Hong Kong: Welcoming the Year of the Dragon As the Year of the Dragon draws near, Hong Kong is bustling with activity as citizens prepare to celebrate the Spring Festival with family and friends. Enjoying the festive atmosphere, shoppers flock to the Mong Kok flower market to pick up blooms signifying good luck and prosperity for their homes as well as some traditional treats and dried seafood. While others head to the Lunar New Year fair at Victoria Park to browse stalls selling traditional decorations and gifts. The news.gov.hk team wishes our readers good health and prosperity in the Year of the Dragon. This story has been published on: 2024-02-09. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. China's Tianjin Port sees record high container throughput in January Xinhua) 09:22, February 09, 2024 An aerial drone photo taken on Feb. 3, 2024 shows a container terminal of Tianjin Port in north China's Tianjin Municipality. Tianjin Port, located on the coast of the Bohai Sea, is a major shipping point in north China. (Xinhua/Zhao Zishuo) TIANJIN, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- North China's Tianjin Port achieved a container throughput of over 1.88 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in January, representing a year-on-year increase of 8.8 percent and setting a new record for monthly container throughput, the port said Thursday. The port also completed a cargo throughput of 41 million tonnes in January, up 2.6 percent year on year. As the maritime gateway of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, Tianjin Port has leveraged its advantages since the beginning of the year, continuously making new progress in route opening, low-carbon development, and smart terminal construction. For example, the port has launched a direct express route for importing cherries from Chile, ensuring the supply of premium fruits for the northern regions during the Spring Festival period. It has also put into operation China's first-ever intelligent monitoring system for marine water environment in ports. According to the Tianjin Port, to date, it has opened up 145 container routes, maintaining trade with more than 500 ports in more than 180 countries and regions around the world. (Web editor: Cai Hairuo, Zhong Wenxing) San Antonio actress Paulina Chavez, pictured in a scene from Netflix series "Fate: The Winx Saga," has joined the cast of Taylor Sheridan's Paramount+ series "Landman." Netflix San Antonio actress Paulina Chavez is among the newly added cast members of Taylor Sheridans upcoming Paramount+ series Landman. Chavez has joined the Yellowstone creators oil rig drama starring Billy Bob Thornton, Variety reports. Landman, set in West Texas, is based on the Texas Monthly oil industry podcast Boomtown. According to Variety, the series is officially described as an upstairs/downstairs story of roughnecks and wildcat billionaires fueling a boom so big, its reshaping our climate, our economy and our geopolitics. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Along with Thornton, the series includes Ali Larter (Legally Blond), Michelle Randolph (1923) and Jacob Lofland (The Son). Demi Moore also has joined the cast, Variety reports. Chavez, who was born in El Paso and grew up in San Antonio, will play Ariana, described as a young mother whose family has suffered a misfortune. Chavez, whose credits include the Netflix comedy The Expanding Universe of Ashley Garcia and the Lifetime holiday movie Feliz NaviDAD with Mario Lopez, recently appeared in the Netflix supernatural drama Fate: The Winx Saga. Workers prepare medical tool for sterilization at Brooke Army Medical Center's Sterile Processing Division, Monday, July 24, 2023. Jerry Lara/San Antonio Express-News On Monday, five sets of contaminated surgical instruments forced surgeons at Brooke Army Medical Center to delay a trauma surgery, according to internal communications reviewed by the San Antonio Express-News. Two of the supposedly sterilized trays were contaminated with strands of hair. Instruments in the other sets had baked-on human blood, bone or tissue from previous patients. By the time a clean set arrived in the OR, the surgery had been delayed at least half an hour, said a BAMC staffer. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The incident came seven months after 19 BAMC surgeons spoke out about how tainted, broken or unusable surgical instruments were potentially endangering patients and weeks after the nations largest military hospital is said to have halted most elective surgeries. The cutbacks were originally scheduled for the first two weeks of the year but are still ongoing, according to two OR workers, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they are not authorized to discuss internal matters at BAMC. Workers prepare medical tools for sterilization at BrookeArmy Medical Center's Sterile Processing Division, Monday, July 24, 2023. Jerry Lara/San Antonio Express-News Contractors work with surgical tool in the Sterile Processing Division of Brook Army Medical Center, Monday, July 24, 2023. Jerry Lara/San Antonio Express-News Brooke Army Medical Center Chief of Operative Services Col. Lance Taylor walks by steamers used to sterilize medical equipment, Monday, July 24, 2023. Jerry Lara/San Antonio Express-News They described the situation as a stand-down, which is when the military ceases operations after accidents or systemic problems. One recent example is the Pentagons operational stand-down of the entire CV-22 Osprey fleet after a fatal crash of the tilt-rotor aircraft off the coast of Japan in November. According to a string of internal messages among staffers reviewed by the Express-News, the original plan called for the Jan. 2-12 stand-down followed by two weeks of limited operations and a return to full capacity on Jan. 29. However, the slowdown appears to have extended into February. Advertisement Article continues below this ad BAMC officials say a stand-down wasnt in effect, maintaining that a shortage of hospital personnel, including workers in the facilitys sterile processing unit, has resulted in fewer elective, or non-emergency, surgeries. BAMC has experienced decreased staffing levels in, for example, operating room and sterile processing technicians, nurses, etc., over the past several years, hospital officials said in a written statement. In another statement, they said, These decreased staffing levels have had an impact on the number of surgical instruments that we can process and the number of surgical cases we can perform at BAMC. Breathing room In July, every surgeon in the hospitals department of orthopedic surgery signed a 10-page memo to BAMC leaders that described 41 days last summer when at least 49 unusable sets of surgical tools reached operating rooms. The contaminated instruments resulted in more than two dozen canceled surgeries and delays of between 90 minutes and 4 hours. One patient was under general anesthesia for an extra three hours. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Express-News exclusively reported on the hospitals sterilization struggles in October. Several hospital employees see the current pause in non-trauma surgeries as a move to address the facilitys sterile processing problems by giving the units workers breathing room to catch up on sterilizing dirty instrument sets and to re-train on proper cleaning techniques. The slowdown is also easing the burden on chronically understaffed departments. Surgical tools are seen in the sterile side of the Sterile Processing Division at Brooke Army Medical Center, Monday, July 24, 2023. Jerry Lara/San Antonio Express-News I think theyre trying to get caught up, said a staffer who has worked at BAMC for more than 10 years. I think theyre trying to make sure that they can manage the work. Another OR source, whos also worked at BAMC for more than a decade, said hospital leadership seems to be taking things seriously. Advertisement Article continues below this ad They are admitting there is/was a problem to all of the surgical services now, the person said. The downside is that some patients will have to wait longer for non-emergency surgery or be referred to a different hospital. BAMC officials say they are taking advantage of a less busy time of year to provide supplementary training for staffers across the hospital. We did not stop providing elective surgical care. Rather, we deliberately prioritized urgent and emergent surgical care during a period of low elective surgery demand in order to provide opportunities for our staff to remain fully trained, officials said. BAMC continues to provide a full range of scheduled and elective surgeries. They said December and January are historically a period of decreased patient demand for elective surgical care due to school holidays, vacation and holiday travel. Advertisement Article continues below this ad They did not answer questions submitted by the Express-News, including whether any elective surgeries had been delayed. Touted as the Armys premiere medical facility, BAMC is the services sole Level 1 trauma center and operates the Defense Departments only burn treatment facility. The hospital underwent a $724 million expansion more than a decade ago and now has 425 military and civilian inpatient beds. BAMC and University Hospital in the South Texas Medical Center are the regions only Level 1 trauma centers. They handle all aspects of care for the most severe injuries and illnesses for patients across a 22-county region. The American College of Surgeons reverified BAMC as a Level 1 trauma center in 2022, but its review did not assess the facilitys sterile processing operations. In 2022, the hospital earned the Joint Commissions Gold Seal after an evaluation that did look at its sterilization of surgical instruments. Neither the commission, which accredits more than 22,000 health care organizations and programs across the country, nor BAMC provided details of the evaluation of the hospitals sterile processing operations. Following the Express-News October story on the sterilization problems, the Joint Commission re-inspected BAMC and re-validated the facility's accreditation that month. BAMC officials say the facility has increased the amount of trauma care that we have provided to the San Antonio community by over 33% over the past five years and provided care to over 18,000 surgical patients in 2023 alone. Possibility of infection Surgical instruments contaminated with leftover human tissue, called bioburden by doctors in the hospital, can cause deep infections of bones or joints that are slow to develop and can cause lifelong complications and even death if left unaddressed. BAMC said in a statement to the paper last year that leftover tissue is found in only 1% of surgical tools, a rate thats within industry standards and has remained stable over time. No hospital staffer contacted by the Express-News was aware of any cases of infection stemming from contaminated tools at the facility. Hospital officials didnt answer a question about whether BAMC had seen such infections. We closely monitor our surgical outcomes and report all infections that meet National Healthcare Safety Network criteria, they said. The NHSN, an arm of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tracks infections caught by patients at health care facilities. A source said that during a Dec. 14 meeting, Army Col. Mark Stackle, BAMCs commander, presented slides that showed rates of tools contaminated with human tissue were much higher than previously reported. There was a huge blip in May, June, July, up to like 4% ballpark, the source said. Not the less than 1% (they) quoted you. Army Col. Mark Stackle, commander of Brooke Army Medical Center Courtesy U.S Dept. of Defense The CDC reports that dirty surgical instruments cause infections in 1 to 3% of surgical patients in the United States each year. Such infections increase the risk of death by as much as elevenfold, and the complications they create cost the national health care system $3.3 billion annually. In October, U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro, D-San Antonio, called the incidents of tainted surgical tools at BAMC horrifying and sent a letter to the hospitals leadership seeking answers by Nov. 17. BAMC officials met with his office in late January, according to a Castro staffer, who described the conversations as ongoing, adding that Castro still has concerns. In a written statement, Castro said hes reached out to BAMC and Defense Department leaders to express his concerns and offer his help to permanently fix any systemic issues at BAMC. BAMC is an important part of San Antonios health care system and serves thousands of active-duty service members, veterans and civilians every year. Patients need to have full confidence in the quality and safety of their care, he said. I hope BAMC leadership will be open and transparent about their renewed efforts to restore public trust and provide patients with the highest standard of care. Staffing problems While hospitals around the country are battling staffing shortages, the problems have hit the military health care system, including BAMC, especially hard. A Government Accountability Office report, released in January 2023, found that numerous factors combined to create the shortage including noncompetitive pay, COVID-19 requirements, limited labor pools and DOD hiring restrictions. The report looked at 24 military health care facilities, not including BAMC. Eight reported staffing shortages as high as 38% meaning nearly 4 in every 10 positions were open. These included large hospitals similar to BAMC, such as Madigan Army Medical Center in Washington, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth in Virginia and Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany. BAMC leaders said their facility has had fewer nurses, operating room technicians, sterile processing technicians and other staffers than it needs over the past several years. However, they did not provide staffing numbers. One OR source said that while the hospital has a high number of surgeons, it doesnt have enough operating room nurses to run all the rooms at full capacity. Were trying to do the work with a fraction of the staff, the person said. BAMC said that in light of the shortages, we initiated multiple actions last summer to include a comprehensive review of our internal processes. During our ongoing review, we ensured that every member of the staff, including surgeons, nurses, operating room technicians and sterile processing technicians, remained current on all the most up-to-date, evidence-based recommendations from various national professional medical societies, they said. Brook Army Medical Center Chief of Operative Services Col. Lance Taylor, right, explains the operation of the Sterile Processing Division, Monday, July 24, 2023. Jerry Lara/San Antonio Express-News The orthopedic surgeons memo called for an elective procedure stand-down in July. The department halted its elective procedures in November and December before the hospital-wide cutbacks. The surgeons hoped that performing fewer surgeries would help the sterile processing department catch up on cleaning dirty instrument sets. However, with the stand-down apparently continuing, at least one OR staffer is concerned about surgeons' ability to hone their skills, known in health care parlance as maintaining competency. The person said that surgeons who once operated between eight and 16 times a month may now get up to six surgeries if theyre lucky and dont have dirty sets (of surgical instruments). BAMC commanders have not publicly addressed the concerns the surgeons raised in their July memo. At the time, the surgeons noted a backlog of greater than 400 unprocessed sets of surgical tools meaning they hadnt been sterilized. BAMC didnt verify that number, but according to staffers, the hospital was considering bringing in an outside contractor to help the sterile processing department. Some thought the hospital would bring in mobile sterilization trailers. However, BAMC said it has not requested such support. The surgeons continue to file Patient Safety Reports for each problem with surgical instruments. BAMC officials declined to offer any information or statistics about the forms, saying the data is sensitive, confidential and privileged. The hospital said its health care providers proactively inform their patients of any issue that could potentially elevate risks associated with their care. OR staffers report that theyve seen fewer cases of contaminated surgical instruments since last summer. One noted, That makes sense, though were not doing the volume. By Gram Slattery HILTON HEAD ISLAND, South Carolina (Reuters) - These are testing times for Nikki Haley. The ex-envoy to the U.N. has been abandoned by allies and become an outsider in her own party. She has lost a primary where she was the only name on the ballot. The storm has come to her doorstep, with her home targeted by "swatting" hoaxes. Haley is still standing, for now, defying seemingly impossible odds to stay in the race against Donald Trump to become the Republican presidential nominee in the 2024 election. Rob Godfrey, who served as a high-ranking Haley aide when she was governor of South Carolina from 2011 through 2017, said she enjoyed situations when she had her back against the wall. "Ultimately, this was going to be a race that was going to pit her against Donald Trump," he added. "I think she's comfortable in that role as an underdog, even if the political class lined up against her." Reuters spoke to eight people close to Haley, including senior campaign operatives and donors, who nonetheless spoke of a sense of betrayal within her team about her loss of support within the Republican Party in recent weeks. Some people within and close to the campaign feel increasingly isolated by a hostile party, according to the people interviewed, most of whom requested anonymity to speak frankly. One aide - describing the mood at team HQ after almost all the Republican congressional delegation in her home state of South Carolina endorsed Trump - said it felt as if F-16 fighter jets were circling overhead. Haley's team did not respond to a request for comment. The 52-year-old's reaction in recent days to the rising chorus of Republican voices demanding she pull out to leave Trump unopposed has been to unleash her strongest attacks to date on the former president after months of holding back. On the trail, she has blasted Trump - who dismisses her as a "bird-brain" - for spending $50 million of campaign money on legal fees and for throwing "tantrums". Her campaign has branded him a "chicken" for refusing to debate her, the "king of hypocrisy" and an old man way past his prime. Haley has also sought to turn the tables on the 77-year-old former president by casting herself as the outsider resisting the Republican establishment. "All those congressional members around him are the same ones that haven't done anything for us," she said to cheers at a campaign event in the South Carolina town of Hilton Head last week as she prepared to contest the state primary on Feb. 24, where she trails by more than 30 percentage points. "Trump can have 'em." 'THIS IS GOING TO BE MESSY' The pressure on Team Haley, after heavy primary defeats in Iowa and New Hampshire last month, ratcheted up in Nevada on Tuesday when Haley was trounced by a "none of these candidates" option in a primary that Trump didn't contest. She still hasn't shown signs of cracking, though, insisting she would stay in the race for the White House for "the long haul." Her campaign has rolled out leadership teams in at least five states - Alaska, Massachusetts, Idaho, Utah and Washington - that do not vote until March. "Just know, I'm not going anywhere," she said at a campaign event on Wednesday. "I'm in this for the long haul. And this is going to be messy. And this is going to hurt, and it's going to leave some bruises." On Thursday, her campaign announced she would appear at a flurry of events to be held in South Carolina over the weekend and host a rally in Dallas next week. The Nevada blow followed calls from high-ranking Republican officials across the country for Haley to drop out in recent weeks. In South Carolina - where she lives and has her headquarters - most of the state legislature and all but one member of the congressional delegation has endorsed the former president. One Haley campaign operative described the situation on the ground as "awkward," as so many prominent Republicans in the state had thrown their weight behind the former president, leaving Haley's team effectively isolated. The decisions in late January by U.S. Senator Tim Scott and U.S. Representative Nancy Mace, both former Haley allies in South Carolina, to endorse Trump enraged some members of the campaign, according to two people close to Haley. "Everybody has got to sleep with their own decisions," Haley said last week of Scott, whom she first appointed to the U.S. Senate when she was governor. "We'll let him sleep with that." Some staff and donors viewed the Mace endorsement as particularly tough to take, given that Haley had campaigned on her behalf after Trump endorsed Mace's primary opponent in the 2022 congressional election, those people said. During a press conference last week, Mace called Haley "China's favorite governor," a reference to her recruitment of Chinese firms to the state during her time in office. She later accused Haley of raising taxes while she was in office. On top of the political fighting, Haley's family home has been targeted by two swatting incidents, where armed police rushed to the scene after receiving hoax calls about people shot there. Her team has requested U.S. Secret Service protection. DONORS AND TRUMP FLAGS Haley likely has the resources to stay in the race for several more weeks, based on the fundraising figures her campaign has disclosed. Her campaign said on Monday that it had raised $16.5 million in January, including $11.7 million from "grassroots supporters." That is more than it raised in the second and third quarters of 2023. Some major Haley donors have ended their support since her loss to Trump in the New Hampshire primary on Jan. 23 or indicated it will be winding down. An advisor to Reid Hoffman, the billionaire co-founder of LinkedIn, told Reuters he was pausing his support after her New Hampshire loss, while metals magnate Andy Sabin said she needed to drop out. Others, like venture capitalist Tim Draper, have said they are sticking by her. Several of her contributors told Reuters they appreciate her willingness to stand up to Trump, even if her odds are exceedingly long. Others say she needs to keep racking up delegates so she emerges as the back-up plan to face Democratic President Joe Biden in the November general election, in case Trump's legal issues catch up with him. At the recent event in Hilton Head, an affluent seaside resort town popular with vacationers and retirees, a group of demonstrators waved Trump flags outside the restaurant where Haley spoke and a heckler interrupted her speech at one point before being escorted out. Many grassroots backers, however, made it clear they want Haley to stay in the race. While her crowds were notably smaller than those at Trump events, voters filled a high-school auditorium for her rally in Lancaster last week, and the bar where she made her Hilton Head stop was standing room only. One supporter, Patricia Shapiro, a 68-year-old physician, said she was upset that Republican leaders were trying to force Haley from the race after just two states - Iowa and New Hampshire - had cast ballots. "This is supposed to be an election," she said. "This is not supposed to be turning it off after the first two primaries." Another supporter, Kim Barch, said that whether or not Haley wins in South Carolina, she should keep campaigning so voters at least have a choice. "This isn't a coronation," Barch added. "I think she needs to go a little bit further." (Reporting by Gram Slattery; Editing by Colleen Jenkins and Pravin Char) Kyrylo Budanov, the head of the Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraines Defense Ministry and author of some of Ukraines most celebrated attacks, including strikes on the illegal Crimean Bridge, was awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine on Feb. 8. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy awarded him the title one day after he named Oleksandr Syrskyi the job of Ukraines Commander-in-Chief. Budanov was considered a favorite to take the position. "For showing courage and heroism in defending Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as selflessly serving the Ukrainian people, I decree to confer Kyrylo Oleksiyovych Budanov, Lieutenant General, the title of Hero of Ukraine with the award of the Order of the Golden Star" the decree said. Valerii Zaluzhnyi, Ukraines ousted Commander-in-Chief, was also awarded the title Hero of Ukraine. Read also: Zaluzhnyi declined to leave military service for civilian role report 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 SAN DIEGO (KUSI) San Diego business owners gathered on Thursday to discuss the impact of the catastrophic flooding on Jan. 22 and the need for relief tailored to them. Government officials like San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria and County Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Nora Vargas were in attendance to speak with the business owners who were sharing their stories. Watch Ed Lendermans report in the video above. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs Melanie Joly had a phone conversation with her British counterpart David Cameron, during which they discussed security guarantees for Ukraine. Source: European Pravda, citing Melanie Joly on Twitter (X) Quote: "We discussed our collaboration in the Middle East, including the need for hostages to be released and more humanitarian aid to reach Gaza, as well as long-term security commitments to Ukraine." Background: Earlier, Ukraine and Canada held another round of talks on a future bilateral agreement on security assurances, following a joint declaration of support for Ukraine adopted by the G7 countries on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Vilnius. In mid-January, Canada's Ambassador to Ukraine, Natalka Cmoc, stated that Canada had already submitted a draft security agreement for approval to the Ukrainian side, and negotiations could be concluded in weeks. It is known that the United Kingdom became the first country to sign a bilateral security agreement with Ukraine, building on the G7 declaration of support for Ukraine. Support UP or become our patron! To help inform voters, this candidate questionnaire is available without a subscription and may be republished by local publications across North Carolina without any cost. Please consider subscribing to The News & Observer to help make this coverage possible. Name:Michael R. (Mike) Morgan Political party: Democrat Age as of March 5, 2024: 68 Campaign website: www.morganforgovernor.com Current occupation: Associate Justice, Supreme Court of North Carolina (retired) Professional experience: 1979-1980, Research Assistant, Attorney Generals Office; 1980-1989, Staff Attorney, Attorney Generals Office; 1989-1994, Administrative Law Judge, North Carolina Office of Administrative Hearings; 1994-2004, District Court Judge, Wake County; 2004-2016, Resident Superior Court Judge, Wake County; 2016-2023, Associate Justice, Supreme Court of North Carolina. Education: Graduate of the New Bern, NC, public school system; Bachelor of Arts degree, Duke University; Juris Doctor degree with honors, North Carolina Central University School of Law What offices have you run for or held before? Have you had any other notable government or civic involvement? District Court Judge, Superior Court Judge, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of North Carolina. Life member of the NAACP, Life member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., member, Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, Inc. What do you think is the biggest issue in North Carolina that you would be able to shape if elected? Education. As a member of the Supreme Court of North Carolina who twice participated in the landmark Leandro decisions, my intimate familiarity with the cases constitutional requirement of the opportunity for a sound, basic education for all North Carolina public school students would afford me the ability to utilize my judicial awareness of Leandro to work, as governor, with the legislature to satisfy the cases mandates, thus uniquely invoking all three branches of our state government. What do you think is or is not working well under the current governor? If not, how would you change it? An ability to work effectively with the legislature. The current governor does not astutely engage with legislative leaders. I would utilize my abilities as governor to establish collegial and respectful relationships with all legislators, just as I did with all of my judicial colleagues on the Supreme Court of North Carolina, and thereby better enable the prospect of mutually beneficial outcomes from North Carolina government. What should be done to address staff vacancies in state government? Conduct a comprehensive audit to evaluate the need to fill these vacancies and, where appropriate, allow unnecessary positions which are vacant to lapse. Thereafter, aggressively and adeptly recruit attractive candidates for state government employment to fill the remaining vacancies through initial and periodic incentives, both financial and non-financial. In what areas, if any, do you believe state government is wasting taxpayer money? The legislatures recent creation of 10 special superior court judgeships so that the legislature could grant itself the novel authority to appoint new judges to be positioned to review legislative actions, when there is already a capable and ample number of judges, wastes taxpayer money in the numerous areas which are adversely impacted through this upheaval of the separation of powers in state government. What would you do to strengthen public schools? I would eliminate the allowance of public school funds to be transferred to private schools via vouchers upon the transfer of public school students to private schools. I would also raise the salaries of public school teachers and administrators to levels consistent with the national average, while offering financial and non-financial incentives to retain valued educators. The governor of North Carolina will be charged with bringing new business and jobs to the state. How would you pitch North Carolina to them? North Carolina is a state which is rich with a capable and dedicated workforce, a rapidly modernizing and extensive transportation infrastructure, the best conglomeration of institutions of higher learning, nationally recognized schools, world-renowned hospitals and medical providers, a wonderful climate, breathtaking scenery, hospitable folks, and a valued quality of life in which all families and citizens can thrive. Would you sign a bill allowing additional casinos and legalizing video gambling machines, and why or why not? No. These proposals are not advantageous, sustainable economic development mechanisms by which to uplift our states communities, especially in rural North Carolina where these structures and devices are proposed for the expansion of gambling. Our rural communities deserve economic development plans designed to propel meaningful opportunities for growth and prosperity through desirable industries, businesses, and high-paying jobs To help inform voters across the state, this candidate questionnaire is available to be republished by local publications in North Carolina without any cost. Please consider subscribing to The News & Observer to help make this coverage possible. Name: C. Robert Brawley Political party: Republican Age as of March 5, 2024: 79 Campaign website and/or social media links: www.RobertBrawley.net Current occupation: Insurance Professional experience: Lifetime insurance agent, CLU, 29 years, NC House Insurance Committee Education: BS Engineering, NC State, CLU, Command and General Staff College What offices have you run for or held before? Have you had any other notable government or civic involvement? 20 years, NC House; 1996 National Republican Legislator of the Year What do you think is the biggest issue in North Carolina that you would be able to shape if elected? Reworking the insurance rating system to be more consumer friendly and reshaping the N.C. Department of Insurance to provide better service to the public. What do you think is or is not working well under the current office holder? If not, how would you change it? The insurance rating system is broken. We had a system since 1977 that helped keep rates as some of the lowest in the nation. In 2019, that changed and since then we have increased our rates faster than 15 other states, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Service has been slow and often not responsive. Training and a better attitude toward service. I would enjoy discussing; there is much more. What should be done to address staff vacancies in your agency and in state government as a whole? Training, better support for those who do their job. Is there an issue on which you disagree with your party? What is your position on that issue? Not that I am aware of. Should the insurance commissioner also hold the role of state fire marshal? Why or why not? Communications should be open but the importance of both positions require the full attention of the head and therefore separate individuals. What would be your approach to negotiating insurance rate increases with the North Carolina Rate Bureau? With the support of actuaries and legal counsel, review the assumptions and risk and rewards. Then negotiate for rates that are balanced and fair to both the consumer and the company, as the law requires. Salary of executives would be considered in reviewing profitability of the company. (FOX40.COM) The seat for one of Californias geographically-largest Congressional Districts is up for election and first-time Congressman Kevin Kiley is looking to win another term. Following redistricting in 2022, Californias 3rd Congressional District covers Sacramento, Placer, Nevada, Butte, Sierra, Plumas, Alpine, El Dorado, Mono, Yuba and Inyo counties. Around 761,000 residents live in the district, with Placer Countys over 300,000 residents accounting for the majority of the districts population. Those running in this years election include; Congressman Kevin Kiley (R), Jessica Morse (D) and Robert Smith (Non-Party Preference). Californias primary election is around the corner: Heres the key dates, things to know Robert Smith Smith is a Northern California native and a U.S. Army veteran who served in the Global War On Terror, where he was deployed for three tours in the Middle East before medically retiring, according to Smiths campaign site. Following his service in the Army, Smith began working with the U.S. Department of State Diplomatic Security Programs as a Director. Smith was also one of three founders of a security company in the Bay Area and Sacramento region that provided services for a multitude of clients. The business closed during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Smiths campaign site. Bringing common sense, trust and confidence back into the political world is what Smith says he is looking to accomplish, along with reducing the influence of major donors, lobbyists, corporations, and special interest groups. Sacramento-area key races in the March 2024 primary election Jessica Morse Morse has worked in several wildfire prevention positions including Deputy Secretary for Forest and Wildland Resilience at the California Natural Resources Agency and last year was appointed to the U.S. Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission. According to her campaign, Morse is a fifth-generation Northern Californian whose ancestors crossed the Sierra on covered wagons. For the last four years, I have worked on the frontline of Californias wildfire crisis, helping build a wildfire resilience program to protect communities, Morse said. But, given the scale of federal land in this district, we wont make progress without increasing and expediting federal resources. These candidates and measures will be on the Placer County primary election ballot Kevin Kiley Prior to being elected to his first term in Congress, Kiley served on the California State Assembly for District 6 from Dec. 5, 2015 to Nov. 30, 2022. Kiley was born in Sacramento and graduated from Granite Bay High School in Placer County before attending Harvard University and Yale Law School. He also worked as an adjunct professor at the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law in Sacramento. During his time in the State Assembly and in his current Congressional seat, Kiley has garnered attention for his attacks against California Governor Gavin Newsom. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40. CANTON James "Jim" Benekos made it clear when he was hired as Canton's city engineer that he would hold the post only temporarily until a successor was ready. Now, two years later, Benekos says his time is up. Benekos, an engineer since 1985, has notified city leaders that he plans to step down as city engineer, effective Feb. 24. He will stay with the department as a senior engineer, earning $116,850. Assistant City Engineer Chris Barnes will be promoted to city engineer. Service Director John Highman Jr. lauded Benekos, who had been working in the city's water department, for stepping in to lead the engineering department in April 2022 when Dan Moeglin left to become the executive director of the Stark County Park District and the city struggled to find a successor. Highman said he's also grateful that Benekos is willing to remain with the department where he can continue to lend his expertise on city projects. Although (Benekos') tenure as city engineer has been relatively short, his impact has been great, Highman said. Hes a fantastic engineer who is super creative. Benekos, who previously served as the city engineer for North Canton, Massillon and Norwalk, oversaw the relocation of a city salt dome that had been sitting atop an aquifer, the expansion of the city impound lot and the construction of the sanitation departments building on 30th Street NE. He also helped to realign the departments organizational structure, including creating a clear second-in-command and successor to the engineer. Previously, three employees held the title of assistant engineer and each managed a separate aspect of the department. "Its been great," Benekos said. "I was ready to retire and wasnt looking for (a new job). But the people there are just super to work with." He spoke highly of Barnes as his successor, saying he's watched Barnes' confidence grow as he's taken over more administrative tasks. "Chris is very capable and ready to take over," he said. Chris Barnes is Cantons new city engineer Chris Barnes, who has worked for the Canton City Engineering Department since 2006, will become Canton's city engineer on Feb. 25. He succeeds James Benekos, who will become a senior engineer for the department. Barnes, who has been in engineering since 1996 and with the Canton Engineering Department since 2006, admits he wasnt ready to take over the department when Moeglin left. As one of three assistant engineers, the Lake Township resident specialized in stormwater projects and had little experience in the other aspects of the engineering department when he was tapped briefly as interim city engineer. When I first stepped in as interim city engineer two years ago, it was nerve-wracking, said Barnes, who previously worked for the Stark County Engineers Office, Stark County Regional Planning Commission and ARCADIS. I felt overwhelmed. I felt unworthy. Over the past two years, Barnes, who was promoted to second-in-command under the department's restructuring, has broadened his responsibilities within the department, including taking over the tracking of the various revenue sources and how they apply to the department's different projects. Ive gained the experience and confidence, and its gotten to the point that I feel ready to do this, said Barnes, who will earn $120,000 a year as engineer. Barnes said he looks forward to working with Mayor William V. Sherer II on projects to help boost the appearance and functionality of neighborhoods. Another goal is to lead the engineering staff with clear expectations and consistency to put them in the best position to serve the city well. I love working for Canton and I plan to retire from here, Barnes said. Im excited by the opportunity. Highman is confident that Barnes' transition to engineer will be seamless. Hes more than ready to step in, Highman said. Chris is going to do great. Reach Canton Repository staff writer Kelli Weir at 330-580-8339 or kelli.weir@cantonrep.com. This article originally appeared on The Repository: James Benekos to step down as Canton engineer, Chris Barnes promoted DOVER A Dover man was one of the five U.S. Marines who died in a routine military helicopter training flight outside of San Diego. Capt. Jack Casey, a 26-year-old CH-53E helicopter pilot, was confirmed to be one of the victims on Friday by the Marine Corps, and New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu. He was a 2015 graduate of St. Thomas Aquinas High School, a private Catholic school in Dover. Capt. Jack Casey gave his life while serving his country," Sununu said in a prepared statement. Valerie and I are deeply saddened as we mourn the loss of these five Marines. Capt. Jack Caseys death is a profound loss for his family, his community, New Hampshire, and the country. I have directed all flags on all public buildings and grounds in the state of New Hampshire to fly at half-staff on the day of interment. Casey commissioned in the Marine Corps on May 16, 2019 and was promoted to the rank of captain on Sept. 1, 2023, according to Sununu's office. During his service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal. Dover Mayor Bob Carrier offered his condolences to Casey's family. I absolutely feel terrible. The Caseys are an old family name in the city of Dover, he said Friday. There are many, many Caseys and my heart goes out to the family. From the point of view of the city of Dover, its a tragic loss. Capt. Jack Casey of Dover, New Hampshire, was one of five Marines killed in a helicopter crash near San Diego. The four other male Marines identified as victims of the crash were Lance Cpl. Donovan Davis, 21; Sgt. Alec Langen, 23; Capt. Benjamin Moulton, 27; and Capt. Miguel Nava, 28. The Marine helicopter vanished late Tuesday night on its way back to Miramar air station in San Diego from Creech Air Force Base, the Associated Press reported. The craft was discovered Wednesday morning near the mountain community of Pine Valley. The military confirmed Thursday that all five Marines were killed when their helicopter went down during stormy weather, and efforts were underway to recover their remains, which will take weeks because of the rough terrain and weather, said Col. James C. Ford, operations officer with 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. In the meantime, Marines are staying with the remains round-the-clock to adhere to their ethos of never leaving any Marine behind. The military is investigating the crash. St. Thomas Aquinas High School President Paul Marquis spoke about Casey Friday. The entire STA community is saddened and heartbroken over the loss of Capt. Casey, he said. He meant a great deal to the community here. His entire family was part of Catholic education here on the Seacoast. He had his entire life ahead of him. He lived a life of service and mission to others, and it's so sad to see someone with such a bright future lose his life here at such a young age. Teachers and school staff members who remember Casey swapped anecdotes about him on Friday, he said. He was kind. He loved life. He really just had such a positive impact on everyone and even from just talking to some of the folks down at (Saint Mary Academy) where he went, we all just have shared such joyful stories, Marquis added. We certainly are offering our support and will be offering whatever we can to the family moving forward. Qiayra Randolph, who was classmates with Casey at St. Thomas, was stunned to hear of his death. This devastating loss has left me speechless. Between his contagious energy and silly antics that made us all break out in laughter, Ill remember him fondly, she said. My condolences to his family and everyone else who loved him. Jack will truly be missed. Former St. Thomas science teacher Bill Dinan said Friday he had been following news coverage of the Marines fatal crash but never expected to know one of the victims. Hearing Casey's name "sadly really hit home," he said. I remember Jack so fondly as a kid who always had a smile and a warm greeting for everyone. In my honors physics class he was a natural leader as well as a top student. He was a young man who had an unlimited future," Dinan said. "The last time I saw Jack was a few years ago when he was in college. We bumped into each other on the street in Portsmouth and he was telling me how excited he was to get commissioned as an officer and serve his country. St. Mary Academy of Dover, a grades K-8 private Catholic school, issued a statement about the passing of Casey, who graduated in 2011. "It is with heavy hearts that we inform our community of the passing of one of our former students, Jack Casey, while bravely serving our country as a member of the United States Marines," the school posted on its Facebook page. "Jack was not only a dedicated student during his time with us but also a courageous individual who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation's freedoms. Jacks unwavering commitment to service and bravery exemplifies the values we hold dear in our community." "During this difficult time, our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Jack's family, friends, and fellow Marines. We recognize the profound loss felt by all who knew and loved him, and we stand together in honoring his memory," the school's statement adds. "May we never forget the sacrifice of Jack Casey and all those who have given their lives in service to our country." More: Names of 5 Marines killed in California helicopter crash identified Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-New Hampshire, reacted to Casey's death on social media. "Im deeply saddened to hear of the loss of Capt. Jack Casey, a U.S. Marine from Dover," she said. "My thoughts are with his family and loved ones as we honor his heroic service and sacrifice on behalf of our nation." On Thursday, President Joe Biden shared that the military aircraft was traveling from Nevada to California in a routine mission. "Our service members represent the very best of our nationand these five Marines were no exception," Biden's statement read in part. "Today, as we mourn this profound loss, we honor their selfless service and ultimate sacrificeand reaffirm the sacred obligation we bear to all those who wear the uniform and their families." The five Marines were all assigned to Miramars Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing at Air Station Miramar in California. We have been confronted with a tragedy that is every service familys worst fear, said Lt. Col. Nicholas J. Harvey, commanding officer of HMH-361. Our top priority now is supporting the families of our fallen heroes, and we ask for your respect and understanding as they grieve. The Flying Tigers family stands strong and includes the friends and community who have supported our squadron during this challenging time. We will get through this together. Jack Casey's death preceded by other NH soldiers perishing in military training flights Casey is the second U.S. military service member from New Hampshire to die in a helicopter crash in three months. In November, Army Staff Sgt. Tanner Grone, a 25-year-old Gorham resident, was one of five service members who died aboard a UH-60 helicopter that crashed in the eastern Mediterranean Sea during an air refueling training mission. In June 2022, Marine Corps Capt. Nicholas Losapio, an Exeter High School graduate who grew up in Kensington, was one of five Marines who died in a California aircraft crash, also as part of a training mission. USA TODAY reported the CH-53E Super Stallion has been involved in several deadly incidents, in addition to the crash that took Casey's life. In April 2018, four crew members were killed when their CH-53E Super Stallion crashed a few miles from the U.S.-Mexico border. The helicopter was also with the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing out of the Miramar air station in San Diego. Two years earlier, 12 Marines died when two Super Stallion helicopters collided off the coast of Oahu in Hawaii. In 2005, 31 people died when a CH-53E crashed in Iraq during a sandstorm. Rich Martindell, a former aircraft accident investigator in the Air Force, told USA TODAY the accident rate of CH-53 helicopters is more than double that of other Marine aircraft. He said that from 1984 to 2008, the CH-53 had an average of 5.96 accidents per 100,000 hours of flight, while other helicopters had an average of 2.26 per 100,000 hours. Fatal crashes in helicopter training flights have been frequent across the U.S. military. The U.S. Government Accountability Office reported there were 298 Army and Air National Guard helicopter accidents in training flights from 2012 to 2021, and approximately 45 were deemed "serious," meaning they involved death, permanent disability, extensive hospitalization or property damage of $500,000 or more. In April 2023, the Associated Press reported 14 soldiers had died and three were injured in a series of crashes in the first few months of last year. Reporting from USA TODAY and the Associated Press is used in this story. This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Capt. Jack Casey of Dover NH dies in Marines helicopter crash A utopia-like property has landed on the real estate market for a pretty penny. Or, rather, more than a few pretty pennies. The 22,800-square-foot residence is actually the most expensive residential home for sale in the entire country, a news release said. Exterior of the remarkable home Dawn McKenna Group The property, which is in Gordon Pointe, a gated community in Naples, Florida, is listed for $295 million. One of the reasons that were so excited about Gordon Pointe is that it provides exactly the type of compound our clientele of luxury buyers want, Leighton Candler, founder of The Leighton Candler Team, Corcoran, said in the release. They love seclusion, they love privacy, and they love being on the water. Gordon Pointe gives you all the benefits of being on an island without being isolated from the rest of the world, making this an exceedingly rare and exceptional property. Whats remarkable about this property is that it includes a private 231-foot yacht basin, a primary house and two guest houses, the listing on Coldwell Banker Realty says. The estate was the home of financier John Donahue and his wife Rhodora, who paid $1 million in 1985 after finding the land. Over the next decade, the Donahues amassed roughly 60 acres, where they built a beachfront retreat for themselves and their burgeoning family of 13 children and 84 grandchildren, their son Bill Donahue told the Wall Street Journal. The property is considered about as rare as a unicorn, the release noted. The listing is held by Coldwell Banker Realtys Dawn McKenna Group, in partnership with The Leighton Candler Team of Corcoran and Savills Rory McMullen. Naples is about 45 miles south of Fort Myers. Oscar Silvas, 63, was struck and killed by a vehicle in Schertz on Thursday, police said. kali9/Getty Images/iStockphoto A 63-year-old San Antonio man was struck and killed by a vehicle early Thursday on the Northeast Side. According to the Schertz Police Department, officers responded to a vehicle collision around 6 a.m. in the 5800 block of Schertz Parkway. They later identified the man killed as Oscar Silvas. Advertisement Article continues below this ad According to a preliminary investigation, Silvas was a flagger for a nearby business and was attempting to block the roadway. The driver of the vehicle, who has not been identified, was southbound on Schertz Parkway when the man was hit. Police said the driver did not see the Silvas until the collision occurred and stopped immediately to help. Schertz Parkway was temporarily closed with support from the Guadalupe County Precinct 3 Constables Office. Police will determine whether criminal charges will be filed when investigators conclude their investigation. An interrogation video of a Russian soldier captured by Ukrainian fighters exposes Russias lies to its soldiers once again, Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi shared on Telegram on Feb. 8. The Russian soldier identified himself as Baliev Shamil Zakirovich, a 35-year-old private from the Republic of Bashkortostan, serving as a grenade launcher in the 4th Motorized Rifle Brigade. Read also: Ukrainian commandos snatch and seize key Russian position in daring heights operation video Zakirovich said he signed a contract on Nov. 2, 2023 due to financial difficulties and expected a rear deployment. Instead, he was sent to the frontline as "cannon fodder" without receiving the promised payment. He detailed the regular mistreatment of privates, including constant beatings by the command. Everyone was kept in fear and was threatened to be "ended," the invader said. He witnessed numerous instances of destroyed equipment and the corpses of fellow Russians while stationed at the frontline positions. Read also: Russian mass surrender in Zaporizhzhya sector after inhumane treatment and heavy losses Zakirovich talked about enduring constant shelling, Ukrainian drone attacks, and water supply problems, mentioning resorting to drinking their own urine due to scarce resources. 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 hard landing of a CareFlight helicopter in July 2022 has prompted the medical personnel who ride in those sophisticated air ambulances to start the process of forming a union they say will protect them when they are involved in such incidents. >> SPECIAL REPORT: How to protect your ride as car thefts skyrocket The helicopter -- one of four in the Premier Health fleet in addition to five mobile units -- was headed to a fatal car accident in Butler County when investigators with the National Transportation Safety Board said the bird hit wires and fell 30 to 50 feet to the ground. According to the NTSBs newly released final report on the incident, the pilot was descending when the helicopter hit one high-voltage wire and made a hard landing. The pilot and two crew members suffered minor injuries. Firefighters on scene warned the CareFlight pilot about the wires, the NTSB report found, but the pilot said he could not see them. Air Methods, which operates CareFlight helicopters, partners with NTSB investigators to identify causal factors and develop corrective actions that will improve overall safety. The purpose of Air Methods safety program is to prevent accidents like this from ever occurring, according to a statement on behalf of Air Methods. We are committed to ensuring that the lessons learned from this event will help us avoid future accidents, the Air Methods statement said. According to the CareFlight Air & Mobile Association website, because an injury to one is an injury to all, we seek stronger individual and family support in the event of death, disability, or illness. When asked directly, leadership has been unable to provide a single document showing that CareFlight staff is covered in the event of an aircraft crash. Premier Health confirmed that the Ohio Nurses Association filed a representation petition with the National Labor Relations Board, seeking to represent employees in the positions of all CareFlight registered nurses employed at all Miami Valley CareFlight locations and all CareFlight medics employed at all Miami Valley CareFlight locations. The CareFlight fleet carries more than 70 male and female medical personnel. Our representatives will work with the NLRB as they process the petition, the statement from Premier said. We understand that this will include a review of the role groups in the petition, the resolution of any related issues, and the scheduling of a secret ballot election. In that election, our employees will have the opportunity to vote on whether they would like to be represented for purpose of collective bargaining by the ONA. We remain committed to providing our employees with the education, mentorship, leadership, and resources needed to be exceptional caregivers, and we believe there are important reasons to continue to work directly with our employees instead of through collective bargaining. Accordingly, we support our employees federally protected right to choose whether or not they wish to be represented by the ONA through the secret ballot election that will be conducted by the NLRB. The ONA, in Hilliard, Ohio, issued the following statement Thursday afternoon:. The CareFlight nurses and paramedics are united in their journey to unionize with the Ohio Nurses Association, Rick Lucas, BSN, RN, CCRN, ONA president and executive director said in a prepared statement. This union is more than a collective effort; its a dynamic platform, empowering nurses and health professionals to assert concerns and ensuring their voices resonate with strength and influence not only at the bargaining table but also at the bedside, Lucas said. The vote whether to join with the ONA, for the purpose of forming a union, is expected to occur in early March. FILE PHOTO: View of the drug product manufacturing laboratory in biologics and sterile injectables, Catalent, in Brussels (Reuters) -Contract drug manufacturer Catalent inched past Wall Street estimates for second-quarter revenue on Friday, days after it agreed to a $16.5-billion buyout offer from Novo Nordisk's parent firm. The New Jersey-based firm is the main supplier of fill-finish work - involving filling and packaging syringes and injection pens in sterile conditions - for Novo's popular weight-loss drug, Wegovy. Catalent's shares were marginally higher at $56.70, compared with Novo's offer of $63.50 per share. "We've been surprised by the continued weakness," said Stephens analyst Jacob Johnson. Catalent also counts Novo rival Eli Lilly, Sarepta Therapeutics, and AstraZeneca among its clients. "Indeed, we remain focused on continuing to serve our valued customers, as we always have," CEO Alessandro Maselli said. After the deal closes, Novo Holdings will sell Catalent's key fill-finish sites in Anagni, Italy, Brussels, Belgium and Bloomington, Indiana, to Novo Nordisk for $11 billion. Lilly's CEO David Ricks told the Financial Times on Tuesday that Novo's proposal raises potential antitrust concerns. "We have a hard time seeing how this transaction reaches the level of antitrust concerns," said Johnson. He said Lilly's concerns likely led to an investigation by the European Union drugs regulator about any impact on availability of drugs processed at Catalent sites. Quarterly revenue was $1.03 billion, just ahead of analysts' expectations of $1.01 billion, according to LSEG data. It took a one-time charge of $9 million due to a fire at one of its facilities. The company reported a quarterly loss per share of 24 cents, compared to estimates of a loss of 2 cents. (Reporting by Sriparna Roy and Bhanvi Satija in Bengaluru; Editing by Pooja Desai) EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) U.S. Customs and Border Protection agriculture specialists working at El Paso area ports of entry will be inspecting flower shipments due to the upcoming Valentines Day holiday which lands on Wednesday, Feb. 14 this year, according to CBP. CBP says agriculture specialists will be tapping and shaking cut flower shipments to make sure that personal and commercial importations are free from insects, pests and diseases that could harm the agricultural and floral industries of the United States. CBP says those who are planning to import flowers and plants from Mexico should advise their florist that the arrangements are destined for U.S. delivery. Some flowers and plant materials commonly found in floral arrangements at southwest border ports of entry are prohibited. Those include chrysanthemums and choisya ternata (a floral filler) due to pest risk, CBP said. CBP also encourages the public to check its website to know which flowers are permissible and which are prohibited or restricted. While a relatively small number of harmful pests are found among the millions of stems inspected by CBP, a single dangerous pest could cause millions of dollars of damage to our nations crops. CBP recommends that people who wish to import flowers, plant materials, and other agricultural items consult the CBP Info Center section on the CBP website before they travel or call (877) 227-5511, CBP said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. COLDWATER The Coldwater Board of Public Utilities wants more help to meet Michigan's new clean energy laws. Wednesday, the board agreed to hire Orlando, Florida's nFront Consulting LLC engineering firm to analyze and advise the city power system on Michigan's recently passed clean energy and climate legislation. Coldwater Board of Public Utilities The two laws signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer require utilities to provide 80% clean energy by 2035 and 100% by 2040. The law commits power providers to 50% renewable energy by 2030 and 60% by 2035. The bills set standards and requirements for renewable clean energy, carbon reductions, and energy waste reduction goals. Clean energy is the generation of energy that does not produce greenhouse gas emissions. Renewable energy is the generation of energy from sources that can be replenished naturally over time. The differences between the two have different implications for reducing global greenhouse gas emissions, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. What qualifies and how to get there is the question. The current legislation on what sources qualify and how much credit is given in each category is unclear to CBPU. CBPU expects in-state green energy credits from interest the city owns in AMP hydroelectric plants on the Ohio River under a 2000 state law. Those plants produced 11% of CBPU power in 2023. Utility director Paul Jakubczak said, "Due to the complexity of these ever-changing energy markets, our staff wishes to seek outside expertise to help supplement our internal resources." CBPU director Paul Jakubczak American Public Power, a joint action agency through the Michigan South Central Power Agency, is making recommendations and setting up future power contracts for local municipal power supplies. Jakubczak wants the consulting firm to "Take all of our data and look at all of our current power supply contracts and determine if we're on the right path." The CBPU director said he wants a report that identifies potential future energy and demand requirements and then considers "associated risks and benefits to the customers" who pay for them in power bills. Board member John Wellet was concerned about the impact of the laws. He asked, "What if businesses and the population start leaving? It's great to be net zero. But what are some of the unintended consequences?" Wellet hopes nFront can answer that question. The open-ended contract estimated cost is around $100,000 for the Integrated Resource Plan. There is no deadline. As a CBPU engineering service contract, there are no bid requirements. Jakubczak said other firms consulted were around the same cost. Subscribe Follow this story. Subscribe to the Daily Reporter. The director said nFront Consulting worked in Michigan and with the Midcontinent Independent System Operator, the grid operator. Jakubczak is familiar with nFront Consulting through his former position as the director of Electric and Gas Systems for Ft. Pierce, Florida. -- Contact Don Reid: dReid@Gannett.com This article originally appeared on Coldwater Daily Reporter: Florida consultants hired by CBPU for Michigan renewable energy bills LAS VEGAS (KLAS) Solutions tackling unexcused absences in Las Vegas valley schools seem to be taking effect, alas the superintendent was reported absent during a school board meeting highlighting a downward trend. Chronic absenteeism in the Clark County School District was at its highest during the COVID-19 pandemic. A robust strategy seemed to be showing positive trends as the first semester of the 2023-2024 school year reported a lower rate than in years past. Solutions tackling unexcused absences were discussed during the CCSD school board meeting on Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. (KLAS) According to the report, the COVID-19 pandemic appeared to cause a spike at school districts across the country: Chronic absenteeism increases from 19-20 to 20-21 Albuquerque Public Schools: 7.2%36.3% Clark County School District: 18.4%33.9% Miami-Dade County Public Schools: 19.7%24.7% Denver Public Schools: 22.6%26% Los Angeles Unified School District: 15.6%18.2% However, CCSD reported a trend of a 7.6% decrease in chronic absenteeism in the first semester of the 2023-2024 school year, according to the plan update. We have additional good news with chronic absenteeism, Dr. Brenda Larsen-Mitchell, CCSD deputy superintendent, said. We are seeing a decrease. The good news fell short of strategy goals, according to the update, as staff continues to focus on implementing a districtwide promotion of student success to incentivize attending school. Mike Barton, CCSD chief college, career, and equity officer, highlighted challenges in the plan update that continue to bog down success. The greatest challenge we had with chronic absenteeism was a problem that crossed over multiple departments, not one single office owned the work, he said. Other obstacles included the lack of coordination of support from multiple agencies and community challenges. Jara submits resignation as Clark County School District superintendent CCSD Board of School Trustee Member Brenda Zamora on Feb. 8, 2024. (KLAS) School Board Trustee Brenda Zamora asked Barton if students who do or do not arrive at school on a bus face different rates of unexcused absences. We saw chronic absenteeism was high for both, Barton answered. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. New research published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Thursday indicates that teens with suspected substance abuse problems are turning to drugs to relax and for mental, emotional and physical relief. The report focused on 15,963 assessments from teens ages 13 to 18 and their responses to online questions about their motivation to use various substances, including marijuana and alcohol. According to the data, 73% of respondents said they use substances to feel mellow, calm, or relaxed, and 50% said they use them to have fun or experiment. In addition, 44% said they use drugs such as marijuana as a sleep aid, and another 44% indicated that drugs help them to stop worrying about a problem or to forget bad memories. The report also found that 40% said they take drugs to cope with depression or anxiety. While most reported that they use substances with friends, half of the respondents who said theyd misused prescription drugs in the past 30 days said they took the substances when alone. Separate studies from the CDC have shown a rise in depression and anxiety among teens in the U.S. as well as unprecedented levels of hopelessness. It might make sense that teens are looking for ways to reduce stress and anxiety, Sarah Connolly, the lead author of the report, told ABC News. Connolly, an epidemic intelligence service officer in the CDCs Division of Overdose Prevention, explained that substance abuse is often linked to depression and anxiety. The research, which is the first of its kind to look into the motivation behind teen substance use, indicates that reducing stress and promoting mental health could help to lessen teens motivation to use drugs, as can educating teens on harm reduction practices. Related... The city of San Antonio offers a handful of ways to get rid of junk and unclutter your life. Monte Bach So, you have unwanted junk piling up in your garage. You can barely open your storage unit because of the stuff packed in there that you have no idea what to do with. Maybe you have neighbors who are (rightfully) complaining about the debris and rubbish in your backyard. You've decided it's time to get rid of the clutter that's making your life difficult. But what can you do? The city of San Antonio has a handful of options to help you make your life easier and maybe make your neighbors happier. If you have questions about any of the following options, call 3-1-1 or 210-207-6000. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Free Landfill Day The citys Solid Waste Management Department allows residents to bring bulky junk to any of three landfills and leave it there for free. Here's your chance to get rid of furniture, old appliances, tires, toilets and a lot more. Curbside brush and bulk collection Twice a year, the city will collect paper, bagged leaves, shrubs, tree branches and woody vines. Plastic bagged leaves, bulky household items, grass clippings, and hazardous waste are among the items not accepted. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Customers will be notified of their collection week seven to 10 days before collection via a door hanger. There are specific guidelines that the door hanger will spell out. For more information, click here. Out-of-cycle brush or bulky collection (Fees apply) Residents may request special collections of brush or bulky items for a fee per cubic yard. Upon requesting the service, the Solid Waste Management Department will send a staff member to offer a free estimate on the cost involved with the collection and disposal of the materials through an out-of-cycle collection. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Once the fee is paid, the city will collect the items within two working days. Bulky waste collection The city operates four bulky waste centers. Synod documents cite examples of vicars being 'hounded out of office' by aggressive congregants, with some parishes having a reputation for 'breaking clergy' - iStock The Church of England will consider banning parishioners who bully their vicars. The proposal comes as a string of devastating and unacceptable instances have emerged in papers submitted to the General Synod, the Churchs lawmaking body, which is set to convene later this month. The papers cite examples of vicars being hounded out of office by aggressive congregants, with some parishes having a reputation for breaking clergy, leaving their vacancies impossible to fill. As a result, Synod will hear measures in favour of legal sanctions for bullying including the possibility of disqualification from holding office within the Church, as well as a new code of conduct for Parochial Church Councils (PCC). The calls for a new code of conduct come amid claims that meetings descend into aggressive, psychologically damaging and physically threatening behaviour with parishioners slamming fists on tables, continually interrupting when others speak, withholding keys to store rooms, blocking each other on email and repeatedly trolling and harassing others by printing out messages after being blocked. The Archdeacon of Blackburn, the Venerable Mark Ireland, called for the Synod to recognise that bullying is unacceptable behaviour within the Church of God, whether by clergy or lay people and for it to be tackled. Mark Ireland, the Archdeacon of Blackburn, says he has been 'inundated with distressing correspondence from clergy and clergy spouses who have been subjected to bullying and harassment' He also warned against the unfairness that arises from clergy being subject to penalties for bullying that include prohibition and removal from office, while there is no means of disqualifying a churchwarden, PCC member or other lay officer who is guilty of bullying from holding office. As a result, he said that they too should be disqualified from holding office. He added that the impact of bullying and harassment can be devastating, on mental health, on physical health, on the breakdown of relationships, and the blighting of local Christian communities. If a churchwarden or lay officer is exercising controlling or bullying behaviour it is not just the priest who is the victim the rest of the PCC and the congregation also experience the same behaviour and are frightened to speak out or stand up to a person who is abusing their power or role. Indeed there are some parishes which bishops are reluctant to recommend to prospective applicants, knowing that a series of previous incumbents have been hounded out of office. He added: I have been inundated with distressing correspondence from clergy and clergy spouses who have been subjected to bullying and harassment At the same time there are many disturbing examples of lay officers bullying other lay members of the congregation. The Revd Dr Sara Batts-Neale, from the Chelmsford Diocese, also called for the new PCC code of conduct, which would consider the possibility of a disciplinary process for removal from the PCC. She warned that some meetings take place in a psychologically unsafe environment for both lay and ordained participants, warning that the imperative to forgiveness can sometimes normalise bad behaviour when it is seen to be consequence free. She added that a PCC meeting should not be a psychologically damaging or physically threatening environment for any participant. Aggressive behaviour in meetings (slamming fists on tables and continually interrupting when others speak) or outside meetings (emailing repeatedly, and when blocked on email, printing and delivering copies of a message). Repeatedly poor behaviours sidetrack meetings, waste the time and energy of all participants, and detract from the churchs ability to share the gospel and nurture disciples, she added. In one parish cited as an example, a PCC member refused to share the keys to the cupboard that stored all the resources for childrens work. Thus, whilst the dispute was ongoing, no childrens work was able to happen. William Nye, the Churchs secretary-general and most senior lay official, said that if evidence showed that there was bad behaviour or unchristian behaviour in parochial church councils, that would be a serious issue. He added that the Church had been looking at encouraging people to treat one another better rather than devising punitive sanctions against bad behaviour. The motions from both the Archdeacon and the Diocese of Chelmsford will be heard and debated at the convening of Synod later this month. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. District Attorney Joe Gonzales held an all-hands meeting with prosecutors and investigators on Thursday to defend his relationship with an Austin-based reform group that seeks to overhaul the justice system and reduce incarceration. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News Bexar County's first assistant district attorney, Christian Henricksen, defended his and DA Joe Gonzales' relationship with an Austin-based reform group that seeks to overhaul the justice system and reduce incarceration. Kaylee Greenlee Beal Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales, in a meeting with hundreds of prosecutors and investigators, offered a spirited defense of his relationship with an Austin-based criminal justice reform group that has privately advised the DA and his top deputy. At a rare all-hands Zoom staff meeting Thursday, Gonzales addressed his ties to the Wren Collective, a consulting firm whose stated goal is to "dramatically decrease the legal systems footprint in this country" and reduce incarceration. Records show the groups founder, Jessica Brand, has had extensive communications with Gonzales and his top deputy, Christian Henricksen, about policy and particular cases since Gonzales took office in 2019. Advertisement Article continues below this ad I want to make clear so that you understand. This group and person has always been about assisting us with messaging and not directing us how to proceed on cases, Gonzales said at one point, according to people who attended the 30-minute meeting. Gonzales didn't field questions but told staff members they could contact him directly with questions or concerns. His defense mirrored what Henricksen, the first assistant DA, told the San Antonio Express-News in an interview earlier that day. Henricksen said he worked with Brand on reforming bail procedures and the handling of trespassing cases involving homeless people. He said he was proud of what they had accomplished in de-emphasizing prosecution of low-level, nonviolent offenses. But the Wren Collective did not influence prosecutorial decisions in any cases, he said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad They helped us a lot, Henricksen said. Jessica, in particular, helped us put together a lot of the information that we needed to inform our decisions on criminal justice reform. Im proud of the work that weve done on criminal justice reform. They helped us get the information that we needed to make good decisions. The interview and Thursday's all-staff meeting came a little over a week after KSAT-12 published a series of stories outlining extensive communications by text message, phone calls and Zoom meetings between the Wren Collective and the district attorneys office. READ MORE: Inside the ground game and Soros effect that took down Nico LaHood Brand, Henricksen, Gonzales and their staff members exchanged hundreds of text messages over the last five years, discussing criminal justice policies, news releases, talking points and media interviews, according to copies of the texts, which were obtained by the Express-News under the Texas Public Information Act. The disclosures prompted questions from members of the legal community about whether it was appropriate for the DA to receive behind-the-scenes advice from an outside group with a pronounced left-of-center agenda. Advertisement Article continues below this ad This week, the lawyer for a former San Antonio police officer charged with aggravated assault in the 2022 shooting of teenager Erik Cantu subpoenaed texts, emails and other communications about the case between the DA's office and the Wren Collective. Brand, in an interview Friday with the Express-News, said she provided her services to Gonzales pro bono. She said her organization receives money from corporate and philanthropic donors, though she declined to name them. Brand did say she has never received funding from groups linked to George Soros, the liberal billionaire whose political action committee donated nearly $1 million to Gonzales' first campaign for DA in 2018. Social and Environmental Entrepreneurs, a California nonprofit that provides support services for the Wren Collective and numerous other groups, has accepted more than $7.5 million from the Soros-founded Foundation to Promote Open Society. But Brand said none of that money was directed to her group. 'No one would bat an eye' Some of the texts raised concern among prosecutors, defense attorneys and others because they appear to show Brand offering legal advice on a handful of high-profile cases, including the shooting of Cantu and the death penalty case against Otis McKane, a San Antonio man accused of killing police officer Benjamin Marconi in 2016. Advertisement Article continues below this ad You could settle that death penalty case right now and no one would bat an eye, Brand told Henricksen via text March 19, 2020, referring to the McKane case. I know, Henricksen responded. Im trying. Henricksen told the Express-News that Brand never offered the DA's office legal advice on any case, including McKane's. He said the office has a capital crime committee of senior prosecutors who weigh the circumstances of capital murder cases and decide whether to pursue the death penalty. The committee makes a recommendation to Gonzales, who has the final say. Henricksen, who opposes the death penalty, said that in the McKane case "there was an opportunity to negotiate a plea bargain with a sentence of life in prison without parole. There were people who recommended that Joe move forward with seeking death," Henricksen said. "There were some people, myself included, who recommended that he accept a plea of life without the possibility of parole. Advertisement Article continues below this ad He said Brands advice in saying you could settle that case now had to do with determining the most advantageous time to disclose a plea agreement to the media. Henricksen said Brand already knew he had advised Gonzales not to seek the death penalty. Shes not trying to influence me because she knows my position on the death penalty, Henricksen said. She knows Joes position on the death penalty. Its just media advice. My position isnt going to be influenced by her, and neither is Joes. I know the wording may not be great, Henricksen added. But the point of the text is, in the event that Joe decides to accept a plea, now would be a decent time to do that. Gonzales ultimately decided to pursue the death penalty against McKane, and a jury sentenced him to death in August 2021. 'Dismiss immediately' Henricksen and Brand also discussed the shooting of Cantu by San Antonio police officer James Brennand on Oct. 2, 2022. Cantu, then 17, was sitting in a maroon BMW, eating a hamburger, outside a McDonald's near a North Side strip mall. Brennand, a probationary officer with seven months on the job, saw the BMW and radioed to headquarters that he recognized it as a stolen vehicle whose driver previously had eluded him. In body camera footage, Brennand is seen approaching the car with his gun drawn, opening the drivers side door and telling a seemingly stunned Cantu, Get out of the car!" He did not identify himself as a police officer. Cantu drove the car in reverse for several feet, hitting Brennands leg with the open car door. The teen then sped toward the exit of the parking lot. Brennand fired at least 10 shots at the car, critically injuring Cantu. Cantu was rushed to University Hospital, where he spent several weeks on a ventilator. He was initially charged with evading arrest and assault on a peace officer. Brennand was charged with aggravated assault by a public servant after an investigation found that he was not in danger of death or serious bodily injury when he shot Cantu. Brennand is awaiting trial. In text messages sent Oct. 7, 2022, five days after the shooting, Brand told Henricksen that she had been thinking about Cantu and the charges against him. My guess is there will be a lot of misinformation out there, Brand wrote. If I were Joe Id probably have a press conference, maybe with the sheriff, explain you are dropping charges (and why they were ever filed), and then that obv the video is extremely disturbing, you cant say more because pending case, but are obv investigating, and you know this incident has harmed public. Im trying to get Joe in the phone now, Henricksen responded. Im going to advise we dismiss immediately. I agree with a press conference. Ill see what he says. Im rejecting the kids cases now, Henricksen texted Brand later that day. Joe wants to do press this afternoon. Henricksen, in the interview with the Express-News, said he already planned to dismiss the charges against Cantu and that Brand knew as much when she texted him. We already knew that the cases against Cantu were not going to be triable cases, and that they would be dismissed, Henricksen said. We had reviewed the evidence that was available to us at the time, including the video, and did not see how we were ever going to be able to convince a jury to convict him on those cases. Around the same time, Henricksen said, Cantus attorney informed him that the teen's parents could spend only limited time with him in the hospital because he was technically in police custody. The attorney asked Henricksen if there was anything the DAs office could do. The doctors werent sure if Erik was going to make it through the night, Henricksen said. We were trying to figure out what we could do, so that the family could be in the room with him. Because I mean, thats what I would want, if I was his family, if that was my kid. Henricksen said the only way to ensure Cantus family could be with him in the hospital was to drop the charges. It didnt have anything to do with Wren or Wrens opinion about the case," Henricksen said. "It was because we knew that the case wasnt going to be provable. Then, we did it quickly so that Eriks family could be in the room with him in the event that he were to die. Wren Collective Brand, a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and Harvard Law School, is a former public defender who worked for the Texas Defender Service, an organization devoted to fighting the death penalty. Before that, she was a staff attorney for the Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia. Brand and Henricksen said they met in 2017 when Brand was researching an article for Slate about a San Antonio murder case that led to a public dispute between Gonzales, then in private practice, and then-District Attorney Nico LaHood. At the time, Brand was legal director for the Justice Collaborative, a legal reform group in Washington, D.C. In that job, Brand "advised elected officials across the country as they tried to proactively implement meaningful change, while leading communication strategies to roll out policies to safely shrink incarceration levels," according to her online professional bio. Brand said she continued to follow the case and Gonzales' subsequent successful campaign against LaHood. At some point, Brand, Gonzales and Henricksen reconnected. "I was really inspired by the stuff Joe said when he ran for office," Brand said. "You know, San Antonio had long suffered from a lot of problems. People were dying in the jail ... who were being held for minor criminal trespassing violations. "Once he was elected, I started to talk to him about what it meant to transition and to overhaul an office, about what people were doing in city councils across the country, what people were doing in district attorney offices across the country, what research shows actually works, about public health solutions to crime. In 2020, Brand founded the Wren Collective, whose mission statement says it "strives to reimagine the way our country approaches criminal justice. "For too long, those with power have weaponized the legal system to take away the rights of vulnerable communities, using fear to justify the mass incarceration of people of color, and now, the marginalization of voters, doctors and librarians, and the increased oppression of other groups including women, trans people, migrants, the unhoused the list grows every day," the statement says. "All the while, the powerful have failed to offer solutions to serious community problems like violent crime and trauma." 'No cost involved' Henricksen said the DA's office regularly seeks advice from outside experts and advocacy groups, such as Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Asked why the office never entered into a formal contract with Brand for her services, Henricksen said he didn't see the point "when there's no cost involved." A free coffee event for veterans event at a downtown Myrtle Beach restaurant was shut down by the city of Myrtle Beach, and the organizers voiced displeasure with the city on social media. Dirty Myrtle Wing Company, a wing eatery that opened in 2023, was set to have a free coffee for veterans event in collaboration with the Conway, S.C.-based Liberty Brew Coffee Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024. Liberty Brew Coffee is a veteran-focused coffee company that brews different flavors for different United States armed forces branches. Liberty Brew Coffee Founder David Steadman said about 20-30 people attended the two-hour event before a City of Myrtle Beach Code Enforcement Officer arrived and told them to cease operations because they lacked a business license. The code enforcement officer shut us down (and) said we couldnt even if it was free coffee because we were not licensed or didnt have a permit, Steadman added. Itd be different. I was actually charging for coffee thats a whole different story because we all know that. So for them to shut us down because of giving away free coffee is kind of bizarre in my mind. Steadman said the enforcement officer then directed him to file for a Myrtle Beach business license, and the citys office helped him with the process. (The city employee) was super nice, super helpful, Steadman added. Steadman says he filed for a permit and was charged $349.50, which included a nine-dollar fine for operating without a license in Myrtle Beach. Liberty Brew Coffee and Dirty Myrtle Wing Company took to social media about what happened. Dirty Myrtle Wing Company did not return a request for comment before publication. City of Myrtle Beach Director for Public Information Mark Kruea said that the lack of business and mobile vendor licenses was why code enforcement stopped the event and that all businesses operating within city limits need permits. The issue was not with Dirty Myrtle (Wing Company). The issue was with the vendor, Kruea said in an interview with The Sun News. Everything is copacetic. There is no issue. It was a pleasant conversation, from what I understand. So there is no issue. (Liberty Brew Coffee) understand they need a business license. They understand they need a mobile food truck permit. He added requiring business licenses was also a fairness issue. The city of Myrtle Beach has a very competitive business environment here, and all of the other 10,000 businesses have licenses, he added. If my business is required to have a license, so should your business be required to have a license. Despite the delay, Steadman said Liberty Brew Coffee will hold more free coffee events for veterans. Steadman added the next one is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024 again at Dirty Myrtle Wing Company. Im a Marine Corps veteran. Its a veteran-based business, that again, we have a space that is comfortable for them to come in, relax, enjoy themselves, have coffee, He added. Sometimes thats what vets need; they just need somewhere to gather as one. With a clear vision and determination, Jackson State University President Marcus Thompson said in an exclusive interview Thursday with the Clarion Ledger that he is ready to lead Jackson State University toward a brighter future. Since 2000, JSU has had seven presidents including those who served in an interim role. They all came forward with their plans they felt would push JSU forward. So, what will make Thompson's presidency different? He said his approach is to focus on customer care, infrastructure and bridge-building in the coming months, while building off the "success" of his predecessors. As the 13th president, I stand on the shoulders of every president that has come before me. With leadership, I think we take something from where it is and continue to move forward. Great things happened under each administration, Thompson said. For me, my leadership will be focused on doing what's best for Jackson State University. And I believe every president would say that. Jackson State University President Marcus Thompson, in office for just over 70 days, says he sees himself as a servant leader while discussing his position at JSU on Thursday. When considering his vision for JSU, Thompson prefers to hear from all stakeholders in the university to form that vision. Customer Care Thompson said since he has assumed the role as president on Nov. 27, he has hit the ground running. He said he is keeping initiatives in mind that will give students the "North Stars" of his administration a quality educational experience. He said he wants JSU students to receive that educational experience while prioritizing campus safety. When Thompson took the reigns, he not only faced some public backlash regarding his path to presidency but also questions pertaining to the October 2023 death of JSU student, Jaylen Burns. During a Nov. 30 welcoming ceremony, Thompson did not answer many questions about Burns' death, stating it was an ongoing investigation. But he did acknowledge that increasing security on campus was one of his early priorities. In January this year, there have been 12 homicides reported in Jackson. Of those 12 murders, four were committed on the same day. At least five victims were under the age of 25. Murder claims the lives of 12: JPD: Jackson sees 12 homicides in the month of January 2024. Who are the victims? Thompson said he believes crime can play a factor in prospective students determining if they want to enroll at Jackson State or not. Aware of this concern, he said he is working to ensure the safety of students on campus. I've been working very closely with our campus Chief of Police Herman Horton we meet regularly to discuss that issue, Thompson said. We've talked about enhancements as far as adding more cameras, weve added 11 additional officers and we've added more lighting to address blind spots on campus. We have also been working to collaborate with Capitol Police and the Jackson Police Department, because it takes all of us working together to accomplish these goals. We will continue to work toward making our campus even more safe than it is. Infrastructure Jackson State University President Marcus Thompson shares his vision and plans for the university in Jackson on Thursday. A shortage of housing and an aging water system has also contributed to declining enrollment numbers at JSU, Thompson said. (Infrastructure) has been something that's been ongoing through each administration, but its really about prioritizing those things, Thompson said. He said he plans to improve the campus infrastructure and facilities by focusing on recruiting students, starting fundraisers and working alongside the state legislature. According to data released by the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning, student enrollment at JSU was 6,921 in fall 2020. And during a time when some universities struggled to recruit and retain students due to the COVID-19 pandemic, JSU enrollment numbers increased to 7,080 in fall 2021. But in the past two years, the university has seen a decline in enrollment 6,906 in fall of 2022 and 6,564 in the fall of 2023. Jackson Public Schools enrollment down: JPS has drastically declined in enrollment over the past 10 years. See how much To get enrollment numbers moving in an upward trajectory, Thompson said he and JSUs director of facilities have already started the process of seeking funds from the legislature to renovate one of the womens residence halls, Whiteside McAllister. The female dormitory has been offline since 2021 due to maintenance failures and equipment that needs to be repaired. He said the roughly 600-bedspace dorm hall is anticipated to change into a suite-style apartments, allowing for the accommodation of an additional 300 bedspaces. Thompson also said that JSU is also asking for funds to build a new residence hall. In addition to these requests, He said the university is renovating a space called One University Place which is a mixed space that has retail on the first floor and residences upstairs. This will add another estimated beds. We've been aggressively tackling those issues and continuing to assess things each day because it's so critical for enrollment, Thompson said. Bridge building Jackson State University President Marcus Thompson shares his vision for infrastructure, customer care and Going into this legislative session, Thompson said he has very high hopes that the proposal plan will pass. He referenced how the university received approximately $15 million in legislative funding last year mainly for repairs and renovations as a focal point. Over the past few years, I've noticed that our legislature has really done a good job of funding. I have all the confidence in the world that they will continue to do that," Thompson said. "We've been in very close communications, and they understand our needs. I know they want Jackson State to be successful, so I have no doubt that they will do the best they can to fund our needs and our requests. Thompson said to get plans into motion it requires a comprehensive approach where all stakeholders are sharing a vision to keep Jackson State as a world-class institution. Jackson State is a very family-oriented environment, very close-knit. And we are an institution thats able to meet so many needs. Wherever you are in your life, Jackson State is able to grab hold of you and meet your needs, Thompson said. We are a jewel right here in the heart of Mississippi in Jackson. Thompson is starting a presidential tour which involves recruiting students and fundraising efforts later this month. This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: JSU president reveals infrastructure plans and enrollment goals A report on the Justice Departments investigation into Joe Bidens unauthorised retention of classified materials was made public on Thursday and it was as troubling for the president and his public image as it was vindicating for those who argued he had committed no crimes. The report was authored by Robert Hur, a former US attorney appointed by Donald Trump and later elevated to the rank of special counsel by Attorney General Merrick Garland. Delivered to Congress this week after many months of investigation and preparation, it recommended no criminal charges for the incumbent president, even were he not protected by immunity from prosecution due to his current stature. It did, however, contain much that will concern many Americans and was overall far from complimentary of the incumbent president. The investigators painted a picture of a senile president with severe memory issues whose innocence was less clear than his supporters would have hoped, while not necessarily coming across to a potential jury as malicious or criminal. Lets take a look at the key takeaways from Mr Hurs report: 1. Bidens memory issues are worse than publicly known This was by far the most damning aspect of the report, in terms of the impact it will have on public perception of the president. Mr Hur and his team repeatedly refer to Mr Biden struggling to remember significant details about his life including, heartbreakingly, the exact year in which his son Beau died. He also could not remember which years constituted his term as vice president. At one point, investigators recall Mr Biden questioning aloud whether he was still vice president in 2009 (that was the first year of his term). He also, on the first day of interviews with Mr Hurs team, asked: When did I stop being vice president? He also appeared, according to Mr Hur, to have trouble remembering more general facts about his time as vice president; during testimony about his work at the time on the issue of whether to surge US troops to Afghanistan, the president mistakenly said he had a real difference of opinion with a top general with whom historical records showed actually shared his opinion on the 2009 troop surge. Its the kind of candid, private revelation about the presidents mental fitness that will seriously undercut the presidents supporters as they try to make the case that he is up for another four-year term. Age and mental ability continue to be Mr Bidens chief areas of concern as far as polls indicate. 2. Biden took Afghanistan notes he believed to be most important decisions from his vice presidency The actual contents of the presidents classified stash appear to have been wholly centred on, in retrospect, one of the key moments of the Obama-Biden administration. In 2009, the Democratic president undertook a controversial decision to surge troops to Afghanistan in the hopes of driving Taliban forces out of the country entirely; a decision which many saw as an about-face given Barack Obamas campaign promise to end the war in Iraq. Mr Biden was one of the loudest voices against that decision at the time, a view which appears vindicated given the Talibans takeover of the country in 2021 after Donald Trump began a withdrawal of US contractors and military forces in the final year of his presidency. And the materials the president removed from the ordinary flow of paper at the White House were split into two categories: His own, personal, handwritten notes detailing his thinking at the time; and actual documents marked with clear classification labels. One specific document found by FBI agents was a handwritten memo penned by Mr Biden for then-President Obama summing up his arguments against the 2009 troop surge. Then-vice president Biden retained these documents because he saw them as a central part of his legacy in the White House, investigators wrote in the report. Mr. Biden had a strong motive to keep the classified Afghanistan documents. He believed President Obamas 2009 troop surge was a mistake on par with Vietnam. He wanted record to show that he was right about Afghanistan; that his critics were wrong; and that he had opposed President Obamas mistaken decision forcefully when it was made that his judgment was sound when it mattered most, read the Hur report. 3. Biden stored documents next to a dog bed The report also revealed that some of the classified documents were stored unceremoniously and in a clearly unsecured fashion in the Biden household, wrote investigators. Among the more bizarre storage locations was next to a dog bed. We also expect many jurors to be struck by the place where the Afghanistan documents were ultimately found in Mr. Biden's Delaware home: in a badly damaged box in the garage, near a collapsed dog crate, a dog bed, a Zappos box, an empty bucket, a broken lamp wrapped with duct tape, potting soil, and synthetic firewood, the report said. 3. Bidens ghostwriter deleted audio recordings This was a serious revelation: Mr Bidens ghostwriter for his memoir, Promise Me, Dad, Mark Zwonitzer, deleted digital audio recordings of his conversations with Mr. Biden after learning of Special Counsel Hurs appointment. The report goes on to stress that the recordings had major evidentiary value. FBI investigators who received a laptop Mr Zwonitzer voluntarily turned over were, however, able to recover the recordings and the author himself turned over near-verbatim transcripts he made of some of the recordings, which investigators said he made no attempts to destroy. For that latter reason, Mr Zwonitzer was not recommended to be charged either. Investigators wrote that the available evidence cannot establish beyond a reasonable doubt that Zwonitzer did so with the intent to impede, obstruct, or influence this federal investigation. 4. No criminal charges recommended Lest we forget, the release of this report came as the Justice Department was determining whether Mr Biden, like his 2020 opponent Donald Trump, would face criminal charges for mishandling classified information. And the answer is no, though not a resounding one. Mr Hurs team did find that there was evidence that Mr Biden wilfully retained documents which, again, had clear classified markings. He also rediscovered them at one point, making it clear that there were multiple opportunities for the president to return them. But the report did not find that evidence to rise beyond the standard of reasonable doubt, even in a hypothetical scenario wherein Mr Biden did not enjoy presidential immunity. The report concluded that the president would likely appear to a jury as a well-meaning, elderly man with poor memory. The presidents memory issues were considered a plausible defence by Mr Hurs team, who continued in the report: While such a swift and permanent bout of forgetfulness may seem implausible, several pieces of evidence provide some support for this possibility. The report notes one conversation between Mr Biden and his ghostwriter, which Mr Hurs team describes as a nonchalant revelation of the discovery of classified materials downstairs in his home. From this tone, the report states, one conclusion is that if Mr Biden discovered classified documents, it simply was not significant to him and was something he could have quickly forgotten. In short, Mr Biden would not fit the role of a convincing defendant. Prosecutors working for Mr Hur were not certain that they would be successful in proving that Mr Biden willfully hid documents from the government, even after it was clear he knew of their existence. 5. Despite the criticism of Biden, Hur points out differences between Trump and Biden cases Its no secret that the release of this report comes at an intensely volatile moment for Americas political system. The Republican Party remains almost wholly behind Mr Trump even as he faces 91 felony counts stemming from four separate criminal prosecutions just one related to his handling of classified materials. Mr Hurs team made clear that upon investigation the two presidents handling of their respective situations was markedly different, and rejected in advance Mr Trumps cries of a two-tiered justice system. Addressing the comparison directly, Mr Hurs report reads: It is not our role to assess the criminal charges pending against Mr. Trump, but several material distinctions between Mr. Trumps case and Mr. Bidens are clear. Unlike the evidence involving Mr. Biden, the allegations set forth in the indictment of Mr. Trump, proven, would clearly establish not only Mr. Trumps willfulness but also serious aggravating facts. Those aggrevating facts include, but were far from limited to, the ex-presidents refusal to return documents stashed at Mar-a-Lago for months after his team was contacted by the Justice Department for their retrieval. TOPEKA (KSNT) Governor Laura Kelly has declared Friday to be a special day for honoring the Kansas City Chiefs. On Feb. 9, Kelly announced Red Friday would be in effect to help hype Kansans up before the Chiefs Super Bowl appearance at 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 11, according to a press release from the Office of the Governor. The Chiefs are heading to Las Vegas to face off against the San Francisco 49ers for the 58th Super Bowl. Since I became governor six years ago, Andy Reid, Patrick Mahomes, and Travis Kelce have led the Chiefs to an unprecedented four Super Bowl appearances, Kelly said. It is clear they are building a dynasty that is benefiting the entire region, including here in Kansas. I have bet on the Chiefs many times before, and I am confident that they will reign victorious once again in Las Vegas. 3 times Kansas City Chiefs fans helped break Guinness World Records This game will be a rematch of Super Bowl LIV from 2020. The Chiefs won that game, bringing home their first Vince Lombardi Trophy in half-a-century. For more Kansas City Chiefs news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Get the latest in weather alerts by downloading our Storm Track Weather App. Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. In the film The Day After Tomorrow, the ocean system is disrupted by climate change, plunging the northern hemisphere into a permanent winter - 20th CENTURY FOX/EPA A climate model predicting a devastating Day After Tomorrow collapse of ocean systems has been criticised for relying on entirely unrealistic scenarios. A Dutch team from Utrecht University published work in the journal of Science Advances this week suggesting that the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) could reach a tipping point, triggering a new ice age. The AMOC transports heat and salt throughout the worlds oceans and helps regulate the global climate, driving the Gulf Stream that keeps Britain warmer than it should be for its northerly latitude. In the apocalyptic science fiction film The Day After Tomorrow, the ocean system is disrupted by climate change, plunging the northern hemisphere into a permanent winter. Although ice-core data suggests the AMOC can switch off, recent sophisticated modelling has not been able to reproduce the effect, leading many scientists to think a collapse is unlikely to happen. The new study claims to have shown that AMOC is on route to tipping, a prospect that the authors say is bad news for the climate system and humanity. However British scientists warned that the outcome had been forced by using unlikely variables, such as assuming large influxes of freshwater into the Atlantic. Prof Jonathan Bamber, director of the Bristol Glaciology Centre at Bristol University, said: They did this by imposing a huge freshwater forcing to the North Atlantic that is entirely unrealistic for even the most extreme warming scenario over the next century. Their freshwater forcing applied to the North Atlantic is equivalent to six cm/year of sea level rise by the end of the experiment, which is more than seen during the collapse of the ice sheet that covered North America during the last glaciation. The UNs Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has said that the AMOC is unlikely to collapse this century, and many scientists do not believe it will fail even if the climate continues to warm. Observational data for the ocean system only goes back to 2004, making it difficult to predict, and because it spans the globe, most models cannot account for all the nuances and influences. Commenting on the new research, Prof Andrew Watson, of Exeter University, said They say it suggests that the present day AMOC is on route to tipping. Push it quite hard This sounds alarming, but its important to note that this is not the same as saying collapse is going to happen imminently. They have to run their model for a long time (1,700 years) and push it quite hard to make the collapse happen. Models are not reality. The real system may be more, or less, prone to collapse than this model suggests. The authors said that the collapse of the AMOC would result in the very strong and rapid cooling of Europe by about 3C per decade, which they said no realistic adaptation measures would be able to mitigate. They said their study had picked up an early warning signal that the collapse was just 25 years away, when the movement of freshwater flowing through the southern Atlantic slows to a minimum. Other experts said the research was a reminder of the possible unexpected impacts of uncontrollable global warming, which could actually plunge the world into a new ice age. Prof Jeffrey Kargel, senior scientist at the Planetary Science Institute in Arizona, said: A shut down of the AMOC would be felt globally, according to the model, from Europe to Antarctica. Sea ice has diminished drastically Sea ice in the Arctic, which has diminished drastically in recent decades, would expand in winter to the latitudes of Ireland, the UK and Denmark. The projected changes in climate in Scandinavia and parts of Greenland and the United Kingdom and elsewhere may threaten those countries humanly habitability if glacier and ice sheet growth extends from the mountains and hill terrains to lowlands. Last year a paper published in the journal Nature suggested the AMOC was likely to collapse by 2057, and possibly as early as 2025. But the study was criticised as far too simplistic by the Met Office, which warned readers not to despair. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Democratic strategist and former Clinton advisor Paul Begala issued a warning to Democrats after the release of a special counsel report that questioned President Joe Biden's memory. "Look, I'm a Biden supporter. And I slept like a baby last night. I woke up every two hours and wet the bed. This is terrible for Democrats. And anybody with a functioning brain knows that," said Begala, who was a chief strategist to the 1992 Clinton-Gore campaign and later served as an adviser to President Bill Clinton in the White House, in an appearance Friday on CNN. Special Counsel Robert Hurs report, which was released Thursday, found that Biden willfully retained and disclosed classified information but that criminal charges weren't warranted. The report also said Biden had a poor memory, which prompted a fiery response from Biden during a Thursday night press conference. The president angrily questioned why the special counsel would write in his report that he couldnt recall when his son Beau died. I dont need anyone, anyone, to remind me when he passed away, Biden said of the special counsel. How the hell dare he raise that. Begala criticized the presidents response, arguing that an offensive strategy would have been more effective than going on the defense. What you do is attack. Change the subject. You can't unring the bell, Begala said. I think Biden made it worse, no question about it. Ahead of the November election, Begala said, the president needs to switch gears. I want to see more Joe Biden, and the gaffes are built in. But instead of simply saying, Im OK, he just simply, he needs to be on the attack 24/7 for the next 269 days, Begala said. Students at Texas A&M students in Doha, Qatar. The Texas A&M University System board of regents voted Thursday to close the Qatar campus. Emre Rende/For the Texas Tribune The Texas A&M University System board of regents voted Thursday to end its contract with the foundation that funds the system flagships branch campus in Qatar, effectively ending the 20-year-old program. The vote to end the contract with the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, which is run by the Qatar government, means the school will start winding down the Doha campus over the next four years before officially closing its doors. The current contract was signed in 2021 and was set to expire on June 30, 2033. The 7-1 vote was made without discussion. Regent Michael Plank was the only regent to vote against the proposal. Regent Robert Albritton was absent. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In a news release sent after the vote, the system said the board decided to reevaluate the universitys presence in Qatar this fall due to the heightened instability in the Middle East. The board has decided that the core mission of Texas A&M should be advanced primarily within Texas and the United States, board of regents Chair Bill Mahomes said. By the middle of the 21st century, the university will not necessarily need a campus infrastructure 8,000 miles away to support education and research collaborations. The boards decision to review its presence in the region also came as a Washington, D.C., think tank known as the Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism and Policy started to raise questions in October, shortly after the start of the Israel-Hamas war, about the partnership between the state-run foundation and the university. The nonprofit, which describes itself on its website as a center dedicated to the academic study of antisemitism, sent a letter to U.S. officials in January alleging that Qatar had substantial ownership of weapons development rights and nuclear engineering research being developed at the Texas A&M campus, which it claimed was a threat to national security. The letter came a few months after ISGAP released a 17-page report where it alleged it had discovered a disturbing relationship between Qatar and Texas A&M University. The report, released shortly after the start of the war between Israel and Hamas, notes that Hamas is funded extensively by Qatar and that Qatar maintains a relationship with the Muslim Brotherhood. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The university has firmly denied the accusations about its research. A&M President Mark Welch wrote in a letter last month to the campus community that the Qatar campus does not offer a nuclear engineering program or any classes at the campus. Contrary to what these articles have implied, no nuclear technology, weapons/defense or national security research is conducted at this campus, Welch said in a Jan. 7 statement. Nor does the Qatar campus have any connection to nuclear reactor research done in Texas or the Los Alamos National Lab. The insinuation that we are somehow leaking or compromising national security research data to anyone is both false and irresponsible, he added. In a campus message Thursday, Welch said the boards decision to close the campus by 2028 was made after thoughtful discussion. Over the last 20 years, the Qatar campus has advanced ideals, graduated exceptional Aggie engineers and is cemented as an important legacy of Texas A&M, he said in the message. As we look to the future, we will continue our commitment to global education and research through our campuses in the United States. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Qatar Foundation slammed the boards decision Thursday. In an email attributed to an unnamed spokesperson, the foundation accused the board of being influenced by a disinformation campaign aimed at harming the interests of the Qatar Foundation. It is deeply disappointing that a globally respected academic institution like Texas A&M University has fallen victim to such a campaign and allowed politics to infiltrate its decision-making processes, the statement read. At no point did the board attempt to seek out the truth from Qatar Foundation before making this misguided decision. The statement did not specify what disinformation the foundation is referring to. In a statement Thursday evening, Texas A&M system spokesperson Mike Reilly said the foundation is jumping to an unfortunate and incorrect conclusion. The misinformation campaign had no bearing on Thursdays decision by the Board of Regents, which was made following a close analysis of the universitys mission and the evolving political situation in the Middle East, Reilly said. Discussions about branch and remote campuses are ongoing and had begun before false information was reported about Texas A&M and Qatar. Multiple faculty at the Qatar campus did not immediately respond to requests for comment as the boards decision was made just after midnight in Doha. Advertisement Article continues below this ad But Joe Ura, a former professor at Texas A&M Qatar who now teaches at Clemson University, said the boards reasoning to leave amid heightened tensions in the Middle East seemed thin, given the campus opened shortly after 9/11 and continued to operate through other regional conflicts, including Saudi Arabias blockade of Qatar. The idea that a military conflict in Israel, which is not immediately proximate to Qatar seems far fetched, he said. Ura is one of two former faculty members who filed federal lawsuits against the university alleging sexual discrimination at the branch campus. Ura also alleged the school retaliated against him after administrators told him not to renew the contract of a faculty member who made a comment on social media in support of Israel, angering students and the Qatar Foundation. That professor ultimately held onto her job, but Ura left the school in 2023. The university opened the Qatar campus in 2003 to boost engineering education and research in the Middle East, a major oil and gas region. More than 1,500 students have graduated from the program, and it currently enrolls 730 students, according to the university. Texas A&M is one of six American universities that has a location in Dohas Education City, including Virginia Commonwealth University, Georgetown University and Northwestern University. The University of London ended its contract with the Qatar Foundation in 2020 as part of changes it made to its academic priorities. Advertisement Article continues below this ad All campus operations are paid for by the Qatar Foundation since A&M is a public institution and no state funding or tuition revenue can be used to pay for the campus operations. Its unclear how much money the university receives annually from the contract. In 2016, the Washington Post reported that the school received more than $76 million to operate the branch campus. According to the university system, school administrators will organize a team to ensure students can complete their education, faculty and staff are supported and that the university fulfill its current research obligations. The work in Qatar is great work, Mahomes said in the news release. But it is a fraction of what Texas A&M accomplishes year after year. A commercially chartered Crew Dragon spacecraft plunged into the atmosphere and splashed down off the east coast of Florida Friday, bringing four private astronauts back to Earth after an extended stay aboard the International Space Station. With commander Michael Lopez-Alegria and Italian co-pilot Walter Villadei monitoring cockpit displays, flanked by Swedish flier Marcus Wandt and Turkey's Alper Gezeravci, the Crew Dragon's braking rockets fired at 7:42 a.m. EST, slowing the ship just enough to drop the far side of its orbit deep into the atmosphere. The Ax-3 Crew Dragon descends to splashdown in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Florida near Daytona Beach to close out an extended 22-day mission. / Credit: SpaceX Descending along a southwest-to-northeast trajectory across Central America and the Florida peninsula, the Crew Dragon's heat shield protected the craft from temperatures higher than 3,000 degrees as the capsule rapidly decelerated in a blaze of atmospheric friction. Approaching the landing zone east of Daytona Beach, two small drogue chutes deployed to stabilize the spacecraft, followed by the ship's four main parachutes, which lowered the Crew Dragon to a gentle splashdown at 8:30 a.m. Mission duration was 21 days and 15 hours. "Welcome home," a flight controller radioed. "Thanks for flying SpaceX." "It was our pleasure," Lopez-Alegria replied. Despite the capsule's motion on a gently rolling sea, he reported all four crew members were feeling good as they began their readjustment to gravity after three weeks off planet. A SpaceX recovery ship was standing by and within about a half hour, the capsule was hauled aboard so technicians could open its side hatch and help the returning space fliers get out, one at a time, for initial medical checks. All four were in good spirits, able to stand upright with the assistance of recovery personnel as they began getting used to the unfamiliar tug of gravity. The Crew Dragon capsule, showing the signs of re-entry heating, gently bobs in the Atlantic Ocean as recovery crews converge on the spacecraft. / Credit: SpaceX It was the third -- and longest -- "private astronaut mission" chartered by Houston-based Axiom Space in a program sanctioned by NASA to encourage private-sector use of the International Space Station. Axiom is using the Crew Dragon flights to ISS to develop procedures and experience needed to operate a commercial space station the company plans to start building over the next few years. Launched Jan. 18 from the Kennedy Space Center, Lopez-Alegria, a retired NASA astronaut, Villadei, Wandt and Gezeravci originally planned to spend just two weeks aboard the station, returning to Earth on Feb. 3. But high winds in both the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean splashdown zones forced the crew to remain in orbit an additional six days when all was said and done, undocking Wednesday and then flying on their own for nearly two days to reach the proper trajectory for Friday's re-entry. The descent to splashdown appeared to go off without a hitch, clearing the way for NASA and SpaceX to press ahead with two major missions amid a steady string of Starlink launches. Ax-3 commander Michael Lopez-Alegria is all smiles as he's helped out of the Crew Dragon and onto the deck of the recovery ship Shannon. / Credit: SpaceX On Feb. 14, SpaceX plans to launch a robotic moon lander built by Intuitive Machines of Houston in a project funded by NASA to collect data on conditions near the lunar south pole as the agency ramps up toward astronaut landings in the next few years. Once that mission is is off the ground, SpaceX will shift gears and ready another Falcon 9 for launch at the end of the month from the same Kennedy Space Center pad to carry four long-duration crew members to the International Space Station. Crew 8 commander Matthew Dominick, Michael Barratt, Jeanette Epps and cosmonaut Alexander Grebenkin will join Crew 7 commander Jasmin Moghbeli, European Space Agency astronaut Andreas Mogensen, Japanese astronaut Satoshi Furukawa and cosmonaut Konstantin Borisov aboard the ISS, along with Russian cosmonauts Oleg Kononenko, Nikolai Chub and NASA's Loral O'Hara. Crew 7 was launched last August by SpaceX followed by Kononenko, Chub and O'Hara last September aboard a Russian Soyuz spacecraft. Moghbeli and her crewmates plan to undock and head home in early March. The ISS crew then will await the late March arrival of a Russian Soyuz spacecraft carrying veteran cosmonaut Oleg Novitskiy, Belarus guest flier Marina Vasilevskaya and NASA veteran Tracy Dyson. Novitskiy, Vasilevskaya and O'Hara will return to Earth on April 2, leaving Dyson behind on the ISS with Kononenko and Chub, who are both spending a full year in space. Dyson will join them for return to Earth in September. Pharma exec won't commit to selling life-saving drug in U.S. for lower price offered in Canada Missing Marines found dead Sebastian Maniscalco talks encore shows and teases Super Bowl picks Sedgwick County will soon have a new community advisory board charged with providing input on the 911 system. The 13-member board is expected to help develop recommendations related to the Emergency Communications departments policies, procedures, training, recruitment and retention. The advisory board is not authorized to take binding action on behalf of the county, and will instead report to the County Commission, which voted unanimously to establish it Feb. 7. The resolution establishing the board states that at the request of the Sedgwick County Board of County Commissioners or Sedgwick County Emergency Communications, the board may review specific emergency communications-related problems or situations. Its not yet clear how much authority board members will have to obtain personnel records or trigger the review of potentially problematic incidents involving 911 employees. The boards origins predate heightened scrutiny of 911 after last Octobers fatal Brookhollow Apartment fire. It stems instead from a recommendation of the Cedric Lofton task force, which proposed reforms to the government agencies that interacted with the 17-year-old on the morning of his fatal restraint at a county lockup facility in September 2021. Those 58 recommendations were issued in April 2022. Emergency Communications Director Elora Forshee told commissioners formation of the advisory board was delayed while the departments headquarters were remodeled and a new computer-aided dispatch system was implemented. We think that this is a great opportunity for our community to have some voice within the system, to be able to provide input, and then also we really want to leverage this team to help in community outreach, in recruitment, Forshee said. 911 already has a first responder advisory board made up of local law enforcement, fire and EMS department leaders, and an Emergency Communications employee advisory board. The new community advisory board will include one appointee from each of the five commission districts, three at-large county representatives, a Wichita representative, a Derby representative, one second- and one third-class city representative (recommended by the Sedgwick County Association of Cities), and one youth representative (age 16-19). People who are interested in participating can apply through the county website at https://boards.sedgwickcounty.org/. The Emergency Communications advisory board had not yet been listed on the site as of Friday afternoon. Board members will serve two-year terms. Sedgwick County spokesperson Nicole Gibbs said the goal is for members to be approved and the board to start meeting by the second quarter of 2024. Meetings will be held at least quarterly. Forshee will serve as a non-voting member of the board. Asked who will set the agenda for meetings, Gibbs said Forshee, county commissioners and advisory board members will all have the ability to add agenda items as long as they fit within the scope of the Board as outlined in the resolution. Forshees management of the department has been called into question in the months since the fatal apartment fire, when 911 dispatchers failed to communicate potentially lifesaving information about 22-year-old Paoly Bedeskis location to firefighters on the scene and did not sound a second alarm that would have sent more firetrucks to the scene until 17 minutes after the request was made. Sedgwick County and the city of Wichita are in the process of procuring an independent audit to review what went wrong during the fatal incident. County commissioners have remained supportive of Forshee publicly, including after 15 former 911 employees signed an open letter alleging deficient training and a toxic work culture in the department. The town of Baldwin will be closing its only grocery store after being open for just five years. Customers and employees express their frustration with Action News Jax. They said theyre now back to being a food desert. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< Neighbors in Baldwin were excited when Baldwin Marketplace opened back in 2019. Now, theyre heartbroken that an open sign on the front door said closed -- permanently. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] Assistant Store Manager Larry Phillips said, We are completely a desert. We have no place to go to shop. Baldwin, with a population of 1,500 became a food desert -- a community with limited access to affordable and healthy food. This Marketplace was supposed to change that. Related Story: Local businesses donate more than $14k to food desert community in honor of Black History Month But now the grocery is closing shop. The mayors office in Baldwin told us the lack of a customer base was the reason. Phillips said, We dont get a lot of the town to support us. So business is not the best. Assistant Store Manager Larry Phillips started working here in 2021. He said business was going well until people started shopping less. Two customers told Action News Jax they have been shopping here for two years now. They said they were shocked when they heard this place was closing. Related Story: Florida Blue Foundation invests $14.5 million to improve food security and community health Customer Amber Johns said, I dont like that its closing. We depend on it. We work right beside it, and we depend on it for lunch every day. The Jacksonville City Council passed a proposal to provide incentives for big chain grocers to open stores in food desert areas. Baldwin was one of the few areas that took the opportunity and ran its own grocery store. We asked the mayors office if another business would replace this one. They said they dont know at this time. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] The employees that work at the Baldwin Marketplace told Action News Jax if you want to go to a grocery store, the nearest one is in MacClenny, which is 10 miles away from Baldwin. 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. While law enforcement can legally conduct DUI checkpoints across California and must announce the date and general location beforehand, what does California law say about your duty as a driver? Are you required to comply? Heres what we found: Do I have to comply with law enforcement? The law: California Vehicle Code 2814.2 says all drivers must stop and submit to a sobriety checkpoint inspection when law enforcement requires it. Once a driver is at the checkpoint, they must comply with law enforcement as well as supply their license and registration at an officers request, the vehicle code states. However, a driver is not legally obligated to submit to field sobriety tests, pre-arrest breath tests, or cheek swabs at a DUI checkpoint, according to Shouse California Law Group. These tests are optional and a driver may refuse them without penalty (though doing so may result in the driver being arrested for DUI anyway), the law website says. If, however, the driver is lawfully arrested, refusing a post-arrest DUI breath test or DUI blood test is considered a chemical test refusal. What other rights do you have at a DUI checkpoint? These are your rights, according to Riverside Law Offices of Grech and Packer: Right to remain silent. Right to refuse field sobriety tests. Right to refuse Preliminary Alcohol Screening tests. You also have the right to refuse a search of yourself, your car or your phone. Can I avoid a DUI checkpoint? If the driver has not yet been stopped by law enforcement, there are ways they can avoid the checkpoint. How to avoid the checkpoint: There is no state or federal law that prohibits someone from turning around or finding another route as long as it is safe to do so to avoid a DUI checkpoint, according to Shouse California Law Group. Why does California law enforcement tell the public about DUI checkpoints? Before law enforcement conducts a DUI checkpoint, motorists will typically get a publicized warning before the stop and an approximate location where officers will be posted. Why the heads-up? Its required by law, said Officer Cody Tapley, a spokesman for the Sacramento Police Department, in a September interview with The Sacramento Bee. Tapley said there are several requirements outlining why law enforcement has to do it that way, including federal and state guidelines. These guidelines include: Checkpoints are established by supervising officers. Drivers are stopped using a formula. Proper lighting, signs, official cars and officers are used. Checkpoints are fair and made by a government official. The time and duration of the checkpoint was conducted in good judgment. Official signs are stationed at the checkpoint. Decrease the average time drivers are stopped. The checkpoint is publicized before the event. How does law enforcement choose checkpoint locations? Checkpoint locations are primarily chosen based on both previous DUI-related crashes and arrests, according to an August news release from the Sacramento Police Department. The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests, but to promote public safety by deterring drivers from driving impaired, the release states. During a checkpoint, officers will typically check drivers for signs indicating that they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including prescription medications, marijuana and over-the-counter medications. What are the penalties for driving under the influence? Driving is a privilege, as outlined by the California Department of Motor Vehicles. If you are stopped by law enforcement for driving under the influence, the DMV has the authority to revoke or suspend your driving privilege. Drivers charged with a first-time DUI can also face an average of $13,500 in fines, fees and more. The Bees Briana Taylor at The Sacramento Bee contributed to this story. CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) A Concord woman is suing the N.C. Department of Transportation for allegedly not providing adequate space for her to breast pump. The lawsuit filed in December 2023 to the U.S. District Court for the Western District of North Carolina states that leadership with the N.C. Department of Motor Vehicles violated the Civil Rights Act of 1964 for discriminating on the basis of sex. The allegations state the DMV failed to make meaningful accommodations to expressing breast milk during work and impeded an employee from using a private and secure location to do so. Cabarrus County juvenile center employee arrested for strangulation According to court documents, Tyima Jenkins returned to her position at the DMV from maternity leave in March 2022. At that time, she would go home to pump, but due to having to work in the field, she often did so in her vehicle. The suit states she was assigned a vehicle that had ongoing mechanical issues, including a non-working air conditioning unit. This made the process uncomfortable, but the high temperatures also made it difficult for her to keep breast milk cool, the lawsuit states. After requesting a new vehicle, supervisors Lt. Troutman and Lt. Landis designated the offices records room as the lactation room. The suit states this was inferior to the space that Troutman had been provided upon her return from maternity leave. A sign was placed on the door, and only three office managers, including Landis and Troutman, had keys to the room. A few months later, Landis reportedly walked in on Jenkins while she was pumping despite the sign being up. She told him twice that she was pumping before he left the room, the lawsuit states. Another time, the suit states that the records room was locked so Jenkins entered an adjacent room to pump. Jenkins placed a do not enter sign on that door, but an employee walked in on her pumping. In August 2022, Jenkins then requested for better accommodations to pump due to a lack of privacy and security. Another office was designated, and Landis sent an email to employees stating this change. Second lawsuit alleges flight attendant from Charlotte filmed 9-year-old girl in bathroom Later that day, Jenkins overheard employees talking about walking in on her, and Ratliff saying that she looked like a deer in headlights, which made Jenkins uncomfortable. A few weeks later, Jenkins noticed a camera in the office she used for pumping. She asked Troutman about it, and she said there was a piece of paper covering it, but it mustve fallen off. A live camera in a room designated for breastfeeding was in direct violation of the law. The suit states that Jenkins was expressing her breast milk less, and her breasts would become engorged and painful while working. She also would resort to pumping in her vehicle or going home when her schedule permitted due to her being uncomfortable at the office. By September 2022, Jenkins milk supply had reportedly decreased significantly. Because she was no longer producing an adequate supply, she was no longer able to provide breast milk for her child while he was in daycare which deprived him of the myriad benefits of breastfeeding. By mid-October, her milk supply had dried up, the lawsuit states. On Nov. 4, 2022, Jenkins filed an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) complaint under the Office of State Human Resources Employee Grievance Policy against the DMV. The NCDOT EEO office issued a finding on Jan. 3, 2023, that determined the DMV failed to follow state and federal mandates when they placed her in a room with a camera. The suit states Jenkins was forced to leave her position due to the emotional harm. It names Wayne Goodwin as the defendant in his official capacity as DMV commissioner. Chapter of Sigma Phi Epsilon at Davidson College suspended over hazing In 2010, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act amended the Fair Labor Standards Act to require employers to provide a nursing mother reasonable break time to express breast milk after the birth of her child. The amendment also requires that employers provide a place for an employee to express breast milk privately without interruption. As a result of the sex discrimination, Jenkins is seeking damages in an amount to be determined at trial. She demands a trial by jury. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. A collection of campaign mailers that have appeared in competitive GOP districts in Texas ahead of the 2024 primary. Hearst Newspapers Across the state, voters in Texas House districts with competitive GOP primaries are receiving campaign mailers from conservative organizations attacking incumbent representatives. According to ads sent by Texans for Fiscal Responsibility, Republicans in the Legislature are spending tax dollars recklessly, voting to increase their own pensions last session. Per Texas Gun Rights, a handful of conservatives have helped President Joe Biden bring gun control to Texas. Advertisement Article continues below this ad And then there are the mailers and texts from the Texas Family Project, which blast House RINOs Republicans in name only for passing resolutions to celebrate Muslim holidays and acknowledge the work of LGBTQ chambers of commerce. As so-called dark money groups, they can send mailers without having to disclose who is funding them. But all three groups share something in common: The people who run them have deep ties to a web of far-right advocacy groups with links to GOP megadonors Tim Dunn and brothers Dan and Farris Wilks. The billionaire oil tycoons from West Texas have been active in state politics for decades, supporting candidates and organizations that aim to push the party further to the right, especially on social issues. Texans for Fiscal Responsibility, Texas Gun Rights and the Texas Family Project ramped up their involvement in competitive primaries this year amid an ongoing civil war within the Texas Republican Party, which has split into factions over the impeachment of Attorney General Ken Paxton and support for Gov. Greg Abbotts priority private school voucher plan. ATTENTION VOTERS: Send us your campaign mail Advertisement Article continues below this ad Their mailers have been sent out in at least 10 House districts with competitive primaries and take aim at some of the chambers most conservative members, according to pictures and texts obtained by Hearst Newspapers. The targets include Houston-area districts currently represented by Reps. Lacey Hull, Mano DeAyala and Jacey Jetton, along with San Antonio-area districts represented by Reps. Steve Allison and Ellen Troxclair. None of the groups responded to a request for comment. The anti-Muslim mailer sent by the Texas Family Project was widely condemned by Texas Republicans as hateful and contrary to the partys beliefs. I hope that people will take just a couple short minutes to actually look up the dark web of how these organizations are all tied together by donors that dont even live in my district, Troxclair said. And the fact that theyre copying it all across the state its gotten so far away from policy. Strings on a corkboard Understanding the connection among the groups, their leaders and funders is like pinning red strings on a corkboard. A handful of the groups have rebranded after getting caught up in public scandals. Some are registered officially under one name but use a different name publicly. (The Wilks brothers did not respond to a request for comment, and Dunn could not be reached. All of their associates named in this story did not return requests for comment.) Advertisement Article continues below this ad Because the organizations are registered as 501(c) (4) nonprofits, they are not required to disclose their funders, making it difficult to determine who exactly is paying for the mailers and other campaign materials. Those kinds of nonprofits are not allowed to explicitly support or oppose candidates, but they can get around those rules by focusing on specific issues, even if they single out politicians. The most prominent PAC in the Dunn-Wilks network is Defend Texas Liberty, which has been caught in a political firestorm since October after its former leader, former state Rep. Jonathan Stickland, hosted a well-known white supremacist who has praised Adolf Hitler. The PAC has since rebranded to Texans United for a Conservative Majority, which has received $1.3 million from Farris Wilks and $700,000 from the Dunn-affiliated firm Hexagon Partners. Stickland has been removed as the groups leader. Texans for Fiscal Responsibility, which sent the pension mailers, was originally an arm of a group Dunn heavily funded that preceded Defend Texas Liberty. The nonprofit publishes annual scorecards grading legislators votes on economic policies and created a separate 501(c) (4) in January 2023, which is behind the latest round of mailers. Among the 501(c)(4)s initial slate of directors was former state Rep. Kyle Biedermann, an embattled far-right Republican running against Troxclair in her Hill Country district. Biedermann, who did not respond to a request for comment, appears to have stepped down from the board before announcing his campaign last October, and his run for office has been heavily funded by Texans United for a Conservative Majority. Advertisement Article continues below this ad On its website, the group names policy goals that include abolishing property taxes, eliminating corporate welfare and imposing spending limits on local governments. Texas Gun Rights filed as a 501(c) (4) in February 2023, and Texas GOP Chair Matt Rinaldi was initially listed on the board of directors. A spokesperson for the Texas GOP said he resigned from the group the next month and is not linked to the latest round of mailers sent by the organization. Rinaldi has close ties to Stickland, and he has been working as an attorney for Farris Wilks in recent months, the Texas Tribune reported. The president of Texas Gun Rights, Chris McNutt, teamed up with a Defend Texas Liberty employee last year to help Kyle Rittenhouse the young man tried and later acquitted of five charges after fatally shooting two men and wounding a third during Black Lives Matter protests in Kenosha, Wis., in 2020 establish a foundation. The Texas Family Project established its 501(c) (4) in April 2022, and its president, Brady Gray, was the CEO of a right-wing consulting firm owned by Stickland, according to Grays LinkedIn profile. Advertisement Article continues below this ad On its website, the group defended its recent mailers, saying in a blog post: We work to make families the most powerful force in Austin and to ensure Christian family values are upheld by our government. Texas voters deserve no less. Tony McDonald, a longtime attorney for Dunn-Wilks groups, is a registered agent for Texans for Fiscal Responsibility and the Texas Family Project. He declined to comment for this story but noted that his role as a registered agent is related to legal procedures and has zero indication he is involved in any of the organizations day-to-day activities. There are several other advocacy groups linked to the Dunn-Wilks sphere, including some that cover vaccines and border security. Many of them bear names similar to other, unaffiliated GOP activist groups. The purpose is to deceive the public, said Troxclair, R-Lakeway. Lawmakers say mailers are deceptive Troxclair said she was in total and utter shock when she saw the mailers going out in her Hill Country district, which includes Boerne, Fredericksburg and Burnet. The one about pensions photoshopped her face onto an old West-style wanted poster and tied her to former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. The gun mailer touted a new website targeting her for allegedly not supporting the Second Amendment. Troxclair, a first-term representative, found the accusations ridiculous. She is regularly ranked among the most conservative lawmakers in the House, according to analyses conducted by a political science professor at Rice University. She points out that shes endorsed by the National Rifle Association. The allegation she raised her own pension? The bill never passed, she said, and was meant to raise judicial pay. Theres always some monkey business that can happen, but this is so far and beyond anything Ive ever seen, when it comes to intentionally manipulative, deceptive and outright false, Troxclair said. The Texas House is ground zero for GOP infighting this season, as dozens of members face competitive primaries. After the 2021 redistricting cycle, there are few competitive districts come November so, in many cases, whoever wins the primary is all but certain to win the general election. There has always been at least some tension between Republican leadership in the Legislature and the partys right flank. But the infighting has reached a new level over the past year. Paxton promised political retribution against anyone who took part in the effort to remove him from office, and the Dunn-Wilks groups led a public campaign opposing his impeachment before his Senate trial. House Speaker Dade Phelan who is under fire from Paxton, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, Rinaldi and other fellow Republicans has promised to protect his incumbent members. He has been increasingly critical of the Dunn-Wilks network in recent months, especially as the businessmen have bankrolled a Phelan primary opponent who is running to the speakers right. These hateful mailers represent the increasingly reckless turn our political discourse is taking at the hands of dark money groups and the bigotry they espouse, Phelan said in an emailed statement. State Rep. Jared Patterson, R-Frisco, is not facing a primary challenger this cycle, but he and others have stepped up to defend their GOP colleagues in light of the mailers and other campaign advertisements. Delegation of the Chamber of Representatives of the US Congress. Photo: Bridget Brink on Twitter (X) The members of the delegation of the Chamber of Representatives of the US Congress in the city of Kyiv stated that the US intends to keep supporting Ukraine, and this is the main message of their visit. Source: European Pravda with reference to Interfax-Ukraine citing the delegations statements at the briefing Details: A Republican French Hill noted that surveys in the US show that Americans do not want Putin to win in Ukraine. Quote: "The people know that this would be bad not only for Europe, the Ukrainian people and Ukraines sovereignty but for the world as wellWe will not let the Russian bear, which eats even when its not hungry, ruin this sovereign nation." Democrat Jason Crow stated that the goal of the visit is to send a signal that the US supports Ukraine. "We support Ukraine not only because we understand that the protection of freedom and democracy worldwide is an American value but also because it is the national interest of the US. With less than 5% of our annual defence budget we helped Ukraine facilitate a stable and flourishing Europe. We helped Ukraine kill half of the Russian army. We helped Ukraine protect our allies in NATO," he stressed. "Investments and support by the American people in this fight, in these efforts is what we have proudly done, and I hope that we will continue doing this," Democrat Abigail Spanberger added. A bipartisan delegation of the Congress arrived in Kyiv on 9 February in the afternoon. It comprises five people, most of them members of the intelligence committee. Background: On 8 February the US Senate took a step towards approving the aid package for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan. Yet the chances of it being approved in the Chamber of Representatives remain uncertain. Support UP or become our patron! This is a photo of Education Commissioner Charlene Russell-Tucker speaking at a podium with a group of children next to her. This article was originally published in CT Mirror. Kate Dias, president of the largest teachers union in the state, the Connecticut Education Association, this week recalled a time in her teaching career when she bought Barbie dolls to make a lesson more engaging. One of her colleagues, she said, used Play-Doh to help create calculus models. For both projects, the money to purchase those supplies came out of the teachers pocket, Dias said. Get stories like these delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter According to a survey from the Association of American Educators, teachers spend an average of over $650 a year on supplies, which sometimes includes toys for innovative ideas, but also purchases of everyday items for the classroom like notebooks and markers. This week, state Department of Education officials announced a new $4 million investment that aims to give thousands of educators the opportunity to propose projects and have the supplies paid for by the state. Connecticut is home to excellent educators, and they deserve to be celebrated, Charlene Russell Tucker, the states education commissioner, said at a press conference on Thursday at Highcrest Elementary School in Wethersfield. Teachers work enthusiastically on behalf of our students every single day, fostering classroom environments where students are encouraged to be curious and take risks, and where student learning, growth, and well-being is always at the forefront. This investment emphasizes how important our educators are and how deeply we value the work they do on behalf of our states students. The Connecticut Educator Support Funds Initiative launched this week in partnership with DonorsChoose, a website that allows teachers to crowdfund for classroom supplies and resources. Eligible projects must prioritize learning acceleration, academic renewal, and student enrichment, or social, emotional, and mental health of students and school staff, the education department said. Pre-K through 12th grade public school teachers can apply for up to $1,000 worth of funding per project they propose. Funding will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis and eligible projects are expected to be funded within a week of posting the request. We know that additional funds allow us to think and do things differently and in some cases, just enhances an opportunity weve seen and forecast in our classrooms, Dias said. These opportunities allow us to say Listen, we want everyone to have access. We dont want it to be based on what your teacher can afford to do. We want everyone everywhere to have opportunities to engage and do things differently. Most of the existing posts on the DonorsChoose website are requesting money for classroom supplies including dry-erase markers, notebooks, pencils and water bottles. Other requests include scooter-boards for physical education classes in Danbury, T-shirts and snacks for a student yoga club in Bridgeport and headphones for state testing in Hartford. This story was originally published in CT Mirror. Moldovas republican constitutional referendum, to be held simultaneously with the Presidential elections, aims to enshrine in the Constitution the irreversibility of the country's accession to the European Union, said Moldovan President Maia Sandu in an interview with the national Moldovan TV channel Moldova 1 on Feb. 8. "Now it is up to us to want to make [EU membership] a reality and, of course, to work every day, which we are doing, Sandu said. If you ask me about our decision, it is also connected with the initiative that we proposed a few months ago regarding the referendum a republican, constitutional referendum, where the citizens of the Republic of Moldova will make a decision, and this decision will be recorded in the Constitution of the Republic of Moldova. Then we have certainty. The referendum will coincide with the elections to maximize participation, Sandu said. Read also: Moldovan firms allegedly facilitate $15M aircraft parts sales to Russia post Ukraine invasion "This referendum's decision will determine the country's fate for many years to come, she said. It is a crucial decision, and I want as many people as possible to take part in this referendum and contribute to making this decision." The European Council initiated negotiations on EU membership with Ukraine and Moldova on Dec. 14 and also granted candidate status to Georgia. Sandu proposed in late December 2024, that the parliament organize a referendum in Moldova on joining the EU. Read also: Moldova struggles with surge in citizenship requests from Russians 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 CORNING, N.Y. (WETM) The Corning-San Giovanni Sister Cities Association is sending faculty and students of the Corning-Painted Post Area School District, along with the mayor, to Italy to participate in its exchange program between the Sister Cities this February. The association will send two high school students, two high school teachers, the superintendent of the school, Michelle Caulfield, and Corning Mayor Bill Boland and his wife, to San Giovanni Valdarno, Italy, on Feb. 15, 2024, as a part of its Sister City exchange agreement. Rainbow of Hope to host 8th annual drag show this weekend This is the 17th year of the program, the product of an agreement that was signed between the city of Corning, New York, and the city of San Giovanni Valdarno, Italy. While they are visiting the city, the students and teachers of Corning-Painted Post will be staying with host families and will attend the new exchange school, Licei Giovanni. The city mayors will also recreate the signing of the Sister City agreements. In addition to participating in the exchange program, they will also visit Florence, Venice, Rome and other places in the Tuscan Region. They will return to Corning on Feb. 25. To learn more about the Sister Cities Association of Corning, NY, visit the associations website. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com. COSHOCTON Candidates for Coshocton County sheriff understand it won't get easier to patrol the streets and keep the peace moving forward, but both said they feel they know how to keep the community safe. Incumbent James Crawford is being challenged for the Republican nomination for sheriff in the spring primary by Chief Chris Walters of the West Lafayette Police Department. Crawford won the office four years ago against then-Sheriff Tim Rogers. The Ohio Primary will take place on March 19. The last day to register is vote is Tuesday, Feb. 20. West Lafayette Police Chief Chris Walters Walters is a Coshocton County native and graduate of Ridgewood High School. He has a degree in criminal justice from what is now Zane State College and attended the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy there. Walters was sworn in as a deputy with the Coshocton County Sheriff's Office in 1993 and later accepted a full-time job with the West Lafayette Police Department while still serving with the sheriff's office. He became chief of police in West Lafayette in 2021. Walters is on the board of directors for Allwell Behavioral Health Services, advisory board for the Coshocton Community Resource Center, local Corrections Planning Board, Ohio Association Chiefs of Police, Leadership Coshocton County 2024, West Lafayette Rotary Club, West Lafayette Lions Club and is a past member of the Buckeye State Sheriffs Association. Coshocton County Sheriff James Crawford Crawford is a Coshocton County native and graduate of River View High School. He became a civilian mounted office for the Coshocton County Sheriff's Office in 1996 and then a deputy in 1998. He served in various roles in a direct service capacity or supervisory position, including as an administrative lieutenant, before leaving the sheriff's office in 2019 to seek the office of sheriff. He has served as an instructor for the Ohio Peace Officers Academy with additional certifications in child abuse and neglect and missing children. He later received Child Abduction Response Team certification and became one of only two deputy sheriff's appointed to the Ohio Attorney General's Office CART Committee. He was selected by the Buckeye State Sheriff's Association to serve on the Ohio Amber Alert Advisory Committee. Candidates were asked three question by the Tribune on their candidacy. Why are you running for sheriff? Crawford: I am running for sheriff for a multitude of reasons with the most important being my dedication to serving the people of Coshocton County. This community holds a special place in my heart, and I am driven to enhance the quality of life for our residents. Coshocton is not just where I live; it's where I met my wife, raised my children and had numerous enriching experiences and jobs. Among all these endeavors, my role as sheriff has been the most fulfilling, bringing immense joy and purpose to my life. Law enforcement has recently experienced substantial transformations and, regrettably, a noticeable divide appears to be emerging. It is imperative to address this gap to ensure the protection of our communities. Although our community is currently fortunate not to reflect some of the national news stories, I am of the belief all law enforcement agencies can enhance their relationships with the community. As your sheriff, my objective is to persistently fortify these connections by upholding the highest standards of professionalism. I am dedicated to closing that gap and cultivating a safer, more unified community. Walters: I am running for the office of sheriff because of my experience in law enforcement. I believe the staff at the sheriffs office will benefit and learn more from a leader who has done the job and has served the public for the years I have. I will be a working, patrolling sheriff that will be out in the community bridging the gap between law enforcement and the people we serve and protect. There needs to be a leader that supports his staff, supports the community and helps make Coshocton an attractive place to live and/or visit with the comfort of knowing our community is safe and a great place to raise a family. There needs to be a leader that takes part in community events and who has an open-door policy for anyone with suggestions or concerns they can speak to directly. What are major goals you would have for your coming term in office? Crawford: My first major goal is to continue efforts in promoting academies to provide law enforcement future candidates for employment. I have traveled throughout the state to meet and discuss the challenges and explore potential solutions concerning the shortage of local Peace Officer Training Academies. As one of several sheriffs in Ohio, I participated in meetings with the Ohio Peace Officers Training Commission, advocating for our concerns. Locally, after much effort, our community stakeholders came together to provide the opportunity for a local academy. My second goal pertains to a critical concern shared by most law enforcement agencies the drug epidemic. Effectively addressing the war on drugs necessitates the collaboration of various solutions and resources. As we endeavor to allocate resources to combat this issue, it becomes evident achieving these efforts hinges on the success of my first goal. Our active participation in the Central Ohio Drug Task Force plays a crucial role in providing resources for these endeavors. We remain dedicated to working together as a unified force. Additionally, I am committed to active involvement in local and state coalitions, collaborations and committees, ensuring a comprehensive and coordinated approach to tackling the challenges posed by the drug epidemic. I still believe one important way in which to do this is to educate. I believe with a strong presence in our schools our law enforcement personnel can make a difference in the future of our students. Walters: There are several goals as your sheriff I would get started immediately. Staffing has been an issue and the revolving door of deputies brings concerns to our community. I will bring the staff back to its capacity, enabling the sheriffs office to be more proactive than reactive. The dispatch/communication center staff has been understaffed for many years. The current two person per shift work schedule needs revamped. The world is a much busier place than it was in the 1980s when that schedule was established. The calls for service for all first responders have increased tremendously over the last 40 years. The way it stands at this time is unsafe for all first responders; fire, EMS and the officers when they need to be heard and/or sent to calls for service. With the latest news of Intel coming to a nearby county, a study has been done on the trickle effects of neighboring communities that will absorb growth from this size of a company. Its very important to bring the staff back to capacity and revamp the dispatch/communications center to handle any call volume that may come to our community. The new jail will be up and running soon, with this in mind, I will research the benefits of leasing out beds to other law enforcement agencies. In similar circumstances, other county jails have leased out beds and shown a return of $500,000 or more. What are major accomplishments from your time as sheriff? Crawford: My first major goal was to build a new Justice Center. Through collaborative efforts, from the state in providing grant dollars to our local officials, leaders and community residents in providing so much support. Without everyones support and efforts on this project, it would not have become a reality. The final sign-off is expected in August of this year and move in date to follow a short time after. My first major management accomplishment was being 100% compliant with the Ohio Collaborative Standards, this was completed within the first year of my first term. These standards are risk management tools for reducing liability while providing our employees with the best policys and continued education. These standards are also a pathway to ensure transparency. At the time of ourcertification we were one of seven sheriffs offices in the state to accomplish this. We were also the only law enforcement agency in the county to receive 100% compliance on all five standards. This certification was a huge accomplishment and it would not have been possible without the efforts of my command staff. My second major accomplishment during my first term was the successful implementation of new positions. Upon taking office in 2021, the roster was comprised of 57 full-time personnel. Today, we boast 66 full-time personnel. The addition of nine new positions was a blessing and proved critical to our operations. As we worked towards enhancing accountability to our personnel and community, these positions played a vital role in achieving our goals. What are elements of your background will serve you and the people if elected? Walters: During my law enforcement career, I have handled a variety of calls for service on different shifts, not only dayshift. For the last three decades, I have served right here in Coshocton County. I have always had a strong passion for serving the public and helping make our community a better place to live and work. That passion includes being out talking with our residents, listening to our residents and working with other leaders in the community. I am familiar with the city and county as I have served in all areas of Coshocton for many years. While serving at the Coshocton County Sheriffs Office I was the FOP union representative for the deputies bargaining unit for approximately nine years and with my current position of chief of police in West Lafayette, I have experience in both roles. The background I bring with me is leadership that leads by example out in the field. A public servant serves the public outside the office. This article originally appeared on Coshocton Tribune: March primary: Two seeking GOP nomination for Coshocton County sheriff Walmart, Costco and Trader Joes are recalling several products amid an ongoing listeria outbreak tied to cheese and other dairy products. Other nationwide retailers are also affected by the recall, which stems from California-based company Rio Lopez Foods. Listeria is a type of bacteria that can be deadly if consumed by certain groups. The Food and Drug Administration announced the recall on Feb. 6. The outbreak, which dates back to 2014, has left at least two people dead, an ongoing investigation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found. However, it's not clear what retailers the products that led to the fatalities were purchased from. Cheese recall 2024 affects Walmart, Costco and Trader Joes Rizo Lopez foods has voluntarily recalled all cheeses and other dairy products made in its facility, roughly 60 items, due to a risk that they are contaminated with listeria, per the FDA. The items were sold nationwide, including at Walmart, Trader Joes and Costco. Both grocery stores have issued their own recalls of items that are affected by the Rizo Lopez listeria outbreak. The recalled Costco items are: The recalled Trader Joes items are: Chicken Enchiladas Verde (sku 58292) Cilantro Salad Dressing (sku 36420) Elote Chopped Salad Kit (sku 74768) Southwest Salad (sku 56077) The recalled Walmart items are: Fresh Express Salsa! Ensalada Salad Kit with use-by date between Jan. 6 and Feb. 20, 2024, including its condiment packet, UPC 681131305129 Marketside Southwest Chopped Salad Kit with use-by date between Dec. 27, 2023, and Feb. 20, 2024, including its condiment packet, UPC 071279309026 or 681131305129 Marketside Bacon Ranch Crunch Chopped Salad Kit with use-by date on or before Feb. 21, 2024, UPC 6 8113130544 0 Dole Chopped Kit Avocado Ranch, use-by date between Feb. 3 and Feb. 20, 2024, UPC 71430000915 or 71430000922 Dole Premium Kit Southwest Salad, use-by date between Feb. 4 and Feb. 18, 2024, UPC 71430017012 Dole Cajun Ranch Chopped Kit, use-by between Feb. 4 and Feb. 18, 2024, UPC 71430002063 Dole Premium Kit Endless Summer, use-by between Feb. 4 and Feb. 19, 2024, UPC 71430010730 Dole Supreme Kit Southwest Salad, use-by date between Feb. 3 and Feb. 18, 2024, UPC 71430017111 Presidents Choice Southwest Salad Kit, use-by date between Feb. 3 and Feb. 18, 2024, UPC 60383023195 All three retailers said that anyone who has purchased these items should not consume them and instead contact either the store for a full refund. Other recalled cheese and dairy products due to listeria: The FDA said in its announcement that queso fresco and cotija cheese and other dairy products included in the recall were also sold under these brand names at retailers and deli counters nationwide: Tio Francisco Don Francisco Rizo Bros Rio Grande Food City El Huache La Ordena San Carlos Campesino Santa Maria Dos Ranchitos Casa Cardenas 365 Whole Foods Market The FDA website features a full list of the recalled products. Listeria Outbreak Linked to Queso Fresco and Cotija Cheese (CDC) Listeria outbreak 2024 The outbreak, which has been linked to illnesses as far back as June 2014, has made at least 26 people in 11 states sick, including 23 hospitalizations. Two people, one in California and another in Texas, died after consuming the contaminated products, according to the CDC. The CDC originally investigated the outbreak in 2017 and 2021. Evidence in those previous investigations identified queso fresco and other similar cheeses as a potential source of the outbreak, but a specific brand could not be identified. After new illnesses were reported in December 2023, the CDC and the FDA reopened the investigation. In January 2024, a sample of Rizo Bros Aged Cotija tested positive for the same strain of listeria that made consumers sick in the original outbreak during a test conducted by the Hawaii State Department of Healths Food and Drug Branch. The FDA later conducted an on-site inspection at Rizo Lopez Foodss facility, where it found the outbreak strain of Listeria on a container where cheeses are kept before they are packaged, per the CDC. The CDC is urging consumers not to eat the recalled products and to throw away any of the products if they are found at home. Consumers should also clean any refrigerators, containers, and surfaces that may have touched the recalled products. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-833-296-2233, which will be monitored 24 hours a day. What is listeria? Listeria is a bacteria found in water, soil and animal feces, according to Mayo Clinic. It can contaminate many different types of foods and survive refrigeration. When a person consumes listeria and it makes them sick, the infection is called listeriosis. It is especially dangerous for older, immunocompromised or pregnant individuals. Listeria infection is the third-leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the U.S. Listeria symptoms Symptoms of listeria infection, according to the CDC, can include: Vomiting Fever Headache Muscle aches Neck stiffness Fatigue Confusion Loss of balance Seizures Pregnant people who become infected with listeria may only experience symptoms of fever, muscle aches and tiredness, but an infection can cause pregnancy loss, premature birth or a life-threatening infection in a newborn. How long after eating a contaminated food does listeria kick in? Symptoms of a listeria infection typically start within two weeks after eating contaminated food, but they may start as early as the same day or as late as 10 weeks afterward. Consumers who experience symptoms after eating a recalled product should call a health care provider immediately. This article was originally published on TODAY.com ST. LOUIS You may think theres no harm in going 5 or 10 mph over a posted speed limit. But based on state laws in Missouri and Illinois, you should probably think twice before speeding. According to the Federal Highway Administration, posted speed limits are those that are sign-posted along the road and are enforceable by law. Anything above the posted speed limit is technically a violation. And its up to state legislatures to establish these speed limits for different types of roads. With this in mind and with inspiration from Denvers Nexstar sister station (KDVR), FOX 2 wanted to learn more about speeding enforcement in the St. Louis region. Rain and snow impacts southern half of St. Louis region Monday KDVRs digital report dug deep into two questions: Could driving 5 miles per hour over the speed limit lead to a ticket? If not, how fast can someone go over the speed limit before being pulled over? In Missouri and Illinois, the answers to these questions and criteria for acting upon a speeding violation arent too far different. Cpl. Dallas Thompson of the Missouri State Highway Patrol offered this insight: The posted speed limit is exactly that: the speed limit. Now, troopers are given discretion on when they write tickets for speed or issue warnings. They should take into account the type of roadway, roadway condition, traffic volume, etc. They may also look at the driver as well as far as prior offenses and driving history. So, 5 miles over the posted speed limit could result in a ticket. That is at the discretion of the trooper at the time of the traffic stop. Illinois State Police Public Information Officer Christopher Watson offered this insight: The State of Illinois has what is called an absolute speed limit law. In essence, if you drive faster than the posted speed limit, you are in violation of the law and can be cited for the infraction accordingly. Illinois State Police also outlines policies for acting upon speeding violations in a department directives page. Under the Speed Limit and Occupant Restraint section, a document reads, In cases ten or more mph above the posted speed limit, issuing a citation will be the standard enforcement procedure. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Interpreting speeding laws in Missouri and Illinois, its not likely youll be pulled over for going five miles over the speed limit compared to anything exceeding that, but its still against the law and could lead authorities to issue a ticket depending on the circumstance. Revisiting KDVRs report, the Colorado State Patrol informed them that one big consideration in setting a speed limit is the ability to stop in time in case of something unexpected. If youre speeding, it could take longer for you to react and brake should the vehicles ahead of you suddenly stop. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. In a report published by Reuters, the US-backed force in Syria, known as the Syrian Democratic Forces, has stated that additional air defenses are needed in Northeastern Syria following drone strikes that it has blamed on Pro-Iran military groups. Commander of the SDF, Mazloum Adi stated that he thinks it's "a dangerous development when our camps are targeted in drone attacks by factions backed by Iran." Adi has stated to reporters that the fighters as well as United States troops who fight alongside SDF forces are becoming more vulnerable due to wider instability increasing in the Middle Eastern region as a result of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Bases located within both the Eastern and Northeastern regions of Syria have been on the receiving end of drone and rocket attacks as pro-Iran military groups continue to show their support for Palestinians. For example, there was a drone strike conducted in late January on a United States military facility that killed three United States troops. It was reported yesterday that the United States has carried out a counterstrike. The SDF has also reported drone attacks from hostile groups in Eastern Syria killed six of its fighters. The United States's Commitment To The SDF Adi has also stated that "From their (the U.S.) side, they confirmed they would try and expend efforts to prevent these attacks." The Pentagon has yet to confirm this statement at the time of writing. The United States and SDF have been working with one another for quite some time at this point. According to the report the SDF holds a quarter of Syria which includes oil fields and areas where an estimated 900 United States troops are stationed. There have been rumors circulating that the United States might pull out of the region soon but, those rumors were shut down following a statement from Adi that he received a statement from the State Department, White House and, the Pentagon that their mission would continue. That being said, Adi has also acknowledged that a withdrawal is bound to happen stating that it "is possible in the future... Truthfully, we don't ask for American troops to stay here forever. That's not possible." In addition, Adi stated, "If American forces do withdraw, depending on the circumstances, naturally we will go towards the plans that suit the interests of our people and the make-up of the region." HENDERSONVILLE - Nine members have been named to the city of Hendersonvilles new Affordable Housing Steering Committee and will soon begin work on a strategic housing plan. Hendersonville City Council member Lyndsey Simpson, who asked in January to form the committee, presented a list of nine names to council members during its meeting on Feb. 7. The City of Hendersonville Operations Center is the site of the Hendersonville City Council meetings. Simpson said she felt the participants made for a really well-rounded group, with representatives from the Housing Assistance Corp., WNC Source, the Home Builders Association, Pisgah Legal Services, the Tourism Development Authority, a realtor, and the Hendersonville Housing Authority. The Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development will also have a representative on the committee, and Simpson said the ninth member should come from the county. Councilwoman Jennifer Hensley suggested Bill Lapsley be the county appointee, and his name was added to the list. Along with Lapsley, council members unanimously agreed to name Sarah Cosgrove, Robert Hooper, Jennifer Duvall, Hilary Paradise, Madeline Offen, Debi Smith, Connie Stewart and a representative from the Partnership for Economic Development to the committee. Council also agreed Simpson and Hensley should serve as the councils non-voting representatives, with Councilwoman Debbie Roundtree serving as an alternate. The committees goal is to select and work with a consultant to develop an affordable housing strategic plan. The committee will meet soon and select a chairperson, City Manager John Connet said. The meetings will be open to the public. Hendersonville named Age-Friendly Community In early January, the city of Hendersonville agreed to apply for membership in the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities. On Wednesday, the city was presented with a certificate of membership by Rebecca Chaplin, AARP associate state director of AARPs North Carolina Mountain Region. The city of Hendersonville is the 17th emerging community in North Carolina and the 833rd nationwide to join the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities, she told the council. Hendersonville was an age-friendly community before this designation, with multiple efforts and investments that make your city a safer place to live and age. May your membership in this network further the commitment that you already hold. The AARP network provides a structure and process to help guide change, Chaplin said, adding that membership means support and access to resources such as research, best practices and planning models. But this is your community and youre doing great work, and Im proud to present this certification to you here today, she added. In other business, the council did the following: Honored the Water and Sewer crew of Brad Duncan, Jonathan Owen, James Clugh, Caleb Smathers, Brian McCall, Peyton Blackwell, Tommy Sheehan and Chase Dowdy as MVP of the Year for 2023. Each will receive $100 and their names will be added to the MVP of the Year plaque. In 2023, 196 employees were nominated for MVP and each quarter three were chosen as quarterly MVPs. The Water and Sewer crew was chosen as the overall MVP of the Year in recognition of its efforts when a trench at a construction site collapsed in October, trapping two workers. Read a proclamation declaring February as Black History Month in the city. The proclamation urges residents to celebrate the history and contributions of African-Americans in our community who have been vital to the growth and development and commit to becoming an inclusive community in which all citizens - past, present and future - are respected. Unanimously approved a request to rezone a .44-acre lot at 116 Stewart St. from R-15/ Medium Density Residential to Greenville Highway Mixed Use. Unanimously approved a request to rezone a .52-acre lot at 799 South Grove St. from R-15/ Medium Density Residential to C-2 Secondary Business. This article originally appeared on Hendersonville Times-News: City Council selects 9 to new Affordable Housing Steering Committee Suella Braverman praised the beautiful Hampshire countryside of the South Downs and New Forest - Stefan Rousseau/PA The British countryside is not racist, Suella Braverman has said following claims from a group of wildlife charities that it is a racist and colonial space. Wildlife and Countryside Link, a charity umbrella group whose members include the RSPCA, WWF and National Trust, made the claim in evidence provided to Parliament on racism and its influence on the natural world. But Mrs Braverman, the former home secretary, rebuffed the claims on social media and wrote: No, the countryside is not racist. Since my childhood, Ive spent countless holidays camping, trekking, fruit-picking, orienteering and enjoying the British countryside. My ethnicity never posed a problem. Mrs Braverman, 43, is of Indian origin, with her family belonging to the Indian diaspora. Her mother and father immigrated to the UK from Mauritius and Kenya respectively in the 1960s. She continued: The great thing about the UK is that people are welcome if they have a positive attitude and respect others. Lets keep it that way by focusing on character, not skin colour. Mrs Braverman, who is the MP for Fareham, in Hampshire, added: Other than the beautiful Hampshire countryside of the South Downs and New Forest, the Brecon Beacons is my absolute favourite. But reaching the summit of Glenshee was amazing too. The Wildlife and Countryside Link report was submitted to MPs on the all-party parliamentary group for race and community in response to a call for evidence on links between systemic racism and climate change. One section of the report argued: Cultural barriers reflect that in the UK, it is White British cultural values that have been embedded into the design and management of green spaces, and into societys expectations of how people should be engaging with them. Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones said those researching alleged racism tend to be from white liberal backgrounds - Michaela Pain Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones, the founder of The Black Farmer food range, has also slammed the charitys comments. He said that people researching alleged racism tend to be from white liberal backgrounds and are always pushing the narrative that blacks are victims. He added: That is my greatest frustration if youre black, somehow youve got to be a victim of something. Its going to perpetuate the idea that parts of Britain are a no-go area for people from a certain background. People might assume its racist, but they are listening to the narrative I could tell them the reality. Mr Emmanuel-Jones, 66, was born in Jamaica and moved to the UK in the early 1960s. He grew up in the Small Heath area of Birmingham, harbouring a dream of owning land in the countryside. After working in television, he began farming land on the border of Devon and Cornwall at St Giles on the Heath, and was awarded an MBE in the 2020 New Year Honours for services to British farming. He added: You cant go to rural Britain and expect it to be the same as being in an urban environment, but because its different doesnt mean its racist. If you want to advance diversity in this country, you cant keep presenting the countryside as racist. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. SAN DIEGO (Border Report) Couples who want to get married during a mass-wedding ceremony in Tijuana on Valentines Day are encouraged to register by Saturday at Tijuanas city hall. Angelica Felix Dominguez, with the city of Tijuana, said recent rains have kept a lot of people from applying. Many have chosen not to go outside and stay home, thats why we decided to extend the deadline through February 10, said Felix Dominguez. Well be here through 2 p.m. on Friday and from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday. She said so far, 1,300 couples had registered to celebrate their marriage vows on the day of love and friendship. Last year, 1,500 couples took the plunge during a similar large-scale ceremony. Felix Dominguez is also encouraging same-sex couples to participate. We are an inclusive government where everyone in the community, regardless of sexual orientation, can be married without a problem and with the same registration requirements as any other couple. The mass-wedding celebration will take place on Wednesday at noon at Morelos Park in the city of Tijuana. It is located at Avenida Insurgentes 16000 in the Rio Zone about 10 minutes from the border. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. The Supreme Court appears ready to dismiss efforts to remove former President Donald Trump from the 2024 ballot. Both conservative and liberal justices seem to be in agreement, as they find themselves at the center of a crucial presidential election case. A decisive decision regarding Trump, the frontrunner for the Republican presidential nomination, would effectively put an end to the attempts in Colorado, Maine, and other places to block his inclusion on the ballot. US Supreme Court Justices Skeptical of Disqualifying Trump From Ballot The justices may take swift action, potentially by Super Tuesday on March 5th, when Colorado, Maine, and 13 other states are scheduled to hold primaries. Both conservative and liberal justices raised concerns during the arguments on Thursday regarding the possibility of disqualifying Trump from running for president again. They specifically focused on his attempts to overturn his loss in the 2020 election to Joe Biden, which culminated in the attack on the US Capitol on January 6, 2021. Per AP News, their primary focus revolved around the question of whether Congressional action is required prior to states invoking a constitutional provision established after the Civil War. This provision aims to prohibit former officeholders who participated in insurrection from holding office again. There were also inquiries regarding the president's eligibility under the provision. In a groundbreaking decision, the Colorado Supreme Court has determined that Section 3 of the 14th amendment can be invoked in the case of Trump, who has been found responsible for inciting the Capitol attack. However, it seems that the Supreme Court is inclined to steer clear of cases where it has to make the final decision on political disputes. In this particular case, the justices seemed to be looking for a ruling that everyone could agree on, and the idea of congressional action garnered the most support. Justice Elena Kagan, along with other justices, expressed curiosity about the rationale behind allowing a single state to determine the President of the United States. The case, titled Donald J Trump v Norma Anderson et al, has been ongoing. According to the provision, individuals who are sworn to defend the constitution but later participate in insurrection are prohibited from holding office. A two-thirds vote by both chambers of Congress is required to override the ban.The Colorado voters argued in their lawsuit, filed last year in state court, that Trump's behavior during the January 6 Capitol attack renders him unfit for federal office. Following a five-day trial, a judge determined that Trump had participated in insurrection. However, the judge concluded that Trump did not hold the position of a "officer of the United States" and therefore chose not to disqualify him from the ballot. In a December ruling, the Colorado supreme court made a 4-3 decision to reverse the previous ruling, ultimately preventing him. Read Also: Special Counsel Says Biden 'Willfully Retained and Disclosed Classified Materials' Will Trump be Removed From Ballot Nationwide? In January, the US supreme court agreed to hear the case.A significant portion of the discussion on Thursday revolved around the question of whether states possess the authority to independently enforce section 3 and disqualify a candidate from the ballot without the need for Congress to first enact a statute with an enforcement mechanism. Several lawsuits have been filed in an attempt to remove Trump from the ballot, but only Colorado and Maine have succeeded in doing so. Last month, a judge in Maine issued an order to the secretary of state, instructing them to refrain from excluding Trump until a decision was made by the US supreme court. Many experts argue that Trump holds a significant advantage in the court due to the conservative supermajority of 6-3, with three justices being nominated by Trump himself. During their briefing to the supreme court, Trump's lawyers have expressed concerns about potential disruptions and disorder in the US if a prominent presidential candidate is prevented from appearing on the ballot. An array of arguments was presented to the justices, highlighting reasons why he should not be disqualified. These included the assertion that the term "officer" does not encompass the president and the claim that he did not partake in insurrection. The Colorado supreme court's ruling, if upheld, would not result in an automatic removal of Trump from the ballot nationwide, as per The Guardian. Although certain states have resisted attempts to exclude Trump from the primary ballot, a ruling from the supreme court that he can be disqualified would likely trigger a rapid series of challenges in state courts and other tribunals to prevent him from appearing on the general election ballot. Related Article: Supreme Court Debates Removal of Trump from Ballot Following Capitol Attack A 40-year-old dad without custody took off in a stolen car from Michigan to Arkansas with his 5-year-old son, Arkansas State Police said. The man had the boy without permission from the childs mother, who is the legal guardian, police said. McClatchy News is not identifying the name of the suspect to protect the identity of the child. Police spotted the stolen vehicle on the interstate near Sweet Home on Feb. 3. Keeping the childs safety in mind, officers surrounded the vehicle with multiple cars, slowly bringing it to a stop, police dash camera video shows. Many of our Troopers are parents themselves, so securing a child and returning him to his mother was an honor, police Col. Mike Hagar said in a news release. Keeping innocent civilians safe is always our top priority. The man was arrested and charged with theft, according to police. Kidnapping charges are still pending, police said. Attorney information for the man was not listed. The child was taken by police and was able to speak to his mother, police said. He was released to the Arkansas Department of Human Services until his mother could travel from Michigan to Arkansas, police said. The 5-year-old has safely returned to Michigan with his mother, according to police. Sweet Home is about 7 miles southeast of Little Rock. School bus flips in crash, injuring 4 middle schoolers, Maryland cops say. Terrifying Juvenile inmate allegedly strangled by staff member at Cabarrus County facility 1 deputy killed, 1 wounded by armed and dangerous driver still at large, TN cops say Dakota Johnson has revealed her uncomfortable experience on the set of The Office finale, claiming that no one wanted to talk to her during the shoot. Recalling her brief stint at Dunder Mifflin, the Fifty Shades of Grey star said it was the worst time of my life citing weird dynamics on the set, during an interview on Late Night with Seth Meyers. As Meyers asked whether members of the cast had felt sad at its ending, Johnson responded: They were sad. There were also weird dynamics that had been going on for the last 10 years. Some people didnt speak to each other and Im coming in like Im so excited to be here! And no one wanted to talk to me. No one gave a f***, she laughed. Johnson, who was a longtime fan of the hit TV series, said she had been invited to appear on the show and thought filming would take half a day but ended up lasting two weeks. And Im barely in the f***ing show! she joked. Dakota Johnson played accountant Kevins replacement in the final episode (NBC/The Office) The final series of The Office aired on May 2013 ending after eight years and nine seasons, helping to launch the careers of castmembers including Mindy Kaling (The Mindy Project) and Ellie Kemper (The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt). Several castmembers made guest appearances for the final episode, including original regional manager of Dunder Mifflin, Steve Carrell as Michael Scott, as well as others including BJ Novak, Mindy Kaling and John Cusack. Johnson had her breakthrough role in the Fifty Shades of Grey franchise in 2015 and has since gone on to star in feature films including Persuasion, The Lost Daughter, and 2022s Cha Cha Real Smooth, which she also produced under her company TeaTime Pictures. Dakota Johnson discusses her experience on The Office on Late Night with Seth Meyers (NBC) She will soon star in Marvels newest superhero caper, Madame Web, as a woman named Cassandra Webb who acquires special powers after an accident. Johnson was recently applauded for her stoic responses to an awkward interview where she was asked about a line in the movie which had been the subject of memes and jokes online. Despite Russia's claims, there were no Ukrainian prisoners of war on the downed Russian Il-76 transport plane that crashed on Jan. 24, National Security and Defense Council Secretary Oleksii Danilov told Babel in an interview that was published on Feb. 9. "I can definitely tell you that our prisoners were not there," said Danilov during the interview. A Russian Il-76 transport aircraft crashed in Russia's Belgorod Oblast on Jan. 24, which Russia claimed was transporting 65 Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) for an exchange. Russia has yet to provide evidence that there were any POWs on the downed aircraft. After Russia began circulating its claims, Ukraine requested that Russia return the bodies of the killed POWs home. Russia's government never responded to the appeal. Russia also reportedly blocked the International Committee of Red Cross from investigating the circumstances of the crash. In response to Russia's claim, Danilov accused Russia of fabricating the story, adding that if Ukrainian POWs were on the plane, Russia would have filmed evidence of the crash site for propaganda purposes. Danilov said that "biological material" would have been present in large quantities, as there was at the crash site of downed Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 in 2020. "There was nothing like that there; they had the whole story prepared," Danilov said. "They have nothing to show because if this had really happened, the picture would have been completely different." Anonymously U.S. officials told The New York Times that an American-made Patriot missile system was likely responsible for the plane crash. According to the officials, the plane was also likely carrying at least some Ukrainian prisoners. U.S. officials report that Ukraine likely acted on weak intelligence as the plane was previously used to transport missiles, making it a valuable target for Ukraine's military. Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) has opened a criminal case into the matter. Read also: NYT: American officials confirm Patriot missile shot down Il-76 plane Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The first set of A-10 Warthogs from the 355th Wing at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, have moved to the boneyard after nearly a half-century of flight. Both of the aircraft, which belonged to the 354th Fighter Squadron, didnt have to go far to retire, according to an announcement Thursday. The second of the two aircraft taxied to its final resting place on Tuesday at the 309th Aircraft Maintenance and Regeneration Group, otherwise known as the boneyard. Davis-Monthan retired its first Warthog about two weeks earlier. Davis-Monthan to launch new special operations wing as A-10 retires The 355th Wing plans to retire the squadron through the fall as part of the Air Forces plan to replace its aging fleet of Warthog attack planes with more advanced fighter jets by the end of the decade. The A-10 has been the symbol of Davis-Monthan Air Force Base for many years, and it will continue to be a symbol for the airmen of [Davis-Monthan], a symbol of their commitment, excellence and service, 355th Wing Commander Col. Scott Mills, an A-10 pilot, said in the release. Davis-Monthans fleet of Warthogs now includes 76 of the aircraft across three squadrons, which will eventually disband. Maintainers and pilots will transfer to other units across the service, some of which fly the F-35. As the older planes are phased out, the 492nd Special Operations Wing is slated to move from Hurlburt Field, Florida, to Davis-Monthan. The 492nd is one of three wings being reshaped into power projection wings that will combine a range of special operations missions, including airborne strike and surveillance and ground forces. Under that plan, Davis-Monthan expects to add the MC-130 airlifter and the OA-1K counterterrorism aircraft. Heres how Air Force special ops power projection wings will work The Air Force retired 21 A-10 aircraft in fiscal 2023 from the 122nd Fighter Wing at Fort Wayne Air National Guard Base, Indiana, bringing its A-10 inventory from 281 to 260, Air Combat Command told Air Force Times Friday. The service has divested five of the aircraft so far in fiscal 2024, including those at Davis-Monthan, and plans to reduce its stock of Warthogs to 218 by the end of the year. Thirty-six of those aircraft will come from Davis-Monthan, with the remainder from Moody Air Force Base, Georgia. Davis-Monthan received its first A-10 in 1976. Protests during the rally against the war in Gaza at Birmingham University University students have chanted death to Zionists in the latest anti-Semitism row on a British campus. Jewish students at the University of Birmingham have spoken of their fear after activists held up a banner which said Zionists off our campus and allegedly chanted death to Zionists at a rally that took place on campus on Wednesday. The rally was part of a day of action organised by the Stop the War coalition and Palestine Solidarity campaign, according to the Jewish Chronicle. Students across the country took part in walkouts and occupied buildings. Jewish student groups issued a statement afterwards saying that safety on campus had been broken. The Union of Jewish Students (UJS) and the University of Birminghams Jewish Society said: Were scared and were heartbroken. This anti-Semitic hatred has been allowed to fester on our campus for too long. The University of Birmingham must take action now. The Campaign Against Antisemitism (CAA) also spoke out, saying in a post on social media: @UniBirmingham claims that it offers a welcoming and supportive environment. It doesnt look that way. We urgently look forward to hearing how this will be addressed. Jews have called for action from Birmingham University amid concerns over safety at the campus Sir Simon Schama, who specialises in Jewish history, tweeted: They must understand that means anyone believing in Israels right to exist thats what a Zionist is is banned from this university. He added: Judenrein in Birmingham a reference to the Nazi term used to describe an area in which Jews had been murdered during the Holocaust. The scenes in Birmingham are the latest in a string of anti-Semitism rows across university campuses, following the Hamas terror attack on Israel on Oct 7. Last month, a pro-Palestine speaker told students at City, University of London, that the Nazis were good for Zionists because they promoted ideas of separatism. A university spokesman said the comment, made by Dr Ranjeet Brar, a leading figure in the British Communist Party, breached its code of practice. The row comes after a tribunal ruled that anti-Zionism can be classified as a protected philosophical belief under the 2010 Equality Act. Prof David Miller, who was sacked from Bristol University for his anti-Zionist views, was unfairly dismissed, a tribunal found last week. Prof Miller successfully claimed discrimination based on his philosophical belief that Zionism is inherently racist, imperialist and colonial. Protester left their mark on the Birmingham campus following Wednesday's 'day of action' Lawyers representing Prof Miller said the judgment established for the first time that anti-Zionist beliefs are protected in the workplace. Prof Miller was employed by Bristol University as a professor of political sociology in 2018, until he was dismissed in 2021. Palestine Solidarity Campaign and Stop The War Coalition were approached for comment. Birmingham University said it was undertaking a swift review and investigation into the events which took place on campus on Wednesday, including taking external advice. A spokesman added: The university is committed to freedom of speech and the right to peaceful protest. However, this must be carried out safely, respectfully and within the law, and we have established processes to enable this to happen. The university approved an application under its freedom of speech code of practice by the local branch of the UCU to undertake a silent vigil on Wednesday. The so-called student walkout began immediately after this and was not approved by the university. We had no contact from the organisers, and they did not seek permission for the event. It is also our understanding that the organisers are not a current recognised student society. The protest was attended by approximately 50 people and lasted for less than one hour. Our priority is to ensure the safety of all our community. While we acknowledge that our students and staff hold a range of opinions about the politics and geopolitics of Israel and Palestine, we expect that they engage with each other in a respectful manner. We unequivocally condemn anti-Semitism, Islamophobia and hate speech, and do not tolerate discrimination on campus. We are in close contact with our Guild of Students, and student and staff groups and networks to ensure that they feel supported. Students and staff can access support and report any instances of harassment through our online portal. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. U.S. President Joe Biden shares his sharpest criticism against Israel's military operations in the Gaza Strip. He made his remark as he tries pushing for a hostage ceasefire in the Palestinian city. During a White House conference on Thursday, Feb. 8, the American leader said that what Israel is currently doing in the Palestinian territory is already "over the top." Critics said that this is the sharpest criticism made by Joe Biden regarding the military operations of Israel in Gaza to date. Joe Biden Offers Sharpest Criticism of Israel's Operations in Gaza As U.S. President Joe Biden seeks a ceasefire to ensure the safety of hostages in the Gaza Strip, he decided to rebuke Israel's military campaign. "I'm of the view, as you know, that the conduct of the response in the Gaza Strip has been over the top," said the American president via The Guardian. Joe Biden added that he had been making efforts to encourage a hostage ceasefire between Israel and Hamas terrorists, as well as push a deal to normalize Saudi Arabia-Israel relations. Aside from this, he also wants to increase humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip who are caught up in the Israel-Hamas war. "I'm pushing very hard now to deal with this hostage ceasefire," said the U.S. president. "There are a lot of innocent people who are starving, a lot of innocent people who are in trouble and dying, and it's gotta stop," added Joe Biden. But, what does his latest criticism against the military operations of the Israel Defense Forces in Gaza? Read Also: Israel's Netanyahu Rejects Hamas Hostage Deal Amid Coalition Rifts Joe Biden's Stance in Israel-Hamas War is Changing According to CNN Politics' latest report, the latest criticism and assessment shared by the American leader regarding the Israeli military operations show that Biden's stance in the war is changing. When Hamas terrorists conducted their deadly attack on October 7, 2023, the Biden Administration had embraced the efforts of Israel to defend its people. Aside from this, Joe Biden also supports Israel's right to go after Hamas terrorists by officially declaring war against them. However, because IDF's military operations endanger the lives of innocent Palestinian civilians, numerous American officials are against its campaign. Now, the U.S. president and his team are also becoming more and more irritated as Israel continues to reject a two-state solution in the Gaza Strip. Related Article: US Funding for UNWRA Blocked in Senate, Raises Alarm on Palestinians Amid Gaza Conflict DECATUR, Ala. (WHNT) The Decatur Police Department (DPD) says it has arrested a man on drug trafficking charges after a search of his home on Thursday. DPD said Demichael Deshun Mason, of Decatur, was arrested Thurday and charged with trafficking in fentanyl, trafficking methamphetamine and a certain person prohibited from possessing a firearm. SPD: Hillcrest motel owner killed Thursday morning identified, 34-year-old arrested The department said that narcotics investigators had recently opened an investigation on drug trafficking involving a man identified as Mason. Authorities said Mason also had active arrest warrants with the department. Decatur police said on Thursday officers executed a search warrant at Masons home in the 700 block of Cedar Lake Road SW. During that search officers found around one pound of meth, over 500 fentanyl pills, a gun and an amount of U.S. currency that authorities say was determined to be proceeds from drug sales. Authorities said Mason was taken into custody and taken to the Morgan County Jail. He is being held on a $600,000 bond. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. Defense Minister Rustem Umerov introduced the new Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, at a meeting of the General Staff, he stated on Facebook on Feb. 9. "As a Minister of Defense, I guarantee all possible support for the actions and decisions of the Commander of the Armed Forces, Umerov wrote. Our defense is in good hands," he added. Read also: Zaluzhnyi steps down as Commander-in-Chief, replaced by Syrskyi The Minister thanked Syrysky's predecessor, General Valerii Zaluzhnyi, who also attended the meeting, "for his leadership in difficult times and all the work he has done." Earlier, Syrsky outlined his main tasks, including: planning the actions of all military command taking into account the needs of the frontline for advanced weapons availability of data on all the needs of the front and the situation in each area a balance between combat missions and the recovery of units and subdivisions with enhanced training and education introduction of new technical solutions, scaling up the use of unmanned systems and electronic warfare Read also: General Syrskyi is willing to engage the enemy, even if the cost in men and machines is high the Economist On Feb. 8, Zelenskyy issued a decree dismissing Valerii Zaluzhnyi from the post of commander-in-chief, which he held for more than two and a half years, and appointing Oleksandr Syrskyi to replace him. The President announced the decision after a week of rumors about Zaluzhnyi's resignation and reports of a conflict with the commander-in-chief. These rumors began to appear in November 2023, following two resonant articles by Time and The Economist and a series of events that followed them. Zelenskyy's office has consistently denied these reports. WP reported that the reason for the possible resignation was the disagreement that arose from different views on mobilization in Ukraine. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine Democrats and their allies were shaping a damage control response on Friday to a hastily organized White House press call the night before that appeared to fall short in its mission to reassure voters about Joe Bidens mental acuity after it was harshly questioned in a prosecutors report about his having kept classified documents at the end of his vice-presidency. Related: Trump is too old and incited a coup. Biden is too old and mixes up names. America, how to choose? | Marina Hyde Biden already said that his interview with the special counsel Robert Hur last October in which he was reported to have forgotten the year his son Beau died and precisely when he had been vice-president came in the days straight after Hamas attacked southern Israel, when Biden was preoccupied with the US response. Hurs report concluded on Thursday that Biden would not face criminal charges in the case, despite willfully retaining and disclosing classified material, which he would not be open to as a sitting president anyway but also would not be warranted even if he was no longer president. But Hur then went on to describe at length how he found the US presidents memory to be failing, prompting anger from Biden and, in the following hours and into Friday, Democrats and aides to come to his defense. The way that the presidents demeanor in that report was characterized could not be more wrong on the facts and clearly politically motivated, Kamala Harris told MSNBC on Friday. The vice-president slammed claims of Bidens failing mental acuity made in the 388-pages report as gratuitous, inaccurate and inappropriate. Earlier, Democratic Senator Tammy Baldwin from the crucial swing state of Wisconsin addressed the conclusions by special counsel Robert Hur that the 81-year-old presidents recall was significantly limited, and that Hur would not bring charges over classified documents in part because jurors would see the US president not as a willful criminal but as a well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory. I judge a president on what theyve done and whose side theyre on, Baldwin told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. She pointed to Bidens strong record of creating good-paying jobs, rebuilding our infrastructure, and lowering prescription drug prices. Tommy Vietor, a former Obama administration staffer, wrote on X that the prosecutors comments were just a rightwing hit job from within Bidens own DOJ. Wild. On MSNBC, which often previews the Democratic party line, the host Joe Scarborough addressed the conclusions by the special counsel that the presidents recall was significantly limited and he would not bring charges over classified documents in part because jurors would see Biden as a well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory, not a criminal. So bizarre, Scarborough said. Why in the world would [Hur] put his neurological assessment of Joe Biden in his report, and why would [US attorney general] Merrick Garland release garbage like that in a justice department report? Dan Goldman, the Democratic congressman from New York, told the station that he did not have any concerns about Bidens age or ability. Remember, the job of the president is to guide our country. It is not to be a cheerleader for the United States. It is to govern our country, he said. Referring to missing Hillary Clinton emails that became an issue on the eve of the 2016 election, Scarborough added: It sure sounds like James Comey in 2016 when he couldnt indict Hillary Clinton legally so he indicted her politically. Vietor echoed that line, claiming Hur had clearly decided to go down the Jim Comey path of filling his report absolving Biden of criminal activity with ad hominem attacks. The long-shot Democratic primary challenger Dean Phillips, who is campaigning against Biden, said Hurs report had all but handed the 2024 election to Donald Trump. The report simply affirms what most Americans already know, that the President cannot continue to serve as our Commander-in-Chief beyond his term ending January 20, 2025, Phillips said in a statement. Behind closed doors, some Democrats expressed mounting concerns about a re-election narrative that focuses on Bidens age. Its a nightmare, a Democratic House member reportedly told NBC News. It weakens President Biden electorally, and Donald Trump would be a disaster and an authoritarian. For Democrats, were in a grim situation, the anonymous source reportedly added. Biden hit back at Hurs characterization of his mental condition during a surprise press conference at the White House on Thursday evening. The president maintained that his memory was just fine and in a tense exchange said I know what the hell Im doing and that remarks about his memory had no place in this report. My memory is fine, Biden said. Take a look at what Ive done since Ive become president. For any extraneous commentary, they dont know what theyre talking about, he added. It has no place in this report. At the end of the interview, he referred to Egypts president, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, as the president of Mexico in a response to a reporters query about the current situation in the Middle East. The error came after two other public gaffes this week in which Biden claimed to have spoken recently with two long-dead European leaders, Germanys Helmut Kohl and Frances Francois Mitterrand. Polling has consistently shown that concerns about Bidens age are seen as his greatest political liability in a rematch with Donald Trump. A poll by NBC News last month found that 76% of voters had major or moderate concerns when asked whether Biden has the necessary mental and physical health to be president for a second term. Asked the same question about the 77-year-old Trump, 48% said they had major or moderate concerns. People march on the Chain Bridge during a protest to demand the resignation of Hungarian President Katalin Novak at Sandor Palace. Marton Monus/dpa Thousands of demonstrators turned out in Budapest on Friday evening to demand the ouster of Hungarian President Katalin Novak over how she handled a pardon in connection with a case involving the abuse of children. It recently became known that Novak pardoned a man who had been legally convicted of aiding and abetting the sexual abuse of children and young people. Novak did not give a reason for the controversial pardon. The man she pardoned was the deputy head of a children's home in Bicske near Budapest. According to the court ruling, he forced children to recant their testimonies as victims of abuse against the director of the home in order to exonerate his boss. The home director was sentenced to eight years in prison. His pardoned deputy received a prison sentence of three years and four months. The pardon had already taken place in May 2023, on the occasion of Pope Francis' visit to Budapest. Prime Minister Viktor Orban submitted a proposal to parliament on Thursday evening to change the Hungarian constitution so that in future, criminals whose crimes victimize children should generally not be pardoned. This was the first time Orban has ever distanced himself from Novak, the former vice president of his ruling populist national-conservative Fidesz party. She promised to support the proposed constitutional amendment. At the close of Friday's demonstration, called by the Momentum opposition party as well as student associations, the angry crowd threw numerous stuffed animals in front of the door of the presidential palace in Budapest's Castle District as a symbol of children in danger. Protesters take part in a protest against Hungarian President Katalin Novak decision to pardon a man in a case of child sexual abuse. Marton Monus/dpa Protesters lay down stuffed animals during a protest against Hungarian President Katalin Novak decision to pardon a man in a case of child sexual abuse. Marton Monus/dpa Protesters lay down stuffed animals during a protest against Hungarian President Katalin Novak decision to pardon a man in a case of child sexual abuse. Marton Monus/dpa Denmark's King Frederik X (L) and Queen Mary (R) kiss on the balcony after the proclamation of the accession to the throne at Christiansborg Palace Square in Copenhagen in January. Their son, Crown Prince Christian, 18, may again act as Denmark's leader during his parents state visits which start in May. File Photo by Bo Amstrup/UPI Feb. 9 (UPI) -- The royal palace in Copenhagen announced Friday that Denmark's new king and queen will tour their realm and neighboring countries in their first official state visits to the two other nations as Denmark's new heads of state. King Frederik X and Queen Mary will first visit Sweden, Norway, then Greenland and the Faroe Islands which are also two territories of the Danish kingdom. "The first state visits will provide the occasion for the new king and queen to meet with the sovereigns in Sweden and Norway, and they will thus mark the close relations between the Nordic monarchies. The royal couple will travel aboard the Royal Yacht Dannebrog which will serve as their primary residence for the duration of the trip through Sweden from May 6-7, Norway May 14-15, and their "tentative" visit to the Faroe Islands June 11-14 and then Greenland June 29-July 8. Frederik took the throne in January after his mother the former Queen Margarethe II's surprise announcement that she would step down from the throne after gaining the distinction of being Denmark's second longest-serving monarch when she took the throne from her father -- the late King Christian X -- in 1972. King Charles III (L) speaks to then-Crown Princess Mary and then-Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark at Buckingham Palace while attending Charles' May 2023 coronation in London, England. Charles and Frederik are cousins by blood along with multiple other European royal houses such as Spain, Belgium, Sweden and Norway. Photo by The Royal Family/UPI Following the 2022 death of Britain's late Queen Elizabeth II and the assumption of the throne by now King Charles III -- also cousins to the royal families of Denmark, Sweden and Norway -- Margarethe's abdication in Denmark followed a series of royal recusals in recent years after Japan's now ex-Emperor Akihito in 2019 and Spain's former King Juan Carlos in 2014. While the former queen Margrethe continues to be addressed as "Her Majesty" and is able to step in for King Frederik X to act as the country's regent, or acting head of state, the new king's son -- Crown Prince Christian -- is likely to act as the country's leader in his father's place during his parents trip which will start at the beginning of May. MARYVILLE, Tenn. (WJW) A statewide alert has been issued in Tennessee for an armed and dangerous man who is wanted in the shooting of two sheriffs deputies during a traffic stop. We had an officer killed tonight, Blount County Sheriff James Berrong said in an emotional press conference Thursday night. Some Precious Moments figurines could be worth thousands of dollars Deputy Greg McCowan was killed, the sheriff said. Deputy Shelby Eggers returned fire and was injured. According to the sheriff, the deputies pulled over Kenneth DeHarts vehicle around 8:30 p.m. Thursday in Maryville. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation reports DeHart refused to get out of the car. TBI said one of deputies deployed a Taser to no effect. At some point, officials said DeHart pulled a gun and opened fire, but theyre still sorting out details as to what led to the shooting and the traffic stop. No explanation: Inside Northeast Ohios miracle house Im so sorry that we lost him, Berrong said. I talked to his family earlier. I apologize for not protecting him. Deputy McCowan was a hero both in life and in his death, the sheriffs office wrote on social media. DeHart is wanted on warrants for murder and attempted first degree murder. The sheriffs office is asking people in the area to check their surveillance cameras for any clues. A $10,000 reward is being offered for DeHarts arrest. Anyone with information is asked to call 1-800-TBI-FIND. Construction worker killed in foundation collapse McGowan was 43 and had been with the sheriffs office since 2020. He leaves behind two children, a granddaughter, his mother and father and his fiance, the sheriff said. Deputy Eggers was treated and released from the hospital. She has been with the force since 2019. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. An international group of detectives led by the Dutch police and Europol has tracked the location of eight Ukrainian children deported by the Russians. They used open digital sources. Six non-governmental organisations and about 60 detectives and investigators from 23 countries, among them Australia, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, the UK and the US, participated in the search operation. Source: Dutch media outlet AD Details: The operation was carried out in the Europol headquarters in The Hague. The group searched for the children using satellite images, face recognition systems and other digital methods. Vincent Cillessen, the head of the International Crimes Department of the National Investigations Department of the Dutch police, said it was the first time such cooperation between international experts in the sector of open digital sources took place. They united their efforts for the first time to search for the information about the kidnapping of Ukrainian children. "We did not expect this first joint hackathon [an event during which different experts in the software development sector jointly work on solving a problem ed.] to give results right away. We wanted to learn from one another and exchange our skills but everyone adjusted very quickly. Taking the success into account, we want to do it more frequently, at least once a year," Cillessen explained. The detectives looked for the data, which would help them track the exact location of the eight deported children, in open sources. They used extended face recognition in order to find the most recent images of the children, and geolocation experts detected the places where they were photographed. The detectives state that eight kidnapped children are orphans, and that they were forcibly deported to the temporarily occupied territories and kept there for propaganda. For security reasons the information about the children was not disclosed but handed over to the Ukrainian authorities instead. "We hope that Ukrainians will use this information somehow and bring these children back. But without knowing where these children are they cannot start this process," Cillessen said. Previously: A young man suffering from diabetes kidnapped by the Russians was brought back to Ukraine from Crimea. Support UP or become our patron! Investigators detailed three felony charges against Former Manatee County Administrator Scott Hopes in newly released investigative documents. The State Attorneys Office announced third-degree felony charges against Hopes on Thursday for grand theft, notary fraud and improper use of public records. A Manatee County Sheriffs Office probable cause affidavit detailed those allegations. Deputies arrested and booked Hopes, 63, into the Manatee County Jail Thursday, according to the sheriffs office website. Hopes was released from jail Thursday after posting a $75,000 bond. The sheriffs office began investigating Hopes last March after receiving a criminal complaint regarding a public records request. In November, deputies announced that they recommended charges against Hopes, but the case was passed to the State Attorneys Office to determine if those charges would be filed. Hopes, who previously served on the School Board of Manatee County, became the county administrator in April 2021. With little explanation, he resigned last February after less than two years on the job. Manatee County Government officials said Hopes departure was a voluntary resignation. His separation agreement included 120 days of severance pay, six months of health benefits and one year of deferred compensation. Hopes made an annual salary of $215,000 as county administrator. After he resigned from his county position, AeroVanti, a private jet club, selected Hopes as CEO, but he was replaced a short time later. The company has since become embroiled in lawsuits. Hopes did not respond to the Bradenton Heralds request for comment Friday afternoon. Notary fraud Hopes is charged with notary fraud as part of a wide-ranging scheme that repeatedly broke Florida law, according to the sheriffs office. The County Attorneys Office received a complaint about the process in April 2023, when a notary public said she found two documents on the Clerk of Courts website that were forged with her signature while she was on vacation. As county administrator, Hopes was tasked with signing official documents, which must be done in the presence of a certified notary public. According to current and former staffers who spoke with investigators, Hope rarely met with a notary public to sign documents because it was more effective and efficient to sign the documents when he had time and then have the documents notarized later. The sheriffs office said investigators found enough evidence to determine that Hopes, as the leader of the countys workforce, had mandated a process to intentionally and systematically subvert the laws of the State of Florida governing the institution of Notary Public by insisting he sign documents requiring notarization at his own leisure without a certified Notary Public and requisite witnesses immediately present on an ongoing basis. Grand theft and misusing public records Prosecutors allege that Hopes participated in grand theft by accepting nearly $13,000 in improper overtime pay from Manatee County Government. As county administrator, Hopes was an exempt administrative employee who was not allowed to earn overtime pay, according to federal law. But in three different instances, the sheriffs office found evidence to prove Hopes had been overpaid. The first overpayment came in Hopes first paycheck, investigators say. Hopes logged 106 hours worked likely due to the emergency response to a leak at Piney Point the sheriffs office said. But an emergency pay code for that event was not in effect, and Hopes should have only been eligible for 80 hours worked, according to the sheriffs office. In his first paycheck, Hopes was overpaid by $2,157.69, deputies said. Former Manatee County Administrator Scott Hopes, 63, has been charged with three third-degree felonies for grand theft, notary fraud and improper use of public records, prosecutors say. Hopes was arrested Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024, and released from the Manatee County Jail after posting $75,000 bond, according to the sheriffs office. The second overpayment came in October 2022, after Hopes submitted a time card reflecting 165.75 hours worked as part of the Hurricane Ian emergency response, according to an audit performed by the Manatee County Clerk of Courts Inspector Generals Office. After overpaying Hopes by about $15,000, county payroll staffers attempted to correct the issue and deducted $6,200 from his next paycheck, deputies say. According to an arrest report, the automatic correction happened because some exempt employees are allowed to receive one time their hourly rate during an emergency, but employees above the director rank, including Hopes, do not qualify for that benefit. In November 2022, as part of the countys emergency response to Hurricane Nicole, Hopes received a similar overpayment for hours worked, according to the sheriffs office. Prosecutors say Hopes improper time card resulted in an overpayment of $1,757.23. However, county operations were not suspended during the storm, and the use of an emergency pay code had not been authorized, deputies said. In total, Hopes was overpaid $12,778.52, without making proper notification of overpayment, according to the sheriffs office. Hopes claimed to have made notification of the error to Human Resources after he read his pay stub, but the approximate $11,000 overpayment for the two emergency events was never returned to the county coffers, deputies wrote in an arrest report. The third charge that prosecutors filed against Hopes, fraudulent use of public record, is linked to his improper time cards, according to the sheriffs office. What happens next? According to a sheriffs office report, deputies recommended charging Hopes with destruction of public records for clearing his county-issued iPhone and iPad ahead of his resignation last February. In an interview with deputies, Hopes said he wiped the devices because there were confidential alarm codes for certain county properties, such as the Powel Crosley Mansion, on the devices and that he did not trust IT with those codes, even though IT staffers already had access to them, according to the sheriffs office. By destroying said records, Hopes intentionally attempted to prevent its inspection, investigators wrote in an arrest report. Although confidential alarm codes may be considered exempt from public record requests, they are still public records. However, prosecutors declined to press charges linked to the alleged deletion of public records. Hopes is expected to appear in court for arraignment on April 5, according to court documents. Medical marijuana for ailing South Carolinians is back on the table. The proposed legislation has evolved as it has knocked at the State House doors for years. But whether it can get out of the Senate again, then pass the House remains to be seen. The Compassionate Care Act, S.423, would allow South Carolinians with certain conditions, such as cancer, multiple sclerosis or terminal illnesses to be prescribed certain forms of medicinal marijuana. The Senate fast tracked the legislation this week, sparking discussion over two days of back and forth debate on the issue. In 2022, the Senate passed a similar version of the bill, but it failed in the House on a technicality. The bill is considered conservative compared to other states medical marijuana laws, limiting the delivery method to topical, oral or vaporized products only. Burning the plant and smoking are prohibited Tom Davis, R-Beaufort, has been working on passing a medical marijuana bill for 10 years. and presented the bill Wednesday where he said he was confident it would pass in the Senate, but expected opponents to bring forth debate. Greg Hembree, a former prosecutor, said he felt the current bills 41 changes needed to be vetted by the Senate. He led a discussion with Senators on Thursday about the the changes and his other issues with the bill. Hembree, R-Horry, listed a handful of the differences, noting, for example, that the new bill removes the requirement for a physician to advise patient the variability, quantity and concentration of a product, as well as the potential psychotic disorders and adverse affects for children and young adults. It also changed the wording from requiring only pharmacists to dispense the medicine to allowing other person authorized to dispense medical cannabis, Hembree said. Law enforcement and distribution concerns were among other issues Hembree and opponents have with the bill. Hembree cited recreational use and the damage it can cause in young people. He also spoke to the potential misuse of the drug by doctors and the fiscal impact. It would be funny if it wasnt so sad ... a 420 doctor, Hembree said in reference to doctors and their websites in Florida who prescribe medical marijuana. Its funny except it tells you, what is this about. Its about the money. This is a money making proposition. I question this notion that every doctor will be doing this for the right reasons. Supporters of the bill like Davis argue this drug is needed, especially for terminally ill patients that have not found options that work for them to reduce pain. Davis said he would come back Tuesday ready to discuss a more clear side-by-side version of the 2024 and 2022 bills. Ultimately, he said he would be fine with reverting many of the changes that Hembree listed back to S. 150, because to him, they werent substantive. The bills only non-technical changes, Davis said Wednesday in an interview after session, is the revenue raising component. This version makes no reference of sales tax. The fees generated though medical marijuana sales can only defray the cost of the program, Davis added. I was disappointed that they ruled it out of order two years ago but look, thats their rules and we cured what I think down the line the problem was, Davis said in reference to the House decision. Davis said he believes the bill will pass the Senate. Hes hopeful the House will get the bill through committee and onto the floor, because he does think enough members would vote yes. The problem, however, is the number of opponents and proposed amendments during discussion, he said. The only way you can get to a vote on a bill when somebody is putting up a thousand amendments is for leadership to make clear that theyre going to sit there and work through them and theyre going to get to a vote on the bill, Davis said. Until leadership expresses that, it just gets carried over. Davis specifically mentioned Rep. John McCravy, R-Greenwood, who had put up amendments along with others against the bill in 2022. Its going to take leadership over there saying to the members its been ten years, we deserve a vote on this, and obviously thats up to the speaker whether to do that. I hope that he does. I think it deserves an up or down vote in the House, but thats not my territory thats his, Davis said. McCravy said while hes not sure whether the House will pass the bill, he does know a number of representatives including himself, are opposed to it. He also expects there to be a number of amendments filed if goes to the House. If this bill were talking about was simply allowing somebody thats dying of cancer to use marijuana or something like that, I dont think anybody would oppose that, McCravy said. But a lot of people like me see this bill as the first step towards recreational marijuana. And there are a lot of things in the bill that indicate that. Some of McCravys major concerns are the addition of 270 cannabis pharmacies, allowing marijuana doctors and the inability for businesses and other places to discriminate against those with a medical marijuana card. This bill is recreational marijuana part one, McCravy said. McCravy also opposes the fiscal impact. Low estimates range from $10 million up to as high as $100 million, he said since the bill leaves out a revenue component, taxpayers would fund the program Chinese cities adorned with lanterns to greet Spring Festival Xinhua) 09:26, February 09, 2024 People visit a lantern show to celebrate the coming Spring Festival in the city of Liaocheng, east China's Shandong Province, Feb. 7, 2024. Many Chinese cities are adorned with illuminated lanterns as Spring Festival is around the corner. (Photo by Zhang Zhenxiang/Xinhua) People visit a lantern show to celebrate the coming Spring Festival in the city of Taizhou, east China's Jiangsu Province, Feb. 7, 2024. Many Chinese cities are adorned with illuminated lanterns as Spring Festival is around the corner. (Photo by Tang Dehong/Xinhua) People visit a lantern show to celebrate the coming Spring Festival in the city of Taizhou, east China's Jiangsu Province, Feb. 7, 2024. Many Chinese cities are adorned with illuminated lanterns as Spring Festival is around the corner. (Photo by Tang Dehong/Xinhua) People visit a lantern show to celebrate the coming Spring Festival in Qinhuangdao, north China's Hebei Province, Feb. 7, 2024. Many Chinese cities are adorned with illuminated lanterns as Spring Festival is around the corner. (Xinhua/Yang Shiyao) An aerial drone photo taken on Feb. 7, 2024 shows people visiting a lantern show to celebrate the coming Spring Festival in the city of Tangshan, north China's Hebei Province. Many Chinese cities are adorned with illuminated lanterns as Spring Festival is around the corner. (Photo by Dong Jun/Xinhua) People take a selfie at a lantern show to celebrate the coming Spring Festival in Guiyang, southwest China's Guizhou Province, Feb. 7, 2024. Many Chinese cities are adorned with illuminated lanterns as Spring Festival is around the corner. (Photo by Yuan Fuhong/Xinhua) People visit a lantern show to celebrate the coming Spring Festival in Qinhuangdao, north China's Hebei Province, Feb. 7, 2024. Many Chinese cities are adorned with illuminated lanterns as Spring Festival is around the corner. (Xinhua/Yang Shiyao) People visit a lantern show to celebrate the coming Spring Festival in Qinhuangdao, north China's Hebei Province, Feb. 7, 2024. Many Chinese cities are adorned with illuminated lanterns as Spring Festival is around the corner. (Xinhua/Yang Shiyao) People visit a lantern show to celebrate the coming Spring Festival in Qinhuangdao, north China's Hebei Province, Feb. 7, 2024. Many Chinese cities are adorned with illuminated lanterns as Spring Festival is around the corner. (Xinhua/Yang Shiyao) People visit a lantern show to celebrate the coming Spring Festival in Tancheng County, east China's Shandong Province, Feb. 7, 2024. Many Chinese cities are adorned with illuminated lanterns as Spring Festival is around the corner. (Photo by Zhang Chunlei/Xinhua) A drone photo taken on Feb. 7, 2024 shows people visiting a lantern show to celebrate the coming Spring Festival in the city of Tangshan, north China's Hebei Province. Many Chinese cities are adorned with illuminated lanterns as Spring Festival is around the corner. (Photo by Dong Jun/Xinhua) People visit a lantern show to celebrate the coming Spring Festival in Qinhuangdao, north China's Hebei Province, Feb. 7, 2024. Many Chinese cities are adorned with illuminated lanterns as Spring Festival is around the corner. (Xinhua/Yang Shiyao) People visit a lantern show to celebrate the coming Spring Festival in Qinhuangdao, north China's Hebei Province, Feb. 7, 2024. Many Chinese cities are adorned with illuminated lanterns as Spring Festival is around the corner. (Xinhua/Yang Shiyao) People take a selfie at a lantern show to celebrate the coming Spring Festival in Deqing County, east China's Zhejiang Province, Feb. 7, 2024. Many Chinese cities are adorned with illuminated lanterns as Spring Festival is around the corner. (Photo by Xie Shangguo/Xinhua) (Web editor: Cai Hairuo, Zhong Wenxing) (Photo : TOFIK BABAYEV/AFP via Getty Images) Campaign posters of presidential candidates, including President Ilham Aliyev, are seen in Baku ahead of the upcoming snap presidential election on February 2, 2024. Azerbaijan will hold snap leadership polls on February 7, 2024. Azerbaijan's incumbent Ilham Aliyev has won another term as the president after winning the presidential election with a 92.12% vote tally, the Central Election Commission announced on Friday. However, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe has voiced concern about the vote. The election monitoring organization believes the election took place in a restrictive atmosphere with no real competition. What Do Election Moniters Say? Election monitors, however, have expressed concern about the vote. The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe said Thursday that the election took place in a restrictive environment with no real political competition. Aliyev called for an early election following a jump in popularity after recapturing land seized by ethnic Armenian separatists more than 20 years ago. He will sit as president for another seven years. Special coordinator for the OSCE Artur Gerasymov said his elections "took place in a restrictive environment and ... was marked with the stifling of critical voices." He further stated his belief that Aliyev was "not meaningfully challenged." due the hampering of independent media and the lack of other political parties. Pluralism was subdued as well as well as the "absence of analytical reporting" in the media. Thus clouding the voters' ability to make informed choices. The world's attention will return to Azerbaijan in November when it hosts a U.N. climate change conference. Oil & gas are the country's primary export. Ilham Aliyev succeeded his father in 2003, who was president of the country under Communism and remained in power for a decade after the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Aliyev and his family cast their ballots in Khankendi, a city that was once the home of the headquarters of the separatists government and named Stepanakert by the Armenians. Ethnic Armenians, back by Armenia, took over the territory after the end of a separatist war in 1994. As a trial date approaches for the former Memphis police officers accused of violating Tyre Nichols' civil rights when they pulled him over and beat him in January 2023, the defendants are asking the judge to dismiss the indictment against them. The motions to dismiss came just before Wednesday's deadline to file motions and were filed alongside motions requesting a venue change, limiting expert testimony and a request to push the trial date back multiple months. The five ex-officers Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Emmitt Martin, Desmond Mills and Justin Smith were federally indicted on four counts in mid-September last year. The four-count indictment charges the former officers with using excessive force, exercising deliberate indifference, witness tampering and conspiracy to witness tamper. The latest: Federal criminal trial in Tyre Nichols case pushed back. Here's why and when it will be Mills entered a plea agreement on Nov. 2. The trial had been set to start in May and has now been pushed back to the fall. Attorneys had questioned whether May would be a feasible deadline with over 800 gigabytes of discovery to mull over, and a judge agreed. There were 34 filings in the days leading up to the filing deadline. Here's a round-up of the most important motions that were filed ahead of it. U.S. Attorney General for the Western District of Tennessee Kevin Ritz answers questions from the press as Assistant U.S. Attorney General Kristen Clarke, head of the Department of Justices civil rights division, looks on during a press conference announcing that an indictment is pending in federal court for the five now-former Memphis police officers involved in the Tyre Nichols case in Memphis, Tenn., on Tuesday, September 12, 2023. U.S. Attorney's Office submits list of experts for testimony At the end of January, per a court order, the U.S. Attorney's Office filed two lists of experts it intends to call during the trial for testimony. Here's a list of who they plan to call, and what they might testify to: Dr. Marco Ross conducted Nichols' autopsy and will testify to the wounds he suffered, and the findings listed in the autopsy report. Dr. Rebecca Folkerth is a neuropathologist and the medical examiner for New York City. She was called in by Ross to confirm Nichols' cause of death, which has been listed as blunt force trauma to the head. Dr. Mohammad Assaf was Nichols' physician and neurologist while he was at St. Francis Hospital. He has been called to testify to the importance of urgency in treating patients like Nichols. Dr. Peter Law was the attending physician for Nichols at St. Francis Hospital. Daniel Anderson is a toxicologist with NMS Labs and conducted Nichols' toxicology screen. He analyzed blood, urine and tissue samples and was called to speak on his findings. Juan Gonzalez is an officer with the Memphis Police Department and academy trainer who taught Haley and Martin, two of the charged former officers. He is expected to testify that the traffic stop and use of force were inconsistent with the training he provided. Larnce Wright is an MPD officer and academy trainer. He is expected to testify about the use of force continuum. Kevin Barrett is a lieutenant with MPD and part of the training academy. Prosecutors expect him to testify that the traffic stop was not conducted the way it was taught at the academy. Zayid Saleem is a former senior attorney for the City of Memphis and MPD instructor. He retired in 2022 and is expected to testify about the training he provided when he worked, with a focus on officers' duty to intervene. Tracey Branch is a former FBI agent who provided MPD recruits with a training course on federal civil rights and police corruption. Demetrius Haley, one of the five former Memphis Police Department officers charged with the beating of Tyre Nichols, walks out of the Odell Horton Federal Building after making an appearance in court in Downtown Memphis, on Tuesday, November 14, 2023. Multiple motions to dismiss were filed Bean filed a motion to dismiss on Jan. 24, and his attorney argued that counts two, three and four of his indictment should be dismissed citing no specific factual assertions in the indictment as to those charges. To prevent a miscarriage of justice, the prosecution should not have indicted and charged defendant Bean with counts that are not provable using the facts and discovery presented, the motion read. Under the plain language of the indictment, Bean cannot be made aware of how the allegation can be either proved or defended at trial. The motion also alleged that prosecutors did not give Bean fair notice of the charges. Martin also moved for dismissal of the indictment for vagueness and insufficiency. More: Tyre Nichols footage: 6 quotes that expand what we know about his beating, death Two separate motions one for the first two counts and another for the third and fourth counts were filed citing the same reasons as Bean in his motion to dismiss. Counts 1 and 2 should be dismissed because they violate Mr. Martins right to due process of law because they fail to allege the facts constituting the charged offenses and otherwise fail to put him on notice of the charged offenses, Martins motion read. A second motion for the third and fourth counts cites similarly vague language as a reason for dismissal. Both counts 3 and 4 are unconstitutionally and statutorily insufficient because they allege that the defendants corruptly persuaded, and attempted to corruptly persuade, MPD supervisor 1 and MPD detective 1 but do not define corruption, much less corrupt persuasion, and make no allegation that Mr. Martin, or his codefendants, engaged in any actual persuasion, the second motion read. Bean and Smith both signed on to this motion to dismiss. In addition to Martin's motion to dismiss along the same lines at Bean's, Martin filed two separate motions to dismiss that argued duplicity. Emmitt Martin III, one of the five former Memphis Police Department officers charged with the beating of Tyre Nichols, looks on outside of the Odell Horton Federal Building as his attorneys William Massey, Catalina Goodwin and Stephen Ross Johnson speak to the media after Martin made an appearance in court in Downtown Memphis, on Tuesday, November 14, 2023. Martin on Tuesday filed a motion to have the indictment against him dismissed outright, with his attorneys arguing that each count included multiple charges, hence violating Martins due process protections and protection from double jeopardy under the Sixth Amendment. The motion requests that the indictment be dismissed and a constitutionally valid indictment be brought for the case to move forward. Attorneys for Martin argue that the indictment is duplicitous because a jury could not return a unanimous verdict due to multiple crimes being alleged in each count. Should the court determine that the indictments duplicity does not warrant dismissal, the court should force the government to make a pretrial election of the charge within each count that it intends to rely, the motion read. While pretrial election will not cure the constitutional deficiencies with the duplicitous indictment, and the appropriate remedy here is dismissal, pretrial election at minimum assists in protecting Mr. Martins Fifth Amendment protection from double jeopardy, his Sixth Amendment right to a unanimous jury verdict and his Sixth Amendment right to present a defense. Martin's attorneys file to change venue, survey claims biases among potential jurors Martins attorneys also filed a motion Tuesday to have the case heard in the Eastern Division of Tennessees Western District Court. That division is located in Jackson. Similar to prior motions for a venue change, Martin's motion points to extensive media coverage. Martins attorneys argue that the coverage has tainted the jury pool and prejudiced the majority of potential jurors against the defendants, making it impossible for them to receive a fair trial. Separately from other motions, Martins contains a report from a researcher that polled 229 potential Western Division jurors and 125 from the Eastern Division. The report found that about 93% of Western Division respondents who were familiar with the case believed the former officers are guilty of using excessive force, with 88% responding that they believed they are guilty of murder. The report also found that 82% of respondents said they would have a difficult time being convinced that the defendants were not guilty of using excessive force and 78% replied that they felt the same way about the murder charges. About 90% of the respondents said they recognized the case in the Western Division and 70% said they did in the Eastern Division. However, for those who said they recognized the case in the Eastern Division, the report found that about 90% of respondents believed the defendants were guilty of using excessive force and 79% said they believed they were guilty of murder. About 78% of the Eastern Division respondents said they would have a difficult time being convinced the defendants were not guilty of excessive force and 78% said the same for murder. A photo of Tyre Nichols can be seen as Rodney and RowVaughn Wells, the parents of Nichols, hold a candle and bow their heads in prayer during a candlelight vigil for Nichols held at the site where he was beaten to death by Memphis Police Department officers on the one year anniversary of his death in Memphis, Tenn., on Sunday, January 7, 2024. Those surveyed in the Eastern and Western Divisions had similar breakdowns in terms of gender and age, with the Western Division skewing slightly younger. However, the respondents from the Western Division were 48% white, 46% Black and the remaining 6% were persons of color. The Eastern Division respondents were 83% white, 13% Black and 4% were other persons of color. Smith, another former officer, on Wednesday filed a notice of joinder to Martins motion for a change in venue. Haley, who had previously filed for a venue change which the U.S. Attorneys Office objected to due to prejudice being speculative, pointed to the survey conducted in Martins motion as evidence. In court Thursday, Federal Judge Mark S. Norris requested another survey be done over the phone to create a more randomized sample group. This survey, according to one of Martin's attorneys, was conducted via the internet due to time constraints. Defense requests trial be pushed back months Martins attorneys requested the trial date, along with all other deadlines, be pushed back four months. According to the filing, prosecutors had not objected to the request as of Wednesday night. The new trial date would be set for after Aug. 26. Absent this requested continuance, Mr. Martin will be deprived of the effective assistance of counsel, the representation by counsel of choice, the ability to make and present a defense, confrontation, due process and a fair jury trial, the motion read. William Massey, Catalina Goodwin and Stephen Ross Johnson the attorneys for Emmitt Martin III, one of the five former Memphis Police Department officers charged with the beating of Tyre Nichols, speak to the media after Martin made an appearance in court in Downtown Memphis, on Tuesday, November 14, 2023. His attorneys argue in the motion that because of the cases complexity, it is nearly impossible for attorneys to be prepared for trial in accordance with the 60-day time limits laid out in the Speedy Trial Act. This motion is not made for the purpose of procrastination or unreasonable delay in this matter or some other improper purpose, but rather so that counsel may provide the defendant with the effective assistance of counsel to which he is entitled, that the defendant receive zealous representation and that the defendant, through counsel, be able to adequately review discovery, research potential issues to be raised via motion, investigate and develop evidence necessary to present a defense to the charged offenses and engage in preparation for trial, the motion read. This motion was granted at a report date Thursday, and the trial is now set to begin Sept. 9. Defense requests hearing on what evidence will be admissible Martins attorneys Wednesday filed a motion requesting a hearing about the admissibility of statements that the government plans to use to indicate there was a conspiracy to cover up the beating. A hearing to determine the admissibility of any statements is constitutionally necessary here because, given the allegations in the indictment, volume of discovery, multiple defendants and lack of specificity provided by the government to date over what items provided in discovery the government intends to introduce in trial, a pretrial determination of the admissibility of what hearsay the government intends to introduce will avoid confrontation, severance and fair trial issues manifesting themselves mid-trial, warranting a mistrial, the motion read. Martins attorneys said without a hearing to determine what can and cannot be admitted as evidence, the trial risks being injected with inadmissible hearsay. This combo of booking images provided by the Shelby County Sheriff's Office shows, from left, Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Emmitt Martin III, Desmond Mills, Jr. and Justin Smith. The five former Memphis police officers have been charged with second-degree murder and other crimes in the arrest and death of Tyre Nichols, a Black motorist who died three days after a confrontation with the officers during a traffic stop, records showed Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023. Questions over allowing expert opinions on use of force remain Haleys attorney also filed a motion Wednesday that would limit who could testify to the use of force used against Nichols. The motion was filed in response to the prosecutions witness list, where multiple law enforcement individuals were included, identified as hybrid or expert testimony people. According to Haleys attorney, the law enforcement witnesses should not be allowed to offer expert testimony about use of force if they will be determined as laymen and not experts. Haleys attorney also objected to assigning the law enforcement witnesses the expert designation in a separate filing. According to the attorney, the U.S. Attorneys Office should be prevented from entering them as experts because the office did not make the disclosure before the deadline and that the notice provided was not detailed enough. More: As some Memphis officers joked about Tyre Nichols beating, others criticized special unit The notice makes clear that the government knew as early as April and May 2023 it intended to introduce expert testimony on what it describes as use of force issues, the motion reads. This fact, combined with the insufficient notice filed demonstrates that the delay is inexcusable and outright exclusion of any expert testimony on use of force issues [is] the least severe sanction necessary. The objections from Haleys attorney do not include these people testifying to what they each did or taught in connection with MPD, and are only objections to opinions being admitted. The two motions were joined by Smith, Martin and Bean Wednesday. Defense says it is still missing aspects of discovery Haleys attorney filed Wednesday a motion to compel the material underlying the official forensic biology report that was turned over during discovery. That report, the motion read, contains results from DNA testing done on clothes and footwear worn by each of the former officers charged in the case. Rodney and RowVaughn Wells, the parents of Tyre Nichols, look down at a painting of their son as they pose for a portrait in Memphis, Tenn., on Thursday, January 11, 2024. Haleys attorney wants the material relating to the report since he has contracted a consultant to explain the results. Some of that material was turned over by the U.S. Attorneys Office, according to the motion, and the prosecutor said he would check with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation for the remainder. The motion, according to Haleys attorney, was filed in anticipation of it being needed should the material not be turned over after the motion deadline passed Wednesday. Martin joined Haley in this motion. Defense doubles down on vagueness of indictment Multiple motions from defendants have requested the U.S. Attorneys Office file a bill of particulars, a filing that details the charges against the former officers. Those requests come in conjunction with motions to dismiss the indictment, each citing that the indictment is too vague for an adequate defense to be made. Some motions have been sealed, possibly relate to character evidence Multiple sealed motions and documents have been filed, with the only descriptor of the motions being use of improper character evidence. In early October, defense attorneys alleged that Nichols had a hallucinogenic substance along with stolen debit and credit cards in his car the night he was pulled over. Those filings said that the possession of those items were not known to defense attorneys and the officers until later, when findings from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigations catalogue of Nichols car were obtained in discovery. Candles spelling out Tyre can be seen during a candlelight vigil for Nichols held at the site where he was beaten to death by Memphis Police Department officers on the one year anniversary of his death in Memphis, Tenn., on Sunday, January 7, 2024. Hallucinogens being found in the car have not mentioned by any party in open court or other filings, but defense attorneys alluded to and outright alleged Nichols was high. The most recent release of additional footage from the night Nichols was pulled over and beaten included a clip of former Officer Preston Hemphill, a member of the SCORPION Unit who was fired but never criminally charged with Nichols death. That clip showed Hemphill, walking around what appeared to be Nichols car, and telling another officer that there was nothing illegal in the car. Aint nothing in that car, so I dont know what he was trying to hide, Hemphill could be heard saying. Or he was just on something. Hemphills comment seemed to imply he had already searched the car and found nothing illegal. Lucas Finton is a criminal justice reporter with The Commercial Appeal. He can be reached at Lucas.Finton@commercialappeal.com, or (901)208-3922, and followed on X, formerly known as Twitter, @LucasFinton. This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: See the last-minute filings in Tyre Nichols federal criminal case From the Boiling Frogs on The Dispatch The fecklessness and civic corruption of congressional Republicans is an almost inexhaustible topic. But after writing about it for three straight days, I confess to a degree of exhaustion. So lets keep it light and breezy today by imagining that the Supreme Court disqualifies Donald Trump from being president again. Earlier today, the court heard arguments on whether Section 3 of the 14th Amendment bars Trump from office due to his insurrectionary behavior on January 6. Many brilliant and learned legal minds, including our own Sarah Isgur, have weighed the constitutional merits of the case and ended up on opposite sides. Court challenges to Trumps eligibility have succeeded in two states and been dismissed in several others. Its a matter of fascinating academic debate. And its all noise. Trump will not be disqualified. What I wrote in December is truer today following his victories in Iowa and New Hampshire: The Supreme Court wont trigger the gravest crisis of government legitimacy since the Civil War by kicking the presumptive Republican nominee off the ballot nine months before Election Day. Whether it should makes for a fine watercooler conversation in the local law school faculty lounge. Whether its ever proper for a court to let political considerations influence its jurisprudence is heady stuff for a colloquy among legal theorists. But the result of the case is not in doubt. Trump will win, probably with at least one vote in his favor from the liberal justices. Any suspense about the outcome has to do with how close to a 9-0 ruling John Roberts can get. Which is a bummer, and for more than one reason. Theres no news development less inspiring for a pundit to write about than Status quo prevails. Lets pretend, then. Lets imagine that, against all odds, five votes materialize on the court for disqualifying Trump. The three liberals somehow persuade Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett to pull the plug on the man who appointed them. (Normally Roberts would be the first target for a crossover vote, but the chief is famously an institutionalist. He wont compromise public respect for his court by moving to oust Trump.) Americans wake up one day this spring to find that the odds-on favorite to become the next president has been excommunicated from politics. What happens then? A lot of stuff happens then, and none of it is good. Today wont be so light and breezy after all. There are many moving parts in the disqualification scenario. Lets tick through them one by one. I. Trump. No one is more dangerous than a sociopath with nothing to lose. And if SCOTUS disqualifies him, Trump would lose more than just his career. Part of the reason hes running for president again is to grant himself a get out of jail free card. If he wins reelection, hell have the federal criminal cases against him dismissed and will move to have the criminal cases against him in New York and Georgia suspended, alleging that to proceed would make it impossible for him to carry out his duties as president. Hell win that argument. If hes disqualified from office, all of that goes up in smoke. The power to spare himself from prison would be yanked from his grasp. He wont react well. Trump is a manchild so obsessively vindictive that the actual theme of his presidential campaign is retribution. If hes kicked off the ballot, retribution will consume whatevers left of his rational mind. Hell want to see the country burn for having thwarted him, just as he wanted to see his vice president hanged on January 6 for doing so. And therell be nothing to restrain his most destructive impulses this timeno prospect of holding future office that might encourage him to play nice and certainly no altruistic concern about sparing America from civil unrest. Any fear of being prosecuted for incitement to violence might also evaporate as it dawns on him that hes likely to face prison anyway from one of the other pending prosecutions. Even if he doesnt explicitly ask his diehards to riot, some will oblige him. Theres no harsher indictment of the state of the right than the fact that its all but universally assumed that grassroots Republicans will begin breaking things if their hero is held legally accountable for the coup he tried to stage. Violence will be one part of Trumps response, but there are others. His political goal, short of maximizing the chaos inflicted on a constitutional order that defied him, will be to delegitimize the coming election. Naturally, hell ask his fans not to vote in November; the whole point of the Republican hostage crisis since 2016 is to teach conservatives that they cant and wont win elections unless hes in charge. Being thrown off the ballot by SCOTUS will require Trump and his supporters to prove theyre willing to finally shoot the hostage. In fact, Id expect him to demand that the Republican Party protest the courts ruling by refusing to choose a replacement nominee. The last thing he would want to come from all this is his substitute on the ballot defeating Biden and becoming the new locus of power in the GOP. Yes, granted, Republican victory in November would guarantee Trump a criminal pardon, but at what price? Hed have lost his crown. For a narcissist, thats a fate worse than death. His movement is a cult, and you know how cults tend to end. The Jim Jones of the GOP would doubtless prefer to see Joe Biden win handily in an election that will forever carry an asterisk due to a widespread boycott by Republican voters than to see Ron DeSantis usurp him. Trump has spent four years claiming that the president didnt win his first term fair and square; hell be quite comfortable spending the next four the same way. II. Legislatures. Its almost too obvious to mention, but here it is: Trump being disqualified from the ballot on insurrection grounds would instantly trigger an effort in red states to disqualify Joe Biden for the same reason. Forever desperate to ingratiate himself to populists, the always thirsty DeSantis has already floated the possibility. Could we just say Biden cant be on the ballot because he let in eight million illegals into the country and violated the Constitution, which he has? the governor wondered in December. Retribution and delegitimizationthat would be the essence of Trumps response to being struck from the ballot and so it would also be the essence of the response among state-level GOP apparatchiks. We might even hear semi-serious chatter in red-state legislatures about seceding, reasoning that a country that would bar its people from electing a candidate whom a near-majority supports is no longer meaningfully a democracy. Opportunistic Republican officials would flog it ceaselessly, angling to one-up each other in the endless game of whos most theatrically outraged at the libs? that ambitious right-wing politicians play to build a national profile. Propelled by that dynamic, and egged on by Trump, theres no telling how much steam the secession push might build. Meanwhile, Republicans in Congress would be looking to leverage the text of the 14th Amendment. Section 3 provides that a candidate for office whos disqualified due to insurrection can be reinstated if two-thirds of the House and the Senate agree. For the sake of civic harmony and public faith in our democracy, we must reinstate Trump, congressional Republicans would say, setting up a win/win for them. Either Democrats will agree and join the GOP in restoring Trump to the ballot or theyll refuse, shifting the focus of right-wing anger over Trumps disqualification from a relatively sterile political target like the Supreme Court to a much juicier one, the Democratic Party. What would congressional Democrats do? A few would say youre right and reluctantly support the Republican effort for the good of the country, I suspect. But most would decline. They wont want to absolve a repulsive demagogue from the legal consequences of his coup attempt, and they surely wont want to face the wrath of Trump-hating Democratic voters demanding that they not rescue an authoritarian at the very moment the country finally seems to be rid of him. Even the cynical argument that Democrats should want to face Trump in the general election because hes the weakest potential nominee wouldnt move them. For one thing, the likelihood of multiple constitutional crises in his second term has hopefully scared liberals straight about wishing to see him back on the ballot. For another, to the extent Trump was ever a pushover in November, he no longer is. If anything, the prospect of a MAGA boycott of a Trump-less election would arguably ensure a Democratic win. Hes the weakest potential Republican nominee if and only if GOP voters turn out at the same rate for all potential Republican nominees. But they assuredly will not. So congressional Democrats would block the Republican effort to reinstate Trump. And the American right, which already perceives his legal ordeal as little more than a left-wing ploy to rig democracy in their favor, will feel confirmed in its suspicions. III. The Republican Party. The leadership of the GOP will face two impossible choices after Trump is disqualified. Do they dare nominate a replacement? If so, who? It seems preposterous that one of Americas major parties might choose not to offer a candidate for president, but the reality of the partys long-running hostage crisis argues in favor of it. The calculus for the Republican National Committee and other leaders would be this: If it defies Trumps wishes (unlikely!) by nominating Nikki Haley or Ron DeSantis instead, will it alienate his populist base so enduringly that it ends up losing multiple elections because of it? Forfeiting 2024 is crazy unless refusing to forfeit leads to losing in 2024 and 2028 and 2032 and so on. Besides, leaving Trump on the ballot even though hes ineligible to serve could work out for them. He might get more electoral votes than Biden anyway, which would mean either Trumps Republican vice president takes power next year or Joe Biden suffers the ultimate crisis of legitimacy by serving a second term despite having lost the election. I say either because no one knows how the law would work in this circumstance. Such absurd questions are yet another perverse civic bequest of the Republican electorates absurd fascination with an absurd person. Lets say the RNC decides that the party must have an option on the ballot, though. America cant survive another term of Joe Biden, we need to win the White House to exact revenge on the courts and on Democrats for cruelly striking Trump from the ballot, yadda yadda. Who should be the nominee? Nikki Haley? Shes guaranteed to finish with the second-most delegates of any primary candidate, but a refugee from the pre-Trump GOP establishment seems singularly ill-suited to unite a party furious at Trumps disqualification from the ballot. Shes the candidate of college graduates in a movement dominated by working-class populists. Her popularity has slipped since becoming Trumps last obstacle to the nomination too, enough so that she got crushed a few days ago in Nevadas primary by none of the above. Replacing Trump with Haley would lead the Steve Bannons of the world to howl that the substitution amounts to nothing less than a uniparty coup. Ron DeSantis, then? The governor of Florida may be the Republican best positioned on paper to unite a fracturing coalition of populists and conservatives. But he ran a terrible campaign distinguished by infighting and wasteful spending and arguably underperformed expectations more pitifully than any candidate in modern political history. Despite claiming to have been more electable than Trump, by the end of his run he performed worse against Biden head-to-head than Trump does and considerably worse than Haley does. Its not clear to me that hed even accept the GOP nomination if a disqualified Trump insisted that the party not replace him on the ballot. DeSantis is a young man whose future has already been damaged by challenging Trump this cycle. Why would he damage that future further by agreeing to fill in as nominee, only to lose the general election badly anyway when you-know-who demands that his supporters not turn out to support a traitor? It may be that GOP chieftains would conclude that their one plausible option to replace Trump is Donald Trump Jr. (They wouldnt even need to change the name on the ballot!) Only someone from within the family, of the royal bloodline, might prove acceptable enough to the king to dissuade him from commanding his populist troops to shoot the Republican hostage in November. IV. Joe Biden and the Democratic Party. The president would face an immediate conundrum after Trumps abrupt court-ordered exit from the race. Is there anything he could do to try to calm the country, especially the American right? He could pardon Trump as a gesture of goodwill. But if he does that, suspicions that the federal cases against him were mere political ploys would deepen. Why was a pardon warranted the moment Trump was no longer a candidate for office and not before? Democrats would face their own crisis following Trumps disqualification. Namely, do they want to stick with a nominee who cant remember when his son passed away and keeps recounting recent conversations hes had with foreign leaders who died years ago? The argument for renominating Joe Biden in 2024 has always been shaky, but theres logic to it. He defeated Trump once before, after all. And the advantage of incumbency is no small thing to concede when the other guy on the ballot is an authoritarian scheming for ways to consolidate power once hes elected. The risk of a second Trump term is already unacceptably high; ushering a sitting president toward the exit in the idle hope that Kamala Harris or Gavin Newsom would do better in November makes it that much higher. But if the Supreme Court were to suddenly eliminate that risk, the calculus would change. Running Gavin Newsom is less existentially risky when the alternative is President Nikki Haley, not President Donald Trump. The question is what Bidens polling might look like after Trumps disqualification. Its such a black box that I think one can plausibly argue that his chances at reelection would soaror crumble. The soar scenario is straightforward. After Trump orders his supporters to boycott the election in protest, support for the Republican Partys new nominee (assuming there is one) collapses. Millions of right-wing populists resolve to either stay home or to divert their votes toward writing in Trump; meanwhile, violence committed by rogue Trump supporters drives a backlash toward the president among frightened undecideds. Biden quickly opens a double-digit lead over his new GOP opponent and never looks back. But the crumble scenario is also easy to imagine. First, swing voters angry at seeing a major candidate lawfare-d off the ballot in the thick of a campaign shift to the GOP. So do the so-called double haters who dislike both Biden and Trump; with the latter no longer a candidate, they start to view the election as a pure referendum on the president and swing toward the right decisively. Then populist Republicans who were swayed initially by Trumps pleas to boycott the race begin to have misgivings, irritated by the thought of handing Biden a second term on a silver platter simply to spite the Supreme Court. Grudgingly, they too begin to back the new GOP nominee. The coup de grace comes when progressives disgusted with Biden over the war in Gaza and numerous other minor ideological betrayals desert him en masse, no longer driven by the specter of Trump on the ballot to hold their noses and vote for their partys nominee. As Bidens polling tanks, anxious Democratic leaders are left wondering whether an eleventh-hour replacement as nominee wouldnt be the most judicious move. A pressure campaign at the top quietly begins to convince him to step aside, driven by the reassurance that Trump wont be president again if he does. Before you know it, a campaign between two men whom most of the country dislikes will have transformed into a campaign between Kamala Harris and Nikki Haley. Two women whom, er, most of the country dislikes. The bottom line on Trump being disqualified is that it would instantly become impossible for the outcome of the election to be seen as legitimate, regardless of who won. If Democrats defeated a Trump-less GOP, Republicans would insist that their chosen nominee would have prevailed. If a Trump-less GOP defeated the Democrats, liberals would insist that they would have prevailed over a weakened, legally compromised Trump. Of course, the outcome of the election wont be seen as legitimate if Trump isnt disqualified either. If he runs and loses, Republicans will claim that years of lawfare unfairly undermined his campaign. If he runs and wins, Democrats will claim that he should have been deemed ineligible under the 14th Amendment to begin with. Theres no truly good scenario, but there never is anymore. A politics deformed by corruption and authoritarianism, and then by hamfisted institutional attempts to restrain it, is a politics where all possible outcomes are merely different shades of bad. Its very third-world. But its also academic. As I say, the Supreme Court wont disqualify Trump. The particular form of illegitimacy produced by the election will be one in which he remains a participant. Lucky us. Read more at The Dispatch The Dispatch is a new digital media company providing engaged citizens with fact-based reporting and commentary, informed by conservative principles. Sign up for free. The 477 acres near Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge Bahia Grande Unit, shown in purple, could be given to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. In return, TPWD would give 43 acres in Boca Chica, shown in red, to SpaceX so it could expand its footprint. Ken Ellis/Staff A large sheet of metal is pictured in a mudflat nearly three-quarters of a mile northwest of the SpaceX launch pad in Boca Chica on April 22, 2023. Coastal Bend Bays & Estuaries Program A person looks at a SpaceX launch facility two days after the inaugural flight test of the combined Super Heavy rocket and Starship spacecraft on April 22, 2023, in Boca Chica. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket lifts off from Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39-A on Jan. 18 in Cape Canaveral, Fla. John Raoux/Associated Press Elon Musk and the SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Fla., in 2018. TODD ANDERSON, STR / NYT A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket with the Crew Dragon spacecraft with astronauts on a mission to the International Space Station lifts off from pad 39A at Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Fla., on Aug. 26, 2023. Malcolm Denemark/Associated Press Billionaires tend to look out for one another, so its no surprise Houstons richest man is helping Elon Musk, the worlds wealthiest Texan, acquire sensitive state parkland to expand SpaceX. Oil and gas billionaire Jeffery Hildebrand wants to trade 43 acres of Boca Chica State Park to Musks SpaceX in return for 477 acres of privately owned land connected to the nearby Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge. Sounds like a good deal, right? No, because the 477 acres of land were already slated for conservation, my colleague Andrea Leinfelder uncovered. If Hildebrand pushes through the deal, as hes pledged, Texans will see no net gain of conserved acres. Advertisement Article continues below this ad How did an oil billionaire obtain the authority to make a sweetheart deal with a tech billionaire to decimate a state park? Campaign donations to Gov. Greg Abbott, of course. Hildebrand is the co-founder of Hilcorp Energy Co. and the 51st richest person in the United States with $13.7 billion, according to Forbes. Hilcorp is one of the nations largest privately owned oil and gas companies. For more than 20 years, Republican politicians have relied on Hildebrand for hundreds of thousands of dollars in donations. Governors have rewarded him with official appointments. After giving to Rick Perrys gubernatorial campaign, the governor appointed him to the University of Texas Board of Regents in 2013. In 2022, Hildebrand was the seventh-largest political donor in Texas, giving $1.97 million almost entirely to Republican candidates and committees, the Austin American-Statesman reported. He and his wife Mindy gave Gov. Greg Abbott $750,000 for his 2022 re-election campaign. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Abbott appointed Hildebrand to chair the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission in August 2023, presumably because fossil fuel executives have such a great environmental track record. Musk chose the hamlet of Boca Chica, at the tip of Texas, to become his Starbase in 2014. SpaceX built a launch pad near the beach where Texas Parks and Wildlife opened a park in 1994. The state park land is part of the federally-managed Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge. Now that SpaceX is expanding Starbase to launch the worlds most powerful rocket, Musk wants to acquire 43 acres of parkland from the state. But with local opposition to Starbase growing, the company needed to make a sweet offer. SpaceX identified 477 acres northwest of the launchpad sandwiched between the villages of Laguna Heights and Laguna Vista along East Ocean Boulevard The land extends south to the shore of Laguna Larga. (A confusing cluster of lagunas down there.) Texas Parks and Wildlife staff recommended the trade, saying: This acquisition will provide increased public recreational opportunities including hiking, camping, water recreation and wildlife viewing, and allow for greater conservation of sensitive habitats for wintering and migratory birds. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Not so fast, said Cameron County officials and the Sierra Club. Landowner Conservation Equity Management was already preserving the land to sell environmental credits to companies needing to offset their destruction of wetlands, streams or endangered species habitats elsewhere. County officials and the Conservation Funds Texas office were in advanced talks with CEM to buy the parcel when SpaceX apparently swept in, Commissioner David Garza told Leinfelder. They didnt have the courtesy to let us know what they were trying to do, he said. Neither SpaceX, who is our corporate responsible partner in Cameron County, nor Texas Parks and Wildlife. Musks companies do not respond to requests for comment. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission, which Hildebrand chairs, was supposed to vote on Jan. 25. But after 1,039 people posted comments opposing the swap, with only 263 in support, the commission took the item off the meeting agenda. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Hildebrand said he expects the commission to approve the deal ultimately. The next meeting is March 27. The land exchange is an extremely valuable opportunity to the department and the state of Texas to provide more recreational opportunities to the public, he said. I am committed to moving this process forward and completing the transaction. Hildebrand claims the deal is a gain for Texas conservation, though simple math suggests otherwise. The states higher priority appears to be moving out of Musks way. Abbott once bragged about talking to Musk once a week. The tech billionaire moved Teslas headquarters to Austin, and the governor hopes hell move SpaceX and Twitter, now called X, too. After a Delaware judge threw out his $55 billion pay package, Musk hinted he would reincorporate Tesla in Texas. Because with friends like Abbott and Hildebrand, who needs to worry about the public interest or the rule of law? SUFFOLK, Va. (WAVY) February is American Heart Month, and a woman from Suffolk wants to share her story about a rare heart condition doctors diagnosed her with less than a year ago. In 2023, Kim Atkins went from being a woman on the go to a woman in the hospital bed. Atkins said she had terrible indigestion one day in May. After the second day of continued discomfort, she called her friend, whos a nurse, and was encouraged to go to the hospital. Atkins said the pain started to move into her jaw, and doctors ran several tests on her. Atkins thought her condition would be minor. Instead, a heart attack was confirmed. When I went in, I was barking about the fact that I was going to be going to Disney World in five days, so I didnt have time for this, Atkins said, while laughing. Meanwhile, while Atkins was hospitalized, she suffered a second heart attack. Doctors began to run more tests on her to figure out what was happening. I remember when I was in my angiogram, I was loopy, but at the last minute I told the doctor I have fibromuscular dysplasia, Atkins said. Fibromuscular dysplasia is a rare blood vessel disorder where strong cells are replaced with weaker fibrous cells, according to John Hopkins Medicine. The doctor was able to realize it could be Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection, or SCAD, which is a serious condition that causes tears in the walls of heart arteries, according to Mayo Clinic. After multiple tests, doctors confirmed the SCAD diagnosis. The tear in the lining of the arteries in Atkins heart makes it difficult for blood to get to its destination. There are multiple factors that could contribute to the cause of SCAD, but recent studies showed that many SCAD patients also have fibromuscular dysplasia, according to the American Heart Association. Doctors said SCAD is responsible for a small percentage of heart attacks, about 1-4%. The goal of doctors, when treating patients with SCAD, is to reestablish blood flow. Dr. Stephen Noble, a cardiothoracic surgeon with Chesapeake Regional Healthcare, shares how doctors can make that happen. Some medicines can help control risk, and help with the pain, Noble said. Sometimes patients can be on what are called beta blockers where you decrease some of the demand, or how hard the heart beats, Noble said. Then, sometimes the patients may have chest pain that, because of the lack of blood flow to the heart, they experience some pain and discomfort. So, sometimes patients need to be put on medicine to alleviate some of that pain. Other treatments such as stents or bypass surgery can also help blood flow. Thats pretty extreme to have open heart surgery for something like this, and for that reason, really seeing a specialist, those centers that really specialize in this is key, Noble said. Atkins hoped to be able to get treatment for SCAD in Hampton Roads, but she said the only SCAD specialist she could find is in Newport News. She said she couldnt get in to see that doctor for a year. So, she was sent to a specialist at the Mayo Clinic. There is a doctor there that is world renowned on SCAD, Atkins said. Thats all she does is do research on SCAD. Atkins said the Mayo Clinic took her right away. She said it was very costly, so her family and friends worked together to help raise money for her treatment. Atkins doctor put her on beta blockers to slow her heart rate. She said this has all caused big changes in her life, especially when it comes to her career as a physical therapist. The unfortunate thing is Im on a permanent lifting restriction for the rest of my life, Atkins said. No straining. No heavy weightlifting. No any of that, so thats the big issue being a physical therapist. I can still work. I just cant really see patients that are maximal assistance. I do have a job now. My initial job let me go. Atkins said all of this has taught her to slow down, and appreciate the little things. I learned to smell the flowers, Atkins said. Im learning to spend time with my family and friends. Im not sweating the little stuff at all anymore. She picked up new hobbies like crocheting and reading more. She is also in a SCAD support group that meets online. While there, she can listen to people from around the world talk about their lives with SCAD. Atkins said her goal is to get more local doctors to specialize in SCAD, so local patients dont have to travel so far for treatment. Noble said he understands why Atkins wants that to happen, but he explained the thought process for doctors when it comes to rare conditions. Noble said that these kinds of conditions have always been around, and with more awareness, more doctors can recognize it. But as far as individuals probably specializing in it, I think it may just be relegated to a few select centers within the United States, and in the world, that have this great experience of really trying to manage it, Noble said. No matter what happens, Atkins has a message for all women. Heartburn, stomach pain, mid back pain, dont ignore that, Atkins said. It could be something more serious. Im glad that I actually went to the ER. It could have been very different. Check with WAVY.com for updates. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com. Former President Donald Trump will be holding a rally in South Carolina on Saturday. The Get Out The Vote event is happening at Coastal Carolina University in Conway. Doors will open at 11 a.m. and the event will start at 2 p.m. ALSO READ: Another lawsuit challenging states election maps filed Tickets are available online. (WATCH BELOW: First Lady Jill Biden to stop in Charlotte to advocate for cancer patients) Trump speaks at a caucus night rally in Las Vegas before strolling to victory - AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill Donald Trump strolled to victory in the Nevada caucus on Thursday, adding more delegates in his seemingly unstoppable march to the Republican Partys presidential nomination. Mr Trump was the only major candidate on the ballot when party members gathered in public buildings across the southwestern US state to cast their in-person votes. Early results showed the former president had massively out-polled his long-shot challenger, a businessman from Texas, and major US networks said Mr Trump would scoop the states 26 delegates. Despite badly trailing Trump in the overall race, Nikki Hayley has insisted she is not dropping out - ALLISON DINNER/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock It was the second go around in presidential preference voting for Nevada this week. State-organised primary polls were held on Tuesday in which Nikki Haley was beaten into second place on the Republican ballot by none of these candidates - widely seen as a proxy vote for Trump. That result, however, was meaningless, with Nevadas GOP declaring months ago it would award its delegates from Thursdays rival caucus, a format that strongly favours Mr Trump. Ms Haley badly trails Mr Trump in the overall race for the nomination and is on course for another drubbing in her home state of South Carolina later this month. On Wednesday, the former UN ambassador insisted she was not dropping out. Im in this for the long haul, she told supporters at a campaign event in California, according to The New York Times. This is going to be messy, and this going to hurt, and its going to leave some bruises, but at the end of the day, I dont mind taking them, if you will go right along with me. Mr Trump on Thursday said he thought her continued candidacy was not a good idea, but it didnt bother him. I dont know why she continues but let her continue, he said. I dont really care. I think its bad for the party. I think its actually bad for her. Republicans in the US Virgin Islands were also caucusing on Thursday. Although it is not a state and will not get a say in Novembers presidential election, the territory does play a part in deciding presidential nominees. Mr Trump won the party vote by a margin of three-to-one over Ms Haley, giving him all available delegates for the July 15-18 Republican National Convention in Wisconsin which will decide the nominee. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Donald Trump won the Nevada caucuses Thursday, as expected, while his fellow Republican Nikki Haley was not on the ballot. The Nevada election has been marred by the confusing way in which it has played out, splitting votes between two contests on two different days. Nonetheless, Nevada Republicans made clear that they want Trump to be their nominee against President Biden in Novembers general election, which is open to all voters. This embedded content is not available in your region. Trump not only won the caucuses, but his supporters also registered a resounding protest vote against Haley in the primary two days earlier. In the primary which did not have Trump on the ballot Haley received around 23,000 votes, while the option for none of these candidates received more than 47,000 votes. Nevada Republicans were able to participate in both the primary and the caucuses. One prominent Trump supporter, Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo, said he planned to vote against Haley in the primary and to caucus for Trump. Clearly, many other Trump supporters did the same. This embedded content is not available in your region. Why did Nevada do it this way? The confusing situation in Nevada with both a primary and a caucus stems from a disagreement between Republicans and Democrats in that state. Democrats in the Nevada legislature passed a law in 2021 that moved the state from a caucus to a primary system. But Nevada Republicans did not want to use a primary, and last year the Nevada GOP insisted on using a caucus. They got their wish, but when the Nevada GOP also tried to get the state primary canceled, state officials refused. Members of Haley's campaign downplayed the result, saying they had not spent a dime nor an ounce of energy on Nevada as they look ahead to South Carolina, where she was governor from 2011 to 2017. Trump wins Virgin Islands caucuses The former president also won the Virgin Islands Republican caucuses on Thursday, picking up all four delegates available from the U.S. territory in a contest that Haley had actually campaigned in. Per the AP, Trump received 74% of the votes and Haley 26%. We expected to win, but we didnt expect to win by that much," Trump told party officials in St. Thomas by phone after the results came in. You are incredible people I will never forget. What happens next? Haley speaks at a campaign event in Spartanburg, S.C., on Feb. 5. (Matt Kelley/AP) Trump remains the favorite to win the Republican nomination. His Nevada win nearly doubles his delegate haul, up to around almost 60, compared to Haleys 17 delegates. A total of 1,215 delegates is needed to formally clinch the nomination, but Trump could effectively do so in a few weeks. The next contest is the South Carolina primary on Feb. 24, followed by Super Tuesday on March 5. A total of 15 states will hold a primary or caucus that day. If Trump wins overwhelmingly in South Carolina and on Super Tuesday, Haleys path to the nomination which is already exceedingly narrow will have all but disappeared. But if Trump were to somehow become undesirable to the Republican Party, or if he were legally disqualified from running, the party would have to decide on an alternative. The more delegates that Haley accumulates, the more that makes her the next person in line to be considered for the nomination. Donald Trump won the Nevada caucuses on Thursday, a victory even less surprising than his repeat performances in Iowa, New Hampshire, and earlier in the evening on the US Virgin Islands. The former president was going to end the evening with more than 90 per cent of the vote, his highest margin of victory by far, thanks to his lone competitive rival Nikki Haley choosing to participate in a state-sanctioned primary on Tuesday which did not award any delegates. As a result, Mr Trump will leave the state with 26 more delegates to add to his total as he builds up his support for the Republican National Convention this summer. Mr Trumps lone challenger Thursday evening in Nevada was Ryan Binkley, a Texas-based preacher who is running on a conservative Christian-centric message. He was sitting at just nine votes when the race was called just after 8.00 pm local time. The former president is now headed, like his only remaining real challenger, to South Carolina. The Palmetto State is set to be a showdown between Mr Trump and his onetime UN ambassador, who is desperate for a real victory against her opponent as she seeks to convince Republicans that the 2024 primary isnt over. A defeat in her home state would certainly make that argument a lot harder to make. Nevadas split caucus-and-primary system in 2024 came about as the result of a battle between the states Republicans and Democrats over whether to shift the state away from a caucus system. The state legislature passed a law doing so which was signed by the governor, but after a court battle the Republicans decided to hold their own unsanctioned caucus and award the states delegates to the RNC to the victor of that contest. Ms Haley declined to participate, calling the process rigged in Mr Trumps favour. It also was a strategic choice, as the Haley campaign sees her home state and the states which make up the next contests on Super Tuesday, 5 March, as friendlier territory. She continues to make the argument that Mr Trumps significant legal issues will be overburdensome and render him unelectable and at a financial disadvantage to the incumbent president in the fall. But Republican voters have yet to signal that they agree or even care about those concerns, and have delivered Mr Trump victories in every nominating contest so far. On Tuesday, Ms Haley even lost to none of these candidates in the Nevada state-sanctioned primary where Donald Trump was not on the ballot. Her campaign did manage to pull out a suprisingly competitive showing in New Hampshire, the second nominating contest, but even in the Granite State failed to come within 10 points of the frontrunner. South Carolinas Republicans will head to the polls on 24 February. Former President Donald Trump holds up a photo of the border wall as he speaks to the National Border Patrol Council at the White House on February 14, 2020. File Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI Feb. 9 (UPI) -- A focus of former President Donald Trump's re-election campaign is the familiar promise of more restrictive immigration policies and the construction of a southern border wall. But during his first administration, many of those plans didn't hold up. During his 2016 campaign, Trump said in interviews and at campaign rallies that he would suspend immigration from countries "compromised by terrorism," build a wall along the southern border and make Mexico pay for it, end "catch and release" policies and increase the number of immigration and deportation enforcement agents. Once he entered the White House, about 500 miles of border wall was built; Mexico did not pay for it. He waffled on creating a path to citizenship. His "remain in Mexico" policy withstood court challenges, but his travel ban did not. Trump's rhetoric cast migrants crossing the southern border, including refugees fleeing violence, as a threat to the United States. He said immigrants from Mexico were "rapists" and bringing drugs and crime to the United States, stoking a level of fear that was uncommon in past elections. But Colleen Putzel-Kavanaugh, an associate policy analyst for the Migration Policy Institute, told UPI that Trump's campaign rhetoric seized on a narrative of fear that already existed. Donald Trump speaks on immigration while campaigning at the U.S.-Mexico border in Laredo, Texas on July 23, 2015. File Photo by Aaron M. Sprecher/UPI "Trump coming in, really there was an opening created for people who were really against things like DACA or other changes that reinforced our immigration system," she said, referring to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Act. "The rhetoric is really important." Trump's current rhetoric from the campaign trail is fueling congressional debate over a bipartisan bill to provide $20.23 billion for Southwest border enhancements and expand the authority of the president. The bill has failed to pass the House of Representatives. Migrants are stuck between the primary and secondary fencing at the Tijuana-San Diego border for over a week in May as Title 42 neared its expiration. File Photo by Carlos Moreno/UPI President Joe Biden and other Democrats pin the failure on Trump's opposition to the bill, alleging easing the border crisis would hurt Trump politically. Southern border President Donald Trump signs a bill for border funding in the Oval Office on July 1, 2019. File Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI One of Trump's marquee campaign proposals in 2016 was the construction of a southern border wall. On Oct. 22, 2016, Trump said he would pass a law to fund the wall with an agreement that Mexico would reimburse the United States for the costs of construction. Five days after being inaugurated in January 2017, Trump issued a pair of executive orders, including the Border Security and Immigration Enforcement Improvements order, calling for construction of the wall. A member of the Mexican National Guard patrols the area where migrants were stuck between fencing at the Tijuana-San Diego border for over a week last May. File Photo by Carlos Moreno/UPI About 500 miles of border wall was built. The border with Mexico is about 2,000 miles long. Mexico did not pay for any of the construction. In the fall of 2016, weeks before the election, Trump said he would see to it that the long-gestating biometric entry-exit visa tracking system would be completed under his presidency. Migrants from Haiti cross the Rio Grande RIver on the border of Ciudad Acuna, Mexico, on September 17, 2021. More than 10,000 migrants arrived in the border cities of Del Rio Texas in the United States and Ciudad Acuna in Mexico that month and waited under the International Bridge for asylum applications to be processed. File Photo by Miguel Sierra/EPA-EFE Trump ordered that the system's completion be expedited as part of his March 6, 2017, executive order: Protecting the Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry. Congress first called for development of the system with the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996. The biometric entry system, an automated system that recognizes a person's unique characteristics like fingerprints, was fully implemented by the Department of Human Services in 2006. The exit system has not yet been implemented. Trump vowed to triple the number of ICE deportation officers and hire 5,000 additional Border Patrol agents. He requested funding to hire an additional 1,000 or more border agents as part of his annual budget, but Putzel-Kavanaugh said it is difficult to verify whether those positions were filled. "Even if Congress allocates the money it doesn't mean all those people were hired," she said. "It depends on the hiring pool." Trump's first executive orders included the authorization to permit state and local law enforcement agents to act as immigration agents and detain immigrants at the direction of the Department of Homeland Security. 'Wider net' for deportation Along with the promise to build a wall, Trump forecast a more aggressive effort to deport immigrants who did not receive authorization to live or work in the United States. His earliest campaign comments cast his stance as having little tolerance for residency in the United States without proper documentation. He would walk this back some, noting in September 2016 that he would consider allowing undocumented immigrants that serve in the U.S. military to stay. Trump also went on to comment that he recognized the challenge to removing immigrants who have lived in the United States and established themselves for years. He would go back and forth on this sentiment, saying once in August 2016 that he was open to creating a path to citizenship for people who are in the United States but do not have criminal records. By the end of the month, Trump reversed course again, saying the only path to citizenship is to apply, then return to their home country to await a decision. In January 2019, the Migrant Protection Protocols were enacted. These protocols authorized the government to return migrants from Mexico to their home country. It ordered that they wait in Mexico until their scheduled court appearance. The protocols excluded unaccompanied children. The former president followed this policy with Asylum Eligibility and Procedural Modifications, which made immigrants who entered or attempted to enter the United States without applying for authorization ineligible for asylum. Trump did expand on the authorization to remove undocumented immigrants, as well as narrowing who would be eligible for citizenship or asylum in the United States. "There were changes to interior enforcement that made a wider net for people to be deported by ICE," Putzel-Kavanaugh told UPI of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. "But it was actually fewer people deported than Obama because ICE resources were redirected to the southern border." In President Barack Obama's last term, nearly 1.5 million noncitizens were removed from the United States, according to a report by the Office of Homeland Security Statistics. Nearly 1.2 million were removed under the Trump administration between fiscal years 2017 and 2020, though the COVID-19 pandemic played a role in slowing immigration-related activities. Travel ban Trump's first two executive orders called for the broad removal of "ineligible immigrants," called for individuals suspected of violating immigration law to be detained and reinstituted the Secure Communities program that outlines the priorities for removing undocumented immigrants. In the summer of 2016, Trump said he would immediately suspend immigration from countries "compromised by terrorism." On Jan. 27, 2017, Trump signed another executive order: Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry Into the United States. The order called for the suspension of the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program for 120 days. It also would institute an indefinite suspension of entry by Syrian refugees and a 90-day ban on immigration from Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen. In September 2017, the ban was expanded to include Chad. Sudan was once included but later removed. The executive order faced many legal challenges and was quickly shelved through multiple iterations. Critics referred to it as a "Muslim ban," because it focused on countries that predominantly practice Islam. During fiscal year 2017 -- starting October 2016 -- 53,691 refugees arrived in the United States. It was the fewest arrivals since 2007. The country of origin for the largest portion of refugees was Afghanistan with 1,311. President Joe Biden revoked the travel ban on his first day in office in 2021. Family separations By 2019, reports of inhumane living conditions at Border Patrol encampments and children being separated from their families were numerous. The Department of Health and Human Services identified 2,737 cases of children who were separated from their parents as of January 2019. In its report, it noted that thousands more may have also been separated. The reported number rose to more than 3,000. The Office of Inspector General later reported that Trump's attorney general, Jeff Sessions, drove a zero-tolerance policy at the border, using it as a deterrent. "We need to take away children; if care about kids, don't bring them in; won't give amnesty to people with kids," Sessions told U.S. attorneys, according to the report. In June 2018, Trump signed the executive order: Affording Congress an Opportunity to Address Family Separation, directing for immigration proceedings involving families to be prioritized. "It is unfortunate that Congress' failure to act and court orders have put the administration in the position of separating alien families to effectively enforce the law," the executive order reads. Impact of policy As Trump again fashions himself as the "strong border" candidate, immigration data tell a cloudier story. In Trump's first fiscal year in office, more people obtained lawful residence in the United States than seven of the eight fiscal years of the Obama presidency. There were fewer apprehensions at the border, returns or removals than any year since 1971. Enforcement data is not the only indicator of "strong" or effective policy, Putzel-Kavanaugh said. In fact, the definition of a "strong border" is likely to differ from person to person, she said. "If you look at enforcement funding over the last decade or more, it has increased steadily every single year," she said. "Those resources are going toward funding more Border Patrol agents, increasing detection technology, even paving roads along the southern border so Border Patrol can drive them more easily." Putzel-Kavanaugh added that more often migrants are waiting to be apprehended by Border Patrol agents, in search of protections. "The border has changed over time," she added. "The challenges in some ways have been similar, but they've also fundamentally changed over time. The definition of what a strong border is, that can't be a static definition." According to the Migration Policy Institute's report on the Trump administration's border policies, 17% fewer immigrants submitted applications for permanent residence in fiscal year 2019 than 2016. There were 22% fewer in 2020 than 2016. The number of charging documents -- documents that enter immigrants into removal procedures -- rose by 52% from 2016 to 2019. "The stream of different initiatives at the border, many of those were also mired up in litigation. That doesn't say in the time they were in place they didn't have different effects," Putzel-Kavanaugh said. "There were lower arrivals but also harsh effects on the migrants themselves." An extremely unique mansion has landed on the real estate market outside of Atlanta, Georgia, and it has a shocking surprise behind its walls one that you wouldnt normally see inside a home. An old west town. Thats right, the 24,888-square-foot mega mansion thats listed for $8.95 million has its very own wild, wild west town that takes up an entire wing of the home over 4,000-square-feet of it. The part of the home was modeled after the 1993 Val Kilmer western Tombstone, the Wall Street Journal reported it was also based off of the city in Arizona itself. The home is currently owned by Ron Wallace, the former president of UPS International, a news release noted. Other features across the massive four-bedroom, 4.5-plus-bathroom estate include: Theater 14-plus car garage Gym Front yard suitable for helicopter landings Gated Floor-to-ceiling windows 15,000-square-foot basement The fully gated property sits at the back of a 9+/- acre parcel less than one mile to the shops and restaurants of downtown Milton and just 30 minutes north of downtown Atlanta, the listing on Sothebys International Realty says. This distinctive, award-winning estate offers a premium opportunity for the discerning buyer or car enthusiast looking for a versatile investment. The listing is held by Bonnie Smith. Cape-Cod style cottage for sale in odd location on top of penthouse in NYC. See it An easel used by Bryan Bradley, a forensic artist with the Houston Police Department, is seen, Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024, in Houston. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Color pencils used by Thurston Johnson, a forensic artist with the Houston Police Department, for skin tones are seen, Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024, in Houston. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Thurston Johnson spent decades as a patrol and code enforcement officer who liked to draw, before realizing his hobby was how he could best keep Houston streets safer. I really liked catching bad guys, he said. This gives me that. Especially if one of these sketches leads to an arrest, its like OK, we got them. Johnson and Bryan Bradley work as full-time sketch artists for the Houston Police Department, part of a shrinking industry of mostly freelance artists, making them a pair of little more than two dozen who work full time across the nation, they said. MORE FROM HOUSTON CHRONICLE: Administrators work to reduce backlog at Houstons city crime lab amid criticisms Advertisement Article continues below this ad As public safety has grown to rely more on camera and visual technology to track down criminals, HPD has long stood somewhat apart in its focus on sketch artists. Lois Gibson, before her retirement from the police department in 2021, claimed the Guinness World Record for the worlds most successful forensic artist, helping investigators identify more than 750 criminals and secure more than a 1,000 convictions. The sketch artist team is housed in the victim services division. Most full-time sketch artists are focused on forensics, such as sketching skull reconstruction. Bryan Bradley, a forensic artist with the Houston Police Department, talks some of his sketches alongside fellow artist Thurston Johnson, Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024, in Houston. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer In 2023, Bradley and Johnson aided in between 65 and 70 HPD cases and lent their expertise to nearby agencies, including Brazoria and Galveston counties. Last year, Bradley even helped a police department in India with a sketch, he said. This year, they hope to surpass their 2023 caseload. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Despite the focus on Flock cameras and new technology to solve crimes, both Johnson and Bradley say old school law enforcement disciplines like sketching can still offer benefits to detectives. This is about helping harness the power of memory, Johnson said. A forensic sketch book along with pencils are seen in the Houston Police Department, Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024, in Houston. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Working with crime victims The sketch artists receive their cases from investigators and set up times to meet with victims. Often, detectives dont enlist sketch artists until all other options to solve a case have been exhausted, Johnson said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad MORE FROM HOUSTON CHRONICLE: Sugar Land city employee killed by SUV running from Missouri City police Bradley and Johnson then meet the victim and help steer them through the process of a suspect sketch, most taking about an hour. Bradley said most of his 2023 cases were robberies and homicides, and Johnson said he spent a lot of 2023 working missing persons and sexual assault cases. Some of the process is science and psychology, with the sketch artists equipped with books full of facial features to help stir the memories of those theyre interviewing, Bradley said. And still some is reading the reactions of those theyre interviewing and helping them through traumatic memories, Johnson said. Youre constantly thinking about how to make victims comfortable, Johnson said. Thurston Johnson, a forensic artist with the Houston Police Department, talks about his daily work, Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024, in Houston. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Both said children are great at remembering details in a way that adults sometimes dont. Johnson said during one interview of young brothers, he even enlisted them to help him draw and turned it into a contest to spur their creativity. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Another way in which Johnson and Bradley are unique is that they focus on interviewing witnesses to crimes, Johnson said. A lot of it is trauma-based, Bradley said. Johnson described their work as essentially helping victims investigate their own cases. Becoming a sketch artist Bradley and Johnson credited Gibson in encouraging and inspiring them to become sketch artists Bradley had always liked to sketch, but hadnt considered that it might connect to a public safety career before officers in East Texas recognized his talent and asked for his help sketching a suspect, he said. After that, he connected with Gibson. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Bryan Bradley, a forensic artist with the Houston Police Department, shows some of his sketches, Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024, in Houston. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Gibson was also the first to suggest Johnson might make use of his sketching hobby as part of her team, he said. She noticed a work he had brought to the office to give a co-worker and thought he might be a good fit. Bradley said theres a feeling of accomplishment if the sketch looks especially close to the person charged. This is an art, after all, he said. Youre relying on a persons memory, which will not always be 100%. That contribution to solving a crime is what brought Bradley into something he now sees as his lifes work. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Warren Christopher Clark is shown at left in a mugshot posted by the Syrian Democratic Forces in early January 2019. In the photo at right, Clark is shown in his senior portrait from William P. Clements High School in Sugar Land. Courtesy A Sugar Land man and former substitute teacher who in 2019 was captured by Kurdish rebels in Syria and accused of trying to help the Islamic State group, a terrorist organization, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, prosecutors said Thursday. Warren Christopher Clark, 40, was convicted of providing material support to a designated terrorist organization, according to court records. Clark is also known as Abu Muhammad Al-Ameriki. Advertisement Article continues below this ad After he is released from prison, Clark will spend the rest of his life under supervised release, according to the Justice Department. JUDGE SUSPENDED: Judge Frank Aguilar suspended with pay following Galveston assault arrest In the interests of national security, our laws prohibit Americans from receiving military training from designated foreign terrorist organizations," Alamdar S. Hamdani, the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of Texas, said in a news release. "Warren Clark ran afoul of those laws when he illegally crossed the border into Syria and underwent military training from ISIS, a brutal terrorist organization. Clark was raised in Sugar Land and is the child of two former Houston Independent School District high school teachers. He graduated from the University of Houston in 2007 with a major in political science and a minor in global business. After college, he worked as a substitute teacher in the Fort Bend ISD. He also taught in Saudi Arabia and Turkey. Clark entered Syria through Turkey in 2015 and received military training and religious instruction from ISIS, according to the FBI. In messages sent to his family, Clark said he was living happily abroad and would not return to the United States unless the Islamic State conquers the US, according to the Justice Department. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In 2018, it was revealed that Clark applied for an English teaching position with ISIS, according to records obtained by scholars at George Washington Universitys Program on Extremism. When he was captured Jan. 6, 2019, Syrian media outlets wrote that Clark had been found with other men including another American and an Irish citizen who had been "preparing to attack the civilians who were trying to get out of the war zone." Clark was returned to the U.S. and charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist group between 2011 and October 2015. He pleaded not guilty to the charge in 2019 but changed his plea last year. Clark later said he never engaged in combat on behalf of ISIS. In an interview with NBC News, Clark said he didn't regret joining the terrorist group and that he was originally drawn to it out of curiosity. Researchers at George Washington University, who tracked Americans who joined ISIS in Syria and Iraq, were told that Clark had at one point been imprisoned by ISIS because he tried to defect. Advertisement Article continues below this ad During his sentencing hearing Thursday, Clark read a lengthy statement in which he accused the U.S. of war crimes and refused to apologize, according to the Courthouse News Service. The United States government and prosecutors have borne false witness against me and slandered my name, he said, according to the news service. They have assassinated my character and portrayed me as an unhinged savage, an uncivilized barbarian who must be kept locked away to keep society safe, and perpetuated stereotypes about Black Muslim men." Judge George Hanks told Clark he had betrayed his country, his parents and his friends. Zelenskyy and Zaluzhnyi. Screenshot: video of the Office of the President The Economist has published an article about the dismissal of Valerii Zaluzhnyi, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and the possible consequences of this dismissal for President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Ukraine. Source: The Economist Quote: "But the generals [Zaluzhnyi] dismissal is arresting for another, more important reason. It marks a new and crucial phase in the warone that Mr Zelenskyy is in danger of getting wrong." Details: The Economist noted that when Zelenskyy finally replaced Valerii Zaluzhnyi with Oleksandr Syrskyi as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces on 8 February within a wider reorganisation, it was as if something momentous had happened. The Economist said that "this is partly because of General Zaluzhnyis crucial role in the countrys valiant, against-the-odds repulse of Russian forces in the early days of the invasion, and his popularity among his troops and Ukraines civilians." Quote: "The differences between the actor-turned-politician and his battle-hardened commander were partly about culture and personality." "Only as the Russian and Ukrainian armies dug themselves in, and the front lines stagnated, did these frictions start to cause harm." "It is no secret that, as their relationship worsened, the two men also came to differ about what to do on the battlefield." "What really doomed the relationship between Mr Zelenskyy and General Zaluzhnyi was the presidents shifting view about how the war would determine the sort of country Ukraine should become." Details: The Economist noted that Zelenskyy and his office held Zaluzhnyi responsible for last year's failed counteroffensive. The Presidents Office wanted the Ukrainian army to prepare for further attacks and pressured Zaluzhnyi to develop battle plans and take the unpopular decision to call up more troops. Zaluzhnyi rejected their arguments. He noted that his caution after the failure of the first attack had led to the loss of vital troops and equipment. Zaluzhnyi argued that he could not plan the next counteroffensive without knowing what resources he had. The Economist suggested that one of the risks for Zelenskyy would be the complaints provoked in the army by the dismissal of the "much-loved commander" [Zaluzhnyi]. The Economist also stated that Oleksandr Syrskyi "has a reputation for being willing to engage the enemy, even if the cost in men and machines is high." Quote: "He is a divisive figure who provokes strong reactions from serving officers. Some praise his professionalism, others say he terrifies his subordinates and rules by fear. He is less likely to question the priorities of his president. As he takes on the top job, he will have to soften his style of command and learn to speak truth to power." Details: The Economist stated that Zaluzhnyis dismissal would have political consequences as well, as he was the hero in Ukraine. The most important question now is whether Zelenskyy will be able to use Zaluzhnyis dismissal to the benefit and reorient his vision of the war. Quote: "Today he [Zelenskyy] is still publicly clinging to his promise that Ukraine will take back every inch of soil occupied by Russian forces, even if he privately knows that this will not happen soon, if at all. If Ukrainian forces could expel the Russian invaders it would be a wonderful thing. However, unless something completely unexpected changes, a war defined by territory is a war Ukraine cannot win." Details: The Economist noted it is important that the current changes do not impair Ukraine's combat capability. They also expressed an opinion that Zelenskyy had to "see this reorganisation as a chance to reframe his vision of the war." Quote: "To sustain itself in the long fight ahead, Ukraine needs to increase its resilience." "Ukraine will emerge as the victor from this bloody conflict so long as it is a prospering, democratic Westward-leaning country." "About that, there should be no difference between the president and his commanders." Background: Earlier on Thursday, Zelenskyy and Zaluzhnyi simultaneously reported a joint meeting and said they had discussed changes in the leadership of the Armed Forces. Zelenskyy appointed Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Mykhailo Podoliak, Advisor to the Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, said that the need to review the military tactics and prevent stagnation on the front was among the reasons Zaluyzhnyi had been dismissed. Support UP or become our patron! The nations second-busiest intercity passenger train line is partially closed. Again. A landslide in San Clemente has stopped rail service indefinitely between Orange and San Diego counties, a key segment of the 351-mile coastal rail corridor that runs between San Luis Obispo, Los Angeles and San Diego. This is the fifth time in three years that train service has been interrupted by hillside erosion in the area, upending people's commutes, long-distance trips and freight movement along this important route. The track was closed to Amtraks Pacific Surfliner and Metrolink trains for six months last year. And with climate change fueling more intense storms, coastal erosion and sea level rise, closures of the ocean-side rail line are expected to become a regular occurrence. It's time for Californians and transportation officials to face the inevitable reality: Saving the coastal line means moving it away from the unstable land of the ocean's edge. Read more: Editorial: The 10 Freeway was fixed in days. Why cant more transportation projects get fast tracked? State and local authorities were quick to declare a state of emergency this month, freeing up to $10 million in funding to stabilize the hillside. But thats a temporary repair. There is far less momentum and progress toward a necessary and permanent fix, which will probably include moving portions of the tracks inland, away from the crumbling coastline. Lawmakers, along with transit and environmental advocates , warn the Lossan rail corridor which stands for Los Angeles-San Diego-San Luis Obispo is facing an existential crisis. Ridership is down to 4 million passengers from a peak of 8 million before the pandemic, and the increasing service suspensions are undermining its reliability and desirability as an alternative to driving. The line is also a crucial freight corridor, moving a billion dollars' worth of goods each year, and connects military bases in the state, including Vandenberg Space Force Base and Camp Pendleton. Read more: Editorial: Funding for California's bullet trains puts the high-speed rail revolution back on track Last month, lawmakers sent a letter to Gov. Gavin Newsoms administration urging that the California State Transportation Agency take the lead in managing the rail line and charting a path forward. The success of the rail line has been hampered by the lack of clear leadership, which is shared by five public transportation agencies and two private freight railroads, all of which have different priorities. Plus, the many cities and private property owners adjacent to the rail line have their own opinions on what should be done and who should pay for it. There isnt a single overarching authority elevating whats good for California's future over parochial interests. There is a crisis happening along this rail line and it hasnt gotten the attention it deserves, said Sen. Catherine Blakespear (D-Encinitas), who is chair of a Senate subcommittee looking at how to fix the struggling rail line. I dont just want it to not fail. I want it to thrive. Read more: Opinion: They traveled on Metro for a week and loved it. Can two dozen German journalists be wrong? All Californians should want that too. There is tremendous potential. Just look at Amtraks service between Washington, D.C., and Boston. It had 12 million passenger trips last year and is considered such an essential economic engine for the region that the Biden administration awarded $16.4 billion to fund 25 projects on the route. There are more than 14 million residents in the region served by the coastal rail line, many of whom would relish the chance to take a fast, comfortable train between, say, Los Angeles and San Diego, rather than slog through traffic on Interstate 5. But prolonged track closures, unreliable and infrequent service, especially outside of commuter hours, disconnected ticketing systems and the lack of transit connections at stations all make the train a hard sell in Southern California. Making the coastal rail corridor safe and successful will not be cheap, easy or fast. It could cost upward of $5 billion to relocate portions of the Orange County rail line inland and $4 billion to move tracks off the eroding cliffs in Del Mar. There are additional track and infrastructure projects needed so trains can operate more frequently and passengers can seamlessly transfer from train to train. The work will take decades. Thats why it is important to accelerate the planning and set priorities now. We know what climate change will do to the coastline in the coming years. And we know what we have to do to ensure California doesn't lose this essential rail connection. If its in the news right now, the L.A. Times Opinion section covers it. Sign up for our weekly opinion newsletter. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Florida legislators sometimes make it impossible to earn the publics respect. Case in point: The Senates 39-0 vote for a bill that would block valid complaints sent to the Florida Commission on Ethics. The Ethics Commission has often been unpopular with lawmakers or local officials who find oversight irksome, but the Florida Constitution protects it from being abolished. Credit for that goes to Reubin Askew, the governor in the 1970s and an anti-corruption crusader who embedded it in an ethics initiative that nearly 80% of voters approved in 1976. But as recently as five years ago, GOP leaders were also on board in fact, former Senate President Don Gaetz pushed state laws and another constitutional amendment that made protections even stronger. That amendment, which appeared on the 2018 ballot, got more yes votes than any other amendment that year. But the Legislature hobbled the 1976 amendment almost immediately, allowing it to act only in response to sworn complaints from others. Now its enemies would further weaken the watchdog by requiring complaints to be based on personal knowledge or information other than hearsay. Ethics destruction in 11 words The crippling provision is just 11 words long and would also apply to local ethics commissions. The hearsay prohibition would include media exposes the basis for most of the commissions complaints. Ive never seen a power grab like this, says Ben Wilcox of the nonprofit watchdog group Integrity Florida. This legislation will do away with ethics enforcement in Florida. Incredibly destructive and corrosive, Carolyn Klancke, a past deputy executive director and general counsel for the commission, told the Florida Center for Government Accountability. Klancke, who now heads the Florida Ethics Institute, said it would prevent the commission from acting even on official audit and inspector general reports, which are not sworn complaints. Wrongdoing by public officials rarely takes place at times and in places accessible to the general public, wrote Bonnie Williams, a former executive director of the commission, in an email to the Sun Sentinel Editorial Board. Rather, it occurs in the rarefied air of political culture or within the confines of officials private lives. Of necessity, citizens rely on documents and reports, investigative journalism, information from persons close to the potential violation or violator, or other indirect means. Restricting filers of complaints to those with direct knowledge restricts citizens participation, will significantly restrict the number of complaints filed, and will abridge public faith in enforcement of the ethics laws, Williams said. It could extinguish what remains of public faith in the Legislature. A dirty deed on the Senate floor How this was done is as odious as the outcome. The personal knowledge provision was one of four amendments in the Senate, filed a day before by Sen. Danny Burgess, R-Zephyrhills. He chairs the committee that crafted the bill (SB 7014), which otherwise consists mainly of deadlines for action on commission cases and a questionable supermajority requirement for votes to reject or deviate from a staff recommendation. Only two senators seemed to recognize the damage that personal knowledge would do, but they swallowed their concerns as the Senate passed the bill with only desultory debate. They were Sens. Jason Pizzo, D-Hollywood, and Bobby Powell, D-West Palm Beach. Pizzo even described it accurately as a poison pill. Burgess conceded it would shut the commissions front door to citizens attempting to file complaints based on what they had read or heard. A chilling effect There was no recorded vote on any of the amendments another black mark against the Senates lack of transparency. Billy Townsend, a Polk County activist who blogs as Public Enemy Number 1, posted that the personal knowledge rule would have barred his complaint against a school board member who had been publicly identified as a preferred vendor of required school uniforms. The ethics commission recently voted probable cause to proceed on his complaint. Townsend argues that journalists should file ethics complaints over apparent violations they report. He wrote that he thinks thats what the personal knowledge amendment is daring them to do. That may be, but the Orlando Sentinel like most news outlets strongly disagrees with it. To file an official complaint makes the journalist a part of the story with a personal interest in the outcome, which is properly against virtually every ethics code in our profession. Another destructive amendment to SB 7014 would bind municipal and county ethics commissions to the same personal knowledge rule. It would entitle candidates, like officeholders, to recover costs and legal fees for complaints filed with malicious intent or reckless disregard of the truth. Those findings would be made by political bodies rather than the courts, which is wrong. Another destructive Burgess amendment would allow attorneys who are required to file as public officials to withhold the identity of clients by claiming disclosure would violate attorney-client confidentiality. He said that answers the complaints of local officials who say they are resigning rather than reveal their clients. Florida is better off without them. The Florida League of Cities has eight lobbyists registered on CS/HB 1597, the companion bill in the House, which presently lacks the Senates changes. Asking whether they are supporting what the Senate did, a spokesperson said they are simply watching for amendments. The Legislature has shown no interest on what the commission itself asked for this year, such as whistleblower protection for citizens who file complaints. We call on House members to defend the Ethics Commission rather than betray it as the Senate did. The public is watching. The Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board includes Editor-in-Chief Julie Anderson, Opinion Editor Krys Fluker and Viewpoints Editor Jay Reddick. The Sun Sentinel Editorial Board consists of Editorial Page Editor Steve Bousquet, Deputy Editorial Page Editor Dan Sweeney, editorial writer Martin Dyckman and Anderson. Send letters to insight@orlandosentinel.com. EAST GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) Police and school administrators are investigating cyberbullying linked to the phrase Almost Friday going on at East Grand Rapids High School, the district said in a letter to families. The letter said that over the past two weeks, several student-led Instagram accounts have been actively engaging in the posting of harmful and inappropriate content toward other EGRHS students The accounts include the phrase Almost Friday. Michigan enacts laws to fight cyberbullying The actions of the students who are managing these private and anonymous social media accounts and of those sharing photos and videos of peers have created a substantial disruption to our school climate and culture and negatively impacted our students mental health and well-being, the letter said. The school administration said it has contacted the East Grand Rapids Department of Public Safety to address possible legal ramifications. U-M study shows anonymous school tip programs are saving lives The school is asking parents and guardians to discuss social media usage with their child(ren) and remind them of the importance of responsible online behavior, the impact of cyberbullying, posting or sharing inappropriate content and emphasize the significance of creating a culture of respect and empathy online and in person. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. A maintenance worker with a contagious smile was found dead after he was electrocuted at a Coca-Cola warehouse in North Carolina, according to officials and a news outlet. On Thursday, Feb. 8, Raleigh-area officers responded to the beverage distribution center and found the mans body in a Fire Suppression Riser Room, according to the Clayton Police Department. The man was identified as 34-year-old Nathan Garrett Vanbeek of Selma. Vanbeek was an employee of Stoltz Management Company, which does maintenance work at the Coca-Cola center, police wrote in a news release. The maintenance company and Coca-Cola didnt immediately respond to McClatchy News requests for comment on Feb. 9. Officers said they were called after a worker found Vanbeeks body at the facility in Clayton, a Johnston County town roughly 15 miles southeast of Raleigh. After further investigation, it was determined that Vanbeek was removing a heater fan from a wall inside the room and appeared to have been electrocuted during the process, police wrote. Vanbeek is remembered as a man with a contagious smile and personality, his cousin, Amanda Guenther, told WNCN. At a young age Nathan would tell his nana he wanted to move to North Carolina where the weather was beautiful, the hunting was good, and the racing was even better, Guenther told the TV station. Nathan was living his dream. Officers said their investigation into Vanbeeks death continues. The N.C. Department of Labor told McClatchy News in an email that Clayton police reported a workers death to its Occupational Safety and Health Division. The department said it assigned a compliance officer to begin an inspection of the accident/incident. Car wash employee dies after getting trapped in machinery in North Carolina, cops say Lineman killed on job was a dad of 3 and preacher, NC reports say. One of the best Nominations sought for Hanover community service awards Nominations are being accepted through Friday, Feb. 23, for the 2024 Annual Hanover Township Supervisor Brian P. McGuire Community Service Awards. The awards are designed to recognize organizations and individuals who volunteer their time to make Hanover Township an outstanding place to live, work and raise a family, according to a news release. People and organizations can be nominated in any of the follow categories: Adult Volunteer Service Award (18 or older); Youth Volunteer Volunteer Service Award (under 18); Senior Volunteer Service Award (55 or older); Business Community Service Award; Service Club/Organization. Applications are available at Hanover Township Town Hall, 250 S. Route 59, Bartlett, and online at www.hanover-township.org. For more information, call 630-837-0301. Lenten/spring concert series being held Sundays at First Congregational Three Lenten/spring concerts will be held at 4 p.m. Feb. 25, March 10 and March 24 at First Congregational United Church of Christ, 256 E. Chicago St., Elgin. The Judson University Choir will be performing Feb. 25, followed by sopranos Kathleen Monson and Kristina Bachrach and pianist Marianne Kim on March 10, and the Chicago Harp Quartet on March 24. All three concerts are free and open to the public. Free-will offerings will be accepted. For more information, call 847-741-4045. CASA Kane County hosting Childrens Champion Gala March 2 CASA Kane County will host its 30th Annual Childrens Champion Celebration Gala at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, March 2, at the Q Center, 1405 N. 5th Ave., St. Charles. Featuring the theme Change a Childs Story, the event will include dinner, music, dancing, a grand raffle, and live and silent auctions items, according to a news release. Proceeds from the event will support CASA Kane Countys mission of advocating for children who have experienced abuse and neglect. Tickets are $250, and sponsorship packages are available. For more information, email NatalieB@casakanecounty.org, call 630-444-3112 or go to www.casakanecounty.org/casa-events/childrens-champion-celebration. Benefit to raise money for second-annual Elgin Pride Parade and Festival Applications are now available for vendors, parade groups and sponsors that want to take part in the second annaul Elgin Pride Parade and Festival being held Saturday, June 1, in downtown Elgin. To raise money for the events, organizers are hosting the Big Queer Variety Show at 7 p.m. Saturday, March 9, at The Haight, 166 Symphony Way, Elgin. The event will feature a variety of queer performers and entertainers, pizza, a cash bar, a raffle and music, according to a news release. Tickets are $25. To donate items for the raffle, email elgbtq@gmail.com. For more information, go to www.elginpride.com. Elise Stefanik, who many view as a top contender to be Donald Trumps 2024 pick as vice president, says she would not have certified Joe Bidens election if she, not Mike Pence, were VP at the time. I would not have done what Mike Pence did, the GOP conference chair told CNNs Kaitlan Collins Thursday night when asked what she would have done as vice president on Jan. 6, 2021, when thousands of Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol as Pence was presiding over the certification of the Electoral College votes. Rep. Elise Stefanik, who is under consideration to potentially serve as Donald Trumps VP should he be the nominee, says she would have blocked legitimate votes on Jan. 6 had she been in his position. pic.twitter.com/ntqY6ZlkXs Kaitlan Collins (@kaitlancollins) February 9, 2024 Pence refused Trumps pleas to embrace a fringe legal theory and reject electoral votes for Biden. Some of those who stormed the Capitol that day chanted hang Mike Pence, and Trump reportedly said he deserved it. Pence crashed and burned in the 2024 Republican primary, with many Republican voters calling him a traitor. Three years later, as Trump runs for president again while fighting multiple prosecutions related to his attempts to void his 2020 electoral loss, he has made personal loyalty and election denial key tests for potential 2024 running mates. Stefanik, who joined other pro-Trump lawmakers in objecting to 2020 Biden electors from Georgia, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin, has gone down the MAGA rabbit hole since her election in 2014 as an establishment Republican praised by Paul Ryan as the future of the Republican Party. If Trump wins the White House in 2024, his vice president will be in position to support or undermine whatever happens in the Electoral College count at the end of Trumps second term. Now considered a candidate to be chosen as Trumps VP, Stefanik has echoed and amplified Trumps message casting doubt on 2020 and even sowing preemptive disbelief in the integrity of this years election. She said earlier this month its too soon to say whether shell vote to certify the 2024 Electoral College votes. Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio), another potential vice presidential aspirant, declared last week he would not have certified the election in 2020 if he were vice president. Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), currently campaigning with Trump as an audition for vice president, has the unfortunate history of voting to certify Bidens victory in 2020. He said last year that the election had cheating but was not stolen. During the August 2023 GOP primary debate, he said Pence did the right thing certifying the election. Other hopefuls in the Trump veepstakes include South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, who also said last year Pence did the right thing certifying Bidens victory but called the election rigged. Kari Lake, a former news anchor, didnt just make Trumps 2020 election denial central to her 2022 Trump-endorsed campaign for Arizona governor. She emulated him by challenging the results when she lost. Lake has reportedly since been close to Trump (a source told People magazine last year she was at Mar-a-Lago all the time) and is now running for Senate while also lobbying to be VP. Other less likely vice presidential picks have contorted themselves to find a position on certifying presidential elections that wont offend Trump. Vivek Ramaswamy made the incoherent argument that he would have certified the election only if Congress passed major election law changes in return. More from Rolling Stone Best of Rolling Stone COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) On Thursday afternoon, a Franklin County judge heard arguments in a lawsuit against Speaker of the Ohio House Jason Stephens (R-Kitts Hill), brought forward by members of his own party. Republican infighting has plagued the Ohio Statehouse for more than a year now. Last January, a group of 22 Republicans broke from the rest of the party and joined Democrats to elect Stephens to speakership beating out Representative Derek Merrin (R-Monclova Township), who was originally poised to win the position, and received the vote from a majority of Republicans. New witness comes forward, causing delay in Jason Meade murder trial Representatives Ron Ferguson (R-Wintersville), Phil Plummer (R-Dayton) and Merrin are suing Stephens and Rep. Jeff LaRe (R-Violet Township) over campaign finance account disputes. Right now, Stephens has control over the account, which has just over $3 million in it, despite the plaintiffs in the case saying a majority of Republicans elected Plummer to control the account known as OHRA. On Thursday, Judge Mark Serrott, endorsed by the Democratic party, heard arguments about whether to put a temporary restraining order (TRO) on the account, essentially freezing the funds for at least two weeks. This has to be embarrassing for the party, Serrott said. The account is used for election related expenses, like campaign signs, TV and radio ads, and consulting. Lisa Ferguson, Rep. Fergusons mom, is representing the plaintiffs in the case. On Thursday, she argued for the TRO on the funds, saying the Stephens camp is getting an unfair advantage by having control of the fund. Youre taking an important tool and weapon that will change the landscape of the election, Lisa said. We are just asking that you freeze the funds, so everyone is on an even playing field. The complaint cites the Ohio Revised Code, which states, Each legislative campaign fund shall be administered and controlled in a manner designated by the caucus. The plaintiffs argue that Stephens and LaRe have falsely maintained control of funds despite the caucus voting others as chair. If I do nothing and [Stephens] continues to ignore the vote, there is no remedy and the statute is meaningless, and there is no answer, period, Serrott said. And that doesnt seem fair to me when you have a statute that is fairly clear. The defense is represented by Robert Tucker, who said the timing of the lawsuit raises questions. Had they filed this lawsuit in January or February of 2023, then the entire course of events would be different here, Tucker said. It wasnt until they realized there was $3 million in the account that they wanted to bring this forward. Tucker said this case is all about the money. Tucker argued that the group suing for control has not raised or contributed money to the fund and said who controls it and how it is administered are political, not legal, questions. But Ferguson said internal mediation to solve the infighting was attempted during that time, prompting the delay. There were discussions and efforts made to come to a conclusion without coming to this, but as we knew the resolution wasnt working, L. Ferguson said. We attempted to reach out and reach a resolution. The judge said, I understand why there was some delay in filing the lawsuit. Tucker said the documentation that Plummer was voted to control funds is questionable or unclear at best. There is no evidence of who actually received the invite to the meeting, there is no evidence of who actually voted at the meeting, there is just no validity to the vote whatsoever, Tucker said. Serrott said that Stephens has put it in writing that he will support all incumbents. The defense also pointed that out. There is no reason for the plaintiffs to believe that, Lisa said. He has never spent money on Brian Stewart or Beth Lear, or Josh Williams. There are people who have requested funds who have been denied who are incumbents. Serrott said he will have a decision about the TRO, by Tuesday, though, he said he has given indication of which way he is leaning. Its a squabble between Republicans that you are asking a Democratic judge to solve, he said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. Galveston ISD Trustee David H. O'Neal Jr. speaks during a discussion of SB 763 during the board meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024 at Galveston ISD Support Center in Galveston. The board policy committee made of trustees discussed a resolution regarding the bill which allows districts the ability to employ chaplains on school campuses. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer A sign-up form to speak during the public comment section during the Galveston ISD board meeting is photographed on Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024 at Galveston ISD Support Center in Galveston. The board policy committee made of trustees discussed a resolution regarding the bill which allows districts the ability to employ chaplains on school campuses. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer Galveston ISD Superintendent Dr. Matthew Neighbors speaks during a discussion of SB 763 during the board meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024 at Galveston ISD Support Center in Galveston. The board policy committee made of trustees discussed a resolution regarding the bill which allows districts the ability to employ chaplains on school campuses. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer Houston-area school districts have until March 1 to vote on whether to hire chaplains in schools or allow them as volunteers. Here's what you need to know about the bill and how your district has voted. What is the Chaplains Bill? The Chaplains Bill, or Senate Bill 763, was a piece of legislation passed in 2023 that allows chaplains to be hired in school districts to provide student support services or to volunteer in schools for similar purposes. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Early versions of the bill stated that a chaplain could be hired instead of a counselor, but due to uproar within the education and school counseling community, the wording was changed to employ or accept as a volunteer a chaplain. Under the law Gov. Greg Abbott signed in August as Chapter 23 of the Texas Education Code states, chaplains employed or volunteering in the district are allowed to provide suicide prevention, intervention and postvention, mental health support, behavioral health support and create programs for overall student support. So while the bill does not say chaplains can replace counselors explicitly, or factor into the student to counselor ratio as required by the Texas School Counselor Association, they are allowed to serve alongside counselors and perform some of the same duties. Whos paying for it? Section 48.115(b) of the Texas Education Code was amended alongside this bill to allow safety and security funding to pay for chaplains and their programs. SB763 did not create any new revenue streams for hiring chaplains, instead the amended education code mandates that if a school district were to hire chaplains, they would need to use their limited safety and security funding to do so. Advertisement Article continues below this ad SB 763: New Texas law allowing chaplains to counsel school kids may draw boards deeper into culture wars Also passed during last years legislative session was House Bill 3, regarding hiring security officers at each school campus in Texas. Districts who aim to comply with this bill, for example, must do so with the same funding stream that they would use to pay chaplains. Some school boards have voted against adopting the resolution pertaining to SB 763 because they dont want to re-allocate their limited security funding. Who authored it? Sen. Mayes Middleton, a Republican who represents the Galveston-area in District 11, brought this bill to the Texas Senate. According to his Senate profile, he regularly ranks as the top most conservative members of the legislature. Middleton is a proponent of having chaplains serve as religious and spiritual presence within schools. Rocky Malloy, CEO and founder of the National School Chaplain Association also played a part in pushing the bill through, testifying on the senate floor in Austin and now traveling across the state to speak at board meetings in support of the bill. He is also founder of the non-profit Mission Generation, which aims to reach children with Christianity in schools. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Why was it passed? Supporters of the bill say it will help fill the gap in the school counselor shortage seen across the U.S. in the wake of the pandemic. Advocates see it as a reaction to the increase in gun violence in schools after the Robb Elementary School shooting in May 2022. They also hope that chaplains in schools could prevent violence, decrease suicides and give students a way to discuss beliefs that they may not feel comfortable sharing around peers. School counselors say that the shortage is seen across the educational spectrum, but supplementing that need with chaplains would negatively affect student outcomes in the long term. Opponents say that chaplains are not required to have the same level of education and experience as counselors and do not have a focus on student academic and career outcomes, which is part of the school counselors responsibilities. What are the qualifications? The bill is worded loosely, allowing school districts to decide whether or not to impose certification or qualification standards for chaplains, other than passing a background check required of all school employees and volunteers, which would weed out people who are on the registered sex offender list. This has caused some controversy among families and educators who fear that districts who don't adopt their own qualifications for chaplains could introduce harm to their students. Advertisement Article continues below this ad MORE ON THE BILL: Texas Legislature approves bill allowing chaplains to act as school counselors Does this reduce the separation between church and state? Opponents of the bill say that there are no safeguards in place to prevent chaplains from proselytizing or evangelizing children. There are also concerns that students who are not of the same faith as a chaplain many feel excluded from the practice. Others argue because "chaplain" is originally a Christian term, that the bill will only pertain to chaplains of Christian faith in practice. Opponents also fear that the federally protected right of freedom to practice religion could be in jeopardy if religious figures try to push their faith upon unwilling students. Additionally, parents are concerned that the bill does not include a clause for parental consent for their child to speak with a chaplain. Supporters of the bill say that it is not intended to push Christianity into the school system or harm children, instead offer another avenue for students to receive support in the ongoing mental health crisis among youth in the U.S. They have promised not to evangelize children and say that spiritual health is an important part of mental health that is currently overlooked in the public school system. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Are all chaplains in support of the bill? No. Chaplains across the state have spoken out in support and against the bill. Over 100 chaplains signed a letter in August warning school districts about the potential dangers based on the loose wording of the bill, while other churches and pastors have traveled to school boards to express their support for the measure. How many districts have voted? Though districts have had from August to March 1 to vote on the resolution, a large number of Houston-area districts have yet to cast their vote and will do so this month. Districts that have voted have swayed around half and half between rejecting SB 763 outright, barring chaplains from volunteering and being hired, and welcoming chaplains as volunteers, but neglecting to take the step to hire them. Magnolia ISD, however, voted in February to permit hiring chaplains if needed in the future. For some districts who already have volunteer chaplains, in accordance with board policy surrounding volunteers, rejecting SB 763 and keeping a pre-existing policy, or accepting only the latter half of the resolution, will not change much. But for other districts who don't have volunteer programs already in place, it may open a door for that school district. No school districts were previously allowed to use taxpayer funding to employ a chaplain, so any district which votes for SB 763 in its entirety will see change on that front. The US House of Representatives was on edge on Tuesday night: would the homeland security secretary, Alejandro Mayorkas, be impeached? The Republicans mission looked likely to succeed, just barely, when a lone Democrat in a wheelchair and a hospital outfit emerged and put a stop to it. That man was Al Green not that Al Green, but a representative from Texas whod taken an Uber from the hospital to make his views known. In a line perfectly tailored to a scene the New York Times compared to a political thriller, Green told the paper: I came because it was personal. He had undergone emergency abdominal surgery days before and was back in his hospital bed when he spoke to the reporter, Kayla Guo. Related: Hed been through the fire: John Lewis, civil rights giant, remembered Its not the first time the US Capitol has played host to such a dramatic vote. Lawmakers have always had to balance their physical health with the demands of the job and on occasions from the passage of the Civil Rights Act to the near-death of Obamacare, the results have been momentous. Green was the latest politician to make such a memorable entrance. I had to cast this vote because this is a good, decent man whose reputation should not be besmirched, he said of Mayorkas, who Republicans, in a partisan effort, accused of purposely failing to enforce immigration laws. Signs suggest they may attempt the process again but for now, Greens last-minute rush to the chamber prevented the first impeachment of a cabinet member since 1876. A comparable moment in recent memory came in 2017. After he was diagnosed with brain cancer, John McCain returned to the Senate to weigh in on the future of the Affordable Care Act, AKA Obamacare, travelling across the country from his home in Arizona. And that wasnt the most surprising part: with Republicans only slightly outnumbering Democrats in the Senate, 52-48, there was little wiggle room in their effort to undo the health law. McCains return could have helped his party undermine legislation that members had been whining about for almost a decade and which McCain himself opposed. But his views on the skinny repeal were more complicated. On 25 July, he voted to begin debate on the bill but expressed his reservations about it, calling it a shell of a bill and condemning the process that created it. A few nights later, with a scar over his left eyebrow, he told reporters to wait for the show. When it came time to vote, he gave a thumbs down, casting a decisive vote that salvaged the healthcare reform he had campaigned against; gasps could be heard in the chamber. I was thanked for my vote by Democratic friends more profusely than I should have been for helping save Obamacare, he later wrote. That had not been my goal. Still, the healthcare act lived on. Another historic piece of US legislation, the Civil Rights Act, benefited from the heroics of a single lawmaker in poor health. In 1964, the law had passed the House and was facing a Senate vote but 18 senators were determined to filibuster it. Senator Richard Russell, a Georgia Democrat, said he and his allies would resist to the bitter end efforts to bring about social equality in the south. The chamber needed 67 votes to end the filibuster, and Senator Clair Engle, a California Democrat, was in the hospital with a brain tumor. On the day of the vote, as Colin Son recounted in the journal Neurosurgical Focus, an ambulance carried Engle to the chamber. In a wheelchair, he struggled to speak; instead, he pointed to his eye, mouthing the word aye. Some colleagues were said to be in tears. The vote counted, and the measure passed, allowing the bill to move forward. Engle returned to the chamber for the last time nine days later, on 19 June, when the Senate passed the Civil Rights Act. Other instances of rushed trips to the Capitol have had somewhat lower stakes. In 1985, for instance, Pete Wilson of California arrived in the Senate in a wheelchair and a bathrobe at 1.32am after getting his appendix out. According to a Times report, he asked colleagues: What was the question? and then voted to pass Ronald Reagans 1986 budget, prompting cheers. And across the ocean, Westminster has seen its share of politicians overcoming illness to cast votes: in 2018, for instance, the Labour MP Naz Shah discharged herself from a hospital and traveled four hours to London for a vote on a Brexit amendment. I was standing next to Laura Pidcock [the Labour MP for North West Durham], who is eight months pregnant and in agony, she told the Guardian at the time. Shah called the voting process archaic; similar arguments have been made about the US system. Last year, several House Democrats introduced a bill to allow voting by proxy, which was permitted early in the pandemic but shut down when Republicans took control of the House. Of course were going to try to get here no matter what, but we have medical emergencies, just like our constituents do, Representative Deborah Ross told CQ Roll Call. Then again, some perfectly healthy US lawmakers have done the opposite. On multiple occasions, senators have had to be essentially hauled on to the chamber floor. In 1988, the Senates sergeant-at-arms was ordered to arrest no-shows it was the only way to halt a filibuster. According to the chambers official history, he led a posse of six Capitol police officers in a post-midnight search of their offices. Senator Robert Packwood, an Oregon Republican, had jammed a chair against his door, but officers finally managed to get him to the chamber. By prearrangement, Senator Packwood collapsed into the arms of the officers who then transported him feet-first into the Chamber, the history says. On his feet again, he announced: I did not come fully voluntarily. Emily Maitlis was targeted by a stalker who harboured a three-decade fixation with her - PA/Jane Barlow Stalking needs to be renamed because people think its all dark streets and high heels, Emily Maitlis has claimed. The broadcaster, who was stalked for decades, said society should re-frame how such criminal behaviour is considered and instead see it as an obsessional illness. Maitlis was targeted by a stalker who harboured a three-decade fixation with her after the pair studied at Cambridge University at the same time. Edward Vines was jailed for eight years in 2022 after attempting to breach a restraining order for the 20th time by bombarding Maitlis with letters. He was first convicted of harassing her in 2002. Speaking on the Desperately Seeking Wisdom podcast, the 53-year-old former BBC Newsnight host said: I think the trouble with stalking is that in our heads it sounds sort of celebrity-related or glamorous sort of dark streets and high heels and most stalking has nothing to do with that. Its just to do with an obsessional illness in the head of the person and actually were getting much better at recognising mental health and all its myriad forms now. The News Agents presenter told the podcast that she is empathetic towards Vines, saying: Look, I think of [Edward Vines] as having kind of lost his whole life over this, quite frankly. Of course I feel empathetic to that. Breath-taking persistence When he was sentenced in 2022, Judge Mark Watson told Vines: In my judgment, you have shown breath-taking persistence and a complete disregard for the order and the proceedings you were awaiting. This is just the latest chapter in a much longer history. It seems that having left university and gone your separate ways, you then ruminated over what could have been. The existence of the order is meaningless to you. The only thing stopping you from contacting her is your continued imprisonment. It is an obsession from which you have been unable to escape. Maitlis also explained that she doesnt like the use of the word stalking in general, and said it was time to consider a different term that focuses on it being a medical illness. She said: I think weve got to find a different word for stalking, which is much more to do with his brain [not] working properly. I know that you dont just need a prison system. You need a psychiatric system. And at the moment, were really, really hard pushed to find enough mental health [resources] not least [for] all the many, many thousands of kids in this country now who are suffering and having a really hard time with their own mental health. Other celebrities who have been targeted by stalkers in recent years include actress Claire Foy and radio and TV presenter Jeremy Vine. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. EU High Representative on Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell has said that EU citizens need to be better informed about what it would mean to have a Kremlin-appointed "puppet" government in Ukraine, like in Belarus, if Russia takes over the country. Source: Borrell in an interview with EFE, reported by European Pravda Quote: "Russia will do anything. It will do anything. [Russian President Vladimir] Putin has no intention of giving up. His political survival depends on it." Details: Borrell said that Putin "is going to go all the way and does not mind sacrificing his army and his people" because "he is suffering huge material and human losses and has not made any significant territorial advance." "Do you think that Putin, when he started the war, could imagine for a moment that in two years he would be where he is? No, he thought his army was very powerful. And it is not. He thought that Ukraine was very weak, and that it would collapse. But it didn't. He thought that the unity of Europeans would collapse. He thought that transatlantic unity would collapse. None of this happened," Borrell said. Being aware that "there are people who do not share the view that Ukraine needs help and that it would be better for Ukraine to surrender as soon as possible" because "that way we will get rid of the problems," Borrell asked: "Do you think if Russia installs a puppet regime in Ukraine, like they have in Belarus, and Russian troops are on the Polish border, will we avoid problems or will we have even bigger problems? " Therefore, he believes that "we must continue to insist on helping the people who are defending themselves against a powerful neighbour who wants to impose their dominance by force" and who has "nostalgia for the old Soviet or Tsarist empire." Borrell stated that Putin was "a neighbour who does not know where its borders end and begin." With European elections just around the corner, Borrell believes there is an educational task to be done to explain why the EU is helping Ukraine and what the consequences of Ukraines defeat would be. The ultimate defeat of Ukraine would mean that "the Russian army would be on the border of Europe", he stressed. "It means that Putin might think that if he won once, why not win his neighbour a second time? That would mean that Russia would control 35% of all the world's wheat markets, for example. There are things that people need to be aware of if we want to know why we do what we do," Borrell said. Read Borrells speech in the Ukrainian parliament: Ukraine's victory "whatever it takes," dialogue with opposition, and Kyiv's two battles. Speech by EU's top diplomat Background: The EU top diplomat was on a two-day visit to Kyiv this week, where he spoke about the need for political unity, the implementation of reforms and the need for democratic mechanisms to work effectively. On 7 February, Borrell had to spend the morning in a shelter because of a large-scale Russian missile attack. Support UP or become our patron! EU Foreign Affairs official Josep Borrell believes that Europeam must better understand the risks of having a Belarus-like "puppet" government in Ukraine and a Russian army on EU borders, he stated in an interview with EFE on Feb. 9. "Russia will do anything, Borrell said. Vladimir Putin has no intention of giving up. His political survival is at stake." Read also: EU pledges decision by March on millions of dollars of seized Russian wealth for Ukraine He asserted that Putin clearly does not mind sacrificing his army and people, as he is already suffering huge material and human losses and has not achieved any significant territorial success. According to the European diplomat, Putin is a neighbor who "does not know where his borders end and where they begin." Read also: Borrell: EU to deliver over one million artillery shells by years end Responding to those who do not support Ukraine aid, he asked if a Russian puppet regime in Ukraine and Russian troops will be at the Polish border would make problems better or worse. Borrell therefore stated that the West must continue to insist on helping those who are defending themselves against a powerful neighbor that wishes to "impose its dominance by force" and is "nostalgic for the old Soviet or Tsarist empire." Borrell arrived in Kyiv on Feb. 6. This is his fourth visit to Ukraine during the full-scale war. According to him, the visit is aimed at discussing the EU's unwavering support in the military and financial spheres, as well as the support for a new Ukrainian fund, the 50 billion euro Ukraine Facility fund. Earlier, Bild, citing its own sources in the intelligence of a European country, reported that Russia may try to attack Europe in late 2024 or early 2025, when the United States will be "without a leader" and will be able to save European states only after some delay. Admiral Rob Bauer, Chairman of NATO's Military Committee, stated that civilians in the West should prepare for "total war" with Russia. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said that Europe is again "facing a military threat that has not been seen for 30 years" and warned of a possible Russian attack in five to eight years. 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 European Union may present a framework for negotiations with Ukraine on EU membership in the coming weeks, announced European Commission spokeswoman, Ana Pisonero, at a briefing on Feb. 9. The conditions for Ukraine's EU membership have not changed, Pisonero said. "There are no shortcuts in the enlargement process. This is a merit-based process. You can see very clearly in the reports what Ukraine has done in order to get here." Read also: Constitutional referendum will cement irreversibility of Moldova's EU goals President Sandu Ukraine's progress has been impressive" and, despite the challenges of war, Ukrainians managed to "continue to deliver and to keep their Parliament going and to keep on addressing the reforms that they had to address," Pisonero said. "We all know what Ukraine is facing. While she couldn't provide a specific timeframe, Pisonero said that the process is advancing in terms of drafting the negotiations framework. Read also: British envoy downplays hopes for Ukraine NATO action at summit, citing ongoing conflict with Russia There are the indications that we should be able to present it to the Member States in the coming weeks," she said. At a summit on Dec. 14, during which 26 EU member states approved starting Ukraines EU accession negotiations, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban left the hall during the vote. Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration Olha Stefanishyna said that the European Council's decision to start negotiations with Ukraine on EU accession does not contain any additional conditions. The Brussels-launched screening process marks an important stage in Ukraine's preparation for EU accession talks, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Jan. 25. European Council President, Charles Michel, earlier said that Ukraine could join the EU in 2030. 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 European Commission has stated that the European Union's support for Ukraine will remain unchanged after the resignation of Valerii Zaluzhnyi, Commander-in-Chief of Ukraine's Armed Forces. Source: Nabila Massrali, EU Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, on Friday in Brussels; European Pravda Details: Massrali called the replacement of the commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces an internal decision of Ukraine, which is the president's prerogative. She reiterated Brussels' firm support for Kyiv. "The European Union's support for Ukraine is unwavering. We have pledged to support Ukraine for as long as necessary and provide everything that is needed, regardless of who heads the Armed Forces of Ukraine," Massrali said. Background: US Assistant Secretary of Defene Celeste Wallander, commenting on the changes in Ukraines military leadership, confirmed the States' willingness to cooperate with the new commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The White House made a similar statement. Support UP or become our patron! The European Union is set to sanction around 55 companies and over 60 individuals, as part of its 13th sanctions package against Russia, Bloomberg reported on Feb. 8. Shipping companies involved in moving North Korean ammunition to Russia are among the entities targeted by the sanctions. This effort includes firms and individuals that produce weapons and supply critical technologies and electronics for Russian defense companies' arms manufacturing. Read also: EU drafts mini-sanctions against Russia for symbolic war anniversary, no major items included On Feb. 3, the European Commission held informal talks with EU member states to discuss the 13th package's sanctions against Russia. These sanctions are expected to concentrate on shutting down loopholes for bypassing existing restrictions on trade with Moscow. Read also: As Western sanctions begin to bite, plane crashes in Russia more than doubled in 2023 RFE/RL journalist Rikard Jozwiak commented on Feb. 4 that the upcoming EU sanctions package might be the weakest so far. 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 Madison High School students hanging outside the campus following a walkout to protest over the new campus cellphone policy on Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024 in Houston. Students said they were not able to get back inside after the walkout. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles said Thursday evening that students at Madison High School will be suspended if they continue to walk out of school. Madison students marched out by the hundreds on Thursday morning in protest of a new policy that requires all students to turn their cellphones in to administrators for the entirety of the day, which some students said was only the last straw on a host of upsetting changes to the campus. It was the third time in less than a week that students walked out of Madison en masse. Their first protest last Friday prompted a lockdown of the south Houston high school. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Miles said Thursday that the schools administration would handle discipline and that students would be suspended if the walkouts continued. He said some Madison students have already been suspended. MORE FROM MADISON: Video emerges of HISDs Madison High School principal involved in altercation with students Walking out is dangerous for kids, and adults outside the system should not be encouraging that, Miles said. Its not good for kids to be outside the school, its not safe, and encouraging that kind of behavior is irresponsible for adults, especially adults who are not in the school. The state-appointed superintendent also defended the cellphone policy in place at Madison, which is stricter than the rest of HISDs schools, where students are generally required to keep their cellphones tucked away in their backpack for the entire day. Principal Edgar Contreras told Madison families he implemented the policy in an attempt to curb fighting on campus, which had grown out of control in recent weeks. Were going to support the principal with that. Were going to stand by this policy, Miles said, noting that there was a national movement to stop cellphone use in schools. Advertisement Article continues below this ad We know that having cellphones in schools is problematic on a number of fronts, especially the bullying that might happen during the school day, meeting to sell drugs, all kinds of things happening on a cellphone. So were not going to have cellphones during the day in our schools, he said. He also stood by Contreras in light of a video circulating on social media that appeared to show the principal involved in an altercation with students. Grainy footage shows Contreras holding one student in what appears to be a headlock, before another student jumps off a table and beats him over the head. Miles said HISD Police Chief Shamara Garner and South Division Superintendent Imelda De La Guardia had both reviewed the schools own security footage of the incident, in which you can see clearly that nothing inappropriate was done by the principal. HISD policy allows employees to physically restrain a student if they believe its necessary to protect someone, including themselves, from physical injury. THE REPORT CARD: Subscribe to the Houston Chronicles weekly newsletter recapping HISD news When senior national security officials gathered in the White House Situation Room in December to prepare for the 2024 election, they faced a pair of stark, simulated scenarios that tested the limits of any federal response to election-related chaos, four people familiar with the meeting told CNN. What if Chinese operatives created a fake AI-generated video showing a Senate candidate destroying ballots? And how should federal agencies respond if violence erupts at polling stations on Election Day? For nearly an hour, the No. 2 officials at the FBI, CIA and departments of Homeland Security and Justice wrestled with how to respond to the deepfake video, including whether and how to notify the public about the activity if they werent sure that China was behind it, the sources told CNN. When it comes to a coordinated federal response to things like rampant disinformation, deepfakes and the harassment of election officials, Were all fking tied up in knots, said one US official familiar with the election security drill. The previously unreported meeting was the first such drill the Biden White House has held in more than three years in office. It highlights the wrenching questions confronting the administration as it games out potential threats to the 2024 election and the limits of federal power to respond to them. People vote on Election Day at the Jeffersonville Masonic Lodge in Jeffersonville, Ohio, on November 7, 2023. - Carolyn Kaster/AP/File US national security officials have to weigh whether publicly calling attention to disinformation might inadvertently amplify the very message theyre trying to bat down. And they can act more swiftly to speak out publicly if they know that a foreign actor is behind an information operation targeting the election. If theres a chance an American citizen is involved, US officials are more reluctant to counter it publicly out of fear of giving the impression that they are influencing the election or restricting speech. In both scenarios, federal officials favored a muted public response, largely choosing to let state and local governments take the lead. That points to a deep-seated dilemma they face: How does the federal government protect voters from election threats when many of those voters dont trust the federal government in the first place? State and local officials run elections and are more trusted voices in their communities, but how can federal officials act decisively to support them? The participants opted for state election officials, and not the federal government, to lead any public messaging to counter disinformation spread by the fake video in their jurisdictions, two of the sources said. Officials also discussed options for notifying Congress. No one at the table raised their hand offering to be the lead federal agency to tell the public about the deepfake. As for violence at the polls, the federal officials decided not to dispatch federal agents to support local police because they did not have the jurisdiction to do so. Biden walks with Xi Jinping at the Filoli estate in Woodside, California, in November 2023. - Kevin Lamarque/Reuters/File Were in uncharted territory right now The election security drill came the month after Chinese leader Xi Jinping assured President Joe Biden in a face-to-face meeting that China would not interfere in the 2024 US election, signaling the administration was still preparing for that potential. The role of deepfakes in election security has become all the more critical in light of the recent AI-made robocall ahead of the New Hampshire primary that mimicked Bidens voice, another US official familiar with the meeting told CNN. Were in uncharted territory right now, said the first official familiar with the meeting, citing the ease with which someone can use AI to make fake audio and video to target voters and the challenges US agencies have in quickly responding. Its the speed and the volume at which our adversaries can flood the information environment. The Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a statement to CNN last week that Chinas position is to always adhere to the principle of non-interference in other countries internal affairs. Officials from multiple federal agencies last week briefed the Senate Intelligence Committee on their election security preparation for 2024, including the White House drill in December, three sources familiar with the briefing told CNN. There were pointed, unanswered questions about how the federal government will handle AI-generated fakes in the election, two sources said. And senators were left wondering how prepared the federal government truly is to respond to these kinds of threats. A spokesperson for Senate Intelligence Committee declined to comment on the briefing. The election is already upon us and Im going to keep pressing to make sure were using all available resources and authorities to deter, detect, disrupt, and expose foreign efforts to meddle in our elections, Sen. Mark Warner, the Virginia Democrat who chairs the committee, said in a statement to CNN. A senior administration official stressed that election security is a top priority in a statement to CNN. We remain concerned about a range of actors seeking to interfere in the electoral process and undermine confidence in our election infrastructure. Generative AI provides these actors a way to supercharge their malign efforts, the official said. Thats why there is a whole-of-government effort to ensure the integrity and security of the 2024 Federal elections. Sen. Mark Warner in November 2023. - Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images/File Policies at the state level are also still a work in progress. CNN recently asked election officials in all 50 states about efforts to counter deepfakes. Out of 33 that responded, most described existing programs in their states to respond to general misinformation or cyber threats. Less than half of those states, however, referenced specific trainings, policies or programs crafted to respond to election-related deepfakes. In a recent interview with CNN, Francisco Aguilar, the secretary of state in Nevada, the states top election official, said he is still working out how to deal with the threat of AI-generated fakes in elections and how federal agencies might be able to help him. You look at our budget at the state of Nevada and you see what constraints we have, Aguilar said. I dont think weve been through a full election cycle where its truly existed. So we are kind of in pioneering times right now. Balancing vigilance with caution After a relatively quiet midterm in 2022, federal officials tasked with election security are preparing for a range of potential threats, and are expecting hackers from Russia, China and Iran to be active, while viral conspiracy theorists are poised to pounce on any voting glitch to falsely cry fraud. Former President Donald Trumps lies about voter fraud continue to resonate with large chunks of the country, with a majority of Republicans and Republican-leaners saying Bidens 2020 win was not legitimate, according to a CNN poll in July. After getting caught flatfooted by a Russian hack-and-leak campaign in the 2016 election and by the pro-Trump rioters who stormed the Capitol after the 2020 election, US officials focused on securing the election are trying to balance the need to stay vigilant with being cautious about when to speak out about these threats without it backfiring. Multiple former senior US national security officials involved in protecting elections told CNN that, in a post-2016 world, the disclosure of intelligence may be construed as political. Its a trick box, said Adam Hickey, who worked on election security issues for the Justice Departments National Security Division. Unless the proof that its a fake is virtually undisputable, [US officials] will be accused of weighing in on the election itself, and none of them want that. But if US officials can expose the role of a foreign government in an interference campaign, Hickey said, voters can weigh the message in light of its source, without speculating about who the foreign government favors or why. Still scarred by 2016 Russian interference Some in the federal government are still scarred by how slow the national security establishment was to warn the public about Russian interference in 2016. It was many months after the fact that states learned that Russian hackers had scanned their computer systems. But national security officials are also keen to avoid announcing a major new development on the eve of an election without giving the public adequate information to act on it. During the White House drill, the senior federal officials were testing out a policy that was established after 2016 for notifying the public and Congress about foreign election interference. The policy stipulates that partisan politics shall not play a role in the decision to tell the public about foreign interference activities. It also asks officials to consider whether going public will render the foreign meddling less effective rather than inadvertently amplifying it. The Justice Department, FBI and CIA declined to comment on the election security drill. The Department of Homeland Security referred questions to the National Security Council. Cait Conley, a US Army combat veteran who joined DHSs Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency last year to bolster its election security work, declined to discuss the White House meeting but said her agency did over two-dozen security drills with state and local officials last year. [W]e prioritize tabletop exercises that integrate the range of cyber, physical, and operational threats election officials may encounter, Conley said in a statement to CNN. Many of those threats are derived from the tactics and techniques of our foreign adversaries from Chinese network penetration operations to Russian and Iranian foreign influence operations. CNNs Evan Perez, Natasha Bertrand, Donie OSullivan and Katie Bo Lillis contributed to this report. This story has been updated with additional information. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com By Michael Martina WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Under pressure from Congress, U.S. utility company Duke Energy plans to decommission energy-storage batteries produced by Chinese battery maker CATL at one of the nation's largest Marine Corps bases and will phase out CATL products at its civilian projects, the company confirmed to Reuters. The decision, which has not been previously reported, comes as top U.S. officials warn that hackers linked to the Chinese government are targeting network-linked critical U.S. infrastructure, including the power grid. Reuters reported in December that Duke Energy had temporarily disconnected industrial-scale CATL storage batteries from a project on Marine Corps base Camp Lejeune after lawmakers and experts raised concerns about the battery supplier's close links to China's ruling Communist Party. The permanent shutdown of the batteries, less than a year after a ribbon cutting that involved U.S. military brass, is the latest example of how strategic competition between the United States and China is affecting U.S. and Chinese businesses - sometimes in dramatic ways. Duke Energy's change of course on the batteries could have supply chain implications for the utility and have a chilling effect on an energy storage market dominated by Chinese manufacturers. "In partnership with policymakers and the Department of the Navy, we have made the decision to decommission the CATL battery energy storage system at Camp Lejeune and replace it with a domestic or allied nation supplier," Duke Energy said in a statement in response to Reuters questions. "By 2027, we are voluntarily moving away from specifying CATL battery energy storage technologies," the statement said, adding that the company supported a "robust American supply chain." Duke Energy had sought to assuage concerns in Congress over possible network vulnerabilities arising from the batteries, sending at least five executives, including its chief security and information officer to meet with staff of the House of Representatives' select committee on China in the first week of January, according to two sources familiar with the discussions. While the Duke Energy executives told the staff that they were confident in the security of the batteries, they also expressed a desire to address congressional concerns, the sources said. The executives disclosed in the meeting that the company had been considering CATL batteries for about two dozen other projects. Duke Energy did not answer questions about how those projects would be affected by the decision to cut CATL from its supply chain. It did not specify what type of batteries it would use at the Camp Lejeune facility going forward. One person familiar with the Camp Lejeune project said Duke Energy did not have direct contracts with CATL and bought the batteries through third party providers. Mike Gallagher, the Republican chairman of the bipartisan select committee, and Senator Marco Rubio said in a statement to Reuters that they were pleased Duke Energy had moved to decommission the CATL batteries at Camp Lejeune. "Additionally, in our most recent meeting with company leadership, Duke committed to entirely phasing out CATL products from its supply chain," the lawmakers said. 'SEVERELY LIMIT SUPPLY' CATL, a global leader in energy storage, did not respond immediately to Reuters request for comment. After Duke Energy first disconnected the Camp Lejeune site, the Chinese company said its batteries had passed rigorous U.S. safety and security reviews. The company's battery energy storage systems (BESS) are slated to be installed at commercial projects around the country, including in Texas and near Las Vegas. Planned and operational U.S. utility-scale battery capacity reached around 16 GW at the end of 2023 and could nearly double to over 30 GW by the end of 2024, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Any broad effort to avoid Chinese batteries could put utility operators in a severe supply pinch. "Fully avoiding Chinese batteries would severely limit supply, to the point of not being able to deploy nearly enough stationary storage systems and EVs to meet demand and decarbonization goals," said Vanessa Witte, Wood Mackenzie senior research analyst for U.S. energy storage. Many in the industry say that Chinese batteries cells themselves do not present serious security concerns. But communications systems on the batteries could be vulnerable to hacking, security experts say, allowing a potential adversary to trigger repeated surges and cuts in current to the electricity grid, causing cascading failure. Over the last year, lawmakers have stepped up pressure to wean the U.S. away from Chinese batteries. A measure in this year's annual defense spending bill bans the Defense Department from procuring batteries produced by CATL and several other top Chinese manufacturers starting in 2027. (Reporting by Michael Martina; Editing by Don Durfee and Suzanne Goldenberg) Andrea Leinfelder is the space reporter for the Houston Chronicle. She can be reached at andrea.leinfelder@houstonchronicle.com. Andrea writes about NASA and the commercial space sector, where her coverage spans human spaceflight, robotic exploration and operations in low-Earth orbit. She also follows Elon Musk's Texas footprint. Originally from Florida, Andrea graduated from the University of Florida in 2012 and has worked for the Houston Chronicle since 2014. She previously wrote for The News-Press in Fort Myers, Fla. She enjoys traveling, eating her way across Texas and chasing her 1-year-old son and 5-year-old dog. WASHINGTON President Joe Biden will not face criminal charges for his handling of classified documents. But he is not coming away from Robert Hurs special counsel investigation unscathed. Hurs report Thursday portrayed Biden as an elderly man with "diminished capacities," including memory loss, handing his critics fresh evidence to argue the 81-year-old president isn't up to serving a second term. Details in the Department of Justice special counsel report pose such enormous problems politically for Biden that he delivered a previously unannounced primetime address, rejecting concerns about his mental fitness and insisting his memory is fine. "How in the hell dare he raise that?" a visibly angry Biden said, singling out claims that he could not remember "even within several years" when his son Beau Biden died of brain cancer. "I don't need anybody to remind me when he passed away," Biden said as he clenched his teeth. Bidens age was already a concern for many Americans ahead of the 2024 election, but the special counsel's report thrust perhaps his biggest liability to the center of the campaign. Hurs report also said Biden, during his interview, could not remember when his term as vice president started and ended. His memory appeared hazy when describing the Afghanistan debate that was once so important to him, the report said. Among other things, he mistakenly said he had a real difference of opinion with General Karl Eikenberry, when, in fact, Eikenberry was an ally whom Mr. Biden cited approvingly in his Thanksgiving memo to President Obama. President Joe Biden speaks in the Diplomatic Reception Room of the White House on Tuesday in Washington. White House counsel slams inclusion of memory observations Republicans seized on the report immediately. A man too incapable of being held accountable for mishandling classified information is certainly unfit for the Oval Office," House Speaker Mike Johnson said in a joint statement with other House Republican leaders. Other critics, including Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., and Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., called for the removal of Biden from office through the 25th Amendment of the Constitution. Bidens aides have sought to downplay the presidents routine gaffes including at a press briefing just before the special counsel report was released. The president has made a habit of making self-deprecating jokes about his age at campaign events as a way of confronting the issue in a lighthearted manner and on his own terms. However, the special counsel report laid bare, in an official document, the problematic nature of Bidens forgetfulness in an election year. Bidens memory was already under scrutiny following three occasions this week in which he mistakenly referred to deceased foreign leaders when describing successors. "We have also considered that, at trial, Mr. Biden would likely present himself to a jury, as he did during our interview of him, as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory," Hur's report says. Biden's attorneys Richard Sauber and Bob Bauer pushed back strongly at Hur for including the allegations of memory loss, calling it neither "accurate or appropriate" in a letter to the special counsel. "The report uses highly prejudicial language to describe a commonplace occurrence among witnesses: a lack of recall of years-old events," their letter reads. Biden's allies jumped on the assertions about memory loss as politically motivated and inappropriate observations. Hur served as the principal associate deputy attorney general at Justice at the beginning of former President Donald Trumps term in office. Trump later appointed him U.S. attorney for the District of Maryland. Jim Messina, former President Barack Obamas campaign manager, said on social media that Hur isn't a dummy and encouraged Democrats not to take the bait by making hay of the report. Hur, a lifelong Republican and creature of D.C., didn't have a case against Biden, but he knew exactly how his swipes could hurt Biden politically, he said. U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland Robert Hur delivers remarks during Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein's farewell ceremony at the Robert F. Kennedy Main Justice Building May 9, 2019 in Washington, DC. Special counsel report comes amid foreign leader mix-ups Biden first addressed the report Thursday afternoon as he delivered remarks to House Democrats at a retreat in Leesburg, Virginia. He emphasized that the report which he noted came from a "Republican counsel" cleared him of any wrongdoing and contrasted the difference between his case and that of Trump, who did not cooperate with the Justice Department and was charged with crimes. Shortly before the report's release, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre had made light of Bidens memory lapses during a briefing. She argued that everyone gets confused on occasion, batting back suggestions that the aging president is mentally deteriorating. She came prepared with examples of Republicans who had forgotten or mixed up names to make her point. Many people elected officials many people, you know, they can misspeak sometimes, Jean-Pierre said. She was responding to questions about Biden confusing foreign leaders in a story he regularly tells at fundraisers. The first time, Biden was at a Las Vegas campaign event. He mixed up current French President Emmanuel Macron with deceased former French leader Francois Mitterrand. Biden also said that Mitterand was from Germany before correcting himself. And I sat down and I said, America is back. And Mitterrand, from Germany I mean, from France looked at me and said said, You know, what why how long you back for? Biden said. At campaign fundraisers on Wednesday, he twice mixed up deceased German chancellor Helmut Kohl with Angela Merkel, a former German chancellor who retired in 2021, as he told the story again. Making matters worse, as a furious Biden swatted down questions from reporters during a last-minute news conference on Thursday evening, he accidentally called Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi the president of Mexico. Biden was responding to a question about the war between Israel and Hamas and active hostage negotiations the U.S. is involved in. "As you know, initially, the president of Mexico, el-Sissi, did not want to open up the gate to allow humanitarian material to get in. I talked to him. I convinced him to open the gate," Biden said. 2024 presidential hopeful Donald Trump speaks at a Commit to Caucus Rally in Las Vegas on Jan. 27. Biden loyalists responded to the special counsel report by pointing to Trump's habitual misspeaks. Last month he confused rival Republican candidate Nikki Haley with former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi. He inaccurately claimed that Haley, 52, was in charge of the U.S. Capitols security during the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection. He meant the jab for Pelosi. Haley has been beating the drum on the campaign trail that Biden and Trump, 77, are too old to get the job done and America needs a younger leader. She has pushed for mental competency tests for politicians over the age of 75. Haley has pointed to Trumps gaffe involving Pelosi and the Biden special counsel report to underscore her position. Joe Biden cant remember major events in his life, like when he was vice president or when his son died, Haley said on Thursday. That is sad, but it will be even sadder if we have a person in the White House who is not mentally up to the most important job in the world." Francesca Chambers and Joey Garrison cover the White House for USA TODAY. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Special counsel investigation a political disaster for President Biden By Vivian Sequera and Mayela Armas CARACAS (Reuters) - Venezuelan opposition presidential candidate Maria Corina Machado on Friday said she hoped the U.S. Treasury Department would extend its protection of Houston-based refiner Citgo Petroleum, saying that would benefit creditors and the U.S. government. Machado, who spoke to Reuters in an interview, notched a resounding primary win in October. The supreme court last month upheld a decision by the controller general which bans her from holding public office and therefore from registering for elections scheduled for the second half of 2024. A U.S. court has so far approved claims by 18 Venezuela-linked creditors, including ConocoPhillips, Rusoro Mining and Koch Industries, to get proceeds from a coming auction of shares in the parent of Citgo. Protection of the company is set to expire April 16. The $21.3 billion in claims stem from Venezuela's expropriations and debt defaults since it nationalized energy and mining companies more than a decade ago. Citgo became enmeshed in the case when the U.S. court found its parent PDV Holding - itself a subsidiary of Venezuela's state-owned energy giant PDVSA - liable for the South American nation's debts in an extraordinary ruling. Asked if she hoped the U.S. would extend the protection, Machado said yes. "That is what we hope and I think it would be what benefits all parties, not just Venezuela, it would benefit creditors and benefit also the government of the United States," she said. Washington and Venezuela's political opposition have long wanted Citgo to anchor the country's economic future under a democratically elected government. But so far President Nicolas Maduro has remained in power despite a disputed 2018 re-election the U.S. and others say was fraudulent. The value of the company could grow significantly if there is "a democratic transition," Machado said, and there could be a reasonable and transparent debt restructuring. The Citgo auction, where ConocoPhillips has emerged as a surprise bidder, could become the biggest event of its kind ever held. Machado, a 56-year-old industrial engineer, has repeatedly rejected the possibility of a substitute, saying her landslide victory in the primary gives her a mandate and that her ban from running this year is contrived. An election where she does not participate will not be recognized internationally, Machado said. "Today the whole world knows that what is being done is unconstitutional," she added, though she would not be drawn on any steps she plans to take to fight the ban. The United States has said Maduro, who is expected to run for re-election, should not be allowed to choose his opponent. The supreme court's ruling said Machado supported U.S. sanctions and a U.S.-backed opposition interim government, which the Maduro government blames for the loss of Venezuelan foreign assets like Citgo. The ruling prompted the U.S. to begin reinstating sanctions on Venezuela, with the Biden administration expected to allow a roll-back of restrictions on the oil industry to expire in April. (Reporting by Vivian Sequera and Mayela Armas; Writing by Julia Symmes Cobb, editing by David Ljunggren) U.S.-based oil giant ExxonMobil recently filed a lawsuit to block a vote on a climate resolution brought by green activist investor group Follow This. What happened? Dutch green activist group Follow This put forward a motion to ExxonMobil shareholders that called for the oil company to accelerate attempts to cut greenhouse gas emissions. In response, ExxonMobil filed a lawsuit, saying that the proposal violates Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) investor petition rules. The company argued that the motion breaks SEC rules designed to prevent shareholders from micromanaging business decisions through proposals, according to the Guardian. With this remarkable step, ExxonMobil clearly wants to prevent shareholders using their rights, Mark van Baal of Follow This said, per the Guardian. Apparently, the board fears shareholders will vote in favor of emissions reductions targets. We dont know why ExxonMobil took this remarkable step. Why is this lawsuit important? Coal, oil, and gas account for 75% of planet-warming gases, per the United Nations. According to Follow This, big oil companies can make or break the Paris Climate Agreement. This 2015 agreement set a 1.5 degree Celcius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) benchmark for warming if we pass that, scientists predict disastrous consequences like the melting of Antarctic ice sheets, which will contribute to sea level rise, cause the ocean to become more acidic, and negatively impact crops in some parts of the world. And while big companies like ExxonMobil say theyre cleaning up operations in 2022, Exxon announced plans to reach net zero in its operations by 2050 one analysis by nonprofit InfluenceMap found that many of these companies dont have practical plans to achieve their goals. A number of them are also lobbying against policies that align with their green ambitions, according to the report. In fact, the group calls out ExxonMobil as a significant risk of net zero greenwash because of its policy engagement. Whats being done to keep oil companies accountable? This is not the first time Follow This has put forth similar resolutions before an oil companys shareholders. The green group introduced a climate resolution before Shell investors at their 2023 annual shareholder meeting. Ultimately, Shells shareholders rejected the resolution with only 20.2% in support, but now the oil company is facing a shareholder rebellion spurred by the resolution. You too can become a green shareholder for ExxonMobil, Shell, BP, Chevron, or Total Energies through Follow This. According to the organizations website, When you buy a share through Follow This, you not only get to vote in favor of our climate resolutions, but you also enable us to be listened to by the press and, more importantly, by big institutional investors with millions of votes at their disposal. You can also do your part by getting involved in climate issues. One way to do this is voting for pro-climate candidates. You can also help enact change by talking to your friends and family about climate issues and participating in local climate action. Join our free newsletter for cool news and actionable info that makes it easy to help yourself while helping the planet. Claim: U.S. President Joe Biden referred to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi as the president of Mexico during remarks about the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. Rating: Rating: Correct Attribution On Feb. 8, 2024, during a surprise news conference, U.S. President Joe Biden appeared to mix up the world leaders of Egypt and Mexico. In the same briefing, Biden fired back against a special counsel report that said he struggled to recall key life events and mishandled classified files. Even as he defended himself and said his memory was fine, Biden appeared to experience some confusion, as seen in numerous posts and clips from the news conference shared on X. One post said: While Vladimir Putin spoke to Tucker Carlson for two hours on Russian history, the war in Ukraine and major geopolitical developments, Joe Biden confused the president of Egypt with the president of Mexico. While Vladimir Putin spoke to Tucker Carlson for two hours on Russian history, the war in Ukraine and major geopolitical developments, Joe Biden confused the president of Egypt with the president of Mexico..... #TuckerPutin#Putin#TuckerCarlson#TuckerPutinInterview pic.twitter.com/DK031SZzRX Richard (@ricwe123) February 9, 2024 Biden did indeed confuse the names of the leaders of Egypt and Mexico, based on video evidence from the news conference as well as reliable news reports. We reached out to the White House to get more information. During his speech, while responding to a question about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Biden took credit for persuading Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to open the border between Gaza and Egypt to allow humanitarian aid to enter. He said: I think as you know initially, the president of Mexico, Sisi, did not want to open up the gate to allow humanitarian material to get in. I talked to him. I convinced him to open the gate. The exact comments can be heard around the 9:34 minute mark in this video of the news conference from the official White House official YouTube account: The president of Mexico is Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. As of this writing, the White House has not yet uploaded the official transcript of Biden's Feb. 8, 2024, remarks onto its website. We reached out to the press office to learn more about when or if it would be available. The White House did release Bidens official statement on the special counsels findings, in which he said: The Special Counsel released today its findings about its look into my handling of classified documents. I was pleased to see they reached the conclusion I believed all along they would reach that there would be no charges brought in this case and the matter is now closed. This was an exhaustive investigation going back more than 40 years, even into the 1970s when I was a young Senator. I cooperated completely, threw up no roadblocks, and sought no delays. In fact, I was so determined to give the Special Counsel what they needed that I went forward with five hours of in-person interviews over two days on October 8th and 9th of last year, even though Israel had just been attacked on October 7th and I was in the middle of handling an international crisis. I just believed thats what I owed the American people so they could know no charges would be brought and the matter closed. This was not the first time Biden confused the names and positions of world leaders. Just a few days before the flub about El-Sisi, Biden said he spoke in 2021 with former French President Francois Mitterrand, who died in 1996. He apparently meant to refer to the current French president, Emmanuel Macron. In January 2024, Biden mistakenly called former U.S. President Donald Trump the "sitting president." With the 2024 U.S. presidential election looming, Bidens mental acuity was under increasing scrutiny. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre refused to engage with a question from Fox News on the subject after Bidens gaffe about Mitterrand. Biden has also referred to himself as a gaffe machine over the years, and we have numerous fact checks featuring such gaffes. Sources: "02/08/24: President Biden Delivers Remarks." The White House, 8 Feb. 2024. www.youtube.com, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hgmBaKNlN1s. Accessed 9 Feb. 2024. Doherty , Erin. My Memory Is Fine: Angry Biden Fires Back after Special Counsel Report. Axios, 9 Feb. 2024, https://www.axios.com/2024/02/09/biden-special-counsel-report-memory-robert-hur. Accessed 9 Feb. 2024. Emery, David. Did Biden Say We Choose Truth Over Facts? Snopes, 16 Jan. 2023, https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/biden-we-choose-truth-over-facts/. Accessed 9 Feb. 2024. Goldmacher, Shane, et al. Eight Words and a Verbal Slip Put Bidens Age Back at the Center of 2024. The New York Times, 9 Feb. 2024. NYTimes.com, https://www.nytimes.com/2024/02/09/us/politics/biden-memory-age-democrats.html. Accessed 9 Feb. 2024. Liles, Jordan. Biden Called Trump the Sitting President During January 2024 Speech? Snopes, 29 Jan. 2024, https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/biden-calls-trump-sitting-president/. Accessed 9 Feb. 2024. Liles, Jordan. Did Biden Say He Met with Dead French President Francois Mitterrand? Snopes, 7 Feb. 2024, https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/biden-french-president/. Accessed 9 Feb. 2024. Liles, Jordan. Did Karine Jean-Pierre Dodge Fox News Reporters Question About Bidens Mental Health? Snopes, 7 Feb. 2024, https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/jean-pierre-doocy-dodge/. Accessed 9 Feb. 2024. "My Memory Is Fine - Biden Hits Back at Special Counsel." BBC, 9 Feb. 2024. www.bbc.com, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-68244352. Accessed 9 Feb. 2024. Statement from President Joe Biden. The White House, 8 Feb. 2024, https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/02/08/statement-from-president-joe-biden-5/. President Joe Biden gave a press conference Thursday night after the release of a report from special counsel Robert Hur, who announced that Biden would not face charges over his handling of classified information from prior to his presidency. Biden was combative, forcefully rejecting Hurs claims that he has a poor memory. But the president was also repeatedly inaccurate, making three claims that were clearly contradicted by Hurs report. Here is a fact check. Where the classified material was stored Biden sought to contrast his handling of classified material with that of former President Donald Trump, who faces felony charges for willfully retaining classified documents. (Hur agreed that there were major distinctions between the two cases.) But while Biden correctly noted that the documents were in a private home that is very different from the Mar-a-Lago social club where Trump lives, Biden embellished his argument with a false claim. Biden said: All the stuff that was in my home was in filing cabinets that were either locked or able to be locked. Facts First: Bidens claim is not true. The special counsels report says that while some of the classified documents were found in cabinet drawers in Bidens Delaware home, other classified documents, about Afghanistan, were found in an unsealed and badly damaged box sitting in his garage alongside an assortment of other items the special counsel described as household detritus. The report includes a photo of the box. Hur wrote that investigators looked into the possibility that the Afghanistan-related documents found in the box were previously stored in a filing cabinet when Biden lived in a rented home in Virginia before moving out in 2019. Hur called that line of inquiry inconclusive. Regardless, Bidens Thursday claim that all of the documents in his home were in locked or lockable filing cabinets is not true of his current home. According to the special counsel, even classified documents Biden was storing elsewhere in his home were insufficiently secure. Hur wrote that Biden notebooks containing classified information from his vice presidency were found by investigators in unlocked drawers in the office and basement den of the home. Hur wrote that Biden should have known that as a private citizen as of 2017, he was not permitted to keep handwritten notes about the Presidents Daily Brief and other classified information in unlocked drawers in his home. At a White House briefing on Friday, Ian Sams, a spokesperson for the White House Counsels Office, would not directly answer when asked about Bidens claims about the security of the documents held at his home. Look, I think the president was trying to address a number of inaccurate allegations in this report, Sams told CNNs MJ Lee. I dont have anything to add on what he said last night. Asked later whether he was saying the special counsels report was inaccurate about the storage of documents, Sams again avoided responding directly. The report lays out in 400 pages of detail all of the evidence and all of the review that they conducted in looking into this matter, he said. The president made sure that all of the classified documents that were found were returned promptly to the government, which is what youre supposed to do, which is why this is the inevitable conclusion that there is no case here. When the reporter pressed Sams, saying that wasnt a response to his question, Sams replied: I understand what youre trying to ask. He did not respond further to the question. The classification level of the documents Biden had in his possession Biden claimed of the documents he possessed: None of it was high classified. It didnt have any of that red stuff on it, you know what I mean, around the corners? None of that. Facts First: Bidens claim that none of the classified material found in his possession was highly classified is false, according to details provided by the special counsel. Hur reported the discovery of documents in Bidens possession that had markings identifying them as Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information, a very high level of classification plus handwritten notebooks from Bidens time as vice president that werent marked as classified but that contain information that remains classified up to the Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information level. Its not clear whether any of the marked classified documents found in Bidens possession had the colored borders seen on some of the marked classified documents found in Trumps possession, which is what Biden appeared to be referring to when he spoke about that red stuffaround the corners. Regardless, Hur explained at length that some of the documents were marked as Top Secretand some with other notations identifying them as highly classified. For example, Hur wrote, the open box in Bidens garage contained an Afghanistan-related memo from the National Security Adviser to President Barack Obama in 2009 marked TOP SECRET/SCI (Sensitive Compartmented Information). Hur wrote that experts in the intelligence community said the document contains highly sensitive information about the military programs of the United States and a foreign government. The unauthorized disclosure of this information, both today and in 2017 when Mr. Biden was no longer vice president, reasonably could be expected to cause exceptionally grave damage to the national security. Hur wrote that the box in the garage contained another 2009 memo from the National Security Adviser to Obama marked TOP SECRET WITH TOP SECRET/NOFORN/CODEWORD ATTACHMENTS with attachments, one of which was marked TOP SECRET//HUMINT/COMINT//ORCON/NOFORN//FISA.Hur wrote that experts said portions of this document contain national defense information about sensitive intelligence sources and methods. In addition, Hur wrote that notebooks with handwritten notes Biden took during his vice presidency contained information on U.S. intelligence sources, methods, and capabilities, U.S. intelligence activities and the activities of foreign intelligence services, among other things. Hur wrote that when investigators looked into a sampling of 37 excerpts from Bidens handwritten materials that appeared to be classified, they found that eight are Top Secret with Sensitive Compartmented Information, seven of which include information concerning human intelligence sources, while six are Top Secret alone, 21 Secret and two Confidential. Mr. Biden wrote down obviously sensitive information discussed during intelligence briefings with then President Obama and meetings in the White House Situation Room about matters of national security and military and foreign policy, Hur wrote. What Hur said Biden said to his ghostwriter Hur said in the report that Biden disclosed classified material from his notebooks to the ghostwriter, Mark Zwonitzer, who worked with him on a 2017 memoir called Promise Me, Dad. But Biden categorically denied that he had shared classified information with the ghostwriter, saying he can guarantee he didnt. When a reporter responded that the special counsel said he did, Biden responded, No, they did not say that. He did not say that. Facts First: Bidens claim is false. Hur did say that, writing explicitly that Mr. Biden shared information, including some classified information, from those notebooks with his ghostwriter. He elaborated that Biden shared classified information with his ghostwriter by reading nearly verbatim from his notebooks on at least three occasions, including his notes from meetings in the Situation Room. Hur did find, however, that Biden at times tried to avoid sharing classified information, by stopping at or skipping over certain material from the notebooks. And he wrote that the evidence does not show that when Mr. Biden shared the specific passages with his ghostwriter, Mr. Biden knew the passages were classified and intended to share classified information. Hur wrote that in one recorded conversation with the ghostwriter in 2017, at the Virginia home where Biden then lived, Biden read from his notebook about a National Security Council meeting about Iraq in 2015, then told the ghostwriter about a 2009 memo he had written to Obama arguing against the deployment of more troops to Afghanistan and then said, I just found all the classified stuff downstairs. Hur noted that more than five years later, investigators found classified documents about the Afghanistan troop surge in Bidens Delaware garage. Hur wrote that he has not heard of any allegations that classified material actually appeared in Bidens 2017 memoir. This story has been updated with additional reaction. CNNs Nikki Carvajal contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Claim: Beau Biden, U.S. President Joe Bidens son, died while serving in the military in Iraq. Rating: Rating: False Context: Biden falsely stated that his son Beau Biden died in Iraq, even though Beau actually died from brain cancer in 2015, six years after he returned from his military service. Biden himself has been open about his sons death from brain cancer, so the "died in Iraq" statement was made in error. However, Biden has attributed Beaus brain cancer to his exposure to toxic burn pits while he was serving in Iraq. U.S. President Joe Biden has falsely stated on more than one occasion that his elder son, Beau Biden, lost his life in Iraq. This claim has led to criticism from the news media, as well as questions about Biden's mental fitness. In a number of clips shared on X (formerly Twitter), Biden can be heard saying during a January 2024 phone call to a grieving family whose daughter was killed in a drone strike in Jordan: "My son spent a year in Iraq, that's how I lost him." Unbelievable Biden brings up his son Beau to grieving parents... "My son spent a year in Iraq, that's how I lost him". Beau Biden Iraq 2008 Diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme 2013 Passed away 2015 Served as a judge advocate general - a military lawyer - no combat pic.twitter.com/L08PCNbkFW Joni Job (@jj_talking) January 31, 2024 He did, however, add in the same call, according to a news report: "My son Beau lived near a burn pit in Baghdad. He came down with glioblastoma of the brain tumor, and lost him, too." In May 2023, while meeting with U.S. armed forces stationed in Japan, Biden reportedly said that Beau Biden died while serving in Iraq. This statement that Iraq was directly responsible for his son's death was made in error. Beau Biden died from brain cancer in 2015 while receiving treatment at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Maryland, where he died. He had served in Iraq in 2008 and 2009. Biden has spoken accurately about his son's death and the circumstances around it. On May 30, 2022, while speaking on Memorial Day, he said, "As I said, seven years ago today, our son, Major Beau Biden, took his last breath at Walter Reed. A major in the Delaware Army National Guard, he insisted on deploying to Iraq with his unit for a year when he was attorney general. He didn't die in the line of duty. He came home from Iraq with cancer. It was a horrific cancer that stole us from him, stole and him from us." The incorrect claims he made before were slip-ups. In October 2022, he said, "I say this as a father of a man who won the Bronze Star, the Conspicuous Service Medal, and lost his life in Iraq." In a November 2022 speech, Biden said, "I'm thinking of Iraq because that's where my son died." Biden has linked his son's brain cancer to potential exposure to toxic burn pits in Iraq and Kosovo where he served. In 2016, a year after Beau Biden's death, during a roundtable on cancer and the firefighters of 9/11, Biden shared a book titled "The Burn Pits: The Poisoning of America's Soldiers." The book also had an account of Beau Biden's time in service and his exposure to the pits, where military waste was burned. While neither the author nor Biden could prove the explicit connection between Beau's exposure to the pits and his brain cancer, veterans groups have often linked their various ailments to the burn pits. After reading the chapter on his son, Biden told the roundtable, "Guys, I'm going to be the biggest pain in your neck as long as I live, until we figure out about these burn pits." In a 2018 interview with "PBS News Hour," Biden said of the role of burn pits in increasing cancer risk, "Science has recognized there are certain carcinogens when people are exposed to them. Depending on the quantities and the amount in the water and the air, [they] can have a carcinogenic impact on the body." He described being "stunned" to read the chapter on his son in the book "The Burn Pits." He acknowledged that, "There is yet to be that I'm aware of any direct scientific evidence that a particular person came back with a lot higher incidence of cancer coming from Iraq now and Afghanistan, than in other wars." Biden has mistakenly stated that his son died in Iraq, while also stating the true circumstances of his son's death in other instances. Beau Biden died of cancer while in Maryland, years after he had left Iraq. Sources: "Biden Addresses Possible Link between Son's Fatal Brain Cancer and Toxic Military Burn Pits." PBS News Hour, Jan. 10, 2018, www.youtube.com, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YMp1SU7jvg0. Accessed 24 May 2023. "Biden Again Claimed Son Beau Died "in Iraq" to Marines at Japan Stop." New York Post, 22 May 2023, https://nypost.com/2023/05/22/biden-again-claimed-son-beau-died-in-iraq-to-marines-at-japan-stop/. Accessed 24 May 2023. "Biden Again Wrongly Says Son Beau Died in Iraq in Stumbling Florida Speech." New York Post, 1 Nov. 2022, https://nypost.com/2022/11/01/biden-again-wrongly-says-son-beau-died-in-iraq-in-stumbling-florida-speech/. Accessed 24 May 2023. "Remarks by President Biden at the 154th National Memorial Day Observance." The White House, 30 May 2022, https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/speeches-remarks/2022/05/30/remarks-by-president-biden-at-the-154th-national-memorial-day-observance/. Accessed 24 May 2023. "Remarks By President Biden On Protecting And Conserving America's Iconic Outdoor Spaces." The White House, 12 Oct. 2022, https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/speeches-remarks/2022/10/12/remarks-by-president-biden-on-protecting-and-conserving-americas-iconic-outdoor-spaces/. Accessed 24 May 2023. "Remarks by President Biden on Protecting Social Security and Medicare and Lowering Prescription Drug Costs." The White House, 2 Nov. 2022, https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/speeches-remarks/2022/11/01/remarks-by-president-biden-on-protecting-social-security-and-medicare-and-lowering-prescription-drug-costs/. Accessed 24 May 2023. Neuman, Scott. "Beau Biden, Vice President's Son, Remembered In Delaware Service." NPR, 6 June 2015. NPR, https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2015/06/06/412458537/beau-biden-vice-presidents-son-remembered-in-delaware-service. Accessed 24 May 2023. Shear, Michael D. "Beau Biden, Vice President Joe Biden's Son, Dies at 46." The New York Times, 31 May 2015. NYTimes.com, https://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/31/us/politics/joseph-r-biden-iii-vice-presidents-son-beau-dies-at-46.html. Accessed 24 May 2023. "Vice President's Son Beau Biden Dies at 46 of Brain Cancer." AP NEWS, https://apnews.com/article/-----d8f69eb645d74b7886387f713981b739. Accessed 24 May 2023. Viser, Matt. "Biden Wonders Publicly Whether Burn Pits Caused His Son's Death. Activists Want Him to Do More on the Issue." Washington Post, 28 Nov. 2021. www.washingtonpost.com, https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/biden-beau-burn-pits/2021/11/27/894b382a-4973-11ec-b8d9-232f4afe4d9b_story.html. Accessed 24 May 2023. Feral hogs forage for food during winter months, and the destruction they leave behind can be a nuisance for Texans. Shannon Tompkins/Houston Chronicle After nearly seven years, Kaput Feral Hog Bait is returning to the market for Texas farmers looking for a way to deal with the state's rampant feral hog problem. The bait containing warfarin, a blood thinner that is poisonous to hogs, was registered for statewide use Feb. 1 for people with a pesticide applicator license. Texas Agricultural Commissioner Sid Miller fully supports its use in the state. The product is expected to be available on shelves in the spring. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "It'll eradicate them. If you have hogs on your property that are devastating your crops and your field, you can put this bait out and eliminate the problem," Miller said. "It goes right to the source of the problem." It was first approved back in 2017 with support from Miller and the backing of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Miller said his team had done research at the time that demonstrated it was safe. But Kaput pulled the product before it was officially released a few months later, claiming threats of lawsuits. Miller said there was a lot of misinformation during those few months with panic and hysteria "propagated by the opposition." At least one lawsuit was filed at the time, which led to a state district judge blocking the initial ruling from Miller. The Texas House also approved a bill stating all potentially lethal pesticides must be subject to state or university research prior to approval. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The bait underwent more study. New research released last year found the bait effective, setting it up to return to the marketplace. NEW RESEARCH: Texas tests new poison for feral hogs in race to control the invasive species "If the landowner follows a very specific application protocol, actually teaches the pigs how to feed out of a hog-specific feeder and integrates a nontoxic bait over several weeks before they ever introduce a hot bait, the product does kill the pigs effectively," Texas Wildlife Services director Mike Bodenchuk said after the research was publicized. Bodenchuk said the warfarin-based bait is not going to solve all feral hog problems. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension wildlife specialist John Tomecek said in a statement after the research was released that no non-hogs had access to the bait when the feeders are used correctly. Warfarin is found in rat poison but the feral hog bait has only 20% of the warfarin found in rat poison. FROM 2017: Rat poison use at center of feral hog battle Advertisement Article continues below this ad Kaput Feral Hog Bait includes a blue dye that turns a pig's fatty tissues blue when they eat it so farmers can know which animals have been poisoned. The health risk to humans is low. Feral hogs are a major problem for farmers in the state of Texas, with Miller noting a 2018 estimate of the animal causing $500 million in property and crop damages across Texas. Miller thinks that number is low, and he estimated that there was $5 billion worth of damage from the feral hogs over the seven years the product was off the market. Feral hogs, wild pigs whatever you call them, they are one of the most destructive invasive species in Texas and the U.S. today, Texas Farm Bureau President Russell Boening told Texas Agriculture Daily. The environmental damage they cause is staggering, and disease risks to humans and other animals are very real. This toxicant is another way to try to get control of the fast-growing population and limit the damage they can do. There are now two baits Texas farmers can use to try to curb the rampant problem. In addition to Kaput, HogStop is also available. HogStop is not a poison but instead is a contraceptive that stops a male hog's ability to reproduce. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Miller said he doesn't expect to add another feral hog bait product to the market anytime soon. EVANSVILLE John Hostettler, who represented the 8th District in Congress from 1995 until 2007, is running for the seat again. Hostettler, 62, announced his surprise candidacy for the 2024 Republican congressional nomination late Thursday afternoon in a nearly eight-minute video stuffed with fiscal and foreign policy prescriptions. He flung political arrows at Democratic President Joe Biden's administration, drawing parallels between today and 1994, the year he was first elected to Congress as a critic of then-Democratic President Bill Clinton. "Thirty years ago, I made a similar announcement," Hostettler said before launching into his campaign appeal. "When I consider where our country is today, the words of Yogi Berra come to mind: 'It's deja vu all over again.'" Hostettler joins an already-crowded race for the GOP's nomination in the wake of Republican 8th District Rep. Larry Bucshon's announcement last month that he will not seek re-election. According to the Indiana Secretary of State's Office, Hostettler had not officially filed his candidacy by Thursday night. But the deadline for filing doesn't arrive until noon Friday. More: Will Trump get involved in the 8th District congressional race? 1994 was a banner year for Republicans in congressional elections across the country. Hostettler was re-elected five times after that. That is, until 2006, when he drew then-Vanderburgh County Sheriff Brad Ellsworth as an opponent and ran headlong into a nationwide Democratic buzzsaw. Republicans lost 31 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives that year. The difference maker, arguably, was the Iraq War. Fueled by a national wave of support for Democrats opposed to American involvement in Iraq under Republican President George W. Bush, Democrats swept aside local GOP candidates in Vanderburgh County from congressional to township levels. In the 8th District, Ellsworth defeated Hostettler by 61-39%, the largest margin of defeat for any incumbent in the country. Hostettler's campaign website contains no biography updating voters on what he's been doing since leaving Congress more than 17 years ago, but a 2022 Texas Public Policy Foundation bio calls him "former vice president of federal affairs for States Trust, a Foundation initiative promoting state-based solutions to restore the principle of federalism, holding up states as innovators of effective public policy." More: Bucshon built a very specific profile in Congress. He says he won't seek re-election. Hostettler started the publishing company Publius House and founded the Constitution Institute, which held seminars throughout Indiana, teaching about the U.S. Constitution. He has written at least two books. According to a biography of Hostettler that once appeared on his website, he had "accepted a position as director of the Center for Christian Statesmanship, an outreach of the late Dr. D. James Kennedy's organization Coral Ridge Ministries." Hostettler did mount an energetic campaign for the 2010 Republican U.S. Senate nomination in Indiana, but he ultimately fell short. An engineer by training, Hostettler graduated from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology with a degree in mechanical engineering. It was unclear in the hours after Hostettler's surprise announcement Thursday how he might fare in today's Republican Party, dominated by Donald Trump and a vastly changed national media environment. The race to succeed Bucshon in Congress has barely begun. This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: John Hostettler running for Congress in Indiana Relatives and supporters of Israelis held hostage by Hamas attend a committee hearing at the Knesset, Israel's parliament, in Jerusalem, Monday, Feb. 5, 2024. Across Israel, the chants of "Now! Now! Now!" ring out at nearly every protest imploring Israel's government to do everything possible to win the immediate release of dozens of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. But a small group of families of hostages are pushing a different message: let the army first finish the job of defeating the militant group. (AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo) JERUSALEM (AP) Chants of Now! Now! Now! ring out at nearly every protest in Israel imploring the government to do everything possible to win the immediate release of dozens of hostages held by Hamas. But a small group of hostages' families is pushing a different message: Let the army first finish the job of defeating the militant group, even if that delays the return of their loved ones. These families argue that the price to be paid in any hostage deal the release of large numbers of Palestinian militants held by Israel would endanger the country in the future. When you release terrorists, they will return to murder. Thats how it has always been, said Tzvika Mor, whose son Eitan, 23, was abducted four months ago from the Nova music festival, where he was working as a security guard. How can you stand in front of people and say, I want my son back, and I dont care about you? Mor told The Associated Press by phone. Instead of us only worrying about our son, we are concerned for the whole country." Most of the hostages' relatives sharply disagree with Mor, saying only a deal can free the captives and that their chances of survival are increasingly dim given the dangerous conditions in Gaza. Those fears were heightened late Wednesday when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected the latest Hamas demands for a hostage deal as delusional and instead vowed to pursue war until total victory. The hostages' plight has captured the Israeli public's attention since they were seized during the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas on southern Israel that sparked the war. Posters of the captives are plastered on city streets, and many Israelis now wear necklaces with symbolic military-style dog tags and small yellow ribbons in solidarity with them. Protests calling on the government to reach a deal with Hamas have grown in size and intensity as the crisis has dragged on. And fearing that time is running out to bring them home safely, protesters have grown increasingly vocal in some cases grabbing microphones and letting out blood-curdling screams. Mor said he knows his opinion is different from whats acceptable and is even viewed as unnatural. In December, Alon Nimrodi, the father of hostage Tamir Nimrodi, told Mor during a live show on Israels Channel 11, just because you gave up on your son, doesnt mean I will give up on mine, causing Mor to break down in tears. The Mor family and two other hostages' families founded the Tikva Forum, a loosely organized group whose public members are mostly religious and right-wing. They share the belief that military pressure, not an immediate cease-fire or hostage release deal, is the best way to bring their loved ones home. Mor said his critics cant understand how he could put his ideology above the natural response to seek the safe return of loved ones. He and others in the forum say they are being rational and that their critics are being led by their emotions. Approximately 250 people were taken hostage during the Oct. 7 attack in which Hamas also killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians. Israel's ensuing war on Hamas in Gaza has killed more than 27,000 Palestinians, two-thirds of whom are women and children, according to local health officials in Gaza, where Hamas continues to hold sway in some areas. During a weeklong cease-fire in November, approximately 100 hostages were released in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners, mostly women and children who had been convicted of minor offenses. In its latest demands, Hamas is seeking the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including those convicted of killing Israelis during the long-running conflict, in exchange for freeing all the hostages. That's unacceptable to the Tikva Forum, whose views hew closely to Netanyahu's. Surrendering to the delusional demands of Hamas that we have heard not only wont lead to the release of the hostages, it will invite another massacre, Netanyahu told reporters Wednesday. Netanyahu's words were devastating for the vast majority of hostages' families. Im extremely scared that if you continue along this path there wont be any more hostages to release, said 72-year-old Adina Moshe, who was among the hostages freed in November, referring to Netanyahu. As Hamas leaders arrived in Cairo on Thursday for another round of talks, Mor was in the United States arguing Israels case for continued military pressure. Mor said he's certain he is acting in accordance with his son's wishes. A few months before Oct. 7, Mor said he was sitting around the table after a Shabbat meal with his children, including Eitan, who is the oldest of eight. Mor lives in Kiryat Arba, a Jewish settlement that is known for its far-right ideology and that is next to Hebron, the largest Palestinian city in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. They were discussing the 2011 Gilad Shalit deal, in which more than 1,000 Palestinian prisoners were released in exchange for Shalit, an Israeli soldier who was taken from his tank into Gaza in 2006 and held captive for five years. Yehya Sinwar, the Hamas leader in Gaza and mastermind of the Oct. 7 attack, was among those released in the swap. Mor said he had opposed the exchange, and that Eitan concurred. Eitan said he didnt want there to be a situation where they would release him for murderers, Mor said. We know they will go back to murdering the same way they did after Gilad Shalit. Mor said other hostages' families are associated with the Tikva Forum, not just its three founding families, and that they share the belief that continued military pressure is key to releasing the captives. He said many members do not want to be publicly identified because they are worried that Hamas could make conditions worse for their loved ones. Ditza Or is a founding member of the Tikva Forum. Her son Avinatan was last seen being marched away from the music festival by Hamas militants as his girlfriend, Noa Argamani, screamed dont kill me! as she was dragged towards Gaza. Several weeks ago, Hamas released a video showing Argamani alive, but there has been no word of her fate since. Avinatans uncle, Shimon Or, told the AP that he believes that Avinatan would be proud of his family's stance. Negotiations must be made from a place of strength, he said. They are identifying our weaknesses and in another few years theyll attack us again, he said, referring to Hamas. Liran Berman fears for the worst if Israel stays on its current course. His 26-year-old brothers, twins Gali and Ziv Berman, were abducted from Kibbutz Kfar Aza. We see that when theres a deal, hostages return, and in between, when there isnt, only bodies come back, said Berman. Standing outside the ruins of his brothers' homes last week, Berman noted that Israeli troops have freed only one hostage during the four months of war. Once any deal is available, the government must grab it, he said. Only through a deal we will get my brothers back, Berman said. Popular 99 Rock radio host Gonzo needs your help after suffering injuries a single-car accident on Feb. 2. FORT WALTON BEACH A popular Fort Walton Beach radio personality needs your help. Gonzo, co-host of 99 Rock's Morning Movement, has been receiving treatment in a local hospital since Feb. 2 after suffering injuries in a single-car accident that was caused after he tried to avoid a bear that ran across the road. In the accident, Gonzo suffered multiple broken ribs and cuts and is currently in the intensive care unit. After making a school bomb threat: Crestview teen charged with felony "It's been really tough seeing our friend and co-worker in the hospital, eyes closed, sedated, with a ventilator to help him breathe," said 99 Rock host Kevin McKay. "A lot of people have told us that Gonzo is family because they listen every day, and it's amazing to see listeners donate. Thank you for that. It will be a long road, but we are all here for him." To help ease the burden of medical and personal bills and to hopefully afford a new car, Gonzo and his family have started a GoFundMe fundraiser drive that local fans and listeners can donate to. It can be found at https://www.gofundme.com/f/lets-help-gonzo-get-back-on-his-feet-literally. This article originally appeared on Northwest Florida Daily News: Local radio personality Gonzo injured in accident. Family seeks help Valentine's Day is right around the corner, and it is not too late to plan the perfect date. Here is a list of the family-friendly and date night ideas to celebrate Valentine's Day with the ones you love the most. More: Valentine's Day is right around the corner. Let us know how you like to celebrate! More: How did this African American trolley tour come about in South Jersey? Celebrate Valentines Day with the family Smores to Love For some parents, Valentine's Day may not mean a romantic evening on the town with chocolate and wine, but here are still some ways to get the little ones involved. Merchantville will be hosting a S'mores to Love event on Friday, Feb. 9. The event will be held in downtown Merchantville with music, shops, treats, a free s'mores and even a showing of Disney's Lady and the Tramp. The no-cost event starts at 6 p.m. Go: Chestnut Avenue & Centre Street Gazebo, Merchantville Cookie decorating What the Scoop in Sewell will host a cookie decorating class for kids. During the event, starting at noon on Feb. 10, kids will be able to decorate sugar cookies in any fashion as they will be able to unleash their creativity. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online on Eventbrrite: Valentine's Day Cookie Decorating Class - Kids Tickets, Sat, Feb 10, 2024 at 12:00 PM | Eventbrite Go: 253 Hurffville - Cross Keys Road Washington Township Smooches and Smores On Feb. 10 and 11, Dancing Horse Farm in Pemberton will host a Smooches and S'mores event for children of all ages. Families will be able to roast s'mores by a fire pit, shop the gift shop and even feed alpacas. The event, $10 for adults and $5 for kids, runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. Go: 221 Fort Dix Road, Pemberton Jump off On Valentine's Day, Jump Kids Health will host a Join the Valentine's Day Jump off for kids ages 5-13. The event will be in Mount Holly on Mill Saw Road at the Jump Kids Studio. There will be music, food, jumping and double dutch. The event will take place between 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. A $10 donation is required. Go: 25 Church Street Suite C, Mount Holly Date ideas and events for a romantic night out If youre looking for more romantic plans or couples options, there are events starting this weekend and some going into next weekend. Valentine's Dinner Dance Tomasello Winery is hosting a Valentine's Dinner Dance in Hammonton. Whether celebrating with your special loved one or having a couple's night out, the four-course meal will have you wanting to dance afterwords in their ballroom. The event will start at 7 and go until 11 p.m. The cost per person is $62.95 plus gratuity and tax. Go: 225 North White Horse Pike Hammonton Comedy show Robert's Bar and Grill will be hosting a comedy show on Valentine's Day. Jerrold Benford and Zach Pickett are headlining the show, starting at 8 p.m.. The cost is $25 a ticket. Go: 281 Cross Keys Road, Berlin Scavenger hunt DNB East City Events hosts a Love Scavenger Hunt based in Bordentown. Through an app that you will download, your partner and yourself will have to complete different tasks in order to complete the scavenger hunt. While participating in the Scavenger Hunt is free, DNB East City Events just asks for a small donation but otherwise is free. Go: Bordentown, New Jersey Painting with a twist Painting with a Twist will be hosting many different events through and past Valentine's Day. Whether you want to paint a portrait of your pet or something that symbolizes your love, Painting with a Twist will be the artistic alternative to just a dinner. Prices may vary depending on the class. Go: 127 Ark Rd Ste 18, Mt Laurel More: Burlington County teen selected for exclusive Disney Dreamers Academy Nick Butler is an impact reporter for the Courier Post, the Daily Journal and the Burlington County Times covering community news in South Jersey. Have any tips or stories? Reach out to NButler@Gannett.com. Subscribe to stay in the loop. This article originally appeared on Cherry Hill Courier-Post: Different ideas to celebrate Valentine's Day in South Jersey Authorities with the Los Angeles Police Department, along with the family of a missing 32-year-old woman, are asking for the publics help in locating her, officials announced Thursday evening. Asia Alvarado was last seen at around 10 a.m. Thursday near Oxnard Street and Farralone Avenue in Woodland Hills. The 32-year-old is described as a Black adult female with black hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 1 inch tall and weighing approximately 135 pounds. She was last seen wearing black clothing and burgundy shoes. missing person Alvarado was possibly walking northbound on Topanga Boulevard from Oxnard Avenue where she is not familiar with the area, LAPD stated in the missing persons bulletin. Her mental condition is described as poor, authorities added. Mojave Desert massacre: Officials seek help identifying 1 of 6 slain victims Anyone with information about her whereabouts or who may have seen her is asked to contact LAPDs Topanga Division at 818-756-4800. Anonymous tips can be made through L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or submitted online at L.A. Crime Stoppers. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Thousands of farmers gathering for a mass meeting in Carmarthen at the start of February Scenes of farmers protesting in their tractors across Europe have claimed the headlines recently. From country to country the reasons for farmers' unhappiness varies - but rising costs, tighter regulations and policy changes are common complaints. Now farmers in Wales are also threatening action, claiming that the Welsh government has turned its back on the countryside. Ministers completely reject that, arguing their commitment to farming "at this challenging time is very clear". So what are the issues that are causing this resentment here? Farmers outside Rennes, France during nationwide protests over pay, tax and regulations Sustainable Farming Scheme The spark that ignited the flames here was probably the publication of the latest consultation on the Sustainable Farming Scheme. This is the Welsh government's big plan for funding the industry after Brexit - which puts a lot more emphasis on the environment. In order to gain access to the scheme, farmers will have to commit to having trees on 10% of their land, and earmark another 10% as wildlife habitat. Arguing that this isn't practical while keeping a farm business going, many are concerned that the other requirements of the scheme will overwhelm them with paperwork. On the other hand, the government is also under pressure from environmentalists to ensure that the plan is ambitious. As 80% of Wales' landscape is under the care of farmers, the argument is that they have a key role to play in helping the effort to tackle climate change and the losses in nature. Money for encouraging wildlife, like this meadow pipit, is less than under the previous programme Habitat Wales Scheme Before the Sustainable Farming Scheme is introduced from 2025 onwards there is another row about temporary environmental payments in 2024. The amount that is offered financially under the Habitat Wales Scheme - to reward farmers for helping wildlife - is 45% lower than under the old system - the Glastir scheme. The Welsh government insists that it has had to prioritise protecting the budget of the basic payment that farmers are used to, receiving based on the amount of land under their care. You may hear farmers refer to this as the BPS. But the situation has angered farmers of all stripes - including the most environmentally-friendly ones that the government wants to see succeed. Ministers say regulations to control how slurry and fertilisers are used are vital to tackle pollution incidents NVZ Here are three more letters which are often on the lips of farmers. Until recently, approximately 4% of Welsh land was designated as nitrate vulnerable zones. These are areas with strict rules on the storage and spreading of man-made fertilizer and animal manure in order to protect water quality in our rivers. But in 2021 the Welsh government decided to expand similar rules to NVZ to encompass the whole country. The change is being introduced gradually but in due course farmers will only be allowed to spread these fertilisers at certain times of the year, which means that many will have to invest significant money in storage or reduce the amount of animals they keep. Fishermen and river campaigners insist that strict regulation is needed. TB Last, but not least, is the effort to tackle tuberculosis or TB in cattle. For some farmers this is the most important reason for their dissatisfaction with the Welsh government. The disease has blighted large parts of Wales for decades leading to restrictions and heartache for affected farms. Cattle face constant testing and those showing signs of the infection are killed. There were 9,669 animals slaughtered in the year to last September, a rise of 1.7% compared with the previous 12 months But the majority of farmers insist that a badger cull program is also needed, something the Welsh government refuses to introduce. Rising costs of farming. Increased average farming costs in Wales from 2021-22 to 2022-23 [ 15% Total farm business costs ] [ 53% Fertilisers ],[ 41% Machinery fuels ],[ 34% Share of interest payments ],[ 25% Feed and fodder ],[ 24% Crop protection ], Source: Source: Annual Farm Business Survey/Stats Wales, 2024, Image: Dairy farm Rising costs adding to anger So there is a combination of things angering farmers at the moment - all at a time when rising costs are putting businesses under pressure and also a feeling that their role in feeding the country is not respected. The Welsh government insists that their plans will ensure safe food production systems, keep farmers farming the land, protect the environment and address the urgent call of the climate crisis and the nature crisis. Watch on iPlayer banner Watch on iPlayer footer Mo Jenkins is running to represent Texas House District 139. Raj Mankad Just a few years ago, Mo Jenkins was a college junior visiting with lawmakers as part of a campus trip to the Texas Capitol. Now shes the clerk for the House Corrections Committee and has had a hand in some major legislative wins, including negotiations behind the so-called Herrero budget amendment that helped sink school vouchers in the regular session with bipartisan support. Only 25 years old, Jenkins knowledge of the lawmaking process would be the envy of elder statesmen. Shes hoping to put it to work next session. Jenkins would be a stellar candidate on her legislative chops alone but she also brings a rich lived experience. When she was just 13 years old, her mother died. She lived with family for a bit but she told us she fell through the cracks of foster care and ended up homeless as a result. I am the youngest person at this table, she said in a recent screening with the editorial board, but Im also the very product of Republican and Democratic failures, noting the barriers that she has nonetheless scaled skillfully. Im very proud of that. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Perhaps because of this, it seems little daunts her today. She graduated high school with a general studies associates degree and made her way through university, earning a political science degree from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. She worked as a legislative aide and then director for state Rep. Abel Herrero. Her acute awareness of system failures and her legislative know-how make her a strong pick to replace outgoing Democratic Rep. Jarvis Johnson in House District 139. Her fluency in lawmaking and unflappable poise make her a truly exciting candidate to watch. Competing for a coveted open seat, Jenkins is joined in the race by an array of accomplished candidates who draw from their own diverse experiences. Charlene Ward Johnson serves on Houston Community Colleges board and has experience advocating for funding and policy at the state level. Angeanette Thibodeaux is a neighborhood civic leader and has headed multibillion-dollar corporate funds dedicated to affordable housing. Jerry Ford Sr. is a business owner and former assistant chief with the Houston Fire Department with decades of experience who bills himself as a public safety-minded independent, having run before as a Republican. And Rosalind Caesar brings intimate knowledge of the states criminal justice system, having worked with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice as well as serving on her local Municipal Utility District board and pursuing related legislation. The candidates share many positions on issues. Thibodeaux talked about strengthening reentry programs for prisoners, something Jenkins, Caesar and Ward Johnson, who happens to be the ex-wife of the former representative in the seat, echoed. Caesar emphasized the need to properly staff TDCJ to better protect inmates and employees and talked about being eight months pregnant in the heat of an un-air-conditioned Texas prison. Ford stressed the need for more border fencing and surveillance technology. Ward Johnson touted her years of corporate experience in the energy industry. Jenkins said she would prioritize access to affordable health care. Advertisement Article continues below this ad VOTER GUIDE: Everything you need to know for the 2024 Texas Primary Election Jenkins hasnt raised as much money as her challengers but she stood out to us immediately, in part for her confidence and policy insight. If the questions threw her, she didnt let on. I have made myself a go-to person about things pertaining to Corrections Committee, things pertaining to our rules, public education, LGBT life, she said calmly. She would be the first openly trans representative in the Texas Legislature, though she focused on policy, not her gender identity, during the screening. Mo will be an exceptional representative in advocating for constituents priorities, wrote state Rep. Herrero in an email to the board. From behind the scenes, she said, she advises on legislative strategy: arguments, points of order to derail bills, using the calendar to a bills advantage. When you have that respect of that knowledge, thats a way that you can kill a lot of that bad legislation, said Jenkins. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Unfortunately, not all of our legislators use it, but me, Im going to use everything in my power to kill that bad legislation, promote good legislation. While Fat Tuesday is most often associated with colorful beads and parades in New Orleans, the holiday has a long history and interesting traditions. In the United States, the first-ever Fat Tuesday is believed to have occurred in 1699. Fat Tuesday, also known as Mardi Gras, originated in France but became a popular holiday in New Orleans due to the citys French influence. Today, most major cities across the country have joined in on the fun and celebrations, too. Arizona residents are also eagerly anticipating the celebration of the holiday, and various large events were already planned across the Valley. But before you go, read up on the history of the holiday, find out how it's celebrated, and when the festivities begin and end. When is Fat Tuesday? Fat Tuesday is on Feb. 13, 2024. More: When is Lent? What you need to know about the religious celebration What is Fat Tuesday? Fat Tuesday, also called Mardi Gras in French, is a holiday celebrated in France on Shrove Tuesday, which is the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, a Christian holy day of prayer and fasting. The day is meant to mark the end of the pre-Lenten season, the time of preparation for Easter. The holiday gained popularity in New Orleans, attracting people from around the world to attend the vibrant carnival celebration. Why is it called Fat Tuesday? The name "Fat Tuesday" derives from the custom of using and eating all the fats one has at home before Lent to prepare for fasting and abstinence. How is Fat Tuesday celebrated? In New Orleans, a grand carnival is held with parades scheduled during both day and night. Fat Tuesday is famously associated with the distribution of vibrant yellow, gold, green, and purple beads to festival-goers. Another popular activity during this time is indulging in the tradition of eating King Cake, a gold, green and purple pastry with a plastic baby figurine in the center. When is Good Friday 2024? What to know about the religious holiday and how it's celebrated This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: When is Fat Tuesday 2024? What to know about Mardi Gras The first sign was the countdown clock. On Feb 1 2003, nine-year-old Kaycee Anderson was in the crowded bleachers by Floridas Kennedy Space Centre, watching the seconds tick down towards zero then start climbing back up again. The perfectly blue sky seemed to highlight the absence of the Columbia space shuttle, due to return to Earth that Saturday morning with her father, Mike, and the six other astronauts on board. Instead of a sonic boom and the orbiter approaching, all of a sudden, people were on the phone talking in urgent tones, and then they were getting in vans, Kaycee, now 30, remembers. Thats when I knew, this isnt normal. Along with her mother, sister and the rest of the astronauts families, they were bundled into a van, driven to the Space Centre, and told that the worst had happened. Minutes from when they should have landed to a heros welcome, the shuttle had broken up at 190,000ft, sending burning metal and human remains plummeting to the ground in east Texas. The shuttles disintegration as it breached the planets barrier had been broadcast on live television as the families stood staring at the sky, among the last to know their loved ones fate. Twenty-one years on from flight STS-107, it remains among the worst space disasters in history, charted in painful detail in Columbia: The Space Shuttle That Fell to Earth, a three-part BBC documentary series beginning Monday (Feb 12). By the time of its 28th and final mission, Columbia dubbed the worlds greatest electric flying machine had spent more time in space than any other shuttle. All the more galling, then, that the incident could have been avoided completely. The STS-107 crewmembers. Blue shirts from the left: David M Brown, William C McCool and Michael Anderson. Red shirts from the left: Kalpana Chawla, Rick D Husband, Laurel B Clark and Ilan Ramon - NASA/Getty Images From the moment the families learnt what had happened, it was just chaos, says Kaycee. She was confused, she recalls, that her father who had spent eight days in space on Endeavour mission STS-89 in 1998 had not returned like the last time; on the flight back to Houston, she spent the journey staring out at the clouds, thinking, Is Dad up here? Am I close to him? Neighbours were crowded at their front door when the three Andersons got home, where they all just hugged and cried for a long time. It would mark the beginning of a national grief juggernaut: there were memorial services, a meeting with President Bush; It was just this whirlwind of things. And so we were sad, but there was so much happening that you dont really get to sit in it. Once those commitments drifted away is when it became more real. And for me, it became very scary. Nasa had been providing security detail outside their home, and their post was being screened (a number of strange calls, in some cases from prisons, had got through) but once that ceased, I was terrified, I couldnt sleep, I didnt know what was going on. I was constantly looking over my shoulder. The widow of US astronaut Michael Anderson, Mrs Anderson, and her two daughters Sindy (left) and Kaycee (right) planting a tree in memory of Michael Anderson on 19 March 2004 - AFP/Gali Tibbon To have their parents taken so brutally, and on the world stage, left the children of crew 107 fundamentally altered. Jonathan Clark, a Nasa crew surgeon whose wife, Laurel, was on board, had spent the lead-up to launch concerned about their seven-year-old, Iain. Their boy had begged her not to go his fears intensifying after the family had narrowly survived an aircraft crash the previous Christmas; Iains mother was his whole world. Now still, Jonathan, 70, who met Laurel during navy training, cant even imagine the quandary she would have faced. Had she pulled out, the mission she and the rest of the crew had spent years training for would have been aborted. She was determined and committed to get the job done. Iain cried throughout the launch, on Jan 16; a grim foreshadowing of what was to come a little over a fortnight later. In his office at Nasa that Saturday morning, where Jonathan saw the footage of 107s final moments, he was hit by a primal grief; it was like deep animal wailing cries. He tried numbing his thoughts by playing cards with Iain on the flight home, and quickly concocted a plan: once back, he would load his son into the car with their Australian shepherd, Addie, and all their camping gear, and empty his account at the nearest cash machine: Were just going to drive away and disappear. But when they landed, they were separated by friends, and that broke my plan apart, he reflects. I still to this day wonder, what if I could have done that? Instead, that night, in enduring navy tradition, he got really s- -t-faced drunk with colleagues. When we lost our mates, we would just drink and remember. Laurel Clark's seven-year-old son, Iain, had 'begged her not to go' during the lead up to the launch He becomes emotional as we talk, more so as he quotes Mark Twains decree that the two most important days of your life are when youre born, and when you find out why. And that was the day I found out why. There were times after losing his wife of 12 years that I thought I was going to die of dehydration from crying. He feared grief might push Iain so far as depression and suicide, so developed a solitary goal: just keep him alive. The two of them (along with Addie) would bundle up in bed, that countdown clock embedded in my mind. I would have replays of that for months and months afterwards, trying to analyse: is there something I could have done differently? Is there something that Id missed? For Jonathan, that thought is more acute than most. He had not been the primary crew surgeon for mission 107, but was covering a few dog shifts (from midnight to mornings). On one, reviewing the log notes to get up to speed, he learnt that a block of foam from the shuttles exterior had fallen off on launch, appearing to strike its left wing. By day two of the mission and just days before the 17th anniversary of the Challenger disaster, where seven crew had been killed 73 seconds after take-off in 1986 Nasa officials deduced that the loss of spacecraft and all those inside was a worst-case scenario. Laurel Clark blew kisses to her son Iain over video link as she orbited Earth Jonathan wondered if I should tell Laurel about this but on discussing it with his colleague was told: Youre wearing the crew surgeon hat, not the family member hat. And so, reasoning that it was not his call, he mentioned nothing when they were connected via video link, Laurel blowing kisses to Iain as she orbited Earth. In some ways, he says, what followed is probably my blame too. Whether the seven crew could have been saved hangs heavy over many of those at Nasa at the time. The documentary unpicks the battle between those concerned that the foam strike would yield deadly consequences, and Nasa management, where bureaucracy was so hardwired that staff did not ask vital questions for fear of disrupting the status quo. Repeated requests to use satellites to take closer images of the damage were denied by the top brass; foam had detached in prior missions without catastrophic consequences, and thus was deemed not worth remedying. The crew would learn that something had happened only on the eighth day of their mission several days past the point where potential damage could have been fixed when Linda Ham, the acting manager of shuttle launch integration, sent them a brief email on a matter she described as not even worth mentioning. Eight days after that, when mission control watched their tracking radar stall over Texas, the damage having originated in the left wing, commanders could only reach their hands to their mouths, tears falling from their eyes as they stared at the screen in horror. Flight STS-107 remains among the worst space disasters in history - Courtesy of Scott Andrews Following 107s failure to return, Ron Dittemore, the shuttle programme manager, publicly dismissed that the foam strike was to blame with a certainty former employees describe in the documentary as nonsensical. What had become an unofficial Nasa mantra its only foam would six months later be recorded as the reason that the crew never saw their families again. It almost felt like a betrayal, Kaycee says: that her father had worked with [Nasa], had loved them, and this is how they treated him. It kept her up at night, wondering how staffers were afraid of these hypothetical questions, or having their careers ruined. Well, lives were ruined who cares about your career? And so thats when it became anger. And thats when anger eventually became disgust. She couldnt look at anything with Nasas insignia on it, she recalls; when the end of the shuttle programme was announced in 2011, she thought: Good, burn it all to the ground. In time, those feelings subsided, replaced instead by sadness for those who had made the final calls. The documentary was heartbreaking, she says; watching Nasa staff recounting how they could have done something I dont have to live with that kind of regret. Michael Anderson did not return like he did in 1998 on Endeavour mission STS-89 - NASA/Getty Images Jonathan too says he lays no blame at anyones door; that everybody who was a part of that decision process has suffered immeasurably. (Arron Fellows, the creative director of Mindhouse Productions, which made the series, says Nasa co-operated with filming throughout: I think the reason they have given their blessing to this project is because they understand mistakes were made.) In space mishaps, as they are known, the goal is to find cause, not fault, Jonathan adds; to do better next time. He has never remarried, and still lives for Laurel; both her memory, and the seven-year-old granddaughter who now bears her name. Little Laurel is the same age as Iain was when he lost his mother, and the similarities between her and her namesake are eerie, Jonathan says; she is effervescently friendly, obsessed with the water, animals and adventure. Its like seeing Laurel again. Columbia: The Space Shuttle That Fell to Earth begins on Monday Feb 12 on BBC Two at 9pm Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Federal officials have cracked down on a Portland pizza chain that has been accused of stealing tips from its employees. On Wednesday, the U.S. Department of Labor reported that managers at Pizzicato have participated in tip pools despite the Fair Labor Standards Act which prohibits any managers or supervisors from withholding tips from other staff members. 2023 poll finds negative views on Portland-area, homelessness a top issue for voters According to DOLs Wage and Hour Division, managers and supervisors can only keep tips when customers give the money directly to them for a service that they provided themselves. For example, a restaurant manager who serves their own tables may keep their own tips from customers they served but would not be able to receive other employees tips by participating in a tip pool, the agency explained. Officials said investigators found that tips were illegally distributed at the companys 11 restaurants across the metro area. Pizzicatos owners and CEO are now required to pay 367 employees $270,101 in back wages, along with $270,101 in liquidated damages. Mountain climber rescued on Mount Hood after getting lost in snow Additionally, the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon has ordered the company to pay $29,797 in legal penalties. The resolution of this case should remind restaurant employers that the law forbids managers and supervisors to participate in tip pools and pocket a portion of employees tips, Marc Pilotin, San Franciscos Regional Solicitor of Labor, said in a statement. Portlands Wage and Hour Division District Director Katherine Walum added that wage theft is a prominent issue for restaurant workers, who are some of the most vulnerable, low-wage workers in our community. Police make arrest after shelter-in-place in Lents neighborhood Eater Portland recently reported that McMenamins had also been accused of improperly distributing money. Officials said the Pacific Northwest food and hospitality chain withheld $800,000 from employees starting in mid-May 2019, and lasting at least through late October 2022. KOIN 6 has reached out to both businesses for comment. This story will be updated. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. Federal prosecutors are investigating threats to possible government witnesses in the confidential documents case against Donald Trump, according to court documents filed this week. On Wednesday, special counsel Jack Smith filed a motion to submit a sealed document that describes in some detail threats made against witnesses over social media and an ongoing federal investigation into the threats. The motion argued sharing all the details risks disrupting the investigation. Federal prosecutors filed their initial indictment in the case in June 2023, describing how Trump took classified documents home to his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida after leaving office in January 2021. Instead of leaving the documents at the White House, Trump brought them with him and stored them in unsecured locations including a bathtub and on a ballroom stage, later refusing to cooperate with investigators seeking their return. After Trump-appointed federal Judge Aileen Cannon rejected prosecutors request to keep details on the alleged threats sealed, Smith filed another motion Thursday arguing the details would reveal witness identities and statements they made to the FBI or the grand jury. Sharing those details would result in exposing them to significant and immediate risks of threats, intimidation, and harassment, as has already happened to witnesses, law enforcement agents, judicial officers, and Department of Justice employees whose identities have been disclosed in cases in which defendant Trump is involved, the filing argues. Smith stated the judge made a clear error in demanding he share unredacted documents. Smiths concern over unsealing the details about potential witnesses is warranted. Trump has dabbled in possible witness intimidation across the criminal cases hes currently facing. In his federal election interference case, Judge Tanya Chutkan issued a protective order and warned Trump last August against intimidating witnesses or leaking sensitive materials shared in discovery after he posted IF YOU GO AFTER ME, IM COMING AFTER YOU! Trump also tried to head off Georgias investigation into his alleged election interference. I am reading reports that failed former Lt. Governor of Georgia, Jeff Duncan, will be testifying before the Fulton County Grand Jury, he posted in August 2023. He shouldnt. I barely know him but he was, right from the beginning of this Witch Hunt, a nasty disaster for those looking into the Election Fraud that took place in Georgia. Previously, when Trumps 2016 campaign chair Paul Manafort was charged by federal prosecutors, special counsel Robert Mueller said Trumps public attacks on prosecutors and teases of a potential pardon were attempts to influence a jury and lobby Manafort not to cooperate. (Manafort served time for conspiracy, obstruction and financial crimes.) The filings are the latest in a back-and-forth between Smith and Trumps legal team over whether the discovery process entitles Trump to know more about the specifics of the FBIs investigation into his retention of classified documents after leaving the White House. Such details include the prosecutions questioning of witnesses about the FBIs Mar-a-Lago raid in August 2022, which missed a secret room hidden behind Trumps TV, ABC News reported. Trump argued Thursday night that Smith should drop the case. This would be a far bigger and better achievement than anything he has ever done, he posted to his Truth Social account. He pointed to a report released by special counsel Robert Hur earlier on Thursday that concluded no criminal charges are warranted against Joe Biden in an unrelated confidential documents investigation. If Special Counsel Jack Smith wants to do good for our Country, and help to unify it, he should drop all Litigation against Joe Bidens Political Opponent, ME, and let our Country HEAL, Trump wrote. More from Rolling Stone Best of Rolling Stone (KRON) A felon on probation was arrested on weapons charges in Millbrae on Wednesday while trying to barbecue in the street in strong winds, according to the San Mateo County Sheriffs Department. San Mateo County deputies responded at around 5:49 p.m. to a report of someone barbecuing in the street in the 400 block of Lincoln Circle in Millbrae. There were strong winds at the time, causing hot embers to fly from the grill. Thief in viral Emeryville Apple Store video arrested: police Arriving at the scene, officers made contact with the man, identified as Clinton Wayne Murray. Deputies also called Central County Fire, which came out and put out the barbecue, due to the fire risk from flying embers. An investigation revealed that Murray was on active probation in San Mateo County due to a prior drug conviction. This made him subject to search and seizure. Deputies subsequently searched Murrays residence, finding a firearm, ammunition and drug paraphernalia. Murray was arrested and taken to Maguire Correctional Facility. He is being held on $50,000 bail pending further legal proceedings, police said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. Lawmakers from Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico's coalition government voted on Feb. 8 to eliminate the office of the special prosecutor, tasked with investigating major crimes and corruption. Lawmakers of Ficos three-party coalition, who hold a parliamentary majority in the Slovak National Council, adopted the controversial legislation following widespread protests against the reforms. According to FT, the government's reforms are also set to weaken penalties for white-collar crime while reducing the timeframe within which they can be prosecuted. In response to the legislation, Slovakia's opposition President Zuzana Caputova called the political maneuver "inadmissible," adding that the reforms "irreparably violate the rights of the victims of crimes." Under Slovakia's constitution, the president can block the passage of a bill, however, the veto can be overturned through another majority vote in parliament. Fico was previously investigated by the prosecutor's office, although the charges against him were dropped in 2022. The European Union has been critical about Slovakia's move to eliminate the office. In response to the Slovakian government's reforms, the European Parliament voted overwhelmingly in favour of a motion that questioned "Slovakias ability to fight corruption and protect the EU budget should the reform of the criminal code proposed by the new government of Robert Fico be adopted." The EU has also threatened to launch legal proceedings if Fico's government went ahead with the legislation. In contrast with Fico's domestic legislation, the populist prime minister has also previously expressed his concern about corruption in Ukraine, considering it a potential stumbling block in Slovakia's continued support. In early November, the newly-appointed government rejected delivering a 40.3-million-euro ($43.2 million) military aid package for Ukraine that had been proposed by its predecessor. Fico has also said that Slovakia should prepare for "the end of the war in Ukraine and for the standardization of Slovak-Russian relations." Read also: Slovak PM Robert Fico rules out military aid for Ukraine Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. All lanes of Interstate 75 in Florida were shut down outside Naples on Friday afternoon after a plane with five people on board crashed onto the highway and struck a vehicle, the Florida Highway Patrol announced. The Collier County Sheriff Department confirmed that at least two people have died, but didnt specify if the casualties were people from the plane or the vehicle. Footage from the scene showed the plane, a Bombardier Challenger 600, engulfed in flames. The FAA said the plane crashed at 3:45 p.m. Plane crash on I-75 in Naples, Fl Video credit @JobaRobinson pic.twitter.com/cg4pgsUYWa Maria Ducato (@mariaducato) February 9, 2024 Online flight records showed the plane belonged to Hop-a-Jet, a private charter company based in Florida. NBC 2, a local news station in southwest Florida, reported that the plane lost an engine as it was headed for Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport and tried to make a landing in Naples, which is approximately 100 miles to its west. The plane crashed three miles from the runway. Robin King, the director of communications f0r the Naples Airport Authority, told multiple media outlets that the planes pilots radioed that theyd lost both engines. She said three people were able to escape from the plane. Nobody involved in the crash was immediately identified by authorities. Local 10 reported that the pilot was heard in an air traffic control recording saying hed lost both engines and was unable to make it to a runway. The plane had departed from the Ohio State University Executive Airport in Columbus, Ohio. The Florida Highway Patrol warned drivers that southbound lanes of the interstate may be closed for as long as 24 hours. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Meta is joining other social media companies, like Reddit, in removing third-party access to its platform as part of the latest update on its API policies. The API v19.0 policy, which was published last January, detailed that the platform will remove API access to Facebook Groups within 90 days, or by April 23 since announcement publication. Meta did not provide further information as to why it is deprecating the feature but said that "we're rolling out another change" that will enable groups to not need APIs anymore. According to Meta, the third-party extension was mainly used by developers to privately reply in Facebook Groups. It is worth noting that Facebook is not removing the private reply function on its platform. Also Read: Reddit to Start Charging Big Companies for API Access Due to AI Training Issues Developers Not Happy with Facebook Group Changes Despite Meta's promises to provide a better replacement to the API function on Facebook Groups, many affected developers are far from glad about the solution the company is offering, TechCrunch reported. Several developers have raised issues that the changes in the platform will have a "noticeable impact" on businesses, particularly those involved in account management and social sellers. The API has long been part of many social media businesses on Facebook to help automate information dissemination as well as marketing campaigns. Meta has yet to provide a clear definition of what the replacement to the extension will be but said the changes will not affect "most" Private Replies developers. Related Article: Meta Upends Facebook-Dependent Publications After Major Change Third-Party APIs, Extensions Face More Challenges in 2024 APIs and third-party extensions have been suffering from limited platform reach since 2023 as more websites discontinue support for the function. In addition to Reddit, Google Chrome has enforced new changes to its browser engine that will make it harder for extensions to operate, primarily those offering ad-remover features. Many platforms have started offering their own extensions and functions similar to the removed third-parties', albeit with a subscription price in comparison to the free feature in previous extensions. The last two women charged in a retail theft incident at Ulta Beauty have been sentenced to prison. HOWELL The last two women charged in a retail theft incident at Ulta Beauty have been sentenced to prison. Kari Williams, 28, and Laronda Chase, 26, were each sentenced to 6-20 years in the Michigan Department of Corrections on Thursday, Feb. 8, in Livingston County's 44th Circuit Court before Chief Judge Michael Hatty. Williams and Chase each received credit for four days served in jail. They must also pay roughly $9,200 in restitution. They were each charged with one count of conducting criminal enterprises, two counts of first-degree retail fraud, two counts of organized retail crime and one count of concealing stolen property less than $20,000. The incident took place Jan. 12, 2023, at Ulta Beauty in Green Oak Township. The municipalitys police department said five suspects entered the store and filled a bag with merchandise. One suspect fled on foot, while the others got in two separate vehicles and began to drive away. According to Michigan State Police, while a trooper was attempting to arrest the woman who fled on foot, the second vehicle drove directly at him. He fired his weapon, and the car was struck. There were no injuries. The vehicle stopped in the parking lot after colliding with the back of Mens Wearhouse. Williams and Chase were the last of the five to be charged and sentenced. Tirezah Scott was sentenced to 17-40 years in prison in December. Shanel Webster was sentenced to 25-60 years in prison on Jan. 4. Joya Williams was sentenced to 12-40 years in prison on Feb. 1. Livingston County Assistant Prosecutor Kollette Bordeaux said the defendants were involved in similar incidents at three Ingham County stores that day, though they haven't been charged. Patrick Nyenhuis, defense attorney for Kari Williams, said she was on her own when the incident occurred and was remorseful for actions. Nyenhuis hoped she could enter a program or boot camp. Williams apologized to the court, Ulta Beauty and the police officers involved. Hatty said the group wreaked havoc on shoppers and staff. He sentenced Williams to the bottom of the guidelines, adding he thinks she can change her behavior. I do believe you have potential for reformation, Hatty said. Subscribe: Get unlimited access to our local coverage Bordeaux said Chase conspired with her mother Tirezah Scott and the three other co-defendants to conduct the criminal enterprise. She said Livingston County needs to be protected from this type of behavior. Steven Dodge, defense attorney for Chase, asked Hatty to consider her lack of a felony record and that she was remorseful. Chase apologized to those involved, saying she will forever be mindful of the mistakes she made. Hatty said he must protect society and cannot allow this activity to go unpunished. Im hoping you can reform your life and move forward, Hatty told Chase. Contact reporter Evan Sasiela at esasiela@livingstondaily.com. Follow him on Twitter @SalsaEvan. This article originally appeared on Livingston Daily: Final defendants in Ulta Beauty incident sentenced to prison Finland approved its 22nd defense aid package to Ukraine worth around 190 million euros ($205 million), the Finnish Defense Ministry announced on Feb. 9. The Finnish president greenlighted the package on Feb. 9 based on the government's proposal. This brings the total military aid provided to Ukraine by the Nordic country to 1.8 billion euros ($1.94 billion). As with its previous aid packages, Helsinki kept most of the details about the content and delivery secret due to security reasons. The Finnish Defense Ministry revealed, however, that the tranche includes products that have been purchased from domestic industry with separate funding of 30 million euros ($32.3 million) set aside to support Ukraine. "Nationally and more broadly, we need new ways to support Ukraine in the long term. We are currently preparing a long-term plan for support to Ukraine," said Finnish Defense Minister Antti Hakkanen. "There is a lot of know-how in the domestic industry, and we are working in the defense administration to ensure that this know-how and capacity can be used more effectively in supporting Ukraine as well. One example of this is our domestic ammunition production." Finland also decided to participate in the artillery and demining collations, one of many allied initiatives launched under the Ukraine Defense Contact Group to support individual sectors of Ukraine's Armed Forces. Previously, Finland approved its 21st military aid package for Ukraine worth 106 million euros ($114 million) in December 2023. Read also: Finland extends border closure with Russia for 2 months Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. U.S. Supreme Court hears case on Trump's ballot eligibility Xinhua) 09:33, February 09, 2024 Photo taken on June 29, 2023 shows the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington, D.C., the United States. (Xinhua/Liu Jie) Analysts believe that the Supreme Court's ruling on Trump's appeal regarding his candidacy qualifications may influence the direction or even the outcome of this year's election. WASHINGTON, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday began to hear former President Donald Trump's eligibility case, with the decision poised to set guidelines nationwide. Early January, the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to take up whether Trump can be disqualified from appearing on Colorado's primary ballot after a ruling by the Colorado Supreme Court removed him from the state's 2024 presidential primary ballot, citing the U.S. Constitution's "insurrection clause." The Colorado ruling cited the Section 3 of the 14th Amendment to the Constitution, which prohibits individuals who have engaged in insurrection from holding public office. Trump's legal team is urging the justices to weigh several matters, such as whether the provision applies to Trump as a former president, whether he was involved in insurrection, and whether state and federal courts have the authority to enforce Section 3 without legislative action from Congress. Former U.S. President Donald Trump is seen in the courtroom during his civil fraud trial at New York State Supreme Court in New York, the United States, on Oct. 18, 2023. (Jeenah Moon/Pool via Xinhua) Additionally, they contend that the provision cannot be invoked to bar Trump from the ballot because Section 3 solely prohibits someone from holding office, not from running as a candidate or being elected. The U.S. Supreme Court is expected to expedite the review of Trump's appeal on his eligibility, with a decision likely to be announced a few days or weeks after the arguments. Highlighting his recent victories in the Iowa and New Hampshire primaries, the former president's lawyers cautioned the justices about the ramifications of disqualifying Trump, asserting that it would lead to disorder and confusion. Trump leads the Republican primary race, and in some simulations, he is even ahead against Democratic contenders, including the incumbent President Joe Biden. Analysts believe that the Supreme Court's ruling on Trump's appeal regarding his candidacy qualifications may influence the direction or even the outcome of this year's election. (Web editor: Cai Hairuo, Zhong Wenxing) (Photo : Pixabay/Michal Jarmoluk) Arm Holdings CEO Rene Haas celebrated Thursday as the chip design firm's stock experienced its most significant single-day gain. This surge followed the company's surpassing of Wall Street's earnings and revenue estimates and an optimistic forecast driven by increased demand for their services, particularly in artificial intelligence. Expansion into Data Centers and the Automotive Industry During an interview on FOX Business' "The Claman Countdown," Haas credited his company's success to strategies implemented years ago aimed to expand the smartphone market into data centers and the automotive industry, remarking Arm's efforts are paying off, and with the integration of AI, "the need for "compute" seems almost insatiable." Arm is a chip architect supplier of essential technology to companies like Apple and Nvidia. While initially focused on selling blueprints and other intellectual properties powering mobile phones, it has since successfully diversified its computing chips business. Haas highlighted that AI is now everywhere, which he believes is promising for Arm's growth. The CEO mentioned that Arm is attracting customers from various industries, with its technology now found in products like Teslas, Fords, Ring smart cameras, and LG appliances. He emphasized that Arm's technology is present in many unexpected places, noting that he can't think of any car company that doesn't use Arm's technology. Surging Arm Holdings' Shares Arm Holdings' shares jumped over 55% on Thursday, heading for their strongest day since their impressive market debut in September, driven by robust forecasts for its technology in designing chips for artificial intelligence features. The surge would push the market value of the British chip designer to over $100 billion as investors eagerly buy the stock as another means of AI investment. This rally marks a significant change from its initial struggles after going public in late 2023, when shares declined. On Wednesday, executives mentioned that customers increasingly adopted Arm-based central processors to complement Nvidia's chips for AI tasks in data centers. They stated it was working on new laptops and smartphones supporting chatbots and other AI features. READ ALSO: NVIDIA's Next Frontier, Vietnam Expansion on AI Revolution Arm's Technology Being Used as Central Processors Arm's technology isn't directly involved in AI tasks, but companies like Nvidia are opting for its central processing units to work alongside their AI-specific chips. Susannah Streeter, head of money and markets at Hargreaves Lansdown, mentioned that Arm benefits from the high demand for Nvidia's technology, especially its data center systems. Arm plays a crucial role in chipmaking by providing blueprints and other intellectual property for computing chips used in most mobile phones, including those made by Apple. Although its stock dropped by as much as 26% within a month of its September 14 debut, it has since surged by nearly 90%, reaching $120.80 on Thursday. Analyst Ben Bajarin from Creative Strategies mentioned that the market is gaining a clearer understanding of Arm's business model and how it aligns with major chip design trends in the coming years. Reuters previously stated that Nvidia, Arm, and Qualcomm are all looking to enter the laptop market to compete with Apple. In many cases, these chip companies are expected to use their technology for AI features but intend to license technology from Arm to finalize the chips. RELATED ARTICLE: Intel Expanding Chipmaker Factory, Promoting Economic Growth and Employment Opportunities in Remote Areas of Israel 2017 Jobs & Hire All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Florida cold case: Missing Tampa womans remains still not found 35 years later TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) Florida law enforcement officials are still searching for the remains of a Tampa native who disappeared from her Gainesville apartment 35 years ago. Tiffany Sessions is believed to have been abducted and murdered by Paul Rowles, a convicted murderer who died in prison in 2013 while serving time for a kidnapping and sexual battery case, according to a report from the Gainesville Sun. Zephyrhills man turns gun on himself during standoff after shooting at deputies: PCSO On the afternoon of Feb. 9, 1989, the 20-year-old University of Florida student told her roommate she was going for a walk. She was never seen again. Rowles was linked to Sessions disappearance by a cold case detective in 2013, according to the Gainesville Sun. Kevin Allen discovered a possible reference to Sessions while pouring through Rolwes notebook. 2/9/1989, the date Sessions was last seen, was written on the page. The notebook also contained mentions of two women he killed, including a student at Santa Fe Community College in Gainesville. Sessions disappearance is known for prompting the largest law enforcement search operation in the history of Florida. According to the Gainesville Sun, the Alachua County Sheriffs Office is still fielding potential leads to this day. Hillary Sessions, Tiffanys mother, hopes enduring interest in the case will help law enforcement track down her remains and finally bring closure to her family. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. A man in Florida was arrested after he confessed to using his company credit card to buy tens of thousands of dollars worth of lottery tickets, according to Pinellas County Court. Warren Alexander Johnson, 47, of Clearwater, was arrested Monday and charged with a scheme to defraud, authorities said. Johnson is in the custody of Pinellas County Sheriff's office, and no bond has been set. According to an affidavit obtained by USA TODAY, Johnson is a truck driver at a Florida paving company and was one of three people with access to the company's credit cards. In September 2023, the company's owner discovered several thousand dollars worth of fraudulent charges on one of the company's credit cards from Chase Bank, police said. The affidavit stated that the credit cards were only supposed to be used for work-related purposes. One of the credit cards was being used at several convenience stores for a total of $31,693.08, and police said the owner suspected Johnson because that specific card was assigned to him. Florida law allows the use of credit cards to purchase lottery tickets as long as the tickets cost less than $20. Police: Store manager recognized suspect Authorities reported that the owner confronted Johnson regarding the charges, and he confessed to committing fraud. He told the owner he purchased a "couple thousand dollars" of lottery tickets with the company card. There was no surveillance footage of Johnson making the purchases. However, a witness came forward. One of the store managers at a location that Johnson frequented recognized him and informed the police. The store manager mentioned that Johnson would arrive in a company truck and use a credit card to purchase scratch-off lottery tickets, according to the affidavit. According to authorities, Chase never reimbursed the business and is still at a financial loss. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Man accused of buying over $31K worth of lotto tickets with company card February is Career and Technical Education Month, and the State of Florida has been making some big investments in the field in recent years. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< Action News Jax spoke exclusively with Floridas Lieutenant Governor during her visit to a training program here in the Bold City Friday. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] Florida Lieutenant Governor Jeannette Nunez stopped in to award a $618,000 grant to the Jacksonville Plumbers and Pipefitters Joint Apprenticeship & Training Trust in Edgewood. The five-year apprenticeship program covers HVAC systems, plumbing, welding and pipefitting. Read: JEA announces the State of Florida released $5.7 million in federal grants It allows students like Meghan Nemeth to work in the field and learn their trade at the same time. Nemeth said after bouncing around jobs in retail and insurance, she quit her job on the spot when she learned about the program. I walked in and I still had my insurance clothes on, hes like, are you in the right spot? Im like I am exactly where I need to be, said Nemeth, who is now a fourth-year apprentice. Starting salaries in the fields covered under the program hover around $60,000 a year, and theres no shortage of demand for workers. Read: $5 million grant awarded to Jacksonville Sheriffs Office to hire more officers Right now, we cant meet the demand, said Kirk Barras, Training Director of Local 234 Plumbers & Pipefitters. Its why the State of Florida has invested so heavily in promoting training and apprenticeship programs like the one here in Jacksonville. The state has put up $6.8 billion over the past five years. We recognize there are multiple pathways for students. Success is often dictated by one being able to contribute to the economy, contribute to your own personal success, said Nunez. And that funding has resulted in more than five million students engaging in career and technical education coursework and 36 new apprenticeship programs since 2019. Read: Jacksonville Humane Society awarded grant to expand education outreach and bring pawsitive reading Its helped students like Nemeth pursue their passions, and make a decent paycheck while in the process. The years are going to pass while youre in college. You still might not figure that out. The years will pass here, but youll be making more money, said Nemeth. Barras noted the $618,000 grant awarded Friday will go a long way. Its about a quarter of the programs annual budget. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Nunez added Floridians can expect to see continued funding in the next state budget. 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. The U.S. Department of Justice says a man from Florida, already serving 10 years in prison for committing fraud back home, has pleaded guilty to stealing identities in southwest Georgia. According to federal officials, Damien D. Dennis, 44 of Middleburg, pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated identity theft on Feb. 7. The DOJ said Dennis was caught trading personal identification information with individuals on the dark web, as well as showing others how to get fraudulent bank loans. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Court documents show Dennis was pulled over for speeding in February 2020. He was driving with a suspended license and was arrested. Officers found eight drivers licenses belonging to real people living in seven states, a social security card, blank W-2 forms, blank check papers, badge makers, printers, bank ID cards, security laminates and business card protectors. Innocent peoples identities were stolen and used to create phony documents so other scam artists could commit all manner of theft and fraud, U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary said. Damien Dennis was running an ID theft scheme that went so far as to teach other individuals how to commit fraudincluding how to obtain bank loansusing other peoples stolen identities. Working alongside our law enforcement partners, our office is committed to holding fraudsters accountable and stopping these criminals from preying upon individuals and businesses. The DOJ said some of the items found in his car at the time were the tools used to commit fraud and identity theft. Officers also recovered cell phones, laptops and a USB drive. TRENDING STORIES: Dennis told officers he bought the identification documents from unknown people on the dark web and would use the information to create profiles to sell to others. He also admitted to using the equipment and documents found in his car to make counterfeit IDs, drivers licenses, social security cards, W-2 forms, lease agreements and entire fake profiles for customers who needed them for fraudulent uses. The U.S. Secret Service joined the investigation as well, learning that Dennis had extensive conversations by cell phone where he taught various unknown individuals how to use the fake profiles to request and obtain bank loans, according to the DOJ. This case is another example that clearly shows criminals are continuously looking for ways to steal from unwitting victims. In this case, victims were violated when Damien Dennis possessed their Personal Identifiable Information (PII) for the sole purpose of committing fraud, Resident Agent in Charge Clint Bush of the U.S. Secret Services Albany, Ga., Resident Office said. The United States Secret Service, along with our state, local and federal law enforcement partners, will continue to investigate, arrest and support the successful prosecution of the criminals who choose to commit this and other types of financial fraud in our community and around the nation. Dennis faces a mandatory minimum of two years in prison, which will be served consecutively to 12 years for his sentence in Florida, as well as three years on supervised release. Hell also have to pay a $250,000 fine. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: As each state goes back and forth on whether they're the best out of the 50, the reality is that each one has its own virtues and vices. To see which states give into their desires the most, WalletHub compared each state across 55 key indicators of immoral or illicit behavior. Although residents of every state have wonderful qualities, people across the nation have their own moral struggles, from violent outbursts and bullying to compulsive gambling, excessive lust and self-destructive consumption," WalletHub Analyst Cassandra Happe said about the study. "At the individual level, harmful behavior may only impact a few people, but when a higher share of a states population engages in these activities, it diminishes the overall quality of life. While the state at the top of the list might not surprise anything (hint: "Sin City" is found there), Florida wasn't too far behind. What makes a state sinful? To determine the most sinful states in America, WalletHub compared the 50 states across seven key dimensions: anger/hatred, jealousy, excesses/vices, greed, lust, vanity, and laziness. Experts further explain that they examined those dimensions using 55 relevant metrics, with a numerical value assigned to each metric. They graded it on a 100-point scale with a score of 100 representing the highest level of sinfulness. For example, in the anger and hatred section, researchers looked at the rates of violent crime and bullying, in addition to 13 other factors. As for greed, researchers searched how many casinos were in the area and every area's share of adults with gambling addictions. Researchers then used the data from each metric to calculate each citys weighted average and used that to rank the states from most to least sinful. Where does Florida land within the most sinful states? Florida placed fourth in WalletHub's ranking, seeing an index score of 50.62. Lust: 4 Vanity : 4 Jealousy: 5 Laziness : 19 Greed: 32 Anger and Hatred: 41 Excesses and vices: 42 What's the most sinful state? What are the top 10 most sinful states in the country? Source: WalletHub Nevada ranks as the most sinful state in America, which probably doesnt come as much of a surprise with Las Vegas housed within its borders. The study found that it was the top state for greed as it leads the nation in casinos, and it also has one of the largest gambling arrests per capita. "Nevada residents also have some anger issues that they vent online, as over 10% of internet comments written by people in the state are hostile, one of the highest rates in the nation," the study said. "In addition, people in the Silver State can be a bit self-centered while partaking in their various vices. Sadly, the state has the second-lowest volunteer rate in the country." As for the rest of most sinful states, here's who joins Nevada and Florida: Nevada - 60.47 Louisiana - 55.21 California - 54.94 Florida - 50.62 Tennessee - 50.35 South Carolina - 49.39 Texas - 48.24 Arizona - 47.33 Pennsylvania - 46.66 Delaware - 46.45 What Florida cities are considered the most sinful cities? Miami and Orlando are two of the Sunshine State's most sinful cities, according to a November WalletHub. South Florida's Miami placed ninth on the list, seeing separate scores in each category such as: Lust: 7 Jealousy: 10 Greed: 78 Anger and Hatred: 114 Excesses and vices: 157 Overall score in sinful behaviors: 53.01 As for Central Florida's Orlando, it nabbed the 12th spot on the list with these statistics: Lust: 17 Jealousy: 7 Greed: 162 Anger and Hatred: 7 Excesses and vices: 104 Overall score in sinful behaviors: 51.24 WalletHub asked experts: What makes some states more sinful than others? How much of these behaviors can be attributed to our state? Are Floridians really more likely to be jealous and vain compared to residents in a state like West Virginia or Iowa? Andrew Burnstine, associate professor at Lynn University's College of Business and Management, told WalletHub that social sin resides within a group or a community of people. "It exists within any structure in society that oppresses human beings, violates human dignity, stifles freedom, and/or imposes great inequity. The only way we can recognize these sinful structures is if we step outside our own world and consider the world from another person's perspective," he said. Yuliya Zabyelina, associate professor at the University of Alabama's Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice, noted the term "sinful" is often rooted in religious or moral beliefs and applying it to U.S. states involves assessing complex and multifaceted factors. "What may be considered a 'sin' in one culture might be perfectly acceptable in another. One cannot assume there exists a universal standard for 'sinfulness,'" Zabyelina wrote. "Applying a singular standard based on culture assumes a hierarchy of cultural values, which can be ethnocentric. It fails to appreciate the diversity of human experiences and perspectives, and it may perpetuate cultural biases." She ended her note by adding that laws vary widely between U.S. states, saying what is legal in one jurisdiction may be illegal in another. This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Florida ranks 4th for most sinful US states list. Here's why (Photo : Unsplash/Jessica Da Rosa) When a coworker approaches, you're at your desk, ready to work. They chat with you for 20 minutes, and afterward, you feel too tired to focus on tasks effectively. Then you've probably fallen prey to an energy vampire. What are Energy Vampires? Energy vampires are egotistical, manipulative, or overly talkative people who drain your energy and leave you emotionally exhausted. They often thrive in office environments, so employees should be careful when returning to in-person work, advises Tessa West, a psychology professor at New York University. Who is the Vampire's Favorite Prey? Introverts and optimistic individuals are often prime targets for energy vampires, who believe most people are good and won't harm them. According to West, energy vampires can sense weaknesses and target conflict-averse individuals, easily influenced and uncomfortable confronting them. Energy vampires steer clear of coworkers with strong social networks because those colleagues serve as metaphorical bodyguards. READ ALSO: Can Employers Step in When Gossip Crosses the Line? Here's How Signs that Your Colleague may be An "Energy Vampire" "Energy vampire" is a pop culture term to describe someone who is exhausting and draining. However, California-based clinical psychologist Ryan Howes noted that there's no official diagnosis or specific treatment for energy vampires nor class on energy vampirism taught in school. Still, many of us have encountered them personally and professionally. Dealing with energy vampires at work can be challenging, but there are effective strategies to overcome them and reclaim your time and energy: 1. Observe How They Make You Feel Energy vampires don't just exhaust their victims in one way; they use various tactics to drain people's physical and mental energies. According to Howes, they can come in different forms, such as those who ask too many personal questions, always have a negative attitude, or tell endless stories without a clear point. Interactions with energy vampires are more intense, which can even lead to feelings of anger, frustration, or complete depletion. 2. They Never Want a Solution to Their Complaints Ranger mentioned that energy vampires might also be "help-rejecting complainers." They tend to talk about their problems but reject any solutions or help offered. According to Ranger, they always find reasons solutions won't work, creating a frustrating cycle. 3. They tend to Overshare and Consistently have One-Sided Conversations Ranger explained that energy vampires are often deeply lonely individuals who lack positive reciprocal connections in their lives, which is why they frequently discuss their problems without realizing how they affect others. According to Ranger, energy vampires typically don't reciprocate in conversations. They rarely ask about you or show much interest in your well-being, leaving you feeling used up. Ranger explained that their loneliness contributes to this behavior, and they lack awareness because their self-focused conversations feel normal to them. How to Set Boundaries with an Energy Vampire? Consider how much you talk compared to how much your colleague shares if you're worried that you might be an energy vampire. Ranger suggests observing your conversation partner's body language and tone. If they consistently respond with one-word answers and show disinterest, it may indicate they're not truly listening to you. Dealing with an energy vampire at work has a silver lining: you have a clear excuse to end a conversation. Howes says it's simple and understandable to set the boundary by saying, "I need to get back to work." to get the message across to an energy vampire. RELATED ARTICLE: Physically Present but Not Engaged? Here's What You Should Know about "Resenteeism" 2017 Jobs & Hire All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Hayley Milks was in a Miami hospital room, high on morphine and down one kidney, when she met her future husband. He sat by her bedside and thanked her. Her organ donation had just saved his brothers life. Hayley didnt know they would bond over being single parents her raising four girls, him the father of three or their messy divorces. She had no idea they would move to Valrico in a few years or open a shop together in Plant City. That her act of selflessness was about to be rewarded in a big way. David needs a kidney Lets start this medical meet-cute at the beginning. In early January 2019, Hayley was recovering from leaving a toxic marriage while running a yoga studio in Miami. It was not all oms and meditation, said Hayley, now 41. She was scrolling Instagram one night when she came across a post shared by a friend. Ive had enough, the post started. David is my fiance. He received a kidney and pancreas transplant in 2012 due to damage caused by his type 1 diabetes. However, three years ago, his body began to reject his new kidney. Since then, hes been receiving dialysis three days a week, each time feeling weaker and more affected ... If ANYONE is willing to be a live donor, please message me. David Montoto had Type O-positive blood. So did Hayley. She reached out to learn more that night. David and his fiancee, Melissa, took her to dinner. They brought a Tiffany necklace with a kidney bean on it, along with a note thanking her for even considering the operation. Hayley didnt hesitate after she met them. She took a test to see if her kidney was eligible for donation. David and Hayley were a 98.8% genetic match. Her parents were confused. They didnt understand why, when Hayley had four children, she didnt save her kidneys in case something happened to one of them. But Hayley had a different blood type from her kids. I told my parents, Part of the way that you guys raised me was if you have something and youre not using it, then you should share, she said. And my dad was like, Yeah, but we didnt mean organs. Hayley sold her yoga studio in May 2019 and started to prepare for the donation. She gave 70 vials of blood for tests, got iron infusions three times a week for her anemia, took a psych exam and underwent numerous scans. By July, it was time for surgery. The person that donates always has a harder recovery because theyre taking a perfectly healthy person and cutting them open, Hayley said. So my recovery was worse than any childbirth ... and Ive had four kids! The next day, Davids brother walked into her room. Like a fairy tale William Montoto is 6 feet, 5 inches tall, with a thick beard and a sweet smile. In the haze of her recovery, it was his height that Hayley noticed first. She tried to stand and greet him, forgetting that shed just had a major surgery. He rushed to her bed and shook her hand. William sat down and started talking. They connected over raising kids and being divorced and loving musicians like Gregory Alan Isakov. Its like the cogs of a watch, said William, now 40. Theyre just automatically moving together and fitting perfectly, and you dont know how it started or when it began. Two hours passed. Its funny because you watch these movies and its like, love at first sight and everything. Sound fades away behind you and all of that stuff. It sounds like a fairy tale thing, but for me, thats exactly what it was, William said. I didnt even remember that my sister was sitting right next to me for that time. And she tried to nudge me with her elbow, like, Hey, are you gonna go see your brother? I was like, Oh, yeah. Thats what I came here for. Finally, William went to check on his brother. David could tell something was up. He was like, Oh, man, that girl Hayley is really nice, he said. But it wasnt like, really nice to donate a kidney. It more like like, Shes very attractive. The whole time the brothers were together, William was thinking of reasons to justify visiting Hayley again. She was on the same page. I told my nurse, Get me out of this bed, get me showered, she said. If this guy comes back, I want to look decent. She had makeup on by the time William popped his head back into the room. Hey, do you know if they validate parking? he asked. How the fk should I know? she said. I just gave up this kidney. They talked for another 1 hours, until Hayleys dad and two of her daughters came by. If it were up to me, I would have never left her hospital room, William said. Ever since that day, Ive never wanted to be apart from her. Partners in love and business William messaged Hayley on Instagram a few days later. He cracked a joke about soup a callback to their first conversation and offered to buy school supplies for her girls. I was not expecting that at all, Hayley said. I was just like, Well, now I have this big extended family. I was so grateful for that because I only have my parents and, of course, my kids. ... I said to him, Oh, this is so cool. Because now I feel like I have all these brothers and a new sister. He messaged back: I hope you dont look at me as a brother. David was delighted when he heard Hayley and William had started dating. Someone who does that is very selfless and must have a kind heart, he said. You dont just do that if you dont have a bunch of kind qualities. But David did warn his brother: No matter what happens with you guys, Hayleys always going to be in my life, he said. She did something for me that nobody else would do. And Im going to be eternally grateful for as long as Im here. When coronavirus came to Florida, William lost his job as a banquet manager for The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne. He got a job with UPS, and then FedEx recruited him in 2021. He had to move to the Tampa Bay area. Hayley followed as soon as her girls were done with the school year and started making jewelry in Valrico that summer. She began selling it at local markets under the name BeadnikRow. I cannot even write my name straight. Cannot draw. I hate cooking and baking, she said. But for whatever reason, jewelry comes naturally for me. Through vending Tampa Bay Markets events and Shopapalooza, she made enough money to give her kids horseback riding lessons and take them on vacations. Without those events, we wouldnt be where we are today, William said. William quit his job. Inspired by Hayleys success, he started a smoothie and all-natural beverage company, CocoMos. At the end of 2023, the two opened their own brick-and-mortar shop in Plant City. Called CocoRow, it combines her one-of-a-kind pieces and his fresh fruit drinks. The couple got engaged in Key West in 2022 and were married at a courthouse the following spring. Theyll finally have a wedding celebration this summer with their families. Between seven kids and their businesses, life has been busy. But their favorite moments together are the simple ones. Well walk to the restaurant, talking about random things, William said. Well laugh about something that the kids did or will lay in bed watching a show. ... We can be in the same room together and not say a single word and completely be happy because we are together. As Hayley puts it: My life completely changed just because I decided to donate a kidney. Learn more How to shop: To find Hayley Milks handmade jewelry, follow BeadnikRow at instagram.com/beadnikrow. To find William Montotos all-natural smoothies and fresh fruit creations, follow CocoMos at instagram.com/_cocomos_. Both businesses appear at local markets and events throughout the year. Hayley and Williams new brick-and-mortar store CocoRow, which features both jewelry and drinks, is located at 103 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. in Plant City. It is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. Follow facebook.com/CocoRowPC and instagram.com/cocorowpc. How to be a donor: More than 90,000 people in the United States are waiting for a kidney donation, according to the National Kidney Registry. To learn more about becoming a live kidney donor and other ways to help, visit kidneyregistry.org. Contained in the Governments plans for dentistry is a proposal to expand fluoridation in the water supply. Ministers took the decision to order mandatory schemes in the Health and Care Act 2022 with little in the way of public or parliamentary debate. Previously, it was the responsibility of local authorities. Since this involves the mass medication of the water supply, the lack of a wider discussion is surprising. Many people think that their water is already fluoridated when in fact just 10 per cent of the population is covered by such schemes, predominantly in the Midlands and the North East. There have been no new additions since the 1980s. In its recovery plan for NHS dental care announced this week, the Government said that a water fluoridation programme would be rolled out, expanding first across parts of the North East not yet covered. This would encompass a further 1.6 million people. Ministers and clinicians are adamant that, after 70 years of fluoridation in some parts of the country, the evidence is strong that the medication is safe. It is less clear that these schemes have markedly improved dental health. There is always a danger of perpetuating conspiracy theories but, when it comes to putting substances into the water, however benign the Government might argue they are, the public should be fully involved in the decision. Victoria Atkins, the Health Secretary, told MPs there will be consultations, but ministers reserve the right to override objections. If the Government wants to expand fluoridation then it should be certain that it has the public onside. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. New footage of a confrontation last month between New York Police Department officers and a group of migrants in Times Square appears to contradict the story that law enforcement and conservative news outlets have been hammering for days. Outlets like the New York Postand Fox News have reported that several men asylum-seeking thugs and punks, in New York Post parlance picked a fight with a pair of NYPD officers in midtown Manhattan, sharing video stills as apparent proof. The officers had been telling the migrants to move along because they were blocking the sidewalk for pedestrians. Footage released after a press conference Thursday, however, shows that the sidewalk was not blocked and pedestrians were able to walk by. Law enforcement said that a man in a yellow jacket became verbally aggressive and did not comply with the officers request, and the fight devolved from there. But the video footage appears to show the man in the yellow jacket, who was pushing a baby stroller, start moving away before being confronted by one of the NYPD officers. The man, later identified as Yohenry Brito, is grabbed by the arm and shoved against a wall. The local news blog Hell Gate was first to report on the discrepancies. Body-camera footage leading up to the fight shows a group of men singing along to a song in Spanish as they move. Brito can be heard saying that one of the officers looked like Ugly Betty, the TV character played by America Ferrera, according to Hell Gate. At Thursdays press conference, NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny summarized the start of the incident by saying that a large group of these males, Mr. Brito included, are standing in front of the shelter and theyre blocking 42nd Street, forcing people to walk around them. Officers respond, the lieutenant and the police officer in uniform. The crowd is given direction to please disperse, that theyre blocking the sidewalk, Kenny went on. Everybody disperses except for Mr. Brito. He turned around and got confrontational with the police officers. He refused the lawful order. They attempted to place him under arrest, and the melee begins with the officers trying to take Mr. Brito into custody, and the next thing you know theyre being attacked by 13 other people. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg said that Brito was quite literally at the center of this assault, which sickened him. But the footage appears to show the men following orders until one of the officers yanks a member of the group away. Seven of the migrants have been charged for their alleged roles in the fight that subsequently broke out. Some are accused of physically grabbing or kicking the officers, while others are accused of acting as accomplices. The NYPD said that it is still searching for some of the other people in the video footage. For months, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) has been transporting migrants to metropolitan areas around the country, including New York, which has struggled to keep pace with basic needs of those arriving. The New York Times reported that Abbotts campaign accounts for only a fraction of New Yorks migrants; others arrive of their own accord or have asked to be transported to the city. Mayor Eric Adams (D) has alleged that migrants are destroying New York City, leading to a spike in property theft and destruction, even though crime statistics show a largely stagnant crime rate, per the Times. When it comes to parallel parking, you're on your own now. Ford Motor Co. announced this week during the 2023 earnings call the automaker is reviewing what customers like and actually use to determine which features on vehicles may be excessive or unnecessary. Say goodbye to the driver-assist parallel parking feature. "Very, very few people are using it. So we can remove that feature. It's about $60 per vehicle,another $10 million per year (in savings)," Kumar Ghalhotra, Ford chief operating officer, said Tuesday in an effort to illustrate how Ford is making little changes for big savings. Kumar Galhotra, president of Ford Blue, talks with John McElroy, host of "Autoline After Hours" webcast and podcast, prior to the Capital Markets Day at the Ford Experience Center on May 22, 2023. Ford studies consumer behavior with data provided by vehicles connected to its wireless network. "Connected vehicle data here is very important because it helps us see what we're providing, whether the customers are using it or not," Galhotra said. Will anybody notice? For example, the 2024 Explorer offers the active park assist feature as an option for a one-time cost of $355, Ford spokesman Alan Hall told the Free Press on Thursday. But the 2025 Explorer will not have it available, he said. The 2025 Ford Explorer ST with a 2.3-liter turbocharged engine at Ford World Headquarters in Dearborn on Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024. The feature comes as an option for some vehicles and standard as part of a package on certain high-end versions, and no one will miss it, Ford dealers told the Free Press. Here's their reaction: "My kids use it when theyre driving my car. Most people my age and older cant trust it. This has been an available option going back 10 or 12 years now. Each generation gets a little different. Sometimes its hold the button, take your hands off the wheel. Sometimes hold onto the wheel. Theres never been any consistency to it and nobody ever learned to trust it. This decision doesnt hurt anything. Nobody is losing sleep over it," said Chad Wilson, general manager of Wilson Ford in Saginaw and Midland Ford. "Hmm. Ive never used it on any car Ive had. I remember showing somebody how it worked one time. Honestly, I dont think anybodys going to notice. They have to do things to stay competitive ... the tweaks theyre making, as long as Ford continues to build cars and trucks people want, Im all about it," said Jeff King, vice president and general manager at Bozard Ford Lincoln in St. Augustine, Florida. "If the public doesnt utilize some of these features, weve got to find a way to get some of these prices down. We need to pass those savings along to the consumer," said Thad Szott of Szott Auto Group, which sells Ford, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram and Toyota vehicles in White Lake, Highland Township, Holly, Waterford and New Hudson. Thad Szott takes a break from selling cars for Szott Auto Group in Holly to fish on Otsego Lake in Gaylord, Michigan, with his dog Nicki on Saturday, Aug. 22, 2020. He sees more and more customers shopping for vehicles to carry dogs. The Ford website says active park assist "helps take the anxiety out of parallel parking" and just requires drivers to shift, accelerate and brake while the system does the steering. The steering wheel moves back and forth on its own. Ford explains the decision "We are always evaluating our vehicles to make sure were giving customers more of what they love and less of what they dont," Ford said in a statement issued after the earnings call. "Connected vehicle data, that our customers opt-in to share with us, helps us understand this and, after evaluating the data for Active Park Assist across our vehicle lines, we found the overwhelming majority of customers arent using Active Park Assist in the way it is currently offered. As a result, at this time were going to focus resources on developing and improving other features." Also read: Old Ford truck led to Tracy Chapman, Luke Combs emotional 'Fast Car' Grammy performance A good place to start Analysts applauded the decision. "Self parking, in many cases, is difficult to use. Its not as simple as it shows up in commercials," said Sam Fiorani, vice president of global vehicle forecasting for AutoForecast Solutions, speaking from personal experience. "The setup is not as simple as turning on a turn signal or changing a radio station. It becomes more of a hassle to figure out how to use it than just pulling into a parking space. Very few people will miss the feature. It's a good place to start. It's low-hanging fruit." Also read: Ford execs cut their own performance bonuses after weak 2022 earnings Michelle Krebs, executive analyst at Cox Automotive, said parallel parking assist is not worth the $10 million that Ford will save with the cut. "I dont think its a feature that many people are familiar with or opt for." But that's not all In addition to cutting parallel parking assist, Galhotra said Ford found millions more in savings by replacing a vehicle part that consumers rarely see. "In one of our vehicle lines, we were using certain aero shields for fuel economy," he said this week. "... The team came up with a different way of delivering the same aero and save $40 per vehicle. So that's equivalent to about $10 million per year." Ford CEO Jim Farley said during the call that his team is committed to making more cuts in ways that don't disrupt the customer experience. Contact Phoebe Wall Howard: 313-618-1034 or phoward@freepress.com. Follow her on X at @phoebesaid This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Ford to cut parallel parking feature in vehicles, save $10M A four-legged creature perched on a branch in the depths of a forest in Peru. He tilted his head up, his red-streaked eyes toward the sky, and began his distinct advertising call. Thats when researchers in the forest heard him. Scientists were exploring the Western Amazonia region in the Requena Province of Peru, searching for frogs, according to a study published Feb. 7 in the journal Zootaxa. After sampling two areas, researchers found 14 specimens that could not be identified as an existing species. Thats because the frogs belong to a new species: Scinax ushiniauae. Specimens were found perched on vegetation near ponds, scientists said. Discover more new species Thousands of new species are found each year. Here are three of our most eye-catching stories from the past week. 2-foot-long creature with yellow eyes found on tree in China 'Highly venomous' mountain creature found lurking in Thailand 'Spiky 'blue-headed' creature found sleeping in forest of Peru The new species belong to a group of frog species, Scinax cruentomma, researchers said. They were distinguished from other species by their small size, skin and eye color patters, and their distinct advertisement call. Scientists examined one female and 13 males belonging to the new species. The male creatures ranged in size from about 0.8 inches to about 0.9 inches. The female specimen measured about 1 inch long. Photos show the small, bright-eyed creatures. Researchers said the frogs have red-streaked eyes with a red ring around their pupil. The frogs have golden light brown rough skin on their backs with scattered black or dark brown blotches of different sizes, according to experts. The sides of their bodies are light yellow and have a brown irregular line. Researchers said the frogs have light green limbs and an immaculate white abdomen. Their bones are bluish green. The creatures have silvery bronze irises with a distinctive horizontal red streak and a red border around their pupil, scientists said. The frogs have bluish green bones, experts said. Experts found the frogs in two forest environments, both with clay and white-sand soil. Male specimens were found perched on vegetation near ponds and vocalizing, according to researchers. Their advertising call consists of a single pulsed note followed by one to three pulses. The Requena Province is in northeast Peru, bordering Brazil. Large metallic creature thought extinct for 100 years rediscovered on island Pregnant odorous creature seen on branch above stream. Its a new cryptic species Pointy-toothed sea creature a rare catch turns out to be a new species in India In fairly short order, the U.S. Supreme Court will rule on whether Colorado can keep former president and current criminal defendant Donald Trump off the ballot, with all signs pointing to the justices ruling in favor of the disreputable man in question. Im OK with that. Personally, Id rather the American public have the chance to reject again one of the most destructive political figures of my lifetime. I dont want this person knocked out on what some would undoubtedly claim is a judicial technicality. I want him cleanly defeated by voters for a second time, and I say that not as a liberal (which I am) or as a huge advocate for President Joe Biden (which Im not), but as an American truly, deeply worried about the future of our democracy. Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump speaks at a campaign event Saturday, Jan. 27, 2024, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher) ORG XMIT: NYOTK Many crucial issues are at stake in this years presidential election. But for me, the issue that matters most is making sure Trump loses and goes away, taking his ruinous MAGA movement with him. I watched the Jan. 6 insurrection unfold, so I know what Trump did At the heart of the Supreme Court ballot case is whether Trump betrayed his oath to the Constitution by engaging in insurrection, thus barring him from office under the 14th Amendment. A state attorney speaks to members of the press outside the United States Supreme Court on Feb. 8, 2024, after the court reviewed a ruling by a Colorado court that barred former President Donald Trump from appearing on the states Republican primary ballot due to his role in the Jan. 6, 2021 attacks on the U.S. Capitol. Like most Americans, I watched Trump plant the seeds of revolt and then foment an insurrection in real time on Jan. 6, 2021. And Ive watched him every day since refuse to acknowledge the results of a free and fair election and refuse to take responsibility for an attack on the U.S. Capitol that left hundreds injured, including more than 140 police officers, and led to a number of deaths. Ive watched him coddle the insurrectionists now rightly serving prison time.I've heard former Vice President Mike Pence say that Trump's "reckless words endangered my family and everyone at the Capitol that day, and I know history will hold Donald Trump accountable. More than 90 felony charges, grifting and sexual abuse should disqualify Trump Ive watched Trump get indicted on more than 90 state and felony counts. Ive watched a federal judge clarify that a jurys finding that Trump was liable for sexual assault against writer E. Jean Carroll met the broadly accepted definition of rape. Trump's court problems: Trump thought the courts were safe bet against election denial charges. Now? Not so much. Ive watched Trump lie with feverish abandon, over and over and over again, about matters large and small. Ive watched him corrupt the minds of a sizable swath of Americans and manipulate them into an embarrassingly slavish cult of personality, all while mercilessly fleecing them to enrich himself and cover his myriad legal bills. The only way to stop Trump is to educate others, and vote So my suggestion to those awaiting the Supreme Courts ruling on Trumps ballot eligibility is this: Ignore it. It will be what it will be. Assume that at the end of the day, all that matters is your vote. If you dont want Trump to be president again whether its because youre a Democrat, a Biden supporter, a concerned independent or a disaffected conservative your focus should be solely on helping others understand exactly how dangerous Trump is, as a candidate and as a person. Valarie Walker of New York City raises her sign as protestors gather outside the United States Supreme Court as the court reviews a ruling by a Colorado court that barred former President Donald Trump from appearing on the states Republican primary ballot due to his role in the Jan. 6, 2021 attacks on the U.S. Capitol. Shouldnt the very fact that Supreme Court justices are having to decide whether hes qualified to be on the ballot because of an insurrection be disqualifying? Dont we deserve a president who gets a definitive answer of No! to the question, Did he ever conspire to overturn the results of a free and fair election? Trump's trials and hearings are important, but focus on what matters most For voters who dont pay attention to the near-constant stream of Trumpian blather and legal developments, the primary knock on Biden is his age, which is a whopping three years more than Trumps. MAGA at the border: Goofy 'God's Army' convoy on Texas border shows Trump's MAGA movement is just one long con Thats fine, but lets dispense with any attempts to treat the two candidates as equally flawed. If you know the truth about Trump, there's simply no comparison, and it behooves you to share that, through word of mouth and links to legitimate news sources and court documents. Dont worry about the machinations of Trumps multifarious trials and cases before courts high, low or otherwise. Forget about end-arounds. Focus on the surest ways to defeat Trump and end this era of cultish political bullying and gaslighting: voting, and encouraging others to pay attention and vote. Follow USA TODAY columnist Rex Huppke on X, formerly Twitter, @RexHuppke and Facebook facebook.com/RexIsAJerk You can read diverse opinions from our Board of Contributors and other writers on the Opinion front page, on Twitter @usatodayopinion and in our daily Opinion newsletter. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Supreme Court will likely keep Trump on 2024 ballot. It's a good thing Former Arizona prisons chief Charles Ryan was sentenced to two years of supervised probation on Friday in Maricopa County Superior Court on charges stemming from an armed standoff with police at his Tempe residence in 2022. Ryan had pleaded no contest to a disorderly conduct charge. Judge Geoffrey Fish designated his crime as a felony. As a result of the felony conviction, Ryan loses the right to possess firearms and the right to vote. His voting rights can be restored after the successful completion of the probation period. The judge also ordered Ryan to pay a restitution reimbursement of $8,500 for Tempe police investigation costs. Addressing Fish in court on Friday, Ryan said he had apologized to his family, friends, neighbors and the Tempe Police Department for his actions. "I fully realize the errors of my way," Ryan said, "and I'm ashamed and embarrassed about my behavior." Ryan's wife told police the night of the incident that her husband drank "half of a large bottle of tequila" before she called them for assistance, fearing he had harmed himself. In court on Friday, Ryan said he had been participating in AA groups daily and had completed more than 700 meetings. Ryan said he had been alcohol free for 25 months and would remain so for the rest of his life. The judge acknowledged the steps Ryan had taken since the standoff occurred. Fish said he took into account mitigating factors such as Ryan's "long service to the community," including his time as Arizona's prison director, as well as his work as a private contractor as a correctional adviser to the Iraqi prison system, including the infamous Abu Ghraib prison facility. But Fish said letters from victims, including two detectives who worked for the Tempe Police Department, had weighed heavy on him. "This court sees, daily, crimes involving guns with all sorts of outcomes, and the court feels there are certain crimes in which a designation is appropriate," Fish said in explaining his decision to designate the disorderly conduct charge as a felony. Fish ordered Ryan to participate in a mental health evaluation and to follow any recommended treatment. 'He's got a gun!' Seven homes surrounding Ryan's residence were evacuated during the January 2022 standoff. A tactical armored vehicle, SWAT team, negotiators and robot were used by police. Officers who responded said they feared for their lives after Ryan pointed a handgun at them and refused to drop the weapon. Body camera footage released by Tempe Police contains officers saying, "He's got a gun" and "He was pointing it at us." These statements are reflected in police reports from the incident. Ryan was finally coaxed out of the home and taken to a hospital for treatment of a self-inflicted wound and an injury sustained when Tempe police shot him with a less-lethal bean bag round, police said. He was never jailed. Public defenders reacting to the way Ryan was handled said there was a massive disparity compared with the way police have treated their clients in similar situations. A grand jury indicted Ryan in April 2022 on two felony charges disorderly conduct involving weapons and unlawful discharge of a weapon after officials said he pointed his gun at police during the hourslong standoff. In 2023, Ryan agreed to a plea deal, pleading no contest to a disorderly conduct charge. The prosecution policies of the Maricopa County Attorney's Office require division chief approval "in any case where the defendant has pointed or discharged a firearm at a peace officer who was acting in the peace officers official capacity." County Attorney Rachel Mitchell did not immediately respond to a request for comment about the sentencing. Her office said it would respond next week. Rob Ferraro, president of Tempe Officers Association, said in a statement before the sentencing that the group would "leave it to the criminal justice system to adjudicate this case as it sees fit." "This incident serves as a perfect example of the professionalism of the men and women on the frontlines of the Tempe Police Department," Ferraro said. "This had the potential to be a volatile encounter, like many of the 135,000 calls for service our officers respond to every year. Fortunately, we responded in a professional, appropriate manner to this emergency, and we defused a situation that could have ended in a far different outcome. We're relieved no officers were injured." Ryan's tenure as the head of the Department of Corrections included a finding of civil contempt of court for poor health care conditions in prisons, an execution in 2014 that lasted nearly two hours and a failed locking system that allowed incarcerated people to open their cell doors and attack staff.Have a news tip? Reach the reporter at jjenkins@arizonarepublic.com or 812-243-5582. Follow him on X: @JimmyJenkins. Support local journalism. Subscribe to azcentral.com today. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Ex-Arizona prisons chief Charles Ryan gets probation in armed standoff With concerns about the quality of service by its private ambulance provider, the city of Pflugerville has turned to a familiar face: former Austin Police Chief Joe Chacon. In his new role as the city's director of emergency services, Chacon will oversee the private ambulance company, Allegiance Mobile Health, that has provided EMS services to Pflugerville since July 2022. He also is charged with helping the city improve its emergency planning. Pflugerville has had three ambulance service providers in the past three years, with council members citing issues with costs and response times. Last year, a man's death was blamed on inadequate care from a medic with Allegiance, whose contract with the city expires June 30. Former Austin Police Chief Joe Chacon has been named Pflugerville's director of emergency services. He announced his resignation from the Austin Police Department in August. Chacon said the city is looking into that contract as part of its oversight to ensure Allegiance is meeting its thresholds, including good patient outcomes and quality of service. He said the city has not decided whether or not to extend the contract and is assessing whether the services Allegiance provides are working. In helping Pflugerville improve its emergency management, Chacon said he will work to develop policy and programs so the city has the best framework and infrastructure to be prepared for disasters. He said the city's winter storm response has been great, but that there is always room for improvement. "(My role is to ensure) that we are in prevention mode," Chacon said. "So that we get it through successfully and that we have response and recovery afterwards so that we can help our community to be resilient." Chacon who has lived in Pflugerville for 25 years, even while serving as the police chief in Austin took on his new role Dec. 18. Because he does not manage a department, his approval did not require City Council approval, but all the council members were aware of his selection, said city spokesperson Cassie Balderas. She said Chacon's experience and expertise made him a perfect fit for the job. "Joseph Chacon was selected for this role based on his extensive background, experience and familiarity with the community's needs," she said. Joe Chacon Chacon, 55, said he was hired on an at-will basis, meaning his employment will be based on performance and not a contract. He will make $125,000, according to city officials. Having lived in Pflugerville for 25 years, Chacon said he already knows the community, understands its values and has a bit more credibility than someone who is not from the area. "Because I've been a contributing member for so long, that helps me as director of emergency services when I'm shaping policy, when I'm building programs," he said. On Sept. 12, the City Council had approved an agreement with the city of Austin to supervise Allegiance, but that agreement was not executed because of the hiring of Chacon, Balderas said. The call for oversight of the ambulance service came after an autopsy report, acquired by the Statesman, said a paramedic from Allegiance caused the death of a 42-year-old man in January 2023. The report said the man received a cricothyroidotomy, an incision through the skin to open an airway, that he did not need. The report also said that after the man received two doses of the nerve-blocking agent midazolam intranasally, he could have only survived if an airway was established. When one was not established, it compromised his heart and led to his death. More: Autopsy report: Private ambulance company paramedic responsible for Pflugerville man's death While he has yet to host any community forums or to seek community input on EMS in the city or its emergency response, Chacon said that is on his to-do list. He said he has talked to Allegiance representatives. "I am very committed to community involvement and community engagement," Chacon said. "I want to have that same kind of relationship with the community here in Pflugerville. Being able to hear what they'd like to see and communicate that back to the city's manager's office, to our City Council, so that they are working with all the information that there is and they're making the best decision possible based on that information." Chacon served in the Austin Police Department for more than 25 years and became chief in April 2021. During his tenure as chief, the department saw an unprecedented level of officers depart, prompting a partnership with the Texas Department of Public Safety for its troopers to help patrol parts of the city. Chacon called the program a success, saying violent crime had dropped 25% from the weekly average, but it sparked community backlash amid data showing most citations and arrests occurred in minority parts of the city. More: Exclusive: Austin Police Chief Joe Chacon to resign from department. Here's what we know. Chacon said he also wants to help improve the relationship between the city and the Pflugerville Fire Department, also known as Travis County Emergency Services District No. 2. He said he has met with Fire Chief Nick Perkins to get his perspective on the future of emergency services in the city. "Whether it's strained or not, I am always looking to improve relationships," he said. "I think that there is a lot of room for bettering that relationship." More: Pflugerville widow struggling with support year after husband died of medical negligence Pflugerville has long been wrestling with its ambulance services. Travis County Emergency Services District No. 2 used to provide EMS services to the city until it said it could no longer afford to because of an increased call volume. City officials said the district's stipend of about $2.8 million for EMS calls was unsubstantiated and did not put the creation of ESD No. 17 on the May 2021 ballot in Pflugerville. Voters outside the city limits approved the creation of the additional taxing district. In November 2021, the motion to join ESD No. 17 was placed on the ballot in Pflugerville and voters rejected it. Following the failed measure, the city hired Acadian Ambulance Services on Jan. 1, 2022, to provide service in Pflugerville. More: Austin Police Chief Joseph Chacon steps down. A look at his career through the years The city ended its contract with Acadian after only two months, citing dissatisfaction with its quality of service, including inadequate response times. In May 2022, the City Council voted to begin contract negotiations with ESD No. 2 to again provide EMS services, but later that month it also opened negotiations with Allegiance after a few council members said the ESD No. 2 price tag would be much more than they had been led to believe. This article has been updated to correct Joe Chacon's start date with the city of Pflugerville and to give his salary. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Former Austin Police Chief Chacon leading Pflugerville EMS oversight For most of the 17 years she worked at the Aztec Animal Shelter, Kellie Willits says she used to make a habit of assuring every person who surrendered a stray or unwanted animal at the facility that the shelter staff would fight to generate a good outcome for it. But over her last two years at the shelter, Willits said she didnt feel like she could make that promise in good faith. When that became not a true statement anymore, that became a big issue for me, she said. Staying silent wasnt an option for me. Willits, who was fired from her position as a veterinarian technician at the shelter in 2022 after she said she expressed her concerns about some of the facilitys procedures, filed a wrongful termination lawsuit against the city of Aztec and the shelter in September 2023, alleging her termination was a violation of the New Mexico Whistleblower Protection Act. Months later, in December 2023, the parties settled the dispute with the city agreeing to pay her $95,000. A former employee at the Aztec Animal Shelter has received a $95,000 settlement after filing a whistleblower lawsuit against the shelter and the city of Aztec last year. It was never about the money for me, Willits said, explaining that if she had simply walked away from the job without trying to expose what she characterized as the mistreatment of some of the shelters animals, no one would have known about those issues. The settlement was, for me, about bringing attention to the matter, she said, adding that she hopes that news of the settlement will lead to change in some of the shelters procedures. Aztec City Manager Jeff Blackburn said the city had no comment on the settlement. Willits attorney, Albuquerque attorney Daniel Apodaca, said he and his client both believe the settlement is a fair one, and he hopes Aztec citizens will take the opportunity to ask questions of city officials and look further into the allegations. Questioning the treatment of cats and dogs Willits, who began her career at the shelter in 2006 as a kennel technician before being promoted to animal control officer and eventually veterinarian technician, said she spent her last 14 years at the facility serving as a surgical assistant to the shelters veterinarian, working in the spay and neuter program and on injured animals that had been brought in as strays. For most of her career, Willits said she never had an issue with the shelters treatment of animals. But in 2020, when the shelter was awarded a Community Cat Grant by the Best Friends Animal Society, she said things changed. The grant was designed to fund efforts by the shelter staff to humanely trap feral cats within a defined geographical area, spay or neuter them, then release them in the area from which they were captured, according to the lawsuit. Those cats then are able to roam and protect their territory, preventing other feral cats from encroaching on their turf. But Willits alleged her lawsuit she noticed some of those cats were not being released and were instead being kept in kennels at the shelter in apparent violation of the terms of the grant. When she asked why, she claims she was told the city lacked the resources to transport the animals back to their original neighborhood. More: San Juan County Commission to vote on construction contract for rabbit, poultry barn Later, Willits said she learned many of the spayed and neutered feral cats were simply being let out the back door of the facility, ultimately causing an extreme overpopulation of feral cats near the Aztec Animal Shelter, the complaint states. By releasing a large portion of cats into a single area, the Aztec Animal Shelter was undoubtedly causing the long and prolonged death of multiple cats due to lack of prey, and thus starvation, or due to fights over territory. In an interview with The Daily Times, Willits said she was aware of approximately 160 cats being impacted by that alleged practice. She said she expressed her concerns over those alleged practices to shelter officials, but she said she was ignored. The Community Cat Grant was a multiyear grant that could be renewed annually, and Willits said shelter officials were afraid they would lose the funding if officials from the Best Friends Animal Society learned of what they were doing. In 2022, according to the lawsuit, Willits learned that shelter officials were wrongly labeling many of the shelters stray dogs as aggressive or temperament severe during the intake process, which allowed them to euthanize the canines without having them count against the shelters euthanasia rate. That allowed the facility to retain its status as a low-kill shelter, she charged. Willits said she was aware of 20 to 30 instances in which dogs that had not exhibited any aggressive behavior being mislabeled and euthanized. Again, she expressed her misgivings to the shelters managers, Willits said, but her concerns were dismissed. In May 2022, Willits said she was charged with insubordination and issued a verbal reprimand by Tina Roper, the shelter director. When Willits asked why she was being reprimanded, she said the tone of her conversation with Roper began escalating, leading her to conclude it would be best if she simply left for the day, approximately an hour early. Willits alleges in the lawsuit that shelter employees who had completed their work for the day, as she had done, routinely were permitted to leave before the end of their shift. The next day, Willits said she was fired, with city officials claiming she had abandoned her job the previous day. Still caring for animals These days, Willits said she spends her time serving as a foster caregiver for bottle-feeding, neonatal kittens. Im giving them the help they need, the start in life they need to be healthy, happy and well adjusted, she said. She said she has no desire to return to work in an animal shelter environment, preferring to provide direct care for animals in distress. I see the difference in every single animal, she said, explaining her participation it the foster program allows her to do the most good for the most animals. Willits said she was happy to have the lawsuit settled, and she hopes her decision to speak out encourages others to pursue her allegations. Now, its up to the public and the taxpayers to decide how they feel and if thats how they want the community to be represented, Willits said. Mike Easterling can be reached at 505-564-4610 or measterling@daily-times.com. Support local journalism with a digital subscription: http://bit.ly/2I6TU0e. This article originally appeared on Farmington Daily Times: Fired veterinarian tech settles lawsuit with city of Aztec for $95k (Photo : Unsplash/Brooke Cagle) The skills-based revolution is not the future; it's happening right now. Major employers such as Google, Microsoft, IBM, and Apple have already removed their long-standing degree requirements for jobs to eliminate barriers to entry and attract a more diverse pool of talent, but this has surprised many who have invested heavily in obtaining a college degree. LinkedIn has dashed the hopes of those who believe that having an excellent education alone guarantees a great job. This is because the top skill of 2024 isn't something you can acquire solely from textbooks or a YouTube tutorial. Adaptability According to LinkedIn's analysis of its 1 billion global users, adaptability is the most sought-after skill currently. Its increasing popularity coincides with leaders rushing to comprehend the implications of the growing prominence of artificial intelligence for their businesses. Dan Brodnitz, global head of content strategy at LinkedIn Learning, cautions that as organizations realize AI's capabilities, they also recognize the importance of uniquely human skills that AI cannot replicate. Therefore, being adaptable during uncertain times is crucial, according to Brodnitz. He emphasizes that adaptability will become even more essential as the rate of change accelerates. LinkedIn examined recent hires and job advertisements to forecast the most sought-after skills for the upcoming year, which brings more disappointment for those who have recently accumulated significant debt for a degree. The data shows that hiring managers value soft skills as much as hard skills, but the importance of soft skills will continue to increase. READ ALSO: How to Upskill with On-the-Job Generative AI: A Comprehensive Guide Communication Skills In a survey conducted by LinkedIn, nine out of ten global executives believe that "human" skills are increasingly crucial, especially as we transition into a new era of work influenced by AI and remote work, which makes communication categorized as a soft skill, top the list of the most sought-after skills in 2024. Brodnitz explains that in the era of hybrid work, employees use a wide range of channels and platforms to communicate. With in-person collaboration no longer the primary mode, effective communication from company and team leadership across these channels is essential for connecting, motivating, and inspiring teams. Leadership Unlike management, which focuses on achieving measurable results, leadership involves influencing change and motivating others. According to Brodnitz, this remains crucial for business success, regardless of one's position in the organizational hierarchy. Teamwork The ability to collaborate and work effectively in a virtual setup becomes critical as remote work becomes a trend. Teamwork fosters a sense of camaraderie and mutual support among physically distant team members. Problem-solving Individuals entering the workforce need strong problem-solving skills to navigate complex challenges and find innovative solutions as technology evolves and disrupts traditional workflows. Analyzing problems, thinking critically, and adapting to changing circumstances is essential for success in the rapidly changing work landscape. RELATED ARTICLE: Five Soft Skills to Prioritize When Feeling Behind at Work, Says Career Expert 2017 Jobs & Hire All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. ELKHART, Kan. (KSNW) The former CEO of a now-defunct Kansas bank has been charged with embezzlement. Shan Hanes was the CEO of Heartland Tri-State Bank in Elkhart up until July of last year when the bank was seized by the Kansas Banking Commission after the bank was found to be insolvent. Dream First Bank in Syracuse has since acquired it. The U.S. Attorneys Office has now charged Hanes with one count of embezzlement by a bank officer. Court documents accuse Hanes of diverting money from the bank into cryptocurrency. Local contractor fined $11k for deceptive business practices They allege that in December 2022, Hanes began purchasing cryptocurrency for himself. However, at the start of 2023, he used funds from a local church and local investment club to purchase cryptocurrency. Authorities allege that a total of 11 wire transfers to purchase cryptocurrency were made between May and early July, at times with Hanes directing bank employees to make the transfers. Prosecutors say the transferred funds total $47.1 million, leading directly to the bank becoming insolvent. A conviction of embezzlement by a bank officer carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, forfeiture, and a fine of $1 million. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV. A former U.S. government informant was sentenced Friday to life in prison after pleading guilty to conspiring to kill Haitis president and admitting that he attended strategic meetings before the assassination in 2021. Joseph Vincent, 58, a Haitian American, became the fourth of 11 defendants to be sentenced to life in the Miami federal case for his supporting role in the murder plot spanning South Florida, Haiti and Colombia. Vincent is cooperating with federal prosecutors by providing evidence of the meetings, logistics and actions of some of the other co-defendants who still face trial. Vincent spoke few words during the brief sentencing hearing, only saying to U.S. District Judge Jose Martinez: Please excuse me for what I have done. At his plea hearing in December, Vincent admitted in a statement filed with his plea agreement that he met with a group of co-conspirators in Haiti on the eve of the assassination of President Jovenel Moise on July 7, 2021. The factual statement was signed by Vincent, his attorney, Kenneth Swartz, and prosecutors. The statement said he wore a U.S. State Department pin to make himself look official to his Haitian counterparts. He also participated in a plan to stir up protests against Haitis leader and use them as a cover to remove Moise by force using weapons. The statement also says he joined other co-conspirators in a vehicle that drove to the presidents home outside Port-au-Prince when a group of Colombian commandos killed him during the nighttime ambush. READ MORE: Haiti President Jovenel Moise assassinated in middle-of-the-night attack at his home Vincent pleaded guilty to conspiring to provide material support in the assassination, providing that support, and conspiring to kill or kidnap a person outside the United States. At the plea hearing, federal prosecutor Frank Russo highlighted Vincents role in the murder conspiracy: Vincent provided advice to his co-conspirators about the Haitian political landscape, attended meetings with important Haitian political and community leaders, and frequently wore a U.S. State Department pin, which had the effect of leading others to believe that he was employed by the U.S. State Department. Vincent, a former informant with the Drug Enforcement Administration, is expected to be a key cooperating witness against other indicted co-conspirators, including fellow Haitian American James Solages. Solages is accused of collaborating with CTU Security, a Doral-based company owned and operated by Antonio Intriago, a defendant in the case who met with Solages in South Florida and in Haiti before Moises assassination. Solages also drove the vehicle with top Colombian commandos, Vincent and others to the presidents home for the deadly attack, court records show. And Solages yelled it was a DEA operation as the assault was unfolding that night, a claim that authorities have denied. Solages has pleaded not guilty to the murder conspiracy charges. Vincent is also expected to provide inside information on Christian Sanon, a Haitian physician and pastor who was initially proposed as the successor to Moise before the plotters abandoned him in June 2021 in favor of a member of the Haitian Supreme Court. Sanon, 65, has pleaded not guilty to conspiracy charges accusing him of smuggling ballistic vests to the Colombian commandos in Haiti and to carry out a military expedition against a foreign country. In addition to Vincent, four other defendants have admitted to their supporting roles in the slaying of Haitis president. A sixth defendant, Frederick Bergmann, 65, of Tampa, is charged with the same offenses as Sanon. But in a deal with prosecutors, Bergmann pleaded guilty Friday to two conspiracy counts: backing a military expedition against a friendly nation and violating U.S. export laws by smuggling bullet-proof vests to the Colombians in Haiti. Three related counts will be dismissed as part of his cooperation agreement with prosecutors. Bergmann, an accountant represented by attorney Henry Bell, faces up to 10 years in prison at his sentencing in April. Others connected to the assassination In October, former Haitiian Sen. Joseph Joel John pleaded guilty to the murder conspiracy and related charges in the killing of Haitis leader and in December was sentenced to life in prison. Hes also cooperating with prosecutors. Johns goal was to become the prime minister under Moises successor following the leaders removal from office, according to court records. John, 52, acknowledged to FBI agents that he had met with some co-conspirators just before they embarked on the mission to kill President Moise at his suburban home, according to court records. John admitted that he helped obtain rental vehicles, made introductions to Haitian gang members and tried to get firearms for the co-conspirators operation targeting the president, according to his statement filed with his plea agreement. John attended meetings in South Florida and Haiti with the main suspects and tried to acquire weapons and ammunition for them, according to the statement and other court records. Hes believed to have been a link between the various groups. On the night of the killing, he was in communication with several suspects. In addition, retired Colombian army officer German Alejandro Rivera Garcia, aka Colonel Mike, 45, admitted that he met with several co-conspirators from Haiti and South Florida before leading a group of former Colombian soldiers to the Haitian presidents home to kill him. In October, Rivera was sentenced to life in prison, but he is hoping to get his sentence reduced with cooperation. A former Colombian soldier, Mario Antonio Palacios Palacios, 45, who was at the presidents home on the night of the slaying, also pleaded guilty in December to the main murder conspiracy charge and faces up to life in prison. Haitian businessman Rodolphe Jaar, 51, admitted to providing weapons, lodging and money in the conspiracy to assassinate Haitis president. A dual Haitian and Chilean citizen, Jaar was sentenced in June to life in prison but is hoping to get his prison term decreased with cooperation. He had previously been convicted of drug trafficking in the United States. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has again called South Korea the North's "primary foe" and vowed to guard the country through power rather than negotiations, state media said Friday. Kim's remarks came as the North has recently abandoned its decadeslong policy of seeking reunification with the South and called for codifying the commitment to "completely occupying" South Korean territory in the event of war. "Defining the South Korean puppets as the most harmful primary foe and invariable principal enemy and deciding it as a national policy to occupy their territory in the event of a contingency is a reasonable measure for the eternal safety of our country and the peace and stability of the future," Kim was quoted as saying by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). Kim also called for full-fledged combat readiness based on more powerful military as he spoke during a visit to the defense ministry to mark the 76th founding anniversary of the North's Korean People's Army on Thursday, according to the KCNA. "Peace is not something that should be begged for or gained in exchange for talks," Kim said, adding the North no longer has to go through the "unrealistic ordeal" of engaging in talks and cooperation with the South. North Korea has been ramping up harsh-worded criticism and military provocations against the South since Kim defined inter-Korean ties as relations between "two states hostile to each other" in a year-end party meeting, saying there was no point in seeking reunification. Kim was accompanied by his daughter, Ju-ae, who also attended a banquet celebrating the military founding anniversary, the KCNA said. (Yonhap) FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now) Police said four people face charges for a series of Rose Ruse burglaries that started in December 2023. The Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) said that a total of seven burglaries happened, the earliest taking place on Dec. 28. Prince Georges County police looking for 3 suspects who robbed, shot at business and hit worker In several of the burglaries, a woman holding flowers walked up to the home and knocked on the door. When no one answered, she went back to a car. Two men forced their way into the home and stole items including jewelry, cash and purses. Police said that the suspects also tried to hide their identities by covering or tampering with surveillance cameras. FCPD believed that the group was responsible for these burglaries: Dec. 28 at 6 p.m. 900 block of Dominion Reserve Dr., McLean Dec. 29 at 6 p.m. 1100 block of Bishopgate Way, McLean Jan. 1 at 2 a.m. 1100 block of Windrock Dr., McLean Jan. 2 at 6 p.m. 10000 block of Blue Roan Rd., Oakton Jan. 8 at 5:30 p.m. 11000 block of Lance Ln., Oakton Jan. 9 between 12:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. 11100 block of Farm Rd., Great Falls Jan. 11 between 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. 1400 block of Mahyurst Blvd., McLean Police said that detectives identified a car that the suspects were driving in January. On Jan. 17, someone spotted that vehicle in Cobb County, Ga., and Fairfax County detectives made the Cobb County Police Department (CCPD) aware that the vehicle was there. CCPD said that the vehicle was involved in a recent burglary in Georgia. Cobb County police arrested four people who faces charges for that burglary in Georgia. Police: Manassas man resisted arrest, hit officer with stolen magazine FCPD detectives traveled to Cobb County and said they were able to link the suspects to the burglaries in Fairfax County. They got warrants related to the burglaries in Virginia. The suspects will be extradited to Fairfax County after the legal process in Georgia wraps up. Here are the four people and the charges they face: Juan Pablo Montecinos Neira, 34, burglary (3 counts) Rey Jesus Arturo Morales Caruin, 27, conspiracy to commit a felony (3 counts) Dylhan Jesus Esteban Osorio Jara, 23, burglary (3 counts) Karla Alejandra Vicencio Maysonet, 43, conspiracy to commit a felony and burglary (2 counts); principals in the second degree or accessory before the fact. FCPD still was looking into evidence as of Feb. 8. Anyone with any information is asked to call 1-866-411-8477. You also can leave a tip online or by downloading the P3 Tips app. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. Following a trip to Odesa, Pierre Heilbronn, France's Special Envoy for Aid and Reconstruction of Ukraine, stated that Paris would assist in the restoration of museums and cultural monuments in Odesa that had been damaged by the war. Source: European Pravda; Pierre Heilbronn on Twitter (X) Details: Heilbronn stated that approximately a hundred cultural heritage objects were damaged in Odesa, and recalled that Odesa is a twin city of French Marseille. Quote: "Cultural institutions of [Odesa] have survived. However, they need support from international partners. Needs of conservation professionals to restore what was damaged, more cooperation to boost attractivity. France is now designing a set of solutions to meet those urgent needs!" Heilbronn said. Cultural institutions of Odessa have survived. However, they need support from international partners . Needs of conservation professionals to restore what was damaged, more cooperation to boost attractivity. is now designing a set of solutions to meet those urgent needs! pic.twitter.com/xEOzOiDYXO Pierre Heilbronn (@HeilbronnPierre) February 9, 2024 Background: In the autumn, a project was launched in Italy under the auspices of the ministries of foreign affairs and culture to help restore the affected cultural monuments in Ukraine. Odesa is listed as one of its priorities. In early October, Italy signed an agreement with Ukraine on the restoration of the Transfiguration Cathedral in Odesa, which was damaged by a Russian missile attack. The best Italian architects will be engaged in the restoration of the cathedral. Support UP or become our patron! During the last exchange, Ukraine returned home another 100 defenders from Russian captivity Ukraine conducted its 51st POW exchange with Russia, with assistance from the United Arab Emirates, the Ukrainian Main Intelligence Directorate reported on Feb. 8. A total of 3135 defenders have been freed since Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine began. Among those released from captivity is a medic who, under extremely difficult conditions at Azovstal, saved wounded soldiers. Read also: Former Ukrainian POWs require extensive treatment, suspected as having been tortured At least 28 of the captives freed from imprisonment have injuries or illnesses, with the oldest being 62 and the youngest only 20, Ukrainian intelligence said. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to all those involved in the release of Ukrainian defenders from captivity. "We remember those held captive and are working every day to secure the release of all prisoners, said the President. I thank everyone around the world who helps in this effort, including the United Arab Emirates for supporting such exchanges. This latest exchange resulted in the rescue of 100 Ukrainian defenders, including 49 National Guard soldiers, 25 border guards, 26 Armed Forces servicemen, including 11 territorial defense fighters, the Coordination Staff for the Treatment of Prisoners of War reported. Read also: President Zelenskyy: Prisoner exchanges are made possible by capturing occupiers 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 Life is more complicated these days for weekly newspaper editor Nathan Countryman, shown here at his Mount Vernon office preparing for his newspapers transition to new ownership. Editor Nathan Countryman is busier than usual, pounding a keyboard in front of twin computer screens at his desk in a back room of the downtown newspaper office in Mount Vernon. On one wall are three walnut Iowa Newspaper Association (INA) plaques, won last year by the five-person staff at the weekly Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun. Well be getting five more awards this year, Countryman tells me, contemplating this weeks INA convention. He is clearly proud of this small weekly newspaper, its crew and the two communities they serve. Countryman also believes that all three entities will benefit from last weeks announcement that the University of Iowa student newspaper, the nationally prominent Daily Iowan, will purchase The Sun. These are thriving communities, he says. They deserve a good newspaper. Just 10 miles south is another thriving community, Solon, where Solon Economist Editor Chris Umscheid is likewise putting in extra hours. Both weeklies are in the throes of transition to ownership by Student Publications, Inc. (SPI), the Iowa City non-profit that publishes the Daily Iowan, with strong support from the University of Iowa School of Journalism and Mass Communication. More: The Daily Iowan acquires Mount Vernon, Solon weekly newspapers, expanding student opportunities This quaint storefront window reflecting Main Street in downtown Mount Vernon identifies the office of the Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun, one of two weekly newspapers recently purchased by the Daily Iowan, the University of Iowa student newspaper. Acquisition was a 'shocker' The Dubuque-based Woodward Communications sale of these weeklies to a university student newspaper shocked many in the industry including the two editors. It appears to be a pioneering move in the news and academics universe. Shocking, also because most small-town weekly newspapers have been fighting a losing battle for two decades in the life-altering age of evolving Internet technology. In fact, both Countryman and Umscheid feared their newspapers were shuttering when they were summoned to a recent mandatory Woodward company meeting. Instead, they found out they were being sold to a student newspaper. It provided immediate relief, at least on the financial front. Both editors know firsthand the struggle to make a profit in a small weekly. "You can only fund a deficit so long, said Umscheid. They (SPI) are saying some good things about retaining us and being committed to our communities. SPI being a non-profit might also give us a little financial cushion. We can keep the lights on and pay the staff. Countryman agreed. Maintaining staff here was huge, he said. Nobody wants to lose their job, and our staff is well known by the community. More: Judge orders stay in Short's legal battle, allowing downtown Iowa City location to remain open Covering local community events is routine for small town newspaper editors such as Chris Umscheid, shown here at Decembers Noon Years Eve sponsored by the Solon Public Library Hoping for cream of crop Both editors said little may change at first other than learning new systems to upload news, photos, and other content. Eventually, both anticipate working with an influx of UI journalism students anxious to get off-campus newspaper experience. It will be good hands-on stuff and give them a taste of covering news in a small community, Countryman said. Umscheid hopes to eventually tap student reporters for the stories he considers vital to small communities such as covering governmental topics like the school board and city council. They wont send us the greenest of the green, Umscheid said. Were hoping they send the cream of the crop. Umscheid's main goal is objectivity in covering the news, and he is pleased to retain editorial control through the purchase. We are not UI employees and were not going to print a Tigerhawk on the masthead, he told me. Were still the editors and will make our own editorial decisions. More: Catch Early Girl, Halfloves, and Spirit Awake at this week's Englert Local Showcase In a pioneering move, The Daily Iowan has purchased these two small community newspapers - The Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun and the Solon Economist - near Iowa City. Small town dedication Countryman and Umscheid seem to enjoy the many challenges of small-town newspapering, covering everything from bake sales to ball games and dealing with trying times and tragedies. They acknowledge the work involves long hours for mediocre pay, plus plenty of life interruptions to get the news in print. Small examples: During a tornado outbreak last spring, Umscheid watched the roof peel from a Solon hardware store on a live TV station camera feed and raced from his Cedar Rapids home to cover it. Countryman remembers dismissing his staff to enjoy a holiday weekend, then scrambling to cover a house fire for a last-minute frontpage photo. Dedication to small towns comes with the territory. My job is basically to tell Solons evolving story, Umscheid said. Im dedicated to this community, but I could not do half of what I do if not for the teachers, parents, fire department everybody who helps out. I see myself as one of the faces of the community, said Countryman. When you live here, you are invested. When you go to the city council meeting, you are reporting, but you are a taxpayer, too. Umscheid says he is 100 percent self-taught in reporting and photography. A Cedar Rapids native, he has a degree in graphic design from Mount Mercy College and held various jobs, including a paramedic and community college instructor, before joining the Solon Economist staff in 2008. They took a chance on me, he said. Now, all these years later, Im the last man standing. He has been in Solon for two years alongside an advertising manager with no physical office. Umscheid mostly works from his home in Cedar Rapids. Like Countryman, hes racked up numerous awards with the INA, many for his photography. Originally from Tipton, Countryman is in his eighth year at Mount Vernon, the last three as The Suns editor. He has a communications degree from Wartburg College and spent 10 years at the paper in Algona before moving to Mount Vernon. Both papers offer online and print editions, and the editors do not see total digital dominance on the horizon. These papers are in the two smallest circulation categories of the INA, but unlike other rural Iowa towns, they are serving growing communities. Both say their newspaper coverage areas include 8,000 to 10,000 people each when counting nearby residential developments. Both editors believe small-town weeklies are vital to their communities. The local stories come in multitudes, and must be told and recorded. If you struggle to find news here, Countryman said, then you arent doing your job. Thats good news for UI journalism students, who will no doubt soon be prowling the streets of Solon, Mount Vernon, and Lisbon on the hunt for newsworthy options. Will the Daily Iowans move encourage more students choosing small-town weekly newspaper careers over the pace and glamor of big city life? Umscheid is skeptical, Countryman is more hopeful. But both types of journalism are important in this day and age, Countryman concludes. Those words ring true. Press-Citizen columnist Richard Hakes has a deep affection for community journalism, having enjoyed editorial positions in small town weekly newspapers in both Forest City, Iowa, and Tracy, Minnesota, in the very distant past. This article originally appeared on Ames Tribune: Hakes: How Solon and Mount Vernon reporters are adjusting to DI acquisition A man accused of killing his girlfriend and leaving her body in a parking garage at Bostons Logan Airport before fleeing to Kenya has now escaped from a Nairobi jail, authorities have said. Kevin Kangethe, 41, was being held without bail at the jail as he awaited extradition after he was captured last week in Kenya. The fugitive is believed to have fled to Kenya shortly after killing 31-year-old Whitman, Massachusetts resident, Margaret Mbitu. Authorities searched for Kangethe for three months before he was arrested on 29 January, when an undercover officer spotted him at a nightclub in Nairobi. Police said Kangethe has now escaped authorities for a second time after a man claiming to be his attorney showed up at the jail he was being held in and asked to speak to him. Lawyers who represented him at his extradition hearing told CNN they have not been in contact with him since his escape and dont know where he is. Here is what we know so far: Why did he flee to Kenya? Kangethe is believed to have fled to Kenya after he killed his ex-girlfriend, Margaret Mbitu, in November last year. Mbitu was found dead in a pool of blood in the front passenger seat of her Toyota Venza at Bostons Logan Airport after she was reported missing two days earlier. The 31-year-old had slash wounds on her face and neck and appeared to have been stabbed on the side of her body, according to police. Law enforcement at the time said her killing did not appear to be random. State police later confirmed Mbitu and her alleged killer had a romantic relationship. Police said a subsequent investigation found Kangethe had boarded a flight to Kenya the day before Mbitus body was discovered. Margaret Mbitu was found dead in her car at Logan International Airport (SAFE Coalition) State Police Detectives obtained a warrant charging Kangethe with Ms Mbitus homicide and began working with the Diplomatic Security Service (DSS), Interpol, and Kenyan authorities to locate him in Kenya, Massachusetts State Police said. Before her death, Mbitu worked as a nurse at a nonprofit for people with developmental disabilities and behavioural health challenges in the city of Brockton. We have lost a beautiful girl that we all loved, her cousin George Kamu told NBC in November. Whenever you saw that beautiful smile, thats what you would see all the time. Capture in Kenya Kangethe was captured in Kenya in January after a three-month manhunt by Kenyan and US authorities. Kenyas director of public prosecutions said Kangethe had been hiding in Nairobis suburbs before his arrest. He added that he had stayed in touch via phone with his friends and relatives, including those in the United States. Police said he was arrested at a nightclub in Nairobi after Kenyan authorities received a tip. An undercover police officer is believed to have spotted someone who looked like Kangethe in the nightclub and struck up a conversation with him, leading to his arrest, according to CNN. He was being held in jail without bail, awaiting extradition back to the US to face trial, before he escaped on Wednesday. Escape from Nairobi jail Kenyan authorities said Kangethe escaped from jail on Wednesday after a man claiming to be his attorney appeared at the law enforcement complex where he was being held and asked to speak to him. Authorities added that Kangethe and the man posing as his lawyer were then given a private room in which to talk, and Kangethe took off shortly afterward. Police said Kangethe slipped out of the police station and boarded a bus, African news outlet Nation reported. At the time of his escape, the stations commander was in a meeting with the anti-crime unit in her office, according to authorities. She was alerted by a loud noise of officers who were chasing the prisoner along Thika Super Highway, but they did not manage to rearrest him, Kenyan authorities said in a statement. The man who claimed to be Kangethes attorney has been detained, along with four officers at the station, police said. Kangethes whereabouts are currently unknown. Jason Ikeem Rodgers first heard Miami hip-hop at a $1 basement party in his hometown of Philadelphia. The room was dark, the only light coming from a red bulb in the ceiling. As 2 Live Crew blared from the speakers, the teenage Rodgers couldnt help but dance. It was just so new, fresh and heavy, Rodgers said, chuckling as he describes the scene as a whole lot of popping and grinding Now the leader of Orchestra Noir, an Atlanta-based ensemble composed entirely of musicians of African descent, Rodgers will have the opportunity to perform with another Miami hip-hop legend. Orchestra Noir will accompany Trina on Feb. 10 at the Miramar Cultural Center as part of the citys hip-hop 50 celebration. The concert, which will also feature an appearance by Trick Daddy, represents Orchestra Noirs first headlining performance alongside a feMCee. I am ecstatic to be highlighted for the celebration of Hip-Hop presented by Miramar Cultural Center and Orchestra Noir, Trina said in a statement. It is an honor to be on the stage with such a pristine group of Black symphony players. A native of Philadelphia, Rodgers fell in love with classical music in sixth grade. He would go on to explore his passion across the country University of North Carolina School of the Arts and the Cleveland Institute of Art before winning the International Conducting Competition in the U.S., the Orchestra da Camera Fiorentina Conducting Competition in Florence, Italy and the London Classical Soloists Competition. Something, however, was missing. I wasnt making music with people who look like me, Rodgers said. Less than seven percent of all conductors are Black, according to the League of American Orchestras 2023 study. As for musicians, that figure drops to 2.4 percent. Led by Maestro Jason Ikeem Rodgers (center), Orchestra Noir will accompany Trina at 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024 at the Miramar Cultural Center. Rodgers started the all-Black orchestra in 2016 after moving to Atlanta. So when Rodgers moved to Atlanta in 2016, he decided to build what would become Orchestra Noir to pay homage to artists who arent always embraced by the classical music establishment. Im from Philly so I still listen to hip-hop regularly, R&B regularly, Rodgers said. I still listen to Beanie Sigel. I never left that vein. The calls started to flow almost immediately. Migos tapped them to perform in their music video for the track Deadz. Cardi B reached out for them to play her baby shower. 2 Chainz had them perform an arrangement on Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. And even Red Bull called on them to accompany Rick Ross for its symphonic concert series. The hip-hop culture is so heavy [in Atlanta] that when they saw I put together a Black orchestra, Rodgers said, Migos was the first to reach out. Fast forward to 2024 and Rodgers called Orchestra Noirs upcoming performance alongside Trina a dream come true. We were really trying to capture that real sound of Miami, Rodgers said. Trick Daddy and Trina have so much to do with the building blocks of hip-hop in Miami and Florida. Although classical music is often viewed as elitist, Rodgers and his ensemble did not shy away from using the grittiest records. That, in fact, was the goal especially considering Rodgers first exposure to Miami hip-hop. The south was affecting us and we didnt even know it, Rodgers recalled. He was in awe upon realizing the performance is in Broward County, the very place that then-Broward Sheriff Nick Navarro banned 2 Live Crews As Nasty As They Wanna Be. The move became a catalyst for Uncle Lukes fight for free speech that went all the way up to the Supreme Court and laid the groundwork for todays hip-hop. To be conducting an orchestra in this music from Miami, this lineage, its a privilege, he added. To know that Wow, this man had to fight for this freedom for me to be free, for me to be able to express my childhood, my adolescence. And now Im here sharing in this joy of him succeeding, its a full circle moment. Collaborating with Trina, one of the biggest inspirations for the current crop of feMCees who are arguably running rap, just makes it all the more special. Now, women rappers are doing extraordinary but this is only because of people like Trina who was doing it at a time when there werent really women doing in on that level. She paved the way. She showed women can have a voice in this thing too. IF YOU GO WHAT: Orchestra Meets Hip-Hop with Trina WHEN: 8 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024 WHERE: Miramar Cultural Center (2400 Civic Center Pl, Miramar, FL 33025) TICKETS: $55-$100 For more information go to miramarculturalcenter.org Gaston County Police Chief Stephen Zill speaks during a press conference about Operation Winter Guardian Friday afternoon, Feb. 9, 2024, at the Gaston County Police Department. Sixteen people have been arrested for allegedly soliciting, sexually exploiting or abusing children. The arrests were part of Operation Winter Guardian, according to a press conference held in Gastonia Friday afternoon. Operation Winter Guardian included 44 local, state and federal law enforcement agencies working together as part of the North Carolina Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Operation Winter Guardian was a two-part initiative by the NCICAC, primarily during the week of Jan. 8 to 12, according to a press release. One phase of the operation consisted of law enforcement investigators acting in an undercover capacity online and participating in chats with individuals seeking to meet juveniles for sexual activity, the release said. Some of them individuals then traveled to a location in Gaston County to meet the person they believed to be a child to engage in sex acts. The second phase of the operation involved investigators executing search warrants at several locations throughout the state that were identified as distribution points where child sexual exploitation images were shared, according to the release. Protecting the children of our community is my highest priority," Gaston County Police Chief Stephen Zill said. "I take immense pride in the tireless work of our detectives and the collaborative partnerships developed with local police, county, state and federal agencies to pursue individuals who seek to take advantage of our children." The Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force is a nationally coordinated effort of 61 regional task forces dedicated to investigating, prosecuting and responding to internet crimes against children. In North Carolina, the NC State Bureau of Investigations Computer Crimes Unit leads the NCICAC Task Force, consisting of more than 250 agencies across the state. People who prey on the vulnerability of children should expect to be held accountable for their actions and operations like this underscore our commitment to ensuring that happens, said Kyle Burns, acting special agent in charge for HSI Charlotte, which covers North and South Carolina. Protecting children from predators that seek to exploit them is one of the most important missions for HSI, and we are fully committed to working with our law enforcement partners to identify, investigate and prosecute those involved in this heinous crime. According to the press release, at least five children were identified and safeguarded from ongoing sexual abuse. SBI Special Agent in Charge Kevin Roughton speaks during a press conference about Operation Winter Guardian Friday afternoon, Feb. 9, 2024, at the Gaston County Police Department. Individuals who have been arrested are: Gabriel John Yager, Apex, 23, seven counts of second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor Hunter Ray Fesperman, Hertford, 21, four counts of second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor Larry Ray Haskins, Lenoir, 34, second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor Jubonte Stevenson, New Bern, 36, first-degree statutory sex offense Jonathan Paul Swiney, Asheboro, 43, second-degree child sexual exploitation of a minor Scott Thomas Wallace, Wilmington, 54, three counts of third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor Johnathan Cody McCall, Swansboro, 36, 10 counts of second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor and 10 counts of third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor Jamie Tucker, Louisburg, 40, six counts of second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor, two counts of secret peeping and one count each of manufacture schedule VI, possession with intent to sell or distribute marijuana and maintaining a vehicle or dwelling for drug distribution. Nicholas Tyler Banks, Burnsville, 22, second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor, failure to inform of new online identifier and third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor Darryl Edwin Foley, Garner, 34, seven counts of first-degree sexual exploitation of a minor, 10 counts of second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor, three counts of statutory sex offense with a child by an adult and two counts of first-degree statutory rape Carmen Delia Foley, Garner, 31, 13 counts of first-degree sexual exploitation of a minor, two counts of statutory sexual offense with a child by an adult and two counts of aid and abetting first-degree statutory rape Lance Skipper, Zebulon, 40, second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor Barry Glenn Swinson, Randleman, 74, indecent liberties and solicitation of a child by computer for sex act David Anthony Roux, Charlotte, 35, indecent liberties Neal David Wilfong, Cleveland, 78, indecent liberties Zachary Dean Williams, Wadesboro, 27, indecent liberties and solicitation of a child by computer for sex act The District Attorneys Office is firmly committed to holding all sexual predators accountable and will work tirelessly with our law enforcement to make our community a safer place to live, Gaston County District Attorney Travis Page said. Homeland Security Investigations Acting Special Agents in Charge Kyle Burns speaks during a press conference about Operation Winter Guardian Friday afternoon, Feb. 9, 2024, at the Gaston County Police Department. This article originally appeared on The Gaston Gazette: Gaston police departments help charge 16 with child sex crimes Russian tourists departed Friday for their first group trip to North Korea since the COVID-19 pandemic amid deepening ties between the two countries. A total of 97 Russian nationals were expected to join the four-day trip that will take them to Pyongyang and the Masikryong Ski Resort in the North's eastern region, according to the Russian news agency TASS. They are the first group of foreign tourists to enter the North since the country reopened its border in August last year after more than three years and six months of closure. The international terminal in the Vladivostok International Airport was bustling Friday morning with tourists getting ready to board the Air Koryo JS-272 flight scheduled to depart for Pyongyang in the afternoon. The airplane departed at 1:39 p.m. People presumed to be North Korean officials and residents, wearing a pin of the North Korean flag, were also spotted, raising speculation they may board the same airplane. The latest trip comes amid deepening ties between the two countries after North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in a rare summit last year. In December, Oleg Kozhemyako, the governor of Russia's far eastern region of Primorsky Krai, visited Pyongyang for talks on bilateral cooperation in the fields of tourism, trade and agriculture. In a recent letter sent to the Russian Embassy in Pyongyang, Kozhemyako was quoted as saying the group trip will mark the beginning of a resumption of cooperation in tourism and development of humanitarian ties between the two countries. (Yonhap) Olaf Scholz, the Chancellor of Germany, held a meeting with senators during his visit to the United States. Source: European Pravda, citing Scholz on Twitter (X). Details: Scholz said that Ukraine needs all kinds of support to defend itself against Russian aggression. "It was good to talk again with members of the US Senate from both sides of the aisle," he noted. It was good to talk again with members of the US Senate from both sides of the aisle. Ukraine needs all of our support in order to defend itself against Russias aggression. pic.twitter.com/sMloMcj5OU Bundeskanzler Olaf Scholz (@Bundeskanzler) February 9, 2024 Before he visited the United States, the Chancellor of Germany published a column in The Wall Street Journal, cautioning against Russia's victory in Ukraine and calling for continued support for Kyiv. Scholz travelled to Washington on 8 February and is set to hold talks with President Joe Biden on 9 February. Background: On 8 February, the US Senate adopted a procedural decision for further consideration of the bill allocating additional assistance to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. Support UP or become our patron! Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Adm. Kim Myung-soo inspected military readiness against North Korea's nuclear and missile threats, Friday at an Army missile command and an Air Force fighter wing. Kim inspected the Army Missile Strategic Command and the Air Force 8th Fighter Wing to check on their readiness posture on the first day of the extended Lunar New Year holiday, according to military officials, During the inspection of the missile command, Kim examined the mission implementation system, and ordered soldiers to maintain an "airtight" missile response posture and firmly hit back in the case of an enemy provocation, the officials said. (Yonhap) Germany is never as strong as it looks; Germany is never as weak as it looks, to borrow an old expression. We built a myth of a uniquely competent nation during the glory years of Deutschland Inc, when Germany seemed to have found the secret of prosperous modernity, with stable coalitions, and trade unions sitting on company boards in a blissful partnership of Mitbestimmung. Germany purred along as the worlds top exporter, engineering the most sought-after cars, with a rock-solid D-Mark managed by an unflappable Bundesbank, bequeathed to Europes monetary union in an act of remarkable generosity. The narrative today has swung to the opposite extreme of a broken national model. The three-way coalition is at daggers drawn over everything. The two great Volkspartei of German post-War democracy can no longer hold the centre as the political system splinters, with the pro-Putin, pro-fossil, AfD running at 20pc on the Right and Sahra Wagenknechts heady brew of anti-woke and anti-foreigner socialism scrambling the electoral picture on the Left. The railways are on strike. Farmers blockaded Frankfurt airport last week. Industrial output has been falling for seven consecutive months, and is now down 14pc since mid-2017 in a longer slump than the Great Depression. There are ever louder warnings that the German car industry may go the way of Coventry in the 1970s. The housing market is undergoing a very unGerman boom and bust cycle, thanks to the European Central Banks lurch from extreme monetary creation and negative rates in 2022 to an emergency stop a year later after the economy had already hit a brick wall. Home prices have fallen 12pc from their peak. TAG Immobilien expects them to drop by 30pc. The mood is dreadful but revulsion can be a powerful catalyst. I like it because this level of despair is what we need to shake us out of comfortable complacency, said Moritz Kraemer, chief economist at LBBW Bank in Stuttgart and former head of global sovereign ratings at Standard & Poors. What is striking amid the doomism is that Germany has entirely eliminated its dependence on Russian gas previously provided at below market cost in a political sweetheart deal with Putin without precipitating a full-blown crisis. Gas storage levels are safely above seasonal levels at 74pc. Benchmark TTF gas contracts for March are trading at pre-war levels of 27.77 MWh, down 90pc from the peak. We were all speculating that large parts of German industry would shut down. It didnt happen, said Dr Kraemer. The government passed an LNG Acceleration Act to build terminals for liquefied natural gas at war-time speed, contracting five floating regas ships in the meantime. Uniper rushed through the first onshore terminal from drawing board to production in a once-unthinkable ten months. It shows that when we really have to do something, we still can. We got through last winter with the best subsidy regime in Europe, said Holger Schmieding, chief economist at Berenberg Bank. After a botched start, Germany is coming good on Ukraine, cranking out ammunition for the Gepard anti-aircraft tank and for Iris-T SLM batteries though it is still dragging its feet on Taurus cruise missiles. It is now the largest supplier of weapons in Europe by huge margin, dwarfing France or Italy twenty times over, according to the Kiel Institute. A formidable military-industrial power is awakening. Germany is not the sick man of Europe. It is highly-geared to the global cyclical through reliance on exports and trade with China. People are making the standard mistake of extrapolating a cyclical downturn into a structural malaise, said Dr Schmieding. Have we hit bottom yet? Probably. The inventory correction is coming to an end, and it has been a really bad one for family Mittelstand firms. Structurally, Germany is in mediocre shape but that is not too bad considering the shocks that have been thrown at it, he said. What I notice is the stream of big investment projects in clean-tech and cutting-edge industry. Northvolt is building its next EV gigafactory in Schleswig-Holstein. Teslas Elon Musk is building his plant outside Berlin, and plans to raise annual car production in Germany to one million. Intel, TSMC, Infineon, ZF/Wolfspeed are all building semiconductor foundries in Silicon Saxony in a 48bn (41bn) expansion. There is a risk that this lurch into industrial policy will lead to rampant overcapacity. But you cannot accuse Berlin of policy paralysis or clinging to the status quo. Nor is it clear to me that Germany has lost the EV race. Volkswagen co-owns the Chinese company behind the new LMFP manganese battery, which slashes cost while boosting range to 600 miles. It has taken shockingly large subsidies to lure these companies, but that is the point. Germany is shaking off its Ordoliberal phobia of debt, which led to negative net public investment for much of the last twenty years and a pre-modern digital infrastructure, with a broadband ranking lower than Turkey. You can live off your past substance for a while but it catches up with you. The railways are atrocious, bridges are crumbling, and the locks dont work on the canals, said Dr Kraemer. Our old image of Germany as a pocket superpower was never what it seemed, says Marcel Fratzscher, head of the German Institute for Economic Research (DIW) and author of The Germany Illusion. Were living in cloud-cuckoo land, he once told me. It was particularly misleading in the early years of the euro after Chinas WTO accession, when Germany became supplier-in-chief of machine tools and capital goods for the industrialisation of Asia, which of course allowed Chinese companies to reverse-engineer everything and copy it. At that phase of its development China needed to buy a lot of stuff from Germany but the Chinese are building this stuff for themselves now, more cheaply, and sometimes better, said Dr Kraemer. The other pillar of that era was the Hartz IV labour reform ie, making it easier to fire workers. It compressed wages and amounted to an internal devaluation against the rest of the eurozone. Germany conquered market share across Club Med with an undervalued intra-euro exchange rate, racking up a current account surplus of 8pc of GDP in what became a mercantilist trade policy. It would not have been possible if Germany had had a floating exchange rate, he said. This export surge was funded by vendor financing through capital flows, leading inevitably to the eurozone debt crisis. This was then miscast as a morality play of fiscal saints and sinners. Germany looked strong because it controlled the machinery of bail-outs, and imposed its debt-collection policies on Greece, Ireland, the Latin bloc, but that weird episode reflected the half-constructed nature of the euro experiment, launched without a lender-of-last-resort or fiscal union. In reality the Wirtschaftswunder was already fading. Germanys world has crashed all around since then. It lost China, it lost Russia, it lost its fat trade surplus with Britain, and it lost the combustion engine. Its workforce is shrinking by half a million a year and it is now well into the Japanese phase of its demographic crisis. But it is still standing and has shed most illusions. Its leaders are grasping the nettle with impressively Teutonic determination. There is no going back to boom conditions but, in trader parlance, Germany is underloved and oversold. It is time to take a punt on Deutschland Inc. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz steps out of an Airbus of the German Air Force's air force after arriving in Washington. Michael Kappeler/dpa German Chancellor Olaf Scholz will visit the White House on Friday to discuss military aid for Ukraine and other issues with US President Joe Biden. The hour-long meeting between Scholz and Biden is the centrepiece of a short 24-hour visit by Scholz to the US capital focused on bolstering support for Ukraine in the country's ongoing war against the Russian invasion. They will also discuss the ongoing Middle East conflict and NATO's 75th anniversary summit in July. The visit, Scholz's third since becoming chancellor at the end of 2021, comes amid growing concern in Ukraine that Western support could be drying up. Republicans in the US Congress have so far blocked further aid packages for Ukraine, while Scholz has struggled to cajole fellow European leaders into substantially increasing funding and weapons shipments for Ukraine's military. Scholz's lobbying efforts have focused in particular on several large, wealthy European countries such as France, Spain and Italy. On Thursday night, Scholz dined at the German ambassador's residence with US senators, including members of Donald Trump's Republican Party. The main topic here too was aid to Ukraine. Sources in the German delegation said there were "hopeful" signs from the dinner conversation with senators that further US support might be coming. Trump, who will likely be the Republican nominee to challenge Biden in the November elections, has criticized further aid for Ukraine. After the Thursday dinner, Scholz wrote on X (formerly Twitter): "Ukraine needs all of our support in order to defend itself against Russia's aggression." Biden and Scholz do not plan to hold a press conference on Friday, although their meeting may be very briefly open to press. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz steps out of an Airbus of the German Air Force's air force after arriving in Washington. Michael Kappeler/dpa German Chancellor Olaf Scholz arrived in Washington Thursday for a short 24-hour visit, which will primarily focus on further military aid for Ukraine. The US and Germany are Ukraine's most important suppliers of weapons for its defence against Russian aggressors. Scholz and US President Joe Biden want to prevent the aid from Western allies from crumbling two years after Russia's invasion. On Friday afternoon, they will meet at the White House for a 60-minute one-on-one meeting. They will also discuss the ongoing Middle East conflict and NATO's 75th anniversary summit in July. Scholz dined at the German ambassador's residence with senators on Thursday - including from former President Donald Trump's Republican Party. The main topic here too was aid to Ukraine. The Republicans in Congress have been blocking the billions in aid for Kiev demanded by Biden for months. Shortly before the chancellor's arrival, there was at least a small glimmer of hope. An aid package worth billions for Ukraine cleared at least a first procedural hurdle in the Senate. After the dinner, Scholz wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter: "Ukraine needs all of our support in order to defend itself against Russias aggression." The chancellor is currently trying to persuade EU partners to provide more military aid to Ukraine - especially economically strong countries such as France, Spain and Italy. The response so far has been moderate. Trump himself had been campaigning against a previous version of the legislative package in recent days - with success. At the dinner, Scholz was perhaps able to get a feel for the universe of the ex-president, who wants to challenge Biden in Novembers election. Among the four Republican senators invited was Lindsey Graham, a loyal Trump supporter. However, the most staunch supporters from the right fringe of the party are mainly in the House of Representatives. Before his departure, Scholz had once again warned urgently of what might happen if the Ukraine aid doesn't materialize. "We have to do our utmost to prevent Russia from winning," Scholz wrote in a guest article for the Wall Street Journal. "If we dont, we might soon wake up in a world even more unstable, threatening and unpredictable than it was during the Cold War." Biden is currently struggling with completely different problems that have nothing to do with the crises in other countries around the world. Shortly before the chancellor's arrival, a document scandal caught up with the Democrat president. He has been found to have kept confidential government documents from his time as US Vice President in private - which is not permitted. The special investigator appointed to look into the allegations did not recommend any legal consequences for Biden in his final report. However, he described the most powerful man in the world as a doddering senior citizen with major memory problems, which is troubling for Biden with an election approaching. Biden has also attracted attention again in the past few days with embarrassing slips of the tongue. Just one day before the chancellor's visit, he confused his predecessor Angela Merkel with the deceased former chancellor Helmut Kohl when he gave an anecdote in New York about the G7 summit in 2021. At a spontaneously convened press conference on the special investigator's report on Thursday evening, Biden made another slip of the tongue: during a comment on the Middle East crisis, he accidentally referred to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi as the head of state of Mexico. There will be no press conference with Scholz on Friday. However, the two will at least meet with the public for a few minutes at the beginning of their talks in the Oval Office - and possibly also say a few words in the direction of Moscow and Kiev. Sun Gazing Last fall, NASA's Mars rover spotted a massive spot on the surface of the Sun and now, that ginormous maw is looking directly at the Earth. First reported by SpaceWeather.com, the sunspot is expected to blast a coronal mass ejection (CME) out towards Earth and will be "not just a near miss, but an actual glancing blow." CMEs occur when storms on the surface of the Sun blast plasma out into the solar system, leaving planets in its path including our own Earth to handle the geomagnetic consequences. While sunspots are nothing new, this one is a big deal because, well, it's so big. Back in August, SpaceWeather pointed out something odd that had been imaged by the Mars rover Perseverance: a sunspot large enough to be seen from Mars, which indicated that it was absolutely massive. As Space.com notes in its own reporting on the XL ejection, the spot in question, named AR3576, seems to have at least four dark cores that are each the size of Earth itself. Energizer Bunny Beyond just being an enchantingly gigantic anomaly which, as Space reports, can be viewed from Earth without much more than a pair of eclipse glasses to protect one's eyes this fascinating flare unfortunately has the potential to seriously screw with our electronics, too. In a press release from earlier in the week, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration warned that AR3576 could eject X-class flares, which are the most powerful type of solar activity and emit tons of electromagnetic radiation. As NASA explains, this type of flare has the "potential to create global transmission problems and world-wide blackouts," which is not at all good news for, well, everything that keeps our world running. Indeed, solar flares and their often-accompanying blasts of energy caused temporary radio blackouts in the United States in December and in the South Pacific earlier this week indicating that the coming era of increased geomagnetic activity, which wasn't supposed to peak until 2025, is really starting to heat up. "This solar maximum is the space weather equivalent of hurricane season," NOAA research scientist Mark Miesch told CNN of the space storm era last year. "This solar maximum is the space weather equivalent of hurricane season. Its when we see the biggest storms." "But unlike hurricane season, which lasts a few months, solar maximum lasts a few years," Miesch continued. If this recent solar activity is any indication, the Sun is waking up in a big way and our only option, really, is to marvel and deal with the consequences here on Earth. More on the Sun: Scientists Working on Plan to Cool Earth by Blocking Sun A young girl was pulled from a deadly landslide in a miraculous rescue Friday, authorities in the southern Philippines said, as rescue efforts hampered by poor conditions resumed for more than 110 others who have been missing for days. At least 27 people have been killed and 35 injured, the countrys national disaster agency said late Friday, adding that 89 others remain missing. More than 5,300 people have been affected by the landslide, which took place in Maco, including the remote gold mining village of Masara on the island of Mindanao, following intense rains. Search and rescue operations are still underway, Incident Commander Engineer Ariel Capoy said in a virtual press conference on Saturday. Elizabeth Uy, a provincial official, said pre-emptive evacuations had taken place due to the unpredictable weather conditions at the time. Some 1,559 people had been evacuated across eight evacuation centers to date, Uy said. The girl is in a stable condition, the government added, with Davao de Oro Gov. Dorothy Gonzaga saying her rescue had provided a sign of hope. Rescue teams search for missing miners in Maco, Davao de Oro, Philippines on February 8, 2024. - Jeoffrey Maitem/Anadolu/Getty Images Families of the missing have endured an agonizing wait for the search to restart after efforts were paused Thursday due to limited visibility and intermittent slides. The long wait for news of his missing son had become unbearable, resident Wilfredo Pilones told state broadcaster PTV on Thursday. The rescue is taking a long time, he said. Theyll get buried deeper even more. The region is resource-rich, with raw metals buried under sprawling mountainous highlands dotted with agricultural villages. A policeman carries a baby as officials ordered mandatory evacuation from the landslide-hit village on February 8, 2024. - Jeoffrey Maitem/Anadolu/Getty Images Aerial photos taken by the military showed huge swaths of land covered in mud along a winding river flowing across the mine and surrounding village huts. Among the missing, at least 45 are employees of local firm Apex Mining, which said workers waiting on buses to be shuttled out of the mine were engulfed in the landslide. Heavy rains across Mindanao since late January have led to more than 20 deaths due to floods and landslides, the National Disaster authority said. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com The worlds AI and data infrastructure is about to get the mother of all stress tests and the stakes couldnt be higher. Were in a massive election year, which means this year will also bring countless efforts to use AI tools for political ends to educate and empower voters, yes, but also to warp political discourse, damage democracies, and skew election results. Were already seeing the warning signs. In New Hampshire, primary voters received AI-generated calls in which President Joe Biden told them to stay home on primary day. A super PAC was found to be using AI to create a deepfake version of Democratic challenger Dean Phillips. Elsewhere in the world, politicians from London to Lahore are now the subject of deepfaked audio and video, and experts say the concept of truth itself is now being destabilized by ubiquitous GenAI technologies. In response, House Democrats are calling for new rules to curb AI-generated robocalls. Taiwanese lawmakers, fearing Chinese interference in their elections, passed new rules banning people from sharing deepfaked content. In India, lawmakers have threatened to revoke safe-harbor rules for social networks that allow the circulation of deepfaked content. Were also seeing tech companiesincluding OpenAI, Meta and Googleunveil their plans for minimizing AI tool abuse. Thats all well and good, but it wont be enough to keep our elections safeunless the various countermeasures now being discussed are accompanied by a serious attempt to protect consumers data rights. Efforts to flag deepfakes or govern their circulation will fall flat unless our efforts at AI regulation are accompanied by robust measures to give people real agency, and the power to determine how their data is used and what kinds of data-driven digital content they experience. Nutritional labels are not enough To see why that matters, consider some of the steps being taken by OpenAI to keep our elections safe. First, the company is working with other AI firms to create digital credentials for AI-generated images helping to track the materials used to generate them. Next, its testing provenance classifier technologies that can spot AI-generated images. Finally, its working to bring more up-to-date news content into ChatGPTs source data, helping to ensure that generated content is relatively up-to-date. Again, that sounds greatbut it also sounds insufficient. Much of what OpenAI is proposing boils down to the implementation of nutritional labels for AI-generated content, allowing people to understand what theyre viewing and see how it was created. That isnt bad, but telling people what went into the content theyre being shown is just one piece of a bigger puzzle. Look at it this way: a nutritional label tells you how the sausage got made, but that doesnt do the pig much good. When it comes to GenAI, we arent just consumers: were part of the product. That means passively acknowledging how data was used isnt enoughwe need real agency over whats being done with our data. Thats important even when were talking about a deepfaked politician because were increasingly moving into a world where micro-targeting will be used in conjunction with AI technologies to create and serve up hyper-persuasive content thats tailored to individuals and precisely calibrated for maximum impact. According to one European government report, the fusion of data-driven micro-targeting and deepfake technologies will become a weapon of mass division, vastly amplifying the impact of GenAI technologies on global democracy. A question of trust So whats the solution? Well, we need transparency and reliable tagging or watermarking to show when content is AI-generated. But as weve learned in the data privacy space, we shouldnt expect consumers to pay much attention to disclosures and nutritional labels. The reality is that we cant expect people to read the small print to figure out whether content was faked by an AI model, nor whether their own data is being used to turbo-charge such efforts. Instead, we need to take steps to put consumers in control of how they interact with AI models and AI-generated content. A user might want to say: never use my likeness in an AI image generator, and never use my data to tailor the GenAI content that Im shown. They shouldnt have to articulate those preferences each and every time they view an image or a video; instead, they should be able to state their preferences once and have them reflected across their entire digital universe. Ultimately, this boils down to trustand unless were providing people with real control and agency over how their data is used and where it flows, theres simply no reason for them to trust either AI technologies or the organizations that create and operate them. Thats especially corrosive in the political arenaits where the idea that truth itself is unknowable creeps in, and it quickly leads to cynicism and political disengagement. But its part of a broader problem that impacts every part of the AI economy and of the broader data economy from which its built. Trust is the fragile but powerful product of data systems that proactively align how data is used with how people want it to be used. It is built up when we give people the information and tools to make meaningful decisions about their databut squandered just as easily if we dont effectively enforce those decisions. If we want to protect our democracyor enable AI to evolve safely in countless other areas of our livesthen we need to start by giving people clarity, and real agency over the data they share. Jonathan Joseph leads solutions at Ketch, a platform for programmatic privacy, governance, and security, and an expert in privacy legislation. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. When Missouri Senate Republicans brought a bill this week to ban Planned Parenthood from receiving Medicaid dollars, Democratic Sen. Tracy McCreery offered amendments aimed at loosening the states near-total ban on abortion. The amendments would have allowed abortions in cases of rape and incest. Missouri law makes no exception for those situations. McCreery, from the St. Louis area, said the state went too far in banning abortion in nearly all instances. But Sen. Sandy Crawford, a Buffalo Republican, pushed back. God is perfect, Crawford said on the Senate floor. God does not make mistakes and for some reason he allows that to happen. Bad things happen. Every Senate Republican present on the floor voted against McCreerys amendments, which failed. The contentious debate underscores an important dynamic within Missouri politics in an election year: even as a campaign to overturn Missouris strict ban on abortion is underway, generating more than $3 million in funding so far, Republican lawmakers show no signs of moderating their approach to abortion. The reasoning is likely two-fold. An important, if simple, answer is that many lawmakers in the GOP-controlled General Assembly hold genuinely staunch anti-abortion views. Even before the state banned abortion in 2022, Missouri officials had for decades whittled away at access. By the time the ban went into effect, a single abortion clinic remained in the state. But the districts of many lawmakers have also grown much more solidly Republican, shielding numerous legislators from truly competitive general elections. For many Republicans, the only real danger to re-election comes in the primary potentially by a challenger who outmaneuvers you on abortion or another issue. Republicans in Missouri control both chambers of the General Assembly and hold every statewide office. At the same time, most Missourians appear to support some of abortion access. Polling conducted in 2022 by Saint Louis University and YouGov showed that a majority of Missourians were in favor of some level of legal abortion and disagreed with the states ban on abortion. For Senate Minority Leader John Rizzo, an Independence Democrat, the answer as to why Republicans havent moderated on abortion comes down to politics. Republicans continue winning elections in Missouri, he said. This is not going to change down here until they start to lose elections over the issues that they believe in, Rizzo said. Why would they change? Sam Lee, a longtime anti-abortion lobbyist in Jefferson City, said that Republican lawmakers are reflecting the views of their constituents, who are anti-abortion and agree with the states ban as its written. This is reflecting what their constituents want, he said. No one I talked to had any heartburn about their votes. Senate Republicans this year appear not only unwilling to amend the ban some are looking to push further. Senators on Wednesday debated a bill from Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman, an Arnold Republican who is running for Congress, that would bar Planned Parenthood from receiving state Medicaid money. Planned Parenthood has received zero state money for nearly two years amid ongoing legal battles over past attempts by Republicans to defund the organization. The organizations two affiliates in Missouri, Planned Parenthood Great Plains and Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri, no longer provide abortions in the state. The St. Louis affiliate criticized Republican lawmakers in a social media post on Wednesday, pointing to the non-abortion services the organization provides including STI testing, cancer screenings, wellness exams and birth control. Republicans were prevented from taking action on the bill this week as Senate Democrats stood and filibustered, offering a slew of amendments, including the rape and incest exceptions. Sen. Doug Beck, a St. Louis Democrat, offered an amendment that would have specifically allowed 12-year-olds who became pregnant to receive abortions a jab at Sen. Mike Moon, an Ash Grove Republican who suggested last year that children as young as 12 should be allowed to marry. The push to prohibit funding to Planned Parenthood could also thwart attempts to reauthorize a series of crucial taxes that fund Missouris Medicaid system. The taxes expire later this year. Hard-right senators are expected to attempt to push amendments that would bar funding to Planned Parenthood a repeat of a fight that occurred in 2021 and forced lawmakers into a special session. The Planned Parenthood funding debate marked the first time the Senate has formally considered a bill since session began last month. The chamber has been gridlocked by infighting among Republicans, largely caused by a hard-right group of senators who feel that GOP leadership is not conservative enough. The group, the Missouri Freedom Caucus, has vowed to halt nearly all action in the chamber until senators agree to take up a bill that would make it more difficult for voters to amend the state constitution through the initiative petition process. Some Republicans view the effort as a way to stymie any upcoming vote to overturn the abortion ban. One of the leaders of the group, Sen. Bill Eigel, a Weldon Spring Republican running for governor, told reporters that he expected senators to debate a bill that would overhaul the states initiative petition process early next week, potentially on Tuesday. While Republicans have wanted to overhaul the process for years and make amending the state constitution more difficult, the effort has taken on new urgency amid the abortion rights campaign. Were gonna push on that next week the top issue that were going to be bringing up, said Sen. Rick Brattin, a Harrisonville Republican who chairs the hard-right caucus. But, Rizzo, the Independence Democrat, pointed to the Republican vote against exceptions to for rape and incest as an example of the importance of the states initiative petition process. Every Republican in the room voted against exceptions for victims of rape and incest. Thats how extreme theyve become, he said. That is why the only recourse for everyday Missourians is through the initiative petition process. Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.) called on members of the Biden administration to explore removing President Biden under the 25th Amendment after a special counsel cleared him of wrongdoing but painted him as an elderly man with a failing memory. In a letter obtained by The Hill, Tenney wrote to Attorney General Merrick Garland on Thursday night to share her grave concerns. After concluding that President Biden knowingly and willfully removed, mishandled, and disclosed classified documents repeatedly over a period of decades, Mr. Hur nevertheless recommended that charges not be brought against him, her letter said. Special Counsels reasoning was alarming. Special counsel Robert Hur released his findings Thursday in the case into Bidens handling of classified materials. Hurs 388-page report investigated how documents from Bidens time as vice president ended up at his Wilmington, Del., home and an old office space. Hur determined he willfully retained the documents but didnt bring forth any charges, describing Biden as an elderly man with a poor memory. Tenney argued that the Department of Justice cannot ethically bring charges against former President Trump and decline to bring them against Biden. She argued that Biden, who is 81, is lacking the ability to execute his responsibilities as president and argued that Hurs report shows Biden is not competent to stand trial. It is incumbent upon you to explore proceedings to remove the President pursuant to the 25th Amendment to the United States Constitution, she wrote. President Biden needs to be charged, or he needs to be removed. There is no middle ground. The 25th Amendment, ratified after President John F. Kennedy was assassinated, is a procedure for replacing the president in the event of death, removal, resignation or incapacitation. Tenney reposted reports of her letter, which was first obtained by Fox Digital, on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. She responded to Hurs report as absolutely corrupt and disgusting. Biden angrily defended himself Thursday night in the wake of the special counsels report, saying during a press conference: I put this country back on its feet. Biden angrily defends memory, age in contentious press conference Updated Feb. 9 at 8:14 a.m. ET For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Some 5.2 million cars were expected to hit the road nationwide Friday, the first day of the Lunar New Year holiday, as people head to their hometowns. Among such cars, some 490,000 vehicles were expected to leave the greater Seoul area for provincial regions, while 370,000 cars were forecast to travel into the city, according to the Korea Expressway Corp. Heavy southward traffic congestion observed on major highways during the morning started to diminish in the afternoon, and the agency predicted that congestion may fully ease up around 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. As of 5 p.m., the travel time from Seoul to the southeastern port city of Busan had been 4 1/2 hours and 3 1/2 hours to the southern city of Gwangju. Traffic congestion on roads heading back to Seoul is expected to have been at its worst between noon and 1 p.m. and to ease between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m., it added. This year's Lunar New Year falls on Saturday, with the holiday being extended to four days due to Monday becoming a temporary holiday. (Yonhap) Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and other top GOP leaders in the House suggested that President Biden is unfit for the office after a Thursday report from special counsel Robert Hur detailed limitations of the presidents memory. In a joint statement, Johnson, Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.), Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.) and conference Chair Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) charged that the special counsels decision to not charge the president for his handling of classified materials exposes a two-tiered system of justice with politically motivated charges while carrying water for another amid similar allegations a reference to former President Trump, who has been charged by the Department of Justice for his handling of classified documents. But the leaders went further than their typical complaints of differing treatment for Republicans. Among the most disturbing parts of this report is the Special Counsels justification for not recommending charges: namely that the Presidents memory had such significant limitations that he could not convince a jury that the President held a mental state of willfulness that a serious felony requires, the House Republican leadership team said. A man too incapable of being held accountable for mishandling classified information is certainly unfit for the Oval Office, they added. The House GOP leaders blatant questioning of Bidens ability to serve as president shows how the report could be a gift to Republicans, even though it does not recommend charges, as the 81-year-old Biden battles voter discontent regarding his age while facing reelection this year. Hurs report found that while Biden willfully retained classified documents that ended up in an old office space at his home in Wilmington, Del., the evidence does not establish Mr. Bidens guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. In explaining the decision to not bring charges, the report from Hur, who was appointed to his post by Trump in 2017, said that his team considered the fact that Biden would likely present himself to a jury, as he did during our interview of him, as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory. In one particularly brutal section of the report for Biden, the report recounted Bidens difficulty in recalling the exact dates he started and ended his term as vice president, and how he did not remember, even within several years, when his son Beau died. Responding to the special counsel report in a letter, White House special counsel Richard Sauber and Bidens personal counsel Bob Bauer aggressively pushed back on the characterization of Bidens memory, arguing that discussing the impact on a possible jury of Bidens potential testimony is unwarranted since the special counsel said that the evidence does not establish guilt. We do not believe that the reports treatment of President Bidens memory is accurate or appropriate. The report uses highly prejudicial language to describe a commonplace occurrence among witnesses: a lack of recall of years-old events, the letter said. Sauber and Bauer also noted that Bidens interview was conducted the day after the Oct. 7 terror attacks in Israel. Not only do you treat the President differently from other witnesses when discussing his limited recall of certain years-ago events, but you also do so on occasions in prejudicial and inflammatory terms, they said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. From left, Sen. David Bullard, R-Durant, Senate Majority Floor Leader Greg McCortney, R-Ada, and Sen. Casey Murdock, R-Felt, are vying to be the next Senate president pro tempore. Senate Republicans will elect their next leader Monday in a three-way race that has caught the attention of party members and grassroots activists across the state. Although closed-door legislative caucus elections are typically a quiet affair, the election for a new Senate leader has drawn scrutiny from some Republicans outside the Capitol who have criticized the chambers current leadership amid disputes over high-profile legislation. Senate President Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, will be term-limited out of office in November. While he will continue serving as the Senates leader through the current legislative session, Mondays election within the 40-person GOP caucus will determine his successor. Senate Majority Floor Leader Greg McCortney, R-Ada, is running against senators David Bullard, R-Durant, and Casey Murdock, R-Felt. As a key member of Senate leadership, McCortney is the likely front-runner in the race. But hes also facing a barrage of opposition from the conservative wing of his party, including the Oklahoma County GOP chairman and the leaders of some vocal advocacy groups. Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat, left, and Majority Floor Leader Greg McCortney talk with Sen. Julie Daniels, assistant majority whip of the Senate, on Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2023, before the session at the start of the 59th Oklahoma Legislature at the state Capitol. Outside groups get involved in election Influential conservative groups like the Oklahoma Second Amendment Association and Oklahomans for Health and Parental Rights have criticized McCortney for some of the bills hes assigned to committees decisions that effectively killed legislation they support and gave life to bills they oppose. As floor leader, McCortney assigns bills to committees and decides what legislation gets a full Senate vote. Hundreds of bills never get heard each year due to the sheer flood of legislation thats filed. The groups that are planning an advocacy day at the Capitol on Monday to talk to senators about the leadership race have called McCortney a RINO, an acronym for Republican in name only, and criticized him for the Senate not voting on the income tax cuts sought by Gov. Kevin Stitt. McCortney, who is viewed by some as more of a moderate Republican, dismissed the criticism by noting conservative groups have recognized him for advancing their policy priorities. Any claim that I am not a conservative is pretty hard to take with a straight face, he said in an interview. Oklahoma County Republican Party Chairman Ken Warner urged members in a January email to ask their senators to support Bullard in an effort to DRAIN THE CURRENT OKLAHOMA STATE SENATE LEADERSHIP SWAMP! Warner did not respond to a call seeking comment. The groups that are attacking me are not the groups that have been successfully electing Republicans over the last few (election) cycles, McCortney said. Theyre a very loud, very small minority of the Republicans in the state of Oklahoma, and Im confident that the members of this chamber will represent their districts well in this vote. McCortney said his governing style would differ from Treats. While Treats background is in politics, McCortney, the owner of an in-home care service and former Ada mayor, said hes focused on organizational leadership that can improve how the Senate crafts policy. He said he aims to listen to all the members of the Republican caucus and help them be successful. More: Oklahoma election officials ousted after challenging vote tabulation; may face criminal investigation GOP senators mount challenges Bullard and Murdock, who are challenging McCortney from the right, took issue with the Senates frayed relationship with the House. Legislative leaders in the House and Senate have clashed in recent years on some major policy issues, including tax cuts. The House has passed a variety of tax cut bills that have not been heard in the Senate. We have an opportunity to have brand-new leadership in the Senate, said Murdock, the Senates majority whip. We have a good opportunity to start off with a clean slate and put all the bitterness and hard feelings that weve had the last few years behind us and move forward. Bullard, majority caucus vice chair, said he aims to create a strong Senate that doesnt silence some members and the roughly 80,000 Oklahomans they represent due to personality conflicts or ideological disagreements. I think that we dont have a fair system in the Senate right now, Bullard said. Its very, very lopsided. Some (senators) get nothing. Some get everything they want. Theres a balance that we need to strike within the Senate. Oklahomans and their elected senators are becoming more conservative on social issues, and caucus decisions should reflect that shift, Bullard said. Asked about putting tax cut legislation up for a vote in the Senate, McCortney, Bullard and Murdock agreed they would follow the will of their caucus. Could new senators swing the vote? More conservatives have been elected to the Senate in recent years. In December, Lawton-area voters elected far-right conservative Dusty Deevers to fill a vacant Senate seat previously held by a moderate Republican. In 2022, Sen. Dana Prieto, R-Tulsa, successfully flipped a Senate seat previously held by a Democrat. Freshmen senators could play a key role in Mondays election, said Sen. Rob Standridge, R-Norman. Standridge said when he challenged Treat in the 2022 leadership race the caucus vote was nearly tied. He said he thinks grassroots groups have been more vocal about the upcoming election because the last leadership race was so close. Oklahoma Second Amendment Association President Don Spencer said he got involved in the last Senate pro tempore election and at least one House speaker race, but his efforts this year are far more overt. Spencer alleged Senate leadership supports a Democratic bill that would allow undocumented immigrants who pay taxes to get drivers licenses. Previous versions of the proposal have garnered bipartisan support. Spencer also said he has 21 bills assigned to the Senate Public Safety Committee that havent been heard. In 2021, Spencer called for Treat to be ousted from Senate leadership because he refused to hear a bill backed by Spencers group. The Oklahoma Second Amendment Association is supporting Bullard in the election. Spencer said he hopes lawmakers will eventually make their leadership elections public. Our long-term goal is that they can go caucus and do whatever they want in private, but then they come out and do a public vote so we know who our state senator voted for, he said. Former Senate President Pro Tem Brian Bingman said its unfortunate outside interests are getting involved in the election because senators, who should be focused on representing their constituents, can work out their own issues. And what happens in caucus should stay in caucus, he said. Bingman urged senators not to take the outcome of the leadership race personally. You just kind of shake hands and move on, he said. Senate Democrats already elected Sen. Julia Kirt, of Oklahoma City, to be the chambers next minority leader. House Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka, also is in his final year in the Oklahoma Legislature. The House will hold leadership elections later this legislative session. Oklahoma Voice is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Oklahoma Voice maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Janelle Stecklein for questions: info@oklahomavoice.com. Follow Oklahoma Voice on Facebook and Twitter. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Greg McCortney facing opposition in race to replace Greg Treat as pro tem The SEC accused the cryptocurrency company of an ongoing, sprawling, fraudulent securities offering that defrauded investors of at least $49 million in July. The agency suggested individuals associated with DEBT Box were currently in the process of attempting to relocate assets and investor funds overseas and requested a temporary restraining order. The federal judge on the case granted the request, freezing DEBT Boxs assets. But, in late November, the judge reversed the decision and raised concerns that the SEC had made materially false and misleading representations that undermined the integrity of the proceedings. In December, the SEC acknowledged one of its attorneys made a statement at a July hearing that unbeknownst to him at the time, was inaccurate and that its attorneys failed to correct that statement when they learned of the inaccuracy. The SEC filed a motion to dismiss the case last week. In a letter to SEC Chair Gary Gensler on Wednesday, several Senate Republicans decried the agencys conduct. It is unconscionable that any federal agency could operate in such an unethical and unprofessional manner, Sens. JD Vance (R-Ohio), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) and Katie Britt (R-Ala.) wrote. That the Commission counsel could be so unfamiliar with the relevant facts of the case, and that Commission attorneys could have such little regard for the veracity of evidence presented to the Court, is deeply troubling, they added. The senators also said the SECs recent actions raised questions regarding its other enforcement cases. It is difficult to maintain confidence that other cases are not predicated upon dubious evidence, obfuscations, or outright misrepresentations, they wrote. The public must have well-placed confidence in the Commissions enforcement actions, its motives for undertaking them, and its professionalism when carrying them out, the senators added. This trust is undermined, and your mission compromised, by episodes like the DEBT Box case. The Hills Julia Shapero has more here. SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage) The political scene in San Angelo was looking stormy after Texas Gov. Greg Abbott visited the town to advocate for Stormy Bradley, a Republican candidate running against Rep. Drew Darby for the Texas House District 72 seat. Abbott met with San Angelo residents at the Old Central Firehouse Pizzeria and Taproom at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 9, to express his support for Bradley through a rally as part of a barnstorming campaign spanning several of Texas rural communities. Protestors rally for Rep. Darby during Abbott, Bradley remarks Abbotts support for Bradley comes after Darby openly opposed the governors proposed school voucher system, one of the primary focuses of Abbotts political efforts in 2023 and an integral part of his reelection campaigning for the year. Part of a greater education omnibus bill called House Bill 1, the school voucher legislation was designed to allow public funding, including taxpayer dollars, to be spent on providing Texas students with vouchers capable of paying their way into private schools should the student choose to do so. There was also a $7.6 billion boost that Abbott had made conditional on the approval of vouchers included in the bill, according to the Texas Tribune. Darby would be one of the 21 Republican holdouts among the 63 total representatives responsible for voting in favor of an amendment calling for Abbotts school voucher legislation to be removed from the education bill in a vote held on Nov. 17, 2023, forcing Abbott back to the drawing board after approximately 18 months of campaigning and four special sessions. Darby has repeatedly cited several issues he has with the voucher system through statements made with several news outlets. Chief among his concerns are that the vouchers would use taxpayer dollars to fund private schools and that public schools, often the lifeblood of rural communities like the ones he represents, would be jeopardized as a result. Darby and the other 20 Republicans who defied Abbotts voucher system have since been faced with growing retaliation from the governor and his political backers. Mailboxes, TVs and more all across the Lone Star State have been populated with attacks disparaging the holdouts and touting candidates vying for their seats in the Texas House of Representatives in the upcoming March Republican primary. Bradley is one such incumbent challenger whos been endorsed by Abbott. Her campaign has already attempted to take a bite out of Darbys credibility, branding the representative as an establishment Republican who sold out to liberals in Austin in an advertisement released on Jan. 24 titled Disgusted with Drew Darby. The advertisement also accuses Darby of supporting radical transgenderism based on his decision regarding a bill regarding transgender students and bathrooms that became another battleground in the Texas House of Representatives in 2017. According to Bradleys campaign website, she is a sixth-generation Texan, an owner of multiple businesses and a board member of the Coahoma Independent School District. She sympathizes with and supports Abbotts stance on border policies and, when it comes to high school education, believes that we need to invest in vocational education programs so our graduating high-school seniors are prepared to immediately enter the workforce. Darby isnt without supporters of his own, however. Texas Congressman August Pfluger has already endorsed the incumbent House 72 representative even after his open opposition to the governor. Protestors also attended Abbotts rally in San Angelo, many of whom approved of Darbys stance on school vouchers or disapproved of Abbotts push for them. RELATED: Darby endorsed by San Angelo Association of Realtors The odds seem stacked against him, however a recent study conducted by the Hobby School of Public Affairs at the University of Houston found that six in ten (60%) of Republican primary voters would be less likely to vote for an incumbent Texas House representative who cast a legislative vote against school choice/vouchers in 2023. With the clock ticking down until the March Republican primary, Abbott, Bradley and Darby all have their work cut out for them should they wish to sway voters toward their cause. The outcome of their efforts, though, remains in the hands of the people. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com. The Ukrainian government has appointed Oleksandr Porkhun, a veteran of the Russian-Ukrainian war and a Hero of Ukraine, as the acting veterans affairs minister after the resignation of Yuliia Laputina, the ministry reported on Feb. 9. Porkhun previously served as the first deputy of the veterans affairs minister. He is a retired Armed Forces major and former commander of the 13th Separate Airmobile Battalion of the 95th Air Assault Brigade. Porkhun fought against Russian-backed forces during the first invasion of the Donbas in 2014, including in the legendary Battle of Donetsk Airport. He received the title of Hero of Ukraine in 2015 and retired from military service in 2017. Laputina submitted her resignation as the veterans affairs minister on Feb. 5, which was then supported by the parliament. President Volodymyr Zelensky commented on her resignation, saying that Ukraine needs "fresh energy." He discussed "strengthening the state policy on veterans" with Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal on Feb. 5. Members of a public council under the Veterans Affairs Ministry called for Laputina's resignation in December last year. She was criticized for poor communication with veterans, delaying the creation of a national military memorial cemetery, and the low quality of her experimental Veteran's Helper program. The Veterans Affairs Ministry was created in 2018, four years after Russia first invaded Donbas and illegally annexed Crimea, in order to implement state policy on social protections for war veterans. Former Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov said in August 2023 that around a million Ukrainians had become combat veterans since the Russian invasion of Donbas in 2014. Read also: Who is General Syrskyi, Ukraines new chief commander? Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Vice President Kamala Harris on Friday defended President Joe Biden after the release of a special counsel report that questioned the presidents memory, calling the report gratuitous, inaccurate and inappropriate. Speaking at a community violence prevention program at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Harris condemned Special Counsel Robert Hurs claim that Biden's memory is poor. As a former prosecutor herself, Harris said, the special counsel should have had more integrity. The way that the presidents demeanor in that report was characterized could not be more wrong on the facts and clearly politically motivated, Harris said in response to a question at the end of her remarks. And so I will say that when it comes to the role and responsibility of a prosecutor in a situation like that, we should expect that there would be a higher level of integrity than what we saw. Hurs report, which was released Thursday, found that Biden willfully retained and disclosed classified information but that criminal charges werent warranted. The report also said Biden had a poor memory and that he couldnt recall when his son Beau died, which prompted a fiery response from Biden during a Thursday night press conference. The government is not considering increasing cigarette prices despite falling tax revenue, according to officials Friday. Some media reports have raised the possibility of the government increasing cigarette prices after the April election as it has experienced a shortfall in tax revenue amid an economic slowdown. Last year, South Korea's total revenue, including tax gains, fell 77 trillion won ($57.9 billion), as tax gains fell 51.9 trillion won from a year earlier due mainly to weak corporate performance and the sagging real estate market, according to government data. "It is not true that the government is reviewing any increase in cigarette prices or adjustment in tobacco tax rates. We have no such plan even after the general election in April," a finance ministry official said. The ministry plans to hold a meeting with officials in the tobacco industry and deliver "such a firm stance" once again, another official said. In 2015, the government last raised the price of cigarettes by 80 percent to 4,500 won per pack, citing the need for more efforts to reduce smoking and better promote public health. Of the price, more than 70 percent is for tobacco consumption, value-added and various other taxes. In 2021, the health ministry announced a plan to raise the price further to around 8,000 won over the decade to come, saying the average per-pack price in member nations of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development is around $7. Following the price hike in 2015, tobacco taxes collected have been on a constant rise from 7 trillion won in 2014 to 10.5 trillion won in 2015 and further to 11.2 trillion won in 2017. The amount came to 11.8 trillion won in 2022. The smoking rate among Korean men aged 19 or older had come to a record low of 19.3 percent as of 2021, Sales of cigarettes in South Korea inched down for the first time in four years in 2013, but sales of duty-free cigarettes surged 60.7 percent year-on-year and demand for electronic cigarettes advanced 12.6 percent, the government data showed. (Yonhap) GOP presidential candidate Nikki Haley described the special counsel report on President Bidens handling of classified documents unbelievably disturbing in an interview late Thursday. It is unbelievably disturbing that they are showing that they see Biden to not have a good memory, that they see him as diminished, that they see that its a problem, and they point-blank say that, Haley said in the interview on Fox Newss Hannity. I mean, this is actually dangerous. Look, people make fun of the fact that I say we need to have mental competency tests. Theres a reason 70 percent of Americans dont wanna see a Biden-Trump rematch, Haley said, referring to former President Trump, the current GOP front-runner. The party that gets rid of their 80-year-old candidate is gonna be the party that wins. The report from special counsel Robert Hur, released earlier Thursday, concluded that no charges should be brought against the president, but it did note that Biden had problems with memory and recall. We have also considered that, at trial, Mr. Biden would likely present himself to a jury, as he did during our interview of him, as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory, Hur wrote. Based on our direct interactions with and observations of him, he is someone for whom many jurors will want to identify reasonable doubt. It would be difficult to convince a jury that they should convict him by then a former president well into his eighties of a serious felony that requires a mental state of willfulness. Biden hit back at the report in a fiery press conference Thursday night, defending his memory and mental capability. My memorys fine. Take a look at what Ive done since I became president. How did that happen? I guess I just forgot what was going on, he said. Biden during the press conference did confuse the leaders of Mexico and Egypt. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. President Yoon Suk Yeol held a breakfast meeting with sanitation workers of a Seoul district, Friday to wish them a happy Lunar New Year and thank them for their hard work, his office said. During his meeting with street sweepers of Dongjak in southern Seoul, Yoon asked them about their working conditions over bowls of "tteokguk," a soup made with rice cakes, often eaten on the holiday. Yoon thanked them for starting work in the early morning hours, even on holidays, and stressed that their safety should be prioritized. "The most important thing in the new year is your safety," Yoon was quoted as saying. "You are devoting yourselves to society and your 'devotion' should never become a 'sacrifice' due to safety accidents." Yoon instructed Environment Minister Han Wha-jin and Dongjak District office chief Park Il-ha, who also attended the meeting, to look into the safety of sanitation workers. He also pledged to review the feedback from the street sweepers and reflect it in his policies. (Yonhap) Nikki Haley isnt discouraged by her lackluster showing in GOP races against former President Trump. In fact, she says her continued quest for the presidential nomination is helping strengthen the Republican Party. Telling the truth in a primary is very important, so thats what Im doing, she said in an interview with The Wall Street Journal this week. Haley, who served as the first United Nations ambassador in Trumps administration starting in 2017, said shes not worried about alienating Trump supporters as she continues to question Trumps age and ability to hold a second term. Im strengthening the party because I bring more people into the Republican Party, instead of pushing people away like Trump, Haley, 52, told the Journal. Trump, 77, has said he thinks Haleys campaign is misguided and hurting the GOP. Some Republicans who side with Trump have urged her to get out of the race. Its bad for the party. I think its actually bad for her, too, Trump told reporters Thursday in Florida. The Hill/Decision Desk HQ tracking of polls across the country shows Trump with a strong advantage in the primary race. Trump is leading by 32 percentage points in the tracking sites analysis of 37 polls in the upcoming Feb. 24 primary in Haleys home state of South Carolina. Trump also has a strong lead in next-up Michigan. Haley is the last remaining major challenger to Trump on the GOP ballot, after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and others bowed out of the race. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Nikki Haley went after both of her presidential election rivals on Thursday, joking that former President Trump should hire President Bidens legal team after a federal special counsel declined to charge Biden with crimes related to holding classified documents. Trump himself faces criminal charges related to illegally holding classified documents after he left the White House. The special counsel in the Biden investigation said Biden did hold documents, but that his actions were not criminal. The double standard is glaring. Both Joe Biden and Donald Trump were reckless with classified documents, Haley said on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. If Bidens defense is old age and forgetfulness, Trump can easily make the same claim. Trump should quickly hire Bidens lawyers. The Biden special counsel described the president as an elderly man with a poor memory in declining to charge him, a characterization Bidens attorneys disputed. The special counsel said Biden at times forgot what years he served as vice president, and the exact year his son died. Trump has been hit with similar claims of old age taking its toll on memory and behavior. Either of the likely candidates, 81-year-old Biden or 79-year-old Trump, would be the oldest president in U.S. history at the end of a second term. Haley has honed in on the age argument against Trump, claiming that the former president isnt the same man that she supported in 2016 and that she represents a new, younger generation of GOP leaders. She trails Trump significantly in national polls but has pinned her hopes on a strong South Carolina primary finish. A home state win for the former Palmetto State governor could turn the tides of the GOP primary, which has so far favored Trump by a wide margin. Doubling down on Biden, Haley said Thursday that the president should take a mental competency test, a demand she first made when she launched her presidential campaign last year. Joe Biden cant remember major events in his life, like when he was vice president or when his son died, Haley said in a statement from her campaign. That is sad, but it will be even sadder if we have a person in the White House who is not mentally up to the most important job in the world. Joe Biden should take a mental competency test immediately, and it should be shared with the public. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Harmony Montgomerys stepmother took the stand on Friday, describing the evil crazy eyes look on her estranged husbands face when she tried to stop him from hitting his 5-year-old daughter for having a bathroom accident in the car. I couldn't stop him from hitting her. The look he gave me was scary. I was scared, Kayla Montgomery told Hillsborough County Superior Court jurors on Friday about the December 2019 incident. He said, I think I really hurt her. I felt something. Kayla said the abuse had started early that morning and continued after she and her estranged husband, Adam Montgomery, went to a methadone clinic and headed to Burger King. Each time the family stopped at a red light, she said, Montgomery would go between the seats and punch his daughter in the head. Adam kept saying, Shut the fuck up. Stop crying, she said, adding that her children were in the car. Adam Montgomery Ate Fast Food After Fatal Blow to 5-Year-Old Daughter: Prosecutor She said Montgomery stopped smacking his daughter as the family went through the Burger King drive-thru and ate in the parking lot, but Harmony continued to moan under a blanket. It wasnt until the familys car broke down at a traffic light that Adam Montgomery checked on his daughter. He said, Harmony, and kept saying, baby girl, tried to budge her. There was nothing, Kayla said. He took the duffle bag in the trunk and put her in the duffle bag. Kayla, 33, is currently in prison for lying to a grand jury about her whereabouts when Harmony went missing. At first, she said her husband had dropped her off at her shift at Dunkin Donuts and taken Harmony to her biological mothers home. She has since recanted her statement, telling jurors on Friday that she lied at Montgomerys direction. "I was scared for myself and my children and for Adam, because I didn't want anyone to get in trouble and I was scared," she said. Adam Montgomery was not in court on Friday, marking the third day he did not attend his murder trial. He has pleaded not guilty to several charges, including second-degree murder, in connection with Harmonys Dec. 7, 2019, death. During opening statements this week, his lawyers told jurors Montgomery will admit to two charges: abuse of a corpse and falsifying physical evidence. Defense lawyers on Thursday argued that while Montgomery should be convicted for his efforts to conceal and dispose of Harmonys body, it is Kayla who is responsible for the childs murder. Only she knows the truth. And only she has benefited from all the lies she has told, public defender James T. Brooks said. Prosecutors previously described the pattern of abuse Harmony suffered at the hands of her father after she moved in with him in the summer of 2019. Kayla also described the abuse, including one July 2019 incident in which Adam gave Harmony a black eye. When the family was evicted from their home and forced to live in the car, Kayla said, Harmony started having daily bathroom accidents that enraged her father. He would smack her in the face, legs, hand after an accident, Kayla said of the abuse. She would cry whenever she got smacked by him. I could hear it. It sounded like it hurt. I heard the smack and the crying. When he hit her she got black eyes and bruises on her body, she added. In public, he would cover her with a comforter in the car, so no one would see her. After the murder, prosecutors allege, Montgomery hid his daughters body in multiple locations, including the ceiling vent of a family homeless shelter, before disposing of her in March 2020. He allegedly butchered her body and used lime to accelerate the decomposition process, prosecutors said. You could smell a horrible smell that was coming through the vents, Kayla said about Harmonys hidden remains, adding that they left after the homeless shelter residents complained. Prosecutors say that Montgomerys friend rented him a U-Haul that he allegedly used to move Harmonys remains in the middle of the night. MassDOT records show that the U-Haul was captured on video crossing the Tobin Bridge in Boston at around 4:44 a.m. and returning about an hour later. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Adam Montgomerys estranged wife laid out her demands to betray him in a prison letter to prosecutors that his defence attorneys introduced during his New Hampshire trial. Kayla Montgomery, the prosecutions key witness, took the stand on Friday to testify about the way her husband allegedly murdered his five-year-old daughter Harmony in December 2019. Kayla, Harmonys stepmother, is serving an 18-month prison sentence on perjury charges for lying to police about Harmonys whereabouts. According to prosecutors, Montgomery fatally hit his daughter in the head after she soiled herself while in the car Harmony, Kayla, and the couples two infant sons lived out of. The little girls death went unreported for two years until authorities in Manchester launched an investigation in 2021 following desperate attempts by Harmonys mother to get in touch with her. Harmonys remains were relocated several times first stored in a cooler at the home of Kaylas mother, later to a ceiling vent at a shelter the family lived in and even taken to Montgomerys workplace before Montgomery made efforts to destroy the body and dispose of it in March 2021. Refuting Kaylas version of the events leading up to Harmonys death, the defence has alleged that the minor actually died under her stepmothers care and that Montgomery only went along with plans to dispose of the body to protect Kayla and their two infant sons. On Friday, defence attorney Caroline Smith introduced a note Kayla wrote while in prison in 2022 following an arrest on theft charges for collecting welfare benefits for Harmony. Ms Smith read the letter out loud, including excerpts in which Kayla wrote that she wanted immunity and custody of her children if she was going to come forward to authorities with information about Harmonys murder. Among other demands, Kayla also wrote that she wanted to see Montgomery one last time, kiss him, and maybe make love to him, Ms Smith said casting doubt on the prosecutions argument that Kayla initially lied to officials because she was being threatened by Montgomery. What you didnt write was protection from Adam, what you didnt write was that you were afraid of Adam, Ms Smith asked. You just wanted to be with him before you, as you put it, betray him, right? I wasnt thinking about that .... yes, Kayla answered. Ms Smith also confronted Kayla about the lies she told a grand jury last year, which ultimately led to perjury charges she was convicted on. At the time, Kayla had maintained that she last saw Harmony shortly before Thanksgiving when Montgomery reportedly dropped her off at the home of the childs mother. You talked to the jury with a straight face about what she was wearing, Ms Smith said. Even though the Star Wars hoodie [you saw her wearing] was what you cut off her body in the shower at Union Square Avenue. Kayla claimed that she was terrified Montgomery would hurt her or their children and that she also did not want to lose custody of them. Elsewhere in her testimony, she described in grim detail the harrowing ways that Montgomery used to destroy his daughters body. Montgomery, who only attended jury selection on Tuesday but has waived his right to appear at his trial, faces one count of second-degree murder in Harmonys killing. Earlier this week, he said that he intended to plead guilty to charges of abuse of a corpse and falsifying information. His trial resumes on Monday. WASHINGTON (AP) Vice President Kamala Harris on Friday slammed the report by a Justice Department special counsel into Joe Biden's mishandling of classified documents that raised questions about the president's memory, calling it politically motivated and gratuitous," as the White House said the president would take steps to safeguard classified materials during presidential transitions. The report from Robert Hur, the former Maryland U.S. Attorney selected by Attorney General Merrick Garland to investigate Biden found evidence that Biden willfully held onto and shared with a ghostwriter highly classified information, but laid out why he did not believe the evidence met the standard for criminal charges, including a high probability that the Justice Department would not be able to prove Bidens intent beyond a reasonable doubt. The White House has said Biden erred in having the documents in his home and Ian Sams, a spokesperson for the White House counsel's office, said on Friday that Biden would soon name a task force to ensure that there are better processes in place to protect classified materials when administrations change. The Hur report described the 81-year-old Democrats memory as hazy, fuzzy, faulty, poor and having significant limitations. It noted that Biden could not recall defining milestones in his own life such as when his son Beau died or when he served as vice president. Asked whether the White House would release a copy of the transcript of Biden's interview with Hur that could dispute Hur's characterizations, Sams said parts of it were classified, but that if parts of it could be declassified, well take a look at that and make a determination. Taking a question from a reporter at the conclusion of a gun violence prevention event at the White House, Harris said that as a former prosecutor, she considered Hur's comments "gratuitous, inaccurate, and inappropriate. She noted that Biden's two-day sit-down with Hur occurred just after the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas on Israel, where more than 1,200 people were killed and about 250 were taken hostage including many Americans. It was an intense moment for the commander in chief of the United States of America," Harris said, saying she spent countless hours with Biden and other officials in the days that followed and he was on top of it all. She added that "the way that the president's demeanor in that report was characterized could not be more wrong on the facts and clearly politically motivated, gratuitous. Harris concluded saying a special counsel should have a "higher level of integrity than what we saw. Her comments came a day after Biden insisted that his "memory is fine." and grew visibly angry at the White House, as he denied forgetting when his son died. Beau Biden died of brain cancer in 2015 at the age of 46. Sams suggested that the political environment led Hur, who was appointed as U.S. attorney by former President Donald Trump, to include the comments. Theres an environment that we are in, that generates a ton of pressure, because you have congressional Republicans, other Republicans, attacking prosecutors that they dont like, he said. Vice President Harris will travel to Munich for an annual gathering on international security issues as a White House push for aid to Ukraine and Israel has stalled in Congress. Harris will attend the Munich Security Conference for a third consecutive year, attending the event Feb. 15-17, her office announced. While there, she will deliver a major foreign policy speech and meet with foreign leaders to discuss the situations in Ukraine and the Middle East. Throughout her engagements, the Vice President will underscore the importance of sustaining U.S. leadership, strengthening our alliances and partnerships, and defending international rules and norms, Harriss communications director, Kirsten Allen, said in a statement. The vice presidents travel comes as the Biden administration is balancing support for allies in two separate conflicts but getting little help from Congress. The White House has for months urged lawmakers to pass additional funding for Ukraine in its war against Russia. The administration issued its last round of security assistance in December, but officials have said they cannot provide more aid without action from Congress. The White House has packaged its Ukraine aid request with an ask for additional funding to support Israel in its war against Hamas. The Senate voted Thursday to advance a $95 billion emergency security spending bill with funding for Ukraine, Israel, Indo-Pacific security and humanitarian assistance for civilians around the world. The Senate still needs to hold at least five more votes to pass funding for Ukraine and Israel and send it to the House, where it faces a rocky road with Republicans, who have been skeptical of approving more aid for Ukraine. Republicans in the House also failed to pass an Israel-only funding bill earlier this week. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Republican strategist Scott Jennings said Vice President Harris is now squarely a campaign issue, in the wake of a special counsel report on President Bidens retention of classified documents released Thursday. I would say and I dont know how many people on this panel believe it there arent too many Americans who are going to look at this and say, This guy is up to serving for five more years as president of the United States, Jennings said on CNNs NewsNight in a clip first highlighted by Mediaite. I think Vice President Harris became, squarely, an issue in this election today, Jennings continued. She already was getting there, and now, its even more important. Harris has a 40 percent approval rating, as of late January, according to a Los Angeles Times tracker of polls on her favorability. In an NBC News poll last summer, her approval was only 31 percent, a record low for vice presidents. The report from special counsel Robert Hur, released Thursday, concluded no charges should be brought against the president, but it noted Biden had problems with memory and recall. We have also considered that, at trial, Mr. Biden would likely present himself to a jury, as he did during our interview of him, as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory, Hur wrote. Based on our direct interactions with and observations of him, he is someone for whom many jurors will want to identify reasonable doubt. It would be difficult to convince a jury that they should convict him by then a former president well into his eighties of a serious felony that requires a mental state of willfulness. Biden hit back at the report in a fiery press conference Thursday night, defending his memory and mental capability. My memorys fine. Take a look at what Ive done since I became president. How did that happen? I guess I just forgot what was going on, he said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Harry Belafontes daughters have criticised the 2024 Grammys for not including their late father, the Grammy-winning singer and activist who died aged 96 in April 2023, in a special tribute during the ceremony. Midway through the Sunday (4 February) awards show, Annie Lennox, Stevie Wonder, Fantasia Barrino and Jon Batiste took to the stage to honour some of the major music industry titans who had passed away in 2023. During their performances, photos of other artists who had died last year were displayed on-screen behind them. Among those commemorated were Sinead OConnor, Tina Turner, Tony Bennett and Clarence Avant. While an image of Belafonte was briefly shown on the screen as Batiste performed Frank Sinatra and Count Basies 1959 hit The Best Is Yet to Come, his two daughters felt the tribute fell short. Shari, 69, and Gina, 62, took to social media to say that they felt their Banana Boat (Day-O) singer father should have received a special standout tribute similar to those that honoured Turner, OConnor, Bennett and Avant. While the folks who had a bit more of a #shoutout on the #GrammyAwards this year were absolutely deserving of accolades, Im a bit appalled that our father was not included in a #SpecialTribute and Im not just saying that because he was our father, Shari wrote on Facebook. #HarryBelafonte was the very FIRST recipient of a platinum record. Was the very FIRST Black man to get an #Emmy. Is one of 20 people to have an #EGOT. Harry is THE one who created #WeAreTheWorld, and yes, I was at the table when he first pitched the idea to Ken Kragen. Harry Belafonte (Getty) She added: While no doubt, Tony Bennett and Tina Turner were special indeed, Harry contributed far more to society and the music industry than those two put together, in my humble opinion. The Grammys missed a major moment. In a similar Facebook post alongside a photo of Belafonte, Gina said: Love @itstonybennett Love @tinaturner Love @sinadeocconor. Why the @recordingacademy Chose not to do a special tribute to you I will #never understand! So here is my Grammy tribute to you dad! So many winners youve mentored! So many winners you shared your stage with. You are the winner @theharrybelafonte and we are better because of your contribution! Belafontes career breakthrough album Calypso (1956) was the first million-selling LP by a single artist. The Independent has contacted the Grammys Recording Academy for comment. Belafonte, who passed away in Manhattan on 25 April 2023, is widely considered the most successful Caribbean-American pop star. He is credited with bringing the Calypso musical style from its Trinidad and Tobago roots to an international audience in the 1950s. He is survived by his third wife, photographer Pamela Frank, four children Adrienne, Shari, David and Gina and five grandchildren. Four political parties and factions led by politicians who have left the ruling People Power Party (PPP) and the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) have agreed to merge into one new party ahead of the April general election, officials said Friday. The envisioned party, named the Reform Party, will be jointly led by former Prime Minister and DPK leader Lee Nak-yon and former PPP leader Lee Jun-seok, according to the officials. Lee, the former DPK leader, will lead the new party's election preparation committee. The move comes as political watchers have keenly followed whether the political parties will unite under the so-called big tent ahead of the parliamentary elections just two months away. An official ceremony marking the merger is set to take place after the Lunar New Year holiday. (Yonhap) FILE - Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump speaks at a campaign event Jan. 27, 2024, in Las Vegas. Even without Donald Trump on Nevadas Republican ballot, Nikki Haley was still denied her first victory. The indignity of a distant second-place finish behind none of these candidates was a blow for Haley facilitated by the staunch Trump allies who lead Nevadas GOP. They had already maneuvered to ensure Trump has a lock on the states 26 delegates, who will be awarded in caucuses on Thursday where he faces only token opposition. (AP Photo/John Locher, File) ORG XMIT: WX507 The claim: Hawaii passed bill to remove Trump A Feb. 6 article by the Gateway Pundit claims legislation purportedly passed in Hawaii will heavily impact the upcoming presidential election. "Hawaii Democrats Pass Bill to Remove President Trump from Ballot," reads the article's headline. Similar versions of the claim were shared on Instagram, Facebook and X, formerly Twitter. More from the Fact-Check Team: How we pick and research claims | Email newsletter | Facebook page Our rating: Partly false A bill that could disqualify Trump passed through its first vote in Hawaii's Senate and the Senate Judiciary Committee, but it still has to pass through several more votes in the Senate, House and committees before it could be signed into law by the governor. And the bill does not name Donald Trump. The article originated from a website that regularly publishes false and exaggerated claims. Bill is far from becoming a law Hawaii is one of the latest states to attempt to remove the former president from the upcoming election ballot. Of the dozens of challenges to Trump filed around the country, Colorado is the only state that has succeeded in court so far. The Supreme Court is reviewing the case. The Hawaii bill, SB2392, doesn't directly name Trump but would exclude candidates that violated Section 3 of the 14th Amendment or Article 16, Section 3 of the Hawaii State Constitution from running for office. Both sections bar those who have engaged in or attempted to engage in insurrections or rebellions against the state from becoming government officials. This could potentially apply to Trump, but the senator who introduced the bill, Democrat Karl Rhoads, told the Honolulu Star-Advertiser the bill would apply to all candidates. "If Joe Biden participates in an insurrection, it would apply to him, too," Rhoads said. SB2392 passed through its first reading in the Senate on Jan. 22 and passed the Senate Judiciary Committee on Feb. 6, but it has not yet been signed into law as the Gateway Pundit article suggests. Fact check: Trump defamation trial delayed because of sick juror, not linked to NH primary To become a law, the bill will have to go through two more rounds of voting in the Senate and any committees it's referred to before being sent to the House and going through the same process there, according to the process laid out by Hawaii's Legislative Reference Bureau. If any changes are made to the bill while passing through the House, it will have to be sent back to the Senate for approval of the amendments. Only after the bill passes through all these stages can it be sent to the governor to be either vetoed or signed into law. USA TODAY has debunked an array of false claims from the Gateway Pundit, including claims that a software companys contract allows officials to override election results, that Biden gave the World Health Organization full authority over U.S. pandemic policies and that George Soros endorsed Ron DeSantis for president. USA TODAY reached out to the Gateway Pundit but did not immediately receive a response. The Associated Press also debunked the claim. Our fact-check sources: Thank you for supporting our journalism. You can subscribe to our print edition, ad-free app or e-newspaper here. USA TODAY is a verified signatory of the International Fact-Checking Network, which requires a demonstrated commitment to nonpartisanship, fairness and transparency. Our fact-check work is supported in part by a grant from Meta. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Article misrepresents status of Hawaii ballot bill | Fact check Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) has proposed adding an amendment to the Senates supplemental foreign aid package expanding compensation for Americans exposed to radiation after a similar amendment was stripped from a national Defense package last year. The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA), enacted three decades ago, compensates those exposed to radiation from World War II-era nuclear testing and ore mining. However, it only makes that compensation available to claimants exposed to radiation in Utah, Nevada and Arizona. It does not extend to the families of those living in New Mexico, the site of the 1945 Trinity atomic test, or Missouri, where runoff from wartime uranium processing heavily contaminated St. Louiss Coldwater Creek. Hundreds of thousands of people, who depend on this program for lifesaving help, will be left literally to die if this program expires. And the people around me that you see will get no help unless we do something, Hawley said at the U.S. Capitol Thursday, accompanied by local advocates. President Biden extended the law for two years in 2022, when it was set to expire. Both amendments co-sponsored by Hawley would extend it another 19 years. An earlier RECA expansion amendment, co-sponsored by Hawley and Sens. Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) and Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), passed the Senate with a supermajority last year as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), but was removed during conference with House leaders. That amendment would have expanded the laws coverage to those in New Mexico, Missouri, Idaho, Montana, Guam and Colorado. Hawleys amendment this week would expand it further to Tennessee, Kentucky and Alaska. The Missouri senator singled Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) for the removal of the NDAA amendment, saying in December that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) said McConnell went to him and said I dont want RECA in there. I want to get rid of it, From the very beginning, it was like McConnells going to be a problem. Updated at 12:41 p.m. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. AUSTIN (KXAN) On Friday, Hays County announced its health department now has a behavioral health coordinator position to address mental health and substance abuse outside of the criminal justice system. The county said the new coordinator would form a behavioral health program, which would be responsible for identifying and coordinating mental health resources available in the county. This position will address mental health disparities that can exist in the places where we live, work, learn and play. It will develop a roadmap for how the county address[es] mental health in the future, Matthew Gonzales, the Hays County Health Department manager, said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. Johan van Overtveldt, MEP and chairman of the European Parliament's Budget Committee, believes that the approved 50 billion in EU aid to Ukraine is not enough, and it will need another 22 billion. Source: The Guardian with reference to the words of the MEP Details: According to conservative estimates, Ukraine's non-military needs amount to 3 billion a month. This adds up to 36 billion over the course of a year. The 50 billion envisaged in the Ukraine Facility covers four years, from 2024 to 2027. On average, Ukraine will have access to 12.5 billion per year. Quote: "The deal between the EU and the United States was that each would take care of half of what Ukraine needs, meaning 18bn Euros from the EU and US each. The Ukraine Facility will thus annually be at least 5.5bn Euros short of what the EUs commitment was," van Overtveldt said. Thus, the deficit will be 22 billion over the entire period of 2024-2027, he explained. The Ukraine Facility is a financial assistance package approved by the European Union for Ukraine in 2024. The total amount of assistance is 50 billion and it will be disbursed over four years, from 2024 to 2027. Reminder: On 1 February, EU leaders overcame Hungary's long-standing opposition and reached an agreement to provide 50 billion in macro-financial assistance to Ukraine. Support UP or become our patron! Head of the Ukrainian Center for Security and Cooperation Serhiy Kuzan said that new tasks facing Ukraine and the frontline in 2024 led to the appointment of Oleksandr Syrskyi as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Radio NV on Feb. 9. "General Zaluzhnyi's first statement after his resignation was to point out that each stage of the war requires a different approach, and the war of 2022 is different from the war of 2024, Kuzan said Of course, there is a competition between visions, and for each vision, someone must be selected to implement it. This does not mean that someone is worse or that someone is better or that there are any political intrigues." February and March will be difficult for the frontline, Kuzan notes, but Syrsky has successful defensive and offensive campaigns to his credit. Read also: Defense Minister introduced new Armed Forces chief at General Staff meeting "We see that we have a shortage of ammunition and that Western aid is not coming in sufficient quantities, he explained. In particular, in the east, there are constant attacks, constant pressure, the Russians are trying to break our front, from Kupiansk to Vuhledar. Such difficult times require tough guys, of course. Undoubtedly, Commander Syrsky is one of them." On Feb. 8, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy issued a decree dismissing Zaluzhnyi from the post of Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. In his place, he appointed Commander of Land Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi. Valerii Zaluzhnyi had been the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces for more than two and a half years. He was appointed to the post in July 2021. Read also: General Syrskyi is willing to engage the enemy, even if the cost in men and machines is high the Economist The Economist reports that Syrskyi has a reputation for being ready to engage the enemy, even if it requires a lot of manpower and equipment losses. The Guardian wrote that Syrsky was responsible for the defense of Kyiv, but later took part in the battle for Bakhmut, which was criticized by the United States. 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 Xi takes part in Spring Festival gathering with non-CPC members Xinhua) 09:37, February 09, 2024 BEIJING, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- As the Spring Festival of the Year of the Dragon is just around the corner, Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, took part in a gathering with leading officials of the non-CPC political parties' central committees and the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce (ACFIC) and representatives of personages without party affiliation at the Great Hall of the People on the afternoon of Feb. 7 to greet the upcoming festival. On behalf of the CPC Central Committee, Xi extended festive greetings and best wishes to people from the non-CPC political parties and the ACFIC, personages without party affiliation, and other members of the united front. The gathering was also attended by Wang Huning, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), Cai Qi, director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, and Ding Xuexiang, vice premier of the State Council. They are all members of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee. Those attending the gathering on invitation included Zheng Jianbang, chairman of the Central Committee of the Revolutionary Committee of the Chinese Kuomintang, Ding Zhongli, chairman of the Central Committee of the China Democratic League, Hao Mingjin, chairman of the Central Committee of the China National Democratic Construction Association, Cai Dafeng, chairman of the Central Committee of the China Association for Promoting Democracy, He Wei, chairman of the Central Committee of the Chinese Peasants and Workers Democratic Party, Jiang Zuojun, chairman of the Central Committee of the China Zhi Gong Party, Wu Weihua, chairman of the Central Committee of the Jiusan Society, Su Hui, chairwoman of the Central Committee of the Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League, Gao Yunlong, chairman of the ACFIC, and Tao Zhi, a representative of personages without party affiliation. Ho Hau Wah and Leung Chun-ying, vice chairpersons of the CPPCC National Committee, former chairpersons of the central committees of the non-CPC political parties and of the ACFIC, and first vice-chairpersons and executive vice-chairpersons of the central committees of the non-CPC political parties and of the ACFIC, who have retired from the leadership, were also invited to attend the gathering. Hao spoke on behalf of central committees of the non-CPC political parties, the ACFIC and prominent figures without party affiliation. He said that over the past year 2023, in the face of a grave and complicated situation along with multiple difficulties and challenges, the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core coordinated national imperatives with a broad and long-term vision, united and led the Chinese people of all ethnic groups in meeting obstacles and difficulties head-on, working hard despite pressure, and forging ahead with enterprise and fortitude. As a result, the country has made solid progress in advancing Chinese modernization. China of the new era is renewing itself day by day, drawing ever closer to its great dream. In the new year, they should rally more closely around the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core. With shared conviction and concerted efforts, they should make new and greater contributions to the building of a strong country and the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. After listening to Hao's speech, Xi gave an important address. He noted that 2023 was an extraordinary year. Throughout the year, the CPC Central Committee united and led the whole Party and Chinese people of all ethnic groups in implementing the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress on all fronts. Adhering to the general principle of seeking progress while maintaining stability, we faced external pressures head-on, overcame internal difficulties, and vigorously advanced the recovery and development of the economy. We realized our expected goals for economic and social development, ensuring a smooth start and making numerous achievements. We addressed challenges with targeted solutions, firmly promoting high-quality development and facilitating the overall recovery and the positive trend of our country's economy. The total economic output for the year exceeded 126 trillion yuan, with employment and price levels remaining generally stable. We accelerated the improvement of the new system for mobilizing resources nationwide, made new breakthroughs in scientific and technological innovation, and promoted the development of new productive forces. China successfully hosted the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation and the China-Central Asia Summit, and promoted the membership expansion of BRICS. Major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics has increasingly demonstrated its strong influence, appeal and shaping power. We effectively responded to a series of major natural disasters such as the floods in North and Northeast China and the earthquakes in Gansu, Qinghai and Xinjiang. We successfully hosted the Universiade in Chengdu and the Asian Games in Hangzhou, and Chinese athletes achieved good results. These achievements are the result of the strong leadership of the Communist Party of China and the hard work and joint efforts of all sectors, including the non-CPC political parties, the ACFIC, and personages without party affiliation. Xi noted that the other political parties and personages without party affiliation, over the past year, thoroughly studied and implemented the Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era and the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress, and carried out the study program of "Enhancing Cohesion and Forging the Party's Soul to Strive in Solidarity on Our New Journey" in a solid manner. They grasped the opportunities from marking the 75th anniversary of the issue of "May 1 Slogans" by the CPC Central Committee, deepened the political transition, and constantly consolidated the ideological and political consensus of multiparty cooperation. He added that they remained committed to focusing on the central task and serving the big picture, and put forward suggestions and proposals on the major and challenging issues in the process of advancing Chinese modernization, having thus contributed to the economic and social development. The ACFIC was proactive in cooperating with relevant departments and local authorities to implement the policies for facilitating the high-quality development of the private sector, and has done a lot of work in facilitating the healthy development of the non-public sector and those working in it. He expressed heartfelt thanks to them all on behalf of the CPC Central Committee. Xi stressed that 2024 marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, and is a critical year for fulfilling the goals and tasks in the 14th Five-Year Plan. It is important to act on the general principle of pursuing progress while ensuring stability, maintain stability through progress and build the new before discarding the old. We will consolidate and strengthen the momentum of rebound and improvement of the economy, continuously pursue higher-quality growth and appropriately increase economic output, and make solid progress in advancing Chinese modernization. All other political parties, the ACFIC and personages without party affiliation should fully understand the CPC Central Committee's decisions and plans, make greater efforts in conducting fact-finding missions, consultation, deliberation and democratic oversight, and improve themselves, so as to contribute wisdom and endeavor to advancing Chinese modernization. Xi put forward three hopes for the other political parties, the ACFIC and personages without party affiliation. First, they should maintain firm confidence in China's political system to uphold, develop and improve China's new type of political party system. They should improve the quality of consultations among political parties, and strengthen deliberation mechanisms as well as those of offering advice to the government. Democratic oversight should be conducted in an orderly way, and the platforms for giving play to their strengths should be expanded in order to improve the effectiveness of China's new type of political party system. Second, they should build a broad consensus to advance Chinese modernization. They should continue conducting in-depth fact-finding missions concerning the major strategic tasks proposed at the 20th CPC National Congress and the arrangements made at the Central Economic Work Conference to offer more targeted suggestions and advice. The ACFIC should guide private entrepreneurs to consolidate their confidence in development and collectively advocate for the bright future of China's economy. Third, political guidance should be strengthened to continuously achieve a higher level of self-development. The primary task is to strengthen the building of ideological and political awareness, follow the correct political direction, and solidify the ideological and political foundation of the CPC leadership. It is imperative to improve their conduct, build their leadership teams, consolidate their organizations, and effectively improve the way of thinking and working so as to steadily improve their capability and level of performance. After the gathering, Xi and other Party and state leaders posed for a group photo with former and incumbent leading officials of the other political parties' central committees and the ACFIC, and representatives of personages without party affiliation. Leading officials from relevant central Party departments attended the gathering. (Web editor: Cai Hairuo, Zhong Wenxing) Experts in Ukrainian laws give legal advice to builders, manufacturers By Park Jae-hyuk Competition is heating up among major law firms in Korea to take the lead in the market for legal services offered to Korean companies interested in the post-war reconstruction of Ukraine, according to industry officials, Thursday. With their diplomatic experts and lawyers having knowledge of Ukrainian laws, Korean law firms have vied to attract domestic construction firms and manufacturers that seek to rebuild the war-torn countrys infrastructure, which is expected to be worth around $900 billion. Just after the war broke out two years ago, the law firms apparently focused more on giving legal advice for Korean companies in Russia to avoid fallout from international sanctions. However, they shifted their focus to Ukraine last year, as expectations are growing over a ceasefire and more Korean companies have suspended their operations in Russia or left the country. Yulchon, one of Koreas largest law firms, hosted a meeting on Jan. 24 with Ukrainian politicians and businesspeople at its head office in Seoul, for Samsung C&T, Hyundai E&C, Daewoo E&C, POSCO E&C and eight other Korean firms interested in reconstruction projects to receive more practical advice on their plans. The law firm said that the Ukrainian delegation introduced business opportunities in Lviv and the citys plan to build a smart city and an industrial complex. Since Russia began its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Yulchon has offered seminars for domestic companies to learn how to sign contracts in Ukraine and how to cope with potential legal disputes there. In February last year, the law firm organized a team dealing with legal affairs related to Ukraines reconstruction projects. Russia and Ukraine are similar in terms of infrastructure, system and laws, and Yulchon has focused on offering legal advice for reconstruction projects in Ukraine and other former Soviet countries, said Lee Hwa-joon, the team's leader who was admitted to the bar in Russia and has served as a legal adviser for both Russian and Ukrainian embassies in Korea. We will support Korean companies that want to enter the Ukrainian market, taking account of the characteristics of domestic firms that considered entering the Russian market, he said. Shin & Kim, another major law firm that also established a task force for Ukraines reconstruction last February, was the only law firm that participated in the governments briefing session last November for Korean companies interested in entering the Ukrainian market. During the session, lawyer Lee Seung-soo of the law firm explained Ukrainian laws related to reconstruction and ways to set up a local subsidiary there. He recommended Korean firms at that time to use Poland as a gateway to Ukraine, as the country could be under martial law for a while. Former diplomats play key roles Yoon & Yang tasked former Vice Foreign Minister Choi Jong-moon with leading a task force for Ukraines reconstruction, which was established recently on the occasion of the second anniversary of Russias invasion. He is known to have built personal networks in Ukraine, thanks to his 40-year diplomatic career. Kim Han-chil, the director of Yoon & Yangs Tashkent office, who was admitted to the bar in Russia, will support the new task force. Yoon & Yang lawyer Park Geun-bae, who previously worked for Hanwha Defense, was also sent to the task force. Ukraine asked for Koreas investments in the defense industry, as well as the infrastructure construction, when President Yoon Suk Yeol visited the country last July. Lee & Ko also appointed a diplomatic expert last year to lead a center that studies strategies for the Eurasian market. Lawyer Woo Yoon-keun of the law firm, a former lawmaker who served as the ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary to the Russian Federation between 2017 and 2019, leads the center that consists of 20 experts, including Dmitry Letunov, who was admitted to the bar in Russia and has provided legal advice for corporate clients doing business in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Georgia, Azerbaijan and Central Asian states. Lee & Ko will provide all kinds of information and services needed for companies and investors entering the Eurasian countries, Lee & Ko Managing Partner Kim Sang-gon said. Partnership with Ukrainian law firms Jipyong signed a memorandum of understanding last November with Aequo, a Ukrainian law firm, to enhance its legal services and networks in Ukraine and Eastern Europe. The partnership was seen as part of the Korean law firms efforts to gain a competitive edge over its rivals. We will provide services to address legal disputes and risks facing Korean companies entering Ukraine and East European countries, said Jeong Cheol, a lawyer who leads Jipyongs Eastern Europe team. After establishing the team last May, Jipyong hinted at its aggressive expansion in Ukraine, as well as in Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic and Slovakia, where Korean companies have rushed to build their manufacturing facilities for the European market. Other Korean law firms have also sought cooperation with Ukrainian law firms to provide better legal services to their corporate clients interested in the market. Kim & Chang, the largest law firm in Korea, has communicated with Ukrainian law firms and other companies there to support the operation of Korean companies in the East European country. It was once the home of the Dambusters, then the Red Arrows, and it served as an airfield for fighters in both world wars. Now, RAF Scampton a former airbase on the flat plains of Lincolnshire that locals boast is the worlds most famous is on the frontline of a battle of a very different kind. Since September last year, there have been 24-hour protests taking place at gates around the site against the creation of a mass asylum centre, which is yet to be opened but is expected to start receiving immigrants this spring. At one gate, on an unremarkable strip of the A15 north of Lincoln, a makeshift museum dedicated to the Dambusters has been pitched under green tarpaulin, containing a few maps, laminated photos, and memorabilia. It is manned by Carol Farmer, 72, a sombre retiree in a puffer jacket and grey beret studded with RAF and Remembrance pins. My uncle was based in Reykjavik in the RAF, a lot of my family are in the Army Im very, very passionate about these men, their courage, and their valour, and what they sacrificed, she says. This base just has so much history and heritage, including a Roman villa under the runway. They say were racists, and were not. The makeshift museum is a poor imitation, she says, of the aviation heritage centre residents were promised. After the Red Arrows moved to nearby RAF Waddington in October 2022, the council secured 300 million of private investment for the regeneration of the site in March. The plans promised a business park, jobs, new homes, investment in space and aviation technology and a heritage centre. Carol Farmer oversees the makeshift Dambusters museum - David Rose But later that month, the plans were thwarted. The Home Office announced it had earmarked Scampton for a large-scale development of asylum accommodation and planned to house 2,000 male asylum seekers on the site. Residents of the village which has a population of roughly 1,000 people immediately and furiously opposed it. West Lindsey District Council mounted a legal battle against the scheme that was unsuccessful; it has since announced it will appeal. Sarah Carter, 48, and her husband, who live on the airbase itself in former military family accommodation along with around 650 others, launched an online campaign. It was all about history, the heritage, the regeneration, the investment, she says. History and heritage is the party line. The 300 million regeneration [promised] for this area is the biggest Lincolnshire would ever see, she adds. But she worries about her safety, too you can see the portacabins lined up on the apron of the airfield from her bedroom window. Concerns have been raised about the lack of local infrastructure to cope with the sudden population influx and the proximity to a primary school that sits within the perimeter of the air base. They had promised a 2.4m fence [around the asylum camp] but theyve just flimsy Harris fencing up, says Carter. We dont think that 2,000 people are going to come here with ill intent. But it only takes half a percent of that to actually make a big impact by causing trouble. Established in 1916 as Home Defence Flight Station Brattleby, the site was first used by No 33 Squadron of the Royal Flying Corps in the First World War. It was then turned into a training aerodrome for young pilots in biplanes such as Sopwith Camels, Pups and Dolphins. Reopened as RAF Scampton in 1936, No 617 Squadron was established there in the Second World War. It was from Scampton that Wing Commander Guy Gibson led pilots into the most famous mission in the RAFs history, which became known as the Dambusters raid. It was previously thought of as a desirable place to live, but several local campaigners bemoan the impact the plans have already had on house prices in the area. Neil Arnold, founder of a Lincoln-based estate agency, says demand in Scampton has absolutely halted people are losing thousands of pounds, that is, if they [manage] to sell at all. Some of those protesting have stronger anti-migrant views. Camped out by Gate 8, flanked by Union Jack and England flags, a portaloo and a fire in an oil drum, a group of men allege that Scampton residents will become prisoners in their own homes if the plans were to go ahead. How could you tell your 12-year-old to go and play out in the park with 2,000 men walking around? asks one. The fight for Scampton has descended into chaos - Martin Pope/Getty Such large-scale sites are a proposition from a Government desperate for solutions. In January, the asylum backlog stood at 98,599 slightly larger, in fact, than the backlog Rishi Sunak promised to eradicate in 2022. As of June 2023, more than 50,000 asylum seekers were being housed in hotels, at a cost of 8 million per day. Other Government schemes to house those awaiting a decision on their asylum claim have fallen spectacularly flat. Plans to house up to 500 migrants on a barge, the Bibby Stockholm, were first delayed after traces of bacteria found in the water supply, then plunged into deeper controversy after a resident took his own life on board in December. The Home Office has turned to the use of large-scale sites including former Ministry of Defence (MOD) bases such as Scampton but critics say these harm both local residents and the asylum seekers themselves. A damning report from the human rights charity Helen Bamber Foundation in 2023 called a similar ex-RAF site in Wethersfield, Essex, a quasi-detention centre that left residents ghettoised and traumatised. In Scampton, as in Wethersfield, asylum seekers will be initially transferred from Manston detention centre in Kent. The maximum stay is nine months, except where the state is unable to find suitable onward dispersed accommodation. The camp at Wethersfield was also met with protests from local residents - Carl Court/Getty Images The key issues the report identified in Wethersfield were isolation, a detention-like setting, a lack of privacy and facilities all characteristics Wethersfield shares with Scampton, an exposed airfield on a main road near a small village. Opened in July 2023, [Wethersfield] has already caused profound and irreparable harm to many residents, harm that only intensifies the longer they are kept there, the report said. The medical charity Doctors Without Borders which usually operates in conflict zones such as Gaza and Iraq made the unprecedented decision to open a clinic there in an attempt to tackle the severe mental health crisis taking place inside. A Home Office spokesperson said: Delivering accommodation on surplus military sites provides more orderly, suitable accommodation for those arriving in small boats while reducing the use of hotels which cost more than 8 million a day. We understand the concerns of local communities and are liaising with councils and local services to manage the impact of using these sites on a temporary basis. Scampton will be a non-detained site for asylum seekers. It is incorrect to compare it to an immigration removal centre where individuals are detained. Back in Scampton, in mid-September 2023, following the announcement of the camp in March, the Home Office organised an online consultation with residents. Carter, with the strong belief that the Government would move migrants onto the site while the campaigners were distracted by a webinar, pitched a blue four-man tent on the airfields perimeter and camped out there for five weeks, sleeping in the tent and only travelling home to shower. Her story was soon picked up by national news outlets, and donations flooded in. She had unanimous local support, including from Sir Edward Leigh, the local MP for Gainsborough, who strongly condemned the Home Offices plans. Supporters dropped off enough sandwiches, tea, and biscuits to feed an army. Around the time she launched her campaign, Carter was put in touch with a group of campaigners in Linton-on-Ouse, North Yorkshire, who successfully opposed the creation of asylum accommodation on an RAF airbase in 2022. The Home Office spent 3 million on turning the site into accommodation before the plans were scrapped. Sarah Carter lives on the airbase in former military family accommodation along with around 650 others - David Rose They warned her of the far-right figures who would turn up and co-opt the campaign anti-migrant activists who protest at hotels and asylum accommodation across the country. It was just a waiting game, she said. Soon enough, they did. And thats when the real trouble began. An eccentric cast of far-Right figures affiliated with Patriotic Alternative (PA) which is, according to advocacy group Hope Not Hate, Britains largest fascist organisation and its splinter groups set up a rival camp at the main gate to the airfield. They had very different messaging. Banners that said Save our Scampton were joined by placards with slogans such as Refugees are raping here. In October, police found a suspected petrol bomb outside the gates and made several arrests for aggravated trespass and assault. There were rumours of heavy drinking, drug use and theft. Eventually, the battle between warring protest groups threatened to eclipse the cause they purport to be fighting for. They didnt have Scampton at heart we ended up being the minority, says Pauline Fisher, a local campaigner who has been involved since October. There was an awful lot of infighting and things like that. Money going missing from GoFundMe [campaigns]. Unfortunately, there have been very few of us who have had the guts to stand up to these people and say, thats not why were here. They made it so it wasnt about Scampton, it was about race. Its just me, my husband, and a couple of others who have stuck it out, compared to the constant stream of visitors last autumn. Local campaigner Pauline Fisher - David Rose Alienated by the behaviour of the Patriotic Alliance camp, local support waned, and the Home Office has pushed ahead with the plans. Documents suggest the first busload of asylum seekers could arrive from the beginning of April this year. Those remaining at the two main camps are making increasingly frenzied attempts to stop the plans. Im angry alright, says one. To the point where I dont give a monkeys now. They could bring a bulldozer it wont stop me. Only a handful of the original local campaign group remain. You start getting cut off from the people you need to reach locals, veterans, those with military history, says Carter. Her life has been dominated by the fight against the Home Office. A self-employed cake decorator by trade, she has not worked in a year. Her husband remortgaged the house. Her pre-existing heart condition has worsened and she was told she is at high risk of having a stroke. Blighted by this toxic atmosphere, the fight for Scampton has descended into chaos. We are paying a hard price for inviting these far-right groups into a local issue for popular support, one campaigner posted on Facebook, taking umbrage with the fact that some original protestors engaged with the far right groups. Its time we distance ourselves or else our cause will be lost. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. The city of Sacramento Thursday cleared six homeless tents from Cesar Chavez Plaza ahead of filming for a major movie starring Leonardo DiCaprio. City spokesman Tim Swanson said the city posts the attention to vacate notices on all tents at the downtown park whenever a permitted event is about to take place, not just the movie. There are not many other Cesar Chavez Plaza events in the winter, when low temperatures and rain make relocating harder for unhoused individuals. The city placed bright green stickers on six tents Wednesday during a rainstorm. The storm marked the tail of a major atmospheric river that wreaked havoc on the unhoused community and trapped a 73-year-old in her North Sacramento tent under a felled tree. Joseph Gibson Blackstock, a homeless man who has been sleeping at City Hall and spending the day at Cesar Chavez Plaza, said on Thursday that he doesnt know where he will go during the the planned movie filming dates, which start on Saturday. The citys notice to vacate flyers gave the homeless 24 hours to pack up and leave the park. All of the occupants were offered spots at the citys new Roseville Road shelter, and two have so far gone, Swanson said. Anji Baker said city crews did not offer him and his partner a shelter space when they came to stick the flyer on his cart. Baker and his partner had relocated to Cesar Chavez Plaza after they had been cleared earlier this week from a spot under the overhang at City Hall. On Thursday morning, he lay in his tent and shivered under a space blanket. Ani Baker, 61, a Sacramento homeless man sits inside his tent at Cesar Chavez Plaza in downtown Sacramento on Thursday. Baker, who shares the tent with his partner, said that he doesnt know where he will move after receiving a notification to leave to leave the area. Signs posted Wednesday indicate a movie will be filmed in the area of the park starting Saturday. Its terrible, said Baker, 61. We have nowhere to go. All our clothes and shoes are wet. We have no food. The city has roughly 1,300 shelter beds, but all are typically full, with a waiting list of over 1,200. They did not know where they were going to go, but they knew they were going to be cold doing it amid temperatures in the 40s. Weve gotta put everything in the cart, said Baker, who was born in Sacramento and became homeless four years ago. Its gonna be heavy. Crystal Sanchez, president of the Sacramento Homeless Union, criticized the city for uprooting the unhoused from the downtown park to make way for the film crew. A sign advises the public on Thursday that filming will take place at Cesar Chavez Plaza in Sacramento starting on Saturday. It is asinine in the midst of an atmospheric storm, against federal laws and protections unhoused people are being moved and placed in greater danger for Hollywood to roll footage in Sacramento, Sanchez said. The city permit should have not been issued without appropriately placing individuals in shelter as the city is well aware of the homeless crisis in the area. The notices say that filming will not take place at the plaza Sunday, which is the day a large homeless meal takes place every week. The notices cite a city code section regarding storage of personal property on or adjacent to so-called critical infrastructure. It also cites a section that states its against city code to erect tents in parks without permits, but that only applies to tents that are 200 square feet much larger than the two tents tagged. Filming for the unnamed film will take place at several locations downtown, including simulated gunfire, car chases, crashes and helicopter work, a city blog post stated. We are thrilled to have these creative projects come to life in Sacramento, Sacramento Film Commissioner Jennifer West said in the blog post. We appreciate your cooperation and support as we showcase the beauty and vitality of Sacramento through these cinematic endeavors. The movie, tentatively called BC Project, also stars Teyana Taylor, Sean Penn and Regina Hall. It is directed by Paul Thomas Anderson. Representatives for DiCaprio and Warner Bros. did not comment on the encampment evictions. The Bees Ariane Lange contributed to this report. A man rests at Cesar Chavez Plaza on Thursday. Signs posted Wednesday state that a movie will be filmed in the area for three days starting Saturday. HOPKINTON The Select Board voted 4-1 Thursday night to approve Police Chief Joseph Bennett's recommendation to terminate Sgt. Timothy Brennan. The vote was conducted in executive session at Town Hall, and followed a Loudermill hearing on Jan. 19 in which the Select Board heard attorneys representing Bennett and Brennan present their sides regarding Brennan's failure to report alleged sexual assaults committed against a minor by now-former Deputy Police Chief John "Jay" Porter. At the time, the board continued the hearing, giving the two sides side 30 days to settle on an appropriate disciplinary measure. According to a statement released by the town on Friday morning, those efforts were unsuccessful. Hopkinton police Sgt. Timothy Brennan heads into Town Hall surrounded by supporters ahead of an executive session called for by the Hopkinton Select Board, Feb. 8, 2024. 'Failed to comply': Probe finds Hopkinton police sergeant knew of alleged sexual assaults "After the Select Board paused the meeting on Jan. 19, the Town of Hopkinton and counsel for the labor union had attempted to resolve the matter in a mutually acceptable manner," the town's statement reads. "Those discussions were unsuccessful, resulting in Thursday's vote." Brennan's termination is effective Monday, Feb. 12. Board Chair Muriel Kramer cast the single vote in support of Brennan, according to HopNews, an independent news blog that first reported the decision. When reached by the Daily News, Kramer confirmed the vote without commenting further. Brennan's attorney, Daniel Fogarty of Boston-based Sandulli Grace, did not return a call seeking comment. Brennan tells supporters he wasn't willing to accept long-term suspension, demotion After Thursday's vote, Brennan addressed a crowd outside Hopkinton Town Hall, saying he was not willing to accept a long-term suspension and demotion. "Beyond standing up for the victim, we don't have anybody that's ever taken more than a five-day suspension, especially for a first-time policy violation," he said in a video posted to HopNews. "I felt that, and my wife is on board with me, that this was unacceptable." Brennan said he planned to fight the termination in arbitration. Supporters of police Sgt. Timothy Brennan stand outside Town Hall before an executive session in which the Select Board would vote 4-1 to accept Police Chief Joseph Bennett's recommendation that Brennan be terminated, Feb. 8, 2024. 'Placed her trust in the officer': Former Hopkinton police officer pleads not guilty to child rape Brennan, who had been on leave since last year, has said that the woman who accuses Porter of sexual assault first told him of the allegations in 2017, when she was an adult. Brennan said he didn't report the allegations because she had told him she wouldn't corroborate the story. He and his attorneys argued that by not reporting the assaults, Brennan made it possible for the accuser to come forward to the Middlesex County District Attorney's Office. During the Jan. 19 Loudermill hearing part of a due process requirement that must be provided to a public employee prior to removing the employee or imposing severe discipline Bennett recommended Brennan's termination due to breaking several department policies, including failing to report misconduct and failing to support a fearful victim. Brennan is also accused of breaking department rules by using the victim as a baby sitter while serving in his capacity as a school resource officer. Former Deputy Police Chief Porter pleads not guilty to child rape Brennan was placed on administrative leave last May. That same month, Porter pleaded not guilty to three counts of child rape after being accused of sexually assaulting the woman when she was 14 years old in 2004 and 2005, when he was the department's school resource officer. Porter retired from the Hopkinton Police Department on April 28, shortly before his indictment. He had been on leave since August 2022, although no reason was given until news of his indictment. Hopkinton Select Board Chair Muriel Kramer speaks with supporters of police Sgt. Timothy Brennan outside Town Hall before an executive session, Feb. 8, 2024. The Select Board would vote 4-1 to accept Police Chief Joseph Bennett's recommendation to terminate Brennan for not reporting an alleged child rape committed years earlier by a fellow officer. Kramer was the lone dissenting vote. The independent investigator retained by the town, New York City-based Kroll, found several instances in which Brennan violated the department's rules and regulations, according to a redacted copy of the report that was previously provided to the Daily News. Brennan stood accused of: Knowing, as of Aug. 21, 2022, of Porter's alleged rape of a minor and failing to report it to law enforcement; Knowing, as of 2017, of an alleged sexual assault on a minor and failing to report it to law enforcement; Knowing in August 2022 that the woman was pursing a criminal investigation and was concerned for her safety, but failing to report her safety concern to law enforcement; Not reporting the woman engaging in an inappropriate sexual relationship with Porter when she was underage; Using the victim as a baby sitter while serving as a school resource officer. Porter is awaiting trial. This article originally appeared on MetroWest Daily News: Hopkinton fires police Sgt. Brennan for not reporting sexual assaults Firefighters worked to extinguish a fire burning in a home in north Charlotte on Friday morning. Charlotte Fire Department said they saw fire and smoke when they arrived to the house on the 5400 block of Myrica Lane just before 10 a.m. Friday. READ MORE: Large, vacant building catches fire in north Charlotte Firefighters controlled the fire in 12 minutes, and no one was hurt in the fire. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. This is a developing story; check wsoctv.com for updates. (WATCH: One hurt in southeast Charlotte apartment fire) RICHMOND A House committee has reversed course on legislation calling for state assistance to its localities teetering on the brink of bankruptcy. Instead of tabling it as one of its subcommittees had suggested, the House Counties, Cities & Towns Committee voted 18-2 Friday morning to push through a bill that would allow the state to temporarily take over the financial affairs of a locality it declares fiscally distressed. It says that any locality which has been unable or unwilling to submit required annual reports of its books to the Virginia Auditor of Public Accounts over several years could be deemed in fiscal peril. Once that label is applied, the locality would be subject to immediate intervention, opening the door for the nonpartisan Virginia Commission on Local Government to appoint an outside emergency fiscal manager to take oversight of the financial affairs. The bills crosshairs squared on Hopewell, which had not submitted the audits since 2015 and last year rebuffed the Youngkin administrations attempts to step in. The legislation, from Del. Carrie Coyner, R-Chesterfield County, mirrors a Senate version passed out of committee earlier in the week. Its only difference is that Coyners bill specifies a localitys treasurer. That bill was originally recommended by a subcommittee to be tabled due to concerns about overreach, and the request to vote on its passage was questioned by Del. Laura Jane Cohen, D-Fairfax County. I know its been a long session, it feels like dog years at this point, Cohen said. But I wondered, this was the bill where we were discussing Hopewell, and can someone remind me what happened in [subcommittee]? I thought we either laid this on the table or continued to 2025. Mundon King acknowledged the bill was tabled in subcommittee. However, we received additional information and would like to reconsider it, she told Cohen. That additional information was to narrow the temporary takeover of constitutional officers money decisions to the treasurer. Coyner briefly addressed the changes in her committee testimony. Cohen and Del. Mike Jones, D-Richmond, cast the only dissenting votes to recommend its passage. Sen. Lashrecse Airds version of the fiscal distress bill is scheduled for second reading on the Senate floor Friday afternoon. The Petersburg Democrat said in a text to The Progress-Index Friday morning that she was going to ask that her bill be amended to also include the treasurer provision. A final vote on the Senate version is expected Monday. The legislation has created division among Hopewell City Council. Five of its seven members wrote to the legislature asking that it be killed because it was giving the state too much overreach to rummage through Hopewells pocketbook. Two members, including the citys mayor, supported the legislation. The council majoritys concern was also shared by the Virginia Municipal League, the Virginia First Cities Coalition and the Virginia Treasurers Association. Bill Atkinson (he/him/his) is an award-winning journalist who covers breaking news, government and politics. Reach him at batkinson@progress-index.com or on X (formerly known as Twitter) at @BAtkinson_PI. This article originally appeared on The Progress-Index: Fiscal-distress legislation sent to House floor by committee Donald Trump won Republican presidential nominating caucuses in Nevada and the U.S. Virgin Islands on Thursday, moving closer to becoming his party's White House standard-bearer in a likely general election rematch with U.S. President Joe Biden in November. Trump, the frontrunner in his party's nominating race, was the only major candidate competing in Nevada's caucuses and was set to win the state's 26 delegates to the party's nominating convention in July after being projected the winner on Thursday night by Edison Research. Earlier on Thursday, Trump easily won the U.S. Virgin Islands caucuses, adding four to his delegate haul. The former U.S. president won 182 votes, or 74% of the 246 votes cast there, beating his last remaining rival in the Republican race, Nikki Haley, who won 26% support with 64 votes. The Nevada caucuses, organized by the Trump-friendly Nevada Republican Party, came two days after a state-run primary election, which saw a humiliating defeat for Haley. Despite being the only major candidate on Tuesday's Republican primary ballot, Haley was still roundly defeated after tens of thousands of Trump supporters turned out to mark their ballots with "none of these candidates," an option which garnered 63% of the vote to Haley's 30%. Trump spent Thursday morning watching coverage of arguments in a case he appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court concerning Colorado's decision to remove him from this year's ballot for engaging in "insurrection" relating to the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. The justices appeared skeptical of Colorado's actions, expressing concern about the precedent it could set. Speaking to reporters before he left Florida for Nevada, Trump called the Colorado case "more election interference by the Democrats." After his win, Trump appeared before supporters in Las Vegas. "I want to thank the great people of Nevada," he said to cheers. He called Thursday's Supreme Court arguments "a beautiful sight to watch". Trump is close to winning the Republican nomination after back-to-back wins in Iowa and New Hampshire last month. Haley, a former U.N. ambassador, is refusing to quit the nominating race, a move which has infuriated Trump. Haley is vowing to stay in the race and make a potential last stand in her home state of South Carolina, which holds a primary election on Feb. 24. Haley has no clear path to the nomination and trails Trump badly in opinion polls in South Carolina, where she was governor for six years. The competing Republican ballots in Nevada this week were the result of a conflict between the state Republican Party - run by Trump allies - and a 2021 state law that mandates a primary must be held. Presidential nominating caucuses are run by state political parties, not the state, and the Nevada Republican Party decided to stick with a caucus on Thursday. It was viewed as more helpful to Trump because of his superior ground game in the Western state. Haley chose to compete in Tuesday's primary. Trump went for the caucus. The state party ruled that only candidates contesting Thursday's caucus could compete for delegates. Despite the results in Nevada having little impact on the Republican nominating contest, the state will be a hotly contested battleground because its population can swing to either party and play a significant role in November's presidential election. In 2020, Biden beat Trump in Nevada by 2.4 percentage points. Opinion polls show a likely rematch between Biden and Trump in the state will be close. About 30% of Nevada's population is self-described as Latino or Hispanic on the U.S. Census, and Republicans are making some inroads with these voters nationwide. Nevada also has many potential swing voters: There are 768,000 registered as "nonpartisan," more than those registered as either Democrat or Republican, according to the latest state figures. (Reuters) HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) A suspect in a Dec. 11 capital murder on Fairview Farm Way has been caught in Austin, Texas. The U.S. Marshals Services Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force and Lone Star Fugitive Task Force caught Travis Santell Blackburn, 42 on Wednesday, Feb. 7. SPD: Hillcrest motel owner killed Thursday morning identified, 34-year-old arrested According to the Huntsville Police Department (HPD), a shooting that took place around 2 A.M. on Dec. 11, at the Brookhaven Apartments on Fairview Farm Way. Jacobley Moore, 31, was taken to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Blackburn was booked into the Williamson County Jail in Georgetown, Texas. HPD obtained a warrant for Blackburns arrest two days after the shooting and asked the public for information on his whereabouts. Police say Blackburn will be extradited back to Huntsville at a later date and booked into the Madison County Jail on the capital murder charge. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. A man was found dead inside a burning vehicle in a ravine in 2023, Tennessee authorities said. Now, his wife and a 28-year-old man have been charged with first-degree murder. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation announced the indictment on Feb. 9, a year to the day after the agency began investigating the incident. The South Pittsburg Police Department responded to a call of a burning vehicle in Marion County on Feb. 9, 2023, officials said in a news release. Officers found a charred vehicle off a steep ravine, and inside found the body of 48-year-old Keith Whitmore. Whitmore lived in Lewisburg, according to his obituary, about 70 miles from where he was found dead. Authorities began investigating the case as a homicide. They identified his wife, 41-year-old Jeneal Whitmore, as a person of interest. They also believed 28-year-old Stephen Macari was responsible. McClatchy News reached out to officials on Feb. 9 about the relationship between the Whitmores and Macari but did not immediately receive a response. A Marion County grand jury indicted Jeneal Whitmore and Macari on Feb. 5, officials said. Macari was arrested in Lewisburg, and Jeneal Whitmore was arrested in Franklin, which is just south of Nashville. Keith Whitmore, who loved to fish and hunt, was an advanced emergency medical technician at a hospital, his family wrote in his obituary. Looked to as a mentor by many, he was always willing to help and share his knowledge, his family wrote. His main love in life was his children, they are his purest form of pride. South Pittsburg is about 20 miles west of downtown Chattanooga. Man found trapped under car was fatally run down by his wife, North Carolina cops say Sheriffs wife was killed in 1967 ambush, officials say. Now tip renews investigation Boyfriend tries hiring hitman to kill girlfriends mom, feds say. Want her gone now Husband kills 71-year-old wife in their room at retirement community, Georgia cops say President Vladimir Putin said in an interview released Thursday with controversial right-wing U.S. talk show host Tucker Carlson that the West should understand it is "impossible" to defeat Russia in Ukraine. In a two-hour interview with the former Fox News host coming just ahead of the two-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine Putin also said a deal "can be reached" on imprisoned Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich. "There are certain terms being discussed via special services channels," he said, while insisting that the reporter is a spy something the Journal and U.S. government vehemently deny. It was the first one-on-one interview of Putin by someone from the Western media since 2019. However Carlson, who is close to White House candidate and former President Donald Trump, asked few tough questions and largely listened while the Kremlin leader lectured him on his views of Russian history, portraying the country as a victim of Western betrayals. Putin defended his decision to invade Ukraine in February 2022. And he said the West now realizes that Russia will not be defeated, despite U.S. , European and NATO help to Ukraine. "Up until now, there has been the uproar and screaming about inflicting a strategic defeat to Russia on the battlefield. But now they are apparently coming to realize that it is difficult to achieve, if possible, at all. In my opinion, it is impossible by definition," he said. He also aimed a message at the U.S. Congress, where Trump-dominated Republicans are increasingly reluctant to keep backing Ukraine with weapons and other military aid. "I will tell you what we are saying on this matter and what we are conveying to the U.S. leadership. If you really want to stop fighting, you need to stop supplying weapons," he said. When asked if Moscow would consider invading other countries in the region NATO members Poland and Latvia or generally across the European continent, Putin said that was "out of the question." "We have no interest in Poland, Latvia or anywhere else. Why would we do that? We simply don't have any interest. It's just threat mongering," Putin said. A war with Poland, he said, would happen "only in one case: if Poland attacks Russia." Asked about a possible change in leadership after the U.S. election, where Biden is expected to face off against Trump in a rematch of their 2020 contest, Putin indicated he would see little change. "You just asked me if another leader comes and changes something? It is not about the leader. It is not about the personality of a particular person." Facing Putin in matching white chairs with a small table between them, Carlson rarely pushed back in his interview in an ornate room at the Kremlin recorded Tuesday and posted on Carlson's own website and did not challenge Putin over his relationship with Trump. While president and since being defeated by Biden, Trump has repeatedly praised Putin and failed to condemn the invasion of Ukraine saying that if he was reelected he would be able to solve the war in "24 hours," though not saying how. By contrast, Biden has branded Putin a "war criminal" and has made backing for Ukraine's elected, pro-Western government one of the key priorities of his presidency. (AFP) The Cuyahoga Hills Juvenile Correctional Facility is one of three state-operated youth prisons for juveniles found delinquent of felony acts. The prisons are struggling with violence, staff shortages and gang activity. The Heartless Felons and Head Busters hold power and sway inside Ohio's youth prisons, pressuring new arrivals to join the gangs or be targeted by them, experts said Thursday. Hindering the Ohio Department of Youth Services' ability to control gangs is an inexperienced staff that have yet to be trained on how to intervene, they said. Kids join the gangs out of fear but also for a sense of belonging and status, said Jack Vicencio, bureau chief for programs at the Ohio Department of Youth Services. "I've had youth tell me that exact thing: that this is intoxicating, that I am now someone, that people are looking up to me, I have clout, I have the juice," Vicencio said. Vicencio and Ryan Smith, head of behavioral health services for the youth prison system, spoke to the governor's task force on youth prisons during a virtual meeting Thursday about gangs. 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, Gov. Mike DeWine appointed a task force to study issues and make recommendations. Vicencio and Smith outlined the Ohio Department of Youth Services' efforts to get juveniles to leave gangs, including counseling, academics and family support. About half of the 500 incarcerated youth are affiliated with prison gangs, they said. "My frustration is that you've been doing this, and it hasn't worked," retired Montgomery County Juvenile Court judge Anthony Capizzi said. "I'm just trying to understand what's different now that wasn't the same three months ago. Because I'm not looking for the status quo that didn't work." Smith said that 40% of Ohio's youth prison guards have less than a year of experience, and they lack the skills and training to recognize gang behaviors. "The key here, to me, is getting a stable staff who will stay with you for a while," said Neil Tilow, former chief executive of Talbert House in Cincinnati and a member of the governor's task force. Without consistent employees "you're going to be chasing your tail forever." Ohio operates youth prisons in Circleville, Massillon and Highland Hills for about 470 youths ages 12 to 21 found responsible for felony acts. Children ages 10 and 11 who are adjudicated delinquent are held in private facilities. DeWine has endorsed the task force's initial recommendation that Ohio eventually close the prisons and replace them with smaller, closer-to-home facilities. 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. Get more political analysis by listening to the Ohio Politics Explained podcast. This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Inside Ohio's youth prisons, kids join Heartless Felons, Head Busters (KRON) On Wednesday, 53-year-old Eric Johnson was arrested by San Leandro police for allegedly stealing a vehicle just before midnight on Tuesday. By Thursday, he was dead, Alameda County Sheriffs officials said. Johnson was booked into the Santa Rita Jail in Dublin around 1:23 a.m. Wednesday. He was assigned to a minimum-security section in the custodial Reception Center where he was in a cell by himself, officials said. Around 5:15 a.m. Thursday, a deputy was conducting a routine observation check when the deputy found Johnson unresponsive in his cell. At 5:30 a.m., Johnson was pronounced dead on-site after medical personnel attempted life-saving measures, officials said. Johnsons cause of death is unknown and will be determined by the medical examiners office. Police said Johnsons next of kin has been notified. Johnsons last known address was in Oakland, according to officials. The investigation is ongoing. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. [Source] Back in 2020, Korean American artist Ted Park decided to visit rapper Parlay Pass in Atlanta after he felt his depression fully set over him in Jersey City during the initial wave of COVID-19. What was initially meant to be a two-week trip ended up becoming four months, resulting in the creation of multiple songs with Pass, including their hit 2020 track Dance Like Jay Park. The idea for the upbeat banger came to the musicians while they were in the basement studio of a mansion as Ted was vibing to some beats. I played that beat, and Ted was like, Ooh, this is like Drakes I could dance with Michael Jackson. And I was just like, Oh, I could dance like Jay Park, Pass tells NextShark, referencing both Drakes song Toosie Slide and Jay Park, the well-known Korean American rapper, dancer and entrepreneur. The track would eventually keep its name as Dance Like Jay Park and go on to pay homage to Jay, who has greatly influenced both Pass and Teds careers and music styles. Trending on NextShark: Viral video of daughter slapped by her father after return home from Tet sparks debate As you start to grind and you start to achieve some of your goals, you meet these people on the way, and Jay is one of the most solid people you'll meet. And not even just in the industry, just in general as a person, Ted says. Ted mentions Jays solid character, both as an artist and a CEO, and credits him for giving him a chance by signing him to his label. For both Ted and Pass, the song serves as a tribute, acknowledging Jays continuous support. Trending on NextShark: Angela Chao, CEO of US-based shipping company Foremost Group, dead at 50 When Jay first listened to the track, he immediately felt the desire to collaborate and create a remix of the song. As Korean Americans who grew up in the U.S. and share a background in hip-hop, he emphasizes the special connection they have due to the shared experiences of being underestimated and having to prove themselves in the industry. Jay commends the hard work and hustle that artists like Ted and Pass put into their craft. So whenever I can lend a helping hand to people that I respect, that I appreciate, that I think are dope, I will, Jay says. I appreciate that Pass and Ted made a song that kind of has my name in it. Im known for my dancing, but it's kind of like, they made a dope song, a catchy hook, made a dope video, and so I couldn't help but applaud it and also be honored as well. Two months later, the three artists released Dance Like Jay Park Remix in August 2020. Trending on NextShark: Young Chinese women are resorting to AI boyfriends for better communication However, it wasnt until January of this year that they decided to drop its official music video. Ted explains that the delay was due to COVID-related travel restrictions, safety concerns for loved ones and a shift in focus away from music for a while. The timing just wasnt right to just be trying to maneuver and do whatever, he says, noting that the filming of the video only took place when Jay was in the U.S. for the launch of his Won Soju liquor brand last year. It was all God's plan, you know, we were all just in L.A., Pass recalls. Everyone was all together, and we just made it happen. It was a real quick easy shoot that just was organic, natural and fun. Trending on NextShark: Hermes hands $4,300 bonus to all 22,000 staff after strong late 2023 Asia sales While the music video features the three artists partying and living a lavish lifestyle, they noted that the remix's lyrics actually holds deep and personal significance for them. The track depicts their journeys from a challenging past to a more successful present. It touches on various themes such as loyalty to friends ("I won't let my brother die in the streets"), determination to succeed ("My teacher said I'd work for minimum wage / I make more than that b*tch when I jump on a stage") and the contrast between past struggles and current achievements ("Been through hell looking back when I had no bands, now look I'm the man"). Pass notes that the lyrics are factual and reflective of his true lifestyle, mentioning that the song became even more poignant as he lost his little brother shortly after shooting the video. Trending on NextShark: Pakistani British teen with IQ higher than Einstein's calls for more support for gifted students Jay says that the song is reflective of many peoples difficult experiences during the past few years, particularly through the struggles of COVID-19. Jays verse reflects on his actions during the pandemic, where he distributed food to those in need in Seattle. I think even though it's like an uptempo song that you can bounce to and even though the song is called Dance Like Jay Park, I think all of our lyrics are a little bit deep. Like for me, rapping, We passing out food in the streets / Donations on donations / Can't see my brothers suffering / I don't want them to bleed, that's at a time where COVID was at an all-time high, he shares. As for Ted, he says that the song has become a way for him to express things he initially hesitated to include in his musical journey. Ted, born to immigrant parents and raised in a predominantly white community in Wisconsin, dropped out of high school and took a bus to New York to pursue his dreams. He wound up in Brooklyn, where he lived in poverty for a time but was fortunate enough to receive the support and care of some of his friends. Sometimes in music, I feel like we're underestimated and we're underdogs. And I guess that I just really felt like I had some things I wanted to get off my chest, Ted says. So Im really just representing what I've been through and where I came from to get to this point, regardless if people understand or believe it, because I feel like I have my own truth to share. The artists are gearing up for joint and individual projects in the coming months. Jay shares his ongoing promotion of Won Soju and his goal to finish his latest R&B album this year to hopefully release soon. Ted plans to continue pushing his artistic boundaries, especially with his joint project with Pass. He teases experimenting with genre-bending tracks on his solo project, emphasizing the importance of putting out music he finds dope while building connections in the industry. As for Pass, he is preparing for the release of his next single and video, an upcoming album and a short film project. He also reveals upcoming events, such as an On The Radar freestyle in New York and a performance at the Spam n Eggs event in Los Angeles. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ted Park (@tedparkboi) As the Korean American rappers move forward in their careers, they aim to inspire and spread positivity while maintaining their humility, collectively emphasizing their commitment to connecting with and being for the people. I always try to keep myself grounded and humble, so that I can continually just relate to people and be compassionate and empathetic and humane, Jay says. Even though people may think of me as a superstar, I never want to lose that human element of myself. I just want to spread positivity and love and influence your life in a good way. Pass urges his fans to count their blessings and appreciate what they have, noting that life's challenges are part of the journey. He acknowledges the difficulties people face, mentioning a recent loss of a friend, and stresses his gratitude for fans finding solace in his music. At the end of the day, when we die, there's no money, there's no fame or clout or accolades, Ted adds. It's really just what our actions were to influence and impact people. And at the end of the day, we're just like one another in some way, you know? Download the NextShark App: Want to keep up to date on Asian American News? Download the NextShark App today! Iran has extended visa-free access to 33 countries in a bid to boost the countrys tourism sector, strengthen diplomatic relations and tackle fear-mongering about the country. The move comes at a time when attacks by Iran-affiliated rebel groups and militias across the Middle East have seen relations with Western nations rapidly deteriorate, with US president Joe Biden saying he holds [Iran] responsible for supplying the weapons that killed three American soldiers in Jordan last month. No Western nations were present on the list of countries Iran is seeking to expand visa access for; rather it appears to be reaching out to countries across Latin America and Asia. The list includes countries such as Japan, Brazil, India, Mexico, Peru, Indonesia, Singapore, Cuba, Tunisia and Russia. Visa requirements were also dropped for visitors from Gulf states like Saudi Arabia, with which Tehran has had frosty relations for years until a recent rapprochement. These countries add to a list of visa-exempt nations that already included Turkey, Azerbaijan, Oman, China, Armenia, Lebanon and Syria. The Ministry of Tourisms proposal to cancel visas for some countries has been approved by the government, Ezzatollah Zarghami announced earlier in December. The Islamic Republic has shown its readiness to open doors to people worldwide and provide more facilities for them so that they can easily visit our country and benefit from its advantages. The decision helps foil negative advertisements, rumors and fear-mongering about Iran, he said. The visa-free travel for Indians, which came into action from 4 February, is for tourists arriving in the country by air and for not for more than 15 days. Underlining the purpose of the visa waiver extended to select nations, Zarghami says: Despite the concerted efforts of some countries to dissuade their citizens from visiting Iran and to create a negative perception, the personal experience of tourists visiting the historical and cultural sites of Iran has effectively dispelled these apprehensions. The attempts made by enemies to create Iranophobia among various nations cannot overshadow the eagerness of some foreign nationals to explore Irans attraction, he says in what experts see as a veiled attack on the US and other Western nations. The move is aimed at supporting the Iranian economy that has suffered greatly due to economic sanctions and isolation, especially after the US withdrawal from the landmark 2015 nuclear deal agreed between Iran and world powers, Dr Muddassir Quamar, associate professor at Delhis Jawaharlal Nehru University, tells The Independent. Donald Trum scrapped the Obama-era nuclear deal in May 2018, and reimposed severe sanctions against the Islamic Republic. Subsequent efforts to restore the deal collapsed with Tehran increasingly expanding its nuclear programme in violation of the limits of the deal. This has prompted other American allies, including the UK, Germany and France to maintain similar constraints on Irans missile programme through their own national sanctions. Iran has also been supplying Russia with large quantities of drones to use in its war against Ukraine, a conflict which has become increasingly defined by the use of such unmanned aerial and sea-borne vehicles. By allowing visa-free travel, Iran intends to tap its tourism potential, especially from emerging economies, says Quamar. Besides, this can be viewed as a move to attract industries and businesses from various countries. This is part of the Iranian regimes efforts to overcome the isolation it has faced, especially from the Western and European countries. According to Ali-Asghar Shalbafian, Zarghamis deputy, the tourist footfall is expected to reach six million in the current financial year that ends on 21 March. Foreign arrivals in December reached 4.4 million, about 48.5 per cent more compared to the corresponding period in 2022. However, the move is unlikely to increase Irans regional influence or provide a significant boost to Irans economy, says Kabir Taneja, a researcher with the Observer Reseach Foundation, an Indian think-tank. I personally wouldnt subscribe too much to the idea that its any kind of big boost to Iranian soft power because the idea for Iran, I presume, is to get as many dollars as possible through tourism. Now Iran doesnt really figure in anyones top tourist destinations. And considering what is happening in the Middle East right now, Id be slightly sceptical that theres going to be a huge outflow of tourists going into Iran, he tells The Independent, while referring to the Israel-Hamas war, in which nearly 26,500 Palestinians and 1,400 Israelis have been killed. With Tehrans militia network launching attacks in Syria and Iraq, there is a fear that the war could spill over to involve other regional players. The Iran-backed Houthi group in Yemen has been targeting commercial and military ships linked to Israel in the Red Sea in what it calls a pushback to Israels war on Gaza, with Houthis demanding Israel to stop the war and allow humanitarian aid to enter Palestinian enclave. Iranian nationalists have for long felt that they have been a victim of Western propaganda while linking it to Islamophobia and Orientalism in the West, Quamar says. But the policy choices towards Iran are based on realpolitik assessment and geopolitical considerations, he adds. Within the broader understanding of the Middle East politics, the Iranian regime is viewed as promoting armed proxy groups such as Hezbollah, Hamas and so on, that to an extent has put the domestic security in many countries and regional stability in the Middle East at risk, thus the view prevalent of Iran being a destabilising force, he explains. He believes, therefore, that the regimes effort to put the measure as a counter to Iranophobia is for domestic consumption. In reality, the tourism/trade industry in Iran have suffered greatly due to the geopolitical problems and the sanctions on Iran due to the nuclear issue. Without addressing these issues, I do not foresee any significant change in the international attitude towards Iran including among countries that have been included in visa-free list. IRS Criminal Investigation (CI) dedicates 70% of its time and resources to investigating tax crimes that include questionable refund schemes, return preparer fraud, abusive tax schemes, and more. This tax season, CI is cracking down on schemes that victimize U.S. taxpayers. In the fiscal year 2023 CI initiated 1,409 tax crime investigations and identified $5.5 billion in tax fraud. 655 defendants were sentenced for tax crimes during the last fiscal year. Tax crimes surge during filing season because criminals steal unknowing taxpayers information, hack into the servers of CPA firms and tax preparation services and victimize unsuspecting taxpayers with the false promise of huge tax refunds, said CI Chief Jim Lee. CI urges U.S. taxpayers to be vigilant this tax season: Avoid return preparers who claim they can obtain larger refunds than other preparers or whose fee is a percentage of your tax refund. Use a reputable tax professional who signs and enters a preparer tax identification number (PTIN) on your tax return and provides you with a copy of the return for your records. Never sign a blank tax form and ensure your refund goes to your account, not your tax preparers Protect your personal and financial information. Dont click links or open attachments in unsolicited emails or text messages about your tax return or those claiming to be from the IRS. These messages are fraudulent and could contain malware that could compromise your personal information. Report fraud to law enforcement. Submit Form 3949-A, Information Referral, if you suspect an individual or a business is committing fraud. The 2024 Tax Filing Season begins Jan. 29, and the deadline to file, pay any tax owed or request an extension to file for most of the nation is April 15. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. The legal team for the family of a man shot to death by a Cobb County police officer during a traffic stop in 2021 is going after the countys district attorney for failing to prosecute the cop behind the shooting. Attorneys for Devontae Browns family issued a statement accusing Cobb County District Attorney Flynn D. Broady Jr. of not presenting all the evidence the Georgia Bureau of Investigation gathered about Browns shooting death to a grand jury. They released body camera footage last November showing Officer Ian McDonnell shoot 28-year-old Brown after cops conducted a traffic stop on Brown for reckless driving. The attorneys for Devontae Browns family are accusing the Cobb County District Attorney of presenting incomplete evidence to a grand jury connected to the shooting death of 28-year-old Brown at the hands of Cobb County Officer Ian McConnell. (Photos: The Law Offices of Harry M. Daniels LLC) The footage begins with a view of police cars surrounding Browns car near South Loop and Powder Springs Road in Marietta on Aug. 18, 2021. In the video, Browns car looks significantly damaged and its airbags were deployed. McConnell is standing near Browns car with his gun pointed at the drivers side window, repeatedly yelling, Get your hands up! Get your f**king hands up! after Brown is seen reversing his car, then driving it forward while hes boxed in by police. After Brown reversed his vehicle and then put it into drive again, crashing into one of the police vehicles, McConnell fired twelve shots into the car. Once he fired his final round, McConnell immediately called for medical assistance for Brown. Several minutes pass before EMS teams extricate Brown from the vehicle. Authorities say Brown later died at the hospital. After the shooting, former Cobb County Police Chief Tim Cox said Brown was pulled over because officers observed the vehicle driving erratically and posing a threat to motoring and pedestrian traffic in the area. The GBI also stated that Brown attempted to get away and hit multiple police vehicles and refused to comply with traffic stop procedures before speeding away. Attorneys for Browns family said the Cobb County District Attorneys Office presented incomplete evidence to a grand jury in December 2022. GBI investigators didnt finish their investigation until September 2023. As a former prosecutor, I have no idea why anyone would take a case to the grand jury before the investigation was complete unless you wanted that case to fail, attorney Bernarda Villalona said. Its clear that the District Attorneys Office didnt care what evidence the GBI found. They werent going to use it anyway. The grand jury ultimately concluded that there were no grounds for charges against the officers involved. This isnt justice, attorney Crystal Carey remarked. Its a bait and switch of the worst kind and Devonte Browns family deserves better. How many times have we heard the police and prosecutors say that we have to be patient and wait for all the facts to come in before we make a decision? attorney Chanel Cherry-Lassiter said. Apparently, thats true for every case except this one. However, Cobb County District Attorney Flynn Broady disputed the claims in an interview with 11 Alive. He said September 2023 is when the evidence was returned to police. We actually got the GBI investigation in January of 2022. We didnt take it to the grand jury until December 2022. So we had the report, and we had the investigating agent testify at the grand jury hearing, Broady said. Still, the attorneys said there still parts missing from the grand jurys presentation. Browns family did announce plans to file a lawsuit but have not yet shared the names of the defendants or the allegations theyll specify in their case. This Isnt Justice: Lawyers Accuse Georgia District Attorney of Mishandling Case Against Cop Who Shot Black Motorist to Death 12 Times Candidates loyal to jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan edged ahead in Pakistan's election Friday, in front of the two dynastic parties believed favored by the military with just over half the count completed. Khan was barred from contesting Thursday's election and his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party was subject to a sweeping crackdown blocked from holding rallies and taken off the ballot, forcing candidates to run as independents. But the latest results in a slow counting process showed PTI loyalists had so far won around 49 seats in the 266-member national assembly, against 42 for the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and 34 for the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), with just over half of constituencies called. Most of the seats won by PTI-backed candidates were in its stronghold of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, while results were still coming in for the most populous province of Punjab, won by PTI in the last election but where the family of former premier Nawaz Sharif's PML-N have historically held sway. Unofficial tallies on local TV stations had independents in the lead for many of the remaining seats up for grabs. Candidates who run as independents can nominate affiliation to any party within 72 hours of victory -- a practice that frequently leads to horse-trading and deal-making in Pakistan politics and which could imperil PTI's success. "But even if PTI is unable to form a government, the elections show there are limits to political engineering," said Bilal Gilani, executive director of polling group Gallup Pakistan. "It shows that the military does not always get their way that is the silver lining," he told AFP. The election was marred by violence, mostly in the border regions neighboring Afghanistan, with 61 attacks nationwide, the interior ministry said Friday. At least 16 people were killed including 10 security force members and 54 wounded. More than 650,000 army, paramilitary and police personnel were deployed to provide security. Slow process On Friday, coming up to 24 hours after polls closed, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) announced half of all results of the National Assembly seat winners, attributing the delay to a day-long mobile network shutdown imposed by the government during voting on Thursday. "The delaying tactics speak loudly of the results being rigged and there is no other reason behind the delay," Nisar Ahmed, a 45-year-old shop owner, told AFP. Sadaf Farooqi, a 40-year schoolteacher, added there could be "no other reason except the results are being tampered with." Sharif's PML-N had been expected to win the most seats following Thursday's vote, with analysts saying its 74-year-old founder had the blessing of the military-led establishment. PLM-N spokeswoman Marriyum Aurangzeb said they were still hopeful of taking Punjab, crucial to forming a government. The PPP, which also has strong links to the military but whose popularity is largely limited to its Sindh heartland, appeared to be doing better than expected, with leader Bilawal Bhutto Zardari saying early results were "very encouraging." The PML-N and PPP joined forces with minor parties to boot Khan from office in April 2022 after his PTI had won a slender majority in the 2018 election. Khan then waged an unprecedented campaign of defiance against the military-led establishment that originally backed his rise to power. He was convicted last week of treason, graft and having an un-Islamic marriage in three separate trials among nearly 200 cases brought against him since being ousted. Rigging fears Allegations of poll rigging also overshadowed the election, as well as authorities' voting day shutdown of Pakistan's mobile phone network. Caretaker Interior Minister Gohar Ejaz defended the "difficult decision" to suspend mobile phone services on security grounds. "We were fully aware that suspension of mobile services would impact the transmission of election results across Pakistan and delay the process, however, the choice between this delay and safety of our citizens was quite straightforward," he said in a statement on Friday. Digital rights activist Usama Khilji said the mobile service blackout "strengthens the popular perception that the elections are rigged by the deep state." Raoof Hasan, PTI's secretary for information, said in a video statement that party agents in the field had reported PTI candidates leading in 125 constituencies. "An effort may be afoot to tamper with the results," he said of the delay in announcements from ECP headquarters. Mohammad Zubair, a 19-year-old street hawker in Lahore, said PTI supporters would not accept a PML-N victory. "Everyone knows how many seats Khan's independent candidates have won," he said. "They don't have a symbol, or a captain, or a flag, or banners but still we have won on the field." (AFP) Israel carried out air strikes in Rafah early Friday just hours after the U.S. warned Israel not to take its ground offensive to the southern Gaza city amid an already severe humanitarian crisis in the area. More than half of the Gaza Strips 2.3 million people are currently sheltering in Rafah after fleeing their homes in other areas left uninhabitable by the conflict. Biden administration officials on Thursday expressed opposition to the stated aims of Israel bring its war machine to the crowded city. Hamas Sets Out Three-Step Truce Plan Demanding an End to War in Gaza We have yet to see any evidence of serious planning for such an operation, State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel said, adding that to conduct such an operation [in Rafah] right now with no planning and little thought in an area where there is sheltering of a million people would be a disaster. He also pointed out that Rafah is a region which is a key conduit for access of humanitarian aid, and its border crossing is where foreign nationals are able to safely leave Gaza. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said separately that military operations in Gaza that do not give full consideration of protecting civilians at that scale is not something that we would support. The warnings came as President Joe Biden described Israels actions in Gaza as being over the tophis strongest criticism yet of Israels reaction to the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks. Israeli officials say the terror attacks killed 1,200 people. Gazas Hamas-run health ministry says almost 28,000 people in the enclave have been killed in the ensuing conflict, which is now in its fifth month. Around two-thirds of the dead in Gaza are women and children, Palestinian officials say. According to the Associated Press, the Israeli strikes in Rafah on Friday struck two residential buildings. An earlier report said at least 13 people were killed. The bombings may be a prelude to a much larger military operation, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu saying Wednesday night that the IDF had been instructed to take action in the city. Netanyahu said Rafah and two camps in central Gaza are the last remaining strongholds of Hamas. Defense sources nevertheless told The Jerusalem Post that an invasion was not imminent. Netanyahus comments came the day after he rejected a Hamas proposal for a truce in which their remaining captives would be freed and an end to the war negotiated. The prime minister called the groups demands delusional and vowed to never agree to any deal in which Hamas retained control of Gaza, promising instead to deliver a total victory. His uncompromising stance contrasted with that of President Biden, who said Thursday that he remains focused on pursuing a pause in the fighting. Im pushing very hard now to deal with this hostage ceasefire, he told a White House press conference. There are a lot of innocent people who are starving, a lot of innocent people who are in trouble and dying, and its gotta stop. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. The News The Israel Defense Forces has been told to prepare a plan to evacuate Rafah, a densely-populated town in the Gaza Strip. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Friday that he had ordered the evacuation ahead of an expected IDF ground invasion of Rafah, which houses about 1.5 million Palestinians who have been displaced from their homes by the Israel-Hamas war. In a statement, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbass office said that the evacuation was an attempt to drive Palestinians from their land, and that it would hold Israel and the U.S. responsible for any repercussions. It also warned the United Nations Security Council to pay close attention, because Israel taking this step threatens security and peace in the region and the world. It crosses all red lines. Know More Netanyahu has claimed that Rafah is the final Hamas stronghold in Gaza. His government has vowed to entirely eliminate the militant group, which carried out a deadly attack on Israel on Oct. 7. That military objective, analysts have said, is nearly impossible. The U.S. said any invasion of Rafah without planning to protect refugees would be a disaster, and human rights groups have warned that it could be fatal" for displaced civilians and humanitarian aid. UNICEF said that an escalation in Rafah would mark a devastating turn in the war, which has killed more than 27,000 Palestinians, according to Palestinian authorities, and had a disproportionate impact on women and children. More than 600,000 children live in Rafah, and military operations in densely populated residential areas can have indiscriminate effects, UNICEF executive director Catherine Russell said in a press release. Step Back Rafah lies on the border with Egypt, and is a crucial entry point for aid to reach the enclave. It is located next to the Rafah Crossing, a passage controlled by the Egyptian government through which aid trucks enter the strip. At the start of the war, Israel imposed a total blockade over the Gaza Strip, closing all entry and exit points out of the area and effectively enclosing Gazans. Typically, the Rafah Crossing has operated as a civilian entry point, and has not historically been equipped to handle incoming aid shipments. The deadly Hamas attacks of October 7 united a shocked, grieving Israel behind its leaders, burying at a stroke the divisions that had riven the country for years. Four months into the war and with hopes for a new deal to return Israeli hostages from Gaza in doubt, those divisions are re-emerging and Israelis are increasingly ready to speak their mind. Many, including the families of those hostages still held by Hamas, direct their anger toward Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who dismissed the terms of a ceasefire and hostage deal put forward by Hamas in forthright terms. Surrendering to Hamas delusional demands will only ask for another disaster for the State of Israel, another massacre, Netanyahu said, adding that continuing military pressure was a necessary condition for Israels safety. Survivors of the October 7 terror attack and the families of hostages were furious at the uncompromising repudiation of a deal that ultimately could have resulted in the return of all the remaining hostages in Gaza. Adina Moshe, 72, who was released during a ceasefire deal agreed in November, was among five former hostages who spoke out against Netanyahu on Wednesday. Hostages released from Hamas captivity in Gaza, from second left, Sahar Kalderon, Aviva Siegel, Adina Moshe, Nili Margalit and Sharon Aloni Cunio, attend a press conference in Tel Aviv on February 7, 2024. - Susana Vera/Reuters Mr. Netanyahu, Im turning to you. Its all in your hands. You are the one. And Im really afraid that if you continue the way you do, the destruction of Hamas, there wont be any hostages to release, Moshe said at a press conference for the Hostages and Missing Families Forum. Moshes words carried power she was kidnapped by Hamas from Kibbutz Nir Oz and held hostage in Gaza for seven weeks. Her husband David (Said) Moshe was murdered by Hamas. Another former hostage, Sahar Kalderon, 16, said she was grateful to the government for bringing her back, but asked: But what about my father who is abandoned anew every day, uncertain if he will live or die? Bring him back, do not make me lose faith in our country a second time, the teenager said. Protesters back in the streets As the war drags on, the emergency unity government that was established after the attacks is looking increasingly fragile, with disagreements mounting over Netanyahus strategy for getting hostages home, the future of Gaza and attempts to recruit more soldiers. The families of the hostages held in Gaza have emerged as a leading voice and they attract huge support among Israelis. For months, they mostly held off from criticizing the government and stayed away from politics. But this has now changed. Israel was consumed by months of weekly anti-government protests before the Hamas attack October 7 was meant to be the 44th consecutive Saturday of mass demonstrations against Netanyahus controversial plans to overhaul the judicial system. The proposed reform would have weakened the power of the courts and given the government more control over the appointment of judges. The opposition and the protesters criticized the plan as an attempted power grab by Netanyahu. Lital Shochat Chertow, from Israel Democracy HQ, the group that organizes the protests, said that most Israelis found themselves in survival mode after the October 7 attacks and that everyones focus immediately shifted from political protest to aid. There was a sense that it was not the time to oppose the government. Protesters demand a hostage deal amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, in a demonstration in Tel Aviv, Israel, on February 1, 2024. - Susana Vera/Reuters There were protests and gatherings, but they were apolitical and solemn in nature. Most were held to express solidarity with the hostages and their families, to call for more action to bring them back, and to honor the victims. Political protesters like Shochat Chertow were keeping themselves away from these events. And before we even dared to think of going out and protesting, we had bereaved families approaching us and saying we lost our son or daughter, our entire family, and we havent heard from the government. They didnt come to the funeral, they didnt come to the shiva, we didnt get a letter, nothing, Shochat Chertow said. Shiva is the traditional seven-day Jewish mourning period. Shochat Chertow spoke to CNN as thousands of people started to gather for an anti-government protest in central Tel Aviv on Saturday. It was the tenth consecutive week of protests since they restarted in early December. Crowds filled the square outside Israels national theater, waving flags and carrying posters that called Netanyahu Crime Minister, a play on his official title referencing the fact that the prime minister is currently on trial for charges of fraud, breach of trust and bribery. The protesters have urged the government to call new elections as soon as possible the first time such a demand was made since the terror attacks. These anti-government protests are still strictly separate from the hostage families events, which tend to take place just down the road at what has become known as the Hostage Plaza. But more people are coming to both. Doron Shabtai, who lives with his family in Sderot, a town close to the Gaza Strip that has for years been subjected to frequent rocket attacks by Hamas, told CNN he felt abandoned. Hamas militants stormed the town during the October 7 attacks, killing 18 police officers and some 20 civilians. At one point, they were on Shabtais roof, he said. The vast majority of the towns residents were evacuated following the attacks, but the government is now trying to convince them to return something Shabtai said he was not prepared to do since rockets are still targeting Sderot on a regular basis. On Monday, Shabtai spent five hours traveling to Jerusalem with a small group of people to protest outside the government building. Speaking to CNN at the protest, he said he believed the evacuation of people from harms way underscored Israels moral supremacy over Hamas. In Gaza, we see a lot of use of civilians for military purposes (as human shields); in Israel, the government actually paid me to find shelter, he said. Like hundreds of thousands of Israelis, Shabtai serves in the reserves and has spent the past three months fighting in Gaza. He is now being sent up north to Israels border with Lebanon. The idea of sending his wife and two young children back to Sderot is a non-starter. To put it gently, I really disagree with that. I feel like my government is trying to bring us back before they can make sure its secure because of the financial cost (of housing the families elsewhere), he said. Shochat Chertow said this is exactly why the protesters are back in the streets. This is the worst crisis and the families (of the victims of the attack) have been abandoned and they still have no support from the government, she said. They say its war time, we dont do politics and we dont protest during wartime but the government is doing politics, she said pointing to a recent controversy over the state budget, which saw Netanyahu allocating billions of shekels to provide monthly payments to ultra-orthodox Jews who study the Torah full-time, instead of investing money into aiding survivors of the October 7 attacks and soldiers returning from the war. People gather for an anti-government protest outside Israel's national theater in Tel Aviv on Saturday, February 3, 2024. - Ivana Kottasova/CNN The government has left the criticism largely unanswered. Netanyahu has held a couple of meetings with representatives of the hostage families, but most were reported to be hostile and ended up with the families being angry with him. The latest political row consuming the country is over a proposal by the government to extend the length of both the mandatory military service and time served in the reserves for Israeli citizens. At the same time, the government is insisting on keeping the exemption for Haredi ultra-orthodox men, who do not have to serve in the military although they can join, if they choose to, and more have been signing up since the October 7 attacks. The minority ultra-Orthodox community is a key electorate for Netanyahu, which makes the controversial exception a vital issue for him. Former Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid, from the centrist Yesh Atid party, said on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, that the proposed law would be a betrayal of IDF soldiers. Its not together we win, and its not we fight together. Its young men and women who will serve the country and risk their lives, unlike those who got themselves exempt, he said. But even as some call for a new election which would be Israels sixth in just four years many are not prepared to ditch Netanyahu. The prime minister, known as Bibi in Israel, can rely on a shrinking, but sizable number of voters who would vote for him no matter what. And even some of those who didnt vote for him before see him as the only possibility. Evyatar Cohen, a law student, said that while he is no big fan of Netanyahu, and has never voted for him, he doesnt see another option. He is our best alternative right now. As a rational person, I have to choose between alternatives. As a right-wing person, I of course, want someone who would be more aggressive, who will have no tolerance against terrorists but he is the best real alternative that we have right now. CNNs Amy Cassidy and Lauren Kent in London and Lauren Izso in Tel Aviv contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Israel struck the southern Gaza city of Rafah, following a warning from Biden administration officials and aid agencies to Israel against expanding its ground offensive to there, according to The Associated Press. Airstrikes, occurring overnight and into Friday, struck two residential buildings in the southern city. In central Gaza, two other places were bombed, including a kindergarten that had become a shelter for those who were displaced. AP journalists who saw bodies coming into hospitals reported that 22 people were killed. On Thursday, President Biden gave some of his most forceful criticisms of Israels actions in Gaza in remarks from the White House. Im of the view, as you know, that the conduct of the response in Gaza Strip has been over the top, the president said. Biden said he had pushed the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, whom he accidentally called the president of Mexico, to open gates for humanitarian aid to make its way into Gaza. Ive been pushing really hard, really hard to get humanitarian assistance into Gaza, Biden said. There are a lot of innocent people who are starving, lot of innocent people who are in trouble and dying. And its got to stop. The Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza said that the death toll of Palestinians is now close to 28,000, according to the AP. This toll includes both civilians and combatants. Israel stating its intention for the expansion of the ground offensive into Rafah resulted in American backlash. We have yet to see any evidence of serious planning for such an operation, State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel said Thursday. Patel also said that going ahead with the offensive with no planning and little thought in an area where there is sheltering of a million people would be a disaster. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres speaks during a press conference about his priorities for 2024. Bianca Otero/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa Israel welcomed a planned investigation into the allegations that members of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) were involved in the October 7 killings on Friday. "The establishment of an independent review group to assess UNRWAs neutrality following the publication of information indicating the participation of agency employees in terror activities is a positive step, although it is long overdue," an Israeli Foreign Ministry spokesman said on Friday. "However, the review group should include research institutes with relevant professional experience that includes counter-terrorism, security and vetting procedures," he said in a post on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. "Israel expects that the group will include major donors to the agency as well as Israeli experts," he added. The UN said Former French foreign minister Catherine Colonna is to head an independent group of experts to examine the serious allegations against UNRWA, the UN said on Monday. Israel has accused several UNRWA employees of being involved in the October 7 terror attacks led by the Palestinian militant group Hamas. Several major Western donors to UNRWA, including the United States and Germany, temporarily suspended payments to the Gaza relief agency over the allegations. Colonna's group is due to begin its work on February 14, with an interim report expected sometime before the end of March. The expert panel is expected to consider whether UNRWA has violated measures aimed at maintaining the group's neutrality in the Gaza Strip, which Hamas has been ruling since 2007. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres promised comprehensive clarification. Several employees have already been terminated. Palestinians look at the destruction after an Israeli airstrike in Rafah, Gaza Strip, Friday, Feb. 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Fatima Shbair) JERUSALEM (AP) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday said he has ordered the military to prepare a plan to evacuate civilians from Rafah ahead of an expected Israeli invasion of the densely populated southern Gaza city. The announcement came after heavy international criticism, including from the U.S., of Israeli intentions to move ground forces into the city that borders Egypt. Rafah had a prewar population of roughly 280,000, and according to the United Nations is now home to some 1.4 million additional people living with relatives, in shelters or in sprawling tent camps after fleeing fighting elsewhere in Gaza. Israel says that Rafah is the last remaining Hamas stronghold in Gaza after more than four months of war. It is impossible to achieve the goal of the war of eliminating Hamas by leaving four Hamas battalions in Rafah," Netanyahus office said. "On the contrary, it is clear that intense activity in Rafah requires that civilians evacuate the areas of combat. It said he had ordered the military and security officials to come up with a combined plan that includes both a mass evacuation of civilians and the destruction of Hamas forces in the town. Israel declared war after several thousand Hamas militants burst across the border into southern Israel on Oct. 7, killing 1,200 people and taking 250 others hostage. An Israeli air and ground offensive has killed roughly 28,000 Palestinians, most of them women and minors, according to local health officials. Roughly 80% of Gazas 2.3 million people have been displaced, and the territory has plunged into a humanitarian crisis with shortages of food and medical services. Netanyahu has largely rebuffed international criticism of the civilian death toll, saying that Hamas is responsible for endangering civilians by operating and hiding in residential areas. But that criticism has grown in recent days as Netanyahu and other leaders vow to move into Rafah. U.S. President Joe Biden said Thursday that Israels conduct in the war is over the top, the harshest U.S. criticism yet of its close ally. The State Department said an invasion of Rafah in the current circumstances would be a disaster. The operation will be a challenge on many levels. It remains unclear where civilians can go. The Israeli offensive has caused widespread destruction, especially in northern Gaza, and hundreds of thousands of people do not have homes to return to. In addition, Egypt has warned that any movement of Palestinians across the border into Egypt would threaten the four-decade-old peace treaty between Israel and Egypt. The border crossing between Gaza and Egypt, which is mostly closed, serves as the main entry point for humanitarian aid. Israel already has begun to strike Rafah from the air. Airstrikes overnight and into Friday hit two residential buildings in Rafah, while two other sites were bombed in central Gaza, including one that damaged a kindergarten-turned-shelter for displaced Palestinians. Twenty-two people were killed, according to AP journalists who saw the bodies arriving at hospitals. GROWING FRICTION Comments from top U.S. officials about Rafah have signaled growing friction with Netanyahu after a visit to the region by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Blinken, who has been working with Egypt and Qatar on trying to mediate a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, left the region Thursday without an agreement. But he said he believed it was still possible to strike a deal that would include an extended pause in fighting in exchange for the release of many of the more than 100 hostages held by Hamas. Netanyahu appeared to snub Blinken, saying he will settle for nothing short of total victory. The Israeli leader has said the war seeks to destroy Hamas military and governing capabilities and return all hostages home. With Blinken still in town, Netanyahu said achieving those goals would require an operation in Rafah. Vedant Patel, a State Department spokesman, said Thursday that going ahead with such an offensive with no planning and little thought in an area where there is sheltering of a million people would be a disaster. John Kirby, the White Houses national security spokesman, said an Israel ground offensive in Rafah is not something we would support. Aid agency officials have also sounded warnings over the prospect of a Rafah offensive. We need Gazas last remaining hospitals, shelters, markets and water systems to stay functional, said Catherine Russell, head of the U.N. childrens agency UNICEF. Without them, hunger and disease will skyrocket, taking more child lives. With the war now in its fifth month, Israeli ground forces are still focusing on the city of Khan Younis, just north of Rafah, but Netanyahu has repeatedly said Rafah will be next, creating panic among hundreds of thousands of displaced people. AIRSTRIKES OVERNIGHT Shortly after midnight Friday, a residential building was struck near Rafahs Kuwaiti Hospital, killing five people from the al-Sayed family, including three children and a woman. A second Rafah strike killed three more people. Another overnight strike, in the central town of Deir al-Balah, claimed nine lives. Also in central Gaza, a strike hit near a kindergarten-turned-shelter, damaging the building. It killed five and wounded several more people. Witnesses said shelter residents were asleep at the time. A woman, carrying a small girl in her arms, shouted as she arrived at the local Al Aqsa Martyrs Hospital: What can we do? This is the work of the coward Zionist enemy that chooses innocent civilians. This girl is firing rockets at the Jews? May God help us. Some of the wounded children were treated while lying on the floor. WORKING FOR A CEASE-FIRE Israels 4-month-old air and ground offensive among the most destructive in recent history has killed 27,947 Palestinians and wounded more than 67,000, local health officials said Friday. The war has driven most people from their homes and pushed a quarter of the population toward starvation, according to the U.N. Biden has said said he continues to work tirelessly to press Israel and Hamas to agree on an extended pause in fighting. Netanyahu has rejected Hamas demands for a hostage deal, which includes an end to the war and the release of hundreds of veteran Palestinian prisoners serving long sentences in Israel for deadly attacks carried out as part of the long-running conflict. Netanyahu dismissed Hamas demands as delusional, even as Blinken said he believes continued negotiations, through mediators Egypt and Qatar, are possible. Israels war goals appear increasingly elusive, as Hamas reemerges in parts of northern Gaza, which was the first target of the offensive and has seen widespread destruction. Israel has only rescued one hostage, while Hamas says several have been killed in airstrikes or failed rescue missions. ___ Jobain reported from Rafah, Gaza Strip, and Mroue reported from Beirut. Israelis protest and call for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas, outside of the military base in Tel-aviv. Ilia Yefimovich/dpa A large number of people demonstrated in Israel on Thursday evening, both in favour of and against a possible hostage agreement with the Palestinian Islamist organization Hamas. In Jerusalem, thousands protested against negotiations with Israel's enemies and in favour of a continuation of the Gaza war, Israeli media reported on Thursday evening. At the same time, hundreds of people protested in Tel Aviv in favour of a deal to secure the release of the hostages still being held in the Gaza Strip. According to the media, the demonstrators also blocked roads in Israel's coastal metropolis. In recent weeks, thousands have repeatedly demonstrated in Israel to put pressure on the government to do more to secure the release of people abducted from Israel by Hamas. Demonstrators also accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of prioritizing his political survival over the fate of the hostages. Meanwhile, Netanyahu's far-right coalition members are threatening to break up the governing coalition if the Prime Minister makes concessions to Hamas as part of a hostage deal. The Israeli war cabinet met on Thursday evening to discuss a possible agreement with Hamas. As part of an international mediation proposal for the release of further hostages, Hamas is demanding that Israel release more than 1,500 Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails - including 500 prisoners who have been sentenced to life or very long prison sentences. Hamas also continues to insist on a ceasefire. Israel rejects this. Of around 136 hostages still held by Hamas, the Israeli military says that around one fifth are believed to have died. Israelis protest and call for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas, outside of the military base in Tel-aviv. Ilia Yefimovich/dpa Israelis protest and call for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas, outside of the military base in Tel-aviv. Ilia Yefimovich/dpa Israeli forces conducted an overnight raid in the Gaza Strip and detained two American brothers, whose whereabouts are now unknown, their cousin told HuffPost. Borak and Hashem Alagha, ages 18 and 20, were sleeping when Israeli forces raided their home in western Khan Younis, south of Gaza City, at around 5 a.m. Thursday, said cousin Yasmeen Elagha. Soldiers allegedly assaulted the mens mother and 14-year-old brother before blindfolding and tying up the women and children there. Soldiers then trashed their home and slashed vehicle tires before leaving with the Alagha brothers, their Canadian father, and an uncle who is mentally disabled, Elagha said. Soldiers also detained other members of her extended family in nearby homes, she added. Elagha, who lives in Chicago, got a phone call from her aunt the mother of the two detained men late Thursday night. Tell the Americans to save my sons, the mens mother said through tears, according to Elagha. It is the worst news, Elagha told HuffPost. It is the thing that I have been dreading for months at this point. I have been waiting for the U.S. to act so that it doesnt happen. The Alagha brothers are the second and third U.S. citizens said to be detained by Israeli forces this week. A Palestinian American woman, Samaher Esmail, was reportedly pulled from her bed and taken by Israeli soldiers who raided her home in the occupied West Bank. Esmails family has not been able to locate her since the incident. And earlier this month in the West Bank, an American teen named Tawfic Hafeth Abdeljabbar was shot and killed. The U.S. State Department is aware of Esmails detention and the reporting on the Alagha brothers, department spokesperson Vedant Patel said at a press briefing Thursday, without commenting further. The Department of State has no higher priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas, a department spokesperson told HuffPost, declining to comment further on Esmail or the Alagha brothers. Yasmeen Elagha is pictured with her family in Gaza last year, including her cousins Hashem, second from left, and Borak, far right. Yasmeen Elagha is pictured with her family in Gaza last year, including her cousins Hashem, second from left, and Borak, far right. On Thursday, U.S. President Joe Biden called Israels military response in Gaza launched after an Oct. 7 attack by the Hamas militant group reportedly killed around 1,200 people in Israel over the top. Biden added that he was pushing for a sustained pause in fighting there. His comments came as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken departed Tel Aviv on Thursday, marking the end of a Middle East tour intended to de-escalate tensions. But Elagha, a law student at Northwestern University, said that the White Houses attempts to evacuate and advocate for Palestinian Americans in the Gaza Strip have paled in comparison to what the administration has done to free hostages who were captured from Israel by Hamas. I feel betrayed. I feel helpless, she said. I feel like I am pleading and begging for the lives of my family, and it doesnt seem like anyone cares. Since Israels bombardment of Gaza began, Elagha has called her representatives in Congress, as well as embassies in Tel Aviv, Cairo and Jerusalem, to push for the evacuation of her American cousins, to no avail. The only way to evacuate Gaza is through the Rafah crossing to Egypt, but most members of the Elagha family have not been able to get their names on the list of people approved to cross. Elaghas grandparents were able to evacuate Gaza recently, traveling to the U.S. just three days before the raid on their familys home. According to the U.S., it has assisted nearly 1,600 individuals including U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents and other eligible family members with entry into Egypt from Gaza since Oct. 7. But many in the U.S. particularly Palestinian, Arab and Muslim Americans have criticized Biden for not doing enough to evacuate their families and protect people in Gaza. Many members of those communities have vowed to not vote for him as he seeks reelection, and some leaders have declined to meet with administration officials attempting reconciliation with their communities. Elagha and other Palestinian Americans filed a lawsuit against the federal government in December, alleging that the government has failed to protect its citizens, as HuffPost previously reported. The Alagha brothers, who were born in Chicago, are among fewer than 50 U.S. citizens known to still be trying to flee Gaza amid the war. Since Oct. 7, Israels military campaign has killed more than 27,000 Palestinians, according to Gazas Health Ministry. Elagha said that no one from the White House has reached out to her. I wish that we could get any kind of indication that we matter, that our lives are not disposable, and that when were in danger, the U.S. government will be there to help, she said. I am getting messages every day from my family, asking me, When are the Americans coming? Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the country's army to prepare for an offensive on the southern city of Rafah in the Gaza Strip. "It is impossible to achieve the goal of the war of eliminating Hamas by leaving four Hamas battalions in Rafah," he said. "It is clear that intense activity in Rafah requires that civilians evacuate the areas of combat - a combined plan for evacuating the population and destroying the battalions," he said in a statement issued by the prime minister's office on Friday. A military offensive in Rafah, located in the southernmost part of Gaza on the border with Egypt, could lead to a humanitarian catastrophe, the UN has warned, saying this would have ripple effects throughout the region. The city, was home to some 300,000 people before the war, but has swelled to some 1.3 million Palestinians who are sheltering there now, having fled fighting throughout the rest of the densely-populated strip, in some cases following IDF orders. "Half of Gazas population is now crammed into Rafah with nowhere to go," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a post on X. The US government and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock have also clearly opposed military action in Rafah in recent days. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gives a press statement at the Kirya in Tel Aviv. Kobi Gideon/GPO/dpa Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to prepare for an offensive on the southern city of Rafah in the Gaza Strip in what Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas warned would amount to a "prelude to expulsion." Netanyahu asserted that it is "impossible" to achieve the goal of "eliminating Hamas" by leaving four Hamas battalions in Rafah. "It is clear that intense activity in Rafah requires that civilians evacuate the areas of combat - a combined plan for evacuating the population and destroying the battalions," he said in a statement issued by the prime minister's office on Friday. Speaking at his official residence in Ramallah, Abbas, the head of the Palestinian Authority which administers part of the West Bank, said that a Rafah offensive would represent a "dangerous prelude" to a policy of expulsion that Palestinians fear. Abbas accused Israel and its ally, the United States, of "destructive policies." He called on the UN Security Council to take action. "These steps (considered by Israel) endanger security and peace in the region, they cross all red lines," he added. A military offensive in Rafah, which lies in the very south of the Gaza Strip and borders Egypt, is considered highly problematic. Such an offensive could lead to a humanitarian catastrophe, the UN has warned, saying this would have ripple effects throughout the region. The city, was home to some 300,000 people before the war, but has swelled to some 1.3 million Palestinians who are sheltering there now, having fled fighting throughout the rest of the densely-populated strip, in some cases following IDF orders. "Half of Gazas population is now crammed into Rafah with nowhere to go," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a post on X. Guterres' spokesman Stephane Dujarric added after the Israeli government's announcements on Friday that the UN did not want to see mass expulsions. The US government and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock have also clearly opposed military action in Rafah in recent days. Meanwhile a total of 67,460 people have been injured, after 142 suffered injuries during the past 24 hours, the Hamas-controlled authority said on Friday. While the figures could not be independently verified, they are viewed as credible. More than 1,200 Israelis were killed in the October 7 attacks and Hamas is still holding some 136 people hostage. Fighting has mainly been focused in the south of the strip in recent weeks, where the Israeli military suspects Hamas leaders of hiding in an underground network of tunnels. They also say Hamas may be holding hostages there. There were also fresh clashes Friday between Iran-backed Hezbollah militants and Israeli armed forces. According to the Israeli military, Hezbollah fired several rockets into northern Israel. No-one was injured. In response to the attack, Israeli fighter jets bombed a military facility in Maroun al-Ras, southern Lebanon, where Hezbollah militiamen were said to have been active, the Israeli military said. Wynonna is not your typical firefighter. While firefighters use water to put out fires, she uses her appetite and her four-chamber stomach to get the job done. Wynonna is one of about 40 goats being tasked with eating dead weeds and grass for the Weatherford affiliate of Goats on the Go, a company made up of local, independently-owned goat grazing businesses that provide weed and brush control. According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, there were around 20 brush fires near Fort Worth and surrounding counties resulting in over 2,700 acres burned in 2023. A goat eats portion of dead grass and weeds on a patch of land in Jacksboro in September. With February being the start of fire season in Texas, goat grazing can play a role in wildfire fuel management in rural areas. John Walker, a professor emeritus and extension range scientist with the Department of Rangeland, Wildlife and Fisheries Management at Texas A&M University, said fire season in Texas begins in February, earlier than in other states, due to the states unique climate and weather conditions. In Texas, Walker said, peak rainy season is in the spring and fall, which allows the vegetation to grow in the summertime. When temperatures drop in the winter, the soil dries and northern fronts bring in high winds. Its dry, said Walker. You then have the windy conditions that will push that fire and make it very hard to control. A herd of goats begins to clear a patch of land in Jacksboro in September. Their job is to eat Every morning starting around 7 a.m. and throughout most of the day, the goats chomp at yellowed grasses, prickly bushes and dead vegetation all which serve as fuel for brush fires. Their job is to eat, said Greg Kalldin, the owner and operator of Goats on the Go Weatherford. Its pretty amazing what they will eat. They will eat just about anything that is out there on the ground for them. Walker said goats are used for brush clearance because they prefer eating weeds and dry foliage other animals dont particularly enjoy. Greg Kalldin, the owner of the Goats on the Go Weatherford affiliate, watches over the goats as they work on clearing a new patch of land in Jacksboro in September. Sheep and cattle tend to prefer more grass than goats do, said Walker. They are going to eat the woody plants more so than other types of livestock. Not only do they love to consume weeds, but their digestive system prevents the seeds from germinating after it has passed through their body. They only have a 0.002% chance of germinating when they hit the ground, said Kalldin. This allows the sun to hit the soil and allow the native plants and native grasses to come back and thrive after being choked out so long from weeds. Goats can eat weeds and clear underbrush to prevent wildfires from spreading over hundreds and thousands of acres. Environmentally sustainable fire control According to Kalldin, goats eat the weeds and clear the underbrush to prevent wildfires from spreading over hundreds and thousands of acres. Along with eating the vegetation, Kalldin said goats could also get to locations where humans and machines cant. They can get in areas that havent been touched in 10 to 15 years or maybe the brush is six, seven or eight feet tall where they can knock that down to a more manageable size or just completely eliminate it, said Kalldin. Greg Kalldin, the supervisor for the Goats on the Go Weatherford affiliate, begins to set up an electric fence around a new patch of land in Jacksboro that will help protect the goats from predators such as coyotes and rattlesnakes. Goats are also an environmentally sustainable option compared to machines, according to Walker. When goats graze the vegetation, they turn it into fertilizer that goes back into the soil helping retain the organic carbon in the soil. With [machines] or hand crews, youre expending fossil fuels to get rid of the natural fuels that are on the ground, said Walker. As for the future of goat grazing, Walker is optimistic they could have a vital role in protecting rural neighborhoods from wildfires. The herd of goats begin to rush in and feast on a new patch of land in Jacksboro in September. Within a week, the goats clear around an acre of grass and weeds. A goat eats dead grass and weeds on a patch of land in Jacksboro in September. On Dec. 27, 2005, a wildfire decimated Cross Plains, burning over 6,800 acres and destroying 110 homes in the Callahan County city 45 miles southeast of Abilene. In order to prevent another tragedy like Cross Plains, Walker proposed using goats to create a buffer 100 yards wide around rural communities. The fire would burn up to that area that was grazed and it doesnt spread across it because there is insufficient fuels to carry the fire, said Walker. Greg Kalldin, the supervisor for the Goats on the Go Weatherford affiliate, pets one of the goats and Spanky the mule before they begin work on a new patch of land in Jacksboro. Spanky the mule watches over the herd of goats as they begin to work on a patch of land in Jacksboro in September. The herd of goats eagerly wait for Greg Kalldin, the supervisor for the Goats on the Go Weatherford affiliate, to set up an electric fence to begin eating the brush at a new patch of land in Jacksboro on Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023. Greg Kalldin, the owner of the Goats on the Go Weatherford affiliate, watches over the goats as they work on clearing a new patch of land in Jacksboro on Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023. Milwaukee Public high school students talk with Milwaukee Tools industrial channel territory manager Ian Blankenmeyer (far right) and job site solutions specialist, Kevin Murphy as part of the Milwaukee Public Schools trades fair at the Milwaukee Tool offices in downtown Milwaukee on Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2023. About two in three jobs paying $50,000 a year or more in Wisconsin require some sort of college degree, according to new nonpartisan research. And that demand for a degree is expected to increase. The nonprofit Wisconsin Policy Forum analyzed the state's projected job openings from 2020 to 2030, how much those jobs pay and what type of degree is usually needed to get one. Released this month, the research puts Wisconsin-specific numbers to a national issue that lawmakers, educators and students alike are grappling with: how to make higher education accessible and affordable, especially given the time and money it takes to earn a degree. An analysis by the University of Wisconsin-Madison found Wisconsin's student loan debt is low compared to most other states. Federal student loans still directly affect more than a half-million Wisconsin residents an estimated 715,800 people for an average of $32,230 in loans each; that's nearly one in four people in the labor force, according to 2020 data. Wisconsin is incentivizing K-12 schools to create programs to give high schoolers experience firsthand with jobs and college before they graduate. In part, that's in response to the cost of college and workforce shortages. More high schoolers statewide are participating in dual enrollment programs, for example, which allow them to earn free or low-cost college credits. State lawmakers have recently increased funding pools for youth apprenticeship and high school programs leading to credentials in high-demand jobs. The Wisconsin Policy Forum's recently released report defines a "high-paying job" as paying at least $50,000 annually. That's equivalent to $24.04 an hour, according to a wage calculator by financial company ADP. The definition of a "living wage" changes based on whom you ask, but a commonly cited calculator by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology defines it as $16.06 an hour, or just over $33,000 annually, for a single person or $35 an hour, or just under $73,000 annually, for household of one adult, and one child. Either way, those wages are much higher than Wisconsin's minimum wage of $7.25, or hourly pay for its most common, lowest-paying jobs. For example, school bus monitors are paid an average of $12.60 an hour; child care workers $13 and home health care aides $14.09, according to Wisconsin-specific data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. More: Wisconsin politicians have specific goals for careers-focused education. What are they? Report: For jobs paying over 50K annually, 58% usually require a four-year degree Whether because of retirements or career changes, job projections suggest an average of 357,000 positions need filling annually from 2020 to 2030. Most of those open jobs three in four don't require a college degree and pay less than $50,000 a year. The question of how to get a higher-paying job often comes down to training. Focusing their research just on jobs paying at least $50,000 annually, researchers from the Wisconsin Policy Forum found: 58.1% of jobs generally required at least a four-year degree; 5.9% generally required a two-year degree, certificate or technical diploma; 36.1% generally required related training or experience, but not a traditional degree. Of the most in-demand, higher-paying jobs in Wisconsin, the one most in demand through 2030 is nursing. The field sees more than 3,600 openings each year and pays an average annual salary of $73,540. Becoming a registered nurse at minimum requires a two-year degree associate's degree, although many prospective nurses go through four-year degree programs. Just 7% of job openings in Wisconsin pay at least $75,000 annually. Of those, 91% require at least a bachelor's degree, according to the Wisconsin Policy Forum analysis. Still, 1 in 3 higher-paying jobs don't come with requirements for traditional degree Reading between the lines, the Wisconsin Policy Forum report suggests a substantial portion of jobs paying over $50,000 a year over one in three, or 36% don't require a college degree. Five of the 10 most in-demand, higher-paying jobs in Wisconsin through 2030 fall into that category. They include: Sales representatives, such as in manufacturing and wholesale Agricultural managers, such as farmers and ranchers "First-line supervisors of production and operating workers," a job title used by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics to describe managers in several industries, such as manufacturing and retail "First-line supervisors for office and administrative support workers," another U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics title, which describes office or administrative managers in industries like manufacturing, transportation, business support or health care Carpenters Many high-paying jobs that don't technically require a degree do require apprenticeships. That means they still come with time spent in a classroom and, often, years of on-the-job training. Apprenticeships in Wisconsin are overseen by the Department of Workforce Development. State standards require apprentices to spend at least 144 hours taking classes related to their profession, usually through a technical college. Employers must also pay an hourly wage for an apprentice's time learning in the classroom. The state does not require employers to cover tuition or per-credit costs, although many do in exchange for employment commitments. More: What's a good paying job in Milwaukee? These are the industries with the highest-paid workers Cleo Krejci covers higher education, vocational training and retraining as a Report For America corps member based at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Contact her at CKrejci@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter @_CleoKrejci. Support her work with a tax-deductible donation at bit.ly/RFADonation. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Do I need a college degree to get a high-paying job in Wisconsin? John Oliver has opened up about his exit from The Daily Show in 2013, suggesting that had the network allowed for him to continue hosting the summer segments, the main host Jon Stewart likely wouldve stayed longer too. The Emmy-winning Last Week Tonight host, 46, joined Comedy Centrals satirical news program in 2006 as its senior British correspondent. He also stood in for Stewart for two months in 2013, before quitting at the end of the year. I didnt stay at The Daily Show because Jon was still there and Comedy Central didnt care about me, Oliver said on a recent episode of Marc Marons WTF podcast. My contract expired at the end of the year that I hosted for Jon over that summer. And I think it became clear at the end of that, that they didnt really care about me, the comedian continued. Oliver explained that the plan had been for him to become the permanent summer host to give Stewart time off. The network, however, was not interested in that at all, Oliver said, adding: Which is fine, but it is now painfully obvious. I think they could have had [Stewart] for longer if theyd allowed that. John Oliver and Jon Stewart (Getty Images) Following his Daily Show departure, Oliver went on to front his own HBO series, Last Week Tonight, which is preparing to enter its 11th season on Sunday (18 February). Stewart took over The Daily Show in 1999 from original host Craig Kilborn. He eventually left the show in 2015, handing over the reins to South African comedian Trevor Noah. Noah helmed the show from 2015 until 2022, when he signed off for the last time. Last month, it was announced that Stewart would return to host The Daily Show for the duration of the 2024 US Presidential election cycle. He will make his comeback as the seriess regular Monday night host on 12 February. The rest of the week will be hosted by Daily Show correspondents, such as Desi Lydic, Michael Kosta, Ronny Chieng and Jordan Klepper. Oliver reacted to Stewarts surprise return, saying: Thats a show that needs a host. He certainly is a very, very good one. So yeah, itll be exciting to see what he does. He added that after 2025, they should appoint a permanent host, naming another correspondent Roy Wood Jr and former Peacock host Amber Ruffin as suitable replacements. But its going to be very exciting to see Jon again in an election year, as well. That is watchable, Oliver quipped. John Roe, founding partner at one of Nashvilles preeminent law firms and one of Tennessees top real estate lawyers, died Tuesday. He was 77. Roes death came after he battled pancreatic cancer, according to a news release from the law firm he founded. Roe, a well-respected figure in Nashvilles legal community, founded what later became Sherrard Roe Voigt & Harbison in 1981. His founding partners recall his sharp intellect, penchant for negotiation and civility both in and outside the courtroom. John leaves behind the legacy of a wonderful family and a superb 50-year legal career, Tom Sherrard, a founding partner who worked with Roe for more than 40 years, said in the news release. We were all the beneficiaries of his wisdom and leadership in establishing our law firm, which is truly a family for all of us. We will miss John terribly and mourn his passing, but we will celebrate our shared memories and remember the kindness he showed others. John Roe, a founding partner at what is now Sherrard Roe Voigt & Harbison, died Tuesday after a battle with pancreatic cancer. Throughout his career, Roe established himself as an expert in real estate and tax law. He co-wrote the Tennessee Condominium Act of 2008. Sherrard said he was beloved by staff and lawyers at the law firm and had an impeccable reputation among Nashville legal professionals. John inspired generations in our firm and in our community with his keen intellect, warm humor, generous mentoring, and adventurous spirit, said Bill Harbison, a partner and longtime leader at the firm. John Howard Roe, Jr. was born four days after Christmas 1946 in Springfield, Tennessee, to John Howard Roe Sr. and Lillian C. Roe. While growing up in Clarksville, Roe was part of the Boy Scouts, with which he remained involved until his death. After briefly practicing law in Atlanta, Roe moved back to Middle Tennessee in 1974. He graduated from Clarksville High School and then Davidson College in North Carolina. After graduation, he returned to Middle Tennessee and attended law school at Vanderbilt University, graduating first in his class in 1972. After briefly practicing law in Atlanta, Roe returned to Nashville in 1974. Along with former Vanderbilt law professor Sherrard and James Thomas OHare, he created OHare, Sherrard & Roe in 1981. Sherrard said Roe consistently brought in the most clients to the firm, thanks to his intelligence, memory and problem solving that earned him a reputation as one of the citys brightest young lawyers. Sherrard, who has since retired, attributed much of Sherrard Roe Voigt & Harbisons positive culture and commitment to excellence to Roe. John was an unequivocally kind person, Sherrard said. He created a culture where there was no door slamming or cursing in our firm. There was a positive approach to living everyday and not taking yourself too seriously. In addition to his legal career, Roe contributed to the preservation and development of Clarksville over the years. He saved the 100-year-old building in which his high school was housed, the news release says. He also helped create the Wade Bourne Nature Center at Rotary Park in Clarksville, according to the release. He was also involved with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Nashville and served as the board chair in 2005. Roe retired from Sherrard Roe Voigt & Harbison in 2019, 38 years after its founding. Sherrard said Roe loved the outdoors. Hiking, swimming and sitting on the deck with his wife, children, grandchildren and friends at his home in Monteagle were among as his favorite pastimes. Roe is survived by his wife of 20 years, Jane Buchi Roe, and his sister Lynne Wilson. He also is survived by his three children: Lillian Gilmer, John Roe and Alan Roe, and 15 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his previous wife of 34 years, Emily Hunt Roe. Services will be held at Westminster Presbyterian Church on Saturday, Feb. 10. Visitation will be held at 2:30 p.m., with a celebration of life service at 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the American Cancer Society or Habitat for Humanity of Greater Nashville. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: John Roe, founding partner of major Nashville law firm, dies at 77 Actor Jonathan Majors and Meagan Good arrive for closing arguments in Majors' domestic violence trial at Manhattan Criminal Court on Dec. 15, 2023, in New York City. Majors had plead not guilty but faces up to a year in jail if convicted on misdemeanor charges of assault and harassment of an ex-girlfriend. Actor Jonathan Majors and Meagan Good arrive for closing arguments in Majors' domestic violence trial at Manhattan Criminal Court on Dec. 15, 2023, in New York City. Majors had plead not guilty but faces up to a year in jail if convicted on misdemeanor charges of assault and harassment of an ex-girlfriend. Two more women have come forward accusing actor Jonathan Majors of abusing them physically and emotionally. In an interview with The New York Times and in pretrial statements to a separate assault case, Emma Duncan who was engaged to Majors between 2015 and 2019 accused the Marvel actor of emotionally and physically abusing her, including by choking, bruising and throwing her around. She recounted how, following a confrontation with him, Majors threw her into a couch at a hotel in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and stated, Im going to kill you. He also allegedly said, Im going to make sure you cant have children. Majors lawyer, Priya Chaudhry, said on Thursday that the actor did not physically abuse Duncan. Chaudhry denied the account of the hotel incident, but acknowledged that the two had many serious arguments and that Majors is now choosing to take responsibility for his own part in that toxic relationship, focusing on himself, and addressing his lifelong depression. Maura Hooper, another ex-girlfriend who dated Majors between 2013 and 2015, also alleged that he emotionally abused her, claiming that he became controlling over where she went, who she socialized with and how she behaved. In a pretrial statement, Hooper said that she was not allowed to speak to anyone about their relationship, isolating her from a support system. Chaudhry said Majors was young and insecure at the time of his relationship with Hooper. Looking back, he is embarrassed by some of his jealous behavior, she said. Chaudhry did not immediately respond to HuffPosts request for additional comment. The new allegations come just a few months after Majors was convicted for recklessly assaulting his ex-girlfriend, Grace Jabbari. After a two-week trial in December, the actor was found guilty on charges of misdemeanor assault and harassment stemming from an alleged fight between him and Jabbari in New York Citys Chinatown in March. Majors has a long history of alleged controlling, intimidating and abusive behavior with his partners and on sets. Both Duncan and Hoopers experiences with Majors were first referred to in the Rolling Stones investigative report. Related... The four people killed in the February 2019 shooting are, clockwise from upper left, Yuliana Garcia, Jacob Montgomery, Carlos Campos Rivera and Juan Duarte Raya. A man who murdered four people in Palm Springs just over five years ago was sentenced to death Friday. Jose Larin-Garcia, now 24, was convicted of four counts of murder last year for the 2019 shooting. In February 2023, a jury voted to sentence him to death for the four killings, including of one juvenile, during what is arguably among the most violent nights in Palm Springs' history. Riverside County Superior Court Judge Anthony Villalobos upheld the jury's sentence Friday at the Larson Justice Center in Indio during a hearing that was emotional for all involved. "This is one of the most difficult cases I've sit on," said Villalobos soon before sentencing the man to death. "No one here is walking away unscathed. There is no way to make this right. The only thing I can do is what the law provides." Deputy District Attorney Samantha Paixao read a letter written by the son of one of the victims, Carlos Campos Rivera, who was 10 years old when his father was killed. "There are no words to describe how this has impacted me," Paixao read, pausing at times to gather herself through the emotion of the letter. "How am I supposed to articulate something that has turned my life completely upside down? I had everything in the world at that point until I lost my best friend in the world, my dad." The young man, who is in high school now years after his father's killing, wrote to the convicted: "I still cant understand why you would do such an evil thing." Maria Morales, center, speaks to the court during Jose Larin-Garcia's sentencing hearing Friday at the Larson Justice Center in Indio. Morales is the mother of Yuliana Garcia, one of four people Larin-Garcia is convicted of murdering. Maria Morales, the mother of Yuliana Garcia, echoed the pain of loss and the confusion of having no simple answers about why four young people are dead and a man condemned. "She didn't deserve to die this way. All she wanted was good for people," Morales said of her daughter. "Theres not a day since this horrible tragedy that I dont cry. ... As for Mr. Larin-Garcia, I just want to know why. Why did you do this? Why did you make this choice to take four peoples lives? You did this to yourself; you did this to your mom, to everyone who is sitting here." And Yudis Garcia, Larin-Garcia's mother, appealed to the judge for mercy on her now condemned son. "As a mother, I understand what they are going through. I understand her pain," Garcia said through a Spanish language interpreter, speaking of the relatives of those killed. "Not only did they lose their son, I am losing mine too. ... He should not be judged without complete certainty, because I know my son didn't do this." Palm Springs police were dispatched to reports of shots fired just after midnight on Feb. 3, 2019, at the 3700 block of East Sunny Dunes Road, where a car had crashed into a wall in front of a residence. Found inside were the bodies of Yuliana Garcia, 17; Jacob Montgomery, 19; and Juan Duarte Raya, 18. Blocks away Campos Rivera, 25, was found dead on Canon Drive. All of them had been fatally shot. The killings set off a manhunt that resulted in Larin-Garcia's arrest at a bus station in Indio the next day. Police say a friend had purchased him a ticket to Florida under a fake name. Larin-Garcia's attorney, John Dolan, filed motions in advance of Friday's hearing, for a new trial and to exempt his client from the death penalty. Villalobos ruled against them. Prosecutors presented evidence during two trials that Larin-Garcia had ridden with the three in the car to the home of Campos Rivera, who had arranged to purchase pills from one of the passengers. Paixao presented evidence that Larin-Garcia shot and killed Campos Rivera during the interaction. The driver of the vehicle sped off and blocks later, she said, Larin-Garcia shot and killed all three of the people with him in the car before jumping out of the vehicle. Larin-Garcia was found by police hiding under a truck near the crashed car, where he had removed some articles of clothing. He was taken to the hospital, which he left that night and was at large until his arrest at the bus stop. "Jose Vladimir Larin-Garcia, on February 3, 2019, executed four people. For no reason. He deserves the greater punishment of death," said Paixao before the jury voted on what sentence to recommend. And she maintained Friday that the jury and Villalobos made the correct decision: "I have no doubt that Jose Vladimir Larin-Garcia executed each person that night," Paixao said. "I'm glad that justice was served for the families," she continued. "The community has spoken through the jurors, and they were decisive in their decision that Jose Vladimir Larin Garcia is guilty and should suffer the greatest punishment that our law allows. The impact that this has had on their families is unimaginable and will never end." Larin-Garcia's attorney, John Dolan, said he believed the jury got it wrong and vowed to appeal the decision. Dolan had seized on holes in the police investigation, like that the murder weapon had never been recovered, to claim that the actual shooter remained at large. Those claims were among the issues that led to the first jury announcing they couldn't agree on a verdict. Villalobos declared a mistrial in the first trial in March 2022. Larin-Garcia was re-tried and convicted in 2023. Dolan asked the judge Friday to take the death penalty off the table in consideration of Larin-Garcia's age, 19 at the time of the shootings, and his allegation that the real shooter has yet to be found. That motion was denied during the hearing. "They convicted the wrong person. That was covered in two trials," Dolan said during an interview Friday. "I will make the files available to the appellate counsel that will be appointed and think there's plenty of reason for this case to be reversed and sent back to trial." Elmer Garcia, Larin-Garcia's cousin, similarly expressed his frustration after the ruling Friday that questions remained unanswered, like the location of the murder weapon. "There are a lot of mysteries in this case," said Garcia in the court hall. "If he was shooting from inside the car, where is the gun? I feel badly that people died. But we need to be 100% sure that he killed them." Riverside County sentenced one man to death last year, and has sentenced five between 2022 and 2018. California has not executed a person since 2006, while 665 people were on death row in the state last year. Christopher Damien covers public safety and the criminal justice system. He can be reached at christopher.damien@desertsun.com or follow him at @chris_a_damien. This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Judge hands down death penalty for murder of 4 people in Palm Springs NORMAN, Okla. (KFOR) Lincoln County Judge Traci Soderstrom, who was accused of texting her bailiff during a murder trial, has decided to resign from her position, according to a release sent by her attorney on Thursday afternoon. Headshot of Judge Traci Soderstrom on KFOR background My core beliefs and the variables that served me well as an attorneyhonesty, preparation, principles and passion, are better utilized as an advocate and not an arbiter, reads the closing paragraph of Soderstroms statement. The actions necessary to disseminate the information and required to hold each person and elected official accountable for their actions require more than a trial before the Judiciary. For these reasons, I have decided to resign from my position as District Judge for Judicial District 23. Soderstrom was sworn in on Jan. 9, 2023, after being elected in November. Her four-year term would have expired in January 2027. News 4 initially reported on Soderstrom back in October, when Oklahoma Supreme Court Chief Justice John Kane called for her removal from the bench after she allegedly sent over 500 text messages to her bailiff during her first murder trial in June 2023. The text messages reportedly appeared to make fun of prosecutors, witnesses and jurors during a trial of a 2-year-old beaten to death in 2018. Soderstroms full statement can be read below. My faith, family and friends are first and foremost in my life. Directly behind these three foundational pillars is my core belief that each person is required equal justice and personal responsibility. During my career as an attorney, I developed a reputation for being brutally honest, hard-charging advocate for my clients. I have always taken great pride in being acknowledged for my preparation, principles and passion by my clients, other attorneys and the judges that I appeared before. After almost 20 years of serving as an attorney-advocate, I had come to a point of disillusion and frustration with the publics perception in the decline in the American judicial system. I ran for District Judge with the hope of restoring the communitys faith in that system. It was the honor of a lifetime wo win a hard-fought election to serve as a District Judge for the Lincoln and Pottawatomie Counties. When I took the judicial oath on January 9th, 2023, I promised to uphold the Constitution in a fair, even-handed and efficient manner. I promised to ensure the law and procedures were applied equally to Plaintiff and Defendant alike. In spite of resistance at nearly every turn, I believe that I have done so. However, being human, I have also faltered. My core belief in personal responsibility requires me to publicly take responsibility for my transgressions and defend the allegations that are false. I believed the best avenue for that was with a public trial. I have stood by that decision without fear. What I found regarding the behavior of others during my time behind the closed veil of the judiciary and during preparation for my trial was nothing if not to say shocking. Manipulating the jury selection process, holding citizens without lawful authority, secret tape recordings of judicial officers, and even false threats of criminal prosecution are a small example. My core beliefs and the variables that served me well as an attorneyhonesty, preparation, principles and passion, are better utilized as an advocate and not an arbiter. The actions necessary to disseminate the information and required to hold each person and elected official accountable for their actions require more than a trial before the Judiciary. For these reasons, I have decided to resign from my position as District Judge for Judicial District 23. Traci Soderstrom According to section 4b. of the Settlement Stipulation filed on Thursday, Soderstrom is now ineligible for a future judicial position in the state of Oklahoma. The document cites Title 20, 92i of the Oklahoma Statutes, which reads in part No one who has been removed from judicial office or who has resigned from office pending disciplinary proceedings shall qualify to file as a candidate for judicial office. State-of-OK-vs-Soderstrom-final-orderDownload For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. KALAMAZOO, Mich. (WOOD) The Kalamazoo Public Schools Board of Education will interview four applicants on Friday to fill a vacant board position. Of the 18 applications reviewed during a special meeting on Thursday, five candidates were invited to attend an interview. The district said that one candidate was unable to attend the interview on Friday. The four applicants who will be interviewed are: Carol McGlinn at 6:15 p.m.: She is a former KPS board member. She recently retired as executive director from SLD Read, an organization that has partnered with KPS on various literacy initiatives. Jacqueline Slaby at 6:45 p.m.: She is a neighborhood activator for the City of Kalamazoo who served as a school board member for six years in another Michigan district. Margaret Hale-Smith at 7:15 p.m.: She worked as an administrator in higher education. After retirement, she has worked as a substitute teacher in the district. Ronnie Coleman at 7:45 p.m.: A pastor and retired executive from Consumers Energy who served for 16 years as a school board member in another Michigan district. Kalamazoo Public Schools invites applicants to fill board position Once again, the community has shown a sincere interest in supporting the students of Kalamazoo Public Schools, TiAnna Harrison, school board president, said in a release. We are grateful for each applicant who took the time to apply for this vacancy. The chosen applicant will fill a seat left vacant by trustee Maricela Alcala through December 2024. She resigned on Jan. 11. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. TOPEKA, Kan. Kansas attorney general is telling public schools theyre required to tell parents their children are transgender or non-binary even if theyre not out at home, though Kansas is not among the states with a law that explicitly says to do that. Republican Kris Kobachs action was his latest move to restrict transgender rights, following his successful efforts last year to temporarily block Democratic Gov. Laura Kellys administration from changing the listings for sex on transgender peoples birth certificates and drivers licenses to reflect their gender identities. Olathe man one of 5 Marines killed in California helicopter crash Its also part of a trend of GOP attorneys general asserting their authority in culture war issues without a specific state law. Kobach maintains that failing to disclose when a child is socially transitioning or identifying as non-binary at school violates a parents rights. He sent letters in December to six school districts and the state association for local school board members, then followed up with a public statement Thursday after four districts, all in northeast Kansas, didnt rewrite their policies. The Kansas attorney generals letters to superintendents of three Kansas City-area districts, Topekas superintendent and the Kansas Association of School Boards accused them of having surrendered to woke gender ideology. His letters didnt say what he would do if they didnt specifically require teachers and administrators to out transgender and non-binary students. UCM warns of hack as students lose financial aid money in scam LGBTQ+ rights advocates saw the letters as seeking policies that put transgender and non-binary youth in physical danger but also as an attempt to tell transgender people that theyre not welcome. Jordan Smith, leader of the Kansas chapter of the LGBTQ+ rights group Parasol Patrol, said forced outing will create more anxiety for students and even push some back into the closet. Its like they dont want us to exist in public places, said Smith, who is non-binary. Five states have laws requiring schools to inform parents if their children use different pronouns, socially transition to a gender different than the one assigned at birth or present as non-binary, according to the Movement Advancement Project, which supports transgender rights. Another six have laws that encourage it, the project says. Kansas is on neither list. A bill introduced last year would bar schools from using the preferred pronouns for a student under 18 without a parent or guardians written permission, but it did not clear a Senate committee. 7-year-old Independence girl dies after crash blamed on pothole GOP lawmakers did enact a law over Kellys veto that ended the states legal recognition of transgender and non-binary identities by defining male and female for legal purposes based on a persons reproductive anatomy identified at birth. But Republican state Sen. Renee Erickson of Wichita, a vocal supporter and a former middle school principal, said it does not cover issues about whether schools must inform parents about a childs gender identity at school. Erickson said she now favors taking a look at the bill before a Senate committee, saying it addresses a policy gap. The parents have a right to know what is affecting their child. Theyre an integral part, if not the most important part, in helping their child grow and develop with the values that the parent wants, she said. But Kobach didnt cite Kansas law in his letters to the state school boards association, the Topeka school district and the Kansas City, Shawnee Mission and Olathe school districts in the Kansas City area. Instead, he cited U.S. Supreme Court decisions going back as far as 1923 that he said affirmed parents rights to control how their children are raised. His office released copies Thursday. Blue Springs voters approve bond issue for career center, school updates He told each of the four district that its policies on transgender students violated parents rights and said two other districts in the Wichita area quickly rewrote their policies after his letter arrived. In his letter to the school boards group, he noted it provides legal help to local districts. It would be arrogant beyond belief to hide something with such weighty consequences from the very people (parents) that both law and nature vest with providing for a childs long-term well-being, Kobach wrote in each of the letters. State attorneys general serve as the lead lawyers for state governments, and most also oversee at least some criminal prosecutions. But they also look outward, and Kobachs letters werent the first to issue warnings not grounded in a specific state law. Last year, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sent requests to at least two medical providers that dont operate in his state for information about providing gender-affirming care as part of an investigation, though its not clear what Texas law would cover them. Washington states attorney general invoked a law there to block Seattle Childrens Hospital from complying, and QueerMed, a Georgia-based telehealth provider, said on its website that it will not comply. View the latest headlines from Kansas City, Missouri, and Kansas at fox4kc.com As for Kobach, Tom Alonzo, a Kansas City, Kansas, LGBTQ+ rights advocate, argued that the Kansas attorney general is bent on intentional marginalization of transgender people. Theres no excuse for it, he said as he staffed a table Thursday in the Statehouse. I was a gay kid hiding in high school. I remember how ugly high school can be if youre out. While the Kansas City, Kansas, district declined comment, the other three districts said they deal with transgender and non-binary students case by case and seek to work with parents. The Topeka district expressed confidence that its practices are legal. The four districts are among the largest in Kansas and together have more than 88,000 students or 18% of the total for the states public schools. The strongest response came from Michelle Hubbard, the Shawnee Mission superintendent, in her districts response in December. She said it is rarely the case that students seek something entirely opposed by their parents. Download the FOX4 News app on iPhone and Android She also chided Kobach for not citing actual cases in the district of parents rights being violated and suggested that he was relying on misinformation from partisan sources. She called his use of woke as an insult disappointing in an attorney general. We are not caricatures from the polarized media, but rather real people who work very hard in the face of intense pressure on public schools, Hubbard wrote. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. Kansas attorney general said school policies allowing staff to conceal a students transgender or nonbinary identity violate parental rights, even though Kansas does not have a law mandating that schools disclose a students gender identity to their parents. A child changing his or her gender identity has major long-term medical and psychological ramifications, Attorney General Kris Kobach said in a statement Thursday. Parents should know, and have an opportunity to be involved in, such an important aspect of their well-being. Kobachs statement follows a letter he said he sent early last year to six Kansas school districts to inform them that their policies allowing school staff to conceal a students transgender or gender-nonconforming status from parents violated parental rights. Two of the districts, the Belle Plaine School District and Maize Unified School District, told Kobach at the time that they did not intend to conceal students gender identities from parents, according to Kobachs statement. However, four other school districts the Kansas City Kansas Unified School District, Olathe Unified School District, Shawnee Mission Unified School District and Topeka Unified School District dug in their heels and essentially asserted that school administrators know better than parents, Kobach stated. Kobach said some of the districts denied that their policies allowed staff to conceal a students transgender status from parents. The Olathe school district, located just outside Kansas City, requested a meeting with Kobach, but despite repeated attempts by the Attorney Generals staff, no such meeting has been scheduled, Kobach said. In December, Kobach sent another letter to the four holdout districts in which he reiterated that their policies appear to violate parental rights and asked them a series of questions about the policies. For example, Kobach asked the Shawnee Mission school district, Has any teacher, administrator, or other [district] employee ever knowingly used the birth name and biological-sex-associated pronouns of a child when discussing that child with his/her parent or legal guardian, but used a different name or set of pronouns for the child at school or otherwise away from that parent or legal guardian? The Olathe school district said in a statement Thursday that it doesnt have a formal policy regarding how staff should handle a students transgender status and such a policy has never been approved by the Board of Education. The policy Kobach criticized in his December letter, the district said, is part of internal administrative guidelines for staff to use on a case-by-case basis. As a district, it is always our intent and practice to work directly and partner with individual families and students as situations arise to ensure we are providing the appropriate and necessary support, the Olathe district said. We trust our staff to put the best interests of families and students at the heart of every decision. The district added that it first received written communication from Kobach on Dec. 11, 2023, and that it responded to that letter on Dec. 19, 2023. Since then, the district has been in regular contact with the Attorney Generals office to schedule a time to meet and discuss any misinterpretations and/or miscommunications that the Attorney Generals office has regarding the matter, the Olathe district said, adding that it was unable to meet with a representative from the attorney generals office on Feb. 2, and that it offered six additional meeting dates. The Kansas City, Shawnee Mission and Topeka districts did not immediately return a request for comment. However, in December, Superintendent Michelle Hubbard of the Shawnee Mission Unified School District issued a strongly worded response to Kobachs letter and criticized him for not citing actual examples of parents rights being violated by the districts policy. She said he relied on misinformation from partisan sources and said students rarely seek to conceal information from their parents, The Associated Press reported. We are not caricatures from the polarized media, but rather real people who work very hard in the face of intense pressure on public schools, she said in the districts response, according to the AP. Kobachs letter to the districts, for example, cites an organization called Parents Defending Education, a conservative group working to reclaim our schools from activists. Kobach also sent a December letter to the Kansas Association of School Boards based on evidence that KASB may have been involved in promoting policies that push parents out of the way on this issue, he wrote in his Thursday statement. He said KASB declined to comment on whether it had been involved in drafting such policies, and either confirm or deny that it had been involved in drafting such policies. In an emailed statement to NBC News, Brian Jordan, KASBs executive director, didnt directly address Kobachs statement, but he said Kansas schools respect and value the rights of parents, which are well established. Open lines of communication and trust are essential in this partnership, Jordan said. Each school district depends on locally elected school board members to establish policies and provide accountability. These people are in the best position to make decisions for their local communities. Justin Brace, the executive director of Transgender Heartland, a Kansas-based trans rights group, said Kobachs latest statement is yet another overreach trying to erase trans people from existence in Kansas. This policy would unnecessarily out transgender students, and students questioning or exploring their gender to their parents before they are ready to talk about it, Brace said. We need to stop trying to pass policies that erase trans kids from existence, and directly impact their mental health everyday instead of letting them simply exist as kids who are learning, growing, and becoming themselves, which is what school is all about. Five states have laws forcing the outing of transgender youth in schools Alabama, Iowa, Indiana, North Carolina and North Dakota and six additional states have laws promoting, though not mandating, such outings, according to Movement Advancement Project, an LGBTQ think tank. Kansas is not among these states. The states Legislature failed to pass a bill last year that wouldve barred school staff from using a different name or pronouns for a student than those they were assigned at birth. Kobachs statement is his most recent move targeting trans people in the state. In July, he sued Democratic Gov. Laura Kellys administration to prevent trans people from updating the sex on their drivers licenses, and that lawsuit is ongoing. In response to that court filing, the state Department of Health and Environment decided in September that it would no longer allow trans people to change the sex on their birth certificates. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com KANSAS CITY, Mo. A Kansas City man has been convicted of raping of a child under 12 in Jackson County, prosecutors say. A Jackson County jury convicted 23-year-old Brandon Williams of four counts of first-degree rape for assaulting a young girl. Download the FOX4 News app on iPhone and Android Court records say the girl reported Williams raped her repeatedly for a period of two years. Williams is scheduled to be sentenced on April 4, but prosecutors noted his four convictions each require a sentence of life without parole. In Missouri a life sentence is 30 years. Regardless, the 23-year-old faces a total of 120 years in prison. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. KAYSVILLE, Utah (ABC4) A Kaysville police officer was taken to the hospital with moderate to serious injuries early Friday morning, Feb. 9, after stopping a wrong-way driver with his patrol car on I-15. Utah Highway Patrol said the crash happened just before 2 a.m. near mile marker 328 near the Farmington area. Davis County dispatch had put out a report of a wrong-way driver, traveling northbound in southbound lanes on I-15. The unidentified Kaysville officer responded to the call and began to enter the southbound ramp near 200 North. UHP said the officer immediately encountered the wrong-way driver. The Kaysville officer quickly crossed the dirt gore area between the on-ramp and I-15, crossed all lanes of the interstate and collided with the wrong-way Tesla to stop the driver, according to authorities. The officers vehicle was heavily damaged in the incident and he was extricated by medical personnel and transported to the hospital with moderate to serious injuries, UHP said in a statement. Kaysville PD Assistant Chief Seth Ellington confirmed with ABC4 the officer was treated at the hospital and has since been released. Ellington said he is now at home and doing OK. The driver of the Tesla was not injured in the crash and was taken into custody on suspicion of DUI. His identity has not been publicly released. Southbound lanes of I-15 were closed for a couple of hours for an investigation into the crash and to clear the scene. Traffic was temporarily diverted off the 200 North off-ramp and back up on the on-ramp around the crash. The interstate was reopened around 4:30 a.m. the same day. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. For years, Larry Euston of Leawood kept his white Kansas City Chiefs cheerleading sweater with the big red C on the chest. He kept the seat cushion from Super Bowl I in Los Angeles. As he turns 77 on Feb. 22, his ability to do backflips, as he could in 1967 as a 19-year-old Rockhurst College student, has long passed. This week, as the Chiefs gear up for Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas their fourth Super Bowl outing in five years Eustons memories cant help but float back to when the games Roman numeral was a single digit: I. I mean, can you imagine at that age, just the situation going to the Super Bowl, Euston said this week. Larry Euston of Leawood, in a photo from 2020, holds a picture of himself at age 19 in 1967 as a member of the Kansas City Chiefs cheerleading squad at Super Bowl I in Los Angeles. Courtesy Diane Euston OK, probably best to forget that the Chiefs on Jan. 15, 1967, lost Super Bowl I to the Green Bay Packers, 35-10. Fans prefer to remember the Chiefs victory three years later in Super Bowl IV. But Euston made history of his own as one among six young Kansas City men who were truly the first male cheerleaders to root at a Super Bowl. Much was made in 2019 at Super Bowl LIII when it was reported that two men cheering on the Los Angeles Rams would be the first men to cheer at a Super Bowl. That was wrong by 52 years. Answering your Super Bowl questions Have more questions about Chiefs vs. 49ers and fan celebrations around KC? Send them to kcq@kcstar.com. KCs Super Bowl parade could coincide with not 1, but 2 holidays The best & most entertaining prop bets for Chiefs-49ers game What Kansas City-area businesses have deal for the Super Bowl Even now, Euston said, he remembers the beautiful Los Angles weather. He remembers the Chiefs running onto the field at the Los Angeles Coliseum, and how the cheer squad would hold up a simple white placard, Go, to rouse the fans. And he remembers the steak. Yes, the steak served on the chartered Boeing 707 that they flew together with the Chiefs superfan Red Coaters. It was almost like a first-class flight, Euston said. They had filet mignons for each person, branded with the Chiefs Arrowhead logo on it. The Kansas City Chiefs cheerleading squad in Los Angeles in January 1967 for Super Bowl I. Larry Euston stands in the back row to the right. Courtesy of Diane Euston Oh, he also has photos, including outside the Los Angeles Coliseum. In 2020, Eustons daughter, Diane who is an English, broadcasting and KC history teacher at Grandview High School wrote a piece about her father as a reporter for The Telegraph serving Martin City and south Kansas City. Part of her intention was to correct the record on who the first real male cheerleaders were at a Super Bowl. They made a huge deal all over the news, Diane Euston said of the 2019 story. They were on like Good Morning America. Youre the first two male cheerleaders ever in the Super Bowl. Im like, Thats not true. Thats what causes misinformation. She said she knew her dad had been a Chiefs cheerleader before she was in kindergarten. At age 3, she dressed up as a cheerleader with a sweater with her first initial, D, on the front. I can remember my dad saying, Look, just like me. Because he had the white sweater with the red C in the middle. Larry Euston, a KC Chiefs cheerleader at Super Bowl I in 1967, helps with squad tryouts held at Ward Parkway shopping center. Diane Euston The Rams at the Super Bowl ended up losing to the New England Patriots, 13-3, in Atlanta. At Super Bowl I, Euston was on the squad with five other men, including his friend Mike Nauman, who had recommended him after another cheerleader was injured and had to drop out. Not only were men on the Chiefs cheerleading squad for Super Bowl I, they were on it with young women from the earliest days, soon after owner Lamar Hunt in 1963 moved the team from Dallas, where they were then called the Dallas Texans. The cheerleading squad was started by Randy Neil, a then 21-year-old junior at the University of Kansas after he transferred from the University of Kansas City, now UMKC. Last year, the Chiefs released a video celebrating 60 years of Chiefs cheerleading that started and ended with Neil, who said he had always wanted to be a cheerleader. The June 19, 1963, Kansas City Star reported that 10 youths from area schools have volunteered to lead cheers for the team. Randy Neil, 21, was the Chiefs head cheerleader. The Kansas City Star Euston cheered for the Chiefs for another year until 1968 when the squad became all female. Euston keeps a black and white photograph of him hoisting a young woman during a tryout, then held at Ward Parkway shopping center. If further proof is needed, Euston also possesses a letter, sent to him from Lamar Hunt. Date: June 5, 1968: Dear Larry, A very belated but most appreciative thank you for the outstanding job you have done for the Kansas City Chiefs not only your participation as a cheerleader, but the many extra hours so willingly given to promotional work. Again, thanks for being on our team. A 1968 letter to cheerleader Larry Euston from Chiefs founder Lamar Hunt, thanking Euston for being on our team. Diane Euston After college, Euston would go on to work as a commercial pilot and retire after nearly 40 years. He has three children and some grandchildren, and splits his time between Leawood and a home in Florida. He remains an avid Kansas City Chiefs fan, and will be watching them on TV Sunday. Although neither of his two sons or daughter became a cheerleader, Euston said, the granddaughter of a cousin did. Her name is Josie Euston. She cheers for the Chiefs. Larry Euston kept his seat cushion commemorating the first Super Bowl. Diane Euston Kemi Badenoch has been speaking about her motivations for becoming a Conservative - Geoff Pugh Kemi Badenoch has revealed that she almost died in flash flooding last year and had to wade through the water to safety in high heels. The Business Secretary was travelling back from an event in her constituency in Saffron Walden, Essex, in April with her husband when they were suddenly surrounded by water. Ms Badenoch told The Times: I always used to think, how do people die in flash floods? But the water came from nowhere. And there was just a slight dip in the road and suddenly, all the electrics went off. We got out of the car. The water was thick and strong and fast. We were wading, waist deep, and it was pitch-black. I had heels on! She added that the family car had to be written off after the ordeal, but suggested that she had feared an even worse outcome. There could have been a by-election, she added. Kemi Badenoch has revealed that her friendship with Michael Gove was not what it used to be - Alamy/Tayfun Salci Ms Badenoch also spoke about her original motivations behind becoming a Conservative, which she said was in part because of being at university with snotty, middle-class North Londoners. One of the things that drove me insane was how they talked about Africa. So high-minded: we need to help Africans; lets boycott Nestle, because they make African mothers give their babies powdered milk. Having parents who were doctors, I knew when women are malnourished, formula milk might be a better alternative, and mothers with Aids cant breastfeed at all. She added: These stupid Leftie white kids didnt know what they were talking about. And that instinctively made me think, these are not my people. She said as her fellow students protested against tuition fees, she wrote a letter to her college newspaper that said: There are overseas students here who pay tens of thousands of pounds in fees and youre complaining about 1,000. Ms Badenoch added that the letter was published, but the editor added a snarky reply. The Business Secretary, who also holds a women and equalities brief, grew up in Lagos in Nigeria as the eldest of three children. Being a woman is so real She is known for being particularly outspoken about gender. I feel being a woman is a much stronger part of my identity than being black or Nigerian. Because it is so real. Puberty, menstruation, menopause. It is very biological. And I grew up in a place where people would exploit that. The Saffron Walden MP also revealed that her friendship with Michael Gove, the Levelling Up Secretary, was not what it used to be. Ms Badenoch said that Mr Gove, who had been her mentor and backed her in a leadership campaign to replace Boris Johnson in summer 2022, did something that was very, very annoying, which strained the relationship. Last year, it was reported that Mr Gove had had an affair with one of Ms Badenochs friends, who had since separated from her husband. When asked whether their friendship was finished, Ms Badenoch said: Its not what it used to be, but hes somebody I have to work with. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. A Kentucky man accused of helping knock a female police officer unconscious during the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol has been convicted in federal court. Stephen Chase Randolph, 34, of Harrdosburg was convicted on two felony charges related to assaulting the officer and another felony charge of civil disorder, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Randolph also was convicted on a misdemeanor charge of committing an act of violence on the Capitol grounds. A judge who heard the case without a jury acquitted Randolph on six other charges. Evidence at the trial showed Randolph was in a group of men who took part in the first breach of a restricted area at the Capitol and then attacked police officers, according to the DOJ. Randolph and four other men picked up a metal crowd-control barrier and shoved it into a line of police officers. The FBI says that Stephen Chase Randolph, a Harrodsburg resident, is shown in these photos participating in the U.S. Capitol Riot on Jan. 6, 2021. The barrier hit one female officer in the face, knocking her backward. The officer hit her head against a metal handrail and then hit her head on the stairs. She was knocked unconscious and suffered a concussion, according to the DOJ. Randolph also grabbed another police officer and tried to pull the person toward the crowd of rioters, but other officers intervened and forced them to release the officer. Randolph then went into the Capitol and stayed for several hours. The FBI was able to identify Randolph with the help of photos from the riot and photos posted on social media, according to a court document. When undercover FBI agents talked to Randolph before arresting him, Randolph admitted being involved in the melee and said it was f-----g fun, according to a court document. Randolph has been free on bond since he was arrested in 2021. Prosecutors asked that he be detained pending sentencing in June, but Randolphs attorney opposed that, arguing that the conduct that led to his conviction lasted for a minute and was an aberration in an otherwise law-abiding life. Randolph also is helping care for a relative who has late-stage pancreatic cancer, his attorney said in court documents. The judge has not entered a decision in the court record. Stephen Chase Randolph, a Harrodsburg resident, is accused of assaulting a police officer during the U.S. Capitol riot on Jan. 6, 2021, according to the FBI. Federal authorities have charged more than 1,200 people since the riot at the Capitol, which supporters of former President Donald Trump carried out to disrupt the official certification of the 2020 president election that President Joe Biden won. Trump has repeatedly claimed, falsely, that he lost because of voter fraud, but has not presented any credible evidence of widespread fraud in the election. Federal authorities have said more than 100 police officers were injured in the riot. The two Blount County sheriff's deputies who were shot, one fatally, during a traffic stop Feb. 8 were new to law enforcement, Sheriff James Lee Berrong said in a Facebook post. Berrong was visibly emotional during an early morning press conference in which he detailed the death of Deputy Greg McCowan and the wounding of Deputy Shelby Eggers on Feb. 8 during a traffic stop on Sevierville Road in Maryville. "I talked to his family earlier," he said of McCowan. "I apologize for not protecting him." Deputy Greg McCowan: From manufacturing to policing at 43 McCowan was 43 and began his full-time career at Blount County Sheriff's Office in 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Berrong said. McCowan previously had worked in manufacturing, but he was always interested in law enforcement, Berrong said, adding that McCowan had served as a reserve deputy before being hired as a patrol deputy. He attended the Blount County Sheriff's Office Regional Law Enforcement Academy and graduated in October 2020. Blount County Sheriff's Deputy Greg McCowan was shot and killed Feb. 8, 2024. Following graduation, McCowan served as a patrol deputy on the evening shift, Berrong said. He was awarded the Sheriffs Office Lifesaving commendation in April 2021 for his part in saving the life of a man trapped in a burning vehicle. The male driver had struck a house with his vehicle and the accelerator was still pressed to the floor causing the tires to spin. The disoriented man was inside the vehicle and physically resisted the law enforcement officers efforts to remove him from the vehicle. McCowan assisted in the successful effort to remove the man from the car. McCowan was an emergency medical responder and recently had been accepted on the Sheriffs Crisis Negotiations team, Berrong said, adding that McCowan was excited to put his recent certification to use. Deputy Shelby Eggers graduated from the academy in 2022 Blount County Sheriff's Deputy Shelby Eggers Eggers, 22, began her career at the Blount County Sheriffs Office in 2019 as a corrections deputy. She applied for and was accepted into the Sheriffs Office Regional Law Enforcement Training Academy and graduated in 2022. Eggers currently serves as a patrol deputy. Eggers knew before she graduated from Heritage High School in 2019 that she wanted to work for the sheriff's office, Berrong said. "She was excited when she was accepted into the academy, and like Deputy McCowan, she excelled as a recruit," he wrote. Eggers had gained some acclaim over the past few years for her beautiful voice, Berrong wrote, noting she was selected to sing the national anthem for her academy class graduation and subsequent academy graduations. In 2023, Eggers was chosen to perform the national anthem at the Smith & Wesson grand opening in front of hundreds of people. APRIL 6, 2023We thought you'd like to see and hear our own Deputy Shelby Eggers who performed the National Anthem today at our Class 026 Law Enforcement Academy Graduation Ceremony at East Maryville Baptist Church. Deputy Eggers serves as a Patrol Deputy. She graduated last fall from our Academy Class 025. Deputy Eggers is so talented and we wanted to share her performance with you! Sheriff James Lee Berrong would also like to thank the Maryville Police Department's Honor Guard for assisting us today. They were outstanding! Posted by Blount County Sheriff's Office on Thursday, April 6, 2023 How to donate to the McCowan family The Smoky Mountain chapter of the Tennessee Police Benevolent Association and the Police Benevolent Foundation have set up a memorial fund to help the McCowan family. McCowan is survived by his two children, Cayley and Cayden, and a granddaughter, Ella, according to information shared by the Police Benevolent Foundation. All funds donated will be directed to the family. Another fundraiser has been set up for McCowan's family with T-shirt and sweatshirt sales. The fundraiser has been approved by his family, according to the nonprofit Tennessee Blue Line. What is the status of the search for the man who killed Blount County deputy Greg McCowan? A statewide Blue Alert was issued for 42-year-old Kenneth Wayne DeHart, of Alcoa, who is wanted by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and the Blount County Sheriff's Office on charges of first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder and being felon in possession of a weapon. Anyone with information concerning DeHart's whereabouts is asked to call the Blount County Sheriff's Office at 865-981-7125 or the TBI at 800-TBI-FIND. A $100,000 reward is being offered. Liz Kellar is a Tennessee Connect reporter. Email liz.kellar@knoxnews.com. Support strong local journalism by subscribing at knoxnews.com/subscribe. This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: What to know about Blount County deputies shot Feb. 8 at traffic stop Hours after special counsel Robert Hur released a report concluding that President Biden did "willfully" retain classified documents from his time as vice president, depicting him as "well-intentioned, but sometimes hapless and forgetful" in his explanation for why it would be difficult to pursue a prosecution in the matter, Biden himself addressed his comments in a last-minute addition to his schedule for the day. Speaking from the Diplomatic Reception Room of the White House in Washington, DC., Biden lashed out at Hur, saying, I am well-meaning. And Im an elderly man. And I know what the hell Im doing. Ive been president I put this country back on its feet. I dont need his recommendation. Getting worked up on the issue of his age and memory being frequently called into question, Biden got into a heated exchange with CNNs MJ Lee, who asked why he is best equipped to take on Trump in a November general election. Because Im the most qualified person in this country to finish the job I started, Biden shot back. In an unfortunate flub, made minutes after defending his own memory, Biden mistakenly referred to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi as the president of Mexico while answering questions from reporters about hostage negotiations and humanitarian aid in the Gaza strip, according to CNN. Watch that moment here: Here's the moment where Joe Biden left the podium, came back, and then called the leader of Egypt the "president of Mexico." pic.twitter.com/lpM2qvh1Yf Justin Baragona (@justinbaragona) February 9, 2024 In a 388-page report released Thursday, special counsel Robert Hur laid out why the Justice Department wont be pressing charges against President Joe Biden for retaining classified documents from his vice presidency. But the report has prompted some Democrats to criticize Hur for alleging the 81-year-old president has a significantly limited memory. Hur, a Republican, served as U.S. attorney of Maryland from 2018 to 2021, after being appointed by former President Donald Trumps attorney general, Jeff Sessions. He previously clerked for two well-known conservative judges, including archconservative Supreme Court Justice William Rehnquist. Hur left his U.S. attorney post in 2021 to become a partner at the D.C.-based law firm Gibson Dunn. He was there until last January, when Attorney General Merrick Garland tapped him to oversee the departments probe into Bidens alleged mishandling of classified materials. Mr. Hur has a long and distinguished career as a prosecutor, Garland said when announcing Hur as his pick for special counsel. I am confident that Mr. Hur will carry out his responsibility in an even-handed and urgent manner, and in accordance with the highest traditions of this Department. As Hurs investigation of Biden began, he vowed to carry it out with fair, impartial, and dispassionate judgment. I intend to follow the facts swiftly and thoroughly, without fear or favor, and will honor the trust placed in me to perform this service, he said at the time. While Hur ultimately cleared Biden of any wrongdoing, he knocked the presidents mental acuity a detail that some Democrats said was extraneous, strange and unfair. The report went a little far by critiquing Bidens mental sharpness, Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.) told HuffPost, complaining about Trumps own wild factual errors. Hurs mandate was to judge whether a crime was committed... not speculate on what the jury would do, not to speculate on how full or sharp Joe Bidens mind is, Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) similarly said. Prior to being U.S. attorney, Hur was an assistant U.S. attorney for Maryland for seven years. He also clerked for Rehnquist and for former Judge Alex Kozinski of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. Kozinski is perhaps best known for stepping down in disgrace in 2017 after more than a dozen former female law clerks and staffers accused him of sexual harassment and abuse. Related... An arrest has been made in connection with the killings of two women on the city's east side, Indianapolis police and the Marion County Prosecutor's Office announced Friday afternoon. Here is what we know about the suspect. Who was arrested in the 2 Indianapolis killings? David Hiner, 30, was charged with two counts of murder in the deaths of Marianne Weis and Shannon Lassere. 'He's OK, he's family': Court docs shed light on Mitthoefer Road killings The suspect denied his involvement. When he was questioned by police, Hiner denied his involvement. He was living within walking distance of both killings. Hiner was staying at an apartment complex within walking distance of where the women were found near the 2100 block of North Mitthoefer Road. What evidence led to the arrest? Police determined Hiner to be a person of interest and executed a search warrant on the apartment. Police found shoes in the apartment that appeared to have dried blood on them as well as jeans soaking in bleach in a bucket in the bathtub. The shoes were sent to a lab for expedited DNA analysis, according to the news release. Preliminary DNA analysis of blood from the shoes matched with blood of both victims, police said. Previously: IMPD investigating 'similarities' after two women found dead near Mitthoefer Road days apart He was on probation at the time the crimes were committed. Detectives learned Hiner was on probation out of La Porte County, Indiana. A probation violation was filed, and a warrant was issued for Hiners arrest. He has remained in custody since then, according to the news release. Contact Jake Allen at jake.allen@indystar.com. Follow him on Twitter @Jake_Allen19. IndyStar reporter Sarah Nelson can be contacted at sarah.nelson@indystar.com. Katie Wiseman is a trending news intern at IndyStar. Contact her at klwiseman@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter @itskatiewiseman. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Mitthoefer Road killings in Indianapolis: What we know about the suspect A Broward County judge dismissed the possession of oxycodone charge against South Florida rapper Kodak Black on Friday, two months after his arrest in December sent him back behind bars. Black, whose legal name is Bill Kapri, was arrested in Plantation in December when police officers found him asleep at the wheel, according to the probable cause affidavit. Then they caught him with white powder in his mouth. The powder tested positive for cocaine, but a lab test later revealed it was oxycodone, for which Black has a prescription, his attorney argued. The State Attorneys Offices arguments do not refute or negate the material fact that the Defendant had an Oxycodone prescription filled by a pharmacy, Judge Barbara Duffy wrote in her order granting the motion to dismiss. Instead, the State merely asserts that the Defendant had the burden of providing additional evidence regarding the prescription drug he was given. The State, however, does not allege or demonstrate that the prescription obtained by the Defendant on July 19, 2022, was not valid or was illegally obtained. The rapper was facing two criminal charges: one count of possession of oxycodone and one count of tampering with physical evidence. Now only the tampering with evidence charge remains. His attorney, Bradford Cohen, hopes to get that dismissed as well. I wasnt surprised, he said of the decision Friday. Whenever a court follows the rule of law, Im never surprised. Im surprised when they dont follow the rule of law, thats when Im surprised. The Broward State Attorneys office declined to comment, referring to their policy on pending cases. Because the tampering with physical evidence charge is still ongoing, our office would not comment, said spokesperson Paula McMahon. Cohens motion to dismiss had argued that Black has a valid prescription for oxycodone, providing a picture of the pill bottle and a list of the rappers prescriptions from his pharmacy. Prosecutors argued that the prescription was written in 2022 and they had no way of knowing Black was still using it. But it was up to the prosecutors to prove that it wasnt valid, Cohen said, not the defense to prove that it was. If you have a prescription from 20 years ago thats still in your cabinet, police cant go into your house and arrest you for illegal possession of anything, he told the Sun Sentinel on Friday. Black remains in a federal detention center in Miami after his bond in a separate case was revoked because of his drug charge in this case. Cohen is hoping a federal judge will dismiss or reinstate bond in that case. This is a developing story, so check back for updates. Click here to have breaking news alerts sent directly to your inbox. The Kyiv City Council has officially transferred land ownership to the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra National Reserve, reported the Deputy Head of the Kyiv City State Administration Petro Olenych on Telegram on Feb. 8. The decision garnered support from 70 out of 82 Kyiv City Council MPs present during the vote. Read also: UNESCO puts five more Ukrainian cultural treasures on its protection list "For more than 30 years, these plots were not legally registered, allowing the Moscow Patriarchate to utilize them," he wrote. "This will no longer be the case. The Lavra will finally be free from the 'Russian world' and will become distinctly Ukrainian." Read also: Russian Orthodox Church forces parishioners to pray to Saint Putin on giant screen - video The state is reviewing the indefinite lease agreement of the Lower Lavra to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate (UOC-MP) due to numerous violations during its transfer, with several occurring on its territory over the past two decades, said the primate of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Kyiv Patriarchate (UOC-KP), Metropolitan Epiphanius, in late January. The Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra National Reserve formally announced the termination of the lease agreement with the UOC-MP on March 29, 2023. 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 At a meeting on 9 February, the Ukrainian government approved the Methodology for the Use of Minority Languages within the framework of the European Commission's recommendations, which are required to begin EU membership negotiations. Source: European Pravda; Office of the Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine Details: The methodology, as explained, establishes uniform conditions and procedures for the use of national minority languages in settlements where they have historically lived or where national minorities account for more than 15% of the population. The document specifies in which areas of public life the national minorities' languages may be used alongside the state language: communication with authorities; public, social, and health services; topographic information; and sign boards for authorities and utility companies. Quote: "The use of a national minority (community) language is allowed by decision of the relevant village, settlement, or city council," according to the deputy prime minister's office. Background: Ukraines Parliament passed the law On National Minorities on 8 December, and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed it the same day. Leaders of the Hungarian communities in Ukraine responded positively to the new law. Romanian Foreign Minister Luminita Odobescu also welcomed the adoption of the law. Last week, after meeting with his Hungarian counterpart, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that Ukraine is committed to finally settling its dispute with Hungary over the rights of national minorities, and a special commission under the auspices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will present a "specific understanding" on this matter within ten days. Support UP or become our patron! Tamela Kerneghan camps with her dog on a sidewalk near Grand Park in the shadow of L.A. City Hall. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) Alleging more than a year of foot-dragging by Los Angeles officials, lawyers for a group of businesses and residents are asking a federal judge to fine the city nearly $6.4 million over its failure to live up to a nearly 2-year-old settlement agreement to clean up homeless camps. The request for sanctions comes amid growing tension between the City Council and Mayor Karen Bass over her signature Inside Safe program, which allocates $250 million for outreach and motel rentals to clean up encampments. Council members have grown concerned that the money going to temporary motel leases does not count toward the city's commitment in the lawsuit to provide beds through 2027. Some council members have also objected to where the cleanups have occurred, suggesting the mayor has favored wealthier Westside and West Valley districts over less affluent areas in northeast Los Angeles and the eastern Valley. Frustration rose to a point last month that Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez and the chief of staff for Councilman Kevin de Leon walked in uninvited to a negotiating session in a judge's chambers to see what was being discussed. The motion, set for a March 7 hearing, alleges that the city repeatedly missed deadlines and negotiated in bad faith over terms of a settlement agreement to shelter at least 60% of people living on the streets in each council district. Bass, who initially withheld comment on the Feb. 7 motion, blasted it in a statement Wednesday, characterizing it as a money-grabbing distraction from her work on homelessness. The City of Los Angeles brought thousands more unhoused Angelenos inside last year than the year before and we will continue that urgent work to save lives no matter what, the statement said. I do not have patience for anyone who stands in the way, and certainly not for those seeking to profit with baseless motions in court. The city attorneys office also assailed the request for sanctions as unprecedented, unbecoming and incorrect in an opposition filed this week. Diverting over $6 million in funds from the Citys homelessness budget would undermine the Citys efforts to provide shelter, intervention and other programs to the most vulnerable in the community," Chief Assistant City Atty. Scott Marcus wrote in the brief. For more than a year, the motion contends, the city stalled, then tried to back out of the district-by-district commitment as Bass pursued a citywide program to clean up encampments, according to the motion filed by lawyers for the L.A. Alliance for Human Rights. "The City obstructed efforts to establish critical encampment milestones and created far fewer beds than it promised to," the motion said. "This was an egregious violation of both the letter and the spirit of the agreement and there must be consequences to ensure that defendants are not emboldened to further ignore their commitments." The city disputed that, saying the settlement agreement includes no timeline for the milestones and that it had set the milestones before the motion for sanctions was filed. The motion also asks U.S. District Judge David O. Carter, who is presiding over the 4-year-old case, to order the city to produce plans within 30 days to clean up what it describes as two "high-acuity areas," Skid Row and avenues 45 and 59 in Highland Park, which it singled out as examples of low-income areas neglected by Bass' citywide approach. Read more: A retired federal judge takes a stroll through Skid Row to prepare for his new assignment Though not large, the two locations in Highland Park "host some of the most dangerous encampments in the city with regular fires (an average of 3 fires per week at Avenue 45), constant drug activity, and major property and violent crime" and "represent the inability and/or unwillingness of the City to direct the same level of encampment reduction energy to this working class neighborhood that it has devoted to the wealthier West Side," the motion said. The city contends the alliance is attempting to rewrite the agreement because nothing in it requires the city to focus on specific locations. The lawsuit, filed in March 2020, named the city and county, alleging that they were both failing in their duty to provide shelter and services for unsheltered people, then estimated to number 26,600 citywide and 44,200 countywide. Those totals have risen to about 32,700 in the city and 55,200 in the county in the most recent count. The county reached a settlement in September committing to provide an additional 3,000 mental health beds as well as paying for services alongside city beds. With Eric Garcetti still in the mayor's office, the city settled much earlier, in June 2022, agreeing to a plan to determine the shelter need within each of the city's 15 council districts to provide beds for at least 60% of its unsheltered population. The motion detailed a tortuous series of meetings and negotiations that eventually led to that plan being approved by the City Council last month, 447 days late. The city initially complied with one requirement, committing to produce 12,915 beds by June 2027, but did not satisfy a second element, the number of encampments it would remove in each council district. According to the chronology in the motion, the new Bass administration initially told the L.A. Alliance it would have service providers in place in each council district and have assessments of each district's needs by Oct. 1, 2023. The city missed the deadline and instead proposed one encampment cleanup goal for the whole city. Bass was pursuing her Inside Safe program, which, to date, has cleared more than 30 encampments and placed nearly 2,000 people into interim or permanent housing, according to her office. In negotiating sessions late last year, the city changed its proposal several times, at one point offering to clear out "a minimum of 12,000 tents, makeshift shelters, cars, vans, and RVs," but later saying it could commit to moving only 5,300 people out of camps if it stuck to the district-by-district plan, according to the motion. De Leon said in a statement that it was "deeply concerning" that city officials "would attempt to renegotiate a settled agreement void of the council's approval." Councilman Bob Blumenfield told The Times he heard rumors early in January that a citywide plan was being pushed and immediately contacted Bass to impress on her his strong opposition to abandoning district goals. "She assured me that would not be," Blumenfield said. On Jan. 6, the city provided what the L.A. Alliance lawyers wanted, a breakdown of 9,800 camp "reductions" broken down by council district and delineated in six-month periods. But the submission had not been shown to the City Council, which had final say over the settlement agreement. That prompted Rodriguez to walk in on the negotiating session. The city administrative office presented the proposal to the council in closed session Jan. 31, and the council approved it, bringing the city into compliance. Attorneys for the L.A. Alliance then filed their motion, saying serious sanctions were necessary. They ask for $100,000 per week for the 447-day period. "The citizens of Los Angeles lost a year of accountability to the Citys noncompliance and obstructive conduct," they said. Blumenfield said he is optimistic that the mismatch between Inside Safe and the L.A. Alliance settlement will be worked out. "We all have the same goals, the council members and the alliance getting people housed and camp resolutions," he said. "Inside Safe is all about reducing encampments." Times staff writer David Zahniser contributed to this report. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. There is nothing funny about Donald Trump and the extreme danger to the country and world he represents. To laugh now is a dangerous distraction and waste of energy in what will be a long battle to save Americas multiracial pluralistic democracy. Humor is, of course, subjective. There is much that one could potentially make fun of about Trump the man. His physical appearance belies his claims to godlike status. His extreme ego is a cover for his equally, if not more, extreme fragility. Trump lacks intellectual curiosity and does not read yet believes himself to be a genius who is an expert on all things. There are many other aspects of Donald Trump that one could reasonably consider to be funny. Trump also possesses great comedic timing, is very entertaining, and in another reality would have been an excellent late-night variety show host. In all, there is something magnetic and compelling about Donald Trump. His detractors are loathe to admit this because they would then have to admit that they too are oddly compelled towards him even as they detest him. Evil can be very charismatic. The laughter and humor, if at all, should stop here. In his role as the leader of a tens of millions strong political cult Trump is now claiming to be a messiah, and type of prophet chosen by god and Jesus Christ to be the countrys first de facto dictator. Public opinion polls show that more than a quarter of Americans actually believe that Trump has been chosen by God to be the leader of the country. Trump and his lawyers are continuing to argue that he is somehow above the law, and while president (and if he returns to power) will have king-like powers to order his enemies murdered or to accept money for political and other nakedly corrupt acts. On Tuesday, a Federal appeals court rejected such claims as a violation of the Constitution and basic principles of democracy and the rule of law. The judges' ruling left no room for evasion or interpretation, using clear and strong language such as: "Former President Trump's alleged efforts to remain in power despite losing the 2020 election were, if proven, an unprecedented assault on the structure of our government". [F]ormer President Trump's stance would collapse our system of separated powers by placing the president beyond the reach of all three branches". "We cannot accept that the office of the presidency places its former occupants above the law for all time thereafter Trump is channeling Hitler and the Nazis with claims about Americas blood being poisoned by non-white human vermin and Democrats and other "traitors" from within." Instead of being repelled by such energy, Republicans and other Trump supporters increasingly embrace such hatred. There is nothing funny about any of this. When and if Trump or his successors take power in 2025 and beyond, the civil and human rights, freedom, dignity, and safety of entire groups of people deemed to be the enemy, not real Americans, disloyal, or otherwise targeted by the Trump regime and the MAGA movement will be imperiled. To be able to dismiss these fears is to enjoy a certain type of privilege where one imagines oneself or their group as immune and safe from the type of neofascist and other authoritarian assaults that Trump and his movement are promising (and have been enacting). Such safety is an illusion. At the New Republic, David Rothkopf explains why Trump and American neofascism are an existential, almost unprecedented threat to the country and its future: For the past nearly 250 years, when the United States faced a grave threat, our people rose up and sacrificed whatever it took to defeat it. From the American Revolution to the Civil War to the menace of the Nazis or Soviet communism, we were willing to do what we had to do to defend what we valued most about this country. Today, as it did once before, in 1861, the greatest peril confronting the country comes from within. Then as now, it was a threat that sought to divide America, and it was a threat founded in racism, contempt for our Constitution, and a twisted sense of what was worth preserving from our past. The new threat, of course, is led by Donald Trump. In recent days, we have watched as the vast majority of leaders of the Republican Party, including many of Trumps former foes, from Marco Rubio to Ted Cruz, have lined up behind the twice-impeached, frequently indicted former president. Nikki Haley can stay in the race as long as she likes, but the primaries are now effectively over. The worst president in our history is, arguably, stronger within the leadership ranks of the Republican Party than he has ever been. He is now the most dangerous presidential candidate in U.S. history. As a consequence, the great question before the rest of us is whether enough of us are ready to do whatever is necessary to defeat this threat as we have all those that have come before. Sadly, there is reason to believe that this time we may not meet the challenge. Right now, Donald Trump is one of two people who could be our next president. The race, at the moment, between him and President Joe Biden, is too close to call. That it seems a choice at all is what should mortify us. It is a sign that many in our society are blind to reality. And it is a sign that the rest of us, who understand both reality and what is at stake, have not yet done our job communicating to one another, to our friends, family, and communities what must be done to defend our country and our system. None of this is funny. In his recent essay Trumps Brownshirts, Robert Reich warns that Trump and his movement are channeling some of the darkest chapters in human history: During the German presidential elections in March and April 1932, Brownshirts assembled Alarmbereitschaften, or emergency squads, to intimidate voters. On the night of the Reichstag election of July 31, 1932, Brownshirts launched a wave of violence across much of northern and eastern Germany with murders and attempted murders of local officials and communist politicians and arson attacks on local Social Democratic headquarters and the offices of liberal newspapers. When five Brownshirts were sentenced to death for the murders, Hitler called the sentences a most outrageous blood verdict and publicly promised the prisoners that from now on, your freedom is a question of honor for all of us, and to fight against the government which made possible such a verdict is our duty. A chilling echo of these words can be found in one of Trumps recent speeches in Iowa, in which he claimed that his supporters had acted peacefully and patriotically on January 6, 2021. Some people call them prisoners, he said of those who were serving sentences for their violence. I call them hostages. Release the J6 hostages, Joe [Biden]. Release them, Joe. You can do it real easy, Joe. As Ive said before, America is not the Weimar Republic on the eve of 1933, and Trump is not Hitler. But it is important to understand the parallels. That Donald Trump still has not been held accountable for encouraging the attack on the U.S. Capitol, or for provoking his followers with his blatant lie that the 2020 election was stolen, continues to galvanize an army of potentially violent Americans. Again, none of this is funny. In a recent essay at the New York Times, author and humorist David Kamp engaged in some critical self-reflection about the wisdom of making fun of Donald Trump in a time of such peril. So you might think Id revel in our current golden age of Trump mockery. When Saturday Night Live returns this week, were likely to see him incarnated by the comedian James Austin Johnson, who uncannily recreates Mr. Trumps fragmentary locutions and deteriorating speaking voice as it whipsaws from a bellow to a gargle to a whisper. But no offense to the talented Mr. Johnson Im done laughing. Weve reached a point where the guffawing has to stop. By now, many of us have had a good chuckle at Mr. Trumps ridiculousness: the talk of injecting bleach into the bloodstream, the hand gestures that make him appear to be playing an accordion. But the stakes are too high to treat him as a figure of fun and I say this as someone whose foundational story as a professional writer involved concocting Trump jokes. We need a moratorium on making fun of Mr. Trump. He continues: For one thing, ridiculing Mr. Trump is no longer an effective tool against him. Like some kind of cyborg insult comic, hes developed a knack for absorbing and redirecting the barbs hurled his way. He internalized and weaponized Spys tactic of using belittling epithets, propagating such nicknames as Crooked Hillary, Sleepy Joe and Cryin Chuck Schumer. He pulled a similar trick with the term fake news, which was popularized by Jon Stewart as a lighthearted description of The Daily Show. In Mr. Trumps vindictive mind, fake news was reprocessed and deployed to mean media outlets and news coverage that he doesnt like. Whats more, in the Spy magazine era, Mr. Trump was just a local nuisance, a braggart presiding over a foundering casino-hotel empire. When he reconstituted himself as an entertainer, starring in The Apprentice, he began to pose a danger of a different magnitude. I realize I run the risk, in making this case, of looking as if Im missing the whole point of political humor in a free country. Isnt laughter what gets us through our darkest hours? Isnt one of the purposes of satire to shine a light on the folly of the wicked and misguided?... The difference is that Chaplin, an Englishman who made his name in America, was operating from a position of moral strength. His adopted homeland was the worlds beacon of democracy, while the guy he was sending up ran a country that had gone terribly wrong. This time, we, the United States, are the country that runs the risk of going terribly wrong. The Hynkel-ing is coming from inside the house. So lets treat this situation as seriously as it warrants. Well, sure in normal times. But not when the foundations of our democracy are under threat from a former president who wants to be a dictator on Day 1. Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course. Kamps essay did not receive as much attention as I would have expected from the the conversation and the 24/7 news machine. In many ways this reaction is to be expected: Kamp told uncomfortable truths that are not easily dismissed. Why do so many people continue to insist on laughing in the face of Trump, the MAGA people, and the larger neofascist movement and the collective danger it represents? People laugh at what they dont understand. People also laugh when they are scared or hysterical. People laugh as a psychological defense mechanism when confronted by a reality that they cannot reconcile and resolve with their expectation of what they heretofore deemed to be normal. People will laugh to keep from crying. There are other people who laugh at and make fun of Trump and the MAGA movement and the right-wing more broadly because it is financially lucrative to do so. For members of the news media, making fun of them also feels good and is much easier than consistently telling the public about how dangerous this moment is, and that Trump, who continues to be tied with Biden in public opinion polls, has a much higher chance of winning the 2024 Election than many people want to admit. Is there any role to be played by laughter and humor in opposing Trump and the larger fascist movement? Of course. Strategic mockery (consistently targeting Trump's weaknesses, vulnerabilities, and perceived strengths as part of a larger plan of mobilizing against him and his movement) by the Lincoln Project and other pro-democracy organizations can potentially be very effective. It is also a reminder that a second Trump regime and a victory by the American fascists is not inevitable or permanent. President Biden and other leading Democrats and national leaders should also mock and make fun of Donald Trump. Given what is known about his personality and mind, Donald Trump in all likelihood becomes extremely unsettled and enraged when he is confronted in that way. But laughter and mockery by themselves, and not in conjunction with the hard work and organizing and other real sacrifices that will be necessary to defeat Trump and his MAGA people and the larger Republican fascist project and movement, is at best empty and at worse enabling such forces in their plan to end American democracy. Ultimately, the best time to laugh will be once the 2024 election is over, and Trump and the larger neofascist movement have been defeated not just on that day, but in the years and then decades ahead. The laughter will have then been earned. And if Trump and his fascist forces and their allies win the 2024 Election, and he becomes Americas first dictator? Laughter will be an essential means for resisting and maintaining hope in the face of hopelessness. Many of those Americans who will be laughing out of terror when Dictator Trump takes power will wish they had not been laughing so much before when there was still a chance to stop him and his successors. To make economic globalization more open, inclusive, balanced, beneficial to all 09:39, February 09, 2024 By Huan Yuping ( People's Daily Some pessimism about economic globalization has emerged in recent years due to rising protectionism, increasing blockages in global industrial and supply chains, and weakness of international trade. This has led some to proclaim the "golden age" of economic globalization is over. While concerns about challenges facing the world economy are understandable, such outright pessimism is unnecessary. Economic globalization remains the trend of the times. Despite many counter currents and dangerous shoals, its overall direction has never changed and will not change. To grasp the development trend of economic globalization, it is important to start from the objective laws of historical development. Historically, economic globalization is an objective requirement of social productive force development and an inevitable result of technological progress, rather than something artificially created by certain people or countries. Technological and industrial revolutions have greatly reduced the costs of global transportation of goods, information dissemination, and human mobility, providing a profound material and technological foundation for economic globalization. The deepening development of economic globalization has provided a powerful impetus for the progress of human society. Statistics show that from 1992 to 2022, global GDP rose from around $25 trillion to around $101 trillion, and per capita GDP increased from $4,659 to $12,647. From 1992 to 2019, the share of global trade in global GDP grew from 40.15 percent to 56.33 percent. The proportion of the global population living in poverty dropped from 36.5 percent to 8.5 percent, and life expectancy increased from 65.6 years to 73.4 years. The setbacks in economic globalization in recent years were mainly due to policy shifts in some countries. International institutions see the rise of protectionism as a serious risk to global economic recovery. The International Monetary Fund warned that if economic fragmentation continues unchecked, it could reduce global GDP by 7 percent - roughly equivalent to the combined size of the French and German economies. Economic globalization is a "double-edged sword." Bridging the equity deficit is an important issue all sides need to face. Problems are not to be feared; the key is finding solutions. To steer economic globalization on a steady course that delivers long-term benefits and better well-being to people of all nations, the international community should join hands in championing an inclusive economic globalization that benefits all. Economic globalization should be beneficial to all, aligning with the universal aspirations of countries around the world, especially developing ones. It should effectively address imbalances in development between and within countries resulting from global resource allocation. Development should be both full and balanced, fostering globalization that enables all countries, particularly developing ones, to accelerate growth. With interdependence prevalent today, nations must develop themselves while also considering how to advance in sync with the world. It is important to make the pie of economic globalization bigger together and share it fairly, so different countries and people of different social groups can all participate in and benefit from socioeconomic progress, achieving mutual benefit, win-win outcomes, and shared prosperity. Economic globalization should be inclusive, supporting countries in pursuing development paths suiting their national conditions, while jointly creating common development for all humanity. All forms of unilateralism and protectionism must be opposed, along with discriminatory and exclusionary standards and rules. Trade and investment liberalization and facilitation should be promoted to maintain stable and unimpeded global industrial and supply chains. All sides should show mutual understanding and accommodation, addressing each other's concerns, in order to resolve structural issues hindering healthy global economic growth. This will sustain the vitality and momentum of the world economy. Looking ahead, economic globalization remains an inevitable path forward and an irreversible trend of the times for human society. The international community should join hands to make economic globalization more open, inclusive, balanced and beneficial to all, injecting inexhaustible momentum into the building of a community with a shared future for mankind. (Web editor: Cai Hairuo, Zhong Wenxing) In July 1936, General Francos coup detat was defeated through a revolutionary uprising of the working class, and the anarchists emerged as the leading force. However, their programme and perspectives proved impotent in the face of events. They betrayed the revolution several times and, partly due to their mistakes, the Spanish proletariat was crushed. Fascism went on to establish a four-decade dictatorship. It is the duty of all thinking anarchists to analyse events in Spain critically and draw all the necessary conclusions. The anarchists were a mass force in Spain in the 1930s: their trade union organisation, the National Confederation of Labour (CNT) and their political wing, the Iberian Anarchist Federation (FAI) had hundreds of thousands of members and played a leading role in the class struggle (an account of their origins, in Spanish, here). The most combative and courageous sectors of the proletariat were to be found in the ranks of the CNT. Unfortunately, though, determination and courage are not enough to ensure victory correct ideas are also necessary, which the anarchists lacked. 1931: the Second Republic On 14 April 1931, municipal elections gave a resounding victory to republican candidates. They took place in a context of intense social effervescence after the demise of the Primo de Rivera military dictatorship. In the aftermath of the election result, King Alfonso XIII fled the country. The monarchy had collaborated closely with the dictatorship in the 1920s and was profoundly discredited. The Second Republic was proclaimed with the connivance of most of the ruling class, which understood the Bourbons had become a liability and that prolonging their rule would spur the masses in a dangerous, revolutionary direction. The Republic was welcomed by the broad masses of the people. But the events of 14 April liquidated the monarchy, while maintaining the social structure of capitalist Spain, including most of the old state apparatus. The basic social and democratic demands of the workers and the poor peasants were incompatible with this social and political system. Even basic democratic transformations, such as the separation of Church and state, the cleansing of reactionaries from the state bureaucracy and the army, and, most importantly, self-determination for Basques and Catalans, and a profound land reform could not be conquered without attacking large private property and the state that protected it. The bourgeois republicans could not carry out these tasks. Only the proletariat would be able to drive forward the democratic revolution, but in the process, would inevitably strike against capitalism and advance in a socialist direction. The Communist Left (Spanish section of the International Left Opposition, led by Trotsky) acknowledged the popularity of the Republic and welcomed its democratic reforms, but pointed out that the states class character had not changed and therefore the hopes of 14 April would be dashed. The revolution, in fact, had only just begun: it could only be completed with the conquest of power by the proletariat. Events proved them right, as in a matter of a few months the Republic frustrated the expectations of the workers and the poor peasantry. The anarchists, however, were at a complete loss during the events of 1931. They became inebriated by the popular enthusiasm for the Republic and greeted it enthusiastically. In their verbose language, the anarchists referred to a new era, an impressive leap of freedom and claimed that many centuries of social and political development have been condensed in the Revolution of April 14. They added the caveat that they had not become republican. But this was, indeed, just a token to assuage their bad faith, rather than an expression of understanding of the events of 1931. Anarchist sympathy for the new regime, as the CNT press organ acknowledged, benefited the petty-bourgeois republicans at the ballot box. The task of the proletarian vanguard is, precisely, to stand above the reformist illusions of the masses and point out the way forward. The anarchists regard the idea of a vanguard as a conspiratorial, bureaucratic tyranny imposed on the working class (although they are also capable of flippant elitism). However, for Marxists the vanguard is simply constituted by those that can see ahead of the rest of the class by developing correct perspectives; to represent the movement of the future in the movement of the present, as Engels put it. This is a role the anarchists clearly did not fulfil in 1931. The class character of the new regime, however, was impressed on the brains of the anarchists through the truncheons of the republican police that cracked down on the CNT-led strikes of the summer of 1931. Later that year, the anarchists veered to the opposite extreme. In 1932-33, they staged a wave of scattered, uncoordinated insurrections that were invariably crushed. These adventurist uprisings were staged by small groups of rebels. Repression decimated the movement. Between April 1931 and April 1932, the CNT lost almost half of its membership in its Catalan stronghold and underwent a crippling split, as the treintista faction defected. The treintistas, led by moderate anarchists such as Angel Pestana and Joan Peiro, sought to gradually expand the influence of the CNT trade unions by respecting republican legality and abandoning adventurist tactics. After the defection of the treintistas, the radical, sectarian wing of the CNT now predominated. Having burned its fingers with the Republic, it now damned all forms of government and declared itself indifferent to official party politics. Reflecting on the failure of the Republic, the FAI press organ commented in 1933: All governments without exception are equally bad [] and it is our mission to destroy them. This facilitated the victory of the right wing in the elections of November 1933, including the spectacular rise of the far-right CEDA. There was growing disillusionment towards the Republic on the part of workers and peasants, so the anarchist swing to the left in 1932-33 reflected a more general mood. But anarchists gave this mood a reckless, adventurist expression. Indeed, they went from illusions in bourgeois republicanism straight into the sudden proclamation of Libertarian Communism. The Worker Alliances and the Popular Front Anarchist extremism in 1932-33 not only weakened the CNT, but also undermined the Spanish labour movement as a whole. The CNT was a mass force, but it was not hegemonic, not even in its Catalan and Andalusian strongholds. It could not lead the revolution without a correct approach to the other proletarian organisations. Hundreds of thousands of workers belonged to the Socialist Party (PSOE), its youth front (JJSS), and its trade union platform (UGT). While traditionally led by reformists, part of the socialist movement was veering leftwards in the fraught context of 1930s Spain. There were also three small, though fast-growing, communist organisations (the Stalinist party PCE, the Trotskyist Communist Left, and the eclectic Worker-Peasant Bloc, BOC). In addition to the UGT, the petty-bourgeois republicans also had support among sectors of the left-leaning middle class, the peasantry, and even of the working class, and capitalised on the nationalist sentiments of the Catalan masses. The Alliances were set up by small communist groups such as the Worker-Peasant Bloc, but they came to attract the growing left-wing faction of the Socialist Party, whose leader, Largo Caballero, adopted a revolutionary rhetoric in these months / Image: public domain Faced with the advance of reaction, working-class unity became necessary. This was expressed in the Worker Alliances that cropped up in 1934. While initially established and steered by the party leaderships, they reflected the instinctive quest for unity of the rank-and-file and had the potential to become genuine bodies of workers power akin to the Soviets in the Russian revolution. The Alliances acquired momentum in mid-1934 as the ultra-reactionary CEDA was poised to enter Lerrouxs right-wing coalition government. The Alliances were set up by small communist groups such as the Worker-Peasant Bloc, but they came to attract the growing left-wing faction of the Socialist Party, whose leader, Largo Caballero, adopted a revolutionary rhetoric in these months. The Alliances threatened to stage an insurrectionary general strike. This threat materialised in early October 1934. The Spanish workers feared a repetition of what had happened in Germany, Austria and in Italy, where fascists had been allowed to come to power without any serious resistance and then proceeded to crush the workers organisations. With the exception of Asturias, the uprising of October 1934 was promptly smashed across the country, including in the two biggest cities, Madrid and Barcelona. Different reasons explain this defeat. In Madrid, the socialists envisaged the insurrection as a narrowly military and conspiratorial task, disregarding its political dimension. In Barcelona, the initiative was in the hands of the petty-bourgeois nationalists, who were content with a symbolic charade, but were in no mood to fight the state in earnest. However, the key explanation for the defeat was arguably the sectarian attitude of the anarchists. Disenchanted with the socialists and the left-leaning Catalan nationalists after their dalliance with the Republic in 1931, anarchists adopted a sectarian position and refused to cooperate with political parties. Certainly, the socialists and the left republican politicians behaved treacherously in the past. They had repressed the CNT while in power in 1931-33. But anarchists forgot the fact that these leaders continued to enjoy mass support. Moreover, the Socialist Party was not monolithic. Its radical faction around Largo Caballero, which represented a large section of the working class, was breaking with bourgeois parliamentarism and adopting the language of revolution. This firstly meant that the development of the class struggle required a degree of practical cooperation. Secondly, the only way for the CNT to win over honest socialist workers was precisely through joint struggle. The general strike of October 1934 offered an excellent occasion for this. Sectarian seclusion, in fact, drove socialist and republican workers away from the CNT and strengthened the hand of the reformist leaders. Only in Asturias did the regional CNT organisation adopt a different stance. It involved itself in the Worker Alliance and ensured the necessary unity for victory. The Asturian labour movement conquered power, held it for two weeks and established a democratic workers regime. Their isolation, however, led to their bloody defeat. Elsewhere in Spain, the anarchists sabotaged the insurrection. The Catalan CNT called on strikers to return to work from a radio station controlled by the Spanish army. They later explained the defeat because the most important and combative force in Catalonia [i.e., the CNT] did not enter the fray. Fierce repression ensued. In mid-1935, 40,000 workers were jailed across Spain, including numerous anarchists. Clearly, not all forms of government are equally bad. Hungover from its sectarian excesses, in the winter of 1935-36 the CNT veered towards the right, towards a new entente with the petty-bourgeois republicans. A Popular Front was set up in January 1936. Unlike the Worker Alliances of 1934, this was not a united front of workers organisations for practical struggle, but an electoral coalition that included liberals and centre-left republicans. Substantial worker and peasant demands were eschewed in the name of anti-fascist unity. The Popular Front therefore had a mildly reformist programme that focused on restoring civil rights. The CNT, which had denounced the Worker Alliances, now tacitly called on its followers to vote for the Popular Front. Generally, they proved more amicable towards the petty-bourgeois republicans than to the socialists or the communists. This is simply because the latter challenged the CNTs hegemony over the labour movement, while the republicans were content with a tacit division of labour with the anarchists: they would dominate the ballot box and the CNT the trade unions. Foresight and astonishment The CNT and FAI zigzagged from a pro-republican position in 1931, to aggressive sectarianism and Blanquism in 1932-35, to a new honeymoon with the republicans in 1936. The explanation for these twists and turns is the impressionism of the anarchists, which in turn is rooted in their lack of perspectives and of an understanding of the class struggle. They responded empirically to events, through constant improvisation, and compensated for their mistakes by swinging in the opposite direction. Anarchists lack of perspectives has a deeper philosophical meaning. Anarchism is an idealist doctrine, despite the materialist jargon of its theoreticians. They start off with a series of unnegotiable, ahistorical principles: against all authority and tyranny, against all forms of government, against political parties, against centralisation, against all vanguards, for spontaneity, for direct action, for federalism, for absolute freedom, for absolute equality. They try to shoehorn these principles into the class struggle. But life does not yield to the ultimatums of anarchist pamphleteers. This is precisely what idealism means: to impose ones principles on reality; rather than to derive ones politics from life itself, by unlocking its contradictions and processes through scientific analysis, which is what Marxist materialism does. Marxism is the theory of foresight, anarchism is the theory of astonishment, as the events of 1931-36 reveal. A testament to the power of Marxist theory is the fact that Spanish communists foresaw the betrayals of the anarchists years before they took place. In 1928, Spanish Marxist Joaquin Maurin, engaged in a polemic with CNT leader Joan Peiro, observed: Peiro himself tells us: And Spanish anarchism has done even more. Aware that the revolutionary strength of the country is in its hands, having a clear notion that the solutions [to the countrys problems] could not be anarchist in any way, anarchism put its strength at the service of the leftist sectors [i.e., the petty bourgeois republicans]. What is this if not the full confession of anarchist impotence? So that the moment revolutionary power is at hand, it is passed on to the bourgeois parties of the left! Never has an anarchist uttered a more definitive, a more categorical condemnation of his doctrine. What is being said here is that anarchism is not revolutionary. If, when the hour of the revolution arrives, anarchism has to hand over its armies to the bourgeois leaders, it means it is completely impotent... Anarchists condemn politics. They don't want to know anything about it. But one day it will be necessary to put all the meat on the grill, the future of the labour movement will be put at stake, and then the anarchists, anti political as they are, will offer themselves body and soul to the bourgeois left. (in LOpinio, 7/7/1928) That is exactly what happened in 1936, when push came to shove. July 1936 and the question of power The Popular Front was a reformist outfit. After its victory, however, workers struggles reached unprecedented intensity. This convinced the ruling class that the Republic could not contain the workers and provided decisive impetus to the development of a fascist movement in Spain. On 18 July 1936, right-wing generals led by Franco, Mola, and Sanjurjo staged a coup detat that was stopped in most of the country by a revolutionary working-class uprising. This rebellion was only semi-spontaneous. The CNT and other workers organisations had prepared to resist a potential putsch. The workers response to the coup was so decisive that it dragged along broad sectors of the peasantry, the middle classes, and even parts of the soldiery and the police. The struggle against the fascists was not a simple attempt to defend constitutional rule, but had a revolutionary tenor. Workers fought the coup not to save the discredited Second Republic, but to build a new world. Indeed, 18-19 July marked the beginning of the greatest revolutionary experience in Europe since 1917. Workers armed themselves and established militias. They defeated the bourgeois army. They formed barricade committees and patrols to control their neighbourhoods. They expropriated factories and established workers control over production and distribution. In the countryside, the landless peasantry took over the estates and set up collectives. The Popular Front was a reformist outfit / Image: kitchener.lord, Flickr The bourgeois Second Republic was in a state of absolute disarray, deprived of its monopoly on violence. It was suspended in mid-air. This went beyond dual power: workers power was implicit in the situation, especially in Barcelona. The task of the revolution was simply to formalise this state of affairs, removing the remnants of the old state apparatus and centralising and institutionalising the committees and militias into a new authority. This new power would wage revolutionary war against Franco, whose coup detat had triumphed in western Spain. Indeed, revolutionary war based on workers power was the only effective way to combat fascism, enthusing the oppressed and the exploited and taking advantage of the class contradictions in the Francoist camp. Workers power in Catalonia would have spread to other anti-fascist strongholds such as Madrid and Asturias, galvanising not only the anarchists but also the left-wing tendencies in the socialist movement. There was a serious obstacle to this, however: anarchist leadership over the revolution. The CNT and the FAI led the struggle against the coup detat in many localities. They emerged from the fighting as the masters of the situation, especially in Catalonia. Catalan president Lluis Companys himself called the CNT leaders into his office and offered them power. He reportedly told them: Today you are the masters of the city and of Catalonia You have conquered everything and everything is in your power. If you do not need me or want me as President of Catalonia I shall become just another soldier in the struggle against fascism. A plenary meeting of the Catalan CNT discussed the question of power on 21 July. Incidentally, the responsibility that befell the delegates at the assembly reveals the critical importance of leadership during revolutionary events, which anarchists deny. Minutes of the meeting were not kept, but accounts by participants allow us to reconstruct the debate. Hawkish anarchist Juan Garcia Oliver and a small group of followers called for the imposition of an anarchist dictatorship. The majority of the organisation, however, voted for collaboration with the leftovers of the republican state, which they considered to be impotent and largely irrelevant. They naturally justified this decision on the basis of anarchist anti-statism. What a contradiction!, recalled a participant in the assembly, Libertarian communism could not be imposed! Dictatorship was the antithesis of libertarianism! They never considered that a revolutionary government could be based on workers democracy, that the multiple organs of power created in July 1936 (barricade committees, militias, control patrols, factory councils, peasant collectives, etc.) could be given a centralised expression that would reflect the diversity of working-class political tendencies, but where the CNT would probably be the dominant force. This government would be dictatorial against the ruling class and the counterrevolution, but would be based on the broad masses of the people; it would be a proletarian democracy. This is what the Bolsheviks did in October 1917: establish a government based on the soviets the organs of workers power. They did not set about banning other left-wing parties (this happened later in the heat of civil war, when these parties took up arms against the Soviet Republic). On the contrary, they formed a coalition with the Left Social Revolutionaries, which only broke down after the treaty of Brest-Litovsk, that is, under extreme external pressure. But the leaders of the Spanish anarchists of 1936 (for the CNT and the FAI had leaders, despite all protestations to the contrary) had such a simplistic understanding of power that this possibility never crossed their minds. The CNT and the FAI felt confident with the decision to collaborate with the Republic because, they reasoned, the state was very weak in July 1936, and they were strong. But this situation could not last. A revolution and civil war needs centralised authority to reorganise production and, most importantly, to combat reaction. The various committees and militias of the summer of 1936 were not up to this task, precisely because they were too scattered and lacked unified coordination. This raised countless military and economic problems. In the heat of events, some anarchists understood this. In the words of Madrid anarchist Eduardo de Guzman: To make a revolution, power must be seized. If the CNT had done so in Catalonia, it would have helped, not hindered, our minority position in Madrid. But they believed it was sufficient to have taken the streets, to have seized arms. They completely overlooked the importance of the state apparatus, which, with or without arms, retains a very great weight. In order to appease the revolutionary masses, Companys set up a Central Committee of Anti-Fascist Militias, but this was a short-lived institution that was scrapped in September 1936, when the Republic had recovered strength.The Central Committee of Anti-Fascist Militias had an anarcho-syndicalist majority, but all Republican political forces were present in it, not just working-class representatives. Rather than replacing the bourgeois Catalan government, the Committee stood next to it, in an uneasy power-sharing agreement. That could not last. A situation of dual power can never be prolonged in time. It has to be resolved either in favour of the workers or of the ruling class. Step by step, in the period from 19 July 1936, when workers had practically all power, until May 1937, the bourgeois state was rebuilt and all elements of workers' power destroyed. The Decree for the Militarisation of the Militias, 28 October, was a major turning point in the resurrection of the bourgeois republican state. Under the argument of fighting disorganisation and of centralising all war efforts, in reality the Decree brought the militias (under the control of the workers' and revolutionary organisations) under the discipline of the Republica (capitalist) state. The majority of the anarchist leaders accepted the argument, unable to offer an alternative. But there was an alternative, that of the centralisation of the militias under the control of the working-class organisations through committees of elected delegates. Rather than submit to a centralised capitalist state, the alternative was to create a centralised workers state. Anarchist leader Durruti opposed the militarisation decree head on. 1 On November, the War Committee of his Column at the Aragon front issued the following statement to the Generalitat government: This Column, formed spontaneously in the heat of that protest in the streets of Barcelona and subsequently swollen by all those who have felt themselves united with our ideal, has unity as a whole and aims, and its individuals are disciplined in everything that tends to achieve its objective of defeating fascism. [...] The militiamen of this Column have confidence in themselves and in those of us who lead it, by their express delegation, without reserve. [...] For all the above reasons, this Committee, echoing the clamour of protest raised in the Column against the above-mentioned Decree, is compelled not to admit it. The militarisation decree, as well as putting the militias under the authority of the Republican government, reintroduced grades in the Army and the Military Discipline Code, as well as starting the process of removing militia women from front-line fighting. The autumn and winter of 1936-37 saw the rapid reconstruction of republican legality and, most importantly, of the old states repressive institutions. In effect, this was a democratic counterrevolution within the anti-fascist camp. Faced with the metastasis of the Republic, the anarchists decided to enter government, first in Catalonia in September, and then, on 4 November, they took four portfolios in the Largo Caballero cabinet. Yet rather than revert the balance of forces to July conditions, they covered the left flank of the bourgeois Republic and assisted its reconstruction as a capitalist state apparatus. In their press organ, they offered the following justification for their entry into government: The entry of the CNT into the central government is one of the most important events in the history of our country. The CNT has always been, by principle and conviction, anti-state and an enemy of every form of government. But circumstances, often superior to human will although shaped by it, have transformed the nature of the Spanish government and state. [...] The government has ceased to be a force of oppression against the working class, just as the state is no longer the entity that divides society into classes. Both will stop oppressing the people all the more with the inclusion of the CNT among their organs. As observed by historian Pierre Broue, the Anarchist leaders adopted the language of the most reformist Social Democrats (and not only the language, in fact). Again, from a position of opposing the taking of power by the working class on the basis of anti-political prejudices, now the anarchist leaders were justifying their entry into a capitalist government by arguing that the state had lost its class character! The anarchist leaders not only revealed their bankruptcy as a revolutionary force: they also became active agents of class collaboration. Propelled to power by a proletarian revolution, they refused to take it, and consequently left a vacuum that was inevitably filled by the representatives of other classes, namely the petty bourgeoisie represented by the republican parties and supported by their Stalinist and Social Democratic allies. In consonance with their decision to leave the Republic in place, the anarchists joined the government and helped it recover its tarnished authority before the revolutionary masses. By December 1936, the Stalinists felt strong enough (backed by Soviet military aid to the Republic, following their revisionist two-stage theory) to force the expulsion of the POUM from the Catalan Generalitat. Joan Comorera, the leader of the recently formed Stalinist PSUC (the Catalan branch of the PCE), became the Councillor for Provisioning and in his capacity started an assault against the collectivitzacions, the expression of workers control in the factories. The CNT press was being subjected to censorship by the very government they were a part of. The working class, however, did not accept this counterrevolution passively. They were growing increasingly uneasy as they saw their own power, established with blood on 19 July, slipping from their hands. Several anarcho-syndicalist organisations, under pressure from their ranks, were being won over to an oppositionist position. This included the Libertarian Youth (JJLL), the Barcelona local organisation of the FAI as well as the newly created Amigos de Durruti (Durruti Friends). After various clashes and protests, matters came to a head in Barcelona in early May 1937. The attempt by the republican police to seize the CNT-controlled telephone exchange on 3 May sparked a spontaneous working-class insurrection. On 4 May, the rebels held nine-tenths of the city. However, this uprising had no leadership. Anarchist and Marxist dissident groups were too small to provide the necessary guidance. Our blood boiled, recalled CNT textile worker Josep Costa. We had Barcelona surrounded; we only needed the word and we would have cleaned out the communist [i.e., Stalinist] plotters and their dispossessed, intriguing petty-bourgeois lackeys who were sabotaging the revolution. The CNT called on workers to abandon the barricades. The CNT ministers travelled to Barcelona to try to appease the rebels. Anarchist Minister of Justice Garcia Oliver begged: we must put an end to this fratricidal struggle. [] The government will take the necessary steps. They reached a pact with their other government allies to neutralise the uprising. Naturally, once the insurgents were disarmed the Republic went on to betray all its promises. An army of 5,000 Assault Guards was deployed in Barcelona. The dissident communists of the POUM were banned after these events and their leader, Andreu Nin, was kidnapped, tortured, and executed. The jails of Barcelona were full to the brim with revolutionaries. The CNT ministers had no alternative but to resign. The cabinet was reorganised under right-wing socialist Juan Negrin, who set about to fight the Civil War on the basis of bourgeois democracy, abandoning Largo Caballeros leftist jargon and cracking down on the remaining organs of workers power and to restore private property. The CNT and the FAI were now ostracised from the government, but they continued to collaborate with the Republic until the bitter end. In April 1938, the CNT-FAI reentered government, taking a portfolio in Juan Negrin's cabinet. Both organisations were bureaucratised and an internal anarchist dictatorship was established by its debased leadership. In the words of historian Chris Ealham, espousing a discourse of control from above and responsibility, the [CNT/FAI] leadership relied on bureaucratic censure to intimidate oppositionists. Dissident anarchists were purged. The CNT crowned its dishonour by assisting General Casados defeatist coup detat in March 1939, which yielded the sizable territory that was still under republican control (spanning from Madrid to Valencia and Almeria) to the fascists without a fight, putting an end to the Civil War and inaugurating almost four decades of dictatorial rule. Durruti In the ranks of the CNT were some of the most courageous fighters of the Spanish and Catalan working class. In fact, many of its leaders were also committed revolutionaries with a heroic past. Juan Garcia Oliver, for instance, who became Minister of Justice in Largo Caballeros government and helped appease the insurrection in May 1937, had been an important trade union organiser, an uncompromising enemy of reformism, and an anarchist gunman who was feared and persecuted by the authorities and the rich. In 1932-34, he became the foremost representative of the insurrectionary, anti-republican strand of anarchism. He helped prepare the resistance to Francos imminent coup in early July 1936. His reformist evolution in 1936-37 flowed not from personal insincerity, but from the mistaken anarchist politics of the CNT and the FAI leaders. His moral degeneration was a consequence of his political bankruptcy, and not the other way around. Durruti had drawn advanced conclusions in the direction of the need for a proletarian dictatorship / Image: public domain However, the CNT also produced leaders that resisted the reformist drift of the movement. As Trotsky said, there were in fact only two camps in anti-fascist Spain in 1936: the Menshevik and the Bolshevik. Among the latter, the most important figure was undoubtedly Buenaventura Durruti. A migrant from Leon, he had also cut his teeth in the 1920s as a militant trade unionist in Barcelona and as a roving gunman in Spain and in exile in Europe and the Americas. He was a close collaborator of Oliver and a guiding figure of the Nosotros group. Unlike Oliver, however, upon the outbreak of revolution in July 1936, he steered clear of the political gamesmanship in Barcelona. Instead, he organised worker militias and thrust himself into the anti-fascist struggle in Aragon, waging revolutionary war against the fascists. His Durruti Column was renowned for its discipline and high morale, based not on compulsion but on conscious political commitment. Durruti was never a theoretician but rather a man of action. Yet he was closely in contact with the proletarian masses, reflecting and articulating their instincts and thoughts. The deterioration of the front near Madrid in the autumn of 1936 drove the Durruti Column southwards. During a stopover in Barcelona on the night of 4 November, the day when the anarcho-ministers (as they became known) had joined the Republican government in Madrid, he addressed the working class masses through a radio speech. In it he railed against the privileges of the bureaucrats and politicians, demanded an economic dictatorship at the rear, so that all resources be redirected to the front and openly opposed the militarisation decree: The war we are waging at present serves to crush the enemy at the front, but is that the only enemy? No. The enemy is also the one who opposes the revolutionary gains and who is in our midst, and whom we shall also crush. Durruti, on the basis of his own experience had drawn advanced conclusions in the direction of the need for a proletarian dictatorship. The speech was censored and watered down by the republican press and even by the anarchist newspapers. In November, he and his men fought heroically in the battle for Madrid, which was waged with revolutionary methods. The fascists were stopped at the gates of the city, revealing, as during the victories in July, the close connection between anti-fascist war and revolution. Unfortunately, Durruti was killed in the outskirts of Madrid on 20 November in mysterious circumstances (probably by friendly fire). We can only speculate about what position Durruti might have taken had he lived longer, but he would not have taken lightly the CNTs reformist degeneration. Following Durrutis example, dissident elements of the CNT formed the Friends of Durruti group in March 1937. They sought to combat the CNTs adaptation to the bourgeois Republic. The war and the Revolution are two aspects which cannot be divorced. In any case, we cannot accept that the Revolution should be put off until the end of the military conflict, they stated. Instead of class collaboration with the bourgeois Republic, they called for the creation of a revolutionary junta of CNT and UGT unions, that is, of a workers government. This position was broadly correct but it was a radical disavowal of anarchist ideology and an implicit recognition of the correctness of Marxism. Although the group expanded rapidly, it was too small and inexperienced to play a decisive role in the events of May 1937, after which it was repressed and scattered. Durruti helped liberate eastern Aragon in the summer of 1936 through revolutionary war. The militias promoted the expropriation of the landlords and collectivisation in the liberated areas. In October, Durruti helped establish the Defence Council of Aragon, which, in essence, was a revolutionary government of workers, poor peasants, and militiamen. Durruti wanted to replicate this experience across antifascist Spain, with a National Defence Council. The anarchists reject the term state, but the Aragon Council exercised a centralised monopoly of violence: it repressed class enemies, coordinated and defended the collectivised economy, led the war effort, and took major decisions. What is this, if not a state, albeit one that serves not the rich and the powerful but the poor and oppressed? The Councils charter set out its tasks: The Council takes charge of all political, economic, and social development in Aragon. It comprises departments of Justice, Public Works, Industry and Commerce, Agriculture, Information and Propaganda, Transport and Communications, Public Order, Healthcare, Education, and Supplies. All Departments will elaborate a plan, that will be studied and approved by its constituent organs, but, once approved, it will be fully and comprehensively carried out. All localities will focus on carrying out the economic and social plan. The Council faced constant harassment by the Republic, including the boycott of the war effort on the Aragon front. While the Council was an embryo of a workers state, it operated in an underpopulated and remote rural region that was also an active theatre of operations in the Civil War. Without spreading to the urban and industrial heartlands of antifascist Spain, starting with Barcelona, the Council was doomed. After the May 1937 events, it was repressed and dissolved by Enrique Listers Stalinist army. The Stalinist bogeyman Anarchists today extol the CNT and the FAI of the 1930s, disregarding or ignoring the treacherous aspects of their policy. A more critical minority of anarchists acknowledges the betrayal of the CNT leaders but sees this as a series of fateful mistakes that were the consequence of difficult internal and external circumstances. Spanish anarchist leaders at the time also pointed to extraordinary circumstances to justify their betrayals. What were those extraordinary circumstances? Revolution and civil war. But what is a revolutionary ideology worth if it proves impotent when confronted with its raison detre, with revolution? As Trotsky said, anarchism is like an umbrella full of holes: perfectly useless when you need it most. It is, in fact, an ideology for propaganda in times of peace, but it comes crashing down under the pressure of events in times of revolution. As anarchist dissident and Friends of Durruti founder Jaime Balius noted in 1937, the CNT lacked a revolutionary theory. We did not have a correct programme. We didn't know where we were going. We had a lot of empty rhetoric but, in short, we did not know what to do with those enormous masses of workers [] and not knowing what to do, we handed over the revolution on a plate to the bourgeoisie. A lot of ink (too much) had been spilled working out the principles of the movement in the previous decades. The problem, however, was not insufficient anarchist theoretical preparation. The ideas themselves were wrong. Critical anarchists acknowledge that the CNT committed grave mistakes in the Spanish Civil War. However, they usually retort that Marxists have also betrayed the revolution in the past and point to the Stalinist degeneration of the Soviet Union. This whataboutism deserves closer attention. Stalinism does not deny the validity of Marxism, but, on the contrary, is a negative confirmation of historical materialism. Marxism affirms that the state is an outgrowth of class contradictions, which in turn are rooted in poverty, in low productivity, in the struggle for a limited material surplus. The state lords over society as a manager of scarcity and an arbiter of inequality, blunting the sharp edges of social contradictions in the interest of the ruling class, creaming off part of the social wealth in the process. The Stalinist bureaucracy went on to negate Lenins revolutionary and internationalist programme / Image: public domain The ultimate material cause of Stalinism was the misery of Russia, a backward, peasant country ravaged by seven years of international and civil war, harassed and blockaded by the imperialists. Indeed, the brutality of the Russian Civil War and the harsh repression exercised by the Bolsheviks was shaped by the countrys backwardness, isolation, and its imperialist encirclement. These conditions gave a mighty stimulus to the bureaucratic tendencies in the Soviet state, which usurped power from an exhausted and demoralised working class. The Stalinist bureaucracy went on to negate Lenins revolutionary and internationalist programme and, in 1937, physically liquidated the old Bolshevik Party. The rise of the bureaucracy, however, was not mechanical. It was the consequence of a decade of political struggles within the Russian Communist Party, shaped in turn by the defeat of the world revolution and the growing isolation of the Russian Revolution. In short, the only coherent materialist explanation for Stalinism is the Marxist one. Indeed, the theoretical possibility for the degeneration of the Russian Revolution was already acknowledged by the Russian Marxists before they conquered power. In fact, as early as 1845 Marx and Engels already warned about the possibility of the degeneration of revolution in conditions of misery and backwardness: [The] development of productive forces [...] is an absolutely necessary practical premise because without it want is merely made general, and with destitution the struggle for necessities and all the old filthy business would necessarily be reproduced. The victory of socialism in Russia was only possible if the revolution spread westwards, to more advanced, industrial countries, which would have helped elevate the productivity of the Russian economy and provided political stimulus for worker democracy. Stalinism represented a negation of the Bolshevik programme albeit one that was recognised by Marxism and combated by the Bolsheviks for over a decade. The betrayal of the Spanish CNT, on the contrary, was not foreseen by the anarchists and was, in fact, in absolute harmony with their theory. Anti-statism and anti-authoritarianism, the pith of anarchist ideology, drove the CNT to reject power in July 1936. The petty-bourgeois republicans and the Stalinists stepped in to fill the gap. Anarchist participation in government in November flowed from this initial mistake. Today, the four anarchist ministers continue to generate controversy among anarchists. But, in fact, CNT involvement in government was ultimately inconsequential and did not change the counterrevolutionary course of events, which was set by their initial capitulation in July. Had they not entered government, they would simply have been mauled earlier and more aggressively. The only way counterrevolution could have been stopped would have been by a clear policy to coordinate all the existing bodies of workers power (militias, control patrols, defence committees, distribution committees, etc.) into a nation-wide workers state on the basis of elected representatives. That is, the establishment of workers power. That was of course anathema to most anarchist leaders, both those who joined the government and those who opposed the decision. Anarchists today also retort that the dissident communists of the POUM, uncontaminated by Stalinism, also betrayed the revolution, joining the Catalan government in September 1936. However, the POUMs mistake lay precisely in their abandonment of the Bolshevik line they had previously defended. In other words, their bankruptcy flowed from a rejection of their traditional programme and methods rather than from their implementation. Indeed, the policy of the POUM during the Civil War was to passively lobby the CNT and urge it to seize power. Their mistake, in essence, lay in having trusted the anarchist leaders. The controversy between Marxists and anarchists is not only based on differences in theory. History itself has put both doctrines to test. We must study past events critically and honestly and draw all the necessary conclusions for the class battles that are being prepared. An analysis of events in Spain in the 1930s reveals in practice the bankruptcy of anarchism as a revolutionary ideology. Only Marxism provides a reliable compass that can guide the working class to victory. A divisive political mailer criticizing some Texas House Republicans over their support for honorary recognitions of the state's Muslim community has drawn both condemnation from lawmakers and calls for unity and vigilance amid the extremist rhetoric. The anti-Muslim mailers, targeting dozens of Republican incumbents seeking reelection and drawing rebukes from both sides of the political aisle, ask voters to elect GOP challengers during the March 5 primary after lawmakers took ceremonial votes during last year's legislative session that celebrated Muslim holidays in the Capitol, such as Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. The political advertisements, which warn against the introduction of "Sharia law in Texas," referring to religious laws derived from Islamic scriptures, have been chastised as an affront to religious freedom and painted as a disingenuous effort to propagate Islamophobia. "Showing respect to other religions, this is what American value is, right?" said Rep. Suleman Lalani, D-Sugar Land. "Islamophobia or hateful speech will not win over Texas." Lalani and Rep. Salman Bhojani, D-Euless, were elected to the Texas House in 2022 as its first Muslim members. "These are the things that they're doing to try to divide," Lalani said. "Even though they are trying to attack their own colleagues in the GOP, I think this is the attack on us and hate towards the Muslims that they're showing." Lalani and Bhojani, with broad bipartisan approval in the lower chamber, passed resolutions last year to host the annual Texas Muslim Capitol Day and celebrate Ramadan, a holiday during which "Muslims affirm their commitment to working toward the collective good of society and the well-being of people from all walks of life," stated the resolution. More: How UT alum helped save a Palestinian American who was stabbed near campus Additionally, members from both parties participated in the Capitol's first Iftar, the fast-breaking evening meal shared over the course of Ramadan the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, which is dedicated to fasting, prayer and reflection. Observers fast from sunrise to sunset. Lalani expressed gratitude for the experience, which was marked by lawmakers of varying religious and political backgrounds coming together to reflect on their similarities. "That's where the personal touch and friendship has come along," Lalani said. "And I was very happy that I had the trust of our colleagues, and they supported me in doing various resolutions." The political mailer, however, sent by the Texas Family Project, a conservative political organization, highlighted the event and subsequent recognitions as an effort by House Speaker Dade Phelan, R-Beaumont, to "earn the support of Muslim lawmakers." "Its not what you voted for. Its not what you wanted," reads a description of the anti-Muslim mailing campaign on the project's website. "Unfortunately, it is what Phelan and his allies did." Largely identical, other than identifying different GOP incumbents, the mailers have gone out to voters in Republican-held districts across Texas in recent weeks, focusing on the legislative process to pass the resolutions steps that are typical to advance congratulatory measures for sports teams, communities, holidays and individuals. These hateful mailers represent the increasingly reckless turn our political discourse is taking at the hands of dark money groups and the bigotry they espouse," Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan said. Brady Gray, who leads Texas Family Project, has been with the organization since last June after leaving his position as chief executive officer of Pale Horse strategies, a conservative consulting firm led by Jonathan Stickland, a former state representative who was widely criticized last year after hosting an hourslong meeting with an avowed white supremacist. Gray did not respond to an American-Statesman request for comment. Phelan, in a statement to the Statesman, said the mailers are based on "faux outrage" and meant to weaponize prejudice. These hateful mailers represent the increasingly reckless turn our political discourse is taking at the hands of dark money groups and the bigotry they espouse," Phelan said. "The members being targeted with these deceitful mailers have strong, proven conservative records, so with nothing of substance to attack them on, these groups have resorted to fabricating outrageous lies." Rep. Ellen Troxclair, R-Lakeway, who has been targeted by the anti-Muslim mailers, called them a "deceitful" attempt to mislead Republican voters. Similarly, Rep. Ellen Troxclair, R-Lakeway, who has been targeted by the mailers, called them a "deceitful" attempt to mislead Republican voters and deflect attention from conservative policies lawmakers passed last year. "Its going to backfire, because Hill Country residents wont fall for it," Troxclair said in a statement. "Voters want leaders who are principled and honest, not people who will lie and cheat in their desperation for office." With voters receiving a version of the mailer in her North Texas district, Rep. Kronda Thimesch, R-Lewisville, said the advertising campaign is a degradation of respect for religious freedoms in favor of expanding the influence of dark money in politics. The mailer sent to my district saddens me that some members of my own Republican Party have strayed so far that they no longer respect religious freedoms the very foundation of our country," Thimesch said. "The holiday resolutions presented on the House floor were recognizing fellow Americans and many hard-working residents of our community." Rep. Kronda Thimesch, R-Lewisville, said the anti-Muslim advertising campaign is a degradation of respect for religious freedoms in favor of expanding the influence of dark money in politics. For Bhojani, who contributed his family's Quran to be the first Islamic religious text to be housed alongside the Bible in the Capitol chapel, addressing the escalation in both violence and rhetoric against the Muslims in Texas cannot be ignored or delayed. To be most effective, Bhojani said, there should be a focus on positivity and rallying around peoples' similarities in an effort to be inclusive and understanding. "I think the state of Texas is all about love and compassion and, you know, all the interfaith dialogue that we have in this state, and that's what I try to promote in the Texas Legislature as well," Bhojani said. For example, when his Quran was briefly stolen from the chapel after being displayed last year, Bhojani decided not to press charges and instead spoke with the suspect about the connections and similarities between the teachings of Jesus Christ and the Quran. Bhojani conceded, though, that it's difficult to remain hopeful and positive in the face of violence against Muslims, referencing a stabbing Sunday in Austin that law enforcement has called "bias-motivated." Zacharia Doar, a 23-year-old Palestinian American from the Dallas area, was stabbed after attending a pro-Palestinian rally at the Capitol on Sunday, according to police. Doar has since undergone successful surgery and is recovering from his injuries. The Council on Arab-Islamic Relations has called the attack a hate crime. "It's just showing a disturbing trend; we just can't ignore it," Bhojani said. "We need to face it, and I think the way we do that is by making sure that we bring all faith communities together in the state of Texas that exist and try to celebrate their practices and better defend them against any hatred." This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Lawmakers: anti-Muslim ads in Texas must be countered with positivity More than a dozen lawmakers called on the Department of Commerce on Thursday to add ByteDance, the Beijing-based parent company of TikTok, to its export control list in order to address critical vulnerabilities created by the companys access to U.S. software. The group, led by Reps. Dan Crenshaw (R-Texas) and Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.), expressed concerns about the security of U.S. user data on TikTok, as well as the relationship between ByteDance and the Chinese government. TikTok provides the [Chinese Communist Party] with the ability to weaponize the platform by suppressing, magnifying, and otherwise constructing narratives to target specific audiences abroad, the lawmakers said in a letter to Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo. Applications from ByteDance are an accessory to the soft power and propaganda of the CCP, and we must mitigate the role of software access in facilitating this capability, they added. The lawmakers urged Raimondo to add ByteDance to the Bureau of Industry Securitys Entity List. The export of goods, software and technology to companies on the list are restricted. This step would be instrumental in applying licensing restrictions to the export of software from the U.S. to ByteDance for its applications, they said. If American users are not able to upgrade their app with software updates, which involves the export of U.S. software, then the operability of the applications of concern will be weakened, the lawmakers added. TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew, who appeared before Congress last week alongside four other tech CEOs to testify about childrens safety online, emphasized that TikTok has not shared user data with the Chinese government. He also pointed to the social media companys initiative known as Project Texas, which aims to wall off U.S. user data from the rest of the company. However, lawmakers have expressed doubts about Project Texas, particularly after the Wall Street Journal reported last week that employees have sometimes been directed to share data with other parts of TikTok and ByteDance. Not only does this letter misrepresent the facts and the law, it also ignores the industry leading work weve done to safeguard protected U.S. user data, a TikTok spokesperson said in a statement. Weve engaged in good faith with Congress and relevant agencies through the [Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States] process for over four years and continue to do so. Updated at 10:52 a.m. ET For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. BALTIMORE After a guard repeatedly raped a teenage girl incarcerated in the 1980s at a since-closed Reisterstown juvenile detention facility, she had to be hospitalized after contracting multiple sexually transmitted infections. Decades later, around 2005 or 2006, a correctional officer searched a different teenage girl at a Salisbury detention center, then raped her. She suffered bleeding and was diagnosed with chlamydia. The second time she returned to the Lower Eastern Shore Youth Center, the same guard searched and raped her again. The two women are among 63 plaintiffs in the latest sex abuse lawsuit brought against the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services by the New York law firm Levy Konigsberg and Maryland-based Brown Kiely. The complaint, which identifies the men and women by their initials, said the department ignored the sexual abuse by failing to investigate or discipline staff members and had ineffective prevention policies in place. A child who is sent to any juvenile facility should be provided with a safe environment. Instead, our clients were sexually abused as children by state employees that were supposed to keep them safe, Levy Konigbserg attorney Jerome Block said in a statement. The sexual abuse inflicted on our clients was horrific and occurred at juvenile detention facilities throughout the State of Maryland going back many decades. The most recent complaint, filed Thursday morning in Baltimore City Circuit Court, alleges abuse spanning from 1969 to 2017 at 15 different juvenile facilities in Maryland, some of which have since closed. Staff threatened children into remaining quiet about the abuse and offered them rewards in exchange for their silence, the complaint said. One staff member threatened to harm the family of a teenager, who was incarcerated seven times between 2012 and 2016, if he reported the abuse. Some victims were assaulted by multiple staff members and some childrens attempts to report the abuse were met with inaction, the filing said. A total of 200 people, including the new plaintiffs, have sued the department since the Child Victims Act lifted the statute of limitations on child sex abuse lawsuits in Maryland. At least 10 lawsuits against the department have been filed since the new state law went into effect in October. Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown is defending the law from a constitutional challenge from the Catholic Archdiocese of Washington. Those bringing lawsuits against the agency for abuse they allegedly endured while incarcerated as children include 20 women who were at the former Thomas J.S. Waxter Childrens Center in Laurel, 37 men at the at the Charles H. Hickey Jr. School in Baltimore County; five men at the Baltimore City Juvenile Justice Center and 25 adults at the Cheltenham Youth Detention Center in Prince Georges County. State lawmakers recently unveiled new legislation that would make changes to juvenile justice laws, including rolling back some reforms passed in recent years, in response to an uptick in certain categories of youth crime. Maryland Public Defender Natasha Dartigue has said the bill will lead to the incarceration of more children in juvenile facilities. A spokesperson for the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services said the department had not yet been served with the latest lawsuit on Thursday afternoon. The department takes allegations of sexual abuse of children in our care very seriously and we are working hard to provide decent, humane, and rehabilitative environments for youth placed in the departments custody, spokesperson Eric Solomon said in December in response to other lawsuits. PATERSON Officials at School 12 in Paterson knew prosecutors were investigating a seventh grader for possible sexual assault of a younger student when they allegedly allowed the accused to prey upon a child in kindergarten in a basement bathroom. Those incidents reportedly happened in March 2018, and the Paterson Board of Education is considering a $250,000 settlement in a lawsuit filed by the second alleged victim. The seventh grader was the target of a complaint filed by the Passaic County Prosecutors Office in juvenile court in August 2018, according to records filed in the lawsuit. But the outcome of the criminal case is unclear because of the confidentiality of juvenile records. What did schools officials know, and when did they know it? Paterson Board of Education building, photographed on Tuesday, July 18, 2017. Paterson school officials were aware of the original allegations made against the seventh grader identified as K.G. in court records 11 days before the incident involving the boy in kindergarten, said a statement of facts filed by attorneys for the district in the lawsuit. School 12 administrators learned on March 12, 2018, that a child identified in court papers as J.B. may have been the victim of misconduct with sexual overtones involving an older student, the districts lawyers said. Officials contacted the Prosecutors Office and alerted school security to the situation. Around March 23, 2018, J.B. identified K.G. from a picture as the possible suspect, the districts lawyers said. School officials deferred to the prosecutors investigation, district lawyers said. Jonathan Ettman, the lawyer for the alleged second victim, identified as A.M., said his client, who was 5 years old at the time, was sexually assaulted by K.G. on March 23, 2018, after the first victim identified him. Public safety: 18 Paterson cops suspended in 2023 as discipline rises under NJ attorney general's watch What allegedly happened? The 5-year-old was in the school auditorium when he went to the basement bathroom unescorted, Ettmans complaint said. The seventh grader was allowed to leave his classroom on the buildings third floor and made his way to the basement, according to the complaint. The older boy allegedly placed his hand over the victim's mouth, forced the child to lie on the bathroom floor and then touched his buttocks and genitals, the lawsuit said. Ettman argued in court papers that the accused older student should have been supervised considering the pending allegations against him. The city school board is scheduled to vote on the settlement at its meeting on Feb. 14. Joe Malinconico is editor of Paterson Press. Email: editor@patersonpress.com This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Paterson schools did not protect student from assault, lawsuit says At least two people are dead after a jet leaving Ohio crashed on a Florida interstate Friday, according to our CBS affiliate WINK. The FAA confirmed that five people were on board the Bombardier Challenger 600 jet when it crashed on I-75 near Naples, Florida at around 3:15 p.m. FAA Statement on Bombardier Challenger 600 jet crash on Highway I-75 near Naples, Florida. Find recent FAA accident/incident statements at https://t.co/eBqkhheEpC. pic.twitter.com/0f1tMNZprk The FAA (@FAANews) February 9, 2024 Tracking the jets tail number, N823KD, the flight appeared to have been headed to the Naples Airport from Ohio State, according to FlightAware and WINK. >> Man studying to be priest in archdiocese that covers Dayton-area arrested on child porn charges According to WINK, Florida Highway Patrol said the jet collided with a vehicle while making an emergency landing. The jet was then scheduled to fly into Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport. Photos from the scene show a fiery crash with dark plumes of smoke in the air. >> PHOTOS: At least 2 dead after plane that traveled from Ohio crashes on Florida highway Air Traffic Control chatter indicates the jets two engines failed before the crash, WINK reported. The FAA said I-75 will be closed for at least 24 hours. A spokesperson from Ohio State said the plane is not affiliated with the university. We will update this story if we receive new information. The Lebanon County District Attorney's Office announced the arrest of Jason Shirk, 34, for the alleged sexual assault of three young children. Lebanon County Detectives Bureau became involved in the investigation of two juvenile females in 2022, according to officials. During that investigation, a third victim came forward to state that Shirk sexually abused her as well. "All three juvenile victims provided statements to police and independent interviewers, alleging the abuse occurred numerous times to each victim while they were at their respective homes," the district attorney's office said in a news release Friday. Lebanon County Detectives arrested Shirk on Tuesday, Feb. 6. Charges against Shirk include rape of a child, rape threat of forcible compulsion and aggravated indecent assault of a child. District Attorney Pier Hess Graf said Shirk is facing serious charges for violating and sexually assaulting multiple children and that there is a "suspicion additional victims exist." If you have any information, if you or someone else you know was victimized at the hands of this man, we ask you come forward and contact the Lebanon County Detective Bureau through the Office of the District Attorney," she said in the release. "Our office will prosecute this Defendant and seek all penalties and consequences available under the law. Residents with information about this case can contact the Lebanon County District Attorney's Office at 717-228-4403. Shirk is being held at the Lebanon County Correctional Facility, unable to make bail set at $250,000 as of Friday afternoon. A preliminary hearing is scheduled before Lebanon County Magisterial Judge Kim Wolfe at 8 a.m. Feb. 15. The Department of Human Services operates a 24/7 hotline to report suspected child abuse or concerns about the welfare of a child. ChildLine can be reached at 800-932-0313. Matthew Toth is a reporter for the Lebanon Daily News. Reach him at mtoth@ldnews.com or on Twitter at @DAMattToth. This article originally appeared on Lebanon Daily News: Police charge man,34, with rape and assault of three children A statewide child abuse hotline, new rules to reduce racial disparities among foster children and a wide-ranging review of how Minnesota spends its child protection money are among the proposals state legislators will begin considering when they convene next week. Altogether, at least nine legislative proposals have emerged in recent weeks to address widespread failures in Minnesota's child protection system that were identified in a 2023 Star Tribune investigation. The bills received their first public airing at Friday's meeting of the bipartisan Legislative Task Force on Child Protection, which met for the third time in three months to address problems identified in the recent Star Tribune investigation. Many task force members did not attend the session, including all of the Republicans. Calls to spokespeople for the Republican caucus were not returned. The series revealed hundreds of children are harmed each year when county officials return them to parents who have not addressed problems that prompted the removal of their children to foster care. Assistant Majority Leader Mary Kunesh, a Democratic senator from New Brighton, said she thinks the state should hire a consultant this summer with "national expertise in transforming child welfare systems" to help overhaul Minnesota's system. The consultant would be required to submit a final report by March 25, 2025. The assessment would cost an estimated $250,000. Kunesh said a preliminary review shows that Minnesota failed to spend more than $55 million in federal money on services aimed at preventing abuse and neglect since the funds become available in 2018. Kunesh said only three other states are sitting on more in unused funds. "It's really important that there be independent and external oversight to ensure our state agency is performing at its highest capacity," Kunesh said. Minnesota is one of just nine states in which counties control the delivery of child protection services. The state Department of Human Services (DHS) provides oversight. Task force members reviewed a report from a national child welfare consulting firm that shows Minnesota's spending on child protection services is out of step with the rest of the nation, with counties spending just 2% of available federal funds on programs and services aimed at curbing abuse and neglect. On average, other states spend 40% of their funds on such services, according to the review by The Stephen Group of New Hampshire. The review also showed that Minnesota spends far too much on administrative costs and caseworkers visits. "It is really important you start asking questions about how to make sure you maximize all of the available federal dollars," said John Stephen, CEO of The Stephen Group. "There is a lot of opportunity there for the state of Minnesota." Senate President Bobby Joe Champion, a Democrat from Minneapolis and a task force member, told legislators that Minnesota needs to pass the African American Family Preservation Act to address practices that result in the disproportionate removal of Black children from their parents. Attorney Kelis Houston, who advocated on behalf of children as a guardian ad litem for several years, told legislators that "institutional racism" is responsible for the fact that 26% of children in foster care are Black, even though those kids make up just 10% of the child protection population. "The worst thing Minnesota can do is keep doubling down on its failed approach," said Houston, adding that tragedies continue to occur because caseworkers are overwhelmed by "trivial cases." The Star Tribune's investigation found that since 2012, at least 86 children died from maltreatment after Minnesota's child protection system failed to protect them from caregivers with a history of abuse or neglect. Another 11 children died from suicide after a child protection case was filed on their behalf, including a 6-year-old girl. Task force members also discussed weaknesses in the way counties investigate deaths linked to child abuse. Counties are supposed to file a child mortality report every time a child dies from maltreatment or if the child dies from homicide, suicide, an accident or undetermined causes. The reports are supposed to help guide improvements to child protection. But a Star Tribune survey of more than two dozen counties in 2023 showed that compliance is spotty. Some counties failed to conduct required reviews while others take years to complete them. Rep. Dave Pinto, DFL-St. Paul and co-chair of the task force, said the current system is "pretty confusing" and too focused on whether social services complied with existing rules instead of whether changes in policy or practices might have led to a different outcome. "It's something we really want to get right," Pinto said. Mark Hudson, a Minnesota physician who has been involved in mortality reviews for more than a decade, told panel members that the reviews should more often include the perspective of medical workers, law enforcement members and people who are legally required to report suspected abuse or neglect. "Transparency is lacking now," said Hudson, medical director of the Midwest Children's Resource Center in Minneapolis. Palestinians walk through destruction caused by Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip on Jan. 16. (Adel Hana / Associated Press) To the editor: Your article about civilians in the Gaza Strip being angry at Hamas made me ill. It seems that the majority of Gazans are angry that Hamas did not plan to to take care of their people with food, drink and money before the group launched its massacre of innocent Israelis on Oct. 7. Hamas has never cared about taking care of the people of Gaza; it cares about destroying Israel, which is in the group's charter. As has been said by others, if the Palestinians were to put down their weapons, there would be peace but if the Jews were to put down their weapons, there would be no more Israel. Dafni Black, Culver City .. To the editor: When I saw your article about Gazans being angry at Hamas, it gave me hope. Perhaps there were stirrings of empathy in Gaza for the Israeli victims of Hamas' Oct. 7 pogrom. Maybe Gazans were realizing that butchering and burning Israeli babies in kibbutzim; slaughtering hundreds of young people at a music festival; raping and sexually mutilating women, girls and men; and kidnapping 240 people, including women, toddlers and an infant, was morally reprehensible and would reverberate to their own detriment. Then I read the article, and my heart sank. There was no hint of empathy for raped, slaughtered and kidnapped Israelis, no willingness to acknowledge that Hamas brutally massacred Israeli civilians. Gazans "celebrated" the attack; they criticized Hamas not for its barbarity, but for not planning better for the war. Without empathy, there is no path to an enduring peace. Stephen A. Silver, San Francisco This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Sir Keir Starmer, Leader of the Opposition, has been criticised for backtracking on Labour's green investment plan - Kirsty Wigglesworth/AP SIR Labour has scrapped its 28 billion green investment plan (report, telegraph.co.uk, February 8). Another U-turn! What, exactly, are this partys policies? J L Greenwood London SW18 SIR It will be fascinating to compare the pledges that Sir Keir Starmer makes at the next election with those he made during the Labour leadership election in 2020. It appears there will be no green new deal, no higher tax rates for top earners and no scrapping of tuition fees. I wonder if Sir Keir will thank his friend Jeremy Corbyn, as he did in 2020. Richard Allison Edinburgh SIR I despair of the Labour Party, which lacks the vision and purpose to defend its green energy plan. Abandoning the pledge is a backward step. Revitalising the green economy would have put Britain in a strong position. Instead, Labour constantly looks over its shoulder, terrified of any voter backlash. British politics are being stifled by this absence of courage. Trevor Rigg Edinburgh SIR Allister Heath (Comment, February 8) describes the monstrous deception of the campaign for electric vehicles. If you are an urbanite making short journeys, these cars make sense. But if you live in the countryside and want to go somewhere, you need to know that you will be able to get there and back. In my case, for instance, a journey to see an elderly relative takes three-and-a-half hours on a good run without having to stop to charge a battery. I am yet to read anything that persuades me to buy an electric vehicle, and remain put off by the problems above along with the expensive cost of buying one in the first place, and the lack of suitable infrastructure. Jonathan Williams Sleaford, Lincolnshire SIR I cannot praise my electric vehicle highly enough. I have had it for just over a year and have driven more than 15,000 miles in that time. During the summer I paid about 70 a month for both gas and electricity, which included the cost of charging the car at home. In December and January my energy bills rose to 250, again including the car. I do, however, have solar panels, which have helped to keep the cost down. On the rare occasions I have had to top up at a public charging point, I have been amazed at the speed of the process. There is no way I would return to driving a car with an internal combustion engine, given the pleasure and savings I get from running my electric one. John Fretwell Doncaster, South Yorkshire Dental service gaps SIR The current dental contract (Letters, February 8) means that NHS dental services are centrally commissioned. Before it came in, contract dentists could commission services themselves. This meant that successful practices could grow and, in areas short of services, young dentists could set up their own practices and wait for patients to come. The system was flexible. I was able to buy a one-dentist practice and grow it to four dentists, plus a full-time hygienist. The top-down contract stifles this flexible model. A 20,000 golden hello for dentists who move to dental deserts (report, February 7) wont solve the access problem. John Cottingham Healing, Lincolnshire SIR As a primary school pupil in the 1950s, I remember dentists coming to school to assess childrens teeth. What happened to this service? Michael Fielding Winchester, Hampshire SIR Peter Rosie (Letters, February 7) recommends a return to the fee-per-item model of dentistry that was in place when I was young. I have doubts. I and most of my contemporaries had all our back molars filled routinely, even when there was no need. I have suffered the results of this vandalism ever since, with deteriorated amalgam fillings. It is also worth noting that my son, and most of his friends, have no fillings at all, and my dental hygiene has always been excellent. I havent needed a new filling since this model was abandoned. Alison Levinson Hastings, East Sussex Banks and charities SIR I was interested in the letters (February 7 and 8) about Barclays bank requesting information from charities. When I was a groups secretary, Barclays obtained my address from our Charity Commission record and sent a list of questions, including whether I owned or rented my house, how long I had lived there and where I was born. I refused to answer these questions unless the bank could explain why it needed this information when I had no involvement in the groups financial affairs. Needless to say, no explanation was provided. Rachel Keegan Ashford, Middlesex SIR When visiting a small town in northern France recently, I noticed that five banks were available to its population of just over 2,000 people. Another small town a few miles away also had at least four branches. How have the French managed to retain their banking services in small communities, while those in the UK have become fewer and less accessible? Patricia Jagger Elstow, Bedfordshire SIR Poor service seems to have spread to National Savings and Investments. It has taken three weeks to transfer money between my accounts. My building society takes nanoseconds. Lesley Ott Settle, North Yorkshire A long way from home SIR Reading about migrating milk bottles and fish boxes (Letters, February 7) reminded me of a family holiday in Scotland in the 1990s. We arrived by train at Mallaig, on the west coast, to be greeted on the platform by a luggage trolley bearing the message: Not to be removed from Kings Cross a journey of more than 550 miles, which involved at least two changes. Max Ingram Emneth, Norfolk Racist countryside SIR The assertions reported in your article, British countryside is a racist and colonial white space, wildlife charities claim (February 8), are both absurd and unreasonable. Absurd, because there have obviously been no colonies inside Britain since ancient times, when much of it was a Roman colony. Unreasonable, because it is the choice of the great majority of non-white Britons to live in our cities rather than our countryside. As a result, 96 per cent of our rural population remains white. Furthermore, what is wrong with our green spaces being governed by white British cultural values? These are not racist but tolerant and reasonable, which is why so many people want to come and live in Britain. The idea of rural racism and colonialism is total baloney, and it is a sickening dereliction for those running rural charities to suggest otherwise. What your article demonstrates is that too many charities are being run by the wrong people. They have apparently been poisoned by misguided, Left-wing thinking and a strange middle-class self-loathing, which drives them to condemn the very nation that has nurtured them. Their entire focus should be on working to fulfil the actual purpose of their organisations. Gregory Shenkman London SW7 Mystery soup SIR I am a creature of habit, with limited culinary tastes, and always have soup as my starter. In my extensive experience, I have never met a waiter who knows what the soup of the day is (Letters, February 8). When I ask, my inquiry is usually followed by a scowl plus a shrug if I am in France as the irritated waiter disappears into the kitchen to find out. Whatever the answer happens to be, the brutal truth is that it is soupe des restes dhier anything left over from the previous day. Nicholas Young London W13 SIR While in France, my wife ordered a mojito cocktail. When it arrived it didnt taste quite right, and the waitress was called over. She produced a straw and asked if she could taste it. After about half a minute of deliberation, she offered her verdict: Madame, the cocktail is not the problem. You are. Craig Heeley Badminton, Gloucestershire The greatest prize of a winters pruning Stick men: an illustration of a country scene by the Italian artist Turone (c 1390) - DeAgostini/Getty Images SIR For those who dont have wisteria (Letters, February 8), but whose thoughts are turning to the winter pruning of fruit trees, and the cutting back of holly and hazel before the sap rises, I suggest looking out for next years walking sticks and staffs. Matured for a year, these boughs are easily carved or dressed, then straightened and smoothed with sandpaper, with sculptures of birds and mammals at the top. Later, in warmer weather, they can be painted with watercolours and varnished, then used for clearing nettles, propping up the doddery or leaning on at country fairs. A good stick can easily take 5 per cent of an adults weight on a two-mile walk. This is no mean feat and offers welcome relief for old knees. As a hobby, carving such sticks is lots of fun, and can provide delightfully utilitarian presents for young and old alike. Dr Andrew Harding Haywards Heath, West Sussex Post Office culprits mustnt slip off the hook SIR I agree with Charles Simon (Letters, February 8) there is a danger that Sir Ed Davey and other senior figures could escape punishment for the Post Office scandal. The BBC recently reported that in 2014 the Post Office sacked a firm of forensic accountants that had found bugs in the Horizon system. The findings were allegedly then covered up by a committee that included the Post Office chairman and chief executive, and senior civil servants. These officials must be brought to account. Tim Oldfield Wye, Kent SIR I was horrified to read that the compensation offered to Alan Bates and others has been, in Mr Batess words, cruel and derisory. It took a television programme to prompt action, and now each and every claim must be settled properly as a matter of urgency. J M Chamberlain Brancaster, Norfolk SIR The Government should not just be talking about compensation for the sub-postmasters. What they are owed is a refund of the money stolen from them by the Post Office plus interest. They should then receive an additional sum as compensation for their disgraceful treatment. Penny Cole Watlington, Oxfordshire SIR If sub-postmasters are liable for their legal expenses to put right the biggest miscarriage of justice in British history, please tell me that at least they will not have to pay tax on their compensation. Ginger Irby London SE23 Letters to the Editor We accept letters by email and post. Please include name, address, work and home telephone numbers. ADDRESS: 111 Buckingham Palace Road, London, SW1W 0DT EMAIL: dtletters@telegraph.co.uk FOLLOW: Telegraph Letters on Twitter @LettersDesk NEWSLETTER: sign up to receive Letters to the Editor here Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. The International Marxist Tendency (IMT) condemns the proposed expulsion of Communist Ofer Cassif MK from the Israeli Knesset (parliament), and we indignantly protest the suppression of democratic rights in Israel. Ofer Cassif is a leading member of the Israeli Communist Party (Maki) and a representative of the Hadash coalition in the Knesset. He was suspended by the Knessets Ethics Committee for 45 days on 18 October, after he accused the government of carrying out the ethnic cleansing of Palestinian territories. In other words, he was suspended from parliament for telling the truth! Now the regime is pushing for his expulsion from parliament altogether. The latest attack on Cassif was launched after he signed a petition in support of South Africas case in the International Court of Justice, which accuses Israel of committing genocide in Gaza. Shortly after he signed this petition, 85 MKs from the ruling far-right coalition and the so-called moderate opposition signed a motion to the Knesset House Committee, calling for his expulsion. The real intent behind this attack on Cassif is clear: to crush any opposition within Israel to the genocidal war it is carrying out in Gaza / Image: Ofer Cassif, Twitter On Tuesday 30 January, the Knesset House Committee voted 14-2 to support the motion to expel Cassif on the grounds that his support for South Africas case was treasonous and amounted to support for an armed struggle against the State of Israel. Cassifs expulsion will be put to the vote in the Knesset on 19 February, and must win the support of 90 of the Knessets 120 members to pass. Considering that 85 MKs already signed the motion to expel Cassif, it is highly likely that Cassif will be expelled. The real intent behind this attack on Cassif is clear: to crush any opposition within Israel to the genocidal war it is carrying out in Gaza, and the ongoing ethnic cleansing of Palestinians in the West Bank. The far-right National Security Minister, Ben Gvir, made this plain when he posted a picture of another Hadash MK, Ayman Odeh on X (Twitter) with the comment: next in line. Fellow Hadash MK, Aida Touma-Suleiman, has warned that with Tuesdays debate, the members of the Knesset are gnawing away at the remnants of democracy in Israel. Regardless of our political differences with Cassif and Hadash, we support their democratic rights and offer our solidarity in their struggle against Zionist repression. Communists and consistent democrats all over the world should rally in support of all victims of repression, and protest against a flagrant attack on basic democratic rights, which shows not only the hypocrisy of bourgeois democracy in general, but the rottenness of Israeli democracy in particular. The News In California, where Robert F. Kennedy Jr. lives, he needs 219,403 valid signatures to make the ballot or 75,000 registrations with his new We the People party. In North Carolina, hed need 82,542 valid signatures by May 5. And on Friday morning, the Democratic National Committee filed a Federal Election Commission complaint against Kennedys super PAC, accusing it of illegally coordinating with the campaign to get him on state ballots. One weird trick could fix that problem. The Libertarian Party, with automatic ballot access across most of the country, will pick its nominee in 107 days. And Kennedy might go for it. We have a really good relationship with the Libertarian Party, Kennedy told CNNs Michael Smerconish last week. I feel very comfortable with most of the values of the Libertarian Party. The ex-Democrat called for the release of Julian Assange at the New Hampshire libertarian PORCfest; he denounced turnkey totalitarianism at last years FreedomFest. That speech earned him an invitation to this months California Libertarian Party convention in Orange County, where hell join the partys presidential candidates in a forum, as a potential challenger. Ive unironically been told that Im platforming Bobby Kennedy, California Libertarian Party chairman Adrian Malagon said, with a laugh. In what universe am I platforming a Kennedy? Hes platforming us. Kennedy, who has benefitted from voter angst about President Bidens age and Donald Trumps rap sheet, has built a following among many Libertarians. Hes done so while holding views that contradict the party especially after the 2022 victory of the Mises Caucus, a radical faction irritated by the nominations of ex-Republicans (former Rep. Bob Barr, former Gov. Gary Johnson) who didnt share their more doctrinaire views. Johnson was booed at a 2016 Libertarian Party debate for supporting the 1964 Civil Rights Act and for being the only candidate against abolishing drivers licenses. Kennedys differences run deeper. The current party platform opposes state intervention in the economy; Kennedy has proposed tax-free government bonds to help Americans buy homes. The party believes that people should be able to travel freely across borders; Kennedy promises to close the border with Mexico and finish the border fence with a day one executive order. The party is anti-war in every context, a point its official account reiterated on X after Kennedy explained his stem-to-stern support for Israel. His vibes go well with the current Libertarian Party, but the policy specifics dont, said Brian Doherty, a senior editor at Reason magazine and historian of the movement. Policy RFK Jr. is not libertarian at all. But podcaster RFK Jr., social media RFK Jr., is well designed to appeal to the red-pilled Mises crowd. Davids view This weeks events showed exactly why Kennedy, the best-known third party candidate in America, is polling so much better than other outsiders in recent election cycles. In just one hour, last night, Joe Biden flubbed a reference to Egypt (he said Mexico) in a press conference called to dispel doubts about his mental fitness, and Donald Trump celebrating a Nevada caucus win that was preordained by the state GOP said Turkey when he meant Hungary. In that environment, third parties have an unusually strong chance to prove their relevance, and policy litmus tests and specifics simply dont matter as much. Kennedy holds some views that are antithetical to the Libertarian Party. But hes been with them on three defining issues of the Biden era: Opposing vaccine mandates, battling tech companies over free speech, and halting any further military funding for Ukraine. And Kennedy takes Libertarians seriously. While he hasnt been campaigning at state Libertarian Party meetings the California convention will be his first hes made himself available to movement influencers. Dave Smith, a comedian and leader in the Mises factions LP takeover, conducted an 80-minute interview with Kennedy last week about his support for Israel. They couldnt find common ground, but they wanted to. Would you consider the vice presidency? Kennedy asked Smith. Itd probably be good insurance for you, because Im no LBJ, said Smith, who considered a run for the nomination but opted against it. I dont think theyd want to get you out of the way. Thats exactly why I want you, said Kennedy. Since 1972, when the LP started running presidential candidates, it has nominated two very different kinds. The first: True believers who are completely aligned with the partys platform, and the delegates who care enough to register and show up to the convention. (Primaries are non-binding, and only the convention vote matters.) The second: People with existing brands and media reach who dont commit to the entire platform and, usually, stop getting asked about it. The most electorally successful nominees fit into that second camp, led by Johnson, whose 4.5 million votes in 2016 broke every LP record. Notoriety and ballot access are the two things we cant sweep under the rug, said Malagon. He brings a gravitas that we havent had in the LP in a long time. He has strong support from the general public and would help get ballot access, put us on the map. The View From Libertarians Johnson himself told Americana that hed vote for Kennedy as the Libertarian nominee, and still consider supporting him if he stayed outside the party. He had to battle for the nomination twice, facing off against less well-known but more purist candidates in multiple convention ballots. It could be done. I had to defend having drivers licenses! Johnson recalled in an interview. Be honest, tell the truth, express your views, be transparent. If you get the nomination, great. If not, you stayed true to yourself. The purists are not making way for Kennedy. Michael Rectenwald, whose platform calls for abolishing the income tax and shuttering most of the national security state, has been campaigning at LP meetings and debating the rest of the field. Kennedy, he said, thinks he can ride into Washington like a white knight and fix all of our problems. He had no business competing with real anti-statists, and if he ran for the nomination and lost, hed be humiliated. He would have the federal government guarantee a 3% mortgage rate backed up by bonds, Rectenwald said, talking through an issue hed heard Kennedy discuss, and planned to confront him over this month in California. He says its like having a rich uncle cosign on your mortgage loan. Im gonna ask him, what rich uncle would that be? Would that be Uncle Sam, who is $34 trillion in debt? Its just outrageous what he wants to do. The Mises factions critics are skeptical, too. Nicholas Sarwark, who chaired the LP from 2014 to 2020, has watched the party court controversy and lose paying members under new leadership. He saw opportunity for Libertarians if they welcomed never Trumpers who were about to be politically homeless; he saw far less upside if the party embraced Kennedy. Theyre casting around for somebody who gives a shit about their stupid right-wing anti-vax politics, and nobody does, said Sarwark. They have a candidate now. His name is Donald Trump. Its probably the stupidest political strategy Ive ever seen. Notable In Politico, Jonathan Martin warns Democrats that Kennedy and left-wing challengers will post more of a threat than the stuttering No Labels project. In The New York Sun, Caroline McCaughey asks whether the Kennedy/LP flirtation can get traction. I think that leadership is pushing this as kind of a way to be relevant at any cost, says the leader of the LPs Classical Liberal Caucus. As part of Pennsylvania's preparations to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America, several full-scale bronze replicas of the Liberty Bell will be displayed in communities statewide. One of the bells is destined for Wayne County, specifically in front of the historic Hawley Silk Mill. Federal and state officials, as well as Justin Genzlinger, president and CEO of Settlers Hospitality, which owns the mill, made the official announcement on site, Feb. 2. The Liberty Bell replica is expected to be dedicated here in the fall of 2024. "The America250PA Semiquincentennial Bells will lift up the stories of communities that have been untold or not widely known, yet shaped the history of the Commonwealth," said Cassandra Coleman, executive director of America250PA. "America250PA is so excited to be dedicating its second Semiquincentennial Bell at the Hawley Silk Mill this fall to highlight the remarkable work of the individuals immigrants, primarily women who helped forge this great nation during the Industrial Revolution right here in Pennsylvania." Communities, organizations and others apply to permanently host a bell, which is locally funded. This artist rendering shows the planned placement of the America250PA commemorative Liberty Bell at the Hawley Silk Mill campus, to be dedicated in the fall of 2024. Bohlin Cywinski Jackson, an architectural firm based in Wilkes-Barre, will design the site. The firm was the architect for the Liberty Bell Center in Philadelphia and designed the plan to repurpose the Hawley Silk Mill. Coleman said that Pennsylvania is the first state in the nation to have all counties pass a resolution for the 250th anniversary, becoming an official partner. Over a dozen programs and projects have been launched statewide to mark the observance. The Hawley Silk Mill was built in 1880 as the Bellemonte Silk Mill, a massive bluestone factory powered by the Paupack Falls in back. It was a center for employment, with many women, children and immigrants involved in silk production. Numerous other silk and textile companies followed. Honesdale also became an industrial center for this industry. For over a century, the Hawley Silk Mill was a silk or textile manufacturing site. "For the Hawley Silk Mill site, for over 125 years this has been an economic hub for the borough of Hawley," Genzlinger stated. He thanked the borough for its assistance when the Genzlingers and their partners developed the landmark site in 2009-2010 as a multipurpose facility, making it once again a focal point of activity. "Looking forward as we represent Hawley Borough and Wayne County in the Pocono Mountains, which is today a central hub for tourism in our region," Genzlinger said, "we believe this point of interest will have tens of thousands of not hundreds of thousands of people come and stay here." "We will tell the untold stories of how the mills were built in our community, and who worked in them, and I think that is the most significant thing in this project," he said. Justin Genzlinger, left, is president and CEO of Settlers Hospitality, which owns the Hawley Silk Mill. Cassandra Coleman, right, executive director of America250PA, was present Feb. 2, 2024, to announce that the Silk Mill has been designated as as site for a full-scale Liberty Bell replica this fall. The bell will honor this region's role in shaping the history of the United States of America, specifically the former silk mill's role in the Industrial Revolution. The bell will be supported in its collar immediately across from the Silk Mill entrance on the grounds next to the Cocoon Coffee House, which is part of the Silk Mill campus. The bell will be the focus within an amphitheater-style setting with benches, and panels erected in back telling the history celebrated here. Genzlinger said the Liberty Bell site will cost a bit over $350,000, all locally funded. Bohlin Cywinski Jackson will design the site. The Wilkes-Barre firm was the architect for the Liberty Bell Center in Philadelphia and designed the plan to repurpose the Hawley Silk Mill. Congressman Matt Cartwright (D-8) commented, "It is altogether fitting and proper... to recognize not only the 250th anniversary of the founding of our nation but also Pennsylvania's contribution to it. And we did so much; we have so much to be proud of... The Declaration of Independence was written here. The Constitution was drafted here, and those were contributions we Pennsylvanians fought for." The site for the America250PA commemorative Liberty Bell is shown at the Hawley Silk Mill campus. At left is the Cocoon Coffee House & Bakery, where originally silk cocoons provided the silk processed into fabric across the road at what was then the Bellemonte Silk Mill, built in 1880. Either silk or textiles were manufactured here for over a hundred years. It was next used as an antiques and reproductions outlet. In 2010 the Genzlinger family and their partner investors reopened it as the Hawley Silk Mill, featuring the Hawley campus of Lackawanna College, a fitness center, retail shops, art shops and galleries, professional offices, event space and brewery. Drew Popish, northeast regional director for the Office of Gov. Josh Shapiro, stated, "It is not just a privilege, but it is a necessity that we highlight these remarkable narratives... At the forefront of this endeavor is America250PA, a commission that is dedicated to commemorating and celebrating the 250th anniversary of our great country." State Sen. Lisa Baker (R-20) shared, America250PA well selected and designated the bell as the instrument for honoring our prized assets like we have here at the Hawley Silk Mill. Those assets that symbolize the energy, the idea, and the drive for our economy that was the backbone for our democracy. There was glory... and glamor in marking our journey, and there was tremendous toil and turmoil as well." The Hawley Silk Mill, she said, is the perfect place to tell the stories and spirit of progress alive and instructive." Baker commended the Genzlinger family and others for having the vision and devotion to secure its rightful place on the National Register of Historic Places. "Here, the seeds were planted for an emerging labor movement that would yield vital worker rights and protection," she said, "and here was proof that women did not have to be relegated to the home but could take position and perform in the shop and the mill." Officials met at the Boiler Room event space at the Hawley Silk Mill on Feb. 2, 2024, for the America250PA announcement naming the Silk Mill as one of several sites for a commemorative, full-scale bronze Liberty Bell. From left, seated: Wayne County Commissioners James Shook and Jocelyn Cramer; Hawley Borough Councilor Elaine Herzog; Doug Miller, field representative of state Sen. Rosemary Brown (R-40). Standing: State Rep. Joe Adams (R-139); Congressman Matt Cartwright (D-8); state Sen. Lisa Baker (R-20); Cassandra Coleman, executive director of America250PA; Justin Genzlinger, president and CEO of Settlers Hospitality, owner of the Hawley Silk Mill; Drew Popish, northeast regional director for the Office of Gov Josh .Shapiro; and state Rep. Jonathan Fritz (R-111). State Rep. Joe Adams (R-139), a Hawley native, said as a boy he delivered newspapers to Sherman Mill, what is today Hawley Silk Mill. "Many of our friends, many of our family members worked in the mills; that is what people of Hawley did," he reflected. "It was a big industry, and it created a nice opportunity for families to stay here and make a living." Of interest: 139th District Rep. Joe Adams not seeking second term County Commissioner James Shook, also a Hawley native, said he recalled seeing the many women coming out of Sherman Mill when their work was done. "It was just an amazing industry. There were so many people employed here," Shook said. The Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial (America250PA) was established by the legislature and governor in 2018 to plan, encourage, develop, and coordinate the commemoration of the nation's 250th anniversary leading up to 2026. America250PA focuses on Pennsylvanias role in that event. For more information about America250PA and the Semiquincentennial Bell project, visit america250pa.org. Information about Hawley Silk Mill is found at hawleysilkmill.com. Peter Becker has worked at the Tri-County Independent or its predecessor publications since 1994. Reach him at pbecker@tricountyindependent.com or 570-253-3055 ext. 1588. This article originally appeared on Tri-County Independent: America250PA: Liberty Bell replica set for Hawley, Wayne County A new military aid package from the Lithuanian Ministry of National Defence arrived in Ukraine on Friday, 9 February. Source: European Pravda, citing the Lithuanian Defence Ministry Details: The Lithuanian Armed Forces handed over equipment required for the winter season and tens of thousands of sets of warm clothes to their Ukrainian counterparts in a new package. "We are providing tens of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers with the equipment and clothing they need for the cold season in outdoor conditions. Each of our support packages is an additional step towards victory," said Arvydas Anusauskas, Lithuania's Minister of National Defence. Photo: Lithuanian Defence Ministry Background: On 2 February, Lithuania delivered another batch of military assistance to Ukraine, including remote detonation systems and ammunition for anti-tank grenade launchers. At the end of 2023, Lithuania donated field equipment and dry rations to Ukraine, as well as several million rounds of cartridges and several thousand projectiles for short-range portable anti-tank grenade launchers. Support UP or become our patron! Palestinians look at the destruction after an Israeli strike in Rafah, southern Gaza Strip, Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Fatima Shbair) Israeli airstrikes hit the central Gaza Strip and the southern city of Rafah on the border with Egypt overnight into Friday, killing nearly two dozen people including women and children, witnesses and hospital officials said. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Friday he has ordered the military to draw up plans to evacuate the population of Rafah before an expected Israeli invasion of the city. More than half of Gazas 2.3 million population has been driven by Israels military offensive toward the border with Egypt. Unable to leave the tiny Palestinian territory, many are living in makeshift tent camps or overflowing U.N.-run shelters. The developments came hours after U.S. President Joe Biden said Thursday that he considers Israels conduct in the war to be over the top. On Friday, the White House said nothing has changed as it relates to U.S. policy on the Israel-Hamas war. The Palestinian death toll from the war has surpassed 27,840 people, the Health Ministry in Gaza said. A quarter of Gazas residents are starving. The war began with Hamas assault into Israel on Oct. 7, in which militants killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducted around 250. Hamas is still holding more than 130 hostages, but around 30 of them are believed to be dead. Currently: Israel and Hamas are far apart on a Gaza cease-fire and hostage deal. What are the sticking points? The families of a few Israeli hostages dont want a deal to bring them home. They want Hamas crushed. U.S. conducts new airstrikes targeting Yemens Houthi rebels. Find more of APs coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war. Here's the latest: SPEAKER OF ISRAEL'S PARLIAMENT CANCELS MEETING WITH U.N. CHIEF FOR CRITICIZING ISRAEL'S MILITARY OPERATIONS UNITED NATIONS The speaker of Israels parliament canceled a meeting with U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for again calling for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza and criticizing Israel for targeting Hamas when it uses human shields. Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana tweeted the cancelation Friday on X, formerly known as Twitter, saying there are lost causes and red lines I will not whitewash Guterres. At a press conference Thursday, the U.N. chief condemned the horrific attacks of Hamas on Oct. 7. But he said he cant understand how, if Israel says its just fighting Hamas, not the Palestinian people, its military operation in Gaza has reportedly killed around 28,000 people, displaced 75% of the population, and destroyed entire neighborhoods. I think that there is something wrong in the way the military operations have been conducted, Guterres said. An Israeli journalist responded saying its not easy to fight Hamas when its operating in the civilian population, including in schools and hospitals. Guterres replied saying he has condemned the use of human shields as a violation of international humanitarian law but the same international humanitarian law is clear that even when there are human shields, there is an obligation to protect civilians. Guterres also called for a halt to violations of international law, which include protecting civilians, by both Israel and Hamas. And he reiterated calls for an immediate ceasefire and release of all hostages taken captive on Oct. 7. Speaker Ohana said in his tweet that he had intended during his meeting Friday with Guterres to try to convince, and also to give him a book that we prepared in the Knesset, documented with the photos of Oct. 7. U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric, asked his reaction to the canceled meeting, said: Its difficult to say you want to convince someone when youre not going to meet with them. U.N. CHIEF SAYS PALESTINIAN CIVILIANS IN RAFAH SHOULD NOT BE FORCED TO MOVE UNITED NATIONS The United Nations chief is worried about the fate of civilians in Rafah, stressing that the more than 1 million Palestinians who were pushed to the southern Gaza city to escape the Israeli offensive should not be forced to move against their will. U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said Friday that Secretary-General Antonio Guterres made clear at a press conference Thursday that civilians need to be protected, and were not going to force anyone to go anywhere. Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected Hamas ceasefire terms on Wednesday and vowed to expand the offensive to Rafah. And on Friday he ordered the military to prepare an evacuation plan for Rafah ahead of an expected ground invasion. When the U.N. chief was asked Thursday if there was a contingency plan for civilians in Rafah to go somewhere else and whether he would push for opening the border to Egypt, Guterres replied: I think that we should push to avoid the tragedy instead of pushing for things to facilitate the tragedy. He reiterated his call for a humanitarian ceasefire. Dujarric said the U.N. humanitarian office reports that the unprecedented density of Rafahs population makes it nearly impossible to protect civilians in the event of ground attacks. The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs known as OCHA reports that congestion in Rafah has blocked normal routes, with tents set up by families on any available flat, clean surface, the spokesman said. OCHA says municipal authorities report that in the last three months Rafah has produced the equivalent of a years worth of garbage, and the scarcity of food, clean water, and health services has led to an outbreak of preventable diseases, Dujarric said. HOSTAGE WHO DIED IN HAMAS CAPTIVITY POSSIBLY KILLED IN AIRSTRIKE, ISRAELI MILITARY SAYS JERUSALEM The Israeli military says a hostage who died in Hamas captivity might have been killed by an Israeli airstrike. Announcing the results of an initial investigation, the army said Friday it is possible that Yossi Sharabi, 53, was killed when a building collapsed from the force of an airstrike on a nearby target. But the report, delivered to Sharabis family, also said he could have been killed by Hamas militants. The military says the airstrike hit a legitimate target and was approved according to procedure. It gave no further details. Sharabi was among 250 people kidnapped by Hamas in its Oct. 7 attack. Sharabi was held with two other hostages, Noa Argamani, 26, and Itay Svirsky, 38. The three were seen in a video released by Hamas last month. In the video, made under duress, Argamani says her two fellow hostages had been killed in Israeli airstrikes. The video then showed what appeared to be the bodies of the two men. Israel later pronounced Sharabi and Svirsky dead, without giving a cause of death. The fate of the hostages has captured the Israeli publics attention, and their families have said time is running out to save them. The relatives have expressed concern about the conditions of captivity, as well as fears that Israels heavy bombing could endanger them. Israel has already pronounced the deaths of over 30 people kidnapped by Hamas, including three people who were mistakenly shot by Israeli troops after escaping captivity. Over 100 hostages remain in the besieged enclave after 121 were exchanged in a November ceasefire. WHITE HOUSE SAYS NOTHING HAS CHANGED IN U.S. POLICY ON THE ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR WASHINGTON The White House said nothing has changed as it relates to U.S. policy on the Israel-Hamas war one day after President Joe Biden said that Israels military response in Gaza was over the top. His position hasnt changed, I dont think his messaging has changed, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said. She stressed that Biden has consistently supported Israels goal to defeat Hamas. At the same time, while we have said that, we have been also very clear, the president has been very clear that they must do so by ensuring that their operations are targeted and conducted in a way that we are protecting innocent civilians, Jean-Pierre added. 17-YEAR-OLD KILLED BY ISRAELI SOLDIERS IN WEST BANK, PALESTINIAN HEALTH OFFICIALS SAY RAMALLAH, West Bank Palestinian health officials say a 17-year-old boy has been shot and killed by Israeli soldiers in the central West Bank. The boy, whom health officials identified as Moaz Shamsa, was shot in the chest in the village of Beita, just south of the city of Nablus, the officials said. The Israeli military did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The shooting was the latest in the volatile territory, where Palestinian officials say 387 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire since Oct. 7, when Hamas militants in Gaza staged their shock attack on southern Israel. After the attack, Israel clamped down on the cities and towns of the West Bank in what it says is a campaign against militants. It has staged near-nightly raids that arrest dozens of Palestinians and often result in deadly shootings. EGYPT'S PRESIDENT PUSHES BACK AGAINST BIDEN CLAIMS ABOUT OPENING GAZA BORDER CAIRO Egypts President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi denied he initially opposed allowing humanitarian aid into Gaza through the Rafah border crossing until U.S. President Joe Biden convinced him otherwise. From the first moment, Egypt has opened the Rafah border crossing from its side without any restrictions or conditions and has mobilized massive humanitarian aid and relief, the Egyptian leader said in an official statement Friday. A day earlier, Biden took credit for convincing el-Sissi whom he mistakenly called the president of Mexico to open the Rafah crossing for aid. I talked to him. I convinced him to open the gate, Biden said at a news conference. At the start of the war, Israel banned entry of food, water, fuel and other supplies into Gaza, vowing to let nothing in until Hamas released hostages it took on Oct. 7. Israel forced the closure of the Rafah crossing by bombarding the Palestinian side repeatedly. It took heavy U.S. pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu before Israel agreed to allow a small number of trucks into Gaza from Egypt. Egypt at the time repeatedly said it wanted to open the crossing to let aid enter. Its reluctance was more focused on allowing a limited number of people out of Gaza onto its soil fearing a mass influx of refugees. International relief agencies have constantly pled for more aid to be allowed in, complaining that that aid delivery is hobbled by the opening of too few border crossings, a slow vetting process for trucks and goods going into Gaza, and continuing fighting throughout the territory. In his statement, el-Sissi held Israel responsible for the delay in allowing aid in, pointing to the airstrikes on the crossing. When the strikes stopped, he said, Egypt repaired the crossing to allow humanitarian aid deliveries. ISRAEL'S TARGETED KILLINGS IN WEST BANK HOSPITAL MAY HAVE BEEN A WAR CRIME, INDEPENDENT U.N. EXPERTS WARN GENEVA An operation by Israeli security forces who dressed as medics and women to enter a West Bank hospital and killed three Palestinians inside last month may amount to a war crime and violations of international law, independent U.N. human rights experts said Friday. Security camera footage showed about a dozen undercover forces wearing Muslim headscarves, hospital scrubs or white doctors coats as they entered Ibn Sina Hospital in Jenin on Jan. 29. One carried a rifle in one arm and a folded wheelchair in the other. Israels military said forces killed Mohammed Jalamneh, who it said was planning an imminent attack, and brothers Basel and Mohammed Ghazawi, who were allegedly hiding inside the hospital and were involved in attacks. In occupied territory under Israeli control, outside active hostilities, at most Israeli forces may have been entitled to arrest or detain them. They could only use force if strictly necessary to prevent an imminent threat to life or serious injury, the experts said. Instead, Israel chose to murder them, in flagrant violation of their right to life. Under international humanitarian law, they said, killing a defenseless injured patient who is being treated in a hospital amounts to a war crime. Dozens of independent experts work with the United Nations under a mandate from the U.N.s Human Rights Council, but do not represent the world body. The five experts who spoke out Friday focus on issues like terrorism, the right to health and arbitrary execution. The experts called on Israel to investigate the episode in view to prosecuting those responsible and said they would urge the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court to launch a probe if Israel does not carry out a prompt investigation of the killings. NETANYAHU ORDERS MILITARY TO PREPARE EVACUATION PLAN FOR RAFAH'S POPULATION JERUSALEM Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he has ordered the military to prepare a plan to evacuate the population of Rafah before an expected Israeli invasion of the southern Gaza town. Netanyahu made the announcement Friday following international criticism of Israels plan to invade the crowded town on Egypts border. Israel says Rafah is the last remaining Hamas stronghold and it needs to send in troops to complete its war plan against the Islamic militant group. But an estimated 1.5 million Palestinians have crammed into the town after fleeing fighting elsewhere in Gaza. Netanyahu said that a massive operation is needed in Rafah. He said he asked security officials to present a double plan that would include the evacuation of civilians and a military operation to collapse remaining Hamas militant units. RED CROSS CHIEF CALLS FOR MORE AID TO GAZA CAIRO The president of the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said Friday the humanitarian situation in Gaza is the worst she's ever seen and said more aid needs to be deployed to the territory. Kate Forbes this week completed her first official visit to Gaza since taking over the post in December. In my 43 years of working in the humanitarian sector, this is the biggest humanitarian crisis Ive seen, she told the Associated Press in Cairo on Friday. I saw people needing food, water, sanitation issues. ... We need to get humanitarian aid in. Israels war against Hamas in Gaza, sparked by the militant groups Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel, has prompted unprecedented destruction in the tiny coastal enclave and triggered a humanitarian catastrophe that has displaced most of Gazas 2.3 million population and pushed more than a quarter into starvation, according to the U.N. Forbes said that more entry points need to be opened into Gaza to give aid workers more access and that more trucks need to be allowed in. We need to be able to get a greater number of items in than are currently being permitted, she said. Were prepared as an international federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies to gear up to give more aid as soon as possible. Last month, the chiefs of three U.N. agencies, including the World Food Program, UNICEF and the World Health Organization, said Gaza urgently needed more aid or its population would suffer widespread famine and disease. ISRAELI FORCES STORM AL-HAMAL HOSPITAL IN KHAN YOUNIS, PALESTINIAN HUMANITARIAN GROUP SAYS RAFAH, Gaza Strip Israeli forces have stormed the Al-Amal Hospital in Khan Younis in Gaza, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society said Friday. The hospital is home to a few dozen people displaced by the conflict as well as the patients and medical staff. Khan Younis has been the center of the Israeli ground offensive in the past weeks. Earlier this week, the PRCS said that 8,000 displaced people were evacuated from its headquarters in Khan Younis and Al-Amal Hospital. It said only 40 displaced people and around 80 patients and 100 staff members remain in the medical center. The Red Crescent gave no further details about Fridays raid. Hamas leader Yehya Sinwar and the commander of the groups military wing, Mohammed Deif, both grew up in the Khan Younis refugee camp. Israel says the city is a Hamas stronghold. Hospitals in the Gaza Strip have been hard hit by the war. Israel has repeatedly surrounded and raided Gaza hospitals, saying that Hamas uses the facilities as cover for militant operations. The raids have forced many hospitals to close and displaced thousands of patients and people who had been seeking shelter. With humanitarian aid trickling into Gaza, the territorys health care system is suffering from shortages of many medicines. The few hospitals that remain in operation, including Al-Amal, have been overwhelmed with patients and displaced people seeking refuge. UNICEF SAYS ESCALATION IN RAFAH WOULD PUT THOUSANDS MORE CHILDREN AT RISK RAFAH, Gaza Strip The U.N. childrens agency called on all parties to refrain from military escalation in Rafah, at the southern edge of the Gaza Strip, warning that there are more than 600,000 children in the area, some of whom have been displaced more than once since the war began four months ago. UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell said in a statement late Thursday that military escalation in Rafah would mark another devastating turn in a war that has killed over 27,000 people according to health officials in Gaza. She said it could leave thousands more dead through violence or lack of essential services, and further disrupt humanitarian assistance. We need Gazas last remaining hospitals, shelters, markets and water systems to stay functional, Russell said. Without them, hunger and disease will skyrocket, taking more child lives. More than half of the Gaza Strips 2.3 million people have fled to Rafah, heeding Israeli evacuation orders ahead of the militarys expanding ground offensive. Evacuation orders now cover two-thirds of the besieged, tiny enclave. Russell appealed to all parties to the conflict to adhere to their obligations under international humanitarian law, which includes taking the utmost care to spare civilians and civilian infrastructure. ISRAELI STRIKES KILL AT LEAST 22 IN CENTRAL GAZA AND RAFAH RAFAH, Gaza Strip At least 22 people, including children and women, were killed in four Israeli airstrikes overnight into Friday in the central area of the Gaza Strip and in the southern city of Rafah on the border with Egypt, witnesses and hospital officials said. The strikes hit a residential building in Rafah, killing eight people, and a kindergarten-turned-shelter for the displaced in the central town of Zuwaida, killed five. The dead and wounded were taken to nearby hospitals, where bodies were seen by journalists from The Associated Press. A strike killed nine people in Deir al-Balah. More than half of the Gaza Strips 2.3 million people have fled to Rafah, heeding Israeli evacuation orders ahead of the militarys expanding ground offensive. Evacuation orders now cover two-thirds of the tiny besieged enclave. Even in areas of refuge, such as Rafah, Israel routinely launches air strikes against what it says are Hamas targets. It holds the militant group responsible for civilian casualties because it operates from civilian areas. President Joe Biden said Thursday that he considers Israels conduct of the war to be over the top. Israeli ground forces are still focussing on the city of Khan Younis, just north of Rafah, but Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu repeatedly warned this week that Rafah would be next, creating panic among hundreds of thousands of displaced people. Netanyahus words have also alarmed Egypt which has said that any ground operation in the Rafah area or mass displacement across the border would undermine its 40-year-old peace treaty with Israel. The mostly sealed Gaza-Egypt border is also the main entry point for humanitarian aid. Israels 4-month-old air and ground offensive, ignited by a deadly Hamas attack on Oct. 7, has killed over 27,000 Palestinians, driven most people from their homes and pushed a quarter of the population toward starvation. BIDEN CALLS ISRAEL'S RESPONSE OVER THE TOP WASHINGTON President Joe Biden on Thursday called Israels military response in Gaza over the top" and said he continues to work tirelessly to press Israel and Hamas to agree on an extended pause in fighting. I am of the view, as you know, that the conduct of the response in the Gaza Strip has been over the top, Biden told reporters in exchange on Thursday evening after delivering remarks on a special counsel report on his handling of classified documents. Biden added that he continues to push for an extended pause in fighting in Gaza to facilitate the release of the dozens of remaining hostages that were captured during the Oct. 7 attack on Israel. Hamas, however, has demanded that Israel release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners and end the war as part of a hostage deal. Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has refused to agree to those terms. But Biden said he still is hopeful a deal can be worked out that might open a path to ending the war. I am pushing very hard now to deal with this hostage cease-fire, Biden said. Ive been working tirelessly on this deal. How can I say this without revealing to lead to a sustained pause in the fighting in, and the actions taking place, in the Gaza Strip. GASTON COUNTY, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) Sixteen people have been arrested across North Carolina accused of soliciting, sexually exploiting, or abusing children, the NC SBI announced. Gaston County authorities said the multiple arrests are part of Operation Winter Guardian which included 44 local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. Operation Winter Guardian was a two-part initiative in January conducted by the North Carolina Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Student charged after teacher assaulted at Charlotte high school: Police Authorities said Phase 1 of the operation consisted of investigators acting in an undercover capacity online and participating in chats with those seeking to meet children for sexual activity. Some of those individuals then traveled to Gaston County to meet the person they believed to be a child to engage in those sex acts, authorities explained. Phase 2 of the operation involved investigators executing search warrants at several locations throughout North Carolina that were identified as distribution points where child sexual exploitation images were shared. Protecting the children of our community is my highest priority, Gaston County Police Chief Stephen Zill said in a released statement. I take immense pride in the tireless work of our detectives and the collaborative partnerships developed with local police, county, state, and federal agencies to pursue individuals who seek to take advantage of our children. Shoplifters lead police on 90 mph chase from Harrisburg into Charlotte: Sheriff Through these investigations, authorities said at least five children were identified and safeguarded from ongoing sexual abuse. The following individuals have been arrested. Some are local to our area: Gabriel John Yager, 23, Apex, NC : 7 counts of second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor Hunter Ray Fesperman, 21, Hertford, NC : 4 counts of second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor L arry Ray Haskins, 34, Lenoir, NC : Second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor Jubonte Stevenson, 36, New Bern, NC : First-degree statutory sex offense Jonathan Paul Swiney, 43, Asheboro, NC : Second-degree child sexual exploitation of a minor Scott Thomas Wallace, 54, Wilmington, NC : 3 counts of third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor Johnathan Cody McCall, 36, Swansboro, NC : 10 counts of second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor Jamie Tucker, 40, Louisburg, NC : 6 counts of second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor two counts of secret peeping, manufacture schedule VI, PWISO marijuana, and maintaining vehicle/dwelling/place Nicholas Tyler Banks, 22, Burnsville, NC : Second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor, failure to inform of new online identifier and third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor Darryl Edwin Foley, 34, Garner, NC : 7 counts of first-degree sexual exploitation of a minor, 10 counts of second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor, 3 counts of statutory sex offense with a child by an adult, and 2 counts of first-degree statutory rape Carmen Delia Foley, 31, Garner, NC : 13 counts of first-degree sexual exploitation of a minor, 2 counts of statutory sexual offense with a child by an adult, and 2 counts of aid and abetting first-degree statutory rape Lance Skipper, 40, Zebulon, NC : Second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor Barry Glenn Swinson, 74, Randleman, NC: Indecent liberties, solicitation of a child by computer for sex act David Anthony Roux, 35, Charlotte, NC : Indecent liberties Neal David Wilfong, 78, Cleveland, NC : Indecent liberties Zachary Dean Williams, 27, Wadesboro, NC: Indecent liberties, solicitation of a child by computer for a sex act For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. Every year as Valentines Day approaches, people remind themselves that not all expressions of love fit the stereotypes of modern romance. V-Day cynics might plan a Galentines night for female friends or toast their platonic Palentines instead. In other words, the holiday shines a cold light on the limits of our romantic imaginations, which hew to a familiar script. Two people are supposed to meet, the arrows of Cupid strike them unwittingly, and they have no choice but to fall in love. They face obstacles, they overcome them, and then they run into each others arms. Love is a delightful sport, and neither reason nor the gods have anything to do with it. This model of romance flows from Roman poetry, medieval chivalry and Renaissance literature, especially Shakespeare. But as a professor of religion, I study an alternative vision of eros: medieval Christian mystics who viewed the bodys desires as immediately and inescapably linked to God, reason and sometimes even suffering. Yet this way of thinking about love has even older roots. My favorite class to teach traces connections between eros and transcendence, starting with ancient Greek literature. Centuries before Christianity, the Greeks had their own ideas about desire. Erotic love was not a pleasant diversion, but a high-stakes trial to be survived, quivering with perilous energy. These poets and philosophers ideas can stimulate our thinking today and perhaps our loving as well. Deadly serious For the ancient Greeks, eros which could be translated as yearning or passionate desire was a matter of life and death, even a danger to avoid. In the tragedies of Sophocles, when someone feels eros, typically something is about to go terribly wrong, if it hasnt already. Take Antigone, written in Athens in the fifth century B.C.E. The play opens with the title character mourning the death of her brother Polyneices, who betrayed her father and killed her other brother in battle. Joan Maria Grovin stars as Antigone in a 1959 broadcast production in Munich. Klaus Heirler/picture alliance via Getty Images After this civil war, King Creon, Antigones uncle, forbids citizens from burying Polyneices: an insult to his memory, but also a violation of the citys religion. When Antigone insists on burying him anyway, she is condemned to death. The play is often interpreted as a lesson on duty: Creon executing the laws of the state versus Antigone defending the laws of the gods. Yet, uncomfortably for modern readers, Antigones devotion to Polyneices seems to be more than sisterly love. Antigone leaps at the chance to die next to her brother. Loving, I shall lie with him, yes, with my loved one, she swears to her law-abiding sister, when I have dared the crime of piety. Were Polyneices her husband, child, parent or even fiance, Antigone says, she would never have violated the law. But her desire for Polyneices is so great that she is willing to face marriage to Death. She compares the cave where Creon buries her alive with the bedroom on a wedding night. Rather than starve, she hangs herself with her own linen veil. Scholars have asked whether Antigone has too much eros or too little and what exactly she desires. Does she lust for justice? For piety? For her deceased brothers body? Her desire is somehow embodied and otherworldly at the same time, calling our own erotic boundaries into question. Eventually, Creons passion for civic order consumes him as well. His son, Antigones fiance, stabs himself in grief as he embraces her corpse and hearing of this, his mother kills herself as well. Eros races through the royal family like a plague, leveling them all. No wonder the chorus prays to the goddess of love, pleading for protection from her violent whims. Who has you within him is mad, the chorus laments. You twist the minds of the just. Embrace the risk This leads to a second lesson from the Greeks: Love might make you a better person, but it also might not. Rather than speak in his own voice, the philosopher Plato wrote dialogues starring his teacher, Socrates, who had a lot to say about love and friendship. In one dialogue, Lysis, Socrates jokes that if all you want is romantic love, the best plan is to insult your crush until they thirst for attention. In another, Symposium, Socrates young student Phaedrus imagines an indomitable army entirely comprising people in love. What courage and strength they would show off for each other! A mosaic of Plato talking with his pupils, found in the house of T. Siminius in Pompeii. Art Images/Hulton Fine Art Images via Getty Images In the Phaedrus dialogue, foolish lovers seek a friends-with-benefits arrangement, afraid of the unwieldy passions that come with falling in love. Socrates entertains their question: Is it better to separate affection from sexual entanglements, since the force of desire can erode ones ethical principles? His answer is emphatically No. For Socrates, sexual attraction steers the soul toward divine goodness and beauty, just as great art or acts of justice can do. The idea of friends with benefits, he warns, cleaves the ethical self from the erotic self. Here and elsewhere, Plato insists that to be whole people, we must embrace the risks that come with love. A necessary madness Socrates has one more lesson to teach. Erotic love is indeed a kind of madness but a madness necessary for wisdom. In Phaedrus, Socrates suggests that love is a madness given by the gods, a fire blazing like artistic inspiration or sacred rites. Sexual desire disorients us, but only because it is reorienting lovers toward another world. The goal of loving, according to one dialogue, is to catch sight of pure beauty and goodness. In erotic longing we bump up against something greater than us, a thread that we can trace back to the divine. And for Socrates, this pathway from eros to God is reason. In desire, a shimmer of light cracks through the broken crust of the material world, inspiring us to yearn for things that last. The contemporary philosopher Jean-Luc Marion has suggested that modern academic philosophy has totally failed when it comes to the topic of desire. There are vast subfields devoted to the philosophies of language, mind, law, science and mathematics, yet curiously there is no philosophy of eros. Like the ancient Greeks and medieval Christians, Marion warns philosophers against assuming that love is irrational. Far from it. If love looks like madness, he says, thats because it possesses a greater rationality. In the words of another French philosopher, Blaise Pascal: The heart has its reasons, which reason knows nothing of. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: David Albertson, USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences Read more: David Albertson 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. An image of a reclining Lord Vishnu with the alvar poets arrayed below him. The Nadar Press Ltd., Sivakasi, ca. 1920s. From the personal print collection of Archana Venkatesan and Layne Little Valentines Day often revives attention on romantic themes in literature. Stories are cited in media with the aim of helping people navigate the demands of the human heart on a day that has become intimately associated with romantic love. One literary tradition rarely highlighted is that of Hindu bhakti or ecstatic devotion, which birthed some of the most stirring mystical poetry composed in the world. The earliest bhakti poems were composed in Tamil, a classical Indian language, in praise of the two great gods of Hinduism Shiva and Vishnu. While the poet-devotee adopts many attitudes in relation to their chosen deity, one of the most common is the relationship between a human lover and divine beloved. This is especially true in the poems to Vishnu, which I study, where many male poets assume the female voice to express their longing for union with the divine beloved, conceived as male. Poetics of longing The Tamil poet-devotees to Vishnu lived between the sixth and ninth centuries in the Tamil-speaking regions of peninsular India. Because they are in eternal contemplation of Vishnu, they are called the alvar or the Immersed Ones. There are 12 alvar poets, all from different social backgrounds, including one woman, named Kodhai. Much of the alvars poetry reveals an intense longing for a silent and absent god, so much so that it has been called viraha bhakti, or devotion in separation. The love appears, at least as presented by the poet, as completely one-sided sparked by a chance encounter with a mysterious and inscrutable deity. It is an unshakable and transformative love that roots itself deep in the poet. Some male alvar poets adopt the female voice to give full-throated expression to their love for the beautiful male deity Vishnu in all his many forms. The use of a female voice by a male poet is not unusual in the Tamil or Sanskrit literature. But what distinguishes the male bhakti poets female voice is the structure of bhakti poetry itself, where the poet and the voice in the poem are read as identical. Thus, what is in the poem is received by the bhakti traditions as autobiographical accounts of the ups and downs of their desire for a permanent union with the divine beloved. Then, from this perspective, the male poet uses the gender switch to explore bhaktis emotional terrain, particularly as an embodied and physical love for god. In the words of a 13th century commentator, the poet chooses his own voice in the fleeting moments of union, but the female voice in the endless time in separation. Images of alvar poets in Ninra Narayana Perumal temple in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Ssriram mt/ Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA These male poets deploy the full range of archetypal female characters that populate Tamil classical love poetry the heroine, her mother, her friend and the fortuneteller from the hills to describe their love for Vishnu. To this cast of characters, the poets also occasionally use, as Kodhai herself does, mythological female figures. The cowherd women of the wondrous town of Vrindavan, where the youthful divine Krishna is eternally at play, is a particular favorite for the alvar poets. Male poets and female voice of longing Two ninth century alvar poets, Nammalvar and Tirumankai, are particularly deft in their use of these female voices of longing. Their heroine dominates their poems; her tone in turns demanding, insistent and despairing as she seeks through language to call the absent divine beloved back to her. To do this, she vividly describes the mesmerizing beauty of the god, manifesting him before her in words, when she cant have him in an embodied form. Simultaneously, she describes the agonizing effects of her love, hoping the god will show compassion toward her. In one such verse, Nammalvar, in the voice of a lovelorn heroine, says: Worse than the fiercest fire is the fine powdered darkness of night the tall chariot of the beautiful sun doesnt appear, my beloved, his eyes bright as lotus-blooms, does not come Who can end my hearts grief? I dissolve to nothing. (Tiruvaymoli, V.4.9.) If the heroine provides a catalog of her lovesickness, the additional voices of mothers, friends and fortunetellers comment on it. They are the outside observers of the external manifestation of the heroines and the poets own inner turmoil and desperate desire for union with the divine. Love in many shades Not all the male alvar poets use one of these archetypal female voices, and a female voice does not always have to speak about romantic love. Some poets such as the late eighth-to-ninth century Kulasekhara Alvar adopt the persona of the doting mother of the Hindu Gods Krishna or Rama, who is also considered an avatara of Vishnu. In these guises, they sing lullabies to him, adorn him and imagine, like mothers do, a magnificent future for their child. These poems are not composed from the vantage of separation; rather, they are poems of intimacy and joy, celebrating maternal love. There is, however, one exception to these joyful maternal poems. In a wrenching set of 10 verses in his poem Perumal Tirumoli, Kulashekara Alvar speaks in the voice of Devaki, Krishnas birth mother, who is forced to give him up to protect his life. In these 10 verses, the poet as Devaki laments the misfortune that prevented her from raising her son, juxtaposing her inconsolable grief with the immeasurable joy of Krishnas foster mother, Yashoda. In the poems of the alvar, love, directed toward Vishnu, takes many forms: humble service; unconditional, protective maternal adoration; and the intense intimacy of lovers. Composed from the vantage of separation and rendered in the female voices of women mothers and abandoned lovers these poems offer a unique understanding of the mysterious bond that exists between god and his dearest devotees. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Archana Venkatesan, University of California, Davis Read more: Archana Venkatesan receives funding from the American Institute of Indian Studies in the form of a four-month short-term Senior Fellowship (June-Sept 30, 2024) to conduct field research in Tamil Nadu, India. In 1986, the San Francisco Chinese New Year Festival and Parade, one of the largest Lunar New Year celebrations in the U.S., added an unofficial secondary description to its culturally specific title Lunar New Year as a nod to inclusivity. The addition, attuned to the mood of the time, aimed to reflect the diversity of the community, said Wayne Hu, a former parade director. Other U.S. cities and celebrations did the same. Now, many individual cultural celebrations like the Vietnamese Tet, the Korean Seollal and other spring festivals are united under one umbrella term Lunar New Year. Since the first event organized by the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in 1953, the San Francisco Chinese New Year Festival and Parade has always been a Chinese American celebration, with a mission to promote cultural tourism in the citys Chinatown, said Hu, the parades director from 1986 to 2010. Using the Lunar New Year is the extension of our celebrations which recognizes our Bay Area Asian community, said Hu. But more importantly, demonstrates that this is a San Francisco Bay Area celebration that includes all. The San Francisco event represents the tension that many organizers face how to maintain cultural integrity while also acknowledging other cultures that celebrate the same holiday. In the name of inclusivity, what happens to individual cultural festivals? Michelle Ngo hangs her wish on the wishing tree at the 41st Union of The Vietnamese Student Association Tet Festival at the Orange County Fair & Events Center in Costa Mesa, Calif., last year. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images file) Why Lunar New Year is most closely associated with Chinese culture Many Asian countries use the lunisolar calendar, which tracks the cycle of the moons phases, to mark the start of a new year and the arrival of spring. This year, the holiday starts on Feb. 10. To reflect the diversity of the community, the San Francisco Chinese New Year Festival and Parade welcomes different cultural performers, said Harlan Wong, the events current director. This year, Japanese taiko drummers will perform at the Feb. 24 parade. David Lei, a board member of the Chinese Historical Society of America, says that while he supports the spirit of inclusivity, it also raises a question: What do non-Lunar New Year performances add to a decidedly Chinese New Year parade? People come to see the firecrackers and the floats that tell stories about hope, aspiration and auspiciousness for the coming year, said Lei, a historian and longtime parade participant. The first Chinese New Year in the U.S. and the reason Lunar New Year is often associated with Chinese culture can be traced through immigation history. The first wave of Chinese immigrants in the mid-1800s brought with them their homelands traditions, including how to welcome the new year. At first, their new years celebrations were likely insular small parties, said Lei. In 1871, Belleville, New Jersey the first East Coast Chinese community hosted one of the first recorded Chinese new year celebrations, complete with fireworks. New year celebrations were a way to invite the community to Chinese enclaves and demystify the perception of foreignness, said Hu. Because many Americans have experienced the holiday through Chinatowns, associating the holiday with one culture makes sense. Its just not completely accurate. Many different Asian countries celebrate the same holiday, including Indonesia andMalaysia. In Singapore, the new year celebration is a national public holiday that allows for time off school and work. In Asia, each country celebrates its own national holiday without the need to acknowledge other cultures. Does a broad umbrella term flatten individual celebrations? In the U.S., recognition of Lunar New Year continues to grow. Yet, without the resonance of national recognition, communities, cities and organizations are left with the responsibility of carving out their own celebrations. Celebrating the Lunar New Year in the U.S. is important, albeit on a smaller scale, said Tri Chan Tran, a professor of Vietnamese and linguistics at the University of California, Irvine. Because it shows that the diaspora wants to be connected with their roots and cultures, which they want to preserve, he said. Lunar New Year is an umbrella term that can expand and embrace different cultural celebrations of the holiday. But can the broadened term flatten individual celebrations? According to Tran, using Lunar New Year is a sign of respect, linguistically and culturally, to all the different countries that celebrate the holiday. But he said its also OK to celebrate individually. If its a Chinese community celebrating, it makes sense to refer to the celebration as Chinese New Year, said Tran. Likewise for Tet for the Vietnamese New Year. This year, the USC Pacific Asia Museum in Pasadena, California, is celebrating the new year with a slate of Korean, Chinese, Vietnamese and Thai performances. Annie Tram, co-chair of the Tet Festival in Costa Mesa, California, says recognizing the importance of the Lunar New Year lends more recognition to other ethnicities as well. Each culture still has their own special uniqueness, said Tram. But it all falls under the same umbrella of like we all want the same thing. Togetherness, wellness and good fortune are unifying themes across most Lunar New Year celebrations. The Tet Festival is organized by the Union of Vietnamese Student Association to celebrate their Vietnamese heritage. To call it anything else would be inaccurate, according to Tram. At the three-day event, one of the attractions will be a replica of a Vietnamese village. The idea is that once you walk through the gate, you feel like youre transported back to Vietnam, said Tram. To celebrate the new year, experts say, we dont have to settle for a scarcity mindset. We can celebrate individual cultures. We can unite. And, yes, there is space for both to exist. Absolutely, said Tran. I think its a smart move. For more from NBC Asian America, sign up for our weekly newsletter. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Bennion Junior High Schools Chinese Culture Club members perform a Lion dance during the annual Tourism Day on the Hill at the Capitol in Salt Lake City on Friday, Feb. 9, 2024. | Laura Seitz, Deseret News Lunar New Year will be celebrated on Feb. 10 this year, launching the year of the dragon. Heres information on what Lunar New Year is and how its celebrated. History of Lunar New Year The Lunar New Year holiday is an annual tradition that has been celebrated for thousands of years. It marks the beginning of the new year on the Chinese calendar, per National Geographic. The Chinese calendar was once known as the lunisolar calendar, because the moon and the sun determined the dates. A new month began when there was a new moon, according to National Geographic. This year is the year of the dragon, which is one of the animals from the Chinese zodiac calendar. An animal is assigned to a year based on a 12-year cycle represented by 12 different animals, in this order: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig, per CNN. According to National Geographic, the Lunar New Year festival is a two-week celebration that originated in China but has spread to other countries in Asia. In China, Lunar New Year has been rebranded as the Spring Festival, but in other countries such as South Korea, Vietnam and Malaysia it is still called Lunar New Year. Common traditions for Lunar New Year Clean out the bad luck One of the most important aspects of Lunar New Year festivities starts the week before Lunar New Year. Thats when participants clean their houses thoroughly. It is believed that taking this step will clear out all the bad luck that accumulated the previous year, per National Geographic. Keep Nian away Another important characteristic of Lunar New Year is the incorporation of the color red. According to CNN, there is a myth about a powerful creature called a Nian that wanted to destroy a village. While everyone evacuated, an old man passing through refused to leave the village. When everyone came back, they were shocked to see the old man and the village unscathed. In the myth, the old man claims that it was his red clothes, firecrackers and decorative red banners that kept Nian away. And so, the tradition of wearing something red, lighting firecrackers and decorating your house in red banners began. It continues to this day. Red is also associated with joy and good luck in Chinese culture, so communities can often be found using red paint and red decorations, per National Geographic. Get ready for chunyun, aka the biggest human migration ever As Lunar New Year has spread across the globe, so has its themes of family reunion and hope. Chunyun, meaning spring migration, is when billions of people travel back to their hometowns and other locations to celebrate Lunar New Year, per National Geographic. It has caused a lot of transportation problems in the past. In 2016, more than 100,000 people were stuck at a train station in China due to chunyun, per Smithsonian Magazine. Red packets full of money Depending on which country youre celebrating in, the red packets of money that go along with Lunar New Year festivities will be called by different names. But the concept is the same. CNN explains that the red packets are given by married couples to children and single adults. They believe that this will protect the receiver from an evil spirit known as a sui. The variations of Lunar New Year In Malaysia Malaysians participate in what is known as yeesang, meaning prosperity toss, per CNN, when everyone tosses a specific piece of food up into the air. Each piece of food has a specific meaning, such as white radishes representing growth and fortune. In Korea Koreans prepare what is known as sliced rice cake soup (tteokguk), symbolizing the importance of starting the new year with a clean mind and body, per History. They also have a tradition of giving money in packets, but instead of giving it to unmarried people, they give money to their elders in a special white envelope. It is a time for them to honor their ancestors, according to National Geographic. In Vietnam Flowers play an important role in the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. Instead of using red banners and decorations like the Chinese, the Vietnamese instead use a variety of flowers like peach blossoms, orchids or even a kumquat tree to decorate their homes, per History. The Vietnamese will also honor their ancestors by preparing a special dish called a five-fruit platter and sharing it with guests. In the United States San Francisco hosts the largest Chinese New Year parade outside of China. Known as the Chinese New Year Festival and Parade, it claims to be one of the only night-illuminated parades in North America. The tradition started in the 1860s when immigrants from China wanted to share their culture with Americans and now has up to 3 million spectators from around the globe. When I first journeyed to Vietnam at the age of 22, fresh out of college over two decades ago, the romantic allure of Hanoi captivated me. My arrival coincided with the Mid-Autumn Festival, a time when the atmosphere in the capital city felt celebratory, mirroring my exhilaration of being abroad. That autumn I met a host of new friends: Vietnamese Americans like myself; other expats who were taking time off to travel; and acquaintances determined to build their lives in Hanoi. Yet I felt suspended in a liminal space not quite a foreigner, not fully Vietnamese but an overseas Vietnamese ("Viet Kieu"), grappling with identity. A few months after my arrival, the atmosphere of Tet, the Lunar New Year and the most important holiday for Vietnamese people, created a certain quietude that felt rather joyful. In reality, I had to experience several Tet celebrations in Vietnam to fully grasp the essence of the holiday and my personal ties to both the country and the tradition. Prior to my time in Vietnam, the country and its cultural heritage held minimal personal relevance, beyond the basic knowledge that my parents were from there. Unknowingly following my father's past Many local friends suggested that Tet might be dull and boring for "foreigners." The normally bustling city shut down for two weeks as people prepared for the celebrations, and a common response from Vietnamese people was that nothing could happen until after Tet. Although the streets of Hanoi were adorned with blooming "hoa dao" (peach flower) trees sold on the backs of motorbikes, my perception of Tet became skewed: I viewed it as a time when the city paused and foreigners vacationed. Celebrating Tet, Vietnamese for Lunar New Year, with a dragon dance in Southern California in 2023. That year, 2003, following friends suggestions, I traveled south to Saigon and the regional beaches, unknowingly being led to places intertwined with my father's past. He was born in Saigon, spent time in Vung Tau with his grandmother on a longan orchard during his childhood, and as a military physician was stationed in Phu Quoc during the war's final month which, fortuitously, facilitated his escape from Vietnam when Saigon fell on April 30, 1975. Fall of Saigon: Half a century later, the ghost of South Vietnam still haunts my family After spending months in refugee camps, my father eventually settled in Connecticut, where I was born in 1979. My mother passed away when I was 14. And I've recently gotten to know my father better through writing a book with him, "My Vietnam, Your Vietnam: A Father Flees. A Daughter Returns. A Dual Memoir. I understood my father's Vietnam primarily through his writings. We were both guilty of not delving deeper into family history and cultural traditions with each other. He never shared, and I never asked. In an excerpt of one his books, he fondly reminisced about Tet in Saigon: According to Asian customs, everyone was one year older on the Lunar New Year. This explains why Tet was such a big holiday in Viet Nam. This was the busiest time of the year for local tailors, who worked overtime to complete their customers orders. Houses were cleaned, broken doors and windows were fixed. New curtains were made, and all the chandeliers and silver were polished. This was the time to settle all debts, as they could bring bad luck for the upcoming year. Christina Vo's parents, Evelyne and Nghia Vo, at their wedding in Saigon, South Vietnam, in 1972. Celebrating Tet then in Vietnam and now in the Southwest My subsequent returns to Vietnam as an adult, twice more to work in Hanoi, brought a deeper appreciation of the country and traditions such as Tet. One year, a Vietnamese friend invited me to select a Tet tree for her family with her. We walked the streets attempting to find the perfect one that would bloom precisely at the peak of Tet. I cherished the serene atmosphere of Tet in Hanoi and the absence of incessant sounds of motorbikes. The city and my heart felt calm. Opinion alerts: Get columns from your favorite columnists + expert analysis on top issues, delivered straight to your device through the USA TODAY app. Don't have the app? Download it for free from your app store. Gradually, Tet gained a special place in my heart, surpassing even the winter holidays back in the United States. Hanoi, even more so than any U.S. city, became a place I called home. My colleagues called me by my Vietnamese name, Tuyet (meaning snow). I avoided saying it in America because it sounded like twit." When I returned to Hanoi for the second time for a full-time position at UNICEF, one colleague said to me, Welcome back, Tuyet. I knew you would return. Finding home in Hanoi: Learning about their past in Vietnam helps kids see beyond legacy of war In hindsight, I wish my father had instilled a deeper appreciation of Tet and our Vietnamese culture within our family. Yet, I comprehend his rationale. Perhaps he thought the beauty of this Vietnamese holiday and the depth of our collective history and story would be lost on us in the small predominantly white towns we resided in. Only through returning to Vietnam, and finding my place there, could I truly understand and experience the essence of Tet a celebration intrinsically linked to my heritage, running deep within my blood, and yet, only by living there could I actually feel it in my bones. Christina Vo Today, although I reside in a small town in the Southwest, the spirit of Tet still resonates within me. Theres supposed to be a fresh blanket of snow Saturday, bringing a sense of calmness, peace and hope in the dawn of the first day of the Year of the Dragon. This snow also brings me a sense of pride for my namesake, Tuyet. To celebrate, Ill surround myself with a close-knit circle of Vietnamese American and Asian American friends for the Tet holiday: those of us who share a common thread living here, yet harboring a deep connection to another place we also call home, a place like Vietnam. Christina Vo is the co-author of "My Vietnam, Your Vietnam: A Father Flees. A Daughter Returns. A Dual Memoir." Follow her on Instagram @stina_vo and Facebook: facebook.com/stina.vo, or find her at christinavo.com You can read diverse opinions from our Board of Contributors and other writers on the Opinion front page, on Twitter @usatodayopinion and in our daily Opinion newsletter. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Year of the Dragon brings me hope: What I've learned celebrating Tet Secession talk an insult to nation As a disabled American veteran, I strongly agree with Bud Kennedy when he writes that the idea of Texas seceding from the United States is not heroic, nor is it patriotic. (Jan. 12, 1C, Is Confederate Heroes Day part of slow secession for Texas?) Why do secessionist Texans so despise our nation? This country literally fought a war over this. The South lost. My experiences in Columbus, Georgia, while stationed at Fort Benning (now Fort Moore) tell me economic secession might hurt Texas deservedly. - J. Eric Peters, Benbrook Look at the real power numbers It was very refreshing to read Andrea Hitts column about electricity production. (Feb. 4, 5C, Solar and wind didnt fuel Texas during cold snap) Cherry-picking times and numbers to support renewables or dispatchables does not supply the electric grid with power. What are the real numbers? Hitt brings the reality to the front of the conversation, and both sides should study the figures. I lean toward dispatchable energy but would really like to know if any renewables have supported the energy grid in times of true need. - Jerry May, Fort Worth Fossil fuel biz fearmongers Renewable energy is the way to go. Nuclear energy is our short-term, immediate solution to provide power while reducing greenhouse gases. People are afraid of nuclear energy because they dont understand it, and the fossil-fuel industry fans the flames of that fear to keep profits high. I hope a better battery-storage system will be available soon to store more renewable energy. We must save the Earth, and reducing greenhouse gases is a big step in the right direction. - Chris Brashear, Dallas Electricity cant do all we need Andrea Hitts opinion piece on wind and solar shortfalls was spot-on. Renewables will never provide enough power for a state the size of Texas. The expenditures are overwhelming, and the results are costly in American lives. Further, if natural gas is abandoned for cooking and unreliable electric cars are jammed down peoples throats, the demand for electricity will continue to expand far beyond the current capacity. Stop the irrationality. - Renee Bridges, Austin Dont care what he has to say I cannot think of a less credible person to advise the GOP than Eugene Robinson. (Jan. 31, 15A, To save the GOP, vote for destruction in November) The ultra-liberal columnist calls the Republican Party a cult while ignoring the woke and undemocratic actions of his own party. Democrats seek to diminish our constitutional rights and somehow guarantee happiness through socialistic means rather than create a culture of personal responsibility. The Democratic Party of my youth could be reestablished if it rejects the liberal thinking of Robinson and adopts the principles of our founders. Otherwise, I support the party that is committed to making America great again. - Kenneth M. Ken Sapp, Granbury Voters, use your voices loudly I am a 66-year-old conservative Reagan Republican and have been all my life. I will not vote for an insurrectionist such as Donald Trump or for Ted Cruz, nor will I support the current leadership in Austin. But Ive never voted for a Democrat and wont this time. It is time we the people send a message to the two dysfunctional political parties that what they are offering is unacceptable. If not now, when? - William Allison, Conroe Valentines Day can be a sensitive time, especially for those who have recently faced a difficult breakup. Here are some positive ways to get back at your ex | Marah Bashir, Unsplash If youre feeling a little cynical this Valentines Day, dont worry: There are several companies offering opportunities to resolve your anger toward an ex while also benefitting the natural world. Eco-friendly toilet paper company Who Gives A Crap recently announced the return of its Flush Your Ex campaign, which celebrates Valentines Day by turning old love letters into toilet paper. Related Back by popular demand, were once again turning your exs empty promises into something useful this Valentines Day: 100% recycled toilet paper! the website reads. Because nothing says closure like knowing that someone, somewhere is putting those sweet nothings exactly where they belong. A TikTok posted by the company elaborates that this can include any cursed paper reminders of your ex, so first date receipts and marriage certificates are also fair game. The company states that it isnt interested in reading the letters, but that people are free to scribble out any identifying information on the letters before sending them in. Any letters received before Feb. 29 are guaranteed to become toilet paper, although consumers wont be able to know exactly which roll it becomes. Those within the United States can mail their unwanted love letters to Who Gives A Crap at the following address: Second Home/Who Gives A Crap Inc Attn: Flush Your Ex 1370 N. St Andrews Place Los Angeles, CA 90028 Another way to get back at your ex without breaking any laws is to participate in San Antonio Zoos Cry Me A Cockroach program, which allows you to name a cockroach, veggie or rat that will then be fed to a zoo animal. Be part of the global sensation and ex-terminate your past and support a noble cause with the Cry Me a Cockroach Fundraiser, the zoos website reads. Symbolically name a roach, rat, or veggie after your ex or not-so-special someone and San Antonio Zoo will help squash your past, a true heartbreak healer, by feeding your selection to an animal resident. Naming a cockroach will set you back $10, while veggies cost $5 and rodents $25. CNN reports there is an upgrade available: For the price of $150, the zoo will send your ex a personalized video message showing the cockroach, veggie or rat named after them as they are eaten by zoo animals. The fundraiser benefits the zoo, feeds animals and provides a positive outlet for those looking to express their negative emotions toward an ex. Anyone who makes a donation will also receive a digital Valentines Day card. If youd prefer your revenge against an ex to benefit animals not destined to become dinner, a New Jersey animal shelter is offering a Neuter Your Ex special. For $50, Homeward Bound Pet Adoption Center will name a feral cat after your ex and have it spayed or neutered. Because some things shouldnt breed, reads the specials tagline. The center runs a trap-neuter-return program for feral cat population control. Every person who donates will receive a picture of the feral cat named after their ex and can rest assured that the cat will be taken care of before being released back into its colony. There is also an option to notify someone if a donation has been made in their honor. Donated! The real guy deserves to be neutered, but a cat with his name will do, one commenter said on the centers Instagram page. Whether youve recently gone through a breakup or are still steaming from wounds left by an old flame, these are just a few ways to channel your anger in a way that makes a positive impact. Happy Valentines Day! A man who lived within walking distance of an area on the east side of Indianapolis where police found two women's bodies days apart has been charged in their killings. David Hiner, 30, is charged with two counts of murder in the deaths of Marianne Weis and Shannon Lassere. After an investigation that detectives say topped more than 100 hours, Hiner was taken into custody Tuesday. Hiner denied his involvement when questioned by police. Investigators determined both women died from multiple sharp force injuries to the neck, according to police, which signaled a connection. Indianapolis police investigate Marianne Weis' death in the 2100 block of North Mitthoefer Road on Feb. 1, 2024. Lassere was the first to be found. Her body was located in a parking lot behind businesses in the 2200 block of North Mitthoefer Road. Detectives said she was likely attacked closer to the road and dragged roughly 12 feet by her arms to the parking lot. Five days later, on Feb. 1, police were called to the rear of a Dollar General store a few yards from where Lassere's body was discovered after someone noticed Weis' body and alerted the clerk, who called 911. Both women were found face down with their pants around their knees, which police believe was caused by them being dragged, court documents state. Police and court documents did not mention whether the women were sexually assaulted. Detectives collected a significant amount of video from businesses in the area, according to a news release from police and prosecutors. Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Acting Chief Christopher Bailey speaks with media Friday, Feb. 9, 2024, during a press conference to give an update on the recent Mitthoefer Road killings. David Hiner, 30, is charged with two counts of murder in the deaths of Marianne Weis and Shannon Lassere. Hiner was taken into custody Tuesday. Multiple videos showed a man and Weis together in the area behind the Dollar General on the night of her death. Weis, who was homeless, frequently stopped by a pub in the same strip mall. On the night of Jan. 31, she was seen leaving down the alley with a man, concerning other women seated on a back patio. The women asked Weis if she knew the man and if she was alright, to which she replied, "He's OK, he's family," and walked away, witnesses told detectives. Detectives canvassed various parts of the east side looking for the unidentified man from the video and determined Hiner as a person of interest. The next day detectives executed a search warrant on the apartment where Hiner was staying with family, located adjacent to where the bodies were discovered. Police found shoes in the apartment that appeared to have dried blood on them as well as jeans soaking in bleach in a bucket in the bathtub. The shoes were sent to a lab for expedited DNA analysis, according to the news release. Detectives needed additional time for DNA results before an arrest could be made. They learned Hiner was on probation out of La Porte County, Indiana. A probation violation was filed, and a warrant was issued for Hiners arrest. He has remained in custody since then, according to the news release. Preliminary DNA analysis of blood from the shoes matched with blood of both victims, police said. A motive has not been determined. "No one deserves what these two women experienced," said acting Indianapolis police chief, Chris Bailey. "This was brutal and evil." Past reporting: IMPD investigating 'similarities' after two women found dead near Mitthoefer Road days apart Shannon Juanita Lassere, 58 Shannon Juanita Lassere Jan. 27: Officers found Shannon Juanita Lassere, 58, suffering trauma at 9:20 a.m. in a parking lot at 2200 N. Mitthoefer Road after responding to a call about a person down. On the day before her funeral, Justin Smith remembered his mother as a caretaker. She took the simplest things, made them her priority and made it her love, Smith said. Whether it was cleaning, taking care of the kids, taking care of the dogs. It was the simplest things but she put a lot of love into it. The mother of four children and grandmother to 15 lived down the street from where she was found and had gone to the gas station for cigarettes the evening before her body was found. We thought she would come right back, Smith said. Lassere was hard of hearing, which may have made her an easy target for her killed, loved ones said. "She was harmless, Smith said. They could have taken whatever they wanted from her, and she couldn't have put up a fight. Whoever it was is a monster. The disregard for life. I don't understand it." When Smith realized his mother hadnt returned from the gas station, he called his older sister and they started looking for her. When detectives said they wanted to speak with the family in person, they knew something was wrong. Lassere had lived in Indianapolis since around 2004. She had been living with Smith for about the past four years. Smith remembers how his mother wanted to care for him like he was still a child. "She would come into our room unannounced, pick up clothes, pick up the dishes and stuff like that," Smith said. "It was frustrating at times, but I loved every bit of it and I miss every second of it. Lassere was a mother to everyone she came across, including the black and white dog named Oreo that the family took in off the street. Over the years, she cared for neighbors and family friends, one of the womans best friends, Angela Johnson, said. "Shannon was just full of life, said Johnson, who drove up from Kansas City to support the family. She had a spirit about her and was a beacon of light that drew everybody to her. She always wanted people smiling and laughing. She never lost that childhood innocence about her." Marianne Weis, 52 Marianne Weis Feb. 1: Police responded just before 11 a.m. to the 2100 block of North Mitthoefer Road, near its intersection with East 21st. Street, to a 911 call about a person down near a back road. Officer William Young with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department said in the hours after finding her body, police expanded their search in the immediate area, bordering an apartment complex and strip mall, looking for clues into the killings. Weis was known to carry stuffed animals, which she told people made her feel safe because she was living on the streets. Police found those stuffed animals and a black knit balaclava-style hood stained with blood in a residential garbage can near where she was found. Family and friends of Weis either declined or did not respond to interview requests from IndyStar, but several people posted on social media with messages that Weis was loved and would not be forgotten. "Anybody who knew you knows what a true angel you are and now you have your wings," one post read. David Hiner recently released from prison According to police, Hiner has been on probation since September of last year. Indiana Department of Correction records indicate he's spent the past 10 years in prison for an aggravated battery charge out of La Porte County. Contact Jake Allen at jake.allen@indystar.com. Follow him on Twitter @Jake_Allen19. IndyStar reporter Sarah Nelson can be contacted at sarah.nelson@indystar.com This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indiana man charged in killings of two women in Indianapolis ELMIRA, N.Y. (WETM) A man was arrested on Tuesday following a domestic incident where police say he was found with a stolen weapon. According to Elmira Police, Leroy A. Weekes was arrested on Tuesday, Feb. 6, on the following charges: Criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree, a class C felony Criminal possession of stolen property in the fourth degree, a class E felony Menacing in the second degree, a class A misdemeanor Assault in the third degree, a class A misdemeanor Criminal possession of a controlled substance, a class A misdemeanor Elementary school heavily damaged after Ithaca police pursuit Police say officers went to a home in the 500 block of Park Place on Tuesday around 7:48 p.m. for a domestic incident. Police were able to find Weekes where they say officers found him with a Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard .380 handgun. After an investigation, police determined that the weapon was stolen, with Weekes being arrested at the scene. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com. A man who forgot he bought Michigan lottery tickets walked around with them in his wallet for days even as the whole town talked about the big winner that was sold at the same store he purchased the ticket from. Gregory DiFranks matched the Fantasy 5 numbers in the states Jan. 30 drawing, Michigan Lottery officials said in a Feb. 9 news release. The 63-year-old Lake Orion man bought the ticket at the Orion Market while he grabbed a few other items, officials said. The next day, I was at my local bar, and someone asked where Orion Market was because they had sold a big winner, DiFranks said in the release. I forgot Id purchased tickets, so I didnt think much of it. He came across the tickets a few days later as he sorted through his wallet, officials said. He took them to a store to scan them for a prize, and one of the Fantasy 5 tickets indicated he should file a claim at the lottery office. The person working scanned the ticket on the Lottery app for me and said: You have the big winner! he said. I called my wife and told her I was on my way home and I had big news to tell her! DiFranks plans to use some of his $140,964 prize on a trip to Mexico and save whatever is leftover, he told officials at lottery headquarters as he claimed his winnings. Ive been playing the Lottery since it began, so it feels amazing to hit it big, he said. Each Fantasy 5 ticket is $1, and for another $1 per play, EZmatch is added to the ticket, which gives players a chance to win up to $500, officials said. Players can add Double Play for another $1, which gives them a second chance to win up to $110,000 in the nightly Double Play drawing. Drawings are held every day, officials said. Players choose five numbers between one and 39. Players who match all five numbers win a jackpot that starts at $100,000, officials said. DiFranks winning numbers were 05-09-17-31-39. Lake Orion is about 35 miles north of downtown Detroit. Check your numbers: $36 million lottery ticket sold at Florida Publix about to expire Lottery player wakes up wife to confirm win in Michigan. It all still feels surreal Lottery player gets phone call about Michigan jackpot win. I thought it was a scam KALAMAZOO, Mich. (WOOD) A man has been charged with assault after police say he stabbed a K-9 while officers tried to arrest him. Frederic Allan Walker, 49, was charged Thursday with seriously injuring a police animal, home invasion, criminal sexual conduct, two charges of assault with a dangerous weapon and assaulting, resisting or obstructing a police officer. The charges stem from Tuesday evening when he threatened officers with a box cutter and stabbed a K-9 named Sledge with the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety multiple times in the throat. A woman told News 8 she had called police to the scene because Walker was threatening her neighbor. Sledge was rushed to Byron Center Animal Emergency and Specialty Hospital, where veterinarians were waiting to help him. The dog lost 40% of his blood and after five hours in the hospital, the 4-year-old Dutch shepherd walked out on his own four legs and went home with his handler. Walker was treated at the hospital for injuries to his arm caused by Sledge, KDPS said. He is scheduled to be back in court on Feb. 22 for a probable cause hearing. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. The criminal case against a man who ignited a conflagration that decimated a historic Isleton restaurant and marina in 2022 wrapped up this week after he reached a plea deal. Smoke billowing from the Moores Riverboat Restaurant and Marina and its docks could be seen five miles away as firefighters with the River Delta Fire District and Isleton Fire Department arrived on July 6, 2022. Fire chewed through at least three boats and reduced the marina to rubble, according to The Sacramento Bees previous reporting. A sprawling investigation conducted by the River Delta Fire District, Cosumnes Fire Department, Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Sacramento County Sheriffs Office for months pinpointed two suspects accused of arson that caused $1 million in damage. The second suspect taken into custody, who was arrested in February 2023, pleaded no contest Tuesday to a felony arson charge, the Sacramento District Attorneys Office said. Rolly Byrd, 49, was sentenced to two years of time served, according to the District Attorneys Office. He was released from jail Wednesday, online jail records show. Byrd is required to register his name on the California arson registry, a list that is provided to law enforcement. The first arrested suspect, Wyatt Tripp, faced arson, conspiracy to commit arson and numerous weapons charges soon after the incident. A Sacramento Superior Court judge deemed there wasnt enough evidence to hold an arson charge against him and dismissed it in April, according to the Sacramento County District Attorneys Office. Tripp pleaded no contest to two counts of possessing a firearm and two counts of possessing ammunition as a felon he faced for an incident unrelated to the fire. He was sentenced to 16 months in prison for these charges. A man who was critically injured in a house fire in Wilmington's Trolley Square neighborhood last month has died, the city's Fire Department said Friday. The man, who has not yet been identified, was pulled from the first floor of the home a little after 2 p.m. on Jan. 24. Firefighters responded to the two-story row house, located in the 1700 block of W. 14th St., after receiving a 911 call about the blaze. When first responders arrived, they found "heavy smoke" coming from the home, the Wilmington Fire Department said. While flames were contained to the first floor, the second floor sustained heat and smoke damage. END OF AN ERA: Last Kirlin firefighter retires after family serves Wilmington for over 100 years After being rescued from the home, the man was rushed to Christiana Hospital. The Fire department did not say when he died from his injuries. Fire investigators continue to work to determine where and how the fire started. Got a tip? Send to Isabel Hughes at ihughes@delawareonline.com or 302-324-2785. For all things breaking news, follow her on X at @izzihughes_ This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Man dies weeks after being pulled from Trolley Square house fire Protesters hold up signs during an abortion-rights rally on June 25, 2022 in Austin, Texas. The Supreme Court's decision in Dobbs v Jackson Women's Health overturned the landmark 50-year-old Roe v Wade case and erased a federal right to an abortion. Sergio Flores/Getty Images The political season is underway as many Americans continue to stay divided on issues such as immigration, culture wars and reproductive rights. While Republicans double down on immigration and Democrats on abortion rights, a new political action committee is aiming to unseat Texas Supreme Court judges Jane Bland, John P. Devine and Jimmy Blacklock as the November election season dawns near. Gina Ortiz Jones, who served as assistant secretary for the Air Force is the founder of the new Find Out PAC, which aims to unseat the Texas Supreme Court seats up for re-election this year who voted against reproductive care for women in Texas. Ortiz recently went on MSNBC claiming being a woman in Texas is more dangerous in part because of the decisions of the Texas Supreme Court. Her efforts to create the committee were spearheaded after headlines swept the country on a Texas woman named Kate Cox, who tested the changes in abortion laws within the state. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Coxs fetus suffered a fatal genetic condition that posed a severe risk to her health and a low survival rate for her unborn child. While a lower court allowed Cox to have the abortion, the Texas Supreme Court halted the lower courts ruling. Cox, who was 20 weeks pregnant, sparked a nationwide response, especially when Attorney General Ken Paxton sent a message to hospitals and doctors that if they conducted the procedure in Texas, they would be subject to prosecution. Cox ultimately chose not to wait on an answer from her appeal to the court and left Texas due to time being of the essence and had the procedure in a state where having an abortion is legal. Texas lawmaker Jasmine Crocket is using her power and new popularity status as a Democratic congresswoman to support Ortiz's efforts. Crockett has been outspoken on her political views on Texas politics and the need for change in the state and stated in a recent interview that the abortion law language in Texas is vague for a reason to create chaos and confusion, and that chaos and confusion results in casualties among women where many will not have the resources to leave the state like Cox did in her case. A man lured women into helping him make TikTok videos before exposing himself through his pajama pants, Michigan deputies say. Monroe county deputies reported a Feb. 5 incident in which Avery Williams, 24, exposed himself after asking a woman in a Frenchtown Township department store to film a TikTok video with him. When she tried to flee, he assaulted her, the sheriffs office said in a news release. Nearly a dozen other women have come forward to share similar stories about Williams, WTVG reported. Dawn Evans described a similar scenario to WXYZ involving Williams asking her to film a TikTok video in a store. As he turned around, his genitals were hanging out of his pajama pants, she told WXYZ. They have a slit in them, in his underwear still, but hanging out. I said, No, thank you. And I turned around and I just walked away, . Evans was arrested and charged with two counts of criminal sexual conduct and one count of assault and battery. His bond was set at $2,500. Attorney information for Williams was not listed. His next hearing is scheduled for Feb. 20. Man used Snapchat to sexually abuse 11-year-old and coerce her into his home, feds say Teacher isolates student at school and sexually assaults her, Arkansas cops say Chick-fil-A parking lot dispute ends with man shot in the head, Minnesota cops say A man was killed Thursday night after flames consumed his room at a home in Sacramentos Parkway neighborhood, according to the Sacramento Fire Department. Firefighters were called at about 10:45 p.m. to the 4100 block of Archean Way for reports of a structure in the Parkway neighborhood, said Capt. Justin Sylvia, a Fire Department spokesman. Firefighters didnt see flames when they arrived, but saw a moderate amount of smoke, he said. Structure Fire: 4100 block of Archean Way. Crews arrived to smoke showing from a single story house. Two people were home and one managed to escape safely. The other adult male was found deceased in a back bedroom. Investigators are on scene to determine the cause of the fire. pic.twitter.com/YnowJWYeHX Sacramento Fire Department (@SacFirePIO) February 9, 2024 The victims roommate informed firefighters the man was trapped inside. She heard him screaming for help while inside, opened the door to his room and saw flames devouring its contents inside, Sylvia said. He noted the heavy fire prevented the woman from saving him. Firefighters began extinguishing the fire and found the man, he said. There wasnt much damage to the rest of the home, but the victims room was severely burned, Sylvia said. Fire investigators arrived at the scene and were still determining the fires cause, he said. Jordan Huffman makes a statement Friday as he appears in Winnebago County Circuit Court in Oshkosh. Huffman, 52, was sentenced to six years in prison for child enticement. OSHKOSH A 52-year-old Oshkosh man already serving a 20-year prison sentence for sexually assaulting a child was sentenced Friday in Winnebago County Circuit Court to an additional six years in prison for enticing a child while out on bail for the sexual assault case. Jordan Huffman pleaded guilty in November to one count of enticing a child for sexual contact and one count of bail jumping for picking up a 12-year-old boy from his house in Appleton and driving him to a Fox Crossing Hotel in May 2023. At the time of the crime, Huffman was out of Portage County Jail on $100,000 bail. He had been charged in August 2022 for repeated sexual contact with a teenager he was supposed to be mentoring as a youth minister at a church in Plover. Huffman pleaded guilty in that case in June to two counts of repeated sexual assault of the same child, and in October he was sentenced to 20 years in prison. The six-year prison sentence from Winnebago County Circuit Court Judge Daniel Bissett is double the recommendation of three years in prison that Huffman's defense attorney, Andrea Winder, and Assistant District Attorney Tracy Paider both recommended. Winder pointed out that aspects of the Winnebago County child enticement case were taken into account by the Portage County judge when delivering Huffman's sentence in the other case. At the sentencing hearing, Huffman said he takes full responsibility for his actions, and he apologized to the victims, the victims' families, his own family, the community and Bissett. He said he has been in therapy and recognizes he is "an unhealthy person" and needs to spend time in prison away from the community. "I know I have an unhealthy attraction to a category of people that I shouldn't. I can no longer live in denial about that," Huffman said. In the early morning of May 19, 2023, a 12-year-old boy called 911 and told Winnebago County dispatch he had been kidnapped from an address in Appleton, was in a vehicle and the man who took him was "coming back," according to a criminal complaint. By tracking GPS information from the boy's cellphone, police went to the Econo Lodge Hotel at 2000 Holly Road in Fox Crossing, where they conducted a traffic stop on Huffman's vehicle. The boy ran out of the vehicle, and police arrested Huffman, according to the complaint. The boy told investigators that earlier in the night, he and Huffman had been messaging on Snapchat, when the conversation turned sexual and Huffman arrived at the boy's house. The boy got in the vehicle, and Huffman drove them to the hotel. The boy said he called the police while Huffman checked into the hotel. They then went into the hotel room for a bit before the boy said he made up an excuse and had Huffman drive him home, according to the complaint. At the sentencing hearing, both Winder and Paider pointed out that some details the victim provided in the criminal complaint were not true. While the victim told police he guessed Huffman found out where he lived by looking at his location on Snapchat, a search of the victim's phone found the victim had given Huffman his address and asked him to be picked up. Also, the victim had initially told Huffman he was 19, then said he was 15 but did not, as the criminal complaint noted he told investigators, tell Huffman he was 12. Both attorneys said they did not bring up this information to discount the victim or lessen the impact of Huffman's crime, but simply ensure Huffman is sentenced on accurate facts. Additionally, both the prosecution and defense attorneys said Huffman would be about 75 years old by the time he is released from prison if Bissett were to give a three-year sentence to Huffman. Any longer of a sentence, Winder said, and his likelihood of dying in prison would increase significantly. "He needs to be punished, but not a life sentence," Winder said. However, Bissett said he "doesn't put much stock in when a person may die" when he chooses a sentence, and merely works to find the minimum amount of incarceration time that fits the crime. Bissett sentenced Huffman to an additional six years of extended supervision following his six years in prison for the Winnebago County crime. When Huffman is released from prison, he will be about 78 years old and between the two cases will spend an additional 26 years on extended supervision likely the rest of his life, attorneys said. A charge of first-degree sexual assault of a child under 13 and two other counts of bail jumping were dismissed in the case. RELATED: Former Plover youth minister gets 20 years in prison for repeated sexual assault of child Kelli Arseneau can be reached at 920-213-3721 or karseneau@gannett.com. Follow her on X at @ArseneauKelli. This article originally appeared on Appleton Post-Crescent: Man gets 6 years added to 20-year prison sentence for child enticement On the evening of 9 February, the Russian army targeted Odesa with Shahed attack UAVs, with one casualty reported amongst the civilian population. Source: Oleh Kiper, Head of Odesa Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram Quote: "We currently know of one casualty of the enemy drone attack on Odesa. A 44-year-old man sustained a shrapnel wound to the forearm. He is now receiving the necessary medical care in hospital." Background: The Air Force reported that Shahed attack UAVs were heading for Odesa. Support UP or become our patron! WEST JORDAN, Utah (ABC4) One man is in custody after allegedly attacking a stranger at a West Jordan TRAX station on Thursday night, Feb. 8. According to a booking affidavit, Nasean Lee, 18, was booked into the Salt Lake County Metro Jail. He is facing one third-degree felony charge of aggravated assault and a misdemeanor charge for failure to stop at the command of law enforcement. Police say Lee and two other men were clearly captured on UTA security cameras at a TRAX station located at 1127 West and 7800 South just before 8 p.m. starting a physical fight with the victim. The victim, who has only been identified as another man, had been sitting on a platform bench since before Lee and the others arrived. [Lee] and the other two males can clearly be seen surrounding the victim, knocking him down onto the ground and all three males are clearly seen punching and kicking the victim in the head and body area, police reported in the affidavit. Adults bullying a child: Parents of child targeted in Natalie Cline social media post become crusaders for attacked teens At one point, Lee can allegedly be seen picking up the victims e-bike off the ground and running with it. A short time later, he reportedly drops the bike and returns to continue the alleged assault on the victim. The victim reportedly suffered several injuries, including a major laceration to the head when he was struck four times with a glass bottle. Lee and the other two men only stopped their alleged assault when the victim pulled out a knife to begin defending himself, according to police. Lee was later confronted by responding officers and allegedly fled after being given orders to stop. Police used the help of a West Jordan K9 to locate Lee and safely take him into custody. According to police, Lee invoked his right to counsel when officers attempted to interview him. Police say the man was a stranger to Lee and his purported accomplices and the reason behind the attack is unknown at this time. It is currently unclear if police made any other arrests in relation to the alleged assault. Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. MEMPHIS, Tenn. Memphis Police were working to determine how a man ended up in the middle of a Frayser neighborhood, injured from a shooting. After midnight Friday morning, detectives were called to Carlyle Drive and Balfour Street off North Watkins. Investigators say the man was shot while turning around in someones driveway along St. Elmo Avenue, which is on the other side of North Watkins. The man, along with a second uninjured person in the same car, managed to make it a few blocks away, where help was called. The victim is expected to be okay. Memphis-Shelby County Schools could name new chief There is a cloud of suspicion on why the victim drove blocks away from the scene, but also what prompted the shooting. Neighbors in the area say they refuse to let attacks like this rip apart their sense of community. Police say they are still looking for the gunman. This is an ongoing investigation If you have any information regarding this incident, call Memphis CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. A man studying to be a priest in Ohio was arrested on child pornography charges, the Archdiocese of Cincinnati said. Broderick Witt was a seminarian at Mount St. Marys Seminary & School of Theology, according to a news release. Police searched Witts room at the seminary on Feb. 9 and then arrested him, the archdiocese said. Witt, 28, was charged with 8 counts of pandering sexually oriented matter involving a minor, court records show. Attorney information for Witt was not listed. The Hamilton County Sheriffs Office said the Regional Electronics & Computer Investigations department started investigating Witt in September 2023, WCPO reported. Court documents said some of the material involved girls as young as 6 years old, WLWT reported. Witt is no longer a student at the seminary, the archdiocese said. We have cooperated, and will continue to cooperate, fully with law enforcement and the prosecutors office, seminary rector Rev. Anthony R. Brausch said in a news release. We are committed to doing all we possibly can to remove the scourge of child exploitation and abuse from our Church and society. Man exposes himself to women while making TikTok videos in stores, Michigan cops say Ministry groups allowed teen to be sexually abused by sex offender, Texas lawsuit says CHULA VISTA, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) A man was arrested Wednesday on suspicion of sexually battering a woman at a CVS in Chula Vista last week, authorities said. Wesley Howard, 28, faces charges of felony sexual battery, assault with a deadly weapon and committing a felony while out on bail, Sgt. Anthony Molina with the Chula Vista Police Department (CVPD) said in a news release Thursday. Howard was out on bail from another arrest and listed as sex registrant in Chula Vista. Authorities received a call on Feb. 2 around 2:50 p.m. from a woman in her late 30s saying she had been sexually battered and attacked by a man while inside the store at 691 Third Avenue. The woman was in line, inside the store, when the man approached from behind and touched her inappropriately, Molina said. She confronted the man, but instead of him running off, he followed her into the parking lot. Police say the woman was able to get into her car with her husband and three children and called 911. The family waited in the parking lot to keep track of the suspect, but he walked away and jumped into someones backyard. Five Marines confirmed dead after helicopter crash in Pine Valley Shortly after, the man then came back to the victims car and struck a back-passenger window with a knife near where one of the kids was sitting, prompting the family to drive away from the suspect, according to police. None of the children were hurt as the glass didnt break. Authorities attempted to search for the suspect who left the scene, but could not find him at that time. On Wednesday, a San Diego police detective recognized the suspect from a photo that was distributed on a law enforcement flier, Molina said. Howard was identified as the suspect and officers arrested him at the Chula Vista police station when he was contacted to come about his sex registration. Police are working to see if the suspect victimized any other people who have yet to report the occurrences. Anyone with information can contact San Diego County Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477 or submit a tip via P3tips (online or mobile application) if they wish to remain anonymous. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. A manhunt is underway in Tennessee after a sheriffs deputy was fatally shot and a second deputy was wounded during a traffic stop Thursday night. Blount County sheriffs deputies Greg McCowan, 43, and Shelby Eggers, 22, were shot after a driver refused to get out of his vehicle during the stop just before 8:30 p.m. in Maryville, just south of Knoxville, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation said. Kenneth DeHart, 42, has been identified as the suspect in the shooting. Authorities said he faces charges of first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder and being felon in possession of a firearm. Kenneth DeHart, 42, is being sought on charges of first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder and being a felon in possession of a firearm. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation warned that he may be armed. Kenneth DeHart, 42, is being sought on charges of first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder and being a felon in possession of a firearm. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation warned that he may be armed. A taser was deployed with no effect. At some point during the encounter, DeHart produced a gun and fired shots, striking both deputies, the TBI said in a news release. At least one of the deputies returned fire, but the driver was able to escape. There was no known vehicle information as of late Friday morning, the TBI said in a social media post. McCowan, who served as a reserve deputy before joining the Blount County Sheriffs Office full time in 2020, was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Eggers, who began her career at the sheriffs office in 2019 as a corrections deputy, was treated at a hospital and is recovering at home, the sheriffs office said. Please keep his family, and the young lady who was shot, her and her family, and the Blount County Sheriffs Office employees in your prayers, Sheriff James Lee Berrong said in an emotional news conference. Im so sorry that weve lost a young man. I talked to his family earlier. I apologized for not protecting him. Blount County sheriff's deputies Greg McCowan, 43, and Shelby Eggers, 22, were both shot during the traffic stop. McCowan was pronounced dead after being taken to a hospital. Eggers is reportedly recovering after being treated for her wounds. Blount County sheriff's deputies Greg McCowan, 43, and Shelby Eggers, 22, were both shot during the traffic stop. McCowan was pronounced dead after being taken to a hospital. Eggers is reportedly recovering after being treated for her wounds. Authorities said that DeHart should be considered armed and dangerous, and that anyone who sees him or has knowledge of his whereabouts is urged to not approach him and to contact the Blount County Sheriffs Office or the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. A $62,500 reward is being offered for information that leads to his arrest. This reward money includes $40,000 thats being donated by gun manufacturer Smith & Wesson, which recently moved its headquarters to Maryville from Massachusetts. In a statement Friday, the gun company recognized both deputies dedication to public service and noted that Eggers sang the national anthem during its grand opening ceremony in October. These men and women are the backbone of our community, tirelessly working to ensure our safety and well-being, Smith & Wesson said. This is a stark reminder of why we call them heroes, and why they deserve our unwavering support and respect. They put their lives on the line each and every day. Related... A life prison term awaits an El Paso man convicted of killing his ex-girlfriend and her mother in a 2000 attack at their home. Jurors in the penalty phase for William Edward Henschel informed the judge Thursday that they could not reach a unanimous decision on whether he should get the death penalty. Advertisement Article continues below this ad All 12 jurors needed to agree on execution for Henschel to be sent to Texas death row, as prosecutors sought. He will get an automative life prison term. Henschel, 25, was found guilty Aug. 23 of capital murder in the June 11, 2000, double slaying. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Kristin Dibler, 20, and Carroll Dibler, 55, were fatally shot. Matt Kennedy, 23, was wounded in the attack. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The courtroom was filled with sobs as Henschel was sentenced. Some of the jurors wiped away tears as Kristin Dibler's older brother, Rob, doubled over crying, the El Paso Times reported in its Friday editions. Henschel also cried as he told the family of his victims how sorry he was for killing the people who had once been like a second family to him. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Kennedy described her and her mother as bright glimmering stars. "Because of you, those stars are painfully blotted from our sky," he said to Henschel. "Heaven is a place you will never see." A manhunt is underway for Kenneth Dehart (The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation) A manhunt is under way after a Tennessee police officer was shot dead and another was wounded during a traffic stop. Authorities in eastern Tennesse said warrants have been issued for 42-year-old Kenneth Dehart, who is wanted on suspicion of first degree murder, attempted first degree murder and being a felon in possession of a firearm after the Thursday evening shooting, which took place at a traffic stop in Maryville. Blount County Sheriff James Lee Berrong said deputy Greg McCowan was killed in the shooting after he and deputy Shelby Eggers initiated a traffic stop on an SUV in the 4900 block of Sevierville Road just before 8.30pm on Thursday. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) spokesperson said Dehart began shooting after he would not cooperate with deputies during the traffic stop and refused to exit the vehicle. A stun gun was then deployed with no effect, the TBI said. At some point during the encounter, DeHart produced a gun and fired shots, striking both deputies, the agency added. A manhunt is underway for Kenneth Dehart (The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation) Ms Eggers was shot in the leg and returned fire, Sheriff Berrong said. Her injuries are not thought to be life-threatening. She was transported to hospital, but has since been released and is recovering at home, the sheriffs office said. McCowan was also transported to an area hospital where he later died. Police are now searching for Dehart after he fled the scene. He was last seen in the Wildwood area of the city of Maryville, the TBI said on social media. Multiple law enforcement agencies are involved in the manhunt for Dehart, who authorities said should be considered armed and dangerous and shouldnt be approached if spotted. An official shows a picture of the killed deputy, Greg McCowan, during a press conference (Blount County Sheriff's Office) A statewide Blue Alert has been issued for Dehart and he has been added to the TBI Most Wanted list. Following the shooting, Sheriff Berrong announced the officers death during a Thursday evening press conference, saying its the hardest thing Ive ever done. We had an officer killed tonight on a traffic stop, another female officer was shot in the leg, she returned fire, the sheriff explained. Im so sorry that weve lost a young man. I talked to his family earlier. I apologised for not protecting him. He added that a $10,000 reward has been offered for information that leads to Deharts arrest. He was described as driving a silver Lexus and is believed to now be on foot. The sheriffs office is asking that residents in the Wildwood area check outdoor security and doorbell cameras for footage that may show possible suspicious people or activity in connection with the shooting. We will get this man off the streets of East Tennessee and put him behind bars, the sheriff said. Warrants on Friday charged Kenneth Wayne DeHart Jr. with first degree murder, attempted first degree murder and felon in possession of a weapon in the murder of a sheriff's deputy and wounding of a second deputy. Photo courtesy Blount County Sheriff's Department Feb. 9 (UPI) -- A manhunt Friday searched for the killer of a Blount County, Tenn., sheriff's deputy following a Thursday evening traffic stop. Another deputy also was wounded. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation said in a statement that just before 8:30 p.m. Thursday, "Blount County Sheriff's Office initiated a traffic stop on an SUV in the 4900 block of Sevierville Road in Maryville. The driver, identified as Kenneth Wayne DeHart Jr. (DOB: 1/12/82), would not cooperate with deputies and refused to get out of the vehicle. A taser was deployed with no effect. At some point during the encounter, DeHart produced a gun and fired shots, striking both deputies." Warrants Friday charged DeHart with first degree murder, attempted first degree murder and felon in possession of a weapon. Killed was Deputy Greg McCowan. Deputy Shelby Eggers was wounded and hospitalized with non-life threatening injuries. At least one of the deputies returned fire, according to TBI. Blount County Sheriff's Deputy Greg McCowan was shot to death following a traffic stop Thursday evening in Tennessee. A manhunt is underway Friday for suspect Kenneth Wayne DeHart Jr. Photo courtesy of Blount County Sheriff's Department An $80,000 reward was announced by the Blount County sheriff's office for DeHart's capture. That includes $40,000 from Smith & Wesson CEO Mark Smith, $10,000 from the U.S. Marshals Service and pledges from other businesses and individuals. DeHart's criminal record revealed 26 different criminal charges from 2002-2017, including aggravated assault, domestic violence and unlawful possession of a weapon counts. Blount County, Tenn., sheriff's deputy Shelby Eggers was wounded and hospitalized with non-life threatening injuries following a traffic stop shooting Thursday evening. Photo courtesy of Blount County Sheriff's Department The records show he served four years at the Charles B. Bass Correctional Complex for aggravated assault. Editor's note: This story was updated Feb. 13, 2024, to correct the construction cost for a Mid-Cape section of the Cape Cod Rail Trail. Vision 88 is an initiative by the Cape Cod Commission to build a Cape-wide rail trail, converting sections of unused railroad and other trail space into an expansive network of bicycle and pedestrian paths. And while parts have been completed like Shining Sea Bikeway in Falmouth other sections remain unfinished. Those unfinished trails include the proposed Bourne Rail Trail, a 4.4 mile shared use path in Sandwich, the Barnstable-Yarmouth section in the Mid-Cape area and an Outer Cape portion from Wellfleet to Provincetown. Currently, the single vehicle is the predominant means of getting around," said Cape Cod Commission Deputy Director Steven Tupper. Long-term, county planners are thinking about overall investments in the Cape's transportation network, Tupper said. "We want to make investments in bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure and we want to think about how all of those modes of transportation can connect together, he said. A "road closed" sign on Monday warns bicyclists at the end of the Cape Cod Rail Trail off Higgins Crowell Road in West Yarmouth. Paul Graves, senior project manager for the town of Barnstable Department of Public Works, said the rail trail project for a roughly four-mile section from Yarmouth west to Mary Dunn Road in Barnstable has been in development for years and construction bids will be going out in August. Project costs for proposal Outer Cape The proposed section expanding the Cape Cod Rail Trail to northern sections of Wellfleet, Truro and ultimately Provincetown is the largest unfinished path in the Vision 88 project. Spanning nearly 20 miles from near Lecount Hollow Road in South Wellfleet to its proposed terminus in Provincetown near Arch Street, the Outer Cape section of the Rail Trail comes with a set of unique challenges, Tupper said. A state design in 2021 to route the rail trail along an old railroad bed from Lecount Hollow Road north to Route 6 was paused. Community opposition to the design was vocal. On the Outer Cape, I think we have to be ambitious by necessity, Tupper said. We're really wanting to make sure we connect up with different options when thinking about what transit amenities exist today or could be developed, and then how these projects could work together to create more options on the Outer Cape. The current proposal sees the roughly 20-mile-long spine trail interconnecting with a network of smaller trails some leading to the Cape Cod National Seashore and the Cape Cod Bay shoreline, and others connecting into and out of the towns of Wellfleet, Truro and Provincetown. An overview map of the proposed Outer Cape portion of the Cape Cod Rail Trail. In 2017, the project was estimated to cost around $28 million, according to the Cape Cod Commission. But Tupper said construction costs have skyrocketed since then, making an updated figure for the project and a timeline for completion uncertain. I'm hopeful in terms of the funding outlook in the next several years, but itll certainly take many years to complete that overall vision on the Outer Cape, Tupper said. In 2021: 'A long way to go': Alternatives to Wellfleet bike path plan raise concerns, too Construction bid going out in August for Mid-Cape section One portion of the trail with a closer start date is the Mid-Cape section, linking Yarmouth to Barnstable. Paul Graves, senior project manager for the town of Barnstable Department of Public Works, said the project for a roughly four-mile section from Yarmouth to Mary Dunn Road in Barnstable has been in development for years and construction bids will be going out in August this year. Part of the reason why it takes years to develop these projects is a large scope of work to plan ahead, get community input, design and then go through the states Department of Transportation process, Graves said. The Barnstable portion is broken down into two phases, Graves said, with the section going out to bid in August, Phase 3, operating ahead of the fourth phase that is set to link the terminus at Mary Dunn Road to Sandwich. Construction is estimated to cost around $12 million, Tupper said. It involves some really significant infrastructure pieces, including a bridge over Yarmouth Road, a very large structure, he said. Some good news is that while the towns put up some money, we were successful in getting grant funding from the design, the bulk of those dollars are coming from federal and state sources. The section in the Mid-Cape will feature a shared-use bicycle and pedestrian path, much like the other proposed and implemented portions of the project. Winter curtails construction in Sandwich A smaller section in Sandwich, which is proposed to link the Cape Cod Canal Bikeway, will stretch from Route 130 to Chase Road. The town of Sandwich, in cooperation with the Sandwich Bikeway and Pedestrian Committee, have been working to build shared-use paths, also known as bike paths, along Service Road for some time, said Sam Jensen, Sandwich Assistant Town Engineer. Jensen said the Sandwich path has made tremendous progress so far, but winter has curtailed some of the construction. He said work will continue through this year and is expected to be completed by the end of the year. Other desired routes are drafted up for connecting Barnstable, Mashpee and Falmouth, as well as linking Mashpee and Sandwich. But Tupper said there is no timeline on those projects. In 2020: Rail trail extension moves into third phase A path proposed north from Falmouth to Cape Cod Canal Perhaps the most well-known proposal is the Bourne Rail Trail, which would connect the Shining Sea Bikeway in Falmouth to the Cape Cod Canal Bikeway in Bourne. Recently, the project has garnered controversy regarding the proposal to remove the Falmouth Secondary rail line in order to replace it with the bike path. The Falmouth Secondary line, operated by the private railroad company Mass Coastal Railroad, is currently being used to haul freight of solid waste from the Upper Cape transfer station to an off-Cape location once or twice a week. The proposal calls for building a roughly 6 mile path and has had $20 million of federal funding made available through the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority. 'A lot of community conversations' Tupper said because the project spans the entire region, cooperation and coordination between towns, agencies and various stakeholders is critical for the Vision 88 project to realize completion. At its core, the Vision is one born out of a lot of community conversations that we and others have had throughout the years, Tupper said. Among the agencies involved in the project are the Massachusetts Department of Transportation and the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. Tupper said the state transportation agency has taken the lead on the project on the Outer Cape, while state conservation and recreation staff members operate the rail trail currently in place linking Yarmouth to Wellfleet. Municipalities from Barnstable to Truro are stakeholders in the project as well. Tupper said the implementation of the region-wide shared-use path is more about bolstering the regions infrastructure and connectivity than simply catering to a hobby. I think a lot of this work with the bike path and multimodal space, sometimes is seen in a kind of a recreational focus, Tupper said. But really, at the heart of it, we're talking about transportation facilities. 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: Cape-wide bike, pedestrian trail faces planning hurdles, rising costs Texas Hill Country Wineries is cerebrating 25 years, marking a quarter-century of promoting the wine industry in the Lone Star State. Getty The Texas Hill County Wineries Association is celebrating 25 years of promoting and elevating the wine industry in the Lone Star State. The association started with eight winery members and included the original wineries Becker Vineyards, Fall Creek Vineyards, Flat Creek Estate, Sister Creek Vineyard, Texas Hills Vineyards, Fredericksburg Winery, Grape Creek Vineyards and Spicewood Vineyards. Its been great to see the association grow and evolve since I became involved 15 years ago, said January Wiese, Texas Hill Country Wineries executive director. I cant wait to see more growth in our region and organization in the coming years. Advertisement Article continues below this ad To celebrate the milestone, Texas Hill County Wineries is celebrating the long running popular events that helped put Texas wine on the map as a tourist attraction and included an Instagram account to share the many insights into the organization's history, which helped to draw millions of visitors to the region's tasting rooms through the years. Texas Hill Country Wineries is cerebrating 25 years, marking a quarter-century of promoting the wine industry in the Lone Star State. xjben/Getty Images One of the significant contributions to Texas wine tourism has been the creation of the wine trail passport events, and in 2025, the association will expand the passport events to include the Elevated Passport, which will take place from August 9 - 11, a portion of the release said. Participating wineries will feature more than just tastings and includes food and wine pairings, barrel tastings, verticals and more. In addition, Texas Hill County Wineries is hosting an anniversary party for members, which will be open to the public at Arch Ray in late June. Advertisement Article continues below this ad While the 25th anniversary celebrates the Hill Country wineries, the association is expanding to other regions in the state and has recently been hosting traveling Road Shows in major Texas markets, including Austin, Houston, Fort Worth and San Antonio. OSHKOSH Two circuit court commissioners are facing off against a former Winnebago County Circuit Court judge in the race for Winnebago County Circuit Court Branch 1 judge. One-time Winnebago County judge LaKeisha Haase and commissioners Eric Heywood and Michael D. Rust are vying for the seat in the spring election after incumbent Teresa Basiliere opted not to seek reelection. Appointed to the court in 2020 by Gov. Tony Evers, Haase lost her reelection bid for Branch 4 two years ago before failing to unseat Branch 2 incumbent Scott Woldt in a very contentious 2023 race. In 2021, Woldt received a rare suspension without pay for seven days from the Wisconsin Supreme Court because of misconduct the court deemed to be serious and to have a significant detrimental impact on the publics view of the judiciary. Haase, Heywood and Rust, who are all seeking a six-year term on the bench, will first face a primary election Feb. 20. The top two finishers from that primary will then go forward to the April 2 general election. All three candidates will have a chance to field questions from the community when the League of Women Voters of Winnebago County hosts the first of three primary election forums at Oshkosh City Hall Jan. 31. Ahead of those forums, the Oshkosh Northwestern asked the candidates to a series of questions explaining why theyre running for office, what makes them the best candidate and how they intend to address their residents issues. Here are their responses, which were edited for length. Election preview: 5 candidates vie for 3 Oshkosh Common Council seats. Here's a full look at the spring election. LaKeisha Haase LaKeisha Haase Age: 44 City of residence: Oshkosh Occupation: Litigation attorney with Renning, Lewis & Lacy, S.C. Highest education level: Juris Doctor, Marquette University Law School Relevant experience: Winnebago County Circuit Court judge, Branch IV; trial attorney with the Wisconsin State Public Defenders Office; litigation attorney in both the federal and circuit; judicial assistant in Winnebago County Circuit Court Branch IV; court assistant in Winnebago County Circuit Court Branch I; volunteer attorney for Winnebago Free Legal Assistance Clinic; Drug and Alcohol Treatment Court professional; presiding judge for state high school mock trial competitions Campaign website or Facebook page: www.JudgeHaase.com; www.Facebook.com/HaaseforJudge Eric Heywood Eric Heywood Age: 37 City of residence: Neenah Occupation: Judicial Court Commissioner Highest education level: Juris Doctor, University of Wisconsin Law School Relevant experience: 13 years as a prosecutor, public defender and judicial court commissioner. Developed diversion programs, treatment courts and mental health law resources. Campaign website or Facebook page: www.facebook.com/heywoodforjudge; www.heywoodforjudge.com Michael D. Rust Michael D. Rust Age: 45 City of residence: Oshkosh Occupation: Circuit Court commissioner Highest education level: Juris Doctorate, Marquette University Law School Relevant experience: CEO of Winnebago Conflict Resolution Center from 2013 to 2022; Circuit Court commissioner for Winnebago County Circuit Courts from 2022 to current. Facebook page: www.facebook.com/rust4judge Why are you running for office? Haase: I have a passion for justice, a commitment to upholding the rule of law, and a desire to contribute to the legal system's fairness and effectiveness. Heywood: I dedicated my career to public service and want to make a bigger impact in our community. I grew up here and am raising my daughters here with my wife. I want to keep Winnebago County a safe and stable place to raise a family. Rust: My legal career has been focused on helping people resolve conflicts. I spent more than a decade as a professional neutral, including nine-and-a-half years as CEO of the Winnebago Conflict Resolution Center and Fond du Lac Conflict Resolution Center. I then transitioned into my role as Circuit Court commissioner. Why are you the best candidate in this race? Haase: I am the only candidate with experience as a circuit court judge. My experience on the bench and expansive legal career, coupled with my commitment of service to our community is why I am the best candidate. Preparedness, integrity, and commitment to the rule of law are my guiding principles. Heywood: I am the only candidate with extensive courtroom experience in prosecution, defense and judicial roles. This broad background allows me to see cases from multiple perspectives and make fair decisions. I am committed to knowing and following the law, and treating people with dignity and respect from the bench. Rust: Neutrality is an essential quality for judges. I received the 2022 Lifetime Legal Innovation Award by the State Bar of Wisconsin. Innovation within the legal system is essential in providing effective justice to the public in the most efficient and at the least cost to the taxpayers. ThedaCare modernization: How ThedaCares $100M Neenah hospital modernization will impact the entire northeast Wisconsin region What are residents telling you are the most important issues and how would you work to address them? Haase: Protection of the community. Fairness, honesty, transparency, and upholding the Constitution is how I preside over every case that comes before me. I am mindful of the balance between protecting the community, the character and rehabilitative needs of the defendant, and the gravity of the offense. I am a proponent of diversion programs, alternatives to incarceration for non-violent offenders, and addressing the underlying causes that lead to non-violent offenses, all in an effort to reduce recidivism. Violent offenses demand that I give even greater consideration to incarceration in an effort to properly and adequately protect the community. Heywood: Residents shared their concerns about drug addiction, mental health and housing access. The growing issues of drug addiction, fentanyl and mental health are taking more lives in our community. As court commissioner, I work with sobriety monitoring programs, treatment courts and connections to public and private services. I partnered with the Conflict Resolution Center to increase opportunities for mediation between landlords and tenants in eviction cases. As a judge, I would continue to use tools and resources to address these safety and stability issues in our community. Rust: Neutrality, ethics and mental health. The importance of the neutrality of the judiciary is essential to the functioning of the American system. My professional ethics will continue to be a driving force in how I run my courtroom, but also handle matters outside of the courthouse. Finally, we have a mental health crisis in our community. My undergraduate degrees are in neuroscience and psychology from Carthage College in Kenosha (with minors in biology and entrepreneurial studies). I have spoken with many public safety and mental health professionals in our community who are concerned about the lack of appropriate treatment. Have a story tip or public interest concern? Contact Justin Marville at jmarville@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Oshkosh Northwestern: Winnebago County judge candidates share views in primary election The appointment of General Oleksandr Syrsky has been viewed with skepticism by some Ukrainian troops - HANDOUT/PRESS SERVICE OF OPERATIONAL-STRATEGIC COMMAND 'KHORTYTSYA'/AFP General Oleksandr Syrsky is credited with leading the defence of Kyiv against all odds in the first month of the war and then spearheading a highly successful counter-offensive in northeastern Ukraine. But the 58-year-old veteran commander must now lead war-torn Ukraine out of months of deadlock against its Russian occupiers. It was announced on Thursday that he would take over from Valery Zaluzhny as Ukraines commander-in-chief, after the latter was given his marching orders by President Volodymyr Zelensky. A grizzled Soviet-style military chief, Gen Syrsky has commanded Ukraines ground forces since 2019, earning himself a reputation as an astute planner with an eye for detail. He had previously commanded Ukrainian troops fighting against the Moscow-backed insurgency in the eastern Donbas regions of Donetsk and Luhansk some five years earlier. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy with Gen Oleksandr Syrsky (right) - EFREM LUKATSKY/AP In February 2015, at the height of fighting against Russian proxies, Gen Syrsky oversaw the withdrawal of some 6,000 Ukrainian troops from Debaltseve, the last major clash before the Minsk II accord ushered in a fragile peace. When Russia launched the full-scale invasion almost two years ago, the 58-year-old was put in charge of thwarting the initial push on Kyiv and the surrounding region. He broke down the Ukrainian capital and the neighbouring towns and villages into sectors, handing the reins to local generals. Officers were given clearance to make their own tactical decisions - a marked step away from Soviet rigidity. And then came the next significant moment in the war in September 2022. With Russia now focusing on capturing the remainder of the Donbas, Gen Syrsky oversaw a series of probing attacks along the lengthy frontline in the neighbouring Kharkiv region. A weak spot was eventually found, with Ukraine pouring in troops and armour to break the lines, subsequently liberating swathes of land and pushing Russian forces back over the borders from where they had come some seven months earlier. While considered hugely successful, the counter-offensive proved to be the first strain in the relationship between Gen Zaluzhny and President Zelensky. One soldier described Gen Syrsky as a butcher viewing his men as meat - METIN AKTAS/ANADOLU The former commander-in-chief had proposed a push to the Sea of Azov, to cut the land bridge from Russia to occupied Crimea, but the politicians wanted more instantaneous results. Shortly after the Kharkiv rout, Gen Syrsky was put in charge of his third major campaign of the war the defence of Bakhmut. It is here in the salt mining town in Eastern Ukraine where the general started losing favour with his troops. Out went the Nato-styled combined arms manoeuvres as Soviet-style positional warfare returned. It was a return to Gen Syrskys roots as a student at the Moscow Higher Military Command School, a Soviet equivalent of Sandhurst. He had been born in the Vladimir region of Russia when it was still part of the USSR, versing himself in Soviet warfare, before moving to Ukraine in the 1980s. In Bakhmut, tens of thousands of men died fighting over the ruined remains of the city, in what is still the bloodiest battle of the invasion. Many, including Western military planners, had urged Gen Syrsky, and his close ally Mr Zelensky, to withdraw and conserve Ukraines forces, but they persisted in defence. Bakhmut holds was the motto but in reality it was a bloodbath for both sides. When the Telegraph asked a Ukrainian soldier about Gen Syrskys appointment as commander-in-chief, they replied simply three ribeye steak emojis. Red meat for the doubters? This journalist asked. No, we are the meat and he is the butcher, the soldier replied. For him, its victory or death. This is not an isolated view, for others acknowledge how damaging the move has been for morale at a time when Ukraine is desperate to find hundreds of thousands of new recruits to defend the country. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Oksana Markarova, Ukrainian ambassador to the US, thinks that the forthcoming meeting between US President Joe Biden and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz may help Ukraine obtain "long-range capabilities". Source: Markarova in the broadcast of the national 24/7 newscast Quote: "An important meeting. I really hope that the opportunities we have not received yet will be discussed as well. I hope that this meeting will bring us closer to long-range capabilities. We are constantly reminding both partners that we need them urgently." Details: At the moment Olaf Scholz is on a visit in the US. He wanted to discuss the aid for Ukraine with American officials. In addition to this, a bipartisan delegation from the US Congress arrived in Ukraine on 9 February. It consisted of five people, most of them members of the intelligence committee. Support UP or become our patron! A furious Joe Biden shouted at reporters who questioned his mental agility at an impromptu press conference on Thursday evening, hours after a bombshell report revealed he had struggled to remember when he was vice president. The president spoke from the White House to respond to a report by special counsel Robert Hur, who investigated Mr Bidens storage of classified documents. In the report, Mr Hur said that he did not think Mr Biden should be prosecuted over secret papers that were discovered in his garage but questioned significant limitations in his memory. Responding to the claims, Mr Biden said his memory was fine and defended his record since taking office in 2021. Mr Hur said on Thursday that the president had twice failed to recall when he had served as vice president under Barack Obama, and had forgotten the date his son Beau died. On the subject of his son, Mr Biden replied: How in the hell dare he raise that? Frankly, when I was asked the question, I thought to myself, it wasnt any of their damned business. I dont need anyone, I dont need anyone to remind me of when he passed away. Furious: Joe Biden at the impromptu press conference - Evan Vucci/AP However, the press conference raised further questions about Mr Bidens mental agility, after he confused Mexico with Egypt in response to a reporters query about the current situation in the Middle East. Referring to the Rafah crossing, between Egypt and Gaza, he said: As you know, initially the President of Mexico, Sisi, did not want to open up the gate to allow humanitarian material to get in. Abdel Fattah el-Sisi is the president of Egypt, while Mexico does not share a land border with Gaza. Im of the view, as you know, that the conduct of the response in Gaza, in the Gaza Strip, has been over the top, he said. He said he was pleased that the Department of Justice had decided not to pursue him in the courts, but did not address the fact that one reason for the decision was that a jury would acquit him because they would think he was a well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory. The president began shouting at reporters as they asked him about the reports findings. Mr Biden addressed the special counsel's report on his handling of classified material and responded to questions about his memory - Nathan Howard/Getty Images At one point, responding to a question about a perception among some voters that he is no longer fit to serve as president, he replied: That is your judgement. That is your judgement! That is not the judgement of the press. As he was questioned on the findings of the report, which claimed that classified material had been wrongly stored at Mr Bidens home, he responded: I did not share classified information! I did not. As reporters spoke over him, he shouted back: Let me answer your question! He added that the reason he believed he should remain in office was because Im the most qualified person in this country to be president of the United States and finish the job I started. The report and press conference come after a series of public gaffes from Mr Biden, in which he claimed to have spoken recently with two long-dead world leaders. At campaign events in New York this week, he told audiences that he had spoken with Helmut Kohl and Francois Mitterand at a G7 summit in Cornwall in 2021. Mr Kohl and Mr Mitterand died in 2017 and 1996, respectively, and their countries of Germany and France were represented at the summit by Angela Merkel and Emmanuel Macron. 02:06 AM GMT That's all for today Thanks for following our live blog. You can read our front page story on Joe Biden and the specials counsel report here. 01:34 AM GMT Biden calls Israel's Gaza response 'over the top' Israels military response in the Gaza Strip to the October 7 attacks by Hamas has been over the top, Mr Biden said. Im of the view, as you know, that the conduct of the response in Gaza, in the Gaza Strip, has been over the top, he told reporters at the White House. 01:18 AM GMT Biden blames staff for classified documents in garage Mr Biden has blamed his staff for the classified documents in his garage that sparked a Department of Justice investigation into his handling of the materials. I wish I had paid more attention to how the documents were being moved to work, I thought they had been moved to the archives, he said. 01:14 AM GMT 'That is your judgement': Biden shouts at reporters as he responds to age questions Mr Biden just had an angry exchange with a reporter who said voters had concerns about his age. That is your judgement, that is your judgement! he shouted at the reporter. That is not the judgement of the press. Asked why he thought he could continue in the job, he replied: Because Im the most qualified person in this country to be president of the United States and finish the job I started. He then shouts at another reporter: I did not share classified information! I did not. As reporters spoke over him, he shouted back: Let me answer your question! 01:11 AM GMT Biden: 'How dare' special counsel mention my recall of my sons death Mr Biden gave an emotional response to the report questioning his memory, saying how dare the prosecutor mention he could not recall the date of his sons death. Mr Biden said that when he was asked about his son, he thought it was none of your damn business. Theres even reference that I dont remember when my son died. How in the hell dare he raise that? he said. Frankly, when I was asked that question, I thought to myself: Its none of your damn business. He said he sat for five hours over two days of events going back 40 years while at the same time I was managing an international crisis. Mr Biden became visibly angry in response to questions from the press about his mental state. My memory is not...my memory is fine. My memory...take a look at what Ive done since Ive become president, he said. 01:05 AM GMT Biden says 'shortage of evidence' he willfully retained classified documents Mr Biden is picking elements of the report that he says exonerate him. There is in fact a shortage of evidence that I willfully retained classified materials related to Afghanistan, he said. He added: The decision to decline criminal charges was straight forward. The evidence suggests that Mr. Biden did not willfully retain these documents. 01:01 AM GMT Biden 'pleased' with outcome of report Joe Biden said he was pleased with the outcome of todays report, which decided not to bring any charges against him for his handling of classified documents. I was especially pleased to see Special Counsel make clear the stark distinction and difference between this case and Mr Trumps case, he said. 12:54 AM GMT Make no mistake, this is a dangerous moment for Biden The fact that Joe Biden is giving an unscheduled press conference, late in the day after returning from campaign events, shows how concerned he is about this news. Washington has been gripped by the revelation that came in a special counsels report earlier, that the president could not remember key details about his own life. The White House will be in defence mode tonight -- trying to put a lid on this story before it overwhelms Mr Bidens entire reelection campaign. This could prove one of the defining moments of his premiership. 12:37 AM GMT Biden to make surprise address Joe Biden will deliver a speech at 7.45pm (12:45am GMT), the White House has announced, in a last-minute addition to his schedule for the day. The announcement did not give further details or specify the subject of the speech. 11:40 PM GMT Nikki Haley: Biden must prove he is up to the job Nikki Haley has repeated her call for Joe Biden to take a mental competency test, after the latest revelations about his memory. The Republican primary contender, 51, has often called for older politicians including Mr Biden and Donald Trump to take tests after the age of 75. Joe Biden cant remember major events in his life, like when he was vice president or when his son died, she said. That is sad, but it will be even sadder if we have a person in the White House who is not mentally up for the most important job in the world. 11:14 PM GMT Images from the classified documents investigation released Inside Joe Biden's Delaware garage, where classified documents were stored The prosecutors released images showing where the documents had been kept 11:06 PM GMT Mike Johnson's statement in full My joint statement with @SteveScalise, @GOPMajorityWhip, and @RepStefanik regarding the Special Counsel report: The Special Counsels finding that President Biden willfully retained and disclosed classified materials and engaged in practices that present serious risks to Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) February 8, 2024 11:04 PM GMT Biden should be prosecuted over documents, says Trump Joe Biden was in his mental primetime when he stored classified documents in his garage and should be prosecuted, Donald Trump has claimed. The Republican frontrunner, who is facing criminal charges over his own alleged mishandling of confidential documents, said he was the victim of a two-tiered system of justice. He wrote on his Truth Social platform: Biden took the Documents in his mental primetime. He shouldnt be allowed to get away with this. I was cooperative with the Investigators. Crooked Joe Biden didnt - Just the opposite, following the usual, corrupt Democrat Playbook. He willfully retained documents. This is Scam Justice - Deranged Jack Smith and his Thugs should immediately drop the totally discredited Documents Hoax against me. A TWO-TIERED SYSTEM OF JUSTICE AND SELECTIVE PROSECUTION! 10:57 PM GMT Biden would have appeared to jury as a 'well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory' President Joe Biden will not face charges for knowingly taking classified documents when he left the vice presidency in 2017, according to a prosecutors report released Thursday that will raise new problems for the Democrat as he seeks reelection. Special Counsel Robert Hur said he opted against bringing criminal charges following a 15-month investigation because Biden cooperated and would be difficult to convict, describing him as a well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory. 10:55 PM GMT Report intensifies concerns over Biden's memory Longstanding concerns about Joe Bidens age and memory have intensified after the release of a report investigating his possession of classified documents. The report described the 81-year-old Democrats memory as hazy, fuzzy, faulty, poor and having significant limitations. It noted that Mr Biden could not recall defining milestones in his own life. He did not remember when he was vice president, forgetting on the first day of the interview when his term ended (if it was 2013 when did I stop being Vice President?), and forgetting on the second day of the interview when his term began (in 2009, am I still Vice President?), the report said. He did not remember, even within several years, when his son Beau died. While Biden will not face charges for mishandling classified documents, the reports assertions about his memory could undermine Bidens message to voters that he can manage the government and safeguard the country. Voters are already going into this years election with severe misgivings about Bidens age, having scrutinised his gaffes, his slow walking and even a tumble off his bicycle. 10:53 PM GMT Good evening and welcome to our live blog We will be bringing you all the reaction to the bombshell report from the investigation into Joe Bidens handling of classified documents. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, deleted the accounts associated with Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei due to pro-Hamas rhetoric following the militant groups surprise attack on Israel last October that sparked the ongoing war in the region. While the social media company did not offer specifics on why the accounts were removed, it did emphasize its commitment to pull accounts that violate its Dangerous Organizations and Individuals policy, according to The Associated Press. We do not allow organizations or individuals that proclaim a violent mission or are engaged in violence to have a presence on our platforms, the policy states, per the AP. That includes those designated as terrorists by the U.S. government. Khamenei has been on the U.S. sanction radar before, particularly when former President Trump was in office and tensions heightened over the U.S. governments decision to pull out of the Iranian nuclear deal. Instagram and Facebook are banned in Iran and the platforms have already been pressured to remove the accounts associated with the leader, the AP reported. Khamenei supported Hamass attack on southern Israel, which left 1,200 Israelis dead and more than 200 people taken captive, but he denied any involvement in the strikes. He has also supported attacks on U.S. and allies ships in the Red Sea that were initiated by Houthi rebels in Yemen, according to French newswire Agence France-Presse. Hamas is designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. Khamenei still has an account on X, formerly known as Twitter. The head of the Anti-Defamation League, Jonathan Greenblatt, celebrated the decision by Meta. Weve long asked @Meta to take down the Facebook & Instagram accounts of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei & applaud that its finally happened, Greenblatt wrote in a Thursday post on X. Hes used these platforms for years to incite violent antisemitism, to legitimize militant antizionism and to make genocidal threats. The Hill has reached out to Meta for comment. The Associated Press contributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Former President Donald Trump has lost his immunity claim in federal appeals court. He plans to appeal to the Supreme Court. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images The immunity former President Donald Trump was hoping for has been shot down in a federal appeals court. Trump faces prosecution for allegedly taking part in criminal acts in an attempt to change the outcome of the 2020 election which in turn sparked the Jan. 6 insurrection. Trump claimed on numerous occasions that his status as president made him immune to any criminal charges or wrongdoing. However, the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia said no which is also what the lower court said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "Today, we affirm the denial. For the purpose of this criminal case, former President Trump has become citizen Trump, with all of the defenses of any other criminal defendant," the ruling reads. "But any executive immunity that may have protected him while he served as president no longer protects him against this prosecution." The 45th President can appeal to the Supreme Court, which CNN reports he already plans to do via his campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung. The Supreme Court's decision would be the final ruling on the matter. Justices Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett were all appointed to the Supreme Court by Trump. This means six of the nine justices appointed to the Supreme Court have been given their roles by Republican presidents. "President Trump respectfully disagrees with the D.C. circuits decision and will appeal it in order to safeguard the presidency and the Constitution, Cheung said in a statement published by NBC News. A 23-year-old Miami gang member could spend the rest of his life in prison after he was found guilty this week of fatally shooting someone who drove by his house and of firing shots at an undercover FBI agent during two separate incidents in 2020. That April, Geno St. Flerose, a member of the Everybody Eats gang, chased the first victim for four blocks before shooting 13 rounds into his car, striking him three times, a Miami federal jury found at trial Wednesday. The victim was 22 years old at the time of the murder. Then in June 2020, the FBI agent was doing surveillance in St. Fleroses neighborhood when the gang member saw the agents car, according to trial evidence. St. Flerose ran into the street and fired multiple shots at the car, hitting the vehicle but not the agent, the jury found. Investigators also discovered that St. Flerose had hundreds of peoples personal ID information, such as Social Security numbers. He was arrested in July 2020, court records show. At trial this week, St. Flerose was found guilty in a 23-count indictment of murder in aid of racketeering, assaulting a federal law enforcement officer, discharging a firearm during a crime of violence, and possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. He was also found guilty of aggravated identity theft. St. Flerose, prosecuted by the U.S. Attorneys Office in Miami, faces up to life in prison. His sentencing is scheduled for May 3 before U.S. District Judge Beth Bloom. A British Virgin Islands premier was acting like the fictitious CIA agent Jason Bourne when he was approached by a Mexican cartel member about using his ports for shipping cocaine to the United States, a defense attorney said Thursday at the politicians drug-trafficking trial in Miami. Andrew Fahie then took role-playing as Bourne even further when he agreed to accept millions in bribes from the trafficker so the BVI premier could uncover whether the smuggler was out to destroy him on behalf of the British government that controls the Caribbean territory, his lawyer said during closing arguments. Mr. Fahie was concerned that the British didnt like him, his attorney, Theresa Van Vliet, told jurors. Mr. Fahie knew that someone was trying to remove from his position as premier. Jurors, however, didnt buy the Bourne defense. The 12-person Miami federal jury found Fahie guilty of conspiring to import cocaine into the United States along with three related money laundering and racketeering charges after a two-week trial. Jurors deliberated for only four hours before reaching their decision on the BVI premiers fate. Fahie was arrested in April 2022 in Miami following a U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration sting operation. He faces up to life in prison at his sentencing on April 29 before U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams. READ NEXT: Hes a little crook: As BVI chief faces U.S. drug charge, his government faces crackdown The judge ordered Fahie, who showed no emotion as the four guilty verdicts were announced, to surrender immediately to prison authorities. The 53-year-old was escorted in handcuffs by a U.S. Marshals deputy to the Federal Detention Center next to the courthouse. The U.S. government made its cocaine-smuggling case against the former British Virgin Islands premier by casting a confidential informant as the Mexican cartel trafficker. The informant, who went by the name Roberto, collected hundreds of recorded conversations and text messages with BVI premier Andrew Fahie while they discussed million-dollar bribery payments for access to the British territory, prosecutors said. Fahie agreed to let thousands of kilos of cocaine pass through his ports to be sold in the United States because of his greed, arrogance and corruption, prosecutors added, claiming Fahie needed the bribery payments to build a waterfront mansion in the British Virgin Islands. He is all in he has no reluctance and no hesitation, prosecutor Kevin Gerarde told jurors during closing arguments. Hes not playing Jason Bourne, fellow prosecutor Sean McLaughlin said, referring to the fictitious CIA agent of book and movie fame, who was trained as an undercover assassin and believed his former bosses were out to kill him. What he is, is a politician on the take, McLaughlin added, referring to Fahie. Fahies defense team argued that he had no intention of using his power to enrich himself on cocaine shipments to the United States. Rather, his lawyers argued that he was framed by the United Kingdom, which controls the BVI archipelago as an overseas territory. Nonetheless, the trial evidence revealed that the sting operation was directed by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, not the British government. At the time of the DEA sting, the U.K. government was concluding a corruption investigation of Fahies administration but British authorities noted it was not related to the DEAs sting. Visit to Miami led to his demise Fahies demise came on April 28, 2022, when he and BVIs port director, Oleanvine Pickering Maynard, were visiting Miami for a cruise convention. During their visit, they were lured to a Miami airport to check on a huge cash payment that was promised to them by the DEA informant pretending to be a member of the Sinaloa cartel. The sting culminated with the arrests of Fahie and Maynard, 61, leading to an indictment charging them with conspiring to import cocaine and engage in money laundering, along with attempted money laundering and racketeering. Maynards son, Kadeem Stephan Maynard, 32, was also arrested in the Caribbean, brought to Miami and added as the third defendant. After his arrest, Fahie was granted a $1 million bond and allowed to live with his daughter in South Florida. But Fahie was stripped of his official position as BVIs premier, which he held from February 2019 to early May 2022. READ MORE: British Virgin Islands premier gets new $1M bond in Miami drug case, but isnt free yet Prior to his trial, two co-defendants pleaded guilty to the cocaine-smuggling conspiracy. Oleanvine Maynard, the former BVI port director, testified against him. Fahie and Maynard were arrested by Drug Enforcement Administration agents when the foreign officials went to Miami-Opa-locka Executive Airport to check out the purported $700,000 cash payment on an airplane that they believed was destined for them in the British Virgin Islands, according to court records. Maynard and her son, Kadeem Maynard, both detained in Miami, admitted in plea deals that the scheme involved agreeing to provide protection for the DEA informants purported shipments of thousands of kilos of cocaine through the Island of Tortola in the British Virgin Islands to the United States in exchange for a cut of the multimillion-dollar profits. In November, Kadeem Maynard, 32, was sentenced to nearly five years in prison. His plea agreement did not require him to testify at Fahies trial. Kadeem Maynards attorney, Jose Rafael Rodriguez, argued that he played a relatively minor role in the cocaine import scheme by introducing the DEA informant to his mother, and coordinating meetings between the informant, the mother and BVIs premier, Fahie. In her plea agreement, Oleanvine Maynard admitted that she introduced the informant to Fahie and together they used their authority to facilitate the purported cocaine-smuggling plan. She is scheduled for sentencing after Fahies trial. Series of cryptic meetings The U.S. undercover probe began in the fall of 2021 with several mysterious meetings between the confidential DEA informant posing as the Mexican drug smuggler and a group claiming to be Lebanese Hezbollah operatives with connections to the Caribbean territorys leaders, according to a criminal complaint and affidavit filed in the case. With their help, the informant eventually met up with Kadeem Maynard, his mother, Oleanevine Maynard, and subsequently Fahie, BVIs premier. He then lured them into providing protection for purported Colombian cocaine shipments through the British Virgin Islands to Miami, prosecutors said. In return, the informant, who claimed to be working for the Sinaloa cartel, promised to pay the premier and port director $700,000 at first and millions later as their cut of the planned cocaine shipments all during recorded meetings in the British Virgin Islands and Miami in March and April 2022, according to court records. Both Fahie and Oleanvine Maynard, who were in Miami for a cruise convention, went to the Opa-locka airport after the DEA informant and another undercover operative told them that it was their initial payoff, according to the affidavit. Throughout the affidavit, the DEA informant emphasized the critical role of the British territory an archipelago with a population of only 30,000 that is adjacent to the U.S. Virgin Islands in the Mexican cartels purported drug-smuggling operation. In one recorded meeting in Tortola, the informant described how the transport plan would start with a test run of 3,000 kilos of cocaine to Miami and eventually make them rich. At one point during a meeting on April 7, 2022, with BVIs premier, the port director and her son, the informant gave Fahie $20,000 saying this is a good faith gift to seal that we have an agreement, according to the affidavit. Despite the gesture, Fahie still seemed suspicious of the DEA informant, asking him if he was an undercover operative. The informant said he was not and told Fahie: Well, first of all, youre not touching anything, a reference to the planned shipments of cocaine. Fahie replied: I will touch one thing, the money. COFFEE COUNTY, Ala. (WDHN) A former Enterprise resident has been sentenced after standing before a Coffee County Judge and admitting he sodomized a young girl. On Thursday, 38-year-old Jeremy Stiven was sentenced to 27 years in prison after pleading guilty to five counts of sodomy. Coffee County District Attorney James Tarbox tells WDHN that Stivens crimes took place in November 2020 and involved a 10-year-old girl. Due to the nature of the case, Stiven will serve his time in the Alabama Department of Corrections without the chance of an early release. It was important to me and our office that our minor victim be protected as much as possible in this process, as well as that this defendant receive a significant punishment for the vile and disgusting conduct he committed, said DA Tarbox. Todays plea agreement accomplishes both goals because our minor child victim will be spared having to testify at trial, and this defendant will be incarcerated for decades to come. DA Tarbox says Stivens time in the Alabam prison system will have to wait until he is done serving a 15-year sentence in Michigan on unrelated sexual charges. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDHN - wdhn.com. Not long ago, a video surfaced of House Speaker Mike Johnson appearing before the National Association of Christian Lawmakers. He told a tale of how the Lord came to him in a series of visitations and began to wake me up in the middle of the night to prepare him for a mighty role. The humble Johnson fancied himself an Aaron, Mosess sidekick. But in time, in Johnsons telling, the Lord made it clear to him that he was Moses, and He urged M.J. to be prepared, because were coming to a Red Sea moment. Well, Moses, it looks like the Red Sea just crashed down on your head. If this blockhead has the Lords blessing, Id sure hate to see where hed be without it. Just three and a half months into the speakership, hes making Kevin McCarthy look like Cicero. It was just hilarious to see him have to announce on the Alejandro Mayorkas impeachment vote that the ayes were 214 and the nays were 216 and the resolution is not adopted. And minutes later, a stand-alone Israel aid bill failed, with 14 Republicans jumping the leaky Ship Johnson. The week has been humiliating for Republicans on many fronts. Donald Trump had his preposterous immunity argument mercilessly shot down by the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals. Mitch McConnell was forced to pull an embarrassing about-face on the border bill, voting against a bill that hed been promoting for weeks. Even Nikki Haley found a new way to shame herself, losing 2-to-1 in the Nevada primary to none of these candidates. Trump did seem to secure a coming win in the Fourteenth Amendment case, but that was largely expected, and it happened in spite of his lawyers awful performance. These things arent accidents. Theyre all part of the same pattern and are happening for the same reason. Republicans today are consumed by this primal need for immediate gratification. Theyre the party of the dopamine rush. Go read an article about the brain, and youll learn in five minutes that dopamine helps regulate pleasure, and pleasure is great, but too much dopamine leads to delusions, hallucinations, schizophrenia, psychosis. The entire party has a massive and collective mental disorder, a severe chemical imbalance in what remains of its collective brain, which explains why it kneels so slavishly before a psychotic man with the emotional regulation of a 5-year-old. Like rutting ungulates, they are incapable of anything remotely resembling thought and respond only to the stimuli right in front of their noses. Deliberation, caution, calm reflection these are the qualities that most of us have in more or less equal measure to the desire for gratification. These are the qualities that are most in harmony with the habits of democracy. To be small-d democratic is to deliberate; to think things through a little. This countrys Founders believed profoundly in this, which is why they built so many choke points into our democratic processes (too many, as it turns out). They wanted future generations to think stuff through. But these people are stuck in the land of anti-thought. And because thats where they live, it means that in many respects its where we all have to live, because thats where a lot of our national debate plays out. The border debate is a perfect example. There are a lot of problems with U.S. border policy. Undoubtedly some of them are the fault of Democrats. Its reasonable that people should want more control over the border. But at the same time, its a complex problem, and any real solutions are complex too. Oklahoma Republican Senator James Lankford, to his credit, tried to acknowledge that reality. And what happened? He was brutally shut down. It was chiefly Donald Trump, but it wasnt only Trump. One right-wing talk radio host threatened to destroy him. But its not just the border. Its everything. The Mayorkas impeachment. I suppose there are many grounds from a conservative point of view on which to think hes doing a lousy job. Thats fine. But a high crime or a misdemeanor? Ridiculous. That doesnt matter, though. The mere word impeachment makes the mules rut, and there ends the discussion. James Comer and Jim Jordan are another primo example. They just go on Fox and Newsmax and say shit. Its not about facts or methodically building a case. Its all about the dopamine rush of being on national television and saying titillating things that rile people up and get the checks rolling in. When they have to walk it back two days later, nobody cares. In fact, theyve accomplished what they wanted to accomplish, which is to add to the general picture of murkiness surrounding Hunter Biden or whatever. And they walk out of that studio feeling eight miles high. And thats where our political debate takes place now. It used to be that dopamine-rush politics was occasional. Both sides did it on issues that clearly worked to their advantage, as Democrats still do. But with the GOP today, thats all politics is. The immediate gratification of having scored a point, trolled a lib, won a little wedge of Fox airtimeand most of all pleased Donald Trump. No one could succeed in this degraded and juvenile context. Not even Moses. I hope the Lord levels with Johnson soon. This article first appeared in Fighting Words, a weekly TNR newsletter authored by editor Michael Tomasky. Sign up here. Tonight continues our slow increase in cloud cover, but were staying dry. A south wind and the clouds will keep temperatures from dropping nearly as far as previous nights this week, with lows in the low 40s. Friday brings our rain chances back after a week of dry weather, with a few showers expected. The morning will be pretty dry, with only an isolated sprinkle or two but our chances for rain will begin to increase more for the afternoon with a trough scooting through the area. Despite the clouds and showers, its a very warm day on the way with highs in the upper 50s. Saturday will provide a better chance for showers, as a cold front moves through the region. The air behind this front is not much colder but the changing of air masses will give us a good bet for showers in what will be a day of off-and-on showers with highs in the mid to upper 50s. Expect wet roads at times during the day for those weekend travels. Sunday will be drier than Saturday, with a couple of showers still possible with our cold front shifting down to our south and east. Temperatures will be slightly cooler in the low to mid 50s but well have a peak or two of sunshine around to wrap up the weekend. Fun gifts for your kids to put in Valentines Day goodie bags for school Monday brings forth the risk for more showers in the afternoon as our front continues to meander close by down to our south and east and nudges a little closer north toward our area with an area of low-pressure riding along that front. Mostly cloudy skies and showers are a good bet, with highs in the mid 50s. As we head into the overnight hours, we will see temperatures drop down to around freezing that will allow a few snowflakes to mix in. Other than perhaps a light accumulation of snow on the high peaks of Pocahontas and Greenbrier counties, for most of us its a non-issue on the wintry front aside from wet roads. Tuesday will be cooler with rain and snow shower chances persisting as our low-pressure system moves through the region and then off to the east. Some brief morning mountain snow is possible but for most of us, its a plain cold rain that will enable ponding on area roadways. Well be much colder in the temperature department, with highs in the upper 30s. Valentines Day brings an isolated snowflake or two in the morning with clearing skies for the afternoon with high pressure briefly in control. Well see highs in the low 40s. Thursday provides the chance for a few morning flurries and afternoon showers with a weak clipper system scooting by. There will be plenty of dry time in store with highs in the mid 40s. Looking ahead, although we are warm for now and will continue to be through the middle of the month, there are signs of a cooler pattern returning for the end of the month and into the start of March. In addition, our pattern will be a little more active than the docile stretch weve experienced these past few days. Help us with our growing community of weather photos with #weathertogether. Head to our website and search for the Weather together tab and upload your photos of weather going on around our region. Click here to upload your weather photos to our online weather gallery! TONIGHT Mostly cloudy. Lows in the low 40s. FRIDAY Rain showers return for the afternoon. Mostly cloudy. Highs in the upper 50s. SATURDAY Rain showers likely. Highs in the upper 50s. SUNDAY Few showers, afternoon clearing. Highs in the low 50s. MONDAY Few showers, especially in the afternoon. Highs in the mid 50s. TUESDAY Showers likely. Brief morning mix. Colder. Highs in the upper 30s. VALENTINES DAY Isolated flurry or two early. Partly sunny. Highs in the low 40s. THURSDAY Isolated snow flurry early. Sprinkle chances in the afternoon. Highs in the mid 40s. FRIDAY Mostly sunny. Highs in the 40s. SATURDAY Partly sunny. Highs in the 40s. SUNDAY Few showers. Highs in the 40s. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS. The U.S. military on Friday identified the Marines who were killed in a helicopter crash in Southern California this week. The 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (3rd MAW), which the Marines were assigned to, said the service members were each part of the Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361 and Marine Aircraft Group 16 under 3rd MAW. All five Marines, who died while piloting a CH-53 Super Stallion from Nevada to California, were based out of San Diegos Marine Corps Air Station Miramar. Lance Cpl. Donovan Davis, 21, of Olathe, Kansas, and Sgt. Alec Langen, 23, of Chandler, Ariz., both of whom were helicopter crew chiefs, were among the deceased. The other three were helicopter pilots: Capt. Benjamin Moulton, 27, of Emmett, Idaho; Capt. Jack Casey, 26, of Dover, N.H.; and Capt. Miguel Nava, 28, of Traverse City, Mich. The Marines went missing in the early morning hours of Wednesday after their helicopter was reported overdue. Emergency personnel from San Diego County and the state of California, along with 3rd MAW, conducted an exhaustive search for the Marines but were only able to locate the downed helicopter. A recovery effort is still underway. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The Minnesota Department of Corrections will soon seek citizen help with deciding who gets out of prison and who remains locked up. Because of a 2023 change by the Legislature, Corrections Commissioner Paul Schnell will no longer make release decisions on his own. Starting in July, a new citizen panel will decide which inmates serving life sentences are released and which stay in prison. "This has been one of the most incredible experiences of this job, the parole responsibilities," Schnell said. "It's really brutally difficult, and yet I've met some of the most incredible people." The idea behind the change is to have a broader group of Minnesotans decide who is released rather than only the commissioner making the call. Schnell said the new approach will be more open and balanced, including appointees from both political parties. A simple majority of the panel will determine what happens with a release request. Until 1982, the state Board of Corrections decided who was paroled. That board was abolished and the authority was vested in the commissioner. When he was appointed by Walz five years ago, Schnell said he wasn't initially aware that the commissioner made these decisions on his own. "One of the things that the governor and I talked about was this is an incredible responsibility and perhaps this is one of those places where there should be a higher level of shared governance," Schnell said. Walz said Wednesday he supported the change as a way to bring in experts and depoliticize the process. He will appoint the members, but the legislative caucuses will make recommendations. The board will handle requests from inmates serving mandatory minimum life sentences, most of them convicted of first-degree murder. About 500 inmates are in that category and most will be paroled at some point, Schnell said. Those inmates must serve 30 years before seeking release. The board will also consider rapists sentenced to mandatory minimums of 15 years. Under the current system, the number of inmates granted release has varied and climbed in recent years as more inmates became eligible. Since 2019, Schnell has held 318 parole hearings and released 46 inmates. Before him, Commissioner Tom Roy held 272 hearings and released 51 inmates. Roy served under DFL Gov. Mark Dayton from 2011 to 2018. Commissioner Joan Fabian served in the role under GOP Gov. Tim Pawlenty from 2003 to 2010. Fabian held 196 hearings and released 17 inmates. Commissioner Sheryl Ramstad served from 1999 to 2002 under Gov. Jesse Ventura. She conducted 140 hearings and released 12 inmates. No commissioner before her paroled more than nine inmates. Ramstad is among the more than two dozen Minnesotans who have applied. Schnell wants more applicants. "We believe there are people out there who would certainly qualify," he said. There's no deadline to apply, but Schnell encouraged anyone interested to apply soon, with training starting in mid-April. Two of the positions require a background in neurology, psychology or something similar with knowledge of adolescent brain development. The other four positions require a background or experience or a degree in the law, criminal justice, sociology, corrections or a related social science. More information, including the names of applicants, can be found on the state's website. The panel will review information from a variety of sources including prison staff, prosecutors, the community and surviving family members of the victim. Schnell will chair the panel and be joined by four public members. In cases where the inmate was a juvenile when the crime was committed and tried as an adult, an additional two members will join the panel. "The decisions are not easy to make because there may be people that are opposed. Some of these decisions come up against general public sensibilities," Schnell said. Board members will receive a $250 daily allowance. They must commit to two to four full days of hearings per month and are expected to serve four-year terms. They will also be required to do significant homework, reviewing documentation, including information about crimes, community impact, victim sentiment and the inmate's life in prison. Appointees must meet with victims' families and visit at least one state correctional facility a year. "I've met so many people who lost loved ones to the actions of another person, and I've been struck by their unimaginable pain and their incredible resilience," Schnell said. "The role has also provided me the opportunity witness to incredible change and transformation by some of the people who've engaged in conduct for which there is no explanation or ability to remedy." Dr. Elaine Brown Provided by Covenant Health Plainview Dr. Elaine Brown Provided by Covenant Health Plainview Covenant Health Plainview has a new practicing physician specializing in obstetrics and gynecology. Dr. Elaine Brown joined the team in January and is now seeing patients at the Covenant Health Plainview Rural Health Clinic at 2222 W. 24th St. Sitting with The Herald in her new office with bare walls except for a small cross, she said it's good to be home. Well, relatively close to her home. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Brown was born in Iowa and grew up in West Texas. Science was always a great interest for her. The Amarillo graduate found herself on the path to medicine. She went to school at Texas A&M and went to medical school at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. She completed her residency in Boston. After Boston, Brown traveled all over the world and practiced medicine in Guam before moving to Hawaii. She's also practiced in Montana, in Boston and in Dallas. Brown specializes in obstetrics and gynecology. "I like working with women," she said. As an doctor in this branch of medicine, Brown sees patients with interfility struggles, she helps women through their prenatal care, she delivers babies and, perhaps one of her favorite parts of the job, she also provides after birth care. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Getting the chance to provide these services to an otherwise underserved part of the world is what led her to practice in Guam. She maintained a busy schedule with a steady stream of patients in a population that needed her services. It reinforced the reason she got into medicine - a desire to help people. Of course, the tropical climate added to the appeal as well. Hawaii, she said, has been her favorite place to live and to practice. It's a busy island with just as much of a need for her specialty surrounded by ocean and a tropical breeze. It was hard to leave but it's expensive to live there, she said. She looked at her options inland, which were plentiful because her specialty is in high demand. There's a nationwide shortage of physicians with OBGYN specialties, especially in rural communities. That need is one of the reasons she was drawn to Plainview. She was also enticed by the idea of being in the vicinity of where she grew up. Brown interviewed back in July 2023, she said. She and her family have spent the past few months tying loose ends and getting settled to start life in Plainview. She is married and has four kids including a daughter who is a recent college graduate interested in medical school, and triplet sons who started the new semester at Plainview High School. Advertisement Article continues below this ad So far, she said, the town has been great and the people are friendly. She hopes to be here for a long while. She was ready to get started seeing patients as soon as she was able. Brown joins an elite group of physicians in Plainview as an OBGYN. There are just two OBGYNs here and a few more family practice physicians. She was drawn to obstetrics by a deep understanding of the specialty both from the physician side and the patient side of things. One thing she says she likes to tell patients is she's experienced it all. "I've been through just about everything myself," Brown said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) Victims of radioactive contamination are refusing to be ignored by Congress. Thursday, a group returned to the Capitol demanding lawmakers compensate additional victims of the Manhattan Project in their foreign aid package. My son is 18 years old, he wasnt alive for WWII, is a sacrifice for WWII, says Dawn Chapman a mother from St. Louis. Chapman and Missouri state Legislature Rep. Chantelle Nickson Clark are among the victims from St. Louis who say they and their families have paid the price. Im a two-time breast cancer survivor, said Nickson Clark, My mother died from breast cancer, my aunt died from breast cancer. I have a nephew who had a brain tumor we all lived and raised in North County. Sen Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) who met with victims Thursday, is promising to file an amendment to an upcoming foreign aid package to help Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan. There is nothing more serious, foundational, fundamental to our national security than to take care of the Americans who have literally given their lives in defense of this country, says Hawley. Although Congress reauthorized funding for communities already recognized under the Radiation Exposure and Compensation Act. The extended funding to help victims in Missouri and New Mexico was stripped out of last years defense bill. It passed with bipartisan support in the Senate. Hawley says the new version covers victims in even more states like Tennessee, Alaska and Kentucky, home of Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell. My message to leadership and certainly to Leader McConnell dont let Americans die, says Hawley. McConnells office did not reply to a request for comment. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. A Republican candidate for Missouri secretary of state posted a viral video to her campaign account on X (formerly Twitter) showing her proudly incinerating LGBTQ+ literature with a flamethrower. Valentina Gomez, 24, is the young far-right wannabe politico behind the video. In Missouri, the duties of the secretary of state happen to include administering the Missouri State Library. That includes promulgating regulations on materials available at public libraries throughout the state. Jay Ashcroft, the current secretary of state running as a Republican candidate for governor, has garnered a reputation for being extremely anti-LGBTQ+ and pro-book ban by instituting aggressive regulations on librarians across Missouri. He also is outspoken about his support for criminalizing librarians for simply doing their jobs. Under his tenure, in part, Missouri is one of the worst U.S. states for book censorship. PEN America ranked Missouri after only Texas and Florida as one of the worst states in the union to read controversial literature in public and school libraries. This all stems from the far rights obsession with LGBTQ+ peoples private lives, attempting to oust the topic from the national culture. Books such as the award-winning graphic novel Gender Queer: A Memoir by illustrator Maia Kobabe or Queer: The Ultimate LGBTQ Guide for Teens by writers Kathy Belge and Marke Bieschke are considered obscene by folks like Ashcroft and Gomez. Queer is one of the books burned in Gomezs video and the camera makes sure to capture its title, written in the rainbow colors of the Pride flag. The imagery isnt subtle. Civil libertarians and LGBTQ+ rights activists have rightfully challenged a variety of similar laws passed by hard-right state legislatures across the United States. Book bans are proving to be unconstitutional and a direct violation of the First Amendment and the protected right to read, for both young people and adults. Even the notoriously conservative U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals blocked a law in Texas that could ban or restrict library books. The three-judge panel found that Texas has absolutely no right to enforcing a regulation that violates federal law. The panel found the legislation was unconstitutional. Gomez adds a sinister dimension, though. One of four vying for the Republican nomination, she posted this text with her viral video: When Im Secretary of State, I will BURN all books that are grooming, indoctrinating, and sexualizing our children. She concluded the post with MAGA and America First. Echoes of historical campaigns against minorities The distinctly unqualified Gomez offers no sort of a strategy beyond burning books. While there is clear evidence this is a ploy to grift Republican primary voters for money, she undeniably displays that she is a believer in conspiracy theories and bigotry. At this point, though, all of this is well beyond Gomez and her electability. Remember when state Sen. Bill Eigel went viral last September? The Republican candidate for governor posted a similar video to his social media accounts of himself brandishing a flamethrower. While he didnt burn actual books, he burned boxes and used rhetoric that led people to think they were full of books. The far-right Eigel, accompanied in the video by GOP state Sen. Nick Schroer, used tropes similar to Gomezs. What is the purpose of the book burning imagery for these politicians especially Gomez, who actually carried out the act? Historically, book burning has been used as a ritualistic tactic by individuals who have a cultural, religious, spiritual or political opposition to the subject matter of the books being burned. Its political theater at its most extreme a performative aspect of censorship campaigns throughout history. Just like burning the American flag, burning a book is a protected form of expression. The doctrines of free speech and hate speech are very complicated. Gomez made a political statement in the spirit of her far-right ideology. Unfortunately, that is beside the point. We sometimes make comparisons of current events to atrocities of the past too glibly. But would-be politicians obliterating representations of minority communities with violence literally cant help but be reminiscent in many peoples eyes of the organized campaigns of Nazi brownshirts and the Deutsche Studentenschaft in the spring of 1933 to burn all books that werent compatible with Nazism or the genocidal horrors of Adolf Hitler. Gomez is contributing to a cultural movement seeking to stamp out queerness in American culture. So have Eigel and Ashcroft. There is very little that can justify this type of behavior and hatred. If, by some chance, a candidate as extreme as them were to take office, our state would slide into a dark age for free expression. Is this what Missouri Republicans stand for? Michael McGrady Jr., writing from Springfield, is a journalist and commentator covering censorship on the internet. The two candidates challenging Modesto Mayor Sue Zwahlen in the March 5 primary election have legal histories that include being arrested and having criminal charges and civil actions filed against them. Dewey Bedford Jr. and Sebastian Jones are vying to succeed Zwahlen, who is seeking a second term. The Modesto Bee routinely backgrounds candidates seeking public office. Zwahlen, 69, was cited in 2009 for using a cell phone while driving, and she paid $149 for the infraction, according to Stanislaus County Superior Court records. The legal issues for Bedford, 46, in Stanislaus County include his pleading nolo contendere in 2009 to the misdemeanor of disorderly conduct related to loitering, prowling or wandering on private property, and having the DMV place holds on his license twice in 2004 and once in 2014. Two of the holds were for failing to appear in court on traffic citations, and one was for failing to pay a traffic fine. The California Labor Commissioners Office filed judgments totaling more than $16,600 against him in 2014 and 2015 for not paying four employees in his social media marketing business, BU Universal. The Bee asks candidates to fill out a questionnaire. Besides asking for biographical information and why a candidate is running, the questions include whether a candidate ever has been found guilty or pleaded guilty, no contest or nolo contendere to a crime. Candidates are asked whether they have been sued or been a defendant in another civil action or had a judgment filed against them. Bedford answered no to both questions. When he was informed that those answers did not match public records, he said, I think I rushed through it. ... That (the court cases) are not on the forefront of my mind. He submitted a second questionnaire acknowledging the court cases but he did not provide specifics as requested. Bedford said he has faced his challenges in life, including losing his job and not being able to pay his bills. But he said the experiences will make him an effective mayor because he can empathize with the many other Modesto residents who have faced similar hardships. I went through life solo, he said. I made some mistakes, and committed to some things and could not finish them. ... Sometimes things dont work out. That does not make me a bad person. Bedford said he is a full-time parent. He also serves on the citys Culture Commission. He suggested that as a Black man, he faced unequal treatment regarding the disorderly conduct. He also had been charged with felony attempted burglary and misdemeanor contributing to the delinquency of a minor, but those charges were dismissed. The way the system works for minorities is sometimes they get you and they have to keep you in the system, he said. I wanted to fight the loitering charge but did not have the manpower or resources, so I accepted. He attributed the problems with BU Universal to a business partner. Bedford said the partner was responsible for the companys finances. The partner left Modesto because he was having marital problems, Bedford said. I understand the people who are very upset, he said. I could not pay my rent, either. Bedford could not provide the partners name or address when asked. And the Labor Commissioner Offices complaints list Bedford as the only defendant. Bedford also confirmed that he pleaded no contest to misdemeanor grand theft in Santa Barbara County in 1998. He said he was attending Santa Barbara City College and working at Macys. The Santa Barbara County Superior Court website states he was sentenced to 10 days in jail, 63 hours of community service and 36 months of summary probation. Bedford said he pleaded no contest because he declined to help authorities identify the Santa Barbara City College students suspected of shoplifting at the department store. Bedford said he had no involvement in the theft and it was not his job to find the suspects. I pretty much went down for somebodys else crime, Bedford said. I ended up serving three days in jail. Candidate Jones was arrested at his home in 2008 A Stanislaus County sheriffs deputy arrested Jones at his west Modesto home in March 2008 on suspicion of hitting his former girlfriend twice in the face, according to records obtained by The Bee. The woman alleged that Jones continued to call her after she ended their relationship and that she went to his home to tell his wife about the calls, according to the records. The womans front teeth were pushed back from the impact of being struck, according to the records. The woman could not be reached for comment. Jones said the woman was the aggressor, was trespassing, struck him, and he was defending himself and his wife, according to the records. While the woman left, Jones asked her to stay and asked his wife to call the police, according to the records. A judge ruled at Joness September 2009 preliminary hearing that there was sufficient evidence for Jones to stand trial on the battery charge. But during questioning by Joness attorney at the preliminary hearing, the woman acknowledged she had hit Jones in the past, talked to him on the phone after his arrest and in 1989 was accused of threatening Joness wife with a butchers knife. The woman denied making a threat. She hit me in the head when I first met her, and I ended up with stitches and in jail because they turned it (the incident) around, the woman testified. The District Attorneys Office filed two more felonies against Jones in October 2009: assault and attempting to prevent the woman from reporting the incident. A judge dismissed all the charges against Jones in 2011 at the request of his attorney. Jones, 61, said in a text message to The Bee: The legal system, through its due process, concluded that the the allegations against me were without merit ... . Jones and his wife had two unlawful detainers filed against them. Landlords file these court actions to remove tenants. Jones reached a settlement in a 2018 case in which the court ruled he and his wife did not have to pay rent during the four months they contested being removed from their home, their landlord would provide them with a neutral statement and dismiss the unlawful detainer. Jones would not be reimbursed for repairs he made, and he and his wife would have to leave the rental. But in a 2011 case, the court ruled in favor of the landlord and said Jones and his wife owed $2,145. Jones said the rental was not properly maintained and had rats, a leaky faucet that caused extensive water damage and malfunctioning electrical outlets. Jones says hes working to resolve lien against him The California Franchise Tax Board filed a $10,514 lien against Jones, according to records at the Clerk-Recorders Office. The lien was for the 2006 tax year and includes unpaid taxes, penalties, interest and fees. The lien was refiled in 2019 for $14,794, reflecting additional interest and fees. Jones said in an interview he believes the lien is a bookkeeping mistake and former employees of his now-defunct funeral escort service are responsible for the taxes. He said will try to find his former bookkeeper and resolve this. Jones is a community activist, executive director of the nonprofit Martin Luther King Jr. Committee and serves on the citys Board of Building Appeals. He also is a Black man. Regarding his court cases, Jones wrote in a text: ... Ive seen firsthand how complicated and unfair the legal system can be, especially for folks who dont have much, and even more so for people of color. The challenges we face arent just about the legal issues ... but also about the biases that can influence these situations. Its shown me what many people in our city are going through, particularly our communities of color ... . Jones answered no to the question about whether he ever had been the defendant in a civil action. He said in a text that he answered no because he was fighting for what he believed was right: safe, habitable housing for everyone. Liens filed against Bedford over unpaid wages In awarding four former BU Universal employees $3,687 in unpaid wages for several weeks of work, as well as $12,973 in damages, penalties and interest, a hearing officer said they provided credible evidence and testimony, according to court records. The records state Bedford was properly notified about the hearings but did not attend them or provide a written response to the claims against him. He was having us sell social media to local businesses to give them more exposure, said Alejandro Rocha, one of the former employees. We would go around Modesto talking to local businesses .... . He wasnt paying us. I lasted about a month and then I left. I never received a check and just left. Bedford said he was not notified about the hearings and learned about them only from The Bee. He claimed the employees were unpaid interns. The Labor Commissioners Office filed four liens against Bedford on behalf of the four employees. The office also filed a fifth lien on behalf of another former BU Universal employee for $4,040 in January 2015. That employee had also filed a complaint against Bedford with the Labor Commissioners Office, but the court records no longer exist. Bedford satisfied that lien in full and it was released in February 2015, according to the Clerk-Recorders Office. The four other liens remain in effect. Off-duty deputy calls 911 Turlock police arrested Bedford and a 14-year-old boy on Feb. 9, 2009, after an off-duty sheriffs deputy reported seeing the teen in his backyard and both of them in his neighbors backyard around 11 a.m., according to documents obtained by The Bee. The deputy said he was upstairs when he heard his doorbell ring. He looked out a window and saw the teen in his backyard, according to the documents. The off-duty deputy said that as he called 911, he saw the man and the teen in his neighbors backyard. Turlock police arrested the man and the teen a short time later and not far from the deputys home. The deputy identified Bedford and the teen as the people he had seen, according to the documents. The District Attorneys Office charged Bedford with felony attempted burglary, misdemeanor disorderly conduct and misdemeanor contributing to the delinquency of a minor. Bedford pleaded to the disorderly conduct charge. He was sentenced to 30 days in jail, which was stayed, and 36 months of informal probation. Bedford said he did nothing wrong. He said he was dressed in a suit and he and the teen were going door to door selling wireless phones and services. I didnt go into anyones backyard, he said. Im an earner. I dont steal. One Grand Strand restaurant was reported to have mold in its cooler, as well as molded food items, while another had mouse droppings, according to recent restaurant inspections. The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control does health inspections for restaurants within Horry County and the surrounding area, with data current as of Feb. 07, 2024. These were the worst restaurant inspections in the Myrtle Beach area. China Town Location: 2608 Main Street #G, Conway Score: 79 percent S.C. DHEC inspected the Conway restaurant Jan. 29, 2024 and found multiple violations. An employee did not wash their hands after handling raw chicken before they began cooking, according to the inspection report. Soups were at the incorrect holding temperatures, which the inspection noted was corrected. The S.C. DHEC inspection also reported that China Town did not have a discard time for products such as sweet and sour chicken that required one. S.C DHEC also noted China Town corrected the violation. The chicken was improperly thawing in a prep sink; a cell phone was on a prep table; and egg rolls and ribs were stored in a residential refrigerator, which isnt permitted and is a consecutive violation for China Town, according to the report. China Towns most consistent violation was an accumulation of grease and grime. The reported noted grime on a wok table, the sides of fryers, cracks between equipment, shelves, walk-in freezer, and behind or under all equipment and the residential refrigerator. China Town is required to have a follow-up inspection in 10 days before Feb. 8, 2024, according to S.C. DHECs inspection. The report concluded that a failure to address violations will result in a downgrading for China Town. Fudi Mart Location: 901 Highway 17 North, Surfside Beach Grade: 80 percent S.C. DHEC inspected Fudi Mart Jan. 31, 2024, and found several violations. There was mold in a walk-in cooler and molding food containers in the same cooler, according to the report. The inspection reported that both instances of mold were corrected. There was no probe thermometer at the restaurant to test food temperature, and no sanitizer testing devices were at the eatery, according to the inspection. There were other violations, too. The hand sink for employees had supplies in it close to the boba tea area and food was not stored at the proper temperatures, although these issues were also addressed according to the report. The inspection found ready-to-eat food held for longer than 24 hours, a consecutive violation; bottles of chemical spray stored improperly close to food-making materials; a bottle of pesticide was next to where boba tea was made; and other violations, although all were corrected during the inspection according to the S.C. DHEC report. The inspection noted that Fudi Mart must have a follow-up inspection within 10 days. The restaurant could be downgraded if Fudi Mart cannot address its violations. Wendys #213 Location: 2625 Dick Pond Road Grade: 81 percent S.C. DHEC inspected the Wendys site Jan. 29, 2024, finding several violations. Food pans had soiled surfaces, despite being designated as clean, the report noted. A bottle of chemical spray sat next to the coffee maker, and the standing freezer and fans in the walk-in cooler had a build-up, while the make-top cooler refrigerator had soiled surfaces, according to S.C DHECs report. The inspection also wrote that the violation was corrected. Chicken nuggets were not held at the correct holding temperatures, a priority violation that was fixed according to the report. Cheese was also not held at the correct temperature, which was fixed that day the report noted, and other violations were also discovered by DHECs report. The inspection noted that Wendys #213 is required to have a follow-up inspection within 10 days. The restaurant could be downgraded if the Wendys location cannot address its violations. Country Corner #7 Location: 410 E Brooks Road, Andrews Score: 83 percent S.C. DHEC has repeatedly found violations at Country Corner #7 in Andrews, and the department found more when it inspected the eatery Feb. 2, 2024. The inspection found mice droppings, including on a shelf of a prep table and the floor throughout the eatery. The inspection reported this issue had not been corrected. Ready-to-eat foods, specifically smoked sausage and corned beef hash, had no expiration date, although S.C. DHECs report noted the violation was remedied during the inspection. S.C. DHEC also found contact paper covering shelves throughout the restaurant, a violation, and grease and grime build-up in the kitchen, on ceiling tiles, and the fryers. The inspection also found debris build-up on a shelf below a prep table. Country Corner #7s C grade will stand, according to the S.C. DHEC report, for not correcting violations. The report also noted a 10-day, onsite follow up is required. Spring Festival travel rush mirrors bright future of China 09:44, February 09, 2024 By Shi Ling ( People's Daily Passengers waiting for trains to stop at the Changzhou Railway Station in Changzhou, east China's Jiangsu province, Feb. 3. (Photo by Chen Wei/People's Daily Online) Long Fei, a migrant worker that works in south China's Guangdong province, returns to his home in Guizhou every Chinese New Year. Many years ago, Long and other fellow migrant workers working in the Pearl River Delta region often rode motorcycles back home due to China's limited transportation capacity and short supply of train tickets during the Spring Festival travel rush. Thanks to the continuous development of transportation networks in recent years, they can return home for the Chinese New Year taking high-speed trains or airplanes today. Long has bought a car and now drives home with his wife and daughter for the Chinese New Year. The declining number of migrant workers riding motorcycles back home for the Chinese New Year exactly reflects the changes and progress in China's Spring Festival travel rush. According to estimates by China's Ministry of Transport, approximately 9 billion passenger trips will take place during this year's Spring Festival travel rush. The traditional transportation sectors - railways, highways, aviation, and shipping - will all be operating at full capacity. Newer forms of travel such as road trips, ride-sharing, and car rentals will also provide diverse options. People visit a scenic spot in Shaoxing, east China's Zhejiang province, Feb. 3, 2024. (Photo by Zhou Wei/People's Daily Online) Huge numbers of trips are being made for family visits and tourism, and by students and migrant workers returning home. The mobility mirrors China's continuous economic recovery and social vitality. The changes in the Spring Festival travel rush not only affect people's choices of transportation but also impact consumer demands. This year, it is estimated that 7.2 billion trips will be made by car, accounting for 80 percent of the total. Nowadays, people can enjoy family gatherings and reunion dinners without being confined to their homes, as their mobility has been significantly facilitated by vehicles. They can go for trips whenever they want. In addition, various transportation means such as high-speed trains, airplanes, and rental cars are working in close collaboration, allowing people to go to different destinations. The diversification of travel choices not only facilitates people's travels but also fuels a more vibrant Spring Festival consumer market. The tense Spring Festival travel rush has brought pressure to related service sectors, but it has also presented opportunities for development. Train stations opened up exclusive channels for passengers with special needs; airports upgraded services for first-time travelers, ride-hailing platforms increased capacity allocation, and highway service areas have provided catering, repair, and medical services to drivers. These thoughtful services have turned travel from a matter of "just getting from A to B" into a pleasant experience people can truly enjoy. Police officers help a woman with mobility problem enter the Jinhua Railway Station in east China's Zhejiang province, Feb. 5, 2024. (Photo by Hu Xiaofei/People's Daily Online) Relieving the pain points of Spring Festival travelers can uncover new opportunities for the development of the transportation industry. Factories are working overtime to increase production; logistics companies are working to ensure stable supply chains, and retail, hospitality and tourism businesses are fully prepared to meet customer demand. This coordinated effort across the production, logistics and service sectors to provide uninterrupted offerings is fulfilling people's travel needs during the Chinese New Year, tapping into the potential of the Spring Festival market, and demonstrating the resilience of the Chinese economy. In recent years, China has built the world's largest high-speed rail network, highway system, and world-class sea ports. This extensive transportation infrastructure has stimulated investment, boosted development, and met the travel needs of the people. In the past, Chinese people would take long journeys before reuniting with family during the Chinese New Year, and today, they are spending the festival wherever they want. People used to carry large bags filled with gifts when visiting their parents, now thanks to online shopping, the goods can be delivered home directly. People's increasing demand for a better life provides impetus for advancement across many industries, including transportation. The continuous growth in passenger flow unleashes stronger consumer drive, greater economic vitality, and larger development potential, reflecting the essence of "Spring Festival travel rush economy" where supply and demand mutually promote each other and drive the formation of a higher level dynamic equilibrium. The development of the Spring Festival travel rush is a history of population mobility. In the 1980s, with the opening of the urban-rural migration, there was a surge in migrant workers going out to work, which contributed to the rise of the "world's factory" and created the phenomenon of the Spring Festival travel rush. Nowadays, more people are going to other places for education and business opportunities, and then returning to contribute to the development of their hometowns. This is a process in which individuals grow in sync with the pace of the times, and their personal aspirations resonate with the development of the nation. In the new era, various factors are flowing freely, and the channels for development are more open, providing unprecedented opportunities for talents from all walks of life to strive for success. The stable train ticket prices, the significantly improved train speeds, and the increasingly convenient journeys back home have become a vivid portrayal of Chinese modernization, which aims to balance efficiency and fairness and allow the general public to better share the benefits of development. In the Spring Festival travel rush, we can see a bright future of China. (Web editor: Cai Hairuo, Zhong Wenxing) About 60 people gathered United Assembly of God Monday night (Feb. 5, 2024) for a candidate forum. Ellysa Harris/Plainview Herald Amber Bellows, president of the South Plains Republican Women, tells attendees she hopes the candidate forum (Feb. 5, 2024) sheds a bit more light on candidates to help voters make more informed decisions. Ellysa Harris/Plainview Herald Karen Post, a candidate for State Representative for District 88, speaks about why she's running during a public candidate forum for local candidates on Monday night (Feb. 5, 2024). Ellysa Harris/Plainview Herald Harold King, incumbent, speaks about why he's qualified to run for re-election for County Commissioner of Precinct 1. Ellysa Harris/Plainview Herald Dan Schafer speaks about why he's qualified to run for election for County Commissioner of Precinct 1. Ellysa Harris/Plainview Herald Dustin Spann speaks about why he's qualified to run for election for County Commissioner of Precinct 1. Ellysa Harris/Plainview Herald Vicki Milner, incumbent, speaks about why she's qualified to run for re-election for County Commissioner of Precinct 3. Ellysa Harris/Plainview Herald Tim Abel speaks about why he's qualified to run for election for County Commissioner of Precinct 3. Ellysa Harris/Plainview Herald Terry Timms, incumbent, speaks about why he's qualified to run for re-election for Hale County Constable, Precinct 3. Ellysa Harris/Plainview Herald Andrea Lopez speaks about why she's qualified to run for election for Hale County Tax Assessor-Collector. Ellysa Harris/Plainview Herald Amber Bellows, president of the South Plains Republican Women, introduces the next candidate during the Candidate Forum hosted by SPRW Feb. 5, 2024. Ellysa Harris/Plainview Herald Ray Perez speaks about why he's qualified to run for election for Hale County Constable, Precinct 3. Ellysa Harris/Plainview Herald Troy Bollinger talks about his qualifications for the seat of District Attorney for the 64th Judicial District. Ellysa Harris/Plainview Herald Karen Post speaks about why she's running for State Representative of District 88. Ellysa Harris/Plainview Herald Israel Flores, incumbent, speaks about why he's qualified to run for re-election for Hale County Tax Assessor-Collector. Ellysa Harris/Plainview Herald Wally Hatch, incumbent, talks about his qualifications for the seat of District Attorney for the 64th Judicial District. Ellysa Harris/Plainview Herald Karen Post speaks about why she's running for State Representative of District 88. Ellysa Harris/Plainview Herald Candidates of the contested local races in Hale County gathered at United Assembly of God Monday night for a candidate forum. The event was hosted by the South Plains Republican Women organization. Amber Bellows, president of the organization, presented the candidates and gave the welcome. The forum was attended by mostly elected officials and people who wish to be elected or re-elected, as well as their families. Bellows said it was meant to be a public event for candidates to share a quick appeal to constituents for votes. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Candidates got five minutes each to introduce themselves and tell a crowd of about 60 people why they believe they should get the vote. Attendees also had a chance to write questions for the candidates as they signed in and waited for the event to begin. Candidates got one additional minute to speak per question, though only one question - the same one - was asked of several. Hale County voters have options for five local races in the March 5 primary election. Candidates include Wally Hatch (incumbent) and Troy Bollinger, both running for District Attorney for the 64th Judicial District; Israel Flores (incumbent) and Andrea Lopez, both running for Hale County Tax Assessor-Collector; Harold King (incumbent), Dan Schafer and Dustin Spann, all running for County Commissioner of Precinct 1; Vicki Milner (incumbent) and Tim Abel, both running for County Commissioner of Precinct 3; and Terry Timms (incumbent) and Ray Perez, both running for Hale County Constable for Precinct 3. Karen Post, a Plainview transplant, is also running against incumbent Ken King for State Representative of District 88. All candidates except Ken King were present Monday night. Bellows noted that he had a prior commitment for the evening. The candidates shared mostly about their personal backgrounds. Here are a few goals and qualifications for the position noted by each candidate. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Commissioner Candidates Precinct 1 Harold King is the incumbent. He talked of his desire to promote growth for Hale County, particularly through the Plainview-Hale County Economic Development Corporation. Dan Schafer said Plainview's been good to him since he moved here and he believes joining the Commissioners Court is a good way to give back. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Dustin Spann he wants to show his boys that they can make a difference in their community by taking a stand to serve the best they can. Precinct 2 Vicki Milner spoke for only about one minute and shared that she grew up in the area and was appointed to the position in March 2022 and elected for a full term in November 2022. She also shared about her experience as a CASA volunteer. Tim Abel said if elected, he wants to establish a good relationship with all Hale County employees, he wants to work on upkeep of county roads and he wants to focus on the project to create a new Hale County Jail. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Constable Candidates Terry Timms is the current incumbent. He pointed out his efforts to stay within his budget as constable and how he's only had two vehicles since he took the position in 2010. Ray Perez talked about his family and his experience throughout his law enforcement career. Tax Assessor-Collector Candidates Advertisement Article continues below this ad Israel Flores, incumbent, spoke about his experience in the position so far. He spoke about his biggest focus being keeping an eye on the county's investments. Andrea Lopez spoke about her bookkeeping experience and her experience working in the Tax Assessor-Collector's Office under former longtime Tax Assessor-Collector, Roland Nash. She was one of the indidividuals who fielded a question. Asked about what makes her more qualified than her opponent, Lopez said she's willing to work hard for the county. District Attorney Candidates Wally Hatch, incumbent, spoke about his experience working in the office since he was elected in 2005. Asked about what makes him qualified, Hatch said he worked as Plainview's City Attorney prior to taking the seat of district attorney. His work experience in both positions, he believes, is what gave him a better understanding of various city and county departments making him better qualified. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Troy Bollinger highlighted the backlog of cases in Hale County. Bollinger said that's one thing he'd like to tackle. Asked about his qualifications, he talked about his trial experience and his overall work experience. District 88 State Representatives Ken King, incumbent, was absent. Karen Post talked a little about her desire to focus on prospering the district she'd represent, including Hale County. She noted a few goals she'd like to tackle include getting people out to vote and focusing on better border control. On March 22, 2019, special counsel Robert Mueller submitted his report on possible collusion between the Russian government and Donald Trumps 2016 presidential campaign to thenAttorney General William Barr. Almost a month later, Barr issued a redacted version of the report, with a statement asserting that Mueller had found no persuasive evidence of conspiracy or collusion between members of the Trump campaign and Russian agents. The attorney general further noted the Justice Departments firmly held position that a sitting president cannot be indicted, and Mueller supported him on that point, asserting that indicting a president would be unconstitutional. Most Americans, hearing of this official departmental policy, would likely assume it was based on some provision in the U.S. Constitution. However, while the Constitution provides for a process of impeachment and conviction by the House and Senate of federal officials for high Crimes and Misdemeanors committed in the political realm, it is silent on the question of their exposure to the regular criminal justice system. Whence came this mysterious Justice Department policy? The U.S. government has been operating since 1789, but this policy has been in effect only since 1973, meaning that we survived 184 years without this policy. In an article appearing in The New York Times opinion section prior to the release of the Mueller report, attorney J.T. Smith II, who was an executive assistant to Nixon Attorney General Elliot Richardson during the Watergate scandal, explained the origins of the policy. The principal purpose of the 1973 Watergate-era legal opinion, he wrote, which concluded that a sitting president cannot be indictedwas to aid in removal from office of a criminally tainted vice president, who, the memo concluded, could be indicted. New Republic staff writer Matt Ford followed up on J.T. Smiths Times piece, conducting an interview with Smith for TNR a few months later. In the summer of 1973, Smith explained, Vice President Spiro Agnew was under investigation by the U.S. attorney in Baltimore for accepting bribes when he was a county executive and then governor of Maryland, and even after he became vice president of the United States. Agnew was arguing, through his attorneys, that he was not subject to criminal prosecution but only to impeachment. Agnew went so far as to file a motion in court making this contention. Attorney General Richardson enlisted Solicitor General Robert Bork to do an analysis of the Agnew matter, and he turned to Assistant Attorney General Robert Dixon and the Office of Legal Counsel regarding whether the VP and president could be criminally prosecuted. Dixon found the matter vexing and ended up telephoning Smith and probing for kind of offline advice as to how the attorney general hoped the opinion would turn out. Smith said to Ford: I remember telling him that he certainly hopes it would find the vice president to be subject to criminal process. I dont recall saying, and he wanted it to say that a president wasnt. But anybody of more than average intelligence at the time kind of knew that that was the best way for it to turn out. Smith elaborated: There were three ways for the memo to turn out: neither subject to criminal process; both subject to criminal process; or vice president subject to criminal process, president not. And that was the only outcome that was, for lack of a better word, sustainable in the context how it had arisen (emphasis mine). He also added: Its a matter of historical fact that the original Office of Legal Counsel memo saying that a sitting president isnt subject to criminal process wasnt prepared with that being its primary purpose. Its purpose was to say that a sitting vice president was subject to criminal process, and then the analysis was prepared by way of a distinction between the two offices. Rachel Maddow, in an interview with NPRs Terry Gross concerning Maddows 2020 book, Bag Man, which recounted Agnew financial misdoings while in office, offered a view of how the effort to distinguish President Nixons liability to impeachment from Vice President Agnews might have turned out differently. Prosecutors, she recounted, went through an elaborate choreography to make sure that by the time Agnew got into the courtroom where he was to be sentenced, he had resigned from the vice presidency. Why did they take such pains to achieve that particular sequence? Had he resigned as vice president moments after he pled or after he was indicted, Maddow asserted, we would have an entirely separate legal precedent on this casethat a president or vice president could be indicted. In this case, they sidestepped that issue by allowing him to resign. Mr. Attorney General, I dont see how you can permit the Office of Legal Counsel to continue promulgating an opinion that originated as the product of temporary expediency, which many notable scholars believe has no basis in U.S. constitutional law. Yes, the opinion was reconfirmed by the Office of Legal Counsel in 2000, apparently in order to shield President Bill Clinton after he faced impeachment, making the whole matter even more confusing than it already was. And you owe it to your country to abolish this policy, because if you had launched an immediate investigation of the insurrection Donald Trump provoked on January 6, 2021, we would not now be facing the possibility of time running out for the various legal actions Trump is finally confronting before the election. Trump might become president again, free under current Justice Department rules to break any law he wants to during his second tenure in office. I dont think you want that to be your major legacy, Mr. Attorney General. A Justice for Joshua billboard on Military Street in Port Huron on Feb. 9, 2024. Several billboards calling for justice have been posted around the city. The Michigan State Police investigation into the death of Joshua Conant outside the Roche Bar in Port Huron on Nov. 4 has been completed. Lt. Kim Vetter said detectives working on the case had received the full autopsy report and were ready to submit their findings to the Michigan Attorney General's Office. Vetter did not share the details of that investigation. It will be up to the attorneys reviewing the investigation to determine what charges, if any, should be filed in response to Conant's death. Conant died after several bouncers employed by Roche Bar pinned him down outside the bar's entrance on Quay Street, police have said. Conant's death sparked outcry from his friends, family and the wider Blue Water Area, with the slogan "Justice for Joshua" appearing on billboards and bumper stickers. Conant's family held a vigil near Quay Street shortly after his death, and a memorial was set up outside the Roche Bar for several weeks. More: Family removes memorial left for Joshua Conant Roche Bar has remained closed since the incident. The owner has not responded to requests for comment. The Michigan Attorney General's Office did not respond to a request for comment Friday. St. Clair County Prosecutor Mike Wendling recused himself from the case, saying he was friends with Joshua and his family before the incident and that he also knew the owner of Roche Bar. Joshua's father, Michael Conant, declined comment Friday. More: Port Huron Police find no fault in officer response to Joshua Conant's death In January, the Port Huron City Council voted to fund defibrillators in every patrol vehicle after Conant's family pointed out most of the department's vehicles did not have one for resuscitation. Vetter said the investigation into Conant's death took months because of the wait time for the results of his autopsy, including blood tests and tissue examinations. Contact Johnathan Hogan at jhogan@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Port Huron Times Herald: MSP completes investigation into Joshua Conant's death Green lights illuminate Beaumont Tower on Monday, Feb. 27, 2023, on the MSU campus in East Lansing. Before the green lights were turned on at 8:18 p.m., the carillon played 'MSU Shadows.' The song was followed by eight bell tolls in honor and remembrance of the three killed and five students injured in the Feb. 13 tragedy. EAST LANSING Michigan State University is organizing a day of events in remembrance of the Feb. 13, 2023, mass shooting on campus. Campus events will take place throughout the day Tuesday, culminating with an evening vigil. On-campus events There will be no classes for MSU students on Tuesday. Classes will resume Wednesday, but the university said no assignments or exams will take place that day. University facilities will remain open Tuesday, including dining halls and gyms. Services such as counseling and CATA buses will continue. The Gilbert Pavilion at the Breslin Student Events Center will host a luminary pickup and decoration event from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday. Luminaries, provided by the United Resiliency Center, include a green, battery-operated tea light and a white paper bag. Other locations where they can be picked up include the Common Ground United Resiliency Center, 1504 E. Grand River Ave., the East Lansing Hannah Community Center, 819 Abbot Road, and the East Lansing Public Library, 950 Abbot Road. A luminary lighting event will take place from 8 to 8:25 p.m. Feb. 13 at Lot 62 during the remembrance event. On Tuesday, Reflective Spaces staffed with counseling support will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Brody Hall, Room 175, the Main MSU Library, in the Green Room W444, the International Center, and the Hannah Community Center, in Recital Room 246. From 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, the Alumni Memorial Chapel will host religious leaders representing a spectrum of denominational beliefs who will be available to provide support. Counselors will be available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, support dogs will be available in the Eppley Center, Room E105. No counselors will be there. The Healing Through Kindness and Service event will take place in the International Center, Room 115, as well as at the Hannah Community Center in East Lansing. The event, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., invites students, faculty, staff and community members to drop in and participate in kindness activities, such as note writing, gift-making or volunteering for service activities. A shuttle will be available between the two locations from 9:45 a.m. to 3 p.m. Evening vigil and luminary lighting From 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., MSU will host an evening remembrance in Lot 62, north of Spartan Stadium. At 8 p.m. the luminary lighting will take place. A program will begin about 8:10 p.m. Moments of silence will take place at 8:18 p.m. and 8:25 p.m. The gathering and program will be livestreamed starting at 7:30 p.m., and will be hosted at https://spartanstogether.msu.edu/feb-13-2024-gathering-livestream. Other events East Lansing Public Schools will not conduct classes Feb. 13. The East Lansing City Council meeting for that day was canceled. Contact Sarah Atwood at satwood@lsj.com. Follow her on X, @sarahmatwood. This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: How MSU plans to observe Feb. 13 one year after mass shooting [Source] The Academy Award-nominated short film Nai Nai & Wai Po" was born out of the emotional juxtaposition of joy and silliness amid the backdrop of anti-Asian hate crimes. First-generation Taiwanese American director Sean Wang, who had been living in New York City for over five years, decided it was time to return home in 2021 to the Bay Area where his grandmothers resided. At the time, his homecoming coincided with the rise of anti-Asian hate crimes, especially in San Francisco, where 84-year-old Vicha Ratanapakdee was shoved to the ground while he was out on a morning walk. The Thai immigrant's eventual death helped galvanize what would be known as the Stop Asian Hate movement. The surge in violence and racism against the Asian American community brought Wang to a headspace of anger, pain and worry for his grandparents. I had this thought that when I do eventually move out of the Bay Area, that could very likely be the last time I see my grandmas, Wang tells NextShark. And so it was all of those feelings kind of coming together and kind of becoming this. I just wanted to make something that captures their humanity, captures their spirits, captures the essence of who these two amazing people are in my life for myself or my family for future generations. And that was sort of the seed that became this movie. Trending on NextShark: Viral video of daughter slapped by her father after return home from Tet sparks debate The 16-minute film became Wangs personal love letter to his grandmothers on both of his parents side (Nai Nai and Wai Po), who are inseparable best friends and roommates in their 80s and 90s. The short, which features dialogue in both Mandarin and English, is a multigenerational story that captures the womens daily lives through amusing and unexpected glimpses as they dance, cook, clean and even fart their sorrows away. Beyond the comedic aspects, the narrative evolves into a thoughtful contemplation on lives marked by a blend of joy and pain, while challenging the stereotype that growing older must inevitably lead to fading away. They're incredible, Wang says about his grandmas. They're magic. They are the most pure form of joy in my life. And when I'm with them, I think you can feel it in the film, there's this sort of silliness and youthfulness that they bring out of me, and hopefully, that I bring out of them. Trending on NextShark: Angela Chao, CEO of US-based shipping company Foremost Group, dead at 50 Filming "Nai Nai & Wai Po" marked a departure from Wang's typical projects. He says that the production lacked a definitive shot list, characterizing the collaborative process with producer Sam Davis as akin to making a movie before we knew how to make movies. I had been living with them for a few months before we shot, and I was just like, What do I want to remember? What are the images that I see on a daily basis right now that I want to kind of have? And that was them reading the newspaper together, it was Wai Po washing the dishes, it was her playing the piano, it was my grandma looking at her notepad with the microscope, like that was all very specific things that I wanted to capture, Wang shares. The production involved a balance of directed scenes and spontaneous moments, with Wang acknowledging the presence of his filmmaker's touch in the film. Despite some prompting, his goal was to maintain authenticity, allowing the audience to feel the honest dynamics of the relationships portrayed. Trending on NextShark: Hermes hands $4,300 bonus to all 22,000 staff after strong late 2023 Asia sales They're doing stuff that is definitely prompted, but in a way that feels honest to the relationship that we have, Wang says. Because as much as this movie is about them, and for them, it's also a movie about them making a movie with me. And so we kind of want it to have that feeling of them being aware that a movie is being made while we're making it. The resulting film reflecting Wangs deep love for Nai Nai & Wai Po would eventually go on to win the Grand Jury Prize and audience award at SXSW and the Grand Jury Awards at AFI Fest and SIFF 2023 before earning an Oscar nomination on Jan. 23. It was acquired by Disney in November 2023 and will be available to stream on Disney Plus and Hulu on Feb. 9 as part of the first installment of Disneys People and Places relaunch, which pays homage to Walt Disneys documentary film series from the 1950s and 1960s. Trending on NextShark: Young Chinese women are resorting to AI boyfriends for better communication Aside from the hype around his short film, Wang recently premiered his feature film DiDi in competition at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, where it received the Audience Award for U.S. Dramatic film. DiDi is a coming-of-age story and semi-autobiographical film that follows an insecure 13-year-old Taiwanese American who navigates adolescence before entering high school. The movie, which marks the first release for Estradas Antigravity Academy, was recently sold to Focus Features. Although Wang admits to feeling overwhelmed by all the recognition and accolades he has received, he reminds himself that they are not his primary reasons for creating films. Wang reflects on a shift in his approach to filmmaking, admitting that he once placed substantial importance on external validation from prestigious festivals like Sundance and South by Southwest. However, as he matured in his craft, he redirected his focus toward personal authenticity and the intrinsic value of a project. He says the heart behind a film is invaluable and costs nothing, emphasizing the importance of creating work that holds personal meaning. The achievements, while appreciated, have become secondary to the genuine connection he feels to the stories he tells. Although Wang expresses happiness and excitement about the film's success, he underscores that true success, in his view, lies in creating films that resonate personally, independent of external recognition. Oftentimes, it's easy to get distracted from this simple ethos, which is, heart doesn't cost anything, Wang shares. You can have the most high-profile projects with name, talent or expensive equipment. But at the end of the day, the projects that are the most meaningful, that you often are able to make the most honest and meaningful, are the ones that are closest to home. And that access, those relationships, that doesn't cost anything. That comes from a human level, and like that the heart of this movie really didn't cost that much. But it was the fact that we decided to do it that made all the difference. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nai Nai & Wai Po (@nainaiandwaipo) Asked about his upcoming projects, Wang humorously mentions his immediate focus on eating a fruit bowl, later emphasizing his current need to recharge after years of working on his feature film. He conveys his intention to take a moment to reset and echoes the importance of ensuring that his next project aligns with the heartfelt approach seen in his recent works. Now that there's a lot of other stuff coming at me, Im making sure I'm not just saying yes to things because they are shiny, he says. There needs to be a sort of a beating heart underneath because it takes a long time to make stuff. It's hard. So I want to make sure if I'm gonna spend three or four years of my life working on something, thats something that really excites me. Download the NextShark App: Want to keep up to date on Asian American News? Download the NextShark App today! NASA's Juno spacecraft has made a second flyby of Jupiter's moon Io, capturing the solar system's most volcanic body in stunning detail. The spacecraft also allowed operators to glimpse a side of Io not seen in 35 years. The images of Io were taken last week, made possible by the Feb. 3 flyby that saw Juno dip to within 930 miles (1,500 kilometers) of the surface of the Jovian moon. This close approach, which matched Juno's last Io flyby on Dec. 30, 2023, in terms of distance, allowed the spacecraft's JunoCam instrument to capture several volcanic features of the moon, including actively erupting plumes, lava lakes and tall mountain peaks and the shadow they cast on Juno's surface. One of the most impressive images captured by Juno was snapped on Feb. 4 at the tail end of the flyby and shows two plumes escaping from the volcanic moon. According to NASA, the plumes were seen as the spacecraft was at an altitude of 2393.5 miles (3,852 kilometers) over Io. The image of the twin plumes, the source of which is not shown, is evidence of the ongoing volcanic activity of this Jovian moon. Related: NASA's Juno spacecraft will get its closest look yet at Jupiter's moon Io on Dec. 30 Volcanic plumes erupt from Io as seen by Juno on Feb. 4, 2024 Io is around the size of Earth's moon, but unlike the moon, it is littered with hundreds of actively erupting volcanoes that are capable of blasting material dozens of miles into the thin, waterless atmosphere of this Jovian moon. The source of Io's extreme volcanism is believed to be the gravitational influence of its host planet, Jupiter, and that of its three other large Jovian moons Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto which torture the innermost Galilean moon, named because they were discovered by Italian astronomer Galileo Galilei. This constant gravitational push and pull on Io generates tidal forces so intense that it can cause the surface of the moon to rise and fall by heights as great as 330 feet (100 meters), equivalent to the surface of Earth at New York suddenly jumping up above the Statue of Liberty. This also triggers extreme volcanism within Io. Another image of Io captured just after the flyby, this time on Feb. 5, shows the Jovian moon looking positively psychedelic. The image was created with data from multiple filters, and shows Io's dark left-hand side resplendent in greens and reds, while the illuminated right side takes on a suitably fiery orange hue. Multiple fractal filters/layers show IO rendered in psychedelic colours Another image snapped by JunoCam on Feb. 5 reveals the side of Io that permanently faces Jupiter, the 'sub-Jovian hemisphere.' a yellow-brown moon pockmarked with craters NASA says this is the first time that the sub-Jovian hemisphere of Io has been seen since the Voyager 1 spacecraft flew through the Jovian system in 1979. The sub-Jovian hemisphere is illuminated in this image thanks to light that bounces from Jupiter's cloud tops. This illumination allowed JunoCam to pick out several surface changes on Io being driven by volcanic activity. This includes a reshaping of the compound flow field at a region called Kanehekili in the center left of the image, which contains 2 persistent high-temperature hot spots and an active volcanic plume. To the east of Kanehekili, named after the Hawaiian god of thunder, Juno spotted a new lava flow. RELATED STORIES: Massive, months-long volcanic eruption roils Jupiter's moon Io See Jupiter's volcanic moon Io glow red-hot in incredible images from NASA's Juno probe Juno: Taking a Long Look at Jupiter The NASA spacecraft, now in the third year of its extended mission after its primary mission ended in July 2021, won't come as close to Io as this again. Each subsequent flyby after Feb. 3 will see it approach the volcanic moon at increasing distances. The next close approach will see Juno buzz at an altitude of about 10,250 miles (16,500 km), while the final flyby will bring the NASA spacecraft to within around 71,450 miles (115,000 kilometers) of the volcanic moon. Juno's extended mission investigating Jupiter and its moons is set to last until Sept. 2025, at which time NASA will intentionally crash the probe into the atmosphere of the gas giant. Russia continues to set up military camps for Ukrainian teenagers in the Russian-occupied territories of Zaporizhzhia Oblast, Ukraine's National Resistance Center reported on Feb. 8. Russian aggression has deeply harmed Ukrainian children and youth, facing abductions, physical peril, and efforts to suppress their identity in "re-education camps" and Russian "foster families." Moscow plans to open a "center for military-sports training and patriotic education of youth called 'Warrior' based on the 'Iskra' children's health camp," the National Resistance Center said in its Feb. 8 report. Teenagers will allegedly be taught firearms and engineering training. Ukraine's National Resistance Center said this is "preparation for service in the Russian army." The training will allegedly happen under the supervision of instructors from Russia. Ivan Fedorov, the newly appointed Zaporizhzhia Oblast governor, said earlier that Russia is militarizing residents of Zaporizhzhia Oblast, organizing the collection of drones in some educational institutions in Melitopol. Russia also allegedly plans to involve primary school students in labor lessons where they would study to assemble drones. Ukrainians living in Russian-occupied territories face repression due to their desire to educate their children according to the Ukrainian curriculum. Russian authorities are reportedly threatening parents and children and checking their devices for visits to Ukrainian websites. The Ukrainian military's General Staff reported earlier that Russian authorities threatened parents to take children away and give them to orphanages in Russia if the parents did not comply with the demands of occupying authorities. Since Russia's full-scale invasion, Russia has abducted over 19,500 Ukrainian children. So far, Ukraine has managed to repatriate 387 of these kidnapped children. Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The Navy is no longer immediately kicking out recruits who arrive at boot camp at Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Illinois, with detectable amounts of marijuana in their system. The service has expanded the authority to grant waivers for any recruits who initially test positive for THC, the main psychoactive compound in marijuana, Rear Adm. James Waters, the director of the Navy's military personnel plans and policy division, told a group of reporters Thursday. "If they fail that test and own up -- 'Yes, I smoke marijuana '-- we do an evaluation of the young person to make sure there's not something else going on," Waters said. "But we trust that through the process of boot camp that we have an opportunity to bring them along with our culture." Read Next: All 5 Marines Aboard Downed Helicopter in California Were Killed in Crash, Service Says Waters explained that the move was driven in part to be "reflective of where legislation is in society." "We recognize that many states have legalized marijuana," he said. However, the admiral stressed that there are no conversations about offering a similar leniency for any other drugs and noted that "we don't do drugs in the military." The move joins a host of other recent changes that the Navy has put in place to help reduce the number of sailors who drop out of boot camp and are unable to continue on in their military career. The result is that the current dropout rate in boot camp is around 10% -- one of the lowest in recent history. The move to decrease the number of recruits that the Navy loses throughout the boot camp process is part of its effort to deal with the recruiting crisis that has plagued all the services for the last several years. Waters' boss, Vice Adm. Rick Cheeseman, has previously said that only about 10% of scheduled recruiter appointments convert into sailors entering the delayed-entry program or boot camp after about five months. While that percentage increases if the potential recruit has mentorship from someone with Navy experience, according to Cheeseman, the sea service is still looking to minimize any further losses as those interested civilians become recruits and, eventually, sailors. "If we're going to recruit 40,000 sailors," Waters said, referring to the Navy's recruiting goal for 2024, losing 4,000 recruits through boot camp "is really, really unhelpful and so we want to try to continue to work on that." In addition to being more accepting of positive THC results, Waters noted that the pre-boot camp physical training regimen that the Navy borrowed from the Army is yielding results as well. "We have about 400 additional sailors in the Navy today because of the physical Future Sailor Prep Course," Waters said. Navy officials also noted that the prep course is having a secondary, positive impact on boot camp by injecting recruits with even just a few more weeks of Navy experience into the ranks of boot camp divisions. "I think having some of those young men and women to the right or left of you that kind of experienced [the Navy] a little bit helps tremendously to reduce that anxiety," Force Master Chief Delbert Terrell told reporters. "Recruit division commanders are actually competing for these kids as they come out of the Future Sailor Prep Course because they're more ready to run and lead in the boot camp," Waters added. In February 2023, the Navy also started to allow recruits to use alternative cardiovascular exercises to pass that component of the physical fitness test. In the fleet, sailors are able to complete that fitness requirement by swimming, biking or rowing, among other options. Before this change, sailors in boot camp were able only to run for their first test in the Navy. "We went from losing 400 to 500 a year because they couldn't finish the run to ... one," Waters said. "All it took was buying some bikes." Waters also says that he's not satisfied with the 10% dropout rate. "I want to get past that," he said. "I think Adm. [Craig] Mattingly, who is the commander there [at Great Lakes] wants to get past that," he added. Related: Navy's Personnel Boss Argues Dropping High School Diploma Requirement Has 'Minimal' Risk It's been tried before. Almost a decade ago, a Republican state lawmaker partnered with the Oklahoma branch of the American Civil Liberties Union and the Oklahoma Council of Public Affairs to try and reform the state's civil asset forfeiture system. They didn't get far. County sheriffs and the state's district attorneys pushed back against the idea. And though one bill limited in scope became law in 2016, not much has been done since then. Fast-forward to this week. Reforming the civil asset forfeiture system is back on the table after Gov. Kevin Stitt challenged state lawmakers to make changes during his State of the State speech. "We need to address civil asset forfeiture," the governor said Monday. "Its crazy to me that somebody can be pulled over and have their cash and truck taken for an alleged crime, get acquitted of that crime, but they still never get their property back. That isnt fair and we need to make sure it isnt happening anywhere in Oklahoma." Gov. Kevin Stitt presents his State of the State address to the joint session on the first day of the Oklahoma Legislature this week. Oklahoma lawmakers say they're unclear on details of any new plan to change civil asset forfeiture Stitt's call to change the system caught many state lawmakers off guard. Speaking at a news conference after the governor's speech Monday, Senate Pro Tempore Greg Treat said he was surprised Stitt raised the subject. "That's an issue that former Sen. Kyle Loveless talked about a lot when he was here," Treat said. "I remember the blowback that he received from law enforcement, so I actually was trying to look at (Public Safety Commissioner Tim) Tipton to see what his reaction was." But Treat, R-Oklahoma City, said those residents who had assets seized and were later not found guilty should have those assets returned. More: His son was critically injured during a traffic stop. It's changed Senate Pro Tempore Greg Treat's legislative goals "The way we do that, the way we go about it, it's a very complicated process," he said. "The governor, there's just a lot of issues that he brought up today, issues that we as the Senate have not talked to the governor (about). I don't know any details about what he's trying to accomplish. I don't know all the ins and outs." But Treat said that, philosophically, the government should be required to have "a very good case against someone" and prove guilt in order to take away property. "But I'm not well versed on this, so I'm gonna have to educate myself," he said. Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat greets a House sergeant at arms as he arrives for Gov. Kevin Stitt's State of the State address to the joint session on Monday, the first day of the Oklahoma Legislature. Last move to change Oklahoma's procedures for asset forfeiture nearly 10 years ago Records released by the ACLU of Oklahoma in 2015 showed at that time, over a five-year period, law enforcement officials in 12 Oklahoma counties seized more than $6 million in cash, almost $4 million of which was taken without any criminal charges. In addition, of the $6.1 million dollars taken, only $2.1 million was seized from people who were actually charged with a crime. According to the ACLU's report, Canadian county law enforcement officials took $2,733,956.88 in cash in 44 seizure cases. However, of those 44 cases, court records show that criminal charges were only filed in 23. In 2016, then-Gov. Mary Fallin, a Republican, signed a bill that gave judges the authority to award attorney fees to people whose assets were unjustly seized by law enforcement. Since, then, however, efforts to change the forfeiture process have been dormant.On Monday, Loveless, the former senator from Oklahoma City, said he applauded Stitt's calls for changes to the system, but added that the governor and reform supporters would have difficulty getting a bill through both houses of the Legislature this year. "I appreciate that he raised the subject," Loveless said. "But I think it would be hard to get done." Loveless isn't the only one. State Rep. Justin Humphrey, chair of the House's Criminal Justice and Corrections Committee, said he doubted too many lawmakers wanted to tangle with the District Attorneys Council during an election year. "There's a conversation to be had about it, but it's hard to get things moving up here," Humphrey, R-Lane, said. "The problem is that the DAs Council has had a very tight hold on things up here. I support the DAs 1,000 percent but I've also disagreed with them." In 2015, the state's district attorneys waged a session-long fight to defeat the reform measure. At that time they said forfeiture is necessary to combat drug trafficking and that abuses of the system were rare. Cleveland County DA Greg Mashburn told Oklahoma Watch in 2015 that Loveless "was hyping the issue and using scare tactics to push his bill." Im very concerned thats the line hes taking in that, said Mashburn in the article. Mashburn, both then and now, represents Cleveland, Garvin and McClain counties and sits on the commission overseeing the Oklahoma State Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs. In 2015 he said civil forfeiture "may be something we need to address at our next quarterly (commission) meeting, just to stay on top of it, because its going to be an issue that we need to address and educate people on. Theyre telling scary stories on the other side, and its just not accurate." The Oklahoman made numerous requests for comments from the state's District Attorneys Council about its opposition to changes in the forfeiture system but did not receive a response. House Democrats call changing civil asset forfeiture 'a bipartisan issue' While the Republican-controlled Legislature may be hesitant to embrace the governor's call, Democrats in the House of Representatives said they agree with Stitt. "It's a bipartisan issue," state Rep. Mickey Dollens, D-Oklahoma City, said. "We haven't whipped a vote in the caucus, but Democrats are supportive of changes. It all comes down to fairness." Rep. Mickey Dollens votes Jan. 31 during the third day of the special session of the House of Representatives at the Oklahoma Capitol Still, even though no legislation has been filed to date, Humphrey predicted the discussion about the issue over civil asset forfeiture would continue. "People are gonna keep talking about it," he said. "The governor raised the issue and there will be discussions about it this year." This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt wants civil asset forfeiture reform Say hello to Bryson, a wiz-kid in the fourth grade with a dazzling brain power that could light up a city! Provided by Saint Francis Ministries Say hello to Bryson, a wiz-kid in the fourth grade with a dazzling brain power that could light up a city! From Legos to science to Spiderman, the 10-year-old is a jack-of-all-trades when it comes to hobbies. And let's not forget about his legendary stuffed animal collection! While he might come across as a bit shy at first, once you get to know him, you'll discover a friend for life. Bryson's heart is full of love, and he yearns for a sprinkle of spiritual guidance, whether that be from learning to meditate when life is hard or going to church to learn more about God. Advertisement Article continues below this ad When it comes to dreaming of his ideal family, a single dad or a father figure with a charismatic personality and ability to have patience and understanding when things get tough would complete the desired dream team for Bryson. He'd also thrive in a household with no other kiddos or with older siblings who can show him the ropes as well as possibly be a mentor for Bryson to emulate. He's also a total animal whisperer! A sweet pup would be the cherry on top of his perfect family sundae! --- Bryson is among the children listed on the Texas Adoption Resource Exchange (TARE) website. Visit https://www.dfps.state.tx.us/Application/TARE/Home.aspx/Default for more details. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Saint Francis Ministries is a nonprofit organization and a community-based care provider for the Texas Department of Family Protective Services Region 1. This region includes 41 counties across the Panhandle and South Plains. To learn more about fostering or adopting, those interested are encouraged to attend one of the monthly virtual meetings hosted by Saint Francis Ministries and other child placing agencies. The meetings provide information about how to get started, the basic qualifications and more, in addition to providing opportunity for attendees to ask questions. Those interested can visit Saint Francis Texas on Facebook @SFMtexas to register for the online meetings, which can also be found below: The meetings are scheduled for the second Thursday of the month (Lubbock area https://lubbock-area-foster-care-adoption.eventbrite.com) and the third Thursday of the month (Amarillo area https://amarillo-area-foster-care-adoption.eventbrite.com). Advertisement Article continues below this ad TOKYO, Feb 09 (News On Japan) - New scene cuts from the upcoming animated film "Haikyuu!! The Movie: Battle of the Garbage Dump," based on the original work by Haruichi Furudate, have been released to the public. The film, which is set to premiere on February 16th, features exhilarating moments from the popular volleyball series. Among the newly revealed cuts are images capturing Hinata soaring high for a spike, Tsukishima and Yamaguchi sharing a high-five while Tobio and Tanaka express a mix of astonishment and admiration, and the Karasuno team brimming with fighting spirit across the net. Additionally, the official "Haikyuu!!" anime website offers an in-depth introduction to the members of the Karasuno High School Volleyball Club, perfect for fans to check out before the movie's release. "Haikyuu!! The Movie: Battle of the Garbage Dump" continues the story after the Inarizaki High School match depicted in the fourth season of the TV anime, focusing on the famed "Battle of the Garbage Dump" between Karasuno High School and Nekoma High School. The movie will also be available in IMAX theaters starting on the same day as its general release, February 16th. This animated film promises to capture the intense rivalry and sportsmanship that "Haikyuu!!" is known for, bringing the high-flying action and emotional moments of the manga and anime series to the big screen. Source: Natalie The site of the old Epicurean Restaurant in Dilworth remains vacant after it was closed and demolished about 25 years ago but a new fence is catching the attention of people passing by the property at East Boulevard and Scott Avenue. Selwyn Property Group is making plans for the property where the historic restaurant once stood before the doors closed in the late 1990s after being in business for about 50 years. But the firm said the public should not expect anything anytime soon. The 1-acre space at 1324 East Blvd. in the Dilworth neighborhood was once owned by the Castanas family. They had plans to build a new Epicurean restaurant with stores and offices, but couldnt get the financing. The property was listed for sale in 2018. A fence has been placed around the old Epicurean Restaurant property at 1324 East Blvd. in Charlotte. The building was demolished in the 1990s. A developer is making plans to build apartments or office spaces on the property. JEFF SINER/jsiner@charlotteobserver.com Looking back A corporate group affiliated with Selwyn Property and co-founder Grey Poole purchased the property in 2021 for $5.1 million from the family, according to previous reports. Charlotte council members approved plans proposed by Selwyn in 2020 to build 80,000 square feet of office space or 170 apartment units, The Charlotte Observer reported. Up to 10,000 square feet of retail space was approved through a zoning change. With the site being close to retail and major employers like Atrium Health, Poole told the Observer in 2021 that Selwyn was leaning toward building apartments. Plans were put on pause because of the pandemic, but the firm expected to start in 2022. So whats next for the site? After purchasing the site, Selwyn worked closely with the Dilworth Community Association to rezone the site for developing the property, Poole told The Observer on Wednesday. However, the start of construction of either multi-family or office development will not happen soon because of market conditions, Poole said. He said the firm will continue to follow the market closely to determine the appropriate time to move forward with building something. Poole said that a lot of capital markets, including banks, were sitting on the sidelines in 2023 when it comes to investments. Although a timeline for construction is not set, Poole said that something will be built this decade. Certainly, our site is only getting better, he said about the propertys value. Its a wonderful location and it has nothing to do with the dynamics of our site. We like whats going on with the hospital expansion and the construction of the medical school. Those are all going to be really positive things for us. So what about that fence? A fence was installed to prevent debris dumping and because telecommunications utilities on the site are being relocated. Most of those line are being put underground. so they wont impact our ability to construct the building, once we get started, Poole said. Hey, whats that? Curious about construction going on around the Charlotte region? Email reporter Chase Jordan with the location that you are curious about, at cjordan@charlotteobserver.com. Your suggestion may appear in a future story. She was pregnant, working a Wilmington corporate job and questioning her purpose in life. It was 1998, and Joanne Glauser remembers picking up a magazine to see bulky sneakers, white crew socks and painted walls of a California school staring back at her. The expectant mom, spending her days in the world of security and finance, found herself absorbed in a September issue of Family Circle. A young boy had come into his principal's office seven times complaining that his feet hurt, she read, until finally a secretary at the California elementary thought to take off his shoes. Turns out, the boy's feet had been crammed into sneakers two sizes too small. She massaged his feet until the toes could once again bend. Then, she put the shoes back on and sent him back to class. "The woman told me that there are so many needy kids, they didn't even know where to start," said Elodie Silva, quoted in the article from Sept. 15, 1998. Glossy pages in Glauser's hands celebrated how Silva then launched Shoes That Fit, the outfit quickly growing into a national organization from its small California epicenter. Back in Delaware, that clicked. Joanne Glauser and husband John established a Delaware chapter of Shoes That Fit, an organization aiming to provide free shoes for students in need, in 1999. Glauser and her husband, John, established a Delaware chapter of the organization by the next year, leveraging her connections at then-MBNA bank to garner funding and volunteers to support Wilmington students. Glauser started organizing coworkers, friends and even her own kids to volunteer. Over two decades, services grew to span all three Delaware counties, with a focus on providing something as simple as free shoes or uniforms to students experiencing housing insecurity. Before pandemic shutdown, Glauser was celebrated by her national office as having served tens of thousands of kids in the First State. Today, a bit like Family Circle magazine's folding in 2019, the future feels unclear. "Like right now, without getting some more support in Delaware, it could die with me," said the working mom of two, who is now nearing retirement. "My concern is, if for whatever reason, I'm not around anymore or nobody takes it up then that's just an opportunity that's lost in the state." Her national organization has revamped its efforts in the last year, aiming to help chapters capitalize on shoe partnerships with Nordstrom, Rack Room Shoes, Nike and more. Glauser hopes Delaware can get in on it even if shoes seem a small resource at first glance. "There are so many things that make you an outsider when you're trying to fit in at school," she said. "And if that's one thing that could bring them a little bit closer to being equal to their peers to being able to concentrate in school we should do it." Next read: They go to school in a Wilmington high-rise. Soon, these kids hope to see a safe haven Why should anyone care? Joanne Glauser and husband John established a Delaware chapter of Shoes That Fit, an organization aiming to provide free shoes for students in need, in 1999. It's about dignity. That's how April Anderson would explain it, and it's her career to explain it. She has worked within Red Clay district office for nearly a decade, serving as its liaison for special populations. Another name for the post is a McKinney-Vento liaison after the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act law, a 2001 federal law requiring all schools to minimize educational disruptions for students experiencing homelessness. "I think people would be amazed at the things, that we might consider minor, that stop a child from going to school," Anderson said. Some barriers would be unquestionable, from transportation to school when displaced, to assistance while awaiting foster care placement or getting the next meal. Others are small, like what to wear. "We have clothing closets in some of our schools that are actually filled with some of the sneakers that we've gotten from Shoes That Fit," Anderson said. "Since we have those resources in our schools, that's a safe opportunity for our kids to be able to get those basic needs without cost." From back-to-school events to resource closets and steady partnerships with schools, Anderson estimates over 200 students benefit from Shoes That Fit donations in her district, each year. Right now, she keeps track of about 400 youngsters facing homelessness from kindergarten to high school in Red Clay. Districts throughout the state face their own totals to support making up nearly 2.5% of all public school students, or just over 3,400 in Delaware, per National Center for Homeless Education figures in 2022. "The reality is, that's fulfilling a basic need. And we know that if those basic needs are not fulfilled that might lead to kids becoming more truant," Anderson said. "Even if it's in a small way, like providing them a pair of sneakers, I think that's worth exploring." And Glauser just wants to keep going. She works in information security by day, and she's a grant writer by night. Glauser wants to help more kids, but the work has gotten harder. She wants to bring an organization into the 21st century, with better online presence than an email and Volunteer Delaware listing. She's having Shoes That Fit participate in an upcoming DoMore24 campaign, hoping to encourage Delawareans to give to local nonprofits. "I'm trying to get moving again, now that the pandemic is over, there's a refocus, and I have the support of my national organization for this," she said, imagining she may retire in five to seven years. "That's the future of our state, right? Something as simple as making sure that they have the right shoes to wear, so they can engage in their education. It could change the trajectory of their lives." Medicare: Why is Delaware appealing ruling that blocked Medicare Advantage plan for state retirees? Got a story? Kelly Powers covers race, culture and equity for Delaware Online and USA TODAY Network Northeast, with a focus on education. Contact her at kepowers@gannett.com or (231) 622-2191, and follow her on Twitter @kpowers01. This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Next steps unclear for Delaware nonprofit providing shoes for students LEWISTON, N.Y. (WIVB) Residents along the Niagara River and Lake Ontario are calling on officials to take action after they say theyve seen an increase sighting of suspicious vehicles, and trespassing in their backyards. Since this past November, U.S. Border Patrol agents from the Niagara Falls Station along with state and local law enforcement have arrested numerous individuals from over 20 incidents of illegal Niagara River crossings. On Thursday, those agencies provided an update on whats being done to solve the problem. We have always had rafts and people crossing the river. Weve always had drugs crossing the river. Now, what has changed between now and then? Why are we having this discussion? Its the frequency, said Niagara Falls Border Patrol Agent-in-Charge Brady Waikel. During an open the public meeting Thursday, Niagara Falls Border Patrol said the last illegal crossing they intercepted was Thursday morning. They say these crossings usually happen at night, typically involving small groups of adult men. Were told these groups use various boats and rafts, with many of the attempts taking place off the Youngstown and Lewiston shorelines. Most of the people that were catching do have a status in Canada. Smuggling is illegal in Canada, but being someone from Colombia or Mexico that came in on a visitors visa into Canada, getting on a raft in the lower Niagara River is not against the law in Canada, continued Waikel. CPB, say they have a multi-layered approach to securing the border which includes the use of helicopters, drones, thermal cameras, and mobile surveillance systems. To help local law enforcement at the state level Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt is seeking changes to state measures like the Green Light Law, a law which prohibits CBP from accessing N.Y. Department of Motor Vehicles records and information. He says this disrupts inspections at ports of entry or when tracking down smugglers picking up individuals on the U.S side of the border. We can at least make the changes that allow federal immigration authorities to see the DMV database. We all need to work together to stop the bad guys, to catch the bad guys, to prevent terrorist attacks, to keep our community and country safe, said Ortt. Residents in the area are encouraged to call 911 or Border Patrol at 1-800-331-0353 to report any suspicious activity. Latest Local News Dillon Morello is a reporter from Pittsburgh who has been part of the News 4 team since September of 2023. See more of his work here and follow him on Twitter. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo. ALABAMA (WHNT) Just over four months after Decatur police officers shot and killed Steve Perkins at his home, the victims brother is joining state lawmakers in support of access to police body camera video. Nick Perkins and his family demanded that the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency release the footage of the September 29 shooting but were denied. Local doctor remembers writing song with Toby Keith State Sen. Merika Coleman is proposing legislation to make police body and dash camera video more available to the public. Specifically, it would change the law and make those videos public records. Perkins says the past four months have been difficult, especially not knowing how exactly the shooting occurred. The fact that from September to January, that much time passed, Perkins explained. That was a rough period, and this happens a lot with police departments and families. For anyone to not know what exactly happened to your loved one and you are in limbo, is a horrible feeling. Alabama Senate passes bill to put school curricula online Current Alabama law limits body cam video viewing only to a victims family but those requests can be denied by law enforcement if they said it would impede an investigation. There are a lot of questions that can be answered from viewing body cam footage, said Perkins. Perkins says he and his family fully support the proposal to overhaul the laws around body cam footage in Alabama. There needs to be more transparency between police departments and families when it comes to that subject. You really hurt families more when they dont know whats going on, Perkins said. Perkins will be the guest speaker at the Alabama Democratic Conference in Huntsville on Saturday. Perkins will speak about his brother and support for the body camera bill. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. (AURORA, Colo.) For Valentines Day, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) nurses are celebrating the first Valentines Day for the babies in their care. Childrens Hospital Colorado said the celebration at the Childrens Hospital Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora included dressing the babies in outfits and giving them handmade blankets. Courtesy: Childrens Hospital Colorado Courtesy: Childrens Hospital Colorado Courtesy: Childrens Hospital Colorado Courtesy: Childrens Hospital Colorado Courtesy: Childrens Hospital Colorado Courtesy: Childrens Hospital Colorado Courtesy: Childrens Hospital Colorado Courtesy: Childrens Hospital Colorado Courtesy: Childrens Hospital Colorado Courtesy: Childrens Hospital Colorado Courtesy: Childrens Hospital Colorado Courtesy: Childrens Hospital Colorado The special day was possible thanks to the members of the hospitals Sunshine Committee, a group of NICU nurses, team members, and volunteers who help families celebrate milestones and holidays so that their babies firsts are still special despite being in the hospital, according to Childrens Hospital Colorado. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado. Founder of Reform UK said he was shocked by the absolute reluctance to consider negotiations with Russia - Bloomberg/Al Drago Nigel Farage has suggested that the West should be more open to negotiating with Vladimir Putin. The founder of Reform UK said he was shocked by the absolute reluctance to consider negotiations with Russia since Moscow invaded Ukraine in February 2022. It comes after Putin, during an interview with Tucker Carlson, the US broadcaster, accused Boris Johnson of sabotaging a peace deal with Ukraine in the spring of that year. Responding to the interview, Mr Farage told GB News: After what was said last night, [Russia is] not going to stop and theyre switching vast amounts of their industrial production in Russia towards defence. They will never give up on this. Now, we can find much of whats happening abhorrent, but the thing that shocked me all the way through has been the absolute reluctance of anyone to think, shouldnt we at least be having some form of negotiations? In Thursdays interview, Putin claimed a peace deal was settled in Istanbul with Ukraines chief negotiator but scuppered by Mr Johnson. He said: Prime minister Johnson came to talk us out of it and we missed that chance. Well, you missed it. The fact that they obey the demand or persuasion of Mr Johnson, the former prime minister of Great Britain, seems ridiculous. Mr Johnson has previously dismissed the claims as total nonsense and Russian propaganda. Mr Farage said of the claims: I thought what was very interesting, and he has said it before, but he said it more forcefully, that peace negotiations could have happened. A deal could have been talked about that clearly, he would have wanted a deal on his terms, but a deal could have been talked about, but it was scuppered by Boris Johnson. Vladimir Putin accused Boris Johnson of sabotaging a peace deal with Ukraine in 2022 during an interview with Tucker Carlson, the US broadcaster - Gavriil Grigorov/Reuters Tobias Ellwood, a former defence minister, criticised Mr Farage over the comments, describing them as dangerous, defeatist and unpatriotic. It also fails to understand the bigger picture of where our world is heading, he said. Other adversaries, particularly China, will take note of our inability to remain committed and will take full advantage. He added that Farage needs to be careful he doesnt turn into Lord Haw-Haw, referring to the broadcaster of Nazi propaganda to Britain from Germany in the Second World War. Ben Wallace, the former defence secretary, said: Just as well Mr Farage wasnt in charge in 1939. We would all be speaking German. Mr Farage said: The relentless insistence on continued war is worrying. The death toll is horrendous and Ukraine are making no progress. Our country is not directly threatened by this so we could try to be a peace broker. It may fail, but its worth trying. Mr Farage also spoke about Putins threats of a global war if the US sent troops to Ukraine as the Russian leaders attempt to try and further manipulate debate in the United States where, right now, the funding for Ukraine is being held up in Congress. He said: I think what Putin sees is that in a long war, the West is getting tired of funding Ukraine. So I mean, it was used by him clearly, with strong propaganda purposes. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. For the record: 7:47 p.m. Feb. 8, 2024: A previous version of this article said that one commissioner compared a letter from the state board to a dog with no bite. The commissioner said a bite with no teeth. Nine months after state regulators ordered Los Angeles County officials to transfer hundreds of youths out of two troubled juvenile halls, they are now considering closing a third hall the one that probation officials recently reopened to appease regulators in the first place. The Board of State and Community Corrections sent a letter Wednesday to Probation Department Chief Guillermo Viera Rosa detailing numerous persistent problems inside Los Padrinos, including too few staff on hand, not enough safety checks and too little programming. The letter said the county had not followed its own plan to fix the facility's problems and that it was now at risk of being shut down after consistently failing to comply with a number of state regulations. Regulators were considering the same fate for the youths still at the Barry J. Nidorf Juvenile Hall in Sylmar, where inspections turned up similar issues. Read more: 8 L.A. County probation officers placed on leave for allegedly allowing beatdown at Los Padrinos The regulatory board informed the county Wednesday that it would meet on Feb. 15 and vote on whether the two facilities are suitable for juveniles. According to a spokesperson for the state board, members could decide at the meeting to order the facilities shut down, leaving the county scrambling, once again, to move everyone out. Its an embarrassing place for the county to find itself less than year after the same agency ordered all youths out of Central Juvenile Hall in Boyle Heights and most out of Nidorf. Youths accused of more serious crimes stayed at Nidorf's Secure Youth Treatment Facility because the regulatory agency didnt have oversight powers over this population. Gov. Gavin Newsom changed that in his budget last year. The state order, which came after years of failure by the county to make improvements, left county officials scrambling to figure out where to place 300 youths. They landed on Los Padrinos in Downey, which had been closed years ago after allegations of abuse by staff. But it became clear immediately the agencys problems were not going away with a new facility. Within a month of touting "mission accomplished," there was a chaotic escape attempt, a gun found at the facility, and persistent call-outs by staff who said they didnt feel safe showing up to work. Last week, the Probation Department reassigned a number of high-level supervisors to Los Padrinos due to "high levels of youth-on-youth violence, assaults on officers, widespread apathy among officers," according to an internal department document obtained by The Times. Viera Rosa, the probation chief, said in a lengthy statement Thursday that he agreed with the regulatory board that the facilities were struggling, but believed it had jumped the gun by deeming the new facility a failure. We have the dedication, we need the time, Viera Rosa wrote, adding he felt probation officials had been hamstrung by conflicting rules from various state agencies. The issues identified by BSCC and others have been persistent for over 20 years. We cannot piecemeal the solution. The complaints about violence, poor programming and staffing shortages at Los Padrinos echo those that have plagued the agency for years. Jerod Gunsberg, a criminal-defense attorney who often represents juveniles, said his clients housed at Los Padrinos often complain of "constant violence" and being confined to their rooms for hours at a time. He was not surprised to learn of the state board's findings, noting the department did nothing to fix the underlying issues that caused Nidorf and Central to falter before opening the doors at its Downey facility. It was a reactive measure," he said of the move. "It failed to address any of the issues that caused the crisis." Read more: From 'mission accomplished' to riot: Inside the chaotic first month at Los Padrinos The county watchdog for the department expressed skepticism at a Thursday meeting that the state board's letter which one commissioner compared to a bite with no teeth would actually lead to a shutdown of the troubled facilities, as well as frustration with the Probation Department for finding itself in regulators' cross-hairs yet again. "Some of these are easy fixes I mean, really easy fixes," said Sam Lewis, a member of the probation oversight commission as he read off the list of problems the state had found. "I don't understand why they're not being solved." The county supervisors had hoped Viera Rosa, himself a former member of the Board of State and Community Corrections, would help make Los Padrinos a success. Supervisor Janice Hahn, whose district includes the facility, said in a statement she was dismayed the county was finding itself in a familiar position: Under fire by those with the power to shut the halls down. To say I am disappointed is an understatement, Hahn wrote. We have long known what the BSCCs expectations were, and it is troubling that the department made so little progress and fell so short in meeting them. I pledge to put every available county resource behind bringing these facilities into compliance. The alternative is unacceptable." Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. This image, contained in the report from special counsel Robert Hur, shows boxes in a storage closet at the Penn Biden Center in Washington, in March 2021. President Joe Biden will not be charged over his handling of confidential documents as vice president. | Justice Department via Associated Press President Joe Biden will not face charges over his storage or use of classified documents, but in the Department of Justice report released Thursday, Bidens memory and mental acuity were questioned. The report, produced by special counsel Robert K. Hur, says he believes no criminal charges are warranted in this matter, and he would say the same even if Biden wasnt the sitting president. Hur wrote the evidence does not establish Mr. Bidens guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The report also makes multiple references to Bidens inability to recall key dates and details, at times referring to his memory as hazy, fuzzy and faulty, as pointed out by The Associated Press. At a press conference Thursday evening, Biden reacted to the report, saying, my memory is fine. He also took responsibility for any mishandling of classified documents, saying his staff should not bear any responsibility. I was pleased to see (the special counsel) reached the conclusion that no charges should be brought against me in this case, Biden said. Related Why wasnt Biden charged? Like former President Donald Trump, Biden had classified documents at his home. Included among the classified documents that were kept by Biden in his garage and home office were memos relating to the handling of the war in Afghanistan when he was vice president, according to the report. The report also says Biden shared classified information with the ghostwriter of his memoir published in 2017. While he was president and vice president, he was allowed to have classified documents at home, the report says, but then he willfully kept documents in the years after leaving the vice presidency before he was elected president. But the storage of the documents in the garage of Bidens Delaware home in a badly damaged box surrounded by household detritus suggests the documents might have been forgotten, Hur writes. Hur also says questions about Bidens memory make it less likely that prosecutors would be able to make charges stick against the former president. Questions about Bidens memory Hur writes, Mr. Bidens memory was significantly limited, both during his recorded interviews with the ghostwriter in 2017, and in his interview with our office in 2023. It says his 2017 conversations with an investigator were often painfully slow, with Mr. Biden struggling to remember events and straining at times to read and relay his own notebook entries. In his 2023 interview, Bidens memory was worse, the report says. Biden could not remember the year his son Beau died, or the years his vice presidency started or ended, or some of the key details of the 2009 debate over whether to increase the number of troops in Afghanistan. The report says Bidens attorneys could use these limitations in his recall as part of his defense if he was charged. According to Fox News, Bidens personal lawyers criticized Hur for including Bidens memory lapses in his write-up, and for his characterization of the presidents memory. The lawyers said the reports language has no place in a Department of Justice report. We do not believe that the reports treatment of President Bidens memory is accurate or appropriate, Bidens attorneys said. The report uses highly prejudicial language to describe a commonplace occurrence among witnesses: a lack of recall of years-old events. The attorneys also claimed the timing of the interview played a part in his 2023 interview, Biden spoke to investigators shortly after the Oct. 7 attacks by Hamas on Israel. Donald Trumps reaction Trump had an immediate reaction to the report, saying it was evidence of a two-tiered system of justice, and claiming it was election interference, according to a statement on his Truth Social account. He also called on special counsel Jack Smith to drop the charges against him for his mishandling of classified documents. People stand outside a polling station to cast their vote during the 2024 Pakistani general election. Ppi/PPI via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa No party emerged as a clear winner in Pakistan's hotly-contested but disputed elections, projections suggested on Friday, as results continued to trickle in more than 24 hours after the voting closed. The government and the election panel blamed the unusual delay on internet outages, but doubts about the process were growing and vote-rigging allegations were getting louder. The parties of two former premiers, Nawaz Sharif and Imran Khan, claimed they were ahead, but with just over half the count completed there was still no clear winner. Loyalists of Khan's party held a thin lead for the national legislature, but Sharif's group was quickly gaining ground. Sharifs close aide Ishaq Dar said the party might win more than 100 of the 266 seats being contested directly for the National Assembly - still short of the majority to form the government. But with Sharif's allies winning some seats, and his own party set to get a major share out of the 70 additional seats reserved for women and non-Muslims, Dar claimed they would comfortably form a government. The party of former president Asif Ali Zardari appeared set to be in a position of being kingmaker, after its candidates retained the stronghold province of Sindh. Candidates backed by Khan contested the election as independents. That means that nothing legally prevents them from defecting to other parties. Dar said in an interview with the Geo television channel that some of the independent candidates were already in touch with Sharifs party. Khans allies had been ahead by a significant margin in early results overnight. Then the results stopped coming in, with the delay blamed on telecommunication outages. After a gap of several hours, Sharifs party and allies then had a narrow edge over the candidates backed by Khan when results began to be announced again on Friday morning. By the early evening the outcome remained on a knife edge. Khans close aide Raoof Hasan told dpa the party would announce its plans at a press conference later in the day. He said the peoples mandate "was stolen." He blamed authorities for changing the results overnight on the behest of the powerful military. Provisional results suggested Sharif's party was ahead in Punjab and Khan was leading in the north-western province of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. While the southern province of Sindh was retained by Zardari, the volatile region of Balochistan has a split mandate among several groups. Khan, currently in jail after convictions on several charges, is seen as a strong rival of Pakistan's powerful military that has ruled the nuclear-armed Islamic republic for decades. A woman casts her vote inside a polling station during the 2024 Pakistani general election. -/PPI via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa TOKYO, Feb 09 (News On Japan) - The Consumer Affairs Agency has called for preventive measures against four companies selling rice cookers advertised with "carb-cutting" features, citing a lack of rational basis for such claims. Deceptive Carb-Cutting Claims Exposed Among the array of rice cookers on the market, some products have been promoted for their ability to significantly reduce carbohydrate content during cooking. However, on February 8th, the Consumer Affairs Agency issued orders for measures to prevent recurrence to Nitori, Areti, Risou Japan, and AINEX, citing violations of the Act against Unjustifiable Premiums and Misleading Representations. Agency's Findings Reveal Misleading Practices During a press conference, the agency criticized the advertised benefits of these products as lacking a reasonable basis, leading to actions against the companies for misleading superior representations. The four companies had claimed their rice cookers could cut carbs by 33% to 59% compared to regular rice cookers. However, the agency's investigation found that rice cooked with the carb-cutting feature simply had a higher water content, resulting in a lower proportion of carbohydrates - a mere "apparent reduction" in carbs. Public Reaction and Company Responses The findings suggest that the rice produced is akin to hospital food, baby food, or porridge in terms of moisture content, allowing for an apparent reduction in carbs without actually removing them. This revelation has sparked comments from the public, with a person in their 20s expressing disappointment: "With so many people concerned about carbs these days, it feels like a betrayal of expectations." In response to the agency's orders, the four companies, including Nitori and Areti, have stated their intention to take the findings seriously and commit to preventing future occurrences, signaling a move towards more responsible advertising and consumer practices. Source: ANN CANTON, Ohio (WJW) More healings are being reported at a local house connected with a woman who lived there and is being investigated by the Roman Catholic Diocese for sainthood. Theres truly no explanation for his recovery, said Betsy Dvorak. The miraculous events began back in 1939 when a humble woman named Rhoda Wise lived in the three room depression shack located at 2337 25th St. NE in Canton. This embedded content is not available in your region. Rhoda and her husband George had suffered many hardships, including losing a child. They were raising a beloved adopted daughter when Rhoda was diagnosed with cancer and a lethal infection caused by the removal of a 39-pound tumor. It was a time before antibiotics and doctors sent her home to die. So, she prayed because thats all she could do, said Karen Sigler, General Manager at the non-profit Rhoda Wise Home & Grotto. Prayers she says were answered by Jesus and St. Therese, known as the Little Flower of Jesus for promising to send a shower of roses from heaven. Jesus came and sat in the chair by her bed. She asked him Have you come for me? And he said no, your time hasnt come yet, said Sigler, A month later he returned with St. Therese and she was the one who put her hands on Rhodas abdomen and her abdomen was completely healed. A malformed foot was also healed. Rhoda then developed stigmata, what many Christians believe is the spontaneous bleeding on the body corresponding with the crucifixion wounds of Jesus. For more than 2 years, Sigler says she bled profusely from her head, hands and feet, but she never complained about the suffering. She accepted it so that others might be healed. As word spread, large crowds flocked to the home and were photographed there hoping to witness one of the heavenly visits which continued up until her death in 1948. Photographs taken at the time and witnesses reported seeing an unexplained bright light pouring from the home and rose petals left with an image of St. Therese. The petals, bandages from stigmata, and the chair where they said Jesus sat are all on display at the home. Now over 75 years since Rhodas death, the faithful continue to flock there hoping for their own miracles. During one of the visits Jesus blessed the water (in a large jug) and had told Rhoda that those that use this water would be rewarded for their faith, said Sigler. Winning Mega Millions ticket sold in NE Ohio There have been countless cures documented, says Sigler which continue to this day from minor to truly miraculous. Karen cant share all of them because in 2017 the Diocese of Youngstown declared Rhoda a Servant of God which is a step towards canonization and sainthood. As such, the documents have been sent to Rome to be vetted and cant be discussed. However, Dr. Mark Shoag and his wife Betsy Dvorak shared their incredible experience with Fox 8s Suzanne Stratford. Truthfully, just as a doctor I felt theres no way Im getting out of this hospital, said Dr. Shoag, I was having a hard time breathing, I couldnt walk Dr. Shoag was diagnosed with stage 4 sarcoma. Reverse aging? Breakthrough research offers hope Every doctor gave him only 6 months to live. He had 48 tumors, said Betsy whos also a respiratory therapist, Forty tumors in his lung and the remaining tumors were in his liver and once you get tumors in the liver, they only have months to live. The couple sought help at Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York where doctors removed the largest tumor from his liver which was 10cm by 12cm. But he was still in incredible pain and the situation looked dire. I cant tell you how bad I was, said Dr. Shoag. Thats when a friend told his wife about Rhoda Wise. He was so ill. I couldnt physically bring him down here, but I brought a piece of his clothing down here, and I put it in the chair Jesus sat in, said Betsy. And she says something miraculous happened. Mark had not gotten out of bed in four months but suddenly wanted to go to the grocery store and even walked by himself. Then Mark made the trip to Canton himself. Now six years later, Dr. Shoag is defying the odds. Literally it was miraculous, said Betsy, Hes doing great, hes receiving treatment and hes happy. Are ghosts real? A social psychologist examines the evidence I am six years later, said Dr. Shoag, My lungs are stable, the only place I have a tumor left is the liver. And I dont know if Id be here if I didnt go to Rhoda Wise. I mean to me its been a miracle. Andrea Kissel-Conti also told Fox 8 how she had visited the home when she was 5 years old with an incurable kidney disease. I had a vision of St. Therese, and she was saying to me in a little while, tell them youre going to get better in a little while,e tell them youre going to get better, and she was smiling and the whole time there were rose petals just falling, said Andrea, And Ive never had to go to the doctor with any kidney disease at all ever. Another woman, Bobbi McKnight, was suffering from debilitating double vision which vanished. When she went to her doctor she said, He goes HMMMPF! You can see! I said yea I can. He said, What happened? And I told him, and he said, Yea I believe in miracles. Ohio cities with the most ghost sightings The non-profit home is always free to visit and open to everyone regardless of their faith. Karen says not everyone who comes is healed, and some are healed without even asking but all are welcome. Its true we get to see the goodness of God over and over and over again, said Sigler. For more information on the home click here. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. No one has been fired over mold and other disgusting conditions in military barracks, the Pentagons top installations official told lawmakers Wednesday. Now members of Congress are questioning whether that lack of accountability has become a major hurdle to fixing those problems for good. Members of the House Armed Services Committees readiness panel pressed Brendan Owens, the assistant secretary of defense for energy, installations and environment, for more oversight and accountability of barracks at a hearing Feb. 7. No one from [Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin] down to your level, down to the services, down to the base commander nobody has actually been held accountable, correct? No ones actually been relieved or fired? asked Rep. Michael Waltz, R-Fla., chairman of the House Armed Services Committees readiness panel. Not that Im aware of, said Brendan Owens, assistant secretary of defense for energy, installations and environment. He and the services civilian officials responsible for overseeing installations testified before the panel. I would submit to you that may be a critical part of the problem, Waltz said, adding that by holding people accountable, it would send a signal that the situation unacceptable. Rep. John Garamendi, D-Calif., suggested that Congress should require that the base commander be accountable and responsible for the barracks, which is required with family housing. The living conditions in barracks have been a persistent problem for decades. Auditors with the Government Accountability Office reported similar problems with barracks 20 years ago. The lawmakers cited a more recent report from the Government Accountability Office, from September, which documented widespread barracks issues. All ten of the installations they visited reported mold infestations and broken, malfunctioning, or non-existent heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. A variety of other problems at individual bases have been highlighted in recent years, too. I dont think anybody on this committee or any of you are expecting our service members to live in the Taj Mahal, Waltz said. But this is disgusting. This is unsatisfactory. Across the Defense Department, there are more than 850,000 bed spaces in unaccompanied housing, Owens said, in reference to permanent party barracks for service members stationed at a given base, as well as rotational spaces for those who are there temporarily. He acknowledged the problems, and that the Defense Department has a lot of work to do. The DOD has, in too many instances, failed to live up to our role in making sure the housing we provide honors the commitment of the service members and their families, Owens said. He said this year, the military anticipates implementing 28 of the 31 recommendations for improving barracks laid out by the Government Accountability Office in their September report. Earlier in February, the Pentagon stood up a team to address improvements needed in service members living spaces, initially with a priority on unaccompanied housing and family housing or junior enlisted, he said. Theyll focus on making immediate, ongoing and urgent improvements to barracks; determining new configuration and habitability standards of barracks, and developing standardized preventive maintenance plans and schedules. However, the age-old question is funding. Barracks compete for funding with everything else in the Department of Defense. Part of the problem is that the Defense Department doesnt track how much of the sustainment funding that does make it down to an installation is actually used on barracks, the Government Accountability Office found, nor does the military reliably assess the condition of its barracks. Owens told lawmakers that the Pentagon is working with the services on a new system that would help them track the condition of specific facilities such as barracks, look at the long-term prognosis for the facility, and account for the risk theyre taking if money doesnt go to fixing that facility. The services are working on a number of initiatives. For example, the Marine Corps has just ordered a wall-to-wall inspection of every barracks to assess the problems. Should the military privatize the barracks? The idea of privatizing barracks is gaining momentum. I would like to get the Department of Defense, as weve done with [family] housing, to the extent absolutely possible, out of the hotel management business. We have private sector entities that do it incredibly well at scale all over the world. And they would certainly go out of business in a second if any of their facilities looked like this, Waltz said. Could privatizing barracks help fix the lousy conditions? Owens said the Defense Departmentis looking at privatization options as a way to meet some of the challenges facing barracks. The Navy has two locations where unaccompanied housing has been privatized, San Diego, California and Norfolk, Virginia. Navy officials are looking at the feasibility of expanding the initiative to other Navy bases, said Meredith Berger, assistant secretary of the Navy for energy, installations and environment. The Army has five privatization housing projects, mostly for senior enlisted members. Army officials have proposed a privatization project at Fort Irwin, in California that would provide 544 permanent party junior enlisted spaces, said Rachel Jacobson, assistant secretary of the Army for installations, energy and environment. That project will go a long way in helping us understand how and where privatization might be beneficial, she said. Garamendi, the ranking member on the readiness panel, said there are limitations on what each of the service branches can do regarding barracks privatization. We need to tell them to get on with it in the next [National Defense Authorization Act], give them the authority to do so, he said. And along the way, we should require that they pay careful attention to all of the problems that were created in the family housing over the previous 30 years and to avoid those, and hire some really good real estate lawyers because youre going to be up against some really good real estate lawyers who managed to screw the government in the previous 30 years on the family housing. [En Espanol: No, el gobernador de Texas no dijo que Biden tiene que aprender de Putin | Hechos] A Feb. 1 Instagram post (direct link, archive link) shows a photo of Texas Gov. Greg Abbott behind a microphone. The post text, in Spanish, quotes Abbott as saying, "Biden should think about internal problems, instead of playing with Putin. Whats more, he should learn more to defend national interest as Putin does in Russia." The post was liked more than 3,000 times in eight days. More from the Fact-Check Team: How we pick and research claims | Email newsletter | Facebook page Our rating: False Abbott never said this. The governor criticized President Joe Biden's policies in a Fox News interview, but he did not mention Russian President Vladimir Putin. The claim stems from an altered version of the interview recording. Claim stems from altered version of Fox News interview A video circulating on social media shows a Fox News interview with Abbott that includes Russian subtitles. The audio track of the interview has been altered to add a reference to Putin in stilted English. If only president had been dealing with real internal problems and not trying to play with Putin, from whom he needs to learn how to work for national interests, then everything would have been different," the audio says. "He needs to follow immigration laws. But Abbott never said that. Fact check: False claim Putin, Russia pledged arms to Texas in dispute with US government Abbott did not mention Putin during the Fox News interview, according to a transcript of his remarks provided by his spokesperson, Haley Crow. He talked about immigration policies that Biden should continue. The Remain in Mexico policy, the Title 42 policy, the end of catch and release, and building a border wall. If the Biden Administration was enforcing the immigration laws passed by Congress, the mayors of New York, the leaders of New Jersey and Chicago, etc., they would not be having these problems, Abbott said during the interview. There are no credible news reports that Abbott commented on Biden needing to learn or stop playing games with Putin. Since 2022, Abbott has been sending migrants by bus or airplane to various U.S. cities with Democratic mayors, including Washington, New York, Chicago, Denver, Philadelphia and Los Angeles. More than 100,000 migrants have been sent. Leaders of the cities targeted by Abbott have said his tactics are "cruel," and they have also complained about too many migrants arriving in their communities, which are struggling for resources. Abbott claims that Texas is carrying the heaviest burden of the migrant crisis at the border and has said on social media that he will continue sending migrants to other cities. Our transportation mission will continue until Biden secures the border, Abbott said in January on X, formerly Twitter USA TODAY reached out to the user who shared the post for comment but did not immediately receive a response. Reuters and Factchequeado fact-checked similar claims. Our fact-check sources: Thank you for supporting our journalism. You can subscribe to our print edition, ad-free app or e-newspaper here. USA TODAY is a verified signatory of the International Fact-Checking Network, which requires a demonstrated commitment to nonpartisanship, fairness and transparency. Our fact-check work is supported in part by a grant from Meta. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Abbott didn't say Biden should stop playing with Putin | Fact check A delegation of representatives from Estonia, Iceland, Sweden, Denmark, Latvia, and Lithuania visited the U.S. Congress on Feb. 8 to advocate for a continued American commitment to Ukraine. The U.S. has been Ukraine's largest backer and provider of military aid since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, but domestic politics have increasingly made U.S. aid a partisan issue. Republican lawmakers have blocked aid for months now, effectively causing the flow of security assistance to run dry. Many Republican lawmakers who ostensibly support Ukraine say that the U.S. must first secure its own southern border, but Congress has also failed to agree on immigration reforms, despite willingness from Democrats to offer significant concessions. "We came here, obviously, to show unity, to show our commitment and hoping that the Americans would hear us," said Icelandic lawmaker Dilja Mist Einarsdottir. "We are leaving America a little bit sad," she added. There was agreement among the delegation that the war felt distant in the U.S. and that "there wasnt a sense of urgency," according to Latvian lawmaker Rihards Kols. "We are so united as never before in Europe, and then you have this phenomenon of isolationism growing with every week in America. This is so strange," said Zygimantas Pavilionis of Lithuania. Despite the feeling that many Republican lawmakers "sincerely" support Ukraine, representatives from the delegation also acknowledged that there was pressure from the party at large and, in particular, the likely presidential nominee, former President Donald Trump. "Many of them would like to see this bill passed as soon as possible. But they are very much afraid of (the) results of their own elections in November," said Estonian lawmaker Marko Mihkelson. "We are concerned about U.S. support for Ukraine," said Ine Eriksen Soreide of Norway. "And I say that with quite a lot of solemnity because we are at a place right now where Europe, even though we are giving our fair share, and then some to Ukraine, both when it comes to weapons systems and money, we are not able to fill the gap if the US pulls out." Read also: Border concerns take over after Trumps primary victories, Ukraine aid in question Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) A 67-year-old man who was hit by a car Thursday evening on South Newtown Road near Bangor Avenue has died, Norfolk Police confirmed Friday. Norfolk Police got the call around 8:45 p.m. for the crash in the 100 block of South Newtown Road, which is near the Newtown Road light rail station and Princess Anne Road, near the Norfolk-Virginia Beach city line. Police said the man was taken to the hospital with life-threatening injuries. The man, identified as 67-year-old John Rabon III, of Virginia Beach, died from his injuries at the hospital. The driver involved in the crash remained on scene, according to police. Check with WAVY.com for updates. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Breaking News For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com. The North Kitsap School District School Board has voted to place the superintendent on paid administrative leave after she allegedly stole campaign signs against a school levy. ALLEGED STOLEN CAMPAIGN SIGNS KIRO 7 News requested public records Monday from the Kitsap County Sheriffs Office to learn more about the investigation into North Kitsap School District superintendent Dr. Laurynn Evans. We received documentation and photos of evidence that deputies had collected and captured. According to the documents, Scott Henden and Kim Gerlach told deputies that they had purchased signs to place around the community, however, a lot of them were stolen recently, including on Cliffside Road, near Eglon. Henden told KIRO 7 News that he put grease on several signs to help deter the suspect(s). He also placed game cameras around them to capture the next possible incident. Henden shared a video that captured a person caught in the act on Friday. North Kitsap School District will hold a meeting today after the superintendent allegedly stole campaign signs before the elections on 2/13. A witness shared this video. The future of Dr. Laurynn Evans and why parents are signing a petition in response on @KIRO7Seattle at 6. pic.twitter.com/lrKMnrH1aX Louie Tran (@louie_tran) February 8, 2024 Deputies said they found evidence at Sons of Norway that possibly connects the stolen signs to Evans after discovering the same grease from the stolen signs on her truck. Deputies also found the grease on gloves and a towel inside a dumpster that was next to Evans vehicle, the documents wrote. For the full details on the investigation into the superintendent, please click here. BEFORE SCHOOL BOARD MEETING The North Kitsap School Board scheduled a meeting on Thursday at 5 p.m. following the allegations and listed Superintendent Dr. Laurynn Evans, Paid Administrative Leave as an item on the agenda. KIRO 7 News reached out to the school district and school board before the meeting to get further details. We didnt hear back from the board, however, Jenn Markaryan, communications and community relations for the district, said she did not have further details about the meeting beyond what had been shared on the agenda. KIRO 7 News also spoke with parents Thursday afternoon who said they were going to attend the board meeting following the accusations against the superintendent. I felt it was an injustice to the children. You promote not stealing, be truthful, be honest, really have commitment and loyalty, things like that. Seeing a top leader like that doing those things, how can you tell children to do the right thing and I can do the wrong thing? Adam Toler, who has three children within the district, asked. My oldest (child) straight up said, he said, well if they can do that, well what else are they doing? I just want them (district) to own up. If you did it, you did it. He added, Im looking at your position, and what you hold, and how you treat our children. Danielle Reub Castillejo, who currently has three children within the district, said, Anytime weve gone to the district or superintendent to kind of get answers or the school board, we have not been able to get answers and many times it has been silent. Im going to tonights meeting to encourage the school board to put her (superintendent) on leave or that she would resign. She added, If she got caught doing this, please do the right thing. Let her go. Let her have a new start somewhere else, and let our community move on and heal. I felt deeply worried and deeply troubled about it. This is supposed the head of our schools. She has 5,000 plus kids looking up to her as the role model. She sets the tone. She sets the example. For her to be allegedly involved in this, I think its deeply worrying. Its about not only theft, but its about really freedom of speech and about silencing her critics. And I think thats also troubling about how she may be running the district, said Matt Helmer, who has two children within the district. KIRO 7 News also reached out to people on social media, who shared comments that they supported the school levy, to get their thoughts on the accusations on the districts superintendent. Were still waiting to hear back from them. SCHOOL BOARD MEETING Shortly after the school board meeting began at 5 p.m., a school board member proposed an amendment to the agenda to allow 30 minutes for public comment. A majority of the board voted against the proposal, but allowed additional time for those who had already signed up to speak at the meeting. Several parents, teachers and leaders shared their thoughts at the podium. Cindy Webster-Martinson, joined the meeting via Zoom and said that she heard about a recent vote where people lost confidence in the school board and superintendent, and believed it was impacting the investigation into the superintendent. I hope that the superintendent is given her fair due, she said. KIRO 7 News had reached out to the school district to gather more details about the alleged vote of no confidence. Markaryan responded in an email, We are aware that an email was sent to the board of directors informing them of a vote. We have been informally notified that there was a vote of no confidence from the majority of that association. About 40 minutes into the meeting, a majority of the speakers shared their concerns to the school board, including the districts lack of transparency, budgeting and spending, and the lack of communication on a number of issues impacting students, teachers, staff members and families. You are spending our money, our public money, like youre in Las Vegas, one man said. I know I should be careful with my words, but you are violating your fiduciary duty. Another man shared a statement from North Kitsap Transportation at the podium. A resolution for a vote of no confidence. Let it be known that the collective membership of North Kitsap School District Transportation Department Employees Association have collectively by a majority of voting members passed a resolution voicing our vote of no confidence of the following positions of the North Kitsap School District Administration. The school board, the superintendent, the director of transportation department, the assistant director of the transportation department. We believe that the holders of the listed offices have and continue to violate district policies and procedures, he said. They have operated and made decisions that are not in the best interest of ensuring that the work site is free from threats, harassment, bullying and intimidation and hostile work environment. That some decisions have been made not in the best fiscally responsible manner, the man continued to share at the podium. Nearly an hour into the meeting, the school board voted to place superintendent Evans on paid administrative leave, with a 4-1 vote. KIRO 7 News asked Mike Desmond, school board president, to talk, however, he declined our request. Throughout the meeting, KIRO 7 News did not see the superintendent. The district shared the following statement with KIRO 7 News after the board meeting. At this evenings school board meeting, the North Kitsap board of directors placed Dr. Laurynn Evans on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. The board of directors has appointed Rachel Davenport, Executive Director of Human Resources, as Acting Superintendent for the foreseeable future. Rachel is committed to leading the district through this time by keeping students at the forefront. The board had received many questions and concerns from the community. We understand that it is frustrating for our staff, families, and community that we cannot discuss details of personnel matters. The Board is committed to a full and fair investigation, to making evidence-based decisions, and to keeping the best interests of our students as our guiding focus. We appreciate your patience during this time. KITSAP COUNTY PROSECUTOR KIRO 7 News reached out to Kitsap County prosecutor Chad Enright to get more details about his review on the case after we had reached out to him on Monday. Hes currently reviewing the case involving the superintendent, he said, and a charging decision will be made in the next week or so. DISTRICTS COMMUNICATIONS AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS KIRO 7 News received a photo capturing comments on social media involving campaign signs related to the investigation into the superintendent. In the photo, Andi Humphrey Shepherd wrote in a comment I was in Poulsbo over Christmas and *may or may not* have yanked a Vote No for the Bond sign out of the roundabout outside of Gala Pines and threw off to the side (an emoji of a face with squinting eyes and a smile). A person with the name Jenn Markaryan responded to Shepherds comment with Andi more satisfying than TP-ing a house!! KIRO 7 News reached out to Markaryan to get her response on the photo. She shared the following statement: It is unfortunate that an off-hand comment in a private conversation is being taken out of context to question my integrity. I am a firm believer in the democratic process and the right to advocate for or against ballot measures. I would never condone any interference with a campaign, nor would I ever condone tampering with or removing campaign signs. Parents are seeking out a valuable potion full of antibodies and protein for their young ones. Some are able to make it on their own after giving birth, creating a bond between themself and their child when sharing the potion that helps the child develop a strong immune system and protect them from certain illnesses. For other parents, providing this potion is more complicated, and the pursuit of finding it from other sources can depend on health factors, location or a parents social media presence. On Facebook specifically, parents are connecting through private groups to sell, buy and donate breast milk both nationally and locally. Medical experts describe this as a risky practice, but local mothers who talked to Star-Telegram describe it as an empowering, collaborative transaction thats provided nutrition to their children when other means have been unattainable. The Breastmilk buy/sell/donate DFW Texas and surrounding area Facebook group has more than 5,000 members who advertise their extra breast milk and also bid or barter for the precious liquid by offering cash, breast pumps, storage bags or other supplies. A Star-Telegram reporter requested and was granted permission to join the private group while informing moderators that the goal was to connect with parents using the page. Although some offer their milk for free in the group, others sell it per ounce, ranging from 40 cents to 75 cents, according to recent posts. The amount of milk recently advertised has ranged from 300 to 1,900 ounces. Fort Worth mother Jenna Pickle was among those who shared their milk, posting a photo with frozen white bags marked with dates and portion sizes, in addition to a piece of paper with her name and the date she took the photo. As part of a requirement of making a post in the group, she laid out several bullet points: ZIP code, medications, diet, lab work, details of milk storage, her childs birthday, her vaccination status and more. Pickle did not charge for the 300 ounces she gave to another local mother, she said. Although she understands why others sell, her focus is to help alleviate the stress of caring for a newborn. About 300 ounces of frozen breast milk of Fort Worth mother Jenna Pickle is advertised in the Facebook group Breastmilk buy/sell/donate DFW Texas and surrounding area on Jan. 29, 2024. Courtesy of Jenna Pickle Being a mom to a newborn is hard Id love to give back, Pickle, 32, said. Id rather donate because I can. As a mother of two, shes donated informally online and formally to the Mothers Milk Bank of North Texas after both births, she said. After having her first child, Pickle provided her extra supply to an adoptive mother who she found on Facebook for about six months. Seeing the mothers Facebook page with pictures of the child and the activities they would do together made Pickle feel comfortable about connecting with someone who was a stranger at the time, she said. Most of the times Ive donated to local moms, theyve offered to come pick it up at my house. Then Ill have my husband with me or my mom, just in case. You never know, Pickle said. After that first meeting when (the adoptive mother and baby) came to my house, then I was comfortable with meeting up other places or meeting up at their house to give it to them. Although Pickle has passed a medical screening and blood test to donate to the milk bank, which she can use to show other mothers that shes in good health, she acknowledges that she would be hesitant to buy another persons breast milk online if the roles were reversed. You really dont know whats happening in those peoples lives (and) how theyre handling the milk, she said. I am a pretty trusting person, but I dont know with Facebook Marketplace or Facebook in general, I do tend to be a little bit more skeptical. Shaye Reeves, a mother who received Pickles milk to give to her 2-month-old daughter, recently discovered the world of online milk sharing through her neighbors, she said. Her daughter was born with tongue-tie, a condition that restricts the tongues range of motion and can affect the way a baby eats and swallows, which made it difficult for Reeves to breastfeed. Although she pumps, she is only able to produce about 10 milliliters per pumping session while her daughter eats about 3 ounces for each feed, she said. I literally only make a small appetizer for her, Reeves, 34, of Haslet, said. Ive legitimately tried probably about 15 different formulas, and she just wont take them. So I have to really rely on donor breast milk for my daughter to eat and thrive. Reeves only obtains donor milk from people who also donate to the local milk bank and can show their lab work, such as Pickle. Shes connected with eight donors total, she said, and most have either donated or traded it for supplies such as breast pumps or storage bags. One donor charged Reeves about $80 for 200 ounces, or 40 cents per ounce. Reeves wishes that more people understood the difficulties behind breastfeeding and how it can be a time-consuming task that requires support from family or loved ones to stick with on a consistent basis, especially when an older child needs to be supervised during a pumping or feeding session. Breastfeeding is a lot of work, and the women that can do it and overproduce and be able to donate are incredible human beings, Reeves said. I think its a beautiful thing. Risks of informal sharing and reach of milk banks Medical experts and organizations such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration advise against feeding infants breast milk thats been acquired online or directly from another person. Risks of this practice include exposure to infectious diseases, illegal drugs and certain prescription medications. Additionally, human milk thats been stored improperly can cause it to become contaminated. Ideally, parents who overproduce are encouraged to donate their milk to a local milk bank if one is accessible to them. The Mothers Milk Bank of North Texas, based in Benbrook, is one of 33 banks in North America. Donors must be tested for HIV-1 and HIV-2, hepatitis B and C, syphilis and more to be eligible to donate their milk, according to Amy Trotter, community relations director. They receive no compensation for the milk they provide, and they can drop off their milk at one of 50 collection sites across North Texas or schedule it to be picked up at home. A lab technician prepares bags of frozen breast milk from donors to thaw before theyre processed. Mothers' Milk Bank of North Texas In 2023, the North Texas bank dispensed almost 830,000 ounces from about 1,200 donors, prioritizing vulnerable infants, she said. Since 2020, its monthly dispensation numbers for January have steadily increased by about 10,000 ounces each year. The bank dispenses 70% of its pasteurized, tested milk to babies in local neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), and the remaining 30% to outpatient babies, some who are medically in need with a doctors prescription and some who are healthy but have access to it only during their first two weeks of life, Trotter said. This leaves parents who simply are unable to produce enough independently, who have medical complications that impact their milk production, or who have infants that refuse formula, in a limbo. We do kind of have parameters on who receives the milk because we are first serving a very fragile population, and that is our mission as a nonprofit, Trotter said. What our donor moms always like to hear is that one ounce of their milk can provide three feedings for a micro-preemie baby. If theyre donating a minimum of 100 ounces, that could potentially be 300 feedings. Micro-preemie babies are born before week 26 of pregnancy or weigh less than 28 ounces, according to Cook Childrens Health Care System. Dr. Lisa Stellwagen, a clinical professor of pediatrics at the University of California San Diego and president-elect of the Human Milk Banking Association of North America, noted that the medical necessity for donor milk focuses on the prevention of necrotizing enterocolitis, a serious gastrointestinal illness that typically affects premature babies and has a mortality rate as high as 50%. Thats the reason milk banks exist, she said. Stellwagen said that the availability to provide milk to a child who is sick at home rather than the hospital varies by region. But overall, accessibility to the remaining parents searching for tested, pasteurized breast milk along with mitigating the practice of online exchanges will require more donors to step up, milk bank infrastructure to be improved, and education of the issue to be more widely shared. Theres just a huge distribution problem, she said. Theres enough milk, we just havent gotten the word out. Not everybody is aware of milk donation. A lot of people have never heard of the milk bank One of the concerns we have in the (Human Milk Banking Association of North America) realm is just increasing the capacity so that we can provide donor milk to families at home because theres a lot of interest in that and avoiding formula. Obstacles with breastfeeding; Breast milk demand A notable hurdle mothers can face with breastfeeding is maternal age, Stellwagen said. The human body is designed to have children between the ages of 14 and 25, she said, but people are waiting longer to give birth in modern times. From 1990 to 2019, the fertility rates of women ages 20-24 decreased by 43%, and those of women ages 35-39 increased by 67%, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Additionally, the rate of women ages 40 and older giving birth for the first time has doubled over the past 30 years, according to the University of South Carolina Arnold School of Public Health. In addition to maternal age, other health issues such as obesity, diabetes and hypertension can contribute to issues with milk supply, Stellwagen added. It really depends on who you are, she said. Evolution put a ton of energy into developing breast milk because it was the only way our species has survived all these years. I like putting a positive spin on it: Most people do fine with support and good maternal health and should make a full, robust milk supply for their child. In general, prioritizing breast milk over formula is valid, as the health benefits it provides outpaces the risks associated with formula, Stellwagen said. Children do fine on formula, but there are risks associated with it. Risks of being overweight. An increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome. A doubling in the risk of many common childhood infections like ear infections, diarrheal illness and respiratory illness, she said. Kandace Espinosa, an administrator for the Dallas-Fort Worth Facebook group, said the group was created after the formula shortage crisis hit in late 2021 and was exacerbated in February 2022 by Abbott Nutritions recall, which halted production after inspectors found potentially dangerous bacteria. This caused the demand for breast milk to surge. Espinosa and other administrators vet profiles to the best of their ability and require members to answer survey questions and follow a specific format when advertising their milk through posts. We no longer accept profiles that are less than one year old. We vet the rest of their profiles, groups theyre part of and ensure they answer all the group questions to our satisfaction before even allowing them in the group, she said. We are transparent and do our best to eliminate possible scammers and dishonest people. Espinosa always encourages parents to ask for lab work or be willing to pay for those tests, while referring to the North Texas milk bank as a primary resource, she said. Among notable examples of exchanges shes witnessed in the group include a surrogate donating to another mother with cancer who was unable to nurse, as the parents of the surrogates baby did not want the breast milk. Risks are there, but theres also a big benefit. For many, it is worth taking, she said. Stellwagen recommends parents to first seek help from their childs medical provider or a lactation specialist in their community when they encounter obstacles with breastfeeding. The North Texas milk bank offers a free breastfeeding support program hosted by certified lactation consultants every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to noon at its Benbrook location and offers online sessions every second and fourth Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. Geneva, Switzerland (PANA) - The unrelenting war in Gaza hasnt spared hospitals, their staff or the people sheltering there, the UN World Health Organisation (WHO) said on Friday as it unveiled data indicating more than 350 attacks on healthcare in the enclave since hostilities erupted NEW YORK The City Council empowered Speaker Adrienne Adams on Thursday to take legal action against Mayor Eric Adams over his refusal to implement a set of new housing voucher laws but the speaker played coy on what exactly comes next. Thursdays procedural step came in the form of a resolution authorizing the speaker to pursue legal action on behalf of the full Council to compel the mayor to implement the laws, which are designed to expand access to CityFHEPS, a voucher program subsidizing rent for low-income New Yorkers. The measure breezed through the Council in a voice vote with overwhelming support. With the resolution adopted, the speaker wouldnt say what form any legal action against the mayor will take, though, or when it might be initiated. There has been no final decision yet on any legal action, she told reporters. But this maintains our ability to keep our options open, thats what the resolution does. Among other provisions, the laws in dispute would expand access to CityFHEPS by eliminating a rule requiring that otherwise income-eligible individuals must enter a homeless shelter before they can apply for a voucher. By scrapping that rule, Council Democrats have argued the city can prevent more New Yorkers from becoming homeless. The Council enacted the laws last summer by overriding the mayors vetoes of them. Nonetheless, the mayor didnt implement the laws by a legally mandated Jan. 9 deadline, arguing the city cant shoulder the added cost that would come with them. After Thursdays resolution vote, Adams spokeswoman Kayla Mamelak reiterated that argument, saying this legislation will add $17 billion onto the backs of our taxpayers a figure Council Democrats argue is exaggerated. The speakers reluctance to talk about what exactly her next step will be on the legal front comes as others are also mulling court action over the CityFHEPS matter. The Legal Aid Society, which by law represents the citys homeless population, said last month it would file a lawsuit against the mayor to force him to implement the CityFHEPS laws. At the time, a Council spokesman said the speaker was eyeing legal action, too, and that it wasnt clear whether she would bring her own lawsuit or join Legal Aids filing. A spokesman for the Legal Aid Society declined to comment after Thursdays vote. Paul DiGiacomo, president of the NYPD's Detectives' Endowment Association, flanked by members of his group and Karen and James Whalen, the sister and brother-in-law of Megan McDonald, calls for the FBI and or Attorney General to investigate the actions of Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler. The DA, when he was in private practice, represented Andre Thurston, a man who was seeking a plea deal in the McDonald murder. Hoovler, after taking office in January 2014, failed to recuse himself from overseeing the investigation. Within days of a USA Today Network New York series that revealed a blistering State Police report taking Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler to task for his alleged actions in the Megan McDonald murder investigation, the NYPD's Detectives' Endowment Association called for the FBI and New York's Attorney General to investigate Hoovler. Paul DiGiacomo, president of the Detectives' Endowment Association, was flanked by members of his group and by Karen and James Whalen, the sister and brother-in-law of Megan McDonald, at the hastily called news conference. "I've been a detective for over 40 years, and there's something that we go by, and that's gut instinct a lot," DiGiacomo said. "And this case smells. There were things done that were unethical, things done that were wrong, things done that should be investigated by the FBI and the attorney general to bring to light the corruption in that office in regards to this homicide case." Megan McDonald's father, Dennis, was an NYPD detective who served 20 years before retiring in 2000. He died of a heart attack in 2002, a year before his daughter's murder. His fellow detectives have stood by the family, offering a reward for information leading to a conviction. McDonald's body was found in an Orange County field in March 2003. For 20 years, State Police investigators sought her killer. In April 2023, a month after the 20th anniversary of the murder, they arrested Edward Holley, Megan's former boyfriend, and charged him with second-degree murder. Within days of the arrest, Hoovler recused himself and his office from the case, and punted the preliminary hearing, permitting Holley to go free. Veteran Westchester prosecutor Julia Cornachio was named special prosecutor. "One of the reasons it took 20 years to bring this case to the point it is now, was that the current district attorney, David Hoovler, was once the defense attorney who represented one of the perpetrators in this homicide," DiGiacomo said. "The DEA is now calling on the FBI and the attorney general to open an investigation into the district attorney, David Hoovler, to find out why he stood in the way of arresting Holley to begin with, and he stood in the way of bringing justice for that beautiful girl, Megan McDonald," he added. Hoovler, as a defense attorney, in 2008 sought a manslaughter plea deal for his client, whom he later identified as Andre Thurston. Thurston died in 2010 from a drug overdose, days after the seventh anniversary of Megan McDonald's murder. Hoovler denies the conclusion drawn in the internal State Police report, that he tampered with the investigation because of his role representing Thurston. "Any suggestion that I, or anyone in my office, did anything to 'tamper with,' or in some fashion compromise the investigation into Ms. McDonald's death is as categorically false as it is offensive," he said. Last week, Cornachio was able to secure an indictment of Holley, who was arraigned on Feb. 2 and is now being held in Orange County jail on a second-degree murder charge. He has declared his innocence. Karen Whalen, the family's spokesperson, along with her husband, said: "We are just so emotional about standing here with Paul DiGiacomo and the DEA and how they have been by our side with everything that we've needed with my dad not being here. They have just been our rock to stand with. "We are here as Megan's family now, joining the DEA and Paul to call for an investigation into David Hoovler and his actions. Only after an arrest was made and after we retained an attorney, John Beatty, did David Hoover call a meeting where he announced his recusal." That meeting took place on April 25, 2023, five days after the arrest and a day before Holley went free. The meeting was so full of Hoovler assistants that there wasn't enough room in his office to hold the meeting. Instead, Hoovler told the McDonalds he wouldn't be taking the case to the grand jury in the grand jury room. "At this meeting, he brought in seven of his staff members," Karen Whalen said. "We found him to be untruthful and evasive in his responses to us. In this meeting, his story continued to change. We asked him repeatedly for clarification. We asked him repeatedly for answers. And we still can't understand how David Hoover could act as a defense attorney for someone involved in my sister's case and turn around and be the district attorney." Beatty then took to the podium, saying Hoovler has not been truthful or forthcoming to date. "If the governor's office or the attorney general or the FBI would come to our aid in trying to get answers in this case, both for this family who's been so injured, but also for the taxpayers of Orange County," Beatty said. Hoovler recused himself in other cases, Beatty said. "The question is why didn't he recuse himself in this case?" James Whalen spoke of the meeting in the jury room on April 25, 2023, when Hoovler, joined by a gaggle of his senior staff and investigators, broke the news that he would finally recuse himself. "We join in the DEA's call for investigation of District Attorney David Hoover and our opinion is based solely on the contents of our meeting with D.A. Hoover and the individuals that he brought to that meeting, " James Whalen said. It was at that meeting, Whalen said, "where he surprised us with the announcement that he was going to recuse himself and constantly shifted his story." Karen Whalen said she's looking forward to putting the case behind her. "The whole point of this for us, for our family, our entire goal is to get my sister back," she said. "It's to stop talking about how she died and not remember her that way, but to remember all the love and her smile and laugh and everything that she brought good to our family and talk about that again. At the end of this, that is our goal is to never talk about this again and just move forward with our happy, warm memories of her." This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Megan McDonald murder: Family and NYPD detectives want FBI probe of DA An opinion piece recently came out in the New York Times looking at the ongoing debate on transgender youth. If youve read the piece, you might be forgiven for thinking that huge swaths of children are receiving surgery for gender dysphoria, and that many or even most of them regret their transitions. I realized that I had lived a lie for over five years, one destransitioning teen told the Times. Members of the trans community who track legislation and critique media coverage called the piece misleading, and even suggested it followed the climate denier playbook. Now, I have no particular stake here. Im not trans, I dont work in that area of health care, and Im a cis man. I am, however, an epidemiologist, and I spend a lot of my time checking scientific facts that are online with the goal of helping people better understand health, science, and how the media covers those things. In this case, one key question arose from the New York Times piece that author Pamela Paul did not really answer: What proportion of people who access medical care to transition genders regret doing so? You might answer, Why does anyone care?, which is, to be honest, not unreasonable. Some proportion of people experience regret for any medical procedure, from chemotherapy to orthopedic surgery. Nonetheless, we dont see op-eds about the awful risks of hip replacements. Its inevitable that some percentage of teens who transition will regret it; the real question is whether the medical care is beneficial on the wholenot whether the occasional person later regrets a medical choice they made in their youth. Its also important to note that we dont really care about the crude number of people who regret transition, we care about the rate. If more people choose to transition, then more people, in total, will regret it. If the number of people transitioning goes from (to use arbitrary numbers) 1,000 to 100,000, but the number of people regretting it goes from 50 to 100, then the rate has dropped massively and its a very good thing, even though the crude number has doubled. A good place to start when looking at the rate of regret for people transitioning in modern medical settings is to think about the upper and lower bounds. The highest estimate that Ive come across is this recent study of people using the U.S. military health care system. It doesnt deal with regret head-on, though. The authors looked at transgender or gender-diverse people who were using their parents or spouses military health care to access hormones for gender-related care, and looked at how many of them stopped getting these drugs over a four-year period. At the end of the study, about 30 percent of the people who started accessing hormones through this system stopped, with a lower rate for kids and higher rate for adults. (They may have gone elsewhere for hormones, though.) The lowest estimate Ive seen for regret after gender-related care is based primarily on people who have had gender-affirming surgery. A recent systematic review and meta-analysisa type of study where the authors aggregate lots of papers into one big estimatethat combined such studies found an overall rate of 1 percent for regret after surgery for both transmasculine and transfeminine surgeries. This echoes other large cohorts which have found that only a tiny proportion of the people who have these surgeries eventually report regretting the procedure. The issue here is that neither of these extremes are reliable estimates of regret. The 30 percent figure obviously does not map onto regret. Many people stop using their parent or partners health care for reasons completely unrelated to transition regret (i.e., divorce). And the studies of surgery in the review are mostly surgeons following up with their own patients, with quite high dropout rates. Its not surprising that only 1 percent of people report to a surgeon who did an operation that they regret it! Theres also a problem here about how we define regret. One of the biggest studies on transition-related regret was on the Amsterdam gender clinic, including nearly 7,000 people over 43 years. These authors defined regret as a patient who came back to the clinic after surgery to access hormones that would reverse their gender transition (and who had this noted in their records). By this definition, less than 1 percent of people regretted their surgery. But this is obviously not a particularly useful definition, because it will miss all of the people who regretted their procedures but went elsewhere for their follow-up care, or simply never got back to the original clinic about their regret. Perhaps the most useful way to examine regret is to look at the proportion of people who cease their transition and go back to the gender they were originally. A large national study found that 13.1 percent of transgender people participating in the U.S. Transgender Survey reported detransitioning at some point in their lives. I think thats a fairly reasonable estimate of the rate of people experiencing some measure of regret around their transition experience. The authors of this study are careful to argue that the 13.1 percent figure isnt a measure of regret, saying that these experiences did not necessarily reflect regret regarding past gender affirmation. Most of them reported that external factors were behind their detransitiona common reason was pressure from a parentand all of them still identified as trans when they took part in the survey. However, I think that the figure in that study is useful for precisely the reasons discussed in the study itself: Neither detransition nor regret are simple concepts. Transition, as with all social phenomena, is complex. You can stop taking hormones and still be trans. You can regret taking steps that alienate you from your family, even as you wish your family would accept you living how you want to live. You can even regret some aspects of a treatment (any kind of medical treatment!) while being grateful for the knowledge you gained by trying it out. Regret doesnt always mean that people wish they hadnt transitioned, it just means that there are some parts of the story that they long to change. Paul published a short follow-up in the Times pushing back on criticisms of her column, arguing that we simply dont know how many trans teens will seek medical care and then go on to detransition. Its true that we dont have good U.S. data on the number of people who detransition, but other countries have fairly useful, recent papers showing that detransition is quite uncommon. Paul even cited one of these in her piece, although she dismissed it out of hand. Its possible that we dont have all the information yet, but we can consider the constellation of evidence that we do have. Whats clear from this evidence is that the vast majority of people do not experience regret, howsoever defined, after transitioning genders. Regret rates are actually much higher for a lot of medical procedures. For example, in the U.S. military study above, 26 percent of children stopped getting hormones through their parents insurance after four years; a national British study looking at antidepressant use in children across the country found that half of the kids had stopped taking these medications after just two months. Ultimately, the question of what proportion of kids or adults regret their transition is only important to a select group: the people who want to transition, and their clinicians. At worst, the rate of regret is still better than other treatments which dont require national debates over their use, which really begs the question of why anyone who isnt directly involved with the treatment of transgender people is even weighing in on the topic at all. Indeed, a lot of what Ive said in this piece has been raised by everyone from journalists to activists to trans folks just trying to live their lives. But as long as columnists are asking questions, maybe I can help by offering answers. West of the Himmarshee bars in a quaint Old Florida building, the Old Fort Lauderdale Breakfast House stood as a bastion for hungry downtown eaters with oven-baked pancakes the size of hubcaps, cage-free eggs and housemade biscuits. Now the O-B House, as locals affectionately called it, has left its longtime home after 12 years, abruptly closing without warning after lunch service on Feb. 3. Co-owner Rodney Ely tells the South Florida Sun Sentinel that plans are underway to relocate to a new storefront in Fort Lauderdale, although a contract hasnt yet been signed. Ely says the eaterys cramped space just 20 seats played a big role in his decision not to renew the five-year lease on Himmarshee Street, which he says came up for renewal in February. Theres a certain nostalgia to the intimacy, but as a business model, its not the best dynamic, explains Ely, who operates the restaurant with co-owner Aaron Johnson. I dont want to call it a forced closure. It had limitations. My instincts told me its just not the right location anymore. On Thursday, a For Lease sign wallpapered the front of O-B Houses tangerine-colored building, while a forklift stood nearby on the sidewalk. OB is leaving this location and while its been a ride, were sad to leave, Ely and Johnson posted on social media earlier this week. Thank you for joining us, whether it was one time or whether you were a regular, we thank you. When it debuted in August 2011, the O-B House stood among the rare downtown restaurants open before 10 a.m., catering to early risers and tourists beside the Himmarshee bars and nightclubs still buzzing from the night before. It offered customers rustic walls adorned with old photo prints of World War II sailors, a gravel patio and generously portioned omelets and buttermilk biscuit sandwiches. No menu items were more generously portioned than its dense, casserole-thick pancakes, served in a cast-iron pan and made with buttermilk, organic flour, sour cream and Vermont maple syrup. A week before O-B House opened, Ely recalls barricading himself in the kitchen, refining the recipe. One of the secrets to that pancake was the amount of egg I used in that batter, he says. I had to invent a pancake where, when people saw it, their heads would explode, not only by how it looked but by how it tasted. As much as it delighted customers, O-B House also polarized some. The breakfast-lunch eatery maintained a strict no-menu-substitutions policy. Online reviews are filled with examples of customers complaining of overlong wait times, rude servers and mandatory service charges. The restaurant also made headlines in 2016 for eighty-sixing its tipping policy by raising menu prices instead. On the South Florida Sun Sentinel-run Facebook page, Lets Eat, South Florida, patrons sounded off about the closing of O-B House. One customer, Vanessa Apotheker, liked the service but compared it to the soup nazi from Seinfeld. The way Rodney would allow zero substitutions anything resembling a complaint, youd get kicked out, she wrote. Best bacon, cheese grits and pancakes in town, another customer, Barbra Anne-Stern, opined. Loved being able to sit outside with the dogs. Ely agrees that O-B Houses policies could be divisive but defends their usefulness in creating a better customer experience, he says. That philosophy is what has made the brand so successful, even though its polarizing, Ely says. People have these preconceived notions for what breakfast should mean to them. Its about experiencing someone elses cooking, their vision, not recreating something that you can cook for yourself at home. BERLIN The European Union is investing 90 million ($97 million) to jumpstart the development of a satellite-based missile early warning system, with a consortium of 43 companies from 14 nations starting work on a simulator. The project, led by Bremen, Germany-based OHB System AG, in 2021 received an initial 7.5 million from the European Commission to study space situational awareness and early warning capabilities. The new project, titled Odins Eye II, expands upon these studies and moves things forward by launching the design phase. Announced late last year, it carries an expected price tag of 96.6 million, according to a fact sheet posted on the EU website. The EU-level funding comes out of the European Defence Fund, with some additional, direct contributions from participating governments. Norway, although not an EU member, is also involved in the project. The satellite system is meant to enhance European countries capabilities in the areas of timely warning, technical intelligence, proliferation control and missile defense. It specifically seeks to detect and track ballistic, hypersonic and anti-satellite weapons, according to the grant fact sheet and an OHBs statement. Several of the companys subsidiaries are also part of the consortium. OHB Hellas, a Greek-based outfit, and Digital Connect, based in Mainz, Germany, are responsible for the ground segment, data analysis and on-board processing. The coalition of companies from across the continent also includes several giants of the European defense industry, including Airbus, the Ariane Group, Leonardo and Thales According to OHB, Odins Eye will serve as a pillar of the French-led, European TWISTER project. Twister hopes to track space threats through a combination of enhanced capabilities for space-based early warning and endo-atmospheric interceptors, according to that projects official description. Europes sovereignty and defense capability will also be decided in space, and a dedicated early warning capability is essential in regard of the current geopolitical state of the world, said Sabine von der Recke, the responsible board member at OHB. The company was unable to provide further information on the programs timing and mission specifics by press time. In recent years, the European Union has embarked on a push to enhance its space-based surveillance abilities. Aside from Odins Eye and Twister, in 2021 it funded the Ariane Group-led Sauron project, which also had the aim of enhancing space situational awareness, and the Vitrociset-led Integral, which dealt primarily with the exchange of sensitive operational data. Mykhailo Podoliak, Advisor to the Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, has said that the need to review the military tactics and prevent stagnation on the front was among the reasons Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Valerii Zaluyzhnyi had been dismissed. Source: Mykhailo Podoliak on Telegram Quote: "The decision was made in light of the need to review the tactics that have failed to fully deliver the desired result last year; to prevent stagnation on the front that is negatively affecting the public mood; to find functional and high-tech solutions that will enable us to maintain and develop our initiative; [the decision was also determined by] the importance of launching the reform of the army management principles." Background: On 8 February, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Valerii Zaluzhnyi, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, said they had a meeting and discussed changes in the leadership of the Armed Forces. Later President Zelenskyy appointed Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Support UP or become our patron! A police officer publicly beat two people during separate, unprompted attacks that unfolded in the streets of a New Jersey city within one month, according to federal prosecutors. Both of them posed no danger to Paterson Police Department officer Kevin Patino or anyone else, prosecutors said. More than three years later, Patino, 32, of Wayne, pleaded guilty to civil rights charges on Feb. 8, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of New Jersey announced in a news release. Mr. Patino, a decorated police officer and veteran, deserves to put this matter behind him, his defense attorney, Todd A. Spodek, told McClatchy News in a statement on Feb. 9. It wasnt until Patinos plea hearing on Feb. 8 that federal officials disclosed he was charged in connection with the first assault against a man in Paterson before the second assault on a 19-year-old weeks later, the Paterson Press reported. In April 2021, the attorneys office announced Patino and another Paterson police officer were charged in connection with the second assault. What happened? The first beating occurred after Patino responded to an officers call for backup on Main Street in Paterson on Nov. 26, 2020, according to prosecutors. When Patino arrived at the scene, he watched his fellow officer, who was trying to disperse a crowd, get into a verbal exchange with a man, prosecutors said. Patino told the man to move away from the officer, but the man didnt listen, according to prosecutors. Then, Patino pushed the man, who walked away from him, prosecutors said. Patino also began to walk away but then returned to confront the victim and pushed the victim into the street, according to prosecutors. Then, he threw the man down and repeatedly struck him as he was on the ground, prosecutors said. While Patino was hitting the man, another officer handcuffed him, according to prosecutors, who wrote in court documents that he used unreasonable and excessive force. Hes also accused of filing false police reports to hide what happened, prosecutors said. The second attack During the second assault on Dec. 14, 2020, Patino and another officer were in an unmarked police car when they responded to a report of a suspicious person in Paterson, according to the attorneys office. Patino and other police officers ultimately found the suspected suspicious person, and as some officers spoke with this individual, a man was walking to work nearby, court documents say. This man stopped to watch the officers interaction with the other individual before he continued to walk down the street, according to prosecutors. After the officers ended their encounter with the individual, Patino and another officer drove away in their unmarked police vehicle, prosecutors said. The officer driving the vehicle made a sharp turn to follow the man who was headed to work and parked, according to prosecutors. Patino and the other Paterson police officer, Kendry Tineo-Restituyo, stepped out of the vehicle and approached the man before an attack ensued, the attorneys office said in an earlier news release. Patino grabbed the man and repeatedly hit him in the face and his body after he tried to separate himself from Patino, prosecutors said. As Patino was beating him, Tineo-Restituyo picked the victim up and threw him to the ground, according to prosecutors, who said the pair then repeatedly struck him. McClatchy News contacted Tineo-Restituyos defense attorneys for comment on Feb. 9 and didnt receive an immediate response. In February 2021, the New Jersey Council on American-Islamic Relations published a video of the assault and demanded the two officers be fired for the attack on the 19-year-old, who CAIR said is a Muslim Arab-American. The disturbing video shows two officers approach and beat the youth to the ground He was later diagnosed with head trauma and a concussion, CAIR-NJ Executive Director Selaedin Maksut said in a news release issued at the time. After the beating, Patino and Tineo-Restituyo lied in a police report, accusing the 19-year-old of screaming profanities, acting belligerent, and punching Patino, the attorneys office said. Now, Patino has pleaded guilty to a superseding information that charges him with two counts of violating an individuals civil rights, prosecutors said. Spodek told McClatchy News he wholeheartedly applauds the US Attorneys Offices decision to offer a misdemeanor resolution to the case on the eve of trial and dismiss the indictment. The indictment previously charged Patino with one count of conspiracy against rights by depriving a man of his constitutional right to be free from the use of unreasonable force by law enforcement officers, one count of deprivation of rights under color of law and two counts of falsification of records, according to the attorneys office. Patino and Tineo-Restituyo are on paid administrative leave, according to the Paterson Press. A conference will be held in court on Feb. 15 about whether Tineo-Restituyo wants to waive a jury trial, records show. Cops violently handcuff, arrest 2 women for taking care of stray cats, lawsuit says Deputies viciously beat hospitalized mom of 2 as she waits for CT scan, lawsuit says Ex-Florida trooper robbed stores, googled do drug stores get robbed in florida, feds say Cops left cancer patient in severe pain day after surgery, suit says. City must pay Criminal charges against an Ohio pastor who let unhoused people stay overnight in his church have been dropped, a court document filed Thursday shows. Chris Avell, pastor at Dad's Place church in Bryan, about 53 miles southwest of Toledo, was facing 18 criminal charges, for alleged zoning violations including lacking a proper kitchen and laundry facilities, having unsafe exits and using improper ventilation. In a countersuit filed Jan. 22, First Liberty Institute and the law firms Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP and Spengler Nathanson PLL filed a motion for a temporary restraining order against the city and city officials. Dad's Place, an Evangelical church in Bryan, Ohio, opens its doors to many unhoused people. The church is now suing the city and its officials after alleged accusations of harassment and intimation. Bryan, Ohio pastor sues city: After being charged over opening church to house the homeless "The city of Bryan appreciates the willingness of Dads Place to work with the city to resolve the parties' differences amicably and to ensure that the services provided by Dads Place are delivered in a safe manner," Bryan Mayor Carrie Schlade said in the news release. "The parties continue to work together in a concerted effort to bring the case to a final resolution." On Feb. 1, the attorneys representing Dads Place and Bryan city officials met in U.S. District Court in an effort to settle the pending lawsuit. Dad's Place said it had agreed to cease residential operations and seek proper building certifications and zoning permits. It said it also would install any safety measures associated with the permits. First Liberty Institute Senior Counsel, Jeremy Dys, (right) and Pastor Chris Avell (left) speak to a local reporter outside the courthouse. We are grateful that the city of Bryan has dropped the criminal charges against Pastor Avell, said Jeremy Dys, senior counsel at First Liberty, a nonprofit legal organization that defends religious liberties. Ministries like Dads Place provide vital public services to their communities. We will continue our conversations with city officials in hopes that we can find a final resolution where Dads Place can continue to serve those in need in its community. Avell expressed gratitude and hope for the future. I am thankful to God, the city, and for everyone who has been praying for this day to come, Avell said. Bryan is my home. I am eager to continue to serve God, my community, and the people I love. Dad's Place's plan to help the unhoused community The church, which opened in 2018, began operating 24 hours a day in March 2023. The Evangelical church offers free haircuts for people within the community, Bible study nights, a warming center for those without a home, prayer nights, parties and various service nights, according to the church's Facebook page. Avell's said the mission of the round-the-clock ministry was to add a a beacon of light to the downtown area. I truly believe that everyone who walks through the door of Dads Place walks out a better citizen, Pastor Chris Avell said in an interview Jan. 23 with The Associated Press. Homeless advocates sue city officials nationwide over zoning battles City officials in recent years have cited zoning and permit violations at churches and other nonprofits across the country that feed or provide temporary shelter to people in poverty. Last month in Houston, the city was unable to put together an unbiased jury in the case of a woman who is part of the group Food Not Bombs, the Houston Chronicle reported. The woman received a $500 ticket for giving out meals, allegedly violating Houston's ordinances. But the jury in her case was dismissed after they said they would not issue the fine from the city. The trial can be rescheduled with a new jury. Roughly 90 tickets have been issued to food volunteers in Houston, and the city hasn't won a single case, according to the Houston Chronicle. In a trial involving the same Houston volunteer group, a jury found a man not guilty of breaking local laws when he fed unhoused people outside. Phillip Picone went to trial for criminal citations he received in March 2023 after not moving his meal service to another location. After his trial, Pincone sued the city, arguing laws banning sharing food with people outdoors violate his freedom of expression and freedom of religion. The lawsuit asked for a temporary injunction against the city, which has yet to come. In the meantime, Pincone continues serving meals several days a week outside, his lawyer Randall Kallinen told USA TODAY. In Brookings, Oregon, St. Timothy Church sued the city in January 2022 after officials enacted an ordinance making the church restrict its meal service to two days a week, down from about six a move church leaders said prohibited the congregation from exercising its religious duty to serve the poor. "That's a ministry of our church. We're allowed to be a church, and you can't tell us that we can't practice our faith by feeding people," Father Bernie Lindley told USA TODAY. A federal judge is set to hear the case on Feb. 15, he said. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Ohio city drops charges against pastor housing homeless in church The headquarters of Sikorsky in Stratford, Conn. Christian Abraham / Hearst Connecticut Media Sikorsky was dealt a blow Thursday as the U.S. Army announced it was scrapping plans for an armed scout helicopter that the Stratford-based manufacturer and its parent company Lockheed Martin hoped to produce. The decision comes a year after Sikorsky lost out on the chance to build a new utility helicopter for the military branch. Sikorsky's president previously stated the chance to build the utility helicopter - a replacement for the Black Hawk - and the scout helicopter that could be used for surveillance and reconnaissance as "existential" for the company's future viability. Building a new fleet of scout helicopters could have brought billions of dollars in Connecticut's direction. In a statement Thursday evening, Sikorsky and Lockheed Martin maintained the company's "X2" helicopter design offers unparalleled speed, range and agility, and that it is "confident" in the design for both U.S. and international needs. Advertisement Article continues below this ad To provide the U.S. military and its allies a decisive advantage to deter conflict now and in the future, there must be a transformational improvement in rotorcraft systems capabilities and a strong engineering workforce that can strengthen the nations leading edge in rotorcraft innovation," the Sikorsky statement read. "We are disappointed in this decision and will await a U.S. Army debrief to better understand its choice. In a joint statement, Connecticut's Congressional delegation said they want a detailed explanation from the Army on future aircraft capabilities and how "the exceptional and seasoned workforce at Sikorsky for generations to come" would be utilized. We are extremely disappointed that the Army has decided to walk away from the (Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft) program," the statement read. "We have been told on multiple occasions by the Army that FARA was their number one priority. This is a complete reversal of that position." In a Thursday announcement, the Army called the decision a "rebalance" that was based on "lessons learned and a sober assessment of the modern battlefield" in its words. While the Army will not proceed with a new scout helicopter and will end production of the UH-60V version of the Black Hawk, but will commit to a new contract to purchase additional UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters and promised "new investments" its UH-60L Black Hawk fleet without providing immediate specifics. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Army indicated it will increase its use of drones and space-based surveillance systems as an alternative to the armed scout helicopter. Sikorsky had offered the Raider X prototype, with Bell in the competition as well with its 360 Invictus helicopter design. We are learning from the battlefield especially in Ukraine that aerial reconnaissance has fundamentally changed, said Gen. Randy George, chief of staff of the Army. Sensors and weapons mounted on a variety of unmanned systems and in space are more ubiquitous, further reaching, and more inexpensive than ever before. I am confident the Army can deliver for the Joint Force, both in the priority theater and around the globe, by accelerating innovation, procurement and fielding of modern unmanned aircraft systems, including the Future Tactical Unmanned Aircraft System, Launched Effects, and commercial small unmanned aircraft systems. Christine Wormuth, secretary of the Army, stated the Army remains deeply committed to our aviation portfolio and to our partners in the aviation industrial base." While Sikorsky anticipates decades more work building Black Hawk helicopters and variants for the U.S. military and foreign countries, in 2022 the Army chose a Bell tilt-rotor called the V-280 Valor as its future workhorse for the eventual day when the Black Hawk is sidelined or phased out entirely. Analysts have cited the V-280's longer range as a key driver for the Army decision, in anticipation of any future conflicts in eastern Europe or the Pacific Rim where aircraft would have to traverse greater distances between bases. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In this screenshot from a security camera recording, Lincoln County District Judge Traci Soderstrom looks at her cellphone during a murder trial in June. Faces of the jurors have been blurred to protect their identities. The judge who repeatedly texted and got on Facebook during a murder trial last year is resigning. Lincoln County District Judge Traci Soderstrom agreed Thursday to step down and never seek any judicial position again in Oklahoma. Her resignation will go into effect at 5 p.m. Friday. Her decision came days before she was to go on trial before a special court. The Oklahoma Court on the Judiciary was to begin hearing testimony Monday afternoon. The trial was expected to last as long as three weeks. The Oklahoma Supreme Court's chief justice wanted her removed. She had been seeking to remain on the bench and complete a corrective action plan. She took office on Jan. 9, 2023, after winning election. She voluntarily suspended herself in October. She was accused of exchanging more than 500 texts with her bailiff during the murder trial last June. In the texts, she joked with her female bailiff about the size of prosecutors' penises, called the key witness a liar and admired the looks of a testifying police officer, Chief Justice John Kane alleged. More: Oklahoma Judge Traci Soderstrom caught sending mocking texts through murder trial faces removal She admitted in January in a legal filing that her texting during a trial was inappropriate. She also acknowledged there was "a large volume of text messages" between her and her bailiff during the murder trial. She said she "recognizes her actions have brought disgrace and embarrassment to her family, constituents, the legal profession, her office and the judiciary in general." In a resignation statement Thursday, she said she ran for judge with the hope of restoring the community's faith in the judicial system. "I promised to uphold the Constitution in a fair, even-handed and efficient manner," she said. "I promised to ensure the law and procedures were applied equally to Plaintiff and Defendant alike. In spite of resistance at nearly every turn, I believe that I have done so. "However, being human, I have also faltered." More: Oklahoma Judge Traci Soderstrom caught sending mocking texts through murder trial faces removal What happened during the trial? The trial in June was over the 2018 beating death of a 2-year-old boy. Jurors convicted the defendant of second-degree manslaughter, rather than first-degree murder. The Oklahoman reported in July on the judge's texting after obtaining videos of the inside of the courtroom during the trial. That report resulted in national media attention. The videos show the judge using her cellphone on the bench to text or exchange messages for minutes at a time during jury selection, opening statements and testimony. She also can be seen checking Facebook on her phone. On trial was Khristian Tyler Martzall, 32, of Wellston. He was charged in the death of Braxton Danker, his then-girlfriend's son. Prosecutors at trial asked jurors to find him guilty of first-degree murder either because he abused the boy himself or permitted the mother to do so. The maximum punishment for second-degree manslaughter is four years in prison. Martzall was freed after the verdict because he had already been in jail more than five years. The key witness against him was the boy's mother, Judith Danker. She is serving a 25-year prison sentence for enabling child abuse. Oklahoma's Court on the Judiciary has removed 7 judges The Court on the Judiciary has removed seven judges for oppression in office or other misconduct grounds since its creation more than 50 years ago. Other judges have resigned rather than go on trial, too. Soderstrom, 50, claims to have uncovered "shocking" wrongdoing while in office. She indicated in her resignation statement Thursday she will take action to disseminate the information. "Manipulating the jury selection process, holding citizens without lawful authority, secret tape recordings of judicial officers, and even false threats of criminal prosecution are a small example," she said. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma judge who texted through murder trial resigns There have been countless complaints over the years about the same old, white men being in charge of the Western world. But in the case of Olaf Scholz, the German chancellor, and Chris Coons, the US senator, their physical resemblance is really quite uncanny. On a trip to Washington on Friday to bang the drum for more European and US funding for Ukraine, Mr Scholz had time to take a light-hearted selfie with his doppelganger, Mr Coons. Great to see my doppelganger again @ChrisCoons Mr Scholz said, with a self-deprecating allusion to their similar facial features and advanced stage of male pattern baldness. It was a rare moment of good humour for the German chancellor, who is under intense pressure back home over a migration crisis, a string of major strikes and a wider economic downturn. It also shows that Mr Scholz is comfortable making jokes about himself a sign perhaps that he is much more resilient than his opponents in the German CDU party claim. Mr Coons (left) and Mr Scholz share similar facial features and advanced male pattern baldness Later on Friday, Mr Scholz is due to meet Joe Biden for a discussion about Ukraine funding and the Russia crisis. According to German media reports, he will also be meeting with figures in the Republican party, amid concerns in Berlin that a Donald Trump victory would be catastrophic for Ukraine in its war against Russia. Wartime aid for Ukraine is already in crisis in the United States, where the Republicans have in effect blocked financial support packages for Kyiv in the Senate. Mr Scholz has also repeatedly taken aim at European allies for not spending enough on support for Ukraine. Germany is the largest supporter of Ukraine in financial terms in Europe, having pledged more than 27 billion (23 billion). What has been pledged so far in Europe and what has been pledged by decisions of the US Congress isnt yet enough, Mr Scholz said prior to his departure to Washington. So we must achieve a way for all of us together to do more. He added: [Germany is making] a very big contribution, but it wont be enough on its own if sufficient support doesnt come together everywhere. Now is the moment for us to do what is necessary, give Ukraine the possibility to defend itself, and at the same time send the Russian president a very clear signal: the signal that he cant expect our support to ease off. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. A 21-year-old crew chief from the Kansas City area was one of the five Marines killed when a CH53E helicopter crashed during a storm near San Diego, according to a news release from the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. The Marine Corps confirmed on Friday afternoon that Lance Cpl. Donovan Davis from Olathe died in the crash. The other Marines killed in the crash were identified as Sgt. Alec Langen, 23, a crew chief from Chandler, Arizona, Capt. Benjamin Moulton, 27, a pilot from Emmett, Idaho, Capt. Jack Casey, 26, a pilot from Dover, New Hampshire, and Capt. Miguel Nava, 28, a pilot from Traverse City, Michigan, according to the news release. The four other Marines killed in the helicopter crash were identified as Sgt. Alec Langen, 23, a crew chief from Chandler, Arizona, Capt. Benjamin Moulton, 27, a pilot from Emmett, Idaho, Capt. Jack Casey, 26, a pilot from Dover, New Hampshire, and Capt. Miguel Nava, 28, a pilot from Traverse City, Michigan. All were assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, nicknamed the Flying Tigers, and were based at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego. Davis enlisted in the Marine Corps in September 2019 and was promoted to the rank of lance corporal on Jan. 1. His decorations included the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and a Sea Service Deployment Ribbon. At the time of the crash, the CH-53E Super Stallion and crew were conducting routine flight training. The helicopter vanished late Tuesday while returning to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar from Creech Air Force Base, northwest of Las Vegas. The aircraft was discovered near Pine Valley, east of San Diego. The crash remains under investigation. OLATHE, Kan. Officials have released the identities of the five Marines who died earlier this week in a helicopter crash in California. One was a 21-year-old Marine from Olathe, Kansas. Lance Cpl. Donovan Davis was a crew chief for the CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter that crashed during a storm in the mountains outside San Diego. Davis enlisted in the Marine Corps in September 2019 and was just recently promoted to the rank of lance corporal in January 2024. 7-year-old Independence girl dies after crash blamed on pothole He has been honored with a Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and a Sea Service Deployment Ribbon. Officials have identified the other four Marines killed as: Sgt. Alec Langen, 23, of Chandler, Arizona Capt. Benjamin Moulton, 27, of Emmett, Idaho Capt. Jack Casey, 26, of Dover, New Hampshire Capt. Miguel Nava, 28, of Traverse City, Michigan The five Marines were assigned to Miramars Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing at Miramar. We have been confronted with a tragedy that is every service familys worst fear, Lt. Col. Nicholas J. Harvey, commanding officer of HMH-361, said in a release Friday. UCM warns of hack as students lose financial aid money in scam Our top priority now is supporting the families of our fallen heroes, and we ask for your respect and understanding as they grieve. The Flying Tigers family stands strong and includes the friends and community who have supported our squadron during this challenging time. We will get through this together. Marines have been stationed round-the-clock at the site to stay with the remains, Col. James C. Ford, operations officer with 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego, told the Associated Press on Thursday. Their fellow Marines have remained by their side as Marines do and took shifts throughout the night at the mishap site, keeping watch over our fallen despite the hazardous weather conditions, Ford said Thursday. Our fellow Marines were and continue to be guarded by their brothers and sisters. Authorities said the CH-53E vanished late Tuesday night while conducting a flight training on their way back to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego from Creech Air Force Base, northwest of Las Vegas. Download the FOX4 News app on iPhone and Android The Super Stallion is the largest helicopter in the military, designed to fly through bad weather, even at night. The last known contact with the Super Stallion was at about 11:30 p.m. Tuesday, when waves of downpours and snow were hitting the region, Mike Cornette of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection told CBS 8. That location was based on a ping reported to a Cal Fire dispatch center. The craft was discovered Wednesday morning near Pine Valley, an hours drive from San Diego. The mountain community is at about 3,700 feet in elevation in the Cuyamaca Mountains, an area which saw as much 8 inches of accumulating snow within hours Tuesday night and early Wednesday and saw more falling Wednesday night, forecasters said. Citing the hazardous terrain and weather at the site, Ford said the ground recovery efforts will take place over coming weeks as an investigation into the crash is conducted. The Associated Press contributed to this report. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. Tina and Milo, the new mascots for the 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Milano-Cortina, Italy, were unveiled this week. | Milanocortina2026.olympics.com The official mascots for the next Winter Games, being held two years from now in Milan-Cortina, Italy, will be a pair of, well... weasels known for their luxurious winter pelts, who hang out with a half-dozen snowdrops. Named Milo and Tina after the names of the two host cities, the sibling stoats are the ideal animals to embody the contemporary Italian spirit, according to the International Olympic Committee. Often referred to as ermine when their coats turn white in the winter, stoats are curious by nature and have liveliness and speed along with the resilience necessary to adapt to a challenging habitat such as the mountains, the IOC said. Related More than just a symbolic representation of a region hosting an Olympics, mascots can also be a big moneymaker for Games organizers through the sale of stuffed toys and other merchandise. Paris, the host the 2024 Summer Games, went with a hat, the bright red Phrygian cap worn as a symbol of liberty during the French and even the American Revolutions and dating back to ancient Greece, when they were donned by freed slaves. When Salt Lake City hosted the 2002 Winter Games, a trio of cartoonish critters found in Utah were selected as mascots: Powder, the snowshoe hare; Copper, the coyote; and Coal, the black bear, all named for Utahs natural resources. What organizers of Utahs hoped-for 2034 Winter Games might come up with as a mascot remains to be seen. Salt Lake City is the preferred host for 2034, but a final decision wont be made by the IOC until July. Stoats probably wont be considered, since the creatures are fairly uncommon to see in Utah, although they can be found at high elevations, according to Utah Division of Wildlife Resources spokeswoman Faith Heaton Jolley. Utah is pretty far south of their natural range, she said, and if they do turn up, theyre likely to be called ermine and short-tailed weasels since stoat is an English name thats used in Europe. Related Italy decided to go with them after conducting an online poll a year ago during the countrys most famous song contest. Italians were asked to pick choices submitted by school children, a pair of flowers wearing boots or stoat siblings in helmets. The IOC sees the Italian mascots as carrying a strong message of inclusion and optimism. Milo, who retains his brown coat, is the Paralympic mascot. He is described as having been born without a leg but with a little ingenuity and a lot of willpower, and has learned to use his tail in its place. Snow-white Tina moved from the mountains to the city but still considers nature her home and does everything she can to protect it and keep it as beautiful as it was when she was born. Their watery pals go by The Flo. A tweet from Milan-Cortina organizers shows them as tiny, ski-suited creatures with floppy white hats dancing around Milo and Tina, just six cute snowdrops each with their own personality and peculiarities! OPELIKA, Ala. (WRBL) The Opelika Police is partnering up with 911 Cell Phone Bank (911CPB) to give free cellphones to victims of abuse, senior citizens and other vulnerable citizens in need. The police department says interested individuals can help by donating old cellphones. Cellphones can be dropped off at the Opelika Police Department and police said the phones will be sent by mail to 911CPB. Worried about data on your old phones? Opelika Police assures locals that 911CPB will securely erase data on donated cellphones. For more information about 911CPBs mission, visit their website here. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL. Joe Biden is old. Like each of us, he comes from a particular place in history, in his case the LBJ years. And thats one big reason why his first term has been so full of accomplishment: His age, often cited as the greatest obstacle to his reelection, is actually his superpower. There was never much question that Third Act, the progressive organizing group for people over 60 that I helped found, would end up endorsing President Biden for reelection. We campaign to protect our climate and our democracy, and so the chances we would back Donald Trump who pulled us out of the Paris climate accords and helped mount the Jan. 6 insurrection were nil. (Nikki Haley, another no-go, strenuously backed Trumps Paris pullout.) Read more: Trump's presidential bid hangs in the balance at the Supreme Court. Here's what to know Biden, on the other hand, is a scrupulous small-d democrat. His record on climate isnt perfect, but he has helped jump-start renewable energy development, and just last month he showed real bravery in standing up to Big Oil and pausing new permits for LNG liquid natural gas export. Still, individual policy decisions dont explain why my organizations members are drawn to Biden. Its not that we reflexively like older politicians; we take seriously the need to pass the torch to a new generation. But we also dont unthinkingly dismiss anyone just because they can collect Social Security. Obviously you lose a step physically as you age, but the presidency doesnt require carrying sofas up the White House stairs. And science increasingly finds that aging brains make more connections, perhaps because they have more history to work with. Its the specifics of that history that really draw us in. Read more: Biden wants to complete his goals on civil rights, taxes and social services if reelected The first presidential election in which Joe Biden was eligible to vote featured Lyndon Johnson beating Barry Goldwater. History remembers LBJs presidency as chaotic because of his tragic adventuring in Vietnam, but in other respects it was remarkable. His Great Society echoed Franklin Roosevelts New Deal (FDR was Bidens childhood president). Under Johnson, the federal government took ambitious steps to advance civil rights, to rein in poverty, attack disease, beautify human landscapes and conserve wild ones, and to further science these were the Apollo space program years. Not every project worked, but lots have lasted: Medicare, Medicaid and food stamps, for instance. So Biden was socialized in an era when government took on big causes, and you can see it reflected in his first-term commitment to rebuilding infrastructure on a grand scale, boosting a new sustainable energy economy with billions of dollars for solar panels and battery factories, dramatically increasing the number of people with healthcare, and standing up for gun control, voting rights and reproductive rights. This propensity to go big is different from his immediate predecessors. Barack Obama first got to vote in the Carter-Reagan election of 1980, a landslide for Reagan that repudiated an active role for Washington in domestic policy, replacing it with the idea that government was the problem, and that the free market solves all problems. Reagans triumph was so complete that it altered for a long while the boundaries of our political life: When Obama, at the end of his time in office, was asked why even with 60 Democratic senators at his inauguration his policy achievements Obamacare excepted had been relatively modest, he cited a residual willingness to accept the political constraints that wed inherited from the post-Reagan era. ... Probably there was an embrace of market solutions to a whole host of problems that wasnt entirely justified. Read more: Goldberg: President Biden's job approval rating is abysmal. Here's why he might beat Trump anyway Biden simply doesnt have that residual Reaganism; his political makeup was formed before the Reagan revolution. He watched a booming economy in the Johnson years that narrowed the gap between poor and rich. Reagans economic boom benefited the rich. Now Biden is back in LBJ mode, and the gap has for the first time in decades begun to narrow again. What are Trumps political influences? What presidency might be his model? He first got to vote in 1968s tilt between Hubert Humphrey and Richard Nixon. He didn't inherit any of Nixon's few good qualities (he founded the Environmental Protection Agency, for instance). Trump mainly seems to have adopted Nixon's endless sense of victimization, not to mention his willingness to break the law on his own behalf. Read more: Opinion: Republicans blocking Ukraine aid should consider this hero and hang their heads in shame The commitment to the principles of the New Deal and the Great Society to the idea of America as a group project, not a series of isolated and individual efforts at personal advancement are what we desperately need. Turning over all important decisions to the market has left us on a planet with melting poles and cartoonish levels of inequality. Johnson, of course, wasnt reelected; with the war in Vietnam raging, he didnt even run. Biden appears to have remembered that too, with his forthright decision to finally get us out of Afghanistan. Now Gaza may be the kind of inhuman quagmire that could still bring him down. That would be a shame, because given another four years Biden might well be able to restore confidence in an America that has so destructively turned on itself. Age matters. My cohort agrees. Why did Biden believe he could do what he did in his first term? Because hed seen it done. Lets hope the politicians of the future are watching his successes closely. Bill McKibben is Schumann Distinguished Scholar in Environmental Policy at Middlebury College and founder of Third Act. If its in the news right now, the L.A. Times Opinion section covers it. Sign up for our weekly opinion newsletter. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Editors Note: Fareed Zakaria is the host of Fareed Zakaria GPS, airing at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. ET Sundays on CNN. Follow Fareed on X, and read news, analysis, and insights from Fareed and his team in the daily CNN newsletter Fareeds Global Briefing. The views expressed in this commentary are his own. Read more CNN Opinion. I have been arguing for a long time that the Democratic Party needs to recognize that the crisis at the southern border is real, that it is the result of a totally broken asylum system and that it needs to be fixed urgently. I got lots of pushback from people telling me I was wrong and cruel, and that I was buying into Republican rhetoric. But this week, the Biden administration and Senate Democrats finally acted to fix the system along the lines Republicans have been pushing for only to find Republicans have now changed their minds. Fareed Zakaria - CNN A new Republican argument is that there is no need for any change in laws relating to asylum and that President Joe Biden can simply use executive authority to solve the problem. This is now the view articulated by former President Donald Trump, House Speaker Mike Johnson, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, as well as Elon Musk, among other influential figures. This is a complete turnaround for Republicans. In 2019, Rep. Steve Scalise explicitly argued, It takes congressional action; you need to change the law. The same year, Trump also said, You have to change the loopholes; you have to change asylum. Not anymore. The arch-conservative Oklahoma Sen. James Lankford, who was the Republican negotiator of the Senate bill, noted in amazement, A year ago they said, We need a change in the law. Now the conversation is, Just kidding, we dont need a change in the law. Trump was right in 2019. In fact, he knows it because he tried to use executive authority when he was president, but it either didnt work or was altered or blocked by courts. He was able to turn away people once he could invoke Title 42 during the Covid-19 pandemic on the grounds of a public health emergency. Biden did allow that authority to lapse, but were he to try to invoke it today, courts would almost certainly rule that there is no public health emergency right now. America is still a country of laws, and the president cannot misuse his authority without being checked. The conservative commentator David Frum explained the situation cogently on my CNN program last Sunday. Most people have an image of the problem that comes from the 1990s and 2000s, with hordes of undocumented immigrants crossing the border and evading law enforcement authorities. But that is not whats happening now. Today, people come to the border and rather than running away from the law they run toward it. Many have figured out that if they apply for asylum, they are legally allowed to enter the country and go through an adjudication process that lasts about five to seven years. During that time, they slip into the country and start working. Telling the president to enforce the laws misses the point, Frum told me. He is enforcing the laws; the problem is that the laws need to change. Its not just the laws. The reality is that border authorities are totally overwhelmed, with about five times as many apprehensions at the southwest border in fiscal year 2023 as there were a decade earlier. Even deporting them requires people and funds. US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the agency that actually carries out the deportations, is so low on funds that it will start cutting back on its activities within a few weeks. The Senate bill was a serious effort to solve many problems. It would have provided funding for a large increase in staff more than 4,300 additional asylum officers and support staff and thousands of other new hires in immigration and security. It would have given asylum officers much greater authority to make quick determinations about peoples statuses. It crucially would have shortened the five-to-seven year adjudication process to a first hearing within a target of 90 days and a final determination in another 90 days. And it would have given the government the authority to declare an emergency if the number of arrivals rose beyond certain thresholds, allowing it to turn people away. If the number rose above an average of 5,000 people a day over a week, that authority would have kicked in automatically. Its not perfect. The basic standard to determine whether someone qualifies for asylum is still too low. It has been raised a notch, a senior White House official told me and conceded that the Democratic left had resisted raising it more. House Republicans could play a useful role by raising it even higher. But again, that requires changes to asylum laws. The most obvious proof that Trump realizes that this bill would give the administration powerful tools to address this crisis is that he is so dead set that it should not pass. Were it to pass, it might well solve large parts of the border problem which would not serve him politically. He wrote on social media, This Bill is a great gift to the Democrats. The rest of the West is facing a similar challenge and is grappling with how to adjust immigration and asylum laws. Many countries have taken significant steps. Yet in America, one of its major political parties is determined to inflame the crisis rather than douse it, fiddling while the country burns, hoping that at least they can inherit the smoldering ruins. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Polls. Polls. Polls. For veteran observers (aka political hacks) like your columnists, these are manna from heaven. The Deseret News and the Hinckley Institute of Politics released several surveys in the last week that are savory. We share our thoughts. In the first poll of Utahs U.S. Senate race, the results among Republican voters were: Congressman John Curtis, 18%; attorney Brent Hatch, 14%; former House Speaker Brad Wilson, 8%; Riverton Mayor Trent Staggs, 3%; other candidates combined, 5%; and undecided, 52%. What do these numbers reveal about Utah voters and the state of the race? Pignanelli: The key to getting the most from choice is to be choosy about choosing. Sheena Iyengar Utahns are well-known, savvy, picky shoppers. They are demonstrating this virtue in selecting their next U.S. senator and not rushing the decision. But these numbers reveal much more. Hatchs performance surprised insiders, a testimony to the deep affection for his beloved father, the late Sen. Orrin Hatch. The popular Curtis was expected to enjoy a leading position after seven years in Congress, yet private polls conducted last year yielded higher percentages for him. Wilson still needs to transform his good work as a lawmaker into an engine of support. Curtis PAC allies and the Wilson campaign pumped television advertising late last year that produced limited benefits in the poll. This documents a trend in local and national elections that bombarding airways with commercials is no longer an effective tactic (as demonstrated by Celeste Maloys victory). Greater emphasis on grassroots politics, social media and clever messaging will deliver success in the June primary. This race is still very much up for grabs and more than just a fat campaign account will move the needle among fussy voters. Webb: Whoever wins this race will have to earn it. Curtis and Hatch have the highest name ID at this point, but that wont be enough to win. We recently saw Congresswoman Celeste Maloy come out of nowhere to defeat better-known candidates. Congressman Blake Moore did the same in 2020. Curtis is the front-runner, and rightly so. But all the other candidates will be targeting him, trying to define him as a moderate the second coming of Sen. Mitt Romney (as though thats a bad thing). In reality, Curtis is plenty conservative, but hes not a flame-throwing, name-calling right-winger. Hes a thoughtful, practical conservative. The sort of conservative who actually gets conservative things done instead of just ranting about liberal failures. A major question is whether Hatch can pull off what his father, Orrin Hatch, did way back in 1976. The elder Hatch, an unknown conservative firebrand, pulled off a big upset over better-known establishment candidates. And Wilson is not to be counted out. He has significant establishment support and has raised a lot of money, self-funding a big chunk of it. Money doesnt guarantee a win but, spent wisely, money is a big factor. Another poll result showed Gov. Spencer Cox enjoys a huge lead among Republicans in his reelection bid. He captures 50% support, with 14% combined for other candidates, and 37% undecided. Is this race over? Pignanelli: Although diminishing in numbers, sunny, optimistic conservatives like Cox are a powerful force in American politics. Further, his achievements include economic prosperity despite a global pandemic and explain high approval ratings. Utah continues to be acknowledged as well-managed and poised to win another Olympic bid. His opponents standings reflect the difficulty of their messaging against a proven, popular incumbent. Related Webb: A political earthquake would be required to prevent Cox from winning a second term. The right wing, of course, considers him a dastardly moderate. So Cox, of late, has been burnishing his conservative credentials. He may be pandering a bit to the far right but, at heart, Cox is a solid conservative. Hes also a practical, mainstream conservative who really cares about people. Thats a good thing. Cox should be able to keep most conservatives in the corral while also winning the moderate and independent vote. A survey of 801 registered Utah voters shows a snapshot of the presidential contest, with Donald Trump winning 43% support; Joe Biden, 33%; and any another candidate, 24%. So, are a quarter of Utahns really interested in a third party? Pignanelli: Many Americans and Utahns shudder at a possible rematch of the 2020 election, thereby promoting talk of third parties. These are not far-fetched discussions because Reform party candidate Ross Perot did score second place in Utah in the 1996 elections. Alternative choices (especially anti-vax conservatives or environmentalist liberals) could pull votes from either major candidate, with potential impact on the ultimate outcome. But the question is likely moot. Utah is a deeply red state and Trump will likely prevail. Webb: On paper and in polls, a third-party candidate often looks good. But in actual voting, such candidates seldom do well. Ultimately, people dont want to waste their votes. Lots of voters this year dont like either Trump or Biden, so they are flirting with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. But on Election Day, most of them are going to say, I think Biden is too old and feeble, but I cant stand the thought of Trump in the White House again, so Ill hold my nose and vote for Biden. Or vice versa. People who dont like Trumps morals will vote for him anyway because they think Biden will keep the borders open and crash the economy. Republican LaVarr Webb is a former journalist and a semiretired small farmer and political consultant. Email: lwebb@exoro.com. Frank Pignanelli is a Salt Lake attorney, lobbyist and political adviser who served as a Democrat in the Utah state Legislature. Email: frankp@xmission.com. If the 2024 election is going to be as close as the polls and prognosticators would have us believe, Taylor Swift's army of fans could be a difference maker. (Julio Cortez / Associated Press) The right wings unhealthy obsession with Taylor Swift has hit critical mass in the run-up to this weekends Super Bowl match-up between the San Francisco 49ers and the Kansas City Chiefs. Well set aside the strategic virtue of alienating a public figure who can single-handedly break the internet and focus instead on how Swift should seek revenge. And oh, by the way, if you dont think she understands a thing or two about revenge, just take a listen to Reputation or ask Scooter Braun or David Mueller. Read more: Taylor Swift has driven some far-right pundits to do the unthinkable: Cheer for San Francisco Taylor commands a social media army: 280 million followers on Instagram , 95.1 million on X , 23.9 million on TikTok , 80 million on Facebook and 56.3 million on YouTube . By comparison, Donald Trump has 23.7 million followers on the gram , 87.4 million on X , 24.5 million on Facebook , and 2.8 million on YouTube . The numbers speak for themselves. And there's more. A survey conducted last year by the Morning Consult found that avid Swift fans skew suburban, Democratic and, not surprisingly, female. They're mostly 18 to 39 years old. In the post-Dobbs political landscape, these are among the demographics President Biden most needs to turn out in order to pull off a November win. So while the obvious response to the MAGA hysteria might be to endorse Biden something the presidents team is hoping will happen its not Swifts best move. She endorsed Biden in 2020. Another endorsement isnt going to move the needle. Instead, the single most effective thing Taylor Swift could do to influence the presidential election is use her celebrity, exposure and platforms to get her army of Swifties registered to vote. Read more: I'll be covering Super Bowl LVIII, and by that I mean Taylor and Travis' love story A recent poll conducted by the Harvard Institute of Politics revealed that after record turnout in the 2020 elections, only half of 18-to-29-year-olds who voted then are planning to participate in the 2024 election. A poll conducted by NBC News showed young voters souring on Biden. A USA Today/Suffolk University poll had Biden losing the youth vote to Trump. If this election is going to be as close as the polls and prognosticators would have us believe, activating Swifts army of fans could be a difference maker. Without openly endorsing a candidate, she could launch her own voter registration effort and send the right-wing MAGA-sphere into meltdown mode. Imagine if Swift announced even a handful of relatively modest acoustic concerts in the swing states (Nevada, Arizona, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin) where the price of admission was proof that you were registered to vote. Voter registration booths would be set up in front of the venue. The only problem would be dealing with the crowds. Read more: Abcarian: Really, young voters? You want to teach Democrats a lesson by letting Trump back into the White House? In September, Swifts voter registration superpower went on display. In an Instagram post , she pointed her followers toward the nonpartisan, nonprofit Vote.org website, which reported a 35,000 new-registration surge. In the run-up to the 2018 midterms, a post urging her followers to register to vote was linked to 100,000 new voter registrations in the 18-to-29 demographic. If this is the kind of engagement she generated from single posts, imagine the impact of a swing-state tour in support of voter registration. Trumps MAGA army has made a critical mistake waging open warfare against Taylor Swift. She could very well choose to ignore them. To stay above the fray. To spend 2024 selling out stadiums worldwide via the Eras Tour. To let the conspiracy theorists continue to dissemble. If I were Taylor Swift, I wouldnt dignify the MAGA world with a response or reaction anytime soon. Instead, Id let the campaigns unfold. Then, come fall, when it would matter most, when MAGA has moved on, when everyone has forgotten the insanity of the past few weeks, in a few strategic states that will decide the next election, maybe, just maybe, Swift should extract her revenge. Kurt Bardella is a contributing writer to Opinion. @KurtBardella If its in the news right now, the L.A. Times Opinion section covers it. Sign up for our weekly opinion newsletter. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. (Bloomberg) -- A long-time loyalist of Prime Minister Viktor Orban warned civil society groups and the media that they risked becoming targets of a new institution tasked with rolling back foreign influence in Hungary. Most Read from Bloomberg Tamas Lanczi, who heads the Sovereignty Protection Agency since it started work last week, said hell collaborate with other arms of the state, including the intelligence services, to collect information and expose organizations that receive money from abroad. While the agency wont have the powers to prosecute, its creation has sent a chill among Hungarian groups whove managed to stay outside Orbans orbit. The European Union on Wednesday announced a probe saying the law underpinning the new institution violated democratic norms. The US has said the agency will have draconian tools to intimidate and punish dissenting voices. Everyone has a right to know who wants to interfere in Hungarian elections or in Hungarian political life outside of election season, Lanczi said in an interview on Wednesday. Obviously financial incentives lend themselves to quite strong influence. The agency is the brainchild of Orban, who returned to power in 2010 with the aim of dismantling of liberal democracy. Hes made headway in doing so, while maintaining Hungarys membership in the EU and the NATO military alliance as well as striking up close ties with Russia and China. His successes turned him into an inspiration for like-minded populists including Donald Trump and Argentine President Javier Milei. At the same time, many in the West see Orbans ability to blur the line between democracy and autocracy as one of the most potent threats for the global order. Lanczi said hell probe foreign influence regardless of its origin and will be non-partisan. His past as a loyalist may make that difficult. Hes served as a staffer under an Orban minister, advised the government as a think-tank analyst and most recently ran a news website for state television, the heart of Orbans information machine that rarely airs opposition views. Soros List As the editor of a pro-government weekly in 2018, Lanczi gained notoriety for publishing a Soros list, a tally of hundreds of names from civil society, academia and media that he said were funded by George Soros, the long-time bogeyman of Orban and other nationalist leaders. The list sparked a furor in Hungary for stigmatizing its targets following anti-government demonstrations. While he doesnt plan to draw up lists now, he said the aim of his agency will be similar: to call out those who receive foreign money and to make the connection with attempts to sway Hungarian politics, which Orban has dominated for the last 14 years. Jozsef Peter Martin, head of the Hungarian chapter of Transparency International, calls Orbans system and the new agency Russia-light. The global graft watchdog last week confirmed Hungarys place as the nation perceived to be the most corrupt in the EU. Obviously the aim isnt really to defend sovereignty, otherwise Chinese or Russian influence would have to be probed, Martin said. The aim is manipulation and to have a chilling effect on organizations that are critical of the government. Bleeding Critics Probing potential Russian and Chinese influence via classified nuclear and rail contracts worth billions of dollars wont be a priority for now, Lanczi said. Just because its classified isnt necessarily an issue of sovereignty, he said. Lanczis agency was set up after a political action committee tied to the opposition was reported to have raised funds from the US to stand against Orban in the 2022 parliamentary election. The legislation that underpins his agency now makes that a crime punishable by jail time. Averting a repeat of that situation in European Parliament and municipal elections this year is a priority, Lanczi said. The irony isnt lost in Hungary. Orban has worked to financially bleed critical media, non-governmental organizations and political parties of domestic funds while lavishing state resources on those that support him. Hes also sought to export his brand of illiberal democracy. A bank close to the government helped finance Marine Le Pens bid in the last French presidential election. Orban has also publicly endorsed Trump and his ministers regularly stump for far-right candidates around Europe. Im responsible for Hungarys sovereignty, Lanczi said in the basement of a cafe thats a favorite with government officials. Each country decides how sensitively it reacts to attacks against its sovereignty. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) An amendment introduced to the Oregon legislature on Thursday would create a misdemeanor charge for people who use illicit drugs on public transit and aims to connect offenders to addiction treatment. An amendment to Senate Bill 1553 which orders the Oregon Health Authority to study the addiction crisis would add illicit drug use on public transit to the interfering with public transportation (IPT) statute making illicit drug use on public transit and public transit stations, a Class A misdemeanor. The bill would classify this form of IPT as a drug-designated misdemeanor, so people who are convicted of the crime can have access to state-funded treatment in many instances, according to the Oregon Transit Association and the Amalgamated Transit Union 757. Case of human plague confirmed in Deschutes County In support of the bill, the two unions noted in a press release that the fentanyl addiction crisis in the state had led to unprecedented public emergency declarations, and a widespread use of illicit drugs in public including on the states public transportation systems. The unions emphasized the importance for public transit to feel safe and accessible to all Oregonians adding this bill will give law enforcement tools to keep public transit, riders, and employees safe. Transit is a vital public resource and a unique type of public space, said Derek Hofbauer, Board President for the Oregon Transit Association. Unlike sidewalks and other open public spaces, transit riders must wait at designated transit stops and stations, making it difficult to avoid exposure to illicit drug use. City considers foreclosure of 6 nuisance properties in Portland Public transit must be a drug-free zone, added Shirley Block, President of Amalgamated Transit Union 757. Our union operators and transit field staff have the right to do their jobs without worrying about the unpredictable behavior of people using illicit drugs or fearing potential long-term exposure to drug fumes. In a statement, TriMet Oregons largest public transit provider voiced support for the bill. We value the health and well-being of our riders and employees, and thats why we have made a number of significant investments in our safety and security workforce and initiatives in recent years. The majority of our personnel is unarmed, by design, and trained in de-escalation, and police response is always a last resort. However, in situations where law enforcement involvement proves necessary, Senate Bill 1553-1 gives police the tools they need to help keep the rampant use of illegal drugs that is surging in our community off our system, TriMet said in a press release. Multiple adults banned from Vancouver school after physical confrontation with student The agency continued, Public transit must feel safe and comfortable for everyone to use, particularly for the most vulnerable members of our community many of whom rely on TriMet as a lifeline to jobs, schools and essential services. No one should worry about the unpredictable and potentially dangerous behavior of people who are using illicit drugs or fear exposure to fumes, needles and residue. TriMet says the bill is the right balance of accountability and approach to substance use disorder by making illicit drug use on public transit a misdemeanor to help people in crisis access state-funded treatment. TriMet is dedicated to continuously improving safety and security on board, but its clear, we cannot do it alone. That is why we have been urging state and local leaders to address drug use and addiction in the community, and understand the challenges unique to transit. Senate Bill 1553-1 does just that, TriMet added. Oregonians divided on whether to repeal Measure 110 as legislature contemplates bill In an interview with KOIN 6 News, TriMets Chief Safety Officer, Andrew Wilson, explained drug use and smoking are already prohibited by TriMe. However, the bill would give law enforcement more tools to hold offenders accountable. The crisis thats on our streets right now, we cannot afford that to spill off onto our transit system. Our transit system needs to be effective, and healthy, and vibrant for economic development reasons, as well as our mission to serve some of the most vulnerable in the community and give them safe and reliable service, Wilson said. We have a health-centered approach here at TriMet. We developed our team significantly over the last several years and doubled the amount of our budget for unarmed security services out in the system since 2020, we doubled the amount of safety and security personnel we have in the system since 2022, he added. Some of those personnel are related to our safety response team, and that particular group actually does outreach services carries water bottles, Narcan and is really on the front line of this drug epidemic. 2023 poll finds negative views on Portland-area, homelessness a top issue for voters So, its not like we havent developed those things, Wilson continued. But at the end of the day, we still need effective law enforcement to keep this off of our system. And so, adding this to the existing interfering with transit law thats out there, will allow transit and law enforcement in the area to effectively hold people accountable and get them in touch with treatment services and elevate that so we can ensure we have safe transit for all. The bill comes after a 2023 University of Washington study found most transit surfaces in Oregon and Washington tested positive for drugs, including meth and fentanyl. The researchers noted that a majority of the positive samples contained small traces of the drug and were not enough to pose health risks to passengers or drivers. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. For many, a hot shower is a part of the daily routine, but for countless homeless youth in Central Florida, access to basic hygiene needs can be a struggle. WATCH CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS A collaborative effort between several Central Florida organizations seeks to offer some relief. The nonprofit organization Service and Love Together, or SALT, unveiled a new mobile shower facility Friday specifically for homeless kids and young adults. READ: How vertiport development landed at a local airport Nicknamed The Beast the mobile shower trailer is the newest addition to services available to Central Floridas homeless. It features three restrooms and a washer and dryer. Its dedicated to young adults experiencing homelessness in Central Florida, " SALT Executive Director Eric Camarilla explained. Camarillo thanks a partnership with Simply Healthcare Plans, which presented a $150,000 check to pay for the trailer. An $8.4-million federal grant awarded to the Homeless Services Network of Central Florida funds the initiative. READ: New details on Disneys big $60B investment in parks, cruises, more The shower is meant specifically for Central Floridas fastest growing homeless group. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Central Florida has the highest concentrations of youth homelessness in the nation. Seminole County has about 2,700 youth between the ages of 16 and 24 experiencing homelessness right now. In Osceola County, there are another 3,000, and in Orange County, approximately 6,700. Having once been homeless himself, Camarillo says he still remembers the despair he felt. When you are homeless and you cant take a shower for three or four days in the Florida heat, it is unbearable, Camarillo said. READ: Florida lawmakers may impose fines for slow drivers cruising in fast lanes Because of a recent fire at the Coalition for the Homeless in Orlando, the trailer will be located at Shiloh Baptist Church on West Jackson St. for the next two weeks to help with that effort. After that, the mobile shower will be placed at Covenant House Florida on Colonial Drive. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. An Orlando man has been sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of the murder of former Orange County government attorney Erin Hartigan. William Ramon Franklin, 36, was arrested in August 2020, and has been awaiting trial for over three years. In a six-day trial, a jury found Franklin guilty earlier this week of first degree murder with a weapon, according to a press release by the Ninth Judicial Court State Attorneys office. The victim was found dead at around 4:00 a.m. on August 16, 2020, in her Delaney Park home with multiple stab wounds. There were no signs of forced entry. Hartigan, 44, had worked as an assistant county attorney for four years. Orlando police were initially unable to establish a connection between the victim and the suspect until a K-9 unit found a hot trail that led to a pair of bloody knives at a neighbors home. A pair of shorts belonging to the suspect was also found in Lake Lurna, where OPD found Franklin swimming. Before the victim was found, Franklin was at Orlando Regional Medical Center receiving treatment for a bad reaction to drugs. He said to police that he had no memory of the events that took place between his hospital visit and his lake swim. Two doctors testified that Franklin was going through substance-induced psychosis at the time of the murder. Franklin initially made claims to Orange County officials that he voluntarily ingested street Percocet but later changed his story and claimed his beer was spiked with Percocet. The changed version apparently came after Franklin learned the legal implications of the difference between voluntary and involuntary intoxication. Franklins defense attorney claimed insanity by involuntary intoxication, but the person who provided Franklin with the drug said she did not spike his beer. Dr. Richard Strauss has been accused of sexually abusing hundreds of former students while he worked for Ohio State University from 1978 to 1998. This photo was included with his 1978 application to Ohio State's medical staff. Ohio State University is trying to block the admission into court of an independent report that concluded Dr. Richard Strauss sexually abused students and that the university failed to act. The legal sparring comes in a lawsuit seeking compensation from the university that was filed by dozens of former students alleging administrators allowed Strauss to sexually abuse them. More than 200 men have sued in federal court in multiple similar lawsuits. The plaintiffs attorneys have sought to admit into evidence the report by an outside law firm that the university released in May 2019. At the time, then-OSU President Michael V. Drake apologized to Strauss victims and called it a fundamental failure that the university did not prevent the abuse. The report, the plaintiffs attorneys state in court filings, concludes that even though students complained of abuse from 1979 to 1996, OSU personnel took no meaningful action. The next court date in this case is set for Feb. 29. Attorneys for the university wrote in court filings that the plaintiffs request is premature at this stage in litigation as well as wrong, calling the report hearsay. According to the university's lawyers, a federal appeals court ruled that each plaintiff must prove that at the time of their alleged abuse, Ohio State administrators knew of Strauss conduct and failed to respond an issue the universitys attorneys claim is not resolved in the report. Ohio State has reached settlement agreements with 296 survivors, more than half of the plaintiffs, for more than $60 million. All male students who filed lawsuits were offered the opportunity to settle, said Ben Johnson, OSU's assistant vice president, media and public relations. jlaird@dispatch.com @LairdWrites This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Ohio State University seeks to block Strauss abuse report from court Manchester resident Genese Martinez helped operate on a pregnant dog on a kitchen table that led to the animal needing to be euthanized, warrant says. Manchester police / Contributed photo MANCHESTER A local woman is accused of helping complete an unlicensed C-section on a pregnant dog that resulted in the animal's death, according to the warrant for her arrest. The woman admitted to police that the surgery took place on a kitchen table and she didn't know what medication the dog was given during or after the surgery, the warrant said. Genese Martinez, 43, was charged Jan. 29 with cruelty to animals and was released after posting a $100,000 bond. She is scheduled to appear in state Superior Court in Vernon on Feb. 20. Advertisement Article continues below this ad According to the warrant written by a state animal control officer, Martinez came under investigation last June when a veterinarian at Connecticut Veterinary Center reported that a severely ill dog was brought to the emergency room. According to the warrant, the dog had undergone a C-section eight days earlier, but it was clear the surgery wasn't performed by a licensed veterinarian. The dog was in critical condition at that point and the veterinarian was concerned the animal had an abdominal infection, a life-threatening condition, the warrant said. A blood test showed the dog had a severe infection and the owner chose to have it euthanized, according to the warrant. The owner told police she met Martinez, who she believed was a retired veterinarian, in April when the woman performed an ultrasound test on her dog to confirm she was pregnant, according to the warrant. When her dog neared the end of her pregnancy, but did not give birth, Martinez advised her that the animal needed a C-section, according to the warrant. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The day of the surgery they met at the Mansfield Drive-in and Martinez took her dog, the warrant stated. She returned several hours later with the addition of five puppies, according to the warrant. Martinez advised her that one other puppy had died, the warrant stated. Her dog appeared to be in pain in the following days so she contacted Martinez, who advised her to see a veterinarian if the dog didn't get better, the warrant stated. Two animal control officers spoke with Martinez in August. She told officials she originally advised the dog owner to see a veterinarian, but the owner couldn't afford it, according to the warrant. Instead, she contacted a man she knew who breeds dogs and he offered to perform the surgery, the warrant stated. Martinez refused to identify the man, but said she brought the dog to an address in Mansfield. She intended to wait outside until the man asked her to help, according to the warrant. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A hit-and-run crash in a Kendall condo parking lot nearly turned deadly when the owner of the car shot the man who damaged his vehicle Friday morning, Miami-Dade County police said. Lazaro Hernandez, 36, was charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon as he recovered from a gunshot to the face at Jackson South Medical Center, police announced Friday night. Around 5:40 a.m., Hernandez drove his truck into Christian Hernandez Calvos parked car in the Village at Dadeland, a condo complex at 7344 SW 82nd St., according to police. Hernandez quickly sped away. Police said as Hernandez Calvo, 46, was assessing the damage, the driver returned and intentionally drove his car toward him. Hernandez Calvo told police he thought he was going to be run over, so he pulled a gun out and opened fire, striking the driver in the face, said Detective Angel Rodriguez, a police spokesman. Hernandez, the driver, sped off again but was found a short time later at Southwest 72nd Street and 73rd Avenue, just east of the Palmetto Expressway exit at Sunset Drive, Rodriguez said. Miami-Dade County Fire Rescue paramedics transported him to Jackson South Medical Center in stable condition, Rodriguez said. Miami-Dade police investigate a shooting that happened early Friday morning, Feb. 9, 2024, in the parking lot of the Village at Dadeland condo complex. Magnolia Hernandez, 40, who lives in the complex, told the Miami Herald that a gunshot woke her up around 5:30 a.m. When she ran downstairs and opened her door, she said she recognized the car of her former partner, Lazaro Hernandez, and saw him drive away. He is the father of their children, she said, adding they had lived together for 18 years. She is still listed on his emergency contacts on his phone, and hospital staff called her to say he was there being treated for a gunshot wound, Hernandez said. The Kendall apartment complex where a hit-and-run crash led to a shooting early Friday morning, Feb. 9, 2024. This embedded content is not available in your region. Video above: Supreme Court takes up Trump election interference case TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) A Pasco County man pleaded guilty Thursday to an offense committed during the Jan. 6, 2021 riot at the U.S. Capitol. Ryan K. Yates, 37, of Holiday, was arrested by the FBI over two years after a mob of former President Donald Trumps supporters stormed the building in an attempt to overturn the results of the 2020 election. Pasco County threatens legal action over unconstitutional affordable housing tax exemption He was charged with civil disorder, entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly conduct in a Capitol building, and parading, demonstrating, or picketing in a Capitol building. Yates pleaded guilty to the felony civil disorder charge on Thursday. Travel of a device using the Yates email through the Capitol (DOJ) Data obtained from Google pointed investigators to Yates, according to court documents. His location data placed him at several locations within the building and Capitol grounds, which was corroborated by security camera footage and bystander video. Wearing a camouflage-colored Make America Great Again hat and white gloves, Yates was photographed moving police barricades, which allowed the crowd to reach the Capitol. Once inside, he walked to the House of Representatives side of the building and stood near a group that was trying to break in to the chamber. Yates on the National Mall (left) and moving barricades (right). (DOJ) He later appeared as part of a mob trying to breach the police line in the Rotunda. He worked his way to the front of the group, and, along with a handful of other rioters, was able to push against police to get inside the Rotunda itself before officers were able to get the door closed, the criminal complaint stated. Yates at the Rotunda doors (left) and Yates being escorted from the Rotunda (right). (DOJ) Security cameras captured Yates being escorted out of the Rotunda with his arms raised. He then left the Capitol. The FBIs Tampa office confirmed Yates identity in the photos and videos after interviewing him. A close associate verified that he appeared in the images and sent agents a years-old photo of Yates in the same hoodie he wore to the Capitol. Yates sentencing hearing is scheduled for June 12. He faces up to five years in prison, a $250,000 fine or supervised release period for the civil disorder charge. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. PATASKALA, Ohio (WCMH) Retail theft accounts for billions of dollars in losses every year for retailers across the country. The retail theft boom has been seen in central Ohio as well. Pataskala police are looking for two men who stole two Milwaukee brand drills from Napa Auto Parts and Hardware store on Feb. 2. Security footage shows one man with a distinct neck tattoo go into the store in the afternoon, walk around for less than two minutes, then grab two drills and walk out. New witness comes forward, causing delay in Jason Meade murder trial Walks in and how casually he did it makes me believe this isnt his first time, said Sgt. Michael Reitz with Pataskala Police Department. Another man was waiting in a vehicle to drive away as soon as the man came out of the store. But it was all caught on camera, which helps officers. Good surveillance cameras helps us. In this particular case we have great surveillance footage. Its clear. Grainy out of date cameras, it really doesnt do us much good if we cant pick out the facial features of a suspect, Reitz said. Reitz had suggestions for those who may witness a theft. First call us, get the police on the way, Reitz said. Try to get a direction of travel and make and model of the vehicle and license plate would be great. Pataskala Police are asking for the publics help identifying the young man walking out of the hardware store with the drills. They say the only way they can make an arrest is if they have good, clear, surveillance footage of a suspect. Reitz said retail theft is just one of the issues turning up more often for police. Young adults are trying door handles and they come across a firearm and now we have kids on the street with firearms, which is a huge problem, he said. What once was a small issue is now requiring more work for officers, and putting the public in more danger with guns on the streets when they arent properly stored. We probably got maybe one gun a month off the streets. Now, we have one, two, three guns a week were seeing getting off the streets, Reitz said. In Franklin County, Sgt. Bill Duffer has been working for the Franklin County Sheriffs Office for 30 years. Probably over the last three years or so weve seen about a 10% in retail thefts in Franklin County, he said. Duffer called the uptick a significant amount. Duffer has seen all types of retail theft. He said thieves no longer use the traditional shoplifting technique of concealing items. People will walk in, take a cart, load it up, sometimes with big ticket items and then just leave the store. Walk past all points of sale right out the door. And theres really nothing at the store to stop them, Duffer said. Once items are stolen, he said often theyre sold online or at pawn shops. He said there is a database for law enforcement and pawn shop owners to track exactly who is selling what items which can sometimes help kickstart an investigation. However, he said the new trend of smash and grab thefts are hard to police. Theyre emboldened, theyre brazen. They know that in the end not much is going to happen to them, and theyre probably going to make it out of the store with the stuff to begin with, Duffer said. Duffer also mentioned that the penalty for retail theft isnt enough to deter thieves from doing it. The way the criminal justice system is set up, you know someones apprehended for a theft and you know basically its a slap on the wrist and theyre back out. So, theres not really much deterrent out there to stop retail thieves from stealing from stores. Theres really not. Unfortunately, its a minor charge that they end up with and theyre back out on the street in no time, Duffer said. So, what can be done about the penalty? That would be more of a legislative issue perhaps to strengthen the penalties for committing a theft offense, Duffer said. When it comes to deterring retail theft from a stores perspective, Duffer said oftentimes employees are trained to not intervene with a potential theft. They discourage, and rightfully so, they discourage their employees from attempting to stop theftsyou dont want to get someone hurt over store property. They discourage that. Thieves know that, he said. Thieves also know exactly how much the items they steal are worth and stay under a certain amount to avoid a felony. Trust me, thieves know that if Im under a thousand its not a felony, Duffer said. Policing and investigating crimes that dont turn up heavy penalties can also require lots of resources for law enforcement. Definitely retail theft can be a drain on law enforcement resources, Duffer said. These sorts of things are going to pull officers, deputies away from other duties, from patrol duties and can tie them up for long periods of time. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. PATERSON Almost one out of every five shootings in Paterson last year was connected to illegal clubs in the city, law enforcement officials say. So Isa Abbassi, the state-appointed officer in charge of the Paterson Police Department, announced Thursday that he will launch a crackdown in the spring targeting illegal nightclubs and after-hours establishments. Police officials said those businesses are known for illegal alcohol sales, violent crime, drug and human trafficking and gambling. The people of this city deserve to feel safe in their neighborhoods and enjoy a peaceful, quiet night without the worries of whatever may spill out of the illegal nightclubs that have plagued this city for far too long, Abbassi said. How will the crackdown work? Authorities have not revealed details of the crackdown strategy, such as how many police officers would be assigned to the "Nightlife Task Force. The Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control would be one of the partners in the effort, officials said. The task force will pursue both criminal and civil penalties against violators. The group also will focus on other quality-of-life issues that surround illegal nightclubs, including noise complaints, disorderly conduct and unsafe double parking, officials said. Payment dispute: Why did Paterson police pull off-duty cops from St. Josephs emergency room security work? More from Paterson Press: Retirements leave Paterson Police Department down 32 officers from full force of 439 What did officials say? Mayor Andre Sayegh, who has opposed the state takeover of the Paterson Police Department, embraced the plans for the Nightlife Task Force. This initiative is completely consistent with the work I have done dating back to my days as a city councilman, said Sayegh, who in 2011 led the charge against the infamous Lava Lounge in South Paterson. For 16 years, I have made it a point to shut down notorious and nefarious nightclubs that wreak havoc in our neighborhoods, the mayor said. This quality-of-life campaign is an example of strategic alignment. City Council President Alex Mendez also praised Abbassis plan. These illegal establishments bring other crime, Mendez said. Joe Malinconico is editor of Paterson Press. Email: editor@patersonpress.com This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Paterson NJ police to crack down on illegal nightclubs Peninsula is finally on track to develop a long-sought sanitary sewer system with a financial boost from Summit County. The village's recent acceptance into the Summit County Metropolitan Sewer District also could improve Akron's chance of striking a deal with federal officials to lower the city's cost to comply with a consent decree that has already required taxpayers to foot the bill for more than $1 billion in sewer overhaul projects. The county has designated $7.5 million from its American Rescue Plan Act funds to help build a wastewater treatment facility in Peninsula. The plant would keep septic tank runoff from polluting the Cuyahoga River. Akron officials have said the project along with other proposed actions will eliminate the need for a pricy new wastewater treatment facility that is currently part of the federal mandate. While the treatment plant will fill a major infrastructure gap in the village of about 536 people, Peninsula also continues to pursue a plan to pipe drinking water into the community and officials are hoping to secure funding for this in time to install waterlines at the same time the sewer work is being performed. Peninsula confronted with river pollution issues tied to septic systems In 2018 and 2019, Summit County Public Health and the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency identified elevated levels of E. coli in samples taken from the Cuyahoga River in Peninsula. The agencies began discussions in 2020 with the village's newly established wastewater committee, and the Ohio EPA recommended a centralized sewer system as way to put Peninsula in compliance with the Clean Water Act. That led to talks with Summit County and a proposal to use ARPA funds to pay for the project, said Michael Vinay, the county's director of sanitary sewer services. "The village and the county had further discussions, came to an agreement and Peninsula leaders agreed to apply to join the sewer district last December," he said. The process included collecting feedback from residents. On Jan. 29, Summit County Council accepted Peninsula into the Summit County Metropolitan Sewer District, ensuring the village will build a "centralized sanitary sewer collection system" that eliminates septic issues and reduces the threat of elevated E. coli in the Cuyahoga, Vinay said. The county has issued a request for proposals to design the project; those forms are due Feb. 20. "Once the design is complete, we will go out for public bid for the construction of the project and we are hoping to do that by the end of the year," Vinay said. "Once the construction firm has an acceptable bid, we will go to County Council to approve that construction contact to begin work next year in 2025 and be done sometime in 2026." Akron awaits next decision on its own sewer overhaul County and Akron city officials have emphasized the Peninsula sewer project's potential to boost Akron's case for amending its consent decree, but the two are not inextricably tied. Vinay said the village's plan will move forward regardless of how Akron's bid turns out. Akron officials are awaiting a response on a proposed fourth amendment to the consent decree, asking the federal EPA to drop its requirement for a new $209 million water treatment facility in response to measures to remove old septic systems throughout the city and in nearby communities. "We are hopeful that we might get that decision within the next month," said Stephanie Marsh, the city's communications director. Akron was ordered in 2009 to overhaul its water and sewage system after the U.S. EPA determined untreated wastewater and sewage was contaminating the Cuyahoga River, the Little Cuyahoga River and the Ohio Canal. Akron accepted the consent decree in 2014 and has completed 24 out of the 26 required projects. The next phase of the project is the construction of the Northside Interceptor Tunnel, a 16.5-foot diameter, mile-long tunnel that will prevent the sewer system from overflowing from heavy rainfall. The U.S. EPA originally wanted the tunnel to be 24 feet in diameter, but city officials were able to push back, saving taxpayers millions of dollars. The new tunnel will begin construction later this year. Additionally, a combined sewer area known as Rack 34 will get new storm sewers while current combined sewers will be reused as separate sanitary sewers. The Rack 34 combined sewer project as well as the adjusted Northside Interceptor Tunnel diameter were part of Akron's third amendment to the consent decree. Anthony Thompson can be reached at ajthompson@gannett.com, or on Twitter @athompsonABJ This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Peninsula joins Summit sewer district, gets $7.5M for treatment plant (WHTM) Video circulating on social media appears to show Pennsylvania State Representative Kevin Boyle (D-Philadelphia) intoxicated at a bar threatening to use his position to close the establishment. The more than three minute video, which has been viewed tens of thousands of times on X, shows Boyle repeatedly refusing to leave the bar. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now This Week in Pennsylvania I can f end this bar by the way, Boyle said, later adding this bar is done! Do you know who the f I am? This bar is done tomorrow! Boyle, 44, also repeatedly calls patrons and staff actors and members of the military, threatening to prevent (their) promotion. Pennsylvania House Democratic Leaders released the following statement on Friday afternoon. We are aware of a video circulating on social media. It is very troubling. Rep. Boyle has been open about his personal challenges. We are encouraged that our colleague and dear friend is seeking help. Our commitment to delivering mental health services does not stop at the Capitol Steps. One of the main reasons we advocate so strongly for mental health access is the reality that challenges can and do happen to anyone, and seeking treatment should be encouraged, not stigmatized. Boyle has served in the State House since 2011 and is currently Chair of the State Insurance Committee. He won re-election for his 172nd House District seat in 2022 with 57% of the vote. Boyle has not yet filed petitions, which are due next week, to run in the 2024 election. The 172nd District covers part of Philadelphias Fox Chase neighborhood near Cheltenham. He is the brother of United States Representative Brendan Boyle. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. Red, blue, and now green lots. A new parking company has opened in Pensacola, adding to downtown's confusing parking landscape that already had one private parking management company in conflict with the city of Pensacola. Level Parking is a new parking management company that oversees a private parking lot at 25 W. Government St. and has been advertising locally on social media. The new company is owned by Philip Olivier, who recently worked as a consultant for the city of Pensacola and recommended parking changes, including raising rates and switching to the mobile phone app ParkMobile for online parking payments. Olivier confirmed to the News Journal that he owned the newly established company based in Pensacola. Olivier's contract as the city parking consultant ended in December. Level Parking appears to have started managing the Government Street lot in November, according to photos posted by the company on Google Maps. Level Parking is also using ParkMobile to handle its online payments. ParkMobile is the nation's largest parking app used by private and municipal parking lots. The city of Pensacola began using the app in January. The News Journal asked Olivier if he saw a conflict of interest in recommending ParkMobile for the city while also going into business with the company himself. "After thorough research into parking solutions for Pensacola, it became evident that ParkMobile stood out as the optimal choice," Olivier said in a written statement. "Thus, opting to utilize the same app for Level Parking was a natural decision. This approach maintains consistency for downtown parkers across both private and public parking and allows us to leverage the extensive user base that ParkMobile enjoys locally, regionally, and nationally." Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves said in a written statement to the News Journal that he had no comment on Level Parking but added the city does not have authority over how private parking lot owners operate on their private property. "All Pensacola lot owners are free to negotiate and choose the parking management software of their choice, including their own independent agreement with ParkMobile, which is the largest parking solution provider in the United States," Reeves said in the statement. "The citys new agreement with ParkMobile is independent of any private lot in the city. We are thrilled with our results so far 14,000+ parking transactions and two complaints since Jan. 1 and we are looking forward to seeing more ParkMobile users across the city in the future." ParkMobile is a way to pay for parking, but enforcement of parking rules are up to the owners of the parking lots. The city issues tickets that must be paid before the vehicle's owner can renew their car tag. However, private lot owners have no way to enforce fines other than through the use of bill collectors. Some lot owners turned to booting or towing to enforce parking rules. The situation has led to confusion among residents, with the city being wrongfully blamed for the more draconian enforcement measures by private lot owners. A University of West Florida Haas Center survey conducted last year showed that a large portion of visitors to downtown don't know the difference between privately owned lots and lots managed by the city. The survey asked residents what color the signs were for city-managed parking, and about 31% identified the wrong color. Only 69% of respondents identified the correct color of blue for city-managed parking areas and red for privately managed parking lots. Level Parking now adds green signs to the mix. For parking violators at Level Parking, Olivier said his company will not tow or boot but rather will issue $25 fines for violators. "Our primary goal is to offer parking management services that combine robust operational strategies with competitive returns for private parking lot owners, all the while ensuring a seamless app experience and consistent enforcement practices for downtown parkers," Olivier said in a written statement. Olivier is also in a legal battle with another private parking management company that operates in Pensacola: Premium Parking. Olivier was previously president of the Gulf Coast market for Premium Parking before he left the company in April 2023. The company alleges he stole the company's trade secrets and embezzled company funds by hiring shell companies to perform work done by Premium employees. Olivier has denied the allegations in court filings and sought the lawsuit's dismissal. This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Pensacola parking confusion grows with new Level Parking firm Chinese provincial-level regions report remarkable economic performance in 2023 09:50, February 09, 2024 By Wang Wenzheng ( People's Daily Recently, 31 provinces, municipalities and autonomous regions in China successively released their economic performance for 2023 and announced their economic development targets for the coming year. Guangdong became the first province to surpass 13 trillion yuan ($1.83 trillion) in GDP, while Jiangsu maintained its position as the top recipient of actual utilization of foreign investment. Besides, two new cities have joined the "trillion-yuan-GDP club." These highlights serve as a vivid testament to the upward trend and positive development of the Chinese economy. All 31 provinces, municipalities and autonomous regions saw their GDP grow in the past year. Xizang autonomous region and Hainan province led the country with GDP growth rates of 9.5 percent and 9.2 percent respectively, followed by Inner Mongolia autonomous region with a growth rate of 7.3 percent. In addition, Ningxia Hui autonomous region, Gansu province, Jilin province, Chongqing municipality, Shandong province, Sichuan province, Zhejiang province reported GDP growth rates above 6 percent. The majority of Chinese provincial-level regions have experienced GDP growth rates ranging from 4 percent to 6 percent. Vehicles are assembled in the general assembly workshop of a new energy vehicle plant of Chinese automaker Dayun in Yuncheng, north China's Shanxi province, Jan. 25, 2024. (Photo by Yan Xin/People's Daily Online) Guangdong province's GDP has surpassed 13 trillion yuan for the first time, with year-on-year growth of 4.8 percent. Its economic output has remained the highest in the country for 35 consecutive years. The government work report of Guangdong province highlighted the vitality and resilience of the private economy. In the past year, the number of operating entities in the province has exceeded 18 million, including over 10 million individual businesses. The number of enterprises has surpassed 7.8 million, accounting for 1/7 of the national total. Jiangsu province reported GDP of over 12 trillion yuan, ranking second nationwide. Shandong province, ranking third, crossed the 9-trillion-yuan mark for the first time. Zhejiang province ranked fourth with GDP of over 8 trillion yuan, the first time for it to achieve so. Apart from the increasing quantity, the GDP statistics also mirrored high-quality development. Shandong province has been consecutively selected as the province with the best business environment in the country. It is home to 15 national-level characteristic industry clusters for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), as well as 299 "little giant firms" - specialized and sophisticated SMEs that produce novel and unique products. The total number of technology SMEs in the province has exceeded 45,000. Beijing's per capita GDP, labor productivity, and energy and water consumption per unit of GDP maintained the best level among provincial-level regions in the country. Shanghai reached a record-breaking scale of actual utilization of foreign investment, reaching $24 billion. Its total trading volume in the financial market increased by 15 percent, maintaining its attraction to global investors. Express parcels are sorted at a mail distribution center in Xiangcheng district, Xiangyang, central China's Hubei province, Jan. 11, 2024. (Photo by Xie Yong/People's Daily Online) It is reported that there are currently 26 cities in China that have achieved a GDP of over 1 trillion yuan, also known as the "trillion-yuan club." Among them, Jiangsu province has the highest number of cities in this club, including Suzhou, Nanjing, Wuxi, Nantong, and Changzhou. Guangdong province has four cities in the club, namely Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Foshan, and Dongguan. Additionally, Qingdao, Jinan, and Yantai in Shandong province, Hangzhou and Ningbo in Zhejiang province, as well as Fuzhou and Quanzhou in Fujian province, are also part of this group. In 2024, various local governments in China have set their goals for the new year in their work reports. Xizang and Hainan, which saw the fastest GDP growth in 2023, have set their growth targets for this year at around 8 percent, the highest among all provincial-level regions. Most other provinces have set their GDP growth targets for 2024 at around 5 percent, which is roughly in line with the national GDP growth rate in 2023. It is worth noting that the term "new productive forces" appeared for the first time in the work reports of several provincial-level regions. Sichuan province, for example, will focus on the layout and vigorous development of the artificial intelligence industry in order to promote new productive forces. Anhui province has proposed supporting the growth and expansion of the automobile industry and building world-class enterprises with Anhui characteristics. Shanghai has listed 34 livelihood projects for 2024, including the addition of 4,000 beds for elderly care, 30 community canteens for the elderly, and the renovation of 3,000 beds for cognitive impairment care. Additionally, there will be an increase of 3,000 seats in public kindergartens and 7,000 seats of community childcare places. A total of 70,000 units of affordable rental housing and over 10,000 units of affordable housing will be constructed, along with the installation of 3,000 elevators in existing multi-story residential buildings. Childcare, elderly care, and housing were buzzwords in Shanghai's annual targets for the new year. Photo taken on Jan. 31 shows tourists on a beach of Sanya, south China's Hainan province. (Photo by Ye Longbin/People's Daily Online) Ningbo, as a major city in foreign trade and manufacturing, will continue to leverage its advantages in 2024. The city vowed to achieve a growth rate in the value added of strategic emerging industries two percentage points higher than that of the industries above designated size. Additionally, it aims to establish over 30 provincial-level or higher demonstration projects in areas such as intelligent manufacturing and industrial internet. Furthermore, Ningbo plans to regularize the business of international navigation vessel bonded liquefied natural gas refueling. In addition, boosting domestic demand and promoting consumption are also key tasks highlighted in the government work reports of multiple regions. Beijing, focusing on the construction of an international consumption center city, has proposed to make great efforts to stimulate potential consumption by promoting the transformation and upgrading of traditional commercial areas and establishing international consumption experience zones. Jiangsu has put forward plans to enhance the cultivation and promotion of new consumption formats in cultural tourism, aiming to create more trendy products and renew consumption scenarios. In 2024, various regions in China are accelerating their pace. (Web editor: Cai Hairuo, Zhong Wenxing) Brookfield High School on Feb. 26, 2015. H John Voorhees III/Hearst Connecticut Media BROOKFIELD A student or students were disciplined for destroying a newly installed menstrual products dispenser in a boys bathroom at Brookfield High School, according to the principal, who called it an egregious instance of vandalism and destruction of property. Within about 20 minutes of its installation on Jan. 24, the dispenser, which was placed in the bathroom in response to an upcoming new state law, was vandalized, torn down and destroyed, school officials said in a statement. Brookfield High Principal Marc Balanda sent an email on the same day to the schools staff and students titled, I am feeling dis- right now, and saying that hes disgusted and dismayed by the behavior. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A dispenser with menstrual products was installed in the boys bathroom near the (main office), Balanda said in the email. The installation was completed at 9:30 (a.m.). By 9:52 (a.m.), tampons were on the floor, the newly installed distribution box was ripped off the wall along with the masonry anchors, and the distribution box itself was destroyed. The law, which goes into effect Sept. 1, requires public schools serving students in grades 3 through 12 to install coin-free dispensers or otherwise provide free access to a selection of menstrual products in all womens restrooms, any all-gender restrooms (and) one mens restroom per school. In the email, Balanda said that while the law refers to a mens bathroom, the students acts of vandalism and destruction of property were the work of immature boys, not men. The school will reinstall the dispenser box in a boys bathroom, Balanda said in the email. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Students should not resort to vandalism when they dont understand something, he said. Instead, Balanda said, ask for more information. Use your words to start a dialogue rather than using your hands to destroy something. In this particular instance, if you have questions, please let me know. An open dialogue in the school community can help everyone understand the law, ensure a school environment where everyone is respected, and all students are supported, said Matthew Cerrone, director of communications at the state Department of Education. The reasoning behind the new law is that trans and intersex students can have access to sanitary products if they need them. Brookfield Schools Superintendent John Barile told Hearst Connecticut Media on Monday that the dispenser issue has since been addressed with the student, but declined to provide further details. He also declined to share whether multiple students involved in the incident, due to privacy reasons, and declined to give details on the disciplinary action. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Barile additionally said he didnt know why the dispenser was vandalized. He also said police werent involved in the incident. This is an issue of vandalism/destruction of property, he said. Law enforcement is typically not involved in situations of vandalism/destruction of property unless the act rises to a much higher level of property destruction. The school is seeking restitution. Barile continued: Brookfield High School is approaching this matter from a restorative perspective in that they are providing both education on the issue and work to remediate this issue with students. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In Balandas email, he said there have been other instances where students have vandalized bathrooms in the school, including breaking stall door hardware, soap dispensers ripped off walls, and various objects stuffed in toilets. Barile said menstrual dispensers have also been vandalized over the years in girls bathrooms. Balanda's email stated the school is continuing to discuss the best possible location for the all-gender bathroom. The message of the student or students who vandalized the dispenser was obscured by its delivery, Brookfield Board of Education Chair Wendy Youngblood said Tuesday, adding she was speaking on her own behalf and not for the board. She had been unaware of the incident prior to being contacted by Hearst. She said if the person who has damaged the dispenser wants to make a point about some aspect of life at school, this is not an effective way of doing it. Most importantly, it overruns the law and the rights of some people who need tampons. Advertisement Article continues below this ad If having menstrual products in a boys bathroom is confusing or unsettling, for some in the school community, there should be civil, open, constructive conversation, she added. Alex Harris, a Ridgefield resident on the advisory board at Ridgefield CT Pride , whose mission is to foster a sense of belonging in the LGBTQ+ community, told Hearst Connecticut Media the Brookfield High incident likely reflects socialized misogyny among teen boys as much as it does socialized anti-trans hostility in the community. Just as racism is socialized and not innate, so too for misogyny and anti-LGBTQIAA+ bigotry. All such feelings arise from socialized fear of 'otherness.' There is no reason for teen boys to fear period products the people who require them or the use of such products anywhere, Harris said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Pentagon spokesperson Patrick Ryder has stated that the US will continue to supply Ukraine with air defence weapons. Source: European Pravda, citing Pentagon press release Quote: "There are certain capabilities that were contracted under USAI, which does include some air defence capabilities." Details: When asked how long the US would continue to provide Ukraine with missiles for air defence, he refused to give a specific number. "We'll also continue to work very closely with allies and partners in terms of identifying Ukraine's needs and then working with them to help facilitate that process," Ryder stressed. In response to a clarifying question about whether US air defence missiles were still being supplied to Ukraine, he noted that it referred to "that and other capabilities" announced under the USAI programme. At the same time, Oksana Markarova, Ukraine's ambassador to the United States, noted that Kyiv was running out of military equipment, especially missiles and air defence interceptors. Background: Earlier, the US Senate adopted a procedural decision to further consider a bill to provide additional assistance to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan. The document was put to a procedural vote after the US Senate lacked sufficient support for a procedural vote on a bill to strengthen migration policy, which included additional funds for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan. Support UP or become our patron! An attorney whose job offer was rescinded by Phoenix, leading to the resignation of Phoenix's police accountability director, filed a lawsuit against the city on Wednesday. In September, Catherine Bowman was hired to be the lawyer for the Office of Accountability and Transparency by Roger Smith, the office's director. Three months later, over Smith's objection, the city revoked her offer, saying that her volunteer work with the Tucson Police Department in the 1980s violated a city law barring the police accountability office from hiring anyone previously employed by a police department. "I'm still passionate about police reform, and I would like the opportunity to do the job that I was selected for," Bowman said in an interview with The Arizona Republic. Bowman wants the court to say that the city law barring former police department employees from working for the Office of Accountability and Transparency does not apply to her volunteer work. Dan Wilson, Phoenix's communications director, declined to comment on the lawsuit. Her complaint claimed that though Phoenix touted the independence of the Office of Accountability and Transparency to the U.S. Department of Justice, which is investigating the Phoenix Police Department's use of force practices and other issues, the city choked that independence when the city attorney advised the city manager to back out of hiring her. The director of the Office of Accountability and Tranparency should have the authority to hire staff over the objection of the city manager's office, the complaint argued. Bowman also claimed that Phoenix didn't follow its hiring procedures and didn't allow her to appeal the revocation. The complaint asks the court to declare that she should be allowed to work for the Office of Accountability and Transparency and order the city to rehire her. Reach the reporter at miguel.torres@arizonarepublic.com. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Attorney sues after Phoenix police watchdog office job is rescinded SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) A project to install a public restroom in San Franciscos Noe Valley neighborhood was first announced in the fall of 2022. The initially reported $1.7 million cost of the project garnered some controversy. However, nearly a year and a half later, the project seems to be in full swing but with a significantly smaller price tag. In 2023, the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department said the cost to install the restroom has dropped to $300,000 thanks to contributions like the $425,000 gift from Public Restroom Company and Volumetric Building Companies. Photos of the public restroom have been released this week (see below). It is set to open in April at Noe Valley Town Square located at 3861 24th St. SF Muni bus involved in crash on Mission Street (San Francisco Recreation and Park Department) (San Francisco Recreation and Park Department) The city was also able to cut the projects cost from the aforementioned monetary donation, which will save another $491,000 in design, construction and other regulatory and design review costs, San Francisco officials said. With all the savings taken into account, the cost of the project will end up costing San Francisco $300,000. Timeline of the Project Planning : January-March 2023 Design : April-May 2023 Bid/Award : June/July 2023 Construction begins : February 2024 Open to the public: Spring 2024 Public Restroom Company is headquartered in Nevada. Volumetric Building Companies is headquartered in Pennsylvania but has an office in Tracy, CA. More information about the Noe Valley restroom public can be viewed on the San Francisco Recreation and Parks website. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. A man returned to his submerged Audi this afternoon to recover his crdit cards - Stephen Huntley/HVC/Stephen Huntley/HVC Severe flooding has left cars submerged in Essex, with torrential rain causing landslides and several lane closures. More than 400 flood alerts or warnings were in place across the UK on Friday morning, with dozens still in place as of Friday evening, mostly in the South and Midlands. Flash flooding in Essex left a number of vehicles stuck in muddy waters, with a man pictured attempting to recover his belongings from his submerged Audi TT.. In Herefordshire and Worcester, rain caused landslides, with police warning drivers not to take risks by driving into flood waters. The Audi TT and a taxi were left submerged - Stephen Huntley/HVC A lorry attempting to drive through the floodwaters - Stephen Huntley/HVC Automotive company RAC also issued a warning to drivers, urging them to take the utmost care when travelling. The clear message to drivers is never put yourself or your passengers at any risk as getting stranded in a flood can sometimes quickly escalate into a life-threatening situation. If you do reach a road covered in water and cant be certain how deep it is, turn around and find another route. Kingmaker Day, one of the most high-profile events at Warwick Racecourse was cancelled due to heavy rain. Clerk of the course Tom Ryall said The home straight is currently under water, and weve unfortunately had to abandon our Kingmaker Chase day tomorrow. We had 36mm (1.5 inches) of rain overnight... so theres not enough time for the rain to drain through the soil. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. HALF MOON BAY -- Authorities identified a 50-year-old Florida man who is suspected of stealing a small plane from Palo Alto Airport on Thursday, ditching it on a beach near Half Moon Bay and walking away. Luiz Gustavo Aires, of Miami, reportedly landed the plane just south of Poplar Beach about 5 p.m., the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office said. When deputies arrived, the plane was intact and unoccupied. On 2/8/2024 at approx. 5 pm, a small airplane landed on a beach in Half Moon Bay. The investigation revealed the plane had been stolen from a Palo Alto Airport and an arrest was made shortly after the plane landed on the beach. Click the link for further https://t.co/iwKdu6Zybw pic.twitter.com/nFTMN6f9Nz San Mateo County Sheriff's Office (@SMCSheriff) February 9, 2024 A short time later, a man matching Aires' description was taken into custody in Half Moon Bay. The sheriff's office is working with Palo Alto police on the theft and recovery of the plane. Aires was booked into the main jail in Redwood City on suspicion of theft of an airplane. As of 9 p.m. the plane was still on the beach. The incident comes just weeks after a deadly plane crash into Half Moon Bay last month. People reported a plane flying erratically over the water east of the Moss Beach Distillery that crashed into the ocean on January 15. The San Mateo County Coroner's Office identified one of the four people who were in the plane as 27-year-old Emma Pearl Willmer-Shiles of San Francisco a few days later. So far, three bodies have been recovered near the site of that crash. CBS News Bay Area's Dave Pehling contributed to this report Pharma exec won't commit to selling life-saving drug in U.S. for lower price offered in Canada Missing Marines found dead Biden issues fiery response to special counsel report that criticized his memory A convicted felon from Pittsburgh pleaded guilty to drug and firearms violations in federal court Thursday. The Department of Justice said Allen Gregory Edmonds, 35, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and one count of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. The Department of Justice said that on Dec. 19, 2023, officers executed federal search warrants on Edmonds, his car and properties associated with him. They found a backpack containing around two kilograms of cocaine in his living room and a loaded stolen handgun in his bedroom closet. Officials said Edmonds had been convicted of both felony drug trafficking and a felony firearm offense when the weapon and ammunition was found, so he was a convicted felon who was not allowed to possess a gun. Edmonds sentencing is scheduled for May 7. He faces a minimum of five years and a maximum of 40 years in jail, a fine of up to $5 million or both for the drug charges. He faces a maximum sentence of 15 years, a fine of $250,000 or both for the firearm charge. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW TRENDING NOW: National Pizza Day 2024: Deals and freebies on pies from Pizza Hut, Dominos, others Charges filed in deadly McCandless hit-and-run crash that killed 78-year-old man Gov. Shapiro aims to legalize recreational marijuana in Pennsylvania VIDEO: Thieves stole batteries from multiple Butler County school buses, police say DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts William Bright, Wayne Reichle, and Stefan Axelsson have a lot in common. They live in Southern New Jersey and run commercial fishing operations whose catch includes Atlantic herring, silvery little bottom-dwellers that feed on krill and fish larvae. They are plaintiffs in a Supreme Court case that could soon kneecap federal agencies ability to write and enforce regulations. And for the past few years, theyve had a common adversary: offshore wind developers. Plaintiffs in one of the most closely watched cases this term participated in efforts to block two major renewables projects off the coast of New Jersey, Ocean Wind 1 and 2. The campaign against Ocean Wind 1 and 2 was aided by a network of conservative groups and corporate backers, who rejoiced when Danish energy firm rsted canceled both projects in November. Now, when the Supreme Court rules on Chevron this spring, these groups may have a much bigger win to celebrate. Bright, Reichle, and Axelssons case, Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo, as well as a companion case before the court called Relentless, Inc. v. Department of Commerce, ostensibly challenges a requirement that fishing boat owners pay for the federal observers who ensure companies arent overfishing. The government abandoned that requirement last year and reimbursed fisherman who had paid observer fees. The Supreme Court took these two cases anyway, so as to rule on a much broader question: whether to overturn a long-standing legal precedent known as the Chevron deference, wherein courts defer to the expertise of federal agencies to interpret congressional statutes. If they succeed in killing Chevron, this will be a massive victory for corporations looking to evade regulation. So who are the plaintiffs in the Loper Bright case? Loper Bright Enterprises is run by William Bright, who also owns a well-reviewed seasonal Jersey Shore restaurant called Hooked Up Seafood. Loper Bright Enterprises is listed as permanently closed on Google Maps, though a representative for the plaintiffs disputed the status and said it was actively engaged in herring fishing operations. H&L Axelsson is a commercial fishing operation run by the Axelsson family, which owns the F/V (fishing vessel) Dyrsten. Wayne Reichle is the president and owner of Lunds Fisheries, a vertically integrated seafood company with both boats and processing facilities that operates on the East and West Coast. Lunds co-owner and chairman of the board, Jeff ReichleWaynes fatheralso runs Scombrus One LLC, another plaintiff. Multiple attempts to reach all of the above were unsuccessful. The group is being represented pro bono by lawyers at the Cause of Action Institute, as well as by Paul Clement, a former U.S. solicitor general and conservative legal activist. Ryan Mulveypart of the plaintiffs legal teamserves as both counsel for Cause of Action Institute and policy counsel for the Americans for Prosperity Foundation, the education and research arm of the Koch brothersbacked lobby group Americans for Prosperity. Two other attorneys representing the plaintiffs, Eric Bolinder and James Valvo, who serve as counsel and executive director, respectively, at the Cause of Action Institute, also work for the Americans for Prosperity Foundation. According to the foundations most recently published Form 990 tax filing, it granted $200,000 to the Cause of Action Institute in 2022. Over email, Mulvey said that Cause of Action Institute attorneys first came into contact with the Loper Bright plaintiffs at regional Fishery Management Council meetings and through mutual contacts in the commercial fishing community before offering their services in 2019. We approached the plaintiffs to help them challenge the onerous and unfair requirement that herring fishermen cover the cost of monitors aboard their boats, Mulvey wrote. Asked how this particular group of plaintiffs came together, he described them as fishermen based in Cape May, NJ whose families have been fishing together for decades. The Loper Bright plaintiffs have been involved in a number of issues related to fishing regulations. Since at least 2018, that advocacy has included a focus on offshore wind development. Stefan Axelsson and Wayne and Jeff Reichle are two of many signatories on a 2018 letter addressed to Walter Cruickshank, at the time acting director of the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, or BOEM. The letter raised concerns about the immense risks posed by poorly-planned offshore wind energy development, which could damage our fisheries, the ocean habitat more generally, and our way of life. In 2021, Jeff and Wayne Reichle were interviewed by a local newspaper while attending a protest against wind farm developments off the coast of southern New Jersey. Our issue is they havent reached out to the fishing industry, Jeff Reichle told OCNJ Daily, seemingly referring to the state and the companies developing the project. Wayne Reichle argued that there is no proof that the wind farm will have a positive impact on fishing, only negative. Wayne Reichle also appeared to attend a critical hearing on offshore wind hosted last year by New Jersey Congressman Jeff Van Drew, according to a post on Reichles LinkedIn page. He also spoke at a 100-person beachfront demonstration against offshore wind development last October, focused on wind developments dubiously documented impact on whale populations. As researchers at Brown Universitys Climate and Development Lab illustrated in a recent study on East Coast antioffshore wind advocacy, right-wing groupsoften funded by fossil fuel interestsfrequently offer material support to these typically grassroots opposition movements. Polluter-backed think tanks such as the Caesar Rodney Institute have offered legal support, personnel, talking points, and financial resources to local groups fighting renewable energy projects. The right-wing legal movement has also been eager to take on cases brought by such groups; the board of commissioners for Cape May County, where several Loper Bright plaintiffs live, hired longtime anti-regulatory crusaders Nancie Marzulla and Roger Marzulla Jr. to challenge wind developments there. Isaac Slevina co-author of the reportcautioned against seeing offshore wind activism as a purely astroturfed project. Rather, he said, participants have been eager to seek out and accept support from groups willing to offer it. Right-wing groups have also aided other plaintiffs in cases challenging Chevron in their opposition to offshore wind. For instance: Meghan Lapp, fisheries liaison for the Rhode Islandbased company Seafreeze Ltd., a plaintiff in the Relentless companion case to Loper Bright, told Reuters in 2021 that she sought legal assistance from the Texas Public Policy Project. The Texas Public Policy Project is known for helping spearhead a nationwide campaign against environmental, social, and governance, or ESG, investment principles, and has provided no-cost legal representation to offshore wind critics in New England as well as a high-production-value video outlining its case against wind energy. The Relentless case plaintiffs are being represented by the New Civil Liberties Alliance, a nonprofit law firm. The NCLA is also a partner organization of the State Policy Network, whose members and affiliates include several groups that support anti-wind advocacy. Neither Lapp nor the NCLA responded to multiple requests for comment as to how NCLA came to take up the case. Several boats owned by Reichle and Brightas detailed in a website dedicated to the caseare on the Responsible Offshore Development Alliances member list. Other RODA members, which can be companies, business associations, and individual vessels enlisted by their owners, include F/V Relentless and plaintiffs in the case the Texas Public Policy Project brought against Vineyard Wind. Lapp serves on RODAs board of directors alongside Lunds Fisheries Greg Didomenico, the companys fisheries management specialist. A 2020 letter publicized on the Lunds Fisheries website calls for a five-year moratorium on offshore wind development pending the satisfaction of a long list of industry demands; Axelsson, Bright, and Jeff and Wayne Reichle are among its extensive list of signatories. A post on the Lunds Fisheries website about the petition includes a now-defunct link to a sign-on form on RODAs website. The Cause of Action Institutewhose lawyers are representing the Loper Bright plaintiffs pro bono and also work for the Americans for Prosperity Foundationhasnt been involved in antioffshore wind efforts, Mulvey said. The group first worked on commercial fishing issues when it represented plaintiffs in the case Goethel v. Department of Commerce, which also dealt with commercial fishermen covering the cost of NOAA observers. Americans for Prosperity, however, has long battled wind energy development. Like the NCLA, Americans for Prosperity is also a State Policy Network partner. Several network affiliate groups are members of the American Coalition for Ocean Protection. Also involved in that formation is Protect Our Coast NJ, which has helped to coordinate protests and legal action against Jersey Shore wind developments. Americans for Prosperity is a donor, as well, to the Republican State Leadership Committee. Last July, the RSLChaving received donations from a number of fossil fuel interestsannounced its launch of two five-figure ad buys on the effect of offshore wind projects that are putting the lives of whales in danger; the very same whales that have been washing up on New Jersey beaches. The point of tracing all these links isnt to suggest that the plaintiffs in Loper Bright and Relentless are sleeper agents hell-bent on destroying the administrative state. There are many perfectly legitimate reasons why individuals in the fishing industry might be active in more than one seemingly reactionary cause, donate to Republican candidates, or oppose policies that affect their business. Rather, the web of connections between antioffshore wind groups and those challenging Chevron highlights the rights expansive ecosystem of lawyers, think tanks, and funders and how this ecosystem generates opportunities for key legal battles like the one now playing out in the Supreme Court. The right has used its essentially unlimited fountain of corporate funds to cast a very, very wide net over the last several decades. And given the ubiquity of fossil fuel funding in these networks, backing efforts to fight renewable energy development is almost a no-brainer. If the Supreme Court overturns the Chevron doctrine as expected, that net will have brought in one of its most lucrative catches yet. Anthony Magro, 33, of Bridgeport Connecticut State Police/Contributed GOSHEN State police say a Bridgeport man stalked a local woman by hiding an Apple AirTag on her vehicle. Anthony Magro, 33, is charged with electronic stalking. Connecticut State Police said Magro was taken into custody in West Haven Wednesday and transported to Troop B in North Canaan, where an arrest warrant was served. The victim told police she did not know Magro, nor had she had any "known interactions" with him. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Magro was charged under the state's electronic stalking law, which was amended by lawmakers a few years ago from a misdemeanor to a felony. Advocates have warned that AirTags, which sell for about $20-25, can make it easier for domestic abusers to monitor their victims' whereabouts. Authorities also have reported instances of thieves apparently tracking cars with the devices in order to steal them. The devices track their location based off of the Apple devices around them. In response to criticism that the devices enabled stalking, Apple implemented a warning system that lets users know when an AirTag in their vicinity is monitoring their location. Those warnings were what alerted the victim in the Goshen case that her movements were being watched, according to state police. The agency said troopers out of North Canaan were contacted by the woman on March 27 last year after she'd found the AirTag on her car. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The woman told the trooper investigating that she'd been alerted by her phone that an AirTag was "moving with her" back in February. But she had assumed the notice was because a relative had left their AirPods in her car. The woman drove her car only infrequently after that, until she received a new notification on March 24 about an AirTag moving with her while she was driving. The woman told police she and a relative then spent two hours searching her car before they found the device. The AirTag "was found attached to the inside of her vehicles drivers side front wheel rim with an adhesive substance," state police said in a news release Thursday. The woman removed the device and put it in a plastic bag, and called police. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "The complainant further explained to the investigating Trooper that these events had caused her to fear for her personal safety and that of her family members," state police said. State police seized the AirTag as evidence and obtained a search warrant for the device's subscriber information. The device's serial number was associated with Magro, whose last address was in Torrington, state police said. "The complainant indicated to the investigating Trooper that she was not familiar with and had no known interactions with Anthony Magro," the agency said." State police made contact with Magro in May, who told them he was living in Bridgeport. Advertisement Article continues below this ad State police said they tried to contact Magro repeatedly to set up a time to meet, but were unable to make contact with him again. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) The Las Vegas Raiders player arrested for allegedly driving drunk is accused of hitting a woman with his car in a resort valet, documents said. Las Vegas Metro police arrested Janarius Robinson, 24, on a DUI charge early Tuesday morning. Around 7 a.m., police were called to the Aria Resort & Casino for a report of a woman who was hit by a car and who then became pinned between two cars, police said. The cars driver, whom police identified as Robinson, smelled of alcohol and appeared intoxicated, officers said, noting his speech was mumbled and his body was slightly swaying side to side. Robinson told police he had two drinks starting at 10 p.m. and was not under the influence of any other substance, officers said. In documents 8 News Now obtained, the officer noted Robinson told him he stopped drinking at 11 p.m., nearly seven hours before the collision occurred at 5:45 a.m. Robinson also told police he was headed to the Vdara, which is located next to the Aria. A passenger in Robinsons car declined to provide a statement to police, they said. Robinson played in a total of six games as defensive end for the Las Vegas Raiders in 2023. The Florida State alum started three games for the Raiders, with one sack. A judge released Robinson on his own recognizance due to the misdemeanor charge. He was expected in court for a status check on June 4, records indicated. The victims injuries were not noted in the report as police said she left the valet area before officers arrived. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) Nashville detectives are asking for the publics help in identifying a man who allegedly tried to rape a woman while she was walking home last Saturday morning. The 30-year-old woman was walking near the 400 block of 11th Avenue North around 1:45 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 3 when the Metro Nashville Police Department said a man grabbed her from behind and knocked her to the ground. Man sought for trying to rape woman who was running on Cumberland River Greenway The man allegedly tried to remove her clothing, but she screamed and fought back. When a witness began yelling from a parking garage across the street, officials said the suspect walked off. The incident was reported only about one day before authorities said another man tried to rape a woman while she was running on the Cumberland River Greenway. (Courtesy: MNPD) (Courtesy: MNPD) The suspect in Saturdays incident is described as a white man with short blonde hair. He was reportedly wearing a flannel shirt and blue jeans at the time of the incident. CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime news from Middle Tennessee Anyone who recognizes him is asked to contact Nashville Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. Carbone's Market, which has been in business for over 75 years in Torrington, is closing this week. A customer chats with the market's former owner, Tony Renzullo, who helped owners Heath and Alice Leonard and their staff on Wednesday, Nov. 1. Emily M. Olson TORRINGTON Customers lined up Wednesday morning to say goodbye to the owners of Carbone's Market on Oak Avenue, which is closing this weekend after 75 years in the city. The market closed for good late Thursday afternoon, according to patrons who stopped by to say goodbye. Carbone's Market owner Heath Leonard, left, rings up an order for a customer, one of the many who waited in line for one last purchase and to say goodbye. Emily M. Olson Carbone's Market, which has been in business for over 75 years in Torrington, is closing this week. Customers lined up to place an order and say goodbye on Wednesday, Nov. 1. Emily M. Olson Carbone's Market, which has been in business for over 75 years in Torrington, is closing this week. Customers lined up to place an order and say goodbye on Wednesday, Nov. 1. Emily M. Olson Carbone's Market, which has been in business for over 75 years in Torrington, is closing this week. Customers lined up to place an order and say goodbye on Wednesday, Nov. 1. Emily M. Olson Carbone's Market, which has been in business for over 75 years in Torrington, is closing this week. Customers lined up to place an order and say goodbye on Wednesday, Nov. 1. Emily M. Olson Carbone's Market, which has been in business for over 75 years in Torrington, is closing this week. Customers lined up to place an order and say goodbye on Wednesday, Nov. 1. Emily M. Olson Carbone's Market, which has been in business for over 75 years in Torrington, is closing this week. Customers lined up to place an order and say goodbye on Wednesday, Nov. 1. Emily M. Olson Tony Renzullo slices meat behind the counter at Carbone's Market, which operated for over 75 years in Torrington and is closing this week. Emily M. Olson Devon Levesque of New Hartford was there Wednesday for the first time and said he'd heard about the market's legendary grinders. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "I always wanted to come here, and I thought I'd better do it now," he said. "People have always raved about Carbone's. I'm getting an Italian combo and a meatball grinder." Kyle Vaill wanted a roast beef grinder "with the works," he said. "It's so sad that they're closing," he said, and others standing around him nodded their heads in agreement. "It's like losing a loved one." Jim Nivolo, a longtime Torrington resident, was waiting in line for his own roast beef grinder. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "I remember back in the old days, Al Carbone had the cash register in the corner," he said, looking around the small store. "It's a tradition here in Torrington. It's a real shame. "I remember Tony Renzullo when he was a young boy, working here with Al," Nivilo said. Jordan Murphy was at the market to buy a sandwich for his pregnant wife. "She said, 'I need a turkey grinder,' and I knew I had to get over here," Murphy said. "This place has great food. It's a shame." Carbone's Market, which has been in business for over 75 years in Torrington, is closing this week. Customers lined up to place an order and say goodbye on Wednesday, Nov. 1. Emily M. Olson The market's grinders are something of a legend in Torrington. The bread and rolls come from a supplier in Waterbury, and the sandwiches are overstuffed with meats, cheeses and toppings. Carbone's corned beef grinders, sold on St. Patrick's Day, were always a popular item, and groups of employees at offices around Torrington placed their orders well in advance of the holiday to be sure they didn't miss out. Advertisement Article continues below this ad There was also Carbone's hot and spicy chili, soups and daily entrees. The store always stocked a small line of groceries, drinks and snacks, making it easy to take a night off from cooking. The market, according to the former owner, Tony Renzullo, was first opened by Neil Servillo "in the Depression days" in the Oak Avenue neighborhood, in a small brick building on the corner with a simple sign above the door. Alphonse and Nellie Carbone purchased it from Servillo in 1945; Servillo was Alphonse's uncle. It was one of a number of neighborhood markets around Torrington owned by local families. Then in 1972, Renzullo, the Carbones' great-nephew, bought the business and kept the Carbone's tradition going, until he sold it to Heath and Alice Leonard, six years ago. Advertisement Article continues below this ad On Wednesday, Renzullo joined the Leonards and other staff members slicing meat, taking orders, and saying goodbye to the market's faithful customers. The Leonards announced the closing on their Facebook page and the community immediately responded with memories and well wishes to the Leonards, Renzullo and the Carbone family. "It is with great sadness that we have to let you all know that we will be closing the doors to Carbone's Market," the Leonards wrote. "This was not an easy decision to make. We are incredibly sad to put this out to the public." The comments were all the same: Everyone is sad to see the market go. "My husband and I have a crew at Sikorsky Aircraft that love your sandwiches. We usually bring them for lunch a couple times a year. Those guys are going to be bummed (as we are)," wrote Heather Dorosh. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "Such sad news. You were the first place my husband and I went to when we moved up here 7 years ago," wrote Lori Verespie Faustine. "So glad we came up to Connecticut from Florida last week and stopped in for one of your grinders," Kathy Fusco Thrall wrote. "My husband and I lived down the street when we were first married and had Carbones grinders for dinner every Thursday ... That was 50 years ago." Renzullo, who ran the market with co-workers and his late wife, Carol, enjoyed the years he owned the business. "It's very difficult to see the market go. It was always good for us," he said. "My wife and I and our employees we called them family we all worked together. Our customers were from Torrington and the surrounding towns, and people who used to live here, would drive two or three hours to come up on a Saturday or a Sunday for a sandwich." Advertisement Article continues below this ad He said he knew 95 percent of the people who waited in line Wednesday. "One of our very first customers drove down from Massachusetts this morning; I think he was here around 8 a.m.," he said. "He wanted to get some grinders." MANASSAS, Va. (DC News Now) A man who was intoxicated was arrested after he resisted arrest and hit a police officer with a stolen magazine. The Prince William County Police Department said on Feb. 7, around 11 a.m., officers responded to the 8200 block of Falls Grove Dr. for a report of a man who was intoxicated. Burning candle caused Dumfries house fire, fire marshal says There, officers found the man, Gustavo Rosales, 24, who was determined to be intoxicated. Rosales gave officers false identifying information before trying to run away from them. He was quickly detained but continued to resist arrest, refusing to listen to the officers commands. Rosales then stole a magazine from a nearby stand and began to hit the officer, causing him to fall on the ground and hit his head. Additional police officers came to the scene and took Rosales into custody without any more incidents. That officer and Rosales were taken to a hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. Rosales was also found to have drugs in his possession. He was charged with malicious wounding of a law enforcement officer, assault and battery of a law enforcement officer, obstruction of justice, possession of schedule I/II drugs, petit larceny and intoxicated in public. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. A police pursuit of a stolen vehicle turned violent when the driver struck an officer and trapped him on the hood of the car, Ohio authorities said. On Wednesday, Feb. 7, Columbus police located a Toyota Camry that was reported stolen driving erratically in a shopping center parking lot, according to the Columbus Division of Police. The driver, 32-year-old Holly Graham, put the car in reverse before abruptly driving forward, striking a police sergeant standing outside of his vehicle, according to authorities. The vehicle continued driving through the parking lot with the sergeant on the hood of the vehicle, police said. While still on the hood of the vehicle, the sergeant discharged their firearm several times, striking the driver, police said. I see the cop flying up in the air, then, next thing I know, you just hear pop pop pop pop, Sirena Goines, who witnessed the shooting, told Columbus WSYX. Graham was able to exit the parking lot, shaking the officer from the hood of the car, officials said. While approaching the on-ramp to Interstate 71 North, Graham struck two vehicles head on, at which time officers took her into custody, according to police. Graham, the only person in the car, was brought to a hospital in serious condition as of Feb. 7, police said. The sergeant was also brought to the hospital and, as of Feb. 7, was in stable condition, according to authorities. Graham is charged with felonious assault, police said. In accordance with Marsys Law, the Columbus Division of Police did not identify the sergeant involved. The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation is investigating the police-involved shooting by the Columbus Division of Police 1 deputy killed, 1 wounded by armed and dangerous driver still at large, TN cops say Grandpa chases after stolen car with baby inside, then the vehicle crashes, cops say Chick-fil-A parking lot dispute ends with man shot in the head, Minnesota cops say New York City police are searching for an armed shoplifter who allegedly opened fire inside a Times Square store, shot a customer and later fired at officers during a police chase along busy Manhattan streets. The first shooting took place just after 7 p.m. Thursday at JD Sports at 42nd Street and Broadway after three people allegedly shoplifted from the business, the New York Police Department told USA TODAY Friday morning. During a press conference Thursday night, NYPD Chief of Patrol John Chell told reporters the melee began when a security guard stopped the suspected shoplifters at the store's front door, asked them for their receipt, took a shopping bag from them and began questioning them. Deputy killed in Tennessee 2 deputies shot, 1 killed at traffic stop in Blount County, manhunt underway Innocent bystander struck by gunfire Inside the store, one of the reported shoplifters allegedly pulled out a gun and fired at the security guard, but missed. The gunfire struck a 38-year-old female customer in the leg, police said, and the three suspects allegedly took off running. New York Police Department officials speak during a press conference on Feb. 8, 2024 after a customer was shot inside a business. Arriving officers located the wounded customer and transported her in stable condition to a hospital, police told USA TODAY. The woman, a tourist, was expected to recover, the Associated Press reported. Multiple shots fired along busy Midtown streets Officers on routine patrol quickly apprehended one of the suspects, Chell said, but another suspect the gunman ran and fired two shots at a pursing officer. Chell said the gunfire missed the officer. Although the officer drew his weapon, Chell said, he did not fire at the suspect because too many people were in the area. The suspect then continued to run, and again fired a shot at the same officer, who did not return fire due to multiple people in the area. No civilians were struck by the suspect's gunfire. The New York Police Department is asking the public for help identifying this suspect they say shot a person inside a Times Square business on Feb. 4, 2023, then opened fire on police along busy Midtown streets. The suspect then ran down into the subway, jumped onto the tracks, and ran back out of the subway before disappearing, Chell said. Police search for gunman; one suspect in custody for questioning Police described the gunman who fired at the officer as a Hispanic male between the ages of 15 and 20, wearing white pants, a white T-shirt, a white jacket and white shoes. The gunman, Chell said, shed his jacket, a hat and his shoes as he fled. The suspect apprehended by officers was taken to a police station for questioning, Chell said. Meanwhile, police said, the third shoplifting suspect remained at large Friday. As of Friday morning, police told USA TODAY no arrest had been made in the case and it remained under investigation. 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: NYC Times Square shooting: Bystander shot in store; manhunt underway 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 announced these drugs, cash and a gun were seized in Athens after an investigation. The arrests of six people in Georgia and South Carolina on trafficking in methamphetamine charges was announced Friday by Athens-Clarke police. The Northeast Georgia Regional Drug Task Force worked the drug investigation with the cooperation with six other law enforcement agencies including the Aiken County Sheriffs Office in South Carolina. The investigation was described as lengthy. In Athens, search warrants were served at a home in Hallmark Mobile Home Park on Spring Valley Road and another at Pinewood Estates North trailer park off U.S. Highway 29. Drugs: Automatic weapons, fentanyl seized after gunfire alerts police During the investigation, police said officers seized 39 kilograms of meth with a street value estimated at more than $340,000. Also, seized were a Springfield Armory 9mm pistol and about $32,000 cash. The suspects were identified as men from Dillon and Eastover in South Carolina and Loganville, Monroe and Athens in Georgia. No other details were released about the investigation. This article originally appeared on Athens Banner-Herald: Meth, cash seized in Athens by police in 2-state drug investigation Shahed drone. Photo: screenshot from the video published by National Police A nearly intact Shahed drone has been discovered recently in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. Source: Ukraines Ministry of Internal Affairs; National Police in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast Details: The drone was found by bomb disposal experts in a wasteland near a village in the Synelnykove district. Bomb disposal experts said that they were very lucky to have an intact example of an attack drone for research. Quote: "The warhead failed to explode and all components are there. The next stage is to carefully remove and destroy the warhead. The UAV itself will be disassembled and examined by experts." Support UP or become our patron! The Torrington Police Department. / Hearst Connecticut Media file photo The Torrington Police Department received approval from the City Council for a new employment contract that offers higher wages, lateral transfers from other towns, and a pension. The department, funded annually for 90 officers, has 12 vacancies. Contributed Photo / Torrington Police Department TORRINGTON With intention to hire and keep more police officers, the City Council approved a new three-year police contract that includes a 17 percent increase in wages. Carbone said the city looked at employment contracts at other departments around the state and Torrington was "the bottom two or three" for salaries, compared to other towns and cities. Torrington's department has 69 sworn officers, but it's budgeted for 81, according to Torrington Police Chief William Baldwin. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Having a more competitive package to offer could help with that though, Carbone said. "This contract puts us more in the middle ... We're (still) not offering the top pay," Carbone said. "As a distressed municipality, I appreciate the men and women (in the police department) who recognize the challenges we face." Council members said they would like Torrington to be higher among the salary comparisons. "I'd like to see us even above the middle, in terms of our salaries," said Councilwoman Anne Ruwet. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Members of the police department receive medical benefits, paid holidays, sick time and vacation pay. A pension plan was eliminated in 2015 for any new employees, and replaced with a 401A retirement savings plan, where employees contribute, and the city matches 8 percent. "The thing is, it's hard for a young person starting off in a law enforcement career to maximize what the 401A offers," Baldwin said, adding they have bills and families and can't maximize their contributions. "There's been a lot of talk about bringing a pension back, and I know there are several police departments that changed to a 401A, and they're going back to a pension to help with recruitment," Baldwin said. The new agreement is between the city and the police union, Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 52. The department's former union was AFSCME AFL-CIO local 442; Torrington changed its membership in 2021. Advertisement Article continues below this ad According to talent.com, the average police officer salary in Connecticut is $72,959 per year, or $35.08 per hour. Entry level positions start at $60,962 per year, while most experienced officers make up to $79,825 per year. According to the contract, the hourly wage for a patrol officer on probation for the first year, is increasing from $36 an hour to $39 by 2025, with a rising pay scale for upper-level officers. For example, a detective's hourly wage that is currently $44.43 an hour, will increase to $47.60 by 2025; and the pay for a sergeant, now $47.42 an hour, will increase to $50.80 by 2025. The contract can be read online on the City Council's Feb. 5 agenda Deputy Chief Bart Barown said the department is also inviting officers above entry level to apply. "As part of our application process, we offer lateral transfers," he said. "We're already accepting them." Advertisement Article continues below this ad Finding candidates who are willing to move to the Torrington area, or commute daily, is also a challenge, Baldwin said. "Torrington is unique because of its location, so makes it difficult to keep officers," he said. "There's also lots of competition among departments for recruitment right now." He said they "aggressively advertise" for lateral transfers, but the new officers have to have some kind of incentive, especially those applying from the center or southern part of the state. "This isn't going to fix our problems; officers are still going to leave," he said. "But this gives us more of an advantage. The council approved the contract, and it was very much needed; I so appreciate their support." A new Buc-ees location is set to open in Smiths Grove this summer, and you can apply now to open positions paying up to $150,000 per year. Were really looking forward to getting that second location in Kentucky up and going, Buc-ees operations director Josh Smith told the Herald-Leader recently. The construction timeline may change and depends on weather and potential delays, Smith said, but Buc-ees officials hope to open in the mid-summer. The ground breaking took place June 5, the Herald-Leader previously reported. The location will have a 53,000-square-foot store, 120 gas pumps and approximately 445 parking spaces, Smith said. Buc-ees stores are known for their barbecue, gas prices and clean restrooms. The first Buc-ees location in Kentucky opened in Richmond in April 2022. The Smiths Grove Buc-ees site will also have a historical touch in the form of an old barn that will stay on the property for visitors to explore. Its got some unique character, Smith said. Buc-ees staff are constantly scouting for new potential store locations, the official noted. Were always looking to expand our footprint, especially in Kentucky, Smith continued. The Smiths Grove location will have somewhere between 200 and 250 full-time employees, as well as a few part-time workers. Heres what to know about applying. Working at Buc-ees Buc-ees officials will hire for positions like cashiers, food service workers, warehouse and maintenance employees and gift associates. Base pay starts at $18 an hour for employees in the cashier, gift department, warehouse and maintenance departments, Smith said. The wage for food service workers is $21 per hour. Job listings for managerial positions, including assistant deli/food service manager, assistant general manager, deli/food service manager, grocery manager, janitorial/cleaning and maintenance manager and night manager have been posted online for the Smiths Grove location. Heres what the managerial positions pay, according to the Buc-ees website: $33 per hour for the assistant deli/food service manager $100,000 per year for assistant general manager $150,000 per year for deli/food service manager $31 per hour for grocery manager $25 per hour for janitorial/cleaning and maintenance manager $31 per hour for night manager How big was the Richmond Buc-ees opening? City manager has been 3 times for beef jerky Buc-ees officials will hold a mass hiring event at a conference center in the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green sometime before the store opens, potentially in May, Smith said, though the date will depend on construction progress. Prior to the event, applicants will be phone screened. A background in food service would be beneficial for that department, Smith said, but prior experience is not required for the nonmanagerial roles. What were really looking for is someone thats willing to work hard, show up to work on time and just be adaptable and take training on and become a great employee, Smith said. Well train you to do whatever it is that we offer you position-wise, we just want the people to have the fire in the belly and the drive to do good. You can apply online to work at Buc-ees for the Smiths Grove location and other stores. Do you have a question about employment in Kentucky for our service journalism team? Wed like to hear from you. Fill out our Know Your Kentucky form or email ask@herald-leader.com. Liberty High School students Carter Ashton, 17, Lydia Rhodes, 17, and Ava Synder, 18, show support for transgender students outside the Peoria Unified School District's governing board meeting to decide whether to draft an anti-trans bathroom policy on Thursday, April 27. In an election year, politicians will do anything to stir up the party faithful. So, while Republicans on the national level thwart efforts to solve the border crisis so they can campaign on there being a border crisis, Republicans at the Arizona Legislature are attacking children. Particularly transgender children, although for most of MAGA, an assault on any member of the LGBTQ community will do. Last year, the Republicans who control the Arizona Legislature passed a number of bills aimed at transgender students. They died on the desk of Gov. Katie Hobbs, who said, correctly, that she would veto anything that aims to attack and harm children. This attack could go directly to voters The legislative bullies are back at it again, however, this time not only introducing bills (that will be vetoed), but also aiming to use the GOP majority to pass Senate Concurrent Resolution 1013, which would bypass the governor and take their prejudices directly to voters. Those who push these cruel, unnecessary measures will tell you their goal is to protect students, including transgender students. No. It is the kind of legislation thats meant to convince gullible voters that they (or their children) have something to fear from transgender students. It is meant to appease the most prejudiced members of the Republican base in a way that will only create more trouble for kids who already are vulnerable to attacks and susceptible to the mental anguish brought on by bullying and alienation. Legislation demonizes transgender students In a better world lawmakers would come together in a transactional way to humanely address some peoples concerns about young people with varying gender identities. But we dont live in that world. Last year's 'bathroom bill': Was filled with transparent BS Senate Concurrent Resolution 1013 says things like a school must notify parents when staff members use a transgender students self-designated name and pronouns, and would require the school to first get parental permission. It also says staff members dont have to use those pronouns if it is against their religious or moral convictions. And there is inflammatory language about showers, locker rooms, bathrooms and rooms on overnight trips that seems less about protecting children than frightening parents into thinking they and their children have something to fear. Pronouns of lawmakers would be ruth/less Its a shame, but not unusual. Over time Ive found that when there is language like religious or moral convictions in a piece of legislation, it almost always was put there by individuals who have neither for individuals who have neither. The resolution moved forward on a party-line vote. Democratic Sen. Christine Marsh, a teacher, said, This will become a debate on a statewide level, harming God knows how many kids and forcing them into further isolation and harassment and bullying. I think that the effect of that will be incalculable. In todays vernacular, the preferred pronouns for the people behind these measures are ruth/less. Reach Montini at ed.montini@arizonarepublic.com. For more opinions content, please subscribe This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Transgender students are the target (again) of Arizona lawmakers A pregnant woman was shot and killed during an ambush in Colorado, and two people accused in her death are being sought, officials said. In February 2023, Melanie Massay, 22, was fatally shot in Lakewood during an attack that involved a group of seven, the Lakewood Police Department said in a news release. She was already a mother of one and pregnant at the time, police said. Her unborn child didnt survive the attack. Police couldnt specify the reason behind the attack because the investigation remains ongoing, John Romero, public information officer with Lakewood police, told McClatchy News in an email. Massay, described by her family as cute but bossy, was raised with her three siblings and loved making others laugh, according to her obituary. In January, Lakewood officers issued a warrant for the group and charged them with murder, officials said. Monte Hayes, ReaAsia Hollins, Trinity Walker, DaJanah Abrams and Jrayla Taylor were arrested and booked into the Jefferson County Jail, police said. Isaac Pierrie and Jaliyah Burks are on the run as of Feb. 9, police said, and are considered armed and dangerous. Police ask anyone with information about their whereabouts to call the Lakewood Police Department. Anyone with information is eligible for a reward up to $2,000, police said. Lakewood is about 10 miles southwest of downtown Denver. 17-year-old shoots mother and father, then walks into sheriffs office, Texas cops say 17-year-old fatally shot man over Louis Vuitton fanny pack, Colorado officials say Group joked over text about shooting that left 16-year-old dead, New Mexico cops say A family member shows a phone photo of Juana Guadalupe Recinos, who was detained last year during the government's crackdown on its war against drugs, in Santa Ana, El Salvador, Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2024. Police detained Recinos on a charge of illegal gathering as she walked to work leaving her two sons motherless for more than a year. (AP Photo/Salvador Melendez) SANTA ANA, El Salvador (AP) Tears welled in Alex's eyes and he pressed his head into his hands as he thought about more than a year of birthdays and holidays without his mother, who was swept up by El Salvador's police as she walked to work in a clothing factory. I feel very alone, the 10-year-old said last month as he sat next to his 8-year-old brother and their grandmother. Im scared, feeling like they could come and they could take away someone else in my family. Forty thousand children have seen one parent or both detained in President Nayib Bukeles nearly two-year war on El Salvadors gangs, according to the national social services agency. The records were shared with The Associated Press by an official with the National Council on Children and Adolescents, who insisted on anonymity due to fear of government reprisal against those violating its tight control of information. The official said many more children have jailed parents but are not in the records. By arresting more than 1% of his country's population, Bukele, who won reelection to a second five-year term Sunday, is trying to break the chain of violence that has ravaged El Salvador for decades. But many worry that debilitating poverty, long-term trauma and government failures to protect their children could instead fuel a future wave of gang warfare. Kids arent spared when their dad, brother or mom is detained, they carry this trauma with them, Nancy Fajardo, a lawyer and aid provider working with 150 such families. They feel as if the president has robbed them of their family. It could push the kids to later join a gang as a form of vengeance for everything theyre suffering. Single mother Juana Guadalupe Recinos Ventura raised her boys in a small concrete house in an area coated by Barrio 18 gang graffiti. The family was never rich, but they were able to scrape by. When she was detained outside their home in June 2022 on vague charges of illegal gathering, the boy's grandmother, Maria Concepcion Ventura, was left struggling to feed Alex and his brother and pay the bills without her daughter's salary. The $75 packages of food and clothes the family sends once a month dealt the family another financial blow at a time that poverty has soared in El Salvador. And that's made the kids even more vulnerable in the long term. They would cry and cry, and still cry when they remember her, Ventura said. Theyd just ask me, When is mom coming back? When is my mom coming back? And you just have to tell them you dont know when the government will let her go. The AP spoke to Alex after being told he wanted to speak about his mother, and with consent of his grandmother Ventura. Concerns were echoed by social workers, relatives, religious leaders and even Salvadoran Vice President Felix Ulloa, who said in an interview that, if the state doesnt do something, these kids will become the criminals of the future. Alex's home in the western city of Santa Ana is like much of the Central American nation: Two gangs once divided its territory. El Salvadors Mara Salvatrucha and Barrio 18 gangs originated from marginalized migrant communities in Los Angeles in the 1980s, made up in part of vulnerable unaccompanied minors fleeing Central Americas military conflicts. Once deported from the United States, the gangs began to prey upon youth in precarious situations in their own communities in El Salvador, eventually driving new waves of emigration as families fled their terror. In his effort to eradicate the gangs, Bukele has detained over 76,000 Salvadorans, many with little evidence or access to due process. Families pass months without any news of their imprisoned loved ones. Human rights groups have documented widespread human rights abuses. The Supreme Electoral Tribunal said Friday night that with 100% of the votes counted, Nayib Bukele won 84.6% of the vote in Sundays presidential election. The crackdown has broad support among Salvadorans who have been able to retake their neighborhoods, but children left without parents have been among its heaviest costs. While younger kids feel abandoned or confused why their parents have left, older teenagers are left with festering resentment or fear of authorities. In one San Salvador community, neighbors are rotating children as young as 3 years old, sharing the economic burden so the kids don't end up in the government system. If they do, the neighbors worry they could suffer sexual or physical abuse. Kids who slip through the cracks often end up on the street, said a local leader who asked not to share his name because he feared government retaliation. They are children, they're not guilty even if their parents did wrong, he said. But "they are forced to suffer. In Santa Ana, a 61-year-old grandmother had to take in eight grandchildren, feeding them with only the $30 a week she makes picking leaves to wrap tamales, and aid from the local church. The children say that, despite being innocent, theyre treated like criminals by neighbors. Now, they look at us as if we were scum, said 14-year-old Nicole, who still wants to be a police officer. For Alex, the pain is in the small moments. He misses his mother helping him with schoolwork and has nightmares about police coming to take away the rest of his family. When he got bullied at school, his mom would go to his teachers to defend him. Until last year the family would set off fireworks together on Christmas in the alley outside their home. Yet before police swept the neighborhood, the family would often hear gang shootouts ring out over their tin roof and neighbors would go missing. The family never let the kids play outside. Now, Alex and his 8-year-old brother run next to walls where the government has painted over the gang graffiti, so Maria Concepcion Ventura sees benefits to the crackdown. They just need to free the innocents. Those that are guilty should pay the price, but let the innocents go, she said, adding that her daughters detention prompted her to not vote in El Salvadors elections. El Salvadors government has admitted it made mistakes and has released some 7,000 people. The government has touted a youth program as a security strategy, which includes opening up libraries and recreational areas in formerly violence-torn areas, and providing many students in public schools with laptops and tablets. Many of those detained right now were kids that the state didnt care for, orphans of the war, kids whose parents had gone to the United States, or who died and grew up in dysfunctional families, and past governments didnt do anything for them, said Ulloa, on his way to a second term as vice president. And look what we have now criminals when they are adults. Ulloa said the administration was 100% obligated to provide for children of detained Salvadorans, but he could not list an example of what the government was doing for them. None of the five families interviewed by the AP said they'd received any aid from Bukeles government. Local churches assisting hundreds of families said they had not heard of any government aid being distributed to the kids. Even then, children need more than just monetary support, said Kenton Moody, the pastor of the local church providing Venturas family with food. These kids need love, Moody said. The government cant give love, only a family unit can. Editors Note The age of the child who died has been updated, based on new information from police. LANGLEY PARK, Md. (DC News Now) Police released the name of a 2-year-old boy who died after a shooting that took place in Langley Park late Thursday afternoon. The Prince Georges County Police Department (PGPD) said Friday that Jeremy Poou-Caceres of the Chillum area and his mother were hit by gunfire around 5:30 p.m. The 2-year-olds mother survived. PGPD said a detective was working in the 1400 block of Kanawha St. when he heard gunshots. The detective found Poou-Caceres and his mother shot outside in an apartment complex. The detective used his department-issued trauma kit on Poou-Caceres until an ambulance got to the neighorhood. Poou-Caceres died at the hospital. Police: Manassas man resisted arrest, hit officer with stolen magazine As of Friday, PGPD said investigators were trying to determine the reason for the shooting and find the person or people involved. Prince Georges County Police Department (PGPD) Assistant Chief Vermon Hale III encouraged anyone with information to contact police when he talked about what happened Thursday. This isnt about snitching, this is about justice of the victims, Hale said. This violence in this community has to stop, Deputy CAO-Public Safety, Barry Stanton, said. The trauma that families face, that communities face everyday over gun violence is totally unacceptable and were going to do all we can to get the perpetrators. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. PRINCE GEORGES COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now) The Prince Georges County Police Department said it was investigating a commercial robbery Thursday afternoon. The robbery happened around 1:30 p.m. in the 11000 block of Baltimore Ave. Police said that one man and two women were reported taking merchandise from a business. Maryland teen arrested for homicide in Northwest DC One of the suspects displayed a gun while another suspect hit one of the employees. The suspects shot at the business and got away in a dark-colored sedan. No injuries were reported from the shooting, but the worker had minor injuries after being hit. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Prince Georges County Crime Solvers online or submit a tip using the P3 Tips app. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. Britains Prince Harry presents the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award during the NFL Honors award show ahead of the Super Bowl Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024, in Las Vegas. | David J. Phillip, Associated Press Prince Harry has settled the remaining claims in his phone hacking lawsuit against British tabloid publisher Mirror Group Newspapers, per the BBC. The settlement will amount to 400,000 pounds, or $504,000 but the duke claims it wont end his long-running war against the British media. We have uncovered and proved the shockingly dishonest way in which the Mirror acted for so many years, Harry said in a statement read outside Londons High Court by his lawyer, David Sherborne, per the BBC. Harry vowed to continue his mission of holding British tabloids accountable and said he will continue to see it through to the end. After the settlement was announced, a spokesman for Mirror Group Newspapers issued this statement, per The Washington Post: We are pleased to have reached this agreement, which gives our business further clarity to move forward from events that took place many years ago and for which we have apologized. Related Two months ago, a high court judge partially ruled in Harrys favor, citing evidence of widespread and habitual illegal news gathering methods by Mirror Newsgroups between 2003 and 2009, as the Deseret News previously reported. Alongside Harry, more than 100 public figures accused the company of phone hacking and unlawful news gathering methods, per Reuters. They alleged that reporters obtained personal information by hiring private investigators to trick people into sharing personal information such as medical records and by illegally accessing voicemails. In his witness statement, Harry revealed how articles from Mirror Group Newspapers published intimate details about his life, which he said created unnecessary stress and strain in his romantic relationships and bouts of depression and paranoia. STATEMENT: I totally agree with Prince Harry that ruthless intrusion into the private lives of the Royal Family for financial gain is utterly reprehensible and I hope he stops doing it. Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) February 9, 2024 Piers Morgan former editor of the Daily Mirror and outspoken critic of Harry swiped at the duke via social media on Friday, tweeting: I totally agree with Prince Harry that ruthless intrusion into the private lives of the Royal Family for financial gain is utterly reprehensible and I hope he stops doing it. Harry had alleged in his Friday statement that Morgan knew perfectly well what was going on and his contempt for the courts ruling and his continued attacks ever since demonstrate why it was so important to obtain a clear and detailed judgment, per The New York Times. Morgan continues to deny involvement in the privacy violations. Following the high courts December ruling, Morgan claimed he never hacked a phone or told anyone else to hack a phone, adding that Harry wouldnt know truth if it slapped him in his California-tanned face, per The Washington Post. The judgment finds there is just one article relating to the prince published in the Daily Mirror during my entire nine-year tenure as editor that he thinks may have involved some unlawful information gathering, Morgan, who edited the Daily Mirror from 1995 to 2004, said about the December ruling, per NBC News. To be clear, I had then, and still have, zero knowledge of how that particular story was gathered. All these other claims against the Daily Mirror under my leadership were rejected, Morgan said. Harry remains involved in other ongoing lawsuits, including one against the publisher of The Sun. Prince Harry has settled the remaining elements of his phone hacking case against a British newspaper publisher found to have published stories on him gathered by unlawful means, firing a parting shot at Piers Morgan in the process. The Duke of Sussexs lawyers on Friday announced that Harry had accepted a substantial additional sum from Mirror Group Newspapers to end his years-long legal battle against the company. After originally being awarded around $177,000 in compensation in December, the publisher has now also agreed to pay an initial $500,000 towards his legal fees. Prince Harry Cracks Jokes in Surprise NFL Honors Appearance After Flying King Charles Visit In a statement read by his lawyer David Sherborne outside the court after Fridays hearing, Harry called for U.K. authorities to now uphold the rule of law and prove no one is above it. That includes Mr. Morgan, who as editor [of the Daily Mirror] knew perfectly well what was going on, as the judge held, Harry said. Even his own employer realized it simply could not call him as a witness of truth. His contempt for the courts ruling and his continued attacks ever since demonstrate why it was so important to obtain a clear and detailed judgment. A judge in December ruled that phone hacking was widespread and habitual at Mirror Group Newspapers in the 1990s, and that Harrys phone specifically had been breached to a modest extent. His case had revolved around 33 articles published between 1995 and 2011 which the royals attorneys claimed were evidence that hed been targeted in the hacking campaign. A judge ruled that 15 of the pieces were the product of phone hacking or other unlawful practice. Morgan, who edited the Daily Mirror between 1995 and 2004, has consistently denied wrongdoing. After the December ruling, Morgan made his own blistering public statement describing Harry as someone who wouldnt know the truth if it slapped him around his California-tanned face, and alleging that the princes real mission, along with his wife, is to destroy the British monarchy. Harrys settlement Friday means two more trials concerning another 115 articles will no longer take place. Everything we said was happening at Mirror Group was in fact happening, and indeed far worse as the court ruled in its extremely damning judgment, Harrys statement read. As the judge has said this morning, we have uncovered and proved the shockingly dishonest way the Mirror Group acted for many years and then sought to conceal the truth. He added: As I said back in December, our mission continues. I believe in the positive change it will bring for all of us. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Right-wing Israelis hold placards and photos of soldiers killed in Gaza at a protest outside the office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, calling for the war against Hamas to continue until a decisive victory, on Thursday. Photo by Debbie Hill/UPI Feb. 8 (UPI) -- Thousands of pro-Israel demonstrators turned out near Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office in Jerusalem on Thursday to protest a cease-fire and call for a "total defeat" of Hamas. Demonstrators waved pictures of fallen soldiers and victims of the Oct. 7 Hamas attack. Several demonstrators held signs that read "Qatar = Hamas, Hamas = Qatar," and "Qatar = Muslim Brotherhood." The protest comes after officials for Qatar, the United States and Egypt on Wednesday arranged for a proposed cease-fire deal between Hamas and Israel. Hamas said it would release its hostages in exchange for a permanent cease-fire and a complete Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected the proposal, describing it as "delusional" and an Israeli surrender. Demonstrator Alon Pel, who showed up with his family Thursday, told the Jerusalem Post he believes Netanyahu will keep his pledge to continue the war until "total victory" is secured. An Israeli man holds a placard warning that the "Release of terrorists will bring blood shed" during a protest outside the office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem on Thursday. Photo by Debbie Hill/UPI The Pel family held a handwritten sign quoting the words of King David, "I have pursued my enemies, and destroyed them, and turned back not again until I had consumed them." Rabbi Benny Kalmanzon, who lost a child in the war, said if Israel "gives in" to a deal, "there won't be any communities near the border and ... Each and every one of us will be a target." A man holds a Trump 2024 flag at a protest outside the office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, calling for the war against Hamas to continue until a decisive victory on Thursday. Photo by Debbie Hill/UPI Dedi Simchi, whose son was killed on Oct. 7, said Israel must not compromise on destroying Hamas. Polk County School Board member Lori Cunningham has been investigated by the state Ethics Commission over school uniforms that were sold by her company to Lake Wales Charter Schools. The Polk School Board does not oversee the Lake Wales system. The state Ethics Commission found probable cause that Polk County School Board member Lori Cunningham violated standards when a company she owns sold mandated school uniforms at two charter schools within the Lake Wales Charter Schools system. The commission also found there was no probable cause that her company sold uniforms to a district school, a Jan. 31 press release from the commission stated. Cunningham, who has served on the School Board for about 20 years, owns and runs a company founded in 2011 called Applied Images Inc. It sews logos onto uniforms and other apparel for a variety of organizations, commission documents show. Her attorney, Robin Gibson, who is also general counsel for Lake Wales Charter Schools and a Lake Wales city commissioner, called the case against Cunningham an unintentional mistake, in an prepared statement sent via email to a Ledger reporter. Charter schools are not well understood by a lot of folks and I believe the Order finding probable cause is an unintentional mistake, Gibson said. The Order does not find that Lori violated the ethics statute, he added. Its only the view that there is a probable cause of a violation and the question should go elsewhere for a decision. But Gibsons brief statement at the Jan. 26 ethics commission hearing did not sway the panel, including a least two of the commission members who spoke before the panel found probable cause, a recording of the proceeding shows. In the recording, he said funds for the uniforms passing through the schools were "private" and raised through donations. "There were no funds from the agency over which she had jurisdiction or control," he said. 'There's more than enough evidence' Still, the panel did not go along with Gibson's explanation. Theres more than enough evidence [for a probable cause finding] The paper dont lie. And the checks dont lie, said Wengay Newton, a commission member. Newton was referring to a ledger from Lake Wales High School that showed checks written to Applied Images. According to an investigation report, the charter school chief financial officer turned over records showing "that from January 5, 2018 to present day, LWHS has paid a total of $16,886.58 to Applied Images." Newton was joined by commission member William P. Cervone, who added, To me, the problem is that shes gaining entree through her position as a School Board member. I dont care whos paying for it." According to the report, Gibson had told Cunningham and commission investigators that there was nothing wrong with his client selling uniforms to Lake Wales Charter School families. He told investigators that LWCS is a nonprofit organization operating charter schools with its own board of directors and Cunningham is not a member of that board. Also, the charter system receives the same per-student allotment from the Florida Education Finance Program that Polk County Public Schools gets. But the Polk public school district does not control the LWCS budgets, how it spends funds nor its contracts, he said. He added that federal funds go directly to the charter system and no longer come through the public school district. Gibson also advised Cunningham and others in a 2012 email about her business relationship with LWCS and told her it would be a conflict of interest, the report shows in correspondence contained as part of the investigation. "The bottom line is that our schools should not use school money to purchase anything from a company in which a school board member has an interest. This applies to the Polk School Board as well as our own Board of Trustiees." He added, "Even if the price we get is at or below market and the service is above competition, the appearance of buying favor from a public official still exists." Gibson had provided Cunningham with his opinion about a year after a 2011 memorandum of understanding, which also was an exhibit in the report, showing Applied Images and another vendor as being able to sell uniforms to parents. A percentage of the funds generated by the sales were to go back to the charter schools, and the vendors were to assist families in dire need of uniforms, which are mandatory at LWCS. More recently, Gibson had re-evaluated the business relationship, he told investigators. In my opinion, you would have a conflict of interest if you did business with the agency that you serve as a public officer, Gibson wrote in a letter attached to the report. You do not have a conflict of interest while doing business with an agency that you do not serve as a public officer. Further, he wrote, the individuals buying the uniforms have the freedom to buy them wherever they decide under rights guaranteed in the Florida Constitution. He did advise Cunningham to avoid sales with district schools, but even those potential customers have individual rights to decide where they want to buy uniforms. In the 51-page report, the investigators also interviewed the superintendents of both PCPS and LWCS as well as the districts School Board attorney. Others interviewed included principals at the schools identified in the complaint. The commission investigators reported to the panel that initially the principals said they had not been purchasing uniforms from Applied Images, but later changed their story once they saw the ledger. Five in five days: Florida hospitals are dumping patients at Lakeland homeless shelter Exhibits within the report included marketing materials showing Applied Images as a vendor for uniforms that would have been viewed by friends of the Lake Wales High School Facebook page and also marketing on the charter high schools website. The exhibits show invoices from Cunninghams business to LWCS and the ledger showing payments to her business. The final say on the matter is expected during a public hearing later this year before a judge with the Florida Division of Administrative Hearings. 'There is no hint of misunderstanding' The process started after the Florida Commission on Ethics in Tallahassee received a complaint on Jan. 5, 2023, from former School Board member Billy Townsend. He had asked the state for clarification on possible violations of the Code of Ethics for Public Officers and Employees. The complaint shows that the commission investigated sales of school uniforms at three schools, including Dundee Elementary Academy Magnet School, a district public school; and Bok Middle Academy and Lake Wales High School, which are part of the Lake Wales public charter school system. During the investigation, probable cause was not found when they looked into possible sales of Applied Images uniforms directly to Dundee Elementary. But parents could have purchased uniforms on their own. The executive director of the commission had initiated an investigation into allegations of unethical behavior after receiving the complaint. The ethics commission has an advocate and uses investigators with the State Attorneys Office. The investigators provide the advocate with its findings after looking into an ethics complaint and the advocate presents the report of investigation to the panel. During a phone interview on Monday, Townsend disagreed with the position Cunninghams attorney took with the commission that they misunderstood how charters operate. There is no hint of misunderstanding here, Townsend said. She did precisely what Mr. Gibson himself advised her not to do way back in 2012. Now the state can decide if that is ethical or not, he said. I just want clarity on behalf of citizens and people forced to buy school uniforms from a School Board member. In a press release issued Jan. 31, the Ethics Commission said Cunningham was investigated for a conflicting contractual relationship that created a continuing or frequently recurring conflict between her private interests and the performance of her public duties when a company she owns sold uniforms to Lake Wales Charter Schools. As a Polk County School Board member, Cunningham did vote to renew the charters for several of the Lake Wales Charter Schools, according to minutes on the district website and broadcasts of the meetings. A settlement or hearing? Since the Jan. 26 hearing, Cunningham had 14 days to request a hearing or reach a stipulated agreement that is usually decided and reviewed by the commission at its next meeting. It was unclear Friday whether she had done so. Within the past year, only two cases went to a hearing before a judge with the Florida Division of Administrative Hearings. Most cases before the commission end up with a stipulated agreement, meaning a potential fine or penalty for the party involved. Last year, there were 13 agreements reached with the commissions advocate an employee of the Attorney Generals Office. The Governors Office enforces agreements involving school board members. This article originally appeared on The Ledger: Ethics board says Lori Cunningham might have violated standards FILE - Far-right politician Bjoern Hoecke, Thuringia's AfD parliamentary group leader, speaks at the special plenary session of the Thuringia state parliament in Erfurt, Germany, Jan. 20, 2021. A court says Bjoern Hoecke, one of the most prominent figures in the far-right Alternative for Germany party, will go on trial in April 2024 on charges related to his alleged use in a 2021 speech of a slogan used by the Nazis SA stormtroopers. (Michael Reichel/dpa via AP, File) BERLIN (AP) One of the most prominent figures in the far-right Alternative for Germany party will go on trial in April on charges related to his alleged use in a 2021 speech of a slogan used by the Nazis' SA stormtroopers, a court said Friday. Bjorn Hocke, 51, is the party's leader in the eastern state of Thuringia and an influential figure on the hard right of Alternative for Germany, or AfD. He is set to lead its campaign in a state election set for Sept. 1. In the case scheduled for trial at the state court in Halle on April 18, Hocke is charged with using symbols of unconstitutional and terrorist organizations. He is accused of ending a speech in nearby Merseburg in May 2021 with the words Everything for Germany! Prosecutors contend he was aware of the origin of the phrase as an SA slogan. They have said Hockes lawyers denied that his words had any criminal relevance. The court scheduled four sessions through May 14. Hocke also faces trial on charges of incitement in a separate case related to a 2022 Telegram post. The court in Muehlhausen, located in his home state, has set no dates yet. AfDs branch in Thuringia has a particularly radical reputation and is viewed by Germany's domestic intelligence agency as a proven right-wing extremist group. Hocke once called the Holocaust memorial in Berlin a monument of shame and called for Germany to perform a 180-degree turn in how it remembers its past. A party tribunal at the time rejected a bid to have him expelled. National polls in recent months have shown AfD in second place behind the mainstream conservative opposition, and the party is particularly strong in the country's formerly communist east. In recent weeks, there has been a string of large protests against the far right following a report that extremists met to discuss deporting millions of immigrants, including some with German citizenship, and that some members of AfD were present. Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Russia "did not achieve its goals" in the war against Ukraine, and also mentioned that Russia was "forced to take Crimea under its protection" in 2014. Source: Putin in an interview with infamous former TV host Tucker Carlson Details: Speaking about the war against Ukraine, Putin said that Russia has not yet "achieved the goals of the special military operation" [as the war against Ukraine is called in Russia ed.], one of which is "denazification", i.e. the "prohibition of all neo-Nazi movements." The Russian president also stated that "Ukraine started the war, and Russia's goal is to stop it." Regarding the question of Russia's occupation of Crimea, Carlson stated that the Russian president Vladimir Putin would not return Crimea to Ukraine for the sake of achieving peace. Quote from Carlson: "Crimea was already in Russia's hands at the beginning of this war. So, if you truly believe that Putin must give up Crimea as a condition for achieving peace, then you are insane." Details: In the interview, Putin claimed that Russia in 2014 was "forced to take Crimea under its protection because the peninsula was under threat." Putin reiterated all the well-known narratives of Russian propaganda, including those related to the war in Ukraine, in his interview with Carlson. Note: Tucker Carlson was the host of the Tucker Carlson Tonight programme on Fox News from 2016 to 2023, but last April, he was fired without an official explanation from his employer. CNN noted that Carlson was "a top promoter of conspiracy theories and radical rhetoric" at the channel. Background: In the same interview, Putin accused Ukraine of being unwilling to negotiate. Previously: Carlson announced his interview with the President of Russia, for which he travelled to Moscow. He stated that he requested an interview with the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as well. In November, former US President Donald Trump said that he was considering anti-Ukrainian TV host Tucker Carlson as a potential running mate and vice president. Support UP or become our patron! A bill filed by Sen. Dusty Deevers, R-Elgin, would modify grounds for divorce, making it more difficult to end a marriage in Oklahoma. Senate Bill 1958 would remove incompatibility as a permissible ground for divorce, effectively abolishing no-fault divorce. Last week, we asked readers their thoughts on the prospect of SB 1958 passing in Oklahoma. From email submissions to survey form responses, here are the comments we've gathered on this topic: From our inbox Oklahoma legislators should stop their bills to control other peoples lives. It is bad enough that abortion is now banned setting Oklahoma back to the 1920s! Now they want to stop people who are incompatible for various reasons from seeking a divorce! I assume that wife battering just OK with them along with a rape victim forced to carry her rapists baby to term. These personal decisions should be made by the people affected and certainly not the state Legislature! So sad! Kitty Casey, Norman My daughter was married to a narcissist who emotionally abused her for 20 years. It took friends giving her information about her abuse and learning that her husband is a narcissist and what narcissism is and a few more years to have the emotional strength to file for a divorce. All after a STEMI and kidney cancer caused by her stressful abusive marriage. Without physical abusive and when no fault divorces are not an option, her marriage would end in her premature death. These women would have no option but to remain in their abusive relationships. Joaane Dolin, Caney Enough with governmental overreach. They can file for divorce somewhere else. This Senate Bill 1958 will be costly for all involved. Glenn McCraw In Oklahoma's current system it takes two to get married but only one to get a divorce. But, is legislation making divorce more difficult the best answer? Marriage counselors ask the question which one is involved with a third party? In many cases, a third party is involved or at least in the mind of one of the spouses. And yes a married individual who has been wronged by a spouse would like all the dirty details of the indiscretion to be brought out in court! However, lawyers are the only ones who actually benefit from divorce certainly not the plantiff or the defendant. It might be a better solution to make marriage more difficult than to make divorce more difficult. Perhaps, a six-month waiting period after the initial request for an Oklahoma marriage license might be considered. Making a husband and wife live with each other when a third party is involved will not end well! Ron Sharp, Shawnee This bill is just useless. Why spend time on a bill when there are more important things going on in the USA. Let's work on the homeless, our veterans and maybe the Mexico border. Give the money to the poor that you're giving to the Immigrants. Debbie Yowell, Yukon I think women should be able to get out when abused and not told to stay by someone who doesnt live that life. Men, too, if theyre getting beat. Oklahoma has victim shamed for years. The government needs to get off marriage period. Should be automatically 50/50 custody. Should put in there no other woman or man in the house after the divorce, also not even dates. Its ruining these kids' lives because parents cheat and do whatever to hurt each other. Rachael Slawson I do not believe its the state business why anyone gets divorced or stays married!!! How will this help anyone except more fees for Oklahoma? Dena Loyd Yes, today and in the past, it was, and still is today, the easy way out. And commitment was made when there was love and couldn't wait to marry and live happily ever after and then here comes, I want a divorce. In my opinion, easy to say, "I do," and now divorce. I think all parties should stick to their agreement. Whomever decides to leave, should pay a penalty and jail time and community service and that should hold for 2 years or even more. If there's children, they are the ones to suffer for their parents indiscretion and anything to part from the family unit. PASS THE BILL. Irene Adams, Comanche Doing away with no fault divorce will bring back the worst parts of the old divorce litigations: parents using testimonies by their children against their spouses. Making divorce easy isnt something to be proud of, but when one member of a marriage wants out its best to do it without all the finger pointing. Paul Mullon, Ripley This proposed bill authored by Mr. Deevers is just another effort to subjugate women in the state of Oklahoma. He has no idea what life in a marriage can descend to. Give a woman a chance to get out of a bad situation without requiring things that might put a woman in further jeopardy. This bill should go down in flames!! Suzanne Rogers, Edmond This legislation makes no sense. If a couple agrees to dissolve their marriage, it is not the state's business and should not be blocked! Slows down the court's business as well. The Republican Party is supposed to be about less government, right? Looks like this state is moving in the wrong direction. Patti Ellis I personally feel like the law is too loose as it is. Couples make a vow, a promise to each other when they enter into this contract of marriage to love and honor each other until death. But with the laws as they are, it's always in the back of their mind that if it doesn't work out and we can't get along then we'll just get a divorce. There needs to be more commitment. More trying to work through the hard times instead of breaking and running. Yes, I am all for stronger laws on divorce. I know how hard it is to stay committed and work through the hard times, but if you know for sure you love someone when you enter marriage you can make it happen. 46 1/2 years of marriage experience and counting and I married at the age of 16 because of love. Dee Patterson, Duncan This is going backwards. If people want a divorce, they should have the right to do so. State government needs to stay out of abortion, divorce and religion. It's none of their business. This state is the worst state in the union. Mary Toney If no-fault divorce is eliminated, the result will once again become the "blame game" and nastiness which benefits no one especially children of a marriage. A really bad idea. Mary-Lou Jenkins, Edmond Well, if this bill is passed to make it harder to get a divorce, I think there will be more domestic abuse. If two people argue all the time and tempers flare, then I think the argument will turn physical. If the lawmakers want real prison reform, then they should not pass this bill. In my opinion the Oklahoma lawmakers should keep their nose out of people's business. Arlus Morrison Sr. From our survey form Absolutely insane. Why make every person in every divorce case have to make it a bitter and contentious battle, exchanging real or imagined conflict, when all that most of them want is to simply put an end to it and start over on their own once again? When married life is already seen as a mistake, why force them to create hostilities when all they usually want is to start over with two clean slates? John Michalski, Oklahoma City No-Fault divorce has sadly too often resulted in undermining the incentive to not quit on your marriage. The fallout in single parent families (80% women), fatherless children, poverty, etc. to some extent results from this. Til death do us part has too often given way to a whole lot less to detriment of marriages, children, and society. Hopefully, the tide can be turned. Any such step needs to address the needs couples have for readiness in getting married and help in working through its hardships. Douglas Burr, Edmond Not a good idea! People will just have to lie as to why they want a divorce, and most reasons will be hurtful and painful to a lot of children. Willa Ross, Piedmont Does Senator Deevers wish to return to the time when the only way to end a marriage was fault-based? Children exposed to categories such as infidelity, domestic violence or substance abuse so that a marriage could be ended? Kathryn Williams, Edmond It is so wrong. It will cause irreparable damage to families. The courts will be clogged. Families will have to reveal difficult times to a wider audience that has no business knowing the troubles theyve been through. This is another political play to suppress women and marital abuse which goes unchecked in this society. Couples will have to create some sort of fault-based scenarios and it will be a he-said, she-said contest. With most judges being male, it will likely be the male spouse who wins this contest. The only winners in this bill would be lawyers. Sen. Deevers only cares about his way of thinking. He probably has never experienced domestic abuse where the one abused is not believed or listened to. I should have the right to say without having to prove anything, I am not going to take it anymore and I am walking away. He is seeing life through one lens. Even Governor Ronald Reagan, himself divorced, could understand the need for an easy way to get out of a great mistake. Dana Morrow, Oklahoma City How dare the govt tell me to stay/live with someone I dont want to? Would that be like telling my high school graduate child he can live at home for free because the law says I cant kick him out of the house & tell him to get a job??? Senators need to stay out of my house!!!! Judy Bush, Yukon I think what free Americans do is NONE of his or the state of Oklahomas business. My goodness, how about focusing on some real issues that will benefit all Oklahomans instead of more culture wars. C. Thompson, Shawnee Requiring proof in court of some of the reasons for divorce presents too much difficulty and personal anguish for many people. It would also greatly increase the cost of divorce and potentially put it out of reach for many. Imagine a abused woman with no money of her own attempting to escape a situation which could potentially lead to death. Look at the statistics of women in Oklahoma killed by a spouse. Jo Ann Dickey, Oklahoma City They should call the bill "Divorce Lawyers Relief because of all the unnecessary litigation and hate it will stir up. Incompatibility is a graceful way to exit a doomed union without public allegations that will help no one. Ron Heller, Oklahoma City People will just go out of state. State legislators should stay out of people's marriages. Having to name someone at Fault can cause more hard feelings and grief. STOP TRYING TO MANAGE PEOPLE'S PERSONAL LIVES. Mikki Couch, Stillwater I agree with the changes of this no fault divorce. I believe all evidence of cheating, physical or mental abuse should be considered. I have suffered all. If both parties agree on no fault, so be it. When there is reasons I stated, should absolutely be taken into consideration. Karen Coots, Tahlequah It should not pass. I didn't think Republicans wanted more government getting in our business and that is is exactly what this bill does. NO!! Stay out of our personal lives. Cindy Westbrook, Oklahoma City If the married couple agree to divorce, it is not a lawmakers business to object!! This would only make it harder for the couple to divorce, which I believe is their right!! Think of the children in this situation. They deserve to be raised by parents that are happy, not miserable in their marriage. This would do irreparable harm to the children and the parents!! I believe this bill is ridiculous and makes Oklahoma look backward and like we're living in 1950. Sen. Deevers should be ashamed to try to interject his beliefs into the marriages of others. IT'S NONE OF HIS BUSINESS!!!! HE SHOULD SPEND HIS TIME ON BILLS THAT WOULD IMPROVE THE LIVES OF OKLAHOMANS. THIS BILL MAKES ME ASHAMED AND EMBARRASSED TO LIVE IN OKLAHOMA. Connie Beene, Coweta It puts women who are being emotionally abused in a dangerous situation. Emotional abuse is difficult to prove and without physical evidence these women who be forced to stay married to there abusers. Joanne Dolin, Caney, Kansas Funny that it should be numbered 1958 when it feels as though the whole point is to take us back in time to the '50s and before, you know, the good old days when women were meant only to look pretty and serve the menfolk. By denying no-fault grounds for divorce they would require irrefutable proof of wrongdoing by the other spouse and for women in abusive marriages that is not only downright dangerous, it could be deadly. Jessica Bryant, Velma I believe that there are many other bills out there that need attention rather than something so minor as it being two people who simply are not compatible with one another. It is what it is. Come on, like what are they supposed to file it as? Oklahoma needs to take a step back and focus on the things that really need to matter. Tobie Johnson, Holdenville Force people together without an out and see how high domestic abuse rates raise! Dusty Deevers, keep your beliefs and your religion out of people's families. Jeremy Robbins, Elgin It is a backwards and ill conceived proposal. Why is it conservatives want to interfere in the personal business of others? Why do they always want to make things more difficult for others? If a couple rushes into matrimony while caught up in the thrill of new love or lust then realizes it was a mistake, for goodness sake let them correct their mistake before things go bad. Before children are added to the mix or abuse begins. Nancy Cook, Norman I have heard several lawmakers call for ending no-fault divorce over the years, but those calls never go anywhere. I think no-fault divorce is so firmly enshrined in American law that nothing will dislodge it. Eric Swanson, Lawton Changing the law to make divorce harder has no advantages. Only disadvantages. It will cost more in legal fees, filing fees and will not have any effect on lowering divorce rates. As traumatic as divorce already is, it makes no sense to make it any harder, legally or economically. Just stop trying to fix something that isn't broken. SMH Richard Hooper, Yukon This is a private matter and another example of politicians needing to learn to mind their own business. There are plenty of useful government roles. This isnt one of them. Jeremy N., Oklahoma City Republicans are always talking about smaller government but always try to restrict people more. Kyle Hey, Stillwater What is the point of keeping someone in a marriage they don't want to be in? Why is this a priority for the Oklahoma state government? Justin Watson, Norman People can grow apart. If not compatible, it's just that simple. Marriage is not a hostile takeover. It takes parties who are committed to being together. If not, no one should be enslaved when they have agreed to be apart. A.J., Oklahoma City Incompatibility needs to remain as an option for divorce. Forcing people to stay in relationships is not healthy for them or any children they may have. Evalyn Ward, Heavener That is a ridiculous idea and I would like to know the reason behind the bill. Is it some sort of religious ideology that forbids divorce? Some sort of economic impact to the state? Seems like a complete waste of time and resources. Andrea Longmire, Moore The Public Square logo Editor's note: Due to limited space, we could not include all responses, but we encourage readers to keep up with future questions by subscribing to our opinion newsletter, Oklahoma Public Square This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma bill would remove incompatibility divorces. Readers respond New records released Friday detail allegations against former Manatee County Administrator Scott Hopes, who is being prosecuted on three third-degree felony charges. State Attorney Ed Brodsky filed charges against Hopes on Thursday, including grand theft, notary fraud, and fraudulent use of public records. New records made public on Friday indicate that Hopes is charged with the grand theft of $12,778.52 in county funds received as overpayment during three emergencies that occurred during his tenure as administrator. His contract does not allow for payment of overtime, court records show. In total, during the three emergencies, Hopes was overpaid $12,778.52, according to claims made against him. A third-degree grand theft charge has been filed against Hopes as a result, and because of that finding, Hopes has also been charged with a third-degree felony for the fraudulent use of public records. Additionally, Hopes was charged with a third-degree felony for allegations that he forged a notarization of two county records. Emergency operations pay in question Scott Hope's tenure as Manatee County administrator started on April Fool's Day 2021, and he was thrust into an emergency response situation almost immediately. Felony charges made against him this week claim that pay received during that incident, and also during two emergency response situations to hurricane's Ian and Nicole. Court records indicate that Hopes was only eligible for 56 hours of pay during the pay period, however, Hopes filed for 106 hours of pay. Computer functions were limited to pay for only 80 hours because there was no emergency pay code in effect, but it still resulted in $2,157.79 of overpayment to Hopes which was never returned. Records do not make note of the Piney Point fertilizer plant emergency response situation that occurred during those dates. Hope's pay during Hurricane Ian is also in question. The charge filed against Hopes claims that he was overpaid by $8,863.60 and no evidence was found to indicate that restitution was ever attempted. Another state of emergency was also declared in Manatee County between Nov. 5 and Nov. 18, 2022, in response to Hurricane Nicole. During that pay period, Hopes received pay for 38.5 hours of vacation and 50.5 emergency weather hours. The cost of the seventeen additional hours amounted to $1,757.24. Fraudulent notary public signature Hopes is also accused of a third-degree felony for the forgery of a notary public signature on two county documents. An aide for the Manatee County Commission, who is also a certified notary, filed a complaint against Hopes on April 20 claiming that two documents published on the Manatee County Clerk of Court's website contained her forged signature and were fraudulently notarized. The records in question were to confirm the satisfaction of State Housing Initiative Partnership Program loan terms to two parties. Both documents were signed by Hopes and witnessed by two staff members. Both documents indicate they were notarized by the complainant on December 27, 2022, however, the complainant was actually on a cruise during a vacation on that date. The complainant gave a sworn statement that the notarization of the document was forged, and investigators found "readily apparent" differences in handwriting and other reasons to believe the complaint. Handling of public records The MCSO's investigation began after a complaint was filed against Hopes by Florida Center for Government Accountability Director of Public Access Initiatives Michael Barfield. He claimed that Hopes wiped his county-issued devices before returning them to the county upon his resignation. According to public records, Hopes was almost scot-free on those claims until he decided to provide a statement in January to the State Attorney's office. Upon investigation, MCSO found that Hopes did reset his devices in the presence of county IT staff but that the records were not destroyed. The Manatee County Sheriff's Office was able to recover unredacted versions of public records on the devices, and upon inspection, the office reported that it even agreed with redactions made to copies of those records that had been released to the public. Investigators noted that they were left wondering why Hopes would want to wipe the devices so eagerly, and stated they did find photographs of a medical nature on the device that could have been the reason. However, after the MCSO investigation had concluded, Hope's attorney Lisa Chittaro contacted the State Attorney's office with notice that Hopes was willing to provide a statement after previous silence on the matter. During a sworn interview, Hopes indicated that he had tried to erase the data because he was concerned about the presence of confidential alarm codes. According to records, the statement incriminated Hopes by indicating intent to destroy a record even though none were found to be destroyed by detectives. Detectives found probable cause to believe that Hopes intentionally and improperly destroyed public records. However, Brodsky's office did not pursue charges on that claim. This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Records shed light on felony charges made against Scott Hopes Gov. Ned Lamont speaks on the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly session, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media Connecticut residents pay millions of dollars in New York State taxes every year while working from home. Gov. Ned Lamont's administration announced a plan Wednesday to get them to sue to get some of the money back. AP Photo/Jon Elswick HARTFORD Roughly 75,000 Connecticut residents commute to jobs in New York. On Wednesday, Gov. Ned Lamonts administration revealed its plan to encourage those workers to sue the state over the shift to remote work. The plan, hatched as part of Lamonts annual budget proposal, is part of a broader dispute among neighbors over how to tax work performed at home by employees whose offices are located across state lines. If successful, officials estimate that it could one day help the state recoup up to $200 million in taxes currently being paid into New Yorks coffers. Advertisement Article continues below this ad As explained by Lamonts Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management Jeffrey Beckham, Connecticut's plan is to spur a series of individual lawsuits in federal court challenging New Yorks tax policies by offering to steeply discount any state taxes owed to Connecticut if the residents win their case which Beckham conceded will likely take years and ultimately be decided by the U.S. Supreme Court. If successful, Beckham said that Connecticut will agree to cut any additional taxes owed during the peak-pandemic years of 2020 to 2023 in half. Because Connecticuts top income tax rate of 6.99 percent is lower than New Yorks top rate of 10.90 percent, successful plaintiffs would, in theory, receive an additional incentive into the future for any time spent working at home. New Jerseys doing this as well, were going to try it and see what happens, Beckham said. New York Gov. Kathy Hochuls office did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Wednesday. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Full details of the plan had yet to fully reach lawmakers as Lamont gave his budget address later Wednesday, which did not reference the tax proposal. Senate Minority Leader Kevin Kelly, R-Stratford, said Wednesday that he needed more time to review the specifics of the proposal, but offered that it would be of great interest to his constituents in the commuter suburbs of Fairfield County. Its one thing back before COVID, when youre physically in New York doing your job, Kelly said. Chris Collibee, a spokesman for OPM, said that Lamont plans to include the policy within a larger budget implementer bill that is typically passed in the waning days of the legislative session. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Under Connecticuts tax codes, residents of other states who commute into Connecticut for work are able to pay income taxes in their home state for remote work also known as a convenience of the employer rule but only if their home state offers a similar policy. Because New York operates under different rules, Connecticut taxes New Yorkers who make a reverse commute for any remote work they do at home, Collibee said. The U.S. Supreme Court in 2021 declined to weigh in on a similar tax dispute between New Hampshire and Massachusetts, which had implemented a temporary rule to collect taxes from commuters staying at home during the pandemic. Shane Dublin A year after joining the Reeds Spring district, Shane Dublin has been promoted. Dublin currently serves as the district's first human resources director. Starting July 1, he will serve as the assistant superintendent of operations. He has worked in several area districts in the past decade including Bolivar, Springfield and Willard. The Reeds Spring district recently realigned its administrative roles and responsibilities, part of an overarching effort to enhance efficiency, and announced a series of leadership changes. In the new role, Dublin will oversee all district operations. I firmly believe that the recent realignment of our administrative roles and responsibilities marks a pivotal moment in our journey towards excellence, said Superintendent Dr. Cody Hirschi, in a news release. These changes are not just about restructuring; they are a reflection of our unwavering dedication to providing the highest quality of education. By optimizing our administrative framework, we are paving the way for innovative practices, improved decision-making processes, and a more collaborative environment." Dublin spent three years in Willard, where he was assistant superintendent of academics; four years in Springfield as the executive director of secondary learning; and was a middle school principal in Bolivar. He also previously worked in Halfway. More: Willard's Shane Dublin, formerly of SPS, is moving to Reeds Spring district The following leadership changes were also announced: Liz Smith, director of special services and federal programs, will become the director of business and finance. She will lead the human resources department and assist the superintendent with overseeing finances; Joe Carlile has been named director of information and technology. He previously served in a similar role in the Missouri National Guard, where he was responsible for technology and logistics; Garet Nunan, assistant principal at Reeds Spring Middle School, will be the director of special services and federal programs. This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Shane Dublin named assistant superintendent in Reeds Spring district Houses under construction in the east end of Regina in April 21, 2022. (Cory Herperger/CBC - image credit) The City of Regina has overhauled its regulations around density and development, and will now have federal money to show for it. On Friday, Federal Housing Minister Sean Fraser and Mayor Sandra Masters quietly announced that the city will receive $35 million from Ottawa's housing accelerator fund (HAF). The money is meant to fast track more than 1,000 housing units over the next three years. The homes will be on top of what is normally built in the city. "When we see the ambition that Regina is demonstrating, it's absolutely exciting because when we have good partners on the ground. This is what gives me a sense of optimism that we're going to be able to actually bring to an end the housing crisis we're living through," Fraser said during a news conference Friday. The funding is the culmination of an application process that began in June 2023, when the city applied for $36.2 million from the federal government's Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and its housing accelerator fund. The money awarded on Friday is a bit less than the original request from the city, but Masters still welcomed it, calling the HAF an innovative approach to a solution everyone is experiencing. "Municipalities need help when it comes to innovation and transformation," she said. Fraser has made regular announcements across the country announcing funding for cities and municipalities through the HAF. "For many years, a culture has grown in Canada of making it very difficult to build more homes through permitting, processing, zoning practices that make it difficult to make space for more neighbours," Fraser said. That's what the CMHC's fund is meant to address, Fraser said. Successful applicants are expected to use the money on housing and infrastructure that supports housing growth. Regina's action plan commits the city to a series local initiatives, including zoning changes to allow four units per residential lot, promoting density though multi-family homes and multiplexes, allowing greater density along urban corridors by increasing height limit restrictions and ensuring that different kinds of homes can be built in already established neighbourhoods. Some of those changes have already been approved by Regina city council. Masters said the city will get to work right away on using the funds. "We want to go fast here in the City of Regina," she said. "We know that our vacancy rate for rental is below 1 per cent in most areas of the city. What's happening is it's putting pressure on rent and we just don't have enough supply coming into market." Regina's application and the changes have been warmly welcomed by experts and the development industry. Along with the planning and zoning changes, the City of Regina will develop a funding program to cover pre-development costs for redevelopment of underused sites, and help build more homes by partnering with non-profit housing groups, according to the release. ELIZABETHTON, Tenn. (WJHL) Elizabethton investigators are seeking leads after another ATM was burglarized early Friday morning, marking at least the sixth local ATM theft in recent months. Officers responded just after 4 a.m. to the Carter County Bank at 1254 Milligan Highway where they found that an ATM had been burglarized. Authorities respond to escalated Johnson Co. situation According to the Elizabethton Police Department (EPD), an abandoned pickup was found in the parking lot of a business in the 1300 block of Milligan Highway. It was determined that the vehicle had been stolen from a business in the 2600 block of Elizabethton Highway and was used in the burglary. Police said a chain attached to the truck, a 2000 model Dodge full-size pickup, was used to break into the ATM and an undetermined amount of cash was stolen. We need help from the public with this investigation, the police department said in a release. We kindly ask residents and business owners in the areas of the Elizabethton Highway, Milligan Highway, West Elk Avenue, Pinecrest, Central, King Springs, and Milligan College communities, including the areas near and in between to review your security cameras for suspicious activity and other vehicles from last night through early this morning. Nominate: Tri-Cities Best Thrift Store The police department said the truck arrived at the bank with the chain already attached. Area businesses and farms that use heavy chains should check inventory to determine if they have a heavy chain stolen during the overnight hours, EPD said. Tips can be submitted to Investigator David Peters at 423-547-6225 or dpeters@elizabethtonpolice.org or submitted to the criminal investigation division tip line at 423-547-6250 or drugagents1@elizabethtonpolice.org. To submit a tip via text message, text TIPEPD with the tip to 847411. This is the latest in a string of ATM burglaries across the region in recent months. Three ATMs in Johnson City were targeted between October and December. A Mosheim ATM was broken into in November, and three suspects reportedly made out with more than $84,000. Last month, a skid steer was used to break into an ATM in Roan Mountain. A North Carolina man was arrested and charged about two weeks later, but the sheriff said he didnt think the suspect was connected to the other local ATM burglaries. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather. Shortly before the troubled Erie Rise Leadership Academy Charter School shut down its operations for students at the end of June 2023, investigators with the U.S. Department of Education searched its offices and the offices of an Erie community center. The department confirmed the search at the time, but provided no details and said it still has nothing new to report. But details of the investigation have emerged in Erie County Common Pleas Court, where the Erie School District wants a judge to order Erie Rise to turn over bank statements and other records as the district tries to speed up the financial dissolution of the former charter school. The Pennsylvania State Police helped investigators with the U.S. Department of Education search the offices of the Erie Rise charter school and the Booker T. Washington Center, shown here, on June 7, 2023. The school and the center partnered on programs that a federal grant funded. The search of the Erie Rise offices on June 7 concerned a multimillion-dollar federal grant for after-school programs for students from low-income families, a consultant with Erie Rise testified at a hearing on the Erie School District's request on Thursday. The investigators that same day searched the offices of the Booker T. Washington Community Center at East 18th and Holland streets in Erie. The center had partnered with Erie Rise to implement the program under a 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant. The government first awarded Erie Rise the grant in 2017, and it started at $400,000 a year over three years. The grant ended in 2023. The consultant said the investigators at Erie Rise removed computers that have yet to be returned, which he said has stymied some of Erie Rise's efforts to gather information for the school district. Asked about the search on the witness stand, the consultant, Christian Anderson Sr., of Maryland, said the search warrant showed the investigation was about Erie Rise's 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant. "The focus of the audit was that," said Anderson, who corrected himself to say he meant "investigation" rather than "audit." He said had no further information on the search and had been working with the Department of Education's Office of Inspector General to get the computers back. As to the state of he investigation, Anderson said, "We haven't heard anything at this point." Feds took computers, files of Erie Rise officials, witness says The other witness who testified Thursday was Neal Brokman, the assistant Erie schools superintendent who is the liaison to charter schools. He said investigators during the search took "all top-level executives' files and computers" at Erie Rise but said he had no further information. He said he has heard nothing new about the search. A spokeswoman for the U.S. Department of Education told the Erie Times-News by email on Thursday that the department has no new information to release on the investigation. The Erie Rise Leadership Academy Charter School, at West 10th and Cascade streets, closed as a school in June 2023. The sign has since been removed. The federal government funds the 21st Century grant program and the Pennsylvania Department of Education administers it. The grants are to establish community learning centers for after-school programs. The Booker T. Washington Center received funding from Erie Rise to provide services as part of the grant program, according Erie Rise financial records. The probe of the grant has been looming over Erie Rise since it closed to students on June 30, 2023. The school, which had been leasing the former Emerson School building at West 10th and Cascade streets, shut down after the Erie School Board voted in January 2023 to revoke its charter due to poor academic performance and other issues. Erie Rise left its building at the end of November. Erie Rise has maintained offices at the Booker T. Washington Center as the school moves to complete a state-required financial dissolution. Erie School District gets records from Erie Rise on eve of hearing The Erie School District, as Erie Rise's chartering agency, has oversight of the school and is arguing that the dissolution should have occurred by now. Taxpayers funded Erie Rise, with the Erie School District sending it $3.4 million in 2023. The district has gone to court to ask Judge Marshall Piccinini to order Erie Rise to turn over financial documents. The district said it needs the records to identify Erie Rise's remaining public funds and other assets, most of which are to revert to the district. The district also wants Piccinini to appoint a receiver that would take over the dissolution process from Anderson, the Erie Rise consultant. Thursday's hearing was about the requests for documents and a receiver. After months of failing to provide the Erie School District the requested records, Erie Rise at 11:30 p.m. on Wednesday emailed the district a trove of documents, according to testimony. The district's lawyers and Brokman, the assistant superintendent, said at the hearing that they need more time to review all the documents. They said they remain concerned that the district has yet to receive all the documents to which it is entitled. Erie County Judge Marshall Piccinini is hearing the case between the Erie School District and the former Erie Rise charter school. Piccinini said he would rule later on the district's request for more documents and the request for a receiver. In the meantime, he gave Anderson and the lawyer for Erie Rise, Zainab Shields, of Philadelphia, 24 hours to provide the school district a timeline of dissolution of the former charter school. Anderson and Shields said they would comply. Contact Ed Palattella at epalattella@timesnews.com. Follow him on X @ETNpalattella. This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Testimony reveals focus of feds' search of Erie Rise charter school As rents around Los Angeles and other parts of the country have dropped or stabilized, prices in Orange County have gone in the the opposite direction. (Mario Tama / Getty Images) While rents in Los Angeles and many other parts of the U.S. have dropped or stabilized in recent years, Orange County tenants have seen no such relief, with rents that have either spiked or held firm since the start of the pandemic. The changes reflect a national trend, according to experts. Demand for housing in urban centers including Los Angeles dropped as people flocked to suburbs such as Orange County's after the pandemic struck because many office staffers were allowed to work remotely. Los Angeles County cities including Burbank, Long Beach, L.A., Santa Monica and West Hollywood have recorded median rent prices that are 3% to 5% lower than they were this time last year, according to data from the rental site ApartmentList.com. But prices are moving in the opposite direction in Orange County. Overall rents in L.A. County are down 2.6% over last year, while Orange County prices are up 2.2%, according to Apartment List. As rents in the U.S. are down 1% overall from last year, "denser urban areas have seen much slower rent growth," and rentals in outlying and suburban areas have "sustained a pretty strong upwelling of demand" since the COVID-19 pandemic began, said Rob Warnock, a researcher at Apartment List. But since the pandemic started, rents have fluctuated in L.A. County, dropping 7% in 2020 only to rebound 15% in 2021, and then rising modestly in 2022 before dropping in 2023. In Orange County, prices never dropped not even in 2020, though they remained flat. In 2021, they skyrocketed 22% before leveling out in 2022 and increasing modestly in 2023, according to Apartment List. Maria Alejandra Barboza, a community tenant counselor in Anaheim and Santa Ana, said that her friends and neighbors are being squeezed by the increases. Barboza, 56, sees rents continuing to dominate people's budgets as salaries fail to keep up. In Anaheim, the median rent for a one-bedroom unit was nearly $2,000 in February, according to data from Apartment List. That was up 1.2% from the same month last year. In Santa Ana, rents were comparable, and up 1.6% over a year ago. When Barboza recently visited a friend's home, she was impressed by new kitchen cabinets. Her friend explained that the cabinets were part of a renovation triggered by the sale of her building. The new owner made the family move out for a month while continuing to pay rent, according to Barboza. "They were not given any compensation," she said. Upon returning after a month away, the family found their rent had increased from $1,460 to $3,200 more than doubling. She heard similar stories from others who had already been forced out of the building by higher rents. "We continually see the displacement of entire families," Barboza said, adding that stories of housing loss are a constant in her community. Read more: Southern California home prices rise in February, near a record California has always had high demand for housing in major cities, said Hanna Grichanik, a financial advisor in Los Angeles. Her clients are seeing rent increases slow down, though not disappear entirely, she said. "L.A.'s always been a very inflated market, and it could be that other places are catching up" as density increases elsewhere, she theorized. Santa Clarita is a notable outlier in Los Angeles County, with the median one-bedroom apartment renting for just over $2,000 and prices up almost 4% over last February. Grichanik tells her clients that there is "room to negotiate with your landlords," who "don't want to have turnover that's costly for them." She acknowledges that the typical goal of allocating 30% of income to rent "probably works in Nebraska, New Mexico, but it's very hard for people in California." Back in Orange County, advocates seek to protect tenants however they can as prices go up. David Levy, a housing specialist at the Fair Housing Council of Orange County, praised Californias Tenant Protection Act of 2019, which requires just cause to terminate a rental agreement. Causes include failure to pay, breach of terms, nuisances and criminal activities. The law also caps rent increases for certain tenants at 10%, or at 5% above the annual change in cost of living, whichever is lower. But Levy believes lawmakers can do more to protect tenants. Santa Ana is the only city in Orange County with its own rent-control law, he said, so most cities rely on the statewide rules. Since the end of August, landlords in Los Angeles and Orange counties have been capped at 8.8% rent increases annually in applicable units. While he appreciates the cap, "even an 8.8% increase is a hard hit for some people," Levy said. Barboza, the community tenant counselor, continues to press legislators for a solution and to help those around her. "Many people in the community do not know what their rights are and how to defend them, in the face of frequent abuse," she said. Barboza has heard countless stories of lives disrupted by the lack of affordable housing in Orange County. When rent gets too high for them, she said, people are not only forced to leave their homes, but "children have to leave their schools" and "parents are separated from their source of income." In Barboza's community, she said, "the greed of a few negatively impacts the lives of many." Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Rep. Elise Stefanik, a Republican from upstate New York who is being floated as a possible vice presidential pick for Donald Trump, said Thursday she would not have certified votes on Jan. 6 if she was in Vice President Mike Pence's position. I dont think that was the right approach, said Stefanik to CNNs Kaitlan Collin. I think it is very important that we continue to stand up for the constitution and have legal and secure elections, which we did not have in 2020. The 39-year-old congresswoman has risen to prominence among the right flanks of the Republican party, in part due to her vocal support for Trump, denying 2020 election results and grilling leaders of top universities over antisemitism on college campuses. Stefanik and fellow inflammatory Trump-loyalist Rep. Matt Gaetz introduced a resolution Tuesday declaring Trump did not engage in insurrection or rebellion against the United States. Id be honored to serve in a future Trump administration in any way, but Im focused on making sure that we are supporting him, to making sure hes in the strongest position to win this November, she told reporters at a rally in New Hampshire last month. Her recent interview underlines the persistence of false Republican claims that the 2020 election was rigged, which remains a popularly held belief among many Republican voters. A January USA TODAY/Suffolk University Poll found that 52% of Trump supporters said they had no confidence the 2024 elections will be accurately counted and reported. In contrast, 81% of supporters of Biden were very confident about this years election returns. More: Ahead of Jan. 6, poll flashes warning signs about 2024 election aftermath Considered a moderate when she was first elected in 2015, Stefanik solidified her position as a Trump acolyte in recent years, joining the former president's 2021 impeachment defense team and serving as a New York Co-Chair of Trumps 2020 re-election campaign. A Harvard graduate and native of upstate New York, Stefanik launched her political career when she joined former President George W. Bushs White House, working in policy. This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Rep. Elise Stefanik wouldn't have certified election votes on Jan. 6 GOP Rep. Matt Rosendale announced Friday that he had filed for Senate in Montana, setting up a contentious primary against national Republicans preferred pick to take on vulnerable Democratic Sen. Jon Tester. Rosendale, a member of the hard-line House Freedom Caucus who lost to Tester in 2018, will be up against retired Navy SEAL Tim Sheehy, who announced his campaign in June and already has the backing of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, led by Montanas junior senator, Steve Daines. Rosendales candidacy also goes against the wishes of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, who is supporting Sheehy in a race seen as critical to Republicans efforts to flip the chamber. Weve made great accomplishments in the House, only to see them die at the hands of Mitch McConnell and Chuck Schumer in the Senate, Rosendale said on social media Friday as he officially announced his run. Hours later, former President Donald Trump dealt a blow to Rosendales nascent campaign by endorsing Sheehy, whom he praised as an American Hero and highly successful Businessman. I also respect Matt Rosendale, and was very happy to Endorse him in the past - and will Endorse him again in the future should he decide to change course and run for his Congressional Seat, Trump wrote on social media. But in this instance, Tim is the candidate who is currently best-positioned to DEFEAT Lazy Jon Tester, and Regain the Republican Majority in the United States Senate. Rosendale downplayed not receiving the former presidents endorsement, telling CNNs Abby Phillip Friday night that Trump did an incredible job when he was president, and hes going to do an incredible job next year when he takes the oval office. And I plan to be in the United States Senate next year to help him get that agenda through. I will go ahead and win this primary election. Im endorsed by people across the state that know me the best, he said on NewsNight. Both Sheehy and Rosendale have endorsed Trumps presidential run. The Montana contest will be a test for national GOP leaders, who are taking a more active role in primaries this cycle than in the past, when flawed nominees have sometimes cost them seats. Daines on Friday hit Rosendale for jumping into the primary, fueling concerns about the partys ability to flip the seat in November. Its unfortunate that rather than building seniority for our great state in the House, Matt is choosing to abandon his seat and create a divisive primary, Daines said in a statement, while reiterating his support for Sheehy. Whichever party wins the Montana Senate seat will control the United States Senate in 2024, and Republicans cannot risk nominating a candidate who gave Jon Tester the biggest victory of his career, he continued. First elected to the US House in 2020, Rosendale has been a thorn in the side of GOP leadership. He was one of the eight House Republicans in October who voted to oust Kevin McCarthy as speaker. He also initially opposed McCarthys speakership bid in January 2023, before ultimately voting present to allow McCarthy to clinch the gavel on the 15th ballot. The current House speaker, Mike Johnson, informed several Republicans on Thursday that he would not be endorsing Rosendale for Senate. The move came after reports that he was preparing to back his House colleague prompted swift blowback for Johnson. Rosendale backed Johnson for speaker last fall. Tester is one of the most vulnerable Democrats up for reelection in 2024 as he runs for a fourth term in the red state. His campaign has been on the Montana airwaves with positive bio ads, reminding voters of his farming background and his commitment to public lands, Second Amendment rights and defending Montanans way of life. According to his most recent filings, Tester ended December with more than $11 million in cash on hand. By contrast, Sheehy ended the year with more than $1.2 million in the bank. Rosendale had nearly $1.7 million banked in his House campaign account as of December 31. He would be able to transfer those funds for use in his Senate bid. Rosendale previously served in the Montana Legislature and as state auditor. He moved to Montana in 2002, and the former land developers Maryland roots were a frequent target of Democratic attacks in his 2018 Senate race against Tester, which the incumbent won by less than 4 points. CORRECTION: This story has been updated to reflect that Sen. Steve Daines is Montanas junior senator. It was also updated with additional information. CNNs Melanie Zanona and Kate Sullivan contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Fourteen years after weight and lane limits were imposed on the East Anderson Street/Cedar Lane Bridge connecting Hackensack and Teaneck over the Hackensack River, construction of its replacement has finally entered the public information stage. During the construction of the new bridge, traffic will be restricted to one lane in each direction, which is nothing new for area motorists. When the Anderson Street Bridge was determined to be structurally deficient in 2012, concrete barriers were brought in and used to block outside lanes, reducing it to one lane in each direction. At the same time, Bergen County officials placed a 15-ton weight limit on the bridge because of its poor condition, causing NJ Transit buses to be rerouted to Route 4 to cross the river. A public information meeting will be broadcast on Feb. 22 from 6 to 8 p.m. to discuss the preliminary engineering phase of the estimated $40 million replacement of the 1971 bridge. The 302-foot-long East Anderson Street/Cedar Lane Bridge connects Bergen County's two most-populated municipalities, Hackensack on the west (left), and Teaneck on the east (right). Bergen County officials will jointly host the meeting with representatives of the state Transportation Department, the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority and the Federal Highway Administration. The bridge will be replaced using a staged construction sequence, said Derek Sands, deputy chief of staff to Bergen County Executive James Tedesco. The stages include: Stage 1 : One lane of traffic will be maintained in each direction as a portion of the existing structure heading east toward Teaneck is demolished and rebuilt. Stage 2: One lane of traffic will be maintained in each direction on the newly rebuilt structure as the remaining portion of the existing structure is demolished and rebuilt. "Pedestrian access across the bridge will be maintained during construction," Sands said. "In general, the intent is to have one lane of traffic in each direction maintained for the duration of construction as much as possible." The traffic on Anderson Street Bridge ( which connects Teaneck and Hackensack) has had two lanes closed to traffic since September 2012, photographed on 02/11/19. The photog looks toward Hackensack. No exact start date has been set, nor how long the project will last, Sands said, because those time frames depend on the design. Resolutions of support for the project were passed by Teaneck and Hackensack officials in November 2019. Authorities held two meetings with local officials in June 2022 and early 2023. A community stakeholders meeting was held in April 2023. Teaneck Township Manager Dean Kazinci described the bridge connecting Teaneck to Hackensack just east of the old Sears building as "a major artery connecting both jurisdictions." "We are slowly inching forward with preparing finalized plans and continuously seek public input," Kazinci said. "Possibly some type of groundbreaking in 2025-ish? The new design and infrastructure will significantly improve vehicular travel and the safety of pedestrians/bicyclists crossing the bridge." Looking west from Teaneck to Hackensack, the outer lanes of the East Anderson Street/Cedar Lane bridge were closed to traffic in 2012, and a 15-ton weight limiit was imposed. Kazinci said that although the goal is to avoid closing the bridge at all during construction, "there may be times when closure, in its entirety, is unavoidable." "As we understand the temporary inconvenience this may cause to area residents, the bigger picture is a modern bridge with significant improvements that will last for many decades," Kazinci said. Hackensack Mayor John Labrosse and City Manager Vincent Caruso did not respond to a request for comment. Joe Romano, owner of S&J Shoe Repair on Anderson Street in Hackensack, said he expected "not much" impact on his business from the construction. "Years ago they closed the bridge for something, and people just went around to the next bridge," Romano said Thursday. The bridge is the northernmost of three local bridges crossing the Hackensack between Route 4 and Route 80, which is 2 miles to the south. Closing the bridge would require drivers to take a 2-mile detour north to Route 4 and back, or south to the Salem Street/West Main Street Bridge and back. INFRASTRUCTURE BOOST Hackensack bridge, in 'poor' condition for years, will be fixed as part of $1B state plan The bridge is being financed in part through New Jersey's $12 billion federal infrastructure bill. The meeting will be held online via Microsoft Teams at tinyurl.com/EAB-PIC-Meeting. Call to listen in on audio only at 412-634-6334, Phone Conference ID: 506 340 76. A meeting transcript can be obtained by calling Joseph Baladi at 201-336-6446 or emailing a request to eastandersonbridgeproject@gmail.com no later than Feb. 20. Written comments will be accepted through March 28 at: Joseph Baladi, P.E., P.P., C.M.E. Division Head Planning (Bergen County Project Manager), One Bergen County Plaza, 4th Floor, Hackensack, NJ 07601, or by fax at 201-336-6449 or email at eastandersonbridgeproject@gmail.com. For more information on the project, visit Bergen County's webpage: eastandersonbridge.com. This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Replacement of Anderson Street Bridge is topic of upcoming meeting Gov. Ned Lamont speaks in the state House chamber at the state Capitol in Hartford, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The state legislature convened its 13-week session on Wednesday. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media Gov. Ned Lamont speaks on the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly session, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media Gov. Ned Lamont speaks on the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly session, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media Gov. Ned Lamont speaks on the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly session, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media Gov. Ned Lamont speaks on the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly session, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media Gov. Ned Lamont speaks on the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly session, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media Gov. Ned Lamont speaks on the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly session, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media Gov. Ned Lamont speaks on the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly session, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media Gov. Ned Lamont speaks on the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly session, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media Gov. Ned Lamont speaks on the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly session, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media Gov. Ned Lamont speaks on the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly session, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media A small group on protesters stand outside the State Capitol building on the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly session, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media Speaker of the House Matt Ritter applauds in the state House chamber at the state Capitol in Hartford, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The state legislature convened its 13-week session on Wednesday. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media Speaker of the House Matt Ritter applauds in the state House chamber at the state Capitol in Hartford, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The state legislature convened its 13-week session on Wednesday. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media State Rep. Jaime Foster speaks in the state House chamber at the state Capitol in Hartford, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The state legislature convened its 13-week session on Wednesday. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media State Rep. Bob Godfrey speaks in the state House chamber at the state Capitol in Hartford, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The state legislature convened its 13-week session on Wednesday. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media State Rep. Craig Fishbein confers in the state House chamber at the state Capitol in Hartford, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The state legislature convened its 13-week session on Wednesday. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media State Rep. Michael Quinn applauds in the state House chamber at the state Capitol in Hartford, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The state legislature convened its 13-week session on Wednesday. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media State Rep. Travis Simms speaks in the state House chamber at the state Capitol in Hartford, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The state legislature convened its 13-week session on Wednesday. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media State Sen. Paul Cicarello stands at his seat in the state House chamber at the state Capitol in Hartford, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The state legislature convened its 13-week session on Wednesday. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media State Representatives share in a smile in the state House chamber at the state Capitol in Hartford, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The state legislature convened its 13-week session on Wednesday. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media State Rep. Hilda Santiago sits at her seat in the state House chamber at the state Capitol in Hartford, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The state legislature convened its 13-week session on Wednesday. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media State Rep. Anthony Nolan speaks in the state House chamber at the state Capitol in Hartford, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The state legislature convened its 13-week session on Wednesday. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media House Majority Leader Rep. Jason Rojas speaks in the state House chamber at the state Capitol in Hartford, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The state legislature convened its 13-week session on Wednesday. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media State Rep. Kevin Ryan is recognized in the state House chamber at the state Capitol in Hartford, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The state legislature convened its 13-week session on Wednesday. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media House Minority Leader Rep. Vince Candelora speaks in the state House chamber at the state Capitol in Hartford, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The state legislature convened its 13-week session on Wednesday. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media House Minority Leader Rep. Vince Candelora speaks in the state House chamber at the state Capitol in Hartford, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The state legislature convened its 13-week session on Wednesday. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media State Rep. John-Michael Parker holds 11-month-old son Charlie in the state House chamber at the state Capitol in Hartford, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The state legislature convened its 13-week session on Wednesday. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media Speaker of the House Matt Ritter, left, greets House Majority Leader Rep. Jason Rojas in the state House chamber at the state Capitol in Hartford, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The state legislature convened its 13-week session on Wednesday. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media Speaker of the House Matt Ritter speaks in the state House chamber at the state Capitol in Hartford, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The state legislature convened its 13-week session on Wednesday. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media Speaker of the House Matt Ritter speaks in the state House chamber at the state Capitol in Hartford, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The state legislature convened its 13-week session on Wednesday. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media Speaker of the House Matt Ritter speaks in the state House chamber at the state Capitol in Hartford, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The state legislature convened its 13-week session on Wednesday. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media Gov. Ned Lamont speaks in the state House chamber at the state Capitol in Hartford, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The state legislature convened its 13-week session on Wednesday. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media State Rep. Ben McGorty (R Shelton) speaks during the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media State Rep. Joe Gresko (D Stratford) speaks during the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media State Sen. Patricia Billie Miller (D Stamford) attends the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media State Rep. Travis Simms (D Norwalk) speaks during the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media State Rep. Bob Godfrey (D Danbury) speaks during the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media State Rep. Antonio Felipe (D Bridgeport) speaks on the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media State Seb. Bob Duff (D Norwalk) speaks during opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media State Sen. Paul Cicarella (R - North Haven) attends the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz speaks speks during opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media State Rep. Bill Hefferman (D West Haven) attends the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media State Rep. Christopher Rosario (D Bridgeport) attends the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media State Rep. Maria Horn (D Salisbury) attends the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D - New Haven) attends the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media State Sen. Tony Hwang (R Fairfield) attends the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media State Rep. John-Michael Parker (D Madison) holds his son, Charlie, as he speaks during opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media Majority leader Jason Rojas (D - East Hartford) speaks during the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media Minority leader Vincent Candelora (R - North Branford) attends the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media House speaker Matt Ritter (D - Hartford) speaks on the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media State Sen. Heron Gaston (D Bridgeport) speaks during the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media HARTFORD Gov. Ned Lamont on Wednesday kicked off the short, 13-week session of the General Assembly, proposing budget adjustments that would juggle current levels of state spending and invest more money in housing and early childhood education, while using a few million dollars in federal pandemic relief to help residents pay off as much as $650 million in medical debt. We have too many people who cannot find a place to live, Lamont said in a 33-minute speech before a joint session of the House and Senate. The budget he offered would include a doubling of state funding for a variety of housing opportunities aimed at allowing people to move to the state, where an estimated 90,000 jobs are open. He pointed to developments in Meriden and New London. Meriden is a great case in point, he said. What was once a bankrupt shopping center and empty parking lot is now a beautiful park with 250 new units of housing. Downtown New London has seen more new housing in the last four years than the previous 14 years combined. Advertisement Article continues below this ad About six minutes into the address, Lamont was briefly interrupted when several pro-Palestinian demonstrators stood started chanting Cease Fire Now from the gallery above the House of Representatives. They were removed by a heavy police presence that had been on alert all day in the 14-acre Capitol complex, including the adjacent Legislative Office Building where most legislative committees will meet while advancing hundreds of bills that have a midnight May 8 deadline for action. As Lamont began speaking shortly after noon, protesters outside the House chamber began chanting on the Capitols second floor and unfurled pro-Palestinian banners inside the East atrium above the statue of State Hero Nathan Hale. Initial reports on arrests were unavailable, but Capitol Police had vans in the Capitol parking lot during the day in preparation for potential arrests. After police escorted protesters from the House Gallery, Lamont, who had stopped his speech, called the interruption a disservice, rude and disrespectful. A protester attempts to hang a banner but is stopped by police in the balcony of the state House chamber at the state Capitol in Hartford, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The state legislature convened its 13-week session on Wednesday. The protester disrupted Gov. Ned Lamont during his State of the State address. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media Now, back to our regularly scheduled programming, he said as the 151 House members and 36 senators, along with invested guests including former speakers of the House, applauded him. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Jeffrey Beckham, who as secretary of the Office of Policy and Management is Lamonts budget chief, told reporters on Wednesday morning that the overall proposed adjustments include more than $199 million in estimated unspent savings that would be redistributed. The plans includes an extra $20 million for early childhood initiatives that would be enhanced by another about $19 million in federal pandemic relief. The governors budget would include $2.9 million for the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services to attack chronic homelessness for the mentally ill; $1.3 million for additional social services and create more supportive housing units; and $1.2 million to fund an additional 12 positions in the homeless outreach program. While the current budget, which expires on June 30, has a projected surplus of about $11.8 million, Lamonts proposal would have only $1.1 million in surplus. The governors proposed $26 billion spending package would take effect on July 1, but the Democratic-dominated House and Senate will have months of review and negotiations before the legislative deadline. In recent days progressive Democrats led by Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney, D-New Haven, have talked about possibly raising levels of state spending beyond the 2017 fiscal guidelines that were reinforced by lawmakers last year. Gov. Ned Lamont speaks in the state House chamber at the state Capitol in Hartford, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The state legislature convened its 13-week session on Wednesday. DAVE ZAJAC/Hearst Connecticut Media After the speech, Speaker of the House Matt Ritter, D-Hartford, said his team is currently planning $300-to-$400 million more in spending than the governor, a gap he doesnt view as insurmountable even under the so-called fiscal guardrails that lawmakers last year overwhelming extended for five years. Among other things, the spending caps require surpluses to be invested in the states under-funded teacher and state employee pensions. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Ritter said the legislature will likely object to Lamonts plan to redirect tens of millions of dollars earmarked for K-12 education to other parts of the budget. I dont see broad support to repurpose that money, Ritter said. I think our goal is to fund what we passed last year. There are probably some investments we could make that are just as good as paying down our long-term debt, just as good as paying pensions, he said, citing child care as one area that could use more funding. Senate Pro Tempore Martin Looney, D-New Haven, went further, reiterating his proposal to tweak the guardrails to fund higher education, early childhood programs and more. The governor reflected why Connecticut is perceived as being on the upswing, but there are certain areas I think we need to address even to a greater extent, Looney said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The governors budget was largely welcomed by House Minority Leader Vincent Candelora, R-North Branford, with the caveat that it included several line-items including more than $3.2 billion in Medicaid funding that have long been a source of griping for conservatives. I think his approach was correct, Candelora said. I think hes trying to adjust some spending priorities and I dont disagree with that." Candelora, also took the governors side in the brewing battle over the continuation of fiscal constraints, which Republicans want to see made permanent through a constitutional amendment. I think it was shortsighted on the Democrats part, and disingenuous, to vote to renew these guardrails and then talk about a year later undoing them, Candelora said. State Sen. Tony Hwang, R- Fairfield, criticized the increasing cost of labor agreements with state workers, which he said had led the state to deprioritize other critical needs such as funding for mental health care and transportation. Lawmakers, including Republicans, may look to add increased funding levels for those priorities over the next three months. It has always been a beginning point of the conversation, Hwang said of Lamonts plan. Advertisement Article continues below this ad During a speech that won applause from Democrats and no reaction from Republican when Lamont recommitted to helping the state cope with global climate change, Lamont thanked and name-checked various other state officials in the audience, including state commissioners, Attorney General William Tong, the first newborn to be registered for the states Baby Bonds program, and even international superstar Beyonce. Admitting he is not up to date on the frontiers of social media, the 70-year-old governor said he will propose that school children surrender their smart phones upon arrival in school every morning, pointing to an occasional Beyonce pre-concert requirement. Increasingly kids on the smart phones are tuning out each other, tuning out learning and tuning into unfiltered images which can be fun or disturbing, he said. Some of the severe anxiety and aberrant behavior can be traced back to social media. China limits TikTok for children to one hour a day, and Beyonce makes you leave your smartphone in a Yondr pouch before her events. We will be sending out guidance to your school board pretty soon. Have your younger students leave their smartphones at home or drop them in a Yondr pouch at the start of the school day. Social media is often anti-social and I think too much smart phone makes you stupid. So I want you to start your day listening to our teacher and playing with your friends, not your phone. The proposed smart phone initiative was a surprise to House Majority Leader Jason Rojas. I think its more of an aspiration than a policy proposal, Rojas said. Hes not wrong, but there are some practical limitations. I have two high schoolers, and it helps to be able to stay in contact with them now and then. Would I prefer they not have phones in the classroom? Absolutely. But I dont know where the sweet spot in for that. The man behind the conservative effort to move the judiciary to the right has ties to many of the groups and people arguing that Donald Trump should stay on the ballot in a case heard before the US supreme court this week. Leonard Leos advocacy and financial network played a major role in Trumps judicial nominations and confirmation hearings as part of his years-long push to make the courts more friendly to conservatives and their causes. Justice Clarence Thomas once joked that Leo was the No 3 most powerful person in the world. Related: US ethics groups hail Senate subpoenas for Leonard Leo and Harlan Crow Leo is the co-chairman of the Federalist Society, a conservative legal organization that counts five of the current nine justices as current or former members. He also heads a well-funded financial network that works to advance rightwing causes, having received a massive $1.6bn donation to boost his work. His maneuvers have been part of the recent scandals at the supreme court, including a payment he directed to be paid to Thomass wife, Ginni, the Washington Post reported in 2023. Through this extensive network, he is tied to several of the filers of amicus briefs in the 14th amendment case that could prevent Trump from running for re-election. In those briefs, a variety of conservative groups argue against Trumps removal, aligning with Trumps arguments that he should remain on the ballot. The consequential case has brought in amicus briefs on both sides from outside groups, historians, law professors and elected officials, whove parsed through legal language and the implications of removing a presidential candidate from the running. According to research by Accountable.US, a non-profit that focuses on calling attention to special interests in US politics, Leo has ties including professional associations, funding through his own groups or those hes exchanged money with, and allies in the Federalist Society to a handful of groups that filed amicus briefs against Trumps removal. The ties are part of a pattern, documented by Politico, of Leo himself and his network being connected to amicus briefs in high-profile supreme court cases in recent years. The Politico review also found multiple instances of language used in the amicus briefs appearing in the courts opinions. In this instance, Accountable.US found ties between Leo and the following groups or their lawyers that filed amicus briefs in the 14th amendment case: Citizens United, the Public Interest Legal Foundation, the Claremont Institute, Landmark Legal Foundation, Judicial Watch, Jones Day, Wyomings secretary of state Chuck Gray and Americas Future. Related: Democrats plan to subpoena Leonard Leo over perks to supreme court justices Citizens United, a conservative group whose name is synonymous with the 2010 supreme court ruling that allows unlimited political spending by outside groups and corporations, filed a brief alongside Steven Calabresi, Leos fellow co-chair of the Federalist Society. Other lawyers tied to the society are signed on to the groups brief as well. The Public Interest Legal Foundations brief is co-filed with a man who has been featured in more than 100 Federalist Society events, and the group has received funding from groups tied to Leo. The Claremont Institute has also received funds from groups tied to Leos funding network, and the briefs author wrote a book that includes a quote from Leo on the back cover and featured in society events. Leo has complimented the chairman of the Landmark Legal Foundation as a great patriot and our old Federalist Society stalwart. The Judicial Watch president is also president of the Council for National Policy, which Leo has reportedly been involved with. Jones Day, a conservative law firm whose attorneys authored an amicus brief for the National Republican Senatorial Committee, has given money to the Federalist Society, and the firm is where Leo, Trump and others met to come up with a list of supreme court candidates. The lawyers who filed Wyoming secretary of state Grays brief include a Federalist Society contributor whos received a fellowship from the group. Americas Future has gotten funding from a group thats exchanged millions with Leos financial network. Its no surprise that Leonard Leo is backing efforts to support Trump at the supreme court, said Accountable.US president Caroline Ciccone. Leo helped Trump draw up his supreme court nominee shortlist many of whom are justices on the bench set to hear this critical case and now, Leos deploying his rightwing network in support of Trump as he faces consequences for his violent insurrection. It couldnt be clearer where Leo stands. Xi says China ready to work with Russia for more just global governance system Xinhua) 10:01, February 09, 2024 BEIJING, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- China stands ready to work with Russia to make the global governance system more just and reasonable, Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Thursday. China is also ready to strengthen international multilateral coordination with Russia, practice the true multilateralism, and advocate an equal and orderly multipolar world and economic globalization that benefits all, so as to make positive contributions to building a community with a shared future for mankind. Xi made the remarks in a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin ahead of the Chinese New Year. 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Lea Suzuki/The Chronicle Tetet Naval, a Filipina San Franciscan, was waiting for the bus along Market Street in June when she felt something strike her in the back. Startled, she turned to see a man with a stick in hand. He yelled at her, Go back to your country, she recalled. Terrified he would do something worse, she ran. Before, I was very confident walking around because I know this place, Naval told the Chronicle inside San Francisco City Hall on Thursday, where dozens of people from the Asian and Pacific Islander communities rallied against targeted violence. Now Im more scared. About 80 AAPI community members gathered on the steps of City Hall ahead of a hearing held by the Board of Supervisors Public Safety and Neighborhood Services Committee on the state of crime and violence targeting Asian American seniors. Advertisement Article continues below this ad People hold signs supporting the Asian and Pacific Islander communities and protesting anti-AAPI bigotry during a rally Thursday outside San Francisco City Hall. A public safety hearing on hate crimes followed. Lea Suzuki/The Chronicle In the post-pandemic era, many older residents still dont feel safe, even though reported hate crimes targeting Asian people are down from their 2021 peak. San Francisco police investigated 14 incidents that it believed merited anti-Asian hate crime charges in 2023, police Sgt. Jamie Hyun of the Special Investigations Division said at the hearing. By comparison, there were six such incidents in 2022, 60 in 2021 and 10 in 2020. Hyun said that one person was responsible for 40 to 45 of the 2021 incidents and that one person was responsible for about half of the incidents in 2023. Of the 41 hate crime cases pending in the district attorneys office, 25 are race-based crimes and 13 are anti-Asian hate crimes, said Nancy Tung, chief of the Vulnerable Victims Unit. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Hyun noted that the law defines hate crimes as crimes motivated by bigotry. The legal definition does not include acts of bigotry that may be protected by the First Amendment, like racist or xenophobic speech. As such, advocates say, hate crimes can catalog the most extreme forms of targeted hostility, but be a poor metric for understanding community anxiety or measuring the full spectrum of bigotry experienced by the community. San Francisco supervisors Catherine Stefani, Matt Dorsey and Connie Chan listen to Joyce Lam, back to camera, political director of the Chinese Progressive Association, during a City Hall hearing Thursday on crime and violence targeting Asian American seniors. Lea Suzuki/The Chronicle Im not saying hate crimes arent important to track and understand, but it paints a very tiny picture of overall harm that occurs thats impacting the Asian American community, said Janice Li, director of the Coalition for Community Safety and Justice, formed in 2019 from four nonprofits to address public safety concerns in the AAPI community. The coalitions team of rapid-response advocates provided services to 73 AAPI residents in 2023. Most were victims of property crimes, she said, like home break-ins without an obvious racial motive. Those who experienced harassment in public spaces would also not be considered victims of hate crimes, added Annie Lee, policy director at nonprofit Chinese for Affirmative Action,another coalition member. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Sarah Wan, executive director of Community Youth Center, which belongs to the coalition, said she hopes the city continues funding the coalitions culturally sensitive victim services programs. The coalition receives about $1 million in city funding, according to Chan. Were not trying to replace public safety and law enforcement; we want to work hand in hand with them, Wan said. At a rally Thursday outside City Hall, Anni Chung, president and CEO of Self-Help for the Elderly, said her clients say they dont always feel safe in San Francisco. Lea Suzuki/The Chronicle Anni Chung, president and CEO for Self-Help for the Elderly, underscored the importance of bilingual police officers to help monolingual older residents report incidents. Our statistics show there were many hate incidents but not many prosecuted, Chung said, which is why our seniors are not feeling very safe. Retiree Sally Chen, 70, said she doesnt dare leave her home, a senior housing apartment in the Tenderloin, after 5 p.m. She finds her neighborhood too dangerous after dark, she told the Chronicle in Mandarin. Advertisement Article continues below this ad But the solutions to fear and racial discrimination, she thinks, lie in compassion and empathy for people of other racial backgrounds. She attended an anti-racism workshop organized by the Chinese Progressive Association, an nonprofit advocacy group for lower-income Chinese immigrants. The restorative justice program has trained about 70 people on the root causes of interpersonal conflict. A rendered, aerial view of the planned Baylands development on the San Francisco-Brisbane border. For the past year, cities throughout California have grown accustomed to bad news from the state agency charged with enforcing an ever-growing list of laws aimed at increasing housing production. But this week the small San Mateo County city of Brisbane actually got some good news from the California Department of Housing and Community Development, known as HCD. S.F. Bay Area property map: Heres who owns every building in the region Advertisement Article continues below this ad The agency ruled that Brisbane, which has fewer than 5,000 residents, did not violate state housing element laws by missing a deadline related to the massive redevelopment of the Baylands, the 660-acre railyard and former landfill planned for 4,000 housing units. Two pro-housing groups filed a complaint over the delay, but after an investigation, HCD sided with the city, not the YIMBYs, an unusual turn of events. HCD had required that Brisbane include a detailed timeline of when project milestones would be completed because the project is expected to deliver 90% of the homes mandated by the state in the next 8 years. That timeline said the city would publish an environmental study by October, but the city failed to do so. But HCD determined that the city still has time to publish an environmental study on the project. While the city missed the October milestone it has until January of 2026 to complete all the approvals and changes needed to make the Baylands a reality, HDC said. The decision comes at a time when 38% of the states more than 500 cities and counties are out of compliance with state housing element law, according to advocacy group YIMBY Law. Being out of compliance exposes cities to builders remedy projects, where housing developers can bypass local approval processes which are often lengthy and politically fraught and quickly receive building permits. The groups that called for the inquiry, the Bay Area Council and the Peninsula and South Bay chapter of the Housing Action Coalition, said they remain concerned about the potential impact of these delays on our community and on the availability of affordable housing. We firmly believe in the importance and urgency of the Baylands project and are eager to see it move forward without further delay, the groups stated in a letter to HCD. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The groups said that the October deadline for publishing the environmental report was important given the history of the delays the city of Brisbane has imposed on the project and that the project is the only one in the city thats big enough to deliver the number of units mandated by the state. The controversial project has been in the works since 2005 when the property owner filed the first of several redevelopment plans. Brisbane officials told HCD that the environmental report would be published in spring in the year with the final report voted on in 2025. The two organizations requested that HCD produce a revised specific timeline that Brisbane would be held to. The Baylands project represents 90% of the housing Brisbane is on the hook for by 2031 in its housing element, which requires the city to permit 1,588 units by 2031, of which 803 are supposed to be affordable to low- and moderate-income households. The Baylands project, slated to start construction next year, is located on both sides of the San Francisco/Brisbane border. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The developer, Baylands LLC, declined to comment on the HCD decision. In an interview in November, Brisbane City Manager Clay Holstine said he disagreed with the characterization that the city had missed a deadline. A tent encampment occupied by pro-Palestinian students at Stanfords White Memorial Plaza on Nov. 10, 2023. The university enacted a new policy banning the encampment on Thursday but students vowed to fight back. Lea Suzuki/The Chronicle Hundreds of pro-Palestinian students gathered Thursday night to push back against Stanford University administrators attempts to break up a protest that has lasted for more than 100 days. Stanford students have hosted a continuous sit-in at Stanfords White Memorial Plaza for months, taking turns sleeping and eating in tents since shortly after Hamas invaded Israel on Oct. 7, killing Israelis and taking hostages. The invasion triggered Israels massive military retaliation, which has killed more than 25,000 Palestinians and flattened much of the Gaza Strip. On Thursday morning, the protesters received a printed letter from university administration informing them they wouldnt be allowed to continue the sit-in past 8 p.m, according to Stanford senior Annabelle Davis. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Based on concerns for the physical safety of our community overnight displays and camping will no longer be permitted, the university wrote. The message said that a disagreement between two other groups of protesters and a recent storm that blew some tents around inspired the crackdown. Students who violate the no-camping policy will be disciplined and may be cited for trespassing, the notice said. In response, the Stanford chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine and its supporters issued a call to action. On Thursday morning, the group called for an emergency rally at the site of the sit-in, urging students to show up for Palestine. By the 8 p.m. deadline, about 400 people had gathered, more than any the site had ever attracted, Davis said. No university staff or police appeared to be there, even well into the night, students reported. The conflict in the Middle East set off tensions at Stanford and at campuses across the country. Two Ivy League presidents, from Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania, resigned their positions after fumbling their testimony before Congress at a hearing called by Republicans about the handling of alleged antisemitism on those campuses and at MIT. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Stanford leaders have fared better, emphasizing a tolerance for diverse voices. The protesters have said their tents will stay until the university meets their demands, including endorsing a cease-fire in Gaza and committing to the boycott, divest and sanction movement, which seeks to sever ties with Israel and has found support on many campuses. Last fall, during the second week of the sit-in, the university threatened disciplinary action unless students dispersed. But administrators reversed their stance after a public outcry, according to sophomore Hana Spahia. Davis said she hoped Thursdays strong turnout would again persuade the administration to let the sit-in continue. David Palumbo-Liu, a professor of comparative literature and frequent Palestinian-rights commentator, lashed out in a letter to interim President Richard Saller and Provost Jenny Martinez. He urged the leaders to take a much different tack, and one that treats the sit-in with the respect, and I would say honor, it has earned. In its announcement, Stanford said it would allow students to protest only between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. The university said overnight camping threatened students safety and cited a recent incident involving two tents belonging to a counter-protesting group one blue and one white, the colors of the Israeli flag. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Unlike the pro-Palestinian tents, which had students around them all the time, the blue and white tents were often empty and blew away in last weekends storms. The university said the flying tents and their metal parts posed a risk to students. A third group of students then moved into the spot registered by the pro-Israel group and posted Stop Islamophobia signs, the university said. Taking the space another group was using for free speech and preventing them from re-establishing their presence HAS escalated the risk of conflict in White Plaza and increased the threat to the safety of members of our community, Stanford wrote in its Thursday announcement. Spahia called it irresponsible and unforgivable for the university to punish the pro-Palestinian sit-in for incidents that had nothing to do with them. During the storms the students at the sit-in held down their tents and used sandbags to prevent them from flying off and injuring anyone, she said. Weve been here for 112 days, through all of winter break, through Christmas, through New Years, through freak storms and downpours, Davis said. All of a sudden, with no material change to the sit-in or our circumstances, to be told that were posing this imminent threat or that we are under imminent threat to me is a bad-faith move on the part of the university. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Cadets march in formation at the San Francisco Police Departments academy. The department is short hundreds of officers and cant seem to fill the openings. Lea Suzuki/The Chronicle 2015 San Francisco needs more police officers. Full stop. A 2022 analysis found that, to be fully staffed, the San Francisco Police Department needs around 2,100 officers. It currently has 1,559 full-duty officers, according to a department spokesperson. Of those, 300 are near retirement and could leave at any time. Has the San Francisco police been defunded? Advertisement Article continues below this ad No. The departments budget is its highest ever and includes funds to hire hundreds of new officers. It just cant seem to bring in enough recruits. Amid this dearth of hires, San Francisco is spending tens of millions of dollars on overtime. There arent enough personnel to do the job, so were forcing our officers to work double shifts, and paying them exorbitant amounts. The status quo is fiscally irresponsible, and its safe to say San Franciscans also generally want more police on the streets. Proposition B purports to solve this problem. Unfortunately, its an absurdly complicated item that never should have appeared on the ballot. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Heres the backstory: Last fall, Supervisor Matt Dorsey introduced legislation to require minimum police staffing levels and require the city to set aside $30 million to bring the department to full staffing over five years. Supervisor Ahsha Safai then amended Dorseys proposal to insist on a new special tax or a new general tax to pay for the hires. If these unknown taxes did not garner enough for the staffing increases, set-asides from the general fund would be used to cover the difference. Safai argued Dorseys plan was fiscally irresponsible while the city was in a historic budget deficit. Forcing handcuffs on the budget process meant lawmakers might not have the flexibility to fund 911 operators, nurses or any of the other understaffed jobs the city desperately needs. If you want to spend more on police, you have to find a way to pay for it. Dorsey responded by pulling his support for the measure. Advertisement Article continues below this ad With no resolution in sight, six of the 11 supervisors decided to send Safais version to the voters. Proposition B is the result. We agree with Safais basic premise that set-asides are fundamentally bad, even for things residents say they want, like more police. Its the job of supervisors and the mayor to negotiate and set budget priorities. But were not sold on the idea that a convoluted, yet-to-be-determined tax is the answer, either. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The garbled fight over Prop. B has distracted from the real issues with police recruitment, of which money is only a part. We dont need a ballot measure or special tax to streamline the hiring process, which is woefully broken. It can take close to a year to hire a new officer because of unnecessary red tape. San Francisco has a budget of only $250,000 for police recruiting, which the mayor could easily expand as part of the normal budget process. Other incentives are less obvious but could be effective. To become an officer, every recruit must go through the states Peace Officer Standards and Training standards for driving. But, according to Dorsey, the city has lost any number of promising recruits who grew up in San Francisco without a car. Driving lessons for police recruits could potentially help hire local officers who already live here and have knowledge of the communities theyd be patrolling. Nothing is meaningfully standing in the way of increasing our police force except our public officials efforts and competence. We need an action plan to improve hiring, not vague ideas to throw more money at the problem. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Proposition 1 may make worse the problem it purports to address homelessness among people with behavioral health conditions. Olivier Douliery/AFP/Getty Images 2021 Regarding Its a crisis: Chronic hoarding is costing some older people their homes (Health, SFChronicle.com, Feb. 3): Readers who were buoyed by the account of effective services for older adults with hoarding challenges should know that programs such as these are threatened by Proposition 1. Many effective programs that provide recovery-oriented support to Californians with mental health issues often delivered by peers with similar experiences are now funded through the Mental Health Services Act. Prop. 1 would reallocate money from the act to housing and services for the severely mentally ill, placing new mandates on and reducing the proportion of money that flows to counties, with no increase in funding. If Prop. 1 passes, counties likely will be forced to cut programs such as hoarding intervention for older adults. When these programs are cut, the problem Prop. 1 purports to address homelessness among people with behavioral health conditions could get worse. Advertisement Article continues below this ad I urge people to vote no on Prop. 1. Sarah Marxer, San Leandro No comparison Regarding 50 years after Patty Hearsts shocking kidnapping, parallels to the turbulent 70s are everywhere (Bay Area, SFChronicle.com, Feb. 4): Kevin Fagan presented a reductionist view of the political left in the 1970s in comparing it to the right of today. The story focused primarily on several explosive, violent, sensationalized events and presented them as characteristic of a decade and a political movement. The majority of activists in the 70s were demonstrating in response to politically motivated and/or government-sanctioned violence against people working for democracy and peace. Advertisement Article continues below this ad For instance: The 1955-1975 war in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos; the murders of John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy; the Freedom Summer murders; Watergate; Jim Crow laws: Bloody Sunday; Kent State; the CIAs covert operation in Chile to overthrow Salvador Allende and support Augusto Pinochets reign of terror. To characterize the activism of the 70s as parallel to the Jan. 6 insurrection obliterates a critical period of our history when hundreds of thousands of people peacefully protested to demand, defend and protect our democracy. A violent protest to halt the democratic process and peaceful transfer of power to bolster white supremacy and destroy democracy is quite another matter. Heidi Gill, San Francisco Be more civil Regarding American Bar Association sets new free speech rules following Bay Area law school incidents (Politics, SFChronicle.com, Feb. 6): Although I understand the need for civil discourse, the guest speakers cited in this article brought their own baggage of incivility. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Ilya Shapiros tweet about nominating a lesser black woman to the Supreme Court is uncivil, as is Judge Kyle Duncans refusal to address trans people in court by their chosen pronouns. Civility needs to be a two-way street, but here we are putting the burden on the students to be civil to uncivil speakers. Perhaps law schools should choose speakers more carefully, or maybe the American Bar should insist on civility from the conservative legal commentators. The Federalist Society sponsored both of these speakers in question; maybe it should be responsible for sponsoring civil speakers. This is not solely a student problem. It seems hypocritical to compel students to be civil to speakers who themselves are not. Mayor London Breed speaks Thursday at a proposed sober living facility at 935 Kearny St. in San Francisco. Benjamin Fanjoy/The Chronicle Sandwiched between a hair salon and a dim sum restaurant just across Kearny Street from San Franciscos iconic Sentinel Building, the Hotel North Beach doesnt look like much from the outside. But the unassuming 150-unit hotel is poised to become a new and contested front in Mayor London Breeds efforts to show progress on fighting the worsening drug epidemic that caused record overdose deaths in the city last year and has frustrated the public with persistent open-air drug scenes. Breeds administration wants to turn the hotel at 935 Kearny St. into a sober living facility for formerly homeless people this spring. Officials say it will be a novel addition to San Franciscos supply of permanent supportive housing, providing a previously unavailable option for people exiting homelessness who struggle with addiction and want to live in a building thats free of drugs and alcohol. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Those who live in existing city-funded supportive housing, or are leaving temporary housing programs and want to stay sober, will be able to request a transfer to the new site, which must still be approved by the citys Homelessness Oversight Commission. On-site supportive services, including case management, will be designed to help residents stay sober. Residents wont automatically be kicked out if they relapse, but if they return to drinking or using drugs regularly, the city will transfer them to another supportive housing facility that can better help them with their addiction, officials said. A group gathers Thursday ahead of a news conference outside a proposed sober living facility at 935 Kearny St. in San Francisco. Benjamin Fanjoy/The Chronicle For Breed, who is heading into a difficult November reelection campaign, the potential sober housing site is a response to requests from people in recovery who have advocated for more programs that include abstinence from drugs and alcohol. Currently, much of the citys public health and supportive housing infrastructure embraces the model of harm reduction, which seeks to reduce the negative consequences of drug use while allowing people to address their addictions largely at their own pace. Some sobriety advocates have been arguing that San Francisco is too focused on harm reduction and should be expanding its abstinence-focused programs as well. City-funded single-room occupancy hotels have been an epicenter of San Franciscos drug overdose crisis. A Chronicle investigation found that, of about 650 drug deaths in the Tenderloin and Sixth Street corridor from 2019 to 2022, more than 40% were inside residential hotels used to house formerly homeless people. Breed told reporters in the lobby of the hotel Thursday that the sober living facility she wants to open there was intended for people who have struggled with addiction and are in a situation where it is hard to maintain sobriety because of their environment. Advertisement Article continues below this ad We have so much work to do, we know, but I think a project like this could be a game changer, and very transformative and exciting for so many people who deserve a second chance to live a life free and clean and sober in the city and county of San Francisco, Breed said. A room at the proposed sober living facility at 935 Kearny St. Benjamin Fanjoy/The Chronicle But the project is already facing resistance from Edward Siu, the president of the Chinatown Merchants United Association, who said nearby business owners hadnt been properly notified of the citys intentions. The hotel sits on the edge of North Beach and Chinatown, and Siu said the merchants he represents never received any outreach from the city and were unaware of the plans until they learned of Breeds Thursday news conference. Right now, the city is doing (a) one-way street theyre doing the dictator way, Siu told the Chronicle. Siu showed up to Breeds news conference with other concerned residents and asked why the city had not communicated earlier with Chinatown merchants about the project. Breed said the city was just beginning its outreach process. Advertisement Article continues below this ad This is still an ongoing conversation in order to accept feedback and hopefully get to a place where we can all be on the same page, Breed said. Were here to listen, and were here to work with the community. Breed told Siu after the news conference that there was a mistake made and city officials wanted to speak to him about the matter privately. Randy Shaw of the Tenderloin Housing Clinic speaks about the proposed sober living facility. Benjamin Fanjoy/The Chronicle The sober housing site is set to be leased by the Tenderloin Housing Clinic, with a $3.7 million operating budget funded by the city. The hotel currently caters to tourists but also has about 40 people who live there long term and would not be asked to move as part of the facilitys transition, according to Emily Cohen, a spokesperson for the citys Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing. Randy Shaw, executive director of the Tenderloin Housing Clinic, said hes not aware of any other supportive housing site in the state or even the country that creates an entirely sober environment. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Theres a groundswell of support for sober living. And finally, it looks like our city is prepared to meet that demand, Shaw said at Thursdays news conference. He praised Breed for taking this bold political step a courageous step. Breeds Department of Public Health took another step Thursday to push treatment for people struggling with addiction. The health department sent a memo to city-funded nonprofits, telling them that they must develop written protocols for how their staff will provide substance use treatment information and referrals to their drug-using clients. All service providers must have multilingual city-approved palm cards offering information about drug treatment and all staff who interact with clients must be able to provide treatment information verbally and in writing, the health department said. The view from a window at the proposed sober living facility. Benjamin Fanjoy/The Chronicle The sober living site is not the only recent initiative that Breed said stemmed from her conversations with people in recovery. Another example is Proposition F, a measure Breed placed on the March ballot that would require drug screening and treatment for San Francisco welfare recipients. Prop. F has been slammed by addiction treatment specialists who say it would not work and would merely shift blame onto the poorest San Franciscans, as one critic said Thursday. But Breed said she was motivated to put the measure on the ballot because of input she heard from people in recovery. Cedric Akbar, a substance use recovery advocate, is one such supporter of Prop. F and he was equally enthusiastic about the prospect of San Francisco opening a sober living hotel on Kearny Street. One size does not fit all, Akbar said Thursday. And what we have to do in the city of San Francisco is stop bickering amongst each other, (and) be able to get our people thats laying on the street, off the street, and put them back into responsible, effective and (accountable) living. Phoenix Project President Julie Pitta, left, and Executive Director Jeremy Mack are photographed at City Hall in San Francisco on Jan. 24. The new progressive nonprofit formed in response to moderate political groups gaining traction in the city in recent years. Gabrielle Lurie/The Chronicle San Francisco moderates have notched political gains in the city over the last few years, successfully recalling progressive District Attorney Chesa Boudin and three school board members. They replaced a progressive incumbent on the Board of Supervisors with a moderate and have tapped into deep-pocketed tech and other wealthy donors as Mayor London Breed has espoused more conservative policies. Now, a group of progressives say they have a new vehicle to fight back. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Launched last week, the nonprofit Phoenix Project is a response to moderate political groups like GrowSF and TogetherSF, which have grown considerably in recent years. The Phoenix Projects president, Julie Pitta, and executive director, Jeremy Mack, say they will position themselves in direct opposition to their rivals, focusing on digging into the funding behind moderate groups. Pitta is no stranger to conflict in local politics in San Francisco, and her tactics are now a focus of moderates. She came under fire this week for tearing down a campaign poster for a moderate supervisor candidate. Though she apologized, she lost her job as a columnist for a neighborhood newspaper. Its not clear how the incident will affect the Phoenix Projects future. Pitta and Mack say theyre concerned that wealthy tech moguls and billionaires are funding moderate political action committees. They supplied research showing Neighbors for a Better San Francisco, GrowSF, TogetherSF and Abundant SF have raised tens of millions of dollars in recent years. All of those groups have both a PAC and a 501(c) (3) and/or 501(c) (4) nonprofit organization tied to them. The IRS bars 501(c) (3) organizations from directly or indirectly participating in or intervening in any political campaign on behalf of any candidate, but they can engage in service and charity. Meanwhile, 501(c) (4) organizations may engage in political campaigns to help or oppose candidates for public office as long as thats not their primary activity. The IRS does not require these organizations to disclose donor information. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Phoenix Projects goal is to call attention to the donors on the citys political right. Mack pointed to Kilroy Realty and wealthy donors such as Bill Oberndorf, Michael Moritz and Chris Larsen who have spent big on PACs, which do disclose funders. Mack said these kinds of donors are investing heavily into pushing this city back toward big business, corporate real estate and the gentrification agenda. The Phoenix Project also hopes to highlight the amount of money going into nonprofits, affiliated with moderate PACs, that dont require the same disclosures. Mack calls this dark money because the nonprofits are not required to disclose donors. However, the IRS says 501(c) (4) organizations dont have to disclose the same information as PACs, and there appears to be nothing illegal about the way that the moderate organizations report revenues. The Phoenix Project itself is a 501(c) (4) organization that has not disclosed its donors at this time. The moderate groups maintain that they are following all disclosure laws and laws governing political activity by nonprofits, and have called Mack and Pittas claim that dark money influences local politics a baseless conspiracy theory. They say the nonprofits they run engage in important civic projects and that small donors and grassroots supporters are a big part of their backing. Mack is the only paid employee at the Phoenix Project, while Pitta volunteers along with the other board members: Anabel Ibanez, a family liaison in San Francisco public schools; Keane Chukwuneta, a campaign coordinator for the nonprofit Jobs with Justice; and Hope Williams, who works for the Sustainable Economies Law Center and formerly volunteered for Democratic Socialist Supervisor Dean Preston. Mack said the group is funded by people who are ideologically aligned with us and are giving donations of $5,000, $10,000 and $20,000. At launch, the group had gathered a modest $50,000 war chest, with plans to start aggressive fundraising efforts after a launch party this month. The leaders said they are largely self-funded, but did not give more information on their donors. We plan to be very transparent in who we are, whos donating to us, and what our mission is, Mack said. Taking its name from the phoenix rising from the ashes an image emblazoned on San Franciscos flag the project says it will track the fundraising and spending of tech-rooted groups GrowSF, TogetherSF, Abundant SF and five others. So far, its research shows that, since 2020, 25 wealthy donors have given a combined $27 million to these groups. Of the $30 million raised for these groups since 2020, they said, about $16 million went to organizations that dont require donor disclosures. The Chronicle sent the fundraising numbers to the moderate groups, who said they found no inaccuracies in the research but pointed to flaws in the Phoenix Projects claims. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Kanishka Cheng of TogetherSF Action, a PAC, said in a statement that since the organizations founding it has garnered widespread support from hundreds of large and grassroots donors, including tech billionaire Moritz, who helped launch TogetherSF. Cheng said the PAC became aligned with the nonprofit TogetherSF to form a mutual aid response program in the wake of the pandemic. She said that since 2020, the nonprofit TogetherSF has worked to increase civic engagement and education in San Francisco, volunteering to do local cleanups, public education sessions and respond to rising food insecurity. Cheng added in a further statement that she was glad the (Phoenix Project research) shows that we follow all the laws required of us. She said that it is no secret that Michael Moritz backs Together SF Action, but we have hundreds of other grassroots donors that we dont think should be subject to the public bullying that the people behind this project choose to engage in. Feature: Pakistani, Chinese AI researchers joining hands to make cities smarter, safer 10:07, February 09, 2024 By Raheela Nazir, Deng Kaiyin, Lu Hao ( Xinhua Seemab Latif (R), an associate professor at Pakistan's National University of Sciences and Technology and director of the China-Pakistan Intelligent Systems (CPInS) lab, communicates with a student at the CPInS lab in Islamabad, Pakistan on Jan. 19, 2024. (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal) ISLAMABAD/GUANGZHOU, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- Collaboration on artificial intelligence (AI) and its applications is in full swing at the China-Pakistan Intelligent Systems (CPInS) lab at Pakistan's National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST). "Liveness detection, gait recognition, automated number plate detection and recognition, and waste management employing artificial intelligence are among the projects we are working on," said Sahar Arshad, a PhD student at NUST and a researcher at CPInS lab. Established in 2022, the lab is a collaborative effort between NUST and the Guangzhou Institute of Software Application Technology under the Chinese Academy of Science, with several of its projects focusing on developing innovative solutions personalized for Pakistan's urban challenges, according to Seemab Latif, an associate professor at NUST and director of CPInS lab. Seemab Latif (L), an associate professor at Pakistan's National University of Sciences and Technology and director of the China-Pakistan Intelligent Systems (CPInS) lab, communicates with a student at the CPInS lab in Islamabad, Pakistan on Jan. 19, 2024. (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal) The lab is helping Pakistan develop smart cities with efficient traffic and management systems, surveillance solutions, and infrastructure monitoring, Latif said, adding that Pakistan is able to leverage upon already tried and tested technological solutions and utilize them according to its local requirements. "We do not need to start from scratch as China has already made huge progress in technology over the years, and is sharing it with other countries including Pakistan. Many projects are being implemented in various areas of Pakistan, and we are expanding it further to make our cities safe and sound," she said. To make headway in the field of technology, Latif said several Pakistani students are doing their post-doctoral research in China and more will follow in coming years, supporting Pakistan to cultivate a skilled workforce proficient in cutting-edge technologies. Muhammad Turyalai Khan, a Pakistani research fellow at CPInS lab, is pursuing his post-doctoral degree in China. Witnessing the rapid technological development in China, Khan told Xinhua that he is eager to bring advanced Chinese technologies back to Pakistan, bringing more benefits to local people. Khan said that by leveraging the strengths and expertise of both China and Pakistan, CPInS lab exemplifies the potential of international partnerships in driving innovation and addressing shared challenges. In a conversation with Xinhua, Wu Jun, director of CPInS lab, said that the lab brings together top scientists and outstanding teams from China and Pakistan in the technology field to deeply strengthen friendly exchanges and cooperation between the two countries. "The China-Pakistan Intelligent Systems Laboratory has developed multiple systems based on Pakistan's actual conditions to assist urban governance and benefit local people," he said. He added that the joint projects will help more Pakistani people experience the security and convenience brought by the application of smart systems. (Web editor: Cai Hairuo, Zhong Wenxing) February 8, 2024: The Ukrainian Blackjack internet hackers group, working in cooperation with the Ukrainian Security Service and the Defense Intelligence organization, carried out an extensive online attack on Russian networks in late 2023. This effort downloaded data on construction plans for more than 500 military bases in Russia and occupied Ukraine and erased the original Russian data files. This essential data was gone for good until there was time for it to be reconstructed. Also obtained was data on the plans and operations for Russian military headquarters at hundreds of bases. The facilities were located throughout Russia and included air-defense installations and arsenals where weapons are assembled and stored. Blackjack also stole massive amounts of data on Russian military plans and proposals as well as after-action reports on completed projects and operations. Again, all the original files were erased. The damage was restricted to assets useful to the Russian military. Outside the military there were vast quantities of untouched material that could, with some effort, be adapted to military use. Blackjack also destroyed large amounts of other Russian data stored online, along with most of the backups. This caused chaos among Russian construction supervisors. Work on projects was disrupted, interrupted, or put on hold because crucial information was missing or partially erased. Seven computer servers were corrupted as well as the computers used by 150 Russian individuals working for the military. The Ukrainians were primarily interested in how all this data destruction aided the Ukrainian war effort. It did so by eliminating assets the Russians used to fight Ukrainians. The Russians have had some success with their own internet hacks. For example, Russian hackers obtained access to surveillance cameras in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv. This enabled precise selection of targets for missile attacks. Both sides hackers also carry out operations in the combat zone. For example, Ukrainian hackers hacked into the encrypted video feed from Russian FPV (First Person View) UAVs, providing the Ukrainians with real time information on where Russian troops are. FPV involves the UAV operator wearing a device on their face that enables them to see what the camera on the UAV sees and operate the UAV using that information for surveillance to fly an UAV carrying explosives into its target. The operator then takes control of another armed UAV and does the same again and again. Skilled FPV UAV operators are outside the combat zone and can freely move around if it is suspected that the enemy is tracking and targeting FPV UAV operators. Both sides use this technology. The Russian video camera operators see what is headed their way as they fly towards Ukrainian forces. One complication is that military and civilian networks are generally separate and use different technology so that they are not interchangeable. That separation was revealed back in 2016, shortly after Russia had created a separate, encrypted Internet for its military. They call it CTDT for Closed Data Transfer Segment and it was tested in combat for the first time that year in Syria. This is similar to the classified Internet used by the American military. The U.S. Department of Defense has two private Internets using Internet technology, but not directly connected to the public Internet. NIPRNET (Non-classified Internet Protocol Router Network) is unclassified, and the primary network for American military personnel. SIPRNET (Secure Internet Protocol Router Network) is classified, and all traffic is encrypted so you can use it to send top secret material. NIPRNET is the largest private network on the planet, with over four million authorized users and over three times as many devices, including PCs, tablets, smart phones, and other electronic equipment connected. NIPRNET has grown steadily since it was created from the earlier MILNET in the 1980s. In 2010 the U.S. Department of Defense spent $10 million to have a civilian firm create a roadmap for NIPRNET. This was an admission that, in effect, NIPRNET had gotten a little out of control and the roadmap program was meant to find out how big it had gotten, and exactly what was in there. The survey also sought to find any instances where unauthorized users had quietly joined the net. This was suspected and the survey was the start of a major effort to clean interlopers out. The survey also looked for weakness in security. The Department of Defense has made several major efforts since 2005 to improve network security. But those efforts also revealed that weaknesses can show up in the strangest places and that was another reason to keep many aspects of the investigations and subsequent fixes secret. Russia has apparently learned from American problems with SIPRNET and got a major assist from a former NSA contractor, Edward Snowden. He had access to SIPRNET, stole large quantities of classified data from it and then fled to Russia in 2013. Because of that and what else Snowden told Russia about SIPRNET, CTDT has had a lot of additional security built in. Russia has not provided details but using CTDT in a combat zone for over a year was a challenge to the Americans and Israelis to have a crack at penetrating the new Russian network. Because of the intense secrecy there is nothing to report on that front, which is not to say anything has happened. In situations like this details become public much later. The Department of Defense continues efforts to keep SIPRNET secure. You could say that effort got into high gear during 2008 when the Department of Defense banned the use of USB thumb drive data devices on their computers. This was all because they were having more problems keeping hackers out of its private Internet. But a year later the USB devices were allowed back, but only if they use new versions that have security built in. Military network software was modified to recognize the secure USB memory sticks and continue to block unauthorized devices. The original panic about this began when a worm program got on to SIPRNET via a USB device. The problem in question was hacker programs called worms that automatically copy themselves to rewritable CDs and DVDs as well as memory sticks. Then, the next time a CD/DVD/memory stick is read by another program, the worm program copies itself onto that computer, and tries to secretly take over, and enable hackers to gain access and steal stuff. The existence of worms was a major threat to network security and the military promptly told troops to not use memory sticks on military computers. This caused problems in the combat zone, where there is not a lot of Internet capacity bandwidth for moving information around. Troops prefer to keep a lot of material on memory sticks. When the troops rebelled against these restrictions, that sometimes resulted in physically sealing USB ports on some machines. In the end, the troops won this round. These worm programs could do all sorts of damage on the closed SIPRNET, and even presented the possibility of getting secret information off the secure net by copying data to a hacker program that then attempts to copy itself to other memory devices, and then PCs hooked up to the Internet, and then transmit the secret material back to the hacker, or spy. Before the Internet came along, programs that automatically copied themselves were a common method for viruses and other malware to get around, slowly, but useful data did travel that way. NIPRNET is also vulnerable. Even though the Department of Defense installed new hardware, especially customized routers, and software to increase security, the worms were still getting into portions of their networks. Oddly enough the Department of Defense does not appear to have paid as much attention to a user simply copying data from SIPRNET and delivering the material to someone not authorized to have it. The military was a major user of the public Internet from the beginning, and they have discovered that most of the intrusions via hacks and viruses were the result of poor configuration. This was mainly about not keeping the hardware and software set up correctly to defeat known vulnerabilities, or not installing patches and security updates in time. The rest of the intrusions come from more mundane problems, like using an easily cracked password, or no password at all. Network security has always been a people problem, and these recent incidents are a sharp reminder of that. It's easy for troops to be doing something on SIPRNET, then switch to the Internet, and forget that they are now on an unsecure network. Warnings to users about the switch and subsequent vulnerability did not cure the problem. The Internet is very useful for the troops, especially for discussing technical and tactical matters with other soldiers. The army has tried to control the problem by monitoring military accounts, those ending in .mil, but the troops quickly became aware of that, and opened another account with Yahoo or Google, for their more casual web surfing, and for discussions with other troops. The Internet has been a major benefit for combat soldiers, enabling them to share firsthand information quickly, and accurately. That's why the troops were warned that the enemy is actively searching for anything they post, and this material has been found at terrorist websites, and on captured enemy laptops. In reality, information spreads among terrorists much more slowly than among American troops. But if soldiers discuss tactics and techniques in an open venue, including posting pictures and videos, the enemy will eventually find and download it. The terrorists could speed up this process if they could get the right hackware inside American military computers. But right now, the enemy just Googles for useful chatter from Western troops. February 8, 2024: Swarms of UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) have provided a new form of target detection and assignment of targets to weapons within range and available for use, similar to Ukrainian artillery fire control software first used in combat at the onset of the 2022 Russian invasion. This is another new capability made possible by new technologies and combat situations where these novel combinations of capability and opportunity appear. The use of these new UAVs and UAV tactics in Ukraine will establish new combat techniques that did not exist previously. The Ukraine War was unique in that it was an unexpected opportunity to use a lot of military equipment and technology that had become available over the last half century. In that time there was no near-peer war going on where both sides could use the new weapons and systems. Ukraine changed all that and both Russians and Ukrainians sought to find more effective ways to use these unexpected and often novel opportunities to kill each other in new ways. This is a common phenomenon in all wars, especially those of the 20th and 21st centuries. One of the more unexpected opportunities was the widespread use of cheap UAVs equipped with cheap, lightweight, and reliable communications using video cameras and other sensors. This sort of technical evolution turning into revolutionary applications is nothing new. This is what happened in the 1990s when large UAVs like the half-ton Predator equipped with new sensors and communications suddenly became essential items of equipment for the military. This evolution has become more common during the last three decades and the process accelerated in Ukraine. There were other examples of this in recent conflicts that were not near-peer but were intense. One example occurred in 2009 when the U.S. Army received the first production models of its Sky Warrior MQ-1C UAVs. In 2008, two of the prototypes were sent to Iraq for testing. That was a success, and by 2010 four MQ-1Cs were operating in Iraq, supplanting the smaller Shadow 200s. Four MQ-1Cs were also sent to Afghanistan. The MQ-1Cs cost $8 million each but went down to $6 million as mass production got underway. The MQ-1Cs are slightly larger Predators and were used for missions formerly performed by Shadow 200, and other large army UAVs. The big difference is that Sky Warrior can carry weapons, usually Hellfire missiles. Suddenly the army was using missile-firing, fixed-wing combat aircraft, something it has not been able to do for many decades after the U.S. Air Force was created out of the old U.S. Army Air Force in the late 1940s. The air force accepted, initially, that unmanned aircraft were not the sole preserve of the air force, and the army took that and built a new drone air force for itself. The air force was not happy when the army soon had a large force of armed UAVs. Many air force generals now believed the army should not have the MQ-1C, or at least not use them with weapons. That has already caused some spats in the Pentagon over the issue, but a recent purge and reshuffle of the senior air force leadership, by the Secretary of Defense, makes it appear that the army will be left alone to build its new robotic air force. At least for the moment. Back in the 1950s, after a decade of bickering, the Department of Defense ordered the army to stick with helicopters, while the air force got all the fixed wing aircraft. But UAVs do not use pilots and the army does not consider UAVs part of the half century old deal. But suddenly the army is again flying armed aircraft, in addition to the armed helicopters they have always had. The army argument is that these larger UAVs work better for them if they are under the direct control of combat brigades. The air force sees that as inefficient and would prefer to have one large pool of larger UAVs for deployment as needed. This difference of opinion reflects basic differences in how the army and air force deploy and use their combat forces. The army has found that a critical factor in battlefield success is teamwork among members of a unit, and subordinate units in a brigade. While the air force accepts this as a critical performance issue for their aircraft squadrons, they deem it irrelevant for army use of UAVs. Seeing army MQ-1Cs doing visual and electronic reconnaissance and firing missiles at ground targets, the air force sees itself losing control of missions it has dominated since its founding in 1948. By 2010 the army had about 200 of these larger UAVs, most of them 159 kg Shadow 200s. These carry day and night cameras, and laser designators, but usually no weapons. Most of the 500 new army heavy UAVs delivered by 2015 carried missiles. The army already had thousands of much smaller micro-UAVs used by the infantry and other ground forces. The air force was not bothered by these, as they flew too low to bother air force aircraft and were not armed. By 2015 the army had been quietly building its new army air force for a while. In 2006 the army quietly bought twenty Predator type UAVs called Sky Warrior Alpha. All of these came from the same firm that manufactures the Predator and Sky Warrior. These were in use in Iraq for nearly three years, mainly for counter-IED work with Task Force Odin. The one-ton Sky Warrior Alpha can carry 204 kg of sensors and 136 kg weapons, and a few of them have fired Hellfire missiles. Sky Warrior Alpha was, officially, the I-Gnat ER, which was based on a predecessor design of the Predator, the Gnat-750, and an improved model, the I-Gnat, which had been in use since 1989. The I-Gnat ER/ Sky Warrior Alpha looks like a Predator but isn't. In terms of design and capabilities, they are cousins. The MQ-1C Sky Warrior weighs 1.5 tons, carries 135 kg of sensors internally, and up to 227 kg of sensors or weapons externally. It has an endurance of up to 36 hours and a top speed of 270 kilometers an hour. Sky Warrior can land and take off automatically, and carry four Hellfire missiles, compared to two on the Predator, or a dozen smaller 70mm guided missiles. The original MQ-1 Predator was a one ton aircraft that had two hard points under its wing, which could carry one 49 kg Hellfire each. Max speed of the Predator was 215 kilometers an hour, max cruising speed is 160 kilometers an hour with a max altitude of 25,000 feet. Typical sorties are 12-20 hours each. A Sky Warrior company has 115 troops, 12 Sky Warrior UAVs and five ground stations. The army planned to equip each combat brigade with a Sky Warrior company. As its model number, MQ-1C indicates, Sky Warrior is a MQ-1 Predator replacement. The U.S. Air Force had planned to replace its MQ-1s with MQ-1Cs, but later chose to buy only larger Reapers. The Sky Warrior was developed by the army, which wanted at least 500 of them. The third member of the Predator family is the MQ-9 Reaper. This is a 4.7 ton aircraft that looks like the MQ-1. It has six hard points and can carry 680 kg. These include up to eight Hellfire missiles, two Sidewinder or two AMRAAM air-to-air missiles, two Maverick missiles, or two 227 kg smart bombs that are laser or GPS guided. Max speed is 400 kilometers an hour, and max endurance is 15 hours. The Reaper is considered a combat aircraft, to replace F-16s or A-10s in many situations. This it has done, in addition to giving army commanders and troops unprecedented aerial reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities. Small infantry units like platoons and squads have their 2 kg Raven controlled with a handheld device with a screen showing the user what the Raven video camera sees. Raven has a max range of 10 kilometers and endurance of up to 90 minutes before the battery has to be changed or recharged. February 8, 2024: A recent survey of national military power ranked South Korea as number five while its belligerent neighbor North Korea came in at 36. This has a lot to do with the economic differences between the two Koreas. The south is democratic and prosperous with a growing arms industry that designs and manufactures modern weapons for itself and export. The South Korean military has half as many men, and some women, in the military. The southerners are better trained, armed, supported, and led. There are many reasons why the Inmun Gun, as North Korean calls its armed forces, despite its large size of about a million troops is considered relatively ineffective. One of the least talked about, especially in the media, problem is the growing use of bribes within the North Korean armed forces. This begins when young men are conscripted. The growing wealth generated by a recently legalized market economy in the north means there are more middle-class families with enough cash to protect their sons from the most unpleasant forms of military service. For nearly a decade it has been common for conscription officials to accept bribes to get the sons of affluent families into choice jobs in the capital, the internal security service, or anywhere but the combat divisions on the DMZ, or Demilitarized Zone that separates north and south. This type of bribery has become so widespread that jobs in the bureaucracy and military dealing with assignments of new conscripts, and thus the people to be bribed, are now being sold to officers who have the most cash. Buying one of these jobs is a good investment, because a lot of money can be made. There is some risk because of occasional crackdowns. If you get caught, life in a labor camp or execution is likely, but so far, the risks appear to be low, and the money is good. Its gotten to the point where if you pay a large enough bribe to the right people, you can be out of the military within six months with a medical discharge. Over the last few years, the number of missing conscripts has become obvious, and the solution was not to send a lot of officers in charge of conscription to labor camps, but to try and pressure recent high school graduates and those who had recently completed their ten years of service to voluntarily enlist or reenlist. Birth rates have been declining for years and so has the population of military-age men. Those already in the military are bribing their way out or simply deserting. The calls for voluntary enlistments have largely been ignored. The North Korean armed forces have lots of other, and older, problems. While nearly every adult male serves at least six years in the military, the big problem is that years of economic problems and failed harvests have left the troops poorly equipped, often hungry, and increasingly insubordinate. With most of the best educated troops bribing their way into any job but one in a combat unit, it is increasingly doubtful if the North Korean combat forces could get very far during an invasion of South Korea. Despite all that, a lot of North Korean troops are believed to be reliable enough to carry out orders to invade South Korea, for a while at least, and that could end up doing a lot of damage to Seoul, the southern capital where half the population and a quarter of the GDP are. South Koreans have more to lose than the northerners. Sprawling Seoul is 40-50 kilometers from the North Korean border. The city alone is 600 square kilometers, and the suburbs are even larger. There are over 17,000 people per square kilometer in the city. The southerners know the north is desperate and heavily armed. What do you do? South Korea has responded by increasing its ability to quickly halt any rocket and artillery bombardment from the north. This would involve a lot of artillery and smart bomb use in a short time. Many North Korean targets would be destroyed but the south has much more to lose, even if the northern attack is cut short. The North Korean Army currently has about 800,000 troops, over 3,000 tanks, 3,000 other AFV, or armored fighting vehicles for infantry, and nearly 8,000 artillery pieces, including 2,000 rocket launchers. Most of these weapons are pointed south and stationed on or near the DMZ. North Korea has the means to be dangerous, for a little while anyway. Fuel shortages, elderly equipment and lack of maintenance means that a lot of this gear would not stay operational for long. As an example, the past 25 years or so of deferred maintenance, as in none on tube artillery pieces including the guns on tanks, means almost all of those can only fire one round because their recuperator seals have deteriorated so much. North Korea has two armored divisions, 12 motorized infantry and 23 non-motorized infantry divisions used only for static defense along the DMZ. These troops also serve as border guards to prevent civilians or soldiers from leaving the country via the DMZ. A growing number of North Korean troops stationed on the DMZ are deserting via the DMZ. There are supposed to be lots of landmines in the DMZ, but many have been removed or otherwise become inoperable over the years and not replaced. This was noticed as more North Korean soldiers came across the DMZ at night and often had to find a South Korean military border post or civilian home further south so they could announce they were defecting. When this started happening several years ago it became a scandal because the DMZ was supposed to be well guarded. Most of the best educated North Korean troops are in the rear areas, where their parents, bribes and instinct for self-preservation put them. The troops along the DMZ know this and are expected to lose some of their enthusiasm as a result. A growing number of North Korean refugees arriving in South Korea, who served along the northern side of the DMZ, confirm all this. They also confirm that the growing culture of corruption in the military leadership and bureaucracy is seeing more and more of the food and fuel meant for front line troops diverted by corrupt officers and sold in the markets. No wonder so many parents are willing to pay bribes to make sure their kids never get assigned to one of those units. February 9, 2024: India has long been the largest customers for Russian arms exports. Because of the Ukraine War Russia has been unable to deliver orders to India on time, if at all. That, and growing quality and performance problems with Russian weapons, has India increasingly turning to Western suppliers. Over the last twenty years Russia has supplied 65 percent of the $60 billion in weapons purchases India made. Despite that, there has been a trend towards obtaining Western weapons and Western countries have been cooperating with India to make this easier. That means making deals with Indian firms to produce Western weapons in India. The Western countries are willing to transfer technology and supply training to make this happen. Western nations will work with India if Indian forces have any problems with Western weapons. This superior customer support is another reason for favoring Western weapons. At the same time India has had increasing problems with Russian weapons and, because of the Ukraine War, Russia has been unable to deliver Indian orders on time. India also noted that it was superior Western weapons that were causing Russia so many problems in Ukraine. There are other factors. Both the United States and India consider China a military threat. Finally, India feels more capable in opposing China because of growing Indian economic power. Indian GDP doubled in the last decade; from $1.7 trillion in current dollars to over $3.5 trillion now. This made India the fifth largest economy, surpassing Britain ($3.2 trillion) and France ($3.2 trillion). The rest of the top five are the U.S ($21 trillion), China, Germany ($4.1 trillion) and Japan ($4 trillion). Chinese GDP growth is slowing although in the last decade it more than doubled from $6.1 trillion to $18.3 trillion. Over three decades of spectacular economic growth in China resulted in the Chinese GDP becoming fourteen times larger than it was in 1989. In that same period the U.S. GDP doubled. After World War II India had a larger GDP than China and never felt the same urgency as China to modernize and expand its economy. Since the 1990s India has been trying to catch up. But India has not been as effective in keeping up with the Chinese military in terms of modernization. Indian threats to oppose Chinese military moves carry little weight with the Chinese or anyone else who analyzes the situation. Actions have consequences and, in this case, it means China can push India around on their mutual border. China intends to keep pushing until it regains its claimed lost territories. Currently the Indian GDP growth rate is increasing faster than Chinas, but the Indian defense budget does not benefit. Indian military modernization plans remain on hold as the politicians try to figure out how to enrich themselves from all the additional money now available for spending. China notices this persistent corruption and is encouraged to push ill-equipped and supported Indian troops back from disputed border areas. India was neutral towards the Russian invasion of Ukraine. That makes sense because India has one of the largest armies in the world but has avoided getting involved in any wars. Even the Indian border disputes with China have been largely free of lethal violence. Border activity with China is more push and shove than opening fire. This is in contrast to the many nations that support the Russian invasion because they have a lot in common with Russia as they tend to be aggressive and warlike dictatorships or those with ideological or economic reasons to back Russia. These supporters include Belarus, Eritrea, China, Iran, Mali, Myanmar, Nicaragua, North Korea, and Syria. All these supporters agree that the West is a problem for them and Russia. Even before the 2022 invasion, Russia insisted that its operations in Ukraine were part of an effort to defend Russia from growing NATO efforts to destroy Russia. India has no problems with NATO and many of Indias trading partners are NATO members. Russia, on the other hand, was a major trading partner until the Cold War ended in 1991 and it was downhill from there. India considered the Russian invasion of Ukraine a mistake but officially remained neutral. That invasion turned India away from Russia as an arms supplier. Indians saw no problem with that because they had been losing confidence in Russian weapons for over a decade. For Russia that meant the loss of their largest arms export customer. February 9, 2024: The United States sold $80.8 billion worth of weapons to export customers in 2023. This was in reaction to the Ukraine War, when many European NATO countries sent large quantities of weapons to Ukraine. Now those NATO nations want to rebuild their own weapons stockpiles. NATO nations close to Russia, especially Poland and the Baltic States are also increasing their defense spending and acquisitions of weapons in case Russia attacks. Before 2022, such a Russian threat was seen as very unlikely. Then Russia invaded Ukraine and later Russian leaders indicated that once Ukraine was absorbed there were other border areas requiring similar attention. Since 2022 Poland has been ordering large quantities of weapons and expanding its peacetime armed forces. This is to discourage a Russian attack or defeat it if Russia attacks anyway. That is still seen as unlikely because Poland, unlike Ukraine, is a NATO member, as are the smaller Baltic States. NATO is a defensive coalition, formed in the 1950s to protect members from Russian aggression. NATO membership means that if you attack one member, all NATO nations act as if they were attacked. This arrangement has worked so far, but there are fears that Russia now feels they can attack a NATO nation and intimidate other members from getting involved by threatening to use nuclear weapons against what they consider an attack by NATO. That twisted logic interprets NATO defending itself against Russian aggression as a NATO conspiracy to destroy Russia. Sales by American defense companies in 2023 were up 56 percent over the previous year. That was because the Americans were increasing their own stockpiles while helping other NATO members do the same. At the same time, NATO countries were still sending more weapons and munitions to Ukraine, which is still fighting the Russian invaders. Poland is the NATO member spending the most on defense because they have faced a thousand years of attacks by Russia. Poland considers themselves as the defender of Europe from Russian aggression. Nations west of Poland, especially Germany, see themselves as eventual targets of Russian aggression. During the Cold War many Europeans feared that a Russian attack would seek to overrun all of Europe from Poland to the Spanish border. This is less likely now because France has had nuclear weapons since 1960 and those weapons were to deal with a Russian invasion that sought to cross the Rhine River and enter France. Russia has had nuclear weapons since 1949 but, like all other nuclear powers, has not used them. The Americans dropped two nuclear bombs on Japan to end World War II and the impact of those attacks have convinced subsequent nuclear powers to threaten to use them, but not actually do so. This led to some strange politics after 1991 when the Soviet Union dissolved. Ukraine, Belarus, and Kazakhstan, three of the new nations emerging from the wreckage of the Soviet Union, inherited some Soviet nuclear weapons. A 1992 treaty arranged for Ukraine, Belarus, and Kazakhstan to eliminate their nuclear weapons in return form guarantees by the United States, Britain, and Russia that Russia would never attack them. That lasted until 2014 when Russia invaded Ukraine to nab the Crimea and parts of the Donbas area. That petered out in 2015 without a formal ceasefire. Russia then invaded Ukraine a second time in 2022, intending to conquer the whole country. That proved to be not only a mistake, but a disaster. The fighting is still underway, and a frustrated Russia asserts it will keep fighting the Ukrainians for as long as it takes to absorb Ukraine back into the Russian empire. Poland and the Baltic States believe with some justification that they are next, so Poland has increased procurement of weapons and will soon be the most powerful military power in NATO Europe. This includes ordering $15 billion worth of weapons from South Korea, particularly including a thousand K2 tanks which are similar to the American M1 tank but more modern. This will give Poland the largest tank force in Europe. Poland has also ordered more American HIMARS missile launchers and AH-64 Apache helicopters as well as 32 of the new American F-35 stealth fighters. More F-35s will be obtained as soon as the F-35 manufacturer catches up to orders from the United States and other NATO nations. F-35s are replacing the F-16, which has been the staple fighter for the United States and many NATO nations for 50 years. European nations receiving F-35s are sending their F-16s to Ukraine. Germany is allegedly reviving its armed forces, after allowing them to shrink during the 1990s. That was because Russia was no longer a threat and Germans wanted to spend money on social programs rather than armed forces. That has changed and the Germans promise to send a military force to Poland to add to the forces deterring a Russian invasion. American forces remain in Germany where they are part of the NATO defense forces there to deter Russia. The largest American contribution has been the majority of the military aid initially sent to Ukraine after Russia invaded. Since then, European NATO members have increased their contributions while the Americans reduced theirs, in part because the United States had depleted its reserves of weapons and equipment and needed to rebuild those reserves in case China became a problem in the Western Pacific. The Russian threat in Ukraine has led many European NATO members to increase defense spending to the NATO goal of two percent of GDP. Until now, few European nations came close to two percent. Now several nations are headed for two percent, and some will be spending a little more than two percent. The Ukraine War is responsible for this revived interest in defense among European nations. February 9, 2024: Since the October 2023 Hamas offensive in Gaza, Israel has gone on the offensive against Hamas in Gaza, in the West Bank, and may soon kick off against Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon. Israel gave peace a chance and that didnt work, but perhaps belligerence will. The IDF (Israeli Defense Forces) are fully mobilized and so are Israeli civil defense operations. Israel expects Hezbollah to fight back against IDF forces while also attacking Israeli civilians in northern Israel. Hezbollahs ongoing attacks on civilians are intended to weaken the Israeli offensive by forcing the Israeli to assign troops to protect Israeli civilians. Israeli civilians are warned that there may be widespread power outages lasting or two days. There could also be disruptions in availability of food supplies. In northern Israel, where the heaviest fighting is expected, 100,000 civilians are being moved from areas that might be under fire or subject to enemy raids. Additional medical professionals are being mobilized as are preparations for establishing temporary hospitals and first aid facilities as well as stockpiles of food for displaced people. Arrangements were made to transport thousands of wounded to hospitals throughout Israel. Israel also went after Hezbollah leaders. These attacks are made with air strikes or using Mossad (secret intelligence service) assassination teams. IDF infantry are supported by self-propelled artillery, air strikes and the use of aircraft and UAVs for air reconnaissance and surveillance. IDF leaders understand that Hezbollah has been preparing its defenses for several decades and receiving weapons from Iran. Those deliveries were often destroyed by Israel airstrikes as the trucks passed through Syria on their way to Lebanon. These attacks were the main reason for the hundreds of Israeli airstrikes against targets in Syria over the years. The Iranian missiles and unguided long-range rockets that did reach Syria were attacked if the warehouses or bunkers containing weapons could be located. Some of these storage sites were also used as workshops where Iranian technicians added guidance systems to unguided rockets. The guidance system kits were more compact and easier to conceal and smuggle into Syria for installation on unguided rockets that survived their trip from Iran. Feature: Iconic U.S. ski resort embraces Chinese Lunar New Year 13:35, February 09, 2024 By Yang Shilong ( Xinhua A torchlight parade resembling a "snaking dragon" illuminates the slopes of Camelback Mountain in Tannersville, the U.S. state of Pennsylvania, on Feb. 6, 2024. (Photo by Yu Zheng/Xinhua) NEW YORK, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- A mesmerizing torchlight parade resembling a "snaking dragon" illuminated the slopes of Camelback Mountain in Tannersville, Pennsylvania (PA) on Tuesday, ushering in the inaugural Lunar New Year celebration in the United States' premier ski destination. The idea for this breathtaking spectacle originated about a year ago with retired professional snowboarder Luke Wynen, now the sales director at Blue Mountain Resort in the Poconos, PA. Wynen then discussed it with James Zhang, president of the Philadelphia-based Sino-American Business and Travel Association, who planned a winter carnival to honor the Year of the Dragon, which falls on Feb. 10. "I thought it would look so cool. And he thought it was a fantastic idea. It just kept building. And then it turned into the wonderful event tonight," said Wynen, who led a procession of 50 snowboarders adorned with vibrant red LED lights, captivating a large audience around 9:10 p.m. local time (0210 GMT Wednesday). "I'd like to see that America and China are good friends. This event is designed to be just a way to bring our two peoples together," said Wynen, echoing the sentiment shared by VIP guests during the earlier opening ceremony held at Camelback Resort, established in 1963. The dragon holds profound significance in Chinese culture as an auspicious symbol associated with power, strength and good fortune, explained Huang Ping, Chinese consul general in New York, while clutching a dragon mascot. Huang expressed optimism for enhanced cooperation between the United States and China during the Year of the Dragon, emphasizing the importance of cultivating future ambassadors to nurture a robust bilateral relationship. "We've had a good strong relationship with China. My office works to facilitate the trade and investment piece of that relationship," said David Briel, Deputy Secretary of the PA Department of Community and Economic Development, representing PA Governor Josh Shapiro. "Just to give you some basic numbers. We do about 18 billion U.S. dollars a year back and forth with China ... We look forward to building the cultural relationship as well," added Briel. Nathan Reigner, PA state director of outdoor recreation, touched upon the potential of outdoor recreation to foster friendships between the two nations, underscoring its role as both an industry and a driver of economic development. China's ice and snow leisure tourism experienced significant growth in the 2022-2023 winter season, attracting 312 million visitors and generating revenue of 50 billion dollars, according to Ma Yunfei, director of the China National Tourist Office and co-host of the celebration. Anticipating further expansion, Ma said that the upcoming winter season would see leisure tourists surpassing 400 million, with revenue reaching 80 billion dollars. "2024 is an important year for Sino-U.S. tourism as the 14th China-U.S. Tourism Leadership Summit is scheduled to take place in China in May. I believe that 2024 will mark a new starting point for Sino-U.S. tourism cooperation. I'd like to extend a sincere invitation for you to China," said Ma. Recent data indicated a promising recovery in China's tourism sector, with domestic tourists approaching nearly 4.9 billion in 2023, generating revenue of 5.2 trillion yuan (730 billion dollars). The outbound tourism figure exceeded 87 million, with an anticipated increase to 130 million in 2024. Tuesday's festivities showcased captivating lantern decorations, delectable cuisine, and enthralling performances by local students and their visiting Chinese peers. Notably, Niu Shanjinmei, a nine-year-old Beijing Opera actress, captivated the audience with her performance, adding to the charm of the celebration. Niu Shanjinmei, a nine-year-old Beijing Opera actress, performs at the Camelback Resort in Tannersville, the U.S. state of Pennsylvania, on Feb. 6, 2024. (Photo by Yu Zheng/Xinhua) A giant dragon decoration is set up at the Camelback Resort in Tannersville, the U.S. state of Pennsylvania, on Feb. 6, 2024. (Photo by Yu Zheng/Xinhua) Huang Ping, Chinese consul general in New York, attend the Lunar New Year celebration at the Camelback Resort in Tannersville, the U.S. state of Pennsylvania, on Feb. 6, 2024. A mesmerizing torchlight parade resembling a "snaking dragon" illuminated the slopes of Camelback Mountain in Tannersville, Pennsylvania (PA) on Tuesday, ushering in the inaugural Lunar New Year celebration in the United States' premier ski destination. (Photo by Ding Ye/Xinhua) David Briel, Deputy Secretary of the PA Department of Community and Economic Development, representing PA Governor Josh Shapiro, speaks at the Lunar New Year celebration at the Camelback Resort in Tannersville, the U.S. state of Pennsylvania, on Feb. 6, 2024. A mesmerizing torchlight parade resembling a "snaking dragon" illuminated the slopes of Camelback Mountain in Tannersville, Pennsylvania (PA) on Tuesday, ushering in the inaugural Lunar New Year celebration in the United States' premier ski destination. (Photo by Ding Ye/Xinhua) (Web editor: Cai Hairuo, Zhong Wenxing) The headquarters of Sikorsky in Stratford, Conn. Christian Abraham / Hearst Connecticut Media Sikorsky was dealt a blow Thursday as the U.S. Army announced it was scrapping plans for an armed scout helicopter that the Stratford-based manufacturer and its parent company Lockheed Martin hoped to produce. The decision comes a year after Sikorsky lost out on the chance to build a new utility helicopter for the military branch. Sikorsky's president previously stated the chance to build the utility helicopter - a replacement for the Black Hawk - and the scout helicopter that could be used for surveillance and reconnaissance as "existential" for the company's future viability. Building a new fleet of scout helicopters could have brought billions of dollars in Connecticut's direction. In a statement Thursday evening, Sikorsky and Lockheed Martin maintained the company's "X2" helicopter design offers unparalleled speed, range and agility, and that it is "confident" in the design for both U.S. and international needs. Advertisement Article continues below this ad To provide the U.S. military and its allies a decisive advantage to deter conflict now and in the future, there must be a transformational improvement in rotorcraft systems capabilities and a strong engineering workforce that can strengthen the nations leading edge in rotorcraft innovation," the Sikorsky statement read. "We are disappointed in this decision and will await a U.S. Army debrief to better understand its choice. In a joint statement, Connecticut's Congressional delegation said they want a detailed explanation from the Army on future aircraft capabilities and how "the exceptional and seasoned workforce at Sikorsky for generations to come" would be utilized. We are extremely disappointed that the Army has decided to walk away from the (Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft) program," the statement read. "We have been told on multiple occasions by the Army that FARA was their number one priority. This is a complete reversal of that position." Advertisement Article continues below this ad In a Thursday announcement, the Army called the decision a "rebalance" that was based on "lessons learned and a sober assessment of the modern battlefield" in its words. While the Army will not proceed with a new scout helicopter and will end production of the UH-60V version of the Black Hawk, but will commit to a new contract to purchase additional UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters and promised "new investments" its UH-60L Black Hawk fleet without providing immediate specifics. The Army indicated it will increase its use of drones and space-based surveillance systems as an alternative to the armed scout helicopter. Sikorsky had offered the Raider X prototype, with Bell in the competition as well with its 360 Invictus helicopter design. We are learning from the battlefield especially in Ukraine that aerial reconnaissance has fundamentally changed, said Gen. Randy George, chief of staff of the Army. Sensors and weapons mounted on a variety of unmanned systems and in space are more ubiquitous, further reaching, and more inexpensive than ever before. I am confident the Army can deliver for the Joint Force, both in the priority theater and around the globe, by accelerating innovation, procurement and fielding of modern unmanned aircraft systems, including the Future Tactical Unmanned Aircraft System, Launched Effects, and commercial small unmanned aircraft systems. Christine Wormuth, secretary of the Army, stated the Army remains deeply committed to our aviation portfolio and to our partners in the aviation industrial base." Advertisement Article continues below this ad While Sikorsky anticipates decades more work building Black Hawk helicopters and variants for the U.S. military and foreign countries, in 2022 the Army chose a Bell tilt-rotor called the V-280 Valor as its future workhorse for the eventual day when the Black Hawk is sidelined or phased out entirely. Analysts have cited the V-280's longer range as a key driver for the Army decision, in anticipation of any future conflicts in eastern Europe or the Pacific Rim where aircraft would have to traverse greater distances between bases. A Marine CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter flies during training at MCAS Miramar in San Diego, California on Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024. (K.C. Alfred/The San Diego Union-Tribune/TNS) K.C. Alfred/TNS As Connecticut-based Sikorsky goes full-tilt on manufacturing the CH-53K King Stallion for the U.S. Marine Corps, it is dealing with a fatal crash of the helicopter the Marines are phasing out in favor of the King Stallion. Five Marines died in the Tuesday crash of a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter, the Marines confirmed Thursday morning. The White House issued a statement from President Biden, describing he and First Lady Jill Biden as "heartbroken" for the loss of the Marines. The aircraft went down in mountain terrain near Pine Valley, Calif., while in flight from Creech Air Force Base northwest of Las Vegas to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar outside San Diego. Advertisement Article continues below this ad According to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, the crew was participating in a "routine training" flight. The Marines did not immediately release the names of the crash victims pending notification of family. "To the families of our fallen Marines, we send our deepest condolences and commit to ensuring your support and care during this incredibly difficult time," stated Maj. Gen. Michael Borgschulte, commanding general of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, in a prepared statement posted Thursday morning on Facebook. The U.S. Department of Defense has yet to list factors contributing to the crash. The Associated Press reported the helicopter was flying during an intense storm that hit southern California this week. Advertisement Article continues below this ad It was the third fatal crash of a Sikorsky-built helicopter in February. Four people died Sunday on a UH-60L Black Hawk in Colombia as the military helicopter approached for a landing, and two people died in a Saturday crash in Turkey of a Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawk operated by a police entity. In response to a CT Insider query, a Lockheed Martin spokesperson said the parent company extends "condolences to those affected" in the California crash on Tuesday and that safety is the "top priority" for Sikorsky and Lockheed Martin. The company is offering support to authorities as they investigate causes of the crash. The Navy uses a Super Stallion variant it calls the MH-53E Sea Dragon for maritime missions like mine sweeping. It was the first fatal crash of a CH-53E Super Stallion since April 2018, according to Aviation Safety Network's database of aviation incidents globally, when four Marines died in a California crash near the Mexico border. The year before, a CH-53E engine caught fire during a flight in Okinawa, forcing a landing that injured no one but with the fire engulfing the helicopter. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In 1996, the Navy grounded all CH-53E and MH-53E helicopters after a crash in Stratford that killed four Sikorsky employees, with the manufacturer owned at the time by United Technologies Corp. Four years later, the Department of Defense grounded the fleet after another crash that was blamed on a rotor bearing. A Florida supplier would subsequently plead guilty to falsifying inspection certificates on the bearings blamed for the crash. UTC sold Sikorsky in 2015 to Lockheed Martin, then merged itself in 2020 with Raytheon to form RTX. At last count, the Marine Corps reported a fleet of 152 CH-53E Super Stallion helicopters, which are equipped with General Electric engines. The Marines intend to operate the CH-53E fleet through 2025, after implementing a "Service Life Extension Program," as Sikorsky builds new CH-53K King Stallion helicopters in Stratford that are the largest ever flown by the U.S. military. Sikorsky enters "full-rate" production this year for the CH-53K King Stallion, with the Marines aiming for a fleet of 200 helicopters. Last August, the Department of Defense awarded Sikorsky a $2.7 billion contract to build 35 King Stallions through 2026, including eight aircraft to be sold to Israel. Advertisement Article continues below this ad New London Ledge Lighthouse is on the Thames River at the mouth of New London Harbor. Connecticut College, located nearby, revealed a data breach yesterday that it said resulted in the release of private information and social security numbers. Courtesy U.S. Lighthouse Society Archive A data breach at Connecticut College early last year resulted in the unauthorized release of personal information, including social security numbers, for an unspecified number of people affiliated with the private liberal arts college in New London, officials said Wednesday. Connecticut College is undertaking a thorough forensic investigation that includes leading cybersecurity experts to address a data security incident in which an unauthorized party accessed and/or acquired certain files maintained on the Colleges computer systems, the institution said in a statement. According to the statement, the breach was detected in March 2023 and prompted college officials to contact law enforcement and take steps to remediate the issue, as well as launch a third-party investigation. Advertisement Article continues below this ad None of the personal data released during the incident is believed to have been misused as a direct result of the breach, officials said, though the college said it would offer free credit monitoring services to those impacted as an added precaution. The statement did not say how many people were affected or had their data released as a result of the breach. A spokesperson for the college declined to comment Thursday on that, or why it took nearly a year to make the breach public, citing the ongoing investigation. Connecticut College, located on the banks of the Thames River, has an enrollment of 1,737 students, with 187 full-time professors. The breach of data is the latest involving an institution of higher education in Connecticut. More than 800,000 Connecticut residents had their personal data released as part of a national data breach from a Denver-based wellness program, whose clients included Yale New Haven Health. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Frank Zabski, left, and Kevin Begley are launching "Charred: A New Haven Pizza Show" on Feb. 9. The biweekly show will be on YouTube and all podcast platforms. Submitted photo / Frank Zabski Frank Zabski is one of the organizers of CT Pizza & Brew Fest and founder of New Haven Pizza School. CT Pizza & Brew Fest/Contributed As New Haven's apizza scene continues to gain national recognition, with recent writeups in the New York Times and Washington Post among others, local expert Frank Zabski is looking to parlay his own pizza enthusiasm and expertise into a new media venture. Zabski, who opened New Haven Pizza School in 2022, is launching "Charred: A New Haven Pizza Show" Friday with Kevin Begley, a radio host on Star 99.9 FM. The show, which will feature discussions about New Haven pizza and other Connecticut styles, will be available on YouTube and all podcast platforms. Begley was one of Zabski's first pizza students, he said. The two stayed in touch over time, and Begley later asked Zabski to be a part of the inaugural Connecticut Pizza & Brew Fest in Bridgeport last summer, which featured pizza and beer tastings and educational panels. They timed the "Charred" release with a press conference Friday, where they'll announce the date of this year's festival. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "The first episode is an intro it's about my experience, Kevin's experience, we kind of go over what makes New Haven-style pizza specific, like the char, the leoparding (baked spots on the crust)," Zabski said. "Then we ask people for their feedback." The second episode, which they'll release two weeks later, will feature Big Green Truck Pizza and Next Door founder Doug Coffin. Zabski said he and his co-host have a cumulative library of "about 100 topics" to chat about as they develop the show. Frank Zabski, left, and Kevin Begley, center are launching "Charred: A New Haven Pizza Show" on Feb. 9. The biweekly show will be on YouTube and all podcast platforms. Doug Coffin, founder of Big Green Truck Pizza and Next Door in New Haven, will be a guest on a future episode. Submitted photo / Frank Zabski Zabski said he and Begley plan to bring in a Regional Water Authority representative, for example, to "dispel some folklore about water" and how it affects pizza dough. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "Our focus will be New Haven style, but we're also going to have some Greek pizza, some bar pizza like Colony and Riko's...we're going to try to cover the gamut of things," he said. Zabski, a West Haven native, said he started his pizza career at age 12, working for his church's carnival and learning how to make pizza fritta, or fried dough with sauce and cheese. As an adult in 2012, he launched a pizza truck as a side project in addition to his career in information technology, and ran that for four years until he decided to step away from the industry. But his passion never subsided, and he channeled his interest into other outlets, launching a Facebook group, All About New Haven Style A'pizza (Ah-beetz) in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. The group now has more than 18,000 followers, who share their pizzamaking adventures and dining experiences. Zabski and his friends also started the Pizza Gavones YouTube channel a few years ago, where they reviewed pizzerias around the state as a comedic trio. "I don't have any pedigree to Wooster Street, or any of those places," he said. "But I've spent thousands of hours reading and researching, and I love history. And I love the history of how the immigrants came over here from Italy and brought this pizza with them, and it was a very simple recipe." Advertisement Article continues below this ad Frank Zabski, owner of the New Haven Pizza School, center, instructs Steve Bovee, left, of Simsbury as he works the dough during a pizza making class at the Next Door restaurant in New Haven on November 14, 2022. At right is Corinne Giarnella of Simsbury. Arnold Gold/Hearst Connecticut Media Zabski said he envisions "Charred" becoming a call-in type show, where listeners can interact with the hosts and share their own opinions and thoughts. He's hoping it becomes a premier space for apizza fans. Forbidden Llama, at 329-335 Main St. in Middletown, is one of many establishments around the state holding special events this month to commemorate Valentine's Day. Cassandra Day / Hearst Connecticut Media Valentine's Day may be associated with romance. But that doesn't mean the holiday is exclusively for couples. People who don't have a significant other can use the day as an opportunity to treat themselves, express appreciation for their friends or make new connections. Connecticut has dozens of events for single people who plan on socializing around Valentine's Day and want to avoid sticking out in a crowd of couples. Here are some Valentine's Day-themed events for singles in Connecticut. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Saturday, Feb. 10 The brewery is hosting a singles mixer from 1-5 p.m. on Feb. 10. Salt & Pepper food truck will serve burgers, fries and more at the event and musician Ali Kat will perform from 2-5 p.m. Attendees can also enter to win "romantic raffle package" and the winner will be revealed at the end of the event. 275 Dug Road, South Glastonbury Advertisement Article continues below this ad Saturday, Feb. 10 Hosted by the art studio Ase Kreationz, attendees will have the opportunity to make a new connection with someone while making ceramics. Attendees will engage in a series of brief, one-on-one conversations and will receive a complimentary glass of wine and charcuterie plate. This event starts at 7 p.m. and is reserved for people ages 25 and up. 145 Water St., Norwalk Advertisement Article continues below this ad Ticket price: $75 Sunday, Feb. 11 Who needs a significant other when you can snuggle with a baby animal? Got Your Goat Farm in Washington Depot is inviting people to come play with baby goats and make themselves a Valentine's Day gift. Attendees will make an air dry clay heart and press a baby goat's hoof print onto it. The event will last from noon to 4 p.m., with plenty of time to play with the goat herd and babies. Advertisement Article continues below this ad 59 Wheaton Road, Washington Depot Ticket price: $10 Sunday, Feb. 11 This Valentine's Day event at The Venue in Windsor Locks is for mothers and daughters only. Organizers will provide brunch and canvases for each age group and people of all ages are invited to attend. The event will also feature a photo booth and bounce house. Advertisement Article continues below this ad 5 National Drive, Windsor Locks Ticket price: $40 for adults, $25 for children ages 12 and under Tuesday, Feb. 13 Connecticut residents can celebrate Valentine's Day by learning some new moves and sipping champagne at a ballroom studio. Instructors at Fred Astaire Dance Studios in West Hartford will teach attendees the basics of salsa, bachata, tango and other styles of dance at 6:30 p.m. Champagne will be served after after the hour-long class. Advertisement Article continues below this ad 141 South Street, West Hartford Ticket price: $40 Wednesday, Feb. 14 Local matchmaker Jill Dunn will run a singles mixer at the Spacecat Brewing Company in Norwalk from 7-9 p.m. Attendees at the social event can socialize freely or participate in optional ice-breakers to make new friends or meet their potential partner. They can also purchase a "wingman" ticket and bring a friend to help them feel more comfortable at the mixer. Singles of all ages are welcome to attend, but Dunn said people who attend her events are usually between the ages of 30-55. Advertisement Article continues below this ad 57 Chestnut Street, Norwalk Ticket price: $50 for general admission, $45 for wingman tickets Wednesday, Feb. 14 Forget about love for a night and spend Valentine's Day at a comedy show at Dangle's Bar and Grill in New Haven. The show will be hosted by Park City Comedy and will feature headliner Davey Lozana, as well as Shaquana Cochran and Ben Kirsch. Doors open for dinner at 6 p.m. and the comedy show begins at 8 p.m. Advertisement Article continues below this ad 259 Orange Street, New Haven Ticket price: $15 Thursday, Feb. 15 Queen's Lounge is presenting a comedy show at Armada Brewing the night after Valentine's Day with comedian Maggie Lalley. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m. Audience members should arrive early to get dinner and drinks as food won't be served during the show. Advertisement Article continues below this ad 190 River Street, New Haven Ticket price: $20 Thursday, Feb. 15 Jazzy's Cabaret will host a party on Feb. 15 to celebrate love and friendship after Valentine's Day. The event will begin at 7 p.m. with a four-course meal and 90 minutes of bottomless champagne and wine, followed by dancing with music from a live band and photo booths. Advertisement Article continues below this ad 4 Orange Street, New Haven Ticket price: Party only $20, four-course dinner $65 Saturday, Feb. 17 Connecticut Contacts, which hosts singles' dance parties throughout the state, is inviting singles to dance and socialize in The Amber Room Colonnade's grand ballroom from 6:30-11:30 p.m. The event will have a dinner buffet and feature live music from the DJ, who will play pop hits as well as a mix of Latin and Brazilian music. Advertisement Article continues below this ad CT Contacts will also host a singles dance party at Brownson Country Club in Shelton on Feb. 24 at 7 p.m. 1 Stacey Road, Danbury Ticket price: $42, cash only. Payable at the door. Sunday, Feb 18. The Forbidden Llama is hosting a special brunch on Feb. 18 to help singles forget about love and indulge in brunch with their friends. Brunch is offered to customers 21 and up and is divided in waves: 12-3 p.m., 3-6 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. Customers should make reservations for a three-hour time slot by texting the restaurant or visiting the website. Advertisement Article continues below this ad 335 Main St. Middletown Speed Dating hosted by Hartford County Speed Dating Various dates and locations Hartford County Speed Dating hosts in-person speed dating events across Connecticut, with each event catered to a specific age rage. Attendees must purchase a ticket beforehand and bring a smartphone, as they will use Google Forms to name people they'd like to meet again. The first round of speed dating begins at 7 p.m. and each attendee gets a complimentary drink with their $40 ticket. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Friday, Feb. 9, 6:30-9 p.m., ages 21-35, WeHa Brewing & Roasting Company, 141 Shield Street, West Hartford Wednesday, Feb. 14, 6:30-9 p.m., ages 25-39, Elicit Brewing Co., 165 Adams Street, Manchester Friday, Feb. 16, 6:30-9 p.m., ages 55+, The Elbow Room, 986 Farmington Avenue, West Hartford Saturday, Feb. 17, 6:30-9 p.m., ages 30-45, Concentric Brewing Company, 91 Main Street, Portland Infowars owner Alex Jones is questioned by Sandy Hook families' attorney Chris Mattei during testimony at a defamation damages trial in Connecticut Superior Court at Waterbury, Conn. Thursday, Sept. 22, 2022. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Norm Pattis, attorney for conspiracy theorist Alex Jones, gives his opening statement in Jones trial at Waterbury Superior Court, Tuesday morning, Sept. 13, 2022, in Waterbury, Conn. H. John Voorhees III / Hearst Connecticut Media file photo The states appeals court heard from both sides Thursday about the $1.5 billion Alex Jones was ordered to pay Sandy Hook families he defamed in a Connecticut case, and now will decide if the 2022 verdict that made headlines across the nation will stand. Norm Pattis, the high-profile New Haven attorney who defended Jones during a three-week trial in Waterbury and filed Jones appeal said on Thursday that the challenge had plenty of merit. If the court follows the law, yes, Pattis said after a late morning hearing before Connecticuts Appellate Court in Hartford. But the Sandy Hook case gets special solicitude. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Pattis formal written argument submitted to the appeals court late last year says as much, likening the trial judge to a conspiracy theorist and suggesting that compassion for Sandy Hook families deprived Jones of impartial treatment when a Waterbury jury ordered him to pay $965 million in damages. Superior Court Judge Barbara Bellis tacked on another $473 million in punitive damages and attorney fees. Pattis in his formal argument goes on to call the October 2022 jury trial in Waterbury that stunned observers with the size of the award a horrible case of litigation lotto that called into question the integrity of the Connecticut judicial system. Lawyers who represented the families could not disagree more, and told the appellate judges so during oral arguments on Thursday. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Josh Koskoff, whose colleague Alinor Sterling made oral arguments Thursday, declined to characterize the hearing, except to say he was confident that the appellate panel would uphold the lower courts decision. In the Sandy Hook families lawyers own formal written argument to the appeals court in November, the families argue that, [H]aving abused the judicial process to a degree unprecedented in American jurisprudence, Jones comes to this court seeking an opportunity to continue his abuse. Enough is enough. The families formal argument in support of upholding the jury verdict argues, in part, Jones complains of nearly every ruling without showing error as to any. He completely mischaracterizes the record accusing plaintiffs of foul play and the trial judge of 'pretextual reasoning,' 'willful blindness,' 'bizarre' rulings, and presiding over a 'farce,'" the argument reads. These mischaracterizations are no accident they are Jones self-marketing in action. Once the appeals court reaches a ruling, that ruling is subject to appeal to the Connecticut Supreme Court. A similar appeals process is ongoing in Texas where Jones was ordered to pay parents of a slain Sandy Hook boy $49 million. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Jones was sued in both states after he called the 2012 shooting of 26 first-graders and educators at Sandy Hook Elementary School staged, synthetic, manufactured, a giant hoax, and completely fake with actors. Jones has been in personal bankruptcy for over a year as his fortune has dwindled. That case may soon come to an end, although much depends on what happens with the appeals in Connecticut and Texas. A federal bankruptcy judge in Texas has set a deadline on Monday for families' attorneys to vote on competing bankruptcy deals to either make Jones sell everything or accept his offer to pay them a fraction of what he owes. The choice is between a Jones offer to pay them $55 million over 10 years or their own option to liquidate his estate. If Jones sold everything his assets would bring no more than $10 million, according to a liquidation analysis filed with bankruptcy Judge Christopher Lopez. Once expenses are covered and lawyers are paid, between $3 million and $4 million would be left for the families, the analysis says. Advertisement Article continues below this ad State Superior Court in Stamford in a file photo. A Bridgeport teenager charged as an adult has pleaded guilty in connection with a gunfire incident in South Norwalk. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media STAMFORD A Bridgeport teenager has pleaded guilty in a November 2022 shooting in South Norwalk that sent two schools in the area into lockdown. Naiim Jones pleaded guilty in state Superior Court in Stamford Thursday to first-degree reckless endangerment, illegal alteration of a firearm, carrying a pistol without a permit, possession of a large-capacity magazine. He also pleaded guilty to possession of narcotics with intent to sell police found crack cocaine bagged for sale in Jones' possession at the time he was apprehended. Under his agreement with prosecutors, Jones faces a sentence of three years in prison followed by three years' probation, with the possibility of up to eight years behind bars if he violates the terms of his release. Advertisement Article continues below this ad He is due to be sentenced on May 10. Jones was arrested as a minor but charged in adult court when the case was transferred last year to the Part A docket in Stamford, where the most serious matters are heard. The Nov. 9, 2022, shooting on Merritt Place in South Norwalk sent both Concord Magnet School and Side by Side Charter School into lockdown. Norwalk police said the incident occurred around 12:15 p.m. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Police said they were called to the area near the Open Doors shelter for a report of shots fired. Three males were seen running away from the scene by police, a report said. No one was injured by the gunfire. Police later stopped Jones, who was in possession of a gun as well as the packaged crack cocaine. Officers also located 18-year-old Jahmari Rodriguez of Bridgeport and 19-year-old Jermaine Joseph of Norwalk. The two men were hiding in the mouth of a woodchipper. Two other guns were found in the bushes nearby. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Hong Kong: Govt rejects US interference The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today firmly opposed and strongly condemned a joint statement made by four former consuls general of the US to Hong Kong in relation to a case involving Lai Chee-ying, and the US Consulate General in Hong Kong for posting the statement. In response to the statement, the Hong Kong SAR Government said that any attempt to interfere in the citys judicial proceedings by means of political power, media or any other means, thereby resulting in a defendant not being able to have a fair trial that one should receive, is a reprehensible act undermining the rule of law of Hong Kong. Making a statement with the intent to interfere with or obstruct the course of justice, or engaging in conduct with the same intent, is very likely to constitute the offence of criminal contempt of court or the offence of perverting the course of justice. Moreover, the Hong Kong SAR Government stressed that the citys law enforcement agencies have been taking enforcement actions based on evidence and strictly in accordance with the law in respect of the acts of the people or entities concerned, adding that such actions have nothing to do with their political stance, background or occupation. It also made it clear that the suggestion that certain individuals or groups should be immune from legal consequences for their illegal acts is no different from advocating a special pass to break the law, and this totally runs contrary to the spirit of the rule of law. Apart from strongly urging the US and the former consuls general to discern facts from fallacies, the Hong Kong SAR Government stated that they should stop interfering in Hong Kongs internal affairs and Hong Kong courts independent exercise of judicial power. This story has been published on: 2024-02-09. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. A gavel in a file photo. Abiola Shonowo, 29, of Maryland, was sentenced to 20 years in prison, suspended after 5 years served, for stabbing a Lyft driver in June 2022. Getty Images / Contributed A 29-year-old Maryland man who pleaded guilty to stabbing a Lyft driver in 2022 while in Darien was sentenced Thursday, according to officials. Abiola Shonowo was sentenced to 20 years prison, suspended after five years served, followed by five years' probation, according to Assistant State's Attorney Margaret Moscati. Shonowo stabbed the driver several times after he was picked up in Stamford and they were on their way to his destination in Norwalk, according to Darien police. They said the driver intentionally crashed his car into a tree to stop Shonowo from attacking him. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Police said Shonowo fled the scene with the driver's cellphone, and was identified as a suspect after detectives looked through phone records and the car service's account. The department learned that Shonowo had been arrested in Baltimore County on July 4, 2022, on a violation of probation charge, police said. He was extradited to Connecticut to be charged with first-degree robbery, attempt to commit first-degree assault and fourth-degree larceny, police said. Shonowo pleaded guilty in December 2023 to first-degree robbery and first-degree attempted assault before Judge Gary White. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Moscati said at sentencing that during the pre-sentence interview, Shonowo stated that the driver was not nice, and aggressive, and did not listen to him so he got mad and stabbed him." Michelle Troconis appears in court on day 20 of her criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Michelle Troconis, right, appears in court with her defense attorneys Jon Schoenhorn, left, and Audrey Felsen on day 20 of Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Michelle Troconis appears in court on day 20 of her criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Michelle Troconis appears in court on day 20 of her criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Mark Newth, of the Connecticut state forensic science lab, testifies about location data recovered from vehicles of interest on day 20 of Michelle Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Fairfield Police Det. Michael Clark testifies regarding data recovered from Fotis Dulos' cell phone on day 20 of Michelle Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Michelle Troconis appears in court on day 20 of her criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Michelle Troconis' defense attorney Jon Schoenhorn appears in court on day 20 of Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Michelle Troconis, right, and defense attorney Audrey Felsen appear in court on day 20 of Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Mark Newth, of the Connecticut state forensic science lab, testifies about location data recovered from vehicles of interest on day 20 of Michelle Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Mark Newth, of the Connecticut state forensic science lab, testifies about location data recovered from vehicles of interest on day 20 of Michelle Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Michelle Troconis appears in court on day 20 of her criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Mark Newth, of the Connecticut state forensic science lab, testifies about location data recovered from vehicles of interest on day 20 of Michelle Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Fairfield Police Det. Michael Clark testifies regarding data recovered from Fotis Dulos' cell phone on day 20 of Michelle Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Messaging data recovered from Fotis Dulos' cell phone shows six messages received between 7:18 a.m. and 1:26 p.m. but not opened until 1:33 p.m. on the day of Jennifer Dulos' disappearance on day 20 of Michelle Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Fairfield Police Det. Michael Clark testifies regarding data recovered from Fotis Dulos' cell phone on day 20 of Michelle Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Location data recovered from Fotis Dulos' cell phone shows travel through Albany Avenue in Hartford the evening of Jennifer Dulos' disappearance on day 20 of Michelle Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media STAMFORD A state digital forensic expert testified at the trial for Michelle Troconis on Thursday that a cellphone suspected to belong to Jennifer Dulos connected to her car several hours after she was last seen and Fotis Dulos was alleged to have left New Canaan to drive back to Farmington. Mark Newth, a member of the Connecticut State Forensic Labs Computer Crimes and Electronic Evidence team, told jurors he was enlisted by state police investigators to perform forensic evaluations on several cars connected with the presumed death and disappearance of Jennifer Dulos in 2019. Newth was tasked with analyzing the infotainment systems from Fotis Dulos Ford Raptor and Jennifer Dulos Chevrolet Suburban, which was found abandoned on Lapham Road in New Canaan on May 24, 2019. The systems, he said, often contain valuable information such as the GPS coordinates of the vehicle, as well as the call log history of phones connected to the vehicle. Advertisement Article continues below this ad During his analysis of Jennifer Dulos Suburban, Newth said he noticed that the last time a phone connected with the vehicle was at 2:56 p.m. on May 24, 2019. Defense attorney Jon Schoenhorn previously said he thinks the phone belonged to Jennifer Dulos, who police believe already was dead or incapacitated by the time that phone connected to the vehicle. Newth testified that the phone likely would have had to have been within 50 feet of the car in order to connect, and the car would have had to have had its power on for the phone to connect. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Jennifer Dulos was reported missing at 6:59 p.m. that day, and the Suburban was found on Lapham Road around 7 p.m., according to Troconis arrest warrant. Police investigators testified earlier in the trial that the car was found unoccupied, with its running lights left on and its transmission left in reverse. The timing of the alleged connection is curious as police believe Jennifer Dulos was either killed or seriously injured in the garage of her Welles Lane home earlier that day. Schoenhorn said after the morning session Thursday that the revelation raises questions about the phone. Who had it? Who was either in or near her vehicle with it at that time? Schoenhorn asked. I dont have an answer for that, but we know that Mr. Dulos was not there here and we know my client wasnt there. Advertisement Article continues below this ad While Schoenhorn claims the phone belonged to Jennifer Dulos, Supervisory Assistant States Attorney Michelle Manning previously said there was no way to prove who owned the phone that connected to the vehicle. Manning asked Newth whether there was any way to prove the phone belonged to Jennifer Dulos, or someone else, such as longtime Dulos nanny Lauren Almeida. He replied that there wasnt, based on the information from the car. The phone only was listed under the generic name iPhone in the cars system, according to Newths report, which was shown to jurors Thursday. The phones most recent calls, which were captured by the cars infotainment system, showed missed calls from Gloria Farber, who is Jennifer Dulos mother, and a man named Duane Lavold on May 23. The call log also showed a call that day with Caroline Luft, a close friend of Jennifer Dulos. The final call recorded in the log was outgoing call to a Dr. Roy Geronomus at 7:54 a.m. on the morning Jennifer Dulos disappeared. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Schoenhorn pointed out that, if investigators wanted to, they could have pulled Jennifer Dulos phone records to try to identify whether the phone in question was hers. Manning, however, implied that perhaps the phone in question had been abandoned in the nearby woods at Waveny Park. Newth also testified Thursday about GPS data he obtained from Fotis Dulos' Ford Raptor, which was being driven by his former employee Pawel Gumienny on the morning of May 24. The data obtained from the car appeared to corroborate large parts of Gumiennys testimony from earlier in the week. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Newth pointed out that at 7:55 a.m. on May 24, 2019, the Raptor had been started and put into gear outside Gumiennys home in Simsbury. The next time the car pops up, according to the data, was at 9:53 a.m. that day, when the car was placed in park outside of the home at 61 Sturbridge Hill Road in New Canaan. The data showed that the car remained at that location until 12:30 p.m., Newth testified. Schoenhorn, however, wasnt convinced. Schoenhorn pointed out that the information obtained from the Raptor only showed that the car was at Sturbridge Hill Road at 9:53 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., but it showed nothing of the period between the two times. Newth testified he couldnt say with certainty that the car had remained at Sturbridge Hill Road in the interim, though he pointed out that the two GPS data points showed the car in the exact same location. Advertisement Article continues below this ad He wouldve had to park in the exact same spot, Newth said Thursday. Schoenhorn also took aim at the fact that data extracted from the car failed to show the cars whereabouts from the time it left Sturbridge Hill Road at 12:30 p.m., and when it next popped up on GPS at a gas station in Farmington at 4:21 p.m. Newth said the gap in information likely was due to memory being overwritten on the cars computer, which he said is a common occurrence. Schoenhorn, instead, asked whether it was possible that someone manually turned off the GPS monitoring. Newth replied that while he did not think that was possible, he was not certain. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Prosecutors also explored data collected from Fotis Dulos phones during Thursdays morning session. Fairfield police Detective Michael Clark took the stand Thursday afternoon. He was tasked with analyzing data from two of Fotis Dulos cellphones in May 2019. Manning asked Clark about data collected from one phone between 5:35 a.m. and 12:22 p.m. on May 24, 2019. Location data showed the phone remained in the area of 4 Jefferson Crossing in Farmington during that time. Messaging data showed the phone received messages as early as 7:37 a.m. that day. Other text and instant messages came in at 8:36 a.m., 9:02 a.m., 10:12 a.m. and 1:26 p.m. It wasnt until 1:33 p.m. that some of the messages were opened or viewed, Clark testified. Advertisement Article continues below this ad One of the messages received by Fotis Dulos' cellphone at about 10:20 a.m. May 24, 2019 was a meme video showing a middle-aged man being asked a question. "You have two choices," a female voice off-screen says. "A, you can spend the rest of your life with your wife, or B..." "B!" the man interrupts to shout. Clark also testified about a second phone belonging to Fotis Dulos, drawing attention to the device's location data from May 29, 2019, the day that Fotis Dulos and Troconis allegedly had Gumienny's Toyota Tacoma washed and detailed. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Location data for about an hour that afternoon had been marked "deleted" in a data extraction report, but Clark said he didn't know why. "It could have been through user interaction but just based on this alone I'm not able to tell that," he said. The testimony from forensic analysts came a day after Gumienny, a former employee of Fotis Dulos' real estate development company whose pickup truck police allege was used in the crime, spent the past two days testifying about what he knew about the May 24, 2019, disappearance. Gumienny testified about comments Troconis allegedly made about Jennifer Dulos around the time Dulos disappeared and the behavior of Fotis Dulos, who he said pressured him to remove the seats from his Toyota Tacoma in the days after Jennifer Dulos vanished. A forensic expert testified on Monday that Jennifer Dulos' DNA was found on one of the Tacoma seats. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Gumienny was granted immunity and was not charged with hindering prosecution in exchange for his cooperation in the investigation and prosecution of others charged in the disappearance. Thursday marked the 20th day of trial for Troconis, who is facing charges of conspiracy to commit murder, tampering with evidence and hindering prosecution. She is accused of trying to create an alibi for her former boyfriend, Fotis Dulos, the morning his estranged wife went missing and helping to clean Gumienny's pickup truck. Mark Newth, of the Connecticut state forensic science lab, testifies about location data recovered from vehicles of interest on day 20 of Michelle Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Mark Newth, of the Connecticut state forensic science lab, testifies about location data recovered from vehicles of interest on day 20 of Michelle Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Fairfield Police Det. Michael Clark testifies regarding data recovered from Fotis Dulos' cell phone on day 20 of Michelle Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Michelle Troconis appears in court on day 20 of her criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Mark Newth, of the Connecticut state forensic science lab, testifies about location data recovered from vehicles of interest on day 20 of Michelle Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Fairfield Police Det. Michael Clark testifies regarding data recovered from Fotis Dulos' cell phone on day 20 of Michelle Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Fairfield Police Det. Michael Clark testifies regarding data recovered from Fotis Dulos' cell phone on day 20 of Michelle Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Michelle Troconis appears in court on day 20 of her criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Michelle Troconis appears in court on day 20 of her criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Michelle Troconis appears in court on day 20 of her criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Michelle Troconis appears in court on day 19 of her criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media STAMFORD The Michelle Troconis trial in the 2019 death and disappearance of New Canaan mother Jennifer Dulos enters its 20th day on Thursday. Pawel Gumienny, a former employee of Fotis Dulos' real estate development company whose pickup truck police said was used in the crime, spent the past two days testifying about what he knew about the May 24, 2019 disappearance. Gumienny testified about comments Troconis made about Jennifer Dulos around the time she disappeared and the behavior of Fotis Dulos, who he said pressured him to remove the seats in his Toyota Tacoma in the days after his estranged wife vanished. A forensic expert testified on Monday that Jennifer Dulos' DNA was found on one of the Tacoma seats. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Troconis, 49, who is facing charges of conspiracy to commit murder, tampering with evidence and hindering prosecution, is accused of trying to create an alibi for her former boyfriend, Fotis Dulos, the morning his estranged wife went missing and helping to clean Gumienny's pickup truck. Fotis Dulos died by suicide in January 2020 while facing murder and other charges in the case. Jennifer Dulos has never been found, but she has been declared legally dead. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Here's a look at what's happening Thursday on Day 20 of the Troconis trial at the Stamford courthouse: On cross-examination, Schoenhorn showed information from an extraction report that appeared to show Fotis Dulos' cellphone moved 15 steps between 4:24 and 4:52 a.m. May 24, 2019, using data from the phone's Health app. "Are you able to determine just from these statistics why it would take almost 30 minutes to move 15 steps?" he asked Clark. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "No, I am not," Clark said. At 1:19 p.m., the phone moved 427 steps, according to the report. After Clark stepped down about 4:35 p.m., Judge Kevin Randolph adjourned the trial until Tuesday at 10 a.m. Michelle Troconis, right, appears in court with her defense attorneys Jon Schoenhorn, left, and Audrey Felsen on day 20 of Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Manning asked Clark about his examination of a second phone belonging to Fotis Dulos, drawing attention to the device's location data from May 29, 2019. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Location data for about an hour that afternoon had been marked "deleted" in a data extraction report, but Clark said he didn't know why. "It could have been through user interaction but just based on this alone I'm not able to tell that," he said. Fairfield Police Det. Michael Clark testifies regarding data recovered from Fotis Dulos' cell phone on day 20 of Michelle Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media With Clark on the stand, Manning played videos he had created using GPS data from Fotis Dulos' phone showing the phone's movements throughout the day. Advertisement Article continues below this ad One portion showed the phone moving across the large lawn and woods on the property owned by the Fore Group on Mountain Spring Road in Farmington at about 2:25 p.m. Another clip appeared to coincide with the movements of Fotis Dulos and Troconis the evening of Jennifer Dulos' disappearance, when police believe Fotis Dulos was disposing of trash connected to his wife's killing on Albany Avenue in Hartford. One of the messages received by Fotis Dulos' cellphone at about 10:20 a.m. May 24, 2019 was a meme video showing a middle-aged man being asked a question. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "You have two choices," a female voice off-screen says. "A, you can spend the rest of your life with your wife, or B..." "B!" the man interrupts to shout. Manning asked Clark about phone calls from Fotis Dulos' cellphone the day of his estranged wife's disappearance. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A 7:16 a.m. call to Fotis Dulos' device during the same timeframe went unanswered, Clark said, but an 8:26 a.m. call was answered. In arrest warrants, police said the call was "pre-arranged" from a friend of Fotis Dulos, and was answered inside Dulos' Farmington home by Troconis, who was there with co-defendant Kent Mawhinney. Clark testified that the call lasted for 17 seconds. Other calls from the time frame were not answered, Clark said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "Call me tomorrow morning (at) mine and we'll talk," Fotis sent the caller the day before in a WhatsApp message written in Greek, Clark testified. Messaging data recovered from Fotis Dulos' cell phone shows six messages received between 7:18 a.m. and 1:26 p.m. but not opened until 1:33 p.m. on the day of Jennifer Dulos' disappearance on day 20 of Michelle Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Manning asked Clark about data collected from one phone between 5:35 a.m. and 12:22 p.m. on May 24, 2019. Location data showed the phone remained in the area of 4 Jefferson Crossing in Farmington during that time. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Messaging data showed the phone received messages as early as 7:37 a.m. that day. Other text and instant messages came in at 8:36 a.m., 9:02 a.m., 10:12 a.m. and 1:26 p.m. It wasnt until 1:33 p.m. that some of the messages were opened and viewed on the device, Clark testified. Schoenhorn also commented on the testimony of Gumienny, saying the fact that Gumiennys lawyer, Lindy Urso, reached his immunity agreement with the state was the difference between why Gumienny is not on trial and my client is. Advertisement Article continues below this ad I think that what came out loud and clear is several days after the disappearance of Jennifer Dulos, both my client and Mr. Gumienny assumed she was still alive, he said. As far as Im concerned, that is certainly the dispositive factor when it come to the charge of conspiracy to commit murder. Michelle Troconis appears in court on day 20 of her criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media At the lunch break, Schoenhorn said the main takeaway of the day so far was, "Why and how did Jennifer Dulos cellphone or iPhone attach to her vehicle?" Advertisement Article continues below this ad "Who had it?" he said, referring to the testimony about the phone that connected to her Chevy Suburban the afternoon of her disappearance. "Who was either in or near her vehicle with it at that time?" Schoenhorn said. "I dont have an answer for that, but we know that Mr. Dulos was not there, and we know my client wasnt there." Fairfield Police Det. Michael Clark testifies regarding data recovered from Fotis Dulos' cell phone on day 20 of Michelle Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media After Newth finished testifying, Manning called to the stand Fairfield police Detective Michael Clark at about 12:15 p.m. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Clark testified that hes a qualified digital forensic examiner trained in extracting data from cellphones and a member of the Technical Investigation Unit, a lab in Weston where police inspect electronic devices. He said a New Canaan detective he knew reached out to him May 26, 2019, asking him to extract information from Fotis Dulos' cellphone after police obtained a search warrant for the device. Fairfield Police Det. Michael Clark testifies regarding data recovered from Fotis Dulos' cell phone on day 20 of Michelle Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Schoenhorn, who referred to the phone that connected to Jennifer Dulos' Suburban the afternoon of her disappearance earlier in the trial, asked Newth about the data he extracted from the vehicle in the days following her disappearance. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The lawyer cited a computer file Newth forwarded to investigators May 30, 2019, that showed a missed call on May 23, 2019, from Gloria Farber, Jennifer Dulos' mother, as well as an outgoing call on that date to Carrie Luft, a close friend of Jennifer Dulos who since has become a spokesperson for the family. There was also a call to a doctor at about 7:54 a.m. from May 24, 2019, but Newth said he couldn't be sure whether the call was made in the vehicle. Jennifer Dulos, whose iPhone has never been found, had medical appointments scheduled that day. Schoenhorn asked whether Newth determined the call data in question was from the same phone as the phone that connected to the Suburban at nearly 3 p.m. "Yes, that's correct," Newth said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Mark Newth, of the Connecticut state forensic science lab, testifies about location data recovered from vehicles of interest on day 20 of Michelle Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Cross-examining Newth, Schoenhorn asked whether the data showing the Raptor at the project home in New Canaan was constant. Newth said it was not there were three data points, at 9:53 a.m., 12:21 p.m. and 12:30 p.m. on May 24, 2019, showing it at the Sturbridge Hill Road home. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "Do you have any way of knowing what happened between 9:54 a.m. and 12:21 p.m.?" Schoenhorn asked. "Im sorry, I do not have any way of knowing," Newth said. Michelle Troconis' defense attorney Jon Schoenhorn appears in court on day 20 of Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Manning next asked about data from Jennifer Dulos' 2017 Chevy Suburban, in which she last was seen dropping off her kids at school the morning of her disappearance. There wasn't GPS data available, Newth said, but the vehicle's computer showed a phone connecting to it at 2:56 p.m. the afternoon of May 24, 2019. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The infotainment system has to be powered on in order for the connection to be made, Newth said, and a device has to be within 50 feet of the vehicle. Newth testified it appeared that the first time the phone paired to the vehicle was July 2018. The device was called "iPhone," and Newth said he couldn't tell whose phone it was. "I can only testify to what the data tells me," Newth said about such Bluetooth connections later. "The data tells me a connection was made." Michelle Troconis appears in court on day 20 of her criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media For the days of May 23 and May 24, 2019, which Newth said was the "time frame of interest" he received from investigators, the Raptor's computer had a "spotty data set." Advertisement Article continues below this ad He plotted what GPS locations were available from the period in a report with maps. On the day of Jennifer Dulos' disappearance, the GPS data showed the Raptor at the home of Fore Group employee Pawel Gumienny in Simsbury, before it turned up at 9:53 a.m. at the project home Gumienny testified he drove to that morning, where the vehicle remained until 12:30 p.m. Newth said there was no data for the vehicle between 7:55 and 9:53 a.m. He testified earlier that the missing data likely was because the computer's hard drive was old. Michelle Troconis, right, and defense attorney Audrey Felsen appear in court on day 20 of Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media Newth said he physically removed the infotainment systems in vehicles connected to the case at the New Canaan Police Department, then turned them over to police detectives to submit to the lab formally. Advertisement Article continues below this ad One of the vehicles was Fotis Dulos' Ford Raptor, Newth said. "We removed it and later examined it." The data extracted from the device wasn't totally complete, he said, which was not unusual. "This was a case where we got some GPS data but we have patches in time that are missing," Newth said. Mark Newth, of the Connecticut state forensic science lab, testifies about location data recovered from vehicles of interest on day 20 of Michelle Troconis' criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. Troconis is on trial for charges related to the disappearance and death of New Canaan resident Jennifer Dulos. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media The first witness of the day, called by Supervisory Assistant State's Attorney Michelle Manning, is Mark Newth, an employee of the state forensic lab who works with electronic evidence. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "We examine data from electronic devices, primarily cellphones, computers, laptops, tablets, things like that," Newth said, noting he also works with "vehicle forensics" using onboard computers in cars and trucks that have information such as GPS and cellphone linking data. Location data from Fotis Dulos' cellphone and information from his Ford Raptor were critical to investigators in the case, according to testimony thus far. After Thursday, the trial will resume on Tuesday. One of the attorneys in the case has a conflict on Friday, and Monday is a court holiday for Lincoln's birthday. Parents, students and Norwalk Public Schools community members gathered in front of City Hall on Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024 to show support for the Concord Magnet School Principal Medard Thomas, who for over two months has been on paid administrative leave without prejudice. Kalleen Rose Ozanic/Hearst Connecticut Media Nicole Chu was among the Norwalk parents to gather in front of City Hall on Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024 to show support for Concord Magnet School Principal Medard Thomas, who for over two months has been on paid administrative leave without prejudice. Kalleen Rose Ozanic/Hearst Connecticut Media Parents, students and Norwalk Public Schools community members gathered in front of City Hall on Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024 to show support for Concord Magnet School Principal Medard Thomas, who for over two months has been on paid administrative leave without prejudice. Kalleen Rose Ozanic/Hearst Connecticut Media Lillian Cenatiempo, mother of twin second graders at Concord Magnet School in Norwalk, supported Principal Medard Thomas at a demonstration Feb. 6, 2024. Kalleen Rose Ozanic/Hearst Connecticut Media Parents, students and Norwalk Public Schools community members gathered in front of City Hall on Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024 to show support for the Concord Magnet School Principal Medard Thomas, who for over two months has been on paid administrative leave without prejudice. Kalleen Rose Ozanic/Hearst Connecticut Media Parents, students and Norwalk Public Schools community members gathered in front of City Hall on Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024 to show support for Concord Magnet School Principal Medard Thomas, who for over two months has been on paid administrative leave without prejudice. Kalleen Rose Ozanic/Hearst Connecticut Media Parents, students and Norwalk Public Schools community members gathered in front of City Hall on Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024 to show support for the Concord Magnet School Principal Medard Thomas, who for over two months has been on paid administrative leave without prejudice. Kalleen Rose Ozanic/Hearst Connecticut Media NORWALK Chanting "We want Mr. T!," a crowd of about 30 demonstrators called on Tuesday for a beloved magnet school principal to return to work. Parents, students and Norwalk Public Schools community members gathered in front of City Hall on Tuesday night to show support for Concord Magnet School Principal Medard Thomas, who for over two months has been on paid administrative leave without prejudice, Superintendent of Schools Alexandra Estrella said in a notice to parents in late 2023. The demonstrators, bundled in layers of winterwear and holding signs of support, said they want Thomas to return to his post, which he has been on leave from since Nov. 29. Norwalk schools declined to comment last week on Thomas' leave, citing a personnel matter. The reason for his leave is unclear. Advertisement Article continues below this ad We're hoping to find a timeline of when Mr. T will be coming back, said Nicole Chu, mother of a second grader at CMS. We've had no communication and no resolution. So, we want answers. Some of those same demonstrators, parents and their children, left the below-freezing temperatures outside to join the school boards business meeting. All public comments spoken during the meeting supported Thomas, either urging his return or to quicken the investigation into what the district called the pending consideration of a personnel matter in a Dec. 8 statement. Lynne Moore, principal at Norwalk High School and president of the Norwalk Association of School Administrators, said we do not even know what Medard is facing in her public comment. Advertisement Article continues below this ad He was not interviewed by a lawyer from the districts law firm until Jan. 18, 2024, Moore said. Medard has been on leave for 10 weeks, one whole quarter of the school year. Nick Dua, NPS communications and marketing director, said the district could not confirm the timeline at this point. As you know, we consider personnel matters to be confidential and we have no further comment at this time regarding the nature of the personnel matter or the length of his leave. However, we are working promptly to resolve the matter, the districts December statement said. In her message to parents, Estrella said that Mr. Thomas has not been terminated or disciplined in any way by Norwalk Public Schools, and that his leave is consistent with our practices in personnel matters. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Kelly-Beth McNicholas, whos daughter is a second grader at CMS, said the wait for the schools amazing administrator and educator to return needs to come to an end. Parents at the demonstration overwhelmingly said that Thomas lights up the school with his warmth and rapport with his students. Only positive energy, said Cindy Belopavlovic, whose son, Stefan, is a 5th grader at CMS. He's always smiling. He knows every child's name. He knows when their birthday is. In fact, Stefans birthday was Tuesday. Stefan said that while he did get birthday wishes over the morning announcements, it wasnt the same without Thomas, who parents said normally reads out birthdays on the morning announcements. Advertisement Article continues below this ad It was sad, Stefan said. We need him, said Emilie Forcellina, another CMS parent. Thomas is the heart and soul of Concord Magnet School, said Chu, adding that its difficult to have no answers when a child asks where their principal is. It's very frustrating for us, Chu said, noting that its frustrating for the kids, too. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Overall, parents said that while they recognized the confidentiality of the personnel matter, they wanted to know the timeline of the process and for it to be dealt with expeditiously. We do hope the Board of Education ensures that this matter is handled quickly and appropriately, said Jim Drury, whose twin sons James and John are CMS fifth graders. Assistant Principal Hennifer Scanlan has been serving as interim principal at Concord Magnet School since Thomas leave began, the district said in December. Before coming to Norwalk Public Schools, Thomas held several school administration positions across Bridgeport, Greenwich and New York over 20 years. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Sgt. Sal Calise of the Norwalk Police Department said before the demonstration began that there were four officers in cruisers posted outside of City Hall. Police are here just to keep the peace, Calise said. We're not going to interfere with anything as long as everybody's respectful. Theres a new cow cafe coming to Nellysford. Belties, an interactive breakfast and coffee drive-thru restaurant, gives guests a chance to see and experience miniature cattle. Scott Defusco and John Washburn have been planning their new business for two years and are hoping to open in the fall. There will be two female and two male belties on the property. Their names are Belle, Buttercup, Bramble and Biscuit. Belties, also known as Miniature Belted Galloways, originate from Ireland and Scotland. At full size, they will only be about 450 pounds while a regular Belted Galloway weighs about 1,500 pounds. The two females that came first, came from a different breeder than the males, who came about two months later. From day one, when we integrated them into the same paddock. They just became one, like they grew up together. Defusco told The Nelson County Times. When Defusco and Washburn sold their companies in 2019-20, they started thinking about what they could do together. Thats when they came up with the idea for their new endeavor. John and Ive been friends for a while and we wanted to do something together. We were thinking the same thing. Whats missing? What became really obvious is theres no place to grab great coffee, a great breakfast. A place to hang out with family, have brunch and lunch. So, that got us going on the whole belties concept, Defusco said. The first thing Defusco and Washburn did was look for a piece of property and they found it in Nellysford. Located downtown along Va. 151. Defusco said the communitys response to Belties has been mostly positive. There were a few people who were not originally enthusiastic about the idea because the land they were building their restaurant on housed an old farmhouse that had been abandoned for decades. Initially, Defusco and Washburn wanted to use the old farmhouse as the cafe but it had to be taken down due to the structure having asbestos and it being unfit to use. They then came up with a design that will be a replica of the original farmhouse as a nod to the history of that land. The whole experience, were calling it a campus because itll have multiple buildings. There will be the main cafe building which is going to be a classic farmhouse style with a wraparound porch, a sunroom and indoor/outdoor dining. It will be a really comfortable environment. There will also be a working barn on the property. It will also serve as a drive thru so not only will it house the belties in inclement weather and have their hay in there but, people can actually drive through the barn to pick up their order, Defusco said. The goal for the restaurant is to be an experience but also a place for families and friends to gather. The cafe itself will be biscuit oriented. Defusco and Washburn plan to have biscuits made from scratch. There will be the classic choices such as bacon, egg, and cheese, but they are also currently planning unique biscuit combinations that will only be available there. On top of biscuits, there will be different pastries. Belties will be roasting its coffee on site. It will be using an electric coffee roasting machine to lessen its carbon footprint. Defusco told The Nelson County Times that it was important to them to create an environmentally friendly brand for Belties, it matched their beliefs and business plans. Right now, Defusco and Washburn are in the permitting process and are hoping to start construction in two months. Were excited about the combination of the belties, coffee, great food and the environment of this farmhouse. Were just excited to see people enjoy themselves, Defusco commented. AICHI, Feb 09 (News On Japan) - Bento boxes developed by high school have been on sale at AEON stores in Aichi Prefecture since Wednesday, as part of the "Kids' Lunch Bento Box" program, allowing students to learn the basics of business firsthand. Sales kicked off on February 7th, and students have been actively promoting their product to shoppers at the AEON Atsuta store. Senior student Doi shared, "I hope to utilize this experience even after entering society. We designed the bento to be enjoyable for everyone from children to adults, so I hope it can be shared among families and friends." The "Kids' Lunch Bento Box" will be available until February 27th in AEON and AEON Style stores across the three prefectures of the Tokai region. Source: NEWS ONE TOKYO, Feb 09 (News On Japan) - Following the death of Hinako Ashihara, the artist behind the popular manga "Sexy Tanaka-san," which was adapted into a TV drama, Shogakukan, the publisher serializing her work, has announced that they are conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the script. Ashihara revealed in January, through social media posts, that there had been a difference in opinion with the production side regarding the script. She was later found dead in Tochigi Prefecture. In response to this tragic event, Shogakukan issued a statement on February 8th, expressing their deepest regrets and stating, "For the adaptation, our responsible group faithfully and sincerely conveyed Ms. Ashihara's wishes to the drama production team." The publisher also committed to investigating the situation to prevent such incidents from happening again. On the same day, Tomoko Aizawa, who was responsible for the drama's script, posted a comment on her social media. She expressed her shock upon reading about the circumstances disclosed by Ashihara, saying, "I was at a loss for words when I read it, and my mind went blank when I heard of her passing." She also reflected on her previous social media post about the drama's script, admitting, "I should have been more cautious." Aizawa continued, "This is all I can say without knowing the facts, but I sincerely hope that this does not happen again. I apologize for the late expression of my condolences. I pray for the repose of Ms. Hinako Ashihara's soul." Additionally, Shogakukan posted a statement from the editor in charge of the "Sexy Tanaka-san" manga series on their website. The collective statement from the editors read, "Ms. Ashihara was as sincere and kind as everyone imagines from reading her work, and she was always fair." They expressed regret for making her feel the need to speak up to protect her rights, a situation that should require no courage. "What else could have caused this? Could we have done more? Instead of placing responsibility on an individual, we will continue to review this incident as an organization. We will also look into concrete improvements in the negotiation process between the drama production team and the editorial department, always prioritizing the protection of the original creators in future adaptations," the editors pledged. The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare provides consultation services for individuals experiencing anxiety or distress. Online searches for "Mamorou Yokokoro" can lead to these resources. Main telephone consultation services include the "Yorisoi Hotline" at 0120-279-338 and the "Mental Health Consultation Unified Dial" at 0570-064-556. Source: NHK TOKYO, Feb 09 (News On Japan) - Ito-Yokado, a supermarket chain under the umbrella of Seven & i Holdings, has announced its withdrawal from Hokkaido and the Tohoku region, signaling the closure of all its 14 stores in these areas. This strategic retreat encompasses six stores in Hokkaido and eight stores across Aomori, Iwate, Miyagi, and Fukushima prefectures. The closures will be phased in starting this spring. In light of these closures, Seven & i Holdings is actively seeking companies for potential business succession, emphasizing employment-centric negotiations. Ito-Yokado, once the cornerstone of Seven & i Holdings' business, has been experiencing a downturn, marking three consecutive years of net losses. In March of the previous year, Seven & i Holdings announced a restructuring plan that included reducing 33 stores by 2026 to focus on urban areas, exiting the apparel business, and other measures aimed at consolidating its operations. Furthermore, since January, the company has been inviting early retirement applications from regular employees aged 45 and over. A decision to relocate the headquarters by this summer has also been made, part of an accelerated effort to restructure the struggling Ito-Yokado and improve its financial performance. Source: TBS TOKYO, Feb 09 (News On Japan) - In a significant first, Princess Aiko, the eldest daughter of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, attended a luncheon hosted by their Majesties for the President of Kenya and his spouse at the Imperial Palace. This marks the first occasion Princess Aiko has participated in a palace luncheon with foreign dignitaries. This morning, the Emperor and Empress warmly welcomed President Ruto and his wife at the palace driveway, exchanging pleasantries and handshakes. During the luncheon, Princess Aiko took the opportunity to converse in English with a Kenyan minister seated next to her, inquiring about his previous visits to Japan among other topics. According to the Imperial Household Agency, before the luncheon commenced, Princess Aiko greeted President Ruto and his wife in Swahili, eliciting compliments from the President on her proficiency. Furthermore, when the President extended an invitation to visit Kenya in English, Princess Aiko responded with a gracious "Thank you." This interaction not only highlights Princess Aiko's diplomatic skills but also signifies a momentous step in her public duties, showcasing the Imperial Family's commitment to fostering international relations. Source: TBS TOKYO, Feb 10 (News On Japan) - Seiji Ozawa, a globally celebrated conductor, has died. He was 88 years old. According to his office, Ozawa passed away at his home in Tokyo on February 6 due to heart failure. The funeral has already been conducted with close family members in attendance. Ozawa was diagnosed with esophageal cancer in 2010, leading him to cancel all domestic and international performances to focus on treatment. He made a comeback to the stage seven months later. Born in 1935 in what is now Shenyang, China, Ozawa began his foundational music education in high school under the tutelage of conductor Hideo Saito. In 1959, he won first place at the Besancon International Conductors' Competition in France. His illustrious career included positions such as assistant conductor for the New York Philharmonic and music director of the San Francisco Symphony, before becoming the music director of the Boston Symphony Orchestra in 1973, a position he held for 29 years, significantly enhancing the orchestra's international standing. In Japan, Ozawa founded the Saito Kinen Orchestra in 1984 in memory of his mentor Hideo Saito, organizing an annual music festival in Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture. Ozawa was also instrumental in nurturing young musicians through initiatives like the Seiji Ozawa Music Academy Orchestra Project and establishing a music academy in Switzerland. He was awarded an honorary doctorate from Harvard University in 2000, the Japanese Order of Culture in 2008, and became the first Japanese honorary member of the Vienna Philharmonic in 2010, among many other accolades. Source: ANN NAHA, Feb 10 (News On Japan) - Naha Airport is known for its abundant souvenir shops and gourmet spots, but did you know it also harbors hidden convenient services and scenic spots? Today, a local writer introduces recommended services and spots at Naha Airport that can be useful during your travels. While Naha Airport is renowned for its souvenir shops and gourmet spots, its convenient services and lesser-known scenic spots might come as a surprise to many. In this article, we will introduce some of the useful services and recommended spots at the Naha Airport domestic terminal building (hereafter referred to as Naha Airport). Upon arrival, make sure to check out the "Mini Churaumi Aquarium"! Located in the arrival lobby on the first floor, this "aquarium" is home to colorful tropical fish swimming around! Image source: Official website of Naha Airport Terminal Building First and foremost, we recommend the "aquarium" in the first-floor arrival lobby. Whether you're on the JAL or ANA side, you'll find it right in front of you as you exit the arrival gate. This aquarium is actually affiliated with the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium. Just like the main aquarium, it houses colorful tropical fish that inhabit the seas of Okinawa, so be sure to check it out. Not widely known? Naha Airport's "Scenic Spot" Did you know that Naha Airport also has a scenic spot? The first one we'd like to introduce is the large window on the fourth floor. Located in the corridor connecting the restaurant floors on both the JAL and ANA sides, the view of the sea from this window is stunningly beautiful, offering a panoramic view that is quite appealing. The scenery painted by the blue sea during the day is wonderful, but the evening view is also fantastic! Make sure to stop by after arriving at Naha Airport or before boarding your return flight. I consider it one of the top five scenic views in Okinawa. The second location is the "Visitor's Deck" on the third floor (open from 8 am to 7 pm). There are discreet entrances on both the JAL and ANA sides, and admission is free. Here, you can enjoy not only the powerful sight of airplanes taking off and landing up close but also the scenic view of Okinawa's sea beyond the runway. With the sea breeze blowing, it's a pleasant place to spend time waiting for your flight. This is also a unique scenic spot at Naha Airport. Services that come in handy after arrival or before departure! There are also delightful services that support you during those "troublesome" moments of travel. Image source: Official website of Naha Airport Terminal Building What to do with luggage? Moving around with large luggage during a trip can be quite a hassle, especially if you're not using a rental car. But Naha Airport has services to help you out! If large luggage is getting in the way while shopping or dining at the airport, consider using the temporary storage service. Coin lockers are available on each floor from the first to the third. If your luggage doesn't fit in the coin lockers, head to the Yamato Transport counter on the first-floor arrival lobby, where you can also use the temporary storage service. For those who want to head straight to sightseeing upon arrival, why not use the "Hands-Free Sightseeing" service? Offered at the Yamato Transport counter on the first-floor arrival lobby, this service delivers your luggage from Naha Airport to hotels on Okinawa's main island for a flat fee of 1,000 yen (tax included) on the same day (reception until 1 pm). Similarly, you can also send your luggage from the hotel to Naha Airport on your return trip! What if you need to use a computer or smartphone... and you're in a pinch? If you find yourself needing a computer but didn't bring one, coin-operated computers are available near the information desks on the first and second floors. And if your smartphone is about to run out of charge, coin-operated mobile chargers can save the day. These are located near the information desk on the first floor and near the elevators on the second floor. Additionally, if you need to connect to Wi-Fi, free wireless LAN internet service is available throughout the airport (excluding some stores and facilities). Services that families with children will appreciate! The kids' space on the second floor is conveniently located near the security checkpoint! Image source: Official website of Naha Airport Terminal Building There's also a spot for small children to play! A "Kids' Space" where small children can play is set up near the security checkpoint on the second floor. There are benches nearby for adults to sit as well. Furthermore, the "Welcome Hall" on the second floor is equipped with playground equipment and photo sticker machines, which can be a great way to spend time if you're traveling with children. Stroller rental available for the entire duration of the trip At the Barrier-Free Tour Center in the arrival lobby on the first floor, you can rent strollers and wheelchairs. These are not just for the day but can be borrowed for the entire duration of your trip, which is very convenient. If you wish to use this service, make sure to reserve at least three days in advance (charges apply). Source: MDPR The Daily News publishes death notices and obituaries on a daily basis for Norfolkans, area residents and former residents. Death notices, which include information about when and where a person died, funeral services, burial and visitation for the deceased and memorial information, are published free of charge. If families of the deceased desire to have an obituary printed, there is a fee charged for doing so. Because of that, families of the deceased can decide what information they want included in the obituary, as well as if they desire to have a photograph of the deceased published along with it. The Daily News reserves the right to edit. Norfolk and area funeral homes have detailed information about placing an obituary in the Daily News. If individuals want to submit obituary information themselves, it can be emailed to funerals@norfolkdailynews.com or faxed to (402) 644-2080. People needing additional information about death notices and obituaries can call the Daily News at 371-1020 or (877) 371-1020 and ask for the newsroom. West Rocks Middle School's new assistant principal, Jules Douge, will start on Feb. 26, 2024. Emily Morgan / Hearst Connecticut Media NORWALK To better serve students on the "complex campus" at West Rocks Middle School, Norwalk Public Schools appointed a second assistant principal for the school. Jules Douge will join the schools current assistant principal, Beth Amaral, on Feb. 26 under the leadership of principal Adam Reynolds. West Rocks will be the only school in the district with a second assistant principal, said Emily Morgan, media relations specialist for the district. Superintendent of Schools Alexandra Estrella said that the additional West Rocks assistant principalship was created to accommodate the schools needs. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The size of the school has grown significantly and there needs to be additional supports to fulfill the needs of that campus, Estrella said at the Tuesday night meeting of the Board of Education. So were adding an administrator that were grant-funding right now to support the needs of the building. As of Feb. 1, West Rocks student population sat at 693 seven fewer students than in the 2022-23 school year. In the last four school years, the West Rocks population peaked in 2020-21 at 735 students and dropped to 719 in 2021-22, according to the district. While the student population has decreased year-over-year in the last four academic years, West Rocks still boasts the largest student body of all the districts middle schools; next up is Ponus Ridge STEAM Academy, which had 625 students as of Feb. 1. The additional assistant principal is needed to better serve West Rocks students, who are spread across the school's complex campus, with a main building and mobile classrooms, Estrella said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad I know that there was concern from the community about support for West Rocks Middle School, and we wanted to make sure that they have the resources to effectively support the campus that continues to grow, she said. Douges post adds an additional element of supervision, the superintendent said. I am so super excited to be able to introduce, hopefully, the newest member of the West Rocks family, Reynolds said in the meeting before the school board unanimously approved Douges appointment. Douge comes to West Rocks from Kendall College and Career Academy in Norwalk, where he has been a social worker for the past six years. He was a social work clinician at the Yale University School of Medicine from 2014 to 2017, according to his LinkedIn profile. Advertisement Article continues below this ad I couldn't be more excited to have him join us, Reynolds said in the meeting. While he looks forward to the new assistant principalship, leaving Kendall is difficult, Douge said. I made more than a family there, he said. Douge began his remarks to the school board with a greeting to the district's Latino families. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Its a pride for me, as a Latino, to be here with you all, he said in Spanish. I am very happy about these next steps in this new path. Douge said that in his work, he loves his students as much as he can. Illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing costs African countries up to $11.49 billion annually, according to a new study conducted by researchers from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Duke University, that also found that over 75% of the worlds industrial fishing vessels, mostly in Africa and South Asia, are operating incognito. In the new study published in the Nature Journal, researchers from NGO the Global Fishing Watch have used machine learning and satellite imagery recorded in the past three years to create a global map of large vessel traffic and offshore infrastructure. They found that since most vessels dont broadcast their location and are not detected by monitoring systems, the world has actually no clear picture of who fishes what. They found that 75% of the worlds industrial fishing vessels are not publicly tracked, mostly in Africa and South Asia. The survey highlights the challenges facing Africa in managing the continents natural resources such as protected marine areas, with many of the incognito vessels said to engage in illegal fishing. Although not all boats are obligated by law to transmit their position, the presence of vessels not participating in public monitoring systems, commonly referred to as dark fleets, presents obstacles to the conservation and management of natural resources, says David Kroodsma, director of research and innovation at the NGO Global Fishing Watch and co-lead author of the study. The researchers detected 63,300 vessel occurrences between 2017 and 2021, with about 75% of them not appearing in public monitoring systems. For example, Kenya has declared war on illegal fishing by suspending licensing of foreign fishing vessels for not remitting required levies and declaring fish catches. Among foreign-owned vessels, it is especially those with Chinese, Seychelles, Italian, Taiwanese, and Hong Kong flags that are appearing multiple times on the tracking site, according to the data from the Kenya Maritime Authority. Frequent crashes have become a dilemma for the Algerian military with three killed in a military helicopter on Feb 7, in an accident that raises questions over the efficiency of maintenance and acquisition choices. The Russian-made MI-171 aircraft crashed on Wednesday night around 9:00 p.m. local time (2000 GMT) near the airport in the oasis town of El-Meniaa, the defense ministry said in a statement. All three military personnel on board a colonel, a lieutenant colonel, and a sergeant were killed, it added. Frequent crashes Algeria boasts the biggest military budget in Africa with an over dependence on Russian weapons, combined with a lack of international experience. The frequent airplane crashes and accidents in the Algerian air force fleet are but a tree that hides a forest of mismanagement and a lack of strategy. The accident however comes in a series of tragic events caused by military plane crashes. In March 2018, 12 soldiers died in a helicopter crash. Two months only after a tragic air crush in 2018 of a Russian-built Ilyushin killing 257 soldiers including 26 polisairo members, a C-130 Hercules military transport aircraft overshoot the runway in Biskras airport leaving 8 injured. These accidents indicate that the Algerian military is undergoing a crisis of doctrine. Back in the 1970s, following Algerias independence, its military rulers adopted a strategy inspired by their guerrilla warfare against France combined with the Soviet military doctrine emphasizing the importance of land forces, notably tanks and the artillery. Little attention was paid to air force which are the backbone of modern armies due to its decisiveness in terms of undermining the centre of gravity of opponents before engaging in land warfare. Analysts see that Algerian air force is much underdeveloped with a low skill pilots lacking battlefield experience compared to its regional rival Morocco, a western ally. After a diplomatic spat between Algeria and Spain over the Sahara, which lasted nearly 15 months, the Algerian ruling junta realized that their blackmail strategy and gas weaponization have failed and changed course. After swallowing their bitter defeat, they sent back their ambassador to Madrid in a humiliating diplomatic and economic debacle without succeeding to persuade Spain to reverse its support for Moroccos autonomy plan for the Sahara under its sovereignty. The Algerian rulers had recalled their envoy in Spain over the Sahara issue after Madrid openly voiced support for Moroccos autonomy plan for the Sahara under the Kingdoms sovereignty. They tried to blackmail Madrid into dropping its support for Morocco by cutting off their supplies of natural gas. But the strategy turned into an epic defeat, deepening Algiers international isolation. In a bid to mend ties with Spain which has strengthened further strategic partnership with Morocco, the Algerian military regime has invited Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albarez to their country next Monday though Mr. Albarez was targeted by smear campaign by Algerian authorities for standing with Moroccos territorial integrity and Sovereignty over the Sahara. In a press release, Spanish foreign ministry said Mr. Albares will visit Algeria February 12 at the invitation of Algerian peer Ahmed Attaf. The trip comes few days after Spanish authorities recognized the Moroccanness of the city of Laayoune in their official gazette. The move deals another hard blow to the Algerian regime which is now seeking to rebuild its ties with Madrid after becoming persona non grata in Sahel and losing regional & international credibility Spanish support for Morocco over the Sahara issue has led stronger economic, cultural and security cooperation ties between the two neighboring countries. Spain is now Moroccos largest trading partner and the two countries have strengthened their cooperation against extremist and trafficking networks. In the Sahel, landlocked countries have applauded Moroccos initiative offering them access to the Atlantic, a project that will transform not only the economies of these countries and the entire region. While Algeria is supporting separatism and exporting instability, Morocco is seen a reliable partner by all African countries. The North African Kingdom is spearheading an initiative gathering all African countries bordering the Atlantic Ocean and a gas-pipeline with Nigeria. The goal of all these projects, based on South-South cooperation and solidarity, is to build an African zone of peace, stability, and shared prosperity. Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska this Friday commended cooperation between Morocco and Spain on migration, describing this cooperation as exemplary. Cooperation between Morocco and Spain is exemplary. We have been close, reliable, and loyal partners for a long time, the Spanish minister told the public television channel TVE. In January, the Spanish official made his first visit abroad to Morocco following the inauguration of the new government. During this visit, the Minister stressed, in an exclusive interview with MAP, that the foundations of cooperation between Morocco and Spain have been built over the years on shared goals and principles, within a framework of mutual trust and absolute loyalty, enabling both parties to develop means of interaction in a spirit of effectiveness and efficiency. Morocco and Spain are linked by a multi-dimensional strategic partnership, encompassing all fields, thanks to the roadmap adopted in April 2022, during the visit of the President of the Spanish Government, Pedro Sanchez, to Morocco, at the invitation of King Mohammed VI. The roadmap has laid out a multidimensional and more ambitious vision of bilateral relations. The ongoing momentum in bilateral relations, particularly in light of the visit of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez to Morocco in April 2022 and the strength of these relations were also reviewed at a meeting Thursday in Madrid between Moroccos Ambassador to Spain, Karima Benyaich, and Speaker of the Spanish Congress of Deputies, Francina Armengol. During this meeting, Benyaich and Armengol hailed the excellent relations that have always united the Kingdoms of Morocco and Spain and the two Royal Families, praising the close cooperation between the governments and parliaments of the two countries. The meeting also underscored the importance of the upcoming plenary session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean, which will be held next week in Morocco, and which is expected to strengthen cooperation ties in the region. The Secretary of State for the Holy See, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, commended King Mohammed VI, Commander of the Faithful, for his efforts to promote tolerance and inter-religious dialogue. Speaking at a function organized in his honor by the Moroccan Embassy in the Vatican, following his appointment as an honorary member of the Kingdoms Academy, the cardinal highlighted the cordial and sincere relations between the Kingdom of Morocco and the Vatican. Cardinal Parolin welcomed the Royal appointment, expressing his great satisfaction and gratitude at having been chosen as an honorary member of this prestigious institution. The mission of the Academy of the Kingdom of Morocco, as a scientific institution of reference, is to contribute to the countrys intellectual, scientific, and cultural progress, while making known the components of the national identity and disseminating universal values and principles, aiming at the promotion of a fruitful dialogue between cultures and civilizations, he added. Through the organization of worldwide meetings, the Academy builds civilizational bridges and strengthens mutual cultural understanding, stressed the Holy See official. For her part, the Moroccan Ambassador to the Holy See, Rajae Naji Mekkaoui, underlined that this Royal appointment reaffirms the willingness and commitment of the Sovereign to consolidate the age-old relations between Morocco and the Vatican and to work towards promoting the universal values of peace and tolerance, the protection of the family, migration, climate change, sustainable development, the fight against poverty, and the strengthening of multilateralism. The opening of the prestigious Academy of the Kingdom to eminent personalities and intellectual and scientific skills from around the world is also part of the historic role played by Morocco, as a crossroads of dialogue between the West and the East and a permanent bridge of communication between different civilizations, noted the diplomat. The New York Times has highlighted the touristic assets of Marrakech, describing it as a haven of Islamic architecture, dazzling traditional artisanship, and cool contemporary design. In an article published Thursday, The New York Times celebrates Marrakesh as a city combining authenticity and modernity and boasting many tourist attractions. The author of the piece, Seth Sherwood states that the Medina of Marrakesh, the nearly millennium-old walled city and UNESCO World Heritage site, forms the heart of Moroccos onetime capital. Highlighting the beauty of the minaret of the medieval Koutoubia mosque and the 16th-century El Badi Palace, the publication notes that Marrakesh stands out as a haven of Islamic architecture. By visiting Marrakesh right now, youre not only experiencing a haven of Islamic architecture, dazzling traditional artisanship, cool contemporary design, and North Africas best restaurants, but also lending moral and economic support to a region in recovery, the media writes. The author further cites Medersa Ben Youssef, a centuries-old religious school, which showcases expert traditional craftsmanship, including tilework and carving, highlighting the citys Jewish heritage, mainly the Mellah or the Jewish quarter established in the 1500s and which still holds a Jewish cemetery as well as historical synagogues, including Slat Lazama, which has a museum. For the New York Times, Marrakesh is also an art capital in North Africa with its galleries located notably in the new city of Gueliz. The author also mentions the renowned place of Jamaa El Fna, the Souks and the bazaars which are filled with legions of expert artisans working in metal, wood, ceramics, and textiles. Scottsbluffs sole remaining TV news station closed quietly last week. NBC Nebraska, also known as KGWN Scottsbluff and KNEP in Sidney, was closed after Gray Television announced its plans to sell its TV stations in Scottsbluff, Sidney, Cheyenne, Wyoming, and Casper, Wyoming, to Marquee Broadcasting Group in exchange for an FCC permit authorizing the construction of a new TV station in Salt Lake City, according to a Gray Television press release on Thursday, Feb. 1. The deal is not expected to be finalized until the second quarter of this year. While the deal is pending approval from the FCC, changes are already underway. The news station here in Scottsbluff has been closed, Jim Beck, general manager for KGWN Wyoming News Now, confirmed to the Star-Herald Monday. Beck said Gray Television opted to close the Scottsbluff news station as it was no longer able to maintain a separate news bureau from its Cheyenne station. Given the many challenges facing news media, particularly in small communities, it is no longer possible to continue to underwrite the investments necessary to keep that news bureau open, Beck said in an email. Beck said Marquee is not currently making any personnel or operations decisions for Gray and that they are trying to find other positions for the Scottsbluff news staff in Cheyenne or other stations. He said there are four news professionals in the Scottsbluff bureau that are being offered other employment opportunities. As viewers may have noticed, since the Scottsbluff station was shuttered, the channel has been airing news broadcasts from Wyoming News Now. Beck said in an email the plan is to air those newscasts produced in the Cheyenne newsroom in the eastern part of its market, including Scottsbluff. In terms of Scottsbluff, we are proud of the very good work that our Scottsbluff news bureau has provided over the past several years, he said. Beck indicated that other employees would be staying and working out of Scottsbluff, though he did not go into specifics. Per the sale agreement, Marquee is required to offer employment to the employees of the stations at the time of closing and maintain similar pay and benefit packages for those employees. In the agreement, both parties also agreed not to make any public statements or announcements without the consent of the other. Marquee Broadcasting was founded in 2013 and will own 17 broadcasting stations when the deal with Gray TV is finalized. In the press release, Marquee Broadcasting CEO Patricia Lane said, Marquee is excited to acquire Grays leading stations in Wyoming and western Nebraska. We are looking forward to building on the legacy there. The press release made no mentions of the future plans for the Scottsbluff (KSTF), Sidney (KNEP), Casper (KCWY) or Cheyenne (KGWN) stations that will be acquired once the agreement is finalized. Top Journal Star photos for January 2024 Photo-Illustration: Intelligencer; Photo: HECTOR RETAMAL/AFP via Getty Images In late January, the Senate Judiciary Committee dragged a bunch of tech executives to Washington for a hearing that was, in theory, about online child safety. Senators questioned and occasionally berated the heads of Meta, Discord, X, and Snap; at one point, under pressure from Republican senator Josh Hawley, Mark Zuckerberg turned to face attending families, some of whom had lost children to suicide, to apologize. A few senators, however, wanted to talk about something else: China, and more specifically, TikToks relationship with the Chinese government. At one point, Senator Tom Cotton asked TikToks CEO, Shou Zi Chew, if he had ever been a member of the Chinese Communist Party, to which he responded, Senator, Im Singaporean, no. Hawley described TikTok as basically an espionage arm for the Chinese Communist Party. It was a tense spectacle and a preview: TikToks roots in China and reach in America particularly among young people have the potential to be important issues in (and perhaps influences on) the 2024 elections. On the issue of China, executives at competing companies havent exactly rushed to TikToks defense; for a couple years starting in 2019, after a failed acquisition attempt, Zuckerberg called attention to TikToks foreign ownership. At the time, this was an easy choice: TikTok was a new and clear competitor to Instagram; Meta, then Facebook, was facing intense public and regulatory scrutiny; Zuckerberg, whose company wasnt seriously politically or financially obliged to China, where its apps are banned, was eager to change the subject. Since then, however, things have changed. In a call following Metas blowout Q4 2023 earnings report, its CFO revealed a source of much of its recent growth: The online commerce and gaming verticals benefited from strong demand by advertisers in China reaching people in other markets. In 2023, revenue from China-based advertisers represented 10 percent of our overall revenue and contributed 5 percentage points to total worldwide revenue growth. Meta, which also quietly reentered the Chinese market through a deal between its VR business and Tencent, isnt the only company making interesting disclosures about its dependence on international trade. In a filing with the SEC, Amazon acknowledged, for the first time in such explicit terms, the scope of its dependence on not just products manufactured in China but on Chinese sellers and their marketing budgets: [B]ecause China-based sellers account for significant portions of our third-party seller services and advertising revenues, and China-based suppliers provide significant portions of our components and finished goods, regulatory and trade restrictions, data protection and cybersecurity laws, economic factors, geopolitical events, security issues, or other factors negatively impacting China-based sellers and suppliers could adversely affect our operating results. Meta, Amazon, and many other major American tech companies arent able to offer services in China, so their connections with its economy can be easy to minimize. Apple, which both manufacturers and sells goods in China a market that has in the past accounted for about a fifth of total sales has reported a precipitous drop in demand there, which analysts predict will be hard to turn around. In recent years, in response to domestic backlash, political risks abroad, and COVID-era supply-chain scares, American tech giants have emphasized the ways theyre distancing themselves from China: Apple and Google have shifted some hardware manufacturing to India and Vietnam, while Meta briefly and awkwardly attempted to position itself as a protector of American values in tech. The Biden administration has pushed tighter restrictions on American tech investment in and exports to China, and bigger fights over chip technology and AI are looming. At the same time, Chinese-American tech interdependence has by many measures increased. Ad-supported firms like Meta and Google have benefited from massive spending from firms like Shein and Temu; online retailers including but not limited to Amazon have become, effectively, conduits for a new form of direct, loophole-enabled cross-border commerce. Even X, which is banned in China, now has serious exposure through its new owner: Elon Musks much larger Tesla sells and manufactures a lot of cars there, and without Chinese lithium and cobalt suppliers, its battery supply chain falls apart. (In case you were wondering, Elon Musk, as of late 2023, has started expressing some nuanced views of Chinas relationship with Taiwan.) Senators like going after TikTok in part because they see it as an easy win. Outside of a few demographics the ones that tend to use it the app is widely seen as either silly or dangerous. More broadly, Americans are fairly supportive of tighter restrictions on trade with China. Trump made a spectacle of trade war, but the Biden administration has continued to treat economic decoupling as a priority, and its policies are having a measurable negative effect on some forms of trade. So its probably notable that the rest of the tech industry is moving in the other direction. Its easy to imagine a scenario in which TikTok, after years of scrutiny and through a years-long, contentious plan to cordon off its American operations from ByteDance, ends up truly out of touch with its parent company, rendered inoperative in the nefarious (and largely theoretically) influence schemes of which it stands accused by Tom Cotton, Josh Hawley, and plenty of others. Its likewise easy to see how Americas largest tech companies could find themselves utterly dependent on relationships with a country their government increasingly regards as an economic adversary or worse, depending on who is president this time next year. Nothing a few more hearings cant resolve. The Senate GOPs unlikely champion. Photo: William B. Plowman/NBC via Getty Images Larry Hogan, who just made a surprise announcement of a 2024 Senate bid, is a bit of a unicorn in todays MAGA-flavored Republican Party: a relatively centrist politician who has twice won statewide in a deep-blue state while regularly dissing Donald Trump. Hes legitimately a moderate, though no liberal. For example, he opposed restricting abortion in his state before and after the Supreme Court reversed Roe v. Wade, but he also opposed expanding abortion access. And he worked reasonably well with Marylands Democratic-controlled legislature so well, in fact, that virtually no down-ballot Republicans were elected on his coattails. Term-limited at the end 2022, Hogan got a lot of media attention for criticizing Trump and was even the subject of some ill-informed speculation that he might run for president in the 2024 Republican primaries. He also became active in that centrist fantasy land, the No Labels organization. And when Hogan stepped down from its board, there was some more ill-informed speculation that he might be preparing a presidential bid as part of a No Labels unity ticket. He said no to that prospect and then last month endorsed the presidential candidacy of Nikki Haley. Perhaps this sign that Hogan wanted to remain within the general confines of the Republican Party signaled his next step, which surprised a lot of people: deciding to run for the Senate seat being vacated by three-term Democratic incumbent Ben Cardin. Its quite the recruiting coup for Republicans, who last won a U.S. Senate race in Maryland in 1980. And although its been obvious for a bit that Hogan wasnt actually looking in its direction, its a blow to No Labels, which has been making noises about wanting a Republican at the top if its unity ticket to allay concerns it was secretly or stupidly acting as Trump pawns. Theres really no other Republican in its orbit with the kind of recent electoral credibility Hogan has demonstrated. Hogans interest in becoming a freshman senator at the age of 68 is a bit of a mystery. Yes, hed have a shorter commute than most senators and is already a familiar figure to the beltway media types who determine which puffed-up lawmakers get attention in a Capitol crowded with big egos. But it would in other respects represent a demotion. Governors have entire state governments reporting to them and can make news whenever they want, while senators have small staffs mostly composed of children and must fight for headlines and sound bites. But presumably Hogan really wants the job. Whether he wins it or not is another subject altogether. Surely Maryland Republican officials in Washington and in Maryland offered their first-borns to Hogan for giving them the best chance to win a Senate seat in the Old Line State in ages in an election cycle where they have high hopes of flipping control of the chamber. But you never know what sort of MAGA opposition might arise: In 2022, Hogans hand-picked candidate to succeed him as governor, Kelly Schulz, was waxed by Trump zealot Dan Cox in the GOP primary (Cox went on to lose badly to Democrat Wes Moore in the general election). Assuming he does brush aside intra-party opposition, Hogan will face either ultrawealthy congressman David Trone or Prince Georges county executive Angela Alsobrooks (who holds the same position in that large D.C. suburb as Hogans father once occupied back in the day). While Hogan has obviously shown he can win a statewide campaign in Maryland, he hasnt run for a federal office in a presidential year, much less one in a hyperpolarized election year like 2024. He has vowed not to back either Biden or Trump if they are the major-party nominees in November and has also let it be known he did not vote for Trump in 2016 or 2020. In that sense, he is positioned to run as someone who is fiercely independent, but Democratic partisanship will be hard for him to overcome this time around. If nothing else, hell force Democrats to spend money in Maryland theyd prefer to spend on crucial Senate races in Ohio or Montana. For that, even Trump-supporting Republicans will be grateful. Photo: Frederic J. Brown/AFP via Getty Images Though it didnt get nearly as much attention as the Nevada Republican caucuses, where Donald Trump enjoyed an uncontested romp, the U.S. Virgin Islands held their own caucuses on the same day with both Trump and Nikki Haley on the ballot. Though there was no polling of this contest, there was some advance buzz that Haley might score an upset in the Caribbean territory, which held what is usually called a firehouse primary (a party-sponsored election in limited polling sites just three in the Virgin Islands), as FiveThirtyEight explained: [C]ampaigning on the Virgin Islands looks pretty different than it does on the mainland. No candidate has visited the territory in person. Instead, the candidates send surrogates, or sometimes they use Zoom to speak at events personally. Haley has done that twice, including on Monday night, and also has a senior staffer physically on the ground. Trump has not addressed Virgin Islanders himself. Surrogates for his campaign have held three in-person events in the territory. Alas for Haley, her terrible week (she lost badly to the none of these candidates ballot line in a non-delegate-awarding Nevada primary that Trump skipped on February 6) continued in the Virgin Islands, where Trump won 74 percent of the very small number of Republicans who bothered to turn out. He won all four delegates at stake (a reduced number thanks to party sanctions imposed on the Virgin Islands for holding a caucus earlier than was allowed). One interesting twist in the territorys primary system didnt matter: It required ranked-choice voting to be disclosed if no candidate won a majority in the first round of tabulation. Trump obviously made that irrelevant, and no candidate other than Haley won any votes, even though six withdrawn candidates were still on the ballot. The next contest will be in Nikki Haleys home state of South Carolina on February 24; Trump is strongly favored (leading by 31 points in the RealClearPolitics polling averages) and could knock Haley right out of the race with a convincing enough victory. He certainly needed no special effort to rout his one surviving opponent in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Colorado secretary of State Jena Griswold exits the Supreme Court after oral arguments over whether Donald Trump can remain on the ballot. Photo: Julia Nikhinson/Getty Images The U.S. Supreme Court had an appointment with history on Thursday, and from the sounds of it, the justices were looking for a way to get out of the obligation. They all had their own reasons. Neil Gorsuch parsed the text. Amy Coney Barrett invoked due process. Clarence Thomas and Ketanji Brown Jackson, the oldest and the newest justices, respectively, probed originalist context. John Roberts and Elena Kagan, the pragmatists, fretted about creating electoral chaos. No one, with the possible exception of Sonia Sotomayor, seemed to be up for deciding what legal consequences Donald Trump should face for January 6 at least not yet. The case, Trump v. Anderson, concerns a section of the 14th Amendment that prohibits anyone who has engaged in insurrection or rebellion from holding any office, civil or military, under the United States. The Reconstruction-era provision was meant to keep those who served in the Confederate army or government from reclaiming positions of power in their home states after the Civil War. Rebellion and insurrection gradually receded as concerns, and the passage fell into dormancy. Then Trump whipped his supporters into a frenzy and sent them marching in the direction of the U.S. Capitol to overturn the 2020 election. Liberal legal scholars decided the insurrection provision was not just a line of junk DNA but a viable constitutional prohibition that could be applied to Trump. Last year, after a trial, the Colorado Supreme Court backed that interpretation, ruling Trump ineligible to run for president and ordering him removed from the states ballot. After spending much of January ping-ponging between courtrooms and campaign rallies and attacking the broken legal system, Trump chose not to attend oral arguments over the Colorado decision. An anonymous campaign adviser told CNN there was no upside to his appearing, since the conservative tilt of the Court would seem to favor him and he didnt want to crowd the three justices he had appointed. But Trump was still there anyway, looming in the negative space. I walked into the courtroom at the same time as the Republican front-runners legal team, passing through a cordon of black-clad protesters who shouted Traitors! at them. The scene inside the churchlike, marble-columned chamber was hushed and intense. If we affirmed and we said he was ineligible to be president, the Trump appointee Barrett said, it would practically have the effect of Colorado deciding the issue for the entire nation. What about the idea that we should think about democracy, think about the right of the people to elect candidates of their choice, of letting the people decide? Trump appointee Brett Kavanaugh asked Denver attorney Jason Murray, who had argued for disqualification. Because your position has the effect of disenfranchising voters to a significant degree. The reason were here is that President Trump tried to disenfranchise 80 million Americans who voted against him, Murray replied. And the Constitution doesnt require that he be given another chance. That was about as close as the justices got to the heart of the matter. Roberts acknowledged the violence of January 6 and, briefly, its proximity to his courtroom, making an oblique reference to what happened down the street. But otherwise, he and his colleagues seemed determined to find a way to decide the case without addressing the question of whether Trump had engaged in insurrection. Most of the argument concerned technical issues surrounding the wording and meaning of the 14th Amendment. Every schoolkid learns about its first section, the provision that guarantees each citizen equal protection and due process of law. But it has four other parts, and Section 3 says that any person who had previously taken an oath, as a member of Congress, or as an officer of the United States to support the Constitution would be prohibited from holding a long list of offices if they support rebellion. Trumps appeals briefs argued that the seeming catchall phrase officer of the United States applies only to officials appointed by the president, relying heavily on the scholarship of a previously obscure law professor named Seth Barrett Tillman, who has made a career of excavating ultrafine distinctions in the meaning of constitutional phrases. (Tillman flew in from Ireland, where he teaches, to watch the argument. Afterward, I saw him pausing to take a photo of the portrait of originalist hero Antonin Scalia.) Because Trump, alone among presidents since George Washington, had never served in the Army or otherwise in a public office that required him to take an oath prior to his becoming president, his attorneys argue that he is not covered by the wording of Section 3. A bit of a gerrymandered rule, isnt it, designed to benefit only your client? Sotomayor said. That implies nefarious intent, replied Trumps attorney Jonathan Mitchell. Is that rule a sensible one? Kagan asked. You know, if they had thought about it, what reason would they have given for that rule? This was the text that was settled upon, Mitchell said. And it does seem odd that President Trump would fall through the cracks in a sense, but if officer of the United States means appointed officials, theres just no way he can be covered under Section 3. In his argument for the plaintiffs, Murray said the Court should reject the claim that the framers made an extraordinary mistake in omitting the president alone from the list of people who could be disqualified for engaging in insurrection. Thomas immediately fixed on the original intent of the law, referring to his reading of historians of the Civil War and Reconstruction. What was the purpose of Section 3? he asked. The concern was that the former Confederate states would continue being bad actors. The Radical Republicans in Congress at the time had been primarily focused on keeping the old southern power structure from reasserting itself on the state level. They did not think about authorizing the South to disqualify national candidates, he added. Thus, Thomas said, Colorados decision to remove Trump from the ballot ran counter to the underlying rationale of the 14th Amendment, which was meant to take power from the states. Roberts jumped in to concur. That seems to be a position that is at war with the whole thrust of the 14th Amendment, the chief justice said, and very ahistorical. More surprising, President Bidens appointee, Jackson, struck a similar note. She asked Murray why, if the framers of the amendment had wanted to create a mechanism for states to bar candidates for national office from the ballot on the grounds of insurrection, they had chosen not to include the presidency on their lengthy list of offices that former rebels would be banned from holding. What is very clear from the history, Murray said, is that the framers were concerned about charismatic rebels who might rise through the ranks. But then why didnt they put the word president in the very enumerated list? Jackson asked. She and other justices seemed to think the omission might have been more than just an oversight. If one state could throw a presidential candidate off the ballot for insurrection, Samuel Alito asked, what would prevent another state from doing the same to an opponent. Suppose theres a country that proclaims again and again and again that the United States is its biggest enemy, Alito said, making a clear reference to Iran. And suppose that the president of the United States for diplomatic reasons thinks that its in the best interests of the United States to provide funds or release funds so that they can be used by that country? Could a state potentially decide that president had given aid and comfort to the enemy and disqualify him under Section 3? I would expect, Roberts said, a goodly number of states will say, whoever the Democratic candidate is, youre off the ballot. And others for the Republican candidate, youre off the ballot. Jackson asked why the framers would have designed a system that could create such disuniformity in terms of how major-party candidates are treated from state to state. Well, what they were concerned most about was ensuring that insurrectionists and rebels dont hold office, Murray said. And so once one understands the sort of imperative that they had to ensure that oath-breakers wouldnt take office, it would be a little bit odd to say that states cant enforce it, that only the federal government can. Barrett showed concern that the due process Trump received a five-day trial held on a quick timetable in state court, in which he did not testify might not have been sufficient given the potential weight of the penalty. Murray replied that the state court had relied heavily on the congressional report produced by the House Select Committee on the January 6 attack. You want us all to just watch the video of the Ellipse, Barrett said. The essence of our own case is his own statements, Murray replied. Based on the tenor of the argument, it appears the 14th Amendment case will present the Court with an easy call. But in the coming months, Barrett and her colleagues will be forced to confront the events of January 6 in ways that will be more visceral and, likely, more closely decided. Earlier this week, a federal appeals court in Washington, D.C., unanimously turned away Trumps sweeping claim of presidential immunity from prosecution in the federal criminal case related to his actions on January 6. Trump has appealed to the Supreme Court, which would have to consider the case on an expedited schedule in order for Special Counsel Jack Smith to get a trial underway before the November election. The Court has also agreed to hear a second, comparatively under-the-radar case challenging an underlying criminal statute that prosecutors have relied on in their cases against Trump and many other January 6 defendants. It may not mean anything important, but Kavanaugh twice brought up questions that involved criminal prosecution of insurrectionists. Of all the members of the Court, he would appear to have the most experience in dealing with presidential criminal behavior. Back in the 1990s, before he was a federal judge, Kavanaugh was a member of Independent Counsel Kenneth Starrs staff and played a key role in the perjury investigation of President Clinton. If the concern you have, which I understand, is that insurrectionists should not be able to hold federal office, he said to Murray, there is a tool to ensure that does not happen namely, federal prosecution of insurrectionists. And, if convicted, Congress made clear you are automatically barred from holding federal office. The framers of Section 3 clearly understood that criminal prosecutions werent sufficient because oftentimes insurrectionists go unpunished, Murray replied. Kavanaugh asked a similar question to Mitchell, who replied that prosecution could be used in all but one case. Our client is arguing he has presidential immunity, Mitchell said. So we would not concede that he could be prosecuted for what he did on January 6. Understood, Kavanaugh replied. That will be a question for another day. Sign Up for the Intelligencer Newsletter Daily news about the politics, business, and technology shaping our world. Email This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Vox Media, LLC Terms and Privacy Notice By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice and to receive email correspondence from us. Judith Godreche Files Sexual Assault Complaint Against Jacques Doillon As Anna Mouglalis & Islid Le Besco Also Accuse Director Of Harassment https://t.co/sjqdF7yJbh Deadline Hollywood (@DEADLINE) February 8, 2024 French actresss Judith Godreche has filed an official police complaint against Jacques Doillon, accusing him of two counts of sexual assault in the 1980s when she was a minor. She recounted how Doillon, 79, had sexually assaulted her twice, once at the house of the late actress Jane Birkin. She described his mind-boggling behavior on the set of his 1989 film 'The 15 Year Old Girl', in which she played the lead. She was 15 at the time and he was then in his 40s. Doillon had fired the actor originally hired for the role of the father of the heroines boyfriend who falls in love with her, and taken it himself.Godreche, 51, had also filed a complaint against director Benoit Jacquot for rapes with violence of a minor less than 15-years-old. She lived with Jacquot for six years and appeared in his films 'The Beggars' and 'The Disenchanted', before leaving him in her early 20s. She was 14-years-old when the relationship began while the director was 40 and that she was under his influence.Actresses Anna Mouglalis and Isild le Besco also accused Doillon of sexually inappropriate behavior.Mouglalis recounted how Doillon had tried to force himself on her after a dinner in the summer of 2011.Le Besco accused Doillon of sexual blackmail saying he had dropped her from a promised role in his 2001 film Carrement a lOuest after she refused to sleep with him. Some private oil producers in the Permian will hit the brakes on output growth as they have been acquired by large publicly traded companies, which now value returns to shareholders more than production increases at all costs. The booming activity in mergers and acquisitions (M&As) from 2023 has led to a growing number of smaller privately held companies being absorbed into large corporations, which answer to shareholders and look to reward investors. As a result of this trend, production growth in the top U.S. shale basin, the Permian, is set to slow down this year to the lowest pace of output increases since 2021, market participants have told Reuters. Merger Mania Analysts and industry executives expect the consolidation drive that began in 2023 to continue this year, with the potential of more mega-deals of the scale that Exxon-Pioneer and Chevron-Hess announced at the end of last year. Industry executives of companies active in the Permian expect more large-size deals to be announced in the coming months, according to the latest Dallas Fed Energy Survey. Of the 122 executives responding to a question in the survey, 77% said they expect more acquisitions of $50 billion or more to occur in the next two years. Related: Big Oil Ties Up with Big Corn Against EVs Rethinking inventory in the U.S. shale patch is currently one of the top themes in the global upstream sector, Fraser McKay, Head of Upstream Analysis at Wood Mackenzie, wrote last month. Shale operators could look to counter the trend of gassier, less oil-rich wells in the second half of the decade by acquiring additional high-quality locations now, according to McKay. "However, the scarcity of viable acquisition targets is a growing issue. With demand for quality inventory making M&A increasingly expensive, many exploration and production (E&P) firms may be considering potential deals long before they have a need for more well locations," McKay said. As early as October 2023, after Exxon and Chevron announced their respective mega deals, Enverus Intelligence Research (EIR) said that "the moves by ExxonMobil and Chevron are likely to ignite further consolidation among smaller oil and gas companies as they scramble to remain competitive and secure remaining drilling opportunities." The large independents are also likely to consider acquisitions, targeting smaller and mid-size producers, according to Enverus. Dividends over Drilling The Permian is becoming more consolidated, and drilling locations are becoming an inventory item of larger public producers. More private drillerswho have been driving shale output growth in recent yearsare now acquired by bigger firms, where growth at all costs is preceded by shareholder returns, share price performance, and debt reduction, leading to slower drilling activity. "The publics are not drilling as much as they could," Michael Oestmann, CEO at Midland-based producer Tall City IV, told Reuters. "Their investors now require a certain amount of cash be returned to them instead of invested in new drilling," Oestmann added. Tall City, then named Tall City Property Holdings III LLC, was acquired last year by Vital Energy as part of three transactions in which Vital Energy added resources and scale in the Permian. Significant Slowdown? U.S. crude oil production growth is slowing down, analysts and forecasters say. Some, like the EIA, are highly conservative in their forecasts. Just this week, the administration said in its Short-Term Energy Outlook (STEO) that U.S. oil production fell to 12.6 million barrels per day (bpd) in January because of shut-ins related to cold weather, down from an all-time high of over 13.3 million bpd in December. The EIA expects U.S. oil production will return to almost 13.3 million bpd in February but then decrease slightly through the middle of 2024 and will not exceed the December 2023 record until February 2025. Annual U.S. oil production will grow from 12.93 million bpd in 2023 to 13.10 million bpd this year and 13.49 million bpd next year, show the EIA's latest estimates, which were revised down from previous forecasts. In the short term in the shale patch, only the Permian is expected to boost oil production in February compared to January, but by just 5,000 bpdthe smallest expected monthly growth since July last year, per EIA's latest Drilling Productivity Report. The EIA's estimates of flatlining U.S. oil production this year may be too conservative. Other analysts and forecasters, including OPEC, continue to expect growth, albeit not as strong as the surprisingly steep increase from last year. U.S. oil output could surprise to the upside this year, too, some analysts say, noting that the plans of the two supermajors, ExxonMobil and Chevron, envisage a boost in Permian production. ADVERTISEMENT Chevron said last week that its worldwide and U.S. net oil-equivalent production set annual records in 2023. Worldwide production rose by 4% from a year ago, primarily due to the acquisition of PDC Energy and 10% annual growth in the Permian Basin production. This year, Chevron targets another 10% increase in its Permian production. "We are in the best parts of the Permian," CFO Pierre Breber told Bloomberg in an interview. "Our growth is higher likely than the basin average but it is representative of our activity level and the activity level of our partners," Breber added. ExxonMobil, for its part, looks to always have drilled but uncompleted wells (DUCs) available in the Permian to allow it to be flexible with production if it runs into an issue in the immediate vicinity, CEO Darren Woods said on the earnings call last week. ExxonMobil has reached an optimized level of inventory "that allows us to keep a very efficient, I'd say, manufacturing process running versus a focus on production and production process," Woods added. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: ConocoPhillipsthe largest Citgo creditor thanks to Venezuelas $12 billion appropriation of Conocos assetshas made a bid in the U.S. court auction that is determining the fate of Venezuela-owned Citgo Petroleum. But ConocoPhillips submitted a credit bid using its claims in lieu of cash, people familiar with the process told Reuters on Friday. Conoco isnt the only company to attempt to apply their claims towards bids, a court officer overseeing the auction told Reuters. If approved, this turn of events would reduce the pot of cash available to be distributed among the remaining creditorscreditors that are trying to get just a piece of the $21 billion in debt that Venezuela owes. The bidding round was open until January 22, and all bids have been submitted. While other companies may be trying to use their claims instead of cash to bid, ConocoPhillips is the largest creditor, and a court approval of such a lofty bid using claims could leave scant cash available to the other companies due money from the auction. 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. The bidding round is for creditors and claimants against Venezuelas oil asset appropriation and debts owed by Venezuelas U.S.-based refiner Citgo. 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. The first in line to receive funds from the auction will be Canadian Crystallex, who is owed $1.4 billion and submitted the first claim against PDVSA after Venezuela nationalized its gold mine in the country. By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com ADVERTISEMENT More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: How long can the Houthis hold out? What does their arsenal look like, and what happens if the U.S. makes its response more severe? How long the Houthis can keep this up depends to a large extent on how much Iran is going to help. Earlier this week, the DIA released a report detailing Irans involvement in weaponizing the Houthis (since 2014), which suggests that the Houthis (for now) have enough of a guaranteed arsenal to continue the momentum of the attacks on vessels. Missiles being used According to Foreign Policy magazine, Egypts Suez Canal maritime trade has fallen by 42% in two months. Insurers are raising premiums. Ships are taking the longer and much more expensive route around the southern tip of Africa. The Houthi arent willing to cease and desist right now because they dont have to, and the Western response that has included attacks onshore has so far only served to lend the Houthis more credibility at home, which is exactly what they need and exactly what these attacks were all about in the first place (despite Houthi claims that this is all about supporting the Palestinians). There is no indication that the Houthis are preparing to halt their attacks on vessels traversing the Red Sea by the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, and retaliatory attacks by U.S.-led forces have so far failed to quell the barrage. Since mid-November, the Houthis have attacked 30 vessels, just under half of them direct strikes. There is no indication that the Houthis are preparing to halt their attacks on vessels traversing the Red Sea by the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, and retaliatory attacks by U.S.-led forces have so far failed to quell the barrage. Since mid-November, the Houthis have attacked 30 vessels, just under half of them direct strikes. The Houthi arent willing to cease and desist right now because they dont have to, and the Western response that has included attacks onshore has so far only served to lend the Houthis more credibility at home, which is exactly what they need and exactly what these attacks were all about in the first place (despite Houthi claims that this is all about supporting the Palestinians). According to Foreign Policy magazine, Egypts Suez Canal maritime trade has fallen by 42% in two months. Insurers are raising premiums. Ships are taking the longer and much more expensive route around the southern tip of Africa. How long can the Houthis hold out? What does their arsenal look like, and what happens if the U.S. makes its response more severe? How long the Houthis can keep this up depends to a large extent on how much Iran is going to help. Earlier this week, the DIA released a report detailing Irans involvement in weaponizing the Houthis (since 2014), which suggests that the Houthis (for now) have enough of a guaranteed arsenal to continue the momentum of the attacks on vessels. Missiles being used for air strikes and drones are Iranian-origin, according to the DIA. In other words, Iran can continue to deny it is arming the Houthis because it provides technology and parts and the Houthis assemble and redesign. The DIA also notes that the Houthis have four more missiles in their arsenal that they havent deployed yet, including one similar to Irans Shahab-3, which can reach Israel. Maersk has now warned that the disruption could drag out for a year. That disruption affects up to 15% of global trade and 30% of global container shipping. Maersk described avoidance of the Red Sea as an almost wholesale exodus. As of now, the costs are about $1 million more per vessel traversing the Red Sea en route to the Suez Canal. On Thursday, the U.S. and UK conducted another seven strikes on Houthi targets, hitting unmanned surface vessels and mobile anti-ship cruise missiles that were preparing to be launched at ships in the Red Sea. Concerns have also arisen that the Houthis could launch subsea attacks targeting cable infrastructure that would be highly disruptive to financial markets and communications. The Red Sea accounts for 17% of the worlds internet traffic, and Yemens public communications company (which is still controlled by Yemens UN-recognized govt), has warned that the Houthis are planning a sabotage attack. Experts, however, are skeptical that the Houthis have the capabilities to launch such a subsea attack. Regardless, the markets should be certain by now that the Houthis are in it for the long haul and the market disruption will continue for some time to come. Last April, Germany shut down its last three nuclear power stations, marking the end of the countrys atomic age. The controversial decision came at a time when Europe and the German public was beginning to warm up to nuclear energy in the wake of the continent's energy crisis following Russias invasion of Ukraine. "We will need more electric power in the future. That's a fact. And 6% can be a lot to miss when there is nothing new [to replace it]. We'd be losing 6% when we really will need more,"German Chancellor Olaf Scholz told Deutsche Welle in 2022 shortly after the invasion. Back then, Germany and scores of European nations were seriously rethinking their nuclear phaseout strategies with over 80% of the German public in favor of extending the lifespan of the country's existing nuclear reactors. The Washington Post even reported that Germany was repairing coal mines and power plants that were mothballed for more than a decade in what was dubbed a spring for Germanys coal sector. Previously, the country had set a goal to phase out coal-generated electricity by 2038. But with Germany and Europe having little trouble securing ample new gas supplies, mainly from the United States, the countrys ruling coalition has suddenly changed its tune. Scholz is now adamant that "nuclear energy is over" and the issue is "a dead horse in Germany" after facing criticism from members of the Free Democrats party who warned that suddenly ditching nuclear energy would only lead to burning more fossil fuels. "Anyone who wanted to build new nuclear power plants would need 15 years and would have to spend 15-20 billion each," Scholz went on. Two years ago, German politicians vehemently denounced the oppositions and the EUs attempt to label nuclear energy as sustainable. Related: Another Merger Being Explored in the U.S. Shale Space Well, Scholzs critics were right on the money. Berlin has unveiled plans to spend 16 billion on 10 gigawatts (GW) of new gas-fired power plants in a major overhaul of the country's energy grid. The governing coalition has announced that the new strategy is "in addition to the consistent expansion of renewable energies," and is key to providing steady power supplies "even in times where there is little sun and wind." The government has touted the fossil gas power plants as "modern, highly flexible and climate-friendly" because they will, subsequently, be converted to run on hydrogen in the mid-to-late 2030s. State-owned, multinational energy company Uniper has lauded the move, saying that swift action is urgently needed because the approval process and the actual construction of power plants and storage facilities will take several years."Germany is now a leading advocate phasing out nuclear energy at an EU level. As you might expect, environmental groups have come out swinging, with Greenpeace denouncing the strategy as a perfect example of how the hype around hydrogen is just a smokescreen for more fossil gas. On a purely emissions standpoint, nuclear energy is cleaner than natural gas because It produces zero carbon emissions; the lifecycle emissions of nuclear energy are significantly lower than in gas-based generation and it also doesn't produce other noxious greenhouse gasses. Unfortunately, several high-profile nuclear accidents including Three Mile Island, Chernobyl and Fukushima will probably remain etched in the public psyche for decades, if not centuries, to come making nuclear power the indelible dark sheep in the global energy mix. Natural gas is viewed much more favorably. Back To Renewable Energy Germany is also abandoning its short-lived love affair with coal. Last year, the countrys giant power firm, LEAG, announced it will convert its lignite-fired thermal power plants into Europes largest green energy hub, with a capacity between 7 GW and 14 GW. LEAG has a target to install between 7 GW and 14 GW of wind and solar energy capacity; 3 GWh of storage capacity and 2 GW for green hydrogen production in the Lusatia region in Eastern Germany by 2040. But Germany is hardly the only European nation that has rekindled its hatred for dirty fossil fuels. French energy giant Engie recently announced plans to build a 500 megawatt gas plant near the city of Nijmegen in the Netherlands on the site of a former coal-fired generator. Engie says the facility will be a hybrid plant and could be powered by hydrogen in the future. The United States natural gas and LNG bonanza is certainly helping Europe turn its nose up on carbon-heavy fossil fuels: With exports averaging 11.6 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) during the first half of 2023, and ~70% of exports going to Europe and much of the balance to Asia, the U.S. is now the worlds largest LNG exporter. ADVERTISEMENT By Alex Kimani for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Water resource management is emerging as a top regional policy issue for Kazakhstan. In just one sign of the governments growing concern, the Ministry for Water Resources and Irrigation is pushing for a contractual framework with China and Uzbekistan to regulate usage of transboundary rivers. A resource-management blueprint covering 2024-2030 is currently being negotiated, according to a report published by the Zakon.kz news outlet. The framework agreement would establish a system for joint management of river traffic and water flows between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, as well as fix volumes for water allocation for agricultural and other purposes by China and Kazakhstan. Water Resources Minister Nurzhan Nurzhigitov described the promotion of interstate cooperation on transboundary rivers as a top governmental priority. Beyond working with Tashkent and Beijing on river management, Kazakhstan intends to use its chairmanship this year of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS) to promote a sustainable system for sharing water resources. The organization is one of the few that brings together all five Central Asian states. At the most recent IFAS summit, Kazakh President Kasym-Jomart Tokayev voiced Astanas intention to have the organization play a more active role in regional water-management issues. IFAS has become the most important institution of regional cooperation in the issues of transboundary water resources sharing, as well as solving environmental and socio-economic problems in the Aral Sea basin, Tokayev told the gathering. It is difficult to overstate the role of the Fund in ensuring security, stability and sustainable development of Central Asia. Kazakh officials say a major aim of its IFAS chairmanship will be to encourage Kyrgyzstans closer engagement with the organization. Authorities in Astana are also keeping a wary eye on Afghanistan, where the Taliban government is pressing ahead with the construction of a canal that could divert a significant amount of water from the already stressed Amu Darya River. The project, if completed as envisioned, could upset Central Asias delicate water balance. Kazakhstan established its ministry for water resources in late 2023. The minister, Nurzhigitov, in an interview with Zakon.kz, said that since then, officials have implemented measures to encourage more rational use of resources within the country, including bringing irrigation systems and hydraulic structures into compliance with the standards, and facilitating the automation and digitalization of water supply processes. We need to see in real time where and how this water is being used, Nurzhigitov said. He added that authorities were also working on developing a system to use groundwater more efficiently. Unfortunately, today we only use a small percentage of groundwater, so there is work to be done in this area. By Eurasianet.org ADVERTISEMENT More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Brazils natural gas imports fell to a 20-year low last year, according to data from the National Agency for Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels (ANP). Brazils nat gas imports fell to 6.5 billion cubic meters, or 228 billion cubic feet, according to ANP, as the country boosts its hydroelectric capabilities as well as solar and wind capacity. The figures are on par with the amount of natural gas Brazil imported back in 2003, and compares to the 9 cubic meters imported in 2022, and 16.9 cubic meters imported in 2021, the data compiled by Reuters shows. The trend is clear: Brazil has been consistently importing smaller and smaller volumes of natural gas since 2015with the exception of the spike in 2021 as a severe drought impacted its hydroelectric capabilities. While natural gas imports may be falling, the nations national oil company, Petrobras, has budgeted a large $102 billion capex for 2024-2028a 31% increase over the plan from 2023-2027. Petrobras has earmarked $72 billion of that budget for spending on exploration and production activities. The state-run oil company has previously said that it plans to become the worlds fourth-largest oil producer by 2030. Petrobras has been under pressure to boost its natural gas production to reduce the price of natural gas for consumers, and several new natural gas projects are scheduled to start up beginning this yearthe first of which will be Rota 3. Brazil relies on hydroelectric power for between 66%-75% of its total power generationbut in 2015 and 2021, severe droughts affected Brazils ability to generate power from this source. Brazil has relied on gas-fired power to fill the gap, purchasing most of what it needs from Bolivia, supplemented by LNG from the United States and other places. By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com ADVERTISEMENT More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: The worlds third-biggest crude oil importer, India, is not worried about a shortage of oil supply despite the ongoing OPEC+ production cuts and Saudi Arabias decision to ditch capacity expansion plans, Indias Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, told Bloomberg on Friday. There is enough oil in the world and new suppliers are coming in, Puri said on the sidelines of an energy forum in India. You decide, you want to sell it or you want to keep it in the ground, the minister told Bloomberg. Saudi Aramco said last week it was ordered by the Kingdoms leadership to stop work on expanding its maximum sustainable capacity to 13 million barrels per day, instead keeping it at 12 million bpd. The worlds biggest oil firm said in a statement that it would update its capital spending plans for the year in March when it announces its 2023 financial results. If the Saudis or anyone else say they dont want to produce, I think they have the right to do it, Puri told Bloomberg. India is not concerned that OPEC+ is withholding supply, either, according to its petroleum minister. India imports more than 80% of the crude it consumes and aims to diversify its sources of oil supply, looking to buy barrels at bargain prices, including from Russia. Over the past two years, India has significantly raised its imports of Russian crude to the point that Russia became its top crude oil supplier, ahead of Middle Eastern producers and OPEC members Iraq and Saudi Arabia. Earlier this week, Puri told CNBC on the same forum, the India Energy Week, that India is keeping oil prices lower by buying oil from Russia. The world is grateful to India for buying Russian oil, the minister told CNBC. ADVERTISEMENT If we start buying more of the Middle Eastern oil, the oil price will not be at $75 or $76. It will be $150. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Japan Petroleum Exploration (Japex) believes that the U.S. is currently the most attractive destination for oil and gas investments, regardless of the political risk with the presidential election later this year. With its wealth of natural resources, low production costs, and well-developed infrastructure, we view the United States as the most enticing investment destination for E&P at present, Japexs senior managing executive officer, Michiro Yamashita, said at a press conference on Friday, as carried by Reuters. We are not thinking of slowing down the pace of our U.S. business, said Yamashita, who will become Japexs president effective April 1. Japex has development projects in southern Texas in the Eagle Ford, according to the Japanese companys website. In May 2022, Japex said it would invest approximately $500 million from 2022 to 2024 to develop tight oil interests in the southern United States which have already been acquired and interests to be acquired later this year. The most recent political risk for energy development in the United States came from the Biden Administrations decision at the end of January to pause all pending decisions on U.S. LNG export projects until the Department of Energy can update the underlying analyses for authorizations. Despite the fact that the pause in permitting has raised concerns in Japan which is heavily reliant on LNG imports this will not have any impact on Japexs business or earnings, according to Yamashita. Restarts of nuclear reactors, high gas inventories, and increased renewables power generation dragged Japans LNG imports in January to the lowest level for the month since 2009, vessel-tracking data compiled by Bloomberg showed last week. Last month, Japan imported just 6 million tons of LNG, the lowest level for the month of January in 15 years, as demand for the super-chilled fuel has declined in recent years. ADVERTISEMENT By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Thefts have caused some big box stores to lock socks and underwear under glass. John Breunig/Hearst Connecticut Media I shared an anecdote a few weeks ago about The Kid trying to persuade me to let him ice skate at the outdoor Mill River Park rink in Stamford. I reckoned his reckoning for refusing to wear socks had finally come, as I wouldnt let him rent skates without them. So he took mine (I insisted he turn them inside-out). I got cold feet at the thought of returning to the park last weekend, but still didnt think to pack socks. The Kid, of course, was determined to get back on the ice to polish his Salchow and Lutz moves in his second time on blades. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Gimme your socks, he said, like it was as natural as asking for a pen. Not this time, I replied. Lets go around the corner to Target and buy a pair. I knew Id be on thin ice there too. The Kid, 12, bypassed menswear and scrambled directly to the electronics department, picking up various video game devices with high prices and low security. I finally persuaded him we had to get the socks, only to discover Target now keeps them under lock and key. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Everybody I tell this to responds like its the story of the century. Granted, were only in February and doomed to reruns (The Donny and Joe Show). But it really is something to see an entire department transformed into an underwear museum. My decades-old routine for purchasing socks left me unsure how to proceed. The Kid, on the other hand, scanned the room for the jangling worker lugging keys around like he was the super for Central Park Tower. The Keymaster seemed to embrace his Tokienesque powers: Which socks do you desire? In that moment I began to question whether we have ceased to exist as a functioning society. He who wields the key to the underwear holds all the power. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Getting access to the key is like earning a Power Up in Mario Kart. Use it quickly before it vanishes. We made a panic buy of two pairs of boot socks and looped back to the rink. They got the job done and will probably never be worn again (as a bonus, I used the second pair for gloves, which Id also failed to bring). The Kid, who has autism, just doesnt like anything stepping on the freedom of his feet. Im just grateful he doesnt apply the same reasoning to underwear. The Sockdown is apparently the result of a rash of thefts that have been crippling bottom lines. Target closed nine locations across the United States last year. Security comes at a tradeoff. People will just stop buying socks at stores that treat basic footwear like jewelry. Plus, I cant really figure out how handing the product to the customer makes them any harder to steal. And yet, just like that, its easier to purchase pot in Connecticut than socks. I cant find much in the archives that testifies to anything similar occurring in Connecticut in the last century or so. Back in 1928, Waterbury detectives were assigned to figure out who stole 240 pairs of silk socks. As far as I can tell, it remains a cold case despite the small pool of potential suspects. The socks belonged to a pair of New Yorkers who brought them to Connecticut to sell on the street. Waterbury cops busted them and put the socks in storage in the police garage. The bright side for the salesmen was that their case was nolled when the evidence disappeared. Advertisement Article continues below this ad It also brought me back to 1989, when I was in the 30 Rock audience to see Jerry Seinfeld perform his laundry routine on a special celebrating the seventh anniversary of Late Night with David Letterman. Seinfeld offered a theory for why we all lose sole mates when emptying the dryer. Socks hate their lives, we know that, Seinfeld reasoned. They're in the shoes with stinky feet. The boring drawers. The dryer is their only chance to escape. So perhaps the socks just see big box stores as oppressive penal institutions and are plotting prison riots to gain their freedom. Or maybe theres a much simpler, much colder, reason for all of this. Too many people are still struggling to buy the basics in the wake of the pandemic. In December 2022, nearly 14,000 pairs of socks were swiped from Brians Angels Homeless Outreach in Bristol. Bombas, which donated the socks in the first place, replaced the stolen goods (the company donates an item to the homeless for every item purchased). Advertisement Article continues below this ad Retail chains, meanwhile, face a more daunting threat than people pocketing tighty whities. Quick investigative research reveals that Amazon will deliver a six pack of socks for $12.99 by tomorrow. Thats less than the two pair of boot socks from our panic purchase. As a bonus, these are by the brand Pair of Thieves (which are, fittingly, locked up in the chains). Of course, even Amazon cant meet the needs of a sockless tween at a skating rink. I need to stay on my toes. I may start wearing two pairs of socks in case of future emergencies. Or maybe The Kids had it right all along and we should all be more footloose. After a weak start to the week, crude oil benchmarks appear set for a weekly gain after the news broke that Israel has rejected a ceasefire offer from Hamas. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said there was no other solution than total victory, which contributed to the bullish oil sentiment. According to Bloomberg, oils gains this week have offset almost all of the losses from last week, which were prompted by hopes for a ceasefire. After starting the week at around $77 per barrel, Brent crude may end at $80 or slightly above, while West Texas Intermediate has topped $76 per barrel after starting below $72 on Monday. Benchmarks made some marked gains on Thursday amid renewed Israeli bombing in Gaza after the government rejected the ceasefire offer, prompting expectations of a prolonged and possibly extended conflict. The latter part of the expectation was a reaction to the news that the Iraqi government could reconsider its approval for the mission of a U.S.-led coalition in the country as U.S. forces strike Iran-linked groups on Iraqi territory. According to Baghdad government spokesman Yahya Rasool, the U.S. coalition "has become a factor for instability and threatens to entangle Iraq in the cycle of conflict". Even so, oil production has yet to be affected by events in the Middle East, Reuters noted in a report on prices, saying Norway and Guyana were ramping up their output and Russia has exporting more crude oil since the start of this month amid Ukrainian drone attacks on refineries. "I still expect the rangebound trading that we have become accustomed to recently will continue given the comfortable oil balance," ING chief commodity strategist Warren Patterson said, as quoted by Reuters. ADVERTISEMENT Separately, Patterson said in a note that Refined product draws in the US over the last week have been supportive for margins, while Red Sea disruptions and refinery outages also continue to provide support to refined product markets, particularly middle distillates. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Oil production by the members of the OPEC+ group fell by the most in six months in January, an S&P Global Platts survey has shown. Cuts agreed last year and field outages in Libya contributed to a combined 340,000-bpd monthly decline in OPEC+ production, the survey revealed, with the total at 41.21 million barrels daily. Of this, OPEC output stood at 26.49 million barrels daily and its partners output stood at 14.72 million barrels daily. The Platts figures confirm a Reuters survey from the end of January, which also found that OPEC+ production for the month had fallen by the most since July last year. That survey, however, pegged the decline in production at 410,000 bpd compared with December. In December, the extended cartels output actually increased, earlier surveys showed, but it seems that this year members have decided to take their reduction pledges more seriously. Some, however, posted higher production, including Saudi Arabia, where survey figures showed an increase of 40,000 bpd in January from December. Libya, however, did not reduce its production voluntarily in January. In its case, the output decline was the result of field blockades by protesters who demanded a change in social policies. The blockades affected Libyas largest field, El Sharara, which can produce up to 300,000 barrels of crude daily. Meanwhile, a month earlier, Angola left OPEC because it was unwilling to surrender any more of its output. On the contrary, the West African producer has been itching to start boosting its production, which was incompatible with the OPEC goals for this year. Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, suspended work on its oil production capacity expansion plan. Said plan was supposed to boost its maximum sustainable capacity from 12 million barrels daily to 13 million bpd in three years. The order for the suspension came earlier this month from the Saudi government. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com ADVERTISEMENT More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Shell has restarted crude oil deliveries from its Nigerian terminal to one of the countrys state-owned refineries, which is expected to resume operations this quarter after refurbishment. Shell Nigeria delivered 475,000 barrels of crude oil from its Bonny export terminal to the Port Harcourt refinery in January, Shells Bonny oil terminal manager Osita Nnajiofor told Reuters in an emailed statement on Friday. Port Harcourt is one of Nigerias four refineries which have been shut down for years and which the government is now looking to revamp and restart to cut reliance on fuel imports in OPECs largest African crude oil producer. Port Harcourt is nearly ready for a restart and will initially process 60,000 barrels per day (bpd) of crude, according to Reuters. The refinery is expected to ramp up processing rates to its full capacity of 210,000 bpd later in 2024. Nigerias domestic fuel industry received a boost from the private sector earlier this year, when the Dangote Refinery, Africas biggest, launched production of fuels in January. The refinery, owned by the Dangote Group of Africas richest man, Aliko Dangote, finally saw its start-up after years of delays. The refinery with a capacity of 650,000 bpd will meet 100% of Nigerias demand for all refined petroleum products and will also have a surplus of each of the products for export. The project, which has cost around $20 billion, up from initial cost estimates of between $12 billion and $14 billion, has seen years of delays. Nigeria hopes the new refinery will alleviate its chronic fuel shortage that has turned Africas biggest oil producer into a fuel importer. Nigeria, OPECs top crude oil producer in Africa, has had to rely on fuel imports due to a lack of enough capacity at its refineries, which had to undergo refurbishment in recent years. ADVERTISEMENT By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Ukraines SBU security service has carried out operations in southern Russia, attacking two Russian oil refineries with drones, causing a massive fire at one of the facilities, a Ukrainian source told Reuters on Friday. The drone attacks caused a large fire at the Ilsky refinery in the Krasnodar region in southern Russia. The fire has been put out, the Russian authorities said earlier today, without specifying the cause of the fire. The drones launched by Ukraine damaged the primary processing unit at the Ilsky refinery, the anonymous Ukrainian source told Reuters. The nearby Afipsky oil refinery was also targeted by Ukrainian drones, but Ukraine is still assessing the outcome of the operation, according to the source who spoke to Reuters. In recent weeks, Ukraine has stepped up drone attacks on Russian refineries and other energy infrastructure. Last month, a large refinery of Russian state oil giant Rosneft in southern Russia was damaged in a fire in a suspected Ukrainian drone attack. The 240,000 barrels-per-day refinery in Tuapse was hit by a fire, which was the result of a drone attack by the Ukrainian security service, a Ukrainian source told Reuters at the time. The SBU strikes deep into the Russian Federation and continues attacks on facilities which are not only important for the Russian economy, but also provide fuel for the enemy troops, the source told Reuters. The Tuapse refinery mostly exports its production of naphtha, high-sulfur diesel, fuel oil, and vacuum gasoil to Turkey, China, Malaysia, and Singapore. The drone attack at the Rosneft refinery in southern Russia took place days after another suspected drone attack forced Russias gas firm Novatek to suspend operations at a Baltic Sea fuel export terminal. ADVERTISEMENT The attacks and damages on Russian refineries have reduced Russias capability to process crude, which has led to higher Russian exports of crude oil, according to industry data and analyst estimates reported by Reuters. Higher crude exports could undermine the export cuts Moscow has pledged this quarter as part of the OPEC+ agreement. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: The U.S. oil and gas industry has donated $7.36 million to Donald Trumps campaign, clearly favoring him over his Republican rival for the nomination, Nikki Haley, and over incumbent President Joe Biden who has angered the sector with most of his energy policies since he took office. Groups outside Trumps campaign in the energy and natural resources sector have donated $7,365,208 to Trump, compared to just $807,233 to his remaining rival for the Republican presidential nomination, Haley, and only $634,736 to Bidens campaign, according to data collected by OpenSecrets. Some oil and gas industry donors, including shale pioneer Harold Hamm, last year donated to both Haley and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, as they didnt believe Trump had a chance to win the election, Bloomberg notes. However, oil industry donors began donating more money to Trump in the latter half of 2023. The oil and gas sector hasnt flocked to donate to President Bidens campaign, even though American oil and gas production hit record-high levels during his current term serving as president. U.S. oil and gas production and exports of petroleum and LNG were booming last year, but most in the industry say this was despite Bidens policies, not thanks to them. Methane emission rules, too few lease sales on federal land and waters, and the pause in new permits for LNG export projects have been some of the most recent issues that Americas oil and gas industry has picked with the Biden Administration. The sector associations have frequently criticized Bidens energy policies as hostile to the oil and gas industry and undermining the American economy and jobs. ADVERTISEMENT In the latest Dallas Fed Energy Survey, an executive at an E&P firm said The administrations continued war on the petroleum industry has an effect for sure, but we're seeing that the real world needs our industry, and the public is trumping the downward pressure the administration is trying to maintain. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Venezuela is sending troops to its border with Guyana in an escalation of tensions over Guyanas recent oil boom, according to reports citing satellite images and videos posted by Venezuelas military. Venezuela is attempting to annex an area known as Essequibo, in which Venezuelas President Nicolas Maduro in December said he would grant operating licenses for the exploration and exploitation of oil, gas, and mines. The Essequibo region encompasses about two-thirds of Guyanas territory and is where most of its oil resources lie, and the site of massive discoveries and new production by Exxon and partners. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) previously ruled that Essequibo is part of Guyana, although this is still not recognized by Venezuela. A written agreement was penned in December between the two that denounced the use of force, instead calling for a commission to address the disputes. We are not surprised by the bad faith of Venezuela, Guyanas Foreign Ministry said in a statement to the Wall Street Journal regarding the military action. We are disappointed, not surprised. Venezuela has said that it is boosting its defenses in response to U.S. military exercises in Guyana toward the end of the year and the presence of a UK anti-narcotics vessel that is in Guyanese waters. It has criticized ExxonMobil for depending on the U.S. military for its security and for its exploitation of Guyanas oil resources. Maduro had vowed a forceful response in the area that rightfully belongs to Venezuela. The Essequibo is ours! The deployment of troops to Essequibo comes as Maduro is facing planned presidential elections this year, with the Essequibo issue a popular one among Venezuelan voters. ADVERTISEMENT By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: One of the two men shot and killed by off-duty Omaha Police Department officers on Saturday fired a single shot at the officers before they shot 21 times at the mens vehicle, authorities said Thursday. At a Thursday afternoon press conference, Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer was joined by Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert to tell reporters and the community about the fatal shooting in South Omaha. The officers will not be charged with a crime, and Schmaderer said they acted in accordance with department policy. Schmaderer showed a 17-minute video that spliced together security footage from multiple businesses near 32nd and L Streets with details from witness statements and interviews with the involved officers. Both Schmaderer and Douglas County Attorney Don Kleine concluded that the officers use of deadly force was justified after reviewing all available evidence. Under state law, a Douglas County grand jury also will be empaneled to review the case. The press conference was held five days after the two officers, identified as northeast precinct Capt. Jay Leavitt and Officer Robert Soldo, shot and killed the two men while working as security personnel for a nightclub. The men have been identified as Fernando Rodriguez-Juarez, 26, and Jonathan Hernandez-Rosales, 28. Before the press conference, authorities had said little about the circumstances that led to the early morning shooting. Much of the interaction was caught on various surveillance videos, and the aftermath was captured on Soldos body camera. Soldo did not activate his camera until after all of the shots had been fired, Schmaderer said. Stothert and Schmaderer offered their condolences to the families of Rodriguez-Juarez and Hernandez-Rosales. Schmaderer said he knows the shooting may have an impact on police-community relations in South Omaha, and he plans to continue to answer questions that community members may have. I think weve taken measures here by transparency and accountability to catapult us into the next phase of re-establishing and re-instilling the police-community relations, Schmaderer said. Ill be meeting with a group representing Latinos, and we will meet Monday, and Im gonna give them an expanded explanation as to what took place. According to the video and statements from officials: Rodriguez-Juarez and Hernandez-Rosales were at the Extasis Nightclub, located at 3050 L St., until the bar closed at 2 a.m. Saturday. Leavitt and Soldo were working as off-duty security for the nightclub, and they were wearing Omaha police uniforms. Soldo had a body camera attached to his uniform, but Leavitt did not because he is a command officer. Surveillance video showed Rodriguez-Juarez and Hernandez-Rosales walk past the two officers and out the front door of the bar. Outside the bar, the two appeared to engage in a physical confrontation with a large group of people who had gathered outside. Leavitt approached the group with his flashlight at 2:01 a.m., and the parties began to scatter. The two men left with the rest of the crowd and went to the back parking lot of Extasis, where they entered a black Jeep Cherokee. Rodriguez-Juarez entered the drivers seat, and Hernandez-Rosales sat in the passenger seat. At 2:03 a.m., the Jeep exited the Extasis parking lot and headed west on L Street. At the same time, according to video footage, a group of patrons were walking through the parking lot of Sols Jewelry and Loan, which is located directly to the west of Extasis. Some of the people in the group had been involved in the altercation outside of the nightclub minutes earlier. Leavitt and Soldo were walking behind the group to clear the parking lot, which is a normal part of their duties. At about 2:05 a.m., the Jeep Cherokee is seen on surveillance footage pulling into the west entrance and slowing down to confront the group. A grainy surveillance video appears to show Rodriguez-Juarez, the driver, reaching across Hernandez-Rosales and pointing a gun in the direction of the group. According to police, Rodriguez-Juarez fired one shot towards officers. Police also showed a video with audio from the interior of Anytime Laundry at 3120 L St., a little farther west, in which a single gunshot is audible before a long volley of shots seconds later. Leavitt began shooting into the passenger side of the vehicle as Soldo crossed in front of the Jeep, narrowly escaping being hit by the moving car, and shot into the front of the vehicle. According to Schmaderer, Leavitt fired 12 times and Soldo fired nine. Hernandez-Rosales and Rodriguez-Juarez were each hit three times. After the men were shot, the car began to roll down the alley before it crashed into a utility box and came to a stop. The officers yelled at the men to stop the car as it rolled away, according to video caught on Soldos body camera. That footage will be released after the grand jury process is completed, Schmaderer said. Police shared still photos from the body camera at Thursdays press conference. Officers continued to yell at the men to get out of the car after it came to a stop. Hernandez-Rosales and Rodriguez-Juarez did not exit the vehicle. Its unclear if they were physically able to do so, given the extent of their injuries. At one point, one of the men yelled that he needed an ambulance. Backup officers arrived with bulletproof shields to approach the car within minutes of the initial shooting. Medics were allowed into the scene about eight minutes after shots were fired, and both men were transported to the Nebraska Medical Center, where they died. Officers did not want to approach, Schmaderer said when asked Thursday about the delay in allowing medics into the scene. They had to wait for a shield to approach. The car was still running, so that was approximately eight minutes. A single 9 mm round was recovered from inside of the Jeep in the backseat, as was a semi automatic 9 mm Taurus handgun. Michael Pecha, a public information officer at OPD, said in the video that the location of the spent casing is consistent with the positioning of the handgun at the time it was fired, as it fired out of the front passenger window. In addition, according to Schmaderer, Hernandez-Rosales had stippling burns, which are caused by unburned gunpowder striking the skin, on his face and neck a sign that a gun had been fired within close proximity to his face. Schmaderer also said at the press conference that Hernandez-Rosales and Rodriguez-Juarez were in the country illegally, but he said their immigration status was shared only for background purposes and was by no means to be used as a justification for the shooting. Hernandez-Rosales, who came to the U.S. from Nicaragua, was involved in immigration proceedings. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement had no record of Rodriguez-Juarez. The League of United Latin American Citizens released a statement Thursday seeking a federal investigation into the shooting. The Omaha Public Schools board has narrowed its superintendent search to four finalists for the job of leading Nebraskas largest school district. The finalists include the current OPS interim superintendent and three other current or former school administrators from Michigan, Florida and Iowa. The four, who were announced at Thursdays school board meeting, are: Luis Solano, deputy superintendent of the Detroit Public Community School District Solano is one of several administrators leading a school district of roughly 50,000 students. He previously served as associate superintendent in the Collier County Public Schools in Florida as well as a principal in the Miami Dade County Public Schools in Florida. He received his education specialist degree, masters degree in special education and bachelors degree in special education from Florida International University in Miami. Matt Ray, current interim superintendent of OPS Ray began his role as interim superintendent on July 1 to fill Cheryl Logans role during the superintendent search. He earned two bachelors degrees from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, one in criminal justice and a second in elementary education. He received a masters degree in educational administration in 2000 and an educational specialist degree from the University of Nebraska at Kearney in 2020. Hes worked for the district for 27 years in many roles, from a fifth grade teacher to board secretary to chief of staff. Christopher Bernier, superintendent of the School District of Lee County Bernier currently leads a district of more than 90,000 students in Fort Myers, Florida. He received a doctorate in education from the University of Central Florida in Orlando. He also received a masters degree in educational leadership from NOVA Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and a bachelors degree in U.S. history from Le Moyne College in Syracuse, New York. Berniers previous positions include chief of staff in the Clark County School District in Las Vegas, Nevada; associate superintendent and senior director of professional development in the Orange County Public Schools in Orlando, Florida; and principal in Orlando. Thomas Ahart, former superintendent of the Des Moines Public Schools Ahart was superintendent of the Des Moines Public Schools, which has roughly 30,000 students, for a decade before resigning in 2022. He currently works as a consultant for the Council of Great City Schools. His previous positions include associate superintendent and principal in the Des Moines district, plus director of human resources in the Ankeny Community School District in Ankeny, Iowa. He received his doctorate in education and education specialist degree from Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, and a bachelors degree in speech communications from the University of Denver in Colorado. The OPS board has been searching for its next superintendent since the resignation of Logan in December 2022. Ray was appointed as interim superintendent in February 2023 and board members hired search firm GR Recruiting in March 2023 to conduct the search process. The job application window opened Oct. 17 and closed Jan. 16. The board received 26 applications before whittling the names down to the final four Thursday. Weve said throughout the search, we take this responsibility most seriously, said Spencer Head, board president. The public is invited to meet each of the finalists on Monday from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Buena Vista High School, 5616 L St. Members of the public will be able to get to know each candidate and give the school board their feedback. The school board will then publicly interview each finalist at 5 p.m. on Tuesday at the district headquarters, 3215 Cuming St. We look forward to the next steps of our search and invite our community to participate, said Ricky Smith, board vice president. Were grateful for their input throughout the search. Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of February 2024 A $1.9 million state grant will lead to the construction of 13 houses in Bellevue to replace some of those that were lost in the 2019 floods. In a press conference at Bellevue City Hall on Friday, Gov. Jim Pillen, along with Nebraska Economic Development Director K.C. Belitz, announced that the grant will finance the construction of the single-family homes. The grant was awarded to the Housing Foundation for Sarpy County, which is working with Omaha metro area homebuilder Sudbeck Homes to construct the homes. The houses will be located in the 51st Street and Lookingglass Drive area, which is in the southern part of Nebraskas third-largest city. Its really, really important that the State of Nebraska plays a great role in helping our communities, Pillen said. Melvin Sudbeck of Sudbeck Homes told reporters that the company expects to break ground in about four months. The first houses are expected to be completed next year. The new homes will make up only a small fraction of the 399 homes Bellevue lost in the spring 2019 floods. Most of the houses lost were in lower-income neighborhoods, said Carolyn Pospisil, executive director of the countys housing foundation. City and housing leaders placed an emphasis on bringing back people who were displaced by the floods. She said the foundation will reach out to people who expressed interest in returning during a survey conducted in the floods aftermath. Well be able to reach out first to those families. And then after that, well be able to open them up to the market, Pospisil said. Most of the upcoming houses are expected to be sold in the low-$200,000 range. The average house will have three bedrooms and two bathrooms. This isnt going to just be 13 homes that look all the same in the same area, Pospisil said. Pospisil told reporters the new homes will open Sarpy County up to people who dont necessarily have high incomes. Basically, families that are making $80,000 per year or less dont really have an option right now for homeownership in Sarpy County, she said. This will allow us to build things (with) higher-quality building products with a little bit less of a (price) tag. Pospisil said the state grant and plan to build those homes could provide a blueprint toward getting more middle-class families to move to Sarpy County. This has given us a chance to rethink what homeownership looks like for families that are in middle incomes and middle-class families, she said. Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of February 2024 Gov. Ned Lamont speaks on the opening day of the Connecticut General Assembly session, in Hartford, Conn. Feb. 7, 2024. Ned Gerard/Hearst Connecticut Media State Rep. Toni Walker, D-New Haven, is co-chairwoman of the legislature's budget-writing Appropriations Committee. Jim Michaud / Hearst Connecticut Media State Rep. Geraldo Reyes, D-Waterbury, told the governor's budget chief on Thursday that more money needs to be invested in the state's housing crisis. Ken Dixon/Hearst Connecticut Media Gov. Ned Lamont's budget chief on Thursday sparred with members of the General Assembly's budget-writing committee over higher-education funding, the homeless and the need to spend $56 million dollars in federal pandemic relief before it disappears at the end of the calendar year. During a two-and-a-half-hour-long session with the Appropriations Committee, Jeffrey Beckham, secretary of the Office of Policy and Management, said that state community colleges and universities have to live within their means. He added that the governor is making major commitments to expand the state's stock of dwelling units, including about $800 million in housing authorizations. Beckham stressed that there will be a pressing need to make sure that an estimated $56 million remaining in the state's $2.8 billion federal American Rescue Plan Act gets allocated by the end of December, after some of the nonprofit organizations targeted for the relief failed in federal reporting requirements because they might not have the personnel or expertise to successfully complete paperwork. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "I'm kind of stunned and disappointed," said state Rep. Gregg Haddad, a Democrat whose Mansfield district includes the UConn campus. Haddad, co-chairman of the legislative Higher Education and Employment Committee, noted that there have already been major reductions in staff and faculty, along with higher tuition at all institutions; and 1,800 fewer slots for in-state students at UConn as higher-paying out-of-state students win admission. "And still, after implementing all of those cuts, the universities and colleges say they are somewhere between $140 and $150 million short," Haddad said. "We have a crisis. And this administration has no plan to address that concern." "The universities - both systems - are working on their issues," Beckham said. "We're working with them. We talk to them early and often. They are implementing the budget that was enacted last year with an overwhelming bipartisan majority. We don't happen to have operational resources that we are recommending to them. They have some work to do on the operation side. At some point, they need to sharpen their pencil. They've got a structural problem in both systems that they need to address." The Connecticut State Colleges and Universities system recently offered modest buy-out packages to retirement-age professors in attempt to try to save money. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Beckham said that flagship state universities around the country are experiencing identical financial shortfalls. "UConn relies on state support to a much-greater degree than most of their peers around the country," Beckham said, adding that faculty-student ratios at UConn are also higher than other state universities. "All we're asking is that there is some leverage they clearly can move there to get some of their structural issues under control, and they're doing that." "Just to be clear, the institutions and the systems have indicated to you that they continue to be in deficit, after tuition increases, staff and faculty reductions and a change in the mix of students, and I guess I just heard from you is that more of that is where they should go," Haddad said. "I tend to disagree. Your response, I think, will just be small solace to students who are paying, you know, close to $5,000 more for a degree at our flagship university; or community college students who simply are going to find it unaffordable to go to even community college in Connecticut." State Sen. Saud Anwar, D-South Windsor and state Rep. Geraldo Reyes, D-Waterbury, whose district is one of the state's poorest, led criticism on the governor's budget proposal on the state housing shortage. "In a crisis, I think we have to move the funds to where the actual crisis is and I think that this budget that I see here isn't addressing what we call a crisis," Reyes said. "My question for you is: why can't we move more money to this now, while we're facing the highest evictions ever in the state of Connecticut?" Beckham said the biggest problem is the lack of a supply of units in the state. He said that state capital bonding currently stands on $430 million in each year of the biennial budget approved last year. "More supply would go a long way to helping with these issues," Beckham said, stressing that housing is a "signature issue" for Lamont's second four-year term, which started in January, 2023. "He cares very much about this issue." Advertisement Article continues below this ad "Not every community is seeing the dire need I am seeing," Reyes said. State Rep. Toni Walker, D-New Haven, co-chairwoman of the Appropriations Committee, stressed to Beckham that it is the legislature, not the governor, who must approve the remaining allocations of the $2.8-billion in ARPA money. Beckham said that the governor's budget wants to have contingencies in case the state finds itself in December with a projected $56 million in ARPA money not earmarked for a destination. "We won't know until we get closer to the end of the year what's the probability of getting the allocation out," Beckham said. "It's got to go somewhere quickly, by the end of the year." Walker described "a lot of pitfalls" over the distribution of the ARPA funding because people did not understand the contracting requirements. Others lacked staff to complete reporting applications. "We have to set a timeline for things to be completed," Walker said to Beckham, sternly stressing that it has been frustrating. "I don't think the sincerity of trying to get the money out the door to the people that we wanted to directed to was really an effort from everybody's part." Advertisement Article continues below this ad "The federal rules were complicated, and the federal rules require a lot of reporting that some of our community providers aren't familiar with, and there's a reluctance to sign up for some of that," Beckham replied. "That's taken a little while. We want to move the money. I don't want to give it back. I want to spend it." Lamont's proposal to adjust the second year of the budget that starts on July 1, was laid out in a 200-page document presented to lawmakers on Wednesday, when the 13-week session started. Committees have short time frames to raise bills for public hearings, hold the hearings, and vote on bills to send to the House and Senate. Its time for fish fry Fridays in Omaha. Many Omaha area parishes will be frying up fish on Friday nights during Lent, which begins Wednesday and ends March 28. Most locations offer dinners of fried fish with sides, and some also sell beer and other drinks. Meal prices range from $10 to $15, and some offer discounts for children. Many fish fries also offer both dine-in and carryout meal options. Here are the Omaha area fish fry locations and the dates they will be serving: OMAHA Fish Fry Fry-Days at the Scottish Rite Masonic Center 202 S. 20th St. Fridays from March 8-22, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Dine in and carryout available Croatian Cultural Society of Omaha Fish Fry 8711 S. 36th St. Fridays from Feb. 16 to March 29, 4-7 p.m. Dine in and carryout available Holy Name Catholic Church Fish Fry 2901 Fontenelle Blvd. Fridays from Feb. 9 to March 22, 4-8:30 p.m., doors close at 8 p.m. Dine in and carryout available All Holy Spirit Fish Fry at the Autism Center of Nebraska 9012 Q St. Fridays from Feb. 16 to March 29, 4:30-8 p.m. Dine in and carryout available Fish Fry at St. Patricks Catholic Church in Elkhorn 20500 West Maple Road Fridays from Feb. 16 to March 22, 5-8 p.m. Dine in and drive-thru available Fish Fry at St. Stephen the Martyr Catholic Church 16701 S St. Fridays from Feb. 16-March 22, 5-8 p.m. Dine in and carryout available Fish Fry at St. Vincent DePaul Catholic Church 14330 Eagle Run Drive Fridays from Feb. 16 to March 22, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Dine in and carryout available Fish Fry at St. James Catholic Church 4720 N. 90th St. Feb. 16, March 1 and March 15, 5-8 p.m. Dine in and carryout available St. Gerald Parish Friday Fish Dinners 9602 Q St. Fridays from Feb. 16 to March 22, 4-7 p.m. Dine in, carryout and drive-thru available Fish Fry at Christ the King Catholic Church 654 S. 86th St. February 16, March 1 and March 15, 5-7:30 p.m. Dine in and drive-thru available St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church Fish Fry 602 Park Ave. Fridays from Feb. 16 to March 22, 4:30-8:00 p.m. Dine in and carryout available Fish Fry at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church 5419 N 114th St. Feb. 23, March 8 and March 22, 5-7:30 p.m. Saint John Vianney Fish Fry 5801 Oak Hills Drive Fridays from Feb. 16 to March 22, 4:30 to 8 p.m. Dine-in and drive thru available Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Fish Fry 2124 S 32nd Ave. Feb. 16, March 1 and March 15, 5-8 p.m. Dine in and carry-out available Mary Our Queen Church Fish Fry 3405 S 118th St. Fridays from Feb. 16 to March 22, 5-7 p.m. Anyone in line at 7 p.m. is able to eat. Dine in and drive thru available VFW Post 2503 Friday Fish Fry 8904 Military Road Feb. 16, Feb. 23, March 1, March 8 and March 22 5:30-7 p.m. Fraternal Order of Eagles #154 Fish Fry 6607 Sunshine Drive Every Friday during Lent from 5:30-7:30 p.m. PAPILLION Fish Fry at St. Columbkille Catholic Church 200 E. Sixth St. in Papillion Fridays from Feb. 16 to March 22, 5-8 p.m., drive-thru open 5-7 p.m. Bellevue Berry Farm Fish Fry 11001 S. 48th St. in Papillion Fridays from Feb. 16 to March 29, 4:30-9 p.m. Dine in and carryout available. Play areas will be open. GRETNA Gretna American Legion Fish Fry 11690 S. 216th St. in Gretna Fridays from Feb. 16 to March 29, 5-8 p.m. All you can eat Fish Fry at St. Patrick Catholic Church 508 W. Angus St. in Gretna Fridays from Feb. 16 to March 22, 5-8 p.m. Fish Fry at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church 7790 S. 192nd St. in Gretna Fridays from Feb. 16 to March 22, 5-7:30 p.m. Dine in and carryout available VALLEY Fish Fry at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church 307 E. Meigs St. in Valley Fridays from Feb. 16 to March 15, 5-8 p.m. Dine in and carryout available COUNCIL BLUFFS Fish Fry at Corpus Christi Catholic Parish 3304 Fourth Ave. in Council Bluffs Fridays from Feb. 16 to March 22, 4:30-7 p.m. Dine in and carryout available SPRINGFIELD St. Joseph Catholic Church Knights of Columbus 100 S. Ninth St. in Springfield Feb. 23, March 1, 15 and 22, 5-7:30 p.m. Know of a fish fry not on this list? Email lstephens@owh.com Photos: Nebraskans take advantage of short-lived ice fishing season WASHINGTON The Supreme Court seems poised to reject attempts to kick former President Donald Trump off the 2024 ballot, with conservative and liberal justices in apparent agreement in a case that puts them at the heart of a presidential election. A definitive ruling for Trump, the leading Republican candidate for president, would largely end efforts in Colorado, Maine and elsewhere to prevent his name from appearing on the ballot. The justices could act quickly, possibly by Super Tuesday on March 5, when Colorado, Maine and 13 other states will hold primaries. Conservative and liberal justices alike questioned during arguments Thursday whether Trump can be disqualified from being president again because of his efforts to undo his loss in the 2020 election to Democrat Joe Biden, ending with the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. Their main concern was whether Congress must act before states can invoke a constitutional provision that was adopted after the Civil War to prevent former officeholders who "engaged in insurrection" from holding office again. There also were questions about whether the president is covered by the provision. Ballot efforts In the first ruling of its kind, Colorado's Supreme Court decided that the provision, Section 3 of the 14th amendment, could be applied to Trump, who the court found incited the Capitol attack. But on a Supreme Court that prefers to avoid cases in which it is the final arbiter of a political dispute, the justices appeared to be searching for a consensus ruling and the issue of congressional action seemed to draw the most support. Justice Elena Kagan was among several justices who wanted to know "why a single state should decide who gets to be president of the United States." Eight of the nine justices suggested they were open to at least some of the arguments made by Jonathan Mitchell, Trump's lawyer at the Supreme Court. Trump could win his case if the court finds just one of those arguments persuasive. Justice Sonia Sotomayor sounded most skeptical of Mitchell's arguments, though she too might not vote to uphold the Colorado ruling that found that Trump "engaged in insurrection" and is ineligible to be president. In another sign of trouble for the Colorado voters who sued to remove Trump from the ballot, the justices spent little time talking about whether Trump actually "engaged in insurrection" following the 2020 election. Lawyer Jason Murray, representing the voters, pressed the point that Trump incited the Capitol attack to prevent the peaceful handover of power "for the first time in history." Mitchell argued that the Capitol riot was not an insurrection and, even if it was, Trump did not directly participate. Trump, speaking to reporters after the proceedings, called the Supreme Court argument "a beautiful thing to watch in many respects," even as he complained about the case being brought in the first place. Trump could be back before the Supreme Court in a matter of days to seek an emergency order to keep his election subversion trial on hold so he can appeal lower-court rulings that he is not immune from criminal charges. That issue had a brief airing Thursday, when Justice Brett Kavanaugh said a more legally sound approach to disqualifying someone from office is found in a federal criminal statute against insurrection. Someone prosecuted for insurrection "if convicted, could be or shall be disqualified" from office, Kavanaugh said. Mitchell agreed, but with a caveat, Trump's claim of immunity. "So we would not concede that he can be prosecuted for what he did on January 6th," Mitchell said. The exchange was largely hypothetical because, while Trump faces criminal charges related to Jan. 6, he has not been charged under the insurrection statute. Court arguments The justices heard more than two hours of history-laden arguments in their first case considering Section 3 of the 14th amendment. Chief Justice John Roberts worried that a ruling against Trump would prompt efforts to disqualify other candidates, "and surely some of those will succeed." Trump's lawyers argue that the amendment can't be used to keep Trump off the ballot for several reasons. For one thing, they contend the Jan. 6 riot wasn't an insurrection, and even if it was, Trump did not go to the Capitol or join the rioters. The wording of the amendment also excludes the presidency and candidates running for president, they claim. Even if they are wrong about all of that, they argue that Congress must pass legislation to reinvigorate Section 3. The lawyers for Republican and independent voters who sued to remove Trump's name from the Colorado ballot counter that there is ample evidence that the events of Jan. 6 constituted an insurrection and that Trump incited it. They say it would be absurd to apply Section 3 to everything but the presidency or that Trump is somehow exempt. The provision needs no enabling legislation, they argue. The issues may be novel, but Trump is no stranger to the justices, three of whom Trump appointed when he was president. They have considered many Trump-related cases in recent years, declining to embrace his claims of fraud in the 2020 election and refusing to shield tax records from Congress and prosecutors in New York. JERUSALEM Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday said he ordered the military to prepare a plan to "evacuate" civilians from Rafah ahead of an expected Israeli invasion of the densely populated southern Gaza city. The announcement came after heavy international criticism, including from the U.S., of Israeli intentions to move ground forces into the city that borders Egypt. Rafah had a prewar population of roughly 280,000, and according to the United Nations is now home to some 1.4 million additional people living with relatives, in shelters or in sprawling tent camps after fleeing fighting elsewhere in Gaza. Israel already has begun to strike Rafah from the air. Airstrikes overnight and into Friday hit two residential buildings in Rafah, while two other sites were bombed in central Gaza, including one that damaged a kindergarten-turned-shelter for displaced Palestinians. AP journalists who saw the bodies arriving at hospitals confirmed at least 22 people were killed. Israel claims Rafah is the last remaining Hamas stronghold in Gaza after more than four months of war. "It is impossible to achieve the goal of the war of eliminating Hamas by leaving four Hamas battalions in Rafah," Netanyahu's office said. "On the contrary, it is clear that intense activity in Rafah requires that civilians evacuate the areas of combat." It said he ordered the military and security officials to come up with a "combined plan" that includes both a mass evacuation of civilians and the destruction of Hamas' forces in the town. Israel declared war after Hamas militants took about 250 hostages during the Oct. 7 attack in which fighting also left about 1,200 people dead. Since then, an Israeli air and ground offensive has killed about 28,000 Palestinians, most of them women and children, according to local health officials. About 80% of Gazas 2.3 million people have been displaced, and the territory plunged into a humanitarian crisis. Netanyahu has largely rebuffed international criticism of the civilian death toll, but that criticism grew in recent days as Netanyahu and other leaders vow to move into Rafah. U.S. President Joe Biden said Thursday that Israel's conduct in the war is "over the top," the harshest U.S. criticism yet of its close ally. The State Department said an invasion of Rafah in the current circumstances "would be a disaster." It remains unclear where civilians can go. The Israeli offensive caused widespread destruction, especially in northern Gaza, and hundreds of thousands of people do not have homes to return to. In addition, Egypt has warned that any movement of Palestinians across the border into Egypt would threaten the four-decade-old peace treaty between Israel and Egypt. The border crossing between Gaza and Egypt, which is mostly closed, serves as the main entry point for humanitarian aid. Israel imposed financial restrictions on the main U.N. agency providing aid in the Gaza Strip, a measure which prevented a shipment of food for 1.1 million Palestinians from reaching the war-battered enclave, the agency's director said Friday. The restrictions deepened a crisis between Israel and UNRWA, whose operations have been threatened following Israeli accusations that some of its workers participated in the Oct. 7 attack. Those accusations led major donor nations, including the U.S., to suspend funding to the U.N. organization and left its future in question. UNRWA's director, Philippe Lazzarini, said Friday that that a convoy of food donated by Turkey has been sitting for weeks in the Israeli port city of Ashdod. The agency said that the Israeli contractor they work with received a call from Israeli customs authorities ordering them not to process any UNRWA goods. That stoppage means 1,049 shipping containers of rice, flour, chickpeas, sugar and cooking oil enough to feed 1.1 million people for one month are stuck, even as an estimated 25% of families in Gaza face catastrophic hunger. The World Food Program warned Friday that Gaza could be plunged into famine as early as May. Growing friction Comments from top U.S. officials about Rafah suggest growing friction with Netanyahu after a visit to the region by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Blinken, who has been working with Egypt and Qatar on trying to mediate a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, left the region Thursday without an agreement. He said he believed it was still possible to strike a deal that would include an extended pause in fighting in exchange for the release of many of the more than 100 hostages held by Hamas. Netanyahu appeared to snub Blinken, saying he will settle for nothing short of "total victory." The Israeli leader has said the war seeks to destroy Hamas' military and governing capabilities and return all hostages home. With Blinken still in town, Netanyahu said achieving those goals would require an operation in Rafah. Vedant Patel, a State Department spokesman, said Thursday that going ahead with such an offensive "with no planning and little thought in an area where there is sheltering of a million people would be a disaster." John Kirby, the White House's national security spokesman, said an Israel ground offensive in Rafah is "not something we would support." With the war now in its fifth month, Israeli ground forces are still focusing on the city of Khan Younis, just north of Rafah, but Netanyahu repeatedly said Rafah will be next, creating panic among hundreds of thousands of displaced people. Overnight strikes Shortly after midnight Friday, a residential building was struck near Rafah's Kuwaiti Hospital, killing five people from the al-Sayed family, including three children and a woman. A second Rafah strike killed three more people. Another overnight strike, in the central town of Deir al-Balah, claimed nine lives. In central Gaza, a strike hit near a kindergarten-turned-shelter, damaging the building. It killed five and wounded several more people. Witnesses said shelter residents were asleep at the time. JERUSALEM Chants of "Now! Now! Now!" ring out at nearly every protest in Israel imploring the government to do everything possible to win the immediate release of dozens of hostages held by Hamas. But a small group of hostages' families is pushing a different message: Let the army first finish the job of defeating the militant group, even if that delays the return of their loved ones. These families argue that the price to be paid in any hostage deal the release of large numbers of Palestinian militants held by Israel would endanger the country in the future. "When you release terrorists, they will return to murder. That's how it has always been," said Tzvika Mor, whose son Eitan, 23, was abducted four months ago from the Nova music festival, where he was working as a security guard. "How can you stand in front of people and say, 'I want my son back, and I don't care about you?'" Mor told The Associated Press by phone. "Instead of us only worrying about our son, we are concerned for the whole country." Most of the hostages' relatives sharply disagree with Mor, saying only a deal can free the captives and that their chances of survival are increasingly dim given the dangerous conditions in Gaza. Those fears were heightened late Wednesday when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected the latest Hamas demands for a hostage deal as delusional and instead vowed to pursue war until "total victory." The hostages' plight has captured the Israeli public's attention since they were seized during the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas militants on southern Israel that sparked the war. Protests calling on the government to reach a deal with Hamas have grown in size and intensity as the crisis dragged on. Fearing that time is running out to bring them home safely, protesters have grown increasingly vocal in some cases grabbing microphones and letting out blood-curdling screams. Mor said he knows his opinion is "different from what's acceptable" and is even viewed as unnatural. In December, Alon Nimrodi, the father of hostage Tamir Nimrodi, told Mor during a live show on Israel's Channel 11, "just because you gave up on your son, doesn't mean I will give up on mine," causing Mor to break down in tears. The Mor family and two other hostages' families founded the Tikva Forum, a loosely organized group whose public members are mostly religious and right-wing. They share the belief that military pressure, not an immediate cease-fire or hostage release deal, is the best way to bring their loved ones home. Mor said his critics can't understand how he could put his ideology above the natural response to seek the safe return of loved ones. He and others in the forum say they are being rational and that their critics are being led by their emotions. Militants took about 250 hostage during the Oct. 7 attack in which fighting also left about 1,200 people dead, mostly civilians. Israel's ensuing war on Hamas in Gaza has killed more than 27,000 Palestinians, two-thirds of whom are women and children, according to local health officials in Gaza, where Hamas continues to hold sway in some areas. During a weeklong cease-fire in November, about 100 hostages were released in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners, mostly women and children who were convicted of minor offenses. In its latest demands, Hamas seeks the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including those convicted of killing Israelis during the long-running conflict, in exchange for freeing all the hostages. That's unacceptable to the Tikva Forum, whose views hew closely to Netanyahu's. "Surrendering to the delusional demands of Hamas that we have heard not only won't lead to the release of the hostages, it will invite another massacre," Netanyahu told reporters Wednesday. Netanyahu's words were devastating for the vast majority of hostages' families. "I'm extremely scared that if you continue along this path there won't be any more hostages to release," said 72-year-old Adina Moshe, who was among the hostages freed in November, referring to Netanyahu. As Hamas leaders arrived in Cairo on Thursday for another round of talks, Mor was in the United States arguing Israel's case for continued military pressure. Mor lives in Kiryat Arba, a Jewish settlement that is known for its far-right ideology and that is next to Hebron, the largest Palestinian city in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Mor said other hostages' families are associated with the Tikva Forum, not just its three founding families, and that they share the belief that continued military pressure is key to releasing the captives. He said many members do not want to be publicly identified because they are worried that Hamas could make conditions worse for their loved ones. Ditza Or is a founding member of the Tikva Forum. Her son Avinatan was last seen being marched away from the music festival by Hamas militants as his girlfriend, Noa Argamani, screamed "don't kill me!" Several weeks ago, Hamas released a video showing Argamani alive, but there has been no word of her fate since. Avinatan's uncle, Shimon Or, said he believes that Avinatan would be proud of his family's stance. Negotiations must be made from a place of strength, he said. "They are identifying our weaknesses and in another few years they'll attack us again," he said, referring to Hamas. Liran Berman fears for the worst if Israel stays on its current course. His 26-year-old brothers, twins Gali and Ziv Berman, were abducted from Kibbutz Kfar Aza. "We see that when there's a deal, hostages return, and in between, when there isn't, only bodies come back," said Berman. "Only through a deal we will get my brothers back." Today is Friday, Feb. 9, 2024. Get caught up with today's top headlines and weather. Keep scrolling for celebrity birthdays and a look back at this date in history. Plus, check out our daily news podcast: *** Tucker Carlson interview with Vladimir Putin released Russian President Vladimir Putin used an interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson to urge Washington to recognize Moscow's interests and persuade Ukraine to sit down for talks. Putin also said that Russia stands ready to negotiate a potential prisoner exchange that would free Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who was detained last March on espionage charges he denies, and hinted that Moscow wants the release of its agent imprisoned in Germany. Most of the interview, released Thursday, focused on Ukraine, where the war is nearing the two-year mark. Putin repeated his claim that his invasion of Ukraine, which Kyiv and its allies described as an unprovoked act of aggression, was necessary to protect Russian speakers in Ukraine and prevent the country from posing a threat to Russia by joining NATO. Read more: *** Biden and Trump: How the two classified documents investigations came to different endings The special counsel who concluded that criminal charges were not warranted against President Joe Biden over his handling of classified information says there are clear differences from Donald Trump's case. Special counsel Robert Hur found evidence that Biden willfully retained classified information. But Hur concluded in a report released Thursday that it did not meet the standard for criminal charges. Trump, meanwhile, is accused in his criminal case of not only hoarding classified documents, but also trying to hide them from investigators and working to block the government from clawing them back. Trump has denied any wrongdoing in the case. At look at the similarities and differences between the Biden and Trump investigations: *** The Supreme Court seems poised to reject efforts to kick Trump off the ballot over the Capitol riot The Supreme Court seems poised to reject attempts to kick former President Donald Trump off the 2024 ballot, with conservative and liberal justices in apparent agreement in a case that puts them at the heart of a presidential election. A definitive ruling for Trump, the leading Republican candidate for president, would largely end efforts in Colorado, Maine and elsewhere to prevent his name from appearing on the ballot. The justices could act quickly, possibly by Super Tuesday on March 5, when Colorado, Maine and 13 other states will hold primaries. Here's more on the case: *** MORE TOP STORIES *** MORNING LISTEN "Genius: MLK/X" is a National Geographic series exploring the contrasting approaches of civil rights leaders Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X in achieving their common goals. Bruce Miller talks with Aaron Pierre, who portrays Malcolm X, and Kelvin Harrison Jr., who plays Martin Luther King Jr., as well as producers Gina Prince-Blythewood and Reggie Rock Blythewood. *** TODAY IN HISTORY Today in history: Feb. 9 In 1964, the Beatles made their first live American television appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show, and more events that happened on this day Today in sports history: Feb. 9 In 1992, Magic Johnson, in his return to the court, scores a game-high 25 points to lead the West to victory in the All-Star Game. See more sp *** TODAY'S BIRTHDAYS The current El Nino is now one of the strongest on record, new data shows, catapulting it into rare super El Nino territory, but forecasters believe that La Nina is likely to develop in the coming months. One of the main ways scientists determine whether El Nino is present, and a key indicator of its strength, is through ocean surface temperatures. And from November to January, the temperature of the tropical Pacific Ocean where El Nino originates was 2 degrees Celsius warmer than normal, according to NOAAs Climate Prediction center a threshold that has only been breached six times on record. It means a very strong El Nino is ongoing. But this so-called super El Ninos strength wont last long it has reached its peak strength and is headed on a downward trend, said Michelle LHeureux, a climate scientist with the Climate Prediction Center. Were slightly past peak (strength) at this point, LHeureux told CNN. Forecasters believe the switch could get totally flipped to La Nina cooler than average conditions in the eastern tropical Pacific as soon as summer, but more likely by fall, and issued a La Nina watch on Thursday. El Nino influences weather around the globe, so its strength and demise will continue to have an impact on the weather we experience in the coming months. The stronger an El Nino gets, the more likely it is to influence the global weather over time. But its impact is measured on a seasonal timescale, and not in terms of individual weather events, LHeureux explained. El Ninos have hallmark seasonal signs, particularly on winter in the U.S. A warmer-than-average winter with less snow across the northern tier of the US is one of these signs. This exact scenario is unfolding this winter. Multiple states in the region experienced the warmest-ever December and an overall toasty January with paltry amounts of snow a trend thats continuing into February. El Nino also manifests as a wetter-than-average winter for the southern tier of the US as it often points the storm-steering jet stream south. A serious drought in parts of the South has largely been wiped out this winter by repeated bouts of rain from storm systems. And California was just deluged by back-to-back potent atmospheric river-fueled storms that unloaded record rainfall and hundreds of mudslides. El Nino has been known to enhance atmospheric river events on the West Coast. Its difficult to attribute any single weather system or series of them to El Nino. With that said, it seems probable that there were some links to El Nino [with Californias storms], LHeureux noted. The additional source of heat from warmer water in the eastern Pacific Ocean can be especially impactful to weather patterns in the western portions of both Americas that border the Pacific. The recent disastrous, deadly fires in Chile reflect the El Nino connection. The pattern is linked to decreased precipitation in the northern part of the country which contributed to extensive drought that left areas tinder-dry. El Nino has also left its fingerprints on temperature and precipitation patterns in several other continents, including South America, Africa, Australia and parts of Asia, according to LHeureux. But LHeureux is careful to caution that not every extreme weather event can be attributed directly to El Nino in a warming world. El Nino impacts dont occur in isolation anymore. Theres certainly a climate change component, LHeureux said. La Nina watch issued A La Nina watch is now in effect, meaning conditions are favorable for a La Nina to form within the next six months, according to a forecast released by the CPC Thursday. The center is eyeing this transition to unfold during the summer months, with La Nina conditions increasingly likely to be in effect through the fall. There is a 55% chance of La Nina to develop from June to August and a 77% chance from September to November, according to LHeureux and the forecast. This abrupt pattern flip is not unprecedented. Historically, strong El Ninos are followed by La Nina conditions about 60% of the time, LHeureux said. Depending on when or even if La Nina materializes, this large-scale pattern flip could have significant implications for how the rest of the years weather plays out. La Ninas often produce the opposite weather patterns as El Nino, including a more active Atlantic hurricane season. La Nina conditions were in place for a portion of the most active Atlantic hurricane season on record: 2020. A quicker switch to La Nina could mean more of an impact on the upcoming hurricane season, which begins in June and typically peaks in September particularly if oceans stay exceptionally warm. Last years Atlantic hurricane season was unusually active amid record warm oceans, despite attempts by El Nino to tamp down activity. 20 of the most destructive winter storms since 1980 A look back at the worst winter storms since 1980 #20. Jan. 21-24, 2000 #19. Jan. 3-5, 2018 #18. Jan. 13-16, 1999 #17. Dec. 21-26, 1989 #16. Feb. 2-5, 2023 #15. Jan. 1-4, 1999 #14. Jan. 8-16, 1982 #13. Jan. 17-20, 1994 #12. Jan. 19-22, 1985 #11. Feb. 1-3, 2011 #10. Jan. 5-9, 1998 #9. March 1-3, 2018 #8. Jan. 5-8, 2014 #7. Feb. 14-20, 2015 #6. Dec. 10-13, 1992 #5. Jan. 1-31, 1996 #4. Feb. 8-13, 1994 #3. Dec. 21-26, 2022 #2. March 11-14, 1993 #1. Feb. 10-19, 2021 The man accused of killing a Fort Calhoun priest has pleaded not guilty. Kierre Williams, 43, pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree murder, possession of a firearm while committing a felony, possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person and burglary in a Washington County courtroom in Blair on Thursday. The charges against Williams stem from the Dec. 10 slaying of the Rev. Stephen Gutgsell, a Roman Catholic priest in Fort Calhoun. Williams has been accused by police of breaking into the churchs rectory and fatally stabbing Gutgsell multiple times with a knife. Williams next court appearance is scheduled for March 5. LINCOLN Nebraska lawmakers voted Thursday to ditch the process that led to multiple failed contracts, including one that put a troubled Kansas-based nonprofit in charge of child welfare in the Omaha area. Legislative Bill 461, introduced by Speaker of the Legislature John Arch of La Vista, passed on a vote of 45-0. The measure was one of several bills given final approval on Thursday. Arch led the effort to update state procurement laws, most of which were written in the 1940s, following an investigation into the tumultuous 2019 contract with St. Francis Ministries. The contract has since been terminated. A key provision of LB 461 eliminates language in current law requiring the state to award contracts to the lowest responsible bidder. Arch said earlier that the change could have prevented the Department of Health and Human Services from awarding the child welfare contract to St. Francis. No state official publicly questioned the Kansas agencys bid, even though it was 40% less than the Omaha-based agency that had been managing child welfare cases and even though a number of outside child welfare advocates raised concerns. 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. 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. Arch said a reasonable price would not exceed the market rates and would be sufficient to get the job done properly. The bill also would require state agencies to prove that a contract was needed before signing a contract, rather than after. In addition, it would remove bidding preferences given to Nebraska vendors. Having such preferences makes it harder for Nebraska vendors to get contracts with other states. 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 both cases, the contracts were awarded to the lowest bidder despite potential warning signs. 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. Some other bills that passed Thursday: Czech license plates: LB 140, introduced by Sen. Tom Brandt of Plymouth, will authorize the Nebraska DMV to offer license plates celebrating Czech heritage. The final vote was 45-0. Genetic privacy: LB 308, introduced by Sen. Eliot Bostar of Lincoln, will require genetic testing companies to obtain consent from consumers before collecting, using or disclosing their genetic data, like blood, saliva or tissue samples. The final vote was 43-0. A tense exchange over race, crime and disparities in the criminal judicial system capped off a hearing Thursday on Nebraskas proposed stand-your-ground law being considered by the Legislatures Judiciary Committee. The proposal from Sen. Brian Hardin of Gering would give Nebraskans broad license to use force including potentially deadly force to defend themselves when they believe they are facing death, serious injury, kidnapping or sexual assault. The measure, Legislative Bill 1269, would remove the provision in current state law that renders deadly force unjustified when someone using such force can flee or hand over property with complete safety to avoid doing so. If made law, Hardins proposal also would extend the so-called castle doctrine the right to use deadly force against an assailant in your home or workplace to personal vehicles and public places in general, while providing both criminal and civil protections when someone uses force in self-defense. Complete safety is a very subjective phrase, Hardin told the committee Thursday, casting his attempt to change state law as one meant to remove the need for that interpretation from statute. What would be complete safety to me would be very different for anyone else. If I stub my toe during the retreat, is that considered to be in complete safety? ... Whats considered to be complete safety for juror No. 1 could be far different than the definition for juror 12. And you could have 10 other definitions between those two. Three different testifiers opposing Hardins bill pointed to the February 2012 shooting death of 17-year-old Trayvon Martin at the hands of a neighborhood watchman who had followed Martin from a convenience store in Florida before fatally shooting him. In his closing comments to the committee Thursday, Hardin invoked the shooting of Martin, too, saying the evidence had demonstrated that he was, in fact, the aggressor and he attacked first, and so self-defense applied. Hardins comment set off a nine-minute exchange between him and Sen. Terrell McKinney of Omaha, one of two Black senators in Nebraskas 49-member Legislature, who skewered Hardin over the remark and the unintended consequences his proposal could have on Nebraskans of color if made law. You have to acknowledge the difference in how the law is applied and how people are perceived based on your race, McKinney said. You mentioned a young man who, three days ago, would have turned 29 who was not the aggressor, who left his home to go get some snacks, who was followed by a vigilante. McKinney noted that Martins shooter, George Zimmerman, had been advised by a police dispatcher to stop following the teen before the then-28-year-old ended the call with police before shooting Martin. Zimmerman, who was charged with second-degree murder, was acquitted by a jury after claiming self-defense. Florida is among 38 states considered stand-your-ground states, though not all of them have passed laws expressly indicating such, instead establishing protections through case law. Im trying to keep my words cool, McKinney said. But I think you also have to think about race. And thats where Ill leave it. Like, you can say, Yeah, I live in a rural area so we need this. But ... this is the state of Nebraska. We cant have different laws for different parts of the state. You have to understand that there is a racial component to how laws are applied and how people are perceived, McKinney added. And I would also say when you mention Trayvon Martin, I think you should really do your research on that story. He was not the aggressor. Hardin, a western Nebraska senator, had previously noted that a majority of Nebraskans who wrote in opposition to his proposal live in Lincoln or Omaha, where seconds and seconds can go by before law enforcement might come to your rescue while it might be hours and hours during a snowstorm in Gering, he said. In response to McKinney, Hardin said he had only invoked Martins name because it was invoked against the bill and told McKinney that the two lawmakers would have to agree to disagree on the facts regarding that case. Whats more is I think the intent of this bill is to remove that subjectivity, Hardin said, adding: It makes it more objective to say lets start, on a philosophical ground, by saying: You have a legal right to be there. You have a legal right to defend yourself. I think what youre missing youre missing the racial component, McKinney said. You would like to say that I am missing the racial component, Hardin said. I would submit that I am not missing the racial component. Im saying this actually helps that racial component that youre saying needs to be more central. The two went back and forth for another four minutes, trading comments over Hardins use of the phrase Black-on-Black crime and McKinneys response noting that most perpetrators of mass shootings are White. Their exchange came at the tail end of the hearing that saw unlikely allies join in opposition to Hardins proposal, which faced criticism from the Nebraska County Attorneys Association and the ACLU of Nebraska. The ACLUs policy fellow, Jason Witmer, called the bill a shoot-first law and said it would lead to more race-based injustice and inequity. The lead prosecutors from the states two largest counties Don Kleine of Douglas County and Pat Condon of Lancaster County both testified in opposition to the proposal, which Condon said would create a procedural quagmire for prosecutors. I think that under the difficulties that are proposed by this law it is unworkable the way this law is written, Condon said. Hardin, in his closing remarks, said prosecutors oppose the bill because theyre the ones who determine the subjective standard of the duty to retreat. What this is really about is not dragging an innocent through the fire on the way to an acquittal, the lawmaker said. The pandemic-inspired political action committee Nebraskans Against Government Overreach offered testimony in support of Hardins proposal, along with Women for Gun Rights, a nationwide organization, and numerous state gun owners and other self-defense advocates. Scott Thomas, who said hes been a father in Nebraska for 12 years, thanked Hardin for bringing the bill that he said would bring clarity to state law and help avoid disparities brought by subjectivity. This body is meant to implement laws, to create laws, that bureaucratic systems can implement without any subjective interpretation, he said. And thats how you provide for equality on the law. Its contingent upon that, actually. LINCOLN Days after Nebraska tourism officials announced they were getting rid of a controversial state slogan, lawmakers advanced a bill that would change the structure of the state tourism board. Legislative Bill 624 advanced Thursday on a 36-0 vote, the first of three rounds of debate. It would give the Department of Economic Development director a seat on the Nebraska Tourism Commission. The bill, introduced by State Sen. Mike McDonnell of Omaha, would shift the commission from its current 11 members to 13 members, including the DED director, a gubernatorial appointee and a representative of a state chamber of commerce. McDonnell said he offered the bill because he was displeased with the tourism slogan the commission selected five years ago: Nebraska. Honestly, its not for everyone. Earlier this week, commission executive director John Ricks told lawmakers that the slogan was going to be dropped. While the slogan is going to change, McDonnell said its important to improve communication between two agencies that handle similar issues. No one voted against LB 624 Thursday, but Sen. Justin Wayne of Omaha said he planned to filibuster the bill during its second round of debate. He also said he would introduce multiple amendments to address aspects of the bill he disagreed with, and said the tourism commission needs to represent more regions and perspectives in Nebraska. Theres no diversity of thought, Wayne said of the current commission. Nebraska health department leader pressed on posts about race, abortion, homosexuality The head of Nebraska's Department of Health and Human Services faced questions Wednesday about controversial Twitter posts and his failure to disclose a previous job. Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of February 2024 Layla Schlack is an award-winning writer and editor. As a food reporter with Hearst Connecticut Media Group, she covers restaurant openings and closings, Connecticuts history and agriculture. Wine is a big area of interest in her reporting, as are trends in restaurants and whos driving them. Previously, she's worked as an editor with Whetstone Media, Wine Enthusiast, Fine Cooking and more. Her byline has appeared in The Washington Post, San Francisco Chronicle, Food & Wine, Food 52 and Epicurious, among others, and she holds an MFA in Creative & Professional Writing from Western Connecticut State University. She lives in Norwalk with her husband, dog, cat and amaro collection. LINCOLN A last-ditch effort to get federal food benefits to Nebraska children stalled Thursday, with supporters complaining that the delay in voting on the proposal was really an attempt to kill it. I dont think we should be delaying this a second longer, said Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh of Omaha. The Legislatures Health and Human Services Committee was considering Legislative Bill 952, which would require Nebraska to participate in the Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer Program (EBT). Gov. Jim Pillen has turned down the program, which would have provided an estimated $18 million in federal food aid in Nebraska during school vacation months to low-income families with children who qualify for free or reduced-price meals. State Sen. Jen Day of Omaha, who introduced LB 952, has pushed colleagues to move quickly on the bill. Although the deadline for states to claim their participation in the program has passed, supporters of the bill say theres still a chance for Nebraska to participate this summer if the state changes its position. On Thursday, the committees chairman, Sen. Ben Hansen of Blair, proposed what he framed as a compromise. While Hansen opposes LB 952, he proposed amending it into one of his bills, LB 1381, which would make mandatory a voluntary career training program for participants of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), otherwise known as food stamps. Merging the bills, Hansen said, would produce a greater show of bipartisan support for the summer food program and reduce the chances of a Pillen veto. But since the Hansen bill doesnt have its public hearing until next week, the committee will have to wait at least until next Wednesday before it can vote on sending the merged measure to the floor. Day argued against a delay, saying her bill already has significant bipartisan support that would lead to its passage. Sen. Raymond Aguilar of Grand Island, a Republican, made LB 952 his priority for the session, while Day is a Democrat. The bill also has 17 other co-sponsors, including both Republicans and Democrats. During LB 952s public hearing last week, 17 people testified in support of the bill, with an additional 153 people submitting written comments in support of it. No one testified or submitted comments in opposition. Cavanaugh said that merging with LB 1381 could be a poison pill that would jeopardize the summer food program measure. I dont want to tether the health, well-being of children to anything, Cavanaugh said, who pushed for a Thursday vote on LB 952. Committee members Sen. Beau Ballard of Lincoln and Merv Riepe of Ralston, who previously said they supported LB 952, were hesitant to vote yes on the bill with Hansens option on the table. Ballard pointed out that the bill is less time sensitive because it includes a fiscal note, which means the legislation cant officially pass until the Legislature finalizes the state budget in March. Cavanaugh and Day said it was still important to move the bill to the floor as soon as possible to ensure it is scheduled for debate. Riepe said he liked Hansens bill to require career training and questioned whether the parents of all the children who would benefit from the EBT program currently have jobs. He also pushed back on Cavanaugh and Day for putting pressure on the committee to vote. I dont like a gun to my head to vote one way or another, Riepe said. Cavanaugh accused Hansen of abusing his power as chair to slow-walk the bill, and Day said she felt like Hansen was quietly trying to kill LB 952 through his proposal. By the end of the exchange, Cavanaugh was in tears, and both she and Day left the meeting room before the committee officially adjourned. Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of February 2024 It was a lovely weekend in Marrakech, thanks to the African Cristal team, who organised an insightful Media & Advertising festival (MAD). Themed Positive Branding, the festival had hundreds in attendance, all seeking to give and gain knowledge on the medias role in brand perception. We at Konbini were very proud to be one of the official media sponsors of the festival, and we got to sit in on some amazing keynote speeches. From Nigeria, we had Hafsat Abiola-Costello, president of Women In Africa, who gave a gem-filled speech about brands tendencies and new behaviours. She said: The way the world is interacting with Africa is dangerous, and white people dont realise how complicit they are in the backward motion. Its almost as though theyre telling us to be ourselves, but also only when its acceptable to them. Africa is not that dense, each part has its own unique identity and we cant all be placed in the same category anymore. She also went on to explain that with the current birthrate, Africa is set to become the second most populated continent, teeming with a lot of resources and talent. So, she calls for the western world to change the way they interact with Africa, in the hopes of fostering a mutually beneficial relationship. From Senegal, we had Omar Cisse, C.E.O of fin-tech company, InTouch, who spoke about how to create a positive brand DNA, using his company as an example. He also spoke about his plans to branch out into other African countries, and how his brands positive DNA plays a key role in achieving that. Its very important for people in positions such as Hafsats and Omars to send these messages, so as to showcase our talents to the world. In addition, the festival presented the opportunity to network with other professionals in media and advertising from all around the world. This is exactly how to ensure authentic partnerships, and were very glad to have been a part of it. As police rescues 27 kidnapped victims In continuation of the efforts of the Nigeria Police Force to speedily bring to an end the current internal security challenges being experienced in some parts of the Country, the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, today, 9th May, 2019 rolled out new Counter-Kidnapping operational strategies. The new strategies, which are purposeful and intelligence-driven are targeted at identifying, locating and dismantling kidnapping gangs across the nation and bringing the kidnappers and their collaborators to justice. In a press statement signed by the force spokesman, DCP Frank Mba and made available to National Daily, the new strategy is designed to complement and strengthen the Operation Puff Adder currently going on in several States of the Federation. He said the operation will involve the deployment of undercover operatives, decoy operations and high-level tactical missions with active participation of operatives drawn from the conventional Police Units, the Force Intelligence Unit, the Special Anti-Robbery Squads (SARS), the Special Anti-kidnapping Squads and the Police Tactical Units comprising the Police Mobile Force (PMF), the Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU) and the Special Forces. Meanwhile, Police operatives from Operation Puff Adder have rescued unhurt 27 kidnap victims including 5 Chinese nationals. According to DCP Mba, the Chinese citizens who were earlier kidnapped on 15th April, 2019 in Bobi, Niger State were safely and successfully rescued on 5th of May, 2019 from a forest in Birnin Gwari, Kaduna State, following painstaking investigative efforts, including both air and ground surveillance. Two (2) of the kidnappers died from injuries sustained during exchange of gun fire with the Police in the course of the rescue mission. Twenty-two (22) other kidnap victims were rescued in Zamfara State and other parts of the country. In addition, between January 2019 and the 1st week of May, 2019, a total of 270 suspected kidnappers were arrested, 275 suspected armed robbers were arrested and 105 assorted weapons plus a large cache of ammunition recovered. The IGP, while commending the general public for their understanding and supports so far, reassures the Nation that the end to violent crimes and other sundry criminal activities is in sight. He promises that the Force under his leadership will continue to work with other relevant stakeholders in the task of making Nigeria safer and better. On Thursday, Nigerian pensioners expressed dissatisfaction over their exclusion from the membership of the recently formed National Minimum Wage Tripartite Committee. The Pensioners under the aegis of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners, NUP, threatened to protest n*ked to show Nigerians how they have gone mad from hunger. They noted that no fewer than 1,500 of their members have passed on in recent times as a result of the hardship and high cost of living in the country. Addressing journalists in Abuja, on Thursday, the President of NUP, Godwin Abumisi, in a prepared text he read said the Senior Citizens would embark on protest in Abuja if the Federal Government failed to include Pensioners in the Minimum Wage Tripartite Committee. In Nigeria, the government doesnt think about the poor people, they only think about themselves, otherwise how can a pensioner in Enugu receive as low as four hundred and fifty naira?. They also lamented that their members in some states especially in Enugu State collect as low as N450 monthly as pension. Fielding questions on whether the union has suffered any casualty as a result of the hardship in the country, he said, Let me say this, we have casualties every day. The casualties arising from the maltreatment of pensioners in Nigeria, we have now gone to 1,500. Just about last week, we travelled to Enugu to bury one of the staff. We know that he perished out of hunger. Its in our power to distribute food to pensioners in Nigeria, we dont have the resources. He said, I want to say it clearly and I want you to write it, I am going to lead Nigerian pensioners n*ked. I mean n*ked. When we are going to protest, we are going to go n*ked on the streets. Write down this so that the world will see it, Nigerian pensioners are going to demonstrate n*ked. If they like, let them arrest us on why we go n*ked, are you mad? And we will say, we are mad. We have reached a situation where we can now say, we are mad. He further said, For records, the NUP is the only legally recognized body and voice of the entire civil and para-military pensioners in Nigeria. When the news of constituting the long-awaited Tripartite National Minimum Wage Review Committee was announced by the Federal Government, it was applauded by the NUP, with the high hope that they would be represented in such a high-powered committee to offer their voice to the negotiation as well as make a case for their members, bearing in mind that pensioners are workers in retirement who go to the same market for their daily needs. Moreso, we feel that the pensioners union should be carried along during negotiations on the matters that bother their members. Unfortunately and regrettably too, our hope of being represented in the Committee was dashed as the name of NUP was visibly omitted from the membership list. Mrs. Funmi Akinade, a 62-year-old woman has given birth to a baby boy. NAN reported that the woman gave birth at a private hospital in Lagos after 31 years in marriage without a child. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the baby was conceived through In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) and delivered on Tuesday via caesarian section at 37 weeks. The baby was born at the StrongTower Hospital and Advanced Fertility Centre, a Lagos-based private medical facility. Akinade told NAN on Thursday in Lagos that she married in 1992 but never had a child. Akinade said that she went through a series of gynecological treatments, including three previous IVF procedures that failed. She said that the fourth IVF became successful and her husband had been supportive, adding that both of them remained optimistic that God would give them a child. This is my fourth IVF attempt, but the others were not in this hospital. When someone is looking for fruit of the womb, the person will be moving from one hospital or gynecologist to another, undergoing series of gynecological investigations and treatments, she said. Akinade said that all through the years she was looking for a child, she had strong faith in God. Even when I felt it was aready too late to be possible, God in His infinite mercy made it possible for me in my lifetime. I return all glory to Him. Two major factors that kept motivating me all along are my husbands support and one particular book that I usually read, Akinade said. Akinade advised couples desiring children not to give up but trust in God while seeking the right medical attention. She identified finance as a major challenge encountered while looking for fruit of the womb, saying that fertility treatments were expensive. She called on governments to subsidise the cost of IVF and other fertility procedures for the sake of poor couples. Fertility treatment is quite expensive whether IVF or whatever. A lot of couples out there are childless and do not have the financial capacity to go for them, she said. Dr Ayodele Ademola, a Consultant Gynecologist, who delivered the baby, said that a woman above 62 years could still conceive through IVF or other innovative methods of assisted pregnancy. Ademola, also the Medical Director of the hospital, said that many couples without children could still have, with the right medical care. According to him, the major challenges most people have with IVF are the financial involvement and the fear that it can fail. Even if the IVF fails, there are other innovative methods of assisted pregnancy to offer, including surrogacy thats bringing another person to carry the pregnancy in situations where the woman is unable to carry it. Aside the surrogacy approach, there are other advanced methods. Our motive is to achieve that desired result and ensure that the woman is happy, satisfied and gets value for the money spent. Regarding the controversy about whether old women can conceive, there are advanced innovative methods through which they can be helped to have babies, Ademola said. According to Ademola, StrongTower Hospital started carrying out IVF procedure since 2014 and has recorded successful stories. Few days back, I led a small delegation of three officials from our organisation to pay a courtesy visit on the Chairman, Chief executive officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwa in his office, and he hinted us about the creation of a department that would work out implementable strategies for taking drug traffickers away from their evil ways by creating alternative career pathways for them that is clean, legitimate and profitable. That innovative idea sounded very attractive and humane because it is a fundamental departure from the impression that offenders deserve no transformational and correctional reforms but should be punished severely for their crimes. The new idea is not an alternative to law enforcement nor is it like the non-custodial sentencing mechanisms that applies in some jurisdictions in which small time offenders are sentenced to hours or days of community services than serve time in a custodial institution. Nevertheless, we at the HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (HURIWA) felt that it is an idea whose time has come. A philosopher once stated that one thing stronger than all the armies in the World is an idea whose time has come. Nigeria, like many nations, grapples with the pernicious challenge of drug trafficking, a menace that not only undermines public health but also corrodes the fabric of society. Conventional methods of law enforcement, centered on arrests and incarceration, have proven insufficient in addressing the underlying causes of this illicit trade. Recognizing the need for a paradigm shift, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has taken a transformative step by establishing a specialized department tasked with researching alternative career pathways for individuals enmeshed in drug trafficking. The genesis of NDLEAs initiative lies in a profound understanding of the intricate web of socioeconomic factors that underpin drug trafficking. It acknowledges that the lure of illicit trade often emanates from systemic issues such as poverty, lack of education, and a dearth of viable economic opportunities. Conventional punitive measures, while necessary, fail to address these root causes, perpetuating a cycle of crime and destitution. By embracing alternative career pathways, NDLEA seeks to break this cycle, offering individuals a lifeline out of the abyss of criminality and into the realm of lawful, productive endeavors. This approach not only aligns with global best practices but also embodies a compassionate, holistic approach to rehabilitation and reintegration. One of the strengths of this initiative lies in its recognition of the need for comprehensive rehabilitation efforts. Instead of merely punishing offenders, NDLEAs approach seeks to provide them with viable alternatives to a life of crime. By offering support for transitioning into legitimate businesses, such as agriculture or other industries, the agency aims to empower former drug traffickers to reintegrate into society as productive members. The creation of a department within the NDLEA dedicated to researching alternative careers for drug traffickers is a commendable step forward in the fight against drug trafficking. By recognizing the complex socioeconomic factors that drive individuals into the illicit drug trade, NDLEA acknowledges that traditional enforcement measures alone are insufficient to address the problem. Offering rehabilitation and legitimate employment opportunities demonstrates a commitment to addressing the root causes of drug trafficking and reintegrating individuals into society as productive members. Moreover, the focus on providing resources and support for individuals to transition into legitimate businesses aligns with broader efforts to promote economic development and reduce reliance on illicit activities. By leveraging existing skills, such as farming, and providing access to training and financial assistance, NDLEA can empower former drug traffickers to pursue sustainable livelihoods that contribute positively to their communities. Furthermore, by appointing a dedicated director to oversee this department, NDLEA is signaling its seriousness in implementing this initiative effectively. This ensures that resources and expertise are directed toward developing and implementing rehabilitation programs tailored to the specific needs of individuals involved in drug trafficking. The potential benefits of NDLEAs initiative extend far beyond the realm of law enforcement. At its core, this pioneering endeavor is about transforming lives, communities, and ultimately, society as a whole. By providing individuals with access to rehabilitation services, vocational training, and legitimate employment opportunities, NDLEA aims to facilitate a profound metamorphosisa transition from the shadowy underworld of drug trafficking to the sunlight of lawful, dignified livelihoods. This, in turn, holds the promise of reduced crime rates, enhanced community cohesion, and improved public health outcomes. Moreover, by empowering individuals to become agents of positive change within their communities, NDLEAs initiative has the potential to catalyze broader socioeconomic development, paving the way for a brighter, more prosperous future for all Nigerians. Despite its noble aspirations, NDLEAs initiative confronts a myriad of formidable challenges. Chief among these is the allure of the illicit drug trade, which often promises quick riches and instant gratificationa stark contrast to the slow, uncertain path of legitimate employment. Convincing individuals entrenched in drug trafficking to embrace alternative career pathways requires not only compelling incentives but also a fundamental shift in mindset; a journey from the allure of immediate gain to the promise of long-term fulfillment and prosperity. Individuals involved in drug trafficking may be hesitant to transition to alternative careers if they perceive them as less profitable or desirable. This raises questions about the feasibility of convincing individuals to abandon lucrative illicit activities in favor of legitimate employment, particularly when faced with economic uncertainty. Another challenge lies in addressing the underlying factors that drive individuals into the illicit drug trade in the first place. Poverty, lack of education, and limited economic opportunities are often cited as key drivers of drug trafficking. While providing alternative careers is a step in the right direction, comprehensive strategies that address these root causes are essential for long-term success. This may involve broader efforts to promote education, job creation, and social welfare programs in communities affected by drug trafficking. Additionally, a critical aspect to consider is the potential for relapse among rehabilitated offenders. Breaking free from the cycle of addiction and criminality is a complex and ongoing process that requires ongoing support and monitoring. Without adequate follow-up measures, individuals may be at risk of reverting to their former ways, especially if they face challenges or setbacks in their new endeavors. Moreover, the success of NDLEAs initiative hinges on the availability of resources, infrastructure, and support systems to facilitate the transition process effectively. Adequate funding, robust vocational training programs, and comprehensive rehabilitation services are essential prerequisites for empowering individuals to embark on a new trajectory. Also, addressing the stigma associated with former drug traffickers is paramount to ensuring their successful reintegration into society, as social ostracization can serve as a formidable barrier to rehabilitation and long-term sustainability. Besides, the success of NDLEAs rehabilitation efforts hinges on collaboration with other government agencies, as well as non-governmental organizations and the private sector. Sustainable reintegration requires access to education, vocational training, and employment opportunities, which may necessitate partnerships beyond the scope of NDLEAs mandate. In charting a course towards alternative career pathways for drug traffickers, NDLEA has embarked on a bold and visionary journeyone that holds the potential to reshape the landscape of drug enforcement in Nigeria. By embracing rehabilitation, reintegration, and empowerment, NDLEA seeks to not only disrupt the cycle of crime and destitution but also nurture a culture of hope, resilience, and renewal. However, the road ahead is fraught with challenges, and success will require unwavering commitment, resolute determination, and collaborative effort. As NDLEA pioneers this transformative approach, it beckons us all to envision a future where the shackles of drug trafficking are replaced by the bonds of opportunity, dignity, and prosperity. A UNODCs press statement dated 5 th of November 2023, gave us an idea of one nation in which the cultivation of opium poppy was drastically reduced to make way for lawful career pathways. The statement indicated that opium poppy cultivation in Afghanistan plunged by an estimated 95 per cent following a drug ban imposed by the de facto authorities in April 2022, according to a new research brief from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). UN officials noted that the near-total contraction of the opiate economy is expected to have far-reaching consequences and highlighted the urgent need for enhanced assistance for rural communities, accompanied by alternative development support to build an opium-free future for the people of Afghanistan. Opium cultivation fell across all parts of the country, from 233,000 hectares to just 10,800 hectares in 2023. The decrease has led to a corresponding 95 per cent drop in the supply of opium, from 6,200 tons in 2022 to just 333 tons in 2023. The sharp reduction has had immediate humanitarian consequences for many vulnerable rural communities who relied on income from cultivating opium. Farmers income from selling the 2023 opium harvest to traders fell by more than 92 per cent from an estimated US$1,360 million for the 2022 harvest to US$110 million in 2023. This presents a real opportunity to build towards long-term results against the illicit opium market and the damage it causes both locally and globally, said Ghada Waly, Executive Director of UNODC. At the same time, there are important consequences and risks that need to be addressed for an outcome that is ultimately positive and sustainable, especially for the people of Afghanistan. Today, Afghanistans people need urgent humanitarian assistance to meet their most immediate needs, to absorb the shock of lost income and to save lives, Ms. Waly added. And over the coming months, Afghanistan is in dire need of strong investment in sustainable livelihoods, to provide Afghan farmers with opportunities away from opium. Nearly eighty percent of the population depends on agriculture, and Afghanistan already faces acute water scarcity challenges, said Roza Otunbayeva, the UN Secretary-Generals Special Representative for Afghanistan and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan. Sustainable alternative development efforts must be oriented towards drought-resistant agricultural activities and the effective protection and use of resources. Until 2023, the value of Afghanistans opiate exports alone has frequently exceeded the value of the countrys legally exported goods and services. The strong contraction of the opiate economy in 2023, which shrank by 90 per cent overall, is expected to affect Afghanistans economy on a larger scale. Many farmers turned to cultivating wheat instead, with an overall increase of 160,000 hectares in cereal cultivation across the Farah, Hilmand, Kandahar, and Nangahar provinces. The UNODC stated further that although wheat cultivation may alleviate food insecurity to some extent, the crop generates much less income than opium farmers in the four provinces lost around US$ 1 billion in potential income in 2023 by switching to wheat. Beyond Afghanistan, less heroin may lead to reduced trafficking and use or it could spur the emergence of harmful alternatives, such as fentanyl and other synthetic opioids. Data on seizures indicate that traders are selling off their opium inventories from past record harvests to weather the shortfall in 2023, while heroin processing has decreased. Trafficking in other drugs, namely methamphetamine, has surged in the region. Though there are high levels of opiate use within Afghanistan, evidence-based treatment options remain limited. The survey noted the need for evidence-based treatment to be integrated in public health measures and assistance, including to prevent people with opiate use disorders turning to potentially even more harmful substances. The above lessons scientifically highlighted in the aforementioned press release from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime should serve as a guide to the NDLEA so that the objective for which this innovative idea is created, would be met so those drug barons engaging in large-scale business of cultivating weeds can be easily integrated into a new career pathway. *Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, National Coordinator of the HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA(HURIWA) was a former NATIONAL COMMISSIONER OF THE NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA. The passing of Chief Osondu Nwoye, one of the most affluent individuals in Amanuke, Awka North local government area of Anambra state, has caused profound grief among many. Regarded as a billionaire, he resided in Cote dIvoire, where the Africa Cup of Nations AFCON 2023 was being held. The 53-year-old philanthropist from Umueze, Amanuke, was reportedly watching the Nigeria vs. South Africa match with his wife, Ngozi, and friends in Buake when the tragedy occurred. Chief Chikodi Anarah, a close friend and influential figure in the Amanuke community, expressed the difficulty of overcoming the shock. Anarah, also the Anambra state commissioner for Home Affairs, likened the tragedy to a thunderbolt striking Amanuke and the entire state. He added that he was not aware of any underlying health issues Nwoye may have had before his death. Anarah said: Sincerely, we dont really know what to do again. The entire community is in pain and confused. This is a young man who has made so many youths in this community and beyond. He has given scholarships to uncountable persons in the area. He has not been in politics and he was not interested in it. He does not belong to any camp. A young man who minds his business as a typical business person. Nwoyes philanthropy is unparalleled in this area. The way he does to the youths is the same way he does to the aged, widows and the less privileged. This is a big blow to us in the Amanuke community and the entire Igbo race. Another person who was all tears when the news broke was Chibuzor Nwafor, (aka-Onyeoma), a popular local musician in the area. His tears could not be subdued as he continued saying on the phone that a heavy rain has fallen in Amanuke. The Nation further gathered that his incontrollable pain was as a result of being one of the beneficiaries of late Nwoyes philanthropy. It was further gathered that Onyeoma had equally travelled to Cote dIvoire some time ago with his band on the invitation to perform for the billionaire businessman and his friends. Onyema said: I really dont have the strength to talk about him. This heavy rain is a bad one for our people. Please, give me some time to recover myself but he never did. Ikechukwu Obdiegwu, from the same community as the late billionaire, simply, described him as a good man who helped people. A former deputy chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) and ward chairman of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Amanuke, told The Nation that, he would have been alive if he had not watched the football match. The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has successfully obtained the conviction and sentenced Abdulazeez Isah to three years in prison for falsely presenting himself as a staff member of the agency. Abraham Adama and Uzoma Isaac Iwu were also jailed for fraud by Justices Darius Khobo and A. Isiaka of the Kaduna State High Court, sitting in Kaduna. While Justice Isiaka jailed Isah after pleading guilty to a one-count charge bordering on impersonation, Justice Khobo handed Adama two years imprisonment for cheating by impersonating American movie star, Sylvester Stallone on social media and three years to Iwu for cybercrimes. The charge against Isa reads: That you Abdulazeez Isah sometime in November 2023 in Kaduna within the jurisdiction of this honourable court, committed an offence of impersonation to wit: falsely presenting yourself as a staff of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to the general public, which pretence you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 142(1) of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law, 2017. The charge against Adama reads: That you Abraham Adama (a.k.a Sylvester Stallone) (m), sometime in 2023 at Kaduna within the jurisdiction of this honourable court, committed an offence to wit: cheating by impersonation when you falsely presented yourself as Sylvester Stallone (an American actor) on several online social media applications to several unsuspecting victims and in that assumed character cheated one Amelia James of the total sum of $200.00 (Two Hundred USD) and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 308 of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law of 2017 and punishable under Section 309 of the same Law. The charge against Iwu reads: that you ISAAC UZOMA IWU (a.k.a [email protected]) on or about the 18th of January, 2024 at NITEL Quarters of Sabo Axis, Kaduna State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court falsely presented yourself as Man Paul Markus and in that assumed character defrauded members of the public by luring them into investing into Crypto Currency via your email address [email protected] and you thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 142(1) of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law, 2017. The three defendants pleaded guilty to their charges when they were read to them. Based on their pleas, EFCC lawyers, M.U Gadaka and K.S Ogunlade prayed the court to convict and sentence them accordingly. Justice Isiaka convicted and sentenced Isah to three years imprisonment or a fine of N150,000.00 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) while Justice Khobo convicted and sentenced Adama to two years prison term with a fine option of N150,000.00 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) and Iwu to three years imprisonment or a fine of N150,000.00 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira). Isah bagged his imprisonment by falsely parading himself to unsuspecting members of the public as a member of staff of the EFCC. Upon arrest, he admitted financing the production of fake T-shirts, identity cards and caps of the Commission found in his possession. Adama impersonated Sylvester Stallone (an American actor) while Iwu got his imprisonment by indulging in internet crimes. A former Minister has lost his only son. The bereaved is Abdulrahman Hassan Gimba, the former Minister for Youths and Sports. He just lost his son, Fraid Hassan Gimba. The former Ministers son died while battling illness he was in his 20s according to information available. You have done your best to give him a good life despite his health challenges. Allah has chosen to end Farids suffering on earth here, be comforted Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Bago condoled the former Minister in a condolence message while urging him to be strong. The Governor urged the parents of the deceased to take solace in Allah who is the ultimate determiner and happenings in ones life.. The Niger Governor is an in-law to former Minister Hassan Gimba. The Governors wife, Hajiya Fatima Mohammed Bago is the younger sister to Jummai Amina Gimba, the ex-ministers wife and mother of the deceased. Ivory Coast forward Sebastian Haller has expressed determination to avenge their previous loss to Nigeria in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations group stage during the upcoming AFCON final. The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to face the Elephants of Ivory Coast in the final of the ongoing African Cup of Nations in Abidjan on Sunday. In their earlier encounter, William Troost-Ekongs second-half penalty secured a 1-0 victory for Nigeria over Ivory Coast in the group-stage match. Looking ahead to Sundays showdown, Haller emphasized the Elephants desire for revenge and their ambition to claim the title this time around, as reported by BeIn SPORTS. We are playing the (AFCON final) final against Nigeria. It is a great nation. It is heavy. They beat us in the group stage. But we are already motivated to go and lift the trophy on Sunday in this stadium in front of the Ivorian people. We have revenge to take on Nigeria, Haller told BeIn SPORTS. The two-time champions are notably the first host country to reach the AFCON final since Egypt in 2006, marking a remarkable turnaround for a team that was on the verge of elimination in the group stage. New Delhi, Feb 09 (UNI) One Nation One Election committee, under the Chairmanship of former President Ram Nath Kovind, held a meeting with RPI President Ramdas Athawale and AAP leaders regarding simultaneous elections in the country here on Friday. During the meeting minister and RPI President Ramdas Athawale and leaders of AAP presented their parties' views on 'One Nation One Election' before the high level committee. The committee members Dr N. K. Singh and Sanjay Kothari were also present in the meeting and held personal interactions with the Members of both political parties. AAP leader Jasmine Shah in his social media post X, said, "AAP vehemently opposes the idea of simultaneous polls as it dilutes voter accountability." He further added, " The tenets of the constitution and democracy cannot be sacrificed for narrow financial gains or administrative convenience." "We also pointed out the flawed nature of the current consultation which is taking place on a vague idea without any policy draft on the table," he added. Earlier, the Committee held personal interactions with D. Raja, General Secretary, of the Communist Party of India, and three political parties which includes, Trinamool Congress, Samajwadi Party and Communist Party of India (Marxist) on holding simultaneous elections in the country. On September 22, the government constituted a committee headed by former President Ram Nath Kovind to explore the possibility of 'One Nation, One Election', holding simultaneous Lok Sabha and state Assembly elections. According to the reports, the Centre is also planning to introduce the One Nation, One Election Bill in Parliament. The One Nation One Election is not a new concept for the country. India had simultaneously held Lok Sabha and Assembly elections -- in 1951-52, 1957, 1962 and 1967. UNI JA KK Nigerian director and filmaker, Biodun Stephen has sent a message to hospitals and doctors in the country. She begged them to be considerate and treat their patients better. Her SOS call came following poor reviews by Nigerians concerning government and private hospitals, doctors and nurses. In her words: Dear doctors, I know this country does not give you the credit you deserve, but the patients need your warmth in consulting with them. You do not need to be friendly, though. I believe its a plus. But aloofness and coldness does not come with the medical practice. Do better. Be kinder. She added that most patients do not like coming to hospitals in Nigeria, the same way hospitals dont like seeing patients. She said: Dear hospital, the feeling is mutual. I do not like coming to you either, but sometimes life forces us to be in your presence. When I do come to you, tell your people not to treat me like a livestock. You are not doing me a favor. It is a paid service. Thank you. President Bola Tinubu has been sent a message by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). CAN complained about the prevailing economic hardship and pain Nigerians are going through at this time. The Christian body asserted that the suffering in the country was becoming unbearable for ordinary Nigerians, adding that the increasing security challenges across the country calls for concern. In a statement on Friday, the Secretary-General of Northern CAN, Elder Sunday Oibe, called on President Bola Tinubu to quickly address the situation before it is too late. CAN also called on Nigerians to support the present administration to overcome the eight years of calamity and retrogressionexperienced under former President Muhammadu Buhari. The statement reads: We call on Nigerians to support the present administration to overcome the eight years of calamity and retrogression. We also call on President Bola Tinubu to settle down and squarely tackle these challenges so that Nigeria will bounce back. We call on Christians to continue to pray fervently for the country. High cost of foodstuffs, transportation, goods and services have made life difficult for many Nigerians. The epileptic power supply has led to the collapse of many small businesses. The continued decline in the value of the naira and the seeming inability of the government to address the situation has completely weakened the purchasing power of ordinary Nigerians. The situation is further compounded by escalating insecurity occasioned by rampant killings and kidnapping for ransom. Government must take urgent steps to address the depressing economic and escalating security situation in the country. Northern CAN also noted the rampaging activities of bandits in Plateau state and other parts of the country in recent times. It also advised that the government to review the security architecture of the country for effective and decisive action. It added: The government must do everything possible to stop the killings not only in Plateau, but across the country. These killings have continued because the perpetrators have never been brought to justice. We have continued to wondered why government has not been able to hold anybody accountable for the mass killings going on in the country. Unless justice is done, by ensuring that the perpetrators and whoever are the sponsors are brought to the book, all the talks about peace may be mere rhetorics. Just when we thought banditry and kidnapping had been contained, it has resurfaced in a more daring manner, especially, in Abuja, the nations capital which was hitherto considered a safe haven being the seat of power with all the security apparatus located there. The brutal killings of traditional rulers in Ekiti state Kwara states and the abduction of school children among others too numerous to mention is an indication that the Nigeria is on the brink. These, notwithstanding, we commend our security agencies for their sacrifices and patriotism in ensuring that these criminal elements are flushed out. We urged them not to relent in their efforts to crush them. We called on governments at all levels to support our security agencies with all that is required to fight these criminals. We also called on Nigerians to co-operate with security personnel and pray for them as they confront these enemies of the nation. The Benue state woman, Mrs Maria Agbo, who was killed by kidnappers alongside her daughter in Abuja, has been buried. She was laid to rest on Thursday, February 8, 2024, in Owukpa, Benue State. Maria had travelled to Abuja to take care of her daughter, Christiana, who had just given birth after ten years of childlessness. Tragedy struck when kidnappers stormed their home near the Mopol Barracks, in the Dei-Dei area of FCT and abducted Maria, her daughter and the newborn baby. The kidnappers demanded N90m ransom from the family as a condition to release the victims. After negotiation, they settled for N10 million. However, days later, the family received the devastating news that Christiana and her mother had been killed, and the newborn baby abandoned in a hospital. Zamfara State Governor, Bello Matawalle has appointed a bread vendor identified as Abdulmalik Saidu Maibiredi, as his Senior Special Assistant on social media matters. In a letter dated September 24, 2019, Governor Matawalle appointed Mr. Maibiredi as his Senior Special Assistant with effect from September 14, 2019. During a phone interview with Daily Nigerian, Mr. Maibiredi disclosed that he has been promoting bread almost all his life, and vowed to continue with his trade despite government appointment. The 24-year-old graduate, however, said that he will only be selling the bread after office hours so as to meet up with his appointment as SSA to Governor Matawalle. I am still very proud of my business, and I never felt denigrated selling bread. I started selling bread since I was in primary school, he said. I use the proceeds of the business to pay PTA dues for myself, pay for common entrance examination, placement examination and SSCE. I bought bicycle for myself when I was in class 4 in primary school. I never bothered to ask my parents for money to buy school uniform. I did my NCE selling bread. I am currently going for my final year in the Federal University Gusau. That is how I became who I am today. Right now as we speak, it is bread in front of me, Mr Maibiridi added. Meanwhile, the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi has urged women to stop begging for political appointments saying they are manipulators who can manipulate men into signing what they wouldnt want to sign. According to him, women should stop peddling gender inequality as the reason they dont get appointments in Nigeria, rather he urged them to focus on building their competence and lifting one another. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo says the country must address the issue of restructuring in order to prevent a serious problem. Obasanjo said this at the first memorial lecture Fredrick Fasehun, founder Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC), in Lagos state, on Saturday. The elder statesman, who added that the country could not afford another war, said he would keep fighting for the country until he dies. I will continue to fight for Nigerias unity until I die. But this fight is not to make my children and my race second class citizens, he said. When I was elected president the agitation was true federalism but now it is restructuring. If we dont address it they may go from restructuring to self-determination and this will be a serious problem. If Boko Haram can get external support, any group that decided to go will get support from within and outside. So we must address the issue now. The language we are using to address ourselves across the region now is uncouth and it must not continue. Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed Nigeria as a country faces several problems but one that has been a scourge is that of Fake News. The Nigerian government through its Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed, over the years maintain a stance to severely punish purveyors of fake news and hate speech. Last October, Mohammed said: purveyors of fake news and hate speech should not expect to sleep easy. However, POLITICS NIGERIA understands that even government officials, including Mr Mohammed, are also guilty of spreading false information also known as fake news. To start with the Minister of Information, Mr Mohammed in 2017 said he has never told a lie before but findings by this newspaper reveal that the claim is incorrect. In this report, we looked at notable public officials and politicians with a past of disseminating false information: 1. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala On Wednesday, 8th April 2020, Nigerias former Minister of Finance, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala posted a fake picture on Twitter to salute Rwandan President, Paul Kagame for sharing food items to low-income households in the country to fight Coronavirus. Meanwhile, a Google reverse image search later revealed that the picture was taken long ago in 2019 and not even in Rwanda. The image was part of photographs taken of a Gambian Islamic leader who shared food items to Muslim Faithful last year. Defending her action, Mrs Okonjo-Iweala said that a friend sent her the picture claiming it was from Rwanda. 2. Femi Fani-Kayode In 2018, Former aviation minister, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode wrote on Twitter that Nigeria was no longer among the top 10 biggest economies in Africa. According to his Twitter post, Ghana followed by Ethiopia and Cote dIvoire had all surpassed Nigeria even South Africa, according to him, was no longer among the top three biggest African economies. Meanwhile, a check proved him wrong. Nigeria, according to Forbes, has a GDP of $405bn with a GDP growth rate of 1.6%. Egypt is in the second spot with $332bn GDP and GDP growth rate of 4.3% while South Africa occupies the third spot with South Africa with a GDP $295bn and GDP growth rate of 0.3%. Going by the ranking, the claim by Fani-Kayode that Nigeria was no longer among the top 10 biggest economies in Africa is FALSE. 3. Lai Mohammed On February 8, 2017, while speaking on President Muhammadu Buharis absence, Mr Mohammed said despite seeking an extended medical vacation, the president was not sick. I can say without any hesitation that Mr President is well, is hale and hearty. No question about that. Meanwhile, Jibrilla Bindow the former governor of Adamawa confirmed the presidents health status as he asked Nigerians to pray for a sick Mr Buhari. Upon his return, the president admitted that he had never experienced such an Illness since he was young. 4. Garba Shehu When Nigeria recorded its first case of Coronavirus, the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Muhammadu Buhari, Garba Shehu, stated that Nigerian newspapers were over-reporting on the Coronavirus rather than malaria that kills 822 people on a daily basis. Unfortunately for Mr Shehu, the World Health Organisation (WHO) data indicates that malaria fatality rates are three times lower than that put forward by the presidential spokesperson. 5. Orji Uzor Kalu Now in prison for embezzlement and fraud while serving as a governor, the former Senate Chief Whip, Orji Uzor Kalu, in July 2019, said President Muhammadu Buhari is the only Head of State without houses in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory. This is false. Mr Buhari himself in a statement used to declare his asset form to the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) disclosed that he has five properties located in Kaduna, Katsina, Kano, Port Harcourt and Abuja. The statement was signed by Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, on September 3, 2015. 6. Chris Ngige The Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, on 24th of April, 2019 said Nigeria has surplus doctors, hence, medical doctors are free to vacate the country. He said this while speaking on Channels TV Sunrise Daily programme. Meanwhile, a recommendation by the World Health Organisation (WHO) negated Mr Ngiges claim. Adedayo Faduyile, the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) President was surprised at the Ministers statement. He explained that Nigeria suffers from an acute shortage of doctors. 7. Adebayo Shittu Nigerias former Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu, once claimed that his service as an elected member of the old Oyo State House of Assembly, in the defunct Second Republic, was equivalent to the compulsory one year National Youth Service Corps scheme. This was at the height of an inquiry into reports that he did not have an authentic NYSC certificate, a compulsory requirement to hold public office in the country. Meanwhile, the spokesperson of the NYSC, Adenike Adeyemi said a political office has nothing to do with compulsory service. She explained that one can only skip the scheme when one graduates after the age of 30. 8. Festus Keyamo In 2018, Festus Keyamo while serving as the spokesman for President Muhammadu Buhari Campaign Organization said Forbes rated Nigeria as having the best economy in Africa. He made the statement in his appearance on Sunrise Daily programme on Channels Television. Truly, Forbes in 2018 released the best economy ranking and Nigeria was not even rated top in Africa. Nigeria was ranked 3rd best in Africa in terms of investor protection. Rwanda and South Africa were rated above Nigeria on the African continent, and Nigeria was ranked as 115th best country to do business in the world in a total of 153 countries that were surveyed. 9. Sabo Nanono The current Minister for Agriculture, Sabo Nanono while addressing Journalists in an event celebrating the international World Food Day last October said there is no hunger in the country but inconveniences. While Mr Nanono did not make reference to any evidence, the Global Hunger Index (GHI) negated his claim. GHI is a tool used to measure, track and raise awareness and understanding about hunger across global, regional and national levels. Recently, it ranked Nigeria 93 out of 117 with a score of 27.9; meaning the country is in serious hunger. 10. Audu Ogbeh In March 2019, the former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Audu Ogbeh, while defending his ministrys budget at the National Assembly, decried Nigerians taste for foreign goods. He said Nigerians use their cell phones to import pizza from London. Meanwhile, Pizza outlets in London all request for a London address for the delivery of any ordered Pizza. A spokesperson for Skyway Aviation Cargo Handling Company says it is against aviation rule to bring or take cooked food into/outside the country; except youre a passenger on a private jet in which case you will still need a certification for it from the quarantine department. In a bid to hold government officials and public officers accountable, POLITICS NIGERIA in the next series will compile another list of other top fake news purveyors. This, we are doing in line with section 22 of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria which mandates the press to hold authority accountable. The Muslim Rights concern group, MURIC has reacted to the abduction of Five pastors of the Redeemed Christian Church of God by unknown gunmen. In a statement sent to us on Saturday signed by its leader, Prof. Ishaq Akintola, the group urges Nigerians to pray for the safe return of the Pastors. We are deeply distressed by this ugly development. We empathize with Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the RCCG. We urge Nigerians to join Pastor Adeboye in prayer for the quick and safe return of the kidnapped pastors.Our appeal for prayers is to all Nigerians regardless of religion or tribe. We are one from Adam and Adam was from ordinary sand. It must be humanity first. Let us unite in prayers. A nation that prays together stays together.In particular, we beseech Nigerian Muslims who are currently on hajj (pilgrimage) to add the safe return of the five pastors to their prayer points. We appeal to those among them who are already in Makkah to perform a special tawaf (circumambulation of the Kaabah) and Say to ask Almighty Allah to intervene in the plight of the pastors. Those who are still in Madinah are urged to offer two rakahs each at the Prophets (SAW) mosque for the same purpose. In addition, we call on all Muslim Asalatu groups throughout Nigeria to dedicate time to special prayers for the five pastors during their Asalatu sessions tomorrow Sunday 4th August, 2019. They should please pray to Allah to stop the spate of criminality in our country.This is not the time for the blame game. Those who concentrate on blaming the government and the security agencies are chasing shadows. They have missed the substance. The reality is that security is the responsibility of all of us. These kidnappers grew up in some families. This is indubitable evidence of the collapse of family values. Greed has supplanted self-satisfaction and immorality has displaced self-discipline in our homes. In our concluding remarks, we affirm that our hearts go to the families of the abducted pastors. We are deeply saddened. We share their fears and trepidations. Nonetheless, we appeal to them all to take heart and to be strong in faith. We are with them every inch of the way. They must not lose hope as the nation prays for them. We are confident that the five pastors will return home unhurt. NORMAL The Heartland Community College Foundation is hosting a night of stand-up comedy to support programs and scholarships. Heartland's Funnyraiser Comedy Night will be held from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Feb. 23 at the Astroth Community Education Center, 1500 W. Raab Road and will include local amateur comedians, a dollar-a-vote Crowd Favorite award, a silent auction, complimentary snacks at intermission and beverages for purchase. All proceeds from the night will go towards the Foundation Funding Priorities including scholarships for working adults, family meal program support for children and parents in campus day care and youth scholarships for the Challenger Learning Center. The Funnyraiser is one of the most unique fundraising events youll find in our community. Its that great experience of leaving a night feeling good because of how much you laughed, but feeling even better knowing whom you helped by coming to the event, said Chris Downing, executive director of the foundation. Funds raised by the event create opportunities for Heartland college students, support families with food insecurity and provide STEM experiences for bright younger minds. Youll never feel better about having a good time. The night will be led by emcee Joe Strupek and include sets from Jolene Aldus, development director of the Habitat for Humanity; data scientist Abby Scott; Chris Lacky, career and technical education instructor at Heartland; and Richard Seehuus, an English professor at Heartland. Tickets are $25. For a full lineup and to purchase tickets, visit heartland.edu/foundation/events/hccFunnyraiser.html. Photos: Toby Keith's visits to Bloomington-Normal June 29, 2017 June 29, 2017 June 29, 2017 July 16, 2010 July 16, 2010 July 16, 2010 July 16, 2010 July 16, 2010 July 16, 2010 April 27, 2001 This article was produced for ProPublicas Local Reporting Network in partnership with Capitol News Illinois. WAUKEGAN Kaleigh Rogers was in crisis when she checked into a state-run institution on Illinois northern border two years ago. Rogers, who has cerebral palsy, had a mental health breakdown during the pandemic and was acting aggressively toward herself and others. Before COVID-19, she had been living in a small group home; she had been taking college classes online and enjoyed going out with friends, volunteering and going to church. But when her aggression escalated, she needed more medical help than her community setting could provide. With few viable options for intervention, she moved into Kiley Developmental Center in Waukegan, a much larger facility. There, she says she has fewer freedoms and almost nothing to do, and was placed in a unit with six other residents, all of whom are unable to speak. Although the stay was meant to be short term, shes been there for two years. The predicament facing Rogers and others like her is proof, advocates say, that the state is failing to live up to the promise it made in a 13-year-old federal consent decree to serve people in the community. Rogers, 26, said she has lost so much at Kiley: her privacy, her autonomy and her purpose. During dark times, she cries on the phone to her mom, who has reduced the frequency of her visits because it is so upsetting for Rogers when her mom has to leave. The 220-bed developmental center about an hour north of Chicago is one of seven in the state that have been plagued by allegations of abuse and other staff misconduct. The facilities have been the subject of a monthslong investigation by Capitol News Illinois and ProPublica about the states failures to correct poor conditions for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The news organizations uncovered instances of staff who had beaten, choked, thrown, dragged and humiliated residents inside the state-run facilities. Advocates hoped the state would become less reliant on large institutions like these when they filed a lawsuit in 2005, alleging that Illinois failure to adequately fund community living options ended up segregating people with intellectual and developmental disabilities from society by forcing them to live in institutions. The suit claimed Illinois was in direct violation of a 1999 U.S. Supreme Court decision in another case, which found that states had to serve people in the most integrated setting of their choosing. Negotiations resulted in a consent decree, a court-supervised improvement plan. The state agreed to find and fund community placements and services for individuals covered by the consent decree, thousands of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Illinois who have put their names on waiting lists to receive them. Now, the state has asked a judge to consider ending the consent decree, citing significant increases in the number of people receiving community-based services. In a court filing in December, Illinois argued that while its system is not and never will be perfect, it is much more than legally adequate. But advocates say the consent decree should not be considered fulfilled as long as people with disabilities continue to live without the services and choices that the state promised. Across the country, states have significantly downsized or closed their large-scale institutions for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities in favor of smaller, more integrated and more homelike settings. But in Illinois, a national outlier, such efforts have foundered. Efforts to close state-operated developmental centers have been met with strong opposition from labor unions, the communities where the centers are located, local politicians and some parents. U.S. District Judge Sharon Johnson Coleman in Chicago is scheduled in late summer to decide whether the state has made enough progress in building up community supports to end the courts oversight. For some individuals like Rogers, who are in crisis or have higher medical or behavioral challenges, the state itself acknowledges that it has struggled to serve them in community settings. Rogers said shed like to send this message on behalf of those in state-operated developmental centers: Please, please get us out once and for all. Without a robust system of community-based resources and living arrangements to intervene during a crisis, state-operated developmental centers become a last resort for people with disabilities. But under the consent decree agreement, the state, Equip for Equality argues, is expected to offer sufficient alternative crisis supports to keep people who want them out of these institutions. In a written response to questions, Rachel Otwell, a spokesperson for the Illinois Department of Human Services, said the state has sought to expand the menu of services it offers people experiencing a crisis, in an effort to keep them from going into institutions. But Andrea Rizor, a lawyer with Equip for Equality, said, They just dont have enough to meet the demand. For example, the state offers stabilization homes where people can live for 90 days while they receive more intensive support from staff serving the homes, including medication reviews and behavioral interventions. But there are only 32 placements available only four of them for women and the beds are always full, Rizor said. Too many people, she said, enter a state-run institution for short-term treatment and end up stuck there for years for various reasons, including shortcomings with the states discharge planning and concerns from providers who may assume those residents to be disruptive or difficult to serve without adequate resources. Thats what happened to Rogers. Interruptions to her routine and isolation during the pandemic sent her anxiety and aggressive behaviors into overdrive. The staff at her community group home in Machesney Park, unsure of what to do when she acted out, had called the police on several occasions. Doctors also tried to intervene, but the cocktail of medications she was prescribed turned her into a zombie, Rogers said. Stacey Rogers, her mom and legal guardian, said she didnt know where else to turn for help. Kiley, she said, was pretty much the last resort for us, but she never intended for her daughter to be there for this long. Shes helped her daughter apply to dozens of group homes over the past year. A few put her on waitlists; most have turned her down. Right now, all shes doing is living inside a box, Stacey Rogers said. Although Rogers gave the news organizations permission to ask about her situation, IDHS declined to comment, citing privacy restrictions. In general, the IDHS spokesperson said that timelines for leaving institutions are specific to each individual and their unique preferences, such as where they want to live and speciality services they may require in a group home. Equip for Equality points to people like Rogers to argue that the consent decree has not been sufficiently fulfilled. Shes one of several hundred in that predicament, the organization said. If the state doesnt have capacity to serve folks in the community, then the time is not right to terminate this consent decree, which requires community capacity, Rizor said. Equip for Equality has said that ongoing safety issues in these facilities make it even more important that people covered by the consent decree not be placed in state-run institutions. In an October court brief, citing the news organizations reporting, Equip for Equality said that individuals with disabilities who were transferred from community to institutional care in crisis have died, been raped, and been physically and mentally abused. Over the summer, an independent court monitor assigned to provide expert opinions in the consent decree, in a memo to the court, asked a judge to bar the state from admitting those individuals into its institutions. In its December court filing, the state acknowledged that there are some safety concerns inside its state-run centers, which the state is diligently working on, as well as conditions inside privately operated facilities and group homes that need to be addressed. But it also argued that conditions inside its facilities are outside the scope of the consent decree. The lawsuit and consent decree specifically aimed to help people who wanted to move out of large private institutions, but plaintiffs attorneys argue that the consent decree prohibits the state from using state-run institutions as backup crisis centers. In arguing to end the consent decree, the state pointed to significant increases in the number of people served since it went into effect. There were about 13,500 people receiving home- and community-based services in 2011 compared with more than 23,000 in 2023, it told the court. The state also said it has significantly increased funding that is earmarked to pay front-line direct support professionals who assist individuals with daily living needs in the community, such as eating and grooming. In a statement to reporters, the human services department called these and other improvements to the system extraordinary. Lawyers for the state argued that those improvements are enough to end court oversight. The systemic barriers that were in place in 2011 no longer exist, the states court filing said. Among those who were able to find homes in the community is Stanley Ligas, the lead plaintiff in the lawsuit that led to the consent decree. When it was filed in 2005, he was living in a roughly 100-bed private facility but wanted to move into a community home closer to his sister. The state refused to fund his move. Today, the 56-year-old lives in Oswego with three roommates in a house they rent. All of them receive services to help their daily living needs through a nonprofit, and Ligas has held jobs in the community: He previously worked in a bowling alley and is now paid to make public appearances to advocate for others with disabilities. He lives near his sister, says he goes on family beach vacations and enjoys watching professional wrestling with friends. During an interview with reporters, Ligas hugged his caregiver and said hes very happy and hopes others can receive the same opportunities hes been given. While much of that progress has come only in recent years, under Gov. J.B. Pritzkers administration, it has proven to be vulnerable to political and economic changes. After a prolonged budget stalemate, the court in 2017 found Illinois out of compliance with the Ligas consent decree. At the time, late and insufficient payments from the state had resulted in a staffing crisis inside community group homes, leading to escalating claims of abuse and neglect and failures to provide routine services that residents relied on, such as help getting to work, social engagements and medical appointments in the community. Advocates worry about what could happen under a different administration, or this one, if Illinois finances continue to decline as projected. I acknowledge the commitments that this administration has made. However, because we had so far to come, we still have far to go, said Kathy Carmody, chief executive of The Institute on Public Policy for People with Disabilities, which represents providers. While the wait for services is significantly shorter than it was when the consent decree went into effect in 2011, there are still more than 5,000 adults who have told the state they want community services but have yet to receive them, most of them in a family home. Most people spend about five years waiting to get the services they request. And Illinois continues to rank near the bottom in terms of the investment it makes in community-based services, according to a University of Kansas analysis of states spending on services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Advocates who believe the consent decree has not been fulfilled contend that Illinois continued reliance on congregate settings has tied up funds that could go into building up more community living options. Each year, Illinois spends about $347,000 per person to care for those in state-run institutions compared with roughly $91,000 per person spent to support those living in the community. For Rogers, the days inside Kiley are long, tedious and sometimes chaotic. It can be stressful, but Rogers told reporters that she uses soothing self-talk to calm herself when she feels sad or anxious. I tell myself: You are doing good. You are doing great. You have people outside of here that care about you and cherish you. Photos: Pritzker Military Archives Center At first, I thought it was a scam when I received this email message on Monday, Jan. 22: You are invited to attend Communities in Action: Building a Better Illinois and Indiana at the White House on Thursday, February 1. Did the Biden Administration really want to hear from me? From the return email address it seemed legitimate, so a flight and hotel were quickly booked. At 1 p.m. Feb. 1, I was in line with over 70 people outside the White House west gate; there were Illinois state legislators, community organizations, mayors and four Illinois labor representatives, including myself, threading our way through security. Aides ushered us into the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, an elaborate wedding cake of a building, originally commissioned by Ulysses S. Grant in 1871, completed in 1888. The ornate interior with its marble walls and elaborate sculptures echoed American history. That day President Biden was speaking to the United Auto Workers in Michigan, so the president's senior adviser, Tom Perez, addressed the group, along with Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg. Their message? Jobs were back, the administration was investing in America and the country is on an upswing. The March 2021 American Rescue Plant Act (ARPA), what Perez called Americas best friend, pumped millions into local communities, reviving after COVID. The November 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) promises billions for roads, bridges, water, rail, water, air and electronic updating. Perez specifically mentioned the Belvidere, Illinois, Stellantis (formerly Chrysler) shuttered auto plant, scheduled to build batteries and in 2027 light pick-ups, as an Illinois positive. Rural areas often suffer poor electronic access and Perez compared upcoming broadband expansion to the 1930s Rural Electrification Act. Buttigieg trumpeted the approximately $3 trillion Infrastructure Act and the promised, decade-long economic development program. When he asked for questions, I quickly raised my hand. I shared how these investments, plus Gov. J.B. Pritzkers 2019 $45 billion Rebuild Illinois program, are creating Mclean County jobs and opening trade apprenticeships. I noted that my home union, Laborers International Union of North America Local 362, was lucky to accept five to 10 apprentices a decade ago. Now our apprentice class numbers 58. United Association of Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 99 has grown from an average of thirty apprentices to 72. In 2017 International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 197 had 19 apprentices; today, it has 97. These are union career jobs with decent pay, full benefits and no student debt attracting diverse young people. Locally, these federal programs not only funded construction, but also created investments in small businesses and social services. Under ARPA, McLean County invested in rural water districts. Bloomington applied funds to the Colton Street sewer project, hopefully protecting that neighborhood from future funding. Under the Infrastructure Act, Normal will rebuild College Avenue and build the Uptown trail railroad underpass. Central Illinois Regional Airport is receiving $2 million for runway and other updates. The Bloomington-Normal Water Reclamation District is receiving underwriting from the 2013 Federal Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act to rebuild our water and sewer systems. Visiting the Capitol and its grand structures reminded me that America used to think big. During the depths of the Great Depression in the 1930s, President Franklin Roosevelt launched a national jobs and construction effort the New Deal whose dams, roads and parks we still use today. For 21st century competitiveness, this nation requires state of the art infrastructure. This means not only rail, road, waterways and airports but also windmills, solar farms and an updated electrical and electronic grid. Our challenge is economic sustainability and mitigating climate disaster. These long-term federal investments create jobs today and are the groundwork for our future. When I attend Laborers Local 362 meetings, I share time with our diverse, young apprentices, who are learning a trade and constructing our collective future. Returning from the White House, I am proud that the Biden Administration is projecting bold answers. If successful, future generations will enjoy the fruits from investing in the USA today. Mike Matejka lives in Normal and is retired from Laborers International Union of North America Local 362. Mona Hao, a 29-year-old woman who works at an internet tech firm in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, plans to spend Spring Festival in traditional garb to express her respect for Chinese culture. Since her childhood, Hao has worn Tang suits during the Spring Festival. Over time, wearing hanfu, the traditional attire of the Han ethnic group, has become so routine that she, on occasion, also wears it for work. A big collector of traditional Chinese apparel, Hao owns over 100 sets of hanfu, mainly purchasing them online. The price for a single piece that she bought could be 300 yuan ($42) to 500 yuan, or even higher. "For this year's Spring Festival, I plan to buy two to three sets of hanfu costumes in red and with the sign of the dragon to celebrate the Year of the Dragon," Hao said. She also wants to buy some winter clothing in red, fur jackets and fluffy scarves to match. As the Spring Festival is one of the biggest gifting seasons of the Chinese lunar year, Hao has also bought modified traditional Chinese clothing for her mother and other female relatives. Over the years, influenced by Hao, the family has also become more interested in these outfits and has sought her recommendations. More youngsters in China are making plans for the Spring Festival holiday, looking for new ways to spend their money. About 83 percent of those aged between 18 and 35 think they, or their spouses, are the primary planners for the festival this year, while the rest say it is their parents, according to the 2024 insights on social media trends during the festival, compiled jointly by market research institute Kantar and Xiaohongshu, a lifestyle-focused social media platform. The report, based on interviews with 400 young users across first and third-tier cities, highlights that 48 percent of respondents have opted to celebrate the holiday at home, 33 percent plan to return to their hometowns, while 18 percent intend to travel, with 1 percent saying they have no specific plans yet. The report has found that the top fixed spending during the Spring Festival will be on apparel and accessories (48 percent), snacks, alcohol and beverages (36 percent), fresh agricultural products (36 percent), out-of-home dining (36 percent), and personal hygiene (36 percent). To celebrate the Lantern Festival, or the 15th day of the Lunar New Year, Hao has plans to buy some lanterns and take them to lantern shows. "The Lantern Festival is a popular time to wear hanfu in a white silk jacket and a blue satin skirt," she said. Spring Festival is also a time for big meals and happy gatherings, when snacks and beverages are in high demand. Jessica Liu, a 30-year-old office worker in Beijing, usually buys various kinds of snacks with beautiful packaging for family members during the Spring Festival. This year, she plans to buy some cookies, dried plums and marshmallows for herself and other young relatives, as well as nuts and melon seeds for the elderly. "I will buy many snacks, fill the plates with food and put them on the table. This will create a joyful atmosphere during Chinese New Year," Liu said. Eyeing the increasingly sophisticated demands from young consumers, Chinese snack makers are taking more effort in designing and marketing their products. Snack maker Weilong Delicious Global Holdings launched gift boxes in advance late last year to prepare for Spring Festival. The gift box is designed in the shape of a dragon and can be stretched, making it more fun when consumers try to open the boxes, the company said. The company, which makes popular spicy snacks made of wheat flour and konjac, has also created a series of short videos to promote the gift box by combining the latest marketing trends and buzzwords, thus attracting the interest of young consumers in its gift boxes as well as other products. Weilong said marketing for the Spring Festival needs to keep up with market changes, and brands need to directly tug at the emotions of young people, while sticking to the traditions and heritage of Chinese culture. For many young people, the essence of Lunar New Year is returning home after a year of living away from parents and loved ones. Liu Qin, 31, a brand director at a firm in Shanghai, is expected to spend the holiday with her parents in hometown Enshi, in Hubei province, following the customs of her Tujia ethnic group. "We will go to the local market and get some food ingredients," said Liu. The Tujia celebrate by staying at home, preparing a grand dinner on the last day of the lunar year, and enjoying the first day of the Year of the Dragon with play and rest. "I will start working overseas after the Spring Festival as our business has expanded to international markets. It is important for me to spend the holiday with my parents now," said Liu. Contact the writers at wangzhuoqiong@chinadaily.com.cn By Stephen Beech via SWNS Black women are six times more likely to be murdered than white women in the United States, according to new research. Homicide rates among black women were "significantly" higher than for white women in all 30 states analyzed - with some evidence suggesting the biggest differences are in states with the highest racial inequities. The greatest disparity in murder rates during the study period of 1999 to 2020 was in Wisconsin where black women were 20 times more likely to be murdered than their white peers. The study, published in The Lancet, is the first to analyze homicide trends spanning two decades among women aged 25 to 44 the ages when women are most likely to be murdered. The findings also indicate that black women are more likely than white women to be shot dead. Study lead author Dr Bernadine Waller, of Columbia University Irving Medical Center, said: As a scholar whose research examines intimate partner violence, I have long known that there were disparities in homicide rates between black and white women. "To uncover the fact that black women are murdered at rates as high as 20 to one in some states is heart-breaking and underscores the urgent need to make substantive structural shifts. She said recent evidence suggests a strong link exists between higher homicide rates and the effects of "deeply entrenched" racial inequities which manifest through factors such as educational attainment, unemployment, and wealth distribution across the USA. The research team's analysis focused on the murders of women aged 25 to 44 between 1999 and 2020 in the 30 states with enough homicides - more than nine in any year - for analysis. Results were produced for five time periods: 1999-2003; 2004-2008; 2009-2013; 2014-2018; and 2019-2020. The method of homicide was analyzed for four US regions: South, Midwest, West, and Northeast. The overall homicide rate among black women in 2020 was 11.6 per 100,000 population, compared with three per 100,000 among white women. The figure was virtually unchanged from 1999 when the rate among black women was 11.6 per 100,000 compared to 2.9 per 100,000 in white women. While disparities in homicide rates fell between 1999 and 2013 due to a decrease in homicide rates in black women they increased from 2013 to 2020. Homicide rates among black women were higher than their white peers during all periods in every state analyzed. Overall, the greatest disparities were in the Midwest, where black women in 2020 were over seven times more likely to be murdered than white women. States with the greatest disparities in homicide rates were in parts of the country with a high proportion of people of low socio-economic status living close together. The researchers said those areas also tend to have histories of slavery and lynching and are places where especially tense Black Lives Matter (BLM) protests took place at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. But they said there are also many underlying factors involved, such as gender males are more often responsible for intimate partner violence and shootings but these were not investigated in the study. Study co-author Victoria Joseph, a data analyst at Mailman School of Public Health Epidemiology, Columbia University. said: Our findings indicate that the greatest inequities are in the areas of the country where concentrated disadvantage is pronounced. "Thus, focusing on historical structural racisms long-lasting legacy in the USA is imperative. "Efforts aimed at reducing disproportionate homicide deaths among black women can be implemented through addressing the role of structural racism when it comes to policies and practices that increase black womens risk and lessen black womens access to much-needed resources." American women in general were more than twice as likely to be killed by firearms in 2019-2020 compared to 1999-2003, according to the findings. But black women were 1.38 times more likely than white women to be shot dead. Study senior author Professor Katherine Keyes, of Mailman School of Public Health, said: Available data indicate that homicides in the USA continued to escalate in many areas of the country during the COVID-19 pandemic, which also intersected with widespread national protests after the murder of George Floyd. "These trends reflect systems that have long disserviced communities of color, and underscore that sustained investment and vision to support underserved communities are critical to reverse racial injustices that impact health and well-being." 37 suspects arrested in connection with the attacks on the Bepong Chiefs palace and several police officers at Kwahu Bepong in the Eastern Region have been remanded by the Nkawkwa District Court. Presided over by His Worship Isaac Adjei, the court scheduled their next appearance for February 23, 2024. The suspects allegedly assaulted the Bepong Chiefs Palace on February 4, 2024, resulting in injuries to seven individuals, including five police officers. Background Two people were reported dead after allegedly being hit by stray bullets fired by the police during the melee to disperse the ruthless crowd. Reportedly, the event took place inside the chiefs palace, where law enforcement had gone to free a suspected murderer who was suspected of killing two persons in Adwumasu, a farming hamlet in Kwahu South Municipality. The 45-year-old Akua Kyerewaa was allegedly raped and killed by the suspect, Kwasi Tenkorang, a 23-year-old ex-convict, according to accounts. Kwasi Antwi, the victims 65-year-old brother, died instantly after being struck in the head with a metal rod while attempting to save his sister. After seeing the crime and being pursued by the culprit, an eyewitness who was only identified as Frederick who was headed to the property narrowly avoided death. On Sunday, February 4th, the suspectwho had been evading capture since the incidentwas apprehended and brought to the chiefs palace. When word spread about the arrest, members of the community attacked the palace, demanding his immediate release in exchange for swift justice. However, the police intervened and stopped it from happening. But rather than lynching the culprit as the Police forbade it, they attacked the Police, hurling stones and other weapons at them. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, Minister for Information, has articulated the position of the Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, on the issue of E-Levy. The Minister, speaking on Peace FM's morning show "Kokrokoo", defended Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the governing New Patriotic Party, who in outlining his vision to Ghanaians should he become President emphasized that he will abolish E-Levy. Delivering his policy statement and priorities to Ghanaians in Accra on Wednesday February 7, 2024, Dr. Bawumia said abolishing the e-levy which is tax on mobile money transactions will boost his bid for a cashless society. To move towards a cashless economy however, we have to encourage the population to use electronic channels payment. To accomplish this, there will be no taxes on digital payments under my administration. The e-levy will therefore, be abolished, he declared. But some critics find this pledge contradictory and a betrayal of his government as it is the Akufo-Addo administration, under which Dr. Bawumia is the Vice President, that introduced E-Levy. The Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta admonished Ghanaians to pay E-Levy (Electronic Levy) giving reasons it will help the government generate revenues towards road and infrastructure development. Hon. Kojo Oppong Nkrumah was asked by the host of the morning show, Kwami Sefa Kayi, why the Vice President would promise to abort the E-Levy. The Minister, in his reply, cleared the air on Dr. Bawumia's position on the matter. According to him, the Vice President has always and consistently been very explicit on not supporting the E-Levy and his promise to cancel it is line with his principle. He explained that the E-Levy coming into force despite Dr. Bawumia being against it in principle was to meet a requirement and that requirement has been satisfied, hence, to the Vice President, as part of his measures to build a digital economy; it is prudent for him to abolish the electronic tax. "His position is never changed...and today, consistent with his position, he is explaining that, when he comes into power, it is no longer an advice from him", Hon. Oppong Nkrumah remarked, adding when Dr. Bawumia becomes President, he will hold the executive power under Article 58, so stressing "E-Levy is off the books". He also emphasized the E-Levy will be cancelled under the Bawumia government "because the conditions that led to it, the fiscal programme we run to bring about these things is going to be different from January 25 and his position on it is well-articulated. And he says again that he wants to build a digital economy, an economy where we will make use of a lot of electronic payment". Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Second Accused in the ongoing Kasoa ritual murder has pleaded with the high court in Accra for the conduct of forensic test on the exhibits presented by the Prosecution as evidence. This, according to him will show that, he did not play any role in the crime. He made the plea when his lawyer Lawrence Boampong, holding brief for Martin Kpebu led him to conclude his evidence-in-chief to the court. According to him, the tools which were presented to court as exhibits were already at the crime scene before the said incident. He added that contrary to reports that they used those tools to murder the deceased, (Ismael Mensah Abdallah) he did not touch any of them. The second accused also told the court that, the first accused mentioned him as an accomplice because they spent the night together prior to the incident and not because they did it together. He further told the court that, parents of the first accused , (Kwame Nyarko and Emelia Donkor) influenced their son (first accused) to mention his name as his accomplice. He added that, it is aslo false that he and the first accused called someone at Suhum for money rituals. Two teenagers are currently standing before the High Court on Accra for the alleged murder of Ismael Mensah Abdallah in 2021. The presiding Judge, Justice Lydia Osei-Marfo has adjourned the case to February 12 for continuation. Source: Philipa Atanga/Court Reporter/Despite Media Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video US President Joe Biden has humoured some Egyptians after he mistakenly referred to Egypt's President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi as "the president of Mexico". "As you know, initially the president of Mexico, Sisi, did not want to open up the gate to allow humanitarian material to get in [Gaza]," President Biden said during a press conference late on Thursday while commenting on the ongoing war between Israel and Gaza. Mexico's president is called Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. Some amused Egyptians have taken to social media to point out that the mix-up is humorous as Egyptians have long nicknamed President al-Sisi "El Meksiki", which translates to "The Mexican" to avoid censorship. "You cant criticize the president freely so Egyptians started calling him 'El Meksiki' ('the Mexican' in Arabic) because it sounds like 'al-Sisi' so they can avoid censorship and criticize him freely," one user shared on X (formerly Twitter). "It's more hilarious when you all know that actually in Egypt we call him [Mr al-Sisi] 'El Meksiki' the Mexican rather than 'al-Sisi' to not be noticed by the Egyptian government," another Egyptian posted. In the US, the mix-up has sparked concerns about President Biden's health and cognitive abilities, but the leader has defended his mental fitness for the presidency. Source: BBC Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Malawi has removed visa restrictions for travellers from 79 countries in an effort to boost tourism and trade in the country. The Homeland Security Minister Ken Zikhae, in a gazette notice on Wednesday, amended the immigration regulations - effectively lifting visa barriers for citizens from the UK, China, Russia, Germany, Australia, Canada, Belgium, Ghana, The Gambia, Sierra Leone, France and others. Nationals from the Southern African Development Community (Sadc) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (Comesa) are also exempt from visa requirements. This excludes countries that impose visa requirements on Malawian citizens. The changes also include exemptions for certain groups such as diplomats and government officials, and countries that have mutual exchange agreements for multiple-entry visas with Malawi. The validity of multiple entry visas in Malawi is now up to 12 months, according to the new visa regulations. This monumental decision isnt just about visas; its about unleashing the untapped potential of our beloved Malawi and inviting the world to experience its wonders first-hand," Tourism Minister Vera Kamtukule told local media. The British embassy in Malawi urged its nationals to take advantage of the relaxed visa restrictions to visit a range of popular tourist attractions in the southern African country. Malawi joins Kenya and Rwanda in opening up their countries to African travellers. Source: BBC Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Government has begun a demolition exercise from the Adenta Barrier Oyibi stretch to pave the way for the construction works for the redevelopment of the 22km Adenta-Dodowa road in Greater Accra. Early Thursday morning, a set of bulldozers were spotted on the Adenta Barrier stretch to Oyibi demolition the structures of the squatters who failed to pack off after the Ghana Highway Authority gave them a deadline to remove their structures. The squatters were seen packing off their items from shops and loading them into trucks as some were stranded and weeping. On the 30km Kasoa-Winneba stretch, there will be interchanges/flyovers at Budumburam, Akoti, Sabato, and Winneba Junctions as well as the Adenta-Dodowa road, there will also be interchanges/flyovers at major intersections. The Kasoa-Budumburam road will be undertaken by NagFairmont Limited while the Adenta-Dodowa will be constructed by Oswal Investments Ltd. The Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwesi Amoako-Attah on in last year handed over the sites to contractors to commence the work. The Minister announced that the roads will be reconstructed into a 2-lane dual carriageway with service lanes, interchanges, and overpasses. Source: dailyguidenetwork.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video An undisclosed amount of money and other valuable properties have, reportedly, been destroyed by an inferno. This happened when a residential fire gutted a 15-bedroom house at Meduma near Kumasi on Wednesday, February 7, around 3pm. The blaze was said to have started from one of the rooms in the house, and it spread fast into other rooms, causing massive destruction. According to a police report, which the paper has sighted, the house was virtually empty with the inhabitants outside when the fire started. It said eyewitnesses alerted the Ghana National Fire Service, who immediately rushed to the fire scene to bring the blaze under control. But it was too late as the inferno had already consumed huge amount of money and other valuable items in the affected house. On February 7, 2024, at about 1500 hours, the Mamponteng District Patrol team received intel from the Regional Control Room about fire outbreak at Meduma. The team together with an Investigator proceeded to the scene and found that fire had engulfed a fifteen (15) bedroom house, located a few meters from Meduma Methodist Church, belonging to one Nana Amokrah of Meduma. Two fire tenders were met fighting the fire at the scene. Most of the occupants of the house were not available when the fire started, the police report said. Preliminary investigations, police said, revealed that neighbours noticed smoke emanating from one of the rooms in the house, being occupied by a woman and her mentally-challenged mother, and spread to other rooms. Two fire tenders from Mamponteng Municipal and Bremang fire stations rushed to the scene to put off the fire and also prevent it from spreading to the adjourning houses. However, it was late as properties running into thousands of cedis, including undisclosed amount of cash, had already been burnt, the police report disclosed, noting that the cause of the fire is under investigation. Source: dailyguidenetwork.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has praised Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as a man destined for greatness. During Dr Bawumias address to the nation in Accra on Wednesday, Kufuor commended his leadership abilities and called on Ghanaians to support him. Kufuor recalled his first encounter with Bawumia in 2002 when he was a research assistant to the governor of the Bank of Ghana. He was impressed with Bawumias presentation at an international conference in London and prophesied that he would go far. In 2008, Bawumia was selected as the running mate to then-presidential candidate Nana Akufo-Addo. This man is on a mission. A mission determined by destiny. Lets all support him to continue. Quality leadership is very scarce, Kufuor remarked. Highlighting the need for visionary leadership in Ghana, Kufuor urged the country to move beyond regular politics and focus on the nations challenges. He emphasized the importance of competent individuals working alongside Bawumia to address these challenges. Ghana has come to a crossroads. Its not the regular politics we want. We want a leadership with vision even in the complex world I spoke about. We should be talking about the nation and not so much as the party. We must get competent people to work with him to bring us out of the challenges we are in now, Kufuor stated. Kufuors words of support for Vice President Bawumia highlight the confidence he has in Bawumias leadership abilities and his belief that Bawumia is destined for great achievements. As the country faces numerous challenges, Kufuors call to rally behind Bawumia and provide him with support echoes the need for unity and effective leadership to steer Ghana towards a better future. Source: Daily Guide Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Minister for Information, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah has asked Ghanaians to trust Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to deliver on his promises when elected President of Ghana. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, delivered his vision to Ghanaians at an event held at the UPSA in Accra. The Vice President outlined various policies he intends to implement under his reign as President and among the policies are he will abolish E-Levy, betting tax and other taxes, grant tax amnesty, abolish national service, build a "Digital Ghana" and create a technology hub in Ghana, give every tertiary student a laptop to facilitate their studies, remove the human face at passport office. He also touched on what the incumbent government has achieved particularly regarding the things he is in charge, hence citing his digitalization agenda which he noted has been very successful. He mentioned areas like the Ghana Card synchronization with SSNIT, GRA, banking transactions and so forth as well as networking of hospitals across the country. This notwithstanding, some people blame him for the economic mess under the Akufo-Addo administration, so wondering what new or different thing can he do to salvage the economy. Reacting to this, the Information Minister has outlined reasons why Dr. Bawumia deserves to be Ghana's next President. Hon. Kojo Oppong Nkrumah noted that Dr. Bawumia has been very instrumental in digitalizing the economy and not only that but has also executed his duties effectively, thereby proving to the populace how competent he is to lead the nation. The Minister, contributing to "Kokrokoo" panel discussion show on Peace FM on Thursday, February 8, stated emphatically that under the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government, "about 80 percent of our promises either completed or in progress". He alluded to the New Patriotic Party's 2017 manifesto stating the government has accomplished a lot of its policies. Also responding to criticisms that Dr. Bawumia cannot be absolved from the economic woes visited upon Ghanaians, Hon. Oppong Nkrumah opined that the Vice President cannot be blamed for the underperformance of the Ministers charged with responsibility of ensuring the government's vision materializes. "If Nana Addo's government promises that we will establish Creative Arts studios, the Vice President is not a Tourism Minister. So if, in the end, the Tourism Ministry doesn't deliver, it will be difficult to say you are holding the Vice President responsible for it, especially when in our constitutional arrangement, he has no direct responsibility over it", he cited. The Minister implored Ghanaians to give Dr. Bawumia the nod saying "you must believe him because, first, the NPP broadly has delivered on majority of its promises despite the challenges today and, second, the specific things that Dr. Bawumia was charged to handle, the evidence is clear of how he has handled it". Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video 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: This photo provided by Axiom Space shows a SpaceX capsule parachuting into the Atlantic Ocean on Friday, Feb. 9, 2024 off the Florida coast. Astronauts from Turkey, Italy and Sweden returned to Earth on Friday, ending a private three-week mission to the International Space Station. Credit: Axiom Space via AP Astronauts from Turkey, Italy and Sweden returned to Earth on Friday, ending a private three-week mission to the International Space Station. The trio were accompanied by a retired NASA astronaut who now works for Axiom Space, the Houston company that arranged the chartered flight. The crew returned in a SpaceX capsule that parachuted into the Atlantic off the Florida coast. Turkey celebrated Alper Gezeravci's launch from Cape Canaveral last month. A former fighter pilot and captain for Turkish Airlines, he became the first person from his country to fly in space. Gezeravci was joined on the trip by Italian Air Force Col. Walter Villadei, Sweden's Marcus Wandt, a former fighter pilot chosen as a reserve astronaut by the European Space Agency in 2022 and Michael Lopez-Alegria, their escort. Turkey, Italy and Sweden financed the mission, paying roughly $55 million apiece. It was Axiom's third private mission to the space station; the fourth is planned later this year. This photo provided by Axiom Space shows astronauts giving a thumbs up after the SpaceX capsule parachuted into the Atlantic Ocean and was placed aboard a recovery vessel on Friday, Feb. 9, 2024 off the Florida coast. Astronauts from Turkey, Italy and Sweden returned to Earth on Friday, ending a private three-week mission to the International Space Station. Credit: Axiom Space via AP This photo provided by Axiom Space shows a SpaceX capsule parachuting into the Atlantic Ocean on Friday, Feb. 9, 2024 off the Florida coast. Astronauts from Turkey, Italy and Sweden returned to Earth on Friday, ending a private three-week mission to the International Space Station. Credit: Axiom Space via AP This photo provided by Axiom Space shows a SpaceX capsule parachuting into the Atlantic Ocean on Friday, Feb. 9, 2024 off the Florida coast. Astronauts from Turkey, Italy and Sweden returned to Earth on Friday, ending a private three-week mission to the International Space Station. Credit: Axiom Space via AP In this image from video provided by NASA, the 11 International Space Station crew members representing Expedition 70 (red shirts) and Axiom Space 3 (dark blue suits) crews gather for a farewell ceremony calling down to mission controllers on Earth on Friday, Feb. 2, 2024. Front row from left are Italy's Walter Villadei, Turkey's Alper Gezeravci and Sweden's Marcus Wandt. Above them hanging upside down in blue is Axiom Space's Michael Lopez-Alegria, a former NASA astronaut. Credit: NASA via AP Before leaving the space station, Gezeravci thanked his country for its "bold and determined decision" to send a citizen into space as part of its 100th anniversary as a republic. While in orbit, the astronauts conducted science experiments and chatted with schoolchildren and officials from their countries. They enjoyed a few extra days at the space station, waiting for the weather to improve in the splashdown zone. 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. If you have an event you'd like to list on the site, submit it now! Submit 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: Dual-wavelength image of SNR CTB 87: NVSS 1.4 GHz radio continuum image in red, and Chandra X-ray (0.57 keV) image in blue. The white cross indicates the location of the X-ray point-like source. Credit: Liu et al., 2024. Using the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical radio Telescope (FAST), astronomers from the Nanjing University in China and elsewhere, have detected a radio pulsar in a supernova remnant known as CTB 87. The finding is reported in a paper published February 1 on the arXiv pre-print server. Pulsars are highly magnetized, rotating neutron stars emitting a beam of electromagnetic radiation. They are usually detected in the form of short bursts of radio emission; however, some of them are also observed via optical, X-ray and gamma-ray telescopes. CTB 87 is a plerionic supernova remnant (SNR) with an X-ray luminosity nearly 100-times weaker than the Crab Nebula in the 0.153 keV band. It hosts a pulsar wind nebula (PWN) with trailing morphology in X-rays. However, although PWNe are nebulae powered by the wind of a pulsar, no such object in this SNR has been found to date. Recently, a team of astronomers led by Nanjing University's Qian-Cheng Liu investigated a point-like X-ray source in CTB 87, designated CXOU J201609.2+371110. They report that using FAST radio pulses have been discovered from this source. "We report on our discovery of the radio pulsar, PSR J2016+3711, in supernova remnant CTB 87, with a 10.8???? significance of pulses, which confirms the compact nature of the X-ray point source in CTB 87," the researchers wrote. According to the paper, PSR J2016+3711, located at a distance of about 43,400 light years, has a spin period of 50.8 milliseconds and a dispersion measure of approximately 428 pc/cm3. The pulsar's spin down luminosity was measured to be 22 undecillion erg/s, while its characteristic age is estimated to be 11,100 years. PSR J2016+3711 therefore is the first pulsar in SNR detected with FAST. The strength of the equatorial surface dipole magnetic field of PSR J2016+3711 was found to be at a level of 1.9 TG. The study also found that the radio pulse profile of this pulsar is narrow, without broad wings, which suggests that the radio beam starting near the magnetic polar cap is intrinsically narrow, or the line of sight sweeps just across a small segment of a broad beam. Given that many pulsars also emit gamma-rays, Liu's team has also analyzed the data from NASA's Fermi spacecraft to search for the possible gamma-ray pulsation from PSR J2016+3711. However, they found no gamma-ray pulsation from this source. The researchers added that more observations are needed in order to definitively exclude PSR J2016+3711 as a gamma-ray emitter. "More follow-up radio observations spanning over years would be helpful to obtain a more accurate timing solution, which could then be used to fold the gamma-ray data and search for the pulsation," the authors of the study concluded. More information: Qian-Cheng Liu et al, Discovery and timing of pulsar J2016+3711 in supernova remnant CTB 87 with FAST, arXiv (2024). DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2402.00578 Journal information: arXiv 2024 Science X Network This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: CC0 Public Domain Managing menstruation in public can be challenging at the best of times, but imagine being eight years old and having to deal with your period at school. You might need to change your pad during class and explain to your friends why you are not going to the swimming carnival. You might be scared you will bleed through your uniform because there aren't any sanitary bins in the junior years' bathroom. In Australia, the average age of the first period is about 13. But about 12% of children get their period between the ages of eight and 11. Researchers call this "early menarche" or "early onset menstruation". But even though a significant proportion of students are getting their first period as early as Year 3 or even Year 2, primary school students are not officially taught about puberty until Years 5 and 6 (when they are aged between 10 and 12). Our research explores current period education and what support is available for early menstruators. It shows how schools can act as gatekeepers of knowledge about this essential and very normal part of human development. Period shame exists but is not inevitable Shame about periods has existed in many parts of the world for centuries. Researchers have noted how children are taught not to talk about menstruation and if they do, it is often negatively (with a focus on pain and discomfort). A 2021 survey found 29% of 659 menstruating Australian students aged ten to 18 were concerned they would be teased at school for having their period. Similar issues occur as students grow older. A 2022 Australian survey of 410 university students who menstruate found only 16.2% felt completely confident in managing their periods at university. Just over half believed society thought periods were taboo (and so, not something you talk about). But the stigma is not inevitable. There are examples of education programs in other countries that celebrate periods and are accessible across ages. There is a Swedish program that provides information for young people, stories about first periods and advice on how adults can talk to children about menstruation. In the United Kingdom, there are moves to introduce a "period positive" curriculum for school students. What is taught in Australian schools? The Australian curriculum does not not explicitly mention "period" or "menstruation" in any of its online health and physical education curriculum resources, for any year levels up to Year 10. We can assume schools would cover it under topics such as "understand the physical [] changes that are occurring for them". But without explicit mention to menstruation or periods, it is likely what is being taught across classrooms in Australia is variable and insufficient. It was last updated in 2022, under the former Morrison government. Our research We interviewed 15 staff across government, Catholic and private primary schools in Australia. We asked staff about their awareness of students who have experienced early onset menstruation, how their students are educated about periods, and what support is available to them. Staff spoke about how students who menstruated early "felt isolated" and voiced the need for earlier "matter-of-fact" menstruation education. As one teacher told us: "I think we've got to take it down to Years 3 and 4 and be a lot more specific than we have been, because you are going to get more and more being younger." However, several participants shared apprehension around having discussions about periods with young students. As one teacher explained: "You don't want to scare young girls, like seven-and eight-year-olds [] if it is happening earlier, it needs to be talked about earlier. But that's a hard one because a lot of girls [] aren't really mature enough to understand []" Another teacher said that talking about periods in Year 3 was "probably a bit too much [] you don't want to traumatize the child". Gatekeeping knowledge and awareness about periods from younger children is a problem on multiple levels. For one, it can deprive children of vital information about their bodies. For another, it frames menstruation as something inherently inappropriate, scary or crude. This in turn can reinforce stigma and taboo. Can we tell boys about this? Staff also spoke about how boys were not necessarily included in lessons about periods, and how male teachers may not have experience talking about these issues. As one teacher told us: "It is a discussion that's been done where they don't really include the boys in it []." School staff also raised concerns that teaching boys about menstruation might present an opportunity for bullying or teasing. One school support officer suggested only girls should be taught about periods, noting: "they [boys] might be like 'oh, I found your pad!'" However, separating classrooms by gender for these lessons does not encourage the normalization of periods. A 2016 study explored the attitudes of 48 Australian men towards menstruation. Participants reported being told little or nothing about periods while growing up, and so they grew up believing it was taboo. Other teachers in our study noted how important it was for male students to be taught about periods. "I found it really frustrating that we're giving young men who are eventually going to be in workplaces and potentially in positions of leadership, who are being deprived of these matter-of-fact moments of teaching [about menstruation] where they're going to sort of pick up these things through like hearsay, through sort of uneducated conversation []" What needs to happen instead? Our study emphasizes how a lack of timely and comprehensive education and support for early menstruators in Australian schools is underpinned by menstrual stigma and taboo. But it also showed how the issue is driven by perceptions of children's capacity to learn about periods, based on their age and gender. This research highlights the need for the Australian curriculum to introduce specific menstruation education by at least Year 3 or earlier. The curriculum needs to explain what menstruation is, why it happens, the ways it can be managed and how it will begin happening to their peers and that this is normal. In the meantime, we encourage all school staff to work towards building menstrual well-being by becoming comfortable discussing periods with all students, make period products accessible to all year levels in all bathrooms, and advertise free period product locations to students from Year 3. This will enable all children who menstruate to manage their periods in school easily and without shame. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. 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: Schematic diagram of exciton condensation and charge density waves in monolayer HfTe 2 thin films. Credit: Gao et al The condensation of excitons with non-zero momentum can give rise to so-called charge density waves (CDW). This phenomenon can prompt the transition of materials into a fascinating new quantum phase, known as an excitonic insulator. Researchers at Shanghai Jiao Tong University and other institutes recently carried out a study exploring the possibility that this metal-insulator transition could occur in the atomically thin semi-metallic HfTe 2 . Their observations, outlined in Nature Physics, unveiled possible excitonic CDW and metal-insulator transitions in the atomically thin material. "The formation of CDW in materials has various mechanisms (e.g., Fermi surface nesting, lattice distortions, etc.) and exclusion of other CDW formation mechanisms is the key to identifying the existence of an excitonic insulator," Peng Chen, corresponding author of the paper, told Phys.org. "Our research team previously conducted a series of studies on two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides including TiSe 2 and ZrTe 2 to explore this novel phenomenon. Unfortunately, lattice distortion is still evidenced in the calculated phonon dispersions, although it might not be the main driving force in these materials." Building on their previous works, the researchers set out to probe the existence of CDW and a metal-insulator transition in thin films of another material, namely HfTe 2 . After successfully observing both these phenomena, they performed phonon calculations to validate their observations. Phase diagram of the transition temperature of HfTe 2 thin films with varying carrier concentrations. Credit: Gao et al These calculations showed that single-layer HfTe 2 does not exhibit structural instability. In addition, Raman and X-ray diffraction measurements did not unveil any significant lattice distortions, thus providing strong evidence for the electronic origin of the metal-insulator transition in single-layer HfTe 2 . "A notable feature of exciton condensation is the sensitivity to carrier concentration near the Fermi surface," Peng explained. "A small number of carriers and balanced concentration of both n-type and p-type carriers can in principle benefit the exciton condensation. We found that a small amount of n-type doping significantly increased the transition temperature of single-layer HfTe 2 , which is different from other types of transition mechanism like Peierls-type CDW." The recent findings gathered by Peng and his researchers suggest that atomically thin HfTe 2 could be the first known excitonic insulator in a natural solid with a purely electronic transition origin. The researchers have so far validated their results via various calculations and analyses. ARPES spectra of HfTe 2 thin films with different thicknesses and experimental evidence of lattice stability in monolayer films. Credit: Gao et al "By lowering the material dimensionality, the screening effects around the Fermi level can be reduced which benefits the exciton condensation," Peng said. "We successfully prepared single-layer and multi-layer HfTe 2 thin films by molecular beam epitaxy. Angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy measurements revealed a metal-insulator transition when the thickness was less than three layers. The valence band top formed a flat band at low temperatures, opening a gap near the Fermi surface. Additionally, folded bands appeared near the point, a typical feature of CDW formation." The new excitonic insulator uncovered by this research team could lay the foundation for additional studies focusing on exotic quantum effects deriving from interaction between excitonic insulating states and other orderings (e.g., topology and spin-correlated states). In their future work, Peng and his colleagues plan to examine the quantum insulator phase they observed further, to better understand its underlying physics. "Unlike traditional Cooper pairs in superconductors, excitons have a larger binding energy, making them conducive to condensation at higher temperatures," Peng added. "Therefore, the study of excitonic insulators is of great importance for understanding phenomena such as high-temperature superconductivity and superfluidity. As the formation of exciton is very sensitive to the number of carriers and band gap, external stimuli such as electric gating or strain can be used to delicately control the carrier concentration or band structure and thus the order parameter of the electron-hole coherence." More information: Qiang Gao et al, Observation of possible excitonic charge density waves and metalinsulator transitions in atomically thin semimetals, Nature Physics (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41567-023-02349-0 Journal information: Nature Physics 2024 Science X Network This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain ]On 28 October 2003, Barcelona became the backdrop for a tragic incident that would reverberate across the Spanish port city and beyond. Leaving his school that Tuesday afternoon, 15-year-old Ronny Tapias was shot dead by a Barcelona gang that mistakenly identified him as a member of a rival clan. Warring factions The murder of Tapias, who was originally from Colombia, sparked a public outcry. Concerns grew about threats posed by the city's gangs and the impact of immigration from Latin America, where both clans involved in the Barcelona feud originated. "It created a real moral panic fueled by extensive media coverage," said Carles Feixa, a professor of social anthropology at Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona. Feixa was instrumental in shaping the city's response to the incident through a pioneering program to tackle gang violence by pursuing mediation rather than a crackdown. The programknown as the "Barcelona Model"became the basis of a research project that received EU funding to examine the international dimension of gangs in the 21st century and the role of mediation in tackling violence. Feixa led the project, which ran for five and a half years until mid-2023 and was called TRANSGANG. Musical touch Barcelona's response to the murder included bringing together the city government, the police andcruciallyfactions from the two warring gangs. Music was the means to an initial dialogue between both clans: a joint rap festival, according to Feixa. Then came the establishment of youth associations that gave the young people involved a space of their own and opportunities for general training in matters such as life skills and conflict resolution. "It opened doors and we got to know each other," said a former Barcelona-based gang leader named "King Manaba," who became involved in the mediation process that followed the death of Tapias. Before long, violence between the two feuding gangs had declined. Manaba went on to work with Feixa under TRANSGANG, seeking lessons from Barcelona as well as from the Moroccan city of Rabat and Medellin in Colombia where gang mediations had also proved successful. Young people who enter gangs usually do so to escape from social-economic troubles and to win peer recognition, according to Feixa, who said these factors make mediation a more effective approach than repression. "Through mediation they consider themselves as people with something to contribute," he said. "It is possible to redirect gangs in a more prosocial way. Mediations are critical for promoting a more positive and inclusive future for young people across the globe." Gangs have been a growing phenomenon for more than a century, are now present in most societies around the world and often operate across national borders. As public awareness of the prevalence of gangs has grown, so too has the need to refine policy approaches. Lessons learned TRANSGANG examined the evolution of transnational gangs and compared the Barcelona, Rabat and Medellin approaches with more punitive responses to gangs elsewhere in Europe, Africa and the Americas. The project found that heavy-handed and exclusionary policies created negative public perceptions of gangs and could compound socio-economic troubles. "When the only way to approach gangs is through the police or prison, this not only suppresses gangs but transforms gangs into criminal organizations," said Feixa. "When we attack gangs, the outcome is that gangs become a problem with no solution." The project found that, in cases where mediation was pursued, public opinion was more nuanced, social cohesion was stronger and crime was reduced. Insights from the project are now informing approaches to gangs in other cities in Spain, in urban centers in Italy and Sweden and internationally through the United Nations Children's Fund, or UNICEF. Feixa himself is preparing a book of gang members' life stories called "Young Lives Matter." Gang guest Dennis Rodgers, a professor of anthropology at the Center on Conflict, Development and Peacebuilding of the Geneva Graduate Institute in Switzerland, also believes a fresh attitude is needed for dealing with gangs. And like Feixa, Rodgers has taken a hands-on approach to the challenge. Rodgers has researched gangs since he was assaulted by one while in Nicaragua during the 1990s. Embracing the principle that ''if you can't beat them, join them'' as well as the possibility for unique research access, he then embedded himself in a Nicaraguan gang. Initially he was embedded in it for a full year. In the ensuing years until 2020, he returned to Nicaragua numerous times for stays of up to three months with the gang. Rodgers said these experiences have focused his attention on an important worldwide phenomenon that can take on different local guises. "Gangs are global," he said. "At the same time, they are highly variable and volatile and there is a unique social dynamism to them." Gangs can peter out after months or years, evolve into criminal entities or even transform themselves into more cultural or economic organizations, according to Rodgers. But he said little is known about the reasons that one path is taken over another. Rodgers leads a separate project into gangs. Called GANGS, the project runs for five and a half years until mid-2024 and has been examining the ways that gangs emerge, operate and develop. The researchers have investigated gangs in cities including Marseille in France, Naples in Italy and Algeciras in Spainas well as urban centers in Nicaragua and South Africawhere gang violence has mushroomed since the 1990s. Unconventional wisdom One of the project's overall conclusions so far is that gangs are fundamentally embedded social institutions. Another conclusion is that gang membership can lead to a range of long-term outcomes, not all of which are negative, both for individuals and for local communities. These reflect broader social factors in that much of the violence associated with gangs springs from the impact on them of external perceptions and interventions, according to Rodgers. In this respect, the team is challenging some traditional public perceptions of gangs and their effects on society. For example in Marseille, which is widely regarded as the epicenter of gang violence in France, the researchers discovered from a survey they conducted that most local households had more immediate concerns including about housing, health, education and employment. Rodgers cautioned against 'stereotypical representations' of gangs and their supposed violent ways, saying oversimplified views increase the risk of a counterproductive policy response. "They can lead to the authorities acting on the city in a particular way and not seeing the real problem," he said. Rodgers said that, in Marseille, the stigmatization of gang-affected neighborhoods has led to heavy-handed forms of policing, exclusive urban development and a reduction in public investment, particularly in education infrastructure. Gangster turned poet For Rodgers, the complex nature of gangs and the ability of their members to change course is epitomized by a Sierra Leonean former gang leader named Yusuf Kamara. During the decade-long Sierra Leone civil war that lasted until 2002, Kamara left his rural village at 16 to try his luck in the country's capital, Freetown. That's where he joined a feared local gang and became its boss. Then one day in 2017, after overhearing a conversation between friends enrolled in a poetry course, Kamara discovered a new passion. He began writing poetry on his mobile phone and sharing the verses online via YouTube. Supported by local arts groups, Kamara has since gone on to make a name for himself, even entering prestigious international poetry competitions. He calls himself ''Gaz the Paper Poet'". Kamara has also founded an organizationSlums to Careerthat helps young people surviving on the street in Sierra Leone change their lives. His story was collected by a GANGS team member named Dr. Kieran Mitton from King's College London and, along with those of 31 other current and former gang members from around the world, will be part of a forthcoming book from the project aimed at both the general public and an academic audience. "I was eager to set out my story," Kamara said for the planned book. "If I change 10 people, I know I've changed a generation." More information: TRANSGANG GANGS 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: Thursday's volcanic eruption in Iceland. Icelanders were working Friday to get hot water supplies fixed in thousands of houses a day after a third volcanic eruption in two months, as experts said the eruption seemed to be ending. Repairs on the networkwhich is also a source of heatingwent on overnight in temperatures as low as minus 14 degrees Celsius (6.8 degrees Fahrenheit), utility company HS Orka said. The lava flow that destroyed the pipes the previous day had made it difficult for the repair teams to gain access, it added on its website. Experts at the Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO) however said Friday that volcanic activity was significantly down from the previous day's eruption. "No eruptive activity was observed in a drone-flight over the eruptive site carried out at noon (GMT) today," the IMO said in a statement. "This suggests that the eruption is ending. Volcanic tremor is no longer being detected on seismic sensors," it added. An estimated 15 million cubic meters of lava flowed out in the first seven hours of the eruption, early Thursday, it said. Hot-water heating cut The lava spewed out from a new volcanic fissure on Iceland's Reykjanes peninsula in the country's southwest. It cut the supply of hot water, which is also used to heat houses, in the southern part of the peninsula, known as Sudurnes, home to some 28,000 inhabitants. Dramatic images showed lava flowing over a road leading to Iceland's famed Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, which had been evacuated, and the flow also crossed over a key water pipe. "The plan is to fix the problem hopefully in the next few hours," Hjordis Gudmundsdottir, spokeswoman for Iceland's Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management, told AFP Friday. "It will take a few hours to put the hot water back in the system." In the meantime, schools, public pools and sport facilities in the region were closed on Friday, she added. Electricity is still working, but the authorities are urging people in the region to limit consumption. This was the third eruption since December, in the same area as two previous ones, on December 18 and the second on January 14, near the fishing village of Grindavik. The 4,000 residents of Grindavik had to be evacuated on November 11 after hundreds of earthquakes damaged buildings and opened up huge cracks in roads, shrouding the village's future in doubt. The eruptions were some 40 kilometers southwest of the capital Reykjavik. 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: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Supporters of wetland legislation approved 6 Feb. by the Indiana legislature say the regulations are fair to residents, property owners, agriculture and developers while those against it say the state has already weakened wetland protections and this will only serve to damage sensitive ecosystems, increase flooding and decrease water quality. Now it will be up to Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb whether he will sign the controversial bill into law. The legislation was introduced by GOP state Sen. Rick Neimeyer, who said it pertains to state wetlands only, not federal. It takes some of the classifications and changes those that do not meet the definition of isolated wetlands. He said IDEM and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources will be responsible for reviewing and deciding whether a specific wetland can be declassified. The process will be transparent and the agencies will have to explain their decisions. Niemeyer said the legislation is necessary because classifying some of these "wet holes" that do not meet the definition of isolated wetlands is unfair to property owners. Living in south Lake County he has always had a concern about flooding but does not believe the legislation will have that big of an effect on flooding. Still, he said, like others he will be watching what happens if the measure becomes law. Niemeyer said with his experience on the Lake County Plan Commission and drainage board, he worked with the bill and thinks it is where it needs to be to be fair to all parties. "I understand the issues on both sides," Niemeyer said. State Sen. Dan Dernulc was among a group of eight Republicans to break rank and vote against the measure when it came before the Senate. "I personally do not like the changes to the classes," Dernulc said. He describes himself as "a bit of an environmentalist" and would prefer to keep things the way they are. Dernulc said his is still for development. "We have to do it with the way the good Lord made it," Dernulc said. Organizations like Audubon Great Lakes are urging Holcomb to veto the legislation. "Two years ago, lawmakers rolled back protections for more than half of Indiana's wetlands. Yesterday, the Indiana Legislature passed a bill that could leave more vital wetlands out to dry. Despite its fast track through the legislature, HB 1383 has faced growing opposition from Hoosiers and conservation groups. Yesterday's Senate vote demonstrated a lack of consensus among lawmakers. Governor Holcomb can protect Indiana's natural resources by vetoing this problematic bill," the statement read. Meanwhile, organizations like the Indiana Builders Association have come out in support. "We support clearly defined isolated wetlands classifications to provide regulatory relief for property owners and developers while ensuring protection of high-quality isolated wetlands," according to the IBA website. "In 2021, the Indiana General Assembly enacted legislation that protects high-quality isolated wetlands while reducing the regulatory costs and permitting requirements on low-quality Class I isolated wetlands in Indiana," it continued. "In the years since the law was passed, property owners and environmental consultants who conduct wetland delineations have found that the State Regulated Wetland Class Determination Worksheet utilized by the Indiana Dept. of Environmental Management (IDEM) presented some implementation challenges as it related to the intent of SEA 389 and the classification of isolated wetlands in the state," the statement read. Lake County Surveyor Bill Emerson Jr. said losing any wetlands will increase flooding and decrease water quality. "I view wetlands as a public resource just like our other waterways that need to be protected. I'm hoping our governor feels the same way," Emerson said. Emerson was among those opposed to the legislation who spoke out against it in 2023. "Changing those classifications means that more ecologically important wetlands will be categorized in a way they will not be protected," Emerson said. He said the state already has reduced protections for wetlands quite a bit. "Once they are gone, they're gone. They are expensive to recreate," Emerson said. Niemeyer said the legislation also contemplates recreating some wetlands lost to development through a credit system. Developers will pay credits to fill a wetland that can be used to create other wetlands or increase an existing wetland. "It's a two-way street. Everybody needs to be working together," Niemeyer said. 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: Panorama of the Bulqize ophiolite as seen from Batra's valley in Albania. Mining activity can be seen in the valley. Credit: L. Truche A team of geologists affiliated with several institutions in France, working with a pair of colleagues from Albania, has measured the largest natural flow of hydrogen ever in an Albanian chromium mine. In their study, reported in the journal Science, the group measured hydrogen gas bubbling up through liquid pools in the mine. Hydrogen gas is colorless, odorless and extremely flammable. It has often been used as a fuel source. More recently, it has been considered as an alternative to carbon-based fuels because burning it does not produce any greenhouse gases. Currently, hydrogen is obtained by capture it as it is released during natural gas extractionit can also be produced through a variety of processes, many of which involve releasing greenhouse gases. A better approach, the researchers suggest, would be to tap natural hydrogen reserves, such as the one beneath the Bulqize mine in Albania. Video of vigorous degassing occurring in a water draining pool located 1,000 m below the surface inside a mine gallery. This impressive manifestation of gas migration turns this draining pool into a breathtaking 30 m2 jacuzzi bubbling with almost pure H 2 . Credit: F-V Donze and L. Truche Prior research has shown that a large hydrogen reservoir lies beneath the mine in Albania, and it originated as a portion of the Earth's crust shifted millions of years ago, pushing it up and onto the crust next to it. The resulting stretch of land formed a type of rocky belt known as an ophiolite. Several such ophiolites have been discovered around the world, most of which are believed to house hydrogen reservoirs. In this new study, the researchers responded to reports of large amounts of hydrogen seeping through vents and bubbling up in drainage pools in the mine; several explosions have been reported. They measured the seepage at multiple sites in the mine and used the results to produce an estimate of the total amount of hydrogen escapingtheir numbers indicated that approximately 200 metric tons escape the mine every year, making it the largest natural flow ever documented. The team of scientists exploring the mine galleries under the guidance of local miners. The team of scientists monitoring hydrogen concentration in the air of a mine gallery, and sampling gas seeping in the water draining stream. This gallery is located 1,000 m below the surface. Credit: F-V. Donze The research team concludes that new technology is required to take advantage of such reservoirs in order to capture vast amounts of hydrogen in a clean and economical way, perhaps reducing reliance on carbon-based fuels. More information: Laurent Truche et al, A deep reservoir for hydrogen drives intense degassing in the Bulqize ophiolite, Science (2024). DOI: 10.1126/science.adk9099 Journal information: Science 2024 Science X Network This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: The Intuitive Machines payload, which will contain materials for ROLSES, shown on the lunar surface in an illustration. Intuitive Machines, Inc. For the first time since 1972, NASA is putting science experiments on the moon in 2024. And thanks to new technologies and public-private partnerships, these projects will open up new realms of scientific possibility. As parts of several projects launching this year, teams of scientists, including myself, will conduct radio astronomy from the south pole and the far side of the moon. NASA's commercial lunar payload services program, or CLPS, will use uncrewed landers to conduct NASA's first science experiments from the moon in over 50 years. The CLPS program differs from past space programs. Rather than NASA building the landers and operating the program, commercial companies will do so in a public-private partnership. NASA identified about a dozen companies to serve as vendors for landers that will go to the moon. NASA buys space on these landers for science payloads to fly to the moon, and the companies design, build, and insure the landers, as well as contract with rocket companies for the launches. Unlike in the past, NASA is one of the customers and not the sole driver. CLPS launches The first two CLPS payloads are scheduled to launch during the first two months of 2024. There's the Astrobotics payload, which launched Jan. 8 before experiencing a fuel issue that cut its journey to the moon short. Next, there's the Intuitive Machines payload, with a launch scheduled for mid-February. NASA has also planned a few additional landingsabout two or three per yearfor each of the next few years. I'm a radio astronomer and co-investigator on NASA's ROLSES program, otherwise known as Radiowave Observations at the Lunar Surface of the photoElectron Sheath. ROLSES was built by the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center and is led by Natchimuthuk Gopalswamy. The ROLSES instrument will launch with Intuitive Machines in February. Between ROLSES and another mission scheduled for the lunar far side in two years, LuSEE-Night, our teams will land NASA's first two radio telescopes on the moon by 2026. Radio telescopes on the moon The moonparticularly the far side of the moonis an ideal place to do radio astronomy and study signals from extraterrestrial objects such as the sun and the Milky Way galaxy. On Earth, the ionosphere, which contains Earth's magnetic field, distorts and absorbs radio signals below the FM band. These signals might get scrambled or may not even make it to the surface of the Earth. CLPS will send science payloads to the Moon in conjunction with the Artemis programs crewed missions. On Earth, there are also TV signals, satellite broadcasts and defense radar systems making noise. To do higher sensitivity observations, you have to go into space, away from Earth. The moon is what scientists call tidally locked. One side of the moon is always facing the Earththe "man in the moon" sideand the other side, the far side, always faces away from the Earth. The moon has no ionosphere, and with about 2,000 miles of rock between the Earth and the far side of the moon, there's no interference. It's radio quiet. For our first mission with ROLSES, launching in February 2024, we will collect data about environmental conditions on the moon near its south pole. On the moon's surface, solar wind directly strikes the lunar surface and creates a charged gas, called a plasma. Electrons lift off the negatively charged surface to form a highly ionized gas. This doesn't happen on Earth because the magnetic field deflects the solar wind. But there's no global magnetic field on the moon. With a low frequency radio telescope like ROLSES, we'll be able to measure that plasma for the first time, which could help scientists figure out how to keep astronauts safe on the moon. When astronauts walk around on the surface of the moon, they'll pick up different charges. It's like walking across the carpet with your socks onwhen you reach for a doorknob, a spark can come out of your finger. The same kind of discharge happens on the moon from the charged gas, but it's potentially more harmful to astronauts. Solar and exoplanet radio emissions Our team is also going to use ROLSES to look at the sun. The sun's surface releases shock waves that send out highly energetic particles and low radio frequency emissions. We'll use the radio telescopes to measure these emissions and to see bursts of low-frequency radio waves from shock waves within the solar wind. We're also going to examine the Earth from the surface of the moon and use that process as a template for looking at radio emissions from exoplanets that may harbor life in other star systems. Magnetic fields are important for life because they shield the planet's surface from the solar/stellar wind. LuSEE-Night, shown with its four antennas that will detect radio waves. Credit: Firefly Aerospace In the future, our team hopes to use specialized arrays of antennas on the far side of the moon to observe nearby stellar systems that are known to have exoplanets. If we detect the same kind of radio emissions that come from Earth, this will tell us that the planet has a magnetic field. And we can measure the strength of the magnetic field to figure out whether it's strong enough to shield life. Cosmology on the moon The Lunar Surface Electromagnetic Experiment at Night, or LuSEE-Night, will fly in early 2026 to the far side of the moon. LuSEE-Night marks scientists' first attempt to do cosmology on the moon. LuSEE-Night is a novel collaboration between NASA and the Department of Energy. Data will be sent back to Earth using a communications satellite in lunar orbit, Lunar Pathfinder, which is funded by the European Space Agency. Since the far side of the moon is uniquely radio quiet, it's the best place to do cosmological observations. During the two weeks of lunar night that happen every 14 days, there's no emission coming from the sun, and there's no ionosphere. We hope to study an unexplored part of the early universe called the dark ages. The dark ages refer to before and just after the formation of the very first stars and galaxies in the universe, which is beyond what the James Webb Space Telescope can study. During the dark ages, the universe was less than 100 million years oldtoday the universe is 13.7 billion years old. The universe was full of hydrogen during the dark ages. That hydrogen radiates through the universe at low radio frequencies, and when new stars turn on, they ionize the hydrogen, producing a radio signature in the spectrum. Our team hopes to measure that signal and learn about how the earliest stars and galaxies in the universe formed. There's also a lot of potential new physics that we can study in this last unexplored cosmological epoch in the universe. We will investigate the nature of dark matter and early dark energy and test our fundamental models of physics and cosmology in an unexplored age. That process is going to start in 2026 with the LuSEE-Night mission, which is both a fundamental physics experiment and a cosmology experiment. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. 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: Seagrass distribution across continental Europe. The distribution data is from the UN environment Programme world conservation monitoring Centre (UNEP-WCMC) and Helsinki commission (HELCOM). Credit: PLANTS, PEOPLE, PLANET (2024). DOI: 10.1002/ppp3.10486 In a new study, an international team of academics have identified the most important questions that must be answered in order to advance the conservation and restoration of seagrass meadows in Europe. Seagrasses play a vital role in our oceans by storing carbon in the seabed, enhancing biodiversity, filtering water, and reducing coastal erosion, but despite their ecological significance, they have faced widespread decline across the continent. Renewed initiatives are underway to revive these meadows, however, substantial knowledge gaps hinder progress. In recognition of this, a diverse panel of 35 scientists from 18 European nations have come together to help prioritize urgent research needs amid limited research funds. Led by Dr. Richard Unsworth of Swansea University and Dr. Lina Mtwana Nordlund of Uppsala University, researchers collected almost 300 questions submitted by seagrass experts from European universities, government bodies, industry and environmental non-governmental organizations. From this, the panel selected the top 100 questions based on importance. Published as part of a study in Plants, People, Planet, the questions demonstrate how marine scientists across Europe see the fight against climate change and biodiversity loss within our oceans as much as on land. Dr. Unsworth, Chief Scientific Officer of the marine conservation charity Project Seagrass, said, "Our paper emphasizes the need to increasingly focus marine research efforts on conservation and restoration, which is vital for identifying applied solutions that can be developed to reverse the degraded state of our European coastal seas." It also highlights regional disparities in science funding, underscoring the need for more collaborative and interdisciplinary seagrass research efforts. Dr. Nordlund said, "We as a research community believe that answering these 100 priority questions will place European seagrasses on a positive trajectory of recovery and accelerate seagrass conservation." Moreover, the study shows how an inclusive, international exercise can be used to identify diverse research questions. Lead panelist Dr. Sieglind Wallner-Hahn of Uppsala University said, "One of the most significant steps of this study is the high level of inclusivity of partners from all corners of continental Europe; a challenge is ensuring that such partners can play a part in answering these questions and securing a future for their local seagrass meadows." Panelist Professor Jim Bull of Swansea University added, "My work is solution-driven and needs to directly address the challenges marine ecologists and conservationists face across Europe. A strength of these questions is their interdisciplinary content and an acceptance of the need to bring scientists from diverse backgrounds together to find the knowledge to bring our European seas back to life." More information: Lina Mtwana Nordlund et al, One hundred priority questions for advancing seagrass conservation in Europe, Plants, People, Planet (2024). DOI: 10.1002/ppp3.10486 Journal information: Plants, People, Planet This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Artistic representation of an exoplanet whose water ice on the surface is increasingly vaporizing and forming an atmosphere during its approach to the central star of the planetary system. This process increases the measured planetary radius compared to the value the planet would have at its place of origin. Credit: Thomas Muller (MPIA) Ordinarily, planets in evolved planetary systems, such as the solar system, follow stable orbits around their central star. However, many indications suggest that some planets might depart from their birthplaces during their early evolution by migrating inward or outward. This planetary migration might also explain an observation that has puzzled researchers for several years: the relatively low number of exoplanets with sizes about twice as large as Earth, known as the radius valley or gap. Conversely, there are many exoplanets smaller and larger than this size. "Six years ago, a reanalysis of data from the Kepler space telescope revealed a shortage of exoplanets with sizes around two Earth radii," explains Remo Burn, an exoplanet researcher at the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy (MPIA) in Heidelberg. He is the lead author of the article reporting the findings outlined in this article, now published in Nature Astronomy. Where does the radius valley come from? "In fact, welike other research groupspredicted based on our calculations, even before this observation, that such a gap must exist," explains co-author Christoph Mordasini, a member of the National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) PlanetS. He heads the Division of Space Research and Planetary Sciences at the University of Bern. This prediction originated during his tenure as a scientist at MPIA, which has been jointly researching this field with the University of Bern for many years. The most commonly suggested mechanism to explain the emergence of such a radius valley is that planets might lose a part of their original atmosphere due to the irradiation from the central star, especially volatile gases like hydrogen and helium. "However, this explanation neglects the influence of planetary migration," Burn clarifies. It has been established for about 40 years that under certain conditions, planets can move inward and outward through planetary systems over time. How effective this migration is and to what extent it influences the development of planetary systems impacts its contribution to forming the radius valley. Enigmatic sub-Neptunes Two different types of exoplanets inhabit the size range surrounding the gap. On one hand, there are rocky planets, which can be more massive than Earth and are hence called super-Earths. On the other hand, astronomers are increasingly discovering so-called sub-Neptunes (also mini-Neptunes) in distant planetary systems, which are, on average, slightly larger than the super-Earths. "However, we do not have this class of exoplanets in the solar system," Burn points out. "That's why, even today, we're not exactly sure about their structure and composition." Still, astronomers broadly agree that these planets possess significantly more extended atmospheres than rocky planets. Consequently, understanding how these sub-Neptunes' characteristics contribute to the radius gap has been uncertain. Could the gap even suggest that these two types of worlds form differently? The number of exoplanets decreases between 1.6 and 2.2, producing a pronounced valley in distribution. Instead, there are more planets present with sizes around 1.4 and 2.4 Earth radii. The latest simulations, which for the first time take realistic properties of water into account, indicate that icy planets that migrate into the interior of planetary systems form thick atmospheres of water vapor. It makes them appear larger than they would be at their place of origin. These produce the peak at around 2.4 Earth radii. At the same time, smaller rocky planets lose part of their original gas envelope over time, causing their measured radius to shrink and thus contributing to the accumulation at around 1.4 Earth radii. Credit: R. Burn, C. Mordasini / MPIA Wandering ice planets "Based on simulations we already published in 2020, the latest results indicate and confirm that instead, the evolution of sub-Neptunes after their birth significantly contributes to the observed radius valley," concludes Julia Venturini from Geneva University. She is a member of the PlanetS collaboration and led the 2020 study. In the icy regions of their birthplaces, where planets receive little warming radiation from the star, the sub-Neptunes should indeed have sizes missing from the observed distribution. As these presumably icy planets migrate closer to the star, the ice thaws, eventually forming a thick water vapor atmosphere. This process results in a shift in planet radii to larger values. After all, the observations employed to measure planetary radii cannot differentiate whether the determined size is due to the solid part of the planet alone or an additional dense atmosphere. At the same time, as already suggested in the previous picture, rocky planets "shrink" by losing their atmosphere. Overall, both mechanisms produce a lack of planets with sizes around two Earth radii. Physical computer models simulating planetary systems "The theoretical research of the Bern-Heidelberg group has already significantly advanced our understanding of the formation and composition of planetary systems in the past," explains MPIA Director Thomas Henning. "The current study is, therefore, the result of many years of joint preparatory work and constant improvements to the physical models." The latest results stem from calculations of physical models that trace planet formation and subsequent evolution. They encompass processes in the gas and dust disks surrounding young stars that give rise to new planets. These models include the emergence of atmospheres, the mixing of different gases, and radial migration. "Central to this study were the properties of water at pressures and temperatures occurring inside planets and their atmospheres," explains Burn. Understanding how water behaves over a wide range of pressures and temperatures is crucial for simulations. This knowledge has been of sufficient quality only in recent years. It is this component that permits realistic calculation of the sub-Neptunes' behavior, hence explaining the manifestation of extensive atmospheres in warmer regions. "It's remarkable how, as in this case, physical properties on molecular levels influence large-scale astronomical processes such as the formation of planetary atmospheres," Henning adds. "If we were to expand our results to cooler regions, where water is liquid, this might suggest the existence of water worlds with deep oceans," Mordasini says. "Such planets could potentially host life and would be relatively straightforward targets for searching for biomarkers, thanks to their size." Further work ahead However, the current work is just an important milestone. Although the simulated size distribution closely matches the observed one, and the radius gap is in the right place, the details still have some inconsistencies. For instance, too many ice planets end up too close to the central star in the calculations. Nonetheless, researchers do not perceive this circumstance as a disadvantage but hope to learn more about planetary migration in this way. Observations with telescopes like the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) or the under-construction Extremely Large Telescope (ELT) could also assist. They would be capable of determining the composition of planets depending on their size, thus providing a test for the simulations described here. The MPIA scientists involved in this study are Remo Burn and Thomas Henning. Other researchers include Christoph Mordasini (University of Bern, Switzerland [Unibe]), Lokesh Mishra (Universite de Geneve, Switzerland [Unige], and Unibe), Jonas Haldemann (Unibe), Julia Venturini (Unige), and Alexandre Emsenhuber (Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, Germany, and Unibe). The NASA Kepler space telescope searched for planets around other stars between 2009 and 2018 and discovered thousands of new exoplanets during its operation. It utilized the transit method: When a planet's orbit is inclined in a way that the plane lies within the telescope's line of sight, planets periodically block part of the star's light during their orbit. This periodic fluctuation in the star's brightness enables an indirect detection of the planet and determination of its radius. More information: A radius valley between migrated steam worlds and evaporated rocky cores, Nature Astronomy (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41550-023-02183-7 Journal information: Nature Astronomy By Prince J. Musa in Kenema The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary School Education (MBSSE) has shut down the Emmanuel Modern Primary School in Kenema after one of the pupils fell to her death from the top floor of the school building. Speaking at a meeting held on 27th September 2023 with stakeholders in the education sector including the Human Rights Commission, the Director of School Quality Assurance and Human Resource Management at (MBSSE), Francess Kamara said the decision was taken following an investigation into the death of a nine-year-old pupil who died after falling off the schools two-storey building. Emmanuel Modern Primary School is an illegal school the Director said. She explained that the school flouted the education policy by not getting the school registered. She added that as per policy, every school should be accorded permission by the council before operating, stating that Emmanuel school was never given permission to operate. She stated that the school had no attendance register for pupils and teachers, which meant that the teachers never registered, and there were no qualified teachers. The Director stated that such an action contravenes the education policy. Kamara stated that the school environment is not conducive for children. Highlighting some of the reasons why a school should not operate in such an environment, Kamara said the school lacked security and space for the kids to play, with the environment surrounded by dwelling houses amongst other things. She stressed that such an environment is not child-friendly; adding that the school authorities went contrary to the ministrys guideline on conditions proprietors must meet before the ministry approves a place for learning. Kamara recommended that the ministry takes details of the pupils who were attending the affected school in order to get them incorporated into other schools that are closer to their homes. She revealed that they have started engaging some nearby schools, and have formed a committee that will ensure the kids do not miss out on school. The Director urged parents to visit a school and monitor its environment to know whether their childrens lives will be in a safe environment before they are enrolled. She admitted that the ministry has a lot to do, explaining that it is their responsibility to locate and visit every school do monitoring. Kamara stated that they will ensure they try to prevent a reoccurrence of such. The Regional Human Rights Officer East at the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone Vandi Saidu expressed disappointment at the school authorities and the MBSSE in Kenema for being negligent and allowing a school to operate in such an environment. Saidu stated that the ministry has a lot of work to do, stating that there are many schools across the countrythat operate in such risky environments. Aminata Gallia aged 9 and a Class Four pupil accidentally plunged to her death this September after she fell off a rail less window on the top of her school building, sparking nationwide outrage. Copyright 2023 Politico (29/09/23) A hydropower company has won a $2.6 million grant to upgrade its power plant on the Batten Kill River in Greenwich. U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer (D) made the announcement earlier this week. Schumers office said the funding comes from the U.S. Department of Energys Hydroelectric Incentives Program as part of the bipartisan infrastructure and jobs law passed last year. The win for Gravity Renewables of Boulder Colorado, applies to the companys Dahowa Hydroelectric Project on Mill Road in Greenwich. The grant was part of nearly $11 million being spent outside New York City, Schumers office said in a statement. Its very, very good news that our tax dollars are coming back to Greenwich. The two plants, I think, are in need of these state-of-the-art upgrades. Weve had problems at one of the plants where it clogs up with debris. When it clogs up like that the water level gets well below and it appears this is going to fix that, Greenwich Supervisor Jim Nolan told The Post-Star. According to Schumers office, the plant will get a controls package upgrade, tailwater gate restoration, a transformer replacement, an automated trash rake system, and pond management and intake improvements. From the North Country to the Hudson Valley, hydropower is a critical renewable energy source for communities along our many waterways from the Wallkill to the Seneca River, and this funding will make long overdue improvements to these facilities and help restore wildlife and surrounding environments, all while creating good paying jobs in Upstate NY and fighting climate change, Senator Schumer said. Nolan said he is looking forward to the improvements. I think these upgrades will be a positive thing for Greenwich and also for the Batten Kill River. Thats a beautiful river that we all enjoy here in Greenwichthe upgrades I think will keep the river cleaner and flowing more smoothly, Nolan said. Specifically, the $10,858,000 in federal funding will go towards eight projects across Upstate New York that will upgrade generating units, install trash racks and rake systems, and automation systems to increase the reliability and efficiency of power production. The Dahowa facility started operation in 1991 and is located on the Batten Kill River. Officials with Gravity Renewables could not be reached in time for publication. Its very, very good news that our tax dollars are coming back to Greenwich. Jim Nolan From Warren County District Attorneys Office: A Lake Luzerne man has pleaded guilty to shaking a baby, causing a severe head injury, according to Warren County DA Jason Carusone. Robert Rivers, 36, pleaded guilty on Tuesday, Feb. 6 to reckless assault of a child for shaking an infant in his care, causing a serious head injury that required extensive hospitalization. Rivers is expected to receive a sentence of three-and-a-half years in state prison, to be followed by three years of post-release supervision. An order of protection bars him from having contact with the child. Carusone thanked the New York State Police for their thorough investigation that led to the conviction of Rivers. Warren County Judge Robert Smith remanded Rivers to Warren County Jail without bail pending sentencing on Wednesday, Feb. 21, at 9:30 a.m. CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE The driver who killed two people in a crash during an unsanctioned car rally in Wildwood in 2022 was sentenced to 25 years in prison Thursday afternoon as part of a plea deal. Gerald White, 38, of Pittsburgh, pleaded guilty to two counts of aggravated manslaughter and two counts of aggravated assault Nov. 28 in the deaths of Timothy Ogden and Lindsay Weakland. Cape May County Superior Court Judge J. Christopher Gibson sentenced White in front of an emotional courtroom. Haley Weakland, Lindsays sister, said getting through everyday life has been a struggle since her sisters death. He (White) not only took Lindsay from us that night, he took everything from us, Weakland said. Our smiles, our laughter, goals, dreams, health and, most of all, our purpose. Life isnt supposed to be this paralyzing. I can no longer go in her bedroom and talk to her, laugh with her or ask her for advice. Im met with silence and darkness. Living a life without Lindsay and everything that made her who she was is such agony. For the rest of my life, Ill be waiting and hoping for her to walk through that door. White apologized to the victims families prior to being sentenced. Also before the sentencing, Whites attorney, Alfonso Gambone, asked that his client be sentenced to 15 years in prison. White admitted that he was driving under the influence and fleeing the scene of a prior accident in a 2003 Infiniti when he struck a 2014 Honda Civic and two pedestrians at Burk and Atlantic avenues at 9:36 p.m. Sept. 24, 2022. The accident occurred during the H2oi car rally, which brought thousands of people to the area and led to multiple arrests and accidents throughout Wildwood, police said at the time. The rally was not approved by city officials. Driver who caused deadly crash in Wildwood H2oi car rally to be sentenced Thursday The driver accused of killing two people in a crash during an unsanctioned car rally in Wildwood last year is expected to be sentenced Thursday afternoon to a 25-year prison sentence as part of a plea deal, according to court documents. White attempted to evade law enforcement a second time following the accident but was quickly taken into custody. Officers determined he had a blood alcohol level of 0.197, more than twice the legal limit. A passenger in the Civic, Ogden, 34, of Clayton, Gloucester County, and a pedestrian, Weakland, 18, of Carlisle, Pennsylvania, were killed as a result. A second occupant in the vehicle and another pedestrian also suffered injuries. Family members of Ogden and Weakland packed the courtroom, wearing memorial T-shirts. One photo of each victim also was placed on the prosecutors table and faced in Whites direction. Michelle Dick, Ogdens mother, said her son was engaged and planned on getting married soon. At 12:01 a.m. Sept. 25, Timothy lost his life and we received a life sentence, life without our son, Dick said. Timothy, our first born son, was a fun-loving child who grew into a kind-hearted, caring man. Now, he and his fiancee, Sarah, wont have the wedding and children they were planning to have. She had her dressed picked out already. Our lives are now changed forever, and were struggling to live this new life without him. Nothing will ever be the same again. White has an extensive criminal record of 31 arrests dating to when he was a juvenile that Gibson took into account when sentencing him. White could have faced 80 years in prison on the charges if convicted at trial and will be required to serve 85% of his 25-year sentence before becoming eligible for parole. The tragic deaths of Lindsay Weakland and Timothy Ogden are heartbreaking losses for their friends, loved ones and family that can never be overcome, Cape May County Prosecutor Jeffrey H. Sutherland said in a statement. I am proud of the work done by the detectives, assistant prosecutors and the Victim Witness Unit in my office and the members of the Wildwood Police Department that made sure justice was done for their families. Anyone considering engaging in an illegal, unsanctioned car rally should be forewarned that it will not be tolerated by law enforcement, and we will use the full force of the law to make certain justice is served. LOWER TOWNSHIP Critics and supporters of a $37.5 million plan for the Higbee Beach Wildlife Management Area, along with the simply curious, crowded the townships meeting hall to learn more and have their say Thursday evening. It was standing room only as representatives of the state Division of Fish and Wildlife outlined the proposal to restore hundreds of acres of marsh to its historic tidal flow and create additional trails and flood protection in the wildlife area. Dave Golden, assistant commissioner of Fish and Wildlife, said the project will improve habitat and allow more people to see wild species up close, while also improving flood protection. It also will mean a wide portion of the wildlife area will be inaccessible until December 2026 as the extensive work continues. Multiple residents had concerns, even those who supported the proposal, with worries about the increased traffic both during the work and from additional visitors after it is completed, and the potential to increase saltwater intrusion that has plagued wells south of the Cape May Canal. A few feared increased flooding, although state officials say the work will have the opposite effect, with the creation of a new berm that will keep tidewater from extending beyond the marsh. Some described the whole project as a waste of money. What would happen if you didnt do any of this, to this land? asked township resident Bryan Peterzak. Its been sitting there for quite a long time now. Why cant you guys ever leave anything alone? What are you trying to prove here? But the area has not been left alone, Golden said. The inlet to Pond Creek has been blocked, and for years, a plant on part of the land extracted magnesite for use in steel production. The plant is now long gone, but the site remains. The project will restore tidal flow to the way the ecosystem operated 150 years ago, Golden said. He said Fish and Wildlife manages hundreds of thousands of acres, most of which remains untouched, at least in part because the division does not have the staff or the resources to do more. Work on Higbee Beach project expected to start in February Access to hundreds of acres of a wildlife management area at the southern tip of New Jersey is expected to be closed until about December 2026 while a $37.5 million ecological restoration project gets underway. This is an area where it makes sense to invest a significant amount of money because the return on that investment will be so large, he said. Plans include restoring the historic tidal flow to a wide, marshy wetland in the site, along with the creation of a seven-foot berm encircling the project area, which will allow for new walking paths and will make sure the project does not increase the flood risk for the surrounding area, state officials said. Previous project descriptions have included the construction of a new interpretive center on Sunset Boulevard, but that is not part of this project. Officials said it is still in the plans, but there is no funding for a new building. Golden said the project has long been in the works, describing it as pushing a boulder up a hill. A lot of work went into making sure the project would work for wildlife and for the public. Matthew Holthaus, an engineer and the project manager, said he has spent about 10 years, a significant portion of his career, working on the Pond Creek project. The mouth of the creek will be widened and former structures that checked the tides will be removed, he said, with the intent of restoring the flow to the area. The site of the former Harbison Walker works will become coastal meadow, Holthaus said, attracting butterflies and other migrating species. Plans call for the removal of the remaining concrete and the demolition of the water tower at the site. The plant opened in 1941 and operated until 1983. The deserted hulk was later demolished after languishing for years behind rusty chainlink. Holthaus said the project has been designed to attract multiple species, and plans call for new birdwatching blinds along a 2.8-mile loop trail, offering more chances to see birds and other wildlife. Most of that trail will be accessible in compliance with the federal Americans with Disabilities Act. Several speakers were concerned about access for hunting and trapping, which will be limited during the project. There will be access to the beach in the summer, although there could be some restrictions around the mouth of the creek at times. Lower Township mayor sees good news in 2024 Lower Township Mayor Frank Sippel predicts a 2024 municipal budget without a tax increase, with township finances riding high on rising property values and a record-setting budget surplus exceeding $9.7 million. Bob Mullock, a former member of the Cape May Point Board of Commissioners, expressed concern for pedestrians and bike riders along Sunset Boulevard as dump trucks begin to deliver material to the site. In the summer, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, the fill deliveries will be limited to five trucks a day, officials said, but in the offseason, that could be 50 trucks a day. The overall amount of material brought in is expected to be about 150,000 cubic yards, with will require more than 10,000 dump trucks worth of material. Trails in the north of the wildlife area will remain open during the project. There was a discrepancy about the project area. The area that will be closed to public access covers 291 acres. Previous information released by the state put that area at 428 acres. The entire area, running from Sunset Boulevard to the Cape May Canal along the beach and well inland, includes more than 1,000 acres encompassing multiple habitats, including forested dune and a freshwater lake. Officials say Daveys Lake will be protected during the project. One neighbor spoke about the potential for increased flooding, appearing unconvinced that the work would reduce flood risk. Others were concerned about the additional traffic. After the project is completed, more tourists will be heading to the site, said one resident at the meeting. Right now, Sunset Boulevard cant handle just sunsets, she said. Golden responded that the speaker was extremely optimistic that the completed project will bring significantly more visitors to the area. Other speakers, including Cape May Mayor Zack Mullock, the son of Bob Mullock, welcomed the multimillion-dollar investment, and suggested the state could also look at putting money into the citys planned new water desalination plant. There were a few light moments, such as when a resident said he walks his dogs in Higbee every day, adding he cleans up after them. That will come to an end, he said. Beached boat burns near Cape May A beached sailboat near Sunset Beach in Lower Township was still smoldering Tuesday morning after an overnight fire. The boat had been on the beach since October. Police said the fire does not appear to be suspicious. Does that mean you wont pick up after them? Golden asked. He added later that dogs are allowed in WMA lands throughout New Jersey, but there are at times requirements that they be leashed. Golden said the area has long been used by beachgoers, birders, anglers, hunters and others, as well as the endangered and migrating species. Right now, theres a lot of harmony with these different uses, he said. The state intends to continue to balance that even as it invites more people to the area. PLEASE BE ADVISED: Soon we will no longer integrate with Facebook for story comments. The commenting option is not going away, however, readers will need to register for a FREE site account to continue sharing their thoughts and feedback on stories. If you already have an account (i.e. current subscribers, posting in obituary guestbooks, for submitting community events), you may use that login, otherwise, you will be prompted to create a new account. Shane Brown Follow Shane Brown 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 Don't mind me. I'm just having an ideological crisis and questioning everything I know to be true. Last week, in this very column, I said, quote: "I am a fan of social media." I use Facebook daily to chat with my friends. I use Twitter daily to try (and mostly fail) to chat with celebrities. I use YouTube daily to pack my brain cells with exciting new knowledge about the world. And then I use TikTok daily to destroy those brain cells in a blaze of glory. Earlier this month, the CEOs of the major social media networks were brought before a Congressional hearing, where they were subject to a good old-fashioned Senate beatdown by politicians eager to lay the blame of cyber-bullying and online harm to children squarely upon their shoulders. As a steadfast fan of social media, I felt bad for them. Look, I get it. There are terrible things that happen on social media. Kids get hurt on social media. Kids get victimized on social media. There are truly awful people out there right now doing truly awful things on social media. I don't for a single second want to minimize the dangers kids face online or disrespect ANYONE whose lives have been impacted by cyber-bullying or worse. It's a horrible problem and it needs to be addressed. I just don't know if we're laying the blame in the right place. Social media is, at its heart, a vehicle for communication. It's a postal service for the new age, a modern way for humans to connect and interact in the world like never before. The problem is that a lot of humans are awful and need to be communicated with as little as possible. But when these terrible people do terrible things, is it the fault of the communication portal itself? People sadly get scammed by malicious phone calls all the time. Do we blame the phone company? If you order something online and they send you a defective product, would you blame UPS? If your kid sneaks a peek at a dirty movie, would you sue the manufacturer of the TV they watched it on? Heck, if some nimrod drinks and drives and crashes into your house, would you drag automakers before Congress? Of course not. They weren't the instigators. And if you... if you... and that's when it hit me while standing in the shower at 7 a.m. I'd run smack into a sticky wicket, and it hurt. By the same logic I just used to defend social media, I'm essentially arguing against gun control. I'm arguing against drug regulations. I'm siding with cigarette manufacturers. Wait, did I just become a libertarian? That can't be right. This wasn't the kind of internal monologue I wanted to be having with a head full of shampoo. I hadn't even had any coffee. Thankfully, I don't have to continue that ideological debate with myself. It was settled later that night, when I came across two things that made me realize social media is, in fact, a horrifying monster that needs to be destroyed at all costs. For one, I discovered the magic and wonder that is... GALACTIVATORS. I don't know what led me to their nook of the internet, other than an unlucky swipe on TikTok. I'm a bit late to the Galactivation party. I found out later they'd already had their fifteen minutes of fame on America's Got Talent, where they were blessedly swept offstage in record time. Thanks to social media, though, they've built a loyal online audience. The Galactivators are two middle-aged yoga instructors who perform improvisational hip-hop jams about Mother Earth and the wonders of the cosmos. And they sound EXACTLY as good as you'd expect two middle-aged yoga instructors rapping about the cosmos to be. It's magically insufferable. Every night, they livestream healing hip-hop chakras from their living room while dressed like refugees from a Las Vegas thrift store managed by blind drag queens. There are Norwegian death metal bands who spend their entire careers trying to fuel their fans into a frenzy of hatred and rage, and none of them do it half as efficiently as watching these two painfully rhyme "Redwood tree" with "galaxy." And yes, they'll play birthday parties. YOU ALL KNOW WHAT TO GET ME NEXT YEAR. If that wasn't bad enough, remember last week's column when I talked about the conspiracy theorists claiming Taylor Swift is trying to rig the next election? Well, thanks to the online homework I did for that, Twitter now assumes I'm some bonkers QAnon enthusiast and has been filling my feed with all manner of fringe nutbags. The most intolerable one I've encountered is an influencer whose every post is vague clickbait designed to rile up ultra-conservatives. This morning, he posted a clip of Taylor Swift's crew walking to the stage to accept the Album of the Year Grammy with the ominous caption, "Isn't Taylor Swift's handler CREEPY??" Except Taylor Swift had no "handler" as she walked onstage. The guy in the clip he's referring to was Jack Antonoff, one of the most famous and recognizable music producers on the planet. He fronts his own band, Bleachers, who I adore. When it comes to pop music, he's something of a genius. A five-second Google search would've told this guy as much. But no, let's just ignorantly accuse him of being an Illuminati puppetmaster controlling the hidden ominous Taylor Swift political agenda. Swell. I expected to see a bunch of comments putting this guy in his place, but instead, the comments were mostly antisemitic hate speech. Wowzers. The Bill of Rights is neat and all, but some people don't deserve the freedom of speech. I'm just hoping all the sane people didn't comment because they don't bother reading his nonsense in the first place. Maybe this guy's entire Twitter following is just fellow morons who spend their days pointlessly instilling fear in one another until they all finally die off. Even after seeing the ignorance, feeling the hate, AND surviving galactivation, I'm still a fan of social media but man, do I detest some of the people that inhabit a good chunk of it. I'm not a proponent of harshly regulating social media, but I'd hear anyone out with a plan on how to regulate stupidity. Congress should hold a hearing. A 50-year-old Rapid City man pleaded not guilty Thursday to seven different charges accusing him of sexually and physically abusing children for several years. The first indictment against Edward Rodriguez dated Jan. 3 charges him with first-degree rape, sexual contact with a child under sixteen, and sexual exploitation of a minor. He allegedly victimized the child from Dec. 30, 2015 to Dec. 30, 2020. At the start of that timeframe, the child was six years old. At the end of it, they were 11 years old. The second indictment against him, also filed on Jan. 3, charges Rodriguez with two counts of aggravated assault domestic violence and two counts of child abuse. The aggravated assault charges come from allegations he strangled the child listed in the first indictment and a second child between Jan. 1, 2019 and Aug. 31, 2022. The child abuse charges accuse him of physically abusing the two children between Aug. 5, 2017 and Aug. 31, 2022 in a way that did not rise to the level of aggravated assault. The children were between the ages of eight and 13 during those time frames. If convicted, Rodriguez could face up to a life sentence and a $50,000 fine on the rape charge; a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and a maximum of 15 years in prison and up to a $30,000 fine on the sexual contact charge; up to two years in prison and a $4,000 fine on the sexual exploitation charge; up to 15 years in prison and a $30,000 fine on each aggravated assault charge; and up to 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine on the two child abuse charges. He appeared at his arraignment before Circuit Court Judge Jane Wipf Pfeifle from the jail through video conference with his retained attorney Ellery Grey at his side. After Rodriguez entered his not guilty pleas to each charge, Grey asked the judge to lower his bond. Bond was set at $25,000 cash only in the physical abuse case and $50,000 cash only in the sexual abuse case. Grey addressed several bond factors in his argument including flight risk, danger to the community, and the strength of the allegations against him. I dont believe hes a flight risk, Grey said. He said Rodriguez hired him in September while law enforcement was investigating him but before he was arrested, a time when he could have fled the jurisdiction. He added his client is not a danger to the community because of his lack of any significant criminal history and because he honored law enforcements request to not contact the victims during the investigation. Grey also called the evidence against Rodriguez weak. He said the allegations are old, and aside from the children's claims, the only piece of evidence is a photo submitted in the child abuse case of an injury on one of the children. Deputy Pennington County States Attorney Braedon Houdek said the bond amounts were appropriate. He called the circumstances of the cases horrific. He said the children underwent daily abuse, and that Rodriguez threatened to kill them if they told anyone. Addressing flight risk, Houdek said Rodriguez has family ties near the Mexican border and his close friends girlfriend owns a house in Mexico. Pfeifle lowered the $50,000 cash bond in the sexual abuse case to $25,000 cash and kept the physical abuse bond at $25,000 cash. If Rodriguez does post bond, the court ordered he is not allowed to leave Pennington County and will have to wear an ankle monitor with an exclusion zone around the victims address. Rodriguez is scheduled to appear in court at 2:30 p.m. on March 7 for a motions hearing. As of Friday, he had not posted bond and remained booked in the Pennington County Jail. PIERRE South Dakota lawmakers, state agency leaders and water system managers are hustling to spend roughly $700 million in COVID-era funding on water and sewer projects before the federal government claws it back. The money was part of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), a $1.9 trillion aid package Congress and the Biden administration passed in 2019 to help states recover from the pandemic. ARPA rules require states to allocate all the funds by the end of this year and spend it by the end of 2026 or ship it back to Washington for possible usage by other states. The deadlines, coupled with difficulty in completing large-scale water and sewer projects during labor and materials shortages, have instilled a sense of great urgency among the Legislature and the state Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR), which is responsible for permitting water and sewer projects. Hundreds of millions of ARPA dollars are still unspent, so until its done, none of us can feel comfortable, said state Sen. Helene Duhamel, R-Rapid City, a lawmaker leading the effort to get projects completed. Its caused me some sleepless nights. And until everything is resolved at the end of the session, its a nail-biter. The state has allocated $600 million toward more than 200 one-time individual water and wastewater system upgrades and expansions, but less than a third of it has been spent. The remainder is in jeopardy unless state lawmakers take fast action and those who will use the money spend it before the deadlines. South Dakota lawmakers are currently debating how to allocate the remaining $94 million of ARPA water funds. At the start of the legislative session, $131 million of ARPA funds overall were unallocated. But those working on water and sewer system improvements are heartened by a new spending approach unveiled by DANR this legislative session. Rather than accept proposals for any new qualifying projects at this late date, the agency instead proposes that the state use the final $94 million to boost spending on projects that already were approved in the original 2022 spending plan. Andy Bruels, financial and technical assistance director at DANR, said he is confident that the strategy will enable the ARPA funds to be spent on worthy projects before the federal deadline. "Were not really concerned at all in getting those done," Bruels said in an interview with News Watch. "There would be a concern if we were taking on a whole bunch of new projects with this additional $94 million and getting things allocated. But by working with existing projects, theres no concerns in my mind." Bruels, who informs the Legislature on DANR issues, noted that while ARPA funds must be spent by the end of 2026, the projects funded by those dollars don't necessarily have to be completed by that deadline. As a result, the state is urging project managers to spend the federal funding first on those projects before tapping any state loans or local investments, Bruels said. The 2022 investment of $600 million in ARPA funds into the state's water and sewer systems was the single largest spending bill in state history outside of an annual state operational budget. When complete, the 207 projects will affect an estimated 85% of the state's population, Bruels said. "It's an historic investment in the water and sewer infrastructure across the state and its got long-lasting impacts," he said. Two other water-related funding measures are moving through the Legislature this session. Senate Bill 66 would allocate $13 million in ARPA funds to improve or upgrade water and sewer systems at state-owned facilities, including replacing aging sewer lines at Sylvan Lake Lodge in Custer State Park and fixing a retention pond at Mitchell Technical College that is prone to overflow. Senate Bill 7 and Senate Bill 16, which are similar, would provide funding from fees and other sources to complete up to a dozen water, irrigation and flood control projects at a cost of nearly $20 million. Those measures are part of the annual state water project proposals known as the State Water Resources Management System, or SWRMS. Gov. Kristi Noem signed SB 7 into law earlier this session. Among those projects are an irrigation upgrade in Belle Fourche and flood control projects in Sioux Falls, Vermillion and along the Big Sioux River corridor. Partial funding is also included for studies of three projects that would tap the Missouri River for drinking water for northeastern South Dakota and the greater Sioux Falls and Rapid City regions. The DANR's 2022 ARPA spending plan included 207 water and sewer projects that so far have used about $180 million of the $600 million in federal grants allocated, Bruels said. Those projects, which also will be the focus of the proposed $94 million in Senate Bill 53 from the current legislative session, have been provided with more than $1 billion in low-interest state loans to reach completion, he said. The project list is long and covers cities and towns from Webster to Yankton in the east and from Isabel to Oral in the west. The largest grants are for wastewater system rebuilds in Aberdeen, Brookings, Yankton and Rapid City, where a $44 million ARPA grant will help pay for a $145 million wastewater project, the largest on the list. Small towns will also benefit, including from a $25,000 grant for water system improvements in Canova, a $45,000 grant for new water meters in Presho and a $150,000 grant for system improvements in Alexandria. As a result of the grant program, taxpayers and rate-payers will see far smaller special assessments for utility improvements on their monthly bills. "Its all across the state in small towns, larger cities and rural water systems," Bruels said. "These are generational projects that will be in place for 30 to 50 years and benefit the state's children and grandchildren." The impact of ARPA grants is already being felt in one area of southeastern South Dakota, where the Randall Community Water District is using millions in federal funds to help expand its footprint and provide a new source of drinking water from the Missouri River. With district headquarters in Lake Andes, the rural water system has been allocated two ARPA grants totaling $14 million and more than $80 million in low-interest state loans that will offset the costs of more than $100 million in improvements and expansions, according to general manager Scott Pick. The district will receive a $2.7 million ARPA grant to help pay for $9 million in internal system improvements. Meanwhile, the district has been allocated an $11.3 million ARPA grant to help pay for a $95 million, two-phase plan to build a new 70-mile water line from its Missouri River intake site at Pickstown to Stickney and finally to Mitchell, Pick said. The new water line will provide a secondary, redundant water source for Mitchell, one of the states larger cities that is seeing significant growth, he said. The Randall district was a great fit for ARPA funding because the system does its planning and construction work with in-house employees, making its proposals shovel-ready and enabling the system to obtain and spend the ARPA money well before the federal deadlines, Pick said. The ARPA funds have been key to the systems long-range planning and expansion goals, he said. Were able to improve areas of our system with that injection of ARPA money, Pick said. Without it, this wouldnt happen because you cant put all that cost on your customers. Republican Rep. Will Mortenson of Pierre said the Legislature must not be "cavalier" in how it allocates ARPA funding and should remain vigilant in ensuring the money is spent wisely and without waste. "We need to treat every dollar that comes through as preciously as we did in years we had no money whatsoever," Mortenson, the House majority leader, said at a Feb. 1 press conference in Pierre sponsored by the South Dakota NewsMedia Association. "I do not like the sense that some get in their head that federal government money is not to be treated with as much scrutiny or that its someone elses money, because these dollars are coming out of our taxpayers' pockets." Sen. Reynold Nesiba, a Sioux Falls Democrat and the minority leader, said the ARPA funds for infrastructure will benefit South Dakota for generations, including the spending on water and wastewater projects as well as funding for workforce housing and a new state medical lab. Well look back and see that regardless if you like him or not, Joe Biden has been one of the most consequential presidents for the state of South Dakota in our history, Nesiba said at the SDNA press conference. To have $700 million for water and wastewater treatment funds, weve never come close to that. Thats $700 million going to counties and municipalities. ... It is once-in-a-generation funding. Duhamel has become a champion of improving water infrastructure across the state since joining the Legislature in 2019. She told News Watch that a college professor once told her water would someday be more important than oil in the U.S. That message, Duhamel said, now rings true in South Dakota, especially in West River where sources are few. In 2023, she attempted to allocate $100 million in ARPA funds to jumpstart construction of a pipeline from the Missouri River to Rapid City, then cut the tab to $50 million but still lost by two votes in the House of Representatives. Duhamel worries that the remaining unallocated ARPA money could be shifted away from water projects or go unspent and have to be returned to the federal government. For example, she pointed to Senate Bill 134, a measure she co-sponsored that would allocate $20 million in ARPA funds to prop up the ailing timber industry in South Dakota. "Everybody is eyeing every dollar to spend where they think it should be," she said. "Some want to sweep all the ARPA funds all over the place, and it may not get spent in time or put into water." And yet, Duhamel said she is excited that South Dakota communities will see new, improved or expanded water and sewer systems due to the one-time federal funding boost. This is truly an investment in our future, she said. Its infrastructure, the true role of government. Its where we should be and what we should be working on. This article was produced by South Dakota News Watch, a non-profit journalism organization located online at sdnewswatch.org. The South Dakota Supreme Court has ordered the city of Sturgis to hold an election on the retention of the city manager position, a decision that overturns a prior judgment from a lower court. In February 2023, citizens of Sturgis, led by Tammy Bohn, Justin Bohn and Brenda Vasknetz, initiated a petition to hold an election on the city manager position, a move that was blocked by the city's finance officer who refused to certify the petition. Despite the effort, the city council proceeded with plans to replace the outgoing city manager, Daniel Ainslie, disregarding the potential for the city's form of government to change. In response, the petitioners filed a lawsuit against the city, challenging the decision to bypass their request for a public vote. The case initially faced setbacks in the lower courts, where the petitioners' claims were dismissed. However, in a turn of events, the South Dakota Supreme Court ruled in favor of the citizen petition, determining that the city had erred in not certifying the petition and must now organize an election to decide on the retention of the city manager position. The ruling is rooted in South Dakota law SDCL 9-10-1, which grants citizens the right to petition for such an election. The city is still looking over the particulars of the decision and researching when an election on the matter may be held, according to Sturgis Mayor Mark Carstensen. We had hoped that we could have had a healthy civic discussion on the merits of whether or not the city of Sturgis should have a city manager. The Supreme Court decision will now give citizens the opportunity to weigh in on the issue, Carstensen said. The court affirmed the duties of the Sturgis City Finance Officer and City Council to validate the petition and mandated an election. The case has been sent back to the circuit court to order the city council to schedule the election. After 20 years as the director of the Montana Outfitters and Guides Association, Mac Minard is retiring. During that time, Minard advocated for the state's hunting and fishing guides. He worked through several state administrations, countless changes to wildlife policy and witnessed a transition in the way the organization sought victories in those arenas. Before his tenure at MOGA, Minard spent more than 20 years as a biologist with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. He planned to pursue a career in furbearer biology, but his knack for statistics and scientific sampling ushered him into a career studying salmon. Initially he worked studying salmon in the commercial fishing division, but eventually made his way to the sport fishing division and to the inland waters of Alaska. This shift was Minard's introduction to the outfitting and guiding industry. After bush piloting around his remote 56,000-square-mile study area, Minard and his family moved to Montana where he eventually landed the position at MOGA. Minard recently sat down to talk about his perspectives and opinions on hunting, outfitting and wildlife policy that hes developed over the last two decades. The following interview has been edited for clarity. In your 20 years at MOGA, how have things changed in the state for outfitters and why? To examine that would be to examine what things were like 20 years ago There was just this incredible dissension among organizations that represented themselves as conservation or sportsmen, and had some political clout, because we were coming into the Schweitzer, and then ultimately, the Bullock administration. The political views of the people I represent are largely conservative, rural values and the House and the Senate were always kind of conservative. So we could essentially pass any responsible legislation we thought we needed, but we couldn't get it signed. Nobody trusted anybody. Personal relationships really didn't exist among different viewpoints. The common thing, and I was guilty of it and I was good at it, was go to your corner, sharpen your knife and come out fighting. Fast forward to 2010. I-161 was a ballot initiative brought forward to eliminate what was the outfitter-sponsored license. The outfitter-sponsored license was ... limited to about 5,500 and change on big game combination nonresident licenses. So it was an effort to sort of cap the industry. The issue wasn't the industry service as much as it was leasing of private land and rank-and-file Montanans not being able to gain access to lands they'd had before. Ultimately, what happened was the ballot initiative increased the nonguided individual and decreased the guided component. So we ended up in a situation where we had unlimited licenses within the 17,000 that are allocated to nonresident hunters. Those licenses became available to us at a reduced price. So for seven years the department lost money on nonresident license sales, we weren't selling out, we weren't in a draw. And that was a bit of a boon probably for the industry. They began to do estimates of tourism revenue and where different segments of tourism fit into the overall fabric of Montana. Well, it was astounding that all of a sudden, outfitting was, at that time, the (sixth) largest in the state only behind food, fuel, (restaurants/bars), lodging and retail sales. That was a stunner. Then what happened beyond that was a pivotal change in the way MOGA leadership wanted to engage. What emerged was an interest in building relationships with people that might not agree with you or don't agree with you. Rather than scurrying to our corners and sharpening our knives and coming out fighting, how about we start the process of sitting down and talking? And how about we do it in a way where we agree not to weaponize the information that we're sharing with each other? What do you say we put a measure of trust out there. That is a relatively new phenomenon within this policy space. Fast forward to the last legislative session where all of a sudden you've got MOGA, youve got the Montana Wildlife Federation, you've got any number of organizations that have usually lined up on policy issues in different spaces coming together on a package of six or eight bills that didn't change the world but they demonstrated to the Legislature, they demonstrated to the governor's office, they demonstrated to the people of Montana, that diverse interests can come together and make things happen. And that is the way to do business. Whats the greatest challenge MOGA faces going forward? Well, the threats that come at this industry are in part not any different than threats in any other industry. It doesn't matter if you're a contractor or a restaurant or an outfitter. Recruitment and retention of good quality employees and adapting to a younger, changing workforce and their value systems has become incredibly challenging. Especially in the cowboy world of outfitting where, you know, it's normal to work seven days, 10 days, 20 days straight. The other ones are regulatory in nature. There's been sort of a departure from the passion of outdoor recreation as it was 10 or 20 years ago, and moving more toward a different kind. From a less consumptive style to something else. So we do a tremendous amount of work on the regulatory and permitting side. Those are challenges as well as the reaffirmation of the relationship between the outfitters and the Forest Service. We serve a segment of the public who seek to access their public treasures, but who don't have the ability to do it. They may not have the time. They may not have the skill set, and they may not have the equipment. So we're an important piece of those people enjoying their own national treasures. And by doing that you maintain a level of support for those land bases. So we've got to remind ourselves of that. From an industry standpoint, the challenges on the hunting side are stability in licensing. If you're running a business where you've marketed, you have repeat clientele, you provided a good service, but you have to roll the dice before you can tell whether you're going to be able to book a client or not, it's an unsustainable business model. On the fishing side, the growth curve on clients is pretty large, and whether we slingshot into a level post-COVID remains to be seen. But the challenges that we're seeing in the Jefferson River, the Big Hole and in the Beaverhead, these are real and crowding can be an issue. But also water quality and fish health. The number of operators on the fishing side of things is really exploded, and we've had conversations. But difficult problems do not get solved the first go around. What do you think about public land hunters concerns that Montana is trending toward more monetization of wildlife? You hear this all the time, the monetization side of it, and you can't dismiss it. There's some reality there. An outfitter makes his money by providing a service. Monetization of a resource in my mind starts with the sale of fish by the pound, for example. If I'm commercial fishing I get paid by how many pounds of fish I produce, right? That's not the case with outfitting, it is a service oriented thing. You are buying my service, my tent, my horse, my knowledge, and I am assisting you to go out and enjoy an outdoor experience. I'm gonna get paid whether you kill something or not. How does money changing hands for that service differ in any way than a community who bases its hotel sales, restaurant sales on hunters, or sporting goods stores that put on a whole host of specials on hunting gear and equipment, and all (catered) to the hunter? If MOGA outfitters were getting paid by the pound or by the inch of horn, which they don't, that would be one thing. But that's not the case. I do think the industry needs to be damn mindful of what the perception is when you're in the field. And make no mistake about it we've got some really, really great people. But we have got some idiots too. Every industry does. And those guys can undo the good that really good operators have done. And it takes one off to change the whole thing. I think the larger challenge, from a policy standpoint going forward, is how do you manage the space that the outfitting industry in the tourism market brings to the table economically without disenfranchising those that don't do outfitted hunts. Do you see more out-of-state leasing of private lands as a concern for the outfitting business? Well, private leasing of property for the purpose of your own recreation, whether it's hunting or fishing, or some other thing is not new. To answer your question, yeah, I do. But it's way bigger than just outfitting. It's all of us. In every form it runs right into the core value of landowner and property rights. It's their property, they choose to do what they want to do with it. Many of them, and this is true with the outfitter leasing that goes on to that revenue stream, can have the benefit of making sure that those lands remain in a working landscape as opposed to subdivisions and and some other way to break them up. So the trends in this stuff and the new models that are out there are trouble. It's certainly a new landscape that you have to work with, and it's going to change things. In the outfitter community you are offering these services which require that you have someplace to provide them, and you might be a public land outfitter or you're a private land outfitter. You may own that property yourself or you may have adjacent ranches tied into it. The price that you can do that for from a business standpoint may necessarily be less than what you and I could do if we were a couple of big hotshots and didn't need to worry about a margin. So generally speaking, the outfitter community can't compete with the prices that some of these hunt clubs or individuals choose to pay. So it has impacted it. Does the national decline in hunter numbers concern you or the industry? Not really, because I don't think it's a reality here in the American West. And I don't know that it's a reality in our nation, per se. People are hunting in greater numbers, if they have it available to them and have some mentoring systems available, for the purpose of providing high-quality protein. And you gotta love that. I don't know if it makes up for the decline in hunter numbers. But what it does at the ballot box on pro-hunting or anti-hunting issues is that people are now going to favor it. They're going to lean that way, because there's a great value in equality and a clean food source. Big Hearts Under the Big Sky holds a special place in your heart. Can you tell me about the organization and the work it does? The Big Heart Under the Big Sky program falls under MOGAs philanthropic arm. So like any trade association, they wanted to find a way to give something back. When you start putting down the markers on the table of what would constitute a model, you realize that the donated trip is the currency that the outfitting community can trade in. Then when you think about the nature of rural Montana values, it was a matter of identifying a couple of areas that we could serve. In 2008 we stood up a program that served military servicemen and women who had provided extraordinary service to our country and children facing a life-threatening illness, defined as if something doesn't change they may not see their 18th birthday. Those were the two core groups. What makes Big Hearts unique in the nation is no other organization in the country that combines professional outfitted services given to the military side and the youth and their family. At the absolute center of this entire discussion is the family. I think everyone is going to agree that Montana heals. Many organizations focus on the veteran, many focus on the groups of veterans. We focus on the family in its entirety. One of the things that I began to realize, having administered this thing 17 years now, is that it is the most important work I've ever done in my life. Bar none. Does this mean youll have more time for hunting and fishing? Yeah, that's the idea. At least hunting and fishing without worrying about MOGA. I wasnt sure what to expect when my days assignment for Feb. 3 was to travel to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts for their ChinaFest celebration: Year of the Wood Dragon. The event certainly flipped my perception of what a family day at a fine arts museum is supposed to be. The idea that theyre quiet places, where pieces of art are to be admired from a distance and discussed in hush whispers, and where the quiet and calm are broken only by the occasional scream of a baby. Last weekend, the VMFAs halls echoed with a chorus of laughter, drum beats and jovial conversation, a proper way to celebrate the Lunar New Year happening today! The event far exceeded my expectations. Ive never seen a fine arts museum in which so many kids had such a good time in it before. It was great to see everyone having fun, enjoying the presentations about Chinese culture through martial arts demonstrations and dances. The main show was the Dragon Dance, performed by the Choy Wun Dance Troupe. I made sure I arrived early so I could get a spot to photograph the performance. As the time for the show drew nearer, the crowd grew. I found myself standing with another photograph shoulder to shoulder. Because the size of the crowd was so dense, I was locked into that spot for the duration of the performance. Having to make do with the tiny amount of real estate I secured was tricky. In addition, the dance performance by the Pacific Arts Troupe packed the Cheek Theater. Attendees were treated to original choreographed dances and martial arts demonstration between dances. From the Archives: Agecroft Hall Agecroft Agecroft Agecroft Agecroft Agecroft Agecroft Agecroft Agecroft After potentially becoming the first Virginia locality to open a Buc-ees convenience store and gas station, New Kent County will have to settle for runner-up. The rebuilding of the Interstate 64 and state Route 609 interchange at Exit 211 is the main project in need of completion to clear the way for the Buc-ees store to be built. The I-64 widening project will also supplement traffic flow in the area. New Kent Assistant County Administrator Matthew Smolnik said the countys goal is to have the interchange, I-64 and Buc-ees projects completed around the same time, which could occur in 2026 or 2027. The timeline has paved the way for Rockingham County to take the pole position in the race to open Virginias first Buc-ees. In late January, Gov. Glenn Youngkin attended the groundbreaking celebration for Rockinghams Buc-ees off Interstate 81, which is slated to open in 2025. Virginia is proud to welcome @bucees to the Commonwealth! Today's groundbreaking represents 200 jobs and an investment of more than 60 million dollars in Rockingham County. I look forward to stopping by for some Beaver Nuggets soon! pic.twitter.com/hNbPTZeQtI Governor Glenn Youngkin (@GovernorVA) January 30, 2024 Last June, a groundbreaking event in New Kent appeared to be on the horizon following an announcement by S.L. Nusbaum Realty Co., the real estate firm that is handling site work at the New Kent location. However, a date will not be set until the road improvement plans are finalized. According to Nathan Shor, senior vice president of S.L. Nusbaum Realty, New Kents hopes of hosting the first Buc-ees in the state was more of a point of pride than a realistic scenario. (Buc-ees) is very excited about New Kent, Shor said. But its important that you have the infrastructure in place for everybodys sake. The New Kent store will be on 27 acres of land that was purchased by Buc-ees New Kent LLC for $6.5 million. According to Shor, Buc-ees stores typically take 15 to 18 months to build. Photos: Buc-ees locations across the U.S. About 30 parents and residents rallied outside Deep Run High School in Henrico County on Thursday, eight days after a news organization published a story on a teachers comments about the Israel-Palestinian conflict. The Washington Examiner last month reported that ninth-grade social studies teacher Catherine Massalha went into a 12-minute rant saying the United States is funding a genocide in Gaza. Massalha, in a recording taken by one of her students, referred to Hamas as resistance fighters, according to the Examiner, which reported that she also said U.S. tax dollars have been used to support the occupation of Palestine for decades. The protesters on Thursday said she violated school policy when making those statements. Massalha was not immediately available to comment. Henrico County Public Schools said it does not typically comment on individual employee matters. We want our community to know that the teachers comments are not part of the established HCPS curriculum. When a concern of this nature arises, it is investigated thoroughly and addressed appropriately. That process is ongoing at this time, said Henrico schools spokesperson Eileen Cox. The Examiner also reported that Massalha can be heard saying that her family is Palestinian and she felt that if she did not speak up, in another month, maybe all of the Gazan people will be dead or displaced. She was completely sharing one side of information based on her religious political beliefs, said Tiffany Sweetser, a parent of a student at Deep Run. Hamas is a designated terrorist organization. She didnt share that information. Others from the group said they worried about the emotional safety of students who might be Jewish. Deep Run principal Brian P. Fellows has noted that the comments were not part of school curriculum and said the school system was investigating the incident. While utilizing current events in class is sometimes an effective strategy, navigating these discussions can sometimes be challenging, especially when the topic evokes a range of emotions, Fellows wrote. We all see the world through our own lens based on our personal and lived experiences which often leads to deeper learning through rich and rewarding conversations among our students. Israel-Hamas war at 100 days The weekend weather will not be perfect, but there will be time to be outside when rain is not falling. A weak system moves through metro Richmond on Saturday morning, bringing more clouds than anything else, but a few small rain showers will get squeezed out during the morning. For most locations, it will not be enough to truly wet the ground and will certainly not provide a soaking rain. Another system follows for Sunday morning, but this will produce a couple or a few hours of rain during the morning. No heavy rain is expected, but a 10th- to a quarter-inch should cover most locations before it ends by Sunday afternoon. Despite the additional cloud cover and rain, it will be warmer than the past few days. Weekend highs will be in the upper 50s to 60s, and the nights will hover in the 40s to lower 50s. A more significant storm moves through early next week, although the precise timing is still a question. It may be as early as Monday morning or as late as Tuesday morning, but it does appear to bring several hours of rain when it finally arrives. There was some thought a few days ago that the storm could bring snow to Virginia, but it now appears accumulating snow will be confined to Pennsylvania, New York and New England. However, the storm is only coming onshore in the Pacific Northwest on Friday, so there is still opportunity to nudge the forecast toward snow if needed over the weekend. Its expected to be cool and dry for the rest of the week after that storm, with afternoon temperatures in the 40s and nights in the 20s, which translates to about 5 to 10 degrees colder than normal. And for the rest of the month, the weather pattern continues to favor temperatures below normal, with only a few milder days until the beginning of March. Looking for snow in the longer term, another significant system will be near Virginia around Monday the 19th, and the temperatures will be close to supporting snow during that time, but it is too early for a guarantee. For those looking for accumulating snow, it appears to be our next reasonable chance. NOAA released its monthly temperature analysis for the United States on Thursday and, nationally, the temperatures averaged out close to normal for January, with some colder spots in the Southern Plains and the Lower Mississippi River Valley, but warmer spots in the Upper Midwest and the Northeast. For Virginia, it was among the warmest third of all Januarys on record back to 1895, but nowhere near the top 20. More specific to Richmond, in spite of the cold in the middle of the month, January finished 3.3 degrees above normal, as the late-month surge of warmth effectively wiped out the impact of the mid-month cold on the average January temperature this year. We had four days that were at least 10 degrees colder than normal, but six that were at least 10 degrees warmer than normal including Jan. 26, which was an astounding 30.8 degrees warmer than normal. And with 5.76 inches of rain last month, this remains the wettest meteorological winter on record to this point, with a total of 14.63 inches. Cats and dogs that need homes in the Richmond area Rep. Abigail Spanberger, D-7th, arrived in Ukraine on Friday morning as part of a five-member congressional delegation to meet with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy amid concern that Congress will not approve additional military aid for the country to defend itself from a Russian invasion launched two years ago. Spanberger, a Henrico County resident and a member of the House Permanent Select Intelligence Committee, has criticized Republican opposition that killed a proposed $118 billion aid package in the U.S. Senate this week that would have included $60 billion in U.S. aid to Ukraine. The Senate is now considering a $95 billion package in aid for Ukraine, Israel, Gaza and priorities in the Indo-Pacific region. Members held a news conference in Kyiv to show support for Ukraine. To the Ukrainian people, thank you for welcoming us on this trip, Spanberger said during the news conference, according to a transcript her office provided. As my colleagues have stated, the purpose and the goal of this trip is to ensure that our Ukrainian partners recognize the commitment that the American people and certainly the American Congress will continue to have in supporting Ukraine in its fight for freedom. An important meeting today with President @ZelenskyyUa and members of Congress HPSCI Chairman @RepMikeTurner, @RepFrenchHill, @RepJasonCrow, @RepSpanberger and @ZachNunn to underscore bipartisan support for Ukraine and its fight for freedom. pic.twitter.com/AFSWXfRtE4 Ambassador Bridget A. Brink (@USAmbKyiv) February 9, 2024 It is consistent with who the American people are. It is consistent with our democratic values to recognize the extraordinary strength, the extraordinary might, the extraordinary grit of the Ukrainian people as they have worked tirelessly to defend their own freedom and their own country. According to a report by Reuters, House Intelligence Committee Chairman Mike Turner, R-Ohio, said, The United States is working diligently in the House of Representatives and the Senate to secure the funding that is necessary in 2024. Conservative Republicans in the House and the Senate oppose additional military aid to Ukraine, as does former President Donald Trump, who is likely the GOP presidential candidate in a rematch with President Joe Biden in November. The delegation includes four members of the House Intelligence Committee Spanberger, Turner, Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., and Rep. Jason Crow, D-Colo. and Rep. Zach Nunn, R-Iowa. The members of the intelligence committee also met with Ukrainian intelligence services, Reuters reported. We stand with Ukraine not just because we understand that defending freedom and democracy around the world is an American value, but we stand with Ukraine because its also in Americas interests to do so, said Crow, a former U.S. Army Ranger and a recipient of the Bronze Star for his conduct in combat in Iraq. Spanberger is not seeking reelection to her congressional seat and will run for governor next year. Photos: Russia's war in Ukraine reaches the 500-day mark Sometimes, Virginias General Assembly changes its collective mind about the biggest issues without saying a word about why. On Friday, for instance, the House of Delegates Counties, Cities and Towns Committee reversed a subcommittees decision to kill a bill partly inspired by Hopewells fiscal problems. It would allow a state-designated official to take over the financial affairs of local governments that were having challenges paying their bills or submitting annual financial reports. The evening before, the Senate Finance Committee killed a bill that would have created an exemption to the cap on medical malpractice awards, with none of the nine committee members voting to do so saying a word about why. The reason for the unusual decision for the Counties, Cities and Towns committee to restore legislation that had been tabled, said committee chair Del. Candi Mundon King, D-Prince William, was new information about the measure. She did not tell the committee what that was. Afterward, she said it was a revision to the rejected bill. It said the state-designated emergency fiscal manager could take over functions only from a municipalitys treasurer. An earlier version extended that power to all constitutional officers, a change delegates said still left the bill essentially identical to what they had tabled. Del. Shelly Simonds, D-Newport News, who had made the motion in the subcommittee to table the bill, but voted to approve it in full committee, said after looking over the latest substitute with the single change about treasurers that: I think this bill is about good governance. A Senate version of the bill passed that bodys Local Government Committee on an 8-6 party-line vote, with Democrats favoring and Republicans opposing. In the House subcommittee, Democrats favored tabling the motion, and Republicans voted for it. Lobbyists for local governments had worked intensively to oppose the measure as an overreach of state power, and said they were surprised by the return to life of the House version. They speculated that there had been a mistaken sense that the measure was somehow partisan. The bills, filed by Del. Carrie Coyner, R-Chesterfield, and state Sen Lashresce Aird, D-Petersburg, were prompted by what Virginia Secretary of Finance Stephen Cummings last year called the five-alarm fire that is Hopewells finances, and the City Councils rebuffing of a state-hired auditors recommendations to repair matters. The two legislators districts include Hopewell. Medical malpractice The medical malpractice bill would have allowed cases involving children under 10 to be awarded more damages for medical malpractice than the current $2.6 million cap set by state law. That cap is the result of an agreement negotiated 13 years ago between medical associations and trial lawyers to end a yearslong battle over lawsuits over medical mistakes. A relieved legislature, seeing what some call peace in the valley between opposing special interests, went along. The bills sponsor, state Sen. Bill Stanley, R-Franklin, said the cap protected insurers more than doctors or hospitals or nurses, and that those insurers made profits in the billions of dollars. There is room for them to have compassion so that they can care for children like Artemis, who never got a chance of life, said Stanley, referring to Artemis McRae, a 2-year-old from Warrenton who suffered massive and eventually fatal organ and brain damage after a nurse mistakenly fed a lethal dose of painkiller into his IV. Artemis father, Carson McRae, convinced bipartisan members of the Senate Courts of Justice Committee to support the measure by asking them what the life of a child was worth and saying the current $2.6 million cap was nowhere near enough to cover the kind of care Artemis would have needed had he survived. Insurance companies almost never, ever, even in the most obvious cases, never tried to resolve these cases, said state Sen. Mark Obenshain, R-Harrisonburg. Theyre breaking the system. And I just submit that this is a way to address it and hopefully the insurance companies get in shape and will treat their insurance patients with good faith. Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell, D-Fairfax, said the cap means the case for a child damaged by medical malpractice will eventually fall on taxpayers, because Medicaid would step in. We need to stop taxpayers funding this and have people making the mistakes starting to help cover this cost for these people who are innocent victims, he said. None of the nine Finance Committee members who voted to kill the bill spoke up to say why. Lobby Day at the Virginia General Assembly 2024 Mexicos Secretary of Foreign Affairs launches Tent Mexico job coalition for migrants and refugees Mexico City, Mexico The Secretary of Foreign Affairs (SRE), Alicia Barcena Ibarra, participated in the launch of TENT Mexico operations to generate business coalitions in favor of refugees and migrants. During the event, Foreign Minister Barcena Ibarra spoke about the importance of the effective and empathetic integration of refugees and migrants into society. Work is the master key to combat inequality and poverty and we must include them all in society, but most importantly work () I believe that with this alliance of government, society, employers and workers we can achieve it, she said. Companies are agents of change, so integrating refugees and migrants into the workforce is not an act of charity, it is an act of community commitment, global solidarity and of social responsibility. Mexico is developing high-impact projects such as the Maya Train, such as the Transisthmian Corridor, such as the border which opens opportunities but certainly, as Amy Pope says, if the private sector does not play in this productive, commercial integration, it is impossible to generate employment, she said. Marath Baruch Bolanos Lopez, the Secretary of Labor and Social Welfare (STPS), highlighted that the immigration policy of the Government of Mexico is established on the basis of full respect for human rights. Likewise, she considered that human mobility and labor migration have various drivers such as the lack of opportunities in the countries of origin and, therefore, through the National Employment Service, a labor inclusion policy is promoted where attention is prioritized to those who face greater barriers to accessing employment, including the migrant population looking for work in Mexico. To achieve this, there are 166 offices throughout the country and more than 2,500 labor counselors. Refugees and migrants and in general the population in a context of mobility, prove to be a very important source of talent for the private sector in Mexico to meet the personnel needs that are not covered in the country. In that sense, the talent of the migrant population is complementary to that of Mexicans and, under no circumstances, can we speak of displacement of Mexicans, Bolanos Lopez emphasized. More than 40 large companies in Mexico have joined to provide jobs to migrants and refugees. Photo: SRE February 8, 2023. Soon the STPS will launch the labor mobility microsite Mexico employs you, where the population looking for work will be able to register their work profile and access formal jobs. There the commitment of all those present will be the one who joins in promoting their available vacancies. This site joins the Employment Portal, the Job Board and the Job Fairs so that the migrant and refugee population can attend the events and access a job according to their work profile, the secretary explained. TENT Partnership for Refugees is a global alliance of companies whose goal is to economically integrate refugees. The alliance is made up of more than 350 large companies from various sectors and has a presence in Germany, Canada, Colombia, Spain, the United States, France, the Netherlands, Peru, Poland, Sweden, the United Kingdom and, now, in Mexico. At the start of TENT Mexico, companies from sectors such as technology, health, e-commerce and retail, logistics, hotels and food joined forces to generate 10,000 jobs in the coming years for migrants and refugees. A Pulaski Circuit Court judge sentenced the Burkeville man who led police on a multi-jurisdictional hunt in 2022 to a fourth year in prison this week. A jury found Shawn Michael Tolbert, 43, guilty on one misdemeanor charge Wednesday, Assistant Commonwealth Attorney Nicole Cumberland said in an email Friday. After hearing the evidence the jury found Mr. Tolbert guilty of obstructing justice in Pulaski County on August 30, 2022, Cumberland said. The judge sentenced Mr. Tolbert to serve 12 months in jail, the maximum jail sentence that could be imposed for this conviction. Tolbert failed to stop for police on Interstate 81 in Roanoke County on August 11, 2022. He led officers on a pursuit along the highway and eventually into Craig County, where he crashed the vehicle and fled the scene on foot. Law enforcement located and arrested Tolbert nearly three weeks later in Dublin, where he was taking shelter in a bus in a residential back yard. The Virginia State Police and Dublin Police Department were crucial in finding this suspect and ensuring the communitys safety while making this arrest, Cumberland said. Tolbert has faced several charges associated with the Aug. 11 pursuit and associated manhunt. In Montgomery County Circuit Court, Tolbert pleaded guilty to felony eluding and was sentenced to serve a year in prison. In Craig County Circuit Court, Tolbert pleaded guilty to assaulting a sheriffs deputy and was sentenced to serve a second year in jail. And in Roanoke County Circuit Court, he entered a no-contest plea to a felony eluding charge and was sentenced to a third year of active jail time. In Pulaski County, a judge sentenced Tolbert Wednesday immediately following his jury trial. Certified copies of his prior convictions were presented to the judge for purposes of sentencing, Cumberland said. Tolbert continued to be held Friday at the New River Valley Regional Jail, according to the facilitys inmate lookup system. ROCKY MOUNT A special meeting called by the Franklin County Board of Supervisors on Thursday gave no new information on the fate of up to three schools facing closure due to a reduction in state funding. Supervisors addressed a crowd of parents and teachers packed into the countys government center. There was no firm solution and no vote at the afternoon meeting, only a few ideas for short-term stopgap funding and statements of frustration concerning the Local Composite Index, a formula the state uses to determine how much a locality is able to pay for education costs. Based on the formula, Franklin County will see a $3.7 million reduction in education funding from the state. Our state representatives in Richmond have stated that we have a better ability to pay than Loudoun County, Virginia, which is the richest county in America. That just doesnt make sense, said Blue Ridge District representative Tim Tatum. It is that $3.7 million reduction in funding that has forced the Franklin County School Board to consider closing Henry Elementary School and Burnt Chimney Elementary School later this year and possibly one other school in the future, either Callaway Elementary School, Snow Creek Elementary School or the Gereau Center. Boone District representative and Chairman Ronnie Thompson said Thursdays meeting was held to address what he called some of the rumors he had heard in the community, the main one being that the county had enough reserve funds to keep the schools open. Franklin County currently has just over $43 million in reserve funds, but more than half is needed to maintain the countys high credit rating, Thompson said. The credit rating allows the county to borrow money at a cheaper rate. That is not a pot of money that we can spend, Thompson said. Thompson was one of the five supervisors in attendance at Tuesdays meeting. Rocky Mount District representative Mike Carter was unable to attend due to a family emergency. Union Hall District representative Dan Quinn was out of the state. Efforts to have him connect to the meeting by phone failed. At least two of the supervisors present said they were willing to provide a one-time influx of $3.7 million into Franklin County Public Schools budget to allow Henry and Burnt Chimney elementary to stay open another year. Tatum said he was against the closing of any school and would support using reserve funds to keep them open. I support this board looking into reserve funds if we need to to support our schools to get them over this hump until the state can get their act straightened out, Tatum said. Snow Creek District representative Nick Mitchell agreed with Tatum. He said he would support using reserve funds to help bridge the gap temporarily to keep schools open. There was also some discussion the state could possibly postpone the $3.7 reduction in funding for one to two years. Gills Creek District representative Lorie Smith said that could allow time for the state to consider fixing the formula as well as give the school board adequate time to make decisions on funding. The current Local Composite Index formula uses true value of real property, adjusted gross income and taxable retail sales in the county as well as student population. Smith said other factors such as land use in the county and the number of students on free or reduced lunches also should be factored in. This is a very difficult place the state has put us in, Smith said. Another possible revenue source to make up the $3.7 million shortfall is using some of the additional real estate tax revenue from the countys recent reassessments. Residential home valuations in the county are expected to increase by 55%, which could be a significant bump to county revenue if the rates are not equalized. While supervisors said there will be a drop in the real estate tax rate from its current level of 61 cents per $100 of assessed value, they wouldnt say how much. Smith said work is still ongoing to figure out how much they would bring down the rate while providing the necessary services for the county. We are going to bring that tax rate down, Smith said. We just dont know the number today. Franklin County has the lowest real estate tax rate in the Roanoke metro area, compared with Roanoke, at $1.22 per $100 of assessed value, Salem at $1.20, Roanoke County at $1.06, Botetourt County at 79 cents and Craig County at 63 cents. Franklin supervisors said the decisions ultimately will come from the school board concerning how to make up the $3.7 million shortfall. The school board will provide its budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year later this month. Supervisors will hold discussions on the countys overall budget, including schools, in March with a final vote on the budget scheduled for sometime in April. Thank you for reading! Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading. BLACKVILLE Silvopasture is an ancient farming practice that integrates trees, pastures and livestock, to help farmers increase profits, support livestock production and protect the climate. The Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service is offering a program this spring to teach South Carolina producers about the establishment, management and economics of silvopasture systems on their properties. Silvopasture Systems in the Southeast is a program developed by the Clemson Extension Livestock and Forages, and the Forestry and Wildlife Resources teams, together with forage specialists from Virginia Tech University and the University of Tennessee. It consists of two webinars and a field day. Silvopasture Silvopasture involves growing trees and grazing livestock on the same site. Silvopasture involves growing trees and grazing livestock on the same site, said Janet Steele, Clemson area forestry and wildlife agent. Were holding this program to show South Carolina producers how they can use silvopasture to enhance productivity and protect the climate, as well as diversify income sources. The webinars are free and will be held via Zoom from 1 to 3 p.m. EST on March 7 and March 14. The March 7 webinar will feature presentations from professors and forages specialists John Fike from Virginia Tech University and Bruno Pedreira from the University of Tennessee. Fike will give an Introduction to silvopasture production systems. Pedreiras seminar will focus on Animal health and environmental benefits of the use of silvopasture systems. The March 14 webinar will feature a roundtable discussion led by Liliane Silva, Clemson forages research and extension specialist, and Steele, with agricultural professionals, producers and extension personnel. The discussion will focus on relevant topics and presenters will share experiences and challenges related to silvopasture systems in South Carolina and the Southeastern United States. To register for the webinars, go to http://tinyurl.com/SilvoWeb0324 A field day will be held from 8:30 a.m. to noon on April 11 in Varnville. Exact location will be shared upon registration. Cost to attend the field day is $15. To register for the field day, go to http://tinyurl.com/SilvoField0424. Topics to be covered during the field day include an overview of silvopasture, including information about the different types of systems, establishment and management strategies. Field day participants will also learn about the benefits of including a silvopasture system in their operations, such as diversified income and ecosystem services delivery. Other field day topics include establishing a silvopasture system in woodlands by Steele. Silva will address how to establish pastures and manage livestock in a silvopasture system and the microclimate and animal health benefits from using these systems. Alton Smith, field tour host and owner of Smith Forest Management, will talk about challenges and experiences in using a silvopasture system for commercial livestock production. A tour will also be included in field day activities. For more information, contact Janet Steele, jmwatt@clemson.edu. FLORENCE, S.C. Florence firefighters battled a business fire Thursday at a strip mall on Second Loop Road. Firefighters were dispatched at 9:19 a.m. to 1800 Second Loop Road, Unit 6, and found smoke coming from the front of the structure. Firefighters deployed a ladder truck to the roof while an engine crews went into the front of the building to fight the fire and other crews worked to evacuate tenants from neighboring businesses, according to the Florence Fire Department. Firefighters had the fire controlled within 15 minutes and worked afterward to ventilate smoke from the building. The cause of the blaze was electrical. Firefighters were assisted on scene by officers with Florence Police Department and medics with Florence County EMS. It was the summer of Barbie, Taylor Swift and Beyonce. Girls ran the world, and girlhood was celebrated with friendship bracelets and pink merchandise galore. This version of girlhood has made its way into the political sphere with young girls and women flocking to see Nikki Haley, placing her as the newest women figure of this niche. Haley signs arms at her campaign speeches, where she is offered friendship bracelets. Influencers use her standard campaign Margaret Thatcher quote If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman on TikTok. Young girls wearing Clemson orange and purple shirts, American-themed bows and ribbons, pins with pictures of Haley on them and signs with little women for Haley, have been a popular occurrence at her rallies in the Palmetto state. For some, its not about Haleys politics at all. Many of the girls at the recent events wont even be old enough to vote, and some are too young to be talking politics with friends. But seeing a woman running for president was all they needed. Swift, Haley and Dolly Madison have more in common than you think Amelia Earhart, Rosa Parks, Dolly Madison, Margaret Thatcher, Nana, Kimberly Hampton, women in the Marines, sisters, aunts, moms, J-Lo, Miss Colorado, Sarah Blakely, Megyn Kelly, Anne Hathaway and Taylor Swift (more than once), were all names that young girls and women at Haleys Jan. 27 Greenville campaign event said inspired them or held characteristics that they loved about Haley. Im excited to see Nikki Haley because she might be the first woman to become a president of the United States and I support her in that, and weve never had a woman president so I dont know what its like and Im excited to know what it is like, possibly, said Nora White, a 10-year-old in fourth grade. Nora, came to the Greenville event from Durham, North Carolina, with her sister, Ellison and their dad, Michael. He said events like Haleys are not something they get to experience very much in North Carolina, and that bringing his girls to events like hers was politics in action. I think having two daughters, to see them have a positive role model thats a Republican woman who is running for president, I think there is nothing better than for them to see that first hand, Michael said. Before Haley appeared, the three were on risers near the stage with signs, dancing to songs such as Holding Out for a Hero, by Bonnie Tyler and the Go-Gos We Got the Beat. Noras sister Ellison White, 17, said its a huge deal to see a woman on stage running for president. The high school senior wants to study political science in college. She said Haley has inspired her with her American dream. We live in a bluer county in North Carolina. So, being able to come out and be surrounded by people who are like-minded with us is a huge deal, especially with my sister only being 10 years old, Ellison said. While a lot of her friends dont necessarily share her political views, Ellison said several of them said they would stand behind Haley because of the core American values she presents. Its not necessarily because shes more left leaning at all, but because she stands for the traditional things written out in the Constitution, Ellison said. From where Im from, I dont see young people support Republican women. Its super inspiring to see another woman up on stage fighting for our rights to be president of the United States, Nora said. After the event, Nora asked Haley to sign her arm, and then hugged Haley in a photo. Tami Uria, a teacher in Greenville, attended the event with her daughter Sofia, 7, and husband, Scott. When Haley was governor, she visited a school Uria was teaching at. Shes always been in my mind since then, Uria said. I love seeing a powerful woman who is also very eloquent in the way she speaks and shes very educated, very smart. I just think its a great example for all of our girls, the girls that I teach, my daughters. I just think its a great example for them as well. Alex Rogers, 16, and Mimi Sherman, 16, best friends who attend high school in Greenville, were both excited to see Haley. Decked out in red, white and blue, Rogers held an American flag while Sherman held a sign that said Nikki 2024, About Time. Ive always been a very patriotic and Republican person, but I also am relatively a heavy feminist, so having a Republican female is one of the best things I could have hoped for for this presidency and overall our government, Rogers said. While the girls are 16 and cannot vote yet, they definitely care about politics and both plan to join the military. Rogers said Haley shares a lot of qualities with other Republicans that she likes. Age also plays a big role, she said, and she appreciated Haley was younger. Its time, we need a woman president, Rogers said. While some young girls may not be able to understand the politics, all their parents at the Jan. 27 event agreed it was vital to give them a chance to see a woman like Haley in a powerful position. Swifts The man, but Haleys version. Even for some teens, it was less about Haleys politics, and seemingly more about her energy and appearance as a woman running for president, especially when she went after the male candidates. On TikTok, a mix up of the song Maneater by Nelly Furtado and Haley saying Thatchers want something done, ask a woman quote went viral, used with over 15,000 posts, including by several popular young influencers including Alix Earle. Whether influencers or social media users intend to support Haley, they all found the sound catchy or inspiring enough to add to their own content. Other users have posted videos of Haley defending herself or snapping at some of the former male Republican candidates, including Vivek Ramaswamy and Ron DeSantis. For all you girl dads out there, and all you strong moms, we have to raise strong girls. Strong girls become strong women. Strong women become strong leaders, Haley told the Greenville crowd. Amanda Elliott and her daughter Vada, 3, attended the event with a friend. Elliott said she knows Vada is young, but she feels its important to bring her out to community events. She also took Vada to a Tim Scott event and when she voted. I wanna be able to tell her (Vada) when you were three you came to a Nikki Haley rally because she was in your backyard, and theres no excuse not to come, Elliott said. Good Leader. Nice and funny. Throughout the night, Haley was described in many different ways. Jenelle Martin, 16, her sister Abby Martin, 12, came with their mom, Andrea Martin, and their neighbor Hannah McCurry, 14. When asked what words they would use to describe Haley, the girls said strong, inspiring, moderate, and inclusive. I thought, if she does become president, which I hope she does, I think it would be awesome to be able to say hey I met the first woman president, Jenelle said. Other girls, like Ruby Moon, 8, who came with her grandmother Becky Tomes, said if she could tell Haley something, she would tell her she is really nice and funny. Reagan Scharf, a fifth-grader who attended with her parents and two siblings, said words that best encompassed Haley were confident, good leader, and incredible. Reagans math teacher is married to Nikki Haley daughter, said Reagans mom, Megan. Reagan was excited to come see Haley because of that. Throughout the event, everyone seemed to enjoy the playlist, but especially the children who attended. Ana, a 5-year-old kindergartner, jumped around to Dancing Queen by ABBA while her great-uncle, Andrew Morris, and Nana Jane Morris waited for Haley to arrive. I am 75 and I am too old to make any world decisions, Jane said. Just like those two old men. They are just old. Biden looks like that old man from 'Sesame Street,' the theater guy, oh wait, 'The Muppets.' While Ana wasnt quite aware of who Haley was, she seemed happy to be there, and said she looked up to her mama. The men have been in charge of the world since the beginning of time, and look what theyve done with it. Lets give a woman a chance! Jane said. 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We are also in the same pact with National Oil Corporation of Libya," Sushma Rawat, director of exploration with ONGC said. Earlier this week, Reuters reported that Oil India is talks with stakeholders to restart drilling in Libya, 13 years after the company exited the country due to political instability. ONGC and Oil India both pulled staff out of Libya in 2011. ADVERTISEMENT ONGC is also in talks to increase production in Venezuela, Rawat told reporters on the sidelines of India Energy Week event in Goa. Oil India, too, is in talks with operators to ramp up oil production in the South American nation, Reuters had reported this week. The United States had granted sanctions relief for OPEC member Venezuela in October last year in recognition of a deal for elections this year. However, on Jan. 29 the country began reinstating sanctions on Venezuela. Rawat also said the company will start drilling in Andaman Islands by the end of the year and Cauvery Delta in South India by this month or March. The official also said the company needs tax rebates and cost benefits when it goes for exploration in difficult regions. (Reporting by Sethuraman N R and Ashitha Shivaprasad, writing by Varun Vyas; Editing by Mrigank Dhaniwala and Lincoln Feast) National University of Singapore (NUS). (PHOTO: Yahoo News Singapore) SINGAPORE The National University of Singapore (NUS) will be setting up a pop-up visitor centre from July this year, in order to provide its visitors with a "meaningful and engaging experience". It will also introduce guided walks led by trained NUS student guides, according to The Straits Times. The move is in contrast with that of Nanyang Technological University (NTU), which requires all travel agencies who want to conduct tours at its campus to register their tours, book visitation slots and adhere to visiting guidelines. Tour groups will also have to pay an entry fee of $719.40 per vehicle entering the campus, and all tours must be completed within an hour. Both universities are dealing with an influx of foreign tourists visiting their campuses, leading to complaints from students from both universities, such as large crowds taking up seats meant for them, long wait times for toilets, as well as packed campus shuttles and eateries including canteens. Open campus, so no fees for NUS visitors NUS said in a media statement on Friday (9 February) that it will not be charging visitors any fees, as it is an open campus. It is a privilege to be able to welcome visitors locally and from abroad who share in our mission and are interested to learn more about the university," it said. "At the same time, ensuring a conducive environment for the best learning experience of our students, preserving campus vibrancy for an immersive student life, and keeping our facilities such as laboratories and classrooms safe and secure are important priorities. The new visitor programme aims to be up and running for the summer vacation season from late July this year. NUS said that until then, it will consult stakeholders, student leaders and travel agencies to work out operational details such as tour registration and visitor route. Do you have a story tip? Email: sgnews.tips@yahooinc.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter. Also check out our Southeast Asia, Food, and Gaming channels on YouTube. The Prince of Wales just revealed an exciting piece of information about the next Earthshot Prize awards ceremony Chris Jackson/Getty Prince William visits Singapore in Nov. 2023 for the Earthshot Prize awards ceremony Prince William's environmental prize has a new venue on a new continent! The fourth annual Earthshot Prize ceremony will be held in Cape Town, South Africa this November, the organization revealed on Friday. A year after Prince William, 41, showcased the finalists and revealed the winners in Singapore, this will be the fourth iteration of the awards show. It kicked off in London in 2021 and then was held in Boston in December 2022. Earthshot is planning to run for 10 years, handing out more than $50 million in prizes in that time. Prince William and his wife, Kate Middleton, attended the first two ceremonies together. But last year, Kate stayed at home to support their son Prince George, 10, as he faced school exams. Chris Jackson/Getty Prince William attends the 2023 Earthshot Prize awards in Singapore Related: Kate Middleton Won't Join Prince William in Singapore So She Can Support Prince George During a Busy Time With Princess Kate, 42, recovering after her abdominal surgery that took place three weeks ago, it is too early to say whether she or Prince William will attend this time in Cape Town. Any international travel plans will come in due course, a source says. The last prominent visit by members of the royal family to Cape Town was when Prince Harry and Meghan Markle toured there (with their son Prince Archie as a baby) in September 2019. Prince William returned to public duties earlier this week after taking time off to help Princess Kate amid her recovery. Over the coming week or so, he will be helping look after the couples three children during their half-term vacation from school, which starts this weekend. Samir Hussein/WireImage Kate Middleton and Prince William in Boston at the 2022 Earthshot Prize awards As in other years, five winners across five categories Protect & Restore Nature, Clean Our Air, Revive Our Oceans, Build A Waste-Free World and Fix Our Climate will be picked from 15 finalists. That shortlist will be announced in September. Like in Singapore, a week of events around the prize will be held in Cape Town, helping those who are nominated to bond with supporters and share ideas for their own development. Story continues This cycle, there have been 400 nominations from across Africa three times more than in any previous set of nominations the Earthshot Prize says. Hannah Jones, CEO of The Earthshot Prize, said in a statement, "The nominations to The Earthshot Prize remind us that human ingenuity, grit and determination can turn the seemingly impossible into the new normal." "Were delighted to be working with changemakers and partners across Africa to spotlight the incredible innovation emerging across the continent, to convene courageous conversations about scale and finance, and to partner with young creators and filmmakers to tell the story of changemakers across Africa," she added. Chris Jackson/Getty Images Prince William -- Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Lawrence Wong speaks with Dr Isabelle Lackman, Co-Founder and Director of Hutan, 2022 Earthshot Prize Finalist -- during one of his outings in Singapore in Nov. 2023 Related: Prince William Pens Foreword for New Book Inspiring Next Generation of Climate Changemakers (Exclusive) The prize doesnt just help the winners with an initial monetary reward. The cohorts, and the finalists, become part of a network where they are given advice and the means the scale up their projects. And it is having a great success, the Earthshot Prize says. The first three cohorts of 45 finalists have already driven incredible impact to repair and regenerate our planet with more than 1.5 million people benefiting directly from their solutions, it announced on Friday. Over 7,000 hectares of land and almost 2.1 million hectares of ocean have been protected or restored, while over 35,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions have been reduced, avoided or sequestered. The Prizes 2023 Finalists, announced this past autumn, are well on their way to creating similar impact. The Earthshot Prize The Earthshot Prize is heading to Cape Town Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more! Before he headed to Singapore, last December, Prince William visited New York as a prelude to the last prize ceremony. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. President Joe Biden willfully retained and disclosed highly classified materials when he was a private citizen, but the Justice Department nonetheless says no criminal charges are warranted for him or anyone else. SIOUX CITY Upon hearing the news of Wells Enterprises being acquired by Ferrero, business leaders and political figures from across the region were uniformly positive. "I want to express my gratitude to Mike Wells and his family for insisting that Iowa remain the home of Wells Enterprises including its facilities, products, and people as the business begins this new chapter," Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds said in a statement. "I appreciate Mikes continued dedication to the community of Le Mars and look forward to meeting the new leadership soon." Le Mars Mayor Rob Bixenman said the transaction provides the potential for manufacturing growth in the city, and he had no concerns that the sale could lead to future plant closures and job losses. "We're very appreciative of Wells searching out this particular buyer because they're not in the ice cream business. We really feel like it's an opportunity for Wells to grow here," Bixenman said. Because Ferrero is an international group, the sale opens up international markets for Blue Bunny ice cream and other Wells products. Bixenman was optimistic that could lead to increased sales and production and an expansion of Wells' existing facilities in Le Mars. "It puts us on the global stage in ice cream," he said. "Certainly, giving us the opportunity to market our products worldwide now gives us the chance to prove we are the ice cream capital of the world." 2021 Tri-State Governors' Conference Wells Enterprises President and CEO Mike Wells speaks during the Tri-State Governors' Conference in South Sioux City on July 12. Wells told Go Should Ferrero candies or other products become ingredients in Blue Bunny ice cream products, the sale also holds potential that Ferrero may choose to move manufacturing of some of its products to Le Mars, Bixenman said. Aside from creating jobs at its plants and numerous related supporting industries such as trucking, packaging and cold storage, Wells also has been a philanthropic giant in Le Mars, supporting numerous charities and making donations to several fundraising campaigns over the years. Bixenman said he hasn't met with Ferrero representatives, but said Mike Wells has assured him the new owners would continue to fund Wells' commitments. "I feel very confident it will continue," Bixenman said. "Mike assured me those philanthropic dollars were written into the (sale) agreement. They're very community-minded." Chris McGowan Mug Chris McGowan, president of the Siouxland Chamber of Commerce and The Siouxland Initiative is shown with a copy of the delegate's position pap Siouxland Chamber of Commerce President Chris McGowan called Wells "an outstanding corporate citizen for over a century" in a statement provided to The Journal. McGowan noted that he didn't expect that to change in any way. "I know that their executive leadership team has declined countless offers, over the years, because they wanted to be certain that any entity that acquired the company would share their values, as well as their commitment to our community. Clearly, the key decision makers feel that they have located the ideal partner in the family-owned Ferrero Group which has indicated that Wells will remain a stand-alone business with offices in Le Mars," he said. COLLECTION: The Journal's photos of Wells Enterprises throughout the years Close Wells Enterprises CEO Mike Well, left, Rob Kelly, CEO of Make-A-Wish Iowa and NASCAR driver Jimmy Johnson, prepare to unveil a special helmet during a media event held Thursday, March 21, 2013, at the Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor and Museum in Le Mars. Five-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Jimmy Johnson announced that Wells Enterprises, the maker of Blue Bunny ice cream, is the title sponsor of his foundation's Helmet of Hope charity. The first charity to receive a $10,000 grant is Make-A-Wish of Iowa. NASCAR driver Jimmy Johnson, unveils a special helmet during a media event held Thursday, March 21, 2013, at the Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor and Museum in Le Mars. Behind is Rob Kelly, CEO of Make-A-Wish Iowa. Johnson, a five-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion, announced that Wells Enterprises, the maker of Blue Bunny ice cream, is the title sponsor of his foundation's Helmet of Hope charity. The first charity to receive a $10,000 grant is Make-A-Wish of Iowa. NASCAR driver Jimmy Johnson talks about a special helmet during a media event held Thursday, March 21, 2013, at the Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor and Museum in Le Mars. At right is Rob Kelly, CEO of Make-A-Wish Iowa. Johnson, the five-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion, announced that Wells Enterprises, the maker of Blue Bunny ice cream, is the title sponsor of his foundation's Helmet of Hope charity. The first charity to receive a $10,000 grant is Make-A-Wish of Iowa. Jimmy Johnson's Helmet of Hope helmet is shown during a media event held Thursday, March 21, 2013, at the Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor and Museum in Le Mars. Five-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Jimmy Johnson announced that Wells Enterprises, the maker of Blue Bunny ice cream, is the title sponsor of his foundation's Helmet of Hope charity. The first charity to receive a $10,000 grant is Make-A-Wish of Iowa. NASCAR diver Jimmy Johnson serves a sundae to Make-A-Wish recipient Brady Baker of Sioux City as his mother, Stacia, look on during a media event held Thursday, March 21, 2013, at the Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor and Museum in Le Mars. Five-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Jimmy Johnson announced that Wells Enterprises, the maker of Blue Bunny ice cream, is the title sponsor of his foundation's Helmet of Hope charity. The first charity to receive a $10,000 grant is Make-A-Wish of Iowa. NASCAR driver Jimmy Johnson serves a sundae to Make-A-Wish recipient Jacob Nichol of Sergeant Bluff, Iowa, as mother Karen Nichol looks on during a media event held Thursday, March 21, 2013, at the Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor and Museum in Le Mars. Five-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Jimmy Johnson announced that Wells Enterprises, the maker of Blue Bunny ice cream, is the title sponsor of his foundation's Helmet of Hope charity. The first charity to receive a $10,000 grant is Make-A-Wish of Iowa. A gallon of Blue Bunny-branded milk whole milk is shown next to a Blue Bunny and Land O Lakes co-branded 2% mikl in the dairy section of Sioux City's Gordon Drive HyVee Thursday, Jan. 15, 2009. Blue Bunny-branded milk will cease to be sold in the aftermath of Wells Dairy's sale of its milk division to Dean Foods last year. Bottles of Blue Bunny-branded milk is shown in the dairy section of Sioux City's Gordon Drive HyVee Thursday, Jan. 15, 2009. Blue Bunny-branded milk will cease to be sold in the aftermath of Wells Dairy's sale of its milk division to Dean Foods last year. Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor and Museum grand opening in Le Mars Friday, June 17, 2011. Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor and Museum grand opening in Le Mars Friday, June 17, 2011. jackie Montagne, Sioux City, feeds ice cream to her 16-month-old sone Jace during the Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor and Museum grand opening in Le Mars Friday, June 17, 2011. Kevin VanOterloo, 9, Le Mars, eats an ice cream coane during the Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor and Museum grand opening in Le Mars Friday, June 17, 2011. People walk down the grand staircase during the Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor and Museum grand opening in Le Mars Friday, June 17, 2011. Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor and Museum grand opening in Le Mars Friday, June 17, 2011. Amy Isebrnd, Katrina Engebretson and Crystal Eppling eat ice cream during the Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor and Museum grand opening in Le Mars Friday, June 17, 2011. Katrina Engebretson eats ice cream during the Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor and Museum grand opening in Le Mars Friday, June 17, 2011. People walk down the grand staircase during the Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor and Museum grand opening in Le Mars Friday, June 17, 2011. Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor and Museum grand opening in Le Mars Friday, June 17, 2011. Eric Isebrand looks at museum displays during the Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor and Museum grand opening in Le Mars Friday, June 17, 2011. Customers line up for ice cream during the Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor and Museum grand opening in Le Mars Friday, June 17, 2011. Customers sit at the counter during the Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor and Museum grand opening in Le Mars Friday, June 17, 2011. Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor and Museum grand opening in Le Mars Friday, June 17, 2011. A triple scoop ice cream cone made of, from top, mint chocolate chip, Wildberry Safari and Monsters Inc. Bubblegum is shown at the Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor in LeMars, Iowa, Monday, April 4, 2005. JeanAnn Weiland builds an ice cream cone at the Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor in LeMars, Iowa, Monday, April 4, 2005. Wells Dairy family member Doug Wells, center, talks with Le Mars Business Initiative Corp. president Jeff Peters, left, and Northwest REC board director Lyle Korver, right, after a groundbreaking ceremony for the company's new corporate office complex south and west of Le Mars, Iowa, Monday June 27, 2005. Doris Beitelspacher slides a tray containing two samples of strawberry-flavored Blue Bunny ice cream to Amanda Susemihl, a member of a sensory panel that tasted the samples at the Wells Corporate Center, Wells Enterprises Inc., near Le Mars, Iowa, on Wednesday, March 30, 2011. Lauren Wallace examines a survey question on the computer screen after tasting a type of Blue Bunny strawberry ice cream as part of a sensory panel exercise at Wells Corporate Center, Wells Enterprises Inc., near Le Mars, Iowa, on Wednesday, March 30, 2011. Natasha Sim, a sensory panel participant, tastes a kind of Blue Bunny strawberry ice cream at Wells Corporate Center, Wells Enterprises Inc., near Le Mars, Iowa, on Wednesday, March 30, 2011. Wells Dairy family members along with other dignitaries perform the ubiquitous shoveling during a groundbreaking ceremony for the new corporate office complex south and west of Le Mars Monday June 27, 2005. Bunny shovels for the the Wells Dairy groundbreaking ceremony for the new corporate office complex south and west of Le Mars Monday June 27, 2005. 2008 Republican presidential hopeful former Mass. Giv. Mitt Romney makes gestures while greeting potential caucus-goers at the Well's Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor in LeMars, Iowa, Thursday afternoon, May 31, 200. At right is Carol Schultz of Marathon, Iowa. 2008 Republican presidential hopeful former Mass. Giv. Mitt Romney takes a drink from a chocolate malt while meeting potential caucus-goers at the Well's Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor in LeMars, Iowa, Thursday afternoon, May 31, 2007. Retired Wells Dairy employee Milo F. Manning eats a strawberry sundae Thursday, Sept. 23, 1999, at the Wells Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor, as a worker arranges plants in preparation for the parlor and adjacent welcome center's ribbon cutting. Wells' Dairy public relation director Dave Smetter is reflected in a vintage mirror at the Well's Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor in Le Mars Thursday, Sept. 23, 1999. Gallons of Wells Blue Bunny milk are shown at the Marketplace Hy-Vee store in Sioux City. Wells Dairy recently sold its milk plant to Dean Foods. As part of the sale, Dallas, Texas-based Dean, the nations largest dairy processor, gained limited rights to marketing Blue Bunny branded milk and yogurt. The Wells Dairy ice cream parlor and Ice Cream Capital of the World Visitors Center is currently in this strip center on Business Highway 75 west of downtown Le Mars. It will be moving to a new, larger location in downtown Le Mars sometime in early 2011. Wells Dairy will renovate this 1870s building at 115 Central Avenue NW in downtown Le Mars to hold its 1920s style ice cream parlor and museum exhibits and the Ice Cream Capital of the World Visitors Center. It will make the move in early 2011. Wells Dairy will renovate this 1870s building at 115 Central Avenue NW in downtown Le Mars to hold its 1920s style ice cream parlor and museum exhibits and the Ice Cream Capital of the World Visitors Center. It will make the move in early 2011. The Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor and Museum in Le Mars, Iowa, will move in June to the historic George E. Pew Company building. The two-story downtown structure, which dates to the 1870s, is being extensively renovated. Workers lift a sheet of plywood up an opening to the second floor of the George E. Pew Company building, which is being renovated as the Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor and Museum. The old-fashioned parlor is scheduled to move to the downtown site in Le Mars in June. Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2006 The new Wells Dairy corporate office complex is shown under construction southwest of LeMars. A worker smooths cement Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2006, at the new Wells Dairy corporate office complex under construction southwest of LeMars. Lisa Newton, Wells Enterprises' senior manager of talent acquisition, stits at a computer kiosk Friday, July 8, 2021, at the Le Mars, Iowa,-based company's Sioux City recruitment offices. The company, maker of Blue Bunny ice cream and frozen novelties, is among the many who is having a difficult time filling job opening. 2012 Republican presidential hopeful and former US Senator from Pennsylvania, Rick Santorum laughs while speaking to a group of women while campaigning at the Wells' Blue Bunny Ice cream parlor in LeMars, Iowa, Monday, June 27, 2012. Dean Fiihr, Iowa House 515-281-0817PHOTO CAPTION: State Representative Wes Whitead, far left, looks on as Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack signs Senate File 2290, an economic growth package that includes new incentives for companies in leasing arrangements for construction or expansion projects. The bill passed the Iowa House and Senate yesterday and was signed in to law Wednesday morning in an effort to keep the Wells Blue Bunny expansion in Iowa. Shown in the photo, front row from left to right, Rep. Whitead, Rep. Doug Struyk of Council Bluffs, Rep. Clarence Hoffman of Charter Oak, and Rep. Ralph Klemme of Le Mars. Wells Dairy north ice ceam plant manager Lyle Loutsch displays a 48-ounce containter of Disney Lion King Triples ice cream. The ice cream features three different chocolate flavors and three different kinds of character shaped candies. Loutsch is shown at the LeMars plant Tuesday, May 20, 2003. A 48-ounce container of Disney Lion King Triples ice cream is filled at the Wells Dairy north ice cream plant Tuesday, May 20, 2003. The ice cream features three different chocolate flavors and three different kinds of character shaped candies. Wells Dairy north ice ceam plant manager Lyle Loutsch displays the three charactor-shaped candies that will be mixed into Disney Lion King Triples ice cream. The ice cream features three different chocolate flavors and three different kinds of character shaped candies. Loutsch is shown at the LeMars plant Tuesday, May 20, 2003. Doug Wells, left, chief operating officer for Wells Dairy, In Le Mars, Iowa, talks with St. George, Utah, city council member Larry Gardner, right, after touring the newly operational plant that Wells Dairy built in Utah, while enjoying a strawberry sundae crunch ice cream bar, Sept. 8, 2003. Two cold warehouse workers for Wells Dairy in St. George, Utah, stack Blue Bunny ice cream half gallon containers onto pallets Sept. 8, 2003, for storage in the company's newly built plant in the western state, for future orders for ice cream in the western part of the United States. Wells Dairy Chief Operating Officer Doug Wells, left, talks with St. George, Utah, Mayor David McArthur, right, Sept. 8, 2003, during a tour of Wells Dairy's newly built production plant in that state. Wells Dairy CIP employee Kevin Schumacher cleans holding tanks, Sept, 8, 2003, that holds pasteurized milk used in making Blue Bunny ice cream products. Schumacher transfered from Le Mars, Iowa, to the company's newly built plant in St. George, Utah. St. George, Utah, Wells Dairy employee Clint Rogers, left, cleans a holding tank and area, Septl, 8, 2003, for incoming raw products at the company's new ice cream production plant. The company's new plant started production the end of July, 2003. Wells Dair Chief Operating Officer Doug Wells looks up into the Intec area, Sept. 8, 2003, where a quick freeze process hardens the newly made ice cream in the St. George, Utah, plant the company recently brought on-line. Wells Dairy recently began ice cream production in St. George, Utah, in a new $55 million production plant to fill its orders in the western part of the United States. Sept. 8, 2003. Wells Dairy Chief Operating Officer Doug Wells, right, talks with local business leaders about the ice cream production plant's progress so far in St. George, Utah, Sept. 8, 2003. Wells Dairy St. George, Utah, plant manager Paul Broadhead, right, answers questions for local area businessmen and media about the current production for the newly opened plant, Sept.8, 2003. Wells Dairy Chief Operating Officer Doug Wells, second from right and Vice President of Operations Roger Vincent, right, listen to Intec Operator Micah Shumway, far left, along with Washington County, Utah, Dixie Escalante Electric director of governmental affairs Royce Jones, second from left, about the quick freeze method used to begin the freezing process at the company's new ice cream production plant in St. George, Utah, Sept 8, 2003. Wells Dairy employee Mike Gazafy moves Blue Bunny ice cream from his palette as he works in the huge minus 38 degree cold storage room that ice cream products are stored until shipping at the St. George, Utah, plant, Sept. 8, 2003. St. George, Utah, Wells Dairy plant manager Paul Broadhead, in blue hard hat, talks with local business people and media about the minus 38 degree cold storage area at the newly opened ice cream production plant Sept. 8, 2003. Wells Dairy Vice President of Operations Roger Vicent, left, talks with realtor Ray Rosenthal during a media day at the newly opened ice cream production plant in St. George, Utah, Sept. 8, 2003. Wells Dairy St. George, Utah, plant manager Paul Broadhead talks about the production facility Sept. 8, 2003, at the new ice cream production plant that recently started operations in late July, 2003. Former Wells Dairy corporate office building in Le Mars, Iowa, is shown in this undated file photo. Andrew Wells is a great grandson of the founders of Wells Dairy, and the tour group coordinator for the Blue Bunny Museum, seen Monday, June 9, 2008, at the Le Mars, Iowa, business. Andrew Wells, right, great grandson of the founders of Wells Dairy, is the tour group coordinator for the Blue Bunny Museum, and leads the Northside United Methodist Church group from Atlanta, Georgia, Monday, June 9, 2008, into the museum as he gives them a tour and talks about the history of the largest ice cream company in the world. Andrew Wells, right, great grandson of the founders of Wells Dairy, is the tour group coordinator for the Blue Bunny Museum, and talks with the Northside United Methodist Church group from Atlanta, Georgia, Monday, June 9, 2008, as he gives them a tour and talks about the history of the largest ice cream company in the world. Andrew Wells, left, great grandson of the founders of Wells Dairy, is the tour group coordinator for the Blue Bunny Museum, and talks with the Northside United Methodist Church group from Atlanta, Georgia, Monday, June 9, 2008, as he gives them a tour and talks about the history of the largest ice cream company in the world. Andrew Wells, center, great grandson of the founders of Wells Dairy, is the tour group coordinator for the Blue Bunny Museum, and leads the Northside United Methodist Church group from Atlanta, Georgia, Monday, June 9, 2008, as he gives them a tour and talks about the history of the largest ice cream company in the world. Andrew Wells, right, great grandson of the founders of Wells Dairy, is the tour group coordinator for the Blue Bunny Museum, and talks with the Northside United Methodist Church group from Atlanta, Georgia, Monday, June 9, 2008, as he gives them a tour and talks about the history of the largest ice cream company in the world. Wells Dairy Blue Bunny employees and guests listen to speakers early Wednesday afternoon, Oct. 25, 2006, address the opening of the company's new corporate headquarters located on the outskirts of Le Mars in the city's industrial park. Wells' family members, Doug, left, Greg, in black shirt, second from right, and Mike, right, listen at Gary Wells addresses Wells Dairy Blue Bunny employees and guests early Wednesday afternoon, Oct. 25, 2006, address the opening of the company's new corporate headquarters located on the outskirts of Le Mars in the city's industrial park. Wells Dairy Blue Bunny employees and guests are silhouetted against a glass wall as they listen to speakers early Wednesday afternoon, Oct. 25, 2006, during the opening of the company's new corporate headquarters located on the outskirts of Le Mars in the city's industrial park, which is seen in the background outside. Wells Dairy Blue Bunny CEO Gary Wells addresses employees and guests early Wednesday afternoon, Oct. 25, 2006, at the opening of the company's new corporate headquarters located on the outskirts of Le Mars in the city's industrial park. Dan Wells, left, shakes Doug Wells' hand as Wells Dairy Inc. CEO Gary Wells announces the company's headquarters will stay in LeMars during a press conference in LeMars Wednesday, April, 28, 2004. Wells family members making the announcement are, from left, Dan, Doug, Greg, Gary, Mike, Faye and Fred Wells. At far right is Iowa Gov. Tom Vilsack. John Kennedy, Wells Dairy culinologist, stands in the commercial grade kitchen Tuesday, March 6, 2007, at Wells Dairy's corporate headquarters' research area in LeMars, Iowa. John Kennedy, Wells Dairy culinologist, displays ice crean "shot glasses" Tuesday, March 6, 2007, that are being developed at Wells Dairy's corporate headquarters in LeMars, Iowa. Wells Dairy research and development team member Logan Julstrom takes notes while working on a developmental product Tuesday, March 6, 2007, at Wells Dairy's corporate headquarters in LeMars, Iowa. Wells Dairy research and development team member Logan Julstrom adds flavoring to ice cream Tuesday, March 6, 2007, at Wells Dairy's corporate headquarters in LeMars, Iowa. Wells Dairy research and development team member Mary Kuster works on a developmental product Tuesday, March 6, 2007, at Wells Dairy's corporate headquarters in LeMars, Iowa. Wells Dairy senior director of research and development Thomas Aurand stands in a blast freezer Tuesday, March 6, 2007, at Wells Dairy's corporate headquarters in LeMars, Iowa. Iris Hemmingson, Le Mars, looks over the color of a couple samples of ice cream during a discussion period where she and other members of the public did a test tasting at Wells Dairy's Technical Center Wednesday Aug. 10, 2005. Judy Brouwer, Le Mars, pauses as she tastes an ice cream sample during a test tasting at Wells Dairy Technical Center Aug 10, 2005, in Le Mars, as Joan Yoerger, Merrill, background, makes notes after tasting the same sample. Flanked by a giant ice cream cone and ice cream sandwich, Wells Enterprises' vice-president of retail sales Adam Baumgartner speaks during a media tour of the remodeled Wells Visitor Center & Ice Cream Parlor Thursday June 6, 2019, in downtown Le Mars, Iowa. Wells, the maker of Blue Bunny brand ice cream, closed the ice cream parlor last year for renovations to increase its seating capacity and to add an event space. The visitor's center opens to the public on Saturday. Two new menu items, a monster peanut butter cup sundae and a lemon meringue float are displayed during a media tour of the remodeled Wells Visitor Center & Ice Cream Parlor Thursday June 6, 2019, in downtown Le Mars, Iowa. Wells, the maker of Blue Bunny brand ice cream, closed the ice cream parlor last year for renovations to increase its seating capacity and to add an event space. The visitor's center opens to the public on Saturday. The Wells Visitor Center & Ice Cream Parlor will be a popular place during Le Mars, Iowa's Ice Cream Days. Ryan Coyle, Wells corporate communications specialist, stands at an interactive video display during a media tour of the remodeled Wells Visitor Center & Ice Cream Parlor Thursday June 6, 2019, in downtown Le Mars, Iowa. Wells, the maker of Blue Bunny brand ice cream, closed the ice cream parlor last year for renovations to increase its seating capacity and to add an event space. The visitor's center opens to the public on Saturday. A theater showing a movie outlining the history of the company is shown during a media tour of the remodeled Wells Visitor Center & Ice Cream Parlor Thursday June 6, 2019, in downtown Le Mars, Iowa. Wells, the maker of Blue Bunny brand ice cream, closed the ice cream parlor last year for renovations to increase its seating capacity and to add an event space. The visitor's center opens to the public on Saturday. Todd Eschweiler of Ankeny hands an ice cream cone to his daughter, Audrey, 9, and Paige 6, as employees Sophie Bixenman and Kody Koerselman make cones in the remodeled Wells Visitor Center & Ice Cream Parlor Thursday June 6, 2019, in downtown Le Mars, Iowa. In the foreground is Paige Eschweiler, 6. Wells, the maker of Blue Bunny brand ice cream, closed the ice cream parlor last year for renovations to increase its seating capacity and to add an event space. The visitor's center opens to the public on Saturday. Wells Visitor Center & Ice Cream Parlor employee Kody Koerselman hands an ice cream cone to Todd Eschweiler of Ankeny while visiting with his daughters Audrey, 9, and Paige 6, in a 2019 file photo. Also behind the counter is worker Sophie Bixenman. A cherry soda at the Blue Bunny ice cream shop in Le Mars Monday, June 18, 2001. +91 +91 +91 +91 +91 +91 +91 +91 +91 +91 WHITING, Iowa This summer, Siouxland residents should beware of roving bands of children with farm tools and dead eyes. On Saturday, July 13th, the town of Whiting, Iowa is hosting an event to mark the 40th anniversary of film adaptation of "Children of the Corn." Though the movie was framed as being set in Gatlin, Nebraska, it was largely shot in Hornick, Salix, Sergeant Bluff and Whiting in fall 1983 before being released the following spring. The event's been organized by Kenny Caperton who promotes "On Set Cinema" which allows people to see movies where they were actually filmed. For the anniversary, Caperton said actor Courtney Gains, who played Malachai, one of the most-prominent members of the movie's underage cult, will be be doing an autograph signing, Q&A and photo op by the town flagpole which is captured in several scenes of "Children of the Corn." According to Caperton, it will the first time Gains has visited Whiting since the filming took place. "This is going to be an incredible way to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of one of the greatest horror movies of all time! Just remember, Malachai will be watching you and any unbelievers or profaners of the holy will be sacrificed unto Him ... He Who Walks Behind The Rows Seeth All," Caperton said in a release from the event. Spanish language promotional for 'Children of the Corn' A Spanish-language promotional piece for the "Children of the Corn" film. In additional to Spanish and German posters, John Sullivan, an exper Along with Gains' appearance, the anniversary celebration will also include local food vendors and location tours with "Children of the Corn" historian John Sullivan. A bus tour will bounce around filming locations in Hornick and Salix and a walking tour will snake through downtown Whiting. Festivities are slated to kick off at 10:30 a.m. with the bus tour and the given location to gather at is 520 Whittier St., Whiting. That tour is scheduled to last until 1 p.m. And then, beginning at 7 p.m., there will be an event check-in for general ticket holders. Gains will be signing autographs until 8:30 p.m. while Sullivan will be giving his downtown tour from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. The flagpole photo op is listed for 8:45 p.m. with a Q&A at 9 p.m. and then the screening of the 1984 film at 9:30 p.m. According to Caperton, online tickets for the downtown tour, Q&A and outdoor screening run $30 and can be found at: myershousenc.com/onsetcinema. Local Iowa residents can buy $20 tickets (cash only) at Whiting City Hall and that includes access to the downtown tour, the Q&A and the outdoor screening. There's an additional add-on ticket for the bus tour. This will now be the third, non-consecutive year for a "On Set Cinema" takeover of Whiting. In 2021 and 2022, a number of area residents, who appeared as extras in the film, turned out for the event. Children of the Corn A early movie poster in the form of a child's drawing is shown for the 1984 production of "Children of the Corn." During an era of discrimination and segregation, Dr. William Montague Cobb fought racism with science. Cobb was a doctor, an anthropologist, a teacher, an author, an editor, a crusader for civil rights, and so much more. "It's amazing how many things he kept going at the same time," said Dr. Edward Cornwell, a trauma surgeon who considers Cobb a mentor. Cornwell is the former chair of the department of surgery at Howard University's College of Medicine in Washington, D.C. "His intellect was just otherworldly, and his pioneering efforts extended to multiple applications of his scientific and medical knowledge," Cornwell said. Consider these highlights from Cobb's resume: Medical degree from Howard, and a doctorate in physical anthropology the first African American in the country to earn that degree from what is now Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland. Professor of anatomy at Howard for nearly half a century, much of that time as department chair. He also amassed one of the world's leading collections of skeletons for scientific study. Pioneer in the field of physical anthropology, which focuses on population origin, evolution and diversity, and president of the American Association of Physical Anthropologists from 1957 to 1959. President of the National Medical Association, a leading organization of Black physicians, and editor of its journal from 1949 to 1977. President of the NAACP, the nation's oldest civil rights organization, from 1976 to 1982. Author of five books and more than 1,000 articles in scholarly and popular publications. Then put those achievements against a backdrop of their times, when Black people were barred from many universities and other institutions, Black doctors were prohibited from interning or practicing at many hospitals, and Black scholars battled false scientific contentions that their race made them intellectually inferior. Cobb, who died in 1990 at age 86, "was an exemplar during Jim Crow of the absolute equality of Black people," said Dr. Michael Blakey, a professor of anthropology, Africana Studies and American Studies at the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. "He demonstrated African American excellence in science, he demonstrated that science and activism can empower each other, and he demonstrated the brilliance of African America in the way he led his own life." Cobb was born in 1904 in Washington, D.C., where his father ran a printing business. He graduated from Amherst College in Massachusetts, earned his medical degree from Howard and a Ph.D. from Case Western Reserve, before spending most of his career at Howard. Cobb estimated that he helped train more than 6,000 physicians. Alongside the professional accomplishments was a focus on civil rights. One of Cobb's notable early works, a 1936 article titled "Race and Runners," dispelled the arguments that U.S. Olympic champion Jesse Owens' success was somehow due to African Americans' physical superiority and intellectual inferiority. "Cobb was showing what (19th-century African American leader) Frederick Douglass said 100 years before," said Blakey, who co-wrote a biography of Cobb in 2021. "It's not the biology that determines one's place in society. It's the circumstances in society that determines their biology and their status." Cobb spent a lifetime pushing to improve those circumstances, exposing unequal levels of health care for white and Black people, and campaigning to integrate medical facilities and provide equal opportunities for Black doctors and patients. In 1957, Cobb organized the Imhotep Conference on Hospital Integration to document segregation and press for change. The conference, named for an ancient Egyptian deity traditionally regarded as a physician, continued annually until the 1964 Civil Rights Act mandated equal access to public facilities that received federal funds, including hospitals. "His efforts in addressing health care disparities were every bit as contributory as his efforts in anatomy and anthropology," Cornwell said. Blakey said that while Cobb was a leading figure in African American medical circles, he was often the sole Black representative at white-dominated meetings and conferences. "He was working between those two worlds," Blakey said. "No matter what he thought, he was collegial and gentlemanly." In 1955, Cobb became a member of the American Heart Association's board of directors. Blakey said Cobb's achievements, and his battle for acceptance, helped pave the way for Black scholars and medical professionals who followed him. "That generation did its job," he said. Cobb and his wife, Hilda, who died in 1976, had two daughters. A Washington Post story about Cobb's death described him as "a persistent and eloquent spokesman in behalf of many civil rights causes" and "a historian of Blacks in medicine." Cornwell said Cobb is one of several luminaries in Howard history whose legacies remain an important part of its medical school. The Cobb Institute, founded in 2004 and named in his honor, promotes research and advocacy aiming to eliminate racial and ethnic health disparities. Blakey and Cornwell, both of whom spent much time with Cobb in his later years, said he remained sharp and engaged, and was not bitter about the obstacles he faced as an African American. "He was too busy to be bitter," Cornwell said. covers heart and brain health. Not all views expressed in this story reflect the official position of the American Heart Association. Copyright is owned or held by the American Heart Association, Inc., and all rights are reserved. SIOUX CITY The Sioux City Journal took third place for general excellence among the state's largest newspapers at the Iowa Newspaper Association's 2024 Iowa Better Newspaper Contest Thursday night. The Journal won a total of 17 awards in the INA's Better Newspaper Contest, including first place for Best Website siouxcityjournal.com Reporter Nick Hytreks three-part series on the 2022 fatal police shooting of Michael Meredith in Sergeant Bluff placed first in the Best Feature Story category. Hytrek also placed third in the Master Columnist category. The Journal won second place awards in seven news categories: Best Editorial Pages, Total Newspaper Design, Coverage of Business, Coverage of Education, Coverage of Crime and Courts and Best Podcast. Editor Bruce Miller and managing editor Dave Dreeszen were honored for the editorial pages. Reporter Caitlin Yamada led the education coverage, reporter Dolly Butz and Hytrek were honored for the courts and crime coverage and reporters Mason Dockter, Jared McNett and Dreeszen contributed to the business coverage. The latter was for the Journal's "Streamed and Screened" podcast, which features Miller and Terry Lipshetz, was the recipient of the podcast award. McNett was a part of the "On Iowa Politics Podcast" which took first place for the Cedar Rapids Gazette. The Journal's third place awards included Best Use of Graphics, Best Features pages and Best Headline Writing. "It is so rewarding to see the INA recognize The Journal during a year of change," Miller said. "The breadth of categories in which we were recognized says were excelling in a multitude of areas. It reminds us how important it is to give readers the stories they need and want. Were grateful, too, to the readers who enable us to do the kind of work we love." The Journal also finished third in the Best of Class Advertising category after winning a first-place award for Best Advertising Idea for a Community Project or Event and a third-place honor for Best Advertising Series of Campaign Featuring Any Service or Merchandise Event. In the General Excellence category, based on the most overall points awarded for first-, second- and third-place awards in all the contest categories, the Journal placed third behind only the the states two largest papers, the Cedar Rapids Gazette and Des Moines Register. The Journal finished five points behind the Register for second place. Overall, the Journal placed ninth in the Newspaper of the Year race, based on most overall contest points among all papers, regardless of circulation and frequency of publication. The Iowa Falls Times Citizen received the 2024 Newspaper of the Year at the award ceremony at the Marriot in downtown Des Moines. SIOUX CITY A man charged with robbing a downtown Sioux City bank has pleaded not guilty. Jonathan Birdnecklace, 31, of Sioux City, entered his written plea Friday in Woodbury County District Court to second-degree robbery. Birdnecklace is accused of entering Great Southern Bank, 329 Pierce St., on Jan. 23 and handing the teller a check that had a note on it saying, "Push the alarm and I will know I will shoot you. Pretend to chash (sic). 15,000 No games I will know and I will shoot you." According to court documents, the teller gave the robber $2,405 and he left the business. Court documents did not say if the suspect possessed or displayed a weapon during the robbery. Police arrested Birdnecklace later in the day, and he had approximately $1,900 in his possession. According to court documents, he admitted to police during an interview after his arrest that he had robbed the bank, and the money found on him had come from the bank. Birdnecklace had been released from prison less than two weeks earlier after completing his sentence for robbing the same bank in 2014. WAYNE, Neb. A rural Wisner, Nebraska, man has pleaded not guilty of fatally shooting his father. Carl Ruskamp, 31, entered his plea Wednesday in Wayne County District Court to charges of first-degree murder, use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony and possession of a deadly weapon by a felon. Trial was scheduled for May 21. 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 on Sept. 7, 2022, and found Gerald Ruskamp with a gunshot wound to the back of his head. He was pronounced dead at a local hospital. 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. Authorities who searched Carl Ruskamp's phone found a threatening text message he had sent to his father. His google search history also included items such as "bullet in brain." While investigating the shooting, authorities found a marijuana-growing operation on the property and charged Carl Ruskamp with manufacturing a controlled substance. He previously pleaded not guilty and awaits trial on that charge. SIOUX CITY The Sioux City School Board plans to discuss the impact of a proposed teacher pay increase from the Iowa Legislature on Monday. Reynolds is asking the Iowa Legislature to increase starting teacher pay to $50,000, and to set a minimum salary of $62,000 for teachers with at least 12 years of experience. The Sioux City Schools estimates that 163 teachers will see a minimum salary increase due to the pending legislation, with around 40 seeing the largest increases to $50,000. School Board President Jan George said the purpose of the work session on Monday is to discuss the history and rationale of the district's teacher salary schedule, identify the impact teacher salaries have year to year, and to understand what the pay proposal is. Staffing makes up more than 80 percent of the district's $240 million budget. Last year, the teachers represented by the Sioux City Education Association, received a $745 increase to the base salary, a 4 percent increase, from $37,966 to $38,711 for teachers base salary for the current year. Teacher pay varies based on the degrees they hold and longevity with the district. Currently, the starting salary for Sioux City teachers with a bachelor's degree is $44,800. George said starting salaries range from $44,000 to $46,000. Reynolds, during the Iowa Condition of the State Address said she was asking the Iowa Legislature to increase state starting teacher pay by 50 percent to $50,000. Current minimum starting teacher pay in Iowa is $33,500. The teacher pay increase is tied into a bill that would drastically change how the Area Education Agencies operate in Iowa. Previously, the school board members expressed concerns with the inclusion of teacher pay in the bill. "It smacks of that the AEA change is going to be so consequential in a negative way that the only way we can get the voting public in the legislature to go along with it is to offer something like increased teacher pay," Board Member Lance Ehmcke said previously. Board Vice President Treyla Lee said it appears the teacher salary was "a little carrot" in the bill as a reward for passing the AEA changes. "I question the motive of putting that little carrot into this," she said. Board Member Dan Greenwell said the minimum salaries are great but are a significant increase for the district to absorb. On this weeks episode, we will discuss Gov. Kim Reynolds gender ID bill, a proposal to put Rs and Ds on local elections, and Big Library comes out in numbers to oppose legislation at the Iowa Capitol. Plus, On Iowa Politics Podcast took first place in the largest division for Best Podcast at the annual Iowa Newspaper Association convention. On the podcast this week: Gazette Des Moines Bureau Chief Erin Murphy, Gazette Deputy Bureau Chief Tom Barton, Lee Des Moines Bureau Chief Caleb McCullough, Jared McNett of the Sioux City Journal, and Gazette columnist Todd Dorman. On Iowa Politics is a weekly news and analysis podcast that aims to re-create the kinds of conversations that happen when you get political reporters from across Iowa together after the day's deadlines have been met. This episode was produced by Bailey Cichon. The episode's introduction music is "Chillin' with Jeris" by Copperhead. This episode's outro music is "Free" by Tone Da Boss. SOUTH SIOUX CITY -- Whenever Marty Hogan thinks of George Everette "Bud" Day, he remembers a man of great faith, modesty and character. "He lived his life with a code of conduct," Hogan, a U.S. Air Force veteran, said of Day, a Sioux City native and decorated veteran of World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. "He was the type of person who could inspire people." Day, who spent five-and-a-half years as a prisoner-of-war during the Vietnam War, worked diligently on the behalf of fellow prisoners-of-war as did his beloved wife Doris. Brig. Gen. Bud Day exhibit Marty Hogan, Siouxland Freedom Park board member, holds a POW bumper sticker Thursday at an exhibit honoring Sioux City native Brig. Gen. Bud The 3,700-square-foot Brigadier General Bud and Doris Day Interpretive Center is the centerpiece of Siouxland Freedom Park, 1810 Veterans Drive. The center was named after Day, who died in 2013. A temporary Bud Day exhibit has been add to the Interpretive Center to commemorate what would've been his 99th birthday. "Bud's birthday will be on Feb. 24, 2024," Hogan, a Siouxland Freedom Park Board Member, explained. "The display, which will on up for the entire month of February, will honor Bud and his family with both personal photos and pieces of memorabilia." First opened in November, the Interpretive Center features interactive displays, artifacts and exhibits which share the powerful, personal stories of Siouxland veterans through each phase of the military cycle from enlistment, life in uniform, leaving homecoming home and reintegration and adjustment. "What I like best is that our center is all about veterans who called Siouxland their home, whether it be in Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota," Hogan said. Brig. Gen. Bud Day exhibit Marty Hogan, Siouxland Freedom Park board member, gestures Thursday Feb. 8, 2024, while talking about a temporary exhibit honoring Sioux City Indeed, the Bud Day memorabilia was collected by Day's family or from a collection at the Iowa Air National Guard 185th Air Refueling Wing or from Geri Day, a longtime Sioux City educator as well as Bud Day's second cousin. "Geri Day was my fourth grade teacher," Hogan said. "She was probably the one who inspired my love of history." The Interpretive Center from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Saturdays. Plans are currently in the works to include memorabilia of Bud and Doris Day as part of its permanent collection. "It is my hope that young people will be inspired by Bud Day as much as I was," Hogan said. LE MARS, Iowa Wells Enterprises, the second-largest ice cream maker in the U.S. and the source of Le Mars' ice cream-centric identity, is ending more than a century of ownership by the Wells family. A merger between Wells, maker of Blue Bunny ice cream, and the Italian confectioner Ferrero, maker of Nutella, was announced Wednesday. Mike Wells, the CEO and the last remaining member of the Wells family actively involved in the company, will step aside and serve in a somewhat more informal advisory role; Liam Killeen, who was named president of Wells last year, has been named the new CEO. The transaction is expected to close in January. Terms of the deal were not disclosed; because both companies are privately held, there is no legal requirement for them to do so. "Not going to disclose financials, it's the beauty of being private" as Wells put it in an interview with The Journal Wednesday. Mike Wells said that because the companies are not competitors -- up until this transaction, Ferrero was not a major player in the ice cream industry -- the Federal Trade Commission won't have any objections to the deal. "This isn't an ice cream company buying an ice cream company, this is a candy company buying into a category they don't have presence in," he said. Wells Enterprises is expected to maintain a high degree of autonomy within the Ferrero organization, and Mike Wells said that all the company's 2,700 Le Mars employees, both white collar and blue, will retain their positions, their pay and their current titles. The Wells name also will be retained. "When they (Ferrero) purchase companies, they leave them as independent business units," Wells said. "So it will have Wells on the outside of the building, they will utilize all the Wells brands, things like Blue Bunny, Halo Top, Bomb Pop, Blue Ribbon Classics. The management team will have the autonomy to run the business independently. They will report up to an individual inside of Ferrero, but that's the majority of Ferrero's involvement." Ferrero is known mainly for non-ice cream products like the hazelnut-based Nutella chocolate spread, Ferrero Rocher chocolate candies and Tic Tac mints, which they brought to market decades ago. The company held only one ice cream maker prior to the Wells acquisition, a small Spanish manufacturer. By way of introduction The relationship between Wells and Ferrero began in 2019, when Mike Wells went to Europe "on an unrelated business trip," and made his introduction to Ferrero. The two firms became interested in producing ice cream products inspired by Ferrero candies. "They loved the way that we were able to interpret their brands in ice cream," Wells said. For the past two or three years, Wells, 63, said he has been trying "to find a solution for the business going forward." He's been the sole member of the Wells family actively involved in the enterprise since 2007. "Since our 100th anniversary in 2013, I've been thinking about what the next 100 years looks like," Wells said. "And how long the family's involvement could stay there, and what the solution would be the for the next 100 years. And so that was really the crux of this transaction." The pandemic slowed down the conversation, but Wells and Ferrero reconnected early this year: "Talked a little bit about their intent, because they'd said they wanted to expand into ice cream." Wells hosted Ferrero head Giovanni Ferrero during Ice Cream Days in June, and it was around that time that Ferrero asked if Wells would be interested in a sale. Still involved in Le Mars Mike Wells said that he felt "extremely honored" to have found a succession-plan solution for the company "that respected and honored our employees, our community, our family and now the Ferrero family." Wells, who is active in several community groups and the Siouxland Chamber of Commerce, and wife Cheryl, proprietor of the Habitue Coffeehouse in downtown Le Mars, plan to continue their civic engagement. "I couldn't be more honored and more happy for the outcome," he added. "A little bit of a bittersweet moment today to announce it and know that it's the end of this chapter for me, and a new chapter for my wife and I as we commit 100 percent of our efforts to our community and community development and things that we've enjoyed doing more on a part-time basis." Le Mars will retain its ice cream identity, Mike Wells said. "Based on their plans for continued growth and investment in this business, all Le Mars can look forward to is manufacturing more ice cream, having a greater reputation around being the Ice Cream Capital of the World, and being a great place to work, live and play," he said. Wells history The Wells ice cream empire began humbly. Family patriarch Fred H. Wells Jr. decided to move his family back to their native Chicago after a drought struck their South Dakota farm in the summer of 1911. En route, the family ran out of money and stopped in Le Mars, where Wells became a hog farmer. Sometime thereafter a cholera outbreak decimated Wells' herd and he needed a new line of work. The company places its founding-date in 1913, when Fred Wells acquired a horse-and-wagon milk-delivery business in Le Mars. By about 1925, Fred Wells and his sons began producing ice cream and were distributing it to Remsen and Alton, Iowa, by the next year, according to Wells Enterprises. In 1927, Harry C. Wells joined his brother Fred in a partnership to distribute ice cream in Sioux City. The following year, the brothers sold that distribution system to Fairmont Ice Cream. As a result, when they decided to sell ice cream again in Sioux City in the mid-1930s, they no longer held the rights to the Wells name. So the company adopted a new brand name -- Blue Bunny, the end result of a "Name that Ice Cream" contest in The Sioux City Journal. In the late 1950s, Fred H. Wells' nephew, Fred D. Wells, along with Fay Wells and Fay's older brothers, Harold, Roy and Mike, formed a partnership. At the time, Blue Bunny was still a regional brand. Toward the end of 1961, Blue Bunny ice cream products were sold in roughly 1,500 retail outlets across parts of Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota and Minnesota. By 1977 Wells Dairy (as it was then called) had absorbed more than 40 small dairies in Northwest Iowa, in the process becoming the largest ice cream manufacturer in the state. At the time it had roughly 350 workers and its distribution area had expanded slightly, to a total of six Midwestern states. In 1991 Blue Bunny products were being test-marketed in Mexico and Japan. At the end of that decade the company was selling its products in all 50 states, plus Puerto Rico and 20 other countries. The variety of Wells' product lines also broadened during this time period -- from roughly 27 frozen dessert products in 1961 to a reported 540 by 1990. By the 1990s, the company's growth led to Le Mars being designated the "Ice Cream Capital of the World." The company's plant capacity underwent several expansions in the 1980s and 1990s. In 1995, the company's sales reached about $500 million, half of which was attributed to the Blue Bunny ice cream label. The company opened an ice cream parlor in Le Mars in 1999. More than a decade later the parlor was moved to its current location, a historic brick building in downtown Le Mars which serves as a sort of public-facing outlet for Wells in the community. When both retired in January 2001, Fay and Fred Wells turned over day-to-day management to their sons, the third generation to run the family business. In 2019, Wells made three major acquisitions, in the process transforming itself into the second-largest ice cream maker in the United States -- Fieldbrook Foods, an East Coast ice cream maker, followed by a Nevada plant purchased from rival Unilever and then Halo Top, a low-sugar, high-protein brand of ice cream. Demand for the company's frozen treats has been white-hot in recent years -- in early 2020, Mike Wells said that the company was using nearly all its capacity in Le Mars. With the pandemic came even greater demand. This spring, the company announced a $70 million capital investment, adding new product lines and upgrading its equipment in Le Mars. Around the same time, the company announced it would take up half of the storage capacity of a new cold-storage warehouse being built in the Southbridge Business Park. Who is Ferrero? Ferrero Executive Chairman Giovanni Ferrero said the combination made a great deal of sense. "I strongly believe that Wells and Ferrero are the perfect match and would like to thank Mike Wells and the Wells family for entrusting ownership of this great company to us," Giovanni Ferrero said in a statement. The Ferrero brand was born in Alba, Italy, in 1946, when Pietro Ferrero crafted a cream of hazelnuts and cocoa. According to Giovanni Ferrero, it was a kind of solidified Nutella that had to be cut with a knife. Nutella in its modern form came about in 1964, according to the BBC. An October 2011 story from The Guardian reported that "For every 100 hazelnuts grown on Earth, 15 end up in a Ferrero product." When former Ferrero owner Michele Ferrero died in February 2015, international news agency Agence France-Presse noted the company "employs more than 22,000 workers" and "has an annual turnover of more than 8 billion euros." The Ferrero North America also lists Baby Ruth, Butterfinger, Crunch, Famous Amos and Keebler as additional products it oversees in the U.S. In 2018, Ferrero acquired Nestle USA's confectionary business. The company initially got a foothold in the American market with Tic Tac in 1969. HOUSTON A Texas man who drugged his wife's drinks in an attempt to induce an abortion was sentenced to 180 days in jail and 10 years of probation. Mason Herring, a 39-year-old Houston attorney, pleaded guilty Wednesday to injury to a child and assault of a pregnant person. He initially was charged with felony assault to induce abortion. Catherine Herring, who filed for divorce, told the court the jail sentence was not long enough. She said their 1-year-old daughter, their third child, was born about 10 weeks premature, has developmental delays and attends therapy eight times a week. "I do not believe that 180 days is justice for attempting to kill your child seven separate times," Catherine Herring said. She told authorities her husband in March 2022 began lecturing her on hydration and offering water. She said she became severely ill after drinking from the first cup that appeared cloudy, which her husband explained was perhaps the result of the cup or water pipes being dirty. Catherine Herring became suspicious and began refusing multiple other drinks her husband offered. She later found in the trash packaging for a drug that contains misoprostol, a medicine used to induce abortion. She also gave police videos from hidden cameras she installed at her home where her husband was no longer living. One of them showed him mixing a substance in one of her drinks, Catherine Herring said. Mason Herring's attorney, Dan Codgell, called the plea deal and sentence reasonable. "It's a sad situation and Mason has accepted his responsibility," Cogdell said. The South and Northeast are leading in youth mental health care, while the Midwest struggles The South and Northeast are leading in youth mental health care, while the Midwest struggles Key findings Top 5 states for youth mental health are clustered in the South and Northeast The Midwest has some of the worst states for youth mental health care LUANG PRABANG, Laos Landlocked Laos doesn't have the famous beaches of its neighbors to attract tourists, but instead relies on the pristine beauty of its mountains and rivers and historical sites to bring in visitors. The crown jewel is Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where legend has it that Buddha once rested during his travels. It brings all the elements together, with its mix of historic Laotian and French colonial architecture on a peninsula at the confluence of the Mekong and the Nam Khan rivers. But a multibillion-dollar dam project underway 15 miles upstream has prompted concerns that it could result in the city losing its UNESCO status, and broader questions about what the government's ambitious plans to build multiple dams across the Mekong will do to the river, the lifeblood of Southeast Asia. When the Luang Prabang Dam is complete, and it's already well under construction, the river is going to trickle into a dead body of water, said Brian Eyler, director of the Washington-based Stimson Center's Southeast Asia Program and its Energy, Water and Sustainability Program. The people going to Luang Prabang as tourists to see the mighty Mekong and see how the Lao people interact with the river, all those interactions are going to be gone all the fishing, meaningful local boating and commerce done by locals on relatively small boats will end. The dam is also being built near an active fault line, and though studies of the design conclude it could withstand an earthquake, local residents are worried. For Som Phone, a 38-year-old tour boat operator and lifelong Luang Prabang resident, memories of the 2018 collapse of another dam in Laos that killed dozens and displaced thousands, blamed on shoddy construction, are still fresh. Many people died, he said. Luang Prabang is not yet on UNESCO's list of endangered World Heritage sites, but the Paris-based agency has outlined a series of concerns, including the protection of historic buildings and the effect of the dam project on protected wetlands and the city's riverbanks, and is awaiting a report back from Laos. Previous studies carried out by the authorities have not yet established whether or not the project could have a negative impact, UNESCO said in an email. The issue is to be discussed by UNESCO in July during its meetings in New Delhi, but in the meantime, the construction continues. The site is a hive of activity, with backhoes tearing shovelfuls of deep red soil from the hills along the river, which are then dumped along with loads of stone into the Mekong to form a foundation. The dam site is within view of the Pak Ou caves, home to hundreds of Buddha statues and a popular side trip for tourists visiting Luang Prabang. Once completed, the project is expected to displace more than 500 families and impact 20 villages. Nestled among the mountains of northern Laos, Luang Prabang was the capital from the 14th to the 16th century before it was moved to Vientiane. Its historic center has numerous Buddhist temples, a former royal palace, buildings from the French colonial era and a mountaintop shrine built around what is said to be Buddha's footprint. Several picturesque waterfalls are within a short drive from the city. A bustling night market boasts stalls selling traditional Lao handicrafts, locally made whisky, as well as trinkets made from fragments of some of the millions of American bombs dropped on the country during the Vietnam conflict in a campaign to try to disrupt communist supply lines. At a vibrant morning market, vendors sell brightly colored peppers, spices, fish and more exotic foods. Many visitors arrive on small river cruise boats, or by train on a new high-speed rail system, built with funding from China as part of its Belt and Road project, which connects Vientiane with the Chinese city of Kunming. It was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995 for its unique, remarkably well-preserved townscape combined with its natural spaces located in the heart of the city and along the riverbanks and wetlands. The Luang Prabang dam is one of nine that Laos plans across the Mekong. Two others already exist, and Laos has also constructed dozens of dams on Mekong tributaries, moving at a rapid pace over about the last 12 years as part of an ambitious government plan to make the country the battery of Southeast Asia by supplying its neighbors with electricity. Laos has relied heavily on foreign funding, primarily from China and Thailand, for the construction, part of the reason it now owes a crippling debt to China that it is struggling to repay. When we think about the Laos battery of Southeast Asia, program, that was really Laos flinging its doors wide open to foreign investors to come in and build dams, said Eyler, who also co-leads the Stimson Center's Mekong Dam Monitor program. The first mainstream dam was the Xayaburi dam, just downstream from Luang Prabang, which began operating in 2019 and has already affected the city, said Philip Hirsch, a professor emeritus of human geography at Sydney University. For tourist Barbara Curti, who came to Luang Prabang to see the real people, the real life of Laos, a new dam could significantly impact the appeal of the city as a destination. They would change too much of the life and the real character of the city, said the 46-year-old Italian, sitting on the banks of the Mekong with a friend. In my opinion, we have to preserve the traditions. Laos crown jewel: Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site Today is Friday, Feb. 9, 2024. Get caught up with today's top headlines and weather. Keep scrolling for celebrity birthdays and a look back at this date in history. Plus, check out our daily news podcast: *** Tucker Carlson interview with Vladimir Putin released Russian President Vladimir Putin used an interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson to urge Washington to recognize Moscow's interests and persuade Ukraine to sit down for talks. Putin also said that Russia stands ready to negotiate a potential prisoner exchange that would free Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who was detained last March on espionage charges he denies, and hinted that Moscow wants the release of its agent imprisoned in Germany. Most of the interview, released Thursday, focused on Ukraine, where the war is nearing the two-year mark. Putin repeated his claim that his invasion of Ukraine, which Kyiv and its allies described as an unprovoked act of aggression, was necessary to protect Russian speakers in Ukraine and prevent the country from posing a threat to Russia by joining NATO. Read more: *** Biden and Trump: How the two classified documents investigations came to different endings The special counsel who concluded that criminal charges were not warranted against President Joe Biden over his handling of classified information says there are clear differences from Donald Trump's case. Special counsel Robert Hur found evidence that Biden willfully retained classified information. But Hur concluded in a report released Thursday that it did not meet the standard for criminal charges. Trump, meanwhile, is accused in his criminal case of not only hoarding classified documents, but also trying to hide them from investigators and working to block the government from clawing them back. Trump has denied any wrongdoing in the case. At look at the similarities and differences between the Biden and Trump investigations: *** The Supreme Court seems poised to reject efforts to kick Trump off the ballot over the Capitol riot The Supreme Court seems poised to reject attempts to kick former President Donald Trump off the 2024 ballot, with conservative and liberal justices in apparent agreement in a case that puts them at the heart of a presidential election. A definitive ruling for Trump, the leading Republican candidate for president, would largely end efforts in Colorado, Maine and elsewhere to prevent his name from appearing on the ballot. The justices could act quickly, possibly by Super Tuesday on March 5, when Colorado, Maine and 13 other states will hold primaries. Here's more on the case: *** MORE TOP STORIES *** MORNING LISTEN "Genius: MLK/X" is a National Geographic series exploring the contrasting approaches of civil rights leaders Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X in achieving their common goals. Bruce Miller talks with Aaron Pierre, who portrays Malcolm X, and Kelvin Harrison Jr., who plays Martin Luther King Jr., as well as producers Gina Prince-Blythewood and Reggie Rock Blythewood. *** TODAY IN HISTORY Today in history: Feb. 9 In 1964, the Beatles made their first live American television appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show, and more events that happened on this day Today in sports history: Feb. 9 In 1992, Magic Johnson, in his return to the court, scores a game-high 25 points to lead the West to victory in the All-Star Game. See more sp *** TODAY'S BIRTHDAYS Celebrity birthdays: Feb. 9 A.J. Buckley Amber Valletta Carole King Charlie Day Jason George Jim Webb Joe Pesci Judith Light Mia Farrow Michael B. Jordan Richard On Rose Leslie Sharon Case Terry McAuliffe Tom Hiddleston Travis Tritt Ziyi Zhang DES MOINES State courts would be permitted to order the deportation of immigrants arrested in Iowa while in the country illegally, and local officials would be given legal immunity when assisting in immigration enforcement measures under a bill advanced in the Iowa Senate. Senate File 2211 would create a state crime for migrants who enter or re-enter the state illegally from another country and would give Iowa law enforcement authority to arrest undocumented immigrants in the state. It also allows state judges the option of ordering some migrants to return to their home country instead of pursuing prosecution. Officers and state agencies would be cleared to transport undocumented migrants to ports of entry to make sure they comply. If migrants refused to comply with an order to return, or those who were ordered to be removed after being convicted of a felony, could be charged with a Class C felony and face up to 10 years in prison and a $13,660 fine. Those whose removal followed being convicted of two or more misdemeanor drug crimes, crimes against a person, or both, could be charged with a Class D felony punishable by up to five years in prison and a $10,245 fine. Law enforcement officers would not be allowed to arrest or detain an undocumented migrant on the grounds of a public or private school, place of worship, at a health care facility where a migrant is receiving medical treatment or those receiving a medical examination for sexual assault. The bill was advanced on a 2-1 vote and is now eligible for consideration by the full Senate Judiciary Committee. Democrats opposed Immigrant rights organizations and Democrats voiced strong opposition to the bill, which would have major implications for migrants across the state and is certain to trigger lawsuits. They noted the bill is unconstitutional as immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility. Federal courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court, have ruled that immigration laws can only be enforced by the federal government. Republican lawmakers in Texas passed and Gov. Greg Abbott signed a similar measure in December thats being challenged in court. Supporters of the Texas law have said they hope to push the issue back before a more conservative U.S. Supreme Court. Immigrant rights advocates warned that the bill would lead to widespread racial profiling and a circumvention of protections asylum-seekers have under constitutional law and international obligations. The bill does not provide funding or a requirement to train officers on immigration law, despite authorizing them to make decisions about a persons immigration status. Opponents also raised concerns that parents may be separated from their children if arrested under the new state crime, and lead to migrants being sent across the southern border regardless of their legal status in the United States. 'Instill fear' Its going to instill fear, and its going to drive (away) immigrant families that have been living here like mine for 30 years, said Kenia Ceron, of Des Moines. Immigration and refugees have helped sustain rural areas, while domestic migration has drawn people away. In 2022, Iowa lost nearly 7,300 people to domestic migration, but gained nearly 7,300 international migrants, according to U.S. census data. What we have in Iowa is mixed-status families, comprised of both U.S. citizens and undocumented immigrants, Ceron said. What this bill will do is drive Iowans U.S. citizens Iowans out of the state in fear for their families members that will be persecuted under this bill. She said the bill would also undo years worth of work by Iowa law enforcement to build trust with Iowa immigrant communities to report crimes, identify issues and establish mutual respect and communication. What this bill will do is make immigrants like myself more fearful of our law enforcement as theyre acting as federal agents, Ceron said. 'Soft invasion' State Sen. Sandy Salmon, R-Janesville, said she introduced the bill because the country has totally lost control of our borders and is suffering a soft invasion. Salmon noted arrests for illegal border crossings from Mexico reached an all-time high in December. The U.S. Border Patrol recorded 249,785 arrests on the Mexican border in December, up from 191,112 in November and up from 222,018 in December 2022, the previous all-time high. This is unsustainable, she said, adding border agents have encountered individuals on the terror watchlist trying to enter the U.S. via Mexico. Salmon said Iowa needs to defend itself, attributing increases in fentanyl seizures, drug overdose deaths and human trafficking to illegal immigration issues and what she said has been a failure of Democratic President Joe Biden administrations to secure the border and enforce federal immigration laws. This is something we can do to help protect out state and protect our nation, Salmon said. After a weekend trip to Texas, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds this week said she plans to once again send Iowa State Patrol officers and Iowa National Guard troops to aid Texas authorities with border security efforts. 'Not their job' Erica Johnson, executive director of the Iowa Migrant Movement for Justice, said the bill would place pressure on Iowa law enforcement and Iowa judges to interpret federal immigration law, which is not their job. Its a nonsense law, Johnson said, calling Salmons talking points on the bill a list of grievances and laying them at the feet of immigrants. Tom Chapman, representing the Iowa Catholic Conference, said the group is opposed to the bill, noting much of it is clearly preempted by federal law and the U.S. Constitution. We dont encourage illegal immigration, Chapman said. We support our countrys right to control its borders, and we understand the situation at the southern border cannot continue as it has, but the issue needs to be solved at the federal level with passage of border protection policies that are consistent with humanitarian values. Federal vote U.S. Senate Republicans voted Wednesday against advancing a bipartisan border security deal that was part of a larger emergency foreign aid package to fund the war in Ukraine, Israel and Indo-Pacific security. Iowa's two Republican U.S. senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst both voted against the deal their own party members helped negotiate. Grassley, in a statement, said while he appreciated efforts made to negotiate border policy, the resulting deal fails to address the border crisis caused by President Bidens open border polices and refusal to enforce our immigration laws, which have allowed 8.8 million illegal immigrants and counting into our country. Gaping loopholes, poor border enforcement mechanisms and a lack of accountability measures make this legislation woefully inadequate, Grassley continued. Ultimately, this bill would yield massive discretionary power on border policy to President Biden and his administration. I will not vote to advance a bill that would codify ineffective policies and give President Biden more power to abuse what he has already so badly broken. Iowa bill Republican state Sens. Lynn Evans, of Aurelia, and Jeff Reichman, of Montrose, voted to advance the bill, with state Sen. Janice Weiner, D-Iowa City, opposed. Weiner said Iowas legal system is not set up and lacks the legal expertise to deal with immigration issues. I worry that what were heading for is the use of more Iowa taxpayer dollars to try and defend an unconstitutional law, she said. I suggest, rather than passing this bill, we call our (federal) senators and representatives and ask them to revive the failed border security deal. Reichman, echoing Salmon, said somethings go to be done" absent the political clout in Congress to curb illegal border crossings. Evans said changes are needed to the bill to clean up some of the language as it moves forward. On Tuesday, it came to light that Taylor Swifts attorneys have threatened legal action against Jack Sweeney, a junior at the University of Central Florida, for providing social media updates on the takeoffs and landings of Swifts personal jet. Sweeney, who has multiple long-standing accounts dedicated to tracking the publicly available flight information of the private planes and helicopters of myriad notable figures and billionaires, has previously made headlines for similar reasons. In 2022, Sweeney and Elon Musk nearly came to legal blows on then-Twitter (now X) over Sweeneys account, @ElonJet, which was suspended for tracking Elon Musks private aviation movements. (Undeterred, Sweeney revived the account as @ElonJetNextDay, which posts announcements of Musks jet activity on a delay of at least 24 hours to adhere to the websites rules.) Regardless of whether you believe Sweeney is the David to Swifts Goliath in this situation, the legal threat raises some interesting questions: Is Sweeneys tracking legal? Or does Swifts team have a pointif not legally, then at least morally? To answer those questions, Slate spoke with Ryan Calo, a professor of law and information science at the University of Washington, who has previously weighed in on Sweeneys scuffle with Musk. This conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity. Advertisement Slate: The Washington Post reports that, in the cease-and-desist letter sent to Sweeney, Taylor Swifts lawyers assert that Sweeneys social media activity has caused Swift direct and irreparable harm, as well as emotional and physical distress. Swifts lawyers also reportedly posit that there is no legitimate interest in or public need for this information, other than to stalk, harass, and exert dominion and control. If thats true, then why is this flight information public to begin with? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ryan Calo: First of all, I doubt that the information is public so that people can harass, stalk, take photographs, and so on, of celebrities like Elon Musk or Taylor Swift. Typically the Federal Aviation Administration releases information like that due to issues around safety and transparency, so there is an irony if it makes celebrities feel less safe. I agree with them: Theres no reason to follow Taylor Swift around unless youre trying to catch a glimpse of her or photograph her for a magazine as paparazzi. Taylor Swift is very likely to be the target of some pretty frightening folks, given her immense visibility and the fact that shes a woman. Advertisement So I think that theyre right as a matter of morality and public policy, but Im racking my brain to think what a successful cause of action would be. They dont have a complaint, they just have a cease-and-desist. Theyre trying to use language that makes it seem like he has some legal liability here. But I just dont see it. One [cause of action] could be something called publication of private fact. Publication of private fact is premised on the idea that youve taken something that you know and most people dont, and that youve put it out there, but you have to do it intentionally in order to cause harm. Whats happening is not defamatorytheyre not lying about her; the purpose of the revelation is not to conspire in a criminal sense, or to aid and abet another criminal offense like stalking. I dont know precisely why hes doing it, but you could imagine myriad rationales that have to do with transparency, carbon footprint concerns; theres lots of reasons that you could have that data available. I dont see any reason to believe this young man is doing it on purpose in order to help people stalk her or commit another crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Isnt the information that Sweeney is publishing not, in fact, private? If it is truly public FAA data, then its not a private fact. But you also alluded to the fact that theres some self-appointed sleuths out there who are figuring out where her plane is going. That could amount to private fact. But even if that were the case, publication of private fact requires you to intentionally do itit is an intentional tort, and intent in tort law requires, at a minimum, substantial certainty. So thats possibly why you see the lawyers using some of the language that they are; maybe theyre trying to establish that this is substantially certain to cause her harm, especially after they apprise him of that. But the problem is that, even then, your conduct has to be outrageous. And its hard to say that his conduct is outrageous when hes just using data that is available through the FAA website or that other people supplied to him. Advertisement The FAA actually allows requests from plane owners who wish for their activity to be hidden in the federal data; per the Post, Swifts jet appears to be blocked through such a request. But so-called aviation hobbyists can collect their own data, using widely available receivers that can tap into transponder and air traffic broadcasts, and input it into independent websites such as ADS-B Exchange that arent governed by the FAA. If Sweeney is getting his data from such a third party, as opposed to official FAA channels, does that change the protections that he has? Advertisement Advertisement The idea that somebody would painstakingly re-create her location by using a site that ends up mirroring the data of the FAA, but is not beholden to them, reminds me of the big problem involving juveniles in the criminal justice system. Often, they will get their criminal records purged so that theyre no longer in the state databases as having had a conviction, and yet, data brokers who have mirrored that publicly available data are not generally required to get rid of it. I think its a big problem we see in privacy, when data that is publiceven when the source of the data wants to obscure something about itis mirrored elsewhere, and theyre not bound by the same requirements [as the original source]. But, once that information is public, especially about a person who could not be more famous, then I think its really difficult to reach it under principles of tort or under principles of criminal law, where the idea is youre enabling somebody else to do something wrong. If you yourself were combing through all of her data in order to show up and take a photograph of her against California paparazzi law, or if you yourself were stalking her using that data, sure, thatd be a crime. Its no defense to say, Oh, well, its public information. You did something wrong. But thats not what this kids doing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think its morally questionable. I think its bad for public policy reasons. I think it underscores a real problem in privacy. These are all real things. But I dont know that they translate into a cause of action in either tort law or criminal law. I think the threat is an empty one by her lawyers, but I completely sympathize. Does Taylor Swifts history as a victim of stalking, and the fact that her New York home address is known to the public, give her lawyers any more foundation for a case? Currently, theres a man facing stalking and harassment charges after he was arrested outside of her townhouse in Manhattan, a location he allegedly visited 30 times over a short timespan. She has a legal and documented history of being targeted by creepy and predatory strangers. Advertisement The way that tort lawand, of course, criminal lawworks is that you have to meet the elements of the tort in order to be successful. Even if you meet one element, it doesnt mean you meet the other ones. For example, if we could say that these were private facts that hes publishing, or if we could say that he had the intent to publish this in order to cause emotional distress to Taylor Swift, then she would have a better case of meeting the tort element that this is outrageous behavior calculated to cause severe emotional distress. But there is no indication that his intent in publishing this data is aimed at causing her harassment, in part because, A) its just flight data, and B) he publishes it about lots of people. It sure helps meet certain elements of the tort that it is plausible that this data will get misused in such a severe way. The problem here is that he just isnt doing this on purpose. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related From Slate Taylor Swift Made Grammy Historyand One Big Mistake Read More In 2022, Sweeney was publicly embroiled in a very similar disagreement with Elon Musk, who objected to Sweeneys publications of his private jet activity and, like Swift, threatened legal action. Though nothing came of the situation legally, various social media accounts of Sweeneys were suspended. Does Sweeneys past with Musk change a perception of Sweeneys intent? I dont think it changes his intent. I think the previous altercation just reminds him of something that we already know, which is that celebrities dont like it when you follow their planes around. Look, Im a big Taylor Swift fan, but the truth of the matter is we cant look at her fame and choice to fly in a private jet as a fixed thing about the world and then expect everybody else out there to conform to it because its harmful to her. Advertisement What the law tries to do is make the person most able to bear the cost of a harm bear that cost, and it also seeks to disincentivize wrongful behavior. It has a variety of goals, and only one of them is met here, which is the idea of this kid not making this data so easily available. I think the previous tussle with Elon Musk probably taught him that folks dont like this, but also probably taught him that theres not much they can do about it. Advertisement The Post reports that, in this letter from Swifts attorneys, they state that Sweeneys actions are in violation of several state laws, but they dont specify them. Do you have any idea of what potential state laws, if any, are in violation? Advertisement I dont know every states laws, but I do know that the First Amendment would push back pretty hard on any law that involved people speaking their mind or publishing information that was public in origin. But the laws full of this stuff. Look at Bidens executive order. Its a 100-some-odd pages, official-looking document from the president of the United States about A.I. It doesnt really do anything. Because he doesnt have a legal authority to create lawsthats Congresshe tries to leverage something called the Defense Production Act, which is a stretch. And then he tells basically all the agencies what to do, and, because he has the ability to replace their leaders, they listen to him. But he could just call them and tell them what he wanted to do. So there are times when its performative. Its intended to frighten this person into compliance. But if Im writing a letter to somebody and saying that theyre violating state law, Im going to name the law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, let me just say that this is complicated. I do worry about this kid, because, while it is certainly true that there are people who are out to get Taylor Swift, and I dont doubt that she has a scary existence sometimesnor do I doubt it about Elon Muskthere are also fans of these two celebrities. In some ways, its more responsible for Swifts team to send a letter like this threatening legal action, even though the threat is empty, than, for example, her telling her fans that she hates this and they should go after this guy. I think the wrong person may decide that they could get into Elon Musk or Taylor Swifts good graces by hurting him. Id like to know whether or not hes been threatened by people who are fans of these folks, because the truth of the matter is, however much we want to say that this is scary for these celebrities, they have so much more power than some dude in his dorm room. Advertisement The other reason I worry about him is: Even frivolous lawsuits cost money. In many jurisdictions, theres something called an anti-SLAPP, which is a statute that permits you to countersue someone if you believe that the suit is motivated by a desire to censor what you have to say. If Im Taylor Swifts lawyers, Im worried about a countersuit in a jurisdiction that has anti-SLAPP. So, he does have that move, but that costs money. Advertisement When commentators come to Sweeneys defense, they tend to point to two things: One is free speech, and the other is this notion that the pushback on his Taylor Swift accounts came at the same time that she was facing climate-related criticism because of all the emissions from her copious private flying, so in a way, its a form of holding Swift and other public figures accountable. Whats the basis of those two theories of defense? Advertisement Advertisement I think a lot of this indignation about Taylor Swifts carbon footprint is completely manufactured. But if we are going to speculate about his motivation being to cause harm to Taylor Swift, then why wouldnt we also speculate that the reason that he posts this information is because hes a climate warrior? Each of those things seems, to me, equally plausible, and we dont have evidence of either one of them. She is a public figure. Her travel has become a matter of public interest. These privacy torts do not exist if its a matter of public interest, so even if, somehow, he technically met the elements of the tort, I think that the First Amendment pushback would be really strong. Its also about the right of an audience to have information. Theres a lot of First Amendment precedent suggesting that you cant cut off information flows, both because youre silencing the speaker but also because youre withdrawing information from people who have a right to it. And so, whatever his intention might be, there could be lots of people who are following his accounts and looking to him because they are concerned about her impact on the climate. I think that its probably not good for him to be doing this, from a moral perspective, due to the possible harm, but somebody whos really interested in climate issues might disagree with me, and thats partly the issue: How do we weigh those two things against each other? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Youve spoken about how we are aware that this is a privacy problem. Do you see the government changing the rules or the protections surrounding privacy? I think that the FAA should change the rules about peoples private flights. Ive often complained in my own writing and in talking to reporters over the years about how long it took the FAA to realize that drones presented privacy issues. In the early days, when they were asked by Congress to integrate drones into the domestic airspace, a lot of us said, as part of that safe integration, you really should consider the privacy ramifications of drones. And their response at the beginning was, Oh, were not a privacy organization, our priority is safety and efficiency, blah, blah, blah. And eventually they came to realize that they have to take privacy more seriously, but I really wish they would make a solution. Because if they never made that information available in the first place, then people couldnt piece it together, and it couldnt get mirrored before you even had a chance to object. Advertisement Advertisement Celebrities are people, toopeople who, due to the focus of attention on them, are rendered vulnerable and in peril sometimes. And so I do think that the FAA should change these rules. And if they did, there wouldnt be a First Amendment problem because the data wouldnt be available in the first place. Advertisement Or even just forcing people to delay their relay of information so that people dont know the second you touch down in a city that youre there, especially if they have your address. Its how we treat the president. You hear about the presidents agenda after its taken place, for security reasons, of course. Or do something about these outside databases that have the license to collect all this information themselves because they can get their own receivers. It would solve a lot of these problems. And thats the best place for Taylor Swifts team to direct their energy, not at one guy. Its like whack-a-mole: So this guy stops somehowmaybe he loses interest and decides to go into cryptobut the next person can just do this, too. Are they going to sue every single person that does this? I think that going at the source of it is more efficient. Over the past few months, in a courtroom in Michigan, a local prosecutor has been attempting to do something I consider basically impossible: explain a school shooting. The school shooting in question happened in November 2021, at Oxford High School. A student named Ethan Crumbley came to class with a 9 mm handgun. He killed four people, injured seven. Afterward, the district attorney got access to reams of information in an attempt to figure out how this shooting went down. That included security footage, cellphone video, text message after text message. Its all piled up in court each day. The defense attorney had a stack of papers that was literally several feet high, said Quinn Klinefelter, who is covering the story for WDET in Detroit. Advertisement One of the pieces of evidence here is a confession of a sort. Its video the shooter took of himself, the day before the massacre, where he explains exactly what hes about to do. This video was played in its entirety in open court, back in July. It was a bit rambling. It even mentions how he realized that he was going to get a life sentence because of his actions, Klinefelter said. The phrase he used was, Im going to rot in jail like a tomato. He seemed to know what would happen to him. And he did plead guilty back in the fall. But that wasnt the end of the story, because the district attorney has put Ethans parents on trial, tooJennifer and James Crumbley. They are accused of missing signs that Ethans mental health was in crisis, even buying the gun Ethan used to hurt so many of his schoolmates. In that video he made before the shooting, Ethan apologized to his parents, saying, Im ruing my life and not yours. It turns out he was pretty wrong about that. When he was sentenced, he specifically said, My parents didnt know about this. Its not their fault, Klinefelter said. Advertisement But Ethan Crumbley didnt have the final say here. A jury did. And that jury just found his mother guilty of four counts of involuntary manslaughter. She now faces years in prison. On a recent episode of What Next, we discussed how this Michigan case may change the way courtsand the rest of usthink about who is responsible for gun violence. Our conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mary Harris: This shooting at Oxford High School took place in November of 2021. But according to the prosecution, Ethan Crumbley started to show signs of mental illness months before that. And he wasnt suffering from simple depression. Eight months before the massacre, Ethan started texting his mom, saying he was seeing things around the house. Advertisement Quinn Klinefelter: He was afraid that he was having hallucinations, that he was lonely in the house, that there was a demon throwing bowls around everywhere, that somebody slammed the door in the bathroom and its haunted. There was a psychiatrist later that showed this was a sign of psychosis. The mother claims that Ethan had got a Ouija board at that time, him and his friend, and that they liked to pretend that it was a haunted house and that they would actually fake things like slam a door and say, Oh, did you hear the ghost do that? And so she thought that he was just messing around with her, that he wasnt seriously having any kind of a breakdown. Advertisement Later on, Ethan wrote to a friend and said that he wanted to call for a doctor himself, call 911, but that he was afraid that his parents would be really pissed about that. He worried that he was going to have a mental breakdown. He wrote later that when he had said something to his parents about it, they just laughed at him, his mother did. And his father told him just to take a pill and suck it up. Advertisement Now, the defense argues the exact opposite. Much of those came from messages that Ethan Crumbley sent back and forth with a friend of his about what the parents did or didnt do. Some of it he wrote in his own journal, which was found in his backpack after the shooting. And they say that the parents never saw any of that, and had they known any of this, they would have done something, but he never actually formally came out and asked them for a doctor. Advertisement Advertisement And the stuff that his parents allegedly might not have known about is legitimately disturbing stuff. Ethan was reportedly torturing and decapitating baby birds and then keeping the heads. He wrote to his friend at some point, Oh, my mom almost found the bird head. Its really, really gruesome stuff. Yeah. And again, what the prosecution argued during Ethans case is not only that and how gruesome it was, but the pleasure that he seemed to be taking from it, that he would kind of coo as he was torturing a small animal. Oh, thats OK, baby, as hes inserting things into their stomach or trying to see how far he can go before they blow up in a bloody way. Its horrible to say such things, but its the way it was. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also had a journal where he wrote things to himself and would talk about things like, Theyre ignoring me. Im getting zero help for my mental issues, and its going to cause me to shoot up the F-ing school. That is written in his journal. Whether or not any authority figureparents, school officials, anybodyactually ever saw that is something that is in question. Apparently the parents may never have known that that was even in existence. What a mess. Because as a parent of a teenager, I feel like theres so much I dont know about whats going on with my kid. So in some ways Im empathetic. But then at the same time, the things that Ethan Crumbley is accused of doing are horrible. Advertisement Thats one of the central things of this. What should a parent know? What does a parent know? How much does a parent ever know, especially in teenage years, right? Ethan was 15 at the time. So, youre in pubertyall the different things that are just inherent in that, for any person, let alone one that would have some of these issues. How much do you know about what your child is doing, and how much should you know, and how much should you be held accountable for what you do or dont know? Advertisement Advertisement Its not just that Ethan Crumbley was mentally unwell, although that seems to certainly be true. The other thing that the prosecutor wants to talk about is the presence of firearms in the Crumbley home and just how present they were. Can you explain that a little bit? How important were guns to this family? Advertisement They had got him BB guns, they said, and set up targets in the backyard. And shooting together was a family activity. Its worth noting that giving kids guns is not a rare thing in this community. No, not at all. Theres a strong gun culture in Oxford. The prosecution says that the parents bought Ethan the handgun used in the crime as an early Christmas present, to the point where Jennifer Crumbley was posting on social media, Look at this. Check it out. Ethans new Christmas toy, or something along those lines. Can we talk about that day when Ethan did this horrific shooting? In some ways, its the most perplexing and upsetting part of the story, because the day of the school shooting so many people tried to intervene with Ethan Crumbley. They sensed something was wrong. Can you tell me the story of that day? Yeah. They had seen that he had been looking up ammunition. His teachers? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yes, teachers had noticed that and then had reprimanded him for that. The day of the shooting, they had come across a math paper that had pictures drawn on ita stick figure that was being shot by a gun that looked identical to the one that Ethan had just been gifted as a present. And hed written things on it like, Blood everywhere, and The thoughts wont stop, and Help me. They took that, and they sent him to the office, to the counselor, and said, He needs some help. Advertisement While they were waiting for his parents to arrivethey called them and told them to come down because they needed to talk to themhe told the counselor that he was interested in video games, and he was just practicing for video games. And he also asked them, while hes waiting for his parents, if he could do his homework. Hed left his backpack in the classroom when they had taken him down to the counselors office. So they went and grabbed the backpack and brought it back to him and said, Boy, this seems awfully heavy. It would seem almost certain that the gun was in there then, but nobody checked. Nobody looked. Advertisement Advertisement And so, they sit down. The parents finally arrive and the counselor tells them that he was concerned that Ethan might have suicidal tendencies. He wasnt worried about a mass shooting but him hurting himself, and told them, You need to take him home, and he needs counseling. Now. Right? Like, he needs to see someone immediately. Well, no. Thats another point in the trial. They said he should be seen, and Jennifer and James Crumbley said, Well, were working. He was a DoorDash driver between jobs, and she had another job that she said she had to go back to for a meeting, so they werent able to take him home right then, they claimed. So, the counselor said, Well, you need to make sure to get him counseling within the next 48 hours or else well send child protective services. But Jennifer Crumbley has argued that she relied on these professionals who made it seem very clearly that they didnt consider Ethan posing a danger to anybody, or she claims she would have taken him home then. Advertisement Advertisement And yet it seemed like the Crumbley parents did suspect something, because within hours of this meeting at the school, there were reports of something happening at the high school. They see emergency responders at the high school. Theyre texting their son, saying, Dont do it. And the dad is going home to search for the gun. Like, Oh gosh, wheres the gun? Right? Advertisement Advertisement The father rushes back to the house the first time that he hears of this and finds that the gun is gone and that the ammunition is gone. And then he makes a hurried and nervous 911 call that he thinks maybe his child could be the shooter. Eventually, both Jennifer and James Crumbley were charged with involuntary manslaughter. But Jennifer was the first to go to trial. Her lawyers hoped they could play on jurors sympathies. Advertisement The defense, as one of their arguments, said, Find Jennifer not guilty, for every parent who hasnt known exactly what their child is doing or every parent who made a mistake but shouldnt be held criminally accountable. Its the crux of the entire case really on that side: How far can you criminalize a parent for maybe not being the best parent in the world? By winning this case, prosecutors have done something novel, legally. In the past, parents have been charged with negligence or reckless conduct after a child commits gun violence, or theres an accident with the parents gun, but that is fundamentally different from what Jennifer Crumbley was found guilty of in Michigan. Advertisement Some of the other cases are, like, you kept a gun in a shoe box and a 5-year-old could find it and shoot themselves or others, or take it to first grade and play with it and shoot somebody. It was carelessness and negligence. In this case, theyre charging involuntary manslaughter and gross negligence, saying basically that theyre an accessory to the murder because of their actions that they took or didnt take. Advertisement Advertisement What the prosecution has argued over and over is if they had taken certain simple steps, then it would never have gotten to the point where these children would have been killed. If they had even mentioned to the counselors when they were meeting with them, Oh yeah, by the way, we just bought him a gun. You might want to check if hes got it, or something like that even. But they didnt. And because they did not take those steps, did not take him from class, and avoided getting him any help when he claims that he wanted some, thats why the prosecution says these parents are as complicit as the getaway driver in a robbery. Advertisement Subscribe to What Next on Apple Podcasts Get more news from Mary Harris every weekday. A big part of the prosecutions case involved interrogating Jennifer Crumbleys vigilance as a parent. The prosecutors brought up her expensive horse-riding hobby and her extramarital affairs as a way of implying she was inattentive. They even tracked down footage of the family reuniting after Ethan was arrested. There was one video that I hadnt seen before where Ethan had been taken in custody and was sitting in the police station, and his parents actually got in to see him. This was just a couple of hours after the shooting. And during that little bit of time, they dont really say anything. They dont say, Oh, are you OK?, or Oh, my poor child, or hug him or anything like that. But as theyre leaving and walking out of the room, Jennifer starts yelling at him, like, Why? Why? And the prosecution will paint that initial reaction especially as a lack of empathy for their own child and that theyre more preoccupied with their own affairs than they were with their child. And if they hadnt watched while their son was potentially spiraling down the drain, they could have saved the lives of four other teenagers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the mother of a teenager, I have really mixed feelings about the focus thats been happening on Jennifer, the mom, here. Theres just been so much talking about how shes a bad mom, a cold mom. All of those things may be true, but Im unclear if they amount to a crime. What does that say about what were really saying with this prosecution? That was something that the defense argued again there in the closing arguments: You may not like Jennifer Crumbley particularly for whatever reason. But this is not a case about her morality. Its a question about what would a reasonable person have done, and did they allow access to a weapon that they should not have? The defense summed it up: What parent is going to buy a gun for a child that they think has mental illness? And thats mainly their argument, along with saying that demonizing her is not tantamount to saying that shes guilty. Advertisement But now that Jennifer Crumbley has been found guilty, the question becomes just how far a parents responsibility for their child will go. What a lot of legal experts will say is that its a warning sign to other cases across the country. Where will the line be drawn? If your child goes on a robbery spree and there are some signs that they were a robber, are you going to be penalized and charged with accessory to robbery or something? Im making these up, but its along those lines. As we all know, legal people want to go off precedents. When somethings been set, theyre either having to argue completely against it, and they will have to set a precedent of their own, or theyll use that as the example. Well, in this Michigan case such and such happens, so therefore for our variation of it, based on what was found in that case, were going to do this. And they really say that could be a crux for a whole lot of cases coming up. It seems pretty clear that the Supreme Court isnt going to let individual states like Colorado remove Donald Trump from the ballot in 2024. During oral arguments in Trump v. Anderson on Thursday, the justices really were not buying the theory that the former president could be disqualified for engaging in insurrection. The only real question is what rationale the court will use to reject that theory, Mark Joseph Stern writes. He takes a look at the most likely one the justices will go withand explains why even Ketanji Brown Jackson is siding with Trump in this case. But the specific way the court writes its decision could open the door to chaos down the road, Richard L. Hasen warns. He outlines the potential dangers. Advertisement Plus, in case you missed it: Mark A. Graber reflects on how wild part of Trumps argument was. (It posited that Jefferson Davis wasnt an insurrectionist, either.) Not a complete waste The border deal may have died in the Senate, but it wasnt a complete waste of time. Jim Newell explains how this whole fiasco revealed the only compromise that has a flying chance. A strange news cycle for Biden Joe Biden has plenty going for him heading into the 2024 presidential election. On the other hand, Democrats also experience every second that Biden opens his mouth as a cliffs-edge moment of sheer terror, Ben Mathis-Lilley writes. He takes a look at some of Bidens worrying recent gaffes. Sneaky Schiff Adam Schiff is engaging in a sneaky campaign tactic thats a danger to all Democrats except himself. Alexander Sammon explains why Dems ought to beware. Were asking the hard questions Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like will Barron Trump ever stop growing? He is already so tall. Heather Schwedel consulted some experts to find out. Grammy whammy! Couldnt find an official clip of Fast Car after the Grammys? Youre not alone! Nitish Pahwa explains why the awards show made it impossible to share videos of the night. The dumbest Oscar season controversy yet Advertisement The nominations for Best Documentary are the best theyve ever been. Sam Adams examines why that hasnt stopped traditionalists from complaining. Murder in Cahokia What would the U.S. be like if Native Americans held on to power? Laura Miller spoke to Francis Spufford, author of the alternate-history mystery novel Cahokia Jazz, which explores those possibilities. Today, at Slate THE DEPARTMENT ENDURES Dont miss Slate copy chief Sarah Rutledges close reading of the use of punctuation in Taylor Swifts new album titleits lowkey poetry in itself. Thanks so much for reading! Well see you back here tomorrow. On Thursday, special counsel Robert Hur issued his report on President Joe Bidens handling of classified documents when he was out of office. Much of the focus on the report has been about Hurs description of Bidens memory, which he used as part of his justification for declining to issue a call to prosecute Biden. Its a misguided focus. Too little has been said about the Department of Justices central reason, as described in the report, for declining to issue a charging recommendation against the president: his lack of culpability. Its in stark contrast with the superficially similar other recent case, Donald Trumps alleged criminal mishandling of classified documents following the end of his presidency. Advertisement The key fact in Bidens case is that he cooperated fully in retrieving, turning over to the FBI, and answering all questions about classified documents in his possession, upon his lawyers discovery of such materials in January 2023. Contrarily, as the report emphasizes, Trump is charged with obstructing the governments 2022 efforts to retrieve all highly classified documents he willfully retained at Mar-a-Lago. He refused to disclose them, provide full information about them, or return them. That is why a grand jury indicted Trump in August 2023 for obstruction of justice. The difference with Bidens cooperation couldnt be clearer. Full cooperation signals to prosecutors a person without a criminal state of mind. Thats plainly the real reason why Hur, a former Trump-appointed United States attorney, recommended against prosecuting Biden. Related From Slate Will Joe Biden Suffer Politically From the Justice Department Special Counsel Saying His Brain Doesnt Work? Read More Hurs 340-page report was released on Thursday. It was the result of a 13-month investigation over the classified documents that President Bidens lawyers found in his office and home last year after Biden instructed them to conduct the search and then to voluntarily return all such documents. Advertisement In another sharp contrast with Trump, Biden also cooperated fully and transparently in Hurs investigation of how it happened. The president even declined the opportunity to redact embarrassing information from the report. Most tellingly, Biden did not even assert executive privilege during his two-day interview with Hur in October. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is no mystery about what Trump would have done if still president. He refused to be interviewed when special counsel Robert Mueller investigated the Trump campaigns cooperation with Russia during the 2016 election. And Trumps voluminous history of unsuccessfully asserting executive privilege to shield truth from the American people could fill his presidential library. Bidens transparency about such informationand his full cooperation in an investigative process that holds a president to public accountwas a model for the way honest public servants should conduct themselves in confronting their own mistakes. Advertisement Conversely, Trump doubled down on far more serious misconduct. For example, he stored highly sensitive national security secrets in places accessible to his country club visitorsand allegedly continued to lie and scheme about them, moving classified documents from place to place to conceal them from federal authorities. So lets recognize as partisan talking points the Republican claim that there is some kind of double standard in Hurs declining to prosecute Biden while a Florida grand jury has indicted Trump for obstructing an investigation. This views the special counsel report through a distorted lens for Republicans partisan advantage. Thats not to say Bidens handling of the documents was acceptable before he returned them. Hurs investigation uncovered a February 2017 conversation between Biden and his book ghostwriter. In it, Biden said that he had just found all the classified stuff downstairs. Advertisement Advertisement Biden should have immediately returned the documents. In interviewing Biden, Hur found the presidents memory of the events from 2017 less than clear, which he characterized as indicative of Bidens age and mental acuity. Memories, however, about events six years earlier are often incomplete, even by witnesses much younger than Biden. Lawyers soundly advise witnesses to say I dont recall if they have any doubt. Advertisement Incomplete recollection was indeed part of Hurs reasoning for concluding that the evidence failed the Justice Departments standards for a prosecution. Mr. Biden would likely present himself to a jury as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory It would be difficult to convince a jury that they should convict him. Advertisement Biden pushed back hard Thursday on Hurs description. No doubt Hur provided fodder for Trump and his allies. Doing so was completely unprofessional. The American Bar Association standards of prosecution state: The prosecutor may make a public statement explaining why criminal charges have been declined or dismissed but must take care not to prejudice the interests of . subjects of an investigation. For all the world it looks like Hur learned the wrong lesson from what happened with Hunter Bidens special prosecutor, David Weiss, another Republican, after MAGA world went after Weiss for negotiating a plea deal with Hunter Biden that conformed to prior DOJ settlements of prosecutions for the same crimes. Hur seems to have had a goal of preempting similar attacks on him for exonerating Biden the fatherby feeding red meat to MAGA wolves. A frightened prosecutor is a failed prosecutor. For those concerned about the rule of law, it is important to keep our eye on the ball. President Joe Biden corrected his error and cooperated. He did not obstruct. That is why he is not being prosecuted. In other words, after making mistakes in 2017, he behaved during this investigation like a president who does not consider himself above the law. That is the polar opposite of Donald Trump. It is legitimate, in principle, for a journalist to interview a murderous dictator. The uproar over Tucker Carlsons announcement that he would interview Vladimir Putin was that the session would amount to pure Kremlin propaganda. Carlson, after all, is an admirer of Putin who, in his days as a Fox News host, hoped out loud that Russia would win its war against Ukraine. It was also feared that Putin would spout a stream of lies and that Carlson, who is not a real journalist, much less a historian, would be incapable of pushing back. In this sense, the two-hour interview, which aired Thursday night on X and Carlsons website, exceeded all expectations. It is a thoroughly repellent showfor the perniciousness of Putins falsehoods, the thoroughness of Carlsons complicity, and the possible impact it might have at a time when many in Congress are looking for any excuse to cut off further aid to Ukraines embattled military. One bit of good news is that Putin kicked off the big event with a half-hour-long monologue about Russian history, and, amid his holding forth on Yaroslav the Wise, the Ryurik dynasty, and the baptism of Rus (and this was all merely leading up to 1000 A.D.), many viewers likely tuned out and turned it off. The upshot of Putins lecture, it soon became clear, was that Ukraine never existed as a nation, a culture, or an ethnicity separate from Russia; that there was no mention of such a place until 1919, when the Bolsheviks created the Soviet Socialist Republic of Ukraine; and, therefore, the assertion of Ukrainian independence, after the breakup of the USSR, was an absurdity and a gesture of ingratitude. Advertisement This is total nonsense, as many analysts and historians noted when Putin laid out his thesis in a 5,000-word essay in 2021 called On the Historical Unity of Russians and Ukrainians. Carlson, who sat listening with the expression of a listless undergrad who wondered if hed stumbled into the wrong seminar, challenged none of it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The true depths of Putins mischief, and Carlsons collaboration, were plumbed when the discussion turned to Russias invasion of Ukraine. In Putins account, the war was brought on by the United States and Ukraine. In 2008, President George W. Bush opened the door to Ukraines membership in NATO, which had already taken over many of Russias former allies in central and Eastern Europe. In 2014, the CIA engineered a coup in Kyiv, which brought to power neo-Nazis who sent soldiers into Donbas province, where many Russian speakers lived, forcing Moscow to come to their aid. Advertisement This account had the virtue of being half-true, but the half that was false is crucial. It is true that, at the 2008 NATO summit in Bucharest, Bush declared (and pressured the Western allies to agree) that Ukraine and Georgia would become members, but he didnt lay out a timetable, thus feeding Ukrainians false hopes and Putins paranoiathe worst of both worlds. Putin omitted or distorted much context. First, the expansion of NATO, which began under Bushs father and President Bill Clinton, was encouraged most of all by the small central and Eastern European countrieschiefly Czechoslovakia, Poland, and Hungarywhich did not want to be left defenseless in the face of what they saw as Russias inevitable revanchism. (Putin repeated to Carlson his claim that Clinton had promised NATO would expand not one inch to the east; as historian M.E. Sarotte proves in her book, titled Not One Inch, this is a myth.) Advertisement Advertisement Second, the events of 2014 began when Ukraines president, Viktor Yanukovych, reversed his pledge to seek formal affiliation with the European Unionafter Putin offered the country $17 billion if he did so. This backpedaling sparked a mass rebellion on the Maidan, Kyivs public square. Yanukovych tried to suppress it with gunfire, but in the end fled to Russia as pro-EU leaders took power. Advertisement Putin told Carlson, with a shrug, that he didnt mind Yanukovychs turn toward the EUbut in fact he minded it very much, fearing that if Ukraine, the largest and closest of Russias former allies, could turn westward and benefit from the switch, democratic protesters in other former republics and in Russia itself might get ideas. Putin refers to Maidan as a coup, mounted by the CIA. (I suggest you watch Winter on Fire, Evgeny Afineevskys Oscar-nominated Netflix documentary, for vivid rebuttal. If CIA agents were capable of mounting such massive and successful protests, one can only wonder why U.S. ideas and policies dont spread like wildfire worldwide.) Advertisement Finally, Putin claimed that Ukraine sent troops to occupy the eastern provinces of Donbas, when in fact it was Russian special forces who crossed the border to fight alongside secessionist militias. Advertisement Advertisement Putin also claimed that he has always been ready to make peace. He said that he withdrew his troops from Kyiv as a friendly gesturewhen, in fact, his troops were forcibly repelled by Ukrainian soldiers. He also said that Russian and Ukrainian diplomats were all set to sign a peace treaty at talks in Istanbul in the spring of 2022until British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, egged on by President Joe Biden, encouraged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to keep fighting (in order to weaken Russia and to swell the profits of the U.S. military-industrial complex). Advertisement In fact, Putins negotiation position at Istanbul was simply unacceptable. He demanded that Ukraine recognize Russias annexation of Crimea and his declaration that two of Ukraines eastern provinces were now independent states. He also demanded Ukraines demilitarization (without any withdrawal of Russian troops) and de-Nazification (meaning a resignation of Kyivs government for a pro-Kremlin regime). In other words, Putin was demanding Ukrainian surrender. Advertisement Again, Carlson said nothing. In fact, he repeated the claim about Johnson as if it were true, and wondered out loud why Johnson did that. Putin also neglected to note (and Carlson lacked the resources to remind him) that, two weeks into the war, Zelensky dropped his insistence on joining NATO. If the Western militarization of Ukraine were really the cause of Russias invasion, as he continues to claim, Putin could have halted the war then and there. Advertisement Advertisement Carlson did ask Putin what he meant by de-Nazification. Putin cited the ultranationalist, even fascistic figures from World War II that Ukrainians still heroize, claiming that Zelensky is among them. There is something to the claim about Ukrainian nationalism, but it is nonsense to pin the tag on Zelensky, who is Jewish and whose relatives were killed in the Holocaust. It is also worth noting, though Putin did not, that in the 2019 parliamentary elections, a coalition of Ukraines four extreme-right parties won just 2 percent of the voteless than the 5 percent threshold needed to win even a single seat and far less than far-right parties in most other European countries. Related From Slate Republicans Are Sending a Dangerous Message to the Rest of the World Read More Finally, Putin claimed that Zelensky issued a decree banning peace talks with Russia. In fact, Zelenskys decree banned peace talks not with Russia but with Putinon the quite sensible grounds that Putin could not be trusted on anything. Advertisement Carlson did not challenge this claim, so Putin went on. Ukraine, he said, not for the first time, is a mere puppet of the United States. Biden should lift the decree, and Putin will happily negotiate. Why keep sending billions of dollars to Ukraine, he calmly asked, when America has so many other problemsthe southern border, the national debt, and so forth? Advertisement Advertisement This was the point that Putin came to make, the point that he knew no real Western journalist would leave unchallenged, which is why he turned down many other invitations for an interview until the reliable Tucker came calling. Putin knewand so did Carlsonthat many viewers, who know little and care less about Russia or Ukraine, will nod their heads and agree that its time to give up and give in. Advertisement Advertisement Carlson did confront Putin on one point. He asked about Evan Gershkovich, the Wall Street Journal reporter who has been in a Russian jail for nearly a year on trumped-up charges of espionage. He clearly isnt a spy, Carlson asserted, so why not free him and let him fly home with me? That would have been quite the coupa real feather, and favor, for Putins favorite American scribe. Putin allowed that a deal would be made at some point, but he continued to insist that Gershkovich was working for U.S. special services. Again, Carlson said nothing. Otherwise, Carlson asked nothing about the many other journalists and critics that Putin has shut down, arrested, or killed. He asked nothing about Putins incessant bombing of purely civilian structures across Ukraine. He asked nothing about Russian cyber-operations against the West. He asked nothing about his cooperation with North Korea or Iran. When Putin said he had no territorial ambitions in the Baltics, Poland, or anyplace else, he failed to note that Putin said the same thing about Ukraine before the invasion or that he has rhapsodized since about restoring the Great Russian Empire. All in all, the interview, by Putins standards, was more of the same that weve heard for some time nowand, by Carlsons, even worse than anyone could have dreaded. A selection of short feel-good stories from Slovakia. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Share Every week The Slovak Spectator brings you a selection of three short stories from across Slovakia from which pessimism and negativity are absent. Students idea for using wool is awarded abroad The enterprising students behind the Sibalky project (Source: Trenciansky samospravny kraj) Slovak students have found a unique way to use wool in the most ecological way possible. After finding out about the problems that the wool trades face on the market, students from the Secondary Vocational School of Trade and Services in Nove Mesto nad Vahom, in western Slovakia, started producing handmade dryer balls, made of 100-percent fleece. Dryer balls are used in electric clothes dryers to prevent clothing from clumping and wrinkling , thereby reducing drying time. To make the balls, they decided to use the dry felting method, which is more ecological than the wet method, which uses huge amounts of water. Breeders will have a market for sheared wool and the customer will receive several benefits, the Trencin Self-Governing Region wrote on its website. Apart from dryer balls, students started producing ecological scents for wardrobes, cars and offices felted wool balls sprinkled with essential oils or perfumed compositions. The students created their own student company, Sibalky, which, with the help of the non-governmental organisation Junior Achievement (JA) Slovakia, simulates the operation of a joint-stock company. At the Business Talent Fair competition, held in Hradec Kralove in the Czech Republic, they placed second in the Best Student JA Company category, and third in the Best Stand category. Sisters from Kyiv find success in Bratislava One of the dishes served at the Inside restaurant. (Source: Inside restauracia) Shortly after two sisters from Kyiv opened a new family restaurant, Inside, in February 2023 it became a sensation. It is now one of the best-rated dining locations in the Slovak capital. The restaurant offers traditional Ukrainian dishes, such as Ukrainian borscht or vareniki. Since the very beginning, weve been trying to create a place where our guests could feel comfortable and spend their free time nicely, said Ksenia Syshchenko and Alena Muntiyan, as quoted by the Dobre Noviny website. Our aim was to create an atmosphere where everybody would feel like home, and would enjoy a nice time with their family, friends or colleagues. The restaurant hosts also business meetings, seminars, games and thematic events. It issues its own unique newspaper, called Insider. At the same time, the owners are helping their fellow countrymen, Dobre Noviny reported. Ninth gold for Slovak postal operator The virtual catalogue presenting Slovakia via postage stamps. (Source: Courtesy of Slovenska posta) Slovakias national postal operator, Slovenska Posta, can boast another international success. It won its ninth gold at a prestigious international competition organised by the Universal Postal Union (UPU), the specialised United Nations agency that governs postal operators. The competition was part of the Thailand 2023 World Stamp Exhibition, held in Bangkok between November 27 and December 2, 2023. Slovenska Posta won in the A competition class for postal operators with a smaller volume of issues (i.e. less than 30 stamps per year), with a display titled Holidays in Slovakia. It contained 16 sheets of paper (A4 format) with stamps issued over the past three years. It took the form of a virtual travel agency catalogue that presented Slovakias regions via postal stamps, Slovenska Posta wrote on Facebook. Five feel-good stories published by The Slovak Spectator to read: Political meme of the week (Source: Hej, ty! Gyore) Coalition MPs, led by Prime Minister Robert Fico (depicted in the cartoon above) approved an extensive amendment to the Penal Code and other related laws, including the Criminal Procedure Law, on February 8, despite the oppositions objections in the parliament, huge public protests across Slovakia and criticism from Brussels. The new law will cancel the Special Prosecutors Office and reduce sentences for financial crimes, among other things. Related article Related article Last Week: Passage of Ficos legal changes is now imminent Read more You can send me your tips on good news stories about Slovakia or funny memes at: radka.minarechova@spectator.sk. Thank you! Sarah Scoles at Undark: Nuclear weapons laboratories dont often help solve serial-killer cases. But in the investigation of Efren Saldivar, data from such a lab provided the clinching evidence that led to his conviction on six counts of murder. As a respiratory therapist at Glendale Adventist Medical Center in California, where he started working in 1989, Saldivar was at times tasked with caring for terminally ill patients. One day in 1998, according to a report from the Los Angeles Times, the hospital got a tip that someone had helped a patient die fast. Hospital officials had previously investigated Saldivar because of an internal tip about alleged misconduct he had a reputation for having a magic syringe, as one coworker reported. Police soon became involved, calling Saldivar in for questioning. More here. Lack of infrastructure is cited, but the new government has been openly hostile towards Globsec Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Share The international security conference Globsec has taken place in Bratislava every year since 2005, during which time it has grown into a major international event that consistently attracts world leaders and opinion-formers. This year, for the first time, it may be held abroad, with Prague and Warsaw being considered as alternative venues, reports the Sme daily. Two sources confirmed to Sme that there is a possibility that this year's edition will take place in Prague. The main reason for moving the event is the insufficient capacity of conference premises in the Slovak capital. In recent years the conference has been held at the River Park Hotel next to the Danube. Globsec has been considering a change in location for several years. Related article Related article Presidents, prime ministers and even the pope. The world is coming to Bratislava again Read more Lacking infrastructure "Recent years have shown us that it is logistically more and more difficult to hold a conference for 1,500 guests in Bratislava," said Globsec spokeswoman Henrieta Kunova. Establishments in the vicinity must be reserved long in advance for the needs of various accompanying events. "We considered the lack of congress infrastructure to be one of the main problems that would prevent us from growing further for a while," the spokeswoman said, adding that Globsec has been a proponent of the creation of a congress centre for Bratislava a long-mooted but never realised project in the city. "In this regard, both Prague and Warsaw are much better equipped." Still, Bratislava should remain one of the places where the event will be held as part of the rotation, while other events should remain in Slovakia. Moreover, Globsec headquarters is not planning to move and should remain in the Slovak capital for now. Related article Related article Timothy Garton Ash: Russia wants to disintegrate the EU Read more Current government is critical of Globsec The change comes at a time when the current Slovak government, which contains several members who are avowedly anti-liberal and openly embrace conspiracy theories, has been critical of the organisation. Last December, Slovak National Party (SNS) leader Andrej Danko formally asked his coalition partners to halt any support from the state for Globsec. "It is a natural ambition of the SNS to limit the finances of the third sector. In my opinion, it is desirable that institutions like Globsec do not get a single euro from the state. Globsec is a civil association that costs us hundreds of thousands of euros," said Danko. According to Globsec, the state provides no more than one tenth of the annual conference's budget. Its status has an internationally significant event has attracted figures including President Emmanuel Macron of France, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, and Britain's former prime minister (and current foreign minister) David Cameron. Slovak diplomats have presented Globsec as a success story, and even Robert Fico the current prime minister spoke highly of it as a "great diplomatic success" in 2012. Status points are being awarded to attackers, police say. Gangs of school pupils have reportedly been attacking people in the towns of Poprad and Spisska Nova Ves, in eastern Slovakia. (Source: TASR) Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Share Recently, two towns in eastern Slovakia have had problems with gangs of violent school pupils. A 20-year-old native of the town of Spisska Nova Ves has already been attacked three times, reports the Noviny.sk website. The gangs are even awarding points for the attacks, police say. The 20-year-old man was recently attacked in front of his own mother. She described him being kicked in the head, and says that he is currently unable to work and is suffering from psychological trauma. Both parents also report being having been attacked by local children. When a reporter from private broadcaster TV Joj approached one young man from the group of alleged attackers he refused to talk on camera, but claimed the accusations were made up. He also wanted media coverage of the incidents to stop. According to the city police in Spisska Nova Ves, there are at least two groups of pupils from the 8th and 9th grades attacking people in the evening, both in the town centre and in more secluded locations. In addition, the gangs have introduced a points system that allows pupils to ascend within the hierarchy, with 10 points given for attacking a 60-year-old man and 20 points for a 50-year-old. The police say they have a list of 28 names and measures are already being taken, although they did not specify what these are. In nearby Poprad, similar groups have attacked young and older people alike. Police in the town say they have strengthened patrols. There must be something in the water in Hollywood. (Its probably coffee grounds.) Last week, we brought news of Robert Downey Jr. starting his own coffee brand, the very sad Happy Coffee, accompanied by tired tropes about baristacrats and nonsensical musingsI still have no idea what RDJ meant by the pejorative complicated blends. This week, another actor is trying their hand at the business of coffee, and at least they have the good sense to not jam their whole foot down the length of their esophageal tract while promoting it. Seth Rogen, Hollywoods lovable stoner, has created Houseplant Coffee. You cant wake and bake, without first being awake. Coffee is the latest addition to Rogens Houseplant, his cannabis-focused lifestyle brand that includes things like ashtrays, vases, lighters, carrying cases, candles, vinyl, even soap. The ceramics, designed by Rogen himself in his pottery studio, are all incredibly lovely if not prohibitively expensive, as though legitimizing cannabis use can be achieved through curation and a higher price point. And now coffee is part of Houseplant. For the new line, Rogen has teamed up with Cometeer, which is a choice. The VC-backed frozen coffee brand that raised nearly $100 million took the specialty coffee world by storm before unexpectedly firing most of their staff, right before the holiday season no less while deciding to roll out a marketing campaign of giving away free coffee to Goldman Sachs employees. It is unclear who is doing the actual roasting for Houseplant Coffee. Cometeer is more in the freezing business than the roasting business. There are two coffees on the brands inaugural offer sheet. Theres Get Roasted, the Mexican dark roast that is a flagship blend from Central America with notes of dark chocolate, cashew, and baking spice. And theres the single origin Bean There Done That, a medium roast from Aricha Adorsi, Ethiopia with notes of peach, sweet tea, and orange. A box of 32 servings of Houseplant retails for $84, or $64 if you sign up for a subscription. The coffee is, admittedly, the last of the Houseplant line of goods that I would consider buying. Theres better coffee for cheaper and its pretty much everywhere; Im more likely to buy that fetching sake set or maybe save up for the $150 candle. But maybe you want the full, curated Seth Rogen Wake & Bake Experience, and the coffee is an integral part of that. Call me when they start selling whole bean. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240208/democracy-dies-in-darkness-us-mainstream-media-undermines-founding-fathers-vision-for-america-1116676869.html Democracy Dies in Darkness: US Mainstream Media Undermines Founding Fathers Vision for America Democracy Dies in Darkness: US Mainstream Media Undermines Founding Fathers Vision for America Sputnik International Journalist and host of RTs Going Underground program Afshin Rattansi said that mainstream media undermines the US Founding Fathers vision of the First Amendment and freedom of expression in an interview on Sputniks Fault Lines program Thursday. 2024-02-08T22:34+0000 2024-02-08T22:34+0000 2024-02-09T05:12+0000 americas tucker carlson us democracy freedom of speech censorship social media censorship surveillance government surveillance vladimir putin https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/02/08/1116676587_0:237:2802:1813_1920x0_80_0_0_713df20d02d10ff36e462b33208362f3.jpg Journalist and host of RTs Going Underground program Afshin Rattansi said that mainstream media undermines the US Founding Fathers vision of the First Amendment and freedom of expression in an interview on Sputniks Fault Lines program Thursday.What does it say on the masthead of Amazon.com [owner] Jeff Bezos' newspaper over there The Washington Post Democracy Dies in Darkness? asked Rattansi.I mean, this is not what the Founding Fathers of the United States wanted when they wrote the First Amendment, is it? he added.The First Amendment is perhaps the most famous addition to the US Constitution. The amendment enumerates numerous rights to American citizens, including freedom of religion, freedom of assembly, and crucially freedom of speech.Along with freedom of the press, Americas founders hoped free expression would supply US citizens with the ability to thoroughly examine and debate the issues of the day, providing a crucial check against the tyranny of the federal government. But host Jamarl Thomas suggested that the demonization of certain views is preventing the First Amendment from functioning as intended.I got to be honest, that is cancerous, he added. That is cancerous to society. There's a First Amendment for a reason.US President Thomas Jefferson once declared that enlightened people and an energetic public opinion should work together to combat the aristocratic spirit of the government. Jefferson was fiercely egalitarian, skeptical of elites, and faithful in average peoples ability to educate and govern themselves as free people.If the United States is to be a free country, Americans must retain this sacred right to hear and consider all points of view. Even Russian ones. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230329/the-us-is-not-a-democracy-1108886575.html americas Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 John Miles https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/01/19/1116388787_0:0:1316:1316_100x100_80_0_0_77e70d36afd983012b1c5d38ddb84156.jpg John Miles https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/01/19/1116388787_0:0:1316:1316_100x100_80_0_0_77e70d36afd983012b1c5d38ddb84156.jpg News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 John Miles https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/01/19/1116388787_0:0:1316:1316_100x100_80_0_0_77e70d36afd983012b1c5d38ddb84156.jpg mainstream media, propaganda, tucker carlson https://sputnikglobe.com/20240208/key-statements-from-tucker-carlson-interview-with-president-putin-1116677179.html Key Statements From Tucker Carlson's Interview With President Putin Key Statements From Tucker Carlson's Interview With President Putin Sputnik International On Thursday, American journalist Tucker Carlson released his interview with Russian President Vladimir Putin. He is the first Western journalist to do so since the special military operation in Ukraine began in February of 2022. 2024-02-08T23:27+0000 2024-02-08T23:27+0000 2024-02-12T11:14+0000 vladimir putin tucker carlson putins interview with tucker carlson russia freedom of speech ukraine crisis ukrainian conflict us us hegemony us arms for ukraine https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/02/09/1116685821_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_cbdb268cb35cb6e1c9875d019dd801cb.jpg On Thursday, American journalist Tucker Carlson released his interview with Russian President Vladimir Putin. He is the first Western journalist to do so since the special military operation in Ukraine began in February of 2022.During the 2-hour interview, Putin opened by explaining the centuries-long history of "Ukraine", which he says was a name invented by the Poles, who considered the southern Russian lands, which were part of the Polish-Lithuanian state, a suburb. "It didn't define it as belonging to any ethnic group," Putin told Carlson. "So this was how this situation developed. In 1922 when the USSR was being established, the Bolsheviks started building the USSR and established the Soviet Ukraine, which had never existed before," he added. Carlson then asked Putin if he had told Prime Minister of Hungary Viktor Orban that he can "have part of Ukraine", to which Putin said, "never". But during the interview, Putin explained what had led to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. "Initially, it was the coup in Ukraine that provoked the conflict," Putin stated. "CIA did its job to complete the coup." Putin added that he had spoken to the US multiple times about the West militarizing Ukraine, adding that Ukraine had started preparing for military action. The Russian president also explained that he had wanted to negotiate a settlement with the conflict in Ukraine as well. "We prepared the huge document in Istanbul that was initialed by the head of the Ukrainian delegation. He had fixed his signature to some of the provisions, not to all of it. He put his signature and then he himself said, we were ready to sign it, and the war would have been over long ago. 18 months ago. However, Prime Minister Johnson came, talked us out of it and we missed that chance," said Putin.When asked if Russia has achieved its aims, Putin said it hadn't yet because one of its goals is de-nazification, which is the prohibition of all neo-Nazi movements. He added that Ukraine had sought an identity after gaining independence, and based that identity off of those who had collaborated with Adolf Hitler.The interview often turned to the topic of NATO, with Carlson asking the president if he had felt felt a physical threat form the West in NATO, including a potentially nuclear threat. Carlson also asked if this threat is what made Putin "move" towards Ukraine. "The former Russian leadership assumed that the Soviet Union had ceased to exist and therefore there were no longer any ideological dividing lines. Russia even agreed voluntarily and proactively to the collapse of the Soviet Union, and believed that this would be understood by the so-called civilized West as an invitation for cooperation and association. That is what Russia was expecting, both from the United States and this so-called collective West as a whole," said Putin.Putin added that the West had promised Russia that NATO would not expand eastward, and yet it happened five times. The Russian president added that at the start of his presidency he had asked former President Bill Clinton if it would be possible for Russia to join NATO."Well, I became president in 2000. I thought, okay, the Yugoslav issue is over, but we should try to restore relations. Lets re-open the door that Russia had tried to go through," he explained. Carlson pressed Putin in asking him if he would have joined NATO had the former US president said, "yes" at the time. Putin answered that it "might have happened", but that he was not "bitter" or resentful that it did not happen. On China, Putin said that the "West is afraid of strong China" more than it fears a strong Russia, due to the population size of China which is 1.5 billion. He added that China's economy is growing by "leaps and bounds". And when asked if BRICs is in danger of being dominated by the Chinese economy, Putin called them "boogeyman stories". When asked who was responsible for blowing up the Nord Stream, Putin simply said the US, "for sure.""But in this case, we should not only look for someone who is interested, but also for someone who has capabilities, because there may be many people interested, but not all of them are capable of sinking to the bottom of the Baltic Sea and carrying out this explosion. These two components should be connected. Who is interested and who is capable of doing it?"At the end of the interview, Putin said that the operation in Ukraine will ultimately end in an agreement, and that with time, relations will heal."You know, this probably sounds strange given the current situation. But the relations between the two peoples will be rebuilt anyway. It will take a lot of time, but they will heal," said the Russian president. Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Mary Manley https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/01/0b/1092187887_0:0:2048:2049_100x100_80_0_0_0c2cc4c84f89aff034cc55bb01fb6697.jpg Mary Manley https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/01/0b/1092187887_0:0:2048:2049_100x100_80_0_0_0c2cc4c84f89aff034cc55bb01fb6697.jpg News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Mary Manley https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/01/0b/1092187887_0:0:2048:2049_100x100_80_0_0_0c2cc4c84f89aff034cc55bb01fb6697.jpg putin, vladimir putin, tucker carlson, nato, brics, ukraine, us, russia and the west, tucker carlson interview with vladimir putin, putin interview, tucker carlson interview https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/bidens-failed-strategy-on-southern-border-deliberate---ex-us-homeland-security-chief-1116702223.html Biden's 'Failed' Strategy on Southern Border 'Deliberate' - Ex-US Homeland Security Chief Biden's 'Failed' Strategy on Southern Border 'Deliberate' - Ex-US Homeland Security Chief Sputnik International Former acting US Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf told Sputnik that the Biden administration's failed strategy on the US-Mexico border is deliberate 2024-02-09T17:48+0000 2024-02-09T17:48+0000 2024-02-09T17:48+0000 americas us joe biden mike johnson texas congress senate us-mexico border us-mexico border https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/01/1e/1116480847_0:103:3276:1946_1920x0_80_0_0_21678cd7d1328b18665343d19840fb06.jpg "The current administration's failed border strategy is deliberate, prompting states - spearheaded by Texas - to rightfully push back," Wolf said. "Governor [Greg] Abbott has been compelled to take unprecedented actions due to the Biden Administration's refusal to fulfill its duty in securing our southern border." The Biden administration should embrace Texas's assistance on the US southern border as a force multiplier rather than persistently challenge its efforts in court, Wolf said. Abbott has surged National Guard troops and state police officers to the southern border to help deter record illegal immigration on the US-Mexico border. Most of the illegal immigrants have been coming through various spots along the Texas-Mexico border, such as Eagle Pass and Del Rio. However, the Biden administration has challenged some of Texas' methods to secure the border. Last month, the US Supreme Court ruled that federal agents can cut the razor wire fencing Texas installed on the US-Mexico border, but it does not require the state to remove it. The Biden administration also recently asked the Supreme Court to prevent the Texas National Guard from blocking federal Border Patrol agents from accessing a stretch of land along the US southern border town Eagle Pass, Texas. The Texas Military Department explained that its action to block off federal agents was to "prepare for future illegal immigrant surges and to restrict access to organizations that perpetuate illegal immigrant crossings in the park and greater Eagle Pass area." Abbott has vowed to defy federal efforts that prevent Texas from securing its border with Mexico. Failed Efforts In Congress to Pass Border Policy ReformsHouse Speaker Mike Johnson also said the bill would be "dead on arrival" if it ever reaches the lower chamber. The Biden Administration doesn't need a new bill to fix the border crisis, Wolf said. "They possess the necessary executive authority to address the crisis, yet persist in eschewing the proven policies of the Trump Administration," Wolf added. NBC News reported that President Joe Biden is considering using executive authority to deter illegal immigration as it seems Congress will not be able to agree on a border security reform bill anytime soon. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240205/non-starter-why-senates-border-security-and-foreign-aid-bill-wont-even-receive-a-vote-in-house-1116603774.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240127/texas-border-dispute-shows-entire-us-constitutional-system-collapsing-in-multiple-ways-1116422032.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240131/fears-about-fbi-infiltration-of-take-our-border-back-convoy-indicate-erosion-of-democracy-in-us--1116520706.html americas texas Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International us mexico border, us southern border, us border crisis, texas border, bill on us border https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/carlson-putin-interview-smashed-us-media-censorship-wall---ex-asst-defense-secretary-1116704085.html Carlson-Putin Interview Smashed US Media Censorship Wall - Ex-Asst. Defense Secretary Carlson-Putin Interview Smashed US Media Censorship Wall - Ex-Asst. Defense Secretary Sputnik International Russian President Vladimir Putin broke through the impenetrable barrier of Western mainstream medias censorship to present directly to the American and European publics his proposals to end the Ukraine conflict, former US assistant secretary of defense for international security affairs Chas Freeman told Sputnik on Friday 2024-02-09T18:47+0000 2024-02-09T18:47+0000 2024-02-09T18:47+0000 russia putins interview with tucker carlson vladimir putin tucker carlson chas w. freeman russia ukraine nato sputnik https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/02/09/1116703365_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_7a824ce6849566301db9782681a658f3.jpg "Tucker Carlson has done the American public an enormous favor by offering it an opportunity to break past the wall of censorship by our oligopoly media and hear Mr. Putin directly," Freeman said. In his two-hour long interview with Carlson, the Russian president listed Moscow's conditions for bringing NATO's proxy full-scale war against Russia in Ukraine to a halt. Freeman said Putin was reiterating proposals to end the war he had repeatedly offered before and that Ukrainian negotiators in Istanbul in 2022 had wanted to accept before being pressured by the US and its NATO allies to reject. Putin confirmed to Carlson that Russia favored a negotiated settlement to the crisis in Ukraine, saying that it would be up to Kiev and its Western partners whether or not to accept it. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/in-carlson-interview-putin-outlined-concrete-conditions-for-resolution-of-ukrainian-crisis-1116698002.html russia ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International putin carlson, carlson-putin interview, highlights from the carlson-putin interview, what did putin say in carlson-putin interview, putin on nato, putin on ukraine https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/fact-check-general-syrsky-hero-of-kiev-or-butcher-of-bakhmut-1116691878.html Fact Check: General Syrsky, Hero of Kiev or Butcher of Bakhmut? Fact Check: General Syrsky, Hero of Kiev or Butcher of Bakhmut? Sputnik International The mainstream media have spent the better part of a day pumping up newly appointed Ukrainian Armed Forces commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrsky as a modern-day von Clausewitz, hailing him as the commander almost singlehandedly responsible for the defense of Kiev during the first weeks of the conflict with Russia. Heres what such reports are hiding. 2024-02-09T13:04+0000 2024-02-09T13:04+0000 2024-02-09T16:02+0000 military volodymyr zelensky valery zaluzhny vladimir putin kiev russia istanbul ground forces nato sputnik's fact check https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/02/09/1116691714_0:0:1360:765_1920x0_80_0_0_190f3c5031f8a9d4c398e36cb23a30db.jpg The recent decision by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to oust his top general and to replace him with Ground Forces commander Oleksandr Syrsky sent shockwaves throughout the media establishments of Kievs NATO patrons. Legacy outlets reactions included fears that the political leadership in Kiev may have undermined confidence among the military by swapping General Valery Zaluzhny with Syrsky, and concerns that President Zelenskys new pet general may not be able to resist political interference in operational matters.Other outlets attempted a positive spin on things, pumping up Syrskys ego as a brilliant strategist, with Bloomberg pointing to his supposed key role in the defense of Kiev against all odds at the start of Russias military operation in 2022, and Business Insider hailing his command as a shocking upset that surprised many who assumed the capital would fall quickly. AFP went so far as to suggest that it was Syrsky who scuppered the Kremlins" purported "plans to bring the country to its knees within days. President Zelensky awarded Syrsky the "Hero of Ukraine" title for the operation.Russia began withdrawing troops from Kiev region on March 29, 2022. The same day, peace talks resumed in Istanbul, Turkiye. Ahead of the negotiations, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkiye confirmed that Russian and Ukrainian negotiators were close to reaching a deal, with Kiev accepting neutrality and non-bloc status.But after Russian troops were gone and Syrskys forces came in to replace them without a shot being fired, Zelensky immediately went back on his word and scuppered talks. After we withdrew the troops from Kiev, as we promised to do, the Kiev authorities, as their masters usually do, threw [the peace deal] in the dustbin of history, Russian President Vladimir Putin said at a meeting with African leaders last June, holding up the text of an agreement with Kiev which included permanent neutrality enshrined in Ukraines constitution, security guarantees, and even details on the size of its standing army in peacetime.In his bombshell interview with Tucker Carlson on Thursday, President Putin reiterated that Russia made the decision to bull back from the Ukrainian capital in the expectation that it would result in a peace deal.Syrskys fortunes would continue along the same vein through the autumn of 2022, when, during an operational regrouping of Russian forces to concentrate troops along a smaller front as additional troops were called up during Russias partial mobilization, the commander was hailed, again without any particular skilled maneuvers on his part, for the so-called Kharkov counteroffensive, which saw Ukrainian forces reoccupying much of the region with almost no resistance as Russian forces pulled back.Unfortunately for the commander, his good luck finally ran out in the spring of 2023, when, at Zelenskys behest, he proved his true capabilities as a grand strategist by shoving wave after wave of Ukrainian troops into meat grinder battles in the Donbass city of Artemovsk (Bakhmut), losing tens of thousands of men, with Russian troops liberating the city anyway last May after months of bloody street to street and house to house fighting.In the first weeks of Ukraines summer 2023 counteroffensive against heavily entrenched Russian positions in Zaporozhye, Kherson, and Donbass, Syrsky, as commander of Ukraine's Ground Forces, first boasted that the operation was going according to plans that were drawn up and approved, but quickly changed his tune, saying very fast results would be practically impossible, and that Ukraine would have to be content with small victories.The latter never came, with Kiev losing well over 100,000 of its best troops in the counteroffensive, which now-ousted Commander-in-Chief Zaluzhny admitted in November had turned into a stalemate. That admission, combined with the generals popularity among the troops compared to Zelensky, and reported attempts to pursue a ceasefire with Russia, ultimately cost Zaluzhny his job.As for Syrsky, while he has been hailed as the "hero of Kiev" by Zelensky and Western media, his reputation among the troops is reportedly the far less flattering "Butcher," and "General 200," a reference to "Cargo 200," a Soviet, Russian, and Ukrainian code term referring to the transportion of fallen soldiers.A veteran trooper put things more simply. Were all f***ed, he wrote. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230617/putin-kiev-threw-possible-russia-ukraine-settlement-deal-into-dustbin-of-history-1111251774.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/putins-interview-with-carlson-on-x-watched-by-over-50mln-people-in-6-hours-1116689040.html kiev russia istanbul Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Ilya Tsukanov Ilya Tsukanov News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Ilya Tsukanov what is commander syrsky's battlefield record, what is oleksandr's reputation among ukrainian troops, who is oleksandr syrsky, ukraine, russia, conflict, battles https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/german-lawmaker-calls-for-elements-of-war-economy-to-supply-arms-to-ukraine-independently-1116690622.html German Lawmaker Calls for 'Elements of War Economy' to Supply Arms to Ukraine Independently German Lawmaker Calls for 'Elements of War Economy' to Supply Arms to Ukraine Independently Sputnik International Germany and the European Union need to introduce "elements of the war economy" at the expense of civil projects to supply Ukraine with arms and ammunition independently, German lawmaker Marcus Faber, who serves as defense expert from the Free Democratic Party, said Thursday. 2024-02-09T10:07+0000 2024-02-09T10:07+0000 2024-02-09T10:07+0000 economy ukraine germany european union (eu) weapon https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/02/07/1116651314_0:0:2000:1125_1920x0_80_0_0_b213e8d21819bb3511e449b1272d9cd8.jpg In an interview with German tabloid Bild, Faber listed three "elements of the war economy" that need to be introduced in Germany and the entire European Union, namely guarantees and loans for defense companies and prioritization of weapons production over peaceful projects. Faber added that defense companies should be provided with access to resources, including steel and chemical products, by creating reserves in Germany and across Europe. Faber made his statement after the US Senate blocked a $118 billion supplemental funding bill with aid for Ukraine and Israel, as well as immigration reforms and national security measures, on Wednesday, calling it a "worrying sign." Western countries, including member states of the European Union, have been providing military and financial aid to Kiev since the start of Russia's special military operation in Ukraine in February 2022. The Kremlin has consistently warned against continued arms deliveries to Kiev, saying it would lead to further escalation of the conflict. In April 2022, Russia sent a diplomatic note to all NATO countries on the issue of arms supplies to Ukraine. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has warned that any cargo containing weapons for Ukraine will become a legitimate target for Russian strikes. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240129/nato-secretary-general-believes-weapons-for-ukraine-are-the-way-to-peace--1116476997.html ukraine germany Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International german lawmaker, european union, german lawmaker marcus faber https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/houthis-say-all-warships-must-leave-red-sea-as-brit-ship-sent-off-for-refit-following-militia-1116697236.html Houthis Say All Warships Must Leave Red Sea as Brit Ship Sent Off for Refit Following Militia Attack Houthis Say All Warships Must Leave Red Sea as Brit Ship Sent Off for Refit Following Militia Attack Sputnik International The UK is the only US ally to have committed anything besides a handful of shipless seamen to take part in the American-led operation to try to contain the Houthis in the Red Sea amid the Yemeni militias attempts to close the waterway to Israeli-linked shipping. 2024-02-09T14:09+0000 2024-02-09T14:09+0000 2024-02-09T14:09+0000 mohammed ali al-houthi red sea yemen houthis houthi hms diamond hms richmond red sea crisis military https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/106547/14/1065471414_55:0:946:501_1920x0_80_0_0_d36d810a308389422cd12e014b0d184e.jpg The Houthis will continue to fire on Western warships operating in the Red Sea, with the goal being to force all foreigners out of the region, Yemeni Supreme Political Council member Mohammed Ali al-Houthi has announced.Houthi-affiliated media released footage earlier in the week showing what appeared to be a cruise missile appearing to strike a warship, later said to be the HMS Diamond, and setting it ablaze.Britains Ministry of Defense did not comment on the footage, but did confirm Tuesday that the Royal Navys HMS Richmond frigate would be taking the HMS Diamonds place to continue to ensure freedom of navigation in the Red Sea as the latter is taken out of service for refit.HMS Diamond joined Operation Prosperity Guardianin December and has maintained a near constant presence in a high threat area of the Red Sea, the MoD said in a statement. The destroyer came under fire in three separate attacks by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels, successfully destroying nine drones using her world-class Sea Viper missile system and guns, the ministry added.The warship is now expected to undergo a period of maintenance and resupply as HMS Richmond takes over her important mission, the MoD said.Coalition forces have been extremely sensitive in discussing Houthi attacks, possible casualties or injuries in the Red Sea mission. Last week, US authorities revised their story about the deaths of two Navy SEALs, who were lost at sea in the Red Sea, indicating that the troops perished while trying to board a ship suspected of trying to smuggle weapons to Yemen.Separately this week, the Houthis reported an attack on the Morning Tide, a Barbados-flagged, British-owned cargo ship, and the Star Nasia, a Marshall Islands-flagged American ship. The company operating the Morning Tide confirmed that its vessel had been struck in a drone attack on February 6, causing minor damage to the port side of the vessel. No injuries were reported.Besides the US, Britain is the only country to have committed warships to the American-led Red Sea coalition, with other countries sending symbolic support such as handfuls of seamen or information sharing assistance, and the European Union announcing plans for its own mission in the region.Since January 13, US and British warships have launched multiple waves of strikes on targets inside Yemen meant to weaken the Houthis missile and drone capabilities. But the militia has remained defiant, responding with attacks of its own against coalition warships, and vowing to continue targeting coalition vessels and commercial cargo ships owned or operated by or heading to or from Israel for as long as the Israeli military continues its military campaign against Gaza. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240208/germany-sends-frigate-for-possible-participation-in-eu-red-sea-mission-1116666422.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240207/us-uk-strikes-hit-yemens-hudaydah-province---local-source-1116654379.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240207/houthis-can-play-the-long-game-suez-canal-shipping-revenues-cut-nearly-in-half--1116634527.html red sea yemen Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Ilya Tsukanov Ilya Tsukanov News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Ilya Tsukanov did houthis hit a british warship in red sea, what is britain doing in the red sea, red sea crisis, houthi, militia, yemen, yemeni https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/in-carlson-interview-putin-outlined-concrete-conditions-for-resolution-of-ukrainian-crisis-1116698002.html In Carlson Interview, Putin Outlined Concrete Conditions for Resolution of Ukrainian Crisis In Carlson Interview, Putin Outlined Concrete Conditions for Resolution of Ukrainian Crisis Sputnik International In his two-hour-long interview with Tucker Carlson, the Russian president outlined Moscows conditions for bringing the two-year-old NATO-Russia proxy war in Ukraine to an end. Now, the ball is in the Wests court, according to Russian international affairs expert Dmitry Suslov. 2024-02-09T15:27+0000 2024-02-09T15:27+0000 2024-02-09T15:27+0000 analysis vladimir putin tucker carlson russia ukraine istanbul nato putins interview with tucker carlson https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/02/09/1116698991_0:320:3072:2048_1920x0_80_0_0_a09d1b7a352e9cf8e81aaad65633312c.jpg President Putin has confirmed to Tucker Carlson that Russia favors a negotiated settlement to the crisis in Ukraine, saying that it will be up to Kiev and its Western partners whether or not to accept it.Well, you missed it, you made a mistake, let them go back to that, thats all. Why do we have to bother ourselves and correct somebody elses mistakes? Putin added, hinting Moscows readiness to return to the Istanbul format, which reportedly included non-bloc status enshrined in Ukraines constitution, security guarantees from world powers, restrictions on the size of the Ukrainian military, accepting Crimea and the Donbasss status as part of Russia, etc.Asked by Carlson whether Kievs NATO sponsors will be willing to accept a Russian victory in Ukraine, Putin said the alliance should think how to do it with dignity, noting that there are options if there is a will.Unfortunately, Putin said, up until now there has been uproar and screaming about inflicting a strategic defeat on Russia on the battlefield. Now they are apparently coming to realize that it is difficult to achieve. If possible at all. In my opinion, it is impossible by definition, it is never going to happen. In event case, Russia remains ready for this dialogue, Putin stressed.Putin identified the concrete conditions on which Russia would be ready to end the conflict through diplomacy. And this is first, the recognition of the current territorial settlement. Putin bluntly said that it's up for NATO to look for and to find a form which could be, I mean, not humiliating for them, but accepts the current territorial settlement, the academic noted. Putin bluntly again identified the Istanbul communique as the basis to which Russia could return. And that from the Russian perspective, the process could be resumed at any moment.Thirdly, he identified in a very detailed way the condition of denazification and explained what it means, and also, mentioned that it was partly included into the Istanbul communique. So, I think that this is a very important message, that if the United States is ready for serious negotiation on the basis of these conditions, Russia would not hesitate to resume and to start those negotiations, Suslov said.Unfortunately, the observer noted, Putin has reason to be skeptical about Kievs Western sponsors sincerity, given the seemingly unchanging imperative of US geopolitical hostility against and arrogance toward Russia.Nevertheless, the observer noted that if Donald Trump, who has expressed a desire to end the Ukrainian crisis and normalize relations with Russia, were to return to power and bring fundamentally new representatives of the US elites to powerthat situation could change. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/putins-interview-with-carlson-on-x-watched-by-over-50mln-people-in-6-hours-1116689040.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/tucker-carlson-shares-his-impressions-of-interview-with-putin-1116688869.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/watch-in-full-president-putins-interview-to-tucker-carlson-1116683752.html russia ukraine istanbul Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Ilya Tsukanov Ilya Tsukanov News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Ilya Tsukanov what are putin's conditions for peace in ukraine, what did vladimir putin tell tucker carlson about peace in ukraine https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/iran-says-israel-will-drown-us-in-war-morass-of-middle-east-1116702577.html Iran Says Israel Will Drown US in 'War Morass' of Middle East Iran Says Israel Will Drown US in 'War Morass' of Middle East Sputnik International The Israeli authorities will drown Washington in a "war morass" in the Middle East as Israel has so far failed to achieve the goals of its military operation in the Gaza Strip despite four months of hostilities against Hamas, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said on Friday 2024-02-09T17:54+0000 2024-02-09T17:54+0000 2024-02-09T17:54+0000 world palestine-israel conflict middle east israel gaza strip hamas gaza violence us military aid https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/01/1e/1116500566_0:101:3072:1829_1920x0_80_0_0_c33d3b1253fe08612b49b891f200c6a7.jpg "After four months of war, it is obvious that Tel Aviv has not achieved any of its goals. Further support for [Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahu by the United States will not bring along anything other than a clear failure. The Israeli regime is making the US drown in the war morass in the Middle East," the Tasnim news agency quoted Amirabdollahian as saying on arrival in Beirut. Hamas has already proposed its plan of political normalization of the Palestine-Israel conflict, the Iranian foreign minister added. He also urged the US "not to support Israel in its crimes against the Gaza Strip." This Friday, Amirabdollahian is paying an official visit to Lebanon to discuss the situation in the Middle East, mainly on the Palestinian-Israeli front. 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. More than 100 hostages are still believed to be held by Hamas in Gaza. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240208/israels-destruction-of-buildings-in-gaza-along-border-equals-military-crime---un-human-rights-chief-1116669332.html israel gaza strip Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International gaza genocide, is israel committing genocide, whats happening with gaza, israeli genocide against palestinians, will israel be charged with genocide, whos backing israel, un hearing on gaza, current developments in gaza, whats happening to palestinians, us military aid to israel, us arms supplies to israel, us violating international law, what weapons is israel getting from us https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/moscow-ready-to-serve-as-consultative-platform-for-palestinian-case-1116700788.html Moscow Ready to Serve as Consultative Platform for Palestinian Case Moscow Ready to Serve as Consultative Platform for Palestinian Case Sputnik International Moscow is ready to serve as a platform for multilateral consultations on the Palestinian issue as soon as the acute phase of the Middle Eastern conflict is over, Russian Ambassador to Israel Anatoly Viktorov told Sputnik 2024-02-09T16:17+0000 2024-02-09T16:17+0000 2024-02-09T16:17+0000 world palestine-israel conflict anatoly viktorov israel moscow palestine hamas palestine liberation organization salih muslim shuwa arab https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/02/09/1116700628_0:137:3153:1911_1920x0_80_0_0_ffd67d4ce40fed2b585443afa7a9b0a7.jpg "The first and foremost task is an immediate ceasefire. After the acute phase of the current escalation is over, we suggest convening multilateral consultations in Moscow at a ministerial level aimed at harmonizing the initial approaches of regional actors to the issue of ensuring the Palestinian unity as well as to the issue of the Middle Eastern settlement in general," Viktorov said. At the second stage, the platform could include the members of the leading Palestinian organizations, which should be under the umbrella of the political wing of the Palestine Liberation Organization, he noted. For the next stage, Moscow offers to hold an international conference for the Middle Eastern settlement to proclaim the state of Palestine, as well as to work out concrete measures which would ensure Israels security and normalize its relations with the Arab and Muslim states, the diplomat added. "[We] also mean a broader idea of creating a collective security system in the Persian Gulf zone and, generally, in the Middle East," Viktorov underlined. 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. More than 100 hostages are still believed to be held by Hamas in Gaza. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/netanyahu-tasks-idf-to-present-plan-on-evacuation-of-civilians-from-rafah---office-1116699373.html israel moscow palestine gaza strip Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International gaza genocide, is israel committing genocide, whats happening with gaza, israeli genocide against palestinians, will israel be charged with genocide, whos backing israel, un hearing on gaza, current developments in gaza, whats happening to palestinians, us military aid to israel, us arms supplies to israel, us violating international law, what weapons is israel getting from us https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/palestinian-american-woman-samaher-esmail-detained-by-idf-1116675819.html IDF Detains Palestinian-American Woman for Alleged Hamas Support IDF Detains Palestinian-American Woman for Alleged Hamas Support Sputnik International A 46-year-old woman, Samaher Esmail, was pulled out of bed in her familys West Bank home and arrested by IDF soldiers on Monday, according to her son who lives in the US state of Louisiana. 2024-02-09T04:57+0000 2024-02-09T04:57+0000 2024-02-09T05:05+0000 world palestine-israel conflict israel defense forces (idf) benjamin netanyahu palestine hamas hostages prisoners political prisoners https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/01/1a/1116395688_0:0:811:457_1920x0_80_0_0_73591783c220ddb72ed59bb7936be686.jpg A 46-year-old woman, Samaher Esmail, was pulled out of bed in her familys West Bank home and arrested by IDF soldiers on Monday, according to her son who lives in the US state of Louisiana.The family of the Palestinian-American woman as well as the US government is now seeking information about her case.The IDF confirmed Esmails arrest, allegeding her incitement on social media. She was arrested near the Silwad village, but the IDF did not detail where she was taken, though they said that she had been transferred to the security forces for further questioning. They added that she was being held by Israeli police, not the military.But Esmails son says that her post on social media did not reference Hamas, and that she has only called for an end to the occupation, not a support for Hamas, specifically.Hamed also posted a video to social media showing armored vehicles outside the familys home during the arrest. It was also reported that windows were left broken and belongings had appeared to be tossed around a bedroom during the arrest.Esmail is also a resident of Louisiana, and her congressmember, Troy Carter, said on Monday that he had contacted the US Embassy and the State Department in an effort to secure her release.Her sister, Sana Esmail, said that she is concerned about her because she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer and needs medication.Recently, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected a proposal by Hamas for a three-phase ceasefire, in which it was proposed that Hamas would release all Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. Netanyahu rejected the ceasefire and said that the war would continue.Health officials say the Israeli attacks since October 7 have brought the Palestinian death toll to nearly 28,000. The UN has also warned that the risk of famine in Gaza is increasing by the day. https://sputnikglobe.com/20231215/idf-reveals-forces-mistakenly-killed-three-israeli-hostages-in-gaza-1115612647.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240207/hamas-3-stage-truce-plan-hanging-in-balance-because-of-israel-1116648596.html palestine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Mary Manley https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/01/0b/1092187887_0:0:2048:2049_100x100_80_0_0_0c2cc4c84f89aff034cc55bb01fb6697.jpg Mary Manley https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/01/0b/1092187887_0:0:2048:2049_100x100_80_0_0_0c2cc4c84f89aff034cc55bb01fb6697.jpg News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Mary Manley https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/01/0b/1092187887_0:0:2048:2049_100x100_80_0_0_0c2cc4c84f89aff034cc55bb01fb6697.jpg palestine, israel, palestinian-israeli conflict, gaza, arrest, idf, palestinian-american woman arrested, jews arrest women, jews arrest palestine woma https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/russian-president-explaines-meaning-of-denazification-to-tucker-carlson-1116678400.html Putin Clarifies 'Denazification' to Tucker Carlson Putin Clarifies 'Denazification' to Tucker Carlson Sputnik International Russian President Vladimir Putin explained to Tucker Carlson what he means with the term "denazification" when referring to the objectives of the special military operation. 2024-02-09T06:21+0000 2024-02-09T06:21+0000 2024-02-09T13:03+0000 world vladimir putin tucker carlson adolf hitler ukraine russia canadian parliament neo-nazism neo-nazism in ukraine putins interview with tucker carlson https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/02/09/1116686075_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_56e127c51acde444a3e48945b48e1def.jpg "You say Hitler has been dead for so many years, 80 years. But, his example lives on. The people who exterminated Jews, Russians or Poles are alive. And the president, the current president of today's Ukraine, applauds him in the Canadian Parliament, gives [him, 98-year-old Yaroslav Hunka] a standing ovation. Can we say that we have completely uprooted this ideology, If what we see is happening today? That's what denazification is in our understanding. We have to get rid of those people who maintain this concept, and support this practice and try to preserve it. That is what denazification is, that is what we mean," Putin said during an exclusive interview with the American journalist that was released Thursday.The Russian president noted that despite the fact that Nazi dictator Adolf Hitler had died 80 years ago, some continue to support his ideas, pointing to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and the stunning 2023 incident in which members of the Canadian Parliament honored a 98-year-old Nazi collaborator and wartime SS member.Putin also detailed that during peace negotiations with Ukraine in Istanbul, an agreement was reached in writing that "neo-Nazism would not be cultivated in Ukraine, including that it would be prohibited at the legislative level." Turning again to Russia's special military operation, Putin further acknowledged that it has not yet achieved its objectives, emphasizing the significance of denazification, including a ban on neo-Nazi movements.Putin spoke in Russian during the interview, and the quotes were provided through an official translation by Carlson's team in English. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240207/trudeau-invited-nazi-veteran-hunka-to-attend-parliament-session---russian-embassy-1116631795.html ukraine russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International tucker carlson interview vladimir putin, exclusive putin interview, ukraine conflict, tucker carlson, vladimir putin,, denazification, russian goals https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/scotus-hears-trump-ballot-case-bolsonaro-accused-of-coup-plotting-1116677070.html SCOTUS Hears Trump Ballot Case, Bolsonaro Accused of Coup Plotting SCOTUS Hears Trump Ballot Case, Bolsonaro Accused of Coup Plotting Sputnik International The Ukrainian president fires his commander in chief, and planes collide at Bostons Logan Airport. 2024-02-09T04:14+0000 2024-02-09T04:14+0000 2024-02-09T08:45+0000 political misfits scotus donald trump brazil jair bolsonaro pakistan iraq vladimir putin tucker carlson https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/02/08/1116677413_0:0:1920:1080_1920x0_80_0_0_737edbb4049c5d0344314509084b6d59.png SCOTUS Hears Trump Ballot Case, Bolsonaro Accused of Coup Plotting Sputnik International The Ukrainian president fires his commander in chief, and planes collide at Bostons Logan Airport. Adjunct professor and former general counsel of the NAACP Kim Keenan joins Misfits hosts Michelle Witte and John Kiriakou to discuss arguments before the Supreme Court on removing former President Donald Trump from ballots, what the court is likely to decide, and why this decision would only apply to primary ballots. She also addresses the panic among Democrats regarding increasing interest in third parties, what might come from left-of-center candidates attending the Libertarian national convention, growing resentment over Mitch McConnells leadership among Republican Senators, and the return of the government shutdown fears.English-language Brazil correspondent for TeleSur Brian Mier discusses the investigation into former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro over allegations he and members of his cabinet conspired to carry out a military coup, what public evidence exists for these accusations, where Bolsonaros base has gone, and what prosecution those targeted in the investigation might face. He also explains why some US media outlets insist that what happened in Brazil following the 2022 election is identical to the social unrest in the US after the 2020 election.Independent investigative journalist Christopher Helali discusses the latest US drone attack in Baghdad, Pakistani elections being carried out amid violence, why Hamas and Israel havent been able to come to another deal to pause or end their war, and the media freakout over Tucker Carlsons interview with Russian President Vladimir Putin.Belfast-based political commentator and socialist activist Phil Kelly discusses the expansion of farmer protests across European cities over EU policies for agriculture, how the protests have been characterized in media and across society, how EU governments have reacted to these demonstrations, how to see the shadow of the Ukraine war over these protests, and how Northern Ireland was finally able to put together a government.The Misfits also discuss President Joe Biden communing with the dead, and the suspension of Democratic Primary candidate Marianne Williamson.The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of Sputnik.We'd love to get your feedback at radio@sputniknews.comCatch us in the US at 105.5FM, 104.7FM, 102.9FM, 1390AM, 1140AM brazil pakistan iraq ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Michelle Witte https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/02/11/1082103644_0:1:240:241_100x100_80_0_0_aa1e89cc3422c54bfdeb46decb112e73.jpg Michelle Witte https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/02/11/1082103644_0:1:240:241_100x100_80_0_0_aa1e89cc3422c54bfdeb46decb112e73.jpg News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Michelle Witte https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/02/11/1082103644_0:1:240:241_100x100_80_0_0_aa1e89cc3422c54bfdeb46decb112e73.jpg political misfits, what is bolsonaro charged for, scotus vs trump, trump 2024 campaign, tucker interviews putin, election in pakistan https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/tea-slows-down-aging-process-in-humans---study-1116700090.html Tea Slows Down Aging Process in Humans - Study Tea Slows Down Aging Process in Humans - Study Sputnik International Lifestyle changes can slow aging and prevent related diseases, but it seems that drinking tea can also help. 2024-02-09T18:27+0000 2024-02-09T18:27+0000 2024-02-09T18:27+0000 beyond politics sichuan university lancet britain china science & tech society newsfeed https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/107801/95/1078019569_0:257:2730:1793_1920x0_80_0_0_34741e730fb46527aeca3b466212d597.jpg Drinking three cups of tea regularly seems can delay aging, a study published in The Lancet suggest. Researchers from Chinas Sichuan University discovered that certain chemical compounds called polyphenols in tea contribute to the effect.The scientists examined data from around 8,000 people in China aged 30 to 79 and about 6,000 volunteers from Britain aged 37 to 73. They gathered details of the volunteers' food consumption patterns, and told them to record the quantity of tea they consumed.The study team also measured participants' blood pressure, cholesterol levels and body fat percentage. They used these details to assess the respondents' apparent age.Researchers found that individuals who drink tea regularly tend to experience a slower biological aging process. The phenomenon was attributed to polyphenols, a special plant-derived compound in tea. Polyphenols are recognized for their ability to combat aging by reducing inflammation and possessing detoxifying effects.However, the researchers pointed out that their study was observational and could not confirm whether tea consumption was directly linked to slower ageing. At the same time, they observed that participants who stopped drinking tea seemed to age faster.The study did not investigate if certain varieties of tea were more effective in slowing aging than others, finding no significant differences between tea drinkers in China and the UK. Tea temperature also had no effect, and researchers did not ask about the size of the teacups used. https://sputnikglobe.com/20231010/russia-china-mongolia-to-launch-great-tea-road-tourist-route-economy-ministry-1114071674.html britain china Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Chimauchem Nwosu https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/01/1113046371_0:99:1536:1635_100x100_80_0_0_9c5c627283eca931c39fe4852bbb301c.jpg Chimauchem Nwosu https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/01/1113046371_0:99:1536:1635_100x100_80_0_0_9c5c627283eca931c39fe4852bbb301c.jpg News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Chimauchem Nwosu https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/01/1113046371_0:99:1536:1635_100x100_80_0_0_9c5c627283eca931c39fe4852bbb301c.jpg tea, polyphenols, tea consumption. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/tucker-carlson-shares-his-impressions-of-interview-with-putin-1116688869.html Tucker Carlson Shares His Impressions of Interview With Putin Tucker Carlson Shares His Impressions of Interview With Putin Sputnik International US journalist Tucker Carlson, after his interview with Russian President Vladimir Putin, shared his impression of the Russian leader and the discussion as a whole, mentioning that he got the impression that the politician is "very wounded by the rejection of the West" and angry about it. 2024-02-09T09:26+0000 2024-02-09T09:26+0000 2024-02-09T09:45+0000 putins interview with tucker carlson russia vladimir putin tucker carlson ukraine nato joe biden world https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/02/09/1116689568_0:0:3072:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_0668efe0c2f6def2f52dc6d644d00a42.jpg "The United States doesn't like Russia, the US government doesn't like Russia. I think, like a lot of Russians, he expected the end of the Cold War would be sort of Russia's invitation into Europe, or sort of into Europe, because it is a European country that's half an Asia. But there is a lot that is European about it, and if you come to Moscow, it's a very European city, you see it and you can feel it culturally. And the West rejected Russia," Tucker Carlson said.Carlson said his interview with Putin began with "an extremely detailed history going back to the 9th century of the formation of Russia from the tribes into a nation, and Ukraine's part in that," which was "really interesting" and "got much more interesting once I realized what it was, which is a window into how he thinks about the region." The media personality also showed a thick "old-fashioned" folder with documents handed over to him by the Russian president and called it his "nighttime reading." The journalist called Putin "smart" but noted that the Russian president is "not very good at explaining himself" as he is "clearly spending a lot of time in a world where he doesn't have to explain himself." Carlson also said that "Russia is not an expansionist power" as it is presented by "all the liars and ideologues who run the [US] State Department," adding that "you have to be an idiot to think that" since Russia is "too big already" and is "the biggest landmass in the world" with only 150 million people. The journalist also claimed that "professional liars in Washington who really do not know anything about the area or anything really about the world beyond New York," adding that "whatever Putin's many faults ... it's not an expansionist power." It was "striking" for Carlson that Putin "was willing to admit that he wants a peace deal in Ukraine." However,the US journalist said "Putin would go to war, nuclear war if it came down to Crimea," calling US officials "lunatics" for thinking "that a condition of peace is that Putin's gonna give up Crimea," because the peninsula is "the home of Russia's warm water fleet, it's got a Russian population, they had a referendum, they chose Russia, it's part of Russia, it's where Russian wine comes from." The journalist further said that Washington wants "a weak leadership in Russia," while questioning "how is that good for the United States," and saying that "a weak central government in a nation with the world's largest nuclear stockpile is insane." "You're just gonna sort of let the nuclear stockpile float free and hope the best thing happens? You're a freaking nutcase if you desire that. And we are run by nutcases. The [US] President [Joe Biden] and that poisonous moron, [Acting Deputy Secretary and US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs ] Victoria Nuland: 'We're gonna depose Putin.' Well, then what happens? What happened in Libya when we deposed and allowed, you know, [Libyan leader Muammar] Gaddafi be murdered? What happened in Iraq when we brought [former Iraqi President] Saddam [Hussein] to justice? Those countries fell apart and they've never been rebuilt again. In Afghanistan, we took out the central government, and they came back, it's still run by the Taliban [under UN sanctions for terrorism]," Carlson said, adding that "you're on drugs if you think that's a good idea" to do that to Russia. The interview, posted by the journalist on Thursday night, has already hit over 60 million views, more than 180,000 reposts and over 500,000 likes on X, and has been viewed by almost 3 million people on YouTube. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/putins-interview-may-help-stop-west-from-committing-suicide-1116684122.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240208/key-statements-from-tucker-carlson-interview-with-president-putin-1116677179.html russia ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International tucker carlson, interview with russian president vladimir putin https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/vassal-scholz-govt-ignoring-nord-stream-terrorism-despite-colossal-damage-done-to-germany-1116703509.html Vassal Scholz Govt Ignoring Nord Stream Terrorism Despite Colossal Damage Done to Germany Vassal Scholz Govt Ignoring Nord Stream Terrorism Despite Colossal Damage Done to Germany Sputnik International Tucker Carlson asked President Putin who he thought blew up the Nord Stream pipeline network and why, with the Russian leader offering a response which included an assessment of the sanity of the current German government. Sputnik reached out to a lawmaker from Germanys fastest growing opposition party for his take on Putins comments. 2024-02-09T19:04+0000 2024-02-09T19:04+0000 2024-02-09T19:16+0000 germany baltic sea russia vladimir putin tucker carlson bundestag social democrats nord stream alternative fuer deutschland (afd) nord stream sabotage https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/09/1d/1101347558_0:63:1200:738_1920x0_80_0_0_92adc02f32428ca312139dddc359fd1c.jpg Who blew up Nord Stream? Carlson asked Putin at the midpoint of his two-hour-long interview. You, for sure, Putin jokingly replied. I was busy that day. I did not blow up Nord Stream, Carlson assured. You personally may have an alibi, but the CIA has no such alibi, Putin answered.Asked why Germany, the main economic loser from the attack, has remained silent on the terrorist incident despite essentially being targeted by its own NATO ally, Putin said he believes todays German leadership is guided by the interests of the collective West rather than its [own] national interests.After all, it is not only about Nord Stream-1, which was blown up, and Nord Stream-2, which was damaged, but one pipe remains safe and sound, and gas can be supplied to Europe through it, but Germany does not open it, Putin said, pointing to the energy crisis currently rocking the country, and suggesting the nation is being led by highly incompetent people.Eugen Schmidt, a Bundestag lawmaker from the opposition Alternative for Germany (German acronym AfD) Party who has made several parliamentary inquiries on the matter, told Sputnik that the lack of interest in finding the culprits of the attack is a sign of not only incompetence, but vassal status.Instead, the lawmaker said, Germans have been treated to regular doses of misinformation in media reports citing intelligence officials that the Nord Stream attack was supposedly done by some group of Ukrainian swashbucklers, despite comments by Germanys own investigators that only a small handful of nations have the capability to target pipelines 80 meters underwater in the Baltic Sea.The politician recalled how President Biden warned publicly in February 2022, with Chancellor Scholz standing beside him, that the US would bring an end to Nord Stream if the Ukrainian crisis escalated.That is, there is a huge number of factors, plus Seymour Hershs investigation, all suggesting that the United States both planned and carried out this terrorist attack, Schmidt said.In the middle of it all, Germanys government has not only demonstrated absolute incompetence, but has shown that they are absolutely dependent on the United States, that they are not able to pursue any sovereign policy. Theyve shown their status as a vassal. Thats why theyre hiding the results of the investigation, the lawmaker believes.The authorities incompetence is perfectly highlighted by its reaction to possibly the worst economic crisis in Germanys postwar history, according to the lawmaker. Theyve recruited ideologically-motivated people who have no idea how the economy works or how to correctly implement the countrys policies, especially in economic terms, how to protect the countrys interests so that the economy works effectively.Instead, Schmidt lamented, the government is filled with officials whose top priorities include the climate agenda, or accepting even more immigrants into the country. No one is busy with the work for which they are there. They are simply carrying out their own ideological projects.The consequences include an economy bursting at the seams, with businesses closing and moving abroad, and Germany being treated like some kind of foreign policy dwarf on the world stage, the lawmaker said. Energy prices are breaking records. Were paying crazy amounts of money for American liquefied natural gas at the same time that were imposing sanctions on [Russian] pipeline gas.There are still sound political forces in Germany, Schmidt stressed, including AfD, and these are gaining more and more public support, resulting in media smear campaigns and accusations of Nazism, right-wing populism, and of being in bed with the Kremlin, which the lawmaker has personally experienced.This is a completely ridiculous and impossible situation that harms democracy in the country, Schmidt said, adding that unfortunately for the government, the attacks on the opposition are reflected in public opinion polling, where the ruling coalition has set records to become possibly the most unpopular government in German history.The latest polling by the Erfurt-based Institute for New Social Answers, one of Germanys leading social research institutions, has found the Traffic Light coalition government, which includes Chancellor Scholzs Social Democrats, the Greens and the Free Democratic Party, collectively polling at just 32 percent support. The same poll found that the mainstream socially conservative opposition Christian Democratic Union has 30 percent support, with the AfD sitting at 20.5 percent (5.5 percent more than Scholzs Social Democrats), and former Left Party lawmaker Sarah Wagenknechts new party at 7.5 support (three percent more than the Free Democrats).Germans are set to go to the polls sometime between late August and late October of 2025, unless the Bundestag is dissolved earlier and snap elections are called. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/german-lawmaker-calls-for-elements-of-war-economy-to-supply-arms-to-ukraine-independently-1116690622.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/germanys-economic-dilemmas-deepen-as-corporate-distress-takes-hold-1116662356.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240205/german-farmers-block-entrances-to-ndr-broadcasting-center-in-hanover-1116600843.html germany baltic sea russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Ilya Tsukanov Ilya Tsukanov News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Ilya Tsukanov why is germany ignoring nord stream attack, why is german government so incompetent, is germany a us vassal https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/watch-russian-t-90m-tanks-obliterate-ukrainian-positions-near-donetsk-1116701961.html Watch Russian T-90M Tanks Obliterate Ukrainian Positions Near Donetsk Watch Russian T-90M Tanks Obliterate Ukrainian Positions Near Donetsk Sputnik International Russian modernized T-90M tanks display their technical superiority and precision in an operation targeting position area of a Ukrainian unit in the Donetsk Peoples Republic (DPR). 2024-02-09T17:17+0000 2024-02-09T17:17+0000 2024-02-09T17:17+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine military & intelligence russia ukraine donetsk russian ministry of defense t-90m ministry of defense (mod) donetsk peoples republic https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/02/09/1116701766_0:0:1920:1080_1920x0_80_0_0_dea1c257d0666e195196cf87979236fb.jpg The Russian Ministry of Defense (MoD) has released footage showing Russian tank crews belonging to the Battlegroup Yug hit targets harboring enemy servicemen in special op zone.The modernized T-90M Proryv tanks took up to the fire positions considering the terrain features of the area, eliminated Ukrainian soldiers in their shelters, and neutralized their firing positions. This allowed Russian assault groups to advance further into the enemy's defense lines. russia ukraine donetsk Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Russian tankers of the Battlegroup Yug smash the enemy near Donetsk Sputnik International Russian tankers of the Battlegroup Yug smash the enemy near Donetsk in special op zone. 2024-02-09T17:17+0000 true PT0M37S 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International russias special military op in ukraine, special military operation, special military operational zone, special op zone, russian troops in special op zone, ukraine casualties in conflict, total ukrainian losses, how many people did ukraine loose, how many people did kiev loose, new russian weapons in ukraine, advanced russian weapons, russian defense ministry statements, latest russian military statements, what did shoigu say about ukraine, donetsk peoples republic, nato in ukraine, is nato in ukraine A large collection of handmade Chinese lanterns lit up one of Italy's major theme parks in the city of Cassino this holiday season. The International Lantern Festival "Lanternia" opened on Dec 8 at the Il Bosco delle Favole (Fairy Tale Forest) in central Italy. Divided into six areas and featuring Christmas, fairy tales, animal and animation themes, this large-scale display covers some 110,000 square meters and 2.5 kilometers of pathways, all illuminated with giant Chinese lanterns. The exhibition, which will run until March 10, received more than 2,000 visitors on Jan 28. This was also the opening day of Carnival, a traditional Italian holiday. "The lanterns are popular with Italians," says Domenico Durante, director of the exhibition. As of Jan 28, the lantern had attracted about 80,000 visitors, he adds, with 1,000 to 5,000 people entering the park each day. The success of the exhibition is due to the exquisite handiwork of artisans in Zigong, Sichuan province, a city known for its lantern culture. A team of 15 people came to Cassino at the end of last year to work for a month, handicrafting hundreds of lanterns. The lanterns are made of silk, an eco-friendly material that is lightweight, nonpolluting and resilient. They are illuminated with the latest low-power LEDs, reminiscent of candles or traditional light sources. According to Durante, the distinctly Chinese lanterns are new and very attractive to Italians. Visitors came from the north and south of the country to see them. Damiano Vincenzo drove over 50 minutes from Beneventoto to the park with his family. "I really like these typical lanterns," he says. His son Matias especially loves dragon lanterns, not only because of their wonderful colors but also because that "the dragon's head moves". Another visitor, Matteo, went after reading about Chinese lanterns on the official website and says that the lanterns are "as beautiful as imagined". The exhibition originated in a trip that Durante took to Zigong, where he was impressed by this traditional art and decided to bring it to his hometown. "Next year, we might do more lanterns with Chinese characteristics and bring the exhibition to other Italian cities like Florence, or even all over the world," he says. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/watch-russian-tor-mu-destroys-ukrainian-reconnaissance-drone-1116673055.html Watch Russian Tor-MU Destroy Ukrainian Reconnaissance Drone Watch Russian Tor-MU Destroy Ukrainian Reconnaissance Drone Sputnik International Russian air defense systems keep advancing thanks to the military experience on the ground in the special operation zone, proving to be second to none in today's ever-changing warfare. 2024-02-09T04:13+0000 2024-02-09T04:13+0000 2024-02-09T06:01+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine military & intelligence russia ukraine russian ministry of defense air defense system air defense https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/02/08/1116671345_0:0:1920:1080_1920x0_80_0_0_f2a2d7f64c395ef007a1d0d13cfb29c4.jpg The Russian Ministry of Defense (MoD) has released footage showing military units from Battlegroup Vostok destroying a Ukrainian reconnaissance drone with a Tor-MU Surface-to-air missile system (SAM). During the combat mission, Russian troops took up a firing position, identified an approaching Ukrainian drone using radar, and launched a high precision missile strike. russia ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Russian Tor-MU SAM systems wipe out Ukrainian reconnaissance UAVs Sputnik International Russian Tor-MU SAM systems wipe out Ukrainian reconnaissance UAVs 2024-02-09T04:13+0000 true PT0M31S 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International russias special military op in ukraine, special military operation, special military operational zone, special op zone, russian troops in special op zone, ukraine casualties in conflict, total ukrainian losses, how many people did ukraine loose, how many people did kiev loose, new russian weapons in ukraine, advanced russian weapons, russian defense ministry statements, latest russian military statements, what did shoigu say about ukraine, donetsk peoples republic, nato in ukraine, is nato in ukraine https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/zaluzhnys-resignation-appointment-of-syrsky-will-not-change-special-operation---kremlin-1116690753.html Zaluzhny's Resignation, Appointment of Syrsky Will Not Change Special Operation - Kremlin Zaluzhny's Resignation, Appointment of Syrsky Will Not Change Special Operation - Kremlin Sputnik International The resignation of Ukraine Commander-in-Chief Valery Zaluzhny and the appointment of Oleksandr Syrsky will not change the course of Russia's special operation, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Friday. 2024-02-09T10:13+0000 2024-02-09T10:13+0000 2024-02-09T10:13+0000 russia valery zaluzhny dmitry peskov volodymyr zelensky russia ukraine https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/01/18/1116353549_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_08a87ed6cfd04b0a5dcb1662cf5e9d57.jpg "We do not consider these factors to change the course of the special operation," Peskov told a briefing. Russia will continue its actions until it reaches all goals, the spokesman added.Earlier, Volodymyr Zelensky said he appointed Oleksand Syrsky as the new commander-in-chief of the armed forces. Zelensky said that he discussed the renewal of the Ukrainian armed forces with its current Commander-in-Chief Valery Zaluzhny, and proposed him to "remain a part of the team." https://sputnikglobe.com/20240204/zelenskyy-confirms-thinking-about-replacing-armed-forces-commander-in-chief-zaluzhny-1116589858.html russia ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International resignation of ukraine commander-in-chief valery zaluzhny, russia's special operation When Michael Girouard climbs into the sulky for Fridays first race at The Meadowlands, it will be the Massachusetts natives first drive at the Big M in 19 years. His next will come much quicker, just several hours later. Girouard is set to drive two horses from his seven-horse stable on Friday, Feb. 9 at The Meadowlands, sitting behind Furious Beach in the opener and Kick The Dirt Up in the 10th. The two races are among three Meadowlands Amateur Drivers Club events on the card. Hopefully, Ill have a little luck, said Girouard, who will enter the night with two lifetime starts at the Big M. No matter what, Ill definitely have some fun. Girouard, a fourth-generation horseman who jogged his first horse at the age of five, has won 130 races as a driver and 542 as a trainer. He was introduced to the sport by his grandfather, Norman Letendre, while growing up in Spencer, Massachusetts. Growing up near my grandfather, I caught the bug at an early age, said Girouard. He never had a big stable, but he always had two to five horses of his own that he would train and drive. I always wanted to hang out with him as a kid. He got me hooked. Girouard got his first driving win in 1998 at Pompano Park and first training victories the following year at the newly opened Plainridge Park. He scaled back his participation in racing for several years in the mid-2010s to focus on a trucking business but returned fulltime in 2017. Since then, his training stable has won 181 races and $1.23 million in purses. I just liked the horses better, Girouard said about coming back to the sport. I enjoy working with the horses and being my own boss. The competition is fun too, especially at Plainridge. The purse structure at Plainridge is phenomenal. But I just enjoy being around the horses. Girouard, who is stabled in Spencer, saw his stable earn $258,952 last year, falling just shy of his career-best $279,602 set in 2021. However, he had 65 fewer starts in 2023. Last year, I cut down to like five horses for most of the year, said Girouard. I had a couple decent ones. Theyre all cheap horses that I have. The most expensive horse in my barn is $8,300. It puts me at a little bit of a disadvantage, but its still fun. [Kick The Dirt Up] made almost $80,000 last year. I claimed him for $8,000 [in 2021]. Ive got another horse thats just started back. My owner paid only $8,200 for him and he made over $90,000. Its nice. We got lucky and had a couple nice horses. As for driving, Girouard has most recently focused primarily on amateur events in Massachusetts and Maine. Its fun to drive in the amateurs, but I never get the itch to drive my own horses every week in regular races, said Girouard. But I do enjoy it when Im out there. Girouard had considered trying the amateurs at The Meadowlands for several years, but never thought the time was right until now. It just never worked out where I thought the horses were good enough to go down there, said Girouard. Im hoping to race there in the amateurs at least until Plainridge opens [in mid-April]. Well see how it goes Friday night. If it works out well and the horses are competitive, I might go there longer. Furious Beach will start from post nine in Fridays first race and is 8-1 on the morning line. Kick The Dirt Up, who is making his seasonal debut, will leave from post two in the 10th and is 12-1. With Furious Beach, were going to need a little luck from the nine-hole, said Girouard. Kick The Dirt Up made a break at Cumberland in December and then got sick and I had to give him some time off. Pound for pound, hes probably as good as anything in the race, but with it being his first start I dont really know what to expect. Girouard said he recognizes that a number of people will be watching him drive at The Meadowlands, adding with a laugh, If you screw up, you know your buddies are going to be texting you to bust on you. I just wish I had a better post with one of them and the other one was a little tighter, but it is what it is, he said. It will be fun. Im looking forward to it. In addition to his two drives, Girouard will send out Collusion Illusion in race three, a conditioned pace for fillies and mares. Matthew Athearn will drive the five-year-old, who starts from post two and is 5-1 on the morning line. Racing begins at 6:20 p.m. (EST) at The Meadowlands. For free a TrackMaster program for the Big M, click here. (USTA; Michael Girouard pictured driving in a 2022 Maine amateur race at First Tracks Cumberland) Do you love horses and want to understand them better? Do you want to learn how to read their body language and the cues they give one another? If so, you might be interested in a free, online course offered by Equine Guelph, the horse owner and caregivers centre at the University of Guelph. This offering of the popular Horse Behaviour and Safety course is designed for youth aged 13 to 17 who have an interest in horses and want to learn more about their behaviour and communication. The course will run for free until March 31, 2024 and will cover topics such as: Horse behaviour wild vs. stabled How horses see and hear Herd behaviour how horses interact with each other Horse handling basic safety around horses Rider/helmet safety Safe trailering basics Fire safety Safety sround the barn and paddocks Returning from an injury Register for the free youth course before March 31, 2024 at TheHorsePortal.ca. Equine Guelph thanks its generous safety supporters. This free youth initiative has been made possible by ESSO, Kubota Canada, Ontario Equestrian and System Equine. Adults can Learn Together during Family week Family Day is Feb. 19 (in most Canadian provinces). Are you ready for some family fun? From Feb. 12-23, the adult offering of Horse Behaviour & Safety course for those over 18 will also be running. Have an adult family member log in and learn together! Make those future barn visits and even bigger bonding experience as you both learn more about horse language! Both courses are delivered online through the Horse Portal, a user-friendly and flexible learning platform that allows participants to access the course materials anytime and anywhere. No prior online learning experience is required. It is wonderful to see the enthusiasm for this program geared towards the equestrians of the future, said Gayle Ecker, Equine Guelph director. It is a perfect way for youth to fuel their passion and learn more about their favourite animal. The opportunity to share the interest with a family member enhances the whole learning experience. Register for the Feb. 12-23, adult offering of Horse Behaviour & Safety course at TheHorsePortal.ca (With files from Equine Guelph) A South Carolina man is charged with trying to cash checks taken from Iredell County businesses, according to the Iredell County Sheriffs Office. Timothy Scott Pratt, 33, of Chesterfield, South Carolina, is charged with two counts each of felony obtaining property by false pretense and felony forgery, the Iredell County Sheriffs Office said in a news release. In December, the Iredell County Sheriffs Office received a report from a business owner about check fraud. The business owner stated a check was mailed from their business to another location, but at some point, the check was taken from the mail and cashed by an unauthorized person., the sheriffs office said. The sheriffs office said Detective Craig Scannella obtained bank records and video surveillance of a suspect passing the altered check at a check cashing business. While conducting this investigation, Scannella received a second report from another business involving the same suspect, the sheriffs office said. Through video surveillance, Pratt was identified as the suspect, the sheriffs office said. Warrants were obtained for his arrest. The sheriffs office said Pratt was arrested on Feb. 1 while attempting to cash another altered check at a business in Mooresville. Pratt was served with a total of seven outstanding warrants. Four of the warrants are from Iredell County and three are fugitive warrants from other states, the sheriffs office said. Pratt is currently being held under a $350,500 secured bond. Pratt is innocent until proven guilty. Wythe County residents who want to carry a concealed firearm can now apply for and renew permits online. On Jan. 22, the countys circuit court clerk and sheriff unveiled PermitDirector, a web-based service from Permitium that manages the processing, payment and issuance of concealed handgun permits. In a press release, Sheriff Charles Foster said residents can now apply, upload their information and pay in advance for a permit. The application can then be reviewed, and the background check completed, Foster said. My office is always searching for ways to better serve our community; the new software will shorten and simplify the concealed carry application process. Circuit Court Clerk Jeremiah Musser said 18 people have already used the new link: https://wytheva.permitium.com/ccw/start which is also available from Wythe Countys circuit court page. Users can upload photos of their identification and permit requirements and sign everything online. In addition to residents submitting their $50 concealed carry permit fees, they will also pay an additional small fee to Permitium to use the service. Musser said the new system will help residents who dont have the time or ability to visit the courthouse in person. It gives them another option to not have to drive down, he said. According to Musser, the office processed 952 permits in 2023 and has averaged around 1,200 a year since 2020. Permitium has been partnering with law enforcement and government agencies since 2009, according to Sheriff Fosters press release. The company serves more than 42 million citizens across the United States. The resistance's achievements in Gaza are seen as crucial for the broader strategy of the resistance axis, Tahseen Halabi writes in al-Watan. The United States, unparalleled in its history of launching wars and massacres, except by Israel, has initiated 108 wars since 1800, including over ten significant conflicts in the early decades of the third millennium. These include invasions in Afghanistan (2001), Iraq (2003), and across the Middle East from 2011 onwards. Since 2001, Israel, a subordinate extension of the U.S., has waged ten wars in the region, targeting both neighbouring states and the Palestinian populace within the occupied territories. However, unlike the U.S., Israel has struggled to confine the conflict to its borders, despite its expansionist military efforts. Wars and military aggression are fundamental to the operations of Israel, alongside its alliesthe U.S., Britain, and France. The recent conflict in the Gaza Strip has underscored Israels reliance on direct support from its founding nations, as evidenced by Washingtons deployment of aircraft carriers, troops, and munitions to assist in a battle over a mere 350 square kilometres against civilians and their resistance. This assistance highlights Israels failure to suppress resistance or fulfill its colonial mandates independently. Both the U.S. and Israel, rooted in European settler colonialism, share a history of relentless warfare. The European Jews relocated to Palestine by Britain in the 1930s now face a Palestinian majority that has resisted their settlement for 75 years. History shows that colonial powers have typically seen their capacity to maintain colonies diminish, except for American imperialism, which assumed control post-World War II. A report by the Cato Research Center for Strategic Studies questions Americas sustainability in waging perpetual wars, noting its military interventions in the Middle East, some ending in withdrawal under defeat, as in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Lebanon. It highlights the unified resistance front across Gaza, southern Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Iran, and Yemen, opposing Israeli actions and any foreign military intervention, aiming to restore sovereignty and territorial rights. The resistances achievements in Gaza are seen as crucial for the broader strategy of the resistance axis, challenging Israeli and American influence that has hindered regional stability and independence through a century of warfare. Amidst the indirect U.S.-Russia conflict in Ukraine and the looming threats of war with China, the international landscape is shifting towards a decisive phase favouring those opposed to American dominance. Discussions on the potential for global conflict and the erosion of U.S. hegemony have intensified, signalling an urgent need for a balanced global system that ensures justice and liberation from imperialism for all peoples. 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. Explosions have been reported near a US army base in Syria following an attack linked to retaliatory US airstrikes against Iranian-aligned groups and their positions. Meanwhile, the United Nations and human rights organizations have called for increased aid for Syria, one year after a devastating earthquake struck Turkey and the war-torn country, further harming its impoverished population. Simultaneously, Ukraines Military Defense Intelligence (HUR) has reported on its Telegram channel that Russia is recruiting mercenaries from Syria to bolster its military resources for the war in Ukraine. Swarm of suicide drones attacks US army base in Syria in retaliation for Baghdad airstrike Explosions have been reported near a US army base in Syria, by the Hezbollah-affiliated Lebanese media network Al Mayadeen, on Wednesday. The American base in the Al-Omar oil field in the Kurdish-controlled region of northeastern Syria, close to the city of Deir ez-Zor, American troops have been present here since at least 2017. The base was attacked by a swarm of suicide drones according to Egypt-based Bayan-gate news and is the second attack of its kind this week against US bases in the region. The attack has been linked to the retaliatory US airstrikes against Iranian-aligned groups and their positions, by Arab media. The American airstrikes were a response to the three American servicemembers killed at a base in Jordan, near the Syrian border earlier this week. UN calls for more aid to Syria on deadly quake anniversary The United Nations and rights groups have called for increased aid for Syria, one year after a devastating earthquake struck Turkiye and the war-torn country, battering its impoverished population. Billions of dollars in damage aside, the human toll of this disaster is incalculable. Many people remain displaced to date, waiting for solutions and shelter, two senior UN officials said in a joint statement on Tuesday. Syria was already reeling from an economic crisis, but the earthquakes exacerbated the situation further yet, said UN Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator for Syria, Adam Abdelmoula, and Regional Humanitarian Coordinator for the Syria Crisis, Muhannad Hadi. On February 6, 2023, a pre-dawn 7.7-magnitude tremor killed nearly 60,000 people in Turkiye and Syria. According to Damascus, the earthquake killed more than 1,400 people in government-controlled areas of Syria, while more than 4,500 died in areas held by opposition factions in the countrys northwest. Today, a staggering 16.7 million people require humanitarian assistance. This shocking number comes against the background of a bleak funding outlook and conflicts raging across the globe, the UN officials said. This trend must urgently be reversed, they said. Our 2023 Humanitarian Response Plan was just over 36 percent resourced by the years end, they said, pleading for more funds. Russia Recruiting Syrian Mercenaries for Meat Assaults HUR Ukraines Military Defense Intelligence (HUR) has reported on its Telegram channel that Russia is recruiting mercenaries from Syria to bolster its military resources for the war in Ukraine. The recruitment of Syrians for the war indicates a deterioration in the moral and psychological state of the Russian occupation forces due to large-scale losses and the need to replenish them for further meat assaults, HUR reported. Initial training sessions which focus on urban combat operations for the first group of mercenaries, estimated to be around 1,000 strong, are said to be underway in Syria, near the city of Aleppo and the Kuweires airfield. Following the completion of their training, the mercenaries are expected to be transported to Russias Khmeimim airbase in Syria before being transferred to Russian territory. Upon arrival, according to Ukrainian intelligence, Syrian recruits are granted Russian citizenship, provided with Russian passports and subsequently drafted into the Russian armys assault units. Intelligence sources have revealed that Moscow is enticing Syrian men, obviously facing dire circumstances in their own war-torn country, through travel agencies. Initially, they are promised positions as security guards at oil refineries in Yakutia, only to be later enticed with offers of higher-paying jobs in Buryatia. Hezbollah operative killed in alleged Israeli strike said to have helped Iran establish air defense system in Syria Arabic media reports that one of the Hezbollah operatives killed earlier this afternoon in an alleged Israeli drone strike on a car travelling in the southern Lebanese town of Nabatieh was Abbas Al-Debs. The Times of Israel reports that Al-Debs was tied to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and was helping Iran set up air defences in Syria, Arabic media reports. Army Radio reports that Al-Debs was also the commander of the area from which anti-tank fire was launched at the northern Israeli town of Kiryat Shmona. It says the strike was carried out in response to that tank fire striking an IDF base nearby and seriously injuring one of the soldiers there. Under Gazas Shadow, Syria Faces a New Welter of Conflict The analysis published by The New York Times outlines the complex and multifaceted nature of the ongoing conflict in Syria, which the conflict in Gaza has exacerbated. The authors, Paulo Pinheiro, Hanny Megally, and Lynn Welchman, members of the U.N. Syria Commission of Inquiry, highlight the dire situation in Syria, where violence has escalated along multiple fronts, contributing to the worlds largest displacement crisis. This escalation comes despite the worlds attention largely being drawn away by the events in Gaza. According to the op-ed, Syrias war has intensified along five main fronts. This includes clashes between Syrian government and Russian forces against armed opposition groups in the northwest; increased ISIS attacks across Syria; Turkish assaults on Kurdish-led forces in the northeast; conflicts between Kurdish-led forces and local tribes; and military actions by the United States and Israel against forces linked to Iran. The analysis emphasizes the critical need for a dedicated international effort to contain the fighting in Syria. A diplomatic end to over a decade of bloodshed is deemed imperative, with a suggestion that a lasting truce in Gaza could also help calm the situation in Syria by reducing tensions between involved foreign powers. The humanitarian situation in Syria is described as increasingly intolerable, with nearly 17 million Syrians in need of aid. The report criticizes the use of internationally prohibited weapons, including cluster munitions, and documents war crimes and crimes against humanity, including attacks on civilians, summary executions, and torture. It highlights the urgent need for international legal action to address these violations. The disregard for international human rights and humanitarian law in Syria is part of a broader trend that undermines the international protection system. The analysis calls on member states to urgently address this alarming trend and emphasizes the importance of continued, supported, and expanded efforts to convict perpetrators of war crimes and crimes against humanity. The analysis concludes with a plea for the international community not to lose sight of the Syrian crisis. It advocates for a nationwide cease-fire and stresses the need for courageous diplomacy, generous donations, and determined legal prosecution to bring an end to the conflict and support Syrias recovery. This comprehensive overview highlights the complexity of Syrias conflict, the severe humanitarian crisis it has spawned, and the crucial need for international intervention and accountability to bring about peace and aid to the Syrian people. Moving is torment: Life for amputees after Turkey earthquakes Around 70,000 people in Turkey are believed to have a disability caused by injuries in last years earthquakes, according to a report by Al-Jazeera. The report details the harrowing aftermath of the devastating earthquakes that struck southern Turkey on February 6, 2023, particularly focusing on the challenges faced by amputees. Adile Yetkin and her family, residents of Adiyaman, are among those profoundly affected by the disaster. The earthquakes, with magnitudes of 7.8 and 7.5, resulted in over 50,000 deaths across southern Turkey, with Adiyaman alone recording more than 8,000 fatalities and around 17,500 injuries. The United Nations estimates that up to 70% of the approximately 100,000 people injured may now live with disabilities as a consequence of their injuries. Adiles story is a poignant illustration of the new difficulties earthquake survivors must navigate. She and her husband both lost a leg, and their eldest son was killed. They now live in a two-room prefabricated container, grappling with the physical and psychological scars left by the earthquake. The article highlights the inadequate support and resources available to those with disabilities, including the challenges of accessing basic services and the dire need for suitable housing and medical care. Despite receiving prosthetic limbs, Adile and her husband face significant obstacles, including malfunctioning prosthetics and the physical pain of adapting to them. The Yetkins, like many others, rely on the assistance of relatives, friends, and non-governmental organizations for their daily needs and medical expenses, underscoring the vast shortfall in official support. Furthermore, the article underscores the extensive destruction of Adiyamans infrastructure and the additional barriers it creates for people with disabilities. Despite the governments promises of aid and housing, progress is slow, leaving many survivors in precarious living conditions and uncertain futures. The psychological impact of the earthquakes, compounded by loss and disability, is another critical issue that the article addresses, emphasizing the widespread need for psychological support in the community. Overall, the article sheds light on the ongoing struggles of earthquake survivors in Turkey, particularly those who have become amputees. It calls attention to the need for comprehensive support and rehabilitation services, improved infrastructure and housing, and the importance of addressing the mental health crisis following such a catastrophic event. Why Turkeys Syria Policy May Be About to Change A report published by the Carnegie Institute discusses Turkeys potential shift in its policy towards Syria amid evolving regional dynamics and domestic electoral considerations. According to the report, with municipal elections approaching on March 31, President Recep Tayyip Erdogans government has heightened its security rhetoric, particularly concerning threats from the Turkish-Syrian border. Historically, Turkey has engaged in military incursions into Syrian territory to counter the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), a group Turkey considers a terrorist organization and seeks to neutralize due to its presence near the Turkish border. Turkey has conducted military operations in northern Syria and Iraq, targeting PKK and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) positions, the latter led by the Peoples Protection Units (YPG), which Ankara views as an extension of the PKK. Recent Turkish military actions have expanded deeper into Syrian territory, targeting not just military objectives but also civilian infrastructure to undercut the PKKs funding sources. Turkeys aggressive posture risks confrontation with other key players in Syria, including Russia, Iran, and the United States. Despite past vetoes from Moscow and Washington against a Turkish ground incursion, Erdogan has signaled readiness to proceed with new military steps. However, the geopolitical landscape, including Turkeys evolving relations with Russia and Iran and speculation about a U.S. troop withdrawal from northeastern Syria, could influence Ankaras actions in Syria. The article says that the upcoming elections also play a significant role in Turkeys Syria policy. Military operations against the PKK have traditionally rallied nationalist support for Erdogans government. Yet, there are signs of a possible strategic shift towards engaging with the Kurdish electorate in Turkey, highlighted by recent concessions to Kurdish political figures and discussions about restarting peace processes. The fielding of a mayoral candidate in Istanbul by the main Kurdish opposition party, DEM, could further impact the governments approach to Kurdish issues domestically and in Syria. Despite potential changes in tactics, Turkeys fundamental goals regarding Syria remain consistent: establishing a PKK-free buffer zone along the border and facilitating the return of Syrian refugees currently in Turkey. How Ankara adjusts its strategies to achieve these objectives amidst domestic and international pressures remains a critical question. In summary, Turkeys policy towards Syria is at a potential turning point due to a complex interplay of regional security dynamics, international relations, and domestic political calculations, particularly in the upcoming elections. Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian is scheduled to visit the capital Damascus next week, Athr Press says. According to reports from press sources, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian is scheduled to visit the capital Damascus next week as part of a tour that will also include stops in Syria and Lebanon. The Syrian newspaper Al-Watan has stated that Amir Abdollahian will arrive in Damascus early next week for a visit during which he will hold meetings with senior Syrian officials. Discussions are expected to primarily focus on regional developments and recent Israeli attacks on Syria, according to sources cited by Al-Watan. Additionally, the Lebanese newspaper Al-Akhbar has reported that Amir Abdollahian is set to visit the Lebanese capital Beirut next week as well. This trip by Amir Abdollahian to Syria and Lebanon occurs amidst several significant regional developments, particularly in Syria, and coincides with the fifth trip to the Middle East by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Its noteworthy that the Iranian foreign ministers last visit to Syria took place in October, during which he held discussions with President Bashar al-Assad concerning developments in Palestine. 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. "If these attacks persist, our forces will respond with the utmost vigour," Saleh Muslim said, according to al-Souria Net. Saleh Muslim, co-chair of the Democratic Union Party (PYD), has issued a warning regarding the ongoing attacks perpetrated by Iranian militias against the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in eastern Syria. In an interview with Al-Monitor on Wednesday, Muslim emphasized that Syrian Kurdish forces will retaliate against any further aggression from Iranian-backed Shiite militias. If these attacks persist, our forces will respond with the utmost vigour, he asserted. Musallam pointed out that the primary objective of the Iranian militias is to undermine the partnership between the SDF and the United States. Last Monday, six members of the SDF were killed in shelling conducted by pro-Iranian militias at the al-Omar field base in the Deir-ez-Zor governorate countryside. The SDF issued an official statement, attributing the attack to a suicide plane originating from areas controlled by the Syrian regimes mercenaries. While we unequivocally denounce this act of terrorism, we affirm our right to mount a fitting military counteraction against the perpetrators, the statement declared. Although such shelling incidents are not unprecedented, this marks the first time that SDF members have been killed by pro-Iranian militias. This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author. The Syrian Interim Government engaged in discussions with a diplomatic delegation from the U.S. State Department. The Syrian Interim Government engaged in discussions with a diplomatic delegation from the U.S. State Department, addressing various aspects concerning Syria, spanning humanitarian, economic, and political concerns. This dialogue unfolded during a meeting between Prime Minister Abdul Rahman Mustafa of the Interim Government and Nicholas Granger, the Regional Director overseeing the Syrian issue at the U.S. State Department. The meeting took place at the government representation office in the Turkish city of Gaziantep. What did the two sides discuss? The head of the interim government conveyed in a tweet on the X platform that the dialogue centred on fostering joint relations and cooperation between the government and the United States of America across all spheres. Mustafa emphasized, We discussed the aftermath of the sixth of February earthquake, which caused extensive damage to infrastructure and housing, resulting in numerous casualties, injuries, and disabilities, as well as the displacement of thousands who are now residing in camps lacking many essential necessities of life. We also addressed its profound impact on vulnerable segments of society, including women and children. The discussions encompassed the early recovery program, emphasizing the imperative for all liberated areas to partake in its benefits and the urgency to commence reconstruction efforts to address the devastation inflicted on homes and vital infrastructure by the earthquake. Mustafa further elaborated, The delegation provided insights into the progress made in enhancing governance processes and bolstering the economy in liberated regions through the implementation of economic strategies tailored to regional conditions. Additionally, the two parties deliberated on the inaugural investment conference held in the city of al-Rai weeks prior, along with the measures and actions undertaken by the national army to uphold international humanitarian law and human rights principles, including measures to prevent the recruitment and utilization of children. 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. A Kelso man formerly employed as a Child Protective Services case worker is facing charges of third-degree child molestation and communication with a minor for immoral purposes after he allegedly sexually abused a child under his care. Martin Daniel Perez, 36, made a video first appearance Feb. 1 on a summons in Clark County Superior Court. Judge John Fairgrieve granted Perez, who was out of custody, supervised release but ordered he appear in person by Feb. 9 to be booked and released. He is set to be arraigned Wednesday, court records show. Washington Department of Children, Youth and Families communications administrator Nancy Gutierrez said Friday that Perez started as a caseworker in November 2015. He resigned May 17, 2021. However, he was under investigation during this time related to a criminal case in Cowlitz County and placed on home assignment starting March 25, 2021, through his resignation, Gutierrez said. Court records show Perez appeared in Cowlitz County Superior Court on suspicion of first-degree child molestation in March 2021, but the case was dismissed a year later. The Clark County victim, now 20, disclosed to a CPS worker she was sexually abused by Perez while in foster care in Yacolt, according to an affidavit of probable cause. Charging information lists the incidents happening between 2016 and 2021. Perez was the assigned case worker for the victim when she was 13 or 14 years old. He created a social media account to send her photos and said he wanted to marry her when she turned 18, according to court documents. CPS records show Perez drove from Kelso to Yacolt for safety visits with the victim, then drove her to Battle Ground to get coffee. A CPS administrator advised driving such a long distance is abnormal. The victim reported the last time Perez drove her to get coffee, he sexually abused her on the way home, the affidavit states. The victim was on the run from age 15 to 18 due to the situation with Perez, according to court documents. He continued to contact her through Instagram and exposed himself in pictures and a video chat, court records say. In the 2021 Cowlitz County case, Perez was accused of molesting an 11-year-old between August 2018 and June 2019. It was unclear if the connection between Perez and the 11-year-old was related to his work for the state agency, according to The Longview Daily News. The charges were later dismissed due to issues in proof. CPS urges anyone who suspects child abuse related to the Clark County case to report it to law enforcement or its statewide end harm line at 866-262-4276. The state is purchasing a site in Kalama it currently leases to replace permanent wildfire services housed about 45 minutes east at a recently closed facility in Yacolt. Washington Department of Natural Resources announced this week the department plans to purchase a site 5 miles east of Kalama from the citys fire department for $355,000. The state currently leases the Kalama site, which includes a building, from the local fire department Cowlitz Fire District Number 5, said Department of Natural Resources Communications Manager Courtney James. For decades, the Department of Natural Resources trained inmates at the Larch Corrections Center in Yacolt to fight wildfires, but the center closed in October due to issues ranging from millions of dollars in much-needed repairs, being remotely located, and not having adequate programs such as mental and medical health, according to a Department of Corrections news release. A Department of Natural Resources press release says the Kalama space will house the agencys offices as well as five fire engines in the winter, and provide more access to nearby department properties. In 2023, the Board of Natural Resources approved the acquisition of 264 acres in Southwestern Washington, including a 40-acre plot in Woodland. Money to purchase the Kalama site came from a wildfire response bill in the 2021-22 Washington state legislative session, according to the press release. Having DNRs presence and support for wildfire operations and prevention in this area has been of great value to our district and Southwest Washington, said Cowlitz Fire District Number 5 Fire Chief Sammy Brown in a statement. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: ESAs very latest laboratory extension is portable in nature: hosted within a standard shipping container, this ESA Transportable Optical Ground Station, ETOGS, can be transported all across Europe as needed, to perform laser-based optical communications with satellites as well as telescopic observations and laser ranging. ETOGS consists of a standard 6-m (20 ft) long shipping container, customised to host an 80-cm diameter telescope on a lifting platform and a climate-controlled operator area. Laser transmitters, receivers and other required equipment can be attached to this flexible structure to serve each specific campaign. Hauled by lorry, the station can be deployed wherever needed and powered via a mains attachment, diesel generator or a solar-powered battery assembly. Credit: ESA-SJM Photography ESA's very latest laboratory extension is portable in nature: Hosted within a standard shipping container, this ESA Transportable Optical Ground Station, ETOGS, can be transported all across Europe as needed, to perform laser-based optical communications with satellitesincluding NASA's Psyche mission, millions of kilometers away in space. Formally part of the Agency's Optics and Optoelectronics Laboratory, the station will serve as a flexible testbed for optical telecommunications hardware and systems. ETOGS can also support other activities that require looking at the sky with a telescope or pointing skyward with a laser, such as space debris monitoring or orbit determination via laser ranging. ETOGS consists of a standard 6-m (20 ft) long shipping container, customized to host an 80-cm diameter telescope on a lifting platform and a climate-controlled operator area. Laser transmitters, receivers and other required equipment can be attached to this flexible structure to serve each specific campaign. Hauled by lorry, the station can be deployed wherever needed and powered via a mains attachment, diesel generator or a solar-powered battery assembly. Responding to optical communications priorities ESA optoelectronics Engineer Jorge Piris explains, "This station has really been created in response to the needs of the fast-developing optical communications community for a flexible testbed than can be deployed on a representative on-ground environment. One of the most relevant questions in optical communications is to what extent might the surrounding environment affect the quality of the linksuch as background light in urban areas, or atmospheric turbulence due to weather. "This is most crucial when it comes to receiving signals from quantum communications systems, since the quantity of light involved is extremely low, with the information transmitted via individual photons. With this station we can really start to answer these questions by operating from numerous different locations. By providing our partners with a ready test platform like this, we support hardware validation and iteration without the high development costs of a dedicated ground station." Light-based messaging enables quantum leap in security Optical and quantum technologies promise to revolutionize connectivity on a global scale. By using pulses of light with a much higher frequency than radio waves, optical communication enables the transfer of more data per given instant. Optical communications through fiber optic cables underpins the modern terrestrial internet infrastructure, but links with satellites remain largely dependent on lower-frequency, lower-bandwidth radio waves. And by exploiting the quantum properties of light, systems such as "quantum key distribution" will help safeguard data at to a previously inconceivable degree; the security of the exchange of cryptographic keys is safeguarded by the physical properties of light particles, making messaging resilient to eavesdropping by bad actors. Jorge adds, "The station's 80-cm telescope is the baseline size envisioned for quantum key distribution on a commercial scale, so we anticipate the station being used for the demonstration and validation of satellite-based quantum communications." Shining a light into deep space The first operational mission for this new ESA asset will be to support the deep space optical communication demonstration with NASA's Psyche mission scheduled for 2025. ESA is collaborating with a European consortium and the National Observatory of Athens to develop and deploy ETOGS at Kryoneri Observatory in Greece to host a multi-beam Ground Laser Transmitter. The objective is to uplink a powerful infrared laser signal of up to 7 kW, enabling the onboard laser terminal of NASA's Psyche spacecraft to point back to Earth in turn. This link will cover unprecedented distances of up to 2.7 astronomical unitscirca 403 million kmto mark a new era for optical communications in deep space. ETOG's container has been built by WtW in Germany, with its telescope coming from Astrosysteme Austria. The remaining elements to complete an operational system will come largely from project and activity deliverables. Jorge notes, "One of the exciting parts of this project is putting together the various deliverables from different projects into a single set-up, then demonstrating their synergy to work as a system." For now, ETOGS is being equipped at ESA's ESTEC technical center in the Netherlands. The OOEL Lab team will use its telescope to acquire images of the International Space Station and other satellites, to validate the station has the required stability and tracking capability. Later this year ETOGS, with the deep space laser transmitter mounted on it, will be tested from Kryoneri in Greece using ESA's Alphasat satellite in geostationary orbit at 36,000 km altitude, which is equipped with an optical communications system. Once operational, the station will operate as part of the OOEL Lab, so will be at the disposal of ESA projects as well as companies and research institutions of Agency Member States. The station has been developed and is being run by ESA's Opto-Electronics section, which is dedicated to systems that utilize or control light. This section is part of the Agency's Directorate of Technology, Engineering and Quality, tasked with preparing the advanced technologies and providing the engineering support to make future missions and projects possible. 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 Finnish airline Finnair this week instituted a new voluntary policy whereby it is now weighing passengers in addition to their luggage. The airline said the change is meant to tune aircraft balance by offering more precise estimates of cargo weight prior to lift-off. Why is Finnair asking customers to step on the scale? Many airlines use industry averages in their own load estimations. But the Finnish airline has its own weighing program and updates its passenger averages every couple of years or so, according to CNN. Mohammad E. Taslim, professor of mechanical and industrial engineering at Northeastern, says determining an aircraft's estimated weight is most critical prior to takeoff "when the plane's total weight is maximum." "[The] weight then gradually decreases as the plane flies towards its destination because of the continuous use of the fuel," Taslim says. He says airline dispatchers can calculate the weight of an aircraft using a fairly straightforward formula: you take the weight of the plane itself, then add its payload, which includes the aircraft's fuel, passengers, baggage, and cargo. Any meals or liquids on board are part of the overall calculus. So, too, is the distribution of all of the above within the plane itself. On commercial flights, it's not uncommon for flight crew to ask passengers at the front or the rear of an aircraft to move seats. That's because airlines balance their weight around a center of gravity, much like how a seesaw functions. Taslim suggests that some airlines have the capacity to determine their aircrafts' weights with some degree of exactness. "Planes do have an electronic scale that weighs them before takeoff, but I suppose by adding up the passengers' and luggage weights, airlines get a more accurate measure of the total weight," he says. "I have heard of cases where part of the cargo was unloaded to be flown later." The weight and balance of an airplane are critical to passenger safety, but more fundamentally, those calculations are how it is able to defy gravity to begin with. "The total weight of the plane is an important piece of information because it must be less than the lift force created by the wings when it is flying," Taslim says. "The lift force for each plane design flying at a given altitude is accurately known," he adds. "Therefore, airlines must be careful not to exceed the total allowable weight." Finnair isn't the only airline with its own weighing program. Korean Air asked its passengers to step on the scale last year; ditto Air New Zealand. Finnair officials said the weigh-in program has been well-recieved by its customers. "Our customers have taken it really positively so far," an airline spokesperson said this week. "We've been quite surprised by people wanting to take part." By Thursday, apparently 800 passengers had consented to be weighed by the airline. Taslim adds that he doesn't view the new policy as unreasonable "given that it increases passenger safety." This story is republished courtesy of Northeastern Global News news.northeastern.edu. 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: Sam Altman has reportedly held talks with potential investors including the UAE government. OpenAI chief Sam Altman is seeking to raise trillions of dollars to reshape the global semiconductor industry, and has held talks with potential investors including the UAE government, the Wall Street Journal reported Thursday. Altman is reportedly looking to resolve some of the biggest challenges faced by the rapidly-expanding artificial intelligence sectorincluding a shortage of the expensive computer chips needed to power large-language models like OpenAI's ChatGPT. The global chip industry is currently dominated by just a few firms, including Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) and US-based NVIDIA. While many countries have unveiled plans to support domestic chip production, the financial support they have offered pales in comparison with the vast sums of money Altman has reportedly been discussing with investors. The Journal estimated that the total cost of realizing Altman's project could be as much as $7 trillion. This is roughly a trillion dollars more than the market value of the world's two largest public companiesApple and Microsoftcombined. An OpenAI spokesperson told the Journal the company has held "productive discussions about increasing global infrastructure and supply chains for chips, energy and data centers." They added that they would "continue to keep the US government informed given the importance to national priorities." Altman has held meetings with senior government officials from the United Arab Emirates, as well as SoftBank's chief executive Masayoshi Son and representatives from TSMC, according to the Journal. Both Bloomberg and the Financial Times have also reported on some of Altman's meetings in recent weeks. Altman has floated the idea of building dozens of chip-fabrication plants in the next few years with money from Middle East investors, and then paying TSMC to build and operate them, the Journal said. After rising to prominence following the widely-publicized release of ChatGPT, Altman's fortunes have wavered in recent months. He was briefly fired from his position at the AI firm in November, only to be rehired a few days later after staff and investors rebelled. 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: Neil Cocksedge owns one of a growing number of electric-powered narrowboats. Motoring down the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal in England's West Midlands, Neil Cocksedge's narrowboat at first sight looks like most other vessels plying the country's famous network of scenic inland waterways. But one feature, in particular, gives away that this is no ordinary narrowboat: its stealthy near-silence. "The thing people notice about the electric boat is it's so much quieterwe sneak up on fishermen!" Cocksedge told AFP proudly as he piloted it on a recent morning. Named "Eau de Folles"after a now-shuttered Toulouse restaurant where he proposed to his wife decades agothe 20-month-old vessel is among a small but growing number propelled to varying degrees by electricity. Batteries powering the engine and on-board appliancesincluding an oven, fridge and kettleare recharged by solar panels on the roof, canalside charging points or a fuel-fed generator. It can manage a day's cruising on primarily solar-generated power and, overall, uses a quarter of the diesel that traditional narrowboats guzzle, according to Cocksedge. The 70-year-old retired steel industry executive is among those pioneering a switch to environmentally-friendly narrowboats, after more than a century of diesel-powered boats on Britain's pleasure cruising-dominated canals. The slow shift is being driven by increasingly eco-conscious owners, financial incentives, increased exposure of canal lifestyles onlineand the added bonus of less noisy engines. "We wanted to try and be as green as possible and also we like the quietness," explained Cocksedge, who bought the bespoke boat in May 2022 for leisure trips during warmer months. "There's very few electric narrowboats around at the moment. They are gaining popularity though," he added. The vessel has a diesel generator as well as solar panels but uses much less fuel than a traditional narrowboat. Environmental incentives Britain experienced its canal-building boom in the late 1700s when they were used to haul cargo, spurring the industrial revolution. But over the next century, they were largely supplanted by railways. England and Wales still boast around 2,000 miles (3,219 kilometers) of navigable canals and linked rivers, with the West Midlands the epicenter. Birmingham, its biggest city, proclaims to have more miles of canals than Venice. Much of the network is often just seven feet (2.1 meters) wide, giving rise to Britain's so-called narrowboats. Crossing idyllic countryside as well as urban areas, they have enjoyed a resurgence in recent decades as a place to live as well as for leisure. But as the UK bids to decarbonize its transport and other sectors, attention has turned to the vast majority of narrowboats belching out diesel fumes. "Because they last for so long... they tend to put out quite a lot of smutty smoke," said Cocksedge, noting the vessels typically host "old agricultural-type engines that have been marinized", converted for use in boats. The government wants all maritime vessels to show from next year how they could be altered to meet the country's 2050 zero emissions target. The electric motor of a hybrid narrowboat made in the workshop of manufacturer Ortomarine. The Canal & River Trust (CRT), a charity which cares for the inland waterways, is encouraging uptake of electric-powered narrowboats. It offers "greener" boat owners 25 percent discounts on mandatory annual licenses, and is also partnering in pilot schemes to install charging points at inner-city moorings. It currently licenses around 35,000 boats in England and Wales, but only around one percent claim the discount, underlining what it calls the "massive undertaking" ahead. Vlogging impact "Less polluting solutions need to be found for boating power generation, heating and propulsion," a CRT spokeswoman said, noting more charging points in particular were needed across the canal network. "The government and marine industry, as well as local councils and waterside developments and businesses, will have to play their part too." Ortomarine, the narrowboat-maker behind "Eau de Folles", is one such partner. Founded in 2015, it decided three years ago to focus exclusively on electric-propelled narrowboats. "We could see a real niche in the market," explained financial director Caroline Badger from the firm's small workshop on a former military site southwest of Birmingham. Ortomarine has a full order book for its narrowboats until 2027. Its boats typically cost at least 150,000 ($190,000), around 25,000 more than many new diesel-powered vesselsbut then offering significantly lower running costs. Badger noted narrowboats are "ideal" for electric propulsion because they have ample space for solar panels and bulky batteries, which can replace ballast, while they travel at consistent low speeds. Ortomarine, which turns out up to six made-to-order boats a year, has a full order book until 2027. "We could basically sell as many electric boats as we can build," Badger said, as staff worked busily on the latest vessel. She noted video bloggers posting footage of the country's distinctive canal culture had boosted interest, especially post-pandemic. "It's getting a worldwide audience... so it's a big promotional thing," she said, noting customers hail from Australia, South Africa and north America. "Nowhere has the extent of canals that the UK has... going through some of the most beautiful countryside." 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: Computer scientist Craig Wright says he is "Satoshi Nakamoto", the pseudonym of bitcoin's creator. An Australian man went on trial in London this week over his claims of inventing bitcoinnot the first time someone has been linked to being the cryptocurrency's enigmatic creator. Computer scientist Craig Wright, 53, says he is "Satoshi Nakamoto", the pseudonym of bitcoin's creator and author of a white paper that introduced the cryptocurrency to the world in 2008. He is being sued by cryptocurrency activists who say he's lied and forged documents in his attempts to pretend he is bitcoin's founder. Bitcoin saw its popularity skyrocket to become the largest cryptocurrency, and now has a market capitalization of $880 billion according to specialist website Coingecko. However, after collaborating with fellow developers to finesse the code, the mysterious Satoshi disappeared from the radar in about 2011. Multiple theories have since emerged regarding his identity. Hal Finney American developer and cryptographer Hal Finney was the first person to receive the virtual unit, when Satoshi himself sent him ten bitcoins as a test. However, in October 2023, the theory that Finney was in fact Satoshi was discredited by a high-profile blogger in the crypto community. The amateur sleuth said he unearthed evidence suggesting that Finney, who died in 2014, was taking part in a running race at a time when Satoshi had been answering emails and carrying out bitcoin transactions, thereby ruling him out. Dorian Nakamoto Japanese-American engineer Dorian Nakamoto was among the first to be suspected of shaking up the world of currency, following a report in 2014 by Newsweek magazine that he was behind the digital token. "I am no longer involved in that and I cannot discuss it. It's been turned over to other people. They are in charge of it now. I no longer have any connection," he was quoted by as saying by Newsweek. He has since denied being Satoshi Nakamoto. Back in 2012, bitcoin's shadowy creator had claimed to be a 37-year-old man living in Japan, according to a profile posted online. Yet critics cast doubt on this hypothesis, citing Satoshi Nakamoto's excellent English and typically British turns of phrase. Nick Szabo Szabo, a US computer scientist of Hungarian origin, was among the early adopters of decentralized cryptocurrencies and was named by a blogger in 2013 as a possible candidate to have created bitcoin. However, industry insiders argue that there is no tangible proof that he is Satoshi, beyond circumstantial evidence. Craig Wright Wright has been on trial this week at London's High Court, with proceedings expected to last until mid-March. The enigmatic Australian programmer describes himself on X as "Creator of Bitcoin" and insists he has the required skills and knowledge to have invented it. Crypto Open Patent Alliance (COPA), a non-profit organization set up to keep cryptocurrency technology free from patents, is suing Wright over his claims first made in 2016. COPA accuses Wright, nicknamed 'Faketoshi' by detractors, of lying about his identity and of forging and manipulating documents. Wright has been involved in a number of lawsuits brought by himself, but this time around is being asked to defend himself. Elon Musk The richest man in the world has also been in the frame, after a former intern at his SpaceX company wrote a series of articles speculating that Satoshi was in fact Musk. The ex-intern, writing on Medium website, claimed the billionaire uses similar language and expressions to those given by Satoshi, adding that a close colleague of Musk seemed too embarrassed to discuss it. However, tech-savvy Musk rejected the allegations in late 2017 in the face of such meager evidence. Uncertainty prevails Despite feverish speculation, uncertainty reigns supreme. Some commentators argue that a work of such scope and complexity as bitcoin could only be the work of a group of people, rather than a single developer. Others say that it is highly likely the real Satoshi Nakamoto is either deador wishes to preserve the integrity of bitcoin's collective ethos by maintaining his own anonymity. Satoshi Nakamoto meanwhile still possesses about 980,000 bitcoins, according to industry researcher Sergio Lerner. If the bitcoin king is alive, and decides to cash in, that could potentially crash the cryptocurrency because they are together worth about $44 billion at current prices. 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: A partially-collapsed building in the aftermath of the TurkeySyria earthquakes in 2023. Credit: EEFIT. CC BY A new, independent field investigation into the aftermath of the TurkeySyria earthquakes has found that a drive for profit has pushed all players within the construction industry to take shortcuts, with building stock primarily made of Reinforced Concrete (RC) structures, being the main cause of the casualties. Findings show that deficiencies were also recorded among even the newest building stock. This is despite established technical know-how, state-of-the-art building codes and rigorous building regulations. The longitudinal study report published Feb. 6 by the Institution of Structural Engineers for EEFIT, was co-led by Cambridge's Professor Emily So, Professor of Architectural Engineering and Director of the Cambridge University Center for Risk in the Built Environment (CURBE) and Dr. Yasemin Didem Aktas from the Faculty of Engineering Sciences at UCL. The report found that the drive for profit pushes players within the construction industry to take shortcuts. It was recommended that the auditing and quality control mechanisms embedded in the legal and bureaucratic processes should be strengthened to ensure code compliance. The authors assert that the legalization of non-compliant buildings through amnesties cannot continue. Critically, despite established technical know-how, state-of-the-art building codes and rigorous building regulations, deficiencies in Reinforced Concrete (RC) structures were found even in the newest building stock. This demonstrates that seismic resilience is not only a technical problem in Turkey, but one that demands a multi-sectoral and interdisciplinary dialogue, scrutinizing the regulatory system, bureaucracy, the legal and political backdrop within which the construction sector operates in Turkey. Building stock is primarily composed of Reinforced Concrete structures, which were therefore the main cause of the casualties. The team saw problems with such structures across their whole lifecycle from design to implementation and post-occupancy stages. The structures therefore did not withstand the seismic pressures. A review of building stock and infrastructure is critical to understand risk levels for future earthquakes. Lack of publicly available data is a big problem in Turkey, hindering not only a robust inquiry into damage and associated building characteristics, but also reliably establishing the risk profiles for future events. Debris management and demolishment practices have not fully recognized the potential of mid-/long-term environmental and public health implications. Field observations and contacts in the affected communities show that they are already affected by the poor air quality. The Compulsory Earthquake Insurance (CEI) is a system that was put in place in Turkey following the 1999 earthquakes to provide monetary reserves to fund the management of future disasters. The extent to which these funds have been used and how resources have been allocated remain unclear. Professor So says, "The 2023 Turkiye and Syria earthquakes were truly tragic, hitting an already fragile population, including migrants. Our field work and remote analysis revealed many issues, including the issue of non-compliant buildings with little seismic resilience. Building code compliance needs to be strengthened." More information: EEFIT Mission report: Turkey earthquake sequence February 2023. www.istructe.org/resources/rep hquake-sequence-feb/ Three of Texas A&M Universitys online programs were ranked in U.S. News & World Reports top-10 annual Best Online Programs. Nine total programs were ranked in the top 20. A&Ms overall masters for veterans in the School of Education and Human Development was No. 3 nationally. A&Ms overall bachelors in the School of Nursing ranked seventh nationally, while the masters in curriculum and instruction was ranked eighth. All three programs were ranked first in Texas. A&Ms masters in educational administration and supervision, along with the masters in engineering management and masters in industrial engineering were all ranked 11th in the nation. A&Ms masters in industrial engineering and overall masters in the School of Education and Human Development were both ranked 12th nationally. A&Ms overall masters in the College of Engineering and masters in business (excluding MBA) came in 14th. A&Ms masters for veterans in the Mays Business School was ranked 15th and the masters in nursing was ranked 20th. "As a land-grant institution, our mission is to bring higher education opportunities to those with the passion and determination to succeed. We want to meet students where they are, and for some, that means earning a degree through an online education," A&M President Mark Welsh said in a statement. "The latest rankings recognize the efforts of faculty and staff responsible for these online programs, as well as our students, some of whom may never step foot on campus until commencement, but they are Aggies nonetheless." U.S. News & World Reports ranking methodologies considered different factors, including: engagement, service and technologies, faculty credentials and training and peer assessment. A firefighters job is to protect their community no matter the circumstance. The crew at the Moneta Volunteer Fire Department is no different, often risking their lives to protect those in need of rescue. So when fellow firefighter Chris Tucker was recently diagnosed with cancer, everyone in the department jumped at the opportunity to help not only a member of the community, but also a brother. The Moneta Volunteer Fire Department is hosting a benefit fundraiser Feb. 17 for Tucker. He has undergone multiple surgeries and is facing extensive medical bills. The department hopes the fundraiser will provide him some financial relief. Chief Jeremiah Calhoun said he first learned of Tuckers cancer diagnosis in December. In the month before Tucker had taken time off from the department due to trouble moving and a mass growing on his arm. After visiting doctors locally, he was sent to the University of Virginia Medical Center where he was diagnosed with metastatic cancer. Masses were found to have formed throughout his body, including his pelvis, throat and even his brain. It hit hard, Calhoun said of receiving the call from Tucker telling him about the diagnosis. The two have been friends for 13 years. For seven years Tucker has been a member of the department, currently serving as its president. After learning of the diagnosis, Calhoun said he quickly held an emergency meeting that same night at the department for members. All were devastated by the news. There wasnt a dry eye in the meeting room that night, Calhoun said. Tucker is also a single father with a 14-year-old daughter. Calhoun said, thankfully, his sister has been helping to keep everything going at home. Work quickly started within the department to help Tucker. Once the news spread, the community has become involved as well. Donnie and Lisa Callahan, the previous owners of Fishers Restaurant gave a hand in organizing. The Feb. 17 fundraiser will be held at the Moneta Volunteer Fire Department starting at 5 p.m. Calhoun said it scheduled to end and 8 p.m. but will continue as long as people are willing to come by the firehouse to donate. Department members and volunteers will be serving a spaghetti and chicken dinner for $10 for everyone who comes by the firehouse. A drive-thru will also be set up for people who want to donate and get a quick meal. You can dine in or take out, Calhoun said. In addition to the $10 per plate, Calhoun is encouraging extra donations from the community to help. He said everything collected will go directly to Tucker to pay for medical bill costs he said are in the hundreds of thousands. Local business have also donated items for a silent auction throughout the evening. Calhoun said prizes range from gift cards to a large barbeque smoker. As for Tuckers current prognosis, Calhoun said he is currently in good spirits as he currently undergoes rehab. He said hes eager to get back to his brothers in the department. The doctors are saying everything is looking good, Calhoun said. OMAHA Veteran Affairs of Nebraska and Western Iowa has been named as a site for the new VA External Provider Scheduling (EPS) system. EPS is an integrated approach and extension of the MISSION Act that will allow veterans to directly schedule health care appointments with non-VA community hospitals across Nebraska. This program will effectively double access to care for thousands of veterans across the state. Veterans will now have the ability to seamlessly schedule with both the VA and local hospitals and clinics, says a news release from the Nebraska Rural Health Association. The year-long effort was led by Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., and her team and involved buy-in and support from all five Nebraska congressional offices. This is significant for our Nebraska veterans, says the Nebraska Rural Health Association. Todays announcement is great news for veterans across Nebraska especially in our rural areas, Fischer said in a statement. It recognizes our states unique position and ongoing leadership in caring for veterans. In the Senate, Ill continue supporting efforts to ensure that every veteran receives the care they have earned. The Nebraska Rural Health Association says it has worked tirelessly with Sen. Fischer to support our rural veterans and support our local health care teams. Our selection as a pilot state is a testament to the leadership of Sen. Fischer and the reputation of our rural healthcare systems, said Jed Hansen, executive director of the Nebraska Rural Health Association. The Federal VA team in Omaha and Grand Island along with Nebraska VA leadership were a big part of bringing this innovative approach to care to Nebraska and speaks volumes to their dedication to health care for our veterans. This was truly a group effort and I look forward to working with the VA and hospital leadership teams across Nebraska to implement this program for our veterans. BLACKVILLE Silvopasture is an ancient farming practice that integrates trees, pastures and livestock, to help farmers increase profits, support livestock production and protect the climate. The Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service is offering a program this spring to teach South Carolina producers about the establishment, management and economics of silvopasture systems on their properties. Silvopasture Systems in the Southeast is a program developed by the Clemson Extension Livestock and Forages, and the Forestry and Wildlife Resources teams, together with forage specialists from Virginia Tech University and the University of Tennessee. It consists of two webinars and a field day. Silvopasture Silvopasture involves growing trees and grazing livestock on the same site. Silvopasture involves growing trees and grazing livestock on the same site, said Janet Steele, Clemson area forestry and wildlife agent. Were holding this program to show South Carolina producers how they can use silvopasture to enhance productivity and protect the climate, as well as diversify income sources. The webinars are free and will be held via Zoom from 1 to 3 p.m. EST on March 7 and March 14. The March 7 webinar will feature presentations from professors and forages specialists John Fike from Virginia Tech University and Bruno Pedreira from the University of Tennessee. Fike will give an Introduction to silvopasture production systems. Pedreiras seminar will focus on Animal health and environmental benefits of the use of silvopasture systems. Scientists work together vs. a top cotton enemy Scientists from Clemson University and Australia are collaborating to create Fusarium-resistant germplasm for use in United States and Australian cotton breeding programs. The March 14 webinar will feature a roundtable discussion led by Liliane Silva, Clemson forages research and extension specialist, and Steele, with agricultural professionals, producers and extension personnel. The discussion will focus on relevant topics and presenters will share experiences and challenges related to silvopasture systems in South Carolina and the Southeastern United States. To register for the webinars, go to http://tinyurl.com/SilvoWeb0324 A field day will be held from 8:30 a.m. to noon on April 11 in Varnville. Exact location will be shared upon registration. Cost to attend the field day is $15. To register for the field day, go to http://tinyurl.com/SilvoField0424. Improving cereal crops: Clemson, global partners focus on climate resiliency This collaboration focuses on developing climate-resilient cereal crops sorghum, millet, wheat and rice funded by a $22 million grant from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Topics to be covered during the field day include an overview of silvopasture, including information about the different types of systems, establishment and management strategies. Field day participants will also learn about the benefits of including a silvopasture system in their operations, such as diversified income and ecosystem services delivery. Other field day topics include establishing a silvopasture system in woodlands by Steele. Silva will address how to establish pastures and manage livestock in a silvopasture system and the microclimate and animal health benefits from using these systems. Alton Smith, field tour host and owner of Smith Forest Management, will talk about challenges and experiences in using a silvopasture system for commercial livestock production. A tour will also be included in field day activities. For more information, contact Janet Steele, jmwatt@clemson.edu. Orangeburg Department of Public Safety A 77-year-old Orangeburg man was found dead in his Whitman Street apartment on Wednesday afternoon. Robert B. Sherman had been dead for approximately four to five weeks, according to what Orangeburg County Deputy Coroner Valencia Golden told officers. Public safety officers were called to the mans apartment around 2:05 p.m. after a neighbor reported she and other residents hadnt seen the man in the past three or four weeks. Officers knocked on the mans door, but no one answered. They then looked into the residence from a rear window and saw Shermans body on the floor. Firefighters arrived and forced entry into the mans home. Shermans death remains under investigation. In an unrelated report, a Holly Hill man is accused of driving a stolen white BMW. Demarcus Hykeem Oshaug Duncan, 24, of 1146 Toney Bay Road, is facing one count of possession of a stolen vehicle. Officers became aware of the vehicle at 2 a.m. Thursday when a BMW loss prevention employee reported tracking it to the American Inn, located at 610 John C. Calhoun Drive. When officers arrived, they saw someone backing the BMW into a parking space there. Officers ordered the driver out of the BMW at gunpoint. The man got out of the BMW with his hands raised, but hadnt placed the gear in park, an incident report said. As officers approached him, he allegedly began to flee and the BMW began to roll backwards. One officer took off after the man while another officer jumped in the BMW and placed the gear in park. The officer caught the man just before he could jump over a brick wall, the report said. A dispatcher radioed that the man had outstanding warrants from the Orangeburg County Sheriffs Office and the S.C. Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services. Officers claim they found multi-colored gummies inside the mans jacket pocket. The gummies will be tested for drugs. The man was loaded into the backseat of a patrol car. As an officer attempted to get a pair of gloves from the trunk of the car, he heard the man choking. When the officer opened the door, she saw the seatbelt wrapped around the mans neck. The officer believes he was trying to harm himself, the report said. Officers got the seatbelt from around the mans neck and took him to the Orangeburg County Detention Center. If convicted, Duncan faces up to 10 years in prison. Orangeburg County Sheriffs Office A 35-year-old Orangeburg man is accused of digging his fingernails into a deputys hand while at the Orangeburg County Courthouse, located at 151 Docket Street. Trenton Jaquan Lightsey, of Belleville Road, faces one count of assaulting a law enforcement officer. The incident began just after 10 a.m. Wednesday. The man entered the courthouse and went through the metal detectors. Courthouse security deputies asked the man where he needed to go, but the man didnt answer. A deputy noted that due to the mans demeanor and for the safety of those in the courthouse, he activated his body-worn camera and intercepted the man, blocking his path down the hall. The deputy told the man that he needed to say where he was going. The man then walked on the other side of the hall to try to go further into the courthouse. The deputy blocked the man again. Another deputy grabbed the man, attempting to gain control over him. Deputies told the man that he just needed to say where he was going. The man allegedly pulled away from deputies and didnt want to show them his hands. At that point, a deputy claims his right hand was grabbed by the man. The man used his fingernails and dug into the bottom of the deputys thumb and hand. Deputies took the man into custody, telling him that he was under arrest for assaulting an officer. Orangeburg County Chief Magistrate Derrick Dash set Lightseys bond at $7,500 cash or surety. Lightsey has since bonded out of jail. If Lightsey is convicted, he faces up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. GOP presidential candidate Nikki Haley is scheduled to make a stop in Orangeburg as part of her two-week "Beast of the Southeast" bus tour before the Republican primary on Feb. 24. The Bamberg native will be making an appearance at The Cinema in Orangeburg at 1225 Orangeburg Mall Circle at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, February 11. Doors open to the public at noon. To attend, RSVP at: nhwin.org/IEdTpp The event is free. Haley is also scheduled to make a stop in her hometown of Bamberg. A time and location of the Bamberg stop had not been released as of Thursday afternoon. Haley is the former South Carolina governor and U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. She graduated from Orangeburg Preparatory Schools. Haley has been trailing in polls to former President Donald Trump by double digits in her home state. Polls show Haley trailing Trump 65 percent to 31 percent in an average of the states polls. Haley and Trump are the only two major candidates remaining in the Republican Party presidential primary. Trump has won the year's earliest nominating contests in Iowa, New Hampshire and Nevada. Haley's bus tour kicks off Saturday. She will make stops in Newberry, Greenwood and Lexington counties. Following Orangeburg, she also has plans to stop in Dorchester County. According to the campaign, visits are also planned for Bamberg, Clemson and Lexington, to mark the places where Haley grew up, attended college and raised her children. The tour is aiming to ramp up interest in South Carolina's early-voting period, which begins Monday, according to Haley's campaign. Trump is planning a get-out-the-vote rally in Conway before more events lined up in the weeks that follow. In his absence, Trump's campaign has traveled the state with some of his high-level endorsers, including U.S. Reps. Nancy Mace, Russell Fry and William Timmons, all of whom have levied criticisms at Haley and, like Trump, called on her to end her 2024 bid. Haley, who served for two years as Trump's ambassador to the United Nations, has escalated her own attacks against her former boss, arguing to audiences at her events that Trump's various legal cases mean that he's been in court, while she's been campaigning. Geoffrey Patton, Resident British Commissioner to SVG, will be giving up his job for one day, March 8, 2024. The British High Commission to St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) in partnership with the DMV-SVG Mutual Aid Relief is giving a Vincentian female between the ages 18 and 25, the opportunity to be the Resident British Commissioner for a day, on International Womens Day, March 8. The British High Commission recently launched the Resident British Commissioner (RBC) for a Day initiative with the aim of providing exposure to Vincentian women desirous of gaining hands-on career experience in the field of diplomatic relations. To be successful, female candidates between the ages of 18 and 25 must submit a two to three-minute video explaining why they want to be the RBC for a day. What are they hoping to achieve as a RBC for a day? How will being a RBC for a day help in your future aspirations? And, recommend one way to address gender-based violence against women? Candidates must also like and follow both the UK in Barbados and Eastern Caribbean and DMV-SVG Mutual Aid Reliefs Facebook pages. Submission of videos must be send to [email protected] by 11:59 p.m. on February 16, 2024, along with the applicants full name and contact information. Resident British Commissioner to SVG, Geoffrey Patton in an interview with THE VINCENTIAN newspaper, said the winner of the competition will do his job, on International Day March 8th. "That is the reason why we are sticking with just female entrants on this occasion. We are hoping that we geta good standard of entry, which I am sure we will. The idea of doing my job for the day, it will give individuals who have an interest in international affairs and perhaps becoming a diplomat themselves further down the road, an opportunity to see what a resident British Commissioner actually does, day to day, and hopefully give them an insight into international and diplomatic relations, said Patton, adding that he is confident that the initiative will be a great success. There is every chance that the initiative will focus on men, in a year times, Commissioner Patton said. Patton noted that among the reasons for the age range from 18 to 25, is the need for the potential winner to be independent minded, void of parental constraints and to attract those persons within the age to complete college. The RBC for a Day initiative is supported by DMV-SVG Mutual Aid Relief, a US-based organisation which seeks to address the needs of Vincentian women, children, and families through their programmes and initiatives. Khalique Brinks Rock, a 27-year-old labourer, was gunned down at about 7:28 p.m. on Wednesday 7th February 2024, outside his home in Green Hill. His death brought the homicide count for the year to four. Reports said are that Rock was hanging out with some friends not far from his home, when he was fired upon several times by two assailants. He ran towards his home, located in an area referred to as Gulley, in an attempt to escape but was cornered by the gunmen. In the milieu, he was shot multiple times about his body and was later pronounced dead by a medical practitioner at the scene. Unconfirmed reports said that another person was injured in the attack. Mother had her concerns "He got shot where a mango tree was and he jump in his yard after he get the first shot and another guy came from behind the house and finished him off in front his front door, said a close friend of the Rock family. The friend said that the Rock family was concerned about Keliques life ever since the shooting death of his close friend, who was shot and killed in Murray Village in 2023. "His mom was worried a long time now; is like she suspected his time was coming and she tried to warn him. Right now she is taking it on a lot, said the friend who did not want to be identified. Rocks mother was at church when her son was killed. She was overcome by grief and had to be comforted by family members as she arrived on the crime scene, which is her residence as well. THE VINCENTIAN was told that Rock also leaves to mourn a young daughter. The deceased was not unknown to the law here. He was arrested and charged in April 2019 with attempted murder following an incident in which a barrage of bullets was opened on a 32-year-old farmer, Kemanie Spencer of Green Hill. Rock was granted EC$30,000 bail in the matter, which is yet to be brought to some closure. Homicide three Rocks death followed the shooting death of Jenson Aubrey Hamilton, a 55-year-old fruit vendor of Gibson Corner. Hamilton was gunned down in his community at about 7:20 p.m. on Saturday 3rd February. "Preliminary information revealed that Hamilton was on his way home from Kingstown when he was accosted by an assailant(s) and shot multiple times about his body. The police were alerted and promptly proceeded to the scene, said a press release by the RSVGPF. Hamilton survived an attempt on his life in January. A police report on January 24 on that matter, noted that Police had launched an investigation into the shooting of a 54-year-old resident of Gibson Corner, in which the victim was shot at about 11:30am, Tuesday 22nd, January 2024, in Gibson Corner. Information then revealed that the victim and the assailant were engaged in an argument when the assailant shot him in the left leg and on the left side of his chest. "One male suspect is in custody, assisting with the investigation, said the police release, concerning Hamiltons shooting in January. Homicide One and Two The first homicide for the year was that of Redemption Sharpes resident Rudolph Pollard, 61. He was found on Tyrell Street, Kingstown, after discharging himself on January 15 from the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, where he was being treated for stab wounds about his abdomen and head. He was found dead two days later. Raheem Da Silva, 24 years old, has since been charged with the murder of Pollard. And on Wednesday January 31, police were called out to the West Kingstown community of Ottley Hall, where they found the body of Keith Engine Head Davis in an unfished house. He was pronounced dead on the scene. A police report said that Davis appeared to have bullet wounds about his body. Daviss death was counted as the second homicide for 2024. Investigations continue into the circumstances surround his death. The participants in the inaugural Youth Symposium hosted by the Stubbs/Diamond Police Youth Clubs. When the Stubbs/Diamond Police Youth Clubs hosted their first Annual Youth Symposium at the Hospitality Management and Tourism Institute (HMTI) in Diamond, on Saturday 3rd February, 2024, some fifty-three (53) members of Police Youth Clubs (PYC) from across mainland St. Vincent were in attendance. Forty (40) of the participants were from the Stubbs/Diamond PYC, while the other thirteen (13) were from the Calliaqua, Mesopotamia, Layou, Richland Park, and Georgetown Youth Clubs. The symposium, held under the theme "Investing in our Youths Today for a Safer Tomorrow, had as its objectives: 1. To provide a safe space where young people can openly share their experiences and build a network with their peers; 2. To provide an avenue where new learning can take place with the aim of contributing to individual positive engagement and ultimately positive behavioral change; 3. To equip young people with tools and skills that will help them navigate challenging situations by making positive decisions. Accordingly, participants were sensitised to issues such as Teenage Sexuality, Savings and Money Management, The Rights of a Child, Achieving Excellence in Academic and Skills-based Studies and Employment, Youths Role in reducing Crime and Violence, and Creating Personal Vision Boards. The days activity commenced with an opening ceremony that heard remarks from Hon. Frederick Stevenson - Parliamentary Representative of South Windward and Minister of the Public Service, Consumer Affairs and Sports; Mrs. Merissa Finch-Burke - Permanent Secretary within the Ministry of National Mobilization, Youth, etc.; Superintendent of Police Mr. Junior Simmons - Officer in charge of Police Youth Clubs; Sergeant of Police, Mr. Stephen Billy - National Coordinator of Police Youth Clubs; Mr. Osborne Bowens - Dean of the Technical College and Ms. Yoland London, one of the Coordinators of the Stubbs/Diamond Police Youth Clubs. The presenters were: Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police - Mr. Trevor Bailey; Ms. Roselle Solomon - Social Worker; Ms. Candace Sealey - Public Relations Officer/SVG Building and Loan Association; Mr. Osborne Bowens and Yoland London. The symposium was supported financially by the St. Vincent Building and Loan Association, National Properties Limited, and Government Employees Cooperative Credit Union (GECCU). Other support came from the Government Printery, His Majestys Prison, The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force, The St. Vincent Community College and the Ministry of National Mobilisation, Youths, etc. According to coordinator London, "The symposium met its expectations and realized its objectives. It was a resounding success and could not have been possible without the support of our sponsors and supporters and for that again we say Thank you. The next event on the clubs agenda will be the launching of their Female-to-Female Mentorship Programme on 8th March 2024, International Womens Day. Senior Magistrate Colin John could well have been suggesting to Vennol Culzac (pictured) that he should learn from the proverb, Once bitten, twice shy. A teenage offender who tasted prison life for a brief period this week, told the Court on Wednesday that it was his worst experience ever. Senior Magistrate Colin John had remanded 18-year-old Vennol Culzac for three days to experience the prison system, after Culzac appeared in Court on Monday on four charges in connection with an incident at the Central Leeward Secondary School, Peters Hope, Barrouallie, during which he brandished a sharp weapon and threatened to stab the schools Deputy Principal, Raffique Durham. Culzac, who was unrepresented, pleaded guilty to the charges, following which Prosecutor Corlene Samuel read the facts. The Court heard from the boys mother and the schools Deputy Principal, after which John remanded the youngster until Wednesday, before making a decision on his fate. "You will go to prison until Wednesday, and when you come back, you will tell me if you like round there (prison), so I can know if to send you back, the Magistrate told the Central Leeward Secondary School Form 2 dropout. At this point, Culzac asked the Kingstown Magistrates Court to allow him to stay at the barracks (Central Police Station) until Wednesday, but the Magistrate replied, "Barracks different. Reprimanded and discharged On Culzacs return to the Kingstown Magistrates Court on Wednesday, the Magistrate asked him, "How was your stay? to which Culzac replied, "It was the worst experience of my life, and I would not like to go back up there its not good. John told the youngster that it was a serious offense to go onto a school compound and disrespect the students and teachers and for that matter, he should never disrespect anyone. "You have been taught a lesson. I hope that you learned a lesson. I hope that you dont come before the Court in the future, at least in the capacity of a defendant, the Magistrate warned. John called the Deputy Principal to the stand and told him that the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC) has issued sentencing guidelines as to how to deal with offenders in Culzacs age group, noting that a prison sentence was to be considered only as a last resort. "He (Culzac) seemed to have learned his lesson, so I will reprimand and discharge him and place him on a bond, so he doesnt come back before the Court in this capacity, the Magistrate said. Culzac was reprimanded and discharged on all the charges. He was also bonded for one year in the sum of $500, or six months in prison. "I hope that you dont come back before the Court again in that capacity, the Magistrate warned Culzac before he left the dock. The incident Culzac was charged with entering the compound of the Central Leeward Secondary School as a trespasser with intent to intimidate; having an offensive weapon, without lawful excuse, to wit, a pair of scissors; assaulting Raffique Durham of Barrouallie with intent to commit an offense, to wit, wounding; and assaulting with intent to commit an offense, to wit, bodily harm. All four offenses were committed at the School on February 2. In presenting the facts, Prosecutor Corlene Samuel told the Court that on February 2, Raffique Durham, the Deputy Principal, was in charge of the school as the Principal Michael Scott was absent. The bell had just rung for lunch break when Durham was en route to the Principals office. While descending a flight of stairs towards the Form 1 section, he met Culzac at the bottom steps, dressed in a black t-shirt and blue jeans. Durham asked him if he was a student of the school and Culzac said no. Durham then asked him to leave the compound but Culzac kept walking along the Form 1 corridor until he reached a dead end. Durham took a photograph of him with his cellular phone, and Culzac asked the Deputy Principal to delete it. He then walked towards Durham, pulled a pair of scissors from his pants back pocket , and threatened to stab the Deputy Principal. Culzac swung the scissors several times at Durham, resulting in Durham having to back away to avoid getting hurt. He also took up a chair and swung it several times at Durham. Durham was able to escape and take refuge inside the Principals office from where he contacted the Barrouallie Police Station and reported the matter. Police officers were dispatched and they were informed that Culzac was at this time outside the school compound. The police approached him and requested a search of his person to which he consented. Nothing illegal was found on him, but he later took the police to an area behind a wooden shed where the pair of scissors was recovered from under some bushes. Durham had told the Court on Monday after the facts were read, that after he went to the Principals office to contact the police, Culzac came towards the office and threatened to deal with him (Durham) in the road. (TBTCO) - San luong nha may va doanh so ban le cua Trung Quoc vuot ky vong trong giai oan tu thang 1 en thang 2/2024, anh dau su khoi au vung chac cho nam 2024 va mang lai mot so cuu tro cho cac nha hoach inh chinh sach, ngay ca khi su yeu kem trong linh vuc bat ong san van la luc can oi voi nen kinh te va niem tin. At least eight people were killed overnight into Friday by two Israeli airstrikes in the city of Rafah. The first struck near Kuwait Hospital, killing at least five people, according to an AP journalist at the hospital, while a second targeted a different part of the city, killing three others. You have reached a premium content area of Transitions. To read this entire article please login if you are already a Transitions subscriber. Not a subscriber? Subscribe today for access to: Full access to the website, including premium articles videos, country reports and searchable archives (containing over 25,000 articles). ENERGY Minister Stuart Young has taken umbrage at comments made by Ronald Harford, former chairman of Republic Financial Holdings Ltd, as he boasted about the success of the energy sector. Young said whenever somebody becomes a former, their mouth gets big, as he quoted from an article in Fridays Express report where Harford made critical comments. 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. Tucson-area optics firm Geost has been supplying sensor systems for U.S. defense and intelligence satellites since its founding by a University of Arizona optics Ph.D. two decades ago. Now, Geost is rapidly expanding its headquarters and lab spaces in Marana to help the nation shift to networks of smaller satellites, with the backing of a private-equity firm that acquired most of the company in 2021. The company, now part of LightRidge Solutions, recently cut the ribbon on an expansion that doubled the production capacity at its main facility on West River Road, near Orange Grove Road, with plans to double that again later this year. Over the past three years, Geost has boosted its employee count by 600% to more than 200 workers now after hiring more than 95 over the past year alone, with plans to add 100 more workers this year. Geost has been around for 20 years, doing pretty much the same thing but expanding in the national security space around providing optical sensors and payloads, said Rich Gray, who was named president and general manager of Geost in 2022 after a 26-year career at General Dynamics in Scottsdale. Geost needs the new hires to handle an influx of new business and continuing contracts. The company specializes in the design and production of electro-optical and infrared sensors and integrated sensor packages, or payloads, that fit onto satellites to detect and track objects and activity in space, as well as ground-based sensors. Tracking missiles Last week, Geost announced a contract from Colorado-based Sierra Space to provide sensor payloads for the U.S. Space Development Agencys Tracking Layer Tranche 2 missile warning and tracking satellites. Geost will provide 16 of its Mercury missile-warning and missile-tracking payloads and two of its Phoenix fire-control payloads for missile defense, including integrated mission processing systems. Last September, Geost announced it is building sensor payloads for eight Northrop Grumman-built missile-warning satellites, along with related ground-based systems, for the SDAs Tranche 1 Tracking Layer satellites projected to launch in 2025, under a $617 million contract awarded to Northrop in 2022. The company says its Starlite resiliency payloads are significantly smaller and more affordable than previous payloads, at about the size of soda can. Geosts resiliency payloads provide warning of threats or potential threats to orbiting assets, enabling them to take defensive or other actions as needed to protect themselves, Gray said. Geost makes sensors for space domain awareness essentially giving satellite operators a picture of what is going on around them, including other satellites, space junk and sources of interference, for example. Founded in 2004 by UA optics Ph.D. Anthony Gleckler, Geost has quietly developed and produced electro-optical sensor systems for the Air Force, and more recently the Space Force, since its inception. Sweet spot in space A majority stake in Geost was acquired in 2021 by the private-equity firm ATL Partners. Geost is now part of LightRidge Solutions, formed by ATL with two other ATL acquisitions in the same sector, Colorado-based laser-radar sensor maker Ophir Corp. and Virginia-based space electronics provider Trident Systems. Gleckler remains a consultant to the company and board member. Gray said the company has found its sweet spot as the Pentagon and U.S. intelligence agencies move away from systems using relatively few, large satellites to networks of much smaller and cheaper satellites. With satellites now relied on for military communications, command and control of air- and ground-based platforms and weapon systems and missile tracking and warning, the Pentagon is seeking to create networks of smaller sats to provide redundancy in the face of emerging space threats. Geosts sensor payloads, which range in size from a soda can to a breadbox, generally cost less that $10 million each, and often much less, Gray said, while providing critical resilience to the U.S. satellite fleet. What weve seen over the past few years is a trend towards more affordable, more proliferated architectures, getting away from having the the big targets, the highly capable, school-bus sized assets, to more disaggregated constellations, he said, where if an adversary were to try to take out some of the capability, there would be plenty of other assets to fill in, which makes it obviously harder for an adversary to gain an advantage. So weve kind of hit a sweet spot in terms of the size, weight and performance of our systems, and the cost, Gray said. Besides space-based sensors, Geost also designs and makes ground-based sensor stations that see into space for applications such as laser-based data transmission, which the company is testing at sites including the UA Tech Park on Tucsons south side. The company develops its own payload software, which uses artificial intelligence and machine learning autonomous technologies to process critical data. The company reached a milestone last year when one of four payloads delivered to an undisclosed customer was sent into orbit and became operational, Gray said. Geost now has three programs moving into operations and maintenance, five programs moving into production and seven programs in the research and development phase, including one commercial project. Growing presence With much work ahead, Gray said the company isnt done expanding its main office and labs, which are tucked away in a retail and office center just east of Interstate 10. The company spent nearly $1 million on the most recent expansion including new three new optical labs and a third clean room, a 1,000-square-foot, Class 7 facility, for contaminant-free assembly and testing. With plenty of space for further expansion in the former furniture store building, Gray said, the company plans to add another clean room and two more production lines by the end of this year or early 2025. The company, which still has an engineering office further east near River Road and La Cholla Boulevard, also is in the process of setting up an office with labs in Northern Virginia to handle operations and maintenance for its on-orbit missions, Gray said. Geost has tapped into talent from the UA and the local optics industry. Many of the companys engineers formerly worked at Raytheon in Tucson, including David Dean, director of integration and production, who joined Geost last year after more than 17 years as an electrical engineer at Raytheon. Raytheon, part of RTX Corp. after a merger with United Technologies in 2021, has made satellite systems for decades, and its Tucson missile operations include labs to make space sensors for ballistic missile interceptors. And Raytheon recently got into the small-sat sensor business with its acquisition of Colorado-based satellite maker Blue Canyon Technologies in 2020 and satellite electronics provider Seakr Engineering in 2021. In February 2023, Raytheon was awarded a $250 million contract to provide seven missile-tracking satellites for the SDAs Tranche 1 Tracking Layer. Reaching capacity During a tour of Geosts expanded facility on West River Road, several windowless optics labs allow engineers to test components using lasers and other equipment. In the companys newest clean room, Dean and company engineers were setting up a robotic arm to make precision measurements of satellite payload components. They also showed off a computer program in final development to track each project at each point of progress in real-time important while the company juggles multiple contracts, Dean said. But an old-fashioned project-tracking whiteboard with color-coded project magnets will stay, to help engineers quickly spot work bottlenecks as soon as they come in for their shifts, he said. When we finish the build out this year, we will be pretty much at capacity and well be able to support all the work that we have, Gray said. Were committed to staying in the Tucson area, and growing in the Tucson area. On a party-line vote, an Arizona Senate Committee approved a bill Wednesday to establish a rural groundwater management setup thats favored by many farming interest groups but opposed by many environmentalists and some rural community leaders. The bill, introduced by Buckeye Republican Sen. Sine Kerr, would establish a complex legal and governmental process to designate groundwater basin management areas with the goal of reducing groundwater depletion while maintaining the areas economy and agricultural base. The Republican-led Senate Natural Resources, Energy and Water Committee voted 4-3 to support the measure. It would allow some mandatory conservation measures while still protecting existing farmers groundwater rights, as certified by the Arizona Department of Water Resources. It would also appropriate $40 million to ADWR to pay for unspecified measures for farmers to achieve better water conservation. An amendment approved unanimously by the committee made a concession to bill opponents, who had sharply criticized the measures original requirement that a groundwater basin be found to have an accelerated water level decline of at least 10 feet a year over 5 years before it could be considered for basin management. That would have ruled out including any of Arizonas groundwater basins from facing state regulation by becoming a basin management area, ADWR records show. Instead, the amendment allows designation of a groundwater basin management area if a water table falls at least 50 feet over 20 years. Using that standard, the Willcox Basin, where numerous wells have dried up due to agricultural over-pumping, would qualify. So would the Gila Bend Basin, which ADWR just started considering as a possible state-run Active Management Area, which has far stricter rules than the groundwater basin areas this bill would create. ADWR-monitored index wells showed average water level declines of 89 feet in the Gila Bend Basin and 73 feet in the Willcox Basin from 2000 through 2020, agency records show. Testifying in support, Arizona Farm Bureau President Stefanie Smallhouse said, For the first time ever, agriculture comes to the table with a solution which is in fact regulatory. It does look different than other previous proposals. It actually takes into consideration the sustainable future of agriculture. This bill has been in process several years and required considerable collaboration of the agricultural community, said Smallhouse, whose family farms in the San Pedro River Valley east of Tucson. If you are going to make a giant shift in managing natural resources, it has to be deliberative, collaborative and create trust. But opponents lashed out at provisions requiring a many-step process for creating such areas. First, 15% of registered voters within a basin would have to petition to create one. Then, the affected countys board of supervisors would have to recommend it and then, voters within the proposed basin would have to approve its creation. Its time to adopt a new rural groundwater management framework that works for everybody, not just the farm bureau but all rural Arizonans, said Travis Lingenfelter, a Mohave County supervisor. The (basin management areas) contained in the bill, not only will it not help rural counties and cities, it will make it worse. Lingenfelter said he was speaking on behalf of Coconino, La Paz and Yavapai counties and several cities within them as well as his own. Theyve formed a coalition to advocate for common sense in a rural groundwater management framework, he said. A competing bill has been introduced in the House by Democrats in the minority party. It would also allow formation of rural groundwater management areas but they would be easier to create and would have more regulatory authority. Under the Democrats bill, the governor would appoint such areas seven-member governing councils. Members would have to be recommended by legislative leaders of both parties and six members would have to live within the groundwater management area. Kerrs bill would have three council members elected by area residents and two chosen by irrigation districts in the area. Tucson Democratic Sen. Priya Sundareshan said the existence of the competing bills shows we all agree that we need a management approach that is locally driven, flexible and allows for conservation and other approaches not currently allowed under AMAs. It sounds like we all agree that AMAs are not necessarily the best approach for rural areas. I know the frustration the people are feeling about the Gila Bend Basin in particular, she said, and the declining wells there show that we need a new approach. What we hopefully are trying to get to, we have different approaches on how that should be done, is how to marry the approach, Sundareshan said. Kerr noted that the GOP bill will be heard next Tuesday by the Senate Appropriations Committee, where it can get more discussion. She said my door is open and Im happy to talk to everyone with suggestions for improving the bill. Sen. Sundareshan and I have a commitment to sit down and put the bills together, she said. Im willing to reach out to everyone at the table. Its more important when we disagree that we come together and have that understanding. Donna Michaels, the Yavapai County supervisors vice chair, said, Im concerned (the bill) will hurt Yavapai County, and thats my home. It has water challenges. "Weve already lost 5 miles of the Verde River," which flows through much of Yavapai County, she testified. The flows since 1990 in the Upper Verde are down 34%, and in the Lower Verde, theyre down 41%." Michaels said provisions in Kerr's bill "are confusing and bureaucratic," adding, "I believe the effects of these steps required, like petitions, elections, multiple unanimous votes and the involvement of the Legislature will hamper the management areas effectiveness. Gila Bend Mayor Tommy Sykes and Councilman Chris Riggs both spoke in favor of Kerrs bill. Kerr traveled to Gila Bend to share the bills contents with local residents, whereas the Gila Bend town manager only found out about the possible designation of the Gila Bend Basin as an AMA after it was posted on the ADWR website, Sykes said. It was insulting that the state failed to reach out to the town of Gila Bend, whereas Sen. Kerr made an effort to inform us. Riggs said, We demand control of our basin. We agree we need to be active keepers of our community basin. But control must remain in hands of our people that have a dog in that fight. We absolutely do not trust the governor. We trust Sen. Kerr. Tucson and Pima County officials apparently are considering settling financially with Louis Taylor over his imprisonment in the 1970 Pioneer Hotel fire case after a judge recently ordered that his discrimination lawsuit go to trial. Referring to Taylors 1972 conviction on 28 murder charges in the Tucson fire, U.S. District Court Judge Rosemary Marquez wrote: A reasonable jury could find that the City of Tucson and Pima County reached an agreement to violate Taylors constitutional rights by suppressing a lab report that found no evidence of arson accelerants in the fire debris, and by procuring false testimony from jailhouse informants. A reasonable jury could also find that the City of Tucsons pattern and practice of racial discrimination and Pima Countys deliberate indifference to criminal defendants constitutional rights were the moving forces behind these constitutional violations, the judge wrote in her Jan. 19 ruling. A settlement conference in federal court is set for Feb. 20-21, court filings show. The Pima County Board of Supervisors and the Tucson City Council discussed the case with legal counsel in closed-door executive sessions at their meetings this week. The City Councils agenda said it would consider its position and instruct its attorneys regarding the pending litigation or settlement discussions. At the same time, Pima County and the city filed a motion to move the case from Tucson to Phoenix, which indicates it could still go to trial rather than be settled. The city and countys motion said the decades-long publicity in this high-profile case has so saturated the Tucson Divisions jury pool with prejudicial and incorrect coverage that Defendants (the local governments) cannot get a fair trial here, and that prospective jurors have been trained for at least the last 10 years to believe that Louis Taylor is innocent and wrongfully convicted at the hands of the Defendants improper conduct. The case so far Marquezs 60-page court order put Taylors lawsuit back on the table after the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in 2019 that a 2013 deal allowing Taylor to go free after decades in prison also prevented him from winning financial compensation for damages. The divided three-judge panel of the 9th Circuit had said it took no pleasure in reaching this unfortunate result. And in a sharp dissent, Judge Mary Schroeder said the courts ruling magnifies an already tragic injustice against Taylor. He was convicted on the basis of little more than (his) proximity and trial evidence that black boys like to set fires, Schroeder wrote. Court records note that an all-white jury convicted Taylor, who is part African-American and part Hispanic. He was 16 when the fire in the downtown hotel killed 29 people. In 2012, Taylors lawyers presented new evidence, including that the fire was not arson, which led to the Tucson Fire Department finding in a new investigation that no cause for the fire could be determined. Pima County prosecutors said they continued to believe Taylor was guilty but offered him the chance to plead no contest to the original charges in return for having his earlier convictions vacated and being sentenced to time served. Taylor, who always maintained he was innocent, agreed to the 2013 deal with then-Pima County Attorney Barbara LaWalls office and entered the plea. He was released that year after serving 42 years in prison. Two years later, in 2015, Taylor sued Pima County and Tucson for violating his rights to due process and a fair trial. However, due to the no-contest plea, the 9th Circuit panel ruled he was prohibited from seeking damages for his prison time. Undermines fairness Marquez disagrees in the new ruling, writing: A reasonable jury could find that, if a new trial had been ordered in Taylors case, the prosecution knew it would have been unable to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt due to new evidence that the Pioneer Hotel fire cannot be classified as arson and due to serious problems concerning the admissibility and credibility of key evidence presented during Taylors 1972 trial. A reasonable jury could also find that the Pima County Attorneys Office leveraged Taylors existing incarceration in order to extract a no-contest plea from him, despite Taylors protestations that he was innocent and had been wrongfully convicted, and despite evidence undermining the integrity of the 1972 convictions. If Taylor had rejected the no-contest plea agreement, he would have had to have spent months or even years waiting in prison while the trial court resolved his Petition for Post-Conviction Relief. The no-contest plea allowed him to instead obtain immediate release, and he has testified that he agreed to the plea solely because he did not want to spend any more time incarcerated. Even when not motivated by financial concerns, requiring a wrongfully convicted defendant to plead no contest to the original charges in order to obtain release from prison undermines the fairness and integrity of the justice system, Marquez wrote. Moreover, she said, a jury could reasonably find that subsequent actions under current Pima County Attorney Laura Conover indicate prosecutors were motivated by the countys financial considerations in their handling of Taylors case. Conover started notifying stakeholders in 2022 that a motion to exonerate Taylor would be filed, the judge said. But Conover later testified she changed her mind after meeting with her team about the legal standards for post-conviction relief. A former prosecutor in LaWalls office, David Berkman, had sent an email to a county supervisor warning that if exonerated at Conovers request, Taylor could get damages which may cost the County a ton, the judge noted. There are material disputes of fact concerning why Conover decided not to file a motion to exonerate Taylor, Marquez wrote. A reasonable jury could conclude that her decision was based solely on her evaluation of the legal merits of the draft motion to exonerate. However, a reasonable jury could instead find that her decision was influenced by Pima Countys financial considerations. Moving the case The lawyers for Pima County and Tucson subsequently wrote in their motion for a change of trial venue: Through the local media, evidence that Taylor intends to use at trial has been discussed (unfairly and even incorrectly), and key defense witnesses for the two local governments have been vilified. They also said that Conover, who is in the midst of her reelection campaign, is a key witness for Taylor. Only a transfer will ensure a fair trial and an impartial jury, they said. PHOENIX Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs acknowledged Friday she really didnt get anything out of the deal she cut with Republican lawmakers to resolve election deadline issues. Instead, she said, she just prevented the package pushed by Republicans from getting any worse, at least from her perspective. This bill is the result of a lot of compromise, Hobbs said. The final version Hobbs signed Friday gives GOP lawmakers two of their key demands. Most significantly, the governor agreed to put into law standards that county election officials must use when verifying the signatures on early ballot envelopes. Hobbs had wanted that to remain in guidance issued by the Secretary of States Office, something that could be altered without legislative approval. In fact, just last year she vetoed a measure to put the standards into law. The new package also shortens the amount of time voters whose signatures do not match have to cure their ballots. Those voters had been given until the Tuesday after the election, a deadline Democrats wanted to preserve. Now the fixes need to be done by Sunday. But Hobbs said that change does ensure county election offices will have to remain open on the weekend following the election. As for the fix to election deadline problems that also was sought by the Republican-controlled Legislature, Hobbs said: It ensures that our overseas and military voters are going to get their ballots on time. Thats because it moves up the primary election by a week to ensure there are final results that allow counties to prepare ballots for Arizonans who are not in the country and get them back ahead of the Nov. 5 general election. It also tightens up time frames after the general election to ensure the state can get its result in the presidential contest to Congress by the Dec. 11 deadline in federal law so that Arizonas electoral votes will count. One thing Hobbs and Democrats wanted and did not get is repeal of a 2022 law that increased the margin of difference between candidates to force a recount. It had been 0.1%. But Republican lawmakers pushed through a bill that year, signed by Republican then-Gov. Doug Ducey, to boost that to 0.5%. The number is significant. Joe Biden beat Donald Trump in 2020 in Arizona by 10,457 votes, more than enough to avoid a recount under the old law but a margin that would trigger a recount in the future under the new law. Hobbs said the change occurred because GOP lawmakers were following down conspiracy theory rabbit holes about the election. That change and the possibility of more recounts in future elections is what led county election officials to conclude they could not get everything done they needed to do and meet all deadlines. Republicans were adamant against rescinding the 2022 law. That forced a series of other changes, including moving the state primary up by a week this year, to July 30, and tightening up other deadlines. What her role came down to, Hobbs said, is mitigating the damages she thought would be done if Republicans got everything they wanted. A lot of folks where trying to make it a Christmas tree and attach a bunch of unrelated items to it, she said, meaning changes in election law not needed to resolve the immediate deadline problem created by the recount law. One of those things Hobbs said she was able to quash was a bid by Republicans to permanently move the states primary to May beginning in 2026. Theres no reason to move the deadline that far to fix this issue, she said. The best fix would be to repeal the recount threshold. Asked why she thinks GOP lawmakers wanted the primary in May, Hobbs answered, To have more leverage while the Legislature is still in session during an election year. She did not elaborate. But Senate President Warren Petersen, a Gilbert Republican, said, Will we have to move it up again to avoid future problems. All that has been resolved is 2024, he said of moving up the primary by a week but only for this year. House Speaker Ben Toma agreed, saying a permanent fix is needed. The governor appears to want to leave this unresolved for future cycles, which is something I dont understand, said the Peoria Republican. But we took care of this for now, so thats a win. The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer: Re: the Feb. 4 article Do Nordics do happiness right? Gil Shapiro wants the U.S. to be like the Nordic countries; that is, like Scandinavia, Finland, and Iceland. He is especially enamored with Finland. Who is Gil Shapiro? He is a resident of the Tucson suburb of Oro Valley and the past spokesman for the now-defunct organization, Freethought Arizona. The Arizona Daily Star recently published an op-ed of his on why the Nordic countries score higher than the U.S. on the World Happiness Report and what the U.S. needs to do to be as happy as them. What is Freethought Arizona? Heres the first sentence from its website: Freethought Arizona was established to grow and support a community of freethinkers, humanists, skeptics, agnostics, and atheists based on reason, science, and critical thinking. A note on the website says that the organization has dissolved and will donate all of its leftover funds to the Secular Student Alliance, Tucson Atheists Community Outreach Team (TACO), Camp Quest, the Satanic Temple of Arizona, and the Secular Coalition for Arizona. Funny thing, but the embrace of atheism by the now-defunct Freethought Arizona is at odds with the fact that religion is taught in Norways public schools. Does Mr. Shapiros desire for the U.S. to be like Nordic countries include the teaching of religion in American public schools? The above is an example of the problem that frequently occurs when people hold up other countries as exemplars for the U.S. In trying to show that the U.S. should be like some other country, they often pick facts that support their belief and ignore facts that dont. Dont get me wrong. Im not a jingoist or nationalist who thinks that the U.S. doesnt have serious problems. Far from it. But my take on what ails America is different from Shapiros. Shapiro believes that the citizens of Nordic countries are happier than the citizens of the U.S., because the former have better public schools, mostly free health care, free college, a much stronger social safety net, and a highly progressive tax code all of which keeps them from having to worry about being destitute and going without the necessities of life. Perhaps. But another possibility is that those socioeconomic features of Nordic life are not the causes of happiness. Rather, these features are the result of happiness, a happiness that in turn comes from living in small countries that are largely homogeneous in values, race, and ethnicity. Because of the homogeneity, they are high-trust societies and highly harmonious. Its easier to support a social-welfare state if citizens believe that their fellow citizens are not ripping them off. The trust and harmony are now under stress in a few Nordic countries due to a relatively recent influx of immigrants of different races, ethnicities, nationalities, and religions. The traditional Nordic culture is still holding, but cracks are appearing. Sweden, for example, has dialed back the progressivity of its tax code, so that it is now less progressive than the U.S. tax code, according to such reliable and nonpartisan sources as the Cato Institute. I saw the Nordic homogeneity when I had my consulting firm and went to Iceland to train just about every human resources manager on the island. I was the darkest person of all of the people I encountered. I asked my host over dinner if there were any black people in the nation. He replied that he knew of one black person. Incidentally, my host lamented that his two children, both college students, were still living at home and not getting out of bed until late morning, although they were in their mid to late twenties. They were in no hurry to graduate because college was free. Regarding primary and secondary education, Nordic countries outrank the U.S. on international comparisons. Finland in particular ranks high. It is in the top echelon along with such other leaders as Hong Kong, Taiwan, South Korea, and Japan. Finlands approach to revamping its public education system would have a zero chance of succeeding in the U.S. Among other comprehensive changes, it required that teachers have a masters degree, and it upgraded a teaching degree to be one of the most difficult and rigorous degrees to obtain. Imagine the reaction of American teacher unions to such a change. Nine years of schooling are mandatory in Finland and optional after that, but the country offers nontraditional options for learning after the ninth year. The social welfare state and the education system are firmly linked together in egalitarian ways. No doubt, a high level of social trust and harmony comes into play here, too. South Korea is not a Nordic country but is certainly homogeneous. Its education system is dramatically different from Finlands, in that it requires long hours, plenty of rote learning, and make-or-break tests. Yet it is a highly effective system judging by how well South Koreans perform on international tests. A similar situation exists in Japan, where the sense of community is so strong that students sweep the sidewalks and other public property bordering their schools. Imagine the parental uproar if American students were required to do the same. Nordic communities in the U.S. tend to have many values in common with the Nordic countries of Europe. My wife is half Swedish and half Scots-Irish. Her hometown is in northwest Pennsylvania, an area where a lot of Swedes settled. Nearby is Mt. Jewett, a small close-knit town that takes pride in its Swedish roots. Whenever Kim and I visit her family, we have breakfast at a Swedish cafe in Mt. Jewett and sometimes visit the historic Nebo Lutheran Chapel and Cemetery, where a couple of Kims ancestors are buried. Kims dad (RIP) was honored one year as the king of the annual Mt. Jewett Swedish Festival. The U.S. is of course a multiracial and multiethnic society, but one that seems to be splitting apart along racial and ethnic lines, as well as along lines of social class. The situation has become so divisive that the Swedes of Mt. Jewett and the Nordics of other towns are stereotyped and castigated as racist and privileged oppressors who benefited from slavery and colonialism, even though the Nordics and many other ethnic groups never participated in the slave trade, never became wealthy from King Cotton, never endorsed Jim Crow, never were against emancipation, and never engaged in colonialism. Their only sin is that their skin is white. This divisiveness and mistrust are why Gil Shapiros desire for the U.S. to be like Nordic countries is a pipe dream. There ought to be a way to tell you about it but I don't know how. Not with words like 'frostbite.' Not with any temperate-zone words I know." That's how Checotah native Jim G. Lucas explained to Americans the bitter cold during fighting near Wonju in central Korea, the type of description that won him a Pulitzer Prize for international reporting in 1954. "There's no describing it," Lucas had written. "Some people call it 'frostbite.' "Frostbite, hell. That's not the word when the flesh falls from a man's feet. Not when the toes swell and burst out of the shoes. Not when the hands turn black and the finger joints swell as big as a baby's elbow." "His reporting, mellowed by common understanding of the sacrifices endured by the men in the line, together with unwavering journalistic integrity, has resulted in the most outstanding portrayal of the American soldier in Korea," the Pulitzer committee said of Lucas' work. Lucas could "paint stark pictures with words," a Tulsa Tribune writer said of him in a 1983 story that recalled his coverage of World War II, the Korean and Vietnam wars. That story marked the 40th anniversary of the reporting that made Lucas famous -- his reporting of the Marines' landing on Tarawa, a Japanese-held island in the Gilberts. "Five minutes ago, we wrested this strategic Gilbert Island outpost and its all-important air strip from the Japanese who seized it from a few missionaries and natives weeks after they had attacked Pearl Harbor," Lucas wrote. "It has been the bitterest, costliest, most sustained fighting on any front." Lucas, a master technical sergeant in public relations, went ashore with the Marines on Tarawa for one of the fiercest battles in World War II. His story, the first report of the Tarawa fighting, was published on front pages of newspapers throughout the country. Soon after, Lucas was promoted to second lieutenant and received the Bronze Star medal. That story won the National Headliners Award for the best combat reporting of 1943. It was the first of eight Pacific landings Lucas made with the Marines during World War II; the others included Guadalcanal and Iwo Jima. Lucas' war reporting also won two Ernie Pyle awards as well as many other awards. Many other correspondents compared Lucas' human-interest reporting with Pyle's, and the Pulitzer citation mentioned his human-interest work during the Korean War, the cease-fire and the prisoner of war exchanges. The library in Checotah is named in his honor. Born in 1914, Lucas' newspaper career began with the Muskogee Phoenix. He became a Tulsa Tribune reporter in 1938 and worked for that newspaper until 1942, when he joined the Marine Corps as a private. After World War II, Lucas joined the Scripps-Howard Newspaper Alliance as its Washington military correspondent. He covered the first atomic bomb test at Bikini and in 1947 went to the South Pole with Adm. Richard E. Byrd. He went to Korea in 1950 at the beginning of that war and reported from there for 26 of the war's 36 months, including the end of fighting. He was in Vietnam before the big American buildup for fighting there. Lucas briefed President Lyndon Johnson and Congress on the war in Vietnam after publication of his book, "Dateline: Viet Nam," in 1966. He later wrote a biographical book about Spiro Agnew but died of cancer in 1970 before it was published. When he learned he had cancer, Lucas volunteered to be part of a research program aimed at finding new methods for treatment. Like this column? Read all the columns in the Only in Oklahoma series from the Tulsa World Archive. Owasso police are investigating the death of a teenager one day after they were reportedly involved in a fight at school. On Wednesday, Feb. 7, around 3:30 p.m., police were called to Bailey Medical Center by the parent of a 16-year-old Owasso High School student who allegedly had a physical altercation at the campus earlier that day, according to the police report. It states that no initial report of the fight was made to police prior to their admission to Bailey, although information was taken by a school resource officer at the hospital. On Thursday evening, police were made aware that the student was rushed back to the hospital where they were pronounced dead from a medical episode, the report states. It is unknown if the students latest medical incident is related to the previous altercation. A thorough investigation is currently being conducted by police detectives. The Owasso Police Department offers our condolences to the family, friends, fellow students and loved ones of the deceased student, Lt. Nick Boatman said in an email. Owasso Public Schools officials issued an additional statement in a separate email: The Owasso Police Department has notified district leaders of the death of an Owasso High School student. The students name and cause of death have not yet been made public. As this is an active police investigation, we will have no additional comment at this time. Further inquiries should be directed to the Owasso Police Department. The district will have additional counselors at the school to provide support to students and staff. Tim Stanley Tulsa World Staff Writer Follow Tim Stanley Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today Groups of students from New York University will soon be making Tulsa their temporary home. Officials have announced that New York City-based NYU, in partnership with Tulsas George Kaiser Family Foundation, will be establishing an academic center in Tulsa, with plans that include collaborating with local universities on research and other projects. The center, to launch the spring semester of 2025, will be modeled after similar NYU academic centers in Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles and will support a variety of programs in research, innovation, economic and workforce development. NYU is the largest private research university in the United States. GKFF is always working on new talent attraction initiatives, said Aaron Miller, head of national partnerships for the Tulsa Community Foundation. So we feel like NYU Tulsa fits in with those efforts to bring great creative people to town. NYU officials are impressed with what Tulsa has to offer, he added. They see Tulsa as this shining star, Miller said. Were excited that they recognize that and that theyre putting a real investment into our community. The center will start with around 20 NYU undergraduates, who will spend their spring 2025 semester in Tulsa. From there, NYU plans to have students in Tulsa year-round, expanding to about 100 students a year overall. The plan has been in the works for about a year, officials said. NYU President Linda Mills, who visited Tulsa in March 2023, said: Sometimes you encounter a potential partner and just know from the beginning that theres something right about the partnership a shared outlook, a similar spirit. Thats how it was with our partners in Tulsa. As with Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., we are excited to become part of the Tulsa community and have it become part of our network. NYU officials said an important part of the effort will be collaborating with the Tulsa areas existing higher education institutions on programs and research projects. Groundwork for partnering has already been laid with the University of Tulsa through multiple meetings, officials said. NYUs application for the center was approved by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education. The university will look to hire a program director and part-time faculty from the Tulsa area, along with finding space to lease for the center in Tulsas downtown arts district. Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum said: NYU is a global leader in research and education, and we are thrilled they chose to make a major investment in Tulsa as their fourth location in the United States. The mayor added that hes grateful that NYU will collaborate with the vibrant higher education ecosystem we enjoy here in Tulsa, solidifying our citys central role in shaping the journey of future leaders. I want to thank the team at the George Kaiser Family Foundation for yet again facilitating greater opportunity in Tulsa for young people. Ken Levit, GKFF executive director, said: GKFF has long invested in higher education, working closely with the University of Oklahoma, University of Tulsa, Tulsa Community College and Oklahoma State University, and NYUs commitment to Tulsa will complement existing programs through collaborative research and student experiences. The decision by NYU to select Tulsa is a testament to Tulsas bold spirit and exciting future, Levit added. This collaboration has such exciting potential. In addition, Tulsa will host students from NYU for shorter stays starting this March for spring break, as well as over the summer. The students coming in March are participants in an NYU program that allows students to spend their winter or spring breaks doing community service projects around the world. In addition to the spring break program, summer internship programs for NYU students are planned in Tulsa through GKFF. The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today. Randy Krehbiel Tulsa World Staff Writer Follow Randy Krehbiel Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today Brent Swadley and two others associated with his companys involvement in renovation and operation of six state park restaurants were indicted by Oklahomas multicounty grand jury on Thursday. The indictments charge each of the three with one felony count of conspiracy to defraud the state and five felony counts of presenting false or fraudulent claims against the state. Named are Ronald Brent Swadley, Timothy Raymond Hooper and Curtis Ray Breuklander. Swadley owns seven barbecue restaurants in the state and Swadleys Foggy Bottom Kitchen, which was organized to rebuild and operate the six state park restaurants. Hooper and Breuklander were Swadleys employees. The grand jury alleges in the indictment that Swadleys Foggy Bottom Kitchen maintained two sets of invoices, one original and the other altered. These invoices, it is alleged, were then presented to the Tourism Department, which was in charge of the project. The Tourism Department hired Swadleys in 2019 to completely revamp the six state park restaurants. Swadleys did the work, but allegations of mismanagement and questionable charges soon surfaced. The state sued Swadleys in April 2022, and Tourism Director Jerry Winchester and several other senior managers left the department. On Monday, perhaps in anticipation of Thursdays indictment, Swadleys asserted in a motion for the 2022 case that its still owed $2.5 million by the state. The motion says the situation is a Tourism Department scandal, not a Swadleys scandal. Among the items mentioned in the indictment are two used smokers, allegedly marked up 30%, that have received wide publicity over the past two years. In its filing earlier this week, Swadleys said it supplied the smokers out of its own inventory because none were available on the regular market during the pandemic. The filing says Swadleys had trouble putting a value to the units, which accounted for more than one invoice. The filing says the Tourism Department insisted on obtaining the smokers over Swadleys objections. In a related court proceeding, Swadleys is appealing to the Oklahoma Supreme Court the dismissal of its suit against Breuklander, a former company vice president who reportedly cooperated with investigators. The suit charges Breuklander with business disparagement and defamation. That petition says Breucklander left the company after the Swadley family refused to give him an ownership stake in it. The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today. Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year festival) is a special occasion for not only Vietnamese people but also for foreigners, with some being unfamiliar with it while others, who have been living in Vietnam for years, feel accustomed to the holiday. A number of expats living across Vietnam have shared their Tet plan this year under a request from Tuoi Tre News. The comments were edited by Tuoi Tre News for clarity, consistency, and coherence. I love the Tet displays Jade Tornquist and her granddaughter are seen in this provided photo. I will visit the flower and dragon Tet displays in Vung Tau and then I will do the same in Saigon. After that, I will leave the country for a week. I enjoy the flowers and fruit trees lined up on the streets. I love the Tet displays, theyre so eye-catching and interesting. For me, foreigners opting to leave the country is not really due to boredom, it's because the apartment blocks can become very loudly and busy. I also like to enjoy my free time and visit new places. I spent my first Tet in Vung Tau at a local orphanage. We took the children to the front beach and showed them the displays and had ice-cream. It was the year of the Dog. This year has been exciting as my granddaughter (her mother is Vietnamese) is nearly four and loves wearing her ao dai (Vietnamese traditional long dress) and enjoying Tet photos and festivities. Thanks to my daughter-in-law, I learnt about the way you worship and pay respect to ancestors during Tet. I learnt about the origin of banh chung and that apricot blossoms are meant to welcome guests to your home. I went to my daughter-in law a few years ago for Tet and saw they had watermelon, banh chung, fish, pork dishes, sunflower and pumpkins seeds, and cakes. People were playing games together. Jade Tornquist, Australian, living in Vung Tau I love Tet for the excitement and the family bonding Jake Noris is seen in this provided photo. We are walking to raise funds for the Thanh Loc Project and Blue Dragon Children's Foundation to help underprivileged children in Vietnam. By the time of writing, we had walked 1,600 kilometers and had been in Da Lat. We will be stopping in Di Linh District in the Central Highlands Province of Lam Dong for Tet holiday and hoping to celebrate with the friendly local population. I've spent four or five Tet holidays in Vietnam. I love it, the celebrations and the focus on family gathering. My first experience of Tet in Vietnam was actually in Hanoi, which was quite confronting. Stores were closed. However, it meant we had the whole city for ourselves, peaceful and quiet. Now I either travel during Tet with my friends to celebrate as family and bring in the new year or ride my motorbike to the rural areas of Vietnam, as I love being invited into Vietnamese strangers homes to share stories and drink rice wine. I love Tet for the excitement it brings to the Vietnamese people and the family bonding. Jake Norris, Australian, living in Hanoi Everyone is having fun Jim Reischl is seen in this provided photo with his wife. I have experienced Tet almost every year since 2014. When I came to Vietnam, I got away from the bitter cold at the place I lived at the time. In the first few years, I did notice the quietness in Ho Chi Minh City and the lack of people around Tet. Now I live with my Vietnamese wife, and her family often gather for Tet. She and her two brothers and an older sister all live next to each other, so anything about Tet is done with them, eating, playing music, and stuff like that. It seems everyone is having fun. Jim Reischl, American, living in Da Lat Tet is time to slow down and recharge Daniel Ansel Tingcungco from the Philippines. Photo: Son Trang / Tuoi Tre It was during the Tet of 2019 that I first arrived in Vietnam and was greeted with a warm welcome of the festive season, yet I also didnt expect Ho Chi Minh City to be so quiet back then. By then I learned that most people had already gone back to their hometown to celebrate this occasion with their families, hence many businesses and establishments were closed. As a first time visitor then, it might sound boring at first since I only had limited places to go to, but then I realized, it gave me a quiet space to really enjoy the peaceful vibe of the city. Tet is always a symbol of new life for me. While many people would opt to travel overseas during this time because its boring to stay home, it has become a special time for me to just stay in Ho Chi Minh City and take it as a chance to slow down and recharge - something that doesnt come so often during the rest of the year if you live here. So every Tet, I decide to stay, although this year I will visit my family back home in the Philippines. For the most part of the days during Tet, doing almost nothing can be a reward. But then, I get restless so I would go for long walks around the neighborhood and if theres an open cafe, I would sit there, draw or read a book or just watch the day go by. I would also visit and hang out with Saigonese friends and celebrate with them with some Tet food. Thit kho trung is my favorite and also banh tet/banh chung. Its always a matter of perspective whenever you want to spend your time, I hope many will have a good time even for just being here during this holiday. Daniel Ansel Tingcungco, Filipino, living in Ho Chi Minh City Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! A small hamlet in the west of Denmark is facing an unusual existential threat: a landslide of contaminated waste that is bearing down on the community and a nearby river. "It's three to six million cubic metres of soil, clay, and polluted dirt coming down from that hill, and it's all placed there by the company that was there," fumes Jan Kristian Jensen, a 47-year-old resident of Olst. The woes began on December 11 for the village, a close-knit community of 45 tidy brick homes. That's when Nordic Waste, which specialises in cleaning up contaminated soil, said the land was sliding at its hillside facility near the Alling river. The company blamed heavy rainfall after the wettest year on record in Denmark. The site's waste comes mainly from Denmark's mink farms, which were ordered to shut down during the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as some imported waste from Norway. The problems rapidly escalated. With the soil initially advancing by nine to 10 metres (30 to 33 feet) a day, pressure from the moving ground caused a secondary road to give way. All of Nordic Waste's buildings but one then collapsed, as the mud flowed freely. A square-kilometre perimeter was erected around the site and the road was closed to traffic. Eight days after its announcement, Nordic Waste abandoned its efforts to contain the mess. The nearby municipality of Randers swiftly jumped in to take over. "We had to tell contractors to keep working with their big machines at the site to avoid everything being contaminated," the mayor of Randers, Torben Hansen, told AFP. His top priorities were to protect the local river from being polluted and prevent Olst from being wiped off the map. So far he seems to have succeeded, with daily soil and water samples showing no signs of pollution. Who will pay? But the area now resembles an enormous construction site, and several large basins have been created to collect rainwater. The mayor is furious with Nordic Waste, and the Randers municipality does not want to finance the cleanup. "In the first weeks, the municipality spent 100 million kroner ($14.4 million) and now we want the company to pay," Hansen said. The company, which was declared bankrupt on January 22, is a subsidiary of the USTC holding company owned by billionaire Torben Ostergaard-Nielsen, one of Denmark's richest men. "Everything was carefully controlled, and we never operated without the required authorisations," said Nina Ostergaard Borris, the head of USTC. An engineering service consultancy, Cowi, has estimated the cleanup cost at 2.2 billion kroner, insisting on the importance of ongoing work to build dykes to protect the village from an "avalanche of mud". The Danish parliament has already allocated 205 million kroner. "If nothing was done, within one to two years our whole city ... would be covered by five to 10 metres of dirt," said Jensen, citing a Cowi report. "It took us a few days to digest that." Neither Jensen nor his neighbours imagined they would ever be affected by such a catastrophe. 'Could have been prevented' According to geologist Kristian Svennevig of the Geological Survey of Denmark and Greenland (GEUS), "this type of landslide is completely unique in Denmark" -- and totally the result of human activities. "In the public discourse the landslide was caused by this very wet 2023. But we can see that it started way back in 2021," a "relatively dry" period, he said. "It's not caused by climatic factors. It is in fact caused by the landfill itself, that the soil is being put in this old clay pit," he said. At the onset, the land movements were small and went unreported. "Had the decision-makers working with it had the level of knowledge that we have now, we could have prevented it by not putting the landfill there," Svennevig said. "As the landslide was progressing, mitigation could have been initiated to stop it." At the end of January, Jensen and his neighbours were allowed to visit the site. "Our understanding is... that we will not be covered" in waste, he said, relieved. But questions remain. "Is it safe to stay here? What is in the dirt?" Jensen asked. The government has opened an inquiry to determine responsibility. A former top marketing executive at TikTok sued the social media company and its China-based parent ByteDance on Thursday, claiming she had been forced out of her job after she complained about sex, age and disability discrimination. Katie Puris said in a complaint filed in Manhattan federal court that her 2022 firing was the culmination of a series of incidents where she reported bias and, in one case, sexual harassment to supervisors and human resources. Puris, who was nearing 50 when she was fired, claims she was subject to derogatory comments about her age and that ByteDance chairman Zhang Lidong believed women "should remain quiet and humble at all times" and preferred "docility and meekness" in female employees. She also claims TikTok refused to grant her leave to address medical conditions spurred by the stress and pressure of her job. TikTok and ByteDance did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Marjorie Mesidor and Monica Hincken, lawyers for Puris, said in a joint statement that she faced swift retaliation for complaining about discrimination despite being "enormously successful" at her job. "TikToks actions against Ms. Puris are illegal and we look forward to vindicating her rights," they said. Puris previously worked at Alphabet's Google, Meta's, Facebook and major advertising agencies, according to her complaint. The lawsuit accuses TikTok and ByteDance of violating U.S. and New York state and city laws prohibiting workplace discrimination and retaliation. Puris is seeking unspecified damages for economic losses, pain and suffering, and harm to her reputation and career. MEXICO CITY - The population of monarch butterflies in the Mexican forests where they spend the winter fell to the second-lowest figure on record this season, offering a grim snapshot of the already endangered orange-and-black insects. The iconic butterflies' presence was only documented in 2.2 acres (0.9 hectares) of forest spanning a couple Mexican states where they traditionally hunker down for the winter, according to the latest annual study published on Wednesday and conducted by Mexico's protected natural areas commission and the Swiss-based World Wildlife Fund (WWF), an environmental group. In the mid-1990s, monarch butterflies could be found on around 45 acres of the same forests covered largely by pine and fir trees, along the border between Michoacan and Mexico states. monarch butterfly rests on a leaf at the Sierra Chincua butterfly sanctuary in Angangeo, Michoacan state, Mexico December 3, 2022. REUTERS/Raquel Cunha/File Photo The 2023-2024 winter figure marks the second-lowest since the population survey began over three decades ago, and is down nearly 60% from just the previous winter. Biologists pin the blame for the nosedive on higher-than-usual temperatures and drought conditions where the butterfly reproduces, mostly in northwestern U.S. states like Washington, Oregon and California. The adverse weather, made worse by climate change, translates into less milkweed, the plant where the butterflies mostly lay their eggs and what their caterpillar offspring feed on. In one of the planet's epic wildlife migrations, the fluttering butterflies travel south as many as 2,800 miles (4,500 km) from spots as far north as Canada to eventually spend the winter in warmer Mexico, where millions cling to trees that protect them from the rain and chill. Monarch butterflies fly at the Sierra Chincua butterfly sanctuary in Angangeo, Michoacan state, Mexico. December 3, 2022 REUTERS/Raquel Cunha TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY/File Photo Monarch butterfly populations fluctuate year to year, and as recently as 2021, the same survey showed a 35% uptick to cover around 7 acres. Officials and activists called for more action to boost the species, including the need to confront threats posed by herbicides that decimate milkweed plus forest conservation. "We can't lower our guard," Jorge Rickards, head of WWF's Mexico office, told reporters after releasing the latest data. Monarch butterflies rest on a tree at the Sierra Chincua butterfly sanctuary in Angangeo, Michoacan state, Mexico December 6, 2023. REUTERS/Raquel Cunha/File Photo Politics -- At a meeting with mass media on Thursday, Ho Chi Minh Citys chairman Phan Van Mai called on people, businesses and agencies to continue contributing to the ongoing implementation the citys five-year socio-economic development plan, in which the city has targeted a GDP growth rate of 7.5 - 8 percent for 2024, based on three key growth drivers of investment, consumption and export. Business -- Ho Chi Minh Citys first metro line will be put on trial run on the whole route (nearly 20 km) during the 2024 Tet (Lunar New Year) holiday, which started on Thursday, after the successful trial in August 2023, according to the Metro Line 1 Project Management Board No. 1 under the Management Authority for Urban Railways of Ho Chi Minh City. -- Many cafes and restaurants in Hanoi have posted signs announcing normal operation throughout Tet, instead of taking a break as in previous years. Some have kept prices unchanged while others have applied a 10-percent rise or a 20-percent surcharge on selling prices. -- The ministries of Finance and Industry-Trade cut down fuel prices on Thursday. The prices of E5RON92 and RON95 gasoline decreased by VND793 and VND898 to VND22,120 and VND23,262 per liter, respectively. Diesel oil now costs VND20,707 per liter, down by VND292, while the price of kerosene went down by VND335 to VND20,588 per liter, and mazut saw its price down by VND489 to VND15,598 per kilogram (US$1 = VND24,425). Society -- During the first day of the Lunar New Year holiday, February 8, 79 traffic accidents occurred across the country, killing 33 people and injuring 73 others. All the incidents happened on roads. The death toll decreased by four while the number of injured increased by 17 year on year. Traffic police across the country handled 8,540 violations and impounded about 3,200 vehicles of all types. -- Police in Quang Nam Province, central Vietnam, are investigating the case in which the burned body of a person was found inside a burned seven-seater car after the fire from the car was put off in a vacant land site in Tam Ky City on Thursday afternoon. Police officers have examined the scene of the incident and local forensic experts have performed an autopsy on the corpse to identify the dead person. -- A long haul bus carrying more than tens of passengers, including children, capsized after a collision with a four-seater car while travelling on National Highway in Quang Tri Province at about 8:00 pm on Thursday. Locals helped passengers to get out of the bus and took those who were injured to hospital. There was no report on human loss. Traffic police are investigating the cause of the accident. -- The Vietnam National Traffic Safety Committee on Thursday issued a warning to drivers of vehicles about the nail scattering that is raging on National Highway 1 sections leading to the Mekong Delta provinces. Nails herein refers to rhombus-shaped metal objects that were believed to be purposely scattered by repair shop owners along the roads to puncture tires and thus force drivers to use their service, normally at exorbitant prices. Lifestyle -- Authorities of Can Tho City, Vietnams Mekong Delta region, have for the first time mobilized a 2,500-ton barge to launch 1,000 high-altitude fireworks on the Lunar New Years Eve at 0:00 am on February 10 at the intersection of Can Tho River and Hau River, in Ninh Kieu District. -- The administration of Khanh Hoa Province, south-central Vietnam, has approved a three-month pilot plan for tours to the peak of Hon Ba Mountain, where tourists can visit many attractions within the Hon Ba Nature Reserve and the house of Swiss-French doctor and bacteriologist Alexandre Yersin, which was built in 1914 after he observed and searched for a path to climb the peak at an altitude of about 1,500 meters. World News -- A volcano in southwestern Iceland erupted on Thursday for the third time since December, pumping lava up to 80 metres (260 feet) into the air and threatening to disrupt life in Reykjanes peninsula, Reuters reported. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Police in Bac Lieu Province, Vietnams Mekong Delta region, have detained a local woman for allegedly having sold more than 100 Vietnamese women to China as wives for local men, for up to US$24,600 per person, since 2013. The provincial police department on Thursday issued a decision to arrest and prosecute Danh Thi Mau, 52, on charges of human trafficking, according to the Vietnam News Agency. Mau was accused of colluding with others to seek poor Vietnamese women who wanted to marry Chinese men and then sent them to China through illegal border crossing in northern Vietnam localities bordering China. The suspect seduced her potential preys by assuring them that they would have a chance to get a better life after going to China and marrying local men. According to agreements with such women, Mau paid each of their families VND70-150 million ($2,870-6,150) before sending them to China. Chinese men who bought such women paid Mau and her accomplices VND300-600 million ($12,300-24,600) per woman based on their appearance and ages, police reported. After marrying Chinese men, many Vietnamese women were abused and beaten, and they wanted to return home. In such cases, Mau asked their families to return all the money they had received from her before she arranged for them to be sent back to Vietnam, investigators said. From 2013 until her arrest, Mau and her accomplices allegedly sold more than 100 Vietnamese women to China, illegally earning billions of dong (VND1 billion = $41,040), according to the case file. Local police are hunting for Maus accomplices. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Italian luxury cruise ship AIDA Bella with nearly 2,000 German and Australian travelers on board arrived in Phu Quoc, a famous tourist island city off Kien Giang Province in Vietnams Mekong Delta region, on Friday, a day ahead of the 2024 Lunar New Year. The vessel docked at the Duong Dong Port of Phu Quoc at around 6:30 am, after three days of sea travel, said Nguyen Thi Bich Dieu, director of Dong Noi Tourism Co., Ltd., a local travel firm. These international visitors will take tours to numerous attractive destinations in Phu Quoc, such as the Phu Quoc night market, Vinwonders Phu Quoc, Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc, Hon Thom cable car system and Cau Hon (Kiss Bridge). They will also take part in many exciting activities in Phu Quoc National Park, explore the island's most beautiful beaches, and visit traditional fish sauce villages and the Phu Quoc pepper farm. German and Australian tourists are seen leaving a small boat of the super cruise ship AIDA Bella to go ashore on Phu Quoc island off Kien Giang Province, southern Vietnam on February 9, 2024. Photo: H.D. / Tuoi Tre This is the second ship to visit the pearl island of Phu Quoc in early 2024. As these travelers have arrived on the traditional Vietnamese Tet, they will have chances to discover interesting things about the customs and cultural beauty of the island's people during the festival, Dieu said. She expressed her belief that such trips will contribute to promoting the tourism cooperation between Germany and Australia in the coming time. Earlier on February 2, Phu Quoc welcomed the Italian 5-star cruise ship Costa Serena that brought around 1,100 international guests from Thailand, the U.S., China, and other countries. Since early this year, Phu Quoc has received an estimate of over 500,000 arrivals of tourists, including more than 82,600 of foreign travelers, according to the citys administration. Previously a district of Kien Giang, Phu Quoc was turned into the countrys first island city on March 1, 2021, pursuant to a resolution issued by the Vietnamese National Assemblys Standing Committee in late 2020. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Police in Nghe An Province, north-central Vietnam, have arrested 32 suspects from a gang that colluded with other suspects working for companies abroad to carry out scams in which they pretended to be judicial officers to cheat their Vietnamese victims out of over US$8.2 million. During an investigation starting in July 2023, the provincial police department detected Tang Quang Vinh, 35, a resident in District 5, Ho Chi Minh City as one of the gangs masterminds directing the collusion between suspects living in Vietnam, including Nghe An, and those working at companies abroad to conduct scams targeting Vietnamese victims. After arresting Vinh, local police continued to detain 31 others residing in Ho Chi Minh City and Binh Thuan and Thanh Hoa Provinces. Nghe An accounts for 26 among the 32 arrested suspects, who were in charge of different roles in their scams. During phone calls with their potential preys in the premade lists, some gang members falsely claimed themselves as police officers, while others pretended to be prosecutors or court officials. These swindlers told their preys that the latter had their phone numbers or bank accounts blocked because they were being investigated criminally due to their involvement in deceptive organizations or because their phone numbers or accounts were being abused by criminals for illegal activities. The cheaters later asked their victims to transfer their money to the designated bank accounts and follow their directions, including registering e-banking services, and then provided them with one-time passwords (OTPs) so that they appropriate money in their victims accounts. The swindlers requested their preys not to reveal the relations between the two sides to anybody. With such tricks, the gang had cheated a total of more than VND200 billion ($8.21 million) from their victims from different localities in the country, investigators said. Local police are investigating the case to clarify the roles of each gang member in Vietnam and abroad. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! China's fifth research station in Antarctica, the Qinling Station, commenced operations on Wednesday morning on Inexpressible Island in the Terra Nova Bay of the world's southernmost continent. In a letter to polar researchers on Wednesday, President Xi Jinping congratulated them on the completion of the building of the station and its operation, and urged them to continue to work hard and innovate. Xi, who is also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, extended his sincere greetings and Chinese Lunar New Year wishes to people working on polar research. Noting that this year marks the 40th anniversary of China's polar expedition, Xi said the nation's polar research has achieved fruitful results and the completion of the Qinling Station will provide a strong guarantee for scientists in China and around the world to continue to explore the mysteries of nature and bravely ascend the peak of science. He called for better understanding, protection and utilization of the polar regions to make new and greater contributions to the benefit of humanity and the building of a community with a shared future for humanity. The Qinling Station can accommodate 80 people in the summer and 30 in the winter, according to the Polar Research Institute of China, which was in charge of the station's construction. The station, with an area of 5,244 square meters, has an external shape resembling the Southern Cross constellation, a unique design to honor Zheng He, a legendary admiral, mariner and diplomat in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), the institute said. The ancient Chinese invented astronavigation, and Zheng He was among the first to use it during many of his voyages. All of the large components of the new Antarctic research station were built in China, with inner hardware already mounted and then transported to Inexpressible Island for assembly. Engineers used lightweight, high-strength materials at the station, making it able to resist extreme temperatures as low as -60 C and the corrosive environment on the island. Construction work, which started in December, was conducted by members of the nation's 40th Antarctic expedition, which set off from Shanghai in early November and arrived in Antarctica later that month. Before Qinling, China had constructed four research stations in Antarctica Changcheng, Zhongshan, Taishan and Kunlun. The new station is China's third Antarctic research base to be operational throughout the year, alongside Changcheng and Zhongshan, which were both built in the late 1980s. Currently, the Kunlun and Taishan stations operate only during the summer. At a news conference on Wednesday afternoon, Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said the Qinling Station will serve to bolster mankind's knowledge about Antarctica, advance the peaceful and sustainable development of the southernmost continent and act as a platform for joint exploration. China places high attention on the scientific research and peaceful development of polar regions. So far, the nation has conducted 40 expeditions to Antarctica and 13 to the Arctic, obtaining a great deal of scientific data and many samples. He Jianfeng, a scientist at the Polar Research Institute of China, said the Qinling Station will enable researchers to carry out investigations about the waters, glaciers, ice shelves, weather, environment and animals in Antarctica. Rebel Wilson hosts annual industry awards from HOTA on the Gold Coast. 7pm Saturday on 10. True Detective Darby & Joan Space Invaders RuPauls Drag Race Lion Dancers: The Crane and the Lion The second year of Frame Doc Lab and Frame Doc Talks programs will be held in Melbourne from February to June 2024. Frame Documentary is running a public and industry program to promote new and existing work and talent within the immersive media space. The four teams selected for the Frame Doc Lab program are Lichen Kelp and Luna Mrozik Gawler, Eugenia Lim and Eva Otsing, Chris Luscri and Tully Arnot, Sarah Walker and Roslyn Oades. Each team will receive $15,000 of development funding to support their work within the dedicated lab program. A public-facing program of talks will be delivered in partnership with State Library Victorias new Digital Salon series. The talks will provide the public with access to the international creatives who are participating in the lab program. Visiting creatives include Canadian Director, Vincent Morisset and American creator Amelia Winger-Bearskin who will both be discussing their award winning work marrying storytelling, immersive technology and interactivity. Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks said: Congratulations to the teams, including seven Victorians, participating in this years Frame Doc Lab. Were proud to back this program creating cutting-edge new works bringing together art, screen and technology, while boosting Victorias reputation as a breeding ground for great storytelling and creative talent. State Library Victoria CEO Paul Duldig says, The Library is delighted to partner with Frame Documentary for a second year to support and inspire new work by innovative documentary storytellers. We are excited to host Frames international guests as part of our new Digital Salon series, which launches this month to share with the community how these leading artists are using digital technologies in their practice. Frames focus on the creative use of digital technologies elevates future storytelling for all Victorians to enjoy. Through our partnership with Frame, the Library continues to nurture creators, encourages the exploration of new ideas and creates compelling digital experiences to inspire our visitors. CEO of VicScreen, Caroline Pitcher said, Victoria is making its mark as a go-to-destination for ambitious storytelling on screen, and we are proud to support our local talent to continue to push the boundaries and upskill their careers through programs like those led by Frame Documentary. Last year, the projects blew everyone away with their state-of-the-art technology and cutting-edge ideas, and we look forward to another brilliant slate of projects in 2024. The first Digital Salon featuring Vincent Morisset will take place on Monday 19 February 2024, 6 7.30pm at the State Library Victoria. www.frame.org.au To win Australian Survivor and its $500,000 prize, the Reality show demands you outwit, outplay and outlast all others in the tribe. But does that mean being the best physical threat, the best strategic threat, someone who flies under the radar or a combination of them all? You gotta have a really good social game, host Jonathan LaPaglia recently told TV Tonight. You need the ability to think five steps ahead. But most importantly, I think youve got to be willing to take risks. I think those are the three key features to succeeding in this game. And you look at someone like George (2022, 2023) and he has all that, right? You could argue that maybe Georges social game is not quite strong enough because even though he gets to the end, he cant secure everyones votes. But those are the three key elements of a good player and thats what I always look for. Meanwhile LaPaglia has been filming Top Gear Australia for Paramount+. We started shooting in Australia before Christmas and then afterwards, we were in Colombia. Were currently in Dallas, getting ready to shoot the next story. And then we go into Europe, and then back to Australia. Is like a whirlwind tour. Its like a world tour. Its crazy. Australian Survivor continues 7:30pm Sunday Tuesday on 10. British talk show Piers Morgan Uncensored has quit broadcaster TalkTV after almost two years, as it heads exclusively to YouTube. The veteran journalist indicated he wants to go full digital globally and escape the straightjacket of a nightly show. Theres something quite anachronistic about a show like mine still trying to create old fashioned TV for a pre-scheduled time slot each night for a relatively small audience when were getting such gigantic audiences digitally, Morgan told website Semafor. He later told The Times: I could happily interview Elon Musk for three or four hours tomorrow and the audience would lap it up. But the nightly restriction of having to go into a studio at 8pm when sometimes there is nothing happening and literally fill time? Nobody wants that. While television ratings have been described as lacklustre Morgans channel on YouTube has 2.35 million subscribers with some clips raking in millions of views after going viral. Exciting news Piers Morgan Uncensored is about to get even bigger!@piersmorgan | #PMU pic.twitter.com/pp9ACr5Vn5 Piers Morgan Uncensored (@PiersUncensored) February 8, 2024 Morgan said that the decision to leave was his own, although media mogul Rupert Murdoch is said to have also been unhappy with the shows ratings. He was reportedly being paid 50m (A$97m) over three years for his work in a global deal in 2021. Piers Morgan Uncensored screens in Australia on SKY News, but its future as a television programme is now unclear. Source: Sky News UK By Andrew Gray and John Irish BRUSSELS/PARIS (Reuters) - An EU effort to impose sanctions on Israeli settlers attacking Palestinians in the West Bank has stalled due to objections from Hungary and the Czech Republic, diplomats say. The two staunch allies of Israel made clear in an EU committee on Thursday they were not ready to let the proposal go forward for now, said four diplomats, speaking on condition of anonymity about internal EU deliberations. Some said a compromise may be found later to let the measures proceed, possibly after more EU sanctions on Hamas, the Palestinian militant group responsible for the Oct. 7 attack on Israel that triggered the current Middle East crisis. While much international attention has focused on that cross-border assault from Gaza and Israel's subsequent war there, European officials have also expressed increasing concern about rising violence against Palestinians in the West Bank. The United States and Britain have expressed similar concerns and have already imposed sanctions on several settlers they say are responsible for violence. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said in December he would propose similar measures. But EU sanctions require unanimity among member states and the bloc has yet to find agreement - a reflection of broader divisions on the Middle East, with some EU countries strongly backing Israel while others lean more towards the Palestinians. The proposals under discussion would impose sanctions on around a dozen people or organisations, according to diplomats. The EU has not spelled out what the sanctions would entail but officials have said they would include bans on travel to the EU. The EU has already imposed sanctions on Hamas following the Oct. 7 attacks and diplomats say more are in the pipeline. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said on Wednesday now was "definitely not the time" to sanction Israeli settlers, state news agency MTI reported. Budapest says the EU's focus should be on helping Israel to defeat Hamas and free hostages. Story continues Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky said his country was not "substantively" blocking sanctions on settlers inciting violence but did not want them to come alongside measures against Hamas. "An act of terrorism is not on the same level as acts by settlers," he said. "These things cannot be connected." France, which has been pushing for the settler sanctions and is expected to introduce national travel bans on two or three individuals imminently, is hoping that once its measures are in place European partners will be more willing to press ahead. "Once we have our measures we shall see how the others react," said a French diplomatic source. (Additonal reporting by Jan Lopatka in Prague and Boldizsar Gyori in Budapest; Editing by Nick Macfie) Welcome Guest! You are here: Home India Drive Against Encroachment, Really? Amnesty Tears Into Bulldozer Justice Calling the Bulldozer Injustice violation of the International Humanitarian Laws, the Amnesty International urged the Narendra Modi government to give it a stop. Read More Saturday February 10, 2024 0:37 AM , ummid.com News Network Mumbai: The Amnesty International has accused the governments in five Indian states of blatant bias against Muslims in turn engaging in extra-judicial collective punishment of the community under the guise of clearing encroachment which its supporters boast of as Bulldozer Justice. In a report released on Wednesday February 07, 2024, the Amnesty International described the governments drive against encroachments conducted after communal clashes as Bulldozer Injustice committed to selectively target the Muslims. The authorities had specifically targeted Muslim-populated areas and discriminately demolished properties of Muslims, while the neighboring Hindu properties were left untouched, the Amnesty said in a 78-page report titled If you speak up, your house will be demolished: Bulldozer Injustice in India. '128 demolitions in 15 days' The Amnesty documented in detail as many as 128 cases of demolitions done in five states - including Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Assam all ruled by the BJP, and Delhi where the Aam Aadmit Party (AAP) is in power. The Amnesty International said it verified the discriminatory actions of the authorities by visiting the sites of demolitions and found that properties owned by people of Hindu faith continued to stand erect. This pattern was distinctly visible in Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat, it said. There is a Hindu temple built on government land right across where my shop stood. Its huge. That is clearly illegal occupation of government land, but will they remove it? If they want to do justice, it should be done equally, whether the property belongs to Hindu or Muslim, the Amnesty International quoted Zahid Ali Sayyed, who owned a tent house in Khargone, Madhya Pradesh, as saying. Shockingly, the 128 demolition cases that the Amnesty documented in its report occurred in April 2022 within a span of just 15 days. "In a span of 15 days, at least 128 properties were destroyed in the five states: 36 in Gujarat (21 in Khambhat and 13 in Himmatnagar), 56 in Madhya Pradesh (45 in Khargone and 11 in Sendhwa ), 25 in Delhi, 08 in Assam , and 03 in Uttar Pradesh ( 01 in Prayagraj and 02 in Saharanpur), the Amnesty said. "In each of the five states, eyewitnesses and survivors vividly narrated how an atmosphere of fear and intimidation was created by the excessive and disproportionate deployment of police force. Most survivors did not dare to approach the authorities to ask any questions", the Amnesty said. "This must be viewed in the broader context of systemic discrimination faced by Muslims in the criminal justice system in India, where they are often victims of ill-treatment by the police and other law enforcement officials, and their complaints are seldom investigated. This has resulted in a grave trust deficit and fear of law enforcement officials throughout the community", it said. In all five states, Amnesty International found that targeted demolitions and forced evictions were used by the state authorities as a form of extrajudicial and collective and arbitrary punishment and retaliation against Muslims speaking against injustices and discrimination they were facing, the Amnesty said. 'Hindu religious processions' In its report the Amnesty International also observed that the communal clashes that were later used as reasons for the punitive actions against Muslims occurred when Hindus took religious processions in Muslim dominated areas playing loud provocative music. On 10 and 15 April 2022 respectively, communal violence between Hindus and Muslims was reported in Khargone and Sendhwa towns in Madhya Pradesh, Himmatnagar and Khambhat towns in Gujarat and Jahangirpuri area of Delhi. This included arson, vandalism of mosques, looting of businesses and homes, the Amnesty International noted in its report. This (violence) occurred after Hindus carried out religious processions commemorating the Hindu festivals of Ram Navami and Hanuman Jayanti which coincided with the period of Ramzan, the holy month of fasting for Muslims before Eid-Ul-Fitr. The Hindu rallies started from Muslim-populated areas and loud provocative music was played by the Hindu participants. In all three states, this resulted in violence between Hindus and Muslims in the areas where the processions were carried out, the Amnesty International said. Of the 63 demolitions Amnesty International investigated, 20 properties were owned or rented by people who were either prosecuted for the preceding violence or protests or were related to such people. In all five states, Amnesty International found that targeted demolitions and forced evictions were used by the state authorities as a form of extrajudicial and collective and arbitrary punishment and retaliation against Muslims speaking against injustices and discrimination they were facing, the Amnesty International said. Calling the Bulldozer Injustice violation of the International Humanitarian Laws, the Amnesty International urged the Narendra Modi government to give it a stop. The unlawful demolition of Muslim properties by the Indian authorities, peddled as bulldozer justice by political leaders and media, is cruel and appalling. Such displacement and dispossession is deeply unjust, unlawful and discriminatory. They are destroying families and must stop immediately, Agnes Callamard, Amnesty Internationals Secretary General said. The Amnesty in another report titled Unearthing Accountability: JCBs Role and Responsibility in Bulldozer Injustice in India released simultaneously also held the British bulldozer manufacturer responsible and asked it to keep a check on misuse of their products. JCB has a responsibility to respect human rights including by conducting due diligence to identify, prevent and mitigate adverse human rights impacts that are directly linked to its operations, products or services across its value chain, the Amnesty said. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. Welcome Guest! You are here: Home Hajj 2024 Hajj 2024: Last Date to Pay Advance Haj Amount Extended The Haj Committee of India (HCoI) has extended the last date to pay Advance Hajj Amount till February 15, 2024. Read More Friday February 9, 2024 6:59 PM , ummid.com News Network Haj 2024 Payment: The Haj Committee of India (HCoI) has extended the last date to pay Advance Hajj Amount till February 15, 2024. According to the HCoI circular, the last date of Advance Haj payment was Feb 09, 2024. The Haj Committee of India in a notification released today announced the extension of the last date of payment. "Representations and requests being received from State Haj Committees, various organisations and individuals to extend the date for depositing the Advance Haj amount. In view of this, the last date for depositing the Advance Haj Amount is now hereby extended up to 23:59 hours of 15.02.2024", the Haj Committee of India said. The Haj Committee of India had earlier asked all Hajj pilgrims who were provisionally selected after the Haj 2024 Qurrah - draw of lots, held by Digital Random Selection Process to deposit Rs.81,800/- as Advance Haj Amount and submit the pay-in-slip along with original passport and photographs on or before February 09, 2024. All provisionally selected pilgrims are required to deposit Advance Haj Amount of Rs.81,800/- each. A unique Bank Reference Number provided to each cover must be mentioned in the Remittance Receipt", the Haj Committee of India said. "The amount includes the non-refundable processing fee Rs.300/-, Advance Haj Amount Rs. 80,000/- and Miscellaneous Dues Rs. 1,500/-", it said. The Haj Committee of India however did not give details of the 'miscellaneous dues'. The Haj Committee of India further said that other instalments will be decided taking into consideration the finalization of Airfare amount and expenses in Saudi Arabia. The same will be intimated soon, the Haj Committee said. The pilgrims who have been selected by computerised draw should note that their selection will be cancelled if they fail to deposit the amount before the due date. After depositing the amount of Rs.81,800/-, the provisionally selected pilgrims shall submit a copy of the pay-in-slip, medical certificate along with original passport and one photograph to their respective state Haj committees on or before February 09, 2024, failing which their Haj seat will be cancelled", the Central Haj Committee said. Steps to make Haj 2024 Advance Amount Payments can be made either: 1. Online Mode through Haj Committee of India website here: hajcommittee.gov.in. . 2. Directly to Haj Committee of India account No. 35398104789 maintained with SBI; or account No. 318702010406010 (Haj Account) maintained with Union Bank of India through any branch of SBl/UBI having core Banking System. 3. By cheque of any branch of SBI/UBI in the respective Bank. 4. Pilgrims can also make payment using Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking or UPI How to check Unique Bank Reference Number Selected pilgrims whose names figured in the final list drawn after the Qurrah can check Unique Bank Reference Number by following the steps given below: 1. Go to Haj Committee of India website by clicking here: hajcommittee.gov.in. 2. Enter your Cover No in the box. Your Cover No should start with your state code. 3. Click on the Down Arraow from 'Select State' menu and select your state. 4. Enter Passport No in the box. 5. Click on "Load" button. 6. All relevant details along with Unique Bank Reference Number will appear on the computer or mobile phone screen. After depositing the Advance amount the Provisionally Selected pilgrims shall submit: 1. A copy of the pay-in-slip 2. Solemn declaration and undertaking 3. Haj Application Form (HAF) 4. Medical fitness and screening certificate as per the format available on the Haj Committee of India website 5. Original International Machine Readable Passports Hajj 2024 Flight Schedule The Haj Committee of India (HCoI) had earlier also released Haj policy 2024 (Action Plan for Hajj 2024), listing a total of 25 embarkation points namely: Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Srinagar, Ranchi, Gaya, Guwahati, Indore, Bhopal, Mangalore, Goa, Aurangabad, Varanasi, Jaipur, Nagpur, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Cochin, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Kannur, Vijayawada, Agartala and Calicut. According to Hajj 2024 Action Plan, the first Hajj flight from India will be on May 05, 2024. The Last Hajj departure flight will be on June 10, 2024. Core Hajj duration will be from June 14 to 19, 2024. First return Hajj flight from Saudi Arabia to India will be on June 20, 2024 and the last inbound and return flight will be on July 21, 2024. Detailed Hajj flight schedule (embarkation point wise) will be published soon. The Haj Committee of India had started receiving through its website hajcommittee.gov.in from December 04, 2023 Hajj Application Form (HAF) of the pilgrims who wished to embark on Hajj 2024 (Haj 1445 AH). The last date of application was originally fixed as December 20, 2023. It was however extended till January 15, 2024, and then till 12:00 pm on January 16, 2024 in the last minute because of technical glitches in the computer server. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. Welcome Guest! You are here: Home Pakistan Election Result 2024 Pakistan: Nawaz Sharif loses in Mansehra, Mysteriously wins in Lahore Former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif contested the 2024 National Election from 02 constituencies in Mansehra he lost but he has been mysteriously declared winner from Lahore. Read More Saturday February 10, 2024 2:26 AM , ummid.com News Network Islamabad: Former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif contested the 2024 National Election from 02 constituencies in Mansehra he lost but he has been mysteriously declared winner from Lahore. Local media reports said, Nawaz Sharif lost the 2024 National Assembly Elections from Mansehra-cum-Torghar (NA-15) seat to Shehzada Muhammad Ghustab Khan - Independent candidate backed by Imran Khans PTI. Reports citing vote count data released by the Election Commission of Pakistan said that Nawaz Sharif was trailing behind Dr. Yasmin Rashid - an Independent candidate backed by Pakistan Tehreek e Insaf (PTI) in Lahore (NA-130 seat). Dr Yasmeens lead over Nawaz Sharif surged with every counting rounds. Suddenly, the Election Commission stopped updating the vote count result, local reporters and PTI workers alleged. Discrepancies in Form 47 Later, the election commission announced Nawaz Sharif the winner from the Lahore National Assembly seat. However, the Form-47 released by the Returning Officer raised serious questions over the victory of Nawaz Sharif. The Form-47 gives details of registered votes, votes polled and number of votes secures by the candidates in the fray. The PTI workers and local media reports highlighting discrepancies in the Form 47 said it showed total polled votes in NA-130 seat as 293,693 whereas the valid votes shown are 294,043. Valid votes are 350 more than the polled votes. How is it possible, TC anchors are asking. Moreover, the Form 47 said 650 votes were found invalid and were not counted. 'Other discrepancy' The other discrepancy highlighted in the vote result is zero votes polled by other candidates in the fray who besides independents also included Jamat e Ismali, Pakistan Peoples Party, Jamiat Ulemae Pakistan and other parties. It means the Independents and the candidates from other parties did not vote for even themselves, PTI said. Following the widespread allegations of rigging in favour of Nawaz Sharif, the Election Commission of Pakistan removed the Form 46 from its website. It later published an updated details. The PTI however is considering to challenge the Lahore election result. Not only in Lahore, the PTI is alleging widespread rigging and manipulations in other constituencies. The party says in at least 50 seats, the election results that were going in the PTI and party backed candidates were rigged and reversed. Social media is also flooded with videos showing alleged rigging in the elections and questioning the fair elections. In more than one case, some PTI candidates have already approached the court challenging the result. The PTI workers have also taken to the streets in different parts of the country to protest against the alleged rigging. Overall Results Meanwhile, the Pakistan Election Commission is also facing the wrath of the people for not declaring the final result even after more than 24 hours. As per the media reports and unofficial results and projections by the respective parties, Independents backed by Imran Khans PTI have won / leading in 96 seats, Nawaz Sharifs PML-N is ahead on 70 seats, Asif Zardaris PPP is leading in 53 seats and MQM-P on 15 seats. The 2024 National Elections are a huge setback for Maulana Fazlur Rehmans Jamiat Ulama e Islam (JUIF).The party is leading on just 02 seats. Making worst for it voters have rejected Maulana Fazlur Rehman also who lost his seat (NA-265 Pishin) to Ali Amin Gandapu of PTI. Polling for the 265 National Assembly seats in Pakistan were held on Thursday February 08, 2024. The elections have been tough for Imran Khan as he was in jail and a number of PTI candidates were forced to contest as independent. The PTI was also snatched of its party symbol and the party candidates were assigned ridiculous symbols in many cases. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. Welcome Guest! You are here: Home India Violence after Madrasa, Mosque razed in Haldwani (Uttarakhand), 6 dead The Haldwani administration has ordered shoot-at-sight order following the violent clashes between police and local residents. Read More Friday February 9, 2024 5:51 PM , ummid.com with inputs from Agencies Dehradun: At least six people, including a minor, have been killed in Banbhoolpura area of Haldwani, Uttarakhand in the violence that erupted after officials in demolition drive against illegal encroachment Thursday February 08, 2024 razed a Madrasa and adjacent Mosque. The Haldwani administration has ordered shoot-at-sight order following the violent clashes between police and local residents. Watch Video Violence first erupted after local administration deployed bulldozers to raze the mosque and madrasa, which were allegedly built on Nazool land, according to The Indian Express. As the demolitions began, angry residents, including women, in large numbers descended on the streets to protest the action, according to India Today. Local resients however said situation went out of control after Police misbehaved with Muslim women protesting against the demolition drive. Watch Video #Haldwani: Policemen misbehaved and dragged protesting Muslim women in #Haldwani after which the situation escalated. Will the media show this visuals? pic.twitter.com/cAm3r2BcRV Saba Khan (@ItsKhan_Saba) February 9, 2024 Over 250 people, including security personnel, have been injured and taken for medical treatment. The deceased have been identified as Jaani and his son Anas (Ghafoor Basti), 16-year-old Aaris (Ghafoor Basti), Fahim (Gandhinagar), Israar and Siwan both from Banbhulpura. A number of vehicles and a police station were set on fire following the clashes. 'Not an isloated indent' Senior Superintendent of Police Prahlad Meena told news agency PTI the Madrasa and the Mosque were "built on illegally encroached government land" and the demolitions were carried out in the heavy presence of police and Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) personnel in compliance with a court order. Talking to media DM Nainital, Vandana Singh, said the demolition of the Madrasa and the adjacent Mosque was not an isolated incident. "The demolition drive was carried following the order given by the High Court. Notices were also been issued against the illegal encroachment. The demolition of the madrasa was not an isolated incident", she told reporters. Loal residents however alleged that the Madrasa and the adjacent Masjid were demolished despite a stay order by the court. Haldwani was in news in January last year after the administration planned a massive demolition drive to clear what it called 'illegally encroached government land'. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. Arunachal, NE witnessed sea change in last 9 years under Modi regime: Khandu Itanagar, Feb 9 (UNI) Arunachal Pradesh and the North East, along with other parts of the country, witnessed a sea change on the developmental front in the last nine years ever since Narendra Modi became Prime Minister, with the Centre focusing on Arunachal, which shares international boundaries with Tibet, China, Myanmar, and Bhutan, Chief Minister Pema Khandu said on Friday. The Central Government, under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi, decided to strengthen the border areas in Arunachal Pradesh as well as those living on the borders through the flagship Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP), under which lots of projects have already been sanctioned, Khandu informed the Assembly. The VVP was launched by Union Home Minister Amit Shah at Kibithoo in Anjaw district last year. Under this programme, 455 border villages in 11 districts have been identified as being covered in its first phase. BANGKOK, THAILAND - Media OutReach Newswire - 9 February 2024 - King Power marks the beginning of the new year with festivities heralding a fresh start. The travel-retail giant unveils a spectacle commemorating the grandeur of the Chinese New Year, ushering in the auspicious Year of the Dragon, and bringing everyone into a joyous celebration of new beginnings through the event:."Embarking on a journey towards good fortunes as part of the celebration for the Year of the Dragon through the '' concept centered around the theme of '.' Embrace the potent energy of the dragon that radiates only positive vibes of good fortune, prosperity, happiness, auspiciousness, and fulfillment for both Thai and international visitors. This event serves as a unifying platform for everyone to gather together to take delight in delectable feasts, seek blessings, enhance personal fortunes, and revel in live concerts featuring renowned artists, along with selected special promotions.The press conference and opening ceremony took place on 6-February 2024, at 5:00 p.m., right at Fountain Square within King Power Rangnam. Attendees were treated to an extraordinary experience as they witnessed the first grand dragon dance procession along Rangnam Road. The event was graced by the presence of Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, who presided over the opening ceremony. Joining him in this occasion was Thapanee Kiatphaibool, the Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)., stated, "This year's Chinese New Year celebration event marks our glorious return to hosting a grand celebration. It further solidifies King Power's role as a vital destination, extending a warm welcome to customers and tourists, both Thai and international. Our vision is to collaboratively promote Thai tourism and transform the Rangnam area into a new tourist destination within Bangkok. Therefore, King Power seized the opportunity to commemorate the Chinese New Year Festival, with the aim of inspiring both Thai and foreign tourists to immerse themselves in the Thai-Chinese culture and traditions while savoring the delectable offerings of Thai cuisine. This initiative is geared towards establishing a new travel destination, ensuring Thailand remains 'top of mind' for tourists from around the world. The activity we witness today represents just the beginning of King Power's efforts to foster growth in the Rangnam area, with ongoing plans to foster community development and bolster tourism for Bangkok in the years ahead."The 18-day event kicked off with a series of activities dedicated to worshipping the gods, witness the grandeur of five dragon parades, elegantly striding along the entire Rangnam Road. Leading the procession will be admired artists, including, and. On 10 February 2024, be captivated by the show led by, accompanied by a special performance by. On 11 February 2024, immerse in the excitement withand indulge in the most spectacular live shows, featuring musical performances and a myriad of captivating acts from China.During the event, everyone will have the opportunity to savor "." Discover delectable dishes from more than 50 legendary and Michelin Guide-endorsed eateries, including, and many more. from 1-18 February, 2024Throughout the event, King Power remains committed to spreading happiness and offers everyone a chance to win through the "" promotion. This promotion is designed to bring threefold of good fortunes, promising a wealth of endless happiness to all participants.grants 2 red discount envelopes worth a total of 8,000 Baht.provides a chance to explore the mystical land of dragons, including the World Heritage City of Lijiang and Shangri-La, with the added adventure of conquering the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Shoppers receive a coupon for immediate prize potential with every 8,000 Baht spent.offers the possibility of winning a 1-Baht golden dragon through the Dragon Hunter collection activity. There's an exclusive deal for the newly enrolled King Power SCARLET members. Upon signing up, you'll receive a complimentary salung of gold when you make a purchase of 80,000 Baht on the same day.Hashtag: #KingPower The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. HA NOI Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on Thursday visited medical workers and patients at the Viet Nam-Germany Friendship Hospital and the Central Pediatrics Hospital in Ha Noi, ahead of the Lunar New Year (Tet) festival. He spoke highly of the devotion by the medical workers who are on duty when the family reunion festival is just around the corner, and spoke highly of the important contributions in the recent past by the health sector, especially in the COVID-19 fight. The leader expressed his hope that the workers will continue improving their expertise, ethics, scientific research, and human resources training. On this occasion, he asked authorities and relevant forces to intensify their control of the use and transport of fire crackers as well as the use of alcoholic drink while commuting, and to ensure food hygiene and safety so as to limit accidents. The same day, he offered incense to late Prime Minister Pham Van ong. PM Chinh expressed his profound respect to the late leader a staunch revolutionary and one of the key leaders of the revolution in Viet Nam who greatly contributed to the struggle for national liberation, construction and defence. VNA/VNS NEW YORK The Permanent Mission of Viet Nam to the United Nations (UN) hosted a meeting with Vietnamese experts working for UN agencies in New York on Thursday on the occasion of the Lunar New Year (Tet) - the the biggest festival of Viet Nam. In his speech, Ambassador ang Hoang Giang, head of the mission, showed his appreciation for the contributions by Vietnamese experts to the UNs activities in general, as well as for their companionship and cooperation with the mission in many fronts in recent times. The diplomat emphasised that in the context of many difficulties and challenges in the world, Viet Nam's foreign affairs work, including multilateral diplomacy and international integration, continues to be a bright spot, actively contributing to increasing Viet Nam's reputation and position in the international arena. He expressed his hope that Vietnamese experts, no matter what position they hold, will also continue to well perform their role of representing Vietnamese intelligence and identity at the UN, while maintaining close connection and coordination with the mission, especially in effectively implementing UN programmes and projects, realising sustainable development goals, as well as in community and public affairs with the host country. Vietnamese experts affirmed that they will always accompany and support the mission in completing all assigned tasks. There are currently about 20 Vietnamese experts working for UN agencies such as the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF), the UN Development Program (UNDP), the UN Population Fund (UNFPA), and the Secretariat of the UN. VNS HA NOI Chinese Ambassador to Viet Nam Xiong Bo has highlighted the positive development trend with numerous outcomes of the Viet Nam-China relationship in recent years and the measures to boost bilateral cooperation in various fields, in an interview granted to the Vietnam News Agency on the threshold of the Year of the Dragon. The Viet Nam-China ties have gone through a 74-year development journey since the two countries officially established diplomatic relations. What are the highlights in the relations between the two countries? How do you evaluate the prospect of bilateral relations, especially after the state visit to Viet Nam by Chinese General Secretary and President Xi Jinping? The most notable highlight in the China-Viet Nam relationship in recent times was the state visit to Viet Nam by Chinese Party General Secretary and President Xi Jinping at the invitation of General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong. This marks the most significant event in the relations between the two Parties and countries. With mutual efforts from the two sides, the visit was a success. The most crucial political outcome was the joint declaration by the top leaders of both Parties on building a Viet Nam-China community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, helping determine a new position in China-Viet Nam relations and opening up a new chapter in the China - Viet Nam comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership. It can be said that this event is a historical turning point in the relationship between the two Parties and two countries, undoubtedly having a deep impact on the development of the China-Viet Nam relationship from now on. Regarding the building of a Viet Nam-China community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, the two sides concurred that its core significance lies in their joint commitment to bringing happiness to the two peoples, and development for both countries and progress for the whole mankind. The community reflects not only the elevation of the bilateral relations but also the noble international spirit of both Parties. China and Viet Nam should intensify cooperation and contribute their efforts to addressing common challenges facing the international community. For the development of bilateral relations, the visit set the development goal with the six targets of stronger political trust, more substantial defence-security cooperation, deeper tangible collaboration, firmer social foundation, closer multilateral coordination, and better management and settlement of differences. The targets have comprehensive connotations, clearly defining the development direction for the China-Viet Nam relations in all aspects. I believe that after this visit, the China-Viet Nam relations will undoubtedly enter a new development phase, with substantive cooperation between the two countries in various fields being improved, upgraded, and further strengthened. Over the past few months, trade activities between Viet Nam and China have been vibrant and favourable with the reopening and upgrade of several border gates. What should both countries do in the coming time to make the development of the Viet Nam China economic, trade, and investment relations to continue developing robustly and sustainably? We are delighted to see that, after the pandemic prevention efforts entered a new phase, China and Viet Nam have fully resumed their regular economic and trade cooperation. Many border gates between the two countries have been resumed operation and upgraded. Some border gates were upgraded into international ones, facilitating the travel between the nations. The economic, trade, and investment cooperation between China and Viet Nam has entered a new stage with a more vibrant development trend. According to Chinas latest statistics, the China-Viet Nam trade turnover in 2023 reached nearly US$230 billion ($229.8 billion). Viet Nam's exports to China amounted to $92.18 billion, marking a 4.8 per cent increase. China is one of the few export markets of Viet Nam that maintains positive growth, proving the importance of the Chinese market as well as that of the China-Viet Nam cooperative relations. China is a market with immense potential. Viet Nam's agricultural exports to China maintain considerable growth, especially fruits and vegetables. The export revenue of Vietnamese fruits and vegetables to China has seen rapid growth, notably in the export of durians. Viet Nam earned over $2 billion from exporting durians to China in 2023, surpassing the set target of $1 billion. Chinas investment in Viet Nam in the year surged by 77.6 per cent to $4.47 billion. This indicates a significant interest from Chinese companies in the Vietnamese market and its development potential. I believe that this trend will continue in the coming time. For instance, recently, I noticed several Chinese companies operating in the solar energy industry have plans to increase their investments in Viet Nam. Some businesses have entered the second phase and are planning to build the third. All these indicate promising prospects for economic, trade, and investment cooperation between China and Viet Nam. I am confident that substantial collaboration between the two countries will further develop. In the time to come, we need to sustain this momentum. Firstly, it is necessary to continue and intensify the policy exchanges, with the high-level strategic exchange between leaders of the two countries being the most important. In 2024, the two nations will continue high-level visits in both the channel of the China Viet Nam Steering Committee for Bilateral Cooperation and within the Belt and Road Initiative and the Two corridors, One belt framework. The two sides have signed a connectivity plan, and will push for its implementation this year. The two countries are focusing on promoting the comprehensive connection of road, sea, and air networks, and internet connection. In particular, the two sides attach great importance to the acceleration of the railway infrastructure connection and bring into full play the geographical advantages of land and sea contiguity of China and Viet Nam. China will actively support Viet Namin speeding up the construction of the Lao Cai Ha Noi Hai Phong standard-gauge railway and conducting feasibility studies, and assist Viet Nam in planning the ong ang - Ha Noi and Mong Cai - Ha Long - Hai Phong railway lines. For the construction of other railway lines in Viet Nam, China is also willing to actively cooperate and provide support in line with Viet Nam's demands. China actively supports Viet Nam in accelerating its industrialisation and modernisation, and in realising development goals set by the 13th National Congress of the Communist Party of Viet Nam (CPV); encourages Chinese enterprises with strength, expertise, and capability which are interested in investing into Vietnam, especially in digital economy, green development, energy transition, information and communication, agricultural development, and mineral exploitation cooperation. Furthermore, we are ready to strengthen cooperation with Viet Nam in the field of new energy vehicle (NEV), and assist Viet Nam in releasing its net-zero emissions goal by 2050. Recently, a young artist from Viet Nam participated in a television game show in China, garnering positive attention, and a well-known Vietnamese coffee brand has also increased its presence in China. These activities, to some extent, have help contribute to promoting people-to-people exchanges between the two countries. Could you please say more about specific measures to increase people-to-people exchange activities and youth exchanges between the two nations? Mutual understanding and cultural exchanges between the two peoples form an indispensable foundation for the development of China-Viet Nam relations. To realise this objective, first of all we need to further strengthen objective and genuine mutual understanding. To do so, we need to enhance direct people-to-people exchanges and encourage more Chinese tourists to visit Viet Nam and vice versa, and increase the number of Vietnamese young people studying and living in China. In the past, the two Parties and peoples stood side by side, supporting each other throughout the years of war, as well as in the struggles for national independence and liberation. This both comrades and brothers friendship tradition needs to be carried forward by the younger generations of both nations. Under the leadership of the two Parties, Viet Nam and China are building socialism suitable to each country's conditions, advancing the building of a distinctive path to modernisation of each country. China has achieved remarkable successes, capturing global attention and becoming the world's second-largest economy. Vietnam has also attained significant accomplishments too, maintaining stable and rapid economic development. It is crucial for the people of both countries to understand this, and this is also part of the mutual understanding. Thirdly, to strengthen people-to-people connectivity. Culture, art, cinematographic products, music, and tourism, etc., also serve as effective channels to further intensify mutual understanding. With the joint efforts of 12 countries, including Viet Nam and China, the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly for the first time passed a resolution officially designating the Lunar New Year as an annual UN holiday. How do you evaluate the event? The Lunar New Year is a common traditional festival for the people of China and Viet Nam. Besides China and Viet Nam, the festival is also a significant occasion for many countries around the world, representing an important factor of the oriental culture. The United Nations General Assemblys recognition is a matter of course, and I am pleased about it. On this occasion, through the Vietnam News Agency, I would like to extend my best New Year greetings to the Vietnamese people. I wish that Viet Nam, under the resolute leadership of the CPV Central Committee led by General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, will gain new achievements in realising the goals set forth by the 13th National Congress of the CPV, and in continuing to push up the socio-economic development across every sector. I wish Viet Nam peace, prosperity, well-being and happiness. VNA/VNS HA NOI Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh visited offices of major media agencies in Ha Noi on Friday, the last day of the lunar year (February 9). Visiting the Vietnam News Agency (VNA), he hailed the working attitude of VNA officials, reporters, and editors across the country and abroad who provide information to the Party, State, and people in a timely manner. The Government leader reminded them to ensure smooth information connection between the VNA and international news agencies during Tet, as well as connectivity with VNA reporters to update audiences with Tet atmosphere across the country. PM Chinh asked the VNA to focus on digital transformation, while paying due attention to infrastructure system upgrading and human resources training, and effectively and creatively building diverse information supply channels to better serve audiences inside and outside the country. He underscored the need for the VNA to provide the world with better understanding of Viet Nam and the country's efforts to care for the people. It is necessary to maintain close coordination between domestic news and foreign service news to ensure full, honest, objective and selected news, creating a new atmosphere, new motivations, and new successes for the country. As the national news agency with time-honoured tradition, the VNA should promote its tradition and continue to complete all of its assigned tasks, he requested. Visiting Radio The Voice of Vietnam (VOV), PM Chinh asked it to popularise safety regulations during Tet, ensuring all people enjoy a happy, safe, and healthy festival. The VOV has allocated about 250 reporters and staff to work during Tet. He requested the VOV television channel to report the spirit of protecting national sovereignty, territorial integrity, national seas and islands, as well as Tet atmosphere of the people. Particularly, it should help educate people on traffic regulations as well as other laws, he said. Inspecting the on-duty situation at the Vietnam Television (VTV), PM Chinh hailed the serious working atmosphere of VTV leaders and staff to ensure the operations of all channels. The VTV should be highly aware of its important role and invest more in its programmes to better serve audiences and contribute to promoting national development, he said and reminded it to speed up digital transformation and invest more in human resources development. During Tet festival, the VTV should provide the mass with safety guidance to ensure a healthy and warm Tet for all. On the occasion, PM Chinh presented gifts and extended New Year wishes to officials, reporters, and editors of the three establishments who are working on the last day of the year. VNA/VNS BUENO AIRES Vietnamese Ambassador to Peru Bui Van Nghi has presented a copy of his credentials to Director-General of Protocol and State Ceremony at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Peru Jaime Cacho-Sousa Velazquez who underlined that Viet Nam is the number one partner of his country in ASEAN. Cacho-Sousa highly valued the efficiency of Vietnamese-funded projects in Peru, especially Bitel telecommunications company which is invested by Viettel and providing services to rural and border areas of Peru. He said he hopes the two countries will consider a cooperation agreement in the field of telecommunications to expand service coverage in far-flung areas of Peru, helping poor children access technologies for studying. The Peruvian official thanked Viet Nam for supporting Peru to host the APEC Economic Leaders Week in 2024, affirming that Peru hopes to welcome Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong during the event. Ambassador Nghi conveyed President Thuong's regards and invitation to Peruvian President Dina Boluarte to visit Viet Nam. The two sides agreed to coordinate closely in organising activities to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Viet Nam-Peru diplomatic relations, while cooperating in strengthening two-way trade as well as partnership in new areas such as tourism, education, and technology, and fostering coordination at multilateral forums such APEC and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). At a working session with Ambassador Javier Augusto Prado, Director of the Asia-Pacific Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Peru, in Lima on February 8, Ambassador Nghi highlighted progress of relations between the two countries in economy, trade and investment, as well as prospects for bilateral ties when both sides become full members of the CPTPP. Viet Nam has supplied Peru with footwear, clinker and cement, computers, electronics and components, plastics, yarn, rubber, aquatic products, and interior products, while importing fishmeal, fish oil, acrylic fibers, and materials from Peru. The Vietnamese diplomat asked Peru to continue creating favourable conditions for projects of Viettel and Petrovietnam in the country, and Augusto Prado pledged to create optimal conditions for businesses of the two sides to exploit economic cooperation potential between the two countries. Currently, Peru is the sixth largest trade partner of Viet Nam in Latin America. VNS HA NOI The Vietnamese science and technology sector saw many memorable highlights in 2023, notably an increase in the Global Innovation Index. Viet Nam has joined the race to develop global semiconductor technology, had the first scientist to win the VinFuture award, and seen an explosion of AI with the Vietnamese desire to localise ChatGPT. In October 2023, the Global Innovation Index report announced that Viet Nam increased two places, from 48th to 46th, out of 132 countries and economies. Viet Nam is second in the group of lower middle-income countries, only behind India. The Global Innovation Index takes the pulse of innovation against a background of an economic and geopolitical environment fraught with uncertainty. It reveals the most innovative economies in the world, ranking the innovation performance of 132 economies while highlighting innovation strengths and weaknesses. Envisioned to capture as complete a picture of innovation as possible, the index comprises around 80 indicators, including measures on the political environment, education, infrastructure and knowledge creation of each economy. Viet Nam's ranking increase was recorded in the input index, consisting of human resources and research; infrastructure; market development level and business development level. For the output index, there are two pillars: technology products and creative products. Minister of Science and Technology Huynh Thanh at said that Viet Nam's innovation start-up ecosystem was on a positive development trend. The country has 20 local innovation support centres, more than 1,400 organisations capable of supporting start-ups, and more than 170 universities organising start-up activities. Also, in October 2023, the National Innovation Centre was put into operation to promote rapid, sustainable growth based on science, technology and innovation. Semiconductor race 2023 also marks Viet Nam's step forward in the semiconductor chip industry. Firstly, the new operating facility of the National Innovation Centre was put into use to gather, lead, connect and perfect the national innovation ecosystem. The US President Joe Biden's visit to Viet Nam in September promised to launch human resource development initiatives in the semiconductor sector for Viet Nam. During Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh's visit to the US in September, several agreements were also signed with major US semiconductor companies to build research and personnel training centres in Viet Nam. In addition to Intel, Amkor and Hana Micro also announced investments of $1.6 and $1 billion, respectively, in chip production in Viet Nam. In the sci-tech sector, Viettel Group successfully deployed the worlds first 5G transceiver station, following Open RAN standards. Viettel is also the first partner in the world to deploy Qualcomm products into the network with real users, downloading real data. This is a breakthrough not only in Viet Nam but also in the world because it only took Viettel eight months from the time Viettel and Qualcomm announced strategic cooperation on 5G to the success of the real network. First Vietnamese wins VinFuture award Professor Vo Tong Xuan, 83, of Nam Can Tho University became the first Vietnamese scientist to be named at the VinFuture Award last year. The VinFuture Award was initiated in 2020 and is awarded annually to breakthrough scientific and technological inventions that have the potential to create meaningful change. Xuan, along with Professor Gurdev Singh Khush - an Indian-American scientist, was honoured by the VinFuture Special Prize 2023 for scientists from developing countries with a prize of $500,000. The two scientists were honoured for researching and disseminating disease-resistant rice varieties, contributing to ensuring global food security. Xuan is considered the "father" of many delicious rice varieties of the Mekong Delta. He also specialises in supporting food security issues for countries in the region. During the agricultural revolution, he played an important role in disseminating the IR36 rice variety in areas that were frequently attacked by pests in the Mekong Delta and collaborating with local farmers to apply advanced transplant techniques. Also in December 2023, Research.com, a reputable electronic information portal for world scientists, announced the ranking of rising scientific stars in the world. Among the list, there were five Vietnamese scientists: Tran Xuan Bach (Ha Noi Medical University, ranked second in the world); Tran Nguyen Hai (Duy Tan University, ranked 603rd), Thai Hoang Chien (Ton uc Thang University, 621st), Phung Van Phuc (Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology, 762nd) and Hoang Nhat uc (Duy Tan University, 968th). In this ranking, Research.com reviewed data from 166,880 scientists, with the world's leading publication and citation productivity, using data from Google Scholar and Microsoft Academic Graph. Localising ChatGPT ChatGPT developed the Generative AI fever in Viet Nam. Since the beginning of 2023, although OpenAI has not deployed the chatbot in Viet Nam, many Vietnamese people were willing to spend hundreds of thousands of ong to buy accounts and use virtual IPs to experience it. Before the wave of applications and popularity of the chatbot, local universities and the Ministry of Education and Training organised dozens of seminars to discuss how to respond to the AI fever. Besides this, applications that turn selfies into avatars like Remini, or Loopsie's anime-style photos continuously surpassed social media platforms to top the list of most downloaded applications in Viet Nam on the App Store. In early December, VinAI introduced the PhoGPT model with 7.5 billion parameters. According to the VinAIs representative, the project aims to develop models similar to ChatGPT for Vietnamese language and Vietnamese culture. PhoGPT can read and write following Vietnamese style. The model is also trained at the beginning with the Vietnamese data set, and it is independent of other models in the world. Continuing its success, VinAI continues to launch the Vietnamese version of ViGPT software technology for end users and businesses, focusing on Vietnamese content. ViGPT application focuses on content such as law, history, culture, landscapes and regional characteristics. Users can get the limited experience version of ViGPT, using Vietnamese on the website, similar to ChatGPT. Along with the end-user version, ViGPT will launch an enterprise version, integrated into the multi-cognitive AI platform VinBase 2.0. It expects the application to contribute to changing operating habits and increasing business efficiency, marketing, customer service, and risk management for businesses. Viet Nam also prompted cooperation with many top scientists and entrepreneurs in global AI, such as Professor Andrew Ng, founder and CEO of Landing AI, and Jensen Huang, CEO of Nvidia. During his visit in early December, Jensen Huang said that Viet Nam had all the ingredients to grow AI, including data, infrastructure and abundant IT human resources. "This is Viet Nam's opportunity. If Viet Nam can ride the wave of AI, the country will grow, prosper, and get opportunities. I believe Viet Nam can do this," he said. VNS The socioeconomic development strategy from 2021-2030 focuses on training high-quality human resources, as well as outstanding policies to attract talent and experts both at home and abroad. It aims to build a team of leaders, managers, and civil servants with good qualities, professionalism, and dedication. Le Van Thanh, deputy minister of Labour, Invalids, and Social Affairs Implementing the Party and governments policies, ministries and sectors have issued many policies to engage talent, including policies to entice excellent graduates and faculty staff. In the last three years, a series of development strategies, focusing on developing high-quality, have also been urgently developed and implemented to aid development. Vietnams programmes, projects, development strategies, and quality have now made certain progress. Total factor productivity in 2022 contributed 43.8 per cent to GDP growth. Vietnam has reached regional and international levels in several industries and fields such as IT and health. Some corporations and businesses have proactively gone ahead and anticipated scientific and technological achievements. These units have mobilised and utilised highly qualified human resources to promote the process of modernising production, creating products that compete with corporations and businesses. However, overall, although the scale of Vietnams human resources is large, the quality is still limited. Vietnam is in a period of a golden population structure, with a labour force of 52.4 million people. However, it only has 28 per cent of the workforce with degrees and certificates, of which less than 15 per cent have college, university, or higher degrees and 13 per cent have intermediate or elementary degrees, and more than 65 per cent of workers are in the informal sector. The country still has a huge gap in high-quality labour in many industries and fields. For example, human resources in logistics currently only meet 40 per cent of demand. Most logistics businesses have difficulty recruiting management, operations, and coordinating personnel, and must hire personnel from abroad. The new digital industry can meet about 40-50 per cent of the annual need for high-quality labour. In the semiconductor industry alone, the whole country currently needs 10,000 engineers per year, but training meets less than 20 per cent of that. Meanwhile, the training capacity of schools to provide high-quality human resources in sectors in the economy every year is still extremely limited, not meeting the needs of the market. The proportion of untrained workers is large, the quality of training low, the industry structure not reasonable, and there is a lack of qualified, capable, and highly skilled workers, including leaders and managers. This situation is a major obstacle to improving the competitiveness of the economy through shifting from processing and assembly to design and creation, indirectly hindering Vietnams industrialisation, modernisation, and international integration. With the goal of making Vietnam a developed country with high income by 2045, building and promoting human resources will be a decisive factor. With that, the Ministry of Labour, Invalids, and Social Affairs (MoLISA) will focus on three key areas. Firstly, Vietnam currently does not have the conditions and ability to train and provide high-quality human resources for all industries and fields, so it is necessary to focus on those sectors planned to be key ones - especially the semiconductor chip manufacturing sector, as this sectors global production chain is tending to shift investment to emerging economies, including Vietnam. Next, we must create a favourable working environment for high-quality workers to contribute and develop. To achieve this, Vietnam must have a remuneration regime as well as a healthy, transparent working environment and a mechanism to honour and recognise high-quality labour. In addition, we must also continuously train and promptly appoint high-quality workers, both in the state apparatus and in businesses. At the same time, the state also needs to have appropriate policies and mechanisms for testing, evaluating, screening, selecting, and eliminating workers. These are the basic but most crucial factors to engaging todays high-quality workforce. It is also vital to continue to improve policies to attract high-quality human resources, including Vietnamese international students as well as overseas Vietnamese living abroad, to develop the country. Currently, Vietnam has about 80,000 international students studying in nearly 40 countries and territories around the world. In addition, there are about 600,000 overseas Vietnamese intellectuals with post-university degrees, living mainly in developed countries. This is a great resource for the countrys development, especially in innovation and technology transfer. For high-quality foreign workers, the MoLISA also strives to offer solutions and simplify work permit procedures to engage them to work in Vietnam. Decree No.70/2023/ND-CP stipulates the authority and responsibility of the MoLISA, and the department of labour, invalids, and social affairs of localities in implementing employing foreign workers approval; confirmation of not being subject to a work permit; and issuance, re-issuance, extension, and revocation of work permits. The above regulations also ensure proper implementation of a 2021 directive on attracting, managing, and effectively using foreign workers in Vietnam. Previously, Decree No.152/2020/ND-CP dated December 2020 did not specifically regulate the types of documents proving managers and executive directors, but Decree No.70/2023/ND-CP from September 2023 amending and supplementing a number of articles of Decree 152 specifically stipulated that documents proving that they are managers or CEOs include only three types of documents. These include charter of the company or operating regulations of agencies, organisations, or enterprises; business registration certificate or establishment certificate or other documents of equivalent legal value; and resolution or appointment decision of an agency, organisation, or enterprise. Thus, the aforementioned documents ensure convenience and reduce administrative procedures for businesses when carrying out work permit procedures because they do not have to prove professional qualifications or work experience. Pham Vu Quoc Binh, deputy director Directorate of Vocational Education and Training Vocational education is creating positive marks in the labour and employment market thanks to the process of international cooperation and changes in the scale, quality and effectiveness of training programmes. Last year was considered an extremely successful and productive one for vocational education, with all annual plans implemented. Enrolment reached about 2.3 million people, including 530,000 at college and intermediate level, and more than 1.76 million people at elementary level and other vocational training programmes. The Directorate of Vocational Education and Training (DVET) has advised the Ministry of Labour, Invalids, and Social Affairs to guide ministries, sectors, and localities to continue to arrange and reorganise public vocational education establishments according to planning. In international cooperation on vocational education, the DVET has continuously promoted and actively supported the entire vocational education system to innovate and develop in both breadth and depth, attracting many new potential partners interested in vocational education such as organisations under the United Nations and the European Union. The DVET aims to expand and improve the effectiveness of comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and other countries and international organisations in vocational education. It will also promote negotiations, signing, and implementation of cooperation agreements and programmes with international partners and foreign investment enterprises operating in Vietnam in supporting vocational education institutions, pupils and students to strengthen their professional skills. In addition, we also actively participate in regional and international competitions, organisations, forums, and associations on vocational education and host international vocational skills competitions. Especially in the context that Vietnam is an attractive destination attracting many foreign businesses, opportunities for internationalisation in vocational education are very promising. Support necessary to boost green human resources A vibrant and dynamic vocational education and training system is crucial to Vietnam meeting its socioeconomic development goals. Jen Bahen, education and research counsellor at the Australian Embassy in Vietnam, told VIRs Hoang Oanh about Australias support in vocational training and human resource building. Hai Phong ensures high-quality human resources for businesses The Hai Phong Economic Zone Authority (HEZA) has taken various solutions to improve the quality of human resources for businesses at industrial and economic parks in the northern port city. How does the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) ensure its many business meetings with the worlds largest delegations and corporations lead to agreements and cooperation? Nguyen Chi Dung, Minister of Planning and Investment Foreign investment promotion and mobilisation in 2023 made many positive changes, continuing to be a bright spot in Vietnams economic picture. Big organisations, associations, businesses, and foreign investors continue to appreciate our economic growth prospects and investment environment, as well as evaluate Vietnam as a potentially important link in the global supply chain. Vietnams international position is increasingly strengthened. The upgrade of relations with the United States and Japan to comprehensive strategic partnerships has created many new cooperative spaces and created motivation for business cooperation. On every trip, Party and state leaders met and spoke with many businesses to convey the message that accompanies and creates better conditions for foreign investors. The MPI advised and signed MoUs with the US on semiconductors, levelling up Vietnams role in the global semiconductor ecosystem. Many large-value cooperation agreements were inked between local and foreign businesses in 2023 and their deployment will bring substantive results and make important contributions to the implementation of the nations socioeconomic development goals. Numerous large corporations and businesses came to explore investment opportunities here. Among them, the US NVIDIA Corporation committed to making Vietnam the groups second homeland; Hana Micron from South Korea increased total funding to $1 billion; and the LG Innotech factory in the northern city of Haiphong expanded its project with an additional $1 billion. In 2023, Vietnam achieved decent results in attracting foreign investment. There has also been a significant improvement in the quality of projects, most of which are in processing and manufacturing, and using high technology in electronics, semiconductor production, supporting industries, and application of advanced technology. What challenges will Vietnam face in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) in the year ahead? Investors are looking to neighbouring countries to shorten their supply chains. Many markets such as South Korea, Japan, the US, and some EU members are trying to reduce foreign funding by cutting down corporate income taxes and raising local incentives. The currencies of South Korea and Japan are devalued by 20-25 per cent, affecting the overseas investment of these two largest partners. Multinational corporations are restructuring production chains and strictly considering new funding due to declining global growth prospects and high costs. Competition in investment mobilisation is getting fiercer. Regional countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia with better resources, tax reductions, or more support for foreign investors, enable Vietnam to further improve its institutions and level up its position on the map. Vietnams investment environment includes some difficulties for businesses. Administrative procedures such as land, construction, and fire prevention still have many inadequacies. Industries that need to be prioritised to create breakthrough development in Vietnam, such as high technologies, innovation, and energy do not have adequate mechanisms to engage investment. Despite some incentives, the results have not met expectations. The local shortage of labour and raw materials in some industries and localities has not been resolved, leading to the risk of local supply chain disruption in the short term. So the MPI has raised solutions to increase foreign investment attraction like reviewing and adjusting FDI policies following global trends, especially in greening the economy and transforming energy, green growth, and digital transformation. We will accelerate the reform of administrative procedures, especially related to land, construction, fire prevention, environment, and customs. We will research and develop breakthrough mechanisms related to finance, and build the Ho Chi Minh City and Danang finance centres project to make breakthroughs in socioeconomic development. Human resource training following the needs of businesses and trends of high technologies will be focused on. FDI mobilisation in high technologies, semiconductors, and innovation will be supported, providing the best conditions and encouraging businesses to deploy research and development activities and technology transfer. Additionally, we have the necessary conditions for infrastructure, clean land, energy, and human resources to attract large, and meaningful ventures. photo Duc Thanh How will the rollout of the global minimum tax (GMT) affect the countrys attractiveness of FDI? Vietnam will issue appropriate policies to effectively and flexibly adapt to the impact of GMT, ensure confidence, and maintain the attractiveness of the investment environment. When applying the GMT, Vietnam will have both opportunities and challenges during the call for FDI. We have already had the right to impose additional taxes on some foreign-invested enterprises in Vietnam and domestic corporations with investments abroad, to prevent tax flows to other countries and add more revenue to the state budget. This is a driving force to accelerate the process of transition and rollout of new policies, narrowing the policy gap between domestic law and international practices, and promoting the countrys development and integration process. It is also an opportunity to review and update incentive policies, thereby continuously improving the business environment. This contributes to the implementation of Vietnams tax reform strategy to 2030 which includes developing professional human resources and applying modern IT in the context of the digital economy. However, the application of the GMT will reduce the competitiveness of the business environment in Vietnam, and affect FDI mobilisation. It is quite difficult to lure large-scale initiatives, especially projects subject to special incentives. Retaining large investors and encouraging businesses to expand will be challenging if we do not promptly provide solutions. There are some limitations in attracting satellite businesses in the supply chain of large investors, especially those in the supporting industries and high technologies with an important contribution to the development of industries, improving the capacity of Vietnamese enterprises, and connecting to the worlds production value chain. The draft decree on an investment support fund from GMT revenue is being built and reviewed. What does this mean for FDI going forward? The decision to establish such a fund and synchronously improve policies and laws on promotion to meet the requirements of the new situation is necessary. The GMT is a fundamental change in the international tax structure, limiting profit shifting and tax competition of multinationals and going to the bottom of countries taxes. When the GMT rate is fixed at 15 per cent, the corporate income tax incentives in Vietnam will no longer be meaningful for businesses under Pillar 2 that their global consolidated revenue is higher than 750 million ($813.14 million), so Vietnam is no longer competitive in attracting and retaining these businesses. While developed countries are urgently applying this rule, developing countries are carefully considering how to both raise revenue and ensure attraction to lure investment through new incentives. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate all policies and laws on incentives to supplement and adjust new incentives and mechanisms to enhance the competitiveness and attractiveness of the investment environment. Moreover, the establishment of the support fund to encourage and attract strategic investors and multinationals, as well as support domestic enterprises, is consistent with both FDI regulations and targets, which reflects a shift in perspectives and implementation solutions to meet the aspirations of Vietnamese entrepreneurs. Hanoi attracts almost 870 million USD in FDI last month An estimated 866.8 million USD in foreign direct investment (FDI) was channelled into Hanoi in January, the municipal Statistics Office reported. Le Minh Hoan, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development In December, in the framework of an international festival for Vietnams rice industry in the Mekong Delta province of Hau Giang, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development launched a project to develop one million hectares of high-quality rice cultivation with low emissions, associated with green growth in the Mekong Delta region towards 2030. This event makes Vietnam the first country to build and develop a plan like this, demonstrating its responsibility to the international community. It was also a landmark event for the agricultural sector in the process of joining Vietnam in realising the goal of promoting socioeconomic development and building an emission-mitigating economy. If the agricultural sector is determined to be a national advantage and a pillar of the economy, rice production is considered a key sector that helps ensure national food security and supports the countrys economic development, as well as demonstrating Vietnams responsibility in ensuring the international food system. During the implementation of the project, some new policies will be piloted, such as payment of carbon credits and the development of a circular agricultural economy that makes the most of by-products from rice production. Successful pilots in the Mekong Delta will be expanded nationwide. From those new and breakthrough policies, the project will boost livelihoods and ensure sustainable development for rice farmers - who are the subjects and factors determining the success of the agricultural and rural development. Over the next two years, the primary focus is consolidating 184,000 hectares covered by the VnSAT project. This provides a foundation for imminent tasks and reorganises farmers into cooperative groups, followed by collaboration with businesses. This initiative will eventually reorganise the production system along the value chain, applying sustainable farming practices to increase the value and promote sustainable development of the rice industry. Thus, the project is to play a key role in the development of Vietnams eco-agriculture, which will fundamentally transform the rice sector in the direction of sustainability. It aims to increase values, sustainably develop the countrys rice industry, increase incomes for rice farmers, protect the environment, and contribute to realising Vietnams environmental commitment. Under the project, greenhouse gas emissions from rice farming are expected by reduced by more than 10 per cent and low-emission, high-quality rice will account for over 20 per cent of the total for export in the entire specialised rice farming region. Throughout the implementation of the project, there will be experimental trials of new policies, including paying carbon credits based on performance, focusing on low-emission production tied to green growth, and developing an agricultural economy with a circular approach. The project will not only help reduce emissions but also increase productivity, reduce input costs, and overall bring a 30 per cent increase in profits for farmers, thus helping Vietnam achieve goals in protecting the environment and improving farmers lives as well as food security. Comprehensive restructuring From 2026 to the end of the decade, Vietnam will establish new regions specialising in good agricultural practices, demanding substantial infrastructure investments. Therefore, capital is imperative for the modernisation and upgrading of the irrigation system. Subsequently, during this period, the registered provinces will undergo scrutiny based on the criteria of infrastructure, production organisation, business participation, and sustainable rice growth. Plans such as the one mentioned cannot take place in conferences or seminars, or only in resolutions or action plans. The new restructure must be in the fields, in every farmers house, in the thoughts of farmers. Farmers, despite playing a central role, face numerous challenges, including old-style rice cultivation techniques with the majority of sowing methods and continued reliance on fertilisers and pesticides that they have not yet used correctly. Thus, the important task is to change their awareness, and simultaneously promote their role in developing sustainable agriculture. In addition, we cannot change cultivation methods or farmer perceptions in the course of one or two crops. We need perseverance and persistence year by year, and it is important to have the participation and accompanying of cooperatives and the business community. After recognising the key factors, the next step is to change farmers awareness. Millions of farmers need to be trained properly. They need to be gathered into cooperatives instead of going alone without common goals. Farmers need to clearly understand their goals and the path to get there. The forces to gather the farmers were the farmers unions and the agricultural extension associations from the central to the localities. Now is the time for the farmers unions and agricultural extension associations to show their roles as friends of farmers. Paving the way The restructuring of the farms will be just as successful when their capacity is improved. National strategy on agriculture, farmers, and rural areas for this decade clearly states that to contribute to improving awareness, capacity, qualifications, and education for farmers and rural residents, it is the task of the entire system, in which agricultural extension associations have a pivotal role. These unions and associations activities play a crucial role in supporting farmers in innovation and agricultural development. They are the clues to implement training programmes for farmers and rural workers; propagate and mobilise farmers to participate in vocational training; and consulting on careers, employment, and establishing businesses. They are also the clues to gather and encourage farmers to participate in building advanced, smart, and responsive rural areas using digital transformation. In addition, it is necessary to establish stronger commitments in the companionship between farmers and businesses and processing enterprises. At present, often, some parties do not trust each other. Thus, many businesses are crying foul as farmers are not honouring deals with them to sell agricultural products and are instead seeking to sell their produce to others for higher prices. It is necessary to make the farmers understand that the business community is the driving force of the market. Without businesses, there is no market, so businesses play a leading role in each agricultural sector. Businesses also contribute to positioning brands for the agricultural products of localities and farmers. In addition, businesses have first-hand information about the international and domestic market, the set standards, and understand market signals, thereby they become a bridge to bring farmers products to the international markets. The collaboration between businesses and cooperatives specialising in the likes of growing coffee, durian, and rice is a win-win companionship that will help to gather farmers and contribute to expanding the businesses raw material areas and be self-sufficient in supply. This is also a solution to create stability for the output of agricultural products. The business side also needs to take time to establish a close relationship with cooperatives and households to create trust for farmers. EVFTA opens door wide for Vietnams agricultural produces: experts The EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) not only opens the door wide for Vietnam's agro-forestry-aquaculture exports, but also promotes the country's agricultural sector to improve its competitiveness, according to experts. EVFTA to benefit Vietnams agricultural sector: EP official The EU Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) will bring great benefits to Vietnam's agricultural sector, according to an official from the European Parliament (EP). Vietnams agricultural exports on the rise Free trade agreements and the rising exports of agro-forestry-fishery products strengthen Vietnam's position as a supply market for the world. Vietnamese State President Vo Van Thuong in mid-January urged Indonesia to open its doors wider for Vietnamese agricultural and Halal products, marking a significant step in bolstering bilateral trade ties. MUI Halal Certification Indonesia In an equally encouraging response, Indonesian President Joko Widodo also recognised the increasing interest of Indonesian businesses in the Vietnamese market, stating that the nation is eager to see more Vietnamese enterprises extend their operations to Indonesia. Given Southeast Asias distinction as the region with the worlds largest Muslim population - approximately 277 million, or 42 per cent of the regional populace - the Halal market is enormously influential. Indonesia, as the worlds most populous Muslim-majority country, presents an unparalleled opportunity for the Halal industry, he said. Halal is a term of significant religious importance in Islam, denoting products or actions that are permissible within the faiths guidelines. Vietnams Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh further elaborated on the combined demographic heft of the two nations, almost 400 million people, representing a significant share of ASEANs populace. Vietnams agricultural prowess, coupled with our capacity to produce Halal food ingredients, lays the groundwork for fruitful collaborations with Indonesian businesses, he stated, envisioning a partnership that extends beyond mere trade to encompass Halal certification and production. Vietnams strategic orientation towards the Halal sector is not just about tapping into Indonesias substantial Muslim market. Our goal is to establish a foothold in Indonesia, which would be instrumental in accessing the global Halal market, poised to be valued at $10 trillion by 2028, PM Chinh emphasised. This bilateral engagement goes beyond conventional trade dynamics. Both nations are aligned in their sustainable development goals, with Vietnam targeting net-zero emissions by 2050 and Indonesia aiming for the same post-2060. This partnership is a testament to our shared vision for a sustainable economic future, the PM said. On the other hand, Vietnams foray into the Halal market in ASEAN countries has seen a modest trade turnover, amounting to just over $1.11 billion, with Indonesia being the largest contributor at approximately $430 million in the first nine months of 2023, as per the General Department of Vietnam Customs. Ly Kim Chi, president of the Ho Chi Minh City Food and Foodstuff Association (FFA), pointed out the cultural and procedural nuances of this market. The difference in business culture, consumer tastes, and particularly the intricate Halal certification process, which varies across Islamic nations, are key factors, she said. Bidrico, for example, underwent a 12-step process to obtain Halal certification for its products, illustrating the challenges faced. For companies like Mekong Herbals, obtaining Halal certification is a complex, resource-intensive process. It demands a high level of expertise and adherence to stringent production standards, explained Le Thi Phuong, the companys business director. The prohibition of certain ingredients and the requirement for separate production lines for Halal products add to the complexity. She also highlighted the financial implications for businesses, especially smaller enterprises, saying, The high cost of certification, meeting various international standards like GMP, ISO, and HACCP, as well as adhering to Global GAP and Organic standards for raw materials, poses a significant challenge. Despite these hurdles, only about 50 Vietnamese companies obtain Halal certification each year, mainly in seafood, beverages, and confectionery. Only a few of our members like Vinamilk and Bibica have achieved certification and are able to export, said Chi of the FFA. The absence of a state body for Halal certification in Vietnam complicates access and increases costs, affecting the export competitiveness. However, the global Halal market, currently valued at $7 trillion and expected to reach $10 trillion by 2028, presents significant opportunities. Countries with large Muslim populations are increasingly seeking collaboration with Vietnam in the Halal sector due to rising demand, Chi added. Vice Chairman Vo Van Hoan of Ho Chi Minh City Peoples Committee highlighted that the Vietnamese government is keen on developing its Halal industry through international collaboration. This commitment is evident in the prime ministers directive for a project to bolster the sector by 2030, involving key ministries like science and technology and industry and trade, focusing on establishing national Halal standards and a dedicated certification centre, he said. The global halal food market reached almost $2.47 trillion in 2023. The market is slated to reach $5.8 trillion by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate of 9.7 per cent in the period. This sector is experiencing strong growth driven by an increasing Muslim population, rising consumer awareness, rapid multiculturalism and globalisation, stringent standardisation, growing health and safety concerns, and the proliferation of e-commerce and digital marketing.Source: IMARC Group Halal digital event showcases trade The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation is facilitating high-value, cross-border halal trade digitally at an international event which is now in its final month. TH Group enters the halal market With its long-term vision for the potential halal market, TH Group has been exploiting all possible opportunities to market relevant products. . , . , . , . . One month after a dog was discovered dead at the Marlin Animal Shelter, the two-year-old facility sits empty and closed as residents demand answers about how the shelter was run. Regular protests have continued every Saturday morning at the Falls County Courthouse calling for the arrest of animal control officer Nicole Grams and Police Chief James Hommel on animal cruelty and evidence tampering charges. Following the discovery of a dead dog at the shelter on Jan. 9, Falls County Sheriff Joe Lopez announced his office and the Falls County District Attorney would be launching an investigation into the incident, but no results had been announced as of Thursday. Falls County Chief Deputy W. Derick Johnson said via email Tuesday that the investigation remains ongoing. Calls and emails over the past month to Marlin City Manager Keith Whitfield and Hommel seeking comment have not been returned. A phone call made Thursday to Grams seeking comment was not returned. Marlin Mayor Susan Byrd said in a Jan. 12 statement that she would not be commenting on the situation due to the ongoing investigation. City Council Member Cecil Sparks declined comment when called in January. The shelters issues came to light on Jan. 9, when Marlin resident Jeffrey Rich made a Facebook post after discovering a dead dog and numerous other malnourished dogs at the Marlin Animal Shelter, located at 115 Capps St., along with feces-filled kennels and dry water and food bowls. According to Rich, within minutes of making the post, Hommel came to the shelter and asked Rich to delete the post and also began assisting shelter staff in cleaning up the shelter. Hommel said on Jan. 9 that many of the dogs taken to the shelter were not in a good state anyway and were already malnourished when coming to the shelter. On Jan. 9, Sparks also said the issue was blown out of proportion and said the feces seen in the kennels had accumulated over the day, as the kennels had been cleaned the day before and the dogs had also been fed the day before. Lopez said in early January that the dead dog had already been removed and disposed of before his deputies could get to the shelter and said shelter staff were in the process of cleaning the kennels when he and other deputies arrived. Lopez called the condition seen in the Facebook post disgusting, and said his office would take the investigation seriously and would not cover up for anyone. One month later, no arrests have been made and Marlin residents and animal advocates said they are concerned that nothing will be done to remedy the situation. A group of animal advocates has protested every Saturday at the Falls County Courthouse calling for justice for the animals. They have also created an online petition at change.org with more than 1,200 signatures. In the petition, the group calls for the arrests of Grams and Hommel on evidence tampering charges for cleaning up the shelter and disposing of the dead dog before Lopez and his deputies could arrive, as well as animal cruelty charges. The petition also alleges the Falls County Sheriffs Office is understaffed and unequipped to handle the investigation, and states that an unbiased investigation would be difficult to attain in a small town such as Marlin. The protesters are calling for an independent investigation by the Texas Rangers. Lopez did not return several calls seeking comment Thursday. On the day the dead dog was discovered, there were nine other dogs in the shelter, and by the next day they would all be gone, said Debra Wells, owner of Healing Heart Animal Rehab in Thornton. Wells said she took in two dogs, both malnourished and one on the brink of death. Wells said the dog, which she nicknamed Dude, was 40 pounds underweight. Wells said Dude had trouble standing due to his malnutrition, and was very weak. This was not a quick pain, Wells said. This dog was starved for several weeks. Wells quickly learned that Dude was not just a stray dog and had an owner. Dude and another dog had been taken to the animal shelter after their owner, Sharetta Laury, was arrested on Dec. 12, said Laurys wife, Sharvannha Warren. The couple and their children were in the process of moving to Texas and ended up losing nearly everything in a Marlin apartment fire on Nov. 3. The family originally had six dogs but lost three in the fire. While the family was looking for a new place to stay, they had to take their remaining dogs to the animal shelter as the motel they were using as temporary housing did not allow pets. Warren said her family would visit the dogs every so often, and every visit the dogs appeared skinnier. Due to the seemingly deteriorating condition of the dogs, Warren said her family decided to take their dogs out of the shelter and attempt to find another temporary home for them. On Nov. 26, the family visited their dogs and decided to pull them out the next day, but upon arriving the following morning, they were told one of the dogs, a puppy named Akilo, had died overnight from parvo. Warren said her family was told Akilo had been found that morning with blood coming from his mouth, though he had seemed fine the day before. By the time the family came to the shelter, staff had already disposed of the dogs corpse, and only had his collar left. While Akilo was only four months old, Warren said he had just gotten his shots, and should have been vaccinated against parvo. Warren said her family pulled the remaining two dogs from the shelter, and when they were fed, they ate like they hadnt eaten in a while. Warren then said she had to leave the state to take care of some business regarding the familys move, and while she was gone, Laury was arrested on Dec. 12 on felony charges unrelated to the animals. The remaining dogs were impounded in the shelter once again. Warren said she learned from news accounts about the shelter conditions discovered Jan. 9 and then scrambled to try and find out about her dogs. She learned from the news that her dog Prince had been rescued, though shelter and city staff had not told her. Prince turned out to be the dog Wells had rescued and nicknamed Dude. Warren said calls to animal control to try and determine the status of her dogs went unanswered. Wells said a veterinarian judged the dog to be severely undernourished. A microchip in the dog allowed her to identify Prince and return him to his owners, Wells said. Marlin resident Guy Clemmons also said he was displaced by the Nov. 3 apartment fire, and said the city offered to board his two dogs while he looked for a new apartment. On Jan. 9, Clemmons saw the post about the shelter conditions and went to City Hall to try and speak with Chief James Hommel to find out about his dogs. Clemmons said he was told his dogs had been dead for a while, with one dog dying on Dec. 3 and the other on Dec. 31. Clemmons said he was told there had been attempts to contact him, but he still never received word that his dogs had died in the shelter. He said he was told both of his dogs had been found dead in a pool of blood, and still does not know how exactly they died. According to Clemmons, the shelter has remained closed and has not taken in any new dogs since being emptied on Jan. 10. The Tribune-Herald in mid-January submitted several open records requests to the city of Marlin for records relating to the animal shelter, followed by requests this week to the Falls County Sheriffs Office. City and sheriffs officials cited the ongoing investigation in refusing to release records detailing the most recent veterinarian inspection report on the shelter or the police report from the day the dead dog was found. In response to the open records request, Marlin officials provided animal intake records from November through January, but they appear to be incomplete or in conflict with the owners version of events. The records indicate that only one dog was brought to the shelter on Nov. 3, the day of the apartment complex fire. That dog was logged as a found stray, not an owner surrender. Warren said three of her dogs were brought to the shelter on Nov. 3, while Clemmons said two of his dogs were brought to the shelter on that date. The intake records indicate that of the 28 dogs that entered the shelter in November and December, nine came in malnourished. Those include a pit bull brought to the shelter Dec. 29 in a severely malnourished state. It is unclear whether that dog was the same pit bull that was discovered dead Jan. 9. A former Midway school administrator was convicted Thursday of manslaughter and failure to stop and render aid in the 2016 hit-and-run death of a Baylor University sophomore. Tammy Renee Blankenship, 56, faces a sentence of two to 20 years in prison on the second-degree felony charges. Her sentencing hearing is scheduled for Friday morning, and the state and defense each expect to call five witnesses for the hearing. Because the jury made a deadly weapon finding, Blankenship would have to serve half of any prison sentence before she would be eligible to seek parole. If jurors sentence her to 10 years or less, they would have the option of giving her probation. The case went to the McLennan County jury of six men and six women in Wacos 54th State District Court at about 10:45 a.m. Thursday, after prosecutors and Blankenships defense attorney delivered closing arguments earlier in the morning. Deliberations lasted more than six hours before the jury returned the guilty verdicts. During closing arguments, defense attorney Shane Phelps said the states case was legally insufficient, drawing attention to Waco police Detective John Clarks testimony that he had written in Blankenships arrest affidavit that blood was found on her car despite state crime lab tests indicating no blood was found. McLennan County assistant district attorneys Will Hix and Tara Avants reviewed the evidence they said shows Blankenship hit David Grotberg while she was drunk on her way to her downtown Waco home from a gathering in Woodway, and told jurors they should convict her. Blankenships trial started last week in the hit-and-run death of Grotberg, 19, of Fergus Falls, Minnesota. She was convicted of hitting Grotberg while he was riding a bicycle in the 3200 block of Franklin Avenue at about 10 p.m. Oct. 6, 2016. If you believe Detective Clark lied in the warrant application and find the evidence he gathered insufficient, then you must acquit, Phelps said Thursday. Two previous attempts to say something similar drew objections from lead prosecutor Hix, and Judge Susan Kelly told the jury to disregard the previous statements. Kelly also sustained one of Phelps objections during Hixs closing, when Hix told the jury Phelps knows Blankenship is guilty. She told the jury to disregard Hixs statement and to draw their own conclusions from the evidence. Hix in his closing argument asked the jury to give the Grotberg family justice and find Blankenship guilty. He said she knew she had been at a party in Woodway and drank too much before driving to her home near downtown Waco down Franklin Avenue like we all do. He said she got a phone call at the intersection of Valley Mills Drive and Franklin Avenue and then took off fast from the stop light, hit Grotberg and continued on without stopping. Before Hix, Avants reminded the jury about the knock in the night when the Grotberg family found out David had died and said that while they started grieving, Blankenship was awake making up false stories about what happened that night. Phelps told the jury to send a message that they expect more from the Waco Police Department and McLennan County District Attorneys Office than lead detectives who mislead judges on warrant applications and do not gather sufficient evidence to prove the defendant did what they say. He said none of Grotbergs blood, hair or skin was found on Blankenships car and that his forensic expert said Blankenships car did not kill Grotberg. Phelps also said even the Waco police cellphone tower expert could only say it was more likely than not that Blankenship had driven down Franklin. More likely than not is not beyond reasonable doubt, Phelps said. Phelps also said Grotbergs friend who had been riding a bike next to him when he was struck told the police the vehicle she saw hit him was large and white. On the night in question Blankenship had driven a gray 2013 Hyundai Accent. Waco police arrested a 47-year-old sex offender Thursday after a 13-year-old runaway reported he picked her up from a gas station and sexually assaulted her earlier this week, according to an arrest affidavit. David Lamont Drakes was booked into McLennan County Jail on Thursday on a first-degree felony charge of aggravated sexual assault of a child. According to an arrest affidavit, a 13-year-old girl at a Child Protective Services facility for high-risk children ran away from the facility Monday and was picked up at a gas station by Drakes, who is a registered sex offender. The affidavit says Drakes took the teen to his home and sexually assaulted her. CPS staff learned Wednesday that the missing child had texted other children in the facility, and police were then able to find the child at Drakes' residence, the affidavit says. Drakes told police he had sex with the child but "didn't know how old she was," the affidavit says. According to the affidavit, CPS facilities for at-risk children have had several cases of runaway teens being picked up and sexually assaulted by adults, with this case being the third in the past week. According to the Texas Public Sex Offender Registry, Drakes was convicted in 1994 of two counts of aggravated sexual assault, one against a 12-year-old girl and one against a 21-year-old woman. Drakes remained jailed Thursday afternoon on $100,000 bond. Crime in Waco was down across the board last year, Waco Police Chief Sheryl Victorian said Tuesday. She attributed the decline to community outreach efforts and an increase in patrols throughout the city. During a city council meeting Tuesday, Victorian gave a presentation outlining the Waco Police Departments statistics and operations for 2023 compared to past years and gave an outline of the departments goals moving forward. Victorian presented figures showing violent crimes were down 10.8% and nonviolent crimes were down 14.8%, for an overall 14.3% decrease last year compared to 2022. According to presentation slides from the meeting, violent and nonviolent crime saw an increase in 2021 before trending downward over the past two years. 2021 saw 2,757 instances of violent crime and 19,376 instances of nonviolent crime. 2022 saw 2,560 instances of violent crime and 19,057 instances of nonviolent crime. Last year saw 2,283 instances of violent crime and 16,239 instances of nonviolent crime. Despite the decreases, Victorian said the Waco Police Department is still dismayed that more than 2,000 people were victims of a violent crime in 2023, and she said the department is working to decrease that number even more within the next few years. One of the main things Victorian credits for the decrease in crime is the departments efforts in creating community engagement through relational policing, which she said is a crime prevention method where officers get out into the community to participate in events to build trust between officers and the community. Weve used relational policing to connect with our community and build trust, Victorian said. We believe in taking a holistic approach to addressing crime, and that includes use of prevention, intervention and apprehension. Some events that officers participated in include a back-to-school bash at Richland Mall, National Night Out, Halloween Trunk or Treat events and Red Ribbon Week. Victorian also said the department launched the Unidos Waco program early last year, which encourages engagement with Spanish-speaking members of the Waco community. Other crime statistics presented to the city council show a decrease in the number of reported lost or stolen firearms, from 308 in 2022 to 198 last year, with the number of firearms recovered remaining about the same, at 556 in 2022 and 529 last year. The number of 911 and nonemergency calls to police also decreased year over year, from 346,259 to 260,609. Victorian also said the number of shots-fired calls has decreased by 26% year over year and by 36% compared to 2021. She said the overall number of shootings in Waco in 2023 was 36, compared to 46 in 2022 and 60 in 2021. Victorian also said dispatch response times has decreased, with 80% of calls being answered within 20 seconds. She said dispatch has made it a goal for next year to increase that number to 80% within 15 seconds. National picture Eric Connolly, a criminologist and associate professor at Sam Houston State University, told the Tribune-Herald last month that community engagement has been a big part of an overall decrease in violent crime throughout the United States. Connolly said elsewhere in Texas, violent crime is down in San Antonio, Fort Worth and Houston, while numbers in Austin have remained the same as last year. Meanwhile, Dallas and El Paso have seen increases in violent crime, especially gun violence, he said. Crime decreased in most major cities nationwide in 2023, Connolly said, with Washington D.C. and Memphis being outliers. Despite social media buzz about retail theft and car burglaries in big cities such as Los Angeles and San Francisco, Connolly said the number of property crimes has actually decreased, apart from an uptick in auto thefts. WASHINGTON The Supreme Court on Thursday heard two hours of historic arguments in a Colorado case to remove former President Donald Trump from the ballot. The justices sounded highly skeptical of the effort. It's the first time that voters have tried to block a candidate from the presidency under a once-obscure post-Civil War constitutional provision barring those who engaged in insurrection from holding office. Some takeaways from the arguments: TRUMP SEEMS LIKELY STAY ON THE BALLOT In tone and tenor, the justices' questions challenged the notion that a state court can order a presidential contender off the ballot for violating Section 3 of the 14th Amendment. That section bars those who engage in insurrection from holding office. The case was brought by a group of Republican and independent voters, and the state of Colorado. Their argument was rooted in the idea that states have the ability to police their own ballots and bar Trump for his role in the violent insurrection on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. The riot stemmed from Trump's refusal to accept the results of the presidential election that the Republican lost to Democrat Joe Biden. From across the court's ideological divide, there was near consensus that the Colorado arguments were flawed. Justice Elena Kagan called the issue of determining whether someone engaged in insurrection just more complicated and more contested and more political. Justices Samuel Alito, Brett Kavanagh and Chief Justice John Roberts questioned Jason Murray, the lawyer for the plaintiffs, about what would stop other states from citing Section 3 in taking aim at politicians they didn't like. Murray gave well-rehearsed arguments that won the day in the Colorado Supreme Court, whose 4-3 ruling that Trump was ineligible got the case to Washington. Murray contended that the Capitol riot was a once-in-history sort of event and that courts would ensure that the provision isn't abused. But that line didn't not seem to persuade the justices. A WAY OUT? Section 3 presents a quandary for judges, who are reluctant to make decisions that reorder democratic elections, especially without a precedent. The provision doesn't spell out any procedures or even the meaning of insurrection. It just says anyone who engaged in one can't hold office. The court's best way out may be a lookback to an 1869 case known as Griffin's case. That involved a Virginia man who argued he couldn't have been convicted of a crime because the judge who heard his case was, as a former Confederate, disqualified from office under Section 3. Salmon Chase, who was then the chief justice of the Supreme Court, heard the case while acting as an appellate judge. He ruled that Congress had to create a mechanism for Section 3 to take effect. Congress did, but the measure expired in the 1940s. The justices repeatedly asked about Griffin's case. Trump's lawyer have argued it is still the only rational way for Section 3 to be applied. Chase had argued previously that Section 3 took effect automatically so the plaintiffs seeking to disqualify Trump contended his ruling was not good law. But that line of argument clearly didnt carry the day. JAN. 6 GETS LITTLE MENTION The plaintiffs wanted this case to be about Jan. 6, not Griffins case. That sums up their problem. They hoped for a Supreme Court affirmation that the former president did engage in insurrection and threaten the Constitution with his campaign to stay in office after his 2020 loss. But the justices werent going there. Instead, they focused on the potential legal chaos of allowing state courts to decide who can be president. Kavanagh noted there is a federal law against insurrection and it bars those convicted from holding office. Trump has not been charged with violating that law. Trump would like the high court to declare him not responsible for the violence on Jan. 6. There was little indication that would happen because the matter barely came up. A DIFFERENT HISTORY One thing that has distinguished the case is the extent of historical argument about the origins of Section 3, which has largely laid dormant since a congressional amnesty to most Confederates in 1872. Trump's main argument is that the provision isn't meant to apply to the presidency because that office isn't specifically mentioned, while senator, member of Congress and even presidential and vice presidential electors are. The argument largely revolved around obscure issues, but Justice Ketanji Brown-Jackson, seemed curious. The plaintiffs have argued it would be absurd to bar people from all sorts of lower offices while leaving the most powerful one open. But Jackson, the first Black female justice, contended that the 14th Amendment was mainly about making sure the South will not rise again meaning the states. Perhaps, she continued, the provision's authors presumed that keeping insurrectionists from serving as electors would be a sufficient safeguard against an insurrectionist president. Murray noted that in the congressional debate on the provision, a senator asked why the section didn't apply to the presidency and one of its authors pointed at language intended to include that office. But it's unclear that convinced Jackson or the court. WHAT'S NEXT? Going into the case, the prevailing view of legal experts was the Supreme Court would keep Trump on the ballot. That's sense has grown now. What else the court decides will have major implications for both Section 3 and potentially other constitutional provisions. The justices all sounded skeptical of letting states decide Section 3. Murray acknowledged under questioning that there's no way to bring a federal lawsuit challenging a president's qualifications, so if the court bars state action, that would end efforts to challenge Trump's place on the ballot. If the court rules the provision doesn't apply to presidents, it could open up other sections of the Constitution such as the emoluments clause, which prohibits officials from accepting gifts from foreign countries, to new interpretation. Lawyers had attempted to apply this to Trump during his presidency but the case was rendered moot after he left office. If the court takes the Griffin's case route, the justices could say it's up to Congress to draw up new procedures to implement Section 3. That would likely kill all Section 3 challenges for the foreseeable future because a divided Congress is unlikely to accomplish that anytime soon. But Justice Amy Coney Barrett raised an unsettling possibility in her questioning of Trump's lawyeer, Jonathan Mitchell. What if, she asked, Trump is elected and a new Congress writes rules applying Section 3 to him. Would that conflict with the impeachment clause? Would it mean a reelected President Trump suddenly becomes ineligible. Mitchell said he thought that would be legal, implying Congress could potentially remove Trump, or another president, from office. It may be a remote possibility, but it's the sort of hypothetical that underscored another point: However much the court may want to do away with Section 3, it could come back to haunt them in a sequel. CEDAR FALLS Prairie Rapids Audubon Society will host award-winning ecologist and author Connie Mutel at Feb. 13 at 7 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church. Mutel is editor of the new book "Tending Iowas Land: Pathways to a Sustainable Future" (University of Iowa Press 2022). "Tending Iowas Land" is the first book to comprehensively consider challenges to Iowas soils, water, climate, and native biodiversity. Its 28 contributing authors explain the origins of these problems and present visions for a healthier, more resilient future. By intermingling science-based chapters with essays by Iowans who are actively addressing current problems, "Tending Iowas Land" creates an energizing call to action. Mutel's book received the 2023 Midwest Book Award for Nature. She was recently recognized as one of Iowa's Nature Champions for her efforts at writing and speaking about Iowa's natural history and environmental challenges. A silent auction of bird- and nature-related items will held with treats and social time afterward. The public may attend. Photos: A look back at the 2008 flood in Northeast Iowa 061008dm-flood-26 061008sm-flood-5 061208rct-downtown-flood01 060908mp-new-hartford-04 061008jn-floods2 061208mp-flooding-1 060908mp-new-hartford-21 061008dm-flood-23 061008dm-flood-35 060808mp-flooding-03 060808rct-newhartford09 060908mp-new-hartford-05 060808rct-indee-flood01 060808rc-floods-cf3 060908dm-flood-11 060908mp-new-hartford-06 061708rc-new-hartford3 061708mp-Brustkern-farm-2 061408sm-flood-3 061608-goodrich 061708mp-waterloo-bridge 061708rc-new-hartford1 061408sm-flood-6 061708jk-waverly-school-2 061808jr-shelter-2 061708rct-floods02 061508rct-floods03 061708mp-Gable-Museum-3 061408sm-flood-5 061708mp-railroad-damage-1 061708rct-floods06 061708mp-clarksville-2 061708rc-new-hartford6 061708mp-Gable-Museum-2 061408sm-flood-4 061408sm-flood-1 061708rct-floods03 061708mp-clarksville-3 061708jk-waverly-school-1 061708rc-new-hartford2 061708mp-road-damage-1 061708rct-floods08 061708rct-floods07 061508rct-floods01 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061008mp-waverly-aerial-01 061008mp-waterloo-aerial-12 061008mp-waverly-aerial-03 061008mp-floods-05 061008rc-floods16 061008rc-floods10 061008mp-waverly-aerial-06 061008mp-north-cedar-2 061008rc-floods8 061008mp-waverly-aerial-02 061008rc-floods1 061008rct-flood-rescue009 061008mp-hwy57-aerial 061008mp-cf-aerial-20 061008mp-cf-aerial-14 WATERLOO An Ankeny man was detained when he allegedly entered a fenced-in area at a National Guard facility near the Waterloo Regional Airport on Thursday night. Police cited Michael Robert Schock, 34, for first-offense trespassing. Authorities allege Schock hopped a barbed wire fence and then climbed underneath the main gate at the Army Aviation Support Facility, 2245 Big Rock Road, which is a restricted area marked by no trespassing signs, at about 11:30 p.m. The property is owned by the Iowa Army National Guard. Waterloo police found him walking in front of the facility when they arrived. He was released pending a court date. The incident came about 12 hours after Schock was arrested for misdemeanor theft in Cedar Falls. In that case, he allegedly entered Target on Viking Plaza Drive, changed into $115 worth of clothing from the store including shoes and underwear and walked out, leaving his original clothes behind, according to court records. Photos: Iowa National Guard Detachment 1, Company C (Medevac) send-off Iowa National Guard Send-Off 1 Iowa National Guard Send-Off 2 Iowa National Guard Send-Off 3 Iowa National Guard Send-Off 4 Iowa National Guard Send-Off 5 Iowa National Guard Send-Off 6 Iowa National Guard Send-Off 7 Iowa National Guard Send-Off 8 Iowa National Guard Send-Off 9 Iowa National Guard Send-Off 10 Iowa National Guard Send-Off 11 Iowa National Guard Send-Off 12 Iowa National Guard Send-Off 13 Iowa National Guard Send-Off 14 Iowa National Guard Send-Off 15 Iowa National Guard Send-Off 16 Iowa National Guard Send-Off 17 CEDAR FALLS A former University of Northern Iowa student has been arrested for allegedly threatening a dean and her husband and threatening to shoot a university staff member. Aisha Ahmad Nyala, 25, currently of Altoona, was arrested Tuesday on warrants for five counts of first-degree harassment and three counts of stalking by use of a technological device. She also had been arrested in January on a charge of intimidation with a weapon. She was released pending trial. The cases were investigated by the Cedar Falls Police Department and University of Northern Iowa Police Division. According to court records, Nyala threatened to harm Allyson Rafanello, the dean of students, and her husband, Nick Rafanello, UNIs executive director of housing and dining. Police allege Nyala used an alternate Facebook profile to post messages to a Rafanello family photo saying, I will get someone to deal with you and I will make sure that what you've done comes back to haunt you" in November. In January, UNI officials received an online student complaint stating, in part, I promise that I will get revenge on you if it's the last thing I do. That's something I'm willing to dedicate my entire life to my new studies will be how to successfully get revenge. Then on Jan. 22, Nyala allegedly phoned the Iowa Board of Regents to ask about a complaint she filed. During the call, she allegedly stated if something isnt done, she will go to the university and shoot that woman in the head. Documents dont identify the intended victim of the shooting threats, but prosecutors handling the case sought restraining orders to protect Allyson Rafanello and Heather Harbach, UNIs vice president of student life. The bogus Facebook account that posted the messages was eventually linked to Nyalas email address, court records state. Investigators also used the IP address on the January student complaint to trace the message to Nyalas home address, according to court records. The counties where American children have the best and worst shot at upward economic mobility The counties where American children have the best and worst shot at upward economic mobility Where climbing the ladder is most daunting #3,014. Allendale County, South Carolina #3,015. Bullock County, Alabama #3,016. Terrell County, Georgia #3,017. Shannon County, South Dakota #3,018. Todd County, South Dakota 'Connections across class lines' 5. Madison County, Idaho 4. Morgan County, Utah 3. San Francisco County, California 2. Douglas County, Colorado 1. Rockingham County, New Hampshire Voters in Carson City tell us it is a high privilege to get to choose who you want to represent your country. That is why many said they attended the caucus. 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. In her mind she was talking relaying to her hairstylist stories from her recent trip to Rome. But as Beth Bonness looked at herself in the mirror, dye still in her hair, she could see her mouth wasnt moving. Thats weird, she thought. Snowflake-like lights appeared to the side of her left eye, and her right hand curled into a claw. Her stylist asking Bonness if she was OK, if she needed help sounded like she was underwater. And there was pressure, but no pain, says Bonness, of Portland, Oregon. The whole thing lasted a few minutes maybe four, she recalls. So Bonness, then 49, finished up her hair appointment, met her family for dinner at a nearby restaurant, then went home and filled her husband in on the strange events of the afternoon. Soon after, Bonness was in the emergency room getting checked out. It was there she learned, blood pressure sky-high, that shed likely had a transient ischemic attack, or TIA, which happens when blood flow to the brain is temporarily blocked. Roughly 240,000 Americans a year have a TIA, sometimes called a ministroke, according to the American Stroke Association, though this number is probably higher since they often go unreported. And though they can occur at any age, theyre most common among adults 55 and older. Bonness went home with blood pressure medication and a plan to take it easy for a few days. Knowing when to seek help TIA risk factors Major risk factors for TIA include: High blood pressure Diabetes Heart disease Atrial fibrillation Smoking Source: American Stroke Association Its not uncommon for symptoms such as the ones Bonness experienced to be brushed aside, says Hardik P. Amin, M.D., associate professor of neurology and medical stroke director at Yale New Haven Hospital St. Raphael Campus in Connecticut. A big reason: When it comes to a TIA, theres no pain involved. Usually if theres a pain component, thats going to send folks running to the hospital, Amin says. Here, its more like a loss of ability to do something. And that loss of ability quickly resolves, often within a few minutes. A short-lived weakness or numbness in the arm? Sometimes patients just think, Oh, I just slept on it funny. Ill try to shake it off or just kind of work through it and see if it just gets better on its own, Amin says. Bonness, who was a busy working mother, admits that when her TIA was happening, there was a soft little part of her that thought it could be stroke related. But with everything going on in her life, she says, there wasnt a lot of air space for the quiet warning signs to percolate. Eloelo, a homegrown live social-media app, launched an anti-Valentine's campaign with Big Boss Fame, Abhishek Malhan aka Fukra Insaan. The company filed a nation-wide petition on change.org to rename Valentines Day to #KunwaraDiwas. Saurabh Pandey, Founder & CEO of Eloelo, said, We saw a barrage of comments and clips online by the new age Indians expressing annoyance and distress with Valentines Day. Singles have been calling out for their own day and celebration amidst all the noise around Couples on Valentines Day. We at Eloelo decided to stand by all Kunwaras this Valentines and to demand for their equal rights, we have started a petition on change.org to rename Valentines Day to #KunwaraDiwas. Eloelo partnered with Abhishek Malhan to help voice the callout for renaming Valentines Day. Abhishek in his own inimitable style proclaimed his feelings to his fans and supporters on X(twitter). Eloelo is also promoting the campaign in various colleges of Delhi-University. Commenting on the association with Eloelo, Abhishek Malhan said, I have always advocated for love and laughter and I strongly believe nobody should feel left out on Valentine's Day! Being single isn't a curse, it's a comedy of errors, and we should celebrate this day for being single also. I'm really excited to partner Eloelo and launch the petition to rename Valentines Day to #Kunawara Diwas. Eloelo is a homegrown live social media platform established in 2020, is defining a digital third place for the new age Indian. A live social entertainment app, Eloelo appeals directly to the need of young Indians to communicate with each other, express themselves, and fulfill their desire to participate in digital communities with like-minded people. Ranked in the Top 1 in India on the Google Play Store for Entertainment, it seamlessly integrates audio and video live chatrooms with interactive games and shows, fostering connections between over 40 million users and 400K creators. For Valentines Day last year, Eloelo had launched Indias first online reality show, Love House. The show was streamed live for 144 hours, passing the world record for a continuous live stream on a mobile phone. The show observed 4 million views on livestream across 6 days, with a peak concurrency of over 200k viewers. Love House also served as a distribution channel for Bollywood movie Shehzadas promotion. In an interaction with Adgully, Jignesh Kenia, President & Head of Corporate Strategy & Digital Transformation at Times Network, provides a comprehensive overview of the groundbreaking Brand Surge initiative. This innovative campaign holds the potential to revolutionise the advertising landscape for start-ups and small businesses, addressing a crucial need in the industry. The key thought here was the funding winter, where start-ups struggled to raise funds and hence, advertise and grow their business or scale up their operations, Kenia explains. Drawing from personal experience as an angel investor, he realised the impact of the funding crunch on start-ups during the last 18 months. This inspired the birth of Brand Surge, aimed at helping start-ups advertise on TV at minimal costs to navigate through the funding winter. Highlighting the networks commitment to social initiatives, Kenia says, During the Kerala floods, we helped raise funds for the affected people. During demonetisation, we ran a campaign called re-monetisation to increase the circulation of money in the system. Brand Surge aligns with this ethos, designed to assist start-ups in building brand awareness during challenging times. TV can help them build brand credibility, leading to repeat purchases and hence, the continuity of that revenue without having to advertise again and again, Kenia emphasises. TV advertising provides start-ups with a platform to create brand awareness and credibility crucial for long-term success. Kenia acknowledges the perception that TV advertising is expensive and explains, That is where Brand Surge makes a difference. The initiative offers alternative advertising options at highly discounted packages, starting from Rs 1 lakh, making TV advertising accessible to start-ups and addressing the cost barrier. Even today, TV reaches out to 20 crore households and close to 90 crore audiences. This kind of reach cannot be provided by digital currently, Kenia points out. He highlights the unique impact of TV advertising, particularly in family decision-making scenarios, where it complements digital advertising. Kenia clarifies that Brand Surge is an initiative designed for small to medium-sized brands. The focus remains on assisting start-ups during the funding winter and creating a long-term partnership with the start-ups. These are edited excerpts, for the complete interview with Jignesh Kenia, watch below: News Broadcasters & Digital Association (NBDA), the collective voice of the news, current affairs and digital broadcasters in India, whose membership includes 28 leading news and current affairs broadcasters comprising 73 news and current affairs channels and 54 digital news platforms, submitted its comments expressing strong reservations and concerns regarding the Draft Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2023 (Draft BSR Bill), which was circulated in November 2023 by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB). In its submissions to the MIB, NBDA highlighted the main areas of concern, which are as follows: Excessive Delegation Inclusion of OTT and Digital News Content Vague Definitions and Ambiguous Provisions Three-Tier Regulatory Structure Self-certification by Content Evaluation Committee (CEC) Stringent Penalties Power of the Central Government to prohibit transmission of programme or operation of broadcaster or broadcasting network. NBDA submitted that there is excessive reliance on delegated legislation under the Draft BSR Bill, which creates ambiguity with respect to the Central Governments expectations regarding the eventual implementation of the relevant provisions of the Draft BSR Bill. It can also lead to further contradictions and ambiguity, leading to potential arbitrary use of regulatory powers. Regulating OTT services akin to traditional Broadcasting services would amount to treating dissimilar/ unequal services in a similar manner/ equally, which would not only be arbitrary and discriminatory, but would also be violative of Article 14 of the Constitution. The Draft BSR Bill overlooks several fundamental distinctions between these services based on the very nature of the applicable regulatory and technology framework, business practices, and nature of relationship with consumers. Further, no prior study or impact analysis was conducted to ascertain the feasibility of treating OTT services as Broadcasting services and whether the same would potentially result in censorship or overregulation and be detrimental to the ease of doing business. Since the content disseminated by OTT services is already regulated by and under the Information Technology [Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 (IT Rules), the MIB should avoid regulatory overlaps under the Draft BSR Bill, which will only lead to duplication (and increase) of compliance liability for stakeholders. NDBA criticised the usage of several broad and vague terms in the Draft BSR Bill. It stated that vague or overly broad terminology carries with it the distinct possibility of misuse and/or arbitrary application by authorities since vagueness itself serves to delegate matters of public policy to regulatory authorities, law enforcement and the Executive and can lead to unconstitutional fetters on the freedom of speech and expression. For instance, the broad definition of news and current affairs programmes under the Draft BSR Bill, apart from the inclusion of the terms noteworthy, cultural, and analysis, may also result in the regulation of any content created by individual bloggers and journalists who may not be considered broadcasters in the traditional sense, which would in turn lead to violation of Article 19(1)(a). The imposition of the Programme Code and the Advertisement Code as they exist today would discourage journalists and individual broadcasters from expressing their views and providing diverse perspectives on various matters, as the terms used under the Programme Code and Advertisement Code are vague and can be subjectively interpreted. NBDA submitted that the Draft BSR Bill vests uncanalised powers with the Executive to determine the contours and standards of content regulation. Since the Programme Code and Advertisement Code would impact content and thereby the freedom of speech and expression and the broadcasters right to carry on business under Articles 19(1)(a) and(g), respectively, any restriction sought to be imposed must be within the four corners of Article 19(2) and should be prescribed by way of legislations and not by way of rules which would be notified subsequently. NBDA submitted that using the contravention of the Programme Code or the Advertisement Code as a touchstone for undertaking action against broadcasters goes beyond the reasonable restrictions laid down in Article 19(2) and is likely to have a chilling effect on the freedom of speech and expression. NBDA opposed the proposal for creating a Regulatory Structure under the Draft BSR Bill, similar to the Three Tier Complaint Redressal Structure established under the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules 2021 and the IT Rules 2021. Given that the challenge to the Three Tier Complaint Redressal Structure is pending before the Honble Supreme Court and the High Courts, NBDA, while expressing its deference for industry-led self-regulatory bodies such as News Broadcasting & Digital Standards Authority (NBDSA), suggested that the provisions concerning the Regulatory Structure should be kept in abeyance. Upon perusal of the provisions of the Draft BSR Bill, NBDA stated that the Bill suffers from the vice of excessive executive interference. The Draft BSR Bill also results in pre-censorship as the broadcasters are permitted to air only those programmes which are certified by the CEC. News and current affairs programmes have not been exempted from the aforesaid requirements. NBDA submitted that implementing pre-broadcast certification in news and current affairs content is not feasible, and the creation of CEC is a prime example of regulatory overreach. NBDA conveyed its apprehensions regarding the disproportionate and stringent penalties prescribed under the Draft BSR Bill, including under the First Schedule for violating the Programme and Advertisement Code. It stated that the penalties prescribed must be reduced as they were not industry-friendly and would impede the ease of doing business. To ensure the objective of transparent policy formulation in relation to a critical legislative exercise which will have a far-reaching and long-term impact on multiple industry sectors, NBDA submitted that the MIB upload stakeholders comments and make these publicly available on its website so that all stakeholders can understand the various perspectives put forth in relation to the Draft BSR Bill and subsequently comment on the same. NBDA stated that it believes that the Draft BSR Bill is an opportunity to revisit the extant policy and regulations and suggested that an effective light touch regulation approach should inform the formulation of the Draft BSR Bill. Swati Khandelwal, with over two decades of media experience across prominent channels such as CNBC-TV18, Bloomberg TV, and Zee Business, has recently assumed the role of Senior VP and Head Group Corporate Communications at Mahindra & Mahindra, effective from February 9th. Her extensive career in media is underscored by notable achievements, including being honored with the Donald T. Sheehan International Scholarship at the Wharton Seminars for Business Journalists, hosted by the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Khandelwal is actively involved in advocacy efforts for women's empowerment and upliftment. She serves as a steering committee member of the Indian Women Network - Maharashtra Committee, demonstrating her commitment to advancing the cause of gender equality and inclusivity. The entire city of Mumbai and Maharashtra has been shaken by the firing incident in Dahisar. In this incident, both Abhishek Ghosalkar and the accused, Mauris Noronha, alias Mauris Bhai, who opened fire, died. One after another, two murders in a series show how the state has turned lawless. There was no remorse or fear while shooting or killing each other. The son of former Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Vinod Ghosalkar, Abhishek Ghosalkar, was shot in Dahisar, in the northern suburbs of Mumbai. Abhishek was a former corporator, and a person known to him fired three bullets at him over some dispute. Ghosalkar is known to be a youth leader of the Shiv Sena (UBT) and was a two-term corporator from ward number 7. Abhishek, who is also the Vibhag Pramukh of Shiv Sena (UBT) in the Dahisar area, is known to be close to Aaditya Thackeray, the son of former Maharashtra CM and Shiv Sena (UBT) head Uddhav Thackeray. Abhisheks wife was also a corporator from Ward No. 1. Abhishesh came to politics due to nepotism; his father is a veteran leader and he gave his son a chance. They have done enormous work in their constituency but the son failed to earn the status of his father. The offspring of politicians are now spreading their wings but most of them are at some calculated risk due to the political and power rivalry. Mauris Noronha, who likes to refer to himself as Mauris Bhai, is a 49 -year-old businessman who resides in Borivali. Noronha, who earlier worked in Dubai and in the United States, had set up a finance business in Borivali. If you take an auto, you will find his poster behind every rickshaw. He was very good at self-promoting. Mauris was good at power play and he had dominance in his area. Mauris had gained substantial press coverage for his social work during the pandemic and was felicitated by the then Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshiyari as a COVID warrior. Noronha, who describes himself as a philanthropist and social worker, was also keen on contesting the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections. Mauris Noronha shot Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Abhishek Ghosalkar today at Dahisar in Mumbai, when Abhishekh and Mauris were live on Facebook. Mauris Noronha invited Abhishek to an event because Abhishek and Mauris had a dispute in the past but recently their argument was resolved. During the event, he took him inside his cabin and shot him. He fired three bullets shots using his revolver. Later, he also shoots himself. In 2022, Mauris Noronho was arrested by the MHB Colony Police for allegedly blackmailing, raping, cheating, and threatening a 48-year-old homemaker with Rs 88 lakh since 2014. But Mauris was enjoying the support of BJP and its tall leaders In the past few weeks, purported photos of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and their sons meeting individuals with criminal backgrounds have surfaced. The law-and-order situation in Maharashtra is worsening day by day. As usual, the Mumbai Crime Branch has taken over the investigation and the investigation will focus on various aspects such as the source of the weapon, Noronhas state at the time, and questioning witnesses. Both Ghosalkar and Noronha had personal issues, but Facebook Live was meant to reconcile their differences for the betterment of the IC Colony area. The police are examining Noronhas alcohol consumption and have collected his blood samples. Lets see what comes out of the bag. A Pensacola woman was sentenced to life in prison Wednesday after pleading no contest to pouring gasoline on a store clerk and setting her on fire in 2022. Escambia County (Fla.) Circuit Court Judge Linda Nobles sentenced 32-year-old Betty McFadden to life in prison for attempted 1st-degree murder, despite expert findings that McFadden suffers from severe mental illness, according to the Pensacola News Journal. Nobles rejected the pleas of McFaddens attorney to pass a more lenient sentence on McFadden so she could seek help for the bipolar and schizoaffective disorders which from which a psychiatrist said she suffers. Dr. Stephen Zieman said McFadden has a lifetime of treatment needs ahead of her. Regardless, Nobles described McFadden as a dangerous human being, and said letters from the victim and the family weighed heavily in her decision. Nobles acknowledged McFadden had a difficult childhood and had been homeless for many years. But there are a lot of people that are dealt bad hands that dont go on to set somebody on fire, Nobles said, according to the report. The incident occurred at a Circle K store on March 30, 2022. McFadden had been panhandling outside the store and was told to leave, according to the Escambia County Sheriffs Office. Investigators said McFadden returned later in the day with a gas can, asking people for money to fill it. Once there was gas in the can, she walked into the store and poured gasoline store clerk Joie Hellmich. Hellmich attempted run, but McFadden had matches hidden in her bra and began to throw the lit matches at Hellmich, catching her on fire, according to the sheriffs office. Hellmich suffered 2nd- and 3rd-degree burns over 33% of her body. Another employee who came to Hellmichs aid with a bucket of water was also burned in the incident. A letter written by Hellmich was read in open court, according to the PNJ, in which she said she is not the same person she had been before the incident and may never be again. Like my emotional scars, I will never be the same again physically, she wrote. One Alabama librarian says shes unlikely to use the states new inappropriate book list. The fact that a book has been noted as award-winning or problematic by one person or group shouldnt dictate a local librarians actions, according to North Shelby Public Library director Kate Etheredge. And when it comes to the 82 books flagged as possibly inappropriate by the Alabama Public Library Service, theres no way to know if theyre even in a local library. AL.com received a copy of the Alabama Public Library Services list and reviewed the 82 books that Alabamians deemed inappropriate for children. They include a childrens book about a Japanese bathhouse and 10 books for Christian readers. Some books also have been targeted in other states, according to PEN Americas banned book list. I dont think the list will be very useful in the day-to-day running of the library, Etheredge said. Since it is a statewide list, the concerns could be coming from anywhere and may not be relevant to my library. Since it is anonymous, it could be coming from one person or hundreds and they may not live in my district. As such, the list has about the same impact as any listing of banned books or award-winning books, to let us know a book has some buzz. But just because a book has buzz does not mean it belongs on the shelf or should be taken off. The state form requires an Alabama address and specific page numbers where the referrer found objectionable content. The form also asks a complainant to note the books location in an Alabama library. But APLS director Nancy Pack said the board decided not to include the specific library location or personal identifying information as part of the public record. APLS staff isnt confirming the locations of individual books. LGBTQ characters or themes are featured in 24 books, though some dont directly have LGBTQ references at all. One of the so-called inappropriate books is the childrens picture book Red, A Crayons Story by Michael Hall that is also listed on PEN Americas nationwide book ban list. The book is about a crayon with a red label that can only draw or color in blue. Other crayons try to help Red change but then accept and celebrate the crayons drawings. This funny, heartwarming, colorful picture book about finding the courage to be true to your inner self can be read on multiple levels, and it offers something for everyone! said Halls website. Clean Up Alabama is a group behind many of the book challenges statewide. Its inappropriate book list includes 24 of the titles on the states list. One of the books is Door by Door: How Sarah McBride Became the First Openly Transgender Senator. This is a nonfiction picture book about Delaware State Senator Sarah McBride, elected in 2020. It is not clear whether this book is in any of Alabamas libraries. Fifteen books on the list are by Linda Byler, a prolific author who writes Amish romance novels. There are 10 books geared towards Christian topics and themes, including God Made All of Me: A Book To Help Children Protect Their Bodies. On the first page, the book is dedicated to empower and train Christian communities to recognize, prevent and respond to child abuse. Another book flagged as potentially inappropriate on the state list is The Big Bath House by Kyo Maclear and Gracey Zhang. Its a childrens picture book about a girl visiting her grandmother in Japan. They visit a bathhouse together. Various skin tones and body shapes and sizes celebrate a broad spectrum of body diversity in the book, according to Kirkus Reviews. Instead of using the APLS list, Etheredge said she will continue to listen to and address patron concerns. Sometimes that means having a conversation about why the book is located where it is and informing the patron of the tools, including librarians, available to help them find materials that will be more in line with what they are looking for. Occasionally, it means convening a committee to discuss the book and its place at the library. We have countless food options in Alabama, so why cant we ever decide where to eat? Despite the many restaurants in our respective towns, you often hear those whiny refrains: Theres nowhere to eat here! This town needs more restaurants! We beg to differ, but whos turning down something new, different and good -- and even more intriguing, popular places that have yet to break ground here? On Facebook, we asked you a simple question: What restaurant chain do you think should come to Alabama? We got more than 2,000 responses from folks eager to recruit burgers, chicken, seafood and fries from all over the country, so we can finally try what weve been missing out on all these years. Readers said Del Taco, Bob Evans, Boston Market, Skyline Chili, Sweet Tomatoes and other popular restaurants you can find seemingly anywhere outside of Alabama. But five stood out among the clamoring to bring the chains inside our borders. Below are the five restaurant chains Alabama desperately needs. (Read all of the AL.com reader suggestions ...) There are no In-N-Out Burger locations in Alabama, something many of the state's residents would like to change. (AP Photo/Adam Lau, File)AP In-N-Out Burger Those are good burgers, says Donny, bowling pal of The Dude and Walter in The Big Lebowski. But how would we know? Unless you smuggled a soggy patty in your luggage leaving LAX or you brought some Tupperware back from the Dallas-Fort Worth area to enjoy later, you havent eaten the famous In-N-Out Double Double within Alabamas state lines. Widely considered one of the great burgers in the U.S., fast food or otherwise, In-N-Outs widely adored, supposedly quite juicy burgers are mythological objects round these parts, like lembas bread from Lord of the Rings or the Big Kahuna burger from Pulp Fiction. Make it a reality, or pack bag and book a flight due west. Jack in the Box Head to the locations section of this chains website, and youll only spot Arizona under the A. It feels like that clown head (the restaurants mascot) is just mocking Alabama, at this point. A Large Classic Buttery Jack Combo, a Large Cluck Sandwich, a Chick-N-Tater Melt -- we just want the opportunity. I suppose the good news here is you can find them in the Southern states like Kentucky, Louisiana, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee, if youre passing through. No none of those are Alabama, are they? Now whos the clown? Portillos Home to Americas favorite Italian beef, burgers, salads, Chicago-style hot dogs and chocolate cake. Yes, well take all of that, please. Fans of the Emmy-winning FX show The Bear are craving one of those juicy beef sandwiches, and if we cant make it all the way to Mr. Beef on New Orleans Street, well happily try one from this chain some foodies consider just as good if not better. And well take the chocolate cake and eat it, too, while were at it. One day. Youll find Portillos in Florida (St. Petersburg, Orlando) or Texas (Arlington, Fort Worth), but Alabama? Keep asking, Wheres the beef? Raising Cane's, the popular Louisiana-based purveyor of chicken fingers, will open its first Oregon location this week in Portland. Hannah Drown/Cleveland.comHannah Drown, cleveland.com Raising Canes We could really use a chicken finger place, Facebook user Chris Armstrong quipped in the comments, drawing a few laughs. You probably already frequent the drive-thrus of fast-food chicken places like Guthries, Foosacklys, Zaxbys, Waltons, Slim Chickens and others, but you wont find this popular chain close by. But heres the catch: There are two Raising Canes locations in our state, one at 210 McCorvey Drive on the University of Alabama campus in Tuscaloosa; and another at 3200 Airport Blvd. in Mobile. Thats it. in T-town, good luck finding a parking place and braving the lines packed with hungry college students, if you want to try a finger combo with the crinkle-cut fries, Canes sauce and Texas toast. (Note: We missed the Mobile location, which you will find at 3200 Airport Blvd. Our mistake. Point is: We want more Raising Canes in Alabama.) White Castle White Castle fries only come in one size, New York poets The Beastie Boys once told us. And some of us will never find out, unless we hit the road to try the chain best known in the Midwest and New York metropolitan area. A silver lining: You wouldnt have to drive far to find locations in Tennessee, as nearby as Nashville. Weve had access to small slider burgers and fries from Krystal for years, but weve long wanted to have what Harold and Kumar are having, at least to eat. As this week started, anyone looking at the Facebook page of downtown Mobile restaurant Spot of Tea would have seen something remarkably cheeky: An AI-generated image of a cartoonish rodent at a table in front of the restaurant, raising a toast. The caption: Mimosas $8, Eggs Benedict $15, Mardi Gras with friends Priceless. The big rodent, and the smaller ones on the tabletop, looked more like mice than rats and had a cute, cartoony vibe. But for a restaurant that only recently reopened after a prolonged shutdown over health inspection issues, it was eye-catching. The first commenter quoted the 2004 movie Dodgeball: Its a bold strategy, Cotton. Lets see if it pays off for him. Several hundred comments followed, with many expressing support for the restaurant and taking the post as a note of self-deprecating defiance, while others saw it as delusional. Spot of Teas owner, Tony Moore, responded playfully to both. Either way, it appeared to represent an end or at least the end of a chapter in a dispute between Moore and the Mobile County Health Department. After flaring up last summer, hostilities erupted into public view in early January, when Moore aired some grievances on Facebook, raging at the MCHD over alleged unfair treatment and persecution. At the peak, the public saw Moore announce that the restaurant would never reopen. But, aside from the Facebook furor, there was a lot the public didnt see including a July shutdown that drew relatively little public attention and a 50-minute standoff between a combative Moore and a phalanx of MCHD personnel behind the restaurant that on Jan. 11 that led to the big one. Forming a perfectly clear picture of the situation is difficult: Moore has spoken to AL.com at length, detailing grievances that range from disputed procedural points to allegations of malfeasance and conspiracy, and he has provided a variety of supporting documents. MCHD has made minimal comment, saying it does not report on active investigations or inspections. Mobile County Health Officer Dr. Kevin P. Michaels has added that the department does not comment on personnel actions but that we do take all allegations, complaints and comments seriously. The MCHD was formed before the state of Alabama existed, so it predates the Alabama Department of Public Health and has an extraordinary degree of autonomy, compared to most county health departments. Spot of Tea, at 310 Dauphin St., was opened in December 1994 by Moore and his mother, Ruby Moore. Offering a hearty breakfast-and-brunch menu in a prominent spot on the north side of Cathedral Square, it tended to enjoy heavy traffic and at one time expanded to include a comedy club, LEstrade, on the back side of the building. Spot of Tea has operated off the north side of Cathedral Square in downtown Mobile since December 1994.Lawrence Specker | LSpecker@AL.com June 28 arguably serves as a starting point for the recent festivities. MCHDs website reports that Spot of Tea received a score of 87 on that day. Thats a passing grade that does not require re-inspection. However, on July 6, it was again inspected and received a 60. That requires a re-inspection within 48 hours; in this case, the restaurant was closed for about a week before it got a passing grade and reopened. One quirk is that the June 28 inspection is listed among the inspections that can be found on the MCHD website, but the July 6 one isnt. The online archive known as the Internet Wayback Machine shows that for a time in late summer, the Alabama Department of Public Health website reported that Spot of Tea had been closed on July 6 due to a rodent infestation. Other than that, theres no trace of it unless you purchase a copy from MCHD. The July 6 report includes a complaint from someone claiming to be an employee, who says the inspectors missed a few things. The complainant alleges theres a pervasive rat and roach problem. The new inspections findings agree: Fresh rat droppings were found in storage rooms, near ware washing sinks, and throughout the unused upstairs bar/lounge areas. Multiple holes were found in wall throughout the building. Previously active rodent sites were concealed with laundry bags, boxes and equipment. Evidence of rats getting into sauce packets was found. Dead roaches were also found throughout the building. Many of the issues found today were related to unaddressed issues from 2022. Moore says there was no problem. He shared emails and inspection reports from a pest-control company, Ecolab, which apparently conducted a routine service on July 5, checking bait stations and so on. The report indicates that no pest activity, structural concerns or sanitation issues were found. Another report from July 7 shows the same. To Moores mind, the July 6 inspection was a sham, and the fact that it wasnt listed on the MCHD site is evidence of a cover-up. In keeping with its stance of not commenting on investigations, the MCHD has declined an invitation to comment specifically on that point. At any rate, the restaurant reopened and carried on until Jan. 5, a Friday, when Spot of Tea once again scored a 60. This report didnt say anything about rodents or roaches. The score was based on a list of about 30 things that seemed eminently fixable: Repairing holes, replacing stained ceiling tiles, sanitizing equipment, making sure all sinks had hot water, showing that all employees had valid food handler cards, and so on. The report concluded with the statement, Establishment is closed. Will reinspect on Monday 01/08/24. Moore is not a man known for an even temper. In March 2021 he created a social-media stir with a furious memo he posted to chastise employees for alleged dishonesty, laziness and thievery. This staff needs an enema, read one section title. Within a few days of the Jan. 5 shutdown, his communications with MCHD would go from conciliatory and private to accusatory and public. With a series of eruptions on Facebook he would create a social media furor that brought the conflict to wider public attention. By Jan. 17 he had posted that he couldnt reopen and that the business and the building housing it were now officially for sale. Moore later modified that somewhat, posting that he still hoped to reopen and later that he thought the business would reopen under new ownership. Moore has a few gripes about the Jan. 9 visit, but whatever might have happened there, its overshadowed by the standoff on the morning of Jan. 11. Moore recently allowed an AL.com reporter to review his cell-phone video of the Jan. 11 meeting; based on his video, it appears MCHD personnel also recorded at least part of it. The scene is a parking lot. Moore stands at the back door of the restaurant, flanked by a couple of employees who remain out of view. Eight or so MCHD personnel stand 10 to 15 feet away, their backs to Claiborne Street and the Temple Downtown, a large puddle occupying part of the space in between. Stephanie Woods-Crawford, the MCHDs Executive Director of Prevention & Wellness, does almost all the speaking for the department. Over the course of the next 50 minutes, she will say more than once that shes not present as an inspector, but rather is accompanying inspectors because allegations have been made against the department. She begins by introducing the staff to Moore, who seems impatient with the small talk. She then says that shed previously told Moore by email that the building was going to be closed until MCHD had an opening inspection, but we were on the front side of the building and from being on the front side of the building, we noticed that youre open and serving clients. Wide open, affirms Moore. Thats not what your letter said to me. This leads to a prolonged wrangle. Moore disputes that he was supposed to be closed. Woods-Crawford produces a copy of her email, which she says is dated Jan. 9, a Tuesday. It cites an inspectors report from that morning, in which the inspector said Moores team had not been ready for an inspection. (Moore agrees they werent ready, and has characterized the visit as a sneak attack). Crawford, reading the email, says that Many of the items that you refer to as being completed in the email document sent to us on Jan. 7 have not been addressed and were not corrected. She reads to its conclusion: please be advised that the original closure stands. You will need to contact MCHDs Inspection Services department for an inspection and approval to reopen the facility. An irate Moore asks her to read a key part again. When she gets to the part about the original closure, he cuts her off. There was no original closure! he shouts. You opened me Friday the fifth! This is the bullshit that I go through with yall! Sir, this is not, says Woods-Crawford. As Moore shouts over her, she says Im not trying to argue with you, Im not going to stand here and Yes it is! continues Moore. He yells, I wasnt closed! The MCHD position is that the fixes had never been verified by a completed inspection as required. Moores argument is that he had an understanding that when the problems were corrected, he could open and he argues that because he emailed a list of corrections hed made, describing everything hed done to fix the issues, he was in the clear. Woods-Crawford says Moore didnt complete all the fixes he described, so that was never the case. With that issue unresolved, the question of whether an inspection will now take place comes to the forefront. Theres a point in the video where Woods-Crawford repeatedly asks Moore if he will allow inspectors to come in; while shes asking the question, Moore is yelling over her, finishing up his thoughts on other points. Its clear that Woods-Crawford never hears a yes. To Moore, listening to the recording play out, the key point is that hes never heard to say no. To call it a failure to communicate is putting it mildly. Theres another point in the video where Woods-Crawford steps away to take a call. Moore begins to suggest to District Manager of Inspection Services Brad Philips that the inspectors go on in and do their thing, while he and the higher-ups hash out their differences separately. Brad, with all due respect, Im not gonna stay here all day, Moore says. Ive got other things to do, like try to figure out a way to pay my employees this week. If yall would like to inspect, do whatever you like, Im willing to take our business up in private without a camera on me or anything. I didnt want it that way, but if yall want to inspect, yall do it, but Im not gonna stay here all day, wherever shes at on her phone, and just wait. Ill come to yalls office or whatever. But I want my 98 or 100 for what weve done and I want my permit. Before that line of discussion has a chance to go anywhere, Woods-Crawford steps back in and Moore continues airing his grievances about the permit he hasnt been able to get. At one point Philips says he cant get the permit if he doesnt have a current inspection grade or if he has outstanding violations. Moore argues that hes been trying to get his hands on that permit since fall, when he did have a passing grade and didnt have any outstanding violations. Moores suggestion to Philips that the inspection can proceed while the other disagreements are handled separately might be workable, or it might not be. But it falls by the wayside, undiscussed. As the tone of the encounter heads steadily southward, Moore begins throwing out allegations of possibly criminal behavior against at least two MCHD employees (who, to be clear, are neither Woods-Crawford nor Philips). He says one of the people in question pressured him to hire a relative and keep her on the payroll. Somewhere around 50 minutes in, Woods-Crawford has had enough. Mr. Moore, were going to issue an illegal operations for you being open today. Were going to come back Ive already told your people to go in and inspect, he says. Mr. Moore, you stopped us, she says, as he continues talking. Mr. Moore, you stopped us from being able to go in No I did not! Thats wrong, too! We have been here since 10 oclock, she says, as Moore talks over her, repeatedly saying Brad, tell her! And now it is 10:47, she continues. We still havent been able to go in. Were issuing a notice of closure Well let our attorneys handle it. He says that while she was on the phone, hed offered to Philips that if they would like to go in and do the inspection, its fine with me, and we can do our business privately if you want without a camera on and all that. I dont think we dont need a camera, says Woods-Crawford, summing up the state of play. In the next major tangent, Moore raises a new allegation of misconduct against MCHD employees. He says the same one who allegedly pressured him to hire a relative also made a practice of hitting up the restaurant for free lunches, often joined by a co-worker. Woods-Crawford, exasperated and incredulous, says all of this is new to her and presses Moore for details. Moore depicts himself as an owner who manages the restaurant from off-site and is rarely on the scene, and says the free meals went on for months but that he didnt know about them until recently, when he just happened to hear about them from his son and his kitchen manager. Both of the accused employees appear to be on hand. Woods-Crawford asks the kitchen manager some questions; his answers are hard to distinguish. Woods-Crawford tells one of the accused MCHD employees to walk away after the employee appears to try to engage with the kitchen manager. Moore says his son also can testify. Finally, Woods-Crawford tells Philips, Go ahead and issue. Philips prepares to hand Moore a shutdown order and says, Get everything done Everything is done, says Moore. give us a call back, continues Philips. Were not going to Im calling, whats you number? Ill call you right now, says Moore. Ill call you right now. Mr. Moore, can you sign it please, asks Woods-Crawford. No, he says. Im not signing nothing. I sure aint. I sit here an answer every one of your questions, never stopped yall from coming in and inspecting, whats your number, Im calling you right now for an inspection. I did mark it refused to sign, says Philips, as Moore continues to ask for the number. The number is on the sheet, says Woods-Crawford. As the MCHD contingent walks away, Moore laments the amount of business hes losing. So Im officially shut down? he asks. Moore finds the number and calls it to see if he can get an inspection done that day. He gets no immediate satisfaction. Tony Moore, owner of the Spot of Tea restaurant in downtown Mobile.Lawrence Specker | LSpecker@AL.com Showing the video to a reporter two weeks afterward, Moore said the prolonged shutdown had just about broken him financially. Financially its completely wiped me out, he said, more recently. Nothing can undo the damage, the financial damage. Because, you can quote me on this, I pay on average $5,000 Well, its more than that I pay on average $6,000 worth of bills a day, every day of the year. And I went the whole month of January with only $17,000 worth of revenue. Last January, I think I did $187,000. This January I did $17,000. The drama didnt end with the shutdown. As a reporter visited him at home on Wednesday, Jan. 24, Moore said he had reason to think state inspectors were coming the next morning. He began discussions with employees on what they needed to do before the inspectors arrived, such as getting rid of produce that might have spoiled during the shutdown. At the appointed time on Thursday, Jan. 25, two inspectors arrived at the back door of the restaurant, one of them wearing a lab coat and carrying a clipboard. No one met them to open the door. They waited there for about 20 minutes, at which point it started raining and they moved around to the front door. All told, they waited outside the restaurant for an hour and 10 minutes before leaving. Moore said later that he refused to let the inspectors enter because there werent any ground rules. They did later return, however, and that apparently led the state health department to make a recommendation to the MCHD. By Feb. 1, Moore had gotten a message from the MCHD sent on behalf of county health officer Dr. Kevin Michaels, which he shared with AL.com: Mr. Moore, After review of Spot of Tea file and the most recent inspection performed by ADPH, the management has corrected numerous findings. Some of the additional findings can be corrected with attention to detail on providing hand drying towels at the handwashing sink and cleaning can opener and pans. The Spot of Tea must procure the services of a licensed Pest Control Operator to develop an integrated pest control plan for the facility. It cant be over emphasized that the presence of a competent and certified food manager, within 120 days, should be able with owner support to maintain and improve the sanitary practices in this facility. I recommend that the suspension be lifted once all unpaid fees in the sum of $410.00 (see attached.) are paid. Moore said later Feb. 1 that he was paying the fees under protest and might later appeal them. That evening, he reinstated the Spot of Tea Facebook page, which he had shut down, and posted that the restaurant would be open Friday morning, under same management. And it did. A visit late that morning found business proceeding more or less as usual, though only a handful of tables were occupied during a reporters visit. The service was attentive. The beverage of choice was the signature strawberry sweet tea. The Eggs Cathedral with loaded hash browns was the same as always, with English muffin halves buried under so much egg, seafood and cream sauce that they were hard to find. It wasnt a particularly refined dish, but it was overwhelmingly rich and hearty and hit the table with surprising speed. No rodents, cartoon or otherwise, were sighted. Whether the current status quo represents a lasting peace or a brief interlude remains to be seen. Moore said his Mardi Gras with friends post represents his decision to join in on the fun of making fun of me. This has knocked me down a bunch of notches, Moore said. My emotions are, I love downtown Mobile. I love it. As much as I want to get mad at it and not love it, I do. And the same goes to my restaurant. Ive come to realize that I literally have a toxic relationship with my restaurant. I mean, anyone whos had a toxic relationship knows what Im talking about. No matter how much I hate it sometimes, I want it back, no matter how much I leave it, I come back to it This has been the hardest saga of my 30 years experience there. With regard to Moores allegations against MCHD personnel, Dr. Michaels said, in a statement provided to AL.com on Feb. 8, Allegations are taken seriously and are investigated through appropriate personnel board procedures. Michaels statement also said: The Spot of Tea was re-inspected on January 29, 2024, and met the minimum sanitary requirements to receive a Mobile County Health Department Health Permit and open to provide services to customers. The owner has been notified that another health department inspection would occur soon to ensure sanitary requirements are met. According to MCHDs website, the restaurant received an 80 in that Jan. 29 inspection, meaning it will be re-inspected within 30 days. Between now and then, you might see Moore leaning into the Mardi Gras with friends post. I bought a mouse outfit for me to wear and I bought one for a girl to wear, he said. And so Im thinking about coming downtown near Mardi Gras dressed as a mouse. Im holding it in my hand right now. Last month, Yelp published its annual list of the Top 100 Restaurants in the U.S. -- a list which did not include a single Alabama eatery. Now, with Valentines Day fast approaching, Yelp has published its 2024 list of the Top 100 Romantic Restaurants. And this time, Alabama didnt get shut out, although it was close. Yelp says it compiled the rankings by searching through reviews in the restaurant and food categories, looking for large numbers of reviews that contained the words or phrases romantic, date night and valentine. Those spots were then ranked using factors including total volume and ratings of reviews which mentioned those keywords. They also capped the number of restaurants per city which could be included at five to promote geographic diversity. Good thing, too, else Alabama mightve been shut out again. The old-world charm of Amore Ristorante Italiano in Birmingham makes it a perfect location for a romantic dinner -- on Valentine's Day or any other time.(Facebook/Amore Ristorante Italiano) But the Yellowhammer State is represented thanks to Amore Ristorante Italiano, a Birmingham establishment which ranked #38 in Yelps Top 100 romantic dining spots. The 240 reviews Amore has received pale in comparison with, say, the XO Restaurant in Hawaii, which has over 2,100, but Amores reviews average 4.5 stars (out of 5.0). The restaurant, located on Highway 280 in Birmingham, describes itself as authentic Italian cuisine in an old European atmosphere. It features Italian and seafood dishes such as lobster ravioli, crab cakes, pasta alla vodka, veal marsala and Italian cream cake, among other delectables. Amore also offers an extensive selection of wines and a full-service bar. Yelp reviewer Marvin C. of Birmingham wrote in December that he and his wife celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at Amore. It has the perfect ambiance: though it is located off of Hwy 280, the moment you enter it immediately feels like an intimate NYC bistro, Marvin wrote. A place where you would expect to bump into Frank Sinatra! The staff is amazing. Having made reservations weeks ago, we were seated in a very comfortable setting within two minutes. Other than the terrifying idea of running into Frank Sinatra, who died in 1998 (there is a painting of Ol Blue Eyes above the bar), Marvins review of Amore was glowing, as he went on to describe their meal as superb and added, If youve never been here, you should. You will be glad you did. Another Yelp reviewer, Bailey H. of Homewood, spent a birthday at Amore last October. The food here was amazing, she wrote. The portions are very large, and the calamari is a must-try. I had the Pollo alla Vodka while my mother had the lobster pasta (both VERY delicious). The servers are meticulous and offer wonderful suggestions. The restaurant is very peaceful, somewhat candle-lit. A definite must-try! A number of reviewers noted Amores location along Highway 280 doesnt seem like it would lend itself to a romantic atmosphere, but once inside that thinking changed. Absolutely delicious!, wrote Kelsey D. of Birmingham. While the location may seem skeptical on the outside, the inside far exceeds expectations! Ambient lighting serves as the perfect spot for a date night with your spouse. Service is great. Wine selection is stellar and the food is AMAZING. She also strongly recommended the amaretto cheesecake. Its to die for! While Alabama had just the one selection to Yelps Top 100 romantic restaurants, neighboring Florida (of course) had a dozen establishments chosen, including two in the Panhandle. Firefly in Panama City Beach came in at #16 on the list. Firefly, specializing in sushi and steak, has an overall Yelp rating of 4.3, based on 1,330 reviews. Closer to Alabama, George Bistro & Bar in Pensacola was ranked #28, with an overall rating of 4.6 from 1,478 reviews. Unlike many of the entries on the Top 100 romantic restaurants, Georges serves brunch and lunch in addition to dinner. An investigation is underway after a shooting outside a west Birmingham restaurant. The shooting happened at 4:52 p.m. Thursday outside Churchs Chicken on Jefferson Avenue S.W. The initial information was that a male and female were initially shot. That was later updated to just the male being shot. Police radio communications indicated the male was shot in the chest. It appears the victims then drove to nearby Steiner Avenue, where police and medics responded. The male was taken to the hospital with possibly life-threatening injuries. At least one neighbor of a pricey new home for sale in Birminghams East Lake neighborhood said it sends a clear statement to those who live there. It means, Were going to come in with our money and push you out, Tamara Curtis, a homeowner and East Lake property owner said. Where does that leave the people who do keep up their property? The home in question is a new 2,100-square-foot home, with three bedrooms and two baths, which has a price of $569,000. It comes fully-furnished, with designer grade furniture, Tempur-Pedic mattresses, a stand-up shower and two tubs, wifi, a side Lanai porch, chefs gas stove, and other amenities, such as a tankless gas water unit and underground electricity. It sits in a residential neighborhood among homes in various states of repair that would sell for a fraction of its asking price, and near abandoned houses showing decades of neglect. Curtis said a more understandable price, in keeping with the neighborhood and the surrounding homes, would have been something like $180,000. Even that, she said, was still pushing it when considering the income of neighboring homeowners. Im not trying to stop anybody from investing in property, she said. But in this area, in this climate? Even people in that neighborhood, they cannot afford it. Andre Halston is the owner of FlipBama, the company that built the new home. Halston did not comment for this story, but referred to a statement placed on the company website after a story appeared in AL.com about the house. It states the home was built for the property owner, who set the price. To the thousands who have sent in positive messages and thank you notes over the past months, weeks and days for choosing this area (...) and trying to make a positive impact on this community, I sincerely say that those notes are much appreciated, the statement reads. To the immediate neighbors who have been touched by us, we trust that it has been a positive, respectful, collaborative experience. I know that many of our contractors shared their talents, support, equipment and building materials - free of charge to several neighbors and they only ask that you Pay it Forward to other neighbors as they did. Willie Wooten, president of the South East Lake neighborhood association, said he hasnt had any comments from residents over the house. City Councilman Hunter Williams was aware of the house but said he wasnt bothered by the price. Williams said several builders are investing in projects in East Lake, and the average home value in the neighborhood is rising. Most of the projects, he said, involve rehabilitating houses that are not considered livable when potential residents are seeking a bank loan. When theyre building up to code, it creates synergy in the neighborhood, he said. You can list whatever you want for a house, but will you get $569,000 for it? I dont know. Curtis, who said she has lived in East Lake her whole life, said the obvious issue with the house is gentrification. A new expensive house, Curtis said, will drive up the property taxes on surrounding properties, forcing out long-time homeowners who will be unable to afford higher taxes, and unable to afford new or existing housing. She said some residents may not even realize they can dispute a reevaluation of their property values. Say you have an elderly family that has lived in the area and has worked to retirement and have put everything they have into their properties and paying them off, she said. At what cost do we evaluate what the neighborhood means to them? Their houses will never achieve the value of that particular home. They may never be able to bring up their house even to half the value of that home. She says she supports bringing in affordable housing, as some homes in the neighborhood are in obvious disrepair. The Alabama National Guard on Friday showed off what officials called the worlds most technologically advanced combat aircraft at a ceremony and flight show in Montgomery, a celebration that signaled an important role in national military preparedness and a chance to carry on the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen. Alabamas 187th Fighter Wing was picked by the Air Force as a home base for the F-35A Lighting II stealth fighter jets in 2017. The Air Force affirmed that decision after an environmental analysis in 2020. After what officials said was much preparation and planning, the first three jets arrived in Alabama in December. The 187th Fighter Wing is the third Air National Guard unit to receive the new fifth-generation jets, which will replace the F-16. At Fridays ceremony, Col. Brian Vaughn, commander of the 187th Fighter Wing, told hundreds of soldiers, airmen, officers, public officials and others that 187th would be ready to use the F-35s in the same spirit that the Tuskegee Airmen, known as the Red Tails, protected American bombers in the skies over Europe. This has been years coming, Vaughn said. Lots of sweat and tears. Lots of hard work. Lots of conversations. Lots of long hours. But today its here. Were excited to celebrate this day as we take the traditions, the excellence, the dedication, the selfless sacrifice of the Tuskegee Airmen into the next decade and hopefully the next century. Gov. Kay Ivey and other officials spoke during the hour-long ceremony. That was followed by a flight show featuring two of the new F-35 jets, an F-16, and a P-51 Mustang, a plane the Tuskegee Airmen flew. Lt. Col. Richard Peace, a member of the Alabama Air National Guard since 2003, talked to reporters after flying one of the F-35s on Friday. Peace said the F-16 was an amazing plane but said the F-35 has new technology that will make a difference in combat. The ability to see adversaries and see threats at long-distance ranges, the ability to not only see those threats but not have those threats see us, is a really big advantage for us, Peace said. The jet is still relatively new. Its continuing to grow and the capabilities are being expanded. So were constantly learning how to use those capabilities to our advantage. And its really a game-changer when it comes to aerial combat. Peace said he grew up in an Air Force family and said a neighbor and friend of his parents was an original Tuskegee Airman. He encouraged Peace to pursue his dream to fly fighter jets. Peace said he appreciates the importance of carrying on the Red Tails legacy. Being a part of that is an honor but its also a big responsibility, Peace said. I feel like we need to uphold the values of the Tuskegee Airmen and make sure were carrying that forward into the next generation. The F-35 is a single-engine, single seat-jet. Alabamas F-35 will have the Red Tails to connect with the Tuskegee Airmen history. The effort to bring the F-35s to the 187th Fighter Unit started about 2007, Peace said. It finally succeeded because of the efforts of military leaders, Alabamas congressional delegation and senators, state and local officials, and private citizens, Peace said. It was a massive collaborative effort between the military and civilian population, even the local citizens of Montgomery all coming together, working together to make this happen, Peace said. It was a big challenge. There were times we had the F-35, then we didnt have the F-35, then we did have the F-35. It was just all those people staying engaged continuing to push the narrative to make this happen. Col. Casey Hall, operations group commander for the 187th Fighter Wing, said the unit is expected to eventually receive 20 F-35s. It has three now, plus two on loan from an Air Guard unit in Vermont. Our next 17 airplanes are all coming off the factory floor brand new, Hall said. The planes are expected to arrive over the next five years. Construction to prepare for the operations will cost about $112 million, according to the Alabama National Guard. The unit is expected to be fully operational by 2026. Hall said the Air Forces decision to make the 187th Fighter Wing a home base for F-35s will have a lasting impact. The significance of this program for the Alabama Air National Guard is longevity for us and relevance in the next generation of warfare, Hall said. When a Guard unit is awarded new fighter aircraft and when they spend so much money to build up the base and the personnel behind the airframe, it implies decades of not only military jobs but also civilian contractor jobs as well. For the Air National Guard, were a Tuskegee legacy, Hall said. And so were keeping fighters in the Tuskegee Airmen fighter squadron, which is something were very proud of as a wing. Were getting the most technologically advanced aircraft that are out there right now, which makes us more relevant to a peer adversary fight than we have been in the past. So its a big change. Its a big change in mission. And its a big change in our relevance to the global operations. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency said a Morgan County man faces multiple charges in connection with a fatal 2023 traffic crash. According to Senior Trooper Cody Farrar with ALEA, Hugo Armando Roman-Ortiz was taken into custody Thursday morning at 5:55 a.m. by troopers with ALEAs Highway Patrol Division, with assistance from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Roman-Ortiz was transported to the Lawrence County Detention Center where he was served with grand jury warrants for manslaughter, driving under the influence, no drivers license, improper lane usage and driving thru traffic control device. The charges came in connection with a May 28, 2023 crash on Alabama 157 near Lawrence County 150, about eight miles north of Moulton in Lawrence County. Kendall Lee Dean, 48, was fatally injured when the 2014 Ford Focus that he was driving collided head-on with a 2004 GMC Yukon, driven by Ortiz, 33, of Decatur. Troopers said Dean was not using a seat belt at the time of the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene. Ortiz was injured and transported by helicopter to Huntsville Hospital for treatment. The passenger of the GMC, Fernando Jose-Portillo Mariano, 22, of Decatur, was also injured. A south Alabama woman who has filed for bankruptcy 11 times is now on court-mandated home confinement after she falsified a judges order to try to live in a $450,000 house. Lucinda Lou Miller, 48, was convicted last year of making false statements under oath in a bankruptcy proceeding. The U.S. Justice Department on Friday announced a federal judge has sentenced Miller to five years of probation of which the first year will be spent on electronic monitoring. Miller was in Chapter 13 bankruptcy in 2020 when she obtained the courts permission to buy a car, according to her guilty plea. The bankruptcy judge, in a written order, authorized Miller to spend no more than $18,000 on the vehicle. Then, in a ploy to unlawfully squat in a home, Miller offered to buy a home for $450,000. When the sellers realtor pressed Millers realtor to provide proof of funds for the purchase, Miller delivered to her realtor a falsified order purporting to authorize her to purchase a home for up to $500,000, altered from the legitimate order permitting her to buy a car. Millers realtor then provided the false court order to the sellers realtor, authorities said. The sellers realtor contacted the Bankruptcy Court Clerks Office to verify the orders validity. The clerks office notified the court of the fake order, and ultimately, Miller lied under oath in a bankruptcy proceeding when she said she knew nothing about it. Authorities said Miller has filed for bankruptcy in Mobile 11 times since 1995. She is now barred by the bankruptcy court judge whose order she faked from filing for bankruptcy anywhere in the U.S. for 30 months due to her abuse of the bankruptcy court proceedings. The bankruptcy court is a mechanism for people in financial trouble to seek a fresh start by liquidating their assets or getting the courts protection to extend the time to pay back their creditors, said Sean P. Costello, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Alabama. This defendant abused the bankruptcy court and exploited its authority for her own benefit when she ginned up a bogus court order and then lied about it under oath, Costello said. Read the newsletter below. Sign up to get it in your inbox each day here. Coming soon: More chills Weather forecasts for Alabama have us staying fairly warm over the next several days, with rain chances here and there. But that doesnt mean were emerging from winter chills, reports Leigh Morgan. Beginning sometime late next week through the first week or so of March, longer-range forecasts show that were likely to see temperatures that are below-average for this time of year. For mid-February average would mean highs in the mid-50s to mid-60s and lows in the mid-30s to mid-40s, depending where you are in the state. Going solo Last week we reported that the popular radio show out of Birmingham, The Rick & Bubba Show, will end its 30-year run in December. Now we know that its likely co-host Rick Burgess will go solo with The Rick Burgess Show beginning in 2025, reports AL.coms Mary Colurso. Radio-industry sources are reporting that the president of the company that syndicates Rick & Bubba has confirmed the future show. If you listen to Rick & Bubba, you know that several guys who work on the show are also on-air personalities. Weve heard no indication as to whether some of the staff would follow Burgess to his new show. Theres also no word yet on format. On Rick & Bubba theres a lot of humor and storytelling and cutting up as well as an emphasis on the co-hosts Christian faith. Burgess also heads up a mens ministry called Man Church. Going way back Sharks teeth found in north Alabama have helped scientists discover two more ancient species, reports AL.coms Howard Koplowitz. Teeth from the big fish were also found in Kentuckys Mammoth Cave. Mammoth Cave National Park officials said said the two sharks -- Troglocadodus trimblei and Glikmanium careforum -- swam near shorelines in north Alabama more than 325 million years ago. Thats so long ago that the continents have come together and then drifted back apart since. Times a changin Landline phones may be about to go the way of telephone booths. CNN recently reported on a filing by AT&T seeking permission to stop servicing traditional analog landline phones in California. Telephone-service providers are replacing old telephone lines with technology that doesnt work on landlines, and, lets face it, nobodys adding landlines anymore. Your kids already see old movies of someone dialing a rotary phone like we saw somebody hand-cranking a Model T from the front of the vehicle. AT&T said it isnt trying to cancel landline service in California. The plan is to offer customers an alternative to landlines that would convert analog to digital. Whatever happened to just picking up the phone receiver and saying Sarah, get me Juanita down at the diner? That was service. More Alabama news Born on this date In 1933, former 6-time LPGA tournament winner Jo Ann Prentice of Birmingham. One the calendar Heres a reminder that Valentines Day is Feb. 14. For those who may be seeking a cathartic release rather than romance, if you give a $25 donation to Purrfect Partners of Mobile, the folks there will name a feral cat after your ex-boyfriend or ex-husband. And then neuter it. The podcast When Harvest Church in Dothan was founded by Pastor Ralph Sigler in 1996, he aligned it with the United Methodist Church. When the growing congregation bought a 10-acre campus and built a 1,200-seat worship center, church leadership did not include a trust clause that made the United Methodist Alabama-West Florida Conference an owner of the property. We didnt put a trust clause on our documents, Sigler said. We never had United Methodist on our sign. When Harvest Church voted to leave the denomination in November 2022, it didnt think it owed the denomination any money. Some churches its size that decided to leave were paying settlements as high as $4 million to leave, he said. Most of the more than 1,600 people who attend the church weekly werent even aware of the United Methodist affiliation, Sigler said. The church is now independent, though Siegler said he has always considered it part of the Methodist Holiness movement, emphasizing the gifts of the Holy Spirit. It always has been on the conservative end of Methodist theology, he said. But the Alabama-West Florida Conference would not let the church leave without paying and going through procedures that other disaffiliating churches were required to follow. Now the case is in the state Supreme Court. On Wednesday, the Supreme Court heard arguments on Harvest Churchs claim to own its own property. The conference had asked a Houston County court to dismiss the case, saying it was a church matter and shouldnt be decided by the courts. The court did not dismiss it, and the conference appealed to the state Supreme Court. They appealed the refusal to dismiss, Sigler said. Sigler said Harvest Church leaders believe the United Methodist Church has failed to enforce its Book of Discipline bans on same-sex marriage and ordination of openly gay clergy since the 2016 election of the first openly lesbian bishop, Karen Oliveto. We are saddened by this litigation, but we are confident the process we have adhered to is fair and just, the conference said in a statement about its other lawsuit before the state Supreme Court involving a group of 45 churches that filed a lawsuit against the conference asking to leave. Those churches said Bishop David Graves had delayed the disaffiliation process trying to run out the clock to keep them from leaving. Those churches lost at the circuit court level when a judge ruled it was an internal church matter, but appealed to the state Supreme Court and are hoping for a hearing. A major deadline passed on Dec. 31 for the disaffiliation process that allowed 348 churches to leave the North Alabama Conference and 248 churches to leave the Alabama-West Florida Conference. The passing of the end-of-year deadline for disaffiliation makes it harder for churches to leave and take church property along with them in 2024. Nationwide, over the past four years, 7,600 congregations left the denomination 5,600 in 2023. Thats about a fourth of all United Methodist churches. They left under 2019 guidelines that made it possible for churches to negotiate to leave and take their property with them until the end of 2023. In Alabama, more than half of United Methodist congregations disaffiliated about 555 churches. Most of those departures have taken place since 2022. Sigler said that in documents filed every year with the conference, Harvest Church answered a questionnaire asking if the church had a trust agreement on its property with the conference. It said that it did not, Sigler said. We noted that every year, he said. The conference has argued in court that the church admits it did not follow conference rules on how to disaffiliate. Sigler said he believes the conferences refusal to let Harvest Church leave is just about money, but he says they have contributed plenty to the United Methodist Church in annual apportionments, which churches are asked to send to support denominational work. We paid $2.5 million in support to the denomination, Sigler said. Theyve already benefited quite a bit. See also: United Methodist disaffiliation deadline passes: retired Alabama bishop calls split traumatic United Methodist split: changing signs reflect upheaval United Methodist split: 45 churches who sued bishop to disaffiliate file appeal to state Supreme Court United Methodist split: 8 more churches disaffiliate, including 1 of Mobiles largest United Methodists urge repeal of ban on same-sex marriage, openly gay clergy United Methodists ask for loyalty from leaders, tighten rules on disaffiliation and downsize Another 132 North Alabama United Methodist churches disaffiliate: Trussville, Helena, Gardendale Division is of the devil, United Methodist bishop says as 193 churches disaffiliate A hearing into the status of Amtrak service between Mobile and New Orleans is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Wednesday in Washington, D.C., according to a filing Tuesday by the U.S. Surface Transportation Board. The STBs plan to move forward with the hearing comes less than one week after the parties involved in a 2022 settlement agreement requested the federal agency cancel it. The STB is now requesting the parties involved in the proposed agreement before them Amtrak, CSX Transportation, Norfolk Southern, and the Alabama State Port Authority attend, and provide an update on the implementation of a confidential agreement that includes a vow for Amtrak to resume service along the Gulf Coast for the first time since 2005. The board also invited the City of Mobile to participate, if it so chooses. Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson, in a letter to the STBs chairman Thursday, said that no one with city be attending. The city is not a part of the lawsuit, though its leaders including Stimpson have strongly vocalized support for the Port Authority. The Port, prior to the settlement agreement, were strong opponents to Amtraks return to the route. The City of Mobile is appreciative of your invitation to attend the hearing on February 14, but must decline, Stimpson said. As it stands, the City of Mobile and Amtrak are involved in forward moving negotiations on a weekly basis. Once we have reached an agreement we will be more than happy to provide the board with a status update. Maggie Oliver, a spokeswoman with the Port Authority, said that everyone involved in this process is working toward the same goal, including the STB. She said the Port continues to facilitate discussions with elected officials in support of the implementation of this project in Mobile, and looks forward in reiterating this commitment at the hearing. Marc Magliari, spokesman with Amtrak, said they also appreciate the boards continuing interest in establishing new service between New Orleans and Mobile and that they look forward to participating. CSX is also looking forward to participating in the hearing. CSX remains committed and has been working cooperatively with the other parties to advance the Gulf Coast passenger service, according to statement from CSX Transportation to AL.com. A Norfolk Southern spokesperson declined comment. The STBs hearing notice acknowledges the Feb. 1, status report in which the parties involved in the agreement asked the STB for no hearing take place. But the hearing notice does not address any of the issues raised in the six-page Feb. 1 filing. That Feb. 1 filing by Amtrak, CSX Transportation, Norfolk Southern and the Alabama State Port Authority, claimed that execution of a $175 million federal grant is proceeding well, and that the lengthy case before the STB over the fate of the Amtrak service could be dismissed by May 1. The hearing before the STB will mark the first time the federal body will be engaged on the Gulf Coast project since the settlement agreement happened in November 2022, more than 15 months ago. The Feb. 1, filing also illustrated a lease agreement that needs to be addressed in Mobile, including a train station that must be completed before twice-day service between New Orleans and Mobile can resume for the first time since 2005. The service will include twice-daily stops in four coastal Mississippi cities: Pascagoula, Biloxi, Gulfport, and Bay St. Louis. The filing did not provide an update on a cost-sharing plan with the City of Mobile. That proposal could be a hurdle because any financial outlay approved in Mobile requires at least five of seven votes from the city council. At least two council members have publicly expressed doubts or concerns about the project or Amtrak service in general. While Mississippi and Louisiana are contributing to the project, the State of Alabama has declined to do so. Amtrak and representatives with the Southern Rail Commission, shortly after the 2022 settlement much of what was confidential indicated the rail service would resume in 2023. The service is now believed to resume sometime later this year. Frustrations have been expressed on the slow process, and some of the blame has been directed at Mobile. Jim Mathews, president and CEO with Rail Passengers Association a Washington, D.C. non-profit that advocates for passenger rail service nationwide told AL.com in December that everyone is disappointed with the lack of progress, and that he felt opponents including the freight rails were attempting to run out the clock on the project. At Mobile city council meetings, there have been no discussions about Amtrak and no one from the public has raised any concerns about the delays during public meetings. An Amtrak station in Mobile requires the completion of a lease agreement between Mobile and Amtrak over the use of property in downtown Mobile at the foot of Government Street at Water Street and near Cooper Riverside Park. Amtrak is set to fund the project separate from projects that are supported by the $178 million federal Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) grant awarded by the Federal Railroad Administration toward the project in September. Amtrak, in the Feb. 1 filling, recognized that it will take the councils support to get the land lease approved. The Gulf Coast lawsuit remains a high-stakes case before the STB. For the first time in its 27-year history, the board is involved in determining the control of a U.S. rail line pitting Amtrak against freight operators. At the crux of the issue is whether a mandate established in 1971 should continue to require freight railroads to give passenger trains access to rail tracks in the U.S. During testimony in early 2022, experts said the Gulf Coast case could set a precedence for Amtraks operations nationwide because it mostly operates on tracks owned by freight companies. This story was updated at 4:43 p.m. on Feb. 8, 2024, with a statement from Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson. It was updated at 8:27 p.m. on Feb. 8, 2024, with a statement from the Port Authority. Hayley Milks was in a Miami hospital room, high on morphine and down one kidney, when she met her future husband. He sat by her bedside and thanked her. Her organ donation had just saved his brothers life. Hayley didnt know they would bond over being single parents her raising four girls, him the father of three or their messy divorces. She had no idea they would move in a few years or open a shop together. That her act of selflessness was about to be rewarded in a big way. David needs a kidney Lets start this medical meet-cute at the beginning. In early January 2019, Hayley was recovering from leaving a toxic marriage while running a yoga studio in Miami. It was not all oms and meditation, said Hayley, now 41. She was scrolling Instagram one night when she came across a post shared by a friend. Ive had enough, the post started. David is my fiance. He received a kidney and pancreas transplant in 2012 due to damage caused by his type 1 diabetes. However, three years ago, his body began to reject his new kidney. Since then, hes been receiving dialysis three days a week, each time feeling weaker and more affected ... If ANYONE is willing to be a live donor, please message me. David Montoto had Type O-positive blood. So did Hayley. She reached out to learn more that night. David and his fiancee, Melissa, took her to dinner. They brought a Tiffany necklace with a kidney bean on it, along with a note thanking her for even considering the operation. Hayley didnt hesitate after she met them. She took a test to see if her kidney was eligible for donation. David and Hayley were a 98.8% genetic match. Her parents were confused. They didnt understand why, when Hayley had four children, she didnt save her kidneys in case something happened to one of them. But Hayley had a different blood type from her kids. I told my parents, Part of the way that you guys raised me was if you have something and youre not using it, then you should share, she said. And my dad was like, Yeah, but we didnt mean organs. Hayley sold her yoga studio in May 2019 and started to prepare for the donation. She gave 70 vials of blood for tests, got iron infusions three times a week for her anemia, took a psych exam and underwent numerous scans. By July, it was time for surgery. The person that donates always has a harder recovery because theyre taking a perfectly healthy person and cutting them open, Hayley said. So my recovery was worse than any childbirth ... and Ive had four kids! The next day, Davids brother walked into her room. Like a fairy tale William Montoto is 6 feet, 5 inches tall, with a thick beard and a sweet smile. In the haze of her recovery, it was his height that Hayley noticed first. She tried to stand and greet him, forgetting that shed just had a major surgery. He rushed to her bed and shook her hand. William sat down and started talking. They connected over raising kids and being divorced and loving musicians like Gregory Alan Isakov. Its like the cogs of a watch, said William, now 40. Theyre just automatically moving together and fitting perfectly, and you dont know how it started or when it began. Two hours passed. Its funny because you watch these movies and its like, love at first sight and everything. Sound fades away behind you and all of that stuff. It sounds like a fairy tale thing, but for me, thats exactly what it was, William said. I didnt even remember that my sister was sitting right next to me for that time. And she tried to nudge me with her elbow, like, Hey, are you gonna go see your brother? I was like, Oh, yeah. Thats what I came here for. Finally, William went to check on his brother. David could tell something was up. He was like, Oh, man, that girl Hayley is really nice, he said. But it wasnt like, really nice to donate a kidney. It more like like, Shes very attractive. The whole time the brothers were together, William was thinking of reasons to justify visiting Hayley again. She was on the same page. I told my nurse, Get me out of this bed, get me showered, she said. If this guy comes back, I want to look decent. She had makeup on by the time William popped his head back into the room. Hey, do you know if they validate parking? he asked. How the fk should I know? she said. I just gave up this kidney. They talked for another 1 hours, until Hayleys dad and two of her daughters came by. If it were up to me, I would have never left her hospital room, William said. Ever since that day, Ive never wanted to be apart from her. Partners in love and business William messaged Hayley on Instagram a few days later. He cracked a joke about soup a callback to their first conversation and offered to buy school supplies for her girls. I was not expecting that at all, Hayley said. I was just like, Well, now I have this big extended family. I was so grateful for that because I only have my parents and, of course, my kids. ... I said to him, Oh, this is so cool. Because now I feel like I have all these brothers and a new sister. He messaged back: I hope you dont look at me as a brother. David was delighted when he heard Hayley and William had started dating. Someone who does that is very selfless and must have a kind heart, he said. You dont just do that if you dont have a bunch of kind qualities. But David did warn his brother: No matter what happens with you guys, Hayleys always going to be in my life, he said. She did something for me that nobody else would do. And Im going to be eternally grateful for as long as Im here. When coronavirus came to Florida, William lost his job as a banquet manager for The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne. He got a job with UPS, and then FedEx recruited him in 2021. He had to move to the Tampa Bay area. Hayley followed as soon as her girls were done with the school year and started making jewelry in Valrico that summer. She began selling it at local markets under the name BeadnikRow. I cannot even write my name straight. Cannot draw. I hate cooking and baking, she said. But for whatever reason, jewelry comes naturally for me. Through vending Tampa Bay Markets events and Shopapalooza, she made enough money to give her kids horseback riding lessons and take them on vacations. Without those events, we wouldnt be where we are today, William said. William quit his job. Inspired by Hayleys success, he started a smoothie and all-natural beverage company, CocoMos. At the end of 2023, the two opened their own brick-and-mortar shop in Plant City. Called CocoRow, it combines her one-of-a-kind pieces and his fresh fruit drinks. The couple got engaged in Key West in 2022 and were married at a courthouse the following spring. Theyll finally have a wedding celebration this summer with their families. Between seven kids and their businesses, life has been busy. But their favorite moments together are the simple ones. Well walk to the restaurant, talking about random things, William said. Well laugh about something that the kids did or will lay in bed watching a show. ... We can be in the same room together and not say a single word and completely be happy because we are together. As Hayley puts it: My life completely changed just because I decided to donate a kidney. Learn more How to be a donor: More than 90,000 people in the United States are waiting for a kidney donation, according to the National Kidney Registry. To learn more about becoming a live kidney donor and other ways to help, visit kidneyregistry.org. 2024 Tampa Bay Times. Visit tampabay.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. A 68-year-old Vietnam Veteran killed in his beloved recliner at the familys Chelsea home was stabbed more than a dozen times and then bludgeoned in the head with a claw hammer, Shelby County prosecutors said Thursday. Tracy Ward Austin was killed on March 5, 2018. A handyman and four time convicted felon is charged in Austins death. The capital murder trial for 68-year-old Randall Anthony Gargone began Thursday after three days of jury selection. Shelby County District Attorney Matt Casey, and assistant district attorneys Ben Fuller and Brooke Grigsby, are seeking the death penalty for Gargone if he is convicted. Gargones attorneys, Mickey Johnson and Victor Portella, claim Gargone killed Austin in self-defense. Though defendants on trial are afforded the opportunity wear street clothes to their trial as to not prejudice a jury, Garone opted to attend the trial in his orange Shelby County Jail uniform. He was moved to the jail in January from state prison to prepare for the trial. He is expected to take the stand in his own defense sometime next week. The brutal crime happened that Monday in the 5800 block of Shelby County Highway 39. In opening statements Thursday, prosecutor Grigsby took jurors through the events that led up to the murder. Several months before the killing, showed up at the home Austin shared with his elderly mother and his brother, offering handyman services. Austins mother had Gargone fix a broken kitchen door, but the family was not pleased with Gargones work. Several weeks later, Grigsby said, Gargone returned to the home asking for more work, but the family said no and sent him on his way. Unfortunately, Grigsby said, he came back uninvited and unwanted. On March 5, Ward entered the home and went to Austins bedroom. Austin suffered from the effects of Agent Orange and had numerous other health problems, the prosecutor said. He spent most of time in his recliner, where he even slept at night. It was then, Grigsby said, that Gargone attacked Austin with the knife and claw hammer. Austin was stabbed at least 12 times, including in the eye. He was also beaten in the head with the claw hammer. He tried to defend himself but its too much, Grigsby said. Tracy fought for his life in that moment, and he lost. Blood is everywhere, she said. Tracys blood is even dripped down the hall and in the bathroom, yet Tracy is dead in his recliner. Gargone fled the scene. The entire killing, the prosecutor said, took place over 13 minutes. It took him less than 13 minutes to brutally murder an innocent man, she said. Grigsby told the jurors the evidence would show that Gargones DNA was found under the victims fingernails, and his blood found on a washcloth in Austins recliner. Austins blood, she said, was found on the ignition of Gargones car. The suspect was seen later that same day washing his car at Mr. Car Wash in Inverness. The prosecutor said a forensic analysis of Gargones computer turned up interesting searches, including, How long does it take for DNA evidence to come back? I am confident, Grigsby said to the jurors, we will leave you no doubt that this man committed capital murder. The victims mother has since died, but his brother is expected to be among the witnesses. Portella, in his opening statement for the defense, pointed out Gargones criminal history which includes two theft convictions and two robbery convictions. Gargone was sentenced in 1999 to life in prison and paroled in 2013. The lawyer said his client had gone five years with no legal trouble, but said he struggled to find work since he was a convicted felon and relied on odd jobs to pay the bills. Gargone, the lawyer said, saw Austins mother struggling to take her garage can to the street one day and stopped to help her. He then asked if she had any work that need to be done, and she asked him to work on an ATV she used to take the garbage out, and to fix the kitchen screen door. Portella said Gargone repaired the door but needed another part and planned to return. He said Gargone went back the home several times before March 5. On that day, Portella said, Gargone knocked on the door and heard someone say something like, Up here. He said Gargone had never met Austin before. He went up to the bedroom and bent down to talk to Austin. When he did, he gets hit in the head, Portella said. Not once but twice with a claw hammer. A fight broke out. He was defending himself, the lawyer said. Hes going to take the stand and tell his story. Hes not saying he was never there. His DNA will be all over the place, Portella said. A felon has a right to protect himself. An Idaho lawmaker wants to expand a law that bans cannibalism over fears about a rise in human composting. State Rep. Heather Scott, R-Blanchard, introduced a bill Thursday to expand the states cannibalism ban and told a legislative committee that shes worried about the possibility that people are eating other people. This is going to be normalized at some point, the way our societys going and the direction were going, Scott said. Idaho is the only state to outlaw cannibalism, according to Encyclopaedia Britannica. Other states have laws targeting abuse or desecration of a corpse, according to Cornell Law School. Scotts bill would add to Idahos prohibition of cannibalism a ban on giving someone else the flesh or blood of a human being without that persons knowledge or consent. Scott said she has been disturbed by the practice of human composting, which has been legalized in several states as another option for dealing with remains that may be more sustainable than other burial methods and reduce a persons carbon footprint. But she said outlawing composting would require overhauling rules for morticians, and so instead focused on deliberately giving another person human flesh. I didnt want to see that in my Home Depot stores, Scott said. Human composting is the practice of decomposing human remains like other organic matter and turning it into soil that can be returned to the family or used for land. Scott said she was on an airplane over the summer and watched a clip from a television show displaying a chef feeding human flesh in sausage to contestants, which inspired her to do something about it. The clip, which she sent to the Idaho Statesman, is from a TruTV prank show, in which they pretend to feed people flesh. They didnt tell the people, they fed it to them, Scott told the Statesman, though she noted it may have been a spoof. Scott also sent a link to a video featuring a Chinese official denying that his country had sold canned human flesh to people in Zambia. The story was a hoax, spread with fake photos of butchery, according to news reports from 2016. Scott additionally pointed to a North Idaho man who pleaded guilty to murder last year and was initially also charged with cannibalism after investigators found postmortem mutilation and a bloodied bowl at the crime scene. The cannibalism charge was later dropped, according to the Spokesman-Review. ______ 2024 Idaho Statesman. Visit at idahostatesman.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Marco Perez was found guilty Thursday of capital murder in the death Mobile police officer Sean Tuder in January 2019. A Mobile County jury decided Perez had known Tuder was a police officer when he shot Tuder three times with a stolen .44 caliber Smith & Wesson handgun at the Peach Place Inn on Jan. 20, 2019. Tuder had been one of several Mobile police officers searching for Perez, who was 19 at the time and wanted on multiple warrants, including federal gun charges on which he was ultimately convicted and sentenced to 25 years. The day of his murder, Tuder had agreed to work on what was normally a day off after receiving information that Perez had been spotted at the Peach Place Inn on Jeff Hamilton Road in Mobile. Tuder had been among the officers tracking Perez whereabouts in order to take him into custody. Mobile police Sgt. Dorothea George testified Tuder was often called upon to assist when police were seeking someone, which is why he was brought into the Perez case. Perez attorneys used the fact Tuder had arrived at the Peach Place Inn wearing civilian clothes and driving an unmarked vehicle as evidence Perez did not know Tuder was a police officer and was acting in self-defense. Several witnesses, however, testified Tuder was visibly wearing his badge, according to numerous media reports and jurors clearly believed the prosecutions contention that Perez was desperate to avoid capture -- so much so he had already attempted to fake his own kidnapping. Now jurors will be tasked with determining whether Perez will face the death penalty or be sentenced to life in prison. If sentenced to death, he will become the 165th person on Alabamas death row, according to the Alabama Department of Corrections. At 24 years old, he would also be the youngest by six years. This king and queen of the Mobile Carnival Association for Mardi Gras 2024 dont currently live in their hometown of Mobile, but this season has definitely rekindled their love of the Mother of the Mystics as the spotlight envelopes them in earnest. Im glad I got out of Mobile for a little bit, but Im getting close to being ready to move back, said King Felix III Will Slaton from his current home of Richmond, Virginia, where the University of Alabama graduate works in sales. His queen, Elizabeth Helmsing, is currently pursing nursing at the Capstone in Tuscaloosa, but cant wait to fold herself into the full Carnival experience, complete with dozens of friends and family members many who were members of past Mardi Gras courts. This year marks the 25th anniversary of her fathers reign as King Felix III. Authorities in eastern Tennessee were searching early Friday for a suspect they say was involved in a shooting that killed one sheriffs deputy and left another wounded. Warrants have been issued for 42-year-old Kenneth Dehart, who is wanted on suspicion of first degree murder, attempted first degree murder and being a felon in possession of a firearm after the Thursday evening shooting, Blount County Sheriff James Lee Berrong said in posts on the departments Facebook page. Deputy Greg McCowan, 43, was killed in the shooting during a traffic stop. A female officer was shot in the leg and returned fire. Deputy Shelby Eggers, 22, was treated at a hospital and released to recover at home, Berrong said. NEW: Here's an update from the Blount County Sheriff's Office regarding the reward for information leading to the arrest of Kenneth DeHart. #TNBlueAlert #TNMostWanted pic.twitter.com/gXhNU5Mwth Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (@TBInvestigation) February 9, 2024 This is the hardest thing Ive ever done. We had an officer killed tonight, Berrong said during a news conference in which he was visibly upset. Im so sorry that weve lost a young man. I talked to his family earlier. I apologized for not protecting him. A reward of more than $60,000 has been offered for information that leads to an arrest, Berrong said. Were going to get this man off the streets of east Tennessee and put him behind bars, he said. Multiple law enforcement agencies were involved in the hunt for Dehart, who should be considered armed and dangerous and should not be approached if spotted, the sheriffs office said. Dehart was last seen in the city of Maryville, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation said on social media. McCowan began his career as a deputy in 2020 after graduating from a regional law enforcement training class, Berrong said Friday. The deputy excelled in his class and was commended in 2021 for helping save the life of a man trapped in a burning vehicle. Deputy McCowan was always smiling and friendly to everyone, he said. Deputy McCowan was a hero both in life and in his death. Maryville is in Blount County and located about 17 miles (27 kilometers) south of Knoxville. An Alabama inmate is suing the states parole board, arguing he was paroled but never released from prison. Alabama decided to parole Kenneth Dale Davis in 2018, giving him a shot to start over. But when Davis tried to leave prison, he was told he couldnt. By the time his case came before the board again in 2021, Alabama had stopped granting the vast majority of paroles. The state denied his parole in 2021. I feel like I was ready for society. I had a chance to get my courage up, Davis said about that last hearing. He said hes been living on an emotional roller coaster since 2018. Now Davis is suing the parole board, arguing he should be released from prison based on that 2018 yea vote and placed on parole. He filed a lawsuit in March 2023, but a Montgomery County court rejected his argument. The case is currently pending before the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals. Read more about the parole board here. The Board made a good decision when it decided to parole Dale, said his lawyer, Frank Ozment, and the Board made a legal mistake when it caused ADOC to keep him in custody after he was paroled, Ozment said. Davis lawsuit argues the board grants parole to a person, and not to a particular sentence. But the state disagrees, saying Davis was only paroled on some of his cases and not everything he was imprisoned for. The state argues the case comes down to timing. Davis, 54, is serving 20 years for a string of car thefts and carjackings. His story starts in Walker County northwest of Birmingham. Davis said in 2013 he and another man had a disagreement over the purchase of a truck. He didnt pay everything he owed, Davis told AL.com, but he took the truck anyway. That incident ended with Davis dumping the car, then hitchhiking before carjacking a person to get away. He eventually dumped that car, too, and ran from the police. While that case was pending, Davis stole another car. In 2014, Davis said he held a man at knifepoint in Jefferson County and stole his truck. He said he was on drugs at the time of both crimes. God it sounds so awful, Davis said quietly over the prison phone after explaining his crime. Im sorry I did what I did. I wasnt in my right mind. Im not I know it sounds like Im a horrible person, but I promise Im not. The Jefferson County case wrapped up quickly. He pleaded guilty to second-degree robbery and was sentenced to 20 years in prison in 2015. He went to prison in 2014. Years went by. And in the summer of 2018, Davis got parole. But not really. The Alabama Attorney Generals Office, representing the parole board, argued in a court filing that the board sent out its required 30-day notice notifications in the Jefferson County case in June 2018 and then did grant parole to Davis in August. But a few weeks before the parole hearing in August, and after the notifications had been sent out in June, Davis was convicted in the Walker County case. It didnt matter that the case happened years prior it only mattered that the conviction was final that year. In 2018, Davis pleaded guilty to third-degree robbery in Walker County, along with breaking into a vehicle. Court records dont reflect what took the court system so long to adjudicate that case. The board did not consider (Davis) 2018 convictions when it granted him parole, the state said. The AGs Office said the board couldnt have considered those cases because of the timing. State law requires 30 day notices for parole hearings, and the Walker County convictions hadnt been final for 30 days by the time of his initial parole hearing. Despite his lawsuit, Davis remains in prison. Hes currently incarcerated at the North Alabama Community Work Center, held in minimum-security custody. He had another chance at parole in 2021. People can turn their lives around, as Dale has, and keeping those people incarcerated does nothing to reduce crime, said his lawyer, Ozment. According to his lawsuit, Davis has improved his prison record since last being granted parole in 2018, and had no disciplinary infractions during that period. But when he came up for parole again in 2021, he was denied. The Board erred when it denied his parole despite his previous parole and improved prison record, said Ozment. When asked what he would have told the board at that 2021 hearing, Davis said this: I would tell them Ive had enough I havent resorted back to the old problem I had. The state said in a court filing that when Davis was again considered for parole in November 2021, the board had every right to deny him. Board members cited the severity of the 2018 offenses and the negative input of stakeholders. In Alabama, inmates do not get to attend their parole hearings. Records show no one showed up to protest Davis release at the 2021 hearing. A representative from a re-entry program spoke in support of his release, and a representative from the Alabama Attorney Generals Office spoke against. Hes not set to be considered again until November 2025. Ive been working on myself a whole lot, said Davis. He said hes sober and has taken classes on anger management, conflict resolution and more. Davis talked quickly, trying to tell five decades worth of stories before the 15-minute prison phone call ended. Im not the same person. Im just an old man who wants to get home to his grandkids. See all of our parole stories here. A man suspected of capital murder in Huntsville was caught in Wednesday in Texas after nearly two months on the run, authorities said Thursday. Travis Blackburn, 42, was wanted in connection with the fatal shooting of Jacobley Moore, 31. Moore was found shot on Fairview Farm Way around 2 a.m. Dec. 11 and later died of his injuries. Blackburn was apprehended near Austin, Texas on Wednesday, by the U.S. Marshals Services Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force and the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force, said Huntsville Police Department spokeswoman Sydney Martin. Blackburn was booked into the Williamson County Jail in Georgetown, Texas. He is expected to be extradited to Huntsville at a later date and booked into the Madison County Jail on the capital murder charge, Martin said. Further information was unavailable and the investigation was ongoing. Jilted ex-lovers can take out revenge without involving the police this Valentines Day by giving a $25 donation to a Mobile cat rescue group. PURRfect Partners of Mobile will name a feral cat theyve captured after your ex before neutering the tom and releasing the newly snipped feline back into the community. Lets have some fun! Donate $25 and we will name a feral cat after your ex and give them the snip snip! the organization said in announcing the promotion last week. After donating, send an email to info@ppomcats.org with the name of your Ex. We were able to provide TNR (trap, neuter, return) services for 199 cats in 2023, but it takes significant funding, the group said on its Facebook page Thursday night. Lets beat that number in 2024! As of early Thursday evening, the group raised $255. PURRfect Partners of Mobile could not immediately be reached for further comment. A roundup of conversations we're having daily on the site. Subscribe to the Reckon Daily for stories centering marginalized communities and speaking to the under-covered issues of the moment. LGBTQ+ advocates have settled with the city of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, terminating an anti-queer ordinance that banned all events including drag shows, pride celebrations and parades organized by the Tennessee Equality Project, the founder and host of the annual BoroPride Festival. The American Civil Liberties Union, ACLU of Tennessee, and law firms Ballard Spahr and Burr & Forman sued the city on Oct. 6 for discrimination and censorship of the queer community. On Wednesday, advocates announced that Murfreesboro officials agreed to repeal the ordinance and accept all permits from TEP in addition to paying $500,000 in restitution. We celebrate the resolution of this case because it has guaranteed the rollback of a discriminatory policy and affirmed our right to host BoroPride, said TEP executive director Chris Sanders in a statement. Now we can turn our attention to preparing for the 2024 BoroPride festival and defending the rights of LGBTQ+ Tennesseans at the state legislature. The lawsuit was filed in Tennessee last year after advocates noted a concerted anti-LGBTQ+ year-long campaign by City Manager Craig Tindall and Murfreesboro Mayor Shane McFarland. The city of Murfreesboro denied BoroPride a permit in November 2022 after Tindall accused the festival of exposing children to a harmful prurient interest, the Tennessean reported. TEP has hosted the event for 7 years. Following that, the city issued an ordinance, described as sweeping and vague by opponents, attempting to censor homosexuality and queer speech and conduct in the community, including banning some books from public libraries. Last November, city officials quietly amended the ordinance, removing homosexuality from the definition of sexual conduct, after the ACLU and other organizations filed the lawsuit. The Murfreesboro City Council repealed the rule completely in late December. Tindall, responsible for issuing the bans last year, will be forbidden from reviewing any of TEPs future requests. The government has no right to censor LGBTQ+ people and expression, the ACLU and attorneys said in a joint statement. This settlement sends a clear message that the citys discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community was blatantly unconstitutional and that this type of behavior will no longer be tolerated here or anywhere across the country. This is one of a recent slew of First Amendment battles for the Tennessean queer community. In May, the city of Franklin tried to ban conduct that did not align with generally accepted community standards of behavior. This included the citys annual pride festival and drag shows. The unpopular proposal was shot down after dozens attended council meetings to protest. More than 500 anti-LGBTQ bills were introduced in state legislatures across the U.S. last year, with legislation attempting to reduce gender-affirming care for transgender children and ban drag shows. Less than one-fifth of those proposals became law in 2023. The Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board voted unanimously on Monday to implement a waiting period for state prisoners to argue their sentence is unjust or excessive. The administrative rules change, which must receive final approval from the Legislature to take effect, requires prisoners to serve the lesser of five years in prison or one-third of their sentence to become eligible for commutation. Current guidelines allow nearly all state prisoners to seek commutation, but they must wait at least three years to reapply if the board rejects their application. Pardon and Parole Board staff loosened eligibility criteria following a Jan. 8 public comment hearing where dozens of speakers raised concerns. Absent from the final proposal are four prerequisites that would have required most prisoners to receive a favorable recommendation from a trial official or the governor before applying for commutation. The three-year waiting period for reapplication after receiving an unfavorable recommendation remains in effect, though a new provision allows the board to vote to bar reapplication for five years if a prisoner receives two consecutive adverse decisions. We went back and took a look at things and we think we found a good middle road to address all of the concerns of our constituencies, board chairman Edward Konieczny said. Thank you to the public for being here and offering your comments. Morgan Hale, the managing attorney for Project Commutation, said the organization is thrilled with the final version of the rules change. She said the minimum-time-served requirement would not affect eligibility for the vast majority of prisoners the Tulsa-based nonprofit represents. The board initially scheduled 20 minutes for public comment, but it lasted more than three-and-a-half hours, Hale said. I think that shows Oklahomans really were not going to sit around and let them do whatever, and they really did care to come and advocate for those inside. Commutation recipient Kara Chapman traveled 200 miles round trip to address the board on Jan. 8. She said she was pleased with the outcome and is encouraged that prisoners in a similar situation will have an opportunity for early release. When youre in prison, a lot of times it feels like you dont have a voice, Chapman said. So to come out there and have people like the Parole Board listen and take what I have to say as valuable, that is an amazing feeling. District attorneys have commonly scrutinized Oklahomas commutation process, designed to correct an unjust or excessive sentence, after commutation recipient Lawrence Paul Anderson murdered three people in Chickasha in February 2021. An Oklahoma County grand jury investigation released in May 2022 found that Anderson was improperly placed on the commutation docket in August 2019 after the board rejected a previous application of his two months earlier. In a summary statement filed with the Oklahoma Secretary of States Office in December, Pardon and Parole Board counsel Kyle Counts wrote that commutation eligibility requirements would promote fairness, transparency, efficiency and consistency in the boards procedures. In a December interview, executive director Tom Bates said the board is regularly inundated with applications that have little or no merit. Can sentences be excessive? Bates said. Yes. Were just trying to put some guardrails and determinations around that. Oklahoma Watch, at oklahomawatch.org, is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that covers public-policy issues facing the state. English News China's PV industry contributes to global green development Alwihda Info | Par pd - 8 Fevrier 2024 In recent years, the Bank of China (BOC) has been involved in various solar power projects, such as the Al Dhafra PV2 solar project in the United Arab Emirates and the 300 MW Sakaka solar PV project in Saudi Arabia. Last year, the bank issued a $500 million green bond with a focus on the Belt and Road Initiative. By Guan Kejiang, People's Daily Newly installed solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity is expected to reach 375 gigawatts globally in 2023, growing 31.8 percent year on year, said an annual report recently issued by the International Energy Agency. China's solar PV installations last year equaled to the world's total in 2022. Demetrios Papathanasiou, global director for the World Bank's Energy and Extractives Global Practice, believes that developing the solar PV industry is crucial for addressing climate change and promoting energy transition. At the 28th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) held last year, the development of solar energy was one of the key topics discussed. The agreement reached at the COP28 for the first time acknowledged the decreasing costs and technological innovations in solar energy, wind energy, and energy storage, recognizing their potential in achieving climate goals. It called on countries to transition away from fossil fuels in a just, orderly, and fair manner within the energy system. In recent years, the global PV industry has been experiencing rapid growth. According to relevant statistics, the average annual growth of PV installations worldwide reached 28 percent from 2019 to 2023. Consulting firm Wood Mackenzie said that solar energy has become the most cost-competitive energy source in most countries. The PV industry is expected to maintain a high growth rate over the next decade. Former Vice Chair of the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, Mohan Munasinghe, noted that sustainable development is a crucial challenge for human society. The continuous innovation and growing advantages of solar PV technology provide developing countries with options for achieving economic sustainability, transitioning to clean energy, and protecting the environment. The Francisco Pizarro PV plant in Extremadura, Spain, began operation in 2022 and is one of the largest operational PV power stations in Europe. All the solar panels used in this plant were sourced from China. In Garissa County, Kenya, the Garissa solar power plant constructed by a Chinese company, has effectively addressed the issue of electricity shortage in the local area, providing continuous clean electricity to local residents. In recent years, the Bank of China (BOC) has been involved in various solar power projects, such as the Al Dhafra PV2 solar project in the United Arab Emirates and the 300 MW Sakaka solar PV project in Saudi Arabia. Last year, the bank issued a $500 million green bond with a focus on the Belt and Road Initiative. Pan Xinyuan, general manager of Bank of China Dubai Branch, said that China, as the world's largest producer of solar components, has a leading advantage in solar project construction. Chinese banks, as a bridge connecting production capacity and market demand, can play a positive role in promoting global energy transformation. Fatih Birol, executive director of the International Energy Agency, noted that China has achieved remarkable success in the development of clean energy, such as solar and wind power, as well as the electric vehicle industry, making it a champion in the field of clean energy. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, minister of Industry and Advanced Technology of the United Arab Emirates and president-designate of the COP28, emphasized that China's continuous leadership in clean energy technology is a crucial factor in facilitating global energy transition, addressing climate change, and promoting development. Xiao Jinyu, deputy director-general of Economic and Technology Research Institute, Global Energy Interconnection Development and Cooperation Organization, said in an interview with People's Daily that China has elevated the acceleration of renewable energy development to a level of ensuring national energy security and strengthening ecological progress, achieving rapid progress in a short period of time. It is exactly because of China's vigorous development of renewable energy that the cost of solar power generation has decreased by nearly 90 percent globally in recent years, and wind power cost by 80 percent. Ahmed Mohamed Mohina, vice minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy of Egypt, said that the Chinese solution is of great significance to global energy transition and climate governance. It provides feasible solutions for African and Arab countries to promote energy transition, stimulate economic development, and improve ecological environment. Erik Solheim, vice president of the Belt and Road Initiative International Green Development Coalition and former UN under-secretary-general, noted that China has made significant contributions to the global development of renewable energy. It has also provided innovative driving forces for the economic development and green and low-carbon transformation of developing countries. Dans la meme rubrique : < > China's cruise economy embraces rapid development China still considered favorable investment destination by foreign companies China will remain staunch force for peace, stability, progress of world Pour toute information, contactez-nous au : +(235) 99267667 ; 62883277 ; 66267667 (Bureau N'Djamena) FBI Director Christopher Wray recently warned America about a possible Chinese cyberattack on our electric grid, transportation centers, and energy facilities that would almost destroy our economy. The impact of such an attack is hardly hypothetical -- countless schools, hospitals and private firms have been hit with such attacks and millions in ransom has been paid to hackers. Director Wrays warning singles out our industrial infrastructure such as oil refineries, but left unmentioned in his Armageddon is Americas social service network (the safety nets) that keeps millions afloat financially while meeting their food needs. Critically, few think of all these national and state agencies as part of our vital infrastructure, and so relatively little is invested in protecting them from cyberattack. Nevertheless, measured by both impact and vulnerability, the inflicted damage may far exceed shutting down air travel or disrupting hospitals. Particularly consequential would be disrupting the governments program to supply food to those with low incomes. the most important is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly called food stamps. The program is administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture with the participation of state agencies. Food stamps began in 1964 to help farmers while improving nutrition for low-income Americans. SNAP benefits reflect a familys size, income and expenses and is automatically placed in credit card-like Electronic Benefit Cards. In 2023, some 42.1 million Americans, on average, participated in the SNAP program at a cost of $113 billion dollars (with some exceptions, families with a gross monthly income of $3000 or less are eligible). SNAP has generally expanded, especially under President Biden, and covers nearly all food a family might need except for tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, pet food, already cooked food, medicine, and diapers. In 2020, 27% of SNAP recipients were Black. Like all government programs, it occasionally stumbles. For example, recipients in Georgia recently had their payments delayed due to administrative glitches. Severe weather can also disrupt the transfer of funds as was recently illustrated in several Nebraska counties that lost power due to storms and tornadoes. In both instances, however, the federal government facilitated a quick recovery, and the problems were solved. But what if Chinese hackers successfully disrupted the entire SNAP network? In an instant millions of Americans across the entire country, all lined up with shopping carts overflowing with food for the next week or two were told, Sorry, your EBT card failed to work. Do you have another form of payment? Thousands of frantic messages from local SNAP administrators to Washington would be told, The entire network is down, we have no idea how to fix it, and it may take weeks to get it running again. Since most poor people lack alternative sources of funds such as a credit card or cash, and that many of these SNAP recipients live hand-to-mouth, this collapse is catastrophic. A few may reply on savings or borrowing from friends and family, but for millions, the adage people are only seven missed meals away from murder now becomes relevant. This is especially true if children depend on SNAP to provide food. America will suddenly resemble famine-plagued Africa, and alternative sources of food such as free foodbanks will quickly become depleted. Faced with starvation, mass looting and violence are likely, particularly in cities like Baltimore, Detroit, Chicago, Newark, N.J., and dozens more that already experienced these disorders. Word will quickly spread to fellow other shoppers that their EBT cards dont work, and the mayhem will commence. Some just leave the store without paying, groceries in hand. Others will quickly return to shopping to stock up before the shelves go bare. Store security will be helpless to stop this stampede and calling the police is futile -- no cops will arrest dozens of shoppers fleeing with free merchandise. Most urban police forces have repeatedly seen this movie -- arresting criminals can be a recipe for rioting. Thanks to cell phones and word-of-mouth, the riot is on. With no prospect of government-paid-for food, looting becomes survival. Shoplifters who once favored Dior handbags scoop up Spam. Thousands of small local food stores, many of whom are owned and run by immigrants accustomed to a shoplifting clientele, will be overrun by the desperate. None of this is new -- food riots are historically commonplace, so yet one more feature of the Third World has arrived in America. Especially in crime-ridden inner cities, gangs will soon take control of food supplies to restore a semblance of order. They might even battle each other for control, and many American cities will come to resemble present-day Haiti. Government will be defenseless against millions of Americans desperate for food. Frantic public officials might ask chain supermarkets to remain open and distribute food for free with a promise of future federal reimbursement, but this solution -- if ever implemented -- would suffice for only briefly given resupply problems. Nor could mobilizing the National Guard restore order. Worse, after the big-city Wal-Marts and Costcos are depleted, desperate shoppers might invade wealthy suburbs and feast on prime beef and imported delicacies. Trucks carrying food will be stopped and ransacked. With suburban markets exhausted, the homes of the wealthy are next. A week or two may pass before the federal government can establish free food distribution centers as they now do in sub-Sahara Africa. Even if the Department of Agricultures computer system is fixed (or the ransom paid) it may be months before the food distribution system returns to normal. Many looted supermarkets are almost unusable, food warehouses a total mess and resupplying cities may require armed convoys since stores are not yet restocked. As occurred in the race-related riots of the 1960s, some cities may never fully recover. Damage will be measured in trillions. Whether our Chinese enemies are inspired by this possibility, is uncertain. But those who run SNAP and similar food-related programs will likely be oblivious. In 2021, the Department of Agriculture that administers the SNAP program held a conference to announce a $5 billion program to strengthening their services. Conclave participants included experts from the food industry, nutrition and food security, unions and representatives from farm organizations, food workers and nutrition researchers. Predictably, reversing climate change was paramount, together with expanding government largess. Following countless discussions, these experts concluded, equity and inclusion are central to all USDAs efforts. USDA is advancing equity and inclusion in food systems by supporting historically underserved farmers and ranchers, farm and food workers, business owners and communities; strengthening resilient supply chains and local and regional food systems; and building a fair marketplace for all producers. Nothing was said about cybersecurity. One can only wonder how all the talk of sustainability ignored the vulnerability of Americas free food system. Perhaps like children accustomed to well-stocked supermarkets, Department of Agriculture functionaries happily assume that complex computer networks will always be there, as if Mother Nature herself guaranteed it. Image: Mike Mozart Last year, I had to go to an IRS office. I was subjected to a humiliating pat down for weapons. It was uncomfortable, invasive, and intimidating. The guard wouldnt just pat me down, either. He had to announce the nature of each pat before he did it...which further irritated me. After all that, the office couldnt even handle my trust and estate tax questions. Never again. If I ever have to visit that IRS office again, Im putting on a dress (not shaving anything), slapping lipstick on my teeth, putting on a blue wig...and arriving like Jim Carrey in Vera DeMilo drag. Hi, big boy, Im ready for my pat-down now! If Im going to be made uncomfortable with a pat-down, everybody will be uncomfortable. And if they complain, I will scream transphobia at the top of my lungs. The Democrats want speed governors on cars. Fine all Republicans need to start driving the exact posted speed limit...at all times. If being on time is white supremacy and 45% of the population starts to drive the exact speed limit all the time, it shouldnt be a problem, right? But as someone whos driven in large liberal cities, I can tell you that Democrats seem to be late for everything. Simply driving the speed limit is a much more effective protest than gluing yourself to the pavement...and it cant be targeted by law enforcement. Yes, driving the speed limit in Atlanta or Indianapolis is dangerous. But when you get rear-ended, the wreck is automatically the other guys fault, and you already can sing the accident injury attorneys phone number. Better yet, get a Biden bumper sticker on a magnet strip to slap on your bumper while driving the speed limit in a liberal city. Make sure Democrats always get the blame for your annoying behavior. Pronouns provide the perfect ground for passive-aggressive resistance. If you see someone wearing a pronoun pin, use his pronouns, both of them. Examples: Hi hershe, how are you today? Good morning, hehim, could you please give me directions? Okay, theythem, Im going to need to speak to your supervisor. If theythem tries to correct you No, its they OR them apologize, Oh, Im sorry theyORthem, I didnt mean to offend theyORthemself. When asked your pronouns, make your political positions into your gender identity. Tell them you self-identify as TransCisTrumpGender, and your pronouns are ILoveTrump/TrumpisAwesome. Do this in government offices or a college class for extra fun. If they call you white, hold a sheet of paper next to your skin and say Are my arm and this paper the same color? No. The paper is white. I am harvest peach! Resistance is dressing like a liberal and going to a public meeting, and using your two minutes to deliver a word salad about how the board should address the marginalization of Corsican brine shrimp in the Yangtze River or something equally irrelevant. And really go heavy with the word salad: use your public comment time to pack in as many Democrat buzzwords as possible. Take all your friends. Make a night of it. Crash the city council meeting and serve up a full half-hour of word salad, two minutes at a time. In other words, waste their time, energy, and money. If you cant vote them out, waste their time with things they said were important. Take a gender studies class at the local college, and flood their diversity office with complaints about how your transcistrumpgenderness isnt being catered to enough. If your kids school installs litter boxes, go to the parent teacher meeting, and use the litter box. Do a number 2, and eat at McDonalds for a few meals beforehand. If your kids school board is considering installing litter boxes, dress like a cat and go to the meeting. During the meeting, go up to the boards table and knock something off it, and then look at them with a blank stare. Then knock something else off the table. Make sure to meow loudly all the way to the police station. Ask the Starbucks barista for certification that the coffee you are about to consume was grown ethically. Ask that at the drive-thru. Get a job working for Klaus Schwab, and make a mess of the break room microwave by warming up a Tupperware container full of grasshoppers. Stop saying abortion, and start calling it sacrificing unborn babies to Molech. But dont pray outside their sacrifice centers unless you have eleven extra years to spend in prison. Dont grab a flag and go to Washington or Texas, either. Nothing to be gained by that. Theres a million ways to resist, passive-aggressively or slightly less passive-aggressively, the elderly globalists and their communist youth. All of them can be done by doing exactly what they want you to do...maybe a little too much. Image: Kevin Payravi via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0 (cropped). The latest numbers from Gallup have a lot of Democrats wondering whatever happened to that theory about demographics making them the permanent majority. Why are the elephants in a good mood and the "burros" (donkeys in Spanish) in sour mood? Let's check the latest from Gallup: The data show the Democratic Party retaining advantages among people of color and young adults, but in 2023 it was in a weaker position among these groups than at any point in the past quarter century. Democrats reduced support among Black and Hispanic adults should be especially concerning for the party, given Republicans continued strength among White adults, who remain the majority of the electorate. Yes, the Democrats are still leading but the lead is shrinking. Why is it shrinking? The answer is complicated, but let me give you a few ideas. For much of the Trump era, the Democrats have tried to scare people by claiming that he is a dictator, a "racista," an insurrectionist, or whatever other noun is in vogue. The problem is that most Hispanics don't remember such a presidency. What they remember is a good economy, stable prices, especially gasoline, a better situation on the border, and a more stable world. The last one is very important because many Hispanics have sons and daughter in military service. Pay a visit to a military base and see for yourself. So a lot of Democrats sound like the kid who cried wolf. After a while, no one paid attention to the kid, as we learned from Aesop's Fables. Another issue is the chaos on the border. Go to Del Rio, Texas, or Chicago and you can see how Hispanics and Afro-Americans are being devastated by a migrant crisis that did not have to happen. Time will tell, but the Democrats have reasons to worry. Scaring their constituents about Trump is not working. This is because more and more of their constituents are paying the price of Bidens policies. P.S. Check out my blog for posts, podcasts and videos. Image: SHUVADIP As the Year of the Dragon approaches, the festive atmosphere in Hefei gradually becomes more pronounced. The market in Chenghuang Temple is filled with joyful Chinese New Year goods. The bustling citizens happily select their New Year supplies, preparing to welcome the Chinese New Year. Every sequence of time has its golden epoch. For radio, more specifically on the AM side of the dial, its half-century run from its advent at KDKA in Pittsburgh in the 1920s to the late 1970s. AM was king -- the internet of its era. My AM salad days included legendary DJs Cousin Brucie on WABC and Wolfman Jack on WNBC, both homegrown Brooklynites. However, it wasnt until I heard the crackle of traffic and weather together on the eights with Lou Timolat of WCBS, that I was introduced to the true power of amplitude modulation. It happened on the evening of our move to Pennsylvania from New York. Dad may have physically moved but he was still tethered to the city in many ways and continuing to tune in WCBS news on the dial during dinner was one of them. Fast forward to the 21st Century and some car companies have made it a point to stop installing AM radios in new models. Is AM radio destined to go the way of eight-tracks, cassettes, CD players, ashtrays, and cigarette lighters? Not if Congress has its way. Surprisingly, bipartisan support resonates on both sides of the aisle as lawmakers want to mandate that AM radio is available in all new vehicles. Why is this a surprise? Because AM radio has a longstanding lineup of conservative talk up and down the dial. Abolish AM is the cry from the Electric Vehicle (EV) crusade. Apparently, the static produced by an EV interferes with AMs reception. This makes AM expendable, according to the EV honchos and the green energy lobby who desire everything electric -- minus a border fence. Automakers are also howling about the cost as if this is some coerced satellite radio program that is nearly impossible to cancel. In actuality, the AM receiver is the most inexpensive feature on a car apart from the glove compartment. The car companies have already lobbied more money fighting this than they could possibly save. Thanks to consolidation within the radio industry, AM radio may be the only local broadcast option for many throughout rural America, where it is the only clear and consistent signal. Moreover, many locales have poor FM reception and spotty cell-phone service. AM radio stations are like the local post offices and a historical part of Americas greatness. Most of all, AM radio has been the anchor of the emergency communication network since its inception. Government plans for high-impact events like an attack on critical infrastructure that is more interconnected than ever before. As such, the potential for catastrophe has only increased. Nothing matches amplitude modulation, especially when streaming is unavailable. FM stations are limited to line of sight and use much more bandwidth than AM stations, which possess a much greater reach. Trusting a smartphone for emergency broadcasts over a network that is susceptible to the elements and can get easily overwhelmed makes you a victim in waiting. The incremental cost of AM reception is negligible -- no subscription required. AM s viability and fate should be left in the hands of the market, not the auto industry or politicians. If market forces applied, EVs would be withering on the vine along with plenty of other government-subsidized businesses. Remember the Solyndra debacle and other solar and wind firms that went belly up like birds around a windmill? According to Nielsen Media Research, there are more than 4,500 AM stations reaching nearly 78 million. A market exists for AM radio. Granted, it isnt a 1970s market, but its a market, nonetheless. Once radio was a choice in a car. If a buyer wants AM, include it as an option. Government automotive meddling has a long history that needs to end that includes fuel efficiency, emissions, bailouts, tax credits, financing, and now radio. This is the perfect paradigm of allowing the market to decide and shrink government overreach. Congress has better things to legislate. How about agreeing about the 3.8 million migrants that have broken our immigration laws in the past three years? As the nation craters into division, an emergency broadcasting system is most important. Old tech, yes, but proven and effective. Image: RawPixel.com The special counsels report on Joe Bidens illegally hoarded documents from the time he was a senator and vice president was devastating on several counts. Special counsel Robert Hur found that Biden willfully and intentionally took classified documents and stored them carelessly. He also shared them illegally with ghost writer, Mark Zwonitzer. But, he wont be charged with a crime because his memory is now defectivein other words he is elderly and too feeble-minded, and making him a defendant would be cruel! This is not how the legal system is supposed to work. Never having been president at the time, Biden had no right to take any of said documents into his possession. But, as everyone knows by now, the report also described Bidens serious cognitive decline, a fact anyone who has been paying attention knows only too well. The mans brain is mush. He should be home enjoying his dotage in peace, without his Edith Wilson wife shoving him on and off various stages. She is a nasty piece of work; she never should have allowed him to run for she surely knew then what we all know now. But to add insult to injury, Bidens staff sent him out for a press conference to address the report. They even allowed a press pool who shouted questions at him. That is rare; he usually has a prompt sheet telling him who to call on, what their question will be, and what his answer will be. Not this time. The result was a disaster. He showed his anger, bragging that the charges against him were nothing like those against President Trump. But they were exactly the same, only Trumps documents were legally his to take under the Presidential Records Act, and were stored under lock and key, guarded by the Secret Service, not in a mess behind only a garage door. So, the question is: what was Bidens staff thinking, letting him speak to the nation at a time past his known bedtime, when he was clearly agitated, angry, defensive and obviously disoriented. He called the president of Mexico El-Sisi; El-Sisi is the president of Egypt. There were other obvious and serious lapses of sentience in his short, befuddled talk. One has to wonder if his staff, seeing the writing on the wall, meant to expose his dementia to the nation at this time. Isnt it possible that they know he is non compos mentis and want to speed up the process of removing him from office? They had to know he would behave exactly as he did. No matter how many drugs he is given when he must appear in public, they are no longer working; they cannot fix or conceal his palpable dementia. That Trump is being charged, absurdly persecuted by the odious Jack Smith for taking and properly storing documents he was legally allowed to keep now seems like what it is, more desperate lawfare. Those charges should now certainly be dropped. With each passing day, the fact that there is a two-tiered system of justice in this country is a constant slap in the faces of conservatives. Pro-life activists are facing eleven years in prison for singing hymns near an abortion mill while the BLM and Antifa rioters of 2016, Trumps inauguration, and the summer of 2020, who caused billions of dollars of damage, were not charged with the crimes they committed: arson, vandalism, destruction of federal property, etc. Hundreds of persons present at the Capitol on J6 have been thrown in jail, denied due process, and sentenced to terms far out of proportion for the crime of parading. There are countless examples of our system of justice having been weaponized, perverted, against people who oppose the extremist, globalist agenda of the American left. America is now a functional police state. Despite the lefts denials, there is no doubt that the 2020 election was not a clean and fair process, rigged and/or influenced by numerous calculating schemers on the leftMark Elias, fraudulent mail-in ballots, Zuckerberg, a cabal of Democrat cheaters across the country. Biden did not get 81 million votes, or if he did, he didnt get 81 million legal votes. The left so fears Trump that they are willing to do anything, no matter how illegal or corrupt, to destroy the man. They fear his undermining of the uniparty, the deep state that actually runs the country. They fear the loss of the power that defines and enriches them. But the more lawfare they throw at Trump, the higher his polls go; everyone except the pundits on MSNBC and CNN knows it. Their pundits are turning themselves inside out trying to diminish the meaning of the special counsels report. They seem to have no idea how hilarious their silly defenses of Biden are at this point. John Yoo has suggested that if Biden feels the report unfairly represented the facts with regard to his mental acuity, he could release the transcripts of the interviews with the special counsel; I am betting that will never happen. If any of his staff or his wife were with him during that two-day interview with the special counsel, they certainly know now how far gone he is. Perhaps that is why they chose to let him expose his condition to the nation. Has his mental decline affected his judgment regarding: Opening the border to all comers, ten to twelve million foreigners? The disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan? His provoking Putin to invade Ukraine? His terribly conflicted response to the Hamas attack on Israel? His ignoring of the SCOTUS regarding the cancellation of student loans? Destroying the energy independence achieved under Trump? His pausing exports of LNG? His militant embrace of transgenderism? His releasing billions of dollars to Iran? Then there is the massive financial corruption of the Biden family. The list of his actions devastatingly detrimental to the country is long. Whoever let him speak to the nation Thursday evening wanted the American people to know just how far gone he is. He must be removed from office before he does any more damage. Image generated by AI. When you, as an incumbent, discover the GOP Central Committee of your own state declines to endorse you, a little soul-searching might be in order. This is what happened to Congressman Don Bacon (R-Neb.). In Bacons defense, no one expected the representative of the 2nd District of Nebraska to enter the capital as a rock star we are a small state in population but Nebraskans have grown tired of being a perennial afterthought in D.C., largely due to the intellectual penury of those weve sent to stand for our interests. Just two years ago, the grassroots conservatives of Nebraska fulfilled a long-term plan to recapture their party from establishment apparatchiks who operated as functionaries of Pete Ricketts, Nebraskas then-governor and now junior senator. Conservatives first achieved majorities in county committees, then leveraged that into a bloodless coup at the 2022 state GOP meeting, where they ousted the old guard and took control of the NEGOP. Its these same folks, backed by many others like them throughout the state, who have told the aptly described DC uniparty that theyll go no further, not one step more. This election cycle, the NEGOP hasnt endorsed a single incumbent in our congressional delegation, partly owing to the hubristic assumption on the part of those incumbents that they were entitled to the party endorsement, so they took it for granted and never even bothered to ask for it. Here we see a microcosm of the greater struggle between the American people and their ruling elites. After having been ousted from their sinecures, some members of the former regime have petulantly attempted to undermine the new legitimately elected leadership by sabotaging donor relationships and engaging in an endless whisper campaign against the newcomers. After all, if these upstarts can actually accomplish the policy changes the preceding cadre claimed to be working diligently toward all these years, the jig will be up, and the establishment Republicans of the NEGOP will be revealed as actors in a kabuki production. This same dynamic is behind the D.C. establishments vicious attacks on President Donald Trump, who embarrassed the GOP not with mean tweets and crass behavior, as they would have you believe, but by accomplishing long-sought policy aims the establishment had forever pretended were all but impossible. The Nebraska congressional delegation is under heightened scrutiny by a new state GOP leadership committed to honesty, transparency, and results. Their willingness to require candidates (including incumbents) to earn endorsements is a bold step toward ridding the party of the compromised, co-opted, and all too comfortable denizens of the swamp. Bacon has a serious fight on his hands in this primary election, as his opponent has the backing of the state party as well as Bacons former campaign manager. The hits just keep coming. The author writes from Omaha, Nebraska. Image: Nebraska State Capitol. Credit: jpellgen via Flickr, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0. Who could forget Peters Sellers' portrayal of three characters in the 1959 satirical film, The Mouse That Roared? If you've never seen the film, you can see a remake of it by taking a trip to our Southern border. There, millions of faux asylum-seekers are recreating the plot in living color, every single day, as they cross, illegally, and plant their feet in our soil. In the 1959 film, the European Duchy of Grand Fenwick has fallen on hard times and is nearly bankrupt, due to competition to its sole export (a much sought-after wine) by a cheaper American version. Its heads of state, the Duchess Gloriana XII and the prime minister, Count Rupert Mountjoy, (both played by Sellers) are convinced that the only way out of their dilemma is to call upon Tully Bascomb, the Duchy's game warden. They promote him to Field Marshall and order him to set sail for America where he will attack it, full well knowing that Tully's 20 soldiers will be defeated. After the pro-forma battle, they plan to quickly surrender and then reap the rewards, based on their knowledge of American generosity towards vanquished foes, thereby ensuring the future of the Duchy. As with any good story, the plot takes a few twists and turns, but all's well that ends well. The Duchy is saved and everybody lives happily ever after until a mouse enters the scene. (By the way, the film cost $300K to make and grossed $2.2 million.) I'll leave it there and suggest that you find a copy and watch it. Unfortunately, there's another 'mouse that roared' story playing out in real time at our Southern border. During the last three years, our country has laid out the welcome mat for millions of largely economic migrants who coughed up a few thousand dollars to coyotes (cartel-affiliated human smugglers) for a one-way ticket to the land of milk and honey from countries as far away as China (32,000 at last count from the People's Republic). And like the inhabitants of the Duchy of Grand Fenwick, they have surrendered and cashed in on our largesse. The process is simple 1. Pay the coyotes 2. Leave home 3. Travel through Mexico 4. Illegally cross our border between official border crossing sites 5. Find a U.S. Border Patrol officer 6. Say you're an asylum-seeker, and give up. After a little paperwork you will be released, put on a bus or plane and be sent to the destination of your choice (particularly if you have a contact or relative in the city you choose). If you've no one to room with, you will be offered a ride to a sanctuary city like Los Angeles or New York or Chicago of your choosing. The bus/plane ride is free and when you arrive at your destination, a Catholic charity or other NGO will give you money and food and the city will find you temporary housing. Some migrants will get work permits while others will take off-the-books jobs, become dependent on the charities or resort to crime. Migrants headed for California have won the asylum lottery and can enjoy free health care, free schooling for their children, temporary housing in hotels or other facilities, meals on wheels, or food stamps, and even sex change operations -- this in addition to a wonderful climate and a laid-back lifestyle. New York City and the Windy City arrivals will be offered much of the same swag but migrants will have to endure harsher temperatures, especially in the winter. Sounds like a good gig, doesn't it? Not every migrant is happy, however. Some choose a life of crime and biting the hand that feeds them by complaining about their accommodations and the unappetizing cuisine of the Estados Unidos' kitchens. Hanging around migrant shelters is less exciting than the coyote promises of streets paved with gold, so some revert to the ways of their home-country shantytowns by assaulting the authorities. Just last week, migrants in New York attacked two policemen that were trying to detain a migrant lawbreaker. The cops were repeatedly punched and kicked and suffered multiple injuries. Only one migrant is in custody. This is not a Broadway play like West Side Story where juvenile delinquents danced and sang out their frustrations to Officer Krupke ("Officer Krupke we're down on our knees. No one wants a fella with a social disease.") Indeed, while Americans in million-dollar homes in gated communities exude sympathy for these poor 'huddled masses yearning to breathe free' (at our expense), those in urban neighborhoods in big cities are fed up. They're angry about having their children's recreational facilities being turned into barracks for migrants. They're tired of having to navigate their way through throngs of migrants just 'hanging out' on their streets, some with larceny on their minds. Their anger has finally replaced their pity and they want relief so they're attending city council meetings and making their voices heard. They're protesting the failed policies of an administration that made all this possible by replacing what was working at the border under Donald Trump with Pollyanna'ish idealism. Some would say that it isn't idealism at all. Instead, it is the next step in the Left's plan to 'pack the census' with future Democrat-leaning voters who would, by their very presence enable certain states to get more elected representatives to carry their political water in D.C. While this may sound cynical to some; it is becoming abundantly clear to many Americans that our current border chaos is proof positive that nothing politicians do is accidental and that goes for the border and anywhere else. The Duchy of Grand Fenwick we're not, but we're getting there as fast as the debt clock can attest. Thirty-one trillion dollars and counting with ten million more mouths to feed is a recipe, but not one for success. To me, it sounds more like chronic denial topped with acid reflux. Stephan Helgesen is a retired career U.S. diplomat who lived and worked in 30 countries for 25 years during the Reagan, G.H.W. Bush, Clinton, and G.W. Bush Administrations. He is the author of fourteen books, six of which are on American politics and has written over 1,300 articles on politics, economics and social trends. He operates a political news story aggregator website: www.projectpushback.com. He can be reached at: stephan@stephanhelgesen.com Image: Screen shot from MovieSpoilerSite video, via YouTube In the northern highlands of Peru lies the historic city of Cajamarca, where the great Inca empire met its demise. It was on this soil that Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro orchestrated the downfall of Inca ruler Atahualpa, capturing him and confining him to a modest chamber adjacent to the grand plaza. In a desperate bid for freedom, Atahualpa promised to fill the chamber once with gold and twice with silver, stacked as high as his outstretched hand could reach. This exorbitant ransom is one of the highest ever paid in human history. Despite his efforts, Atahualpa was executed after a mock trial by his captors. The room where all this happened is known as the Ransom Room or Cuarto de Rescate" (Rescue Room), and can still be visited in the city of Cajamarca. The Ransom Room. Photo credit: A.Davey/Flickr In the early 16th century, the Inca Empire stood as one of the largest civilizations in the Americas, stretching from the northern border of modern Ecuador to the Maule River in central Chile, encompassing the Pacific coast and Andean highlands. In 1532, Atahualpa ascended to the throne of this expansive realm, having decisively defeated his half-brother and incumbent emperor, Huascar, following three years of brutal civil conflict. However, Atahualpa's reign proved to be fleeting. Amidst the internal strife within the Inca Empire, a Spanish expedition led by Francisco Pizarro embarked on a quest to conquer South America. Landing on Puna Island in January 1531 with a modest force comprising 168 soldiers and approximately two dozen horses, they ventured southward towards the heart of the Inca domain. Positioned atop the heights of Cajamarca with a formidable army of nearly 80,000 battle-hardened troops, victorious from the recent civil war against Huascar, the Inca perceived little threat from Pizarro's meager contingent, notwithstanding its foreign attire and advanced weaponry. In a gesture seemingly friendly, Atahualpa welcomed the adventurers deep into his mountainous empire, intending to ensnare them in an ambush. Unbeknownst to him, Pizarro had orchestrated a counteroffensive with a smaller yet significantly more powerful force equipped with steel weaponry and long swords, far superior to the wooden, stone, copper, and bronze arms wielded by the Inca. In a brief and brutal encounter, the Inca forces were decimated, and Atahualpa found himself captured. It didn't take Atahualpa long to realize the true intentions of the Spanish invaders: they coveted gold and silver. He observed their plundering of Inca encampments and temples in Cajamarca, witnessing the looting of precious treasures. Atahualpa grasped the stark reality that his freedom hinged upon his ability to pay a ransom. Thus, he proposed to Pizarro a transaction for his release: he would fill his confined chamber with gold once and twice with silver, extending up to the level of his outstretched arm. The room was 22 feet long and 17 feet wide. Atahualpa, being a tall man, could reach his hand to over eight feet. This height is now marked by a red line. The capture of Atahualpa by John Everett Millais (18291896) Over the ensuing two months, porters converged from all corners of the empire, delivering vast fortunes to appease the invaders. Among the riches were not only gold coins but also invaluable works of art crafted from gold and silver, alongside myriad tons of precious metals in the form of jewelry and temple adornments. To expedite the process, the Spaniards pulverized bulkier items, ensuring a slower accumulation within the chamber. This amassed treasure was then melted down, refined into 22-karat gold, and meticulously tallied. Atahualpa's ransom amounted to over 6,000 kilograms of gold and double that in silver, equating to nearly half a billion dollars by today's standards. Twenty percent of the spoils were allocated to the King of Spain, while the remainder was distributed among the soldiers based on their ranks. Legend has it that even the most humble among the troops received a share, totaling 20 kilograms of gold and 40 kilograms of silver. In the meantime, Atahualpa's three royal generals, Quisquis, Chalcuchima, and Ruminahui, had already begun to mobilize a large army. After several months in fear of an imminent attack, the outnumbered Spanish considered Atahualpa to be too much of a liability and decided to execute him. Pizarro orchestrated a sham trial, indicting Atahualpa on charges of rebellion against the Spanish, idolatry, and fratricide against his brother, Huascar. Atahualpa was sentenced to death by burning at the stake. When Atahualpa expressed concerns that his soul would not be able to go on to the afterlife if the body were burned, Friar Vincente de Valverde offered to commute the sentence to death by garrote but only if he agreed to convert to Catholicism. Faced with a dire ultimatum, Atahualpa agreed to be baptized into the Catholic faith and assumed the name Francisco Atahualpa in honor of Francisco Pizarro. He was executed by strangling with a garrote on July 26, 1533. The execution of Atahualpa. The Ransom Room still stands at the grand plaza in a small courtyard, sandwiched between commercial establishments on the street and accessible through a porch. Made of volcanic stone, its condition is said to be spalling, aggravated by pollution and weather fluctuations. Archeologists have excavated the floors but the buildings walls are still largely intact, right up to the red line indicating the height to which Atahualpa promised to fill the room with treasures. Photo credit: zug55/Flickr References: # About the Ransom of Atahualpa, ThoughtCo # The Capture of Inca Atahualpa, ThoughtCo # Ransom Room, World Monuments Fund In a recent update, Google Maps for Android has leveled up the navigation and now it also shows real-time weather information. Just like its iOS counterpart, the Android app now has a discrete weather box in the top-left corner of the screen. With its help, users can quickly glance at temperature, air quality index (AQI), and upcoming weather conditions for regions they want to travel to. How Google Maps for Android shows temperature and AQI From the images shared by 9to5Google, the weather box shows up as a compact widget beneath the search bar, and it displays the current temperature accompanied by a descriptive icon and the air quality index. People using it can easily anticipate if theres going to be rain, snow, or other weather events with their expected timings. Tap on the widget and it opens up a comprehensive card with additional weather insights. Advertisement Advertisement A noteworthy feature within Maps new tool is the AQI section. It helps the navigator with an immediate snapshot of air quality. When you tap on it, the button seamlessly transitions into an existing Air Quality map layer that allows for a more in-depth exploration of air quality in different locations. This new feature inside maps is very practical for those concerned about environmental conditions. The weather box has other exciting features too. For instance, it dynamically updates as users navigate through the map and shows changing weather patterns in real-time. However, it disappears if users select any specific location on the map. It should be noted that Google Maps has a way of showing weather details without clutter, so you wont be overwhelmed when using the feature. Image credit: 9To5Google Wider Availability and Version Details According to Business Standard, the Google Maps update with this feature is incremental, and it has gained widespread adoption with the recent version 11.113.x. There are still some regions left that are yet to receive it, but the majority have got the update already. Users who havent experienced the feature yet can try force-stopping Google Maps and restart. The weather box should pop up after that. The Android Google Map version employs a slightly different set of weather icons than Google Weather. It uses MetNet-3 to power its 12-hour precipitation forecasts. For those unaware, MetNet-3 is Googles state-of-the-art neural engine for weather prediction. The technology previously found its place inside the Pixel weather app, and Google Search. But now it is also present in Google Maps for Android. With the recent release of Android 14 QPR3 Beta 1, Google has subtly hinted at the impending arrival of Android 15 through a tweak to its Easter egg feature. Android updates typically introduce unique Easter eggs, and Android 14 was no exception. It features an outer space-themed Easter egg in its Settings menu. However, the latest version has brought about a noticeable change replacing the circular Easter egg badge with an inverted triangle. While this alteration may seem minor, it holds significant implications for the upcoming Android 15 release. Easter eggs embedded within Android versions often provide insights into the theme and direction of each iteration. In the case of Android 14, the Easter egg hinted at satellite connectivity. Advertisement Advertisement The inverted triangle-shaped Easter egg replicates V representing Android 15s Vanilla Ice Cream The shift from a circular design to an inverted triangle in the Android 14 Easter egg is no coincidence. Android versions typically follow an alphabetical naming convention, with each version associated with a letter. Android 14 corresponds to the letter U, while Android 15, internally known as Vanilla Ice Cream, corresponds to V. Therefore, the change in the Easter eggs shape strongly suggests Googles preparation for the imminent release of Android 15. Further reinforcing this speculation is the subtle alteration within the Easter egg itself. In addition to the change in shape, the Easter egg now references Vanillaicecream^Tau, indicating a deliberate nod to the upcoming Android versions codename. This attention to detail serves as an indication that Google is gearing up for the unveiling of Android 15. While Google has yet to officially announce the release date for Android 15s first developer preview, historical patterns suggest that it may arrive as early as February or March. The adjustment to the Easter egg serves as an intriguing precursor to the unveiling, generating anticipation and excitement among Android enthusiasts. Microsoft issued layoffs of nearly 2,000 people across its gaming division back at the end of January, and now the FTC is stating that Microsoft misrepresented its plans for Activision following the acquisition. If youre just getting caught up, Microsoft was given the green light to move forward with its Activision Blizzard acquisition at the end of last year. This was after spending the past couple of years battling regulators. It had to make some concessions to appease the likes of the UKs Competition and Markets Authority. Which, alongside the FTC, initially opposed the acquisition. At first, the acquisition was only approved in the EU. But fast forward a few months following the CMAs initial opposition, Microsoft came back with changes to its deal that the CMA was more or less ok with. So it approved the deal and Microsoft was free to finalize things as all of this happened by the designated completion date. Advertisement Advertisement All the while, the FTC has been fighting this deal and trying to stop it. Now the FTC has filed a complaint that alleges Microsoft misrepresented its plans for Activision Blizzard. Its now attempting to pause the acquisition while it further investigates any potential antitrust issues. The FTC says the Activision layoffs are in contradiction with what Microsoft said would happen In the FTCs complaint, the regulator says Microsofts plans to layoff more than 1,900 employees throughout its gaming division are in contradiction with its initial plan. This is where everything comes to a head. Microsoft initially suggested that layoffs wouldnt need to happen following the acquisition. It was looking at this as a vertical acquisition and there would be no redundancies. Meaning everyones roles would be an integral part of things moving forward. Microsofts reasoning for the layoffs, however, states something different. As the company notes it found areas of overlap across several studios in its gaming division. This included employees from both Xbox and Zenimax, but also reportedly around 899 employees from Activision Blizzard. The FTC says these particular layoffs are the opposite of what Microsoft said it would do. In short, Microsoft said it wouldnt issue layoffs, and that Activision Blizzard would operate independently. Then just a couple of weeks ago it issued at least 899 layoffs to Activision Blizzard employees. Advertisement According to Engadget, Microsoft says the layoffs would have happened anyway. With or without the acquisition. This statement comes from Microsofts own letter issued in response to the FTCs letter, which it issued on February 8. Activision was already planning on eliminating a significant number of jobs while still operating as an independent company. The recent announcement thus cannot be attributed fully to the merger, Microsoft says in its own letter. Could a merger reversal happen? Its tough to say. Theres still no indication that the FTC will be granted its request for pausing the merger. However, it has been done before. Reuters points out that the FTC successfully reversed the acquisition of Wild Oats by Whole Foods back in 2009. Wild Oats was a rival grocer that Whole Foods sought to absorb. The acquisition was granted, but the FTC appealed and won. Whole Foods then had to issue a settlement, which saw Whole Foods having to sell off 32 Wild Oats stores, intellectual property, and related assets. So, its possible. Even if its a small chance. And that seems to be what the FTC is shooting for here. Some sort of resolution that results in a merger reversal. Samsungs Galaxy A35 and Galaxy A55 have leaked in another set of renders. Shared by renowned tipster Evan Blass on X, we have images showing the two upcoming mid-range phones in multiple colors. The devices may go official soon as the company has started putting up support pages on its website. Galaxy A35 and Galaxy A55 show up in fresh renders Early last month, we exclusively leaked the official renders of the Galaxy A35 and Galaxy A55 in three colors each: Awesome Iceblue, Awesome Lilac, and Wesome Navy. It appears Samsung will offer the phones in a Greenish Yellow color too, at least the former model. The images shared by Evan Blass, aka @evleaks, show it in a shade of Yellow similar to that of the Galaxy A25. The other device is seen in the same three colors. Advertisement Advertisement At first glance, it is hard to tell the difference between the two models. They feature the same rear design, including the layout and positioning of the cameras, the LED flash unit, and the Samsung logo. The button placement is also the same, with both phones sporting the Korean firms new Key Island design language. The frame is slightly raised around the power and volume buttons on the right side. The Galaxy A55 and Galaxy A35 also look identical from the front, thanks to Samsung upgrading the latter to a hole-punch design. However, looking closely, you will find a few design differences. Most notably, the Galaxy A55 has antenna lines on the frame, confirming a metallic structure. The Galaxy A35 has no antenna lines, meaning that it will feature a plastic frame. The former also has its camera lenses protruding further away from the body. The two devices differ a lot internally Samsungs upcoming mid-range smartphones may look identical on the outside but they differ a lot internally. While we dont have detailed specs, we know that the Galaxy A35 is a slightly bigger package overall. It will feature a bigger display. The two phones will also ship with different chipsets. The Galaxy A55 should get a new Exynos processor with an AMD-powered custom GPU. The devices may share the 50MP primary rear camera, though. Over the past few weeks, Samsung has received regulatory approvals for the Galaxy A35 and Galaxy A55 from several government and certification agencies around the world. The company has also published support pages for the phones on its official websites. The support pages are live on its websites in India, the UK, Africa, the UAE, Latin America, and more regions. This is an indication of a nearing launch. Samsung might unveil the devices soon. A new documentary will explore why the friendship between Adrian Edmondson and Rik Mayall proved a hit with audiences in the tempestuous and anarchic 90s comedy Bottom. Comedians Edmondson and Mayall, who met at Manchester University, were two hapless and disgusting flatmates in the slapstick sitcom which ran from 1991 to 1995. Edmondson will revisit the show in comedy channel Golds Bottom: Exposed, which features footage that has never been broadcast, stories from filming and a look at the relationship between the two lead actors. Actor Rik Mayall died 10 years ago (Ian West/PA) The 67-year-old, who also appeared in The Young Ones with Mayall, said: A long time ago, deep in the mists of time, two blokes I was one of them, Rik Mayall was the other decided to make a career out of beating the shit out of each other. It was a tempestuous, an anarchic and occasionally quite a dangerous time we both required hospital treatment on occasion but above all, it was bloody good fun. We made each other laugh and, luckily for us, we made audiences laugh. This programme seeks to get to the bottom of why it worked. Mayall, who died age 56 in 2014, was also known for the comedy series Believe Nothing and Filthy Rich & Catflap, with Edmondson, and black comedy Drop Dead Fred, about an girls imaginary friend that reappears when she is in an adult. The Gold special will be narrated by presenter, comedian and actor Stephen Fry, who Mayall worked with in Blackadder when he played Lord Flashheart and The New Statesman as Alan BStard MP. Former Bottom cast members Absolutely Fabulous actress Helen Lederer, Pirates Of The Caribbean film series star Kevin McNally, theatre actor Roger Sloman, The Bill actress Lisa Maxwell and EastEnders actor Paul Bradley will also talk about the show. Bottom producer and series director Ed Bye, who also worked on science fiction comedy Red Dwarf, is also among the contributors. In the original show, Edmondson as Edward Eddie Elizabeth Hitler and Mayall as Richard Richie Richard often failed to romance women while being unemployed and living in Hammersmith, London. The duo rarely leave the flat, meaning its largely a self-contained show. Stephen Fry will narrate the Gold special about Bottom. (Lucy North/PA) When the two friends, who are also frequently trying to hurt each other physically and emotionally, do venture out they are mainly seen at the local pub, The Lamb and Flag. Mayall and Edmondson continued to reprise their awful characters in various stage shows but attempts at a TV revival proved unsuccessful. A film, Guest House Paradiso, which sees them run a guest house was released in 1999. In August 2012, the BBC announced the Bottom characters would return in a show called Hooligans Island, based on their stage show where they end up being shipwrecked, but within weeks Edmondson had ruled it out. They had briefly appeared together a year earlier on Lets Dance For Comic Relief, when Mayall hit him over the head with a frying pan during a routine, echoing the outrageous behaviour of their characters. The 120-minute documentary will also see fans such as comedians Chris McCausland and Maisie Adam reflect on the show and its impact on the sitcom genre. Executive producer Matt Crook, managing director of Studio Crook, said: It was such a huge show and has never had a documentary until now, so we feel incredibly privileged and excited to be given this opportunity by UKTV to work with Adrian Edmondson and Rik Mayalls estate to celebrate one of the greatest sitcoms of all time. Bottom: Exposed will air on Gold later this year. The Bottom boxset will also be available on Sky, Virgin and NOW. Belfast rappers Kneecap are threatening legal action over a decision by the UK government to block significant funding it had been allocated. A grant had been due to the Irish-language rap trio through a scheme administered by the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) before being refused by the UK Government. SDLP leader Colum Eastwood said the decision to overturn the award was highly irregular, and could possibly be in breach of a treaty signed after the Good Friday Agreement. The rap group said on the social media site X, formerly Twitter: Weve just been informed that our application to the Music Export Growth Scheme was independently approved and signed off by selection board. It was then blocked directly by the British Government who overruled the independent selection board. The Music Export Growth Scheme aims to help UK music groups market themselves abroad. A spokesperson for UK Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch is reported to have said they did not want to give taxpayers money to people that oppose the United Kingdom itself. The music group, who had a 2019 tour entitled Farewell to the Union, said that the decision effectively meant it was blocked from receiving significant music funding because a Tory minister doesnt like our art. Law firm Phoenix Law said on Friday afternoon that it had been instructed by Kneecap over a decision by the Secretary of State, who had been put on notice that her decision is unlawful. We have been instructed by @KNEECAPCEOL in respect of the recent decision by the Sec of State. She has today been put on notice that her decision is unlawful, and legal proceedings will follow. Our @darraghmackin is instructed acting with @JoeBrolly1993 & Mr Ronan Lavery KC. Phoenix Law Belfast (@PhoenixLawHR) February 9, 2024 Mr Eastwood suggested the decision may also not comply with the British Governments obligation to exercise power on the basis of parity of esteem for communities in Northern Ireland. He said: It is highly irregular for a secretary of state to intervene to overturn the decision of an independent assessment board to award funding to an artist on the basis of their political aspirations. It would be unacceptable if the British Government had instituted a policy of defunding groups because they support Irish Unity, Scottish Independence, Welsh Independence or any other change to the constitutional status quo. Worse, in the context of Northern Ireland it may represent a breach of the British Governments obligations under the treaty signed after the Good Friday Agreement which includes a commitment to exercise power on the basis of parity of esteem between communities in the north. Art is meant to be challenging. You dont have to agree with an artist or group to understand the importance of funding creators who challenge the status quo and the establishment. I have submitted a number of parliamentary questions to establish what has happened here. If there has been a change of funding policy to make that more difficult then Kemi Badenoch needs to come clean about it. The BPI said in a statement to the PA news agency that it was disappointed that the UK government did not approve the grant to Kneecap. The statement said: The Music Export Growth Scheme (Megs) is an important partnership between industry and Government, and we greatly appreciate the Governments support including its recently increased levels of funding. This long-term commitment has shown itself to be vital to hundreds of independent artists in developing their international careers adding to the UKs cultural power and driving export success through music. However, as the delivery partner of Megs on behalf of the UK music industry, the BPI is disappointed at the Governments decision not to approve a grant to the band Kneecap after our independent selection board had voted for it as part of the latest round of funding applications. The public funding element of the scheme makes it appropriate for colleagues in Government to have a say on any grants awarded by the Megs Board, and it has been their decision alone to decline the application made by Kneecaps representatives. While it is for Government to speak to its rationale for making this particular decision, we firmly believe in the importance of freedom of expression, including artistic expression, and look forward to discussing further with Government how any decisions involving potentially controversial matters will be handled in future. Record-breaking hydroplane Bluebird K7 will return to the Lake District to go on permanent display, museum bosses have said. Its pilot, Donald Campbell, died on January 4 1967 aged 45 when Bluebird flipped into the air and disintegrated as he attempted a new water speed record on Coniston Water. In 2001 Campbells body, with his race suit intact, and the wreckage of Bluebird were recovered from the depths of the lake and he was buried later that year in Coniston. Campbells family gave Bluebird as a gift to the Ruskin Museum in the village which his daughter, Gina, has described as his spiritual home. Gina Campbell, the daughter of Donald Campbell, holds a bunch of flowers at Coniston Water in 2021 to mark the 100th anniversary of his birth (Owen Humphreys/PA) However, the motorboat has been at the centre of a dispute involving North Shields-based engineer Bill Smith who recovered the wreckage. Mr Smith and his team of volunteers at the Bluebird Project have been restoring the hydroplane in the hope of a homecoming return at speed on Coniston Water. In August 2018, Bluebird fitted with a new jet engine hit speeds of around 150mph during successful tests and crew training on Loch Fad on the Isle of Bute in Scotland. On Friday, the Ruskin Museum said in a statement: The Ruskin Museum is delighted to announce that it has finally managed to secure the future of Donald Campbell CBEs world record-breaking jet hydroplane, Bluebird K7. Bluebird K7 will return to Coniston in the coming weeks to be conserved and displayed in her forever home in the Bluebird Wing of the Ruskin Museum. We will issue further details of this exciting development when we have established a timetable for moving the boat to Coniston and installing her for display. Campbell broke eight world speed records on water and on land in the 1950s and 1960s. In his fatal record attempt, the son of Sir Malcolm Campbell, who himself held land and water speed records, had set himself a target of reaching 300mph (480kph) on Coniston Water. British author Candice Carty-Williams said Succession creator Jesse Armstrong helped her make a TV series based on her 2019 debut novel Queenie. The eight-episode series, which will air on Channel 4 and Disney+, stars Dionne Brown as Queenie, Samuel Adewunmi as Frank, and Bellah real name Isobel Akpobire as Kyazike, marking the rising R&B singers acting debut. Appearing at the Television Critics Association (TCA) winter press tour in Los Angeles, creator and executive producer Carty-Williams, 34, said making Queenie for the screen was a very long process, taking eight years in total. We were on set for 48 days and we were in post-production for 200 days and so I did not realise I would have to give so much of my life to television, but its all worth it, she said. Weirdly, the person who helped me navigate this was Jesse Armstrong, because he is my agents friend and he gave me some advice. He sat me down and said make sure you write what you want to write and I was like youre Jesse Armstrong so you can say that. But I took on of that what I could, but hes been an incredible mentor. British writer-turned-producer Armstrong, who created hit TV series Succession, starring Brian Cox, recently won an Emmy award for best writing for a drama series, while his show took home a total of six gongs. Jesse Armstrong accepts the award for outstanding writing for a drama series for Succession during the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards (AP/Chris Pizzello) There arent (many) black female authors from the UK who have done this so I had to look to a white man for help, Carty-Williams joked. The writer said they filmed the majority of the series around Brixton in south London. It was really fun, but also really dangerous, she said. Someone threw a bottle at us, thats Brixton, you have to handle it. It was quite intense at times. I guess occupational hazard. I felt it was important to stay true to places in the book. Carty-Williams also said the book nods to hit book and film series Bridget Joness Diary by British author Helen Fielding. Helen Fielding attending the world premiere of Bridget Joness Baby (Ian West/PA) I read the book when I was too young probably, I stole it from my aunts book shelf and I read it in the summer holidays and I just thought it was really funny and I loved women being funny and I grew up around a lot of funny women and so it really chimed with me. And I got older and watched the films, I thought they were amazing, really fun. I think deep down I always wanted to make something like that. Queenie will be on Channel 4 in the UK and Disney+ later this year. John Bruton hailed a great statesman at removal mass in Co Meath Former taoiseach John Bruton has been described as a visionary and a great statesman, at a removal mass at a Co Meath church on Friday ahead of his state funeral. Mr Brutons remains were taken to Saints Peter and Pauls Church on the main street of his home town of Dunboyne. Former minister Richard Bruton carried the coffin of his older brother into the church for the ceremony, which began after 7pm on Friday. During the mass, parish priest Pat OConnor described John Bruton as a visionary and a man committed to peace. No matter what position John found himself, he gave it his all, as a TD, as a minister, as taoiseach. He was a great statesman, his vision for the European Union was far-seeing. He certainly was a great ambassador for the EU. Not only for the EU, but also for Ireland. John Bruton, a politician, a minister, taoiseach, ambassador, all great achievements for the Dunboyne man who never lost touch with his roots. Wreaths being carried into the church in Dunboyne, Co Meath, before John Brutons funeral (Julien Behal/Government Information Service) EU Commissioner Mairead McGuinness, Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys and Justice Minister Helen McEntee were among those at the service. Culture Minister Catherine Martin and her husband Francis Noel Duffy TD, Childrens Minister Roderic OGorman, and Minister of State for Sport Thomas Byrne were also present at what was otherwise a service for local people. Senior politicians and dignitaries are expected to attend Mr Brutons funeral at the same church on Saturday, before he is buried at Rooske Cemetery. Mr Bruton, who was Irelands premier between 1994 and 1997 and leader of Fine Gael between 1990 and 2001, died on Tuesday aged 76. The coffin of former taoiseach John Bruton arriving at St Peter and Pauls Church in Dunboyne (Julien Behal/Government Information Service) He died surrounded by his family in hospital after a long illness. Born in Dunboyne, he graduated from University College Dublin before qualifying as a barrister. After becoming taoiseach, one of Mr Brutons first policy initiatives was to call for a referendum that would see the Irish constitution change to allow divorce. Later that same year he welcomed the then-Prince of Wales to Dublin, marking the first official visit by a member of the royal family since the founding of the state. He was pivotal in establishing the Northern Ireland peace process alongside then-UK prime minister John Major, as they launched the Anglo-Irish Framework document. Politicians have praised his intellect, sense of humour and distinctive laugh as well as his passion for farming and dedication to his faith. Richard Bruton described his older brother as a pioneer of reform of parliament and a man of a lot of ideas. He always travelled on the slogan that every person counts. I think he brought it into his dealings with everyone, he said, during an emotional tribute in the Irish Parliament on Wednesday. John Brutons wife Finola Bruton, right, and daughter Mary Elizabeth Bruton (Julien Behal/Government Information Service) John Bruton is survived by his wife Fionala, his children Matthew, Juliana, Emily and Mary-Elizabeth, and his grandchildren. Paying tribute to his family, parish priest Pat OConnor said: Family was the centre of Johns life. Finola, you were the centre of his life, and became his angel guardian all the time of his illness. Mr Bruton had been very proud of his four children and enjoyed the fun and laughter that his grandchildren brought to his life. Of course, speaking of laugh, John had a great, infectious laugh. We can hear him laughing now. An LGBT+ refugee based in London who organised Nigerias first Pride march hopes to set a world record by walking 15,000km backwards to raise awareness of the homophobia faced by people around the world. Joel Mordi, 26, told the PA news agency he will be undertaking the challenge over the next year in different locations across the UK and will hold a flag of a different country during each walk so every country flag will be represented. His challenge, known as retro-walking, is very metaphorical as he aims to highlight backwards opinions held against LGBT+ people, he said. Mr Mordi kicked off his world record attempt in early February with a 12-hour backwards walk around Tooting Bec Stadium (Joel Mordi/PA) Mr Mordi grew up in Nigeria as an LGBT+ person and said that meant I had to confront various forms of covert and overt injustices bullying, heckling, and all sorts just for being perceived to be different. Upon arriving in the UK, he experienced homophobic abuse at a detention centre and in provisional accommodation and even experienced sexual abuse by another asylum seeker, he said. He said his backwards walking challenge depicts the state of the nation and it aims to challenge backward, long-standing and recent harmful laws, policies and rhetoric that surround not only my social group of LGBT+ people but also what our social discourse is. Mr Mordi kicked off his world record attempt in February with a 12-hour backwards walk around Tooting Bec Stadium. To achieve his goal, he must beat the record which was set more than 90 years ago by Plennie Lawrence Wingo, who walked backwards for 18 months from 1932 to 1933. While he lived in Nigeria, Mr Mordi was an LGBT+ rights campaigner who organised a series of protests in 15 locations and entered the National Assembly in the capital Abuja with a contingent of allies to read a love letter to Nigerian youth. He said: It was a call to action to all the youth everywhere to stand up for justice. While he lived in Nigeria, Mr Mordi was an LGBT+ rights campaigner who organised a series of protests (Joel Mordi/PA) Mr Mordi established his own foundation, the Mordi Ibe Foundation, a youth-focused charity based in Nigeria localising the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and making it actionable for young people in schools, he explained. However, he and his allies became people of interest and he fled to the UK to seek safety in 2019, where he was hit by a rather harsh reality that England is not a utopia, he said. Mr Mordi was placed in Harmondsworth immigration removal centre in Middlesex for five days, where he experienced whistling, cat-calling and name-calling during his induction in front of the guard. He said: Everyone kept saying youll be OK even though they knew I was different. They saw my flag, they saw my Dr Martens rainbow collection boots, they saw everything that was a dead giveaway to say Im a person of a certain need. He also experienced sexual assault by another asylum seeker while at the detention centre, he said. Someone walked into my room twice and he had his way. If he wanted to kill me, he would have killed me, he said. He said he reported the incident to an officer but no action was taken. During the Covid-19 pandemic, he lived in provisional accommodation with a homophobic roommate who kept on threatening him due to his sexuality so he frequently sofa surfed at friends accommodation, he said. Right now Im classed as homeless for my many different postcodes, he said. I carry so much pain, so much anger as I do love, and thats why Im walking backwards, to challenge long-standing hateful, harmful rhetoric and all the pain we have to go through. A Home Office spokesperson told PA: It is vital that detention and removal are carried out with dignity and respect. We take the welfare and safety of people in our care very seriously and accept nothing but the highest standards from service providers that manage the detention estate and the escorting process. The public will be outraged if former health secretary Michael Matheson accepts a severance payment of almost 13,000, Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross has said. Mr Matheson resigned from the Scottish Government role on Thursday following months of scrutiny over his parliamentary iPad bill of almost 11,000. He racked up the charges while holidaying in Morocco over Christmas in 2022, later conceding his sons had used the device as a hotspot to watch football. He initially claimed the hefty bill on parliamentary expenses, saying the device had only been used for parliamentary work, before paying the money back in full when the charges came to light publicly in November. Tory leader Douglas Ross said Michael Matheson should not accept his severance payment (Andrew Milligan/PA) The Scottish Conservatives had urged First Minister Humza Yousaf to sack Mr Matheson when the row first erupted last year. Mr Matheson will receive a resettlement grant of 25% of his final ministerial salary of 50,849 meaning he will be paid a 12,712 severance fee. Mr Ross said on Friday that the disgraced ex-minister who held a number of ministerial posts in his almost 13 years in government should not accept the payment. He said: Its very important Michael Matheson refuses to take his severance payment thats over 12,000. I think the public would be appalled if he were to accept that money given the way he continued disgraced in office for several months and the way he finally had to resign. I hope that he at some stage in the whole sorry saga does the right thing and either refuses to accept that money or pays it back. Mr Mathesons resignation came ahead of the outcome of an investigation by the Scottish Parliament Corporate Body into his expenses claim to cover the iPad charges. The report is expected to be published in the coming weeks, with Mr Ross also calling into question Mr Mathesons future as an MSP depending on the outcome. He said: I think there is an extremely strong case for the standards committee, or any other mechanism, to look at Michael Mathesons conduct, not just as a government minister but as an individual, now backbench, MSP. If there is new evidence thats come to light, that is extremely serious. He also condemned Mr Mathesons resignation letter to the First Minister, arguing it failed to make a single word of apology. He added: In fact, he said the only reasons he was resigning was for the benefit of himself and the Scottish Government not the Scottish people who have been so badly let down and the taxpayers he expected to pay thousands of pounds for his own iPad bill. I think people would be rightly outraged if Michael Matheson accepted that severance payment. In his resignation letter, Mr Matheson said: It is in the best interest of myself and the Government for me to now step down to ensure this does not become a distraction to taking forward the Governments agenda. The SNP has been asked for comment. Electric heaters that could explode, cause electric shocks or start house fires are being sold on TikTok and Temu and promoted by influencers with millions of social media followers, consumer group Which? has warned. The watchdog bought and tested eight electric heaters costing as little as 7.20 from TikTok Shop and Temu, finding that six were electrically unsafe. Testing found that the 7.20 XH-1201 1200W portable electric heater bought from TikTok was a fire hazard while also posing an explosion threat, and could also cause electric shocks. Which? found 16 sellers listing the heater on TikTok, quoting 223 sales. An identical 16.98 portable space heater purchased from Temu from a listing that stated 2,100 had been sold could similarly give users an electric shock, cause a fire or explode, Which? found. When researchers looked for other Temu-based sellers, they found another claiming 6,700 sales. Another heater, the X7 Portable space heater sold for 14.99 on Temu, had not been properly assembled and the live parts were easy to access, running the risk of electric shock. The seller Which? bought from had sold 353 of them, but researchers found two more sellers listing identical products and claiming 8,900 sales between them. The NFJ004 Portable electric heater costing 15.99 on TikTok was made so badly that it could give owners an electric shock, catch fire or explode, testers found. Overall, three of the five heaters bought through TikTok for Which? tests were dangerously unsafe and the instructions for a fourth were lacking key safety warnings, while all three heaters bought through Temu presented a danger to anyone using them. Only one of the eight heaters Which? tested from TikTok and Temu was both safe to use in the home and legal to be sold in the UK. Unsafe heaters bought from Temu and tested by Which? (Which?/PA) When Which? searched for electric heaters on TikTok, it found five videos within the first 100 results promoting the dangerous products, which were marked paid partnership or commission paid. The videos had more than 100,000 views between them. Both TikTok and Temu have removed all heaters that failed the testing, along with 27 listings for identical dangerous heaters. However, Which? said it had found that more similar listings had since appeared in their place. It has called for online marketplaces to have more legal responsibility for unsafe and illegal products sold to consumers via their platforms. It warned that new online marketplaces such as TikTok and Temu can achieve millions of app downloads but currently pass responsibility for safety to sellers who are beyond the reach of UK regulations. Recent Which? research found that around 2.8 million UK consumers made a purchase through TikTok in 2023, while 8.2 million UK consumers bought through Temu. Which? head of consumer protection policy Sue Davies said: Cheap electric heaters are a tempting purchase for consumers struggling during the cold winter months, but our latest tests have revealed that models sold on TikTok and Temu are a serious safety risk and must be avoided at all costs. Its vital that the Government urgently gives greater legal responsibility to online marketplaces for unsafe products so that they are forced to take action to prevent dangerous products ending up in peoples homes. Temu said all four heaters identified by Which? as safety hazards had been removed from the platform. The platform said: We deeply regret any concern or inconvenience caused by the safety issues identified in four electric heaters on our platform. The safety of our customers is our highest priority, and we have taken immediate action to address this issue. Temu operates a marketplace for independent third-party sellers who must adhere to strict compliance and legal standards before listing their products. In instances of non-compliance, we act swiftly to investigate and take necessary measures to protect our customers, which may include product removals and seller account terminations. TikTok said: TikTok uses a combination of technology and manual moderation to enforce our policies for TikTok Shop. If TikTok finds merchants or products that violate their policies, they remove them. Lesley Rudd, chief executive of the charity Electrical Safety First, said: New platforms for shoppers are contributing to dangerous products flooding the market, worsening the problem every day and leaving more shoppers exposed to unsafe goods. The way we shop has changed, possibly forever, yet it is utterly illogical that our laws have not, leaving people shopping on these online platforms grossly unprotected from dangerous electrical products. Influencers promoting goods on platforms also have a moral duty to their followers to ensure what they are promoting is safe or risk exposing them to dangerous products. She added: The current framework is broken and urgent legal changes are essential to regulate these platforms once and for all. The slow pace of the Governments review into product safety leaves our laws outdated and unfit for the way we shop today. We urge them to take decisive action to speed up the process and protect lives. A Department for Business and Trade spokeswoman said: The Office for Product Safety and Standards continues to take action against unsafe products sold online and those who sell them, including through the use of intelligence to disrupt their supply. Manufacturers and suppliers are required to place only safe products on the market and are responsible for issuing instructions on how a product can safely be used. If anyone has concerns about an unsafe product, they should provide the relevant information and we will consider it. A proposed law to ban conversion therapy is dangerous and would create a thought crime offence, peers have claimed. It would become an offence in the UK for any person to practise, or to offer to practise, conversion therapy linked to sexual orientation and gender identity under a Private Members Bill tabled by Liberal Democrat Baroness Burt of Solihull. Lady Burt said her Bill is needed as Government efforts to introduce a ban have stalled and insisted her proposal would not criminalise open conversations in any way but instead protect LGBT+ people from harm. But the draft legislation split peers, with some claiming it would limit the ability of parents, teachers, psychiatrists and religious practitioners from discussing matters with children and others. The Bill received an unopposed second reading, as is convention in the Lords, but is likely to face a strong challenge from critics at committee stage. Lady Burt said her Bill was designed to stop people trying to coerce someone into changing their behaviour and police would be required to demonstrate both action and motivation when attempting to prosecute under the proposed offence. But Conservative former minister Lord Forsyth of Drumlean said he had never seen a more badly drafted or dangerous piece of legislation in his 40 years in Parliament. Lord Forsyth said the Bill allows for unlimited fines for those convicted while a separate proposal in Scotland could result in jail time, adding: The world has gone mad. He said: It seems to me we normally, in this House, introduce legislation in order to fix a problem, not create new ones, and this (Bill) undermines the family, attacks free speech, freedom of thought and even religious belief. It is a dangerous, crude piece of legislation in a hugely complex and controversial area which is not suited to private legislation. It has all the characteristics of something written on the back of a beer mat after an unruly discussion in a pub. I very much oppose it. Conservative Lord Sandhurst added: This Bill is in no way suitable, creating as it does a far-reaching criminal offence thought crime comes to mind. Conservative former minister Lord Robathan said: It seems to me, Im afraid, to be purely virtue-signalling to placate a very small outraged minority who think their choice of lifestyle must never be questioned or discussed, however gently, by parents or anyone else. Former senior judge and independent crossbencher Baroness Butler-Sloss offered her support, saying: This Bill, as I hope it would be amended, would help LGBT+ people to be protected from unacceptable efforts to make them conform to a heterosexual way of life which does not conform with their sexual orientation. Lord Paddick, currently a non-affiliated a peer, spoke of his personal experiences as he told the chamber: I still suffer low self-confidence and self-esteem as a result of people constantly telling me I was not good enough just because Im gay. My parents told me that homosexuality was abhorrent, so I felt I couldnt even discuss it with them. I was bullied at school because of it. My police colleagues targeted people like me, and my church told me it was sinful. Being constantly told that youre not good enough, that there is something wrong with you, that yes God made you a loving, caring, sensual individual but you cannot love the person you truly love because they are of the same sex, damages you. Conversion therapy is an intense version of the same thing. Crossbench peer Baroness Hunt of Bethnal Green, a former chief executive of Stonewall, said: We need clarity on exactly what constitutes conversion practices and what doesnt. In similar legislation across the world, the law states explicitly what is to be included and what is excluded our legislation must do the same. The Bishop of Guildford claimed the Bill has almost unlimited reach as he warned of a danger of criminalising potentially millions of citizens. Conservative former minister Lord Herbert of South Downs said: We should not stand by and allow these harmful practices to continue. Yes, we must frame the law carefully. But the time to outlaw this abuse is long overdue. The Government first announced its intention to ban so-called gay cure conversion therapies in 2018 as part of its LGBT action plan. The proposals were initially intended to be universal and protect all LGBT people, although in 2022 then-prime minister Boris Johnson defended a decision not to include trans people. In January 2023, the Government said it would set out how it would ban conversion therapy for everyone including transgender people in England and Wales. Education minister Baroness Barran said on Friday: It remains our intention to publish a draft Bill for pre-legislative scrutiny. Lady Barran expressed reservations about Lady Burts Bill, including over the definition of conversion therapy, use of gender identity and trying to extend the measures to the UK when criminal justice matters are devolved to Scotland and Northern Ireland. The minister said: Its vital any legislation targeting these harmful practices does not affect the ability of parents, teachers, counsellors, religious leaders or healthcare practitioners to have open, exploratory and sometimes even challenging conversations, particularly with young people who are expressing or exploring their sexual orientation and/or their gender identity. In particular I worry that such a broad definition would create a chilling effect for those working in the legitimate clinical care sector who may feel too nervous to conduct their jobs out of fear of potential criminalisation. People are being warned to expect disruption with weather warnings of snow and ice in place for much of Scotland from Friday into Saturday. The Met Office has warned some roads and railways are likely to be affected while there is a chance of power cuts and disruption to mobile phone services. Weather warnings of snow and rain south of the border have expired, though flood warnings and alerts remain in place throughout much of England. In Scotland, a yellow weather warning for snow and ice stretching from the Orkney Isles down to Stirling comes into effect at 3pm on Friday and remains in force until 6pm on Saturday. A separate yellow warning for snow came into effect at 12pm on Thursday and will remain in place until 3pm on Friday. That warning covers most of the central belt and parts of the Scottish Borders but also extends north, merging with the other weather warning. Traffic Scotland said on X, formerly known as Twitter, that the Cairn o Mount snow gates in Aberdeenshire have been closed. SNOW GATES #B974 Cairn O Mount snowgates CLOSED Check out the snow gate cameras here https://t.co/HPHo04SdSD#TakeCare pic.twitter.com/I4i6cEao3B Traffic Scotland (@trafficscotland) February 9, 2024 Train operator Scotrail announced on X that it intends to run most services as normal, with the only changes taking place on its West Highland Line. Ferry operator Calmac has announced a number of delays and cancellations due to the adverse weather. The company advised its passengers to check the status of routes on its website ahead of travelling. The Scottish Environmental Protection Agency has issued two flood warnings for Scotland. Both north and south Luce Bay in Dumfries and Galloway are affected, with the warnings in place until 11.30am on Friday. (PA Graphics) Meanwhile, the Met Office has removed warnings in force in other parts of the UK though flood warnings and alerts remain in place in many areas. There are 81 flood warnings in place, mostly in the South and Midlands, with just a few in the North, while 294 less severe flood alerts are also in place in England and 19 flood alerts are in force in Wales. The number of warnings is subject to change as the UK Governments online flood system is updated regularly. Dozens of schools were closed on Thursday in northern England and North Wales and travel disruption was reported throughout the day as amber weather warnings were issued. Heavy snow in Allenheads, Northumberland (Owen Humphreys/PA) It comes after 10cm of snow was measured by the Met Office in Kirkwall, Orkney, on Thursday, while 9cm was recorded in Bingley, West Yorkshire. A total of 43.2mm of rainfall was measured in Harbertonford, south Devon, almost half the average for the area in February. Disruption was also reported by Great Western Railway on the line between Bath and Swindon due to flooding. Met Office operational meteorologist Dan Stroud previously said temperatures in the early hours of Thursday reached a low of minus 13.8C in Altnaharra, in the Scottish Highlands, while Exeter reached a high of 13.6C later in the day. He said: Weve still got rain and many have snow making its way northwards, we have got further weather warnings in force. Temperatures are recovering a little, across the far south its generally mild. Weve got a second band of cloud and rain moving northwards, it makes for challenging driving conditions. Weve had the worst of it but its still not completely clear. Where we have falling snow we see there is a risk of a few icy patches on roads. The focus is probably starting to shift more towards ice, people should still be cautious. A snowboarder takes to a hill in Northumberland (Owen Humphreys/PA) School closures were reported on Thursday in Wales, Yorkshire, Derbyshire, Staffordshire and Cumbria. Caroline Abrahams, charity director at Age UK, urged older people to do all they can to keep warm and safe as the temperature drops. She said: High energy bills and food prices mean it is understandable that some may think they have to cut back on food and turn their heating off, but prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can have a serious impact on their health, especially if they are already managing existing illnesses. As we get older our bodies find it harder to adjust to big changes in temperature, particularly if we are also coping with ill health or mobility issues. The cold raises blood pressure, which in turn increases the risk of a heart attack or stroke. Automotive company RAC also issued a warning to drivers, urging them to take the utmost care when travelling. A spokesperson added: The clear message to drivers is never put yourself or your passengers at any risk as getting stranded in a flood can sometimes quickly escalate into a life-threatening situation. If you do reach a road covered in water and cant be certain how deep it is, turn around and find another route. This way youll avoid anything bad happening, including major damage to your vehicle. An asylum seeker said he would have been killed by smugglers if had refused to pilot a boat in the English Channel where four people drowned, a court has heard. Ibrahima Bah, from Senegal, is accused of the manslaughter of four fellow migrants while seeking to get from France to the UK on December 14 2022. At Canterbury Crown Court on Friday, the defendant told jurors he agreed to pilot the boat before he had seen it, in exchange for free travel for himself and his friend. But Bah, who is over 18, said that when he saw the boat after it was pumped up on the beach, he changed his mind because it was too small for the number of people travelling. The court previously heard the unseaworthy inflatable should have had no more than 20 people on board but carry at least 43 people in the Channel that night. Bah said that when he told the smugglers at the beach he would not travel in it, he was assaulted. Bah said: Once we got there and I saw that boat had been assembled, and I then saw the number of people who were going to be travelling, thats when I said no Im not doing it. When I said Im not doing it, I was beaten up and they showed me that if I didnt pilot the boat they were going to beat me up and kill me. He said he did not ask his fellow passengers for help, adding: They were all scared, some of them had been slapped, kicked, with a stick. I thought I did my best to try and escape from them (the smugglers) but I couldnt. During the cross-examination, prosecutor Duncan Atkinson KC accused Bah of changing the reasons why he refused to pilot the boat, for example in previous statements where he said it was a little boat with a big engine, and that previous boats he piloted were wooden. He also accused Bah of not telling the truth about being forced to pilot the boat. Bah replied: Everything I said about the reason for me not wanting to drive that boat is correct, Im the one who went through this experience, Im the one who is before this court today, so I know what Im talking about. The court heard that it was Bahs dream to come to the UK to claim asylum, and he had left Senegal in 2019. He told police, when he arrived in the UK, that he had travelled from Senegal to Mali, Algeria and then Libya, before going by boat to Italy using smugglers. He had previously worked on fishing boats in Senegal, sometimes helping with fishing and steering the boat, and assisted in piloting the boat from Libya to Italy. Bah told jurors he was in Dunkerque, France, for three months and one day when he was charging his phone an Afghan man saw a picture on it of him by the engine of the boat for the Libya-Italy crossing. He said if he showed the picture to a man he could let him travel for free with his friend. Of the journey itself, Bah said: My intention was to get here safely. Get on the water to be picked up so we could claim asylum. To reach a boat that could save us, that was the aim for all of us. Bah is also on trial accused of facilitating illegal entry to the UK but he denied knowing he was travelling to the country illegally. To me the law allowed me to go to any country to claim asylum, he said. That was the only way for me to enter this country and make my asylum application. What all of us wanted to do was enter British waters and see a ship that could help us to claim asylum. The cross-examination continues. A man who stabbed his ex-girlfriends new lover to death in her bed, and his friend who encouraged the attack, have both been found guilty of murder. Kaydon Prior knifed Harrison Tomkins, 25, in the chest, legs and back with a hunting knife in a brutal and frenzied attack in Crawley, on August 13 2023. His friend Jason Curtis, 22, encouraged and assisted Prior in the murder. During a trial at Chichester Crown Court, jurors heard Prior, 23, was a jealous and controlling man who stormed into Alicia Parrins flat with Curtis, after hearing she had been out with another man. Prior was on a night out with Curtis for his birthday in London, before the pair travelled to Ms Parrins address in Arthur Road, Ifield, at around 5.30am. Prior and Curtis were found guilty of Mr Tomkins murder in unanimous verdicts. Kaydon Prior and Jason Curtis were both found guilty of murdering Harrison Tomkins after a trial at Chichester Crown Court (Sussex Police/PA) Prosecutor Alan Gardner KC had said: Harrison Tomkins had no chance. The sudden onslaught was completely unexpected. He may well have been asleep when the defendant burst into the bedroom. Jurors heard how Prior dropped the knife in the bedroom, punched Ms Parrin, and walked out of the building where he rejoined Curtis, telling him to burn his clothes as they escaped. Curtis was hiding in bushes nearby when police arrested him, while Prior was found by officers later that morning in his flat with a bag of clothes stained with Mr Tomkins blood. Prior claimed that the hunting knife, which he owned, was already in Ms Parrins flat and used for DIY and cooking. But the prosecution said that when he travelled back to his own flat for the spare key to Ms Parrins home, he also brought the knife with him. The trial heard how Prior and Ms Parrin had been in a relationship and had been living together in Priors flat in Three Bridges from around March 2023. Ms Parrin alleged Prior was violent and jealous in their relationship, and had told her on one occasion that he would kill her if she was ever with somebody else. In another instance, Ms Parrin said Prior would sing a song to her with the lyric: I wouldnt let you be with anybody else, which Prior denied. In July 2023, Ms Parrin got her own flat in Arthur Road, in a step towards breaking up with Prior, and on August 11, she told him their relationship was over. Harrison Tomkins was described as a lover of life by his family (Sussex Police/PA) The court heard how Ms Parrin sent messages to Prior on the day before the murder saying go f*** yourself dont ever contact me again, but he still believed they were in a relationship. Ms Parrin and Mr Tomkins had got to know each other by working at the K2 leisure centre, and things had got flirtier between them in the weeks leading up to August 12, when the pair decided to meet at a work colleagues leaving do. They were spotted at a pub and club in Crawley town centre by a mutual connection, Ella Stanford, who messaged Curtis on Snapchat that Ms Parrin was out with friends. Curtis replied: Kaydon says to keep an eye out for her and see what she is doing. Jurors heard that Prior was also sent a video of Ms Parrin, kissing another man in a club that night and he messaged her saying: Letting guys kiss you and that thats absolutely wrong I can literally see you. The prosecution said Prior intended to go to Ms Parrins flat to catch her red-handed with another man, but Prior claimed he went to her home at around 5am because he didnt like sleeping on arguments. He said Mr Tomkins had jumped out of bed and a fight broke out between them, with them both reaching for the knife. However Ms Parrin told the court the 25-year-old lifeguard did not attack Prior, and that at first she believed Prior was punching Mr Tomkins, but then she realised he had been stabbing him and there was blood everywhere. Curtis did not give evidence during the trial, but the prosecution said Curtis assisted and encouraged Prior in his murderous enterprise including following Prior into the bedroom where he watched the knife attack. Jurors heard how Ms Parrin told police officers after the murder its all my fault, and asked about this in court, she said: Because if Harrison wasnt with me he wouldnt be dead. Prior, of Hazelwick Avenue, Three Bridges, and Curtis, of Lairdale Road in Lambeth, south London, both denied charges of murder and manslaughter of Mr Tomkins. The pair were also both found guilty of having an offensive weapon, and Prior was found guilty of assault by beating of Ms Parrin. After the conviction, Mr Tomkins family said he was a lover of life who saw the best in everyone he met. In a statement from Sussex Police, they said: Harrison was innocent in all of this, taken by surprise and killed as he laid in bed, with no time to defend himself. We knew our son and he didnt move in any of these circles or know this way of life. We were an amazing family, completely content, loving, supportive and protective. Except in August last year our family was destroyed that fateful day the day I could not protect my son. His family added: Nothing said or done can help justify this senseless loss of life. Since the omission of any remorse and that my son was murdered whilst asleep, my only hope is they serve the maximum sentence possible. Prior and Curtis will be sentenced on April 23 at Hove Crown Court. A self-portrait by one of the worlds most famous artists is to go on display in Wales for the first time. Vincent van Goghs 1887 Portrait Of The Artist will go on display at the National Museum Cardiff next month. The impressionist painted 35 self-portraits before his death at the age of 37, making him one of the most recognisable faces in Western art. The work, which is normally housed at the Musee dOrsay in Paris, will go on display until January 2025. It is part of a reciprocal loan with France, with La Parisienne by Renoir also known as The Blue Lady making its way across the Channel. The loan agreement closes the Welsh Governments Year Of Wales In France, which was launched to create ties between the two countries in trade, culture and sport. The Van Gogh painting will be on display as part of a new exhibition, Art Of The Selfie, which explores if self-portrait is the original selfie. Joining Van Gogh will be a selection of artists from the national collection of Wales, including Rembrandt, Brenda Chamberlain, Francis Bacon, Bedwyr Williams and Anya Paintsil. Dr Kath Davies, director of collections and research at the Cardiff museum, said she was delighted to welcome Van Goghs self-portrait to Wales. I am sure visitors to the museum will enjoy seeing this work by one of the worlds best-known painters displayed alongside paintings by artists from our collection here in Wales, she said. Dawn Bowden, the deputy Welsh minister for culture and sport, described it as a fitting way to close the Year Of Wales In France. She said: I cannot wait to be one of Amgueddfa Cymrus (National Museum Wales) many visitors who gets to explore the history of the selfie in this wonderful collection. The Supreme Court heard oral arguments Thursday about whether former President Trump could be banned from the ballot this year. The case stems from a December ruling by the Colorado Supreme Court, which held that Trump should be struck from the GOP primary ballot in that state on the basis of the 14th Amendment. Section 3 of the 14th Amendment appears to bar anyone who has engaged in insurrection or rebellion from holding office though its precise meaning is contentious and was much-debated during Thursdays proceedings. Trump critics contend that his actions pertaining to the Capitol riot of Jan. 6, 2021, amount to insurrection and that he should therefore be barred from the ballot. His defenders counter that such a decision would deny voters their fundamental rights. Trump faces 14th Amendment challenges in several other states, which gives added urgency to the Supreme Courts deliberations. Here are the main takeaways from the day. Justices appear deeply skeptical of the anti-Trump case Oral arguments can sometimes be misleading as to where the justices end up. But it would be a huge surprise after Thursdays arguments if the court ultimately sides with Colorado. The justices seemed extremely skeptical about empowering individual states to bar candidates from federal office on 14th Amendment grounds. That might be expected in a high court with a 6-3 conservative majority. But, tellingly, even some liberal justices appeared to have misgivings. The question that you have to confront is why a single state should decide who gets to be president of the United States, Justice Elena Kagan asked Jason Murray, the lawyer representing the six Colorado voters who filed suit to keep Trump off the ballot. Kagan was nominated to the court by former President Obama. Her concern was echoed moments later by her ideological polar opposite, Justice Amy Coney Barrett. It just doesnt seem like a state call, said Barrett, a Trump nominee. Murray also endured several sticky moments under questioning from the justices, including Justice Clarence Thomas, whose questions highlighted the extreme historical rarity of states barring candidates for federal office on insurrectionary grounds. The days most heated exchange was between Murray and Justice Neil Gorsuch, who suggested that if the plaintiffs case was taken at face value, a sitting president could be considered illegitimate from the moment he aided an alleged insurrection. Gorsuch asked whether military officers or legal officials could refuse to obey orders from the president in such a scenario. Murray seemed reluctant to answer that question directly, leading an irritated Gorsuch to reprimand him for trying to change the hypothetical. Beyond such fireworks, it was crystal clear that the overall tenor of the courts questioning seemed highly favorable for Trump. But not all plain sailing for Team Trump The Trump team looks likely to emerge victorious but it had some uncomfortable moments along the way. At the outset, Jonathan Mitchell, representing Trump, was arguing that states do not have the power to banish people from the federal ballot, when Chief Justice John Roberts intervened. Roberts asked how this could be true in a blanket sense. He offered the hypothetical of a candidate seeking to get on the ballot in Illinois while being a resident of Indiana, in violation of residency requirements. The secretary of State cant say, No you cant? an incredulous Roberts asked. Mitchell contended the case of alleged insurrection was different, arguing that barring a candidate on 14th Amendment grounds amounted to changing the qualifications for office. Later, amid debate over a confusing clause in the amendment the question being whether it only applies to someone who has previously taken an oath for a lower office Justice Sonia Sotomayor noted that any exemption on those grounds would apply to Trump alone. Trump had never taken any oath of political or military office before becoming president. Bit of a gerrymandered rule, isnt it? Sotomayor sniffed. Designed to benefit only your client? Jan. 6 rears its head but only at the margins The Capitol riot itself was not the central issue during arguments, which focused on case law and the exact meaning of the 14th Amendment. But it did come into focus, sometimes dramatically. Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, for instance, took issue with the part of the Trump teams argument that said Jan. 6 did not amount to an insurrection. Mitchell, the Trump lawyer, said an insurrection needs to be an organized, concerted effort to overthrow the government of the United States. A chaotic effort to overthrow the government is not an insurrection? Jackson shot back. Separately, Trumps claim that he is immune from prosecution a question that is likely to reach the court in a separate case also surfaced briefly. Justice Brett Kavanaugh asked Mitchell whether he would accept that someone tried and convicted for insurrection by federal prosecutors could indeed be disqualified from holding office. Yes, but the only caveat that I would add is that our client is arguing that he has presidential immunity, Mitchell responded. So we would not concede that he can be prosecuted for what he did on January 6. A surprise from Justice Jackson One of the most surprising developments of the day revolved around Jackson. Jackson, a liberal nominated by President Biden and the only Black female justice in the courts history, was broadly expected to be skeptical of Trumps case. That may have been true of some arguments advanced by the former presidents side. But Jackson appeared surprisingly sympathetic to the argument that the relevant section of the 14th Amendment does not apply to the office of the presidency. She asked the lawyers for both sides whether, given the original context of the Civil War, the amendment might have simply been intended to protect against the possible infiltration and embedding of insurrectionists into the state government apparatus and the real risk that former Confederates might return to power in the South via state-level elections. Trump critics in this case have argued it is implausible that the 14th Amendments framers wanted to bar lower-level officials on the basis of insurrection while also exempting the president. It was striking to hear Jackson appear to take the opposite tack. Trump and his allies fire back Soon after the Supreme Court arguments, Trump spoke to reporters at Mar-a-Lago in Florida, where he contended the case amounted to more election interference by the Democrats. He repeated his frequently voiced criticisms about alleged weaponization of the justice system but praised his legal team for what he contended was a very good presentation that he contended had been well-received. Several Trump allies, including Sens. JD Vance (R-Ohio) and Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), also expressed support for him, arguing that the Colorado effort was fundamentally undemocratic. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. An Amazon delivery driver shot a dog while making a delivery in Alabama to a person who said she was not expecting a package. Hueytown police responded to a home in the 1000 block of 26th Avenue on a report of a dog that had been shot on Sunday at 5:30 p.m. Hueytown is about 15 miles southwest of Birmingham. Officers learned that as the driver was making a delivery to a residence, the dog emerged from under the porch of the home, police said in a news release. It was reported that the dog was being very aggressive and charged at the delivery driver, police said. The driver fired a single shot at the dog in an attempt to get away, and left the scene, officials said. That driver was later interviewed by officers. Police determined that the driver was attempting to defend himself, and the driver was not charged in the incident. However, Rose Kirk, the owner of the dog and the residence in question, disputes the police's self-defense claim and says she had never ordered a package to begin with. Kirk told WBRC of Birmingham, Alabama, that her two dogs Solar and Lunar were lying in chairs under the porch on Sunday when she heard a gunshot by her front door. When she went to investigate, she found Solar had been shot in the shoulder, and the bullet exited through his chest. When I saw all the blood dripping from my dog, and I was like, my dog was on a leash. He was on a chain, Kirk said. Why would you come up on my porch? Both of them were sitting in their chairs. He noticed them, but instead of backing off, he did not back off." Suppose he had a package to deliver, which I never ordered a package. He had no reason to be on my property, she continued. An online fundraiser has been made for the dog's medical bills. Kirks family has hired an attorney to investigate the matter, USA TODAY reported. NBC News has reached out to attorney Travis McCormick for comment. McCormick told USA TODAY: At this time, the focus of the Kirk family is on the continued recovery of Solar and working to heal themselves emotionally after this tragedy. The driver is no longer employed by Amazon, company spokesperson Austin Stowe told NBC News. We are in touch with the customer and weve reached out to Hueytown Police Department as they investigate, Stowe said Its against Amazons policies for employees who deliver for the company to carry weapons. However, delivery associates and Amazon Flex delivery partners are allowed to carry dog deterrent devices as long as they comply with state and local laws. Arizona lawmakers dodged a possible electoral nightmare this week, with members from both parties coming together to overwhelmingly approve a legislative tweak to the battleground states election policies ahead of the 2024 presidential contest. State election officials warned last year that in a close race, Arizona's new automatic recount rules could have left them double-checking ballots well past the deadline for sending their presidential electors to Washington, D.C. Such extended counting could have prevented Arizonas Electoral College votes from being counted in the presidential election. The bill moves the states primary to July 30th from August 6th, and changes other policies to ensure that election workers have enough time to count ballots and that military and overseas voters receive their ballots in a timely fashion. The bill also enshrines signature verification policies into state law, a provision Republicans sought in negotiations over the bill. Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, applauded the legislation that now heads to her desk for a signature. While this legislation isnt perfect, its the result of hard-fought compromises from everyone involved. Arizonans can rest assured that their voices will be heard and that our elections will run free of political interference, she said in a statement. The bill received broad support from state legislators. Just four Republicans cast no votes, with all other voting members in both parties backing the bill in both chambers. Arizona became a hotbed of election conspiracy theories after former President Donald Trump and his allies challenged the razor thin margins of his 2020 loss. Republican lawmakers have spent years criticizing the state's election policies, supporting a discredited audit and demanding changes. In 2022, state lawmakers increased the threshold for an automatic recount from 0.1% to 0.5% in an attempt to increase confidence in elections. In 2020, the Arizona presidential race was decided by 0.3% of the vote, and similar results this year may trigger an automatic recount. WASHINGTON President Joe Biden forcefully defended himself against charges that he suffers from memory loss, delivering remarks Thursday night at the White House in response to special counsel Robert Hurs report on his handling of classified information. Hurs report included characterizations of the presidents mental fitness, saying his memory was significantly limited, both during his recorded interviews with the ghostwriter in 2017, and in his interview with our office in 2023. The report also said Biden did not remember, even within several years, when his son Beau died. How in the hell dare he raise that? Biden said, adding that when he was asked about Beaus death during the probe, he thought to himself that it wasnt any of their damn business. Bidens son Beau died in 2015 from brain cancer. I dont need anyone to remind me when he passed away, Biden said Thursday night, reiterating that he wears his late sons rosary beads and honors him with a service every Memorial Day. The president often talks about Beau in speeches, especially in discussing loss and grief. Biden also said, My memorys fine, in response to a reporters question. Later in his remarks, Biden mistakenly referred to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi as the president of Mexico. The flub took place when Biden was answering a question about the Israel-Hamas war, and it was the third time this week he has mixed up heads of state. Biden appeared hours after Hur released his report into his handling of classified documents. Hur declined to prosecute the president, but he found that he willfully retained and disclosed classified materials after his vice presidency when he was a private citizen. White House officials concluded Thursday evening that Biden needed to address the special counsels most damning allegations head-on and express his anger about the report directly, according to two people familiar with the decision. Senior Biden aides believed it was imperative for the president to call out what they view as purely political criticism from Hur because, they argue, the special counsel was concerned about potential blowback from conservatives for not charging Biden with a crime, one of the people said. The White House also felt, as evidenced by the presidents fiery remarks about knowing when his late son Beau died, that the attacks on his memory were way out of line and gratuitous, the source said. Biden on Thursday night reiterated the distinction the special counsels report made between his handling of classified documents and former President Donald Trumps. Earlier in the day, he briefly addressed the report in a pre-announced speech, saying he was especially pleased that it made clear the stark differences between this case and Donald Trump. In response to a reporters question Thursday night about what he would have done differently, Biden talked about the importance of overseeing the transfer of materials. I should have done that, he said. I didnt know how half the boxes got in my garage until I found out staff gathered them up and put them together and took them to the garage in my home, he added. But Biden pushed back against the reports language that he willfully retained classified documents, saying such assertions were not only misleading; theyre just plain wrong. Biden also denied sharing classified information, including with his ghostwriter. I guarantee you, he said. The pushback came in response to part of Hurs report that details a recorded 2017 conversation Biden had with his ghostwriter, in which he said he just found all this classified stuff downstairs, according to the report. He told the ghostwriter in a recording, Some of this may be classified, so be careful. The report also threw doubt on whether a jury would convict Biden had Hur decided to bring charges. We have also considered that, at trial, Mr. Biden would likely present himself to a jury, as he did during our interview of him, as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory. Based on our direct interactions with and observations of him, he is someone for whom many jurors will want to identify reasonable doubt, the report said. It would be difficult to convince a jury that they should convict him by then a former president well into his eighties of a serious felony that requires a mental state of willfulness. LEESBURG, Va. President Biden called former President Trump and his allies in Congress losers while rallying House Democrats Thursday. Biden projected confidence ahead of 2024, when House Democrats are looking to win back the lower chamber, and noted that 2022 marked a good year for Democrats who experienced better-than-expected midterm results and created razor thin margins in the House. When voters have a choice between what we stand for and what Trump and the MAGA Republicans stand for, we win, he said. Which makes Trump and his MAGA friends losers. Were investing in America, bringing back pride to communities, pride to our country. I want to thank you for doing the job youre elected to do. It matters to the American people, and were in a position to win in 2024, I think, the president said at the caucuss annual strategy retreat in Leesburg. Biden also blasted Trump for his role in torpedoing the bipartisan border deal, accusing him of trying to intimidate Republican lawmakers into opposing the bill. You had worked so hard, a bipartisan group, so hard for so long to deal with the border, he said. And, guess what? Donald Trump allegedly I cant prove this, Im told called people and said, if you support that, Im coming after you. Are we here to solve a problem or just to weaponize for political attacks those problems? Biden added. Were here to serve the American people, he said of Democrats. Biden is no stranger to the Democrats annual retreat, having addressed the gathering for years as vice president under former President Obama before ascending to the presidency and taking over the spot as keynote speaker himself. This year, he made his best effort to energize the friendly audience ahead of November. When were united, we can beat House Republicans and their cynical political games, he said. Heading into the retreat, some Democrats particularly those in the Hispanic Caucus were furious that the White House and Senate had cut them out of negotiations on a border security bill. But those gripes dissipated when Biden arrived. The response from the packed room was generous: He got a long standing ovation at the start and another as he concluded with visions of a Speaker Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) in the next Congress. At the top of his remarks, the president spoke briefly about special counsel Robert Hurs report on his handling of classified documents. He highlighted in particular a section of the report that compares his handling of documents with Trumps handling of them, saying he was pleased the special counsel made the stark difference between the two cases. This matter is now closed, he added, banging his fist on the podium. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. By Jeff Mason and Trevor Hunnicutt WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. President Joe Biden on Thursday suggested that Israel's military response in Gaza has been "over the top" and said he is seeking a "sustained pause in the fighting" to help ailing Palestinian civilians. "I'm of the view, as you know, that the conduct of the response in the Gaza Strip has been over the top," Biden told reporters at the White House. He added that he has been pushing for a deal to normalize Saudi Arabia-Israel relations, increased humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians and a temporary pause in fighting to allow the release of hostages taken by Hamas. "I'm pushing very hard now to deal with this hostage ceasefire," Biden said. "There are a lot of innocent people who are starving, a lot of innocent people who are in trouble and dying, and it's gotta stop." The remarks, some of Biden's sharpest public criticism to date of the government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, come as the Democratic president has come under increasing domestic pressure to press Israel to stop fighting. The White House did not respond to a request to elaborate on Biden's remarks. In the aftermath of Israel's initial attacks, Biden was criticized for making remarks describing the death of innocent Palestinians as "the price of waging a war." Israel began its military offensive after Hamas militants from Gaza killed 1,200 people and took 253 hostages in southern Israel on Oct. 7. Gaza's health ministry says more than 27,000 Palestinians have been confirmed killed, with thousands more feared buried under rubble. There has been one truce to date, lasting a week at the end of November. Saudi Arabia has told the U.S. there will be no diplomatic relations with Israel unless an independent Palestinian state is recognised on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem, and Israeli "aggression" on the Gaza Strip stops, the Saudi foreign ministry said in a statement on Wednesday. Israel's Netanyahu has ruled out the establishment of a Palestinian state. On Thursday, Israeli forces bombed areas in the southern border city of Rafah where more than half of Gaza's population is sheltering, as diplomats sought to salvage ceasefire talks after Netanyahu rejected a Hamas proposal. Biden said that he hoped a deal to get hostages released could lead to a temporary pause in fighting that gets extended. He also suggested that Hamas launched the October attack to prevent a broad deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia, but added that "I have no proof." Explaining his response to the crisis, Biden appeared to mix up the details of his diplomatic efforts, calling Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi the leader of Mexico. "Initially, the president of Mexico, Sisi, did not want to open up the gate to allow humanitarian material to get in, Biden said. "I talked to him. I convinced him to open the gate. I talked to Bibi to open the gate on the Israeli side." Biden is running for re-election in November and is relying on the support of younger voters and those from ethnic and religious minorities who favor Democrats to win what is expected to be a closely contested election with Republican frontrunner Donald Trump. (Reporting by Jeff Mason and Trevor Hunnicutt; Editing by Sandra Maler, Diane Craft and Michael Perry) Remittances are a multibillion-dollar economy youve probably never considered. According to the World Bank, emigrants from low- and middle-income countries sent over $669 billion back to their home countries in 2023, up 3.8% from the year before. For many people on the receiving end of those transfers, remittances are a vital lifeline. Even as some economies depend in large part on the inflow of cash sent from expatriates (remittances contribute up to 48% of GDP in Tajikistan), most overseas workers still only eke out a meager wage. For poor migrants sending what precious spare income they have to even poorer families back home, theres a lot at stake, which is why trust is so important to the companies facilitating those transactions. It's super important to understand how hard it is to build trust with our customer base because of how complex remittances are, Matt Oppenheimer, CEO of Remitly, a Seattle-based online remittance service, told me last week. Remitly, Oppenheimer says, has tackled the challenge of building trust in large part through investing in customer service and embedding it in the corporate culture. And that culture is driven from the top down. Customer focus was one of Remitly's founding principles, and Oppenheimer says when he visits Remitlys customer service centers, he takes the chance to jump on a phone, personally fielding calls from customers. I'm taking those calls because I love interacting with customers," Oppenheimer says. "And those stories stick with me for years to come, in terms of issues that customers face when I answered the call, and what we did to resolve it." Thats the front line, where Remitly winsor salvagescustomer trust. "When a customer calls us in disarray because theres been a delay in their payment, how well we treat customers in that instance is, I think, very much how we differentiate ourselves, Oppenheimer says. I interviewed Oppenheimer for a case study on how brands can better manage customer service operations to build trust. This conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity. In your latest letter to shareholders, you said that the single most important cultural value at Remitly is customer centricity. Why is that? When we started the company, the three cofounders got together and said, Hey, what kind of culture do we want to create? in our company. I still have photos of the whiteboard from that initial meeting, and what's interesting is that while some of the values we wrote there have changed and evolved, customer centricity has been there from the very start. By rooting ourselves in our customers, thats given us our purpose and meaning, which permeates everything. Our business starts and ends with our customers, and that obviously creates a lot of value for our team and for our shareholders. But what's unique about Remitly is just who our customers are and the sacrifices they makeoftentimes leaving close family members and loved ones behind to move to a new country, to build a better life for themselves and their families back home. Yet they've historically just not had access to financial services that naturalized citizens have. How have you internalized customer centricity as a core value in your company culture? Well, the first market we served was the Philippines, and thats where our first office was. Back then, something like 10% of the countrys GDP was made up of remittances and so most of our customer service agents there had a direct connection to remittances. [Editor's note: According to the Philippines' central bank, remittances made 9% of GDP in 2022.] We were hiring local. And our customers loved that because we could provide service in Tagalog as well as English and offer empathy and understanding for why if, for example, some funds are delayed. Its an urgent issue. Obviously our operations have expanded beyond the Philippines, and we have seven different customer service sites. But, at the same time, we strategically picked where we wanted to have sites [so theyre closer to our user base] because I think that makes it easier to instill that customer centricity. So youre actively recruiting customer service agents with similar backgrounds to your customers'. What else? I think that culture kind of starts at the top. I regularly visit our various sites, and one of the things that I am most looking forward to is taking customer calls. And I do it out on the floor with everybody. And it's not like I'm taking them because of the fact that everybody's watching. I'm taking them because I love interacting with customers and their stories stick with me for years afterwards, in terms of issues customers face and what we did to resolve those problems. We also have a, sort of, systematic version of focus groups with our customer service agents, where we listen, learn, and act on what they are telling us about our customer needs, because theyre the closest to them. And I think our agents feel empowered therefore to speak up on behalf of customers to where it creates this positive loop of us not only improving our product but empowering our agents to speak up, which helps us continue to identify pain points that we can then improve. What sort of empowerment do you give your customer service workers to resolve customer complaints on their own? Theres different levels of authorization to make different decisions in our customer service teams, obviously. If you go back to the idea of trust, a part of that for us is maintaining trust with our regulators. There are a lot of areas that require systems and processes and controls to be in place. But I think our agents feel empowered to speak up on behalf of customers, and thats matched with our Voice of Customer and Voice of Associate processes [i.e. gathering feedback from customers and employees]. I'm really grateful for those teams in terms of how they listen both qualitatively and quantitatively to associate feedback, and then triage to make sure that information is getting to the right product teams, which can actually automate and solve some of the problems that they're identifying. Do you use chatbots in your customer service operations? We have erred on the side of having an actual person who someone can actually talk to. I think we make it easy to get to a human and speak with them. And we offer it in different languages, obviously. I do think that AI and chatbots are going to get better and could serve as almost like a copilot for a real agent, if done in the right way. But there's a lot of security and privacy components to that, too, that really need to be thought through. Many companies see relying on human phone operators as an undue cost. How do you justify the expense? I view it as an investment in the trusted relationship we have with customers. Our customers send very regularly back to their families at home, and they'll send with a provider that they feel like they can trust, and that they have a relationship with. So if we have a phenomenal experience with a customerone where even if there's been a delay in the transaction, we treat them well and we give them peace of mind that they feel taken care ofthen I view that as us keeping a relationship rather than making a transaction, and that's why it's less of a cost component. I do think that most people don't wake up saying, I want to contact customer support. They usually have to do it when there's an issue and not an automated solution to that issue. So I think the biggest thing that we can do to improve costs is prevent that contact from happening in the first place. And I think that is the biggest systematic way to both improve the customer experience and then, secondarily, save costs. Looking to the year ahead, is there anything that you want to change or improve about how Remitly manages customer trust? I think the biggest opportunity we have, especially with our scale, is the ability to continue to drive down the actual need to contact customer support by automating more and more of the actual product. Thats hard to do in financial services, and in international payments, because there's so much complexity and regulation. So that would be the first one that comes to mind. The second is, I think we can invest more in our in-house customer relations management toolsimproving both the interface that our customers use but also things like dynamic routingso you're giving the more complex cases to more senior or experienced agents, and you're giving the more basic cases to newer agents, so that we ramp up their understanding of the complexities of the service that we deliver. Eamon Barrett eamon.barrett@fortune.com This story was originally featured on Fortune.com The National Weather Service confirmed that a tornado was spotted Thursday just south of Madison between Evansville and Edgerton, marking the first time a tornado touched down in the state during February. The tornado was part of a storm system tracking across southern Wisconsin that has resulted in strong winds, lightning and hail. The weather service said in an X post at about 6 p.m. that "this is a very dangerous storm; seek immediate safe shelter if in its path!" Marcia Cronce, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service office in Sullivan, said a radar confirmed a tornado touched down in Rock County near Evansville before tracking northwest of Edgerton and dissipating in southwest Jefferson County, just west of Fort Atkinson. Most of the weather service's work will begin Friday morning to assess damage, investigate if more than one tornado formed and determine a severity level. The weather service had issued a tornado warning for parts of Dane, Jefferson and Rock counties, which expired around 6:45 p.m. Cronce said reports have been made of power poles snapped, large trees down, roof damage to homes and damage to trailers. Mark Elland with the Rock County 911 Communications Center said at 8:15 p.m. that no deaths or injuries had been reported but significant damage occurred in the area along with downed power lines. "There's basically a whole gamut of things," Elland said describing the damage, adding that "reports are still coming in." The storm made its way into the Milwaukee area and moved out over Lake Michigan by 10 p.m. No warnings were in effect in the state as of 8:30 p.m. Thursday night's storm generated this lighting bolt over Sijan field in Bay View. Much of the Milwaukee area experienced hail, strong winds and lightning. We Energies reports about 1,500 customers without power in southeastern Wisconsin shortly before 11 p.m. After reporting up to 3,700 customers without power, Alliant Energy reports only about 300 customers are without power. While this is the first February tornado in Wisconsin, the state has seen three during the month of January. The most recent January tornado being in 2008, according to the National Weather Service. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Confirmed Wisconsin tornado reported in Evansville, Madison area Hillary Clinton, Sheryl Sandberg and a coalition of scholars, government officials and legal experts discussed Friday how to prevent sexual violence as a weapon of war. We have seen an epidemic, an alarming epidemic of gender-based violence as a weapon of war, Clinton said during her opening remarks at the event in New York hosted by Columbia Universitys Institute of Global Politics and the Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security. Clinton, the former Secretary of State in the Obama administration, is a member of Columbias faculty. This should be viewed as the global problem that it is, but sadly it is nothing new, Clinton added, noting this issue re-emerged during recent conflicts in Sudan, Darfur, Ukraine, and in Israel on Hamas October 7 attack. Israeli authorities have accused Hamas militants of committing widespread, systemic sexual violence as part of their attack. Despite mounting evidence from Israeli investigators and eyewitness sources, Hamas has repeatedly denied allegations that its fighters committed sexual violence during the attack. Sandberg, the former chief operating officer of Facebook and founder of the nonprofit group Lean In, interviewed women who have been working on addressing this issue in Ukraine and Africa, emphasizing that it is important to learn from past conflicts where these atrocities have occurred in order to prevent these same horrors from taking place in the future. Each conflict sets the precedent for the next, Sandberg said. How we handle each one matters for what happens in the future. Sandberg has been raising awareness to the reports of widespread sexual violence on October 7, and previously spoke out alongside Clinton at a UN event last December in New York that broadcast witness testimony and other evidence of rape being used as a tool of war during the attacks. I feel so strongly that no matter the politics of a situation, rape can never be overlooked, because that would set such a dangerous precedent for people all over the world, Sandberg said Friday. Sheryl Sandberg (right) speaking during a Columbia University panel about sexual violence against women during wars and conflicts on Friday, February 9, with Jeffrey Gettleman, Global Correspondent at the New York Times (center) and Hala Al-Karib, Regional Director, Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa (SIHA) and Oleksandra Matviichuk, Nobel Peace Prize-Winning lawyer and Head of Center for Civil Liberties (joining virtually). - From Columbia School of International and Public Affairs Sandberg interviewed Oleksandra Matviichuk, a Nobel Peace Prize-winning lawyer who has been documenting Russias war crimes against civilians. Matviichuk said sexual violence during the war in Ukraine is violence that is directed to the whole Ukrainian society. The survivors of sexual violence feel shame because it happens with them, Matviichuk said. Their relatives, families, neighbors feel guilt because they cant stop this. And the other members of communities, they they feel fear, because they can be treated in the same way. Some speakers called for new approaches to academic research. Others identified policies or collaborations that could help. Clinton ultimately called for more support from the UN and other international players in holding accountable perpetrators of this type of violence. Accountability is critical in preventing gender violence, Clinton said. Its particularly important when the violence is committed by people in positions of authority, including the military or the police force. Part of the reason these crimes are so rampant is because they are perpetrated with impunity, Clinton added. Finally, Clinton implored that the conference on Friday was not merely about the symbolism of women in leadership roles with her and Sandberg as headliners. It is about understanding deeply, the very real ways that women and girls are impacted differently by global challenges including this challenge of conflict-related sexual violence, Clinton said. Linda Thomas-Greenfield at Columbia University's panel "Preventing and Addressing Conflict-Related Sexual Violence" today. - From Columbia School of International and Public Affairs Clintons remarks at Columbia University and remarks by some other speakers were briefly interrupted by protesters chanting Free Palestine. Linda Thomas-Greenfield, former US Ambassador to the UN seemingly addressed these protestors at one point, recognizing there are a lot of emotions about all of these issues. Please be assured that there is no issue thats related to sexual violence, violence anywhere in the world that were not concerned about and were not working on every single day, Thomas-Greenfield said. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Internet connectivity was shut down for a third day in Sudan amid ongoing clashes between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) that have left thousands killed and millions displaced in nearly 10 months of fighting. Internet monitoring firm, Netblocks confirmed the outage Friday, saying that a near-total telecoms blackout has limited communication in the country and prevented the Sudanese people from seeking safe zones and accessing healthcare and banking services. The Sudanese foreign ministry blamed the RSF for the blackout which further complicates the dilemma of millions of locals unable to flee the conflict and who the UN says are in dire need of humanitarian aid. The RSF has yet to publicly deny responsibility for the blackout. The UN on Wednesday appealed for $4.1 billion to meet the most urgent humanitarian needs amidst epic suffering in Sudan, adding that half of its population - some 25 million people need support and protection, with millions hungry and displaced by the war. Citizens facing acute hunger The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and the UNs Refugee Agency (UNHCR) launched the joint appeal, seeking $2.7 billion for humanitarian aid to 14.7 million people, and $1.4 billion to support nearly 2.7 million refugees in five countries neighboring Sudan. Ten months of conflict have robbed the people of Sudan of nearly everything their safety, their homes and their livelihoods, said the UNs emergency aid chief Martin Griffiths, adding that last years appeal was less than half funded. While the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary RSF have both failed to honor their previous commitments to facilitate humanitarian aid for civilians, attacks on humanitarian workers, facilities and supply convoys have taken place since the wars outset. Humanitarian aid has been severely hampered by the fighting and lack of access. The RSF on Thursday, in an apparent effort to deflect responsibility for the large scale civilian suffering in Sudan called for prompt action from regional and international organizations and agencies to provide urgent relief, adding that Sudanese civilians were facing the real possibility of starvation. The organizations head, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, in a post on X, wrote that the crisis is largely due to the obstruction of humanitarian aid by the opposing forces. Nearly 18 million people are facing acute hunger, according to OCHA, with civilian infrastructure like water supplies damaged by the fighting, and three-quarters of health facilities not functioning in conflict areas. Some 19 million children not attending school, continued widespread human rights violations, and gender-based violence are among the challenges cited in the UNs funding appeal. The war that erupted in April 2023 between Sudans Armed forces and the paramilitary RSF has created the worlds largest displacement crisis, with children making up nearly 4 million of those fleeing their homes. In Sudans North Darfur Zamzam camp for displaced people, at least one child dies every two hours from malnutrition, according to estimates by the Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), also known as Doctors Without Borders. Sudans two warring factions have been accused of gross human rights violations. The US determined that both SAF and RSF members have committed war crimes, holding the latter responsible for crimes against humanity and ethnic cleansing in Sudan. The International Criminal Court prosecutor said there are grounds to believe genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity are being committed in Sudans Darfur region by both SAF and RSF, and their affiliated groups. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Mark Ruffalo (L) and Jennifer Garner attend a ceremony honoring Ruffalo with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Feb. 8, 2024, in Los Angeles. As Mark Ruffalo received his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, he and Jennifer Garner had a sweet way of honoring "13 Going on 30" as the rom-com's 20th anniversary approaches. The "Poor Things" star, 56, on Thursday was honored with the 2,772nd Walk of Fame star near the Stella Adler Academy of Acting & Theatre, where he studied for seven years after arriving in Hollywood as an 18-year-old aspiring actor. During the ceremony, Garner, actor Tim McNeil and director David Fincher all sang Ruffalo's praises. Meanwhile, the "Hulk" actor humbly described himself as "a kid from Wisconsin who came from a blue-collar family who were immigrants from Italy who really struggled to make a beautiful life for themselves but who were not artists, really." "And somehow I ended up here," he said. Jennifer Garner reveals Mark Ruffalo 'tried' quit '13 Going on 30' over 'Thriller' dance Mark Ruffalo, left, and Jennifer Garner attend a ceremony honoring Ruffalo with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Feb. 8, 2024, in Los Angeles. At the Hollywood Boulevard ceremony, Garner was a pinch hitter for the "beautiful, COVID-struck Laura Dern," who had been slated to give a speech. Instead, Garner wrote a speech on the way over to the event after finding out she would be subbing in the previous evening. As one of the final speeches, Garner was there to "elucidate rom-com Ruffalo!" she said. In "13 Going on 30," Garner played Jenna, a teen who wakes up to find herself as an adult version of herself, and Ruffalo plays her best friend and partner in crime (and eventual love interest), Matty. "I know this is the question you were all wondering, so I'm just going to cover the elephant in the room: Why wasn't I asked to do this in the first place?" Garner said. "I kicked off the Mark Ruffalo rom-com era!" Garner went on to put her former co-star in the hot seat. She invoked her peers, including Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon and Gwyneth Paltrow, and said: "I wonder if these esteemed ladies enjoyed Mark's anxiety as much as I did. I wonder if he tried to drop out of their films like he did out of ours after the first rehearsal of the 'Thriller' dance, where Mark went from kind of shocked that we actually had to do this to antsy to a deathly quiet to a 'Bro, this is not for me.'" Garner recalled that as the "13 Going on 30" cast rehearsed a dance scene to Michael Jackson's "Thriller," Ruffalo "went from kind of shocked that we actually had to do this to antsy to a deathly quiet to a 'Bro, this is not for me.'" Next to Garner, Ruffalo laughed and covered his face. Jokes aside, Garner praised her friend's skill and good nature. "Your work on 'Poor Things' deserves all of the awards. All of them. But the real success is in how thrilled and delighted your colleagues are to have the opportunity to life you up and celebrate you," Garner said. Even after Garner called him out for his trepidation over doing the choreographed sequence, Ruffalo showed he was game as the two whipped out Michael Jackson's iconic move from the music video as they posed for photos. Mark Ruffalo says he almost quit acting 'five, six, different times' When it was his turn to address the crowd, Ruffalo acknowledged all of the recognition he'd been showered with all afternoon. "Man, I don't know who these people are talking about," Ruffalo joked. "I've been standing here in tears the whole time." He paid tribute to his star's location, where nearly 40 years prior he had first arrived on a bus to hone his acting craft. Keen Ruffalo, from left, Mark Ruffalo, Bella Ruffalo and Sunrise Coigney attend a ceremony honoring Ruffalo with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Feb. 8, 2024, in Los Angeles. "There's nothing that's difficult in life that isn't in some way worth it, whether you make it or not. And that nothing worth a good ... damn in life is easy. So hang on," he said. "Because there's no reason I should've been here. And I tried to quit five, six, different times. ... My friends who said don't quit, my mom said don't quit, my brother said don't quit, my wife said don't quit." He added, "There's no reason I should be here, but I'm here." Mark Ruffalo on 'Poor Things': Sex scenes, Oscar talk and the villain that got away This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Mark Ruffalo, Jennifer Garner reunite as '13 Going on 30' turns 20 An earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 4.6 on Friday rocked a Los Angeles region that has been battered by a series of winter storms since last week. The quake was centered about 7 miles northwest of Malibu, in mountainous terrain near Los Angeles County's northern coastline, according to data from the U.S. Geological Survey. It struck at 1:47 p.m. local time, the USGS said. At least two aftershocks at preliminary magnitude 2.7 and 3.0 were recorded after the 4.6 earthquake, according to the USGS. Los Angeles County Fire Department spokesperson Fred Fielding told NBC Los Angeles an earthquake of that magnitude is only going to cause minor damage, he said. The Los Angeles Fire Department said on social media platform X that residents should check their residences and neighbors. "After surveying your home for #quake damage and assuring no injuries, please check on your pets and at-risk neighbors, especially seniors living alone," it said. LAFD spokesperson Erik Scott told NBC Los Angeles that there has been "no significant damage" so far. A Ventura County Fire Department X account said the department was fully operational and reporting no injuries. The U.S. Tsunami Warning System said no wave threat was likely from the temblor. Despite its mellow nature, the earthquake might have been felt by as many as 12 million people, Caltech geophysics researcher Allen Husker, citing USGS data, said on NBC Los Angeles. A ShakeAlert went out to the cellphones of MyShake app users and other subscribers to the USGS-run system. The alerts warn residents about an earthquake before it reaches many users, giving some time to take cover. The system is still evolving and depends on the addition of seismometers. It is available to an estimated 50 million residents of California, Oregon, and Washington. The area of the earthquake has numerous faults, including the Malibu Coast Fault, which runs from an area near Point Dume east toward the city of Santa Monica. Lucy Jones, a former USGS seismologist who founded the Dr. Lucy Jones Center for Science and Society, said as time goes on the potential the quake was a foreshock to something bigger diminishes rapidly. But she told NBC Los Angeles it's a good time to remind Californians to be prepared for a bigger one. Her top recommendation is to have drinking and potable water on hand, because a major earthquake is likely to disrupt water supplies. "The most important thing you can do is make sure you have water stored," she said. The region was battered by a trio of storms since last week, bringing historic amounts of rain and flooding to areas from Ventura County to the U.S.-Mexico border. Friday's temblor struck on a date that marks one of the region's most damaging earthquakes, the 1971 magnitude 6.6 Sylmar earthquake, named for L.A.'s northernmost neighborhood. It was blamed for 64 deaths and more than $500 million in damage, the USGS said. There's a bottlenose dolphin swimming through Australia's waters that's anything but typical. Researchers say the marine mammal is covered in a rare coloration that only a handful of other dolphins that have been photographed have and that earned it a unique name: Speckles. While surveying Southern Queensland's Hervey Bay in September 2022, researchers with Australia's University of the Sunshine Coast said they spotted a pod of half a dozen dolphins. That's when one dolphin leapt out of the water and left the researchers stunned. "Speckles leapt out of the water three times in an upright, vertical position, while the rest of the group traveled in a 'porpoising' movement," researcher and lead author of the study documenting the dolphins, Georgina Hume, said in a news release from the university. "This allowed us to get a very clear look at its underside which had many white areas, along with white stripes across its dorsal and lateral sides." A bottlenose dolphin named The "near-symmetrical white patches" hadn't previously been seen in their years-long research of the species. And because the dolphin appeared to be healthy overall aside from a healed shark bite on its side researchers said that eliminated the possibility the discoloration could have been caused by disease or sunburn. So what caused it? An "extremely rare skin condition" called piebaldism, the university said. It's so rare that Speckles is one of only 24 reported cases in dolphins and one of only six photographed cases of dolphins having the condition in the world. This is the first documented case among the species in Australia, and the second documented in the southern hemisphere. Behavioral ecologist Alexis Levengood said in the university's news release that the condition is similar to albinism, a genetic mutation that results in the absence of melanin, and leucism, the partial loss of pigmentation that, unlike albinism, doesn't affect the eyes. This dolphin spotted in Australia's waters is one of only a handful in the world photographed with what's believed to be an extremely rare skin condition. / Credit: Georgina Hume/University of the Sunshine Coast "Piebaldism is a partial-loss of pigmentation so the individuals show this patchy coloration," Levengood said in the release. She also told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation that "the best part of science happening in real life is where you get to see something for the first time and really experience it." "I've worked in this field for about 15 years across three different continents," Levengood told ABC, "and I've never seen it myself firsthand, so once we brought back the photos it was a pretty exciting afternoon for us." The discovery was published in the scientific journal Aquatic Mammals. Researchers don't yet know the dolphin's sex, but they hope to get more images, as well as conduct genetic sampling, to learn more about the condition. While Speckles is one of only a few dolphins known to have the condition, there are more documented cases among other species. Pharma exec won't commit to selling life-saving drug in U.S. for lower price offered in Canada Eye Opener: 5 Marines found dead after helicopter crash in California Missing Marines found dead The U.S. Marine Corps on Friday released the identities of the five Marines who were killed after their helicopter crashed while flying from Nevada to California during a routine training mission. They were Lance Cpl. Donovan Davis, 21, of Olathe, Kansas; Sgt. Alec Langen, 23, of Chandler, Arizona; Capt. Benjamin Moulton, 27, of Emmett, Idaho; Capt. Jack Casey, 26, of Dover, New Hampshire; and Capt. Miguel Nava, 28, of Traverse City, Michigan. All were assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. They were based at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California. The helicopter they were in, a CH-53E Super Stallion, went missing Tuesday and was found Wednesday in a remote area covered in snow in Southern California. The crew was flying from Creech Air Force Base in Nevada, north of Las Vegas, to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, when the aircraft was reported overdue, the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing said in a statement. Its unclear what caused the crash, which occurred as a winter storm brought days of heavy rain and snow to the San Diego area. An investigation is ongoing. Nava, one of the pilots aboard the helicopter, had just become a father, his family said. He and his wife welcomed a baby boy about four months ago, according to Javier Nava, the pilots father. His wife is just destroyed, he told NBC News before boarding a flight to San Diego. Javier Nava said he had just spoken to his son a few days ago. Because the elder Nava was driving a far distance, his son called to make sure he was well-rested and not driving if he was tired. He was always that way, he said. The Marine Corps said Nava was commissioned in 2017 and received the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon. His father said he was dedicated to his family and the nation and that he loved flying. Miguel was a human being to be admired, he said. Davis, a helicopter crew chief, enlisted in 2019 and was promoted last month to the rank of Lance Corporal, the Marine Corps said. His father, a retired Navy Captain and pilot, said the family was struggling to understand the operational necessity for flying into one of the worst storms in southern California history." We ask that the Department of Defense conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances behind the decisions that [led] to this event so that we may have some understanding and closure for the seemingly senseless loss of our son and brother, Gregory Davis said in a statement. The younger Davis decorations include the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and a Sea Service Deployment Ribbon. His father said he was an amazing young man who took his job seriously and was proud to be a Marine. There are no words to describe how saddened we are by his tragic loss. We grieve for the fact that his life ended so prematurely and he will always be in our hearts," Gregory Davis said. Langen, also a helicopter crew chief, enlisted in 2017. His decorations include the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and two Sea Service Deployment Ribbons. Moulton, Casey and Nava were all pilots aboard the Super Stallion. Moulton and Casey were both commissioned in 2019 and received the National Defense Service Medal. We have been confronted with a tragedy that is every service familys worst fear, Lt. Col. Nicholas J. Harvey, commanding officer of HMH-361, said in a statement Friday. Our top priority now is supporting the families of our fallen heroes, and we ask for your respect and understanding as they grieve," Harvey added. "The Flying Tigers family stands strong and includes the friends and community who have supported our squadron during this challenging time. We will get through this together. The Marines have been using the powerful Super Stallion to transport heavy equipment, supplies and troops for more than 30 years, according to the Navy, which the Marine Corps is part of. The aircraft has been previously scrutinized due to repeated mechanical failures. In 2014, a Super Stallion carrying 25 service members crashed due to the catastrophic failure of one of the aircrafts engines, although all the passengers survived. Then in 2018, four Marines were killed when their Super Stallion crashed during a training mission in Southern California. A Marine investigation found the crash was caused by a defective part, according to a lawsuit filed by the families of the Marines against the supplier and manufacturer of the part. The case was settled two years ago, according to Dave Casey, the San Diego attorney representing the pilots. The settlement is confidential. The five pilots and crew members in the latest crash were serving a calling greater than self and were proud to do so, Maj. Gen. Michael J. Borgschulte said in a statement. We will forever be grateful for their call to duty and selfless service, Borgschulte said. In a statement Thursday, President Joe Biden called the Marines our nations finest warriors. Our service members represent the very best of our nation, he said, and these five Marines were no exception. DUBAI (Reuters) - Several Arab foreign ministers discussed the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza at talks in Riyadh, Saudi state media reported on Friday, following a Middle East tour by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken that stirred hopes for a long-awaited Gaza truce deal. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday rejected Hamas' latest terms for a ceasefire and return of hostages held in the Gaza Strip, but Blinken said there was still room for negotiation toward an agreement. Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan called for Thursday's meeting in Riyadh, which included the foreign ministers of Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates along with the Secretary-General of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) Hussein al-Sheikh, Saudi state news agency SPA reported. The Arab ministers emphasised the need to reach an immediate and complete ceasefire in Gaza and "the importance of taking irreversible steps to implement the two-state solution," SPA added, referring to Israeli recognition of a Palestinian state. They also expressed support for the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) after 16 countries suspended their funding to the agency following Israeli claims that a dozen of its employees took part in the Oct. 7 attack on Israel. The United Arab Emirates foreign minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan called for an intensification of efforts to prevent the expansion of conflict in the region during the meeting, the UAE state news agency said on Friday. (Reporting by Nayera Abdallah and Ahmed Elimam; Editing by Toby Chopra, Philippa Fletcher and Ros Russell) A man was shot in the head during a road-rage-fueled dispute in a Chick-fil-A parking lot, Minnesota cops said. Police say Isaac Gutierrez, 20, shot the man in the head. He was arrested and charged with two counts of second-degree murder and assault with a dangerous weapon, court documents show. Jose Gutierrez Ojeda, 26, was also arrested and charged with second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon and terroristic threats. Attorney information for both Gutierrez and Gutierrez-Odeja was not listed as of Feb. 8. The man who was shot, driving a Chevy Suburban, arrived at the Chick-fil-A parking lot in Rochester at about 2 p.m. Feb. 3 to pick up a family member from work, according to a criminal complaint. A Nissan truck backed into a parking lot, blocking the Suburban. The Suburban driver followed the truck to the adjacent lot and multiple men got out of each car, witnesses told police. They began yelling at each other. Then, a physical fight between three men broke out with a fourth man later joining, officials said. One of the men from the Nissan got out of the truck holding a gun, according to the complaint. Police say Gutierrez ran up to the group and fired a shot at the man. The man was taken to the hospital where he later died, Rochester police said in a Facebook post. Rochester is about 90 miles southeast of Minneapolis. Road rage crash ends with 2 girls thrown from SUV, 5 others injured, Michigan cops say Officers need canoe to catch man accused of threatening to kill ex, Michigan cops say Nightclub security guard killed in targeted attack while leaving work, Ohio cops say Washington is abuzz with fresh concerns about President Joe Bidens fitness after a special counsel report released Thursday raised questions about his memory. But Democrats have rallied around Biden and despite the fantasies of some pundits and anxious Democrats, the president is almost certain to be the Democratic Partys nominee as long as he wants. Both parties have moved away from the era when insiders in proverbial smoke-filled rooms could be kingmakers at the national conventions, and Biden has dominated every primary hes competed in thus far. No prominent Democrats have called for Biden to step aside and there's no known serious conservations about it. The Democratic Party is united in supporting President Biden, who will be his partys nominee this fall and will make Donald Trump a loser a second time this November, said Biden campaign spokesperson Daniel Wessel in a statement to NBC News. In the modern era, a national party has never attempted to adversarially replace their nominee in part because they know it would likely fail. The issue came before both parties in 2016, but neither took such drastic action. The Access Hollywood tape provoked some prominent Republican leaders to call for ditching Donald Trump, but then-RNC Chairman Reince Priebus said, No such mechanisms exists." Meanwhile, then-interim DNC Chair Donna Brazile wrote in her memoir that she nearly replaced" Hillary Clinton after the candidate collapsed during a Sept. 11 memorial service, before ultimately concluding, I could not make good on my threat to replace her. Still, the DNC Charter does make provisions in case the partys nominee is incapacitated or opts to step aside, and an anti-Biden coup at the convention is theoretically possible, if highly unlikely. So how would it work? Is it too late for another Democratic candidate to get into the race? Only a small handful of states have held Democratic presidential primaries thus far. But there is still not enough time for a new candidate to enter the race and beat Biden outright. Filing deadlines for about 80% of upcoming contests have already passed and cannot be easily changed since they are set in each state. There are not enough delegates at stake in the remaining contests where ballot access is still open to win a majority. Of course, a Democrat could opt to run as a write-in candidate (though not every state allows write-ins). And Democratic Party rules can be changed. As private organizations, the Democratic and Republican National Committees are legally given a wide berth over how they select their nominees. But Biden essentially controls the national party, as is standard practice for whichever party controls the White House. Any changes to the partys nomination rules would go through the DNCs Rules and Bylaws Committee, stacked with Biden allies, which essentially rubber-stamped his controversial new 2024 presidential primary calendar putting South Carolina ahead of New Hampshire, even though the committee was not previously expecting to do that until the night before the vote. What happens if Biden drops out before the convention? Biden has said he will remain in the race and there is no indication otherwise, but the only plausible scenario for Democrats to get a new nominee would be for Biden to decide to withdraw. He could do so while serving out the remainder of his term in the White House, as Lyndon Johnson did in 1968. If Biden were to drop out between now and August, it would most likely create a free-for-all at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago in August. If Biden calls it quits before he wins the majority of the Democratic delegates, it likely wouldn't make a difference. Any new candidate who tried to enter the race would be unlikely to get on enough of the remaining ballots and therefore couldn't win enough delegates. Ultimately the decision would likely come down to the convention delegates who were initially pledged to Biden. It takes a majority of the roughly 4,000 pledged delegates to win the partys nomination. Under recent reforms, the partys more than 700 superdelegates Democratic lawmakers and dignitaries are allowed to vote only if no one wins a majority of pledged delegates on the first ballot, so their votes could be crucial in a contested convention. Biden would have some influence over the pledged delegates he won through the primaries, but ultimately, they can vote as they please. His long-shot primary challengers, Rep. Dean Phillips, D-Minn., and self-help author Marrianne Williamson, who suspended her campaign this week, have won no delegates so far. And simply having run won't mean that they move to the front of the list in the event of a vacancy. Could Democrats replace Biden against his will? Theres no evidence the party would entertain a change without Bidens consent. But even if they did, there is no mechanism for the national party to replace a candidate before the convention and certainly no way for them to anoint a chosen successor. If large swaths of the Democratic Party lost faith in Biden, delegates to the national convention could theoretically defect en masse. Of course, they were chosen to be delegates because of their loyalty to Biden and have pledged to support him at the convention. But, unlike many Republican delegates, Democratic delegates are not technically bound to their candidate. DNC rules allow delegates to in all good conscience reflect the sentiments of those who elected them, providing some wiggle room. The partys charter does contain provisions to replace the nominee in the event of a vacancy. The measure is intended to be used in case of death, resignation or incapacitation, not to replace someone who has no desire to step down. That was the measure Brazile considered invoking after Clinton collapsed two months before the 2016 election. In her memoir, released a year later, Brazile wrote that she was worried not just about Hillarys health but about her anemic campaign ... so lacking in the spirit of fight. Perhaps changing the candidate was a chance to win this thing, to change the playing field in a way that would send Donald Trump scrambling and unable to catch up, she wrote, adding that aides to other would-be candidates contacted her, including chief of staff to then-Vice President Biden. But after less than 24 hours of consideration, Brazile realized the idea was untenable without Clintons cooperation and likely to only divide her party. Current DNC Chair Jaime Harrison is a longtime Biden ally who serves, essentially, at the pleasure of the president. And the national party has certainly given no indication it's anything but fully behind the presidents re-election. What happens if Biden withdraws after the convention? To fill a vacancy on the national ticket, the DNC chair can call a special meeting of the full Democratic National Committee, which includes about 500 members. On paper, at least, all it takes is a majority vote of those present to pick a new presidential and vice presidential nominee. But that process would likely be anything but smooth, and be filled with behind-the-scenes jockeying and public pressure campaigns. If a vacancy were to occur close to the November election, however, it could raise constitutional, legal and practical concerns. Among other issues, ballots have to be printed well in advance of the election and may not be able to be changed in time. Would Kamala Harris replace Biden? If Biden were to relinquish the presidency, Vice President Kamala Harris would automatically become president but not the Democratic Partys nominee. Nor would she necessarily be the nominee if Biden withdrew from his re-election bid while remaining in the White House. She might be politically favored, but party rules give the vice president no major mechanical benefit over other candidates. Bidens delegates would not automatically transfer to Harris and the convention holds separate votes on nominees for president and vice president. So she would still need to win a majority of delegates at the convention. If the top of the ticket was vacated after the convention, she would still need to win a majority of votes at the special meeting of the DNC. That is all, at least, under current party rules. But a vacancy at the top of the ticket is the kind of dramatic moment that might lead party leaders to revisit them in the name of easing the transition. Harris has some close allies in key places at the DNC, including the co-chair of the partys Rules and Bylaws Committee. But nothing would likely happen without a fight. Money in politics is a fact of American life. But how does it work in Kentucky? While outside groups funded by large national donors and entities have recently made big waves in Kentucky politics they played an outsize role in the most recent gubernatorial election the majority of political cash raised for races in the state comes from in-state donors pledging their own dollars. These people, their values and their choices can make a serious change in the political arena. Without stepping foot in Frankfort, they are on the list of power brokers that cannot be ignored. In many campaigns, donors and fundraisers help shape not just who wins but what issues the candidates consider once in office. The money they helped raise or donated themselves could prove the difference between their favored party winning, or their preferred Democrat or Republican coming out of the primary. The Herald-Leader spoke with two prominent Kentucky donors and fundraisers, both of whom have carved out major roles in their respective parties, to get a sense of what drives these players to support candidates and causes. Christy Brown, Louisville philanthropist Christina Christy Brown is one of the most prominent philanthropists in Kentucky. Brown, 77, is part of a family who runs the Brown-Forman Corporation, one of the countrys largest spirits and wine companies, with such internationally recognized brands as Woodford Reserve, Jack Daniels and Chambord. In 2020, Forbes ranked the Brown family as the 13th wealthiest in the nation. Her late husband, Owsley Brown, was a top executive at the company for decades before his passing in 2011. The family is still deeply involved in the 154-year-old companys governance. Shes also a major fundraiser, primarily for Democratic candidates, in the state. I used to think, Well, I voted for this person, and I thought long and hard about that, so now Im finished and they need to go do the work, Brown said. Well, they cant do it alone; they just cant. We have to all work together and be committed to a healthy society. Brown who founded a prominent interfaith organization, is funding research on the health benefits of urban greenery and helped found two health-centered organizations now part of the University of Louisville said she approaches giving to and fundraising for political causes in much the same way she would a nonprofit organization. She said she evaluates candidates through the lens of the circle of harmony & health, a product of her nonprofit A New Vision of Health, that puts equal emphasis on all aspects of societal health. We need to be empowering more and more people to care about working for the health of our communities, in all its forms, Brown said. People call that democracy, Brown told the Herald-Leader she and her husband were Republicans for a long time, but they switched registration around the time of the war in Iraq. In the past few years, Brown has given over $900,000 to Democrats and Democrat-aligned organizations, according to figures from the Federal Elections Commission and the Kentucky Registry of Election Finance. Major donations have been made to political action committees supporting Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg; President Joe Biden; and former attorney general candidate Rep. Pam Stevenson, D-Louisville. She also contributed heavily to Gov. Andy Beshears re-election. (Beshear) is not an angry leader. Hes not an irrational leader hes a healthy leader, Brown said. A fundraiser that Brown hosted for Beshear in his successful 2023 cleared $1 million, breaking a record for money raised in a single event. Brown also, through a recommendation from her son, played a key role in helping to bring Emerge, an organization that trains Democratic women to run for office, to come to Kentucky. Since its founding, the share of Democratic officeholders who are women has skyrocketed. Bob Hutchison, Johnson County-based philanthropist Bob Hutchison is one of Eastern Kentuckys most prominent businessmen, philanthropists and political donors. A former owner of 13 McDonalds stores in the region, the 69-year-old Johnson County business executive runs Hutch auto dealerships in the region as well as a convenience store. Still chair of the Appalachia-centric Fifth Congressional District, hes become a power broker for Republican candidates looking to gain support in the mountains. He sees this work as equally important to holding office because, like Brown, Hutchison has a set of criteria for supporting candidates that he believes serve a positive end goal: The restoration of Eastern Kentucky. Hutchison said hes always exclusively given to Republicans Johnson County, unlike a majority of Eastern Kentucky counties, is historically more red probing candidates commitment to community involvement and genuine conviction in advancing the interests of the region. Even though Im not running for a statewide or any type of office, Im hosting these fundraisers and things of that nature to bring as much a benefit to the people, Hutchison said. Its to make sure that we can try to get people who are truly concerned about Appalachia (in office). Hutchison says he has no desire to run for elected office outside of the Johnson County School Board, where hes served since 1994. He also serves the region in a nonprofit capacity as chair of the Christian Appalachian Project, a faith-based initiative targeting poverty in Eastern Kentucky. Once Daniel Cameron became the Republican gubernatorial nominee in 2023, Hutchison was one of the top donors to a political action committee supporting Cameron. He gave it $200,000. Though hes been a prolific donor himself, Hutchison is well-known for hosting fundraisers in the region, given his sizable network with business leaders there. He held fundraisers in Paintsville for many statewide office-seekers this past year, with one for Cameron generating almost a quarter of a million dollars. Its been a pleasure being able to do what I do: Keeping the future of East Kentucky in the commonwealth top of mind, Hutchison said. ADDIS ABABA (Reuters) - Ethiopia's deputy prime minister Demeke Mekonnen, who has occupied the post for over 11 years under three successive prime ministers, will be replaced by spy chief Temesgen Tiruneh, a senior government official told Reuters on Friday. Temesgen was elected to succeed Demeke as a vice president of the ruling Prosperity Party, state-run media reported. A vice president of the party typically serves as deputy prime minister. Demeke has been a face of continuity during a turbulent period in Ethiopian politics. He was appointed to the post after the death of longtime prime minister Meles Zenawi in 2012 and survived a reorganisation of the ruling party that occurred after Abiy Ahmed took power in 2018. Temesgen is the head of the national intelligence service and has coordinated the government's response to a conflict that broke out last year in the Amhara region with local militias. Abiy appointed Demeke as foreign minister days after civil war broke out in November 2020 in the northern Tigray region, a conflict that lasted two years and cost tens of thousands of lives. While the government and rebel forces in Tigray signed a peace deal in November 2022, Ethiopia has remained dogged by insecurity. Besides the unrest in Amhara, a decades-long conflict in the Oromiya region, the country's largest, has intensified in recent years, killing hundreds and displacing tens of thousands. (Reporting by Dawit Endeshaw; Writing by Aaron Ross; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne) JOLIET, Ill. (AP) The girlfriend of a man suspected of fatally shooting seven relatives and an eighth person last month in a Chicago suburb pleaded not guilty Thursday to an obstruction of justice charge. Kyleigh Cleveland-Singleton, 21, of Joliet entered the plea in a Will County court. She remains on home confinement. Prosecutors say she provided false information to authorities during their investigation and search for her boyfriend, Romeo Nance, 23. Police say Nance shot and killed seven members of his family and another man before fleeing to Texas, where he shot and killed himself as U.S. Marshalls closed in on him. Prosecutors say the charge stems from Cleaveland-Singleton telling investigators she didn't have Nances phone number. The two have a child together. Joliet police said Cleveland-Singleton agreed to be questioned by police Jan. 22 after she was identified as Nance's girlfriend and the mother of his 3-year-old son. Nance fatally shot himself that day. The eight people who police said Nance fatally shot were found Jan. 22-23, authorities have said. No motive for the slayings has been released. The victims who were fatally shot were identified as Nance's mother, Tamaeka Nance, 47; his brother Joshua Nance, 31; sister Alexandria Nance, 20; two younger sisters, ages 16 and 14; aunt Christine Esters, 38; and uncle William Esters II, 35. Another man, 28-year-old Toyosi Bakare, was fatally shot outside an apartment building. Police said Nance is believed to have randomly fired at him and another man, who was wounded in the leg. Nance fatally shot himself after U.S. Marshals located him near Natalia, Texas, about 30 miles (48 km) southwest of San Antonio and more than 1,000 miles (1,690 km) from Joliet, police said. Sheriff Randy Brown of Medina County, Texas, said he believes Nance was trying to reach Mexico, which is about 120 miles (200 km) south of Natalia along Interstate 35. MONROVIA (Reuters) - Liberia's President Joseph Boakai has commissioned an audit of three key government institutions, including the central bank, as part of efforts to tackle graft, the presidency said on Thursday. Boakai, who defeated his predecessor George Weah in November elections, won on the promise to tackle corruption and improve livelihoods in the West African nation. The anti-corruption push included an audit of the former government. In a statement on Thursday, the presidency said Boakai had asked Liberia's General Auditing Commission to carry out an audit of the central bank, the national security agency and the executive protection service. The inspection will focus on the period from 2018 to 2023, and report its findings within three months. It marks "the beginning of a holistic audit of government ministries and agencies" in line with Boakai's commitment to fighting graft and ensuring transparency, the statement said. The central bank did not immediately respond to a request for comment. In August 2022, Weah suspended three government officials who were sanctioned by the United States for what it said was their ongoing involvement in public corruption. (Reporting by Alphonso Toweh; Writing by Sofia Christensen; Editing by Alexandra Hudson) A Michigan man woke up his wife after looking over his lottery ticket several times. She confirmed what he was seeing. He had scratched off a $6 million prize, according to the Michigan Lottery. Once my wife looked it over and confirmed what I was seeing, I knew we had really won! he told lottery officials. The man is splitting the winnings with his three-person lottery club in Ottawa County, lottery officials said. It all still feels surreal! he told officials. The club decided to take its winnings in a lump sum of $4.1 million. Its still hard to believe that we really won, a club member told the Michigan Lottery. I dont think its going to hit us until we see the new balance in our bank accounts! The three plan to pay off their mortgages and save their winnings, officials said. Ottawa County is about 180 miles northwest of Detroit. Lottery player misses jackpot but still wins big. Theres a party going on right here Woman thought she won $5,000 in lottery but she missed a few zeroes. Such a relief Man thought he was having a heart attack when he checked his Ohio lottery ticket A very strong shaking was felt in a remote part of Hawaii from an earthquake Friday. (Los Angeles Times) A magnitude 5.7 earthquake shook a remote part of Hawaii's Big Island on Friday. It was felt as far as Honolulu, more than 200 miles away, reports said likely because of the depth of the earthquake, calculated at 23 miles under sea level. An earlier estimate calculated the earthquake as magnitude 6.3. At least 10 aftershocks of magnitude 2.5 and higher had been recorded within an hour and a half of the initial temblor, about one every 10 minutes. No tsunami occurred. The Hawaii earthquake was not related to a magnitude 4.6 quake that struck near Malibu a couple of hours later and was felt across a wide swath of Southern California. The earthquake on the Big Island, which occurred on the southeastern flank of Mauna Loa the largest active volcano on the planet had no apparent impact on it or the neighboring Kilauea volcano, the U.S. Geological Survey's Hawaiian Volcano Observatory said. The quake, which occurred at 10:06 a.m. Hawaii time, produced "very strong" shaking in the town of Pahala, with a population of 1,900 on the southern side of the island, as defined by the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale. Very strong shaking can cause considerable damage in poorly built structures. Read more:Malibu earthquake rattles Southern California The earthquake, and several aftershocks, were evident across Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, said Jessica Ferracane, a spokesperson for the park. The Kilauea visitor center at the park is about 23 miles from the epicenter and received light shaking, defined as just enough to rattle dishes and windows. It can feel like a vehicle striking a building. It was definitely a good violent shake," she said. The "visitor contact station shook really, really hard, but so far no reports of damage." No issues were immediately apparent at the massive park, which covers more than 300,000 acres. Read more:Unshaken Earthquakes are common in Hawaii, and this section of the Big Island in particular "has seen a lot of seismic activity since maybe 2015, but especially since 2019, with a whole series of magnitude 5's in this year," said Mike Poland, a geophysicist with the U.S. Geological Survey. The earthquakes might be caused by instability in the deep magma plumbing systems for the Big Island. "It's not directly related to the volcanoes," Poland said. "We wouldn't see, you know, this magnitude 5.7, and then a week later or even a month later, 'Definitely there's going to be an eruption,' " Poland said. "The volcanoes are behaving sort of independently from the activity that we're seeing down in this area that's been very active seismically for the last many years." Tabitha Kamakawiwoole was working at a coffee shop in Pahala when she heard the earthquake coming before she felt it. "You could hear it rolling in, but we couldnt really tell how big," the 19-year-old said. "I didnt know the direction to run to, so she just waited it out, feeling the building shake. Its been awhile since we had a big one like that," she said. She checked the security cameras at her home, noticing that a few windows opened and things fell off the shelf but the biggest impact was her fishbowl: "My poor fish experienced a little tsunami." The fish is OK, though, Kamakawiwoole said, and she hadn't heard of much other damage. It wasnt that big," she said. "Ive lived on this island for a very long time, so really earthquakes [don't] faze me." Read more:Lucy Jones says this is the most important thing you can do to prepare for a quake Light shaking was felt in Hilo, the island's largest town, and Kailua-Kona, home to many of the island's resorts on its western coast. Both communities are about 45 miles from the epicenter. George Baranov was at his gym in Kailua-Kona when he felt what he thought was someone dropping a bunch of heavy weights. I felt the floor shake pretty hard," the 26-year-old said. He said he didn't realize it was an earthquake until talking to someone later. Most people felt the quake, he said, but he hadn't seen any damage so far, adding: "It happens a lot here. The epicenter was about 135 miles southeast of Kahului, the largest town on Maui, and about 215 miles from Honolulu. Other recent large earthquakes on or near the Big Island include a magnitude 6.2 just off the southern coast in 2021, and a magnitude 6.9 in 2018, which was shallower and more strongly felt. The 2018 earthquake occurred as the Kilauea volcano was erupting. The island's most powerful earthquake since Hawaii became a state was a magnitude 7.7 in 1975, with an epicenter about 27 miles southeast of Hilo. "And that was really devastating. It caused a tsunami on the south part of the island of Hawaii that killed a few campers ... on the beach [and] caused an awful lot of damage," Poland said. An even larger earthquake, likely a magnitude 8, occurred in 1868 on the Big Island's southern coast. "And that caused landslides and some mud flows that destroyed at least one Hawaiian community," Poland said. The 1868 and 1975 earthquakes were shallower, "and they were driven by the motion of a very large fault that basically sits at the boundary between the pre-existing ocean floor and the island itself," Poland said. Every and now then, that surface "jumps and slides." In 2006, a magnitude 6.7 earthquake occurred off the northwestern coast of the Big Island, about 17 miles northeast of Kailua-Kona. "And that actually damaged some of the resort areas in the North Kohala district, north of Kona," Poland said. Historic structures were also damaged, including Kalahikiola Congregational Church, which saw its unreinforced stone walls collapse. "Hawaii is definitely earthquake country," Poland said. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Voters are delivering a poor assessment of President Joe Bidens job performance as he and former President Donald Trump prepare for a 2024 rematch. They are also looking back more fondly than before on Trumps tenure in office. Just 14% of registered voters say Biden has done a better job as president than they expected he would, according to the latest NBC News national poll. Another 42% say Biden has done a worse job than they expected, and 44% say his tenure has gone about as they expected it would. But 40% say Trumps presidency was better than expected, with 29% saying it was worse and 31% saying it was about as expected. The marks for Trump are slightly better than they were when NBC News asked the same question about his administration in August 2018. Then, 29% of registered voters said the Trump administration was going better than expected, 27% said it was going worse, and 43% said it was going about as expected. Bidens lower marks come in part from disappointment from inside his own party. While 52% of Democrats say his administration has met expectations, 30% say it has been better than they expected, and 18% said it has been worse. Trump inspires more enthusiastic Republican loyalty, with 80% of his party saying his administration was better than expected and just 6% saying it was worse. Another 24% of Republicans say Trumps tenure was about as expected. Critically, Trump also fares far better than Biden with independent voters 38% of them say Trumps administration went better than expected, 43% say it went as expected, and 18% say it was worse. Just 6% of independents believe Bidens administration is going better than they expected, with 52% saying it has gone worse. When respondents were asked to expand on their feelings about both candidates in short, open-ended responses, many of the answers hinged on the economy and the border. On every front: immigration, the wars, economy, pretty much you name it. He needs to close the border. Hes being pushed around too much. He needs to take charge like a superpower like we are, a male Illinois Republican in his early 40s said of Biden. He was passing out too much money, and it caused inflation to skyrocket, so prices are way too high. Others with low views of Bidens presidency cited his age, their concerns about his competency or frustration that the country still seems divided. The economy is stagnant as Im concerned. I dont see it getting better or worse, but I do not see anything that will improve it, said a New York independent woman who voted for Biden in 2020. In 2020, he ran on bringing us together, and instead he made us further away. Id like to have seen someone bring the country together," she said. How poll respondents who thought Biden's presidency was worse than expected described it. (Hart Research Associates and Public Opinion Strategies for NBC News) Voters in Bidens base are more sympathetic, but many are frustrated by what they perceive as a lack of action on his part. A South Carolina man in his mid-30s who identifies as an independent and said he voted for Biden in 2020 felt he hasnt delivered on his promises during that election, including those on student debt reduction and child care. While Biden pushed for many progressive policies in the 2021 Build Back Better Act, including extending child tax credits and other policies, he didnt have the votes to pass that bill in the Senate. Democrats ultimately agreed on and passed a slimmed-down proposal a year later that lacked some of Bidens signature goals. Nothing has touched me when it comes to Biden at all that I can say, at least, Yeah, there was a trickle down, said Dionne Holt, a New Jersey Democrat who voted for Biden in 2020. Holt added that even though she has seen job numbers and the stock market improve, she isnt sure Bidens policies are responsible. And she added that she continues to see headlines about significant layoffs across the country even amid the broader good news. Nothing really is because of him. Its so strange that I dont feel that, but I just dont feel that way, she said. I just dont see where he has actually, himself, stimulated the economy. Other 2020 Biden voters also criticized his handling of the war between Israel and Hamas. Among the 14% who said Biden has done better than expected, many celebrated an improving economy, his handling of the Covid pandemic, his pushback against Trump and his policies on issues like infrastructure and the environment. Kenichi Nishikawa, a California Democrat in his mid-50s who voted for Biden, said he sees an economy that is turning around, which is the No. 1 reason he believes Biden is doing a good job. I think the economy is doing a lot better than anybody would have expected. I think hes faced the turmoil from the Republican Party better than I expected. I think that hes pushed through some really good programs, like the CHIPS initiative and the infrastructure [law], he said. How poll respondents who thought Biden's presidency was better than expected described it. (Hart Research Associates and Public Opinion Strategies for NBC News) I think the economy is the biggest thing, because it seems like all the numbers are going in the right direction, he said. The vast majority of Republicans have fond memories of Trumps time in office and see a mirror image of the current administration. I think the economy was growing and the country was secure. Well, we had the border, and we had no wars, we had no wars with the other foreign countries, said an Illinois Republican in his mid-50s. How poll respondents who thought Trump's presidency was better than expected described it. (Hart Research Associates and Public Opinion Strategies for NBC News) Independents and even Democrats pointed to similar things, largely the economy and immigration, in explaining why they thought Trumps administration did better than expected. Those who thought Trumps administration was worse than expected largely cited his response to the pandemic, his personal behavior and his actions in regard to rejecting the 2020 election results and to the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. How poll respondents who thought Trump's presidency was worse than expected described it. (Hart Research Associates and Public Opinion Strategies for NBC News) But Holt, the New Jersey Biden voter who had a pessimistic view of his administration, showed the limitations Trump may have even with some voters who believe his tenure went better than expected, as she did. Asked whether her rosier views of Trumps tenure compared to Bidens mean shed give Trump a look in 2024, she replied with an emphatic no way. He just isnt good for the country, Holt said, citing the Capitol attack. You cross a line that you cant come back from, regardless, she said. The NBC News poll of 1,000 registered voters 867 contacted via cellphone was conducted Jan. 26-30 and has an overall margin of error of plus-minus 3.1 percentage points. A 17-year-old boy is dead after a police officer shot him during a welfare check in Nebraska, officials said. The shooting happened Tuesday afternoon as officers with the Columbus Police Department carried out a welfare check on the teen, according the Nebraska State Patrol, which is conducting the investigation into the incident. While at the residence conducting the welfare check, police made contact with the teen, who had a knife, the NSP said in a release Thursday. An officer opened fire and the boy was pronounced dead at the scene. The teen has been identified by the NSP as Chase Ditter, 17, of Columbus. Police said they were initially called to a residence at around 1:00 p.m. on the 3600 Block of 39th Avenue in Columbus, about 90 miles west of Omaha. According to the Nebraska State Patrol, officers were there to check on the boy after reports that he was potentially harming himself. During the encounter, a Columbus police officer discharged their duty weapon, striking the subject. Another officer deployed a taser during the incident, the NSP said. Both officers involved have been placed on administrative leave, the NSP said. The Nebraska State Patrol Special Investigations Team is now investigating the incident. Additional information will be released when it becomes available, police said. The NSP said the CPD requested that it take over the in-custody death investigation. Columbus Public Schools placed two nearby schools, Lost Creek Elementary and Columbus High School, into secure status after police made the district aware of nearby police activity on Tuesday, Nicole Anderson, a spokesperson for Columbus Public Schools, said Anderson said the victim was a student at Columbus High School. Ditters obituary said he was set to graduate in May. The obituary remembered Ditter as an extremely intelligent and accomplished student who was planning to attend the Rochester Institute of Technology in the fall for a cybersecurity masters program. Ditter was the team programmer for his schools robotics team, an officer in the Skills USA program, and was selected by his teachers to compete in multiple math competitions for his school something he was honored to do, according to the obituary. He was an avid volunteer, enjoyed traveling and began logging flight training hours, the obituary said. Ditter had been struggling with depression since the pandemic, the obituary said, but he had been working with health care officials and was very much looking forward to his future. Palestinians in Rafah, the packed city on Gazas southern border, were terrified Friday of an impending Israeli ground assault which the United States and aid groups have warned risks disaster. More than half of the enclave's 2.3 million people have sought shelter in Rafah, crowding tents in refugee camps stalked by growing hunger, disease and more recently fear that there will be nowhere to escape if troops enter the city. Washington said it could not support such an operation without proper planning, world leaders voiced growing alarm, and aid officials warned of a bloodbath. In the face of that pressure, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggested Friday that civilians would be able to flee before the expected ground assault, which he said was necessary in the campaign against Hamas. It is clear that a massive operation in Rafah requires the evacuation of the civilian population from the combat zones, Netanyahu said in a statement on social media. He ordered his military to prepare a plan but offered no further details. The Israeli military did not immediately respond to a request for further details on the plan from NBC News. Israeli airstrikes and bombs havent spared Rafah in this war and have ramped up in recent days but a ground offensive would make an already dire humanitarian situation much worse. NBC News spoke to several residents who described mounting anxiety in the city, the last major population hub in Gaza that has not been taken over by Israeli troops. The last stop was supposed to be Rafah, Isra Shehada, 33, told an NBC News crew on the bustling streets. After Rafah, we only have God. Where can we go next ? But while Palestinians like Shehada saw Rafah as a last refuge, with at least basic infrastructure and aid present, Israel made clear this week that it views the city on the Egyptian border as a last remaining stronghold for Hamas. It is impossible to achieve the war goal of eliminating Hamas and leaving four Hamas battalions in Rafah, Netanyahu's office said Friday. It said he had ordered the military to draw up a dual plan for both the evacuation of the population and the dismantling of the battalions. His comments follow rare public pushback from the U.S., Israels closest ally. Israeli attacks continue in Gaza (Ahmed Zaqout / Anadolu via Getty Images) Israel's War In Gaza Enters Fifth Month, Humanitarian Situation Intensifies (Ahmad Hasaballah / Getty Images) President Joe Biden said Thursday that its response in Gaza has been over the top. John Kirby, the National Security Council spokesperson, said that a ground offensive in Rafah is not something we would support. Vedant Patel, a State Department spokesman, said that going ahead with such an offensive with no planning and little thought in an area where there is sheltering of a million people would be a disaster. Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas denounced Netanyahu's call for an evacuation plan and said a ground assault into Rafah would pose a real threat and a dangerous prelude to implementing the policy of displacing our people. Rafah was home to an estimated 250,000 people before the war, but has since been stretched beyond its limits, according to humanitarian officials, as Palestinians heeding Israeli evacuation calls and chasing relative safety fled to the city. Local health officials say more than 27,900 people have been killed in Gaza since Israel launched its military campaign in the wake of the Oct. 7 Hamas terror attack, which Israeli officials say killed 1,200 people. 'Already a disaster' Any attempt to evacuate from the overcrowded city would be neither feasible nor safe, said Andrea De Domenico, who heads the U.N. humanitarian agency responsible for the Palestinian territories. People are everywhere. This congestion not only makes it difficult for people to move but also hampers any potential evacuation efforts, and humanitarian operations, she said in a statement from Gaza. Satellite imagery shows the sprawling growth of makeshift shelters and tents that have transformed the enclaves southernmost city over the past two months. The city has been beset by soaring food prices, contaminated water and spreading disease. Incidents of theft have hampered what little aid is coming through, which charities describe as a drop in the ocean compared to the need. Rafah is already a disaster, Amira Riyad, 30, said from an overcrowded hut. She said she was sharing a toilet with more than 50 people and struggles to find diapers for her 1-year-old daughter. In some cases, Gazans have been forced to shelter in the most unlikely of places. One family resorted to living in a chicken coop, with young children sleeping atop poultry cage shelves with nothing but flimsy mats and some blankets. Though the smell of the sewage at night is terrible, and the smell of the chicken is nasty, Lana Hanoun, 8, said it was still better than the risk of shelling from which the family had fled several times. But the situation would only be exacerbated by a ground assault. The United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees, which has been the main humanitarian relief provider on the the ground since the onset of hostilities, warned it may be forced to cease operations. No war can be allowed in a gigantic refugee camp, said Jan Egeland, secretary-general of the Norwegian Refugee Council, warning of a bloodbath if Israeli operations expand there. As Palestinians have been pressed toward Egypts doorstep, towering concrete walls stand ominously at the border a reminder of their perilous situation. Egypt has warned against any action that could force a mass displacement of Palestinians across its border. Israeli-Palestinian conflict Rafah (Mohammed Talatene / DPA via Getty Images) Egypt's Rafah border crossing with Gaza is mostly sealed, but has been the main entry point for humanitarian aid. The vast majority of Gazans are unable to cross, however. The news of a potential Israeli operation was very frightening, said Mustafa Banna, who lived farther north in Gaza city before the war. What worries the 29-year-old graphic designer most is the fate of his seven-month pregnant wife and his 6-year-old daughter Ayla. He said he wished he could cross into Egypt to ensure the health of his wife and children. We have no relatives or friends to displace to. Where should I go with my big family? SYDNEY (AP) Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape on Thursday become the first Pacific leader to address Australias parliament, vowing nothing will come in between our two countries. The nations announced that Australia will spend AU $100 million (US $65.3 million) on Papua New Guineas internal security, including the development of a police recruiting and investigation training facility and a police barracks. The speech, Marape's meeting with Australian counterpart, Anthony Albanese, and the neighbors' release of details of a security pact signed in December, come as Pacific nations deal with Chinas growing ambitions. Resource-rich Papua New Guinea has rebuffed overtures from China, which struck a security pact with Solomon Islands in 2022 that caused worry among some in the region. Papua New Guinea, which is in a strategically important part of the South Pacific, struggles with tribal violence and civil unrest and wants to increase its police numbers from 6,000 officers to 26,000. Anger over high unemployment and cost of living led to rioting and looting last month in its two biggest cities. Papua New Guinea and Australia reaffirmed their commitment to the regions existing security architecture as a key driver of security cooperation, a joint statement between Marape and Albanese said. Papua New Guinea is a nation of mostly subsistence farmers where some 800 languages are spoken. With 10 million people, it is the most populous South Pacific nation after Australia, which is home to 26 million. Australia Foreign Minister Penny Wong said Marapes historic speech elevated Australias relationship with the Pacific. We know that China is a great power asserting its interests, she told reporters. What we are doing is reemphasizing our part in the Pacific family and the importance of that engagement. After last months civil unrest, a number of Papua New Guinea ministers resigned and an under-pressure Marape may soon face a vote of no confidence. We must become a strong country standing on our own two feet, economically independent and strong so we too can help Australia maintain democracy, preserve peace and ensure stability.... in our Pacific, he said in his speech. By Nellie Peyton and Bhargav Acharya JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa used a major speech in parliament on Thursday to play up his party's achievements over the last 30 years, but gave little detail about his plans to address the country's current major challenges. Ramaphosa's African National Congress (ANC) party, which has governed since Nelson Mandela led it to victory in the first post-apartheid democratic election in 1994, is heading into its most competitive campaign yet. Many polls indicate it will lose its absolute parliamentary majority in a vote expected to be held between May and August, forcing it to choose a coalition party to hold onto power. South Africa is facing record power shortages and a logistics crisis at its rail and port operator Transnet which have strangled business activity and slowed growth in Africa's most industrialised economy. In his annual State of the Nation Address, Ramaphosa acknowledged these problems. But he laid out few new solutions, and was occasionally met with jeers from lawmakers. "Over the last three decades ... we have transformed the lives of millions of South Africans, providing the necessities of life and creating opportunities that never existed before," Ramaphosa said. He portrayed the ANC as having guided South Africa safely through challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and rampant corruption, and said the last five years had been a time of "rebuilding and renewal". The ANC came to power as the liberation movement that fought racist rule in South Africa. But many of today's young voters were born after freedom was won and have grown up instead in an era marked by disappointment and disillusionment with the country's leaders. South Africa remains among the most unequal countries in the world with a gaping wealth disparity. Repeated corruption scandals have tarnished the party and undermined its moral authority in the eyes of many. The unemployment rate is at its highest ever, with more than 30% of South Africans out of work. Many of South Africa's economic woes stem from years of mismanagement and under-investment in state-owned enterprises, which Ramaphosa pledged to reform when he took office in 2018. "The effects of state capture continue to be felt across society, from the shortage of freight locomotives to crumbling public services, from the poor performance of our power stations to failed development projects," said Ramaphosa. State capture is a term for the kind of systemic political corruption that defined the era of Ramaphosa's predecessor Jacob Zuma. But some lawmakers jeered when he touted his corruption-fighting record. Ramaphosa survived his own corruption scandal in 2022. In one bit of policy news, he said the state would extend and improve social grants it introduced during the COVID pandemic, without giving further details. John Steenhuisen, the leader of the main opposition Democratic Alliance party, called the speech "a laundry list of recycled projects and promises that have been made since 2018 that haven't come to fruition." Analysts had predicted ahead of the address that it was unlikely to move markets. "People know what the state of the nation is. It's not good," said Louw Nel, senior political analyst at Oxford Economics Africa. (Additional reporting by Wendell Roelf in Cape Town; Editing by Joe Bavier and Daniel Wallis) A U.S. citizen is being held in detention by Israeli forces in the occupied West Bank over alleged incitement on social media. Samaher Esmail, 46, a Palestinian American who lives in New Orleans, had been staying at a home she owns in Silwad, near Ramallah, when she was arrested early Monday, her son Ibrahim Hamed said. The Israel Defense Forces confirmed her arrest, saying in a statement that it conducted an operation Monday in the Silwad area to arrest wanted suspects. Esmail had returned to the West Bank in November in part to attend a hearing with Israeli officials related to an encounter with Israeli forces in December 2022, Hamed said. Ibrahim Hamed with his mother, Samaher Esmail at an unknown date. (Courtesy Ibrahim Hamed) As part of the operation, Samaher Esmail was arrested for incitement on social media, the IDF said. Suspects arrested in the operation were transferred to the security forces for further questioning. The IDF would not comment on what specific social media posts triggered the arrest. Rights groups have warned that free speech is being threatened in Israel and the occupied West Bank in the wake of Hamas Oct. 7 attack and the war in Gaza. A State Department spokesperson told NBC News it was aware of reports of detention of a U.S. citizen in the West Bank and is trying to get more information. Videos shot by Esmails neighbors in Silwad on Monday show her blindfolded, handcuffed and without a hijab, and being taken away in the early hours in a jeep. A review of her Facebook account by NBC News revealed posts that appeared to praise Hamas fighters and the Oct. 7 attacks. She also reposted a video on Oct. 13 that contained antisemitic tropes about blood libel and referring to Jews as pigs. A selfie posted by Samaher Esmail to Facebook shows the date 10/07/2023 and Arabic text that translates to There were also photos on Esmails Facebook that appeared to show her with a gun. Hamed, 27, who also lives in New Orleans and works at Xavier University of Louisiana, denied that his mother was antisemitic or supported Hamas. He also told NBC News that a photo of her carrying a gun was taken during his wedding in Louisiana, where gun ownership is legal, and not taken in the West Bank. We dont discriminate against anyone, Hamed said from New Orleans. Maybe there is a bit of frustration due to everything that has been done to her. Its not hatred; its frustration. Hamed, who added that his mother was an American citizen who likes the Second Amendment and enjoys free speech, said he had learned about his mothers detention in a call from his grandmother soon after it happened. Hamed said a relative went to Esmails house Monday morning to lock it up and sent photos and video of damage in the home to her family in Louisiana. These show broken windows, shards of glass littering the floor and a crumpled cerulean prayer mat. religion religious muslim prayer mat islamic faith (Courtesy Ibrahim Hamed) The IDF did not comment further when asked about the damage to Esmails home. Hamed said he had heard from his mothers lawyer and was concerned about her treatment and whether she was receiving her medication. NBC News requested comment from Esmails lawyer via Hamed, but he said she had declined. My mom was supposed to come back [to the United States] in a month or two because she has doctors appointments, Hamed said, adding that she had been diagnosed with ovarian cancer two years ago and subsequently underwent a hysterectomy. Since then, he said the tumors have returned, and she was being treated for kidney stones. Hamed told NBC News that his mothers lawyer visited her in prison and was concerned about her health and alleged mistreatment in detention. He also alleged that his mother wasnt being given her medication. A spokesperson for the Israeli prison service said Esmail was being given medical treatment for problems that arose even before her arrest. All her rights are granted to her according to all laws, the spokesperson added. Hamed said he and other relatives had urged his mother not to go to the West Bank after the war broke out, but Esmail had responded that she did not believe the military would target her. He said she had wanted to attend a hearing scheduled this week with the IDF where she planned to ask that soldiers whom she accused of beating her at a checkpoint near Ramallah in 2022 be punished. They pulled her and hit her with a rifle and broke two ribs as a result, Hamed said of the 2022 incident. In a statement to NBC News on the 2022 incident, the IDF said that during an operation by the security forces in the Ein Yabrud area, the forces conducted vehicle inspections. During one of the inspections, a subject approached the soldier who distanced her from them. The suspect remained on the side of the road until the inspection was completed and was released as usual without any complications. Rep. Troy Carter, D-La., who represents the New Orleans area, wrote on Facebook that he has been in touch with the State Department, as well as the U.S. Embassy in Israel, to inquire about Esmail. I am aware of and extremely concerned by the detainment of Samaher Esmail in Palestine, he said in a post Monday. I am praying for her safety. Another Palestinian American and Louisiana native, Tawfic Hafeth Abdel Jabbar, 17, was shot dead in the West Bank last month. His family said he was a victim of rising Israeli settler violence in the region. Hamed said his family knew Jabbar well; they were from the same community in Louisiana. There has been a dramatic spike in violence in the West Bank in recent months, with Israeli security forces and Jewish settlers killing more than 300 Palestinians since the start of the Israel-Hamas war, according to the United Nations. On Feb. 1, President Joe Biden issued an executive order targeting Israeli settlers in the West Bank. Israel says most deaths in the West Bank are not settler-related but instead can be attributed to security forces carrying out counterterrorism raids against militants. The IDF said it will continue to do so to protect and prevent further terror attacks. By Michelle Nichols and Kanishka Singh UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) -United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday expressed concern about violence in Pakistan and the suspension of mobile communications services on election day in the South Asian nation, his spokesperson said in an emailed statement. Pakistan counted votes after polling ended on Thursday in a general election marred by militant attacks and suspension of mobile phone services, with no indication of a clear leader hours after voting closed - an unusual delay compared to previous polls. Mobile phone services were suspended early on Thursday and were being partially resumed late into the night, the Interior Ministry said late on Thursday, citing security reasons for the suspension, which was also condemned by rights groups such as Amnesty International. The main contest was expected to be between candidates backed by jailed former prime minister Imran Khan, whose party won the last national election, and the Pakistan Muslim League of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, whom analysts say is backed by the powerful military. "As Pakistan awaits the results of the elections, the secretary-general encourages all political leaders and society segments to maintain a calm atmosphere, as well as refrain from the use of violence and any actions that could increase tensions," U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said. "It is important for all candidates and supporters to ensure that human rights and the rule of law are fully respected in the interest of the Pakistani people and (to) resolve any disputes that might arise through established legal procedures," the spokesperson added. Earlier this week, the U.N. human rights office denounced violence against political parties and candidates in the lead-up to Thursday's vote. It particularly voiced concern over the "pattern of harassment, arrests and prolonged detentions of leaders and supporters" of Khan's Pakistan Tehreek e Insaf (PTI) party. Multiple legal cases have been brought against Khan, which disqualified him as a candidate and sentenced him to long prison terms. He denies wrongdoing. Khan was ousted in 2022 after falling out with the country's powerful military, which denies meddling in politics. Thousands of troops were deployed on the streets in Pakistan and at polling stations across the country. Despite the heightened security, nine people, including two children, were killed on Thursday in bomb blasts, grenade attacks and shootings. At least another 26 were killed on Wednesday in two explosions near electoral candidates' offices in the southwestern province of Balochistan. Islamic State later claimed responsibility for those attacks. Earlier on Thursday, the U.S. State Department also said it was concerned about steps taken to "restrict freedom of expression" in Pakistan, especially related to phone and internet access. (Reporting by Michelle Nichols; writing by Kanishka Singh; editing by Sandra Maler and Lincoln Feast.) Joe Biden didnt remember what year his beloved son Beau died. He wasnt sure which years he served as Vice President. He had limitations in his recall during interviews with investigators. Those are all observations that Special Counsel Robert Hur decided to include in his 388-page report released Thursday on why he wasnt pursuing charges against Biden over classified documents found in his Penn Biden Center office and his Wilmington home. White House officials immediately thought Hur, a Republican and former Trump appointee, crossed a line, and implied some of those observations might not be true. Hours later, Biden himself took things further, holding a rare evening press conference at the White House to furiously dispute Hur's characterizations of his mental acuity. Biden took particular umbrage with the report's allegation that he had forgotten when Beau had died. "How in the hell dare he raise that," Biden said. "Frankly, when I was asked the question, I thought to myself, wasn't any of their damn business," the President continued, adding that he carries with him every day a rosary that belonged to Beau and his family holds a service for Beau every Memorial Day. "I don't need anyone to remind me when he passed away," Biden said. "For any extraneous commentary, they don't know what they're talking about. It has no place in this report." Fox News reporter Peter Doocy asked Biden to respond to the report's description of him as "a well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory." "I'm well meaning and I'm an elderly man and I know what I'm doing. I've been President, I put this country back on his feet," Biden said. He then joked to Doocy: "My memory is so bad, I let you speak." "My memory is fine," Biden went on. "Take a look at what I've done since I've become President. None of you thought I could pass any of the things I got passed. How'd that happen? I guess I just forgot what was going on." But a few minutes later, Biden undercut those assurances while he answered a question about a ceasefire in Gaza, saying "Mexico" instead of "Egypt" when talking about Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. Biden's impromptu press conference capped a remarkable few hours at the White House following the report's release. While there was relief in Bidens circle that a criminal case wont be pursued, the special counsels descriptions played into existing concerns over Bidens memory. The swiftness of the White Houses push back late Thursday was a reminder of the political stakes as both Bidens and former President Donald Trumps campaigns have questioned the others mental acuity. The report comes at the end of a week when Biden was criticized for using wrong names for the leaders of France and Germany while giving remarks. An NBC News poll released Tuesday found that 62% of voters have major concerns that Biden doesnt have the mental and physical health to be President for a second term. Bidens lawyers were quick to criticize Hur, a Republican, for including subjective descriptions of Bidens mental acuity in his lengthy and detailed report. "We disagree with a number of inaccurate and inappropriate comments in the Special Counsels report. Nonetheless, the most important decision the Special Counsel madethat no charges are warrantedis firmly based on the facts and evidence, said Special Counsel to the President Richard Sauber. Biden's personal lawyer Bob Bauer added in a separate statement that Hur had violated Justice Department norms by including extraneous, unfounded and irrelevant critical commentary. In his report, Hur wrote that during both days of questioning in October Biden forgot which years he was vice president, and that Biden didn't remember, "even within several years," when his son Beau died. The report concluded that a trial would be hard to win and that Biden's legal team "would emphasize these limitations in his recall" to fend off a conviction. Ahead of the reports release, some people close to Biden were resigned to those damaging details, and the fact that there was little they could do to counteract them. It is what it is, says a White House official. Hur served as Trumps U.S. attorney for Maryland, and resigned from the position when Biden took office, a common practice among U.S. attorneys during a transition in the Oval Office. Last year, Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed Hur as a special counsel to oversee the ongoing investigation into the classified documents found on Bidens classified documents investigation. Soon after the reports release, Biden addressed the House Democratic Caucus at an event Thursday evening in Leesburg, Virginia. The President described sitting down for his interview with Hurs team on October 8 and 9, the two days following Hamas deadly massacre in Israel. I was in the middle of handling an international crisis, Biden told those gathered in a resort ballroom. Biden didnt bring up Hurs description of his memory lapses. Biden said he spoke to investigators for five hours over two days. The special counsel acknowledged I cooperated completely. I did not throw up any roadblocks. I sought no delays, Biden said. The special counsel decided no criminal charges are warranted" and that the evidence didnt establish Bidens guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Hur found evidence that Biden had disclosed some sensitive information to a ghost writer and intentionally held on to some classified material, he wrote. The prosecutor concluded that Biden had left the White House with handwritten notes containing sensitive intelligence information and had shared that information with an author helping him write his 2017 memoir "Promise Me, Dad." In his remarks Thursday evening in Virginia, Biden noted how different his documents investigation was to his predecessor. Trump has been charged with mishandling classified documents and obstructing justice by Special Counsel Jack Smith for taking boxes of classified documents to his Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach, Florida, and his club in Bedminster, New Jersey. When the federal government discovered Trump had taken material home from the White House after leaving office, Trump refused for months to return it. I was especially pleased to see the senior Special Counsel make clear theres stark differences between this case and Donald Trump, Biden said. Bottom line is the special counsel in my case decided against moving forward on any charges. This matter is now closed. The questions about Bidens handling of classified documents may be wrapped up, but those around Bidens memory are not. Contact us at letters@time.com. MADISON, Wis. (AP) Wisconsin Republicans urged the state Supreme Court on Thursday to ignore a report from redistricting consultants that determined GOP-proposed legislative maps were unconstitutional partisan gerrymanders. While Republicans argue that the consultants' findings are unsound, Democrats asked the court on Thursday to adopt one of their maps that the consultants found were nearly indistinguishable. The stakes are huge in battleground Wisconsin, where Republicans have held a firm grip on control of the Legislature even as Democrats have notched significant statewide wins. Four of the past six presidential elections have been decided by less than a percentage point, while Republicans have increased their majorities under the maps they first drew in 2011 to 22-10 in the Senate and 65-34 in the Assembly. The liberal-controlled Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled in December that the current Republican-drawn legislative maps were unconstitutional because not all the districts were contiguous. The court ordered the parties involved in the lawsuit to submit new maps that a pair of consultants then reviewed. With the report and responses now in hand, the court is poised to rule within days or weeks on what the new maps should look like, unless the Republican-controlled Legislature passes maps that Democratic Gov. Tony Evers signs into law first. Republicans are talking about passing the maps that Evers proposed, which the governor indicated on Wednesday he would sign. Evers last week vetoed maps the Legislature passed that were based on his proposal but made changes to protect Republican incumbents. Republican Assembly Majority Leader Tyler August said Thursday there have been discussions with Senate Republicans about passing the Evers maps with no changes. While those talks continue, the Supreme Court accepted responses Thursday from Republicans and Democrats to the consultants report. The court and Legislature are facing a March 15 deadline to enact new lines. That is the latest that maps can be in place in order for current filing deadlines for the fall election to be met, according to the Wisconsin Elections Commission. Attorneys for the Legislature argued in their court filing Thursday that the consultants' report was about finding a political remedy to redistricting, not addressing the continuity issue. There is no judicial power, only political will, to impose any of the Democrats sweeping redraws as a judicial remedy, the Legislature argued. The Legislature also hints at an appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court, saying that moving millions of voters from one legislative district to another as the Democratic map proposals would do raises serious federal constitutional questions. The conservative Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty made a similar argument, saying adopting the reasoning of the consultants in rejecting it and the Legislature's maps would be an egregious due process violation. Republicans have also argued that liberal Justice Janet Protasiewicz should not have heard the case, given that she called the current Republican maps rigged and unfair during the campaign and accepted about $10 million in donations from Democrats. She was part of the 4-3 majority that voted to toss the Republican maps. Democratic senators, in their Thursday filing, urged adoption of their plan, saying it offers the best chance for the majority of votes to translate into the majority of legislative seats. The people of the State of Wisconsin will once again be able to choose their representatives, not the other way around. WASHINGTON President Joe Biden sidestepped any criminal charges as the investigation into his handling of classified documents concluded, but the political blowback from the special counsels report Thursday could prove even more devastating, reinforcing impressions that he is too old and impaired to hold the highest office. Special counsel Robert Hurs portrait of a man who couldnt remember when he served as Barack Obamas vice president, or the year when his beloved son Beau died, dealt a blow to Bidens argument that he is still sharp and fit enough to serve another four-year term. In deciding not to charge Biden with any crimes, the special counsel wrote that in a potential trial, Mr. Biden would likely present himself to a jury, as he did during our interview with him, as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory. It was tough enough for Biden to reassure voters about his heath before Hurs report hit like a thunderclap Thursday afternoon, prompting members of his own party to question whether he could remain the nominee in November. Its a nightmare, said a Democratic House member who asked to speak anonymously to provide a frank assessment, adding that it weakens President Biden electorally, and Donald Trump would be a disaster and an authoritarian. For Democrats, were in a grim situation. Biden wasted little time before attempting to minimize the fallout. He held an unexpected exchange with reporters in the White House on Thursday night, in which he disputed Hur's assessment of his mental acuity. Biden grew emotional when invoking the part of the report addressing the date of his son's death. "How in the hell dare you raise that?" Biden said. "Frankly, when I was asked the question I thought to myself, 'It wasn't any of their damn business.' " Beyond devastating Polling has long shown that age looms as Bidens greatest liability in his expected rematch with Trump. A January poll by NBC News found that 76% of voters have major or moderate concerns about Bidens mental and physical health. Its been a problem since way before this ever happened, said a longtime Democratic operative who noted that when focus groups are asked to apply one word to Biden, it is often old. Just this week, Biden twice referred to conversations hes had as president with foreign leaders whove long since died. In his remarks Thursday night defending his competency, while talking about the war in Gaza, he referred to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi as being the head of Mexico. White House press aides have downplayed such lapses as the sort of mistake anyone in public life can make. The Hur report strips away the defenses that Bidens press operation has used to protect him and raises fresh doubts about whether Biden is up to the rigors of the presidency, Democratic strategists said in interviews. This is beyond devastating, said another Democratic operative, speaking on condition of anonymity to talk candidly about Bidens shortcomings. It confirms every doubt and concern that voters have. If the only reason they didnt charge him is because hes too old to be charged, then how can he be president of the United States? Asked if Hurs report changes the calculus for Democrats who expect Biden to be the partys nominee, this person said: How the f--- does it not? Another Biden ally called it the worst day of his presidency. I think he needs to show us this is a demonstrably false characterization of him and that he has what it takes to win and govern. Biden has overwhelmingly won the first primary contests notching victories in New Hampshire, South Carolina and Nevada. It would be virtually impossible for anyone else to challenge him at this point; the deadline has passed in more than 30 states to get on primary ballots. Some of the presidents allies were quick to defend him. They pointed to the timing of the interview with the special counsel days after Hamas attack on Israel, which had captured much of the presidents focus. Others said that in their own dealings with Biden, he shows no sign of infirmity. He did so well in this discussion with members, Rep. Susan Wild, D-Pa., told NBC News after seeing the president on Thursday. Hes very sharp, no memory issues, and his only stumbling is when he trips over words consistent with his lifelong speech impediment. Prejudicial language Though Biden was fortunate to escape indictment, the special counsel report may give Trump additional fodder as he fights charges for allegedly mishandling classified records at his Mar-a-Lago social club. Republicans are already accusing Biden of benefiting from a double standard. Trump will likely brandish the Hur report as proof that Biden has weaponized the Justice Department for political advantage. Whats more, Democrats will now be hard-pressed to capitalize on Trumps indictment over retaining classified records. Before Hurs report came out, Democrats argued that the two cases were very different. Whereas Trump failed to turn over classified records even after he was asked to do so, Biden willingly cooperated with authorities and relinquished all the material he had, Biden allies had argued. The public understands the essential difference between presidents or vice presidents like Joe Biden who occasionally behaved in sloppy ways with respect to where they were taking documents, and a president like Trump, who deliberately makes off with hundreds of classified government documents and then hides them and refuses to return them, Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., said on Wednesday, before the report was released. (Trump has denied any wrongdoing.) Now, the distinctions may be harder for Biden allies to draw, given that Hur wrote that there was evidence Biden willfully retained and disclosed classified material after his vice presidency when he was a private citizen. The report mentions an instance in February 2017, when he was no longer vice president, when Biden read notes containing classified information nearly verbatim to a ghostwriter helping him with his book, Promise Me, Dad. Storage of sensitive government secrets was haphazard. The report describes certain classified records involving the war in Afghanistan in Bidens Delaware garage inside a badly damaged box surrounded by household detritus. Before the report was released, Biden aides had been bracing for a finding that he had simply been careless in his treatment of classified records, a person familiar with the White Houses thinking said. The political fallout from the report, though, is likely to be worse, this person said. What will stick in peoples minds is what Hur said about Bidens memory, the person added. Bidens lawyers disputed the reports description of Bidens forgetfulness. We do not believe that the reports treatment of President Bidens memory is accurate or appropriate, two of his lawyers wrote in a letter to Hur. The report uses highly prejudicial language to describe a commonplace occurrence among witnesses: a lack of recall of years-old events. In the hours after the report was released, people close to the Biden campaign rolled out a different rebuttal. Jim Messina, who ran Obamas 2012 re-election campaign, wrote on X, the site formerly known as Twitter, that Hur is a Republican who knew exactly how his swipes could hurt Biden politically. Thats a familiar argument. Trump has also claimed that law enforcement is trying to sway the election, meaning both sides are now claiming victimization at the hands of partisan prosecutors. Hur knew exactly what he was doing here, Stephanie Cutter, a veteran Democratic operative, wrote on X. To provide political cover for himself for not prosecuting, he gratuitously leveled a personal (not legal) charge against the president that he absolutely knows is a gift to Trump. And, guess what we are all talking about? Stormont First Minister Michelle ONeill has expressed the hope that her attendance at a PSNI graduation ceremony will encourage more nationalists to join the police in Northern Ireland. Ms ONeill said she believed it was the right juncture in the regions policing journey for Sinn Fein to be represented at an attestation event for new recruits for the first time. The Sinn Fein vice president became Northern Irelands first ever nationalist first minister last weekend when powersharing returned to Northern Ireland. She broke new ground again on Friday when she and party colleague Gerry Kelly attended the passing out event at the PSNI training college in east Belfast. DUP deputy First Minister Emma Little Pengelly and Alliance Party Justice Minister Naomi Long were also among guests to watch on as six new recruits formally graduated as constables. The presence of leading Sinn Fein figures comes amid police concerns at stalling efforts to boost Catholic representation in the PSNI, 23 years after its formation as part of peace process policing reforms. The targeting of Catholic officers by violent dissident republicans has been cited as a key factor in falling numbers of applications from members of the nationalist community. DUP deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, Chief Constable Jon Boutcher, First Minister Michelle ONeill and Justice minister Naomi Long attending a PSNI graduation ceremony (Liam McBurney/PA) Ms ONeill said it was important to have a police service that is fully representative of the community it serves. Its a great day for the six graduates who have now been attested this afternoon and I wish them the very best for their future career in policing, she said. I think its so important that our policing service reflects the diversity of our society that we have, so I wanted to be here and be part of wishing these new constables the very best in their journey. I became First Minister last Saturday. I said I would be a first minister for all and that includes these new constables who have graduated today. She added: Were all on a journey. And I think the fact that where we are now in terms of the policing journey, its the right juncture in which to be here and to be part of what is a special day for those new constables. Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly shakes hands with chief constable Jon Boutcher (Liam McBurney/PA). Ms ONeill suggested changes to the attestation ceremony in recent years were a factor in Sinn Fein deciding that now was the time to attend. She also reflected on changes in policing across the last quarter of a century. I think we are in a much, much better place we look at the last 26 years of the Good Friday Agreement and how society has transformed, she said. That is also relevant to the policing community here too. So I think that our policing service needs to reflect the diversity of society so I think there is a lot more to be done in terms of trying encouraging others to come forward. I hope my presence here today encourages young nationalists to come forward, but also women and people from minority backgrounds and members of the LGBTQ community they need to be reflected in the service because this is a community service to support people out there. So I think the more we can do to call on others to be involved, I think thats better. In 2020, Ms ONeill became the first senior Sinn Fein figure to attend a recruitment campaign launch for the PSNI, posing with posters showing policing as a positive career choice. Deputy First Minister Ms Little-Pengelly said she wanted Northern Ireland to reach the point where politicians supporting the police was not a big news story. I think that today is a key day, she told reporters after the attestation event on Friday. In the St Andrews Agreement (2006), the DUP made it an absolute red line that before government, people should sign up to support policing and support the rule of law. I believe that is the right thing and was the right thing to do. And I think that today actually is a representation of how much that has been embedded. But what I would really like is to get to the point where its not a big news story that ministers in our government support the police, but that it is taken as an absolute minimum. And I know that working together moving forward, were going to send that message to all in the PSNI, and I pay tribute to all of the police officers who serve right across Northern Ireland and who have served in the RUC and the PSNI, that their incredible sacrifice and their contribution will never be forgotten and will never be allowed to be rewritten. PSNI chief constable Jon Boutcher, who greeted the ministers on arrival at the college and accompanied them during their time on site, said their presence at the graduation ceremony was fabulous for the police. This is great news, he said. The Executive being in place is wonderful news for everybody in Northern Ireland, and certainly all public services. To then get the First Minister, the deputy First Minister and the Justice Minister here for this passing out event today, this attestation, is again fabulous for the organisation. So I think what we need to focus on is the positives this is normalisation of policing. We talk about representation, the PSNI needs to represent all of our communities, our emerging communities, all of our communities, so we get their trust and confidence. Thats the journey were on. DUP deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, Chief Constable Jon Boutcher, Policing Board member Gerry Kelly and Policing Board Chair Deirdre Toner applaud as PSNI graduates throw their caps (Liam McBurney/PA) Mr Boutcher also took the opportunity to reiterate his call for more support to tackle the PSNIs current financial difficulties. The Justice Minister and the First and deputy First Ministers know, like everybody else in public services, we need the organisation to be funded so we can recruit the numbers we need, and we can pay them properly, he said. Theyve got a big job to do. The fact theyve taken the time to come here today, I think is a huge mark of where we are going with regards to not just the PSNI but Northern Ireland. Ms Long made clear the graduation ceremony was not about her or her Executive colleagues. Today is not actually about any of us, she said. It is about the young officers, the young constables who have just graduated today, who have stepped into space that is a difficult one and a challenging one, and have done that on behalf of the community. Its also about their families. Because joining the police service is something that comes with a degree of sacrifice, not just for the individual, but for the family as well, and we reflected on that during the ceremony. So I think its important that we focus on those young people who have stepped up and said they want to play a role in creating a better society. We want to work together in the Executive to support them in being able to do that and I think that thats the message of today. Prince Harry will receive a substantial payout after settling the remaining parts of his phone-hacking case against the publisher Mirror Group Newspapers (MGN), his lawyer told the High Court in London Friday, according to the UKs PA Media news agency. Lawyer David Sherborne told the court that MGN, which publishes British tabloid The Daily Mirror , will pay the Duke of Sussex a substantial additional sum by way of damages as well as his legal costs, PA Media reported. In December, the judge ruled that Prince Harry was the victim of phone hacking and other means of unlawful information gathering by MGN. The judge awarded Harry 140,600 ($177,000) in damages in the ruling. Everything we said was happening at Mirror Group was in fact happening, and indeed far worse, as the court ruled in its extremely damaging judgment, Prince Harry said in a statement read by his lawyer outside court Friday. As the judge has said this morning, we have uncovered and proved the shockingly dishonest way the Mirror Group acted for many years and then sought to conceal the truth, he said. Prince Harry initially submitted 33 articles for consideration, with the judge finding that 15 stories published by MGN were based on unlawful information gathering such as phone hacking and the use of private investigators. A further 115 articles were part of his claim, which could have been the subject of a further trial, but Prince Harrys lawyer told the High Court on Friday that a settlement had been reached between the Duke of Sussex and MGN, according to the PA report. The Duke of Sussex had sued the British newspaper group, which also publishes The Sunday Mirror and Sunday People, alongside three other claimants, alleging that its journalists illegally intercepted his voicemails and used other illicit means over a roughly 15-year period. He gave evidence in court as part of the case, a virtually unprecedented move for a senior British royal. On Friday, he took aim at Piers Morgan, the former editor of the Mirror who, Harry said, knew perfectly well what was going on, as the judge held. Even his own employer realized it simply could not call him as a witness of truth. His contempt for the courts ruling and his continued attacks ever since demonstrate why it was so important to obtain a clear and detailed judgment, Harry added. As I said back in December, our mission continues. I believe in the positive change it will bring for all of us. It is the very reason why I started this, and why I will continue to see it through to the end. CNN has reached out to Morgan for comment. Morgan, who served as editor of the Daily Mirror from 1995 to 2004, has previously denied any knowledge of or involvement in illegal activity, such as phone hacking. Following the UK High Courts December ruling that Harry was the subject of extensive phone hacking, Morgan said: Ive never hacked a phone or told anybody else to hack a phone and nobody has produced any actual evidence to prove that I did. I wasnt called as a witness by either side in the case, nor was I asked to provide any statement. I would have very happily agreed to do either or both of those things had I been asked. Harry has railed against the tactics of the British media since splitting from the royal family in 2020, and made his case against MGN a centerpiece of his efforts to force tougher regulations on the press. The prince made a brief visit to the UK earlier this week after his father, King Charles, revealed he had been diagnosed with cancer. Harry then appeared at the NFL Honors award ceremony in Las Vegas on Thursday, presenting the Man of the Year award. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Sam Altman is CEO of OpenAI. Patrick Fallon/Getty Images OpenAI chief Sam Altman reportedly wants to raise trillions of dollars to address the chip shortage. The Wall Street Journal reported that he's held talks with investors including the United Arab Emirates. Altman proposed a partnership with OpenAI, chip makers, and investors to finance GPU chip plants. Sam Altman is aiming to raise as much as $7 trillion to significantly increase the world's supply of semiconductor chips, The Wall Street Journal reported. The OpenAI chief has been talking to prospective investors including the United Arab Emirates government about his proposals to help solve the global chip shortage. One potential backer Altman's been courting is the UAE's Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed al Nahyan, with the pair meeting recently, the Journal reported, citing unnamed sources. Altman is said to be presenting his idea as a partnership with OpenAI, chip makers, and investors who can finance GPU chip plants. The facilities will then be run by established chip makers, the report says. GPUs are computer chips used to power the likes of ChatGPT, process graphics, and can speed up processes for deep learning. According to leading chipmaker Nvidia, GPUs have been hailed as the "gold" of artificial intelligence as they're crucial to the development of generative AI. Last year Altman predicted that the "brutal crunch" caused by the chip shortage would ease in 2024 as more players permeate the market, he told the Financial Times. The OpenAI CEO's also been vocal about the need for greater infrastructure to support AI's advancement. He said in an X post this week: "We believe the world needs more ai infrastructure--fab capacity, energy, datacenters, etc--than people are currently planning to build. building massive-scale ai infrastructure, and a resilient supply chain, is crucial to economic competitiveness. openai will try to help!" OpenAI made more than $2 billion in revenue last year, the FT reported on Friday, also citing unnamed sources. The company was only founded in 2015 and the result would put it alongside the likes of Google and Meta in an elite club of Silicon Valley startups to post $1 billion in annual revenues within their first decade. OpenAI didn't immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider, made outside normal working hours. Read the original article on Business Insider Two people were killed Friday afternoon when a small plane that had lost both its engines crashed into a vehicle on a Florida interstate as the pilot attempted to make an emergency landing, authorities said. The victims have been identified as pilot Edward Daniel Murphy, 50, of Oakland Park, Florida and second in command Ian Frederick Hofmann, 65, of Pompano Beach, Florida, the Collier County Sheriff's Office said Saturday afternoon. Five people were on board the private jet when it crashed near a highway exit in Florida's Collier County, creating a fiery debris field that caused officials to close Interstate 75, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and Collier County Sheriff's Office confirmed that two people died in the collision. Naples-area resident Jinny Johnson came upon the crash just minutes after it happened, as she was heading north on I-75 around 3:20 p.m. "All of a sudden I saw a lot of black smoke," Johnson said. "It was pitch black. As I got closer, the smoke got a little lighter. And then I saw flames." Flames shot into the air, eating into the plane, and there was a damaged car sitting on the median, Johnson said. As she crept north, sticking to the lane on the far side of the road to give herself as much space from the plane as possible, she watched everything unfold. The plane was traveling from Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, to the Naples, Florida airport and was scheduled for travel to Fort Lauderdale, said Robin King, the director of communication with the Naples Airport Authority. She said the airport lost touch with the plane just before it crashed around 3:10 p.m. It left Ohio at 12:30 p.m. "It was coming in for a landing," King said. "We received word that it had possibly lost an engine ... Then we lost contact." In a transcript released of the final call from the pilot, the pilot tells an air traffic controller they won't make the runway. Pilot: "Okay, Challenger, Hop-A-Jet 823, lost both engines, emergency. I'm making an emergency landing." Controller: "I've got an emergency. Clear to land Runway 23. Pilot: "We're clear to land, but we're not gonna make the runway. We've lost both engines." A plane crashed on Interstate 75 in Naples on Friday, Feb. 9, 2024. Federal officials investigating the crash The plane made impact at 3:12 p.m. according to the National Transportation Safety Board. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles told USA TODAY that at least two vehicles were involved in the collision and said closures had impacted north and southbound traffic on I-75. The southbound lanes were still closed as the investigation continued into the evening, the Florida Highway Patrol in Southwest Florida said in a social media post shortly before 8 p.m. Friday. The plane was a private jet, a Bombardier Challenger 600 operated by Hop-A-Jet Worldwide Charter based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, according to aircraft tracker FlightAware. Hop-A-Jet did not respond to an email and phone message from USA TODAY seeking comment. Hop-A-Jet released a statement late Friday saying it had "received confirmed reports of an accident involving one of our leased aircraft near Naples" and that it would dispatch a team to the crash site. "Our immediate concern is for the well-being of our passengers, crew members, and their families," the statement said. According to NTSB and Aviation Safety Network records, Friday's collision of the Hop-A-Jet flight was at least the seventh fatal crash involving that series of Bombardier private jets since 2000. While some of the crashes were due to issues with the aircraft, others were caused by pilot error or other factors, the reports indicated. Naples Airport dispatched firetrucks with a special foam-type substance that can help control jet fuel fires. Florida Highway Patrol troopers were on the scene. The NTSB said the crash was considered an accident. Officials said the airport in Ohio is a commercial site. OSU spokesman Ben Johnson confirmed that nobody from OSU was associated with the flight. The NTSB told USA TODAY it had opened a probe into the crash, and an investigator arrived at the accident site Friday afternoon. Several more were expected to arrive on Saturday. The agency will examine the scene and aircraft before it is transferred to a facility for further inspection. Investigators will review the actions of the pilot, aircraft and environment, including aircraft maintenance records, the weather, the pilots credentials, witness statements and more, the NTSB said. Emergency officials work the scene of plane crash on I-75 in Naples near exit 105 on Friday, Feb. 9, 2024. Two people were confirmed dead. Two small plane crashes in Florida in two weeks Fridays collision is at least the second small plane crash in Florida this month. Last Thursday, a single-engine Beechcraft Bonanza V35 crashed into a mobile home park in Clearwater, Florida, near Tampa, shortly after it reported an engine failure. The collision set four mobile homes on fire, and an FAA report said the crash killed the pilot and two people on the ground. The pilot was the only person on board the aircraft, the FAA said. According to the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, there were 1,124 general aviation accidents in 2021, the latest available year of data, and 202 of the accidents were fatal. FHP Troopers on the scene of a small airplane landing on southbound Interstate 75, near mile marker 107 (Pine Ridge Road), Collier County. This is a breaking news story: check back for updates. Contributing: Dan Glaun USA TODAY Network's Naples Daily News, Fort Myers News-Press and Columbus Dispatch journalists Liz Freeman, Alex Martin and Shahid Meighan, and the Associated Press contributed to this report. This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: 2 dead after plane crashes on Florida highway This article is part of The D.C. Brief, TIMEs politics newsletter. Sign up here to get stories like this sent to your inbox. When Kellyanne Conway injected into the political bloodstream the phrase of art alternative facts just two days into then-President Donald Trumps tenure in the White House, much of Washington found itself undulating between disbelief and despondent. Were the very basics of verifiable truths going to be in dispute for the length of the Trump era? Now, roughly seven years later, the question seems quaintespecially on a day when the Supreme Court met to consider if Trump was even eligible to seek a third presidential nomination in eight years given the events that took place on Jan. 6, 2021, at the Capitol. This column is less about the case before the Justices on Thursdayof which they seemed firmly opposed to allowing a little-used portion of the Constitution to bar the GOP frontrunner from the ballotand more about how those in the courtroom talked about a dark day in our country that was also one of the most well-documented events in recent memory. It was, to be blunt, like watching a counterfactual history, one in which the then-President of the United States did not summon his most ardent supporters to Washington, give them a pep talk in the wake of a decided loss at the ballot, and dispatch them to the Capitol with the stated mission of cajoling Congress to ignore voters will and to substitute their own pro-Trump judgment. Frustratingly, it neatly mirrored the divergent realities in American politics that seem dictated by party allegiance more than not-that-distant memory. Rather than accept what plainly happened before our eyes, several of the Justices seemed all too willing to paint a bald attack on democracy as something far less sinister. Trumps lawyers were not alone in positing that the tumult of Jan. 6 was a riot; it was not an insurrection. The events were shameful, criminal, violentall of those thingsbut it did not qualify as insurrection. Justice Samuel Alito qualified in one question that it was allegedly an insurrection. Chief Justice John Roberts, tasked with the unenviable goal of guiding his colleagues to a decision that spares the Court from looking like a partisan operation, seemed to nod to the challenge ahead in his question. Insurrection is a broad, broad term, he said. And if there's some debate about it, I suppose that will go into the decision and then eventually we would be deciding whether it was an insurrection when one President did something as opposed to when somebody else did something else? At another point, Roberts branded the petition to disqualify Trump based on provisions of the 14th Amendment as ahistorical. The question before the Court started in Colorado, where its top court ruled on Dec. 19 that Trump was ineligible to compete in that states March 5 GOP primary on the ground that he participated in an insurrection. Under the provisions put in place after the Civil War to keep Confederates from continuing their battle against the abolitionist United States, those who rose up against American democracy were seen as unsuited for public office. Colorados judges agreed that the prohibition extended to Trump given his role in rallying a mob and instructing them to head to Capitol Hill on the day Congress was set to complete the typically pro-forma certification of the election results from weeks prior. The Court is expected to expedite its ruling in the case to decide Trumps fate in Coloradoand likely beyond it, given Maine has taken a similar reading of the 14th Amendment. The Justices seemed plenty skeptical of the Colorado case with even liberal-leaning members of the nine-person panel suggesting that the contemporary application of the Civil War provisions were as novel as they were unreasonably disruptive. But the contours of the conversation inside the Supreme Courts chamber echoed the one that has unfolded for almost four years. Despite more than 1,200 people charged with crimes around the Jan. 6 attack and almost 600 guilty pleas entered, there remains a deeply heldand wrongbelief that what happened on Jan. 6 was somehow business as usual. Others incorrectly assert that the gathering at the Capitol was peaceful, or that the violent rioters were somehow organized by federal officials. The persistentand, it needs to be said again, falsestoryline that this was a false flag to discredit Trump shows no sign of relenting. One corner of the conservative-media echo chamber is more than eager to keep this bunk buzz going. A democracy doesnt function well when its participants cant even agree to see what is evident for all to see. For his part, Trumps lawyer seemed more ready to spar on the legal theory than the facts of Jan. 6. Responding to questioning, Jonathan Mitchell argued that even an admitted insurrectionist had a right to the ballot absent action from Congress, not courts. Later, Mitchell did a bit of clean-up in response to a question from Roberts: We never accepted or conceded in our opening brief that this was an insurrection. It may have failed, but the attempts to override the results of a legitimate election are now being lightly dismissed as foolhardy enthusiasm from the MAGA world. The fact that, more than three years later, there are still corners of this countryand well-educated and -connected ones at thatwilling to excuse Trumpist tendencies of excess linked to Jan. 6 says a whole lot about the current state of our nation and the election were about to undertake. Its why writing off President Joe Bidens sluggish poll numbers would be a mistake for Democrats, to ignore the disgust members of both parties harbor for Washington as an institution, and why Trumps path back to power might be far easier than his critics would like to believe. The Court seems ready to put him back on the ballot in Colorado, but 2016 proved that Trump could win the White House without Colorado. The 2024 electionwith or without the Courts helpcould test that thesis again. Make sense of what matters in Washington. Sign up for the D.C. Brief newsletter. Write to Philip Elliott at philip.elliott@time.com. Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick (R) pushed a conspiracy theory Friday that a Democratic deep state run by former President Obama is seeking to prevent President Biden from being the Democratic presidential nominee this fall. Ive said for over a year many times that Joe Biden would not be on the ticket and Michelle Obama would be the likely nominee, Patrick posted on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. Its clear the Democrat deep state run by Barack Obama knew they had to take him down to give them a chance in November. Patrick alluded to the controversy Thursday when a special counsel who had previously been appointed to a position by former President Trump issued a report that said no criminal charges would be brought against Biden for his handling of classified documents outside a secure setting. The report made numerous negative references to Bidens age and memory, which were seized upon by Republicans. Biden then fiercely rebuked the report and took questions at a Thursday night news conference where he at one point confused Egypts president as the president of Mexico. Some Democrats have acknowledged problems with the presser. While many Democrats have pointed fingers at the special counsel and suggested the report included cheap political shorts, Patrick saw a broad conspiracy involving the deep state and the Obama family. He argued the report itself was a setup. They set him up in the report calling him a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory,' he wrote. They could have protected him by putting him in the Oval Office to read a statement with no press questions. Instead, they sent him out and fed him to a press where he was a total embarrassment. He doesnt have a memory and Kamala doesnt have a brain. Now they have a real problem. Theories that former first lady Michelle Obama could be a sleeper Democratic presidential candidate have filled the airwaves for years. She is one of the most famous and well-liked political figures in the country but has indicated less-than-no-interest in running for office. Karl Rove, the former strategist to President George W. Bush, just this week described the idea that Michelle Obama could run as a Democratic candidate for president as pure lunacy, though he did suggest it was possible Biden could bow out because of concerns about his age. Roves remarks came before the release of special counsel Robert Hurs report. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces warned Thursday there's been a "spike" in ISIS activity in Syria recently, as ISIS tries to take advantage of tensions in the Middle East. Gen. Mazloum Abdi Kobane, the commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces, told reporters in a Zoom briefing Thursday that the escalation of attacks on U.S. bases in Iraq and Syria by Iranian-backed forces since October has impeded their efforts to prevent ISIS from resurging. "We're seeing that ISIS is taking the benefit from all these attacks, and we have seen a spike in movements of ISIS," he told reporters through a translator. The SDF and the U.S. work together in Syria in the global coalition to defeat ISIS. The U.S. has about 900 troops in Syria, 2,500 in Iraq, and a few hundred in Jordan as a part of that mission. Those forces have been attacked at least 168 times by Iranian-backed groups since Oct. 17. Kobane said that if U.S. forces withdraw, there would be "chaos" and a gap that many actors would want to exploit. He said he has been reassured by U.S. officials that the U.S. is not planning on withdrawing from Syria anytime soon. At the same time, Iraq has begun discussions with the U.S. about an eventual transition away from the coalition mission to a bilateral security mission, which could include a reduction in the number of U.S. troops in Iraq. The talks have been expected since August but come as the Iraqi government has expressed concern over retaliatory airstrikes the U.S. has launched inside of Iraq. Gen. Kobane told reporters Thursday that he's concerned that the U.S. presence in Iraq is linked to the presence in Syria and that a withdrawal from Iraq would mean a withdrawal from Syria that would make the SDF more vulnerable. Pharma exec won't commit to selling life-saving drug in U.S. for lower price offered in Canada Eye Opener: 5 Marines found dead after helicopter crash in California Missing Marines found dead The pair met in person just five days before their Grammys performance, according to a new 'Rolling Stone' feature John Shearer/Getty Tracy Chapman and Luke Combs perform onstage during the Grammys in Los Angeles on Feb. 4, 2024 Securing Tracy Chapman and Luke Combs' performance at the Grammy Awards on Sunday was "a long process," Grammys executive producer Raj Kapoor told Rolling Stone. In a new feature detailing how the pair's full-circle "Fast Car" team-up came to be, multiple key players opened up to the outlet about how they connected to make one of the night's biggest moments come together. As the outlet notes, Kapoor and Grammys executive producer Patrick Menton first came up with the idea of a "Fast Car" duet in May 2023 and went through Combs publicist Carla Sacks of Sacks & Co. to get in touch with SVP at Nonesuch Records (and friend of Chapman) Matthew Rankin. We knew we were working towards something rare and special, Rankin said, but the performance was everything we hoped it would be and more, and the subsequent response has been incredible, exceeding our expectations in so many ways. Related: Tracy Chapmans Fast Car Hits No. 1 on iTunes After Duet with Luke Combs at 2024 Grammys As for piecing it together, Sacks called it "pure magic" that she knew how to reach Chapman, 59, who lives largely under the radar in San Francisco. I knew the doorbell to ring. And quite frankly, I think that made it very helpful to not be reaching out as a stranger and to be able to open the line of communication. When reaching Chapman last year with the performance pitch, Grammy producers asked Rankin to "let her think about this creatively and what it could be. And when youre ready, come back to us," Menton recalled saying. Kapoor added to Rolling Stone that getting an eventual nod of approval from Chapman in January "felt like a long yes." It never felt like a no or a maybe," he added. "They said, We agree; lets take our time and walk through this. And lets make sure this is what we all want it to be. As Rolling Stone reports, Rankin said speaking with Chapman about the performance helped them realize it was "a moment of confluence, coming 35 years to the month since Tracy first performed Fast Car at the Grammys, and following a year of such success for Luke with her song." Combs longtime manager, Chris Kappy, told the outlet that the 33-year-old country star whose cover of "Fast Car" topped the country charts and reached a peak of No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in June 2023 insisted Chapman had full creative control of the performance and wanted her to have "every opportunity to shine." It was ultimately Chapman's idea to collaborate with several longtime friends for the song, including original "Fast Car" recording musicians, drummer Denny Fongheiser and bassist Larry Klein. They were also joined by band members Larry Campbell on fiddle and guitarist Joe Gore, Rankin told Rolling Stone. Combs' bandmate Kurt Ozan was brought on to play pedal steel. The one thing that was really mentioned was that there was enough time to rehearse, for both artists to come together and have enough time to explore, to play through it, Kapoor told the outlet. Theres a lot of different things on our show sets, production, visuals but ultimately, this performance was about the music and the song. Related: Luke Combs, Justin Bieber and Other Musicians Who Have Covered Tracy Chapman's 'Fast Car' Kevin Mazur/Getty Tracy Chapman and Luke Combs perform onstage during the Grammys in Los Angeles on Feb. 4, 2024 The two musicians finally met for the first time in person at SIR studio in Los Angeles on Jan. 31, three months after they initially touched base on the phone. Rankin called it "a significant and emotional moment," given that it was their first time meeting and Chapman's first time seeing some of her bandmates in years. As the outlet noted, her last live performance performance for television was during a 2015 episode of The Late Show With David Letterman. The band rehearsed for two hours on Wednesday and four on Thursday, with Kappy noting that the pair "just kept running through it and running through it." All of this was done to honor the amazing woman, songwriter and artist that she is, Kappy said, adding that Combs was happy to take on the original folk version of the song and sing in a lower key. The entire opportunity for us to even be on a stage with Tracy Chapman is what this was all about. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Rankin told Rolling Stone that "the roar from the audience as Tracy and Luke were revealed onstage proved how powerful this moment was, as did the tears in the eyes of countless people around us." Chairman and CEO of Sony Music Nashville Randy Goodman added that the team-up "was breathtaking and radiated pure happiness from both artists," calling it "a full-circle moment for Luke and the perfect culmination to an amazing story." For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. LAS VEGAS Former President Donald Trump easily won the Nevada caucuses on Thursday, NBC News projects, the fourth contest he has captured on his march to the GOP nomination. It was a glide path for Trump, who faced no major competition in the caucuses after most of his opponents dropped out of the race and the last one standing, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, chose to compete in Nevadas state-sponsored primary Tuesday. In an embarrassing defeat, Haley, the former governor of South Carolina, lost decisively to none of these candidates, by at least 30 points, according to the most recent vote tally. Trump gloated about the defeat on his Truth Social platform, writing: A bad night for Nikki Haley. Losing by almost 30 points in Nevada to 'None of These Candidates.' Watch, shell soon claim Victory! Trumps victory Thursday, in which he claimed all 26 of Nevada's GOP delegates, further cements his dominance among Republicans, even as Haley pledges shell stay in the race for the Feb. 24 South Carolina primary and possibly beyond. Haley had been making the rounds in California, which votes on Super Tuesday, March 5, during Nevadas two contests. Trump, however, had held recent rallies in Las Vegas, where he told Republicans dont waste your time on the state-run primary. It doesnt mean anything, he said, encouraging them instead to take part in the caucuses. Trump was expected to attend a caucus watch party here after the contest concluded. This was the first time in years that Nevada held primaries instead of caucuses, after the Democratic-led Legislature in 2021 changed the law. The state Republican Party, though, decided to break off on its own and hold a caucus in addition to the primary but dictated that candidates could compete in only one or the other. Delegates are awarded only in the caucuses. Haley had said she wouldnt take part in the caucuses because, she contended, they were rigged for Trump by GOP insiders who had pledged their allegiance to him. Six members of the Nevada Republican Party have been indicted on allegations that they acted as false electors for Trump in the 2020 race. They include party Chair Michael McDonald and Vice Chair Jim DeGraffenreid, who also had their cellphones seized and testified before a grand jury in the federal investigation into Trumps attempting to overturn the 2020 election. Nevada could also play a pivotal role in the general election, as evidenced by President Joe Bidens presence in the state in the days preceding Tuesdays primary. Biden easily won the state's Democratic primary with nearly 90% of the vote. The next stop for the GOP primaries is Haleys home state of South Carolina, where she is trailing Trump significantly, according to recent polling. As Donald Trump works on locking up the Republican presidential nomination, hes setting his sights on remaking the Republican National Committee in his own image. But its a task that is likely to come with some political peril, and it may not happen without a fight. Trump has said in recent days that hes looking for change at the RNC, which could mean Ronna McDaniels stepping aside as chairwoman. The Trump campaign has openly signaled that if she does, its preferred pick for a successor is North Carolina GOP Chairman Michael Whatley, a veteran operative with deep ties to the partys establishment who is currently the RNCs general counsel. Its those establishment ties that could prove to be a complicating factor. Whatleys supporters describe him as a workhorse who is the perfect fit to take over the national party. He has significant experience within the RNC, and he helped rebuild his own embattled state party after he took over from a chairman facing a bribery scandal. Whatley also supported Trumps unfounded claims that the 2020 election was riddled with fraud which has helped endear him to the former president. But he is also very much seen as part of a party establishment that some conservatives would like to tear down. That is highlighted most notably by the fact that he offered a voice of support to McDaniel during her contested re-election bid last year. Speaking with NBC News in December 2022, Whatley said his decision to back her was not a close call, because she was responsive to the needs of RNC members and his own state party. Every single time I called her, the answer was yes, he said. Im not surprised that folks coalesced behind her or around her as quickly as they did. Though Trump hand-picked McDaniel to lead the party in 2016, after four terms she has become a political bogeyman to a vocal group of conservatives who blame her for three consecutive election cycles that have been rough for Republicans. Scrutiny of McDaniels leadership at the RNC increased among party activists after the 2022 midterms, focused on her handling of party finances and grassroots efforts. The partys latest disclosure with the Federal Election Commission showed it was facing a cash crunch, with less than half as much money in the bank as the Democratic National Committee reported at the end of 2023. Calls for change at the RNC ramped up again ahead of the partys winter meetings in Las Vegas last week. Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist and co-founder of the right-wing group Turning Point USA, who led the charge to oust McDaniel last year, held a nearby conference dubbed the Restoring National Confidence summit a clear shot at the party. A Turning Point spokesperson declined to comment on what the group thinks of the potential for Whatley to be the next RNC chair. Anyone associated with Ronna will be impossible to sell to the grassroots, said former Trump adviser Steve Bannon, an influential voice among anti-establishment conservatives. The RNC needs a purge now, so it can be rebuilt to help President Trump. Michael Whatley during a campaign event for Donald Trump in Indianola, Iowa (Al Drago / Bloomberg via Getty Images file ) Thats the political needle Trump needs to thread: If McDaniel resigns, the next chair has to be able to both raise enough money to win elections and be palatable to the anti-establishment MAGA base. I really think they have it all wrong, Ed Broyhill, a North Carolina GOP donor who was Trumps 2020 finance chairman in the state, said of that group of detractors. He [Whatley] has no philosophical or political conflicts with those folks, Broyhill said. They are on the same page there. He was the sort of gentleman who saw a weakness in the national agenda, and thats why he ran for co-chair. He does not want to tear the house down. He wants to go inside and help make changes. Broyhill was referring to Whatleys 2023 failed bid for RNC co-chair against South Carolina GOP Chair Drew McKissick, who NBC News reported Wednesday night is also running for chair if McDaniel steps down. Whatley lost that race even though he had Trumps endorsement. Former Florida Republican Party Chairman Joe Gruters, a longtime Trump supporter whose bid to become an RNC committeeman Trump has endorsed, was also mentioned by The Miami Herald on Thursday as a potential replacement. Trump has not publicly chimed in on his preferred pick, but a senior Trump adviser told NBC News that he likes Whatley as a potential chair. A Republican member of Congress who spoke with Trump also said Trump indicated he would like Whatley to succeed McDaniel. Jason Miller, a senior Trump campaign adviser, posted a Fox News article Wednesday with a headline that quoted sources saying Trump recommends Whatley to replace McDaniel. Steve Scheffler, an RNC committeeman from Iowa, said: I will support whoever President Trump desires to be the next RNC chair. Having said that, Whatley is a very talented political operative who would be an excellent choice if that is who Trump wants. Trumps campaign declined to comment for this article, and Whatley and McKissick did not reply to requests for comment. Not only has McKissick already beaten Whatley in a head-to-head leadership contest; he maintains a block of support within the RNC and with others in the party who said they would back him if McDaniel resigns. If McDaniel resigns, he certainly wants to be the next chair, McKissick ally Robin Armstrong, an RNC committeeman from Texas, told NBC News on Wednesday night. He is the chair of the South Carolina party. Hes currently the co-chair [of the RNC]. I think itd naturally be the next thing for him to step up as chair of the RNC. Oscar Brock, an RNC committeeman from Tennessee, said McKissick is the better choice. Michael would not be my first choice, Brock said. I would imagine that hed be Ronnas pick. I simply think Drew McKissick is more charismatic and is well-liked by the members. Alex Stroman, a former South Carolina GOP executive director, said that McKissick has gotten Trumps endorsement in the past and that as co-chair he has a valuable commodity in RNC circles: seniority. The 168 members of the RNC place a lot of value in not only elevating those who build winning state parties, but those who spend time building relationships with the committee Drew McKissick has done both, he said. But highlighting the tension points that may emerge in a competitive race, Broyhill, the North Carolina GOP donor, said few have more experience rebuilding political parties than Whatley. He took over as North Carolina chairman in 2019 as his predecessor, former Rep. Robin Hayes, was facing allegations he bribed state insurance officials. Hayes eventually pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI; Trump pardoned him in 2021. Within four years, we became the dominant force in the General Assembly, had veto-proof majorities and got the majority on the North Carolina Supreme Court, Broyhill said of Whatleys quickly rebuilding the North Carolina GOP. For each of those activities, he had a fundraising entity for those specific efforts. Hes organized and can raise money. North Carolina GOP operative Michael DeSantis said, Hes a workhorse. He said Whatley, a longtime GOP activist who got his start working for arch-conservative Jesse Helms, would show up at every single event in the state over the years while still working a day job in Washington, D.C. DeSantis said Whatley is known in the state as someone who can navigate grassroots priorities while still speaking to the party establishment. I think thats why Trump likes him, he said. Because Trumps kind of like that, where his message goes to the base and he can talk to the donors, as well. Art Pope, a longtime conservative North Carolina donor, also said he has seen Whatley implement an election security plan, which has become a focus for Trump after he made the unfounded claims that the 2020 election was stolen. Michael made it a priority to have attorneys on call or present in every county board of elections, Pope said, adding, He emphasized a good presence to handle any legal challenges, any motion to keep polls open if there were any questions about a precinct being closed and not accessible. There is, however, another layer of complication preventing a potential smooth transition of power at the RNC: McDaniel herself. The sharks have been circling ever since Trump signaled last weekend that changes would be coming to the national party, but so far McDaniel has said that no decision about her stepping down has been made and that the plan was always for a final decision to be made after the Feb. 24 South Carolina primary. I am still hard at work as RNC Chairwoman and building a machine that will elect Republicans up and down the ballot in November, she wrote in an email to members Wednesday afternoon first reported by NBC News. Even McDaniels strongest allies in the party, though, acknowledge a change seems imminent. You have to blame someone. And it cant be wrong candidate. It cant be Trumps influence, said an RNC member who supported McDaniels re-election. It is possible no change is made, but the handwriting is on the wall. The person, who spoke with McDaniel after she met with Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida this week, said she and Trump do remain on good terms. Ronna and Trump are friends and have worked together for a long time, so this is actually a low-drama situation, especially if Whatley gets the nod, the person said. He is widely respected. Hes an institutional guy and also a longtime part of the Trump team. There are some Trump supporters who think that even if McDaniel could survive in some capacity, she would have to deal with another layer of Trump-appointed leadership, most likely led by Chris LaCivita, a top Trump adviser. Under that scenario, LaCivita would hold much of the official power over national party operations. Bill Palatucci, an RNC committeeman from New Jersey, said Whatley is a great guy, but he said the more important factor for how the RNC is led depends on what staff the Trump campaign sends over to the committee. Its routine for the presumptive nominee to take control of the committee, and so no one will have issue with turning over the operational control to the campaign, said Palatucci, who is often critical of Trump. Even me. No matter the outcome, if a leadership vacuum emerges at the top of the party, Whatley is Trumps clear choice, Trumps advisers and supporters have not so quietly, even if not yet publicly, signaled. The best-case scenario is that Michael Whatley is able to clear the field and there is no race, said a source familiar with the process. Its a coronation. Rep. Rashida Tlaib at a pro-ceasefire press conference outside the Capitol on November 13, 2023. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images Rep. Tlaib's sister is leading a campaign to get voters to choose "uncommitted" over Biden in MI. It's an effort to get Biden to back a cease-fire in Israel's war in Gaza. And it's yet another sign that age and memory aren't the only political issues Biden faces. As President Joe Biden faces fresh questions related to his age and memory, another point of pressure is brewing in the battleground state of Michigan. A group of activists dubbed Listen to Michigan are urging Democrats in the state to withhold their support for Biden and mark uncommitted on their ballots in the upcoming February 27 primary to demonstrate their support for a cease-fire in Gaza and their unwillingness to vote for him until he changes course on Israel. As Michigan Democrats, we cannot support [Bidens] financial backing of actions in Gaza that conflict with our own core values of peace and humanity, said Layla Elabed, a Dearborn-based activist and the groups campaign manager. Voting uncommitted is our way of demanding change, and this is going to be our vehicle to return political power back to us. Most of the activists are based in Dearborn, a city outside Detroit with more than 100,000 residents, most of whom are of Arab descent. Many residents have family members in the Palestinian territories and other Arab countries, or recently immigrated from the region. This is very emotional for me to talk about, said Abbas Alawieh, a spokesperson for the campaign who lives in nearby Detroit. During a call with reporters on Friday, Alawieh referenced his experience visiting family in Lebanon, where he was born, during the 2006 Israel-Hezbollah war. I am someone who, as a child, survived US-funded Israeli bombs, said Alawieh. I know what those feel like when they drop. I know what they smell like. I know the nightmares that they cause for decades to come after experiencing them. The campaign has some proximity to Democratic Rep. Rashida Tlaib, who represents Dearborn, is the only Palestinian American in Congress, and was recently censured by the House in part for her use of the phrase from the river to the sea a phrase that many Palestinians view as a call for freedom, but that some Jews and Israelis view as a call for the destruction of Israel. Elabed is Tlaibs younger sister, while Alawieh was once a top staffer to the Michigan congresswoman. But Tlaib herself appears to be maintaining her distance. The congresswoman is not directly involved in the Listen to Michigan effort, and a Tlaib spokesperson did not respond to questions about how the congresswoman herself would be voting in the primary. I think organizers who are involved in this campaign understand Congresswoman Tlaibs leadership as in line with this effort, said Alawieh, noting her advocacy for a cease-fire in Congress. But the campaign has the vocal backing of a variety of local elected officials, including the mayors of Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, and Hamtramck, as well as state legislators and city councilors. Today, Im joining 30+ of my elected colleagues from across SE Michigan in pledging to cast an Uncommitted vote in the upcoming presidential primary election. pic.twitter.com/ltmhihOF2A Abdullah H. Hammoud (@AHammoudMI) February 7, 2024 While Biden is still expected to cruise to victory in the Democratic primary, the campaign will provide some indication of his standing with Arab and Muslim voters, who comprise a much larger portion of the electorate than in other states. Michigan will be a crucial battleground state during the general election, and the campaign is explicitly seeking to leverage a bloc of pro-ceasefire voters to affect change in US policy. Trump only won Michigan in 2016 by about 10,000 votes. Uncommitted Michigan Democrats opposed to Bidens policy in Gaza can demonstrate that we hold his margin of victory for re-election, reads the groups website. Biden must earn our vote through a dramatic change in policy. Foreign policy officials in the Biden White House traveled to Michigan on Thursday to meet with Arab-American leaders, but Alawieh, who met with those officials, said he came away disappointed. Senior Biden officials were talking about the mistakes as more of a messaging problem, said Alawieh. But we're not looking for language shifts. We're not looking for sympathy from this administration. We're looking for action from President Biden that saves lives. There wasn't any indication in the meeting that they were committed to action that stops the genocide sooner rather than later, said Alawieh. Since the October 7 Hamas attacks, the resulting Israeli offensive has killed more than 27,000 Palestinians in Gaza. In a Thursday night press conference to respond to Special Counsel Robert Hurs report and address questions about his age, Biden also said that he believe Israels war had become over the top and that he had been pushing for a sustained pause in the fighting. The United States provides $3.8 billion in military assistance to Israel every year, and the Senate is currently considering a foreign aid bill that would provide an additional $14 billion in aid to Israel, along with funds to support humanitarian relief in Gaza. The House has voted on two bills to provide aid solely to Israel in recent months, but Democrats have blocked them from reaching Bidens desk, citing both concerns with the war in Gaza and a desire to pair Israel and Ukraine aid together. Read the original article on Business Insider The battle on Long Island to fill the seat left vacant by disgraced Rep. George Santos' expulsion involves millions of dollars, the attention of national groups and the return of notable political players -- a reflection of how this off-cycle special election isn't passing by with little fanfare. Instead, the race has come to be seen by some Democrats as a high-stakes litmus test of their electability in the very areas where they'll need to win in November if they want to retake Congress. Yet as Democrats work to flip back New York's 3rd Congressional District and Republicans work to move past Santos' scandal, the outcome on Tuesday is far from certain. In this race -- where the local parties hand-picked candidates without any primary, because it's a special election -- former Rep. Tom Suozzi, who represented a version of the same district for three terms, faces Republican Mazi Melesa Pilip, an Ethiopian-born former Israeli army soldier and current county legislator. A poll released Thursday from Newsday and Siena College showed the candidates effectively even: 48% of likely voters in the district said they'd vote for Suozzi, while 44% indicated they'd go for Pilip -- a result within the poll's margin of error. Santos' dramatic, much-covered downfall is essentially a non-factor here, rarely mentioned on the stump even as, in the last few weeks, Democrats looked to tie him more directly to Pilip. He has told CNN he doesn't plan to vote. Instead, candidates, their allies and observers point to a web of issues that they say are shaping the race and how the candidates pitch themselves -- on the border and public safety, on Israel, on abortion and more. Those are some of the same issues that could also shape voters across the country come November, experts said. "The stakes are quite high ... it is a divided electorate and it will likely be very close," Halie Soifer, the CEO of the Jewish Democratic Council of America, which is supporting Suozzi's bid, told ABC News. PHOTO: In this Dec. 1, 2023, file photo, Rep. George Santos walks from his office to the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. (Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images, FILE) 'A warning sign for Democrats'? Democrats earn a boon if Suozzi wins the election: Not only would that add to the party's list of local wins, despite President Joe Biden's unpopularity, it would weaken Republicans' razor-thin hold on the House, where they currently have only a four-vote majority, giving them persistent problems in passing legislation. Soifer said it's not just about Suozzi retaking his old seat, which Democrats lost in 2022. "To increase Democrats' House numbers by one in advance of November ... and it is also a bellwether for the 2024 election -- if we can flip this seat, it bodes well for Democrats in November," she said. Suozzi, for his part, feels this -- and knows that he's up against a constituency that feels like it's lurched back to the right. In an interview with ABC News, he conceded that a loss come election night would "of course" be a bad omen for his party's 2024 prospects. He's attempting to blunt Republican organizational inroads by growing his grassroots support and underscoring his moderate record -- even to a fault. "I think my whole campaign is a warning sign for Democrats," he insisted. "I've always been somebody who has been battling with my own party. I've always been a centrist ... and they asked me to run. Why? Because they know my message is what we need to be talking about." "Crime and immigration and taxes is not a Republican message. It's an American message," Suozzi said. "And Democrats as well as Republicans need to be addressing these issues." He said that if he wins, he has a blunt message for his colleagues in Washington, who faced unexpected defeats in historically Democratic areas in California and New York in 2022, ensuring Republicans won the House. "Wake up," he said. PHOTO: Peacocks walk around signs of support for Congressional candidate Mazi Pilip outside the Middleridge Cottage, on Feb. 5, 2024, in Jericho, N.Y. (Brittainy Newman/AP) As for his chances next week, Suozzi said he has high hopes and feels "great," expecting a win in what he thinks will nonetheless be a "very close race." "People are sick and tired of the partisan finger-pointing. They're sick of the far left and they're sick of the far right, they want people who are willing to work across party lines to actually get stuff done," he said, adding, "That's what I've always been about. And people know that." Veteran New York Democratic strategist Hank Sheinkopf is less confident. "In any other circumstance, he would have been a shoo-in," Sheinkopf said of Suozzi. "But the environment's entirely different. You're operating in an environment that doesn't help Democrats overall out in the suburbs -- the migrants, chaos, the economic conditions of the country, the cost of the pump, which has gone down -- but people don't see it that way. And they gotta blame somebody." Sheinkopf's gut feeling is that Pilip edges Suozzi out, which, if true, he thinks would be a "tremendous setback" for Democrats. Pilip, on her end, has faced criticism from some in and outside her district for being a relatively unknown county legislator with an unclear record on many issues and for running fewer campaign events in the weeks leading up to the election. She is also a registered Democrat which, despite her publicly stated politics, has raised some concerns among conservatives. Suozzi and his allies have accused Pilip of a "basement campaign," borrowing an attack line Donald Trump used on then-candidate Joe Biden during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. But speaking to ABC News on Wednesday, Pilip seemed unfazed and sounded optimistic about high early turnout, calling attention to the support she said she has been receiving on the ground. "So many people are doing so much work and the support, the energy, the love, that I'm receiving every single day it is unbelievable, empowering," she said. "It's just giving me the motivation to keep going. We're going to win." Border becomes a flashpoint One ad supporting Pilip, funded by the National Republican Congressional Committee, blares to viewers that President Biden is to blame for high numbers of illegal immigration at the southern border: "Under Biden, a record invasion at our border!" And the ad ties Suozzi to Biden, quoting Suozzi's 2021 remarks that "I support the president's agenda 100%," which he said in an interview related to taxes. Sheinkopf, the strategist, said the ad was a revealing attack both about voter concerns and where Republicans think they can gain advantage. "The ads tell you what the story is: It's migrants, it's the fear of crime that's attached to migrants," Sheinkopf said. The issue has become a particular flashpoint in New York City, which has taken in tens of thousands of asylum seekers. Suozzi has emphasized his support of heightened security at the border while also calling for bipartisan agreement on how to handle immigration. Pilip frames challenges at the border and with illegal immigration into the U.S. as a result of policies fronted by both Biden and Suozzi. "I'm running for Congress to secure the border and clean up the sanctuary cities mess that Tom Suozzi and Joe Biden have created," she said at a news conference outside of a migrant shelter in Queens on Wednesday. She has also lambasted the bipartisan package proposed in the Senate that would majorly overhaul immigration policy and tighten border restrictions while providing aid to Israel, Taiwan and Ukraine. On Wednesday, she received an endorsement from the National Border Patrol Council, a union that represents Border Patrol agents -- and that supports the Senate deal. The union's president, Brandon Judd, told reporters that Pilip "is able to build bridges" and has more latitude to reject the bill than the union. PHOTO: Congressional candidate Mazi Pilip greets attendees at her fundraiser event hosted by the Nassau County Republican Committee, on Feb. 5, 2024, in Jericho, New York. (Brittainy Newman/AP) Suozzi attacked Pilip for her take on the Senate agreement during their sole debate of the race, on Thursday, painting her as a solution-less candidate. "She has no solutions whatsoever. Just 'there's a problem, there's a problem. Oh, by the way, it's a really big problem.' That's not enough. That's not how you govern," Suozzi said at the debate, organized by News 12 Long Island. Pilip shot back and was met with immediate applause, telling Suozzi that he "created this issue." Pilip also has argued that the issue of the border could turn out a large coalition for her. "More Republicans, more independents -- even for some, some big number of Democrats -- will come out to vote for me" because of how much they care about the issue, she told ABC News. But immigration becoming a key issue also holds some risks for Republicans if they lose because it would suggest that strategy had failed, said Lawrence Levy at Hofstra University on Long Island. "The reality would be that their efforts to localize the national and international immigration issue didn't succeed and might not have the power they're hoping for in swing suburban areas around the country," Levy, the executive dean of Hofstra's National Center for Suburban Studies, told ABC News On the debate stage, Suozzi sought to pin Pilip down on abortion access, suggesting she was being intentionally ambiguous in order to win over voters. While she described herself as "pro-life," she also said she opposes a national ban and maintained that "I'm not going to force my own belief on any woman." Suozzi has been backed by abortion rights supporters. National fundraising and attention Outside groups have poured barrel loads of money into the district. Republicans spent at least $3 million on ads in the district while Democrats emptied their pockets even more -- to the tune of at least $8.9 million, according to political advertising tracker AdImpact. And a super PAC supporting Pilip has paid for a $1.5 million Suozzi attack ad to play during the Super Bowl, just two days before the election. Republican Rep. Anthony D'Esposito joined Pilip at a rally in Franklin Square on Wednesday evening, acknowledging in an interview with ABC News that Democrats have invested far more money in the race; but he cited the "ground game" of the local party -- staff volunteers knocking on doors and calling up potential voters in droves -- as reason for confidence. "I think what makes the difference is what's in this room and rooms like this all over the district," D'Esposito said. "People are invested ... we're at war, and we all are suited up and ready to fight." (Suozzi told ABC News his own ground game is "organic and very intense.") D'Esposito is familiar with the dynamics of eking out a win in a swing seat: He was elected by razor-thin margins in the 4th Congressional District's 2022 race, an area of Long Island that Biden won by double digits 2020. During Wednesday's rally, D'Esposito cast the upcoming contest as a clash between two Joes, one national and one local: "If there's anywhere in this country that we can win a special election in a district that Joe Biden won in 2020 ... it's right here in Nassau County, because we have [Nassau Republican Chair] Joe Cairo." The Jewish vote could be critical Santos' old district boasts a large Jewish community, of which Pilip is a member. The Jewish Democratic Council of America has estimated that about 11% of "the voting population" in the district are Jewish. Both the JDCA's affiliated PAC and the political action committees linked to a similar Republican group, the Republican Jewish Coalition, have spent tens of thousands of dollars in advertising and get-out-the-vote efforts on the race between Suozi and Pilip, according to leaders from each group. Combating antisemitism and supporting Israel were already top of mind for many of those Jewish voters in the district, similar to other Jewish communities around the country, even before Hamas' Oct. 7 terror attack on Israel sparked an ongoing war in the Middle East. Suozzi and Pilip have called for combating antisemitism and supporting Israel during its war with Hamas, and both support proposed stand-alone aid packages to Israel. They've shown some unity on the campaign trail: Newsday reported that they appeared together in support of a local family whose son was taken hostage from Israel on Oct. 7. But in other ways, Israel and the Hamas war have become campaign issues. PHOTO: Tom Suozzi speaks at a campaign rally on Feb. 4, 2024, in Floral Park, New York. (Ron Adar/Shutterstock) Pilip, who points to her Israeli background and family, has claimed that Suozzi is allied with Democratic members of Congress who want to reevaluate the U.S.'s support of Israel in light of the high death toll. Suozzi's supporters, in response, point to his pro-Israel voting record in Congress and his trip to Israel after Oct. 7. Sheinkopf, the veteran state Democratic strategist, warned against not paying attention to current events in Israel and Gaza when it comes to the Long Island election. "We forget that all elections are colored to some extent by events that are going on at the moment," he said. Suozzi faces further headwinds that echo the broader schism within his party. Younger and more progressive voters have split with President Joe Biden's administration over his continued support of Israel's campaign against Hamas despite tens of thousands of people being killed in Gaza. When asked by ABC News about his message to Muslim and Arab American voters who disagree with him on Israel, Suozzi pointed to his votes while in office and his support of the local Muslim community as a county legislator after Sept. 11, 2001. "While I remain unequivocally pro-Israel and support of Israel in this conflict that they're facing right now, the Muslim community knows me very, very well and knows that I will always fight on their behalf," Suozzi said. Levy, the political expert, said that Suozzi has a complex challenge ahead, keeping together the traditional Jewish Democratic voters and those who are not aligned with him on Israel. It's another bellwether for the year ahead, he said: "It's the same complexity that Democrats in a lot of places are gonna face. ... [It] could determine who wins; not just here, but in other places around the country." Why the stakes look 'quite high' in the battle to win George Santos' seat in New York originally appeared on abcnews.go.com remaining of Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 9, ARMENPRESS. Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan on February 8 in The Hague met with Paivi Kaukoranta, the President of the Assembly of States Parties to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC). Kaukoranta congratulated Armenia on joining the ICC, the foreign ministry said in a readout. Mirzoyan and Kaukoranta exchanged ideas around the ongoing and required further steps in the direction of applying the Rome Statute, the founding treaty of the ICC, highlighting close partnership with the assembly. The FM underscored Armenias priorities and expectations regarding joining the ICC, which were earlier voiced during the official ceremony dedicated to the membership of Armenia in the ICC and are in line with universal principles of democracy, the rule of law and fight against impunity. The Armenian governments representative for international legal affairs, Yeghishe Kirakosyan, also participated in the meeting and presented details about the steps for harmonizing the Armenian legislation with the Rome Statute. Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site. 0108263 License for publishing multimedia online Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349 YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 9, ARMENPRESS. Swiss authorities said a man armed with an axe and a knife held 15 hostages on a train for almost four hours, until police stormed the train and fatally wounded him late on Thursday, Reuters reports. The incident occurred in the town of Essert-sous-Champvent on the train line connecting Baulmes and Yverdon-les-Bains in the Swiss canton of Vaud near the French border. "The hostages were all released unharmed," police in the Vaud canton said in a statement on Friday. "The hostage taker was fatally wounded during the intervention." Police did not provide any details regarding the possible motives of the man, who police said was a 32-year-old Iranian asylum seeker. Jean-Christophe Sauterel, police spokesperson for the Vaud canton, said there was no indication that the hostage taking was a terrorist incident. YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 9, ARMENPRESS. Human Rights Defender of Armenia Anahit Manasyan on February 8 in Geneva, Switzerland met with the UNICEF Deputy Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia Octavian Bivol. UNICEF Representative in Armenia Christine Weigand also participated in the meeting. The discussion focused on the projects implemented in cooperation between UNICEF and the Human Rights Defender's Office, the existing problems in the field of protection of children's rights and ongoing work to resolve them. Other possible directions of cooperation were also outlined, Manasyan's office said in a readout. Cohesity has snapped up Veritas' data protection business, creating a US$7 billion data protection and management entity. Sanjay Poonen will lead the combined organisation as CEO and president while Veritas CEO Greg Hughes will serve as a board member and strategic advisor to Poonen after the close of the transaction. The combined company will bring together hundreds of exabytes of protected data, a global go-to-market footprint, high penetration in the enterprise and a strong partner ecosystem across all segments of cloud service providers, security players, value-added resellers (VAR), system integrators and hardware original equipment manufacturers (OEM). Together, the companies will target a total addressable market (TAM) of over US$30 billion. This figure includes the data replication and protection software market, estimated to be US$12.2 billion in 2024 by IDC. "This deal will combine Cohesitys speed and innovation with Veritas' global presence and installed base" Poonen said. "We will lead the next era of AI-powered data security and management by bringing together the best of both product portfolios Cohesity's scale-out architecture ideally suited for modern workloads and strong generative AI [artificial intelligence] and security capabilities and Veritas broad workload support and significant global footprint, particularly in the Global 500 and large public sector agencies." "This combination will be a win-win for our collective 10,000 customers and 3,000 partners and I can't wait to work with the Veritas team to bring our vision to life." The combined company will continue to invest in and advance the roadmap and strategy of all Cohesity products and services, as well as Veritas NetBackup, NetBackup appliances and Alta data protection offerings, while working towards the delivery of an integrated solution combining the best technologies across the two companies. Hughes added that bringing Veritas' differentiated cloud-native architecture to Cohesity's innovation engine will ideally position the organisation's offerings to customers. Poonen explained existing products will continue to be supported for many years while leveraging joint technologies to provide the most innovative future roadmap. "We are deeply committed to both Cohesity and Veritas customers, partners and employees as we accelerate customer-driven innovation as one company," he said. The remaining assets of Veritas businesses will form a separate company, "DataCo", featuring Veritas InfoScale, data compliance and backup exec businesses. This will function autonomously, enhancing agility and adaptability, enabling the businesses to implement a sharply focused, customer-centric approach. Each entity will have dedicated research and development efforts, aiming to deliver specialised solutions tailored precisely to their respective markets. DataCo will be led by CEO Lawrence Wong, currently SVP of strategy and products at Veritas. On a pro forma basis for the fiscal year ending July 2023, the combined Cohesity and Veritas entity had revenues of over US$1.6 billion, annual recurring revenue (ARR) of US$1.3 billion and a 27 per cent adjusted cash earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) margin. The transaction is expected to close by the end of 2024, subject to regulatory approval and other customary closing conditions. Cohesity will finance the transaction through a combination of equity and debt. The combined company will receive support from current marquee investors, including Softbank Vision Fund, Sequoia Capital, Wing Venture Capital, Premji Invest and others. Existing Veritas shareholders, including majority owner Carlyle, will become Cohesity shareholders upon the closing of the transaction. The move to confer the Bharat Ratna to Narasimha Rao was seen as a subtle message to the Gandhis New Delhi: Former Prime Ministers P.V. Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh and agriculture scientist M.S. Swaminathan will be honoured with the Bharat Ratna, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced Friday. The decision to award the Bharat Ratna to P.V. Narasimha Rao and Charan Singh and to the founder of Indias Green Revolution has taken the number of recipients of the nations highest civilian award to 53, five of them given in 2024, the maximum in a year so far. Till now, the maximum Bharat Ratnas were awarded in 1999 when four recipients were given the award. The move to confer the Bharat Ratna to Narasimha Rao was seen as a subtle message to the Gandhis. Narasimha Rao was always viewed as the Achilles heels for the Congress led by the Gandhis. The relationship between Mrs Sonia Gandhi and Narasimha Rao during his tenure as Prime Minister had always been strained. The Congress not only shunned Rao when he demitted office in 1996, but after his death in 2004 his body was not even allowed inside the AICC headquarters at 24 Akbar Road. It was also stated that over the years, the Congress high command only acknowledged Dr Manmohan Singhs role in the 1990s economic liberalisation even though he was the finance minister in the government led by Narasimha Rao. Not taking the bait, Mrs Sonia Gandhi on Friday welcomed the decision. Asked for her reaction to the highest civilian award being conferred on Narasimha Rao, she said: I welcome it. Why not? The former Prime Minister had also come under fire after the demolition of the Babri Masjid during his tenure as PM. The other sore point was the JMM bribery scandal to secure his minority government in 1993. Some political observers said the decision to honour Narasimha Rao comes days after the inauguration of the Ram Mandir. Taking to X, the Prime Minister tweeted: Narasimha Rao steered India through critical transformations and also enriched its cultural and intellectual heritage, Mr Modi said. Rao's visionary leadership, Mr Modi said, was instrumental in making India economically advanced and laid a solid foundation for its prosperity and growth. He went on to state: Narasimha Rao Garus tenure as Prime Minister was marked by significant measures that opened India to global markets, fostering a new era of economic development. Mr Modi added: Rao's contributions to India's foreign policy, language and education sectors underscore his multifaceted legacy as a leader who not only steered India through critical transformations but also enriched its cultural and intellectual heritage. The PM said that the Bharat Ratna to Charan Singh was dedicated to his incomparable contribution to the country. It is our governments fortune that Singh is being honoured with the Bharat Ratna and it is dedicated to his incomparable contributions to the country. Charan Singh served as the fifth Prime Minister of India between July and August in 1979. Minutes after the Prime Ministers post, the BJPs political rival, Rashtriya Lok Dal leader and grandson of Charan Singh Jayant Chaudhary posted on the social media: Dil Jeet Liya (Won my heart). Though the RLD still officially remains a part of the INDIA bloc, there are rumours of ongoing covert negotiations between the party and the BJP. The RLD, which has considerable support among Jats and farmers in western UP, could possibly switch sides to latch on to the saffron bandwagon. Speculation is rife that the RLD-BJP deal could be announced shortly. The RLD could be given Baghpat, Bijnor and five other Lok Sabha berths in UP. Other parts of the deal could include a Rajya Sabha membership for Mr Chaudharys wife and two berths in the Narendra Modi Cabinet, if the NDA returned to power. Only last month the RLD had confirmed its seat-sharing deal with the Samajwadi Party. The RLD was given seven Lok Sabha seats. Reacting to conferring the Bharat Ratna on Charan Singh, SP leader Akhilesh Yadav said he was very happy, and that the SP had also demanded the Bharat Ratna for Charan Singh. Asked about the rumours on a possible deal between the BJP and the RLD, Mr Yadav remarked he was getting to know everything through media reports. On conferring the Bharat Ratna on M.S. Swaminathan, known as the father of the Green Revolution, the PM said: Swaminathan made monumental contributions to the country in agriculture and farmers welfare. Mr Modi went on to state that Dr Swaminathan played a pivotal role in helping India to achieve self-reliance in agriculture and made outstanding efforts in modernising it. In his words: "I am just a professional writer, which means I don't do blogs and try and get money for whatever I write." Gurvinder Singh's 'Trolley Times' artfully captures the essence of the Indian farmers' protest, offering a unique historical record. O Bachchoo the poets are enchanted With the song of the nightingale You always took it for granted That your musical assumptions fail To detect in these avian twitters Any patterns of melody These sounds of our blue skys litters Emanating from tree to tree From Bundgobi Desserts, by Bachchoo Punjabi farmers call the trailer fixed behind a tractor a trolley. Thus spake filmmaker Gurvinder Singh, addressing one of the many audiences for his documentary film Trolley Times on tour in Britain. The documentary records the mass movement of farmers protesting against the Indian governments three laws which they claimed would impoverish some and force others into penury. Its called TROLLEY TIMES, the name of the news sheet that the farmers produced during their mass movement two to three years ago. Gurvinder tells his audiences that he is a feature filmmaker (he has won several international awards for these) but felt impelled by the farmers protest to record it. Trolley Times is not a news report on the nationwide strike, concentrating on the mainly Sikh gathering of farmers and their supporters from Punjab and Haryana who gathered at the gates of Delhi and organised a peaceful march and tractor procession through the Indian capital. Neither is it a balanced BBC documentary. In the week of Trolley Times tour of Britain, the BBC transmitted the final episode of a three-part documentary on the British miners strike in 1984. Apart from the actual footage of the striking miners and the police assault on them, it also featured reminiscent interviews with miners who had been on that strike, others who had opposed it and even the policemen who had suppressed it. There was footage of Margaret Thatcher, the then Prime Minister whose policies of closing mines caused the strike, and some interviews with surviving advisers who had worked to smash it. Gurvinder calls Trolley Times a documentary and I suppose, gentle reader, that any observational piece, which relentlessly records the gathered thousands, the encampment for months outside Delhi, the arguments, speeches, contentions straight-to-camera of the strikers and their relatives, of hundreds of women in the encampment and in the villages from which the strikers came, can claim to be such. But this is not in any sense a straightforward observational documentary, though it observes diligently. Neither is it an investigative documentary which examines exhaustively the issues involved. It is an edifice of idiosyncratic art -- its subject? -- a record of what happened and with and to whom. And yes, it forges a narrative. After an exhaustive record of all that I have said above that it contains, we get to a plot. Several youths returning on the tractors from the Delhi protest lose their way. They encounter the police and ask them for directions home. The police offer their advice and, climbing onto the tractors as guides, lead them to a police station and arrest the lot. They transfer them from one police station to another, charge them with all forms of affray and incarcerate them finally in Delhis Tihar Jail. Gurvinders camera moves to Mogo in Punjab, the village from which these youths come. The bewildered, infuriated and despairing reactions of their relatives and the entire village, who treat the unjustly imprisoned youth as their own, are meticulously recorded. And yes, the film concludes with the triumphant reception the village prepares for the youths on their release. Decorated tractors, festive clothing, a throng of every man, woman and child in the village, garlands and saffron scarves greet the youths. See the conquering heroes come, sound the trumpets, beat the drum? Trolley Times was first exhibited at the Mumbai documentary film festival. While other political films were reviewed in the national press, this one was not. Having seen on screen the evidence of an entire community of agriculturalists who succeeded through protest in the suspension, if not defeat, of the legalised intentions of the present government, I wonder why no report or review of its content was featured. Any ideas? Trolley Times was screened in Birmingham last week at the headquarters of the citys Indian Workers Association. It met with a hostile reaction from the audience of mostly Maoists and Stalinists who expected a tactical activist piece and were instead witnesses to an idiosyncratic, artistic, historical record. The audience at London Universitys School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) were much more absorbedly attentive. They asked perceptive questions about whether the film would have an impact on the coming Indian general election. Gurvinder Singh quoted one of his cinematic heroes, Ritwik Ghatak, who said films dont change the world -- politics do. In recent weeks, the UKs ITV Channel broadcast a documentary outlining the thirty-year-old scandal in which hundreds of sub-postmasters were falsely charged with swindling the Post Office. These charges and prosecutions were prompted by a severe malfunction in accounting by the Post Office s computer system called Horizon, supplied by the Japanese multinational Fujitsu. These victims were falsely charged with financial fraud. They were ruined. Some committed suicide, others were jailed and yet others became bankrupt. It was the most egregious case of injustice in modern Britain. The documentary was widely watched and has directly led to the pillorying of the officials responsible for covering up the Horizon malfunction. Even Hedgie Sunak says that he is passing a law annulling the guilty sentences and offering compensation. Can documentaries force politicians to side, even belatedly, with justice? Am I glad I am not a young person living in Uttarakhand these days. Id probably be in prison by now! This is not a good time to be young and the worst time to be a woman given the Uniform Civil Code bill that has just been passed in the Utttarakhand Assembly earlier this week. Too many jhanjats, I tell you Lets start with the compulsory registration of live-in relationships. Thats dadagiri! Come on, you guys at 21 years of age, a woman needs State approval to move in with a lover? Plus, if under 21 (but an adult), she is required to get her parents to endorse that decision? Why? Crazy logic -- the same woman, at 18, can skip off and marry a man (not another woman) without any such issue. Does that make any sense? Under this law, if she fails to toe the line, she faces imprisonment! Yup. Off she goes to cool her heels in the clink for not submitting a statement to the registrar and the local police, and yes, if either person is under 21, the parents need that statement too. Absurd is too mild a word to describe what Uttarakhands babus/netas piously claim is being done to protect the interests of women. They insist the bill is a response to pressure from equally pious parents who believe that a number of crimes have been committed against women by cohabiting partners. Will registration automatically take care of the problem? Will crimes disappear or lessen? Experts argue that the registration, and all this nonsense, borders on the illegal. Parents cannot impose their rules on anybody over 18. Reducing women to brainless bachchalog incapable of making independent decisions -- right or wrong -- is to strip them of all agency. Besides look at the almost limitless power granted to registrars. They hold all the cards! A registrar has the authority to deny permission to live-in partners! Who the hell is this all-powerful individual sitting in judgment over young couples? The registrar can arbitrarily decide the grounds on which to withhold permission. Denial can be clubbed under coercion, unreasonable influence, and misrepresentation, among other reasons. Imagine a scenario where the registrar is in a foul mood, has had a fight with his/her partner, is sleep- deprived, hungry, tired, bored. A young couple is waiting anxiously to register their relationship. The registrar looks up and decides against it bas! Just like that! Jhat-phat se. The rejected/dejected couple faces a crisis over which they have zero control. Then what? The registrars life continues, while theirs hits a major roadblock. There are way too many annoying issues in the bill, made still more annoying because of the goody-goody overlay which is artfully designed to convey magnanimous, pro-women intentions -- the State as protector of womens virtues. The State as guardian of womens morals. The State as the maa-baap, stepping in to make sure women behave and dont disgrace society through wanton acts of defiance. Controlling women in this medieval manner is not just counter-productive, it is outdated and comical. Women are more than capable of taking charge of their lives. Sometimes, things backfire. But thats the personal responsibility of the woman. The State should back off. And butt out of our bedrooms, our private spaces, our decisions to be with whosoever, without being forced to sign forms and risking jail terms for refusing. On paper, the bill seems all for women and gender equality. But, afsos ki baat hai, the dice are loaded against todays independent minded women who value individuality and can handle tough choices. Why would any adult woman wishing to live in with a partner be subjected to pre-conditions and surveillance? Bad enough that women always have a critical lens focused on every area of their lives -- both private and professional. This bill will step up the scrutiny with hardly any room left for autonomy. What about self-respect? Consenting adults should be recognised as just that. Be it inter-faith marriages or live-in relationships. Nobody needs overbearing nannies, thank you! Murder of democracy is a loaded phrase, and we have to thank our brilliant CJI for boldly calling out a criminal in Chandigarh -- no other word to describe the returning officer in the recent mayoral polls in Chandigarh. Anil Masih is either that arrogant, or a total fool for imagining he would get away after getting caught on camera defacing ballot papers by drawing squiggles over them. The sheer brazenness of the act led to a political fracas, which cancelled out the BJPs victory in the Chandigarhs mayoral elections. We are watching over you said Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, while the court stopped the new dispensation of the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation from holding a budget meeting on February 7. Unfortunately, this is not the only murder being committed in India. We are used to murders by the minute! In fact, so immune have we turned to daily acts of violence and atrocities that go unpunished, one more murder would have been ignored had Justice Chandrachud not raised decibel levels and done some much-needed plain-speak. More than plain-speak was evident as Sharad Pawar faced his worst political humiliation to date when he lost the fight to his nephew Ajit Pawar, and was forced by the EC to give up his cherished ownership of the NCP, its symbol of the clock and pretty much all else associated with the brand. Well, Sharad Pawar may also have lost his own, personal positioning as Indias Mr Indestructible. No matter how swiftly sands shifted in the political landscape, no matter how many parties Sharad Pawar walked away from (six, in case you are curious), the man and the myth survived. Brilliant, dynamic, capable he just didnt know when to quit. Today, at 88, he stands stripped of everything -- except his alleged astronomical wealth. Seven decades in politics, starting out in 1958, the Sharad Pawar saga has limped to an ignominious end this week. Finally, even his shrewdest Machiavellian strategies to cling to power failed him miserably. Its been a long, arduous and eventful ride. But Sharad Pawar is in no hurry to disappear into the sunset over the Sahyadris. Forget it! He has already bagged a brand-new, one-time option to use the name Nationalist Congress Party -- Sharadchandra Pawar ahead of the Rajya Sabha polls. And yes, the Maratha strongmans ultimate obsession to become Indias Prime Minister one day has also slipped out of his hands, like the loyal supporters he enriched but eventually lost. Sab kuch khallas!!! by Mons. Samir Nassar * From the Houthi attacks in the Red Sea to the conflict in the Strip, to which Israeli raids against Iranian targets are added, regional tensions are (also) affecting Syria. In his message for Lent, the Maronite Archbishop of Damascus says that "even dreaming is forbidden" and "fear and despair" prevail among young people. Damascus (AsiaNews) - The war in Gaza has turned into a "regional conflict" that affects "the whole world: Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Jordan and Egypt" an AsiaNews source in Syria preports, referring to the recent tensions in the Red Sea and the Houthi attacks on ships have led to "an increase in the price of oil and goods" that can no longer transit the Suez Canal, with obvious implications for the country as well. This has only served to raise tension in a nation that still bears the marks of a decade-long and still unresolved conflict, there are also "Iranian groups," the source says, "based in Syria and bombed daily by the Americans and Israelis. This too contributes to causing numerous deaths, injuries, casualties and damage'. Confirming these fears is the news of at least four dead, including two civilians, in an Israeli attack on Homs launched from the northern area of Tripoli (Lebanon) that targeted a series of sites. And in the last few hours there has been news that Tehran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian will visit Lebanon today and 'in the early days of next week' Syria to discuss a number of issues, including Israel's attacks. This picture of profound tensions and violence, with inevitable local repercussions of regional and global tensions, is contributing to the loss of lives already scarred by years of war and Western sanctions who fail to see a future at home where it is impossible to escape an "endless Lent" as Msgr. Samir Nassar, Maronite Archbishop of Damascus, points out in his message addressed to the faithful for the period of fasting and prayer approaching Easter. In his reflection, sent to AsiaNews, the prelate speaks of an "endless ordeal" that overwhelms an entire people: FORCED LENT The Syrian people did not have to wait for Lent to arrive, their lives are already filled with austerity and daily sacrifices. For 13 years now, our families are living a forced Fasting which is becoming heavier each day, that seems like an endless Calvary. No heat for the elders fragilized by the cold winter, no baby milk for the newborns, a shortage of many medicines aggravating sicknesses and illnesses, extreme poverty. Those are the conditions leading to the death of many. Once viewed as the hope of the future, the young generation is suffocating and desperate. Poverty, lack of jobs, impossibility to start new families, impossibility to apply for visas and leave the country as consulates are shutting down, eliminating thus their last hope. A total blockade with devastating sanctions. Facing all the above, many are desperately searching to leave, even at the risk of losing their life by drowning on one of those refugee boats. Isnt all of the above a form of forced euthanasia that is slowly and surely being imposed on that poor and deprived population. Let us entrust our concerns to Our Lady of the Resurrection Photo: Caritas Syria The German chemical giant announced plans to speed up its exit from two joint ventures in Korla after allegations claim that its local partners worked with Chinese authorities to indoctrinate the local Muslim minority. The decision follows investigations by German media. Milan (AsiaNews/Agencies) German chemical giant BASF plans to exit from two joint ventures in Korla, Bayingholin Mongol Prefecture (Xinjiang), after German media reports suggest that the companys local partners took part in indoctrination activities involving the regions Uyghur minority. BASF CEO Martin Brudermuller made the announcement today. BASF has been in Xinjiang since 2016 in two joint ventures with local partners (Markor Chemical Manufacturing (Xinjiang) Co. Ltd. and Markor Meiou Chemical (Xinjiang) Co. Ltd., to produce two chemical materials, butanediol, used in plastics and sportswear, and Tetrahydrofuran (THF), used in making elastic spandex fibres. According to recently published media stories, BASFs local partners worked with local authorities in fanghuiju, i.e. monitoring workers in their homes, in 2018 and 2019 according to human rights groups, this practice is used to control and indoctrinate Uyghur families in Xinjiang. As a result of the media reports, a group of Members of the European Parliament asked BASF to withdraw from Xinjiang. BASF began the process of divesting from the region in the last quarter of 2023 based on assessing product environment. The situation in the Xinjiang region has always been part of BASFs overall assessment of its joint ventures in Korla, reads a statement issued by the company. Regular due diligence measures including internal and external audits have not found any evidence of human rights violations in the two joint ventures. Nonetheless, recently published reports related to the joint venture partner contain serious allegations that indicate activities inconsistent with BASFs values. Consequently, BASF will accelerate the ongoing process to divest its shares in the two joint ventures in Korla, subject to negotiations and required approvals of the relevant authorities. BASFs presence in China remains otherwise unchanged, the German firm says, and the company is fully committed to its business activities and planned investments in the country. Already today, Greater China accounts for around half of global chemical production. Global growth in chemical production until 2030 will be driven by Greater China, which will account for around 80% of the total growth during the period from 2022 to 2030. The issue of anti-Uyghur repression by China has been raised many times by international organisations, which Beijing has always denied. In 2022, after years of delays caused by Chinas actions, the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights released a report on human rights violations in Xinjiang, which confirmed allegations of torture, forced labour, and other forms of violence against Uyghurs. by Nirmala Carvalho The extreme gesture of a girl who left a note accusing a nun has aroused the wrath of Hindu nationalists who cry "incitement to suicide". The diocese: she had simply summoned her parents to the school. Bishop Bara of Ambikapur: "We are close to the grief of the family. But we also ask for justice for Sr Mercy". Ambikapur (AsiaNews) - Some exploitation around a tragic event is creating new tensions around Catholic educational institutions in the Indian state of Chhattisgarh. The police arrested Sr. Mercy, a Carmelite nun on February 7 on charges of incitement to suicide and remanded her for trial at a local court in Ambikapur, a major town in Sarguja district. Sr. Mercy, originally from Kerala and in her early thirties, risks a sentence of 10 years in prison or even life imprisonment for the crime. The arrest came after a teenage student of class VI of Carmel School in Ambikapur took her own life on February 6. The nun teaches classes of younger children in the same school. The student hanged herself in her house. In a suicide note recovered by the police she accuses the nun of torturing her. It is not yet clear whether the farewell letter is original. But the accusations against the nun are false, Fr. Lucian Kujur, director of educational institutions of the diocese of Ambikapur told AsiaNews. According to the reconstruction of the facts provided by the diocese, some girls had locked themselves in the bathrooms instead of attending their lessons. A child would have informed the nun, who - despite not being their teacher - had their identity cards handed over to her, summoning their parents for an interview with the school management the following day. In the afternoon one of the girls took her own life. I extend my deepest condolences to the family for the tragic loss of their daughter the bishop of Ambikapur Mgr. told AsiaNews. Antonis Bara -. I was deeply saddened by the news. We share in their pain and offer our support. We pray for this family: may God grant them strength and comfort in this difficult time. But we also ask for justice for sr. Mercy". This time too, what is worrying is the fact that Hindu nationalist groups immediately protested in front of the school, calling for the arrest of the nun and the principal. Sister Mercy is not involved in teaching girls and there have never been complaints against her - says Fr. Kujur - More than 8 thousand students, both male and female, study in the educational institute promoted by the Christian minority. The school is currently closed out of caution on the advice of the police and security forces are deployed. We hope it can be reopened soon." In a WhatsApp message widely circulated in recent hours, another religious of the diocese, the Montfortian fr. Shaji, after reconstructing the facts, comments: Even small actions can become serious at this moment. We pray for the sisters of the Carmel School and in particular for Sr. Mercy." At least 15 people are dead and 100 are missing in the landslide-hit area in Mindanao that had been declared a no build zone in the wake of 2007 landslides; but most residents refused resettlement because of jobs in a local gold mine. Manila (AsiaNews/Agencies) The Philippine Red Cross rescued two children, a three-year-old girl and a two-month-old baby, after almost 60 hours under mud and debris in what was once Masara, a gold-mining village in the southern island of Mindanao hit by a landslide overnight between Tuesday and Wednesday. The survival of the two babies was hailed a miracle" as rescuers had lost all hope of finding anyone alive. Meanwhile, the latter continue to dig because more than 100 people are still missing from the landslide caused by heavy rains. At least 15 people are known to be dead, but survivors along with rescuers are using shovels and bare hands to search for others who might still be alive, said Edward Macapili, an official with the Davao de Oro provincial disaster agency. Speaking about the girl, Macapili said that, "It's a miracle," which gives hope to the rescuers. A child's resilience is usually less than that of adults, yet the child survived." The newborn had no injuries, nor did the little girl, who met her father before going to a medical facility for a check-up. Drug-sniffing dogs are also being used to locate people under the mud and rubble. Heavy earth-moving vehicles have arrived to remove the debris while rain continues incessantly, slowing down operations. Landslides are unfortunately nothing new in the Philippines; they represent a constant danger in much of the country due to its mountainous terrain, but heavy rains have also increased in intensity because of climate change, El Nino, widespread deforestation for farming, illegal logging and, especially, mining. Gold mining in Masara is a case in point. For weeks, heavy rains have battered the region, causing multiple landslides and flooding. Thousands of residents have had to seek shelter far from home. Making matters worse, seismic activity has been affecting the Philippines for months, wearing down already weak rock formations. Consequently, hundreds of families from Masara and four other neighbouring villages have had to abandon their homes and go to emergency centres for fear of further landslides. Local schools have also suspended classes. The area hit by the landslide had been declared a "no build zone" after previous landslides in 2007 and 2008, Macapili said. "People were asked to leave that place and they were given a resettlement area, but the people are so hard-headed and they returned," he explained. The likely reason for their return is the gold mine. You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close Even though most people prefer their trucks to feature a more no-nonsense type of appearance, others will gladly be seen driving something with a little more road presence. This limited series Bandit Edition Chevy Silverado 1500 fits that bill perfectly. Photo: Bring a Trailer Im sure most of you are familiar with the movie Smokey and the Bandit, starring Burt Reynolds, Sally Field, Jerry Reed and Jackie Gleason. Its about a man named Bo Bandit Darville who embarks on a mission to bootleg a truckload of Coors beer from Texas to Georgia faster than you can say breaker one-nine".In the movie, the Bandits iconic black Pontiac Trans Am becomes more than just a car. It's a symbol of freedom, rebellion, and a fine taste in automobiles. Pontiac made four 1977 Trans Am available for the production of the movie, although technically they were 1976-model year cars with 1977 front ends, while the decals were change to 1977-style units.With that in mind, meet the limited series Bandit Edition Chevrolet Silverado 1500, a Crew Cab Custom model with Bandit-themed graphics and aftermarket black and gold 24 wheels. This truck is currently up for grabs to the highest bidder with just 2,400 miles (3,860 km) on its turbocharged four-pot.Aside from the Bandit and Outlaw graphics (hood, body, tailgate), this Silverado also comes with an aftermarket hood scoop, a receiver hitch, a tonneau cover, and 35 x 12.5 Haida tires for those gorgeous 24s.Meanwhile, interior highlights include the black cloth seats with Bandit branding on the headrests, a power-adjustable driver seat, trailer brake controller, power windows, locks and mirrors, woodgrain trim, cruise control, air conditioning, all-weather floor mats, and a touchscreen infotainment system with Wi-Fi connectivity, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.As for the engine, its not exactly something to write home about, but its surprisingly good. Were talking about a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder unit, putting down 310 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque with the help of an eight-speed automatic transmission.In a straight line, this truck will get you from zero to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds, a full second quicker than Chevys old naturally aspirated 4.3-liter V6 variant. GM developed the 2.7L turbo as a truck engine from the outset, hence the generous low-end torque.Of course, nowadays, youve got plenty more engines to choose from within the Chevy Silverado range, yet the only ones that offer more pulling power than the 2.7L turbo are the 3.0L Duramax turbodiesel and the 6.2L EcoTec3 V8, both of which produce 460 lb-ft of torque.Itll be interesting to see what the winning bid on this Bandit-themed Silverado is going to look like. Back in April of last year, a similar truck (but with fewer miles) sold for $77,000 at auction. My guess is this particular Silverado wont quite hit that mark, but it should still fetch a pretty penny. EV PHEV Obviously, GM isn't at the level it wanted to be with zero emissions models the GMC Hummeris a flop, and the Chevrolet Silverado EV, GMC Sierra EV, Chevy Equinox EV and Blazer EV are only hitting the market or incoming. Besides, all of them including the Cadillac Lyriq are plagued by lots and lots of problems, especially on the software side. As such, we are surprised that in a recent conference call with investors at the end of January, GM's Mary Barra announced a significant change of strategy with a renewed focus on reintroducing plug-in hybrids to the lineup.Of course, it's still early on, and the head honcho refrained from naming specific details or model nameplates but it's clear they need them as fast as possible to make sure the company will meet the ever-more-stringent federal fuel economy regulations, according to CNBC . Initially, GM led the way in thesector with the Chevrolet Volt produced over two generations between 2010 and 2019 but the model was phased away, citing slowing demand and other factors.Naturally, at the time, they were also highly confident that the internal EV revolution would make PHEVs superfluous by this time which wasn't exactly the case, as it turns out. Instead, it turns out that Toyota's slow rollout of EVs was a saner strategy for a legacy automaker as nobody seems able to compete with Tesla's quick-rising sales and fast-dropping prices just yet.The imaginative realm of digital car content creators has also noticed GM's new idea and quickly came up with a solution through Vince Burlapp (aka vburlapp on social media or burlappcar.com), a prolific virtual artist who loves to dream of all the latest models across the wide-ranging automotive realm. As such, to get GM out of the predicament quickly, the pixel master simply envisioned a third-generation Chevrolet Volt.There's logic behind it, as the model would have a loyal following already, and people will immediately see it as a potential rival to the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime. Interestingly, not long ago, the author also envisioned a potential Prius EV as Toyota's next step for the series.So, do you think the CGI expert nailed the styling of a potential reborn Volt, and would it be quirky yet enticing enough to jeopardize the popularity of the new Prius Prime? Also, is GM prepared for a return to PHEVs , or should we be fearful they might botch them just like they did with the BEV3 and Ultium-based EVs? A driver plunged their car into the water in Lynn. They walked away, forgetting that the Toyota wasn't in Park. The crossover rolled down into the water as the passenger uselessly tried to stop it and eventually went down with it. Photo: NBC10 Boston | X EV kWh CLOSE CALL: A car crashed into the ocean in Lynn this afternoon, but thankfully everyone was able to escape. https://t.co/TSuJRIJXmF NBC10 Boston (@NBC10Boston) February 7, 2024 The driver and passenger were trying to have a quiet lunch with a view. Minutes into their lunch, the driver got out of the car and walked to a trash can but forgot to put the transmission in Park. Predictably, the car started to roll down toward the water with the passenger inside.A call shortly after 01:30 PM alerted the emergency crew, who rushed to the scene to pull a Toyota from the water at the Blossom Street Pier Ferry Terminal in Lynn, Massachusetts. They found the vehicle completely submerged.In a conversation with NBC10 Boston, the passenger, Gerry Cardona, said that he tried to stop the car from rolling down the ramp usually used by boats. But all he managed to do was roll down the window and crawl out of the car to save his life, which was surely the best thing to do. He swam his way back to the shore and was safe by the time the emergency crew arrived at the scene.Lynn District Fire Chief Joseph Zukas told the local media that Cardona was assessed by the paramedics but refused treatment and did not need hospitalization.Nobody was harmed in the incident, but we can't say the same thing about the car that spent minutes under the water. So all that the fire and rescue department and the G/J Towing and Recovery company could do was bring the car with its wheels back on the ground. But that vehicle is not driving anywhere any time soon or ever for that matter.Saltwater is the end of battery packs. The contact with saltwater could also cause a thermal reaction, so the vehicle needs to be under supervision for the next couple of days. The insurance company is most likely going to write it off.The Toyota is not a Prius, as originally mentioned by those at the scene, but a bZ4X crossover, Toyota's first electric car . The model made its debut in April 2021, entered production one year later, and has not been the most popular of Toyotas out there during its time on the market. The Japanese carmaker was late at the globalparty and delivered a model when almost all carmakers out there already had one or a few in their lineups.The bZ4X comes with either a single motor generating 201 horsepower (204 metric horsepower) in a front-wheel drive layout or a dual-motor setup and 215 horsepower (218 metric horsepower).The front-wheel drive version is equipped with a 71.4-battery sourced from Prime Planet Energy & Solutions, which enables the car to drive as far as 317 miles (510 kilometers) before it needs to be plugged in again. Meanwhile, Toyota equipped the all-wheel drive version with the CATL-sourced 72.8-kWh battery pack for a range of 286 miles (460 kilometers).There is no information on the version of the car plunging into the ocean at the Ferry Terminal in Lynn. But none of them is able to handle a swim. Among the piston-abundant landscape of America, few names would spark more interest and controversy than Tucker Corporation. The companys meteoric passing through the motoring universe was debated for nearly eight decades. The very limited number of automobiles it produced in its three-year existence is one of the greatest legacies of carmaking in America's post-war period. Photo: YouTube/Lou Costabile In 1946, immediately following the return of the entire auto industry to regular civilian market production, Preston Tucker founded a car company and promised a revolutionary automobile. The first completely new car in fifty years was a bold statement, but facts backed it. A flat-six engine mounted in the rear, over the driving axle, a four-speed manual gearbox with a column matchbox-sized shifter gate; independent four-wheel suspension, unheard-of safety features, a cornering light at the nose, and many other goodies the Tucker was on to something.And that was in 1948 when America was still getting refurbished pre-war designs it probably didnt look very well for some of the big players in the industry. The history is riddled with conspiracy theories and partisan assumptions, but the reality is that, by March 1949, the Tucker Corporation folded.It left behind 51 Tucker 48 automobiles, each a masterpiece of engineering and design, and 47 are documented to have survived. To say theyre rare would be a downright offense to the nameplate. Theyre in high demand among the oldtimer collectors society the highest-selling value of one (chassis 1043) was $2.9 million twelve years ago.Another one even rarer than the above example was recently bought by the Martin Auto Museum in Glendale, Arizona, for $1.7 million. The owner of the museum (and of the elusive car) is Mel Martin, the man smiling in the video below when taking delivery of the striking automobile.The fastback design makes the car appear even sleeker and lower than it already is (with a drag index of 0.27 and five feet from ground to roof 1.5 meters!); the neat machine was the epitome of engineering. The rear-mounted engine an aluminum-alloy horizontally opposed six-cylinder powerplant developed for helicopters was groundbreaking for American motoring stereotypes.The architecture wasnt new to the piston universe Volkswagen and Tatra were strong advocates for it in Europe but America hadnt seen it in mass-produces form in any of its domestic nameplates. The aircraft powerplant was converted to water-cooling, and the 335-cubic-inch displacement (5.5 liters) was good for 166 hp and 372 lb-ft of torque. Thats 168 PS and 504 Nm in 1948! For comparison, a Ford V8 made 100 hp in the same year.The car could cruise at 100 mph (161 kph) and offered ample accommodation for six passengers (think 64-inch bench seats - 1.6 meters). The interior A crash board cowl and a safety chamber were the most advanced safety-related specs of the Tucker. The brochure advised front occupants driver and passengers to tuck under the sponge rubber-covered dash in case of impeding collision. The tapered frame was designed to deflect an oncoming obstacle in case of a crash, and the Cyclops Eye third headlight was another never-before-seen contraption among other American automotive offers.The lamp located between the regular lights would turn in sync with the steering wheel and switch on only at a steering angle greater than ten degrees, left or right. The windshield was made from laminated glass and could be pushed off its frame with a strong blow from the inside, virtually eliminating the most common injuries related to car accidents of the era: deep cuts and cracked skulls. It may sound morbid today, but in 1948, that was cutting-edge tech (no offensive pun intended). Similarly, the side glass was also developed to break into pieces without shards and sharp edges.The example featured in Lou Costabiles video is a significant example of the limited batch of 51 units (not that the others would be of a lesser condition). It was used in the Francis Ford Coppola biopic Tucker: The Man and His Dream from 1988. Before filming, the car was repainted the only time in its 76-year existence but retains the original engine (which runs great; hear it in the video) and Cord electric-vacuum actuated transmission.The black car (one of four painted in this color from the factory) had three owners before it was bought in January at the Glendale auction. The original buyer (a Tucker dealer from California) kept the rarity for 18 years, then sold it. The new owner (another Tucker loyalist) enjoyed the fabulous machine for 56 years, between 1967 and 2023. His family sold it in 2023 after the collector passed away.In the late '60s, the cars suspension was changed from the original Torsilastic rubber system (a Tucker patent) to more easy-to-maintain coil springs (the original suspension wasnt reproduced back then). The motor has a replacement water pump and a rebuilt ignition distributor and shows 35,576 miles on the odometer (57,242 kilometers).The engine was rated for 1,500 hours of service life in its aviation applications. Preston Tucker claimed these flat-sixes would last 150,000 miles (241,000 kilometers) under civilian (and civilized) road usage. Again, that was 1948, when the average life of a motor was less than half that number. Play the second video and see more details about that intriguing flat-six.The story of Tucker Corporation remains a dark spot on the record of American motoring, with the innovative carmaker being accused of fraud, sent to court, and ultimately forced into bankruptcy. Despite being acquitted of all charges, Preston Tucker never recovered, and the fantastic automobile went as fast as it appeared. The remaining examples are just as many testaments of how a great idea can get killed off by bureaucracy, government interventions, and sheer ignorance (or maybe something deeper than that). How does an eVTOL technician certification sound like? Flying aboard these electric air taxis promises to be a one-of-a-kind experience for passengers, but these machines are just as new for pilots and technicians. The eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) world is waiting to be discovered by everyone involved in this ground-breaking ecosystem, and Joby is already gearing up for the less-glamorous but essential maintenance aspect. Getting the green light from the FAA (the Federal Aviation Administration) is neither quick nor easy, and rightly so, because safety should be the first and foremost concern when it comes to disruptive technology. There are many steps along the way, and one of them is known as a Part 145 Certificate.California-based eVTOL maker Joby recently secured this particular FAA certification that will allow it to move further in two important directions; one has to do with performing repairs on conventional aircraft, and the other one opens the door to specialized training for technicians. Starting now, Joby is certified to conduct certain repair services on traditional aircraft (limited to airframe, radio, and instrument) as well as to provide paid training to future aircraft technicians.This recent certification comes as a natural follow-up to Joby's partnership with the Aviation High School in Queens, New York. Two years ago, the two decided to add studies on electric propulsion for anyone who might be interested in specializing in eVTOL maintenance one day.Ultimately, the Part 145 Certificate will allow Joby to conduct and offer MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) services for its fully electric air taxis. According to the Californian eVTOL maker, receiving this certification is possibly an industry first.Last year, Joby focused on bringing to life its first conforming aircraft, which means an eVTOL that comes with all the components and equipment of the intended design, as opposed to simple prototypes. The company-conforming aircraft was manufactured in Marina, California, where Joby operated a low-rate aircraft production facility until it decided upon the location for its commercial-scale factory.Earlier this year, Joby was linked to another milestone for the entire industry. It joined forces with Clay Lacy Aviation to start implementing the infrastructure for upcoming air taxi operations in Southern California. The initial infrastructure will be set up at the Clay Lacy-operated terminal at John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Orange County and will include an electric air taxi charger that Joby also develops.Joby's GEACS (Global Electric Aviation Charging System) is an agnostic charging interface compatible with both short-range air taxis and medium-range, fixed-wing electric aircraft. This Californian infrastructure project alone is worth more than $100 million, but it will result in the first air taxi charger in Southern California. Meanwhile, the Joby eVTOL is also proving its prowess at the Edwards Air Force base as part of a pioneering project. It always pains the heart to see an icon in less than... iconic circumstances, and Octopussy is the very definition of a superyacht icon: a bold project that no one thought could be built and which eventually ended up setting a new world record. Photo: Moran Yacht & Ship Photo: Moran Yacht & Ship Octopussy was once part of multi-millionaire John Staluppi's impressive fleet of superyachts named after James Bond movies. It wasn't just a superyacht he bought and owned but had been his brainchild since before construction started, as Staluppi is credited with being the driving force behind the project financially and in every other aspect that matters.Without Staluppi and his hard-headedness, there would have been no Octopussy.Octopussy is a build by Heesen Yachts based on a Heesen naval platform with Mulder Design exterior and interiors. It's also the world's fastest superyacht, topping 53.2 knots (61.2 mph/98.5 kph) at launch, which turned it into a legend. The complicated construction process that preceded the incredible achievement only solidified its status as a proper legend.That was in the late '80s, though. Since its 1988 delivery, Octopussy changed owners several times and went through a couple of refits that undid what Heesen had done to make it lightweight, highly efficient, and super-fast. It lost the crown of the world's fastest superyacht as owners added more lavish features, but it remained a steadily popular charter platform.The last time it sold, in 2021, Octopussy was a mere shadow of its former self and in bad need of a glow-up. Its owner got the original team back together for a refit, promising a new world record as the world's most stable, thanks to a new propulsion system, a stabilization system, and structural changes. New interiors, a new paintjob, and the addition of a diving platform were also included in the brief.In May 2023, Octopussy was in Florida for the refit, with plans for a late 2023 or early 2024 delivery.It looks like the refit is facing another delay: according to reports, Octopussy popped up in Dubai earlier this month, looking worse for wear and still nowhere close to finished. The vessel has been stripped of all equipment, including weather gear, engines, and anchor, and arrived in Dubai by tugboat.It's an empty hull right now, no longer able to travel under its own power and crewed by a minimal 2-person crew. As the video below shows, it's also banged up and patched, so whatever work took place or should have taken place at the Florida yard wasn't completed there.As for the owner's decision to take the vessel all the way to Dubai to continue the refit, it's anyone's guess right now. Here's to hoping this legend lives to impress another day or, at the very least, to sail on its own at a decent, non-record-breaking speed again. It deserves this much. In today's ever-changing and evolving business environment, running your business from a panel van is an idea that is gaining more and more popularity. That's why companies specializing in van conversions are also outfitting vehicles for mobile businesses. One team that can help entrepreneurs get the business van of their dreams is Safe + Sonder Vans, whose latest creation is a beautiful mobile Med Spa/Aesthetics van. Photo: Safe + Sonder Vans Photo: Safe + Sonder Vans Panel or cargo vans are versatile vehicles that offer not only mobility but also adaptability and convenience, which makes them perfect for many applications. A wide range of businesses that do not require a brick-and-mortar building can conveniently be done in a van. There are plenty of examples out there, and with the ample storage space it provides and the plethora of customization options available, any regular cargo van can be converted into a space that meets the unique requirements of your business.Transforming a van into a mobile workspace tailored to your specific business needs will revolutionize the way you operate as you instantly gain more freedom of movement.Safe + Sonder Vans, the creators of this mobile med spa/beauty salon, are based in Battle Creek, Michigan. The team has considerable experience in woodworking and van conversions, with more than forty builds completed so far. They have worked on vans for full or part-time living, couples or families, dog shows and other events, but this is their first van for a mobile business.They only work on commission, so each build is specifically tailored to the customer's needs. In this case, they used their extensive know-how to turn a humble cargo van into an awesome mobile medical spa for a client named Kristen.Built inside a Ram Promaster 3500 High Roof 159" EXT WB, this mobile business proves that a customized cargo van is not just a vehicle; it adds versatility to your operations, allowing you to extend your services on the go. You can hit the road, reach customers wherever they are, and provide your services comfortably within the van. This flexibility can also help expand your customer base.The designers have taken full advantage of the available square footage inside the van to create a functional space where the owner can provide quality services. The interior layout has been thought out to optimize efficiency and make tasks easy to perform. As such, when entering the van, clients/patients are welcome into a small waiting area that has been fitted with a custom bench with integrated storage and a wall-mounted TV to keep them company. The space is also meant to be used as seating for IV therapy. On the wall, they'll find some hangers for their jackets, coats, or purses.The actual workspace takes up the rest of the van, with the narrow wall on which the TV is mounted creating some sense of separation. To ensure privacy during consultations and treatments, there is a curtain that completely separates the two areas.The space where Kristen performs her magic is outfitted with specific equipment, tailored storage solutions, and a motorized, height-adjustable chair where clients can rest comfortably and securely during treatments. A large mirror on the back wall is an essential element that could not be missing from a salon focused on beauty, and a jute puff stool and some wicker baskets bring a tinge of Nordic style into this van.The motorized chair occupies the center of the van, while one of the side walls is lined with under-counter and overhead cabinets. A sink and a mini fridge enhance the space's functionality, while a rooftop AC and a heater ensure comfort inside, regardless of the weather outside.Since this is a medical spa/aesthetics salon, the team at Safe + Sonder Vans has used a neutral color palette. They chose white for the shiplap walls, natural wood for the floorings, and black and white for the cabinetry, adding a stylish touch with golden hardware. They used oak and maple woods throughout and faux marble countertops that boost the overall look.An EcoFlow 10kwh power system that allows complete customization and easy setup ensures everything runs smoothly regardless of where this mobile workspace has to go.We don't know how much Kristen has paid for the Ram Promaster base van, but the van conversion cost her around $40,000. She has already taken delivery of her mobile beauty salon and has opened its doors to clients.Having a mobile business comes with many perks, such as location flexibility, increased efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Various service-based businesses could benefit and thrive from such a panel van conversion. Safe + Sonder's latest van setup is cleverly designed with increased versatility in mind, so it could be used for many other business purposes, such as barbershops, pet groomers, hair salons, tattoo parlor, or physical therapy, delivering convenience and flexibility to your clients. You hear of a new breakthrough development in robotics or artificial intelligence, and your mind instantly goes to post-apocalyptic movies like the all-time classic The Terminator, where the machines take over the world, wiping humankind from it. We're still not there, but we're probably getting closer. Photo: BIGAI The world's first AI (artificial intelligence) child is now a thing that exists . Its name is Tong Tong, which translates to "Little Girl," and it was created by scientists at the Beijing Institute for General Artificial Intelligence (BIGAI).The fact that the program was developed in China explains the scarcity of details around it, as well as the delay in the way the news reached other territories. According to local media , Tong Tong made its (her?) debut at the Frontiers of General Artificial Intelligence Technology Exhibition late last month, where it interacted with attendees and showed off its human-like capabilities.Tong Tong exists only in the digital world, but it's capable of child-like autonomous learning , has emotional intelligence, and a vocabulary of about 600 words, for now. It now acts and speaks like a 3 or a 4-year-old child, but since it's constantly learning, it probably won't stay that way for long.Tong Tong also displays a level of emotional engagement not seen before in AI programs, according to its creators."Tong Tong possesses a mind and strives to understand the common sense taught by humans," a video presentation of the program at the event revealed. "She discerns right from wrong, expresses her attitudes in various situations, and has the power to shape the future." That's a lot of responsibility shouldered by a little AI girl.Using a combination of AI, machine learning, and natural language processing, Tong Tong is capable of adjusting its behavior according to each situation . One example that seemingly impressed audiences was its tendency to tidy up its virtual room, cleaning up spilled milk or straightening a crooked picture frame without being told to in other words, things that no human child of that age would as much as bat an eyelid for, let alone bother to do.But the eeriest thing about Tong Tong is its touted capability of feeling and expressing its "own joy, anger, and sorrow." It's not just that this "child" is able to recognize people and things and behave in a manner strikingly similar to a child; it's also able to mimic a child's behavior down to raw emotions and instinctive reactions."To advance towards general artificial intelligence, we must create entities that can comprehend the real world and possess a wide range of skills," BIGAI director Zhu Songchun reportedly said.That makes sense from the point of view of science, but from a human perspective, making AI children probably feels like taking it a step too far. Or does it? 6x6 The latter could become the new bread and butter for Tesla if the company plays its cards right. At the moment, it's attracting everyone's attention though not necessarily for the best things. Many people are not impressed with its different styling and basically call it a 'fridge on wheels.' Of course, bad publicity is still publicity has anyone noticed that BMW's sales keep rising despite the backlash toward its styling choices of late?Back to the Cybertruck, it seems everyone wants a piece of the action, as it turns out. Both scheming importers, viral socialites, and the imaginative realm of digital car content creators. Vishnu Suresh, the self-taught concept artist behind the zephyr_designz moniker on social media, has been hard at work envisioning an extreme Cybertruck and we really hope that someone will see it and get to work turning it into reality.After all, what could go viral in this ridiculous world where everyone has tried everything? In fact, let's get back to the basics and keep it simple for example, turn a pickup truck into a street fighter that could feel right at home in a modern Tokyo Drift remake. But what's the catch with this unofficial design project?Well, the 21-years-old self-taught concept artist loves two things getting a vehicle as close as possible to the ground, to the point of scaring away ants, and making it as wide as possible, to the point of hypothetically making parking attendants frown at the sight of a car that can't fit inside a designated space anymore.He has done it numerous times and with various models from the tiny Toyota GR Yaris to the massive BMW X7 LCI and just about anything in between . However, this pixel master isn't exactly known for pickup truck morphing in the CGI community. Well, that changes now, all thanks to this satin matte black Tesla Cybertruck that feels ready for a Cyberpunk-based Hollywood blockbuster.It comes not only with a switch to the Darth Vader-style menacing wrap (Cybertrucks have a stainless-steel body, they can't be painted) but also with all the goodies that would impress SEMA Show attendees a slammed attitude, lots of aerodynamic improvements (including wing, side skirts, giant diffuser), and a massive widebody kit. Of course, the CGI author didn't forget about the cherry on top a set of crimson brake calipers draw attention to the matching black aftermarket wheels and the beefier brakes.Of course, the world of social media is never satisfied or restless, which is probably why 99% of the author's fans loved the transformation, but there were still some random enthusiasts who didn't think this imagined stealth fighter for the road was good enough and demanded that it becomes anext! Bubble tops are amazingly desirable today, and while most people look for Impalas, an original Bel Air with the famous design is just as tempting as its more premium brother. It's why the 1962 Bel Air bubble top in these photos deserves a second chance.The car landed online last year but hasn't found a new home until now, likely due to a difficult mix of challenging restoration work and a high selling price.eBay seller vehiclesellingsolutions says the car has been sitting in dry storage since the '80s, so it's no surprise many people walk away at this point. However, restorers love these barn finds, as they typically come with original packages and unrestored goodies that collectors would eventually pay big bucks for.The owner admits the car needs total restoration, "which means everything." The metal is likely super-rough, so you'll spend most of the initial time restoring the car doing the metalwork. The floors, the quarters, and the fenders require urgent attention.The seller claims their Bel Air is a rare example, claiming that only 6,000 units rolled off the assembly lines with a V8.The engine options for the 1962 model year witnessed several changes from the previous year, with Chevrolet introducing the all-new 327 (which eventually became one of the most popular mills in the full-size lineup). The 409 also joined the Bel Air and Impala lineups with 380 and 409 horsepower versions.The Bel Air sells with a 283 that still turns, but the seller didn't reveal if it's the original unit. Considering the decades in storage, an engine turning over by hand is good news, but bringing it back to a working shape will require professional attention.You don't have to be a rocket scientist to understand this Bel Air is a massive project, but if restored correctly, it can eventually be worth a small fortune. It's probably why the garage in charge of finding a new owner isn't willing to drop the price, so buyers will have to spend $22,500 to take this Bel Air home. It's a fairly ambitious expectation despite the bubble top, as the rough shape of the car makes it an expensive project that will involve more big costs before it returns in tip-top shape.A Bel Air bubble top could be had for $2,668 in 1962 if the customer ordered a V8 engine. It was the most expensive configuration, except for the station wagons, which surpassed the $3K threshold in the four-door V8 setup.If you can convince your significant other that this Bel Air has a place in your garage, you must travel to Saint Paul, Minnesota, to pick up the car. It's unclear if the car rolls freely, but you'll receive assistance for transportation. Aurel has aimed high all his life (literally, at 16 he was flying gliders all by himself) so in 2006 he switched careers and got hired as a writer at his favorite magazine. Since then, his work has been published both by print and online outlets, most recently right here, on autoevolution. Full profile The awe-inspiring Double Down is one of the latest big hits in the used superyacht market, selling for more than $30 million despite its lengthy career spanning nearly 15 years. John Rosatti isn't one of those millionaires who try to stay away from the spotlight as much as possible and keep their luxury assets secretive. He has been known for decades as a notorious serial yacht owner and passionate water lover. Nice N Easy, Remember When, Thunderball, and Take It Easy are just some of the floating mansions owned by the BurgerFi founder over the years.By 2017, the number of Rosatti's previously owned superyachts had increased to a whopping 15, and that was in addition to smaller and faster boats, which he also loved. That was the year when the fast-food mogul got to fully enjoy his latest acquisition at the same, the stunning Double Down.The Double Down superyacht was built in 2010, and Rosatti purchased it five years later. He didn't hesitate to invest heavily in an extensive refit, which took most of the following year, resulting in a stunning and decadent floating palace ready to emerge in 2017. "Floating palace" is not a hyperbole, considering that the Italian beauty was a 214-footer (62.25 meters) that could easily accommodate almost 20 guests.Originally designed by the prestigious Italian brand Codecasa, with interior design by Della Role Design, Double Down (as Rosatti renamed it) was refitted under the supervision of another big name in the industry, Evan K Marshall. Some of the most spectacular amenities included a lavish private cinema, a glamorous salon with a grand piano, a fully-equipped gym, and an eight-person jacuzzi towering on the bridge deck. Yet, as decadent and sophisticated as it sounded, Rosatti looked at Double Down simply as his family boat.According to an earlier interview, the millionaire chose this Codecasa pleasure craft primarily for its spacious accommodation. A family man who loved to enjoy cruising with all his close family members and friends, Rosatti found the nine-cabin configuration a great starting point. All the sophisticated amenities and the glamorous style that came afterward were just the cherries on top.The Italian-built pleasure craft is still one of the most voluminous superyachts in its size category, boasting a massive 1,278 GT. In addition to the rare nine-cabin configuration that can welcome up to 20 guests, it also comes with amenities for a huge 19-person crew.Following several refits across the years, this 14-year-old Codecasa is still one of the best family yachts that blends the luxurious comfort of a home away from home with sumptuous classic elegance. It's therefore not surprising that Double Down was snatched off the market for somewhere around $31 million (its last known asking price). It's time for another millionaire to experience family cruising the Codecasa way. 9 February 2024 08:30 (UTC+04:00) Abbas Ganbay Read more Azerbaijan is still discovering the tragedy and bloody traces of Armenian aggression and mostly the crimes committed by the separatist clan in Garabagh. Although Azerbaijan gained the victory and took the control over its occupied territories after the Second Garabagh War and the anti-terrorist measures, there are still a number of humanitarian problems, such as missing Azerbaijani soldiers and civilians from the First Garabagh War, and what is even more terrifying is the emergence of mass graves, deadly mines from underground.. In Asgaran settlement of Khojaly district during the search works, a burial site was discovered where at least 8 human remains were exhumed in a grave discovered near Asgaran fortress. Armenian news channel, having learned about this burial, demanded a forensic research on the "exhumed remains of bodies". As always, the Armenians found an excuse this time and claimed that the bodies as though belonged to Armenian soldiers. In 1991, it was claimed that those killed during the so-called "Ring" military operations belonged to Armenians, but the claims were not justified. Because it has been confirmed that similar graves exist not only in Asgaran, but also in Edilli village of Khojavand district and even near Shusha prison. Also, 1991 cannot be considered as such a distant date. Sufficient facts given by those who witnessed the events of that period leave no reason for doubt. However, Armenian sources say that without international competent expertise any Azerbaijani information cannot have any legal significance. This is precisely the excuse of the Armenians for the intervention of a third party from the West. Khayal Bashirov, Chairman of the Azerbaijan-based think tank, Center for Political and Legal Studies (SHAM), said in his comments to AZERNEWS that Armenia, which is directly involved in the crimes in Garabagh, always used and is using such excuses and claims to get ahead of Azerbaijan in legal issues. "Armenia has filed accusations against Azerbaijan in the international court for all the crimes it has committed so far. However, the Second Garabagh War somehow exposed Armenian crimes, and thus everyone witnessed the atrocities committed by them," the think tank head said. The expert emphasized that Armenians, in addition to human crimes, plundered and looted all underground wealth belonging to the Azerbaijani people and the Azerbaijani state, where they destroyed Azerbaijani tombstones, destroyed religious historical cultural monuments. "Out of 67 mosques, they destroyed 65, others were used as warehouses for cattle, set up pigsties in the mosques. Further to those, they committed various crimes against our fauna, flora, our rivers, our natural resources, and against our ecology," Bashirov added. It is worth recalling that several mass graves have been found so far after the liberation of Garabagh and surrounding areas. Considering the fact that 3,890 Azerbaijani citizens went missing during the first Garabagh war, it can be expected that the number of mass graves will increase. The Azerbaijani State Commission on Prisoners of War, Hostages and Missing Citizens notes that 71 children, 267 women and 326 elderly people are among the missing, and Armenia continues to refuse to provide Azerbaijan with information on mass graves of Azerbaijanis from the first Garabagh war. "I am sure that Armenia is aware of what they have done and admit that it is an Armenian crime. Armenia wants to organize another political show by claiming some so-called event in 1991 today. Armenia should show the path followed by nearly 4,000 Azerbaijanis, rather than demanding to conduct forensic research. Armenia should disclose information about their deaths, about what time they were buried. I believe that these are all excuses for Armenia not take any steps towards signing a peace treaty with us," the political analyst added. --- Abbas Ganbay is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @Noend33 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 9 February 2024 16:47 (UTC+04:00) Elnur Enveroglu Read more The process of peace negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan is still being delayed, with various excuses from Yerevan. This time, the Armenian authorities, unable to make a firm decision, accuse Azerbaijan with false statements. Yesterday, Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan's fiery speech put paradoxical ideas on the agenda again. Mirzoyan, in his speech full of prejudice, described Azerbaijan as an aggressor and also used the so-called Nagorno-Karabakh expression to demonstrate his separatist position. Lets once again remind that the fact that the Prime Minister of Armenia does not recognise the so-called separatist regime in Garabagh and that Yerevan bears no responsibility in this matter contradicts the views of the head of the Foreign Ministry today. First of all, the leadership of Armenia has officially recognised the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan several times before and that Karabakh is the territory of Azerbaijan. Today, MFA head Mirzoyan's allegation of the expulsion of 100,000 Armenians absolutely does not correspond to any facts. First of all, after the successful anti-terrorist measures in Garabagh in September, a group of Armenians left the region in order to avoid criminal responsibility and to avoid being accused of participating in the illegal military operations. In addition, many Armenians who have no connection with Garabagh and were not ethnically born in Azerbaijan, knowingly left the territory of Azerbaijan on their own volition. Most importantly, Azerbaijan created an opportunity for them to leave the area safely. Only in 2020, Azerbaijan conducted military operations to prevent the invasion of Armenia during the 44-day war. In addition, although the occupation ended, the provocations of the Armenian separatists in Garabagh continued until September 19, 2023. Only after the last anti-terrorist measures, separatist groups were prevented in Garabagh. It is significant to note that no civilians were harmed in the anti-terrorist measures on September 19. Armenia and many international organisations have also acknowledged this. Ararat Mirzoyan's statement on behalf of the Yerevan administration confirms Armenia's support for separatism. In such a case, there can be no talk of peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia. In general, such a trend, which continues in Armenia, has become practical. This seems to be continued in an alternate way, so when the Armenian side talks about peace, separatist Armenian groups in the West start to launch anti-Azerbaijan propaganda, or vice versa. This proves once again that the Armenian authorities, inspired by foreign influences, alternately continue their joint activities to obstruct the peace process. This step once again calls into question the authority of Yerevan. On the other hand, the snap presidential elections held in Azerbaijan also had a significant impact. Thus, the Western forces, which are trying to boycott the elections and calling them fake, have put forward Yerevan because they are currently deprived of all opportunities. Until then, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and his entourage presented themselves as supporters of peace. Currently, the changing realities have forced Armenia to take more radical and biased steps. --- Elnur Enveroglu is AzerNews Deputy Editor-in-Chief, follow him on @ElnurMammadli1 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 9 February 2024 13:15 (UTC+04:00) Abbas Ganbay Read more Implementation of the project of expansion of a 130-kilometer section of the Ganja-Gazakh-Georgian border of the Baku-Alat-Gazakh-Georgia highway, which is part of the "Great Silk Road", to 4 lanes continues successfully, Azernews reports. Under the project, the total width of the land plot is 27.5 meters. The road surface will consist of 4-6 lanes, each of which has a width of 3.75 meters. On the Ganja-Gazakh-Georgian border road section, construction works are carried out in three sections. Construction works on Lots 1 and 2 and part of Lot 3 have already been completed and on August 7, 2023, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev took part in the opening of the mentioned section of Ganja-Gazakhbayli, a road with a total length of 102 kilometers. Construction of 67 underpasses, 19 interchanges, and 17 (36) bridges has been completed on this section of the road of technical class 1b, reconstructed by the "State Program of Socio-Economic Development of Regions of the Republic of Azerbaijan". in 2019-2023". At present, construction works on the 28-kilometer section of the Gazakhbayli-Georgian border road, i.e. 102.2-130.15 km section of the project are ongoing. In general, according to the project, the construction of the soil base has been completed, in addition, the construction of the loose base, construction of drainage pipes, underpasses, and bridges is ongoing. In parallel, the gravel base and asphalt pavement are under construction. In total, 4 road junctions and interchanges, 2 river bridges, 14 underpasses, 13 box culverts, and 68 pipe culverts are being constructed on the mentioned section (km 102-km 130 150). Under the project, 28 bus stops have been constructed in the necessary places. 74% of the construction of artificial structures in the said part has already been completed. The completion rate of general construction works is 90%. Construction works on the highway are carried out without stopping the smooth and unimpeded movement of citizens, following the requirements of "Construction Norms and Rules" and under the control of the State Road Agency of Azerbaijan. Ganja-Gazakh-Georgia road with a length of 130.15 kilometers will be widened to four lanes and increased speed to ensure comfortable and safe movement of citizens. In addition, for the safety of the population and drivers using the road, the road must pass outside large residential areas. Baku-Gazakh-Georgia highway is an integral part of the international transport corridor passing through Azerbaijan and plays an important role in the development of relations with the countries of Europe-Asia and the Middle East, as well as in the territory of the republic in this direction. After the full realization of the project, this road, which is a part of the "Great Silk Road" passing through Azerbaijan from East to West and vice versa, will play an important role in increasing international and domestic cargo transportation by road between Europe and Europe-Asia. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 9 February 2024 17:23 (UTC+04:00) Abbas Ganbay Read more In January 2024, the volume of transportation of Kazakh oil from the port of Aktau for export purposes amounted to 287K tons, Azernews reports citing Kazakhstani media. This is 76 thousand tons more compared to the same period last year. "In particular, the volume of oil transportation in the direction of the port of Baku from the port of Aktau increased by 60K tons and amounted to 116K tons. In the direction of the port of Makhachkala from the port of Aktau shipped 171K tons of Kazakh oil, which is 17K tons more compared to the same indicator for January 2023," the report says. In 2022, the President of Kazakhstan Kasym-Jomart Tokayev instructed to increase the volume of oil transportation along the Trans-Caspian corridor. JSC NC KazMunayGas and the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) signed an agreement providing for the transportation of 1.5 mln tons of oil per year from the Tengiz field in the direction of the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline. In addition, for January 2024 the company delivered to Germany 100 thousand tons of oil from Kazakhstan through the system of main oil pipelines of PJSC Transneft. Earlier it was reported that KazTransOil 2024 plans to transit 550K tons of oil from Russia to Uzbekistan through the territory of Kazakhstan, while last year 154.3K tons were delivered. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 9 February 2024 10:36 (UTC+04:00) Abbas Ganbay Read more Azerbaijan's Foreign Ministry spokesman Ayhan Hajizadeh, commenting on Ararat Mirzoyan's speech at the ceremony said "We strongly reject and condemn the statement of Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan against Azerbaijan at the ceremony dedicated to Armenia's accession to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court on February 8," Azernews reports. Ayhan Hajizadeh noted that the Minister's speech once again demonstrates that Armenia's accession to the Rome Statute is an attempt to use these institutions for its unfounded claims, malicious actions, hate propaganda, disinformation, and misinterpretation of international law. The international community's failure to prevent Armenia's aggression against Azerbaijan and failure to stop the occupation of Azerbaijani territories for nearly 30 years, failure to prevent Armenia from committing mass atrocities and crimes against humanity, as well as Armenia's continued war-inciting statements and actions, fuel the sense of impunity in that country. "The continuation of Armenia's claims against the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Azerbaijan, including incitement and propaganda of racial hatred against Azerbaijanis, is not only a violation of the norms and principles of international law but also the interim decision of the International Court of Justice of Armenia in the case of "Azerbaijan v. Armenia" of December 7, 2021 contradicts the obligations assumed based on the decision. Armenia bears responsibility for the war crimes it committed during the aggression, the brutal killings of tens of thousands of civilians, its large-scale ethnic cleansing, and the destruction of thousands of cities, towns, and villages under occupation. The international community needs to remind Armenia of that and demand accountability from it. The Azerbaijani side will continue its efforts towards ending impunity for serious violations of international law, promoting the rule of law, establishing and strengthening peace, security, and stability in the region," Ayhan Hajizadeh said. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 9 February 2024 12:11 (UTC+04:00) Abbas Ganbay Read more According to Armenian media, the Armenian Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure noted that Baku and Yerevan have not yet touched upon this topic in their discussions, Azernews reports. The ministry said that the gas transportation systems of Armenia and Azerbaijan were connected through the following main gas pipelines: Kazakh-Yerevan, 1000 mm in diameter, 6 km to be restored; Ilyichevsk-Yerevan, 700 mm diameter, 22 km to be restored; Goris-Nakhchivan, 700 mm diameter, 16.5 km are subject to rehabilitation. As early as last fall, Deputy Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure Hakob Vardanyan spoke about Armenia's readiness to restore gas pipelines from Azerbaijan if political issues are resolved. The restoration of gas pipelines between Armenia and Azerbaijan can be considered in the context of opening communications in the South Caucasus. And Azerbaijan, unlike Armenia, in every possible way contributes to the realisation of this clause of the trilateral statement signed in 2020. In particular, the Azerbaijani side is actively working to restore the Zangazur corridor. The Armenian side, on the other hand, is avoiding concrete steps in this direction, arguing this behaviour with groundless "fears". In this case, the question arises: is it worth discussing the restoration of gas pipelines now if the Armenian side wants to leave everything only on paper? --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 9 February 2024 13:31 (UTC+04:00) Abbas Ganbay Read more The State Commission on Prisoners of War, Hostages, and Missing Persons reported that the search and excavation of the mass grave found around the Asgaran fortress continues, Azernews reports. It was noted that after the anti-terrorist measures of local character conducted in September 2023, Beglaryan Rashid Aramayi was detained on suspicion of torturing Azerbaijani captive hostages during the First Garabagh War, as well as committing war crimes against peace and humanity, and by Articles 112 and 113 of the Criminal Code, he was brought to criminal responsibility as an accused under Articles 115.2, 279.1, and 318.1. In the course of the investigation, it was established that up to 200 civilians, mostly women, children, and elderly people, had been killed on February 26, 1992, by illegal Armenian armed groups, of which he was a member, as a result of an ambush and automatic weapons fire in the area of the Asgaran fortress, and that the personal belongings of the victims had been looted. He said that the bodies were buried in the area and clearly showed the places where the criminal acts were committed. Last November, the working group of the State Commission on Prisoners of War, Hostages, and Missing Persons, with the participation of the expert personnel of the relevant structures, started the search and excavation works in the territory mentioned by Rashid Beglaryan. Even though unfavourable weather conditions led to a temporary cessation of excavations, later the search and excavation work around Asgaran fortress were resumed. In the process of excavation, a mass grave was discovered, where the bodies of more than 8 people were buried, presumably belonging to the citizens killed during the Khojaly genocide. Search, excavation, and exhumation works continue in the territory. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 9 February 2024 12:34 (UTC+04:00) Abbas Ganbay Read more Azerbaijan's Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov and newly appointed Georgian Foreign Minister Ilia Darchiashvili held a telephone conversation, Azernews reports. Minister Jeyhun Bayramov congratulated his colleague on his reappointment as Foreign Minister in the new Georgian government and wished him success in this honourable position. The sides discussed the current state of friendship and strategic partnership relations between the two countries, as well as current plans and prospects for further development of these relations in the future. The ministers also exchanged views on regional issues and areas of cooperation within the framework of international organisations. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 9 February 2024 10:42 (UTC+04:00) Abbas Ganbay Read more Prime Minister of the Republic of Albania Edi Rama has congratulated President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on his resounding victory in the snap presidential election, Azernews reports. Heartfelt congratulations to my dear Ilham Aliyev on his reconfirmation as the undisputed leader of friendly Azerbaijan, a lovely country with diligent, hardworking people who, under his leadership, are making great strides forward! I look forward to assisting in the opening of the new Albanian Embassy in Baku very soon, PM Edi Rama said in a post on the social media platform X. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 9 February 2024 14:32 (UTC+04:00) Azerbaijan's Minister of Foreign Affairs Jeyhun Bayramov has had a telephone conversation with his Georgian counterpart Ilia Darchiashvili. During the phone conversation, FM Jeyhun Bayramov congratulated his colleague on his re-appointment and wished him success in his esteemed position. The ministers discussed the current state of the friendly ties and strategic partnership between the two countries, as well as the prospects for bilateral relations. They also exchanged views on regional issues and aspects of cooperation within international organizations. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 9 February 2024 11:03 (UTC+04:00) Abbas Ganbay Read more President of the US-based Foundation for Ethnic Understanding Rabbi Marc Schneier has congratulated President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on his thumping victory in the snap presidential election, Azernews reports. Congratulations to H.E. President Ilham Aliyev on his reelection. I greatly admire my distinguished friend for his outstanding leadership in establishing Azerbaijan as one of the beacons of interreligious and intercultural dialogue and coexistence in the world and for his exemplary support of the State of Israel and the Jewish people, Rabbi Marc Schneier said on his official account. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 9 February 2024 15:50 (UTC+04:00) As a result of Armenia's continued occupation, genocide, deportation, and terror policy against Azerbaijan, thousands of our compatriots have been killed on the grounds of ethnic and religious hatred, taken captive, or gone missing, said Azerbaijans Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman) Sabina Aliyeva as she commented on the discovery of a mass grave found in the liberated Khojaly district. After the liberation of our lands from occupation, mass graves have been discovered in Saryjaly village in the Aghdam district, Dashalti village in the Shusha district, Edilli village in the Khojavand district, Farrukh village in the Khojaly district, Yukhari Seyidahmadli village in the Fuzuli district, as well as in Kalbajar and other residential areas. The discovery of another mass grave in the territory of the Asgaran settlement in the Khojaly district, presumably containing the remains of the residents killed during the Khojaly genocide, confirms once again that Armenia committed genocide against Azerbaijan, the most heinous crime against humanity. Despite multiple appeals to international organizations regarding the genocidal crimes committed by Armenia, the legal evaluation of these genocidal facts at the international level has not yet been made, and persons responsible for numerous crimes remain unpunished. International organizations should stop the indifference and double standards shown towards Azerbaijan, legally evaluate crimes that result in mass and severe violations of human rights and freedoms, and those responsible for the commission of these crimes should be held accountable, the Ombudsman added. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 9 February 2024 16:31 (UTC+04:00) Abbas Ganbay Read more Azerbaijan's Ambassador to the Netherlands, Rahman Mustafayev, wrote on the social network "X" that "the international community's failure to prevent Armenia's war crimes only increases the sense of impunity in this country," Azernews reports. "It is deeply symbolic that Armenia's accession to the ICC coincided with the discovery of a new mass grave in Khojaly, where the Armenian army killed more than 600 Azerbaijani civilians," the publication says. Recall that a mass grave has been discovered in the Asgaran settlement of the Khojaly district. At least 8 human remains were found in a grave discovered near Askeran fortress It is worth recalling that, after the liberation of Garabagh and adjacent regions, several mass graves have been found so far. Taking into account the fact that 3,890 Azerbaijani citizens went missing during the first Garabagh War, it is expected that the number of mass graves will increase. The Azerbaijani State Commission on Prisoners of War, Hostages, and Missing Citizens notes that of the missing people, 71 were children, 267 were women, and 326 were elderly people. Armenia refuses to provide information to Azerbaijan about the mass graves of Azerbaijanis from the first Garabagh War. The State Commission on Prisoners of War, Hostages, and Missing Persons reported that the search and excavation of the mass grave found around the Asgaran fortress continues, Azernews reports. It was noted that after the anti-terrorist measures of local character conducted in September 2023, Beglaryan Rashid Aramayi was detained on suspicion of torturing Azerbaijani captive hostages during the First Garabagh War, as well as committing war crimes against peace and humanity, and by Articles 112 and 113 of the Criminal Code, he was brought to criminal responsibility as an accused under Articles 115.2, 279.1, and 318.1. In the course of the investigation, it was established that up to 200 civilians, mostly women, children, and elderly people, had been killed on February 26, 1992, by illegal Armenian armed groups, of which he was a member, as a result of an ambush and automatic weapons fire in the area of the Asgaran fortress, and that the personal belongings of the victims had been looted. He said that the bodies were buried in the area and clearly showed the places where the criminal acts were committed. Last November, the working group of the State Commission on Prisoners of War, Hostages, and Missing Persons, with the participation of the expert personnel of the relevant structures, started the search and excavation works in the territory mentioned by Rashid Beglaryan. Even though unfavourable weather conditions led to a temporary cessation of excavations, later the search and excavation work around Asgaran fortress were resumed. In the process of excavation, a mass grave was discovered, where the bodies of more than 8 people were buried, presumably belonging to the citizens killed during the Khojaly genocide. Search, excavation, and exhumation works continue in the territory. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 9 February 2024 17:25 (UTC+04:00) Abbas Ganbay Read more Group of expert evaluators of the Global Forum on Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes has visited Baku within the framework of a new stage of assessment, Azernews reports, citing the State Tax Service under the Ministry of Economy. By becoming a member of the Global Forum on Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes, Azerbaijan has committed to participate in the process of application and assessment of international standards of transparency and exchange of information. The Global Forum regularly assesses the level of compliance with international standards for the exchange of tax information with other countries in member countries. As part of the process, the compliance of the existing legal and regulatory framework with international standards is assessed. The compliance of a country's information exchange system with international requirements is assessed by a rating score. The first phase of Azerbaijan's assessment was completed in 2016, and the country received a high rating score - "largely compliant" (largely compliant). Currently, the Global Forum has started a new phase of the assessment. A group of expert evaluators of the Global Forum visited Baku within the framework of the process, which will start in September 2023. Deputy Head of the State Tax Service Ilkin Veliyev met with the group of experts and informed them about the issues of interest. Meetings of experts with representatives of other state institutions and responsible persons are also envisaged within the assessment process. Approval of the final rating is envisaged for the end of 2024. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 9 February 2024 16:50 (UTC+04:00) King of Bahrain Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has congratulated President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, on his resounding victory in the snap presidential election, Azernews reports, citing Bahrain News Agency (BNA). The King wished President Ilham Aliyev continued success in carrying out his presidential duties to achieve the aspirations of the Azerbaijani people for further progress and prosperity. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 9 February 2024 18:40 (UTC+04:00) Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ali Asadov has held a telephone conversation with newly appointed Georgian Premier Irakli Kobakhidze, Azernews reports. Ali Asadov congratulated Irakli Kobakhidze on his appointment as Prime Minister of Georgia and wished him success in his future endeavours. During the phone call, the sides hailed the development of friendly relations and mutually beneficial cooperation between Azerbaijan and Georgia in various domains. The two expressed their hope for further cementing a strategic partnership. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 9 February 2024 17:47 (UTC+04:00) Abbas Ganbay Read more The Russian Foreign Ministry has made a statement on the occasion of presidential elections in Azerbaijan, Azernews reports. "Russia welcomes the successful holding of presidential elections in Azerbaijan." The statement reads: "The Russian side welcomes the successful holding of the elections in Azerbaijan and is determined to further strengthen the alliance and strategic partnership with the Republic of Azerbaijan, active joint work on international and regional issues, including the implementation of the entire set of trilateral agreements at the highest level on the normalization of Armenian-Azerbaijani relations," the statement said. The Russian Foreign Ministry recalled that Russian President Vladimir Putin warmly congratulated Ilham Aliyev during a telephone conversation and sent a congratulatory telegram: "It noted that the voting results fully confirmed the nationwide support for the course pursued by the President of Azerbaijan on accelerated socio-economic development of the state and strengthening of its positions in the world arena." It is noted that 790 international observers followed the elections in Azerbaijan. The Russian Federation sent 148 representatives, including through the Federal Assembly, Executive Committee and IPA CIS, SCO, OSCE ODIHR. "CIS Secretary General Sergei Lebedev emphasized that the elections complied with the principles of conducting a democratic expression of will, and there was a large voter turnout. According to the Chairman of the Federation Council Committee on International Affairs Grigory Karasin, the voting was held on a competitive alternative basis and in a favorable atmosphere. SCO Secretary-General Zhang Ming pointed to the openness and transparency of the elections. Against this background, the assessments of the Western countries and international structures controlled by them looked extremely biased, which, as we have seen, were initially extremely biased towards the presidential election in Azerbaijan and were working on pre-established methodologies to discredit the electoral process," the Russian Foreign Ministry said. Extraordinary presidential elections were held in Azerbaijan on February 7. According to preliminary data from 100% of polling stations, Ilham Aliyev is leading in the election with 92.12% of the votes. ---- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 9 February 2024 23:17 (UTC+04:00) President of Lithuania Gitanas Nauseda has sent a congratulatory letter to President Ilham Aliyev on his landslide victory in the election, Azernews reports. Expressing his best wishes for the continued success to President Ilham Aliyev and prosperity to Azerbaijan, President Gitanas Nauseda said: I firmly believe that Lithuania and Azerbaijan, under your presidency, will maintain meaningful cooperation relations and further develop successful bilateral and multilateral partnerships. I am convinced that there is considerable scope for expanding relations between Lithuania and Azerbaijan, especially in developing bilateral contacts in the fields of economy, information technologies and renewable energy, the Lithuanian President noted. May I again offer my congratulations on your re-election since the new mandate serves as a strong basis for building sustainable peace in the region, President Gitanas Nauseda emphasized. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 9 February 2024 23:10 (UTC+04:00) Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama has congratulated Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on his victory in the snap presidential elections, Azernews reports. The letter reads: His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Your Excellency, Dear Brother, Your electoral success and re-election to the highest position of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, offers me the right opportunity to convey to you my best and most heartfelt wishes for success in this new presidential term. With the opportunity offered to me by the occasion, let me to express to you, on behalf of myself and the Albanian government, all our gratitude for the high-level dialogue between us and cooperation in such important sectors for our economies, especially in energy and tourism. I strongly believe that your new presidential mandate will release new energy into the relations between our two friendly countries, as well as I am convinced that the opening of the embassy of the Republic of Albania soon in Baku will contribute to the best of acceleration of communication between us. Once again, with best wishes, please accept, Your Excellency, the expression of my highest consideration. Sincerely, Edi Rama Prime Minister of the Republic of Albania --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 9 February 2024 19:22 (UTC+04:00) Moldovan President Maia Sandu has sent a congratulatory letter to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on the occasion of his victory in the snap presidential elections, Azernews reports. The letter reads: His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Dear Mr. President, Please accept my sincere congratulations on your re-election as President of the Republic of Azerbaijan. I wish you and the people of Azerbaijani peace and prosperity. I hope that the existing traditionally friendly relations between the Republic of Moldova and the Republic of Azerbaijan, based on the principles of mutual respect and trust, will continue to serve as the foundation for the development of cooperation between our countries. I would like to emphasize the constructive nature of the political dialogue between our countries and confirm that my country is open to deepening bilateral relations. I am confident that through joint efforts, we can further enhance Moldova-Azerbaijan cooperation in economic, trade, investment, energy, and agriculture sectors for the benefit of our countries citizens. Your Excellency, I wish you success and achievements in your high state activities, and kindly ask you to accept my highest respect. Respectfully, Maia Sandu President of the Republic of Moldova --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 9 February 2024 20:20 (UTC+04:00) Irakli Kobakhidze, the newly confirmed Georgian Prime Minister, on Friday signed a decree on the appointment of ministers following the confidence vote in the Parliament on Thursday, Azernews reports, citing Agenda. After signing the document, all ministers have officially commenced their work, the Government press office said. The new PM and his cabinet were approved following the resignation of Irakli Garibashvili as the countrys PM in late January. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 9 February 2024 20:50 (UTC+04:00) Mikheil Saakashvili, the imprisoned former President of Georgia, on Friday, said the platform for European unity in the domestic political scene, initiated by President Salome Zourabichvili this week, was welcome," Azernews reports, citing Agenda. In his comments, Saakashvili said now is not the time for discussions and mere talk, but to get down to business. Formulate a concrete proposal, and involve the civil sector, non-governmental organisations, political parties, businesspeople and representatives of the state apparatus to develop concrete things, Saakashvili said in his call. The former official stressed the focus must be made on ensuring free parliamentary elections in the country, with the vote set for later this year. If I were the President, I would take the public platform to the street - meeting the same people in [your offices] is like staying in one place. Freedom Square [in Tbilisi] was diminished specifically to reduce the space [for protest rallies]. The hippodrome [territory], a familiar place for Salome [the place where Zourabichvili protested against Saakashvili in 2005], practically no longer exists. But there is Rustaveli Avenue [in Tbilisi], which can be filled [with people], he continued. The former official added if the President decided the lead the initiative, we will support it. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz Coast Guard Cutter Steadfast Decommisioned in Ceremony at N. Oregon Coast's Astoria Published 2/08/24 at 5:15 p.m. By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff (Astoria, Oregon) After nearly 60 years of helping to guard the Oregon coast, a rather legendary and hard-working US Coast Guard vessel was decommissioned in a ceremony last week in the north Oregon coast town of Astoria. It was a marking-of-passage for a ship that had served the region and this country for over half a century. (Photo courtesy US Coast Guard) The Coast Guard let go of the US Coast Guard Cutter Steadfast (WMEC 623) on February 1, one of the last remaining Reliance-class medium endurance cutters, with now only 12 left in the fleet. Rear Adm. Brendan McPherson, deputy commander, Coast Guard Pacific Area, presided over the ceremony for the Steadfast. It first went to work in 1968, and over these 56 years its crew engaged in countless rescues, counter-narcotic operations and illegal immigrant enforcement. At 210 feet, it was one of 16 of these types of vessels put into the water back then. McPherson said the Steadfast had frequently conducted lifesaving missions, serving the country with honor as it helped protect national security and protect the United States' Marine Transportation System and its array of ports, docks and shipping lanes. I am immensely proud of Steadfasts crew for their dedication to duty while enhancing our nations maritime safety and security throughout the Pacific Ocean, McPherson said. One of its most recent missions was among its most impressive in its history, with the cutter out of port for about 64 days and a mileage of some 11,742 nautical miles. It traveled from Oregon down to the coast of central Mexico, working on public affairs missions, helicopter operations, training new personnel, and various kinds of law enforcement effots. Now, the cutter and soon all the other 210-endurance class will be replaced by the 360-foot Heritage-class offshore patrol cutters and the 154-foot fast response cutters. The offshore patrol cutters will provide the majority of offshore presence for the Coast Guards cutter fleet, bridging the capabilities of the 418-foot national security cutters, which patrol the open ocean, and the 154-foot fast response cutters, which serve closer to shore, US Coast Guard said in a release. After this, the ship will become part of the U.S. Coast Guards Foreign Military Sales Program and transferred to Baltimore. It will then become available for sale to other countries as part of the Excess Defense Article, where numerous vessels go eventually. Steadfasts commanding officer, Cmdr. Brock Eckel, said the ship has had an incredible legacy of service to the nation. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to lead such an amazing crew through dynamic patrols and high-risk counter-narcotics operations, he said. I want to thank the crew for their dedication, camaraderie, and desire to serve our country; they are what make this ship so special. In March of 2023, the Steadfast returned from this adventure (excerpt from Oregon Coast Beach Connection): The US Coast Guard (USCG) saw the return to port of its cutter Steadfast (WMEC 623) this week, back in Astoria after 69 days of patrolling the waters off Oregon all the way down to South America and engaging in a handful of successful counternarcotics operations. According to the USCG in Astoria, the Steadfast disrupted the flow of illegal narcotics on three sizable endeavors that resulted in the seizure of more than 7,500 pounds of cocaine, valued at $85.6 million, assuring that none of it would reach U.S. maritime borders or the streets of North America. More than 12,000 nautical miles were traversed during the operation, as the crew conducted training as well as assisted with search-and-rescue missions and providing assistance with their helicopter. There were numerous law enforcement missions during their run from their homeport on the Oregon coast down through Mexico and beyond. MORE ASTORIA BELOW Hotels in Astoria - Where to eat - Astoria Maps and Virtual Tours MORE PHOTOS BELOW More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight Andre' GW Hagestedt is editor, owner and primary photographer / videographer of Oregon Coast Beach Connection, an online publication that sees over 1 million pageviews per month. He is also author of several books about the coast. LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on Oregon Coast Beach Connection All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright Oregon Coast Beach Connection. Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted Increased Sneaker Wave Threat Along Oregon Coast, Washington Coast Today Through Weekend Published 2/08/24 at 6:45 p.m. By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff (Oregon Coast) The south Washington coast and upper half of Oregon's coast are the subject of a warning about sneaker waves. From today (Thursday) through the weekend, the National Weather Service (NWS) says that there is a greater risk of sneaker waves happening along the beaches. (Above: Ocean Shores, Washington coast, courtesy Washington King Tides Project / Cherie Fisher) This all aligns with the current king tides happening today through Saturday, but that isn't necessarily what's causing or even contributing to it. As the NWS explained to Oregon Coast Beach Connection Wednesday, this set of high tide events are a little too distant from the winter solstice to actually be perigean tides (aka king tides). [Last of Oregon Coast King Tides (Sort of) Tomorrow Through Saturday] There are some fairly long periods between wave swells offshore, however, and that's why the two coastlines have a greater threat. A strong westerly swell will facilitate a high threat of sneaker waves across our coastal beaches today through this weekend, the NWS said. Beachgoers are encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings. Never turn your back on the ocean. The NWS has not issued a formal advisory or threat, but it has issued a couple of informal statements on its website. Neither the northern Washington coast nor the south Oregon coast have issued any message about sneaker wave threats. Especially in southern Oregon beaches, predicted wave height and period swells are much less for areas such as Port Orford, Coos Bay or Brookings. Seas offshore are a big part of this as well, clocking in at 10 to 12 feet high for the areas that include Seaside, Long Beach, Westport, Cannon Beach, Manzanita, Pacific City, Newport or Florence. That starts to diminish a bit and by Sunday conditions appear to be less impactful, according to NWS predictions. Holiday Beach near Newport / Oregon Coast Beach Connection A westerly long period swell is resulting in waves around 10-12 feet at 15-17 seconds, the NWS said. Given the conditions, there is an an enhanced sneaker wave threat through at least Thursday afternoon along area beaches. Beachgoers should maintain heightened awareness for waves running farther up onto the beach than anticipated. Avoid rocks and jetties and never turn your back on the ocean. That period of 15 to 17 seconds is the big indicator of sneaker waves. The longer the period between swells, the more a set of breakers can combine into a larger wave and then charge up the beach without warning. For the south Oregon coast, swells offshore are around 6 feet at 13 seconds, with wind waves around one foot. Those rise to more like 9 feet on Saturday before backing off on Sunday. Surf conditions remain calm the rest of the week. Oregon Coast Hotels for this event - South Coast Hotels - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours MORE PHOTOS BELOW China Beach near Brookings / King Tides - Pete Chesar More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight Andre' GW Hagestedt is editor, owner and primary photographer / videographer of Oregon Coast Beach Connection, an online publication that sees over 1 million pageviews per month. He is also author of several books about the coast. LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on Oregon Coast Beach Connection All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright Oregon Coast Beach Connection. Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted Worst Beaches of the Oregon Coast Published 2/06/24 at 3:35 a.m. By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff (Oregon Coast) There's a lot of made-up discussions about what are the best beaches of the Oregon coast, and it's all BS subjective, really. The same often goes for what is the worst: crowded or uncrowded, or whatever. Luckily, there aren't really any seriously litter-prone or dirty parts of this shoreline. (Falcon Cove / Oregon Coast Beach Connection) However, there is a definite category of worst beaches around this region in terms of dangers. Big ocean storms aren't always the killer, either. Sometimes it just takes a somewhat large tidal event or the infamous sneaker waves. One big rule of thumb: if tides are high don't touch beaches where there's just cliffs behind you. Open beaches with sandy dunes between you and the street are fine like Manzanita, Cannon Beach, Seaside, parts of Lincoln City, chunks of Gold Beach, or those stretches just north of Coos Bay. Other areas of Lincoln City have only one access and large, earthen walls, as does Newport's Nye Beach, Oceanside parts of Bandon, etc. These are where tides can trap you. More of Oregon's worst beaches (for safety in high tide events): Boiler Bay by Depoe Bay. Don't be daft and go down here. It's insanely slippery for one thing, but there's almost never an actual beach. Two teens died here in the '90s, and another pair had to be rescued in the last decade as they got themselves stuck on a remote rocky ledge. It and that famed boiler are meant to be viewed from above. Viewpoints, Tidal Surprises of Depoe Bay's Boiler Bay, Central Oregon Coast Thor's Well and Cape Cove Near Yachats. Thor's Well is one of the hottest properties on the coast for snapping photos, but the dangers are routinely ignored. If water is gushing up out of it stay far back. There are so many videos out there on the net of families and other folks getting knocked around by big waves coming out of it, all of them assuming they'll be fine. One person visiting from Hawaii did die here last decade, and it's only a matter of time before there's another. Thor's Well at the Chasm, Video Not far from it is Cape Cove Beach, really the bottom end of the south face of Cape Perpetua. That one is fine sometimes, but plenty of times during the year it literally does not exist: it's just a boiling cauldron of death. About Cape Cove Beach: Unique Spot Only Exists Half the Time Courtesy Oregon King Tides Bandon's Face Rock and Coquille Point. By far and away a couple of the loveliest beach walks along the coast, this section of Bandon doesn't kid around when it comes to storm waves. The biggest danger? Sneaker waves that charge far up the beach, quite a ways from the normal tideline. Bandon's beaches like Newport's Nye Beach and parts of Lincoln City are the archetypal bad spot to be when tides get angry. There's only one egress point amid those high cliffs. Luckily, there haven't been many reports of really bad things happening to folks, but it's one of those areas that can get extremely dangerous. Falcon Cove near Arch Cape. Just south of the Arch Cape Tunnel, one glorious little spot is wonderfully hidden behind a mountainous forest, sitting below a neighborhood you can't even see. Falcon Cove was once a true hidden spot, but these days many are familiar with it. It's an unusual spot, as the tiny crescent of a beach usually doesn't have much sand and only large piles of rounded, polished stones. These make a really cool noise, nicknamed Magic Rocks, as the tide causes them to rattle. See more on Falcon Cove However, winter and all but the calmest conditions here should be considered a no-no to venture out onto. A whole family died here in 2020 just walking the area above it, as a massive winter storm wave swooped up and grabbed the dad and kids. It was one of the more heartbreaking incidents on the coast. Don't even hang out near the pathway edges when tides are unruly. All it took was one sneaky sneaker wave. Photo courtesy CoastWatch / Redfish Rocks Marine Reserve Rocky Point near Port Orford. A few miles south of Port Orford, and closer to Humbug Mountain, there's a subtle gravel pullout and what lies below isn't always evident. That's a good thing, because the access to Rocky Point is pretty iffy at times. In fact, the beach really doesn't exist at higher tides. Even at lower tides, there's not much to it, so be cautious even on fair weather days. Still, this teensy spot found just south of the promontory called Rocky Point has loads of interesting things washing up. And after storms have finished with it some intriguing stones and bedrock can appear. It's like going back in time. Beneath majestic Humbug Mountain provides only a small tract of beach as well, so it's best left alone when tides are close. Humbug Mountain and State Park on South Oregon Coast: Varied, Intricate Attractions Photo courtesy CoastWatch / Julia Sumangil Port Orford's Battle Rock. Under normal circumstances, Port Orford's famed Battle Rock is one of the most delectable of south Oregon coast spots on the scenic menu. Crawling up that giant slug-like mound of rock is one heckuva lot of fun. The views from here are exceptional as well. However, there's not much space on this part of the beach, and higher tides can spell dangerous trouble. Watch the storms from above on the grassy areas. Photo courtesy Manuela Durson - see Manuela Durson Fine Arts for more Secret Beach, Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor. Near Brookings, Secret Beach is one of the big attractions in the area, but the length of the walk down and the steep slope of the last section often deters people from heading all the way to the sands. And that's just as well. There are times when there is no Secret Beach: it's just one big mass of swirling, angry ocean. To add to the unsafe factor: it's not seriously maintained as it's not part of the state park system. The path to Secret Beach is not to be trifled with, either. There was a death there in 2023 after a small group of folks ignored the main trail and veered off onto a smaller one that simply ended in a sheer cliff. One Deceased in Harrowing Fall, Rescue on S. Oregon Coast - Near Brookings Oceanside and Tunnel. The grand north Oregon coast attraction sucks you in: that tunnel is hard to resist. Yet that beach in itself and certainly the other side can be but a mere sliver given the right oceanic conditions. Then there's the danger of rockslides at Oceanside from above. In the '90s, there was at least one person who got stuck on the other side when rocks came tumbling down, closing off access. In late 2020, another slide trapped a lot more people on the other side up around 12 individuals. This got a little tense for the US Coast Guard, as the tide started coming in. A few managed to crawl up the hillside while others had to be coaxed through a claustrophobic three-foot gap in the cliff debris. Oceanside, Oregon - Other Side of Maxwell Point, Hidden Area Oregon Coast Beach Connection has video of another group of people ignoring the obvious dangers of that spot during higher tides. Oregon Coast Hotels in this area - South Coast Hotels - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours MORE PHOTOS BELOW More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight Andre' GW Hagestedt is editor, owner and primary photographer / videographer of Oregon Coast Beach Connection, an online publication that sees over 1 million pageviews per month. He is also author of several books about the coast. LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on Oregon Coast Beach Connection All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright Oregon Coast Beach Connection. Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted Archived Results for Friday, February 9th, 2024 Newer Older Entries Page 1 Page 2 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? It is usually risky to predict how the U.S. Supreme Court will rule on a case by listening to the oral arguments. However, in the case of Colorado trying to keep Donald Trump off the ballot it would appear that the radicals who fashion the challenge are not only going to lose but that the SCOTUS will blow them away. Heres the Epoch Times report on the oral arguments this week: WASHINGTONThe Supreme Court on Feb. 8 heard oral arguments in the high-profile case involving former President Donald Trumps bid to remain on the Colorado primary ballot, expressing skepticism of the arguments in favor of removing him. Lawyer Jason Clifford Murray, who argued for the six Colorado voters who petitioned to remove President Trump from the ballot, at times frustrated judges by sidestepping questions about the consequences of a ruling in his favor. Article 2 gives states broad powers to run elections, Mr. Murray argued, and those powers involve removing ineligible candidates from the balloteven in a national electionthrough the process of their choosing. The justices expressed skepticism that a ruling affirming the Colorado decision would settle the matter. State Authority Limits Why should a single state get to decide who gets to be the president of the United States? Justice Elena Kagan asked. That means is quite extraordinary. Mr. Murray said that wasnt the case because the Supreme Court would ultimately make a decision that could inform all other states to take Colorados record of factlargely based on the Jan. 6 Select Committee reportas settled. This answer drew several more hypothetical situations of chaos from the justices, who pointed out that states have different processes for adjudicating ballot issues, meaning that several different records of fact and decisions could come before the Supreme Court. In that case, why should they accept one over another? Would we have to determine appropriate rule of evidence ... standard of proof? Justice Samuel Alito asked. Would we give any deference to these state court judges, some of whom are elected. ... Would we have to have our own trial? Mr. Murray answered no, but that the court could do an independent review of Colorados record. Justice Alito asked what would happen if two sets of decisions and records were presented before the court, and Mr. Murray couldnt answer. Justice Alito said he was trying to invite Mr. Murray to grapple with the consequences of the argument youre advancing and the potential unmanageable situation that would arise, and Mr. Murray again asked the court to write an opinion affirming the Colorado courts finding that President Trump engaged in insurrection. Trump Delivers Remarks on Supreme Court Case What about democracy, the right of people to elect the candidate of their choice? Justice Brett Kavanaugh asked, telling Mr. Murray that his position could disenfranchise a great number of voters. Mr. Murray said that Section 3 was intended to protect democracy, such as through preventing President Trump, who he alleged disenfranchised 80 million Americans who'd voted against him, from taking office again. It just doesnt seem like a state call, Justice Amy Coney Barrett said. Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson asked Mr. Murray about the lack of uniformity that this decision could create, and Mr. Murray again answered that the Supreme Court could write an opinion that could create uniformity. I understand that we could resolve it for uniformity, she responded, but asked why he thought that the framers would design a situation that would create an interim of great difference in the meantime. Mr. Murray said their primary concern was that insurrectionists wouldnt hold office, and it was weird to say states cant enforce Section 3 to that effect. Justice Clarence Thomas said he was aware of the many examples of states using Section 3 to bar insurrectionists from state offices in the wake of the Civil War, and asked Mr. Murray to provide cases of states doing the same with national candidates, which he didnt have. Justice Thomas was skeptical that Section 3 was intended to allow the South to block a national candidate. Justice Kavanaugh suggested that Mr. Murray was looking for legal authority in the wrong placethat the 14th Amendment was meant to augment state powers and Section 3 didnt mention state powers at all. Section 5, meanwhile, adds that Congress has authority to enact legislation regarding these matters. Mr. Murray answered that Section 5 doesnt expressly say that only Congress has such powers. Justice Neil Gorsuch asked Mr. Murray whether he held that state authority to enforce federal elections has to come from constitutional authority, and Mr. Murray agreed. Justice Gorsuch then said that in seeking to enforce Section 3, the authority also needs to come from Section 3. Mr. Murray argued that authority from Article 2 would allow states to enforce Section 3, but several justices commented that this could be taken to be adding a qualification to the presidency, which would be unconstitutional. Serious Threat? Colorado Solicitor General Shannon Stevenson argued for the Colorado secretary of state and largely deferred to Mr. Murrays arguments regarding the legality of Colorados actions. Justice Alito asked Ms. Stevenson about the possibility that if Colorado banned President Trump, then other states would retaliate and bar other candidates. Ms. Stevenson replied: I think we have to have faith in our system that people will follow their election policies and processes appropriately, that they will take realistic views of what insurrection is under the 14th Amendment. I dont think that this court should take those threats too seriously. Justice Alito followed up, asking, You dont think thats a serious threat? I think we have to proceed on the assumption that its not a serious threat. I think we have institutions in place to handle those types of allegations, Ms. Stevenson responded. Justice Alito asked, What are those institutions? Our states, there are electoral rules, the administrators who enforce those rules, the courts that will review these decisions, and up to this court to ultimately review that decision, Ms. Stevenson replied. Trump Responds President Trump weighed in on the case outside his Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Florida. Its a very beautiful process, he said, referring to the oral argument. I hope that democracy in this country will continue because, right now, we have a very, very tough situation with all of the radical left ideas, with the weaponization of politics. Theyve weaponized it like its never been weaponized before. Its totally illegal, but they do it anyway. After giving a news conference, he headed to Nevada, where he said he expected to have a very big night as the only major contender participating in the states Republican caucus. Reactions Speaking outside the courthouse, Mr. Murray expressed confidence after the oral argument but acknowledged that he was asking the court to recognize something extraordinary, which is that for the first time in our nations history, a major candidate for president of the United States is ineligible for that office under the Constitution. He added that if his clients lose, we, as the rest of the country should do, would abide by the result. After the oral argument, a group of state secretaries of state criticized the Colorado Supreme Court decision. Its a pretty clear American value that each voter should get to make their decision and thats how we decide who our partys nominees are going to be, Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose said outside of the Supreme Court. It shouldnt be judges, and it shouldnt be secretaries of state that make that decision. It should be the voters. Mr. LaRose and secretaries of state from Missouri, Alabama, Arkansas, Kansas, Idaho, Indiana, Montana, Nebraska, Tennessee, and West Virginia submitted an amicus brief arguing that Section 3 didnt empower people in their positions to disqualify candidates for federal office. Marshfield (Wis.) Clinic Health System is more than doubling the labor and delivery beds at its Marshfield Medical Center-Eau Claire (Wis.) to aid community needs amid recent hospital closures. The hospital's obstetrics unit will expand from eight beds to 20 beds, allowing for an additional 550 yearly births if needed. The hospital is also surveying the need level for added staff, technology, and timing for operating the expanded unit, according to a Feb. 9 Marshfield Clinic Health System news release. Though the release does not directly mention the "hospital closures" in question, the Marshfield Medical Center's expansion efforts come amid closure plans for two Springfield, Ill.-based Hospital Sisters Health System hospitals, Eau Claire, Wis.-based Sacred Heart Hospital and Chippewa Falls, Wis.-based St. Joseph's Hospital, and the regional health centers it operates with Green Bay, Wis.-based Prevea Health. "As other hospitals and health systems are making difficult decisions, we have determined the steps we can take to increase delivery and labor beds for expectant mothers and their families," Brad Groseth, president of MMC-Eau Claire, said in the release. Mr. Groseth said the hospital is wrapping up plans for an expected patient volume increase, particularly with emergency and urgent care. Recruitment efforts for open hospital positions have kicked off, with more job fairs to be scheduled. MMC-Eau Claire's midwifery team has also brought back its services to Marshfield Clinic Chippewa Falls (Wis.) Center, the release said. "Rural healthcare in Wisconsin is at risk without help resolving the funding inadequacies with government-assisted healthcare," Brian Hoerneman, MD, interim CEO of Marshfield Clinic Health System, said in the release. "This presents a difficult challenge for a rural health system as the majority of patients admitted to our hospitals have a governmental payor source." Billings (Mont.) Clinic's contract with Billings Anesthesiology expired Feb. 9, with the health system aiming to create its own fully staffed anesthesiology department, according to Montana's News Leader. The hospital has had a contract with Billings Anesthesiology, one of the largest anesthesiology groups in the state, for decades, but the change is causing concern among staff at Billings Clinic, according to the report. Nurses are worried that losing contracted anesthesia providers will create gaps in services, with the hospital already having difficulty recruiting workers and resources stretched to a maximum, according to the report. In August, Billings Clinic was designated as the state's first Level 1 trauma center by the American College of Surgeons, allowing it to accept more emergency patients from across the region. About $30 million was invested into equipment and upgrades to increase care and improve revenue at a time when the cost of providing care has increased significantly. Billings Clinic leaders swatted away rumors that the hospital is asking surgeons to limit the procedures they schedule and maintained that forming its own anesthesiology department will fill a void in care. "Anesthesia was the only major service line that was not an employee of the clinic," Dusty Richardson, MD, president of medical staff at Billings Clinics, told Montana's News Leader. "Bringing them on as members of the clinic really allows us to plan with them, offer better patient care and better patient safety." A fully staffed department would require between 30 and 40 anesthesiologists, according to the report. The hospital will rely on traveling anesthesiologists and other contracted workers in the meantime. "Billings Clinic is creating a department of anesthesia services similar to all other physician specialties across our organization," a spokesperson for the system told Becker's. "We have partnered with the excellent physicians from Billings Anesthesiology for years. We are encouraging them to apply to continue their relationship with Billings Clinic as members of our new department of anesthesia services." The health system said it has plans in place with additional contracted services to cover anesthesia needs during the transition period. The Health Sector Cybersecurity Coordination Center is warning about a ransomware gang, Akira, that is posing a new threat to the healthcare industry. Akira, which emerged in May 2023, has claimed 81 victims and operates as a ransomware-as-a-service group, according to a Feb. 7 news release from the HC3. Research suggests the group has ties to the now-defunct Conti ransomware group, which was also known for targeting the healthcare industry. Akira primarily relies on ransomware operations and is known for collaborating with fellow cybercriminals for specific attacks and distributing the extorted fees. Additionally, the group engages in double extortion by stealing sensitive data, deploying ransomware and imposing two separate fees. The initial fee is for restoring the encrypted systems, while the second fee guarantees the nondisclosure of stolen data. Akira relies on credential compromise as an infection vector to grant them initial access to their target networks. The group also manages a leak site, where they publicly disclose information about their victims. Hospitals are facing a concerning surge in hacking incidents, as 6 out of every 10 healthcare organizations experienced a ransomware attack in the last year, according to NBC Washington. This is raising the question: How long can organizations take care of patients when their systems are seized? Per the American Hospital Association, numerous healthcare facilities have contingency plans in place to sustain operations without relying on technology for up to 72 hours, and in some cases, as long as 96 hours. But cybersecurity experts told NBC Washington in a Feb. 8 article that this isn't enough. Cybersecurity experts suggest that hospitals should create plans to keep running smoothly even if all their technology is down for at least up to 30 days. But hospitals aren't close to being able to implement those plans, according to John Riggi, the cybersecurity and risk national adviser for the American Hospital Association. "Quite frankly, we're in the beginning stages," he told the publication. Since the beginning of the year, hackers have targeted and forced systems offline at organizations like Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago and Brewer, Maine-based Northern Light Health, causing the organizations to resort to downtime procedures that affect care delivery. Nonprofit patient safety organization ECRI even listed ransomware as a critical threat to the healthcare sector for 2024 in its "Top 10 Health Technology Hazards" report. "These devastating attacks basically take over a hospital network, rendering it incapable of delivering care," Christian Dameff, MD, an emergency physician who also is a hacker and security researcher at University of California San Diego, told the news outlet. Two U.S. senators introduced a bill to combat the growing wave of healthcare cyberattacks. U.S. Sens. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., and Angus King, I-Maine, cosponsored the Strengthening Cybersecurity in Health Care Act, which would require HHS to evaluate its cybersecurity practices and priorities. "Since the pandemic, we have seen a rise in the number of cyberattacks against our healthcare systems," Mr. Rubio said in a Feb. 8 news release. "This legislation aims to reassure the American people by better safeguarding their sensitive information, ensuring peace of mind during these ever-changing times." Mr. King pointed to the Maine health systems that have been victimized by hackers, including Brewer, Maine-based Northern Light Health, which took its EHR offline after a cyberattack Feb. 3. He stated that the legislation would help "help ensure that health institutions have the resources to keep patient data safe." "This threat to America's critical infrastructure is real, and could literally mean the difference between life and death," Mr. King stated. "We must take proactive steps to enhance the cybersecurity of our healthcare and public health sectors." St. Louis-based SSM Health and UnitedHealth Group's Optum ended their administrative partnership around inpatient care management, digital transformation and revenue cycle management after the two organizations were not able to meet "mutually agreed-upon expectations." In an Aug. 21 internal memo shared with Becker's, SSM President and CEO Laura Kaiser told the system's hospital care management and RCM teams that the termination was a difficult decision but was "in the best interest of our patients, families and team members." The partnership was announced in October 2021 and formally began in early 2022. The deal included the hiring of about 2,100 SSM employees by Optum. "We will be working quickly over the next few months to bring our hospital care management and revenue cycle management teams and services back to SSM Health," Ms. Kaiser wrote. "Our hope is to make this process as smooth and as seamless as possible." She said the health system would extend employment offers to Optum employees supporting SSM Health ministries. "I want to acknowledge and apologize for any disruption this transition may cause. Thank you for your patience and continued dedication," Ms. Kaiser wrote. "I am deeply grateful for all you do on behalf of our mission and those we serve together." Hospitals and health systems that have previously outsourced administrative functions to Optum include Minneapolis-based Allina Health; Waukesha, Wis.-based ProHealth Care; Cooperstown, N.Y.-based Bassett Healthcare Network; Greenbrae, Calif.-based MarinHealth; Boulder (Colo.) Community Health; Walnut Creek, Calif.-based John Muir Health; Brewer, Maine-based Northern Light Health; and Owensboro (Ky.) Health. Hospital at home programs cover only acute care patients, but that could change with a new bill introduced in the Senate. Sens. Marco Rubio and Tom Carper introduced the "At Home Observation and Medical Evaluation Services Act" to establish a hospital-at-home pilot program that includes patients able to leave the hospital but who still require observation. "The pandemic taught us that meeting patients where they're at is possible and often preferred," Mr. Carper said in a Feb. 8 news release from Mr. Rubio's office. "That's why I worked to increase and expand access to hospital-level care from the comfort of home." John Couris, DBA, president and CEO of Florida Health Sciences Center, which includes Tampa (Fla.) General Hospital, couldn't agree more. Tampa General's team partnered with Mr. Rubio and Mr. Caper to develop the legislation, informed by Tampa General's successful hospital-at-home program. The endeavor launched a year ago and has treated more than 300 patients. Dr. Couris said the readmission rate among hospital at home patients is 4.5%, compared to 14% for patients cared for in the hospital. The program also has high quality and patient satisfaction scores and the clinicians participating enjoy seeing patients in their homes. "They love it because it has afforded them the opportunity to go back to their roots of why they became doctors and nurses to begin with," Dr. Couris told Becker's. "The hospital at home program allows them to provide more care to patients and in their own spaces to support their complete health and wellness." The bill would establish a program to support treating patients in outpatient observation status in the comfort of their own space while providing them with the same standard of care and continuous monitoring that they receive in the hospital. For those participating hospitals this would allow them to treat patients at home and receive reimbursement for the care they are administering, thus potentially helping to alleviate capacity issues. "It's a smart and timely bill and an example of how the government can work with private industry to build something that improves quality and lowers cost," Dr. Couris said. "I'm proud of our senator and his willingness to do this work. I'm proud of this team because we're part of the organization that is working on this bill. It's imperative that we in industry help lawmakers make the best decisions for their constituencies at the state and federal level." Dr. Couris has worked closely with legislators for years and seen a willingness to innovate together. He also sees these relationships as critical to the comprehensive work in our industry. "We must be part of a bigger conversation and need to come to the table with creative solutions and ideas to change the way healthcare is delivered," Dr. Couris said. "Hospital at home is a great way to do it provide better access to high quality care, improve outcomes and services and and control costs while also improving the morale of nurses and physicians. Now and thanks to our collective efforts, we have a bill in place that can enable the proliferation of the program and serve a population of patients that may not need to be in the hospital." Dr. Couris is focused on disrupting healthcare from within and forging innovative partnerships to solve big challenges. "We need to disrupt ourselves in this industry and we need to get comfortable with failing, and failing fast," he said. "We need to enhance these kinds of partnerships to accelerate change. More of this needs to happen. Lets collaborate, innovate and partner this is what we want and should be doing. Let's drive appropriate disruption into and through the industry to improve quality, lower cost and pass on value to the consumer in a reproducible way." Could Apple's newly launched Vision Pro headset be a new frontier for health systems? San Diego-based Sharp HealthCare is about to find out. The Apple Vision Pro devices, which utilize spatial computing to display 3D graphics and videos over real-life settings, are being tested at Sharp HealthCare's newly created Spatial Computing Center of Excellence. "We invested in a fleet of 30 Vision Pro headsets so that our physicians, nurses, informaticists and software developers could test them out," Dan Exley, vice president of clinical applications, told Becker's. "Why live like the Jetsons at home and live like a Flintstone at the hospital? We're really working to change that to enable access to next-level technology for our clinicians so that they're not stuck living in Flintstone land." With the Spatial Computing Center of Excellence, Sharp clinicians and technologists will brainstorm and implement ways to leverage spatial computing for enhanced effectiveness, productivity, collaboration, education and treatments. These initiatives, according to Tommy Korn, MD, ophthalmologist at Sharp HealthCare, will span a wide spectrum of medical specialties and clinical roles, from the physician's office and operating room, to bedside care and caregiver education. "For most of humanity, we've been living in a two-dimensional world," Dr. Korn, who also serves as chief physician evangelist of mobile-first at Sharp, told Becker's. "Spatial computing will transform medicine, allowing us to have three-dimensional thinking." Dr. Korn emphasized that wearing a headset during patient interactions wouldn't occur, rather, physicians could use the Vision Pro to get a more in-depth understanding of a patient's records before entering an exam room. "Now I'm armed, before I go into the exam room, with all of the information I need organized visually and conveniently," he said. "This allows me to share that information with the patient and not be focused on the computer screen and on archaic technology, bringing back the human experience to care delivery." Other potential uses for the Vision Pro, according to Dr. Korn, include three-dimensional medical imaging, surgery simulations, education and future surgeons being assisted by spatial computing. With the help of the Spatial Computing Center and its partnership with EHR vendor Epic Systems, Mr. Exley said the health system is aiming to bring together different disciplines to help explore all the different healthcare professionals that might benefit from this technology. Lawmakers in California have introduced a bill to create a pilot program that would allow up to 15 community colleges in the state to offer a Bachelor of Science in nursing a measure meant to address limited capacity within nursing schools and expand access to affordable programs. Senate Bill 895, introduced by Sen. Richard Roth, would authorize the Chancellor of the Community Colleges to select up to 15 community college districts in the state that already offer associate degree in nursing programs to also offer BSNs. "While the nursing shortage is a national problem, it is particularly acute here in our state ranking 40th out of 50 states," Mr. Roth said in a Feb. 7 news release. "A key factor contributing to this crisis is that California's nursing school capacity has not been able to keep up with demand. In 2018, more than 85% of hospitals in California reported that the demand for RN's was greater than the available supply a situation that has not improved." Hospitals increasingly prefer and require registered nurses to have a BSN, the senator's office noted when announcing the bill. "With the difference between an ADN and and BSN being only 30 additional units of coursework, several ADN programs are well-positioned to expand their offerings," the senator's office said. Leveraging existing ADN programs is also meant to prevent the need for additional supervised clinical placements. Spine surgery robots have the advantage of assisting physicians with procedure planning and increased precision and can bolster patient recovery. But for ASCs, which are becoming promising landscapes for spine surgery, the cost of the technology might be a barrier. Five spine surgeons discuss considerations ASCs should weigh and how medtech companies could meet them in the middle. Note: Responses were edited for clarity. Brian Fiani, DO. Mendelson Kornblum Orthopedic & Spine Specialists (West Bloomfield, Mich.): Ambulatory surgery centers should consider factors such as cost-effectiveness, patient outcomes, surgeon experience with robotics, and potential for increased efficiency and precision in surgeries. Conducting a cost-benefit analysis and consulting with surgeons and industry experts can help inform the decision-making process. Brian Gantwerker, MD. The Craniospinal Center of Los Angeles: The most important thing to know is what the return on investment will be. Some important questions to ask are: 1. What is the amortized cost and how long will it take to make it back? 2. Will you be doing well-remunerated multilevel fusions (most likely not)? 3. Do you want it to say you have it, or do you really think it will save that much time or improve patient safety to justify its cost? 4. Will you be able to draw new surgeons for having the robot? So far, there is very little additional revenue gained from using a robot in spine surgery. The main savings is in time and potentially the risk for misplaced hardware. However, current navigation systems do a very nice job of guiding the screws. Perhaps there will be a white paper in the future that can gauge safety increase/risk mitigation that can lead to higher reimbursements, but that might be waiting for Godot. Until then, ASCs should think very clearly and cautiously if it is worth it. Stephen Hochschuler, MD. Texas Back Institute (Plano): Most places cannot afford [robots] because of the capital goods and the price of a robot. However, the robot companies could change it and charge in a different way, like a per case rather than having to buy the robot. Make it so it's like any other industry. There are ways for the companies to make money and for the individual to be able to afford it. Vladimir Sinkov, MD. Sinkov Spine (Las Vegas): Robotic-assisted spine surgery allows the minimally invasive instrumented spine procedures to be done with more precision and efficiency while minimizing radiation exposure. Such technology would be a great addition to an ASC to provide high-quality care. The current robotic systems, however, are quite expensive. Such significant purchases can be profitable in a high-volume ASC with several spine surgeons involved in robotic surgery. There are also opportunities to "rent" the robot for lower-volume ASCs. Christian Zimmerman, MD. St. Alphonsus Medical Group and SAHS Neuroscience Institute (Boise, Idaho): All of the usuals apply in regard to advanced technology acquisition like level of training, surgical experience and, most importantly, prospective usage. These are expensive pieces of durable medical equipment and coding/billing/remuneration remain issues of consideration. In an increasingly consolidated landscape, independent orthopedic practices must get creative to stay afloat. Earl Kilbride, MD, an orthopedic surgeon at Austin (Texas) Orthopedic Institute, connected with Becker's to answer, "What's on the horizon for independent orthopedic practices?" Ask Orthopedic Surgeons is a weekly series of questions posed to surgeons around the country about clinical, business and policy issues affecting orthopedic care. We invite all orthopedic surgeon and specialist responses. Next question: How has the anesthesia shortage impacted the orthopedic industry? Please send responses to Riz Hatton at rhatton@beckershealthcare.com by 5 p.m. CST Thursday, Feb. 15. Note: This response has been lightly edited for length and clarity. Dr. Earl Kilbride: We are a four-person single specialty orthopedic practice started in November 2021. All four of the partners are fellowship-trained and came from larger groups. Three of us came from the same group. What appealed to the four of us is the autonomy and fluidity of a smaller, almost boutique, orthopedic practice. However, in a world with private equity, hospital employment and group consolidation, independent orthopedic practices definitely have to be creative. From a purely numbers point of view, even a smaller group such as ours can optimize ancillaries [such as] physical therapy and ASCs. Although controlling overhead is relatively easier in an independent practice, it also becomes a necessity. It is easier to invest in the right staff and administration because of the personalized work environment. They definitely feel part of something and not a number. From the clinical side, we have to ensure patient happiness and good patient outcomes because they are our lifeline. Organically growing volumes is of utmost importance. We also have to be creative in capturing patients via community outreach and partnering with employers. What's different from nonindependent groups is that we personally have to do it ourselves. The provider needs to show face. Creating referral symbiosis with other independent providers is also important. Canadian brand Mary Brown's Chicken is set to open its first UK store in Northern Ireland Canadian fast food chain Mary Browns Chicken has announced it will open its first UK store in Northern Ireland this month, creating 25 new jobs. Mary Browns Chicken, one of the largest Canadian-owned quick serve chicken restaurants, has chosen Lisburn Leisure Park for its first ever UK store. Last summer the chain announced its intention to expand into Northern Ireland, suggesting that multiple restaurants could be on the cards. The brand has now confirmed there will be other openings in Belfast, and across Northern Ireland. Founded in 1969, the Ontario-based chain is one of the fastest growing franchises in Canada. It has around 236 units worldwide, with its new store marking a milestone in the brands expansion into the UK and Ireland. Its part of the brand's ambitious expansion plans which also include new stores in Pakistan and Mexico this year. Read more New barbecue-style restaurant opens in Belfast city centre Hadi Chahin, chief executive of Mary Browns Chicken, said: For over 54 years Canadians have made Mary Browns Chicken their first choice for fresh, hand-cut, hand breaded delicious fried chicken and Taters. We are therefore excited to introduce our legendary fried chicken to the wonderful people of Lisburn. What makes MB Chicken special is our delicious, handcrafted menu and genuine hospitality; we have been a beloved tradition in Canada for generations, and we can't wait to share our passion for delicious, made-from-scratch quality food with our new friends in the UK. The brand has said that its new restaurant will be led by quick-service restaurant franchisor, Amit Abhol. The fast-food chain said it hopes to offer the people if Lisburn a taste of Canada's finest fired chicken. Read more Restaurant at four-star Co Armagh hotel and spa estate gets rebrand The menu is set to feature brand staples, including its signature Big Mary chicken sandwich and its Double Big Mary chicken sandwich. Also on the menu will be crispy chicken tenders, bone-in signature chicken and its Tater Poutine, which combines hand-cut, breaded and fried potatoes smothered in gravy and cheese. MB Chickens locally-sourced signature chicken, hand-cut taters and coleslaw are prepared by hand in-store and are made from quality ingredients, said the fast-food chain. The grand opening of the Lisburn store is scheduled for February 21, with doors opening to the public from 11:00am. The Canadian brand will also be running a promotion on the day of the launch, offering the first 250 customers a free Big Mary chicken sandwich. The new MB Chicken store in Lisburn will open seven days a week from 11am until 11pm. As well as being able to visit the store, customers will be able to order meals for delivery via the MB Chicken app, as well as from Deliveroo, Just Eat and Uber Eats. BUDAPEST, FEBRUARY 9, ARMENPRESS. Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyans official visit to Hungary was highly important for the bilateral relations between the two countries, according to Armenian Ambassador to Hungary Ashot Smbatyan. Khachaturyan was in Hungary February 5-7. He was received by President Katalin Novak. Armenia and Hungary agreed to restore diplomatic relations in 2022, ten years after the ties were severed by the Serzh Sargsyan Administration after Budapest extradited Ramil Safarov, the convicted murderer of Armenian officer Gurgen Margaryan, to Baku. President Vahagn Khachaturyans official visit will play an important role and will be significant for the relations of the two countries. I believe that with the Armenian Presidents official visit, the Hungarian side signaled that the relations between the two countries should become stronger, the Ambassador said. Khachaturyan met with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban on February 7. He also met with Speaker of Parliament Laszlo Kover. Smbatyan said that two agreements in the sector of education and culture were signed during the visit. President Khachaturyan visited the Pazmany Peter Catholic University in Budapest. The Armenian State Pedagogical University and the Pazmany Peter Catholic University, which has a Department of Armenian Studies, signed an agreement on cooperation. Ambassador Smbatyan said that the Pazmany Peter Catholic University has plans on opening a Center of Hungarian Studies in the Armenian university, which was welcomed by the latter. The Ambassador highlighted President Khachaturyans meeting with members of the Armenian community in Hungary. Hungary is one of the two countries in Europe where the Armenian community has a special role and status on a legislative level, the other being Romania. I think that historical commonalities are very deep, and the Armenians of Transylvania have a unique role in the history of Hungary, which Hungary values, the Ambassador said. Smbatyan noted that the Hungarian Wizz Air airline has a very active flight schedule in Armenia. The Armenian government is now working to achieve direct flights between Hungary and Armenia, furthermore not only from Budapest to Yerevan but also to Gyumri. The Armenian side is now working in this direction. But of course, this depends on what decision the airline will make. Direct flights between the two countries would boost tourism, he added. Hungarian President Katalin Novak said at a joint press conference with Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan that Hungary plans to open a consulate in Yerevan. The Armenian Ambassador commended the announcement and said, I think and I hope that there will be a corresponding step from the Armenian side as well. The Armenian Ambassador attached importance to Khachaturyans visit to Hungary also in terms of developing ties with the EU, given that Budapest will assume the EU presidency on July 1, 2024. President Khachaturyan, during the joint press conference, invited the President of Hungary to visit Armenia, and the Hungarian side accepted the invitation. I think that this year we will also see Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyans official visit to Hungary, the Ambassador said, adding that the Hungarian Speaker of Parliament has invited his Armenian counterpart to pay a visit. These bilateral, high-level visits will definitely have a significant role in deepening the relations between the two countries, Ambassador Smbatyan said. Belfast restaurant Stix & Stones has opened a third premises specialising in barbecue-style meat, adding more than 20 new jobs. New venue Stix & Stones Meat Wagon has been launched in Wellington Place, with 20 full-time and part-time roles across its kitchen and front of house, and another four jobs to come in a dedicated takeaway section. . The restaurant said the venue would offer an authentic, diner-style barbecue experience with slow and low-cooked meat in dishes such as house-smoked brisket, baby back ribs, chicken wings, and loaded smash burgers. Stix & Stones launched its first restaurant, specialising in dry-aged steaks cooked on hot stones, in Belfasts Upper Queen Street in 2014. It opened a second location in Ballyhackamore last year. Rory Lee, head chef at Stix & Stones Meat Wagon, said: We're bringing an authentic, high-quality barbecue experience right to the heart of the city, complemented by our own dedicated butchery next door. With the creation of 20 new jobs, and more on the horizon, we want to share our love for great barbecue, as we feel we have created something truly special here for meat lovers across the region to enjoy over and over again. Stix & Stones is owned by John Trainor, also the owner of Balmoral Hotel in Dunmurry. He spoke last year about how rising costs have affected the restaurant industry, with some food items rising by as much as 70% in price. He said: The initial response would be instinctively to put up prices, but we and a lot of restaurateurs are trying not to do that. But it has been an onslaught out there. The news that heater manufacturer Glen Dimplexs Portadown site is to be shut down next year with the loss of 200 jobs has been described as devastating for workers and the local economy. Unions are seeking an urgent meeting with the management of manufacturer Glen Dimplex after the companys announcement that work will be shifting to Lithuania. Founded by Irish businessman Martin Naughton, Glen Dimplex will make 300 redundancies Ireland-wide between late 2024 and 2026, it said today. Its cutting site numbers from five sites to three, with the Portadown operation closing down, though it said its investing heavily in other sites, including its Newry facility. In a statement, Glen Dimplex said it will invest around 25m in its Newry site, turning it into a centre for the manufacture of zero carbon, renewable heating solutions including heat pumps. But it added: Panel and storage heating manufacturing will transfer from the groups sites in Newry and Portadown to its existing manufacturing site in Lithuania. "Under this proposal, the Portadown site will close, most likely in 2025, with some staff redeploying to Newry whose operations will also evolve significantly. A spokesperson added: Subject to the outcome of a staff consultation process, up to 300 net redundancies are expected between late 2024 and 2026. "Approximately two thirds of these losses will be in Northern Ireland and one third in Republic of Ireland and similarly, the new roles created will reflect the same spilt. Redundancies are not expected for at least six months. Glen Dimplex will now start a consultation process with staff regarding its proposals. SIPTU organiser Alan Clark has requested an urgent meeting with management at the company to discuss fully what it has described as its restructuring plan and evaluate the impact it will have on our members. Glen Dimplex is an Irish company and its operations play an important role in the local communities in which they are based. Any loss of employment will have a detrimental impact not only on the workers directly affected and their families but also the local economy, he said. Unite the union regional officer Neil Moore said: Workers were brought together to hear this mornings announcement without any warning. Many have been employed at the site for decades and the impact on them will be devastating. "Shutting this factory will strike hard at the economy throughout the Portadown area." Read more New expert sought for Casement Park rebuild ahead of Euro 2028 DUP MP for the area Carla Lockhart said: This is a devastating blow for those who today received notification of redundancy. With the potential of 200 job losses it will undoubtedly have a major impact on many local families and indeed the local economy. Glen Dimplex has been part of the fabric of the Portadown area for many years and is known internationally for is expertise in heating, ventilation, flame, precision cooling and customer appliances. Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Margaret Tinsley, said: Todays announcement by Glen Dimplex of the proposed plans to close the Portadown site over the next two years as part of their reorganisation, will be devastating news for employees and their families. Kieran Donoghue, chief executive of economic development agency Invest NI, said: The news of Glen Dimplexs plans to wind down its facility in Portadown over the next two years will be deeply upsetting for staff. "We will work with the company and those affected to identify alternative employment opportunities and to pursue reskilling opportunities as appropriate. "We will also work closely with the Department for the Economy and the Department for Communities to support the employees impacted by this decision. The company has been clear that the decision to consolidate its operations in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland is for commercial reasons. "This restructuring will support its ultimate growth plans and potentially see the firm expand its business in Northern Ireland out of its second site in Newry. We will continue to work with the company to capture opportunities for further investment and job creation at this facility. The company said the site closures were the result of a transition to focus on low carbon electric heating and ventilation solutions for homes and businesses. It said it would invest 50m in new and upgraded facilities as existing plants reach end of life, with 40m invested island-wide. And while it said overall employment would increase by over 200 roles by 2029, there would be job losses in the meantime. It said employee numbers on the island of Ireland would reach 1,000 staff in five years, a rise of 20%. At the moment, Glen Dimplex employs over 8,000 people globally and 800 here. The group has manufacturing locations in Newry and Portadown, two sites in Dunleer and a sales and distribution operation in Cloghran near Dublin Airport. One of the Dunleer sites is to close as manufacture of flame products moves from Dunleer to China. The company said: Employees at all Glen Dimplex sites were briefed today about the proposed reorganisation and investment programme that will be implemented on a phased basis from late 2024 through 2026. "There will be no redundancies as part of the planned reorganisation of operations for at least six months. Management will work with employee representatives, union groups and training agencies to ensure the planned transitions are as seamless as possible, and that appropriate outplacement and training supports are provided. Fergal Leamy, Glen Dimplex Group CEO, said: Our proposed 50m investment will reorientate our operations on this island so that they are environmentally and economically sustainable and a major driving force in the next chapter of growth at Glen Dimplex. "Our transition will bring significant change and challenge in the near term but also phenomenal opportunities for the next generation and beyond. One thing is clear; the status quo is not an option as consumer demand and public policy chart course for zero carbon future. Co Tyrone comedian known for his trademark drawl looking forward to next chapter in life Derry Girls star Kevin McAleer has described his impending retirement as a natural ending. The Co Tyrone comedians deadpan, surrealist style made him a household name and he toured throughout Ireland in the 1990s and 2000s. His role as the rambling Uncle Colm on Derry Girls brought him to a new generation, with his character famously helping the girls disentangle themselves from a run-in with the law by boring Liam Neesons RUC officer into submission. Despite his recent success on television, he has decided to retire from stand-up. Speaking to the Ulster Herald, Mr McAleer said he was ready to step away from the comedy circuit, adding: It feels like a natural ending. He is excited for the next chapter in his life and hopes to take up a few hobbies. Ive been doing stand-up for over 40 years. Its time for something new, Mr McAleer said. He also described his delight at appearing in Derry Girls, written by Lisa McGee, It was such a great experience playing Uncle Colm, he recalled. I got to work with fantastic actors in the main cast, including Liam Neeson. Mr McAleer grew up on a small farm in Drumnakilly, just outside Omagh, and his rural background informed many of his early routines, which he performed in his trademark drawl. He previously told this newspaper many people assumed he was as boring as his character. Im not boring Uncle Colm. A lot of people come up to me and congratulate me on how well I do the boring Uncle Colm character, and I have to explain to them that its acting, the 67-year-old explained. Mr McAleer married his wife, Valerie, in 1997. They have three grown-up children together, Florence and twins Louis and Josiah. While he has not totally ruled out returning to the industry in the future, he is ready to put his feet up for now. I will never say never again... but it does feel like a definitive end, he said. McAleer is unlikely to go on any wild adventures during his retirement he previously described himself as a quiet farmer at heart and admitted he was kind of allergic to social media. He joked: If I had my own way, I wouldnt do anything else with my day. It [social media] would take over my day. Id be sitting there all day to see if anyone left a comment. I dont have a smartphone, Ive got a very old-fashioned 10 phone. For the same reason, if I had a smartphone, Id be looking all day. For his final performances, Mr McAleer will be attempting to condense 40 years of his greatest hits into 90 minutes. It may force him to break the habit of a lifetime and talk faster. Kevin McAleer plays farewell shows at the Vicar Street Theatre in Dublin on April 11 and in Belfasts Mandela Hall on April 21 Jon Bon Jovi has joked that his early song lyrics were not inspired by breaking up with people all the time like US megastar Taylor Swift. The US rock star, 61, appeared alongside filmmaker Gotham Chopra at the Television Critics Association (TCA) winter press tour in Los Angeles, ahead of the UK premiere of his new documentary Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story, which will air on Disney+ later this year. Bon Jovi, who said not in his wildest craziest dream did he expect to have had a 40-year career, was named MusiCares Person of the Year at a gala last week, attended by stars including Bruce Springsteen, who features in the four-part documentary series. When asked about his music writing process, Bon Jovi said: Thats been the magic of 40 years of career. At 20, when I got a record deal, I didnt have a lot else to write about other than high school, and I didnt break up with people like Taylor (Swift) did all the time. But as I grew in public, the evolution happened, and in order to grow with your public I think you have to tell the truth and not pretend to be something you are not, and youre only going to get better at what you do. It comes after Swift, who is well known for writing songs about her ex-boyfriends, announced the release date for her new album The Tortured Poets Department, with fans speculating some songs could relate to her English ex-boyfriend Joe Alwyn. During the interview Bon Jovi said he is 19 and a half months into recovery after his vocal cord surgery, and was performing for the first time in public at the MusiCares gala last week. The series follows the band from February 2022 as they chart their future while Bon Jovi navigates a vocal injury, and as they celebrate 40 years in the industry. The ambiguity of the (documentary) title is also (about) what does the future hold for me and for my band, and that is a health-related question, he said. Jon Bon Jovi (Ian West/PA) Although Im making great strides, we face something I didnt expect which is this vocal cord surgery. Although I am doing very well and sang for the first time in public just the other night, so Im feeling good, when we shot this there was no definitive answer. If I cant go out and do two and a half hours four night a week thank you, goodnight. He later said his craft had been taken from him, but the morning after his first public performance marked the first time I woke up without multiple voices in my head, it was just me and that was the best thing. Bon Jovi and Chopra also said the documentary crew did not get a chance to interview band mate Alec John Such before his death in June 2022. Alec wasnt unfortunately interviewed, but his passing was dramatic and hard on all of us because it was the first time we faced mortality, one of us passed, Bon Jovi said. It wasnt your father or your grandfather or somebody you knew, it was one of the guys. So these are all things that come with growing up in public. Bon Jovi ended by saying music has always affected culture at large and artists have the opportunity to reflect the world around them if they choose to. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky (Juan Medina/PA) Weve been blessed to have had songs that resonate across borders and languages, and decades and now generations of people, he said. I received a two-page handwritten long-form letter from President (Volodymyr) Zelensky telling me that Its My Life went to the people of Ukraine. I was writing that coming from who and where I was at that time, and to realise the effect that some of these songs have had on cultures is humbling. Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story will premiere in the UK on Disney+ later this year. A Belfast law firm has announced they will be taking legal action against Business and Trade Secretary, Kemi Badenoch, on behalf of Irish language rap group, Kneecap. The news follows the west Belfast band's accusations that the government has made efforts to "silence" them after it blocked a British Phonographic Industry (BPI) funding award. The trio revealed that they had been blocked from getting a 15,000 grant, which they said was approved by an independent selection board, but was then "overruled" by the government. Kemi Badenoch's spokesperson said they did not want to hand taxpayers' money "to people that oppose the United Kingdom itself". Taking to X/Twitter on Friday afternoon, Phoenix Law stated: We have been instructed by @KNEECAPCEOL in respect of the recent decision by the Sec of State. "She has today been put on notice that her decision is unlawful, and legal proceedings will follow." Lawyers Darragh Mackin and Ronan Lavery will act for Kneecap, alongside former Derry GAA star and barrister, Joe Brolly. The business secretarys department has been approached by this newspaper for further comment regarding the new legal action. We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review your details and accept them to load the content SDLP leader Colum Eastwood has also submitted questions to Ms Badenoch following her decision to defund Kneecap under the Music Export Growth Scheme. Mr Eastwood said that a comment from a department spokesperson claiming that funding should not be awarded to groups who oppose the UK requires urgent clarification and may not comply with the Governments obligation to exercise power on the basis of parity of esteem for communities in Northern Ireland. The Foyle MP said: It is highly irregular for a Secretary of State to intervene to overturn the decision of an independent assessment board to award funding to an artist on the basis of their political aspirations. It would be unacceptable if the British Government had instituted a policy of defunding groups because they support Irish Unity, Scottish Independence, Welsh Independence or any other change to the constitutional status quo. Worse, in the context of Northern Ireland it may represent a breach of the British Governments obligations under the treaty signed after the Good Friday Agreement which includes a commitment to exercise power on the basis of parity of esteem between communities in the North. Art is meant to be challenging. You dont have to agree with an artist or group to understand the importance of funding creators who challenge the status quo and the establishment. "I have submitted a number of Parliamentary Questions to establish what has happened here. If there has been a change of funding policy to make that more difficult then Kemi Badenoch needs to come clean about it. Kneecap: Critics rave over film but unionists rage over its funding Meanwhile, Ian Paisley has written to Ms Badenoch in support of her decision to defund Kneecap. It was revealed on the BBCs Nolan Show on Friday morning that the DUP MP had written to Ms Badenoch to ask that the group not receive the funding. Kneecap's representatives had applied for the funding under the Music Export Growth Scheme (MEGS), a government-backed initiative which offers grants of up to 50,000 to UK-registered music companies to promote artists in overseas markets. The MEGS grant applications are considered by an independent panel from the British Phonographic Industry (BPI), but the scheme is overseen by the Department for Business and Trade and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. Kneecap In a statement, the BPI said it was "disappointed at the government's decision not to approve the grant to Kneecap but clarified that it was the governments decision alone to decline the application. "While it is for government to speak to its rationale for making this particular decision, we firmly believe in the importance of freedom of expression, including artistic expression, and look forward to discussing further with government how any decisions involving potentially controversial matters will be handled in future," a spokesperson for BPI added. On Thursday, Ms Badenoch announced grants of 1.6m via the MEGs scheme to "boost British music exports". In a statement, the Cabinet minister said: "I congratulate the successful acts and look forward to seeing them bang the drum for Britain across the globe." A spokesperson for the Business and Trade Secretary said: We fully support freedom of speech, but its hardly surprising that we dont want to hand out UK taxpayers money to people that oppose the United Kingdom itself. Next month, the group is set to go on tour in the US and Canada, following a sold out North American tour last autumn. It comes after their success at the recent Sundance Film Festival, where they premiered their self-titled film and won the audience award at the prestigious event. Meanwhile on Thursday the same day the band were defunded another Lego set was released of the band. Irish company Dublin Bricks released the set, entitled Kneecap Live, which shows the three band members on stage. Last year, the company released their first Kneecap set where the three members were displayed in front of a flaming police Land Rover and included a petrol bomb accessory - which sold out in a matter of days. Although not associated with Lego itself, Dublin Bricks only uses official parts in builds and sets. The DUP and Ian Paisley has been approached for comment. The Duke of Sussex is now involved in three High Court cases (Aaron Chown/PA) The Duke of Sussex has settled the remainder of his claim against the publisher of the Daily Mirror in the latest stage of multiple High Court legal battles with newspaper publishers. Mr Justice Fancourt ruled in December last year that Mirror Group Newspapers (MGN) used unlawful information gathering in 15 articles about the duke after a High Court trial, and awarded Harry 140,600 in damages. On Friday, Harrys barrister, David Sherborne, told the court that MGN had agreed on an offer to settle the claim, with the publisher to pay a substantial additional sum by way of damages and Harrys legal costs. In January this year, the duke also withdrew a claim against Associated Newspapers Limited (ANL) over a February 2022 article about his legal challenge against the Home Office, following a decision to change his publicly funded security arrangements when visiting the UK. This now means that Harry is involved in three cases at the High Court, including a phone hacking case against News Group Newspapers (NGN). The Duke of Sussexs barrister, David Sherborne (James Manning/PA) Here is an overview of the cases: Unlawful information-gathering allegations against ANL Harry is one of seven high-profile people, including Sir Elton John and Baroness Lawrence of Clarendon, bringing legal action against the publisher of the Daily Mail over allegations it carried out or commissioned unlawful information-gathering. The firmly denied allegations against ANL include the hiring of private investigators to place listening devices inside cars, the blagging of private records and the accessing and recording of private phone conversations. At a preliminary hearing in March, the publisher asked a judge to rule in its favour without a trial, arguing the legal challenges against it were brought far too late. The duke made a surprise appearance at the Royal Courts of Justice in London for the March proceedings, where his lawyers argued that those bringing legal action were thrown off the scent and not aware of being targeted, having believed categorical denials from ANL over any involvement in unlawful activity. Mr Justice Nicklin ruled in November that the publisher had failed to deliver a knockout blow to the early stage legal challenges, allowing them to continue. The Duke of Sussex made a surprise appearance for the first hearing in his claim against Associated Newspapers over alleged unlawful information gathering (James Manning/PA) The dukes lawyers are planning to ask ministers for permission to use confidential documents from the Leveson Inquiry into press standards after the judge ruled they could not be used while restrictions were in place. A further case management hearing may be held in early March this year. Allegations of unlawful information-gathering at NGN Harry and actor Hugh Grant are suing NGN, publisher of The Sun and the now-defunct News Of The World, over alleged unlawful information-gathering. The duke alleges he was targeted by journalists and private investigators working for the papers. At a preliminary hearing in April, the publisher asked a judge to throw out his and Mr Grants claim, arguing they were brought too late. Mr Justice Fancourt later ruled that Harry and the actors claims could go to trial, except for any allegations relating to phone hacking. The judge also refused to allow the duke to rely on an alleged secret agreement between the royal family and senior executives working for media mogul Rupert Murdoch as part of his claim. Harrys lawyers had argued that NGNs challenge to his claim was an attempt to go behind the alleged agreement, which they said had prevented him from bringing his case. NGN, which denies any unlawful activity took place at The Sun, disputed such an agreement was in place. Harrys claim is currently set to go to trial in January 2025. Challenge against the Home Office over UK security arrangements The High Court recently heard Harrys claim against the Home Office over security arrangements for himself and his family when they are in the UK. The Duke of Sussex is now involved in four High Court cases (Jordan Pettitt/PA) The duke is challenging a February 2020 decision of the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (Ravec), which falls under the remit of the department, after being told he would no longer be given the same degree of personal protective security when visiting. Harrys lawyers say he was singled out and treated less favourably in the decision, arguing a failure to carry out a risk analysis and fully consider the impact of a successful attack on him meant the approach to his protection was unlawful and unfair. The court heard the duke believes his children cannot feel at home in the UK if it is not possible to keep them safe there. The Home Office says Ravec was entitled to reach the decision it did, which is that Harrys security arrangements will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Mr Justice Lane will give his ruling over the claim at a later date. A couple accused of running a human trafficking and prostitution racket in the Greater Belfast area have failed in a legal bid to be allowed to spend Valentines Day together. Lawyers for Flortina Ciurar, 35, and her 26-year-old boyfriend Petru Balogh said they wanted to share quality time on the most romantic day of the year. But a judge ruled that a complete prohibition on any contact between the pair while on bail must remain in place. Ciurar and Balogh, both of Hugh Street in south Belfast, deny charges of controlling prostitution for gain, brothel keeping, human trafficking and money laundering. Background Inquiries began in June 2022 after a woman informed police she had fled from the defendants. She claimed to have been lured to Northern Ireland from Romania with the bogus offer of a job working for Amazon. Balogh allegedly paid for her flight and collected her from the airport. On arrival, however, the woman was told that she would be working as a prostitute and brought to an address in south Belfast to carry out sex work in order to repay her debt, prosecutors told a previous court. Police mounted a surveillance operation and located two more suspected prostitutes at the property. Financial inquiries revealed that large sums of money had passed through a bank account said to be linked to Ciurar and controlled by her partner, it was claimed. They also allegedly paid for several adverts on adult websites. Balogh and Ciurar have been on bail since last August under strict orders not to contact each other. They have already been refused permission to be together over the Christmas period. Read more Vietnamese brothers deny involvement in cannabis factory on Co Down farm Todays application to vary bail conditions At Belfast Magistrates Court today, they mounted a further joint application to vary the no-contact terms for a get together next week. Ciurars barrister, Sean OHare, said she and Balogh simply wanted to be allowed to meet on Valentines Day. He described it as the most special and romantic day of the year for those in a relationship and stressed his client has no other network of support in Belfast. They would even agree to meet in a police station for a couple of hours, if that would ease concerns, Mr OHare added. Opposing the application, an investigating detective revealed that three new witnesses have come forward in Romania. District Judge Steven Keown denied the defendants bid to be allowed to meet up, on the basis that the prohibition remains necessary and appropriate. He said: That situation does not change for a period of a couple of hours, even on Valentines Day. 52-year-old Maymole Jose, who admitted causing the death of her friend by dangerous driving, walked free from court today. Image: Pacemaker A grieving widowers plea of mercy has spared a nurse who caused the death of her best friend in an accident from prison. Theatre nurse Maymole Jose admitted causing the death of Shymol Thomas by dangerous driving after a high-speed crash on a dual carriageway. On Friday she walked free from court with a suspended sentence. Though Judge Alistair Devlin imposed an 18-month prison sentence on Jose (52), he cited exceptional factors which justified him suspending it for two years. The Antrim Crown Court judge noted the gracious and forgiving attitude shown by Mrs Thomass family, and the medical needs of Jose's son, who needs round-the-clock care. The court heard how Mrs Thomas widower had provided a moving statement imploring Judge Devlin not to jail Jose. Quoting from the statement, the judge said: She [Jose] has to live with not just the memory of the loss, but also the fact that her best friend is no longer alive. We are all suffering but we support each other day after day to get through the pain and the turmoil. She [Jose] has already been sentenced with regard to her own injuries and the death of Shymol. The judge added: Ultimately, taking those factors into account, along with other factors such as strong personal mitigation, this court is, on balance, persuaded that the requisite degree of exceptionality has been met. In May last year, Jose, from Greenvale Park Glen in Antrim, admitted causing the death of Mrs Thomas (37) by driving dangerously on the Crankill Road in Ballymena on June 21, 2019. The mother-of-three also admitted causing grievous bodily injury to her 15-year-old son and his friend, also by dangerous driving. Judge Devlin outlined how Jose had been taking the boys to a Duke of Edinburgh exercise and had asked her best friend to come along for company when the accident happened. Driving her Toyota Yaris northwards towards Ballymoney along the Crankill Road, Jose missed a turn-off, so used a gap in the central reservation to either try to turn right or perform a U-turn. Judge Devlin told the court that, as she did so, Jose failed to see a VW Passat coming the other way and that, with the Yaris in the inside lane of the southbound carriageway, the VW struck the passenger side of the Yaris, causing both vehicles to spin before coming to rest. The four people in the Yaris suffered serious injuries, said Judge Devlin, adding that Mrs Thomas died at the scene as a result of her injuries, while the boys in the back each sustained fractures to their left legs and pelvis. Jose herself sustained life-threatening injuries, including a fractured skull, a ruptured spleen, a collapsed lung, fractures to her spine, a pulmonary embolism and damage to her thoracic artery, as well as a stroke. Turning to the mechanics of the crash, Judge Devlin said the airbag module of the Yaris had provided vital evidence which demonstrated that, having missed her turn-off, Jose braked so heavily she created a force of 0.5G before turning through the gap in the central reservation without stopping. Judge Devlin said it was clear the VW would have been perfectly visible if she had lookedand that was a major failing on her part in that the other car was there to be seen. He said that while the only aggravating feature he could see in the crash was the fact there was more than one victim, there was also strong personal mitigation attached to the case and the defendant, including her guilty plea, clear record and working as a nurse in Northern Ireland since 2006 whereby she has provided an extensive amount of public service. Describing statements from Mrs Thomas's family as gracious and forgiving, Judge Devlin said the other factor he had to take into account was the medical evidence regarding Joses oldest son and his difficulties with his parents providing around the clock care. An immediate custodial sentence for his mother would undoubtedly have adverse consequences for him, he said, adding that only in exceptional cases would a defendant not be jailed. In addition to the suspended sentence, he banned Jose from driving for three years. Former Lagan College welfare officer Neil Beckett at Laganside Court in June. (Pic Colm Lenaghan) A school welfare officer appeared in court on Friday on a new charge of raping a teenage girl. Neil Beckett is also accused of fresh counts of grooming the alleged victim and sexual activity with a child while in a position of trust. The 43-year-old worked as a health and wellbeing officer at Lagan College in south Belfast. Beckett, of Kilmore Village in Downpatrick, Co Down, is already awaiting Crown Court trial for alleged sexual assaults on 11 other girls. Those charges relate to suspected incidents on dates between September 2018 and February 2023. He is currently on bail under conditions which include a prohibition on contacting staff at the school in relation to that case. Beckett returned to Belfast Magistrates Court on Friday to face five new charges. He is accused of rape, sexual assault by penetration, meeting a child following sexual grooming and two counts of sexual activity with a child by a person while in a position of trust. All five charges relate to the same complainant and cover dates between 2014 and 2016. It is understood that these allegations are not connected to his role at Lagan College, where he is currently suspended from duties. When the charges were formally put to him Beckett confirmed his understanding, replying simply: I do. No further details about the alleged offences were disclosed during a hearing which lasted less than two minutes. However, it was revealed that attempts are being made to have the new charges joined in with the first case. Case preparation is fast-tracking this through to go into the Crown Court trial, a prosecution lawyer said. Adjourning proceedings for two weeks, District Judge Stephen Keown told both sides: Lets see if we can get a preliminary enquiry done. Stormont Education Minister Paul Givan speaks to staff and students at Rathmore Grammar School in south Belfast, during his first official visit in the role (Pic: Rebecca Black/PA Wire) The new DUP Education Minister has thrown down the gauntlet to Sinn Feins Finance Minister, saying that the way schools in Northern Ireland have been funded in the past simply will not cut it in the future. Paul Givan was once best known as the Communities Minister who cut an Irish language bursary scheme by 55,000 just before Christmas 2016. But today his first port of call was Rathmore, a Catholic grammar school in Finaghy, Belfast, followed by Glenwood Primary on the Shankill. Mr Givan was the surprise choice of the DUP for the education portfolio during Saturdays restoration of the Assembly, and said first on his agenda will be meeting with teaching unions in a bid to end the ongoing teacher dispute over pay. He said the finance must be there to match his ambition across education. The unions desire to support their members, whether they are teachers or support staff, is the same desire that I have. They should be recognised for the job that they do, he said. We have superb teachers in Northern Ireland and that has to be reflected in the terms and conditions that they have. That is a priority. We need to resolve the industrial action, we need to resolve the action short of strike, which does have a detrimental impact upon schools being able to deliver for children and young people I want to see the resolution to that very quickly, to reach an outcome where they are properly recognised in their terms and conditions, and then schools are able to get on with teaching children. Paul Givan with to staff and students at Rathmore Grammar School Mr Givan said there was now a need for his colleagues on the NI Executive to invest in the future. Of course there are challenges there, but theres also great opportunity, he said. The requirements are significant. How this department has been historically funded simply will not cut it. It will not come anywhere near what is required. That task is for my colleagues in the Executive to support me in the vision that I have for the Department of Education and the school estate and to deliver on that. The DUP choose the education brief as their first pick of the ministerial portfolios last Saturday instead of finance. Sinn Fein then nominated Caoimhe Archibald to serve as Finance Minister. I suppose having been the health spokesperson for the party, that was the area I had been working in, he said. But from previous experience Ive always known the departmental picks are sometimes decided 24 hours beforehand. Ultimately, Jeffrey wanted education. Its the next generation. I agreed with him and its a privilege for me to be in the position now. Its now with the Finance Minister who will bring forward a paper which will be subject to agreement of the Executive. Ministers cant act unilaterally in that respect. I have full confidence that the Finance Minister wants to support education system in Northern Ireland. Getting the next generation ready for the future, investing in them, thats a priority for everybody. That crosses across every political party and it is blind to any differences there are within our country, constitutional issues and so on. We all want the best for our children. Stormont Education Minister Paul Givan at Rathmore Grammar School And with mentions of border polls from the new First Minister, Mr Givan said he will remain professional and concentrate on getting on with the job in hand. It will not come as a surprise that Michelle ONeill is a republican and Paul Givan is a unionist, he said. Everyone knows what our constitutional positions are. What I do think though is that the public expect us to get on with the day to day issues and not be fixated on the question of border polls. My focus is on delivering on the issues that relate to education. My relationships in politics have always been professional, he added. Thats how Ive operated in the past and thats how Ill do it in the future as well. We have a job of work to do and well do it professionally. Lets get on with doing that job. YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 9, ARMENPRESS. Armenia has reiterated its readiness to resume negotiations with Azerbaijan under EU mediation, Member of Parliament representing Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyans Civil Contract Party Artur Hovhannisyan has said. The MP, however, emphasized that there is no clarity at this moment on the resumption of talks. Naturally, the Republic of Armenia also favors the resumption of the talks in that format because the Armenian agendas priority is the establishment of peace in the region, Hovhannisyan said. Azerbaijan has recently refused to participate in EU and US mediated talks with Armenia, despite having reached several agreements under EU mediation in the past. However, on February 8, President of the European Council Charles Michel said on X that he called Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to congratulate him on his re-election and that he welcomes Azerbaijans commitment to take part in trilateral talks in Brussels. Health Minister Robin Swann is reinstating 85k funding to the Northern Ireland Children's Hospice in Belfast. Liam McBurney/PA Wire Health Minister Robin Swann has reinstated 85,000 in funding that had been cut from the Northern Ireland Children's Hospice. However, he acknowledged it will not be enough to prevent a reduction in some services at the facility. The hospice in north Belfast provides specialist palliative care for more than 350 babies, children and their families annually. Earlier this week, it emerged the facility would have to reduce bed capacity due to governmental funding cuts. This reduction involved the ending last summer of an additional but temporary annual payment of 170,000. This decision was notified to the hospice in June 2023 and took effect last September resulting in an 85,000 reduction in this financial year. But, in one of his first acts since returning as Health Minister, Mr Swann said he would reinstate the 85,000 funding for this year. I recognise and applaud the vital work of the NI Childrens Hospice (NICH) and all hospices in Northern Ireland, he said. As requested by me, Department of Health officials have been engaged in detailed discussions this week, including engagement with NI Hospice. It is clear to me that the financial pressures facing NI Childrens Hospice go much deeper than any reduction of departmental support. Mr Swann said that the Department of Health will deliver further funding of 1.6m directly to the charity this year, including a 420,000 component which has not been recurrent, meaning it would have to be approved each year. Health Minister Robin Swann I can confirm that, going forward, this will be made recurrent, giving the hospice greater certainty, Mr Swann said. But he added: Regrettably, the NICH has advised my department that the restoration of the full 170,000 for this year will not lead to the reversal of the service reduction made public this week. Mr Swann warned the childrens hospice and its NI Hospice parent body will need to develop longer-term solutions. He said that due to the current absence of a budget for next year, and the well-documented financial uncertainties and challenges for government, my department is at the limit of what it can do right now. A spokesperson for the Children's Hospice said it welcomed the minister's announcement. However they added: "Because of the many intricate issues the minister has addressed in his response we need time to analyse his proposals before we can provide a comprehensive response." The service has said it might reduce capacity from seven beds week-round to six beds Monday-Friday and three at the weekend. Responding to the announcement, Sinn Feins health spokesperson Liz Kimmins said there must be a long-term solution to support the vital work of the hospice. DUP MLA Phillip Brett branded Mr Swanns announcement totally inadequate. The 85,000 announced by the Health Minister will not reverse any potential cuts in service and the hospice has made this very clear directly to the department on a number of occasions, Mr Brett said. He also hit out at the timing of the statement last night, adding: The announcement will not be allowed to go without question and I will be raising this in the Assembly on Monday. There was a time when the palace not only hid royal diagnoses from the public, but even from the patient themselves. Harry Mount reveals how the royal household is determined to do things differently following the announcement King Charles is being treated for cancer It was 72 years ago, on February 6 1952, when the nation heard that George VI had died at Sandringham. He had been suffering from lung cancer, and the sad news came as a great shock to the country. Although the king had been ill for several years, the full facts of his condition had been kept secret from his subjects. His last public appearance had been the previous Thursday at a London airport as he bade farewell to Princess Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh as they set off on their Commonwealth tour. When the announcement from Sandringham came at 10.45am a week later, it simply said: The King, who retired to rest last night in his usual health, passed peacefully away in his sleep early this morning. How different the revelation of Charles IIIs illness has been. King Charles III and Queen Camilla depart The London Clinic in central London Buckingham Palace was first extremely candid with the revelation of his diagnosis of and successful treatment for an enlarged prostate. Then came the devastating news that he is now being treated for cancer. While the palace has not revealed precisely what form of cancer the King has been suffering from, it did confirm the fact that it isnt prostate cancer and that the condition had been discovered during his treatment. Many expect further details to emerge as precise information about his condition becomes clearer. This is astonishingly open compared to official revelations of earlier monarchs illnesses. And the news has already as the King intended led to greater awareness among the public. Online searches into prostate conditions have surged since the Kings condition was announced. Any further revelations will raise similar awareness, and the palace will want to be confident systems are in place to support enquiries, as they are aware of how a vacuum of information can cause extra concern. Euphemism and secrecy were once the order of the day in royal medical circles. When George VI had his left lung removed in September 1951, after smoking heavily for years, the official announcement was that he was suffering from structural abnormalities in fact, a carcinoma. It wasnt just the public who were kept in the dark. Even the King wasnt given the full facts. When he died in 1952, it was claimed that he had died from coronary thrombosis, caused by vascular disease. In fact, it was more likely as a result of his lung cancer. We are now witnessing a generational shift in how the royal family announce their illnesses. The Duchess of York has just revealed she has skin cancer, shortly after having a mastectomy. Both Prince Michael and Princess Michael of Kent have openly said they have recovered from cancer. Even though Queen Elizabeth II died as recently as September 2022, she belonged to an earlier way of doing things. The Queen Mother Gyles Brandreth revealed that she was suffering from myeloma, a type of bone cancer. But, still, the official cause of death was the catch-all euphemism, old age. The Queen Mother lived to the extraordinary age of 101. She, too, had suffered from cancer, although then it wasnt revealed to the world. In 1966, a tumour was removed from her colon. In 1984, a tumour was removed from her breast. The most remarkable euphemism came with the death of George V at Sandringham in 1936. As the king lay dying, an official statement was released, saying, The Kings life is moving peacefully towards its close. In fact, as was later revealed in his doctor Lord Dawsons diaries, the king had been injected with a lethal dose of morphine and cocaine to relieve his pain. Dawson also hastened the kings death to ensure it was announced in the morning edition of The Times, rather than less appropriate evening journals. A doctor was crucial, too, in negotiating Henry VIIIs journey from marriage to marriage. One of his doctors, Dr William Butts, declared that Henry VIII hadnt had sex with Anne of Cleves, allowing their marriage to be annulled. Still, to satisfy the king, Butts also had to testify that the king was able to do the act with others, but not with her. The early royal doctors were expected to keep the condition of their charges almost entirely secret. In the days when monarchs were all-powerful, their illness caused even greater consternation among the people than today, and monarchs were complicit in this secrecy. George II, said one of his courtiers, would get out of his bed, choking with a sore throat, and in a high fever, only to dress and have a levee [reception], and in five minutes undress and return to his bed. By pretending to be well, he hoped to keep the nation reassured. The most famous royal patient of all was poor Mad King George III, said to have suffered from bipolar disorder. In those days, over 200 years ago, no one really understood his complaint except for one heroic man, Dr Francis Willis, a Lincolnshire asylum keeper, who encouraged George III to rest and exercise. In turn, the grand royal doctors, jealous of Williss close relationship with the king, castigated him and called him the mad doctor. For all the luxury of royal medicine, it was, like all medicine, fairly primitive in its earliest stages. King George VI In 1817, Princess Charlotte, the Prince Regents daughter and heir presumptive to the throne, died in childbirth, aged only 21, thanks to the incompetent fumbling of the royal doctor, Sir Richard Croft. Lucy Worsley says: During the course of a 48-hour labour, Croft shilly-shallied about, using the forceps to pull the baby out. Valuable time was lost, the child died and, a few hours later, so did the mother. At a stroke, two generations of the royal family were wiped out. A year later, a shattered Sir Richard Croft shot himself. By contrast, talented doctors were much valued by monarchs. Sir James Reid was so valued as a doctor to three British monarchs, Queen Victoria, Edward VII, and George V, that he was given a baronetcy. Among his grandchildren are Richard Ingrams, former editor of Private Eye and The Oldie. However, it didnt help earlier royal doctors either that so many monarchs were spectacularly unfit, due to indulgent lifestyles. Queen Victoria and Edward VII gorged themselves to enormous proportions. Henry VIII and George IV had waists measuring 54 inches. Charles III, like his mother, has led a life of exemplary good health, with plenty of exercise. He is said to enjoy two Martinis in the evening but, apart from that, he drinks little and doesnt smoke. He often skips lunch and, when he does eat, is keen on the freshest organic fruit and veg. With the finest medical team and best-in-class expertise to hand, we can have every hope that prospects for a full recovery are, thank God, good. Harry Mount is the author of How England Made the English The Independent Drug thug James Kenny has teamed up with former enemy Paul Gray to sell drugs in Ballymena. The Sunday World has learned that Kenny, who briefly joined a local church in a bid to avoid going to prison, has settled long-standing differences with the ex-UVF boss who was once one of the citys biggest drug dealers. Last year the paper revealed how Kennys prayers were answered when a judge allowed him to walk free despite being caught on camera dishing out a savage beating to a woman. Instead of serving a single day behind bars, the 60-year-old coke-dealing criminal was handed a suspended sentence after unleashing a brutal attack on the woman in November 2022. On top of a five-month prison sentence suspended for two years, Kenny was also handed a two-year restraining order. It was revealed recently how he had been doing volunteer work at a church, with many in the town believing he was putting on an act to impress the court. Ex-UVF boss Paul Gray Pictures of him sweeping the streets and doing other odd jobs for the community were posted on social media in the run-up to his sentencing so he could tell the court he had turned his life around. Now, sources in Ballymena have confirmed hes back to his old ways and has teamed up with notorious drug boss Gray. Kenny ditched the church and the only work hes doing now is selling cocaine for Paul Gray, said a source. As soon as he walked free from court, he was finished with the church stunt. It was all an act to keep him out of jail and it worked. He used to hate Paul Gray. They were big-time enemies and would have had a few run-ins, but they now appear to have settled their differences to sell drugs together. Cowardly career criminal Jim Kenny Kenny has few friends and he is basically Grays lap-dog. It was only last year Gray warned Kenny to stay away from this young woman he was pestering. The girl was connected to Gray and he had words with Kenny to leave her alone. Now Gray is allowing it to happen. They are all using each other for their own gains. Its a messy life. Hes almost 40 years older than her and hes just using her. Shes just being used by an old perverted coke head. Its disgusting. Kenny has even ditched the walking stick he was using when he was attending court, according to sources. Strangely, he doesnt use that walking stick anymore, they said. But he has managed to get himself a black Jeep DLA car. He was running round in a 20-year-old banger beforehand. So he gets raided at his house last year, gets kicked out of that house and into a three-bed Housing Executive house, gets a slap on the wrist for beating up a woman and carrying a knife, now he gets a brand-new car and funny enough doesnt use his walking stick anymore. Hes got everything from playing the system. Hell is too good a place for him. Hes no more disabled than my big toe is. Hes whats wrong with the system crack-head dealers on top-rate disability while decent people are struggling. Gray previously denied he was involved in crime, telling the Sunday World once: What can I do about it? I just leave it in the hands of my lawyer. Everyone has a past... especially in a place like this. But Im just trying to survive. Until a decade ago, Gray was regarded as being among Ballymenas top loyalists until he fell out with the UVF. Last April, images were revealed of father-of-eight Kenny attacking the woman in a flat in Ballymena. A distressing video of that brutal attack shows Kenny repeatedly punch the woman in the face before knocking her to the ground and laying into her in a property in the Co Antrim town. The woman desperately tries to defend herself and seems to be pleading for him to stop, but the tattooed thug overpowers her with a serious of heavy blows to the head. There was uproar last July when Kenny walked away with a suspended sentence for the attack and politicians and womens groups criticised the outcome at court. Alliance party MLA Sian Mulholland said she was writing to the Director of Public Prosecutions, asking for a review of the case. Womens Aid Federation chief executive officer Sarah Mason backed the move, saying: These lenient sentences are not a deterrent for perpetrators of domestic abuse. We need to send a strong message to all of society that violence against women and girls should not be tolerated. The paper also revealed how his plans to curry favour with the court through his church volunteer work may have hit the buffers after he was charged with having a knife in public. Kenny has had highly publicised run-ins with loyalists and other drug gangs in the last 20 years. The cocaine courier is no stranger to a jail cell after serving five years after he was caught red-handed doing a drug deal with Dwayne Mullan, the ex-partner of Peru drug courier Michaella McCollum. Kenny was filmed 15 years ago by police exchanging cash and cocaine with Mullan, who coincidentally also has a raft of convictions for beating up women. Kenny was jailed for more than five years at Belfast Crown Court after admitting dealing class A drugs. He has a previous conviction for possessing a firearm without a licence after cops found an air-pistol in his house after a search in the aftermath of his drug deal with Mullan. The Sunday World understands Kenny was also a close associate of Ballymena drugs kingpin Noel Johnston who died after plunging 50 feet in October of 2021 when he jumped out of an apartment window when the police raided his flat. The PPS has announced decisions on two files submitted by the PSNIs Legacy Investigation Branch following investigations into the activities of the MRF (PA) Police used a baton round during the arrests of three men at a house in west Belfast this morning. It's after receiving a report that three men, armed with knives and wooden bats, were causing a disturbance at a house in Whitecliff Crescent shortly before 5am. Damage was caused to a car and threats to kill were made to a person inside the house. Specially-trained officers were requested to attend. During the arrest of one of the men, a baton round described by police as an attenuating energy projectile was used. Commonly used for riot control, they are a less lethal alternative to traditional bullets and are used for impact rather than to penetrate. Chief Inspector Claire Hamilton, area commander for west Belfast, said: "Officers attended the scene and arrested three men, all aged in their 30s. They remain in police custody at this time. As is normal procedure, the office of the Police Ombudsman has been informed following the use of the AEP. "Enquiries are continuing and police would appeal to anyone with any information in relation to the incident, to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 146 of 09/02/24. "A report can also be submitted online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/, or you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org." A motorist makes their way through the hills of East Antrim near Larne. PETER MORRISON Snow covers the fields in the hills of East Antrim near Larne. PETER MORRISON Snow falls on the Glenshane Pass in the Sperrin Mountains of Co Londonderry. Up to 25cm of snow is forecast in parts of England and Wales, as the Met Office issued weather alerts and warned of disruption to travel. Photo credit: Liam McBurney/PA Wire Snow falls on the Glenshane Pass in the Sperrin Mountains of Co Londonderry. Photo credit: Liam McBurney/PA Wire It was predicted on Groundhog Day last week that an early spring would be around the corner for 2024. This certainly hasnt been the case in Northern Ireland though, as certain areas around the region were adversely affected by snow and ice throughout today. Those who werent impacted badly by the frost instead suffered long and heavy showers, and many roads became impassable as the weather worsened. The Met Offices yellow warning for snow and ice stretched across NI and was brought forward to begin at 9am on Thursday, lasting until 6am on Friday morning. Snow falls on the Glenshane Pass in the Sperrin Mountains of Co Londonderry. Up to 25cm of snow is forecast in parts of England and Wales, as the Met Office issued weather alerts and warned of disruption to travel. Photo credit: Liam McBurney/PA Wire The national forecaster said that the areas hardest hit by the chill included parts of counties Armagh and Derry, with high sections off the latter seeing four centimetres of snow on the ground. Glenanne in Co Armagh had two centimetres of snow lying at around 1pm this afternoon. Western areas of Northern Ireland were first to be hit with snowfall. The PSNI said that many roads in the Newry, Mourne & Down area were impassable. Watch: Heavy snowfall in Co Londonderry The force added that they had dealt with a number of crashes and advised road users only to travel if their journey was necessary. In Co Antrim, the Shanes Hill Road in Kilwaughter, near Larne, was impassable due to hazardous driving conditions, with a crash having occurred, although there were no reports of any injuries. The road is currently impassable due to hazardous driving conditions as a result of snow, and also a collision in the area. Please seek an alternative route for your journey, said a police representative at the time. The Marble Arch Road in Enniskillen was also difficult to navigate through. A man walking his dog on Black Mountain. PACEMAKER However, a Met Office spokesperson noted that there would be an improving picture in the overnight period moving into Friday, and that the weekend should see the mercury rise slightly too. Eastern parts of Northern Ireland and particularly the higher places saw some snow on Thursday afternoon, but temperatures will start to recover throughout Friday, although there will be further outbreaks of rain on Friday morning, they told The Belfast Telegraph. But, the bulk of rain, sleet and snow has been starting to continually and steadily clear northwards. Snow covers the fields in the hills of East Antrim near Larne. PETER MORRISON A rainband is an area of rainfall where all the clouds and precipitation are stretched out in a long line or band. The Met Office expert added that in NI, the rainband has been persistent and while many areas received snow, those that didnt instead had wet conditions. The weekend will remain generally unsettled and there is continued low pressure across the UK, so further outbreaks and longer spells of rain are certainly likely. Temperatures throughout NI will increase over the course of the weekend and could reach up to 9C on Saturday in Belfast, but there is still the risk of overnight rural frost and it will definitely still be cold come the next few evenings. A motorist makes their way through the hills of East Antrim near Larne. PETER MORRISON Friday will also see the easing of some strong winds, and maximum temperatures are predicted to be around 4C. There will still be more outbreaks of rain on Saturday, but winds will again ease further. Patchy rain is expected for Sunday, but it will be overall a lot drier with light winds. Finally in NI, it should be mainly dry in the east on Monday, but freshening northwest winds will bring showery rain to the northwest. Meanwhile, flood warnings have been issued for parts of Wales and England, which also had amber snow and ice warnings given on Thursday too. Ulster Unionist leader Doug Beattie has accused the DUP of stealing the partys clothes as he called on unionists to work together to get rid of the Irish Sea Border. Writing in the Belfast Telegraph, the Upper Bann MLA claimed we are not much further on following the DUPs two-year boycott of Stormont. However, he said we are now in a position to work together to finally deal with the issues while governing as a fully functioning part of the United Kingdom. For some, they will say the DUP have stolen our clothes, for me, I say I dont care, Mr Beattie added. "The simple truth is that eventually, if you apply strategic thinking, they were always going to end up following the Ulster Unionist Party logic. "Some were just a little slow at realising it, and some still havent. Mr Beattie pointed to the EU Scrutiny Committee, an upcoming vote on Article five to 10 of the NI protocol and the Trade and Cooperation Agreement Review in 2025 as opportunities deal with issues thrown up by Brexit which should include a bespoke SPS veterinary deal between the UK and EU. He also endorsed a call from the Federation of Small Businesses to establish Northern Ireland as the hub for data sharing between the UK and EU comparing it to vehicle licensing processes in Swansea. Mr Beattie welcomed the pic-n-mix deal secured by Sir Jeffrey Donaldson to allow him to boast of receiving substantial concessions on the protocol but said it also allowed Sinn Fein to say nothing has changed. He said the latter view of the Safeguarding the Union agreement was shared by the Irish Government while the EU shrug their shoulders. The agreement reached to restore Stormont pledged a rapid, focused process to address the issue championed as a means luring in global investment something Mr Beattie said his party has been calling for since 2012. It allows NI to benefit from UK Free Trade Agreements. Despite the reworded paragraphs from the Windsor Framework, Mr Beattie said EU law still applies in NI meaning divergence between NI and GB will be limited. He insisted his comments are not intended to disrupt the restoration of power-sharing but are about calling for political integrity. Mr Beattie added: "Indeed, the focus on this place, its people, their prosperity, our public services and peace are the 5 Ps of delivery I believe we must focus on. Garda treating the six-year-olds death as suspiciousWoman in her 30s, who is known to the child, has been arrested Garda search close to the scene in the Rathmoylan area of Dunmore East, Co Waterford, where they are investigating the death of a six-year-old boy whose body was found in a car. Image: Brian Lawless/PA Wire A car is removed from the Rathmoylan area of Dunmore East, Co Waterford, where police are investigating the death of a six-year-old boy whose body was found in a car. Image: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Gardai are treating the death of a six-year-old child in Waterford as suspicious. Gardai and paramedics were called to a rural property outside Dunmore East in Waterford late on Thursday evening amid concerns for the welfare of the occupants of a house. A six-year-old boy was discovered unresponsive in a car parked not far from the property. A woman, who is known to the child, was discovered at the scene. The woman, aged in her late 30s, was arrested at the scene and brought to a Waterford Garda Station for questioning. She is being detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984. She was given emergency medical treatment at the scene and will also receive treatment while in custody. Desperate efforts were made at the scene by paramedics to assist the unresponsive child. The youngster was rushed to University Hospital Waterford (UHW) where, despite efforts by doctors to stabilise the child's condition, the boy was pronounced dead shortly after 2am today. Gardai have sealed off the scene to allow for a full forensic and technical examination. Garda search close to the scene in the Rathmoylan area of Dunmore East, Co Waterford, where they are investigating the death of a six-year-old boy whose body was found in a car. Image: Brian Lawless/PA Wire The initial property is located outside Dunmore East and just over 20km from Waterford city. The Office of the State Pathologist has been notified and a full post mortem examination is scheduled to be conducted on the little boy at UHW. Garda sources said the nature of their investigation will be determined by the findings of the post mortem examination. However, the boy's death is being treated as suspicious given the circumstances involved. The woman arrested is understood to have been in a very distressed condition when detained by officers. Gardai are expected to commence local inquiries about when the child and woman were last seen and if neighbours heard or say anything suspicious over recent days. Dunmore East-based Sinn Fein Cllr Pat Fitzgerald said he knows the area well. Its a country rural community, just living out on the coast there, he said. It would be sparsely populated. There are little clusters of houses. Its a very, very, unfortunate thing to happen. God help those people. Its a beautiful little place. Its idyllic. Its coastal Ireland with little cottages and chalets. Its real rural Ireland, rural Waterford. Councillor Fitzgerald said that although its a scenic area, not many tourists would be there at this time of year. There would have been people living there that I wouldnt have known. There were a few families living there, renting properties there, he said, adding that there was a sense of shock in the locality and its a terrible thing to happen in any community. We dont know what happened. Our thoughts go out to the family. Its the last thing I would have expected to hear in that community, he said. Its the worst news I could have heard this morning, or anybody around could have heard. Its the last thing we expected. This is very, very, unusual to say the least. Anybody would be shocked, when they hear something like this. News was still breaking when Fr Richard OHalloran, the parish priest of St Marys Church, Carbally, extended his condolences to the family and the community. The news is breaking slowly, he said. Having spoken to a number of people already this morning, most certainly people are all shocked to hear it. This is the second incident in recent times involving the tragic death of a young child that the locality has been dealing with, he said. Father OHalloran recently spoke at the funeral mass of Kobi Macharia Dooly, whose death in London sent shockwaves through the community in Tramore and beyond. The Dooly family brought Kobi back to Tramore to his paternal home, before his burial in England. Its another death of a young child in obviously distressing circumstances, said Fr OHalloran. The news is hitting hard. People are somewhat shocked. Describing it as a country area that is out of the way, he added: Theres a small little beach there. Thats really it. Theres a little walkway off of the beach around the coastline a little bit as well. Locals know it well, and would use it for swimming and for other activities. If you werent from the area, you probably wouldnt find it. Non-marital families have been marginalised throughout Irelands history, according to Minister for Children Roderic OGorman (PA) Non-marital families have been marginalised throughout Irelands history, according to Minister for Children Roderic OGorman, who has called for the public to back changes in the upcoming referenda. The Green minister said that inserting the category of durable relationships into the Constitution will allow for the recognition of one-parent families and cohabiting couples and their children. He made the comments as the Green Party launched its campaign for a yes-yes vote in the upcoming referenda next month. Two referenda are to be held on March 8 to amend Irelands Constitution. We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review your details and accept them to load the content The first plebiscite is on whether the Constitution should be changed to extend the definition of family beyond only those based on marriage to include durable relationships. The second is on whether to delete a reference to the role and duties of women in the home and replace it with a new article on the provision of care. Speaking at the launch in Dublin, Mr OGorman said Article 41 of the Constitution of Ireland currently excludes tens of thousands of families from the protection of being recognised as a family. Right now the values set out in Article 41 of our Constitution dont meet our values as a nation, he added. It prescribes or sets out a very limited role for women in terms of a womans life in the home and the neglect of mothers duties within the home. It doesnt do enough to place an obligation on the state to support care within families and with two yes votes on the March 8, we have the opportunity to change that and with the opportunity to make sure that our Constitution does reflect our values today. He said it was important to recognise non-marital families, For too long non-marital families have been marginalised in Ireland and we know about that doubt in our in our countrys history, he added. By creating this category of durable relationships, we allow for the recognition of one-parent families, we allow for the recognition of cohabiting couples and their children. But importantly, our change is not going to change the unique recognition, that special recognition that marriage has within our Constitution and that ability of the state to make distinctions between married families and other families. Mr OGorman said he also accepted that the immediate change from a referendum is not always tangibly clear, but said it will provide the same protections afforded to marital families. There are certain protections that a marital family has, protections around internal decision making, and right now those those legal protections are only open to marital families, the childrens minister added. If we make this change, theyll be open to families like cohabiting couples, like one parent families. In terms of the care side, it places this new obligation on the state to recognise care within families. He said it will be binding on this government and future governments to ensure it supports and grows the level of support for carers. Itll be relevant to Cabinet decisions, it will be relevant to negotiations around budgets, and ultimately itll be interpreted by the Supreme Court in cases where individuals, Irish citizens who feel that the government of the day isnt doing enough to support their care takes the case to the court, Mr OGorman said. Green Party leader Eamon Ryan said the courts will test the meaning of shall strive, which is part of the proposed changes to the wording of the Constitution. Mr Ryan said: The Constitution sets out our values and does give direction which the courts apply in terms of: what does shall strive mean? That does have to be something thats tested. The previous wording endeavour to support was tested over the last eight decades and didnt actually make a material difference. So my argument is that the stronger wording we are putting does give real opportunity for us to see those values implemented in real decisions. You cant in the Constitution write a budget, you cant in the Constitution write a law. You wouldnt want to, it would not work. That does have to be something that is tested over time in the courts, interpreting what is the intention of the Irish people in how they vote on March 8. Justice Minister Helen McEntee has said there are people across the country who know exactly who is behind suspected arson attacks on buildings and urged them to come forward. Gardai and the Government have been grappling with a series of incidents at premises rumoured to be used for asylum seekers, with the Minister for Finance warning on Thursday that there is a real risk of someone being killed. In two interviews with RTE and Virgin Media on Thursday night, Ms McEntee said people could be complicit if they do not come forward with information. She said of misinformation on Virgin Media: I dont think its any one person, I dont think its any one group of people, I think there are multiple people who are at fault here, but I think people need to be assured that gardai are making good progress. She told RTE News: We will be absolutely relentless in supporting them to track down those who are responsible for these vile crimes, crimes which carry a maximum sentence of up to life in prison, but we cannot leave it just to the gardai. There are people right across the country, some people who are protesting, who know exactly who are responsible. By not coming forward with information, you are complicit, so I am calling on those who have information to come forward before these fires cost somebody their life. I believe that there are people right across the country who have information, who know the people who are responsible for carrying out these vile crimes, and I am asking them to come forward before somebody loses their life. We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review your details and accept them to load the content Ms McEntee made the comments as the Government was accused in the Dail of doing almost nothing about the escalation of attacks on properties earmarked for refugees. People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy said there had been 26 arson attacks in the last five years against premises rumoured to be used for asylum seekers. Speaking in the Dail, he said ordinary people must take a stand against the terrorism of the far right. He said rumours emerge online suggesting a property is going to be used and far-rights activists arrive in the area, and a few days later the property is burned down. People Before Profits Paul Murphy (Brian Lawless/PA) Mr Murphy named several people who are quick to the scene when buildings are rumoured to be housing refugees, but later said he was not linking those people to the arson attacks. We should call what we are seeing what it is. We are witnessing a campaign of far-right terrorism in this state, Mr Murphy said. And what has been the response? Almost nothing. Nobody charged, fiddling while the country burns. We finally have three arrests this morning for the arson in Ringsend. Finance Minister Michael McGrath said gardai are doing everything to address the heinous crimes, but arson attacks are difficult to solve. We utterly condemn any criminal act, where properties are being deliberately set on fire. It is arson. It is a criminal act and the gardai are investigating, he told the Dail. Youve acknowledged arrests have been made today in one particular case, but the best thing that we can do is to reaffirm our support for the work of An Garda Siochana, that we will give them the necessary resources and whatever support that they need to do their work. These are difficult crimes to solve, lets be honest, but they will do everything they possibly can to solve them and to send files to the DPP and ultimately achieve conviction. I think its important that we do stand together and provide our support because these are heinous crimes that could not just end up in damaging or destroying property, but could end up taking human life, and that is the real risk that we are very concerned about. I know you are concerned about it as well. As a Government we have responded as comprehensively as we can with the support of the people to a wave of migration that we have had to respond to because of the war in Ukraine. Mr Murphy blamed social inequalities on the government, accusing Fine Gael and Fianna Fail of neglecting communities. The reason we have a housing crisis is not because of immigration, but its because you push the profits of big developers and landlords ahead of peoples need for a home, the Dublin South West TD said. We have a health crisis because you put the private hospitals and the insurance companies first. We have deep inequalities, we have neglected communities because of Fianna Fail and Fine Gael which have run the stage ever since its foundation. That is why ordinary people need to take a stand against the terrorism of the far right, against the racism, homophobia, sexism and hate that they tried to spread and against the housing crisis and inequality that you have created. A pop-up barber shop has been offering free haircuts in an initiative aimed at boosting discussions around mental wellbeing among men. The one-day event in the St Enoch Shopping Centre in Glasgow on Friday is part of the Scottish Governments Mind To Mind campaign, which supports the mental wellbeing of Scots. The pop-up was launched with support from the Lions Barber Collective, a charity that trains barbers in mental health awareness. Mental wellbeing minister Maree Todd said: Our Mind To Mind campaign promotes open conversations about mental health and wellbeing and provides useful tips and stories of how others deal with lifes challenges, as well as signposting relevant helplines and resources for those who need additional or urgent support. The pop-up shop offered free haircuts (Paul Chappells/PA) Looking after your mental health is as important as looking after your physical health and we should all try to take steps every day to help our wellbeing. Talking about how were feeling can help to lift our mood and allow us to support others. Whether were spending time with friends, being active or taking a moment for ourselves, there are lots of things we can do every day to support our wellbeing. The Lions Barber Collective was set up in 2015 by Torquay-based barber Tom Chapman, who lost a friend to suicide. Mr Chapman and the team have been trained to recognise and open conversations on mental wellbeing and discuss support available. Lions Barber Collective barber Rocky Griffin with a customer at the pop-up shop (Paul Chappells/PA) Mr Chapman said: Barbers are in the very privileged position of having close interaction and relationships with our clients day-in, day-out. Our mission is to help create safe spaces where men in particular feel comfortable to speak about their mental health and to be able to signpost them to support and information. That peer-to-peer approach that we adopt, which is behind the Mind To Mind ethos, is really important and we are delighted to have collaborated on todays pop-up event. We look forward to having many open and honest discussions around mental wellbeing as we carry out the haircuts throughout the day. Mental health support is available on the Mind To Mind website at https://www.nhsinform.scot/mind-to-mind/. For urgent help, contact the NHS 24 mental health hub, your GP, or police on 111. YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 9, ARMENPRESS. Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan on February 8 in The Hague met with Fernando Arias, the Director General of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) to discuss partnership. The Armenian Foreign Minister emphasized the importance attached by Armenia to the commitments stipulated in the Chemical Weapons Convention, which has been reflected, among others, in the legislative reforms undertaken in the country since Armenia joined the document, the foreign ministry said in a readout. Director General Fernando Arias presented the existing challenges facing the organization in the conditions of the latest developments, including in the context of implementing the mandate defined by the convention. Views were exchanged around the continuous efforts of the OPCW and member states in the direction of disarmament and non-proliferation in the changing world. The 11 International Space Station crew members with, in blue, the Axiom Space 3 crew, Walter Villadei, Alper Gezeravci and Marcus Wandt. Above them hanging upside down in blue is Axiom Spaces Michael Lopez-Alegria (Nasa via AP) Astronauts from Turkey, Italy and Sweden returned to Earth on Friday, ending a private three-week mission to the International Space Station. The trio were accompanied by a retired Nasa astronaut who now works for Axiom Space, the Houston company that arranged the chartered flight. The crew returned in a SpaceX capsule that parachuted into the Atlantic off the Florida coast. The SpaceX capsule parachutes into the Atlantic on Friday (Axiom Space via AP) Turkey celebrated Alper Gezeravcis launch from Cape Canaveral last month. A former fighter pilot and captain for Turkish Airlines, he became the first person from his country to fly in space. Mr Gezeravci was joined on the trip by Italian air force colonel Walter Villadei, Swedens Marcus Wandt, a former fighter pilot chosen as a reserve astronaut by the European Space Agency in 2022 and Michael Lopez-Alegria, their escort. Turkey, Italy and Sweden financed the mission, paying roughly 55 million dollars (43.6 million) apiece. It was Axioms third private mission to the space station; the fourth is planned later this year. Before leaving the space station, Mr Gezeravci thanked his country for its bold and determined decision to send a citizen into space as part of its 100th anniversary as a republic. While in orbit, the astronauts conducted science experiments and chatted to schoolchildren and officials from their countries. They enjoyed a few extra days at the space station, waiting for the weather to improve in the splashdown zone. The box where classified Afghanistan documents were found in the garage of President Joe Bidens Delaware home, during a search by the FBI (Justice Department via AP) US President Joe Biden wilfully retained and disclosed highly classified materials when he was a private citizen, including documents about military and foreign policy in Afghanistan and other sensitive national security matters, according to a Justice Department report. The report from special counsel Robert Hur, which was released on Thursday, represents a harshly critical assessment of Mr Bidens handling of sensitive government materials, but also details the reasons why he should not be charged with the crime. The findings will likely blunt his ability to forcefully condemn Donald Trump, Mr Bidens likely opponent in Novembers presidential election, over a criminal indictment charging the former president with illegally hoarding classified records at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida. According to the report, evidence suggests that many of the classified documents were retained by mistake (Niall Carson/PA) Our investigation uncovered evidence that President Biden wilfully retained and disclosed classified materials after his vice presidency when he was a private citizen, Mr Hur wrote. It came after a year-long investigation into the improper retention of classified documents by Mr Biden, from his time as a senator and as vice president, that were found at his Delaware home, as well as at a private office that he used in between his service in the Obama administration and becoming president. The investigation into Mr Biden is separate from special counsel Jack Smiths inquiry into the handling of classified documents by Trump after the Republican left the White House. Mr Smiths team has charged Trump with illegally retaining top secret records at his Mar-a-Lago home and then obstructing government efforts to get them back. Trump has said he did nothing wrong. After Mr Bidens lawyers uncovered classified documents at his former office, his representatives promptly contacted the National Archives to arrange their return to the government. The National Archives notified the FBI, which opened an investigation. Mr Biden made his homes available to agents to conduct thorough searches, and that is how the most sensitive documents came to the attention of the Justice Department. A damaged box where classified documents were found in the garage of President Joe Biden at his Delaware home (Justice Department/AP) Mr Biden could not have been prosecuted as a sitting president, but Mr Hurs report states that he would not recommend charges against Mr Biden regardless. We would reach the same conclusion even if Department of Justice policy did not foreclose criminal charges against a sitting president, the report said. According to the report, evidence suggests that many of the classified documents recovered by investigators at the Penn Biden Centre, in parts of Mr Bidens Delaware home, and in his Senate papers at the University of Delaware were retained by mistake. Mr Biden said in a statement the was pleased the special counsel had reached the conclusion I believed all along they would reach that there would be no charges brought in this case and the matter is now closed. He made a point of saying that he sat for five hours of in-person interviews over two days on October 8 and 9, even though Israel had just been attacked on October 7th and I was in the middle of handling an international crisis. I just believed thats what I owed the American people so they could know no charges would be brought and the matter closed, Mr Biden added. Part of the report centres on Mr Bidens handling of classified documents about Afghanistan specifically, the Obama administrations decision to send additional troops there that he retained after he left office as vice president in his Delaware home. A separate inquiry is being conducted into the handling of classified documents by former US president Donald Trump (PA) Mr Biden preserved materials documenting his opposition to the troop surge, including a 2009 classified handwritten memo to then-president Barack Obama. These materials were proof of the stand Mr Biden took in what he regarded as among the most important decisions of his vice presidency, the report said. The documents have classification markings up to the Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information level and were found in a box in Mr Bidens Delaware garage that contained other materials of great significance to him and that he appears to have personally used and accessed. Photographs included in the report showed some of the classified Afghanistan documents stored in a worn cardboard box stored in his garage, apparently in a loose collection with other household items, including a ladder and a wicker basket. Classified documents from the Obama administration were also found in Mr Bidens basement den, according to the report. Classified documents from his time in the Senate in the 1970s and 1980s were also found in his garage. The report comes after a year-long investigation into the improper retention of classified documents by Biden that were found at his Delaware home (Justice Department/AP) Despite signs that Mr Biden knowingly retained and disclosed classified materials, Mr Hurs report said criminal charges were not merited for multiple reasons. These include the fact that as vice president, and during his subsequent presidency when the Afghanistan records were found, he had the authority to keep classified documents at his home. Attorney general Merrick Garland in January 2023 named Mr Hur, a former lawyer for Maryland, to handle the politically sensitive Justice Department inquiry in an attempt to avoid conflicts of interest. It is one of three recent Justice Department investigations into the handling of classified documents by politically prominent figures. Long-standing concerns over US President Joe Bidens age and memory intensified following the release of a special counsels report investigating his possession of classified documents (Joe Giddens/PA) Long-standing concerns over US President Joe Bidens age and memory intensified following the release of a special counsels report investigating his possession of classified documents. The report, which was published on Thursday, described the 81-year-old Democrats memory as hazy, fuzzy, faulty, poor and having significant limitations. It noted that Mr Biden could not recall defining milestones in his own life. Former president Donald Trump, the current Republican front-runner, has boasted of his own vast memory but has also at times said in legal proceedings that he does not recall certain events (Jane Barlow/PA) He did not remember when he was vice president, forgetting on the first day of the interview when his term ended (if it was 2013 when did I stop being Vice President?), and forgetting on the second day of the interview when his term began (in 2009, am I still Vice President?), the report said. He did not remember, even within several years, when his son Beau died. While Mr Biden will not face charges for mishandling classified documents, the reports assertions about his memory could undermine his message to voters that he can manage the government and safeguard the country. Voters are already going into this years election with severe misgivings about the presidents age having scrutinised his gaffes, coughing, slow walking and even a summer tumble off his bicycle. In ruling out a prosecution of Mr Biden over his retention of highly classified materials as a private citizen, the report suggested he would seem too feeble to prosecute: It would be difficult to convince a jury that they should convict him by then a former president well into his eighties of a serious felony that requires a mental state of wilfulness. The White House pushed back on the characterisations of Mr Bidens memory in a letter from the presidents lawyers that was published in special counsel Robert Hurs report. The letter argues that Mr Bidens inability to recall dates or details of events that happened years ago is neither surprising nor unusual, particularly about when certain documents were packed or moved. We do not believe that the reports treatment of President Bidens memory is accurate or appropriate, the letter said. The report uses highly prejudicial language to describe a commonplace occurrence among witnesses: a lack of recall of years-old events. Such comments have no place in a Department of Justice report. It is not unusual for the subjects of government investigations to say they dont recall an event or a conversation in order to avoid issues such as perjury. The special counsel did not release the transcript of the interviews with Mr Biden, so some context is unclear. Former president Donald Trump, the current Republican front-runner, has boasted of his own vast memory but has also at times said in legal proceedings that he does not recall certain events. Mr Biden noted in a statement issued on Thursday that he had sat for five hours of interviews with Mr Hurs team over two days on October 8 and 9, even though Israel had just been attacked on October 7th and I was in the middle of handling an international crisis. In an August poll by The Associated Press-NORC Centre for Public Affairs, 77% of US adults said Mr Biden is too old to be effective for four more years. It was one of the rare sources of bipartisan agreement during a politically polarised era, with 89% of Republicans and 69% of Democrats saying Mr Bidens age is a problem. The release of the report overlapped with recent Biden speeches in which he mistakenly claimed to talk with European leaders Frances Francois Mitterand and Germanys Helmut Kohl who had not held office since the 1990s and in fact had died several years ago. Former French Justice Minister Robert Badinter, author of the abolitionist law in France, has died aged 95 (Ian Langsdon /Pool Photo via AP, File) Robert Badinter, who spearheaded the drive to abolish Frances death penalty, campaigned against antisemitism and Holocaust denial and led a European body dealing with the legal fallout of Yugoslavias breakup, has died. He was 95. French President Emmanuel Macron hailed Mr Badinter, a revered human rights defender and former justice minister, as a figure of the century who never ceased to advocate for the ideas of the Enlightenment. The French Justice Ministry on Friday confirmed Mr Badinters death, without providing details. Robert Badinter was a key player in the Peace Conference on Yugoslavia (AP Photo/Francois Mori, pool, File) A famed lawyer and thinker, Mr Badinter was best known for his sustained push to end capital punishment. He described seeing one of his own clients lose his head to a guillotine, which was used up until the 1970s to kill criminals in France. Over his career, he saved six men from execution, eliciting death threats in the process. As justice minister under then-President Francois Mitterrand, Mr Badinter overcame public opposition and won parliamentary support for abolishing the death penalty in 1981. Born in Paris in 1928 to a Jewish family, Mr Badinter saw Nazi horrors and Frances collaboration up close during World War II, and lost his father in the Sobibor death camp, according to Mr Macrons office. As a lawyer, Mr Badinter later pursued a notorious Holocaust denier in court. Mr Badinter went on to lead Frances Constitutional Court, served as a senator for 16 years and was seen as a moral compass for many in France for his defence of human rights. French President Emmanuel Macron described Badinter as a figure of the century who never ceased to plead for the ideas of the Enlightenment (AP Photo/Markus Schreiber, Pool) In 1991, Mr Badinter led an arbitration body set up by the European Economic Community to provide the Peace Conference on Yugoslavia with legal advice after two of the countrys six republics Slovenia and Croatia had declared independence. The Badinter Commission, as the body became known, was made up of presidents of constitutional courts of the member nations of the EEC, a precursor to the EU. The Badinter Commission issued 15 legal opinions between 1991 and 1993, including one saying that the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia had dissolved. It paved the way for international recognition of Slovenia and Croatia as sovereign countries in 1992. The Badinter Commission also declared the borders between former Yugoslav republics as international frontiers between newly independent countries that could only be changed through diplomacy, and not by force. We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review your details and accept them to load the content Despite the legal pronouncements, wars raged in the 1990s in Croatia and later Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo, claiming hundreds of thousands of lives and displacing the largest number of refugees in Europe since World War II. Mr Macron will preside over a special national homage to Mr Badinter, the presidents office said. In his statement, Mr Macron honoured the memory of a wise man of the republic who, after having experienced the tragedy of the century, embodied the most beautiful part of hope. Two schools, one the Catholic Rathmore Grammar in the Finaghy area of Belfast, the other the Protestant Glenwood Primary on the Shankill Road, both visited by Education Minister Paul Givan in his first official engagements. The visits were positive first steps by a man in charge of a department his party had been expected to sidestep. It was little surprise that the main topic on his mind was funding for education. The DUP MLA said he had full confidence that the finance minister, Sinn Feins Caoimhe Archibald, knew just how vital it was that his department got what it needed when the cash was handed out. Mr Givan will be meeting with the teaching unions next week in a bid to find a resolution to the ongoing pay dispute. Read more Call for new Executive to bring entire NI education system under one department Stabilising the education system is an important part of allowing teachers and support staff to get back to doing what they do best, and to do so in the knowledge they are valued as much as the education workforce in other parts of the UK. But there should be no illusion that the financial needs of the education sector end there. At Glenwood Primary, a walk along the cold corridors only reinforces the message that hundreds of schools desperately need investment. In his first week in office, the minister is making the right noises around demanding better for all children, regardless of their background. The requirements are significant, he said yesterday. How this department has been historically funded simply will not cut it. It will not come anywhere near what is required. Having selected the education portfolio ahead of others it was the DUPs first pick last Saturday whether Mr Givan can deliver on what he describes as ambitious plans will ultimately depend on the money flowing from the Treasury. We are not long from finding out just how serious the Executive is about protecting the future of our children. An independent review of education is sitting on the table, demanding immediate uplifts in funding, and special education is crumbling, unfit to meet demand. Many schools, as the minister will know, are falling down around the pupils the teachers are trying to educate. Getting the next generation ready for the future, investing in them, thats a priority for everybody, Mr Givan said. That crosses across every political party and is blind to any differences in our country. We all want the best for our children. Following through on that sentiment will be easier said than done. 14 people have been convicted in relation to UVF cocaine dealing in recent months A number of East Belfast UVF drug dealers have turned their back on the trade. The PSNIs Paramilitary Crime Taskforce has led a major crackdown on the East Belfast UVF in recent years. Following the murder of Ian Ogle in 2019 there have been a series of high-profile arrests related to drug dealing in the east Belfast UVF, with those arrested including brothers Mark and Glenn Rainey. They are two of 14 people who have been convicted in relation to UVF connected drug dealing in recent months, along with Daniel Bookkeeper Baine, who received an 18-month sentence. Messages about the cocaine deals and their debtors were found on Mark Raineys phone. Ciaran Dunbar is joined by Sunday Life reporter Ciaran Barnes to look at the kingpins, the enforcers and the bookkeeper behind the cocaine trade in East Belfast. Bangladeshis deliver an injured Rohingya who tried to cross the border from Myanmar into Bangladesh to members of the Border Guard Bangladesh in Ukhia, Coxs Bazar, Bangladesh, Feb. 6, 2024. Myanmar border guards and soldiers fled into Bangladesh earlier this week after losing contact with their commanders during fierce fighting in Rakhine state, an interpreter present during their conversation with Bangladesh officials told BenarNews on Friday. Many of these Burmese members of the junta-affiliated border police and army who have been sheltering with the Border Guard Bangladesh said they wished to return to their homes, according to an interpreter who spoke to BenarNews near the BGB outpost in Teknaf, Coxs Bazar. As many as 330 members of the Myanmar Border Guard Police (BGP) and soldiers crossed the border after abandoning their posts in Rakhine, next door in Myanmar, amid fierce fighting with Arakan Army rebels, who have been making advances in gaining control of territory in battles with junta forces. The BGP members told the interpreter, Mohammad Saiful Islam, that they were attacked around 4 a.m. on Feb. 4. They fought back before fleeing on Feb. 6. They said the Arakan Army encircled from three sides and launched attacks on them. Before the attack, the Arakan Army severed all means of communication with their senior officials, Saiful Alam told BenarNews. But they continued their resistance for two days. Ten of their members died while the Arakan Army lost at least 20 of their members. They had no way to contact their commanding officers to get instructions. As the fighting crept closer to the border this week, at least three civilians on the Bangladesh side were reported killed by artillery and gunfire from the fighting. Saiful Islam said he talked to 17 army officers linked to Myanmars border guard along with 147 BGP members who fled from the Rakhine state. They told him they crossed into Bangladesh to survive. If we proceeded in other directions, they would apprehend and kill us, he quoted an unnamed soldier as saying. Saiful Islam said BGB leaders gave him questions to ask the Myanmar forces, adding most were reluctant to provide any details. They were more interested in asking about how they would be returned to Myanmar. The common answer I get from them is we came under attack and we fled, he said. Border Guard Bangladesh members gather in the Ukhia sub-district where they are unable to rescue victims because of ongoing shelling across the border in Myanmar, Feb. 9, 2024. [Minhaj Uddin/BenarNews] Earlier this week, officials reported that 330 Myanmar troops crossed into Bangladesh and surrendered their weapons to the BGB. Maj. Gen. Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqui, BGBs new chief, said Bangladesh had followed international norms by allowing the Myanmar border guards and soldiers to cross into Bangladesh on humanitarian grounds. Bangladesh ambassador to Myanmar Md. Monowar Hossain said he spoke to a Myanmar deputy foreign minister who expressed his governments desire for the BGP to be returned. Bangladesh agreed to repatriate them by sea. Fight for control Myanmars security forces and the rebel Arakan Army (AA), founded in 2009, have been fighting for control of Rakhine state, which borders Bangladeshs Coxs Bazar and Bandarban districts. In recent months, the AA has intensified attacks on the Myanmar military and the BGP. On Friday, the AA claimed it captured the final major junta territory in Mrauk U, effectively taking control of the town in Myanmars northern Rakhine state, according to Radio Free Asia, a news service affiliated with BenarNews. Previously, the AA captured two key military units in western Rakhine state, seizing control of Minbya. This came after AA rebels captured a BGP camp in Maungdaw township last weekend. As fighting intensified between the junta forces and the Arakan Army, the civilian population of Rakhine state including Buddhist Chakma and minority Rohingya Muslims has been displaced. Hundreds of people have been trying to cross into Bangladesh, but the BGB was put on alert to stop any influx of Myanmar residents. In Dhaka, Obaidul Quader, a senior minister and spokesman for and general secretary of the ruling Awami League party, said the government would not allow people from Myanmar to take shelter in Bangladesh. Lt. Col. Mohiuddin Ahmed, BGB Teknaf battalion commander, said many people were trying to enter Bangladesh at different spots along the border. As of today, we have apprehended 137 people who attempted to enter, he told BenarNews on Friday. Two days earlier, Quader told journalists that Rohingya would not be allowed to cross over from Rakhine. The Rohingya people have become a big burden for Bangladesh the international assistance has fallen. How long can we support them, he asked. About 1 million Rohingya live in refugee camps in and around Bangladeshs Coxs Bazar most have fled Myanmar since a military crackdown against their stateless minority group in August 2017. On Friday, residents of Tombru, Gundam, Teknaf and Ukhia in Bangladesh told BenarNews correspondents that the intensity of fighting near the border has been reduced. Papuan women sell vegetables at the Wamena Misi traditional market in Wamena, Highland Papua province, Indonesia, with traditional noken bags hanging on their heads, Jan. 14, 2024. UPDATED at 8:05 p.m. ET on 2024-02-09 Inside a thatched wooden house on a hillside overlooking a valley of fields and forest, Sadiq Asso gathered his clan members to discuss a matter of national importance: Indonesias upcoming general election. Sadiq, the tribal chief of the Assolipele clan in Jayawijaya, a regency in the Papua region, was preparing to lead his community of 2,000 people in voting on Feb. 14, when Indonesians will choose the successor to President Joko Jokowi Widodo and new members of Parliament. But unlike most of his fellow citizens, who will cast their ballots individually, Sadiq will use a traditional voting model called the noken system to vote on behalf of his community, based on prior consensus. Weve agreed to use the noken system to preserve our culture, said Sadiq, as women of his clan sat nearby weaving the multifunctional bag made from bark after which the voting method is named. Papuas six provinces, which are home to 4.4 million people, are predominantly inhabited by Melanesians, who are culturally and ethnically distinct from the rest of Indonesia. In remote areas, particularly where the mountainous terrain and dense jungles make access difficult, voting is a collective decision overseen by tribal chiefs. The noken system aims to accommodate people who are considered illiterate and overcome geographical problems, Theodorus Kossay, the head of the General Election Commission for Highland Papua province, of which Jayawijaya is part, told BenarNews. Under the noken system, community members typically entrust their voting rights to a big man, who elects the ticket of the candidate on their behalf. The ballot is then delivered in a noken to election officials. In other villages, after deliberation with a leader, the number of votes for each candidate is divided up by community consensus. The ballots are cast into a noken bag hanging at a polling booth. Sadiq Asso, the leader of the Assolipele tribe, sits inside a communal building with a noken bag hanging in the foreground, in Walesi, a district of Jayawijaya regency in Highland Papua province, Indonesia, Jan. 14, 2024. [Dandy Koswaraputra/BenarNews] The noken system was introduced in Papua during Indonesia's first direct election in 2004, but some election officials believe its use dates back to 1969, when the United Nations oversaw a contentious referendum that formalized Indonesias control over the western half of New Guinea island. The referendum, in which a little over 1,000 handpicked Papuans were allowed to vote, is widely considered a sham and continues to fuel resentment of Indonesian rule in the region. Poorly armed Papuan fighters collectively known as the West Papua National Liberation Army have battled Indonesia since the early 1960s, when it took control of the western half of New Guinea island from the Dutch. A separate nonviolent independence movement is regarded as treasonous by Indonesian authorities who have imprisoned key leaders. Today, Papua is the most heavily militarized part of Indonesia and one of its poorest regions. Trust and transparency Mistrust of Indonesias formal voting system explains why some Papuans prefer the noken model. The one using the ballot box is not transparent, said Sadiq. With the noken system everything is out in the open. After the voting is done it is placed on the table openly. Sisilia Asso, 28, who belongs to the same clan as Sadiq, said she respected the tradition and collective approach to voting. We prefer the noken system because it is done according to the consensus we have come to, said Sisilia, who holds a bachelors degree in accounting. However, the model is not without its critics. Some argue it is undemocratic because it does not give citizens the freedom to choose without the influence of the tribal chiefs. Others say it is susceptible to manipulation and women are often sidelined in communal decision making. Magasalok Asso (left) knits traditional Papuan multi-purpose bags known as noken with her daughter-in-law, Sisilia Asso, in front of a thatched wooden house called a Honai in Walesi, a district of Jayawijaya regency in Highland Papua province, Indonesia, Jan. 14, 2024. [Dandy Koswaraputra/BenarNews] Irsan Yelipele, 30, a youth leader in the remote Walesi district in Highland Papua, said he believed direct voting was fairer and more transparent. I prefer one man, one vote because the noken system is prone to fraud, which can include transferring votes from our chosen candidate to another, Irsan said. Loina Lokobal, 20, a student in the highlands town of Wamena, expressed similar concern. I heard about such cases from my parents. So, for the presidential election I will vote by myself, she said. We will resist Electoral authorities in Papua have tried to balance the opposing views by allowing the noken system to be used in some remote and mountainous areas, while encouraging direct voting in cities and towns. Officials have also implemented measures to ensure transparency and accountability, such as punching a hole in the noken to indicate that a vote has been cast, and summoning the tribal chiefs and political parties to agree on rules. But the nokens use in elections could soon be over. The Indonesian Election Supervisory Agency has called for it to be abolished because it violates democratic principles. And under the central governments 2022-41 development plan for Papua, the system is being reviewed. We aim to reach an agreement on whether the noken system will be in place in 2041 or if there will be modifications or a middle ground, Velix Wanggai, the acting governor of Highland Papua province, told BenarNews. The General Election Commission (KPU) office in Jayapura, Papua Province, Jan. 9 2024. [Hadi Ahdiana/BenarNews] Phasing out the noken system would take time because of its cultural significance in Papua, said Naftali Paweka, an electoral commission official in Highland Papua. Sadiq, the tribal chief from Jayawijaya, said attempts to get rid of it would also face resistance. As tribal leaders, we will surely resist, he said. Who dares to let our culture disappear? You were born in the noken, you fill [the ballot] in the noken, and you return to the noken. An earlier version of this story incorrectly used a female pronoun for Irsan Yelipele, a man. A motorboat carrying ballot boxes arrives at Pramuka island in the Thousand Islands, in this aerial photo taken ahead of Indonesia's presidential and legislative polls next week, Feb. 9, 2024. For Damianus Luhat, a long-serving election official in Indonesias East Kalimantan province, organizing a vote is not only a civic duty but an adventure that requires him to brave rapids and cliffs, and camp overnight. For the Feb.14 general election too as he has done every five years he and other poll workers in his Long Bagan district delivered ballots and equipment to remote villages along the Mahakam River with a longboat as their only means of transportation. It takes us eight hours to get to the farthest village. We often have to camp on the riverbank because of the distance, he told BenarNews on Thursday. Damianus recalled a previous election period during which his longboat packed with election paraphernalia capsized while crossing a rapid that looked like a waterfall. He and his team managed to save the election materials, but lost some of their personal belongings. Hopefully, everything will go smoothly this time, he said. Luhat is one of the millions of poll officials who are preparing for Indonesias general election next week, which will be the largest and most complex single-day vote in the world. It is gargantuan and complicated because eligible voters will be casting their ballots not just to elect a president and vice president, but to vote for members of the national and regional legislatures. And because nearly 205 million people are eligible to vote, officials have to set up more than 800,000 polling stations across the sprawling archipelago. Workers lift election supplies destined for the logistics warehouse on Pramuka island and meant for distribution in the Thousand Islands, at the Marina Ancol Port, in Jakarta, Feb. 9, 2024. [Eko Siswono Toyudho/BenarNews] The presidential race is a three-way contest between Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto, Anies Baswedan, a former Jakarta governor and ex-Central Java Gov. Ganjar Pranowo. Standing for the 580 seats in the House of Representatives will be a total of 9,917 candidates from 18 national parties, according to the General Elections Commission. And around 250,000 candidates will compete for 20,000 seats at the regional level. For all these contests the election commission needs to print ballots and transport them across the length and the breadth of the country along with ballot boxes and items such as envelopes, and candidate lists. And to make things just a tad more difficult, the 1.2 billion ballots the commission has had to print arent all the same. They vary depending on the number of candidates and electoral districts. The commission has enlisted more than 5.7 million workers and volunteers to help with the election. Workers prepare ballot papers ahead of Indonesias general election next week, in Banda Aceh, Indonesia, Jan. 7, 2024. [Chaideer Mahyuddin/AFP] The logistics of this election are staggering, considering it will be held across a country of more than 18,000 islands with diverse geographies and infrastructure. Take the case of the Mentawai Islands, a group of four islands off the coast of Sumatra. Election workers have to travel on foot for hours through hilly and forested areas to reach some of the polling stations on these islands, said Saudara Halomoan Pardede, the head of the election commission in the region. Our areas are separated by sea and some parts are very difficult to reach. We also have to deal with the rivers and the weather, he told BenarNews. The timing of the elections in February smack dab during the rainy season has added to the challenges. In Central Sulawesis Pagimana subdistrict, four policemen, a soldier and several poll workers left Thursday for a three-day journey on foot to deliver election supplies to a village that is inaccessible by any vehicle. They will have to traverse forest trails, navigate steep slopes and wade across bridgeless rivers, all under uncertain weather conditions, said Frets Adolof Rombot, one of the policemen. We hope we wont face any troubles or dangers like heavy rain or wild animals, he told Benar News. Frets Adolof Rombot (left) and a local rest after crossing a river to deliver a ballot box and other voting equipment to the remote village of Baloa Doda in Pagimana, a subdistrict of Banggai regency in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, Feb. 9, 2024. [Agus Tongkasi/BenarNews] The complexity of the elections also poses challenges for the voters, who have to cast multiple ballots with scores of candidates, some of whom they may not know much about. Indonesias elections are among the most complex in the world, according to Khoirunnisa Agustyati, executive director of the Association for Elections and Democracy (Perludem). The electoral districts are large, the system is open proportional, the voters are numerous, and the geographic diversity is also vast, Khoirunnisa told BenarNews. Aspirants compete for a seat with other parties rivals as well as their own. And support for a political party doesnt necessarily mean a vote for its presidential nominee. Khoirunnisa said that this confusion led to a high number of invalid votes in the 2019 elections, which was 11.12%, or 17.5 million, of the total votes cast for the House of Representatives. The number of invalid ballots for the Regional Representative Council, a parliamentary chamber similar to the Senate in the United States, was even higher, at 19% or 29 million ballots. She said the public was generally more interested in the presidential election, because the media publicizes it more. The legislative elections receive less attention and the voters have limited information about the candidates profiles, she said. Election workers check ballot boxes for the 2024 general election at the General Election Commission logistics warehouse, in Cempaka Putih, Central Jakarta, Feb. 9, 2024. [Eko Siswono Toyudho/BenarNews] One such voter is Agung Budiyanto, a 37-year-old private employee in Tasikmalaya regency in West Java. I dont even know whom to vote for besides the president and vice-president, he told BenarNews. He did not receive any information about the election or the candidates in his area, he said. There are too many people on the banners and billboards. But I dont know any of them. I will just vote randomly, he said. First-time voter, 17-year-old Taghsya Rizqita Putri Amany from Jakarta, said the candidates programs were unclear, because their campaign materials showed only their faces and slogans. Taghsya said she felt overwhelmed by the various candidates she would have to vote for because of the various elections taking place simultaneously. I worry that my future will be ruined if I pick the wrong people as leaders, she said. Taufan Bustan in Palu, Indonesia, contributed to this report. YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 9, ARMENPRESS. German authorities have approved an extradition request filed by the General Prosecution of Armenia and a fugitive suspected of embezzling over 28,000,000 drams has been handed over to Armenian authorities. In a statement, the Armenian General Prosecution only released the initials of the fugitive M.M. The fugitives transfer to Yerevan was ensured by Armenian police officers. Protesters hold placards calling for the protection of Kelantan Sharia law while reciting prayers in front of the Palace of Justice complex in Putrajaya, Feb. 9, 2024. Malaysias top court on Friday ruled that more than a dozen Islamic laws in Kelantan state were unconstitutional because they intruded on federal authority, in a decision that some conservative Muslim critics say could undermine the countrys Sharia legal system. In an 8-1 judgment, the Federal Court declared void and invalid 16 laws under the states criminal code, including sodomy, sexual harassment, intoxication, incest and defiling or destroying a place of worship. Chief Justice Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat said the verdict was not about the role of Islam or Sharia courts in Malaysia, but whether state legislatures had authority to pass laws listed under federal jurisdiction. Malaysia has a dual-track legal system, where Sharia courts interpret and apply Islamic law and secular courts rule on civil and criminal matters. Sharia laws are passed by state governments and secular laws by Parliament. The court ruled that only two of the 18 laws in dispute fell within the jurisdiction of Kelantans Sharia criminal code: selling or giving away children and words capable of breaking peace. Outside the courtroom, lawyer Nik Elin Zurina Nik Abdul Rashid, who filed the legal challenge with her daughter, said the decision showed states must exercise caution when using their legislative powers. It also shows that the federal constitution is supreme, she said at a press conference. Its for the well-being of all [Malaysians] and has nothing to do with the doctrine of Islam, as decided by the court. It concerns the competency of the state legislative assembly. I do not do this for myself but for all Malaysians, even when I was completely vilified, scorned, and condemned. Nik Elin Zurina Nik Abdul Rashid speaks to the media at the Palace of Justice complex in Putrajaya, Feb. 9, 2024. [S. Mahfuz/BenarNews] About 70% of the Malaysian population are Malays, all of whom are considered Muslim. Ethnic Chinese comprise 22.8% of the population, and ethnic Indians make up 6.6%. Kelantan, a rural state in northeast Malaysia near Thailand, is governed by the hardline Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS), which advocates for a stricter interpretation of Islamic law. Thousands of Muslims had gathered outside the courthouse in the administrative capital of Putrajaya Friday morning ahead of the decision. Amid chants of Allahu Akbar, opposition leaders from the Perikatan Nasional coalition also made an appearance. In response to the decision, Kelantan deputy chief minister Mohamed Fadzli Hassan said his team would seek an audience with the Sultan of Kelantan, Sultan Muhammad V, to discuss the matter. We have formed a committee to study the decision made and we will scrutinize it. This won't stop here, he told reporters. This is a concern not just for the Kelantan government; it affects all states and governments. Protesters shout Allahu Akbar (God is great) while waiting for the court decision outside the Palace of Justice complex in Putrajaya, Feb. 9, 2024. [S. Mahfuz/BenarNews] Immediately after the ruling, Malaysias Religious Affairs Minister Mohd Naim issued a statement saying the position of the Sharia court in Malaysia is steadfast, with its status guaranteed as clearly stated in the Constitution. Several adjustments to existing plans will be done in line with this judgment, he said. We will implement all existing avenues and opportunities to empower the Sharia courts.Salim Bashir, a former president of the Malaysian Bar, said the Federal Court decision addressed the issue of overlapping of jurisdictions between civil and Sharia courts for criminal offenses in Kelantan. It doesn't mean that all state Sharia-promulgated criminal laws will be rendered otiose or displaced; it still remains to be tested in every given case on a case-by-case basis, he told BenarNews. A camp for internally displaced people in Myanmar is seen from across the Moei river in Mae Sot, western Thailand, as Thai Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara inspected the staging area from where Bangkok plans to send cross border aid to those people, Feb. 8, 2024. [Jintamas Saksornchai/AP] UPDATED at 9:23 a.m. ET on 2024-02-12 Thailand will establish a humanitarian safe zone and deliver aid to displaced people living on its border with wartorn Myanmar, the Thai foreign minister said Friday, a move Bangkok hopes will achieve the larger goal of establishing dialogue between the Burmese junta, ethnic armed groups and the civilian government-in-exile. The plan will serve some 20,000 people in three towns in Myanmar, Foreign Minister Parnpree Phahitthanukorn said at a press conference in Mae Sot. Thailand plans to begin delivering food and medical supplies within a month, he said. Fierce fighting during Myanmars civil war, sparked by a military coup in February 2021, has forced more than 2.6 million people across the country to flee their homes, according to United Nations estimates. As of Jan. 29, roughly 190,000 of them are in Kayin and Kayah states, along the western border of Thailand, according to the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees, or UNHCR. It is good to have a chance to observe the area here in Mae Sot. It is suitable to be a base for humanitarian assistance, which will happen soon, Parnpree said Friday about the visit to the border. Thailand has not disclosed the exact location of the safe zone. Thai Minister of Foreign Affairs Parnpree Phitthanukorn (in gray jacket) at the Rim Moei market in Mae Sot, Thailand, during a visit to the Thai-Myanmar border, Feb. 9, 2024. [RFA] The Thai and Myanmar Red Cross Societies will implement the plan, monitored by the Coordinating Center for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or ASEAN. It remains unclear if Myanmars junta has agreed with Thailands aid delivery plan. The Thai foreign ministry has also not engaged in dialogue with ethnic armed groups yet, Parnpree said during the press conference. Urging dialogue Since the 2021 coup, the 10-member ASEAN has expressed disappointment that Myanmar has been unable to meet a five-point consensus, which included ending violence in the country, facilitating dialogue between all parties and humanitarian assistance by ASEAN. Following the ASEAN foreign ministers meeting on Jan. 29 in Laos, Thai Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow expressed hope that the aid would be seen as a non-political initiative. Aid delivery is a good start to approaching the conflict, political analyst Panitan Wattanayagorn told Radio Free Asia (RFA) on Friday, but added that ASEAN members were concerned about political consequences. Once you deliver some of the assistance to one group, other groups that are fighting with that group could see it as an assistance for this group to fight against them, he said. So this is a very sensitive and political issue anyway, although the Thais try to say its not a political issue. And this is what ASEAN members, many of them, are very concerned [about]. They didnt know how and in what way this aid could be non-political. Thailands former administration was admonished by Indonesias minister of foreign affairs in 2023 for holding talks with the junta after the bloc began excluding high-level Myanmar officials from its meetings from the months following the coup. RFA called ASEANs Coordinating Center for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management for comment on their oversight of the project, but they did not respond by the time of publication. Others working on border aid have called for expanded aid delivery, highlighting the immense need along bordering Kayah state as well. The people are starving over there, Chalida Tajaroensuk, director of the Peoples Empowerment Foundation. The situation near Kayin state has simmered down so the government should consider expanding the relief aid delivery up north soon. Radio Free Asia, a news organization affiliated with BenarNews, produced this report. This updated version corrects the spelling of the name for the Thai foreign minister. If you'd like to leave a comment (or a tip or a question) about this story with the editors, please email us We also welcome letters to the editor for publication; you can do that by filling out our letters form and submitting it to the newsroom. YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 9, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan sent a congratulatory message to Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on the occasion of assuming the post of the Head of the Government, the Prime Minister's Office said. The message states: "I warmly congratulate you on assuming the position of the Head of the Government of Georgia and wish you success in serving this important and responsible mission for the benefit of Georgia and the Georgian people. The development and deepening of multifaceted cooperation with friendly Georgia is one of the priorities of the Armenian government's foreign policy. I believe that establishing a strategic partnership between the Republic of Armenia and Georgia will reveal new horizons for further expanding bilateral cooperation in all fields. I reaffirm the readiness of the Armenian government and myself to cooperate closely with your government for the benefit of our countries and brotherly peoples." Rep. Kathleen James is an Assistant Majority Leader and ranking member of the House General and Housing Committee. She represents Manchester, Arlington, Sandgate and part of Sunderland. You can reach her by email: KJames@leg.state.vt.us and sign up for her newsletter at kathjamesforstaterep.com. Opinions expressed by columnists do not necessarily reflect the views of Vermont News & Media. As a child with a July birthday, Kathryn Andersen Days presents were tickets to Tanglewood to see violin soloists. Among them were Itzhak Perlman, Midori and Joshua Bell. She herself took up the instrument in the third grade at Allendale Elementary School. Her first teacher was Alla Zernitskaya. By the time she was a senior at Pittsfield High School in 2003, she knew she wanted to pursue a life in music but wasnt exactly sure of how it would take shape. The Daniel Pearl Berkshire Scholarship Who is it for: Berkshire-area students who intend to major in journalism or music are eligible to apply. Who is eligible: The 2024 award is open to high school seniors planning to continue higher education in the fall or to people who graduated in 2022 or 2023 and deferred college enrollment for one or two gap years but plan to enter college in 2024 or to people planning to enter college in the fall of 2024 following a period of active military service. Residence requirement: Graduates of any public or private may qualify if you maintained a home residence during your senior year in Berkshire County; Canaan, Conn.; Pownal, Readsboro or Stamford Vt.; Canaan, New Lebanon, Berlin or Stephentown, N.Y. Award: $2,000 Deadline: midnight April 22. Applications must be received by email to bschmick@berkshireeagle.com Other requirements: A certified transcript of high school grades, two letters of recommendation, a typed or printed essay, evidence of acceptance to an accredited college or university offering a course of study focused on journalism or music. The application can be found at bit.ly/42xsXIo Questions: Contact Barbara Schmick at 413-496-6167. Partly inspired by its generous award, she applied for the Daniel Pearl Berkshire Scholarship. I don't think I could have predicted all of the incredible opportunities and memories that would come from the education that I received as made possible by the Daniel Pearl Scholarship, Day said. It allowed her to think bigger, beyond our wonderful life in Pittsfield, to what else was possible. Pearl was a reporter for The North Adams Transcript and The Eagle. He went on to The Wall Street Journal. In 2002, as chief of its South Asia bureau in Bombay, while working on a story about terrorism, he was kidnapped and killed in Pakistan. The scholarship was established the following year and Day was its first recipient. In addition to being a journalist, Pearl was trained as a classical violinist. He played guitar and mandolin. While living in the Berkshires, he performed in a Bluegrass band. Day was inspired by Pearls passion for his work. I knew I wanted to find something that made me excited to work and live every day, she said. Today, at 38, Day is The Juilliard Schools associate director of K-12 music programs. With a team, she writes and prepares curriculum, traveling globally to work with music teachers and provide professional development. In her work, she frequently draws upon her experience in the Berkshires, starting with Zernitskaya, who imparted a poise and ease in her technique that has allowed her to pursue her passion for the instrument without injury. In her middle school years, Day played with the Pittsfield High School Chamber Orchestra, a commitment that forced her to rehearse prior to starting her own school day. And in high school, she was named concertmaster of the Empire State Youth Orchestra in Albany, N.Y., which she took on with some trepidation, wondering whether you can lead the orchestra the way you think you should and the way you hope you can. She grew to love the role. After receiving her bachelors degree in music at Harvard College and her master's in music at The Juilliard School, Day returned to the Berkshires as a Tanglewood Music Fellow for three summers. Performing on those stages, she said, where Id grown up envying those who were there, was just an incredible feeling. Daytime at Tanglewood was also inspiring: walking across campus, talking and rehearsing with musicians from the Boston Symphony Orchestra, faculty and other fellows. I just was so motivated to keep learning and learning more, she said. In 2016, Day was in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, visiting a Juilliard collaborating school. While there, she was invited to visit the Cambodian Childrens Fund. I wasnt quite sure what I was going to do, she said. Her visit included a tour of what she called the last safety net for children and families of Phnom Penh, the least fortunate of the least fortunate. The charity was founded on an old garbage dump, Day said, and many of these children and families were first found and identified as being in need because they were scavenging. She played violin while the children and families had their meal of rice and remembers the kindness among teenagers there as well. Speaking about the experience, Days voice catches with emotion. "The trust and love that these children had for me as a stranger just blew me away, she said. That visit imparted a certain perspective on her life. I can't tell you how often I think about that experience, and how fortunate I feel for the life I have and what I'm able to do, mostly through my music, but through all the opportunities I've had," she said. "And I think it really goes back to experiences growing up with the education I've had and the work I've been able to do through music. In 2017, Day met a trumpeter living in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He was invited to play a concert at a school in Thailand associated with Juilliard, and Day was asked to liaise that engagement. And he took a liking as did I, Day said. I found myself dressing up on the days when I would meet with him. And about a year after we first met, he asked me out. A year and a half after that we were engaged. On Oct. 26, 2019, Liam Day and Kathryn Andersen married at the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art with his father officiating. A New York band played. Now residents of New York City, they are the parents of Hudson, a 3-year-old, whom they bring to Tanglewood, and theyre expecting a second boy in May. Today, as a teacher, Day has certain goals in mind. I'm always trying in my work to infuse this curiosity and creativity in students to know more, and to express themselves to their full capacity through music, Day said. And I think it's certainly something that started with Alla, she said, referring to her first teacher. But it's something that teachers and my experience has continued to develop in me as a musician. "If I can help someone plant that seed for younger students who maybe otherwise wouldn't have access to it, then I've been successful in my work. Who is it for: Berkshire-area students who intend to major in journalism or music are eligible to apply. Who is eligible: The 2024 award is open to high school seniors planning to continue higher education in the fall or to people who graduated in 2022 or 2023 and deferred college enrollment for one or two gap years but plan to enter college in 2024 or to people planning to enter college in the fall of 2024 following a period of active military service. Residence requirement: Graduates of any public or private may qualify if you maintained a home residence during your senior year in Berkshire County; Canaan, Conn.; Pownal, Readsboro or Stamford Vt.; Canaan, New Lebanon, Berlin or Stephentown, N.Y. Award: $2,000 Deadline: midnight April 22. Applications must be received by email to bschmick@berkshireeagle.com Other requirements: A certified transcript of high school grades, two letters of recommendation, a typed or printed essay, evidence of acceptance to an accredited college or university offering a course of study focused on journalism or music. The application can be found here. Questions: Contact Barbara Schmick at 413-496-6167. PITTSFIELD Harrys Supermarket, which closed after a July fire left significant damage at the Wahconah Street business, is up for sale. The grocery store at 290 Wahconah St. has been a community staple for over a century, but has sat shuttered since the structure fire that began near an old cooler inside the market. The ensuing blaze caused heavy smoke damage in the building. In addition, firefighting efforts left windows broken and a hole cut for ventilation purposes in the roof. In August, Jake Wark, a spokesperson for the state Fire Marshals Office, said the cause of the fire was deemed officially undetermined, but was not considered suspicious. He said the investigation likely wouldn't be reopened unless an insurance claim was filed. Jim McRory, the primary agent handling the property for Berkshire County Realty Co., confirmed the building was for sale with a price listed at $799,000. That includes its over 8,000 square feet between the businesss first floor and basement, plus two parking lots. It has been up for sale for about two weeks, he said. Anyone interested in purchasing the property can call McRory at 413-441-2898. The business had been owned by Sam and Ravikant Ravi Patel since 2021. The building was valued at $750,000 when it was sold two years ago. Previously, it had been owned for generations by the family of Harry F. Nichols Sr., who founded the business as a small variety store in 1914 after immigrating to the United States from Lebanon. The grocery store opened six months later, followed by a package store in 1933. In 1956, the variety store was converted into a pharmacy, and the grocery store became a supermarket in July 1957. In 1967, the Nichols family completed an addition that almost doubled the size of the Wahconah Street market. The family operated a second supermarket in the former A&P store on Elm Street for 16 years; that store closed in 2012, and the building has since been razed. The original store has been a steady presence in the Wahconah Street neighborhood, even garnering a community mural called The North End Remembers on its side. Kyle Lussier, an employee of Capital Restoration Services, said that his company has been clearing out the store since August. The bones of the structure are still intact, he said, but the interior sheetrock, electrical work and plumbing have all been taken out. Its pretty much an empty building at this point, he said. McRory confirmed that the building has been gutted, and prospective buyers should expect to face a total rehabilitation. YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 9, ARMENPRESS. The meeting of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan and the Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs of France Stephane Sejourne has commenced in Paris, the foreign ministry said. ''The Armenian Foreign Minister has arrived in France. The meeting of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan and the Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs of France Stephane Sejourne which encompasses a wide range of issues pertaining to both bilateral partnership and regional issues has launched," the statement reads. Stay up to date on Berkshires news with Berkshires in Brief, our free daily newsletter NORTH ADAMS The Berkshire Family YMCA is leaving its building in North Adams, though it says some programming will remain in Northern Berkshire County. More than 30 years after state Rep. John Barrett III, D-North Adams, then-mayor of the city, stepped in and stopped the Y from closing its doors in North Adams due to financial troubles, a confluence of factors including a deteriorating building that shut down two of the Ys most important programs will soon render the city-owned building empty. In essence, the city asked that the Y come to the table to discuss a lease. Considering the state of the building, and a needed repair for the roof over the pool, the Y decided to step away, saying it will leave at the end of March/beginning of April. Christian Bianchi, interim CEO and executive director of the Berkshire Family YMCA, said there are too many maintenance needs and moving parts to come up with an equitable lease. The biggest reason were leaving is, A, the buildings not in good enough shape to come up with any formal lease agreement that would be beneficial for each party involved, Bianchi said. Thats led to staffing concerns. The third piece of it is, I think the YMCA running in Northern Berkshire was being defined by a failing building. The beautiful part about the YMCA is, its way bigger than a building. Its a mission, its a concept. Mayor Jennifer Macksey confirmed that the city had approached the Y with a generic lease and "asked them to draft it in terms of what would be advantageous for them." They came back and said, Were going to go with this new concept, were going to leave the building. When you figure out the needs of the building, maybe we can come back,'" she said. While the city owns the building, and as landlord, its up to the city to carry out repairs, over the years, the city hasnt, Macksey said. Theres nothing Im dodging, thats why Im doing the roofing project, Macksey said. She pointed out that the Y hasnt had a formal lease agreement with the city in something like 30 years. Theyre paying the utilities and whatever repairs they do internally, she said. Theyve had a sweet deal. ROOF Macksey said she was disappointed that the Y decided to leave shortly after the city committed to making a big investment and repairing the Northern Berkshire Ys failing roof. I just feel that the YMCA leadership has given up on the North Adams facility when they finally have a mayor that wants to work with them and move that building forward, Macksey said. After a difficult process of landing a contractor, the city settled on Geary Builders to carry out the work of fixing the roof. The Northern Berkshire branch of the Berkshire Family Y has generally had issues of late, beginning with the closing of its pool following a routine roof inspection that flagged structural concerns. In October, the Berkshire Family Y announced that the Northern Berkshire YMCA would temporarily stop offering child care, citing inadequate staff to comply with state regulations. The Y also recently shortened its hours in North Adams. Because of deferred maintenance, and not solely because of it, weve had staffing issues, Bianchi said. Our child care got suspended because of the deferred maintenance. Two of our biggest assets in Northern Berkshire, child care and the pool, weve survived and thrived on in Northern Berkshire for years, and are now closed. Both Bianchi and Macksey say its possible the Y could return and run the pool once its fixed this summer. But its not a sure thing. At that point, if our people deem its safe to operate in that building, we will definitely consider doing so, Bianchi said. PROGRAMMING Bianchi said the Y is exhausting all options in its search for potential community nonprofit partners to help it deliver its programming, including potentially operating in North Adams Public Schools, and talking with the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts about being a partner for summer camp. We saw about 40 families a day in North Adams for before- and after- school programming, so we know thats a very important need for the community, and were going to continue to do that, he said. While the Y is promoting a Y Without Walls concept, meaning leaving the building but still likely operating school-age programs and camp in the city, Macksey was at first reticent to facilitate the change. She made clear that she doesnt want the Y to leave the building, but came around on certain partnerships with the city that will keep Y programming in the area. Bianchi said the Y doesnt yet fully know the answer to whether employees are going to lose their jobs. Hes optimistic the Y will keep its staff serving school-age children on since those programs are continuing. The Y is still planning on hiring counselors for the summer, as well. Theres the potential to lose a few fitness instructors and a few other part-time people, however, we will be offering for them to stay on if they want to go to Bennington (Vt.) or Pittsfield, Bianchi said. Northern Berkshire Y-only members will have their memberships terminated once the Y departs the building. DISAPPOINTMENT Barrett was bereft at the news. He believes more couldve been done to salvage the Ys operations in the building. He recalled saving the Y in the '90s by getting the city council to quickly approve roughly $350,000 to buy the building and the land. He said that during his tenure, the Y paid for utilities and $500 a month, which would go into a stabilization fund for needed repairs. I dont know what happened to that plan in 2010 when I left, but I do know it was operating, he said. Since then, nobody has taken care of the YMCA. The point being, Im really disappointed in what is happening here. Bianchi confirmed the original agreement, but since Barrett left the mayor's office, I dont know historically how well the Y has honored the deal, and I dont know how well the city has done with sending out invoices," Bianchi said. "Neither side really held themselves accountable," Bianchi added. Barrett recently secured an earmark of $100,000 for building repairs. He noted the importance of the Y to the community. He hasnt given up hope that there could be some eleventh-hour solution like the one the city pulled off decades ago. Bianchi praised Barretts decision to buy the building, calling it a great thing for him to do and admirable on a lot of different levels. He extended the lifeline of the Berkshire Family Y building for more than 30 years now, Bianchi said. Over the years, deferred maintenance happened. Even divvying up responsibilities became more complex and hard to decipher. Donald Morrison is an Eagle columnist and co-chairman of the advisory board. The opinions expressed by columnists do not necessarily reflect the views of The Berkshire Eagle. The making of anticommunist memory politics 9. 2. 2024 / Muriel Blaive cas cteni 13 minut From Paris to Prague, from the extreme left to the extreme right Many thanks to Gerard-Danial Cohen for his critical comments. This text results from a presentation at the workshop After Critical Theory? convened at Queen Mary University London by Eric Heinze, 2 February 2024. Many thanks to him as well. May 1968 in Paris must have been great fun. Beneath the cobblestones lies the beach claimed the slogan: believers in Marxism, Leninism, Maoism, Trotskyism, and just about any other leftist ideology joined forces to throw themselves at the archaic and authoritarian De Gaulle rule. Energetic youths occupied universities, set up barricades, and fought the police in epic battles that left seven people dead, while the country went on general strike for weeks. While this level of violence might not be very commendable, and the naivete of the political ideals might make us shake our head in disbelief, especially as seen from Prague where people were already by then substantially wiser to the destructive potential of these ideologies, the intentions were noble enough. The movement did profoundly change French society for the better, from a very conservative society to one that was more open-minded, tolerant, and (self-)reflexive. Translating ebullient idealism into a useful reflection on power In the aftermath of May 1968, an ideological diversification among these youthful extreme left activists occurred, with a faction persisting in their defense of Mao Zedong, Vietnam, Cambodia, and related causes, while some others moved their advocacy towards the realm of historical memory . The activists and academics engaged on this path jointly decried for instance, in a rejection of nationalism, the prevailing official reticence surrounding the complicity of the French state in the deportation of Jews during World War II and in the perpetration of massacres during colonial rule, particularly in Algeria. This general interest in historical memory also led to the inception of the renowned Lieux de memoire book series, the inaugural volume of which was published by Pierre Nora in 1984, and manifested itself in the seminal film Shoah by Claude Lanzmann in 1985. By 1990, the first memory law, one prohibiting the denial of crimes against humanity, first and foremost the Holocaust, was enacted a law instigated by Minister Claude Gayssot, who was not too coincidentally a Communist. The ensuing decade featured trials against erstwhile Vichy officials Paul Touvier and Maurice Papon, as well as the pivotal acknowledgment in 1995 of the French state's culpability in the deportation of its Jewish population, finally acknowledging at the state level what had been conscientiously taught in French schools for years if not decades. Concurrently, critiques of the archival policy governing access to Second World War records and pleading for their wider opening gained traction. In 2001, two additional memory laws were promulgated, thus underscoring an enduring commitment in France to reckon with and legislate upon the nation's historical legacy. We thus see a deliberate engagement with the past in France over several decades, the confrontation of latent historical specters, and the synthesis of history and memory to formulate a normative historiographical narrative. What is to be noted here is that this narrative ostensibly emanated from the left. While this collective project was imbued with good intentions, some of us historians were already in the 1990s uneasy with its ostensible moral rectitude was it really necessary to enact memory laws that dictated to people not only what to say, but what to think? Would it not have been better to teach history with all the necessary dedication so that no one would even think of denying the existence of the Holocaust? Historian Henry Rousso, who was at the time head of the Institute of Contemporary History in Paris (IHTP), especially criticized the notion of duty of memory. Amusingly, in 1989, this left-leaning narrative hit a conservative counterpoint in the form of Francis Fukuyama's end of history thesis, which was not a categorical assertion that historical events would cease to unfold, but rather the contention that the ideological ascendancy of democracy and capitalism had attained a seemingly irreversible domination. Fukuyama posited that even within non-democratic and non-capitalistic regimes, a semblance of adherence to these principles prevailed, rendering them as the de facto unsurpassable intellectual and normative framework of the time. This framework would find a new alternative really only with 9/11. Fukuyama was much derided in France, yet he spelled a new era, one in which capitalism stopped being a dirty word even in leftist circles. Instead, the world embraced the new mass consumption culture with relish. This is perhaps the reason why the left started to shift from defending economic equality, a dream that was now losing all traction, towards defending and defining identity via the development of critical theory. 1989 and the paradigmatic shift of the Western left With this context in mind, let us consider the watershed collapse of communism in Central Europe in 1989, whose influence on the development of the Western left participated to the same movement. If I take the example of France and the Czech Republic, the fall of communism engendered a paradigmatic shift in which the French historiography and memory issues I just described became germane to nascent Czech and other Central European post-communist memory politics. All the themes evoked above, i.e. memory construction, justice, archival imperatives, the dynamics of suffering recognition, the exigency of confronting historical legacies, and the cultivation of a coherent state narrative suddenly assumed great pertinence in Prague, too. In turn, France witnessed a significant intellectual recalibration on the part of a number of somewhat discomfited intellectuals, particularly historians. Previously entrenched within the left, some found themselves in an intellectual quandary, all the more so if they were already harboring doubts since Budapest in 1956, Prague in 1968, or Warsaw in 1981. With the crisis and fall of communism, a few embarked upon a private or public path of self-criticism (as they had been dutifully instructed in their communist youth), mutating shortly before or shortly after 1989 into fervent anticommunists. Eminent historian Francois Furet, for instance, published memoirs which reflected their revised perspectives. One of the most noteworthy endeavors within this intellectual landscape is the collaborative effort led by a formerly Maoist activist who belonged exactly to the 1968 generation I described above, who meanwhile became historian, Stephane Courtois. This effort resulted in his seminal edited work The Black Book of Communism (1997.) The volume purported to provide a comprehensive assessment of global communist repression, and is the outlet that first introduced the famous claim of 100 million victims of communism. Even before publication, Courtois, cognizant of the inflated figure's untenability, revised it downward to 80 million too late, the narrative of 100 million victims was already set in international public stone and it remained there despite the fact that these figures are highly contentious among historians of communism themselves, not least of whom with Nicolas Werth, who wrote the seminal part about the Soviet Union in this very book and who angrily publicized his breakup with Courtois. Evolving ideologies, evolving figures Figures were adapted to suit this change of perspective. I will take here as an example the chapter of Karel Bartosek, a French-Czech historian himself marked by fervent Stalinist sympathies in his youth, who now completed his metamorphosis and aligned with the anticommunist narrative. In the Black Book of Communism, he spoke of 250,000 Czechoslovak victims. This figure is starkly incongruent with the actual casualty toll, which is ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 deaths (which is, needless to say, 3 to 5,000 deaths too many.) In reality, Bartosek played on the ambiguity of the term victim since it did not define what a victim was, the public assumed it meant dead, while what it meant was people who were condemned on the basis of law 231/1948, more than half of which were fines, not prison sentences and even less judicial murders or deaths ((not that they don't deserve respect in any case.) The disjuncture in scale with the Nazi occupation of Czechoslovakia, which left 360,000 actual fatalities, is of more than 1 to 50, possibly closer to 1 to 100. To inflate the figures of communist repression so radically is all the more dishonest intellectually that one does not need to inflate the figures of Stalinist repression in Czechoslovakia and elsewhere to convincingly analyze the intrinsically repressive dimension of communism. But when conservative circles do inflate figures, their motivation is hardly historical. What they really aimed to achieve was to discredit the whole left, not only the communists, and disqualify them as political opponents not opponents at some distant point in history, but political opponents in the post-1989 regime. When the morally virtuous French narrative meets the anticommunist Czech narrative So we find here an unexpected confluence and interplay between a multi-kulti leftist-derived culture of memory and repentance, characterized by a pronounced duty of memory, and an emergent anticommunist narrative. The transfer of this narrative was carried out by scholars conversant with both sides of the cultural divide (Stephane Courtois, Karel Bartosek) thanks to the fact that they transitioned from the extreme left in Western Europe (Courtois is a self-declared former Maoist; Bartosek hovered around the extreme left circle of the journal Lalternative when he arrived in France before taking it over and changing it to La nouvelle alternative in 1986, adapting to the impending collapse of the extreme left) to the anticommunist right or extreme-right in post-communist Central Europe and were familiar with both the French and the communist and post-communist contexts. What is important to understand is that they transposed the self-righteous form of the narrative, but inverted the contents. While this historical memory and ideological realignment was negotiated in intellectual spheres after 1989, an arguably more important concern emerged in transitional Central Europe in the form of economic reforms that precipitated widespread popular impoverishment and a surge in economic inequality. Focusing here on the Czech Republic's chronology, not even a decade after the Velvet Revolution the reemergence of the social-democratic party (CSSD) and even of the communist party (KSCM) coincided with public discontent spurred by the economic crisis and with public outrage at the growing corruption of political elites. Considerable public pressure on the conservative right led in 1997 to Vaclav Klaus demise from the post of Prime Minister, which he had held since 1992. We can thus appreciate how the Black Book of Communism fell from the sky for the Czech conservatives (ODS) and emerged as a pivotal political tool. Right on cue, it offered a propitious narrative that pinned culpability for all societal post-communist predicaments on the past or present left and never mind that under this new narrative, the suffering endured by the Czech population during the communist era was magnified more than fifty-fold. This is how and why memory politics in Czechia and more generally in Central Europe assumed an increasingly anticommunist, parochial, and conservative orientation during the 2000s. Irony abounds as, I remind, Central European conservative political actors adopted nothing but the cosmopolitan, morally virtuous narrative structure initially crafted by the Western left in the 1970s and 1980s a narrative characterized, as we saw, by its normative, justice-oriented, and mnemonic framing. The memory of the Shoah, originally conceived as a culture of human rights, was now made to fit, in the context of the original hope and enthusiasm for the new enlarged Europe, into a politically instrumentalized narrative. In other words, the memorial revolution inspired by sincere, if at times slightly irritating, normative concerns, was politically instrumentalized to become the tool of the anticommunist right and even far right, especially in Poland and Hungary. To complete this circle of irony, Laure Neumayer has shown that the accession of Visegrad countries to the European Union provided the opportunity to leverage the moral imperative surrounding Holocaust recognition and memory legislation in an anticommunist direction. The Visegrad countries used this paradigm to push for a moral equivalence between Nazism and communism, with, it has been argued, a latent agenda in Hungary, Poland, and Romania to relativize the Holocaust by challenging its uniqueness. Admittedly, his was not the primary intent in the case of the Czech Republic there, the primary aim was to relativize the suffering and casualties caused by the expulsion of the Sudeten Germans in 1945-46. The point is, nowhere was it to promote collective awareness and face responsibilities as had been the case in France in the 1970s and 1980s. Conclusion: adopting the cool Western narrative of reckoning with the past had its own agenda The appropriation of formerly Western values in their form if not in their intention was complete. Czech law 405/2000 which punishes the denial not only of the Holocaust anymore, but also of an unspecified communist genocide by imprisonment for up to three years, is a pertinent illustration of this incongruous cultural transfer. No scholar has ever seriously defended that a communist genocide took place in Czechoslovakia; on the contrary, as I underlined above, the scale of victims is of almost 1 to 100 in comparison to Nazism (and more to the point, of approximately 1 to 10 in comparison to the expelled Sudeten Germans.) There were of course at least two documented communist genocides in the world: one in Ukraine (the Holodomor), and one in Cambodia. But it is of doubt that the Czech lawmaker primarily meant to protect the memory of the Ukrainian Holodomor, let alone of the Cambodian genocide, which are of very little interest to the Czech voter: what it did have in mind was to enter the club of prospective tolerant EU nations and to promote, on the surface, the prerequisite EU grammar of reconciliation. That it created its own declension to promote a narrative of competitive victimhood with Western Europe at the risk of both inflating the figures of communist repression and relativizing the Holocaust was a historical bonus which might not have been entirely calculated. A paradox is that Czech proponents of anticommunism who are simultaneously starch defenders of Holocaust memory such as Michael Zantovsky and Michal Klima found themselves defending a narrative that is potentially relativizing the Holocaust without even realizing it. Memory is political and it is constantly reshaped by the present; history is political, too, its methodology is in fact a war zone in Czechia and in the rest of Central Europe today it is enough to observe the debate around everyday life history as a historical methodology, which is as ideological as Stalinism ever was. Transnational and transcultural memory politics show that history is always instrumentalized, sometimes in a more methodological and reflexive way and with praiseworthy ends to promote societal reconciliation , often with less than honorable political motives. 0 Borsa Italiana non ha responsabilita per il contenuto del sito a cui sta per accedere e non ha responsabilita per le informazioni contenute. Accedendo a questo link, Borsa Italiana non intende sollecitare acquisti o offerte in alcun paese da parte di nessuno. Sarai automaticamente diretto al link in cinque secondi. YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 9, ARMENPRESS. The Office of the High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs of the Republic of Armenia continues to accept applications for the iGorts 2024 program. This year, the fifth cohort of specialists from the Diaspora will be recruited to work in over 20 Armenian government entities for one year. Applications for the year 2024 will be accepted until March 4th in Armenian, English, and Russian. Successful candidates who pass the final round of interviews will commence their work in the respective entities starting from September 1 of this year, the Office of the High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs said in a statement. "Participants in the program will receive a round-trip air ticket to and from Armenia, a monthly salary of 336,000 drams throughout the program, health insurance, and coverage of the residence permit fee for one year. Through funding provided by the H. Hovnanian Family Foundation, five specialists will be afforded the opportunity to engage in the program and work within the Shirak province. Candidates can submit their applications through the website of the Office of the High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs by following this link: http://diaspora.gov.am/en/programs/25/fellowship. The program was added to the Repository of Practices of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and showcased as an exemplary initiative during the EU Future Forum. For any inquiries, please feel free to contact the Office of the High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs at [email protected].'' Idahos longest-serving death row inmate is pleading for another clemency hearing after the previous one ended in a tie vote yet the state governor has already declared he has zero intention of taking any action that would halt or delay his execution. Thomas Eugene Creech, 73, was sentenced to death over four decades ago after he was convicted of killing fellow prison inmate, 23-year-old David Dale Jensen, by beating him to death with a sock filled with batteries and stomping on his face and neck, the Ada County Prosecutors office said in a news release. Creech, who was already serving four life sentences at the time, pleaded guilty to murdering Jensen. The prosecutors office branded Mr Creech as a serial killer, who has had five murder convictions, one in California, one in Oregon and three in Idaho. Prosecutors also suspect him in the killing of an additional six victims and he has allegedly admitted to killing at least 40 people. A state parole board voted 3-3 last month on a request sent by Creech to have his sentence changed to life without parole after one of its members recused himself from the case. Now, Creech is asking for a new hearing after it ended in a tie, according to The Associated Press. In Idaho, a majority of the board must vote in favour of clemency in order for the recommendation to be sent to the governor, yet the state rules say that the governor can also overrule these recommendations. The governor of Idaho, Brad Little, said in a statement last week that it is his duty to ensure that lawful criminal sentences are carried out. As governor, I have zero intention of taking any action that would halt or delay Creechs execution, he said. His lawful and just sentence must be carried out as ordered by the court. Justice has been delayed long enough. Creech was put on death row in 1981 after beating a fellow inmate to death (Idaho Department of Corrections) Creechs attorneys have argued that having one board member absent was unfair, as an inmate would have had to convince a majority to get a recommendation, but instead, he had to try and convince two-thirds, the outlet said. Story continues One member should have stepped aside, or another one should have been appointed to fill the seventh place, they said. Last month, the prosecutors office said that Creech is also suspected in the 1974 murder of Daniel A Walker in California. Creech has not been charged in connection to the case. Deborah A. Czuba, supervising attorney for the Capital Habeas Unit of the Federal Defender Services of Idaho which represents Creech, said that the state has not provided evidence for declaring Creech guilty of Walkers killing and that the claim led to his clemency being denied. The commision was told that a vote for clemency would mean Mr Creech got away with another murder, she said. The inflammatory allegation was patently false. The investigation into Mr Walkers murder is still open. But the damage was done. In the commissions eyes, Mr Creech was on the hook for a new crime. For years, Creech has stunned prosecutors and judges for years due to the severity of his crimes and confessions. In 1993, former US Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day OConnor wrote in an opinion that Creechs case could not be more chilling. His clemency hearing also saw him being depicted as a sociopath with no regard for human life by Ada County deputy prosecutor Jill Longhurst, according to The Associated Press. However, his defence team has tried to show that Creech is a changed man, and the string of killings that have been connected to the death row inmate has been blown out of proportion. The Federal Defender Services of Idaho, which is representing Creech, said last month that statements that Mr Creech made to law enforcement officials decades ago under unclear circumstances and during a time period in which police officers from around the country were spoon-feeding Mr Creech information to try to clear cases based on the fantasy that he committed 50 murders, according to NBC. A video created to support his clemency also added Creech was remorseful and sorry for the crimes he committed, and if he could change it all he would. The video also included comments from a mental health clinician from the prison saying he was a model inmate and even an endorsement from the judge who sentenced him to death, saying that after 40 years on death row, executing him now would just be an act of vengeance. Seeking the death penalty in a capital case is not a decision that is taken lightly by any prosecutors office, the prosecutors office wrote in their January news release. The decision can be made only after a careful examination of the statutory factors as applied to the facts and circumstances. The facts and circumstances in Mr Creechs case warrant the death penalty to this day. An execution date for Creech has been scheduled for 28 February 2024, Idaho News 6 said. JAIPUR (PTI): The validation phase of 'SADA TANSEEQ', the first joint military exercise between the Indian Army and the Royal Saudi Land Force was completed at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges on Thursday, according to an official statement. The 12-day exercise from January 29 to February 9 was aimed at achieving interoperability between the two forces and acquaint each other with operational procedures and combat drills under the UN mandate, it said. The Indian contingent of the 20th Battalion of The Brigade of Guards Regiment and the Saudi Arabian contingent comprising a group of 45 soldiers participated in the exercise conducted in two phases. The first phase focused on combat conditioning and tactical training. The second culminated in physical exercises and validation. Both contingents jointly took part in the validation phase which included the creation of a temporary operating base, the establishment of an intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance grid and a mobile vehicle check post and carrying out cordon-and-search operations, heliborne operations and house intervention drills. The closing ceremony of the joint exercise will be held on Friday, the statement added. State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada Postal Code A local community has been praised by wildlife rescuers after a koala found itself "hanging precariously" from a power line. On Friday, Wildlife Victoria shared that the koala was spotted by residents in Moyne who quickly got a tarp to hold out underneath in case the koala fell and needed catching. In the meantime, others contacted the Emergency Response Team. "Moments like these showcase our communitys commitment to protecting our natural wildlife and it's incredibly heartwarming to see the community working together to keep our furry friends safe from harm," Wildlife Victoria said online. A koala was found hanging off a power line in Victoria. Source: Wildlife Victoria This koala was able to navigate its way back down the power pole and into the wild and Aussies online were thrilled to see such a positive outcome. "Oh my goodness! Hes so high up. Im glad to hear he crossed safely. What wonderful people to keep an eye on him," one person exclaimed. "Great compassion shown. Such a shame the lack of habitat (not many trees in that photo!) is creating issues such as this," another pointed out. Koalas mistake power poles for trees According to Wildlife Victoria, koalas have "powerful legs and claws" that help them climb most tall structures usually thinking it is a tree. "Like many of our native species, koalas are under pressure from habitat destruction and fragmentation," a spokesperson told Yahoo. "In areas devoid of trees, a koala may mistake power poles for tree trunks and climb in search of safety from threats on the ground." A Victorian and koala activist Helen Oakley previously told Yahoo News Australia some wrongly believe if they're seeing koalas out and about in the street or in urban areas, they must be thriving. Story continues "It's really hard for people to see the bigger picture. They just go 'oh, there's a cute little koala let's take photos'," she said. What to do if you find a koala in a similar situation If you see sick, injured or orphaned wildlife or trapped wildlife like in this case contact your local wildlife recuse. For those in Victoria you can call Wildlife Victorias 24/7 Emergency Response Service on 03 8400 7300. "We know that most Victorians love our wildlife and want to help," a spokesperson said. "Our Emergency Response Operators can provide specific advice on the species and situation, and can dispatch an experienced volunteer if required." Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. Cocoa prices soared to a new record on Friday, creating fresh concerns that the price of chocolate could be hiked in the run-up to Easter. The popular commodity has jumped in price by more than 40 per cent in just the last month, hitting 4,909 (5,751) per metric tonne on Friday, up from 3,443 on January 9th. On Friday alone the price jumped by more than 5 per cent on Londons ICE exchange. Advertisement Cocoa prices had already risen massively, from around 1,904 a year ago, and last month Cadburys warned that it was having to make carefully considered price increases. Making changes to the price of our products is always a last resort, however, costs across our supply chain have risen steeply, it said in a response to a customer on X, formerly Twitter. Advertisement Core ingredients we heavily rely on, like cocoa and sugar are a lot more expensive, while the cost of energy, packaging, and transport also remain high. As a result, we are having to make some carefully considered price increases across our range so we can continue to provide consumers with the brands they love without compromising on taste or quality. Advertisement Figures from the Central Statistics Office show the cost of cocoa and drinking chocolate in Ireland rose 12.9 per cent in the year to December 2023. Meanwhile, Nestle earlier this week said that it would no longer make Breakaway and Yorkie biscuit bars, citing falling sales. On Thursday, US producer Hersheys said that it was going to have to cut costs by $300 million (278 million) and warned it would miss market forecasts. "Panic is already very much in the market, but potentially we could move even higher," Rabobank analyst Paul Joules told Reuters. Advertisement "For me the real risk is next season. When we have crop tours in the second quarter, if the pod count is poor, people are going to question whether this is systemic," he added. Joules explained that diseases currently impacting cocoa trees in top producing region West Africa are a lot worse than they have been in recent years, and that there isn't treatment other than cutting trees out and replanting. TV presenter Kate Garraway has said she got a bit of flak on social media for laughing on air during her first day back at work following the death of her husband. The 56-year-old returned to host Good Morning Britain on Thursday, less than a week after the funeral of her husband Derek Draper. Advertisement Author and former political adviser Draper fell seriously ill during the early part of the Covid-19 pandemic in March 2020, and died last month aged 56 after suffering long-lasting symptoms from coronavirus. Larry Lamb and Kate share their experiences of grief, as Larry lost his brother to cancer in 2019. This comes ahead of the National Day of Reflection, which gives people the chance to remember loved ones lost during the pandemic. pic.twitter.com/vnJgjFKqOZ Good Morning Britain (@GMB) February 9, 2024 Advertisement Advertisement Garraway was speaking on Good Morning Britain (GMB) on Friday about grief alongside co-host Ben Shephard, actor Larry Lamb and bereavement counsellor Claire Collins, ahead of next months national day of reflection in the UK. She said: I got a bit of flak on social media yesterday for laughing with you as though that would imply I didnt care. But when you [are] laughing, youre laughing because you want the joy that that person brought to continue and you know that people watching at home have got troubles in their life and you want to share that joy with them. Advertisement So its a licence to laugh and to cry and to be all of those things. The first Sunday in March will be marked with a UK-wide day of reflection as people remember all those who died during the pandemic. Kate Garraway outside the funeral service of her husband Derek Draper at St Mary the Virgin church in Primrose Hill (Jonathan Brady/PA) EastEnders and Gavin & Stacey actor Lamb (76) who lost his brother to cancer in 2019, told GMB: My brother Wes would have been quite amused if he had known, he sort of slipped away before it all kicked off. Advertisement He was very very brave about it and made sure no-one was feeling bad for him. He wanted you just to have a laugh and joke with him as best he could. Advertisement And it was extraordinary for me to be there with him. Wed had a terrible time beforehand. We had drifted apart but that got us back together. It was lovely. I was able to be there with him sitting in his bed. They even rigged up a bed in the corner of the room for me at the Marie Curie hospice and let me sleep in the room with him. We havent slept in a room together for like 60 years. Lamb recalled how Wes had asked him for a kiss, adding: And we just became these two little boys. These monkeys who used to play together and we had a kiss and yeah, it was lovely. Advertisement The thing of all those people who missed the possibility of a moment like that, which is just like one of the most important memories of my life. Larry Lamb appeared on Good Morning Britain (Ian West/PA) Garraway said she still feels very numb and is only in the first stages of grief. She explained: We were talking around this time last year, about the day of reflection and the importance of it. And I mean, obviously, Im in a different place to talk about it now. And Im very aware of the sensation of grief, although also very aware that actually Im only at the first stages and theres so many different stages of it all. Advertisement But particularly aware of how tough it was for those in Covid, who hadnt got that wrap around, around them or the chance to have a funeral where they could hug loved ones and all of those things. Which I think, you know Ben, we talked about at the time, but I especially feel it now. Its so important to have that chance and this moment. There is no question of a human rights bodys action, alleging Ireland is failing to meet homeless asylum seekers needs, being heard before Easter, a High Court judge has said. Ms Justice Niamh Hyland asked the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission (IHREC) how it could seek an urgent hearing date during this legal term when it is looking to include 10 new affidavits in what will be quite a different case to what was originally mooted. Advertisement The move to withdraw affidavits based on accounts of anonymous international protection applicants and to replace them with 10 newly sworn statements from named applicants is unusual, the judge said. She will read the fresh documents before deciding whether they should be added. She said she gave permission last December for the rights watchdog to pursue its claims based on the affidavits originally presented to her but now a different course is being charted. Advertisement The State must have an opportunity to respond to the proposed introduction of very substantial, different evidence, she added. Advertisement Patricia Brazil SC, for IHREC, said the orders sought by her client do not rely on the 10 new documents but on a central affidavit sworn by the chief commissioner, Sinead Gibney. This affidavit remains in the case, although an excerpt that references claims from anonymous homeless asylum seekers has been withdrawn alongside other affidavits based on anonymous accounts. This, and the attempt to file 10 new sworn statements, comes in response to the State parties taking issue with the anonymisation of the asylum seekers whose accounts were referenced by the commission, she told the court. The case continues to be the one that was originally pleaded: that the State is failing in its obligations to meet the needs of the international protection applicants who are left homeless upon arrival, she said. Advertisement As this is a representative action brought on behalf of a fluid population of new arrivals, she said, the commission felt the court might want to receive references to the individuals facing these conditions. David Conlan Smyth SC, for the Minister for Integration, the Attorney General and Ireland, said his clients are very concerned about IHRECs unorthodox handling of the case. Advertisement While the State is not formally objecting to the inclusion of the 10 new filings, it cannot consent to the move, he said. His clients will need time to address the range of new claims that are made in these affidavits. Advertisement Ms Justice Hyland said representative actions are highly unusual in the Irish legal system. She will decide next week whether to admit the new evidence. The latest statistics from the Department of Integration show there are 742 adult males without accommodation. IHREC seeks mandatory orders that would require the Minister to establish a system that vindicates the fundamental rights of applicants. The State intends to argue it is meeting its obligations by providing the men it cannot accommodate with an enhanced payment of 113.80 per week along with other supports. The High Court ruled last April that the Minister breached his obligations to provide material reception conditions to an Afghan asylum seeker who had to resort to begging when he was homeless upon arriving here last February. Giving the homeless applicant a 28 Dunnes Stores voucher and addresses of private charities does not come close to what is required, Mr Justice Charles Meenan said. IHREC has said the crucial question in its case is whether the subsequent 75 increase to the weekly payment, along with other supports, meets requirements. A man who robbed a coffee shop in Dublin while holding a broken glass bottle has been sentenced to four years in prison, with a year and a half suspended. Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that Glen Conroy (35), of North Fredrick Street, Dublin 1, pleaded guilty to one count of robbery at the Triangle Coffee Shop, Donabate, Co Dublin, on June 25th last year. Advertisement He has 67 previous convictions, including five for robbery. Passing the sentence on Thursday, Judge Patricia Ryan said this was a very difficult and sad case. Judge Ryan said an aggravating factor was that a broken glass bottle was held by the defendant during the robbery. She noted the effects the robbery had on the injured parties and that money was demanded and taken. The judge said the mitigating factors included Conroys early guilty plea, his admissions, and his cooperation with gardai. Advertisement Advertisement She said the court heard and was familiar with Conroys family background and his childhood. Judge Ryan said the court has to mark the seriousness of this offence while also adopting best practices. She outlined that the maximum sentence available was life. She set a headline sentence of six years. Judge Ryan said this was a mid-range offence and sentenced Conroy to four years in prison, suspending the final 18 months for three years. She further placed Conroy under the supervision of the probation services for two years. She backdated this sentence from when he went into custody on this matter. Advertisement She noted that Conroy committed this offence on June 23rd, 2023, and that his mother died from cancer weeks earlier, on June 10. Robbery Garda Aishling Moore told Maddie Grant, BL, prosecuting, that she was on duty in a patrol car on the day in question. She said she responded to a call which said a robbery had just taken place. Gardai arrived at the Triangle Coffee Shop in Donabate shortly after 2pm, where they met two coffee shop workers. The workers, who were aged 18 and 19 at the time of the offence, were the only people in the shop when Conroy entered holding a broken glass bottle. Advertisement Advertisement Conroy went behind the counter and demanded money, ordering that it be placed in a shopping bag. Gda Moore said one of the workers put money in the bag, and then Conroy grabbed the money and eventually grabbed the till tray. He left the shop shortly afterwards. The workers gave a description of Conroys build and his clothing to gardai. Approximately 300 was taken during the incident. CCTV footage from the coffee shop and a nearby takeaway was obtained, and Conroy was identified. Advertisement Fingerprints from the till tray were also taken, which were later matched to Conroy. The court heard that Conroy was arrested on July 27th, 2023, and during his interview with gardai made full admissions and cooperated fully with officers. None of the money taken by Conroy was recovered. Neither of the coffee shop workers wanted to make victim impact statements. Pressure Gda Moore agreed with Aidan McCarthy BL, defending, that his client stated during interview that he carried out the robbery out of fear and was ordered to do it, but refused to say who had pressurised him. The garda agreed with counsel that Conroy was living in a homeless hostel at the time and was on drugs. Mr McCarthy said his client comes from a large, fractured family. He said his twin brother died in England last year, in addition to his mothers death. He also lost two half-siblings to suicide and an overdose. Counsel said his client was taken into care when he was two, and remained in the care of the State until he entered St Patricks Institute at 14. He said Conroy and his twin brother were born addicted to drugs as their mother had been a drug addict. He said his client has a diagnosis of bipolar and had drug addictions in the past. He asked the court to be as lenient as possible and to take into consideration that Conroy was institutionalised from the age of two and incarcerated from the age of 14. Israel bombed targets in overcrowded Rafah early on Friday, hours after US officials warned Israel against expanding its Gaza ground offensive to the southern city where more than half of the territorys 2.3 million people have sought refuge. Airstrikes overnight and into Friday hit two residential buildings in Rafah and a third strike targeted a kindergarten-turned-shelter for the displaced in central Gaza. Advertisement Twenty-two people were killed, according to AP journalists who saw the bodies arriving at hospitals. The airstrikes came hours after US president Joe Biden said he considers Israels conduct of the war to be over the top. The US secretary of state, Antony Blinken, left Israel on Thursday as the divide grows between the two close allies on the way forward. Advertisement US president Joe Biden speaking in the Diplomatic Reception Room of the White House in Washington (Evan Vucci/AP) I am of the view, as you know, that the conduct of the response in the Gaza Strip has been over the top, Mr Biden said after delivering remarks on a special counsel report on his handling of classified documents. Advertisement Mr Biden added that he continues to push for an extended pause in fighting in Gaza to facilitate the release of the dozens of remaining hostages that were captured during Hamass October 7th attack on Israel. Hamas, however, has demanded that Israel release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners and end the war as part of a hostage deal. Israeli prime minister Binyamin Netanyahu has refused to agree to those terms. Advertisement But Mr Biden said he is still hopeful a deal can be worked out that might open a path to ending the war. I am pushing very hard now to deal with this hostage ceasefire, Mr Biden said. Ive been working tirelessly on this deal. How can I say this without revealing to lead to a sustained pause in the fighting in, and the actions taking place, in the Gaza Strip. Advertisement Palestinians collect their belongings from their damaged house after an Israeli airstrike in Rafah, southern Gaza Strip (Fatima Shbair/AP) More than half of Gazas 2.3 million population has been driven by Israels military offensive towards the border with Egypt. Unable to leave the tiny Palestinian territory, many are living in makeshift tent camps or overflowing UN-run shelters. Aid agency officials sounded warnings over the prospect of a Rafah offensive. We need Gazas last remaining hospitals, shelters, markets and water systems to stay functional, said Catherine Russell, head of the UN childrens agency Unicef. Advertisement Advertisement Without them, hunger and disease will skyrocket, taking more child lives. Israels stated intentions to expand its ground offensive to Rafah also prompted an unusual public backlash in Washington. We have yet to see any evidence of serious planning for such an operation, Vedant Patel, a State Department spokesman, said. Going ahead with such an offensive now, with no planning and little thought in an area where there is sheltering of a million people would be a disaster. John Kirby, the US National Security Council spokesperson, said an Israel ground offensive in Rafah is not something we would support. The comments signalled intensifying US friction with Mr Netanyahu, who pushed a message of total victory in the war this week, at a time when US secretary of state Antony Blinken was in Israel to press for a ceasefire deal in exchange for the release of dozens of Hamas-held hostages. With the war now in its fifth month, Israeli ground forces are focusing on the city of Khan Younis, just north of Rafah, but Mr Netanyahu had repeatedly said Rafah would be next, creating panic among hundreds of thousands of displaced people. Mr Netanyahus words also alarmed Egypt which has said that any ground operation in the Rafah area or mass displacement across the border would undermine its 40-year-old peace treaty with Israel. Advertisement The mostly sealed Gaza-Egypt border is also the main entry point for humanitarian aid. Palestinians walk along a street after an Israeli airstrike in Rafah on Friday (Fatima Shbair/AP) The Health Ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said on Friday that the overall Palestinian death toll is now approaching 28,000, with about two-thirds women and children. The count does not distinguish between civilians and combatants. The war began with Hamass October 7th assault into Israel, in which militants killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducted around 250. Hamas is still holding more than 130 hostages, but around 30 of them are believed to be dead. Later on Friday, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society said Israeli forces had stormed the Al-Amal Hospital in Khan Younis. The hospital is home to a few dozen people displaced by the conflict as well as the patients and medical staff. Khan Younis has been the centre of the Israeli ground offensive in the past weeks. Earlier this week, the PRCS said that 8,000 displaced people were evacuated from its headquarters in Khan Younis and Al-Amal Hospital. It said only 40 displaced people and around 80 patients and 100 staff members remain in the medical centre. The Red Crescent gave no further details about Fridays raid. Hamas leader Yehya Sinwar and the commander of the groups military wing, Mohammed Deif, both grew up in the Khan Younis refugee camp. Israel says the city is a Hamas stronghold. Advertisement Hospitals in the Gaza Strip have been hard hit by the war. Israel has repeatedly surrounded and raided Gaza hospitals, saying that Hamas uses the facilities as cover for militant operations. The raids have forced many hospitals to close and displaced thousands of patients and people who had been seeking shelter. The few hospitals that remain in operation, including Al-Amal, have been overwhelmed with patients and displaced people seeking refuge. UK prime minister Rishi Sunak has labelled clearly ridiculous claims by Russian president Vladimir Putin that the West and Nato are to blame to the war in Ukraine. In an interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, Mr Putin repeated his claim that his invasion of Ukraine, which Kyiv and its allies described as an unprovoked act of aggression, was necessary to protect Russian speakers in Ukraine and prevent the country from posing a threat to Russia by joining Nato. Advertisement Speaking on Friday morning, Mr Sunak said it was clearly ridiculous to blame the West for the war. Russia conducted an illegal, unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. Im proud that the UK has stood strongly with Ukraine from the beginning. I was there earlier this year, the first foreign leader to visit. Advertisement It was my first visit of the year to announce significant military support to Ukraine and also a broader security relationship with them. Advertisement We cant let this type of behaviour go unchecked. It impacts all of our security. UK prime minister Rishi Sunak rejected the claims by the Russian leader (Liam McBurney/PA) Weve already seen the impact it had on everyones energy bills. And thats why were working closely, not just with the US but with allies around the world, to give Ukraine the support it needs for as long as it takes to repel the Russian invasion. Advertisement The same interview saw Mr Putin also repeat his claim that former UK prime minister Boris Johnson helped scupper a deal aimed at ending the war. Mr Johnson has previously called the claim total nonsense and Russian propaganda, while senior Ukrainian figures have also previously rubbished the idea. Mr Putin pointed at Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiys refusal to conduct talks with the Kremlin and argued that it is up to Washington to stop supplying Ukraine with weapons and convince Kyiv, which he called a US satellite, to sit down for negotiations. World Tucker Carlson's Putin interview: What did Russian... Read More We have never refused negotiations, Mr Putin said. You should tell the current Ukrainian leadership to stop and come to a negotiating table. Advertisement Advertisement Mr Putin warned that the West will never succeed in inflicting a strategic defeat on Russia in Ukraine and rejected allegations that Russia was harbouring plans to attack Poland or other Nato countries. It was Mr Putins first interview with Western media since his full-scale invasion of Ukraine two years ago. Russian president Vladimir Putin has urged Washington to recognise Moscows interests and persuade Ukraine to sit down for talks. In an interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, Mr Putin also said Russia stands ready to negotiate a potential prisoner exchange that would free Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who was detained last March on espionage charges he denies, and hinted that Moscow wants the release of an agent imprisoned in Germany. Advertisement Most of the interview, which was released on Thursday, focused on Ukraine where the war is nearing the two-year mark. Mr Putin repeated his claim that his invasion of Ukraine, which Kyiv and its allies described as an unprovoked act of aggression, was necessary to protect Russian speakers in Ukraine and prevent the country from posing a threat to Russia by joining Nato. Advertisement Photo released by Sputnik news agency of Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Tucker Carlson at the Kremlin (Gavriil Grigorov/Sputnik/Kremlin, Pool Photo/AP) Advertisement He pointed at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskys refusal to conduct talks with the Kremlin and argued that it is up to Washington to stop supplying Ukraine with weapons and convince Kyiv, which he called a US satellite, to sit down for negotiations. We have never refused negotiations, Mr Putin said. You should tell the current Ukrainian leadership to stop and come to a negotiating table. Mr Putin warned that the West will never succeed in inflicting a strategic defeat on Russia in Ukraine and rejected allegations that Russia was harbouring plans to attack Poland or other Nato countries. It was Mr Putins first interview with Western media since his full-scale invasion of Ukraine two years ago. Advertisement White House national security spokesperson John Kirby tried to minimise the impact of the interview ahead of its release, saying: Remember, youre listening to Vladimir Putin. And you shouldnt take at face value anything he has to say. Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich stands in a cage during a hearing at the court in Moscow, Russia on January 26th (AP) In Russia, the interview received wall-to-wall coverage in state media on Friday morning, with major TV channels repeatedly airing excerpts and one state news agency describing it in a column as a dagger blow through the curtain of propaganda of the dishonest media of the civilised world. Advertisement Advertisement In the days leading up to the release of the interview, Russian Kremlin-backed media also extensively covered Carlsons visit to Russia, trying to follow him around Moscow and reporting in great detail on where the former Fox News host went. Mr Putin has heavily limited his contact with international media since he launched the war in Ukraine in February 2022. Russian authorities have cracked down on independent media, forcing some Russian outlets to close, blocking others and ordering a number of foreign reporters to leave the country. Two journalists working for US news organisations The Wall Street Journals Mr Gershkovich and Radio Free Europe/Radio Libertys Alsu Kurmasheva are in jail. Advertisement Asked by Mr Carlson whether Russia would release Mr Gershkovich, Mr Putin said Moscow is open to talks but repeated that the reporter was charged with espionage, an accusation Mr Gershkovich has denied. He was caught red-handed when he was secretly getting classified information, Mr Putin said, adding that he does not rule out the reporter returning home. There is no taboo on settling this issue. We are ready to solve it, but there are certain conditions that are being discussed between special services. I believe an agreement can be reached. Advertisement Russian president Vladimir Putin and Tucker Carlson at the Kremlin (Gavriil Grigorov/Sputnik/Kremlin Pool Photo/AP) He pointed to a man imprisoned in a US-allied country for liquidating a bandit who killed Russian soldiers during the fighting in the Caucasus. He put our soldiers taken prisoners on a road and then drove a car over their heads, he said. There was a patriot who liquidated him in one of the European capitals. Mr Putin did not mention names, but he appeared to refer to Vadim Krasikov, a Russian serving a life sentence in Germany after being convicted of the 2019 brazen daylight killing of Zelimkhan Khangoshvili, a 40-year-old Georgian citizen of Chechen ethnicity. German judges who convicted Krasikov said he had acted on the orders of Russian federal authorities, who provided him with a false identity, a fake passport and the resources to carry out the hit. The Wall Street Journal reaffirmed in a statement that Mr is a journalist, and journalism is not a crime, adding that any portrayal to the contrary is total fiction. Were encouraged to see Russias desire for a deal that brings Evan home, and we hope this will lead to his rapid release and return to his family and our newsroom, it said. Ukraines new military chief has said his immediate goals are to improve the rotation of troops out of the front lines and harness the power of new technology in the fight against Russias invasion. Col Gen Oleksandr Syrskyi, who was previously the commander of Ukraines ground forces, spoke a day after President Volodymyr Zelensky put him in charge of the battlefield campaign against Russias invasion. Advertisement New tasks are on the agenda, Gen Syrskyi said on his Telegram channel. Though he provided little detail, his remarks appeared to align with Mr Zelenskys stated aim of bringing renewal to the armed forces in Thursdays shake-up and adopting a fresh approach to the fight. Commander-in-Chief of Ukraines Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrski (Ukrainian Presidential Press Office via AP) Advertisement Advertisement Later on Friday, Mr Zelensky also announced that he has replaced the chief of the militarys General Staff, Lt Gen Serhiy Shaptala with Maj Gen Anatoliy Barhylyevych, whose experience and understanding of the tasks of this war and Ukrainian goals he noted. Gen Shaptala was a close associate of Gen Syrskyis popular predecessor, Gen Valerii Zaluzhnyi, But the changes at the top will not solve some of Ukraines biggest problems: a shortage of manpower that has helped sap morale and may require a mass mobilisation, and the inadequate supply of Western weapons to take on Russias might. The shake-up of the military top brass caused some apprehension on the streets of Kyiv, the countrys capital. Advertisement Alisa Riazantseva, 35, said she had been generally satisfied with Gen Zaluzhnyi. We hope that our government has not made a big mistake by replacing him, she told The Associated Press. Oleksandr Azimov, 61, said there was some discontent, some dissatisfaction about the changes at the top. That may be a reference to previous criticism of Gen Syrskyis strategy of holding on for nine months to the city of Bakhmut, which brought the wars longest and bloodiest battle and which cost Ukraine dearly in troop losses. But it served the purpose of sapping Russias forces. Advertisement Advertisement Gen Syrskyi takes charge at an overall difficult time for Ukraines war effort. With the fighting about to enter its third year, Kyiv is largely dependent on support from Western countries where signs of war fatigue have emerged. That has left Ukraine on the defensive while Russia has placed its economy on a war footing and is building up its weapon stockpiles. Analysts detected no sign of a deeper malaise in Mr Zelenskys move, which had been rumoured for weeks. Command changes are normal for a state fighting a war over several years, the Institute for the Study of War, a Washington think tank, said late on Thursday. Asked about Gen Zaluzhnyis exit and Gen Syrskyis appointment, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Friday downplayed the moves. Advertisement We dont think that these are the factors that could change the course of the special (military) operation, he said, using the Russian governments euphemism for the war. Russian President Vladimir Putin used an interview broadcast on Thursday with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson to urge Washington to recognise Moscows interests and persuade Ukraine to sit down for talks. Meanwhile, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz was in Washington for talks with US President Joe Biden on Friday about new US military aid for Ukraine. The vital support is being held up by disputes in Congress. Advertisement German Chancellor Olaf Scholz boards a plane at Berlin Brandenburg Airport to fly to the US for a meeting with President Joe Biden (Michael Kappeler/dpa via AP) Gen Syrski, who was born in the Soviet Union and attended Moscow Higher Military Command School as well as serving in the Soviet Artillery Corps, is described as an obsessive planner, and his comments on Friday said his first job was to ensure clear and detailed planning. He also placed emphasis on ensuring the wellbeing of troops. The life and health of servicemen have always been and are the main value of the Ukrainian Army, he said. Gen Syrski is viewed as the architect of the counteroffensive in the Kharkiv region in September 2022. That was the most significant Ukrainian victory of the war, allowing Kyiv to push the Kremlins forces out of the cities of Kupiansk and Izium. Mr Zelensky signed orders on Friday to award Gen Zaluzhnyi and Kyrylo Budanov, chief of Ukraines Military Intelligence, with the Golden Star award, the countrys highest honour. Russian president Vladimir Putin spoke in an interview published on Friday about war and peace in Ukraine, the risks of advances in genetics and artificial intelligence and fears of a world war. The following are the key points from the interview with conservative talk-show host Tucker Carlson, as translated by Reuters from the Russian based on a Kremlin transcript. Advertisement On war and peace in Ukraine After a half-hour lecture on the history of Russia and Ukraine dating back to dawn of Slavic history in 862, Putin said that Russia and Ukraine almost agreed to a peace deal in Istanbul shortly after the full-scale war began in 2022 but that it was turned down by Ukraine at the behest of the West, specifically Boris Johnson, then British prime minister. He suggested the West and Ukraine think about peace. "Wouldn't it be better to come to an agreement with Russia? To agree, understanding the situation that is today, understanding that Russia will fight for its interests to the end, and, understanding this, actually return to common sense, start respecting our country, its interests and look for some solutions?" Advertisement And Russia? "We are ready for this dialogue." Advertisement Putin questioned why the United States needed to spend so much on arming Ukraine for a war he cast in some ways similar to a "civil war". "Does the United States need this? Why? It is thousands of kilometres away from its territory! Don't you have anything else to do?" Putin said. He said there were mercenaries from the United States, Poland and Georgia fighting for Ukraine. On the risks of a global war Asked about Nato fears that the situation could grow into a global war or nuclear conflict, Putin said that the West was trying to scare its populations with the myths of a Russian threat. Despite worries in the West, Putin said, Russia had not used tactical nuclear weapons. Advertisement The West, Putin said, was more afraid of China than of Russia. Photo: Pool/AFP via Getty Putin said Russia would only ever attack Poland or Latvia if there was an attack on Russia from Poland. Russia, Putin said, has no interests in Poland or Latvia. Putin denied Russia had designs on the whole continent of Europe. "You don't need to be some sort of analyst to know that this contradicts common sense to get involved in some sort of global war. A global war would bring the whole of humanity to the brink of extinction. It is obvious," Putin said. Advertisement Putin said the West had failed to understand that Russia, after the 1991 fall of the Soviet Union, wanted to be part of the family of so-called 'civilised peoples' but that its hopes were spurned as Nato enlarged eastwards. The West, Putin said, was more afraid of China than of Russia due to its swift economic growth. Advertisement On the world, AI and genetics Putin said the world was changing faster than during the collapse of the Roman Empire, mentioning advances in genetic research and artificial intelligence. He said geneticists could create a "superman" and quipped that Elon Musk had put a chip in a human brain. But he said that humanity needed to think about what to do about the advances in genetics and artificial intelligence and suggested the nuclear arms control treaties of the Cold War could be a guide. Putin gave a more than two-hour long interview with conservative talk-show host Tucker Carlson. Photo: Pool/AFP via Getty "When there arises an understanding that the boundless and uncontrolled development of artificial intelligence or genetics or some other modern trends, cannot be stopped, that these researches will still exist just as it was impossible to hide gunpowder from humanity... when humanity feels a threat to itself, to humanity as a whole, then, it seems to me, there will come a period to negotiate at the inter-state level on how we will regulate this," Putin said. Advertisement On Nordstream Asked who blew up the pipeline, Putin indicated it was the US Central Intelligence Agency. "The CIA has no alibi," Putin said. On US journalist Evan Gershkovich Gershkovich, a US citizen, was detained by the Federal Security Service (FSB) on March 29th, 2023, in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg on charges of espionage that carry up to 20 years in prison. Gershkovich denies the charges. Putin said Gershkovich was caught "red-handed" receiving classified information on behalf of US intelligence. But he said it made no sense to keep him in jail in Russia. "I do not exclude that the person you mentioned, Mr Gershkovich, may end up back in his homeland. Why not? It makes no sense, more or less, to keep him in jail in Russia," Putin said. "These negotiations are underway." Putin suggested that in return, Moscow wanted Germany to free Vadim Krasikov, who was convicted of the 2019 murder of a Chechen dissident in Berlin, although he did not mention Krasikov by name. Farmers in Spain, Italy and Poland demonstrated on Friday as part of ongoing protests against European Union farming policies and to demand measures to combat production cost hikes, reduced profits and unfair competition from non-EU countries. The actions follow similar protests in France, Greece and other EU member nations in recent weeks. Advertisement Farmers complain that the 27-nation blocs environmental and other policies are a financial burden and make their products more expensive than foreign imports. For four days farmers across Spain have staged tractor protests to demand changes in EU policies (Alvaro Barrientos/AP) The European Commission, the EUs executive arm, has made some concessions to farmers over the last few weeks, including shelving plans to halve the use of pesticides and other dangerous substances. Advertisement In Spain, farmers maintain that a law aimed at guaranteeing wholesale major supermarket buyers pay fair prices for their goods is not being enforced while consumer prices soar. Advertisement Fridays protests centred around the northern cities of Oviedo, Pamplona and Zaragoza, with tractors clogging several city streets and commuter roads. In many places, farmers had kept their protests going overnight. A group not affiliated with Spains three main farming organisations has called for farmers to move on Madrid at midnight for a Saturday protest near the headquarters of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchezs Socialist party. Fridays protests centred around the northern cities of Pamplona, Oviedo and Zaragoza (Alvaro Barrientos/AP) Advertisement The demonstrations are expected to continue over the coming weeks with a major protest being organised in the capital for February 21. Several Spanish media reports have linked many of the protests to conservative and right-wing groups. Police said 20 people have been arrested during this weeks demonstrations. Advertisement In Poland, where imports of cheap grain, milk and other produce from Ukraine have caused particular anger, farmers angered especially by imports of cheap grain, milk and other produce from Ukraine, drove tractors across the country to slow down traffic and block major roads, some displaying signs that read EU Policy is Ruining Polish Farmers. Access roads to border crossings with Ukraine in Hrebenne and Dorohusk, in the east, were blocked by tractors, with only a trickle of traffic being let through. Advertisement Polish farmers, angry at EU policy, park a wheelbarrow full of manure with the EU flag in it, in front of the office of the regional governor in Poznan, western Poland (Czarek Sokolowski/AP/PA) Advertisement In the western city of Poznan, the police estimated that some 1,400 tractors entered the streets and reached the office of the regional governor. Protesters lit flares there and placed a coffin, symbolising the death of Polish agriculture, as well as a manure-filled wheelbarrow with an EU flag stuck in it. There was no violence reported. Agriculture Minister Czeslaw Siekierski said he understood the grievances and he would talk to the farmers, who said they were also protesting on behalf of Polish consumers. Deputy prime minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz called on the EU commissioner for agriculture, Janusz Wojciechowski, Polands former agriculture minister, to resign. There was no immediate reaction Mr from Wojciechowski. Adrian Wawrzyniak, spokesman for the Solidarity Union of Individual Farmers, told The Associated Press: The protest is directed against the policy of the European Union, against the Green Deal and against the policy that allows for an uncontrolled inflow of farming produce from Ukraine. He said storage warehouses are filled with Ukrainian grain causing prices to fall 40% in 2023. There is lower demand for Polish sugar, milk and meat, making farmers hold off on investments. Advertisement Farmers are also concerned that the EUs Green Deal, which calls for limiting the use of chemicals and limiting green gas emissions, will result in a reduction in production and income. They say that the EUs requirement for 4% of farmland to be devoted to biodiversity and landscape protection will also have a negative effect on their output. Farmers tractors run in front of Romes Colosseum to protest government and EU agriculture (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia) In Italy, a small convoy of tractors moved across Romes historical centre to the Colosseum, escorted by police patrols. Farmers have been peacefully protesting outside of Rome and across the country for days to express their discontent Premier Giorgia Meloni has repeatedly said that her right-wing government has already addressed some of the farmers key requests, but many of them feel neglected. Ms Meloni stressed that her government has already earmarked an extra three billion euros (2.5 billion) from the Italian chunk of EUs post-pandemic recovery funds, raising total resources dedicated to the agricultural sector to eight billion euros (6.8 billion). On Friday afternoon, at a roundtable with her ministers and some delegates of the main agricultural associations not including representatives of the protests the Italian premier also agreed to extend an income tax exemption for farmers in force since 2017, but only for low-income earners. Advertisement Many Italian farmers say they do not feel represented by large sector associations, which they say are removed from their daily struggles. Later on Friday, a few protest representatives met separately with Agriculture Minister Francesco Lollobrigida, but that move did not stop a new convoy of hundreds of tractors from starting a procession on Romes main motorway ring road. While they're certainly divisive, it appears electric scooters are here to stay and their use on our roads and footpaths is surging. But one Australian council has walked back on its e-scooter trial in a move that has left residents using the mode of transport bemused. The City of Unley, an inner-city Adelaide council, has refused to extend its e-scooter trial which will now see shared e-scooters available to rent wiped from its streets. A notification from shared service Beam on its app informed customers the City of Unley LGA was no longer accessible to its customers from Saturday, sharing an updated, smaller map of where scooters would now be available to be used. Beam customers were informed e-scooters were no longer in use in the City of Unley, south of the updated usage area identified in purple. Source: Beam The council told Yahoo News Australia that a vote last month resulted in an extension of its two-year trial was defeated six votes to five, adding such a vote replicated just how divided sentiment about scooters is in the community. Government takes its time on legislation, safety clarity Unley Mayor Michael Hewitson previously stated a lack of clarity from the state government on the laws surrounding e-scooters had led to reservations from residents and councillors. He warned the government late last year a decision to scrap the trial was likely without action. While the South Australian government has long spoken of its desire to introduce legislation for the use of privately-owned scooters, as well as updated safety measures for riders, Premier Peter Malinauskas has yet to deliver. He recently said the government did not want to rush the process to ensure they "get it right". "The key issues are about the uncertainty around legislation in terms of road and safety rules, along with aspects such as vehicle registration and insurance. People can pay to hire e-scooters, but it is still illegal to operate a privately owned e-scooter on public roads," a City of Unley spokesperson told Yahoo. Story continues Shared e-scooters are popular in some of Australia's major cities, however rules around privately-owned scooters are unclear. Source: Getty "The chief concerns we heard from our community were about e-scooter safety around bicycle riders and pedestrians on shared bike and walking pathways, and about the machines impeding footpaths and becoming tripping hazards for residents." Privately-owned scooters are street legal in Queensland, WA, Tasmania and the ACT, however policing of the use of private e-scooters publicly in other states is often lax, but offending riders can face a raft of financial punishments. Mayor Hewitson told Yahoo that while he sees e-scooters as a cheap and environmentally-friendly alternative moving forward, he "respects and understands the reasons" for councillors' decision to end the trial. Residents who use rental e-scooters were left confused by the move, calling it "short sighted". Others criticised the state government for "wasted" time on what they say is much-needed legislation. However some disagreed on the trial, calling hire e-scooters "a menace". "People just dumped them anywhere and everywhere," they said. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. The publisher of the Daily Mirror has been ordered to pay the costs of part of a phone-hacking trial which featured Britain's Prince Harry. In December, a judge ruled that phone hacking became widespread and habitual at the Mirror Group Newspapers (MGN) titles in the late 1990s and was practised even to some extent during the Leveson Inquiry into press standards in 2011. Advertisement Mr Justice Fancourt also concluded that Harrys phone was hacked to a modest extent by MGN, awarding him 140,600 in damages. As well as the representative claims brought by Harry and three others against the publisher of the Daily and Sunday Mirror and The People, the trial last year also heard generic evidence about wider alleged wrongdoing at MGN. In a ruling on Friday, Mr Justice Fancourt said the publisher should pay so-called generic legal costs to the more than 100 people currently involved in the legal action. Advertisement The judge said: On the generic issues, there can be little doubt that the claimants were successful. Advertisement In this unusual case, justice is only done by awarding the claimants their costs of the generic issues, he added. The figure of costs is yet to be assessed, but the High Court in London previously heard the group of people who sued the publisher were currently seeking payment of 1,976,660 from MGN towards the legal costs of bringing those allegations to court. Barrister David Sherborne is representing the claimants (James Manning/PA) Advertisement Harrys case was heard alongside similar claims brought by actor Michael Turner, who is known professionally as Michael Le Vell and is most famous for playing Kevin Webster in Coronation Street, actress Nikki Sanderson, and Fiona Wightman, the ex-wife of comedian Paul Whitehouse. The claims brought by Ms Sanderson and Ms Wightman were dismissed by Mr Justice Fancourt because they were made too late, despite the judge finding that some of their complaints were proved. In his ruling on Friday, Mr Justice Fancourt ruled that Ms Sanderson and Ms Wightman should pay MGN the legal costs of defending their individual claims. The judge also ruled that Mr Turner should pay MGNs costs of responding to his claim from the date of March 5th, 2022, when an offer was made. Advertisement Advertisement David Sherborne, for the group, previously said decisions about the costs in Harrys case against the publisher are reserved until the rest of his claim is determined. Harry sued MGN for damages, claiming journalists at its publications were linked to methods including phone hacking, so-called blagging or gaining information by deception, and use of private investigators for unlawful activities. There are a further 115 articles in his claim after a sample of 33 were examined at the trial last year, which saw Harry enter the witness box, with 15 articles found to have been the product of unlawful information gathering. An MGN spokesperson said: We welcomed Decembers judgment that gave the business the necessary clarity to move forward from events that took place many years ago. Advertisement Where historical wrongdoing took place, we apologise unreservedly, have taken full responsibility and paid compensation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he has ordered the military to prepare a plan to evacuate the population of Rafah ahead of an expected Israeli invasion of the southern Gaza city. Mr Netanyahu made the announcement on Friday following international criticism of Israels plan to invade the crowded town on Egypts border. Advertisement Israel says Rafah is the last remaining Hamas stronghold and it needs to send in troops to complete its war plan against the Islamic militant group. But an estimated 1.5 million Palestinians have crammed into the city, living with relatives, in shelters or in sprawling tent camps after fleeing fighting elsewhere in Gaza. According to the United Nations, the citys pre-war population was roughly 280,000. Advertisement Palestinians look at the destruction after an Israeli airstrike in Rafah, in the Gaza Strip, on Friday. Photo: Fatima Shbair/AP. Mr Netanyahus office said: It is impossible to achieve the goal of the war of eliminating Hamas by leaving four Hamas battalions in Rafah. Advertisement On the contrary, it is clear that intense activity in Rafah requires that civilians evacuate the areas of combat. Mr Netanyahu said on Friday that a massive operation is needed in Rafah. Advertisement His office added that Mr Netanyahu had ordered the military and security officials to come up with a combined plan that includes both a mass evacuation of civilians and the destruction of Hamas forces in the town. The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said Friday that the overall Palestinian death toll is now approaching 28,000, with about two-thirds women and children. The count does not distinguish between civilians and combatants. Roughly 80 per cent of Gazas population has been displaced, and the territory has plunged into a humanitarian crisis with shortages of food and medical services. Advertisement Palestinians look at the destruction after an Israeli airstrike in Rafah. Photo: AP Photo/Fatima Shbair. Mr Netanyahu has largely rebuffed international criticism of the civilian death toll, saying that Hamas is responsible for endangering civilians by operating and hiding in residential areas. However, that criticism has grown in recent days as Netanyahu and other leaders vow to move into Rafah. US President Joe Biden said on Thursday that Israels conduct in the war, ignited by a deadly October 7th Hamas attack on southern Israel, is over the top, the harshest US criticism yet of its close ally and an expression of concern about a soaring civilian death toll in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Earlier Friday, Israel bombed targets in Rafah. The attack took place hours after Biden administration officials and aid agencies warned Israel against expanding its Gaza ground offensive to the town where more than half of the territorys 2.3 million people have sought refuge. Airstrikes overnight and into Friday hit two residential buildings in Rafah, while two other sites were bombed in central Gaza, including one that damaged a kindergarten-turned-shelter for displaced Palestinians. Twenty-two people were killed, according to AP journalists who saw the bodies arriving at hospitals. Robert Badinter, who spearheaded the drive to abolish Frances death penalty, campaigned against antisemitism and Holocaust denial and led a European body dealing with the legal fallout of Yugoslavias breakup, has died. He was 95. French President Emmanuel Macron hailed Mr Badinter, a revered human rights defender and former justice minister, as a figure of the century who never ceased to advocate for the ideas of the Enlightenment. Advertisement The French Justice Ministry on Friday confirmed Mr Badinters death, without providing details. Robert Badinter was a key player in the Peace Conference on Yugoslavia (AP Photo/Francois Mori, pool, File) A famed lawyer and thinker, Mr Badinter was best known for his sustained push to end capital punishment. Advertisement He described seeing one of his own clients lose his head to a guillotine, which was used up until the 1970s to kill criminals in France. Advertisement Over his career, he saved six men from execution, eliciting death threats in the process. As justice minister under then-President Francois Mitterrand, Mr Badinter overcame public opposition and won parliamentary support for abolishing the death penalty in 1981. Born in Paris in 1928 to a Jewish family, Mr Badinter saw Nazi horrors and Frances collaboration up close during World War II, and lost his father in the Sobibor death camp, according to Mr Macrons office. Advertisement As a lawyer, Mr Badinter later pursued a notorious Holocaust denier in court. Mr Badinter went on to lead Frances Constitutional Court, served as a senator for 16 years and was seen as a moral compass for many in France for his defence of human rights. French President Emmanuel Macron described Badinter as a figure of the century who never ceased to plead for the ideas of the Enlightenment (AP Photo/Markus Schreiber, Pool) Advertisement In 1991, Mr Badinter led an arbitration body set up by the European Economic Community to provide the Peace Conference on Yugoslavia with legal advice after two of the countrys six republics Slovenia and Croatia had declared independence. The Badinter Commission, as the body became known, was made up of presidents of constitutional courts of the member nations of the EEC, a precursor to the EU. Advertisement The Badinter Commission issued 15 legal opinions between 1991 and 1993, including one saying that the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia had dissolved. It paved the way for international recognition of Slovenia and Croatia as sovereign countries in 1992. Advertisement The Badinter Commission also declared the borders between former Yugoslav republics as international frontiers between newly independent countries that could only be changed through diplomacy, and not by force. Avocat, garde des Sceaux, homme de labolition de la peine de mort. Robert Badinter ne cessa jamais de plaider pour les Lumieres. Il etait une figure du siecle, une conscience republicaine, lesprit francais. pic.twitter.com/3IJ9jekLSd Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) February 9, 2024 Despite the legal pronouncements, wars raged in the 1990s in Croatia and later Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo, claiming hundreds of thousands of lives and displacing the largest number of refugees in Europe since World War II. Mr Macron will preside over a special national homage to Mr Badinter, the presidents office said. In his statement, Mr Macron honoured the memory of a wise man of the republic who, after having experienced the tragedy of the century, embodied the most beautiful part of hope. This is despite the government contribution to childcare fees in Australia being significantly higher than the OECD average. Childcare subsidies will top $12 billion this year, according to the ACCC. Loading Something did not add up. And it was not that long ago that Lamborghini-driving aged care owners were being vilified as the sectors threadbare service was exposed by the pandemic. Did childcare have its own dodgy operators with a luxury car habit to feed? Adding fuel to the fire last year were financial press reports on private equity players looking to flog their childcare operations into a market recovering from COVID. Partners Group was reportedly looking to sell Guardian Early Learning for up to $1 billion. It bought into the business for $440 million in 2016. Another private equity group, Quadrant, paused the sale of Affinity Education in October. It also had pricing expectations around the $1 billion mark. It acquired the childcare business for $650 million in 2021. But these high hopes may have been grounded in desperation rather than reality. In September 2022, Bain Capital was forced to hand ownership of high-flying Camp Australia to its lenders. In effect, the private equity smart money was wiped out by COVID and too much debt. Bain paid $400 million for the business in 2016. With this in mind, it should not have been too much of a surprise when the final report from the ACCC landed last week and failed to find evidence of profiteering. Our analysis does not show systemic excess profit margins from 2018 to 2022, the report says. The finding came despite the watchdog confirming the suspicions of embattled families that any fresh financial support they received from the government is soon gobbled up through higher fees charged by operators. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at a childcare centre in Canberra last year. Credit: Rhett Wyman Rob Bray, a research fellow at the Australian National University, who helped evaluate the previous federal governments Jobs for Families Child Care Package in 2018, says this ACCC report might have finally killed the idea that high childcare costs means there are big profits. Good quality childcare costs money and thats really the bottom line, he says. Bray and others from within the industry paint a picture of a high-cost, highly regulated industry that is struggling with a crisis brought on by the current labour shortage. It means the industry can no longer rely on underpaying workers who can earn far more in comparable industries like education. The ACCC report has cleared the air and is really pushing us now to focus on those real issues, as opposed to sort of keeping on trying to chase this mythological, super profits, price gouging etcetera, Bray says. I think, eventually, there will be no option, but for wages to increase in the sector. Rob Bray from the Australian National University It allows us now to focus on what really is important, rather than chasing these beliefs, [that] theres some easy fix. The ACCC verdict was not a surprise to Bray, who came to a similar conclusion when evaluating the 2018 child care package during his time as a government bureaucrat. We could not see anything obvious that pointed to people obtaining large profits, but we had nothing like the access to information the ACCC has, he says. The ACCCs verdict was also welcomed by the embattled sector. The Parenthood chief executive Jessica Rudd at the National Press Club last year. Credit: AAP Minister Jason Clare has said several times that he wants to name and shame the big providers that are making obscene profits. Well, we dont see the evidence of that, and neither does the ACCC, says Darren Stevenson, the founder of after-school care provider The Extend Group. The ACCC report itself revealed that nearly a quarter of childcare companies are barely struggling to break [even], let alone gouging. In my discussions with other providers in the marketplace, they are experiencing severe hardship, financial hardship. Theyre not making profits, and that cant go on forever. The ACCC says for-profit providers have higher profit margins, increase their fees more and charge more than not-for-profit providers. But the commission agreed that a significant number of operators are doing it tough. Allan Fels is investigating the lack of competition for Australian consumers. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen The bottom quartile of childcare companies had profit margins of less than 1 per cent, which is unsustainable for an ongoing business, its report says. Not-for-profit Goodstart, Australias largest operator which was created by the spectacular financial collapse of ABC Learning in 2008 has struggled with the challenges which have rocked the entire sector. Goodstarts annual report released in October unveiled an $85.3 million loss for the year ending June 30, 2023. This was on top of a $65.7 million loss for the prior year. While non-cash items made the financial performance look far worse, the annual report did not hide the massive challenges the business faced as the pandemic eased. Goodstart chief executive Dr Ros Baxter offered a list of woes, but highlighted as the central issue the tight labour market, which has triggered profound consequences for the entire sector. In the early childhood sector, we are increasingly seeing competition with the school sector being really difficult, Baxter says. The wages in the early childhood sector simply cant compete. We know that [childcare] teachers with identical qualifications to teachers in the school system are paid 20 per cent to 30 per cent less. We know that a qualified educator in our childhoods paid up to 30 per cent less than an unqualified teacher aide in school. In November, The Parenthoods Jessica Rudd told the National Press Club of her dismay at just how badly staff were paid. Loading When I started doing this job, I was shocked to learn that a Cert III qualified early childhood educator takes home $500 less a week than an entry-level bricky labourer, Rudd, the head of the childcare advocacy group, said at the time. Bray also thinks this is the heart of the problem and will not be easy to fix. One of the reasons costs are increasing is that basically, were running childcare on cheap labour you have an awful lot of dedicated workers in the sector, who really enjoyed doing that work. Thats effectively been exploited by everyone because theyve been willing to accept relatively low wages for jobs that they really enjoyed doing, he says. The difficulty is, now were into the labour shortage and there arent that number of people who are willing to make that trade off. Loading Goodstarts Baxter points out that this cascades into higher costs, not just in recruitment of new staff, but in using expensive agency staff in the interim. The ACCC reported that labour accounts for around 70 per cent of childcare costs for the average daycare provider, rising to 77 per cent for outside of school care providers. Rent is the other significant cost, and the ACCC noted that this cost had been rising faster than CPI between 2018 and 2022. In contrast, commercial office and retail property operators have generally experienced a decrease in their revenue over the same period, the ACCC report says. But back to staffing. If employees with the right credentials cannot be found, it means capping the number of children that can be looked after, which in turn cripples revenue coming through the door. Baxter confirms this has been an issue for Goodstart, and it is not alone. The Australian Childcare Alliance, the peak body for small-scale childcare providers with 2500 members, says a survey in October showed that half of respondents had been forced to cap enrolment numbers due to staff shortages. Given the high, fixed cost base, this is a huge problem for operators which need occupancy levels of around 70 per cent to break even. This figure is even higher for not-for-profit operators such as Goodstart, which invests more into its staffing and education. And as if this were not enough, competition between operators causes its problems, as it exacerbates the challenges with staffing and occupancy levels. The governments reliance on a market-based subsidy model means supply is left to the market. The bottom quartile of childcare companies had profit margins of less than 1 per cent, which is unsustainable for an ongoing business. ACCC report The problem is, all the current expansion is coming from for-profit operators and as the ACCC points out their only focus is the most lucrative geographic and demographic areas. The commission report confirms that the childcare sector is creating a market where areas that are already well-served are getting even more centres, and poorly served areas do not get a look-in. But the main headache for the Albanese government is we may be barely scratching the surface of the labour cost challenges in childcare. Loading The only uncertainty is just how expensive it will get if operators, and the government, are forced to pay workers to a level commensurate with similar roles in other sectors. I think, eventually, there will be no option, but for wages to increase in the sector, Bray says. If the government is committed to the idea of parents not having to pay so much, then that means the government needs to be committed to putting in more funding. Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size Lea Seydoux appears in close-up against a green screen in the opening of Bertrand Bonellos new film, La Bete (The Beast). It is wilfully jarring and disorientating, as if the film were watching is a work in progress, with an offscreen voice instructing her character, Gabrielle, to react to a horror yet to be revealed. As Bonello explains, this opening serves two purposes. First, it lets us know that what we are about to see is real and not real. The second reason, he says, is that you have Lea Seydoux, alone, in this green desert. Its a way of telling the spectator: my subject, its her, its Gabrielle. But also my subject is her, Lea Seydoux. Its going to be a mix of fiction and documentary on her. For more than a decade, Seydoux has been a major presence in both French and international cinema. But Bonello has known of her gifts for longer than most. Among her first screen roles was in his 2008 drama On War, in which she played a member of a mysterious cult based in the French countryside, engaged in strange rituals with the goal of getting closer to pure existence. Since then, shes been a Bond girl, won the top acting prize at the Cannes Film Festival for the controversial 2013 love story Blue Is the Warmest Colour, and worked with leading directors including Quentin Tarantino, Yorgos Lanthimos and Wes Anderson. She also starred in Bonellos 2014 Saint Laurent, a biopic of the legendary French designer. Lea Seydoux in, from left, Saint Laurent, No Time to Die and Blue Is the Warmest Colour. The characters she plays can be glamorous or self-effacing, or both at once: theres something elusive, even skittish about her screen presence, which seems to invite the cameras gaze but also flee from it. Advertisement By Bonellos account, La Bete was conceived as a star vehicle: he started work on the script several years ago, but had to wait until Seydoux could fit it into her schedule. She plays three characters or rather, three versions of the same character, who exist in different epochs but all bear the same name and seem to be reincarnations of one another. In 1910, shes a pianist feted by Parisian high society. In the recent past of 2014, shes a lonely fashion model house-sitting in Los Angeles and awaiting her showbiz breakthrough. Finally, in 2044, shes a citizen of a society ruled by artificial intelligence in Bonellos words, a world which has no more problems but is very sad and scary at the same time. George MacKay and Lea Seydoux travel through time in The Beast. Appearing opposite her throughout is the British actor George MacKay (best-known in Australia for 2019s True History of the Kelly Gang). He also plays versions of the same character, Louis. Most memorably, in the 2014 section of the film, hes a stalker whose misogynistic rants are modelled on those of the incel killer Elliot Rodger, who murdered six people in Isla Vista, California, driven by his failure to find a girlfriend and consequent hatred of women and the world in general. Loading Its of course very rich, to say that one person is not one, Bonello says. For him, the separate sections of the film are all part of the same story, though this may not be immediately obvious to the viewer. That was the most difficult thing in the writing process. But I like this kind of addition. As the film shifts around in time, its tone and style shift too, from the elegant costume drama of the 1910 section to something more openly unsettling. Its a mix of genres, Bonello says. You have melodrama, you have slasher, you have science fiction. But basically all the genres are ruled by one thing, the relationship between love and fear, which are two feelings that really go well together. Advertisement This theme, he says, derives from Henry James 1903 novella The Beast in the Jungle the starting point for the script, though the end product is less a direct adaptation than a suite of variations. Its something I read a long time ago that always broke my heart. Director Bernard Bonello is drawn to Lea Seydouxs mystery: Sometimes I talk to her and I dont know whats in her mind. Credit: Getty Images The protagonist of James story is an upper-class Englishman who spends his life unable to love, paralysed by an unknown threat he senses on the horizon. In La Bete, this paralysis is shared between the central characters and associated with the alienation created by technology, both in the futuristic sequences and those with MacKays video-blogging incel. For Bonello, this character, like the actual Rodger, is at once a modern incarnation of James repressed hero and an emblem of America in the online era. Hes ultra-connected, and hes very alone. For me, he has this fear of love. But he cannot express it this way. So he goes no one wants me, so I hate you, so Im going to kill you. What happens between him and Gabrielle, however, suggests another side to the story. She sees in him a young, lost boy, Bonello says. And I think that in most incels, there is something like that. Fear and love are explored in Bertrand Bonellos The Beast. Seydoux has spoken of how the themes of the script resonated with her straight away and of how fear was part of her experience of playing Gabrielle, a demanding role both physically and psychologically. Im afraid of a great many things, she told the French newspaper Sud Ouest. But, on the other hand, fear is necessary. Its necessary to transcend fear, to sublimate it. Advertisement It bears saying that theres no suggestion this fear was triggered by Bonello himself who jokingly refers to his reputation as a bad boy of French cinema, but describes his approach on set as anything but dictatorial. I think its my job to adapt myself to my actors, and not the contrary, he tells me. Some important directors would say the opposite. But you know, its like if I had many keys but there is only one that works. Loading In this instance, he says, his stars couldnt have been more different. MacKay was full of questions about his role, exchanging emails with Bonello for months before the shoot. And then when he arrived hes over-ready. So I didnt talk to him on the set. Just, like, faster, slower, left or right. Hes so precise. Lea, its the contrary. She doesnt want to prepare herself. She needs to arrive not knowing exactly whats happening, and to discover the scene while we are doing it, and to leave it like that. Given this, was it a problem to ensure both were at their best at the same moment? Even with Lea, I dont do many takes, Bonello says. I would say between four and five, not more than that. Because she has a huge intuition, she understands it very quickly, and then it comes out. Bonello describes MacKay glowingly as the best actor Ive ever worked with. All the same, theres no doubt that for him the heart of the film is Seydoux. What is it about her that fascinates, as far as hes concerned? Advertisement Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. With entry by spiral stairs and a raft of bijou snacks, this South Melbourne bar and restaurant wants to resurrect a bygone era of hospitality, with less rules and more laissez-faire fun. As featured in the Melbourne March hit list. See all stories . A brooding underground venue for 40 people has just opened in South Melbourne, with a no-rules philosophy and a flexible menu where snacks can do double duty as dinner. You dont want your local to be a place where you have to spend loads or be forced into ordering a certain amount, says co-owner Glen Bagnara, who is opening Castlerose as the flipside to his upstairs cafe Clementine, which has been trading since last April. The venues dark tones and underground location are all about escape. Alex Squadrito Open only in the evening, Castlerose will pick up where Clementine leaves off, shaking Brandy Sours and wheeling out a cheese trolley stacked with cloth-aged cheddar and at least seven other cheeses. The menu is small yet classic, with a ratatouille tarte tatin the most head-turning item of four mains. Repeat visits from the many residents and office workers around South Melbourne are the focus. Indonesias presidential candidates, (from left) Ganjar Pranowo, Prabowo Subianto and Anies Baswedan. Credit: Aditya Irawan Prabowo is Prabowo Subianto, an ex-special forces commander once so unpalatable to the Americans human rights sensibilities that successive administrations barred him from entry. Loading If the name sounds familiar, its because we have been here before. The former son-in-law of the dictator Suharto years ago formed his own political party, Gerindra, as a vehicle to power. He has twice lost presidential elections to Jokowi; first as a fire-breathing nationalist in 2014 and again in 2019 as the impassioned Islamist. This campaign, the 72-year-old is claiming a softer side: an animal loving, sensitive modern man; an affable uncle with adorably dorky dance moves to match. Respectable polls have him leading both of his rivals, Ganjar Pranowo and Anies Baswedan, by well over 20 points. Marcus Meitzner, an associate professor at the Australian National University in Canberra, believes that if Subianto does not finish both of his rivals on Wednesday by scoring a 50 per cent majority, he will cruise past the survivor in a June run-off. The more interesting question is what kind of Prabowo will show up in the palace in October, he says. A man walks past a General Election Commissions banner showing the presidential candidates, from left, Anies Baswedan and his running mate Muhaimin Iskandar, Prabowo Subianto and his running mate Gibran Rakabuming Raka, and Ganjar Pranowo and his running mate Mahfud MD in Jakarta. Credit: AP There are rational reasons to believe that he will simply try to replicate Jokowis success formula: sitting atop a big coalition, using the state apparatus to dish out rewards and punishments, and distributing patronage to elites. This would mean that, unlike in his 2014 plans, he will not try to dismantle democracy rather, he will tightly control the existing formal democratic processes. But then there is the issue of his temper and thats where the analytical power of political rationality comes to an end. Nobody can with any kind of certainty predict whether he will be able to control his short fuse once he has full power, Meitzner says. Loading My guess is that he will be surrounded by family and loyalists whose task it will be to keep any such episodes behind closed doors. Though absent from the presidential ballot papers, Jokowi looms over the outcome as anything but yesterdays man. His enduring popularity with voters has made him the kingmaker and, by extension, the ostensible master of his political legacy. Only Anies, the Islamist former governor of Jakarta, has dared propose meaningful policy alternatives should he be elected, notably threatening to bin Jokowis $US34 billion ($51 billion) vision of a new capital city in the remote jungle of Borneo. Former Central Java governor Ganjar, anointed by Jokowis own party and once his presumed successor, has struggled to differentiate himself while remaining broadly supportive of the president. Jokowis man is Prabowo, who, despite their historical political enmity, is doing all he can to realise his decades-long dream of high power. He has not only publicly endorsed the presidents policies, but selected Gibran Rakabuming Raka, the outgoing presidents 36-year-old son and mayor of Solo, as his vice presidential candidate. Prabowo shakes hands with his running mate Gibran, the eldest son of Jokowi, at the end of a televised vice presidential candidates debate. Credit: AP The pairing was made possible last year by curious goings-on inside the Indonesian Constitutional Court, which ruled that Gibrans successful election in Solo excused him from the vice presidential minimum age of 40. The man casting the deciding vote on the nine-member panel was Chief Justice Anwar Usman, Jokowis brother-in-law and Gibrans uncle. Usman and Jokowi have denied accusations of familial meddling. Indonesians frown on overt presidential advocacy during elections, and Jokowi has been careful to not to explicitly endorse Prabowo. The message has been more subtle: dining together near a street-facing window, for example, the photograph of which soon appeared on Prabowos own social media accounts. Indonesian President Joko Widodo (right) has dinner with Subianto on January 5. Academics from dozens of Indonesian universities joined forces this week to protest Jokowis perceived manipulation of state institutions to engineer political outcomes. Students also rallied on Wednesday, demanding Jokowi keep his nose out of the campaign. Wilson, who is on the ground in Indonesia to witness the campaigns, believes Jokowi may have erred in staking his legacy on the shape-shifting form of Prabowo. Im convinced that when Prabowos in the presidency, and hes already used Jokowis popularity to get there, hell have a very clear agenda of his own, he says. In a stunning finding that Democrats branded a cheap shot by a prosecutor with Republican leanings, Hur argued that, while Bidens actions were serious, his age and hazy memory would be unlikely to result in a conviction beyond reasonable doubt. Loading After all, the report revealed, Biden couldnt remember basic details when interviewed by investigators, such as when his eldest son Beau died (something the president furiously denied) or when he was vice president to Barack Obama. At trial, Mr Biden would likely present himself to a jury as he did during our interview of him: as a sympathetic, well-meaning elderly man with a poor memory, Hur wrote. It would be difficult to convince a jury that they should convict him by then a former president well into his eighties of a serious felony that requires a mental state of willfulness. Such findings simply reinforce what polls have long suggested. Indeed, an NBC News poll released this week found that three-quarters of voters, including half of Democrats, had concerns about Bidens mental and physical health. Loading By comparison, less than half of voters had concerns about the mental and physical health of Trump, who is 77. Understandably, the president hit back. At a hastily convened press conference at the White House about 8pm on Thursday local time, Biden lashed out at Hur for unfairly raising questions about his age and memory, when the report had otherwise exonerated him. He pointed out that he was interviewed for two days in the immediate aftermath of the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel. He reiterated the fact that, unlike Trump, he returned the documents as soon as they were found in an office space and in his Delaware home, and co-operated with investigators. And he sought to reassure the public that he was more than capable of being the leader of the free world, and was the best and most qualified person to take on Trump at the general election in November. I know what the hell Im doing, he declared. Im the president and I put this country back on its feet. But the presidents insistence that my memory is fine was undercut when he mistakenly referred to Egypts leader Abdel Fattah el-Sissi as the president of Mexico while answering a question about the hostage negotiations in the Israel-Hamas war. This could have otherwise be dismissed as a slip of the tongue, and its worth noting that Trump himself recently mixed up former House speaker Nancy Pelosi with his Republican rival Nikki Haley, accusing Haley of failing to provide adequate security during the US Capitol riots. In October, he mistook Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban for Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, while praising Orban, who many consider a dictator, as one of the strongest leaders anywhere in the world. An Australian man got the shock of his life when he moved into a new home and discovered a deadly Eastern Brown Snake crawling across the kitchen floor but what he did next was completely unexpected and according to an expert, unwise. Surrounded by half-unpacked boxes at his new home in Brendale in the city of Morton Bay, the panicked man, Kevin, quickly grabbed the first thing he could find a large saucepan lid and managed to place it over the slithering baby snake before immediately calling for help. Brandon Giffo Gifford, from Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers, quickly arrived on the scene. While having the snake contained under a pot lid made his job slightly easier, he warned anyone who came across a snake in their house should not try to approach it. Snake catcher Brandon Gifford was called out to a deadly Eastern Brown trapped under a saucepan lid. Source: Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers It was quite a shock [for the resident], Gifford told Yahoo News Australia. He ran into panic-mode, he didnt know what to do and didnt want it loose in the house so we couldnt find it. I did say: Mate, thats the second most deadly snake in the world and Australias most venomous snake. He was totally shocked as he didnt have a clue. Gifford said capturing a snake of that size under a pot lid was quite a feat as they are extremely mobile and agile but added, a bite could land a person in hospital and the snakes venom was deadly. If snakes are in the house, they are easy for us to manage, he continued. We suggest, if they are not in the main living space, shut the doors, put towels under the doors and call the snake catcher. Eastern Brown snake found in young girl's bedroom It wasnt the only close encounter with a Eastern Brown the 28-year-old has had recently, earlier this week he was called to a family home in nearby Moodlu, where an adult snake had found its way into a girls bedroom. Story continues He said her panicked parents called the snake catcher after the creature climbed onto their daughters dressing table. The girl managed to escape the room and her parents sectioned off the door with towels. I think they used every towel in the house, Gifford joked. If snakes are in the house, they are easy for us to manage. We suggest, if they are not in the main living space, shut the doors and put towels under the doors and call the snake catcher. Gifford was called out to wrangle this Eastern Brown off a dressing table a few days later. Source: Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers Leave snake catching to the experts He said while snake catchers were professionals, they all had a mate whod been bitten and urged Aussies to leave it to the experts. We are more prone to bites, but we know what were doing, Giffo told Yahoo. People do go into panic-mode and go to approach it but our advice is simple leave it alone. You can watch them from a distance, we will find it. Sometimes, they move from room to room, they get in the house to escape the heat and dont know how to get back out. We urge people not to approach them because if that goes wrong, someone could end up in hospital fighting for their life and come very close to dying from a bite. It can go from zero to 100 very quickly. Gifford said the service had been inundated with calls recently as snakes were more active due to it being snake season, which typically runs over spring and summer, and were trying to restock, feed and gain weight, while babies were also on the move. Should anyone suffer a snake bite, immediately call Triple-0 and ask for an ambulance as minutes could be crucial. Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? Get our new newsletter showcasing the weeks best stories. So after two hours, whats the reaction in the US to that interview? The Washington Post says it should have been a big win for Putin and Carlson. A chance for the Russian president to justify his invasion and for Carlson to once again be relevant after being fired from Fox News. But the interview got too bogged down in a tedious recounting of Russian and Ukrainian history by Putin, and Carlson a master of combative interviews when he was on Fox News was much of a bystander for much of his own interview. He also failed to ask the Russian leader about several challenging topics, from Russian atrocities in Ukraine to Putins attacks on internal dissent. The New York Times analysis says that the two-hour interview was not exactly gripping video. Putin rolled right over Mr Carlsons opening questions to deliver a nearly half-hour lecture on the history of Russia and Ukraine going back to the year 832, followed by his typical litany of grievances about the West, Peter Baker writes for the Times. Mr Carlson pressed Mr Putin to release Evan Gershkovich, the Wall Street Journal reporter arrested in Russia a year ago on espionage charges that he and his employer have vehemently denied, but barely challenged the Russian leader and let him talk at length uninterrupted. That concludes our coverage of the Carlson interview of Putin. Thank you for reading. Nikki Haley Fires Back at Biden Over Civil War Commentary (Photo: South Carolina Governor Nikki R. Haley/Public Domain) Nikki Haley, the former U.N. envoy and Governor of South Carolina, stands as a defiant figure amidst a storm of challenges and opposition within the Republican Party. Despite facing isolation from party allies and the daunting reality of primary defeats, Haley's resolve remains unshaken as she continues her bid for the Republican presidential nomination for the 2024 election. Haley's campaign has encountered significant headwinds, notably in her home state of South Carolina, where the majority of the Republican congressional delegation and state legislature have thrown their support behind Trump. This move has intensified the sense of alienation felt within Haley's camp, with one aide likening the situation to being under siege by "F-16 fighter jets." The recent Nevada caucuses further underscored her uphill battle, where Trump clinched victory and Haley was notably absent from the ballot. In a surprising turn, the "none of these candidates" option outperformed Haley in a preceding primary, signaling a clear preference among Nevada Republicans for Trump's candidacy. Despite these setbacks, Haley has ramped up her campaign efforts, rolling out leadership teams in states with later voting dates and maintaining a vigorous schedule of events, including a series of appearances in South Carolina and a rally planned in Dallas. Her persistence is fueled by a strategy that seeks to amass delegates, positioning herself as a viable alternative should Trump face legal or political obstacles that hinder his nomination. Haley's tenacity is mirrored in her sharpened rhetoric against Trump, whom she has criticized for his campaign expenditures on legal fees and his reluctance to engage in debates. She has positioned herself as an outsider challenging the Republican establishment, drawing contrasts with Trump by highlighting her resistance to the status quo. The Nevada results, coupled with the overwhelming support for Trump in the Virgin Islands caucuses, underscore the formidable challenge Haley faces. Trump's lead in delegate count significantly outpaces Haley's, setting a high bar for her campaign moving forward. The upcoming South Carolina primary and Super Tuesday contests loom large, potentially defining moments in Haley's quest for the nomination. Amidst the political tumult, Haley's personal life has also been disrupted by swatting incidents targeting her family home, adding a layer of concern that has led her team to request U.S. Secret Service protection. Despite the adversity, Haley's supporters remain loyal, appreciating her willingness to challenge Trump and provide an alternative voice within the party. Her campaign, buoyed by substantial fundraising efforts, signals a commitment to persist, even as the path to the nomination narrows. As the political drama unfolds, Haley's campaign encapsulates the complexities and internal divisions within the Republican Party, setting the stage for a contentious and unpredictable primary season. Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL) will commission the country's newest oil refinery at Barmer in Rajasthan by January next year that will help meet rising fuel demand in the north India, a senior company executive said. "The 9 million tonnes a year refinery is 76 per cent mechanically complete and will be completed by year end or so. First product from the refinery will flow in December or January next year," HPCL director for refineries S Bharathan told reporters on the sidelines of India Energy Week here. The project is part of India's target of having an installed capacity to turn 450 million tonnes of crude oil into fuels such as petrol and diesel to meet the energy needs of the world's fastest growing major economy. India's current refining capacity is a shade under 254 million tonnes. He said the Barmer refinery will operate at 75 per cent to 80 per cent of the capacity in the first year as various units get commissioned. "The full capacity will be reached by 2027." HPCL currently operates two refineries at Mumbai and Vizag in Andhra Pradesh. It also has a joint venture refinery at Bhatinda in Punjab. The Vizag facility has just been expanded to 15 million tonnes from 8.33 million tonnes previously. The company sells more fuel than it currently produces and the Vizag expansion as well as Barmer refinery will bridge the gap. It controls roughly a fourth of petrol pumps in the country but just 13 per cent of the refining capacity. The Barmer refinery will also have a petrochemical complex, which will be commissioned a little later, he said. The refinery-cum-petrochemical complex is being built by joint venture company HPCL Rajasthan Refinery Ltd (HRRL), where HPCL holds 74 per cent stake and the Rajasthan government the remaining 26 per cent. The project was conceived in 2008 and was initially approved in 2013. It was reconfigured and work commencement was done in 2018. It will produce BS-VI grade petrol and diesel as well as petrochemical products like polypropylene, butadiene, linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), benzene and toluene and is slated to cater to the increased demand of petroleum and petrochemical products in the northern, western and central parts of India. The refinery-cum-petrochemical complex will cost Rs 72,937 crore. The Indian High Commissioner to the Maldives, Munu Mahawar, paid a courtesy call on Maldivian Commissioner General of Customs, Yoosuf Maaniu Mohamed, on Thursday. The discussions were centred around new areas of capacity building and collaboration in trade facilitation and mutual security. Both countries came to an agreement on exploring and carrying forward the multifaceted collaboration between the Maldives Customs Service (MCS) and the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC). The meeting took place in the backdrop of the strain in bilateral ties between the two countries over the disparaging social media posts by Maldivian junior ministers and government officials against Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Lakshadweep and the request for the withdrawal of Indian troops by Maladivian President Mohamed Muizzu. Taking to X, the Indian High Commission to the Maldives shared details of the meeting, posting, "A productive meeting with H.E. Commissioner General @yoosufmaaniu to further enhance our multifaceted collaboration between @CustomsMv and @cbic_india on capacity building, trade facilitation, and mutual security." "High Commissioner of India to the Maldives H.E. @AmbMunu paid a courtesy call on Commissioner General @yoosufmaaniu. The discussions were on strengthening coordination and cooperation as well as on proposed new areas for capacity building and training of MCS staff," read a post on the official X handle of Maldives Custom Service. Meanwhile, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday said India will replace military personnel at aviation platforms in the Maldives with 'competent technical personnel'. The Muizzu-led Maldivian government had formally requested that India withdraw its troops from Male. A second high-level group meeting in this regard took place in New Delhi on February 2, and a third meeting is scheduled to be held later this month. Addressing a weekly press briefing in the national capital, MEA spokesperson Randir Jaiswal said, "What we had to say, we made it out in the press release. This was done after the second high-level core group meeting. We also said that the third core group meeting would be subsequently held." "I would like to say that the present personnel will be replaced by competent Indian technical personnel," Jaiswal said. After the second meeting, the Maldives Foreign Ministry said in a statement that India will replace its military personnel on one of the three aviation platforms in the Maldives by March 10 and will complete the replacement by May 10. "Both sides agreed that the Government of India will replace the military personnel on one of the three aviation platforms by March 10, 2024, and will complete replacing military personnel on the other two platforms by May 10, 2024," the statement read. Notably, the MEA stated in its statement that both India and the Maldives have agreed on a set of mutually workable solutions to enable the continued operation of Indian aviation platforms that provide humanitarian and medical services to the people of the Maldives. "Both sides also agreed on a set of mutually workable solutions to enable continued operation of Indian aviation platforms that provide humanitarian and medical services to the people of the Maldives," it stated. Notably, the removal of Indian troops from the country was the main campaign plank of Muizzu's party ahead of the Presidential elections. Currently, there are around 70 Indian troops, along with Dornier 228 maritime patrol aircraft and two HAL Dhruv helicopters, stationed in the Maldives. A MEA spokesperson also spoke on the speculations regarding budgetary allocation to the Maldives in the Interim Budget 2024-25. Jaiswal said that Rs 779 crore has been allocated for the Maldives as against Rs 600 crore as projected earlier, and New Delhi continues to be a 'committed development partner' for Male. The validation phase of 'SADA TANSEEQ', the first joint military exercise between the Indian Army and the Royal Saudi Land Force was completed at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges on Thursday, according to an official statement. The 12-day exercise from January 29 to February 9 was aimed at achieving interoperability between the two forces and acquaint each other with operational procedures and combat drills under the UN mandate, it said. The Indian contingent of the 20th Battalion of The Brigade of Guards Regiment and the Saudi Arabian contingent comprising a group of 45 soldiers participated in the exercise conducted in two phases. The first phase focused on combat conditioning and tactical training. The second culminated in physical exercises and validation. Both contingents jointly took part in the validation phase which included the creation of a temporary operating base, the establishment of an intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance grid and a mobile vehicle check post and carrying out cordon-and-search operations, heliborne operations and house intervention drills. The closing ceremony of the joint exercise will be held on Friday, the statement added. Indian companies have been in touch with Petro Seychelles, the country's state-owned oil company, the minister said India and Seychelles will conduct a joint project for the introduction of biofuels in the island country in the coming year, Seychelles' Minister of Energy, Climate Change and Agriculture Flavien P Joubert told Business Standard on the sidelines of the 2024 India Energy Week here. While Seychelles joined the India-led Global Biofuel Alliance last year, it has yet to begin using the alternative fuel. Click here to follow our WhatsApp channel "We will have to do an assessment, and make sure the project comes out positive, on an economic note. We will decide whether to import biofuel or produce it from waste products on a national level," Joubert said. The country is keen on compressed biogas technology, which is expected to help with the waste problem. A total of 40 per cent of the waste in Seychelles is green waste which can be utilised. Business Standard reported last year that African nations were keen to replicate India's ethanol blending and biogas initiatives. Delegations from Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda were expected to visit India in December, but the visit was postponed. Oil exploration Seychelles is also keen on attracting foreign companies for exploration. The country has had discussions with Indian companies for the exploration of oil and gas deposits. Indian companies have been in touch with Petro Seychelles, the country's state-owned oil company, the minister said. "From our point of view, the big question is who is going to fund our energy transition. For us, oil installation could be a source of income for the country since we do not have many resources. Exploration started years ago and is still continuing. There hasn't been any campaign recently but we expect the companies to come back and carry on since there are blocks in the Sey Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) that are going to be explored," the minister said. Mostly consisting of shallow water, up to 50 meters in depth, Seychelles' EEZ spans 1.35 million square kilometres. The country has already cleared all necessary licences and made geographic data available, Joubert said. India and Seychelles have enjoyed cordial ties since bilateral relations were established in 1976. The country is of strategic importance to India as it lies close to global shipping and commerce lanes and is an important base in the fight against sea-borne terrorism and piracy in the Indian Ocean Region. Elon Musk has gone as far as to say that with technological advances, there will come a point where no job is needed. Musk revealed his own artificial intelligence chatbot, dubbed Grok, last year | Photo: Bloomberg United Parcel Service Inc.s largest layoffs in its 116-year history were made possible, in part, by new technologies including artificial intelligence, CEO Carol Tome said last week. Citing one example, she said that machine learning allows salespeople to put together proposals without having to ask pricing experts for guidance. UPS is among a growing number of companies facing an AI two-step of sorts: Showing investors how AI helps do more with less while simultaneously avoiding the fear-mongering that comes with directly linking technology with job cuts. A UPS spokesperson later said AI is not replacing workers, and that executives did not make an explicit connection between AI and the permanent layoffs on the companys earnings call. BlackRock Inc. last month said it would dismiss about 600 employees. In a memo to staff, CEO Larry Fink and President Rob Kapito pointed to dramatic industry shifts and perhaps most profound, new technologies are poised to transform our industry and every other industry. While Fink has been outspoken about his belief in AIs potential to turbocharge productivity, the new tech was not cited as a reason for the cuts. The asset manager still expects to have a larger staff by the end of the year as it expands certain parts of the business, according to the memo. Experts struggle to get an accurate picture of just how many jobs are being eliminated as AI rapidly advances. Since last May, US companies have announced more than 4,600 jobs cuts in order to free up resources to hire people with AI experience or because the technology replaced tasks, according to outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas Inc. But that estimate is certainly undercounting the true total, Senior Vice President Andrew Challenger said in an interview. There are probably more jobs in the economy that are being cut because of AI already than are getting attributed to that or announced. Every time a company mentions it, they get headlines across every news outlet for like a month, Challenger said. They would rather go under the radar most of the time. Last spring, International Business Machines Corp. drove headlines across the world when Chief Executive Officer Arvind Krishna told Bloomberg the company planned to pause hiring it thinks it could soon replace with AI. An IBM spokesperson said the company does not have a hiring freeze in place and plans to keep headcount level this year. Johnny Taylor, CEO of the Society for Human Resource Management, agreed that many of these kinds of cuts will happen quietly. IBM was a leader and was public about it, and got beaten up pretty bad, Taylor said in an interview in December. So the rest of them have said Were not going to announce it, Im just going to do it. Were going to reduce our headcount. Many firms may do that by significantly slowing hiring, he said. We will wake up three years from now and see much leaner organizations, he said. They will have replaced you without making a big announcement. After IBM, only a handful of companies have explicitly tied AI to job cuts or hiring freezes. In December, the Swedish buy now, pay later firm Klarna Inc. said it would freeze hiring as tools like OpenAIs ChatGPT cut down the time certain tasks take. We need fewer people to do the same thing, CEO Sebastian Siemiatkowski told the Telegraph. The right thing for us is just to say: lets not recruit now, lets see how this plays out. A spokesperson for Klarna declined to comment further. So far, most AI-related cuts have been in the tech industry, according to Challengers tally. Some companies, like homework help site Chegg and programmer help site Stack Overflow, cut staff after their businesses were directly undercut by AI products. Other companies, like file-storage service Dropbox, raced to refocus on the new technology, letting go of staff to make way for new hires with AI skill sets. In January, language-learning software company Duolingo Inc. chose not to renew about 10 per cent of its contractors. We just no longer need as many people to do the type of work some of these contractors were doing. Part of that could be attributed to AI, a spokesperson told Bloomberg, adding that Duolingo does not have a hiring freeze in place and is actively recruiting for a wide range of roles. The company said no full-time employees were affected and that the job reduction isnt a straight replacement of workers with AI, as many of its full-time employees and contractors use the technology in their work. These companies arent alone in their thinking, even if others dont say it out loud: Three out of four Fortune 500 chief human resources officers surveyed by Gallup last year said they see AI replacing jobs in their company in the next three years. Let's not pretend jobs are going to go away because of AI," said Bob Toohey, chief human resources officer at insurer Allstate Corp., adding that he was referring to the overall labor market, not his company specifically. There will be jobs lost, and also jobs enhanced. In his own department, Toohey said AI will change the work of the so-called learning and development teams that train Allstate employees in, say, a new method of handling claims. What once was a three-week process of creating content can now take less than a day. We are right in the throes of this now, he said. In the tech industry, some top executives have warned AI could eliminate certain jobs, with Elon Musk going so far as to say, There will come a point where no job is needed. But for the companies currently introducing AI to workers, there's often a more positive spin. The big thing youll hear companies say is theyre not focused on elimination, but augmentation trying to make people more effective and efficient, Challenger said. But clearly there are a lot of scenarios right now where one person could do the work of four or five people with the help of AI in a way they couldnt a year ago. Thats playing out on the ground even if were not hearing about it in big announcements from organizations. At meeting held on 09 February 2024 1. Termination of the Deposit Agreement with Citibank N.A. for Company's GDRs and 2. Delisting of GDRs from the Luxembourg Stock Exchange. The underlying equity shares of the Company are listed on the BSE and National Stock Exchange and will continue to be listed on both the stock exchanges following the termination of the Company's GDR Program. Powered by Capital Market - Live News Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content The Board of Finolex Cables at its meeting held on 09 February 2024 has approved the following: Parts of the country have been in the grips of a "war" with mosquitoes following humid, wet weather but locals are beginning to question "what on earth" is going on with these unwanted insects as some appear to be larger than normal. Areas in Queensland have been experiencing swarms of mosquitoes so much so that the City of Gold Coast recently announced they are pledging an additional $1 million to "tackle the escalating issue", while Brisbane City Council told Yahoo News Australia they have an "unlimited budget" to do the same. Among the influx of mosquitoes flying around are "huge" ones terrifying locals. But experts reveal these are not the ones to fear. Elephant mosquitoes may look intimidating but they are not the species to be worried about. Source: Reddit/City of Gold Coast "We've had a fair few mosquitoes around after some wet weather but this is really oversized," one person shared online alongside a photo of a large mozzie. "What on earth is going on with the mosquitoes in Brisbane?", shared another separately. No need to be afraid of the giant mosquitoes Toxorhynchites, known commonly as elephant mosquitoes, are large mosquitoes found along the eastern and north coast of Australia and are the gentle giants of the Culicinae subfamily. Surprisingly, though their size can cause fear they arent considered harmful as adults dont feed on blood according to Nicole Gunter, Scientist and Curator Entomology, Queensland Museum. "Their larvae are considered beneficial as they feed on the larvae of other mosquito species, including those that can transmit diseases," she told Yahoo. This is in comparison with the smaller mosquitoes which are the target of mosquito control programs including saltmarsh mosquitoes (Aedes vigilax), freshwater-breeding mosquitoes (Culex annulirostris), and container-breeding mosquitoes (Aedes notoscriptus). Story continues Other species such as the saltmarsh mosquitoes (Aedes vigilax) or freshwater-breeding mosquitoes are the target of council control programs. Source: Getty Council spraying '2,400 sites a week' to stem mosquito numbers Pest management teams on the Gold Coast and Brisbane have been dropping aerial sprays when airplanes or helicopters spray low volumes of insecticides into areas where mosquitoes are a problem and performing other pest management tactics in the fight against increased mosquito numbers due to it increasing the risk of mosquito-borne diseases. "We have dedicated all possible resources to getting this situation under control, and will continue to prioritise this work as we know it is a priority for our community right now," CEO of the City of Gold Coast Tim Baker said. The City announced at the end of January they have "waged a war" on mosquitoes and Baker revealed their additional $1 million of resources will be used to purchase more all-terrain vehicles and trailers, increase their aerial spray program, and continue drone trials. Brisbane City Council's Civic Cabinet Chair for City Standards Kim Marx told Yahoo on Friday they are currently spraying "2,400 sites a week" on the ground a "140 per cent increase" on their normal spraying schedule and have completed nine aerial sprays this financial year. According to Marx, it is the "only local government in Australia to employ expert entomologists". "And when they say to spray, we spray," she said. "We have an unlimited budget to tackle mozzies and will continue our increased spaying schedule as long as the expert entomologist tell us its required." Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. The offer received bids for 18.71 crore shares as against 1.01 crore shares on offer. The issue opened for bidding on Wednesday (7 February 2024) and it will close on Friday (9 February 2024). The price band of the IPO is fixed at Rs 393-414 per share. An investor can bid for a minimum of 36 equity shares and in multiples thereof. The offer comprises of fresh issue of equity shares aggregating up to Rs 462 crore and offer for sale of up to 26,08,629 equity shares. The promoter, Jana Holdings, is not participating in the OFS. The promoter shareholding would decline to 22.5% post IPO from 25.2% pre-IPO. The bank proposes to utilize the net proceeds from the offer towards augmenting Banks Tier I capital base to meet future capital requirements. The listing of the bank is also in line with the terms of the RBI SFB licensing guidelines, requiring the bank to list its equity shares on the stock exchanges within three years from reaching network of Rs 500 crore. Ahead of the IPO, Jana Small Finance Bank on Tuesday, 6 February 2024 raised Rs 166.94 crore from anchor investors. The board allotted 40.32 lakh shares at Rs 414 each to 17 anchor investors. Incorporated in July 2006, Jana SFB is a non-banking finance company primarily engaged in providing MSME loans, affordable housing loans, term loans to NBFC, loans against fixed deposits, two-wheeler loans and gold loans. Jana SFB offers various unsecured loan products, including individual and micro business loans, agricultural and allied loans, and group loans. Jana SFB is the fourth largest Small Finance Bank in terms of AUM as well as in terms of deposit size end September 2023. The bank has 771 banking outlets, including 278 banking outlets in unbanked rural centers, in 22 states and two union territories. The bank has served nearly 12 million customers since 2008, including 4.87 million active customers end-September 2023. The firm reported a net profit of Rs 213.22 crore and net total income of Rs 1,339.26 crore for the six months ended on 30 September 2023. Powered by Capital Market - Live News Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content The initial public offer (IPO) of Jana Small Finance Bank received 18,71,99,892 bids for shares as against 1,01,16,284 shares on offer, according to stock exchange data at 17:45 IST on Friday (9 February 2024). The issue was subscribed 18.50 times. For collaboration on 'C-390' - the most modern military transport aircraft Embraer Defense & Security and Mahindra announced today that they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the objective of jointly fulfilling the acquisition of the C-390 Millennium multi-mission aircraft by the Indian Air Force in its upcoming Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) procurement project. The MoU was signed at the Embassy of Brazil in New Delhi. Embraer and Mahindra will engage with the Indian Air Force to identify the next steps of the MTA program, as well as contact the local aerospace industry in India to start developing the industrialization plan for the project. The MoU was signed by Embraer Defense & Security and Mahindra Defence Systems, a 100% owned subsidiary of Mahindra, that focuses on armored transport and security-related products including electronics. Embraer has an established presence in India across the fields of defense, commercial aviation and executive aviation. In August 2023, Embraer held a C-390 Millennium Day in New Delhi, India to deepen engagement with the local aerospace industry which was very well attended by the Indian ecosystem. The C-390 Millennium multi-mission tactical transport aircraft offers unmatched mobility, combining high productivity and operating flexibility with low operating costs, which is an unbeatable combination. Since entering operation with the Brazilian Air Force in 2019 and most recently with the Portuguese Air Force in 2023, the C-390 has proven its capacity, reliability, and performance. The current fleet of aircraft in operation has accumulated more than 11500 flight hours, with operational availability of around 80% and mission completion rates above 99%, demonstrating exceptional productivity in the category. The C-390 Millennium attained its Full Operational Capability status by the Brazilian Air Force in 2023, which endorses the platform's capability to carry out all missions it was designed to undertake. To date, the C-390 Millennium has been selected by Brazil, Portugal, Hungary, the Netherlands, Austria, the Czech Republic and most recently, South Korea. The C-390, the most modern military transport aircraft in the market, can carry more payload (26 tonne) compared to other medium-sized military transport aircraft and flies 870 km/h (470 knot). It is capable of performing a wide range of missions such as transporting and dropping cargo and troops, medical evacuation, search and rescue, aerial firefighting, and humanitarian missions, operating on temporary or unpaved runways such as packed earth, soil, and gravel. The aircraft configured with air-to-air refueling equipment, with the designation KC-390, has already proven its aerial refueling capacity both as a tanker and as a receiver, in this case by receiving fuel from another KC-390 using pods installed under the wings. The collaboration around the C-390 Millennium will bring the latest technology in terms of aerospace & military transport aircraft to India. Both Embraer and Mahindra will explore the potential to turn India into a future hub of the C-390 aircraft for the region. Powered by Capital Market - Live News For cash consideration of Rs 372 crore The 200 bedded hospital owned & operated by Alexis is a JCI accredited facility located on a land parcel of ~2 acres at Mankapur, North of Nagpur - an upmarket residential and commercial hub. The hospital has G+6 floors and a basement with built up area of ~2.25 Lakh sft and offers multidisciplinary care in the areas of Gastroenterology, Neurosurgery, Cardiology, Transplants, related diagnostic facilities etc. The hospital is equipped with high end bio medical equipment like Varian True Beam LINAC, 128 Slice CT Scan, 3 Tesla MRI, Digital X Ray, ARTIS Q Cath Lab, etc. The bed capacity can be expanded to ~340 beds in view of the availability of the FAR for the given land and the strength of the existing structure. Further, the hospital medical program can be further strengthened in the surgical specialties like CTVS, Urology, Oncology & Neurosciences leading to improvement in average revenue per occupied bed (ARPOB) and occupied bed days(OBD). The current run rate of Revenue & EBITDA for the Hospital is Rs 150 crore & Rs 25 crroe respectively. The hospital is generating cash & has good brand equity in the market in the region. The cost of acquisition is Rs 372 crore. Powered by Capital Market - Live News Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content Max Healthcare Institute announced the acquisition of 100% stake in Alexis MultiSpeciality Hospital (Alexis) for an enterprise value of Rs 412 crore. Indian government bond yields were largely unchanged on Friday after an initial uptick in opening trades, as the market awaited a fresh supply of debt via the weekly auction. The fresh supply comes a day after the central bank's monetary policy decision disappointed markets as it lacked any dovish commentary. India's benchmark 10-year yield was at 7.0808 per cent as of 10:00 a.m. IST, following its previous close of 7.0789 per cent. "There was an initial pressure, but broadly demand-supply dynamics are looking favourable in the near term, and as the auction cycle is nearing its end, benchmark yield is unable to break the 7.08 per cent-7.10 per cent zone on the upside," a trader with a primary dealership said. New Delhi aims to raise 330 billion rupees ($3.98 billion), including 160 billion rupees of the benchmark paper, in its penultimate debt auction for the current financial year. The debt supply comes a day after the Reserve Bank of India, in its last monetary policy decision for this fiscal, kept rates and stance unchanged without providing major dovish guidance, while reiterating its commitment to meet the inflation target. "The last mile of disinflation is always the most challenging and that has to be kept in mind," RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das said. The central bank estimated retail inflation at 5.4 per cent in 2023-24, unchanged from its previous projection, and expected it to ease to 4.5 per cent in the next financial year, assuming normal rains. "The inflation projection of next year may be conservative and we may see some change in stance post July-September next year. The RBI will consider easing liquidity first and then will resort to cutting rates if required," said Alok Singh, group head of treasury at CSB Bank. Meanwhile, U.S. yields remain elevated with the 10-year yield around the 4.15 per cent mark, ahead of key inflation data due next week, which may give further clues on when the Federal Reserve is likely to begin cutting rates. The odds of a Fed rate cut in May have declined to around 62 per cent from 94 per cent last week. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday claimed that the BJP-led alliance will win at least 100 out of the state's 126 seats in the 2026 assembly polls, and form the third consecutive NDA government in Assam. Replying to the Motion of Thanks on the Governor's address in the assembly, Sarma said nearly 2.3 lakh indigenous people will be given land rights under 'Mission Basundhara' by his government. "In 2026, we will not get less than 100 seats and form the government. My government's tenure of three years is not a big time, but several landmark decisions have been taken in these three years. It has been the golden period for Assam," he claimed. There was no movement or agitation during this period as people believed in development and progress, he said. During Congress tenure, the number of medical colleges went up from three to six, while it has reached 25 during BJP's rule, Sarma said. "Over 7,000 youth came out of the jungle and joined the mainstream. The number of bridges over Brahmaputra has also more than doubled in the last few years, and work for three more will start soon. We have brought those to the discussion table who wanted to divide Assam," he said. He also informed the House that not a single person from any terror outfit, or police or the Army died in the state last year. During his 1 hour 56 minute speech, Sarma said the three years of his government have "changed the future" of Assam and the entire country was talking about it. The BJP-led NDA won 75 seats in the 2021 assembly polls. While the BJP bagged 60 seats, its allies AGP and UPPL won nine and six seats, respectively. In the opposition camp, the Congress had won 29, AIUDF 16, BPF four and CPI(M) cornered one seat. The Raijor Dal also won a seat. "Under Mission Basundhara, 2,29,660 indigenous people will get land pattas who already had control over the land. Out of them, 1.95 lakh are SCs, STs and OBCs, meaning our indigenous people. Around 30,000 are from the general community," Sarma said. While taking part in a discussion on Cut Motion earlier, Sarma said that those people who have been living in Assam for at least 100 years or three generations are termed indigenous under 'Mission Basundhara'. "Land is a precious thing. All applicants (under Mission Basundhara) cannot get it. We are giving it very selectively and carefully. Right now, we are giving it to the aboriginal people. A big land reform has begun," the CM said. He asserted that his government will be remembered for stopping child marriage and curbing drugs menace, but not for extra-judicial killings of drug peddlers or poachers. "This government has never compromised with anyone. Give us a few more years as we too have some dreams for a new Assam," he said. Sarma said that 150 out of 1,500 medical students were from the minority community, while the highest number of houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) have been allotted to Muslims. "We are going to hand over six lakh houses in one day. We are talking to the prime minister, who will come and do the honours," he said. Sarma also said that all the people who had migrated from Bangladesh at one point of time must respect the heritage sites of Assam and assimilate with the people here, thereby establishing a new definition of harmony. "When (AIUDF chief and MP) Badruddin Ajmal will give a whip that there should be only two children in every house, I will call everyone Assamese. If that happens, nobody will call you non-Assamese," he added. Noting the differences between Hindus and Muslims, Sarma claimed that it lies in societal norms and "feudalism still persists" among the minority community. On the poverty alleviation scheme Orunodoi, he said that many other states are implementing it after witnessing the success in Assam. Claiming robust financial health, he said that the state's GDP is likely to rise to Rs 6.43 lakh crore next fiscal from Rs 5.67 lakh crore in this financial year. It was Rs 4.93 lakh crore in the last fiscal. "We have repaid all loans taken during Congress rule. Assam's current borrowing stands at 23 per cent of GDP against the permitted limit of 32 per cent. It is the seventh lowest in the country," Sarma said. The budgetary expenditure has soared to Rs 1.22 lakh crore in 2023-24 from Rs 42,000 crore in 2015-16, while revenue currently stands at Rs 99,662 crore, he said. Replying to the opposition's criticism of huge expenditure for helicopter services, Sarma said it was for the CM for official purposes only and it increased the efficiency of the government by reducing travel time. On inter-state border disputes with other Northeastern states, Sarma said that Assam should not "impose" its thoughts and must be generous enough to listen to the grievances of other states, "who were once part of Assam". External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will address the 7th Indian Ocean Conference in Australia's Perth that gets underway today with the theme "Towards a Stable and Sustainable Indian Ocean." The Indian Ocean Conference is a flagship consultative forum for countries in the Indian Ocean Region, organized annually by the Ministry of External Affairs, in association with the India Foundation. The conference will be held in association with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Government of Australia, along with the S Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Singapore and the Perth-US Asia Centre in Australia. According to Ministry of External Affairs press release, "The theme of this edition of the conference is Towards a Stable and Sustainable Indian Ocean," This significant gathering, organized annually by the Ministry of External Affairs in association with the India Foundation, marks a collaborative effort with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Government of Australia, the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Singapore, and the Perth-US Asia Centre in Australia. The 7th Indian Ocean Conference brings together distinguished leaders and delegates to deliberate on crucial regional issues. The event will witness participation from delegations led by Ministers from over 22 countries and senior officials from 16 countries and 6 multilateral organizations. Furthermore, over 400 social and corporate leaders, policy practitioners, scholars, professionals, and media personnel from about 40 countries actively engaged in the Conference. Since its inception in 2016 in Singapore, the Indian Ocean Conference has been instrumental in fostering collaboration among nations and principal maritime partners in the region. Through its platform, the Conference endeavors to facilitate discourse on the prospects of regional cooperation for Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR). The 7th Indian Ocean Conference stands as a testament to the collective commitment towards enhancing stability and sustainability across the Indian Ocean Region. In an indirect goodwill message to India, Pakistan's former premier Nawaz Sharif on Friday said that his government would try to improve relations with the neighbouring countries. Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) technically emerged the single largest party in the National Assembly despite the fact that the number of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf supported independent candidates was higher than any political party. "We would improve ties with the world and with our neighbours and try to solve all issues with them (neighbours)," the 74-year-old former three-time premier said. He asked his supporters if they agree with his point of view (regarding ties with neighbours), and hundreds of supporters present to hear him apparently backed him with a roar. While Sharif stopped mentioning India directly in his speech, the use of word "neighbours" could hardly be missed as Sharif in his previous tenures also tried to mend ties with India. However, terror attacks on Indian defence installations by Pakistan-based terrorists derailed the Indo-Pak relations. Sharif made the speech as the complete result of the 265 contested seats of the National Assembly was still awaited. According to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), the results of 224 constituencies have been declared, showing that independents won 92 seats, PML-N 63, PPP 50, Muttahida Qaumi Movement 12 and other parties got 7 seats. The independents were supported by the PTI and they could join any party after elections except the PTI because its intra-party elections were declared null and void and it was deprived of a common symbol before elections. Amid the counting of votes in Pakistan, US Congress lawmakers have condemned the use of political violence, cell phone service shutdowns and restrictions on freedom of expression in the country. US Congresswoman Dina Titus has condemned the use of political violence and the restriction on freedom of expression in Pakistan. She called free and fair elections the cornerstone of a functioning democracy. In a post on X, Dina Titus stated, "Free and fair elections are the cornerstone of a functioning democracy. I condemn the use of political violence and the restriction on freedoms of expression in Pakistan. I am closely monitoring the situation on the ground and urge officials to adhere to the rule of law." Polling for general elections in Pakistan concluded amid allegations of rigging and the shutdown of cellular and internet services, Pakistan-based Dawn reported. The voting process began at 8 am and continued till 5 pm. The Election Commission of Pakistan earlier said that exceptions would only be made for people already inside the polling station. However, the polling is not being considered free and fair, as many allegations were levelled regarding the rigging and people being barred from voting. US Congressman Brad Sherman has said that press organisations in Pakistan should be free to report vote tabulations and stressed that there should not be delay in announcing the election results. "Press organizations in #Pakistan should be free to report vote tabulations and there should be no unwarranted delay in announcing results," Brad Sherman posted on X. US Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib said democracy in Pakistan is at serious risk. She stated that people in Pakistan should be able to elect their leaders without interference and tampering with the process. In a post on X, Tlaib stated, "We must stand with the Pakistani people as their democracy is at serious risk. They should be able to elect their leaders without interference and tampering with the process, and the U.S. must ensure our tax dollars don't go to anyone undermining that." US Congressman Greg Casar said that Pakistanis have the right to elect their leaders without cell phone service shutdowns and other authoritian practices aimed to undermine polls results. "Pakistanis have the right to elect their leaders without cell phone service shutdowns & other authoritarian practices aimed at undermining election results. The U.S. must stand with the Pakistani people & make clear we will not support anyone working to undermine democracy," Greg Casar posted on X. Earlier, the US Department of State condemned the election-related violence and internet shutterdowns on the voting day in Pakistan, saying that they were concerned about the curbs on the exercise of freedom of expression in the country. "Pakistanis went to the polls today to vote. Pakistan's future leadership is for the Pakistani people to decide and our interests continued to be in the democratic process. We strongly condemn all instances of election-related violence. Election-related violence, we believe, affected a broad range of political parties across Pakistan," the principal deputy spokesperson of the US State Department, Vedant Patel, said during a media briefing on Thursday. "It impacted polling stations, election officers as well as the Election commission. We are concerned about the restrictions on the exercise of freedom of expression. We are tracking reports of restrictions on Internet and cell phone access across Pakistan on polling day," he added. The statement of US lawmakers comes after the credibility of Pakistan's most expensive general elections was called into question with the suspension of cellular networks, restricting the movements of voters, terrorist attacks, and curbing media coverage, Pakistan-based The News International reported. According to the report, the caretaker government had assured Pakistanis that network connectivity would not be affected during the election day. However, just before the beginning of voting on Thursday, mobile internet services were shut down 'temporarily'. Eight minutes ahead of the beginning of the voting process, Pakistan's Caretaker Ministry of Interior said the cellular services across Pakistan would remain suspended as part of the 'security measures', noting that they were 'inevitable'. The daily reported that PKR 42 billion was spent to conduct general elections, making them the most expensive in the country's history. The amount was 26 per cent more than what was spent in the 2018 elections, the report stated, adding that the increase was due to security and other arrangements by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP). With more than 128 million people registered as voters, it was the biggest election in Pakistan's history. This sudden decision to suspend mobile internet services caused inconvenience to all the stakeholders in the elections--voters, political actors, polling agents, observers, and reporters, according to the report. The media coverage of the polls, too, was blocked, with reporters complaining of several roadblocks in the collection of information and dissemination of results post-balloting, The News International reported. Quoting a Karachi-based reporter, the daily stated that journalists faced major issues in gathering information. "We got some videos later on, but had the [connectivity] been there, it would have been easier," the reporter was quoted as saying by the daily. "It affected news organisations, journalists, and election observers' abilities to cover the event," he added. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf has alleged rigging underway in Lahore's NA 126 constituency. In a post on X, PTI stated, "NA 126 Returning Officer's Office Video Rangers and army are stationed outside, inside presiding officer form 45 is being thrown and voluntary form 45 is being made and the voluntary record is being uploaded on the portal. Form 46 detailing the remaining ballot papers has also been torn up At present this is being done in most circles across the country. The Senate Democrats international corporate tax proposals dont yet prescribe specific tax rates, leaving that to lawmakers to fill in as they consider the broader bill. (Photo: Bloomberg) The Senate on Thursday voted to begin work on a package of wartime funding for Ukraine and other U.S. allies, but doubts remained about support from Republicans who rejected a carefully negotiated compromise that also included border enforcement policies. A vote to begin work on the new package cleared on a 67-32 vote, but the legislation's path remained uncertain. Senate leaders had not agreed to a process to limit the debate time for the bill. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer called the vote a good first step" and pledged that the Senate would keep working on this bill -- until the job is done. The New York Democrat has tried to salvage $60 billion in aid for Ukraine, as well as roughly $35 billion for Israel, other allies and national security priorities, after the collapse this week of a bipartisan agreement to tie border enforcement policies to the package. Republicans are divided about how to proceed, and GOP leaders were still scrambling to find a plan that their senators could back. Senate Republicans were fractured and frustrated as Senate GOP leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky tried to find a way to squeeze the assistance for Ukraine through Congress. If the measure passes the Senate, it is expected to be even more difficult to win approval in the Republican-controlled House, where Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., has been noncommittal on the aid. Some Republicans in the Senate have also vowed to do everything they could to delay final action. I'll object to anything speeding up this rotten foreign spending bill's passage, said Sen. Rand Paul, a Kentucky Republican, on X. The U.S. is already out of money to send missiles and ammunition to Kyiv, just as the nearly two-year-old war reaches a crucial juncture. Ukraine supporters say the drop-off in U.S. support is already being felt on the battlefield and by civilians. Russia has renewed its commitment to the invasion with relentless attacks. There are people in Ukraine right now, in the height of their winter, in trenches, being bombed and being killed, said Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C. Yet many of his Republican colleagues have expressed serious reservations about supporting a new round of funding for Ukraine. Even after rejecting the bipartisan border plan as insufficient, they have again insisted on tying border measures to the foreign aid. My priority is border security. It's always been border security. I think we need a new bill, said Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kan. It took Senate negotiators roughly three months of nearly round-the-clock work to craft the border proposal rejected by Republican senators some of whom announced their opposition within minutes of the bill text being released. As the deal collapsed, Schumer, a New York Democrat, moved to strip the border provisions from the legislation and create the standalone $95 billion package. It would send $14 billion in military aid to Israel, invest in domestic defense manufacturing, provide funding for allies in Asia, and allot $10 billion for humanitarian efforts in Ukraine, Israel, Gaza and other places. The revamped package includes legislation to authorize sanctions and anti-money laundering tools against criminal enterprises that traffic fentanyl into the U.S. A separate section of the compromise border legislation that would have provided a long-awaited pathway to residency for tens of thousands of Afghan refugees was dropped in the slimmed-down bill. New York Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Richard Ball said he would review a proposed solar energy project in Seneca County after questioning from state Sen. Tom O'Mara, who said it's a "significant concern." O'Mara, R-Big Flats, asked Ball about the project during an environmental conservation budget hearing Wednesday. Delaware River Solar wants to use 675 acres of land in the town of Tyre to install a 128-megawatt solar energy facility. There is local opposition to the project, including from several residents worried about the environmental impact. Tyre Supervisor Elizabeth Partee wrote a letter to Gov. Kathy Hochul expressing her belief that the project "would cause harm to our community." O'Mara, whose district includes all of Seneca County, noted that a significant portion of the 675-acre site is "prime farmland." Other aspects of the project are concerning, including its proximity to the refuge. During the hearing, O'Mara quizzed Ball about his role in providing input on solar energy projects that involve farmland. Ball explained that through a memorandum of understanding with the state Department of Environmental Conservation and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, they are able to highlight the need to avoid projects that would use actively farmed land. "We all look at it and we all evaluate it," Ball said. "We have the ability to mitigate." He compared the mitigation efforts to how DEC oversees wetland usage. If an acre of wetland is taken for a project, another acre of wetland must be created elsewhere. With solar energy projects, he said that for every acre of active farmland used, an acre of farmland must be preserved in another location. The final decision on the project rests with the state Office of Renewable Energy Siting. Because the proposed solar energy facility would generate more than 25 megawatts of power, it is not subject to local oversight. One indication the state will allow the project to proceed is an announcement in October that Delaware River Solar was one of the recipients of a conditional land-based large-scale renewable energy award. It was one of 22 projects included in the round of awards, according to Hochul's office. The proposed solar energy project is "one of the most concerning ones I've seen," O'Mara told Ball. He said there are other sites that could be used, including the Seneca Army Depot. "That's where we should be focusing these types of projects and not taking up our valuable farmland," O'Mara added. Ian Phillips managed John Mannion's first campaign six years ago. Now, they are both candidates for political office and won the support of the Onondaga County Democratic Committee. Mannion, a two-term state senator, was designated by Onondaga County Democrats to run for Congress. According to his campaign, he received 73% of the vote at the committee's designation meeting Thursday. "Central New York and the Mohawk Valley deserve a proven fighter in Washington who puts people over politics, and has a strong legislative record of delivering results, not empty rhetoric," Mannion, D-Geddes, said, adding that the Democrats' path to the majority "runs straight through New York's 22nd Congressional District." Mannion beat out three other Democrats Sarah Klee Hood, Clemmie Harris and Jake Addington for the Onondaga County Democrats' endorsement. A primary is likely in the central New York race for Congress. The Democrats are vying to unseat U.S. Rep. Brandon Williams, a freshman Republican, in the 22nd Congressional District. The current district includes all of Onondaga, Madison and Oneida counties, plus a portion of Oswego County. The district could change in the coming weeks. The state Court of Appeals directed a state redistricting commission to draw new congressional district maps. The maps must be submitted to the state Legislature by Feb. 28. Onondaga County Democrats also endorsed candidates for state Legislature, including Phillips. Phillips, D-Auburn, is challenging Republican Assemblyman John Lemondes in the 126th Assembly District, which includes parts of Cayuga and Onondaga counties. "People are fed up with politics as usual and so am I," Phillips said after the endorsement meeting. "I'm running for Assembly because central New Yorkers deserve great schools, not banned books; clean lakes and drinking water, not fracking and toxic algae; and good middle-class jobs, not tax cuts for the wealthy." In the 50th Senate District, Onondaga County Legislator Chris Ryan received the party's support over Tom Drumm, a former Oswego County legislator. Drumm and Ryan are running to succeed Mannion, who represents the 50th district. Canada Border Services Agency The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) provides critical support to law enforcement partners to disrupt, investigate and ultimately prosecute these crimes. Upfront, preventative and investigative workwithin Canada, ahead of reaching the borderis imperative to reduce auto theft overall. The CBSA acts on 100% of referrals from local police and works closely with governments and jurisdictions to intercept stolen vehicles and identify criminal activity within the supply chain. In addition, the Government of Canada is increasing the capacity of the CBSA by investing $28 million to conduct more investigations and examinations of stolen vehicles, as well as enhance collaboration on investigations and intelligence sharing with partners across Canada and Internationally. This includes exploring detection technology solutions, and exploring the use of advanced analytical tools, such as artificial intelligence. Royal Canadian Mounted Police Local police have the primary responsibility to investigate stolen vehicle offences. The Criminal Intelligence Service Canada, stewarded by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), coordinates criminal intelligence sharing and analysis between federal, provincial and municipal police forces. The RCMP leverages port enforcement capacity in select provinces as part of its Border Integrity Program, helping to identify, assess and respond to significant inbound and outbound threats at Canadas borders, at seaports, airports, land ports of entry and between ports of entry into Canada. The RCMP works closely with its international partners and maintains strong relationships with law enforcement agencies worldwide. These relationships are essential to Canadas ability to deal with global threats, such as serious and organized crime. Justice Canada Ensuring people in Canada feel safe in their communities is a top priority. Canada has a robust criminal law framework to address auto theft at various stages of the crime, as well as its links to organized crime. The Department of Justice Canada will, in consultation with provinces and territories, examine potential amendments to the Criminal Code to further strengthen the legal framework related to auto theft, including by reviewing existing offences and penalties. Transport Canada Transport Canada will modernize the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards to ensure they consider technological advancements to deter and prevent auto theft. The Department will also work with public safety partners to identify cargo handling vulnerabilities through targeted security assessments of port facilities. Based on the assessments, the Department will work with port facilities on corrective actions and to implement updated security plans. Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada will work with Canadian companies, and the automotive industry, to develop new solutions to protect vehicles against theft and to assist with recovery of stolen vehicles. ISED will pursue all avenues to ban devices used to steal vehicles by copying the wireless signals for remote keyless entry, such as the Flipper Zero, which would allow for the removal of those devices from the Canadian marketplace through collaboration with law enforcement agencies. The Chinese automotive market in 2023 experienced significant turbulence, marked by accelerated electrification progress, enhanced onboard intelligence features, and intensifying price wars. While domestic automakers surged forward collectively, Chery Holding, as a prominent representative among traditional automakers in China, delivered an impressive performance in 2023, with substantial growth in the new energy vehicle market and commendable achievements overseas. Photo credit: Chery Holding Gasgoo recently conducted an annual assessment for 2023, spotlighting major automotive companies and component manufacturers. This article revisits the notable occurrences that defined Chery Holding's journey throughout last year. Chery Holding achieves highest-ever sales in 2023, surpassing 1.88 million units Chery Holding released its annual sales report for 2023, closing the year with a remarkable performance. With 215,690 vehicles sold in December, the group has seen consecutive month-on-month growth for 12 months last year. Chery Fulwin T9 plug-in hybrid electric SUV rolls off line Fulwin, the new energy vehicle range of Chery, saw the first T9 vehicle roll off the assembly line at the Chery Qingdao intelligent factory on December 28. Chery kicks off pre-sale of Fulwin A8 new energy sedan, starting at 130,000 yuan On December 24, Chery's new energy vehicle range, Fulwin (also known as 'Fengyun' in Chinese), officially kicked off pre-sale for its first flagship model, the Fulwin A8 sedans 127 Extended Range edition, with a price range of 130,000 yuan to 150,000 yuan. Chery EXEED puts STERRA ES onto market, starting at 225,800 yuan On December 20, the STERRA ES from Chery's EXEED brand hit the market with five different trim levels, priced from 225,800 yuan to 339,800 yuan. Chery iCAR 03 Smart Driving Edition adopts DJI Automotives pure-vision intelligent driving solution On December 18, 2023, Chery New Energy kicked off pre-sale of the iCAR 03 Smart Driving Edition, marking the world's inaugural mass-produced vehicle equipped with advanced intelligent driving capabilities relying solely on biologically inspired binocular pure vision sensors, as confirmed by the systems supplier, DJI Automotive. Huawei invites SERES, Chery, JAC, BAIC to join new automotive venture At the recent Luxeed S7 and Huawei's Full-Scene New Product Launch on November 28, Yu Chengdong, CEO of the Consumer BG, Chairman of the Intelligent Automotive Solution Business Unit (IAS BU), stated Huawei's intention for its car BU to operate independently. Huawei & Cherys Luxeed S7 electric sedan begins pre-sale, starting at 258,000 yuan On November 9, Huawei and Chery kicked off pre-sale of their collaborative masterpiece, the Luxeed S7, which is also the inaugural electric sedan model from Huawei Smart Selection's automotive endeavors. Chery shares latest technological advancements at 2023 Chery Technology Day On October 16, 2023, Chinese automaker Chery Holding held its 2023 Technology Day event where it unveiled the latest technological advancements under the Yaoguang 2025 Technology suite. Chery debuts multiple models at Geneva International Motor Show On October 5, the Geneva International Motor Show 2023 was opened in Doha, Qatar, featuring a dazzling display from Chinese automaker Chery Holding. Chery Holding showcased a diverse lineup of its CHERY, EXEED, and JAECOO brands, demonstrating its prowess in pure electric, hybrid, and conventional fuel vehicles. Chery JETOUR puts Traveler light off-roader on sale, starting at 139,900 yuan On Tuesday, JETOUR, Chery Holdings SUV-dedicated brand, officially put the Traveler light off-road SUV onto the market. The Traveler embodies JETOUR's vision of providing a comfortable and liberating travel experience to its customers. Chery eQ7 electric SUV hits market, starting at 129,900 yuan On September 12, 2023, Chery officially put its Shuxiangjia pure-electric SUV onto the market. The name Shuxiangjia is the models official Chinese name, while it is also known as the Chery eQ7 in English. iFLYTEK's Spark AI large model to be deployed onto Chery's STERRA ES model On August 17, a significant event was held by iFLYTEK and Chery to announce the installation of the formers Spark AI cognitive large model onto the latters EXEED STERRA ES vehicle model. This collaboration between the smart speech solution developer and the automaker brings vehicles closer to "thinking like humans." Chery Holding Group ranks 168th on 2023 Fortune China 500 List The 2023 Fortune China 500 list was unveiled on July 25, featuring both public and non-public enterprises that applied for the ranking this year. Making its debut on the list, Chery Holding Group, with a revenue of $22.3015 billion, secured the 168th position. Chery Auto plans to build factories in Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand Chery Automobile, the renowned Chinese automaker, unveiled its strategic plans for the ASEAN market during the China-ASEAN Forum on Emerging Industries on July 5. Cherys Kunpeng Electric Hybrid C-DM dedicated engines, transmissions roll off line On June 2, Chery Auto held a ceremony to celebrate the Kunpeng Super Performance Electric Hybrid C-DM dedicated engines and transmissions rolling off the production line, indicating Cherys comprehensive entry into a new era of electric hybrid performance. Chery Holding, CATARC build several joint labs for smart NEV technologies On April 25, China Automotive Technology & Research Center (CATARC) and Chinese major automaker Chery Holding formed a partnership that covers such fields as automotive engineering technology services, digital business, information services, public services, and overseas deployment. Chery Holding introduces iCAR new energy vehicle brand On April 16, Chery Holding held a launch event for its iCAR new energy vehicle-dedicated brand, and unveiled two of the first iCAR vehicle models at the same time. Chery Holding launches new energy vehicle-dedicated strategy On April 7, Chery Holding released new strategies, new technologies, new brands, and new products in the new energy vehicle (NEV) field under the "Yao Guang 2025" strategic empowerment at an event held in Beijing. Chery Automobile introduces Mars Architecture super hybrid platform On February 27, Chery Automobile launched the Mars Architecture - Super Hybrid Platform, and the Tiggo 9 SUV, which rides on the platform, at an event in Beijing. Chery so far ships 2.4 million vehicles overseas During the just ended Chinese Lunar New Year holiday, Chery Holding Group (Chery) successively shipped 24,000 vehicles to eleven countries in Europe, Central Asia, Australia, and South America, the automaker disclosed on January 30. You could say that a lot is riding on the Lexus LBX. Not only is it Lexus first three-letter named model after the LFA supercar, but becaus... LAS VEGASViben, a renowned leader in the adult toy industry, has announced its participation in the upcoming Altitude Intimates Show. The event will be held at the Paris Las Vegas in Nevada from Feb. 26 to 28. Viben cordially invites all attendees to visit its booth. This year's Altitude Intimates Show, known for showcasing lingerie and adult novelty products, will be an ideal platform for Viben to exhibit what it has to offer. The brand is set to unveil its latest creations, promising a blend of advanced technology, user-friendly design, and exceptional quality. "We are thrilled to be a part of the Altitude Intimates Show," said Lulu Shwartzer, account manager of Viben. "It's a fantastic opportunity for us to connect with our customers and industry peers. We look forward to sharing our latest products, which have been designed with the modern consumer in mind, offering unparalleled pleasure experiences." Attendees visiting the Viben Booth can expect a hands-on experience with the new product line, demonstrations, and the chance to meet with the knowledgeable Viben team. For more information about Viben and its products, visit Viben Toys at vibentoys.com. Media inquiries and appointment requests for the show can be directed to Lulu Shwartzer at [email protected]. The Rock joined The Pat McAfee Show on Thursday to discuss the muddied Mania XL main event, and the reactions that have followed. The WrestleMania XL main event is well, theres still a lot of ambiguity in the air. As a massive press event is set to unfold later Thursday in Las Vegas, Dwayne The Rock Johnson decided to get himself involved in the mania again. Johnson appeared on Thursdays episode of The Pat McAfee Show. During that appearance, the Mania XL main event discussion came up. Theres been a clear direction involving WWE superstar Cody Rhodes, but after a shocking moment last Friday night on SmackDown, The Rock also appears involved in the thick of it. Hysteria ensued, and a swath of Cody fans surged to rally behind their beloved babyface. On Thursdays episode, The Rock publicly addressed the situation to McAfee in classic Rock fashion- or at least an attempt at it. Theres the other passionate fans of Cody. And theyre called the Cody Crybabies, Rock said. It was the Cody Crybabies. These are grown ass men. Yeah, Codys gotta finish his story! His story right now! Dad, you wanna go outside and play catch with me? Not now, Im upset! The wife comes in. Hey honey, do you wanna go have sex? Not now! Cody has to finish his story!' More from Rock: At the end of the day, youve got the Cody Crybabies, the Cody fans, and you have Cody himself. And theres a clear distinction between the three. But The Rock says this: Those Cody Crybabies, the ones for every ten tweets theyre shoving a Chicken McNugget in their mouth, for every 20 tweets, theyre shoving two McNuggets up their ass! The Rock says this. All you gotta do is know your role, shut your mouth, and enjoy the ride that The Rock is gonna take your candy asses on it. So hashtag that! Hashtag shut your b- asses up! Hashtag Cody Crybabies. The Rock calls out the Cody crybabies. Pat McAfee Show pic.twitter.com/a5GIyDX2JP Wrestle Ops (@WrestleOps) February 8, 2024 For the uninitiated, lets bring things up to speed: Back on January 27th, Cody Rhodes won the 2024 Mens Royal Rumble Match. Rhodes pointed at the WrestleMania sign during his celebration and turned his attention elsewhere. He then pointed at WWE Undisputed Universal Champion Roman Reigns, signifying that the long-awaited sequel to the WrestleMania 39 about everyone still talks about now was next in line. As we know it, things appeared to take a drastic change last week. Rhodes appeared on Monday Night Raw but couldnt mind his own business. World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins came down to the ring and goaded, and at times appeared to beg, Rhodes to challenge him instead. Cody said hed wait on it and tabled a pivotal segment between Rhodes and Reigns for last Friday nights episode of SmackDown. Well, that didnt quite happen either. Rhodes told Reigns he wanted to take everything away from WWEs Tribal Chief but not at WrestleMania, Rhodes added. That brought The Rock out. Since then, nothings quite been announced but has been heavily teased. The Rock and Roman Reigns stared each other down and appeared to signify that they were going to wrestle at WrestleMania XL instead. As Smackdown went off the air, the Press Event was advertised heavily in the lower third, as they slapped a conveniently timed graphic up while Rock and Reigns stared each other down. In an attempt to be fair, lets point out this: Over the weekend, Ava Raine, Johnsons daughter, became the subject of death threats and harassment from wrestling fans. Presumably, the ones who were upset that it appears like Rhodes isnt getting the title shot that his fans have believed he was going to. This is unjustified, wrong, and frankly, wild behavior that shouldnt be tolerated. Theres no reason or rationale behind sending threats to Raine, an on-screen character on WWE NXT, who has no affiliation to the situation other than her family connection. So, to that end, does The Rocks tirade make sense? Of course, it does. In targeting those people, the crybabies, as Rock referred to, he likely refers to the insane crowd. There are plenty of ways to catch these people, as theyre usually pretty broad and obvious. But there is an issue with this. While its fair to argue that Rock clearly distinguished who his onslaught was toward, its hard to think or trust that the fanbases are nuanced enough to distinguish themselves. Amid all the hysteria, its true that there were plenty of rational people out there who were irritated by this situation. It doesnt even make a lot of sense when you piece the entire angle together. Making things make sense is not only a priority in wrestling, it was also an issue for several years before. Everyone suddenly being okay with the proceedings doesnt really match the beat of the drum thats been beaten for many years. Part-timers online were often given the business. If someone argued that they were there for business, theyd get shot down, and rightly told that it doesnt matter to them, and that they want someone whos there all the time to be rewarded. Fast-forward to 2024, and the conversation seemingly has reversed for some reason. So, in other words, even while distinguishing the groups? It still kind of misses the mark. Pro wrestling relies heavily on connection and investment. Its not professional sports, and despite attempts to sportsify wrestling, it rarely ever works for a reason. The temperature and the tone have changed all around us. When people see business moves being made to shortchange other people, they dont usually just ride along with it. They rebel. They clash. And Cody fans, whether theyre crybabies or not, are just doing that. Supporters of this projected match between Rock and Reigns have cited WrestleMania as being the end-all spectacle, and that it involves two mega-stars, so they have to push their chips in to make money. The problem with that thought is that WrestleMania XL has been sold out for several months. So from that end, youre only playing for the margins. Is that worth it? Rocks material, for 2024, also came under fire. It was pretty weak to rely on jokes alluding to lonely wrestling fans. Codys fanbase has wanted something for nearly an entire year, and after much swearing up and down that the sequel would lead to the conclusion they deem right, its now up in the air. The ambiguity still exists. Its not like they never hinted at it, either. Mocking over investment or care in a storyline is kind of ridiculous, especially since its the entire point of it. Thereve been factions developed who have thought this over the week, and Rocks comments definitely dont put out the fire. Theres plenty of merit to being disappointed that something that appeared promised was pulled under the rug from him, and Rhodes going with the other Option might not even stand a prayer unfortunately. Not to mention: Lets say the company proceeds with Rock-Roman. The Rock cut a promo on the fanbase of the biggest babyface in the company. Is that supposed to help things? The truth is that this situation never really needed to happen. The Rock joined the TKO Board of Directors and seemingly weaved his way into the discussion. And the WrestleMania main event picture. Well likely know, one way or another, how it will all unfold Thursday night. But all the ambiguity continues to be so very needless. CEMEX UK tackles shipping emissions 09 February 2024 Work will begin in April this year on a new demonstrator of a smart shore power system at CEMEXs wharf in Shoreham, UK. Working in partnership with University of Warwick and advanced system integrator, iconsys, CEMEX is developing an intelligently-managed shore power system demonstrator, specifically tailored to understand fluctuations in electricity demand of self-discharging commercial vessels. The UK Department of Transport has awarded the project a grant of nearly GBP1.7m (US$2.15m) with a view to the system being able to eliminate the operation of onboard diesel engines while ships are discharging marine aggregates. The project also aligns with Shoreham Ports wider sustainability goals and efforts to create a credible and measurable Local Industrial Decarbonisation Plan. Laurence Dagley, operational excellence and business development director for CEMEX west Europe materials, commented, Our initial feasibility study for this shore power system identified an opportunity to save a significant amount of CO 2 during each dredger discharge, while also improving local air quality at the port itself. We are therefore pleased to have received this funding to progress to the next stage of the project and undertake on-site demonstration. The system will incorporate battery energy storage and solar photovoltaic energy generation, plus integrated hardware-in-the-loop simulation to both virtually expand the capability of the system and validate modelling software predictions. A period of 12 months has been allowed for installation and demonstration of the system at Shoreham and for the results to be shared with stakeholders from industry and the Department of Transport. Published under Ecocem's ACT technology obtains ETA 09 February 2024 Ecocems ACT technology has obtained an ETA (European Technical Assessment) from EOTA (European Organisation for Technical Assessment) for a new eco-efficient cement. This independent assessment is a critical step towards CE marking and will enable the introduction of this new low-carbon cement throughout Europe. "The ETA provides Ecocem with a route to full commercialisation for its ACT technology by 2026 and creates the opportunity for the cement and concrete industries to do the same," said Ecocem's statement. "There is also the potential to scale globally since ETAs are recognised and highly respected internationally." Ecocem has developed its ACT technology over the last decade resulting in a scalable, sustainable, low-carbon cement. Currently trials are already demonstrating the carbon reduction possible using ACT in effect, a 70 per cent reduction in CO 2 compared with the average European cement blend, claims Ecocem. The trials have also demonstrated strong performance on key criteria, including strength, durability and concrete workability. Ecocem plans to supply the first ACT cement to customers in its European markets in the course of 2024, with full commercialisation by 2026. Commenting on this breakthrough, Donal ORiain, founder and MD of Ecocem, said: "ACT technology provides the cement industry with a unique opportunity to halve emissions within the decade and become the first industrial sector to achieve a 1.5C decarbonisation trajectory." Christian Clergue, European standards manager at Ecocem, added: "Ecocem is partnering with key organisations in the cement and construction industry, including Groupe CB, Point P and Cemex France, to trial and develop the technology and ensure a continuous supply of materials." To accelerate ACT's delivery, Ecocem is scaling up activity at established production facilities in The Netherlands, Ireland and France, where it will build a new mill to grind limestone at its Dunkirk plant in partnership with CB Green. In the US the company is in the later stages of permitting for the construction of a plant on the West Coast. Published under Hamilton County Sheriff's Office deputies have been involved in a deputy involved shooting at the Zaxbys at 4815 Highway 58. No deputies were injured in the incident. One male suspect was injured in the incident. Police said shortly after the shooting that motorists should avoid this area. Police said preliminary information indicates that members of the Hamilton County Sheriffs Office were conducting an enforcement operation in the 4800 block of Highway 58. During the operation, deputies ordered a man from his vehicle in an attempt to take him into custody. Initial reports indicate that the driver refused to comply with officers commands and attempted to flee, striking at least one deputy with his vehicle, as well as three unoccupied civilian vehicles. During that attempt to flee, two deputies discharged their firearms, striking the man. He was transported to an area hospital for treatment. One deputy was transported to a local hospital for precautionary treatment. Troopers with the Tennessee Highway Patrol responded to work the accident scene involving the civilian vehicles. At the direction of District Attorney, Coty Wamp, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation will be conducted an investigation into this incident. Special counsel, Robert Hur, announced no charges against Joe Biden for mishandling classified documents. The principal reason: Bidens memory was hazy and poor and having severe limitations. It noted Biden couldnt recall defining milestones in his own life (ABC 2/8/24). Hur went on to say, Biden is a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory (Forbes 2/8/24). Is this why Joe twice claimed recently to have had conversations with men deceased for years? Does this conclusion confirm why in polls like an NBC poll over 75 percent have concerns over Bidens mental fitness to serve four more years as president? For months Bidens team and supporters spun tales about his energy and sharpness (The Corner, J Geraghty 2/16/23). Axios reported, as expected, Bidens counsel does not believe the reports treatment of President Bidens memory is accurate or appropriate (2/8/24). Are we supposed to accept he gets a pass on being charged with mishandling classified materials yet his counsel, mindful Biden is both president and candidate for re-election, contends the report is wrong about Joes mental acuity? Couple all of this with the contention some (Hillary and Joe) get a pass, but Trump is prosecuted for criminal acts and the contention of a two-tiered justice system favoring Democrats grows ever stronger with voters. Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-MD, impeachment manager, member of the Jan. 6 committee and outspoken defender of Hunter Biden (The Hill 11/28/23) introduced a resolution in Congress in 2021 calling for Vice President Pence to invoke the 25th Amendment to remove Trump from office on the grounds Trump demonstrated the inability to discharge the most basic and fundamental powers and duties of office (NPR 1/13/24). So where are calls for the 25th Amendment when an official document says a sitting president having severe limitations to be prosecuted? How can a man be too senile to be charged but just dandy to be president and run for four more years? Who is running the country? This report confirms there is a two-tier system of justice favoring Democrats but it reveals our nation is in deep trouble on many levels with Joe Biden wandering the White House. Ralph Miller Gov. Lee unveils legislative priorities, budget in State of the State address Tennessee is strong, resilient and ready for the future Gov. Bill Lee on Monday delivered his sixth State of the State address during a joint session of the General Assembly. During his speech in the House chamber, Lee highlighted his legislative priorities for 2024 along with a proposed $52.6 billion budget for the upcoming fiscal year that enhances education, strengthens public safety, cuts taxes and supports families across Tennessee. The governors proposed budget continued to make key investments in strategic areas like education with more than $261 million in new funding for K-12 public schools, including teacher pay increases. Education remains a top priority this year. Lee underscored his focus on improving the states public schools, while also ensuring parents have the freedom to make education decisions specific to their childs needs. He expressed his intentions to provide school choice for every Tennessee family through his Education Freedom Scholarship Act proposal. Lee also noted that $1.8 billion in new state dollars have been invested in public education during the last five years. Last year, the General Assembly approved the largest pay increase for teachers in state history and committed to making Tennessee one of the top 10 states for highest teacher salaries by 2026. We have placed an unprecedented focus on public education, and I intend to continue that every year, Lee said. We can give parents choice and support public schools at the same time. Youll hear me say that over and over again these two ideas are not in conflict. Other initiatives include a $410 million franchise tax cut to support Tennessees economy, expanding rural health care access and the creation of four new state parks. Lee credited the General Assemblys unwavering commitment to fiscal responsibility as the reason for the states firm financial foundation. Following several years of extraordinary revenue growth, revenues are stabilizing. Good fiscal governance has well-positioned Tennessee to continue its record of fiscal responsibility with a balanced budget, healthy savings, and tax cuts. Tennessees fiscal management approach has set the standard for how states across the country should operate, and families and businesses nationwide have taken note, Lee said. Lee added that Tennessees economy is very strong and built to withstand even the pressure of our countrys uncertain economic future. He also touted the states AAA bond rating, which it has held for nine consecutive years. Over the past five years, Tennessee has been ranked as the fastest-growing economy of all 50 states, the number one state for fiscal stability, a top state for businesses, the second lowest-taxed state per capita and the lowest debt state in America, Lee said. Any state would envy the position that weve been in. The members of the Tennessee General Assembly all of you here tonight as well as your predecessors are the ones to thank because of your unwavering commitment to keeping our state in a strong financial position, by balancing our budget, maintaining a healthy savings account and cuttings taxes for Tennesseans year after year. Members of the General Assembly will review Lees proposed budget in the coming weeks and make their own recommendations. Notable highlights from the proposed 2024-25 budget include: Education $261 million for TISA formula growth, teacher pay raises $141.5 million to establish Education Freedom Scholarships $30 million for summer learning programs $3.2 million for AP Access for All $2.5 million to strengthen students reading and phonics skills Strong and healthy families $208 million for apprenticeships and skilled training, greater access to specialty care and telemedicine, improved career pathways, hospital and physician practice grants, and a new Center of Excellence to expand rural health support $100 million over five years for community mental health centers and behavioral health hospitals, expanding substance abuse disorder treatment, intensive in-home supports, primary care training, early childhood training $26.7 million investment in services for Tennesseans with disabilities Public safety $17 million for an additional 60 State Troopers and support staff $8 million to expand the school-based behavioral health liaison program $750,000 to fund Houses of Worship Security Grants Funding for a National Guard recruitment incentive package Conservation $63 million to create four new Tennessee State Parks $20 million to expand blueway trail access to state waterways and invest in dozens of state lakes $20 million to improve water quality at rivers, lakes and streams statewide $25 million to establish the Farmland Conservation Fund $5 million to protect and enhance scenic beauty along major highways $3 million Access 2030 to make Tennessee State Parks accessible to those with disabilities Tax cuts $410 million annual franchise tax cut $20 million additional Rainy-Day Fund investment To read a transcript of Lees State of the State address visit here. A copy of the proposed 2024-25 budget can be found here. House unanimously passes bill changing fire alarm protocols The House on Thursday voted unanimously to pass legislation requiring schools to determine the cause of a fire alarm before allowing children to leave their classrooms. House Bill 1644 is among several safety proposals reintroduced from the special session in August. The bill was filed by House Majority leader William Lamberth, R-Portland, in response to the Covenant School shooting in Nashville on March 27. One of the six victims, William Kinney, 9, was leading his third-grade classmates to safety as line leader when he was fatally shot by a former student of the school. Smoke from the shooters weapon triggered the schools fire alarm, but the victims were unaware there was an active shooter in the school when they heard the alarm. Kinney was the first to encounter the shooter in the hallway of the school. This is one small step, but a very important one for both the families at Covenant, for (Tennessee), and I was glad to see it get unanimous support, Lamberth said on Thursday. This is one of a number of bills we pass this year that will make Tennessee safer tomorrow than it is today. The bill is expected to be considered in the Senate chamber in the coming weeks. Legislation to remove political flags from classrooms advances A Republican bill to ensure students in Tennessee are not indoctrinated by political flags in the classroom advanced out of the K-12 Subcommittee this week. House Bill 1605, sponsored by State Rep. Gino Bulso, R-Brentwood, would prohibit certain flags from being displayed in public schools. What this (legislation) does is make it crystal clear that both flags, and images of flags that are used in a way to try to teach students a particular set of values that may or may not correspond to the values that theyre learning at home, are not going to be allowed, Bulso said. The bill, as amended, would allow for multiple flags with local, state, national, world and historical significance to be displayed at schools. In addition to the Tennessee and United States flags, other flags that would be allowed include military flags, government flags, foreign country flags and flags used temporarily for course curriculums. House Bill 1605 would also allow parents to take civil action against a school if it refuses to act within 10 days of receiving a written notice regarding a potential violation of the law. The bill is scheduled to be heard in the Education Administration Committee on Feb. 14. Bill would increase punishment for intentionally blocking roads Republicans have filed legislation aimed at preventing roadways from being illegally blocked by protesters in Tennessee. House Bill 2031, sponsored by State Rep. Jody Barrett, R-Dickson, would increase the penalty for intentionally obstructing roadways or other areas used for transportation from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class D felony. The legislation would also allow anyone who suffered injury or loss as a result of the crime to seek compensatory damages through legal action. Blocking highways and bridges for a protest without obtaining the necessary approval beforehand creates an extremely dangerous situation for both participants and the general public, Barrett said. Protests have their time and place, but this type of behavior is unacceptable and must have more severe consequences. A Class D felony is punishable by a minimum of two years in prison and a maximum fine of $5,000. If approved, House Bill 2031 would take effect July 1. House passes bill requiring judges to prioritize safety when setting bonds House Republicans this week passed legislation prioritizing the safety of communities when pretrial decisions and bail determinations are made for a defendant. Present law requires bail to be set as low as the court determines is necessary to reasonably assure a defendant's appearance in court. House Bill 1642, sponsored by House Majority Leader William Lamberth, R-Portland, does not do away with other mitigating bond factors a judge must consider when determining bond, but simply says the communitys safety must come first. Other factors, such as the nature of the offense, apparent probability of conviction, and likelihood of appearing for their court date, would still be considered. The bill passed with strong bipartisan support. The Senate chamber is expected to take up the companion version of the bill in the coming weeks. 4 new state parks included in Gov. Lees proposed budget Gov. Bill Lee has included funding to create four new state parks in Tennessee as part of his proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year. The proposal would cost $63 million and would be the first step towards Lees goal of funding eight new state parks by the time he leaves office. Last year, we created a new conservation strategy to preserve the state for generations to come, but theres more work to do, Lee said Monday during his sixth annual State of the State address. Weve continually made investments in our state parks, which are the cornerstone of this conservation effort. This years proposed budget will take it to the next level The proposed new state parks include: Cardwell Mountain (Warren County): Cardwell Mountain is a local landmark in McMinnville. The 530-acre property includes a Native American earthen monument, rock art site and archaeological sites. It also contains a unique upland plateau and mountainous landscape that is bounded by the Collins River. The property was acquired in 2021 and is not currently open to the public. The budget includes funding for a visitors center and other amenities. (Warren County): Cardwell Mountain is a local landmark in McMinnville. The 530-acre property includes a Native American earthen monument, rock art site and archaeological sites. It also contains a unique upland plateau and mountainous landscape that is bounded by the Collins River. The property was acquired in 2021 and is not currently open to the public. The budget includes funding for a visitors center and other amenities. Fort Southwest Point (Roane County): Currently managed by the city of Kingston, Fort Southwest Point was garrisoned by veterans of the American Revolution. The site is included on the National Register of Historic Places, and funding would be used for planning and staffing for the park. (Roane County): Currently managed by the city of Kingston, Fort Southwest Point was garrisoned by veterans of the American Revolution. The site is included on the National Register of Historic Places, and funding would be used for planning and staffing for the park. Head of the Crow (Franklin County): The park would include 4,258 acres that are currently managed as part of the South Cumberland State Park and contain the headwaters for Crow Creek. The property would join four state natural areas and provide better outdoor recreational opportunities in the area. The budget includes funding for infrastructure, a visitors center and other amenities. (Franklin County): The park would include 4,258 acres that are currently managed as part of the South Cumberland State Park and contain the headwaters for Crow Creek. The property would join four state natural areas and provide better outdoor recreational opportunities in the area. The budget includes funding for infrastructure, a visitors center and other amenities. Ocoee River and Hiwassee Scenic River state parks (Polk County): Currently managed together, the proposed budget would split the Hiwassee Scenic River and Ocoee River into separate state parks. Funding would be used for campground upgrades at Hiwassee and additional staffing to allow recreational and natural resources to be managed independently. The General Assembly last year approved funding to create four new state parks Devils Backbone State Park in Lewis County, Middle Fork Bottoms State Park in Madison County, North Chickamauga Creek Gorge State Park in Hamilton and Sequatchie counties, and Scotts Gulf Wilderness State Park in White County. Every Tennessean lives within an hour of at least one state park. Additional information about what each park offers can be found online at www.tnstateparks.com. Bill would help counties affected by natural disasters A proposed program to help Tennessee communities recover from natural disasters advanced out of the House Departments and Agencies Subcommittee this week. House Bill 1795, sponsored by State Rep. Kip Capley, R-Summertown, would establish the Natural Disaster Relief Program to assist counties affected by a natural disaster. Grant funding could be used for infrastructure repairs, debris removal and life-saving emergency measures. We had a tornado that affected many, many Tennesseans last year and as a state, I think were all trying to be proactive in finding ways where we can help the rural areas in the counties that maybe are not as fortunate, Capley said Wednesday. In order to qualify for grant funding through the program, a county must have experienced a natural disaster that resulted in damages that did not qualify for federal relief. The county must also be under a state of emergency as well. The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency would evaluate grant applications and distribute funding up to $250,000 per county, per year. House Bill 1795 is scheduled to be heard in the State Government Committee on Feb. 14. Legislation aimed at deterring juvenile crime Republicans have introduced legislation aimed at curbing a disturbing increase in violent crimes committed by juveniles in Tennessee. House Bill 2126, filed by State Rep. Rusty Grills, R-Newbern, would allow local district attorneys and judges to determine if a juvenile age 15 and older should be transferred to adult criminal court when they are charged with committing or attempting to commit organized retail crime or theft of a firearm. The legislation addresses a dangerous trend in which minors are being recruited by adults to steal or break into businesses, homes or cars because there are fewer consequences for their actions. This bill provides district attorneys and law enforcement with additional tools to fight gang violence, Grills said. Serious crimes should have serious consequences. Treating juveniles as adults in these cases acknowledges the severity of these crimes and will ensure victims rights are upheld. Our goal is to deter and redirect at-risk young people so they do not become repeat violent offenders in the future. Existing state law already allows courts to transfer a juvenile to adult court for certain crimes, including first-degree murder, second-degree murder, rape, aggravated rape, rape of a child, aggravated rape of a child, aggravated robbery, especially aggravated robbery, aggravated burglary, especially aggravated burglary, kidnapping, commission of an act of terrorism, and carjacking. There were 13,700 juveniles arrested statewide for various crimes in 2022, according to the most recent data from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. Of those arrests, 1,450 involved some form of theft or stolen property offenses while 424 were for weapons law violations. Tennessee Blue Book honors first responders Secretary of State Tre Hargett recently released the latest Tennessee Blue Book. The 2023-24 edition is dedicated to Tennessees courageous first responders. The Volunteer State is home to more than 50,000 law enforcement, firefighters, and emergency medical services professionals who selflessly aid citizens in dire circumstances every day. The Tennessee Blue Book, published every two years, is the definitive manual on Tennessee state government, with detailed information about all three branches of government, including biographies of all members of the Tennessee General Assembly. The Blue Book contains information on the federal government, Tennessee history, election statistics, and more. The 2023-24 Blue Book is available free of charge to all Tennessee residents. To request a copy, citizens should contact their representative in the General Assembly. They can also soon place an order with the Secretary of States Division of Publications online at sos.tn.gov/bluebook-request. Briefly Election integrity: House Bill 1897, sponsored by State Rep. Tim Rudd, R-Murfreesboro, would not allow an individual to serve as an administrator of elections in Tennessee while also qualifying as a candidate for public office. The legislation would also require an administrator of elections to temporarily step down from their position at least 30 days prior to an election if an immediate family member was on the ballot in the county they serve. House Bill 1897 is scheduled to be heard in the Local Government Committee on Feb. 13. Lifetime orders of protection: The House of Representatives on Thursday passed House Bill 1645, which will further strengthen existing legislation passed by the General Assembly in 2021 that allowed victims of violent crime to petition a court for a lifetime order of protection. House Bill 1645 extends lifetime protection for victims of aggravated stalking. The law prohibits convicted offenders from communicating with their victims for life. Election day school closures: House Bill 1649, introduced by State Rep. Jake McCalmon, R-Franklin, would require public schools to close for instruction if the building was being used as a polling place for a presidential primary election. Schools used as polling locations for the November general election are already required to close for instruction. Protecting children from sexual abuse: House Bill 701, introduced by State Rep. Clay Doggett, R-Pulaski, would add continuous sexual abuse of a child to the list of offenses that require a defendant to have community supervision for life. In Tennessee, people convicted of continuous sexual abuse of a child are required to serve their entire term, which averages nearly 24 years. Blue-light emergency phones: House Bill 1874, introduced by State Rep. John Crawford, R-Bristol/Kingsport, would require all blue-light emergency telephone calls to be recorded. Blue-light phones are located on college campuses across the country and connect students to law enforcement or campus public safety departments in case of an emergency. Recordings of calls could help officials better respond to emergencies. Family Life Curriculum: House Bill 996, sponsored by State Rep. Charlie Baum, R-Murfreesboro, would prohibit topics related to sexual activity from being taught to students in kindergarten through fifth grade as part of a family life curriculum. Tennessees K-5 family life curriculum standards do not currently include information about sexual activity, and this legislation will ensure that continues. House Bill 996 is scheduled to be heard on the House floor Feb. 12. Waterfowl hunting for veterans, active duty military: House Bill 1665, introduced by State Rep. Todd Warner, R-Chapel Hill, would establish two exclusive days for veterans and active military personnel to hunt waterfowl at no cost. More than 440,000 veterans and active military personnel would be eligible to hunt under the proposal. Supreme Court appointee: Gov. Bill Lee has announced the appointment of Mary L. Wagner to the Tennessee Supreme Court. Wagner is currently a circuit court judge for the 30th Judicial District, which covers Shelby County. She previously served as an associate at Rice, Amundsen & Caperton, PLLC and taught as an adjunct professor at The University of Memphis School of Law. Wagner holds a bachelors degree from the University of Colorado at Boulder and J.D. from the University of Memphis School of Law. She will fill a vacancy created by the retirement of Justice Roger A. Page, effective Aug. 31. Wagners appointment is subject to confirmation by the General Assembly. Ag Day: The 2024 Tennessee Ag Day on the Hill will take place Tuesday, March 19 at the Beth Harwell Plaza at the State Capitol in Nashville. The annual event will feature farm animals, a legislative versus executive branch competition and a biscuit breakfast. Daniela Elser believes the press should refrain from applauding Prince William for doing his job as a parent while his wife continues to recover A royal expert took issue with how the British press appeared to applaud Prince William for devoting an unspecified amount of time to assist in his wife Kate Middletons recovery from abdominal surgery while taking care of their three children. This parenting double standard infuriated Daniela Elser, who believes this type of recognition is outdated in a progressive royal family. Prince Williams parenting double standard angers a royal expert Royal expert Daniela Elser wrote an essay for News.com.au calling out the double standard of Prince William being applauded for having to tend to his children. She shared her point of view on the topic. Elser said, Get the man a mug, a sash, a plaque. Because if one line is being pushed in London, the prince is nothing short of a world-beating, record-breaking, one-for-the-history-books father while his wife Kate the Princess of Wales is convalescing. She continued, William, the world has been informed, has cleared his diary to be doting dad par excellence to their three young kids, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. Some parts of the British press have been busy getting themselves in an overwrought flap as they salute the arrival of The Wunder Pa, William. However, Williams portrayal in the press appeared to upset Elser. She believes applauding William for doing his job as a parent is a bit over the top. If this situation was reversed and it was him who had had surgery and was now out for the royal working count, no one would be wasting any platitudes on Kate for bravely doing single mum duty, she concluded. We wouldnt be seeing lengthy, gushing pieces about how marvelous she was for putting her kids before the day job. Its a double standard that sticks in my craw. Praising Prince William for being an involved parent is circa 1962 Prince William, Kate Middleton, Prince George, Prince Louis, and Princess Charlotte in April 2023 | Yui Mok WPA Pool/Getty Images Daniela Elser found the parenting double standard for the Prince of Wales quite outdated. She was stunned the press would portray the future king of the United Kingdom in such a manner. The royal family continues progressing into the future. Therefore, Elser believes that applauding William for being a father to sons Prince George and Prince Louis and daughter Princess Charlotte is quite archaic. She writes, The underlying message is that we, the public, are meant to coo and think, what a top bloke. What a lovely man. Putting his three young children before that away day to Stoke-on-Trent to open a new rugger ground or him hosting an investiture to recognize regional charity fundraisers. Elser insists portraying William in such a manner feels like something from circa 1962. She added, Back when a man would be called a Big Jessie for knowing how to change a nappy. By normal standards, William isnt doing anything that deserves to be called out and hailed. As if hes single-handedly raising the fatherhood bar. Kate Middleton regularly holds down the family fort while Prince William travels Throughout their marriage, Kate Middleton typically held down the family fort while Prince William traveled on behalf of the crown. When the couple travel together, they have a staff which looks after their three children. However, Daniela Elser noted that in 2023, William made three trips overseas: to Poland, Singapore, and New York City. This left Kate Middleton to handle parenting duties solo. Elser asked, Where was her medal? Where were the stories eagerly painting her as some sort of super-ma? But, the royal expert also believes William is trying to break from the example set by his father, King Charles. He typically put royal duties ahead of his sons. Kate Middleton continues to heal from abdominal surgery at home. Prince William has returned to official royal duties after taking time off during his wifes initial recovery. Manufacturing a laboratory for the holy Zamzam water from Mecca in Saudi Arabia: What almost sounds like the title of a fairytale story is becoming reality for Kottermann, based in Hanigsen, Lower Saxony. Commissioned in January 2024, the new laboratory facilities in Mecca are to be completed by May of this year. The special contract to build an advanced laboratory infrastructure is being carried out together with the local dealer Gulf Bioanalytical. The quality of the holy water will be tested here to the highest standards. "We are honoured to contribute to the construction of such an important laboratory with our laboratory equipment," says Managing Director Kazim Doyuran, describing Kottermann's delight at having been chosen for the project. The beaver may be small, but it is also tough. Once prized for its pelt by the Europeans, the animals were hunted almost to extinction. However, their populations managed to bounce back, showing incredible endurance in the face of threats. Beavers are also known for their industrious spirit, building durable dams that last for centuries and have the ability to change the American landscape. This was made evident through a map from 1868, which was created by Lewis H. Morgan, a pioneering American anthropologist who also worked as a railroad lawyer. In the 1860s, he arrived in Michigans Upper Peninsula to direct the construction of a new railway. When he came across a beaver district, he was amazed. He spent several years studying the beavers in the area now known as Ishpeming and published a book in 1868 called The American Beaver and His Works. The book included a map that portrayed a roughly 50-square-mile plot of land crisscrossed with rail lines and dotted with settlements, mines, streams and the 64 beaver dams and ponds that Morgan studied. In 2018, experts took a look at Morgans map and realized that most of the beaver dams he had recorded were still standing. An ecologist named Carol Johnston was curious to see how the dams fared approximately 150 years later as the area opened up to human development. The study would also provide an opportunity to learn more about the long-term resilience of beaver populations and the structures they build. Johnston used aerial photographs to piece together a modern version of Morgans map. She found evidence that about 72 percent of the dams and ponds that Morgan documented were still intact. At least one pond on Johnstons map was larger than Morgans, suggesting that it had been expanded by beavers over time. Some sites contained dams that seemed abandoned, but the habitats were still visible. Only 18 sites from Morgans map could not be found today. Some may have been covered by forest growth, while others were probably destroyed by human activity. Even so, Johnston is impressed with the strength and durability of beaver dams. Sign up for Chip Chicks newsletter and get stories like this delivered to your inbox. Tucker Carlson is reviving American interest in Ukraine. Approaching two years since the Russian invasion on February 24, 2022, the Slavic conflict has been eclipsed by the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza in the forefront of US attention. Many Americans, however sympathetic they remain, have tired of foreign wars in lieu of pressing domestic issues at home. Others, however, see continued US support for Ukraine as a low-cost check on Russian imperial ambitions. Carlson, the controversial pundit, is presenting the views of Vladimir Putin. While many American media outlets have requested an interview with the Russian president, Carlson was granted the interview as his perspective is in no way pro-Russian, it is not pro-Ukrainian, stated the Kremlin spokesman. It is pro-American, but at least it contrasts with the position of the traditional Anglo-Saxon media. Carlson said it would allow viewers to see the truth obscured by Western reporting. Christianity Today invited Ukrainian evangelical leaders to comment on any religious remarks conveyed. Seven stated they had no intention to watch what one called a propagandist in conversation with the killer of my people. Putin gave them little to work with during the two-hour interview. There was nothing new in this interview, said Valentin Siniy, rector of the Kherson-based Tavriski Christian Institute. It looks like nothing more than an attempt to play on the feelings of religious freedom in the West. But he did, Siniy emphasized, again put forward his oft-repeated Russki Mir (Russian World) ideology. Putin described the coming of Christianity to Eastern Europe within a nearly uninterrupted half hour answer detailing Russian history, during which he called Ukraine an artificial state. Pressed how as a professing Christian he could order violence, Putin spoke only of Russias moral values. And probing the head of states personal faith, Carlson asked Putin if he saw God at work in the world. No, to be honest, the Russian president replied, after a pause. I dont think so. CT has provided extensive coverage of the Russia-Ukraine war, including descriptions of the polarized American public, Russian-American pastors combating propaganda, and advice for interpreting misinformation no matter the source. To understand any conflict requires knowledge of its background. CT has published articles about how Christianity came to Ukraine and Russia, the 160-year spiritual history behind todays divide, and why Ukraine calls upon Michael the archangel. Concerning more contemporary pre-war history, CT covered Ukrainian politics and the efforts of evangelicals to win influence, in addition to the tomos of autocephaly that gave ecclesial independence to one-half of Ukraines Orthodox church. Article continues below But while Ukrainian sources declined to engage Carlsons effort to understand the war through the rhetoric of Putin, they have informed most of CTs ongoing coverage. As Russia marshaled troops on the border, two articles provided Ukrainian evangelical perspective while waiting in limbo. And after the invasion, two more described the reaction of Christian leaders to their new wartime reality. As the previous Mennonite-inspired pacifism of Ukraine was pushed aside in defense of the homeland, reporting also provided the response of the foreign missionary community. Subsequent articles described ways in which concerned Christians can help. An immediate need was with the millions of refugees dispersed around the world. CTs June 2022 cover story featured this issue, with other reporting zooming in on the evangelical response in Moldova, among believing Roma minority communities, and among Slavic churches in the US. Coverage was also given to the controversial reception Ukrainian refugees received in Russia. One of Carlsons objectives is to present Americans with Russian perspective. CT has consistently aimed to do similarly through the Russian evangelical church. While many sources requested to shield their identity to avoid prosecution under Russian lawsuch as in making a theological case for peaceone Russian leader offered Ukrainians a public apology. But the need for security was real. One Russian pastor spoke out against the war and was forced from his church. A prominent Russian Baptist leader fled into exile prior to his arrest. Early reports about hundreds of Russian clerics opposing the invasion further developed into an article about overall Russian Christian opinion of the special military operation. CT then asked five European evangelical leaders whether Russia needed more Bonhoeffers. Europe was not the only region impacted by the war, even as evangelicals in Russian-allied Belarus feared greater isolation. Christian leaders debated if the welcome extended to Ukrainians signaled racism toward rejected Syrians and other Muslims. Taiwanese wondered that if Russia was not pushed back, China might similarly invade them. Israel dealt with an influx of Jews from both Russia and Ukraine, while a seminary in Estonia did its best to reconcile believers. Article continues below But primary CT coverage followed the wartime prayers and favored verses of Ukraines evangelical community, the impact of destruction upon seminaries and churchesfirst tallied at 500 religious sites, then updated last month to 630 sitesand the ministry they continued nonetheless. As evangelical women and seminarians pleaded for help, the toll of war was described in Irpin, Bucha, and Kherson. Image: Ukraine Institute for Religious Freedom And as CTs February 2023 cover story featured how evangelical leaders were ready to meet God at any moment, a photo essay provided a window into the life of frontline chaplains. Service continued in Ukrainian Christian schooling, prison ministryincluding to Russian POWsand radio outreach, despite restrictions on use of the Russian language. Such restrictions have often been highlighted by commentators like Carlson, with particular emphasis of those recently enacted and threatened against the Moscow-linked Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC). CT covered the UOCs initial efforts to signal its independence from Russia, and the local reactions as Ukraine threatened and then recently passed a law that allegedly would ban the historic denomination altogether. Amid the controversy, Ukraine switched its Christmas celebration from the traditional Orthodox date of January 7 to the Western date of December 25. A holiday-themed article described the Ukrainian origin of Carol of the Bells, while an Easter article featured the Ukrainian Pysanky eggs. But while most of CTs reporting aims to reflect nuance in its presentation of the mutual recriminations, coverage has also sought to faithfully convey evangelical perspectives, as offered in Christmas Epiphanies from the Ruins of Ukraine. God may have been minimally invoked during the Carlson-Putin interview. But even as Ukrainian evangelicals struggle to make sense of their national ordeal, they keep God at the forefront (as seen in Ukraines top 10 Bible verses last year). One emphasized after the interview released late Thursday that he is praying for victory. I relate to the Psalmists prayers for delivery from the evil deeds of evil men, and many biblical examples give me hope, said Maxym Oliferovski, a Mennonite Brethren pastor and project leader for Multiply Ukraine. But even if he doesnt I will continue to praise him, for God is good and sovereign. You can also join the 10,600 readers who follow CT on Telegram: Editors note: CT offers select articles translated into Ukrainian and Russian You can also join the 10,600 readers who follow CT on Telegram: @ctmagazine (also available in Russian and Chinese ). [ This article is also available in and . ] Senator Jim Lankford didnt sign up to lead the charge on one of the most contentious issues before Congress. But after Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell appointed him to develop a deal to address the migrant crisisa contingency for the House passing emergency aid to Ukraine and Israelthe Oklahoma Republican got to work. He spent four months meeting with Democrat Sen. Chris Murphy and Independent Sen. Kyrsten Sinema to put together a deal. Those careful efforts came crashing down this week when his own party and former president Donald Trump dismissed the package. The sound bites were harsh: a very bad bill, even worse than we expected, worse than bad negotiation, and betrayal. While his role as the lead Republican negotiator represents one of his biggest moments in the political spotlight, evangelicals may recognize Lankford. The 55-year-old conservative is a churchgoing Baptist, a former pastor, and an outspoken advocate for religious freedom. Hes known for putting faith and service before political grandstanding. Some hoped hed be successful at negotiating a deal on an issue thats becoming a bigger concern for evangelicals, most of whom want to see improved border security and a path to citizenship for immigrants. Lankford is just a really good man. Hes solid. Hes a devoted Christian, said Dan Darling, director of the Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has a real sense of calling. I think he literally felt like he was going to Washington to try and do what he can to solve problems. The National Association of Evangelicals came out in support of the bill before the failed vote. In a statement on Monday, the association encouraged lawmakers to carefully study the Lankford-Murphy-Sinema text. While some aspects of the bill raise concerns, and there are some missing pieces (notably a permanent solution for Dreamers), that is not a reason to dismiss the proposal out of hand. As people of faith we pray for all our leaders as they fulfill their God-given responsibilities, the statement continued. The nation is watching. Prior to Lankfords entrance to public office, the 55-year-old Oklahoman served for two decades as a youth minister. He felt called into ministry while he was still in high school. He spent the better part of 20 years working at the youth program at Falls Creek, a Christian youth camp. His foray into politics came when he read that his local congresswoman was leaving office. He told the Christian Broadcasting Network, Its as if it jumped off the page and I heard God say, Thats what I want you to do. He was elected to the House in 2011 and to the Senate in 2015. His most recent reelection was in 2022. He rolls up his sleeves, Warren Cole Smith, author and president of the evangelical watchdog organization MinistryWatch, told CT. He understands that if you want to get something done, you are going to have to convince people who dont agree with you. Smith, who has interviewed Lankford a few times over the years, said Lankford tends to avoid a lot of the bombastic, God-and-country rhetoric that weve since become all too familiar with among, you know, sort of a populist wing of the Republican Party. And I was impressed by that. This was a guy that was going to do his best to live according to Christian principles. But he was not going to be a showboat or be pretentious. In the pulpit, he was never the fire-and-brimstone type. In Washington too, hes avoided rhetorical bomb-throwing, instead earning a reputation as a workhorse that has gained respect from his colleagues across the aisle as well. We agree on almost exactly nothing. [Lankfords] a very conservative man, Sen. Chris Coons, a Delaware Democrat, told CT. But hes a really good guy. Coons chairs the Senate Ethics Committee, of which Lankford is the highest-ranking Republican. The two served as honorary co-chairs of the National Prayer Breakfast in 2019 (Coons is Presbyterian). it's gotta be disappointing to put in this much work, and to now have been [censured] by the Oklahoma Republican Party, Coons added. This place doesn't work without compromise and consensus. And there are demonstrably members now who only want to blow things up. And who don't really want a result on anything. But congeniality hasnt inculcated Lankford from being singed by the nations increasingly heated partisan politics. On Wednesday, when a procedural vote on the border deal came up, Lankford said in a floor speech that a well-known right-wing commentator told him, If you try to move a bill that solves the border crisis during this presidential year, I will do whatever I can to destroy you, because I do not want you to solve this during the presidential election. Senators rejected the measure by a 49 to 50 vote. The chambers rule requires 60 votes for overcoming a filibuster. And the conservative commentator who threatened to try and destroy him? Lankford refused to name names but said that the person has been faithful to their promise and have done everything they can to destroy me in the past several weeks. The immigration issue has been a political hang-up for a long time: laws havent been updated in almost 40 years, leaving presidents to rely on executive orders to wrangle surges at the southern border; an overburdened immigration court system; burgeoning waitlists of asylum claims; and the unresolved question of how to handle millions of undocumented immigrants. Previous bipartisan attempts at congressional action have crumbled, often due to political pressure. In the recent attempt, the immigration-related provisions were more of a border crackdown than a comprehensive reform. The text didnt include a pathway to citizenship for immigrants in the country illegally. Previously, Democrats had refused to consider legislation that didnt address protections for recipients of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policy, also known as Dreamers. Among other provisions, the legislation would have put a higher bar in place for migrants to request asylum and would have sped up the deportation process for migrants who dont qualify. It also would have required adjudications on asylum cases to be issued within six months. (The process currently can take as long as ten years.) It also allocated funds to hire more border patrol agents. The deal drew criticism from progressive lawmakers and immigration advocacy groups. Despite pressure from the Left, the Biden White House signaled that the president would sign it, releasing a statement saying it represented the toughest and fairest set of border reforms in decades. Meanwhile, conservative critics of the bill said it didnt do enough to stop border crossings. In defending the bill, Lankford said he believes it was subject to a remarkable amount of misinformation; either people did not read the bill, didnt follow it, or they saw some posting on Facebook and believe that. While immigration reform is always a challenge, an attempt to tackle the topic was bound to face tough political winds during an election year. Lets say time-out and let the American people decide how we want to deal with this in November, when we have President Trumpwho actually had control of our borderagainst President Biden, Rep. Jim Jordan said on Fox Business. Let the country decide. Republicans have made clear that they dont want to give Biden a political win: RealClearPolling shows that he has a 63 percent disapproval rating on the issue of immigration. In his campaign, Trump pledges to be tough on enforcement. Meanwhile, Democrats blamed partisanship for the effort imploding. We now have a definitive answer as to whether the Republican Party really wants to fix the border. They dont. They have become addicted to just using the issue of immigration as a political wedge and an election year issue, Murphy, the lead Democrat negotiator, toldThe Washington Post after the vote. On Sunday, there were 20 to 25 Senate Republicans who would potentially support the bill, according to Murphy. But on Wednesday, only four Republicans voted to advance the measure. What would they do on their weekends if they couldnt drag cameras down to the border to show off how disastrous it is? What would they give speeches about if we actually fixed the border? Murphy asked rhetorically. Some Republicans also expressed frustration with the party politics. I followed the instructions of my conference, who were insisting that we tackle this in October, McConnell told reporters Tuesday. I mean, its actually our side that wanted to tackle the border issue. We started it. Even as Congress remains stalled on immigration, polls show that growing numbers of American evangelicals want something to be done to address the countrys broken immigration system. In a 2015 Lifeway survey, 61 percent of self-identified evangelicals responded that they were in favor of a pathway to citizenship for immigrants; by 2022, the number had ticked up to 77 percent. Among evangelicals who said they attended church at least once a week, it was 82 percent in favor. Evangelicals reported favoring a bipartisan immigration deal that would pair border security with allowing undocumented immigrants to seek citizenship if they met certain requirements, such as paying a fine and passing a criminal background check. Some evangelicals said they hope this most recent stalemate doesnt prevent people of faith from continuing to engage on the tough issue. Immigration is an issue that should strike very close to the heart of any Christian in this country, Smith said. If we care for the least and the lost, that has got to include the immigrant. And for Christians not to be actively involved in trying to solve this problem is cowardly. Darling argued that the week shows the need for more Christians to get involved in politics, following Lankfords example. It seems, right now, that the most extreme and shrill voices are the ones that have their voices heard because a lot of other folks just dont get involved, he said. I actually think this means Christians should be involved. I think when we leave the arena, it cedes it to the most extreme voices on both sides. As of the time of publication, Lankfords office had not returned a request for comment. In the wake of additional allegations against its founder Mike Bickle, the International House of Prayer Kansas City (IHOPKC) cut off the livestream feed for the 24-7 prayer room that has defined its movement. On Thursday night, the display read, IHOPKC is entering a season of prayer and repentance. The day before, the Kansas City Star ran a story on a woman who said Bickle abused her as a 14-year-old in the 80s, when she was his familys babysitter and he was a pastor in St. Louis. IHOPKC released a statement condemning Bickles predatory and abusive actions, standing by his victims, and apologizing for its initial response of allowing him to defend himself when accusations surfaced last fall. The ministry cut ties with Bickle in December, but that hasnt stopped further revelations and concerns from emerging around IHOPKC and its leadership. In a seven-page report released last week, the investigative firm hired by IHOPKC to look into the abuse allegations against Bickle concluded: Based on all the credible evidence, including his own acknowledgements of contact with the two Jane Does over twenty years ago, it is more likely than not that [Bickle] engaged in inappropriate behavior including sexual contact and clergy misconduct, in an abuse of power for a person in a position of trust and leadership. The two cases that Bickle acknowledgesone with inappropriate behavior including two instances of kissing and another he describes as a consensual sexual contact that involved her touching me but not me touching hertook place in 1999 and 20022003. The report is not comprehensive; at least two of Bickles alleged victims did not participate over the terms of the investigation and are calling for a truly independent third party inquiry. The report also didnt include the latest account from the former babysitter, Tammy Woods, who just broke her 43-year silence to report the abuse to her family, her pastor, and the police. Woods told the Kansas City Star that she met Bickle at church, and their relationship grew from friendly mentorship and spiritual encouragement to expressing feelings for one another. Woods childhood friend and younger sister also recounted that the pastor had a strangely close bond with her as a high school freshman. Woods said that starting when she was 14 and Bickle was 25, they kissed in secret and progressed to fondling and sexual touch. She told the paper, He moved my hand to touch him sexually. And he did touch me in return. Woods, now 57, recounted a detail other victims have also shared: Bickle told her he believed his wife would die and that they could be together. According to Woods, Bickle would anguish over failure and apologize after crossing a line with her physically, and she promised to keep his secret to the grave when he moved from St. Louis to Kansas City in 1983. They stayed in touch on and off over the years, seeing each other a couple times in ministry settings, she said. Woods, who lives in Michigan, texted with Bickle after the accusations came forward in October and as he made a statement in December. She said he told her, I know you said this over the years that youve forgiven me, but I just want to say it again. Please forgive me. I was clueless. I could have gone to jail. Bickle has not responded publicly to Woodss account. The advocate groupformer IHOPKC leaders who came to Bickle and his ministry with the allegations last fallhas stood by their concerns after a few women calling themselves not ever Jane Does spoke out against their inclusion in the initial group of allegations and said they were not victims of Bickle. In one video from the advocate group, members Dean Briggs and John Chisholm explained that they resigned from IHOPKC leadership in September over another incident: the ministrys mishandling of an alleged affair between Mike Bickles son and the wife of a IHOPKC staffer. They cited a 50-page testimony from the womans husband, which they said was submitted to top leaders. Others have left amid the ongoing revelations around Bickle, including former IHOPKC executive director Stuart Greaves and former IHOP University president David Silker. Eric Volz, the crisis communicator who was managing IHOPKCs public response, concluded his work for the ministry last week. On Wednesday, he said he was not aware of Woodss allegations and neither was IHOPKC. Abuse attorney and advocate Boz Tchividjian, who is representing at least one of Bickles victims, has criticized the ministrys response. IHOPKC leaders should write a book about steps toxic Christian communities can take to fail miserably in protecting those with less power while also marginalizing & vilifying others who bring darkness to light, he wrote on Threads. It all begins with a leadership that embraces arrogance & ignorance. The scandal has frustrated former IHOPKC members who say they experienced an unhealthy culture at the ministry and who are praying for greater transparency and accountability. In recent weeks, charismatic leaders who have been close to the movement have also spoken up to address the scandal. Lou Engle, the founder of TheCall prayer ministry, had spent five years at IHOPKC and began Justice House of Prayer in DC. He released a statement on Tuesday saying he believes the advocates and Jane Doe, that he is praying for a full confession from Bickle, and wants to see a mutually agreed-upon independent investigation. Calling for extreme contrition, Engle wrote that God has his eyes out for toleration of moral laxity and of sexual immoralityespecially clergy abuse in the church and that leaders need to hear the cries of many thousands of woman who have been wounded by leaders in the body of Christ. Two weeks ago, self-described prophet Jeremiah Johnson shared a dream where he told Bickle he was being exposed and that the movement would shift from Kansas City to the nations. He called on his followers to pray for the situation at IHOPKC, for the future of the prayer movement, and for truth and repentance. Evangelist Matt Brown, who was among the many who have tuned into IHOPs prayer livestream, said that he was sickened by the claims against Bickle and his partial confession. I dont have any idea how to explain how someone who was so dedicated to a prayer movement can secretly manipulate and abuse those under their ministry care. Its absolutely wrong and evil, said Brown, founder of the ministry Think Eternity. I have a feeling there will be many orphans in the prayer movement. I pray for healing and comfort for those he abused, exposure of anything that was done, and mercy for many prayer people left confused and crushed as well. [ This article is also available in Portugues, , and . ] Joel Belz answered the angry phone calls himself. When 10, then 20, and then 30 and 40 irate readers called the offices of World magazine to complain about a cover story on a Republican presidential candidatequestioning the mans commitment to conservatism and raising questions about his character, his multiple marriages, and how hed earned his moneyBelz took the calls. He asked each one the same question. Could they point to any facts that were wrong? He understood they didnt want the Christian newsmagazine to criticize a Republican, and that if the candidate lost and Democrats won the White House, that would be bad for conservatives. But could they point to anything in the article that was actually incorrect? If they could show him an error, he said, he would give them a free years subscription. So far, Belz told the Asheville Citizen-Times in 2000, as John McCains insurgent campaign started to falter, not a single subscriber has challenged a phrase of our report. Belz always believed that Christians needed the news. In an increasingly liberal and secular society that said everything is relative, he thought conservative evangelicals and orthodox Bible-believers, in particular, needed sound journalism, grounded in facts and biblical truth. Evenespeciallyif it was challenging. We wouldnt pretend there are clear biblical directives on every issue, Belz said in 2000. But there are facts that [have] to be stated publicly. In that sense, we believe the Bible calls for the demonstration of truth. Belz died at home in Asheville, North Carolina, on February 4. He was 82. Belz founded Its Gods World, a Christian newsmagazine for middle school students, in 1981, and expanded the idea to other age groups with Exploring Gods World, Sharing Gods World, Gods Big World, and Gods World Today. He launched World, for adults, in 1986. The motto of the magazine was taken from Psalm 24: The earth is the Lords and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein. Belz described World as a magazine for the 5 percent of the people in a typical evangelical church who are serious about applying their faith to the rest of their lives. The mission, he said, was simply to help readers see the world and everything in it from a God-centered perspective. Belz also helped start the World Journalism Institute in 1999 to cultivate Christian journalists committed to factual reporting. The institute has trained more than 700 people, to date. Some have worked for national media organizations including The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, Los Angeles Times, and USA Today, as well as many state and local papers, politically conservative publications, and religious outlets including Baptist News and Christianity Today. He leaves behind decades of service to Christs church, a trusted institution, a lengthy body of work, and a new generation of journalists and writers who stand on his shoulders, the Colson Center said in a statement. Andrew Walker, a World editor and a theology professor at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, called Belz a titan of his times and a legend of Christian journalism. Evangelicals owe him a tremendous debt of gratitude for the legacy he has left, Walker said, one of professionalism, conviction, and excellence. Belz was born on August 10, 1941, in Marshalltown, Iowa. His father and mother, Max Victor Belz and Jean Franzenburg Belz, were part of the Bible Presbyterian Church, a conservative Calvinist denomination led by Carl McIntire and others who split from the mainline Presbyterian church during the modernist-fundamentalist controversies. The Belzes helped start a Presbyterian school and plant a church a few miles outside of Walker, Iowa, then a town of about 460 people. The family had eight kidsraised to read the Bible, sing hymns, recite the Westminster Catechism at breakfast, and love church. The family also ran a printing operation in their basement. Belz learned to operate the linotype press at age 11 and loved it. He tried to go into the printing business for himself as a freshman in college, but the enterprise quickly ended in disaster. He borrowed money from his grandfather to buy a linotype and took it with him to Covenant College, a Presbyterian school then located in St. Louis. As Belz attempted to move the printing press into the school basement, there was an accident, and it fell down a flight of stairs. It may have been worth thousands at the top of the stairs, he would later say, but by the time it reached the bottom it was worth $20 in scrap metal. The disaster didnt dampen Belzs passion for printing, though. Before he graduated, he spent a semester working on a prototype for a Christian newspaper. It was always his ambition, his sister Julie Lutz told World. After graduation in 1962, Belz went to work for Covenant College and helped scout out a new location in Lookout Mountain, Georgia. He went back to school to earn an MA in communications and then returned to Covenant to work in public relations and to teach classes in media, English, and logic. He discovered he wasnt good at teaching, though, and quit after two years. An opportunity to return to publishing arose in 1977 with The Presbyterian Journal in Asheville, North Carolina. Belz took the job. The journal was founded in 1942 by Billy Grahams father-in-law, L. Nelson Bell (who later went on to found Christianity Today). The journal was supposed to fight theological liberalism in the Presbyterian church, but with the separation of conservatives and the founding of the Presbyterian Church in America, it lost a lot of relevance. By the late 70s, the journal was in decline and fast losing subscribers. The Presbyterian Journal was also going through a crisis of leadership. The staff became so divided, former World editor Marvin Olasky recalled, that writers and editors began working in two separate buildings. Belz proposed and launched his first childrens magazine in 1981. It was popular at Christian schools and drew bulk subscriptions. In the next few years, Belz added four more publications for different age groups. Together, the childrens newsmagazines brought in about 250,000 weekly paid subscriptionsmore than 10 times the number of subscriptions for The Presbyterian Journal. The board decided to put Belz in charge, and he proposed an ambitious new project: an alternative Christian newsmagazine for adults. Huge gaps existed in the effort to help Christians think biblically, Belz later explained. No one was picking up each weeks political news, international happenings, media developments, advances in science, changes in the welfare system, matters of health and medicineno one was regularly (and rigorously) reflecting on all these aspects of life from a pointedly and conservatively biblical point of view. Christianity Today, then a biweekly magazine, focused its news reporting on the church and what evangelicals were doing in the world. World, in contrast, wanted to cover everythingfrom a uniquely Christian perspective. World, however, almost failed as fast as Belzs college printing business. The first issue was put out in March 1986. It was 16 pages, printed on glossy paper, with congressmen Phil Gramm and Warren Rudman in color on the cover. Inside, theologian R. C. Sproul offered analysis of proposed legislation, and there was reporting on the violent political struggle in Nicaragua. Subscriptions did not flood in. After 13 issues, the magazine was about $300,000 in debt. It only had about 5,000 readers and many of them didnt seem too happy with what they were reading. Christian adults disagree on a lot more issues than Christian kids, Belz said. The board of The Presbyterian Journal decided to cancel the publication. Belz, however, had a counterproposal. He suggested that The Presbyterian Journal should shut down and its resources be invested, instead, in World, which he calculated he could produce at a reduced cost of less than 10 cents per copy. The board agreed, put $300,000 into the fledgling magazine, and Belz relaunched World in 1987. For the next five years, he later recalled, the goal was survival. Could we publish one more edition? Could we pay one more weeks postage bills? Could we meet salaries one more time? After the first five years, we still had fewer than 20,000 subscribers and were hemorrhaging red ink faster than we wanted anybody to know. The newsmagazine survived, however, and achieved some stability by the early 1990s. By the time World celebrated its tenth anniversary, more than 85,000 subscribers were receiving the 32-page magazine 50 times per year. The magazines profile was boosted by conservative political leaders, including William Bennett and Newt Gingrich, who praised it publicly. But World really set itself apart by its commitment to news reporting. We had a sense that this was a void, Belz said in 1996. He criticized the many successful Christian publications that didnt put any resources into reporting: Its kind of scary that people who are supposed to be so committed to the truth and to the Word have so easily accepted a communications model thats based so much on feelings and experiences. Everythings about how people feel. Its getting harder for people to focus on whats true and whats false. As part of that commitment to focus on facts, World also did investigative work, reporting on the misconduct of Christians and the scandals and cover-ups troubling many evangelical institutions. Olasky, who joined World in the early 1990s, said it bothered Belz that Christian media organizations hadnt broken the story of the scandal that brought down televangelists Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker. Joel said, Gee, I wish we had done that, Olasky said. We dont want to leave it to the secular press to expose wrongdoing within the church. World went on to report on numerous evangelical scandals, including sexual abuse at a missionary boarding school in West Africa, megachurch pastor Mark Driscolls plagiarism and manipulation of bestseller lists, megachurch pastor James MacDonalds bullying and spiritual abuse, Christian college president Dinesh DSouzas apparent marital infidelity, and more. Any one of Worlds near-weekly issues had the potential to set off a bomb in American evangelicalism. It gave the magazine enough of an edge that Christian media commentator Terry Mattingly called it Rolling Stone for cultural conservative evangelicals. If some readers were occasionally angry about the critical coverage of Republicans, that didnt hurt either, according to Belz. He claimed conservative attacks on Worlds reporting on John McCain only put us on the map. And no one ever did get that free years subscription. As much as Joels vision gave everyday vibrancy to timeless truths found in Scripture, he was also the son of a pastor who ran a print shop in the basement, wrote Belzs sister-in-law Mindy Belz, who reported for World for 35 years. He came from small beginnings in rural Iowa, the second-oldest of eight children. And he was a mid-century newspaperman at heart. Belz stepped back from the magazine amid health concerns but continued writing columns up to January 2024. One month before his death, he wrote about the dangers of deception. Our culture has learned how to play fast and loose with the truth, Belz told World readers. And we Christian believers arent immune to the infection that saturates the culture we live in. Belz is survived by his wife of 49 years, Carol Esther; daughters Jenny Gienapp, Katrina Costello, Alice Tucker, Elizabeth Odegard, and Esther Morrison; their children and grandchildren; and a large extended family. His funeral will be held at Arden Presbyterian Church near Asheville and streamed online on Saturday, February 10. He will be buried in Black Mountain, North Carolina, in a coffin built by family members. Home News Democrat mayor warns his sanctuary city is nearing 'breaking point' housing migrants 'Biden has resorted to threatening the American people with an even worse border crisis,' Texas Rep. Austin Pfluger Denvers Democrat Mayor Mike Johnston warned that the city is close to its breaking point as officials struggle to accommodate the growing number of economic migrants entering the country through the U.S. southern border under the Biden administration. Democrat-run cities, like Denver, whose leaders have touted their sanctuary city policies, are now claiming they cannot accommodate the influx of undocumented migrants in their communities. More than 6.5 migrants have crossed the border since Biden took office, not including an estimated 1.7 million known gotaways, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. In fiscal year 2023, 169 people on the terrorist watchlist were caught attempting to enter the country through the U.S.-Mexico border. Last year, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott began transporting hundreds and sometimes thousands of migrants to sanctuary cities across the U.S. to expose the problems faced by small border towns and cities in Southern border states whose public services (public schools, hospitals and shelters) have been overwhelmed as a result of the Biden's administration's policies allowing massive illegal immigration. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe Since December, multiple reports noted that the city has housed 4,000 migrants in its shelters, with more expected to arrive. Citing city officials, Fox News reported earlier this week that Denver would be removing around 140 families from shelters, with plans to remove an additional 660 migrant families over the next few weeks. CBS News reported Monday that the city of Denver will be discharging migrants who have been housed at shelters for 42 days, based on their arrival date. According to a statement on the citys website, Denver has supported 38,443 migrants as of Feb. 5, 2024, at a cost of more than $42 million. The statement warned that the influx of economic migrants could force the city to cut as much as $180 million from its annual budget for other services. Last week, Mayor Johnston told Fox News that Denver was "very close" to its breaking point. During a press conference last week, the mayor stated that the city is at full capacity. "We have filled every single hotel room that we have available in the city and county of Denver," he said. "Now we have the terrible decision that if we dont start exiting folks, we will have 250 folks that will arrive today or the day after who dont have anywhere to go at night. Massachusetts Democratic Gov. Maura Healey voiced similar concerns about the states ability to accommodate any more illegal immigrants as dozens of migrants sleep on the floor at the Logan Airport in Boston. Last month, Healey cited this as evidence that the state cannot house any additional migrants. The bottom line here is that we really are reaching, have reached capacity, Healey said. I just continue to express in the strongest terms possible, thats why we need action at the federal government. This is not a problem that Massachusetts created. However, its a problem that were having to deal with right now. As The Boston Herald previously reported in November, the states shelter system maxed out at 7,500 families, and many adults and children were put on a waitlist. The photos of migrants sleeping at the airport in Boston were shared first by CBS News last month. Other states that have been forced to shelter migrants at airports include Texas, Arizona, Illinois and New York. In an affluent suburb of Chicago, Illinois, a city councilman recently pitched the idea of asking residents to open their homes to economic migrants, noting that the influx of illegal immigrants under the Biden administration is untenable, according to The Gazette. President Joe Biden has faced criticism from Republicans and some members of his party for the border crisis. Texas' governor, in particular, has accused the Biden administration of failing to fulfill its constitutional duty to enforce federal laws. On Wednesday, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters that the president was threatening to reduce funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in the coming weeks, thus thwarting the agencys ability to remove illegal immigrants at the southern border in retaliation for the failure of the Senates unpopular border bill, according to American Military News. During a press gaggle, Jean-Pierre told reporters, Here is what that means: ICE would be forced to reduce its removal operations, its total detention capacity, and more. When ICE cant conduct these operations, our national security and public safety will be harmed. In response, Republicans in both the House and the Senate criticized the Biden administration for threatening the American people. Rep. Austin Pfluger, R-Texas, tweeted, President Biden has now resorted to threatening the American people with an even worse border crisis. The President already has the tools and authority he needs to close the border. This crisis is intentional. On Monday, Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, listed 12 reasons why the Senates border bill could not be viewed as a legitimate solution, including that it would allow 1.8 million illegal immigrants to enter the U.S., and would continue to allow catch-and-release of economic migrants into the country. According to NBC News, the Biden administration is planning to take executive action to address the border crisis. According to two U.S. officials, the administration has been considering the plan for months. The unnamed official reportedly told the network that the measures the administration is considering might upset some progressive members of Congress but will likely prove pleasing to Democratic mayors who've requested help from the federal government. At this time, however, the measures are not expected to take place, as they are still in the process of being drafted, according to NBC. Biden criticized Senate and House Republicans for rejecting the proposed Senate border bill that included funding for Ukraine, Israel and Gaza, that many saw as a war-funding bill instead of a border security bill. Multiple Republican senators, including Texas Sens. Ted Cruz and John Cornyn said would've only exacerbated the border crisis by a president who is refusing to enforce current immigration laws. The fact of the matter is we have no confidence, zero confidence, that the Biden administration will enforce the law when it comes to the border, Cornyn said. Home News Christian parents could face arrest for speaking publicly about losing custody of trans daughter The Christian parents from Montana who claimed they lost custody of their suicidal 14-year-old daughter after they refused to allow her to be admitted to a group home out of state over fears she could potentially seek surgical or hormonal gender interventions say they now face the possibility of arrest for sharing their story. Todd and Krista Kolstad had their 14-year-old daughter removed from their custody last month, and the state of Montana's Child and Family Services took the girl into its care. Their daughter (known to the public as "Jennifer" for privacy reasons) began identifying as male in 2021 and requested that people call her "Leo," which her parents opposed. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe The parents have spoken publicly about what happened with their daughter in violation of a judge's order for them to remain silent about the case. In an interview this week with The Christian Post, Krista Kolstad said the couple learned from a legal source that they would likely be arrested upon returning to Montana. The pair received notice about their potential arrest while caring for a sick relative in Ohio. The stepmother said the couple has been talking with their public defender, but as of now, it remains unclear what will happen as it depends on the judge's interpretation of the gag order and how the pair may have violated it. "Our rights were taken away, and we were disrespected as her parents," she said. "And as a result, our relationship with our daughter has been damaged, and our daughter ultimately has been damaged, and she's the most important one here." At the time of the interview, the Kolstads' daughter was living in a group home in Billings, and they have been able to talk with her during family therapy sessions. The last time the couple spoke to their daughter was on Jan. 23. "Physically, she's OK," the stepmother told CP. "She's very angry, and a lot of that anger stems from the fact that she's being allowed to transition, and we're saying that's still not OK with us." While the stepmother stated that she and her husband would like their daughter to come home and have made this clear to her, the teenager has expressed a desire to live with her birthmother in Canada. According to Kolstad, the teen's mother only became involved in the girl's life a few months ago, and Jennifer wants to live with her birthmother because she'll allow the teenager to transition. In August 2023, Jennifer expressed a desire to end her life while at school, and she was later taken to the hospital. After communicating with Child and Family Services, the parents agreed that Jennifer would benefit from specialized residential care. The parents opposed sending the teenager to a facility in Wyoming once a space became available, fearing that Jennifer may transition without their consent due to the laws in that state. After the parents refused to sign the paperwork to approve sending Jennifer to the facility, CFS allegedly came to the family's home with police to take their daughter away. According to Kolstad, the family was informed that Jennifer has since been moved to Canada to be with her birthmother. According to an affidavit obtained by CP, CFS stated that the child was at "imminent risk of physical harm" as one of the reasons for removing the teenager from the home after the parents declined to sign the paperwork. The document also framed this as "neglect" on the part of the Kolstads. "They showed up at our house with the paperwork removing her from our care," Krista Kolstad said. "And if you look at the paperwork, it specifically says that we were unable or unwilling to provide medical care. And that's not true." The affidavit made other allegations about Jennifer's home environment, with the CFS worker reporting that the girl's father had a drinking problem and that the teenager was often exposed to fights between her parents. In addition, the CFS worker accused Krista Kolstad of being verbally abusive to Jennifer. In response to the allegations, Krista Kolstad provided a statement to CP from an employee who lived in an apartment connected to the Kolstads' house in the summer of 2022. The teenage employee swore that he had never witnessed any verbal or physical abuse, nor did he witness any fights between Krista and Todd Kolstad during the time that he lived with them. "I have never been accused of being verbally abusive to ANYONE in my life. It also says in the parenting assessment that my home was clean, well stocked with food, and free of any dangers," Kolstad said. "Our daughter has a history of lying and attention-seeking behavior. We let CPS know of this, and it is not noted in any of their reports." Last month, Montana's Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte commented on the situation, stating that Lt. Gov. Kirsten Juras had reviewed the details and concluded that "officials followed state policy and law in their handling of this tragic case." The Republican governor also referenced his signing of Senate Bill 99 in April 2023, which prohibits body-altering surgeries for minors suffering from gender dysphoria and prevents these procedures from being funded with taxpayer dollars. Krista Kolstad told CP that she believes Gianforte is trying to "protect himself," noting that the legislation surrounding cases like hers is a bit of a "grey area." "We, as far as we know, we're the first and only family in Montana this has happened to," the stepmother said. "But I feel like our family is damaged now, and the system broke our family. And you know, we'll come together as a family and make the repairs to that. But we have to speak up, or this is going to happen to other families." Home News Tim Pool blames 'tolerant and accepting' conservative Christians for America's decline Are Christian conservatives to blame for Americas cultural decline? The answer, at least according to podcaster Tim Pool: sort of. Pool, who hosts the popular show Timcast IRL, made the comments during his Feb. 3 episode in which he pointed to Christian tolerance as playing a role in the rapid societal changes over the last few decades. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe During a segment in which he and journalist Charlie Spiering were discussing the Biden administrations political strategy, Pool said the perception that Christians are super hateful has brought America to this point in history. It's really funny how the Left says Christians are all super hateful and all that, said Pool. And I'm thinking this because I'm like, you know who I blame for all the stuff happening right now? Where we are in my generation? I blame Christian conservatives. And it's because they're too good of people, and they were very tolerant and accepting of so many really bad people that they kept acting in good faith and allowed these far leftists and communists to infiltrate institutions. Pool, 37, pointed to the history of Christianity in American politics and how conservatism paved the way for Evangelicals to ultimately compromise their values for political gain. And being good people, they're like, 'Well, you know, we should give these people a fair chance,' and now you've got communists running over everything, he added. As an example, he cited the ongoing legal cases against former President Donald Trump, calling the Republican Party impotent for failing to respond to Democrats in kind. I mean Donald Trump gets sued, criminally charged, abused mercilessly, in these jurisdictions. Not a single Republican jurisdiction is countering, he said. I mean, maybe there's one or two small ones here, there, but where's West Virginia or Texas? Last March, during a podcast with GOP Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida and others, Pool linked increasing lawlessness in America with the sharp decline in Christianity. "If every single person in this country was a devout Christian ... you'd need no laws and no police, Pool said at the time. Despite the talking point often espoused in mainstream media, academia and elsewhere that Christians lack empathy toward non-Christian groups, a 2019 study found political conservatives who are highly religious are as likely as political liberals to report similar levels of empathy. Religious identification does not signal a static identity that individuals take on wholesale, researchers said. Instead, religiosity is incorporated into the lives of individuals whose identities are already raced, classed, and gendered; it is intersectional, and as a result, religiosity has a variety of interpretations and uses in everyday life. A June 2023 Gallup poll found double-digit increases in conservative social ideology among middle-aged adults between the ages of 30 and 64, along with a modest increase in conservative social ideology among young adults. Home News Judge tosses Yelp's lawsuit against Texas over pro-life pregnancy center disclaimers A federal judge has sided with the state of Texas as it seeks to take legal action against a website that sought to add disclaimers to information about pro-life pregnancy centers. A Feb. 1 opinion filed by U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California Judge Trina Thompson rejects Yelp's request for a preliminary injunction preventing Texas' Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton from taking action against the customer review website for adding disclaimers declaring pro-life pregnancy centers "typically provide limited medical services and may not have licensed medical providers onsite." The battle between Paxton and Yelp stems from the aftermath of the June 2022 U.S. Supreme Court decisionDobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, which determined that the U.S. Constitution does not contain a right to abortion and led to several states enacting laws limiting or banning abortion. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe In August 2022, Yelp published a notice to inform consumers that pro-life crisis pregnancy centers "typically provide limited medical services and may not have licensed medical professionals onsite." After 24 state attorneys general sent Yelp a letter demanding that the company remove the first notice on Feb. 7, 2023, it responded by issuing a revised notice proclaiming that "crisis Pregnancy Centers do not offer abortions or referrals to abortion providers." In September 2022, Paxton announced his intention to sue Yelp for violating the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act by adding disclaimers about pro-life pregnancy centers. Shortly after that, Yelp filed a countersuit asking a court to prevent Paxton from taking any further action against the company. Thompson, appointed to the bench by President Joe Biden, maintained that current legal precedent required her to side with the state of Texas and dismiss Yelp's lawsuit. Paxton released a statement reacting to the development Friday. "Yelp cannot mislead and deceive the public simply because the company disagrees with our state's laws," he said. "I'm pleased that the court agreed with Texas that Yelp's federal lawsuit was a frivolous attempt to avoid enforcement for misleading consumers." Paxton's lawsuit, filed in the District Court of Bastrop County, Texas, in September, elaborates on what he views as infractions committed by Yelp against the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act. The law prohibits "disparaging the goods, services, or business of another by providing a false or misleading representation of facts." A section of the lawsuit outlining "Yelp's misleading and disparaging behavior" maintains that the company abided by a double standard when it came to labeling pregnancy centers. While pro-life pregnancy centers were labeled with a disclaimer reading "This is a Crisis Pregnancy Center" and "Crisis Pregnancy Centers typically provide limited medical services and may not have licensed medical professionals onsite," Paxton expressed concern that the disclaimer was added to all pro-life pregnancy centers even if they did have medical professionals onsite. "The Yelp disclaimer, however, was not added to other facilities that cater to pregnant women specifically, facilities that provide abortion services, even if those facilities did not in fact have licensed medical professionals on site," the lawsuit stated. The state rejects the argument that Yelp sought to "provid[e] consumers with reliable and useful information," suggesting that "Yelp's disclaimer provided users with misleading information." "Yelp's disclaimer remarkably did not even provide the true information as it was permitted to do that pregnancy resource centers do not provide abortion services," the complaint reads. "Upon information and belief, Yelp's pregnancy resource center disclaimer caused many consumers to seek services from facilities that did not have the disclaimer instead of going to a pregnancy resource center." Paxton said one pregnancy center documented the presence of medical professionals on staff in an effort to get Yelp to remove the disclaimer only for the company not to make the requested change for several months. His lawsuit remains ongoing and requests civil penalties against Yelp as well as attorney's fees. The lawsuit also suggests that Yelp CEO Jeremy Stoppelman's support for the 1973 Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion, which Dobbs overturned, played a role in the company's decision to single out pro-life pregnancy centers. It includes quotes from Stoppelman documenting his "realiz[ation] [that] we need[] to take action" and asserting that Yelp provides special assistance to "select organizations that are fighting the legal battle against abortion bans." Additional statements attributed to Stoppelman included in the complaint contend that "remaining silent on the issue of reproductive rights flies in the face of any public pledges professing a desire to create more diverse and inclusive companies" and "we need more business leaders to use their platform and influence to help ensure that reproductive rights are codified into law." Home News Pediatricians group says evidence lacks to support gender sugeries, hormones for trans youth The American College of Pediatricians has released a new position paper outlining findings based on a review of dozens of studies to claim that providing gender transition procedures to minors with gender dysphoria does not lead to an improvement in mental health. The ACP, which describes itself as a 600-member national organization of pediatricians and other healthcare professionals dedicated to the health and well-being of children, released the report Monday titled Mental Health in Adolescents with Incongruence of Gender Identity and Biological Sex. The group has long expressed skepticism about surgical and hormonal interventions for children who say they identify as the opposite sex and warns that trans-identified children are at higher risk for psychopathology than their peers even in cases where they receive some type of gender transition procedure. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe In an interview with The Christian Post, the reports author, ACP board member Dr. Jane Anderson, said, The most important thing is to recognize that these adolescents need and benefit from mental health support. There is a high incidence of adolescents who come into this medical care who have previous history of depression or anxiety or autism or other medical or psychological concerns, she said. And those issues have to be dealt with first, she added. Its just crucial that they receive the mental health services and support that they so desperately need. The paper expressed concern that parents, along with health care and educational professionals, who support the transgender transition of children and adolescents are, in fact, contributing to increased depression by appearing to validate to the children that something is wrong with their body and biological sex. The document cites multiple studies to back up its assertions. The Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study, which examined 7,111 cisgender children and 58 trans-identified children between the ages of 9 and 10 in 2022, found that trans-identified youth in this age group were 2.53 times more likely to experience depression than their peers who did not suffer from gender dysphoria, the report states. Trans-identified children in the study were also 2.7 times more likely to experience anxiety, 3.13 times more likely to have conduct problems and 5.79 times more likely to possess suicidal thoughts, Anderson added. The Healthy Minds Study, which surveyed 65,213 students at 71 college campuses across the United States between 2015 and 2017, revealed that 78% of students classified as gender minorities showed signs of depression, anxiety, eating disorders, self-injury and suicidality compared to only 45% of respondents who were not gender minorities. Psychological evaluations of 49 youth seeking gender transition procedures in Vienna, Austria, found that 57% of them had at least one psychiatric diagnosis. The report states that in another study evaluating 919,868 children between the ages of 9 and 18, 8.6% of participants who had an autism spectrum disorder experienced gender dysphoria compared to 0.6% of those not on the autism spectrum. Additionally, Anderson reported the rate of suicide attempts among trans-identified youth is not different from that experienced by individuals who have experienced bullying or who identify as LGB. Anderson described this finding as a little surprising because were told over and over again its so important that you allow your adolescent to transition or they are going to kill themselves due to a reportedly higher suicide among trans-identified youth compared to their cisgender peers. Additional data included in the report attempted to determine whether there was a relationship between adverse childhood events and transgender identity. Anderson cited a study of 3,508 LGBT adolescents that found respondents reported an average of 3.14 adverse childhood events such as exposure to domestic violence, mental illness, alcohol or drug use in the home, physical or emotional abuse or neglect, sexual abuse, and parental divorce. A survey of 1,665 parents of children with gender dysphoria showed that 57% of trans-identified adolescents had mental health concerns dating back to an average of 3.8 years before they began to experience discomfort with their biological sex and 42.5% of them had received a formal psychological diagnosis. Anderson wrote that a study from the McMaster University Department of Health Research Methods found that it is unknown whether people with gender dysphoria who use puberty blockers experience more improvement in gender dysphoria, depression, anxiety, and quality of life than those with gender dysphoria who do not use them. There is very low certainty about the effects of puberty blockers on suicidal ideation. A 2021 comprehensive data review of all 3,754 trans-identified adolescents in US military families over 8.5 years showed that cross-sex hormone treatment leads to increased use of [mental] health services and psychiatric medications, and increased suicidal ideation/attempted suicide, the report stated. The 2021 study indicated that when transgender-identifying adolescents who were using gender-affirming pharmaceuticals (963) were evaluated separately, their use of mental health care services did not change but their use of psychotropic medications did increase, Anderson wrote. There is strong evidence that children and adolescents who identify as transgender have experienced significant psychological trauma leading to their gender dysphoria, Anderson concluded. She also asserts that there is no long-term evidence that current gender affirming medication and surgical protocols benefit their mental well-being. High rates of suicide attempts and/or completions in those who have received gender affirming interventions indicate that at minimum, long term controlled trials should be conducted if these interventions are to be continued. More attention and support should be afforded to individuals seeking help in detransitioning after having made a decision during their formative adolescent years with life-long consequences, including possible sterility and loss of sexual function. After reiterating its opposition to allowing trans-identified youth to obtain gender transition procedures, the ACP recommended: intensive psychotherapy for the individual and family to determine and hopefully treat the underlying etiology of their gender incongruence. Andersons report comes as other professional organizations have voiced their approval for surgical and hormonal interventions. The American Medical Association contends that "improving access to gender-affirming care is an important means of improving health outcomes for the transgender population." Receipt of gender-affirming care has been linked to dramatically reduced rates of suicide attempts, decreased rates of depression and anxiety, decreased substance use, improved HIV medication adherence and reduced rates of harmful self-prescribed hormone use, the AMA states on its website. In 2022, the American Academy of Pediatrics stated that it doesnt recommend body mutilating surgeries to most youth after it was accused of ignoring findings that led European countries like Sweden, Finland and the United Kingdom to place severe restrictions on medical transition for minors. In the U.K., for instance, Englands National Health Service announced last June that it would only commission puberty-suppressing hormones as part of clinical research, restricting use of puberty-blocking drugs for gender transition outside of clinical trials. While Andersons paper did not elaborate on the long-term impacts of gender transition procedures, the ACP previously warned of the side effects of the life-altering treatments. Specifically, the group listed osteoporosis, mood disorders, seizures, [and] cognitive impairment as possible long-term impacts of puberty blockers while cautioning that cross-sex hormones put youth at an increased risk of heart attacks, stroke, diabetes, blood clots and cancers across their lifespan. Anderson raised additional concerns about the impact of gender transition procedures on adolescents in light of the fact that their brains are still developing and they are not mature enough to make major life-altering decisions. I think it is unacceptable to allow adolescents who are not allowed to get a tattoo in some states, who arent allowed to take a Tylenol at school without parental consent to be allowed to make such lifelong decisions that are going to affect their fertility, often end up sterilizing them. Concerns about the long-term impacts and effectiveness of gender transition procedures have prompted 23 states to ban minors from obtaining some or all of them: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah and West Virginia. While crackdowns on gender transition procedures for minors are taking place at the state level, Anderson says they are still being pushed in America. She hopes the U.S. would follow the lead of other countries who have been investigating and actually looking at the research, finding that there are no benefits to letting minors obtain gender transition procedures and take a pause on promoting the life-altering treatments. Home News EU lawmakers urge sanctions, travel ban against Tucker Carlson over Putin interview EU spokesperson claims 'no discussions' to ban Tucker Some current and former members of the European Parliament (MEPs) are calling for conservative political commentator Tucker Carlson to be slapped with sanctions for having interviewed Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier this week. Why I'm interviewing Vladimir Putin. pic.twitter.com/hqvXUZqvHX Tucker Carlson (@TuckerCarlson) February 6, 2024 Peter Stano, who serves as EU Commission spokesperson for foreign affairs, pushed back Thursday against reports that the EU was considering sanctions against the former Fox News host, according to Politico. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe "Currently there are no discussions in the relevant EU bodies linked to [Carlson]," Stano told reporters, but added that the bloc can sanction "propagandists" with a "track record" of "[undermining] the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine and to promote the illegal and brutal aggression by Putin. The story emerged after Guy Verhofstadt and other current or former MEPs told Newsweek that Carlson should face a travel ban to EU countries for being the first Western journalist to interview Putin since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. Verhofstadt, a former Belgian prime minister who has represented the country in the parliament since 2009, was himself banned from entering Russia in 2015, according to media reports. In 2018, Verhofstadt condemned what he described as a "circle of evil around our continent" emanating from then-President Donald Trump, Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Verhofstadt brought up Trump again in his recent comments to Newsweek, alleging to the outlet that Carlson is a "mouthpiece" for both Trump and Putin. "As Putin is a war criminal and the EU sanctions all who assist him in that effort, it seems logical that the External Action Service examine his case as well," he said. The External Action Service (EAS) is the diplomatic arm of the EU, and serves as its combined foreign and defense ministry. If the EAS finds sufficient reason to issue sanctions against an individual, it presents the case to European national leaders on the European Council for approval. Urmas Paet, an MEP from Estonia, also expressed support for banning Carlson from the EU, claiming to Newsweek that "Carlson wants to give a platform to someone accused of crimes of genocide." "If Putin has something to say he needs to say it in front of the ICC," Paet said. "At the same time Carlson is not being a real journalist since he has clearly expressed his sympathy for the Russian regime and Putin and has constantly disparaged Ukraine, the victim of Russian aggression." "So, for such propaganda for a criminal regime, you can end up on the list of sanctions. This concerns primarily a travel ban to E.U. countries," Paet added. Like Verhofstadt, Paet has also been publicly critical of Trump, claiming in 2018 that he was "breaking apart cooperation in the democratic world," according to Agency France-Presse. Former Spanish MEP Luis Garicano claimed Carlson is "no longer a newsman, but a propagandist for the most heinous regime on European soil and the one which is most dangerous to our peace and security." Polish MEP Witold Waszczykowski, by contrast, urged Verhofstadt and the others to focus less on an American journalist and more on politicians in the EU who continue to engage with Putin. "Here in the EU, we have top politicians [such] as [French President Emmanuel] Macron and [German Chancellor Olaf] Scholz who keep talking with Putin," Waszczykowski told Newsweek. "I would like rather Mr. Verhofstadt to take care of those European politicians who keep searching for how to appease Russia instead of helping Ukraine to win the war." Carlson confirmed Tuesday in an announcement on X that he had traveled to Moscow for an interview with Putin, which is slated to premiere on the platform Thursday at 6 p.m. EST. "Most Americans have no idea why Putin invaded Ukraine or what his goals are now," Carlson said in his announcement. "We are not here because we love Vladimir Putin," he also said. "We are not encouraging you to agree with what Putin may say in this interview, but we are urging you to watch it. You should know as much as you can." Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Newsweek that they had granted an interview to Carlson because his "position is different from the others. "It is in no way pro-Russian, it is not pro-Ukrainian, it is pro-American, but at least it contrasts with the position of the traditional Anglo-Saxon media," Peskov said. In 2021, Carlson said on his Fox News show that a whistleblower in Washington, D.C., had informed him that the National Security Agency (NSA) had been spying on his texts regarding a planned trip to Russia, which he claimed the NSA had planned to leak to media outlets in an attempt to have his show taken off the air. The NSA publicly denied Carlson's allegation, though Carlson maintained on the Full Send Podcast in March 2023 that the NSA had admitted to Congress that they had been spying on his encrypted messages on Signal. "Congress asked NSA, and NSA was like, 'Yes, we did this, but for good reason!' What would be a good reason to read [my texts]? ... Everyone's in on it Republicans and Democrats are all in on it," he said. "And by 'it,' I mean the assumption that there's no privacy whatsoever, that they have a right to know everything you're saying. And that's just not a right, as far as I'm concerned. If you have no privacy, you have no freedom." Home News Evangelical project warning against political partisanship in the Church led by 'Never Trumpers' A new project and curriculum aimed at helping churches "heal political divisions in the Church" is being led by Christian leaders who have previously voiced their dislike of former President Donald Trump and the support he's received from white Evangelicals. The After Party, a video-based curriculum for churches, schools and other faith-aligned organizations aimed at "advancing a Christ-centered political identity," is the brainchild of author and former pastor Curtis Chang, New York Times columnist David French and Russell Moore, director of the Public Theology Project at Christianity Today magazine and former president of the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention from 2013-2021. Initially launched with an online small group course and a series of virtual and in-person events planned for early 2024, "The After Party: Toward Better Christian Politics" consists of a six-session course and accompanying study guides on how Christians should view political engagement rather than the "what" of partisan politics or specific politicians. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe A spokesperson told The Christian Post that The After Party was formed "out of deep concern that partisan divisions are tearing apart our church, and that Christians on both sides the Left and the Right are called to submit our political behavior to the authority of Jesus." The After Party curriculum offers detailed instructions on how small group leaders should lead the sessions and includes a list of "optional" pre-written prayers under several categories, including "for the human family," "for the unity of the Church," "for justice" and "for our country." Justice is a recurring theme in the teaching modules, which frequently focus on Micah 6:8: "He has shown you, O man, what is good. What does Yahweh require of you but to act justly, To love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" In one segment titled "What is the Partisan Mind," French comments, "One thing that's really clear from Scripture is that we are not to forsake the fight for justice. So there is a place for justice. It's a requirement that we pursue justice." Several of the modules include titles such as "Pursuing Justice as the Antidote to Cynicism," "Reflecting on Past and Present Injustices" and "How We Pursue Justice." In one video, Moore and Charlie Dates, senior pastor of Progressive Baptist Church in Chicago, explain what they see as a direct link between the civil rights movement and the Church. "Previous generations of faithful black Christians did not see a separation between the faithfulness of the Gospel and the fight for justice in the public square," said Dates, adding, "There is no civil rights movement apart from the Church." "Everybody knows Dr. Martin Luther King, but everybody tends to forget that's Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King," Moore said. Calling out what the project's creators see as an "'us versus them' mentality [which] opposes the 'mind of Christ,'" the curriculum calls on Christians to shun political labels in favor of theological ones. French, for one, calls the "partisan mind antithetical in so many ways to being a disciple." "To be very clear, we are not calling and have not called for people to not be Republican or not be Democrat," said French. "Too many people in this country right now, they have placed that as a fundamental aspect of their identity. "And so, part of the call of the After Party is to move beyond that." Chang, a consulting faculty member at Duke Divinity School and senior fellow at Fuller Theological Seminary, said Republican, Democratic and "any other kind of political parties are just mere signposts" that should point Christians to "the ultimate Jesus after party" in eternity. "We're all heading towards one final destination, we're all coming from different starting points," said Chang. "We're going to need signposts coming in from the right, and we're gonna need signposts coming in from the left." The founder of Redeeming Babel, a Christian nonprofit, Chang is a former pastor of The River Church Community in San Jose, California, and founder and CEO of Consulting Within Reach (CWR), a firm serving nonprofits and government agencies. While The After Party says it's a nonpartisan effort, Chang has made several political statements in the past, including last May in a tweet from Redeeming Babel, which featured an image of Trump with a caption urging anyone considering leaving the Republican Party to "find other like-minded people" and "leave with others." The post has one like and one re-tweet. 'If youre leaving the GOP, find other like-minded people even if its two or three people, even if you keep a low profile. If you are thinking about leaving, leave with others.' - @curtischangRBhttps://t.co/2YtyyB63wK Redeeming Babel (@redeemingbabel) May 6, 2023 In 2021, Chang called on Christians to "own what happened" on Jan. 6 at the U.S. Capitol riot, which he called "evil." "What happened at the Capitol was a spiritual event," Chang wrote on Facebook. "An evil spirit animated it, and it was especially evil because so many claimed the name of Jesus. As a church, we have to own up to this ugly truth." He also blamed white Evangelicals for resistance to the push for mass COVID-19 injections during the lockdowns, telling a U.S. Senate committee in 2021, "The road to ending the pandemic runs through the Evangelical church, particularly the white Evangelical church." Decrying Evangelicals as the largest vaccine-hesitant demographic, he stated that "US evangelical culture is already exporting our misinformation and fears to the rest of the world, especially via social media." In September 2021, after founding Christians and the Vaccine, which he called "the leading national effort to persuade vaccine hesitant Evangelicals," Chang wrote a New York Times guest essay in which he claimed, "there is no actual religious basis for exemptions from vaccine mandates in any established stream of Christianity." He and French also partnered together on a podcast for the Christians and the Vaccine project in which French called out white Evangelicals whom he called "very, very, very Republican" for their purported "partisanship" and resistance to getting the shots as "an outlier from every other religious tradition, including religious traditions similar to theirs." "So, not only do you have a situation where you have a the white Evangelical community is an outlier in vaccine refusal, they're also an outlier in considering the health of their own community," he said, adding Evangelicals must contend with what French called "a spiritual problem in the lack of regard for the health of your community." According to a 2022 Pew survey, 62% of white Evangelicals said they had gotten at least one COVID-19 injection. The survey did not include non-white Evangelicals or minority non-Evangelical Protestants. Another study conducted in 2020 found vaccine hesitancy among physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners and nurses was highest among black and Hispanic healthcare personnel at 75% and 51%, respectively, followed by white and Asian healthcare personnel at 44%. Politically, high-profile figures expressed similar skepticism toward any recommendation on a then-future COVID vaccine under the Trump administration. In July 2020, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg voiced concern over the potential impact of the vaccine on humans. "But I do just want to make sure that I share some caution on this [vaccine] because we just don't know the long-term side effects of basically modifying people's DNA and RNA basically the ability to produce those antibodies and whether that causes other mutations or other risks downstream," Zuckerberg said in a video leaked by Project Veritas. "So, there's work on both paths of vaccine development." During a 2020 debate with then-Vice President Mike Pence, Kamala Harris suggested she would only take the vaccine if medical experts and not Trump recommended doing so. "If the doctors tell us we should take [the vaccine], I'll be the first in line to take it, absolutely," said then-Senator Harris. "But if Donald Trump tells us that we should take it, I'm not taking it." The creators of the After Party also appear to share a similar distaste for Trump. During an episode of the "Good Faith" podcast, Chang and French bemoaned the former president's political grip on the Republican Party, calling the GOP and its registered voters "captive to the fear of Trump's power." "They are unwilling to stand up to him anyway and are just willing to go along with all of his lies, all of his violation of his boundaries, and all of a lot of fear," Chang added. "All of the qualities of evil we've just described." This is Russell Moore, David French and Curtis Changs on their movement known as the after party.They believe they have it right and everyone else is wrong. This is an anti Trump movement. These men are still bitter. Where is their outrage about Bidens policies? https://t.co/kOxLnuQafcpic.twitter.com/GXqfh8AgJX Terri Green (@TerriGreenUSA) December 8, 2023 Referring to what he called "the con" of conservative Christians supporting Trump as a "necessary evil," French said, "If you're a Christian believer, you're looking at things through the wrong lens where you're saying if the necessity is political triumph, if that's the necessity, then you're looking at the ministry of Jesus, at the ministry of Paul, at the ministry of Peter, as just failures, which can't be right." When asked about whether they are anti-Trump Christians, or so-called "Never Trumpers," an After Party spokesperson said in a statement to CP that the group's political views should not disqualify them or any other Christian "from talking about timeless biblical truths that transcends (sp) specific candidates." "A 'never Trump-er' can still teach timeless biblical truths, just like a Trump supporter can," the spokesperson added. "Applying the logic suggested in your question consistently would mean disqualifying a Trump supporting pastor like Robert Jeffress from teaching biblical truths. "We believe both Trump supporters and 'never Trump-ers' should be able to talk about Jesus' teachings that transcends specific candidates." A report published in First Things last month by Megan Basham found The After Party is funded by secular left foundations that promote abortion and LGBT issues, including the ecumenical One America Movement and the Hewlett Foundation, reportedly the second-largest private donor to Planned Parenthood. The After Party is also reportedly one of nearly three dozen beneficiaries of the New Pluralist project from Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, a nonprofit consulting firm with plans to invest $10 million to "address divisive forces." A bio for Chang lists him as a past winner of a Rockefeller Fellowship at Harvard University, his alma mater. On its website, Chang's Redeeming Babel acknowledges receiving funding from New Pluralists, the Hewlett Foundation and others but asserts that the organization "retains complete control over" the content featured in After Party curriculum. A statement on Redeeming Babel's FAQ page reads, "Regrettably, many faith-based organizations are reluctant to support projects at the intersection of Christianity and politics due to political polarization and divisions within the church even projects like The After Party which seek to heal those divisions." Home News Pastor Jack Hibbs: Theres a war on men, boys need to see biblical masculinity Despite society labeling masculinity "toxic" in what many call a "war on men," California Pastor Jack Hibbs told his congregation that what Christian men need to reflect, especially for their sons, is "biblical masculinity." Hibbs, who leads Calvary Chapel Chino Hills, recently preached the second part of a sermon series titled "The War of 2024," in which he examines the issues Christians will metaphorically fight over with the culture this year. "There's a war on men," Hibbs said during the sermon, saying that "one of the biggest battles raging in our culture" involves Satan directly attacking men. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe "The lie that is advancing today against men is something of this nature: men cannot be strong. That's rude, ugly and toxic," Hibbs lamented. "If you're the man, you can't be the leader anymore. Men can't lead." "Men are not allowed to be strong; men are not allowed to be the leader, and men cannot have an opinion anymore, not allowed. Whatever we say, it's the wrong thing. It's sexist; it's chauvinistic; it's racist." At one point, Hibbs directed his congregation to watch a PragerU video featuring conservative commentator Allie Beth Stuckey recommending that, to combat toxic male traits, men should be more masculine, not less. "When you try to make men more like women, you don't get less 'toxic masculinity,' you get more," she said. "Why? Because bad men don't become good when they stop being men; they become good when they stop being bad." "Aggression, violence, and unbridled ambition can't be eliminated from the male psyche; they can only be harnessed. And when they are harnessed, they are tools for good, not for harm." Stuckey further suggested that "the same masculine traits that bring destruction also defeat tyranny," "the traits that foster greed also build economies," and "the traits that drive men to take foolish risks also drive men to take heroic risks." "The growing problem in today's society isn't that men are too masculine; it's that they're not masculine enough. When men embrace their masculinity in a way that is healthy and productive, they are leaders, warriors and heroes," she added. Returning to his sermon, Hibbs said, "Kids must see biblical masculinity and biblical femininity while they're growing up," adding, "God created the family for a reason, and that's why Satan hates it. Children are the target in all the areas of life." Hibbs told the parents in attendance that if they have a 4-year-old boy who "accidentally puts on his mom's high heels," they should say to him, "Put your dad's boots on" instead. Hibbs added, "If you've got a little girl that's walking around wearing her dad's boots," she should instead be encouraged to try on her mother's high heels and walk around in them. "God says to the parent, 'train up the child in the way that they should go,'" said Hibbs, quoting from Proverbs 22:6. "You have a boy or do you have a girl? Then, in that direction, place these tools or these items or these things in their hands." "Groom them in the direction that they should go based upon God's Word because the enemy of your children is out to groom them their way. Someone's going to win this battle, ... and God would have it to be us." Home News Pastor placed on leave after allegedly pulling gun, threatening self-harm in drunken crash Jamie Steele, a Southern Baptist pastor from North Carolina who allegedly crashed his car while driving under the influence then threatened to harm himself during an armed standoff with local police, has been place on leave by his church. In a statement released last Friday on Facebook, East Taylorsville Baptist Church acknowledged the Jan. 24 incident involving their 53-year-old senior pastor which caused local schools to go into lockdown, WCNC Charlotte reported. We are aware of the events that occurred on January 24 in downtown Taylorsville that involved our Senior Pastor Jamie Steele, the church began in their statement. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe Our deacon board has met several times and is actively involved in monitoring this situation. At this point, Pastor Steele has been placed on a leave of absence until we have all information. A police report cited by the Hickory Record said police noticed the pastors white Toyota Tacoma truck was traveling west along West Main Avenue shortly before 1 p.m. on Jan. 24. The truck was noticed veering to the left, crossing a double-yellow line before it struck four utility poles near the intersection of West Main Avenue and Seventh Street SW. Two of the utility poles broke, leaving powerlines dangling across the road, forcing police to shut it down. Officers told WCNC that after noticing that Steele appeared impaired, they called in EMS workers from Alexander County to assess him after the crash. When the workers arrived at the scene and tried checking him for injuries, the pastor allegedly began waving a gun around which caused police to evacuate the area and call for backup. Police described the gun as a semiautomatic pistol, according to the Hickory Record. While I was looking at the power lines down, I noticed several first responders and the witnesses running away from the vehicle involved in the accident, Taylorsville Police Lt. Kevin Elder said in a release cited by the Hickory Record. I could hear (Alexander County Sheriffs Deputy) Caudle yelling on the radio; however, I could not make out what he was saying. I spoke with Adrian Foster who came up to me and he stated that the driver had just pulled out a gun and began to point it at the people around and put the gun to his head. Steele reportedly threatened to harm himself and fired one shot from inside the crashed truck, but no one was hurt. It took about one hour before the pastor surrendered to police and another six hours before the road was cleared. The pastor was charged with driving while impaired, reckless driving with wanton disregard, discharging a firearm in city limits, open container of alcohol, damage to property, carrying a concealed weapon, going armed to the terror of the public, driving left of center, exceeding safe speed and unsafe passing. East Taylorsville Baptist Church did not immediately respond when contacted by The Christian Post on Thursday. We are also aware that, as of February 2, numerous charges have been filed against Pastor Steele by the Taylorsville Police Department. All questions related to the charges should be directed to the Taylorsville Police Department, the church noted in their statement on Friday. Our church is continuing to pray for our pastor and his family during this time. Home News Pastor rendered unconscious after Christians ambushed, assaulted in India A group of Christians, including women, were physically assaulted by members of Hindutva organizations to the point where a pastor passed out and needed to be taken to the hospital. Hindutva is a religious nationalist philosophy that aspires to a Hindu nation. Mahesh Mahananda and several others, including women, were attacked on Jan. 21 at approximately 5:30 p.m. while they were returning from a lunch gathering at Shiv Prasad Mehtos residence in Vasudevpur village, Kunkuri in Jashpur district of Chhattisgarh, which falls within the jurisdiction of the Duldula police station. Speaking to The Wire, a member of the Christian group only known as Kishore claimed that they were ambushed by individuals brandishing sticks as they left Mehto's house. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe Kishore made the startling observation that these were the same people who had been actively taking part in protests outside the Ram temple. As we left Shivs house, they stopped us with sticks in hand. They were the same people who had been participating in Ram temple rallies regularly, he said. The attackers reportedly subjected the group to physical violence and harassed women who attempted to intervene. Pastor Mahananda was rendered unconscious by the attack, so his family rushed him to a nearby Samudayik Swasthya Kendra. For more medical care, he was then directed to Holy Cross Hospital in Kunkuri. Mehto is the main complaint in the First Information Report that the Christians submitted. A counter-FIR was also filed by the Hindutva organization against the Christians, with Naresh Kumar Yadav as the main complainant. While returning from a religious ceremony, the Hindutva group claimed that the Christians assaulted them and threw stones at them; the Christians refute this claim. The police registered the complaints of the Hindutva groups first against the Christians and the Christian complaint later, Sudhir Tirkey, a pastor and senior leader in the area, told Christian Today. The Christians were booked under section 294 (obscene acts or words in public), 506 (Punishment for criminal intimidation) and 323 (voluntarily causing hurt). The police booked the attackers under similar sections, said a media house. According to The Wire, there have been at least five more instances when Hindutva organizations have attacked pastors in the Jashpur region alone, proving that this was not a unique event. The Chhattisgarh Christian Forum documented another event in Kundra village on Jan. 21 where people broke into the home of a local pastor, cursed at him and put saffron flags in the ground, pointing to the situation getting worse. If the pastor didn't convert to Hinduism, he would face severe penalties. According to the data from the United Christian Forum (UCF), Chhattisgarh is among the states where the Christian community faces the greatest resistance and persecution. In 2023, as per UCF data, while Uttar Pradesh led the tally with 155 incidents against Christians, Chhattisgarh was close behind with 84. As per UCF statistics, Chhattisgarh trailed closely behind Uttar Pradesh with 84 attacks against Christians in 2023, while the former topped the list with 155. This article was originally published by Christian Today India. Home News Rob Schneider: 'Jesus only lets you stray so much' Comedian and former "Saturday Night Live" star Rob Schneider recently elaborated on how Christianity transformed his approach to forgiveness, saying, "Jesus will only let you stray so much." In an interview with CBN News posted to YouTube last week, Schneider, who announced last year that he had converted to Catholicism, shared his faith journey. "Jesus only lets you stray so much," Schneider said. "At a certain point, He grabbed me again and hugged me." Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe "There are other religions out there that say, 'Well, kill your enemy; hate your enemy' and there are 'infidels.' And we have a religion that says, 'Love your enemy, love thy neighbor as thyself love others.' What a beautiful way to go through life." The comedian referred to his Oct. 31 post that went viral of him apologizing for displaying any bitterness towards other people. In his apology, he mentioned how he was once upset at other performers for how they dealt with different problems amid the COVID-19 pandemic. "There were people that angered me," Schneider recounted in his interview with CBN. "I had to dig underneath what's that anger." Schneider said he has come to a newer understanding that has led him to practice more compassion, especially when dealing with those with more fears about the pandemic than he expressed. "If I am going to lead my life and be an example, as Christ compels us to do, then I have to do it," Schneider said. "Even if it hurts, even if it stretches how I used to feel and, once you forgive, the beautiful thing about forgiveness is it isn't the person, it's you. You end up feeling better." Schneider shared that from his teenage years, he had faith. But, he moved away from his faith as he got older. "I did like many Christians do stray," Schneider said. "But there was a continuing pull back, knowing where I needed to be and to be home." "And then [a] very, very strange confluence of things. I married a Catholic, and she was very patient with me, and she's been the greatest thing that's ever happened to me." Schneider said he had to endure trials and tribulations to bring him closer to God and renew his faith. "As Jesus does, He's does a little nudge, a little nudge, a little nudge," he said. "God could put His hand down and make everybody [love Him], but God wants us to come to Him of our own volition. That is the greatest gift." Since converting to Catholicism, Schneider said he also feels called to leave behind the type of comedy he has performed in the past and he doesn't care what Hollywood thinks about that decision. "I know I can't do the same stuff I used to do," Schneider told The Christian Post in an interview last year. "Not because I have anything against what I did; I did what I did, and I felt fine about it at the time." "I'm not going to judge myself. But I won't do the same stuff I've done. I don't know what I'm going to do. I want to come to it from a place of faith, a place of something good in my heart." Schneider added, "I don't know if I can tell dirty jokes anymore. I don't know if I can. I don't know if I'm going to. I have an act I'm doing now; I don't know if I'll do it again next year." "Just some of the bad words, I go, 'Maybe I don't want to say those words anymore.' I don't know. I also think it's important to not only talk to the converted but to bring people in, and the best form is to show by example," he continued. "People talk all the time; that doesn't mean anything. So I hope that me standing up for what I believe in God, family, country I'm OK with whatever comes my way, positive or negative. When you have faith, nothing can really rock you." A member of the Gage County Board of Supervisors hopes to retain his seat in this years election. The District 6 representative, Don Schuller, recently filed for reelection to the County Board. District 6 covers the general southeastern portion of Gage County, and includes Logan, Rockford, Blue Springs-Wymore, Barneston, Sherman, Island Grove, Liberty and a small portion of Filley townships. Schuller is seeking a second term, and said hes enjoyed serving in his first term. It's been gratifying, as well as an honor to serve as a county supervisor, he said. It clearly hasnt been without challenges, but I didnt expect it to be. Im confident about my service over the past three years and continue to make decisions based on facts and what's best for the entire county. Ive enjoyed serving and feel like I want to stay involved and promote economic development for the entire county and look for us to make progress. Schuller, a Democrat, said one of his top priorities if reelected is to make improvements to whats commonly called Virginia Road, a three-mile section of 162nd Road Schuller said has been neglected. I feel that's important for economic development in that area, he said. Its been 50 years since that project was done, but it wasnt completed. The last three miles havent been completed and it's important for the village of Virginia and the whole area in this part of the county. It's a main link and arterial road in southeast Gage County. Schuller said he works to keep the public informed, and writes a newsletter following each County Board meeting. In addition to serving on the County Board, Schuller has organized public meetings regarding alternative energy where guest speakers gave presentations. To date, Schuller is the only Democrat to file for the District 6 seat in the partisan race. Two Republicans have filed to challenge Schuller for the seat, Gene Radar Reedy and Rex Adams. Home News Supreme Court weighs if Colorado can ban Trump from 2024 ballot The U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments on Thursday surrounding the question of whether former President Donald Trump can be legitimately removed from Colorado's election ballot. The case of Donald Trump v. Norma Anderson et al. centers on whether Colorado has the right to ban Trump from the 2024 ballot based on his alleged involvement in the Jan. 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol riot, even though he has not been convicted in court. In December, the Colorado Supreme Court cited Section 3 of the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits individuals from holding office who had sworn an oath to defend the Constitution who had "engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same, or given aid or comfort to the enemies thereof." Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe Former Texas Solicitor General Jonathan Mitchell argued the case for Trump, telling the justices in his opening remarks that the 14th Amendment doesn't apply to Trump because he was "not an officer of the United States as that term is used throughout the Constitution." "'Officer of the United States' refers only to appointed officials, and it does not encompass elected individuals, such as the president or members of Congress," argued Mitchell. "Section 3 cannot be used to exclude a presidential candidate from the ballot even if that candidate is disqualified from serving as president under Section 3, because Congress can lift that disability after the candidate is elected, but before he takes office." Mitchell cited as authoritative an 1860s case surrounding Caesar Griffin, a man who argued that his murder conviction should be tossed because the judge who oversaw his case was a Confederate who had previously made an oath to support the Constitution as a Virginia state legislator. Chief Justice Salmon P. Chase ruled that "legislation by Congress is necessary" for the judge to be disqualified under the 14th Amendment, thus preventing the decision from being overturned. Justice Sonia Sotomayor was critical of Mitchell's argument that there is a difference between an officer and the office of president, saying that it was "a bit of a gerrymandered rule, isn't it? Designed to benefit your client." Justice Elena Kagan questioned how the reasoning of the amendment could be "that an insurrectionist cannot hold the whole panoply of offices in the United States, but we're perfectly fine with that insurrectionist being president?" Mitchell refused to label the Jan. 6 Capitol Riot an "insurrection," saying that while the events were "shameful, criminal, violent," they "did not qualify as insurrection, as that term is used in Section 3." Jason Murray argued on behalf of the Colorado voters wanting Trump removed from the ballot that Trump's actions on Jan. 6, 2021, fit the definition of an insurrection and thus barred him from holding office. "By engaging in insurrection against the Constitution, President Trump disqualified himself from public office," said Murray. "Section 3 uses deliberately broad language to cover all positions of federal power requiring an oath to the Constitution." Regarding the attempted distinction between "office under" and "officer of," Murray said the "two phrases are two sides of the same coin, referring to any federal office or to anyone who holds one." "Under Article 2 and the 10th Amendment, states have the power to ensure that their citizen's electoral votes are not wasted on a candidate who is constitutionally barred from holding office," he continued. During Murray's arguments, Chief Justice John Roberts and Kagan questioned whether states had the power to enforce the 14th Amendment and if this would interfere with the wishes of other states. Roberts asked Murray about what would hypothetically stop more conservative states from disqualifying President Joe Biden based on their own interpretations of what constituted insurrection. "There's a reason [that] has been dormant for 150 years, and it's because we haven't seen anything like Jan. 6 since Reconstruction," Murray replied. "Insurrection against the Constitution is something extraordinary." "It really requires a concerted group effort to resist through violence, not some ordinary application of state or federal law, but the functions mandated by the Constitution itself." Colorado Solicitor General Shannon Stevenson represented the state government, arguing that the state was within its rights to exercise authority over whether Trump could be on the ballot. When Justice Samuel Alito asked Stevenson about the possibility of other states removing candidates their leaders do not like from the ballot, she replied that "we have to have faith in our system." "That people will follow their election processes appropriately, that they will take realistic views of what insurrection is under the 14th Amendment," Stevenson added. "I don't think that this court should take those threats too seriously." In December, the Colorado Supreme Court ruled 4-3 that Trump cannot be placed on the ballot for the 2024 presidential election, citing his alleged incitement of the Capitol riot. "We do not reach these conclusions lightly. We are mindful of the magnitude and weight of the questions now before us," the per curiam opinion read. "We are likewise mindful of our solemn duty to apply the law, without fear or favor, and without being swayed by public reaction to the decisions that the law mandates we reach." Colorado Chief Justice Brian Boatwright authored a dissent, arguing in part that the court went beyond its scope when it concluded that Trump had engaged in insurrection. "Unlike qualifications such as age and place of birth, an application of Section Three requires courts to define complex terms, determine legislative intent from over 150 years ago, and make factual findings foreign to our election code," wrote Boatwright. "Dismissal is particularly appropriate here because the Electors brought their challenge without a determination from a proceeding (e.g., a prosecution for an insurrection-related offense) with more rigorous procedures to ensure adequate due process." Trump appealed the decision. Last month, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a miscellaneous order agreeing to hear oral arguments in the litigation. Trump has had a strong showing in the Republican primary season thus far, winning the Iowa caucus and the New Hampshire primary. Many of his Republican challengers have suspended their campaigns and endorsed him. Home News Ukrainian Church removes medieval Russian leader from official calendar The Orthodox Church of Ukraine has removed a medieval Russian leader and saint from its official calendar as Russia's invasion of the Eastern European nation nears its second anniversary. Last week, OCU leadership held a Holy Synod of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church at the Synodal Hall of the official residence of the Orthodox Church primate at the St. Michael's Golden Dome Cathedral in Kyiv. As part of the meeting agenda, the Holy Synod agreed to remove the day of memory for Prince Alexander of Novgorod, also known as Alexander Nevsky. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe A 13th-century Russian leader known for his military victories against the Germans and the Swedish and canonized a saint in the 1500s, Nevsky's feast day had been on Nov. 23. Instead, the Holy Synod moved to make Nov. 23 a day to commemorate the Rev. Alexander, the first abbot of the Nevsypushchy monastery during the 5th century. The move is not without its critics, as the website Orthochristian.com published a column denouncing the decision as part of an "ongoing effort to spiritually divide the historically united Ukrainian and Russian people." "It is not surprising that the Ukrainian government-sanctioned 'Church' would be allergic to St. Alexander Nevsky," read the column. "The great military commander defeated the Western forces who waged war against Rus' with the blessing of the Roman Pope, with the aim of bringing Rus' into the Western and Roman Catholic sphere of influence and domination. The defeat was decisive and kept Russia on its own civilizational course." The OCU officially launched in 2018 in response to the desires of many in Ukraine to have an Orthodox denomination independent of direct Russian influence, especially as Russia had annexed the Ukrainian-controlled Crimean Peninsula a few years earlier. The decision to form the new church came with the blessing of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, a prominent leader in worldwide Eastern Orthodox Christianity. The creation of the OCU and the Ecumenical Patriarchate's endorsement of it led the Russian Orthodox Church to announce in 2018 that it was severing ties with Constantinople. The removal of Nevsky is not the first measure taken by the OCU to distance itself from the Russian Orthodox Church, whose leader, Patriarch Kirill, has endorsed the invasion of Ukraine. Last year, the OCU and also the nation of Ukraine moved their observance of Christmas from the traditional Russian Orthodox date of Jan. 7 to the Western Christian date of Dec. 25. Sponsors of the Ukrainian legislation stated at the time that the new Christmas date helps Ukraine "abandon the Russian heritage of imposing the celebration of Christmas on January 7" and lets Ukrainians "live their own life with their own traditions (and) holidays." Home Opinion The true meaning of headship and head coverings for women In 1 Corinthians 11:2-16, the apostle Paul addresses the topic of head coverings for women, a subject that has sparked much debate, confusion and substandard interpretations throughout history. In order to truly understand Paul's meaning, my goal is to provide a proper exegesis and interpretation that upholds the purity of the text and lends itself to how we are to show unity and equality among men and women. Contrary to misconceptions, Paul's intention was not to demean women or diminish their role in the home or society. Instead, he addressed the issue of proper respect within marriage and worship. However, before delving into 11:2-16, turning back to the previous chapter is only appropriate to set the stage. In 10:31-33, Paul writes, "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God, just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, that they may be saved." Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe Before discussing the topics of "headship" and "head coverings," Paul establishes a fundamental principle to guide Christians in their daily lives. We are to honor God in everything we do and to love others as we share the Gospel with those who are perishing. Keeping this guiding principle in mind, let us try to understand what Paul meant in 11:2-16. From the context, it is clear that Paul is attempting to rectify the misuse of freedoms leading to division and inappropriate behavior. His primary concern is not about men and women (in general) but rather about the testimony of a husband and wife faithfully living out their marriage before God in church and society. In verse three, Paul writes, "But I want you to understand that the head of every man is Christ, the head of a wife is her husband, and the head of Christ is God." To understand the word "headship" used by Paul, we must understand its historical and cultural context. The Greek word is kephale, which translates as "head" but also carries broader meanings such as "authority" or "source." Paul's approach is intriguing because he refers to the relationship within the Triune Godhead before acknowledging the esteemed roles of a husband and wife. Paul does this to connect our relationships that ought to reflect the perfect unity shared with the Triune Godhead. Each Person of the Trinity is a subsistence of the same substance. Yet, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are distinct (not divided) in their functions (operational roles) in the economy of salvation. In 1 Corinthians 15:28, Paul elaborates on this very point, "When all things are subjected to him, then the Son himself will also be subjected to him who put all things in subjection under him, that God may be all in all." Similarly, Paul emphasizes the significance of headship within the framework of God's divine order in the context of marriage. Paul refers to husbands' and wives' unique roles and responsibilities, reflecting the unity and diversity within the Triune Godhead. He did not imply that headship means a husband ruling over his wife or suggest that qualitative differences between women indicate they are inherently inferior to men. In Ephesians 5:21-33, the apostle Paul emphasizes the sacrificial love that husbands should have towards their wives while highlighting the importance of wives voluntarily respecting their husbands. This passage explains that marriage is meant to exemplify Christ's relationship with his Church, where both husband and wife have distinct roles but are equal in value before God. Therefore, having a harmonious partnership where both spouses honor and support each other is essential. The second controversial verse from Paul is as stated: "For if a wife will not cover her head, then she should cut her hair short. but since it is disgraceful for a wife to cut off her hair or shave her head, let her cover her head" (11:5). To fully grasp the meaning and underlying principles behind head coverings in this passage, it is essential to explore cultural and historical contexts. It was not customary for Corinthian women to cover their heads as it was for Jewish women. Many of the upper-class Greek women would flaunt their hairstyles, causing a clash with less privileged women and Jews. In Paul's day, it was customary for women (in the Ancient Mediterranean) to cover their heads in public or among strangers as a symbolic representation of modesty and submission. In Gen. 24:65, Rebecca veiled (Hebrew tsaciph) herself in the presence of Isaac. By wearing a veil or covering their heads during worship or public gatherings, women demonstrated their acknowledgment of societal norms and their commitment to honor their husbands as leaders within their homes. If a Jewish woman revealed her long hair in public, she was either in mourning or she was being publicly humiliated as an accused adulteress. Additionally, if a woman took off her head covering (veil or scarf) in the worship service, it could be a sign or suggestion that she was withdrawing from her husband and "available." Because of that, if a wife were participating in church, she would keep her veil over her head to avoid people thinking several things: 1. she was abusing her freedom, 2. rejecting honor to God, and 3. disrespecting her husband by making a public gesture that she was promiscuous. Furthermore, when Paul was writing, temple prostitutes were known for wearing their hair very short and not covering their heads. Thus, giving weight for Paul to advise against adopting a similar appearance to avoid giving the wrong impression and causing others to stumble. It is important to understand that the topic of head coverings was related to cultural norms and not a command given by Paul for Christians today. The underlying principle behind the advice of wearing head coverings is to behave with dignity, avoiding actions that might lead to division or cause others to stumble. When we honor God and strive to do good for others, our witness is beyond reproach in marriage, family, and society, as Paul mentions in his overarching principle in 10:31-33. In light of these considerations, it becomes evident that Paul's teachings on headship and head coverings are rooted in promoting harmony within marriage rather than enforcing gender inequality. Although cultural practices may differ across different societies and periods, what remains crucial is the need for mutual respect and honoring one another in our relationships, particularly in marriage. By understanding these principles, we can appreciate the importance of head coverings and uphold equality and respect between spouses in accordance with biblical teachings. Conversion is needed now more than ever As historian Tom Holland has shown more clearly than anyone else, so many of the essentially good things in our culture derive from Christian vision. Asylum is one of those things. In the First Covenant or Old Testament, unlike the practices of the surrounding cultures, the essential humanity of people was recognised and protected. The Babylonians, Assyrians and Egyptians favoured the concept and practice of slavery - 'might was right'. Cultures that worshipped different gods saw people as expendable commodities; very much like both communism and fascism have done in our context. The God of Israel created a different anthropology. All human beings were made in his image. It provided the foundation for Christendom. So refugees were indeed welcomed in Israel. Jewish culture under the First Covenant provided some extraordinary touches of compassion that reflected the dignity and worth of humans at their most vulnerable. Not only were refugees not to be enslaved or abused, but there were cities of refuge for people fleeing the consequences of accidental manslaughter. And there was the year of the jubilee to save families from perpetual debt stretching without end down the generations. But all this was conditional. It was conditional on the keeping of the law and covenant. Only the whole covenant kept this vision from being abused or diluted. Fast track to today. Still, gratifyingly and surprisingly, our culture holds to this Judaeo-Christian vision that people are not expendable commodities, or meaningless components in the marketplace, but only just we may be the last generation. None of the competing philosophies share this view. Islam prioritises submission to Allah, reinforces group identity over the individual conscience, and punishes apostasy ruthlessly. Wokery, or as it is becoming 'woke-alitarianism', sees only the collective into which the individual is subsumed; it dis-allows forgiveness. The nationalistic right has long been swept off the board, but before it did, it also subjugated individuals to the collective of nationhood in its extreme iterations. It is entirely right and good that refugees have their humanity recognised by a Christian culture and be given a chance to find protection. But the whole process is not automatic and not value-free. For this to work there must be conditions that are observed. And in our own day, far from being observed they are being abused. What we face at the moment is the gap opening up between beliefs and values. The secular society of the late twentieth century liked the values of Christianity, but refused the beliefs from which they originated. The first and most obvious problem with asylum is that the form that ancient Israel practised required those being given state hospitality to conform to the religion and values of the host state. One can see why. If the nature and beliefs of the state are altered by the sheer number of incomers, the very concept of asylum is threatened by alternative value systems. The same thing applies today. Migration Watch has estimated that if net migration continues at the present record level of 606,000 a year, Britain's population will rise to between 83 and 87 million by 2046. This would represent an increase of more than 15 million in Britain's population equivalent to fifteen new cities the size of Birmingham. And very few of this 15 million will share either the beliefs or the values of modern Britain. Already the pressures of migration have changed the way we exercise freedom and the rights of the individual in this country. We are faced with the paradox that the culture of the very people for whom immigration has allowed entry to this country (as either political or economic refugees - our state makes no practical distinction) denies the same freedom to people like the teacher in Batley who was forced into hiding and given a new identity after showing a cartoon of the Prophet Muhammad in class. Or the Jewish MP for Finchley, Mike Freer, who is being forced out of Parliament and into a form of hiding from public life after repeated threats. We might ask who is going to ensure or provide 'asylum' in their own community and culture for either the Batley teacher or the Finchley MP? If our society had retained its belief in Christianity, and prioritised Christian ethics and values over progressive multi-culturalism, this contradiction might have been mitigated. Already we find that in practice certain kinds of asylum seekers are prioritised over others. During the Syrian refugee crisis the Home Office discriminated against Christian asylum seekers, allowing in only 2 per cent of Christians. This presumably means that the majority of the 98 per cent given asylum were Muslim. The implications of Islamic immigration are too obvious to need comment. One obvious consequence that will follow the current trajectory of government immigration, refugee and asylum practice is that the demographic balance of this country is going to be permanently and increasingly altered. This is likely to make the provision of human rights in our own society - rights that already elude the Batley teacher and Finchley MP - even more problematic. And this represents one more element consequent on the growing gap between values and belief that the repudiation or diminishment of Christianity in our society has created. While the outrage that followed the horrific attack by Abdul Shokoor Ezedi in Clapham was understandable, there is no agreement on who should be to blame for the situation (beyond Ezedi himself). Except that instead of examining the deeper cause of the values or belief gap, commentators have instead been looking for scapegoats and they seem to have found them in the Christian churches. The attempt to evangelise immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers is of course exactly the way to address the diminishment of Christian faith. We might also identify three types of Christian or ecclesial community who are reaching out to asylum seekers - Catholic, Baptist and Anglican. Both the Catholics and the Baptists (who tell us that they are engaging with over forty of the refugees on the Bibi Stockholm) take membership of the Church very seriously. Inevitably the culture of an established church where the fluidity of membership is a characteristic of the Church is going to make it much more difficult to oversee the post-conversion commitment. Additionally the interest in refuges in the liberal churches is often more politically motivated than spiritually. Perhaps all that can be concluded at this point is that political motivation will do nothing to help change or ameliorate the growing gap between Christian belief and values. The real failure demonstrated by the 'bogus conversion phenomenon' is that of the secular authorities. They are the ones who introduced the category of religion as a basis for seeking refuge with no idea of how to evaluate it. It is almost beyond belief that the asylum tribunal ignored Ezidi's conviction for two sexual assaults in Newcastle, and chose to grant his application on the basis of what turns out to be a fake conversion. It should not need saying that if Ezidi had really encountered the love of Christ, the woman and children he took revenge on would have been permanently protected from his rage and revenge. Perhaps the churches in this country might be able to find the confidence not just to defend themselves against the charges of naivety in their dealing with asylum seekers, but also to remind the rest of our society that if you want a community characterised by good neighbours, love of the stranger, the honouring of the rule of law, protection of conscience, the treasuring of the individual, and in this case particularly, the practice of forgiveness and reconciliation, it can be found through conversion to Christ. Events in and around the Billings area? They're back! The details you need to know? All right here! Souper Bowl Just in time for the "Big Game" (hey, we're just trying to not get sued here), Angela's Piazza, Billings' women's drop-in shelter, is back with their 19th annual Souper Bowl fundraiser on Friday, Feb. 9. With $40, which goes directly to Angela's programs, you get a bowl of soup from a local restaurant, as well as a piece of art (bowl, plate, mug, last year a certain arts reporter got a pour-over coffee dripper made of clay) you can take home. Event takes place at American Lutheran Church from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 4 to 6:30 p.m. 'The Taylor Party' at the Pub Station On Friday, Taylor Swift is going to be in Billings! Or, well, sort of. The real Taylor is in Japan this weekend (before speedily returning stateside for Sunday's Super Bowl), but "The Taylor Party" dance party is at the Pub Station on Friday, Feb. 9 at 9 p.m. They claim to be the "original Taylor Swift inspired dance party" because not only is Taylor Swift now so famous she's got tribute dance parties, she's now so famous she's got multiple, apparently fueding tribute dance parties. Tickets are $15 - $25 at thepubstation.com. Shakespeare, Seattle and 'Sorcerer' at the Babcock and Art House The Babcock has never been more back than it is at this exact moment. Start out on Friday and Saturday with three screenings of "10 Things I Hate About You." The 1999 high school classic, which is a loose retelling of William Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew," stars a whole bunch of people who went on to be insanely famous, including Julia Stiles, Heath Ledger, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Gabriel Union and the true MVP of "Oppenheimer" David Krumholtz. Check it out on Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. The rom-com vibes continue with with next Hanks/Ryan film, "Sleepless in Seattle" on Wednesday at 7 p.m. Today, the movie is probably the one Nora Ephron is best remembered for, but she wasn't originally slated to direct. Rather, the movie was supposed to be helmed by Nick Castle, best known for playing Michael Meyers in "Halloween" (not a joke). Castle left the movie after he objected to Ephron's script, which swapped sentimentality for sharp comedy. And of course it's still "Freakin' Friedkin February," and boy is there a doozy showing this week. On Thursday at 7 p.m. you can catch "Sorcerer." Friedkin's 1977 film, which stars Roy Scheider as a man moving a precarious load of dynamite across South America, bombed horribly upon its release, mostly because said release was about a month after "Star Wars" premiered and took over the world. But in the years since, it's become a cult favorite, maybe the most beloved of all of Friedkin's work. Over at Art House Cinema and Pub, they're still showing the Billings-made Vietnam War documentary "Return," and the nightmarish (and excellent) "The Zone of Interest." Also, this week only, they're bringing back Celine Song's Oscar nominated romantic drama "Past Lives," which is not only very good, it's one of the saddest movies ever released by a major studio. Who could resist? Get showtimes at arthousebillings.com. The Billings Symphony's big week Those looking for orchestral excellence in Billings this week needn't look far. The Billings Symphony has something happening almost every day. It all starts at 3:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 9, at the Cisel Recital Hall at MSUB, where visiting vocalists Joseph Parrish (baritone) and Suzanne Ramo (soprano) will give a free master clinic. Then at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 10, at the Alberta Bair, the Billings Symphony is performing Carl Maria von Weber's "Hungarian Andante and Rondo" and Johannes Brahms' "A German Requiem." That Brahms piece is the real showstopper here he composed it between 1865 and 1868 after being inspired by the deaths of his mother and his close friend, fellow composer Robert Schumann. The Symphony's version will feature guest musicians including Ramo, Parrish and former Symphony intern and Senior grad Julien Rollins on bassoon. Tickets for the Saturday performance are $47 - $77 at albertabairtheater.org, but if you want to save a few bucks, there's a dress rehearsal at 7 p.m. on Friday. Tickets for that are $25, also at albertabairtheater.org. They've got a free show on Wednesday, Feb. 14, but the catch is that if you want to partake, you'll need to drive a little bit. Johnny Gandelsman, a violinist who is a member of the Silkroad Ensemble and Brooklyn Rider, is performing at the Sweet Grass Arts Theater in Big Timber at 6:30 p.m. Good news for Billings folks is that Gandelsman is also at the Billings Depot at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 15. He'll be playing pieces from his record "This is America," a triple album he released in 2022. The record, which features Gandelsman reflecting on the American experience with a variety of other young composers, was so buzzy it prompted Pitchfork to review classical music (they gave it a 7.5). Tickets are $25 - $42 at billingssymphony.org. NOISE / SOUND / SILENCE at Kirks' Grocery Billings' premier DIY venue is stretching further than they ever have before (well, except for that 24-hour party) on Sunday, Feb. 11. They're calling it a "Sunday Experimental Matinee," and from noon to 7 p.m., a truly loaded lineup will take the stage. Show includes sets from Panic Boner, Jon Lodge, PLVMES, Fish Fight Factory, Happy Belated Birthday, Firewatch, Malignant Neoplasm, Ashes Jessen and The Defiant, along with snacks (snax, if you prefer the Kirks' parlance) from Chef Ash. $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Honorable mentions New at NOVA this week is "The Most Epic Birthday Party Ever," a new musical for kids 7-14. They're performing on Feb. 9, 10, 11 and 16, 17, 18. Friday and Saturday performances are at 7:30 p.m., Sunday matinees are 2 p.m. Tickets ($10-$21) are at novabillings.org. Kirks' Grocery's pay-what-you-can Kitchen Party is back from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday. Food by Ash Woodward of Rose Hollow Catering, and beats from DJ Dixon Moonstomper. If you're out and about on Friday, swing by Thirsty Street for tunes from J5 & the Montes. Music starts at 7 p.m., $10 tickets at thirstystreet.com. Kinetoscope Screendance Film Festival, Montana's biggest cinematic dance festival, is coming to the Art House Cinema and Pub on Saturday, Feb. 10 and Sunday, Feb. 11. The festival is a collection of short dance films curated by Missoula's Bare Bait Dance. There are showings at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday, and $12 tickets are at arthousebillings.com/kinetoscope. Kenny Jacobs is bringing the New Exciting Thing (NE Thing) show to Kirks' on Saturday, Feb. 10 at 7 p.m. $10 in advance, $12 at the door. A pair of Bozeman rock bands, Icarus and Brother Venus, are at Thirsty Street on Saturday at 8 p.m. No cover. BSCI is holding a dance at the Columbia Club on Wednesday, Feb. 14 from 7 to 10 p.m. $5 at the door, includes raffle and door prizes. Mary Serbe, of Kirks' Grocery, and Jessica Kay Ruhle, the YAM's Executive Director, are teaming up for a "Collecting 101" discussion at the YAM on Tuesday, Feb. 13 at 5:30 p.m. Name suggests that it might be about action figures, but turns out the talk will mostly be about art collecting. Also at the YAM, the Bozeman artist Kathryn Schmidt is giving an artist talk on Thursday, Feb. 15 at 5:30 p.m. Come early and you can check out the work she's got in the upcoming YAM Art Auction. We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Go to form Jason Thompson, outgoing board chairman of the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce, pictured speaking in Brampton in May of 2022, is an advocate for the inclusion of Indigenous people in business. A Billings woman who admitted to trafficking methamphetamine and fentanyl pills was sentenced Thursday to 10 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. The defendant, Shaynee Renee Gibbs, 45, pleaded guilty in October 2023 to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said. U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. In November 2022, Laurel Police Department officers conducted a traffic stop of a Cadillac occupied by Gibbs and co-defendant Aaron Meeks. In an initial search of the vehicle, officers located a firearm and drug paraphernalia, according to court documents. Later, law enforcement executed a search warrant on the vehicle and a package Gibbs and Meeks had said they were awaiting. The package contained approximately 3.8 pounds of meth and fentanyl. In the Cadillac, agents located fentanyl pills, a 9mm pistol, a 9mm rifle, multiple rounds of ammunition and $12,461 in cash, according to court documents. Meeks told law enforcement that he and Gibbs were picking up drug packages of meth and fentanyl coming from Arizona for co-defendant Cynthia Pruett. Gibbs told law enforcement that Pruett was distributing large quantities of meth and fentanyl and storing drugs at a storage unit. Pruett was sentenced previously to 15 years and three months in prison for her conviction in the case. Meeks and a third co-defendant, Jacob Taylor West, are pending sentencing for their convictions in the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin M. Rubich prosecuted the case. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Billings Police Department, U.S. Border Patrol, Laurel Police Department, Yellowstone County Sheriffs Office and Montana Highway Patrol conducted the investigation. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make neighborhoods safe. Anunt concurs pentru post vacant Institutia Publica Centrul de Consiliere Agricola si Rurala (CCAR) este in cautare de un profesionist dinamic si dedicat, pentru pozitia de Sef/a de Sectie la sectia Inovare si transfer de cunostinte in cadrul institutie Primeste notificari pe email Nota bene: Adresele email cu extensia .ru nu sunt acceptate. Contractare si Achizitie Bunuri Anunturi de Angajare Granturi - Finantari Burse de studiu Stagii Profesionale Oportunitati de voluntariat Toate Articolele Nearly 30 people were given somber advice Thursday on what to do should they ever become involved with an active shooter, a situation in which seconds count and quick decisions matter. The nearly 90-minute seminar was offered through the Montana Jewish Project in Helena, with the goal of helping people improve public safety in troubling times. Phil Niedringhaus, regional director with Secure Community Network, a nonprofit that serves as the official safety and security organization of the Jewish community in North America, offered tools for people to use in reacting to an active shooter. He said according to FBI statistics, the 37 active shooter incidents in 2017 have grown to 360 by 2023. The FBI defines an active shooter as one or more people engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a populated area. Its on the news everyday, Niedringhaus said. Niedringhaus, who spent 29 years with the FBI (with some of that time in Montana) in his 36 years of law enforcement, called it training that everyone should get. He told people the best way to deal with a violent situation is to never be in a violent situation. Niedringhaus urged people to locate exits upon entering a room. Figure out how to leave wherever you are at, he said, noting earlier that people should plan for two to six minutes for law enforcement to arrive. But he said that response time would likely be shorter -- three to four minutes -- in Helena, adding that several area agencies would respond as well. He offered a mantra of "Run, hide, fight." Think of places where you can hide or what weapon you can use to fight, Niedringhaus said. Beyond traditional weapons, he mentioned items such as canes, bottles, umbrellas, fire extinguishers, pens and belts. Those who find a room to hide in should be sure to lock and barricade the door. He told audience members to commit to action and show a readiness and willingness to do something. And he told people to run and to not lie still on the floor, adding that those are the people who are often killed. And if you find yourself running toward the shooter, change directions. Niedringhaus said people should plan for what they would do in such situations. There are two kinds of people in the world, he noted, the trained and untrained. Good training speeds up reaction time, he said. Niedringhaus said fighting is also a response. "Because we are never going to give up," he said, adding the only people who have to fight fair are law enforcement. "Everybody else there is no rules. Dirty wins," Niedringhaus said. And he said there was merit in joining in on attacking the shooter. All of you working together can get through almost anything, he said. Its a team sport. Give me 30 seconds of uncontrolled violence, Niedringhaus said. Among those attending was the Rev. Val Colenso, a Methodist pastor who has churches in Boulder and Clancy. I thought it was excellent, she said. It really gave good information, and not just for a church setting. Colenso said it was important to be situationally aware, adding her first instinct had been to lay down. She said the advice was good, no matter the location or size of the church. Anymore, there is no church or business that is safe. Niedringhaus said he has taught other seminars recently in Missoula and Great Falls and said he would soon be in Bozeman. For more information on Secure Community Network, go to https://www.securecommunitynetwork.org/. To request training from SCN, go to: training@securecommunitynetwork.org. Salariul lunar net: 25000 MDL - 31000 MDL Asigurarea medicala internationala 100% acoperire To apply please follow the link/Pentru a aplica, va rugam sa adresati link-ul: Apply 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. Moldova is part of the EUs European Neighborhood Policy (ENP) and in the Eastern Partnership framework, which aims at strengthening individual and regional relationships between the EU and countries in its neighborhood. Moldova is also part of the Energy Community Treaty since 2010 and has signed the Association Agreement with EU in June 2014, including the DCFTA which entered into force in 2016. As a follow-up, Moldova is required to ensure transposition of the EU acquis Communautaire, which underpins the EU energy legislation on electricity, gas, oil, renewables, energy efficiency and environment. The country has synchronized its electricity network with the ENTSO-E to connect to European electricity market. Considering the ongoing energy crisis, the energy sector is one of the top priorities for the Government and it is addressed in Governments Plans and a number of policy documents, laws and regulations which outlined the need to undertake more actions towards a green and just energy transition of the Republic of Moldova. In accordance to the existing strategic planning documents, one of main priorities of the Government is to diversify the energy mix with more renewable energy, which is also fully in line with commitments under the EU Clean Energy for all Europeans package. Achieving this goal will require significant investment in the medium and long term, but also the countrys ability to attract and absorb the funds. The development of renewables, such as wind and solar, will also depend on improving the balancing capabilities of the Moldovan power system and its integration with neighboring countries. In this regard the EU and Moldova stressed the importance of resilience against any potential efforts by third parties to use energy as a geopolitical lever. The EU has urged Moldova to ensure that the energy sector reform demonstrates full respect of the Energy Community acquis and is in line with the EU Third Energy Package. The EU side confirmed its support to the objective of Moldova for integration into the EU energy system and market, an important step being the recent synchronization of its electricity network with the Continental European Network (CEN). Recognizing the importance of a just and green energy transition in addressing the root causes of the ongoing crisis, the Accelerating a Just Energy Transition in the Republic of Moldova portfolio of interventions has emerged - co-designed with the Government and other representatives of the energy system to ensure its relevance and effectiveness. Through this Portfolio of interventions, the Government of Moldova will be further assisted to tackle the current energy crisis and energy poverty, and addressing prioritized systemic elements in the energy sector to cope with potential future energy crisis. The Accelerating a Just Energy Transition in Republic of Moldova has the following five key areas of intervention: Accelerate Energy Diversification and Efficiency: By supporting the modernization of infrastructure, buildings, and the grid, the Project aims to increase access to renewable energy sources, promote energy efficiency, and encourage investment in renewable energy and innovative technologies. Decarbonizing Industries and Economic Sectors: The Project seeks to drive the decarbonization of various economic sectors such as construction, transportation, agriculture, and the private sector. It aims to promote sustainable practices, share green business models, and develop vocational skills for the green energy sector to create equitable employment opportunities and support the transition to a low-carbon economy. Foster Sustainable Consumption Patterns: Through comprehensive public awareness campaigns and educational materials, the Project aims to deepen understanding of energy efficiency and renewable energy among community members, business leaders, and government agencies. It strives to promote behaviour change towards sustainable energy practices, particularly among vulnerable populations. Strengthen Inclusive Energy Governance: The Project recognizes the importance of inclusive energy governance at both the national and local levels. It aims to strengthen the capacity of relevant institutions and stakeholders to effectively govern and manage the energy sector. By promoting transparency, accountability, and participation, the Project seeks to ensure that decision-making processes related to energy transition are inclusive, empowering all segments of society, including marginalized groups. Addressing Energy Vulnerability and Promoting Resilience: One of the Project 's primary focus is to address energy vulnerability and promote resilience among households and businesses. It will provide further support to the Government in improving and implementing compensation mechanisms, including the established an on-bill compensation mechanism targeting the households by level of vulnerability. This intervention aims to provide immediate relief to energy-poor households and the private sector, while also fostering long-term energy resilience and efficiency. The Project places a strong emphasis on meeting the energy needs of vulnerable groups, prioritizing affordability, reliability, and sustainability. To this end, it will explore conceptualisation of decentralized energy solutions, off-grid options, and harness the role of energy access in conflict and disaster recovery efforts, livelihoods, and social inclusion. The implementation period: 2023-2027. Duties and Responsibilities Assist in efficient delivery of the projects, focusing on achievement of the following results: Undertake administrative, logistical, travel, procurement, financial and asset management tasks in full compliance with UNDP rules, regulations and policies. Provide support to procure goods and services required by the projects, in liaison with the relevant staff and units of UNDP Country Office. Provide administrative support in arranging Projects related meetings when needed. Participate in the preparation of work plans, operation plans and procurement plans and periodical reviews thereof. Provide support in quality control of Projects activities, including assessing impact and effectiveness, tracking outputs and results, and ensure timely and efficient delivery. Maintain an appropriate filing system and documenting the implementation to enable further operational and financial closure of the projects. Provide support in regular monitoring and data collection of Projects activities in accordance with work plan and procurement plan. Provide general secretarial and administrative assistance to the projects in close liaison with UNDP teams, other UN agencies. Ensure administration and implementation support of operational strategies, adapt processes and procedures focusing on achievement of the following results: Full compliance with respective UNDP and donor rules, regulations, and policies of financial activities, financial recording/reporting system and follow-up on audit recommendations. Implementation of effective internal controls, proper functioning of a client-oriented financial resources management system. Personal initiative to perform daily work timely, efficiently, and in compliance with established rules and plans. Provide financial support to the Projects, focusing on achievement of the following results: Assist Projects team in drafting Project progress reports with financial data. Assist projects management in performing budget cycle: planning, preparation, revisions, and budget execution. Provide assistance to partner agencies involved in Projects activities, performing and monitoring financial aspects to ensure compliance with budgeted costs in line with established policies and procedures. Monitor Projects expenditures, ensuring that no expenditure is incurred before it has been authorized. Perform preparatory work for mandatory and general budget revisions, annual physical inventory, auditing; and assist external evaluators in fulfilling their mission. Ensure that all Projects financial activities are carried out on schedule and within budget to achieve the project outputs. Ensure timely submission of financial reports to the UNDP Country Office to verify the accuracy of such reports for the national partner or donor. Perform all other financial related duties, upon request. Participate in the preparation of work plans, operation plans and procurement plans and periodical reviews thereof. Provides support in the creation of projects in ERP, draft/entry of project budgets, draft required budget revisions, revision of project award and project status, determination of unutilized funds, support with operational and financial closure of projects, if necessary. Provide operations support to the Project, focusing on achievement of the following results: Ensure that UNDP procurement rules are followed during procurement activities that are carried out by the project and maintain responsibility for the inventory of the project assets. Organization of procurement processes including preparation of RFQs, ITBs or RFPs documents, receipt of quotations, bids or proposals, their preliminary evaluation, note-to-files and justifications in cooperation with the UNDP Operations Unit. Coordination of surveys, DSA, travel agencies, organization of common services and other administrative surveys. Prepare and timely submit travel documents in accordance with UNDP requirements. Support with protocol matters, registration of staff, coordination with national partners on space and other administrative matters. Compile, organize and file information and documents for reference and use by team members. Preparation of documents set for vendor creation. Ensure proper control of the supporting documents for payments. Prepare and timely submit payment requests with proper support documentation to the UNDP Country Office. Provide financial monitoring over Project commitments and expenditures and assist the Project Manager in assuring proper Project delivery. Keep regular contact with Project experts and consultants to inform them about the Joint Project details and changes. Control the usage and proper accounting of non-expendable equipment (record keeping, drawing up regular inventories), inventories and materials. Provide necessary administrative, financial and logistical support to the Project events, including among other workshops, seminars, working meetings and visits of national and international delegations (visa support, transportation, hotel accommodation etc.). Keep files of Project documents and expert reports and ensure general circulation of documents for knowledge management and sharing. Act on telephone inquiries, fax, post and e-mail transmissions, and coordinate appointments. Provide translation of documents for/to English/Russian/Belarusian as required. Draft Project correspondence and documents; finalize correspondence of administrative and financial nature; edit reports and other documents for correctness of form and content as required. Provides support to the Project Manager in preparing and reviewing the Projects procurement reports. Coordinates with relevant UNDP units issuance of Purchase orders and contracts as well as supplier profile creation in ERP, prepares requisitions and follows the Purchase order processing. Preparation of inventory reports, if any. Assist in collection, preparation and submission of support documents for NPSA contracts extensions. Facilitation of knowledge building and knowledge sharing within the Project, related to POPP application: Participates in trainings for the operations/projects staff on HR, Finance, Programme and Operations, Policies and Procedures, and organizes briefings for the project staff where necessary on new internal procedures. When necessary, provides guidance to project staff in business processes, administrative and other requirements, and procedures. Sound contribution to knowledge networks and communities of practice. Synthesis of lessons learnt and best practices in projects. The incumbent performs other duties within their functional profile as deemed necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organization. Institutional Arrangement The Project Associate will execute the duties and responsibilities outlined above under the guidance and supervision of the Project Manager. Competencies Core competencies Achieve Results: LEVEL 1: Plans and monitors own work, pays attention to details, delivers quality work by deadline. Plans and monitors own work, pays attention to details, delivers quality work by deadline. Think Innovatively: LEVEL 1: Open to creative ideas/known risks, is pragmatic problem solver, makes improvements. Open to creative ideas/known risks, is pragmatic problem solver, makes improvements. Learn Continuously: LEVEL 1: Open minded and curious, shares knowledge, learns from mistakes, asks for feedback. Open minded and curious, shares knowledge, learns from mistakes, asks for feedback. Adapt with Agility: LEVEL 1: Adapts to change, constructively handles ambiguity/uncertainty, is flexible. Adapts to change, constructively handles ambiguity/uncertainty, is flexible. Act with Determination: LEVEL 1: Shows drive and motivation, able to deliver calmly in face of adversity, confident. Shows drive and motivation, able to deliver calmly in face of adversity, confident. Engage and Partner: LEVEL 1: Demonstrates compassion/understanding towards others, forms positive relationships. Demonstrates compassion/understanding towards others, forms positive relationships. Enable Diversity and Inclusion: LEVEL 1: Appreciate/respect differences, aware of unconscious bias, confront discrimination. Cross Functional and Technical competencies: Business Management-Operations Management Ability to effectively plan, organize and oversee the organizations business processes in order to convert its assets into the best results in the most efficient manner. Knowledge of relevant concepts and mechanisms. Business Development-Knowledge Generation Ability to research and turn information into useful knowledge relevant for content, or responsive to a stated need. Partnership Management-Relationship management Ability to engage with a wide range of public and private partners, build, sustain and/or strengthen working relations, trust, and mutual understanding. Finance -Budget management Ability to support budgetary aspects of work planning process, drawing and management of team budgets. Procurement-Procurement Management The ability to acquire goods, services or works from an outside external source. Administration & Operations-Assets management Knowledge of policy & procedures on PP&E; ability to prepare financial statements on PP&E; maintain Asset Management Module in Quantum, Asset Dashboard; develop supporting tools for assets certification and further enhancements for AM module; design and run training programs, etc. on assets management and assets recording; run AP-AM interface; perform AP-AM-GL reconciliation; perform analytical review of AM reports and asset information to ensure completeness and accuracy of asset information. Administration & Operations-Documents and records management Overall document (hard or electronic) management; registry and retention policy including storing and archiving. Required Skills and Experience Education: Secondary education is required. Bachelors degree in economics, finance, business or public administration or related field will be given due consideration but is not a requirement. Experience: Minimum 7 years (with Secondary education) or 4 years (with Bachelor's' degree) of relevant work experience in the field of administrative work, management support, accounting, finance at national or international level. Languages: Fluency in English and Romanian is required. Knowledge of one or more minority languages relevant for Moldova, including Russian, Romani, Gagauzian, Bulgarian, Ukrainian and sign language,will be an asset. Required skills: Experience in the usage of computers and office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc.) and advance knowledge of spreadsheet and database packages, advance knowledge of automated procurement systems, experience in handling of web-based management systems. Experience in development assistance or related work for a donor organization, consulting company, or NGO involving procurement processes. Desired skills: Demonstrated experience of working in a multicultural work environment will be an asset. Demonstrated experience of working for international organization related to project implementation and previous experience managing UNDP projects will be an asset. Experience in budgetary planning processes quality assurance and project activities coordination will be an asset. Knowledge of ERP software system used by UNDP will be an asset. Demonstrated experience in Project administration will be an asset. Demonstrated experience in contract administration will be an asset. Demonstrated experience to communicate well and interact with key partners in project implementation and delivery will be an asset. Demonstrated experience in project-level or state/national-level monitoring and evaluation system implementation will be an asset. The following documents shall be required from the applicants: Personal CV or P11 , indicating all past positions held and their main underlying functions, their durations (month/year), the qualifications, as well as the contact details (email and telephone number) of the Candidate, and at least three (3) the most recent professional references of previous supervisors. References may also include peers. , indicating all past positions held and their main underlying functions, their durations (month/year), the qualifications, as well as the contact details (email and telephone number) of the Candidate, and at least three (3) the most recent professional references of previous supervisors. References may also include peers. A cover letter (maximum length: 1 page) indicating why the candidate considers him-/herself to be suitable for the position. Managers may ask (ad hoc) for any other materials relevant to pre-assessing the relevance of their experience, such as reports, presentations, publications, campaigns or other materials. 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 UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, sexual harassment, and abuse of authority. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles. UNDP is an equal opportunity and inclusive employer that does not discriminate based on race, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, age, language, social origin or other status. Scam warning The United Nations does not charge any application, processing, training, interviewing, testing or other fee in connection with the application or recruitment process. Should you receive a solicitation for the payment of a fee, please disregard it. Furthermore, please note that emblems, logos, names and addresses are easily copied and reproduced. Therefore, you are advised to apply particular care when submitting personal information on the web. The U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday made it easier for financial sector whistleblowers to win lawsuits accusing companies of unlawfully firing them as retaliation for disclosing wrongdoing, rejecting a bid by Switzerlands UBS Group to impose a higher bar. The unanimous decision by the justices reinstated a $1.7 million jury verdict for former UBS bond strategist Trevor Murray, who has accused the company of firing him in retaliation for refusing to publish misleading research reports and complaining about being pressured to do so. A lower court had thrown out the jury verdict. UBS had wanted the Supreme Court to require plaintiffs in whistleblower lawsuits to prove a companys retaliatory motives, a difficult task. UBS has said Murray was fired as part of a cost-cutting campaign that eliminated thousands of jobs, not because of his complaints. A jury in federal court in Manhattan sided with Murray in 2020, and U.S. District Judge Katherine Polk Failla, who presided over the trial, rejected a bid by UBS to set aside the verdict. But the New York-based 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, in overturning the verdict in 2022, ruled that the jury should have been instructed by the trial judge that in order to hold UBS liable under a 2002 federal law called the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, Murray had to prove that the company had acted with retaliatory intent. Sarbanes-Oxley created enhanced accounting standards for publicly traded U.S. companies after a series of accounting scandals, along with new legal protections for employees who report illegal conduct. Named after its bipartisan sponsors Democratic U.S. Senator Paul Sarbanes and Republican U.S. Representative Michael Oxley it was intended to help protect investors from fraudulent corporate financial reporting. The 2nd Circuit ruling had created a split with at least two other federal appeals courts that decided that the lack of intent can be raised as a defense in a Sarbanes-Oxley case, but must be proven by the defendant. Murray, who worked in UBSs mortgage securitization unit, accused UBS officials of pressuring him to issue skewed and bullish research on commercial mortgage-backed securities in order to support the banks trading and underwriting operations. He has said he was fired in 2012 about two months after complaining to supervisors and despite receiving excellent performance reviews. President Joe Bidens administration had backed Murray in the appeal. The Supreme Court heard arguments in the case in October. UBS was represented by Eugene Scalia of the firm Gibson Dunn & Crutcher, the son of late Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia and a former U.S. labor secretary, who was making his first appearance before the Supreme Court. CLEVELAND, Ohio A Super Bowl commercial for Uber Eats is causing controversy even before Sundays game because of a joke it makes about peanut allergies. The one-minute-long commercial, which features stars such as Jennifer Aniston, David Schwimmer, Usher, David and Victoria Beckham, and Jelly Roll, has a theme on forgetfulness. In order to remember services from Uber Eats, the stars are shown forgetting ridiculous things. For example, Aniston doesnt recognize Schwimmer, her co-star on Friends for more than 10 years, while Jelly Roll doesnt remember getting his face tattooed. But its a segment showing a man holding a jar of peanut butter while apparently having a serious reaction to it that has people upset. Theres peanuts in peanut butter? the man says as he looks at the label on the jar. Oh, its the primary ingredient. Several people and groups dont think peanut allergies are a laughing matter. Food Allergy Canada sent a letter to Uber Eats asking that the segment be edited out before it airs during Sundays game. While the commercial alienates individuals with food allergy, the real harm is reducing the perception of its seriousness in the broader community and reinforcing that its OK to make fun of this potentially life-threatening condition, the letter says. The fact that this is a Super Bowl commercial with exponential reach makes this even more harmful, as research shows that depicting medical conditions in a comical way reduces its perceived seriousness. The nonprofit group Food Allergy and Research Education also released a statement condemning the commercial. ... We were surprised and disappointed to see that Uber Eats would use the disease of life-threatening food allergy as humor in its new Super Bowl commercial, the statement says. The suffering of over 33 million Americans who live with life-threatening food allergy is no joke. The National Library of Medicince says just under 2% of Americans are allergic to peanuts, which is says is not an inconsequential number. The most severe response, anaphylaxis, can cause symptoms of swelling, hives, throat tightening, breathing difficulties, lowered blood pressure, and shock, the agency says. The Centers for Disease Control says deaths from food allergies are rare but there has been an increase in emergency room visits and hospitalizations in recent years. Reports say Uber Eats had not responded to requests for comment on the controversy. After a slight delay to allow for more discussion, an ordinance that would make landlords responsible for their tenants unpaid utility bills survived its second reading but not without a few hurdles. The majority of Casper City Council voted for the ordinance. Vice Mayor Lisa Engebretsen abstained from the vote and conversation beforehand. Councilor Jai-Ayla Sutherland said at a later point during the meeting that she was going to abstain from voting, but had been trying to catch up with what was being said and therefore missed the chance to do so. Councilors Kyle Gamroth and Amber Pollock both voted no. It was Gamroth who also introduced an amendment to his fellow councilors that would have struck the section of the amendment (the proposed ordinance is itself an amendment to Chapter 13.03 of the Casper Municipal Code) that passes the responsibility of paying for delinquent bills onto the landlord and/or property owner. If the property owner refuses to pay, the section says, the city will shut off utilities at that property. Pollock was the only other councilor who voted for the amendment. The proposed ordinance has invited a host of debates, both within City Council and amongst community members. Introduced at Councils first meeting in January, it was tabled before its second reading, which was supposed to be on Jan. 16, so that city staff could take questions from councilors about the legitimacy, legality and general ins-and-outs about it. The Star-Tribune reported on that conversation last week. Two members of the public spoke against the ordinance as it was presented at Tuesday nights meeting. Ronna Boril, who said that she has been in real estate for almost 50 years, told councilors shes not adamantly opposed to the changes being suggested, but thinks city needs to scrutinize their business practices to make sure their as streamlined as they can be before they enact an ordinance like this. In other words, she said that they need to tighten up their business practices. Former state lawmaker and local business owner Pat Sweeney went through the proposed changes point by point and noted what he thought were the most problematic areas in all of them. He called the proposed changes sweeping and Section G the part that Gamroth wanted axed conflicting. Jill Johnson, financial services director for the city, and Brandy Coyle, Caspers accounts receivable supervisor, both stood to answer questions and comments from City Council after public remarks finished. Their recommendation was still to go forth with the ordinance. Something that would not change under the new ordinance are how delinquent tenants are kept in the citys system, they said. The city will still be able to see in their system if a tenant, who might be behind on bills at one address, tries to move to another property without first settling their unpaid utility bills. Another thing that would not happen, Mayor Steve Cathey noted, is landlords and/or property owners would not be retroactively billed for anything if the proposed ordinance passes sans amendments. Pollock told her fellow councilors that she struggles with this philosophically. On one hand, she said, she doesnt think that taxpayers should have to shoulder the burden of people who dont pay their bills on time. (Remember that one of the citys biggest motivations to get this passed, as explained by City Manager Carter Napier in previous meetings, is so ratepayers dont have to absorb rising costs when the city has to keep sending things to collections.) On the other hand, though, she said that people have reached out to her with suggestions of how the city can better collaborate and communicate with landlords another one of the citys goals for this ordinance without having to adopt the proposed ordinance. Theres strength to opening new methods of communication between the city and landlords, she said, but the ordinance still contains weaknesses. Two major concerns she had included a fear that this might raise entry costs to securing housing for some people and that many property owners are delinquent, too, and the ordinance doesnt really address that, she said. Gamroth also had doubts, saying that he thinks the juice is not worth the squeeze when it comes to this. Councilor Ray Pacheco said that he was standing firm on this ordinance because he believes that the City Council has a responsibility to safeguard taxpayers dollars. The ordinance is scheduled to go before councilors for the third and last time on Feb. 20. U.S. Rep. Matt Rosendale dismissed speculation Thursday that he traded his vote on military aid to Israel in exchange for a Senate campaign endorsement from Speaker Mike Johnson. Johnson had signaled his intent to endorse Rosendale as Montanas Republican challenger to Democratic Sen. Jon Tester, as reported by Punchbowl News. But hours later the speaker cancelled the announcement under political pressure from Senate Republicans. Rosendale is expected to announce his Senate candidacy within days. Observers quickly associated the endorsement with Rosendale's supporting vote two days earlier for $17.6 billion aid package to Israel, reported Politico. Montanas Eastern District rep had made no attempt to offset the Israel aid with an equal cut to federal spending elsewhere, as is usually his modus operandi. That is 100% false. It is offensive for anyone to even insinuate that my support for any legislation would be contingent upon the Speakers support, Rosendale said Thursday. The two subjects were never discussed at the same time or in connection with each other. While I continue to find ways for Congress to offset the cost of aid going to Israel, I will always support Israel in its effort to defend itself. The aid for Israel votes fell short of the two-thirds majority needed to pass. The speakers endorsement is off. Johnson told Capitol press on Thursday that he would be donating from his leadership fund to the Rosendale campaign, as Johnson does for many House Republicans. Then word got out that Johnson had called both Montanas Republican U.S. Sen. Steve Daines and Western District Rep. Ryan Zinke late Wednesday night about the planned endorsement. Daines the chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, a primary source of campaign and financial support for Republican candidates for U.S. Senate. The NRSC put its resources behind newcomer Tim Sheehy in Montanas Senate race months ago. Daines endorsed Sheehys candidacy as soon as it was announced last June. The Montana senators backing of Sheehy has angered hardline Republicans in the Montana Legislature, a group of whom endorsed Rosendale as members of the Montana Freedom Caucus, an extension of the House Freedom Caucus, of which Rosendale is a member. Montana sources familiar with the phone discussion told Lee Montana newspapers that Johnson concluded at end of the calls that it was best not to get involved in Montanas Senate primary. Zinke confirmed the same. Upon reflection, the speaker withdrew his endorsement largely based on the reality that Rosendale is the weaker candidate by far against Tester, Zinke said in a statement when asked about the call. In a Facebook post on Jan. 22, Mills Mayor Leah Juarez put out a call to citizens in the Mills, Wy public community group: If youve had any issues with the ZIP codes as a resident, please, put it in the comments. Residents responded: Late and lost deliveries; troubles trying to validate their applications for credit cards, loans and mortgages; the confusion of having to have two addresses a PO Box number and a house address for many people. Frustration. Thats how Juarez described the situation to the Star-Tribune. The solution? Give Mills its own ZIP code, she said. The root of the problem, according to Juarez, is the fact that parts of Mills share a ZIP code with Casper: 82604. More than half of residents have to receive mail at the post office and, as Mills post office doesnt do delivery, they have to go to Casper. The catch is, however, that the PO boxes at the post office, as well as some other areas of the city, have a 82644 code. If she tries to order something through FedEx, she said, it wont recognize her address as deliverable, because the mapping program pulls from USPS, and her home isnt recognized through that mapping program either, because FedEx uses the USPS system. The post offices suggestion to put a residents PO Box after their name doesnt work either. And its been a recurring thing, she said. When she moved to Mills 15 years ago, it was an immediate problem. (City Manager Carter Napier told the Star-Tribune on Tuesday that he was not aware Mills was having these issues.) But as residents face personal frustrations dealing with shipping things and filling out applications, the city itself faces frustration, too. The ZIP code conundrum is screwing up their franchise fees, census counts and possibly property taxes as well, Juarez told the Star-Tribune. We just recently found out that some of our franchise fees were not getting collected at all, because there were homes that were kind of just in limbo . The company didnt know if they were county or if they were Casper. We know that there were some that were being attributed to Casper because of the oh-four number, she said. We were not getting some of our own franchise fees for things such as Rocky Mountain Power. We know that some of our people got sent to Casper because Mills doesnt have its own ZIP code identity. Recent census count data puts Mills around 4,100 people, but Juarez thinks that the more accurate number would be closer to 5,000. Juarez has been working on a new boundary map based on records from the assessor and comparisons to areas that the city of Mills has annexed or services utilities for. Its a little-by-little sort of thing, she said. In letters to the U.S. Postal Service that were shared with the Star-Tribune, the fire chief in Mills and the regional business manager for Rocky Mountain Powers Mills location each expressed support for the city to receive its own ZIP code. The fire departments new billing system uses the postal services address database to bill customers, and Wil Gay, the fire chief, had to tell them about the wrinkles in that system for Mills. Rocky Mountain Power has had difficulties assigning addresses to customers in Mills as part of their utility reimbursement, which is part of the citys requirements. City leaders have asked the postal service to resolve this issues, but Juarez said they are resistant: Starting delivery service in Mills could cost them more money, and they don't want that. Juarezs plan of action is to take this to members of Wyomings congressional delegation Rep. Harriet Hageman and Sen. Cynthia Lummis. She told the Star-Tribune via text on Monday that she took the letters of support, including one she wrote with comments from residents, to Hagemans and Lummis teams. Juarez is now waiting for them to get the ball rolling, she said. 34 President Joe Biden on Thursday evening strongly disputed new claims by Department of Justice special counsel Robert Hur that he "willfully retained and disclosed classified materials" as a private citizen, and that he exhibited poor memory during an interview about that material. "My memory has not gotten worse," Biden told reporters in a nationally televised address at the White House hours after Hur released his report. "My memory is fine." "I'm an elderly man, and I know what the hell I'm doing," Biden said, in response to a reporter's question that noted Hur's reference to the president as elderly. "I've been president and I put this country back on its feet. I don't need his recommendation," Biden said. But minutes later, Biden referred to Egypt's president as the "president of Mexico." Biden was visibly angry at Hur's claim that he could not remember the year his son Beau Biden died, which the special counsel cited among other examples of evidence that Biden's memory "appeared hazy" during interviews with investigators. The president said that when he was asked a question about that year Beau died "I thought to myself [it] wasn't any of their damn business." "How in the hell dare he raise that," Biden said of Hur. "I don't need anyone to remind me when he passed away." U.S. President Joe Biden gestures as he delivers remarks at the White House in Washington, U.S., February 8, 2024. Kevin Lamarque | Reuters The main legal takeaway from Hur's report was the special counsel's decision not to criminally charge Biden despite what Hur said was the president's willful retention of classified documents and disclosure of some classified material to the ghostwriter of his 2017 memoir. The material was retained in Biden's Wilmington, Delaware, home, and at an office in Washington, D.C., after he ceased being vice president in January 2017. Biden's lawyers have said the material began being found in late 2022, months after former President Donald Trump was indicted on charges related to retaining classified documents at his Florida residence after he left the White House, and to his obstructing efforts by officials to recover those documents. Biden said, "I've seen the headlines since the report was released about my willful retention of documents." "These assertions are not only misleading, they're just plain wrong," the president said. Biden forcefully denied sharing the material with the writer. And the president noted that Hur on page 215 of the same report wrote that "while it is natural to assume that Mr. Biden put the Afghanistan documents in the box on purpose and that he knew they were there, there is in fact a shortage of evidence on these points." "We do not know why, how, or by whom the documents were placed in the box," the report had said. On page 12 of the report, Biden noted, the special counsel wrote, "For other recovered classified documents, after a thorough investigation the decision to decline criminal charges was straightforward." Those classified documents were found in a Washington, D.C., office Biden had used after he ended his tenure as vice president in January 2017, and in collections of his U.S. Senate papers at the University of Delaware. "The evidence suggests that Mr. Biden did not willfully retain these documents and that they could plausibly have been brought to these locations by mistake," the report said. Despite that language, Hur in his report used evidence of what he said was Biden's "poor memory" to further justify his decision not to criminally charge the president. "We have also considered that, at trial, Mr. Biden would likely present himself to a jury, as he did during our interview of him, as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory," the special counsel said in his report. Hur's repeated references to Biden's memory sparked a bitter backlash from the White House and Biden's supporters before the president made his televised address. Biden's lawyers in a letter to Hur appended to the report wrote, "We do not believe that the report's treatment of President Biden's memory is accurate or appropriate." "The report uses highly prejudicial language to describe a commonplace occurrence among witnesses: a lack of recall of years-old events," the lawyers wrote. A new national report and a new court filing, both coming within the past two weeks, paint a dire picture for Montanas housing crisis. The federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)s 2023 Annual Homelessness Assessment Report has the startling data. Montana had the second-largest increase in homeless population (89% increase) and the highest increase in chronic homelessness (551% increase) in the nation. Sam Forstag, with the Montana Coalition to Solve Homelessness, pointed to two primary factors driving the sharp increase in homelessness: unaffordable/unavailable housing, and unaddressed problems with drug abuse and mental health. I agree with his assessment. The Legislature passed major reforms to address all of those problems. The 2021 Legislature established the HEART Fund with Gov. Greg Gianforte, directing $25 million a year to drug treatment and behavioral health. The 2023 Legislature invested $300 million into a long-term overhaul of Montanas mental health care system, a commitment of unprecedented magnitude in the Treasure State. Both of those funds are currently proceeding as intended, with the HEART Fund recently being celebrated in Missoula. The 2023 Legislature also passed a series of land use reforms designed to improve Montanas supply of housing without decimating our agricultural and rural nature. These bills were intended to alleviate Montanas severe shortage of available housing (both for purchasing and renting), as well as make housing more affordable as supply catches up with demand. Four of the land use and property rights reforms are under litigation. A Gallatin County judge has temporarily blocked two of them. A recent court filing demonstrates the impact this judge-mandated blockade is having on the ground in our communities. In his motion to intervene in the case to protect his rights, Missoula resident David Kuhnle explains the situation: Kuhnle was relying upon SB 528 to build the [accessory dwelling unit] he planned for his propertyKuhnle was ready to submit his completed plans once the new laws became effective on Jan. 1, 2024. But, because of the injunction entered in this case, he is now facing building delays that will drive up his costs and prevent a renter from moving into this rental propertyhe cannot build as he planned, and hes facing months and years of delays or even a wholesale elimination of the ADU plan he intended to follow, all because of the injunction. Per this court filing, Judge Salvagnis ruling, and his ruling alone, is directly blocking Mr. Kuhnle from building three bedrooms of much-needed housing on his own property. Hundreds, perhaps thousands, of other would-be homes are similarly tied up because of the injunction. There are factors in the housing crisis, such as the cost of building materials, that neither the Legislature nor Judiciary can do much about. But on the factors we can affect, the Legislature is doing our job. Meanwhile, the courts are now directly blocking housing, contributing to the skyrocketing rate of homelessness and pushing homeownership further out of reach for average Montanans. A picture taken from southern Israel near the border with the Gaza Strip on December 21, 2023, shows smoke billowing following Israeli bombardment in the Palestinian territory amid ongoing battles with the Palestinian Hamas militant group. Oil prices posted a weekly again as hopes for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war appeared to fade. Crude prices inched higher Friday with the West Texas Intermediate contract for March adding 62 cents to settle at $76.84 a barrel. The Brent contract settled at $82.19 a barrel, up 56 cents. Based on their settle prices, both U.S. crude and the global benchmark finished out the week higher by more than 6% as the conflict in the Middle East drags on with no end in sight. Israel is pressing ahead with its war in Gaza, bombarding the southern city of Rafah on the Egyptian border after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected Hamas' proposed terms for a ceasefire. And the U.S. killed a senior militant leader in a drone strike in Baghdad this week, raising tensions with the government of Iraq, a major oil producer. Wand_prapan | Istock | Getty Images There's no debate that Social Security's funds which are projected to become insolvent in the next decade need fixing. But a new research proposal published by the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College by experts at the opposite ends of the political spectrum has sparked considerable opposition. The research comes from an unlikely pair conservative economist Andrew Biggs, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, and left-leaning economist Alicia Munnell, director of the Center for Retirement Research. (The brief is based on a paper Biggs and Munnell co-wrote with Michael Wicklein, a research assistant at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston.) Together, they call for limiting current tax preferences for retirement savings plans, and instead redirecting those funds to help shore up Social Security. How retirement plan tax incentives work In 2024, the limit for total employee and employer contributions to a defined contribution plan such as a 401(k) is $69,000. Individuals who are 50 and over can put away an extra $7,500. However, the limit for employee contributions is $23,000, or $30,500 for those who are 50 and up. Those contributions are typically eligible for tax deferrals, whereby the money saved now is not taxed until retirement. Only high-income individuals tend to meet those thresholds. Individual retirement accounts also enable workers to put away up to $7,000 in pretax contributions, or $8,000 for those 50 and up. The maximum contribution thresholds are adjusted each year. In 2020, those tax preferences reduced federal income taxes by about $185 billion to $189 billion, the research found. That is equal to about 0.9% of gross domestic product, defined as the final goods and services produced in the U.S. The tax incentives have "virtually no impact on retirement saving," the CRR research concludes. Meanwhile, Social Security's combined trust funds are projected to run out in the early to mid-2030s. By rolling back the tax incentives provided through defined contribution retirement plans, the money saved could be used to help fix a portion of Social Security's funding gap, the researchers contend. That would provide immediate funding to the program that provides the nation's retirement, disability and family benefits, and give lawmakers more time to consider other changes such as tax increases or benefit adjustments that would have to be more gradually phased in, according to Biggs. Losing tax breaks 'would be harmful,' critics argue Biggs and Munnell's research, published in January, has been the subject of considerable pushback that aims to poke holes in their conclusions and defend the current defined contribution system. That includes response pieces published by the Mercatus Center at George Mason University, the Cato Institute and the National Association of Plan Advisors. Without a tax benefit, workers will likely be reluctant to save with their employer plans, said Jason Fichtner, chief economist at the Bipartisan Policy Center and a co-author of the response published by the Mercatus Center. "We now have an industry and a policy based on 401(k)s and defined contribution plans that has been, relatively speaking, successful," Fichtner said. "Does that help everybody? No," he said. "Can we do better? Yes. Would it be helpful to get rid of it? No, it would be harmful." 'Rich people are going to do it anyway' Despite the pushback, Biggs and Munnell both say they are holding firm to their stance. Admittedly, it is one of the rare issues upon which the two experts concur. "Our disagreements go back decades," Munnell wrote in a recent blog post detailing their opposing stances on certain issues. "Sometimes, however, we see things the same way," Munnell wrote. Neither Biggs nor Munnell are strangers to controversy. Recently, Biggs' views on the future of Social Security, specifically whether benefits should be cut or whether the program should be privatized, were called into question during a Senate Finance Committee hearing. The testimony was part of a Senate hearing to consider Biggs' nomination to the Social Security Advisory Board, an independent, bipartisan federal government agency. The SSAB is a technical advisory panel, notes Biggs, and has no power over Social Security policy put forth in Congress. Chang Li Hua and Yi Yan Fuei are the stars of "Nai Nai & Wai Po," the Oscar-nominated documentary short now streaming on Disney+ and Hulu. Sean Wang has always believed his grandmothers were movie stars and now they have an Oscar nomination to prove it. Wang, 29, is a Los Angeles-based filmmaker whose film "Nai Nai & Wai Po" (which translates to "grandma and grandma" in Mandarin Chinese) is up for Best Documentary Short Film for the 96th Academy Awards. It's now streaming on Disney+ and Hulu. The film, which Wang calls a "personal love letter" to his grandmothers, follows Nai Nai (Yi Yan Fuei) and Wai Po (Chang Li Hua), who are "late-stage soulmates" in their 80s and 90s and live together with Wang's parents in Fremont, Calif. The movie was filmed in 2021 when Wang returned home from New York City during the pandemic. It was the longest time he'd gotten to spend with his grandmothers since leaving home and realized "they're the most pure form of joy in my life," even as they were aging and as anti-Asian hate incidents were being reported across the U.S. Wang picked up the camera to create a time capsule for his family and to show his future children and grandchildren, he says. The film premiered at SXSW in 2023 and won the Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award. The secret to a fulfilling life Yi and Chang , who were 94 and 83 at the time of filming, spend their days dancing, stretching, reading the newspaper and reminiscing about old friends and memories. The days we spend feeling joy and the days we spend feeling pain are the same days spent. So I'm going to choose joy. Yi Yan Fuei 'Nai Nai & Wai Po' "We were really excited about making a movie about them, which explores end of life, but have it be infused with this vibrant youthfulness that comes from them," Wang says. "And what we learned from that is: Growing old doesn't necessarily mean fading away. There's just as much to look forward to in old age and there's just as much youthfulness and fun and vibrancy in old age as there is in our lives." One line from his Nai Nai was particularly resonant: "The days we spend feeling joy and the days we spend feeling pain are the same days spent. So I'm going to choose joy." "It's a simple line," Wang says, "but it's a decision some days to allow yourself to feel joy." Wang says his grandmothers have always been supportive of his filmmaking and jokes that "they're the reason I have a career." The documentary wasn't their first time on camera: Wang says they all made a minute-long skit in 2018 as a Christmas card of sorts. It was "really stupid and silly and chaotic, but it was so fun to make with them," Wang says. "They were on board for sure." For her part, Chang hopes the movie inspires parents to encourage their kids to pursue the paths they want to follow, rather than projecting their own goals and interests onto their children. Wang takes his Wai Po's life and career advice to heart: "If you plant the seeds to support your loved ones [as they] try to find the things that they love to do, that's how you have a fulfilling life." Chasing meaningful work over career-building projects OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is seeking trillions of dollars in investments to overhaul the global semiconductor industry, The Wall Street Journal reported. Altman has long talked of the supply-and-demand problem with AI chips many AI giants want them, but there aren't enough to go around and that it limits OpenAI's growth. He's considering a project that would increase global chip-building capacity, according to a Thursday evening report in The Wall Street Journal, and is reportedly in talks with different investors, including the government of the United Arab Emirates. Altman could need to raise between $5 trillion and $7 trillion for the endeavor, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing one source. CNBC could not confirm the number. OpenAI did not respond to a request for comment. On Wednesday, Altman posted on X that OpenAI believes "the world needs more ai infrastructure--fab capacity, energy, datacenters, etc--than people are currently planning to build." He added that "building massive-scale AI infrastructure, and a resilient supply chain, is crucial to economic competitiveness" and that OpenAI would try to help. The news follows some controversy over some of Altman's previous chip endeavors and investments. Just before Altman's brief ouster as CEO of OpenAI, he was reportedly seeking billions for a new and not-yet-formed chip venture code-named "Tigris" to eventually compete with Nvidia, traveling to the Middle East to raise money from investors. In 2018, Altman personally invested in an AI chip startup called Rain Neuromorphics, based near OpenAI's San Francisco headquarters, and in 2019, OpenAI signed a letter of intent to spend $51 million on Rain's chips. In December, the U.S. compelled a Saudi Aramco-backed venture capital firm to sell its shares in Rain. Nvidia has been the big moneymaker during the past year's generative AI boom, with its market cap more than tripling in 2023. The company's graphics processing units, or GPUs, power the large language models created by OpenAI, Alphabet , Meta and a growing crop of heavily funded startups all battling for a slice of the generative AI pie. Nvidia currently controls about 80% of that AI chip market with a current market cap of about $1.72 trillion, not far from overtaking tech giants such as Amazon and Alphabet in market cap. Altman likely seeks to change that. In November 2022, when OpenAI's ChatGPT launched, the company had a limited number of GPUs and capacity, and largely thought of itself as a company that builds tools for developers and businesses, OpenAI COO Brad Lightcap told CNBC last November. When it came to releasing its now-viral ChatGPT bot, Lightcap recalled that Altman was a big proponent of "just trying it," his thesis being that there was something important and personal about text-based interaction with the models. The move paid off. ChatGPT broke records at the time as the fastest-growing consumer app in history, and now has more than 100 million weekly active users, along with more than 92% of Fortune 500 companies using the platform, according to OpenAI. Last November, OpenAI's board ousted Altman, prompting resignations or threats of resignations including an open letter signed by virtually all of OpenAI's employees, and uproar from investors, including Microsoft. Within a week, Altman was back at the company. Since then, OpenAI has announced a new board, including former Salesforce co-CEO Bret Taylor, former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers and Quora CEO Adam D'Angelo. Microsoft obtained a nonvoting board observer position, and the company still plans to add more seats. Read more at The Wall Street Journal Campaign posters for Nawaz Sharif, Pakistan's former prime minister, along a street ahead of Pakistan's national election in Lahore, Pakistan, on Friday, Feb. 2, 2024. Bloomberg | Bloomberg | Getty Images Pakistan's former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif declared victory on Friday in the country's 2024 General Election, one that many Pakistanis and human rights groups are decrying as neither free nor fair. Sharif, 74, cited the Election Commission of Pakistan in saying that his party, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), had won the largest share of the national vote. Multiple media reports said that independent candidates, backed by imprisoned ex-PM Imran Khan, were actually leading at the midway point of the vote-counting process. Polls closed Thursday at 5 p.m. local time after a day of voting that was marred by militant attacks and charges of electoral misconduct. The vote counting was hit by long delays with the Election Commission ordering the immediate release of the results in the early hours of Friday morning after more than 10 hours of waiting. Men wait for their turn to cast a vote at a polling station during the general election in Karachi, Pakistan February 8, 2024. Akhtar Soomro | Reuters The election, voting for which began the morning of Feb. 8, comes at an especially turbulent time for the country of 240 million. Known for its decades of volatile politics involving assassinations, imprisonments and military coups, Pakistan is now in the throes of an economic crisis and its largest party has been banned from running in the election. The country's 2024 leadership contest is "easily one of the most blatant in terms of the degree of interference by the military," Pramit Pal Chaudhuri, practice head for South Asia at Eurasia Group, told CNBC on Thursday. "Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif will almost certainly win," Chaudhuri said as the polls opened. "But he will come in as a remarkably illegitimate government as far as the broader public is concerned." A polling officer instructs a woman, as she casts her vote at a polling station during the general election in Karachi, Pakistan February 8, 2024. Akhtar Soomro | Reuters Sharif, who previously served as Pakistan's prime minister three separate times in 1990, 1997 and 2013, returned from a self-imposed exile in the U.K. last year after mending a longtime fight with the country's powerful military, which plays a decisive role in its politics. A lifetime ban from partaking in politics and multiple corruption convictions for Sharif were overturned by Pakistani courts last year. He contested the country's last general election while in prison. Pakistan's Interior Ministry on Thursday announced it was cutting cellphone service across the country and closing Pakistan's land borders due to the security situation, the former of which analysts say was likely intended to stifle coordination among opposition candidates. watch now Among the most recent dramatic developments was the sentencing just over a week prior of Imran Khan, Pakistan's former prime minister long seen as a favorite to win the vote. Khan, 71, was sentenced to several prison terms one of 10 years and one of 14 years on charges of graft and divulging state secrets, which he denies. At the weekend, he was also given a seven-year prison sentence for unlawful marriage. Khan was removed from office by the country's judiciary in 2022 on corruption charges, and has continuously said that the efforts against him are the work of political opponents. Formerly captain of the Pakistan national cricket team, Khan remains an immensely popular figure domestically. His political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) which was recently banned from running in the election in a harsh crackdown is the largest in the country. Khan called on his supporters to "come out in millions on election day and defeat the planners," and the party is fielding candidates running as independents, though they did not attract the necessary numbers to form a government. Analysts and regular Pakistanis say the country's political reality is dictated by its army, without whose blessing no elected leader can survive for very long. Pepsi bottles are seen at the grocery store in Las Vegas, United States on November 17, 2023. PepsiCo on Friday reported mixed quarterly results as North American demand for its food and drinks weakened. CEO Ramon Laguarta said that U.S. sales broadly slowed down in the fourth quarter. "Part of that is a slowdown due to pricing and [consumers'] disposable income situation," he told investors on the company's conference call. He added that U.S. consumers are also shifting their behavior from eating and drinking at home to picking up more of their snacks and Gatorade from convenience stores. But Laguarta expressed optimism about the overall state of the consumer, citing low unemployment and hopes that interest rates will fall by the summer and wages will rise faster than inflation. Shares of the company closed Friday down 3.5%. Here's what the company reported compared with what Wall Street was expecting, based on a survey of analysts by Refinitiv: Earnings per share: $1.78 adjusted vs. $1.72 expected Revenue: $27.85 billion vs. $28.4 billion expected Pepsi reported fourth-quarter net income of $1.3 billion, or 94 cents per share, up from $518 million, or 37 cents per share, a year earlier. Excluding items, the food and beverage giant earned $1.78 per share. Net sales dropped less than 1% to $27.85 billion. It's the first quarter since 2020 that the company's quarterly revenue has declined compared with the year-ago period. Currency exchange rates dragged net sales down by 1.5%, and the prior-year quarter included an extra week. Pepsi's organic revenue, which excludes acquisitions and divestitures, rose 4.5% in the quarter, helped by higher prices. But those same raised prices have hurt demand for the company's food and drinks. Pepsi's volume, which strips out pricing and currency changes, slid again this quarter. PepsiCo executives said high borrowing costs and lower personal savings have squeezed consumers' budgets, particularly in North America, in prepared remarks released ahead of the company's conference call. They also said consumers are increasingly choosing smaller pack sizes for convenience and their low price points. Pepsi's North American Quaker Foods division reported an 8% decline in volume. A voluntary recall of its granola bars and cereals hurt its sales during the quarter, along with weaker growth for the overall category. Frito-Lay North America, which includes brands like Cheetos and Doritos, posted a 2% drop in volume. Pepsi's North American beverage unit saw its volume fall 6% in the quarter. For 2024, Pepsi now anticipates organic revenue will rise at least 4% and core constant currency earnings per share will climb at least 8%. The company previously forecast an increase in organic revenue on the high end of 4% to 6% and core constant currency earnings per share growth in the high single digits. "Consumers are likely to remain watchful with their budgets and choiceful with their purchases," Pepsi executives said in the prepared remarks. Pepsi is predicting a weaker first half of the year as product recalls dent its North American Quaker Oats business and international conflicts hurt sales in some regions. Executives are expecting international organic revenue growth to top that of North America for the full year. Don't miss these stories from CNBC PRO: Investors in red-hot Nvidia and Eli Lilly face a high-class problem: What to do next with stocks that are on historic winning streaks? These two big winners of 2023 are back at it again this year. Nvidia has soared more than 40% in 2024, making it the best performer in the S & P 500, as it was last year. Eli Lilly has jumped almost 27%, building on its 59% gain in 2023. In February alone, the stocks are up about 15% and 14.5%, respectively. The long-term outlooks for Nvidia and Eli Lilly both longtime Club holdings brightened in recent weeks, leading to additional gains for the stocks. In Nvidia's case, large customers and key partners reported results and issued guidance that the signal demand for its market-leading artificial intelligence chips remains fervent. Meanwhile, the launch of Eli Lilly's all-important obesity drug Zepbound is off to a blistering start, as confirmed by Tuesday's earnings report and 2024. Still, the rallies are dramatic, prompting some on Wall Street to suggest the stocks are moving too far, too fast , and are due for a correction. This leaves Club members who own Nvidia, Eli Lilly, or both, wondering how to proceed with their investments. Should you sell the whole position for a healthy profit and move on to a less-appreciated stock? Trim a little bit? Or maybe do nothing at all and just let it ride? (Our discipline is to generally avoid buying shares at or near all-time highs.) What to do next will vary from person to person based on his or her cost basis, time horizon, risk tolerance, and investment goals. However, there are two primary questions every investor should ask before taking action in a winning position. The specifics of these two stocks are extraordinary, but these two questions generally apply to any rallying stock. NVDA 3M mountain Eli Lilly's stock performance over the past three months. Have you sold any stock recently? Start here: When was the last time you trimmed your position? The further the sale is in the rear-view mirror, the more you should consider doing a little profit-taking. Good investment discipline requires ringing the register along the way. There is a risk in getting greedy and watching profits earned on paper slip away. In the stock market, deciding when to sell is as important as deciding when to buy. As bright as the fundamentals are for Nvidia and Eli Lilly, there are no stocks completely immune to a sell-off, or at the very least a period of consolidation. Recall that shares of Eli Lilly fell more than 12% between Sept. 12 and Oct. 3 last year, putting them into correction territory defined as a drop of at least 10% from a recent high. To be sure, that's a very manageable decline, but it's a reminder even stellar stocks are not one-way marches higher. Also consider that despite more than tripling in value last year, there was a period between mid-July and mid-December when Nvidia's stock effectively went nowhere. Its close on Dec. 11 of roughly $465 a share was below its July 18 close, at $475 a share. Given our confidence in the companies' multiyear time horizons, the argument here is not to sell the entire position. Far from it. It's important to maintain a position large enough to meaningfully benefit from the potential upside. And there's a balance that needs to be struck: If you're constantly selling all your winners, then you may be stuck with a portfolio of losers. Right now, we feel good about the timing of our most recent sales in Nvidia and Eli Lilly. We made a small Nvidia sale in early January along with a handful of other tech winners that had huge runs in 2023 because we were worried about being greedy. Before that Jan. 2 trim, the stock had more than tripled since our last sale. The move wasn't a violation of our "own it, don't trade it" designation in Nvidia, one of only two stocks Jim Cramer has put in that camp along with Apple . We don't say to never sell at all. The mantra conveys the rock-solid conviction we have in the company's long-term success. But, as Jim frequently says, discipline always trumps conviction. Sept. 12 was the last time we sold some Eli Lilly shares , at nearly $592 each. Coincidentally, that was right before the stock began the aforementioned correction. Eli Lilly's stock is currently up about 24% from our Sept. 12 sale level, based on Thursday's close. LLY 3M mountain Eli Lilly's stock performance over the past three months. Is it still underappreciated? At a fundamental level, the intention to hold onto any stock for some time suggests a belief that it will be worth more in the future than it is now. As Jim said this week, "Remember we have stocks that we think do not reflect the full long-term opportunity so we would be selling them before their full potential is realized." In the case of Nvidia and Eli Lilly, we see considerable untapped potential and underappreciated drivers of future value, which is why we argue the current debate around these stocks should be "to trim or not to trim?" rather than "hold on or head for the exits?" There's always the possibility of a pullback on the near-term horizon, but under-the-radar opportunities for Nvidia and Eli Lilly barring material, unforeseen developments would make it easier to see through the turbulence. The software and services sales unit is arguably the most underappreciated part of the Nvidia story. A small, but fast-growing business for the leading AI chipmaker, it has the potential to be much larger over time and could increasingly help to offset some of the cyclicality inherent to the company's bread-and-butter hardware sales. The core of Nvidia's software strategy is AI supercomputer accessible through a web browser known as DGX Cloud. The company debuted DGX Cloud in March 2023, and its availability has increased as more cloud-computing providers, like Microsoft 's Azure and Amazon Web Services, bring the offering to their platforms. On Wall Street, investors generally consider software and services revenue streams to be more stable and more profitable than hardware. As a result, they're usually willing to pay a premium or, in Wall Street parlance, a higher "multiple" for software-related earnings. As Nvidia's software and services business becomes a more significant part of the overall company, that could boost the stock's valuation. Nvidia's earnings report Feb. 21 will likely shine a light on the growth of the business. In November, CFO Colette Kress said the business was on track to generate $1 billion in annualized revenue by year-end , up from the "hundreds of millions of dollars" run rate disclosed in August. An underappreciated aspect of Eli Lilly's growth prospects is the potential that the class of drugs known as GLP-1s can treat other conditions besides type-2 diabetes and obesity. Lilly's leading GLP-1 is tirzepatide, which is approved under the Zepbound brand to treat obesity, and the Mounjaro brand for type-2 diabetes. The obesity market alone is projected to be enormous . Some Wall Street research firms, including Goldman Sachs, estimate it could be worth $100 billion by 2030 . In 2024, sales of GLP-1 obesity medications are expected to total $11.5 billion, according to analyst estimates compiled by FactSet. Lilly rival Novo Nordisk's drugs, primarily Wegovy, account for about 80% of those sales projections. The consensus estimate for Lilly's Zepbound is currently about $1.88 billion, according to FactSet. But the market for GLP-1s could grow larger if they're approved for other purposes, such as treating sleep apnea and lowering the risk of severe cardiovascular events as Novo Nordisk's Wegovy has been shown to do. Data released this week indicated that Lilly's tirzepatide showed promise in treating fatty liver disease in a midstage trial. And, in a note to clients Wednesday, analysts at Leerink highlighted a study that suggested diabetic patients on GLP-1s including tirzepatide were less likely to be diagnosed with depression after beginning to take the drugs compared with people who were not receiving the class of drugs. These recent developments offer further evidence that we're just scratching the surface with GLP-1s. For this reason, we stay invested in Eli Lilly, as tirzepatide is in the early days of its commercial launch and the company advances its next-generation versions of the drugs including one in pill form through the clinical trial process. (Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust is long NVDA and LLY. See here for a full list of the stocks.) As a subscriber to the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer, you will receive a trade alert before Jim makes a trade. Jim waits 45 minutes after sending a trade alert before buying or selling a stock in his charitable trust's portfolio. If Jim has talked about a stock on CNBC TV, he waits 72 hours after issuing the trade alert before executing the trade. THE ABOVE INVESTING CLUB INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY , TOGETHER WITH OUR DISCLAIMER . NO FIDUCIARY OBLIGATION OR DUTY EXISTS, OR IS CREATED, BY VIRTUE OF YOUR RECEIPT OF ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED IN CONNECTION WITH THE INVESTING CLUB. NO SPECIFIC OUTCOME OR PROFIT IS GUARANTEED. Reuters Russian President Vladimir Putin gave a more than two-hour interview to former Fox News host Tucker Carlson that was released online Thursday, covering a variety of topics, from Ukraine to the Russian economy, but breaking little new ground. Russian President Vladimir Putin gave a more than two-hour interview to former Fox News host Tucker Carlson that was released online Thursday, covering a variety of topics, from Ukraine to the Russian economy, but breaking little new ground. Putin told Carlson that Russia has not achieved its war aims in its widely condemned invasion of neighboring Ukraine, and he began the interview with a roughly 20-minute-long, mostly uninterrupted, speech about history that included the days of Catherine the Great, the empress of Russia from 1762 to 1796. Carlson at one point flattered Putin and said it was not boring but added, "I just don't know how it's relevant." NBC News has not been provided any details about the circumstances under which the interview was recorded. Putin spoke in Russian, and the translation was provided by Carlson's show. Putin did not rule out that Russia could release jailed Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who the U.S. says is being wrongfully detained, but suggested that the U.S. would have to make a deal. There is an "ongoing dialogue between the special services," he said. "We want the U.S. special services to think about how they can contribute to achieving the goals our special services are pursuing. We are ready to talk. Moreover, the talks are underway," Putin said. The Wall Street Journal dismissed Putin's claim that Gershkovich, 32, was involved in "espionage," but it said Thursday it was encouraged by any deal that could bring him home. "Evan is a journalist, and journalism is not a crime. Any portrayal to the contrary is total fiction. Evan was unjustly arrested and has been wrongfully detained by Russia for nearly a year for doing his job, and we continue to demand his immediate release," the Journal said. It was Putin's first interview with a Western-based media figure since his forces invaded Ukraine two years ago. He delivered many familiar talking points and was rarely challenged by Carlson. Carlson has consistently repeated falsehoods, misinformation and conspiracy theories, and he has been a vocal critic of U.S. support of Ukraine. Referring to sanctions the U.S. and other countries placed on Russia in response to the invasion of Ukraine, Putin said, "The tools that the U.S. uses don't work." Putin also said he had a good personal relationship with former President George W. Bush. "I had such personal relationship with Trump, as well," he said. Asked whether there could be renewed communication between the U.S. and Russia in an administration after President Joe Biden, Putin said: "It is not about the leader. It is not about the personality of a particular person." The interview was posted on Carlson's website at about 6 p.m. Thursday, with Carlson's account on X also posting it. X, the social media site owned by Elon Musk, has along with Facebook and Instagram been blocked in Russia since the early days of the war. The Kremlin has been engineering another expected election victory for Putin in March and the Russian military has been making gains on the battlefield while aid for the Ukrainians is held up in Congress by Republicans loyal to former President Donald Trump. Carlson, who was fired from Fox News in April, has since fashioned himself as an independent journalist. He boasted ahead of the interview that he was the only Western journalist willing to interview Putin a claim that was undermined by the Kremlin, which indicated that Carlson got the interview precisely because of his pro-Russia stance on the war in Ukraine. Not only has Carlson questioned U.S. support for Kyiv, but he has also frequently been featured on Kremlin propaganda channels since he left Fox News. Ukrainians were quick to criticize Carlson for speaking to Putin while Russia continued to bombard their country. "I hope he will be asked why he kills civilians and hits residential buildings," said Andriy Yermak, the chief of staff for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. "Criminals should be tried, not talked to." Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attends flag hoisting ceremony in Izium after the Ukrainian forces took control of the city from the Russian forces in Kharkiv, Ukraine on September 14, 2022. Commander of the Ukrainian Land Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi, Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak, Governor of the Military Administration of the Kharkiv Region Oleg Sinegubov also attended the ceremony. Metin Atkas | Anadolu Agency | Getty Images Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is thought to have taken one of his "biggest gambles" yet by replacing his top commander in a dramatic military shake-up. Col. Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, one of Ukraine's most experienced commanders who had led the country's ground forces since 2019, was on Thursday appointed the new head of Ukraine's armed forces amid broader military leadership changes. Zelenskyy removed Gen. Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, a widely respected and popular figure in Ukraine, after months of speculation about his future and reported tensions between Zelenskyy and Zaluzhnyi over strategy. It represents the most significant change to Ukraine's military leadership since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of the country nearly two years ago. In a post on social media platform X, Zelenskyy said he had taken the decision "to renew the leadership" of Ukraine's armed forces and thanked Zaluzhnyi for his two years of service. "I appreciate every victory we have achieved together, thanks to all the Ukrainian warriors who are heroically carrying this war on their shoulders. We candidly discussed issues in the army that require change. Urgent change," Zelenskyy said. General Valerii Zaluzhnyi, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine as seen in his office in the building of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in Kyiv, Ukraine on June 28, 2023. Oksana Parafeniuk | The Washington Post | Getty Images "This is not about surnames, and surely not about politics," Zelenskyy said. "This is about our army system, about the management of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and about involving the experience of this war's combat-hardened commanders." Zelenskky concluded the announcement by saying "2024 can be successful for Ukraine only if there are effective changes in the basis of our defense, which is the Armed Forces of Ukraine." Out with the 'iron general' Zaluzhnyi, dubbed the "iron general," was credited for playing a pivotal role in Ukraine's surprise defensive stand against Russia during the early months of the war and came to be seen as a symbol of Ukraine's fighting spirit. However, a reported rift between Zelenskky and Zaluzhnyi went public late last year when the latter said in an editorial in the Economist that the war had reached a stalemate. Zelenskky later rebuked Zaluzhnyi for that assessment and denied the war was at an impasse. "While Zelenskyy's decision to dismiss Zaluzhnyi comes as no surprise, it is one of the Ukrainian leader's biggest gambles of the entire war," Peter Dickinson, editor of the Atlantic Council think tank's UkraineAlert service, said in a blog post. Ukrainian servicemen ride on a tank following its maintenance not far from Bakhmut in the Donetsk region on February 5, 2024, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Genya Savilov | Afp | Getty Images Dickinson said there was an obvious need for a change in tactics given that Ukraine's forces had been unable to achieve major breakthroughs on the battlefield for some time. However, he warned that the timing of Zaluzhnyi's removal appeared to be "particularly unfortunate." "Ukraine currently faces growing ammunition shortages amid alarming delays in Western military aid. This is already placing severe constraints on any offensive operations and has left Ukrainian commanders with little choice but to switch to active defense," Dickinson said. "If the military situation deteriorates further in the coming months, Zelenskyy will now find that he is held personally responsible," he added. Who is Syrskyi? Oleksandr Syrskyi, the commander of the Ukrainian Ground Forces, awards Ukrainian fighters of the 10th Mountain Assault Brigade Edelweiss in the Soledar direction on July 2, 2023 in Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine. Yuriy Mate | The Washington Post | Getty Images Syrskyi, the new head of Ukraine's armed forces, oversaw many of the country's most notable successes of the past two years. These include the defense of the capital Kyiv in the first month of Russia's full-scale invasion and the Kharkiv counteroffensive in September 2022. Syrskyi has, however, also faced criticism for his role in the battle to defend Ukraine's eastern city of Bakhmut, with both Russia and Ukraine reporting heavy casualties in the fighting. Andrius Tursa, Central and Eastern Europe Advisor at consultancy firm Teneo, said Zelenskyy's move to replace his top military commander "will likely turn out to be an unpopular decision." "Zaluzhnyi's dismissal is widely perceived as an attempt by Zelensky to sideline a potential political competitor. This suggests a prioritization of his own political goals over the country's wider interests at this difficult phase of the war," Tursa said Friday in a research note. "From the perspective of Kyiv's international allies, the questionable replacement of the military leader, along with Zelensky's hints at a wider political reshuffle, broadcasts a message of divisions and competition at the highest levels." The difference between landing a job offer or a rejection can come down to how well you adjust to a fast-paced environment and interact with your colleagues. Communication is the top skill companies are hiring for right now, while adaptability is a soft skill that's "increasingly in demand" across a wide range of industries, according to new research from LinkedIn. LinkedIn's 2024 Most In-Demand Skills list, published Thursday, determined the hottest skills in the job market based on which skills appeared most in job listings on the platform between May 2023 and October 2023, as well as how many members who have been hired recently possessed this skill. For the second year in a row, communication topped the list. The job search and networking platform also looked at which skills were popular from May 2022 to October 2022 and compared it to the same period in 2023 to explore which competencies saw the biggest spike in demand, crowning adaptability as the "skill of the moment." Here are the 10 most in-demand skills employers want to see on your resume right now, according to LinkedIn: Communication Customer service Leadership Project management Management Analytics Teamwork Sales Problem-solving Research "Communication is one of the most widely needed, transferable skills, relevant to almost every job and industry," LinkedIn career expert Catherine Fisher tells CNBC Make It. The need for better communication in the workplace, she adds, is the direct result of changes to the post-pandemic workforce: the rise of AI, the widespread adoption of remote and hybrid work as well as five generations, each with different communication styles and workplace jargon, now working together. Employers want to hire people who can quickly adapt to these ongoing changes, says LinkedIn vice president Aneesh Raman. "Adaptability is the best way to have agency right now," he notes in the report. "At the core of managing change is building that muscle of adaptability." Now that hybrid work is the norm in offices across the U.S., employees are expected to communicate effectively with leaders, colleagues, customers and employees across an expanding range of channels and platforms, adapting to new tools and processes, Fisher explains. What's more, as a growing number of employers experiment with AI, Fisher points out that they're also recognizing its limitations, underscoring the need for workers that possess "uniquely human skills" such as communication to compensate for the shortcomings of of emerging technologies. "At its core, communication is essential for connecting, inspiring, building trust and getting work done effectively," she adds. In addition to adding these skills to your resume and LinkedIn profile, you can show a hiring manager that you are adaptable and a strong communicator by mentioning specific examples of how you've used these skills in your past experiences during an interview. Or, if you're angling for a promotion or raise, be sure to practice these skills in team meetings, group projects and interactions with your manager. Effective communication can include asking detailed questions during meetings, providing feedback or leading presentations, says Fisher, while adaptability can include learning new tools to improve productivity or reprioritizing tasks to help your team meet their goals. Want to land your dream job in 2024? Take CNBC's new online course How to Ace Your Job Interview to learn what hiring managers are really looking for, body language techniques, what to say and not to say, and the best way to talk about pay. Former Montana Gov. Marc Racicot was on a Sunday talk show Feb. 4, explaining why he, along with former Republican governors Bill Weld (Massachusetts) and Christine Whitman (New Jersey), concurred, in an amicus brief, with the Colorado Supreme Court decision to disqualify Donald Trump from the 2024 ballot, now before the U.S. Supreme Court (SCOTUS). First, he stated that the situation involving Trump was unfortunate. Few would argue with this assessment. It is unfortunate, or worse, for the nation and for the Republican Party to have a likely presidential nominee of a major party disqualified at this stage in the electoral process. He also said that what was needed at this stage was to do the right thing, whether it was unfortunate or inconvenient. The implication: the Supreme Court and the nation needed to find the character, the insight, and the grit to do this. It was Trump who put himself in this situation, not the Democrats, his detractors, or anyone else. He is the one who violated his oath of office and his commitment to the Constitution, self-disqualifying himself from office under the 14th Amendment. Trumps actions supporting an insurrection are a matter of record. They have been covered extensively by the U.S. House of Representatives January 6th Committee, in other court opinions, by conservative legal scholars, and in the 91 criminal felony charges against him. The constitutional language in the 14th Amendment is clear, and the history and meaning of the language is well established, supported recently by 25 civil war era historians who also filed an amicus brief with the U.S. Supreme Court in support of Colorado removing Trump from the ballot. A political argument is to let the voters decide in November if Trump is qualified. That is not the way a government of laws works. Trump is qualified under the Constitution or not. This is not a decision for voters. Many expect the Supreme Court to find some rationale to allow Trump on the November ballot. But allowing Trump to remain on the ballot, when faced with clear Constitutional text and original intent, would require ignoring textualism and originalism as a rational for its decision. The justices would have to find something else, reinforcing a contention that the current court already acts as more of a policy extension of the Republican Party than a constitutional court. Finally, there is the worry that violence could result if Trump was denied a place on the 2024 ballot. The threat of violence is real. As Stuart Stevens, senior advisor to Mitt Romney and numerous other Republicans, and co-founder of the Lincoln Project, has observed: The Republican Party is no longer an American political party. It is an autocratic movement. Informed observers across the political spectrum concur in this assessment. Totalitarian movements foster violence. The Bolsheviks in Russia, the black shirts under Mussolinis Fascism, the Nazi brown shirts, and, indeed, supporters of Trump who stormed the US Capitol on January 6th, are examples. The threats of violence that Trump and his MAGA supporters continue to make are consistent with such totalitarian or neo-fascist movements, and frightening. We are at an unexpected crisis in American democracy. How we resist undemocratic and unconstitutional actions and situations going forward will be a test that the United States has not faced in over a century and a half. It requires us, as former Governor Racicot said, to do the first right thing, and then the next one. It will require us, however unfortunate and fraught with complications, not to allow a constitutionally unqualified individual to stand for the presidency of the nation. Joe Raedle | Getty Images News | Getty Images Trader Joe's is asking a federal appeals court to reverse a judge's scathing dismissal of the grocery store chain company's lawsuit that alleged trademark infringement by an employee labor union in selling merchandise on its website. The appeal, filed Thursday, comes nearly a month after the judge accused Trader Joe's of trying to "weaponize the legal system to gain an advantage in an ongoing labor dispute" against the Trader Joe's United union. Trader Joe's, a lawyer for the company, and a spokeswoman for Trader Joe's United did not immediately respond to requests for comment about the company's filing at the 9th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals. The union, which currently represents Trader Joe's employees at two stores in Hadley, Massachusetts, and Minneapolis, is pushing to bargain for and represent employees at other stores, which the company opposes. Trader Joe's sued the union in mid-July last year in Los Angeles federal court. The suit claimed that the group had infringed on the company's trademarks in producing "union merchandise such as buttons, mugs, t-shirts, and tote bags sold on the Union's website," Judge Hernan Vera noted in his dismissal ruling in January. Trader Joe's Union logo pictured on pins. The suit was filed six days after the National Labor Relations Board issued a consolidated complaint against Trader Joe's that alleged unfair labor practices, which included retaliating against workers, threats and other acts, the judge noted. "Trader Joe's maintains that this is a purely commercial dispute and that the Union's designs are causing consumer confusion and diluting the Trader Joe's family of trademarks," Vera wrote. But Vera wrote that the suit "is undoubtedly related to an existing labor dispute, and it strains credulity to believe" that the complaint would have been filed without the union's organizing efforts. The judge wrote that the suit "comes dangerously close to the line of Rule 11," which can result in lawyers being sanctioned if they file legal actions for an improper purpose, or without the claims being warranted. "The Court dismisses Trader Joe's request for injunctive relief under the Norris-LaGuardia Act, which was passed by Congress precisely to extract courts from the unfortunate business of issuing ostensibly business-related injunctions in pending labor disputes," the judge wrote. But Vera went further than just denying the company's request for an injunction to stop the union from selling the merchandise. Applying trademark laws, Vera said there was "no likelihood of confusion posed by the Union's campaign-related products." "The logos used by the Union are in a different font, do not utilize the distinctive fruit basket design, apply concentric rings of different proportions, and are applied to products that no reasonable consumer could confuse as coming from Trader Joe's itself," the judge wrote. The Trader Joe's Union Logo Trader Joe's Ukraine accused Russia on Friday of using toxic chemicals in more than 200 attacks on the battlefield in January alone, a sharp increase in what it said were recorded instances of their use by Russian forces since they invaded two years ago. Russia has denied allegations of using chemical weapons in Ukraine and has accused Ukrainian forces of their use, which Kyiv denies. Neither side has produced evidence and Reuters has not been able to verify any use by either side. Ukraine has previously accused Moscow of using chloropicrin, which was used as poison gas in World War I. The latest statement by Ukraine's General Staff singled out CS, or tear gas, which it said Russia had used in various grenades. CS gas, widely used by police forces, is banned on the battlefield by the international Chemical Weapons Convention, which states in Article 1: "Each State Party undertakes not to use riot control agents as a method of warfare." The Ukrainian general staff said: "815 cases of the use of ammunition loaded with toxic chemicals by the Russian Federation were recorded. Of these, only in January 2024 229 cases." It did not name any other chemicals in its statement on the Telegram messenger app. General Oleksandr Tarnavskyi, commander of the "Tavria" operational grouping based in the south east, said separately on Telegram that enemy troops deliver chemical-loaded ammunition with drones. He mentioned chloropicrin in reference to chemicals he said had been used on Thursday. A year ago, Russia accused Ukrainian forces of using unspecified chemical weapons in drones in Russian-occupied eastern Ukraine. Reuters The hearing of Israel's defense at the International Court of Justice on Jan. 12, 2024, in the Hague, Netherlands. Dursun Aydemir | Anadolu | Getty Images Last month, the International Court of Justice ruled on South Africa's legal case accusing Israel of genocide. Legal proceedings began after the African country submitted cause for emergency measures in Gaza, leading to a two-day hearing, with testimonies from the South African and Israeli legal teams. The court issued its interim ruling on Jan. 26 with six legally binding provisions, including those ordering the Israeli army to: prevent acts that might be considered genocide in the besieged enclave; allow humanitarian aid into the strip; punish incitement to genocide; submit monthly reports; and take measures to protect Palestinians. CNBC takes a look at what the next steps could be, and how we got here. In the ICJ's order last month, it did not grant South Africa's main request, which was to order Israel to suspend military airstrikes in Gaza and to call for a permanent cease-fire. Israel rebuffed the allegations of genocide at the World Court and accused South Africa of being used as a legal cover for Hamas. After the ruling, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected the decision and said Israel will continue to defend itself and its citizens against Hamas while adhering to international law. Israeli officials did not respond to a CNBC request for comment. Cases under the Genocide Convention at the court have stretched for years such as with Serbia which took more than 10 years to reach a final decision. Cases relating to genocidal intent are among the most difficult to win evidence must show that the perpetrators have a premeditated intent to destroy a national, ethnic, racial or religious group. The ICJ has ordered Israel to submit a report this month describing how it's complying with the court's orders and to keep evidence of any acts of genocide. Last week, Yoav Gallant, Israel's defense minister, said Israel will not cease airstrikes on Gaza anytime soon. Gallant, who has called Palestinians "human animals," was one of three officials whose past statements the South African legal team's defense used. Francesca Albanese, the U.N. Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territories occupied since 1967, told CNBC last week that she is "not comfortable in knowing nothing of history." "Therefore I know with absolute certainty that in 100 years, Palestinians have steadily been denied all the the three things: justice, human rights, and freedom." watch now Albanese said that regardless of the outcome, the case is an important contribution to mounting international pressure to end the war and is of symbolic significance, adding that the allegations of genocide at the ICJ are not without merit. Vincent Magwenya, spokesperson for South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, told CNBC that the country expects to keep pushing the case at a high level. "We are working together to ensure that the case is successful for the sake of peace in the region and for the sake of many innocent people, women, and children, young and old who are suffering from Israel's decades of occupation and genocide," he said. How did we get here? South Africa began proceedings against Israel in December before the International Court of Justice under the "Application of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in the Gaza Strip." "As a nation that fought and defeated apartheid, we have a particular obligation to stand up for justice and fundamental human rights for all people everywhere," Magwenya told CNBC Sunday. South Africa's legal defense was heard on Jan. 11, and Israel's on the following day at The Hague in the Netherlands. "It is this obligation that informed our application to the International Court of Justice to halt the violence unleashed by Israel on the Gaza Strip," Magwenya added. Magwenya said that as a signatory to the 1948 Genocide Convention, the country carries a responsibility to prevent acts of genocide, wherever they occur. He added their own past "demonstrates South Africa's long history of unwavering solidarity with Palestinians." Other countries that publicly supported South Africa's case include Turkey, Jordan, Brazil, Colombia and Malaysia. That comes as Israeli forces continue a military campaign in the Gaza Strip that has so far claimed more than 27,000 lives, according to the Hamas-run Palestinian Health Ministry. The court also said it was "gravely concerned" about the welfare of the Israeli hostages abducted by Palestinian militant group Hamas during its Oct. 7 terror attacks, of which more than 120 remained in captivity as of Thursday. The world court called for the immediate release of those hostages still in captivity. Precedents Though the ICJ can issue demands on the countries it has done in the past, it does not have the jurisdiction to enforce them or the rulings on disputes between states. On Feb. 26, 2022, two days after Russia invaded Ukraine, the Ukrainian government lodged a case with the World Court under the 1948 Genocide Convention and requested that it order Russia to halt military operations. The following month, the ICJ issued a fast-tracked decision that demanded Russia cease military operations on its neighbor. Back in 2015, after an initial application was submitted in 1999, the court acquitted Serbia of committing genocide against Bosnian Muslims during the 1990s Bosnian war in its final judgment and rejected Bosnia and Croatia's request for reparations. Colorado Politics is published both in print and online. Our website features subscriber-only news stories daily, designed for public policy arena professionals. Member subscribers also receive the weekly print edition of our award-winning newspaper, containing outstanding features and news stories, in their mailboxes every Saturday. Offer a personal message of sympathy... By sharing a fond memory or writing a kind tribute, you will be providing a comforting keepsake to those in mourning. If you have an existing account with this site, you may log in with that below. Otherwise, you can create an account by clicking on the Log in button below, and then register to create your account. So much pressure too much money. Why not skip Valentines Day entirely and celebrate romance whenever it is convenient? That also means you can define romance any way you like self-love perhaps; the romance of long friendships; of sharing a passion, an adventure, or a new experience with those you love most. In case you were wondering, according to History.com, February has long been celebrated as a month of romance and St. Valentines Day. Although no one is certain of the truth behind the Valentine legends, the stories all emphasize his appeal as a sympathetic, heroic, and romantic figure. One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome and defied Emperor Claudius II when he outlawed marriage for young men, believing single men made better soldiers. Valentine, realizing the injustice, continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret and later was killed. Other stories say Valentine was killed for helping Christians escape Roman prisons. Some believe when imprisoned himself, Valentine sent the first valentine greeting after he fell in love with a young girl who visited him before his death, signed From your Valentine. Some believe Valentines Day commemorates the anniversary of Valentines death. Others suggest the idea hundreds of years later was to Christianize a festival that honored Juno, the pagan goddess of love and marriage on Feb. 14; men would draw womens names and court them during the festival. The oldest known valentine still in existence today was a poem written in 1415 by Charles, Duke of Orleans, to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London following his capture at the Battle of Agincourt. By the middle of the 18 th century, it was common for friends and lovers of all social classes to exchange small tokens of affection or handwritten notes, and by 1900 printed cards began to appear. Hallmark first sold Valentines Day cards 1913 and today, 145 million cards are exchanged (not counting those you supply for your childs entire class); some 250 million roses are grown just for the holiday, and 58 million pounds of chocolate are consumed. According to the National Retail Foundation, Americans spent nearly $26 billion on Valentine's Day gifts in 2023. Wow! Of course, there is nothing wrong with cards, flowers, or chocolate. But there are lots of other ways to show your love, including for yourself. If you find yourself unattached and your kids (and grandkids) are elsewhere, sign on for a solo trip you have always wanted to go on. The idea is to choose a trip with like-minded travelers. The Journeys With Purpose team is hosting their first all-women-for-women journey to Kenya on March 20. There are a handful of places available for those interested in a trip focusing on the women working to protect and restore the West African environment. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, which has seen a more than 30 percent increase in solo travelers, has just waived a single supplement on select itineraries in Europe on these all- inclusive trips. For active travelers, small group adventure trips from companies like Backroads, Overseas Adventure Travel, and REI Adventures are guaranteed to satisfy your wanderlust in an atmosphere conducive to making new friends. Backroads and REI both have women-only trips and REI has some designed for the 35 and under crowd. In Slovenia, known for its natural beauty, where the Alps, the Mediterranean and the Pannonian Plain meet in the heart of Europe, St. Valentine's Day is not just a celebration for couples but also a day to express love and appreciation for friends and family. The country embraces the spirit of togetherness, making it a delightful destination for everyone seeking love and connection. Check out the packages at the Slovenian spas and wellness centers. Explore historic town centers with cobblestone streets and unusual cafes and restaurants. (Perhaps deep underground or in the countrys wine region?) Help support Mauis recovery. Respectful travel to Maui is welcomed and encouraged, now more than ever. With the exception of Lahaina, destroyed by the devastating wildfire, Maui is open and there is plenty to see and experience. Visit www.mauifirst.com for suggestions on how to support local businesses. You are likely to find hotel deals. See packages from Pleasant Holidays. If you want bragging rights to be the first somewhere, Naya Travelers experts craft unique experiences far beyond the well-trodden romance resort path. Discover Naya Travelers romance-inspired journeys, a different and refreshing take on couples travel to unchartered destinations, including Cambodia, Myanmar, Kashmir and Ladakh, Peru, Argentina, Uruguay and more. Each curated trip is fully tailor-made. If you opt for a getaway rather than a pricey Valentines Day dinner out, you might even snare a deal. If you ache for a wellness getaway, the Lake Austin Spa Resort is touting a $200 spa and personal experience credit. Stay by Feb. 29 get 20 percent off and a $400 credit. I love the Fairmont Mission Inn in Sonoma, California, in the middle of Wine Country, and famous for its geothermal pools and spa, is offering up to 25 percent off, as long as you book by the end of March and stay by the end of April. (You can also book a second room at half price.) Find your perfect tropical beach with BeachBound Vacations and save $100 with a four- night stay as long as you book in February and travel through the end of August. Visit Washington states San Juan Islands for lodging deals, unique dining specials, shopping experiences and galleries and spectacular scenery. Leave all your stress behind as you take the ferry to San Juan Island, Orcas Island or Lopez Island where you can bike, kayak, gallery hop or possibly see some whales. The islands are home to five species. The best Valentines Day gift: Knowing you have a trip planned. (For more Taking the Kids, visit www.takingthekids.com and also follow TakingTheKids on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram where Eileen Ogintz welcomes your questions and comments. The fourth edition of The Kids Guide to New York City and the third edition of The Kids Guide to Washington D.C. are the latest in a series of 14 books for kid travelers published by Eileen.) After disrupting the AI industry by launching ChatGPT, OpenAIs Chief Executive Officer, Sam Altman, is now looking to reimagine the global semiconductor industry. Alrman hopes to do that by raising $5 trillion to $7 trillion to boost the worlds chip-building capacity, expand its ability to power AI, among other things, according to a Wall Street Journal report. Altman is in talks with the UAE government, SoftBank, and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), among other investors, to raise the massive amount, the report said. As per reports, Altman was earlier in talks with Abu Dhabi-based AI firm G42 and SoftBank Group for a new chip venture envisioned to supply AI chips globally. OpenAI had earlier tied up with G42 to provide AI services in the regional markets. Altmans desire to take control of the chip supply chain will not only help OpenAI ensure improved prices but also control the development of the AI ecosystem. If you look at most successful firms in their categories, they look or design their own chips at a later stage for better price and performance ratio for their specific requirements. For example, Apple and Tesla are designing some of their own chips along with AWS, Google, Microsoft, and Meta. In a similar context, it may make sense for OpenAI to design its own chip for better price and performance, said Pareekh Jain, CEO at Pareekh Consulting. The initiative, if successful, will help Altman create a massive business based on the market needs. This is something similar to Amazon launching an AWS [Amazon Web Services] business to manage the worlds IT infrastructure and software on the cloud. Similarly, this looks like the next step for Altman, Jain said. Massive shortage of AI chips The growing adoption of AI has led to a massive shortage of AI chips or GPUs, which is crippling the growth of the industry. Altman wants to take control of the entire value chain to ensure that the chip shortage doesnt hamper the growth of the AI ecosystem. Nvidia, which had designed the chip used in ChatGPT, is largely believed to be the market leader in AI chips. In the adoption of Generative AI, the biggest bottleneck is the cost and availability of GPU [Graphics Processing Units] chips. If OpenAI can solve this, it will help not only OpenAI but the whole ecosystem in the faster adoption of Generative AI, Jain said. AI infrastructure plays a key role in the training/inferencing of foundation models sitting at the core of the next-gen AI ecosystem, while the advancement and proliferation of AI technologies rely heavily on specialized hardware, particularly AI chips that are optimized for AI tasks, said Charlie Dai, VP, Principal Analyst, Forrester. Geopolitical face-offs for AI chip capabilities It is tough to think of a precedent of an organization generating the kind of funds Altman has in mind for the AI chip initiative. It is safe to conclude that this kind of initiative will likely involve investors from several nations or governments, which can potentially lead to geopolitical conflict zones. The shortage of AI semiconductors has led to a chip war between the US and China, with both countries trying to prevent the other from gaining the upper hand. For instance, the US came up with a chip ban in October 2022, banning the export of AI chips to China. The shortage of AI chips has already cast a shadow over AI innovation, especially in China, due to geopolitical frictions, said Dai. In addition, this kind of initiative will typically take a long time to raise funds as well as to set up manufacturing units. If chip shortage is worrying Altman, this initiative is unlikely to address it in the near term. With the demand outpacing supply for AI hardware especially in compute - entities that have access to hardware first will enjoy the advantage of maturity of the AI models as it gives them time to fine-tune and iterate the model to serve the intended workloads/function/application, said Akshara Bassi, Senior Analyst, Counterpoint. The initiative itself is more of an ambition in the long run instead of a realistic target in the short term, said Dai of Forrester. While it remains to be seen whether Altman will succeed in this ambition or not, it is safe to say that he has successfully ushered the world into an AI era. The idea of raising trillions to control the global AI supply chain sounds extraordinary and will demand all of Altmans business acumen and grit to make it a success. But then Altman is known to disrupt the market and make astonishing and dramatic comebacks. International students should wait until they have obtained all their immigration documents before they travel to Canada. These include the CAQ, study permit or letter of introduction from IRCC, and eTA or TRV, as applicable. Students who travel to Canada without a valid CAQ and study permit or letter of introduction from IRCC may be denied entry into Canada and may not be able to begin their studies. All new international students must provide the university the proper immigration documents in order to remain enrolled at Concordia University. The North Dakota Attorney General's Office is intervening in a lawsuit that challenges how federal regulators have evaluated air quality plans in multiple states. A number of environmental groups brought the lawsuit against the federal Environmental Protection Agency. It alleges the EPA's failure to approve, disapprove or conditionally approve the federally required regional haze plans from about three dozen states -- including North Dakota -- within the necessary period of 12 months has harmed the groups' members who regularly visit parks that are protected from pollution. The suit asks for the EPA to be required to make a decision on the plans "as expeditiously as possible." The EPA has acknowledged in legal documents to not implementing the plans after 12 months have passed, but it does not address whether that means it failed to perform its duties as the Sierra Club alleges. Recent legal filings indicate the two sides are working on a settlement to resolve the matter. Sierra Club declined Tribune requests for comment, as did EPA. The potential for a settlement between EPA and the Sierra Club is in part why the state sought intervention, according to Department of Environmental Quality Environmental Engineer David Stroh, who wrote North Dakota's plan. Stroh said the DEQ, like the environmental groups, wants the EPA to move more quickly in coming to a decision on the state's plan, but it also wants to ensure the speed of the process is the only thing at play. "If we didn't get involved at this stage we would have fear that there would be some behind-the-scenes agreements between EPA and the nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) beyond timelines," he said. Stroh added that the state wants to ensure the case does not concern "whether our plan is approvable, or what technical requirements or limitations or conditions in our plan the NGOs feel should be there." "(Compared to) what we feel should be there, that's likely ripe for debate," he said. Regional Haze Program The state argues in its legal filings that the environmental groups' request puts "North Dakota's Regional Haze Plan in a large bucket along with thirty-three other states." The EPA has run the Regional Haze Program since 1999 with the goal of returning air quality and visibility levels in 156 national parks and wilderness areas to what are considered natural levels by 2064. Areas where haze plans are enforced are referred to as Class I areas. North Dakota's two Class I areas are Theodore Roosevelt National Park in the western Badlands and Lostwood National Wildlife Refuge in the northwest part of the state. The plans crafted by states must also account for how Class I areas in other states could be affected by their emissions. States are required to file plans on reducing haze with the EPA every 10 years. North Dakota's DEQ submitted its most recent plan in August 2022. It was deemed "administratively complete" later that month, but the EPA has not yet issued a decision on whether the plan will be approved. The Attorney General's Office sought intervention in the lawsuit in December, and it was granted due to a lack of opposition from the EPA as well as North Dakota proving its interests were not adequately represented, according to the judge's order. Nevada and the western utilities company PacifiCorp are also intervening. North Dakota plan North Dakota's 2022 plan did not include additional visibility-enhancing emissions controls at power plants or other sources of emissions in North Dakota. DEQ at the time said the state is in line with its visibility goals and that most visibility concerns result from out-of-state wildfires. DEQ Director Dave Glatt in comments to the Tribune referenced state law which prevents the department from including controls in its regional haze plan that it determines would increase costs with little in the way of visibility benefits. That part of the law was added by the 2021 state Legislature. The state's 2022 plan garnered some criticism from environmental groups, who questioned whether it went far enough. Dakota Resource Council Executive Director Scott Skokos said he can't directly speak to Sierra Club's suit. His organization is not party to it. Still, his views represent where the state and environmental groups may diverge. "It should be enforced to the letter of the law and if that means we need to ratchet down some of our coal assets to reduce those emissions temporarily, that's what we're going to need to do and that's not what I want to see happen ... (but) we have all these Class I airsheds that are fairly close to a lot of our emitting plants, so what I would say is that, 'It should be enforced but there's probably some compromise that could be made,'" he said. Badlands Conservation Alliance Executive Director Shannon Straight said he was "not surprised" by the state's actions to involve itself in the case. Straight said his organization is encouraged by some of the state's attempts to reduce pollution, such as the DEQ's decision to seek millions in funding from an EPA program to reduce statewide greenhouse gas emissions. "Now is the time to uphold TR's (Roosevelt's) conservation legacy with greater protections around our lone national park ... and in the Badlands of western North Dakota," he said. "Especially, in the leadup to the new Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library" under development at Medora. Both of North Dakota's U.S. senators praised the approval of the state's intervention. Time and again, North Dakota has been rated as having some of the best air quality in the nation, which has been achieved through a state-led plan, not federal mandates, U.S. Sen. John Hoeven, R-N.D., said in a statement. "Thats why we were able to secure prior approval by the EPA of North Dakotas regional haze plan, which has been proven effective and is still on track to meet or exceed its emissions targets." North Dakota's air quality clocks in at 22nd best out of the 50 states, according to U.S. News and World Report. The rankings are population-weighted and the data comes from the EPA. Officials from the state Attorney General's Office and other environmental organizations involved in the case did not provide comment to Tribune requests. One of two Bismarck-Mandan men charged with a dozen crimes following an alleged drive-by shooting spree last year pleaded guilty on all counts Thursday. Marcus Johnson, 21, of Mandan, entered guilty pleas to eight separate counts of conspiracy to commit reckless endangerment, one count of reckless endangerment and three counts of conspiracy to commit criminal mischief. He and another man, Elijah Infante, of Bismarck, are accused of shooting a .22-caliber rifle at homes, cars and businesses while driving in Bismarck and Burleigh County last October. All but one of the charges carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison. The remaining count carries a sentence of up to nearly a year in jail. Johnson's pleas were entered in an "open" fashion, meaning there is no agreement between prosecutors and his defense attorney. A judge ordered a presentence investigation including mental health and chemical dependency evaluations. Sentencing will be scheduled later. The charges against Johnson and Infante were filed after incidents occurring the weekend of Oct. 13-15. Police and sheriff's deputies responded to a number of residences in the Sattler Sunrise addition in Bismarck and a number of neighborhoods outside city limits located north of state Highway 1804 and west of U.S. Highway 83. Investigators determined more than two dozen rounds struck homes, business and vehicles. While there were no injuries reported, one round allegedly fired by the duo entered a home through a window, missing a sleeping child by mere feet, authorities said. Johnson remains in custody on a $50,000 cash bond. The attorney listed in court records did not immediately respond to a Tribune request for comment. Infante also remains in custody on a $50,000 cash bond. His trial is scheduled to begin April 23. The North Dakota Supreme Court on Thursday dealt a blow to local efforts to save the Bismarck-Mandan Rail Bridge over the Missouri River, while handing a victory to BNSF Railway as it continues work on replacing the aging historic structure. Justices unanimously ruled that the Friends of the Rail Bridge citizen group did not follow the proper process in challenging two state permits that cleared the way for construction of a new bridge. The court upheld South Central District Judge Jackson Lofgren's dismissal of the nonprofit's lawsuit last June. Lofgren's ruling upheld a decision by the state Department of Water Resources in April 2023 to grant BNSF Railway two sovereign lands permits -- the final hurdle the railroad needed to clear to launch construction of a modern bridge it says is needed for safety and commerce, and raze the current structure once the project is done. "Were pleased with the courts decision affirming the previous dismissal of FORBs challenge," railroad spokeswoman Amy McBeth said Thursday in a statement to the Tribune. "Construction of the new railroad bridge is underway. When the project is complete, our new railroad bridge will safely and efficiently serve our customers in the state and throughout the country for another 100 years. This is a massive infrastructure project privately funded and maintained that the states energy, agriculture and construction industries rely on, and were pleased with this outcome." FORB has said it does not oppose a new bridge, but the group has been fighting for years to save the existing structure in the hopes it could be turned into a pedestrian bridge tourist attraction. FORB attorney Bill Delmore told the Tribune on Thursday that "naturally we're disappointed" with the ruling, and that the group would be meeting in coming days to decide on a path forward. One option would be to ask the Supreme Court for reconsideration, he said. The bridge was built in 1883, with the spans replaced in 1905. BNSF last year began building a new $100 million bridge just to the north of it, with plans to have it operating in late summer 2026. The current bridge will then be dismantled, a process expected to take about a year. The appeal Sovereign lands of North Dakota are defined as areas lying within the ordinary high-water marks of navigable lakes and streams. The two permits approved by the state Department of Water Resources last April OK'd construction of a new bridge and removal of the old. They marked the end of a yearslong effort by BNSF to obtain all of the necessary state and federal permits for its project, and the railroad launched construction two months later. FORB in May appealed the permit decision to state district court, citing several reasons, including the group's allegation that the department didn't adequately consider the possible impacts of the bridge project. The group has long touted the 141-year-old bridges historical, cultural and aesthetic attributes and listed what it believes are legal reasons for keeping the structure, including its contention that the state -- not the railroad -- owns the bridge. Water Resources and BNSF sought dismissal of the case, arguing in part that FORB had not exhausted its administrative remedies. Lofgren ultimately ruled in their favor, saying that under state law someone "aggrieved by an action or decision" of Water Resources must request a hearing before the department within 30 days. The law says that only after a hearing is held or denied can the matter be appealed to district court. FORB maintained that a December 2022 letter it sent the department requesting a hearing on the then-proposed permits, along with public gatherings that Water Resources held in February and March, fulfilled that requirement. Lofgren disagreed, noting that the letter and gatherings occurred before the department's decision to grant the permits -- not after the alleged aggrieving action or decision. The Supreme Court concurred with that decision, stating "It is undisputed that appellants did not request a hearing within 30 days (or at any time) after DWR's April 24, 2023 issuance of the permits." Delmore on Thursday said he understood the justices' reasoning but worries about the impact of the ruling. "When you have a major permit and ... it cannot be appealed directly to district court -- that they would have to seek a specialized adjudicative hearing with witnesses and attorneys -- I think that's somewhat of a dangerous precedent," he said. Bridge ownership Logren's dismissal of the appeal on technical grounds did not address FORB's main claim -- that the state owns not just the riverbed but also any permanent fixtures that were attached at the time of statehood, which would include the rail bridge. The group cites the Public Trust and Equal Footing doctrines, which include in part the principle that the government owns and protects certain natural resources for public use. The group argues that under North Dakota law, state property deemed significant by the State Historical Society director can't be destroyed without approval of the State Historical Board. FORB attorneys have maintained that then-Society Director Claudia Berg in 2017 stated the bridge was an important historical structure "eligible for the National Register of Historic Places," and that current Society Director Bill Peterson in February 2023 determined the bridge is a "significant" historical resource. The State Historical Board during a March 2023 meeting discussed whether it had the authority to block destruction of the bridge under state law. Attorney General Drew Wrigley informed the group that it did not have that authority since the bridge is privately owned. The board then passed a resolution expressing support for preserving the bridge but noting that it did not have authority or expertise to determine ownership. BNSF maintains it hold clears title to the bridge and has called FORBs state-ownership argument legally absurd. FORB last July in a separate action asked the Supreme Court to take "original jurisdiction" in the matter, meaning the justices would decide ownership of the bridge. The court in September declined to do so. That meant the matter before the high court came down to just the issue of whether Lofgren was correct in dismissing the appeal. "Appellants failed to perfect their appeal because they did not request a hearing under (state law), and therefore the court lacked subject matter jurisdiction to hear the appeal," justices wrote in affirming Lofgren's decision. Preserving the legacy A 2019 feasibility study conducted by North Dakota State University estimated the cost of turning the existing rail bridge into a pedestrian bridge at just under $7 million. FORB said the unsettled question of bridge ownership prevented it from raising money for that purpose. BNSF last year provided $500,000 for a grant program to help document the history and legacy of the rail bridge. The State Historical Society oversaw the Bis-Man Rail Bridge Fund and accepted applications for salvage, exhibits, special projects and educational activities directly related to the history of the bridge. The North Dakota Railroad Museum is getting $5,000 to create an exhibit about the bridge; the Mandan Historical Society will receive $69,250 to create four videos about the current bridge and the new bridge project, and the city of Mandan will receive $196,750 to build a plaza area and welcome sign incorporating salvaged pieces of the existing bridge on the east end of Memorial Highway. The $229,000 not directly awarded will be used for salvaging pieces of the rail bridge that will then be used by the city of Mandan. BNSF will give the funds directly to a construction company to do the work. The structure cannot be removed using explosives under the terms of a water quality certification for the project from the state Department of Environmental Quality. Its been a weird season -- weve had really short snow-making windows and we havent had as many (snow-making) hours as normal. -- Andy Beck, mountain operations manager at Huff Hills Ski Area south of Bismarck-Mandan, which has struggled amid unseasonably warm weather. q q q "It's been here for more than 100 years. It's a landmark in the area." -- Tappen Mayor Brice Barnick, after fire destroyed a grain elevator that had stood for more than a century in the Kidder County town. q q q According to Splonskowski, following his understanding of federal law will inevitably result in criminal prosecution under North Dakota law because he will have to forego his duty to follow North Dakota election law. This is deeply concerning to the court that an elected official openly advocates for violating the law he was elected to enforce because he has independently concluded it contradicts federal law. -- U.S. District Judge Daniel Traynor, dismissing a lawsuit filed by Burleigh County Auditor Mark Splonskowski challenging the acceptance of mail-in ballots after Election Day. q q q Todays ceremony celebrates the raising of the structure. Its going to be a state-of-the-art polytechnic center essential to the economic future of North Dakota." -- Doug Jensen, president of Bismarck State College, which recently laid the final steel beam for a $47 million Polytechnic Education Center that's set to open in November. q q q Its an honor to lead the talented BNI team where everyone contributes to our goal of safe, environmentally sound and responsible mining. We have the people in place to take advantage of opportunities that can secure the future of lignite mining for years to come. When coupled with the resources accessible to BNI, Im confident in the companys future and its place in North Dakota mining. -- Mike Heger, a 17-year veteran of Bismarck-based BNI Energy, after being named the company's new president. q q q North Dakota's airports achieved an impressive 11% annual increase in passengers during 2023 and have officially rebounded from many of the pandemic-induced challenges. The numbers tell a story of determination and growth while also showcasing the state's commitment to providing our citizens and guests with strong and reliable air service. As we look to the future, the aviation industry will continue to support our diversifying economy while also providing incredible career opportunities for the next generation." -- North Dakota Aeronautics Commissioner Kyle Wanner, announcing that more than 1 million people boarded planes at North Dakotas eight commercial service airports last year. q q q Some of these corridors might not feel busy until 10 years from now. We know in the future there will be people living in those areas that will be able to benefit from (businesses) being more neighborhood commercial. -- Andrew Stromme, city planner for Mandan, which has placed a one-year moratorium on self-storage buildings as the city studies its planning codes. q q q This result is reflective of the offices commitment to public safety in Indian Country. Retaliation against people who witness crimes and tell the truth to law enforcement will not be tolerated. This sentence will serve as a strong deterrent to anyone who thinks they can use violence to evade justice. -- U.S. Attorney Mac Schneider, after the sentencing to prison of one of four people who have been convicted of or pleaded guilty to gun violence on the Spirit Lake Reservation in 2021 and 2022. q q q "In the last eight days we've had almost 2,000 pages of new material filed with this case." -- North Dakota Public Service Commissioner Randy Christmann, explaining why it's taking a long time to schedule a public hearing as Summit Carbon Solutions continues pursuing state permission for its planned regional carbon dioxide pipeline. Greeces former finance minister, Yanis Varoufakis, now standing as a leftist candidate for the European Commission presidency, told the EU on Tuesday (26 March) to stop blaming China for an unbalanced economic relationship because the playing field was never levelled in Europe. His comments, made at an event organised by the Bruegel think-tank, came as French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker met in Paris with Chinese President Xi Jinping to discuss bilateral relations. On Tuesday, the Commission also issued a recommendation to bolster cybersecurity in the deployment of the next generation of mobile technology (5G). The proposal came in response to the potential risks of cyberespionage, especially by Chinese companies. Asked about Chinas Huawei, which is at the heart of the controversy, Varoufakis enthusiastically encouraged member states to use its products. The idea that there will be spying on us is laughable, he said. Who was exactly tapping Angela Merkels communications? It was not the Chinese, was it? It was our great friends from the other side of the Atlantic, the economist added. Commission rolls out 5G recommendations, has 'specific concerns' about Huawei The European Commission has laid out plans for a coordinated EU approach towards the next generation of mobile broadband networks, 5G, following concerns about China aired by member states during last weeks European Council summit. Varoufakis criticised Europes growing nervousness toward China and the renewed efforts to rebalance the bilateral relationship. Echoing Macrons comments from last Friday, he said that Chinese investment came to Europe because of the monetary and fiscal policies that depressed the European economy. We are idiots. Dont blame the Chinese for this We created a vacuum and the Chinese are filling it, he said. EU institutions, diplomats and companies representatives have complained over the past months about certain Chinese practices, including the forced transfer of technology, the steal of intellectual property and the economic barriers to access the local market. Varoufakis recommended that Europe stop demonising China. We Greeks have learnt one thing over the last ten years. It is important to look at ourselves in the mirror before we blame anyone else, he said. He disregarded the concerns about the Communist Partys strong hand in the Chinese economy and added that European companies also benefited from public subsidies. EU urges China to progress on demands to dispel 'frustration' The EU will give Chinese leaders a comprehensive list of demands next month to address the growing frustration among Europeans, and to improve bilateral cooperation as it reaches a critical junction, various senior EU officials explained on Wednesday (20 March). As the Europeans want to rebalance the bilateral relationship with China, he said that the level playing field was never levelled in Europe. The difference is that they have been doing it well. We depend on them, he insisted as he added that the two forces that kept capitalism alive last year were the US Federal Reserve and the Chinese economy. We are children, not adults yet. We should start looking at the world how it is, he stated. New investment plan Varoufakis is the lead candidate of European Spring, a coalition of left-wing parties, for the European elections in late May. Varoufakis: There is no real European Left, I am running against them Yanis Varoufakis, the Spitzenkandidat for leftist Democracy in Europe (DiEM25), told EURACTIV Germany it was painful but he would run against the European Left, which is not united and civilised. He defended as his flagship initiative for the campaign a new investment plan financed by the European Investment Bank and backed by the ECB, worth 5% of Europes GDP. Things are better than in 2010 but that is not saying much, he said, as investment continues to be spectacularly low. Varoufakis argued that the 500-billion firepower of the European Investment Bank could help to create high-quality green jobs. The ECB would help to control any pressure from the markets and maintain the yields of the bonds issued by the EIB under control. This proposal would be at the heart of his programme for the next five year-political mandate. As his coalition of national parties is not polling among the top ones, the Greek economist said that, after the elections, his alliance would we willing to support any candidate for Commission president who agrees with them on this issue. We dont care who is sitting in that seat as long as they agreed on the way forward, he said. Although the European economy has returned to solid growth figures, investment remains below the pre-crisis level. Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker also made of investment a top priority when he took over in 2014 and launched his own initiative (Juncker plan). Juncker described his initiative as a success, as it helped to mobilise more than the initial target of 315 billion. EIB and Commission defend Juncker plan following auditors' criticism The European Investment Bank and the European Commission were forced to defend their flagship Juncker investment plan, following a report of the European Court of Auditors published on Tuesday (29 January) that questioned its usefulness. However, Varoufakis said the Juncker plan was a fraud because most of the money was redeployed and it worked through a complex system of guarantees rather than direct grants. Our proposal will be plain vanilla, he said. He explained that he had already made this proposal when he was Greeces finance minister in the first half of 2015 and his idea was not rejected by the EIB board. But it never took off at the Council No eurozone budget Once a consensus is reached on this new investment package, Varoufakis would like to address more complex issues such as Germanys massive trade surplus and a new European Constitution to achieve a democratic and transparent federal Europe. Before that, he would not back the idea of a eurozone budget, seen by supporters as a fiscal tool to protect the euro area against sudden economic shocks. In his view, Marcons proposal for a euro area budget was insignificant from a macroeconomic standpoint. In order to have a significant instrument, we need democratic oversight. That would come only once a new Constitution is in place, he said. But in order to get there, the bloc needs first to balance the region with his new investment plan. [Edited by Zoran Radosavljevic and Sam Morgan] How Beautiful It Is By Tian Yu Zhi How beautiful it is, that I follow you this far, with only The sound of syllables, metaphors, images I feel your gazes, winks, smiles, hugs, kisses Your wiping off tears from my face Across the sky, and clouds One day, I will meet you, to Touch your eyes, lips, cheeks, chest Cuddle up in bed with you, Talk about the thousand poems We wrote to each other, The stories behind each piece, The supporting actors, always colorful The antagonists, who have turned A romantic movie into a Hollywood drama, certainly, The Snow White, and the lovely Seven Dwarfs Or, I may not meet with you after all Still, how beautiful it is, my love 2024.2.9 Dragon New Year Eve * "my love", https://youtu.be/hpz2TLDwQho?feature=shared When Tucker Carlson went to the Kremlin he had a function well known to history. He was to be the stooge of the tyrant, the dictaphone to the dictator and a traitor to journalism. In his fawning, guffawing, slack-jawed happiness at having a scoop, he betrayed his viewers and listeners around the world. He didnt ask tough questions. He didnt ask Putin why even now he is using the most brutal means of modern warfare to maim and murder innocent Ukrainian civilians. He didnt take him to task for the torture, the rapes, the blowing up of kindergartens all of it wholly unnecessary and unprovoked. Not once did he even try to dam the flow of lies from Putin. Instead he gasped fanboyishly at Putins alleged erudition, boneheadedly accepting the Russian leaders mixture of semi-masticated Wikipedia and outright falsehood such as the bizarre (and ominous) suggestion that Poland was somehow responsible for her own partition and destruction in 1939 as if Russia had had no part in the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact*. Vladimir Putin was interviewed by US journalist Tucker Carlson at the Kremlin in Moscow this week He did not challenge the ludicrous suggestion that the UK government persuaded the Ukrainians to fight on, rather than surrender to Putins tender mercies, in the spring of 2022. History Corner *Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact: A secret 1939 agreement stipulating mutual non-aggression between the Soviet Union and Germany **The Schieswig-Holstein Question: A complex 19th Century diplomatic controversy between Denmark, Prussia, and Austria over the status of two duchies, Schleswig (Danish in the north and German in the south) and Holstein (German) Advertisement As every member of the Ukrainian government will confirm, from Zelensky down, nothing and no one could have stopped those lion-hearted Ukrainians from fighting for their country and nothing will. In the last two years Putin has conclusively demolished his own thesis. By his reckless and criminal violence he has proved himself completely wrong. He has revealed that Ukraine is not only a country, but a great one, and by his stupid miscalculation he has helped engender a patriotic feeling that is stronger and more unquenchable than any in the world. But of course Tucker Carlson didnt make that point. He allowed the Russian leader to dilate for half an hour on the supposed historic non-existence of Ukraine then gushed about Putins encyclopaedic knowledge. Not since George Galloway went to Baghdad and hailed the indefatigability of Saddam Hussein have we seen such a display of bum-sucking servility to a tyrant. Ukrainian artillery fires towards the front line near Bakhmut during the war against Russia. Nothing could have stopped these lion-hearted Ukrainians from fighting for their country - and nothing will In a way it is unfair to blame Carlson for his abject performance. He was not there to challenge. He was just the medium, the sewer, the hose by which the untreated slurry of Putins message could be sprayed where Putin wants it most over the fertile heartlands of America. The message to the American people was simple. This is not your problem, Putin was saying. Its a European problem. Stay out of this conflict, let me finish it off and soon we can all be at peace. It is a message that the Americans have heard before. In June 1940, shortly after Hitler invaded France, the newspapers of WR Hearst secured an interview with the German dictator, mainly because Hearst had long shown sympathies with Hitler. The chosen journalist was a German-American called Von Wiegand, who had already conducted several positive interviews with the Fuhrer. Von Wiegand was duly ushered into a captured French chateau, where he found Hitler, von Ribbentrop and others, and with the help of detailed notes that he had prepared Hitler gave the U.S. newspaper reporter his uninterrupted historical wisdom. This is about Europe, not America, said Hitler. The Americans have nothing to fear from Nazi Germany and no reason to interfere. He didnt particularly want to conquer Paris, he said; he didnt even want to be waging war on the European continent. He just wanted to vindicate the ancient rights of the German-speaking peoples. Does that sound familiar? Exactly like Hitler, Putin now drones on about the alleged injustices suffered by speakers of his native tongue. Listen to Putin talking about Russophones in the Donbas, or Hungarophones in western Ukraine, and you can hear Hitler talking about the Sudetenland or Alsace-Lorraine. Of course Putin kicked off the interview with his half-hour monologue about Yaroslav The Wise and Rurik and the events of the 9th century; because he wants to give American viewers and voters the impression that this is all some baffling euro-problem, some six-of-one-half-a-dozen-of-the-other Schleswig-Holstein** question that goes back hundreds of years, when the truth is as bald as Putin himself. The Russian leader chose to invade a sovereign and independent European country with no justification other than his arrogant desire to crush that country and to rebuild the Soviet Union. Like Hitler, he is of course lying about his future intentions. After all, he lied bare-facedly about his intention to invade Ukraine. He told the world, he told me personally, that he wasnt going to invade Ukraine, only weeks before giving the orders for the tanks to roll in. Why on earth should he be trusted now to respect any peace deal even if the Ukrainians tried to do one? He obviously cant be trusted over Poland, or the Baltic states, or anywhere in the vast periphery of the former Soviet Union. So I pray that the people of the U.S. are able to see through last nights unholy charade of an interview. I know how many U.S. congress men and women have been fans of Tucker Carlson, and I say: remember Charles Lindbergh, remember the America Firsters, remember how many American legislators at first opposed involvement in the war with Hitler. Well, they were wrong then, and the Tucker Carlsonites are grievously wrong about Putin today. To all those Republicans who are currently blocking aid to Ukraine, I say, for Gods sake remember who you are. You are the heirs of Ronald Reagan, the leaders of the last best hope of earth. You cannot make America great again by selling out Ukraine and allowing Putin to use violence to rebuild the Soviet empire. Vladimir Putin told Boris Johnson personally that he wasnt going to invade Ukraine, only weeks before giving the orders for the tanks to roll in On the contrary, by investing only a fraction of the U.S. defence budget, you can help those valiant Ukrainians to turn the tide, put Putin back in his box and therefore help secure the Euro-Atlantic area for a generation, without actually risking a single U.S. soldier. You can show the world that trying to change borders by force will lead to disaster; because the greatest lie of all and the one Putin hoped most to project by his interview is that the Russian leader is bound to win. He is no more invincible than Adolf Hitler; in fact, he is bound to lose. He has already suffered colossal losses, but that is not the point. Whatever Ukrainian territory he temporarily occupies, he can never conquer their spirit. I hope and believe that if President Trump is elected again he will confound his critics, turn his party round and complete the work that he began when he became the first U.S. President to give arms to the Ukrainians. I say that because in the end all U.S. Presidents know that our collective security is indivisible. In the end the Americans can be relied upon to do the right thing, having exhausted as the old saying has it all the available alternatives. Tucker Carlson did us all a favour last night in the sense that he proffered the alternative a Putin victory, the destruction of Ukraine and the descent of much of Europe, once again, into darkness and fear. It cannot and must not happen. Gregg Wallace is REALLY UPSET because a lot of people seem to find the way he spends his weekends rather odd. After rising at 5am, the former greengrocer and barrow boy reads a book about a Russian nobleman for an hour, heads to the gym (which opens early just for him), works out and then dashes off to the local Harvester to shovel down a huge fry-up with his PA at 10.30am. Ninety minutes later, the telly presenter and recent lifestyle guru is back at home eating a healthy home-made lunch with his lovely wife and her Italian parents. That's a lot to digest. I worked with Gregg when competing on two series of Celebrity Masterchef, and got to know him pretty well, from his noisy rants onscreen to his recent obsession with fitness. You may find it surprising that after years in the brutal world of telly, I'm not frightened of ANYONE, but any encounter with Gregg can be a difficult experience. I'll be treading on eggshells and offence can easily be taken. He's thin-skinned, a combination of bravado and strident self-promotion allied with low self-esteem and sensitivity. A man who goes on the attack with his ghastly jokes and foghorn voice (I know, pot and kettle) before you can get a word in edgeways. When he sees me, he always gets a putdown in first. I can deal with that, but then starts blabbering on without drawing breath about whatever he's trying to flog. He clearly thinks my job is to give Gregg space and shut up! And don't ever criticise - he'll suddenly morph into sarky mean Gregg at the drop of a hat. God forbid an interviewer is granted equal time in any encounter. Gregg Wallace is REALLY UPSET because a lot of people seem to find the way he spends his weekends rather odd This time around, the talking tannoy is upset because some nasty souls on social media criticised him for implying he only had his adorable son to please his wife Anna, 21 years his junior. In the excruciating description of his weekend, he appears to set aside just a couple of hours to play with his adorable son Sid who has been diagnosed with non-verbal autism. If you read the entire piece, it's clear he loves his son, and a touching bit of honesty about being the trials of being an older dad has been taken out of context. Gregg is steaming (I suspect) because people are poking fun at his preposterous attempts at self-improvement - the step-counting, the manifesting, the interest in history, the War Games. He obviously agreed to the article to promote his business interests, managing to plug his healthy living website (annual subscription 89.99), the local branch of Harvester, his upcoming series of BBC1's Masterchef, his new podcast A Piece of Cake, and his local fishmonger. Fair enough. Anyone stupid enough to set out their daily routine is bound to look like a pretentious twat to the rest of us loafers. Remember Hollywood star and former rapper Mark Wahlberg revealing he woke up at 2.30am to pray, finally going to bed at 7.30pm and spending most of the time when he wasn't praying working out in the gym or freezing in a cryochamber to fight the ageing process. It was hilarious. Mind you, he's worth something like $450million now, so the praying worked. I do not get up at 5am and never go to sleep till midnight. I certainly don't head to a Harvester for anything I can make myself but, according to Gregg, his time is so precious he prepares just one meal a week for the family. My day is as random as yours. I shout at rubbish on the telly and waste ages trying to beat a computer at scrabble. I moan at my cabbage plants for not growing, so I suppose Gregg and I have some little habits in common. Not enough to get me a job hosting a major series on BBC1 though! This unlikely Casanova has even managed to get a gig promoting Valentine's Day - posing naked apart from thousands of strategically placed red roses Here's the astonishing truth: BBC bosses bloody love Gregg Wallace. He's never off the screen. No woman of his age could ever compete with the cheery cockney, certainly not one wearing glasses with a bald head shouting at the top of their voice. It doesn't seem to matter that many female viewers find Gregg a bit weird - and his blokey humour can occasionally land him in trouble. He left the highly successful BBC2 series Inside the Factory in 2023 (after presenting it for five years) following reports that he made some female staff 'feel uncomfortable' when filming at the Nestle factory in York. Gregg was distraught, saying 'I use humour to relax peopleI never set out to offend'. But his joking can be a bit brutal, designed to put off the Masterchef contestants and anyone he thinks is a threat- this is definitely a Marmite character. No female presenter would ever be tolerated for being so rude, but look at Alan Sugar double standards! Do BBC bosses cut Gregg some slack because he's from the working class and they're terrified that critics see them as too middle class: Hampstead talking to Chiswick? Could this obsession with attracting lower income blokes to watch the BBC be the reason Paddy McGuinness appeared on Question Time this week? Although there were some complaints, Paddy did not come across negatively and attracted plenty of compliments for his opinions on Labour's chances of winning the next election. If Greg has had a weakness in the past, it's women. Like me, he's has been married four times. Wife number one left after just six weeks. Wife two - Denise, a former pastry chef - is the mother of his eldest children, Tom and Libby. How Gregg met his subsequent partners is somewhat unusual. Wife number three, Heidi Brown, a teacher, caught his attention when she asked him a question on Twitter about celery (really) and although they married a year later, it lasted just 15 months. Current wife Anna came to Greg's attention when she tweeted asking if rhubarb really went with duck. Greg admits he was impressed by her photo and one thing led to another. They became engaged and married in 2016, with his co-host from Masterchef, John Torode, acting as best man. Having failed in business three times, Greg is clearly determined this time around his new ventures promoting healthy living and weight loss should succeed. But he doesn't have to tell us he's an amateur historian, a keen reader, an avid step counter and that he had shed half his body weight. This unlikely Casanova has even managed to get a gig promoting Valentine's Day - posing naked apart from thousands of strategically placed red roses. Funded by Smarty Mobile, he'll be handing out free bouquets tomorrow on London's South Bank. Don't all rush. The Duchess of Sussex's trip to Dublin in 2013 when she tried her hand at pouring Guinness occurred only after Trinity College debating society failed to entice a more famous actor, according to a college student blog. 'After inviting her it was decided she wasn't important enough to become an honorary patron, so we shoved her something called a Bram Stoker Medal named after the former society member who wrote Dracula,' it records. Meghan Markle during a visit to Belfast in March 2018 Trinity College Dublin (Stock image), where Meghan Markle was invited for a visit in 2013 'With hindsight, considering she might yet rival Princess Diana for fame and star power, that was bit of a mistake. But she still seemed pretty happy to get the little plastic medal in a box.' Poignantly, she displayed the trinket proudly in her Suits dressing room. Enthusing about his long-time bond with the King, throttlebottom Stephen Fry doesn't mention severely testing that friendship after admitting in his 2014 memoir that he'd secretly snorted cocaine at Buckingham Palace. Asked whether Charles had known at the time, Fry replied: 'Well, of course not... but he does now. I'm certainly not expecting the Order of the Thistle or any great honour of state to be falling about my head.' Pondering on mortality, Gyles Brandreth says he has abandoned plans for burial. 'Graveyards can be pretty bleak in winter. Headstones can be moved or vandalised and the inscription often fades away,' he says, explaining that he now wants to bequeath his ashes to a notable artist... 'and invite them to mix a bit of me into their paint so that I might end up on one of their canvases.' Might formaldehyde aficionado Damien Hirst stuff Brandreth's ashes into a dead shark and call it The Physical Impossibility Of Gyles Without A Silly Jumper? Gyles Brandreth on This Morning on July 17 2023 On the eve of the Tate Modern retrospective of work by Yoko Ono, pictured, former Channel 4 arts head Waldemar Januszczak blames the TV station's managers for scrapping Yoko's giant marble sculpture of a woman's leg for C4's HQ. 'At the last minute the management ogres stamped their foot and said no,' wails Waldemar, who commissioned the piece. 'It wasn't the money: Yoko was going to pay for it all. It was the idea of a giant woman's leg masquerading as art. They thought it silly.' Not as doltish as Channel 4's Naked Attraction, surely? Musing on the official decision not to tell Charles's grandfather, George VI, that he had a fatal cancer, Charles Moore writes in The Spectator: 'It remains a crime to 'compass the death of the Sovereign'... meaning simply to imagine it, the reason being that such talk often had treasonable intent.' Murky waters. Funeral-faced actor Michael Jayston, who has died at 88, was a practical joker who once received a long reply from London Zoo after he posed as a pensioner with a parrot that once had a vocabulary of 1,500 words but had developed a 'seizure of the tongue'. He wasn't as lucky with Dame Thora Hird. She didn't respond to the suggestive love letters he wrote in the guise of a randy retired colonel. In the end it was no contest. Tucker Carlson, bloviating broadcaster for the pro-Trump MAGA movement, was blown out of the water by President Putin, dictator of all the Russias. Carlson thought he was doing the Russian leader a favour by going to Moscow to give him a platform to explain why he invaded Ukraine and the multiple conspiracy theories associated with it, which Carlson and the MAGA cult uncritically lap up. But Putin did Carlson no favours. Right from the get-go Putin hijacked the interview with an interminable discourse on Russian history which started in the 9th century and took over half an hour to get to the 20th century, much less Putins invasion of Ukraine in early 2022, which took almost another half hour. If this is how Putin treats his friends you can understand why his enemies fear him. He even teased Carlson about once trying to join the CIA. Carlson, bar a couple of feeble interjections, just sat there with an increasingly pained expression as he realised what was meant to be his great broadcasting coup Putins first interview with Western media since the invasion was disappearing down the Swanee. Far from being a great meeting of minds between Kremlin leader and Kremlin lover, it looked as if Carlson, whose pain was turning to panic as he realised he couldnt stop Putin pontificating, had been taken hostage by a lugubrious and deranged Russian uncle, forced to listen for ever to his ramblings. It must have been torture (something at which the Putin regime is particularly adept). Those of us diligently watching this two-hour snooze fest (so you dont have to) were rapidly losing the will to live. ANDREW NEIL: Carlson just sat there with an increasingly pained expression as he realised what was meant to be his great broadcasting coup was disappearing down the Swanee At a time when it is fashionable to disparage traditional broadcasting, this Cecil B de Mille of an interview, which went out on X, the digital platform formerly known as Twitter, and Carlsons own website, made me nostalgic for the old-fashioned, well-researched, closely curated, focused inquisitions of established broadcasters at their best. In the end it was Carlson who brought the encounter to a close (in my experience its usually the politician who wants to end it, especially if theyre on the ropes). Putin offered to keep talking. But an exhausted Carlson could clearly take no more. He surrendered. Its hard to blame him. As a broadcast interviewer whos interrogated leading politicians on both sides of the Atlantic for several decades, with a reputation for being well-briefed and robust (I prefer fair but forensic), I readily concede this was not an easy gig for Carlson, even if he had brought it on himself. Putins interminable history lesson was revisionist, resurrecting Russian nationalist myths long discarded by proper historians, which he deployed to argue Ukraine had always really been part of Russia. But if Carlson had challenged him on any of this we might still be stuck dissecting the 9th century and Putin would still be talking. No self-respecting interviewer, however, would surely have let Putin away with the claim that it wasnt Hitler but the Poles who started World War Two. Yet Carlson left that unchallenged. Again, you could argue that there was nothing to be gained by getting bogged down in history. But Carlson was equally unchallenging when it came to Putins more bizarre claims and outright lies about contemporary events. He claimed he withdrew Russian troops from north of Kyiv at the start of the invasion in 2022 as part of a peace deal, on which Ukraine then reneged. This is nonsense. Russia retreated with its tail between its legs because of unexpected fierce Ukrainian resistance. But Carlson let it go. We did not start this war, Putin claimed without batting an eyelid [the invasion in 2022] was an attempt to stop it. Its a claim akin to George Orwell calling the propaganda ministry in his 1984, a novel about totalitarianism, the Ministry of Truth. Carlson offered not a word against the lie. Putin said the purpose of the invasion was the 'denazification' of Ukraine. This is an oft-repeated Kremlin talking point. Again, it went unchallenged. Carlson might have pointed out that if theres anything that needs to be denazified its Putins increasingly totalitarian regime. But that would have spoiled the mood. Another well-worn piece of Kremlin propaganda that the invasion was in response to NATOs eastward expansion was repeated several times by Putin. Each time Carlson nodded in agreement. He never once pointed out the eastward expansion had stopped long before the invasion. Putin was even allowed to get away with the absurd claim that the invasion had been provoked by Ukraine getting rid of a pro-Kremlin stooge as its leader in 2014. That might explain why he annexed Crimea soon after. But he didnt invade Ukraine till 2022. Carlson was unchallenging when it came to Putins more bizarre claims and outright lies about contemporary events Putin claimed that Russia 'did not start' the war with Ukraine in his interview with Carlson, who did not challenge his take Even more remarkable than the lies Putin was allowed to tell unchallenged, were the questions Carlson didnt ask. Nothing about Russias barbaric war crimes in Ukraine, the forced removal of Ukrainian children to Russia, the constant aerial attacks on civilian areas, killing thousands, the internal reign of terror over which Putin now presides in Russia, the long jail sentences for peaceful protestors, the locking up and killing of opponents, the return of the gulag and forced labour. On all of this, not a word. It was if Carlson had interviewed Hitler in 1944 and not bothered to ask about the concentration camps. But then Carlson had his own agenda to feed Putin with the red meat so beloved by his MAGA crowd back home for the Russian autocrat to chew on and regurgitate for their delectation. Putin was encouraged to claim that the CIA had tried to overthrow the Russian government and was behind the blowing up of the Nord stream gas pipeline. No evidence was presented for either assertion but Carlson accepted them at face value pressing Putin only on why he wasnt making more of these claims because they play into the Carlson/MAGA conspiracy theory that America is secretly run by a deep state, in which the CIA is a key player and which only Donald Trump can unravel. Carlson couldnt get enough of Putin on this apparently ubiquitous US deep state: Twice youve described US presidents making decisions and then being undercut by their agency heads. So it sounds like youre describing a system thats not run by the people who are elected, in your telling. By this stage even Putin was embarrassed by the soft balls being lobbed at him. At no time did Putin need to labour his propaganda position that at least parts of Ukraine are his. Carlson did that for him: Eastern Ukraine is actually your land he tells Putin, helpfully. Perhaps the most bonkers question was when Carlson asked: So do you see the supernatural at work as you look out across whats happening in the world now? So do you see God at work? But theres method to this madness. The otherwise curious appeal of this Russian autocrat among Americas hard right is because they see him, however ludicrously, as the worlds last, unstinting defender of Christian values against all they hate or fear migrants (especially Muslim migrants), gays, transgender folk, secret forces out to thwart them, global elites. There were two possible scoops (if true) in this turgid stew: that Bill Clinton once told him it was possible Russia could join NATO, only to be knocked back by his advisers (that deep state again); and that Boris Johnson, when British prime minister, had thwarted a peace deal, with President Bidens connivance, by urging Ukraine to carry on fighting. Its clear Carlson wouldnt recognise a scoop if it whacked him on the head because, rather than teasing out more about these intriguing tales from Putin, he merely moved on, curiously incurious. Well see what Clinton and Johnson have to say about them. But Carlson did have the grace and good sense to lobby Putin about releasing Evan Gershkovich, the young Wall Street Journal reporter jailed by Putin on trumped up charges of spying. Putin would not budge but there was no harm in trying and he did not entirely slam the door in Carlsons face. Risible and boring as this interview was, it will have its intended damaging effect on America, where MAGA Republicans are already holding up more military aid for Ukraine in Congress. Social media is already awash with peons of praise for Putin from the Carlson/MAGA cult. Thus has Ukraines President Zelensky been further undermined. Job done, Tucker. The interview was also illuminating in ways it did not intend. It confirmed that President Putin is scarily isolated, mad, bad and dangerous, living increasingly in an ethno-nationalist Russian world of his own. As for his interrogator, once the doyenne of the Fox News prime-time line-up until, he was unceremoniously sacked last April, since when, bereft of even Foxs loose editorial standards, he has retreated to the outer limits of conspiracy theory madness. Now, steamrollered by an aging autocrat, Tucker Carlson has been confirmed as a fool. When it was confirmed to Princess Margaret that her elder sister would some day be Queen, her response was one of sympathy - verging on disdain. 'Poor you!' she famously replied to ten-year-old Elizabeth. For much of her life, Margaret did her best to live at striking and sometimes alarming variance with the example set by the dutiful first-born. As Craig Brown puts it in his biography, Ma'am Darling, 99 Glimpses of Princess Margaret, it was as if the fag-smoking, scandal-hit younger sister was determined to be a sort of anti-Queen. Princess Margaret continued to attend royal engagements to the best of her abilities in her final years despite suffering from poor health Princess Margaret's two children, Lady Sarah Chatto and Lord David Linley, pictured with their respective partner as they watch their mother's coffin leave the funeral service for cremation on February 15, 2002 She passed away on February 9, 2002, at The King Edward VII Hospital, having suffered from a stroke which led to cardiac problems during the night Yet the sisters were close, indeed spoke to each other every day when possible until Margaret passed away on Feburary 9 2002 at the age of 71. While Elizabeth busied herself with endless duties, including red boxes of papers in the evenings, Margaret - four years younger - had emerged as one of the most glamorous figures in post-war Britain. A patron of the arts, ballet in particular, she was also known for late nights, singing, dancing and a romantic life which brought much heartache. Her love for - and secret engagement to - the war ace Group Captain Peter Townsend was thwarted by convention. Townsend, considerably older, was also married. The Princess's marriage to photographer Tony Armstrong-Jones, another totem of '60s glamour, ended in acrimony and the first royal divorce since Henry VIII. While not quite matching their mother's impressive 101 years, Elizabeth lived a long and healthy life well into her 90s, passing away in September 2022 at the age of 96. But Margaret's health declined as time went by, suffering the removal of a part of her left lung in 1985, a stroke in 1988, and the scalding of her feet in a bathroom accident which left her in a wheelchair. Margaret's final public appearance was at the 100th birthday celebrations of HRH Princess Alice, Duchess of Gloucester in December 2001. The Princess passed away on February 9 after a stroke which led to cardiac problems in the night. Her children, David and Sarah - a favourite of their aunt Elizabeth - were by her bedside . The Queen issued a public statement, which read: 'The Queen, with great sadness, has asked for the following announcement to be made immediately. 'Her beloved sister, Princess Margaret, died peacefully in her sleep this morning at 6.30am, in The King Edward VII Hospital. 'Princess Margaret suffered a further stroke yesterday afternoon. 'She developed cardiac problems during the night and was taken from Kensington Palace to The King Edward VII Hospital at 2.30am Lord Linley and Lady Sarah were with her, and The Queen was kept fully informed throughout the night. 'Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother and other members of the Royal Family are being informed.' Charles, Prince of Wales, paid tribute to his 'darling aunt' in a moving television broadcast the day after the announcement. Lady Sarah Chatto, Lord Linley and Queen Elizabeth attending Princess Margret's funeral at St George's Chapel Margaret's coffin leaving King Edward Vll's Hospital to a waiting hearse on February 9, 2002 Choir boys are pictured walking out of the Queen's Chapel following the Princess' passing At the time, he said: 'My darling aunt had such a dreadful time the last few years with her awful illness. 'It was hard for her to deal with, particularly as she was such a wonderfully vibrant woman with such a free spirit. She lived life and loved it to the full and for that we will always remember her.' Private memorial services were held at St Mary Magdalene Church at Sandringham and Glamis Castle, ancestral home to the Queen Mother, who would join her younger daughter in death the following month. Margaret's coffin, draped in Margaret's personal standard, was taken from Kensington Palace to St James's Palace before her funeral. A service was held at St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle for family and friends on 15 February 2002, which happened to be the 50th anniversary of funeral of her father King George VI. The service was kept very private and was only attended by about 450 family and friends, which included 30 members of the Royal Family, such as the Queen, Margaret's ex-husband Lord Snowdon, and her two children. Most of her family have chosen to be buried, but Princess Margaret was cremated at Slough Crematorium. Margaret's coffin was taken from Kensington Palace to St James's Palace before her funeral Margaret did not want to be buried as she hoped to be reunited with her 'papa' upon her death This is said to have been determined by her wish to be reunited with her 'papa'. A traditional burial would have meant interment the royal burial ground at Frogmore in Windsor (where Queen Victoria and Prince Albert lie) as there was no room available in the St George's crypt. Today, her ashes remain in the Royal Vault at St George's Chapel, alongside the tombs of her mother and father. A state memorial service was held at Westminster Abbey in April 2002. The murder of a single mom who was caught up in a deadly digital love triangle sent shockwaves through her community and left her family devastated - but what happened to her own mom and son? Cari Farver had struck up a casual relationship with auto repairman Dave Kroupa, from Omaha, Nebraska, back in 2012. The two hit it off but after only a few weeks of dating, the mother-of-one, 37, disappeared and allegedly began sending threatening messages to her former lover. The notes stated that she would make it her 'life's mission' to 'ruin and destroy' him, claimed she was 'watching him' at all times, and vowed to 'never let him be with anyone else' ever again. Cari Farver had struck up a casual relationship with auto repairman Dave Kroupa, from Omaha, Nebraska, back in 2012 Dave spent years fearing for his life while being harassed online by a person he believed to be Cari. But, in 2016, investigators made the shocking discovery that she had not been the one sending the messages at all. The truth was that she had been brutally slain by a love rival who had been posing as her online for four years. Now, as Netflix prepares to release its Lover Stalker Killer documentary about the case, FEMAIL has looked into what happened to Cari's mom Nancy and son Maxwell in the aftermath. Who killed Cari Farver? The truth about Cari's death took years to unravel - but it all stemmed back to when she had first started dating Dave. The mechanic had struck up another relationship with a woman named Liz Golyar, around the same time as he was talking to Cari after meeting her on a dating site. Dave thought that the arrangement would be a carefree hookup, but it turned into a gruesome ordeal fueled by jealous rage. The mechanic had struck up another relationship with a woman named Liz Golyar (pictured together), around the same time as he was talking to Cari, after meeting her on a dating site Amid Cari's alleged stalking, things took an even darker turn in August 2013, when Liz claimed that she had burned down her house - killing her two dogs, cat, and pet snake in the process. Then weirder still, in 2015, Liz made the shocking accusation that Cari had shot her. Liz was arrested for the murder in December 2016 But it was when police began to investigate this claim that officers grew suspicious. Authorities were unable to locate Cari and soon found that no one - including her own family members - had seen her since 2012. And, when they found Liz's fingerprints in Cari's car, officers eventually came to the conclusion that she had been involved in her death. They also later discovered a memory card on her tablet that contained a photo of Cari's dead body after she had been fatally stabbed. It turned out that Liz had been the one sending the harassing text messages all along after impersonating Cari for a staggering four years. Liz was arrested for the murder in December 2016, and sentenced to life in prison. Where is Cari Farver's son Max Farver now? Cari, who worked as a computer programmer, left behind 14-year-old son Maxwell. He was taken care of by grandmother Nancy Raney - but he appears to have followed in his mom's career footsteps. Max attended Iowa State University from 2016 to 2021 to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Software Engineering and Data Science. He is now living in Lakeville, Minnesota, and working at financial technology company Chime, according to his LinkedIn profile. Max attended Iowa State University from 2016 to 2021 to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Software Engineering and Data Science The young man has also started building a family of his own after tying the knot with childhood sweetheart Sara Wede in June 2020 The young man has also started building a family of his own after tying the knot with childhood sweetheart Sara Wede in June 2020. The couple first met in kindergarten and have since grown up together. Discussing how Max proposed to her in January 2018, Sara wrote on their wedding registry: 'After dating all through high school, it was pretty expected that someday he would pop the question. 'I know some people from our high school were betting on how long it would take, sorry to those who expected right after graduation! 'Max and I had discussed getting married for a while, but he was bound determined to surprise me! 'He always told me it would be private and just the two of us, but he ended up planning a Christmas gift exchange with all of his friends as a cover.' The couple, who first met when they were in kindergarten, welcomed daughter Keira in May 2023 She continued: 'While we weren't matched to give each other gifts he secretly had me and, of course, I opened my gift last. 'Double wrapped in wrapping paper and completely surrounded in packing tape, he made me work for it! 'I was completely oblivious and found out after that Max's friends had videotaped the event, did I mention I had just woken up from a nap? 'I probably should have listened to my mom when she said I should wear makeup and do my hair - I found out later she knew all about it.' The couple welcomed daughter Keira in May 2023. What happened to Cari Farver's mother Nancy Raney? In the aftermath of Cari's death, mom Nancy Raney kept a relatively low public profile. But, in 2020, she sat down with ABC's 20/20 to tearfully discuss her daughter's legacy and expressed just how much she was missed. 'I want people to remember her as the fun-loving, talented, smart woman that she was,' she said. Cari's mom Nancy Raney has kept a relatively low public profile but, in 2020, she sat down with ABC's 20/20 to tearfully discuss her daughter's legacy 'She loved her son and she was a tremendous mother. She was a hard worker. 'If I could talk to Cari right now I'd say I love you and I'm so glad you were in my life and I miss you terribly.' Nancy took on the responsibility of looking after grandson Max until he reached adulthood. But little more is known about the doting grandmother. Lover Stalker Killer premieres on February 9 on Netflix An intimacy educator has revealed how worried moms have been paying her to practice first dates with their virgin sons - in hilarious real-life take on Jennifer Lawrence movie No Hard Feelings. Alice Little, from Nevada, said that she has seen a surge in bookings from women hoping their clueless-in-love sons can be educated ahead of Valentine's Day. The 33-year-old said quivering video gamers and those previously bullied at school who didn't 'take the next step' into sex and dating get the chance to practice a first date with her. The petite redhead said the shy guys get to enjoy a safe, sexual experience and gain confidence that they can take into their future dating lives. Alice Little, from Nevada, said that she has seen a surge in bookings from women hoping their clueless-in-love sons can be educated ahead of Valentine's Day The 33-year-old said quivering video gamers and those previously bullied at school who didn't 'take the next step' into sex and dating get the chance to practice a first date with her No Hard Feelings (pictured) is a 2023 American sex comedy film starring Jennifer Lawrence as a woman hired by a couple to school their sexually inexperienced son before he goes to college No Hard Feelings is a 2023 American sex comedy film starring Jennifer Lawrence as a woman hired by a couple to school their sexually inexperienced son before he goes to college. Alice, who works at a legal, licensed brothel called the Chicken Ranch in Pahrump, Nevada, said: 'Moms are sending their sons to me ahead of Valentine's Day to get their first experience under their belt. 'They're reaching out from a place of care and concern - wanting to make sure their kid essentially doesn't become bitter and negative towards women. 'They get in touch because their kids have never connected with women for whatever reason. 'Sometimes they're introverted, they play a lot of video games online or they were picked on in school and they never really made that next step into sex and dating.' She explained: 'I'll set up a practice first date with someone to set them up with the skills they're going to need to be in successful relationships in future. 'Getting to sit and go out on a date is truly a first experience for them, so it's so stressful and nerve wracking. 'I've had guys shaking in a mocked-up first date situation, for some of these gentlemen they've not even had their first kiss. The petite redhead said the shy guys get to enjoy a safe, sexual experience and gain confidence that they can take into their future dating lives Alice, who was born in Ireland and moved to the US aged five, has said that it is rewarding to see how guys blossom in confidence after meeting her 'I think it's really beneficial to have that first experience with someone who is more experienced because there's not going to be any judgment. 'I have a pretty good sense of how to get people to relax and overcome their nerves and set somebody up for the best time possible.' Alice, who was born in Ireland and moved to the US aged five, has said that it is rewarding to see how guys blossom in confidence after meeting her. 'It's so fantastic to see these gentlemen grow in confidence and see the transformation. 'It's really wonderful when I get follow-up emails from people multiple weeks and months down the road. 'They say, "yeah I decided to take your advice and make a dating profile, and now I'm going on my first date." 'They'll give me updates about how things are going for them, which is really wonderful.' She continued: 'I see men pretty much of all ages, from those aged 21 treating themselves to a 21st birthday gift, to men in their 70s. Alice said she welcomes moms booking their sons in for an experience with her, providing they are not springing it on them as a surprise She added: 'I see men pretty much of all ages, from those aged 21 treating themselves to a 21st birthday gift, to men in their 70s' 'The men in their 70s have lost their partner and don't want to get into another long-term relationship but still want to have intimacy and a meaningful sex life. 'When it comes to first-timers, men who've never had sex before, I've noticed a lot of gentlemen in their 30s, 40s, 50s who over the pandemic paused and reevaluated their priorities. 'They're now choosing to make it a point to have that first sexual experience and it's a great way to do it.' Alice said she welcomes moms booking their sons in for an experience with her, providing they are not springing it on them as a surprise. 'So long as it's consensual and the person is aware that this is what they're getting as a present. 'You should never surprise someone with a visit to a sex worker. 'I don't do surprise presents but presents with informed consent - absolutely, because it gives someone something to look forward to that's meaningful, special and fantastic.' Netflix fans have hailed a 'hidden gem' series which boasts a 100 per cent Rotten Tomatoes rating - as viewers eagerly await the second season. The Law According to Lidia Poet is based on the true story of Italy's first female lawyer who investigates homicides while battling sexism in the 19th century. The six-part crime series, which first premiered in February 2023, has been flooded with positive feedback on social media since its release. Dozens have branded it as 'excellent' and a 'hidden gem' as others urged viewers to tune in ahead of series two. The Law According to Lidia Poet is based on the true story of Italy's first female lawyer who investigates homicides while battling sexism in the 19th century The six-part crime series, which first premiered in February 2023, has been flooded with positive feedback on social media since its release The show's teaser features Lidia (played by Matilda De Angelis) introducing herself to viewers by stating: 'I'm a lawyer. 'If you know me, you know I'm not allowed to argue in the courtroom because I am a woman.' The series then documents her life as she battles to overcome the sexist limitations that are holding her back from pursuing her career after being 'forbidden to work on cases.' But, nonetheless, Lidia still manages to investigate her fair share of gruesome deaths while also navigating her own newfound love with Jacopo Barberis (Eduardo Scarpetta). And it seems that the no-nonsense protagonist has been captivating viewers as many rushed to social media to gush over the streaming series. In a Reddit thread asking for 'hidden gem' recommendations, one avid fan wrote: 'If you don't mind subtitles, The Law According to Lidia Poet is excellent. It's based on the life of Italy's first female lawyer. 'Only the first season (six episodes) are available at the moment, but a second season will be released in the spring.' And another person replied: 'Loved the show.' The show's teaser features Lidia (played by Matilda De Angelis) introducing herself to viewers by stating: 'I'm a lawyer. If you know me, you know I'm not allowed to argue in the courtroom because I am a woman' Elsewhere, one viewer asked Facebook: 'Who's watching The Law According to Lidia Poet?' - and she was quickly flooded with responses Elsewhere, one viewer asked Facebook: 'Who's watching The Law According to Lidia Poet?' She was quickly flooded with responses as one wrote: 'On episode three. Absolutely loving the clothes.' Another person said: 'Yes!! I am really enjoying it,' before somebody else replied: 'She is stunning and the costumes enhance her beauty. Love her tenacity.' A fourth viewer added: 'I really liked it... finished it,' and another commenter responded: 'I am liking it too. 'Not usually a fan of dubbed shows... but this is good.' The series has received 100 per cent on Rotten Tomatoes' 'average tomatometer' and 89 per cent on its average audience score. Many viewers took the site to once again hail the series. The second series of The Law According to Lidia Poet is set to be released on Netflix later this year (stock image) The series has received 100 per cent on Rotten Tomatoes' 'average tomatometer' and 89 per cent on its average audience score - many viewers took the site to once again hail the series One person gave the show a five-star-rating and wrote: 'I absolutely LOVED it. This mini series is funny, heartwarming, romantic, and light. I changed the language to English and quickly got used to it. 'I loved all the main characters. The stories were entertaining and light. And I was surprised that it's based on the first woman Lawyer in Italy. Highly recommended if you like murder mysteries and romance.' A second person, who also gave the show five stars, added: 'Very funny series. Obviously very fiction [based] compared to history, but that doesn't bother me because I'd watch a documentary if I wanted historical accuracy. 'The cast had a great ensemble performance and loved the tension and understanding between characters.' 'One of the most entertaining series based on a true story I've ever seen,' a third commenter wrote while giving the series five stars. The second series of The Law According to Lidia Poet is set to be released on Netflix later this year. Christopher Nolan has admitted that he doesn't have a normal smartphone and prefers to use a burner cell. Nolan, 53, dropped by The Late Show With Stephen Colbert, where the titular host grilled the idiosyncratic Oppenheimer director about a variety of his notorious quirks. 'There's a mystique that's been built around you over many years and your process,' Colbert prefaced the line of questioning. Among the factors playing into said 'mystique' is that the British director has avoided adapting commonplace technology, using neither email nor smartphones. Christopher Nolan, 53, appeared on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert, where the host grilled the Oppenheimer director about a variety of his rumored idiosyncrasies Colbert grilled the British director about a number of his idiosyncratic habits and preferences when it comes to communications and filmmaking 'I don't have an email address - I never use email,' Nolan confirmed. 'I don't have a smartphone. I will carry a pay-as-you-go like dumb-phone thing when I need to,' he continued. 'So you have a burner phone?' the host shot back. 'Yes, I suppose you could put it that way,' Nolan agreed. 'Do you work with the cartels?' Colbert quipped. 'I was inspired by The Wire, definitely,' the director admitted. 'And when you're done you break it up and put it in two trash cans?' the TV host pressed. 'Jason Bourne-style,' the director jokingly affirmed. The Oppenheimer director admitted that he doesn't have a smartphone, rather, in his words, he only carries a 'dumb-phone thing' Nolan admitted that he didn't allow any 'distractions' on set - including cell phones and Uggs Colbert also asked the Memento director if it was true he insisted on being present alongside actors as they read his scripts for the first time. 'You'll either fly to an actor or have them come to you, or you'll stay on-site as they read the script the first time?' Colbert questioned the Tenet filmmaker. 'Yes,' Nolan confirmed as he further explained that the strategy was 'to keep the script private, to not email scripts around. It's mostly for that.' 'And also to really try and get that immediate reaction and look in the eyes of the person who has read it and see, "Do they see the way I see it? And can we find common ground creatively here?"' The director admitted that, while the scenario may create 'a little pressure' for his prospective cast members, 'people can rely on my ability to listen to them say, "I love it, it's great, I want to do it," and realize that no, they don't. And that's fine!' Nolan's latest blockbuster, the drama-thriller Oppenheimer about the invention of the atomic bomb, is nominated in 13 categories at this year's Oscars Nolan also confirmed that he printed scripts in red and black ink so they couldn't be photocopied. Another rumored eccentricity about the director's preferences that Colbert brought up: 'You don't allow cell phones or Uggs on set?' 'Ah, the Uggs controversy,' Nolan sighed. 'I don't allow cell phones on set - I try to minimalize distractions on set.' 'Uggs are distracting?' Colbert prodded. 'They can be for the other actors, yes. Because, even though we are engaged in this absurd process where this wall is real, but there's lights and there's a guy with a microphone or whatever, you're asking the actor to focus in on the reality,' the director elaborated. 'And so, everything you can do - like wearing the correct shoes, you know whatever, and not changing your trousers... so anything we can do to keep that reality, to keep that bubble intact,' Nolan continued. He further elucidated of the on-set rules: 'It's for the cast and it's for me. You know, I'm in there with them, trying to concentrate, trying to see the reality of it.' Nolan's latest blockbuster, drama-thriller Oppenheimer about the invention of the atomic bomb, is a hot contender at this year's Oscars, nominated in 13 categories including Best Picture, Best Director and Cillian Murphy for Best Actor. Accepting the award for best director at the Golden Globes last month, Nolan broke down as he brought up the memory of the late Heath Ledger, who gave a legendary performance as The Joker in Nolan's first major blockbuster, 2005's Batman Begins as well the critically acclaimed sequel, 2008's The Dark Knight. Addressing the audience from the podium, Nolan noted that he'd only ever given a speech at the Globes on behalf of Ledger. Ledger died at age 28 from a drug overdose just months prior to the second film's release. He won a posthumous award for Best Supporting Actor at the 2009 Oscars for the role. Are you struggling to decipher Gen Z's latest slang? Well, this might help. Philip Lindsay, 29, who works as a special education math teacher in Payson, Arizona, has been captivating TikTok with his school-based skits. The social media star, who has more than 162,000 followers on the video-sharing platform, recently appeared on The Today Show with hosts Jenna Bush Hager and Willie Geist. During the chat, Philip decoded some of the most popular phrases currently doing the rounds including 'rizz,' 'pick me girl' and 'doing it for the plot.' Philip Lindsay, 29, who works as a special education math teacher in Payson, Arizona , has been captivating TikTok with his school-based skits The social media star, who has more than 162,000 followers on the video-sharing platform, recently appeared on The Today Show with hosts Jenna Bush Hager and Willie Geist The segment began with Jenna gushing over the guest before asking whether he ever thought his videos would prove to be so popular on social media. 'I did not - but I had some helpful things to say and I put them out there and here we are,' Philip candidly replied. Jenna joked that he was 'doing a public service for all of us parents' by deciphering some of the unusual phrases being used by Gen Z. And the first to be unpacked was 'rizz or the rizzler.' He explained: 'This one means charisma. It means you've got charm - an old word to reference back to is "you've got game." 'They love this one. They're obsessed with this one.' The educator explained that there were various iterations of the word such as Rizzly Bear, Rizzler of Oz and Rizzasaurous Rez. 'I've got kids who have come up to me and told me that they have a PhD in "quantum rizziques" as a Professor of Rizzanomics, he added. During the chat, Philip decoded some of the most popular phrases currently doing the rounds including 'rizz,' 'pick me girl' and 'doing it for the plot' He explained that a 'pick-me girl' was a 'try-hard - somebody who's maybe more about getting attention and attention-seeking, then they are being genuine with themselves' How to decipher Gen Z slang terms Rizz : Charisma and charm : Charisma and charm Pick-me girl/pick-me energy : Someone who is a try-hard and an attention seeker : Someone who is a try-hard and an attention seeker Do it for the plot : Reason to take a risk : Reason to take a risk W in the chat : Hyping someone up : Hyping someone up Mid : Medium : Medium Preppy : Cool style Advertisement Next, Philip turned his attention to the phrase 'pick-me girl or pick-me energy.' He explained: 'Think of a try-hard - somebody who's maybe more about getting attention and attention-seeking, then they are being genuine with themselves. 'You don't want to be a pick me. It's kind of an insult.' The teacher further explained traits of being a 'pick-me' included being 'loud and obnoxious.' Jenna then cut in and joked: 'I'm worried that I was a pick-me person and I just want to apologize to all my middle school teachers.' But Philip was not yet done with exploring Gen Z slang. 'The next one that we have is "do it for the plot" - I really, really like this one. 'This one is "life's a movie, my whole life is a movie, there's a story, there's struggle, there's obstacles and I've got to make my own story."' He said youngsters are now using the phrase as a 'new version of YOLO - you only live once.' 'It is kind of like "I'm on the edge of doing something risky or something challenging, I'm gonna hype myself up" by saying "do it for the plot."' 'Do it for the memories, for the story.' Philip then unpacked the phrase 'W in the chat.' 'This one comes from livestreaming culture. The comments that are scrolling on the live stream are called the chat. Following his appearance on the show, the teacher shared a snapshot to Instagram as he stood between the hosts '[If] somebody does something good in the chat like they send a big gift to the live streamer it's like, "W in the chat," [which] means hyping somebody up. 'It leaves live stream culture and now it is in the real world. If somebody does something hype-able, they're gonna be like, "W in the chat."' Other phrases that the trio touched upon were 'mid' - meaning something is just medium - and 'preppy' - which now represents a whole host of style attributes including 'bright, pink and smiley faces.' Asked whether 'preppy' is good or bad, Philip admitted: 'It depends how they say it. Sometimes it is good and it is a compliment. Sometimes its not.' Following his appearance on the show, the teacher shared a snapshot to Instagram as he stood between the hosts. He added a caption that read: 'Connection between student and teacher and student and parent, is one of the most important tools for student success. 'Understanding how they talk is a huge part of that connection. 'Unbelievably thankful for the opportunity to share information that will connect students, parents and teachers on The Today Show!' A mass demonstration has broken out on the Gold Coast with protesters in skimpy swimsuits lashing out after a local man called for a ban on G-string bikinis. Community worker Ian Grace sparked a national uproar with a letter to the local newspaper this week expressing discomfort about women wearing trendy, barely-there swimwear. That prompted a massive backlash with scantily-clad locals marching along Broadbeach on Friday, calling on Australians to 'free the peach'. About two dozen protesters hit the boardwalk at Broadbeach, on the Gold Coast, after local Ian Grace called for a ban on G-string bikinis Demonstrators were all smiles as they protested Mr Grace's letter to the local mayor calling for an end to the trendy bikini style Demonstrators sported temporary peach tattoos on their rear ends Organiser Rebecca Pask said a bikini blanket ban 'was never going to be the solution. Never. Not on the Gold Coast. 'Children and our young girls in society, we do need to teach them what's appropriate and what's not but that starts in the home,' she said. Radio presenter Bianca Dye and influencers Rhiannon O'Loughlin and Brooke Michelle Woods attended the rally. In his controversial letter, Mr Grace recalled how he was left shocked by one young woman's G-string bikini. 'One young lady in particular was walking on the footpath on the main road and had the tiniest triangle in front and was as close to naked as anyone could be,' he wrote. 'While any man would enjoy 'the view', I believe women are very much demeaning and cheapening themselves, portraying themselves as sex objects, then decrying it when men see them that way.' Dozens of protesters carried signs reading 'free the beach' and '#peachful protest' Party-like scenes erupted at Broadbeach as men and women dressed in very little protested Both men and women took to the beach in skimpy outfits Organiser Rebecca Pask said a bikini blanket ban 'was never going to be the solution. Never. Not on the Gold Coast' The volunteer said 'bare bums' are just as erotic as bare breasts so they should be banned in the same way. 'If not banned at the beach, very definitely banned the moment they are off the beach,' he wrote. 'This certainly should not be allowed in public pools or theme/water parks which are very much more family orientated. Young kids don't need to see women's bums.' Mr Grace pleaded for the city's mayor Tom Tate to ban the fashion statement - something that the elected official swiftly rejected. Community volunteer Ian Grace (pictured) said 'bare bums' are just as erotic as bare breasts so they should be banned in the same way Mr Grace pleaded for the city's mayor Tom Tate to ban the fashion statement - something that the elected official swiftly rejected The Duchess of York, 64, looked in high spirits at the event in Miami Sarah Ferguson has made her first public appearance following her cancer diagnosis. The Duchess of York, 64, appeared in high spirits as she attended the annual Haute Living 100 event in Miami earlier this week. The event was dedicated to recognising the most prominent individuals in Miami, from philanthropists to creatives and athletes. Sarah looked elegant in a 1,044 white military crepe blazer from The Extreme Collection and a chic black dress. She matched the statement piece with an embellished Dolce and Gabbana clutch bag and a pair of black lace up boots from Geox. Sarah Ferguson carried out business as usual as she attended the The Haute Living 100 in Miami earlier this week alongside the mayor of Miami Francis Suarez (left), despite her recent cancer diagnosis Sarah beamed towards the camera next to the CEO of Haute 100, Kamal Hotchandani (left) and Shreya Arun (right) The Duchess smiled for cameras alongside the CEO of Haute Living, Kamal Hotchandani, the Mayor of Miami, Francis Suarez, and his wife Gloria Fonts Suarez. She was later pictured on Instagram with TV and film producer Erbil Gunasti at a different charity event. The ex-wife of Prince Andrew travelled to Palm Beach to attend a Cancer Alliance event, where she was the keynote speaker. During the event, Sarah - who wore a look by St. John - took the time take photographs with Ed. Sarah appeared positive as she jokingly posed with the producer. It comes after The Duchess of York gave royal fans a reassuring health update as she left a hospital appointment this afternoon following her skin cancer diagnosis. Sarah revealed she was diagnosed with malignant melanoma just months after undergoing a second bout of reconstructive surgery following her breast cancer diagnosis. Despite being hit by a second cancer blow, Fergie, as she is affectionately known, waved to well-wishers after seeing her dermatologist at the King Edward VII hospital in Marylebone, London. The smiling duchess, who learnt of her diagnosis over the New Year, gave a short but positive update, telling fans: 'I'm fine, thank you.' Sarah later attended a Cancer Alliance event alongside Erbil Gunasti (left). The Duchess - who wore a look by St. John - was the keynote speaker at the event The Duchess looked chic in a blue suit and joked around with the TV and film producer in front of the camera Fergie, dressed in a navy blue blazer, matching skirt, black tights and loafers, stopped to chat with the public after her appointment before being ushered away by her driver. Fergie revealed her shock diagnosis in January, just six months after battling breast cancer. The mother-of-two had a number of moles removed while undergoing breast reconstruction surgery last year, one of which was found to be malignant. The duchess, who is the ex-wife of King Charles' brother Prince Andrew, was described as being in 'good spirits' after the 'distressing' news, which was broken to her just days after Christmas. 'It was thanks to the great vigilance of my dermatologist that the melanoma was detected when it was,' she wrote. 'Naturally another cancer diagnosis has been a shock but I am in good spirits and grateful for the many messages of love and support. '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.' The duchess added she was now resting at home with her family. 'I believe my experience underlines the importance of checking the size, shape, colour and texture and emergence of new moles that can be a sign of melanoma and urge anyone who is reading this to be diligent,' she added. The Duchess of York pictured on ITV's Good Morning Britain on December 12 last year Sarah Ferguson pictured with her ex-husband Prince Andrew and Maria Laura Salinas at Royal Ascot in June 2019 Sarah Ferguson pictured with her ex-husband Prince Andrew attending Christmas Day service in Sandringham last month '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, feeling blessed to have their love and support.' Since her divorce from Andrew in 1996 she has forged a new career as a successful author. However, she remains close to her husband and they still share the same family home in Windsor. She joined the other senior royals for the annual Christmas get-together at the Sandringham estate in eastern England in December, a sign she was back in the royal fold. It is hoped that the cancer was found early enough that she won't have any further problems, but will undergo further tests to determine whether it has spread. 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 Ferguson pictured with her daughters Princess Beatrice (left) and Princess Eugenie (right) at the Masterpiece Midsummer Party at the Royal Hospital Chelsea in 2013 The Duchess is reported to have spent the last few weeks staying at the MAYRLIFE clinic in Altausee, Austria (pictured) The Austrian health resort (pictured) has played host to the likes of Naomi Campbell, Karlie Kloss and Rebel Wilson in the past A melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can spread to other areas of the body, mainly caused by exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun or sunbeds. People with paler skin, a large number of moles and family history of skin cancer tend to be more at risk of developing this. The news came days after a double royal health scare, when it was revealed King Charles III was preparing for a prostate procedure and the Princess of Wales had undergone planned abdominal surgery. Friends say Fergie 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. 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. Netflix's latest rom-com series, One Day, has achieved a slew of rave reviews online with viewers saying they'll 'never get over it' and saying they're going to 'stay in all weekend to watch it'. The new series was released on Thursday and eager viewers were quick to praise the emotional scenes - with one saying they 'loved every minute'. Ambika Mod, 27, stars as Emma Morley in the 20 year love story, opposite White Lotus actor Leo Woodall. Emma and Leo's character Dexter Mayhew meet on the 15th July 1988, the night of their Edinburgh University graduation. The next morning, they go their separate ways but the novel and TV series catches up with them on the same day every year. Each episode finds Dex and Em, one year older, on this one particular date, as they grow and change, move together and apart, experience joy and heartbreak. Critics too have praised the series, with it getting an impressive 90 per cent score on Rotten Tomatoes. Netflix fans have hailed the adaptation of David Nicholls' novel One Day claiming they've 'never cried so much at a show' The new series was released on Thursday and eager viewers were quick to praise the emotional scenes - with one saying they 'loved every minute' One fan said after watching the show: 'can we talk about the Netflix version of #OneDay now? I've never cried so much at a show in my life. I loved every minute.' Another wrote: 'the way i haven't been tweeting omfg the woman was too stunned to speak. cant explain just how perfect this adaptation of emmadex is literally need to wheeled to hospital. ambika and leo are BRILLIANT #onedaynetflix.' A third penned: 'this adaptation is so good already I feel sick #oneday #onedaynetflix.' A fourth said in reaction: 'I'M ALREADY HAVING THE TIME OF MY LFIEJWEJEEEEE EMMADEX YOU ARE EVERYTHING TO ME!!! #ONEDAYNETFLIX.' Another penned: 'this version emmadex feels so genuine #onedaynetflix.' The British 15-Rated show is based on the much-loved novel by David Nicholls, and follows two young characters, Emma, and Dexter as they navigate the transition into adulthood and has been called a 'highly bingeable love story' by The Guardian. It beats the show's controversial 2011 predecessor featuring Anne Hathaway, which largely flopped and scored a disappointing 35 per cent on the same review aggregator. A stream of stellar reviews is a tricky feat. Currently, 30 critics have shared their thoughts on the show since its release yesterday, and many have commended it for comforting qualities. Leo Goodall (right) and Ambika Mod (right). One Day is adapted from the novel of the same name by David Nicholls which sold over six million copies Ambika Mod, 27, stars as Emma Morley in the 20-year love story, opposite White Lotus actor Leo Woodall. The series follows the lives of Emma and Dexter who, on 15th July 1988, the night of their Edinburgh University graduation, speak for the very first time. The next morning, they go their separate ways, but the novel and TV series catches up with them on the same day every year. Each episode finds Dex and Em, one year older, on this one date, as they grow and change, move together and apart, experience joy and heartbreak. The cast is rounded out by the likes of Essie Davis (Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries), Tim McInnerny (Blackadder), Toby Stephens (Die Another Day) and Joely Richardson (Lady Chatterley). And they've impressed critics. Chitra Ramaswamy from The Guardian hailed the show as a 'bingeable love story packed with magnificent nostalgia and a sublime soundtrack. But I do have one confession.' She added: 'Of course, the whole enterprise hangs on Em and Dex, who must be completely believable and lovable, individually, and together. They are extraordinary.' Neil Armstrong from the BBC said: 'It is, essentially, a romcom and it's a superb one, but it has serious, maybe profound, elements. This beautiful, note-perfect adaptation really does it justice.' The adaptation has proven to be a hit with the critics, with The Guardian review hailing it as a 'flawless romcom' Elsewhere, Carol Midgley from The Times said: 'What I like most about this exquisitely judged series, aside from the two leading performances and a supporting cast that includes Tim McInnerny, Amber Grappy and Eleanor Tomlinson, is the light-touch storytelling.' 'David Nicholls's bestselling novel has been skilfully turned into an easily digestible drama series for the Netflix age,' said Anita Singh from The Telegraph. However, she noted that the show has the 'depth of a puddle' but added that sometimes that's desirable. Proma Khosla from indieWire said: 'One Day as a limited series leaves a much stronger impression than it ever could have as a film, minting Mod and Woodall's chemistry, charm, and adaptability.' One Day is expected to be as huge a hit and as a launching pad for its two stars (Pictured: Ambika Mod,left, and Leo Goodall, right) One Day: What do the critics say The Telegraph: 'A bingeable, sentimental romance with all the depth of a puddle' 'If you're the sentimental type, you'll watch One Day and ponder the gap between how you thought your life would turn out when you were young, and how it actually did. The rest of us can just enjoy being taken back to a time when arranging a date involved writing a letter, visiting a public call box or for the real early adopters owning a mobile phone with a pull-out antenna' Rating: The Hollywood Reporter: 'One Day aims for a balance between epic fated romance and grounded quarter-life drama, and for a while pulls it off quite well.' The Guardian: 'A flawless romcom you'll fall for, hard' 'It doesn't sound plausible. Or touching. Or funny. Or relevant to our times, which have travelled so far beyond 'class-conflicted' that I can't summon a word vicious enough for them. And yet. When David Nicholls' third novel came out, in 2009, it won over every person who read it, even the ones who don't do romantic comedy. It was so funny and unpretentious, so heartfelt and true. The film that followed was weirdly awful, but let's treat that as the rebound relationship instantly excised from your romantic history so you can love again. Because we now have the hot 2020s version. And this one's a keeper. Rating: The Irish Times: 'Freewheeling trip through the 1990s is one you will binge watch by the weekend' 'That hazy sense of tumbling ever forward with no destination is brought wonderfully to life. And with each episode clocking in at a bite-sized 30 minutes or less, its all immensely watchable. Ultimately, One Day is as shallow as a night of speed dating yet so easily does it clip by, it is a foregone conclusion that youll binge the entire thing by the weekend.' The Times: 'Exquisite adaptation of David Nichollss novel' 'And by the end it will put you through the wringer, still charming but with an emotional punch like a Tyson Fury left hook. Ill need a little break before I watch it again, but theres no doubt that I will.' Rating: Advertisement One fan said after watching the show: 'can we talk about the Netflix version of #OneDay now? I've never cried so much at a show in my life. I loved every minute.' Another wrote: 'the way i haven't been tweeting omfg the woman was too stunned to speak. cant explain just how perfect this adaptation of emmadex is literally need to wheeled to hospital. ambika and leo are BRILLIANT #onedaynetflix.' A third penned: 'this adaptation is so good already I feel sick #oneday #onedaynetflix.' A fourth said in reaction: 'I'M ALREADY HAVING THE TIME OF MY LFIEJWEJEEEEE EMMADEX YOU ARE EVERYTHING TO ME!!! #ONEDAYNETFLIX.' Another penned: 'this version emmadex feels so genuine #onedaynetflix.' Someone else said in reaction to the series: 'I'm off sick today & it hurts to look at a screen, but I have just finished the first episode of #OneDay on Netflix. One Day is one of my most beloved books, and oh this series is already everything I needed and wanted! also, songs from THE Emma Morley Mix Tape? gorgeous.' Another viewer said: 'Just started One Day on Netflix and Im already excited to finish it.' Earlier this week Ambika revealed why she turned down the part 'over and over again.' One fan said after watching the show: 'can we talk about the Netflix version of #OneDay now? I've never cried so much at a show in my life. I loved every minute' Ambika Mod, 27, (right) stars as Emma Morley in the 20 year love story, opposite White Lotus actor Leo Woodall Earlier this week Ambika (seen in the show) revealed why she turned down the part 'over and over again' Speaking ahead of the show's release Ambika revealed how despite falling in love with Nicholls' novel in 2009 when she was 14, it was an immediate 'no' when she was asked to audition. 'I saw the email notification pop up on my phone: 'Emma, One Day, self-tape' and I was like 'Nah I'm not doing that',' she tells Grazia. 'I turned the audition down again and again over several months. I love the book so much and I just didn't see myself playing that part. I thought it was a waste of time. I envisaged the disappointment I would experience if I entertained this idea.' Ambika also recalled how at the time she was still coming to terms with her biggest role to date, playing student doctor Shruti Acharya in 2022 drama This Is Going To Hurt. Describing how she felt 'overwhelmed' by the attention she received after her acclaimed performance, the actress admitted 'I kind of wanted everything to go away.' But months after turning down the One Day audition she had a sudden change of heart and thought 'I've made a terrible mistake'. Lo and behold she impressed and landed the role. Prince William's fourth Earthshot Prize will travel to Cape Town, South Africa this November, raising the prospect of a royal visit to the country. The Prince of Wales, 41, has attended every annual awards ceremony for his environmental initiative to date, including events in London in 2021, Boston in 2022 and Singapore in 2023. His wife Kate, 42, who is currently recovering from abdominal surgery at Adelaide Cottage in Windsor, and is not expected to return to official duties until after Easter, travelled alongside her husband to the States. However, she missed out on the most recent event in Singapore after staying home to help her eldest son Prince George, 10, with his 'first set of major exams'. It's unclear whether the Prince, whose father King Charles is currently battling cancer, and the Princess of Wales will travel to South Africa for Earthshot Week 2024. MailOnline has contacted Kensington Palace. Prince William 's fourth Earthshot Prize will travel to Cape Town, South Africa this November Across five days of events, The Earthshot Prize will celebrate the groundbreaking work of fifteen global environmental solutions. It will convene leading innovators, Earthshot Alumni, partners, investors and philanthropists for inspiring conversations and action on catalysing solutions to protect and restore our planet. The Earthshot Prize is an ambitious global environmental prize which aims to discover and help scale the world's most innovative climate and environmental solutions to protect and restore our planet. The Prize is cantered around five 'Earthshots'; simple but aspirational goals to ensure our communities, oceans and ecosystems can thrive together in harmony for generations to come. Over the coming months, a rigorous selection process will unearth fifteen finalists from around the world, of whom five will be awarded a 1million prize to scale their solutions, during the ceremony in Cape Town. Hannah Jones, CEO of The Earthshot Prize said: 'This is the Earthshot Decade, a decade in which we must, by 2030, reduce CO2 emissions by over 40 percent, and protect 30 percent of nature, oceans, and freshwater. 'The nominations to The Earthshot Prize remind us that human ingenuity, grit and determination can turn the seemingly impossible into the new normal. 'We're delighted to be working with changemakers and partners across Africa to spotlight the incredible innovation emerging across the continent, to convene courageous conversations about scale and finance, and to partner with young creators and filmmakers to tell the story of changemakers across Africa.' Nearly 400 nominees for this year's Prize are Africa-based, highlighting the trailblazing creativity and innovation across the continent with the potential to inspire optimism and provide pathways to transformative change around the world. The Prince of Wales, Patron of London's Air Ambulance Charity, attends the London's Air Ambulance charity gala dinner at Raffles London at The OWO on Wednesday Despite contributing the least to global warming and having the lowest emissions, Africa is the most vulnerable continent to the impacts of climate change. In 2022 alone, more than 110 million people across Africa were directly affected by weather, climate, and water-related hazards according to the World Meteorological Organization. Earthshot Week will begin with The Prize's annual Awards Ceremony, an evening of extraordinary storytelling and star-studded performances, celebrating the work of the fifteen Earthshot Prize finalists. The ceremony will be followed by Earthshot+, a day of thought-provoking conversations aimed at multiplying the impact of The Earthshot Prize Winners and Finalists. The Prize has recently completed its annual nominations process, culminating in nearly 2,500 entries submitted from 432 Official Nominators from around the world, doubling the nominations from any previous year. Nearly 400 of the 2024 nominations are headquartered in Africa, three times more than in any previous set of nominations. The Prince and Princess of Wales arrive for the second annual Earthshot Prize Awards Ceremony in 2022 The Prize's first three cohorts of 45 Finalists have already driven incredible impact to repair and regenerate our planet with more than 1.5 million people benefiting directly from their solutions. Over 7,000 hectares of land and almost 2.1 million hectares of ocean have been protected or restored, while over 35,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions have been reduced, avoided or sequestered. The 2024 Earthshot Prize finalists will be unveiled in September. The announcement comes after The Daily Mail's Richard Eden revealed the Earthshot Prize charity pulled in a mammoth 22.4 million in income in its first nine months alone. At the time of its launch, Earthshot was administered by the Royal Foundation, established by Princes William and Harry back in 2009 to further their various charitable ambitions. But in 2022 the prize was hived off, to be administered as an entirely separate charity. While the Royal Foundation transferred 8.6 million, the remainder came from a variety of sources, as accounts just published by the Charity Commission disclose. Donations totalled 7 million, while 'gifts in kind' accounted for just over 3 million, and a grant from the American Friends of the Royal Foundation for another 2.7 million. The remaining five per cent 1.1 million came in sponsorship and from licensing income. A chain smoking 25-year-old socialite who is covered in tattoos and says she lives 'paycheque to paycheque' is hoping to be the new 'unladylike' face of aristocracy. Lady Venetia Baring wants to show people that it doesn't have to be 'some stuffy, outdated and possibly ignorant existence'. Speaking to Tatler , the daughter of the 4th Earl of Cromer and his second wife Shelley Hu Cheng-Yu, opened up about carving out her own identity despite a strict, stately upbringing. She has featured in campaigns for Nike and Dr Martens - even snagging a small cameo in Disney's 2023 superhero film The Marvels. However, despite her being related to two opulent families, the Barings and the Rothermeres, Venetia says her life is that of a regular person. Speaking to Tatler , Lady Venetia Baring - the daughter of the 4th Earl of Cromer - opened up about carving out her own identity despite her strict, stately upbringing 'Some people automatically think I have a stately home and a butler. And that's not my life,' she told the outlet. The social media savvy model, who has 19,500 followers on Instagram, insisted that none of her friends even know that she has a title. Venetia - who recently spent her time enjoying the company of some of society's best and brightest, including Princess Vittoria of Savoy, Freddie Knatchbull and Tara DuRoss - at the Tatler's Little Black Book party explained how her aesthetics have served as her form of rebellion. The aristocrat's public display of brightly coloured hair, piercings and 'tomboy' fashion are a way to 'celebrate her body' and 'feel empowered'. Her childhood saw Venetia growing up between houses in Sloane Square, Somerset - at a now-sold Garde-II listed former rectory - and Thailand. Aged 10, Venetia was sent off to a boarding school, St Mary's Calne in Wiltshire, where she enjoyed seven fond years of memories and made lifelong friends. But her rebellious nature shined even then - she was caught smoking, sneaking out of school and even making clandestine trips to London for 'squat raves'. After graduating, she enrolled at Manchester University to study history of art but found it surprisingly difficult to mesh with people who were of a similar educational background to her. Venetia said: 'They were all on my course. I mean, only boarding-school people do history of art. But they just weren't, like, welcoming to me. It was a bit confusing. So I went out and made my own friends.' The aristocrat's public display of her brightly coloured hair, piercings and 'tomboy' fashion are a way to 'celebrate her body' and 'feel empowered' Venetia - who is also close with her brother Alexander - has also reconnected with her mother Shelley, who also lives in London and has a jewellery business, admitting she wants the pair to take a bonding trip to China together With uni came her parents' divorce - which pulled Venetia into a depression, and affected her studies - as her mother and father 'really heavily dragged her into it'. She moved back to the capital in 2018, where her mental health bettered after she began working as a bartender in Brixton's Canova Hall. There, she met her boyfriend Sasha, who was working as a chef. The couple recently celebrated their four year anniversary. Venetia - who is also close with her brother Alexander - has also since reconnected with her mother Shelley, who also lives in London and has a jewellery business, admitting she wants the pair to take a bonding trip to China together. However, she has drifted away from her father - Evelyn, 77. 'He got remarried to a very beautiful, young Thai girl that's a bit complicated,' she admitted. 'As I get older, I realise that she [Shelley] was really hurt and he [Evelyn] was panicking. And, like, they're human, they're always gonna mess up, like we do. So I shouldn't expect too much.' In her online portfolio, Venetia says she runs a workshop called Divurgent for creatives - 'where models, photographers and creatives can come together, to learn and grow hone their skills, and build a community here in London'. She moved back to the capital in 2018, where her mental health bettered after she began working as a bartender in Brixton's Canova Hall. There, she met her boyfriend Sasha (both pictured), who was working as a chef In her online portfolio, Venetia says she runs a workshop called Divurgent for creatives. Pictured with her guinea pig A chain smoking 25-year-old socialite who is covered in tattoos and says she lives 'paycheque to paycheque' is hoping to be the new 'unladylike' face of artistocracy and wants to show people that it doesn't have to be 'some stuffy, outdated and possibly ignorant existence' It comes as, in a withering letter to The Times, Lord Cromer responded to claims from his daughter's Tatler interview that his mother wasn't a fan of the late Princess Diana. 'Lady Venetia Baring alleges that my late mother, the Dowager Countess of Cromer, said "She really didn't like Diana" and that "Diana should get a grip",' he said. The Old Etonian peer then made it plain that it is, in his opinion, inconceivable that his mother would ever have uttered such words, noting that she 'served the late Queen for 17 years and was rewarded for her loyalty, work and affection by a CVO'. 'Throughout her long service my mother was the soul of discretion,' he added, pointing out that his mother would 'no doubt' have learnt the necessity for such discretion while married to his father, who was successively Governor of the Bank of England and then British ambassador to Washington. 'It would be totally alien to my mother to make a comment on a member of the Royal Family to anybody, least of all to one of her grandchildren,' concludes Lord Cromer, 'and especially to Lady Venetia Baring, my daughter, who was born after the death of Diana, Princess of Wales.' Evelyn is now divorced from Venetia's mother Shelley, and living in Thailand with his third wife, Jiraporn Buengman. See the full feature in the February issue of Tatler available via digital download and on newsstands from Thursday 1 February. Chinese New Year will be marked by followers on February 10 in 2024 - but what does it mean if you were born in the Year of the Dragon? TikToker Victoria Mei, from the US, recently warned users who were born in the Year of the Dragon with some of her predictions, on her account @vc.mei. She felt that this year would bring those born in the Chinese zodiac year the chance to shine in their careers, and also advised her 79,000 followers against marriage. But social media users were left confused as they were faced with conflicting advice, with some claiming they'd heard it was a good time to get married. In the clip which has since amassed just shy of 30,000 views she said: '2024 is the year of Dragon. 'If you're born in the Year of Dragon, this year is the turning point of your career. USA-based TikToker Victoria Mei recently warned users who were born in the Year of the Dragon with some of her predictions Canadian content creator @chinesewithlia told her fans born in the dragon zodiac year to wear red, to ward off any bad luck 'You will be able to show your talents and abilities this year and to gain more career opportunities. 'Second, don't get married this year. 2024 is called the widow year in China; there is no beginning of the spring in the lunar calendar in China. 'It is very unlucky to get married this year in China'. One TikTok user said: 'I'm a dragon and my wedding is this month' and another said: 'Some say that this year is a lucky year to get married, I'm confused!' But one user, convinced by Victoria's advice asked: 'Can I renew my vows then?' This comes after a similar video made by Canadian content creator @chinesewithlia was published, who told her fans born in the dragon zodiac year to wear red, to ward off any bad luck. In the 27-second-long clip, Lia told her 438,000 followers to be wary of the bad luck Chinese New Year 2024 would bring them if their zodiac is the dragon. 'If you were born in these years, your zodiac sign is dragon and when your zodiac year comes around, that will bring you bad luck. Some TikTok viewers were left perplexed by Victoria's marriage advice, while others queried Lia on her red clothing rule 'We call it the ben ming nian in Chinese - the ear of fate. That year, you offend the god of age - Tai Sui. 'It will sit around your head all year around, bring you bad luck, make you get in trouble. But don't worry, there's a way to fix it. You need to ask a relative to get you something in red, like long johns, red belt, red socks, red lingerie or underwear'. TikTok users were quick to ask Lia what items of clothing in the colour red made the cut, with one asking: 'Is a red bracelet good?' and another asking: 'Do I have to wear my red hat all year?' But one account admitted: 'I wore red underwear on new years so am I safe'. Princess Marina mourned the loss of her husband Prince Vittorio Emanuele, in Turin, Italy on Friday. The Duchess of Savoy, 88, was joined by close family at the Sant'uberto Chapel as she paid respects to her late husband, who passed away earlier this month, aged 86. She was joined by her son Prince of Venice Emanuele Filiberto, 51, his wife French actress Clotilde Courau, 54, and their daughters Princess Vittoria and Princess Luisa in the Reggia of Venaria Reale. Vittoria, 20, and Luisa, 17, of Savoy sat in front of their grandfathers coffin during the lying in state on the eve of his funeral ceremony. The family, who were dressed in all black, appeared emotional as they grieved the Prince of Naples in the chapel. Princess Marina mourned the loss of her husband Prince Vittorio Emanuele, in Turin, Italy on Friday Princess Luisa of Savoy attends Sant'uberto Chapel to mourn the loss of H.S.R. Vittorio Emanuele of Savoy Vittoria, 20, and Luisa, 17, of Savoy sat in front of their grandfathers coffin during the lying in state on the eve of his funeral ceremony He was the son of the last king of Italy, Umberto II, who went into exile after the country voted to become a republic in 1946. However, despite the results of the referendum, the House of Savoy always maintained its claim to the throne and cited the Spanish example to prove its case. Spain restored its monarchy in 1975 when the nation returned to a democracy following the death of General Franco. After the House of Savoy fled Italy when he was just nine years old, Prince Vittorio Emanuele spent most of his life in exile in Switzerland and Portugal. He went on to marry Marina Ricolfi Doria and the couple had a son, Emanuele Philibert. After battling for decades, the Prince of Naples finally returned to Italian soil in 2002 after parliament lifted a clause in the Italian Constitution which barred his family from setting foot in the nation. During his visit he held an audience with Pope John Paul II, but he encountered a frosty reception with the Italian people. The heir to the defunct throne was no stranger to controversy during his lifetime, after also being arrested in connection with the death of a German teenager in 1978. The Duchess of Savoy, 88, was joined by close family at the Sant'uberto Chapel as she paid respects to her late husband She was joined by her son (L-R) Prince of Venice Emanuele Filiberto, 51, his wife French actress Clotilde Courau, 54, and their daughters Princess Vittoria and Princess Luisa in the Reggia of Venaria Reale Prince Vittorio Emanuele of Savoy, the son of the last King of Italy, has died in Geneva at the age of 86 Dirk Hamer was 19 years old and asleep on a boat in a Corsican port when he was shot during in his right leg. He died three months later. At the time, the Italian Prince was also at the port, arguing with a group of tourists whom he accused of stealing his inflatable boat. More than a decade later, Vittorio Emanuele was arrested in France in connection with the killing, but he was cleared at a court in Paris in 1991. He was given a suspended sentence for possession of a rifle. However, the plot thickened 20 years later when a recording emerged of the exiled royal appearing to admit to killing Hamer. The recording was filmed in Potenza jail, where he was being held ahead of a trial for racketeering and involvement in prostitution (of which he was acquitted). Princess Marina, Emanuele Filiberto, Clotilde Courau, Princess Vittoria, Princess Luisa and a family friend mourn the loss of H.S.R. Vittorio Emanuele The family, who were dressed in all black, appeared emotional as they grieved the Prince of Naples in the chapel During the 2006 recording, he is seen telling other inmates he had taken the court for a ride after his acquittal. In the video, he described firing two shots which hit the tourist as he was sleeping on his boat off the island of Cavallo in 1978. After the clip emerged, he dismissed it as 'manipulated' and 'not true'. In the clip, as reported by the Independent, the exiled prince said: 'I was in the wrong... in the wrong. 'I have to say I took them for a ride... the prosecutor had asked for five years and six months. I was sure of winning. 'They gave me a six-month suspended sentence [for arms possession]; six months, there was an amnesty, they didn't even register [the sentence]. I got out!' Prince Victor Emmanuel of Savoy flanked by Princess Marina of Savoy and her son Emmanuel Philibert of Savoy The exiled prince grew up between Switzerland and Portugal after his family fled Italy in 1946 when it became a republic However Hamer's family renewed their calls for the exiled prince to face justice following the release of the recording. The mystery surrounding Hamer's death became a focus point in Netflix documentary The King Who Never Was. The documentary was directed by journalist Beatrice Borromeo, who is Princess Caroline of Monaco's daughter-in-law. It later emerged that Beatrice, who has also modelled for Vogue, was the person who leaked the recording. Speaking to Tatler last year about the story, Beatrice said: 'for as long as I can remember the story of this case was part of our lives' adding that Hamer's mother Birgit is her own mother's best friend. Viewers have slammed a young couple for being 'spoiled' after they unveiled that they had a whopping 850,000 to spend on their first home. This week, Escape to the Countryside followed engaged couple Anna and Jack who shared their desire to own a joint four bedroom in Buckinghamshire. Fans of the show BBC show were shocked to learn that they nearly 1 million to do it, saying they wanted 'plenty of outdoor space, four bedrooms, a utility room, and a large kitchen.'. The couple already own individual flats in St Albans, but were now ready to trade their lives in for the countryside for their first home together. However, Anna, a civil servant, and Jack, a consultant, have since been dubbed 'privileged' and 'spoiled' by viewers, prompting them to reveal just how they came into the truckload of cash. Escape to the Countryside followed engaged couple Anna and Jack who shared their desire to own a joint four bedroom in Buckinghamshire Speaking to The Mirror, they said: 'While I consider this to be largely a private matter, to quell the "mummy and daddy" nonsense, I will say that we inherited in circumstances nobody would choose, and recognise that we are very fortunate to earn salaries that we can leverage.' Jack also condemned property prices in the UK, insisting that it's merely impossible for first-time buyers to purchase a home without a huge budget. He added: 'Our budget buys a small apartment in most of London, where 9 million people live. This is just plain wrong.' Jack urged people to redirect their anger to politicians who have ignored the housing crisis for far too long. 'We are in election year, and yet neither Sunak nor Starmer have even a hint of a housing plan', Jack added. Shocked viewers took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to share their thoughts. The couple were branded 'spoiled' by viewers of the show One person wrote: 'Mums got escape to the country on and a couple younger than me have just rocked up with a budget of 850,000 for their first home and let me tell you, the deep guttural 'oh f** right off' I just let out could be heard from space.' Another fumed: 'Don't you hate it when 20 somethings have 850k at their disposal? Where's the life suffering before success? 800,000 average price in Buckinghamshire. 'UK housing prices are obscene. Half a mil for a terraced property. They need a 30 per cent haircut. #escapetothecountry.' 'A young couple probably in their 30s on escape to the country today have a budget of 800k. F*** off,' someone else ranted. 'OMG I literally have 8 in my bank account and these children have that much money. Honestly HOW? How do people have money like that in this day and age,' another questioned. Where on earth do two young kids get a budget of 850,000 in this day and age half of them cant afford an ad free Netflix subscription,' said another. The couple already own individual flats in St Albans, but were now ready to trade their lives in for the countryside for their first home together Average house prices in the UK have slumped by 3,000 over the past 12 months, and the rate of decline is increasing, new figures released by the Office for National Statistics have shown. In the 12 months to October 2023, house prices in Britain have fallen by 1.2 per cent. The equivalent figure for the 12 months to September 2023 showed a fall of 0.6 per cent. At the same time, private sector rents have rocketed by more than 6 per cent. According to the figures collated by the ONS and the Land Registry, the average price of a house in the UK is now 288,000, compared with 291,000 a year ago. However, there are some significant regional variations, with prices in England falling by 1.4 per cent to 306,000, and Wales decreasing by 3 per cent to an average of 214,000. But in Scotland, the market showed a slight 0.2 per cent increase to an average of 191,000. Foodies are lining up around the block to get a taste of decadent pastries from an unassuming bakery with a delightful secret. Shadow Bakery is in the inner-city suburb of Darlinghurst in Sydney and serves up a range of treats created by three head chefs from popular ice-cream brand Messina. Tom Mitchell, Florian Fritsch and Remi Talbot all have impressive resumes with Mitchell boasting a previous role as head pastry chef at Zumbo Patisserie and Fritsch once working at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal and Rockpool. Talbot is Shadow's full time baker after working as head chef at the Messina Creative Restaurant for six years and a pastry chef at Den in Japan. The three chefs started Shadow Bakery more than two years ago as a monthly pop up stall and opened their first brick-and-mortar store in October 2023. Sydney foodies are lining up around the block to get a taste of Shadow Baking's incredibly decadent pastries Behind the indulgent creations are three of beloved ice cream brand Messina's head chefs; Tom Mitchell, Florian Fritsch and Remi Talbot The trio have come up with an impressive menu of ultra-gourmet flaky pastries including croissants, tarts, danishes, scrolls and focaccias. Some fan favourites are the blueberry cheesecake tart, the Vegemite, avocado and fermented chilli scroll and the pandan and coconut brioche which is easily identified by its striking green filling. Also on offer is a Tarte Flambee Scroll with speck, onion and creme fraiche; a tomato and mozzarella danish; and mortadella and scarmorza - a fancy ham and cheese croissant. Classics include a plain or almond croissant as well as delicious focaccias with either confit garlic and rosemary, or tomato and hot honey. Fan favourites include the blueberry cheesecake tart, the Vegemite, avocado and fermented chilli scroll and the pandan and coconut brioche easily identified by its striking green filling Also on offer is a Tarte Flambee Scroll with speck, onion and creme fraiche, tomato and mozzarella danish and mortadella and scarmorza, a fancy ham and cheese, croissant Visitors have been raving about their experiences at Shadow bakery with one saying their focaccia was the 'best they've ever had'. 'A bakery by Messina just sounds like heaven and sure tastes like it too...A bakery by Messina just sounds like heaven and sure tastes like it too,' one customer said. 'My wife's a pastry chef, so Ive tried all kinds of treats, but Shadow baking takes the cake! Super cool spot with out-of-this-world pastries,' a second wrote. 'The BEST in Sydney no doubts,' added another. Shadow Baking Darlinghurst is open every Thursday to Sunday from 8am but you better be quick as they close once everything has sold out. Some visitors have reported getting there at 10am to find it closed or with only a couple of pastries left. Shadow Baking can also be found at the monthly Cannery Markets in Roseberry where they've had a stall for the past year and a half. A Brazilian man suffered a never-before-seen reaction to an erection drug sold on Britain's high streets. The 40-year-old developed pustules small bumps on the skin containing fluid or pus covering his chest, face and thighs after taking tadalafil, sold as Cialis in the UK. Doctors say medics should be aware of the 'potential adverse reaction, considering the growing use of tadalafil'. The unidentified man, who now lives in Portugal, denied taking any drugs when he originally visited his doctor complaining of the rash. Five days later, when his condition worsened, he confessed to taking tadalafil. The 40-year-old developed pustules small bumps on the skin containing fluid or pus covering his chest, face and thighs after taking tadalafil, sold as Cialis in the UK. Pictured, pustules on his thigh Doctors say medics should be aware of the 'potential adverse reaction, considering the growing use of tadalafil'. The unidentified man, who now lives in Portugal, denied taking any drugs when he originally visited his doctor complaining of the rash. Pictured, pustules on his chest Under UK regulations, Cialis can be sold over-the-counter but only in pharmacies for as little as 22, so that men are questioned about their health before they are sold the pills. This also means men cannot buy the drugs at corner shops, supermarkets or petrol stations as is possible with aspirin and other drugs He told medics his symptoms began a few days after taking the drug to treat his ED. The man stopped taking tadalafil and steroids eventually helped clear his skin. Manufacturers of the drug claim Cialis, sold for as little as 5 per pill, is superior to Viagra, made with sildenafil, because it works quicker, in just 30 minutes. Its effects can also last for up to 36 hours six times longer than the little blue pill. Under UK regulations, Cialis can be sold over-the-counter but only in pharmacies, so men are questioned about their health before they are handed the pills. This means men cannot buy the drugs at corner shops, supermarkets or petrol stations as is possible with aspirin and other drugs. Sales are limited to a box of 10mg pills known as the 'standard dose'. The team who treated the man at Hospital de Santa Maria in Lisbon did not disclose his dosage. After taking a skin biopsy where a small sample of skin is removed to be examined under a microscope doctors diagnosed him with acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP). Typically, AGEP starts on the face or in the armpits and groin before spreading. Research suggests more than nine in 10 cases are provoked by medications, often antibiotics like penicillin. Writing in the journal Urology Case Reports, medics said it was vital health professionals recognised AGEP as a potential side effect of tadalafil, 'especially given the escalating demand for erectile dysfunction medications'. Further research is also needed to understand why the drug triggers AGEP, they added. Drugs like Viagra and Cialis are used to manage erectile dysfunction in at least two thirds of cases, according to the NHS. Erectile dysfunction is more common in the over-40s but affects men of all ages. It impacts around 4.3million men in the UK and 30million in the US. But experts say up to 70 per cent men are too embarrassed to seek advice over the problem, stopping them from seeking help. More seriously, many men turn to the internet to buy supplies of the drug, often buying illegal or counterfeit versions from overseas, putting them at risk of taking dangerous fakes. Two in three patients in England have seen queues for NHS dentists worsen since Covid, MailOnline can reveal. Our fascinating interactive map created with the most up-to-date statistics lays bare the reality of the never-ending crisis across all 42 NHS districts. In the worst-affected regions, known as 'dental deserts', there are 2,776 patients for every one NHS dentist. Ratios have also soared by a fifth on pre-pandemic levels in some areas, piling huge pressure on overwhelmed practices that are already juggling thousands of patients on their books. Some Brits have been forced to pull out their own teeth with pliers or travel abroad including to Ukraine to see a dentist because of dire lack of NHS access. Others have been left with no choice but to queue from 4am outside newly-opened NHS practices in hope of securing a check-up. Scenes outside one surgery in Bristol this week were described as being 'reminiscent of Soviet-era Eastern Europe'. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. This chart shows the number of dentists who carried out NHS activity each year, the figure dropped sharply during the Covid pandemic but has slightly recovered to just over 24,000 according to the latest data Nationally, there was one NHS dentist for every 2,342 patients in 2023, on average. But experts say the reality is much worse, with the crisis masked by statistics which only record dentist headcounts not how much NHS work they perform. In essence, it means that a dentist who saw one NHS patient the entire year counts just the same as one who sought no private work. NHS Gloucestershire recorded one dentist per 2,399 patients in 2022/2023, up from 2,011 patients per dentist in 2018/2019. How much does NHS dentistry cost? There are 3 NHS charge bands: Band 1: 25.80 Covers an examination, diagnosis and advice. If necessary, it also includes X-rays, a scale and polish, and planning for further treatment. Band 2: 70.70 Covers all treatment included in Band 1, plus additional treatment, such as fillings, root canal treatment and removing teeth (extractions). Band 3: 306.80 Covers all treatment included in Bands 1 and 2, plus more complex procedures, such as crowns, dentures and bridges. For comparison, check-ups can cost between 20 and 120 at private dentists, according to Which?. Dentures and bridges can also cost up to 2,520, the consumer watchdog says. Advertisement It logged the biggest hike in the dentist-patient ratio out of the entire country (19.3 per cent). But it is NHS Norfolk and Waveney that logged the largest disparity between dentist and patient numbers (one dentist for every 2,776 patients, a 17.1 per cent increase). Seven of the 42 integrated care boards (ICBs) across England saw rates increase by at least 10 per cent. Only 14 ICBs saw their ratio shrink, MailOnline found. NHS Frimley saw its ratio plunge 13 per cent in four years, to 1,358 patients per one dentist in 2022/2023, suggesting people in this area have the easiest access to dentists. NHS Birmingham and Solihull also recorded one dentist per 1,804 patients, a 10 per cent reduction in ratio size. The crisis in NHS dentistry has been brewing for years, with the UK now among the poorest performers for dentists per head of population in Europe. British Dental Association (BDA) analysis last year found that more than 1,000 fewer dentists were carrying out NHS work in 2022 than there were before the pandemic. Around 95 per cent of practices were also not accepting new NHS patients. A spokesperson for the BDA told MailOnline: 'This [NHS] data is a work of fiction. 'It's counting heads not commitment, so an NHS full timer caries the same weight as a dentist doing a single NHS checkup a year. 'The Government is finally gathering data on how much NHS work dentists actually do. Only then will we know where the real dental deserts actually are.' Daisy Cooper, Lib Dem health and social care spokesperson, said: 'It should not be too much to ask that people are able to see their dentist when then need to. Your browser does not support iframes. 'Instead, people are missing vital check-ups which can lead to painful consequences down the line with many unable to even get registered to an NHS dentist. 'This Conservative government has overseen a shameful rise in dental deserts. 'Vast swathes of the population have been completely abandoned, with a single dentist expected to cover staggering amounts of people.' Latest figures also show roughly 26million adults haven't had a check-up in the last two years, about 60 per cent of the population. This is one of the lowest proportions since modern records start in 2006 when over half of adults were able to get appointments. It comes after No10 this week unveiled its long-awaited NHS dental recovery plan, described as 'putting NHS dentistry on a sustainable footing'. Under Rishi Sunak's bold blueprint to fix the appointments crisis plaguing millions, dentists will be offered up to 50 to see patients who haven't had a check-up in the last two years. Around 240 dentists roughly one per cent of the current workforce will be offered a one-off 'golden hello' bonus of up to 20,000 for working in under-served areas for up to three years. 'Dental vans' will also be rolled out in rural and coastal areas so people in the most isolated communities will still be able to access help. The Government is also planning to controversially add fluoride to the drinking water of millions more Brits in a bid to passively protect their oral health. Earlier this week, hundreds of desperate people including children and the elderly were pictured queuing outside St Pauls Dental Practice in Bristol after it opened its doors to new patients Police were even forced to turn some patients away. Pictured, patients outside St Pauls Dental Practiceon Wednesday But, after two full days of snaking lines, prospective patients were met with a sign on the door that said: 'We are not enrolling anymore patients.' Pictured, the sign outside St Pauls Dental Practice on Wednesday morning Officials hope the measures could see up to 2.5million additional NHS appointments delivered for patients over the next 12 months. But the plan unveiled 10 months after it was promised was slammed by dental bosses and politicians for not going far enough, with one saying that it amounted to 'rearranging the deckchairs'. Health leaders instead called for 'radical reform' of the dental contract, accusing Mr Sunak of U-turning on his pledge to restore the crippled industry. Labour has also accused the Government of lifting much of the blueprint from their own plans. NHS dentistry has been in crisis for years, with leaders claiming the sector has been chronically underfunded, making it financially unviable to carry out treatments. Exacerbating the problem is that, as more dentists leave the NHS, those that remain become swamped by more and more patients. Dr Paul Woodhouse, who has a dental practice in Stockton-on-Tees told BBC Radio 4 yesterday: 'People have attempted to take their own teeth out, DIY fillings. 'We've had to send people to A&E because they've got life threatening infections. We are back in Victorian times.' Meanwhile, one caller, known only as Mike who lives in Dorset, said the situation was a 'dental desert'. He told the Today programme: 'We lived in Surrey about 18 months ago and I had an NHS dentist. It didn't occur to me that when we moved to East Dorset that it would be so difficult to find one. In the new Labour ad, headlined 'Dentistry Isn't Working', snaking queues of would-be patients are pictured waiting to register with the newly-opened NHS dental practice in Bristol Saatchi & Saatchi designed the famous poster for the Tory Party ahead of the 1979 general election, which saw Margaret Thatcher run against Labour prime minister James Callaghan 'When we arrived I tried to find one. There was nobody taking on NHS patients. I was amazed to find they wouldn't even put you on a waiting list. 'I've tried to use the NHS website. After having some tooth pain I had an emergency appointment and had to go and pay privately. 'I was simply told that the nearest place I might get a walk-in appointment was Southampton. That's an hour and a half to an hour and three-quarters drive. 'East Dorset is essentially a dental desert as far as I'm concerned and I still don't have one.' Earlier this week, hundreds of desperate people including children and the elderly were pictured queuing outside St Pauls Dental Practice in Bristol after it opened its doors to new patients. But, after two full days of snaking lines, prospective patients were met with a sign on the door that said: 'We are not enrolling anymore patients.' Police were even forced to turn some patients away. Labour used the footage to slam the Government's dentistry record, repurposing the Tory's famous 1970s 'Labour Isn't Working' ad with the new headline 'Dentistry isn't working'. Doctors today called for President Joe Biden to receive cognitive tests that prove he's fit to serve after an astonishing week of gaffes, as well as a report from the justice department that raised serious questions about his health. The DOJ report described Biden, 81, as a 'elderly man with a poor memory', finding that he did not remember the years he was vice president and could not recall, 'even within several years', when his son Beau died. Doctors reacting to the assessment said forgetting key events like the death of a loved one were a hallmark of cognitive decline, a precursor for dementia, and called for the incumbent to take cognitive tests to 'prove to the public' that he is mentally sound. Last night in an unusual move, Biden angrily addressed the nation about the DOJ report, telling Americans 'I know what the hell I am doing!' and insisting that 'my memory is fine.' However, moments later he committed another startling gaffe, referring to the Egyptian leader as the President of Mexico. Concerns about the president's health have hit a fever pitch following a week of shocking gaffes that saw Biden confuse dead foreign leaders with current ones multiple times. Biden on Thursday angrily addressed the nation about the DOJ report, telling Americans 'I know what the hell I am doing!' and insisting that 'my memory is fine.' Moments later, he referred to the Egyptian leader as the President of Mexico At the 2021 G7 Summit, Biden claimed to have been addressed by German Chancellor Helmut Kohl regarding the nature of the January 6 insurrection. Kohl died in 2017 and was not at the 2021 summit Dr Stuart Fischer, an internal medicine physician in New York, told DailyMail.com that a cognitive test for the president was 'long overdue'. 'If you want to prove to the public [that he's mentally and physically sound], you've got to show them,' he said. 'You're in the top job in the country... you have got to be able to produce.' He pointed out to the transparency from the Royal Family in the UK, who announced King Charles' cancer diagnosis earlier this week, urging the White House to apply the same level of honesty when it comes to Biden's health problems. 'Look at King Charles - this is called honesty and this is how we should all live, they are reassuring the public. Honesty is the best policy,' he said. The same transparency should be applied with Biden in the US, Dr Fischer added. Last night, Republicans Rick Scott and Marjorie Taylor Greene calling for Biden's Cabinet to invoke the 25th Amendment, which says that a president can be removed if they are unfit for duty. It gives the vice president and Cabinet power to remove the commander in chief from office via a majority vote in the event it's determined he or she is no longer fit for office. It has never been invoked in US history. Ironically, there were calls for Former president Donald Trump to be impeached in 2018 on the basis that he was mentally unfit for office. Dr Jane Orient, executive director of the right-wing Association of American Physicians and Surgeons, told DailyMail.com: 'I think the 25th Amendment is a political one and is unlikely to happen because the Democrat party and all the Cabinet secretaries are going to be loyal to Biden and they're happy with things as they are. 'But I think a case can be made [that it should be invoked]. Speaking just as a citizen who observes him talking and observes the gaffes, I have reason to be very much concerned. 'The person who is commander in chief of our armed forces and making very critical decisions about every second of our life may not know what he's doing.' She called for 'basic cognitive tests' to be carried out and made public. On February 6, Biden stumbled through another press conference, even forgetting the name of Hamas when asked a question about a hostage negotiations between the terror group and Israel On February 4, Biden confused Macron with dead French leader. Speaking in Las Vegas on Sunday, Biden said: 'And Mitterand from Germany I mean, from France looked at me and said "You know, what why, how long you back for?"' Biden referred to the former president as the sitting president during a speech at a Democratic Party dinner in South Carolina, sparking a wave of ridicule from online conservatives The long-awaited investigation into Biden's mishandling of classified documents was released Thursday, and included hours of interviews with the President. The investigation found: 'He [Biden] did not remember when he was vice president, forgetting on the first day of the interview when his term ended (if it was 2013 when did I stop being Vice President?), and forgetting on the second day of the interview when his term began (in 2009, am I still Vice President?). 'He did not remember, even within several years, when his son Beau died.' One of the reasons investigators decided not to press charges was because 'at trial, Mr. Biden would likely present himself to a jury, as he did during our interview of him, as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory'. Dr Orient said that while previous attacks from Republicans about Biden's health could be framed as partisan, the conclusion's from his own DOJ was a potentially pivotal moment. 'Obviously something from his own justice department has a lot more credence than people who can be accused of being biased which carries a lot less weight.' Biden's week of gaffes February 8: Mixing up Egypt and Mexico President Biden angrily addressed the nation following the DOJ's report, telling Americans, 'I know what the hell I am doing!' and insisting that 'my memory is fine.' However, moments later he committed another startling gaffe, mistakenly referring to the Egyptian leader Abdel Fattah al-Sisi as the 'president of Mexico.' When he fielded a question about the humanitarian situation in Gaza, Biden said: 'I think, as you know, initially, the president of Mexico, Sisi, did not want to open up the gate to humanitarian material to get in. I talked to him. I convinced him to open the gate.' Biden also got his political colors mixed up, and said: 'I'm gonna be a president for everybody, whether you live in a red state or a green state.' February 8: Damning DOJ report A DOJ report described Biden as a 'elderly man with a poor memory', finding that he did not remember the years he was vice president and could not recall, 'even within several years', when his son Beau died. The report was the culmination of a long-awaited investigation into Biden's mishandling of classified documents, and included hours of interviews with the President. February 7: Claimed he met dead Chancellor At the 2021 G7 Summit, Biden repeated claims he met a dead German chancellor. He claimed to have been addressed by German Chancellor Helmut Kohl regarding the nature of the January 6 insurrection. Kohl died in 2017 and was not at the 2021 summit. Biden said: 'Helmut Kohl of Germany looked at me and said, 'What would you say Mr. President if you picked up the London Times tomorrow morning and learned there's 1000 broken down the doors of the British parliament, killed some [inaudible] on the way in to deny the next prime minister to take office. And you think, what would we think?' Biden did meet with the German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, at the G7 Summit but Kohl died on June 16, 2017, and had not been chancellor since 1998. February 6: Forgot Hamas On Tuesday, Biden stumbled through another press conference, even forgetting the name of Hamas when asked a question about a hostage negotiations between the terror group and Israel. He said: 'There is some movement, and I don't wanna, I don't wanna, let me be choose my wordsthere's some movement. There's been a response from the, uh, there's been a response from the opposition, but um' Biden had been delivering a speech promoting the Emergency National Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, a border-security bill. February 4: Confused Macron with dead President Speaking in Las Vegas on Sunday, Biden told an anecdote about attending the summit in England in June 2021, where he referenced speaking to French President Francois Mitterrand, who died in 1996, instead of current leader Emmanuel Macron. Biden said: 'And Mitterand from Germany I mean, from France looked at me and said "You know, what why, how long you back for?"' February 3: Cancelled Super Bowl interview Biden has decided to skip the traditional sit-down interview ahead of Sunday's Super Bowl. It marks the second year in a row Biden will skip the interview. His critics have claimed the cancellation is due to fears he will make another public gaffe. January 27: Called Trump 'sitting president' Biden referred to the former president as the sitting president during a speech at a Democratic Party dinner in South Carolina, sparking a wave of ridicule from online conservatives. He said: 'In recent weeks, we're starting to see real evidence that American consumers are facing real confidence in their economy we're building. 'Let me tell you who else is noticing: Donald Trump. Did you see what he recently said about he wants to see the economy crash this year? 'Sitting president. As they say in my faith, bless me father for, I mean, come on, man.' Advertisement A new NBC poll revealed that 62 percent of voters said they have 'major concerns' about Biden's mental and physical health. Dr Yusuf Hameed, an anesthesiologist from Georgia, told DailyMail.com: 'His mental faculties are diminishing... It happens to everyone, but some signs of dementia occur at a faster rate than others. 'It's hard to delineate those patients who will have accelerated signs of dementia, but remembering conversations with dead world leaders is concerning.' 'If a prosecutor is unwilling to prosecute because of a person's poor memory and frailties, then Biden has problems,' he added. On Saturday, he referred to the former president as the sitting president during a speech at a Democratic Party dinner in South Carolina, sparking a wave of ridicule from online conservatives. On Sunday, he confused current French President Emmanuel Macron for the former President of France, Francois Mitterrand, who died in 1996. And twice during the description of a 2021 conversation at campaign events on Wednesday, the president mistakenly mentioned the late German chancellor Helmut Kohl instead of referring to the former Chancellor Angela Merkel. Dr Arthur Oliva, a psychiatrist at University of Louisville in Kentucky, said on X: 'This is the most concerning news I've heard about Biden's memory. 'Making gaffes during speeches or stumbling over words is one thing, but this is legitimately bad recall. 'Typically people's short-term memory is lost first, but having recall issues with when he was vice president is bad.' Dr Oliva added he was commenting as a concerned citizen, not as his doctor making a medical assessment. For the 25th Amendment to be invoked, the vice president, together with a 'majority of either the principal officers of the executive departments or of such other body as Congress may by law provide' must issue a written declaration that the president is unable to carry out his duties. Once such a declaration has been sent to Congress, the vice president immediately becomes acting president. Voters in the upcoming 2024 presidential election have long been faced with the question, when does a verbal gaffe go from innocent slip-up to a cause for genuine concern? President Biden has committed several public flubs in the past week that have raised voters eyebrows: he confused the names of European leaders for their dead predecessors, referred to former President Trump as the sitting President, and momentarily forgot the name of the Palestinian terror group Hamas. Mr Biden has repeatedly fended off charges that he is too old for the top job indeed, hes the oldest sitting US President. But fears of age-related frailty and cognitive decline have not stopped the party from coalescing around him once again to make him the presumptive nominee for the upcoming election. Mr Trump has committed his fair share of verbal fumbles on the campaign trail, but his base of supporters appears far less concerned about their candidates mental fitness than the general electorate does of Bidens. Neurologists specializing in aging and gerontology would typically administer one or several tests specifically designed to gauge cognitive impairment. Dr Fischer told DailyMail.com that it could be a case of mild cognitive impairment, but a comprehensive round of testing is the only way to know for sure. Dr Kenneth Heilman, a neurologist at the University of Florida College of Medicine, told DailyMail.com: The only way really, if you're worried about a person who's aging, is have them have a full evaluation by a neurologist to see if they meet the criteria [for cognitive impairment]. Memory lapses and lost trains of thought have plagued the Biden campaign, garnering ridicule from Republicans and worry among his supporters biting their nails in anticipation of the oldest Presidential match up ever. Early signs of cognitive decline could be chalked up to the normal aging process. About 40 percent of people 65 and older suffer some amount of memory impairment, but only one percent go on to have dementia. Fatigue from long travel days and mental and physical exertion exacerbate these signs. Memory lapses once in a while could be considered senior moments, but when they happen repeatedly and are amplified in a very public arena, doctors say it merits a closer, clinical look. When diagnosing a patient showing signs of impairment, Dr Heilman said: There's a whole series of things that you're looking at. Typically we see somebody, we talk to them for a while to see how their language is. Sometimes when we speak to them, if they do have a lot of problems finding words, that becomes concern, and we like to see if they comprehend when we speak to them. If they don't understand our request, that becomes a concern. From there, doctors can choose from a battery of tests, such as the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, a simple in-office test that asks people to draw a cube, identify animals, and draw a clock to detect mild cognitive impairment. They may also administer the Mini-Cog, a three-minute test for the patient that consists of two components, a three-item recall test for memory and a clock drawing test. Another is the MiniMental State Examination, which assesses various cognitive abilities including orientation, attention, memory, language, and visuospatial skills. He said: These evaluations, what they do is they assess what's called recent memory. And then we look at other kinds of what we call cognitive functions. We listen to their speech, are they having problems with their speech or language, when they speak on are they finding words okay or they what we call recall circumlocution around the words. The most common test, according to Dr Heilman, is the Boston Naming Test to assess a persons word-finding ability. It consists of 60 black line drawings, presented in order from easiest to most difficult, that the test-taker has to name in 20 seconds or less. The head of the drug giant also bemoaned the environmental cost of the jabs Revolutionary weight loss jabs that ministers hope will turn the tide on the war on flab waste away patients' muscles, a pharma boss has warned. Injections such as Wegovy, which mimic a hormone that tricks the body into being full, have been approved in Britain to help tackle the obesity crisis. But Pascal Soriot, boss of AstraZeneca, a company best known for its Covid vaccine, warned that they could shrink patients' muscles. Doctors have previously warned this effect could leave users metabolically 'fatter' because they then have a higher fat-to-muscle percentage, and raise the risk of them piling the pounds back on once they stop taking the medication. 'Today you lose weight but you lose fat and you lose muscle', Mr Soriot said, according to The Telegraph. AstraZeneca boss Pascal Soriot warned of the downsides of weight-loss jabs made by the company's rivals as the Anglo-Swedish drugmaker moves to enter the obesity medication market Mr Soriot said weight loss jabs, such as market leader Wegovy, make patients lose muscle as well as fat and also bemoaned the environmental cost of the single use injections 'Most people as soon as they stop taking the medicines, they regain fat, but not so much the muscle that they have lost unless, of course, they go to the gym.' The market for weight-loss drugs is predicted to be worth billions in the coming years as nations grapple with the financial and societal cost of obesity. Mr Soriot said pharmaceutical companies needed to 'improve the quality' of weight loss drugs to both ensure effects didn't disappear when patients stop taking them and to reduce side effects like muscles loss. He also bemoaned the environmental cost of the single-use jabs. READ MORE: Great British Bake Off's Prue Leith says weight loss jabs like Ozempic 'take the joy out of life' as she calls for schools to teach children how to cook healthy meals Prue Leith said the injections 'take the joy out of life' and should only be used by people who are desperate Advertisement 'If you think about a billion people using one plastic pen every week, that's a lot of plastic. All these plastic pens will become an issue at some point,' he said. The Anglo-Swedish company has fallen behind rivals like the Danish Novo Nordisk, which makes Wegovy, and US firm Eli Lilly, the creator of recently approved Mounjaro. But it hopes an upcoming pill, cheaper than the jabs, will allow it to gain ground in the market. AstraZeneca has struck a 1.6billion deal with a Chinese biotech company Eccogene for an experimental pill they are developing. Mr Soriot said the broad aim will be to combine the fat-busting pill with other medications to help treat some of the consequences of obesity, like hypertension and heart disease. While no price for the pill has been announced, weight-loss jabs can run up between 180 to 300 per dose privately. However, if prescribed on the NHS, people will only pay a basic prescription charge of 9.65 in England. Novo Nordisk, the market leader, has its specific weight-loss jab Wegovy, as well as Ozempic, a diabetes drug that uses the same active ingredient and has controversially being prescribed 'off-label' for weight loss. This has led to some diabetes patients who use the drug facing supply shortages. Novo Nordisk is enjoying a massive boom in profits, revealing last month it was making 32million per day, as countries grappling with the financial cost of flab fighting to get their hands on the jabs. The UK is one of them. The latest data for England show almost two thirds of adults are too fat, compared to just half in the mid-90s. Obesity also takes a financial toll, with the resulting health consequences on loss working years, care costs, and price of NHS treatment costing the economy an estimated 100billion per year. Experts have warned that Wegovy is not a 'magic pill'. Trials have shown that users can rapidly pile pounds back on once they stop taking it, and it can trigger a side-effects including nausea, constipation and diarrhoea Your browser does not support iframes. While hailed as a 'gamechanger' in the fight against bulging waistlines, the jabs have downsides. Patients have to take the jabs for life or see the pounds they lost pile back, doctors have warned. Secondly, like any medication, they can have side effects that vary in both frequency and severity. These include nausea, constipation and diarrhoea, fatigue, stomach pain, headaches and dizziness. Weirder and much rarer side effects, like hair loss, have also been reported. Brits will be able to buy private Pfizer Covid jabs from chemists as early as next month, if the drug giant gets its way. Throughout the pandemic, jabs have only been available on the NHS. Today, however, the UK's medicines regulator gave the green light to Pfizer's mRNA Omicron jab being sold on the high street. Pfizer has not yet revealed how much it will charge per dose, but pharmacists are already gearing up to start offering a rival jab for around 45. Chains will set their own prices, like with flu jabs. The pharmaceutical giant is in talks with major pharmacy chains, such as Boots, to sell the vaccine to people who cannot get one on the NHS. Pfizer has not yet revealed how much it will charge per dose, but pharmacists are already gearing up to start offering a rival jab for around 45. Chains will set their own prices, like with flu jabs Uptake for the autumn booster roll-out stood at around 68.8 per cent (pictured). As of December 2023 7.8million people had received a jab under the programme It comes as health officials this week indicated eligibility for the NHS drive will likely be slimmed down to save money. Experts have long called for Covid vaccines to be sold privately ever since the threat of the virus began to fade. Pfizer was one of the major winners of the pandemic. While lives and businesses crumbled amid lockdowns and disruptions to life during Covid, the New York City-based firm became a household name. During the height of the pandemic, everyone was eligible to get jabbed against the virus. Officials were desperate to build-up immunity in the population, effectively creating a 'wall' that kept Covid at bay and allowed the country to embark on post-lockdown life. Yet over the past few autumn and spring booster roll-outs, jabs have been restricted to at-risk Brits, such as care home residents, over-65s and frontline NHS workers. As such, millions have not had a booster jab since late 2021. The upcoming spring roll-out is expected to be open to an even smaller cohort, with millions aged 65-74 no longer likely to be eligible. Experts say offering Covid vaccines privately like what happens with the flu every winter is a no-brainer. Even one of the Government's own vaccine advisory panel said it was a 'good idea' ahead of the autumn 2023 roll-out. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), which polices the safety of drugs used in Britain, today granted approval for providers outside of the NHS to thaw and dish out Pfizer's Omicron XBB.1.5 vaccine, which must be kept at temperatures of -80C before being thawed. Once thawed, doses must be used within a tight time-frame or they are wasted. Pfizer's jab is attractive to non-NHS providers because it can come in a single-dose vial, meaning pharmacies don't have to get several shots ready at once. It uses the same formulation the regulator approved in September. Anyone over the age of 12 can get it. Pfizer said it will start selling to pharmacies and private health providers in England, Scotland and Wales from March. Dr Gillian Ellsbury, the company's primary care medical director, said: 'As we move from a pandemic to an endemic state, we need to ensure we remain ready to respond to this constantly evolving and unpredictable virus. 'Vaccines remain an important pillar in helping to prevent serious illness or hospitalisation as a result of Covid. 'By enabling the wider availability of the vaccine we are facilitating choice and access for those that are not eligible to receive it through the NHS programme but want the option of a Covid vaccine.' Last week, Pharmadoctor, a clinical service provider, which works with more than 8,000 pharmacies across the UK, announced it would be offering private Covid vaccines from April 1 for as little as 45. Supplies will be of the Novavax vaccine. Moderna has already publicly said it is seeking to offer its jab privately. A 2022 study led by academics at Imperial College London suggests almost 20million lives were saved by Covid vaccines in the first year since countries began rolling out the jabs, the majority in wealthy nations Ministers paid around 20 per dose to Pfizer during the height of the pandemic for its jabs. The company hasn't yet revealed what it will charge privately. But in August Moderna said it expects to quadruple its own price when the jabs are offered privately. It comes as the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) which advises the Government on vaccination this week indicated an NHS 2024 autumn booster programme would likely be 'smaller' than previous years. The JCVI said Covid is now a 'relatively mild disease' for the vast majority of people. High population immunity now 'permits the development of a more targeted programme' aimed at people who are most likely to become seriously ill from the disease. While the 'greatest threat' from Covid comes in winter both in terms of risk of infection and pressure in the NHS the virus 'continues to occur throughout the year', the JCVI acknowledged. It would continue to review 'optimal' vaccination timings and frequency beyond spring 2024, it added. The Government also said further advice on the autumn programme is expected 'in due course'. But uptake for the autumn booster roll-out has been sluggish, standing at around 68.8 per cent. Millions have still never even had one jab. Health officials, however, remain concerned over the spread of the virus after an uptick in cases in January blamed on a super-infectious variant called Juno. The practice is meant for terminally ill people with six months or fewer to live A majority of US states have either legalized medically assisted suicide or are considering legislation that would do so. The pro-medical-dying movement has seen a groundswell of support since struggling to rack up wins in the 90s, with most successful initiatives only coming into practice after 2013. In ten states and Washington, DC, euthanasia is legal, while 19 other states are considering their own legalization measures. Most of the states where it is legal allow doctors to administer life-ending medications to a person with six months or fewer to live, but the exact criteria varies by state depending on who is in charge there. Your browser does not support iframes. Medically assisted suicide has become legal in 10 states and Washington, DC , while 19 other states are considering their own legalization measures The US population is aging rapidly by 2040, about one in five Americans will be 65 or older. At the same time, more than 170 million Americans could be living with one or more chronic conditions by 2030. But while many state leaders and health professionals are advocating for assisted dying as a new option for end of life care, many doctors argue that the practice runs counter to the foundation of their profession. Efforts in the 90s to legalize medically assisted suicide crashed more often than not, with the exception of Oregon, which, in 1997, became the first state to legalize what it calls death with dignity. Authors of the Oregon legislation were careful in writing it not to characterize the act as a suicide, assisted suicide, mercy killing, or homicide, part of an effort to rebrand and reposition it as a medically sanctioned and regulated procedure. The term assisted suicide and others like it are now considered by doctors to be outdated, opting instead to call it medical aid in dying because the patient controls when they take the death-inducing medication prescribed by a doctor. Euthanasia is legal in seven countries Belgium, Canada, Colombia, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand and Spain plus several states in Australia Lynda Bluestein, 76, who pushed for Vermont to expand its medically assisted suicide law to non-state residents died by taking lethal medication Eleven years after Oregon passed its law, Washington became the second state to pass a Death with Dignity law via ballot initiative voted on by residents. That law was expanded in 2023 to let more healthcare providers sign off on requests for a medically assisted death and allowed the medications to be mailed to the patients. In 2009, medical aid in dying became available in Montana when the state Supreme Court ruled in favor of terminally ill Marine veteran Bob Baxter. Vermont came next in 2013 with its law, followed by California, which later reauthorized it in 2021. Colorado, DC, Hawaii, Maine, New Jersey, and New Mexico followed in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2021, respectively. Another 19 states are considering measures to legalize medical aid in dying. In contrast, several others, including Vermont and Oregon, have expanded their laws to allow non-residents to go there to get life-ending medications from a prescriber. Among those traveling from other states to Vermont was Lynda Bluestein, a 76-year-old from Connecticut with a terminal cancer diagnosis who lobbied Vermont to ease its out-of-state restrictions on assisted dying. She traveled to Vermont to end her life this month, with her husband Paul describing his wife's final moments as 'comfortable and peaceful.' He said her last words were: 'I'm so happy I don't have to do this [suffer] anymore.' But even if the practice becomes legal, many doctors may be adamantly opposed to carrying it out, saying it contradicts their directive to first do no harm. The core ethics statement of the influential American Medical Association has said for years: Permitting physicians to engage in assisted suicide would ultimately cause more harm than good. Physician-assisted suicide is fundamentally incompatible with the physicians role as healer, would be difficult or impossible to control, and would pose serious societal risks. The practice is legal in Canada as of 2016 for those whose death is reasonably foreseeable. A new law was initially set to go into place next month that would make medically assisted death accessible to people suffering from mental illness. Around 13,200 Canadians chose assisted death in 2022, 31 percent more than the 2021 tally, federal health ministers reported. Of those, 463 were not terminally ill but had other, not-named conditions. A man in Taiwan went permanently blind in one night after sleeping on it A man in Taiwan went permanently blind in one eye after a night of binge drinking and falling asleep face-down. The unnamed patient, 44, went to an emergency room in Puzi City, Taiwan, after three days of blindness and pain in his left eye. He said the symptoms began after he had gone out drinking and taken medication for insomnia. The patient had passed out for three hours and fallen asleep in a position that put pressure on the affected eye. When doctors examined him, the left pupil did not move or respond to light. Experts wrote in the case report that the patient was experiencing ophthalmoplegia, meaning that his eye muscles were paralyzed. The eye was also bulging. When doctors examined the unnamed patient, his left pupil did not move or respond to light Pressure on the eye caused blood vessels to rupture, leading to a hemorrhage The team found that the pressure on the eye has caused the subconjectival blood vessels, which sit just beneath the clear surface of the eye, to rupture. This led to a hemorrhage and the tissue surrounding the eye to become swollen. The patient was diagnosed with ischemic optic neuropathy (ION) and choroidopathy. ION occurs when blood doesn't flow properly to the eye's optic nerve, which carries signals from the eyes to the brain and turns them into images you can see, leading to vision loss. Vision loss from ION is typically permanent, as the optic nerve eventually stops working properly and dies. However, patients with ION tend to still have some peripheral vision. People with conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, and diabetes are at higher risk for developing ION, as they can impair blood circulation. The patient's left eye also protruded outward due to the injury Choroidopathy, meanwhile, is a disease that causes fluid to build up under the retina, the layer at the back of the eye that captures light and translates it into images. Symptoms typically include dim and blirred blind spots in the center of vision, distortion, and objects appearing smaller or further away than they actually are. 'Historically, this condition has been known as "Saturday night retinopathy' because of its association with the use of alcohol and sedating substances,' the experts wrote. 'There is no consensus on management of the condition.' The patient received high-dose steriods to keep pressure from worsening. While some people report regaining vision, after four months, this patient reported still being blind in his left eye. The case report was published in the New England Journal of Medicine. A Nevada jury has awarded about $130 million in damages to patients who suffered extreme liver damage after drinking trendy bottled water laced with toxic chemicals. Five people suffered excruciating pain and loss of control of limbs after drinking the $2.99 'alkalized' Real Water that contained hydrazine, an extremely flammable and cancerous chemical used to make rocket fuel. Myles Hunwardsen underwent a liver transplant at age 29, while Jazmin Schaffer, Tina Hartshorn, Miriam Brody and Christina Sosa all suffered liver failure. In October, a state court jury also awarded more than $228 million in damages to several plaintiffs including relatives of a 69-year-old woman who died and a seven-month-old boy who was hospitalized. Both were diagnosed with severe liver failure. The company admitted negligence, saying the chemical likely entered the water during the manufacturing process. It said the water undergoes a seven-stage purification process to remove certain ions, particles and bacteria. It is thought that hydrazine may have been added to the water during treatment before bottling. Jazmin Schaffer lost function of her hands and started shaking uncontrollably while driving The product was marketed as premium 'alkalized' water with healthy detoxifying properties. According to the Real Water website, the water is passed through a resin bed, charcoal filter and UV light sanitizing unit among other things to remove certain ions, particles and bacteria. It is then treated with the company's E Technology, which stands for Electron Energized, where electrons are added to the water. The end product is said to contain only two ingredients - purified water and potassium bicarbonate, an alkaline mineral. It is thought that hydrazine, a chemical used in rocket fuel, may have been added to the water during treatment before bottling. The water was marketed by Las Vegas-based Real Water before the product was recalled from store shelves in 2021 after the spate of illnesses. The Clark County District Court jury awarded more than $30 million in compensatory damages to the plaintiffs including Myles Hunwardsen, a Henderson man who underwent a liver transplant at age 29. The jury levied another $100 million in punitive damages. The four other plaintiffs were each awarded more than $1 million in compensatory damages. Jazmin Schaffer, 33, started to drink Real Water in October 2020 after her boyfriend got her bottles delivered to their home. They ordered two or three five-gallon jugs every two weeks. Ms Schaffer said she drank around a gallon a day, but they used the water for everything from cooking to making tea and coffee. Mid-October, Ms Schaffer began to feel ill. She had a pain in her abdomen, felt 'very, very nauseous,' and suffered brain fog and severe fatigue. She was sleeping more than 12 hours a night and began vomiting multiple times a day. There was also blood in her vomit. Ms Schaffer went to urgent care and was told she was just dehydrated and to drink more water. Then one day while driving, she lost function of her hands and started shaking uncontrollably. 'I couldn't grab the steering wheel,' she told the jury through tears. She then went to Spring Valley hospital where she was admitted. Doctors told her she had liver failure and five times the amount of liver enzymes than normal. She was informed that she may need a liver transplant. 'It was very scary. I didn't know what was going on,' she said. She was forced to undergo a liver biopsy without any pain medication because of the state her liver was in. She was in pain for a month after and said it 'hurt to breathe.' Miriam Brody was 78 when she was taken to Henderson Hospital and treated for liver failure Tina Hartshorn fought back tears as she gave her testimony Miriam Brody started drinking Real Water in November 2018 when she was 78. She purchased liter bottles of the water from Costco. She was at a beauty salon when she suddenly became hot all over and her face swelled up. Her hands began tingling and she passed out. Once she came round, she vomited and had diarrhea. 'I felt like I was out of control of my whole body,' she told the jury. She also had stomach ache and said she had never experienced anything like it. 'It was really scary because I couldn't figure out what was wrong. Especially when you're a little older, you think, this is it.' She continued to drink Real Water but a few weeks later, she suddenly felt ill again and began shaking, so she called 911. She was taken to Henderson Hospital where she was treated for liver failure. In October 2020, Tina Hartshorn ordered five-gallon jugs of Real Water to her home in the north Las Vegas Valley. She drank the water daily for almost a month before she began to feel sick. She started vomiting and suspected an ear infection. 'The more water I drank, the worse I got,' she told the Las Vegas Review-Journal. By November, Mrs Hartshorn was admitted to Centennial Hospital where she was kept for nine days, running up a $100,000 medical bill in the meantime. She had almost lost the ability to speak and could not keep any food down. Physicians wondered if she was diabetic because her insulin was so low, but she told them she was not. The verdict reached Tuesday was the second large-sum award in a negligence and product liability case involving AffinityLifestyles.com Inc. and its Real Water brand, which was sold in distinctive boxy blue bottles as premium treated 'alkalized' drinking water with healthy detoxifying properties. Alkaline water usually has a pH level of eight or higher, while standard water has a 'neutral' pH level of seven. Some believe the water can reverse the signs of aging or even prevent cancer, though there is no scientific evidence to back it up, and many experts believe claims about alkaline water are nothing more than marketing gimmicks. The Mayo Clinic recommends to just drink regular water. The Food and Drink Administration (FDA) warned people not to drink the alkaline water The most high profile case was that of Myles Hunwardsen (pictured) who had to be airlifted to the hospital for a liver transplant after drinking the company's water Real Water brands itself as alkaline water that can serve as an alternative to tap water, but and FDA complaint alleges the water was just tap water mixed with a chemical compound 'We want to send a message to food and beverage manufacturers that they should be committed to quality assurance,' Will Kemp, a lawyer who represented plaintiffs in both trials, said Thursday. Kemp said several more negligence and product liability cases are pending against the company, including one scheduled to begin in May stemming from liver damage diagnoses of six children who ranged in age from seven months to 11 years old at the time. Affinitylifestyles.com was headed by Brent Jones, who served as a Republican state Assembly member from 2016 to 2018. Kemp said Jones has declared bankruptcy and moved out of the state. Other defendants in the case reached confidential settlements before trial, including Whole Foods Market and Costco Wholesale, which sold the water, and testing meter companies Hanna Instruments and Milwaukee Instruments. Terrible Herbst, a convenience store chain, reached a settlement during the trial. At trial, jurors were told that tests found Real Water contained hydrazine, a rocket fuel chemical that may have been put in the water during treatment before bottling. Real Water attorney Joel Odou argued that the company was unintentionally negligent, not reckless, the Las Vegas Review-Journal reported. He said the company didn't know hydrazine was in the water and didn't know to test for it. The water the company used was from the Las Vegas-area public supply, which mainly comes from the Lake Mead reservoir behind Hoover Dam on the Colorado River. The Southern Nevada Water Authority, the region's main public supplier, monitors and tests for 166 different possible contaminants, spokesman Bronson Mack said Thursday. Hydrazine is not among them. Mack noted that the water authority was not a defendant in the lawsuits and said the area's municipal water supply meets or surpasses all federal Safe Drinking Water Act standards. Real Water was sold for at least eight years, primarily in Central and Southern California, Las Vegas, Phoenix and Utah. It was also promoted on social media and sold online. The US Food and Drug Administration and the Las Vegas-based Clark County Health District issued public warnings beginning in March 2021 not to drink or use the product, and ordered it pulled from store shelves. This is how a doctor performs the test, and how a patient is graded: 1. ALTERNATING TRAIL MAKING TEST: The patient is told to pair up five numbers and letters (1-5, A-E) in ascending order (pairing 1 with A, 2 with B, etc) while drawing connect-the-dots lines. RESULT: The patient gets a point for every successful pair: 1-A; 2-B; 3-C; 4-D; 5-E. No lines can be crossed. The patient earns 0 if they make a mistake that is not immediately corrected. 2. VISUOCONSTRUCTIONAL SKILLS (CUBE) TEST: Draw your own version of the cube in the space next to it. It must be exactly the same as the one printed on the page. RESULT: One point if it is drawn correctly (i.e. three-dimensional, all lines are drawn, no line is added, lines are relatively parallel and their length is similar no point if any of those criteria are missing). 3. VISUOCONSTRUCTIONAL SKILLS (CLOCK) TEST: Draw a clock, putting in all the numbers and set the time to 10 minutes past 11 o'clock. RESULT: One point is allocated for each of the following three criteria: Contour (ONE POINT): the clock face must be a circle with only minor distortion acceptable (i.e. slight imperfection on closing the circle). Numbers (ONE POINT): all clock numbers must be present with no additional numbers; numbers must be in the correct order and placed in the approximate quadrants on the clock face. Roman numerals are acceptable. Numbers can be placed outside the circle contour. Hands (ONE POINT): there must be two hands jointly indicating the correct time; the hour hand must be clearly shorter than the minute hand. Hands must be centered within the clock face with their junction close to the clock center. A point is not assigned for a given element if any of the above-criteria are not met. 4. NAMING TEST: Name each animal. Lion Rhinoceros (or rhino) Camel (or dromedary) RESULT: One point for each 5. MEMORY TEST: The doctor tells the patient that they are going to read a list of words that the patient must remember. At the end the patient has to tell them as many as they remember; it doesn't matter what order. The doctor then reads five words, one per second: FACE, VELVET, CHURCH, DAISY, RED As the patient recites the words, the doctor marks a check in the box for each word said aloud. The patient indicates when they have recalled all they can. The doctor reads the list a second time. At the end the patient has to recall all of them again. As the patient recites the words, the doctor marks a check in the box for each word said aloud including the first five again. The patient indicates when they have recalled all they can. At the end of the test, the doctor asks the patient to recall the five words, unprompted. This is the part of the test that is scored. SCORING: No plus points, only minus if they get it wrong. 6. ATTENTION TEST (NUMBERS): Recall numbers: The doctor reads a list of five numbers at a rate of one number per second; the patient recalls them exactly as they were said: 2 1 8 5 4 Recall numbers backwards: The doctor reads three numbers at a rate of one number per second; the patient recalls them backwards: 7 4 2 SCORING: One point per sequence correctly recited. TEST (LETTERS): The doctor reads a list of letters at a rate of one per second. Every time they say the letter 'A', the patient has to tap their hand: F B A C M N A A J K L B A F A K D E A A A J A M O F A A B SCORING: One point if there is zero errors or just one error (i.e. the patient tapped their hand on another letter just once). TEST (MATH): The patient starts at 100, then must count down by subtracting seven every time, until the examiner tells them to stop: 93 86 79 72 65 SCORING: Total of three points. No points if there are no correct subtractions One point for just one correct subtractions Two points for two or three correct subtractions Three points for four or five correct subtractions If the first subtraction is wrong, but each subsequent subtraction follows the pattern of seven, they still earn every other point. For example, they may say '92 85 78 71 64'. While '92' is incorrect, all subsequent numbers are subtracted by seven, meaning they only made one mistake, and would a score of three. 7. SENTENCE REPETITION TEST: Step one: The examiner reads this sentence, and the patient has to repeat it exactly: 'I only know that John is the one to help today'. Step two: The examiner then reads another sentence, with the same instruction: 'The cat always hid under the couch when dogs were in the room'. SCORING: One point for each correct sentence. Exact repetition No synonyms substituted (i.e. it must be 'hid' not 'hides') 8. VERBAL FLUENCY TEST: The doctor reads out a letter (F), and the patient has to think of words that starts with that letter. The aim is to reach 11 words or more in 60 seconds. The words cannot be proper nouns, like Bob or Boston The words cannot be the same sounding word but with different suffixes (like love, lover, loving) SCORING: One point if they reach 11 words or more in one minute. 9. ABSTRACTION TEST: The patient has to describe what the relationship is between certain words (i.e. an orange and a banana; a train and a bicycle; a ruler and a watch). There is one practice trial (ORANGE AND BANANA) before two scored pairs (TRAIN AND BICYCLE; WATCH AND RULER). SCORING: One point for each of the last two pairs. Acceptable answers: Train and bicycle: means of transport, means of traveling, used to take trips Ruler and watch: means of measurement, measuring instruments Unacceptable answers: Train and bicycle: they have wheels Ruler and watch: they have numbers 10. DELAYED RECALL TEST: The patient has to recall all the words they heard earlier (FACE, VELVET, CHURCH, DAISY, RED). SCORING: One point for each word recalled (with no cues from the examiner). 11. ORIENTATION TEST: Say the exact date, and the name of the place they are in, including the city. SCORING: One point for each correct answer. No points if they make any errors. TOTAL SCORE: Add up all the points accumulating, adding a point if the patient has fewer than 12 years of formal educations. Developer Douglas Jemal is buying another well-known downtown Buffalo building just a block or two from his Mohawk Ramp and Simon Electric projects. Jemal confirmed that he is acquiring the Scherer & Sons Furniture building at 124 Genesee St. from the family that has owned and operated the classic solid-wood furniture business for more than 127 years. Its now in the midst of a going-out-of-business sale. Jemal did not say how much he is paying for the deal, which is expected to close in the next two to three months, but said it would likely be a cash deal. Sign up for the Buffalo Next free newsletter The News' Buffalo Next team covers the changing Buffalo Niagara economy. Get the news in your inbox 5 days a week. I love the building, Jemal said. Theres historic significance. Its got a lot of potential. Its a gateway site on Genesee. Jemals plan for the Scherer building calls for a combination of first-floor retail plus about 40 apartments upstairs in the 23,764-square-foot building. At about $200,000 to $250,000 per unit, he projected a development cost of about $20 million. I think its a signature building, Jemal added. Its part of our overall plan for a living downtown, to create some vibrancy downtown. Founded in 1897, the five-generation furniture business is known for its North American solid hardwood furniture, offering brands like Stickley, Kincaid, Hilltop Hickory, Amish, Superior, Howard Miller, Hekman, Wesley Hall, Gat Creek, Door Country, Urban Barnwood, McKinley Leather, Whittier Wood, Weaver, Sotline, Restonic and Bedtech. The business is currently owned by Fred Scherer III, 90, and his son, Jim, who plan to retire. The Scherers are conducting a going-out-of-business sale at the store, which takes up the entirety of the four-story masonry building, next to the blue storage-container building housing Casa Azul, and just steps from Oak Street and the Catholic Health headquarters. Our family has poured heart and soul into this business and were immensely grateful for the unwavering support of our community for an amazing 127 years, Jim Scherer said in a statement last month announcing the stores closure. The project would likely qualify as a historic preservation project, with state and federal tax credits. Among other historic features, Jemal plans to keep the giant industrial sliding doors between rooms that separate what were two structures originally. Its a great element to the building, he added. He said construction would take about 18 months once work begins. The site also has parking in a fenced lot next door. And its close to Jemals Mohawk and Simon properties, where he already plans to create 450 to 600 apartments over the next several years, along with retail space and additional parking. The first phase of that venture, the redevelopment of the historic Burns building, is already moving forward, with the city already approving his project to create 65 new apartments. From the haunting case of a retired policeman grappling with the past to a thrilling psychological debut, check out our critics' picks of the best new books to read this weekend. MUST READS JANE SHILLING Dancing With The Red Devil By Sarah Standing (Headline, 12.99, 320pp) At 61, Sarah Standing had led a charmed life. The daughter of film director Bryan Forbes and actress Nanette Newman, she had an idyllic childhood. She was happily married to actor John Standing, with three grown-up children and two grandsons. But in November 2020 she suddenly began feeling breathless. Convinced that nothing serious was wrong, she was shocked to hear the diagnosis was lymphoma. The fact that her treatment coincided with the Covid lockdown was especially devastating, because it made it much harder for her to look after Nanette, now widowed. Sarahs fierce and defiantly funny memoir is an unflinching account of chemotherapy (the red devil of the title), hair loss and holding it together with the help of an army of supporters, from medical staff to family and dear friends (including family friend Sir Elton John). Old God's Time By Sebastian Barry (Faber 9.99, 272pp) Tom Kettle is a retired policeman, living alone on the Irish coast. Visitors are rare, so he is surprised when a pair of detectives from his old division arrive to discuss a cold case. Back then, the power of the Catholic Church meant that priests who abused children were seldom brought to trial. In this case, one of the alleged perpetrators escaped prosecution, while the other was murdered. New evidence has emerged, and Toms former colleagues need his assistance. Also in need of help is his neighbour, Miss McNulty. She is an actress with a young son, living in fear of her violent husband. In this haunting novel by the highly acclaimed Irish novelist, the ghosts of the past emerge to reveal long-hidden secrets and tragedies. For all its grief and horror, Toms story is illuminated by the inextinguishable power of love. Clytemnestra By Costanza Casati (Penguin 8.99, 416pp) While Helen of Troy is immortalised in Greek mythology as the Spartan princess whose beauty unleashed the Trojan war, her sister Clytemnestra is remembered as a murderous wife who killed her second husband, Agamemnon, after he sacrificed their daughter, Iphigenia, to the goddess Artemis. Constanza Casatis debut novel presents Clytemnestra as a spirited girl who could match the Spartan boys in skill and courage. But an ominous prophecy foretells a troubled future, predicting that both Helen and Clytemnestra will marry more than once and desert their husbands. And so it proves. Agamemnon kills Clytemnestras beloved first husband, King Tantalus, and their infant son, then forces her to marry him. When Agamemnon returns in triumph from the Trojan war, Clytemnestra prepares to avenge Iphigenias death. Constanza Casatis powerful novel vividly reclaims Clytemnestra as a heroine of heartbreaking vulnerability and strength. BEST NEW FICTION Green Dot By Madeleine Gray (Weidenfield & Nicolson 18.99) Aged 24 and armed with three arts degrees, Sydney native Hera is both knowing and naive. Compelled to join the world of work as an online content moderator, she decides to make office life more interesting by flirting with an older, married guy its what corporate types do, right? But as their affair gathers pace, her feelings become genuine, teeing up a droll coming-of-age story that explores what were really looking for when we fall for the wrong person. Hephzibah Anderson Nuclear Family By Kate Davies (The Borough Press 16.99) Davies delivers a funny, moving novel about reproduction, IVF and biological identity thats packed with explosive emotion and warmed by empathetic understanding. It starts when Lena buys DNA testing kits for her twin sister Alison and their dad Tom. The results are decidedly unexpected, prompting reflections on the meaning of family as Tom is forced to reveal a secret, a famous half-brother materialises and Alison and her wife embark on their own journey to parenthood. Eithne Farry Red Menace By Joe Thomas (Arcadia 22) This is the second chapter in Thomass epic trilogy of policing and corruption in 1980s East London. At the heart of it is undercover spy cop Parker. His mission is to infiltrate local radicals but hes increasingly unsure whose side hes really on. Meanwhile money is pouring in like never before. Juggling storylines like a box-set drama rather than a conventional thriller, Thomas builds up an absorbing portrait of a time when everything was in the balance. John Williams LITERARY FICTION STEPHANIE CROSS How To Be Somebody Else By Miranda Pountney (Jonathan Cape 16.99, 288pp) This Rooney-esque debut follows 38-year-old Dylan, a would-be writer and English expat, as she implodes one version of her life and steps into another. Blowing out her Manhattan ad-agency job, she adopts an economical approach to the truth with her devoted long-distance boyfriend Matt and finds herself a gig housesitting for an artist. Its not long before shes embarked on an affair with her married musician neighbour, Gabe but what does his wife, Kate, actually know? Theres not a lot here to distinguish this from the glut of similar novels in the cool coming-of-age vein. But its entertaining and sharp enough to keep the pages turning. Happiness Falls By Angie Kim (Faber 16.99, 400pp) Braiding linguistic theory with a pandemic-set missing person mystery, this comes endorsed by author of the moment Gabrielle Zevin. Our narrator is Korean-American grad student, Mia, whose life is turned upside down when her younger brother, Eugene, returns from a hike distressed and without their father. But theres a snag Eugene has both autism and a genetic condition that renders him non-verbal. As the family frantically try to unlock the truth that only Eugene knows, Mia is drawn into her fathers obsessive research into the relativity of happiness, which throws new light onto both his past actions and dramatic disappearance. Kim wears her heart on her sleeve, stressing in an afterword the danger of equating verbal skills with intelligence (and their lack with its absence). And as an emotive portrait of life with a special needs sibling this feels authentic and compelling. So its a shame that hyperlexic Mias maximalist approach to commentary, some heavy retrospective irony and clunky cliff-hangers encumber the endeavour. Pity By Andrew McMillan (Canongate 14.99, 192pp) Award-winning Barnsley-born poet McMillan writes whereof he knows in this short but memorable debut. Set in the authors hometown, it follows three generations of men in the shadow of the pits and their post-industrial replacements anonymous call centres such as the one where Simon works. But Simon has side hustles an OnlyFans account that pays the bills (despite his boyfriends reservations) and a subversive drag act that he dreams of turning into art. Dressing up as the hated Maggie Thatcher, he can mine the identity that Thatchers Section 28 necessitated he kept hidden as a child. Meanwhile, academics have descended to extract memories from inhabitants, and Alexs uncle Brian finds himself obliging. Interspersed throughout are incantatory sections of prose poem that indelibly summon the reality of life in the mines the cages, the dust, the suffocating weight of earth and history above building to a gut-punch of a reveal. Sensitive, skilful and original, this is a debut to applaud. PSYCHOS CHRISTENA APPLEYARD The Trials of Lila Dalton By L J Shepherd (Pushkin Vertigo 16.99, 352pp) Now and again a new writer with a real feel for language and a genuine grasp of what makes a good psychological plot comes along. Enter L.J. Shepherd. Shepherds chief protagonist is Lila Dalton, a barrister suffering amnesia. She finds herself, for reasons she doesnt know, standing in a courtroom with a man accused of mass murder and bombing the Home Office. In case things arent weird enough the courtroom is on an island reserved for trying particularly serious cases. And on top of that Lila herself is being watched and dealing with threats against her daughter. In summary the plot sounds a bit crazy. And it is a heady, ambitious mix of courtroom drama and dystopian mystery. But, thanks to Shepherds formidable prose skills, she pulls off a winner. What We Did In The Storm By Tina Baker (Viper 16.99, 400pp) Tina Baker is still probably best known for her appearances as a TV critic on BBC and GMTV and winning ITVs Celebrity Fit Club. All that might be about to change with this, her second, and very enticing, thriller. The backdrop is Tresco where wealthy incomers and the locals seem to rub along until the aftermath of a violent storm. Everything changes when two women are attacked and one goes missing. Suddenly there are rumours and intrigue about marriages and relationships which threaten to blow up the chocolate-box image of the island. Bakers deceptively simple style belies the power she brings to storytelling and for getting under the skin of so many varied characters. The story is told by multiple voices. Sometimes there are too many, but its the only flaw in an otherwise well told tale with a satisfying conclusion. Perfect for readers who love to be transported to new places to get their thrills. Nightwatching By Tracy Sierra (Viking 14.99, 368pp) An unnamed mother has just put her children to bed when she hears a noise on the stairs and sees a man creeping up them. There is a blizzard outside and she has to make a split-second decision about the best way to survive and protect her children. She decides to hide with them in a secret room in another part of the house and wait it out. Of course this means keeping the children quiet so as not to alert him. What unfolds is a powerful account of the womans present trauma, but her past ordeals are also told in equally powerful flashbacks. However, our excursions into her past dont necessarily fill us with confidence about her reliability. Then a few more twists and turns of plot make us doubt ourselves. The extreme tension at the start of the book builds, sags a little in the middle but builds again and triumphs in a gripping and convincing finale. Not for the faint-hearted. RETROS SALLY MORRIS One Day By David Nicholls (Hodder 9.99, 436pp) As Netflix launches a new series based on this book, its hard to remember just how it swept us all up when first published in 2009. Emma and Dexter first drunkenly meet on graduation night, July 15 (St Swithins Day) 1988, at Edinburgh University and we revisit them on the anniversary every year for two decades as Emma (Northern, straight-talking, principled) and Dexter (Cotswolds, privileged, hedonistic) navigate life and attempt to stay friends as their careers, social and romantic lives diverge. Its laugh-out-loud funny but on a deeper level its a genuine exploration of relationships, integrity and love and even if you know the ending, it will still bring a lump to your throat. Titus Groan By Mervyn Peake (Vintage 14.99, 478pp) This first volume in a reissue of the Gormenghast trilogy (Neil Gaiman calls it a perfect creation) reaffirms what a master of the Gothic novel Peake was. The reclusive sixth Earl of Groan, his absurd wife Gertrude, his twin sisters and daughter live in the massive, isolated Gormenghast Castle where young Titus is born. His arrival triggers a rebellion by kitchen boy Steerpike, who harnesses the bitter resentment of the twins to stage a massive library fire from which he hopes to emerge a hero. But loyalties switch and nothing goes to plan in this extraordinary story bursting with grotesque characters, madness and mayhem. Fantasy writers of today owe his wild imagination a massive debt. Sea of Poppies By Amitav Ghosh (John Murray 10.99, 544pp) Ghoshs expansive novel traces the fate of characters from very different social backgrounds whose lives intersect on a voyage aboard a former slave ship, Ibis, crossing from Calcutta to China. Its 1838 and ruthless Benjamin Burnham is determined to maintain his lucrative poppy trading despite Chinas ban on opium imports. Passengers include Neel, a Raja convicted on trumped up charges of fraud, Deeti, a widow saved from burning on her husbands funeral pyre and French orphan Paulette, whos infatuated by Zachary, the second mate. Ghosh seamlessly weaves their stories together using pidgin slang (glossary provided) in this rip-roaring, sweeping drama, the first in a trilogy. SCI-FI JAMIE BUXTON Sunbringer By Hannah Kaner (Harper Voyager 16.99, 400pp) Difficult second novel? Hannah Kaner yanks the myth off its high horse and stomps it into the mud. This brilliantly accomplished sequel builds and expands on our first visit to Middren, the god-plagued land in the grip of endless conflict, but now with a rampaging, reborn, monotheistic monarch. Kissen, the one-legged god-slayer, is still grittily sexy but learning to hold back on slayage; Elogast, the reluctant royal knight, must come to terms with his attempted regicide. But this novel really belongs to young Inara and her godling Skedi, as she starts to understand her strength and learns how to tread the fine line between determination and fanaticism. The Burning Land By David Hair (Jo Fletcher Books 16.99, 400pp) Youve got monsters, virginal knights, forgotten civilisations and a looming apocalypse. It all adds up to a magnificent, full-throttle epic that grips, gives you a good shake but does not relent. All is not well in the Empire: the outer reaches are being ravaged by the Vyr, peasants transformed into fangy, muscled monsters, and even the Vestal Knights are in retreat. Theres an eco-parable brilliantly wrapped up in the action as Romara, a priggish knight, goes uncomfortably rogue while leading a ragtag band of renegades across a broken land. The truth is out there but can she really let go of everything she believes is right and righteous? The Fox Wife By Yangsze Choo (Quercus 20, 400pp) This rich and beguiling mix of matter-of-fact detail, pin-sharp humour and Chinese myth takes us back to Manchuria at the turn of the last century. Its a country on the edge of modernisation but still peopled by foxes: shapeshifting, magical creatures who are like us, only better looking and helplessly curious. Beautiful Yuki is looking for the brute who murdered her cub; Bao is an elderly investigator, haunted by his fox-touched past, and hired to track her down. While Yukis quest draws us into a world of political plots, betrayals and prodigious quantities of food (foxes have appetites), Bao plods steadily towards his fate: a beautiful resolution to an unfulfilled life. On a warm Saturday morning in August 1835, James Pratt said goodbye to his wife and daughter at his home in South-East London and set out for the city centre. A respectable member of the working class, he was unusually for him out of work and keen to find a new situation. Almost certainly he walked the whole way from Deptford rather than spend tuppence on the bus fare. Just a few hours later, 32-year-old James would be caught up in a hideous nightmare. He would never again see his home or hug his ten-year-old daughter, and his very life would be at stake. His first destination that sunny day was a house by Holborn Bridge, more than five miles away, where he planned to visit an Irish friend, Fanny Cannon. The London of 1835 was already a sprawling metropolis. On the cusp of the Victorian age, it appeared, superficially at least, to be increasingly civilised and wealthy, with a constantly expanding population. Fields that had once separated outlying villages, such as Islington, from the City of London were rapidly disappearing, and many feared buildings would soon cover every patch of green. MP Chris Bryant begins the three part story of James and John, the last two men in Britain to be hung for the crime of sodomy on LOST VOICES: The Tragedy of James & John Simply misreading the brush of a hand, a throwaway look or a wink, could lead to men being beaten to a pulp, ostracised or hauled up before a magistrate (stock image) Now listen to the Mail's unmissable podcast on the tragedy of James and John, hosted by CHRIS BRYANT Season 1 Episode 1: The Story of James Pratt, John Smith and Britains bloodthirsty past Available on Spotify and Apple Advertisement The area where Fanny lived was a twisted jumble of lanes, renowned both as a cauldron of poverty and a gay pick-up area. Barely two years later, Charles Dickens would set the kitchen of master-thief Fagin there in his novel, Oliver Twist. According to Fanny, a married seller of sheeps feet, James arrived at 1pm, and they had a couple of pots of half-and-half [mild ale and bitter] with their lunch. Fanny suggested he should stay to tea, but he was in a hurry to leave, telling her he was in search of a job and had to be home by six. He appeared a little affected with liquor, she added, and left at two oclock with a friend. This may have been John Smith, an illiterate labourer (aged between 34 and 42, according to clashing records) whod soon be sharing Jamess ghastly fate. What we do know is that at about 4pm, John Smith appeared downstairs at 45 George Street, a house in Southwark, and asked the landlord if a man called William Bonell lodged there. Yes, he does, he was told, but I do not believe he is within. Undeterred, Smith said hed seen him at the window and started up the stairs to Bonells room on the first floor. The landlord then saw Smith turn back and open a private side-door to let in James Pratt. Both men entered Bonells room. We dont know whether James and John already knew each other, or whether theyd met for the first time that day. What seems clear, though, is that this was an assignation. Something piqued the interest of the landlord, John Berkshire. During the 13 months that Bonell a 66-year-old widower and retired domestic servant - had lodged there, the Berkshires claimed he had frequently taken men up to his room, generally in pairs. To confirm or allay his suspicions, the landlord squeezed himself into the loft of the next-door stable and dislodged a tile. This allowed him to see into Bonells room, where he saw James sit down first on Bonells knee and then on Johns. It was cramped in the loft, so Berkshire soon gave up and went back indoors to his tea and to his wife, to whom he related what hed seen. This prompted Jane Berkshire to go upstairs and peek through the keyhole of their lodgers room. Bonell had just left in search of a jug of ale, so James and John were alone. Jane later claimed that she saw the men take down their trousers and start to have sex on the floor. Scandalised, she ran down to tell her husband. He rushed upstairs, knelt outside Bonells door and also peered through the keyhole. Then he burst through the unlocked door. James Pratt and John Smith immediately drew apart and started pulling up their trousers. Terrified, they threw themselves on their knees and begged Berkshire to let them go, offering him their purses. At that moment Bonell returned with the jug of ale. What is the matter? he asked. You old villain, cried Berkshire. You know what is the matter; you have been practising this in my place for some time past. I know nothing of what is done in my place, Bonell said, calmly pointing out that he had not been present and offering Berkshire a drink. Berkshire responded with a sneer, No, I would not drink in any such society. The commotion attracted one of the other lodgers in the house, who agreed to guard the three men while Berkshire went in search of a police constable. Thus, on August 29th, began the chain of events that would lead to one of the greatest injustices in British legal history. Whatever James and John felt about their attraction to men, however they dealt with feelings of shame and guilt, they must always have lived in fear. Simply misreading the brush of a hand, a throwaway look or a wink, could lead to being beaten to a pulp, ostracised or hauled up before a magistrate. Accusations of actual sodomy could lead to death by hanging the automatic sentence for the offence since the reign of Henry VIII. Only the rich and well-connected could defy the system, knowing they could call on impressive character witnesses and rely on a jury of their peers to acquit them. When it came to the rest, England had the most shameful record in Europe. Most other nations had never executed people for homosexuality, and those that did had abolished the practice long before. (Germanys last case was in 1537, Spains in 1647, Switzerlands in 1662, Italys in 1668 and Frances in 1750.) Yet between 1806 and 1835 in England, 404 men were sentenced to death for sodomy. Of these, 56 were hanged, while many more were imprisoned or transported. A report from 1835 details the case of James Pratt and John Smith as they were condemned to be hanged, saying the prisoners 'left the dock in tears' In the afternoon of Saturday 19 September 1835, James, John, William and 21 other prisoners were cuffed together in pairs and marched one and a half miles to Newgate Gaol (pictured) What inspired such cruelty? Religion certainly played a large part: the all-powerful Church of England ruled your life from baptism to burial, threatening damnation for the impenitent sinner. And top of the list of vices was the sin of sodomy or buggery. So visceral was public repugnance that some gay men were put in the stocks as part of their sentence, where they were pelted with dead cats, rotten eggs and buckets filled with blood, offal and dung. Yet for all the denunciations, there was a bizarre and hypocritical determination never to mention what such men were supposed to have done. It was the crime that dared not speak its name. Most newspapers made a virtue of drawing a veil over legal proceedings, claiming that such unspeakable acts could never be detailed. Even the hanging judges were coy, often making only making veiled references to depravity. Warders at Newgate, officials in the Home Office, clerks and shorthand writers at the Old Bailey followed suit, refusing to write out the whole word and inscribing b-gg-ry or s-dy instead. In many cases, all that was recorded of the trial was the name of the criminal, the nameless offence, the verdict, the sentence, the jury and the judge. This strict omerta means that todays history books make it look as if early nineteenth-century Britain was a homosexual-free zone. Indeed, the downfall of James and John can only be reconstructed thanks to the unusually diligent shorthand writer at their trial. Aware that he could include very little in his official account, he nevertheless provided a wealth of detail in an appendix the only one he ever wrote. Who were they, these two men accused of the worst crime, bar murder? Of John, we know that he came from Worcester and, like so many other country boys, had travelled to London to enter domestic service. Just 5ft 3in, he was stoutish, with light brown hair, green eyes and a fair complexion. From 1818, for at least two years, he worked as a servant for a rich family in Brunswick Square, Bloomsbury. Much of his working life, however, seems to have been spent as a labourer. We know far more about James, who was born into a poverty-stricken family in Great Burstead, Essex. Both his parents ended up in separate workhouses, where they died within days of each other in 1817. James, then 15, had already been subsisting for three years on paltry handouts from the Poor Law guardians. Like John, he made his way to London. At some point in 1818, he found a position as a groom for a trainee barrister in Camberwell, South London then still a farming village. Five or six years later, he parted on good terms with his master and moved to Deptford, where he met Elizabeth Moreland, the daughter of a shipwright, and married her when he was 20. An artist's painting of Newgate Gallows in 1891. The jail had been the capital citys sole place of execution since 1783 Few employers kept a groom on when he married. However, James was in luck not only did he find employment nearby as a footman, earning about 40 a year, but he and his wife were given free lodgings in a nearby tenement. All we know about his appearance is that he was 5ft 1in tall. As the only male servant in his masters household, his duties now included carrying coals up to rooms, cleaning boots, trimming and cleaning lamps, caring for the silverware and glasses, preparing his masters clothes, laying the table for meals, serving at table, answering the front door, announcing visitors names and locking up at night. In 1825, Elizabeth gave birth at their lodgings to a baby girl, then two years later had a boy. Given his origins, James had plenty of reasons to congratulate himself: he was in work, solvent and now a family man. Then everything changed. His employer died, and that was the end of Jamess job. Proud of never having relied on the parish since childhood, he did a short stint as a footman, then worked as a labourer on a day rate. In 1833, his six-year-old son died, and two years later the year of his arrest Elizabeth had a miscarriage. As far as his friends and neighbours were concerned, James was happily married. From his youth, however, hed known he was sexually attracted to his own sex, and London teemed with available men - such as the thousands of Navy veterans whod spent years cooped up in the sole company of other males. On that August day that they were arrested, John, James and William Bonell were marched to the local magistrates court, where they were committed for trial. The proceedings were obliquely reported in some newspapers as one of those revolting and unnatural cases. The next Sessions at the Old Bailey were not due until 21 September, so the three men were sent to await trial at the Surrey County Gaol on Horsemonger Lane, where they remained for three weeks. Visitors were allowed between 12 and 2pm every day, but prisoners had to stand on the other side of a double iron grating, with a prison officer standing in between. Explaining his predicament to Elizabeth cannot have been pleasant. Did he protest his innocence? It must have been equally harrowing for her. She had her own shame with which to contend. Would she admit the nature of her husbands unnatural crime if anyone asked her? Would she deny all knowledge? There was little privacy to ask her husband the many questions running through her head. Practical matters must also have consumed their thoughts. James was the breadwinner, and the law required that a felon be deprived of all his property when he was hanged. In the afternoon of Saturday 19 September 1835, James, John, William and 21 other prisoners were cuffed together in pairs and marched one and a half miles to Newgate Gaol. The journey would have been unpleasant, as crowds took every opportunity to jeer at criminals bound for Newgate and pelted them with whatever came to hand. The men must also have quailed at the sight of the gaol itself. Even short prisoners had to stoop to enter, as the outer door puncturing the four-foot-thick walls was just 4ft 6in high. It seemed designed to let people enter, but never leave. What primarily earned Newgate its reputation, though, was the fact that it had been the capital citys sole place of execution since 1783. Inside, the place stank, as the prisoners were kept in clammy dungeons for 14-15 hours every day; the floors were so damp that some were swimming in an inch or two of water; and straw or miserable bedding was laid on the floors. One contemporary said the darkness inside the gaol was so oppressive you could lean against it. Many referred to Newgate as Hell above ground. As James and John waited to be processed, they sat in the bread-room, where prison staff had assembled gruesome memorabilia. There were plaster casts of the heads of two murderers, executed three years before, an execution axe and the leather belts used for pinioning prisoners arms and legs before they were hanged. From here, the gaol was a series of winding high-sided corridors, dismal passages, numerous staircases, cast-iron gates and gratings, tiny windows, narrow paved yards and dank wards and cells. Each yard had a single cold-water pump, and no soap was provided to wash clothes. The very first national inspectors of prisons, who visited while James and John were there, were shocked. Newgate was, they said, an institution which outrages the rights and feelings of humanity, defeats the ends of justice, and disgraces the profession of a Christian country. Jamess only relief is likely to have been sporadic visits from Elizabeth. She had to queue up with 100- 150 people whom the prison commissioners called persons of notoriously bad character, prostitutes and thieves. But she stood by James, despite the indignity. We know of no such visitors for John or William. The following week, on Saturday 26 September, the three men were taken to the Old Bailey to be tried by a jury composed chiefly of shopkeepers. Immediately opposite them, in the Old Court, sat two aldermen, the Recorder and the beak-nosed judge, Sir John Gurney, known to be pitiless and harsh particularly when it came to homosexuals. Four large chandeliers lit the room, and a mirror reflected sunlight from the windows directly onto the prisoners faces, so that the jury could inspect them more minutely. Elizabeth watched from the public gallery, where spectators had to pay a fee. Nothing about the court was familiar to the three men. Its pomp was deliberately intimidating. Its legal jargon was incomprehensible. It must have been terrifying. As the indictment was read out, James, John and William stood up. It was long and repetitive, claiming the accused had been seduced by the instigation of the devil. The charges started with John. He had feloniously, wickedly, diabolically, and against the order of nature, committed and perpetrated the detestable, horrid, and abominable crime, among Christians not to be named, called buggery. The charges against James used similar language. As for Bonell, he feloniously and maliciously did incite, move, procure, counsel, hire, and command the two men to commit the felony. Then the trial began in earnest. It would be unrecognisable to us today, as the scales of justice were horribly unbalanced. The judge was not expected to be an impartial referee between prosecuting and defence counsel. Instead, he would often lead the prosecution. Moreover, if the accused had a defence lawyer which the three men did not he wasnt allowed to address the jury. A wily lawyer, it was feared, might persuade a jury that a rogue was an honest man. John Berkshire was the first to take the witness stand, and recounted what hed seen. Jane Berkshire was next, testifying shed seen John Smiths private parts, and had noticed the men moving. The next witness was the policeman, who said hed noted what looked like semen on Jamess shirt. That was the end of the prosecution. No modern court of law would have thought it conclusive. The three men were each asked to state their defence. But without anyone to advise them, they had no idea what to say beyond repeating they werent guilty. All that remained were the character witnesses though, sadly, neither John nor William had anyone to speak for them. First up for James was Fanny Cannon, who said shed known him for nine years. He bore a very good character for morality, decency, and everything that is good, she said. Several other witnesses no doubt found by Elizabeth - said much the same. But they failed to sway the jury who, without retiring, took mere seconds to return their verdict. James and John were guilty of a felony and William of a misdemeanour. Sentencing took place late the following Monday. This was the job of the Recorder, Charles Ewan Law, MP, who was the City of Londons senior legal officer. Everyone noted that James and John were considerably affected and wept very much during the address (stock image) Aged 43, he was virulently anti-gay. Shortly after becoming an MP, hed tabled an amendment to a bill going through parliament, proposing that the law on homosexuality be toughened further. Fortunately, the Lords thought the amendment so extreme that they killed it. Back at the Old Bailey, Law dealt first with Bonnell, sentencing him to transportation for 14 years to Van Diemens Land (Tasmania). Then the Recorder donned black gloves, and ordered that James and John be kept back while he dealt with the other convicts. Eleven prisoners duly received death sentences for crimes such as stealing 30 shillings-worth of handkerchiefs. Yet, as Law knew full well, England was losing its appetite for capital punishment, and every single sentence was likely to be downgraded later to imprisonment or transportation. In his time as Recorder, he had not yet seen a single man put to death. At least, he hoped, the case of James and John might lead to a hanging. When it was time to call them, Law suggested that women should leave the court. He then addressed the pair, saying hed separated them from the other prisoners because however great their crimes might have been, they would have been contaminated by James and Johns presence. He did not want to offend the ears of the court by dilating upon the enormity of the offence but he would implore the two men to seek mercy from God, as they stood upon the brink of eternity, guilty of offences which hardly excite a tear of pity for their fate, and in consideration of which in a British country mercy had ever been a stranger. Everyone noted that James and John were considerably affected and wept very much during the address. With that, the Ordinary of Newgate, the Reverend Horace Cotton, placed the black cap, a nine-inch square of limp black silk, on top of Laws powdered wig and the Recorder slowly intoned: John Smith, the law is, that thou shalt return to the place whence thou camest and from thence to the place of execution, where thou shalt hang by the neck till the body be dead. Like a death knell, he repeated that last word twice more, Dead! Dead! Law repeated the formula for James, before urging the men to apply the short time they had to live to God for that mercy which they could not expect to receive from the hands of a man. He could not have made the point more forcefully: there was no hope. Or so it seemed. In fact, there was still some reason to believe James and John might yet escape the hangmans noose Look out for part two of our exclusive book extract on Mail+ this weekend. James and John: A True Story of Prejudice and Murder by Chris Bryant is published by Bloomsbury Publishing on February 15 at 25. To order a copy for 21.25, visit the Mail Bookshop or call 020 3176 2937 (offer valid until 24/02/24; UK P&P free on orders over 25). Is AIM-listed microchip minnow Sondrel coming to a brain implant near you? That's the rumour that spread across the media this week, after the Daily Mail, quoting 'a source with knowledge of the matter', revealed that Sondrel played a key part in developing Tesla boss Elon Musk's braincomputer interface Neuralink. According to sources, Musk called on Sondrel to lend its highly specialised knowledge of bespoke microchip designs to Neuralink, which was successfully implanted into a patient's brain for the first time last Sunday. Sondrel wasn't dragged into confirming or denying the report, though it did remind the market that it's 'one of only a few companies capable of designing and supplying higher-spec, complex chips built on the most advanced semiconductor technologies'. 'The Group does not comment on the identity of customers,' stated Sondrel. That said, Sondrel does have an 'automotive Tier 1 supplier' in its books. Big link: The Daily Mail, quoting 'a source with knowledge of the matter', revealed that Sondrel played a key part in developing Elon Musk's braincomputer interface Neuralink Tesla? Elon Musk? Neuralink? Microchip? It's market speculation bingo. No wonder Sondrel shares flew 160 per cent higher this week. As for the wider junior market, the AIM All-Share Index closed the week half a percentage point lower at 750.8, underperforming against the FTSE 100's 0.2 per cent drop. Blue chips were weighed down by particularly poor performances from AstraZeneca, Persimmon and SSE. It was another story across the pond- the S&P 500 hit new all-time highs, coming within a whisker of 5,000 for the first time ever. You won't be surprised to hear that Magnificent 7 stocks Nvidia, Microsoft and Facebook parent Meta led the charge. Back in London, Artemis Resources Ltd led the charge in the mining sector after identifying the presence of lithium-bearing spodumene mineralisation at its Marie Lithium Prospect in the West Pilbara region of Western Australia. Artemis' share price rallied 77 per cent as a result. Strategic Minerals plc also had a bumper week with a sizable contract win that could see revenues double in the current financial year. The new client has signed up and is expected to take 5,000-7,000 tons of iron ore a year, the company said. Shares were up more than 28 per cent as a result. Hemogenyx Pharmaceuticals plc was a top small-cap mover in the biotech space. The stock flew 28 per cent higher across the week on news that the company's trials of myeloid leukaemia treatment HEMO-CAR-T can continue. The US Food and Drug Administration gave the go-ahead for the trial to continue after issues identified in June had been successfully addressed. In the same week that Viagra was discovered to potentially reduce the risk of Alzheimer's in men, AIM-listed erectile dysfunction innovator Futura Medical plc enjoyed a 40 per cent lift to its market valuation following a trading update. Investors hailed a pivotal year in Futura's commercial journey, marking the successful launch of Eroxon, an over-the-counter treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED), and the product's approval in the US. First launches of the product, a fast-acting gel, took place in the UK and Belgium, under a deal with Cooper Consumer Health, and exceeded expectations, capturing over 20 per cent market share in these regions within the first year. In-game advertising company Bidstack Group plc had a bit of a mare after a 2.4million loan agreement with strategic investor Irdeto was thrown into doubt. In a trading update, the group said it was 'keen to continue to work with Irdeto as previously announced', but the board 'feels that it must also consider other funding alternatives'. As a result, Bidstack has appointed restructuring advisers to look at all options for the future of the group, including a potential sale of the company's assets. Shares were tossed 60 per cent lower. Kinovo plc shares were knocked down 14 per cent after the specialist property services firm warned several delays meant the costs of its legacy projects had surged. Bens Creek Group plc was cut down by a third after the group disclosed that chief executive Adam Wilson is to stand down from the role. Wilson said he'll stay on until a suitable replacement is found. The group also announced a new loan with major shareholder Avani to give it additional working capital. Bens Creek's West Virginia operations were hit by severe weather conditions earlier this year. While the mine is back in production, several trains scheduled to collect contracted coal sales were delayed, resulting in a substantial backlog of coal delivery since the start of the year. Other AIM fallers included Hardide plc, down 25 per cent due to cash runway concerns, and Digital 9 Infrastructure plc, down a bruising 40 per cent after Icelandic regulators put the block on a planned spin-out pending a phase-II investigation. As an investor, you need sometimes to look beyond a wall of worry. There is, for example, every excuse to be pessimistic about continental Europe at present. The German finance minister Christian Lindner says his country is merely 'a tired man after a short night in need of a good cup of coffee'. But the sundry woes of the eurozone's largest economy require more than caffeine. The impact of higher energy and interest costs is being felt throughout the bloc, while farmers' protests in France and Holland reflect wider grievances about bureaucracy and policy. But this unappealing background should not stop you from considering the individual merits of Europe's mega-businesses whose balance sheet strength lies behind the forecast from Goldman Sachs that the pan-European Stoxx 600 index will rise by 6 per cent this year. Europe's big names include ASML, the Dutch group which is the world's leading supplier of semiconductor equipment, luxury goods leviathan LVMH and Novo Nordisk, maker of the weight-loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy. Such is the call for these injectables that the $398billion Danish company was forecast this week to be worth $1trillion by 2030. Oliver Collin, co-head of European equities at Invesco, argues that these businesses and Europe's other key players are 'global entities', whose fortunes are not dependent on the countries in which they are domiciled. Companies that are listed in the eurozone derive less than a third of their revenues from this area. Collin adds: 'These companies are universally unloved and thus could be seen as 'compellingly-priced', or even 'hugely cheap'. bIG NAMES: Europe's big names include ASML, the Dutch group which is the world's leading supplier of semiconductor equipment and luxury goods leviathan LVMH 'The opportunity set extends across a broad range of sectors from Italian bank Unicredit with its dividends and share buybacks, to the French pharmaceutical giant Sanofi whose drug development is on an upward trajectory.' The oil major Total, one of the stakes in the Invesco European Equity fund portfolio, is trading on seven times future earnings against 11 times for its US counterpart Chevron. Zehrid Osmani, manager of the Martin Currie Global Portfolio trust, which holds shares such as ASML and L'Oreal, acknowledges the issues facing Europe. Its cyclical economy will be affected by the slowdown in China, although lessening the eurozone's dependence on this nation is one of the priorities of Ursula von der Leyen, European Commission president. But Osmani believes that, despite these headwinds, 'Europe could be a good place to be'. Over the past year, the prices of US tech stocks have soared thanks to generative Artificial Intelligence excitement. But Osmani says that ASML's technology is crucial to the delivery of the huge increase in computing power and data storage required for the AI revolution. Marcel Stotzel, manager of Fidelity European Fund and Fidelity European Trust, says that two software companies, the French Dassault Systemes and the German SAP are among the other 'strong long-term winners' from AI innovation. The Fidelity European trust owns ASML, Novo Nordisk and SAP. Their share prices have all risen strongly over the past year, with further increases expected by analysts. Yet the trust's own share price is at an 8.78 per cent discount to its net asset value (NAV), reflecting the level of disaffection surrounding European stocks whose attractions have been eclipsed by the love affair with everything American. There are even wider discounts 10.78 per cent and 10.73 per cent, respectively at the European Opportunities and Henderson European Focus trusts, although both have substantial stakes in Novo Nordisk. These discounts reflect British disaffection with Europe, regardless of the prospects of its companies. Many investors withdrew cash from European funds and trusts in 2023. If they are minded to return, the trusts that are standing at a discount would seem to offer a bargain route not only to the eurozone, but also to the UK. Our stock markets are also seen as unfairly overshadowed by US tech's dazzling glamour. About 30 per cent of the European Opportunities portfolio is invested in the UK. Scanning factsheets (available online) I discovered that I have some exposure to Europe through such funds and trusts as Brunner and 3i Group, whose largest asset is a majority holding in Action, Europe's leading convenience store chain. I did hope for short-term weakness in the prices of ASML, Novo Nordisk and SAP but this did not materialise. The sound you hear is me gritting my teeth and preparing to buy. Barclays is acquiring the bulk of Tesco Bank's retail banking business for 600million. The banking giant plans to take over Tesco Bank's credit cards, unsecured personal loans and deposits, and market them under a strategic partnership with Tesco Stores for at least a decade. Tesco will hold onto its insurance, ATM, gift cards and travel money operations, which it said are 'capital-light, profitable businesses with a strong connection to our core retail offer'. It follows plans announced by rival Sainsbury's in January that will see Britain's second-biggest supermarket wind down its banking business and offer financial products through third parties instead. Deal: Barclays is acquiring the bulk of Tesco Bank's retail banking arm for up to 700million Tesco expects to receive approximately 600million of proceeds from the Barclays deal, followed by about another 100million in net cash once 'certain regulatory capital amounts' and transaction costs are settled. The grocer will also eliminate 7.7billion of capital-intensive assets and 6.7billion of financial liabilities from its balance sheet and transfer an estimated 2,800 employees to Barclays as part of the takeover. The deal is set to be completed during the second half of this year, with Tesco lining up the majority of the proceeds to fund a fresh share buyback scheme. C.S. Venkatakrishnan, chief executive of Barclays, said the tie-up with Tesco is a 'further demonstration of the investment we continue to make in our UK consumer business.' Barclays believes the takeover will not 'materially impact' its anticipated financial returns or shareholder distributions. Tesco's boss, Ken Murphy, said: 'As we look to the future, our aim is to be the best provider of financial services in the UK, with this strategic transaction and partnership with Barclays unlocking greater value for customers and for our business. 'By working with one of the UK's leading banks, we can bring customers new and innovative propositions, which will continue to benefit from Tesco Clubcard's unique insight and digital capabilities. Tesco set up its retail banking arm in 1997 under a joint venture with the Royal Bank of Scotland before buying out RBSs share 11 years later during the midst of the global financial crisis. John Lewis boss Sharon White is facing the threat of workers going on strike over fears of mass job losses. Staff have called for reassurance that jobs at the partnership, which owns John Lewis department stores and Waitrose, will be safe. There have been reports that the John Lewis Partnership (JLP) plans to slash as many as 11,000 jobs. It is looking at cutting its 76,000 strong workforce by at least 10 per cent. A bad sign: Staff have called for reassurance that jobs at the partnership, which owns John Lewis department stores and Waitrose, will be safe In a letter to White, the GMB union said it could ballot workers to walk out if White did not urgently meet with them. Around 250 JLP staff are members of the union. The union's national officer Nadine Houghton wrote: 'If workers do not get the answers they feel they deserve, they will not hesitate to request GMB begins a ballot of workers.' A spokesman for JLP said last night that the letter had been received and they would reply 'in due course'. The letter states that workers are 'deeply concerned' a recent reduction in redundancy pay amounted to 'the first step in a large round of job cuts'. According to the GMB, this move was made with 'little to no consultation' with the employee body, known as the JLP Partnership Council. An elected sub committee of the council made the decision, it is understood. John Lewis Partnership has struggled for several years. Last month White told employees there would be 'quite bold changes' as the business looks to return to profit this year. The Body Shop's private equity owner is preparing to call in administrators for its British shops. It is preparing to appoint FRP Advisory to oversee an insolvency process, leaving staff at its 200 stores in the lurch. Administrators would most likely look at closing a significant number of its UK stores, City sources told Sky News last night. In the lurch: The Body Shop was bought in November by private equity firm Aurelius in a deal it said was valued at 207m The Body Shop was bought in November by private equity firm Aurelius in a deal it said was valued at 207million. According to last night's reports, its new owner had decided The Body Shop was performing worse than it had initially thought. The cosmetics company has struggled to keep up with its rivals as the High Street has faced a downturn. Lacklustre sales at the skincare seller persuaded Natura, which also owns Avon, to ditch the brand last year. The Body Shop was founded by Anita Roddick in 1976 in Brighton, and became a favourite among the middle classes. Roddick, who died in 2007 aged 64, offered discounts to customers if they brought back empty containers and championed green causes. In recent years the group has taken on social causes such as period poverty and refugee rights. But analysts said that The Body Shop has lost its competitive edge. Barclays has just unveiled a 700million deal to buy most of Tesco Bank, leaving the supermarket bank's five million customers wondering what their future holds. Tesco Bank offers customers a wide range of financial products, including savings, insurance, credit cards and loans. But while some of Tesco Bank will be owned by Barclays if the deal goes through, the high street bank will not take over everything and Tesco will be keeping some parts of its financial business. Here is everything you need to know about the deal and how it affects Tesco Bank customers. Big money: Barclays has Tesco Bank's retail arm, including loans and savings What parts of Tesco Bank is Barclays taking over? The deal has not yet happened, and is waiting for regulatory approval that will come in the second half of 2024. Put simply, Barclays plans to take over the retail arm of Tesco Bank. That means anything to do with credit cards, savings and loans. A Barclays stock exchange announcement said the bank wants to 'enter into a long-term, exclusive strategic partnership with Tesco Stores Limited for an initial period of 10 years'. This will allow it to 'market and distribute credit cards, unsecured personal loans and deposits using the Tesco brand, as well as explore other opportunities to offer financial services to Tesco customers'. What is Tesco keeping? Tesco is keeping everything else. In full, that means travel, pet and car insurance, as well as travel money, gift cards and cash machines, as well as Tesco Mobile and the Clubcard scheme. Are there any immediate changes? No. Barclays is not closing or selling any part of the business it has bought from Tesco. As far as Tesco Bank customers are concerned, nothing will happen to change the financial deals they have entered into. These will be run by Barclays, but still badged up as Tesco. Barclays will also take on 2,800 Tesco Bank staff as part of the deal. The initial deal between the firms will last for 10 years at the least. The news follows rival supermarket Sainsbury's unveiling plans last month to gradually wind down its banking arm and focus on its supermarket business. What has Tesco Bank already sold or stopped? The supermarket-owned bank sold its mortgage operation to Lloyds Banking Group for 3.8billion in 2019. Tesco Bank also shut all its current accounts in November 2021. What has Barclays said? Barclays group chief executive C.S. Venkatakrishnan said: 'Barclays is a leading consumer bank in the UK. This strategic relationship with the UK's largest retailer will help create new distribution channels for our unsecured lending and deposit businesses. 'We are able to bring our expertise in partnership cards developed over decades in the US to enhance further the highly successful Tesco Clubcard loyalty scheme.' What has Tesco Bank said? Tesco group chief executive Ken Murphy said: 'Tesco Bank is a strong business that has helped millions of loyal customers to manage their money for more than 25 years. 'As we look to the future, our aim is to be the best provider of financial services in the UK, with this strategic transaction and partnership with Barclays unlocking greater value for customers and for our business. 'By working with one of the UK's leading banks, we can bring customers new and innovative propositions, which will continue to benefit from Tesco Clubcard's unique insight and digital capabilities.' Voters by a wide margin say the $83.3 million that Donald Trump was ordered to pay the writer E Jean Carroll in their rape-and-defamation trial was 'excessive,' our first-of-its-kind poll shows. Fully 51 percent of respondents said New York jurors went overboard in awarding damages against the former president. Another 37 percent said the sum was reasonable, while 13 percent said they were not sure. The DailyMail.com/TIPP Poll of 1,400 adults comes as Trump's lawyers mount a legal challenge against the ruling, which far exceeded the minimum $10 million Carroll had asked for. Jurors took less than three hours to reach a verdict on the massive sum in a Manhattan court Americans took to social media to air their views about the payout. One said it was 'justice for E Jean Carroll at last.' Others said it was part of a political smear campaign. One called it an 'elaborate scheme to bankrupt and eliminate the leading candidate for the US presidency.' Jurors took less than three hours to reach a verdict in Manhattan federal court last month after a five-day trial. They awarded the former Elle magazine advice columnist $83.3 million to repair her reputation, to compensate her, and to punish Trump. Carroll, 80, left the courthouse with her arms around two of her lawyers. She says she will donate the money she receives to a cause Trump 'hates' and will 'cause him pain'. She is considering setting up a fund for women 'sexually assaulted' by Trump and has threatened to bring another legal case if he defames her online again. Social media users have mocked Trump over his big-and-growing mountain of legal costs Trump says he will appeal the ruling. He says the US 'legal System is out of control,' and that the judgment was a 'political weapon.' But, in the first step in this process, a federal judge this week formally endorsed the jury's decision and ordered Trump to pay up. Our poll, which canvassed voters in early February, shows the public supports a rethink on the sum. A majority, or a near-majority of respondents across all parts of the US, called it 'excessive.' Most voters aged 25 and above said Trump was being overcharged. The only cohort that saw the payout as reasonable were younger adults, aged 18-24, who were split over whether it was fair or not. There was only a small gap between how men and women felt about the payout. The biggest difference was along partisan lines. E. Jean Carroll wants to give the $83million in damages she's set to receive from Donald Trump to a cause 'he hates' and will 'cause him pain' Fully 60 percent of Republican voters said Trump was being over-fined. Still, 47 percent of Democrats called the sum excessive which was greater than the 44 percent of Democrats who said it was reasonable. Carroll's case has become an issue in Trump's campaign to retake the White House in the November US election. Trump is the front-runner for the Republican nomination to challenge Democratic President Joe Biden, who beat him in 2020. Trump on Thursday night won Nevada's Republican presidential caucuses his third straight win in the nomination process. Carroll sued Trump in November 2019 over his denials five months earlier that he had raped her in the mid-1990s in a Bergdorf Goodman department store dressing room in Manhattan. Carroll testified that Trump's denials 'shattered' her reputation as a respected journalist who told the truth. Trump, 77, has constantly denied the assault ever happened, insists he has never met Carroll and has already vowed to appeal The businessman attended most of the trial, but was not in the courtroom for the verdict. The jury of seven men and two women, whose members were kept anonymous, awarded Carroll $18.3 million in compensatory damages, including $11 million for harm to her reputation. Carroll also was awarded $65 million in punitive damages, which she said was needed to stop Trump from continuing to defame her. Trump, 77, maintained that he had never heard of Carroll, and that she made up her story to boost sales of her memoir. His lawyers said Carroll was hungry for fame and enjoyed the attention from supporters for speaking out against her nemesis. At the trial, Trump was heard muttering that the case was a 'con job' and 'witch hunt' and that he still did not know who Carroll was. Trump's lawyer Alina Habba said she was 'proud' to defend the former president and tore into the New York judicial system after Friday's verdict The judge twice admonished him to keep quiet. In May 2023, another jury ordered Trump to pay Carroll $5 million over a similar October 2022 denial, finding that he had defamed and sexually abused Carroll. Trump is appealing that decision, and set aside $5.55 million with the Manhattan court during that process. Both appeals could take years. US District Judge Lewis Kaplan, who oversaw both trials, said the earlier verdict applied to the second trial, including that Trump had forced his fingers into Carroll's vagina. All jurors needed to decide was how much Trump should pay. Trump has separately pleaded not guilty to 91 felony counts in four criminal indictments, including two cases accusing him of trying to illegally overturn his 2020 election loss. He also awaits a decision from a New York judge on how much he should be penalized in a state $370 million civil fraud lawsuit against him and the Trump Organization. With agencies. Chinese exporters shipping millions of vapes into Australia are promising dealers they'll get their money back if the illegal smoking devices are seized by customs, explosive WhatsApp messages have revealed. The messages have leaked just weeks after the Albanese government health minister Mark Butler introduced a nationwide ban on the importation of disposable vapes on January 1. Many retailers still boldly sell and illegally import these products, making them easily accessible despite the legal restrictions. WhatsApp messages between a Chinese exporter and an Australian vape dealer, seen by Daily Mail Australia, show why many retailers are still willing to take the risk. Chinese exporters shipping millions of vapes into Australia are promising their customers they'll get their money back if the illegal smoking devices are seized by customs, explosive WhatsApp messages have revealed An Australian is seen ordering 50,000 illegal vapes from a Chinese exporter 'Do you provide insurance if customs seize the products?' the Australian dealer asked in one message. 'Even split of flavours, full insurance if customs seize the products.' The exporter responded saying they would give insurance and then asked how many vapes the customer wanted. The dealer ordered 50,000 vapes in three flavours. 'Are you in a hurry to receive this batch of goods?' the exporter said. One Chinese e-cigarette logistics company has claimed that only 0.01 per cent of their vapes were being seized by Border Force officers. The Aussie ordered 50,00 vapes including Nexbar vapes They also claimed to be exporting 30 tonnes of vapes a day at Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport, as seen in promotional material by Daily Mail Australia. 'Committed to becoming the first world-class e-cigarette international logistics compliance brand,' the company said. 'Self-operated special line, the whole process is controllable, can implement fast and efficient inspection procedures at the airport, enjoy safer, convenient and efficient air logistics services, and escort e-cigarettes without worry to sea.' The company also claimed to have an 'independent professional customs clearance team'. The text messages have been exposed just months after Daily Mail Australia revealed just how easy vapes were to buy following the government's crackdown. Along busy King Street in the Sydney suburb of Newtown at least 20 independent and chain stores are selling illegal nicotine vapes, illicit cigarettes and other devices. Buying a vape is as easy as buying a can of soft drink or a newspaper and in many cases requires no ID checks with the average vape costing about $25. Brian Marlow, Campaign Director for Legalise Vaping Australia, says that Chinese exporters don't care about the consequences and will continue smuggling illegal vapes into Australia 'It's clear these exporters don't care about the Health Minister's new rules.' He wants Australia to regulate vaping to get rid of the black market properly, make it simpler for adults to quit smoking, and prevent kids from buying vapes at convenience stores. 'Even after the January 1st rules, they are still bringing these products in. It's a complete and utter policy failure from Mark Butler and the Albanese government. 'These exporters are offering insurance. If somehow they do get caught, they'll pay the fine and a new shipment. 'We need to legalise vaping as a product for adults like New Zealand, where they don't have a rampant black market. 'The only way to stop China from profiting from Australia's failed vaping laws is to regulate the category as a consumer product,' Mr Marlow said. No ID checks were required when Daily Mail Australia purchased illegal vape products A spokesperson for the Therapeutic Goods Administration said the Australian government took non-compliance around importing vapes very seriously. 'The Australian Border Force and Therapeutic Goods Administration are working closely together to stop illegal vapes from entering the country and are taking escalated enforcement action as appropriate,' they said. 'The government's reforms to the regulation of vapes, being rolled out across 2024, are intended to make the detection of illegal vapes easier, and will be supported by a national vaping enforcement framework endorsed by the Commonwealth, states and territories.' Under a national crackdown introduced in January, the importation of disposable vapes was banned. Access to e-cigarettes for therapeutic purposes requires a prescription from a medical or nurse practitioner. Further changes due in March will outlaw the personal importation of vapes and the importation of all non-therapeutic vapes. Australia's Health Minister Mark Butler has said those selling vapes need to find a new way to make money 'Once the legislation passes the Parliament later this year the only legal way to buy vapes will be therapeutically through a pharmacy,' explained health minister Mark Butler said. But former federal police officer, Rohan Pike, said it would be extremely hard for the ABF to enforce the import ban on disposable vapes and says a black market will continue to thrive. 'While there is a demand for it, there will be a black market, as there already is now,' he told Nine. 'The unfortunate part about that is it's so unregulated. People are consuming these things and really leaving their health in the hands of organised criminals.' At the end of last month Australian Border Force officers seized 13 tonnes of disposable vapes that had made their way to Adelaide from China. ABF officers became suspicious when 14 air cargo consignments that were labelled 'refillable atomiser' - which are often used for perfumes - arrived. The total amount of vapes seized are expected to have a street value of $4.5million. China is reportedly responsible for the manufacturing of 90 per cent of the world's vapes, including the highly popular Elf Bar. While the country has banned the sale of flavoured e-cigarettes domestically, companies are still able to manufacture them and sell them around the world. Hong Kong: FS, officials make year-end visits Financial Secretary Paul Chan and five other principal officials today met grassroots families in various districts to distribute Lunar New Year gift bags, bringing to a close a three-day year-end programme of care visits. Mr Chan visited an elderly person living alone, a disabled citizen and an elderly couple in Tak Tin Estate, Lam Tin, to deliver the Governments seasonal greetings, while Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Erick Tsang called on ethnic minority families living in Mei King Street in To Kwa Wan, and Ka Wai Chuen in Hung Hom. Meanwhile, Secretary for Environment & Ecology Tse Chin-wan went to Tsui Ping (South) Estate in Kwun Tong to meet an elderly couple and elderly person living alone there. Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho was in Tai Kok Tsui to meet elderly individuals living in subdivided flats. At Shek Wai Kok Estate in Tsuen Wan, Secretary for Education Choi Yuk-lin met an ethnic minority family and elderly households. For his part, Acting Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Joseph Chan headed to Tai Hing Estate in Tuen Mun to call on elderly residents there. The series of year-end visits was co-ordinated by the Home Affairs Department. This story has been published on: 2024-02-09. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. BY JANET GRAMZA Feb. 8, 2024 U.S. News ranks UB online nursing program No. 1 in the nation U.S. News & World Report has ranked the University at Buffalo School of Nursings online bachelors degree program No. 1 nationwide. The rankings, which evaluate online academic programs offered by U.S. schools, were released Wednesday. The University at Buffalo soared from a tie at No. 25 (last year) to top this year's list for bachelor's programs, U.S. News said on its website. U.S. News ranked online bachelors programs for 339 schools, regardless of discipline, and the UB nursing program came out on top. Earning this prestigious No. 1 ranking underscores our steadfast commitment to excellence, the unwavering dedication of our faculty, the perseverance of committed students and the enduring impact of quality education in shaping the future of nursing, said Annette Wysocki, dean of UBs School of Nursing. Attaining a bachelors degree as a registered nurse holds profound benefits for both nurses and their patients and lowers the odds of hospital mortality by 25%, Wysocki said. UBs RN to BS program gives nurses the opportunity to obtain their bachelors degree entirely online while continuing to care for patients in their community, she said. UBs School of Engineering and Applied Sciences online masters in engineering program also rose in the rankings. U.S. News ranked it 19th best among 109 programs in its best online masters in engineering programs. The program was No. 29 last year and No. 49 in 2022. We are deeply honored by the national recognition of our engineering management program as one of the nations best, said SEAS Dean Kemper Lewis. The programs remarkable ascent, now into the top 20, is a testament to both the dedication and ingenuity of our exceptional faculty and staff and the commitment of our outstanding students. Among the categories U.S. News considered for the online program rankings were engagement, services and technologies, faculty credentials and training, and peer assessment. Fredonia music alumni win Grammys Two alumni of SUNY Fredonia won Grammys at the 66th annual award ceremony last Sunday. Randy Merrill, class of 1997, won a Grammy as mastering engineer for Midnights by Taylor Swift, which won Album of the Year. Charlie Post, class of 98, won with David Frost for Best Engineered Album, Classical, for Contemporary American Composers, by Riccardo Muti and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Merrill graduated from Falconer Central High School in 1992, went on to study at Jamestown Community College and graduated from Fredonia's sound recording technology program in 1997. To date, he has 26 Grammy nominations and nine wins. Post, who majored in sound recording technology and in music-applied while at SUNY Fredonia, has had three Grammy nominations and three wins, Fredonia said. Every day, Fredonia School of Music alumni make remarkable contributions to their communities, within and beyond classrooms, concert halls, and recording studios, said David Stringham, dean of Fredonias School of Music, in a statement. Whether you gravitate toward Taylor Swift or Chicago Symphony Orchestra or both I hope you'll join me in congratulating Randy Merrill and Charlie Post on the Grammy awards that their collaborations garnered. ECC City Campus atrium named for Joan Bozer SUNY Erie Community College will name the atrium of its main City Campus building, the historic former post office at 121 Ellicott St. in downtown Buffalo, for the late Joan K. Bozer, the longtime county legislator who fought to preserve it from demolition in the 1970s. After an uphill battle, the building was renovated and became home to ECCs City Campus in 1981. Bozers efforts sparked a turning point in Buffalos treatment of its historic assets, city preservation advocates said upon her death last May. In 1980, Bozer helped found the Friends of Olmsted Parks, which later became the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy. The Joan Bozer Atrium at the old post office is four and a half stories high and covers an area of 138 by 116 feet. The Venetian Palazzo-style atrium was designed to bring light to the corridors of the building and the post office sorting floor. A steel-and-glass skylight forms a dramatic canopy over a space that now houses a cafeteria, social and study areas and special events. ECC trustees said Bozers family has also endowed a scholarship in her name to support students through their education at the college. Villa Maria names Ann Rivera provost Villa Maria College has a familiar face as its new provost. Ann Rivera previously served as Villas dean of faculty, faculty chair and as an associate professor of English between 2012 and 2021. As provost, Rivera will be responsible for overseeing Villas departments of academic affairs and student affairs. Rivera, an at-large member of the Buffalo Board of Education, most recently served as academic dean, interim provost and vice president for academic affairs at Hilbert College. Welcome to Buffalo Next. This newsletter from The Buffalo News will bring you the latest coverage on the changing Buffalo Niagara economy from real estate to health care to startups. Read more at BuffaloNext.com. THE LATEST A big Wyoming County emploiyer is cutting 945 jobs. Low natural gas prices are hitting National Fuel Gas. An NLRB judge ruled that Starbucks illegally dismissed 10 Buffalo workers over union activities. An Allentown church could have a new owner, who wants to turn it into apartments Local Ford workers are getting big bonuses. Plans for a South Buffalo film studio are on hold. A wave of state grants are flowing to Western New York. A Town of Tonawanda manufacturer is cutting 40% of its jobs. Tesla's employment in Buffalo has taken a step backward. Shopping for a new Tesla soon won't require a road trip to Rochester. Apartments are coming to a vacant Niagara Street building. Evans Bank cashed in on the sale of its insurance business. A troubled Williamsville nursing home could get new owners. Why the sidewalk around the AM&A's building downtown is partially closed. ICYMI Five reads from Buffalo Next: 1. What Top Seedz's big expansion will mean for the artisan cracker maker. 2. The state's slow rollout of its legal cannabis market is moving even slower. 3. How Buffalo Niagara's startup ecosystem has changed for the better. 4. What does the future of health care look like? A new report offers a glimpse. 5. Glass half full or half empty: The divergent signs on the state of the Buffalo Niagara job market. The Buffalo Next team gives you the big picture on the regions economic revitalization. Email tips to buffalonext@buffnews.com or reach Buffalo Next Editor David Robinson at 716-849-4435. Was this email forwarded to you? Sign up to get the latest in your inbox five days a week. A new Netflix documentary is to explore the horrific story of a love triangle that turned deadly - after one woman brutally stabbed her rival to death over a man they were both dating before posing as her online for years to stalk and harass him. Lover, Stalker, Killer will premiere on the streaming giant on February 9, and will lay bare the 'grisly story of a love triangle gone wrong.' Back in 2012, Dave Kroupa, an auto repairman from Omaha, Nebraska, started dating one of his customers, named Cari Farver. While the two hit it off, Dave had just gotten out of a long-term relationship, so he made it clear from the start that he wasn't interested in anything serious - and Cari insisted that she too was only looking for some fun. But when he started talking to another woman named Shanna 'Liz' Golyar, after connecting with her on a dating site, what Dave thought would be a care-free hookup turned into a gruesome ordeal fueled by jealous rage - ultimately leading to Cari's death. So, who was Cari Farver, what happened to her and why was she murdered? Find out more below. Cari Farver was a 37-year-old single mother from Omaha, Nebraska, and was looking for a casual relationship that would fit into her busy life - but it soon led to her murder Who was Cari Farver? Cari Farver was a 37-year-old single mother from Omaha, Nebraska, and was looking for a casual relationship that would fit into her busy life. When she met the now 40-year-old Dave Kroupa, an unattached bachelor with two kids of his own, things appeared to slide into place. The couple, who initially met after a chance encounter at an auto repair shop, started dating, and continued to do so for the few weeks leading to her disappearance. Giving his account of their romance, Dave told ABC: 'When we looked at each other, there was a little spark.' He added: 'She's showing me something inside the vehicle and we're standing there, and we're very close... and there was some tension.' Dave (seen recently) spent years fearing for his life while being harassed by who he believed to be Cari, but in 2016, investigators discovered that Cari wasn't the one sending the messages What happened to Cari Farver? During the same time he had met Cari, Dave was also involved with another woman named Shanna Golyar, also known as 'Liz.' The 41-year-old, from 41-year-old woman from Persia, Iowa, had connected with Dave through an online dating site. While he was involved with both women, Cari was last seen on November 13, 2012 - by spring 2015, no one in Farver's family had seen the mother for two and a half years. It later transpired that she had met her demise at the hands of Shanna, who had flown into a murderous rage when she discovered Dave's interest in Cari. A new Netflix documentary is set to lay bare the horrific story of a love triangle that turned deadly - after one woman brutally killed her rival over a man they were both dating before posing as her online for years to stalk and harass him It was years after the harassment began that detectives uncovered it had been Shanna Golyar, who had gone to extreme and deadly lengths to destroy her perceived rival How did Cari Farver die and how was she murdered? Throughout the years that Cari had been missing, Dave became inundated and harrassed with tens and thousands of texts and emails. They eerily all appeared to be from Cari, but no one had physically seen her for a long time. The texts were rife with jealousy and rage at first, then over time, the tone changed from spiteful to threatening. One message read, 'My favorite thing to do is stand outside and stare at you,' while another read, 'I hate you so much that I want to drive a knife in your heart.' Despite changing his number and email several times, Dave's mystery tormentor would locate his new contact details and continue to send threatening messages. It was years after the harassment began that detectives uncovered it had been Shanna, who had gone to extreme and deadly lengths to destroy her perceived rival. Before Shanna was sentenced to life in prison in 2017, prosecutors during her trial said Golyar murdered Farver when she found the woman leaving the apartment of the man she was dating. The disturbing turn of events is now going to be retold in a new Netflix movie, entitled Lover Stalker Killer, which will premiere on February 9 Former detective Chris Legrow (seen), who worked on the case, told Netflix in the preview for the doc, 'This was one of the strangest, most unpredictable cases I'd ever worked' READ MORE: Inside the chilling case of a deadly digital love triangle that saw a woman brutally stab her rival to death over a man they were BOTH dating Advertisement While Farver's body was never found, prosecutors believe the murder happened at an Omaha apartment on November 13, 2012. Investigators didn't find a murder weapon either, or any witnesses. Much of the case was based on circumstantial evidence tying Golyar to Farver, including her fingerprints on a pack of gum in her love rival's car and a photo taken by Golyar allegedly showing Farver's decomposing foot. They said they also found Farver's blood in the man's apartment. In the years after the crime, prosecutors say Golyar posed as Farver online to try to throw investigators off her trail. Authorities said that Golyar has a history of impersonating women on social media with whom she shares a love interest. Chief Deputy Douglas County Attorney Brenda Beadle called it 'one of the most calculated and bizarre cases I've ever seen' in her more than 20 years working as a prosecutor. For 64-year-old John Wood, telling the world about the horrors of Bergen-Belsen and the key role his father played in rescuing survivors is an ongoing mission. Last week, he was giving yet another talk about his dad, Lieutenant-Colonel Leonard Berney, when he spotted an emotional family among the attendees. French mother-of-four Laurence Skinner, 65, who had come along with three of her children and her English husband Barry, had a very good reason to be there. Her late mother Jeannine Guillemant, who died in 2019 aged 95, was among the Jewish inmates at Belsen when the concentration camp was liberated by Lieutenant-Colonel Berney and other Allied soldiers in April 1945. The troops had encountered a living nightmare amidst the ruins of the Nazi killing machine, but Jeannine somehow survived to tell the tale. So Laurence and her family listened to John in the knowledge that his father's actions were likely the reason why their mother lived through her horrifying ordeal. John told MailOnline that his meeting with Laurence and her family was a 'very moving moment' and added: 'I feel like I have got a new family now.' Laurence said: 'It was really emotional that we could meet him with three of our four children. We were thrilled.' John Wood with Laurence Skinner and her family at Ruislip Manor Library in Middlesex. He was giving a talk about his father's heroics in the Second World War when he met the family of one of the people that his dad had a hand in saving after the liberation of Bergen-Belsen concentration camp. Above (left to right): Laurence's son-in-law Joshua, daughter Corinne, Laurence, her husband Barry, John and Laurence's other daughters Helen and Gemma Lieutenant-Colonel Leonard Berney was just 25 when he arrived at Bergen-Belsen. He was tasked with trying to repatriate around 29,000 survivors of the Holocaust Belsen - which was where the Dutch teenage diarist Anne Frank died - had originally been set up to house Soviet prisoners of war but was then turned into a concentration camp in 1943. The camp in northern Germany housed some of the Jews who had been rounded up in Poland, the Netherlands, Hungary and other areas. Many, including Jeannine, had been forced on 'death marches' to Belsen from Auschwitz-Birkenau death camp in occupied Poland. British journalist Richard Dimbleby brought the horrors of Belsen to public attention when he reported from there after its liberation. His voice choking with emotion, the war correspondent described to millions listening on their radios the piles of skeletal corpses, the stench of death and the sight of survivors, many of whom had only days or even hours of life left. Jeannine, a French Jew, was deported to Auschwitz with her mother and siblings in March 1944. Her father had been arrested at his home in occupied France shortly beforehand and was never seen again. Whilst her mother died at Auschwitz, Jeannine and two of her sisters survived the march to Belsen. They and thousands of other Jewish victims were sent there as Russian forces loomed closer from the east amidst Nazi Germany's defeat on the Second World War On the day that Lieutenant-Colonel Berney, then a major, was among the first Allied soldiers to walk through the gates of Belsen, at least 50,000 men, women and children had already been murdered at the camp. Around 60,000 others were found barely alive, many of them suffering from typhus, dysentery, and tuberculosis. Jeannine's elder sister died eight days before liberation. Jeannine Guillemant with her daughter Laurence, husband Jacques and granddaughter Corinne. Jeannine passed away in 2019 Jeannine (bottom centre) with her father Lucien and siblings Roger (top), Denise (left) and Fanny (right) and uncle Sylvain Jeannine (right) with her father Lucien, mother Suzanne and siblings Rogeer (left), Denise (front) and Fanny (back) Jeannine as a young woman and with her husband Jacques and great-grandchild Rubin Jeannine and her husband Jacques with her granddaughter Helen John Wood with Laurence Skinner after his talk at Ruislip Manor Library in Middlesex Another sister survived to see the Allied troops but passed away shortly afterwards. Describing what he saw as he entered the camp, Lieutenant-Colonel Berney later recalled: 'Long wooden huts with corpses littering the ground between them. 'In open areas at the rear of the huts, more piles of corpses. At the end of the road, we saw a large open mass grave containing hundreds of corpses. 'The sights, the stench, the sheer horror of the place was indescribable.' Lieutenant-Colonel Berney, who was then just 25 and himself from a Jewish family, became the camp's commander for more than three months. Fortunately, there was a German barracks nearby with a hospital. It was upgraded to accommodate an incredible 15,000 parients and became the focus of the efforts to save as many lives as possible. John said: 'The doctors had to decide who to put on the stretcher and who to leave to die. Each hut was an absolute hell hole. 'They rescued whoever they thought was capable of surviving and took them to the hospital.' Tragically, because the inmates had been without proper food for so long, many could not cope with the meals they were given by their rescuers and so died soon after eating. Bergen-Belsen concentration camp in Northern Germany was liberated by British and Canadian troops in April 1945. Above: A prisoner is seen after liberation, too weak to move Scenes after the liberation of Belsen in April 1945.Picture shows women and children in Belsen hospital A photo dated April 1945 of women prisoners of the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp gathering dead fellow inmates before burying them INmates are seen with British troops after Belsen's liberation in April 1945 Lieutenant-Colonel Berney's first job was to get the water supply up and running again, which he did with the help of the local fire service. Afterwards, his main task was to try to repatriate 29,000 Belsen survivors. The Daily Mail's report on Belsen on April 19, 1945 'He was really annoyed by the western countries who were not giving them visas,' John said. 'Dad was told not to let them escape to Palestine, but he purposely disobeyed the orders and helped them. 'He gave them a map and made sure they had food. That was courageous because he was risking a lot.' As soon as the last prisoner had left Belsen, the camp was burned down. Lieutenant-Colonel Berney gave evidence at the war crimes trial of Belsen's Nazi commander, Joseph Kramer, along with 43 other SS guards. Kramer and nine others were sentenced to death. Lieutenant-Colonel Berney became a military governor in the Schleswig-Holstein region of Germany before leaving the Army in 1946. The former soldier later moved to Plymouth to run what was then the largest clothing factory in Europe for the firm Berkertex. He married Patricia Purser in 1951 and the couple had three sons but later divorced. In 1960, Lieutenant-Colonel Berney became managing director of Berkertex in London and then in 1962 moved to do the same role for Rembrandt, another clothing company. After retiring, he gave regular talks on the liberation of Belsen and featured in documentaries about the Holocaust. His memoir, 'Liberating Belsen Concentration Camp', was published in April 2015, around a year before he died aged 95. The soldier turned businessman spent his final years living on a cruise ship. Since his father's death, John has focused on telling his father's story with the help of the Holocaust charity Generation 2 Generation, which aims to keep the testimony of survivors alive even after their deaths. Women and children are seen crowded together at Belsen in an image taken after the camp's liberation Female SS staff members are seen grouped together after being rounded up by British troops A British sign erected after Belsen's liberation displays the horrors committed by the Nazis Inmates are Belsen are seen at the camp after its liberation by British troops in April 1945 In mates are seen at Belsen after its liberation by British forces. That scenes that greeted troops were shocking Last week, he came across Laurence and her family while giving a talk at Ruislip Manor library in Middlesex. Bergen-Belsen: The concentration camp liberated by the British The Bergen-Belsen concentration camp was located in northern Germany, south-west of the town of Bergen itself. From 1941 to 1945 almost 50,000 people were killed there along with 20,000 Soviet inmates. It was run by the cruel and tyrannical SS commandant Joseph Kramer - known as the Beast of Belsen. Among the inmates was Dutch teenage diarist Anne Frank, who died in the camp. It was liberated on April 15, 1945 by the British 11th Armoured Division and soldiers discovered roughly 60,000 starved, and ill prisoners inside. Some 13,000 unburied corpses littered the ground around the camp when they arrived. When the Allies arrived at Bergen-Belsen, it was in the grip of a terrible typhus outbreak, with prisoners dying at a rate of 500 a day. A sombre sign erected by the British Army, and photographed by Mr Parsons, documents at least part of that grisly death tool, revealing that 13,000 people perished even after troops came to their aid. Shortly after the camp was liberated by British and Canadian troops in 1945, it was torched, and at least part of that suffering was destroyed forever as the buildings, along with the Reichskriegs flag and Hitler portrait which adorned them, were consumed by flames. Advertisement He said: 'I've done the talk hundreds of times. It is still emotional for me. You feel the atmosphere in the room. 'This time I saw a lady and a younger lady holding hands. I could see that the older one was crying. I thought "Oh God", that makes it even more difficult.' However, meeting the Skinner family was a life-changing experience and they all plan to remain firm friends. John added: 'I was overjoyed to give them this extra information about what Jeannine went through. 'They probably didn't have this kind of detail about what it was like for her to be rescued.' Laurence and Barry, who are both retired and currently live in Malta, were sat on the front row with their daughters Gemma, Corinne and Helen and son-in-law Josh. On a visit to the UK to see their grown-up children, they had come along to John's talk after one of their daughters saw it advertised. The family wanted to hear about the actions of the man who helped save Jeannine and thousands of others. After the war, Jeannine met her future husband Jacques at a sanitorium back in France. Although he was not Jewish, Jacques was put into a forced labour camp in Germany and ended up in a 'bad state', Laurence said. His and Jeannine's shared trauma helped them bond. 'They were an amazing couple, always in love right to the end. 'There was never any negativity in my childhood. They just wanted their children to have a happy life and good values and taught us to never make a difference between people but just to respect them.' Jeannine was 'thrilled' when Laurence met the English boyfriend who would become her husband. 'It makes me smile always that the British had a special place in her heart,' she said. 'When she had Alzheimer's and didn't recognise me, she remembered English. 'She used to sing Twinkle Twinkle Little Star and would look at news about the Queen with interest right to the end.' She added: 'It could have been Leonard who held her and helped her up and talked to her. She never forgot that. Lieutenant-Colonel Berney with other officers during his time in the British Army Lieutenant-Colonel Berney's military identity card Lieutenant-Colonel Berney's memoir, 'Liberating Belsen Concentration Camp', was published in April 2015, around a year before he died aged 95 John with his father. After retiring, he gave regular talks on the liberation of Belsen and featured in documentaries about the Holocaust 'She always loved the English and the Royal Family. It was so special.' Laurence and Barry have plans next year to move back to the UK, a fitting tribute to their Anglophile mother. 'I was living in England when I met Barry and have loved it ever since. 'From our marriage in 1980 we were there for 32 years. Then we went to France to be near my parents. Now are we coming back.' She added: 'I would like this opportunity to pass on a message of hope for mankind like my mum did, so that people don't just hear another story, but realise that we can all suffer for being different, one way or another.' Two weeks ago, ex-childrens nurse Christine Weatherhead made her annual pilgrimage to a tree set amid the pretty grounds of a Leeds cemetery. In a ritual she has performed every year for more than three decades, she placed flowers by a commemorative plaque, tidied the overgrown foliage and swore again that she would continue to fight for her much-loved elder sister Patricia Hall. This is the nearest thing to a grave Christine has for mother-of-two Pat. There has been no funeral, no inquest, nor even an official account of her sisters death. Indeed, Pat who vanished without a trace in the early hours from her home near Leeds at the age of 39 is still classed as missing. But this is no ordinary missing persons tale. Three decades ago, Pats husband of ten years, Keith, made an extraordinary murder confession to an undercover policewoman, admitting hed strangled her but it wasnt easy. He then told the officer he had dumped Pats body in an industrial incinerator. Christine Weatherhead is still battling for answers over the disappearance of her elder sister Patricia Hall He was arrested and in 1994 put on trial at Leeds Crown Court. But in a devastating twist, the judge ruled the confession inadmissible, saying it broke police interviewing guidelines. Extracted as a result of an undercover sting and secretly taped Halls words were never heard by the jury and, after a nine-day trial, he was cleared of Pats murder and manslaughter. In an equally unusual move, the judge agreed to the medias request to publish transcripts of the confession after a group of editors appealed for reporting restrictions to be lifted. Hall, now 68, remains an innocent man. For Christine, 62, the case has cast a long shadow over more than half her life. Still fighting, still determined to get answers, she says she will not rest until the family receives an official declaration that Pat was unlawfully killed. Since the trial, she has repeatedly applied to the West Yorkshire Coroner and Home Office for an inquest so that at least her sisters case can be reviewed but has been told it would be prejudicial against Keith Hall. But what about Pat? she asks now. It is like she is worthless, doesnt count as a person. How can that be right for any woman? Pat is not simply a head and shoulders picture stapled to a police file gathering dust on their shelves as every year passes. She was vibrant, bubbly just listening to her chatter on would bring a smile to my face. We had so much to look forward to, raising our sons together. We have all missed out on that. Her disappearance has affected so many people, mentally and emotionally. Pat on her wedding day with husband Keith Hall, who three decades ago confessed to an undercover policewoman that he had strangled her but it wasnt easy As cold cases go, there is a remarkably clear account of the events leading up to Pats disappearance on January 27, 1992. Just 48 hours before, she spent the day at Christines picturesque 220-acre North Yorkshire farm, laughing, joking and talking optimistically about her future. Having overcome postnatal depression after having her sons Andrew, then nine, and Graeme, five which led to a spell in hospital Pat was making plans to leave Keith and move to Scotland. Pat had decided to divorce Keith and make a fresh start with her sons, Christine claims. She was happy and I just thank God that is my final memory of her. Hall agrees that Pat wanted a divorce. In a remarkably frank interview in a 2022 Amazon Prime documentary called The Confession, he says Pat told him she wanted a divorce the night before she disappeared and admits he feared losing half their home, his sons and his grocery business. The sisters were due to meet the next day Tuesday, January 28 but Christine rang Pats semi-detached home in Moorland Drive, Pudsey, that morning to cancel. Her young son Stuart, then six, was ill and she couldnt leave him. I left a message but Pat, unusually, never called me back, she remembers. Keith rang me that evening and told me she had left their home the day before and he did not know where she was. I asked if hed reported her missing to the police but he hadnt. I knew Pat would never leave her boys with him, so my brothers and I were suspicious from the start. Our cousin, who was a police officer, reported her missing the next day. At Halls trial, the couples neighbour Christopher Bennett said he heard them having a row with shouting, doors banging around the house and Pat sounding distressed late that Sunday night. A short time later, the familys car sped off from the house. Hall has always maintained that Pat, who worked as an Avon lady, left of her own accord. When approached by the Mail, he also claims to have reported his wife missing to the police. Christine, 62, says she will not rest until the family receives an official declaration that Pat was unlawfully killed Pat and Christine pictured in 1985. Pat disappeared on January 27, 1992. Just 48 hours before, she spent the day at Christines farm Retired Detective Inspector Jim Bancroft told the documentary: We suspected that what might have brought this row to an abrupt end is that Keith Hall had killed his wife. As detectives launched a search for Pat, the family car a blue Ford Sierra was found abandoned a mile from her home. A witness also told officers that he saw an unidentified man lifting something into or out of the car on the same road, climb over a fence into a field and walk towards nearby lakes on the night Pat disappeared. Police were convinced that man was Hall. Their suspicions mounted when Christine and Pats sister-in-law Jeanette Fox told officers he had allegedly tried to strangle Pat in October 1991 three months before she vanished. Now Jeanette, 61, is speaking out. In her first newspaper interview, she recalls an unsettling meeting with Hall, saying: I was at Pats mum Edith Foxs house and went upstairs to the toilet. When I came out, I jumped as Keith was stood in the doorway with his arms across the door. I asked to pass him. Say please, he muttered. I ran downstairs as quickly as I could. I told Ian, Pats brother and my then future husband and he said: He is odd. Jeanette says she also witnessed Halls temper first hand. It was Christmas 1983 and we were at Pat and Keiths for lunch, she remembers. Pat was serving lunch in the kitchen and there was a sudden commotion. Edith said, Oh, hes off on one again. Hed wanted Yorkshire puddings served as a starter but Pat served them up with the meal. The plates of food were brought in and Keith simply picked his up and threw it against the wall before storming out for hours. I was stunned. And while Jeanette didnt witness any other alleged incidents, she says: Pat phoned me throughout 1991, often upset about Keiths temper and moods. In October she rang, sobbing, Hes gone too far. He was strangling me and he wasnt going to stop. His eyes were terrible. His eyes were awful. Hall agrees that Pat wanted a divorce. In a 2022 Amazon Prime documentary called The Confession, he says Pat told him she wanted a divorce the night before she disappeared Pat told me they were stood at the top of the stairs and she feigned fainting for him to stop. I told the police all this but because it was classed as hearsay, the prosecution could not use it in the trial. Throughout the Amazon documentary, Hall remains defiant in his innocence, denying the strangulation incident ever happened, telling police: There was only one person that was making up the story and that was Patricia, Im afraid. He also denies throwing a plate against a wall at the Christmas lunch. But Christine recalls a heartbreaking chat she had with her sister earlier that month. She said, If anything happens to me, will you look after the boys? I said of course I would and thought she meant anything happening due to her depression. Six months after Pats disappearance, with the trail seemingly cold, Hall began to answer lonely hearts ads in local newspapers. Christines stomach turned when she heard about it. It is a very short time to start dating again, especially when you have two young children whod be missing their mum, she says. Unless Keith knew she was not coming back. Alerted to his hunt for a new girlfriend and suspicious of his involvement in Pats disappearance, the police hatched a honeypot plan and put up an undercover policewoman codenamed Liz as a romantic correspondent. The ploy worked better than anyone could have imagined and after six dates over several months, Hall began talking about getting engaged to Liz, even though he was still married to Pat. Pat pictured with her mother. Christine claims that her sister was making plans to leave Keith and move to Scotland Now was the time to strike. Detective Inspector Bancroft was concerned at the pace of the relationship and decided to call a halt to the liaison but only after one final meeting. Sitting in her car wired with a recording device on a freezing February night in 1993, undercover police officer Liz told Hall she was worried Pat would turn up in his life again. As they kissed, he confessed to killing her and burning her body. When she asked why he burnt her body, he calmly replied: I didnt. I dumped it in an incinerator. Within days, Hall was charged with the murder. Officers said his face visibly drained of blood when they played the tape to him in an interview room at Pudsey Police Station. And yet, as we know, the jury never heard it. In The Confession, Hall said he thinks about Pat every day. He says he only admitted to her killing because he was infatuated with Liz and wanted to date again. Six months is a long time really, he said. And I thought she [Pat] wont come back to me, and thats when I did start dating. I wanted the company of a female. Thats what I were missing. In previous interviews, the retired bread delivery man who still lives in the Pudsey marital home explained why he thinks the judge ruled the secret confession tape inadmissible. On the fateful night my opening words were, Did I murder my wife? I did not murder my wife. She [Liz] wanted to know if Pat would be coming back and I gave her three different stories as to why she wouldnt be. Hall claimed Liz wasnt happy with any of the stories he had spun, including that Pat had gone to Scotland to stay with family. A commemorative plaque to Pat is the nearest thing to a grave Christine has for her sister. There has been no funeral, no inquest, nor even an official account of Pats death He said: She still wasnt happy so I said, Shall I try again? Thats when I gave her the last version. I just made it up from things I knew about the police investigation. I talked about strangling because the police had talked about it to me [during an earlier interview] and I mentioned burning the body because I knew the police had been checking incinerators. I just said it because she kept going on. Just before his arrest, Christine and brother Ian went one evening to confront him. I looked him in the face I needed to look in his eyes as he answered it and simply said, Did you strangle Pat? Keith just glared at me and said, Thats your opinion, isnt it? I felt sickened by him and walked away. He later penned her a vitriolic six-page letter, banning her from seeing her nephews, Andrew, who is now 41, and Graeme, 37. Contact with them has remained sporadic ever since. When approached by the Mail, Hall said he did stop Christine from seeing his sons but denies writing her the letter, which this newspaper has seen, adding: Please ask yourself why now, 30 years later, is such rubbish being told? Does it actually have any bearing on anything? Over the years, there have been some glimmers of hope for Christine, herself a mother to Stuart, 38, and Tim, 32 but her relentless fight for her sister has suffered repeated setbacks. Above all, what Christine wants is an inquest and an official declaration of unlawful killing. A witness told officers he saw an unidentified man lifting something into or out of a car, climb over a fence into a field and walk towards nearby lakes on the night Pat, pictured, disappeared Since Pat is still not officially dead, there can be no memorial service nor headstone only the tree and the plaque. In April 1994, West Yorkshires then Chief Coroner David Hinchliff wrote to the Home Office asking for an inquest. After listening to the tapes and speaking to case detectives, his letter said: I am definitely of the opinion that Patricia Anne Hall was murdered by her husband at a location within my jurisdiction and that her body has been deliberately destroyed by burning and cannot be recovered. A year later, the case was debated in Parliament by Pats then MP Sir Giles Shaw but his request for an inquest was rejected by Home Secretary Michael Howard, who said it was not in the public interest. Christine, who is married to farmer Robert, 69, appealed his decision in the High Court but lost. In March 1995, she successfully applied to the Court of Appeal to hold a judicial review into the refusal but, in December, it upheld Howards decision. Then, in 2001, Hall was jailed for four years for attacking former neighbour Christopher Bennett with a brick the man who reported the row to police on the night of Pats disappearance leaving him needing 14 stitches to the head. Christine welcomed his conviction, saying it was a small comfort to see him jailed but it failed to help move forward Pats case and, of course, attacking someone with a brick does not make them capable of murder. Prior to Mr Hinchliffs retirement, he made a final appeal to Englands then Chief Coroner Mark Lucraft in 2017 to hold an inquest. Again, it was denied. The constant defeats have left Christine fearful she will never see the investigation reopened. As we progressed through the trial, then the High Court, and realised we were not going to achieve anything and I could not afford to take it any further, I felt bitter about the legal system, she says. Ive become a bit harder but probably thats my way of coping. It has undoubtedly changed me. I feel let down, I cant deny that. I dont understand how a good, law-abiding woman can disappear and the judicial system continue to dismiss her. Jeanette adds that Pats disappearance has changed Christine and her husband, saying: They were happy people and now it seems their souls are enveloped in sadness. Despite the case running cold for more than three decades, Hall maintains that he did not kill Pat and even appealed for her to get in touch in the Amazon Prime documentary. He said: Were all players in a game of life. Its how we play the hand were dealt thats important. In a statement, Assistant Chief Constable Pat Twiggs, West Yorkshire Police Forces lead for Specialist Crime And Criminal Justice, said the force is committed to doing everything we can to support them [Pats family]. The investigation remains open and, regardless of the passage of time, we would still welcome any new information that could assist in getting her family the answers they need. I wont give up my fight for her, says Christine, as once again she clears the foliage around the tree. I owe it to her. I want to give her dignity closure to her life. I want to hold a memorial service. Its the last thing I can do for her. Pat would like the idea of a pilgrimage to a tree in her name, says Christine. It is a living thing and she was such a lively person. But it is not the same as an official record, set out in black and white, to tell the world what happened to her. After more than 11,000 grief-filled days, our family deserves answers. Donald Trump cemented his dominance in Nevada with a commanding victory in Thursday night's caucuses following a symbolic win in Tuesday's primary. The race was called for Trump with less than 1 percent of the vote reported at 8:05 p.m. PST just 35 minutes after caucus sites closed. Trump was ahead with over 97 percent of the vote. 'If we win this state, we easily win the election this November,' Trump told enthusiastic MAGA-aligned Republicans gathered at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino to celebrate his victory. The former president was delighted as he made his way to Las Vegas on Thursday afternoon on the heels of Supreme Court oral arguments where both conservative and liberal justices expressed skepticism over state efforts to keep the ex-president off the 2024 ballot. He spent the entire day ahead of Nevada's caucuses reacting to those oral arguments, as well as a blockbuster Justice Department report essentially deeming President Joe Biden too feeble to charge with a crime in the classified documents case. Donald Trump posted an image from his private plane when taking off for Nevada's caucuses on Thursday after holding a press conference in Mar-a-Lago on the damming DOJ report on President Joe Biden's diminishing memory Nevada voters line-up at a middle school in Las Vegas, Nevada to caucus on Thursday Trump went straight to Treasure Island for his caucus night party after landing in Las Vegas where he was joined by surrogates, allies and caucus captains. Meanwhile, his remaining competitor, former U.N. Amb. Nikki Haley, was not on the caucus ballot. She refused to spend the $55,000 required to participate in the caucus and repeatedly claimed the primary contest was 'rigged' by MAGA-aligned Nevada Republicans to hand him the victory and the delegates. Trump congratulated no one after Haley came in second place in Tuesday's primary losing out to the option 'none of these candidates.' 'You know what happened last night? None of the above,' Trump said, mixing up the day of the primary, which was on Tuesday night and not Wednesday. 'I would like to congratulate none of the above,' he quipped to audience laughter. 'I was one of those none of the aboves and they won by 44 points.' Longshot Republican 2024 hopeful and Texas-based businessman and pastor Ryan Binkley was a caucus competitor with Trump. He only held 9 votes at the time the race was called. As Trump prepared to deliver victory remarks, his surrogates and Nevada-based allies descended on a ballroom in Treasure Island. The DOJ revealed in the Thursday report it would not be pursuing charges against Biden because he would likely present himself to a jury 'as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory'. This renewed calls from Haley demanding the president take a mental competency test to prove he is fit to continue serving as chief executive. Trump spoke for only about 15 minutes for an intimate invite-only crowd at Treasure Island Resort & Casino DOJ noted in its report that Biden forgot on different occasions throughout the interview the years when he began and ended his vice presidential terms and didn't remember what year his son Beau died. 'Biden took the Documents in his 'mental primetime.' He shouldn't be allowed to get away with this, and he wasn't protected by the Presidential Records Act,' Trump lamented in a Truth Social pot on Thursday. 'I was cooperative with the Investigators. Crooked Joe Biden didn't - Just the opposite, following the usual, corrupt Democrat Playbook. He 'willfully retained' documents. This is Scam Justice.' Several hours before Nevada's yielded its results, Trump also clinched a victory in the third primary contest of the cycle in the U.S. Virginia Islands caucuses. He earned 73.9 percent of the vote to Haley's 26 percent and is expected to take all delegates available from the islands. 'Great news!' Trump wrote on Truth Social on Thursday. 'As we are landing in Nevada, getting ready to go to Caucus, word just came that we overwhelmingly won the Virgin Islands Caucus, ALL Delegates, with almost 75% of the Vote.' 'This has been a very Big Day for your Favorite President, the Republican Party, and Democracy!' he noted, likely reference not only his win, but the DOJ report and SCOTUS arguments. Vegas-based Trump Senior Advisor Kash Patel told DailyMail.com on Wednesday that winning Nevada is the 'key to the west,' as he drew parallels between the demographics and priorities of voters in the Silver State and in Arizona a must-win in 2024. Nevada went blue in 2016 and 2020, but Arizona was a red state that flipped blue in 2020, and that Trump and Biden see as a priority to clinch the White House in 2024. Nevada voters wait in line to enter a caucus site at Spanish Springs Elementary School in Sparks, Nevada on Thursday, February 8 after the primary election on Tuesday where Nikki Haley lost to 'none of these candidates' Lined up at the South Reno Caucus to vote for President Trump. There is snow on the ground, it is a cold night, and people walked for miles to wait in line for an hour or more. Trump is the only person they can vote for, but they want to make their voices heard. Great sign! pic.twitter.com/yFGQgp6LB6 Adam Paul Laxalt (@AdamLaxalt) February 9, 2024 Trump held his caucus night party at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino seen peaking out as the former president's famous golden Trump Tower Hotel looms over the Las Vegas Strip While Tuesday's primary election was only symbolic after the Nevada GOP decided all the delegates would be awarded in the caucuses on Thursday, Trump still was the biggest winner that night. Former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley came in second place in the primary behind the option 'none of these candidates,' which offered voters a chance to cast their ballot for no one an effort led by Trump Senior Advisor Kash Patel. The stunning defeat of Haley proves that Trump supporters are so enthusiastic and mobilized that they were willing to show up twice to symbolically and then actually cast their ballots for the former president. 'Lined up at the South Reno Caucus to vote for President Trump,' Former Nevada Attorney General Adam Laxalt wrote in a post to X, formerly Twitter, along with a video of a massive line of people waiting to get into the caucus site. 'There is snow on the ground, it is a cold night, and people walked for miles to wait in line for an hour or more,' he noted. 'Trump is the only person they can vote for, but they want to make their voices heard. Great sign!' Trump only participated in the caucuses after the GOP said any candidates who signed up for the primary were barred from the contest two days later. How can an exchange in the House of Commons, broadcast live on TV and radio, be so egregiously misinterpreted? Anyone scrolling through social media over the past 48 hours would be led to believe that at Wednesdays Prime Ministers Questions, Rishi Sunak made a transphobic joke at the expense of murdered schoolchild Brianna Ghey. Now, I am no fan of Sunak. In fact, I am a lifelong Labour supporter. But I feel compelled to speak out over what amounts to a dangerous distortion of the facts. For in no way did the Prime Minister make a transphobic joke. In reality, it was his political opponent, Sir Keir Starmer, who falsely accused him of doing so while also weaponising the tragic case of Brianna Ghey to score political points. So, how and why were the events of Wednesdays PMQs so shockingly misconstrued both on social media and by large swathes of the British media? To answer this, we need to go back to the event itself. In April last year, Sir Keir Starmer claimed that 99.9 per cent of women havent got a penis only to later change his mind and describe a woman as an adult female Shortly after midday on Wednesday, as every week, the Prime Minister faced 15 questions from members of the house. Six of those questions are allotted to the Leader of the Opposition. In response to one of Starmers questions, Sunak took the opportunity to lambast the Labour leaders well-chronicled history of policy U-turns. Pensions, planning, peerages, public sector pay, began Sunak, before landing his humdinger of a line: Defining a woman but that was only 99 per cent of a U-turn! The Prime Minister was, of course, ridiculing Starmer for his failure to define what a woman is. In April last year, the Labour leader made the ridiculous claim that 99.9 per cent of women havent got a penis implying that one in a thousand women do only to later change his mind and describe a woman as an adult female. There was nothing transphobic about Sunaks jibe. In fact, it was a legitimate attack against a man who continually fails to distinguish between biological sex and gender identity. What was appalling was Starmers response: Of all the weeks to say that, he began, when Briannas mother is in this chamber. Shame. Starmer was suggesting Sunaks jibe was both transphobic and in poor taste because Briannas mother was watching from the gallery. Her 16-year-old was murdered last year by two peers, then aged 15, one of whom was said to have been motivated by transphobia. But there are two problems with Starmers response. Firstly, Briannas mother Esther Ghey was not yet in the gallery; she only entered after the remarks. Secondly, and more importantly, it was Starmer who brought up Brianna, and he alone who tried to score political points. In no way did Sunaks 99 per cent remark relate to Brianna. And yet, unable to defend himself, the Labour leader used the teenagers murder as a political shield. To my mind, this marks a new low for a man who prides himself on his personal and political integrity. JULIE BINDEL: There was nothing transphobic about Sunaks jibe. It was a legitimate attack against a man who continually fails to distinguish between biological sex and gender identity The Labour leader met with Brianna's mother Esther Ghey in the House of Commons on Wednesday Kemi Badenoch, the Business and Trade Secretary, rightly tried to set the record straight by accusing Starmer of weaponising the case. Every murder is a tragedy. None should be trivialised by political point scoring, wrote Ms Badenoch on X. As a mother, I can imagine the trauma that Esther Ghey has endured. It was shameful of Starmer to link his own inability to be clear on the matter of sex and gender directly to her grief. Badenoch is absolutely right. And yet, in an appalling twist, it is Sunak who has been painted as the villain. Labour MPs, who broke into a chorus of shame in the Commons, immediately set the agenda on X. With her characteristic eloquence, Birmingham Yardley MP Jess Phillips said of Sunak: How dare he be so gross in the face of the family of a murdered child. He is the lowest of the low. Yesterday, the front page of Labour-loving paper The Mirror depicted Sunak next to the headline: Shame on you. Meanwhile, the Independents front page described the PMs callous trans jibe. The BBC fanned the flames by replaying the incident on the Radio 4 PM programme, with presenter Evan Davis suggesting Sunak had made trans people the punchline of a joke [] metres from the mother of a murdered trans person. He failed, however, to suggest Starmer might have done anything wrong. In other words, from the moment Starmer falsely accused Sunak of being transphobic, the Labour Party machine, the Left-wing Press and the all-powerful trans lobby confected a scandal and painted the Prime Minister as an insensitive transphobe an accusation for which there is simply no basis of truth. Even Tory MPs, fearful of becoming targets themselves, spoke out against Sunak. Dehenna Davison said it was disappointing to hear jokes being made at the trans communitys expense, while Jamie Wallis described Sunaks words as a display of insensitivity. Even the Leader of the House, Penny Mordaunt, expressed her hope that the Prime Minister had reflected on his words. But should we really be surprised that even Tory MPs are siding with trans activists, a group notorious for launching vicious, career-ending attacks? I would know, because Ive been the victim of so many. Brianna Ghey, 16, was killed with a hunting knife in Linear Park, Culcheth, on February 11 last year Esther Ghey, left, has had to grieve in the public spotlight, with millions of people following and fascinated by the trial of Brianna's teenage killers, Scarlett Jenkinson and Eddie Ratcliffe Making my way into a conference centre recently, to give a speech about male violence towards women and girls and how to challenge it, I had to walk past so-called trans activists holding banners proclaiming: Suck my d*** you transphobic c***. And dont forget, the trans women holding such banners have been through male puberty and are therefore bigger and stronger than I am. It was intimidating to say the very least. No one is saying trans people have it easy. And it must be incredibly difficult to be a young person experiencing gender dysphoria. But this is no excuse for shutting down legitimate debate. In twisting the facts, and launching an attack on Sunak, the trans lobby is attempting to discredit the view that sex is a biological reality. Briannas father, Peter Spooner, has since told Sky News: I personally feel shocked by his comments and feel he should apologise for his remarks. You could be forgiven for assuming he was speaking about Starmer, but in fact, it is the Prime Minister from whom Mr Spooner would like an apology. I have every sympathy for Briannas parents. Losing a child especially in such horrific circumstances must be an incomprehensible trauma. Whats more, Mr Spooner and Esther Ghey have had to grieve in the public spotlight, with millions of people following and fascinated by the trial of her teenage killers, Scarlett Jenkinson and Eddie Ratcliffe. However, the Prime Minister has nothing to apologise for. In fact, it should be Starmer saying sorry. He is the man who turned Brianna Ghey into a political pawn. Whichever way the Left tries to spin it, Starmer should be deeply ashamed of himself. Yesterday, Sunak stood by his remarks, calling his line of questioning absolutely legitimate. The Prime Minister continued: Ive nothing but the most heartfelt sympathy for [Brianna Gheys] entire family and friends. But to use that tragedy to detract from the very separate and clear point I was making about Keir Starmers proven track record of multiple U-turns on major policies, because he doesnt have a plan, I think is both sad and wrong, and it demonstrates the worst of politics. As a consequence of the furore, Starmers latest U-turn yesterday on Labours 28 billion green pledge was conveniently overlooked. And, as the political circus rolls on, so will this distasteful incident. But this is a clear example of how easily facts can be distorted. In the case of this weeks PMQs, the truth was buried under a social media frenzy, one viciously concocted by the Labour Party and the trans lobby to which it is in thrall. A New South Wales MP is seeking to overturn a ban on climbing a popular mountain, saying that claims it is a sacred site are the 'hocus pocus' inventions of 'left-wing extremists' to create racial division. Mount Warning (known as Wollumbin by Indigenous people) near Murwillumbah in the Northern Rivers region of NSW, once welcomed more than 120,000 visitors every year, but it has been off limits since 2020 despite an argument between Indigenous elders about its cultural significance. NSW Upper House Libertarian Party MP John Ruddick has launched a petition to reopen the mountain to the public and requires 10,000 signatures to trigger a parliamentary debate on the issue. Mount Warning, near Murwillumbah in the Northern Rivers region of NSW, has been off limits to the general public since 2020 READ MORE: Protesters stage climb of Mt Warning Wollumbin A group of protesters (pictured) climbed Mount Warning on Australia Day, defying a ban imposed out of respect to Aboriginal custodians Advertisement Mr Ruddick claims there is a lack of evidence the mountain has any religious significance to the local Indigenous people. 'I dont believe it is the Aboriginal version of Jerusalem or Mecca or St Peters,' he told Daily Mail Australia on Friday. 'If it was sacred, of course we respect those holy sites and we dont want to upset people if they have genuine belief in a spiritual thing.' However, Mr Ruddick said he suspected the claims came from other sources. 'I am convinced these claims are recent inventions of white left-wing extremists who are exploiting Aborigines and I dont believe there is any documentary evidence for them,' Mr Ruddick said. 'There are left-wing academics exploiting some Aborigines by encouraging them to make hocus pocus claims that inevitably make the white people cranky and fuel the racial division that is the goal of the left. 'They dont care about the negative impacts that will have on the Aboriginal people. 'This is just a tool left-wing white academics use to make Australians feel bad about themselves. 'That's why we have to push back now, because it started with Uluru and now there is this and there will just be more and more and its not helping the Aboriginal people, it is actually making things worse.' NSW MP John Ruddick claims there is a lack of evidence that Mt Warning was an Indigenous sacred site In March 2020 the Wollumbin Consultative Group petitioned the then-Liberal state government to forbid access to Mount Warning to non-Aboriginal Australians, citing cultural and spiritual significance specific to Bundjalung men. Other local Aboriginal groups such as the Ngarakbal Githabul and Yoocum Yoocum disputed the cultural legitimacy of the Bundjalung over the site. 'Aborigines are not a monolith, there is always conflict among the local Aborigines,' Mr Ruddick said. 'It means the white academics have got in the ears of some them and the others say this is BS and we are going to publicly call it out as BS. 'It happens every single time and that shows you how much credibility there is that it is a sacred site. Three hikers are pictured on top of Mt Warning, which has been shut since the pandemic period 'Up until this century theres not one document from the 19th century or the 20 century of Aborigines saying this is a sacred mountain you are not allowed to climb here.' Marc Hendrickx, who authored A Guide to Climbing Mt Warning, is co-sponsoring the petition to reopen Mt Warning and told Sydney radio station 2GB on Friday morning that the ban was 'unbelievable'. 'We want to put the pressure on (NSW Minister of Environment) Penny Sharpe to inject some common sense into this and reopen this mountain right now,' he told interviewer Ben Fordham. 'This was a climb visited by families, scout groups, nature lovers. Over 100,000 [people] climb the mountain each year. 'It is a complete farce they have closed the mountain over this Covid period and it looks like it will never be opened again unless we raise our voices. 'This is a chance to say no to division in our national parks.' A spokesperson for Ms Sharpe said the minister 'has met with and will continue to meet with a range of stakeholders to work through the issues with Wollumbin'. Mr Hendrickx is one of the founders for the Re-Open Mt Warning group, which has 4,700 members on Facebook. It was previously revealed that from April to October last year, private security guards were hired to keep people off Mt Warning at a cost of about $7,000 per week. Overall, nearly $200,000 was spent securing the mountain and security is still brought in on occasions such as New Year's Eve and Australia Day. In the early hours of Australia Day last month, protesters led by Mr Hendrickx and Ngarakbal elder Sturt Boyd climbed to the Mt Warning peak to shoot a video, in what has become an annual tradition of defiance. In 2022, the NSW Department of National Parks recommended fully handing over management of the site on the Tweed Coast to the small Wollumbin Consultative Group, who support a ban on visitors to the popular hiking spot. The Wollumbin Consultative Group says the national park holds physical and spiritual importance to the community, particularly for the Bundjalung nation. Wollumbin is of the highest significance to the Aboriginal nations, particularly the Bundjalung nation in northern NSW, as a sacred ceremonial and cultural complex that is linked to traditional law and custom,' the group told local publication the Echo in October, 2022. 'Wollumbin is interconnected to a broader cultural and spiritual landscape that includes Creation, Dreaming stories and mens initiation rites, of deep antiquity. Bundjalung beliefs illustrate the spiritual values embodied and evoked in Wollumbin and its connections to a broader cultural landscape. 'These connections are important to the spiritual identity of the Bundjalung nation, many other nations and families connected to Wollumbin, predominantly men and also women.' Attempts to contact the Wollumbin Consultative Group to put Mr Ruddick's claims to them have been unsuccessful. A former senior TikTok executive says she was fired after reporting sexual harassment and discrimination including the parent company's chairman saying women 'should remain quiet,' according to a bombshell lawsuit. Katie Puris filed a complaint in Manhattan federal court on Thursday where she alleged she was forced out of her job in September 2022, just three months after she reported sexual harassment at an industry dinner event. She joined TikTok in December 2019 as managing director and US head of business marketing but claimed there were a series of incidents where she reported bias and sexual harassment to supervisors and human resources. Puris claims she was subjected to derogatory comments about her age and that ByteDance chairman Zhang Lidong believed women should be 'humble at all times' and preferred 'docility and meekness' in female employees. DailyMail.com has contacted TikTok and ByteDance for comment on the lawsuit brought against them. Former senior TikTok executive Katie Puris is suing the social media company and its China-based parent ByteDance over claims she was fired unlawfully after she complained about sex, age and disability discrimination Puris claims she was subjected to derogatory comments about her age and that ByteDance chairman Zhang Lidong (pictured) believed women 'should remain quiet and humble at all times' and preferred 'docility and meekness' in female employees Puris joined TikTok in December 2019 as managing director and US head of business marketing but claimed there were a series of incidents where she reported bias and sexual harassment to supervisors and human resources Puris was invited to ByteDance chairman Lidong's bi-weekly meetings in 2020, according to the legal filing. She claims she was given a five to 10-minute timeslot to share updates from her business marketing team. 'It became clear immediately that Lidong Zhang was displeased with the way Ms. Puris led her presentations,' the lawsuit states. 'Because she celebrated her teams successes and achievements, which he felt was inappropriate because he believes that women should always remain humble and express modesty. Essentially, Lidong Zhang believes women should be quiet.' Puris claimed she asked to control her document during one meeting but that 'Lidong Zhang found offensive because he believed women did not have the right to even ask for such things'. 'Again, Lidong Zhangs stereotypical view of women, even in leadership roles, was that they should remain quiet and humble at all times,' the lawsuit stated. The former TikTok executive alleged she was not allowed to present or speak in the meeting again. 'Ms. Puris never heard Lidong Zhang criticize male leaders for not being humble enough,' the suit added. 'Yet, he criticized Ms. Puris to executives, causing the erasure of all the deliverables and attributes she brought to the Company.' She alleged she was sexually harassed at a dinner in June 2022 after she attended a creative industry event in France. Puris met Christian Lee, the managing director of advertising agency Zenith Worldwide, at a dinner. 'During dinner, Lee became increasingly intoxicated and moved to sit next to Ms. Puris in such a way that he blocked her from moving away from him,' the lawsuit claims. 'Lee was slurring his speech, spilled an entire glass of wine on Ms. Puris plate, and began repeatedly touching Ms. Puris arm, asking her where to party after the dinner and where they could go dancing.' Puris filed a complaint in Manhattan federal court on Thursday where she alleged she was forced out of her TikTok job in September 2022, just three months after she reported sexual harassment at an industry dinner event It alleged Puris was 'incredibly uncomfortable with Lees behavior toward her.' She said she reported the incident on the following day to TikTok's global head of marketing at the time who allegedly said he would raise the concerns further to the head of global human resources Wendy Jimenez. Lee is not named as a defendant. Puris added she reached out to Jimenez about the lack of follow-up and wrote that she was 'disappointed that the ethics team has not taken my concerns seriously.' She said she wanted to know that 'TikTok takes real action when one of their employees experiences sexual harassment.' In September 2022, Puris then emailed Jimenez again about concerns over the treatment of women at TikTok, age discrimination, the sexual harassment at Cannes Lion and the overall work environment. She pointed to how very few women had been named to permanent leadership roles during the North American reorganization, the way TikTok handled the sexual harassment incident at Cannes Lion, and the emphasis at TikTok on hiring 'young, fresh talent.' But Puris claimed she was fired for 'performance reasons' just days later. Marjorie Mesidor and Monica Hincken, lawyers for Puris, said in a joint statement that she faced swift retaliation for complaining about discrimination despite being 'enormously successful' at her job. 'TikTok's actions against Ms. Puris are illegal and we look forward to vindicating her rights,' they said. Puris previously worked at Alphabet's Google, Meta's Facebook and major advertising agencies, according to her complaint. The lawsuit accuses TikTok and ByteDance of violating US and New York state and city laws prohibiting workplace discrimination and retaliation. Puris is seeking an unspecified amount of money for economic losses, pain and suffering and harm to her reputation and career. The suit comes months after ByteDance was accused of racism and retaliation by black former employees who claimed the company fired them because they spoke out against discrimination in a complaint with the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. DailyMail.com has contacted Zenith Worldwide and Christian Lee for comment. Dramatic body camera footage shows the disturbing attack on two New York City Police Department cops in Times Square - as seven migrants have been charged in the incident. The Manhattan District Attorney Office's has released footage from two overhead cameras and two body cameras that captured much the January 7 attack Police were called to disperse a 'disorderly group' in front of 220 West 42 Street when suspect Yohenry Brito, 24, 'got confrontational with the officers' and they attempted to arrest him, according to NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny. The officers start by asking the group to move to a different location, then NYPD Lieutenant Ben Kurian confronts Brito, wearing the yellow jacket, when he appears to not leave the area. Body camera footage shows the moment Brito was grabbed by the lieutenant and pushed against a wall as he attempts to arrest him. Newly released body camera footage shows the disturbing attack on two New York City Police Department cops in Times Square Police were called to disperse a 'disorderly group' in front of 220 West 42 Street when suspect Yohenry Brito, 24, 'got confrontational with the officers' Body camera footage from NYPD Lieutenant Ben Kurian shows the moment suspect Yohenry Brito, 24, wearing the yellow jacket, was grabbed by the lieutenant As Kurian is holding Brito against the wall, groups of people are heard shouting in Spanish at the officer. That is when Brito attempted to escape from Kurian and with the assistance of Officer Zunxu Tian, the cops grabbed the migrant's clothing as they tried to restrain him. Videos show the two officers and Brito falling to the ground and during the struggle is when other suspects interfered by pulling, grabbing and kicking the officers. As Brito attempts to wriggle away, the officers are holding on to his shirt that he eventually takes off. 'Go arrest those guys,' Kurian said as the crowd fled. On Thursday, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg announced six additional indictments over the attack, pinpointing the actions of each attacker to explain why he was bringing charges against them. Up to 14 men are believed to have been involved in the attack, although NYPD officials have repeatedly revised the number of suspects. Brito attempted to escape from Lieutenant Kurian and with the assistance of Officer Zunxu Tian, the cops grabbed the migrants clothing as they tried to restrain him Videos shows the two officers and Brito falling to the ground and during the struggle is when other suspects interfered by pulling, grabbing and kicking the officers As Brito attempts to wriggle away, the officers are holding on to his shirt that he eventually takes off On Thursday, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg indicted seven migrants over the attack, pinpointing the actions of each attacker to explain why he was bringing charges against them Bragg said his office had secured grand jury indictments for a total of seven suspects, including two people who have not yet been arrested. Only one of the seven indicted suspects is currently in custody - Brito - who police believe was at the center of the assault. Four of the migrants indicted on Thursday are believed to have fled NYC after being arrested and released with no bail - Darwin Gomez, Kelvin Servita, Wilson Juarez and Yorman Reveron. ICE initially said they had apprehended the four suspects in Phoenix, but the Manhattan district attorney's office has denied they are the suspects believed to have fled. Two of the accused men have not been named or arrested. Police released their pictures on Wednesday before indicting them the following day along with the others. 'The four individuals they took into custody were not affiliated with the New York City investigation,' a spokesperson for the Manhattan district attorney's office said on Wednesday. 'To date, we have not received any indication from federal authorities that they have detained anyone related to our case.' Police sources previously said that four of the migrants charged in the Times Square attack may have fled the city after using fake names to obtain tickets from a charity that helps migrants Darwin Andres Gomez (left) and Kelvin Servita Arocha were released without bail and are thought to have tried to flee Wilson Juarez (left) and Yorman Reveron also fled: they are charged with ganging up on two cops in Times Square One of the indicted migrants is seen wearing a red shirt and white hat during the January 27 attack. Police say he kicked the officers at least three times before throwing a punch The new second indicted suspect wanted on assault charges was allegedly seen kicking officers while wearing a black puffer jacket and a red baseball hat Brito, Gomes, Reveron and Arocha are all charged with two counts of Assault in the Second Degree and one count of Obstructing Governmental Administration in the Second Degree. Juarez and Brito are charged with one count of Tampering with Physical Evidence. Police say neither Juarez or Arocha ever hit the officers, but that Arocha kicked a police radio as Juarez watched from a distance before giving his jacket to Brito. Gomez is accused of grabbing one officer and kicking the other one while Reveron allegedly grabbed, pulled and threw the two cops on the ground. Wilson Juarez, is now believed to have watched the brawl from a distance without participating. He has since been charged with tampering with physical evidence because he allegedly traded his jacket with a man who fled police following the confrontation, prosecutors said, One suspect who was arrested and released without bail last week was not indicted on Thursday- Jhoan Boada, 22, who was pictured leaving the courthouse with his middle fingers up at reporters. Police said there were at least five additional suspects they were looking to interview. Jhoan Boada, 22, was arrested in connection to the attack and was pictured leaving the courthouse with his middle fingers up at reporters and smirked The man believed to be at the center of the attack, Yohenry Brito, 24, is the only one of the suspects being held on bail. He remains in Rikers Island New York City in particular has struggled under the weight of tens of thousands of migrants arriving at its borders in need of places to stay and other accommodations. In 2023 alone, the city dealt with the arrival of more than 100,000 migrants. Mayor Eric Adams has said the cost of the migrant crisis in New York City is an eye-watering $4.6 billion as he begs the state for more money. New York state governor Kathy Hochul pledged to commit $2.4 billion to the crisis last month, which is more than double last year's proposal. But Adams claims this still isn't enough to cover the cost of caring for tens of thousands of people who continue pouring in to the Big Apple 'sanctuary city.' The news filtered through shortly before First Ministers Questions: Michael Matheson was resigning to spend more time with his roaming charges. It was a grievous loss to the health service, which will now have to settle for being mismanaged by someone else. Come noon, Dougie Ross was champing at the bit. Deflect and reject - but not a bit of regret Chugging away like an indignant wee tractor, he was. He recalled that, when the iPad scandal first broke, Humza Yousaf assured Holyrood that Matheson was a man of integrity and honesty. Boy, was he in the wrong government. The First Minister had come with a game plan to get him through this Q&A: reject and deflect. He accepted that his outgoing health secretary did make a mistake, which was mighty generous of him, but said he had a right to due process. He can have a right to anything he wants, just not streaming the Celtic game from Morocco at taxpayers expense. Besides, Yousaf needled the Tory leader, he had once backed Boris Johnson and called him an honest man. No doubt the First Minister developed his keen affinity for honesty in politics during his decade inside Nicola Sturgeons inner circle. Ross detected not a bit of regret from the First Minister and wondered why, if Matheson was so concerned for due process, he was quitting before the report into his actions had been published. The Conservative chief has grasped from the start that this scandal isnt about improper use of taxpayers money. This is Holyrood. If someone had to clear their desk every time public money was wasted, the only people left would be the cleaners. This scandal is about Yousafs faulty judgment in sticking by Matheson and allowing the row to hang over his government for months. Yousaf is Scotlands first First Minister to hold a degree in politics, and arguably its worst when it comes to the practice of politics. Make of that what you will. The SNP boss lashed out at Ross over his past failure to declare tens of thousands in income. This was desperate, pitiful stuff. Ross reported himself to the parliamentary standards watchdog in 2021 after realising his MSP and refereeing earnings hadnt been recorded in his Westminster register of interests. Scottish Tory leader Douglas Ross held Humza to account The watchdog found that there had been no deliberate attempt to mislead and Ross promised the error wouldnt happen again. No wonder. Given income tax rates under the SNP, no one has extra thousands of pounds to forget about any more. Quite how much of this made it to Rosss ears is hard to know. He was bounding up and down in his seat, wildly gesticulating with Mathesons resignation letter like it was a red card for a particularly bothersome midfielder. As his interjections growled louder and louder, the Presiding Officer lost patience and gave him a telling off. Undeterred, Ross leapt up to accuse Yousaf of being a human shield for Matheson. If the First Minister was my only option in the way of armour, Id take my chances with enemy fire. Yousaf brushed off the attack by citing an Ipsos-Mori poll showing high levels of trust in the SNP to run the country. Only, he had a fit of the Reverend Spooners and described it as an Ipsos-Pori mole. A new breed of political animal, perhaps? Nat backbencher Clare Haughey posed one of those fiendishly tricky questions that inquire whether the First Minister agrees that Westminster is an absolute rotter, in this instance in relation to pensions. The Presiding Officer reminded the SNP benches that the Scottish Government deals only with devolved matters. Its about time someone reminded them. So Yousaf was denied his viral video of Tory-bashing tub-thumping. Amid growing din across the chamber, Yousaf sniffed that he would be sending a written answer to Haughey because these were matters for the Scottish Government. The Tories ooh-ed like excited schoolchildren. You cant challenge the Presiding Officers ruling except on a substantive motion. Someone was in big trouble now. Yousaf was asked to repeat himself. Realising his faux pas, he deftly edited his remarks to leave out the part where he told the Presiding Officer she was wrong. The Tories clyped on him at the top of their lungs, and the PO tersely reiterated the rules. With stunning beaches and wild mountain views, they are among Scotlands most picturesque landscapes. Now an influential American business magazine for the super-rich has selected the Outer Hebrides as one of its four European island destinations to visit this year. Forbes described the islands as having Caribbean vistas with Scottish weather. Joining the isles in the top four Forbes list are the Croatian island of Hvar, the volcanic Italian island of Stromboli and Icelands picturesque island of Heimaey. Idyllic Tiree is famed for its stunning white beaches Forbes included the Inner Hebridean island of Tiree in its praise of the Western Isles. It said: The Outer Hebrides, also known as the Western Isles, is an archipelago off the West Coast of mainland Scotland comprising over 200 islands stretching over 130 miles. Only a few are fully inhabited, and while tourists often head for the exceptional Isle of Lewis and the Isle of Harris (which are actually one island but referred to as two, partly because their landscapes are so varied), wind lovers would enjoy the Isle of Tiree. Its the flattest isle, beloved by wind and kite surfers with long Caribbean-white sandy beaches its locally called the Hawaii of the North. Its 650 residents are friendly and welcoming to tourists, who usually arrive in July for the Tiree music festival celebrating Scottish folk. Access to Tiree is by air from Glasgow Airport or by ferry from Oban on the Scottish mainland, on the ferry services provided by Caledonian MacBrayne (locally known as CalMac). The best time to visit any of the islands in the Outer Hebrides is definitely in summer, when the weather is as warm as it will ever be, the days are longer and the sea is a refreshing 50F/14C. It is a top spot for surfing in Scotland It added: For anyone searching for a list of islands to visit this year, its worth recognising that just in Europe there are over 2,000 populated islands (discounting the European countries that are actually big islands, like the UK and Iceland). So, while Santorini, Sardinia, Ibiza and Mykonos are often the go-to islands in Europe, there are plenty of other lesser known ones that are worth a visit and some will have fewer crowds in 2024. The Isle of Tiree is famed for its relatively mild climate. Measuring only 12 miles long and three miles wide, it is small and flat. The island is also known for its fertile soils and has a strong crofting heritage. Tiree is also one of the sunniest places in the UK, and with the moderating influence of the warm Gulf Stream, winter temperatures are generally higher than on the mainland. Tourism body VisitScotland has even described summer evenings on the island as warm and balmy. As the Buffalo Public Schools budget season accelerates, a wrinkle has emerged in the districts plan to overcome the expiration in September of $90 million in Covid-19 relief funds while avoiding any staff layoffs. In a presentation to the School Board Wednesday at City Hall, the district announced plans to cut 34 prekindergarten-through eighth-grade classrooms for the 2024-25 school year, including five bilingual classrooms. Buffalo Schools Chief Financial Officer Jim Barnes described frequent conversations with Superintendent Tonja M. Williams related to paring down expenses. Two of her most-repeated phrases have been to bring down the temperature and were after efficiencies, Barnes said. Both emphasized the district is in the second week of a four-month budget process. Weve got to start to think a little differently, Williams said. Its going to be difficult because weve been in the business of saying yes, because we have had the resources to say yes to everything that schools said they needed. Buffalo Schools discusses preliminary plan to avoid layoffs when Covid money ends Is it realistic to trim $90 million in expenses, including the salaries of 314 employees, to balance the budget without relieving real humans of their jobs? Buffalo Schools thinks so. Efficiencies in Barnes scenario does not mean firing 34 elementary teachers. That would have incensed a board that has largely lauded the districts efforts so far to focus cuts on areas outside of the classroom. He reiterated Wednesday that the district hopes to eliminate staffing vacancies a financial cushion for prior budgets and fill only select positions of retiring staff members to avoid layoffs. Axing vacancies alone would save $30 million to $50 million, he said. Consolidating classrooms would raise the districtwide average of students per classroom to 21, but with no single school averaging more than 25 per class, according to the district. The collective bargaining agreement with the Buffalo Teachers Federation caps elementary class size at 30 students before a teacher may file an overage grievance. School Board President Sharon Belton-Cottman and board member at large Larry Scott bristled at the notion of eliminating classrooms and increasing class sizes, because it would mean less individualized attention to students. The concern I have is that the needs of children have escalated and the learning has gone down, Belton-Cottman said. Buffalo Schools Superintendent Tonja Williams receives one-year extension, raise for 2023-24 The board voted 7-0 to approve a one-year extension as an amendment in Williams' contract, which now ends June 30, 2026, as well as a raise of $6,750 to a new salary of $276,750 for the 2023-24 school year. The larger objective of Buffalo Public Schools is to right-size the gap between staffing and student enrollment, which has widened since the Covid-19 pandemic. A narrowing was likely necessary even if the pandemic had not happened, but aggressive hiring using Covid-19 relief funds heightened the gulf between staffing and enrollment. In the years from 2013 to 2023, district enrollment trends show large declines in elementary and middle school-age populations, according to data released by the district in November. As a whole, Buffalo has lost more than 4,000 students over that span, dropping its enrollment from preschool through 12th grade from 34,000 to about 30,000. In 2013, Buffalo Schools enrolled 10,084 students in grades one to four. In 2023, the district enrolled 8,133 in that same range, a difference of 1,951. About 1,200 of that decline well over half came between 2020 and 2023. The numbers are similar for fifth- through eighth-graders. In 2013, 10,082 enrolled, compared with 8,275 in 2023 a drop of 1,807. About 1,150 of that decline came between 2020 and 2023. Buffalo Schools to receive $5 million in mental health support from state The significance of the state grant is Buffalo can afford to bolster and sustain systems established to respond to disrupted learning and the social-emotional problems that stemmed from isolation during Covid-19. Staffing, however, has increased at an average of 132 positions per year over the last four years, reaching a total of 5,721 in the current school year. To respond to the pandemic, Buffalo invested in more student support staff, including social workers, school psychologists, counselors and attendance teachers, as well as beefed up school security. Buffalo also received a surge in teacher applicants after coming to terms with a new union contract last spring. The district pivoted in the opposite direction six weeks ago, issuing a hiring freeze that remains in effect. Barnes said the teachers contract a $260 million deal inked about 10 months ago specifically prompted the classroom consolidation. It raised their average salaries from $70,000 to $90,000, he said. Very well-deserved, everyone was behind it. All were asking is to teach an average class size of 21, no more than that. Schools throughout the district last week received their individual budget books, which provided an early look at their staffing levels for next year. Meetings to approve these school budgets will be held in about six weeks. Joe Biden was 'painfully slow' during interviews with Department of Justice investigators as he battled a failing memory, according to a damning report into his mishandling of sensitive documents. A special counsel did not recommend charging Biden over documents found at his home and an office. But Robert Hur's 388-page report offers a welter of evidence for the president's opponents who say he lacks the mental capacity at age 81 to be reelected in November. It describes how hours of recordings with his ghostwriter Mark Zwonitzer revealed him struggling to remember details. 'Mr. Biden's memory also appeared to have significant limitationsboth at the time he spoke to Zwonitzer in 2017, as evidenced by their recorded conversations, and today, as evidenced by his recorded interview with our office,' reads the report. Joe Biden was 'painfully slow' during interviews with Department of Justice investigators as he battled a failing memory, according to a damning report into his mishandling of sensitive documents. President Joe Biden will not be criminally charged with stashing classified documents in his garage and private office 'Mr. Biden's recorded conversations with Zwonitzer from 2017 are often painfully slow, with Mr. Biden struggling to remember events and straining at times to read and relay his own notebook entries.' Zwonitzer collaborated with then former Vice President Biden on his memoir 'Promise Me, Dad.' At times Biden read to him from his handwritten notes, taken from internal White House briefings. Some of that amounted a national security risk, the report says. 'Mr. Biden wrote down obviously sensitive information discussed during intelligence briefings with President Obama and meetings in the White House Situation Room about matters of national security and military and foreign policy,' it says. 'And while reading his notebook entries aloud during meetings with his ghostwriter, Mr. Biden sometimes skipped over presumptively classified material and warned his ghostwriter the entries might be classified, but at least three times Mr. Biden read from classified entries aloud to his ghostwriter nearly verbatim.' Biden found himself in the spotlight after his predecessor Donald Trump was charged with illegally keeping classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago home. Hur spent a year investigating. His report will likely undermine the Biden campaign's attempts to use the charges against Trump in the 2024 election. Instead there is plentiful ammunition for Trump, with a series of revelations about Biden's mental sharpness. Department of Justice photographs reveal boxes and boxes of files stored in unsecure locations, such as the garage of his home. It describes his failure to remember key dates in his career and his personal life when he was interviewed by investigators. 'He did not remember when he was vice president, forgetting on the first day of the interview when his term ended ("if it was 2013 - when did I stop being Vice President?"), and forgetting on the second day of the interview when his term began ("in 2009, am I still Vice President?"),' he reportedly said. 'He did not remember, even within several years, when his son Beau died.' He was also apparently hazy on the debate around withdrawing troops from Afghanistan, which was such a key part of the first months of his presidency. 'We also expect many jurors to be struck by the place where the Afghanistan documents were ultimately found in Mr. Biden's Delaware home: in a badly damaged box in the garage, near a collapsed dog crate, a dog bed, a Zappos box, an empty bucket, a broken lamp wrapped with duct tape, potting soil, and synthetic firewood,' the report concludes. The long-awaited report will provide ammunition for critics who say that Biden is too old to be president. It describes frequent memory lapses The report is crammed with pictures of documents recovered from Biden's home or an office he used when he was vice president The box circled in the foreground contained documents about Afghanistan. The picture was taken in December 2022 in Biden's garage, with other household items The report details lapses in Biden's memory, both in conversations with his ghostwriter and with investigators. The conclusion is that jurors may have though he made an innocent mistake Photographs in the report include some of the classified Afghanistan documents, showing how they were apparently stored with other household items, including a ladder and a wicker basket. The material included notebooks with handwritten entries 'implicating sensitive intelligence sources and methods' taken from White House briefings. The investigation said there was plenty of evidence to suggest that Biden was aware that he was not allowed to keep such classified notes after leaving office, pointing out that his long Washington career meant he was familiar 'with the measures taken to safeguard classified information and the need for those measures to prevent harm to national security.' Even so, notebooks crammed with classified information were stored in unlocked drawers at his home. And it was not simply the case that the notebooks were misplaced and forgotten. 'He consulted the notebooks liberally during hours of discussions with his ghostwriter and viewed them as highly private and valued possessions with which he was unwilling to part,' writes Hur. Biden said he was pleased that no charges would be brought and declared the matter closed. Special Counsel Robert Hur spent a year investigating files found at President Joe Biden's home and former office. He said Biden's status as president meant he could not be prosecuted 'I cooperated completely, threw up no roadblocks, and sought no delays,' he said. 'In fact, I was so determined to give the special counsel what they needed that I went forward with five hours of in-person interviews over two days on October 8th and 9th of last year, even though Israel had just been attacked on October 7th and I was in the middle of handling an international crisis.' White House spokesman Ian Sams said the report offered a misleading account of the president's memory. 'The inappropriate criticisms of the presidents memory are inaccurate, gratuitous, and wrong,' he said. 'We told the Special Counsel this.' For his part, Trump said the findings showed he had been unfairly targeted for prosecution in a two-tiered system. 'The Biden Documents Case is 100 times different and more severe than mine,' he said in an emailed statement. I did nothing wrong, and I cooperated far more. 'What Biden did is outrageously criminal - He had 50 years of documents, 50 times more than I had, and "WILLFULLY RETAINED" them.' Hur's investigation was separate from Special Counsel Jack Smith's probe into Trump after he left the White House. Smith alleges Trump illegally retained secret documents at his home and then obstructed efforts to recover them. Trump denies any wrongdoing. In Biden's case, officials contacted the National Archives to return documents when they had been found at his former office. The FBI was notified and an investigation opened. Hur said Biden could not be prosecuted as a sitting president. 'We would reach the same conclusion even if Department of Justice policy did not foreclose criminal charges against a sitting president,' his report said. Critics of Biden pointed out how the Department of Justice homed in on the idea that jurors would give Biden leeway as a forgetful old man. 'If you're too senile to stand trial, then you're too senile to be president,' said Alex Pfeiffer, of the Trump-supporting political action committee Make America Great Again. 'Joe Biden is unfit to lead this nation.' Vladimir Putin outrageously claimed last night that he was ready to sign a deal to end the war with Ukraine 18 months ago but Boris Johnson scuppered the deal. The Russian President sensationally claimed the former Prime Minister 'dissuaded' the leader of Ukraine's leading party from signing the document. Mr Putin alleged that negotiations had been taking place in Istanbul and that Ukraine signed the deal but backed out under pressure from Mr Johnson who said it was 'better to fight Russia'. The 70-year-old despot made the jaw-dropping accusations during the much anticipated two-hour long sit-down interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson. Mr Putin was allowed to drone on unchallenged for long chunks of time as he gave a rambling history lesson about Russia dating back to the year 800. Vladimir Putin outrageously claimed last night that he was ready to sign a deal to end the war with Ukraine 18 months ago but Boris Johnson scuppered the deal The Russian President sensationally claimed the former Prime Minister 'dissuaded' the leader of Ukraine's leading party from signing the document and said it 'was better to fight Russia' He claimed that Davyd Arakhamia, the head of Ukraine's ruing party, put his 'preliminary signature' on the deal after direct negotiations with Russians in Istanbul. Mr Putin said: 'But then he [Arakhamia] publicly stated to the whole world, we were ready to sign this document but Mr Johnson, then the Prime Minister, came and dissuaded us from doing this, saying it was better to fight Russia. 'They would give everything needed for us to return what was lost during the clashes with Russia. And we agreed with this proposal'. Mr Putin went on: 'And the fact that they obey the demand or persuasion of Mr Johnson, the former Prime Minister of Great Britain, seems ridiculous. 'And it's very sad to me because, as Mr Arakhamia put it, we could have stopped those hostilities with war a year and a half ago already. But the British persuaded us and we refused this. Where is Mr Johnson now? And the war continues.' He accused the US of telling Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to refuse to negotiate any deal and said he wanted to agree a settlement. 'And we made it [a deal],' he said. 'We prepared the huge document in Istanbul that was initialed by the head of the Ukrainian delegation. He had fixed his signature to some of the provisions, not to all of it. He put his signature and then he himself said, we were ready to sign it, and the war would have been over long ago. Eighteen months ago. The despot made the jaw-dropping accusations during the much anticipated two-hour long sit-down interview with former Fox News presenter Tucker Carlson Russian Presidential Aide Vladimir Medinsky, left, and Davyd Arakhamia pose for media during talks between Russian and Ukrainian delegations in Dolmabahce Palace, Istanbul, in March 2022 Ukrainian Parliament member Arakhamia (C front) during Russian-Ukrainian talks in the Gomel Region of Belarus in February 2022 Putin claims they had prepared a huge document in Istanbul that was initialed by the head of the Ukrainian delegation (Pictured: Delegations from Ukraine and Russia in Belarus) Zelenskyy and Commander of Ukraine's Ground Forces Colonel General Oleksandr Syrski, right, look at a map during their visit to the front line city of Kupiansk, Kharkiv region in November 2023 Russian soldiers load a rocket into a Grad rocket launcher on a mission at an undisclosed location in Ukraine 'However, Prime Minister Johnson came, talk to us out of it and we missed that chance. Well, you missed it. You made a mistake. Let them get back to that.' The Kremlin has previously suggested Mr Johnson's trip to Kyiv in April 2022 as an intervention to derail any peace deal and would have seen Russia withdrawing its troops. The deal would have seen Ukraine abandoning its plans to join Nato and accepting neutrality. Maria Zakharova, the Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman, alleged late last year that Mr Johnson 'banned' Kyiv from signing a peace agreement. She made the remarks on the back of Mr Arakhamia telling Ukrainian media that Mr Johnson had advised them to 'not sign anything' with Russia 'and let's just fight'. Mr Johnson told The Times last month: 'This is nothing but total nonsense and Russian propaganda.' Those denials were backed up by Mr Arakhamia who accused Moscow of distorting his words and saying it would be impossible for any western allies to order Zelensky what to do. He told The Times: 'No peace proposals or peace agreement were possible in February or March 2022. Russia entered Ukraine solely for the sake of seizing territories, killing citizens and overthrowing a democratic government. Mr Putin also told Carlson they 'simply don't have any interest' in expanding the war in Ukraine. 'Can you imagine a scenario where you send Russian troops to Poland?' Carlson asked in the interview. 'Only in one case, if Poland attacks Russia,' Putin responded, and added: 'We have no interest in Poland, Latvia or anywhere else. Mr Putin also told Carlson they 'simply don't have any interest' in expanding the war in Ukraine Putin bizarrely twisted his foot and was apparently struggling with a twitching leg during his meeting with Kim Jong Un - a motion he repeated during the Carlson interview 'Why would we do that? We simply don't have any interest... It is absolutely out of the question.' It is the first time Putin has spoken with an American journalist since before Russia's invasion of Ukraine nearly two years ago. The Kremlin said Putin agreed to the Carlson interview because the approach of the former Fox News host differed from the 'one-sided' reporting of the Ukraine conflict by many Western news outlets. Throughout the interview Putin was bizarrely twisting his left foot reigniting speculation about the dictator's health. The Kremlin leader has been dogged by claims of declining health since long before he ordered his invasion of Ukraine But in the 18 months since, rumours have only intensified as the war appears to have taken its toll. Other footage from meetings and appearances has shown Putin gripping a table for support, tapping his feet seemingly uncontrollably, and looking unsteady as he walked. In September Putin appeared to be struggling with a twitching leg in a meeting with Kim Jong Un. As the leaders sat down at a Russian space base for talks, video footage shows Putin repeatedly raising and lowering his left foot as his knee collapses inward - a motion he repeats in the Carlson interview. Putin later adjusted his position in the chair but his left foot appeared to continue erratically flexing as the North Korean leader told him he was fighting a 'sacred war' with the West and their two countries would together battle with 'imperialism'. Tim Watson-Munro described Samantha Murphy's disappearance as a 'very odd case' and said nothing could be ruled out A respected criminal psychologist has raised the possibility missing mother Samantha Murphy may have had a stalker if her disappearance is found to be a result of foul play. The 51-year-old hasn't been seen or heard from since Sunday morning, when she vanished while going for a run in the Woowookarung Regional Park, in Ballarat, northwest of Melbourne, just after 7am. While police have said they are not currently treating her disappearance as suspicious, detectives from the missing persons unit were called in to take over the search on Friday. Now worried residents hoping to join the rescue efforts to find Ms Murphy have been left shocked after learning the search has all but been abandoned. On Saturday, locals who turned-up in anticipation of helping rescue crews in the hunt for Ms Murphy were told there would be no co-ordinated effort and that they could carry out their own searches alone. Tim Watson-Munro described Ms Murphy's disappearance as a 'very odd case' and said nothing could be ruled out. 'Who's responsible I don't think we could say. As I understand it was a happy home life,' he told Daily Mail Australia. Ms Murphy (pictured) has not been heard from or seen since Sunday morning 'It could be that she was being stalked, if you have a regular pattern, stalkers love that and she had a regular pattern of running through that area.' Mr Watson-Munro also said misadventure could be a possibility and noted locals in the area had raised concerns about unnoticeable mineshafts in the state forest. He also said that if any crime has occurred, it's also possible it may be opportunistic, in that someone has seen Ms Murphy out and decided to act on that. The theory comes as camper Rebecca Agheli told Daily Mail Australia about a chilling encounter she had with a 'dishevelled man' in bushland near Ms Murphy's home just days before she vanished. 'It would seem that [Ms Murphy} is not someone who has ran away from home,' Mr Watson-Munro said. 'Bringing in the homicide squad is not that unusual but always the mention of homicide presses people's buttons.' Attention has also turned to Ms Murphy's husband, Michael, with online trolls posting negative comments about the father. Ms Watson-Munro said any criticism of Mr Murphy was 'totally unfair'. 'I think it's a big mistake with respect to those out there who want to be armchair detectives to read too much into people's body language,' he said. 'You don't know how you're going to react to something.' Ms Murphy's husband Michael is seen speaking with police on Friday The expert said it was a good thing that so many people were interested in what has happened to Ms Murphy, given a lot of information is coming from the public. 'It's a good thing people are talking about this case, it keeps it alive,' he said. CCTV footage showing Ms Murphy outside her home on Sunday was the last confirmed sighting of her alive. Family remembers reported her missing after she failed to arrive for a brunch scheduled for that morning. On Friday, Detective Acting Superintendent Mark Hatt told reporters detectives would now look into Ms Murphy's movements and interactions with others in the days before she vanished, including her friends and family. SES crews are seen on the sixth day of the search for the 51-year-old Part of the investigation - now dubbed Operation Primus - will see detectives trawl through Ms Murphy's computers and devices in the hope of finding clues. Superintendent Hatt said police were still working to ascertain who may have been in the area where Ms Murphy's phone lost communication with mobile phone towers. Her mobile phone had pinged in the nearby suburb of Buninyong before going dark. Detectives are still working with phone companies to obtain data that might prove vital to shedding some light on the investigation. 'At this stage we can't share any information to that regard. We are still working with our telecommunication technicians to establish phone movements and who was in the area at the time,' Superintendent Hatt said. 'I can also confirm that we have not identified any suspicious or sinister circumstances, however we do hold significant concerns for Samantha's welfare at this stage and that is growing as the days progress.' Rebecca Agheli said she saw Ms Murphy run past her 24 hours before she disappeared after a frightening encounter she had with a 'dishevelled man' in the bush just days earlier The investigation continues as a camper told Daily Mail Australia she saw Ms Murphy run past her 24 hours before she disappeared after a frightening encounter she had with a 'dishevelled man' in the bush just days earlier. Rebecca Agheli and her partner, Michael, rented a caravan for a long weekend trip to Ballarat on a goldhunting excursion near Woowookarung Regional Park, arriving on February 1. Ms Agheli said she only found out last Thursday that Ms Murphy had disappeared, and pieced together that she had seen her run past their campsite on the Saturday morning before she vanished. When they arrived on February 1, about 15 minutes from the state forest, Ms Agheli got ready for their gold hunt while her partner scoped out the area. He quickly returned to their car after seeing a strange man. 'He's a big guy, he's not usually scared of anything, but he told me he'd seen a strange, dishevelled man pop out of the bush talking to himself with the crotch on his pants ripped,' she told Daily Mail Australia. The couple decided to pack up and go to another area, which Ms Agheli guesses was about a seven-minute drive away. Before Rebecca Agheli and her partner Michael left the state forest they saw Ms Murphy (pictured) run past, with the mother-of-three wishing them a good morning She said her partner had warned her of mine shafts in the area and suggested they go elsewhere, but Ms Agheli wanted to have a quick look and wandered a short distance away from the car. 'Then I saw the same guy again even after we'd just driven about seven minutes,' she said. 'His whole face lit up when he saw a woman on his own. 'I was thinking, "how did this guy get here so fast, he must know a shortcut". He had both of his hands behind his back and started walking towards me really fast.' Before the couple left the state forest they saw Ms Murphy run past, with the mother-of-three wishing them a good morning. Ms Agheli has spoken to detectives looking into Ms Murphy's case about what she saw. Michael also lost his Apple Watch and Ms Agheli said she had been told by police it last pinged in a similar area to where Ms Murphy's phone had also pinged in the nearby suburb of Buninyong. Ms Agheli is hoping what she saw may help in the investigation into Ms Murphy's whereabouts. 'I'm worried that something similar might happen to somebody else,' she said. 'That was my first camping trip and I'll never go there again.' On Saturday, locals who turned-up in anticipation of helping rescue crews in the hunt for Ms Murphy were told there would be no co-ordinated effort and that they could carry out their own searches alone. One resident told Daily Mail Australia he had hoped to join the effort after working all week. Its the first chance Ive had and just wanted to help out, he said. Police are advising locals not to enter the bush alone and to team up with a friend in the rugged terrain. Its a bit disappointing that its being wound down already, one man said. I mean, she could still be alive out there. It hasnt been that long. Ms Murphy's husband was also seen returning to the police station on Saturday morning, spending about half-an-hour inside before leaving. He declined to make a comment on exiting the building. Australia's most powerful banker has warned the future of cash is in jeopardy because it's expensive to distribute banknotes - and strongly hinted King Charles won't feature on the new $5 note. Michele Bullock issued a bleak picture of cash distribution during her first appearance before a parliamentary committee as Reserve Bank of Australia Governor. 'As the use of cash for transactions has declined, the economics of cash distribution has come under pressure,' she said on Friday morning. 'This was one of the main factors behind the merger of the two largest cash-in-transit providers last year.' Michele Bullock issued a bleak picture of cash distribution during her first appearance before a parliamentary committee as RBA Governor Armaguard and Prosegur Australia last year gained regulatory approval to merge, giving the new company Linfox Armaguard a 90 per cent share of Australia's cash-in-transit market. READ MORE: Chilling warning about another rate rise even though inflation has fallen to a two-year low The Reserve Bank of Australia has warned borrowers could face another interest rate hike even though inflation has fallen to a two-year low. Governor Michele Bullock and her monetary policy board left the cash rate on hold at a 12-year high of 4.35 per cent on Tuesday afternoon. But she has scotched any suggestion of an interest rate cut soon Advertisement This was based on a promise to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission that it would continue to deliver cash until 2026. 'Linfox Armaguard has since indicated that despite this, its cash distribution business remains unsustainable,' Ms Bullock said. 'The RBA places a high priority on the Australian community having good access to cash withdrawal and deposits.' Before the merger, Armaguard had distribution agreements with Commonwealth Bank, ANZ and NAB, while Prosegur, a Spanish company, had a deal with Westpac. Ms Bullock told the House of Representatives economics committee on Friday she would continue meeting with cash distribution industry leaders - urging them to put the public need for cash ahead of their own commercial interests. 'These discussions are likely to continue for some months,' she said. 'In developing a model for cash distribution that's sustainable in the long term, it's going to require addressing some very complex issues and it's going to take some time to work through. 'So I've encouraged the major participants in the cash distribution system to approach these issues with a public interest in mind rather than just their own, narrow business interests.' The new $5 banknote Ms Bullock also revealed the RBA, which owns polymer banknote manufacturer Note Printing Australia, has been consulting with Aboriginal groups on the design of the new $5 note, following the death of the Queen in 2022. 'Finally, I would just like to update the committee on work underway to redesign the $5 note,' she said. 'Last year we announced that we'd be taking the opportunity to feature a new design on the $5 note that honours and celebrates the culture and history of First Nations people. 'In recent weeks, we've also begun visiting First Nations community organisations in key regional and remote locations across Australia and the Torres Strait.' Treasurer Jim Chalmers a year ago announced King Charles won't be featuring as Australia's head of state, like his mother did as the monarch. The Australian public are being consulted in March and April, which would see the Queen disappear from the $5 note for the first time since 1992 when she replaced humanitarian Caroline Chisholm. 'As a first step in determining the design, we will be asking members of the public over the course of March and April to share with us what they think should be on our $5 banknote to represent First Nations culture and history in Australia,' Ms Bullock said. 'We're doing that to engage with local communities about the theme nomination.' This is occurring despite Australians using cash less often, even for small transactions with the RBA's own data showing 73 per cent of payments under $10 in 2022 were done with a card, compared with little more than half in 2019. During the last financial year, 718 automatic teller machines were removed, Australian Prudential Regulation Authority figures showed. This occurred as 424 bank branches closed in the year to June 2023. Ms Bullock also revealed the RBA, which owns polymer banknote manufacturer Note Printing Australia, would be consulting with Indigenous groups on the design of the new $5 note, following the death of the Queen in 2022 Armaguard and Prosegur Australia last year gained regulatory approval to merge, giving the new company Linfox Armaguard a 90 per cent share of Australia's cash-in-transit market The number of branches has plunged by more than a third or 37 per cent since June 2017, but in six years, the number of ATMs has plummeted by 59 per cent. Australia has 5,693 ATMs still in existence - less than half the 13,814 level of June 2017. The number of bank branches has fallen to 3,588, down from 5,694. This has also coincided with cash making up 16 per cent of in-person transactions in 2022, down from 32 per cent in 2019 before the pandemic, Reserve Bank data showed. Interest rates could still rise The Reserve Bank this week left interest rates on hold at 12-year high of 4.35 per cent but Ms Bullock told the parliamentary hearing on Friday interest rates could still increase - reiterating her warning at a Tuesday media conference. 'We are committed and the board is committed to getting inflation back down,' she said. 'It's important that people understand that we will do what we need to do to get it back down because the alternative is bad for everyone.' Ms Bullock warned inflation could stay high if the consumer price index stayed higher than 3 per cent beyond late 2025 That's despite rates going up in November for the 13th time in 18 months, marking the most aggressive pace of monetary policy tightening since 1989. Inflation last year fell to a two-year low of 4.1 per cent but it's not expected to return to the top of the RBA's 2 to 3 per cent target until late 2025. The consumer price index was tipped to remain above that mid-point until 2026. That would have meant four years of inflation being outside the target band that has been in place since the early 1990s. 'The longer inflation remains high, and outside the target range, the greater is the risk that inflation expectations of households and businesses will adjust higher,' Ms Bullock said. 'And if that happens, then the risk of inflation becoming entrenched at a higher level will rise.' Vladimir Putin played down fears of World War Three last night by claiming the prospect of Russia invading Poland or Latvia was 'out of the question'. The President said the Kremlin 'simply don't have any interest' in expanding the war in Ukraine and suggested such a conflict would 'bring all humanity to the brink of extinction' while attacking the US and the West for arming Kyiv. Putin made the comments in an interview with controversial American talk show host Tucker Carlson, his first with a Western journalist since before Russia's invasion of Ukraine nearly two years ago on February 24, 2022. The Russian despot also claimed military defeat for his troops was 'impossible' in the remarkable two-hour sit down in which he also said Boris Johnson scuppered a deal to end the fighting 18 months ago - months after Putin launched the invasion. Asked if he could imagine a scenario where his troops would be sent to Poland, Putin told Carlson: 'Only in one case, if Poland attacks Russia. We have no interest in Poland, Latvia or anywhere else. Why would we do that? We simply don't have any interest. It is absolutely out of the question.' In the sprawling and rambling interview in which Putin also opined on the history of Russia and Ukraine while making a series of stunning claims, he told Carlson: A global war would bring humanity 'to the brink of extinction' With AI and genetics, the world is changing faster than ever before Bill Clinton offered Russia a place in NATO, but was overruled by his staff Russia has superior 'supersonic missiles' to every other nation Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, held in Russian, is a 'spy' The CIA blew up the Nord Stream Pipeline Vladimir Putin played down fears of World War Three last night by claiming the prospect of Russia invading Poland or Latvia was 'out of the question' in a Tuesday interview with US talk show host Tucker Carlson (pictured) that was released last night Russian soldiers load a rocket into a launcher on a mission at an undisclosed location in Ukraine in a photo released yesterday Vladimir Putin outrageously claimed last night that he was read to sign a deal to end the war with Ukraine 18 months ago but Boris Johnson scuppered the deal The despot made the jaw-dropping accusations during the much anticipated two-hour long sit-down interview with former Fox News presenter Tucker Carlson Fears of a third world war were raised last month by several senior western defence officials, who urged NATO countries to ensure their countries are prepared for war. READ MORE: Moment Tucker Carlson heaps praise on Moscow where he has been for a week as Kremlin confirms ex-Fox News host has already met and interviewed Putin Advertisement But Putin ruled out the possibility of Russia invading Poland or Latvia - a scenario that has been put forward by analysts, many of whom believe the Russian president has ambitions beyond Ukraine's western borders. He said that the West was trying to scare its populations with the myths of a Russian threat, and pointed to the fact that - despite worries in the West - Moscow had not used tactical nuclear weapons on the battlefield in its on-going war with Kyiv. Putin said Russia would only ever attack Poland or Latvia if there was an attack on Russia from Poland, and that his country has no interests in Poland or Latvia. He also denied Russia had designs on the whole continent of Europe. 'You don't need to be some sort of analyst to know that this contradicts common sense - to get involved in some sort of global war. A global war would bring the whole of humanity to the brink of extinction. It is obvious,' Putin said. In the build up to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Putin and other Kremlin officials denied that Moscow had any plans to launch invasion. This was despite Russia building up a vast invasion force on the border in early 2022, before the strongman ordered his forces to attack Ukraine on February 24. In the interview with Carlson, Putin also claimed the West had failed to understand that Russia, after the 1991 fall of the Soviet Union, wanted to be part of the family of so called 'civilised peoples'. He said its hopes were spurned as NATO enlarged eastwards. Putin has regularly cited NATO expansion as a reason for his invasion of Ukraine. However, countries that have joined NATO cite the threat of Russian aggression as the reason for them joining the military alliance, with countries - most recently traditionally non-aligned Finland and Sweden - wanting the protection it brings. Fears of World War Three were ramped up in January when Admiral Rob Bauer, the chairman of NATO's Military Committee, urged both civilians and governments to prepare for cataclysmic conflicts and the chilling prospect of being conscripted. In the sprawling and rambling interview, Putin (pictured) also opined on the history of Russia and Ukraine while making a series of stunning claims 'We have to realise it's not a given that we are in peace. And that's why we [NATO forces] have the plans, that's why we are preparing for a conflict with Russia,' Bauer told reporters last month after a meeting of NATO defence chiefs in Brussels. 'But the discussion is much wider. It is also the industrial base and also the people that have to understand they play a role.' In a stark warning, he said civilians must be ready for a conflict in the next 20 years that would require wholesale change in their lives. The governments of Estonia, Sweden and now the UK have already warned their respective nations that the prospect of large-scale war is on the horizon. Secret plans were also leaked revealing that Germany is preparing for Putin's forces to attack NATO as early as 2025. The Kremlin said Putin agreed to the interview because the approach of the former Fox News host 'differed from the one-sided reporting of the Ukraine conflict'. The President was allowed to drone on unchallenged for long chunks of time as he gave a rambling history lesson dating back to dawn of Slavic history in 862. Putin has long claimed incorrectly that Ukraine is not an independent state, and that his invasion intends to reunify the two states. Ukraine says it is a distinct state with a distinct national identity, and that its history dates back before Russia. The Ukrainian people's willingness to fight the Russian invaders, and the anger felt towards Moscow, have demonstrated how strongly the country feels about this. After Putin's half-hour history lecture, Putin also questioned why the US needed to spend so much on arming Ukraine for a war he cast in some ways similar to a 'civil war' again incorrectly suggesting Russian and Ukraine are one country. 'Does the United States need this? Why? It is thousands of kilometres away from its territory! Don't you have anything else to do?' Putin said. He said there were mercenaries from the United States, Poland and Georgia fighting for Ukraine. Putin also outrageously claimed - without evidence - last night that he was ready to sign a deal to end the war with Ukraine a year and a half ago, but that Mr Johnson - then Prime Minister of the United Kingdom - scuppered the deal. Russian Presidential Aide Vladimir Medinsky, left, and Davyd Arakhamia pose for media during talks between Russian and Ukrainian delegations in Dolmabahce Palace, Istanbul, in March 2022 Ukrainian Parliament member Arakhamia (C front) during Russian-Ukrainian talks in the Gomel Region of Belarus in February 2022 Putin claims they had prepared a huge document in Istanbul that was initialed by the head of the Ukrainian delegation (Pictured: Delegations from Ukraine and Russia in Belarus) Zelenskyy and Commander of Ukraine's Ground Forces Colonel General Oleksandr Syrski, right, look at a map during their visit to the front line city of Kupiansk, Kharkiv region in November 2023 He claimed the former Prime Minister 'dissuaded' the leader of Ukraine's leading party from signing the document and said it 'was better to fight Russia'. He claimed that Davyd Arakhamia, the head of Ukraine's ruing party, put his 'preliminary signature' on the deal after direct negotiations with Russians in Istanbul. Mr Putin said: 'But then he [Arakhamia] publicly stated to the whole world, we were ready to sign this document but Mr Johnson, then the Prime Minister, came and dissuaded us from doing this, saying it was better to fight Russia. 'They would give everything needed for us to return what was lost during the clashes with Russia. And we agreed with this proposal'. Mr Putin went on: 'And the fact that they obey the demand or persuasion of Mr Johnson, the former Prime Minister of Great Britain, seems ridiculous. 'And it's very sad to me because, as Mr Arakhamia put it, we could have stopped those hostilities with war a year and a half ago already. But the British persuaded us and we refused this. Where is Mr Johnson now? And the war continues.' He accused the US of telling Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky to refuse to negotiate any deal and said he wanted to agree a settlement. 'And we made it [a deal],' he said. 'We prepared the huge document in Istanbul that was initialed by the head of the Ukrainian delegation. He had fixed his signature to some of the provisions, not to all of it. He put his signature and then he himself said, we were ready to sign it, and the war would have been over long ago. Eighteen months ago. 'However, Prime Minister Johnson came, talk to us out of it and we missed that chance. Well, you missed it. You made a mistake. Let them get back to that.' The Kremlin has previously suggested Mr Johnson's trip to Kyiv in April 2022 as an intervention to derail any peace deal and would have seen Russia withdrawing its troops. The deal would have seen Ukraine abandoning its plans to join Nato and accepting neutrality. Maria Zakharova, the Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman, alleged late last year that Mr Johnson 'banned' Kyiv from signing a peace agreement. She made the remarks on the back of Mr Arakhamia telling Ukrainian media that Mr Johnson had advised them to 'not sign anything' with Russia 'and let's just fight'. Mr Johnson told The Times last month: 'This is nothing but total nonsense and Russian propaganda.' Those denials were backed up by Mr Arakhamia who accused Moscow of distorting his words and saying it would be impossible for any western allies to order Zelensky what to do. He told The Times: 'No peace proposals or peace agreement were possible in February or March 2022. Russia entered Ukraine solely for the sake of seizing territories, killing citizens and overthrowing a democratic government.' Putin (right) and US talk show host Carlson speak during the interview in the Kremlin When asked what the decisive moment was that made up his mind to launch his attack, Putin responded, 'initially, it was the coup in Ukraine' - referencing the removal of Zelensky's predecessor Viktor Yanukovych in 2014. 'And what triggered the current events? Firstly, the current Ukrainian leadership would not implement the Minsk Agreements,' Putin continued. The Minsk Agreements were a series of treaties that sought to end the Donbas War between Ukraine and Russian separatist groups, signed in 2014. He accused former leaders of Germany and France of reneging on their commitments to the agreements. 'They never intended to implement them, they simply led us by the nose,' he said. He also bristled at the notion a change of president would change the outcome of the war. 'You just asked me if another leader comes and changes something? It is not about the leader,' he said. During the interview, Putin was also asked by Carlson who blew up the Nord Stream pipeline, a network of offshore natural gas pipelines which were built to funnel Russian natural gas to Germany and Western Europe. The project was opposed form the start by the United States and was canned with the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. However, in September 2022, the news broke that four explosions across Nord Steam 1 and 2 had rendered them inoperable. Exactly who carried out the sabotage has never been established, with speculation still rife, but Putin indicated it was the US Central Intelligence Agency. 'The CIA has no alibi,' Putin said. He also spoke about Evan Gershkovich, a US citizen and Wall Street Journal reporter. He was arrested by the Federal Security Service (FSB) on March 29, 2023, in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg on charges of espionage that carry up to 20 years in prison. Putin said Gershkovich was caught 'red handed' receiving classified information on behalf of US intelligence. But he said it made no sense to keep him in jail in Russia. 'I do not exclude that the person you mentioned, Mr. Gershkovich, may end up back in his homeland. Why not? It makes no sense, more or less, to keep him in jail in Russia,' Putin said. 'These negotiations are underway.' Putin suggested that in return, Moscow wanted Germany to free Vadim Krasikov, who was convicted of the 2019 murder of a Chechen dissident in Berlin, although he did not mention Krasikov by name. The Russian despot also claimed he sought to restore Russian relations with the US when he became president in 2000, even asking then-President Bill Clinton for a place in NATO. However, he alleged his request was rebuffed by Clinton's team. 'At a meeting here in the Kremlin with the outgoing President Bill Clinton, right here in the next room, I said to him, I asked him: "Bill, do you think if Russia asked to join NATO, do you think it would happen?" Putin said. Putin claimed that Bill Clinton's team refused to consider allowing Russia a place in NATO Putin claimed Clinton was initially receptive to the idea before changing his mind several hours later 'Suddenly he said, "you know, it's interesting. I think so." But in the evening, when we met for dinner, he said: You know, I've talked to my team, no, it's not possible now. 'You can ask him. I think he will watch our interview, he'll confirm it. I wouldn't have said anything like that if it hadn't happened. Okay, well, it's impossible now. ' He suggested Russia would have been willing to join the military alliance had it not been knocked back. 'If he had said yes, the process of rapprochement would have commenced, and eventually it might have happened if we had seen some sincere wish on the side of our partners. But it didn't happen. Well, no means no, okay, fine,' Putin added. However, he refuted the suggestion the rejection stoked tensions. 'It's not bitterness. It's just the statement of fact. We're not bride and groom, bitterness, resentment, it's not about those kind of matters in such circumstances. We just realized we weren't welcome there, that's all,' he said. Throughout the interview Putin was bizarrely twisting his left foot reigniting speculation about the dictator's health. The Kremlin leader has been dogged by claims of declining health since long before he ordered his invasion of Ukraine But in the 18 months since, rumours have only intensified as the war appears to have taken its toll. Russian President Vladimir Putin had to use his hand to calm his jittery leg and stop it from moving Other footage from meetings and appearances has shown Putin gripping a table for support, tapping his feet seemingly uncontrollably, and looking unsteady as he walked. In September Putin appeared to be struggling with a twitching leg in a meeting with Kim Jong Un. As the leaders sat down at a Russian space base for talks, video footage shows Putin repeatedly raising and lowering his left foot as his knee collapses inward - a motion he repeats in the Carlson interview. Putin later adjusted his position in the chair but his left foot appeared to continue erratically flexing as the North Korean leader told him he was fighting a 'sacred war' with the West and their two countries would together battle with 'imperialism'. On September 26, 2022 blasts knocked out the Nord Stream pipelines, destroying the energy link between Russia and the West Vladimir Putin claimed the United States was responsible for Nord Stream pipeline explosion but gave no proof in his interview with Tucker Carlson. On September 26, 2022 blasts knocked out three of the four strands of the Nord Stream pipelines, essentially destroying the main energy link between Russia and the West. Russia reportedly believes repairs will cost at least $500 million, but the Kremlin still has not confirmed the pipes will be fixed. The Nord Stream project is a pair of underwater natural gas pipelines that runs under the Baltic Sea from Russia to Germany to provide Western Europe with natural gas. During a two-hour interview with ousted Fox News host Tucker Carlson posted on Thursday, Putin accused the CIA of blowing up the pipeline. Carlson asked the Russian president who blew up Nord Stream, which Putin responded, 'You for sure.' Vladimir Putin claimed the United States was responsible for Nord Stream pipeline explosion but gave no proof in his interview with Tucker Carlson Carlson then asked if he had any evidence that NATO or the CIA was responsible for the attack, but Putin refused to provide any. 'You know, I won't get into details, but people always say in such cases, look for someone who is interested,' said Putin 'I was busy that day. I did not blow up Nord Stream. Thank you though,' Carlson joked. Putin said, 'You personally may have an alibi, but the CIA has no such alibi.' Carlson then asked if he had any evidence that NATO or the CIA was responsible for the attack, but Putin refused to provide any. 'You know, I won't get into details, but people always say in such cases, look for someone who is interested,' said Putin. 'But in this case, we should not only look for someone who is interested, but also for someone who has capabilities, because there may be many people interested, but not all of them are capable of sinking to the bottom of the Baltic Sea and carrying out this explosion.' 'These two components should be connected. Who is interested and who is capable of doing it,' the Russian president said. The United States government has staunchly denied claims of involvement in the attack on the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines. On September 26, 2022 blasts knocked out three of the four strands of the Nord Stream pipelines, essentially destroying the main energy link between Russia and the West Tucker pressed Putin, 'If you had evidence and presumably given your security services or Intel services, you would that NATO, the US, CIA, the West did this, why wouldn't you present it and win a propaganda victory?' The President of Russia said, 'In the war of propaganda, it is very difficult to defeat the United States because the United States controls all the world's media and many European media.' 'The ultimate beneficiary of the biggest European media are American financial institutions. Don't you know that? So it is possible to get involved in this work, but it is cost prohibitive, so to speak.' 'We can simply shine the spotlight on our sources of information and we will not achieve results. It is clear to the whole world what happened then. Even American analysts talk about it directly. It's true,' he said. Blame for the attack was initially pinned on the US, Russia, the Ukrainian secret services and an unnamed businessman in Ukraine. All three countries have vehemently denied responsibility. A convoy of six Russian naval vessels was reportedly spotted near the Nord Stream pipeline just five days before it was sabotaged. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was deliberately kept out of the loop, according to a CIA report shared by Jack Teixeira, a member of the Massachusetts Air National Guard, on the Discord chat platform. A report by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Seymour Hersh claims the U.S. was responsible for the Nord Stream pipeline attacks. Navy divers alleged planted the explosives in June, using NATO exercises as cover. They were then detonated remotely in September, it is claimed. The White House and the CIA have flatly denied the report. Russia has also been accused of carrying out the Nord Stream gas explosions. Explanations range from divers to spy subs, and underwater drones, with one possible motive being to cripple Europe's winter energy supplies Teixeira, 21, was arrested in April for leaking the material and faces trial for sharing national secrets. According to his document, the CIA reported: 'All of those involved in planning and execution reported directly to [chief of defense] Zaluzhny, so Zelensky wouldn't have known about it.' Other sources have reported that Roman Chervinsky, a colonel in Ukraine's special operations forces, was behind it - but Zelensky did not know. Pulitzer journalist Seymour Hersh theorized U.S. Navy divers planted C4 explosives on three Nord Stream pipelines in June 2022 which were detonated three months later using a sonar buoy which broadcast a signal that triggered the bombs. The White House repeatedly denied this claim as 'utterly false and complete fiction'. Brussels was told to butt out of British business last night for accusing the Government of breaking the Brexit deal by cracking down on disruptive strikes. EU bureaucrats 'expressed concerns' that the new UK law to keep trains, schools and emergency services running during industrial action may breach the landmark Trade and Cooperation Agreement. They claim the minimum-service levels legislation which rail bosses have in any case refused to use reduces employment rights in a way that the 2020 Brexit deal ruled out even though many EU countries also have minimum-service level laws. The European Commission is reportedly dissatisfied with the UK's claim that the law does not create an issue because it is not related to cross-border trade. There are now fears it could trigger a formal dispute, raising the prospect of a fresh trade war that could end in extra tariffs on UK exports to the bloc. Brussels was told to butt out of British business last night for accusing the Government of breaking the Brexit deal by cracking down on disruptive strikes (Pictured: ASLEF train strike in January) They claim the minimum-service levels legislation which rail bosses have in any case refused to use reduces employment rights in a way that the 2020 Brexit deal ruled out (Pictured: ASLEF General Secretary Mick Whelan) Last night, furious Brexiteers accused Brussels of overstepping the mark. Dame Priti Patel told the Mail: 'It seems like this is the EU throwing its weight around, trying to meddle in affairs that are nothing to do with them. Government is taking action to deal with them. We are a sovereign country and our Government and Parliament have legislated for these minimum-service levels. We don't want to see the kind of paralysis from strikes that we see in Europe.' Former Brexit minister David Jones said: 'Minimum-service levels are essential to ensure disruption by industrial action is not allowed to exceed reasonable levels. 'It is about time the EU recognised that the economic difficulties they are experiencing will continue unless there is reasonable regulation of industrial relations.' An ex-Cabinet minister said Brussels had a 'very weak case' to escalate the dispute to a political level because the strikes law does not affect UK-EU trade. But they added: 'They certainly think they've got the right to needle us.' A Tory party source warned that Britain will be stuck with Brussels edicts if Labour is voted in, adding: 'This is another example of how Labour's plan to remain aligned to the EU is storing up problems. 'Minimum-service levels are a practical solution to a long-running problem. Sadly, Sir Keir Starmer isn't prepared to stand up to his union paymasters and admit that when workers strike lives and livelihoods are put at undue risk.' A Tory source said: 'Minimum-service levels are a practical solution to a long-running problem' (Pictured: ASLEF picket line at Reading Station in February) Dame Priti Patel (pictured) told the Mail: 'It seems like this is the EU throwing its weight around, trying to meddle in affairs that are nothing to do with them' The Government spokesman said: 'Many members of the EU already have minimum-service levels legislation. 'There needs to be a balance between the right of workers to strike and the rights of the public, who expect essential services they pay for to be there when needed.' Yesterday, unions reacted with fury after the Government required fire brigades to crew 73 per cent of fire engines. Fire Brigades Union leader Matt Wrack said: 'This is an authoritarian plan.' TUC general secretary Paul Nowak added: 'We will fight these draconian laws.' Vladimir Putin has claimed imprisoned American reporter Evan Gershkovich is a spy who was caught 'red handed' with classified information. 'You know, you can give a different interpretations to what constitutes a spy. But there are certain things provided by law,' he said. 'If a person gets secret information and does that in conspiratorial manner, then this is qualified as espionage. Gershkovich, 32, was detained on March 29 last year and accused of espionage, the first American journalist to be arrested for alleged spying since the Cold War. The Russian president, in a controversial two-hour interview with Tucker Carlson, released on Thursday night, said he was open to a deal to send him home. Putin has many times insisted the wrongly jailed writer would only be released as part of a trade, and gave no new information during the interview. Gershkovich was reporting for the Wall Street Journal, with press credentials, when he was grabbed by the Federal Security Service in the city of Yekaterinburg. Evan Gershkovich was detained on March 29 last year and accused of espionage, the first American journalist to be arrested for alleged spying since the Cold War Russian president Vladimir Putin, in a controversial two-hour interview with Tucker Carlson released on Thursday night, restated that he was open to a deal to send him home Putin insisted Gershkovich was a spy despite Carlson saying he was 'obviously not a spy, he's a kid... he's not a super spy and everybody knows that.' However, Putin disputed the point saying the reporter had documents. 'And that is exactly what he was doing. He was receiving classified, confidential information, and he did it covertly.' Putin left open the possibility that Gershkovich received the material 'out of carelessness', but that his actions definitely 'qualified' as espionage. 'The fact has been proven as he was caught red-handed when he was receiving this information,' he claimed. 'If it had been some farfetched excuse, some fabrication, something not proven, it would have been a different story then. 'But he was caught red handed when he was secretly getting confidential information. What is it then?' Gershkovich, 32, stands inside an enclosure for defendants during a court hearing in Moscow on November 28, when his pre-trial detention was extended for two months Gershkovich leaving court, the last time he was seen, with no end in sight to his detention and no trial date set Gershkovich puts on a brave face as he smiles with guards, right, is escorted from the Lefortovsky court in Moscow The Wall Street Journal, Gershkovich's family, and the White House repeatedly said he was not a spy and was detrained while doing his job as a reporter. President Joe Biden promised to bring him home, and the State Department declared him to be wrongly detained by Russian authorities. Gershkovich is imprisoned at the notorious Lefortovo prison, spending 90 percent of his day cut off from the world in a small cell. On November 28, a Russian court extended his pre-trial detention for another two months, and it is unclear when he will face trial. Carlson asked Putin to clarify if Gershkovich was accused of working for the US Government or NATO - or just received classified information as part of normal journalistic work. Putin first said 'I don't know who he was working for,' before claiming he was 'working for the US special services, some other agencies.' 'But I would like to reiterate that getting classified information in secret is called espionage,' he said, grossly misusing the term. 'He's not just a journalist. I reiterate. He's a journalist who is secretly getting confidential information.' Putin refused to simply release Gershkovich when Carlson asked, saying Russia had 'done so many gestures of goodwill out of decency that I think we have run out of them.' Putin insisted Gershkovich was a spy despite Carlson saying he was 'obviously not a spy, he's a kid... he's not a super spy and everybody knows that' Ella Milman, mother of Gershkovich, and lawyer Tatyana Nozhkina leave after a court hearing to consider an appeal against Gershkovich's detention Gershkovich is imprisoned at the notorious Lefortovo prison, spending 90 per cent of his day cut off from the world in a small cell However, he indicated the wrongfully jailed reporter could 'in theory' be swapped for an imprisoned Russian 'if our partners take reciprocal steps.' 'Special services are in contact with one another. They are talking about the matter in question. There is no taboo to settle this issue,' he said. 'We are willing to solve it but there are certain terms being discussed via special services channels. I believe an agreement can be reached.' 'I do not rule out that the person you refer to, Mr Gershkovich, may return to his motherland.' Putin said it 'does not make any sense' to keep him in prison in Russia, but wanted the US to 'contribute to achieving the goals our special services are pursuing.' 'The talks are underway and there have been many successful examples of these talks crowned with success,' he said. 'Probably this is going to be crowned with success as well. But we have to come to an agreement.' Putin has repeatedly refused to release Gershkovich and another US citizen Paul Whelan, a corporate security executive from Michigan, who has been jailed in Russia since his 2018 arrest on espionage-related charges. Another US citizen Paul Whelan, a corporate security executive from Michigan , has also been jailed in Russia since his 2018 arrest on espionage-related charges Alsu Kurmasheva, a Russian-American journalist for Radio Free Europe, is also detained in Russia, charged with failing to register as a foreign agent He insists they must be traded for something else, such as a Russian imprisoned in the US - as has been done twice in the past 18 months. 'We're not refusing to return them. We want to reach an agreement, and these agreements must be mutually acceptable and suit both parties,' he said in December. Pilot and convicted drug smuggler Konstantin Yaroshenko was released in April 2022 in exchange for Marine veteran Trevor Reed, who was accused of attacking Russian police officers in 2019. WNBA star Brittney Griner, who was being held in Russia on drug smuggling charges, was exchanged in December 2022 for Russian warlord Viktor Bout, who was convicted of trying to kill US citizens on the behalf of Colombian paramilitaries FARC. Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Labrov said in April 2023 that there were around 60 Russian citizens in US custody, 25 of them in federal prisons. Putin rejected an offer from the US in December to exchange Gershkovich and Whelan, the State Department said. 'This was a new proposal, in recent weeks. It was a significant proposal,' spokesman Matthew Miller said. 'And it was rejected by the Russians but it does not, it will not deter us from continuing to do everything we can to try and bring both of them home.' Alsu Kurmasheva, a Russian-American journalist for Radio Free Europe, is also detained in Russia, charged with failing to register as a foreign agent. Russian authorities claimed she 'deliberately conducted a targeted collection of military information about Russian activities via the internet to transmit information to foreign sources.' Gershkovich was born in the US to Russian parents who fled the Soviet Union and arrived in New York in 1979. He worked for the New York Times, Agence France Press, and Moscow Times, reporting almost entirely in Russia, and started at the WSJ in January 2022. Gershkovich lived in Russia for six years and was covering the private military firm Wagner involvement in the war in Ukraine when he was arrested. Four teenagers have been found guilty of murdering 16-year-old Declan Cutler in a Melbourne street attack. Declan was alone walking down a dark street when he was kicked, stomped on and stabbed by a group of eight boys in March 2022. He had just left a party in Reservoir in Melbourne's north and had become separated from his friends. In the early hours of March 13, a stolen Mazda pulled up and the group of boys got out and pounced on Declan. In a two-minute frenzied attack, the group stabbed and kicked him as he lay on the nature strip. The group got back in the car and drove off, but returned briefly to stomp on him again and remove his shoes, before leaving. Declan Cutler bled to death on the ground after suffering 152 injuries, including 56 stab wounds and 66 blunt force injuries Declan bled to death on the ground after suffering 152 injuries, including 56 stab wounds and 66 blunt force injuries. Supreme Court Justice Rita Incerti on Friday found four of the attackers - known under the pseudonyms SA, DM, QDM and SY - guilty of Declan's murder. The boys had gone through a judge-alone trial in December, a couple of months after their 13-year-old co-accused was found to be too young to be held criminally responsible. Three other members of the group were jailed on September 12 for their roles in the killing. A 16-year-old boy, who was the second youngest, was jailed for up to 15 years after pleading guilty to murder. Two 18-year-olds were handed youth detention sentences of three-and-a-half and four years. Britain's biggest police force is 'victim-blaming' children for the abuse they have suffered at the hands of predators, a watchdog warned yesterday. A devastating report has revealed how Scotland Yard is failing to tackle child sex offenders, with officers blaming teenage girls instead for being 'promiscuous', claiming 'it's the child's choice' if they are abused. The report by His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) found vulnerable youngsters are being put at risk because the force 'doesn't effectively understand the nature and scale of child sexual exploitation and child criminal exploitation in London'. Inspectors raised serious concerns about the force's response to missing children, saying officers are 'simply waiting for them to turn up'. In one shocking case, a 15-year-old girl who had been missing for four days reported that she had been raped by various men after police found her with a 21-year-old man. The damning report has put pressure on Met Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley, who came into office on September 2022 The report revealed a 14-year-old girl believed to be involved in class A drug supply had been missing for 20 days before the force decided she was at high risk (stock image) Inspectors found concerned parents begging for help after their children had been missing for days were often fobbed off by officers (stock image) But after seven weeks the case was closed even though officers had failed to examine the suspect's clothing or phone, they made no effort to trace the other men involved and did not examine the victim's phone which she handed over. READ MORE: Met Police's wall of shame: Disgraced cops sacked for gross misconduct in 2023 - from the rookie who shared sick porn to the wannabe stuntman sacked for beating up boy then lying about it David Carrick pled guilty to 24 rapes Advertisement In another instance, a 14-year-old girl believed to be involved in class A drug supply had been missing for 20 days before the force decided she was at high risk. Inspectors found concerned parents begging for help after their children had been missing for days were often fobbed off by officers. One mother who reported the sexual exploitation of her 15-year-old daughter was told to take her child to the GP and ask for a referral to children's social care services. Another mother who offered police evidence that her 14-year-old daughter was being groomed by a man offering her money for sex was told that the victim would have to report the matter herself. When the mother persisted, the report was passed between six officers in a month but nothing was done before the child went missing again. Officers and staff were found to use 'victim-blaming language' in 12 per cent of exploitation cases, with one detective speaking of 'children being promiscuous'. In other cases, a 14-year-old girl was described as 'seeking out sex with older men' and a 12-year-old girl who had been raped was described as 'sexually active with older men'. In more than half of missing cases reviewed when the children were known or believed to be sexually or criminally exploited, inspectors found 'language that implied the missing children were in some way responsible or to blame', with officers using phrases such as 'making poor choices' or 'placing herself at risk'. Inspectors warned of 'a practice and culture in which officers and staff believe children are partially or wholly responsible for the abuse that has happened to them'. In more than half of missing cases reviewed when the children were known or believed to be sexually or criminally exploited, inspectors found 'language that implied the missing children were in some way responsible or to blame', with officers using phrases such as 'making poor choices' or 'placing herself at risk' The report by His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) found vulnerable youngsters are being put at risk because the force 'doesn't effectively understand the nature and scale of child sexual exploitation and child criminal exploitation in London' The report estimated that '12 in every 100 children are being in some way blamed for the abuse they suffered'. Officers often failed to understand the links between missing children and exploitation. There were also critical delays in launching investigations, with many 'missed opportunities' to identify suspects, leaving children exposed to risk, inspectors found. In one case, a 14-year-old girl reported missing by her foster mother was assessed as being at risk of sexual abuse and she was also thought to be exploited by county lines drug gangs. She had been missing many times before and several adult men had been served with child abduction warning notices because of the risk they posed to her. Yet the investigating officer did not grade the case as at high risk because he considered the missing girl 'actively seeks out older men'. Inspectors also found examples of children's names being misspelt and information missing in sloppy investigations. The watchdog has made 11 recommendations for improvement and said the Met must start to follow all reasonable lines of enquiry to identify suspects in child exploitation cases The report concluded: 'The grading of missing children is often incorrect and children are left at risk. 'We reviewed case files on children who had gone missing at least ten times in the previous six months. Usually these involved children who were in care some of the most vulnerable children in London. Almost all cases we reviewed were graded as medium risk, even when there were clear indicators that serious harm was very likely 'Most of the officers and staff we spoke with saw their role in safeguarding children and promoting their welfare as simply submitting a report about it.' One senior leaders told inspectors: 'A lot of people don't see CSE [child sexual exploitation] as a priority, there's a lot of complacency [they] say it's the child's choice.' Making 11 recommendations for improvement, the watchdog said the Met must start to follow all reasonable lines of enquiry to identify suspects in child exploitation cases as well as step up efforts to stop children from going missing and find them quicker. Joanna Barrett, Associate Head of Policy at the NSPCC, said: 'This report paints a very concerning picture of the Metropolitan Police's response to child sexual exploitation. 'Safeguarding the child should be the number one priority in investigations but it's clear this is not always happening. Too often it appears that the needs and experiences of young victims are being side-lined and that children are, unforgivably, being blamed for the abuse they have suffered.' Yesterday the Met apologised to the children and families it had let down and stressed it was taking steps to improve. Commander Kevin Southworth, who lead's the Met's work on public protection, said: 'I'm deeply sorry to the children and families we have let down and want to reassure our communities that we are already taking significant steps to address these recommendations. 'We are putting more police resource into this area and retraining officers to have a better understanding of the complexities of child exploitation so we can continue our work to win back the trust of Londoners.' Asylum-seekers bused from New York City were deceived into traveling to Buffalo last summer, and many found themselves staying in a hotel near Buffalo Niagara International Airport that had unclean conditions, foul odors and inadequate amenities, according to a civil lawsuit filed Thursday in federal court in Manhattan. Stained mattresses were infested with insects, with children living there repeatedly bitten across their bodies, according to the complaint filed by asylum-seekers and past or current employees of Platinum Community Care, one of the organizations assisting migrants at the hotel. The lawsuit also alleges some asylum-seekers were sexually exploited by several members of the National Guard, sent to act as a stabilizing presence, and staffers for DocGo, the company hired by New York City to oversee the transport of asylum-seekers to upstate locations. Last summer, hundreds of asylum-seekers were sent to Western New York from New York City when the city began running out of room for the tens of thousands of asylees sent from the countrys southern border. They were all sheltered at three hotels in Cheektowaga when they first arrived. Several members of the National Guard and DocGo employees danced intimately and romantically kissed asylum-seekers, according to the lawsuit, which was first reported by the New York Times. The employee plaintiffs who observed this were astonished, and again expressed concerns to senior staff, according to the lawsuit. But no action was taken, and the inappropriate relationships became more part of accepted daily life. One of the plaintiffs, Alexander Vizcaino, a Venezuelan migrant, told the New York Times he was evicted from the Quality Inn hotel after a physical encounter with a GoDoc employee and slept next to a gas station dumpster for three days in November. Named as defendants are the New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs; DocGo; Deven Colon, a sergeant in the National Guard; and about a dozen unnamed DocGo or National Guard members. The thing I see most is anger toward these people, to the migrants and asylum-seekers, said Nathan McMurray, one of the two lawyers who filed the lawsuit on the plaintiffs behalf. And theyre vilified as an invading army. But the reality is, by far and large, these are families, children, moms, who are young and very, very vulnerable. They were under the care of the government and by the New York State National Guard, McMurray said. The duty they had was was not only not reached, it was grossly violated, he said. Regardless of how they came, every human being deserves respect, he said. Colon, accused of having sex with a Venezuelan woman, confirmed to the New York Times that he was being investigated by the Guards New York military division. Colon told the Times that his superiors told him there were allegations, some sexual, against multiple soldiers and youre involved. Colon denied having a sexual encounter with any migrant. The Guards New York military division said in a written statement to the Times that those who violated rules or the law would face consequences. If allegations are substantiated following an investigation, this can result in adverse administrative and/or disciplinary actions pursuant to regulation and New York State military law, Eric Durr, a Guard spokesman, said in a statement to the Times. Criminal activities are referred to law enforcement for appropriate action. On one occasion, Colon took a Venezuelan woman and her children to a rental property nearly two hours away for fun, family time, according to the lawsuit. Once there, he demanded sexual favors in exchange for his assistance to her and her family, according to the lawsuit. The woman, who had journeyed through jungles with her children, evaded sexual traffickers in Mexico, and crossed rivers, suddenly found herself in a snow-covered rural property in America where she was totally isolated with her children, facing pressure from a member of the NY National Guard for sex. She felt she had no choice but to engage in sexual activity with him, according to the lawsuit. The lawsuit seeks no less than $9 million in damages for battery, false imprisonment, deprivation of rights and infliction of emotional distress among other causes of action. Advocates for Justice Chartered Attorneys, a public interest law firm in New York, represents the plaintiffs. Rebecca Agheli was camping when she saw missing mum Samantha Murphy run past on the day before she vanished A camper who saw missing mother Samantha Murphy run past her 24 hours before she disappeared has told of a frightening encounter she had with a 'dishevelled man' in the bush just days earlier. Rebecca Agheli and her partner, Michael, rented a caravan for a long weekend trip to Ballarat on a goldhunting excursion near Woowookarung Regional Park, arriving on February 1. Ms Murphy disappeared in the regional park after setting off from her home just after 7am on Sunday, February 4, and no trace of her has been found since. Police last night said they would be scaling back the search for the missing mum-of-three, in a devastating blow for her family. Ms Agheli said she only found out this Thursday that Ms Murphy had disappeared, and pieced together that she had seen her run past their campsite on the Saturday morning before she vanished. CREEPY ENCOUNTER BEFORE MUM VANISHED When they arrived on February 1, about 15 minutes from the state forest, Ms Agheli got ready for their gold hunt while her partner scoped out the area. He quickly returned to their car after seeing a strange man. 'He's a big guy, he's not usually scared of anything, but he told me he'd seen a strange, dishevelled man pop out of the bush talking to himself with the crotch on his pants ripped,' she told Daily Mail Australia. Ms Murphy had disappeared in the Woowookarung Regional Park after setting off from her home just after 7am on Sunday and no trace of her has been found since The 51-year-old has been missing for six days with police calling in homicide detectives to aid in the investigation The couple decided to pack up and go to another area, which Ms Agheli guesses was about a seven-minute drive away. She said her partner had warned her of mine shafts in the area and suggested they go elsewhere, but Ms Agheli wanted to have a quick look and wandered a short distance away from the car. 'Then I saw the same guy again even after we'd just driven about seven minutes,' she said. 'His whole face lit up when he saw a woman on his own. READ MORE: Victoria Police bring in homicide detectives in search for Ms Murphy Advertisement 'I was thinking, "how did this guy get here so fast, he must know a shortcut". He had both of his hands behind his back and started walking towards me really fast.' Ms Agheli said she then called out to the man to ask if there was any gold in the area, loud enough so her partner could hear. Michael immediately ran over to Ms Agheli. She said the man quickly put his hands in his pockets and fled into the bush. Ms Agheli described the man as white with mid-length hair. She suspects he may have had a mental disability. The couple then drove 15 minutes away to the lookout in the Woowookarung Regional Park where they camped overnight on Thursday and Friday last week. Both Ms Agheli and her boyfriend said they heard strange sounds overnight on Friday, prompting Michael to even sleep with a cheese knife under his pillow. 'On Saturday morning Michael said ''I don't feel comfortable here, we should go, I kept hearing things last night, let's pack up and go'',' she said. 'It takes a lot for a man to be scared.' Ms Murphy (pictured) was well-known as a keen athlete who visited the forest almost daily THE MOMENT THE COUPLE SAW MS MURPHY RUN PAST THEIR CAMPSITE Before the couple left the state forest they saw Ms Murphy run past, with the mother-of-three wishing them a good morning. Ms Agheli has spoken to detectives looking into Ms Murphy's case about what she saw. Michael also lost his Apple Watch and Ms Agheli said she had been told by police it last pinged in a similar area to where Ms Murphy's phone had also pinged in the nearby suburb of Buninyong. Ms Agheli is hoping what she saw may help in the investigation into Ms Murphy's whereabouts. 'I'm worried that something similar might happen to somebody else,' she said. 'That was my first camping trip and I'll never go there again.' HORRIFIC ATTACK AT NEARBY FOREST IN FEBRUARY Last February, Sissy Austin, 29, was battered unconscious by an unknown man as she jogged through nearby Lal Lal State Forest. Ms Austin was running along the motorbike track through woodland, just 20km from where Ms Murphy was jogging, when she was suddenly confronted by the stranger. She just caught a glimpse of him before he lashed out and struck her on the head with a rock tied to the end of a stick. The blow knocked her out cold and left her face bruised and bloodied, before she woke up minutes later, dazed but alone. She said her attacker was a white male. Nobody has been charged over the attack. Sissy Austin posted photos of herself before and after last year's attack by a man armed with a rock tied to a stick THE LATEST Late on Friday, Victoria Police confirmed the 'current phase of the active search' for Ms Murphy would be scaled back over the weekend. 'An extensive six-day search has been conducted involving local police, along with personnel from the search and rescue squad, mounted branch and dog squad, plus significant assistance from members of the SES and CFA,' a statement read. 'Police continue to be in regular contact with Samantha's family regarding the developments of the search and the status of the investigation. 'The investigative stage of the investigation continues and as any new information comes to hand identifying areas of interest, the search will be scaled up.' Specialist teams will continue to search despite volunteers being scaled back over the weekend. After an extensive search of the surrounding area produced no leads, detectives from the missing persons squad were handed control of the investigation on Friday. 'While no sinister factors have been identified in her disappearance at this time, there are significant concerns given it has now been six days without her being sighted or any signs of her current whereabouts,' police said in a statement. SES volunteers are seen scouring farmland as the search for Ms Murphy enters its sixth day The squad will have the ability to expand resourcing from specialist investigative units across the crime command. 'It is especially concerning that we have now gone six days without any contact from her or any potential sightings,' Detective Acting Superintendent Mark Hatt said in a statement. It comes less than 24 hours after Acting Inspector Lisa McDougall told media the disappearance was not being treated as suspicious. 'There are no suspicious circumstances that we've identified at this stage,' she said. But police insist her disappearance is still not being treated as 'sinister'. 'We haven't received any information relating to her movements from the moment she left [her] home address on Sunday morning,' Detective Acting Superintendent Mark Hatt said on Friday morning. Detective Hatt added missing persons investigators had more resources and experts that could help with the search. 'There will certainly be additional detectives from crime command attending the Ballarat area today and in coming days,' he said. The focus has moved to the town of Buninyong, 15 minutes south of Ballarat. Anyone who may have driven through the area with dashcam footage from 7am to 7pm on Sunday is being asked to come forward. When is a pledge not a pledge? Answer: When it is made by Sir Keir Starmer. You'd almost need a calculator to tot up the number of policy reversals he's made since becoming Labour leader. But the latest is the biggest. When he and shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves pledged to splurge 28billion a year on making Britain a green superpower, it was trumpeted as their party's flagship idea. Throwing money at renewables technology, factories making electric car batteries and a publicly owned giant energy company would boost growth, jobs and the battle against climate change. It all sounded spectacularly worthy. But at no point did Labour offer a credible explanation of how such vast spending would be financed. Then someone did the maths. Sir Keir Starmer pictured with Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves in the background Yesterday, Sir Keir performed a humiliating U-turn but insisted his party would still decarbonise the power grid by 2030. How he plans to achieve that is anyone's guess. Labour will now spend 4.7billion a year on green investment. But it's optimistic to think vast revenues will come from windfall taxes on the oil and gas giants when the party has vowed to end North Sea drilling. Predictably, Sir Keir attempted to deflect blame for his eco-strategy collapsing. The Tories' handling of the nation's finances, he said, meant it was no longer affordable. That is a pathetic excuse. Every dog on the street knew it was fantasy economics the moment Labour announced the plan. This is a crushing blow to his credibility. If he'll ditch his flagship policy for political expediency, what else will he capitulate on? Could the real reason he changes his mind so often be that he doesn't really believe in anything? Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer during a visit to Whitelees windfarm in 2021 Apart from wanting to tax private schools into extinction and raise a trivial amount by ending non-domicile tax status for wealthy foreigners, what is his big idea? For all his bluster about financial responsibility, we know from experience that Labour's answer to everything is tax, borrow and spend. That is unlikely to change. Only the most gullible would take him at his word. The truth is that voting for Sir Keir would be a perilous leap in the dark. Brussels busybodies Even though it's four years since we left the EU, that hasn't stopped Brussels attempting to interfere in our affairs. This time, the bloc has warned it might start a trade war with Britain, claiming Rishi Sunak's crackdown on strikes potentially breaches the Brexit deal. What supreme arrogance. If we want to take sensible measures to get the British public to work or staff our hospitals through bouts of irresponsible industrial action, who are they to say we can't? Indeed, many member states themselves have anti-strike rules to keep public services running. And anyway, no one in the UK is bothering to deploy them. This kind of high-handedness and obsessive meddling is why we quit the EU in the first place. And how right we were. The anti-business boss Who said this? 'To fund our public services, we must keep large-scale tax cuts off the table.' A Left-wing Labour MP? No, astonishingly, it's Rain Newton-Smith, the chief executive of the Confederation of British Industry. Rain Newton-Smith, the chief executive of the Confederation of British Industry In a speech, she warned the Chancellor against 'pre-election giveaways' in the Budget. For an organisation which lobbies on behalf of British firms, this is an extraordinary statement. The high tax burden is throttling business. Lowering it would encourage investment, spending and growth and generate more Treasury revenue for public services. The CBI is already discredited after a sex scandal. Ms Newton-Smith's opposition to tax cuts suggests its battered reputation isn't likely to improve any time soon. A couple in Arizona had their dream wedding shut down by authorities after neighbors complained about the loud music and dancing - and they aren't the first. Holliann Tran and her husband chose to have their special day at Wrangler's Roost in New River, which is advertised as a place that hosts private events. But their wedding was shut down by the Maricopa County Sheriffs Office in November 2022 just 10 minutes into their reception and now coming to light. Bodycam footage from the night of the incident shows Tran, standing in her wedding dress, in tears as the deputies came to put a stop to the event. 'My dad came up to me and was like, "You need to come to the front,"' she told KPNX. 'And they said, "We have to shut it down."' County officials revealed the venue does not have an events permit and there have been 61 complaints since July 2021. Owners Heidi and Reid Stewart have allegedly racked up at least $70,000 in fines. A couple in Arizona had their dream wedding shut down by authorities after neighbors complained about the loud music and dancing Holliann Tran and her husband chose to have their special day at Wrangler's Roost in New River, which is advertised as a place that hosts private events But their wedding was shutdown by the Maricopa County Sheriffs Office in November 2022 just 10 minutes into their reception Tran was enjoying a dance at her wedding before the sheriff's deputies arrived to shut it down after noise complaints. Bodycam footage of the incident shows Tran crying once they were told to pack up and leave. She was being consoled by her father and husband at the front of the property - where deputies said the venue is not in a properly zoned location and officers could hear the music from 1,600 feet away. 'I was just so sad. I just I really just cried all night,' Tran said. 'The police were like, we have to shut it down. And I was like youre joking, this cant be real. 'And they said, no, you rented a venue thats not actually a venue and I just start instantly bawling.' Tran quickly knew she wanted to have her wedding at the venue after a visit. 'Its a gorgeous place. Just the desert scenery is really, really beautiful,' Tran told AZ Family. 'I thought it would be a really place for everybody to meet in the middle and we found a venue that would allow parties. 'Ive seen pictures of the weddings, theyve showed us pictures of other people getting married.' But, Sergeant Joaquin Enriquez, with the Maricopa County Sheriffs Office, said Wrangler's Roost does not have an events permit. Bodycam footage from the night of the incident shows Tran, in her wedding dress, in tears as the deputies came to put a stop to the event 'The owners of this property are running a business out of what should be their residential home because its not zoned for commercial,' he said. Heidi and Reid Stewart, the facility's owners, were reportedly ordered to stop advertising or hosting any commercial business on the property without a special use permit in 2021. They were fined $750, plus $75 for each day they continued to operate and this has totaled $70,000 in fines so far, according to records. 'Since about July of 2021, there has been 61 calls for service. You may say is that a lot? That is a lot of time and resources that we have dedicated to this problem,' Enriquez said. Resident Marko Dapevich moved to the area in order to escape the noise from the city but claims he has constantly been dealing with loud music and bright lights on the weekends. 'The noise is remarkable. We can play name that tune in our bedroom at 10 oclock at night,' he said. 'The sheriffs office has recorded mid 60s decibels inside our home.' He lives close to the Wranglers Roost and can see it from his property. Dapevich is frustrated at the lack of action with noise complaints and filed a civil lawsuit to ask for an injunction. 'The county has not enforced it, the sheriffs deputies have not enforced it, nor have the enforced the zoning code,' he said. 'So after several years of this, I felt the only option we had to make a stop was to file a civil suit and ask for an injunction. 'Its a bit of a conundrum, because you dont want to ruin somebodys wedding,' Dapevich added. Tran was enjoying a dance at her wedding before the sheriff deputies arrived to shut it down after noise complaints County officials revealed the venue does not have an events permit and there have been 61 complaints since July 2021. Owners Heidi and Reid Stewart have allegedly racked up at least $70,000 in fines 'Thats one special day for them, but for us and the other hundreds of people that are within sound range of that it goes on and on and on.' Tran said she just wanted to enjoy her special day. 'To me, cool, lets plan the ceremony. To me the whole point was to plan the party, to plan the dance,' she said. 'It looked like an actual, legal venue until the cops showed up.' She contacted the owners of the venue who allegedly told her to turn the music back on, but were forced to send everyone home. Text messages of the exchange were shared with local news outlets. The couple had paid $10,000 in order to rent the venue for their wedding. 'It is your money, it is your hard work that youre out for that day, and its also for me, the people who traveled all over the country,' Tran said. The Stewarts refunded part of their money but the newlyweds were still left with unpleasant memories. 'You plan your whole life for this special day, and then for somebody to take it away, its just really disheartening,' Tran said. 'I would never want this to happen to anybody else.' DailyMail.com has contacted Wrangler's Roost for comment. Her husband Mick was seen outside police station on Friday Friends and family of missing mum-of-three Samantha Murphy will be probed as the investigation into her disappearance is handed over to Victoria' Police's elite Missing Persons Unit. Ms Murphy, 51, left her home on Eureka Street in East Ballarat, north-west of Melbourne, to go for a run in Woowookarung Regional Park just after 7am on Sunday and has not been seen since. On Friday, Detective Acting Superintendent Mark Hatt told reporters detectives would now look into Ms Murphy's movements and interactions with others in the days before she vanished. Michael Murphy, the husband of missing mum Samantha Murphy has been pictured leaving Buninyong Police Station 'Absolutely, that will be a huge part of our investigation. Digging into the background, working out Samantha's movements in the days leading up to her disappearance and also double-so the people who know her,' he said. Part of the investigation - now dubbed Operation Primus - will see detectives trawl through Ms Murphy's computers and devices in the hope of finding clues. Superintendent Hatt said police were still working to ascertain who may have been in the area where Ms Murphy's phone lost communication with mobile phone towers. Her mobile phone had pinged in the nearby suburb of Buninyong before going dark. Superintendent Hatt said detectives were still working with phone companies to obtain data that might prove vital to shedding some light on the investigation. 'At this stage we can't share any information to that regard. We are still working with our telecommunication technicians to establish phone movements and who was in the area at the time,' he said. Detectives still remain puzzled about where Ms Murphy went upon leaving her home. CCTV footage showing Ms Murphy outside her home was the last confirmed sighting of her alive. Family remembers reported her missing after she failed to arrive for a brunch scheduled for that morning. 'I can also confirm that we have not identified any suspicious or sinister circumstances, however we do hold significant concerns for Samantha's welfare at this stage and that is growing as the days progress,' Superintendent Hatt said. Detective Acting Superintendent Mark Hatt (left) addressed a media pack outside Ballarat West Police Station on Friday He spent just an hour inside the station before leaving with an officer, who escorted him to his car Samantha Murphy, 51, left her home on Eureka Street in East Ballarat, north-west of Melbourne , to go for a run in Woowookarung Regional Park just after 7am on Sunday Superintendent Hatt said specialised police would flood the area in the desperate search for clues. 'In the coming days you'll see additional detectives working around the area,' he said. Just hours earlier, Mr Murphy smiled after meeting with detectives at Buninyong Police Station. He spent just an hour inside the station before leaving with an officer, who escorted him to his car. Mr Murphy appeared casual as a waiting media pack photographed him. The station is being used by emergency services units as the headquarters for its ongoing search for Ms Murphy. Victoria Police Inspector Bob Heaney said detectives were relying on information coming from the public to help track down Ms Murphy's whereabouts. 'You know, one of the challenges we have is the area where she normally runs, it's a fairly remote area,' he told Sunrise on Friday morning. 'It's within a forest and a lot of bushland and there is no CCTV coverage out there. That's been one of the challenges we've had to face.' Desperation grows as search enters sixth day One line of inquiry was officially ruled out on Thursday after police confirmed a woman pictured in CCTV was not Ms Murphy, as previously stated. Victoria Police had released CCTV footage on Wednesday which showed a person heading in a north-easterly direction toward Yankee Flat Road, near the intersection of Warrenheip Road. The woman was believed to have been Ms Murphy heading out for a 20km run through the state forest. Police and SES are seen combing through the Woowookarang National Park However, another runner came forward to reveal she was the person pictured. Inspector Heaney said the discovery had 'eliminated' a possible route Ms Murphy may have taken after she left home. He added police were still treating her disappearance as not suspicious, despite homicide detectives from the missing persons squad reportedly joining the search on Friday. 'Apart from covering a lot of terrain, a lot of area that we've physically searched looking for Samantha, we don't know a hell of a lot more,' he said. 'A lot of the information has come in (from the public) which we need to filter through which then allows us to review that and focus on where we need to search next.' The search for Ms Murphy has now entered its sixth day CCTV of a woman believed to be Ms Murphy was later found to be another resident in the area Inspector Heaney confirmed Ms Murphy was wearing an Apple watch and had her phone with her at the time she vanished, but said the area police were able to track from her devices was 'limited'. In another setback on Wednesday, officers were alerted to 'items' possibly related to Ms Murphy's disappearance, however, it was later determined they did not belong to the missing mother. Locals in the area have also raised concerns the mother may have fallen in an abandoned mine shaft, which can be difficult to see on the forest floor. Distraught daughter calls for help to bring her mother home Earlier on Thursday, Ms Murphy's eldest daughter Jessica and husband Michael, issued a desperate plea for their loved one to return home. Through tears, Jessica urged the public to continue searching for her mum. 'Mum, we love you so much and we miss you and we need you at home with us, please come home soon, I can't wait to see you,' Jessica told reporters. 'Mum's a really strong woman, and she's far too determined to give up this fight.' Jessica's father thanked the community for their support in recent days as he appealed for answers. 'People just don't vanish into thin air,' Mr Murphy said. 'Someone has got to know something ... whether it be any little thing that you might think is relevant, just call the police, let them know. 'It'll give us a bit of peace of mind if we get some hope.' Russian military jets have been detected near Alaska for the second time in three days, just miles from the coast. North American Aerospace Defense Command spotted the two planes on Thursday, after four other Russian aircraft, including two bombers, were detected on Tuesday. The Russian aircraft remained in international airspace and did not enter American or Canadian sovereign airspace, NORAD said. 'This Russian activity in the Alaska ADIZ occurs regularly and is not seen as a threat,' NORAD said. The Alaska Air Defense Identification Zone is a stretch of international airspace that spans 150 miles from the US coastline. The Russian aircraft remained in international airspace and did not enter American or Canadian sovereign airspace, NORAD said (stock photo of a Tupolev Tu-160 RF-94109) All aircraft that enter the zone are required to identify themselves in the interests of national security. NORAD uses satellites, ground and airborne radar, fighter jets to detect and track aircraft that enter the area. Russia earlier issued a press release about a long-range training flight by bombers to the Arctic that could explain the sighting of the warplanes. 'The flight was carried out in strict accordance with international rules for the use of airspace,' Lieutenant General Sergei Kobylash said, per the Russian Ministry of Defense. 'Long-range aviation pilots regularly fly over the neutral waters of the Arctic, North Atlantic, Black and Baltic Seas, and the Pacific Ocean.' Tensions between the US and Russia are heightened amid the war in Ukraine and widening conflicts in the Middle East. Defense experts warned global tensions have not been as intense since at least the 1970s. Coupled with the conflicts in Europe and the Red Sea, there were concerns China could invade Taiwan. Russian President Vladimir Putin had to control his wandering leg during his interview with Tucker Carlson - amid rumors that his health is on the decline. In the two-hour interview with the former Fox News host released Thursday, Putin had to use his hand to calm his leg and stop it from moving. The 71-year-old Russian president also coughed and cleared his throat several times while making bombshell claims such as Russia has superior 'supersonic missiles' to every other nation and Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich is a 'spy.' Some critics questioned Putin's health ahead of the interview when the leader was pictured making grimaces during a meeting with Belarusian President Lukashenko on January 28, saying he appeared confused. The Kremlin has repeatedly denied rumors that Putin has serious health problems such as suffering cardiac arrest in the fall or that he has cancer and uses body doubles. Russian President Vladimir Putin had to use his hand to calm his jittery leg and stop it from moving The 71-year-old Russian president also coughed and cleared his throat several times while making bombshell claims during the talk In October, the General SVR Telegram channel, which regularly alleges Putin is terminally ill with cancer, alleged he suffered a 'cardiac arrest.' The channel said all recent appearances by the Russian dictator, including foreign visits, have been by a body double or doubles. It claimed that doctors resuscitated Putin and he was taken to a special intensive care facility at his official residence. 'Doctors performed resuscitation, having previously determined that the president was in cardiac arrest,' reported the channel. 'Help was provided on time, the heart was started and Putin regained consciousness.' Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, 'Everything is fine with him, this is absolutely another fake [rumor].' 'These [kinds of stories] belong to the category of fake news, discussed with enviable tenacity by a number of media outlets. This brings nothing but a smile [in the Kremlin].' Some critics questioned Putin's health ahead of the interview when the leader was pictured making grimaces during a meeting with Belarusian President Lukashenko on January 28 In October, the General SVR Telegram channel, which regularly alleges Putin is terminally ill with cancer, alleged he suffered a 'cardiac arrest' When Putin made a surprise visit to the city of Derbent in southern Russia just days after the failed Wagner rebellion in June, his interactions led some to believe he was using a body double. In 2022, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, leaked spy documents claimed Putin had early-stage Parkinson's disease and pancreatic cancer. The leaked documents allegedly read: 'I can confirm he has been diagnosed with early-stage Parkinson's disease, but it's already progressing. This fact will be denied in every possible way and hidden. 'Putin is regularly stuffed with all kinds of heavy steroids and innovative painkilling injections to stop the spread of pancreatic cancer he was recently diagnosed with. 'It not only causes a lot of pain, Putin has a state of puffiness of the face and other side effects - including memory lapses.' Despite questions surrounding the 71-year-olds health, many people on X, formerly known as Twitter, thought the Russian president appeared in good health during his interview with Carlson. One user named Calvin said, 'Didnt they say Putin had cancer and was in very poor health? Seems pretty good to me.' 'Putin sure does look healthy to me. What about all that chatter about his health,' said user Rick Teed. Vladimir Putin's interview with Tucker Carlson was packed full of bombshell revelations. But equally shocking were his outrageous claims on several controversial topics that went virtually unchallenged by his host. During the two-hour-and-seven-minute interview the Russian leader bounced from one outlandish claim to the next, including suggesting that Poland started WWII and that the CIA blew up the Nord Stream pipelines. His unchecked remarks came during the hotly anticipated interview that dropped on Thursday evening. Americans were warned 'not to believe anything' by White House Communications Coordinator John Kirby prior to its release. But it seems the advice went over Carlson's head as he refused to probe several wild claims. Here DailyMail.com breaks down some of the misinformation peddled by the Russian leader. During the two-hour-and-seven minute interview Russian president Vladimir Putin bounced from one outlandish claim to the next, including suggesting that Poland started WWII and that the CIA blew up the Nord Stream pipelines Poland started WW2 At first, Putin appeared to demonstrate a thorough grasp his region's history, with Carlson even praising his 'encyclopedic knowledge.' But when it came to World War II, his understanding appeared to be somewhat skewed. The Russian leader blamed Poland for starting the global conflict by working with German leader Adolf Hitler. He cited Germany's invasion of Poland as evidence it was to blame. 'So before World War 2, Poland collaborated with Hitler,' Putin stated. 'And although it did not yield to Hitler's demands, it still participated in the partitioning of Czechoslovakia together with Hitler, as the Poles had not given the Danzig corridor to Germany, and went too far, pushing Hitler to start World War 2 by attacking them. The Russian leader blamed Poland for starting the global conflict by working with German leader Adolf Hitler. He cited Germany's invasion of Poland as evidence it was to blame In reality, historians attribute the start of the World War II to the Nazis' decision to invade neighboring countries due to Hitler's aggressive expansionism. Pictured: Hitler shortly after the invasion of Poland in 1939 'Why was it Poland against whom the war started, on 1st September 1939? Poland turned out to be uncompromising, and Hitler had nothing to do but start implementing his plans with Poland.' In reality, historians attribute the start of the World War II to the Nazis' decision to invade neighboring countries due to Hitler's aggressive expansionism. His decision to invade Poland came after he sent troops to occupy Austria and annexed Czechoslovakia without reproach from the international community, which many feel paved the way for his later invasion. Russia 'owns' Ukraine One of Putin's major justifications for the war in Ukraine is his fundamental belief the country belongs to Russia. He cited the creation of the USSR as the point of establishment of Ukraine. 'After the victory in the Great Patriotic War, as we call World War II, and all those territories were ultimately enshrined as belonging to Russia, to the USSR,' Putin explained. One of Putin's major justifications for the war in Ukraine is his fundamental belief the country belongs to Russia In reality, Ukraine declared its independence from Russia in 1991 after the collapse of the USSR. Historically the country has also been ruled by Lithuania and Poland, neither of which are attempting to exercise claims over the country. Pictured: A couple walks near the rubble of destroyed buildings in Kupiansk, Kharkiv region, of Ukraine 'As for Poland, it received, apparently in compensation, the lands which had originally been German. The eastern parts of Germany. These are now western lands of Poland. Of course, Poland regained access to the Baltic Sea and Danzig. 'Which was once again given its Polish name. So this was how this situation developed. 'In 1922 when the USSR was being established, the Bolsheviks started building the USSR and established the Soviet Ukraine, which had never existed before.' In reality, Ukraine declared its independence from Russia in 1991 after the collapse of the USSR. Historically the country has also been ruled by Lithuania and Poland, neither of which are attempting to exercise claims over the country. However, Carlson's only response to the 30-minute monologue - 'Right.' Ukraine is a satellite for the US 'Ukraine is obviously a satellite state of the US,' Putin declared. 'It is evident. I do not want you to take it as if I am looking for a strong word or an insult.' The Russian leader cited the US' ongoing financial support to the war-torn country as evidence for his claim. The Russian leader cited the US' ongoing financial support to the war-torn country as evidence for his claim that Ukraine is a satellite of the US But while Ukraine's president Vlodomyr Zelenskyy has thanked the USA for its $75 billion in support, he has emphasized the conflict is about Ukrainian sovereignty. Pictured Zelenskyy addressing Congress in 2022 Zelenskyy is pictured in the Oval Office with President Joe Biden during a visit to Washington, DC, in December 2023 'Dozens of billions of US dollars are going to Ukraine. There's a huge influx of weapons,' Putin said. But while Ukraine's president Vlodomyr Zelenskyy has thanked the USA for its $75 billion in support, he has emphasized the conflict is about Ukrainian sovereignty. 'For me as the president, just peace is no compromises as to the sovereignty, freedom and territorial integrity of my country. The payback for all the damages inflicted by Russian aggression," Zelenskyy said in December 2022. CIA blew up Nord Stream The culprit for the Nord Stream gas pipeline explosions has been hotly contested since they were hit in September 2022. The attack came as Europe attempted to wean itself off Russian energy sources following the Kremlins full-scale invasion of Ukraine and contributed to tensions that followed the start of the war. But Putin was unequivocal in laying the blame squarely on the shoulders of the CIA. When Carlson asked the Russian president who blew up Nord Stream, he responded:, 'You for sure.' 'I was busy that day. I did not blow up Nord Stream. Thank you though,' Carlson joked. Putin said, 'You personally may have an alibi, but the CIA has no such alibi.' Carlson then asked if he had any evidence that NATO or the CIA was responsible for the attack, but Putin refused to provide any. 'You know, I won't get into details, but people always say in such cases, look for someone who is interested,' said Putin. Putin was unequivocal in laying the blame squarely on the shoulders of the CIA for the explosions of the Nord Stream Pipeline 'But in this case, we should not only look for someone who is interested, but also for someone who has capabilities, because there may be many people interested, but not all of them are capable of sinking to the bottom of the Baltic Sea and carrying out this explosion.' 'These two components should be connected. Who is interested and who is capable of doing it,' the Russian president said. Tucker pressed Putin, 'If you had evidence and presumably given your security services or Intel services, you would that NATO, the US, CIA, the West did this, why wouldn't you present it and win a propaganda victory?' 'In the war of propaganda, it is very difficult to defeat the United States because the United States controls all the world's media and many European media,' Putin replied. The United States government has staunchly denied claims of involvement in the attack on the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines. Suspicion has fallen most strongly on Ukraine, where officials had opposed the project for years claiming it would empower Russia by enabling it to sell more gas to Europe. These are the shocking videos that appear to show Russia on fire - just as Tucker Carlson's interview with Vladimir Putin was being broadcast. Flames can be seen ripping through a six-storey building in Moscow, with the roof entirely engulfed in flames. Sparks can be seen flying down onto snowy streets, with fire engines lined up outside. The building - which appears to be a huge apartment block in the north west of the city, 10 miles from the Kremlin - has been entirely overtaken by the blazes. Hundreds of residents are said to have been evacuated as social media footage showed a helicopter dumping a huge deluge of water on the blaze, but failing to quell the fire. One video, which shows the blaze, claims to overhear a resident saying: 'House on fire. They didn't put it out for half an hour. Finally they do. Flames can be seen ripping through a Moscow six-storey building, with the roof entirely engulfed in flames. Sparks can be seen flying down onto snowy streets, with fire engines lined up outside Hundreds of residents are said to have been evacuated as social media footage showed a helicopter dumping a huge deluge of water on the blaze 'But it's already over. It's... our house is f*****.' The building also appears to house shops, with cafes, a hearing aid practitioners and a lawyer all listing it as their base. Ambulances and police vehicles could be seen at the scene alongside fire engines with crane attachments. Wider views of the city showed the skyline lit up in orange, as flames rose high above the buildings. It comes as Vladimir Putin slammed the west during a much anticipated sit-down interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson. The two-hour show was posted on Carlson's website, the Tucker Carlson Network, shortly before 6pm on Thursday. Mr Putin was allowed to drone on unchallenged for long chunks of time as he gave a rambling history lesson about Russia dating back to the year 800. The 70-year-old despot outrageously claimed he was ready to sign a deal to end the war with Ukraine 18 months ago but Boris Johnson scuppered the deal. The building appears to be a huge apartment block in the north west of the city, 10 miles from the Kremlin The building also appears to house shops, with cafes, a hearing aid practitioners and a lawyer all listing it as their base Wider views of the city showed the skyline lit up in orange, as flames rose high above the buildings Tucker Carlson's hotly anticipated interview with Vladimir Putin saw a number of bombshell claims READ MORE: White House tells Americans not to believe 'ANYTHING' Putin says in Tucker Carlson interview and says Americans wholeheartedly support Ukraine aid Advertisement He also said it was 'out of the question' for Russia to invade Poland or Latvia - claiming they 'simply don't have any interest' in expanding the war in Ukraine. It is the first time Putin has spoken with an American journalist since before Russia's invasion of Ukraine nearly two years ago. The Kremlin said Putin agreed to the Carlson interview because the approach of the former Fox News host differed from the 'one-sided' reporting of the Ukraine conflict by many Western news outlets. Throughout the interview Putin was bizarrely twisting his left foot reigniting speculation about the dictator's health. The Kremlin leader has been dogged by claims of declining health since long before he ordered his invasion of Ukraine But in the 18 months since, rumours have only intensified as the war appears to have taken its toll. Other footage from meetings and appearances has shown Putin gripping a table for support, tapping his feet seemingly uncontrollably, and looking unsteady as he walked. In September Putin appeared to be struggling with a twitching leg in a meeting with Kim Jong Un. Carlson, 54, announced that he would be interviewing the Russian leader earlier this week, with the interview set to go live tonight on X at 6pm Putin boasted that Russia 'created hypersonic systems' which are now 'ahead of everyone' during the sit down with Tucker Carlson As the leaders sat down at a Russian space base for talks, video footage shows Putin repeatedly raising and lowering his left foot as his knee collapses inward - a motion he repeats in the Carlson interview. Putin later adjusted his position in the chair but his left foot appeared to continue erratically flexing as the North Korean leader told him he was fighting a 'sacred war' with the West and their two countries would together battle with 'imperialism'. Carlson is considered to have close connections to former U.S. President Donald Trump, who is expected to be the Republican Party candidate in the November presidential election. Trump has called for a de-escalation of the war in Ukraine and has complained about the billions of dollars in aid sent so far. However, the Biden administration has strongly backed Ukraine and President Volodymyr Zelensky. An 'English-speaking' man armed with an axe and a knife was shot dead in a police raid after taking a train hostage in Switzerland. The situation unfolded in Essert-Sous-Champvent in the west of Switzerland on Thursday night from around 6:35pm to 10:30pm local time (5.35pm to 9.30pm GMT). A total of 15 hostages were taken which included 14 passengers and the conductor. But fortunately, the hostages were released safely after the hostage-taker was killed, authorities said. Police block a road leading to a train station in Essert-Sous-Champvent, western Switzerland Member of the forensic police officers inspect the inside of a train, where passengers travelling from Yverdon to Sainte-Croix A Swiss Gendarme Police officer inspects the inside of a train. Luckily, all the hostages were released safely The man was shot dead by police after allegedly rushing towards an officer with the axe. According to Vaud canton police spokesman Jean-Christophe Sauterel at a press briefing, the hostage-taker was speaking Farsi and English. 'At this stage of the investigation, the motives of the perpetrator are not known,' he said. He added that the hostage-taker's identity was still not officially confirmed and checks were being carried out. The train was travelling from Yverdon to Sainte-Croix. Donald Trump scored his third straight primary contest victory on Thursday as the U.S. Virgin Islands count showed the former president with 74 percent of the vote. Nikki Haley again lost to Trump, earning just 26 percent in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The ex-president is also expected to soar to victory in Nevada's caucuses on Thursday evening with nearly no competitors except for longshot hopeful and Texas-based businessman and pastor Ryan Binkley. Trump lauded his Virgin Islands victory as he landed in Las Vegas, Nevada to attend a caucus night party at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino. Former President Donald Trump won the presidential primary caucuses in the U.S. Virgin Islands on Thursday with 74% of the vote as he prepares to also walk away with a victory in Nevada just hours later. A video of the former president played for those in St. Thomas gathered to hear the results 'I want to thank you all. We had a tremendous victory,' Trump said during brief virtual remarks played for those gathered in St. Thomas to hear the results. 'We expected to win, but we didn't expect to win by that much. You are incredible people I will never forget.' It comes on the heels of a very newsy day including a Justice Department report deeming President Joe Biden too old to be charged in the classified documents case and Supreme Court oral arguments that suggest some states are overstepping in trying to keep Trump off the 2024 ballot. 'Great news! As we are landing in Nevada, getting ready to go to Caucus, word just came that we overwhelmingly won the Virgin Islands Caucus, ALL Delegates, with almost 75% of the Vote,' Trump wrote on Truth Social on Thursday evening. 'I have just called to thank those involved. They are celebrating, and having a great time - They deserve it!' U.S. Virgin Island Republicans caucus on Thursday in the presidential primary race 'This has been a very Big Day for your Favorite President, the Republican Party, and Democracy!' he added, likely in reference to both the caucus victory, DOJ report and SCOTUS arguments. There is some confusion over the number of delegates that the Islands will be sending to the convention this summer in general, but Trump is poised to take all of them with his sweeping Thursday victory. Officials in the U.S. Virgin Islands say they plan to send nine deleages and six alternatives to the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in July. But the RNC claims they only have four delegates. WASHINGTON The flight safety rules passed after a 2009 plane crash in Clarence survived yet another potential challenge on Thursday when the Senate Commerce Committee approved major aviation legislation that includes no changes to those regulations. How Flight 3407 families and local lawmakers won fight to protect aviation safety reforms Seven hundred or so emails later and with a lot of help from their friends, the families of Continental Flight 3407 beat back the biggest threat yet to the aviation safety reforms they forced through Congress for now, at least. In a unanimous bipartisan vote, the panel approved a bill reauthorizing the Federal Aviation Administrations operations for the next five years. The bill, which will eventually be merged with a similar House-passed measure, boosts the number of air traffic controllers and also increases safety inspections at aircraft manufacturing facilities. But thanks to the lobbying efforts of the Families of Continental Flight 3407 and New York lawmakers, the measure includes no changes to the 2010 air safety legislation passed in reaction to the crash in Clarence. The airline industry has long pushed for changes to the part of legislation that requires new pilots to have the equivalent of 1,500 hours of experience before being hired by a commercial airline. The airlines say that rule has led to a pilot shortage. Once again despite their best efforts, special interests have lost and the lifesaving reforms inspired by the Flight 3407 carry on, said Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer, a New York Democrat who for years has fought to preserve the so-called 1,500-hour rule. Since these safety laws were enacted, not a single major U.S. airline has had a fatal crash, and I am proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with these families to have helped create these aviation reforms and protect them once again. The Senate committee action comes four days before the 15th anniversary of the Flight 3407 crash, which the families of the victims will mark Monday with a ceremony at the Long Street crash site. Federal investigators found that Flight 3407 tumbled to the ground after the co-pilot made a computer programming error and after the pilot incorrectly responded to the planes midair stall. Fifty people were killed in the crash. After 50 died in Clarence, Flight 3407 families made flying safer. Airlines are still pushing back The airlines are also blaming the 1,500 hour rule for a problem that others say they themselves helped create: the pilot shortage that's contributing to chaos at the nation's airports. In the months after the crash, the families of the victims came together as a lobbying force. And over the next 15 months, they successfully pressed Congress to pass landmark aviation safety legislation that not only required pilots to have more experience, but that also ensured that they get more rest between flights and better training. Schumer was key to that fight and the recurring battles to preserve the 1,500-hour rule. And Marilyn Kausner, who lost her daughter Ellyce in the crash, said Schumer remained key to preserving those safety measures in the FAA reauthorization bill. Without Senator Schumers steadfast advocacy and insistence on maintaining pilot training hours, we would not have been able to win that battle, Kausner said. Further, we are very happy that the bill is likely to pass with the other very much needed safety measures that will address the near misses that are likely to have a deadly impact if they are not addressed. The bill calls for additional air traffic controllers to help prevent those increasingly frequent near-misses from resulting in a crash. And those increased inspections stem from recent safety issues on the Boeing 737 MAX. Sen. John Thune, a South Dakota Republican, had previously pushed for measures to change the 1,500-hour rule. But neither he nor any of his colleagues made such a push during Thursdays markup of the FAA legislation. That may have something to do with Schumers vow to block any bill that tinkers with the 1,500-hour standard. On top of that, the House last summer passed an FAA reauthorization bill with no changes to the 1,500-hour rule. Rep. Nick Langworthy, a Republican who represents many Buffalo suburbs including Clarence, joined with then-Rep. Brian Higgins, a Buffalo Democrat, to defeat a proposal to alter those pilot experience requirements in that legislation. Its encouraging to hear that my colleagues on the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation chose to uphold my amendment to maintain the critical standard of 1,500 in-air pilot flight training hours, though we need to ensure its protected in the final reconciliation of the FAA reauthorization legislation between the House and Senate, Langworthy said. As we approach the anniversary of the tragic crash of Flight 3407, its important to note that this safety standard exists because of the hard work of the victims families, effectively preventing similar tragedies since it was implemented. An agitated Joe Biden has called Israel's military actions in Gaza 'over the top' in his harshest criticism since the bombings and invasion began. The US president rebuked his ally, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, at a press conference at the White House on Thursday as he discussed a report on his mishandling of classified documents. Biden said he was trying to broker a longer ceasefire to get humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza, and push for the release of Hamas hostages. 'I'm of the view, as you know, that the conduct of the response in the Gaza Strip has been over the top,' the 81-year-old president said. 'I'm pushing very hard now to deal with this hostage ceasefire. I've been working tirelessly on this deal. Joe Biden has called Israel 's military actions in Gaza 'over the top' in his harshest criticism since the bombings and invasion began Gaza's health ministry says more than 27,000 Palestinians were confirmed killed, with thousands more feared to be buried under rubble in Israel's response to the surprise attack 'I think if we can get the delay, the initial delay, I think we would be able to extend that so that we could increase the prospect that this fighting in Gaza changes.' Biden added he was pushing for increased humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians and to get a temporary pause in place to allow the release of hostages taken by Hamas. 'I'm pushing very hard now to deal with this hostage ceasefire,' he said, before describing the war's toll on Palestinian civilians. 'There are a lot of innocent people who are starving, a lot of innocent people who are in trouble and dying, and it's gotta stop.' Israel began its military offensive after Hamas militants from Gaza killed 1,200 people and took 253 hostages in southern Israel on October 7. Gaza's health ministry says more than 27,000 Palestinians were confirmed killed, with thousands more feared to be buried under rubble in Israel's response to the surprise attack. There has been one truce to date, lasting a week at the end of November, when Hamas released some of its hostages. Biden rebuked his ally, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu , at a press conference at the White House on Thursday Israel began its military offensive after Hamas militants from Gaza killed 1,200 people and took 253 hostages in southern Israel on October 7 Biden used the same phrase to describe Hamas' demands for the release of the remaining hostages on Tuesday. The group that runs Gaza wanted a 135-day ceasefire, all Israeli troops withdrawn from Gaza, and 1,500 Palestinian prisoners released. Biden described the demands as 'a little over the top' but Mossad, Israel's security agency, said it was 'looking intently at what was presented to us'. Netanyahu slammed the terrorists' demands as 'bizarre' and said to agree to them would 'only invite another massacre' when they are 'a finger away from a decisive victory.' Netanyahu responded unequivocally, stating: 'Surrendering to Hamas' delusional demands that we heard now not only won't lead to freeing the captives, it will just invite another massacre.' 'We are on the way to an absolute victory,' Netanyahu said, adding that the operation would last months, not years. 'There is no other solution,' he said as he called for the 'total elimination of Hamas.' When pushed on whether his government would accept the release of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for hostages, Mr Netanyahu said: 'Well, we haven't actually committed to anything. 'There is supposed to be some kind of process of negotiations with the mediators, but from what I've seen, after the response of Hamas, I don't know what is happening,' he said. People inspect the damage to their homes following Israeli air strikes on February 9 in Rafah, Gaza Palestinians look at the destruction after an Israeli strike in Rafah, southern Gaza Strip Hamas proposed three 45-day phases of releases, starting with all women, male civilians under 19, the elderly and the sick, in exchange for some of the Palestinian prisoners. The IDF would then have to withdraw from populated areas and cease aerial operations before the male soldiers are released in exchange for other convicts. In the final phase, the bodies of the dead hostages would be returned for the last batch of terrorists serving time in Israeli prisons. But the terror group demands also call for a complete withdrawal of the IDF from Gaza and would effectively allow Hamas to rebuild its military and remain in power. It also states that a third of Palestinians freed in exchange for the hostages would be those handed life sentences. Qatar is claimed to have leaned on Hamas to drop its demand for the withdrawal of Israeli forces in return for up to 5,000 Palestinian prisoners being released. Negotiations are ongoing between Israel, the US, and the Qatari and Egyptian mediators in Cairo. The Daily Mail understands all sides are pushing for an agreement before Ramadan next month that can be a time for increased religious fervor. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also met with Israeli leaders today to advance the cease-fire talks while pushing for a larger postwar settlement. It would see Saudi Arabia normalize relations with Israel in return for a 'clear, credible, time-bound path to the establishment of a Palestinian state'. Blinken landed in Tel Aviv after Israel after meeting the leaders of mediators Qatar and Egypt in the most serious diplomatic push of the war so far aimed at reaching an extended truce. Independent MP Zali Steggall has been called out for apparently making fun of deputy Opposition leader Sussan Ley's name despite Teals MPs saying the standard of parliamentary behaviour has to improve, including showing more respect to women. Ms Steggall took exception on Thursday to a tweet from Ms Ley claiming the Teals - the informal group of independent MPs of which Ms Steggall is a leading light - always voted with Labor and the Greens. 'A bit sssloppy Sussan!,' Ms Steggall fired back on X (formerly Twitter) apparently mocking the conventional spelling of Ms Ley's first name. 'That division was voting against your attempt to gag a minister during qt (Question Time). 'Cheap shot Zali,' Ms Ley replied. A bitter social media stoush has erupted after Teals MP Zali Steggall appeared to make fun of the unconventional way Liberal Deputy Leader Sussan Ley spells her name 'My name is Sussan, if you have a problem with that you can keep it to yourself. 'You said youd change Canberra, looks like its changed you.' 'Maybe think twice before you put misleading crap up,' Ms Steggall fired back. An Opposition spokesperson said that Ms Steggall's jibe was 'lowbrow stuff' from an MP that 'purports to be someone who cares about lifting the standards of the parliamentary workplace'. 'Clearly she has had a crack at Sussan about her name and when we have called her out on that she has doubled down ... including using pretty agricultural language that is pretty disappointing,' the spokesperson said. 'We wouldnt expect our people to be having a crack at other peoples names. We have to be better than that.' In the original Tweet, Ms Ley circled Ms Steggall sitting in the ranks of Labor MPs, while her fellow Teals Zoe Daniel and Monique Ryan were nestled in with Greens on the floor of the House of Representatives. 'Another day in the Parliament and yet another day of Teals voting with the Greens and with Labor,' Ms Ley wrote. 'People in these communities are learning the hard way when you vote Teal you get Green. The Greens are pushing Labor to come for your money, raising your tax is just the start.' Those commenting on the exchange lined up behind the two antagonists with some taking exception to what they saw as Ms Steggall's juvenile joke. 'Jesus - making fun of how someone spells their name?,' one person wrote. Ms Steggall wasn't happy at Ms Ley's suggestion that the Teals always vote with Labor and the Greens 'You are truly pathetic. You are not fit to be a Member of Parliament.' 'Making fun of how a fellow MPs name is spelled - how mature,' another agreed. However, a number were happy to follow Ms Steggall's example. 'Is Susssann the opposition minister for disinformation???' one tweeted. 'Imagine how sstupid Sussan would be if she hadnt added that s to her name because numerology,' another commented. Ms Ley was born Susan Braybrooks but added a third 's' to her first name after she left school. She believed the change would lead her to have an 'exciting' life after reading about numerology. Ms Ley discussed her name change in an interview with The Australian in 2015 where she said: 'I read about this numerology theory that if you add the numbers that match the letters in your name you can change your personality. After reading about numerology, Ms Ley changed the conventional spelling of her first name after leaving school 'I worked out that if you added an ''s'' I would have an incredibly exciting, interesting life and nothing would ever be boring. 'It's that simple. And once I'd added the ''s'' it was really hard to take it away.' Ms Steggall is not the only MP who makes fun of the spelling. Labor backbench MP Julian Hill habitually misspells Ms Ley's name on social media. 'Well, I suppose it makes sense that Susssan Ley would be desperately concerned about negative gearing,' he tweeted recently. 'And she certainly doesnt want to talk about Labors tax cuts for all taxpayers.' The Opposition spokesperson said they had also called Mr Hill out on his 'jokes'. 'Julian Hill is sort of the village idiot of parliament, so we sort of expect that juvenile behaviour from him but it was very surprising to see Zali do it because she is one of these people who purports to be above it all,' the spokesperson said. Last year the Teal Independents demanded more respect for women MPs as they slammed parliamentary debate as aggressive and abusive. North Sydney Teal MP Kylea Tink first raised concerns about the conduct of politicians in Parliament during Question Time in a speech delivered last Thursday. Ms Tink explained that she felt unsafe due to the 'hostile' and 'aggressive' behaviour in the chamber, noting that it would not be tolerated in any other workplace. She has since been backed up in her stance by fellow Teal Independents Allegra Spender and Ms Daniel. Ms Spender, the member for Wentworth, described Question Time as 'very very aggressive'. 'Shouting at each other is not robust debate, that is actually just abuse,' she said, as reported by News Corp. Both women labeled the questioning and conduct of Opposition male MPs as 'inappropriate'. 'Men hissing at women in the chamber, making pointed remarks to women in the chamber about what they're saying is utterly inappropriate,' Ms Daniel, the member of Goldstein, said. 'I have a 16-year-old son, I'm horrified at what he might observe the way people behave in that chamber and the example that sets for our kids.' Ms Steggall was contacted for comment. EXCLUSIVE A 31-year-old woman killed by a freight train after she jumped onto the tracks to retrieve her phone was a mother of young boys, Daily Mail Australia can reveal. Mandy Bellamy and her partner Aroulen Chinnien, 25, were standing on the platform at Berowra Railway Station, in Sydney's northern outskirts, at about midnight on Friday when started arguing. During the fight, Mr Chinnien, who went by the nickname 'Vin', grabbed Ms Bellamy's phone out of her hands and threw it onto the tracks. As she went to retrieve her phone, Mr Chinnien realised a freight train was coming and jumped down to try and save her. Both were tragically hit and died at the scene. Mandy Bellamy, 31, (pictured) was tragically killed after being hit by a freight train She was retrieving her phone her partner Aroulen Chinnien (pictured) threw onto the tracks. He also died after jumping down to try and save her when he saw the oncoming train Daily Mail Australia can reveal Ms Bellamy was a Hawkesbury local who grew up in the area. In her teen years, she attended both Asquith Girls High School in Sydney, and Henry Kendall High School in Gosford. Daily Mail Australia understands Ms Bellamy's sons live interstate. Mr Chinnien was also a local, with the accident taking place only metres away from his family home where he lived with his parents. A local resident, who did not wish to be identified, said she was shocked by the tragic news. She said she used to be Ms Bellamy's neighbour many years ago. 'Her kids used to play with my kids,' she said. 'I found out last week at the pub.' Ms Bellamy had been grappling with legal troubles in recent months after she was charged with domestic violence-related offences against an adult relative multiple times throughout 2023. One of those incidents resulted in Ms Bellamy being placed on an 18-month community corrections order - which was active at the time of her death - after she pleaded guilty to breaching an AVO. There were no legal domestic violence matters entered into the court system in relation to Ms Bellamy and Mr Chinnien and it remains unclear whether any reports of that nature had ever been made to police. Pictured: Berowra Railway Station (pictured), in Sydney's north, where the tragedy unfolded at midnight on February 2 It is understood the couple had only been recently begun dating. Devastated loved ones have left bouquets of flowers and notes along the walkway leading into the railway station in a makeshift memorial for the young mother. One sign read: 'We all love and miss you so much already', while another read:' Gone but never forgotten.' Meanwhile, others friends and relatives have shared touching posts online. 'Rest in peace my beautiful cousin,' Helen Watts wrote. 'You deserved so much better then [sic] this.' 'Rest in peace my number 1 photographer,' friend Jack Dimmock said. 'You will forever have a place in my heart. Enjoy all the food and liquor up there and try and save me some.' Mr Chinnien's cousin Rajagopalen Aroomougum Carpanen said he remembered holding him on his lap when he was a baby. Locals say they are still struggling to make sense of what happened at the railway station (pictured) last week Mandy's relatives have made a memorial at the train station with bouquets of flowers, candles, and notes One bouquet read: 'To Mandy. We all love you.' 'You hold a special place in my heart which I can't really define in words. Together, we created beautiful memories; be it before you went overseas or the time that you were on holidays in Mauritius,' he said. 'Moments in time that will forever be a part of me. 'Rest in Peace Aroulen, My adorable cousin.' A week on, locals are still coming to terms with the tragedy, which has rocked the community of Berowra, which has a population of just over 4,700 people. 'No one really wants to talk about it,' one man told Daily Mail Australia. 'What happened was so awful. I think it is still very raw.' The tragedy is being treated as a case of misadventure, with officers from Kuring Gai Police Area Command investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. A report will be prepared for the coroner. A GOP candidate in Missouri has taken a flamethrower to 'grooming, indoctrinating and sexualizing' books in a wild video shared on social media as part of her campaign. Valentina Gomez, 24, who is running to be Secretary of State, shared footage of herself setting two LGBTQ-inclusive books on fire on X on Tuesday. 'When Im Secretary of State, I will BURN all books that are grooming, indoctrinating, and sexualizing our children. MAGA. America First,' she wrote. Gomez ended the video with a picture of her holding a large gun as well as her campaign poster. She complained her clip was censored on Instagram and X as it was flagged as hateful conduct. A GOP candidate in Missouri has taken a flamethrower to 'grooming, indoctrinating and sexualizing' books in a viral video shared as part of her campaign Valentina Gomez, 24, who is running to be Secretary of State, shared footage of herself setting two LGBTQ-inclusive books on fire on X on Tuesday When Im Secretary of State, I will BURNall books that are grooming, indoctrinating, and sexualizing our children. MAGA. America First pic.twitter.com/m8waKi3yhP Valentina Gomez (@ValentinaForSOS) February 6, 2024 Gomez began the video by showing off her flame thrower that was already lit. 'This is what I'll do to the grooming books when I become secretary of state,' she said before burning the books. 'These books come from a Missouri Public Library. When I am in office, they will burn,' she added. The books in the video included Naked: Not Your Average Sex Encyclopedia, which was written by Myriam Daguzan Bernier and Queer, 2nd Edition: The Ultimate LGBTQ Guide for Teens by Kathy Belge and Marke Bieschke. Her campaign director Maicoll Gomez told NBC News the 'message is simple.' 'You want to be gay? Fine be gay. Just dont do it around children,' she said in a statement. 'Stop putting books in libraries about sexualization, indoctrination and grooming of children. Children need to learn mathematics, science, developing their people skills, getting fit, while protecting their innocence. 'Not learning the ideologies that the radical left loves to push on children. I am against all drag shows around children, pride flags in classrooms, teachers with pronouns, people wanting to "change" genders, and people that cant even define what a woman is. 'If genitals dont define gender, how does removing them affirm it. I only fear God.' Gomez began the video by showing off her flame thrower that was already lit She ended the video with a picture of her holding a large gun as well as her campaign poster The books in the video included Naked: Not Your Average Sex Encyclopedia, which was written by Myriam Daguzan Bernier and Queer, 2nd Edition: The Ultimate LGBTQ Guide for Teens by Kathy Belge and Marke Bieschke Belge, one of the authors of the books Gomez burned, said Americans 'should be concerned that a candidate for public office not only thinks book burning is acceptable, but that it is something that will help her get elected.' 'My book Queer: The Ultimate LGBTQ Book for Teens was written to give teens accurate and helpful information about what it means to be part of the LGBTQ community,' she added. 'We discuss important issues that teens face, like coming out, bullying, dating and finding community and support. And yes, dealing with haters like this political candidate. 'I suggest this candidate leave queer kids alone and focuses instead on the real issues that will make lives of people in Missouri better.' Gomez's post is similar to one made by Missouri state senator and 2024 GOP gubernatorial candidate Bill Eigel. He, along with state Senator Nick Schroer, was seen firing flames at cardboard boxes nd books during the St. Charles County Freedom Fest event outside St. Louis on September 15. 'In the video, I am taking a flame thrower(sic) to cardboard boxes representing what I am going to do to the leftist policies and RINO corruption of the Jeff City swamp,' he wrote on X. 'But lets be clear, you bring those woke pornographic books to Missouri schools to try to brainwash our kids, and Ill burn those too - on the front lawn of the governors mansion.' Republican states have increasingly pushed ban books that they claim are inappropriate for children out of school libraries. Missouri is one of around 40 states that has introduced bills to restrict how critical race theory, racism or sexism is discussed in classrooms since January 2021. Residents are outraged at the possible opening of a location of the provocative California coffee chain Bottoms Up, where staff serve while dressed in bikinis. The chain, which began in 2011 in Modesto, has long courted controversy with its so-called 'Bikini Baristas.' At a city council meeting in Hanford - where the Bottoms Up website has promoted opening a new location soon - locals expressed their concern over who the chain would attract. Christina Vargas, a local resident against the kiosk, called the cafe a 'perv magnet.' 'My family and I do not want a pervert magnet in our city, much less in our neighborhood,' she said. 'It's a danger to our neighborhood and damaging to the citizens, to the families of Hanford.' Residents are outraged at the possible opening of a location of the provocative California coffee chain Bottoms Up, where staff serve while dressed in bikinis The chain, which began in 2011 in Modesto, has long courted controversy with its so-called 'Bikini Baristas' Vargas also stated a belief that some of customers visiting Bottoms Up would not normally be welcomed in the neighborhood, according to The SJV Sun. Chief among those complaining was Lynn Barlow, owner of preschool Sunshine Friends Learning Center, which would be just 60 feet from the Bottoms Up kiosk. 'Bottoms Up does not just sell coffee,' Barlow said. 'Sexual influence along with the need for companionship will attract a certain number of customers that are troubled and dangerous to children.' She feared the state could revoke her license if the proposed location were to open. Another unnamed business owner added she was also likely to have to either move or lose her shop. 'As a business owner and a local and a mother, this feels like a slap in the face allowing something as inappropriate in this area with no regard to the businesses that have been serving the community for years, trying our best to keep it as a safe place for families and children to enjoy,' she said. 'Put simply, keep this garbage away from us, our children and our community,' she added. The license application has yet to be reviewed by the city council and city attorney Ty Mizote said he's told the landlord if Bottoms Up violates the city laws, they will get a court order to shut it down. At a city council meeting in Hanford - where the Bottoms Up website has promoted opening a new location soon - locals expressed concern at who the chain would attract A local resident against the kiosk called the cafe a 'perv magnet' Another unnamed business owner added she was also likely to have to either move or lose her shop if Bottoms Up is allowed to open The license application has yet to be reviewed by the city council and city attorney Ty Mizote said he's told the landlord if Bottoms Up violates the city laws, they will get a court order to shut it down In its 'About Us' section Bottoms Up claims: 'Custom, high-quality drinks, creative names and sexy baristas make up our unique concept' In 2011, Bottoms Up Espresso opened its first location in Modesto, California and it now has a number of franchises in the San Francisco Bay area. The company's website claimed it opened its second store within the first year due to changes made to a classic 'bikini barista' model. In its 'About Us' section it claims: 'Custom, high-quality drinks, creative names and sexy baristas make up our unique concept. 'Yet, our main focus is customer service. Our baristas are trained to engage with customers, while they create delicious drinks that are unique to the business.' In 2019, the coffee shop's American Canyon location had its license revoked as leaders argued it was operating more as n adult business than a cafe. Nate Wilson, owner of Bottoms Up, told Fox News in 2019 he believed that the 'city has gone beyond the law' with its ruling. He said the company will 'move on from that location' irrespective of the outcome. Wilson said: 'We have decided to move on from that location due to the fact the city will waste a bunch of taxpayers' money to fight us in court, where if we wanted to make a point would win. 'We do not fall into 'adult entertainment' as they suggest. 'The license was revoked before we even opened or went to any appeals. 'The city is acting beyond their powers and shows you how even small government abuses their powers.' Two juvenile offenders who allegedly broke into the home of rugby union star Toutai Kefu have pleaded guilty to the violent incident that left the family hospitalised. The Wallabies great, now 49, and his wife Rachel were confronted by the armed teens in their Brisbane home before a violent scuffle ensued just after 3am in August 2021. All seven of the Kefu family were hospitalised following the attack, with the two offenders accused of attempted murder. The duo were set to face trial in the Brisbane Supreme Court next week but their pleas for lesser charges were accepted on Friday. The home of Wallabies legend Toutai Kefu, 47, and his wife Rachel, 46, (pictured) was allegedly invaded by two teens in August 2021 READ MORE: Wallabies star Kurtley Beale found not guilty of sexual assault Kurtley Beale has been found not guilty of one count of sexual intercourse without consent and two counts of sexual touching in the NSW District Court Advertisement Both defendants pleaded guilty to seven charges including burglary, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, and four counts of malicious act with intent, Courier Mail reported. Justice Peter Davis described a brief outline of the incident to the young people before they were arraigned. It was alleged four youths broke into a home at Forest Lake and stole a lady's handbag, a bottle of whiskey and an iPhone before getting into the resident's car and driving to Coorparoo to find another vehicle to steal. There, two remained in the car whilst the accused pair entered the address armed with a large moon-shaped sickle and knives, where they were confronted by the Kefu family. 'The family who lived at the house woke up and you threatened them with the weapons,' Justice Davis said. 'Your intention was to cause serious injury which, if not treated, was likely to be permanent or endangering to life.' One offender also pleaded guilty to two additional charges; contravening an order to provide access to his phone and the assault of a neighbour who came to the Kefu's aid. 'As you ran from the house a neighbour caught you and you struggled with him while still armed with the knife, you caused an injury to his hand,' Justice Davis told the teen. The duo were ordered to be remanded in custody. The Kefu family were all injured by the offenders who were armed with a large moon-shaped sickle and knives The duo pleaded guilty to seven charges including burglary, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, and four counts of malicious act with intent Pre-sentence reports are to be prepared ahead of their sentence which was listed for May, with a Youth Justice report likely taking at least three months to prepare. Both offenders that did not enter the Kefu family home, allegedly remaining outside in the stolen vehicle during the incident, are due to be sentenced in the Children's Court of Queensland next month. One is understood to have already taken part in restorative justice conferencing with victims ahead of that sentence. Rachel Kefu was present at Brisbane Supreme Court on Friday and was seen being ushered out of a side door by security and detectives. Rachel Kefu was present at Brisbane Supreme Court on Friday and was seen being ushered out of a side door by security and detectives One of the defenders also pled guilty to an additional two charges, including contravening an order to provide access to his phone and the assault of a neighbour who came to the Kefu's aid Vladimir Putin said there is 'no stopping' X-owner, Tesla founder and Neuralink-creator Elon Musk as he gushed over the 'smart' tech mogul. The Russian leader heaped praise on Musk during a sit-down with Tucker Carlson that was released on Thursday night. Putin was asked by Carlson about whether an 'AI empire' is on the horizon, pivoting the conversation to Musk whose Neuralink company has reportedly implanted a microchip into a human brain. 'I think there's no stopping Elon Musk. He will do as he sees fit,' Putin told Carlson. 'Nevertheless, you'll need to find some common ground with him. Search for ways to persuade him. I think he's a smart person. I truly believe he is. Vladimir Putin said there is 'no stopping' Elon Musk in an interview with Tucker Carlson released on Wednesday The Russian president heaped praise on Musk, branding him a 'smart person' who will 'do as he sees fit' His comments came as Carlson pressed him about his views on the development of AI, a sector Musk is pushing to advance 'So you'll need to reach an agreement with him because this process needs to be formalized and subjected to certain rules.' Putin's comments came after he warned that mankind is 'currently facing many threats due to the genetic researchers'. 'It is now possible to create this superhuman. A specialized human being,' Putin added. 'A genetically engineered athlete, scientist, military man. There are reports that Elon Musk has already had the chip implanted in the human brain in the USA.' He likened the development of AI to the threat of nuclear weapons or the development of gunpowder. 'It is impossible to stop research in genetics or AI today, just as it was impossible to stop the use of gunpowder back in the day,' ,' Putin said. 'But as soon as we realize that the threat comes from unbridled and uncontrolled development of AI or genetics or any other field, the time will come to reach an international agreement on how to regulate these things.' Musk indicated that he was tuning in for the historic interview, but did not directly respond to being name-checked by the politician Elsewhere in the interview, Putin spoke favorably about his relationships with former presidents George W. Bush and Donald Trump. Putin warned that mankind is 'currently facing many threats due to the genetic researchers' Musk had indicated he was tuning in for the interview but had not directly responded to being named by Putin Of Bush, he said: 'I know that in the United States, he was portrayed as some kind of a country boy who does not understand much. I assure you that this is not the case. 'In general, on a personal human level, I had a very good relationship with him. He was no worse than any other American or Russian or European politician. I assure you he understood what he was doing as well as others.' He also characterized his relationship with Trump as 'personal'. But his comments on Biden were less enthusiastic as he revealed he had not spoken to the president since February 2022. He also appeared to mock Biden's continued financial support of Ukraine. The US has sent around $75 billion to the war-torn nation. 'If you really want to stop fighting, you need to stop supplying weapons,' Putin said. It will be over within a few weeks. That's it. And then we can agree on some terms before you do that, stop,' he said. The two-hour interview was posted on Carlson's website, the Tucker Carlson Network, shortly before 6pm on Thursday. The interview features a range of bombshell claims, including that Russia is continuing to develop hypersonic missiles 'superior to everyone else' and that Bill Clinton offered Russia a spot in NATO but was overruled by his staff. Sarah Lande, who organized Xi's first visit, wrote him a letter asking him to consider inviting Muscatine students Xi fell in love with Iowa when he visited in 1985 during an agricultural tour of the United States Students from the Iowa town Chinese President Xi Jinping visited nearly 39 years ago were invited on an all-expense paid trip to China by the communist leader himself - showing the town of Muscatine has a special place in his heart. In 1985, Sarah Lande organized a group from China visiting Muscatine on an agricultural research tour of America, and one of the participants was Xi. The two have kept in contact over the years and Lande decided to take Xi up on his remarks at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in San Francisco in November when he expressed a desire to host American students in his country. Lande, who Xi refers to as an 'old friend,' wrote the president a letter asking him to include students from Muscatine in the 50,000 foreign exchange students he said he would like to host in the next five years, reported the Des Moines Register. On January 10, the China Daily reported that Xi extended a personal invitation the students and staff from Muscatine High School to come visit China. 'I guess there is something to "Iowa nice" because he has never forgotten us. It seems to have stuck,' Lande said. Students from the Iowa town Chinese President Xi Jinping visited nearly 39 years ago were invited on an all-expense paid trip to China by the communist leader himself Sarah Lande, who Xi refers to as an 'old friend,' wrote the president a letter asking him to include students from Muscatine in the 50,000 foreign exchange students he said he would like to host in the next five years On January 10, the China Daily reported that Xi extended a personal invitation the the students and staff from Muscatine High School to come visit China. The official invitation came three days later on January 13, and by January 22, 24 students and four staff members were on a plane to China Xi said he hoped 'more young Americans will visit China, observe China with their own eyes, listen to China with their own ears and measure China with their own footsteps so as to have a glimpse of a real China.' The official invitation came three days later on January 13, and by January 22, 24 students and four staff members were on a plane to China. 'Isnt that the darndest thing. But I guess it shows that if (Xi) decides he wants something to happen, it happens. When China wants something to happen, they put their mind, soul and money behind it,' Lande said. On the all-expense paid trip, the group spent eight days visiting with local students, touring landmarks such as the Great Wall of China and participated in a conference for students learning the Mandarin language. Photos posted by the Muscatine Community School District show the group did activities such as visiting Fudan University and discovered details about ancient Chinese paper and writing, and learned to make dumplings and eat Peking Duck. At the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in San Francisco in November Xi expressed a desire to host American students in his country Photos posted by the Muscatine Community School District show the group did activities such as visiting Fudan University and discovered details about ancient Chinese paper and writing, and learned to make dumplings and eat Peking Duck Photos posted by the Muscatine Community School District show the group did activities such as visiting Fudan University and learned about ancient Chinese paper and writing Muscatine High School student Cole Loos told Voice of America, 'I was lucky I had my passport to go. It was very spontaneous.' Ann Edkin, the physical education teacher who chaperoned the trio said, 'The fact that he came here, that's cool. But to have that ongoing relationship, it's not just a blip, but a continuing relationship that makes it so unique and special.' 'Actually, I'm very, very proud of them. Seems like they grew super-fast in a few days,' said the school Mandarin teacher Heidi Kuo. Xi fell in love with Iowa during his 1985 visit as a 32-year-old leading the Hebei Shikiazhuang Prefecture Corn Processing delegation on a 12-day visit to rural Iowa. They toured farms and manufacturing facilities during their research into American food production systems. They were occasionally baffled. After traveling along a four-lane highway, one of the delegation wondered how they would ever turn around and head back. Xi fell in love with Iowa during his 1985 visit as a 32-year-old leading the Hebei Shikiazhuang Prefecture Corn Processing delegation on a 12 -day visit to rural Iowa Gary Dvorchak bought back his old family home last year for $250,000 and plans to turn it into a museum designed to celebrate the Xi visit and improve relations between the U.S. and China Xi slept in a bedroom with green shag carpeting and Star Trek character cutouts on the walls. He ate eggs with a spoon because his host forgot the chopsticks. He enjoyed his time so much, that in 2012 when Xi returned to the U.S. as vice president, he specifically requested a visit to Iowa. Gary Dvorchak, whose bed was used by the future Chinese president all those years ago, has bought back his old family home with a plan to use it to improve understanding between the two nuclear superpowers. 'Our vision is really to use it to run it as a nonprofit, and, to make it to make it a a positive presence in an otherwise very negative relationship,' he said. Former President Donald Trump said 'all I want' is for the general election to be held Tuesday after an easy caucus win in Nevada, a good day at the Supreme Court and a bad day for President Joe Biden. Trump appeared onstage at the Treasure Island Hotel and Casino and gloated over his resounding double win in Nevada - with Thursday's caucuses called for the ex-president with under 1 percent of the vote reporting, and Tuesday's primary result - when Trump wasn't on the ballot - embarrassing rival Nikki Haley. He also hinted that he believed the Supreme Court would rule in his favor, allowing him to remain on the ballot nationwide, after in oral arguments earlier Thursday even the liberal justices seemed skeptical of tossing him off. 'Is there any way we can call the election for next Tuesday? That's all I want,' Trump told the crowd. 'I want to call the election for next Tuesday.' Trump surprisingly didn't address President Joe Biden's chaotic day - with Special Counsel Robert Hur's classified documents report calling attention to the 81-year-old president's 'diminished faculties,' referring to him as a 'well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory.' Former President Donald Trump said at his victory party in Las Vegas Thursday night that he wanted the general election to be held now Supporters of former President Donald Trump attend a Nevada caucus night victory party in Las Vegas When Biden addressed the report in a surprise press conference Thursday night, he made another gaffe - saying the president of Egypt was from 'Mexico.' Trump had a slight mess-up too when talking to supporters about Tuesday night's Nevada primary, accidentally placing the action on Wednesday. 'And last night, and you know what happened last night, none of the above,' he said to laughs. Without Trump's name on the ballot, his supporters selected 'none of these candidates,' with that option winning over Haley, who didn't actively campaign in the state, protesting the Trump-aligned Nevada Republican Party's decision to go ahead with a caucus after the state legislature voted that primaries had to be held. 'I would like to congratulate none of the above. I was one of those none of ever aboves,' Trump said laughing. 'And they won by 44 points.' The 2024 Republican frontrunner then turned to Thursday's oral arguments in front of the Supreme Court. 'The Supreme Court will hopefully be doing something in terms of helping our country and preserving democracy. We have to preserve democracy,' Trump said. North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum. (left) shakes former President Donald Trump's hand onstage Thursdsay night at the 2024 GOP frontrunner's caucus party in Las Vegas, Nevada 'Trump Wins Nevada!' signs adorned the ballroom at the Treasure Island Resort & Casino where former President Donald Trump addressed supporters in Las Vegas after easily winning Nevada's GOP caucus. Rival Nikki Haley did not appear on the caucus ballot He appointed three of the current nine justices to the conservative-leaning court. 'I think they had a very interesting day and a very beautiful day perhaps. I think it was a very beautiful sight to watch,' the ex-president added. As Trump prepared to deliver victory remarks, his surrogates and Nevada-based allies descended on the ballroom in Treasure Island, situated near his Las Vegas hotel. Surrogate North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, a former 2024 rival now backing Trump, told DailyMail.com that he believed the Justice Department report on Biden could change the trajectory of the presidential race. 'I think it's gonna change it more for the Democrats because they're gonna have to decide. I mean, they effectively built a whole campaign around, "We're gonna stick with the horse that we have in the race and block everybody else from getting in this thing." But I think they see their fortunes are starting to fail,' Burgum said. 'They'll be scrambling to see what they can do.' 'But it's a tough sell fo the American people because the American people got to see - I mean think of that Biden press conference today as being a marker in this campaign where people could be talking about this as a turning point for the Biden campaign,' the North Dakota governor added. Several hours before the result was called in Nevada, Trump also clinched a victory in the U.S. Virgian Islands caucuses. He earned 73.9 percent of the vote to Haley's 26 percent and is expected to take all delegates available from the islands. 'Great news!' Trump wrote on Truth Social on Thursday. 'As we are landing in Nevada, getting ready to go to Caucus, word just came that we overwhelmingly won the Virgin Islands Caucus, ALL Delegates, with almost 75% of the Vote.' 'This has been a very Big Day for your Favorite President, the Republican Party, and Democracy!' he noted, likely reference not only his win, but the DOJ report and SCOTUS arguments. Vegas-based Trump Senior Advisor Kash Patel told DailyMail.com on Wednesday that winning Nevada is the 'key to the west,' as he drew parallels between the demographics and priorities of voters in the Silver State and in Arizona a must-win in 2024. Nevada went blue in 2016 and 2020, but Arizona was a red state that flipped blue in 2020, and that Trump and Biden see as a priority to clinch the White House in 2024. Nevada voters wait in line to enter a caucus site at Spanish Springs Elementary School in Sparks, Nevada on Thursday, February 8 after the primary election on Tuesday where Nikki Haley lost to 'none of these candidates' Lined up at the South Reno Caucus to vote for President Trump. There is snow on the ground, it is a cold night, and people walked for miles to wait in line for an hour or more. Trump is the only person they can vote for, but they want to make their voices heard. Great sign! pic.twitter.com/yFGQgp6LB6 Adam Paul Laxalt (@AdamLaxalt) February 9, 2024 Trump held his caucus night party at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino seen peaking out as the former president's famous golden Trump Tower Hotel looms over the Las Vegas Strip While Tuesday's primary election was only symbolic after the Nevada GOP decided all the delegates would be awarded in the caucuses on Thursday, Trump still was the biggest winner that night. Haley came in second place in the primary behind the option 'none of these candidates,' which offered voters a chance to cast their ballot for no one an effort led by Trump Senior Advisor Kash Patel. The stunning defeat of Haley proves that Trump supporters are so enthusiastic and mobilized that they were willing to show up twice to symbolically and then actually cast their ballots for the former president. 'Lined up at the South Reno Caucus to vote for President Trump,' Former Nevada Attorney General Adam Laxalt wrote in a post to X, formerly Twitter, along with a video of a massive line of people waiting to get into the caucus site. 'There is snow on the ground, it is a cold night, and people walked for miles to wait in line for an hour or more,' he noted. 'Trump is the only person they can vote for, but they want to make their voices heard. Great sign!' Trump only participated in the caucuses after the GOP said any candidates who signed up for the primary were barred from the contest two days later. EXCLUSIVE A savage dog that mauled a female cleaner at a suburban home was a rescue animal that had only recently been adopted. Lynda Dowell, 52, turned up at a property in Condell Park, in Sydney's southwest, shortly before 1pm on Tuesday to clean when she was suddenly set upon by the property owner's pet. Despite initial reports the dog was an American Pit Bull Terrier, Ms Dowell's niece, Kiara, said the aggressive animal was a French Mastiff. Lynda Dowell (pictured) was mauled by a dog while cleaning a property in south-west Sydney on Tuesday Dog handlers are pictured removing the animal from the property on Tuesday The dog repeatedly bit Ms Dowell on the chest and limbs, with a group of nearby tradesmen rushing over to save her after hearing her screams. The men threw a bin and rocks at the dog before cops arrived and subdued it was a taser. Ms Dowell was taken to Liverpool Hospital in a serious but stable condition, while the dog was removed from the scene by council handlers and then euthanised. Ms Dowell's niece Kiara said Ms Dowell has since undergone surgery to repair the blood flow to her arm. 'The dog was a rescue dog the lady had only had for a few weeks,' she told Daily Mail Australia. '(My aunt) is extremely traumatised from the attack and it will be a slow recovery time. 'She is lucky to be alive.' Ms Dowell suffered 'multiple bites' to her chest and arms in the terrifying attack Despite initial reports the dog was an American Pit Bull Terrier, the aggressive animal was a French Mastiff Distressing footage from the scene showed two officers standing behind a wall as onlookers shouted at them to take action. 'It needs to stop now, you've got to get her out of there, mate,' yelled one tradie who was watching from behind a fence. Seconds later, an officers fired a taser. The animal then started barking as someone shouted: 'Where's the ambulance?' Emergency crews arrived a short time later. Witnesses said there was little that could be done to help Ms Dowell until police arrived. 'Two tradesmen actually pulled up and were helping, but they just couldn't stop the dog attacking the woman,' neighbour Peter Burzynski said. One of the men who ran to the woman's aid, who identified himself only as Mohamad, said such dangerous animals should not be allowed. 'I started throwing rocks at it, I threw a crowbar at it, throwing little concrete slabs at it, threw a garbage bin at it and the dog wouldn't move. He kept sitting on the floor and (mauling the woman),' he said. 'That dog shouldn't be out in the public, especially a dog like that. We've all got kids, it could've been any of our kids, could've been our mums, our wives, anybody.' State economic development officials have reversed their decision to exclude a Hamburg steelmaker from New Yorks woman-owned business program. But while the about-face is good for Lauren Chmielowiec and Upstate Steel, another large company near the Buffalo Bills new stadium site says it is struggling to get work on the $1.5 billion project. She runs her family steel business. New York State isn't so sure Lauren Chmielowiec was rejected from New Yorks list of certified women-owned businesses because state regulators questioned her status as the true owner of her company. She said the state claimed some of the men she employed did too much of the work. Im bidding the Bills project right now, Jennifer Kuhn, president of Hamburg Overhead Door, said last month. They want to meet all these goals, but I cant get through all the red tape to get approved. Kuhn and Chmielowiec are part of a growing number of women who say they are unintended victims of the states attempts to crack down on fraud, which has plagued the program for years. I find it frustrating that legitimate businesses like ours are being punished for the bad deeds of others, Kuhn said. We all know that (fraud) was going on for a lot of years. But theyve over-corrected. Nearly 500 women-owned businesses rejected from MWBE program, but NY denies fraud concerns State officials deny they are "cracking down" on phony woman-owned business applications, but their own statistics show they are denying applications for WBEs at more than twice the rate of certification applications for minority-owned businesses. Brendan R. Wolf, a partner at the Albany law firm Couch White LLP, said in the last year he has helped 15 woman-owned businesses obtain certification after they were originally denied by the state. Its a large part of my business, right now, and Im getting calls all across the state, Wolf said. Wolf credits Gov. Kathy Hochuls administration for speeding the appeals process from over three years to roughly six months. Hochul last year budgeted $11 million for what she called the historic elimination of a yearslong MWBE minority/women-owned business enterprises certification backlog. How the program works New Yorks program, which is overseen by Empire State Development, began in the 1980s as a way to encourage the hiring of minorities and women, who have historically been underrepresented in the building trades. State Inspector General cites minority business fraud on Southern Tier casino project Contractors evaded state rules requiring minority or women-owned businesses be hired for portions of the $44 million Tioga Downs casino job, the State Inspector Generals Office said in documents made public today. State law requires agencies to set goals for the awarding of contracts to businesses that have at least a 51% minority or woman ownership stake. Construction firms who bid on state contracts typically try to meet the goals by hiring subcontractors that are owned by certified minority- or women-owned business enterprises, or MWBEs. There are more than 9,700 certified MWBE companies listed on a state directory used by contractors, government agencies and private developers seeking minority business participation. They get access to lending and bonding programs and support services from the state. New York in recent years has been aggressive in booting from its programs companies it says are not authentic WBEs because the husband, father or brother of the female owner controls the company. A 2021 review of state economic development files and court records by The Buffalo News revealed nearly 500 cases in the last three years where state officials either denied the certification of a woman-owned business or revoked its certification years after the state initially approved it. Most of those cases involved family businesses where a woman owned a majority stake in the company, but a male member of the womans family either co-owned or had significant roles in the business. We need to do that to ensure the integrity of the program, Goldie Weixel, acting general counsel for Empire State Development, said at the time. The purpose is to support woman-owned businesses. Its not the family-owned business program. Upstate Steel That stance has rankled business owners such as Upstate Steels Chmielowiec, who in 2015 was denied recertification as a WBE because state officials said her mother, Bonnie Chmielowiec, was listed on tax forms as a bookkeeper for the business. State officials claimed her father and other men made most business decisions. State officials made a similar determination in 2017 when an affiliated company, Upstate Rebar, applied for certification as a WBE and was denied. With respect to operations, the (State) Division (of Minority and Womens Business Development) determined that Bonnie Chmielowiec and the other woman owner (Lauren Chmielowiec) do not make decisions pertaining to the operation of the business enterprise, a state administrative law judge wrote in a document explaining the denial. Bills new stadium a private project that will play under many state, county rules About 400 companies are expected to be involved in working on hundreds of assorted bid packages that are part of the new stadium construction and demolition of the current one. Chmielowiec said the denial cost her $4 million worth of work on the stadium. She hired Wolf, who provided additional documentation to the state showing that Chmielowiec was the legitimate owner of the company. She is now certified as a WBE, meaning her work would count as part of the required percentage on the stadium job. Im blown away that my voice was actually heard, Chmielowiec said. But its really sad that you have to go to those lengths just to give yourself a fighting chance. Hamburg Overhead Door In the summer, Empire State Development concluded that the Bills hiring through early June of minority and women-owned businesses, as well as service-disabled and veteran-owned businesses, to build the new stadium was well below its expected performance under project participation goals. Kuhn was surprised when her familys company, Hamburg Overhead Door, was denied entry into the program in 2021. Bills missing early minority contracting goals on new stadium Representatives with the Bills and with the project construction manager say that only a small fraction of all the bid packages have been released, and even fewer have been awarded. Kuhns father founded the business and made Kuhn a vice president in 2004. She had a business degree, graduated from the University at Buffalos Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership program and handled sales, development and administrative functions. Her brother, Jason Kuhn, worked as lead installer for the company. Ive been on this path since I was 14, Jennifer Kuhn said. I went to school for this. It wasnt just handed to me. I worked for my dad for 15 years before he sold it to me. When her parents retired in 2020, they sold a 51% ownership stake to Jennifer Kuhn, who became president, and a 49% stake to Jason Kuhn, who became vice president. State officials claimed Jason Kuhn controlled the company and denied it certification. She said state officials did not perform a site visit. Thats what theyre punishing me for, (because) Im not out installing garage doors, Jennifer Kuhn said. Im doing the billing, HR, marketing, sales. (Installing) is the easy part, honestly. Its all the other stuff on the business side that goes into it. An Empire State Development spokesperson declined to comment on the case, but said in a written statement that the agency remains committed to fostering an environment where MWBEs can thrive, and we continuously work to improve the certification process. We will continue to provide clarity and guidance to all applicants navigating the process and will continue to connect the thousands of state-certified MWBEs to contracting opportunities across New York State. Jennifer Kuhn said she is appealing the denial and trying to obtain work on the Bills stadium, which will need roughly 200 garage doors. Without state certification, though, she is unlikely to be hired because woman-owned businesses that are not certified with the state do not count toward the projects WBE goals. I should not be punished because my brother works here, Kuhn said. Im not a wife or a sister someone put on a piece of paper. For so many years, there was a lot of fraud taking place, and I understand they need to stop that from happening. But thats not whats going on here. A San Francisco dispensary owner has been exposed boasting about how he has made 'hundreds of thousands of dollars' by ripping off cannabis farmers - as the state's cannabis $600million 'debt bubble' grows. Norman Yousif, founder and CEO of the dispensary chain Off the Charts, was caught on camera bragging about deliberately failing to pay 'mom-and-pop' vendors. The video sparked outrage as it highlighted a recurring problem in California's legal cannabis market that sees farmers short-changed. Small family-run operations are particularly vulnerable and have even been put out of business by the practice. 'You know how much money we have saved by not paying the vendors because they have been out of business or they never collect it when they've done a lot of this?' Yousaf said. Norman Yousif, founder and CEO of the dispensary chain Off the Charts, was caught on camera bragging about not paying his cannabis suppliers Yousif specifically bragged about failing to pay 'mom and pop' vendors, sparking fury in the industry 'I ain't talking about the 30 staple brands that are here to play, I'm talking about these f***** mom and pop shops that come and go. 'Probably saved hundreds of thousands, you don't have to pay. You don't have to pay.' The video quickly went viral with viewers fuming that his comments exemplified 'everything that is wrong' inside California's cannabis industry. Growers Big Red's Cannabis Co. were among those to condemn Yousif's remarks. 'Us mom and pop brands are the whole f***** reason,' the company wrote on Instagram. 'We are the ones that put ourselves on the line for medical and recreational. I'm calling for a boycott of all Off The Charts stores no vendors sell to them and no customer should buy from them support the mom and pop brand support the small guy.' Yousif apologized in a statement to SF Gate, but claimed his recorded statement was taken out of context and was in reference to a situation from five years ago when a number of brands went out of business before his company could pay them. 'I'm not the most polished person in the world. This was a big lesson learned from me,' Yousif told the outlet. Unpaid invoices are a huge problem within the state, were a 'debt bubble of more than $600 million has emerged, per a 2022 report. Pictured: a cannabis farmer in Honeydew, California California's largest cannabis distributor HERBL collapsed in 2023 due to unpaid bills Similar accusations were leveled at dispensary operator MedMen Enterprises in 2020, CNN reported. The outlet found the industry player had fallen behind on payments to vendors and been forced to abruptly shutter locations and lay off staff. 'As part of the restructuring, the company has been actively working with its vendor partners on modifying payment terms, which in some cases include stock consideration,' MedMen Chief Financial Officer Zeeshan Hyder, said in an emailed statement to CNN Business. 'Like other retailers, the company is in constant communication with its vendors and is working towards solutions that are in the best interest of both parties.' Many of those being shafted are multi-generational farmers in the Emerald Triangle in Northern California who have struggled since recreational weed was legalized in the Golden State in 2016. 'We're seeing the individual collapse of the legacy farmers the mom and pops who have been doing this for 15 or 20 years and who have a real stake in this game,' Victor Pinho, who operates a cannabis farm tour company in the area told NBC News. 'It's just hit after hit after hit on these poor people.' Unpaid invoices are a huge problem within the state, were a 'debt bubble' of more than $600 million has emerged, per a 2022 report. Last year California's largest cannabis distributor HERBL collapsed after stores failed to pay their bills. Marijuana growers have been struggling since the drug was legalized for recreational use in 2016 and the wholesale price of weed declined Unpaid invoices are a huge problem within the state, were a 'debt bubble' of more than $600 million has emerged, per a 2022 report A change in tax laws in January 2023 that shifted the responsibility for collecting and paying the cannabis excise tax to the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration from distributors to cannabis retailers has only exacerbated the issue. Hundreds of cannabis stores also now face massive penalties after failing to pay state taxes last year, prompting warnings of an 'extinction event' in business. Around 265 cannabis retailers failed to make payment by the May 1 deadline, meaning they face a 50 percent penalty on taxes owed. State Assembly member Phil Ting, a Democrat from San Francisco, has since proposed a bill requiring distributors to pay their suppliers for transactions worth more than $5,000 within 15 days or face fines. Unlike other forms of agriculture, struggling cannabis growers are not entitled to access federal loans and grants due to the different stances on legalization. Across the US, the legalized marijuana industry is buckling under the strain of plunging prices, patchwork state regulation, and burdensome taxes, analysts and industry groups say. 'All of these issues are chipping away at the health of the industry to the point where I would describe the industry as in crisis in the United States,' Beau Whitney, senior economist for the National Cannabis Industry Association, told DailyMail.com. 'This is unsustainable from an economic perspective.' Currently, the recreational use of cannabis is legal in 23 states, and last year state-regulated medical and recreational pot sales topped $26 billion nationwide, according to Vangst. San Francisco's Democrat mayor has endorsed a Republican effort to reform a controversial law that made it easier for criminals to get away with shoplifting and drug crimes. Mayor London Breed gave her support for a measure called the Homelessness, Drug Addiction, Retail Theft Reduction Act on Thursday, reported the Los Angeles Times. The measure is aimed at reforming Proposition 47, a law passed almost ten years ago by voters, made some 'non-violent' property crimes and 'simple' drug possession offenses into misdemeanors. The law has been blamed for the spike in retail theft seen in the Bay Area and brazen thieves being quickly returned to the streets. 'In San Francisco, we are making progress on property crimes, but the challenges we are facing related to fentanyl and organized retail theft require real change to our state laws,' Breed said. 'I fully support this measure and know it will make a meaningful difference for cities across California.' San Francisco Mayor London Breed has endorsed a Republican effort to reform a controversial law that made it easier for criminals to get away with theft and drug crimes Proposition 47, a law passed almost ten years ago by voters, made some 'non-violent' property crimes and 'simple' drug possession offenses into misdemeanors. In September, brazen thieves robbed a Bay Area Chanel store The proposed reform will increase penalties for fentanyl dealers and repeat organized retail theft ring participants, as well as provide mandatory treatment for drug users. Breed's endorsement comes as she is running for reelection and faces low approval rating amid soaring crime in her city. The law made some non-violent property crimes, where the value does not exceed $950, into misdemeanors. It also made some simple drug possession offenses into misdemeanors, according to the Law Office of the Los Angeles County Public Defender. In San Francisco, robberies were up 14.6 percent and motor vehicle thefts were up 6 percent in 2023, according to the San Francisco Police Department. While some statistics, such as human trafficking, arson and burglaries have improved in recent months, January also saw a sharp 50 percent rise in homicides and 27.3 percent increase in rapes in San Francisco compared to the year prior. Crime tracker Neighborhood Scout ranks San Francisco as safer than just one percent of US neighborhoods, and it owns a robbery rate over 4.5 times higher than the national average. In a new development in recent years, stores across the city such as CVS have been forced to keep items locked up behind security glass due to a high number of thefts and shoplifting incidents. The city's property theft rate stands at over 3.1 times higher than the national average, with burglaries and motor vehicle thefts also both over 2.7 percent higher than the US average. In one Bay Area theft, in September, brazen thieves, a trio of masked men dressed in all black, ransacked a Bay Area Chanel store. The brutes were seen entering the store and grabbing handbags, backpacks and pocketbooks off the shelves as a terrified cashier says: 'Oh my god.' They then sprint out with one of the thieves falling to the ground, as shoppers screamed and others yell 'Get them!' It came amid a spate of 'flash rob' mobs in California, with them previously targeting Nordstrom Rack, Nike and Versace. Footprint store owner Michael Hsu said his store was recently robbed of $20,000 in merchandise and damages Drugs have also been a growing problem with people posting photos and videos online of filth and homeless people lining the streets in San Francisco The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner reported there were 806 overdose deaths in the city in 2023, which nearly 80 percent involved fentanyl. Crime and filth in the Golden Gate City has forced businesses and citizens to flee causing a 'doom loop' - referring to a city's decline when tax incomes fall as residents and businesses leave, causing revenues to decline in a downward spiral. In August, the area's flagship Nordstrom closed after three decades in business while other notable closings include Whole Foods, CB2, Anthropologie, and more. The San Francisco Center, once a thriving mall home to the largest Nordstrom in America, is a shell of its former self after a string of high-profile departures. Staff and shoppers in the mall, where five more stores closed in January, told DailyMail.com that crime and falling foot traffic is ruining the palatial building. Crime and filth in the Golden Gate City has forced businesses and citizens to flee causing a 'doom loop' - referring to a city's decline when tax incomes fall as residents and businesses leave, causing revenues to decline in a downward spiral The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner reported there were 806 overdose deaths in the city in 2023, which nearly 80 percent involved fentanyl The downtown area of San Francisco has seen a staggering number of businesses flee since the pandemic, citing lax policing, rampant homelessness and sickening open-air drug taking for driving them out of business Accounting giant KPMG, which announced earlier this month that it will quit its $400 million namesake building in the downtown area. Statistics show the city stands to lose $200 million a year in revenue through its business exodus - which has seen major hotels and retailers flee the city center. Retail stalwart Old Navy announced they would be shuttering their flagship store in the area In October, after Nordstrom also announced they would be closing all of their locations in the city. In April, Whole Foods announced it was closing all their locations, with Anthropologie and Office Depot having also made the same decisions leading some analysts to predict that the city has entered a 'doom-loop' of permanent decline. This video is no longer available This video is no longer available A bystander has been hit by shrapnel exploding from a truck fire on a major highway which left hundreds of motorists facing long rush hour traffic delays. The truck went up in flames on Friday at 3.45pm forcing all outbounds lanes on the West Gate Freeway near Bolt Bridge, Docklands in Melbourne's east to be blocked. Emergency crews rushed to the scene and dozens of firefighters are currently working to douse the ferocious flames. Paramedics and police have also arrived to assist emergency crews. Traffic has banked up on the West Gate Freeway (pictured) in Melbourne's east on Friday after a truck caught fire The person who was injured is believed to have been hit by a piece of shrapnel from the truck which exploded while the vehicle was on fire. 'One member of the public suffered an injury due to a piece of shrapnel exploding from the truck while on fire,' a Fire and Rescue Victoria spokesperson told The Herald Sun. A spokesperson from Ambulance Victoria told Daily Mail Australia that paramedics did attend the scene but no requests to render assistance were made 'Paramedics were called to an incident in Port Melbourne about 3.10pm,' the spokesperson said. 'No emergency treatment or transport was required.' 'Police and Ambulance Victoria were responded to assist, Citylink utilised Traffic Management Systems to assist with traffic control.' Thick plumes of black smoke were seen billowing from the white truck which brought traffic to a standstill. Hundreds of motorists heading home from work along the freeway have been forced to endure a traffic chaos as a result of the incident. Vehicles were backed up all the way onto the Monash Freeway from the Domain Tunnel causing traffic delays of more than 55 minutes. Motorists on the freeway heading in the direction of West Gate Bridge were being diverted onto two lanes on the far left which leads to CityLink and Todd Road. Emergency services are currently at the scene (pictured) fighting the blaze with commuters facing traffic chaos Motorists have been diverted away from the area as emergency crews (pictured) work to extinguish the blaze Drivers who are heading to the south eastern suburbs near Melbourne airport have been urged to exit just before the on ramp of the Domain Tunnel with the road taking commuters north of the city. Motorists heading towards the west have been urged to head towards South Melbourne and Southbank by using the entry from Todd Road to reach West Gate Bridge. Victoria's public transport department said that more lanes will be opened along the freeway once it has been deemed safe to do so. Fire and Rescue Victoria said they received multiple calls for a truck fully involved in fire on the Westgate Freeway citybound near the Bolte Bridge exit. 'Access to the event was problematic due to the build up of traffic,' said a spokesman. 'Crews arrived on scene within nine minutes and tackled the fire wearing breathing apparatus due to the heavy smoke. 'One member of the public suffered an injury due to a piece of shrapnel exploding from the truck while on fire. 'Police and Ambulance Victoria were responded to assist [while] City Link utilised Traffic Management Systems to assist with Traffic Control. 'The event is ongoing and will cause some traffic delays.' A 12-year-old girl missing for two days on the Sunshine Coast has been found by her relieved family after a massive search effort. Mya Baker was last seen leaving a property along Cape Street in Birtinya at 6.45pm on Wednesday and had not made contact with family since. On Friday evening though, delighted relatives confirmed to Queensland Police they had finally tracked her down. Police said around 3.30pm on Friday afternoon that Mya has been found safe and well. Queensland Police have said 12-year-old girl Mya Baker who went missing on Wednesday evening has now been found safe and well Mya left her home on Wednesday evening without her wallet or shoes and the young girl does not own a mobile phone which made her unreachable. She told her brother, who was the last person to see her at the time, that she was heading to Birtinya Park. Her brother went to check on her sister at the park around 20 minutes later only to find that she was gone. She was last seen wearing a black t-shirt that had red lines imprinted on it and a pair of black bike pants. Mya's family reported her missing to police on Wednesday night around 8.30pm. Mya left her home on Wednesday evening and told her brother she was heading to Birtinya Park (pictured) where she was last seen before she went missing Sunshine Coast Detective Inspector Chris Toohey told reporters at a press conference on Friday that police had grave concerns for Mya's welfare. Inspector Toohey said officers were informed that it was the first time Mya spent the night away from her family without informing her loved ones. There were also concerns for her safety due to her young age. Police carried out an extensive search for Mya across surrounding areas and door knocked homes near Birtinya Park and scoured CCTV footage in a bid to find her. Authorities from Brisbane were also involved in the search and rescue effort for the 12-year-old. Police also investigated any communication she may have made to anyone online prior to her disappearance. Members of her school community had also been contacted for assistance in locating Mya. The Home Secretary has launched an investigation into how the asylum system deals with migrants who have converted to Christianity amid claims 40 men on the Bibby Stockholm barge are being baptised. The probe by James Cleverly follows renewed focus on the issue after it emerged Clapham chemical attack suspect Abdul Ezedi won the right to remain in the UK after converting - despite friends describing him as a 'good Muslim'. MPs have raised concerns that migrants from majority Muslim countries are converting to Christianity in order to claim they are at risk of persecution in their home nations due to their religious beliefs. Sussex MP Tim Loughton raised the issue in Parliament on Wednesday, asking Prime Minister Rishi Sunak: 'The Archbishop of Canterbury has admitted that since taking office, the attendance at the Church of England has dropped by 15% and in the 10 years to Covid, the number of baptisms in the Church of England has fallen from 140,000-a-year to 87,000. 'So Christianity in the UK seems to be on the wane unless apparently, you are from a Muslim country in the middle of an asylum claim. We're now told one in seven occupants of the Bibby Stockholm have suddenly become practising Christians. A total of 40 men on board the Bibby Stockholm are said to be converting to Christianity. Pictured is an aerial view of the barge, which is moored in the Port of Portland Home Secretary James Cleverly is now seeking evidence on asylum seeker conversions 'Can I ask the Prime Minister that given that the Church of England has now issued secret guidance for clergy supporting asylum applications for these Damascene conversions, who is the church accountable to and are taxpayers being scammed by the Archbishop?' Mr Sunak replied that Mr Cleverly had requested more information on migrants converting to Christianity. Following Prime Minister's Questions, the Archbishop of Canterbury issued a statement hitting out at the 'mischaracterisation of the role of churches and faith groups in the asylum system'. 'It is the job of the government to protect our borders and of the courts to judge asylum cases,' he said. 'The church is called to love, mercy and do justice. 'I encourage everyone to avoid irresponsible and inaccurate comments - and let us not forget that at the heart of this conversation are vulnerable people whose lives are precious in the sight of God.' The Church of England has recently come under fire for allegedly 'facilitating industrial-scale bogus asylum claims', with former Home Secretaries Suella Braverman and Dame Priti Patel accusing church leaders of 'political activism'. Dave Rees, an elder at Weymouth Baptist Church, defended its decision to carry out a mass conversion of residents of the Bibby Stockholm - with six already baptised and a further 36 to follow. Speaking to BBC Radio 4 on Sunday, he said his church had a Farsi-speaking minister who knew the asylum seekers' language and cultural practices. 'Because we had this link we felt confident that the measures we put in place and the scrutiny we have, there's no reason we would doubt these asylum seekers,' Mr Rees said. He said some of the men claimed they had been Christians in their home countries, while others had completed a 11-week Alpha course, which seeks to introduce possible converts to the basics of the Christian faith. There has been renewed focus on the issue after it emerged Clapham chemical attack suspect Abdul Ezedi won the right to remain in the UK after converting 'Obviously, we need to make sure that they believe in Jesus, they believe in the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, they repent of their sins and also they want to start a new life in the church,' he said. 'And they have to give a public testimony at their baptism, which they did in a native language and was translated into English.' The Home Office has admitted it has no idea how many asylum seekers have been allowed to stay in the UK after converting to Christianity, as the hunt for Ezedi continues. READ MORE - Catholic AND Baptist churches helped Clapham chemical attack suspect Abdul Ezedi's asylum claim - despite him being a convicted sex attacker Advertisement It is believed that Afghan sex offender Ezedi persuaded churches to support his claim, and was even given a written testimonial by a Baptist minister as well as additional backing from the Catholic church, sources told the Mail. The findings of Mr Cleverly's investigation are set to form part of an internal review that he commissioned following the attack in south London last week. Home Office sources said that officials in the department have struggled to find data relating to how many asylum seekers have cited their apparent conversion to Christianity. A source previously told the Mail that a reference from a Baptist chapel in the North East, where Ezedi was living, was crucial in persuading an immigration tribunal that he had converted from Islam to Christianity. This led to him being allowed to stay in Britain on the grounds of human rights. 'The one that really made a difference was from the Baptist church,' a government source said. 'One personal written submission talked of knowing Ezedi for four years, he had been attending church and they thought he was a genuine convert.' Further backing was provided by the Catholic Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle, the source claimed. The Home Office has said caseworkers are trained to only grant protection to those in genuine need by assessing claims 'in the round' and not taking priests' testimony as 'determinative'. Restaurants owned by culinary giants like Heston Blumenthal have become targets in an emerging identity theft scam which sees crime gangs 'clone' the dining spots before opening up bank accounts and applying for loans. Companies House has confirmed that an investigation is under way after 750 identikit firms, with subtly misspelled names, were registered in the last six weeks. Restaurants, hotels and individuals which have been targeted so far include the Ritz, Zizzi and celebrity chef Yotam Ottolenghi. Scammers set up a business online on Companies House, often in the same location as an existing operation with subtly misspelled names. They then steal overdraft money from bank accounts they set up for the fake company. The emergence of the new scam has led to calls for reform into the way business in the UK are registered with one fraud expert describing Companies House as 'not fit for purpose.' Restaurants owned by culinary giants like Heston Blumenthal have become targets in an emerging identity theft scam (pictured) Restaurants, hotels and individuals which have been targeted so far include the Ritz, Zizzi and celebrity chef Yotam Ottolenghi (pictured) Speaking to the BBC, fraud analyser graham Barrow explained that glaring issues in Companies House's checks mean there is currently no way to stop the scam. Attack of the Clones: How the scam works Scammers set up a business online on Companies House, often in the same location as an existing operation with subtly misspelled names. They then steal overdraft money from bank accounts they set up for the fake company. They can also order luxury goods which are delivered whilst invoices remain unpaid. Scammers must provide the identity of one director before registering a company. This information is pulled from social media or data leaks. Advertisement He explained: 'There's been this rise of identity theft, and the requirement for all of us to provide bills, passports or a driving licence, even if you want to get a library ticket from your local council. 'Companies House requires none of that.' Mr Barrow went on to describe how the situation was 'scandalous' with knock on effects of the scam costing banks 'hundreds of millions.' In many cases, restaurants are cloned by registering companies that sound like they're an association of well known brands and people. In one case, a fake Zizzi in Cambridge was registered as 'Zizzi - Caambridge' - with an extra 'a' added to divert attention. Heston Blumethal was also targeted in this way, with the registration of 'Dinner By Heston Blumenthall' complete with an extra 'l'. Yotam Ottolenghi's firm has vowed to take 'robust action' against impersonators after a business named Ottolenghii Limited was created. Amazingly, even the Ritz has been targeted with the completely illegitimate Ritz Restaurant Limited set up in December last year. Michelin-starred chef Alexis Gauthier was also stunned to see that his own company 'APJ Gauthier Limited' had been cloned as 'Gauthier Soho Restaurant Limited' - a name the chef begrudgingly admits is better. Amazingly, even the Ritz has been targeted with the completely illegitimate Ritz Restaurant Limited set up in December last year He told the BBC: 'What was really surprising is they managed to create this company at the same address as my restaurant. It's hard enough for us independent restaurants in central London to day in, day out, do the best we can do. 'We don't really need this on top of everything else we have to deal with.' It's thought that any changes to the way UK business registrations are handled could take 18 months to implement. A spokesman for Companies House said: 'In the longer term we will be requiring company directors and people who file information to verify their identity to ensure they are who they say they are," a spokesperson said. 'These changes will enable us to crack down on the use of false addresses and other misuse of the register.' This is the shocking moment Britain's ambassador to Russia accuses Putin trolls of harassing him on a visit to Urals city of Yekaterinburg. In footage of the incident, envoy Nigel Casey is heard accusing the Russian men of 'harassment' and a 'gross violation' of the rights of diplomats. One of the men tells the ambassador: 'We would like to invite you to take a walk around Crimea, where your [British] missiles are being fired at civilians.' Under international law, Crimea is Ukrainian territory, but it was annexed by Russia in 2014 and has been under Moscow's control ever since. Since Putin's all-out invasion of Ukraine, UK-supplied Storm Shadow missiles have been deployed by Kyiv's military against military targets in Crimea. This is the shocking moment Britain's ambassador to Russia accuses Putin trolls of harassing him on a visit to Urals city of Yekaterinburg In the video, one of the men adds: 'Please tell me your colleague previously recruited young people here in order to raise them as agents of influence and...' Casey, speaking in Russian, interrupts the man: 'There is no need for such harassment.' The pro-Putin troll replies: 'I'm not harassing.' But Casey tells him: 'This is a gross violation of the Vienna Convention.' The treaty governs the rights of diplomats to work unfettered. The ambassador - who arrived in Russia last year - was asked: 'But you don't want to walk around Crimea calmly like this, where your missiles are firing at civilians? 'I'll keep you company. Don't you want?' He was also taunted: 'It's just that you're walking around Russian soil so calmly after lunch now. Lunch with the taste of the blood of Russian soldiers is well absorbed in Yekaterinburg.' The video opened with the men approaching Casey and what appear to be two of his staff as they walk through a snowy neighbourhood, with high-rise apartment blocks rising in the background. There are a number of Russian men already armed with cameras, suggesting the ambush of the British ambassador was pre-planned stunt. Their interaction starts by one of the men greeting Casey as 'old friend' before asking if he can pose some questions to him. 'No, thanks' Casey replies. In footage of the incident, envoy Nigel Casey is heard accusing the Russian men of 'harassment' and a 'gross violation' of the rights of diplomats. The Russian troll is heard suggesting that the diplomat is in the region 'secretly' Casey explained to the man who confronted him that he was in the Urals for a visit to the British consulate, as men with cameras filmed the interaction Casey told the man that the confrontation 'is a gross violation of the Vienna Convention' - a treaty that governs the rights of diplomats to work unfettered One of the men tells the ambassador: 'We would like to invite you to take a walk around Crimea, where your [British] missiles are being fired at civilians' Are a number of Russian men were armed with cameras, suggesting the ambush of the British ambassador was pre-planned stunt He does not stop to talk to the men, but instead continues walking, explaining that he's in the region to visit a British consulate there after the Russian man suggests that he was visiting the region 'secretly'. At the end of the interaction, Casey is then seen getting into a dark grey Range Rover with a red diplomatic number plate. The men appear to make no reference to the fact that Russia is the aggressor in the war, having invaded Ukraine in February 2022. Russian missiles have struck countless civilian sites, including homes, killing thousands. The UK announced it was supplying the missiles to the Ukrainian military in May 2023, and since then, they are believed to have been used in a number of strikes. The missiles gave the Ukrainian military a significant boost in the conflict as they are capable of striking targets at much longer ranges than had been previously possible, including sites in Russian-occupied Crimea. In September 2023, Storm Shadow missiles were used to strike Russia's key port in Sevastopol - the capital of Crimea - seriously damaging a Russian submarine and the landing ship 'Minsk'. Some reports said the ship was destroyed. Nine days later, another Storm Shadow missile struck Putin's Black Sea headquarters in the same city, where Ukraine said a meeting of the Russian Navy's top brass was being held. Kyiv said 34 officers were killed in the strike, including Russia's commander of the Black Sea fleet - a massive blow to Moscow's forces. When he took up his duties in November, Casey said: 'Few of the issues currently facing us are more important than ending the human suffering caused by Russia's invasion of Ukraine.' Pictured: British ambassador to Russia Nigel Casey is seen in Moscow near the Kremlin Zametki Volanda Telegram channel made the absurd and paranoid claim that Casey was in Yekaterinburg as a 'preliminary reconnaissance' to search for new agents and create a spy network under the auspices of the British Embassy in Moscow. It claimed: 'He is fooling Russian youth, giving them false hopes, pushing them towards anti-government provocations and protests.' The British Embassy said: 'The British Ambassador visited Yekaterinburg on a routine official visit to our Consulate-General, which was notified in advance to local authorities. 'Our diplomats have the right to go about their work without being harassed.' This video is no longer available This video is no longer available This is the emotional moment a young girl was rescued after 60 hours buried alive by a landslide which killed 15 this week, bringing tragedy and chaos to the Philippines. Search teams heralded the 'miracle' discovery on Mindanao island after days desperately clawing with their bare hands and shovels in search of as many as 100 people reported missing since the disaster. Video from Masara village showed a rescuer carrying the crying, mud-caked child in his arms as he rushed her back to her father before she was taken to a medical facility for a check-up. 'It's a miracle,' disaster agency official Edward Macapili of Davao de Oro said, adding that searchers had believed the missing were probably dead. 'That gives hope to the rescuers. A child's resilience is usually less than that of adults, yet the child survived.' 'We can see in the social media posts that the child did not have any visible injuries,' Macapili said. A child is rescued from the rubble of a landslide in the Philippines after 60 hours trapped The child was taken back to her father before being taken off to a medical centre for a check up An official said that from video evidence the child did not appear to have any injuries The devastating landslide struck Tuesday night, destroying houses and engulfing three buses and a jeepney waiting to pick up workers from a gold mine. At least 15 people were killed and 31 injured, while more than a hundred are still missing, official figures show. Searchers were in a race against time and weather to find anyone else alive in the thick mud as rain fell over the area on Friday. While rescuers were using heavy earth-moving equipment in places, they had to rely on their bare hands and shovels in areas where they believed there were bodies. Sniffer dogs were also being used to detect those buried in the mud and rubble. Landslides are a frequent hazard across much of the archipelago nation due to the mountainous terrain, heavy rainfall, and widespread deforestation from mining, slash-and-burn farming and illegal logging. Rain has pounded parts of Mindanao on and off for weeks, triggering dozens of landslides and flooding that have forced tens of thousands of people into emergency shelters. Hundreds of families from Masara and four nearby villages have had to evacuate from their homes and shelter in emergency centres for fear of further landslides. Schools across the municipality have suspended classes. The area hit by the landslide had been declared a 'no build zone' after previous landslides in 2007 and 2008, Macapili said. 'People were asked to leave that place and they were given a resettlement area, but the people are so hard-headed and they returned,' he said. Massive earthquakes have also destabilised the region in recent months. On December 2, the Philippines were hit by three major offshore earthquakes. The country was forced to impose a tsunami warning after a 7.6 magnitude quake struck. Felt hundreds of miles away, the tremor also prompted tsunami warnings in the southern Philippines, Japan, parts of Indonesia, Palau and Malaysia. A pregnant woman was said to have died and four were injured, according to contemporary reports. Residents are seen on a trucks evacuating from a landslide-hit the village of Masara in Maco, Davao de Oro, southern Philippines on February 7, 2024 Rescuers carry a body bag as search and rescue operations continue in the landslide-hit village of Masara, Maco, Davao de Oro, Philippines, February 8, 2024 Rescuers and police retrieve a victim following a landslide in the village of Masara, Maco, Davao de Oro, Philippines, February 8, 2024 Tremors, also hitting the island of Mindanao, struck at a depth of 20 miles at about 10:37 pm local time (1437 GMT) about 13 miles northeast of Hinatuan, the United States Geological Survey said. Some 45,000 residents in the municipality were ordered to leave their homes and many were evacuating on foot or in vehicles to higher ground, a local police official said. A Houthi-run court in Yemen has sentenced 13 people to public execution on homosexuality charges, a judicial source said, as human rights groups decried a rise in abuses by the Iran-backed rebels. The sentences were handed down in Ibb, a province controlled by the Houthis whose attacks on Red Sea shipping since November have prompted retaliatory strikes by the United States and Britain. Three others were jailed on similar charges, according to the judicial source, who spoke to AFP on condition of anonymity because he is not authorised to speak to the press. Another 35 people have been detained by Houthis in Ibb province on homosexuality charges, the source said. Those condemned to the death penalty on charges of homosexuality in Yemen are typically stoned to death, several human rights groups said. 'The Houthis are ramping up their abuses at home while the world is busy watching their attacks in the Red Sea,' said Niku Jafarnia, a Yemen researcher from Human Rights Watch. 'If they really cared about the human rights they purport to be standing up for in Palestine, they wouldn't be flogging and stoning Yemenis to death,' she said. Houthi supporters attend a rally in support of the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and against the U.S.-led airstrikes on Yemen, in Sanaa, Yemen, Friday, Jan. 26, 2024 Houthi fighters march during a rally of support for the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and against the U.S. strikes on Yemen outside Sanaa on Monday, Jan. 22, 2024 Yemeni tribesmen belonging to the Houthi movement participate in a popular parade and rally held to support Palestinians and against the US-UK aerial attacks on Yemen, on February 7, 2024 Videos shared with AFP, which could not be independently verified, showed a judge in a court reading out the death sentences on Sunday. It was not immediately clear when the executions were due be carried out, and the sentences are open to appeal. Death sentences are not always carried out by the Houthis, who control Yemen's most populated areas and have been engaged in a long-running war with a Saudi-led coalition. A 2022 report by the Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor said the Houthis have sentenced 350 people to death since seizing the capital in 2014, and have executed 11 of them. NGOs say rights abuses have increased since the Houthis started their harassment of Red Sea shipping, avowedly in protest at the Israel-Hamas war. In December, Yemeni human rights activist Fatima Saleh Al-Arwali was sentenced to death on charges of spying for the United Arab Emirates, a member of the military coalition that intervened in Yemen in 2015 in support of government forces. All the while, Houthi ships, drones and missiles continue to target shipping vessels in the Red Sea, prompting allied nations to launch retaliatory strikes. The US military conducted new airstrikes on rebel targets overnight, officials said early this morning. American forces destroyed four explosive-loaded drone boats and seven mobile anti-ship cruise missile launchers Thursday that could target vessels in the Red Sea, the US military's Central Command said. 'They presented an imminent threat to US Navy ships and merchant vessels in the region,' Central Command said. 'These actions will protect freedom of navigation and make international waters safer and more secure for US Navy and merchant vessels.' The Houthis have not acknowledged the losses. Since November, the rebels have repeatedly targeted ships in the Red Sea over Israel's offensive in Gaza. But they have frequently targeted vessels with tenuous or no clear links to Israel, imperiling shipping in a key route for trade among Asia, the Mideast and Europe. A Yemeni tribesman belonging to the Houthi movement holds his rifle with a poster of the Houthis emblems while participating in a popular parade and rally held to support Palestinians Yemeni tribesmen belonging to the Houthi movement participate in a popular parade and rally held to support Palestinians and against the US-UK aerial attacks on Yemen, on February 7, 2024 Yemeni tribesmen belonging to the Houthi movement participate in a popular parade and rally held to support Palestinians and against the US-UK aerial attacks on Yemen, on February 7, 2024, in Sana'a, Yemen In recent weeks, the United States and the United Kingdom, backed by other allies, have launched airstrikes targeting Houthi missile arsenals and launch sites for its attacks. A German frigate set sail Thursday to take part in the European Union mission to help defend cargo ships from Houthi attacks. EU foreign ministers are expected to sign off on a Red Sea mission on Feb. 19 with seven countries ready to provide ships or planes. The Hessen, carrying about 240 sailors, is expected to be in place once the EU mission has the official go-ahead and the German parliament has approved its participation. The Houthis, from Yemen's mountainous north, belong to the Zaidi minority, an offshoot of Shiite Islam. The hardline force, founded with the aim of pushing for a theocracy, emerged in the 1990s, rising up over alleged neglect of their region. It has been fighting a pro-government coalition led by powerful neighbour Saudi Arabia since 2015, a conflict that has left hundreds of thousands dead and millions on the brink of famine. The founder and former leader of the International House of Prayer (IHOPKC) has been accused of sexually abusing a teenager more than 20 years ago. Mike Bickle, 68, has been accused of abusing Tammy Woods, whose family attended his church in Missouri, in the early 1980s when she was 14 years old and acting as a babysitter for his young children. Woods, now 57, told the Kansas City Star that Bickle's alleged abuse occurred in the minister's car, office, in the church and at her home. She claims it began with kissing, but later progressed to fondling and Bickle moving on top of her 'until he released.' She said they never had intercourse, but detailed apparent emotional manipulation, alleging Bickle would tell her he loved her, mentor her in her faith and even convinced her that he believed his wife Diane would die and 'we could be together'. Woods is the second woman to accuse Bickle of sexual abuse. The first alleged victim, identified only as Jane Doe, claimed last October that the minister used prophecy to sexually abuse her in the late 1990s. IHOPKC permanently separated from Bickle just weeks after Doe's allegations come to light. Bickle, on December 12, released a statement admitting that two decades ago he 'sinned by engaging in inappropriate behavior' but added he was not 'admitting to the more intense sexual activities that some are suggesting'. Founder and former leader of the International House of Prayer Mike Bickle, 68, (pictured) has been accused of abusing Tammy Woods (not pictured) in the early 1980s while she was a babysitter for his young children. She was 14 at the time Woods claimed the alleged abuse involved fondling and other sexual acts. She claimed Bickle would tell her he loved her, mentor her in her faith and even convinced her that he believed his wife Diane would die and 'we could be together'. Mike Bickle is pictured with his wife Diane Woods said she first met Bickle while attending a potluck at a church member's home in St Louis in the 1980s. The minister allegedly about her age and was surprised to learn she was only 14. He then invited her to babysit his two sons, who at the time were both under the age of two. She would regularly watch his kids of Monday nights while Bickle and Diane went on dates. At the same time, Bickle - then 25 years old - reportedly become a spiritual mentor for Woods who recalled 'coming alive in those things and wanting a relationship with the Lord'. Woods claims the church leader had befriended her parents and would provide rides for her and her sister when her parents were unavailable. She recalled how one time, when she was alone with Bickle in his car, the minister pulled over and asked her if she had feelings for him. She nervously nodded 'yes' in reply and claims he said he felt the same way. This apparently spearheaded their relationship. Woods claims that at Bickle's request she would call his direct line from a school payphone during her lunch hour. He reportedly would talk about what was doing, books he was reading and tell her how he was 'thinking of her, missed her and looked forward to seeing her'. Bickle's alleged abuse did turn physical, with Woods recalling how he would embrace her, play with her hair and kissed her for the first time at her family home when no one was around. 'He would kiss my neck, he would kiss my cheeks, he would kiss my forehead,' she told the newspaper. 'But the first, like, "kiss" kiss was in my house. He kind of pulled me into my bathroom. And he kissed me like a man kisses a woman.' Following the kiss, the physical activity progressed to fondling and other sexual acts, she recalled. Woods said: 'He did touch me. And so he moved my hand to touch him sexually. And he did touch me in return.' Woods is the second woman to accuse Bickle (pictured) of sexual abuse. The first alleged victim, identified only as Jane Doe, said t last October that the minister used prophecy to sexually abuse her in the late 1990s IHOPKC permanently separated from Bickle, pictured with his wife Diane, just weeks after Doe's allegations come to light Bickle, on December 12, released a statement admitting that two decades ago he 'sinned by engaging in inappropriate behavior' but added he was not 'admitting to the more intense sexual activities that some are suggesting' Bickle was reportedly remorseful after their sexual encounters, said Woods, claiming he she 'witnessed him genuinely weep and repent'. She said he would 'ask the Lords forgiveness' and for 'my forgiveness', as well as tell her: 'We cant do this again.' However, she alleged the abuse continued and that Bickle warned her if their relationship were to come to light she would have to 'own it' because he was a minister and father. Bickle moved from St Louis to Kansas City in 1983, which Woods described as having devastated her. She said she 'made a vow to him' that she 'would cover him in love to the grave.' She told the newspaper that they remained in contact throughout Woods' high school and college years, noting he declined to attend her wedding in 1988 because it would be too 'painful'. Bickle spoke at her church in St Louis in 1993 and would call her a few times a year, Woods said, before telling her in 1996 - while staying with her family on a trip - that they needed to 'cut things completely off'. Around the same time that Bickle ended all communication with Woods, he reportedly began an inappropriate relationship with Doe in Kansas City. He launched IHOPKC in 1999 and returned to St Louis in 2001 in a bid to try and create a house of prayer in the area. Woods, who had not spoken with Bickle for five years, claims that at this point their relationship had changed. Her three children referred to him as 'Uncle Mike' and she believed the pair could be 'distant friends' and 'co-laborers in a similar ministry'. She did not tell anyone about the alleged abuse for 43 years, but decided to come forward after Doe's allegations were made public. Woods informed her husband, pastor and select family members about the situation last week and filed a report with St Louis police on Saturday. She hopes that sharing her story 'helps the others to find their voice'. IHOPKC's report stated that Bickle (pictured) also admitted to having inappropriate contact on three occasions between 2002 and 2003 with another woman who was connected to the church. Bickle described the instances as 'consensual sexual contact that involved her touching me but not me touching her' and said the pair stopped after having 'both agreed it was wrong' Doe told The Roys Report that Bickle sexually abused her from 1996 until 1993, when she was 19 and he was 42. She claims they had sexual encounters that included everything except intercourse. Her allegations led to Bickle's removal from the international prayer movement and prompted IHOPKC to launch an independent investigation into his alleged misconduct. Bickle released a statement ion December 12 admitting that two decades ago, he 'sinned by engaging in inappropriate behavior' and said his 'moral failures were real'. He claimed to remain 'sorrowful about those past failures' but said that there have been 'many misrepresentations of my words and actions' including statements that are 'out of content, greatly exaggerated or blatantly false'. IHOPKC announced that it was 'immediately, formally and permanently' separating from Bickle 10 days later, on December 22, after having confirmed 'a level of inappropriate behavior' on his behalf. The report stated that Bickle also admitted to having inappropriate contact on three occasions between 2002 and 2003 with another woman who was connected to IHOPKC. Bickle reportedly described the instances as 'consensual sexual contact that involved her touching me but not me touching her'. He said the pair stopped after having 'both agreed it was wrong'. MailOnline has approached Bickle for comment via Instagram, as well as reached out to IHOPKC attorney Audrey Manito. Police have shot and arrested an armed man on Melbourne's Princes Bridge after two separate incidents including an alleged peak hour stabbing rampage. At least three people are said to have been stabbed by a blood-stained man wielding a broken glass bottle during the terrifying chaos, close to a tram stop. The victims reportedly suffered frightening cuts and bruises before their attacker, who was said to be having a mental health episode, was subdued by police. But as they arrested the first man, a second man - who was unrelated to the first incident - also confronted police and threatened them with broken glass. Two officers tried to overpower him with pepper spray but that had no effect. When the man continued to threaten them, one officer opened fire and shot him, said Victoria Police. One man who saw the incident told Daily Mail Australia he heard the police operation taking place from a bar on Flinders Street. '[I heard] three shots from the bar and onlookers turned to see a man bleeding,' he said. A man has been shot by police in terrifying scenes as Princes Bridge in Melbourne (pictured) Officers were seen pinning them man to the ground on the bridge (pictured) as emergency crews blocked the area off to motorists and pedestrians Three women - aged 24, 46, and 56 were taken to hospital in a stable condition after they were treated for bruises and lacerations to their upper body. A 67-year-old man was taken to St Vincent's Hospital in a stable condition after he too was treated for non life-threatening injuries to his upper body. The man aged in his 20's who was shot by police suffered non-life threatening injuries to his upper body and was taken to The Alfred Hospital in a stable condition where he currently remains. Victoria Police said protective services officers (PSO) responded to the initial incident before they were confronted by the second man. 'A man has been injured during a PSO shooting in Melbournes CBD,' said a police spokesman. 'Police and PSOs were responding to an unrelated incident on the Princes Street Bridge at 5.30pm. 'Its believed a man armed with broken glass confronted several PSOs. 'Two PSOs have deployed OC spray which didnt appear to have any affect. One PSO discharged his firearm, with the man being struck once.' The man was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Police said the incident was not terror related and is currently being investigated by officers. It followed another unrelated incident when a 27-year-old man was arrested in connection with an alleged attempted robbery and assault. Officers were told the man initially boarded a tram where he allegedly unsuccessfully attempted to rob a passengers before exiting at Princes Bridge. 'It's alleged the man then assaulted four people with a glass bottle, before he was arrested at the scene,' a statement said. A 67-year-old Warneet man, a 56-year-old Collingwood woman, a 24-year-old Kennington woman and a 46-year-old Hoppers Crossing woman were all taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The arrested South Melbourne man was helping police with their enquiries. The stabbing victims were treated at the scene for injuries by paramedics as a fleet of ambulances and emergency service vehicles flocked to the scene. Three ambulance vehicles, two police officers on horseback and multiple police cars raced to the Yarra River bridge location, close to the busy Flinders Street Station near the CBD. Parts of the city centre were shut down by police to divert motorists away from the area. Video footage taken by one witness which was uploaded to social media showed police officers pinning the man down onto the ground on the bridge. Several other officers surrounded the man and stood over him as he was being seized and disarmed. Officers were also seen crowding around the man near an ambulance as emergency services blocked access to the bridge. A Dozens of police officers were at the scene (pictured) with sections of the bridge cordoned off Pedestrians were ordered to clear the area with dozens of onlookers watching on as the dramatic police operation unfolded. Sections of the bridge were cordoned off with several police vehicles on the bridge. Shocked onlookers were seen taking photos while the incident unfolded as many stopped to ask police what had happened. The left side of Princes Bridge heading towards Flinders Street Station was blocked off to pedestrians. Trams however were allowed to pass through but officers directed pedestrians away to the other side of the walkway on the bridge and towards Southgate. Police have urged anyone with information or CCTV footage to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Russian President Vladimir Putin mocked former Fox News' host Tucker Carlson's failure to get into the CIA after college during their controversial interview that was broadcast Thursday night. The issue arose when Putin blamed, without any pushback from Carlson, that the CIA was responsible for the 2014 Revolution of Dignity in Ukraine. The movement began after the then-Russia friendly government of the country was peacefully overthrown by mass protests following the rejection of a co-operation deal with the European Union. When Carlson asked who backed the overthrow, Putin replied: 'With the backing of CIA, of course, the organization you wanted to join back in the day, as I understand. We should thank God they didn't let you in. Although it is a serious organization, I understand.' The Russian president then pointed to his own history working as an intelligence officer. Putin brought up Carlson's ill-fated attempt to join the CIA as he accused the agency of being involved in the overthrow of Ukraine's Russia-friendly government in 2014 Carlson did not reply to Putin's jibe A 2017 New Yorker feature detailed Carlson's attempts to join the CIA after he struggled to graduate from the prestigious Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut. The piece said that the agency 'prefers not to hire young men who are gabby and insubordinate.' Meanwhile, a college friend told Business Insider in a similar feature in 2022 that Carlson's rejection may have been because he was 'too honest' in his application. 'He mentioned that he had applied and they rejected him because of his drug use. He was too honest on his application. I also probably should say I don't know whether he was telling the truth or not,' the friend said. Most of the interview, released Thursday, focused on Ukraine, where the war is nearing the two-year mark. Putin repeated his claim that his invasion of Ukraine, which Kyiv and its allies described as an unprovoked act of aggression, was necessary to protect Russian speakers in Ukraine and prevent the country from posing a threat to Russia by joining NATO. Putin pointed at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's refusal to conduct talks with the Kremlin. He argued that it's up to Washington to stop supplying Ukraine with weapons and convince Kyiv, which he called a U.S. 'satellite,' to sit down for negotiations. 'We have never refused negotiations,' Putin said. 'You should tell the current Ukrainian leadership to stop and come to a negotiating table.' Putin warned that the West will never succeed in inflicting a 'strategic defeat' on Russia in Ukraine and rejected allegations that Russia was harboring plans to attack Poland or other NATO countries. It was Putin's first interview with a Western media figure since his full-scale invasion of Ukraine two years ago. White House national security spokesman John Kirby tried to minimize the impact of Carlson's interview ahead of its release: 'Remember, you're listening to Vladimir Putin. And you shouldn't take at face value anything he has to say.' Putin has heavily limited his contact with international media since he launched the war in Ukraine in February 2022. Russian authorities have cracked down on independent media, forcing some Russian outlets to close, blocking others and ordering a number of foreign reporters to leave the country. Two journalists working for U.S. news organizations The Wall Street Journal's Gershkovich and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty's Alsu Kurmasheva are in jail. The despot made the jaw-dropping accusations during the much anticipated two-hour long sit-down interview with former Fox News presenter Tucker Carlson Vladimir Putin outrageously claimed last night that he was ready to sign a deal to end the war with Ukraine 18 months ago but Boris Johnson scuppered the deal Asked by Carlson whether Russia would release Gershkovich, Putin said Moscow is open to talks but repeated that the reporter was charged with espionage, an accusation Gershkovich has denied. 'He was caught red-handed when he was secretly getting classified information,' Putin said of Gershkovich, adding that he doesn't exclude that the reporter could return home. 'There is no taboo on settling this issue,' Putin said. 'We are ready to solve it but there are certain conditions that are being discussed between special services. I believe an agreement can be reached.' He pointed to a man imprisoned in a 'U.S.-allied country' for 'liquidating a bandit' who killed Russian soldiers during the fighting in the Caucasus: 'He put our soldiers taken prisoners on a road and then drove a car over their heads. There was a patriot who liquidated him in one of the European capitals.' Putin didn't mention names, but he appeared to refer to Vadim Krasikov, a Russian serving a life sentence in Germany after being convicted of the 2019 brazen daylight killing of Zelimkhan 'Tornike' Khangoshvili, a 40-year-old Georgian citizen of Chechen ethnicity. German judges who convicted Krasikov said he had acted on the orders of Russian federal authorities, who provided him with a false identity, a fake passport and the resources to carry out the hit. The Wall Street Journal reaffirmed in a statement that Gershkovich 'is a journalist, and journalism is not a crime,' adding that 'any portrayal to the contrary is total fiction.' 'We're encouraged to see Russia's desire for a deal that brings Evan home, and we hope this will lead to his rapid release and return to his family and our newsroom,' it said. Family and friends of missing mum Samantha Murphy to be probed The search for missing mum Samantha Murphy will be dramatically scaled back this the weekend after six days of hunting failed to find a single trace of her. Detectives from Victoria Police's specialist Missing Persons unit will take charge of the investigation into the disappearance of the Ballarat woman, police confirmed on Friday. Crews from the Country Fire Authority and State Emergency Service volunteers have also been told to withdraw from the search. Late on Friday, Victoria Police confirmed the 'current phase of the active search' would be scaled back over the weekend. 'An extensive six-day search has been conducted involving local police, along with personnel from the search and rescue squad, mounted branch and dog squad, plus significant assistance from members of the SES and CFA,' a statement read. 'Police continue to be in regular contact with Samantha's family regarding the developments of the search and the status of the investigation. 'The investigative stage of the investigation continues and as any new information comes to hand identifying areas of interest, the search will be scaled up.' The search for missing mum Samantha Murphy will be scaled back over the weekend as it entered its sixth day with little information on her whereabouts Specialist teams will continue to search despite volunteers being scaled back over the weekend. After an extensive search of the surrounding area produced no leads, detectives from the missing persons squad were handed control of the investigation on Friday. 'While no sinister factors have been identified in her disappearance at this time, there are significant concerns given it has now been six days without her being sighted or any signs of her current whereabouts,' police said in a statement. The squad will have the ability to expand resourcing from specialist investigative units across the crime command. 'It is especially concerning that we have now gone six days without any contact from her or any potential sightings,' Detective Acting Superintendent Mark Hatt said in a statement. It comes less than 24 hours after Acting Inspector Lisa McDougall told media the disappearance was not being treated as suspicious. 'There are no suspicious circumstances that we've identified at this stage,' she said. But police insist her disappearance is still not being treated as 'sinister'. 'We haven't received any information relating to her movements from the moment she left [her] home address on Sunday morning,' Detective Acting Superintendent Mark Hatt said on Friday morning. Detective Hatt added missing persons investigators had more resources and experts that could help with the search. Detectives from Victoria Police's specialist Missing Persons unit will take charge of the investigation into the disappearance of the Ballarat woman, police confirmed on Friday 'We haven't received any information relating to her movements from the moment she left [her] home address on Sunday morning,' Detective Acting Superintendent Mark Hatt said 'There will certainly be additional detectives from crime command attending the Ballarat area today and in coming days,' he said. The focus has moved to the town of Buninyong, 15 minutes south of Ballarat. Anyone who may have driven through the area with dashcam footage from 7am to 7pm on Sunday is being asked to come forward. Ms Murphy, 51, left her home on Eureka Street in East Ballarat, north-west of Melbourne, to go for a run in Woowookarung Regional Park just after 7am on Sunday and has not been seen since. Detective Hatt told reporters detectives would now look into Ms Murphy's movements and interactions with others in the days before she vanished. Michael Murphy, the husband of missing mum Samantha Murphy has been pictured leaving Buninyong Police Station 'Absolutely, that will be a huge part of our investigation. Digging into the background, working out Samantha's movements in the days leading up to her disappearance and also double-so the people who know her,' he said. Part of the investigation - now dubbed Operation Primus - will see detectives trawl through Ms Murphy's computers and devices in the hope of finding clues. Superintendent Hatt said police were still working to ascertain who may have been in the area where Ms Murphy's phone lost communication with mobile phone towers. Her mobile phone had pinged in the nearby suburb of Buninyong before going dark. Superintendent Hatt said detectives were still working with phone companies to obtain data that might prove vital to shedding some light on the investigation. 'At this stage we can't share any information to that regard. We are still working with our telecommunication technicians to establish phone movements and who was in the area at the time,' he said. Detectives still remain puzzled about where Ms Murphy went upon leaving her home. CCTV footage showing Ms Murphy outside her home was the last confirmed sighting of her alive. Family remembers reported her missing after she failed to arrive for a brunch scheduled for that morning. 'I can also confirm that we have not identified any suspicious or sinister circumstances, however we do hold significant concerns for Samantha's welfare at this stage and that is growing as the days progress,' Superintendent Hatt said. Detective Acting Superintendent Mark Hatt (left) addressed a media pack outside Ballarat West Police Station on Friday He spent just an hour inside the station before leaving with an officer, who escorted him to his car Samantha Murphy, 51, left her home on Eureka Street in East Ballarat, north-west of Melbourne , to go for a run in Woowookarung Regional Park just after 7am on Sunday Superintendent Hatt said specialised police would flood the area in the desperate search for clues. 'In the coming days you'll see additional detectives working around the area,' he said. Just hours earlier, Mr Murphy smiled after meeting with detectives at Buninyong Police Station. He spent just an hour inside the station before leaving with an officer, who escorted him to his car. Mr Murphy appeared casual as a waiting media pack photographed him. The station is being used by emergency services units as the headquarters for its ongoing search for Ms Murphy. Victoria Police Inspector Bob Heaney said detectives were relying on information coming from the public to help track down Ms Murphy's whereabouts. 'You know, one of the challenges we have is the area where she normally runs, it's a fairly remote area,' he told Sunrise on Friday morning. 'It's within a forest and a lot of bushland and there is no CCTV coverage out there. That's been one of the challenges we've had to face.' Desperation grows as search enters sixth day One line of inquiry was officially ruled out on Thursday after police confirmed a woman pictured in CCTV was not Ms Murphy, as previously stated. Victoria Police had released CCTV footage on Wednesday which showed a person heading in a north-easterly direction toward Yankee Flat Road, near the intersection of Warrenheip Road. The woman was believed to have been Ms Murphy heading out for a 20km run through the state forest. Police and SES are seen combing through the Woowookarang National Park However, another runner came forward to reveal she was the person pictured. Inspector Heaney said the discovery had 'eliminated' a possible route Ms Murphy may have taken after she left home. He added police were still treating her disappearance as not suspicious, despite homicide detectives from the missing persons squad reportedly joining the search on Friday. 'Apart from covering a lot of terrain, a lot of area that we've physically searched looking for Samantha, we don't know a hell of a lot more,' he said. 'A lot of the information has come in (from the public) which we need to filter through which then allows us to review that and focus on where we need to search next.' CCTV of a woman believed to be Ms Murphy was later found to be another resident in the area Inspector Heaney confirmed Ms Murphy was wearing an Apple watch and had her phone with her at the time she vanished, but said the area police were able to track from her devices was 'limited'. In another setback on Wednesday, officers were alerted to 'items' possibly related to Ms Murphy's disappearance, however, it was later determined they did not belong to the missing mother. Locals in the area have also raised concerns the mother may have fallen in an abandoned mine shaft, which can be difficult to see on the forest floor. Distraught daughter calls for help to bring her mother home Earlier on Thursday, Ms Murphy's eldest daughter Jessica and husband Michael, issued a desperate plea for their loved one to return home. Through tears, Jessica urged the public to continue searching for her mum. 'Mum, we love you so much and we miss you and we need you at home with us, please come home soon, I can't wait to see you,' Jessica told reporters. 'Mum's a really strong woman, and she's far too determined to give up this fight.' Jessica's father thanked the community for their support in recent days as he appealed for answers. 'People just don't vanish into thin air,' Mr Murphy said. 'Someone has got to know something ... whether it be any little thing that you might think is relevant, just call the police, let them know. 'It'll give us a bit of peace of mind if we get some hope.' A $25,000 reward has been issued in Maryland after a three-year-old child was shot dead and his mother injured in a horrific shooting. The incident happened yesterday around 5.35pm in Langley Park, according to Prince George's County Assistant Police Chief Vernon Hale III. An officer nearby heard the shooting and found the mother and her young son with gunshot wounds. Both were taken to hospital, but the toddler was later pronounced dead, while his mother is in stable condition with non-life-threatening injuries, police said. Officers are now hoping for help from the community to find the suspects and even offer a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to an arrest and conviction. 'Somebody in this community knows who did this, so I'm asking each and everyone of you to contact your friends, your family and anyone else,' Hale told reporters at a news conference and appealed for residents to come forward. The incident happened around 5.35pm in Langley Park (scene pictured), according to Prince George's County Assistant Police Chief Vernon Hale III. An officer nearby heard the shooting and found the mother and her young son with gunshot wounds 'Somebody in this community knows who did this, so I'm asking each and everyone of you to contact your friends, your family and anyone else,' Hale (pictured center) told reporters at a news conference and appealed for residents to come forward Both shooting victims were taken to hospital, but the toddler was later pronounced dead, while his mother is in stable condition with non-life-threatening injuries, police said 'This is not about snitching, this is about justice for the victims,' he said and added that while the department would use every resource at their disposal to solve the shooting, they needed help. 'We need you, we need the media, we need the community, we need friends of these individuals, we need anybody that was here and saw this,' Hale said. The Assistant Police Chief also condemned the shooting and said: 'That young baby did nothing to anyone and did not deserve to die because someone must come out here to play with guns. 'Bullets come down and they have real consequences. I can only pray that they weren't trying to kill a child but I don't know at this point, it's too preliminary.' The police department's Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for Public Safety and Homeland Security, Barry Stanton, said at the same news conference that the 'violence in this community has to stop'. 'This today was a senseless act of violence that no community should accept, ever,' he added. Stanton also said he was 'frustrated over the loss of a three-year-old', particularly since he has a grandson of the same age. He said: 'This is frustrating and this is trauma. Not just on the community, but it's trauma on the police officers that had to investigate these kind of incidents.' Police revealed they have no suspects or suspect descriptions so far, but the department received several calls about the shooting already (the scene in Langley Park is pictured) The police department's Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for Public Safety and Homeland Security, Barry Stanton (pictured), said at the same news conference that the 'violence in this community has to stop' Police revealed they have no suspects or suspect descriptions so far, but the department received several calls about the shooting already. One neighbor said she knows the shooting victims and that her own daughter heard the gunshots. ''I came from work and my daughter said mom, did you hear any bullets? But I didn't think a baby and someone very close to me would get shot,' resident Maria Lara told 7News. 'I knew her. She was my neighbor, and I knew her kids well, too. I feel very worried because in this moment that she's going through.' Other residents interviewed by Fox5 said that the regularly saw the mother and her baby out and about but now 'will never see them together again'. Anyone with information is urged to call 1-866-411-TIPS or share a tip online via pgcrimesolvers.com. A Nigerian man who scammed dozens of British and American women out of more than 50,000 has shared a step-by-step guide to manipulating women online, despite insisting he is now living a 'good life' working for a fraud prevention agency. Christopher Smalling, 25, told how he spent six years lying to women to fleece them out of tens of thousands and stopped feeling guilt when he realised he could become rich. 'I used to feel bad but as time goes on and I started making good money - big money - I stopped feeling bad,' he told Sky News. His heartless scams led one elderly American woman to cough up $20,000, sending her spiralling into a depression that tore her family apart. Now, Smalling has released a handbook entitled 'How To Make A White Woman Fall In Love With You From Online Chat' - a 40-page guide of malevolence and manipulation he says is routinely used by Nigerian scammers to con unsuspecting people out of their hard-earned money. The book, whose author is not named, does not beat around the bush and reads like a military field manual - cold, calculating and utterly focused on the task at hand, describing victims as 'targets' and instructing its users with ruthless efficiency. Smalling has released a handbook entitled 'How To Make A White Woman Fall In Love With You From Online Chat' - a 40-page guide of malevolence and manipulation he says is routinely used by Nigerian scammers Maxwell says he scammed up to 30 women out of tens of thousands of pounds The opening line reads: 'When it comes to chatting white ladies up, you have to understand that they are different from Nigerian ladies,' and goes on to immediately instruct the reader to target vulnerable women older than 40. 'The types that will fall in love with you ASAP without much stress. Go for those over 40 - they are working hence they have the money you need. 'Also, being single at 40, they are eager for love,' it says. The book quickly delves into great detail, providing a range of scenarios and tactics that can be used to charm women with a complex web of lies from the first interaction. It tells readers to conduct an analysis of any and all publicly available information about the 'target', identifying personal details, hobbies, interests and significant factors that can be harnessed to strike up a conversation. And it provides an exhaustive list of pick-up lines, opening gambits and jokes that are constructed to make the scammer appear lighthearted, charming and genuinely interested - but non-threatening. Throughout, the guide instructs readers to write down any information they glean from their targets so it can be used later to manipulate them. It also encourages the reader to intermittently ask their subject more questions and show as much curiosity as possible, because '(white women) love to talk about themselves'. 'If you let them talk about themselves, they will think you care and will fall in love,' it says flatly, before going on to provide a list of 60 compliments to deploy in conversation at any time to keep the victim sweet. Finally, the handbook instructs readers to take their time and never to ask for money directly. Once a manipulator has gained the affection and trust of the subject, they are told to drop hints about financial struggles or spin a heartbreaking tale of how they themselves lost money. By broaching the subject of money in this way, the book says, victims will often offer money themselves without even needing to be asked. Smalling says he was arrested in Nigeria when his scam was revealed, but was never prosecuted. He also insists he felt so bad after hearing the American woman had become depressed that he came clean, and the victim connected him with Social Catfish, a company that works to identify and expose fraudsters while educating people about warning signs. Smalling now says he works with Social Catfish as a consultant, insisting his experience with his American victim has made him change his ways. But he has never had to answer for his crimes, nor has he paid any money back to his numerous victims. Maxwell said he began scamming women as a teenager As the handbook used by Smalling mentioned, older people are typically more likely to fall for so-called 'romance scams'. Lloyds Bank revealed earlier this week in a warning ahead of Valentine's Day that the number of those aged 55 to 64 who reported losing money to online dating criminals surged by 49 per cent in 2023. Romance scams involve fraudsters luring their target into an online relationship, then extorting them for cash. Victims typically lost an average of 6,937 to scammers. Banks say these types of scammers stole 31.3million in 2022, but Action Fraud believes the true figure is closer to 95million a year as many victims are too ashamed to report it. Men were marginally more likely to fall for a romance scam, accounting for 52 per cent of cases. But women typically handed over more money losing an average of 9,083 compared with 5,145 for men, Lloyds found. Those aged 65 to 74 were tricked out of the most money, at an average of 13,123. Liz Ziegler, fraud prevention director at Lloyds, said: 'Targeting those looking for love is a cruel, but sadly common, way for fraudsters to cash in. No good relationship starts off by sending money to someone you haven't met.' More than four in five people who fell victim to a romance scam said they were duped by the clever language used by the criminals, the way they were spoken to, or the intimate conversations they had - exactly the tactics and materials outlined in the handbook shared by Smalling. Such scams are by no means limited to dating apps. Paul Davis, financial crime prevention director at TSB, recently told the Home Affairs Committee: 'We did some work recently in my team where we used our own personal profiles on Facebook to engage with 100 sellers, 100 items, on Facebook Marketplace. 'Our assessment was that about a third of them were probably fraudulent.' Mr Davis said he had also recently seen a case involving a customer of more than 30 years who had fallen victim to a romance scam. He said: 'These are complex techniques that the fraudsters use, to convince people to do things that they later deeply regret, and we see that as a common theme across many scam types. 'It becomes increasingly challenging for us to counteract the methods that these criminals are using.' Referring to the criminals, Mr Davis said that, from speaking to victims: 'It is clear that these are not lone actors, this is organised fraud. 'Criminals specialise in different aspects of the organised fraud and work together, in a similar way (that) a corporate or a company in the UK would, to steal our cash. 'It's clear they operate around the world and this is not just something that a lone individual can do in their bedroom in the UK.' London's Hammersmith Bridge will finally reopen next week five years after it was closed on safety grounds but only to cyclists with motorists still being strictly prohibited from driving across the 137-year-old crossing. Hammersmith and Fulham Council has said the creation of temporary cycle lanes has come about due to a pause in the stabilisation works on the bridge caused by a boat full of West Ham fans being stuck underneath it in December. The boat carrying the supporters became stuck underneath the bridge and damaged part of the gantry, meaning works had to be paused. The cast-iron bridge shut to traffic in April 2019, after engineers found cracks in its pedestals. When the crossing deteriorated further during a heatwave in August 2020, it led to it being closed to all users. A spokesman for Hammersmith and Fullham Council said: 'Hammersmith Bridge made out of wood and wrought iron with the suspension held in place by cast iron pedestals is one of the world's oldest suspension bridges. London's Hammersmith Bridge will finally reopen next week five years after it was closed on safety grounds but only to cyclists Pedestrians view Hammersmith Bridge in November 2020 when the Victorian bridge was closed off for safety reasons The cost of repairing Hammersmith Bridge has rocketed to 250million after years of delays The bridge's gantry was damaged when a boat load of West Ham fans became stuck underneath it in December 'That's why, at 250m, it is also one of Britain's most expensive and complex to repair. 'Unfortunately, the Department for Transport (DfT) has delayed consideration of H&F's business case for the full restoration of the bridge, which would allow full use by motor vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians.' Talks over funding the repairs have reached a stalemate, with sources admitting that there is no sign of progress despite understandable fury from residents. Sarah Olney, the Liberal Democrat MP for Richmond Park, told the Standard: 'I think it's increasingly possible that it won't reopen to traffic.' The Victorian bridge, which used to carry 22,000 cars and 1,800 buses every day in 2015, was reopened to cyclists and pedestrians after safety checks found it was safe in 2021. Since 2019, drivers have had to cross the Thames via the Chiswick or Putney bridges. Hammersmith Bridge, pictured when cars could drive over it. There are fears the bridge will never see vehicle traffic again When the crossing first closed, the council estimated the cost of repairs would be 40million and expected TfL to pay up. But TfL said it was not liable to cough up the funding and appealed for government help. Pictured: Sadiq Khan The Department for Transport (DfT) wants Hammersmith and Fulham Council, which owns the bridge, and Transport for London (TfL) to each pay a third of the repairs costs, with the taxpayer funding the rest. But Ms Olney fumed that the DfT are the only organisation who have access to the amount of money required to make a difference. She added: 'No local authority has the means to foot a bill of this size.' She does not believe cars will be able to use the bridge for at least a decade. When the crossing first closed, the council estimated the cost of repairs would be 40million and expected TfL to pay up. But TfL said it was not liable to cough up the funding and appealed for government help. By 2021, the cost has soared to 141million and it is now said to have reached 250million. Hammersmith Bridge is one of the world's oldest mechanical suspension bridges and Grade-II listed. Designed by the noted 19th century civil engineer, Sir Joseph Bazalgette, it was built in 1887 and opened by the then Prince of Wales. It is London's lowest bridge, with a water clearance of just 12 feet at high tide, and one of the capital's weakest, which is why weight restrictions have been in place since 2015. Police have seized a collection of luxury supercars worth 1million including a Rolls Royce and an Aston Martin after finding them hidden in storage containers on an industrial estate. The high value vehicles were discovered at North Benfleet on February 5 after a police investigation into organised car crime. Officers recovered four vehicles which had been stolen from the Essex area and two from London. Essex Police's Stolen Vehicle Intelligence Unit (SVIU) led teams to carry out the raid. Officers found a Rolls Royce Cullinan worth 250,000, an Aston Martin DB11 valued at 70,000 and a Mercedes AMG GT valued at 40,000 at the scene, alongside a Range Rover Vogue. The high value vehicles were discovered at North Benfleet on February 5 after a police investigation into organised car crime Officers found a Rolls Royce Cullinan worth 250,000, an Aston Martin DB11 (pictured) valued at 70,000 and a Mercedes AMG GT valued at 40,000 at the scene Police say vehicles worth 1million have gone through the site A Jeep Wrangler and a Toyota Alphard were also located in two other storage containers. All six vehicles were intact. Further evidence gathered at the scene to support the investigation shows more vehicles have been through the site, with an estimated total value of just under 1 million. Chief Inspector Dan McHugh said: 'This was a great piece of work by all those involved. 'In just 12 hours from information being pieced together to obtaining a warrant, teams from across the force worked together to recover six high value cars. 'Our initial enquires estimate almost 1 million worth of cars may have gone through this site and the Rolls Royce was recovered just 24 hours after it was stolen. 'Our work doesn't end now we've found the cars: we'll continue to investigate to identify and arrest those responsible for the thefts and reunite the vehicles with their owners.' The raid was led by Essex Police's Stolen Vehicle Intelligence Unit (SVIU) The cars were found hidden in storage containers at an industrial site The specialist unit recovered more than 700 stolen vehicles last year. The team's District Commander added: 'Our SVIU play an important role in leading the force's response to tackle this type of crime. They regularly seize stolen cars within hours of them being taken, examine them and use that intelligence to locate other missing vehicles. 'Their intelligence-led approach shows their determination to tackle vehicle theft as a force priority in which we'll do all we can to disrupt offenders' activities by using and sharing intelligence with colleagues, partners and other forces and targeting the use of road networks in an effort to make Essex a hostile place to commit vehicle crime. 'We are dedicating time and resources to target criminals committing any form of vehicle crime and we'd ask the public to support us and get in contact with us if they have information that could help us locate a stolen vehicle or identify those concerned in vehicle crime.' The BBC has been criticised for 'dumbing down' Question Time after Take Me Out host Paddy McGuinness was invited onto the flagship debate show. Question Time commonly invites heavyweight politicians and media figures to answer questions from the audience on major issues of the day although other celebrities have appeared in the past, including Love Island's Amy Hart. McGuinness, 50, a comedian who has also presented Question of Sport, caused a stir when he claimed he 'admired' the timing of Sir Keir Starmer's latest U-turn and stuck the boot into the Tories. But the decision to feature him was branded 'bizarre' by viewers on X, with one accusing the BBC of 'reaching a new low of dumbing down'. Simon Trimnell wrote: 'Paddy McGuinness really? BBC are scraping the barrel for panelists, time for the plug to be pulled on QT.' Topical news panel show Question Time had an unexpected guest join it's line up on Thursday evening comedian and Take Me Out host Paddy McGuinness The BBC was accused of 'scraping the barrel' by inviting McGuinness on the political debate show Another viewer said: 'Why is Paddy McGuinness on Question Time? Is it another show that the BBC wants to get cancelled?' Others were more equivocal, with one questioning the wisdom of booking McGuinness before saying he was pleasantly surprised by his contribution. 'Never thought I'd say this, but Paddy McGuinness has come across very well on Question Time,' they wrote. 'I mean, it's a bizarre booking don't get me wrong, but he's certainly not embarrassed himself & he's expressed far more sensible views than many other ''celebrity'' bookings in the past.' It's not the first controversial booking for Question Time. In 2020, the actor Laurence Fox launched his political career on the show after entering a slanging match with an academic about Meghan Markle. The former Lewis star accused Rachel Boyle, an academic at Edge Hill University on Merseyside, of 'being racist' after she called him 'a white privileged male' for denying the Duchess of Sussex was hounded from Britain for being mixed-race. Meanwhile, in 2021, it was the turn of former Love Island star turned influencer Amy Hart - prompting one person to post that her appearance 'sums up everything that is wrong with this country'. A second added: 'And what actual qualifications does Amy Hart have. Influencer & Love Island! FFS!' During her appearance on the political debate show, the reality star called for police reform in the wake of the Sarah Everard murder case. Critics called it a 'new low' but others praised the TV presenter's performance McGuinness was joined last night by a panel including James Daly, the new Deputy Chair of the Conservatives and Wes Streeting, Labour's spokesman for health and social care. The TV host weighed in after Fiona Bruce questioned the panel about Sir Keir Starmer's decision to ditch a flagship pledge to spend 28billion a year on green projects which critics perceived as another embarrassing climbdown. She asked: 'With Labour dropping their flagship election promise, can we believe anything they pledge?' McGuinness answered: 'I see myself as a floating voter and I think in this day in age, certainly the past five years or so, politics seems to have been led by personality. 'And if you look at Boris Johnson and how he did it to get into power and that's a prime example then my worry with Keir Starmer is what he's said today. I don't know the ins and outs of it, but I almost kind of admire him for doing it now. Rather than after getting into power.' Making his debut on the BBC One programme, McGuinness, 50, said he 'admired' the timing of Keir Starmer's U-turn and stuck the boot into the Tories leaving viewers to have mixed reactions In another discussion, Paddy questioned the Tories' failed promise of 350million for the NHS McGuinness then launched into a passionate critique of the Conservatives, claiming they had 'decimated' the country over the past 14 years. This he said, made Labour a 'shoo-in' to win the next election. He added: 'I'll be flabbergasted if they don't get in. And I think him saying that, for me personally, well I'd hate for him to say that after he got in power. And then you feel even more let down. 'But with regards to the climate crisis, most people, most taxpayers, kind of do their bit you've got every colour bin outside your house, you put solar panels on your roof. And you do all the things you can try and to do help. But at the end of the day it's up to these lot, the government and big business. It's not on us. It's these lot who need to get their act together.' Some viewers were quick to take to social media to praise the comedian's comments. One wrote: '@bbcquestiontime Thank the lord for #PaddyMcguinness the voice that speaks for the common person. No bull, no fancy words. Give him the floor please.' 'Paddy McGuinness...the most honest panelist for a long, long time! Well done. #bbcqt', another said. F ormer Love Island star turned influencer Amy Hart appeared on the show in 2021 - prompting one person to post that her appearance ' sums up everything that is wrong with this country' A third added: 'Pleasantly surprised by the omnipresent Paddy McGuinness tonight - wasted on QoS should have been on QT all along.' Not all viewers were impressed with the Take Me Out star's appearance on the show, however. Writing on X, one viewer said: 'And what exactly is Paddy McGuinness bringing to the table? I always thought the 'idiot northerner' schtick was an act but clearly not. #bbcqt'. A second added: '#bbcqt oh dear, what the hellPaddy McGuinness on QT? This has got to be a wind up. Careful Fiona, he'll cancel your show like all the others he's been on. I switched over.' '@bbcquestiontime WTF is Paddy McGuinness doing On QT? No likey no lighty is just about his capabilities!' a third quipped. Elsewhere on the show, McGuinness quizzed the new deputy chairman of the Conservative Party, James Daly and questioned the notorious failed promise of 350 million for the NHS after Brexit. He quipped: 'Lucky for me, most people know I'm not here for my great political brain. But that didn't stop Boris Johnson, so that's alright.' Leading on a more serious note however, he continued: 'For me, James, you saying to Wes that Sir Keir Starmer is doing anything to get a vote is a bit rich coming from a Tory, let me tell you. We're still waiting on the 350million a week Boris Johnson promised us for the NHS.' A bride who tragically lost her leg after a 16-hour-delay for treatment on a blood clot has managed to take the distressing incident in her stride by incorporating it into a darkly humorous tattoo on her right leg which reads: 'They'll pinch owt these days.' Molly Harbron, 25, who is now reliant on a prosthetic leg and a wheelchair, was determined to stand in her wedding dress when she tied the knot with husband Daniel, also 25, last August. She lost her left leg in April 2020 during the coronavirus pandemic when doctors failed to treat her quickly enough when she complained of a tingling sensation. Doctors suspected that Molly, who is diabetic and susceptible to complications, had possible deep vein thrombosis, but failed to carry out adequate tests, eventually leaving them with no option but to remove the leg during surgery. As a result, a devastated Molly awoke to find that her left leg had been removed beneath the knee. Molly Habron lost her left leg in April 2020 during the coronavirus pandemic when doctors failed to treat her quickly enough for a blood clot Molly has incorporated her amputation into a darkly humorous tattoo on her right leg which reads: 'They'll pinch owt these days.' Molly Harbron before her leg was amputated following the errors made in her diagnosis Molly was determined to stand in her wedding dress when she tied the knot with husband Daniel last August She told the Telegraph: 'It was petrifying. I woke up and was shown that I had no leg. It was absolutely awful. 'I broke down in tears and was crying over the phone to my Mum. But I was all alone in the hospital because of lockdown restrictions, it felt like a nightmare. 'I remember joking with the surgeon before the operation and saying dont chop my leg off because youll make me an inch shorter. 'He responded Ill make you two inches shorter if you arent careful. Molly had attended Dewsbury Hospital A&E after her foot went numb but was then moved to Pinderfields Hospital for a scan before arriving at Leeds General Infirmary for a scan 16 hours later. Following the surgery, Molly spent a further 18 days in hospital and had to give up her job as a carer. She is now seeking compensation from the NHS saying: 'All I have is a letter saying sorry and thats not good enough.' She continued: 'Before all this, I was extremely active. I worked in a quite physically demanding job and enjoyed going out with my friends, shopping and all of the things people my age do. 'However, that's all completely gone. It's sometimes difficult to find the words to describe how my life has changed. 'It's not just the physical injuries which have been hard to come to terms with but also the psychological impact. 'I went from being quite independent to reliant on others. I do have a prosthetic leg but it's not specifically designed for me. 'I suffer walking any kind of distance and I suffer with pain when using it so I tend to use a wheelchair. 'This never should have happened so I just hope that by speaking out I can prevent it happening to someone else. 'After everything I'd been through I was determined I wasn't going to let it dictate my wedding.' Following the surgery, Molly spent a further 18 days in hospital and had to give up her job as a carer Molly is is now reliant on a prosthetic leg and a wheelchair to get around Molly says she was was determined the amputation wasn't going to let it dictate her wedding Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust, which runs Dewsbury and District Hospital, later admitted a breach of duty and apologised to Molly. If it was not for the breach of duty, Molly would have undergone surgery by 9pm on the day she attended hospital. On the balance of probabilities, the surgery would have been successful and would have avoided the need for both the below and above-knee amputation, the Trust admitted. Molly instructed expert medical negligence lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate her care under Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust. They are now working to agree on a settlement, which will fund the lifetime therapies, to support and rehabilitation Molly requires. Molly's lawyer Ashlee Coates, from law firm Irwin Mitchell, said: 'The last few years and coming to terms with the avoidable and life-changing consequences of Molly's amputation have understandably been extremely difficult for her and her family. 'What happened to her vividly highlights the repercussions of what can happen when patient care falls below expected standards. 'While nothing can make up for the physical and psychological trauma Molly has experienced, we're determined to ensure she can access the specialist care and therapies she needs to continue her recovery and live as independently as possible. 'In the meantime it's vital that lessons are learned to improve patient safety for others.' Richard Robinson, Chief Medical Officer at the Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust, admitted they needed to 'get better'. He said: 'We aim to ensure all patients get the right diagnosis and the treatment they need to get better. 'In Mrs Harbron's case that did not happen and for that I am sincerely sorry. 'Patient safety and achieving the best treatment results is a priority for us and we work continuously to improve.' Ex-Newsnight presenter Emily Maitlis has said she feels 'empathy' for the stalker who terrorised her for 27 years because he is suffering from an 'obsessional illness'. She has also said that the offence needs to be renamed as it is too closely associated with glamour and celebrities, rather than mental health. Maitlis - whose stalker Edward Vines was jailed for eight years last year - said we should re-frame how we look at such criminal behaviour and see it as an 'obsessional illness'. Too often, she said, it is linked to 'dark streets and high heels' rather than a mental health issue. The 53-year-old broadcaster said she is 'empathetic' towards Vines, who had a 27-year fixation on her, as he 'lost his whole life' over it. Maitlis urged for more mental health support across the country and insisted there was nothing 'glamorous' or 'celebrity-related' about stalking. Stalking needs to be renamed as it is too closely associated with glamour and celebrities, ex-Newsnight presenter and stalking victim Emily Maitlis (pictured) has said Edward Vines was jailed for eight years last year for stalking journalist Emily Maitlis Speaking on the Desperately Seeking Wisdom podcast, she said: 'Look, I think of (Edward Vines) as having kind of lost his whole life over this, quite frankly. 'Of course I feel, I feel empathetic to that. 'I think the trouble with stalking is that in our heads it sounds sort of celebrity related or glamorous - sort of dark streets and high heels - and most stalking has nothing to do with that. 'It's just to do with an obsessional illness in the head of the person and actually we're getting much better at recognising mental health and all its myriad forms now.' Vines was jailed last year after bombarding the News Agents presenter with letters following a fixation that has spanned since the pair attended Cambridge University together in the 1990s. Maitlis said she does not like the use of the word stalking, in general, and said it was time to consider a different term that focuses it being a medical illness. She explained: 'And I think we've got to find a different word for stalking, which is much more to do with his brain (not) working properly. 'I know that you don't just need a prison system. You need a psychiatric system. 'And at the moment, we're really, really hard pushed to find enough mental health for not least all the many, many thousands of kids in this country now who are suffering and having a really hard time with their own mental health.' Other celebrities who have suffered from stalkers in recent years include actress Claire Foy, broadcaster Isla Traquair and radio and TV star Jeremy Vine. Winter range loss is fueling this seasons heated debate around the viability of electric vehicles (EVs). Some important context is needed, however. Gasoline cars, just like their electric counterparts, lose a significant amount of range in cold weather too. For most drivers who travel less than 40 miles a day, range loss really means higher fueling costs. When a gas vehicle loses range, it costs a lot more than the same range loss in an EV. For example, at $3.50 a gallon, a car that gets 30 MPG in warm weather and costs $46.67 to go 400 miles suddenly costs $8.24 more to drive the same distance. By contrast, an EV plugging in at $0.13 per kWh usually costs $13 to go 400 miles and bumps up to a mere $16.25 even if it loses 20% efficiency when the temperature drops. Some EV models lose 40% in extreme cold. Tack on another $3, and that still leaves almost $30 in the drivers pocket. So, why all the fuss? In a highly partisan landscape where EVs have been dubbed liberal leftist technology, their benefits are buried in the press. Every bit of bad EV news spirals into an echo chamber of confirmation bias. For example: Teslas recent software update was labeled a recall even though the vehicles software was updated without any cars leaving their driveway. Hertzs recent decision to reduce its Tesla fleet was seen by many as a referendum on the cars quality; it was actually a decision based on Hertzs miscalculations around repair costs and a mismatch in their projections of consumer demand for EV rentals. The cost of EV repairs might be higher, but their maintenance and fuel costs are still much lower than gas vehicles. While our countrys public charging infrastructure is still lagging, home charging is a huge benefit of EV ownership. And though some challenges exist, its crucial to acknowledge the environmental advantages of EVs namely, zero direct emissions, and greater energy efficiency than gas-powered cars. This winter, keep in mind that EVs generally perform well in cold weather. In Norway, where 93% of new cars sold are electric, the average temperature hovers a solid 10% lower than in the U.S. The first-ever drive from the north to the south pole was also completed by an electric vehicle. By understanding this broader context, we can put our minor seasonal quibbles with EVs in perspective. Kate L. Harrison is the co-founder and head of marketing at MoveEV, an AI-powered EV transition platform. CVS has been slammed for sending a 'tone deaf' memo to staff following a report detailing Ashleigh Anderson's death. The CVS pharmacist, 41, experienced symptoms of a heart attack on September 10, 2021, but since she was the only pharmacist on staff that day, she would have had to close the counter to leave - and waited for cover to arrive. But before she could go to the emergency room, Anderson collapsed behind the counter of the CVS store in Seymour, Indiana, and died, despite desperate attempts to save her. The USA Today report highlighted what happened on the day Anderson died and the stress she - as well as other pharmacists - was under. Following the report, CVS Chief Pharmacy Officer Prem Shah sent employees a memo saying the company was 'deeply saddened' by Anderson's death and that it would make 'sustained investments to provide a more balanced, positive work environment'. The memo has been described as 'tone deaf' by another pharmacist, who shared the memo on X, formerly known as Twitter. Ashleigh Anderson (pictured, 41, experienced symptoms of a heart attack on September 10, 2021, but since she was the only pharmacist on staff that day, she would have had to close the counter to leave - and waited for cover to arrive Following the report, CVS Chief Pharmacy Officer Prem Shah sent employees a memo saying the company was 'deeply saddened' by Anderson's death and that it would make 'sustained investments to provide a more balanced, positive work environment' But before she could go to the emergency room, Anderson collapsed behind the counter of the CVS store in Seymour, Indiana (CVS store in Seymour pictured above), and died, despite desperate attempts to save her Anderson, who was described as an 'outstanding pharmacist who was committed to her patients' in the CVS memo, suffered a blockage of a coronary artery, which lead to a so-called 'widowmaker' heart attack. Her longtime boyfriend, Joe Bowman, received a message from her 15 minutes before her death, saying that someone to cover her was on the way and she would go to the emergency room after. READ MORE: Thousands of Walgreens pharmacy employees across the US to walk off the job claiming working conditions are putting patient lives at risk Advertisement 'Hopefully it's nothing and I will come back to work,' she wrote in her last message seen by USA Today. Her death came at a time when the pharmacy industry was under pressure from the pandemic, with many employees reporting they felt burnt out. Staffing issues were ripe across the industry at the time and on the day that Anderson died, she was the only pharmacist on duty. In the USA Today report, family members of Anderson suggested she did not want to close the counter and go to the nearby emergency room before cover arrived out of fear she 'only' had an anxiety attack and would have to face her superiors after. Shah wrote in this week's CVS memo that his leadership team is 'deeply committed to [...] foster a culture of safety for our patients, customers and colleagues'. He said that digital innovations would be introduced to 'help balance workload, maintain staffing hours even during slower periods, increase wages and bonuses and create a more sustainable reimbursement model'. One social media user said after reading about Anderson's story and the memo: 'I hadn't heard her story. Absolutely tragic. 'And this memo sounds like "we are going to replace pharmacists with technology" and not like "we are going to appropriately staff pharmacies to accommodate workload".' Her longtime boyfriend, Joe Bowman (left, pictured with Anderson), received a message from her 15 minutes before her death, saying that someone to cover her was on the way and she would go to the emergency room after The memo and Anderson's story caused outrage on social media Another woman wrote: 'CVS's greed is out of control. I've spoken to many pharmacists and staff. They are burnt out. CVS RX insurance is theft. 'They don't care, full stop. This is the worst of capitalism. Pharmacy profits must be capped.' 'If they really care: Increase the staff,' a third suggested. In a statement to MailOnline CVS said it doesn't want employees who feel ill or experience a medical emergency - like Anderson - to stay at work. The company also said it had a 'culture of safety' and that it encourages 'colleagues to report any workplace issue anonymously if they choose without fear of retaliation, so we can promptly investigate and take action as needed'. A CVS spokesperson told MailOnline: 'Every day our dedicated pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and front store colleagues work to provide our patients and consumers with high quality care and outstanding service. 'In turn, we are committed to ensuring that our colleagues are heard, appreciated, and cared for.' A British man has been arrested after armed police raided his Costa home and found nearly 10,000lbs of cannabis resin in one of Andalucia's 'largest ever' drugs busts. The raid took place in La Linea in Andalucia near Spain's border with Gibraltar, famed as a drugs gateway to Europe. A team of armed officers were shown marching up to the house beside the wall in footage released by police today before slowly making their way up the steps. Inside the building detectives could be seen counting out a bundle of 50 euro notes and opening up a door to a room where most of the cannabis resin is thought to have been stored. The large parcels containing the cannabis appeared to have the names of their recipients on them. The name 'Ralph' was scrawled on one and 'Coly' on others. Detectives have described the seizure as one of the largest ever in Spain's southern region of Andalucia. A team of armed officers can be seen marching up to the house beside the wall before slowly making their way up the steps The large parcels containing the cannabis appeared to have the names of their recipients on them Detectives were seen counting out a bundle of 50 euro notes found inside the house Police have released little information about the three detainees but confirmed one is British and described him as the owner of the villa where the drugs were found. A spokesman for the Civil Guard in the port city of Algeciras near La Linea confirmed: 'The Civil Guard has found and dismantled a drug "guarderia" in La Linea with more than 9,920lbs of cannabis resin. 'It's one of the largest drugs seizures ever discovered in a "guarderia" in recent years in the Andalucia region. 'The operation has culminated in the arrest of three people, one of them British who is the owner of the property, and the seizure of two vehicles including a stolen vehicle. 'Police carried out the raid after finding out about a coastal drug drop in La Linea. Officers carefully making their way up the steps in the raid. A spokesman for the Civil Guard said: 'Police carried out the raid after finding out about a coastal drug drop in La Linea' A store room full of the parcels containing the cannabis. The name 'Ralph' was scrawled on one and 'Coly' on others 'The detainees have been handed over to the courts.' It was not immediately clear today if the British man and the other suspects, whose nationalities have not been disclosed, have already appeared before a judge and whether they have been remanded in custody pending an ongoing investigation. Drugs traffickers use vessels including high-powered speedboats to smuggle mainly hashish into Spain from Morocco through La Linea. It is a popular drop-off point due to its proximity to the African continent. The mysterious disappearance of an Australian woman who was last seen six days ago heading out for a woodland jog has gripped the nation, and forced her husband to brush off 'malicious' online rumours. Samantha Murphy, 51, vanished while out for a 7.30am jog in the Woowookarung Regional Park beauty spot near Ballarat, in Australia's Victoria state, last Sunday. Since then, an army of police, State Emergency Service volunteers and concerned locals have scoured vast areas of bushland in search of Ms Murphy. Her distraught daughter Jess and husband Michael have also made a desperate television appeal for information on her whereabouts, and have hit back at cruel trolls running a whispering campaign against her husband. Despite the six-day search, no trace of the mother of three has been found. The mysterious disappearance of Australian mother Samantha Murphy (pictured) who was last seen six days ago heading out for a woodland jog has gripped the nation and has forced her husband to brush off 'malicious' online rumours Samantha Murphy, 51, vanished while out for a 7.30am jog in the Woowookarung Regional Park beauty spot near Ballarat, in Australia's Victoria state, last Sunday Ms Murhpy's husband, Michael (right) was seen smiling after meeting with detectives at Buninyong Police Station. He has been forced to brush off 'malicious' online rumours The last known sighting of Ms Murphy was on Sunday, February 4 at 7.30am, when she was caught on her home's CCTV camera as she left for the run. Family members reported her missing after she failed to arrive for a brunch scheduled for that morning, and detectives still remain puzzled about where Ms Murphy went upon leaving her home. Her family home is situated in eastern Ballarat, a city in the Central Highlands of Victoria which is home to around 117,00 people making it the state's third largest city. Her mobile phone later pinged a local cell phone tower around 5pm on Sunday - which can only locate her anywhere within 17km of nearby Buninyong. This was ten hours after she left home, and is where the trail of clues runs cold. Ms Murphy is said to have occasionally suffered from low blood pressure which may have combined with the high temperatures on the day she vanished. Some have speculated she may have also run out of water while jogging which may have caused her to then become disorientated and lose her way in the forest. But the 51-year-old is known to her family and friends as being mentally and physically strong, and is someone who would regularly go on long runs. Search crews have painstakingly scoured a large area of the city's east, the Canadian Forest area and Mount Helen, with State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers and locals helping police in the search. The Ballarat community has rallied together, with a growing number of residents and Ms Murphy's friends joining the search efforts. But the region has been described as 'challenging', featuring large areas of woodland, waterways and mine shafts - many of which have been checked. And in a blow to the search on Friday, it was announced that the search would be scaled back over the weekend with detectives from Victoria Police's specialist Missing Persons unit taking charge. Crews from the Country Fire Authority and State Emergency Service volunteers have also been told to withdraw from the search. Speaking on Friday, Inspector Bob Heaney said: 'We have had [the] Victoria police search and rescue squad involved in the search from day one.' 'It is a challenging area there were a lot of unused mines and waterways throughout that area as well. And some thick and rugged bush terrain.' He also said that Ms Murphy's movements were in-line with what she would normally do on a Sunday morning, and that she would often cover '14 to 15km on her runs'. 'She'd normally due back from her run within a couple of hours and alarm bells went up when she didn't return from that run,' he said. The last known sighting of Ms Murphy was on Sunday, February 4 at 7.30am, when she was caught on her home's CCTV camera as she left for the run (pictured) An army of police, State Emergency Service volunteers (pictured) and concerned locals have scoured vast areas of bushland in their search for Ms Murphy In a blow to the search on Friday, it was announced that the search would be scaled back over the weekend with detectives from Victoria Police's specialist Missing Persons unit taking charge. Pictured: SES volunteers search farmland in Ballarat on Wednesday Family members reported Ms Murphy missing after she failed to arrive for a brunch scheduled for that morning, and detectives still remain puzzled about where Ms Murphy went upon leaving her home. Pictured: A public information board about the search Samantha Murphy left her Ballarat home at 7am on Sunday to go for a run in the nearby state forest and did not return home, nor has she been seen since Amid spreading online speculation that foul play could have been involved in the disappearance, Detective Acting Superintendent Mark Hatt said that no homicide detectives have been involved in the investigation as of Friday. 'While no sinister factors have been identified in Samantha's disappearance at this time, there are significant concerns given it has now been six days without her being sighted or any signs of her current whereabouts,' Victoria police said in a statement. 'We haven't received any information relating to her movements from the moment she left [her] home address on Sunday morning,' Detective Hatt added. He told reporters that detectives would now look into Ms Murphy's movements and interactions with others in the days before she vanished. 'Absolutely, that will be a huge part of our investigation. Digging into the background, working out Samantha's movements in the days leading up to her disappearance and also double-so the people who know her,' he said. Part of the investigation - now dubbed Operation Primus - will see detectives trawl through Ms Murphy's computers and devices in the hope of finding clues. On Thursday, Ms Murphy's eldest daughter Jessica and husband Michael issued a desperate plea for their loved one to return home. Through tears, Jessica urged the public to continue searching for her mum. 'Mum, we love you so much and we miss you and we need you at home with us, please come home soon, I can't wait to see you,' Jessica told reporters. 'Mum's a really strong woman, and she's far too determined to give up this fight.' Jessica's father thanked the community for their support in recent days as he appealed for answers. 'People just don't vanish into thin air,' Mr Murphy said. 'Someone has got to know something ... whether it be any little thing that you might think is relevant, just call the police, let them know. 'It'll give us a bit of peace of mind if we get some hope.' On Thursday, Ms Murphy's eldest daughter Jessica (centre) and husband Michael (left), issued a desperate plea for their loved one to return home Through tears, Jessica Murphy urged the public to continue searching for her mum Amid spreading online speculation that foul play could have been involved in the disappearance, Detective Acting Superintendent Mark Hatt (pictured Friday) said that no homicide detectives have been involved in the investigation as of Friday The family have been forced to dismiss 'malicious' remarks on social media surrounding the mother's disappearance. Speaking to the Herald Sun on Wednesday, Michael Murphy brushed off the negative commentary circulating on social media. 'I don't even look online so I'm not worried about it,' he said. 'I'm doing OK, it's just a whole time thing' adding that he had been advised not to say anymore by the police. He was seen smiling after meeting with detectives at Buninyong Police Station. He spent just an hour inside the station before leaving with an officer, who escorted him to his car, and appeared casual as a waiting media pack photographed him. The station is being used by emergency services units as the headquarters for its ongoing search for Ms Murphy. Taking to Facebook, Mr Murphy's daughter told people to 'be quiet and think before you post'. 'You have no idea what you are talking about,' she wrote on the platform. A friend of the missing woman also defended the family, calling people 'trolls.' 'I'm just trying to defend people who are being hurt by malicious comments,' she wrote. The family also defended Ms Murphy's husband. 'For those questioning Samantha's husband, you need not worry,' the family said in a statement released to the Facebook group set up to help in the hunt. 'He is in more pain than anyone and would be the last person to suspect in any of this.' Search crews have painstakingly scoured a large area of the city's east, the Canadian Forest area and Mount Helen, with state volunteers and locals helping police in the search. Pictured: A general view of the landscape from Mt Buninyong near Ballarat, February 9 Signage is seen for Woowookarung Regional Park near Ballarat, February 9 The family also wanted to set the record straight on other online speculation related to the case. 'I've been seeing some misinformation been spread on all platforms that I want to inform people about,' the family statement added. 'Samantha's phone pinging that far away from home is not usual. 'Yes, she walked in different directions, but she kept to the paths, never went for more than 10km total roughly and would let family know if she was walking further.' And they stressed that Ms Murphy knows the area and the local conditions and was physically fit enough to cope if she did get lost. 'She is a very experienced walker who is in amazing condition,' the statement said. 'Some of the trails she has done around Victoria isn't for the light minded.' The statement, from an unnamed family member, said the 'overwhelming support of this amazing community' had brought 'tears of hope and joy into our hearts. 'We are holding up as strong as we can emotionally and physically. We pray that Samantha comes home soon safe and sound. We all miss her dearly,' the statement said. 'The searching that everyone has done has made a positive difference in the investigation as a whole. Without you guys we'd easily be another couple days back.' The family said they had done as much as they could to help police in the search. A police car sat in the driveway of Ms Murphy's home on Wednesday morning The focus of the search moved to the town of Buninyong, 15 minutes south of Ballarat 'We have worked with authorities to give any information and have tried all techniques to find her that's possible currently,' the statement said. 'We don't know much more information than what gets said in articles and news.' One line of inquiry was officially ruled out on Thursday after police confirmed a woman pictured in CCTV was not Ms Murphy, as previously stated. Victoria Police had released CCTV footage on Wednesday which showed a person heading in a north-easterly direction toward Yankee Flat Road, near the intersection of Warrenheip Road. The woman was believed to have been Ms Murphy heading out for a 20km run through the state forest. However, another runner came forward to reveal she was the person pictured. Inspector Heaney said the discovery had 'eliminated' a possible route Ms Murphy may have taken after she left home. He added police were still treating her disappearance as not suspicious, despite homicide detectives from the missing persons squad reportedly joining the search on Friday. 'Apart from covering a lot of terrain, a lot of area that we've physically searched looking for Samantha, we don't know a hell of a lot more,' he said. Police and SES are seen combing through the Woowookarang National Park CCTV of a woman believed to be Ms Murphy was later found to be another resident in the area 'A lot of the information has come in (from the public) which we need to filter through which then allows us to review that and focus on where we need to search next.' Inspector Heaney confirmed Ms Murphy was wearing an Apple watch and had her phone with her at the time she vanished, but said the area police were able to track from her devices was 'limited'. In another setback on Wednesday, officers were alerted to 'items' possibly related to Ms Murphy's disappearance, however, it was later determined they did not belong to the missing mother. Locals in the area have also raised concerns the mother may have fallen in an abandoned mine shaft, which can be difficult to see on the forest floor. When Fox News stalwart Tucker Carlson was fired from his post last year amid a rumoured fallout with media mogul Rupert Murdoch and his son Lachlan, he quickly found his feet. Tech billionaire Elon Musk, who had just become the CEO of the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, offered him an exclusive platform to launch his own talk show, and Carlson quickly set about raking in millions of viewers. But few would have expected that just months after leaving one of America's largest news outlets, the controversial and opinionated Republican journalist would be sitting down with none other than Vladimir Putin. It was the first one-on-one interview of Putin by someone from the Western media since 2019, despite most Western media outlets having sent countless requests to the Kremlin for a sit-down with its longtime chief. And for two hours the Russian President, whose country is currently fighting a bloody, grinding war with a US and EU-funded Ukrainian army, lectured Carlson about Russian history and explained why the West must realise it is 'impossible' for Kyiv to defeat Moscow in a battle of attrition. Their conversation was certainly eye-opening, and it is undoubtedly one of the best opportunities for non-Russian speakers in the West to hear Putin talk at length. But the interview was also published at a highly opportune time for the Russian President to spin his tightly controlled narrative on the importance of 'denazifying Ukraine' - for several reasons. Putin's stark warning that Ukraine will never defeat Russia comes as US and European publics seem more hesitant than ever to support the ongoing delivery of military aid to Kyiv. It also comes months away from a pivotal US presidential election which could see a dramatic shift in the White House's policies toward Ukraine - and just weeks out from Russia's own elections. And finally, the interview dropped just as Ukrainian President Zelensky decided to sack the beloved commander-in-chief of his armed forces in a move which could destabilise Kyiv's war effort. In this pool photograph distributed by Russian state agency Sputnik, Russia's President Vladimir Putin gives an interview to US talk show host Tucker Carlson at the Kremlin in Moscow on February 6, 2024 In this photo released by Sputnik news agency on Friday, Feb. 9, 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, shakes hands with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024 For two hours the Russian President, whose country is currently fighting a bloody, grinding war with a US and EU-funded Ukrainian army, lectured Carlson about Russian history and explained why the West must realise it is 'impossible' for Kyiv to defeat Moscow in a battle of attrition Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, gestures as he speaks during an interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024 Facing Putin in matching white chairs with a small table between them, Carlson rarely pushed back in his interview in an ornate room at the Kremlin - recorded Tuesday. It is perhaps for this reason that he is the only Western journalist to have been granted an interview with Putin since 2019. Though it could be argued that some Western news outlets would likely make an interview with Putin highly combative and stymy the conversation, Carlson's attempt swung in the opposite direction, providing the Russian President the freedom to conduct lengthy monologues and take control of the conversation with little challenge or debate. On numerous occasions Putin simply talked over Carlson or evaded answers to his questions, all while making it painfully clear he knew everything there is to know about Carlson's personal and professional background, seemingly in an attempt to unsettle his host. Carlson opened the discussion by asking Putin to 'tell us why you believe the United States might strike Russia'. But Putin launched into a half-hour lecture on the history of Russia and Ukraine dating back to the dawn of Slavic history in 862. He later claimed that Russia and Ukraine almost agreed to a peace deal in Istanbul shortly after the full-scale war began in 2022, citing this as the reason for the Russian retreat from Kyiv. But he made no mention of the heavy losses of troops and armour sustained by Moscow's forces, instead suggesting he was betrayed by Ukrainian negotiators who tore up the planned peace agreement at the behest of the West - specifically then-British Prime Minister Boris Johnson - and used the Russian retreat to ready its forces for a long conflict. The Kremlin chief then declared that the West must recognise that Russia will not be defeated, despite US, European and NATO help to Ukraine. 'Up until now, there has been the uproar and screaming about inflicting a strategic defeat to Russia on the battlefield. But now they are apparently coming to realise that it is difficult to achieve, if possible, at all. In my opinion, it is impossible by definition,' he said. He also aimed a message at the US Congress, where Republicans are increasingly reluctant to keep backing Ukraine with weapons and other military aid. When asked by Carlson why he simply doesn't pick up the phone and speak to Biden to 'work out' the situation in Ukraine, Putin responded: 'What's there to work out? 'It's very simple. We have contacts through various agencies, but I will tell you what we are saying on this matter and what we are conveying to the US leadership. 'If you really want to stop fighting, you need to stop supplying weapons. It will be over in a few weeks and then we can agree on some terms,' he said. 'Does the United States need this? Why? (The war) is thousands of kilometres away from its territory. Don't you have anything else to do?' Putin said. While president and since being defeated by Biden, Donald Trump - who looks set to lead the Republican party into the next election even amid a torrent of legal woes - has repeatedly praised Putin and failed to condemn the invasion of Ukraine. The former president once famously said that if he were re-elected he would be able to solve the war in '24 hours,' though never elaborated on his plan to do so. It is expected that the US' willingness to keep providing military aid to Ukraine would quickly evaporate in the event that Trump - or another Republican candidate - were to succeed in this year's election. By contrast, Biden has branded Putin a 'war criminal' and has made backing for Ukraine's elected, pro-Western government one of the key priorities of his presidency. Carlson's two-hour chat with the Russian president was the first one-on-one interview of Putin by someone from the Western media since 2019 Russian President Vladimir Putin (R) attends an interview with US journalist Tucker Carlson at the Kremlin FILE - U.S. President Donald Trump meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the G-20 Summit in Hamburg, Germany, on July 7, 2017 FILE: U.S. President Joe Biden (R) and Russian President Vladimir Putin meet during the U.S.-Russia summit at Villa La Grange on June 16, 2021 in Geneva, Switzerland Putin went on to declare the 'denazification' of Ukraine his main priority and said he would not be satisfied until that process was completed, without giving any indication of what that would entail. When Carlson sought to move the conversation onward, asking, among other questions, whether the Russian President would be willing to end the war and maintain the territory seized in eastern Ukraine, Putin simply ignored the question and continued to wax lyrical about his perceived rot of Nazism in Ukraine and his conquest to stamp it out. Later in the conversation, when asked if Moscow would consider invading other countries in the region - NATO members Poland and Latvia - or generally across the European continent, Putin said that was 'out of the question'. 'We have no interest in Poland, Latvia or anywhere else. Why would we do that? We simply don't have any interest. It's just threat mongering,' Putin said. A war with Poland, he said, would happen 'only in one case: if Poland attacks Russia.' Putin instead said that the West was simply trying to scare its populations with the myths of a Russian threat - despite a slew of top Russian officials and leading media personalities routinely calling for missile attacks on key NATO capital cities, as well as advocating for the deployment of a tactical nuclear weapon should the war continue. In the build up to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Putin and other Kremlin officials denied that Moscow had any plans to launch an invasion. This was despite Russia building up a vast force on the border in late 2021 and early 2022, before the leader ordered his forces into Ukraine in February of that year. In the interview with Carlson, Putin also claimed the West had failed to understand that Russia, after the 1991 fall of the Soviet Union, wanted to be part of the family of so-called 'civilised peoples'. He alleged that he asked former US President Bill Clinton whether Russia could possibly join the alliance, and was told that simply wouldn't happen. This, he said, made Russia understand it wasn't welcome and meant the Kremlin sought to consolidate its own power and pursue a different path. Such a narrative strengthens Putin's standing at home, painting him as a man who is willing to work and even partner with the West, but instead resolved to strengthen Russia domestically in the face of rejection. Russia's media in advance of the Carlson interview painted the former Fox News host as a celebrity, pumping up his arrival in Moscow and following his every move. Russian President Vladimir Putin shakes hands with U.S. television host Tucker Carlson during an interview in Moscow, Russia February 6, 2024 FILE: US President Bill Clinton (R) and Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin (L) decline to answer questions during a photo opportunity in the lobby of the Stamford Hotel in Auckland, New Zealand 12 September 1999 Kremlin pool photo taken on Monday, July 19, 2006, Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, and U.S. President George W Bush, attend a working dinner with the other leaders of the G8 nations, as Russian businessman-turned Wagner leader, the late Yevgeny Prigozhin, stands on the right, in St. Petersburg, Russia When asked about propaganda, Putin chuckled and retorted: 'It's hard to win a propaganda war with the US because the US controls much of the world's media outlets, including many in Europe.' The pair also seemingly agreed that the US blew up three out of four of Russia's Nord Stream pipelines - a project decades in the making that would see Russia deliver huge quantities of gas to Germany and Europe. Sweden earlier this week abandoned its investigation into the matter, leaving German investigators to continue their work. 'Of course, now we need to see how Germany itself reacts to this, as a country that has lost a lot in relation to this terrorist attack,' the Kremlin's press secretary Dmitry Peskov said. 'It will be interesting to see how thorough the German authorities will be when it comes to this investigation,' he added. Russia has repeatedly complained that the West has not shared information from its investigations and Putin said the reason for this was to hide the US involvement, because Germany is 'guided by the interests of the collective West, not its own national interest'. The highly anticipated discussion between Putin and Carlson comes as Zelensky relieved long-serving commander-in-chief of the army, Valery Zaluzhny, of his duties. Zaluzhny, who led Kyiv's forces throughout Russia's invasion and is known as the 'Iron General', is said to have fallen out with Zelensky over differing opinions on how to boost numbers in the army, which is struggling to fill its ranks. Zelensky also reportedly took umbrage with an interview given by Zaluzhny to The Economist in which he admitted the fight had ground to a stalemate - something the Ukrainian President fears could turn EU chiefs off the idea of sending more aid. Zaluzhny was replaced by the commander of Ukraine's ground forces Oleksandr Syrsky, who is said to have a close relationship with Zelensky. But the move will not be welcomed by many Ukrainian servicemen, who highly rate their 'Iron General'. In this photo provided by the Ukrainian Presidential Press Office, Valery Zaluzhny listens to the national anthem of Ukraine Zaluzhny (L), who has led Kyiv 's forces throughout Russia 's invasion, is said to have fallen out with Zelensky (right) after he said the war had ground to a stalemate Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky replaced Zaluzhny as commander-in-chief of Ukraine's armed forces with Col.-Gen. Oleksandr Syrsky (right) On the frontlines in Ukraine's east, where Russia's army is relentlessly pressing against outmanned Ukrainian soldiers in several points, the exhausted troops have little patience for personnel clashes in Kyiv's halls of power. 'Replacing the commander during fighting, especially when they are so intense in our area, is not appropriate,' an army medic with the call name 'Beria' deployed in the Donetsk region told reporters. 'I would sooner replace the president,' the 25-year-old said. Another soldier, 'Kit', said the rumours of Zaluzhny's firing irritated him, especially since Zelensky has never publicly said what Zaluzhny had done to displease him. Both men played key roles when Russia sent troops against an outmanned and outgunned Ukraine on February 24, 2022, when most of the world expected Moscow's military to easily roll over its smaller neighbour. Zelensky became the public face of Ukrainian resistance, refusing to leave Kyiv as it was being bombed, churning out defiant video selfies and furiously working the phones gathering support and pledges of weapons from world leaders. But Zaluzhny was the force behind the scenes, overseeing a defence that managed - against all odds and expectations - to stand its ground against a Russian military that dwarfed Ukraine's in men and arms. His warning in November that the war was sliding into an attritional phase that suited Russia was out of kilter with Kyiv's official rhetoric, but for many of his soldiers it was recognition of the painful reality on the battlefield. News of Zaluzhny's removal will have been met with satisfaction in the halls of the Kremlin, where it is hoped that the Carslon interview will only sew the Kremlin's narrative and compound division in Ukraine and the West. A county clerk used her 'political influence' to get her son reinstated into his Michigan public school district after he had been expelled for allegedly sexually assaulting another student, a lawsuit claims. The alleged victim's mother launched a federal civil rights lawsuit against Ingham County Clerk Barb Byrum and her husband Brad Delaney after their son was readmitted to the Mason Public School District last fall. The lawsuit, reviewed by MailOnline, accuses Byrum and Delaney, a detective sergeant in county sheriff's office, of 'acting under their unique positions of power' to conspire with the district and school board. The complaint does not specify how the couple allegedly used their positions to influence officials, but argues the school district acted with 'indifference' when it came to the alleged victim and the decision to reinstate the boy. The alleged assault took place in May 2022 at Mason Middle School, where both students were eighth graders, the suit states. The boy was accused of 'digital penetration' against a female student and expelled for his ninth-grade year after a Title IX investigation. A no-contact order was also put in place. Byrum, a Democrat, is serving her third term as the county clerk and was a state representative before being elected in 2013. The couple have two sons, aged 14 and 16. Ingham County Clerk Barb Byrum (pictured) and her husband Brad Delaney used 'political influence' to their son reinstated into the Mason Public School District after the boy had been expelled for allegedly sexually assaulting another student, a lawsuit claims The Title IX investigation determined that Byrum and Delaney's son violated the school district's policy prohibiting sexual assault when he allegedly put his hand inside a female student's pants during class, the complaint states. The boy allegedly ignored her attempts to push him away and only stopped touching her when class concluded. The suit claims he tried to assault her again a few days later in another class. Other classmates interviewed as part of the allegation corroborated parts of the girl's allegations, according to the complaint. Mason police investigated the incident in May 2022, but 'never spoke' to the boy, who was not charged. The alleged victim obtained a personal protection order against him that summer. The Title IX investigation recommended that the boy be expelled and he was banned from the district for the 2022-23 academic year. But the lawsuit alleges that the two youths have now been 'placed back in the exact same public school district' after the boy's parents successfully rallied district officials. Byrum and Delaney have two sons, aged 14 and 16, The girl has repeatedly complained about seeing her alleged attacker in the hallways, at lunch and during extracurricular activities, according to the suit - which names the district, Mason High School Principal Lance Delbridge, Assistant Principal Nicholas Toodzio, Byrum and Delaney as defendants. Byrum is serving her third term as the county clerk and was a state representative before being elected in 2013. The couple have two sons, aged 14 and 16 Her family claimed she has suffered 'significant distress' in wake of his reinstatement with has negatively impacted her grades and harmed her educational opportunities. 'It's very traumatic and something that could live with her forever,' Brandon Wolfe, who represents the alleged victim's family, wrote in the lawsuit. 'We want justice.' He added that, for the victim, 'every day is a constant reminder of being sexually assaulted' and of the 'mental anguish from that embarrassment.' He further went on to argue that the 'consistent contact' between the girl and her alleged attacker the personal protection order, which was reinstated as recently as January 24 this year. Michigan Department of Education policy states that students who have been expelled for any reason can petition a school board for reinstatement after 150 days. Boards that allow students to be reinstated cam add conditions to the reinstatement. According to the lawsuit, in the case of Byrum and Delaney's son, a no-contact order was put in place between the boy and his accuser. Wolfe, speaking to the Lansing State Journal last week, claims that his clients were not aware that the reinstatement process was underway until after the board made its decision. Michigan law does not require the girl to have been informed of the boy's reinstatement. MailOnline has approached Byrum, Delaney, Delbridge, Toodzio and Wolfe for comment. A woman who was in a coma for five weeks woke up to discover she had been evicted from her home. Juliet Iswan, 43, was admitted to Bristol Royal Infirmary in February 2023 after suffering from a stroke. Ms Iswan was born with sickle cell disease and the stroke put her into a coma for five weeks. She remained in the ICU until January this year but she is now staying in social housing - with nothing but a hospital bed and gowns. Whilst Ms Iswan was in a coma, all of her belongings - including 300 in cash, her passport, irreplaceable family jewellery as well as other possessions - were either sold or disposed of - and she can not find any record of them. Juliet Iswan (pictured), 43, was admitted to Bristol Royal Infirmary in February 2023 after suffering from a stroke Ms Iswan was born with sickle cell disease and the stroke put her into a coma for five weeks Whilst Ms Iswan was in a coma, all of her belongings - including 300 in cash, her passport, irreplaceable family jewellery as well as other possessions - were either sold or disposed of - and she can not find any record of them Before being rushed into hospital, Ms Iswan lived in the emergency housing accommodation Connolly & Callaghan, in Bristol for eight years. Ms Iswan, who was born in Uganda but has been living in Bristol since 2005, said: 'I was told when I came out of a coma that I had been evicted from my home and all my things were gone. 'The most important things I cannot even put a monetary value on - necklaces, earrings, every gift I ever got from my parents was in that box - my Mum, my Grandma - and it's all apparently gone. 'I've lost all my clothes, shoes still in boxes - I loved to walk everyday come rain come shine, I would walk but now I have nothing. 'I don't even know where my passport is. 'I'm now in a cold house with just a hospital bed and that is it - how can you discharge someone to this life? 'From a coma to this - it's freezing cold - this is no way to live. I have nothing! 'Between the council and Connolly & Callaghan, no one is taking responsibility for my stuff. 'If I had left the flat to go to Glastonbury or something - I would understand, but they knew I was in the hospital literally unconscious.' Her coma was brought about by Cerebral edema which is swelling of the brain. Despite being discharged from hospital, Ms Iswan still struggles with her health and she goes to sleep in pain. Sickle cell disease is an incurable condition which can cause chronic pain, fatigue and other serious health problems, such as infection, acute chest syndrome and stroke. The 43-year-old has been in and out of hospital since suffering a severe stroke in 2009 and she became physically disabled. She has had multiple hip replacements as well as other surgeries. She added: 'When I was in hospital I was living in temporary accommodation - a one bedroom flat in a Stokes Croft house with Connolly & Callaghan. 'But when I had woken up from my coma, my sickle cell nurse had to inform me I was literally homeless and had been evicted. 'I didn't know what to say or think, I couldn't speak. 'I just had to try and block this and focus on getting well - but remember asking what had happened to all my stuff inside the property. Before being rushed into hospital, Ms Iswan lived in the emergency housing accommodation Connolly & Callaghan, in Bristol for eight years. Pictured: Ms Iswan in her new accommodation The 43-year-old has been in and out of hospital since suffering a severe stroke in 2009 and she became physically disabled. She has had multiple hip replacements as well as other surgeries. Pictured: Ms Iswan's new accommodation 'The nurse said to me, 'I didn't want to tell you - but the housing agents said all your things are mixed with everyone's.' Ms Iswan was informed she or a family member could collect some of her 'important' items, but upon collection, her friend was only handed Ms Iswan's medication and an empty jewellery box - not her passport, or cash or sentimental jewellery. She was also told whilst in hospital that a homeless officer had spoken with her agents, saying Ms Iswan was about to be discharged and had been provided with a one bedroom council flat. They wanted to collect her things so when she went to her new 'home', she could have her belongings. Ms Iswan explained: 'They were told it was all gone. 'At first I couldn't believe it, then I just started crying. 'They could have called to tell me they were going to get rid of it - but they didn't even let me or the hospital know. 'They knew I was in a coma - they knew my state, but no one was informed at all. 'They shouldn't do this to people - just because I don't have a big family to fight my corner or anyone to hold people accountable - it's completely inhumane.' Before her health took a turn for the worst, Ms Iswan worked part-time for OSCAR Bristol - a voluntary organisation and registered charity whose primary role is to improve the quality of health and well-being for individuals and families living with Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia. She has been supported by the organisation during her time in and out of hospital. Alphanso Davis, an OSCAR Chairperson, wrote to the Council in August stating his 'utter disgust at the lack of care' shown by the housing office. What is sickle cell disease? Sickle cell disease is the umbrella term for a group of inherited conditions that severely affect red blood cells. Around 15,000 people in the UK are sufferers and it is particularly common in people of African or Caribbean descent. Healthy red blood cells - produced by stem cells within bone marrow - are biconcaved discs that can bend and flex easily. However, in those with sickle cell disease, faulty stem cells produce red blood cells that are crescent shaped. They are rigid, unable to squeeze through smaller blood vessels and prone to causing blockages that deprive parts of the body of oxygen. Sufferers are not expected to live beyond 60 and treatment mainly focuses on alleviating symptoms, such as pain and infections, through blood transfusions and painkillers. Advertisement They wrote: 'Our organisation OSCAR Bristol had contacted Bristol City Council's housing office on numerous occasions regarding the plight of Juliet and her housing needs, with absolutely zero response. 'At least six phone calls were placed, and one email sent on the 27 June 2023 from OSCAR Bristol with Juliet's consent. 'Juliet was rushed into BRI hospital's intensive care unit, fighting for her life, due to the severity of her condition. 'It was whilst undergoing intensive care that Juliet was disgracefully made homeless. 'Juliet is very distressed and feels that she has been treated appallingly by Bristol City Council's housing office. 'Juliet at the very least need a one bedroom, ground floor flat, preferably in the Kingsdown or Cotham areas, where she has a fantastic support network, that supports her on a daily basis.' Ms Iswan had been living in accommodation with Connolly & Callaghan for over six years. She said the agents knew that whenever she was not in her home, she would be in hospital and her condition and sudden hospital admittance 'was not just out of the blue'. Her friend, Richard went to her building she was living and saw a representative C&C - named Paul, who assured Ms Iswan's belongings were safe and they could be collected when she left hospital. Richard says after 'multiple attempts to contact Paul', he has heard nothing since. A spokesperson for Connolly & Callaghan said: 'In line with our contractual obligations, we generally only store belongings for 7 days. 'All belongings are brought into our properties at the individuals own risk, as stated in the admissions paperwork. 'It goes without saying that we would always try our best to help those residents in our accommodation. 'However, we are restricted on storage, and have a constant influx of belongings that we're required to keep for a week. 'In order to dispose of belongings, we must receive a TORT letter from the statutory agency and a copy is sent to the resident by the statutory agency, then and only then are belongings disposed of. 'There were a couple of enquiries about Juliet's belongings this week, however, the initial response from my colleague was that we generally wouldn't keep belongings for more than 7 days, so if Juliet was discharged 8 months ago (as the enquirer had stated) it's unlikely we still have them. 'My colleague offered to pass the enquirer over to another colleague who could further investigate. 'This colleague remembered the case and recalled that important documents that had been retained. 'We have no complaint on file regarding this matter, nor a record of the 'list of 5 things' or missing belongings. 'No belongings have been auctioned. Ms Iswan had been living in accommodation with Connolly & Callaghan for over six years. She said the agents knew that whenever she was not in her home, she would be in hospital and her condition and sudden hospital admittance 'was not just out of the blue'. Pictured: Ms Iswan's new accommodation 'We do empathise with the residents booked into our accommodation and will always try and accommodate where we can. 'It's really disappointing that the account below is inaccurate and portraying our colleagues as if they do not care about those in our accommodation. 'This is not true.' A spokesperson for Bristol City Council has said the housing provider is responsible for a tenant's possessions, not the council. They said: 'It is the council's responsibility to provide emergency accommodation to those eligible, while we work with them to find a more permanent solution. 'Housing benefit is paid to the accommodation provider to cover the costs of the accommodation. 'Where an individual requires a prolonged hospital stay then their temporary accommodation is held for a short period and housing benefit continues to be paid. 'If an individual's hospital stay continues without a known date for discharge the temporary accommodation place will be made available for another person who is in need of emergency support. 'Officers will monitor the individual's situation so that when they are ready to be discharged from hospital, emergency accommodation is found and we continue to work with them to find long term solutions that meet their housing need.' The Green Party has been defeated in court after a tribunal found they discriminated against their former deputy leader over his views on gender. Dr Shahrar Ali, 54, who served as deputy between 2014 and 2016, took legal action against the party over what he described as a 'fanatical clampdown on legitimate debate' by trans rights activists. The case represents the first instance in which a political activist has sued their own party after being persecuted for having gender critical beliefs. Dr Ali has now been awarded 9,100 in damages by the Mayor's and City County Court. Reacting to the ruling on X, formerly Twitter, he wrote: 'Wow! Just wow! This is HUGE!! Our gender critical beliefs Are worthy of respect in a political party!! Thank you!' Shahrar Ali has successfully sued the Green Party after a row broke out over his views on gender Reacting to the ruling on X, formerly Twitter , he wrote: 'Wow! Just wow! This is HUGE!! Our gender critical beliefs Are worthy of respect in a political party!! Thank you!' The ruckus began with a Twitter post in July 2020, in which Dr Ali issued a statement titled 'What Is A Woman?' detailing his thoughts on the rights of women and girls This trial followed Dr Ali's removal as the party spokesman in February 2022, with officials ruling that his 'controversial' views on trans rights did not align with the role. The politician believes that gender should not be confused with biological sex which he states is 'immutable'. The ruckus began with a Twitter post in July 2020, in which Dr Ali issued a statement titled 'What Is A Woman?' detailing his thoughts on the rights of women and girls. He wrote: 'A woman is commonly defined as an adult human female and, genetically, typified by two XX chromosomes. These facts are not in dispute nor should they be in any political party. 'We campaign for the rights of women and girls to be treated equally on the basis of the protected characteristic of biological sex, as enshrined in the Equality Act 2010.' While this led to uproar among trans activists in the Green Party, Dr Ali was not sacked until 2022 once he had become the policing and domestic safety spokesman. In the ruling, Judge Hellman stated: 'I find that by removing him as spokesperson in a procedurally unfair way, The Green Party discriminated against Dr Ali because of his [gender critical] protected belief contrary to section 101 of the Equality Act. 'Dr Ali's removal was, in summary, procedurally unfair in that he was dismissed for breaches of the SGCC [the Green Party's Spokespersons' Code of Conduct] although the Green Party failed to identify, consider, or make findings in relation to any such breaches. 'Dr Ali also seeks a declaration that he has been subjected to unlawful discrimination. I grant the declaration sought, although it does not obviate the need for damages.' The bitter legal battle saw the party draw up plans last September to increase membership fees by an enormous 50 per cent in order to cover legal costs - estimated at between 200,000 and 400,000, the BBC reports. Financial auditors for the Green Party noted 'uncertainty' whether it was capable of running normally alongside the hefty costs. The enormous spike was formally approved at Green Party Conference last october, with fees rising from 3.33 per month month to 5 a month, alongside a 6 a year fee for concessions. Dr Ali expressed 'controversial' views on trans rights Dr Ali believes that gender should not be confused with biological sex which he claims is 'immutable' At the time, the party insisted it was in order to fund its 'biggest general election campaign ever'. Dr Ali's case is the latest in a series of tribunals which have seen those with gender critical views win against organisations imposing gender ideology as fact. The most significant of these is the lawsuit brought by Maya Forstater in 2021, in which holding gender critical beliefs was judged to be a protected characteristic. Ms Forstater is tax expert who lost her job at think-tank the Centre for Global Development (CGD) in 2018 after she tweeted that 'men cannot be women'. After losing an initial tribunal, Ms Forstater took her case to the High Court and won on appeal. In June 2021, the Employment Appeal Tribunal found that Forstater's gender critical beliefs were covered under the protected belief characteristic within the meaning of the Equality Act. She was later awarded more than 100,000 in damages. The Forstater ruling, as it became known, was widely seen as a game changer in employment law for how individuals with gender critical beliefs are treated by their bosses. Last month, lesbian Professor Jo Phoenix won a tribunal against the Open University after she was hounded out for expressing gender critical views. The judgment upheld nearly 20 of her claims and was highly critical against vindictive staff who organised an open letter against Dr Phoenix in order to initiate a pile on. Damages will be decided for Dr Phoenix at a later hearing. The Chair of the Green Party executive committee, Jon Nott, said: 'We are pleased that the court has recognised that a democratic political party has the right to select those who speak for it on the basis that they can and will communicate and support party policy publicly. 'We welcome the findings in the judgment that members of political parties have "fundamental party rights" which include the right to disagree, to advocate for and against policies and positions adopted or proposed in the party, and to organise for those who agree with them and against those who do not, and that the Equality Act is not intended to interfere with those rights. 'The party acknowledges that there were procedural shortfalls in how we deselected one of our spokespeople. We apologise for failing in this instance to live up to the standards that both we and the court expect.' Tories erupted in fury today after Vladimir Putin was allowed to blast British support for Ukraine unchallenged in a cosy interview with US broadcaster Tucker Carlson. The former Fox News host was accused of 'war criminal-washing' over his audience with the Russian tyrant in which he repeated discredited claims about former prime minister Boris Johnson. In the widely discredited one-to-one in Moscow, Mr Putin claimed Mr Johnson 'dissuaded' the leader of Ukraine's leading party from signing a peace deal that would have ended the bloodshed while he was PM. Mr Putin - who struggled to control tremours in his legs during the two-hour interview - alleged that negotiations had been taking place in Istanbul and that Ukraine signed the deal but backed out under pressure from Mr Johnson who said it was 'better to fight Russia'. Mr Johnson has previously dismissed the claims as 'propaganda', while Davyd Arakhamia, the head of Ukraine's ruling party, has also said they were not true. Mr Putin was allowed to drone on unchallenged for long chunks of time as he also gave a rambling history lesson about Russia dating back to the year 800 but was not asked tough questions about the invasion. US figures branded Mr Carlson 'Putin's useful idiot', while Alicia Kearns, the chairwoman of the Commons' Foreign Affairs Committee, told MailOnline: 'Carlson's interview indulged and appeased an autocrat responsible for crimes against humanity, hostage taking, chemical weapons attacks and the illegal invasion of a sovereign country. The idea that this interview was journalism is for the birds, it was nothing more than war criminal-washing. The former Fox News host was accused of 'war criminal-washing' over his audience with the Russian tyrant in which he repeated discredited claims about former prime minister Boris Johnson . Mr Putin was allowed to drone on unchallenged for long chunks of time as he also gave a rambling history lesson about Russia dating back to the year 800 but was not asked tough questions about the invasion. Mr Johnson, an outspoken supporter of Ukraine, has previously dismissed the claims as 'propaganda', while Davyd Arakhamia, the head of Ukraine's ruling party, has also said they were not true. 'The UK has led the strategic defence of Ukraine, from critical equipment to diplomatic support to resilience measures all the way back in 2015 when I was sent to Ukraine to assist them to tackle Russian disinformation attacks. 'It's no surprise Putin hates the UK for standing up for the rule of law and refusing to allow autocrats to achieve sovereignty through violence.' PM Rishi Sunak also waded into the row, branding as 'clearly ridiculous' Putin's repeated claim that the war in Ukraine was a result of Nato expansion. The Prime Minister told broadcasters during a visit to the South West: 'Russia conducted an illegal, unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. I'm proud that the UK has stood strongly with Ukraine from the beginning. 'I was there earlier this year, the first foreign leader to visit. 'It was my first visit of the year to announce significant military support to Ukraine and also a broader security relationship with them. 'We can't let this type of behaviour go unchecked. It impacts all of our security. 'We've already seen the impact it had on everyone's energy bills. And that's why we're working closely, not just with the US but with allies around the world, to give Ukraine the support it needs for as long as it takes to repel the Russian invasion.' Putin claimed that Mr Arakhamia put his 'preliminary signature' on the deal after direct negotiations with Russians in Istanbul. 'But then he [Arakhamia] publicly stated to the whole world, we were ready to sign this document but Mr Johnson, then the Prime Minister, came and dissuaded us from doing this, saying it was better to fight Russia,' he went on. 'They would give everything needed for us to return what was lost during the clashes with Russia. And we agreed with this proposal'. PM Rishi Sunak (pictured in Plymouth this morning) also waded into the row, branding as 'clearly ridiculous' Putin's repeated claim that the war in Ukraine was a result of Nato expansion. Mr Putin went on: 'And the fact that they obey the demand or persuasion of Mr Johnson, the former Prime Minister of Great Britain, seems ridiculous. 'And it's very sad to me because, as Mr Arakhamia put it, we could have stopped those hostilities with war a year and a half ago already. But the British persuaded us and we refused this. Where is Mr Johnson now? And the war continues.' He accused the US of telling Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to refuse to negotiate any deal and said he wanted to agree a settlement. 'And we made it [a deal],' he said. 'We prepared the huge document in Istanbul that was initialed by the head of the Ukrainian delegation. He had fixed his signature to some of the provisions, not to all of it. He put his signature and then he himself said, we were ready to sign it, and the war would have been over long ago. Eighteen months ago. Cabinet minister Kemi Badenoch has revealed how she and her husband nearly drowned in a flash flood last year as they returned from a constituency event. The Business and Trade Secretary spoke of wading 'waist deep' in fast water during a 'pitch black' night after abandoning their car. 'There could have been a by-election,' the Saffron Walden MP quipped, as she recounted the terrifying ordeal. Ms Badenoch revealed the experience in a wide-ranging interview, in which she also hit back at those who accuse her of plotting to replace Rishi Sunak as Prime Minister. In a nearly 4,000-word article in The Times, Ms Badenoch dismissed claims she's 'on manoeuvres' and furiously denied suggestions she's a puppet of senior Tory men. Cabinet minister Kemi Badenoch has revealed how she and her husband nearly drowned in a flash flood last year as they returned from a constituency event The Business and Trade Secretary, pictured at last year's Conservative Party conference, also dismissed claims she's 'on manoeuvres' for the Tory leadership Ms Badenoch pictured with her husband Hamish and Theresa May. Hamish is an investment banker and a former Tory councillor Ms Badenoch is the bookies' favourite to be the next Tory leader after Mr Sunak. She is also regularly shown to be the most popular Cabinet minister among Tory members in surveys by the influential ConservativeHome website. But Ms Badenoch recently issued a public warning to Tory plotters - who are claimed to want her to take over from Mr Sunak in May - to 'stop messing around'. She also insisted those touting her as the PM's likely replacement are 'not my friends'. In her newspaper interview, Ms Badenoch expressed fresh frustration at those who view her every action as a possible leadership bid. 'If I'm abroad making a trade deal, they say I'm on manoeuvres because I'm distancing myself from the Government,' she said. 'But if I'm here making a speech, somehow I'm on manoeuvres too.' Ms Badenoch also hit out at suggestions she is being pushed towards the leadership by senior Tory aide Dougie Smith and fellow Cabinet minister Michael Gove - who backed her leadership bid in 2022. 'As if I have no thoughts and no opinions of my own,' she said. 'Like they're saying, "She's not that bright. It's some man who is doing this".' She instead pointed to the role of her investment banker husband Hamish in her political career. 'If there's somebody who is doing that, wouldn't it be the person who goes to bed with me every night and pays for my home and so on?,' the mother-of-three added. 'Hamish is a huge influence on how I do things. Which I think is right, because this job affects his life.' Ms Badenoch recounted how, on their return from a constituency event in April, she and Hamish were caught in a flash flood in the family car. 'I always used to think, "How do people die in flash floods?",' she told the newspaper. 'But the water came from nowhere. And there was just a slight dip in the road and suddenly, all the electrics went off. We got out of the car. 'The water was thick and strong and fast. We were wading, waist deep, and it was pitch-black. I had heels on! The car got written off.' She added: 'There could have been a by-election.' Ms Badenoch was born in south-west London after her Nigerian parents came to the UK so her mother could receive medical treatment. Pictured, Kemi Badenoch (second from left) with (left to right) her brother, Fola, Kemi, her sister Lola and mother, Feyi Ms Badenoch won the Saffron Walden constituency for the Tories at the 2017 general election. She is pictured with her baby in a carrier as she is sworn in as an MP in the House of Commons The married mother-of-three, pictured in the kitchen with one of her two daughters in 2017, grew up between Nigeria, the US and the UK and is known for her 'anti-woke' views Ms Badench, pictured on a visit to McDonald's, worked for the restaurant chain while putting herself through college in south London while living with family friends Ms Badenoch, who is Nigerian heritage, also described how her experience among 'stupid lefty white kids' at Sussex University helped form her Conservative views. 'People often ask what made me a Conservative and there was no one thing,' she said. 'But part of it was being at Sussex among snotty, middle-class north Londoners who couldnt get into Oxbridge. 'One of the things that drove me insane was how they talked about Africa. So high-minded: "We need to help Africans"; "Lets boycott Nestle, because they make African mothers give their babies powdered milk". 'Having parents who were doctors, I knew when women are malnourished, formula milk might be a better alternative, and mothers with Aids cant breastfeed at all. 'These stupid lefty white kids didnt know what they were talking about. And that instinctively made me think, "These are not my people".' Sir Billy Connolly has revealed Robin Williams used to terrify guests at his Aberdeenshire mansion by pretending to be a Scottish wildcat. The Big Yin kept a stuffed wildcat next to the fireplace when he owned Candacraig House in Strathdon. Late comedy legend Williams was a regular visitor to the house where Connolly and his wife Pamela held lavish parties. The retired stand-up told how Williams would hide behind the wildcat and make feline aggressive noises to alarm unsuspecting visitors. Glasgow-born Connolly, 81, who is suffering from Parkinsons disease, spoke fondly of his friend as he unveiled his latest art collection which includes a drawing of a wildcat. Robin Williams and Billy Connolly at the Lornach Highland Gathering in 2020 He said: I had a stuffed Scottish wildcat at the fireplace in my house to frighten the person who sat down by the fire. Robin Williams would lift the cat and he would become the cat. He was talking in a Scottish accent and being a wildcat, really getting into character. Somebody would come in, like the guy who had a stretch of the river that he rents out to fishermen. Candacraig House in Aberdeenshire Wildcats are found in the north of Scotland Robin Williams was a huge fan of Scotland and the highland games He said Whats that? and Robin became the wildcat and made that noise that cats make. The guy nearly s**t himself. It was an unbelievable moment in life, watching a genius become a wild animal. It was wonderful. He added: Robin Williams was one of the worlds wonders. He was the real deal. Wildcats are found in the north of Scotland but used to occur throughout Britain. Habitat loss, hunting and persecution led to their decline and they are now on the brink of extinction. Other drawings in Connollys latest collection, sold by art gallery firm Castle Fine Art, include ones inspired by Scottish country dancing and his love of fishing. He and his wife Pamela Stephenson sold their B-listed baronial home in Aberdeenshire in 2014 for almost 3 million. They had bought the property from Body Shop founder Anita Roddick in 1998 and during their time there they became familiar faces at the famous Lonach Gathering which takes place each August. As well as providing a dram for the Men of Lonach during their traditional march through the glen into the park ground, Connolly entertained a host of celebrity friends during the festivities including Williams, Ewan McGregor and Dame Judi Dench. Oscar winner Williams, who starred in Dead Poets Society and Good Will Hunting, passed away aged 63 in 2014. More evidence that Western New York has a compelling interest in immigration reform: For 20 years, federal officials have been unable to deport a drug dealer illegally in this country. Instead, Osvaldo Hodge sits today in the federal detention center in Batavia seeking to be released from the facility. Add to that the uproar unnecessary though it was over the asylum-seekers whom Erie County welcomed last year, and few can dispute that the issue, while most profoundly felt on the nations southern border, echoes loudly here. And, yet, nothing gets done. Both parties have played a role in that dysfunction: Hodges odyssey has run through the presidencies of two Democrats and two Republicans and changing congressional leadership. But not until this week did it become it depressingly obvious that Republicans dont even want to deal with it. Whatever problems our broken immigration system may cause to the nation, the grandly hypocritical Republican Party prefers to maintain it as an election wedge issue. The proof came this week when Republican members rejected a bipartisan immigration bill that gave them just about everything they ever wanted. The drug cartels at least will be pleased. And piling hypocrisy on hypocrisy, that came only hours after the House attempted but failed to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas for, yes, failing to control the border. Regarding Hodge, its fair to insist that everyone who comes into an American courtroom is entitled to due process. Laws are supposed to matter. But they need to matter to everyone, including the public that underwrites them. After repeated run-ins with the law not only is Hodge here illegally, but he has been convicted of both possession and trafficking of cocaine and heroin he has had a fair shake. Indeed, as Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Khalil told District Judge John L. Sinatra, Hes received a lot of due process. We have sympathy for those who come to this country to escape terrible conditions. That doesnt mean that those who enter illegally can be allowed to stay or that the federal government shouldnt do more to control the nations borders, but those who are here are due the consideration of a moral country. Hodge exhausted that consideration long ago. His manipulation of enforcement laws ought to be enough to prompt members of both parties to acknowledge the need to actually solve problems, rather than try to score political points. It doesnt. Under pressure from defendant-in-chief Donald Trump, House Speaker Mike Johnson declared the compromise bill to be dead in his chamber before the Senate could even vote on it. And, on Wednesday, even Senate Republicans repudiated their own hard-won measure. Pathetic doesnt begin to describe it. And, here, our two remaining members of Congress are silent. Nicholas Langworthy, R-23rd District, and Claudia Tenney, R-24th District, said nothing as their party sabotaged a critical and painstakingly negotiated measure. (The 21st District seat is currently vacant, following the resignation last week of former Rep. Brian Higgins, D-Buffalo.) But both voted for the dangerous, showboat measure to impeach Mayorkas, against whom there is zero evidence of the requisite high crimes and misdemeanors. Its a terrible state of affairs when one of the countrys historic political parties is no longer interested in governing, but from Buffalo to Washington, we see the proof. Higgins, now the president and CEO of Sheas Performing Arts Center, cited the increasingly performative nature of Congress as among his reasons for stepping down. Were not sure what the future holds when good public servants walk away while, at the same time, one of the countrys main political parties devolves into a cult. But this much is for sure: It wont do anything to help dealing with the likes of Osvaldo Hodge.s your opinion? Send it to us at lettertoeditor@buffnews.com. Letters should be a maximum of 300 words and must convey an opinion. The column does not print poetry, announcements of community events or thank you letters. A writer or household may appear only once every 30 days. All letters are subject to fact-checking and editing. Cheap electric heaters sold by Temu and Tiktok have been pulled from sale after it was found they could cause electric shocks and even explode. The winter essentials, sold on the websites for as little as 7.20 were a potential fire hazard, a study by consumer group Which? concluded. Tests showed the XH-1201 1200W portable heater sold on Tiktok posed an 'explosion threat'. Another identical heater bought on Temu for 16.98 was found to be too easy to open up, exposing working parts and had 'poor' electrical connections which could cause a fire. Temu had also sold 353 X7 Portable space heaters for 14.99 each which were found to be incorrectly assembled and liable to give users an electric shock. Both Temu and Tiktok said they had removed the heaters from sale, and 'regretted' any concern over the faulty products. Cheap electric heaters sold on Temu and Tiktok were found to be a potential fire hazard and liable to explode, consumer group Which? found The ML-9001 electric heater, sold for 19.47 on Tiktok was found to have dodgy wiring and components missing accreditation marks The appliances were advertised on videos appearing in top searches and viewed by over 100,000 customers The two websites sold products to a combined 11 million UK consumers, with 8.2 million Britons having purchased from Tiktok and 2.8 million on Temu. Other products advertised were found to be poorly built and parts missing evidence of safety certification. The ML-9001 electric heater, sold for 19.47 on Tiktok was found to have dodgy wiring and components missing accreditation marks. Tests also found the Kingavon FH204, on sale for 16.99, while an otherwise safe appliance, was missing safety warnings. But despite removing all seven dangerous heaters from sale along with another 27 identical items, the online marketplaces were found to have simply replaced them with similar listings. Which? called on more legal responsibility to be placed on online platforms, who currently can pass liability for unsafe and illegal products to sellers, who are normally from outside the UK and beyond its regulations. In a search for 'electric heaters', the consumer group found five videos in the first 100 results with a total of 100,000 views, labelled as either 'commission paid' or a 'consumer partnership'. Sue Davies, the head of consumer protection policy at Which? said: 'Cheap electric heaters are a tempting purchase for consumers struggling during the cold winter months, but our latest tests have revealed that models sold on TikTok and Temu are a serious safety risk and must be avoided at all costs. 'It's vital that the government urgently gives greater legal responsibility to online marketplaces for unsafe products so that they are forced to take action to prevent dangerous products ending up in people's homes.' The Kingavon FH204 heater, sold for 16.99, was found to be missing safety warnings Tiktok said it used a combination of 'technology and manual moderation' to regulate products stocked in its online shop Temu said customer safety was its 'highest priority' and had taken 'immediate action' to remove the hazardous items from sale. A spokesperson for the website said: 'We deeply regret any concern or inconvenience caused by the safety issues identified in four electric heaters on our platform. The safety of our customers is our highest priority, and we have taken immediate action to address this issue. 'All four heaters identified by Which? as safety hazards have been removed from Temu. Our proactive monitoring systems had already detected and removed two of these heaters in December, before we received the test results from Which?. T 'The other two were removed from sale on the day we were notified. As an added precaution, we suspended the sale of similar products while we conduct a thorough review to ensure their compliance with safety standards. 'Temu operates a marketplace for independent third-party sellers who must adhere to strict compliance and legal standards before listing their products. 'In instances of non-compliance, we act swiftly to investigate and take necessary measures to protect our customers, which may include product removals and seller account terminations. We also enhance our seller training programs to prevent such issues. 'Customers can contact us 24/7 through our customer service channels about any concerns they may have about the safety of the products they have purchased.' Temu said it 'deeply regretted' the inconvenience to customers and said customer safety was its 'highest priority Tiktok said it used a combination of 'technology and manual moderation' to regulate products stocked in its online shop. 'The heaters have been removed for violating our policies on Electricals and Electronics. TikTok has policies and processes to protect customers and promote a trustworthy shopping experience. 'This includes policies on what can and can't be sold, seller registration and verification requirements, and features like product reviews, reporting tools, and easy returns. 'TikTok uses a combination of technology and manual moderation to enforce our policies for TikTok Shop. If TikTok finds merchants or products that violate their policies, they remove them. 'To promote transparency, products promoted by TikTok Shop Creators are clearly disclosed as eligible for commission or a paid partnership.' Much of England was on flood watch today while snow continued in Scotland after a group of schoolchildren pushed a stranded bus on an icy road in Sheffield. Heavy snow is still falling in Scotland where a Met Office warning for up 8in (10cm) will run until 3pm tomorrow, but concern in England has turned to flooding. More than 400 flood alerts or warnings were in place across the UK. Most of these were in England, with 68 warnings and 311 alerts - mostly in the South and Midlands while there were 21 alerts in Wales, plus two alerts and one warning in Scotland. In Sheffield, the children went into the road to help push a First bus in the snow at the junction between Selbourne Road and Sandygate Road in the Crosspool area. Witness David Kessen, a local journalist for The Star, said the bus got stuck at the top of the road, but 'found help in the unexpected form of a group of schoolchildren'. A man returned to his submerged Audi TT this afternoon amid flooding in Essex Flooding around St Ives in Cambridgeshire today after the River Great Ouse burst its banks Heavy snow covers rooftops in the Northumberland village of Allenheads this morning A car on the side of a road in the Peak District today after the area was hit by heavy snow A car is seen crashed on the side of the snowy A66 at Bowes in County Durham this morning Horse riders on the flooded high street at Alconbury Weston in Cambridgeshire this morning A taxi and a Porsche car are victims of flooding at Buttsbury near Billericay in Essex today High river levels and flooding in the St Ives area of Cambridgeshire is pictured this morning A car is driven through floodwater at Dunsden in the Oxfordshire countryside this morning The Environment Agency issued 68 flood warnings (in red) and 311 alerts (amber) for England He wrote: 'The youngsters gathered behind to try to shove the struggling vehicle, showing again the caring community spirit that the snow brings out in this city. 'Finally, the bus gained some grip, and made it to the top of Selbourne Road, where it turned right, as though to head back into the city centre.' Another witness, Chris Mann, posted a photograph of the incident on X, saying: 'School kids pushing their own bus #snow #sheffield.' The post has now had more than 35,000 views - with one person asking: 'What in the health and safety is going here?!' Another area badly hit by snow yesterday was Buxton in Derbyshire, where a woman was killed in a crash involving a car and lorry on the A515. While Met Office warnings for snow and rain in England have now expired, roads and railways in Scotland could still face disruption along with possible power cuts and mobile phone signal outages. Scotrail warned of disruption on its West Highland Line which was blocked between Arrochar and Tarbet and Ardlui stations due to a fallen tree. Elsewhere a landslip near Baidon in West Yorkshire was impacting Northern trains between Bradford and Ilkley. Great Western Railway said flooding was causing disruption on routes between Bristol Parkway and Swindon, and between Plymouth and Newton Abbot. Ferry operator Calmac said severe conditions were causing cancellations between Kennacraig and Islay; Lochranza and Claonaig; and Mallaig and Armadale. Yesterday, dozens of schools were closed in northern England and North Wales and travel disruption was reported throughout the day as amber warnings were issued. Flooding around St Ives in Cambridgeshire today after the River Great Ouse burst its banks Alconbury Weston in Cambridgeshire is flooded today after the local brook burst its banks A group of schoolchildren push a stranded bus out of the snow in Sheffield yesterday The River Great Ouse burst its banks, leading to flooding at St Ives in Cambridgeshire today Alconbury Weston in Cambridgeshire is flooded today after the local brook burst its banks Flooding around St Ives in Cambridgeshire today after the River Great Ouse burst its banks Alconbury Weston in Cambridgeshire is flooded today after the local brook burst its banks The River Great Ouse burst its banks, leading to flooding at St Ives in Cambridgeshire today Alconbury Weston in Cambridgeshire is flooded today after the local brook burst its banks Flooding around St Ives in Cambridgeshire today after the River Great Ouse burst its banks The River Great Ouse burst its banks, leading to flooding at St Ives in Cambridgeshire today The Met Office measured 3.9in (10cm) of snow at Kirkwall in Orkney yesterday, and 3.5in (9cm) was recorded in Bingley, West Yorkshire. READ MORE Snow sparks road chaos with vans and cars skidding all over the place Advertisement A total of 1.7in (43.2mm) of rainfall was measured at Harbertonford in south Devon, almost half the average for the area in February. Met Office operational meteorologist Dan Stroud said: 'We've still got rain and many have snow making its way northwards, we have got further weather warnings in force. 'Temperatures are recovering a little, across the far south it's generally mild. We've got a second band of cloud and rain moving northwards, it makes for challenging driving conditions. 'We've had the worst of it but it's still not completely clear. Where we have falling snow we see there is a risk of a few icy patches on roads. 'The focus is probably starting to shift more towards ice, people should still be cautious.' Heavy snow at Allenheads in Northumberland today after weather warnings were issued A snow plough clears the road in the Northumberland village of Allenheads this morning A snowboarder makes the most of the conditions at Allenheads in Northumberland today Heavy snow covers rooftops in the Northumberland village of Allenheads this morning A man clears snow outside The Allenheads Inn in the Northumberland village this morning Heavy snow covers rooftops in the Northumberland village of Allenheads this morning A snowboarder makes the most of the conditions at Allenheads in Northumberland today A snow plough clears the road in the Northumberland village of Allenheads this morning Heavy snow covers rooftops in the Northumberland village of Allenheads this morning A man clears snow outside The Allenheads Inn in the Northumberland village this morning Heavy snow at Allenheads in Northumberland today after weather warnings were issued A snowboarder makes the most of the conditions at Allenheads in Northumberland today A man clears snow outside The Allenheads Inn in the Northumberland village this morning Heavy snow covers rooftops in the Northumberland village of Allenheads this morning A snow plough clears the road in the Northumberland village of Allenheads this morning A snowboarder makes the most of the conditions at Allenheads in Northumberland today A snow plough clears the road in the Northumberland village of Allenheads this morning School closures were reported yesterday in Wales, Yorkshire, Derbyshire, Staffordshire and Cumbria. Caroline Abrahams, charity director at Age UK, urged older people to do all they can to keep warm and safe as the temperature drops. She said: 'High energy bills and food prices mean it is understandable that some may think they have to cut back on food and turn their heating off, but prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can have a serious impact on their health, especially if they are already managing existing illnesses. 'As we get older our bodies find it harder to adjust to big changes in temperature, particularly if we are also coping with ill health or mobility issues. The cold raises blood pressure, which in turn increases the risk of a heart attack or stroke.' The charity gave a number of tips including plenty of hot food and drinks, wrapping up warm outside and sleeping with the windows closed at night. It also advised people to keep an eye on older relatives, friends and neighbours. A former nightclub boss who was forced to quit her job and stop wearing high heels after she tripped over a gastropub doormat has won 124,000 in compensation. India-Lee Brooks, 32, had to give up dancing after she fell over at the Royal Saracen's Head in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, in December 2016. She badly damaged ligaments in her foot and was also forced to quit her job as a sales manager at a Windsor nightclub. Central London County Court heard she now even has problems brushing her teeth due to difficulties standing for long periods. Ms Brooks, who is now an admin executive, sued the owners of the pub - giant hospitality chain Mitchell and Butlers Retail Ltd. A former nightclub boss who was forced to quit her job and stop wearing high heels after she tripped over a gastropub doormat has won 124,000 in compensation India-Lee Brooks, 32, (pictured) had to give up dancing after she fell over at the Royal Saracen's Head in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, in December 2016 The company - which owns a number of pub brands including All Bar One and Toby Carvery - admitted liability over the accident but disputed the amount of her compensation claim. Now a judge, Recorder John Dagnall has awarded her 112,585 in damages which, with accumulated interest added on, will take her total payout to just over 124,000. The court heard that as well as forcing her off the dancefloor, Ms Brooks' injuries have limited her to mainly sedentary work which forced her to leave her job. But lawyers for the pub chain claimed Ms Brooks had exaggerated the time scale of her injuries as well as wrongly stating that her injuries had driven her out of her nightclub role. They argued she was guilty of 'fundamental dishonesty' in claiming that the fall terminated her nightclub post and that her case should be thrown out. Ms Brooks' legal team highlighted medical evidence demonstrating that many of her symptoms are still ongoing whilst defence lawyers suggested her symptoms were 'largely resolved' by July 2017. Colm Nugent, Ms Brooks' barrister, told the court she suffered from acute pain after her accident and had to use crutches. He added that she switched to working as an assistant teacher because she couldn't cope with the physical demands of working on the nightclub floor. The Royal Saracen's Head in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, where Ms Brooks tripped over the doormat As well as having to give up her hobbies of dancing, she also had to forsake wearing high heels, the court heard. Defence lawyers challenged Ms Brooks' claims that the pub fall caused her to leave her job and showed evidence which they claimed was proof she had left the post four days before the accident. She initially worked as a teaching assistant before getting her current office job. But Recorder John Dagnall labelled Ms Brooks an 'honest and credible witness' whose evidence he accepted. He told the court: 'It wasn't proved on the balance of probabilities that the claimant has made any misleading statements and therefore it was not proved that she was dishonest - let alone fundamentally dishonest.' The judge concluded that Ms Brooks switched to being a teaching assistant due to her pub fall, adding: 'Her switch to teaching was an involuntary choice following the accident and her injury. 'The injury did result in her leaving her employment in early January 2017 with the result that she was forced to obtain a job in the teaching sector. 'I also find that the injury and its consequences did continue.' A British woman has been killed alongside her friend in a horror head-on crash with a lorry hours after arriving in Kenya for a holiday. The woman died yesterday morning in a road accident on the Nairobi-Nakuru highway. A male friend who had collected her from the airport also died at the site of the crash, while their driver sustained serious injuries during the incident, which took place at 4am along the busy road, Nairobian newspaper the Star reports. The car was making its way to Nakuru and hit a lorry. The driver was taken to Naivasha subcounty hospital in critical condition, while those inside the lorry were unharmed. Police officer Stephen Kirui said the British woman was collected at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi by the driver and her friend. The woman was killed yesterday morning in a road accident on the Nairobi-Nakuru highway. Police officer Stephen Kirui said the British woman collected at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi by the driver and her friend (File Photo) He said initial investigations showed that the car driver swerved from the lane and made a head-on collision with the lorry that was on its way to Nairobi. Kirui said: 'In the process, the British national who was visiting the country and one male died on the spot while their driver was seriously injured and is admitted to the sub-county hospital.' The two bodies were transported to the Naivasha sub-county hospital mortuary. The damaged car was towed to the police station and an inquiry was launched. The accident came after a Kenyan man suspected of murdering his girlfriend in the United States and leaving her body in an airport car park escaped from custody in Nairobi. Kevin Kangethe was being detained pending extradition to the United States over the death of Margaret Mbitu late last year, but slipped out of a police station on Wednesday evening. 'This is embarrassing,' Nairobi police chief Adamson Bungei said. 'We have arrested the four officers who were on duty when he escaped to explain how this happened and we are looking for him,' he added. US and Kenyan authorities had launched a manhunt after Mbitu was found stabbed to death in a car park at Boston's Logan airport in November. An arrest warrant was issued for Kangethe after he fled the United States for his native Kenya, where he was arrested in late January. The parents of 23-year-old Sgt. Alec Langen have identified him as one of the five Marines who were tragically killed when their CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter went down in the mountains close to San Diego on Tuesday. In a heartbreaking interview with ABC San Diego, Steve and Caryn Langen revealed that their son got married a little over a month before his death. It was his new bride who told his parents that their son had not returned home following the accident. 'He died with people he wanted to be with, doing what he loved and wanted to do,' his father told the station through tears. Their son, a native of Arizona, had been serving as crew chief on the doomed flight. The grieving, a former Marine himself, father added: 'I would give anything to be able to trade places.' The military confirmed Thursday that all five Marines were killed when their helicopter went down during stormy weather, and efforts were underway to recover their remains. Sgt. Alec Langen pictured on his father's Facebook page. He was 23 years old Alec married his wife Casey in early January and were planning to move to North Carolina where he was going to be stationed In a heartbreaking interview with ABC San Diego, Steve and Caryn Langen revealed that their son got married a little over a month before his death It was his new bride who told his parents that their son had not returned home following the accident Marine Corps officials notified the families in person while Marines have been stationed round-the-clock at the site to stay with the remains, said Col. James C. Ford, operations officer with 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego. In his interview, Steve Langen revealed that he too served on the same helicopter as his son for the Marines between 1986 and 1995. 'We are so thankful to the San Diego responders that went up there and searched for them and found that crew. Without them, they wouldn't be coming home,' his mother said. According to a Facebook post from his mother, Alec married his wife Casey in early January and were planning to move to North Carolina where he was going to be stationed. Citing the 'hazardous terrain and weather' at the site, Ford said the ground recovery efforts will take place over coming weeks as an investigation into the crash is conducted. Per military policy, the names of the Marines are not released until 24 hours after all next-of-kin have been notified. 'He died with people he wanted to be with, doing what he loved and wanted to do,' his father said through tears The native of Arizona had been serving as crew chief on the doomed flight. He is pictured above in a different flight Authorities are still working to recover the Marines' remains. Sgt. Alec Langen is pictured right A U.S. Marine carries rescue gear at a command center Wednesday in Kitchen Creek, CA Marine Corps leaders, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and President Joe Biden expressed their condolences. 'It is with a heavy heart and profound sadness that I share the loss of five outstanding Marines from 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and the 'Flying Tigers,' Maj. Gen. Michael J. Borgschulte, commander of the wing, said in a statement. Authorities say the CH-53E Super Stallion vanished late Tuesday night while conducting a flight training on their way back to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego from Creech Air Force Base, northwest of Las Vegas. The last known contact with the Super Stallion was at about 11:30 p.m. Tuesday, when waves of downpours and snow were hitting the region, Mike Cornette of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection told CBS 8 news. That location was based on a 'ping' reported to a Cal Fire dispatch center. The Navy helicopter took off from Nevada to San Diego on Tuesday night The CH-53E Super Stallion is the heavy-lift chopper most commonly used by the Marines to transport troops and equipment Marines fly the model in the 'most challenging environments you can think of,' said Timothy Loranger, a former Marine Corps aircraft mechanic and now civilian pilot and lawyer who specializes in aviation crashes. 'But even knowing that, it's important for those making the decisions to decide whether the risk is worth it,' he said. 'Here was a training mission with the crew flying back home to Miramar, so you have to ask, why fly in this weather now? Was this poor judgement or some pilot error issue? These are very important questions that have to be asked.' A mechanical issue in bad weather would also make flying even harder. And while the helicopter was designed for bad weather, ice accumulation on rotor blades could disrupt the ability to create lift for the craft and cause it to crash, Loranger said. All this will be part of the investigation, Loranger said, adding that its too early to speculate on what occurred. He said the Super Stallion has a long history of being reliable, but its not perfect. The craft was discovered Wednesday morning near Pine Valley, an hours drive from San Diego. The helicopter was heading to the Marine Corps Air Station in Miramar, known for being the home of the Top Gun program - and the movie of the same name The mountain community is at about 3,700 feet in elevation in the Cuyamaca Mountains, an area which saw as much 8 inches of accumulating snow within hours Tuesday night and early Wednesday and saw more falling Wednesday night, forecasters said. The area includes San Diego Countys second highest mountain, Cuyamaca Peak, at 6,512 feet, and is also near the Cleveland National Forest, which covers 720 square miles with much of it steep, rocky and with limited trails. The five Marines were assigned to Miramars Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing at Miramar. Capt. Stephanie Leguizamon, spokesperson for the wing, said she had little information beyond the statement but noted that recovery efforts were being hampered by snowfall from the storm that was moving out of California on Thursday. 'I do know that its cold... I know thats been a contentious issue' for searchers in reaching the crash site, she said. Measuring about 99 feet long and weighing up to nearly 35 tons, the CH-53E Super Stallion has been used in combat and other operations around the world for more than three decades, including in Beirut, Somalia, the Persian Gulf, Afghanistan, Iraq and Libya, according to a U.S. Navy website. In 2018, four Marines from Miramar died when their Super Stallion crashed near El Centro, near the California-Mexico border, during a training mission. The Marine Corps ruled out pilot error for the accident. The victims families later sued two companies they alleged provided a defective part that they blamed for the crash. In 2005, a Super Stallion went down in a sandstorm in Iraq, killing 31 people on board. The accident, blamed on pilot error, was the single deadliest loss of U.S. troops during the war. More than 130 are in operation. Nicknamed the 'hurricane maker' because of the downwash from its three engines, the Super Stallion has a range of about 640 miles. It was designed to carry up to 55 troops or about 16 tons of cargo. Virgin Media is facing an Ofcom over customers being forced to switch from analogue to digital landlines after 'serious incidents' when life-saving personal alarms stopped working. In December last year, telecommunication firms agreed to pause forcing customers on to the new digital phone network following a number of incidents involving the failure of personal telecare alarms. Ofcom said it wanted to look into Virgin Media's compliance in two areas: the rules around taking necessary measures to ensure uninterrupted access for customers to emergency organisations, and rules on the fair treatment of vulnerable customers. The telecoms industry is currently upgrading landline services to new digital technology using an internet connection, such as Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), Digital Voice or All-IP telephony. Some concerns have been raised about the aspects of the transition, particularly how it could impact vulnerable people who use telecare alarm systems emergency buttons which automatically call the emergency services when pressed via a user's landline. Virgin Media is being investigated over its compliance with rules to protect vulnerable customers during the switch from analogue to digital phone lines The telecoms industry is currently upgrading landline services to new digital technology using an internet connection This is when the change from the old copper network to a new broadband-based connection will take place across the UK While telecare systems do work with digital landlines, a power cut or internet drop-out can cause them to fail, while copper phone lines typically continue to work even during power cuts. READ MORE: BT and telecom giants agree to pause forced rollout of digital landlines after elderly and vulnerable customers reported life-saving personal alarms stopped working if internet drops out Advertisement On its investigation into Virgin Media, Ofcom said: 'Ofcom has opened an own-initiative investigation into Virgin Media's compliance with its obligations under the general conditions of entitlement, while migrating customers from analogue to digital landlines. 'We have been clear with companies that they must, during this process, ensure they identify, protect and support vulnerable customers. 'A critically important function of the telephone network is to allow people, particularly vulnerable people, to contact the emergency services. 'Therefore, any action, or inaction, taken by communications providers which disrupts consumers' ability to reach these services is of the utmost seriousness.' The regulator said it would publish further information on the progress of the investigation in due course. In response, a spokesperson for Virgin Media said: 'We have been regularly updating and working closely with Ofcom and Government for many years as essential work takes place across the industry to safeguard voice networks for future. A report last year revealed the UK areas with the fastest and slowest broadband 'Last December we signed a Government-led charter and have paused all landline migrations, carried out an end-to-end review and will make further improvements to the measures we already have in place before switchovers restart. 'While telecoms companies like us have a crucial role to play in this switchover activity, it's essential that telecare companies and local authorities also step up and meet their responsibilities to ensure everyone receives the support they need. 'We're co-operating fully with the regulator's investigation and will continue to work closely with the rest of the industry and other parties.' Dennis Reed, director of Silver Voices which represents the over-60s, previously told MailOnline last year that the switchover is 'going too far too fast' as he appealed for MPs and government to get involved. Mr Reed said: 'BT and the other telecom providers have made these grand promises that vulnerable people would be protected but as all these case studies show that's the last thing that's happening. 'They are being made less safe by this fast rollout. 'It's going to become a bigger issue and become a political issue in the run up to the general election politicians are going to be asked about it. The government can't ignore this issue, but at the moment they are. 'The politicians will have to get involved in this subject because their constituents are going to start demanding it.' Those with a sweet-tooth could be in for a nasty surprise when buying their favorite chocolate at the supermarket this month. Cocoa prices surged to an all-time high and are now double what they were a year ago as El Nino has wreaked havoc on the global supply. The weather phenomenon caused dried temperatures in West Africa, where three quarters of the world-wide supply of cocoa beans - which are used to produce cocoa - are grown. Particularly affected were growers in Ghana and Ivory Coast - the two largest producers - 'yields of cocoa are now permanently impaired', Humza Hussain, a commodities analyst, told CNBC. This caused prices of cocoa to surge by more than $1,000, which is nearly 40 per cent since the start of the year. The weather phenomenon caused dried temperatures in West Africa, where three quarters of the world-wide supply of cocoa beans (pods in which they are growing pictured) - which are used to produce cocoa - are grown The price of cocoa per metric ton was at an all-time high of $5,874 yesterday and the impact could be passed on to consumers via price increases (file image of workers collecting dry cocoa beans in West Africa) The price per metric ton was at an all-time high of $5,874 yesterday and the impact could be passed on to consumers via price increases. Impacted by these higher prices are chocolate makers like Hershey, whose CEO, Michele Buck, said that the earnings growth will likely be flat for the company this year. Hershey's last quarter in 2023 already showed a 12 per cent decrease in net income compared to the same period the year before. But Buck was optimistic as he told CNBC: 'As we look at those record cocoa prices, certainly it's a dynamic market and those are a challenge but we have lived through market volatility and fluctuation in input costs before.' 'Going back 47 years, almost every major price blip was followed by a massive 20-50% price break, within one to two years. Is this situation different? According to my sources in the cocoa bush of West Africa...YES!' said Jim Roemer, meteorologist and commodity trading advisor at Best Weather Inc. 'At least for now, a squeeze situation may well continue for another month or two,' he added, citing current damage to the cocoa crop from strong Harmattan winds in top producing region West Africa. Exporters and pod counters in No. 2 cocoa producer Ghana said output for the current 2023-24 season is expected to reach just 475,000-500,000 tons versus 655,000 last year. Last week, a Reuters cocoa poll forecast a global deficit of 375,000 tons in the 2023/24 season, more than double the average view in the previous poll in August, and indicating a third successive supply deficit for the market. File image of cocoa farmers extracting cocoa beans at a cocoa plantation near Bringakro village, in Djekanou sub-prefecture An industry source said that traders feared the shortage will extend into next year, with missing volumes from this season's crop having to be filled with beans from the next. 'What happens if the crop is poor next season?' he asked. This comes after cocoa prices already surged to a 44-year high of $3,786 per metric ton on October 23, which was also attributed in part to El Nino disrupting production in West Africa. David Branch, an analyst at Wells Fargo's Agri-Food Institute, told CNBC that the Ivory Coast, Ghana, Cameroon and Nigeria together account for nearly 75 percent of the global cocoa bean harvest. READ MORE: Chocflation! Bars could shrink even further in size amid rise in cocoa prices because of heavy rain in Africa Advertisement 'There is not much room for error, which makes cocoa especially vulnerable to climate change,' said Branch. Experts said weather-related disruptions have been exacerbated by El Nino, a naturally occurring cycle of warmer waters in the equatorial Pacific. Ivory Coast, the world's top cocoa producer, is in its rainy season, which runs officially from April to mid-November. Harvesting was picking up and more trucks were loading beans in villages, farmers told Reuters back in October, adding that most of the main crop would leave the bush from mid-November to late January. Plenty of small pods were appearing on trees, said farmers from the center-western region of Daloa and the central regions of Bongouanou and Yamoussoukro, where rains were above average. They added that the harvest will be abundant in February and March if it continues to rain until late November. 'We're starting to get a lot of cocoa and the conditions are being put in place for a long and abundant (main crop) season,' said Benjamin Dje, a farmer on the outskirts of Daloa. Pennsylvania senator John Fetterman blasted Harvard University for hosting a controversial Palestinian scholar who justified Hamas' October attacks against Israel. 'I am truly appalled that the Kennedy School would platform an individual who celebrates and justifies Hamas' October 7th killing of Israeli citizensbabies, children, the elderly, and the systemic, rape, mutilation, and torture of young girls and women,' Fetterman posted on X. Fetterman was responding to news that Dalal Saeb Iriqat, an Associate Professor at the Arab American University, is due to appear at the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at Harvard's Kennedy school on March 7. Iriqat came under fire in the wake of the terror attacks after posting online that the resulting 1,200 deaths and hundreds of abductions were 'just a normal human struggled for freedom'. She doubled down in the face of criticism, sharing another post blaming Israel for the attacks the next day. Pennsylvania senator John Fetterman blasted Harvard University for hosting a controversial Palestinian scholar who justified Hamas ' October attacks against Israel Dalal Saeb Iriqat is due to appear at the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at Harvard's Kennedy school on March 7 Iriqat came under fire in the wake of the terror attacks after posting online that the resulting 1,200 deaths and hundreds of abductions were 'just a normal human struggled for freedom 'We will never forgive the Israeli right wing extreme government for making us take their children and elderly as hostages,' she posted on X, formerly Twitter. 'The Israeli public need to realize that their own government had caused all this bloodshed and they remain the ones responsible for this escalation and losses of civilians lives.' Fetterman's comments continue to show his distancing himself from the Leftist sides of the Democratic Party following the October 7 attacks, showing strong support for Israel amid their counterattack in Gaza. 'I'm not a progressive,' he previously said. 'I just think I'm a Democrat that is very committed to choice and other things. But with Israel, I'm going to be on the right side of that. And immigration is something near and dear to me, and I think we do have to effectively address it as well.' Meanwhile Iriqat's Harvard appearance is part of a series entitled Middle East Dialogues, billed as conversations to 'understand what is happening and to expose them to the best thinking on how peace may be achieved'. Her invitation comes as Harvard is struggling to repair its reputation after being accused of failing to act on anti-Semitism on its campus since October 7. The university parted ways with former president Claudine Gay amid a backlash towards her public statements around tackling anti-Semitism at her school. These included a disastrous Congressional hearing where she failed to state calling for a Jewish genocide would constitute hate speech. Jewish students are also filing a lawsuit accusing the school of enabling anti-Semitism. In the months since the attack, around 25,000 Palestinians have been killed by retaliatory strikes by Israel, according to the Hamas-controlled Palestinian authorities. Welsh farmers are protesting against new rules ordering them to set aside land for tree planting and wildlife they say will be 'the death' of their livelihoods. Farming industry chiefs have warned of 'huge unrest' ahead as a mass rally featured a mock coffin in anger against rewilding reforms by Wales's Labour government. About 3,000 people attended the event last night at Carmarthen Showground in Nantyci last night - a week after more than 1,000 demonstrated in Welshpool. Placards were held high showing slogans such as 'In memory of Welsh farming', 'RIP Welsh farming' and 'No farmers, no food' in response to proposals insisting on new levels of land which must be reserved for trees and for wildlife. The outry comes as farmers have also been staging anti-EU protests across Europe including in Italy and Poland over issues such as taxes and green regulation. Some 3,000 farmers attended a protest at Carmarthen Showground, Nantyci, on February 8 Welsh farmers are protesting against proposed new rules ordering them to set aside land for tree planting and wildlife they worry will be 'the death' of their livelihoods Farmers showed slogans including 'No farmers, no food' as well as 'RIP Welsh farming' Welsh former international rugby referee Nigel Owens was among the speakers at the Carmarthen event, as concerns were raised about the rewilding plans. The Welsh government has put forward the Wales Sustainable Farming Scheme it says will reward farmers 'for responding to the climate and nature emergencies, as well as producing food in a sustainable way'. The programme, scheduled to come into force next year, has been opposed by the NFU Cymru farmers' union which fears it could lead to as many as 5,500 job losses. A recent report suggested every farm in the country taking part could cause a 10.8 per cent cut in livestock numbers and an 11 per cent reduction in labour. Last night's meeting passed a motion calling for organisers to enter into direct negotiations with the Welsh government. Ministers have been working on the new post-Brexit subsidy scheme for farms, with the current proposals stipulating that farms should ensure 10 per cent of land is planted with trees and 10 per cent treated as wildlife habitat to be eligible for cash. Opponents say this will be unworkable and impose too much extra paperwork. Farming industry worker Dorian Griffiths, from Carmarthen, said: 'Without the farmers there would be no food in the supermarkets. 'People who do not realise they are actually dependent on the farmers for their livelihood. This is a chance we can't miss.' NFU Cymru deputy president Abi Reader said: 'This is such a different model to what's been there in the past - it's going to have catastrophic impacts on farming businesses. 'I was in a meeting last night and somebody said they went home and just cried.' And Farmers' Union of Wales president Ian Rickman said: 'It's more or less inevitable there will be some form of protest.' He also told of other concerns over stricter rules on fertiliser spreading and bovine TB, adding: 'Members feel like they've come to the limit, they've come to the edge.' The Welsh government Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths suggested that 'some of the proposals will have to be changed', adding: 'There's no point having a consultation if you don't listen to it.' She insisted: 'I've always been a minister who wants to work in partnership and I hope the industry has been able to see that over the last few years. 'This consultation is meaningful and it's really important people put in their responses.' The NFU Cymru farmers' union fears new rules could lead to as many as 5,500 job losses Last night's Carmarthen rally, pictured, came a week after another demo in Welshpool Farmers have been protest elsewhere in Europe, including here in Poznan, Poland A demonstrator holds a flare in the Polish farmers' protest over taxes and green regulation Farmers blocked a road in Pamplona, Spain, as part of ongoing protests against the Eu A tractor was also used to send a message about farmers' grievances in Poznan, Poland Farmers in Spain and Poland demonstrated today as part of ongoing protests against European Union farming policies and to demand measures to combat production cost hikes, reduced profits and unfair competition from non-EU countries. The actions follow similar ones in other EU members in recent weeks with farmers complaining that the 27-nation bloc's environmental and other policies are a financial burden and make their products more expensive than non-EU imports. The European Commission, the EU's executive arm, has made some concessions to farmers over the last few weeks, including shelving plans to halve the use of pesticides and other dangerous substances. But the protests have spread. In Poland, farmers angered especially by imports of cheap grain, milk and other produce from Ukraine drove tractors across the country to slow down traffic and block major roads - some displaying signs that read 'EU Policy is Ruining Polish Farmers.' Adrian Wawrzyniak, spokesman for the Solidarity Union of Individual Farmers, said: 'The protest is directed against the policy of the European Union, against the Green Deal and against the policy that allows for an uncontrolled inflow of farming produce from Ukraine.' He said storage warehouses are filled with Ukraine grain causing prices to fall 40 per cent in 2023 - while there was lower demand for Polish sugar, milk and meat, making farmers hold off on investments. Farmers are also concerned that the EU's Green Deal - which calls for limiting the use of chemicals and limiting green gas emissions - will cause a reduction in production and income. They say the EU's requirement for four per cent of farmland to be devoted to biodiversity and landscape protection would also negatively effect their output. Farmers in Spain staged similar actions in their fourth straight day of protests. Today's demos centred around the northern cities of Oviedo, Pamplona and Zaragoza, with tractors clogging several city streets and commuter roads. A group not affiliated with Spain's three main farming organisations has called for farmers to move on Madrid at midnight tomorrow for a protest near the headquarters of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's Socialist party. Spanish police said 20 people were arrested during this week's demonstrations. A farmer drove his tractor outside Italian capital Rome's Colosseum in the latest demo there This protester in Rome shares the slogan: 'Without farmers, no food, no future' Polish farmers have also used tractors to block traffic in Gdansk The Poznan demonstrations have been fuelled by new European Union proposals A wheelbarrow spraypainted with 'EU' was deployed in Poznan, Poland The owners of a Colorado funeral home accused of abandoning 190 bodies spent money taken from families on vehicles, crypto and lavish dinners, a court has heard. Jon and Carie Hallford face 250 charges of forgery, theft, money laundering and abuse of a corpse after nearly 200 decaying bodies were discovered at their Return to Nature funeral home in Colorado Springs. Investigators discovered 'abhorrent conditions' when they raided the property in October after repeated complaints from neighbors about the 'dead animal smell' sitting over the area. Horrified police discovered 190 dead bodies abandoned in rooms where 'human decomposition fluids and insects lined the floors'. Relatives who paid $1,290 for an eco-friendly cremation and the promise of a tree planting in the Colorado National Forest were allegedly handed 'concrete dust' rather than ashes while their loved ones were shelved and forgotten about. On Thursday, it was detailed how they used money from families to buy two vehicles worth $120,000, enough to cover the costs twice over for all of the bodies found in their storage facility. Jon and Carie Hallford face 250 charges of forgery, theft, money laundering and abuse of a corpse after nearly 200 decaying bodies were discovered at their funeral home Chrystina Page, right, holds back Heather De Wolf, as she yells at Jon Hallford, left, , as he leaves with his lawyers following a preliminary hearing, Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024 FBI Agent Andrew Cohen testified while John Hallford looked straight ahead seated at the defense table. He did not appear to show any reaction. Some of the bodies had been in the maggot-infested building for years before they were discovered following reports of a foul odor. Families who hired Return to Nature to cremate their relatives said that the FBI confirmed their remains were among the decaying bodies. The testimony about the Hallfords' spending practices came during a hearing in which a judge determined prosecutors presented enough evidence to show Jon Hallford should stand trial on criminal charges. The judge previously ruled that Carie Hallford will also stand trial. The couple were arrested in November in Oklahoma. Neither one of them has entered a plea yet. Investigators have been gathering evidence since the bodies were found. Jon Hallford's lawyer argued that the prosecution had not shown that money from the couple's account was spent to conceal the source of the funds, which meant it did not amount to a crime of money laundering. He also said that one of the vehicles was purchased using money the couple received from the federal Small Business Administration. Families who hired Return to Nature to cremate their relatives said that the FBI confirmed their remains were among the decaying bodies A hearse and van sit outside the Return to Nature Funeral Home, Oct. 6, 2023, in Penrose, Colorado Neither one of them has entered a plea yet. Investigators have been gathering evidence since the bodies were found Cohen said that money, an adjustment to a pandemic-era small business loan given to the Hallfords, was fraudulently obtained after Hallford lied by saying he was not behind on child support payments. In addition to their funeral home, they used a building in the nearby rural community of Penrose as a body storage facility, prosecutors say. Angelika Stedman hired the home to cremate her 24-year-old daughter and still does not know for sure what happened to her body. Her daughter is not among those whose remains have been identified so far at the Penrose facility. 'They would have still had plenty of profit if they had done what they were supposed to do,' she said after listening to the testimony. Mark Miller, whose brother was one of the bodies recovered at the facility, told The Denver Gazette last month: 'Im very happy with the judges findings to (bind) over the charges so we can all go ahead and take the next step. 'I dont agree with (the bond reductions), and Im kind of upset. But on the other hand, I know that (the judge) is bound by certain criteria, regulation and rules, so I have to try and understand that, too.' The company opened for business in 2017 offering 'a natural way of caring for your loved one with minimal environmental impact.' By the time of the raid it owed more than $120,000 in unpaid bills and had been repeatedly taken to court over unpaid wages and disputes with local medical centers. At an earlier hearing for Carie Hallford, prosecutors presented texts suggesting that she and her husband tried to cover up their financial difficulties by leaving the bodies at the Penrose site. Relatives said they raised their suspicions with the couple but were fobbed off each time. Samantha Naranjo (right) discovered that the body of mother Dorothy had been warehoused for more than a year in the dilapidated building When the family of retired Army officer Tanya Wilson received her ashes, her brother Elliot thought they were unusually heavy and confronted Carie Hallford. When he took them to a nearby funeral director he was told 'I've never seen anything that looks like that in the range of what cremated remains would typically expect to look like.' Two families were so suspicious they mixed the 'ashes' with water and found that they solidified. Samantha Naranjo discovered that the body of mother Dorothy had been warehoused for more than a year in the dilapidated building. She told KRDO: 'We were hurt, we were frustrated, now we're angry. We want justice. Not just for us, but every single one of those victims. Every one of them. 'Their family deserves to be at peace, the community deserves justice.' Jon Hallford was released from the El Paso County jail in late January after posting a $100,000 bond. Carie Hallford remained in jail on Thursday on a $100,000 bond. Carie Hallford is scheduled to make her next appearance in court on March 21 for an arraignment hearing. A hateful British Army veteran who encouraged terrorism by glorifying the murderer of MP Jo Cox has been jailed for two years and eight months. Kieran Turner, 37, of Earby, Lancashire, published a statement in January 2019 calling for '650 Thomas Mair's' (sic) and hailing the terrorist killer as a 'hero'. He also reposted still images of the March 2019 Christchurch mosque shootings in New Zealand and attempted to share live-streamed video footage taken by the perpetrator. Joe Allman, prosecuting, told Manchester Crown Court the case arose out of the defendant's activities on the Gab online platform where he described himself as 'British Army veteran English Nationalist'. Turner had an 'impressionable audience' of 773 followers on his publicly accessible account and he in turn followed 213 users, the court was told. Kieran Turner, 37, of Earby, Lancashire, published a statement in January 2019 calling for '650 Thomas Mair's' (sic) and hailing the terrorist killer as a 'hero' Labour MP Jo Cox was murdered by Thomas Mair on June 16, 2016 in in Birstall, West Yorkshire His criminality was uncovered when officers examined a Samsung tablet discovered under his bed when he was arrested at his home in Earlesdown Avenue in November 2021, said Mr Allman. The prosecutor said Turner used the platform to share and re-share material which expressed 'virulent' misogynistic, homophobic and transphobic views, as well as displaying extreme racism, Islamophobia and 'deep hostility' towards Jewish people. Mr Allman said the comment about the Batley and Spen MP's murder in June 2016 was made in reply to a post from another platform user and included a reference to the number of members of Parliament and the hashtag 'ThomasMairHero'. Turner had also reposted a link to the Christchurch mass murderer's 'manifesto'. Commenting on the video footage the defendant wrote: 'Cheers. Just the thing to put a smile on my face before heading to work this morning.' In another post, he said: 'It should be on repeat on ITV every couple of hours instead of Jeremy Kyle.' Mr Allman said the Crown did not accept Turner's explanation that his postings were intended to be humorous. Thomas Mair, who murdered MP Jo Cox Turner pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing to one count of encouraging terrorism, two counts of disseminating terrorist publications and seven counts of stirring up racial hatred between January 2019 and September 2020. On Thursday, Turner received an extended sentence and must serve two years and eight months in custody followed by a period of 12 months on extended licence. Judge Alan Conrad KC told him: 'I find you were at least reckless as to whether other people would act on your opinions. The danger in these cases is that there is a risk that one person could act on these posts with terrible consequences.' He noted that Turner, who had no previous convictions, was more prone to radicalisation because of his diagnosed autism spectrum disorder. Sarah Day, defending, said Turner had features of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following his time in the armed forces and had also suffered from depression. She said: 'He very much now recognises what he has done and is genuinely ashamed and remorseful for it. 'It is quite clear that he has taken steps to move himself away from that behaviour and that mindset.' After his sentencing, Nick Price, Head of the CPS Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division, said: 'Kieran Turner's extreme views and his relentless attempts to stir up hatred have no place in society. 'His online posts and comments were abhorrent and far-right extremists such as Turner have the potential to threaten public safety and security. The CPS will always seek to prosecute such appalling online criminal behaviour, and it is only right that Turner has been sentenced today for his crimes.' A TikTok and Instagram influencer with two young children has told of her horror after discovering the woman she had begun dating is a convicted sex offender. Ashleigh Huish, 35, who revels in her plus size body, has 440,000 followers on her @ashslifestories Instagram and 1.3m on TikTok. She had started dating a new girlfriend called Gee recently - unaware that the woman is in fact Gayle Newland who was at the centre of a notorious sexual assault and exploitation case. Huish has now dumped Newland after learning of her criminal past. Newland, 34, was convicted of a string of sexual assaults in 2017 after using a 20 prosthetic penis sex toy and blindfold to con a student into believing she was having sex with a man. The former personal trainer pretended to be a half-Filipino half-Latino man named Kye Fortune and wore a fake penis to have sex up to ten times with the young woman over two years. Gayle Newland (left) is led away after she was convicted in 2015. She was in a relationship with Ashleigh Huish (right) Ashleigh Huish (left), 35, has been in a relationship with Gayle Newland who was at the centre of a notorious sexual assault case in 2017 Gayle Newland, 34, made national headlines when she was convicted of a string of sexual assaults in 2017 This 'astonishing deception' was to quench her own 'bizarre sexual satisfaction', Manchester Crown Court heard. Its believed that Huish met Newland late last year and briefly became romantically involved with her - until followers alerted her to Newlands criminal past. Earlier this week, Huish, posted that she had been devasted by her discovery of Newlands deception and said she was suspending her social media. Mother-of-two Huish, from St Albans, Herts, then posted a statement to fans, saying: Sometimes people come into our life who dont want their personal lives on social media, and I respect that so when I did eventually start dating again, I didnt share any details at their request. However, Id like to note, I am single and have been for some time. In more recent days, Ive been alerted to a website sharing information about this persons past. Information that I had no knowledge of to any degree. I went into the dating world again with an open heart and I never expected for this to occur and Im honestly devastated. She added: I hope anyone who knows or supports me would be aware that Im a very open book about my life. She then concluded: This doesnt just affect me, but my family too, so I will be taking some time offline to reflect Ash. Huish had introduced Newland to fans as simply Gee, but some fans worked out that she was Gayle Newland. During her trial former private schoolgirl Newland broke down in the dock and screamed I cant go back to jail when a jury found her guilty of the sexual assaults on a young student. She had already been given an eight-year prison sentence in 2015, but the conviction was quashed and a retrial ordered following criticism of the judges summing up in the first case. In the second trial, her legal team chose to focus more on the sexual history of her victim who slept with up to 19 men in the period after she went to police in 2013. But second time around, she was sentenced to six years for the sexual assaults and six months for fraud, to run consecutively. Newland, of Willaston, Cheshire, created a disturbingly complex online persona to achieve her own bizarre sexual satisfaction, carrying on the deceit for more than two years, the court heard. One of Ashleigh Huish's major sponsors, clothing brand In The Style, has now dropped her Ashleigh Huish has 440,000 followers on her @ashslifestories Instagram and 1.3m on TikTok Over a two year period, Newland developed an online relationship with the victim, also in her 20s, under the name Kye Fortune. She lowered her voice when they spoke on the phone and used pictures of an American man on her Facebook page to give 'Kye' a physical identity. And when the pair eventually met up, Newland told the victim to wear a blindfold because she was insecure about her appearance. The victim only discovered she was having sex with Newland, and not her boyfriend 'Kye', when she took off the mask during one of their 15 sexual encounters. Sentencing Newland, Judge David Stockdale QC said the offences demonstrated an extraordinary degree of cunning and a chilling desire to manipulate and control the lives of others. Newland was ordered to remain on the sex offender's register for life and is also subject to a lifelong sexual harm prevention order. During sentencing remarks, the judge said: "The jury by a majority of 11-1 found you guilty of counts one, two and three on the indictment, all three were sexual assaults by penetration. She did not consent to these invasive acts of penetration because her willing compliance with your abusive behaviour was obtained by a deceit. This was a deceit of such subtlety and cunning in its planning, and was a deceit from your point of view so successful in its execution, that an outsider to this case might find the facts difficult to comprehend. MailOnline contacted Huish, her agent, and In the Style. A spokesperson for Lovehoney confirmed to MailOnline that they had worked with her as a content creator on different occasions to promote various products. Somewhat ironically, given Newlands (left) crimes, mother-of-two Huish, from Harlow, Essex, has recently promoted sex toys online They added: We take our brand associations very seriously and undertake due diligence before working with any individual person or entity. Since learning of the rumours - which originate from a gossip site - we have been in touch with Ashleigh Huish and her management, who confirmed to us that Ash is not in a relationship with the person she is accused of being with, and knew nothing of the allegations. has recently promoted sex toys for online adult brand giant LoveHoney, as well as being associated with In the Style, a clothing fast fashion retailer. Agents for Ms Huish didnt respond. It's unclear where Newland is now. Thursday night saw the release of the most hotly anticipated interview of this year so far: American talk show host Tucker Carlson's questioning of Vladimir Putin. But if Carlson went into the interview expecting to go toe-to-toe with the former KGB man and hold the Russian despot's feet to the fire, then he was sorely mistaken, according to one body language expert. Instead, Judi James tells MailOnline, Putin was able to disarm Carlson from the beginning with a simple trick, allowing him to 'control the narrative'. This handed him a platform to deliver a rambling history lecture, spout off Russian nationalist propaganda and attempt to justify his brutal 2022 invasion of Ukraine. 'With Carlson sitting almost frozen in front of him, Putin used the opportunity of global cameras to deliver a history lecture that lasted nearly two hours,' says James. Thursday night saw the release of the most hotly anticipated interview of this year so far: American talk show host Tucker Carlson's questioning of Vladimir Putin (pictured) But if Carlson went into the interview expecting to have enough control over the situation to hold Vladimir Putin's feet to the fire, then he was sorely mistaken, according to one body language expert who has analysed the interview for MailOnline 'After using some body language techniques to apparently destabilise Carlson's confidence,' she says Putin was able to 'retain control of the narrative, timing and the direction of travel' of the interview, which was recorded on Tuesday in Moscow. Meanwhile, the president appeared to be 'enjoying himself', she says, and even seemed 'jovial' when talking to the former Fox News host. Putin came across as personal with Carlson, but at the same time used 'powerful' gestures of control 'in the style of a teacher controlling a class' throughout the duration of the chilling two-hour long interview. 'Putin's constantly rounded cheeks suggested he was enjoying himself,' James - a body language expert who has authored several books on the subject - says. 'There were chuckles and shrugs and flurries of gestures that were used to endorse his theme that his history as president was primarily about olive branches and then defensive protection. 'His one-shoulder shrugs and some mouth shrugs were performed to signal regret and an air of "not my fault",' James continues. 'He raised both hands to hold out at chest height with the palms facing outward and fingers splayed in a stronger gesture of wanting to hold things back and to defend.' At one point, Putin was asked why he chose to invade Ukraine. In response to this, James says, Putin 'let out a long sigh and performed a cut-off eye ritual by looking down. His first response looked jovial though: "Are we having a talk show or a serious conversation?"' This, she says, 'prompted an overkill, open-mouth laugh response from Carlson.' But there was one trick that Putin performed at the beginning of the interview which allowed him to take charge from the offset. Body language expert Judi James tells MailOnline, Putin was able to disarm Carlson from the beginning with a simple trick, allowing him to 'control the narrative' There was one trick that Putin performed at the beginning of the interview which allowed him to take charge from the offset, and that was fiddling with his watch (pictured) during the first question, which James said distracted Carlson and put him on the back foot 'Putins very first gesture or body language ritual was an act of distraction that looked like an early intention to take charge,' James says. 'While Carlson framed his first question, Putin seemed busy fiddling with his watch. 'He undid the strap before placing it very deliberately onto the table and appeared to check the time as though in control of any timing,' she explained. Putin also disarmed Carlson with 'personal acknowledgement', James says. He 'told Tucker at the start that "Your basic education is in history as far as I understand." Which suggests research into Tuckers background - which could actually be flattering or chilling, depending on the world leader that said it. As for what gestures he used to command the interview, she says the despot 'frequently used the upward pointing index finger and at one point did the gesture with both index fingers. 'This is a very powerful signal of control and authority,' she explains. 'It implies the other person should listen without speaking and also to obey if a command it being made.' She likened Putin's freedom to give a history lecture - which dated back to the dawn of Slavic history in 862 - to a teacher holding a lesson. 'Putin was able to use his command gestures in the style of a teacher controlling a class,' James says. This nullified any control Carlson had over the proceedings. 'Carlsons body language became pretty non-existent for a while as a result. His brows puckered into a frown of what at times looked like confusion and his lips pursed tightly. At some points he was barely blinking,' she says. Meanwhile, in 'teacher' mode, James says 'Putin's brows were often raised and his eyes widened for emphasis. He also added a head baton at points for emphasis.' James said Putin used gestures to command the interview. The despot 'frequently used the upward pointing index finger and at one point did the gesture with both index fingers, and also used 'counting' gestures to ensure that he was not interrupted by Carlson 'With Carlson sitting almost frozen in front of him, Putin used the opportunity of global cameras to deliver a history lecture that lasted nearly two hours,' says James The Russian strongman also used what James calls 'endorsement and proof' rituals. She highlighted one point in the interview where Putin had a staffer hand him a larger folder of documents. He said this was 'So that you [Carlson] don't think I'm inventing things.' 'When the notes were presented, Putins cheeks rounded to show enjoyment and his features seemed to twitch in a signal of good humour,' James says. He also 'used several "listing" gestures, counting his points off on the fingers of his hands.' This, she says, was to to ensure he was not interrupted. James picked out several other points of interest in the interview. After 25 minutes, she says Putin was using an eye stare and a chopping gesture to 'validate' his points, and after 28 minutes 'he began to employ a waggling index finger, implying not just authority but a telling-off'. The cold stare seen 30 minutes into the interview came after the Russian president claimed to Carlson that he and former US president Bill Clinton had discussed Russia joining NATO. For asking 'were you sincere?', Carlson 'received a cold hard state from Putin, plus the raised index finger,' James says. As he boasted having the best hypersonic missiles out of any country in the world, the body language expert said Putin displayed some 'alpha chest puffing'. And, James said, Putin's chuckle and his use of the word 'kindergarten' (40 minutes into the interview) before he spoke about Ukraine joining NATO looked like a classic diminishing technique.' As the interview continued, he only seemed to 'relax' more, 'leaning into the arm of his chair so that his left arm was stretched out in a confident splay gesture,' she says. The interview was also being keenly watched for signs of Putin's rumoured poor health. Although he seemed very much in control of the situation, observers noted how Putin was bizarrely twisting his left foot throughout the conversation. As the interview continued, Putin only seemed to 'relax' more, 'leaning into the arm of his chair so that his left arm was stretched out in a confident splay gesture,' James says But James says it was 'hard to spot any body language signs of Putins rumoured ill-health here, and the way he kept up a running narrative lasting over two hours using energetic gesticulation did seem to imply stamina. 'He did clear his throat several times and take a sip of water but in two hours that might be expected,' she adds. She did say there were some signs of Putin's 'familiar' rituals, like 'the holding of the left chair arm by winding the hand round it and the movements of the feet.' However, James added, 'his right hand was utilised throughout the interview to gesticulate with no apparent signs of weakness and although his feet did move there was no obvious sign of the kind of constant shuffling that has been spotted before.' After delivering Carlson and the American's viewers his half-hour history lecture, Putin went on to claim that Russia and Ukraine almost agreed to a peace deal in Istanbul shortly after the full-scale war began in 2022. This, he says, was turned down by Ukraine at the behest of the West, specifically Boris Johnson, then British prime minister. Despite the fact that it was Russia that was the aggressor and invaded Ukraine, he suggested the West and Kyiv think about peace. 'Wouldn't it be better to come to an agreement with Russia? To agree, understanding the situation that is today, understanding that Russia will fight for its interests to the end, and, understanding this, actually return to common sense, start respecting our country, its interests and look for some solutions?' And Russia? 'We are ready for this dialogue,' he said. Putin questioned why the United States needed to spend so much on arming Ukraine for a war he cast in some ways similar to a 'civil war' - incorrectly suggesting that Ukraine and Russia are a single nation. Putin (right) and Carlson shake hands during their interview in Moscow on Tuesday 'Does the United States need this? Why? It is thousands of kilometres away from its territory! Don't you have anything else to do?' Putin said. He also said there were mercenaries from the United States, Poland and Georgia fighting for Ukraine. Asked by Carlson about NATO fears that the situation in Ukraine could grow into a global war or nuclear conflict, Putin said that the West was trying to scare its populations with the myths of a Russian threat. Despite worries in the West, Putin pointed to the fact that Russia has not used tactical nuclear weapons. Putin said Russia would only ever attack Poland or Latvia if there was an attack on Russia from Poland. Russia, Putin said, has no interests in Poland or Latvia. Putin denied Russia had designs on the whole continent of Europe. 'You don't need to be some sort of analyst to know that this contradicts common sense - to get involved in some sort of global war. A global war would bring the whole of humanity to the brink of extinction. It is obvious,' Putin said. In the build up to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Putin and other Kremlin officials denied that Moscow had any plans to launch invasion. This was despite Russia building up a vast invasion force on the border in early 2022, before the strongman ordered his forces to attack Ukraine on February 24. Putin said the West had failed to understand that Russia, after the 1991 fall of the Soviet Union, wanted to be part of the family of so called 'civilised peoples' but that its hopes were spurned as NATO enlarged eastwards. The West, Putin said, was more afraid of China than of Russia due to its swift economic growth. In the interview with Carlson, Putin also claimed the West had failed to understand that Russia, after the 1991 fall of the Soviet Union, wanted to be part of the family of so called 'civilised peoples'. He said its hopes were spurned as NATO enlarged eastwards. Putin has regularly cited NATO expansion as a reason for his invasion of Ukraine. However, countries that have joined NATO cite the threat of Russian aggression as the reason for them joining the military alliance, with countries - most recently traditionally non-aligned Finland and Sweden - wanting the protection it brings. A Ukrainian soldier of the Khartia brigade throws a grenade from a trench during a training as the Russia-Ukraine war continues in Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine, on February 7 The Kremlin said Putin agreed to the interview with Carlson because the approach of the American host 'differed from the one-sided reporting of the Ukraine conflict'. The President was allowed to drone on unchallenged for long chunks of time, and repeated falsehoods about Ukraine's statehood. Putin has long claimed incorrectly that Ukraine is not an independent state, and that his invasion intends to reunify the two states. Ukraine says it is a distinct state with a distinct national identity, and that its history dates back before Russia. The Ukrainian people's willingness to fight the Russian invaders, and the anger felt towards Moscow, have demonstrated how strongly the country feels about this. A migrant has been electrocuted in a human fireball after climbing on top of a Eurostar train and getting struck by a charge from an overhead cable. The man unexpectedly crossed the tracks of two platforms yesterday evening shortly before 10pm at Gare du Nord station in Paris, Le Parisien reported. He then climbed onto the roof of a train leaving for England. The victim died from electrocution and the entire scene was captured in surveillance footage, according to police. The man can be seen standing up before bursting into flames, the publication reported. Firefighters rushed to the scene and were able to extinguish the flames at around 10.20pm. A man unexpectedly crossed the tracks of two platforms yesterday evening, shortly before 10 p.m. at Gare du Nord station in Paris, according to a report (Stock Image) Emergency services tried to save the man but he was declared dead within a quarter of an hour, Le Parisien reported. The police said the man was a migrant. He could not be identified due to the severity of his burns. The incident did not cause any issues for rail traffic. In 2017, another man was electrocuted to death at Gare du Nord while climbing onto the roof of a Eurostar train. The migrant died from horrific burns which meant that he could not be identified. In July 2015, the same thing happened to an Egyptian teenager at the station. The force of the electric shock threw him below and he was left in a life-threatening condition. Last month, it was revealed that Eurostar passenger numbers are up by a fifth, despite many travellers between London and Paris still snubbing the train for cheaper flights. The rail operator said it carried 18.6million passengers last year a rise of 22 per cent on the previous 12 months and a return to pre-Covid levels last seen in 2019. Eurostar tends to be a more expensive method for travelling from the UK to its direct locations of Paris, Lille, Brussels, Amsterdam and Rotterdam compared to flying. Police have launched an appeal for a teenage girl who went missing in the early hours of Friday morning. Millie Loftus, 15, was last seen in her pyjamas at around 3.20am this morning at Deysbrook Lane, West Derby in Merseyside. She was wearing a light blue-hooded top, pyjamas and slippers. Millie Loftus, 15, was last seen in her pyjamas at 3.20am this morning The 15-year-old was last seen wearing a light blue-hooded top and slippers on Friday morning near her home on Deysbrook Lane, west Derby, Merseyside The 15-year-old is described as white, 5ft 5in tall, of slim build and with shoulder length brown hair. Anyone who sees Millie is urged to call Merseyside Police on 999 or 101 or DM the service's contact centre on X. West Derby is a suburban community on the outskirts of Liverpool. It's home to the famous Alder Hey Children's Hospital, one of the largest of its kind in the UK, on Eaton Road. The area once had a Motte and Bailey castle, which was reported to be in ruins by 1327 and has now disappeared. The funeral of a key aide of the late Queen took place at Windsor today. Frank Holland, who spent nearly 40 years as Her Majesty's Travelling Yeoman, passed away earlier this month aged 88. He spent much of his career serving on the Queen's beloved Royal Yacht Britannia, which was decommissioned by Tony Blair's Labour government in 1997. Staff stood outside the Royal Mews at Windsor Castle as a hearse carrying Mr Holland's coffin made its way to St Edward's Catholic Church nearby this morning. In a sign of how much he was cherished by the Royal Family, the flag atop the castle was lowered to half mast earlier this week to honour Mr Holland. The funeral of a key aide of the late Queen took place at Windsor today. Frank Holland, who spent nearly 40 years as Her Majesty's Travelling Yeoman, passed away earlier this month aged 88 In 1969, the Queen awarded Mr Holland the Royal Victorian Medal for his service to her. After retiring, he lived in an apartment opposite Windsor's St George's Chapel, where Her Late Majesty was laid to rest in September 2022 after her death at Balmoral. Philip Reynolds, who served with Mr Holland in the local Catenian Association spoke warmly of the former royal aide in a stirring eulogy. He told how King Charles sent him a bouquet of flowers after a recent hospital visit and said the Queen dropped in to see him one before she left for Balmoral for the final time. 'I always thought it admirable how he played down his relationship with the Royal Family,' he said. 'Whenever he was asked where he lived, his usual answer was, "Oh, I live at the top of the town." 'I'm told that quite recently the King asked Frank, "how long have we known each other?", to which Frank replied: "I've known you since you were five, Your Majesty". 'And when Frank returned from an extended stay in hospital last year, he was delighted to receive a big bouquet of flowers with the message "welcome home, Charles." Royal staff stand outside the Royal Mews at Windsor before the hearse carrying Mr Holland's coffin is driven past Mr Holland spent much of his career serving on the Queen's beloved Royal Yacht Britannia (Above: The yacht arriving at Torquay during a visit by the Queen and Prince Philip in 1988). It was decommissioned by Tony Blair's Labour government in 1997 Queen Elizabeth II aboard The Royal Yacht Britannia on her Royal Jubilee Tour of Western Samoa, February 1977 The order of service for for Mr Holland's funeral at St Edward's Catholic Church in Windsor 'I also know that before she let for Balmoral for the last time, the late Queen made a point of seeing Frank to say goodbye. I think she knew she wouldn't be returning to Windsor. 'Many of us noticed the change in Frank, and how deeply her death affected him.' Mr Holland began his service on the Royal Yacht after serving in the Royal Navy as part of National Service. He met his wife Joan, who was on the staff of the Queen Mother, after joining the Royal Household. His role as Travelling Yeoman involved overseeing logistics on the Mr Reynolds added: 'He was a lovely man, a lovely gentleman and a very lovely gentle man. 'It was a pleasure and privilege to know you Frank. May you rest in peace and rise in glory.' An elementary school principal has been put on leave after she held a 'disturbing' active shooter drill, where parents say she pretended to shoot some of the children. Nina Denson carried out the drill at Washington Elementary School in San Gabriel, California on Wednesday. Children and parents are upset at what they say was a completely inappropriate string of behavior by Denson during the shooter drill. One parent who spoke to KTLA said that Denson used finger movements to pretend to shoot the children, and banged on the school's windows. Some of the children who witnessed the principal's actions were as young as four years old, parents told the outlet. Children and parents are upset at what they say was a completely inappropriate string of behavior by Nina Denson, seen here, during the shooter drill Parent Jennifer Chavez said: 'She proceeded to walk around campus and pretended to shoot people she saw using finger movements and banging on windows. 'From what I heard, she said to one of the students, 'Boom. You're dead'. [My son] was really upset. 'The one shocking, surprising thing he said as a 6-year-old was, 'I'm just really glad none of my friends died.' Ann Bustamante, another parent, said: 'Can you imagine the trauma these children potentially could go through just thinking, 'Oh my God, my friend was killed'. 'Or 'I was shot and told I died.' At the young age that these children are, it was very upsetting.' The incident happened on Wednesday at Washington Elementary in San Gabriel, California Nina Denson carried out the drill at Washington Elementary School in San Gabriel, California on Wednesday Outraged parents told how their four-year-old children were left traumatized by the drill Denson had joined the school as principal in Fall of last year, with a school district confirming that the drill was not authorized. Staff told the outlet that after the drill was over, Denson made an announcement saying that seven children had died. Jim Symonds, superintendent of the San Gabriel Unified School District, said: 'This type of drill where a scenario was run is not approved by the district nor part of our district protocol. District officials later issued an email to parents, which said: 'The conduct of the drill does not appear to have been in line with District protocols or best practices.' Officials also said that due to both staff and students being upset by the drill, counselors were on the premises to help those who may need it. Denson has been placed on leave with an investigation currently probing her behavior at the school. Chavez told KTLA that her mind was already made up, saying: 'I don't want her back here at all. She does not have the trust of the community.' An update issued on Thursday said that a veteran teacher had taken over as interim principal while the investigation continues. Americans are weighing a future led by President Kamala Harris, after President Joe Biden made series of public speaking errors, triggering growing chatter about invoking the 25th Amendment. The president alarmed Democrats and Republicans alike after a messy press conference on Thursday, in which he insisted that 'my memory is fine' even while mistakenly referring to the President of Egypt as the president of Mexico. 'I think Vice President Harris became squarely an issue in this election today. She already was getting there, and now it's even more important,' CNN commentator Scott Pressler said on the air Thursday evening. The 25th Amendment, which outlines presidential succession, gives the vice president and Cabinet power to remove the commander in chief from office via a majority vote in the event it's determined he or she is no longer fit for office. It has never been invoked in U.S. history. Vice President Kamala Harris speaks next to President Joe Biden at their campaign headquarters in Delaware Vice President Kamala Harris speaks at the Biden for President 2024 campaign headquarters on February 3, 2024 in Wilmington, Delaware. Others shared similar concerns online. 'This is exactly why the 25th Amendment exists,' wrote Rep. William Timmons (R-S.C.) on X. 'But even Democrats know the only thing worse than a Biden presidency is a Kamala Harris presidency.' 'The only thing keeping them from invoking the 25th amendment is Kamala Harris,' wrote former Republican governor of Wisconsin Scott Walker on X. As the campaign draws closer, Biden and his team have made more public endeavors to signal his support for his vice president despite keeping his distance in the first three years of his presidency, as I detail in my book 'Amateur Hour.' 'Let me just say we are really fortunate to have a real leader, a true friend, and a historic Vice President, Kamala Harris,' Biden said Tuesday at a Reception in Recognition of Black History Month. 'I not only asked her to join me; I love her,' he continued with a chuckle while squeezing her hand. 'It's a good relationship.' In the past, Biden's team has quietly expressed reservations about Harris, but know they cannot replace her on the ticket without angering a significant part of his base. Thursday morning, Biden's social media team extended a rare post on X warmly praising Harris and added, 'We couldn't do this without you, Kamala.' Harris' approval ratings continue to slide as an NBC poll conducted in January revealed that 53% of voters view her negatively. Only 28 percent of voters view her positively. Journalist Victoria Brownworth tried to reassure American voters on X, urging them to embrace Harris. 'The answer to every 'Biden's old!' statement should be 'Yes, but Kamala Harris is not.' People forget that every presidency is a team effort. Yes, the POTUS makes the final decisions, but the Constitution provided a VP and Cabinet because the job is too big for one person,' she wrote on X. 'Congrats to Kamala Harris, or I should say Madame President,' wrote Dave Rubin of the Rubin Report on X. Conservative figures expressed their alarm, as videos of Biden's disastrous press conference spread across social media platforms. 'America's greatest nightmare: Kamala Harris will become President!' wrote Fox News contributor Leo Terrell. Others joked that Harris was secretly sabotaging Biden. 'Sources tell me Kamala Harris has a huge smile on her face,' wrote former White House press secretary for former President Donald Trump Sean Spicer on X. 'Kamala Harris in the conservatory with the wrench,' wrote Daily Wire host Ben Shapiro on X. Former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy reasserted that Biden would not be the Democratic nominee by the presidential election in November. 'I said it last year & I'll say it again: Biden won't be the Democratic nominee. Now it's just starting to get more obvious,' he wrote on X. A startling 'dinosaur-like' turtle that is able to break off the 'arms of small children' has been captured at a British beauty spot. The alligator snapping turtle, which is native to the rivers and swamps in Florida, the US, was discovered beside Urswick Tarn in Cumbria on Monday. Local councillor Denise Chamberlain retrieved the carnivorous freshwater reptile, known for the series of spikes on its shell, by placing it into an old shopping basket. When she took the reptile to Wild Side Vets in Barrow, staff said the roughly 10-inch long animal - which can bite with the force of thousands of pounds - was an invasive species. Denise warned: 'It's a very dangerous invasive species. They can snap arms and small children.' A startling 'dinosaur-like' turtle that is able to break off the 'arms of small children' has been captured at a British beauty spot The alligator snapping turtle, which is native to the rivers and swamps in Florida , U.S., was discovered beside Urswick Tarn, in Cumbria (pictured), on Monday (February 5) Local councillor, Denise Chamberlain, retrieved the carnivorous freshwater reptile, known for the series of spikes on its shell, by placing it into an old shopping basket What are alligator snapping turtles and where do they come from? The alligator snapping turtle is the largest species of freshwater turtle. They are sometimes described as dinosaur-like because of their spiky shells and primitive-looking faces. Unlike all other species of snapping turtle, this one has eyes on the sides of its head. Alligator snapping turtles are found exclusively in the United States, from northern Florida to eastern Texas and as far north as Iowa. With a bite force of 1,000 pounds, their powerful jaws can snap through bone - so they should never be handled in the wild. Advertisement Explaining how the turtle may have wound up at the Lake District beauty spot, she said: 'It's an item from the pet trade being dumped because an owner was unable to look after it. 'It was starting to look quite sorry for itself. I rang various agencies who were unhelpful. Everyone thought it was a terrapin - it's not.' The carnivorous snapping turtle was handled by volunteering vets, who Denise has described as 'heroes.' She said of their efforts: 'They've got it on its feet. They were brilliant - very helpful.' The turtles are considered an invasive species, even outside of south-eastern USA, due to their impact on local ecology and the fact that they have no natural predators. They are also found in South and Central America, and have powerful jaws capable of breaking through bone. The reptiles can grow to around 80cm (31 inches) and weigh up to 90kg (14st), with the oldest ever recorded animal living to around 70 years. The turtles eat fish and mammals that live in freshwater along with vegetation and are mostly active at night when they hunt for food. The news comes as one of Britain's most notorious invasive species - the American Mink - could soon be eliminated from the UK after a successful trial. Staff at Wild Side Vets in Barrow said the roughly 10-inch long animal - which can bite with the force of thousands of pounds - was an invasive species Denise warned: 'It's a very dangerous invasive species. They can snap arms and small children' American Mink is a relentless killer which has decimated wildlife wherever it goes - slaughtering sand martins, kingfishers, lapwings, frogs and toads. But it has been water voles - the lovable inspiration for Ratty in Wind in the Willows - who have suffered particularly badly at its teeth and claws. Water vole numbers have plunged by 96 per cent since 1950 -when the mink first began to flourish in the wild. American Mink is now present in most areas of the UK and Ireland. Prince Harry has ended his four-year legal battle against the publisher of the Mirror by accepting a 'substantial' sum of money. The High Court was told Mirror Group Newspapers had also agreed to pay all of the Duke of Sussex's costs in last year's hacking trial. Last year, the duke became the first royal in over a hundred years to step into the witness box at the High Court. He was the most high-profile of four claimants accusing Mirror Group Newspapers of hacking them for news stories. After the seven-week trial last summer, Harry was awarded 140,600 by the judge. In his landmark ruling in December, Mr Justice Fancourt concluded that 15 out of 33 articles about Harry had come from hacking. The Duke of Sussex arrives at the High Court in London on June 7 last year to give evidence But he also threw out the remaining 17 articles in the duke's claims, branding one of them 'hopeless'. And those 33 were only a 'sample' from a total of 148 articles Harry had complained about. A second trial had been mooted to consider the remaining 115 articles that he claimed were from hacking. But today it was announced there had been an out-of-court settlement. Harry's barrister David Sherborne told Mr Justice Fancourt: 'MGN has accepted the duke's offer. MGN will pay a substantial additional sum by way of damages, and secondly all of the costs of his claim'. The 'additional sum' was not specified, but will be added to the 140,600. The legal costs, which the newspaper group will have to pay towards Harry's lawyers, are likely to be substantially higher. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, pictured outside Canada House in London in January 2020 The court heard that, in relation to Harry's three fellow claimants, the newspaper should pay them 2.1million towards their costs. Harry's costs were not revealed in court. Harry's case at trial was heard alongside similar claims brought by actor Michael Turner, who is known professionally as Michael Le Vell and is most famous for playing Kevin Webster in Coronation Street, actress Nikki Sanderson, and Fiona Wightman, the ex-wife of comedian Paul Whitehouse. The claims brought by Ms Sanderson and Ms Wightman were dismissed because they were made too late, despite the judge finding that some of their complaints were proved. An MGN spokesperson said: 'We are pleased to have reached this agreement, which gives our business further clarity to move forward from events that took place many years ago and for which we have apologised.' A retired engineer was today told he would die in jail for murdering his wife just days after he confessed to an affair and secret lovechild during their 53-year marriage. Church-goer David Clarke, 80, battered unsuspecting wife Helen, 77, with a hammer then set her on fire days after telling her 'in an act of spite' how he had betrayed her with a woman she had regarded as a friend, a court heard today. Mrs Clarke, described as a 'doting granny', was 'completely devastated' by the bombshell news, which came after the couple had travelled to Australia to meet his former lover and her family. When they returned from the trip to their beauty spot cottage on the Gower Peninsula, less than a mile from where Catherine Zeta Jones and Michael Douglas live when they are in Wales. the pair argued and Mrs Clarke struck her husband with a picture frame and cup of tea, Swansea Crown Court was told. Four days later the father-of-four a former international pistol-shooting champion - texted family members telling them: 'I love you.' He then set off with his wife for an early morning drive, saying they were going 'to the beach'. Church-goer David Clarke (left), 80, battered unsuspecting wife Helen (right), 77, with a hammer then set her on fire days after David Clarke, 80 who killed his wife Helen, has been sentenced to life imprisonment But during the journey Clarke stopped the car and struck his wife who used a wheelchair - several times in the head with a lump hammer, prosecutor Michael Jones KC told today's hearing. The retired businessman then threw paraffin on her body and set her on fire inside the couple's Honda Civic. A brave passer-by tried to intervene but Clarke drove off down the road before crashing into a hedge as flames burst out from the car. Mrs Clarke was able to tell firefighters her husband was to blame for the attack, on September 22 last year. 'He hit me twice with a sledge hammer, covered me in paraffin and set me on fire,' she said. She was taken to hospital where she tragically died from her injuries two days later. Questioned in hospital about a bruise on his head, the court heard Clarke told a paramedic: 'My wife is not the forgiving kind. 'We have been married 53 years, I had an affair 50 years ago she only found out a few days ago.' Mrs Clarke (pictured), described as a 'doting granny', was 'completely devastated' by the bombshell news that her husband had cheated on her, which came after the couple had travelled to Australia to meet his former lover and her family Speaking later of the attack on phone from prison, Clarke told his son he 'hit her with the hammer to make her go unconscious but she just wouldn't go out.' Mrs Clarke had extensive burns across her body and nine head wounds from the hammer blows with medics telling her family her injuries were 'unsurvivable'. Clarke had an affair with a friend of Mrs Clarke - a woman named only as 'L' - when the couple lived in Zambia, today's hearing was told. He later confided about the affair and his secret daughter to his son, David Clarke Junior, while living in Zimbabwe in 2003, but told him not to tell his mother. Mr Jones said: 'He asked David Clarke Jnr to go for a drive with him, and during the drive the defendant started to cry and informed his son he had an affair with a woman in Zambia - a family friend referred to as 'L' - and he believed he had a daughter as a result of that affair.' The son 'believed there was no good that could come from his mother knowing', Mr Jones said, although he did tell his own wife. During 2023, Clarke would message 'L' who by then had emigrated to Australia - despite her telling him to stop, the court heard. He also texted pictures of 'L' to family members, describing her as his 'soulmate' - and booked flights for him and his wife to travel Down Under Clarke (pictured) had an affair with a friend of Mrs Clarke - a woman named only as 'L' - when the couple lived in Zambia, today's hearing was told One of their stops during the trip was 'planned' by Clarke as he knew 'L' and her daughter lived in the area after becoming 'fixated in his belief that he now had other grandchildren,' Mr Jones said. 'It appears they did meet up with 'L' and her husband with Helen Clarke completely oblivious to the defendant's real reason of meeting up.' Mr Jones said the couple were due to fly home on September 18 last year and Mr Clarke unsuccessfully begged 'L' and her daughter to see them off at the airport. That day messages exchanged on the Clarke family WhatsApp made it clear that he had told his wife about the historic affair, the prosecutor said. She was 'evidently and understandably devastated and angry', he added. 'She accused the defendant of engineering the trip to see 'L'.' The court heard that it was four days later that Clarke carried out the fatal attack on his wife. In a witness statement, his son, David Junior, said his parents had always argued, with his father sometimes being violent and bullying towards his mother - but thought they had 'mellowed with age'. John Hipkin, KC, defending said Clarke had no previous convictions and may have been suffering from an 'adjustment disorder' at the time. Judge Paul Thomas KC told Clarke, of Langland, Swansea: 'You have been an aggressive, occasionally violent husband for many years under a veneer of apparent respectability both in Africa and over latterly in this area. Police, firefighters and paramedics at the scene of the burning Honda Jazz in Swansea where the couple were pulled from the car 'Despite your professed Christianity your behaviour in private has never matched your public image. 'Your infidelity with a woman in Africa had been concealed for around half a century until in the last year you tried to rekindle an old relationship. 'You went to the length of arranging a holiday to Australia with a hidden agenda of meeting up with a lady with whom you had been previously involved. 'When she wanted nothing to do with you, in an act of spite you told your wife about the affair at the airport on the way home, leading of course to arguments between you thereafter.' Clarke, who pleaded guilty to murder at a hearing in December last year, was jailed for life with a minimum of 21 years and eight months and told he would die in prison. 'I cannot pass a sentence likely in due course you will be released,' the judge said. 'To use a phrase, I cannot here pass a sentence which allow for a significant light at the end of the tunnel.' Afterwards Rebecca Carter of the CPS said: 'Helen Clarke was murdered by her husband, of 53 years, in terrible circumstances. 'This has been a tragic case. Our thoughts and sympathies go to Helen's family at this difficult time.' After the hearing the devastated family spoke of their 'unimaginable pain' since Mrs Clarke was 'brutally taken from us' in what they described as a 'private tragedy'. 'Our mother was a loving, kind and courageous woman who greatly cherished her family, her friends, and the world at large,' they said. 'She was strongly committed to her faith, had a laugh which would set a room alight, and a great appreciation for life and the beauty of the world. 'Her passing in such a sudden and tragic manner has been devastating; and our grief is immeasurable. 'The situation we find ourselves in highlights the complexity and fragility of the human mind. 'We have endured unimaginable pain since she was brutally taken from us - and our children miss their Granny, who was extremely proud of them, so very much. 'We continue to do our utmost to support and protect them as we navigate these very difficult circumstances.' They expressed their thanks to members of the public and emergency services who tried to save her from the burning car. Detective Chief Inspector Paul Raikes, of South Wales Police, said: 'This has been a challenging investigation due to its nature and circumstances. 'To this end, I would like to place on record our condolences to the family of Helen Clarke, and thank them for their cooperation and understanding during extremely difficult times for them.' A Florida man brazenly tried to kidnap a four-year-old in broad daylight in front of his parents at a CVS in Miami. Surveillance footage from the pharmacy shows the moment the creep tried to brazenly snatch the little boy as he exited with his parents. The suspected kidnapper, Nicolas Sternaman, was entering the CVS at 11:55 am when he video caught him making his bold abduction attempt. As the child walked through the exit, closely following his mother, Sternaman allegedly bent over and made a grab for the little boy - prompting his father to launch at the attacker. The father bravely grabbed Sternaman, 26, and wrestled him away from the boy as his mother pulled her child to safety. A Florida man brazenly tried to kidnap a four-year-old in broad daylight in front of his parents at a CVS in Miami Surveillance footage from the pharmacy shows the moment the creep tried to brazenly snatch the little boy as he exited with his parents The suspected kidnapper, Nicolas Sternaman, was entering the CVS on Collins Avenue at 11:55 am when he made his bold abduction attempt A full-on brawl broke out between the alleged kidnapper and the father, who yanked the man's coat off at one point and even slammed him into the store's glass. The fight ended with Sternaman strolling out of the CVS as the boy's mother clutched her shaken-up son. Miami Beach Police quickly arrested Sternaman three blocks from the CVS, according to Local10. He faces charges of kidnapping and battery, and refused to explain to police why he had allegedly tried to snatch the child. As the child walked through the exit, closely following his mother, Sternaman allegedly bent over and made a grab for the little boy - prompting his father to launch at the attacker Sternaman, 26, faces charges of kidnapping and battery, and refused to explain to police why he had allegedly tried to snatch the child The father bravely grabbed Sternaman, 26, and wrestled him away from the boy as his mother pulled her child to safety Sternaman has been arrested before for petty theft in Miami Beach back in July, an incident for which he is still awaiting trial. 'It's very terrifying that it happens actually at day, in a store where people are around,' the boy's mother Vanessa Selk told WPLG as she clutched her traumatized child. 'Be aware of your child every second because in one second they can be taken away,' the boy's father said. Christians gathered outside Canterbury Cathedral singing hymns in protest against a 'boozy' silent disco being held there to raise funds for the church. Protesters were not put off by the rain as they called for an end to 'an alcohol-fuelled rave to the music of Eminem in God's house'. They sang hymns as up to 750 people geared up to spend the night dancing to classic 1990s tracks including Vengaboys and All Saints at the sold-out event. Church leaders say they need to reach out to younger people and find ways of raising the 'large sums' the Cathedral requires to survive - but horrified protesters said the rave was the 'opposite of holy'. One protestor Tom Alberto said the cathedral is the 'very birthplace' of Christianity. 'Saint Augustine landed here almost 1,500 years ago, it's going to see a rave inside there tonight,' he continued. 'Alcohol is going to be served and music - it's the very opposite of holy. 'It's profane it is going to be played and, frankly, I was quite horrified to see the Church of England, the dean of the cathedral and the Archbishop were giving the okay on this.' Church leaders say they need to reach out to younger people and find ways of raising the 'large sums' the Cathedral requires to survive The disco will see headphone-wearing party-goers dancing to tracks from the likes of the Vengaboys and All Saints. Church leaders say they need to reach out to younger people and find ways of raising the 'large sums' the Cathedral requires to survive. Those opposed to the event, led by Dr Cajetan Skowronski, have raised their concerns during a meeting with the Dean of Canterbury, The Very Reverend Dr David Monteith. The disco is going ahead with the landmark's historic Nave transformed into a dancefloor. About 15 protestors could be seen under umbrellas singing hymns. Speaking earlier this week, Dr Skowronski said: 'While respectful of our right to protest, the Dean was dismissive of our petition, stating that we were an extreme minority - for not wanting an alcohol-fuelled rave to the music of Eminem in God's house. Christian protestors outside Canterbury Cathedral to call for an end to a silent disco being held there to raise funds The disco is going ahead with the landmark's historic Nave transformed into a dancefloor (stock image of a silent disco) 'Dr Monteith was convinced - with no evidence - that the majority of Christians would support this disco, and our petition and reasoned arguments could not change his mind.' Dr Skowronski argues no other religion would consider using a sacred building in this way. 'Discos and parties and things are absolutely great but only in their proper place - it's all well and good in a nightclub but Canterbury Cathedral was not built for this,' he said. 'It's an unprecedented way to use this sacred place. It looks like more Cathedrals will be used this way but Canterbury is the most important of them all. 'It's not going to make younger people take the Church more seriously, it's not going to make people think Christians take their faith seriously - no other religions would do this and it's not effective evangelism.' The Dean of Canterbury, The Very Reverend Dr David Monteith, insists the silent disco will be 'appropriate and respectful'. The disco will see headphone-wearing party-goers dancing to tracks from the likes of the Vengaboys and All Saints (The Vengaboys pictured with Denise Van Outen in 1999) Protesters were not put off by the rain as they called for an end to 'an alcohol-fuelled rave to the music of Eminem in God's house' (pictured is a stock image of Eminem) 'Cathedrals have always been part of community life in a way much wider than their prime focus as centres of Christian worship and mission,' he said. 'Whilst dancing of all different kinds has happened in the Cathedral over the centuries - and The Bible memorably celebrates the gift of dancing with King David dancing before the Lord (2 Samuel 6) - there are many different views on the secular and the sacred. 'Our 90s-themed silent disco will be appropriate to and respectful of the Cathedral - it is categorically not a 'rave in the nave' - but I appreciate that some will never agree that dancing and pop music have a place within cathedrals.' Serving as the main body of the building, the Nave is one of the key congregation points for religious services and extends from the entrance to the transepts/chancel. The Martyrdom site of Becket's murder is in the north-west transept. It is expected that 750 people will attend. Tickets were 25 - with VIP options up for grabs at 31 - but are now sold out according to the Cathedral. Rep. Dean Phillips and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. slammed President Joe Biden after his 'heartbreaking' address to the nation, questioning his competency to serve the country and calling on a 'new generation' of candidates to take the reins. The two reacted to Biden's live address on Thursday, which followed a Department of Justice report questioning his memory on NewsNations CUOMO. Kennedy, 70, emphasized the need to legitimately question Biden's competency, especially in making nuanced and complex decisions. Phillips echoed his sentiment, claiming it's no longer character assassination to raise concerns about competency, and highlighted the emergence of next-generation candidates with fresh visions. 'There's so many decisions that require nuance that require complex levels of thinking and that those kind of issues are coming at you many times a day,' Kennedy said. 'The American people have a right to understand whether their president is capable of making their those decisions.' RFK Jr. emphasized the need to legitimately question Biden's competency, especially in making nuanced and complex decisions Rep. Dean Phillips stated that it's no longer character assassination to raise concerns about competency, and highlighted the emergence of next-generation candidates The two reacted to Biden's live address and Department of Justice report questioning his memory on NewsNations CUOMO Thursday 'I think we've reached a time where it's no longer character assassination to ask legitimate questions about his competency,' Phillips said to Chris Cuomo on NewsNation. 'We've got next generation candidates just waiting waiting to apply a new vision for our country for our world and it's time for change. It was heartbreaking, to see him today at that lecture, talking about his son,' he added. 'It was heartbreaking to see our president - a man who should be strong and vigorous and resolute be reduced to that tonight because of a report that calls him incapable, losing memory, and frankly committing a crime.' Phillips, President Joe Biden's sole Democratic primary challenger, also said Thursday's Department of Justice report 'all but handed' the 2024 election to former President Donald Trump. The 388-page eye-popping report from Special Counsel Robert Hur confirmed that Biden would not be charged for keeping classified documents in his garage. But it also mentioned that even if they had pressed charges, a jury would probably conclude Biden had 'diminished faculties' and was a 'well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory.' Phillips, a Minnesota Democrat , launched his presidential campaign in October after spending months sounding the alarm that Biden was too old to win a second term. 'The report simply affirms what most Americans already know, that the president cannot continue to serve as our Commander-in-Chief beyond his term ending January 20, 2025,' Phillips said in a statement to DailyMail.com Thursday. President Joe Biden delivered an impromptu statement about Hur's report Thursday night at the White House, telling reporters, 'my memory has not gotten worse,' and then saying the Egyptian president was from 'Mexico' Rep. Dean Phillips, President Joe Biden's sole Democratic primary challenger, said Thursday's Department of Justice report 'all but handed' the 2024 election to former President Donald Trump President Biden angrily addressed the nation on Thursday night telling Americans 'I know what the hell I am doing!' and insisting that 'my memory is fine.' However, moments later he committed another startling gaffe, referring to the Egyptian leader as the President of Mexico. Biden's furious tirade from the White House came after a report into his handling of classified documents was released by the Justice Department. Biden also called Israel's military actions in Gaza 'over the top' in his harshest criticism since the bombings and invasion began. The US president rebuked his ally, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, at the press conference at the White House on Thursday. Biden said he was trying to broker a longer ceasefire to get humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza, and push for the release of Hamas hostages. A senior Labour shadow minister has admitted the party needs to win back the trust of Muslim voters following its fierce internal row over the Gaza conflict. Shabana Mahmood, the shadow justice secretary, said 'there has been a sense of a loss of trust... that needs to be rebuilt' between the party and British Muslims. Labour has been riven with deep tensions following the outbreak of fresh violence in the Middle East after the Hamas terror attacks on Israel on October 7. Party leader Sir Keir Starmer has faced huge pressure to call for an immediate ceasefire, while he also caused fury by appearing to back Israel's right to besiege Gaza. In November, Sir Keir suffered a huge Labour revolt in the House of Commons after 56 of his MPs defied him and backed calls for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Speaking to a BBC podcast, Ms Mahmood admitted she 'wanted a ceasefire then, I want a ceasefire now' but defended Labour's stance throughout the conflict. Shabana Mahmood, the shadow justice secretary, said 'there has been a sense of a loss of trust... that needs to be rebuilt' between Labour and British Muslims Sir Keir Starmer has seen Labour riven with deep tensions following the outbreak of fresh violence in the Middle East after the Hamas terror attacks on Israel on October 7 Sir Keir initially ignored demands for him to call for an immediate ceasefire, as he supported Israel's right to defend itself, although he has now shifted to backing a 'sustainable ceasefire'. Asked if Labour had paid a price for its earlier position on the Gaza crisis, Ms Mahmood told Political Thinking with Nick Robinson: 'I there has been a sense of a loss of trust, and I think that that needs to be rebuilt. 'That is something we are all very cognisant of and want to make sure we put that right. 'We aspire to be a party that can get votes from every part of our country and every community in our country. 'That has always been the Labour way and that is still the Labour way.' During an LBC radio interview at Labour's conference in Liverpool just days after the Hamas attacks, Sir Keir sparked anger by appearing to support Israel cutting off supplies of electricity, food, fuel and water to Gaza. Ms Mahmood, MP for Birmingham Ladywood, admitted the row caused by Sir Keir's comments - which he later sought to clarify - was 'not a good moment' for her party. 'There's no getting away from the fact it is true, objectively, and on every other measure that that was not a good moment,' she said. 'And Keir, of course, then did go on to clarify his comments. I think miscommunciations in politics do happen, it's important to offer that clarification. 'It was necessary because it was widely seen by millions of people, it had caused a huge amount of anguish and he put the record straight.' The bitter row over Sir Keir's comments on Israel's siege of Gaza was followed up weeks later by the Commons revolt by Labour MPs against his position on a ceasefire. Asked if she personally had wanted to join Labour rebels in voting in favour of calls for a ceasfire, Ms Mahmood replied: 'I wanted a ceasefire then, I want a ceasefire now. 'I think it's impossible to look at footage of dead children being pulled from the rubble... and not want this nightmare to stop, not want the fighting to stop.' She added: 'You can call it a ceasefire or a truce. You can use the words "permanent", or "sustainable", or "immediate" - in the end what you are describing is a desire to see the fighting stop. 'That is a desire I and millions of people share and believe in. The question is not so much, do you just call for it, but how you actually deliver one? 'I wish it were possible, simply by calling for it, that you could immediately deliver one.' Palestinians inspect damaged vehicles at the site of an Israeli strike in Rafah, southern Gaza Ms Mahmood added it was not 'illegitimate' to call for a ceasefire, but argued those in the Government or shadow cabinet had to grapple with 'how you deliver a ceasefire and that is a delicate, difficult, diplomatic process'. The shadow cabinet minister also spoke of her position as one of Labour's most senior Muslim MPs. 'I believe so strongly in the need for communities to stand together,' she said. 'As somebody of a faith minority and a faith minority that has a sense of personal connection to the events that are unfolding in Gaza, it's really important to me to be able to advocate for what people are feeling. 'Why it means so much to them, why the absolute desperation we all feel to see an end to the fighting is felt so strongly. But also to try and hold communities at home together as well. 'Because just at British Muslims are feeling a very strong sense of pain at what's unfolding, so too are British Jews. We are all British citizens together. 'I think that if we lose our sense of humanity for what is being suffered by all of the peoples in that region, I think we lose something very, very important and very precious. 'And once gone, I think it's very difficult to get back.' Asked today about Ms Mahmood's claim that Labour has seen a 'loss of trust' from Muslim voters over its stance on the war in Gaza, Sir Keir told broadcasters: 'I think everyone can see that the conflict in the Middle East has caused great concern across the country. 'And in the end I think we all want to see the same thing. The terrible terrorist attack on October 7 - 27,000 people now have been killed in Gaza - that's intolerable, many of them children. 'So we have to get to a ceasefire, a sustainable ceasefire, and that means stopping the fighting, creating the space for humanitarian aid to get in, which is desperately, desperately needed, getting the hostages out and creating the first step of the process, the only way this will be resolved, which is a two-state solution. The first female mayor of a tiny Illinois village has posted a video of herself with President Joe Biden at the White House after coming under fire for her high salary and questionable spending. Tiffany Henyard was elected mayor of Dolton, a village of 20,000 on the southern outskirts of Chicago, in 2021, and makes nearly $300,000 a year in combined salary as mayor and township supervisor. 'Stay Positive Stay focused Stay the course,' wrote Henyard, the self-described 'Super Mayor', in an Instagram post on Thursday, alongside video from the White House event last month. Henyard posed with her fellow Democrat Biden, whose presidential salary is $400,000, in the East Room on January 19, during the US Conference of Mayors' annual winter meeting. It follows media reports detailing Henyard's lavish spending of public funds on first-class trips around the country, billboards that critics call thinly veiled campaign ads, and professional hair and makeup stylists before public appearances and photo shoots. Dalton Mayor Tiffany Henyard posted a video of herself with President Joe Biden at the White House after coming under fire for her high salary and questionable spending Tiffany Henyard was elected leader of Dolton, a village of 20,000, in 2021, but has faced criticism from village trustees who accuse her of misusing public funds The most controversial aspect of Henyard's tenure has been an ordinance setting her salary as township supervisor at $224,000, on top of her mayor's paycheck of $46,000. If Henyard is re-elected in 2025, she will retain the salary but if anyone else takes the supervisor post, the pay falls 90 percent to $25,000, a measure critics say is designed to discourage anyone from running against her. Henyard faced a recall attempt after village trustees accused her of spending public funds without board approval, violating personnel policies, using police as personal security, and ignoring transparency laws for public records. The recall vote in June 2022 received majority support from voters, but the results were invalidated in court. At a town meeting on Monday, Henyard fired back at critics, pointing to her status as the town's first female mayor. 'You all should be ashamed of yourselves because you all are black. You all are black! And you all sitting up here beating and attacking a black woman that's in power,' she said. 'You all should be ashamed of yourselves. Henyard also tried to lay down the law against village trustees who say she's misusing funds. 'You all forget I'm the leader. They want to hear from the mayor. You all ain't learned that yet,' she said. 'The mayor, not the trustees that don't do nothing. They only run their mouth. You all don't do no work, no work!' Since the initial reporting on Henyard's spending, it's been revealed she and other officials spent more than $67,000 on trips to Portland, Austin, Atlanta and New York City on the village's dime, according to WGN. Many of the flights were first-class, while Henyard's team spent $13,000 in public money staying in New York. Henyard attended this U.S. Conference of Mayors' annual winter meeting, in the East Room at the White House on January 19 Dolton is a village in Illinois of just around 20,000 people Things have gotten worse for Henyard in the past few weeks, as budget cuts were blamed for water main breaks and a mass shooting took place in the village last week. 'It's unfortunate that politics are being played. What's happened is a million dollars out of my budget have been cut because of politics,' Dolton Police Chief Lewis Lacey said. Henyard said she doesn't understand the criticism, as she believes she's working to better everyone's lives. 'Everything we do is for the people. But we're under attack. We get scrutinized by the media,' she said. 'For what? Loving on the people? Showing that they matter to us? We going through the fires for you all.' The village board says the problem is a matter of trust, with citizens and trustees being unable to vet her spending. 'At the end of the day, vendors aren't being paid. The board approved it, but vendors aren't being paid,' Dolton trustee Jason House said. Fellow trustee Brittney Norwood added: 'How about you be a good leader and bring [proposals] to the forefront so not just us, but residents and everyone else in America know how the money is being spent.' DailyMail.com has reached out to Henyard for comment. Henyard is always snapped in tasteful, expensive looking outfits. She has posted photos of herself getting out of chauffeur driven SUVS, with one Instagram post even appearing to show her with a dog laden with jewelry. Henyard, who often refers to herself as 'God's favorite', has now sparked further outrage by proposing a new law that would cap the next mayor's salary at $25,000, unless she remains in the role, Fox 32 reports. Many believe the proposal, which has been branded 'illegal' is an attempt to dissuade anyone from running against her in the 2025 race. Now trustees in her town have filed a lawsuit against her alleging forgery and claiming she withheld financial records. Henyard has been slammed for 'living like a royal' with extravagant spending. She earns $224,000-a-year but is seeking to lower her successor's salary to $25,000 in what critics claim is a bit to dissuade anyone from running against her Henyard is pictured stepping out of a chauffeured SUV in one of her stylish outfits. She's been blasted for spending taxpayer cash on security, as well as professional hair and makeup artists In one photo posted to Instagram, Henyard even appeared to pose with a dog laden with jewelry The scandal is just the latest to hit the beleaguered mayor, after she was slammed for hiring her former campaign worker as the town's code enforcement officer despite the fact he is a convicted child rapist. She also raised eyebrows after spending hundreds of thousands of tax dollars of security details, including one for an event with senior citizens and another occasion where she pulled cops off the street to perform a protection outfit. Questions have emerged over how she funds her apparently lavish lifestyle, especially since she has repeatedly swerved questions and dismissed criticism by branding trustees for the township as 'haters' in TikTok videos. Dolton trustees say she has not explained the need for her eye-watering security budget. They also claim she issued checks without proper authorization. 'I see no justification whatsoever. And more than that it's really a detriment to the citizens of Dolton,' trustee Jason House told Fox 32. 'If we were to take the same money and put it on officers patrolling the streets, then the residents will see a much better presence and public safety will be better.' Henyard, a Democrat, was sworn in as mayor in May, becoming the first woman and the youngest person to occupy that post in Dolton's 128-year history. Henyard uses professional stylists as well and hair and makeup teams prior to events but is not forthcoming about how they are funded Henyard, the first female and youngest mayor of Dolton, Illinois, is under fire for hiring her former campaign worker Lavelle Redmond (pictured together, left) as a code enforcement officer. The 46-year-old is a registered child sex offender After a recall bid failed, Henyard posted this defiant image on Instagram declaring she 'forever will be Dolton's mayor' A year after her election, Dolton residents triggered a recall process largely due to her hiring of convicted sex offender Lavelle Redmond into a role that would require him to enter people's homes. According to reporting at the time, the then-16-year-old Redmond and three others kidnapped and sexually assaulted two girls, ages 13 and 14. At age 17, Redmond was sentenced to 50 years in prison but was paroled in 2016 and required to register as a sex offender. At the time Henyard defended the move, stating that convicts who have served time deserve a second chance. However, the recall failed on a technicality and Henyard remained in post, turning up to the next board meeting blasting a disco song and dancing on the podium. Following the verdict, she also posted a defiant picture on Instagram proclaiming herself the 'People's Mayor' with the caption, 'I am and forever will be Dolton's Mayor.' The post is one of hundreds on the politicians profile that feature glamorous headshots of her promoting various town events and holidays. She also features heavily on professional stylist Brandon K Momom's account, sporting various ensembles handpicked for her public appearances. Visitors to Henyard's website are greeted by a huge selfie and encouraged to offer donations. Her antics have earned comparisons to the show Parks and Recreation, a comedy which pokes fun at local government employees. Twelve terrible months have passed since Esther Ghey arrived home to find two policemen at her door; a year since that heart-stopping moment when she was told her 16-year-old daughter Brianna had been murdered, stabbed to death in an almost inexplicably brutal fashion. Through the haze of grief she has existed in since that day the first anniversary falls on Sunday Esther has become convinced that Brianna is sending signs to comfort her. Pink signs, to be precise. Every time something significant has happened, weve had pink skies, Esther tells me, in this, her first in-depth interview. When the verdict came in there were unusual rainbow clouds and then on the day of the sentencing, there were lovely pink skies. Weve got lots of cherry blossom in our local area and, after Brianna passed away, they were blooming massively, like Ive never seen them before, so big and bright and pink. Pink was Briannas favourite colour. It gives me comfort to know shes ok, and shes sending me these signs to tell me that shes happy and shes all right. Of all the flowers to associate with her pretty, young, vulnerable daughter, theres something tragically fitting about a cherry blossom; so beautiful, so fragile, so fleeting. Those cherry trees are beginning to bloom again now in Briannas home town of Warrington, where crowds will gather to mark the first anniversary of her murder. The first anniversary of the brutal murder of Esther Ghey's daughter falls this Sunday and she has become convinced that her younger daughter is sending signs to comfort her Brianna was 'massively affected' by the pandemic and lockdown, says Esther, and when lockdown ended she found it difficult to return to lessons Esther, 37, her partner, Wes Powell, 30, and Briannas older sister, Alisha, 19, will be at the towns Golden Square shopping centre at 3pm for a vigil. Friends and pupils from her school will light candles and sing songs and everyone will be dressed in at least a splash of pink. Esther hopes she will be strong enough to give a short speech, a few words she will compose herself. The aim, she says, is for Brianna to see what we are doing and to know how much she is loved. Sunday will also be a time for quiet reflection although there will be no graveside visit. For as Esther tells me, she keeps Briannas ashes in a pink casket in her bedroom, where she regularly goes to talk to her younger daughter. Brianna doesnt have a grave, Esther says through tears, before pausing to collect herself. Sorry, I dont think Ive told anyone this before Because Brianna just loved being in her bedroom, Ive got her ashes in a pink casket in her room, so shes always with us. I spoke to one of Briannas very close friends, who said, Brianna wouldnt want to be in the dirt. I know she wouldnt want to be on her own. She wouldnt want to be buried. She would want to be at home with her family. So I made her room exactly how she would want it. Shes got freshly painted pink walls and a pink fluffy rug. She always wanted a pink fluffy rug and I wouldnt let her have one because she always spilt drinks on the floor. Esther laughs, her face lightening briefly as she remembers the liveliness of life with the teenager: Her room was an absolute mess, that was another point of argument. Today, weve got a picture wall with all her photos on it to remind me of the happy times. I go in and sit with her. Its such a calming room, it feels nice to be in there with her. Brianna, who was transgender, was just 16 when she was lured to a park in Culcheth, an upmarket village just outside Warrington, and brutally stabbed to death on February 11 last year. Her 16-year-old killers, Scarlett Jenkinson whom Brianna thought was her friend and accomplice Eddie Ratcliffe, were sentenced to 22 years and 20 years, respectively, earlier this month. Jenkinson, who binged on horror films and was obsessed by serial killers, planned Briannas murder with Ratcliffe in a series of shocking messages over Snapchat and WhatsApp. Shed been inspired by disturbing real-life murder and torture rooms she had found on the dark web, after downloading a special internet browser onto her phone. Judge Mrs Justice Yip told the warped pair that they had been driven by sadism and although they didnt target Brianna because she was transgender concluded transphobia was a motivating factor. Ratcliffe, who had never met Brianna before he killed her, had repeatedly referred to her as it. Esther tells me she never met Jenkinson, but Brianna had spoken happily about her at home. The pair would hang out after school, at McDonalds and around the shops. It was a new friendship: Jenkinson, who lived around four miles away from Brianna, had joined her school, Birchwood Community High School in Warrington, just ten weeks before she murdered her. Making a new friend had been a big deal for Brianna. For while she was confident and gregarious online like most teenagers, Brianna spent hours every day on her mobile phone in real life, she was socially anxious. Little wonder Esther today describes her daughter as a contradiction. Brianna may have made hundreds of videos on TikTok, amassing 31,000 followers and becoming a role model for other trans teenagers, but leaving the house was often too much for her. Understandably, then, when on the afternoon of Saturday February 11 last year, Brianna messaged her mum to say she had decided to go to Culcheth Linear Park and meet her new friend, Esther was really happy not least because Brianna had plucked up the courage to get the bus on her own. I was pleased she was going out, the weather was ok that day, it wasnt raining, and she was going to get some fresh air, says Esther. I thought it was a turning point, that she would be okay and be able to go to college. It alleviated my worries. Esther with her partner Wes, who she will marry in June. The wedding will be a low-key affair, with 60 guests and a woodland ceremony Esther pictured with Brianna, who was just 16 when she was murdered. Her ashes are kept in a pink casket in her bedroom Brianna was still out when Esther and Alisha, who had been ice-skating and visiting relatives, returned home around 2pm. She still hadnt returned by the time Esther and Wes, a document controller, decided to take their two dogs, Patch and Herc, for a walk around two hours later. Although Briannas phone was switched off when Esther tried to call, she wasnt worried, assuming that her battery had run out. Even when the couple spotted several police cars on the nearby business park, they werent concerned. I never thought for one second it would be Brianna, says Esther. But when we got back home there were also police in our street. We turned the corner and I could see our front door was open and there were two policemen standing inside. Alisha was there, standing on the stairs, looking panicked. They asked me to sit down, but I had all this stuff spinning through my mind. I said, No, I dont want to sit down, just tell me now. Thats when they said theyd found a body and my stomach sank. I dont think I cried straight away. We went through to sit down at the dining table. I was just in complete shock. Then at one point one of the policemen said, You will have to identify the body, and I just completely broke down. I said, I dont want to because it will make it real. Esther weeps at the memory. Initially, she says she feared Brianna had taken her own life or perhaps met a stranger shed been talking to online whod then attacked her. In the end, she says, the reality was worse. I had all these horrific thoughts going through my mind, but the most horrific was the one that was true, she says. Sorry, I dont like to say it, she pauses. My child was dead. And then the worst possible outcome that somebody she trusted had done that. The tears come again when she describes going to see Briannas body at the mortuary with Wes, her supportive partner of almost ten years. They took Briannas favourite pink blanket, while Alisha gave them a rose quartz crystal that Brianna had loved and was always trying to pinch from her sisters bedroom. It was like I was visiting her in hospital, Esther says. When I left, I felt I should have taken her home. The first few days after Briannas death passed in a blur. Esther didnt eat for a week, and describes the grief as physical not only were her eyes swollen from constant crying but other parts of her body, including one of her arms, also inexplicably became swollen; a manifestation, she believes, of her emotional pain. In those early days, a disbelieving Esther found herself cupping her ear to her bedroom wall to try and hear Brianna laughing and giggling next door but instead there was only silence. Brianna 'was really witty', Esther says. 'She had such a sharp tongue. I always got the brunt of it, as her mother. She always had a comeback. She always had to have the last word' I just missed that so much, she says. When I went into my room, I would put my ear against the wall and just really hope that she would still be there. In the weeks that followed she tried to return to her job as a food technologist, but, she says, going back to my normal way of life just highlighted that she wasnt with us. I would drive home knowing that she wouldnt be there when I arrived. As a result, she was forced to stop working last March. Despite all she has been though, Esther is more composed than anyone could imagine. Yes, she weeps for her lost child but its impossible not to feel humbled by her strength and dignity. Her compassion verges on the superhuman when she discusses Jenkinsons mother, Emma Sutton, 49. She will be grieving as well and I want her to know that I dont blame her. I know how difficult it is to keep track of your children. Parenting doesnt come with a handbook and no one wants to raise a child to do what they did. But Esther also admits there are moments when she blames herself. I was the only person Brianna had and I was the one responsible for her. I was the one that should have protected her. I just feel I should have been able to do something more, then this wouldnt have happened. Low points like these would consume many of us. Has she had therapy, I wonder? Wes has had counselling, as has Alisha, but I havent yet. Instead, she vows to remain resolute. Every time a negative thought comes in, I make a conscious effort to chase it out, she says, softly. Her determination to make room for joy is evidenced when she reveals that in the last few weeks, Wes has asked her to marry him. He suddenly dropped down on one knee while in their living room, taking her utterly by surprise. I thought he was joking, she tells me, smiling. Brianna would have been so excited by the wedding, she was very fond of Wes, she continues, her voice breaking with emotion again. Hes such a good man and hes been an amazing step-dad. Hes been my complete rock. Their wedding is set to be a low-key affair, with 60 guests and a woodland ceremony in June. It was very emotional when we went to see the venue because I thought, Brianna isnt going to be here but well take her memory with us, says Esther. Its just so bittersweet, that she wont be able to be a bridesmaid like Alisha. She would have loved to have seen me and Wes get married. But Ive already decided I will have some pink flowers in my flower crown for Brianna. She will be with us in spirit. Clearly a deeply intuitive mother, as Esther recalls Briannas early life including the years before Brianna realised she was transgender its notable how consistently supportive she was of her child. Having split from the girls father, Peter Spooner, 42, when Brianna was less than two months old, Esther brought them up as a single mother. Naturally, the three were very close. Esther tells me Brianna was a happy child who idolised her older sister, insisting on taking gymnastics classes to be just like her. Although she had dyslexia, and was later diagnosed with autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Brianna loved her time at Bruche Primary School and her move to high school, in September 2018, was smooth. Indeed, life was relatively normal for the family until the pandemic. Lockdown, says Esther, had a seismic impact on Briannas mental health. Esther was classed as a key worker and Brianna, then 14, was often at home on her phone, with just the internet for company. I couldnt monitor her when she was at home on her own, Esther says. She had a phone and was living in this online world. She wasnt socialising face to face with people and, as I now know, she was looking at things that were quite disturbing. She developed an eating disorder and was hospitalised on one occasion because her weight had dropped so low. She also began to self-harm. After her death, Esther discovered Brianna had been visiting disgusting pro-anorexia and self-harm sites on Twitter. It was also around this time that Brianna confided in Alisha that she had begun to question her gender. She spoke to her sister about it first and then she told me, Esther says. I had had thoughts, that maybe she was questioning her sexuality, so it didnt come as a huge surprise when she did come out as trans. She was very much into gymnastics, which I suppose is a more female orientated sport, and there were signs, all of her friendships were with girls. Sorry, I dont think Ive told anyone this before Because Brianna just loved being in her bedroom, Ive got her ashes in a pink casket in her room, so shes always with us. Initially, when she told us she wanted to transition I did worry that she was potentially making life harder for herself, that she was going to have a more difficult road. But she hadnt been very happy and she felt this was going to make her happy, so I fully supported her. At the time she was anxious, feeling low and suicidal. So I was glad she could come to me and speak to me and that she wasnt suffering alone. Esther and Alisha also helped her choose her new name after vetoing her first choice of Britney. Theres no way I was going to let her call herself Britney, Esther laughs. Luckily, Alisha was backing me up and saying, You cant be called that. So we compromised on Brianna. Esther says Brianna adapted to her new identity well and doesnt believe her transition was the cause of her mental health struggles. Maybe it impacts your mental health if you feel like you have to hide away and you dont feel like youve got that support, says Esther. But it was the pandemic and lockdown that massively affected her. The struggles she had were the same as so many other children had. In words that will strike a chord with so many parents, Esther says Brianna was very protective over her phone and it was a source of many arguments. On one occasion, when Brianna was 14, Esther took her phone away for two weeks over the summer. Notably, says Esther, she became much happier. When lockdown ended, Brianna found it difficult to return to lessons, not because of her new identity if anything, says Esther, she was liberated by that. Nor was she worried about being bullied. Rather she felt anxious about being around hundreds of other people again after being alone for so long. She was so complex, Esther says. She had her anxiety and all of her struggles, but she was also really outgoing. Indeed, says Esther, she had many friends at school who were really accepting of her. She was really witty. She had such a sharp tongue. I always got the brunt of it, as her mother. She always had a comeback. She always had to have the last word. Yet her anxiety persisted and Esther describes how Brianna became more reclusive. It was not uncommon for her to spend several days at a time alone in her bedroom, not leaving the house even eating meals in her room. Esther and Alisha became concerned that Brianna was chatting to strangers online behaviour that might lead to her putting herself in risky situations. It was constant worry and a constant battle. And it was one that school was involved with as well. They were really supportive because they were concerned about what she was doing. She was offered internet safety talks, but she didnt want to listen. Esther is convinced that, had her daughters killers not been able to send disturbing messages to each other on such platforms or view the dark web, Brianna would be alive today Little wonder then that Esther is now campaigning for better regulation of social media and wants new legislation to help parents control what their children can access online through their smartphones. She is convinced that, had her daughters killers not been able to send disturbing messages to each other on such platforms or view the dark web, Brianna would be alive today. How many parents out there dont know if their child is accessing this kind of stuff? Its scary. Thats why Im calling for mobile phone companies to take more responsibility. Her campaigning doesnt end there. A month after Briannas death, at her funeral, she also asked for donations to the Mindfulness in Schools Project, a charity that delivers training for teachers and builds lessons for children with the aim of helping them navigate difficulties in life. So far she has raised more than 70,000 and eventually hopes every school in the country will have a mindfulness teacher which, she says, would be a fitting legacy for her daughter. This is her new vocation, then trying to protect the metal health of the next generation. In case Im lucky enough to have grandchildren one day, she smiles. Ever positive, despite the pain. To support Esthers petition and charity go to: https://www.change.org/p/change-the-law-to-make-phone-companies-more-responsible-for-children-s-online-welfare https://www.gofundme.com/f/briannagheymemorial A 15-year-old teenager thwarted a mass shooting at his Ohio school after another student confided in him that he had a kill list and planned to shoot dead eight students and a teacher. Boom Swallen told his father that the unidentified 14-year-old was planning at Mariemont High School in Cincinnati, and they then contacted authorities. The teenager also threatened to kill Swallen if he told anyone. The teenager was taken into custody on Wednesday and was charged as an adult with conspiracy to commit aggravated murder, WCPO News reported. Speaking at a news conference on Thursday, an emotional Zach Swallen said his son is 'a hero for what he did'. 'The kid had the firearms and had a very elaborate plan and had every intention of carrying out that plan,' he said. 'This swift action was definitely warranted and I'm grateful that my son reached out because if he hadn't.' Mariemont City Schools' Superintendent, Steven Estepp, said that the student planned to shoot up the high school and the junior high school, Fox19 Now News reported. Text messages revealed the young suspect and an adult co-conspirator planned to use gas in the school, kidnap students and go on a killing spree. Boom Swallen told his father, Zach Swallen, that the unidentified 14-year-old Mariemont High School student had a kill list and planned to murder at least eight people Speaking at a news conference, an emotional Zach Swallen said his son is 'a hero for what he did' At the press conference on Thursday, Swallen said that his son, 'doesn't lie'. 'He's very literal, I could tell by his tone. And it was told to my son that if he disclosed anything about the plan to anybody, he would be shot and killed,' he said. 'But my son literally told me he didn't care if he got killed as long as he could protect his classmates.' According to Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers, the unnamed student hatched the plan in January with an adult, in his 20s, who lives out-of-state. They prepared a list of students and teachers they wanted to kill, and planned to access a gun located in the student's home. The prosecutor said she plans to request the student is charged as an adult. Power said if convicted the boy could face life in prison. It is unclear if the teen's alleged co-conspirator has been arrested. The 14-year-old is currently being held in a juvenile detention facility. He will be evaluated for mental health issues, The Cincinnati Enquirer reported. The text messages between the would-be-gunman and his co-conspirator were sent between January 13 and January 18 of this year. Screenshots of the teen and the unnamed man were obtained by the Enquirer from the Hamilton County Prosecutor's office. On January 13. Teen: 'When are you gonna do it' Unnamed man: 'I will let you know.' January 15. Teen: 'I need you to do it soon. Like this week soon.' January 17 at 1.05am. Teen: 'You have 3 days unless you plan on doing it while I'm there and risk (accidentally) shooting me.' Unnamed man: 'I mean, heads up, you might want to get out of the classroom if I do.' 'Fair,' the teen replied. 'You'll bring a second gun?' Unnamed man: 'Yeah.' Teen: 'So full kit gear and second gun?' Unnamed man: 'Yes bro.' Unnamed man: 'Do you know the plan you're going with?' Teen: 'If you do it on a day where I'm there, WHICH I DON'T PREFER, I will be wearing a second pair of clothes underneath You'll need to take care of the front office first.' At 1.10 am. Teen: 'Take the cameras offline and then we have free reign, unless we gas the place.' Unnamed man: 'Do you know anybody that's good with cameras?' Teen: 'Me. But I was just thinking we break the controls.' At 1.15 am Teen: 'I'd prefer to gas the place, erase the cameras, kill the people we need/want to, kidnap the attractive ones to (expletive) late(r).' Unnamed man: 'Yeah, sounds like a plan.' Teen: 'You can get the gas, right?' Unnamed man: 'Yeah.' 'What kind of gas do you want?' Teen: 'Anesthesia.' At 3.10pm Teen: 'I need them dead really soon.' Unnamed man: 'I got you bro.' Teen: 'Can you do tomorrow?' Unnamed man: 'Idk.' On January 18. Teen: 'Hey I got another person for the list.' 'His nickname is (redacted).' 'Cut his balls off.' Unnamed man: 'Bet.' Teen: 'I can't go with you.' Unnamed man: 'I'm screwed if you can't go with me.' Boom Swallen, pictured with his father Zach, alerted his father after the student after he confided in him. Boom was also threatened that he'd be killed if he told anyone about the plan. 'It takes a real warrior and real strength to do the right things,' he said Mariemont High School is located on Warrior Way in Cincinnati, Ohio Boom's dad expressed some empathy for the boy and said he hope he gets the help he needs, and that he and his son forgive him. 'We don't know what he's going through and I feel sorry for him,' he said. 'I want him to know that my son forgives him and I forgive him and I hope he gets help and we're all able to, you know, come together.' Speaking about his son, Zach said that it 'takes a real warrior and real strength to do the right things'. Mariemont City Schools' Superintendent, Steven Estepp, expressed his gratitude for the father and son. 'I'm just incredibly thankful that we are able to say today that this plot was thwarted and that a very serious tragedy was avoided because of the proactive measures that this student and this student's parents took to report their concern to our local police department,' Estepp said. He also thanked the local police department, the FBI, and the prosecutor's office for their swift action. Boom was acknowledge for his courage and will be given the National Student Hero Award by The Uvalde Foundation For Kids, a nonprofit whose mission is to end violence in America's schools. Daniel Chapin, founder of the Uvalde Foundation For Kids, spoke about the young man's bravery. 'This student who helped extinguish a possible threat to fellow students, represents the reality of how the climate of violence plaguing our nations schools and threatening student lives can come to an end - not through gun control or more safety planning meetings,' he said. 'But rather through alert, caring students such as this young man who refuse to stand by when a potential threat stands against their friends.' A pretrial hearing is set for February 21 in juvenile court. Police believe chemical attack suspect Abdul Ezedi may have thrown himself off Chelsea Bridge and drowned in the Thames rather than turn himself in. Metropolitan Police officers have been chasing the 35-year-old Afghan asylum seeker since Wednesday, January 31, after he doused a mother and her two daughters in chemical in a horrific attack. The woman, who suffered potentially life-changing injuries, was known to Ezedi and remains in hospital in a critical, but stable condition. But it is understood investigators now believe it is possible her suspected attacker died in the river soon after the incident. CCTV footage of Abdul Ezedi (bottom right wearing a black jacket), the suspect in the Clapham alkaline substance attack, crossing over Chelsea Bridge The Metropolitan Police said two raids were carried out by armed officers at addresses in Newcastle associated with alkali attack suspect Abdul Ezedi in the early hours of Thursday morning The manhunt for fugitive Abdul Ezedi (pictured) entered its second week with police revealing the motive behind the 'brutal' attack appears to be the breakdown of a relationship Abdul Ezedi was last seen leaving Tower Hill underground station in east London at 9.33pm on January 31 (pictured leaving the tube station) Nick Aldworth a former national counter-terrorism co-ordinator with 36 years' experience in the police and military, says it is 'not unlikely' Ezedi could have taken his own life One source told The Sun: 'The investigation team believe Ezedi died soon after the last sighting of him on camera on the north side of the river.' Manhunt specialists from the Met's counter terrorism fugitive teams last placed Ezedi on the north side of Vauxhall Bridge, 59 minutes after the attack. From there, he was last seen walking west towards Chelsea Bridge, where he could to have jumped into the water. At a news briefing on Wednesday Commander Jon Savell said: 'It is a possibility he has gone into the Thames. 'Sadly, we recover people from the Thames and it takes a while for it to happen. 'It is a very fast-flowing body of water. Nobody has seen anyone going into the Thames and no bodies have been recovered.' Last week, Nick Aldworth a former national counter-terrorism co-ordinator with 36 years' experience in the police and military, said it was is 'not unlikely' Ezedi could have taken his own life. He told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'I think if we've not seen or heard from him in the the last couple of days, which appears to be the case, he's gone to ground, possibly supported by somebody... 'Or - it's not unlikely or improbable - that he may have taken his own life. There is therefore a body to be found somewhere.' Questions have been raised over how the suspect, who was granted asylum in the UK after two failed attempts, was able to stay in the country despite being convicted of a sex offence. Police said Ezedi left Newcastle in the early hours of Wednesday and travelled south to London and was in the Tooting area by around 6.30am. His vehicle was seen again in Croydon, south London, at around 4.30pm and by around 7pm he was in Streatham. Ezedi allegedly threw the younger child to the ground during the attack at 7.25pm, before attempting to drive away from the scene, crashing into a stationary vehicle and fleeing on foot. Minutes later he boarded a Tube train at Clapham South Underground station, and by 8pm he was at King's Cross Tube station. Police say three members of the public who came to the aid of the family during Wednesday's attack, two aged in their 30s and one in her 50s, have all been discharged from hospital with minor burns. BBC Radio 4 also interviewed a woman who suffered third degree burns to her foot while rescuing the three-year-old girl in the attack. Sue Sim, former Chief Constable of Northumbria Police who led the manhunt for killer Raoul Moat, said: 'What you do have to remember is it's very easy to vanish in a city' The woman, who lives nearby, rang police and went with the girl to hospital. She took action after she saw the little girl being pulled out of the car and thrown to the ground Ezedi's movements on the day of the attack Police have released a timeline of Abdul Ezedi's movements on the day of the attack. 00:15 Ezedi's vehicle is seen in Newcastle 06:30 His vehicle is then seen traveling into Tooting, London 16:30 A further sighting of his vehicle is confirmed in Croydon 19:00 He is then seen driving in Streatham 19:25 Attack takes place in Lessar Avenue, SW4, before Ezedi makes off in his vehicle which crashes nearby. He leaves the car and runs off. 19:33 Ezedi boards a train at Clapham South Tube Station. 19:59 He is then seen leaving that train at King's Cross Tube Station. 20:42 He is then seen on CCTV leaving Tesco at 21 Caledonian Rd, London N1 9DX. He exits and turns right. 21:00 - Ezedi enters King's Cross Tube Station and boards a Victoria Line tube Southbound. Advertisement She said: 'I think everyone just froze because they didn't realise what had just happened. In the spacxe of a second, he did it again and that's when everyone tried to grab him, because if no one grabbed him, he would have done it a third time.' Sue Sim, the former Chief Constable of Northumbria Police - who led the manhunt for killer Raoul Moat, shared her thoughts on the hunt to find Abdul Azedi. She told Good Morning Britain: 'What you do have to remember is, it's very easy to vanish in a city. People walk with their heads down, people don't like to acknowledge other people. 'A city is far easier to vanish into than the wilds of Northumberland where Moat went missing in 2010. 'But yes, if somebody is hiding him, hand him in immediately.' Moat, who had a hatred of police, notoriously gunned down his ex-partner's new boyfriend Chris Brown before shooting PC David Rathband in Newcastle city centre. He was caught after seven days hiding in woodland near Rothbury, Northumberland, when a woman watched him walk past her front door and phoned police. Moat later shot himself in the head in a showdown with police. Ms Sim added: 'The public are the best support to the police in instances when people go missing. Yes, police will be using all their investigative and intelligence techniques. But the public - they're the ones who will bring this man to justice. 'Please call the police immediately if you know where he is.' Asked by host Richard Madeley, she said she had 'no doubt' Ezedi would be found. Releasing the new information about Ezedi's movements, officers confirmed the 35-year-old, suspected of chucking an alkaline substance over the family on Wednesday evening, was last seen exiting Tower Hill Underground station that night at 9.33pm. After fleeing the scene on Lesser Avenue in the south London suburb, Ezedi visited a Tesco Express store on Caledonian Road, where he bought a bottle of water. He then boarded a southbound Victoria Line train from King's Cross at 9pm. The suspect arrived to Victoria Station at 9.10pm before switching tube lines, departing on the eastbound District Line at 9.16pm, before exiting the tube station in east London. New footage released by the force today showed Ezedi strolling through the Tesco store with what appears to be a large burn mark over his right eye. He looks face-down at the floor every time he passes a fellow customer or member of staff. The man, dressed in a blue t-shirt with a black coat and black jeans, clutches onto a large water bottle as he walks out the door of the store and turns right towards the station. The huge reward for information comes as the nation-wide manhunt for the fugitive enters its fourth day. Officers re-issued calls for Ezedi to hand himself into the police. Forensic police at the scene on Wednesday night near Clapham following the attack Providing an update on the chemical that the 35-year-old is suspected of chucking at the mother and her two little girls, age three and eight, police confirmed it an alkaline substance. Commander Savell said: 'The liquid used in the attack was a very strong concentrated corrosive substance, either liquid sodium hydroxide or liquid sodium carbonate.' The officer added that further investigations were taking place to compare the liquid to the large containers seized from Ezedi's address in Newcastle. Commander Savell urged anyone with information to contact police, adding: 'I am hugely grateful to the public for the significant number of calls that we have received. 'Your help is critical. A reward of up to 20,000 is now available for information leading to his arrest. 'I must warn anyone who is helping Ezedi to evade capture - if you are harbouring or assisting him then you will be arrested.' In a direct appeal to Ezedi, Darius Nasimi of the charity of Afghanistan & Central Asian Association, said: 'Abdul, I am speaking directly to you. I want you to go straight to a police station immediately. 'You have a serious injury that needs to be seen to but, more importantly, you must do the right thing and hand yourself in to police. 'This has gone on for long enough.' He said the suspect could contact the charity or go to the police immediately to help with the enquiries. Last night the National Crime Agency - the UK's equivalent of the FBI - were drafted in to help the Met find the 35-year-old who is suspected of chucking the alkaline substance at the family on Wednesday evening. Officers are investigating concerns that an organised crime group could be helping the fugitive hide from the authorities. New video footage shows the suspect walking through the Tesco Express on Caledonian Road, nearest to King's Cross train station Police have shared footage of Ezedi pictured on CCTV in King's Cross (left) and Tesco (right) with significant injuries after the attack The 31-year-old mother, who was known to Ezedi, remains 'very poorly' and sedated in hospital with her injuries thought to be 'life changing'. Her daughters, aged three and eight, have now been released from hospital following the attack. The woman was reportedly living in the hotel in Clapham with her two little girls for a fortnight, thought to have been hiding from Ezedi. The search for Ezedi is being led by the Met's Specialist Crime Command unit who are working with the Home Office, UK Border Force, UK Visas and Immigration, the National Crime Agency and British Transport Police. Local police forces are also involved in the massive hunt for the man. It comes as witnesses continue to relive the terrifying ordeal with a brave have-a-go hero recalling how her partner lunged at the suspect as he tried to harm the toddler. One couple ran out onto Lesser Avenue in the south London suburb when they heard terrifying screams coming from outside. The pair, who asked to remain anonymous, said they saw a man - thought to be Ezedi - attacking a 'vulnerable woman'. They told the Sunday Times: 'We had no idea any substance was involved; only that the guy was clearly intent on hurting the [three-year-old]. 'He then went to pick the child up off the road to do it [throw the child to the ground] again, which is when my partner lunged in and tackled him, grabbing his leg and falling to the ground in the process like a rugby tackle. 'I have no doubt that if my partner had not jumped in then the child would no longer be with us, and if our other neighbours hadn't immediately taken the family and washed them down then their injuries would have been far worse.' Both the man and woman have been injured from the attack. He has arm injuries, while his partner has 'burnt both eyeballs' and may have permanent damage. Ezedi was last seen on Wednesday night at King's Cross Underground station where he boarded a southbound Victoria line train, with what looked like severe burn son his right eye. Forensics at the scene take picture of the location close to Clapham Common following the incident Over the weekend police said 'significant and important pieces of evidence' were recovered in raids at two addresses in east London and three in Newcastle. They include empty containers with corrosive warnings found at one address in Newcastle, which are shown in new footage released by detectives. Forensic tests to see if the containers held the substance used in the attack are ongoing. Since launching its appeal, the Met said it has received 'dozens of calls' about the manhunt, including possible sightings of Ezedi. The force said it is working 'round the clock' with British Transport Police, Northumbria Police, the National Crime Agency and Transport for London on the manhunt. Commander Jon Savell said: 'The police investigation to establish his subsequent movements and ultimately locate him is continuing at pace. 'I want to thank everyone who has contacted police to share what they know. 'We have received dozens of calls with information, including possible sightings, and every single piece of information has been recorded and forms part of our ongoing investigation. 'I can assure the public that my colleagues and I are fully committed to using every available tool and tactic for as long as it takes to find Abdul Ezedi. The Met Police have released more images of Clapham chemical attack Abdul Ezedi strolling injured through King's Cross station following Wednesday's events 'I am today urging the public to remain vigilant and to contact police immediately if they may have seen Ezedi or have information about him. 'I would also like to reiterate that if you see Ezedi, you should call 999 immediately. He should not be approached.' Questions remain over how the suspect, who was granted asylum in the UK after two failed attempts, was able to stay in the country despite being convicted of a sex offence. Ezedi, who is thought to have arrived in the UK from Afghanistan on the back of a lorry in 2016, claimed to have converted to Christianity, which would have put him at risk following the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan. The Crown Prosecution Service confirmed he was handed a suspended sentence at Newcastle Crown Court on January 9 2018 after pleading guilty to one charge of sexual assault and one of exposure. He was put on the Sex Offenders Register for 10 years. Today a shadow minister has suggested that Ezedi should never have been granted asylum into the UK. When asked by Trevor Phillips on his Sky News programme whether there is 'something wrong' with a system that allowed the wanted man to stay in the UK, Chris Bryant said 'yes'. He added: 'In the main, on the face of it, if everything that we have been told is true, then it seems absolutely extraordinary that the British people should be put at such risk from this person. 'Of course it's something we might need to look at.' Education Secretary Gillian Keegan said this morning that the alkali attack was 'not really about asylum'. She told Sky 'we need to get to the bottom' of why Ezedi was allowed to remain in Britain indicating the issue is being investigated by the Home Office. Asked how it was possible the suspect had been granted asylum after being found guilty of a sexual offence, Mrs Keegan said: 'I think that is something that more than one person is asking. 'My understanding is the Home Secretary has asked for all the details, but this is not really about asylum,' she added, before going on to talk about the victims and others impacted by the attack. She continued: 'Clearly, what we say is that anybody who commits crimes is not able to stay in this country. So, if you have a sentence of more than 12 months, you are not allowed to stay if you have a criminal record, etc. 'We don't want to have people in this country who have criminal records.' Prime Minster Rishi Sunak's spokesman said on Friday that the PM does not think 'foreign criminals should be able to stay' in the UK. It has been reported that the suspect was able to gain asylum after claiming he had converted to Christianity. The Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle said in a statement it had found nothing to suggest he had become a Catholic but checks were continuing. It said: 'Our thoughts and prayers are first and foremost with the victims of this appalling attack in south London.' The diocese confirmed that Ezedi 'visited our diocesan Justice and Peace Refugee Project, a charitable venture which assists a wide range of people who come to us in need'. It added: 'After checking local parish records and central records and after consulting with clergy we have no indication that Abdul Ezedi was received into the Catholic faith in this diocese or that a Catholic priest of this diocese gave him a reference. 'We do not know which Christian church received him nor which Christian minister gave him a reference.' The project says on its website that it gives food, toiletries and clothes to vulnerable people. It does not get involved with any asylum claims clients may be pursuing, it is understood. It is understood that Ezedi visited it recently. The Church of England said it is currently not aware of any links to its churches, with a spokesperson adding that it is 'the role of the Home Office, and not the church, to vet asylum seekers and judge the merits of their individual cases'. The case has echoes of that of Iraqi-born Emad Al Swealmeen, 32, who died from a blast and subsequent fire after his homemade bomb detonated in a taxi outside Liverpool Women's Hospital. He also claimed to be a Christian convert to support his asylum claim. Police in hazmat suits raid a home in east London amid the search for Clapham chemical attack fugitive Ezedi Officers were seen smashing in the doors of the property shortly after 2am on Friday At a press conference on Friday, Mr Savell urged the suspect to hand himself in. He said: 'Abdul, you clearly have got some very significant injuries. We've seen the images. You need some medical help, so do the right thing and hand yourself in.' His brother Hassan Ezedi told The Sun he would hand the suspect in if he knew where he was. The wanted man left Newcastle in the 'very, very early hours' of Wednesday and travelled south to the capital and was in the Tooting area by around 6.30am, police say. His vehicle was seen again in Croydon, south London, at around 4.30pm and by around 7pm he was in Streatham. Ezedi allegedly threw the younger child to the ground during the attack at 7.25pm, before attempting to drive away from the scene, crashing into a stationary vehicle and fleeing on foot. Minutes later he boarded a tube at Clapham South Underground station, and by 8pm he was at King's Cross tube station. MailOnline revealed that Ezedi has more recently living in the Byker area of Newcastle in a hostel on the city's Wilfred Street St Vincent's Centre, in Byker, Newcastle, where acid attack suspect Abdul Ezedi visited the Justice and Peace Refugee Project every two weeks for toiletries and food At 8.42pm, Ezedi was captured on CCTV in Tesco on the Caledonian Road, pictured with a 'fairly significant facial injury' buying a bottle of water, before leaving and heading right. He got on a Victoria line Tube at 9pm heading south, the last confirmed sighting. Police say three members of the public who came to the aid of the family during Wednesday's attack, two in their 30s and one in her 50s, have all been discharged from hospital with minor burns. Five officers who responded to the incident were also treated and have now left hospital. As well as the 11 people taken to hospital, a man in his 50s, who also helped, declined hospital treatment for minor injuries, police said. Anyone with information about Abdul Ezedi is asked to call 020 7175 2784 or for an immediate sighting dial 999. To remain anonymous contact Crimestoppers. Anna Delvey has launched a legal bid to quash her 24/7 confinement by claiming her 'draconian' house arrest serves 'absolutely no purpose' and 'breaches her constitutional rights', DailyMail.com can reveal. Delvey, 33, real name Anna Sorokin, has been holed up in her $4,250-a-month apartment in New York's East Village since October 2022, when she was released from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention for overstaying her visa. The East European fraudster, who posed as a German heiress, served nearly four years in prison after her 2019 conviction drew widespread attention. She was taken back into custody by ICE six weeks after her release in 2021. Her lawyers filed a habeus corpus petition a civil suit used to assess whether an imprisonment is lawful claiming that Delvey suffered from 'severe emotional distress and stress' because of her bond conditions. Documents obtained by DailyMail.com say she should be allowed to attend doctors' appointments and go grocery shopping without prior approval of the court amid her deportation battle. Anna Delvey has been under house arrest in her $4,250-a-month East Village apartment since October 2022 The Eastern European fraudster, who posed as a German heiress, served nearly four years in prison after she was convicted in 2019 of swindling more than $200,000 from banks and people Delvey's team argue she should be allowed to hold business meetings, exercise and seek employment despite her house arrest. They add that her ban from social media, along with the other prohibitions, don't lower her flight risk or threat to the community and 'violate her constitutional rights' to free speech. She is currently subject to electronic monitoring. Her lawyers also bemoan her living situation, claiming that her Manhattan apartment is 'small', adding that she can only leave to speak with ICE or her probation officer, and for life-or-death medical emergencies and court hearings. Despite her ban, the fraudster launched a podcast called The Anna Delvey Show, in which she discusses 'preconceived notions of rule breakers' and goes 'beyond tired notions of what's right and wrong'. Her attorney John Sandweg filed the documents in federal court in the Southern District of New York on Friday, against Kenneth Genalo, the Field Office Director for ICE's NYC department, Patrick Lechleitner the Deputy Director of ICE, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas and Director of the Executive Office for Immigration Review David Neal. Sandweg claims that ICE offered 'no evidence' that Delvey posed a flight risk or danger to the community, relying on 'largely stale' clippings relating to her 2019 convictions. 'Ms. Sorokin disputes that such evidence is material, relevant to, or probative of her alleged dangerousness or flight risk', the documents state. 'This habeas petition does not challenge any underlying orders relating to removal. Rather, it seeks to vindicate Ms. Sorokin's constitutional rights to be free from indefinite, unreasonably prolonged, and arbitrary detention, to be free from punitive conditions of civil detention, and to exercise her freedom of speech.' They add that Delvey has a right to a review of her immigration detention, with her last bond hearing scheduled more than a year ago. As part of the filing, Delvey is demanding that the government pay for her attorneys' fees and costs if a judge rules in her favor. Her team also claim that former counsel Audrey Thomas was 'ineffective', and failed to file an appeal against a denial for her asylum application. Attorneys for Delvey have since had a motion to reopen the proceedings approved. Delvey dismissed Thomas who faked a heart attack in court as she was being sanctioned after the lawyer filed a lawsuit against the grifter claiming she owes her more than $152,000 in legal fees. According to the complaint, Delvey paid Thomas a retainer for appealing her conviction and overstaying her visa, for which she faced possible deportation to Germany, but failed to pay the outstanding amount. Delvey has accused her of withholding court records that the convicted fraudster needs to fight her deportation case. Her 2019 trial drew widespread attention, partly due to her over-the-top fashion choices in court. Delvey was ultimately convicted of attempted grand larceny, three grand larceny counts and four misdemeanor charges of theft of service. She was released from prison on good behavior on February 11, 2021 after serving nearly four years. The fake heiress previously said she believes she belongs in New York and will hold out under house arrest for 'as long as it takes,' while she appeals a deportation order to Germany where she was raised. The fake heiress previously said she believes she belongs in New York and will hold out under house arrest for 'as long as it takes' Delvey has been seen out in public wearing an ankle monitor since her release from prison. She is pictured with her lawyer at Manhattan Civil Court last year Delvey spent three years plundering New York society, dressing in expensive designer clothes, dining at fine restaurants and helping herself to what she wanted but couldn't afford. She left in her wake a trail of unpaid rent, hotel and credit card bills, bounced checks, fake wire transfers and empty promises to the 'friends' and associates who had loaned her money. The wannabe socialite boasted of having a $60million trust fund but often claimed her credit card wasn't working, but she could easily pay them back. She was arrested in October 2017 after one of her victims, Vanity Fair photo editor Rachel DeLoache Williams, went to the police claiming she had been swindled out of $62,000, and assisted with a subsequent sting operation. Delvey's lavish lifestyle as a con artist was captured in a 2022 miniseries 'Inventing Anna', telling the story of a woman leading New York's elite to believe she is a German heiress to a large fortune in order to bank a personal hoard of cash and goods as she looks to open an art-themed club. Russian-born Delvey spent two years in prison after being charged with grand larceny and theft of services. Horrified air passengers screamed and were left 'traumatised' yesterday when a German husband started coughing up 'litres of blood' in front of his wife before collapsing and dying mid-flight. The 63-year-old traveller, who has not been named, was said to have boarded the Lufthansa flight from Bangkok to Munich visibly ill before his condition rapidly deteriorated. 'It was absolute horror, everyone was screaming,' fellow passenger Martin Missfelder, 53, from Zurich, Switzerland, told Swiss outlet Blick. The man - who was travelling with his Filipina wife - had got on with 'cold sweats' and was 'breathing much too quickly' before passengers rushed to help him, offering chamomile tea and taking his pulse. But as the plane took off, his health went quickly downhill. The man was said to have been spitting into a bag when a 'gush of blood' came out of his mouth and nose, splattering the walls of the Airbus A380 aircraft. Horrified air passengers screamed and were left 'traumatised' yesterday when a German husband started coughing up 'litres of blood' in front of his wife before collapsing and dying mid-flight. Passengers took pictures onboard as the drama unfolded A medical vehicle is pictured at the airport after a man died on a flight from Bangkok yesterday The 63-year-old traveller, who has not been named, was said to have boarded the Lufthansa flight from Bangkok to Munich visibly ill before his condition rapidly deteriorated. Hours later he was taken off the aircraft lifeless in the Thai capital (pictured) The man's wife had initially told cabin crew that her husband was feeling unwell because they had been forced to run to catch the plane at Bangkok airport. 'A flight attendant then reacted and asked him if he was okay, she was very worried,' said Martin's 55-year-old nursing specialist wife Karin, who was sitting with her husband directly behind the couple. But when the German was given the green-light to stay on board, Karin intervened and told cabin crew a doctor was urgently needed. The pilot arrived and called for a doctor over the loudspeaker. A 30-year-old Polish medic 'with poor English' then arrived, asked how the man was and took his pulse before indicating that he seemed OK. Martin told Blick: 'They then gave him a little chamomile tea, but he was already spitting blood into the bag that his wife held out to him.' The plane took off before the man's condition dramatically deteriorated, increasingly spitting blood into a bag - before a 'gush' of blood came out of his mouth and nose. 'It was absolute horror, everyone was screaming,' said Martin, adding that the man lost 'litres of blood' which covered the cabin walls. Flight attendants rushed in to action after the tragic eruption. Ms Missfelder said staff kept up 'amateurish' resuscitation attempts for about half an hour but it was clear the man could not be saved. 'It was dead quiet on board,' Ms Missfelder said, describing the aftermath. The man was carried into the galley and the plane had to fly back to Bangkok with the captain announcing over the loudspeaker that there had been a death onboard. Ms Missfelder said she blamed herself for not doing more to prevent the tragedy when the plane was still on the ground. The flight turned around, returning to Bangkok Airport where passengers complained they were left to wait without guidance for two hours. Flight data shows the plane left Bangkok at 23:50 and landed back in Thailand at 08:28 on Friday morning. Travellers on board said the wife of the man who had died had to walk alone through customs as they were rebooked on another flight via Hong Kong. 'She stood there all alone and apathetic and had to endure all the formalities,' Mr Missfelder told Blick. He said it was 'unacceptable' that '30 traumatised passengers' were left to wait without direction - and said he hopes for an apology to the group and the wife of the deceased. Passengers also claim they were offered 'a 10-franc voucher (9.06)'. It was not clear from local reports what the voucher was intended for. A spokesperson for Lufthansa told MailOnline today: 'We confirm that on 8 February 2024 on flight LH773 (Airbus A380) from Bangkok to Munich a medical emergency of a passenger occurred on board. 'Although immediate and comprehensive first aid measures were taken by the crew and a doctor on board, the passenger died during the flight. 'After 1.5 hours of flight time, the crew decided to return to Bangkok, where the aircraft landed normally and safely. 'There, the instructions of the medical emergency services and the Thai authorities were followed. The passengers on this flight have since been rebooked on other alternative flights as it has been cancelled. 'Our thoughts are with the relatives of the deceased passenger. We also regret the inconvenience caused to the passengers of this flight. 'Please understand that we are generally cannot provide any further details in the event of medical emergencies for reasons of privacy.' The jet was forced to return to Bangkok after the German husband's horrific on-board death yesterday Illustrative image of an Airbus A380. A man died flying from Bangkok to Munich on Thursday Lufthansa confirmed a man had died on a flight to Swiss-German outlet Blick In January 2024, a passenger was found dead in a plane toilet during a flight from Tenerife, Spain to Manchester, England. Travellers aboard the Jet2 flight alerted staff after they noticed the bathroom on board had been occupied for some time. The crew discovered the man, who has not been named, had died, prompting plane to divert to Cork in Ireland. 'Flight LS918 from Tenerife to Manchester diverted to Cork Airport on Tuesday January 2, due to a customer requiring medical attention,' a Jet2 spokesman told MailOnline. 'Regrettably, we can confirm that the customer sadly passed away, despite the best efforts of our highly-trained crew who intervened as soon as they became aware. 'This was an extremely difficult situation for our crew and we would like to thank them for their efforts. 'Our thoughts are with the customer's family and friends at this very difficult time.' New York Republican Rep. Claudia Tenney sent a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland demanding that he 'begin proceedings' to remove President Joe Biden under the 25th Amendment after a bombshell report highlighted Biden's mental challenges. The Department of Justice released its long-awaited investigation into Joe Biden's mishandling of classified documents Thursday, delivering a damning assessment of the president's 'diminished faculties' and limited memory. Special Counsel Robert Hur described him as 'a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory,' and that 'it would be difficult to convince a jury that they should convict him' for retaining classified documents. He ultimately recommended no charges be brought against Biden, sparking outrage from conservatives for a 'double standard' as Donald Trump faces 40 criminal counts for his own mishandling of classified materials. Tenney wrote a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland Thursday stating that the 'alarming' findings in the report signal that Biden should be 'charged' unless he's not 'mentally competent to stand trial.' Garland should 'begin proceedings to remove the President pursuant to the 25th Amendment of the United States Constitution,' Tenney said in the letter obtained by DailyMail.com. The 25th Amendment, which outlines presidential succession, gives the vice president and Cabinet power to remove the commander in chief from office via a majority vote in the event it's determined he or she is no longer fit for office. Rep. Claudia Tenney sent a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland saying he should begin proceedings to remove the president from office under the 25th Amendment President Joe Biden held a chaotic press conference Thursday night to dispel doubts about his 'poor memory' and 'diminished faculties' It has never been invoked in U.S. history. 'Being unable to remember what position he held, and when, is exceptionally concerning,' she went on referring to Hur's recount that Biden couldn't recall when he served as vice president. 'Being unable to remember when one's child died - even within a time frame of several years - is perhaps more frightening.' Biden struggled to remember when his son Beau died in an interview as part of the investigation, according to Hur. Tenney's letter, however, is just one strike in a salvo of Republican demands that Biden be removed by the 25th following Hur's report. 'Merrick Garland has a duty to invoke the 25th Amendment to his fellow Cabinet members,' Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., wrote on X. 'Or prosecute Biden. If he wont prosecute, then invoke the 25th now' Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., was the first top elected official to call for using the Constitution to oust the president Thursday. 'That [report] does not describe someone who should be the Commander in Chief of our armed forces and the defender of American freedoms,' Scott wrote on X. 'It's time for his cabinet to invoke the 25th Amendment.' Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., also piled on his call to use the 25th Amendment to remove Biden. Some of Biden's classified documents were stored the floor of his garage Hur wrote Biden is unlikely to get convicted by a jury because he appears as 'a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory' In addition to the classified documents discovered at Biden's Wilmington home, investigators also discovered classified documents stored at his Washington, D.C. office 'The Special Counsel's report exposing that Joe Biden's mental decline is so severe that he can not stand trial means he is unfit for office,' she wrote on X. 'We must demand either the 25th amendment be invoked or impeachment,' the GOP firebrand continued. Another House Republican, Rep. Mary Miller of Illinois, similarly called for Biden's Cabinet to take action. 'For the safety of our nation, Joe Biden must resign. He could not remember basic facts about his life,' she posted on X. 'He is not competent to remain as Commander-in-Chief & every day that he remains, he puts America at risk.' 'If he won't resign, the Cabinet must invoke the 25th Amendment.' Missouri Republican Sen. Josh Hawley also chimed in, writing on X that it's 'time for the 25th Amendment.' Following the report, Biden decided to do a hasty press conference to strike down the claims about his mental state Thursday night. 'I know what the hell I'm doing! My memory has not gotten worse. My memory is fine. Take a look at what I have done since becoming president,' he said indignantly. 'No one thought I could pass any of the things I got passed. How did that happen? I guess I just forgot what was going on...' The president later took a question about the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Biden botched the answer, and the identification of a world leader, calling Egypt's Abdel Fattah El-Sisi the President of Mexico. Former President Trump, meanwhile, is facing a 40-count indictment of his handling of classified documents at his Florida home, Mar-a-Lago. Trump pleaded not guilty to all charges in June. Trump is facing decades in prison if he is found guilty, and Special Counsel Jack Smith - the lead prosecutor in the case - recently interviewed additional witnesses to bolster his case against the former president. The Republican-led House Judiciary Committee posted on X that the decision was a 'double standard.' 'Special Counsel Robert Hur recommends no criminal charges against President Biden in classified documents case. Despite the fact that Hur acknowledges Biden willfully retained and disclosed classified materials after his vice presidency when he was a private citizen,' the committee wrote. House Intelligence Committee Chairman Mike Turner, R-Ohio, also bashed Hur's recommendation. 'There is clearly a two-tiered system of justice in Attorney General Merrick Garland's Department of Justice,' he wrote. 'President Biden willfully hoarded classified information from his decades in the Senate and time as Vice President, yet Special Counsel Robert Hur has decided not to recommend charges against him.' Florida Republican Sen. Rick Scott said that it is time to invoke the 25th Amendment against president Joe Biden Special Counsel Robert Hur recommended that President Biden not be charged for his illegal mishandling of classified documents at his Delaware home and Washington, D.C. office Republican Missouri Sen. Markwayne Mullin posted on X: 'The special counsel report confirms that Biden 'willfully retained and disclosed classified materials' for years before he entered the White House.' 'Meanwhile, Trump's Mar-a-Lago home was raided by the FBI and he's facing a weaponized DOJ. A clear two-tiered system of justice.' The House Judiciary Chairman Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, wrote 'Today's report from Robert Hur tells us two things: There's a double standard of justice in this country. And Joe Biden isn't fit for office.' Even Trump's political rival, Nikki Haley, said the double standard between Biden's and Trump's cases was 'glaring.' 'Both Joe Biden and Donald Trump were reckless with classified documents,' the presidential hopeful wrote. 'If Biden's defense is old age and forgetfulness, Trump can easily make the same claim. Trump should quickly hire Biden's lawyers.' Alabama Rot has led to deaths of 318 dogs since 2012 - with ten dying this year An urgent warning has been issued to dog owners across the UK following a surge of cases of pets falling ill with Alabama Rot. Veterinary specialist clinic Anderson Moores in Winchester has warned owners to 'take precaution' after investigating the deadly disease in the UK for more than a decade. Their findings show that the disease, which can cause kidney failure, had led to the deaths of 318 dogs in the UK since 2012 - with ten dying so far this year, as reported by BBC News. Owners are being advised to check for skin lesions and wash pets after muddy walks, to curb the risk of the disease. It comes after Hannah Povey, from Farringdon, Hampshire, had her beloved cocker spaniel Betsy put down by vets in November. An urgent warning has been issued to dog owners across the UK following a surge of cases of pets falling ill with Alabama Rot Hannah Povey, from Farringdon, Hampshire, had her beloved cocker spaniel Betsy (pictured) put down by vets in November Findings show that the disease, which can cause kidney failure, had led to the deaths of 318 dogs in the UK since 2012 - with ten dying so far this year It was confirmed that Betsy died because of complications of Alabama Rot, which Hannah believes her pup caught whilst on a walk in Chawton Park Wood, within the South Downs National Park. Joshua Walker, a vet at Anderson Moores, said: 'We know the disease is associated with increasing rainfall and increasing temperatures in the autumn. 'It might be that the very wet, slightly warmer November has led to a surge in cases - it's important for everyone to be aware of the signs.' Scientists don't know exactly how Alabama Rot - also known as CRGV (cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy) - is caught, or how to prevent or cure it. They believe it could be bacteria or a toxin, but vets have no way of testing for the disease when a dog is alive. It can only be confirmed during a post mortem. However, once contracted, the disease can cause painful skin lesions that are normally found on the feet, legs, chest and abdomen of an affected pet, which can look like bites, sores, wounds or stings. In severe and more advanced cases, dogs can go on to develop life-threatening kidney failure. If a dog contracts Alabama Rot, there is only a ten per cent chance that it can be saved. It was confirmed that Betsy died because of complications of Alabama Rot , which Hannah believes her pup caught whilst on a walk in Chawton Park Wood, within the South Downs National Park Once contracted, the disease can cause painful skin lesions that are normally found on the feet, legs, chest and abdomen of an affected pet, which can look like bites, sores, wounds or stings Owners are being advised to check for skin lesions and wash pets after muddy walks, to curb the risk of the disease Mr Walker said: 'If walking in the woods, particularly between November and May when most cases have been reported, as a precaution wash off any areas with mud.' 'We don't know if that will prevent the disease but that seems like a reasonable thing to do to try and reduce transmission.' He added: 'It's important for everyone to be aware of the signs. If you do see an unexplained lesion, particularly if your dog is unwell, go to your local vets. Research is ongoing and we hope a cause will be forthcoming.' The disease was first discovered in the US during the late 1980s. In the UK, cases are mostly seen in winter months. It comes after fears for British pets were intensified in November last year after a deadly coronavirus strain which killed 8,000 cats in Cyprus arrived in the UK. Scientists said a feline brought to Britain from the Mediterranean island was found to be infected with the virus. The strain is said to be a new hybrid strain of an existing feline coronavirus and a canine one, called F-CoV-23. Democrat insiders say it is now 'panic time' after a blockbuster Justice Department report concluded Joe Biden has 'diminished faculties' and is an 'elderly man with a poor memory'. Increasingly, behind the scenes, a nuclear option is being considered to remove the 81-year-old president as the Democrat nominee at the party's convention in Chicago in August. The leading candidates to replace him include California Governor Gavin Newsom and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. 'I think it is now panic time. Biden should not be our standard bearer,' a former senior Democrat White House official, who worked with Biden, told Dailymail.com. 'He looked like a deer stuck in the headlights last night. There isn't enough gas in the tank for another four and-a-half years. Ultimately we're going to see more and more prominent Democrats saying the quiet part out loud. 'It's increasingly clear we have a deeply flawed candidate. Democracy is in the balance and this is not a smart path for our party.' U.S. President Joe Biden reacts angrily as he answers questions about a Justice Department report into his handling of classified documents This image, contained in the report from special counsel, shows the garage of President Biden where classified documents were found in Wilmington, during a search by the FBI on Dec. 21, 2022 On Thursday night Biden delivered a furious response to a 388-page report by Justice Department special counsel Robert Hur, which found he willfully retained and shared classified documents, some of which were fund dumped in his garage. At one point in a rambling press conference at the White House he misidentified the president of Egypt as the president of Mexico. 'I think there was a lot of aspirin consumed last night at the White House, they're trying to put the toothpaste back in the bottle, but once it's out it's out,' the former official said. 'This is has brought into public view what was acknowledged privately. 'It now sits starkly in black and white in a report from the Justice Department. This is not a partisan hit job. 'We're talking about an extremely dangerous time in the world and he (Biden) is having these memory lapses while events are changing by the second. We've had two instances in the last week where he's brought dead European leaders back to life.' Governor of U.S. state of California Gavin Newsom is said to be 'waiting in the wings' although he has said he would not run against Joe Biden Many Democrats want former first lady Michelle Obama to replace Joe Biden as the 2024 Democrat nominee Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who Biden considered as a potential running mate, speaks at the SelectUSA Investment Summit, Bay 4, 2023, in Oxon Hill, Md In those instances Biden described recent conversations with the late French and German leaders Francois Mitterrand and Helmut Kohl. Democrats who think Biden should be the nominee face challenges because some deadlines for registering on state ballots have already passed. 'We're probably going to get to the convention and have to solve this if Biden hasn't stepped aside by then,' the former Democrat official said. 'At this point that is the optimal outcome for how we can change horses mid-race and get on board with someone who doesn't have the fragility.' The former official said Newsom, Whitmer and Illinois governor J.B. Pritzker had shown strength against Donald Trump's MAGA movement. 'These folks are waiting in the wings. What they need is the the air cover to start showing signs they are able to step in.' This image, contained in the report from special counsel Robert Hur, shows notebooks in a file cabinet under a printer that were seized in first-floor home office of President Joe Biden in Wilmington, Del., on Jan. 20, 2023, during a search by FBI agents Others have floated the idea of a run by an even more well-known figure like Michelle Obama. A recent Daily Mail poll found 60 percent of Americans think Biden should not run again. In an alarming sign for Biden it found 44 percent of Democrats thought it was not too late to replace him a the nominee. A Democrat member of Congress told NBC the Justice Department report was a 'nightmare' and the party was now in a 'grim situation'. Meanwhile, an ally of Biden told the network it was 'the worst day of his presidency.' A drunk driver who reversed her car over her one-year-old great-niece leaving her with just 'six-hours' to live has been jailed. Mary Casey, 34, crashed into two parked cars after she drove the wrong way down a one-way street in Cambridge on July 24, 2022. With other young family members in the car, she overtook four vehicles waiting at a red traffic light and careered at speed around a corner. She sped through no-entry signs before losing control of the car and colliding with the stationary vehicles. Her great niece was taken out of the car by another passenger and put on the pavement by St Barnabas Road, Cambridge. Mary Casey who reversed her car over her one-year-old great-niece leaving her with just 'six-hours' to live has been jailed She crashed into two parked cars after she drove the wrong way down a one-way street in Cambridge on July 24, 2022. Casey then reversed the car, running over the baby, who was sitting on the pavement. She continued driving the wrong way down the road before stopping only when her car was too damaged to drive. The one-year-old baby was rushed to Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, with serious injuries, including a bleed on the brain, fractured skull and fractured ribs. The girl was given six hours to live but miraculously pulled through due to extensive medical treatment. Casey was found to be over the legal alcohol limit for driving which the court heard was an aggravating factor in the collisions. With other young family members in the car, she overtook four vehicles waiting at a red traffic light and careered at speed around a corner The 34-year-old was sentenced at Cambridge Crown Court yesterday to 20 months in prison for causing serious injury by dangerous driving after pleading guilty. She was also disqualified from driving for three years and 10 months, as well as having to take an extended re-test. PC Edd Davidson-Smith said: 'This was a shocking incident where Casey has driven recklessly and has seriously injured one of her young relatives. 'The outcome was very close to being a fatality and at one point, the little girl was given six hours to live and it is only thanks to extensive medical treatment, she is alive today. 'I hope this sentence provides a warning to drivers out there who think it is acceptable to drive recklessly or once they have consumed alcohol. 'Casey put so many people at risk during this episode of thoughtless driving, so I am glad she has been jailed.' Joe Biden dropped the f-bomb in a rant to a small group of Democrat leaders after Special Counsel Robert Hur wrote in a bombshell report that the 'elderly' president couldn't remember when his son Beau died. The shocking details were included in Hur's 388-page report publicized Thursday into Biden's 'willful mishandling' of classified documents. According to the report, Biden could not remember when his son Beau died, 'even within a few years.' The president did not react well to the embarrassing details. He cussed in front of a handful of lawmakers ahead of his speech at the House Democrats' retreat in Virginia on Thursday, sources told the Associated Press. 'You think I would f***ing forget the day my son died?' Biden reportedly fumed. Beau Biden, the president's eldest son, died in 2015 of a brain tumor. He was 46 years old at the time of his death. Biden with his son Beau, who served as Attorney General of Delaware, at the Democratic National Convention in August 2008 Then-vice president Biden standing with his family near a hearst before the funeral for his son Beau on June 6, 2015. Beau Biden died of a brain tumor at the age of 46 While Hur said in the report that he would not press charges against Biden, the report gave a scathing description of an 81-year-old president with 'diminished faculties and a faulty memory.' Biden further lashed out at the characterization of his mental capabilities and claims about his son on Thursday night in a hastily announced press conference at the White House. 'How in the hell dare he raise that? Frankly, when I was asked the question, I thought to myself, "it was none of their damn business,"' Biden said of the special counsel. Biden appeared to get emotional when speaking about his son, noting he wore his son's rosary every day since Beau died. 'Every Memorial Day we hold a service remembering him, attended by friends and family and the people who loved him,' Biden told the room of reporters. 'I don't need anyone. I don't need anyone to remind me when he passed away.' Biden, speaking at the White House on Thursday, said he thought it was 'none of their damn business' when investigators asked about his son Beau in the classified documents probe Biden reportedly fumed about the classified doc report mention of him forgetting when his son died to a group of House Democrats before speaking to House Democrats in VA An image from the Biden classified documents report showing a damaged box where classified documents were found in the garage of President Biden in 2022 Throughout Biden's fiery remarks on Thursday, he continued to push back on special counsel's scathing description of his mental acuity, responding to a question at one point, 'my memory is fine.' Biden pointed out on Thursday that he had sat down for five hours of in-person interviews over two days for the investigation directly after the Hamas terror attack on Israel on October 7. "I was in the middle of handling an international crisis,' Biden said. The Republican-led House Oversight Committee is demanding to get transcripts of President Biden's interviews with Special Counsel Robert Hur that according to Hur's report contain a multitude of examples of his 'hazy' memory. Hur's inclusion of language in his report referring to the president as a 'well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory' proved politically explosive, and precipitated an angry press conference by the president Thursday night. Republicans are already getting mileage out of the material, saying it proves Biden isn't fit to run the country. Now, the committee chaired by Rep. James Comer (R-Ky.) is searching for more potentially damaging information. 'The Justice Department should immediately release the transcript from the Special Counsels interview with President Joe Biden,' the committee posted on X. Biden fumed at Special Counsel Robert Hur's accusation that the Scranton-native didn't know when his son Beau died 'The American people deserve transparency about President Bidens mental state,' Comer wrote. Comer is also demanding additional information from the Justice Department about sensitive materials found to be in Biden's possession, connecting it to the panel's ongoing impeachment probe. 'The Justice Department must provide Congress with unfettered access to these documents to determine if President Bidens retention of sensitive materials were used to help the Bidens influence peddling schemes,' he wrote. The box circled in the foreground contained documents about Afghanistan. The picture was taken in December 2022 in Biden's garage, with other household items House Oversight Committee chairman Rep. James Comer is demanding transcripts of President Joe Biden's interviews with Special Counsel Robert Hur's investigators in their classified documents probe Rubert Hur's report references Biden's 'fuzzy' memory The House Oversight Committee wants access to Biden's interview transcripts in the interest of 'transparency' The investigative push indicates Biden is continued to face lingering political challenges in the aftermath of Hur's probe, even as it announced that he would not be charged with any crimes related to his 'willful' retention of classified documents. Hur gave Biden's rival Donald Trump and Republicans plenty to work with even with out additional paper or transcripts. It said if Biden were to be charged, a jury might be sympathetic since he comes off as a 'well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory.' One particularly damaging passage that Hur included said: 'In his interview with our office, Mr. Biden's memory was worse. He did not remember when he was vice president, forgetting on the first day of the interview when his term ended ("if it was 2013 - when did I stop being Vice President?"), and forgetting on the second day of the interview when his term began ("in 2009, am I still Vice President?"),' according to the report. 'He did not remember, even within several years, when his son Beau died. And his memory appeared hazy when describing the Afghanistan debate that was once so important to him.' Biden erupted at that passage in a defiant press conference where he said his memory is 'fine.' 'There's even reference that I don't remember when my son died. How in the hell dare he raise that? I don't need anyone, I don't need anyone, to remind me of when he passed away,' the president told reporters. 'Frankly, when I was asked the question, I thought to myself, wasn't any of their damned business.' Asked about the 'elderly man' language, Biden said: 'I'm well meaning and I'm an elderly man, and I know what the hell I'm doing. I'm the president and I put this country back on its feet. I don't need his recommendation it's totally out of [order].' Biden's official response from his lawyers, included in the back of the Hur report, blasts the inclusion of 'highly prejudicial' language about his memory, and asks why other witnesses got a pass for 'fuzzy' memory lapses. It says it relies on 'highly prejudicial language' to describe memory lapses that are a 'common occurrence.' If faults Hur for even bringing up how Biden might defend himself before a jury since his report concluded he shouldn't be charged. A jealous former boyfriend who stabbed his ex-girlfriend's new partner to death has been found guilty alongside his friend who helped to kill him. Kaydon Prior, 23, screamed, 'I love you' to his ex, Alicia Parrin, while he stabbed Harrison Tomkins with a 16cm long hunting blade, on August 13 last year. Chichester Crown Court heard how he went into a jealous rage when he found Ms Parrin, 21, with Mr Tomkins, 25, and knifed him to death. He launched his murderous attack after bursting into her bedroom and ripping the duvet from the bed, the court was told. Prior pinned defenceless leisure centre lifeguard Harrison to the bed by his legs before stabbing him 10 times. Kaydon Prior (left), 23, and Jason Curtis (right), 22, were both found guilty for the murder of Harrison Tomkins, 25 Chichester Crown Court heard how Prior went into a jealous rage when he found his ex-girlfriend with Mr Tomkins (pictured) and knifed him to death on August 13 last year Alicia Parrin (pictured) was in a relationship with Kaydon Prior The court heard how Prior had refused to accept his relationship with Ms Parrin had ended. Prior and his friend Jason Curtis face life sentences after a jury found them both guilty today of murdering Mr Tomkins. There were gasps and screams from the public gallery when Curtis, 22, was also found guilty of murder despite not wielding the knife which killed Mr Tomkins. Curtis shook his head and rested it on the dock after the verdicts were delivered. Prior looked across at him and shrugged. Following a night out in London with best friend Curtis they went to Ms Parrin's flat in Crawley. Air conditioning fitter Curtis acted as lookout while Prior went back to his own apartment to collect keys to Ms Parrin's flat and the knife. He returned with the keys and the knife and carried out the horrific knifing. As he left the flat, Prior grabbed Ms Parrin by the hair and punched her and said: 'I should stab you too.' Prior tried to dismiss her screams coming from her flat as the sounds of good sex when he was confronted by neighbours. He phoned Ms Parrin twice after leaving her flat in bloodstained clothes as she was desperately calling 999. When emergency services arrived, Ms Parrin was covered in blood. A Met Police still of Kaydon Prior who launched a frenzied attack against Mr Tomkins Following a night out in London with best friend Curtis they went to Ms Parrin's flat in Crawley. Air conditioning fitter Curtis acted as lookout while Prior went back to his own apartment to collect keys to Ms Parrin's flat and the knife. He returned with the keys and the knife and carried out the horrific knifing. Pictured: CCTV image of Mr Tomkins As Prior left the flat, he grabbed Ms Parrin by the hair and punched her and said: 'I should stab you too.' Prior tried to dismiss her screams coming from her flat as the sounds of good sex when he was confronted by neighbours. Pictured: CCTV footage of Prior Prior phoned his ex-girlfriend twice after leaving her flat in bloodstained clothes as she was desperately calling 999. When emergency services arrived, she was covered in blood. Pictured: A screenshot of footage of Prior being arrested Ms Parrin described Prior as controlling and violent during their year long relationship and told police the obsessive neat freak was a drug dealer. The jury were shown harrowing images of her blood soaked bed and police body worn video of her moments after the attack. The jury found both men guilty of murder and having an offensive weapon. Prior was also found guilty of assaulting Ms Parrin. The court heard Prior had previous convictions for burglary and possession of drugs. They will be sentenced on April 23. Amateur boxer Mr Tomkins was described as tall, muscular and well loved. He worked with Ms Parrin at the K2 leisure centre in Crawley. Following conviction, Mr Tomkin's family issued a statement: 'As a family, we are pleased with this result and feel justice has been served. 'Harrison hasn't got a voice today, so we will speak on behalf of him. 'Firstly, we would like to thank Sussex Police and the Crown Prosecution Service for their fast-moving investigation, which has led to today's result. 'Thank you also to our Family Liaison Officers, the ambulance service, the numerous witnesses and the jury for reaching their verdict today. And to all our family and friends who have supported us through such a horrific time. 'Harrison was innocent in all of this, taken by surprise and killed as he laid in bed, with no time to defend himself. 'We knew our son and he didn't move in any of these circles or know this way of life. The ex-girlfriend described Prior as controlling and violent during their year long relationship and told police the obsessive neat freak was a drug dealer. Pictured: CCTV image of Curtis and Prior The jury were shown harrowing images of her blood soaked bed and police body worn video of her moments after the attack. Pictured: CCTV image of Prior The jury found both men guilty of murder and having an offensive weapon. Prior was also found guilty of assaulting Ms Parrin. Pictured: A screenshot of police body cam footage of one of the arrests 'We were an amazing family, completely content, loving, supportive and protective. Except in August last year our family was destroyed that fateful day - the day I could not protect my son. 'Harrison, our first born son and brother to his two adoring sisters was just the greatest, he saw the best in everyone he met. He was a lover of life. 'Nothing said or done can help justify this senseless loss of life. 'Going through this trial has been as traumatic as the day we were told Harrison had been killed. We have had to relive it all over again, while listening to Prior and Curtis' lies throughout. Air conditioning fitter Curtis (pictured) acted as lookout while Prior went back to his own apartment to collect keys to Ms Parrin's flat and the knife. Here he is pictured at the time of arrest Prior pictured being taken away by a police officer. He claimed the brutal murder was 'self-defence' A forensic officer at the scene of the gruesome attack. Police and paramedics were on the scene within minutes and performed emergency first aid 'Since the omission of any remorse and that my son was murdered whilst asleep, my only hope is they serve the maximum sentence possible. 'They have not just changed my life for the worse, but so many people from my family and close friends, and I have to ask 'was it worth it?' Case Officer Detective Police Constable Elliott Lander, of the Major Crime Team, said: 'I am pleased that we have been able to get the justice that Harrison richly deserves today. 'I never got to meet Harrison, but I have learned so much about him and have seen how greatly loved he was by all who knew him. 'Harrison was killed in a frenzied attack that he had no chance to defend himself from. Prior and Curtis will both rightly now have to live with the devastating consequences of their actions for a considerable period of their lives in prison. Mr Tomkin's family issued a statement after the verdict. Pictured: Mr Tomkins The court heard Prior had previous convictions for burglary and possession of drugs. Pictured: A screenshot of footage of one of the arrests They will be sentenced on April 23. Pictured: A screenshot of footage of one of the arrests A police officer stands in the door of the block of flats in Arthur Road, Crawley where the attack took place The family and loved ones of Mr Tomkins are pictured outside the Crown Court following the verdict The Crown Court in Chichester heard Prior had refused to accept his relationship with Alicia Parrin had ended Friends and family hold a picture of Mr Tomkins following the verdict at Chichester Crown Court 'On behalf of Harrison and all his family and friends, I'd like to thank those who came forward and supported our investigation.' Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector Emma Vickers, of the Major Crime Team, said: 'I echo Detective Police Constable Elliott Lander and would like to add how incredible Harrison's family have been throughout what has been a terrible time for them. 'I commend them for the way they have conducted themselves and their incredible bravery throughout the trial. 'This was a horrendous and unproved attack on a young man who had simply been on a night out enjoying himself. 'Justice has been served today and our thoughts very much remain with Harrison and his family during this incredibly distressing time.' A Michigan man has been convicted of vandalism and tampering of a national park after he redirected a river by hand, creating a channel that became 200 feet wide. With a shovel in tow, Andrew Howard, 63, from Frankfort, Michigan made his way to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The fisherman was spotted digging a new path and building a self-constructed damn from large rocks into the Platte River by a National park ranger. His construction eventually diverted the stream into Lake Michigan, creating a stream which grew 200 feet wide in a matter of days, according to the United States Attorney's Office. The new access to the river meant a huge flurry of fisherman could also take advantage of the new access to the river and its 'favorable' conditions. Calling the bodies of water 'natural gems', US Attorney Mark Totten described Howard's actions as very 'disturbing'. Andrew Howard, 63, was convicted of vandalism and tampering of a national park after he redirected a river by hand, creating a channel that became 200 feet wide (Pictured: Platte River after Howard's illegal diversion) With a shovel in tow, the fisherman was spotted by several witnesses to be digging a new channel after he failed to get access to the bay via his boat (pictured: the river before in May 2022) He wrote in a statement: 'The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and the Great Lakes are national gems, and my office takes preserving our natural treasures very seriously.' The National Park Service (NPS) looked into the allegations for months before the fisherman was eventually charged. The 63-year-old dammed the river after he was unable to access the bay with his boat, and once the estuary was deepened he nabbed a Coho salmon, Michigan Live reports. A park ranger also provided receipt for a shovel the fisherman purchased from a hardware near his home prior to the incident. A separate park ranger told the court that he witnessed Howard putting the shovel to use on the bay whilst assembling a heap of rocks - testimony which was also verified by other witnesses. The illegal 200-feet wide diversion remained as such for the following Summer and Fall, eventually reforming after 17 months. Pictures taken from a birds-eye view show the dramatic change in the river, which appears much deeper with a brand new stream into the lake. Howard is set to be sentenced on two counts of federal misdemeanors for tampering and vandalism of a national park on February 7, 2024. The maximum penalty he faces is six months in prison along with 5 years probation, a $5,000 fine and a mandatory restitution for diverting the river. Totten said: 'Mr. Howard had a policy dispute with the National Park Service and took matters into his own hands, breaking the law rather than using lawful means to advocate for his position. 'His actions resulted in significant financial and ecological harm and altered the landscape so many enjoyed.' The newly created path that allowed a large amount of fisherman to take advantage of the 'favorable conditions', according to assistant US Attorney Lauren Biksacky. When the diversion was initially created certain business owners, fishing groups and even state and local officials voiced their support for the better accessibility. Some maintained that the new channel was advantageous for the river, arguing the streams previous shallowness was a safety concern, obstructing access into Platte Bay for rescue boats, Michigan Live reports. The Park Service does not dredge the Platte River anymore, meaning a build up of sediment, sand, making it challenging for boats trying to access the body of water. The Platte River was previously dredged every autumn from 1968 until 2013, The Record Eagle reports The 63-year-old now faces up to six months in prison along with 5 years probation, a $5,000 fine and a mandatory restitution for diverting the river Since 2016, two people have died in the river - a teenager from Holt who drowned whilst swimming, and the other a 21-year-old who tragically passed away after his kayak was over-turned. Kyle Oor, owner of Riverside Canoe Trips told the publication: 'It would be nice for a rescue boat to be able to get out there in a timely fashion.' According to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) the NPS did not like the sediment that was left on the lake's coast as a result of the dredging. A 2016 report by the NPS stated that regularly adding layers prevented vegetation on the dunes. DNR maintained that the creation of the illegal channel benefited the river by reducing upstream water levels by a foot. Salmon advocates also stated that the diversion created by Howard made it easier for Coho salmon to make their way back to the river every year. A $500,000 NPS to eradicate dredging debris to create an ameliorated environment for the scarce piping plover bird was also put on hold. Police are offering a cash reward for information on the stolen hives, which are valued at $34,000 The robbery came during the Central Valley's most important season California beekeepers are in a sticky situations after nearly 100 beehives were stolen from an open field during the industry's prime time of year. A total of 96 beehives were taken from almond orchards in Fresno during the region's renowned almond blossom season. Out-of-state beekeepers rely on California beekeepers to take over their hives at this time of year to pollinate the crops because of the prime conditions in California's Central Valley. The hives were valued at $34,000 and the Fresno County Sheriff's Office is asking residents to look out for the prized stolen goods. Fresno police are offering a cash reward for anyone who can forward with information about the hives' location. California beekeepers are in a stick situations after nearly 100 beehives were stolen from an open field during the industry's prime time of year A total of 96 beehives were taken from almond orchards in Fresno during the region's renowned almond blossom season Out-of-state beekeepers rely on California beekeepers to take over their hives at this time of year to pollinate the crops because of the prime conditions in California's Central Valley South Dakota beekeepers own the hives, which disappeared between 5:30 pm on January 28 and and 4 pm on January 29. 'This type of crime consistently happens in Fresno County around January and February as beehives are set out for the almond bloom,' Fresno County Sheriff's Office spokesperson Tony Botti told ABC News. 'Unfortunately, it is usually someone else in the industry behind it since they are familiar with handling bees. 'They will strike at night when the bees [are] dormant or in the rain when they are not active.' The stolen hives are multicolored, appear like crats and are branded with the letters 'MEB,' the sheriff's office said. Hive theft is 'devastating' to beekeepers, Fresno County Farm Bureau CEO Ryan Jacobsen said. 'You're looking at hundreds and hundreds of dollars invested in that single hive, and you just don't make that up,' Jacobsen informed 'You don't just go buy another box, and all of a sudden have a colony.' Jacobsen described the beekeeping process as 'very extensive,' saying that it begins with finding a queen and then keeping a healthy hive for several years. Theft is such a threat to beekeepers that some are relying on GPS tracking to prevent people from steeling their hives. Hive theft is 'devastating' to beekeepers, Fresno County Farm Bureau CEO Ryan Jacobsen (pictured) said The hives were valued at $34,000 and the Fresno County Sheriff's Office is asking residents to look out for the prized stolen goods 'This type of crime consistently happens in Fresno County around January and February as beehives are set out for the almond bloom,' Fresno County Sheriff's Office spokesperson Tony Botti said 'Because of the high value of these hives and relative ruralness and remote areas that they're located, unfortunately the thefts are something that we deal with quite often,' Jacobsen said. 'This is the time of year where you should be seeing forklifts offloading hives into orchards, not necessarily putting them back onto a truck,' Botti said. 'So, keep your eyes peeled. If you see somebody loading bees onto a truck, call in law enforcement and let us go and check it out to make sure that it's legit.' Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the military to prepare a plan to evacuate the population of Rafah to defeat the remaining Hamas battalions. It came hours after U.S. President Joe Biden said that he considers Israel's conduct in the war to be 'over the top'. Netanyahu made the announcement on Friday ahead of an expected Israeli invasion of the southern Gaza town. 'It is impossible to achieve the goal of the war of eliminating Hamas by leaving four Hamas battalions in Rafah,' Netanyahu's office said. 'On the contrary, it is clear that intense activity in Rafah requires that civilians evacuate the areas of combat.' Netanyahu made the announcement on Friday following international criticism of Israel's plan to invade the crowded town on Egypt's border (File Photo) A picture taken from Rafah shows smoke billowing during Israeli bombardment over Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip on Friday Netanyahu said on Friday that a 'massive operation' is needed in Rafah. He said he asked security officials to present a 'double plan' that would include the evacuation of civilians and a military operation to 'collapse' remaining Hamas terrorist units. Israel says Rafah is the last remaining Hamas stronghold and it needs to send in troops to complete its war plan against the Islamic terrorist group. But an estimated 1.5 million Palestinians have crammed into the town after fleeing fighting elsewhere in Gaza. Israeli airstrikes struck the central Gaza Strip and the southern city of Rafah on the border with Egypt overnight into Friday, causing nearly two dozen fatalities including women and children, witnesses and hospital officials said. On Thursday, Biden rebuked Netanyahu at a press conference at the White House as he discussed a report on his mishandling of classified documents. He said he was trying to broker a longer ceasefire to get humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza, and push for the release of Hamas hostages. 'I'm of the view, as you know, that the conduct of the response in the Gaza Strip has been over the top,' the 81-year-old President said. 'I'm pushing very hard now to deal with this hostage ceasefire. I've been working tirelessly on this deal. 'I think if we can get the delay, the initial delay, I think we would be able to extend that so that we could increase the prospect that this fighting in Gaza changes.' Biden added that he was pushing for increased humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians and to get a temporary pause in place to allow the release of hostages taken by Hamas. He said: 'There are a lot of innocent people who are starving, a lot of innocent people who are in trouble and dying, and it's gotta stop.' U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken left Israel on Thursday as the divide grows between the two close allies on the way forward. He was visiting to press for a cease-fire deal in exchange for the release of dozens of Hamas-held hostages. More than half of Gaza's population of 2.3 million has been driven by Israel's military offensive toward the border with Egypt. Unable to leave the tiny Palestinian territory, many are living in makeshift tent camps or overflowing U.N.-run shelters. The Palestinian death toll from the war has surpassed 27,840 people, the Health Ministry in Gaza said. A quarter of Gaza's residents are starving. The war began with Hamas's assault into Israel on October 7, in which terrorists killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducted around 250. Hamas is still holding more than 130 hostages, but around 30 of them are believed to be dead. Netanyahu's announcement came hours after U.S. President Joe Biden said that he considers Israel's conduct in the war to be 'over the top' People assess the damage caused by Israeli bombardment in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip on Friday Smoke rises following Israeli bombardment on a position by the border between the Gaza Strip and Egypt in Rafah on Friday Palestinians children wait in line to receive food prepared by volunteers for Palestinian families displaced to Southern Gaza due to Israeli attacks, between rubbles of destroyed buildings in Rafah, Gaza on Friday Displaced Palestinians, who fled their houses due to Israeli strikes, take shelter in a tent camp at the border with Egypt, in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip, on Thursday Israel's stated intentions to expand its ground offensive to Rafah also prompted an unusual public backlash in Washington. 'We have yet to see any evidence of serious planning for such an operation,' Vedant Patel, a State Department spokesman, said on Thursday. Going ahead with such an offensive now, 'with no planning and little thought in an area where there is sheltering of a million people would be a disaster'. John Kirby, the National Security Council spokesperson, said an Israel ground offensive in Rafah is 'not something we would support'. The comments signalled intensifying U.S. friction with Netanyahu, who pushed a message of 'total victory' in the war this week. Aid agency officials also sounded warnings over the prospect of a Rafah offensive. 'We need Gaza's last remaining hospitals, shelters, markets and water systems to stay functional,' said Catherine Russell, head of the U.N. children's agency UNICEF. 'Without them, hunger and disease will skyrocket, taking more child lives.' With the war now in its fifth month, Israeli ground forces are still focusing on the city of Khan Younis, just north of Rafah, but Netanyahu has repeatedly said Rafah will be next, creating panic among hundreds of thousands of displaced people. Netanyahu's words have also alarmed Egypt, which has said that any ground operation in the Rafah area or mass displacement across the border would undermine its 40-year-old peace treaty with Israel. The mostly sealed Gaza-Egypt border is also the main entry point for humanitarian aid. Blitzer later assured fans that he was all right and would return to hosting soon Viewers could hear vomit-like sounds in the background after the host's feed was cut off CNN's 75-year-old anchor Wolf Blitzer was seen looking pale and retching on camera while hosting his show - forcing the channel to abruptly cut to a commercial break. Blitzer was on-air with House Oversight Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin (D., Md.) when he was seen uncomfortably swallowing and looking queasy as he attempted to avoid vomiting. The Situation Room host struggled to contain himself for a full minute before CNN cut Blitzer's feed and left Raskin to finish his final comments on his own. While Raskin continued with his remarks, vomit-like sounds could be heard in the background. CNN 's 75-year-old anchor Wolf Blitzer was on-air with House Oversight Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin (D., Md.) when he was seen uncomfortably swallowing and looking queasy as he attempted to avoid vomiting The Situation Room host struggled to contain himself for a full minute before CNN cut Blitzer's feed and left Raskin to finish his full comments on his own Right before Raskin's segment could end, CNN quickly jumped into a commercial. As the commercial ended, CNN chief legal affairs correspondent Paula Reid appeared on screen and told viewers that Blitzer would soon return. 'Wolf had to step away, he'll be back,' she said. However, Blitzer did not return to host the remainder of the show. CNN later told The Washington Post: 'Wolf wasn't feeling 100 percent while anchoring Thursday night.' Blitzer has been hosting The Situation Room for 18 out of the 33 years he has been associated with CNN CNN later said: 'Wolf wasn't feeling 100 percent while anchoring Thursday night' Worried fans soon began to enquire about Blitzer's health on social media and the anchor confirmed he was better on X. 'Im fine! Thanks for the well wishes. Ill see you back in the Situation Room soon,' the political host tweeted. Blitzer has been hosting The Situation Room for 18 out of the 33 years he has been associated with CNN. In 2016, he also served as moderator for the CNN Republican Presidential Primary Debates in Las Vegas, Nevada, and in Houston, Texas. The Conservatives' core vote is leaking away in the run-up to the election with just a quarter of pensioners planning to back the party, a new poll suggests. Just 26 per cent of over-65s say they plan to vote for the Tories at the next election, according to a super-poll of 5,000 people by Redfield & Wilton Strategies. This is down from an estimated 60 per cent who backed the party under Boris Johnson at the 2019 election. Some 32 per cent of pensioners now plan to vote Labour, giving Sir Keir a lead over Rishi Sunak in every age group of eligible voters. But in a sign that is likely to cause more concern at CCHQ, there was a marked surge in support among pensioner for the Reform Party when he sacked Suella Braverman as Home Secretary last year. It suggests that a sizeable chunk of right-leaning pensioners are drifting away from the Tories, with the small boats crisis and deportation flights to Rwanda the latest trigger. The party has not had the support of more than 50 per cent of pensioners since the resignation of Owen Paterson over lobbying in 2021. Just 26 per cent of over-65s say they plan to vote for the Tories at the next election, according to a subset of a super-poll of 5,000 people by Redfield & Wilton Strategies. Some 32 per cent of pensioners now plan to vote Labour, giving Sir Keir a lead over Rishi Sunak in every age group of eligible voters. Mountain to climb: in a sign that is likely to cause more concern at CCHQ, there was a marked surge in support among pensioner for the Reform Party when Rishi Sunak (pictured top and above today in Plymouth) sacked Suella Braverman as Home Secretary last year. Mr Sunak was on the second day of a two-day visit to the South West today, visiting Plymouth with Veterans Minister Johnny Mercer, who is one of two MPs in the city. The PM was grilled on potholes and the lack of NHS dental care during an appearance on BBC Radio Devon. He acknowledged it would be an 'important' area in the next general election. Pressed on claims Government funding to fix potholes is only a 'drop in the ocean', Mr Sunak said: 'Well, I think the numbers I've got show that it's growing next year. 'And that's why we have to make priorities and decisions right. Obviously, I think everyone knows there isn't a bottomless pit for these things.' He also brushed off criticism of his dental plan from the British Dental Association, telling the station: 'Everyone will have their views, I'm confident that it will make a difference. 'It's a significant amount of money. It's two-and-a-half million appointments, which will take us back to pre-Covid levels.' Later he defended Government support for local councils as he faced questions about the precarious financial situation facing Somerset Council, which needs to find 100 million to avoid going effectively bankrupt. The Prime Minister told BBC Radio Somerset the local council should manage its finances and 'get on and deliver for people'. He told the station: 'We have increased the funding for local councils across the country by about 600 million recently, which will mean on average councils will have about 7.5 per cent more money to spend this next year than they did last year. 'Some of that money is dedicated specifically for rural counties like Somerset, where it's harder to provide services in rural areas, which we acknowledge. 'But it's also important that councils manage the cost of living for their residents, and councils that are asking the Government to just allow them to whack in incredibly high council tax rises is not right. 'And that's why we have referendum precepts. If councils want to do that they can obviously ask their residents to give them the authority to put in excessive council tax rises, but we strike the balance between councils raising the money they need, but making sure they don't unnecessarily burden people, and that's what we've done.' He added: 'Ultimately they should manage the finances - we put 600 million more in, and it's right that they get on and deliver for people.' This is the horrifying moment an Asda security guard was knocked down in a hit-and-run following an altercation between customers in the supermarket car park. The incident was caught on camera outside an Asda in Wallsend, Newcastle, yesterday. Supermarket staff members appeared to be trying to break up a verbal disagreement between a group of people, when suddenly an Audi driver rammed into a car before driving straight into a female security guard. The security guard is seen on the bonnet of the Audi before later she is attended to on the ground. Meanwhile, a couple of people are seen jumping into the Audi before it drives off. Police told MailOnline they were called to a verbal disagreement between a group of people at around 1.15pm on Thursday. They said: 'Another person has then attempted to intervene when, for reasons yet to be established, they were struck by a car causing a serious leg injury.' This is the horrifying moment an Asda security guard was knocked down in a hit-and-run following an altercation between customers in the supermarket car park The driver left the scene before police arrived. A 36-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm and remains in custody. The video is filmed from the window of an adjacent building, and screams are heard from observers as the incident unfolds. In the clip it appears that a customer has left their car in the middle of the road with its door open amid the argument. Asda staff - two men and a woman - come between the disgruntled customers. Just as the brawl appears to be calming down a grey Audi suddenly comes into frame and rams into the blue car that's been left in the middle of the road. The force of the impact slams the driver's side door shut and knocks its wing mirror off. A 36-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm and remains in custody The Audi driver then slams into the Asda staff member who is attempting to block their path. Screams erupt from the crowd and the man recording the video shouts: 'F***ing hell.' The Audi driver then stops a little further along the car park as two people climb into the car. People also begin to surround the woman who was hit to offer aid as she lies sprawled on the floor. The Audi makes its escape as people continue to exclaim in shock. The footage was shared to social media on Thursday captioned: 'Wallsend, UK.' It has since received dozens of comments from stunned viewers. A Northumbria Police spokesperson told MailOnline: 'Shortly after 1.15pm on Thursday (February 8), we received a report of a disturbance in the car park of a premises on Hadrian Road in Wallsend. 'Emergency services attended the scene where it was reported that a group of people had been involved in a verbal disagreement. 'Another person has then attempted to intervene when, for reasons yet to be established, they were struck by a car causing a serious leg injury. 'The driver of the car has then left the scene before police arrival. 'An investigation has been launched and a 36-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm. She remains in police custody at this time. 'Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information is asked to get in touch using the 'Report' page of our website or by calling 101 quoting reference number: NP-20240208-0409. 'Officers are especially keen to hear from anyone who may have CCTV, dashcam or mobile phone footage of this incident.' An Asda spokesperson added: 'We are aware of an incident which occurred at our Wallsend store. We do not tolerate any form of violence or abuse towards our colleagues and we are working closely with the police in their inquiries.' A former Oakland police chief has launched a scathing lawsuit against the crime-ridden California city after the new mayor sacked him from his post last year. LeRonne Armstrong has accused the city and Mayor Sheng Thao of 'illegal and retaliatory' termination in a lawsuit filed in Alameda County Superior Court on Monday. Thao, in one of her first actions as mayor, fired Armstrong in February 2023 after a probe ordered by a federal oversight monitor found he mishandled two police misconduct cases. An arbitrator later cleared him of wrongdoing. She said she was terminating his employment 'without cause', allowing him to be paid severance, and said she was 'troubled' by statements he made in defense of the accused officers, the San Francisco Chronicle reported. She claimed he also denied the misconduct cases reflected systemic problems within the police department. Armstrong, whose attorney claimed he was 'fired because he spoke out about the misconduct of a high ranking official', is now seeking reinstatement as police chief. His complaint was filed just days before Governor Gavin Newsom announced his plan to send prosecutors and California Highway Patrol officers to Oakland to assist with targeted crackdowns on rising crime in the San Francisco Bay Area city. Former Oakland police chief LeRonne Armstrong, pictured in February last year, has accused the city and Mayor Sheng Thao of 'illegal and retaliatory' termination in a lawsuit filed in Alameda County Superior Court on Monday Mayor Sheng Thao, pictured in October 2023, fired Armstrong last February after a probe ordered by a federal oversight monitor found he mishandled two police misconduct cases. An arbitrator later cleared him of wrongdoing Rising crime in Oakland has been drawing national attention as brazen robberies are carried out in broad daylight. Pictured: An armed robbery in broad daylight at the 7-Eleven parking lot in Oakland's Grand Lake neighborhood in November last year Thao, when firing Armstrong last February, that she had lost confidence in the police chief after he and the department failed to properly investigate and discipline a sergeant who was involved in a hit-and-run with his patrol car and who, in a separate incident, fired his service weapon inside an elevator at police headquarters. But Armstrong in his complaint alleged he was unlawfully terminated in retaliation for criticizing the federal court-appointed monitor overseeing the department. He claimed Thao was intimidated by the the monitor and fired him after buckling to pressure from the authority. 'This is an unusual wrongful termination case,' the suit alleged. 'The city's sole decision-maker (Mayor Thao) has repeatedly and publicly explained her reasons for the unlawful termination - and those reasons are illegal and retaliatory on their face.' His attorney Will Edelman characterized Armstrong as a 'whistleblower', telling the Chronicle he was fired for speaking out against the monitor. Oakland's police department has been under federal oversight since 2003 after a rookie officer came forward to report abuse of power by a group of officers known as the Oakland 'Riders.' The case resulted in the department being required to enact more than four dozen reform measures and report its progress to an outside monitor and a federal judge. In his complaint, Armstrong says the department had made great strides and was on track to regain its independence when the federal monitor said there were problems with police leadership and ordered the outside investigation into the sergeant. Armstrong says the monitor and his team 'transformed routine instances of lower-level misconduct into a complete indictment' of the department and chief. Thao's office on Wednesday referred requests for comment to the city attorney's office, which said in a statement that it had not been served with the complaint. Oakland has been without a permanent police chief since Armstrong's firing, even as violent crime, robbery and vehicle theft climbed in the city of 400,000. Pictured: Police investigate a multiple shooting and homicide at a gas station in Oakland in January 2023 Last month, In-N-Out Burger announced it will close its first location in its 75-year history due to car break-ins, property damage, theft and robberies at its only restaurant in Oakland. Pictured are police outside the restaurant in January 2024 Signs outside the In-N-Out Burger in Oakland warned of theft, amid a surge in robberies Shoppers at the Apple Store on Bay Street in Oakland, California, stood idly by and watched as a masked male pulled 49 iPhones off their security chords and shoved them in his pants Oakland has been without a permanent police chief since Armstrong's firing, even as violent crime, robbery and vehicle theft climbed in the city of 400,000. Preliminary data shows that crime rose in Oakland last year, despite falling in other California urban centers, Newsom's office said. Earlier this week a bold thief casually ripped a whole display of iPhones off the shelves at the Apple Store on Bay Street in Oakland. Shoppers stood idly by and watched as a masked male pulled 49 iPhones off their security chords and shoved them in his pants. Last month, In-N-Out Burger announced it will close its first location in its 75-year history due to car break-ins, property damage, theft and robberies at its only restaurant in Oakland. Newsom on Tuesday announced he would deploy 120 California Highway Patrol city as brazen robberies in broad daylight have continued to draw national attention. The governor on Thursday revealed he would be sending more prosecutors to the area to help with targeted crime crackdowns. The additional deputy attorneys general from the California Department of Justice and attorneys from the California National Guard would help Alameda County prosecute suspects arrested for serious and complex crimes, Newsom said. He didn't say how many prosecutors would be sent or when. It comes as car break-ins where the thieves use a car-escape tool to tap a glass window and silently shatter it and then steal belongings left inside the car have become so commonplace in the Bay Area that the criminal activity has its own verb: 'bipping' a car. Some thieves have 'bipped' cars in broad daylight with occupants in them. Governor Gavin Newsom, pictured last month, has announced his plan to send prosecutors and California Highway Patrol officers to Oakland to assist with targeted crackdowns on rising crime in the San Francisco Bay Area city 'An arrest isn't enough,' Newsom said in a statement. 'Justice demands that suspects are appropriately prosecuted. Whether it's "bipping" or carjacking, attempted murder or fentanyl trafficking, individuals must be held accountable for their crimes using the full and appropriate weight of the law.' But Alameda County Public Defender Brendon Woods called Newsom's plan 'a band-aid to fix a broken arm.' 'More prosecution and more police is not the solution here,' Woods said in a statement. 'We need housing, money for community-based organizations, higher wages, employment, as well as money for our schools, medical care and mental health.' Woods said California has tried increased prosecution and harsher sentences and that led to mass incarceration and severe prison overcrowding. 'We can't keep doing this over and over,' Woods said. 'We need different solutions.' She said rather than seek medical attention, they went to a drive-thru Burger King before buying heroin and crack Harmony Montgomery's stepmother admitted in callous testimony that she and the five-year-old's father Adam ate Burger King and took heroin rather than check on the child after he allegedly fatally punched her in the head. Kayla Montgomery took the stand Friday to testify against her estranged husband, the day after his defense used their opening statement to blame the child's death on her. She detailed Harmony's tragic final moments, claiming Adam delivered a fatal blow by punching her in the head, before saying: 'I think I really hurt her. I felt something.' Rather than seek urgent medical help, Kayla said they got drive-thru fast food and bought heroin and crack while Harmony groaned in pain in the backseat. Harmony's mother Crystal Sorey wept from the witness box as Kayla gave the clearest picture yet of the alleged murder that shocked the nation. Kayla Montgomery took the stand Friday to testify over the death of Harmony Montgomery, claiming her estranged husband Adam fatally punched the child in the head Harmony vanished in December 2019, however her disappearance was only realized by authorities in November 2021 Adam Montgomery stuck his tongue out and grinned as his murder trial begun with jury selection on Tuesday. On Friday, his estranged wife testified that he systematically moved her remains The stepmother, who is currently serving an 18-month sentence for perjury after lying to investigators, is a key witness for the prosecution as she was the only adult to allegedly witness Harmony's final moments. On Thursday, Adam's defense attempted to cast her as an unreliable witness with a track record of lying, claiming she was testifying 'not for truth, not for Harmony, but for Kayla.' Her perjury offense came as she lied about working a shift at Dunkin' Donuts on the day she said she last saw Harmony alive, reports Law and Crime. She was caught in the lie after investigators looked at her employment records, and she pleaded guilty to perjury in exchange for a plea deal - which included testifying against Adam. In her testimony on Friday, she said Adam mercilessly beat Harmony in the backseat of their car after she accidentally wet herself in the vehicle, which they had been living in after they were recently evicted. She said he 'kept punching her' on the way to Burger King, pausing at several stop lights to reach behind him and punch her in the head again. 'Adam kept saying, shut the f*** up, stop crying,' she said, adding that when she tried to stop him, he gave her an 'evil crazy eyes look' that scared her off. 'That was one of the first times I saw him look at me like that. But not the last,' she continued. She said her two sons in the car with them, aged 11-months and 2-years-old at the time, had 'no idea' of the horror unfolding in the car next to them. After allegedly delivering the fatal blow, Kayla said they got Burker King for themselves and her two young sons in the car, but not Harmony. She claimed Adam had covered Harmony in a blanket, but was still making a 'moaning noise' before eventually falling silent. Prosecutors claim Adam fatally beat Harmony to death after she had a bathroom accident in a car they were living in after their eviction Montgomery is currently serving 30 years in prison for firearms offenses, but now faces charges of second-degree murder, assault, witness tampering, falsifying physical evidence, and abuse of a corpse. Earlier in the trial, his attorney acknowledged his guilt on the lesser charges of falsifying physical evidence and abuse of a corpse, but denies murdering Harmony When asked why neither parent checked on the severely injured child, she claimed she was too afraid - but admitted to quickly getting drugs instead. Kayla said they drove to a nearby apartment and stopped for around 15 minutes to buy heroin and crack, but their car broke down as they drove away. After Adam failed to restart the vehicle and couldn't get a jump, they were forced to abandon the car. At that point, Kayla claimed they realized Harmony was dead. 'Adam tried to wake her,' she said, adding he 'kept saying, baby girl,' trying to nudge her back into consciousness. She broke down on the stand as she continued to testify over the tragic death, claiming Adam stuffed her body into a duffle bag before they took her sons back to their apartment. Earlier in his trial, Adam's defense attorney acknowledged his guilt on lesser charges of falsifying physical evidence and abusing a corpse, but claimed only Kayla 'alone' knows how Harmony died. She testified that he systematically moved her remains to avoid detection. Harmony's body has never been found. He then allegedly stored the duffle bag in a snow bank near a dumpster, leaving her body there while they got a ride back to their broken down car to retrieve their things. After then placing her body in an Audi loaned to them by a friend for several nights, Harmony was then moved under a porch at Kayla's aunt's home in Manchester, New Hampshire, Kayla alleged. Montgomery allegedly repeatedly punched Harmony after she wet herself in a grey sedan (stock image) that they had been living in following their eviction After their car broke down, Kayla testified that Harmony's body was transferred to a blue Audi that a friend loaned them, where she remained for several days Harmony's remains have never been found Adam then moved the duffle bag into a cooler, and identified a red cooler that was on the porch of her mother's hallway while on the stand. He allegedly stuffed her in the cooler tight so she would fit, where she remained for several weeks, Kayla said. She said she saw the cooler with her stepdaughter inside every day while at her mother's home, until weeks later they moved to a Families in Transition Shelter, where Harmony was moved into the ceiling. Jurors were reportedly 'grim faced' as prosecutors brought out images of the small vent where Harmony remained for over a month, according to court reporter Bob Ward. 'You could smell a horrible smell and it was coming from the vent,' she said, adding he allegedly moved her to a bathroom when a maintenance worker arrived. In grisly testimony over how Harmony's body slowly decomposed, she said her next location was a diaper bag, which he 'squished her into.' She said his plan for disposing of the body was to use lime to break her remains down and then dismember her, but before he did Kayla said he ordered her to bring the diaper bag with Harmony inside to his work at Portland Pie. He put the remains in the company's freezer, she said, so there 'wouldn't be any fluids or anything leaking.' Kayla is separately facing charges for allegedly collecting thousands of dollars in food stamps under Harmony's name after her death, and she testified that they kept Harmony on their tax returns that year to give the impression she had been alive. His plans to dismember Harmony allegedly then fell on using a saw, while he also considered using a Nutri Bullet blender, saying it would 'be good to use to help get rid of her.' Crystal Sorey (right) - Harmony's biological mother - lost custody of the young girl in 2018 because of her drug addiction. As Kayla testified on Friday, she reportedly wept from the witness box After removing her from the freezer, Adam's alleged attempts to de-thaw his daughter included running her under the shower, before putting her into a bag of lime inside a bathtub. 'I saw Harmony in the bathtub... the same way she was left in the bag when we took her out of the car. She was a layer of skin and bone, bruised up,' she said. Insisting she was acting out of fear, Kayla said she helped to cut the clothes off the dead child, but 'left the bathroom to check on the kids' as she 'couldn't stay in (the bathroom) anymore.' 'I couldn't handle it,' she said. 'Adam was with Harmony's body for a few hours.' Fearing he could face consequences for the grisly death, Adam was allegedly intent on destroying all evidence, and turned to using a rented U-Haul van to store the left of her remains in the diaper bag. As he allegedly left with the U-Haul in the middle of the night, Kayla said he 'didn't tell me what he was doing, but I knew.' 'He said he wasn't telling me where, so if cops got involved, I wouldn't be able to tell where Harmony's body is,' she said. When he returned, he no longer had the bag with Harmony's remains, she said - before flying into a frenzy and punching her in the head several times. Kayla also alleged that he beat her during the time he was disposing of the body, out of a paranoid belief she was already talking to the police. Adam's alleged paranoia also extended to fearing there were hidden cameras and listening devices in his home, and threatened to have a relative kill her and hide her body too if she told anyone about the alleged murder. Saturday Night Live star Colin Jost has been selected as the featured entertainer at the annual dinner of the White House Correspondents' Association this year. Jost, the co-host of SNL's 'Weekend Update' and husband of actress Scarlett Johansson, will get a chance to roast leading political and media figures at the event in April. 'His smart brand of comedy and keen observation will turn up the heat on the national news media and across the political spectrum,' said Kelly ODonnell, president of the White House Correspondents' Association. 'His sharp insights perfectly meet this remarkable time of divided politics, and a presidential campaign careening toward a rematch,' said O'Donnell, who is also Senior White House Correspondent for NBC News. Jost, the co-host of SNL's 'Weekend Update' and husband of actress Scarlett Johansson, will host the annual dinner of the White House Correspondents Association this year A writer and comedic performer, Jost has written for the long-running NBC late night comedy franchise since 2005. Jost began co-anchoring the show's 'Weekend Update' news parody in 2014 with co-anchor Michael Che. His film credits include 'Coming 2 America' and 'Tom & Jerry.' He is also the author of the memoir 'A Very Punchable Face.' Jost, 41, grew up in the New York City borough of Staten Island and graduated from Harvard University, where he was dormmates with now Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. The US president and first lady traditionally attend the WHCA dinner, as do senior government officials and members of the press corps with the proceeds from the night helping to fund scholarships for journalism students. Since the annual dinner began in 1921, every president has attended at least once, with the exception of Donald Trump. Jost began co-anchoring SNL's 'Weekend Update' news parody in 2014 with co-anchor Michael Che. His film credits include 'Coming 2 America' and 'Tom & Jerry.' In 2018, featured entertainer Michelle Wolf raised eyebrows with a withering monologue trashing the Trump administration. The roast was so risque that C-SPAN radio cut the feed midway through, fearing it might violate FCC indecency guidelines. Amid backlash from some members, the association pivoted away from comedy and invited historian Ron Chernow as the featured speaker in 2019. After a two-year pandemic hiatus, the roast format returned in 2022, with Trevor Noah, the former Daily Show host, as the featured entertainer. Last year, stand-up comedian and Daily Show correspondent Roy Wood Jr. hosted the dinner. An Afghan refugee stripped of his British citizenship after being accused of being a Russian spy said the case against him was complete fantasy, a hearing was told today. The alleged spy, known only as C2, is accused of spying for Russian military intelligence agency GRU. He worked for GCHQ and MI6, meeting King Charles and Prince William while in Afghanistan working for the British government. C2 had spent six years in Russia after leaving Afghanistan following the outbreak of civil war in 1992. He came to the UK in 2000 and applied for asylum claiming he had come straight from Afghanistan. He began working as an interpreter for police and courts before studying politics and intelligence and securities services and gaining employment with UK intelligence agencies. The alleged spy known as C2, who also claims to have worked for the Foreign Office, the Ministry of Defence and GCHQ, is said to have gained access to 'top secret' documents (Pictured: Aerial view of GCHQ) In 2019 he was stripped of his British citizenship and kicked out of the country because MI5 believed he was an agent for the GRU, the Russian military intelligence agency In the late 2000s he went back to Afghanistan to work for the UK Foreign Office, before leaving to work for the Afghan government and then going into the oil industry. He was stripped of his British citizenship in 2019 after MI5 concluded he was an agent for Russian military intelligence. He denies being an agent or that he poses any risk to the national security of the United Kingdom and is appealing against the decision to strip him of citizenship. C2 is appealing against the governments decision to strip him of his British citizenship in a hearing before the Special Immigration Appeals Commission (SIAC) in central London. In his closing submissions, Robert Palmer, KC, representing C2, said his client had put forward a full and substantive case while the government had put forward the bare minimum in public. He said C2 was disadvantaged as the court had heard most of the evidence in private and C2 has not heard it. He has only been told he is or was assessed to be an agent of the GRU. Even the broad gist that we have been given doesnt tell us what it is that C2 is alleged to have done. C2 returned to the UK in one of the last flights out of Kabul during the Taliban takeover in 2021 It tells us he is alleged to have had some formal relationship with the GRU and been responsive to them in some unspecified fashion. C2 accepts he has spoken to Russian intelligence officials and swapped messages with them during his working life. Even on C2s best efforts to recall and explain anything which might have given rise to any impression on the part of the security services that he had some kind of formal relationship there is nothing else he can lay a hand on in terms of what the security service has in mind. He doesnt know what the target is he must shoot at and has responded by giving the fullest possible account of his life story including any contact with Russians and any representatives of the Russian state. C2 has accepted he lied in his asylum application when he arrived in the UK, exaggerating the danger he faced and claiming he had come straight from Afghanistan when he actually spent six years in Russia.ite security services warning of risks if he re-entered the UK Mr Palmer said: Just because he was content to exaggerate the danger in Afghanistan on his arrival in the UK- like many- doesnt mean his honesty overall is impugned. He said he had made a very positive contribution to the UK in his work since. Mr Palmer said the suggestion C2 had been a GRU agent since the age of five, or since before his arrival in the UK was completely implausible. He said C2 would not have left the UK for Afghanistan, then left the foreign office, and then left the Afghan government to work in the private sector if he was spy. Why would a man trained from childhood establish a role at the heart of UK intelligence in GCHQ and subsequently the Foreign Office then leave that position and go and live in Afghanistan? Even assuming his new role was seen as valuable why would he leave again to work in the private sector? He was private individual seeking to progress his career in interesting work and make money. Mr Palmer said the idea C2 could have been identified by the GRU before 9/11 as someone who could establish a role in the British government and then be deployed in Afghanistan was complete fantasy. C2 accepted a Russian agent made him a fake Russian passport before he came to the UK to seek asylum. He said he did not know how the agent obtained the fake passport or whether he had links to Russian Intelligence services. The spy met Prince Charles and Prince William on visits to Afghanistan while working for the Foreign Office in the late 2000s Mr Palmer said he was carrying out: Work of great important and sensitivity at great personal risk. He said it was no surprise C2 took a leading role in relations with Russia when working for the Afghan Ministry of Commerce as he had Russian language skills and spent time there. C2 had six trips to Russia and had frequent meetings and dinner parties with officials. He continued his contact with Russia in his private work in the oil industry. Mr Palmer said: Russia was one of the main providers of fuel in Afghanistan and C2s work required regular contact with Russians. He said C2 accepted that fuel is a dirty business and he had routinely had to pay bribes on behalf of his employer. C2 worked under former British prime ministers Gordon Brown and David Cameron. He also met Prince Charles and Prince William when he made visits to Afghanistan while working for the Foreign Office in the late 2000s. Mr Palmer asked the judge, Mr Justice Jay, to make a factual finding that C2 is not and was not a GRU agent and allow his appeal. The hearing continues with judgement expected to be deferred to a later date. Members of the ruthless Venezuelan migrant moped gang that terrorized New York City women by stealing their phones and jewelry on the sidewalk have appeared in court. The migrants who allegedly stole wallets and cellphones from at least 62 women appeared in Manhattan Criminal Court on Thursday. Luis Tovar Pacheco, Alvaro Martinez and Cleyber Andrade were among those charged. Andrade, 20, was arraigned and held on $10,000 bail after he was found to be linked to 62 different incidents. Martinez was also arraigned on Grand Larceny charges alongside Roxanna Sahos, 24, another member of the gang who was charged with tampering with evidence and Alexander Dayker, 20, charged with criminal possession of stolen property. Cleyber Andrade is arraigned in Manhattan Criminal court after he was arrested for being part of an immigrant gang Alvaro Martinez was also arraigned on Grand Larceny charges Juan Uzcatgui, 23, was charged with 20 grand larcenies on Monday Juan Uzcatugi, 23, was charged with 20 grand larcenies, according to WABC. The pair were seen walking out of the 1st precinct in Manhattan on Monday. Pacheco and Martinez were discovered after a domestic violence complaint at Pacheco's address, police sources told The New York Post. Shocking footage of one of the thefts shows a woman being dragged by a moped by thieves trying to steal her phone. Police arrested at least seven migrants, all believed to be from Venezuela, in a safe house in the Bronx after executing a search warrant. Police believe the gang is led by Venezuelan ringleader Victor Parra, 30, who had a tech guy hack the phones, use the devices to make fraudulent purchases and clear out victim's bank accounts before sending them to Colombia. 'Like you saw with yesterdays [robbery ring bust] where the proceeds are being shipped to Miami, Houston and eventually Colombia theyre a little more sophisticated in that theyre hacking into the phones, stealing peoples banking records,' NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said. Kenny added the gangs were able to gain access to people's Venmo, Zelle and other money transfer accounts before making purchases, transfer money to other accounts or withdraw cash. Once the accounts are wiped clean, they then ship the phones overseas and sell them, Kenny said. One of the gang members is seen dragging a 52-year-old woman he Sheepshead Bay section of Brooklyn last month. They reportedly stole her bag, phone, credit cards, keys, glasses, $60 cash and her ID Police believe the gang members used hackers to to breach banking apps on stolen phones, before they drained the accounts and ship the phones overseas to sell Two of the migrants, Andrade Cleyber, 20, and Juan Uzcatgui, 23, were walked out of the 1st precinct in Manhattan on Monday. Cleyber was charged with 25 grand larcenies and Uzcatugi was charged with 20 On Tuesday, one the gang members, Cleyber Andrade, 20, was arraigned in Manhattan criminal court and held on $10,000 bail after he was found to be linked to 62 different occurrences. Andrade was charged with 25 grand larcenies and Juan Uzcatugi, 23, was charged with 20 grand larcenies, according to WABC. The pair were seen walking out of the 1st precinct in Manhattan on Monday. Roxanna Sahos, 24, was charged with tampering with evidence and Alexander Dayker, 20, was charged with criminal possession of stolen property. One of the most shocking thefts involved a migrant on a moped dragged a 52-year-old woman along a Big Apple street to steal her phone - a robbery caught on surveillance footage. The scooter thief reportedly stole her bag, phone, credit cards, keys, glasses, $60 cash and her ID last month in the Sheepshead Bay section of Brooklyn. Police are still on the hunt for Perra who is believed to have entered the US sometime in 2023 and was freed on bail in December after being charged with grand larceny. 'This isn't about the migrants and asylum seekers, this is about those who break the law' Mayor Eric Adam said at a press conference about the gang crime Mayor Eric Adams went along for the sting operation wearing a $700 Fendi scarf under a bulletproof police vest and later appeared at a press conference with police NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said the scooter drivers were paid $100 a day and the phone snatchers were paid between $300-$600 per phone. 'These perpetrators are part of a sophisticated criminal enterprise made up of immigrants who have recently arrived in the United States,' said Kenny. 'This network of thieves predominantly lives in the migrant shelter system.' NYPD Commissioner Eddie Caban said, 'Theyre essentially ghost criminals.' Mayor Eric Adams went along for the sting operation wearing a $700 Fendi scarf under a bulletproof police vest and later appeared at a press conference with police. 'This isn't about the migrants and asylum seekers, this is about those who break the law. It doesn't matter where you're from and where you came from,' the Democrat said at a press conference about gang crime on Monday. The Northeast braces for massive winter storms, with experts saying some could mimic 'Snowmaggedon' of 2010 and won't rule out a bombogenesis. Weather forecasters are tracking a massive winter storm that may touch down in the northeast right in time for Valentines Day. The polar vortex is expected to weaken, unleashing a cold blast across the US, with the possibility of a 'bombogenesis,' known as a bomb cyclone, that occurs when a cold air mass collides with a warm air mass, like air or ocean waters. While forecasters are favoring a mix of rain and snow for some areas along the Atlantic Coast Monday night, they are struggling to pin down the specific impacts of the winter storm and determine exact snow amounts. 'We're tracking the potential for an impactful winter storm across the Northeast, likely from late Monday into Tuesday,' AccuWeather meteorologist Isaac Longley told the Boston Herald on Thursday. It's unclear exactly how many inches to expect - but forecasters predict a 'fairly widespread swath' of moderate-to-heavy snow from Pennsylvania to Massachusetts through Tuesday New York has only seen a measly 2.3 inches of snow this season, but some forecasters are predicting the possibility of another 15 inches New York has only seen a measly 2.3 inches of snow this season, but some forecasters are predicting the possibility of another 15 inches (Pictured: Children and adults sled in Brooklyn's Prospect Park on a cold winter afternoon on Jan. 21, 2024) 'There is a lack of cold air, so the system could bring a mix of rain and snow closest to the coast, while there could be more significant snow across the inland and higher terrain,' he added. New York has only seen a measly 2.3 inches of snow this season, but some forecasters are predicting the possibility of another 15 inches. According to the mid-winter forecast by FOX 5 NY's Nick Gregory, this could happen if just one or two 'decent' size storms touch down this winter. FOX Forecast Center predicts the storm may initially begin as rain along the Atlantic Coast Monday night, before it strengthens from rain to snow as the temperature gets colder. It's unclear exactly how many inches New York can expect - but forecasters predict a 'fairly widespread swath' of moderate-to-heavy snow from Pennsylvania to Massachusetts through Tuesday. 'I think winter will be prolonged here, and I do think that we'll probably have a good surge of cold weather coming in the middle part of February, [creating the potential for a snow storm or two,' Gregory said. Weather forecasters are tracking a massive winter storm that may touch down in the northeast right in time for Valentines Day FOX Forecast Center predicts the storm may initially begin as rain along the Atlantic Coast Monday night, before it strengthens from rain to snow as the temperature gets colder (Pictured: Boston, Jan 2024) El Nino weather pattern may collide with freezing temperatures from Canada, potentially unleashing a blizzard similar to that of 2010's 'Snowmageddon' (Pictured: A man walks his dog in Silver Spring, Maryland, on Feb. 6, 2010) The February 2010 storm, dubbed 'Snowmageddon,' pummeled DC. (Pictured: The south side of the White House is seen under snowfall Feb. 6, 2010) 'I think there are a couple snowstorms down the pipe,' AccuWeather Inc. forecaster Paul Pastelok told Bloomberg. (Pictured: A woman digs her car out of the snow Feb. 7, 2010 in Chevy Chase, Maryland) 'A big storm or two is not off the charts here for February or early March.' (Pictured: People charge one another armed with snowballs during a large snowball fight involving about 100 people on Dupont Circle in Washington DC, Feb. 10 2010) While northern New Jersey may see flurries on Monday night into Tuesday morning, South Jersey is more likely to see plain rain. There is still a 40 percent chance of over 4 inches of snow in northwestern New Jersey and a 30 percent chance for about 2 inches of snow near Philadelphia, according to the National Weather Service. 'The overall pattern is not very conducive to significant snowfall along and east of the I-95 corridor, as a nearly perfect balance of all these factors would need to take place,' the National Weather Service said. 'Also working against snowier outcomes, fairly mild air and easterly winds flowing off the Atlantic on Monday should tend to keep the precipitation mainly in the form of rain outside of our far northwest zones.' This comes in the aftermath of a deadly storm on the West Coast, leaving nine people dead and a trail of destruction after five days of rain in California Evacuation orders were canceled for Santa Barbara County and downgraded for Ventura County. Firefighters rescue a homeless woman from floodwaters in San Bernardino on Monday New York and New Jersey residents will still be able to enjoy the spring-like temperatures in February before a storm hits. But the warmth before the storm may come to an abrupt stop when El Nino weather pattern collides with freezing temperatures from Canada, potentially unleashing a blizzard similar to that of 2010's 'Snowmageddon.' The February 2010 storm, dubbed 'Snowmageddon,' was a major blizzard that caused major impacts across the Northeast, including the death of 41 people. 'I think there are a couple snowstorms down the pipe,' AccuWeather Inc. forecaster Paul Pastelok told Bloomberg. 'A big storm or two is not off the charts here for February or early March.' Washington DC isn't expected to bear the brunt of these upcoming storms, but the city was pummeled with snow during the last 'snowmageddon.' This comes in the aftermath of a deadly storm on the West Coast, leaving nine people dead and a trail of destruction after five days of rain in California. The storm, fueled by El Nino, resulted in widespread power outages, road closures and flooding. Tributes have poured in for an 11-year-old schoolgirl who died after being hit by a bin lorry - as she is pictured for the first time. Elizabeth Bell, 11, died on Wednesday - a week after she was struck by the vehicle on the A6105 near East Gordon in the Scottish Borders. Now Elizabeth's primary school has paid tribute to her, describing the schoolgirl as a 'bright, friendly and caring soul'. Gordon and Earlston Primary Schools, where the youngster attended, has set up a GoFundMe page for Elizabeth to give her 'the best possible send-off'. A statement on the page reads: 'Following the tragic loss of our lovely Elizabeth, our school communities are keen to support her family in giving her the best possible send off. Elizabeth Bell, 11, died on Wednesday - a week after she was struck by the vehicle on the A6105 near East Gordon in the Scottish Borders Elizabeth Bell, 11, was struck by the vehicle on the A6105 near East Gordon in the Scottish Borders 'Elizabeth was a bright, friendly, kind and caring soul who was a valued member of Gordon and Earlston Primary Schools and will be dearly missed.' Kevin Wilson, headteacher of the school, posted in a tribute on Facebook: 'Following the tragic news regarding Elizabeth, we have received lots of messages of support and condolences for the parents. 'The suggestion made this week was for there to be a GoFundMe page created to support Elizabeths parents during this challenging time so that they can give her the best possible send off. 'On behalf of both our school communities, we have included a link below should anyone wish to offer some financial assistance. Please feel free to share this far and wide.' The collision happened at around 8.05am on January 31 and the 11-year-old was rushed to the Royal Hospital for Children in Edinburgh shortly after The fundraiser has so far raised nearly 3,000 in under nine hours. The collision happened at around 8.05am on January 31 and Elizabeth was rushed to the Royal Hospital for Children in Edinburgh. Officers are appealing for information about the crash, which happened near a junction with an unclassified local road. Sergeant Dom Doyle said: 'Our thoughts are with Elizabeth's family and they have asked for privacy at this very difficult time. 'Inquiries are ongoing and we are asking anyone who has not already spoken to officers and can assist with our investigation to get in touch.' Anyone with information is asked to call Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 0574 of January 31. Christmas came early for teenager Ethan Crumbley in late November 2021, as he proudly showed off on Instagram the present hed just been bought by his father. Just got my new beauty today. SIG SAUER 9mm. Any questions I will answer. He included an emoji of a smiling face with heart eyes, a measure of his delight at receiving a lethal handgun at 15. The following day he and his mother, Jennifer, took turns shooting the gun, a semi-automatic pistol which cost 410, at a range near their home just north of Detroit in Oxford, Michigan. She wrote on social media that it was a mom and son day testing out his new Christmas present. When two days after that a teacher at Oxford High School saw Ethan using his mobile phone during class to look up ammunition, the boy reassured her that shooting was a family hobby. Jennifer Crumbley took her son Ethan to a shooting range near their home just north of Detroit in Oxford, Michigan, and took turns shooting his 410 semi-automatic pistol School staff phoned his mother who, using the acronym for laugh out loud, texted her son: LOL. Im not mad at you. You have to learn not to get caught. That night, Ethan recorded a video declaring his plan to kill students and the following day he did it, emptying two 15-round magazines as he revealed the terrible true purpose of the Christmas present he had craved. He methodically walked through the schools hallways selecting his targets before surrendering to police. Four died and seven others, including a teacher, were injured. He has been sentenced to life in prison without parole after pleading guilty as an adult to murder and terrorism. Far more surprisingly, his 45-year-old mother now also faces a long sentence. In a landmark ruling whose likely consequences are reverberating across the U.S., she became the first parent ever to be held criminally responsible for a mass shooting committed by their child. And this week she was convicted of four counts of involuntary manslaughter one for each of the four dead victims, two girls aged 14 and 17 and two boys aged 16 and 17. The case, tragically, has created far more of a stir than the original shootings. It has once again pitted gun rights advocates, who insist nothing can be allowed to restrict Americans constitutional right to own firearms, against gun control campaigners who see, finally, a possible way forward to addressing the seemingly intractable problem of U.S. children taking firearms into schools and laying waste to their classmates. Ethan recorded a video declaring his plan to kill students and the following day he did it, emptying two 15-round magazines as he revealed the terrible true purpose of the Christmas present he had craved Ethan recorded a video declaring his plan to kill students and the following day he did it, emptying two 15-round magazines Crumbley pictured at Oakland County Court in Pontiac, Michigan, during her trial which found her guilty of involuntary manslaughter Inevitably, the case also has ramifications far beyond the U.S., as it raises the fundamental question of how much responsibility parents must legally accept for their childrens behaviour. In America, a country whose infatuation with firearms has wrought bloody havoc in schools and where they are the number one killer of children, the risks of failing in that responsibility are particularly grave. But legal experts are divided by Jennifer Crumbleys conviction. Some say it will ensure accountability and prevent future tragedies. However, others fear it will damage the fundamental principle in law of personal responsibility, by visiting the sins of children on their parents. What if your teenager takes your car, drinks, and kills someone? Are you going to be held responsible? asks University of Michigan Law School professor Frank Vandervort. Every parent who looks at this case must in some way say, There but for the grace of God go I. Mrs Crumbley will be sentenced in April and faces up to 15 years in prison per count. Prosecutors havent said if they will ask for them to run consecutively, which could mean 60 years. Her husband, James, is expected to go on trial next month on the same charges, after the couple asked to be tried separately. He at least will not be penalised by having been the last adult to handle the gun that was his wife, a fact that jurors admitted had been crucial in their guilty verdict. Jurors heard that Mrs Crumbley was so oblivious to her sons welfare that, while his mental health was sharply deteriorating, she was out being a swinger, holding sex parties at hotels with her lover, a married local fire chief named Brian Meloche. Ethan, now 17, is serving life in prison for killing four students at Oxford High School Under federal law it is illegal for minors to possess a handgun, but there are various exemptions such as target practice, hunting or training in gun-handling. Non-Americans may find it strange that this trial was never about the ethics of parents buying a lethal firearm for a 15-year-old boy for Christmas. Plenty of Americans would see nothing wrong in doing that. Instead, Judge Cheryl Matthews specifically told the jury that prosecutors had to prove Crumbley was guilty of manslaughter, either by gross negligence or by failing to perform a legal parental duty under Michigan law to exercise reasonable care to protect people from being harmed by a child. A crucial part of the prosecutions case was events just a few hours before the shootings, when both parents had been summoned to the school after a teacher found disturbing scribblings on Ethans maths test. Alongside the drawings of triangles and parallelograms, hed sketched pictures of a pistol and a dead body, alongside phrases such as The thoughts wont stop. Help me, Blood everywhere and The world is dead. Staff feared he might be suicidal and demanded he be seen by a mental health expert that day, but Ethan reassured them: Im not going to do anything. The Crumbleys insisted he remain in school as they had to go back to work, but they never told staff that James had recently bought him a gun nor that his mental state was such that he claimed to be seeing demons. And if anyone had bothered to search his backpack before he was sent back to class just two hours before he started shooting they would have found the pistol and spare magazines of ammunition. Hed also brought to school a diary in which he confessed his intention to kill other pupils. Crumbley had been summoned to the school after a teacher found disturbing scribblings on Ethans maths test Karen McDonald, the Oakland County prosecutor and mother-of-five who took the controversial decision to prosecute the parents within days of the shootings, announced at the time: Gun ownership is a right and with that right comes great responsibility. She knew she was setting a legal precedent but added: Im angry as a mother. Im angry as the prosecutor. Im angry as a person that lives in this county. The notion that a parent could read what the killer had written on his maths test and also know he had access to a gun but still failed to do anything was not only unconscionable but criminal, she said. Some accused the Crumbleys, who owned two other handguns, of effectively admitting their guilt when they fled after being charged with involuntary manslaughter three days after the shooting in 2021. Police found them hiding in a warehouse in Detroit, although their lawyers insisted they had gone to ground for their own safety. Craig Shilling, the father of victim Justin Shilling, was tearful in court as the verdict on Jennifer Crumbley was announced. I feel most of all that the cries have been heard, he said. And I feel that this verdict is going to echo throughout every household in the country. While the Oxford tragedy was the deadliest in 2021, there were 34 other school shootings that year that resulted in deaths or injuries. This depressing trend is fuelled in large part by the relentless proliferation of weapons in the US. The Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution gives all citizens the right to keep and bear arms, and around 43 per cent of households own at least one gun. Two-thirds of gun owners say they own more than one and 29 per cent of them own at least five. Although gun sales in the US are a Wild West free-for-all, one stricture that even the most unscrupulous dealer generally observes is not selling them to children. Consequently, when pupils take guns into school, they invariably do so with a weapon theyve obtained from their parents or a close relative. Efforts to make weapons inaccessible to children are hampered by resistance from gun rights activists who insist weapons must be kept close at hand so that owners can protect themselves in the event of what Americans call a home invasion. Ethan had sketched pictures of a pistol and a dead body on his test, alongside phrases such as The thoughts wont stop. Help me, Blood everywhere and The world is dead Only after the Oxford shootings did Michigan start insisting gun owners with children in the house secure them with a cable lock or in a safe. An estimated 4.6 million US children live in homes where loaded firearms are unlocked. According to a 2021 survey, 70 per cent of parents believe they have sufficiently secured their weapons, but a third of their adolescent children say they can find them within five minutes. The Crumbleys have insisted they made the gun they bought Ethan difficult to find in their home and had no idea their son was planning any attack. But prosecutors contended they knew full well that Ethan was not only lonely, unhappy and delusional, but obsessed with guns and violent video games. As for his semi-automatic, it was stored unlocked in the couples bedroom. According to neighbours, Mrs Crumbley who as marketing director of a property company was the familys main breadwinner wore the trousers in their marriage while her more easy-going husband, who worked as a food delivery driver, was often stoned on cannabis (which is legal in Michigan) they grew in the basement of their house. She admitted that Ethan was so much left to his own devices that she didnt even make him brush his teeth, and he once had 13 cavities in his mouth. Her trial heard that, just before his 15th birthday, Ethan started text messaging his mother saying he was hearing strange noises and hallucinating, insisting their house was haunted by a demon which hurled objects. Prosecutors said Mrs Crumbley sometimes didnt even respond to his disturbing messages, let alone ever seek professional help. She countered that he liked to joke about the house having a ghost he called Boris Johnson. Later, he started filming himself on his phone torturing and decapitating young birds, which he made into repulsive videos. Crumbley denied her sons claim in his diary that his parents had refused to let him see a therapist, insisting hed never mentioned it In the weeks leading up to his rampage, he visited a website devoted to school shootings 421 times. He kept a diary with entries including: I have fully mentally lost it after years of fighting with my dark side and My parents wont listen to me about help or a therapist. He wrote that he wanted the 9mm pistol he got for Christmas to maximise the number of kills and later added: I will have to find where my dad hid my 9mm before I can shoot the school. He said his first victim has to be a pretty girl with a future, so she can suffer like me and he pledged: I will cause the biggest school shooting in Michigans history . . . I want all of America to see the darkness in me. James Crumbley knew about the diary but neither parent says they ever read it. Instead of tending to the needs of a son who was clearly deeply disturbed, prosecutors said his mother spent much of her time with her two horses and her lover, fire chief Meloche. The pair would often find strangers on a swingers app called Adult Friend Finder and arrange meet-ups with them after work, the court heard. Mrs Crumbley denied her sons claim in his diary that his parents had refused to let him see a therapist, insisting hed never mentioned it. She testified: I have asked myself if I would have done anything differently. I wouldnt have. I wish he would have killed us instead. Some legal experts argue that the Crumbleys parental failings were uniquely extreme, hence the unprecedented charges. But were they really? After the particularly infamous 2012 Sandy Hook elementary school massacre, in which 20-year-old Adam Lanza killed 20 young pupils, six adults and himself in Connecticut, it emerged that his mother, Nancy, had been an avid gun collector who stockpiled assault rifles in the family home. She taught her socially-isolated and violence-obsessed son how to use them at a local range despite knowing hed had severe mental and developmental issues since early childhood. She gave up seeking mental health treatment for him four years before the shootings. As the first person he fatally shot, she never had to explain herself. While the Crumbleys are the first to face manslaughter charges for a mass shooting, other parents have been found guilty on lesser charges of reckless conduct or child neglect. As the guilty verdicts were read out on Tuesday, Jennifer Crumbly once more closed her eyes only this time literally. From now on, parents whose children join Americas grim roll call of school shooters risk sharing her fate. Democrat Rep. Adam Smith admitted Friday that President Joe Biden's weakened strength will be difficult for his 2024 re-election campaign. His comments come the day after a highly anticipated Department of Justice report into Biden's handling of classified documents vindicated the president of wrongdoing but condemned his 'diminished faculties' and 'poor memory.' 'Look, I am not going to kid you on one point, it is a challenge that he is as old as he is,' Smith, D-Wash., said on CNN Friday. 'Without question.' Biden 'does not have the normal strength to go out there and campaign, you know, to do rally after rally and conversation after conversation. And that's going to be difficult on the campaign trail.' 'President Biden may not be the best campaigner in the world,' Smith said, before adding 'he is doing a good job as president.' Smith is the ranking member of the powerful House Armed Services Committee and a leader among House Democrats. Rep. Adam Smith, D-Wash., said that Biden's age will be a 'challenge' for his campaign President Joe Biden held a press conference Thursday to talk about his age and ability In response to the Thursday report, Biden held a hastily put together press conference to address his mental competency. 'I know what the hell I'm doing!' Biden fumed from the White House that evening. 'My memory has not gotten worse. My memory is fine. Take a look at what I have done since becoming president,' he continued. 'No one thought I could pass any of the things I got passed. How did that happen? I guess I just forgot what was going on...' Later in his comments, Biden confused the presidents of Mexico and Egypt, drawing further scrutiny from his critics. Robert Hur, the special counsel tapped by the DOJ to lead the investigation into Biden, included some particularly devastating excerpts in his report including a tidbit that Biden had forgotten when his son Beau died. Special Counsel Robert Hur, a Trump appointee, said in his report Biden has a 'poor memory' Hur's investigation centered on whether Biden illegally mishandled documents, which he did, though the Special Counsel recommended against charging the president Biden 'did not remember, even within several years, when his son Beau died,' Hur wrote. Additionally, the Special Counsel noted how Biden forgot when he was vice president. 'He did not remember when he was vice president, forgetting on the first day of the interview when his term ended ('if it was 2013 - when did I stop being Vice President?'), and forgetting on the second day of the interview when his term began ('in 2009, am I still Vice President?').' Republicans see the report as evidence that the president is not fit for duty, many have already called for federal officials to use the 25th Amendment to remove Biden. 'It's time for his cabinet to invoke the 25th Amendment,' Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., posted on X. Fellow Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia agreed. 'The Special Counsel's report exposing that Joe Biden's mental decline is so severe that he can not stand trial means he is unfit for office,' she wrote on X. 'We must demand either the 25th amendment be invoked or impeachment,' the GOP firebrand continued. The 25th Amendment, which has never been used before, gives the vice president and Cabinet power to remove the commander in chief from office via a majority vote in the event it's determined he or she is no longer fit for office. A German zoo has sparked outrage with plans to cull some of its 45-strong tribe of baboons and feed them to captive predators after contraception failed to stop the primates from breeding. The director of the Nuremberg Zoo, Dag Encke, announced the 'sensible' plan to kill off nearly half of the baboon population in the zoo - to allegedly 'ensure the survival' of the species. Zookeepers even tried putting the protected Guinea baboons on contraction, but this 'didn't work' as the monkeys kept replicating and the population continued to grow, according to a statement by the zoo. The Nuremberg Zoo now has 45 apes in the monkey house, but this was designed to hold only 25 animals. This lack of space resulted in additional stress for the primates and more arguments between these otherwise social animals, which increasingly often end in blood. The healthy baboons which will be killed for conservation will either be handed over to science or fed to predators in the zoo. The latter caused outrage among animal rights activist groups like PETA Germany. The director of the Nuremberg Zoo, Dag Encke, today announced the 'sensible' plan to kill off nearly half of the baboon (pictured) population in the zoo - to allegedly 'ensure the survival' of the species Zookeepers even tried putting the protected Guinea baboons on contraction, but this 'didn't work' as the monkeys kept replicating and the population at the Nuremberg Zoo (pictured above) continued to grow The International Union for Conservation of Nature classified Guinea baboons as endangered and said they should be kept in zoos for species conservation. The Guinea baboons live in protected areas in several West African countries, but because the population there has also surged, there is no space to relocate Nuremberg's primates to African countries either, Encke explained. The zoo even tried to rehome the primates to a monkey sanctuary, but they already have a waiting list of more than 200 confiscated animals waiting for a new home. 'No one from the zoo thinks what is being done is good. But it is sensible,' Encke said. The surge in the zoo's baboon population could endanger their survival, as the primates are getting too old and are having too few offspring due to the overcrowding in the monkey house, the zoo directed added. If there were too few offspring, this would in turn destroy the social structure within the group. The surge in the zoo's baboon population could endanger their survival, as the primates are getting too old and are having too few offspring due to the overcrowding in the monkey house, the zoo directed added (baboons pictured in the zoo's monkey house) 'Breeding and killing animals is a vicious circle created by zoos themselves. This can only be broken if plans are drawn up to stop breeding and close zoos, instead of discussing the possible killing of animals - no matter what species it concerns,' PETA biologist Yvonne Wurz said in a statement. 'Killing public favorites such as primates, lions or giraffes is considered less acceptable than killing ungulates, which are often used within zoos as food for other animals,' Wurz added. READ MORE: Three hikers have their legs broken by BABOONS who push a 130lb boulder over a cliff as the group abseiled on their territory in South Africa Advertisement 'The Nuremberg Zoo has also repeatedly killed animals in the past - including animals that belong to endangered species, for example Mendes antelopes. 'This once again shows how much the zoo audience is being deceived by the supposed species protection argument. 'In the case of the Guinea baboons that are now to be killed, the zoo even openly admits that releasing them back into the wild is not possible or wanted.' Peta Germany said in the statement that it would like to file criminal charges against those responsible at the Nuremberg Zoo if baboon are killed. It would have to be carefully examined whether those killings are an exceptional case under federal laws that allow them as a 'last resort'. The decision is 'a declaration of bankruptcy,' James Bruckner from the German Animal Welfare Association told BR24. He added that the zoo had 'cultivated' the overpopulation of the baboons for 'years' and was only now doing something about it. But killing the primates now was 'irresponsible', and Bruckner suggested that either Nuremberg Zoo or a different zoo should make room for the animals. The Department of Justice considered charging President Joe Biden's ghostwriter of his memoir with obstruction of justice after he destroyed recordings of his conversations with the president. Special Counsel Robert Hur noted in his report released Thursday that Biden's ghostwriter Mark Zwonitzer deleted his recordings after he learned about the Justice Department's investigation of Biden's mishandling of classified documents. The report noted that Zwonitzer, who helped Biden write his memoir 'Promise Me, Dad,' never held a security clearance and that Biden shared classified information with him by reading from his personal notes. Mark Zwonitzer was the ghostwriter for Joe Biden's memoir 'Promise me Dad.' 'At other times, however, Mr. Biden read his notes from classified meetings to Zwonitzer nearly word-for-word,' the report noted, citing details of a Situation Room meeting at the White House in 2015. '[O]n February 16, 2017, after he was no longer vice president. Mr. Biden read portions of the same notebook entry aloud and nearly verbatim to Zwonitzer, including portions containing information that remains classified up to the Secret level,' the report added. Zwonitzer deleted the audio recordings, the report notes, but officials were able to recover most of them with forensic tools. Agents also found details of 'incriminating information' against Biden in the author's transcripts of the recordings. Special Counsel investigators ultimately decided against prosecuting Zwonitzer. 'In his interviews, the ghostwriter offered plausible, innocent reasons for why he deleted the recordings,' the report read. At one point in the book-writing process, Biden told Zwonitzer that 'I just found all the classified stuff downstairs' when recalling his attempt to convince President Barack Obama not to send a surge of troops into Afghanistan. Biden was referring to the basement office of his Virginia home in 2017. Biden famously opposed the administration's recommendation for a surge of troops into Afghanistan as 'outrageous' according to his personal notes cited in the report. Biden said to investigators he did not remember finding classified documents in his office. FBI agents discovered the classified Afghanistan documents in a cardboard box in the garage of his home in Delaware in December 2022. Agents found Joe Biden's classified notes about the war in Afghanistan in his possession U.S. President Joe Biden reacts as he delivers remarks at the White House in Washington, U.S., February 8, 2024. Biden flatly denied sharing any classified information with Zwonitzer during a press conference at the White House on Thursday evening. 'I did not share classified information. I did not share with my ghostwriter. I did not. Guarantee you did not,' he replied when asked about it by reporters. Biden praised Zwonitzer as a 'great great guy' in an interview with Mike Barnicle for the Audible version of his memoir. 'I trust him with my life,' Biden said. Zwonitzer did not return a request for comment from Dailymail.com. It was 2009 and the Taliban was on the rise, while the government of Afghan President Hamid Karzai was on the ropes. More than 300 American personnel died over the course of the year. The question facing U.S. President Barack Obama was whether the U.S. should pare back Operation Enduring Freedom, or redouble the national effort in Afghanistan for what would become the nation's longest war. In December, in a speech at West Point, Obama announced the U.S. would be surging an additional 30,000 U.S. troops into Afghanistan nearly doubling the 70,000 forces already committed by President Georg W. Bush. The additional sacrifice wouldn't ultimately change the outcome of the war. But inside his administration a key confidant, Vice President Joe Biden, was despondent and defeated. He feared the nation was 'drifting into another Vietnam'. Biden was at least confident that he had done all he could to resist the move. And he had the receipts to prove it. President Joe Biden kept notebooks, notecards, and letters from his long campaign to try to persuade President Barack Obama not to send a large surge of troops to Afghanistan when a top general wanted to send 40,000 Fear of 'another Vietnam' and a 'hazy' memory 'Biden always believed he was right and that he would be vindicated by history,' wrote Special Counsel Robert Hur in his bombshell 388-page report that said he would not charge Biden for possession of sensitive materials even while calling him an 'elderly man' with a 'hazy' memory. As previously secret contents of some of his notebooks reveal, Biden was determined even in defeat to memorialize his own lonely crusade trying to talk Obama out of it more than a decade before as president he would pull U.S. forces out of the country, setting in motion a chaotic withdrawal. Hur includes long descriptions of the documents themselves and some of the White House debates involved in his report, helping establish why Biden kept the information that was ultimately key evidence in his classified documents probe. 'Early in the administration, Mr. Biden opposed President Obama's decision to deploy additional American troops to Afghanistan, and in the administration's internal debates, Mr. Biden was the lone dissenter. Privately, he worried the nation was drifting into another Vietnam,' Hur writes, citing an entry from one of Biden's notebooks. Biden kept reams of notebooks, monogramed notecards, and an emphatic hand-written letter to the president, crafted over a Thanksgiving weekend in Nantucket, imploring the Commander in Chief not to commit the nation to another quagmire. Biden memorialized his steps and tactics trying to talk President Barack Obama out of surging U.S. troops into Afghanistan. But some of his notes ended up in his home office in Wilmington Biden feared the additional forces would commit the U.S. to a Vietnam-like situation Biden took notes about security meetings leading up to Obama's decision Prosecutors say he shared information about the internal discussions with his ghostwriter Biden saw himself as a 'historic figure,' Hur writes Resisting a decorated general who wanted to send 40,000 Arguing against him was decorated Army Gen. Stanley McChrystal, who was in command of U.S. forces in Afghanistan and who helped take out Iraqi terror leader Abu Musab al-Zarqawi. McChrystal wanted as many as 40,000 new troops. Also arrayed against Biden were Defense Secretary Robert Gates, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and Gen. David Petraeus, notes Hur, who cites biographies by Gates and Obama. Biden considered the Pentagon's lobbying for troops 'f***ing outrageous.' He took a series of steps to try to resist the idea, scribbling down accounts of his best efforts. He debated security officials during nine meetings Obama convened on the troop surge proposal. He buttonholed his boss. And he made efforts to marshal his best arguments on paper and get them in front of the president. As was his habit, Biden took notes in his notebook labeled 'Af/Pac.' Photos from this period show Biden taking notes at these meetings - including one where he was seated across a long table from Clinton and another looking at 'two marked classified documents that were later recovered from his Delaware garage' during the probe. Some of Hur's conclusions are drawn from his interviews that Biden submitted to voluntarily. Biden boasted to Hur that Obama 'thought that I knew a lot more about Afghanistan than he did and other members of the administration.' He said Biden 'forcefully opposed' McChrystal's 40,000 troop surge to beef up counterinsurgency. Biden wrote that he was able to 'punch a hole' in the arguments of his opponents. 'If I succeed in slowing down or stopping this misguided (policy) buildup it will make taking this job worthwhile. This decision will define our Admin[istration] in history - hanging out there alone is worth it. I don't want history to associate me with the adoption of' the policy, he wrote in one notebook passage. Obama was moving toward a compromise surge of 30,000 with a timeline for drawing down troops, but Biden wasn't done intervening. Hand-writing a Thanksgiving memo to Obama from Nantucket He called the introduction of troops a 'strategic blunder' in a memo to Obama shortly before Thanksgiving, 2009. Then, Biden went to Nantucket with his family, as part of a tradition he continues to this day. He labored on yet one more memo, venting that he was 'tired and angry' at staff trying to box Obama in through leaks. He wrote in his own notes that the hand-written memo was 'placed in Pres. Hands' the Saturday after Thanksgiving. It was the 'first and only time' Biden wrote such a hand-written letter just for Obama. The document would later be recovered in his home in 2023, and contained information at the 'Secret' level. The Taliban made steady gains before Biden finally withdrew the last U.S. troops from Afghanistan Don't look back: President Joe Biden will not be criminally charged with stashing classified documents in his garage and private office. Some of the documents he kept related to his role as vice president arguing against sending more troops to Afghanistan The box circled in the foreground contained documents about Afghanistan. The picture was taken in December 2022 in Biden's garage, with other household items Biden wrote to himself that he considered resigning over the issue Memory lapse about ally he cited Hur used that memo as the basis to take one of his many shots at Biden's memory recall, saying it was 'hazy when describing the Afghanistan debate that was once so important to him.' 'Among other things, he mistakenly said he "had a real difference" of opinion with General Karl Eikenberry, when, in fact, Eikenberry was an ally whom Mr. Biden cited approvingly in his Thanksgiving memo to President Obama,' according to the report. Biden felt 'guilty' and 'boxed in', and knew he was going to lose the day before Obama made his final decision, he wrote, using novelistic language about where he stood. 'Tomorrow the President is going to make a fateful decision regarding Afghanistan - as I sat looking out the window at the sea - thinking I should resign in protest over what will bring his administration down,' he wrote in a notebook. 'Although I obviously wasn't there I feel like this is what it must have felt like for Kennedy then Johnson in the early days ofVTN [Vietnam]. I feel guilty and boxed in myself. Guilty not having been more successful w/ the President - and staying,' he said. One final in-person pitch to Obama Biden still wasn't done. He made a last-ditch in-person pitch to Obama, leaving his family behind in Nantucket to be with Obama. He tried for a private talk with Obama but got 'rebuffed,' according to former White House Chief of Staff Ron Klain, who told Hur Biden feared 'sending tens of thousands of Americans over to a pointless war.' He showed up early to the White House so he could walk with Obama, to no avail. 'I think - I hope - I did all I could have done to move us as far away from [Petraeus and McChrystal] as possible,' he wrote, in yet another notebook entry that seems designed for posterity. Some of Biden's ruminating, though not classified information, ended up in his first memoir, 'Promise Me Dad.' He is accused of sharing classified information with his ghostwriter, Mark Zwonitzer, and Hur relates times Biden himself mentioned classified material during recorded conversations with him. Hur writes with a tad of doubt that Biden 'has long seen himself as a historic figure', and recounts some of his long political biography. 'He believed his record during decades in the Senate made him worthy of the presidency, and he collected papers and artifacts related to significant issues and events in his career. He used these materials to write memoirs published in 2007 and 2017, to document his legacy, and to cite as evidence that he was a man of presidential timber,' according to the report. His own Vice President Kamala Harris blasted Hur's report Friday for including for 'gratuitous' shots at Biden. Despite the effort, Obama rejected his vice president's advice. 'But Mr. Biden always believed he was right and that he would be vindicated by history,' according to Hur. He kept the documents, referring them while shaping the books that would memorialize his long career. The volumes helped kept him in the public eye and helped establish his persona in a primary process where in 2020, when he took heat for opposing the Iraq war authorization and then opposing a troop surge by President Bush in 2007. Strong 'motive' to hang onto documents By including the long passages about Obama and Afghanistan, Hur elevates Biden's commitment to his cause and his legacy. But he also puts the saga to his own use: it establishes a 'motive' for Biden to hang onto information he should have given to the National Archives. (Biden stated that he believed some of the material belonged to him). 'Mr. Biden had a strong motive to keep the classified Afghanistan documents. He believed President Obama's 2009 troop surge was a mistake on par with Vietnam. He wanted the record to show that he was right about Afghanistan; that his critics were wrong; and that he had opposed President Obama's mistaken decision forcefully when it was made that his judgment was sound when it mattered most,' according to the report. Biden kept the classified Afghanistan documents near other items of 'great personal importance,' including photos of Beau. The Thanksgiving Obama memo laid down a marker on Biden's posture. 'In December 2022 and January 2023, FBI agents recovered these materials from Mr. Biden's Delaware garage and office,' writes Hur. That was a year and a half after Biden as president was able to pull the last remaining troops out of Afghanistan. Thirteen U.S. service members died in a terror attack during the withdrawal. His favorability rating in the Gallup poll has never risen above 50 per cent since then. Britain should wear criticism from Vladimir Putin over its war assistance for Ukraine like a 'badge of pride' a top Tory MP said today, after the Russian tyrant whined about UK backing for Kyiv. Mr Putin used a widely discredited one-to-one in Moscow with ex-Fox News presenter Tucker Carlson to lambast Boris Johnson for having 'dissuaded' the leader of Ukraine's leading party from signing a peace deal that would have ended the bloodshed. The Russian autocrat - who struggled to control tremours in his legs during the two-hour interview - alleged that negotiations had been taking place in Istanbul and that Ukraine signed the deal but backed out under pressure from the then PM, who said it was 'better to fight Russia'. Mr Johnson has previously dismissed the claims as 'propaganda', while Davyd Arakhamia, the head of the Servant of the People party that was involved, has also said they were not true. Bob Seely, the Isle of Wight Tory MP who has been sanctioned by Russia over his criticism of Vladimir Putin, said the UK should increase its support for Kyiv. 'We should wear it as a badge of pride because we have helped prevent his invasion of Ukraine succeeding,' he said. Bob Seely, the Isle of Wight Tory MP who has been sanctioned by Russia over his criticism of Vladimir Putin, said the UK should increase its support for Kyiv. Alicia Kearns, the chairwoman of the Commons' Foreign Affairs Committee, told MailOnline: 'Carlson's interview indulged and appeased an autocrat responsible for crimes against humanity.' The former Fox News host was accused of 'war criminal-washing' over his audience with the Russian tyrant in which he repeated discredited claims about former prime minister Boris Johnson . Mr Putin was allowed to drone on unchallenged for long chunks of time as he also gave a rambling history lesson about Russia dating back to the year 800 but was not asked tough questions about the invasion. Mr Johnson, an outspoken supporter of Ukraine, has previously dismissed the claims as 'propaganda', while Davyd Arakhamia, the head of Ukraine's ruling party, has also said they were not true. He added that under Mr Johnson we actually rallied the world and that was a very important thing that we did. 'Putin is still trying to scare the world into thinking that the Russians are going to declare nuclear war or this will end in a nuclear conflict,' he said. 'We have to be careful but I think the rhetoric is designed to intimidate and I think it is contemptible.' Mr Carlson was also accused of 'war criminal-washing' over his audience with Mr Putin, who has a record of jailing journalists who give him a hard time. Mr Putin was allowed to drone on unchallenged for long chunks of time as he also gave a rambling history lesson about Russia dating back to the year 800 but was not asked tough questions about the invasion. US figures branded Mr Carlson 'Putin's useful idiot', while Alicia Kearns, the chairwoman of the Commons' Foreign Affairs Committee, told MailOnline: 'Carlson's interview indulged and appeased an autocrat responsible for crimes against humanity, hostage taking, chemical weapons attacks and the illegal invasion of a sovereign country. The idea that this interview was journalism is for the birds, it was nothing more than war criminal-washing. 'The UK has led the strategic defence of Ukraine, from critical equipment to diplomatic support to resilience measures all the way back in 2015 when I was sent to Ukraine to assist them to tackle Russian disinformation attacks. 'It's no surprise Putin hates the UK for standing up for the rule of law and refusing to allow autocrats to achieve sovereignty through violence.' PM Rishi Sunak also waded into the row, branding as 'clearly ridiculous' Putin's repeated claim that the war in Ukraine was a result of Nato expansion. The Prime Minister told broadcasters during a visit to the South West: 'Russia conducted an illegal, unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. I'm proud that the UK has stood strongly with Ukraine from the beginning. 'I was there earlier this year, the first foreign leader to visit. 'It was my first visit of the year to announce significant military support to Ukraine and also a broader security relationship with them. 'We can't let this type of behaviour go unchecked. It impacts all of our security. 'We've already seen the impact it had on everyone's energy bills. And that's why we're working closely, not just with the US but with allies around the world, to give Ukraine the support it needs for as long as it takes to repel the Russian invasion.' Putin claimed that Mr Arakhamia put his 'preliminary signature' on the deal after direct negotiations with Russians in Istanbul. 'But then he [Arakhamia] publicly stated to the whole world, we were ready to sign this document but Mr Johnson, then the Prime Minister, came and dissuaded us from doing this, saying it was better to fight Russia,' he went on. 'They would give everything needed for us to return what was lost during the clashes with Russia. And we agreed with this proposal'. PM Rishi Sunak (pictured in Plymouth this morning) also waded into the row, branding as 'clearly ridiculous' Putin's repeated claim that the war in Ukraine was a result of Nato expansion. Mr Putin went on: 'And the fact that they obey the demand or persuasion of Mr Johnson, the former Prime Minister of Great Britain, seems ridiculous. 'And it's very sad to me because, as Mr Arakhamia put it, we could have stopped those hostilities with war a year and a half ago already. But the British persuaded us and we refused this. Where is Mr Johnson now? And the war continues.' He accused the US of telling Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to refuse to negotiate any deal and said he wanted to agree a settlement. 'And we made it [a deal],' he said. 'We prepared the huge document in Istanbul that was initialed by the head of the Ukrainian delegation. He had fixed his signature to some of the provisions, not to all of it. He put his signature and then he himself said, we were ready to sign it, and the war would have been over long ago. Eighteen months ago. Christian Bale offered a closer look at his long-time project of building a village to house siblings being fostered so they don't get separated by the system. Bale, 50, has been working on his California village since the birth of his daughter in 2005 when he was 'stunned and mad' to discover how many children were in care in the state. The actor, who had is big break at age 12 in Empire of the Sun, plans to build 12 houses and two studio apartments and a 7,000-square-foot community center. Bale intends for the two studio apartments to help foster children transition into independent living as they age into adulthood. Famous for his roles in American Psycho and Christopher Nolan's Batman series, Bale plans to complete the construction of his community by 2025. Christian Bale offered a closer look at his long-time project of building a village to house siblings being fostered so they don't get separated by the system Bale, 50, (pictured here with his wife, Sibi Blazic, 53) has been working on his California village since the birth of his daughter in 2005 when he was 'stunned and mad' to discover how many children were in care in the state The actor, who had is big break at age 12 in Empire of the Sun, plans to build 12 hours and two studio apartments and a 7,000 square foot community center The project has an estimated cost of $22 million and is situated next to a park in Palmdale, around 60 miles away from Los Angeles. Bale is the co-founder of an organization called Together California, which is coordinating the development. The organization's project is being developed under the leadership of executive director Tim McCormick and Bale's co-founder, UCLA's Dr. Eric Esrailian. He called the village, which is the first of its kind in the state, 'something absolutely new, totally transformative and something completely needed.' At an event in Antelope Valley yesterday, Bale stood with his wife, Sibi, and a group of elected officials and tight-knit supporters to break ground on the plan. He presented the blueprint of the project, which has a single aim - to keep siblings in the foster system together under one roof. 'Imagine the absolute pain and the trauma of losing your parents or being torn from your parents, and then losing your brothers and sisters on top of that, that's no way to treat kids,' Bale said at the event. 'And so, we will be the hub for that. I hope that this village will be the first of many, and I hope that people, Californians and Angelenos, know to come join us in opening our eyes to what's happening right under our noses. 'These are our children, and we must help our children.' Bale intends for the two studio apartments to help foster children transition into independent living as they age into adulthood The project has an estimated cost of $22 million and is situated next to a park in Palmdale, around 60 miles away from Los Angeles Bale is the co-founder of an organization called Together California, which is coordinating the development The 50-year-old Oscar winner was technically born in Haverfordwest, Wales, but he became a naturalized US citizen in 2014, and he's lived in LA as far back as 1992. Christian first found fame at age 13 starring as British upper middle class schoolboy James 'Jim' Graham who's locked up in a Chinese internment camp in Steven Spielberg's 1987 war film, Empire of the Sun. He has been married to Sibi Blazic for 24 years, and they share two children together: Emmeline Bale, 18, and Joseph Bale, 9. Selfie-taking visitors are damaging valuable art at museums all around the world by walking backwards into paintings, objects, and displays, that's according to specialist insurer Hiscox. The head of art and private clients at Hiscox, Robert Read said that many venues are being forced to cover mounting costs from selfie-related accidents after objects are damaged or knocked over. He described that the 'pandemic of selfies' was forcing museums and galleries to install protective barriers and hire enforcers to prevent people from creating further accidents. London's National Gallery for years have banned the use of selfie-sticks due to concerns regarding safety 'Pandemic of selfies' was forcing museums and galleries to install protective barriers, and hire enforcers to counteract people to create further accidents Mr Read said: 'Pre-mobile phones people had a sense of what was acceptable and what wasn't. Now when people have a phone in their hand, it's as though they have no inhibitions. 'It sort of neutralises what their normal brain function would be in terms of stepping away from something or not putting themselves in danger. 'But somehow that feeling of getting a picture means whether it's damaging a painting or damaging yourself, those barriers no longer seem to exist.' Half of the losses incurred by Hiscox's art underwriting business are caused by accidental damage, many of which include accidental damage from selfie-takers. Back In 2017, one negligent selfie-taker reportedly destroyed $200,000 (158,000) of artwork after losing her balance at a Los Angeles-based art exhibition displaying the sculptures of UK-born artist Simon Birch. Elsewhere, a pumpkin sculpture by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama in her acclaimed Infinity Mirror Rooms was damaged when a selfie-snapper lost her balance, also occurring in 2017. Pumpkin sculpture by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama London's National Gallery and the British Museum for years have banned the use of selfie-sticks due to concerns regarding safety, individual privacy and the overall visitor experience. Mr Read also warned about the increasing art vandalism by climate activists and other protest groups could force galleries to introduce 'airport style security' and confiscate liquids from visitors. A notable example of this occurred in October 2022 when a pair of activists from the Just Stop Oil campaign threw tomato soup over Vincent Van Goch's iconic 76 million painting Sunflowers at the National Gallery in London. However, despite gaining the coverage they desired from this stunt, the painting itself was un harmed due to it being protected by glass. Alkali attack suspect Abdul Ezedi is believed to have 'gone into' the River Thames, the Metropolitan Police said as it released CCTV of his 'final moments'. The force said on Friday its main working hypothesis is that the 35-year-old had 'gone into the water', but no body had been found. Ezedi, from the Newcastle area, is accused of pouring a strong alkali on his ex-partner, and injuring her two young children, aged three and eight, on Wednesday January 31 in Clapham, south London. The woman had been in a relationship with Ezedi, with the breakdown of the relationship a possible motive for the attack. A manhunt to find him has been ongoing for more than a week, with officers raiding two addresses linked to Ezedi in Newcastle in the early hours of Thursday. CCTV footage of Abdul Ezedi (bottom right wearing a black jacket), the suspect in the Clapham alkaline substance attack, crossing over Chelsea Bridge The Metropolitan Police said two raids were carried out by armed officers at addresses in Newcastle associated with alkali attack suspect Abdul Ezedi in the early hours of Thursday morning The manhunt for fugitive Abdul Ezedi (pictured) entered its second week with police revealing the motive behind the 'brutal' attack appears to be the breakdown of a relationship Abdul Ezedi was last seen leaving Tower Hill underground station in east London at 9.33pm on January 31 (pictured leaving the tube station) Nick Aldworth a former national counter-terrorism co-ordinator with 36 years' experience in the police and military, says it is 'not unlikely' Ezedi could have taken his own life Earlier this week police said the last confirmed sighting was just before 11.30pm on January 31, a few hours after the attack, as he crossed over Chelsea Bridge and entered Battersea Park in central London, then crossed back over the same bridge minutes later. In a briefing at Scotland Yard, Commander Jon Savell said: 'We have spent the last 24 hours meticulously following the CCTV, and it's our main working hypothesis that he's now gone into the water. 'We have looked at all of the available cameras and angles, and with the assistance of Transport for London and CCTV from buses that were travelling over the bridge at the relevant time and there is no sighting of him coming off the bridge.' 'At this time of year, the Thames is very fast flowing, very wide and full of lots of snags. 'It is quite likely that if he has gone in the water, he won't appear for maybe up to a month and it's not beyond possibility that he may never actually surface.' Last week, Nick Aldworth a former national counter-terrorism co-ordinator with 36 years' experience in the police and military, said it was is 'not unlikely' Ezedi could have taken his own life. He told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'I think if we've not seen or heard from him in the the last couple of days, which appears to be the case, he's gone to ground, possibly supported by somebody... 'Or - it's not unlikely or improbable - that he may have taken his own life. There is therefore a body to be found somewhere.' Questions have been raised over how the suspect, who was granted asylum in the UK after two failed attempts, was able to stay in the country despite being convicted of a sex offence. Police said Ezedi left Newcastle in the early hours of Wednesday and travelled south to London and was in the Tooting area by around 6.30am. His vehicle was seen again in Croydon, south London, at around 4.30pm and by around 7pm he was in Streatham. Ezedi allegedly threw the younger child to the ground during the attack at 7.25pm, before attempting to drive away from the scene, crashing into a stationary vehicle and fleeing on foot. Minutes later he boarded a Tube train at Clapham South Underground station, and by 8pm he was at King's Cross Tube station. Police say three members of the public who came to the aid of the family during Wednesday's attack, two aged in their 30s and one in her 50s, have all been discharged from hospital with minor burns. BBC Radio 4 also interviewed a woman who suffered third degree burns to her foot while rescuing the three-year-old girl in the attack. Sue Sim, former Chief Constable of Northumbria Police who led the manhunt for killer Raoul Moat, said: 'What you do have to remember is it's very easy to vanish in a city' The woman, who lives nearby, rang police and went with the girl to hospital. She took action after she saw the little girl being pulled out of the car and thrown to the ground Ezedi's movements on the day of the attack Police have released a timeline of Abdul Ezedi's movements on the day of the attack. 00:15 Ezedi's vehicle is seen in Newcastle 06:30 His vehicle is then seen traveling into Tooting, London 16:30 A further sighting of his vehicle is confirmed in Croydon 19:00 He is then seen driving in Streatham 19:25 Attack takes place in Lessar Avenue, SW4, before Ezedi makes off in his vehicle which crashes nearby. He leaves the car and runs off. 19:33 Ezedi boards a train at Clapham South Tube Station. 19:59 He is then seen leaving that train at King's Cross Tube Station. 20:42 He is then seen on CCTV leaving Tesco at 21 Caledonian Rd, London N1 9DX. He exits and turns right. 21:00 - Ezedi enters King's Cross Tube Station and boards a Victoria Line tube Southbound. Advertisement She said: 'I think everyone just froze because they didn't realise what had just happened. In the spacxe of a second, he did it again and that's when everyone tried to grab him, because if no one grabbed him, he would have done it a third time.' Sue Sim, the former Chief Constable of Northumbria Police - who led the manhunt for killer Raoul Moat, shared her thoughts on the hunt to find Abdul Azedi. She told Good Morning Britain: 'What you do have to remember is, it's very easy to vanish in a city. People walk with their heads down, people don't like to acknowledge other people. 'A city is far easier to vanish into than the wilds of Northumberland where Moat went missing in 2010. 'But yes, if somebody is hiding him, hand him in immediately.' Moat, who had a hatred of police, notoriously gunned down his ex-partner's new boyfriend Chris Brown before shooting PC David Rathband in Newcastle city centre. He was caught after seven days hiding in woodland near Rothbury, Northumberland, when a woman watched him walk past her front door and phoned police. Moat later shot himself in the head in a showdown with police. Ms Sim added: 'The public are the best support to the police in instances when people go missing. Yes, police will be using all their investigative and intelligence techniques. But the public - they're the ones who will bring this man to justice. 'Please call the police immediately if you know where he is.' Asked by host Richard Madeley, she said she had 'no doubt' Ezedi would be found. Releasing the new information about Ezedi's movements, officers confirmed the 35-year-old, suspected of chucking an alkaline substance over the family on Wednesday evening, was last seen exiting Tower Hill Underground station that night at 9.33pm. After fleeing the scene on Lesser Avenue in the south London suburb, Ezedi visited a Tesco Express store on Caledonian Road, where he bought a bottle of water. He then boarded a southbound Victoria Line train from King's Cross at 9pm. The suspect arrived to Victoria Station at 9.10pm before switching tube lines, departing on the eastbound District Line at 9.16pm, before exiting the tube station in east London. New footage released by the force today showed Ezedi strolling through the Tesco store with what appears to be a large burn mark over his right eye. He looks face-down at the floor every time he passes a fellow customer or member of staff. The man, dressed in a blue t-shirt with a black coat and black jeans, clutches onto a large water bottle as he walks out the door of the store and turns right towards the station. The huge reward for information comes as the nation-wide manhunt for the fugitive enters its fourth day. Officers re-issued calls for Ezedi to hand himself into the police. Forensic police at the scene on Wednesday night near Clapham following the attack Providing an update on the chemical that the 35-year-old is suspected of chucking at the mother and her two little girls, age three and eight, police confirmed it an alkaline substance. Commander Savell said: 'The liquid used in the attack was a very strong concentrated corrosive substance, either liquid sodium hydroxide or liquid sodium carbonate.' The officer added that further investigations were taking place to compare the liquid to the large containers seized from Ezedi's address in Newcastle. Commander Savell urged anyone with information to contact police, adding: 'I am hugely grateful to the public for the significant number of calls that we have received. 'Your help is critical. A reward of up to 20,000 is now available for information leading to his arrest. 'I must warn anyone who is helping Ezedi to evade capture - if you are harbouring or assisting him then you will be arrested.' In a direct appeal to Ezedi, Darius Nasimi of the charity of Afghanistan & Central Asian Association, said: 'Abdul, I am speaking directly to you. I want you to go straight to a police station immediately. 'You have a serious injury that needs to be seen to but, more importantly, you must do the right thing and hand yourself in to police. 'This has gone on for long enough.' He said the suspect could contact the charity or go to the police immediately to help with the enquiries. Last night the National Crime Agency - the UK's equivalent of the FBI - were drafted in to help the Met find the 35-year-old who is suspected of chucking the alkaline substance at the family on Wednesday evening. Officers are investigating concerns that an organised crime group could be helping the fugitive hide from the authorities. New video footage shows the suspect walking through the Tesco Express on Caledonian Road, nearest to King's Cross train station Police have shared footage of Ezedi pictured on CCTV in King's Cross (left) and Tesco (right) with significant injuries after the attack The 31-year-old mother, who was known to Ezedi, remains 'very poorly' and sedated in hospital with her injuries thought to be 'life changing'. Her daughters, aged three and eight, have now been released from hospital following the attack. The woman was reportedly living in the hotel in Clapham with her two little girls for a fortnight, thought to have been hiding from Ezedi. The search for Ezedi is being led by the Met's Specialist Crime Command unit who are working with the Home Office, UK Border Force, UK Visas and Immigration, the National Crime Agency and British Transport Police. Local police forces are also involved in the massive hunt for the man. It comes as witnesses continue to relive the terrifying ordeal with a brave have-a-go hero recalling how her partner lunged at the suspect as he tried to harm the toddler. One couple ran out onto Lesser Avenue in the south London suburb when they heard terrifying screams coming from outside. The pair, who asked to remain anonymous, said they saw a man - thought to be Ezedi - attacking a 'vulnerable woman'. They told the Sunday Times: 'We had no idea any substance was involved; only that the guy was clearly intent on hurting the [three-year-old]. 'He then went to pick the child up off the road to do it [throw the child to the ground] again, which is when my partner lunged in and tackled him, grabbing his leg and falling to the ground in the process like a rugby tackle. 'I have no doubt that if my partner had not jumped in then the child would no longer be with us, and if our other neighbours hadn't immediately taken the family and washed them down then their injuries would have been far worse.' Both the man and woman have been injured from the attack. He has arm injuries, while his partner has 'burnt both eyeballs' and may have permanent damage. Ezedi was last seen on Wednesday night at King's Cross Underground station where he boarded a southbound Victoria line train, with what looked like severe burn son his right eye. Forensics at the scene take picture of the location close to Clapham Common following the incident Over the weekend police said 'significant and important pieces of evidence' were recovered in raids at two addresses in east London and three in Newcastle. They include empty containers with corrosive warnings found at one address in Newcastle, which are shown in new footage released by detectives. Forensic tests to see if the containers held the substance used in the attack are ongoing. Since launching its appeal, the Met said it has received 'dozens of calls' about the manhunt, including possible sightings of Ezedi. The force said it is working 'round the clock' with British Transport Police, Northumbria Police, the National Crime Agency and Transport for London on the manhunt. Commander Jon Savell said: 'The police investigation to establish his subsequent movements and ultimately locate him is continuing at pace. 'I want to thank everyone who has contacted police to share what they know. 'We have received dozens of calls with information, including possible sightings, and every single piece of information has been recorded and forms part of our ongoing investigation. 'I can assure the public that my colleagues and I are fully committed to using every available tool and tactic for as long as it takes to find Abdul Ezedi. The Met Police have released more images of Clapham chemical attack Abdul Ezedi strolling injured through King's Cross station following Wednesday's events 'I am today urging the public to remain vigilant and to contact police immediately if they may have seen Ezedi or have information about him. 'I would also like to reiterate that if you see Ezedi, you should call 999 immediately. He should not be approached.' Questions remain over how the suspect, who was granted asylum in the UK after two failed attempts, was able to stay in the country despite being convicted of a sex offence. Ezedi, who is thought to have arrived in the UK from Afghanistan on the back of a lorry in 2016, claimed to have converted to Christianity, which would have put him at risk following the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan. The Crown Prosecution Service confirmed he was handed a suspended sentence at Newcastle Crown Court on January 9 2018 after pleading guilty to one charge of sexual assault and one of exposure. He was put on the Sex Offenders Register for 10 years. Today a shadow minister has suggested that Ezedi should never have been granted asylum into the UK. When asked by Trevor Phillips on his Sky News programme whether there is 'something wrong' with a system that allowed the wanted man to stay in the UK, Chris Bryant said 'yes'. He added: 'In the main, on the face of it, if everything that we have been told is true, then it seems absolutely extraordinary that the British people should be put at such risk from this person. 'Of course it's something we might need to look at.' Education Secretary Gillian Keegan said this morning that the alkali attack was 'not really about asylum'. She told Sky 'we need to get to the bottom' of why Ezedi was allowed to remain in Britain indicating the issue is being investigated by the Home Office. Asked how it was possible the suspect had been granted asylum after being found guilty of a sexual offence, Mrs Keegan said: 'I think that is something that more than one person is asking. 'My understanding is the Home Secretary has asked for all the details, but this is not really about asylum,' she added, before going on to talk about the victims and others impacted by the attack. She continued: 'Clearly, what we say is that anybody who commits crimes is not able to stay in this country. So, if you have a sentence of more than 12 months, you are not allowed to stay if you have a criminal record, etc. 'We don't want to have people in this country who have criminal records.' Prime Minster Rishi Sunak's spokesman said on Friday that the PM does not think 'foreign criminals should be able to stay' in the UK. It has been reported that the suspect was able to gain asylum after claiming he had converted to Christianity. The Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle said in a statement it had found nothing to suggest he had become a Catholic but checks were continuing. It said: 'Our thoughts and prayers are first and foremost with the victims of this appalling attack in south London.' The diocese confirmed that Ezedi 'visited our diocesan Justice and Peace Refugee Project, a charitable venture which assists a wide range of people who come to us in need'. It added: 'After checking local parish records and central records and after consulting with clergy we have no indication that Abdul Ezedi was received into the Catholic faith in this diocese or that a Catholic priest of this diocese gave him a reference. 'We do not know which Christian church received him nor which Christian minister gave him a reference.' The project says on its website that it gives food, toiletries and clothes to vulnerable people. It does not get involved with any asylum claims clients may be pursuing, it is understood. It is understood that Ezedi visited it recently. The Church of England said it is currently not aware of any links to its churches, with a spokesperson adding that it is 'the role of the Home Office, and not the church, to vet asylum seekers and judge the merits of their individual cases'. The case has echoes of that of Iraqi-born Emad Al Swealmeen, 32, who died from a blast and subsequent fire after his homemade bomb detonated in a taxi outside Liverpool Women's Hospital. He also claimed to be a Christian convert to support his asylum claim. Police in hazmat suits raid a home in east London amid the search for Clapham chemical attack fugitive Ezedi Officers were seen smashing in the doors of the property shortly after 2am on Friday At a press conference on Friday, Mr Savell urged the suspect to hand himself in. He said: 'Abdul, you clearly have got some very significant injuries. We've seen the images. You need some medical help, so do the right thing and hand yourself in.' His brother Hassan Ezedi told The Sun he would hand the suspect in if he knew where he was. The wanted man left Newcastle in the 'very, very early hours' of Wednesday and travelled south to the capital and was in the Tooting area by around 6.30am, police say. His vehicle was seen again in Croydon, south London, at around 4.30pm and by around 7pm he was in Streatham. Ezedi allegedly threw the younger child to the ground during the attack at 7.25pm, before attempting to drive away from the scene, crashing into a stationary vehicle and fleeing on foot. Minutes later he boarded a tube at Clapham South Underground station, and by 8pm he was at King's Cross tube station. MailOnline revealed that Ezedi has more recently living in the Byker area of Newcastle in a hostel on the city's Wilfred Street St Vincent's Centre, in Byker, Newcastle, where acid attack suspect Abdul Ezedi visited the Justice and Peace Refugee Project every two weeks for toiletries and food At 8.42pm, Ezedi was captured on CCTV in Tesco on the Caledonian Road, pictured with a 'fairly significant facial injury' buying a bottle of water, before leaving and heading right. He got on a Victoria line Tube at 9pm heading south, the last confirmed sighting. Police say three members of the public who came to the aid of the family during Wednesday's attack, two in their 30s and one in her 50s, have all been discharged from hospital with minor burns. Five officers who responded to the incident were also treated and have now left hospital. As well as the 11 people taken to hospital, a man in his 50s, who also helped, declined hospital treatment for minor injuries, police said. Anyone with information about Abdul Ezedi is asked to call 020 7175 2784 or for an immediate sighting dial 999. To remain anonymous contact Crimestoppers. The jury in the trial of a woman accused of killing a random stranger has been shown the distressing moment the BMW worker's body was found floating in a river. Bodycam footage from the first police officer on the scene was played at Oxford Crown Court on the third day of the trial of 25-year-old Scarlet Blake. She is accused of killing Jorge Martin Carreno after meeting him in the early hours of the morning in Oxford city centre in July 2021. Months before the killing Ms Blake had live-streamed killing and dissecting a cat after watching the hit Netflix series 'Don't F*** with Cats.' Prosecutors have said Blake had a 'fixation with violence' and wanted to know what it was like to kill someone. She had also boasted to friends about her desire to 'open up a person like her little cat friend'. Scarlet Blake, 25, is accused of killing Jorge Martin Carreno after meeting him in the early hours of the morning in Oxford city centre in July 2021. Jorge Carreno, a 30-year-old Spanish citizen and warehouse worker, went missing after a night out with friends on July 25, 2021, and was found dead in the river Cherwell the next day Blake, dressed all in black, sat impassively in the dock between three security officers as the bodycam footage was played to the court. The body of 30-year-old Spanish national Carreno was pixelated out on the video was played to the jury. Members of his family left the courtroom before the footage was played. PC Maxwell Wilkins said he was on patrol on Oxford on when he was dispatched to a body in the water that had been found at an area on the River Cherwell known as Parsons Pleasure. He said fire crews were already on the scene and in the process of pulling the body out of the water. Other officers can be heard on the video shouting to passers-by to move back from the scene. The bodycam footage showed four fire fighters pulling the body out of the water. One of the men could be heard shouting 'Let's be real, rigor mortis has set in' about Mr Carreno. PC Wilkins noted that the person found was six foot tall, slim build with black hair tied at the back. Earlier, wildlife photographer Craig Prosser told how he found the body after spotting a black satchel in the water. Hie voice breaking with emotion, he said: 'I regularly see things floating in the water, my initial reaction was to try and pull it from the water and put it on the side. 'I probably would have needed a branch to fish it out. Then to my left, I saw the bottom, the sole of a shoe. It was white, or cream-coloured.' Prosser said he alerted two men walking a dog and they confirmed it was a body and they called emergency services. The five women and seven men on the jury have been told that Mr Carreno's death was initially thought to be suicide or an accident. But following a complex two-year police investigation by Thames Valley Police Blake, from Oxford, was charged with his murder. Prosecutors said Blake had targeted Carreno and took him to Parsons Pleasure where she killed him Bodycam footage from the first police officer on the scene was played at Oxford Crown Court on the third day of the trial, showing when Mr Carreno's body was recovered from the water Blake (centre) pictured being led into court in handcuffs by two security guards, is said to have had an erotic interest in death and harm Alison Morgan KC said :' She targeted him and took him to Parsons Pleasure, where she killed him, leaving his body to be discovered by others over 24 hours later,' the KC said. Ms Morgan explained that during the police investigation detectives had built up a picture of her background. 'The prosecution alleges that this defendant had an extreme interest in death and in harm,' she told the jury. 'It was an interest that went beyond mere fantasy. She described herself to others as being someone who derived sexual gratification from the thought of violence and the thought of death. 'Videos of her with one of her partners engaging in acts of strangulation, consensually, in a sexualised context. 'She spoke to others about what it would be like to kill someone. 'She looked at imagery and saved it on her devices that showed an interest in ligatures being applied around the neck. She talked about harming herself.' Jurors were also shown videos of the defendant and her partner engaging in consensual strangulation with ligatures. One shows her partner sat on a bed pulling the cord from the leopard print dressing gown tight around her neck until she appears to collapse and then breathe heavily as she recovers. The second clip shows Blake pulling a white cord tight around her partner's neck from behind with her again collapsing then recovering. Ms Morgan said: 'There is a fascination with ligatures for sexual gratification. 'Whatever it is about the fascination with the dressing gown, it must have been in her head and led her to take a selfie just an hour or so with that dressing gown before she found Mr Carreno.' The court also heard Blake had allegedly discussed with her partner Mr Carreno's murder. Referring to being in the company of a man, Blake messaged her, saying: 'Last time I found someone this drunk they died lol.' Carreno's former girlfriend had told the court prior to his death he was looking forward to the future. He had also told co-workers at the BMW plant where he worked that he wanted to marry and settle down. Blake denies murder. The trial continues. Sir Keir Starmer has revealed his 'sassy' wife's sweary outburst the first time they met - as he admitted she takes 'no nonsense' from him. The Labour leader spoke of how Victoria - when they spoke on the phone - asked of him: 'Who the f**k does he think he is?' Sir Keir branded their first encounter as 'classic Vic' in an interview for Vogue - which saw the couple pose on London's Parliament Hill for a glam photoshoot. His chat with the fashion bible also saw him insist he is 'tough' enough to make big political decisions. And the Labour leader spoke of the inspiration he takes from his mother Jo, who died just before he became an MP after a near-lifelong battle with ill health. Sir Keir Starmer revealed his 'sassy' wife Vic's sweary outburst the first time they met in an interview for Vogue - which saw the couple pose for a photoshoot on London's Parliament Hill The Labour leader's chat with the fashion bible also saw him insist he is 'tough' enough to make big political decisions Sir Keir described how he met Victoria, with whom he has two children, after he rang her on the phone to grill her on the accuracy of some documents. The ex-barrister said he overhead his future wife - a former solicitor who now works in occupational health for the NHS - remark to a collague before he'd hung up: 'Who the f**k does he think he is?' 'You might think, "Not the best of starts", but it was absolutely classic Vic,' Sir Keir told the magazine. 'Very sassy, very down to earth, no nonsense from anyone, including from me.' Sir Keir and Victoria married in 2007 and the Labour leader admits they endured the 'usual juggling' with childcare when they had their two children, who are now teenagers. Asked about who does the housework in th Starmer household, Sir Keir replied: 'We share it, Id say', before adding: 'Vic would say she does the majority of it.' See the full feature in the March issue of British Vogue, available via digital download and on newsstands from Tuesday 13 February The Labour leader grew up in Oxted, Surrey, before attending Leeds University and then St Edmund Hall at Oxford University. Sir Keir told Vogue how his parents Rod, a factory worker, and Jo, who had been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease at the age of 11, were 'inseperable'. 'Everything they did, they did together,' he said. 'The courage of my mum really went deep with me. 'My mum was extraordinary I hold that in me because every time I think, "This is tough", I just think about my mum. 'If she could keep getting back up, no matter how many times she was knocked to the floor, then I can do what I need to do.' He added: 'Towards the end of life, she was very ill, as you probably know. She died just days before I became an MP, which was hard really hard.' Sir Keir pointed to his legal career, which eventually saw him become head of the Crown Prosecution Service as Director of Public Prosecutions, as evidence he is 'tough' enough to take big political decisions. 'People often say in politics, "Are you tough enough to make the tough decisions?",' he said. 'My answer to that is: "Look, if youve sat in a cell with someone and had to make the decision about their case which could result in them living or dying, then youve had to take some tough decisions".' This video is no longer available This video is no longer available Frightening video footage captured the moment a fire department cadet suffered a 19-foot ball after his zipline cable broke and sent him crashing to the street during a voluntary training exercise in Brazil The man, whose name has not been released, could be seen on the video wearing a safety harness around his waist as he received instructions while he climbed out of a window of a building in Brasilia, the nation's capital. The victim the stood on the ledge and supported himself by placing his hands over the base of the window. He started to descend on the zip line and other cadets in the background cheered him on before the cable suddenly split. A Brazilian fire department academy cadet suffered multiple injuries last month after a zipline cable snapped during an exercise A fire department academy student survived a 19-foot fall after his zipline cable snapped during a drill at a building in the Brazilian capital, Brasilia The man fell face first into street below and lay motionless before the video recording abruptly came to an end. The incident occurred January 27, but the video was released for the first time Thursday. The cadet received medical aid on the scene from his classmates and was rushed to a local hospital where he was treated for arm and rib pain and a head gash, according to Brazilian news outlet G1. The man never lost consciousness. He has been released from the hospital and is recovering. A Brazilian fire department cadet received instructions moments before his zipline cable broke while he descended to the street below The fire department cadet was treated for injuries to his arms and ribs and a cut to the head following the January 24 accident. He is no longer hospitalized The Official Alpha-Resgate school has remained closed since the incident as part of the investigation. 'The course coordinator and all the instructors gave full support to the student, we did all the first care in the same way! We called the (fire department) and waited,' the school said in a statement. 'The coordinator went with him to the hospital entrance and to medical assistance. The student is well, we give him all the support he needs.' The school added that the ziplining exercise was not among the requirements. "The students were informed that anyone who did not want to participate would not be harmed in the course," the school said. "The student who had the accident did not want to get off, but was motivated by his colleagues to participate." An asylum seeker said he would have been killed by smugglers if had refused to pilot a boat in the English Channel where four people drowned, a court has heard. Ibrahima Bah, from Senegal, is accused of the manslaughter of four fellow migrants while seeking to get from France to the UK on December 14 2022. At Canterbury Crown Court on Friday, the defendant told jurors he agreed to pilot the boat before he had seen it, in exchange for free travel for himself as well as a friend. But the Senegalese man, who is over 18, said that when he saw the boat after it was pumped up on the beach, he changed his mind because he knew that it would be too small for the number of people travelling. The court previously heard the 'unseaworthy' inflatable should have had no more than 20 people on board, however it carried at least 43 people in the Channel that night. At Canterbury Crown Court on Friday, the defendant told jurors he agreed to pilot the boat before he had seen it Kent Police was called to Dover to assist HM Coastguard following a report received of a small boat in distress in the water Bah claimed that when he told the smugglers at the beach he would not travel in it, he was assaulted. Bah said: 'Once we got there and I saw that boat had been assembled, and I then saw the number of people who were going to be travelling, that's when I said 'no I'm not doing it'. READ MORE: A record 38,7000 asylum seekers are given refuge in the UK - even more than during the crisis in the early 2000s Official figures show 38,761 asylum claims were granted by the Home Office in the year to September more than during the asylum crisis in the early 2000s (File Photo) Advertisement 'When I said I'm not doing it, I was beaten up and they showed me that if I didn't pilot the boat they were going to beat me up and kill me.' He said he did not ask his fellow passengers for help, adding: 'They were all scared, some of them had been slapped, kicked, with a stick. 'I thought I did my best to try and escape from them (the smugglers) but I couldn't.' During the cross-examination, prosecutor Duncan Atkinson KC accused Bah of changing the reasons why he refused to pilot the boat, for example in previous statements where he said it was a little boat with a big engine, and that previous boats he piloted were wooden. He also accused Bah of not telling the truth about being forced to pilot the boat. Bah replied: 'Everything I said about the reason for me not wanting to drive that boat is correct, I'm the one who went through this experience, I'm the one who is before this court today, so I know what I'm talking about.' The court heard that it was Bah's dream to come to the UK to claim asylum, and he had left Senegal in 2019. He told police, when he arrived in the UK, that he had travelled from Senegal to Mali, Algeria and then Libya, before going by boat to Italy using smugglers. He had previously worked on fishing boats in Senegal, sometimes helping with fishing and steering the boat, and assisted in piloting the boat from Libya across the Mediterranean Sea to Italy. Bah told jurors he was in Dunkerque, France, for three months and one day when he was charging his phone an Afghan man saw a picture on it of him by the engine of the boat for the Libya-Italy crossing. He said if he showed the picture to a man he could let him travel for free with his friend. Court artist drawing by Elizabeth Cook of Ibrahima Bah, 19, at Folkestone Magistrates' Court, Kent Home Office caseworkers made just under 42,000 initial decisions on asylum claims in the year the highest level in two decades (File Photo) Of the journey itself, Bah said: 'My intention was to get here safely. Get on the water to be picked up so we could claim asylum. 'To reach a boat that could save us, that was the aim for all of us.' Bah is also on trial accused of facilitating illegal entry to the UK but he denied knowing he was travelling to the country illegally. 'To me the law allowed me to go to any country to claim asylum,' he said. 'That was the only way for me to enter this country and make my asylum application. 'What all of us wanted to do was enter British waters and see a ship that could help us to claim asylum.' The cross-examination continues. John Patrick Howard was found dead inside the fraternity house earlier this week, with police discovering a handwritten note near his body Police are investigating following a death in a fraternity house at Western Kentucky University. Officers received a call on Wednesday just before midday at the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity house in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Pictures captured at the scene show the police response to the off-campus fraternity home. According to a police report, the student, identified as John Patrick Howard, had been dead for 12 hours after hanging himself in the basement workout room. The report said Howard had left a handwritten note on a workout bench with officers determining that it appeared to be his handwriting. Officers received a call on Wednesday just before midday at the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity house in Bowling Green, Kentucky A university spokesperson confirmed the death and encouraged students to seek support if they are affected by this loss Jace Lux, university spokesperson, confirmed the death and encouraged students to seek support if they are affected by this loss. The statement from the University said: 'We have been made aware of a student death that occurred in an off-campus fraternity house. Police continue to investigate, but no foul play is suspected at this time. 'WKU is working directly with students who may be most affected by this loss, but we encourage any students in need of counseling to seek support from the WKU. 'We extend our deepest condolences to the students family, loved ones and friends.' According to a Bowling Green Daily News report from 2017, a 58-year-old previously died at the home. Police at the time said that the fraternity had been allowing him to stay in the house while he was experiencing family difficulties. DailyMail.com has approached Lambda Chi Alpha for comment. OpenAI chief Sam Altman is reportedly seeking trillions of dollars to reshape the global semiconductor industry, and has held talks with potential investors including the UAE government. The project, which aims to boost production of the chips that power AI, could require raising as much as $7 trillion, the Wall Street Journal reported Thursday, citing people familiar with the matter. It would be a staggering and unprecedented sum in the history of venture capital, greater than the combined current market capitalizations of Apple and Microsoft, and more than the annual GDP of Japan or Germany. According to the Journal, Altman has met with several potential investors, including SoftBank Chairman Masayoshi Son and Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed al Nahyan, the UAE's head of security. Altman is reportedly looking to solve some of the biggest challenges faced by the rapidly-expanding AI sector including a shortage of the expensive computer chips needed to power large-language models like OpenAI's ChatGPT. OpenAI chief Sam Altman is reportedly seeking trillions of dollars to reshape the global semiconductor industry, and has held talks with potential investors including the UAE The global chip industry is currently dominated by just a few firms, including Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) and US-based NVIDIA. The Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) has forecast a 13.1 percent jump in global chip sales to $595.3 billion this year, compared with a drop of about 8 percent in sales in 2023. While many countries have unveiled plans to support domestic chip production, the financial support they have offered pales in comparison with the vast sums of money Altman has reportedly been discussing with investors. An OpenAI spokesperson told the Journal the company has held 'productive discussions about increasing global infrastructure and supply chains for chips, energy and data centers.' They added that they would 'continue to keep the US government informed given the importance to national priorities.' Altman has held meetings with senior government officials from the United Arab Emirates, as well as SoftBank's chief executive Masayoshi Son and representatives from TSMC, according to the Journal. Both Bloomberg and the Financial Times have also reported on some of Altman's meetings in recent weeks. According to the Journal, Altman has met with several potential investors, including SoftBank Chairman Masayoshi Son The national security adviser of the United Arab Emirates, Tahnoun bin Zayed al-Nahyan (right) was also reportedly involved in the talks Altman has floated the idea of building dozens of chip-fabrication plants in the next few years with money from Middle East investors, and then paying TSMC to build and operate them, the Journal said. After rising to prominence following the widely-publicized release of ChatGPT, Altman's fortunes have wavered in recent months. He was briefly fired from his position at the AI firm in November, only to be rehired a few days later after staff and investors rebelled. Meanwhile, OpenAI hit the $2 billion revenue milestone in December, the Financial Times reported on Friday, citing two people with knowledge of the AI start-up's finances. OpenAI believes it can more than double this figure in 2025, based on strong interest from business customers seeking to use its technology to adopt generative AI tools in the workplace, the report said. The company's annualized revenue topped $1.6 billion in December based on strong growth from its ChatGPT product, up from $1.3 billion as of mid-October, the Information had reported previously. Investors have valued the San Francisco-based startup at more than $80 billion. The White House deployed a new defense Friday as it slammed a report into the president's mishandling of classified documents that described his 'diminished faculties': Joe Biden has always been a gaffe machine. It came after a difficult 24 hours when the news media focused on damaging revelations about Biden's memory and inability to recall key dates, such as the year in which his beloved son Beau died. It only worsened during a news conference called late in the day to attack the report by Special Counsel Robert Hur. As he took questions, Biden managed to muddle the names of the presidents of Egypt and Mexico. A day later, his press secretary defended the president against accusations that he was too old at the age of 81, and emphasized his record of getting things done. 'Biden has gaffed names his entire career ... his entire career,' said Karine Jean-Pierre, quoting a piece by Atlantic writer Yair Rosenburg. 'It is not uncommon that he's done that, like many of us do.' President Joe Biden in the Oval Office of the White House on Friday. For 24 hours he has at been at the center of a storm after Special Counsel Robert Hur issued his report into Biden's mishandling of classified information. It portrays him as befuddled old man She spoke approvingly of other assessments of Biden, including former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy's verdict that he was a sharp negotiator. It was part of a multi-pronged strategy to defend Biden and undermine the findings of Special Counsel Robert Hur. After more than a year investigating how sensitive documents ended up at Biden's home and a former office, he concluded that no charges should be brought. But the legal exoneration came with considerable political damage. It described a picture of a president with 'diminished faculties in advancing age.' This week brought fresh examples for his critics to seize on. He twice muddled world leaders with predecessors who died years earlier, and in an interaction with reporters forgot the name of the terrorist group Hamas when asked about hostage negotiations. He is already the oldest president in history and is running for a second term that would keep him in office until the age of 86. The White House slammed Hur for ignoring Department of Justice regulations in adding 'gratuitous' details about Biden's demeanor, and that he had been subject to intense political pressure. Ian Sams, spokesman for the White House legal counsel's office, even threw in a distracting headline for reporters at the daily briefing. He announced that the president would be naming a taskforce to protect classified material during transitions, when documents might inadvertently end up in the wrong place. And he once again underlined the main finding that there were no charges to answer. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre quoting approvingly from an Atlantic piece that said Biden had made gaffes during his entire career Ian Sams, spokesman for the White House legal counsel's office, blamed Republican pressure on prosecutors for 'gratuitous' and inaccurate details in the report The box circled in the foreground contained documents about Afghanistan. The picture was taken in December 2022 in Biden's garage, with other household items Special Counsel Robert Hur spent a year investigating files found at President Joe Biden's home and former office. He said Biden's status as president meant he could not be prosecuted 'The special counsel's assignment when he was appointed was to determine whether any criminal conduct occurred,' said Sams. 'He found it didn't. 'That was the finding. The case is closed.' However, coverage over the preceding 24 hours had focused on other details in the report. In interviews with investigators, Biden became muddled about the dates he was vice president and could not even remember the year in which his son Beau died. The report described his 'diminished faculties in advancing age.' And it said his cavalier attitude to classified documents, such as his habit of reading sensitive files to a ghostwriter, posed a significant national security risk. 'He did not remember when he was vice president, forgetting on the first day of the interview when his term ended ("if it was 2013 - when did I stop being Vice President?"), and forgetting on the second day of the interview when his term began ("in 2009, am I still Vice President?"),' the report said. 'He did not remember, even within several years, when his son Beau died.' Vice President Kamala Harris said that as a former prosecutor, she considered Hur's comments 'gratuitous, inaccurate, and inappropriate.' And Sams said those details never should have been part of the report. He pointed the finger at Republicans who have increased pressure on prosecutors. 'They have denigrated the rule of law for political purposes,' he said. 'That reality creates a ton of pressure, and in that pressurised political environment, when the inevitable conclusion is that the facts and the evidence don't support any charges you're left to wonder why this report spends time making gratuitous and inappropriate criticisms of the president.' He said Hur should have known better. 'The Justice Department has its own sort of manual of procedures,' he said. 'And ... you're not supposed to sort of criticize unindicted conduct when you're making these determinations.' It's no longer up for debate: Joe Biden has got to go. In a hastily called press conference Thursday night, President Biden was, for the first time, questioned relentlessly by the White House press pool about his age, cognition, and fitness to serve. Finally! The ostensible headline was meant to be that the Department of Justice report had cleared Biden of mishandling classified documents. But the real headline was contained in special counsel Robert Hur's reasoning. He wrote that a jury would be unlikely to convict because Biden, 81, is 'a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory' suffering 'diminished faculties in advancing age'. Biden told investigators that he could not recall when his term as vice president ended. 'If it was 2013 when did I stop being vice president?' he asked. It's no longer up for debate: Joe Biden has got to go. In a hastily called press conference Thursday night, President Biden was, for the first time, questioned relentlessly by the White House press pool about his age, cognition, and fitness to serve. Finally! He could not recall, on the second day of his interview with prosecutors, when his term as VP began: 'In 2009, am I still Vice President?' And he could not recall when his son Beau died. Not even within a range of years. Were this a Republican president, articles of impeachment would have long ago been drafted. The 25th amendment would have been invoked. The op-eds calling for his resignation would be relentless. Where are the patriots in the Democratic party? Where are the Obamas and the Clintons to save us from Joe Biden? You can't be too impaired to prosecute yet sharp enough to be the President of the United States. At long last, it seems the Dems are waking up. Party insiders told DailyMail.com that 'it is now panic time' and 'we're going to see more and more Democrats saying the quiet part out loud'. 'It's a nightmare', one Democrat House member told NBC News. After Biden's presser, New York Times columnist and Trump-foe Maggie Haberman posted: 'Several Democratic operatives have sent panicked texts about how that press conference went.' The United States could take a page from the UK, which relies upon the so-called 'men in grey suits', a coalition of politicians who, behind closed doors, quietly tell a politician when it's time to go. We could also demand age limits. You can't run for president of the United States until you're 35 years old. Why not cap the age as well? Age limits would have saved us not just from the catastrophe that is Biden but from Donald Trump, who has displayed his own cognition issues of late. Then again, it's Trump Derangement Syndrome that has gotten us here. We've been told, over and over, that the only person who can beat Trump is Biden. Not so. In fact, the only person who will ensure a Trump win, after this unmitigated disaster, is Old Joe. He looked and sounded weak, feeble, and confused. He couldn't control the room. He looked down at the podium as reporters shouted over each other, his demeanor fatigued and overwhelmed. He answered a question about the Israeli hostage crisis in fits and starts, like a rusty car engine struggling to turn over: 'I'm of the view, as you know that the conduct of the response in the Gaza strip has been, um' here he took a long pause 'over the top.' The ostensible headline was meant to be the Department of Justice report had cleared Biden of mishandling classified documents. But the real headline was contained in the special counsel Robert Hur's reasoning. (Pictured: Classified documents in Biden's garage). He wrote that a jury would be unlikely to convict because Biden, 81, is 'a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory' suffering 'diminished faculties in advancing age'. Where are the patriots in the Democratic party? Where are the Obamas and the Clintons to save us from Joe Biden? You can't be too impaired to prosecute yet sharp enough to be the President of the United States. Worse, he said he'd spoken to 'President Sisi' the leader of Egypt about opening humanitarian aid to Gaza, but referred to him as 'the president of Mexico'. Our enemies are watching this. Is it any coincidence that Hamas, Iran, the Houthis, Russia, China and North Korea are so emboldened? Joe Biden is a walking, talking crisis. He tried to deflect the report's devastating finding that he couldn't recall when Beau died. 'How in the hell dare he raise that?' Biden growled. In all fairness to Hur, Biden talks about Beau's death all the time. It has become the fabric of his political narrative. It's fair game. 'Let me tell you something', Biden continued. 'I wear, since the day he died, every single day, the rosary he got from Our Lady of ' And here, Biden visibly blanked, waving one hand in front of his face even as he tugged at said rosary on his wrist. 'I don't need anyone, I don't need anyone, to remind me of when he passed away. When he passed away'. That is not the point. Joe Biden can no longer hide behind his personal tragedies. The stakes are too high. Unless Thursday night's press conference was an in-house attempt at a coup, enough people in Biden's inner circle thought this was a good idea in a week that saw the President, on two different days, announce that he had been speaking with dead heads of state. The media en masse should be aflame. Yet his defenders on the left outdid themselves Thursday night, displaying embarrassing levels of excuse-making and intellectual dishonesty. We'll get to that in a moment. Here's how you can tell that the DOJ report has it right: The White House press pool, which has for years ignored this elephant in the room, went after Biden with ferocity. 'How bad is your memory and can you continue on as president?' one journalist asked. 'Do you think your memory as gotten worse, Mr. President?' another said. A female reporter: 'Many American people have been watching, and they have expressed concerns about your age ' 'That is YOUR judgment,' Biden shot back, voice full of fury. 'That is YOUR judgment. That is not the judgment of the press'. But it is the judgment of the electorate. The latest national poll by NBC News found that a whopping 76 percent of voters are concerned about Biden's mental and physical ability to serve. It's Trump Derangement Syndrome that has gotten us here. We've been told, over and over, that the only person who can beat Trump is Biden. Not so. In fact, the only person who will ensure a Trump win, after this unmitigated disaster, is Old Joe. Yet here were Biden's cheerleaders on Rachel Maddow's MSNBC show, a veritable brain trust offering up all manner of accusations and excuses, shaming the special prosecutor for doing his job for saying what we all know to be true. What we all just witnessed with our own eyes during that presser. 'What is the word "elderly" doing there?' fellow anchor Lawrence O'Donnell asked. 'Uh "poor memory" what is the test of that?' Is he kidding?!? MSNBC chief legal correspondent Ari Melber: 'Legally there's no interest or relevance [to Biden's cognition],' he said. 'If it's very specifically to the mental criminal intent or mens rea Sure.' Except that the special prosecutor said, in his finding, that Biden's 'poor memory' was exactly the reason not to bring charges. To quote the report: 'It would be difficult to convince a jury that they should convict him by then a former president well into his eighties of a serious felony that requires a state of willfulness'. Another heavy lift, courtesy of the network's Chris Hayes: 'There was one adverb that just struck me', he said referring to the description of Biden as 'painfully' slow. 'I just thought: Who's in pain?... Contained in that adverb is that siren call leaping off the page'. Well, yes. And rational Americans are heeding it. Now on to the embarrassment that is Joy Reid: 'It's nasty and snarky, for no reason'. No reason! I guess national security now falls under the umbrella of minutiae over at MSNBC. Remember: Maddow and co. and her ilk at the New York Times regard themselves as the smartest people in the room. Smarter than us, and for sure smarter than Democratic party insiders who have begun to admit, openly, that Biden has to go. Now, finally, the urgency is clear. If Biden won't step aside, the party needs to remove him, pronto. Anything less isn't just unpatriotic it's dangerous. Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a furious defense of Joe Biden's leadership and blasted Special Counsel Robert Hur for taking 'gratuitous' shots at his memory lapses. Harris came to the president's defense hours after his own angry press conference, where he said his memory is 'fine' and blasted Hur's office for including information stating he couldn't remember the year his son Beau passed away. 'So the way that the President's demeanor in that report was characterized, could not be more wrong on the facts. And clearly, politically motivated. Gratuitous,' she said. 'And so I will say that when it comes to the role and responsibility of a prosecutor in a situation like that, we should expect that there would be a higher level of integrity than what we saw.' It was the most direct attack from the White House on the conduct of prosecutors let by Hur, who Biden noted Thursday is a Republican. Vice President Kamala Harris blasted 'politically motivated' and 'gratuitous' information Special Counsel Robert Hur included in his report on Biden over possession of classified documents She said during an event that she was 'glad' a reporter asked a question about it. 'Listen, I have been privileged and proud to serve as Vice President of the United States with Joe Biden as President United States. And what I saw [in] that report last night, I believe, is as a former prosecutor, the comments that were made by that prosecutor, gratuitous, inaccurate and inappropriate,' she said. Harris noted, as Biden did earlier, that the president sat for two days of interviews immediately after the Hamas attack on Israel. Her defense came even as some Biden critics said the damaging claims about Biden's memory showed he wasn't fit for office. Some even called for using the 25th Amendment for his temporary removal a process that would put Harris in charge on a temporary basis. 'October 7 Israel experienced a horrific attack and I will tell you, we got the calls. The President and myself in the hours after that occurred. It was an intense moment for the Commander in Chief of the United States of America and I was in almost every meeting with the President in the hours and days that found countless hours with the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of State, the heads of our intelligence community.' Harris issued an impassioned defense of Biden's capabilities hours after the president's own angry press conference She vouched for Biden's conduct in all of it. 'The President was in front of and on top of it all, asking questions, and requiring that America's military and intelligence community and diplomatic community would figure out and know how many people were dead. How many are Americans how many hostages is the situation stable? He was in front of it all. Coordinating and directing leaders who are in charge of America's national security, not to mention our allies around the globe,' she said. Her own emphatic defense came after Biden in his own press conference blasted prosecutors and pushed back at reporters, before misspeaking about Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi during his response to a final question. Biden Biden dropped the f-bomb in a rant to a small group of Democrat leaders after Special Counsel Robert Hur wrote in a bombshell report that the 'elderly' president couldn't remember when his son Beau died. The shocking details were included in Hur's 388-page report publicized Thursday into Biden's 'willfull mishandling' of classified documents. According to the report, Biden could not remember when his son Beau died, 'even within a few years.' The president did not react well to the embarrassing details. He cussed in front of a handful of lawmakers ahead of his speech at the House Democrats' retreat in Virginia on Thursday, sources told the Associated Press. 'You think I would f***ing forget the day my son died?' Biden reportedly fumed. Beau Biden, the president's eldest son, died in 2015 of a brain tumor. He was 46 years old at the time of his death. Biden with his son Beau, who served as Attorney General of Delaware, at the Democratic National Convention in August 2008 Then-vice president Biden standing with his family near a hearst before the funeral for his son Beau on June 6, 2015. Beau Biden died of a brain tumor at the age of 46 While Hur said in the report that he would not press charges against Biden, the report gave a scathing description of an 81-year-old president with 'diminished faculties and a faulty memory.' Biden further lashed out at the characterization of his mental capabilities and claims about his son on Thursday night in a hastily announced press conference at the White House. 'How in the hell dare he raise that? Frankly, when I was asked the question, I thought to myself, 'it was none of their damn business,'' Biden said of the special counsel. Biden appeared to get emotional when speaking about his son, noting he wore his son's rosary every day since Beau died. 'Every Memorial Day we hold a service remembering him, attended by friends and family and the people who loved him,' Biden told the room of reporters. 'I don't need anyone. I don't need anyone to remind me when he passed away.' Biden, speaking at the White House on Thursday, said he thought it was 'none of their damn business' when investigators asked about his son Beau in the classified documents probe Biden reportedly fumed about the classified doc report mention of him forgetting when his son died to a group of House Democrats before speaking to House Democrats in VA An image from the Biden classified documents report showing a damaged box where classified documents were found in the garage of President Biden in 2022 Throughout Biden's fiery remarks on Thursday, he continued to push back on special counsel's scathing description of his mental acuity, responding to a question at one point, 'my memory is fine.' Biden pointed out on Thursday that he had sat down for five hours of in-person interviews over two days for the investigation directly after the Hamas terror attack on Israel on October 7. 'I was in the middle of handling an international crisis,' Biden said. The Year of the Dragon is here. Celebrations for the Lunar New Year will kick off this weekend, and factories across Asia will be halting production for the holiday. Though the pause has become a regular fixture of global commerce, every year U.S. home retailers fret about the impact it will have. The issue is more than just academic. Even though Mexico recently surpassed China as the top exporter to the U.S., home furnishings products are still predominantly sourced there and Vietnam and Taiwan, all countries where the Lunar calendar is used. And though other big manufacturing nationslike India, Pakistan, Indonesia and the Philippinesmay not be as observant in such celebrations, China still sets the pace in the global importing game. Traditionally, Chinas Lunar New Year celebration stretches on for weeks as massive numbers of workers travel from the urban areas where theyre employed back to their rural hometowns, shutting down production and shipping. As a brand, if you didnt get your goods out of the country before the holiday, well, youd just have to wait. In recent years, the panic among American retailers in advance of the manufacturing juggernauts annual shutdown has by and large eased. But there are still those in the business who wake up with night sweats, wondering if their goods will arrive as expected. In 2024, there are four good reasons to remain calm. Timing: This years celebration comes later than usual, beginning on February 10 (compared to January 22 last year and February 1 the year before). Thats a big factor impacting American importers schedules. With this later timing, chances are that most of what needs to be in stores for the spring has already left China and is on its way. Chinas diminished role: Even as it remains the most common origin of home goods, China no longer dominates the marketplace as it once did. Particularly for furniture, production has moved to Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines and even Mexico. Categories like decorative accessories, gifts and housewares have seen similar shifts. After political battles over tariffs and the logistical nightmares of the pandemic, U.S. importers have balanced out their sourcing models and are not nearly as dependent on China. Soft business: When the home business exploded during Covid, nearly every American company was desperate for goods, and the several-week-long pause in shipments was devastating for a supply chain that had no built-in buffers. Now business is much softer, and shipments coming in weeks later than normal are not such a deal-breaker for sales. Some American importers will also welcome the chance to work off current inventories. Factory inventories are still high: Even if inventory levels at American retailers and importers are pretty much back to normal after the post-pandemic excess, that may not be the case with the Asian factories that supply them. Some executives who have traveled to China recently say they are still seeing factories overloaded with goods. In these cases, suppliers are only too happy to shut down their production for a few weekssometimes up to a month if the inventory situation is particularly dire. In other words, this season is always a source of anxiety for American businesses, but theres good reason to believe that they wont get burned by the Year of the Dragon. Fingers crossed! ____________ Warren Shoulberg is the former editor in chief for several leading B2B publications. He has been a guest lecturer at the Columbia University Graduate School of Business; received honors from the International Furnishings and Design Association and the Fashion Institute of Technology; and been cited by The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Washington Post, CNN and other media as a leading industry expert. His Retail Watch columns offer deep industry insights on major markets and product categories. Democratic strategist Paul Begala joked Friday morning on CNN that he 'slept like a baby' after President Joe Biden's classified documents debacle. Begala, who served as a top adviser to President Bill Clinton, revealed, 'I woke up every two hours and wet the bed.' Biden's reelection prospects were rattled Thursday with the release of Special Counsel Robert Hur's classified documents report, which referenced the president's 'diminished faculties' and said a jury would find him 'a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory.' 'This is terrible for Democrats. And anybody with a functioning brain knows that,' Begala said. Begala noted that Biden 'can't pivot to being 45 again' but he can go on the attack. Democratic strategist Paul Begala joked Friday morning on CNN that he 'slept like a baby' after President Joe Biden 's classified documents debacle. 'I woke up every two hours and wet the bed,' said veteran Democratic strategist Paul Begala (bottom right) during a CNN interview Friday morning, commenting on Special Counsel Robert Hur's classified documents report 'Instead of calling a press conference and saying, "I really am sharp," you attack the other guy,' the longtime Democratic fixer advised. 'So everything with Biden is not "I am great" but "the other guys is really damaging, dangerous, a threat."' The president responded to Hur's report Thursday night with a hastily organized press conference, in which he angrily pushed back on the assertions - especially that he didn't remember when son Beau Biden died. But during the Q&A he also referred to the president of Egypt being from 'Mexico,' providing more fodder that the 81-year-old is losing a step. 'I think Biden made it worse, no question about it,' Begala said at one point during the interview, though he also clarified that the press conference wasn't totally the wrong call. 'Well, no I want to see more Joe Biden, and the gaffes are built in, but instead of simply saying, "I'm OK," he just simply - he needs to be on the attack 24/7 for the next 269 days.' Begala also saw a missed opportunity in not more directly attacking Hur. 'This Republican counsel was a Trump appointee to the U.S. attorney for Maryland,' Begala said. He also pointed out that Hur clerked for a 'right-wing judge' as well as conservative Supreme Court Chief Justice William Rehnquist, who's appointment Biden voted against as a U.S. seantor. 'This guy has donated to Republicans, he's a partisan and the only job he had was to indict or not indict,' Begala said. Instead, Begala complained, 'the only thing he didn't add was a legal disclaimer, that this is a political ad in support of Donald Trump. It was a total cheapshot.' 'What the hell was this guy doing editorializing way, way out of his league?' Begala mused. 'And picking the most damaging political attack he could wage on Joe Biden.' 'I think it smells,' the longtime Democratic strategist added. The Church of England will 'happily engage' with the Government around its work with asylum seekers, a leading official said, as a diocese branded claims by an ex-vicar about a 'conveyor belt of baptisms' as 'nonsense'. The case of Clapham alkali attack suspect Abdul Ezedi, who successfully challenged his asylum refusal after converting to Christianity, has led to allegations people are converting to Christianity to help them secure their stay in the UK. Ezedi is believed to have been supported in his claim by someone from a Baptist church, rather than the Church of England, but the case has prompted strong debate on the issue of conversions overall. A Conservative MP this week accused the Church of issuing 'secret guidance for clergy supporting asylum applications' and the Archbishop of Canterbury of 'scamming' the taxpayer. Former immigration minister Robert Jenrick has spoken of conversions 'aided and abetted by often well-meaning but naive vicars and priests', while ex-home secretary Suella Braverman said during her time in office she 'became aware of churches around the country facilitating industrial-scale bogus asylum claims'. Abdul Ezedi, the Alkali attack suspect, (pictured) is believed to have 'gone into' the River Thames, the Metropolitan Police said He is believed to have gone in at Chelsea Bridge in west London The Diocese of Durham said claims that asylum seekers are on a 'conveyor belt of baptisms' to win the right to stay in the UK are nonsense The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, this week told of his disappointment at the 'mischaracterisation of the role of churches and faith groups in the asylum system'. The topic of asylum and the Church will not be formally debated at the upcoming meeting of the General Synod - known as the church's parliament - later this month, but could be raised by a member for 'some discussion', said William Nye. Mr Nye, Synod's secretary general, told reporters at a briefing on Friday: 'The agenda for the General Synod is set by the business committee of the General Synod, which will have set the agenda a little while ago to enable papers to be prepared. 'So as you'll see, if you look at the agenda, there isn't a formal item on the topic that you raise about asylum. It's possible that it may come up, a member of Synod could ask a question in Synod questions, which would make it possible for there to be some discussion, but there isn't room for a formal debate.' A Home Office minister this week said training for asylum caseworkers in assessing the credibility of a religious conversion is being rolled out. The Church said there has not been any direct contact from the Government on this yet but Mr Nye said the Church will 'happily engage' with the Government on any matters of faith and religious literacy. Forensic police at the scene on Wednesday night near Clapham following the attack CCTV footage of Abdul Ezedi (bottom right wearing a black jacket), the suspect in the Clapham alkaline substance attack, crossing over Chelsea Bridge He told the briefing: 'We're always happy to work with the Government on anything and while, as the Bishop of Chelmsford has said, actual decisions on asylum are for the Home Office or, if contested, then for the relevant courts - nonetheless, if the Home Office wants to work with the Church of England on any matter like this we'll happily engage with them.' The comments come as the Diocese of Durham strongly disputed comments made by Matthew Firth, a former vicar at a Darlington church, who told The Telegraph that he 'had to put a stop to the conveyor belt and veritable industry of asylum baptisms that was going on'. A spokesman for the diocese said: 'His claims of the church being a 'conveyor belt' of asylum seeker baptisms are nonsense.' He said they had checked church records and found a total of 15 baptisms since 2014 of people who 'may have been asylum seekers', out of a total of around 80 in that period. He said Mr Firth had not reported 'anything amiss' during his 'brief spell' at the church and, had he done so, allegations 'would have been taken seriously and investigated'. The spokesman said the diocese is 'proud of the valuable work all our churches in Darlington do to ensure asylum seekers and refugees are welcomed'. Meanwhile, Synod, which is taking place in London from February 23 to 27, will consider issues of biodiversity, safeguarding and progress on its work around blessings for same-sex couples. It will also discuss racial justice, and the war in Ukraine and its wider impact. MSNBC host Rachel Maddow attempted to counter claims President Biden is too old to lead the White House by bringing up that he has the ability to ride a bike - despite the embarrassing stumble he suffered in June 2022. The issue of Biden's age shot back into focus this week following a damning special prosecutor conclusion that he mishandled classified materials, but was perceived as too old for a jury to convict. It said that a jury would probably conclude that he had 'diminished faculties' and was a 'well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory.' In a discussion on Maddow's evening show about the case, commentator Chris Hayes made the point that Biden's age is a politically sticky subject as he can't rebut the fact that he is 81-years-old. 'He rides a bike!' Maddow interjected, a remark that was quickly mocked online. MSNBC host Rachel Maddow attempted to counter claims President Biden is too old to lead the White House by bringing up that he has the ability to ride a bike on Friday Maddow's remark that Biden can ride a bike was mocked, as many brought up a June 2022 incident where the president fell off his bike while on vacation Following the release of the special prosecutor's report on Thursday night, many remarked that Biden made matters worse as he held an impromptu press conference. After proclaiming, 'I know what the hell I'm doing!', the president mixed up the presidents of Egypt and Mexico in another gaffe. And with polls showing Biden's age is becoming an increasingly important issue with potential 2024 voters, Hayes admitted it could be the president's undoing. 'We should just be clear here, age is the central narrative question here that this all revolves around,' he said, noting the age factor in how the charges were never brought against Biden. 'In terms of its political repercussions, the way the news happened today, and the questions being asked of him by multiple figures there. 'And in the end, what makes it such a useful political tool for people that want Donald Trump to be elected, or want (Biden) not to be re-elected, is that the fact of his age is not something you can rebut.' Hayes compared the attack line to another popular one from the political right, that Biden may be too liberal, to argue Biden can't necessarily talk his way out of it. 'If someone says, 'you're too far left', you can tact to the center,' he said. 'But the man is 80-years-old!' Despite the widely-circulated incident in June 2020 when Biden, who is actually 81 years old, fell from his bike after appearing to get his foot stuck, Maddow felt his history of being able to ride a bike qualifies him as young enough to lead. After grinning at the quip, Hayes concluded: 'He is the age he is - it's a very useful political attack for that reason.' It is far from the first time Maddow has appeared to show her preference for the Democratic side of Washington, and recently came under fire for refusing to air Donald Trump's victory speeches because they are filled with 'untrue things.' Maddow's quip came after commentator Chris Hayes argued age is a politically sticky issue for Biden, because the 81-year-old 'is the age he is' Joe Biden pictured falling off his bike during ride near his Rehoboth Beach home in Delaware in June 2022, which came as he and his wife celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary It was far from Biden's only such gaffe, including a stumble as he bounded up the stairs of Air Force One in March 2021 Maddow's remark drew sarcastic responses online, with some feeling she was trivializing the important issue of Biden's perceived competency. 'So riding a bike is the only prerequisite to being president of the United States!' said conservative commentator Kathleen Winchell. Another said: 'My three-year-old rode a bike too.' 'The standards for the Presidency sure have cratered,' added another. 'He can ride a bike is now a qualifier.' It came after Biden angrily addressed the nation on Thursday night to condemn the special prosecutor's conclusion on his perceived advanced age, telling Americans 'I know what the hell I am doing!' and insisting that 'my memory is fine.' He continued in the hastily-prepared press conference: 'Take a look at what I have done since becoming president.' 'No one thought I could pass any of the things I got passed. How did that happen? I guess I just forgot what was going on...' However, moments later he committed another startling gaffe, referring to the Egyptian leader as the President of Mexico. The 388-page report by Special Counsel Robert Hur confirmed he would not be charged for keeping classified documents in his garage. But it said that was because a jury would probably conclude he had 'diminished faculties' and was a 'well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory.' On Thursday night, Biden fumed at Special Counsel Robert Hur's accusation that the Scranton-native didn't know when his son Beau died - part of the damning conclusion that a jury would probably conclude he had 'diminished faculties' and was a 'well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory' The president was particularly animated with Hur's inclusion of the claim that he couldn't remember the timing of his son Beau's death. Hur's report said: 'He did not remember, even within several years, when his son Beau died.' Biden brought up the topic himself, fuming: 'There's even reference that I don't remember when my son died. How in the hell dare he raise that? I don't need anyone, I don't need anyone, to remind me of when he passed away. 'Frankly, when I was asked the question, I thought to myself, wasn't any of their damned business.' He also said reports about his 'willful' retention of documents were 'misleading.' At one point he yelled: 'I did not share classified information! I did not!' A retired senior detective has blasted the decision not to punish two officers who sat watching television on a woman's sofa for four hours after being called to her home. Ex-Scotland Yard undercover officer Peter Bleksley said the officers should at least be admonished by their superiors and put on the least attractive duties for a 'considerable amount of time'. He was speaking as new video emerged showing how the pair of Greater Manchester Police officers sat watching Come Dine With Me and Netflix. They were 'chilling' at the home of 21-year-old Abbygail Lawton from Wigan, who was in the midst of a mental health crisis. Concerns for Ms Lawton's well-being had been raised by the ambulance service and the pair had been sent to her home as backup. The two police officers were caught on video 'chilling' at the home of a missing woman An officer was filmed on Ms Lawton's CCTV making themselves at home with their feet up. Another officer was seen picking up a dumbbell weights in the home The officers were 'chilling' at the home of 21-year-old Abbygail Lawton from Wigan, who was in the midst of a mental health crisis After searching the property and finding she was out, they were told to wait at the house in case she returned. But they were filmed on Ms Lawton's CCTV making themselves at home with their feet up. One of them also was also seen using her dumbbell weights. The officers have been told their behaviour 'did not breach the standards of professional behaviour' by GMP's Professional Standards but they should reflect on how they had appeared. Today experienced retired officer Mr Bleksley told MailOnline: 'I think it was utterly disrespectful. 'The Police are paid out of the public purse and what we hear out of senior officers these days is complaints at the lack of resources and how they can't spare manpower to deal with shoplifting, car thefts and burglaries. 'We'll... here we have a couple of officers sitting on their backsides watching Come Dine With Me on someone else's sofa for four hours. 'These officers should have obviously known better themselves but where was the supervision? I'd say there was an appalling lack of it here. 'To escape any kind of punishment and instead told merely to 'reflect' on their behaviour is not a good look in the slightest. Ex-Scotland Yard undercover officer Peter Bleksley said the officers should at least be admonished by their superiors and put on the least attractive duties for a 'considerable amount of time' 'Had that happened when I was an officer, I suspect the guilty parties' feet would not have touched the ground and they would have had what we call 'words of advice' from the Inspector or Sergeant. 'That would have meant making the tea or being sent on school crossing patrols for a considerable amount of time. I think that should apply with these two officers. 'What they have being caught doing isn't crime of the century but it's a terrible example to set and seemingly at odds with modern day policing which appears to be increasingly focused on perception. 'GMP have a new Chief Constable in Stephen Watson who I know wants to reintroduce standards of appearance and discipline. He will be irritated by this more so that I am.' The new owners of The Body Shop have called in insolvency administrators just weeks after it bought the chain in a 207 million deal. The chain, founded by the late Dame Anita Roddick who passed away in 2007, was sold by Brazilian cosmetics chain Natura & Co to Aurelius Group in November in a 207 million deal, which saw the investment group take on the chain's 250 British stores. Aurelius, which also owns sportswear retailer Footasylum and the now-bankrupt healthcare chain Lloydspharmacy, is now preparing to appoint FRP Advisory to handle the insolvency process of the company's UK operations, Sky News reports. An insider told Sky that the move would likely result in a significant number of The Body Shop's British stores to close, though were quick to stress that it was premature to speculate on exact numbers. They added that the insolvency of its UK arm would not impact the operation of its stores in the rest of the world. The Body Shop, founded by the late Dame Anita Roddick who passed away in 2007, was sold by Brazilian cosmetics chain Natura & Co to Aurelius Group in November Last week, it was revealed that Aurelius, which bought the company in 2017 from L'Oreal for around 850 million, handed over much of its Europe and Asia enterprises to an unnamed 'international family office' as part of its turnaround strategy for the long-troubled health retailer, which directly employs around 10,000 people across the world. And just yesterday, it was revealed that The Body Shop's former owners Natura wrote to Aurelius to find out why former employees haven't yet received bonuses worth 2million and 3 million that were promised as part of their severance. RetailWeek reported that 20 former Body Shop employees are collectively owed the sum of money that they have still not been paid. The Body Shop was first set up in 1976, opening its first store in Brighton, with the aim of providing health products made with 'ethically sourced and naturally-based ingredients' that were not tested on animals. Just seven years later, the business had grown to 138 stores, thanks to a franchising model that saw a rapid rise in brick-and-mortar locations. In 1984, the company was publicly listed in London, and its stock price by nearly 11,000% in the first eight years of its listing. By 1994, nine out of ten Body Shop locations were franchises. In 2006, The Body Shop was sold to L'Oreal for more than 650 million, a move that was considered controversial at the time given the French company's policy of animal testing. Both Aurelius and FRP Advisory declined to comment when approach by MailOnline. MailOnline has contacted The Body Shop for comment. More to follow. A 51-year-old man has been arrested for allegedly exposing two Georgia police officers to potentially poisoned paperwork that left them hospitalized. Little Gaston Stone was taken into custody and has been charged with two counts of aggravated assault against an officer after he reportedly brought in paperwork laced with a drug-like substance on February 6. According to the arrest warrant, the substance left both Smyrna Police Department officers with 'extreme fatigue, chest pain, chest tightness, dizziness and difficulty in breathing.' Stone allegedly had walked into the departments headquarters, recorded his visit on a tablet device and spoke about Georgia Governor Brian Kemp. Little Gaston Stone was taken into custody and has been charged with two counts of aggravated assault against an officer after police say he brought in paperwork laced with a drug-like substance on February 6 Stone allegedly had walked into the departments headquarters, recorded his visit on a tablet device and spoke about Georgia Governor Brian Kemp He then went on to hand some paperwork, meant for Police Chief Keith Zgnoc, to the victims, according to the warrant. About five minutes later, two officers reported reported feeling fatigue and respiratory distress and rushed to the hospital. 'The Officers took possession of two pieces of paper, and Mr. Stone quickly exited the building before walking North on Atlanta Rd. 'Approximately five minutes later, both Officers began to experience respiratory distress and extreme fatigue. They were both transported to the hospital, where they remain with ongoing symptoms. 'The FBI has taken custody of the letter presented by Mr. Stone for additional testing,' the warrant reads. He then went on to hand some paperwork, meant for Police Chief Keith Zgnoc (pictured), to the victims, according to the warrant The accused was already on 12 months probation for a separate case when he allegedly endangered the officers' lives Stone was arrested the same day and detained without bond at the Cobb jail until his release today. But this is not his first brush with the law. The accused was already on 12 months probation for a separate case when he allegedly endangered the officers' lives. In October 2023, Stone was placed on probation after he plead guilty to terroristic threats and in April 2021, he was indicated for threatening to blow up a building. In 2004, Stone was given credit for serving a year in jail after pleading guilty to aggravated assault and battery, with nine years to be served on probation. The coroner in the case of Lacey Fletcher has said he has never a homicide like it, describing how she had 'rotted in her own body'. Dr. Ewell Bickham had been responsible for examining Fletcher's body after the 36-year-old was found dead and fused to the couch in the home she shared with her parents. Parents Sheila and Clay Fletcher, both 66, were arrested and indicted on murder charges after the discovery in their home in Slaughter, Louisiana, in January 2022. The Fletchers had spent nearly 18 months denying second-degree murder after being indicted twice by a grand jury in Clinton, Louisiana, and faced the prospect of life in prison without parole if convicted at a trial due to start this week. On Monday, they agreed to withdraw their previous not guilty pleas to second-degree murder and formally agreed to plead guilty to manslaughter. Speaking to Ashleigh Banfield on NewsNation, Dr Bickham recalled the day he was first called to the home. Bickham said: 'When I walked in, the house smelled of a stench of, it smelled like a sewer, or septic tank and also a smell of death. I've never smelled that in my life.' Dr. Ewell, seen here, had been responsible for examining the body of Fletcher after she was found fused to the couch in the home she shared with her parents A high school photo of Lacey Ellen Fletcher, 36, taken when she was 16. The coroner believes she was left on the couch for 12 years Images captured of the couch that Lacey had been fused to show the condition it was found in, with experts summarizing that she didn't move for 12 years He continued: 'I've dealt with decomposed bodies. I've dealt with all sorts of death, degradation, whatever, never experienced this in all of my career. 'Clay and Sheila Fletcher were standing there. Clay was staying there, emotionless. The mom had her head between her knees. 'I saw a tear or two. To the left was the living room where Lacey was. I immediately went through there. I didn't stop to socialize with the parents. 'I've never seen a homicide like this. I have never seen an individual, a human being, literally tortured and allowed to die while she is alive. 'I've never seen that my life. I've seen decomposed bodies of someone that drowns and you find the body a week later. 'That's one thing and they're decomposed. Lacey did not decompose. She rotted in her own body, in that hole in that sewer, in the couch.' Images captured of the couch that Lacey had been fused to show the condition it was found in, with experts summarizing that she didn't move for 12 years. Bickham added: 'The only thing I saw the small bag of hard candy, and that was it. That's the only nourishment she probably had. 'I'll just be not trying to be too graphic, but in her stomach, she had the yellow foam from the sofa, and feces. So you take it from there.' Parents Sheila and Clay Fletcher, both now 66, were arrested and indicted on murder charges after the discovery in their home in Slaughter, Louisiana, in January 2022, Bickham said throughout his career he had never seen anything quite like what he discovered inside the home Bickham added that Lacey had the foam from the inside of the couch in the stomach, and was riddled with maggots A photo of the two-story home located on Tom Drive in Slaughter where Lacey lived with her parents Besides describing the condition that he found Fletcher, Bickham said he believed her parents had not been staying at the home at the time. He added: 'I don't believe they were living in the home. Now, I'm still working on that, and some investigators are working more on that subject itself as we speak. 'I don't think they were living in the house. But you could not live in the house. Nobody could stand the stench, to be honest with you. I think there was something adjacent.' Earlier this week, Clay and Sheila Fletcher dramatically decided to switch their pleas and admitted their guilt over the death of Lacey. Sheila's lawyer Steven Moore made an impassioned defense outside the courtroom following the hearing. 'They loved their daughter to death,' he said, adding that they are 'completely remorseful' about her death. Attorney Steven Moore (right) said the couple 'loved their daughter to death' Sheila Fletcher was consoled as she went into court in Clinton to plead no contest to manslaughter They had spent nearly 18 months denying second-degree murder after being indicted twice by a grand jury and faced the prospect of life in prison without parole. After the hearing, Sheila Fletcher's attorney made a long and impassioned defense of the couple. Steven Moore said the Fletchers never intended to harm their daughter. 'They were negligent, yes. 'It is clear they were negligent. They loved her to death, that is the true statement with the Fletchers. They loved their daughter to death,' he said. 'When you look back at it, you wonder, why? How could this happen? It did happen. But at no point did Sheila or Clay Fletcher ever have a single intent to harm their daughter. They loved their daughter to a fault.' Moore cited Lacey's autism by adding: 'Anyone with handicapped children can tell you those things can happen. 'This is an extreme example of how that happens. They have taken responsibility. Now they look back they can't believe they got to the position they're in.' He admitted: 'The things that happened to Lacey are horrible. But they cared for her daily. Sheila Fletcher would come home at lunch every day to care and eat lunch with her daughter every single day. 'She slept on the couch, with her daughter every night.' An undated photo of Clay and Sheila Fletcher standing in front of their Christmas tree Lacey attended the former Brownsville Baptist Academy in Louisiana where she was featured (top left) on the school volleyball team Of the couple's current mental state, he said: 'They are completely remorseful. Their life revolved around Lacey Fletcher. They did nothing but Lacey Fletcher. They lived for Lacey Fletcher. 'Everybody says, how come this and how come that? They were blinded by her handicap and they tried to appease that handicap as best they could and this is the result. It's terrible, but that's what happened.' Documents obtained by DailyMail.com reveal Lacey had bone visible from severe wounds and sores when found. The documents also revealed that she was infested with maggots while she was still alive. This infestation included the area around her genitals. Lacey had attended Brownsville Baptist Academy where she featured in the volleyball team, but was homeschooled after 9th grade. At the age of 14, her mother took her to clinical psychologist Donald Hoppe saying she suffered 'severe social anxiety', according to a letter from Bickham and entered into court records. Former classmates said Lacey began to retreat into isolation in her teens as her autism accelerated and she was home schooled after 9th grade Sheila shared information from another psychologist that 'Lacey had a below average IQ and suffered from autism,' said Dr Hoppe. He saw her for 12 sessions between 2000 and 2002. In 2010 both Fletchers returned 'and told me Lacey was refusing to leave the house and in fact had begun to refuse to leave the living room of the house'. Neighbors of the Fletchers told DailyMail.com in 2022 that they had not seen Lacey for 15 years. Robert Blades, 61, said she was 'just a normal fun kid' before vanishing from view. Blades said he asked Clay Fletcher about his daughter's whereabouts in 2017 because he hadn't seen her for so long. I actually thought maybe she got married and moved on,' he said. 'I said, how is Lacey? How's she doing? Has she moved off? Went to college or what? 'He replied, oh no, she's still here. She's fine. And then changed the subject. And that's it. He didn't explain why we hadn't seen her at all.' Documents obtained by DailyMail.com reveal autistic Lacey had bone visible from severe wounds and sores when found and she was infested with maggots while she was still alive. This infestation included the area around her genitals. Forensic pathologist Dana Troxclairs autopsy report described her body covered in pressure ulcers and suffering chronic bone infection with polarizable fibers (most likely fibers from the couch) and maggots embedded in the exposed surface of the bones. Dr Troxclair wrote: Maggots were present in the perineum and areas of the decubitus ulcers. If the maggots would have appeared after death, there would have been at least a minimal presence of eggs or larvae in the region of the eyes, ears, or nose. These areas, together with any wounds, are the preferred spots for colonization. There was no evidence of decomposition at the time of the autopsy; therefore, it was determined that the maggots were present prior to death. The forensic pathologist headed one of her findings severe chronic neglect and said Lacey suffered from chronic protein malnutrition and acute starvation. She was 5ft 1ins tall but weighed 96lbs at death, said the report. Dr Troxclair, of the Jefferson Parish Forensic Center in Harvey, Louisiana, said there was fecal matter, both crusted and fresh, present on the body including face, chest, abdomen, perineum, and extremities. The medical expert described Lacey as extremely dirty, matted/knotted hair with feces and maggots. There were insect bites to her left ear, face and arms that happened before she died. He said her hair was 'extremely matted into a 24 x 18-inch knotted ball and cannot be straightened. 'The scalp is red and crusted, the expert wrote. The ears are extremely dirty with crusted feces and small abrasions/lesions on the left ear due to antemortem insect activity. The fingernails are natural, long and extremely dirty with underlying fecal material the toenails are natural, long, curled under and extremely dirty with underlying fecal material. Cause of death was sepsis due to a chain reaction of conditions the bone infection osteomyelitis which was due to the ulcers. These were as a result of poor hygiene, prolonged immobility and malnutrition as a result of severe chronic neglect of a special needs individual, wrote Dr Troxclair. Neighbors revealed Lacey (center) appeared as 'a fun, normal kid' before becoming more isolated from her neighborhood friends from the age of about 14 Police were called to the Fletchers' home on January 3, 2022 by Sheila Fletcher who told the East Feliciana Parish 911 service that Lacey had stopped breathing. The mother said her daughter had been sick but it was a long story, according to the 911 report which was filed into court. When Slaughter Police officer Daulton Corban arrived, Clay was performing ineffective chest compressions, on Lacey, who was sideways with her back pressed against the couch, said an East Feliciana Sheriffs Department incident report obtained by DailyMail.com. Lacey was wearing just a t-shirt and it appeared that there was excessive urine and feces underneath the victim and on the floor, added the report written by Lt Kevin Garig. It continued: The wounds in the buttocks and head area were so severe that bone was visible. Based on a hole created in the couch cushion where she sat, it appeared that the victim had been.. in the position for quite some time. The Marine Corp released the identities of all five Marines killed when their CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter went down in the mountains close to San Diego on Tuesday. The five men have been identified as: Lance Cpl. Donovan Davis, 21, of Olathe, Kansas; Sgt. Alec Langen, 23, of Chandler, Arizona; Capt. Benjamin Moulton, 27, of Emmett, Idaho; Capt. Jack Casey, 26, of Dover, New Hampshire; and Capt. Miguel Nava, 28, of Traverse City, Michigan. The young men were all assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing at Miramar. The military confirmed Thursday that all five Marines were killed when their helicopter went down during stormy weather, and efforts were underway to recover their remains. The aircraft took off from Creech Air Force Base near Las Vegas , Nevada, on Tuesday night and was heading to the Marine Corps Air Station in Miramar when it went missing. The Marine Corp released the identities of all five Marines killed when their CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter went down in the mountains close to San Diego on Tuesday The young men were all assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing at Miramar The military confirmed Thursday that all five Marines were killed when their helicopter went down during stormy weather, and efforts were underway to recover their remains They were conducting routine flight training when the accident occurred, said Marine Corps spokesperson Capt. Stephanie Leguizamon. The CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter was last reported in the Cleveland National Forest, near the US-Mexico border and about 35 miles east of its destination. It was discovered Wednesday morning near the mountain community of Pine Valley, an hours drive from San Diego. President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill issued a statement following the news. The Navy helicopter took off from Nevada to San Diego on Tuesday night A U.S. Marine carries rescue gear at a command center Wednesday in Kitchen Creek, CA Authorities are still working to recover the Marines' remains. Sgt. Alec Langen is pictured right 'Jill and I are heartbroken at the loss of five U.S. Marines, whose aircraft crashed while flying from Nevada to California during a routine training mission. As the Department of Defense continues to assess what occurred, we extend our deepest condolences to their families, their squadron, and the U.S. Marine Corps as we grieve the loss of five of our nations finest warriors.' 'Our service members represent the very best of our nationand these five Marines were no exception. Today, as we mourn this profound loss, we honor their selfless service and ultimate sacrificeand reaffirm the sacred obligation we bear to all those who wear the uniform and their families.' In a heartbreaking interview with ABC San Diego, Steve and Caryn Langen, the parents of 23-year-old Sgt. Alec Langen, revealed that their son got married a little over a month before his death. It was his new bride who told his parents that their son had not returned home following the accident. 'He died with people he wanted to be with, doing what he loved and wanted to do,' his father told the station through tears. Their son, a native of Arizona , had been serving as crew chief on the doomed flight. The grieving, a former Marine himself, father added: 'I would give anything to be able to trade places.' In his interview, Steve Langen revealed that he too served on the same helicopter as his son for the Marines between 1986 and 1995. 'We are so thankful to the San Diego responders that went up there and searched for them and found that crew. Without them, they wouldn't be coming home,' his mother said. Sgt. Alec Langen pictured on his father's Facebook page. He was 23 years old Alec married his wife Casey in early January and were planning to move to North Carolina where he was going to be stationed In a heartbreaking interview with ABC San Diego, Steve and Caryn Langen revealed that their son got married a little over a month before his death 'He died with people he wanted to be with, doing what he loved and wanted to do,' his father said through tears It was his new bride who told his parents that their son had not returned home following the accident The helicopter was heading to the Marine Corps Air Station in Miramar, known for being the home of the Top Gun program - and the movie of the same name According to a Facebook post from his mother, Alec married his wife Casey in early January and were planning to move to North Carolina where he was going to be stationed. Citing the 'hazardous terrain and weather' at the site, Ford said the ground recovery efforts will take place over coming weeks as an investigation into the crash is conducted. Per military policy, the names of the Marines are not released until 24 hours after all next-of-kin have been notified. 'It is with a heavy heart and profound sadness that I share the loss of five outstanding Marines from 3d Marine Aircraft Wing and the Flying Tigers while conducting a training flight last night,' said Gen. Michael J. Borgschulte, commanding general of 3rd MAW. 'These pilots and crewmembers were serving a calling greater than self and were proud to do so. We will forever be grateful for their call to duty and selfless service. To the families of our fallen Marines, we send our deepest condolences and commit to ensuring your support and care during this incredibly difficult time.' A Wyoming state lawmaker has proposed a bill that would require all blood donations from COVID-vaccinated people to be labeled as such. State Rep. Sarah Penn sponsored a bill that would make it mandatory for all blood from vaccinated donors to be specifically labeled - and allow those who choose so to reject it in non-emergency situations, as reported by Cowboy State Daily. 'For various reasons, many people have purposefully strived to keep the mRNA therapies out of their bodies, even to the point that some lost their livelihoods,' Penn told Cowboy State Daily. 'Their concerns are warranted.' It comes after a wave some skeptical unvaccinated Americans are refusing life-saving blood transfusions from vaccinated donors. They fear that the blood from someone who has received a COVID-19 vaccine is 'tainted' in some way, as they cite concerns that it is linked to strokes and blood cuts, among other health issues. State Rep. Sarah Penn sponsored a bill that would make it mandatory for all blood from vaccinated donors to be specifically labeled It comes after a wave some skeptical unvaccinated Americans are refusing life-saving blood transfusions from vaccinated donors There is no evidence to suggest the vaccine leads to any health issues, despite a very small percentage of documented side effects. But, because of these fears, which are founded on misinformation, some anti-vaxxers have asked physicians to give them blood from an unvaccinated person. At the moment, there are varying deferral times for donating blood following the COVID-19 vaccination, ranging from no deferral at all to up to 28 days, depending on the health organizations. Given that 70 percent of the US population is vaccinated, the bill would make it harder for Wyoming residents to get access to blood donations. While the Red Cross said last month that it is facing a blood shortage emergency, the Red Cross does not collect blood in Wyoming, so its supply would not be affected. Last year, Montana state rep. Greg Kmetz proposed a bill that would ban blood donations from Covid-19-vaccinated people, but it died in committee Moreover, it's unlikely a Penn's bill, known as House Bill 115, will pass the state House, as there are medical privacy concerns as well the extra work it would mean for health care providers. Still, she defended the bill, telling Cowboy State Daily: 'It simply allows better monitoring, and it allows people to have some choice when it comes to non-emergent transfusions. 'First, do no harm.' Last year, Montana state rep. Greg Kmetz proposed a bill that would ban blood donations from Covid-19-vaccinated people, but it died in committee. The food items listed on the secret menu at In-N-Out Burger are more extensive than foodies might think. Customers hoping to get a not-so-well-known item from In-N-Out Burger can order meals off the menu if they know the right lingo, like the Flying Dutchman and Roadkill Fries. The Flying Dutchman includes two pieces of cheese and burgers without the bread, and the Roadkill Fries are topped off with tiny pieces of burger. The fast-food chain also has special terms that can enhance burgers, fries, and drink preferences. All the information you'd ever need about the iconic secret menu can be found in the 2023 book The Ins-N-Outs of In-N-Out Burger, written by the restaurant chain's president Lynsi Snyder. Customers hoping to get a not-so-well-known item can go to In-N-Out Burger and order foods like the Flying Dutchman and Roadkill Fries The Flying Dutchman includes two pieces of cheese and burgers without the bread, and the Roadkill Fries are topped off with tiny pieces of burger In-N-Out Burger was founded by Harry Snyder, who opened the first restaurant in 1948 at Francisquito and Garvey in Baldwin Park, California. Snyder's wife, Esther, was in charge of the accounting for the restaurant. Now, their granddaughter is the fast-food chain's president who oversees more than 400 In-N-Out Burgers nationwide. In-N-Out Burger celebrated its 75th-anniversary last year, which led to reporter Andy Riesmeyer and In-N-Out Burger expert George Geary celebrating the chain's accomplishment by trying the Flying Dutchman and Lemon Fries at one of the restaurants on Wednesday. During their meal, Geary admitted to Riesmeyer that it was the first time he had ever seen a Flying Dutchman and that the lemon fries 'were not bad.' Other items the pair ordered off the secret menu include well-done fries, side-by-side shakes and asking for the sport peppers topping. Andy Riesmeyer and In-N-Out Burger expert George Geary tried the Flying Dutchman and Lemon Fries yesterday at one of the restaurants on February 7 The Side-by-side shake is a secret drink order in which a customer can choose to mix in two or three flavors instead of just one. Another secret fry menu item is the Lemon Fries, which are fries with a hint of lemon juice The Animal Style burger is one of the most popular secret menu items at the restaurant chain, which include combinations and the option to have three burger patties 'Youve heard the rumors, wondered what was on it, maybe even felt a little left out of the loop. But in reality, we dont have any secrets at all,' the restaurant chain wrote regarding their not-so-secret-menu. Some of the items on this menu include the Scooby snack and the animal style burger, which has been referred to as 'the most popular item' from the secret menu. Daniel Slim/AFP via Getty Images A woman flying from New York City to Seoul claims she was the victim of a mid-flight calamity last year that left her with severe burns to the groin. Yanling Yu was aboard Korean Air flight KE 85 from JFK to Incheon International Airport last October when a flight attendant spilled a cup of boiling hot coffee on [her] lap, causing her to sustain grievous personal injuries near her genital area, with attendant special damage, according to a civil lawsuit obtained by The Daily Beast. The suit, which was filed Feb. 5 in New York State Supreme Court, accuses the airline and the flight attendant of negligence, carelessness and recklessness for the spill, and says Yu has become sick, sore, lame and disabled did expend large sums of money for medical care and attention and will be required to expend additional sums of money for medical care in the future to attend to her injuries which she believes to be of a permanent nature. Yus attorney, Victor Bota, told The Daily Beast that Yus injuries were serious. Under the Montreal Convention, airlines operating international flights are strictly liable for injuries to passengers on board their aircraft, Bota said. By bringing this lawsuit, Ms. Yu intends to hold the airline responsible for the injuries she sustained as a result of the flight attendants negligence. A Korean Air spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment on Friday. New York State Supreme Court The case bears resemblances to a 2022 lawsuit filed by a passenger who claimed a Korean Air flight attendant spilled scalding-hot tea onto her lap, causing burns to her legs, both thighs and the area in between, and possible permanent cosmetic deformity and scarring. (Adding insult to injury, the suit said the cabin crew refus[ed] to permit [the passenger] to purchase a business class seat with extra leg room after she had been burned.) The South Korea-based airline has faced other coffee- and hot-beverage-related lawsuits in recent years. Story continues In 2017, a Korean Air passenger sued the carrier after a flight attendant allegedly put a cup of hot coffee down on his tray table while the plane was being bumped and jostled by turbulence, sending the scalding liquid into his lap and causing terrible burns. And in September, a passenger flying Korean Air from Guangzhou, China, to Seoul said he nearly swallowed a glass shard served to him in a cup of iced coffee. According to the Korea JoongAng Daily, the man had to disgorge the food he ate in the aircraft's lavatory following the cabin crew's guidelines in case he swallowed more pieces. The airline reimbursed the man for his medical expenses and gave him a $75 voucher, the newspaper reported. In her lawsuit, Yu is demanding damages to be determined in court, plus interest, along with legal fees and such other and further relief as to this Court deems just and proper. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. New York Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik said Thursday she would not have certified the 2020 election had she been in then-Vice President Mike Pence's position. Her comments come as speculation is growing around who former President Donald Trump may choose as his new running mate this year. Stefanik voted against certifying the Pennsylvania election results on January 6, 2021. She did, however, vote to certify the election results in Arizona, which was the only other state thats election was contested that day. 'I stood up for the Constitution,' Stefanik said on CNN Thursday night when asked about her votes. 'I would not have done what Mike Pence did. I don't think that was the right approach.' Pence earned the scorn of the former president when he refused Trump's demands while presiding over the Senate during the electoral count - and did not reject electoral votes certified by the states. Trump, at the time, fumed that Pence did not have 'courage.' 'And let me say this for you: when it comes to this election, we're seeing the Democrats trying to remove President Trump from the ballot,' Stefanik continued. The New York congresswoman called Democrats' myriad attempts to remove Trump from ballots across the country as 'not constitutional' adding that does not lead to 'a legal and safe, secure election.' Stefanik, given her loyalty to the former president, is widely believed to be a contender to be Trump's vice presidential choice in 2024. But in an interview with Fox News Sunday, the former president said he won't announce who he plans to run with in the 2024 ticket for 'a while.' 'We have some many good people in the Republican Party,' Trump said. He did, however, confirm that South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott and South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem were on his shortlist of potential running mates. 'I called Tim Scott and I told him 'you're a much better candidate for me than you are for yourself,' Trump said. 'Kristi Noem has been incredible fighting for me,' he added of the South Dakota governor. 'She said 'I'd never run against him because I can't beat him.' That was a very nice thing to say.' Sen. Tim Scott ended his presidential campaign in November before endorsing Trump South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem has been a longtime supporter of Trump and the former president confirmed that she is on his list of potential running mates Stefanik also said she is proud to be one of Trump's closest allies. 'I'm proud to be one of the top surrogates for President Trump,' she said Thursday. 'I voted for President Trump in 2016. I was proud to work with him.' 'I would be proud to serve in a future Trump administration, but we have a lot to do,' Stefanik added. Surveys consistently do show Scott, Noem and Stefanik listed as popular potential running mates for Trump. Trump's former press secretary and current Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders and former 2024 contender and biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy are also believed to be potential running mates. Former Democrat State Senator Annazette Collins submitted false policies for made up clients in her post-politics insurance job, federal prosecutors alleged on Friday. Collins was caught submitting false insurance policies tied to bank accounts that were controlled either by Collins or her daughter, Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Parthum told a judge on Friday. The findings came to light during Collins' ongoing trial for allegedly dodging nearly $100,000 in taxes. During the case prosecutors revealed that Collins, who represented Chicago's West Side, was fired from her job at American Income Life Insurance, but they said they would not seek to disclose the reason unless she decided to take the stand. U.S. District Judge Jorge Alonso ruled that further details could be revealed if Collins took the stand on Friday. Annazette Collins, 61, submitted false policies for made up clients in her post-politics insurance job, federal prosecutors allege The revelations came in the fourth day of the former Democrat State Senator's trial for reportedly dodging almost $100,000 in federal taxes After the ruling Collins decided not to take the stand in her own defense. No criminal charges have yet been filed against the former lawmaker in connection with the insurance policy allegations. The jury at the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse heard how Collins earned nearly $100,000 from the company on a contract basis selling life insurance policies, income that she allegedly never reported on her tax returns. The 61-year-old is charged with three counts of filing a false individual income tax return, two counts of failing to file a corporate income tax return, and one count of willfully failing to file an individual income tax return. Collins has been charged with vastly underreported her lobbying income on tax returns Between 2014 and 2018, under her lucrative lobbying and consulting firm, Kourtnie Nicole Corp., which she former after leaving the legislature in 2013. Collins avoided paying almost $100,000 in federal taxes over the five-year period, the indictment alleges. Collins 'was a former Illinois state senator and representative who for years had been trusted with making the laws of the state of Illinois,' Parthum said in her opening statement Tuesday. Collins has been of interest to prosecutors for years, and her name came up during two major corruption trials last year. In one four political insiders were convicted of a nearly decade-long conspiracy to bribe former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan to benefit ComEd. Jurors in that trial saw a handwritten list of favored lobbyists that included the name 'Annazette.' It appeared on stationery from the Talbott Hotel and was purportedly dubbed the 'magic list' by Madigan confidant Michael McClain. Collins' lobbying firm did work for ComEd and AT&T Illinois, both of which are caught up in the investigation that also led to charges against Madigan and McClain. The tax charges against Collins stem from the same investigation by officials. A Brazilian man is under arrest after he allegedly murdered his wife and then took a selfie with her corpse and sent it to her friends and family. Jose Torres, 39, stabbed Daniele Vieria, 34, at their home in the northeastern city of Itopororoca on Thursday. Torres snapped a photo of him next to Vieria and texted it to the family. He attempted to take his own life by stabbing himself, but paramedics rushed him to Mamanguape General Hospital, police chief Sylvio Rabelo said, according to Braxilian news outlet G1. Vieria feared for her life and sent multiple messages the mother of her godchildren on Thursday. Jose Torres (right) took a selfie with his wife, Daniele Vieria (left), moments after he allegedly killed her at their home in Brazil on Thursday and then sent the photo to friends and family Daniele Vieria reached out to the mother of her godchildren via text message and wrote, 'Help me, he wants to kill me,' moments before she was stabbed dead by her husband One of the messages sent at 12:48am read, 'Help me, he wants to kill me.' However, her desperate cry for assistance went unanswered because the godmother of her son was sleeping. She did not see the messages until about 5am and rushed to the home, where she found Vieria dead. Rabelo said that Vieria had been assaulted by Torres on two occasions. 'It culminated with this criminal act,' he said. Vieria leaves behind a 16-year-old son. DailyMail.com could not confirm if the son was from her relationship with Torres. Police said that Daniele Vieria was beaten multiple times by her husband, who murdered her Thursday at their home in the southern Brazil municipality of Itopororoca. She leaves behind a 16-year-old son Torres remained hospitalized and will be taken to the local police station once he is medically cleared by doctors. A similar incident occurred in the southern Brazil state of Parana in December 2022 after Gilmar Ferreira, 44, man stabbed dead his wife, Adriana Carvalho, 40. Ferreira took a photo standing next to his wife of nine years and posted it on social media. He attempted to cut his wrists and neck, but was rescued by paramedics and taken to a hospital, where doctors saved his life. Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. fired back at the Democratic National Committee on Friday after the party filed a complaint about a Kennedy-aligned super PAC helping him get on the general election ballot. In a filing with the Federal Election Commission, the DNC accused Kennedy of a 'ballot access scheme,' which it argues constitutes illegal coordination between a presidential campaign and a super PAC. In a since-deleted X post, Kennedy knocked the DNC for accusing him for 'secretive' activity, when his ballot access push is detailed on the campaign's website. 'After the day they had yesterday, it's understandable they'd want to put the focus on someone else,' Kennedy said. 'It's sad to see the party my family built crash and burn.' The son of Sen. Robert F. Kennedy and nephew of President John F. Kennedy was pointing to the release of Special Counsel Robert Hur's classified documents report, which referenced the president's 'diminished faculties' and said a jury would find him 'a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory.' Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. fired back at the Democratic National Committee on Friday after the party filed a complaint about a Kennedy-aligned super PAC helping him get on the general election ballot President Joe Biden addresses Special Counsel Robert Hur's classified documents report Thursday night at the White House. The bombshell report says a jury would find Biden 'a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory' 'As President Biden's cognitive competence comes under attack by the mainstream media, the DNC is doubling down on its strategy of keeping viable, non-Trump, candidates off the ballot,' Kennedy complained in a follow-up X post. 'The efforts by the DNC to suppress democracy, silence descent, and handpick our national leaders in smoke-filled rooms are radical departures from the core values of a party my family helped to build,' Kennedy added. When Kennedy first announced his campaign last year, he did so as a Democrat, but in October said he would run as an independent. The DNC decided not to host primary debates and put up other hurdles for anyone daring to challenge Biden. The behavior is typical when there's an incumbent candidate in the White House. 'The DNC is in no position to assert morality over anyone - they refused to have a primary and have worked against the will of the people in the past few elections,' Kennedy. The DNC alleged in the Friday filing that the Super PAC American Values 2024 is working to collect signatures to ensure Kennedy is on the November ballot in key states, but will have to 'integrate their expenses' with the campaign in ways that violate federal election rules in order to do so. That's because, the DNC argues, many states - including Arizona, Illinois and Michigan - have rules that candidates or their campaigns be the ones collecting ballot signatures, meaning Kennedy's campaign will have to violate federal rules to meet state requirements. 'They simply cannot comply with federal law and state law at the same time,' DNC legal counsel Bob Lenhard said on a conference call with reporters. Tim Mellon, a major donor to Donald Trump, gave American Values $15 million last year, according to federal filings. The DNC alleges that those donations suggest that top supporters of the former president are using Kennedy's candidacy to try and siphon support from President Joe Biden 's reelection bid. On the call with reporters, the DNC argued that 'Trump and his megadonors are propping up RFK Jr. as a stalking horse.' The complaint comes amid increasingly Democratic worry about third-party candidates potentially siphoning support away from Biden. Kennedy began his White House campaign last year as a challenger to Biden in the Democratic primary only to later switch to a third-party bid, though, meaning he could also draw some would-be Trump supporters. In a statement, Kennedy's campaign called the DNC's accusations 'a nonissue being raised by a partisan political entity that seems to be increasingly concerned with its own candidate and viability.' It also said that it had 'yet to receive any signatures from American Values PAC or any PAC' but takes 'our FEC obligation seriously and are not permitted to tell PACs what they should and should not do with their money.' American Values said in its own statement that it has been working independently from the campaign to get him on the ballot in 12 states and dismissed the DNC complaint as 'political games.' 'The DNC wants to deny millions of people their basic constitutional voting rights in a relentless onslaught against democracy,' said Tony Lyons, the group's co-founder. He added that 'the Biden administration and the DNC clearly find democracy inconvenient, want to stifle any dissenting opinions and dont believe that their candidate can win a free, open and fair election.' Filing complaints with the FEC for improper coordination with campaigns isn't uncommon. In December, a campaign watchdog group filed a complaint alleging that Never Back Down, a super PAC supporting Republican Ron DeSantis, was coordinating too closely with the Florida governor's since-suspended presidential campaign. But Lenhard said the DNC took the unusual step of filing a complaint against Kennedy itself because what was occurring was 'striking' and 'dramatic' given that some states mandate candidates or their campaigns collect ballot signatures. 'The state law element adds an extra level of legal concern,' Lenhard said. Iran is recruiting British Muslims on pilgrimages in the Middle East to spy on Jews and dissidents in the UK, it was claimed last night. Recruiters from the feared Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) approach British Shias visiting religious sites in Iran and Iraq. They are told to return to the UK and gather information on prominent British Jews or targets such as synagogues, Israeli and British officials have separately told the Mail. Some spy on British-based Iranian dissidents, whom the Tehran regime accuses of fomenting unrest back home. Last night, an Israeli official said that since Hamas's October 7 massacre, they had given a higher-than-usual number of warnings to the UK, alerting this country to potential attacks by Iranians or their proxies. Members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) force attend a rally marking the annual Quds Day, or Jerusalem Day in Tehran Members of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) marching during the annual 'Sacred Defence Week' military parade marking the anniversary of the outbreak of the devastating 1980-1988 war with Saddam Hussein's Iraq A source said: 'We do not know the scale of Iranian agents inside Europe and the UK , but all it takes is for one to slip through the net.' Experts have also warned that some Iranians who come to study at British universities as international students on state scholarships are also spies. Kasra Aarabi, of the United Against Nuclear Iran think-tank, said IRGC recruiters did not focus on hiring British Iranians, who are usually secular and oppose the Ayatollah regime. But British Shias who originated from Pakistan, Iraq and Lebanon were targeted at the Arbaeen festival in the holy Iraqi city of Karbala, which attracts up to 20 million pilgrims a year. Most British Muslims belong to the Sunni sect of Islam. But it is estimated there are up to 400,000 Muslims who belong to the Shia sect, which is the state religion of Iran and sees itself as the protector of Shias across the world. A Whitehall source said that when the IRGC wanted to assassinate or kidnap anyone on UK soil, it often used British-based organised criminal networks. But information gathered by British spies may be used to carry out the attacks, one source said, adding: 'The reason why the IRGC uses organised criminal networks to carry out the work here is because thankfully it is very difficult for Iranian spies to operate on British soil.' The Ayatollah regime has targeted Iran International a Farsi-language channel based in Chiswick, west London accusing it of fomenting protests and demonstrations at home, especially after the death of student Mahsa Amini in September 2022. Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) members march during the annual pro-Palestinians Al-Quds, or Jerusalem, Day rally in Tehran MI5 and counter-terror police say that since the start of 2022, the Iranian regime has tried to kill or harm at least 15 British-based Iranian dissident. (Pictured, the MI6 building in Vauxhall) Ms Amini was violently assaulted by the country's morality police for not wearing her headscarf correctly, and later died in hospital, sparking protests across the globe. A British-based people smuggler-turned-informant was paid almost 200,000 by the IRGC to assassinate two British journalists who worked for the channel. The Government has sanctioned five individuals linked to the attempted assassinations. In December, Chechen criminal Magomed-Husejn Dovtaev, 31, was jailed for three years after being found guilty of spying on the headquarters of Iran International in order to carry out a terror attack. Counter-terrorism police said Dovtaev belonged to a European organised criminal network which was hired to carry out the attack.. MI5 and counter-terror police say that since the start of 2022, the Iranian regime has tried to kill or harm at least 15 British-based Iranian dissidents, sometimes publicly calling for their murders. This week, it emerged the IRGC sent an Iranian couple to Sweden in 2015, using the cover of Afghan asylum seekers. The couple lived in the country as a 'sleeper cell' until 2021 when they were activated to apparently assassinate three prominent Jews. But they were arrested by security services. Terorism expert Professor Anthony Glees (pictured) said: 'This is a serious threat that needs to be addressed' Last year, it was reported that the Islamic College, a Shia educational institution based in Willesden Green, north-west London, had strong links to the Al-Mustafa University in Iran and sent students to its campus in the country. Islamic College principal Dr Isa Jahangir was reported as the 'representative' of Al-Mustafa in the UK on pro-Iranian news websites. Al-Mustafa was sanctioned by the US Treasury for being a recruiting ground for the IRGC. The college said at the time that claims of its links and that of Dr Jahangir to Al-Mustafa were 'unfounded'. Terorism expert Professor Anthony Glees said: 'This is a serious threat that needs to be addressed. IRGC is behind Hamas and the Houthis, and it is also running these spying networks here. British Iranians need to be very careful when they go back to Iran.' Last night, the Home Office said: 'The UK will always stand up to threats from foreign nations. We continually assess potential threats.' President Joe Biden demanded that Congress pass more aid for Ukraine Friday during a White House meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, saying it would be a disaster if lawmakers failed to approve a new package of support. 'The failure of the United States Congress, if it occurs, not to support Ukraine, is close to criminal neglect,' he said. 'It is outrageous.' Scholz is in town to help bolster Biden's case and persuade Republicans to authorize another tranche of aid. A day earlier the Senate pushed ahead with a $95 billion bill approving aid for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan, days after another package, which included immigration reforms, was killed off. 'Hopefully, Congress will ... the House will follow you and make a decision on giving the necessary support,' said Scholz. President Joe Biden meets with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in the Oval Office Friday Ukrainian servicemen fire a D-20 howitzer towards Russian troops at a position near the front line town of Bakhmut. Sholz is in town to bolster support for a new U.S. aid package for Ukraine 'Because without the support of United States and without the support of the European states, you can have not a chance to defend the country.' Biden welcomed the German leader to the Oval Office and in two minutes of opening remarks referred to the German chancellor as 'Olaf.' The will have come as a relief to White House staff. Biden this week has struggled with the names of world leaders. On Wednesday, he referred to a conversation with Sholz's predecessor Angela Merkel in 2021 as having taken place with the late German Chancellor Helmut Kohl. In fact Kohl died four years earlier. It came after he made a similar mistake with French presidents, describing a conversation with Emmanuel Macron as if it had taken place with Francois Mitterand, who died in the 1990s. The White House has also been in damage limitation mode since the Thursday publication of a damning report into Biden's mishandling of sensitive government documents. Although Special Counsel Robert Hur recommended that no charges be brought, his report painted a damning picture of a president struggling with 'diminished faculties.' The U.S. has had to cut military aid to Ukraine after its budget authority ran dry. The two-year anniversary of Russia's invasion is approaching White House officials said the criticism was unwarranted and out of place, and Friday they pointed to Biden's record in office as the record of a president getting things done. And that meant talks with Scholz on Friday about how to secure more aid for Ukraine's forces who have been bogged down for months after fighting back Russia's initial assault. T.he White House has repeatedly warned that failing to send more aid to Kyiv would undermine its ability to resist the Russian invasion. Last week, the European Union approved a four-year, $54 billion package. But in Washington, the question has become bogged down in domestic politics, as Republicans first sought to tie more cash to a deal to strengthen security at the southern border, before changing their minds. Former Democratic Rep. Harold Ford Jr. said Friday that the party was going to have 'serious questions going forward' about President Joe Biden's ability to be the 2024 presidential nominee after a 'tough night.' On Thursday, Biden's reelection prospects were rattled by the release of Special Counsel Robert Hur's classified documents report, which referenced the president's 'diminished faculties' and said a jury would find him 'a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory.' The 81-year-old president poured salt on the wound during a press conference addressing the report, saying the president of Egypt was from 'Mexico.' 'The president lost his fastball,' Ford said. President Biden last night, I think even in that interview, even in that press conference there, demonstrated to a lot of Americans what Mr. Hur wrote.' Ford suggested it could do a lot to hurt Biden politically. 'This last night will be the closing ad in a campaign against President as we get to November,' Ford said on Fox & Friends. 'The question is, are Democrats willing to go forward between now and November with a candidate that many in the country may not think is up to the job for four more years.' Former Democratic Rep. Harold Ford Jr. said Friday that the party was going to have 'serious questions going forward' about President Joe Biden 's ability to be the 2024 presidential nominee after a 'tough night' Ford indicated to Fox & Friends' Brian Kilmeade that he believed Thursday possibly changed the trajectory of the 2024 race. 'I'll answer it this way, if you asked me this question two or three days ago, the answer was it's very unlikely that any other person could be the nominee,' Ford said. 'I think after last night, I think that question becomes one that has to be answered more forthrightly and more thoughtfully.' 'And as of right now, I think Democrats are going to have to grapple with this over the next several weeks and few months,' he continued. 'And there are few elders in the party that can, perhaps, have this conversation and we will see if they do,' the ex-lawmaker and Fox News contributor added. With self-help guru Marianne Williamson out of the race, only one Democrat, Minnesota Rep. Dean Phillips, has been challenging Biden for the Democratic nomination. Phillips' support, thus far, has topped at just 19 percent and in New Hampshire, a state where the president didn't appear on the ballot due to the Democrats reordering their presidential primaries. Phillips launched his campaign in October over concerns about Biden's advanced age. President Joe Biden addressed the press Thursday night after the release of Special Counsel Robert Hur's blockbuster classified documents report, which questioned if the president was suffering from memory lapses The 55-year-old congressman had tried to months to recruit a more well-known name to primary Biden, but the effort failed, compelling Phillips to do it himself. He pointed to polling that showed Americans were wary of awarding the incumbent four more years and surveys that showed Biden losing to former President Donald Trump. Phillips said on Thursday that the special counsel's report 'all but handed' the election to Trump. 'The report simply affirms what most Americans already know, that the president cannot continue to serve as our Commander-in-Chief beyond his term ending January 20, 2025,' Phillips said in a statement to DailyMail.com. Allies of the president have tried a variety of defenses in the last 24 hours, with some pointing to the fact that Hur was Trump-appointed, to White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre pointing out Friday that Biden has gaffed names his entire career. Tractor-driving farmers have been staging a go-slow protest about cheap imports, around the Port of Dover. Traffic in and out of the Kent coastal town was disrupted on Friday by the demonstration, which has involved tractors driving in small groups, causing delays. A huge queue has built up behind the protesting farmers. Farmer Jeffrey Gibson, from Wingham, Kent, posted on Facebook that the protest was against cheap imports as well as the Government's sustainable farming incentive (SFI) scheme. He said: 'Time has come enough is enough why are we as British farmers producing food to the highest standards in the world, only for the government to do trade deals with countries producing far cheaper food with little or no standards. Tractor-driving farmers have been staging a go-slow protest about cheap imports, around the Port of Dover Traffic in and out of the Kent coastal town was disrupted on Friday by the demonstration, which has involved tractors driving in small groups, causing delays A huge queue has built up behind the protesting farmers Farmer Jeffrey Gibson, from Wingham, Kent, posted on Facebook that the protest was against cheap imports as well as the Government's sustainable farming incentive (SFI) scheme He said: 'Time has come enough is enough why are we as British farmers producing food to the highest standards in the world, only for the government to do trade deals with countries producing far cheaper food with little or no standards' He added: 'As for the supermarkets selling British produce cheaper than the cost of production shame on you' A Kent Police spokeswoman said: 'Kent Police was called just after 5pm on Friday February 9 to a report of slow-moving vehicles in Jubilee Way, Dover' The police added: 'Officers are in attendance and working with the Port of Dover police on this matter' 'As for the supermarkets selling British produce cheaper than the cost of production shame on you. 'The time has come to take a stance, if farming continues in this country as it is with the new SFI scheme actively encouraging us not to grow food and rely more on cheap imports none of us will exist once the government changes tack leaving us unequipped to grow anything.' A Kent Police spokeswoman said: 'Kent Police was called just after 5pm on Friday February 9 to a report of slow-moving vehicles in Jubilee Way, Dover. 'Officers are in attendance and working with the Port of Dover police on this matter.' The demonstration comes after farmers across Europe have been protesting for weeks against grievances including taxes, rising costs, cheap imports, climate policies and bureaucracy. French farmers blocked roads surrounding French cities to protest against European Union environmental rules and low pay and German farmers protested over fuel subsidies. The demonstration comes after farmers across Europe have been protesting for weeks against grievances including taxes, rising costs, cheap imports, climate policies and bureaucracy. Pictured: A farmer protesting in France Pictured: Farmers are seen gathered around bonfires as they block a crossing between Belgium and The Netherlands Pictured: Tractors block a border crossing between The Netherlands and Belgium Hundreds of German farmers' tractors blocked roads around Frankfurt Airport in a protest over fuel subsidies Farmers gather with their tractors at the Agrotica agricultural fair in Thessaloniki on February 1 An Italian farmer standing on a tractor waves a national flag in the center of Milan during a protest on February 1, 2024 In Greece, farmers have also blocked roads as they demand a reduction to EU red tape and swifter compensation payouts for those affected by the flooding and wildfires. In the UK, the National Farmers Union president Minette Batters said: 'We share European farmers' concerns and frustration. 'Years of unsustainably high production costs and crop losses because of extreme weather are putting farming families under mounting pressure. 'But the British public have demonstrated invaluable support. 'It's why blockading public roads should always be a last resort.' A Chaplain at Leeds University was forced into hiding with his young family yesterday after receiving death threats over his role as an IDF reservist. Rabbi Zecharia Deutsch, wife Nava and their two children were moved to a safe location on police advice amid a shocking hate campaign. Pro-Palestinian campaigners have accused Rabbi Deutsch of 'genocide' after he returned to Israel after Hamas's October 7 terror attacks to serve in the Israeli Defence Force. He resumed his chaplaincy duties last month, leading to an escalation in anti-Semitic threats on campus. On Thursday evening, the hate campaign intensified with 'hundreds' of malicious calls to the family, including threats to kill Rabbi Deutsch, to rape and kill Mrs Deutsch and to murder their children. Rabbi Zecharia Deutsch with his wife Nava. The pair were forced to flee their Leeds home with their children following the threats Rabbi Deutsch was accused of 'genocide' after he returned to Israel following Hamas's October 7 terror attacks to serve in the Israeli Defence Force (stock photo) A Jewish building at the University of Leeds (stock photo) was also vandalised with 'Free Palestine' and 'IDF off campus' slogans In a recording of one phone call to Mrs Deutsch heard by the Mail the caller said: 'Tell that Jewish son of a bitch we are coming for him. 'We're coming to his house, we're going to kill him, and you as well you f****** racist bitch.' Another caller said: 'Us Muslims are coming for you, you dirty Zionist m***********.' Another said: 'We are going to get you. How dare you come back to Leeds and expect the Muslims not to do 'owt, when all you lot have been doing is killing innocent children.' The Deutsch family decided to leave their Leeds home after taking police advice, sources said. It comes amid skyrocketing levels of anti-Semitism on British university campuses and around Europe. The University Jewish Chaplaincy (UJC) said: 'We are deeply shocked and appalled by the despicable torrent of horrific anti-Semitic hate and threats of violence being directed at Rabbi Deutsch and his family. 'We are in constant communication with Rabbi Deutsch, and our primary concern is to ensure his and his family's ongoing safety, and the safety of Jewish students at Leeds University. 'To find ourselves in this situation in the UK in 2024 marks a dark day for British Jews.' Jewish students have faced vile abuse on campus amid an 'unacceptable' rise in anti-Semitism at UK universities. Picture shows a poster featuring a swastika in place of the Star of David on the flag of Israel at Royal Holloway, University of London Activists from Glasgow University this month demanding the stopping of investments related to arming the Israeli Defence Force Claudia Mendoza of the Jewish Leadership Council said: 'What we have witnessed is truly shocking. 'Campus is a cesspit of anti-Semitism with unprecedented abuse being directed at students and the Jewish chaplain in Leeds. If we ignore this because it is "only" the Jews, we will regret what this country becomes.' A Jewish building at the University of Leeds was also vandalised with 'Free Palestine' and 'IDF off campus' slogans. Separately, a protest calling for the rabbi's removal was staged in the city yesterday, organised by the Leeds Palestine Solidarity Campaign and Leeds Socialist Worker Student Society. Leeds University said of the vandalism: 'We are deeply saddened that our Jewish community appears to have been targeted by this criminal act. The university takes incidents of this nature extremely seriously and the safety and welfare of our students and staff is our No 1 priority. 'We recognise that students and staff across our community have been deeply affected by the ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza, and will continue to provide support. 'We are working with the police and the property owners as they investigate this incident, and have supported the UJC in swiftly cleaning and repainting the property. West Yorkshire Police said: 'Police in Leeds are investigating after receiving a report of threats made towards a male. Officers have spoken to the victim and safeguarding measures have been put in place.' A Rome court has ordered that the man convicted in the 2007 murder of British student Meredith Kercher, who was freed three years ago, be placed under 'special surveillance' for allegedly abusing a former girlfriend, Italian media reported on Friday. The order came after the former girlfriend filed a complaint last summer against Rudy Guede, a 36-year-old Ivorian convicted of the murder of Miss Kercher. Miss Kercher's murder in the university city of Perugia gained international notoriety after her American roommate, Amanda Knox, and Miss Knox's then-boyfriend, Raffaele Sollecito, were placed under suspicion. Both were initially convicted but Italy's highest court threw out the convictions in 2015 after a series of flip-flop decisions. Guede was originally convicted in a fast-track trial procedure in 2008. He has denied killing Kercher, and was freed in November 2021 after serving most of his 16-year prison sentence. Rudy Guede, a 36-year-old Ivorian, (pictured) was convicted of the murder of Miss Kercher Meredith Kercher (pictured) was a British student at the University of Leeds Amanda Knox (pictured) was convicted of killing Meredith, but later had the conviction overturned In December Guede was banned from being within 500 metres of the woman and forcing him to wear an electronic bracelet. Under the new ruling, Guede will be banned from having any contact with his former girlfriend, including via social media. She was not identified in the reports and La Presse news agency did not clarify the date of the order. Guede will also have to inform police any time he leaves his city of residence, Viterbo, in central Italy, the ANSA news agency said. Guede has denied all the allegations against him, according to reports. His lawyer could not immediately be reached for comment. He was charged with the abuse allegations in December. Sollecito, the formerly-accused ex-boyfriend of Knox, said at the time: 'It seems Guede has not changed.' 'I don't follow Guede's life, but certainly in light of what happened today it seems to me that he hasn't changed. Knox, her former Italian boyfriend Raffaele Sollecito and Ivorian Rudy Guede were convicted and jailed in 2009 for Meredith's murder He admitted to having been at the apartment but has always denied killing or sexually assaulting Kercher Raffaele Sollecito (pictured) said upon hearing the news of Guede's abuse charged that he had not changed one bit 'What he was before entering prison, what we read in the documents, is sadly reconfirmed and equally sad. We see that he has not repented.' Guede was found guilty after his DNA was discovered on Kercher's body despite his claims that he was in the bathroom listening to music when she was killed. He was freed on parole in 2021 following good behaviour in prison and has been living in the town of Viterbo where he works as a researcher and librarian at the Centre for Crime, Judicial and Sociological studies. He has also been studying for a Master's in Historical Sciences at Rome Tre university. Following his release from prison, Guede said: 'The sentence I had to serve in the name of the law has ended. Now I am left marked by the judgement of strangers, by the slanted glances as I pass.' Following the murder, Guede fled by train to Germany where he was arrested days later Knox and Sollecito were accused of killing Meredith Guede has since told Kercher's parents in a letter that his hands were stained with her blood because he was trying to save the British student Kercher, from Coulsdon, Surrey, was killed just two months after moving to Italy for a study abroad programme at Perugia's prestigious university. Her body was found in her bedroom, partially undressed, with 47 stab wounds. Guede's fingerprints were found at the scene along with a palm print in blood belonging to him. He admitted to having been at the apartment but has always denied killing or sexually assaulting Kercher. He said he had gone into a 'state of shock' after finding her dead after he returned from the bathroom. Following the murder, Guede fled by train to Germany where he was arrested days later. Guede has since told Kercher's parents in a letter that his hands were stained with her blood because he was trying to save the British student. 'If my hands are stained with blood it is because I tried to save Meredith,' Guede wrote in the letter, according to La Repubblica. 'Fear took over and I ran away like a coward leaving [her] perhaps still alive. I will never stop regretting this.' Worried residents hoping to join the rescue efforts to find missing mum Samantha Murphy have been left shocked after learning the search has been all but abandoned six days after she disappeared. Samantha Murphy, 51, vanished on Sunday, February 4 after leaving her home on Eureka Street, East Ballarat, to go for a run in nearby Canadian forest at 7.16am. On Saturday, locals who turned-up in anticipation of helping rescue crews in the hunt for Ms Murphy were told there would be no co-ordinated effort and that they could carry out their own searches alone. One resident told Daily Mail Australia he had hoped to join the effort after working all week. Its the first chance Ive had and just wanted to help out, he said. On Saturday, locals who turned-up in anticipation of helping rescue crews in the hunt for Ms Murphy were told there would be no co-ordinated effort and that they could carry out their own searches alone Locals search dense bushland for Ms Murphy on Saturday. Police are advising locals not to enter the bush alone and to team up with a friend in the rugged terrain after the official search was scaled back Police are advising locals not to enter the bush alone and to team up with a friend in the rugged terrain. Its a bit disappointing that its being wound down already, one man said. I mean, she could still be alive out there. It hasnt been that long. Ms Murphy's husband was also seen returning to the police station on Saturday morning, spending about half-an-hour inside before leaving. He declined to make a comment on exiting the building. The search, which has included State Emergency Services volunteers, Country Fire Authority and Victoria Police, has been scaled back but not totally abandoned. The current phase of the active search for missing woman Samantha Murphy has been scaled back over the weekend, a spokesperson said. An extensive 6-day search has been conducted involving local police, along with personnel from the Search and Rescue Squad, Mounted Branch and Dog Squad, plus significant assistance from members of the SES and CFA. Police continue to be in regular contact with Samanthas family regarding the developments of the search and the status of the investigation. 'The investigative stage of the investigation continues and as any new information comes to hand identifying areas of interest, the search will be scaled up. SES volunteers look for clues near Buninyong as part of a large-scale search for missing Ballarat East woman Samantha Murphy - the search has now been significantly scaled back The official search for Samantha Murphy may have been abandoned but locals were still out today searching the dense bushland on Saturday The move comes just a day after the Missing Persons Unit took charge of the investigation. On Friday, Detective Acting Superintendent Mark Hatt told reporters detectives would now look into Ms Murphy's movements and interactions with others in the days before she vanished. 'Absolutely, that will be a huge part of our investigation. Digging into the background, working out Samantha's movements in the days leading up to her disappearance and also double-so the people who know her,' he said. Part of the investigation - now dubbed Operation Primus - will see detectives trawl through Ms Murphy's computers and devices in the hope of finding clues. Superintendent Hatt said police were still working to ascertain who may have been in the area where Ms Murphy's phone lost communication with mobile phone towers. Her mobile phone had pinged in the nearby suburb of Buninyong before going dark. Superintendent Hatt said detectives were still working with phone companies to obtain data that might prove vital to shedding some light on the investigation. 'At this stage we can't share any information to that regard. We are still working with our telecommunication technicians to establish phone movements and who was in the area at the time,' he said. Superintendent Mark Hatt (pictured) said police were still working to ascertain who may have been in the area where Ms Murphy's phone lost communication with mobile phone towers Victoria Police had said on Friday that the 'current phase of the active search' for Ms Murphy would be scaled back over the weekend. Specialist teams will continue to search despite volunteers being scaled back over the weekend. After an extensive search of the surrounding area produced no leads, detectives from the missing persons squad were handed control of the investigation on Friday. 'While no sinister factors have been identified in her disappearance at this time, there are significant concerns given it has now been six days without her being sighted or any signs of her current whereabouts,' police said in a statement. This has been a worrying week for royalists, with Buckingham Palace announcing on Monday that King Charles had been diagnosed with cancer. So I'm delighted to bring some cheering health news. The Princess of Wales, who underwent 'successful' planned abdominal surgery more than three weeks ago, is on the mend. And, in a clear sign of her improvement, she was able to join her husband, Prince William, and their three children as they set off yesterday morning for a half-term holiday on the Sandringham estate in Norfolk, where the King is also convalescing. 'Catherine is recovering well,' a friend tells me. 'She was looking forward to a change of scene and will be able to take it easy in Norfolk while the children let off steam with William.' The Princess, 42, was discharged 12 days ago from the London Clinic, where she had spent almost two weeks. The Princess of Wales and Prince William with Prince Louis, Prince George and Princess Charlotte attend the Christmas Day service at St Mary Magdalene Church' The King began his 'schedule of regular treatments' on Tuesday, although palace officials did not give details of which type of cancer The Princess of Wales was able to join her husband, Prince William, and their three children as they set off yesterday morning for a half-term holiday on the Sandringham estate in Norfolk In the only Kensington Palace statement about her health, a spokesman said on January 17 that, 'based on the current medical advice, she is unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter'. The spokesman did not provide details about the nature of her surgery, but sources briefed that it was not for cancer. Since leaving hospital, without being photographed, Catherine has been at Adelaide Cottage, the family's four-bedroom home at Windsor Home Park. Her children, Prince George, ten, Princess Charlotte, eight, and Prince Louis, five, all attend Lambrook school a 15-minute drive away in Berkshire. They broke up for a week's half-term holiday yesterday. While Prince Harry was not invited to Sandringham, and had to make do with a 45-minute meeting with his father and stepmother, Queen Camilla, at Clarence House on Wednesday, Catherine's family could see the King at Sandringham, depending on the medical advice he has been given. The King began his 'schedule of regular treatments' on Tuesday, although palace officials did not give details of which type of cancer. Catherine and her family will be staying at Anmer Hall, their ten-bedroom home on the Sandringham estate. At an air ambulance charity event on Wednesday, William thanked the public for their 'kind messages of support'. He told the guests: 'It means a great deal to us all.' A Kensington Palace spokesman declines to comment. The King will hold face-to-face meetings in London next week despite his ongoing cancer treatment. Charles, 75, will spend a day or so working in the capital in a trip likely to coincide with medical appointments. He has been based at Sandringham since leaving hospital last week after prostate surgery. He flew to London to undergo treatment for his undisclosed cancer on Monday, before returning to Norfolk. But sources say the King is well enough to hold a limited number of face-to-face meetings. King Charles III and Queen Camilla attend the Sunday service at the Church of St Mary Magdalene on the Sandringham estate on February 4 Camilla said King Charles, 75, who underwent his first bout of treatment earlier this week, was 'very touched' by all the messages of support he has been receiving The King's helicopter is seen landing at Buckingham Palace, London, following the announcement of King Charles III's cancer diagnosis Camilla said King Charles, 75, who underwent his first bout of treatment earlier this week, was 'very touched' by all the messages of support he has been receiving from around the world. Queen Camilla said: 'He is doing extremely well under the circumstances. He is very touched by all of the letters and messages the public have been sending from everywhere. Thats very cheering. The 76-year-old made the remarks as she arrived at Salisbury Cathedral for a charity musical evening. The Queen had long been scheduled to attend the musical evening to celebrate the work of three Wiltshire charities and travelled five hours from her husbands side at Sandringham to be there. She is a firm supporter of The Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust, The Wiltshire Air Ambulance and Community First, as well as the regimental charities of the Grenadier Guards and The Rifles. But thanks to the inclement weather and the Kings recuperation for his first treatment for his undisclosed cancer, her visit almost didnt come off. Camilla, who hasnt left her husbands side since his diagnosis, has been with him in Norfolk all week as he recuperates. Also, Kensington Palace has announced Prince Williams fourth annual Earthshot Prize awards will take place in Cape Town in November. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott claimed that he has built more border wall than even former President Donald Trump did during this time in office. At a press conference Thursday at border hot spot Eagle Pass, which has become the epicenter of a political and legal standoff with the Biden administration, Abbott also bragged that Texas is the only state to construct its own border wall. 'If you look at the amount of wall already constructed and the amount of wall that's going to be under construction, Texas will have built more of the "Trump wall" than even Trump built in the state of Texas,' Abbott said Thursday from Shelby Park. Last month, Abbott seized control of Shelby Park, a city park in Eagle Pass that has become the preferred entry point for migrants illegally crossing into the US. Abbott kicked federal US Border Patrol agents out of the park, accusing the Biden Administration of failing to secure the border. Gov. Greg Abbott spoke at Shelby Park in Eagle Pass Thursday flanked by state officials The Texas border wall is 30 feet high and is made of steel panels anchored by concrete, according to the Texas Facilities Commission, the agency in charge of the project Abbott began construction of the state's border barrier in 2021 Former President Donald Trump built 458 miles of border all across the southern border of the nation-- 55 miles of that in the Lone Star State, federal statistics show. Under Abbott's direction, the border state has already stood up 23 miles of barrier-- with and additional 21 under construction-- with state and private funds, according to the Texas Facilities Commission, the agency in charge of the build. At least $55 million in private donations have been given to build the wall, as of December, state figures show. Abbott started construction of the steel bollard panels in 2021, when President Joe Biden took office and halted work on the federal border wall. At the press conference, Abbot also boasted about this other measures to secure the border including the state's arrest of 497,600 illegal immigrants mostly under trespassing laws. Of those, more than 39,000 were arrested while committing other crimes, with more than 35,200 felony charges. The state's border barrier is being funded by Lone Star State taxpayers, as well as $55 million in private donations Construction of the wall is part of the governor's 'Operation Lone Star,' his border security initiative Texas Gov. Greg Abbott says migrant crossings in Eagle Pass, Texas have dropped significantly In the fight against the fentanyl crisis, Texas law enforcement has seized over 458 million lethal doses of fentanyl during this border mission. Lawmakers in the Lone Star State also approved a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison for anyone convicted of smuggling illegal immigrants in the state. Abbott took credit for plummeting numbers of migrants crossing into the US through Texas. 'Even though Texas represents two-thirds of the border, we represent only about 30% of the crossings,' the Republican explained. 'The lead crossing areas are California, Arizona and New Mexico. They represent 70% of the crossings.' The Del Rio sector, which Eagle Pass is part of, according to the Border Patrol, had been the busiest area for migrants to pass until recently. Now, remote Lukeville, Arizona has become the number one crossing spot. That's where Border Patrol agents are seeing an explosion in the amount of Chinese nationals crossing the border. A staggering 37,000 Chinese migrants illegally crossed from Mexico into the US last year - 50 times more than in previous years. An asylum seeking migrant from China holds up his passport and paperwork as he is photographed by a U.S. Border Patrol in December 2023 CBP sources said the number of total migrant crossings since October has soared past one million, compared to the same time frame last year at 923,446 'The lead crossing areas are California, Arizona and New Mexico. They represent 70% of the crossings.' The Del Rio sector, which Eagle Pass, according to the Border Patrol, had been the busiest area for migrants to pass until recently. Now, remote Lukeville, Arizona has become the number one crossing spot. That's where Border Patrol agents are seeing an explosion in the amount of Chinese nationals crossing the border. A staggering 37,000 Chinese migrants illegally crossed from Mexico into the US last year-- 50 times more than in previous years. Since October, another 20,000 Chinese citizens have come across the international boundary seeking asylum. The trend has raised concerns that those migrants aren't being sent to the US by Chinese government with dark intentions. 'We would be incredibly narcissistic to assume that these people are coming in here just because they're in the neighborhood,' said TV personality Dr. Phil, who visited Eagle Pass last week. 'What are they doing? If they're working in farming, if they're working in industry, I promise you they are expected to do certain things. Are they spying? Are they sending seeds back from farming to China? Are they getting plans from industries they're working on?' St. Louis county, Minnesota is the most 'extroverted' place in the US and its opposite, Gwinnett county, Georgia down south, is the most 'introverted,' new research has found. The new study from Florida Atlantic University set out to see if communities across the country have different personalities by mapping troves of data from a Harvard-based personality test to each of the test-taker's counties across America. County by county, the researchers unearthed many unexpected data-points: Brazos county, Texas is the 'most neurotic,' for example. But they also confirmed a few stereotypes: Manhattan, the study found, scored as the both the least 'conscientious' and the least 'agreeable.' The research also found that the benefits of this 'personality polarization' were decidedly mixed benefits this team of psychologists and data scientists measured in terms of reported outcomes for health, education and general well-being. On a county by county level across the US, disparate enclaves with dominant personality traits are emerging, according to a new study. But the findings were mixed on the benefits In fact, people who scored high in 'conscientiousness' tended to have better educational outcomes when living in a county full of people that were much less conscientiousness, or even downright rude, at least according to their analysis. 'To the extent that communities are diverse, people can 'fit' in multiple ways,' according to the study's lead author, psychologist Dr. Kevin Lanning. 'One way to capture this idea,' said Dr. Lanning, who teaches at Florida Atlantic University, 'is by describing both persons and communities in terms of types.' Lanning and his colleagues at the University of Oregon and the University of Toronto focused on five traits for which national data was available, and each trait's opposite. READ MORE: Red states are getting redder and blue bluer! Politically polarized Americans are moving to states that reflect their own views on abortion, CRT and mask mandates A survey from Redfin, a real-estate brokerage firm based in Seattle, predicted more people would vote with their feet in 2022, moving to states that align with their political beliefs and increase polarization. Advertisement Those traits were: Openness vs. Close-mindedness, Neuroticism vs. Stability, Conscientiousness vs. Slacking, Extraversion vs. Introversion, and Agreeableness vs. Disagreeableness. Two more scales, measuring a person's degree of 'honesty and humility' as well as an individual's place on the conservative to liberal continuum, were also tracked. Increasing political polarization, for years, has already been well-known for altering the landscape of the US, with Americans gravitating toward places that best suit their own views. Their study, published in January in the journal Current Research in Ecological and Social Psychology, used data from Harvard's Synthetic Aperture Personality Assessment (SAPA) Project. Each of these seven total scales were tested against how being surrounded by similar personality types or 'person-community fit' benefited individuals in terms of education, health and well-being. Out of those 21 total comparison tests, there were 13 cases where a person's match or clash with the dominant local personality trait appeared to 'significantly' their well-being, health or educational level. 'Though these effects,' the researchers note, 'were typically small.' People who scored high for both 'Honesty-Humility' and 'Conscientiousness' appeared to have a higher well-being when surrounded by equally nice people but paradoxically scored lower on both educational advancement and healthy behavior. The opposite was true with 'openness,' where the open reported worse well-being when surrounded by the equally chatty, despite appearing to be more healthy and better educated. Manhattan had the highest proportion of 'open' people, but perhaps unsurprisingly the lowest percentage of people who were 'agreeable' or 'conscientious' Among the counties with more than 500 respondents to Harvard's SAPA dataset, Bexar County, San Antonio had the highest percentage of 'agreeable' people 'Just as the ethnic character of a community can be described by proportions of different ethnic groups,' said Lanning, 'the psychological character of a community may, perhaps, best be understood by a set of proportions of psychological types.' But the psychologist cautioned that the limited data from counties with smaller populations may have skewed some of his team's research. 'It's important to note that when comparing different counties, small counties are inevitably more likely to show up at the extremes,' Dr. Lanning said. Two of the smaller US counties, Yamhill Oregon and Santa Barbara California showed dramatic results during these 21 comparison analyses, but the authors noted that the 'results for these smaller counties were likely to reflect higher volatility of proportions due to sample size.' Among the counties with more than 500 respondents to Harvard's SAPA dataset, Bexar County, San Antonio had the highest percentage of 'agreeable' people. Manhattan had the highest proportion of 'open' people, but perhaps unsurprisingly the lowest percentage of people who were 'agreeable' or 'conscientious.' The percentage of open-minded people in Manhattan, in fact, was found to be almost twice that Detroit, although those in Detroit were twice as likely as Manhattanites to be classified as conscientious. Citizens of both Palm Beach and Broward counties in Florida, according to the new study, held roughly equal proportions of open-minded and conscientious people. While these larger datasets made the predictions for these counties more likely to be accurate, Dr. Lanning warned against making too many broad generalizations about your neighbors. 'Comparisons between individual counties should be made with caution,' he said. Residents of Iceland's Reykjanes peninsula faced yet more destruction this week as they faced the third volcanic eruption since December. Around 5:30am local time, an explosion ripped open a two-mile fissure which sent plumes of lava flying up to 165 feet into the air. Now, an eerie recording has revealed the sounds that warned the volcano was set to blow once again. Seismic activity recorded by Northwestern University's Earthtunes system reveals the ominous groans and clicks that preceded the blast. And you can even hear the terrifying sound of the Earth tearing open as the devastating eruption took place. Residents of Iceland's Reykjanes peninsula faced yet more destruction this week as they faced the third volcanic eruption since December Earthtunes, an app created by Northwestern University, captures the seismic activity leading up to the blast READ MORE: Tourists are evacuated as lava SWALLOWS road surrounding one of Iceland's biggest guest attractions as volcano erupts for third time Advertisement The eruption has sent vast quantities of lava flowing out over the terrain, destroying everything in its path. But before it burst through the Earth, it was preceded by weeks of escalating seismic activity. The Iceland Meteorological Office reported that in the week up to February 5, there were 200 earthquakes in the area of the eruption. This was caused by the magma chamber beneath the volcano refilling and building up pressure. The Met Office estimated that there were nine million cubic meters of magma in the subsurface reservoir before the eruption. This audio recording condenses the 24 hours of seismic activity leading up to the blast into a format which is audible to humans. Normally, the rumbles of seismic activity in the Earth's crust are at too low a frequency to be picked up by human ears. But, by condensing an entire day of recording into just one and a half minutes the pitch is increased to a point where you can hear the Earth shifting. The pressure of the magma trapped beneath the earth burst into a two-mile fissure which sent lava spewing into the air Lava has already hit a vital hot water pipe (pictured) which can be seen exploding into steam. This has left 20,000 people struggling to get hot water In the recording, you can hear how the day leading up the the eruption was punctuated by quiet clicks above the background rumble. In the lead-up to previous eruptions on the Reykjanes peninsula similar clicks and knocks were caused by magma pushing through into the crust. These 'magma intrusions' create shockwaves strong enough to be picked up by seismographs and are a strong sign of increased volcanic activity. And, this recording even appears to capture the moment the volcano erupted. Shortly before 5:30am, you can start to hear the first of a series of rapid clicks and cracks that sound almost like breaking ice. These clicks get louder before spiking suddenly at about 5:55am and again shortly after 6:30am. This matches the reporting of the eruption from the Iceland Meteorological Office (IMO). In a statement, the IMO said: 'At 5:30 this morning intense small earthquake activity began northeast of Sylingarfell. About 30 minutes later, an eruption began in the same area.' The seismic recordings capture the earthquakes which preceded the eruption at about 5:30 and the tremors which followed the blast Since November thousands of Icelanders have been evacuated from their homes in the town of Grindavik and the surrounding areas due to their proximity to the volcano on the Reykjanes peninsula READ MORE: Iceland volcano: Scientists reveal just how bad the eruption could get Advertisement Iceland has extremely high levels of volcanic activity due to its location above the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. This crack in the ocean floor divides the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates and allows frequent eruptions to occur. The island itself experiences one eruption about every four or five years, however, the Reykjanes peninsula has lain dormant for eight centuries. There have now been five eruptions since August 2022 and three since December alone. This has led volcanologists to say it was probably the start of a new era of activity in the region. The biggest concern is that lava from this latest eruption will travel towards the town of Grindavik, 30 miles southwest of Iceland's capital, Reykjavik. Observations of the eruption suggest that it is unlikely to cause further damage to nearby settlements, provided that the flow continues to subside Iceland is a particular hotspot for seismic activity because it sits on a tectonic plate boundary called the Mid Atlantic Ridge Since, November Grindavik's 3,800 residents have been evacuated due to the increased volcanic activity in the area. In January, an eruption sent lava flows into the town which destroyed three homes after overwhelming a defensive wall that had been constructed nearby. The lava from this latest eruption is currently heading away from populated areas and is unlikely to damage any more houses. 'Lava flows mostly towards west at the moment and the flow seems to be slightly less than at the start of the 18th of December eruption,' IMO said. However, Iceland's civil protection agency has now declared a state of emergency after lava flows damaged vital hot-water pipes. This map shows the extent of lava flows from the latest eruptions in the area. The darker region shows the lava flow from the December eruption while the lighter region shows where lava has travelled from this latest eruption This aerial image shows the extent of the lava flow. You can see how the latest lava flow has covered some parts of the lava left by December's eruption READ MORE: Iceland volcano: Shocking footage shows work crew waiting until the last minute to leave Advertisement The damage has left 20,000 people struggling to access hot water and may take days to repair. The agency has warned residents of the affected area to conserve hot water and electricity and schools in the area are now closed. There are also concerns that lava may strike key pipelines close to the Svartsengi geothermal power station. If this were to happen then a further 30,000 people could be affected. As of yesterday evening, the IMO confirmed that the intensity of the eruption has continued to decrease. The IMO notes that decreased lava flow indicates that there is now less pressure built up below the fissure, raising hopes that further damage may be avoided. After more than 40 years, Britain's nuclear reactor is still setting records. In its latest round of experiments, the Joint European Torus (JET), located in Culham, Oxfordshire, released a total of 69 megajoules of energy over five seconds. Although not a huge energy output, it's a world record and offers promise for a future of nuclear energy to power people's homes. JET, which was built back in the late 1970s, contains swirling plasma heated to 150 million kelvin - 10 times hotter than the centre of the sun. At such temperatures, hydrogen atoms fuse into helium, releasing sustainable energy in the process that could put an end to fossil fuels. Joint European Torus (JET, pictured) was built on an industrial estate outside Oxford in 1978 - and now it has achieved a new world record by releasing a total of 69 megajoules of energy What is nuclear fusion? Fusion involves placing hydrogen atoms under high heat and pressure until they fuse into heavier helium atoms. When deuterium and tritium nuclei - which can be found in hydrogen - fuse, they form a helium nucleus, a neutron and a lot of energy. This is done by heating the fuel to temperatures in excess of 150 millionC, forming a hot plasma. Strong magnetic fields are used to keep the plasma away from the walls so that it doesn't cool down and lose energy potential. These are produced by superconducting coils surrounding the vessel, and by an electrical current driven through the plasma. Advertisement JET began operations in 1983 but is now set to be decommissioned, having concluded its scientific operations at the end of December. The British facility, said to cost 20-30 million per year to run, is seen as a predecessor to the $22.5 billion (15.9 billion) International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) being built in France. 'JET's final fusion experiment is a fitting swansong after all the groundbreaking work that has gone into the project since 1983,' said UK Minister for Nuclear and Networks Andrew Bowie. 'We are closer to fusion energy than ever before thanks to the international team of scientists and engineers in Oxfordshire.' JET's new energy record was set using just 0.2 milligrams of fuel about the same weight as a single grain of pollen. But the resulting energy output (69 megajoules) is enough to heat the water to make around 600 cups of tea. It also beats its own previous record of 59 megajoules set more than two years ago. If ran continuously at 69 megajoules, it would be able to provide power to approximately 12,000 households on an ongoing basis. JET was built as a research facility to demonstrate the promising potential of nuclear fusion to produce power. But it could be a forefather to nuclear fusion power plants around the world that supply power directly to the grid and electricity to people's homes. Fusion power plants could reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the power-generation sector, by diverting away from the use of fossil fuels like coal and gas. If nuclear fusion experiments can be harnessed on a much larger scale, reactors hotter than anything else in the solar system will provide limitless clean energy. Tokamak Energy is a private company based at the Culham Centre for Fusion Energy in Oxfordshire The UKAEA announced the Joint European Torus (JET), the largest and most powerful operational reactor called a tokamak, had produced a world record total of 59 megajoules of heat energy from fusion over a five second period Pictured is an artist's impression of the JET facility at the Culham Centre for Fusion Energy, Oxfordshire READ MORE World's biggest nuclear fusion reactor is switched on Pictured, the JT-60SA in Japan. It's the largest fusion reactor in the world until ITER in southern France is built Advertisement 'JET has operated as close to powerplant conditions as is possible with today's facilities,' said Sir Ian Chapman, CEO of the UK Atomic Energy Authority. 'Its legacy will be pervasive in all future powerplants. 'It has a critical role in bringing us closer to a safe and sustainable future.' Like other fusion reactors, JET is a tokamak, a type of structure that uses powerful magnetic fields to confine 'plasma' in the shape of a doughnut. Hydrogen gas inside the vessel is heated to become the plasma, a soup of positively charged particles (ions) and negatively charged particles (electrons). In the tokamak, the plasma is trapped and pressurised by magnetic fields until the energised plasma particles start to collide. As the particles fuse into helium, they release enormous amounts of energy, mimicking the process that occurs naturally in the centre of stars. With a torus of about 20 feet (six metres) in diameter, JET is not the biggest nuclear fusion reactor in the world. Japan's reactor, called JT-60SA and recently switched on in Naka north of Tokyo, is a six-storey-high machine measuring 50 feet high and 44 feet wide. Fusion power works by colliding heavy hydrogen atoms to form helium - releasing vast amounts of energy in the process, as occurs naturally in the centre of stars Built and operated jointly by Europe and Japan, JT-60SA will be the world's largest fusion reactor until the completion of ITER in France. Other smaller reactors are being built and tested including the ST40 in Oxfordshire, which is more squashed-up and compact compared with other 'doughnut-shaped' reactors. Fusion differs from fission (the technique currently used in nuclear power plants), because the former fuses two atomic nuclei instead of splitting one (fission). Unlike fission, fusion carries no risk of catastrophic nuclear accidents like that seen in Fukushima in Japan in 2011 and produces far less radioactive waste than current power plants, its exponents say. It's something that features on many people's bucket lists. But if you've always dreamed of climbing Mount Everest, new regulations may make you reconsider. People who climb the world's highest mountain will now have to bring their own poo back to base camp. The new rules come amid concerns excrement left on Everest does not fully degrade, with some climbers even falling sick. 'Our mountains have begun to stink,' Mingma Sherpa, chairman of Pasang Lhamu rural municipality, told the BBC. It's something that features on many people's bucket lists. But if you've always dreamed of climbing Mount Everest, new regulations may make you reconsider People who climb the world's highest mountain will now have to bring their own poo back to base camp READ MORE: Mount Everest has been preserving all the germs coughed and sneezed out by climbers for CENTURIES Advertisement Until now, climbers scaling Mount Everest have tended to either dig holes to go to the toilet, or have simply gone out in the open. However, with temperatures known to drop to -60C (-76F), excrement does not fully degrade, leaving human stools visible on rocks. To counter this issue, Pasang Lhamu has made the decision to force people climbing Mount Everest and the nearby Mount Lhotse to order poo-bags at base camp to collect their waste. These will then be 'checked on their return', according to the BBC. While the idea of carrying your waste around might sound digusting, the poo bags are specially designed to make the collection as dignified as possible. According to the BBC, chemicals in the bags not only solidify the waste, but also render it 'largely odourless.' While the SPCC itself regularly climbs the mountain in search of rubbish, climbers are each asked to collect 17lbs (8kg) of rubbish they find on route How tough is Mount Everest to climb? Most expeditions take around two months. Alpine Ascents recommends you spend at least a year training specifically to climb Everest. 'You will need to progressively ramp up your hike time, distance, and elevation gain (at roughly 10 per cent per week) to safely and effectively build your climbing- specific conditioning,' it claims. Those hoping to reach the summit should also complete expeditions above 20,000ft (6,096m) beforehand, and have experience 'dealing with equipment' and 'handling extremely cold temperatures and extreme altitude'. Almost all those who climb Everest use a commercial expedition operator. Prices vary from $65,000 (around 50,250) to $35,000 (27,060). A tax of around $11,000 (8,500) also goes to the Nepali Government. And each climber has to pay $600 (460) to the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee. All expedition operators must have helicopter and life insurance. Advertisement Each bag can be used five to six times, which means most climbers should only need to take two with them during their expedition. This isn't the first time that poo bags have been given to climbers, according to Mr Mingma. 'Mountaineers have been using such bags on Mount Denali (the highest peak in North America) and in the Antarctic as well, that is why we have been advocating for it,' he said. Human waste isn't the only issue to deal with on Mount Everest. Decades of commercial mountaineering have turned Mount Everest into the world's highest rubbish dump. As the number of climbers on the mountain has soared, the problem of waste disposal has worsened. The worst rubbish is found at Camp Two, which is 21,000 foot (6,400m) above sea level. In 2013, Nepal implemented a $4,000 rubbish deposit per team that would be refunded if each climber brought down at least eight kilograms (18 pounds) of waste. On the Tibet side of the Himalayan mountain, they are required to bring down the same amount and are fined $100 (75) per kilogram if they don't. In 2017 climbers in Nepal brought down nearly 25 tonnes of trash and 15 tonnes of human waste - the equivalent of three double-decker buses - according to the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee (SPCC). However, this is just a fraction of the rubbish dumped each year, with only half of climbers lugging down the required amounts, the SPCC says. Instead many climbers opt to forfeit the deposit, a drop in the ocean compared to the $20,000 (15,000) - $100,000 (75,000) they will have forked out for the experience. Advertisement The crew of Axiom Space's Ax-3 mission splashed down in the Atlantic Ocean this morning, capping off their three-week journey to the International Space Station (ISS) with a safe return. A SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule carrying the four astronauts plummeted through our planet's atmosphere at speeds reaching 17,500 miles per hour, eventually drifting down on parachutes to rest in calm waters off the coast of Daytona, Florida. Air speeds of this magnitude create massive amounts of friction, which turns into heat, testing the limits of the capsule's heat shields with temperatures estimated at 3,500 degrees Fahrenheit, according to SpaceX. The Dragon capsule's splashdown just before 8:30 a.m. EST marked the end of Axiom's third mission into low Earth orbit. The SpaceX Dragon Crew capsule bobbed in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Daytona, Florida, after splashing down. Its surface was scorched from the immense heat created during reentry Astronauts jettisoned the Dragon's trunk at 7:37 a.m. EST, shedding the disposable section that sits just below the crew compartment. At 7:55, they had completed a de-orbit burn, bringing the capsule out of Earth's orbit and into its reentry path. Once the capsule entered the atmosphere, its friction against the surrounding air created an 'envelope' of plasma around the craft. This temporarily disrupted communication with ground control, a routine part of spacecraft landing. The capsule re-entered Earth's atmosphere over the Pacific Ocean just west of Mexico. It flew over the Yucatan Peninsula and Florida before landing in the Atlantic Ocean around 8:30 a.m. EST At about 8:25, the astronauts rotated their seats so they would be sitting upright as the capsule fell to Earth - rather than facing upward, like they do during launch. Minutes later, the parachutes deployed and the craft drifted down to the ocean. The SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule splashed down just before 8:30 a.m. EST on Friday. Soon after it was loaded onto a recovery vessel Ax-3, which launched from Kennedy Space Center in Florida on January 18, was SpaceX's first trip to carry an all-European crew. Michael Lopez-Alegria, 65, was the commander of Ax-3. He is a former NASA astronaut and a Spanish-American dual citizen. He was joined by Swedish aviator Marcus Wandt, 43, another mission specialist, Alper Gezeravci, 44, and Italian Air Force Colonel Walter Villadei, 49. Walter Villadei is from Italy, Alper Gezeravc has become Turkey's first astronaut, and Swedish Marcus Wandt is also onboard. The crew of Ax-3 gave the thumbs up after safely splashing down in the ocean, while they were being placed aboard a recovery vessel During their time aboard the ISS, they took part in various experiments aimed at the future of long-term human space travel. These experiments included testing a muscle stimulation and monitoring suit, testing the stress responses of gene-edited plants growing in microgravity, tracking bone density in microgravity, and monitoring astronauts' sleep patterns in space. Depending on weather, the capsule could have landed at multiple ocean splashdown sites. To prepare, SpaceX had stationed recovery vessels on either side of the state, both in the Atlantic Ocean and in the Gulf of Mexico. "Spreading the supported sites across multiple locations helps to maximize the return opportunities for this mission in future crews, lowering the chance that we'll have to wave off due to bad weather," said SpaceX production and engineering manager Jessie Anderson in a livestream of the reentry. Researchers have slammed US officials for not rolling out stricter AI rules before popstar Taylor Swift became victim of deepfakes. Images showing the four-time Grammy winner in a series of sexual acts while dressed in Kansas City Chief memorabilia and in the stadium - and the pornography share - was viewed 47 million times online before being removed. A professor at George Washington University Law School said if proper legislation was 'passed years ago' Swift and others would not have experienced such abuse. 'We are too little, too late at this point,' said Mary Anne Franks. 'It's not just going to be the 14-year-old girl or Taylor Swift. It's going to be politicians. It's going to be world leaders. It's going to be elections.' Nonconsensual, sexually explicit deepfake images of Taylor Swift circulated on social media and was viewed 47 million times before they were taken down A group of teenage girls were targeted by deepfake images at a New Jersey high school when their male classmates started sharing nude photos of them in group chats. On October 20, one of the boys in the group chat reportedly spoke about it to one of his classmates who brought it to school administrators. 'My daughter texted me, 'Mom, naked pictures of me are being distributed.' That's it. Heading to the principal's office,' one mom told CBS News. She added that her daughter, who is 14, 'started crying, and then she was walking in the hallways and seeing other girls of Westfield High School crying.' But it wasn't until deepfake photos of Taylor Swift went viral that lawmakers pushed to take action. X shut down the account that originally posted graphic deepfake images of Swift for violating platform policy, but it was too late - they were already reposted 24,000 times. A 404 Media report revealed the images might have originated from a group on Telegram after users reportedly joked about how the images of Swift went viral. X said its teams were taking 'appropriate action' against the accounts that posted the deepfakes and said it was monitoring the situation and removing the images. Last week, U.S. senators introduced the Disrupt Explicit Forged Images and Non-Consensual Edits Act of 2024 (DEFIANCE Act) shortly after Swift became a victim of the technology. 'Although the imagery may be fake, the harm to the victims from the distribution of sexually explicit 'deepfakes' is very real,' Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-Illinois) said last week. 'Victims have lost their jobs, and they may suffer ongoing depression or anxiety. 'By introducing this legislation, we're giving power back to the victims, cracking down on the distribution of 'deepfake' images, and holding those responsible for the images accountable.' Lawmakers proposed the Defiance Act that would allow people to sue those who created deepfake content of them Politicians submitted the Preventing Deepfakes of Intimate Images Act last year which would make it illegal to share nonconsensual deepfake pornography but it has not yet been passed. 'If there had been legislation passed years ago when advocates were saying this is what's bound to happen with this kind of technology, we might not be in this position,' Franks, a professor at George Washington University Law School and president of the Cyber Civil Rights Initiative, told Scientific American. Franks said lawmakers are doing too little too late. 'We can still try to mitigate the disaster that's emerging,' she explained. Women are 'canaries in the coal mine,' Franks said, speaking about how AI disproportionately affects the female population. She added that eventually, 'it's not just going to be the 14-year-old girl or Taylor Swift. It's going to be politicians. It's going to be world leaders. It's going to be elections.' A 2023 study found that in the last five years, there has been a 550 percent rise in the creation of doctored images, with 95,820 deepfake videos posted online last year alone. In a Dailymail.com/TIPP poll: 75 percent of people agreed that people who share deepfake pornographic images online should face criminal charges. Deepfake technology uses AI to manipulate a person's face or body, and there currently are no federal laws in place to protect people against the sharing or creation of such images. Representative Joseph Morelle (D-New York) who unveiled the Preventing Deepfake of Intimate Images Act, called for other lawmakers to step up and take urgent action against rising deepfake images and videos. Images and videos 'can cause irrevocable emotional, financial, and reputational harm,' Morelle said, adding: 'And unfortunately, women are disproportionately impacted.' 75 percent of people agree that people who share deepfake pornographic images online should face criminal charges Yet for all their talk, there are still no set guardrails to protect Americans from falling victim to nonconsensual deepfake images or videos. 'It is clear that AI technology is advancing faster than the necessary guardrails,' said Congressman Tom Kean, Jr., who proposed the AI Labeling Act in November of last year. The Act would require AI companies to add labels to any content generated by AI and force them to take responsible steps to prevent the publication of non-consensual content. 'Whether the victim is Taylor Swift or any young person across our country - we need to establish safeguards to combat this alarming trend,' said Kean. However, there is one major hiccup to all the legislative hoopla: who to charge with a crime once a law is passed criminalizing deepfakes. It is highly unlikely that the person at fault will step up and identify themselves, and forensic studies can't always identify and prove which software created the content, according to Amir Ghavi, lead counsel on AI at the law firm Fried Frank. And even if law enforcement could determine where the content originated, they might be prohibited from taking action by Section 230, which says websites aren't responsible for what users post. Regardless, the potential barriers aren't slowing down politicians in the wake of Swift's run-in with sexually explicit deepfake content. 'Nobodyneither celebrities nor ordinary Americansshould ever have to find themselves featured in AI pornography,' said Senator Josh Hawley (R-Missouri). Speaking about the Defiance Act, he said: 'Innocent people have a right to defend their reputations and hold perpetrators accountable in court. This bill will make that a reality.' Read More: Tutankhamun dagger was also made from 'alien metals' Scientists found two objects, a cap and bracelet, contained the metals A new analysis of ancient treasures uncovered in Spain has revealed some of the artifacts were made with 'alien metals' 3,000 years ago. Scientists conducted a new analysis of the Treasure of Villena, a hoard of 59 gold-plated objects found in 1963, finding two objects featured meteoric iron. Meteoric iron is an early-universe protoplanetary disk remnant found in meteorites made of iron and nickel. A gold-coated cap and bracelet contained the extraterrestrial material from a meteor that crashed into Earth one million years ago, according to the team's estimates. A gold-coated cap and bracelet continued the extraterrestrial material from a meteor that crashed into Earth one million years ago The study explained that meteorite iron is found in certain types of stony meteorites, composed mainly of silicates - a salt made of silicon and oxygen. 'Since they come from outer space, are composed of an iron-nickel alloy with a variable nickel composition greater than five percent by weight,' researchers wrote. 'They also contain other minor and trace chemical elements, cobalt being one of the most significant.' Using fallen meteorites to fashion objects was a common practice thousands of years ago, as a similar artifact was found in the tomb of Tutankhamun. The Treasure of Villena was discovered on the Iberian Peninsula, revealing a look at when people shifted from stone to bronze. However, the trove likely belonged to an entire community and not a single royal family. About 90 percent of the collection was made with 23.5-carat gold and includes eleven bowls, three bottles, and 28 bracelets. The artifacts were discovered by archaeologist Jose Maria Soler in December 1963, while he and his team were excavating a dry river bed called the 'Rambla del Panadero' - about seven miles from Villena. The treasures have since been housed at the city's Museum of Archaeology, allowing the new analysis that uncovered the alien metals. The team of Spanish and Saudi Arabian scientists measured the molecules in each of the pieces, allowing them to look for traces of iron-nickel alloy. Researchers found a cap and bracelet that featured meteoric iron - the former made up of 5.5 percent of the material and the latter just 2.8 percent. The artifacts were discovered by archaeologist Jose Maria Soler in December 1963, while he and his team were excavating a dry river bed called the 'Rambla del Panadero' - about seven miles from Villena Researchers found a cap and bracelet that featured meteoric iron - the former had 5.5 percent and the latter just 2.8 percent Study senior author Ignacio Montero Ruiz, a researcher at Spain's Institute of History, told Live Science: 'The iron technology is completely different to the copper-based metallurgy and to the noble metals (gold and silver). 'So, people who started to work with meteoritic iron and later with terrestrial iron must [have had to] innovate and develop new technology.' 'However, the levels of nickel in terrestrial iron are generally low or very low and frequently not detectable in analysis.' In 2016, researchers at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, Milan Polytechnic and Pisa University announced a dagger, intricately decorated and encased within a golden sheath, featuring a blade made from iron from a meteorite. The team used a similar technique to examine the composition of the metal, matching it to a meteorite named Kharga, which was found in 2000 on the Maras Matruh plateau in Egypt, 150 miles west of Alexandria. The dagger is considered to be one of the most outstanding items to have been retrieved from Tutankhamun's tomb due to the fine metalwork is shows. It was found within the young pharaoh's sarcophagus. The handle has a finely embossed gold handle with a crystal pommel while the sheath was decorated with a floral motif, feather patterns and a jackal's head. SHOPPING Contains affiliated content. Products featured in this Mail Best article are selected by our shopping writers. If you make a purchase using links on this page, Dailymail.com will earn an affiliate commission. Click here for more information. If dry, cracked cuticles are ruining your at-home manicures, you might be interested to hear that thousands of shoppers have found a painless cuticle remover that 'actually works'. The Butter London melt away cuticle remover is causing a buzz on social media for how it makes the skin around the nail bed disappear, resulting in an easier application of nail polish and a longer-lasting, professional-looking manicure - all for just $18. Butter London Melt Away Cuticle Exfoliator This luxe Cuticle Exfoliator gently removes cuticles with a fast-acting, pain-free formula. The plant-based conditioning formula helps soften and exfoliate cuticles to make them easier to push backno cutting required. 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Im always looking for something to get rid of them and make my nails look beautiful. This magically melted away the dead and dry skin around my cuticle area in just two minutes. Ill definitely be using this a lot in the future!' These reviews are just a sample of the great things people have to say about the Butter London melt away cuticle remover. When everyone says the same thing, it's good evidence that a product actually works, so head to the Butter London website to get your nails in the best shape they've ever been - for just $18. His goal was to live there a year, but he spent three decades residing in the wilds Could you live in a home like this? This is the question YouTube creator Salina Alsworth poses to viewers as she serves up a tour of a very remote cabin built by the late naturalist Richard Proenneke. Proenneke constructed the simple lodge on the shores of Upper Twin Lake in Alaska during the summers of 1967 and 1968 using mostly local materials and simple handheld tools. While he only planned on spending a year in the cabin, he found a beauty in the simplicity of living at one with nature and he spent 30 years there until he was 81. The adventurer lived there for decades without electricity, running water, telephone, or other modern 'necessities.' Richard Proenneke constructed his simple lodge on the shores of Upper Twin Lake in Alaska during the summers of 1967 and 1968 He used mostly local materials and simple handheld tools While he only planned on spending a year in the cabin, he found a beauty in the simplicity of living at one with nature and he spent 30 years there until he was 81 The adventurer lived there for decades without electricity, running water, telephone, or other modern 'necessities' Although he lived alone, he often had visitors and he kept in contact with friends around the world by writing letters. In the YouTube film, Salina - who lives in a remote village close by - explains that the only way of getting to the cabin is via a floatplane and her grandfather would help fly supplies in for Proenneke every now and then. As she nears the characterful abode, she reveals that it cost Proenneke just $40 to build and he was inspired to move to the location after meeting someone who had a cabin close by. Proenneke used his friend's cabin to stay in while he constructed his own shelter. There are several documentaries in existence made by Bob Swerer, which document Proenneke's unconventional lifestyle and show him in action. In one piece of grainy footage, Proenneke can be seen building his cabin using harvested spruce logs. He explains that he had decided that the cabin's front door 'would face northwest and the big window would look down to the lake.' In Salina's new video tour of the cabin, she reveals how Proenneke's original hinged front door is still in place and the interior is pretty much how he left it following his final visit in 2000 at the age of 84. Could you live in a home like this? This is the question YouTube creator Salina Alsworth poses to viewers as she serves up a tour of Proenneke's cabin In the YouTube film, Salina - who lives in a remote village close by - explains that the only way of getting to the cabin is via a floatplane and her grandfather would help fly supplies in In Salina's new video tour of the cabin, she reveals how the interior is pretty much how he left it following his final visit in 2000 at the age of 84 In Salina's video tour, the camera pans around to show Proenneke's bunk, with his tools laid out on the lower level Concluding her tour, Salina notes how her family's lodge, Lake Clark Resort, offers trips to Proenneke's cabin Proenneke's cabin and outbuildings were listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2007 He went on to die in 2003 of a stroke aged 86 in Hemet, California, where he was living with his brother, Raymond. While in his Alaska cabin, Salina points out the desk area, where she said Proenneke liked to sit and journal. The conservationist's journals were later arranged in chronological order and turned into three books; A Life In Full Stride 1981 - 1985, Your Life Here Is An Inspiration 1986 - 1991, and Reaching The End Of The Trail 1992 - 2000. In a film made by the National Park Service, a narrator reads a passage from one of Proenneke's journals with it offering an insight into his views around modernization and urban living. It reads: 'Needs.... I guess that's what bothers so many folks. They keep expanding their needs until they are too dependent on too many things and too many other people. 'I wonder how many things in the average American home could be eliminated if the question were asked, "Must I really have this?" 'Funny thing about comfort, most people don't work hard enough physically anymore and comfort is not easy to find. 'It's surprising how comfortable a hard bunk can be after you've come down off a mountain.' In Salina's video tour, the camera pans around to show Proenneke's bunk, with his tools laid out on the lower level. Along with journaling, Salina reveals that the naturalist also 'recorded weather patterns and moon faces before that was even on a calendar, and he tracked the animals.' Proenneke seen on his last visit to his cabin at the age of 84 He went on to die in 2003 of a stroke aged 86 in Hemet, California, where he was living with his brother, Raymond Wildlife photography and cinematography were among his other passions. Before exiting the cabin, Salina points out that it has a gravel floor and Proenneke 'actually sifted through the gravel that was on the beach' to make it. 'He would take the rocks out and wash them periodically to keep his floor clean,' she added. Moving outside, Salina showcases some of the outbuildings, which include an outhouse, a log store and a tall structure where Proenneke would store food to stop animals from eating it. Concluding her tour, Salina notes how her family's lodge, Lake Clark Resort, offers trips to Proenneke's cabin. Many viewers have thanked her for offering the video tour with many deeming Proenneke's legacy 'beautiful' and inspirational. Proenneke's cabin and outbuildings were listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2007. The National Park Service notes that the site is 'recognized nationally for its stature as an excellent and well-known example of an Alaskan bush log cabin.' 'It is also recognized for Richard Proenneke's voice in the preservation of wilderness in Alaska,' he added. 'Proenneke's interests, talents, and circumstances made him influential in shaping and educating the public about the wisdom of conservation of our natural world.' ONE DAY Netflix Rating: Fifteen years after it became the book you saw being devoured on every train and plane, and 13 years after it became a disappointingly meh movie starring Anne Hathaway, David Nichollss blockbusting novel One Day belatedly gets to live its best life, on the telly. Nichollss strength is characters and dialogue. He honed his craft as a screenwriter (Cold Feet, among others) before turning to prose which, as a result, always feels believable. One Days tricksy plot device the story of a friendship that starts at uni on graduation day, 15 July 1988, and unfolds every 15 July over the next 20 years is memorable but creates its own constraints; a lot of the big stuff necessarily happens off-page and off-screen. However, youll find no plot spoilers here; its conceivable there are still a few people left on the planet who havent previously enjoyed Emma and Dexters relationship. One reason the movie failed to pack the novels emotional punch was that shoehorning 20 years into 108 minutes meant you ended up watching CVs rather than lives. But over 14 30-minute episodes, its hard not to invest in Em and Dex and root for them. Now, with room to breathe, the dialogue sparkles and crackles throughout. Sniff his head! demands Ems bestie, Tilly (Amber Grappy), referring to her newborn son. Like the back of a watch strap, Em responds. Meanwhile, other supporting characters such as Dexs partner Sylvie (Eleanor Tomlinson), Ems boyfriend Ian (Jonny Weldon) and Dexs dad Stephen (Tim McInnerney) all escape sketchiness and are properly 3D. ONE DAY: A lifetime with these lovers is the perfect Valentine's tearjerker, reviews KATHRYN FLETT However, its the central performances that matter. Emma Morley wasnt conceived as an Anglo-Indian Millennial; having graduated in 1988, she was presumably born in 1966/67, making her Gen X. But, 15 years on, Ambika Mod (This Is Going To Hurt) makes Emma her own. Maturing convincingly from spiky student idealist to adult pragmatist without losing her sense of humour, her Emma is a delightful foil/sparring partner/love interest/friend. Meanwhile, charming, handsome Dexters youthful love-to-loathsomeness is captured with breezy brilliance by Leo Woodall (above, with Mod), whose seductive performance as lovable rogue Jack effectively stole the second season of The White Lotus. His ability to embody Dexs slow-burning ascent to emotional complexity is more of a surprise; while the acting chops he shows during one heart-rending soliloquy ensures hell escape the inevitable burden of being this years global heart-throb. If I had one criticism its about the characters: when was Dex ever likeable enough as a youngster for Emma to love him as much as she did? And would Emmas comparatively dull young adulthood ever have been enough to retain Dexs attention? But these are minor quibbles. If youve not seen it, you could time it so you watch the last episodes on Valentines Day. In which case, stock up on tissues (and wine) and prepare to fall in love with this treat of a tearjerker. Fun... but Sue's no Simon Reeve SUE PERKINS: LOST IN ALASKA Fridays, Channel 5 Rating: Should you watch Lost In Alaska expecting Sue Perkins to channel her inner Simon Reeve in the biggest and third least populous state in the USA, then heres a no-surprise spoiler: she doesnt. Says Sue, after bear survival training, I was scared by a grown man wearing fur fabric. This doesnt bode well for the wilderness. If youre a fan of Ms Perkinss ever-ready wit and empathy then the former Bake Off presenters visceral aversion to, for example, hunters shooting and fisherfolk fishing, may have you shouting, I hear you! If not, then her heart-on-her-sleeve urban wokery may jar. Lets face it, even an easy-going, Perkins-friendly Alaska is a long way from soggy bottoms in a sun-dappled home counties tent. Will Sue resist embarking on her own reality TV-style emotional journey, or can she embody True Detective and summon Jodie Foster-style reserves of Alaskan pragmatism? Can her journey turn mystical with more beers than bears? As she admits, its not just food thats supersized here, its experience. Not to be confused with Junior MasterChef, the Young MasterChef (BBC iPlayer) competitors are 18-25, barely younger than guest star Tom Booton was when he became head chef at The Grill at The Dorchester 26. Finalists Famara, Sheryl and Lewis overcame nerves and the odd catastrophe, revealing they all had what it took. Picking a winner was a tough call for judges Poppy OToole and Big Has; all three dished up (as Famara observed) passion on a plate. Entering a struggling industry, I wish them all the best. Still waiting for a twist... Cush Jumbo (The Good Wife) is DS June Lenker with Peter Capaldi (The Thick Of It) as her nemesis in Criminal Record Im halfway through Criminal Record (Apple TV+). Cush Jumbo (The Good Wife, above) is DS June Lenker with Peter Capaldi (The Thick Of It) as her nemesis, DCI Daniel Hegarty. Both are working in seemingly different directions on a cold-case murder. At the time of writing Im waiting for any kind of unpredictable plot twist. I assume actors of this calibre wouldnt have bothered to turn up if there wasnt one, so Ill keep going. A new documentary will explore why the friendship between Adrian Edmondson and Rik Mayall proved a hit with audiences in the 'tempestuous and anarchic' 90s comedy Bottom. Comedians Adrian and Rik, who met at Manchester University, were two hapless and disgusting flatmates in the slapstick sitcom which ran from 1991 to 1995. Adrian, 67, will revisit the show in comedy channel Gold's Bottom: Exposed, which features footage that has never been broadcast, stories from filming and a look at the relationship between the two lead actors. The comic, who also appeared in The Young Ones with Mayall, said: 'A long time ago, deep in the mists of time, two blokes - I was one of them, Rik Mayall was the other - decided to make a career out of beating the s**t out of each other. 'It was a tempestuous, an anarchic and occasionally quite a dangerous time - we both required hospital treatment on occasion - but above all, it was bloody good fun. We made each other laugh and, luckily for us, we made audiences laugh. A new documentary will explore why the friendship between Adrian Edmondson and Rik Mayall proved a hit with audiences in the 'tempestuous and anarchic' 90s comedy Bottom Adrian, 67, will revisit the show in Gold's Bottom: Exposed, which features footage that has never been broadcast, stories from filming and a look at the relationship between the actors 'This programme seeks to get to the bottom of why it worked.' Rik, who died age 56 in 2014, was also known for the comedy series Believe Nothing and Filthy Rich & Catflap, with Adrian, and black comedy Drop Dead Fred, about an girl's imaginary friend that reappears when she is in an adult. The Gold special will be narrated by presenter, comedian and actor Stephen Fry, who Rik worked with in Blackadder when he played Lord Flashheart and The New Statesman as Alan B'Stard MP. Former Bottom cast members Absolutely Fabulous actress Helen Lederer, Pirates Of The Caribbean film series star Kevin McNally, theatre actor Roger Sloman, The Bill actress Lisa Maxwell and EastEnders actor Paul Bradley will also talk about the show. Bottom producer and series director Ed Bye, who also worked on science fiction comedy Red Dwarf, is also among the contributors. In the original show, Adrian as Edward 'Eddie' Elizabeth Hitler and Mayall as Richard 'Richie' Richard often failed to romance women while being unemployed and living in Hammersmith, London. Rik died age 56 in 2014, was also known for the comedy series Believe Nothing and Filthy Rich & Catflap (pictured in 2011) Comedians Adrian and Rik, who met at Manchester University, were two hapless and disgusting flatmates in the slapstick sitcom which ran from 1991 to 1995 The duo rarely leave the flat, meaning its largely a self-contained show. When the two friends, who are also frequently trying to hurt each other physically and emotionally, do venture out they are mainly seen at the local pub, The Lamb and Flag. Rik and Adrian continued to reprise their awful characters in various stage shows but attempts at a TV revival proved unsuccessful. A film, Guest House Paradiso, which sees them run a guest house was released in 1999. In August 2012, the BBC announced the Bottom characters would return in a show called Hooligan's Island, based on their stage show where they end up being shipwrecked, but within weeks Edmondson had ruled it out. They had briefly appeared together a year earlier on Let's Dance For Comic Relief, when Rik hit him over the head with a frying pan during a routine, echoing the outrageous behaviour of their characters. The 120-minute documentary will also see fans such as comedians Chris McCausland and Maisie Adam reflect on the show and its impact on the sitcom genre. Executive producer Matt Crook, managing director of Studio Crook, said: 'It was such a huge show and has never had a documentary until now, so we feel incredibly privileged and excited to be given this opportunity by UKTV to work with Adrian Edmondson and Rik Mayall's estate to celebrate one of the greatest sitcoms of all time.' Bottom: Exposed will air on Gold later this year. The Bottom boxset will also be available on Sky, Virgin and NOW. Internationally acclaimed horror movie Talk to Me and hit Amazon series The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart dominated the 2024 AACTA Industry Awards on Thursday night. The ceremony was held on the Gold Coast at the Home of the Arts (HOTA) and hosted by American entertainer Harry Connick Jr. Danny and Michael Philippou's Talk to Me cleaned up in the film category, with their smash hit indie film taking out Best Editing, Best Original Score, Best Screenplay, Best Sound, and Best Hair and Makeup. Meanwhile The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart also won a slew of awards for the television category. The Amazon series, based on the hit novel of the same name and starring movie star legend Sigourney Weaver, picked up Best Cinematography, Best Production Design, and Best Sound. Internationally acclaimed horror movie Talk to Me (pictured) and hit Amazon series The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart dominated the 2024 AACTA Industry Awards on Thursday night The ceremony was held on the Gold Coast at the Home of the Arts (HOTA) and hosted by American entertainer Harry Connick Jr. Another big winner on the night was The New Boy. Directed by Warwick Thornton and starring Cate Blanchett, the film picked up Best Cinematography and Best Production Design in film. Amazon's black comedy crime series Deadloch also collected some gongs, with Best Casting, Best Editing, and Best Original Score in the television category. In total, 15 productions received recognition in 28 categories. Renowned Australian actors such as Warwick Thornton, Kate McCartney, Kate McLennan, Darren Gilshenan, and Zoe Coombs Marr graced the stage to present the awards. Danny and Michael Philippou's Talk to Me cleaned up in the film category, with their smash hit indie film taking out Best Editing, Best Original Score, Best Screenplay, Best Sound, and Best Hair and Makeup Meanwhile The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart also won a slew of awards for the television category. The Amazon series, based on the hit novel of the same name and starring movie star legend Sigourney Weaver , picked up Best Cinematography, Best Production Design, and Best Sound. Pictured: Alycia Debnam-Carey as Alice Hart in The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart Another big winner on the night was The New Boy. Directed by Warwick Thornton (pictured) and starring Cate Blanchett , the film picked up Best Cinematography and Best Production Design in film AACTA CEO Damian Trewhella congratulated all the award winners saying 'We applaud the exceptional craftsmanship and dedication of Australia's screen industry.' 'Congratulations to all the deserving winners, whose talent and innovation continue to push the boundaries of storytelling.' 'These awards not only honour the outstanding achievements of our industrys finest but also serve as a testament to the vibrant creativity that defines Australian cinema and television,' the CEO ended his statement. Amanda Laing, Foxtel Group Chief Commercial and Content Officer, as well as BINGE Managing Director also commended the outstanding Aussie talent. The AACTA Awards 2024 ceremony will be available on awards YouTube channel in the coming days and broadcast on Channel Ten at 7pm AEDT on Saturday. The Iron Claw (15, 132 mins) Rating: Of all the American families whose fame crossed the Atlantic those Kennedys, Kardashians, Osmonds, Partridges not many of us would think to include the Von Erichs, a wrestling dynasty from Texas. But dont let that put you off seeing The Iron Claw, a compelling biographical film which presents their story as an intoxicating cocktail of one part triumph to four parts tragedy. Set mostly in the late 1970s and early 1980s, it focuses on Kevin Von Erich, in which role Zac Efron gives the performance of his career. The pretty boy of the High School Musical trilogy and other frothy comedies has become a really substantial dramatic actor. Lily James keeps getting better, too. As Kevins sweetheart Pam, later his wife, she is excellent, and as convincingly Texan as mesquite-smoked brisket. From left: The Iron Claw stars Harris Dickinson, Zac Efron, Stanley Simons, and Jeremy Allen White as the Von Erich siblings Lily James stars as Kevins (Zac Efron) sweetheart Pam, later his wife, she is excellent, and as convincingly Texan as mesquite-smoked brisket In this particular instance the film is about the bonds of brotherhood, too, as well as toxic fatherhood I mustnt say as tasty, although they would in the film. These are unreconstructed times. You put that down, someone elsell pick it up, Kevins father tells him approvingly, after meeting Pam. Kevin is the oldest surviving son of Fritz (Holt McCallany) and Doris (Maura Tierney), whose firstborn died in boyhood. He has three younger brothers: David (Harris Dickinson), Kerry (Jeremy Allen White) and Mike (Stanley Simons). All of them have been raised in Fritzs long shadow. Fritz is a former champion wrestler whose signature move was the eponymous iron claw, a kind of one-handed head vice. And his dearest wish, unambiguously expressed, is for all his boys to follow him into the ring. One of them, Mike, isnt as strong and sporty as the others. He prefers his guitar to wrestling, which is why Fritz proclaims him his least favourite. He doesnt mind his sons knowing how he orders his favourites, indeed considers it an incentive to make him proud. The rankings can always change, he tells them. In the autocratic father department, Fritz makes his fellow cinematic Von, Christopher Plummers Captain Von Trapp, look like a bag of mush. And at least the Captain melted in The Sound Of Music. Fritz never does, even when his uncompromising demands on his sons lead, inexorably, to domestic calamity on an almost operatic scale. There are plenty of very good wrestling scenes in The Iron Claw, although writer-director Sean Durkin never quite reveals the extent to which the bouts are choreographed in advance Wonderfully acted across the board, The Iron Claw is a tremendous drama about one benighted family, but it also makes us think about our own clan dynamics. Picture shows Jeremy Allen White as Kerry Ahead of the premiere of the pro-wrestling biopic, 36-year-old Zac Efron got candid about the intense prep he put into preparing for the film and admitted he became 'obsessed' There are plenty of very good wrestling scenes in The Iron Claw, although writer-director Sean Durkin never quite reveals the extent to which the bouts are choreographed in advance, as those of us who grew up watching the likes of Giant Haystacks and Big Daddy on ITV on Saturday afternoons always knew they were. In any case, like all the best sporting biopics such as Martin Scorseses Raging Bull (1980), which in its early black-and-white scenes The Iron Claw rather evokes, this film is not so much about sport as character, drive, frailties and relationships those things that make all of us tick. In this particular instance its about the bonds of brotherhood, too, as well as toxic fatherhood. Kevin must stand aside as Fritz anoints first Dave as the likeliest world champion, then Kerry, who came late to wrestling after being forced to give up the discus, following the US boycott of the 1980 Olympics in Moscow. Its hard for him to suppress his own dreams while watching his brothers realise theirs, but Kevin is a pretty simple soul, in whom fraternal love burns even more strongly than personal ambition. All of which makes it truly heart-rending when, in ways that I shouldnt disclose, tragedy strikes each of his siblings, giving substance to what Kevin understandably believes is a family curse. Wonderfully acted across the board, The Iron Claw is a tremendous drama about one benighted family, but it also makes us think about our own clan dynamics. It did me, anyway. I wouldnt even metaphorically pin you to the canvas before you agree to go and see it, but its as fine and worthwhile a film, in its way, as Foxcatcher (2014), another captivating story ostensibly about wrestling. The Iron Claw is in cinemas now. Bob Marley: One Love (12A, 104 mins) Rating: At precisely the time that the Von Erich boys were making their mark, so was the hero of Bob Marley: One Love. Reinaldo Marcus Greens film is another biopic, but as such it is diminished in ways that make sense when the final credits reveal the names of the producers: the mighty reggae stars son Ziggy Marley, daughter Cedella and widow Rita. Is this love? And worship, yes. Reinaldo Marcus Greens film is another biopic but producers include the reggae stars son Ziggy Marley, daughter Cedella and widow Rita Kingsley Ben-Adir (left) is truly splendid in the title role, and gets strong support from Lashana Lynch as Rita (right) The film covers that fascinating period before Marleys famous One Love concert in Jamaica in 1978, when after surviving an assassination attempt he escaped the wild violence that was tearing his native island apart and holed up in London The film covers that fascinating period before Marleys famous One Love concert in Jamaica in 1978, when after surviving an assassination attempt he escaped the wild violence that was tearing his native island apart and holed up in London, where he and his band, the Wailers, recorded their masterly album, Exodus. Kingsley Ben-Adir is truly splendid in the title role, and gets strong support from Lashana Lynch as Rita, although the British pair give such full vent to the couples Jamaican accents that subtitles wouldnt be out of place. There are some great moments, but every little thing is not alright. James Norton is surprisingly drippy as legendary record producer Chris Blackwell; and Marley fans, even those who accord him the same messianic status as the film does, should recognise it as hagiography. There is no reference, for example, to the intense affair he conducted in London with the reigning Miss World, his fellow Jamaican Cindy Breakspeare. On the upside, however, the music is fabulous. Bob Marley: One Love opens in cinemas Wednesday, Ferbruary 14. Zac Efron is taking on another challenge in his next role. He will play not just one, but two different characters in an upcoming film after getting rave reviews for his performance in The Iron Claw. Deadline announced his casting in the black comedy Famous which is based on the novel of the same name by bestselling author Blake Crouch. The Baywatch alum, 36, will play 'world-class loser' Lance Dunkquist and Hollywood actor James Jansen. Lance is a middle-aged guy with no real career who lives in an apartment above his parents' garage and looks exactly like the heartthrob actor James. So he packs his bags and heads to Hollywood to see if he can make it as an actor too. Zac Efron is taking on another challenge in his next role. He will play not just one, but two different characters Deadline announced his casting in the black comedy Famous which is based on the novel of the same name by bestselling author Blake Crouch The film will be directed by The Righteous Gemstones director Jody Hill and produced by Emmy Rossum's husband Sam Esmail. Lance is an overzealous fan of James and has been mistaken for him dozens of times. He also has literally nothing to lose by moving to Los Angeles and taking his own shot at fame. The Amazon synopsis of the story line states: 'Part comedy, part human tragedy, and part suspense, the world through the eyes of Lancelot Blue Dunkquist is like none youve ever seen.' Efron is coming off the success of the wrestling family tragedy The Iron Claw in which he played real life wrestler Kevin Von Erich. He earned rave reviews for his performance and admitted he found some parts of the filming of the movie to be deeply embarassing. In an interview with Metro, The High School Musical alum opened up about how he found the wrestling ring an uncomfortable place to be and found himself dealing with embarrassing moments he hadn't experienced before. While it was demanding taking part in the aggressive sport, Zac found the awkward moments in between takes harder as he revealed he felt rather exposed in his underwear. 'One of the jarring moments that I wasn't expecting was when the wrestling stops, or there's a cut, or in between setups or takes you've just got to stand there with a whole crowd around, in your underwear. And there's nothing really going on. 'That's a different kind of feeling. I've never experienced that one before.' You just kind of gotta like, where do you put your hands? On your hips? You can't help there are people everywhere, you can't look up and have somebody not looking back at you! So that was a bit unnatural.' Yet the star admitted that he did eventually get used to it and believes you have to get uncomfortable when you are learning something new. The Baywatch alum, 36, will play 'world-class loser' Lance Dunkquist and Hollywood actor James Jansen Lance is a middle-aged guy with no real career who lives in an apartment above his parents' garage and looks exactly like the heartthrob actor James. So he packs his bags and heads to Hollywood to see if he can make it as an actor too Zac is a devoted big brother to his much younger half-siblings Olivia and Henry Zac also admitted that he found it difficult to meet with the role's physical demands. In an interview with USA Today, Zac confessed he had no idea how the real life men managed to be so successful in the sport. He said: 'You think you're getting the hang of it, and you speed up a few times and your confidence gets built up. 'Then you slam into one of those things just an inch too high and your rib is like gone. You can't breathe for a couple days.' Filming is well and truly underway in Rome for the Paramount+ reboot of Top Gear Australia, featuring new hosts Beau Ryan, Jonathan LaPaglia and Blair Joscelyne. The fresh line-up of stars were spotted getting along famously in the Italian capital on Wednesday as they filmed scenes for the new eight-part series, which will drop later this year. Beau, 38, looked especially dashing as he leaned into a fashionable European look - wearing a cream sweater and light-washed blue jeans. The former NRL player complemented his polished ensemble with a beige scarf, a brown leather cross-body satchel and white Adidas sneakers. The bag came in handy as it held his mobile and other belongings when he went for a bike ride through the cobblestone streets of the city. Filming is well and truly underway in Rome for the Paramount+ reboot of Top Gear Australia, featuring new hosts Beau Ryan, 38, (centre) Jonathan LaPaglia, 54, (left) and Blair Joscelyne, 45, (right) Later in the day, The Footy Show star was seen climbing into a bright red Ferrari to participate in what appeared to be a race with his co-hosts. Meanwhile, Jonathan, 54, kept his attire simple but elegant, wearing a pair of classic blue jeans and a black sweater to protect against the cold. The Australian Survivor host looked unrecognisable from his heyday, rocking slightly longer locks and a bushy beard. The fresh line-up of stars were spotted getting along famously in the Italian capital on Wednesday as they filmed scenes for the new eight-part series, which will drop later this year Beau, 38, looked especially dashing as he leaned into a very fashionable European look - wearing a cream sweater and light-washed blue jeans The former NRL player complemented his polished ensemble with a beige scarf, a brown leather cross-body satchel and white Adidas sneakers The bag came in handy as it held his mobile and other belongings when he went for a bike ride through the cobblestone streets of the city Later in the day, The Footy Show star was seen climbing into a bright red Ferrari to participate in what appeared to be a race with his co-hosts The television presenter barely cracked a smile on set, which could mean he is fulfilling the role of the grouchy member of the trio. Despite having a stoic look for much of the filming day, Jonathan appeared to get along well with his co-hosts. During the racing segment of the day, he was pictured chatting with crew and producers as he sat in a blue exotic Pagani Huayra. Blair, 45, appeared to be the jolliest of the bunch and was pictured having a laugh with crew members and his cast mates. Meanwhile, Jonathan, 54, kept his attire simple but elegant, wearing a pair of classic blue jeans and a black sweater to protect against the cold he Australian Survivor host looked unrecognisable from his heyday, rocking slightly longer locks and a bushy beard The television presenter barely cracked a smile on set, which could mean he is fulfilling the role of the grouchy member of the trio Despite having a stoic look for much of the filming day, Jonathan appeared to get along well with his co-hosts During the racing segment of the day, he was pictured chatting with crew and producers as he sat in a blue exotic Pagani Huayra Known as 'Moog' from his mega-popular Mighty Car Mods YouTube channel, the Aussie composer donned a casual outfit for the show. He slipped into a black zip-up hoody, pulled on over a grey T-shirt and donned dark-wash jeans. Blair accessorised with a pair of black boots before slipping a black cap backwards onto his head. Blair, 45, appeared to be the jolliest of the bunch and was pictured having a laugh with crew members and his cast mates Known as 'Moog' from his mega-popular Mighty Car Mods YouTube channel, the Aussie composer donned a casual outfit for the show He slipped into a black zip-up hoody, pulled on over a grey T-shirt and donned dark-wash jeans Blair accessorised with a pair of black boots before slipping a black cap backwards onto his head It seems the filmmaker will be driving a bright yellow Maserati for this particular episode of Top Gear It seems the filmmaker will be driving a bright yellow Maserati for this particular episode of Top Gear. Based on the famed BBC reality series of the same name, Top Gear gives fans a chance to get an up close look at the latest in car tech. Top Gear Australia debuted on SBS in 2008 before it moved over to Channel Nine in 2010 where it ran until 2012. The new eight-part series reboot is expected to drop on Paramount+ later this year. Based on the famed BBC reality series of the same name, Top Gear gives fans a chance to get an up close look at the latest in car tech Top Gear Australia debuted on SBS in 2008 before it moved over to Channel Nine in 2010 where it ran until 2012 The new eight-part series reboot is expected to drop on Paramount+ later this year Beau is pictured throwing up a peace sign Before hoping into a Ferrari Blair is pictured by the yellow Maserati he will be driving during this episode He had a laugh with crew members as he climbed into the luxury vehicle Blair and Jonathan are pictured arriving on set The pair went over the scenes they would be filming for the day with a crew member Jonathan is pictured receiving direction as he sat in a blue Pagani The exotic vehicle featured stunning brown leather seats Jonathan had to reach quite high to reach the falcon door The Australian Survivor star was so impressed by the high-end vehicle, he just had to snap a photo of it Beau, Jonathan and Blair all appeared to participate in a race with their luxury vehicles They could all be seen driving around Italy's capital city Blair is pictured driving the Maserati Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth (PlayStation, Xbox, PC, 59.99) Verdict: Epic silliness Rating: Infinite wealth, indeed. The name of the latest release in the Like A Dragon formerly the Yakuza series gives you a good sense of how it feels to play. Theres a seemingly endless amount of stuff to do in this game, and most of it is shiny and enticing and satisfying. But first: where are we in the series (also seemingly endless) timeline? This one acts as a sequel to 2020s Yakuza: Like A Dragon. It follows that games protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga, a goofy former street hoodlum whos now helping other gangsters find lives outside of crime. And it contains all of its predecessors charms. Theres Ichiban himself, of course: one of the most lovable characters in all gaming. Theres a seemingly endless amount of stuff to do in this game, and most of it is shiny and enticing and satisfying (screengrab from Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth_ There are even Yakuza-themed spins on other popular series, such as Pokemon and Animal Crossing The thing with having infinite wealth: you cant get through it all at once Theres the stunningly evocative version of downtown Yokohama. And theres the same enjoyable turn-based combat against various neer-do-wells all spun out of Ichibans imagination and his love for old Japanese role-playing games. Except theres more. After a prologue that (even for this Yakuza fan) may be a bit too slow and self-indulgent, Infinite Wealth takes the series outside of Japan for the first time to sunny Hawaii, where Ichiban goes in search of his long-lost mother. And that leads to more fights. More jokes mixed with socio-economic observation. More minigames. There are even Yakuza-themed spins on other popular series, such as Pokemon and Animal Crossing. Its a lot. Sometimes too much. But that is the thing with having infinite wealth: you cant get through it all at once. You have to give it time, let it work for you. You have to savour it. Persona 3 Reload (PlayStation, Xbox, PC, 59.99) Verdict: Dark delights Rating: We'rein a rich patch for remakes, redos and reboots. In just the past few weeks, weve had the brilliant The Last Of Us Part II Remastered and Another Code: Recollection. In the next few weeks, theres the excitement of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth and Star Wars: Dark Forces Remaster. And right now, slap-bang in the middle, theres this: a modernised and in many ways improved version of 2006s Persona 3, one of the most intriguing entries in a series of Japanese RPGs that peaked, in terms of quality and public awareness, with 2016s Persona 5. To some extent, this Reload of Persona 3 has been Persona 5-a-tised: it now plays and looks a lot more like the later game, with slicker animations and cooler-looking characters (if waifishly goth-y teens are your idea of cool). But much of Persona 3s originality and distinctiveness still shines through. This one with its story of supernaturally powered high-schoolers struggling against the demands of teenage life by day, then nasty, leering, multi-limbed demons by night didnt just set the tone for Persona 5. To some extent, this Reload of Persona 3 has been Persona 5-a-tised: it now plays and looks a lot more like the later game (Grab from video game Persona 3 Reload) If you played Persona 3 when it first came out, return to it now with all the accumulated experience of the 18 years in between Think Scooby-Doo, but where the gang of mystery-busters faces up to death on a nightly basis and not just the threat of death, but the meaning of it It totally committed to that tone, making it a darker, more challenging, more infective experience than any of its successors. Think Scooby-Doo, but where the gang of mystery-busters faces up to death on a nightly basis and not just the threat of death, but the meaning of it. As your characters battle, in classic turn-based fashion, up the levels of the otherworldly Tartarus complex, theyre actually travelling deeper into their own psyches. Which, in a way, is what makes this remake make so much sense. If you played Persona 3 when it first came out, return to it now with all the accumulated experience of the 18 years in between. What youll find is a far more adult game than it looks. Strictly Come Dancing star Amy Dowden has been teaching a couple who brought forward their wedding due to a cancer diagnosis to dance in a BBC series. The Welsh professional dancer, 33, previously spoke of how she felt 'robbed' of the year she had planned after finding a lump in her breast in April shortly before her honeymoon. She was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer in May 2023, and had to miss out on being a competitor on Strictly during the latest series. Caerphilly-born Dowden is returning to the dancefloor to help the public learn routines in the reality show Dare To Dance. The second season will feature a Wrexham FC-obsessed couple, who are getting married, and a cameo from It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia creator Rob McElhenney, who co-owns the team with Hollywood star Ryan Reynolds. Strictly Come Dancing star Amy Dowden has been teaching a couple who brought forward their wedding due to a cancer diagnosis to dance in a BBC series Across the four-part series, Dowden will also meet a young woman who gave up dancing when she started to lose her sight and lost her confidence, a firefighter who has a secret love of dance, and two friends preparing to dance at a Windrush Day celebration. Amy said: 'I am so delighted Dare To Dance is back. When I dance, I feel like I can overcome anything. 'It's something I want more people to experience, I really believe it can change your life. 'I was never going to let my diagnosis get in the way of what I love most and I am thrilled that my wonderful dance family could step in to ensure my wonderful students blew their family and friends away with their performance.' Helping her will be Strictly professionals Dianne Buswell and Graziano Di Prima along with a former dancer on the show turned Dancing On Ice judge Oti Mabuse. Nick Andrews, senior head of commissioning, BBC Cymru Wales, said: 'It's terrific to have Dare To Dance back on our screens but grab a hanky, it's emotional stuff. 'Amy has drawn together an incredible and brave bunch of people as well as some of her showbiz mates. 'This is foot-tappingly watchable telly with oodles of drama. It's both terrifying and joyful and only the remarkable Amy Dowden could have pulled it off.' The Welsh professional dancer previously spoke of how she felt 'robbed' of the year she had planned after finding a lump in her breast in April Caerphilly-born Dowden is returning to the dancefloor to help the public learn routines in the reality show Dare To Dance Since announcing her cancer, Dowden has provided updates when she underwent a mastectomy, and fertility treatment. Her last chemotherapy session was in November. She was diagnosed with cancer shortly after her honeymoon in the Maldives with husband and fellow dancer Ben Jones. Dowden told Instagram followers on New Year's Eve: 'I feel I was robbed of the year I had planned and reflecting for me makes me upset and angry but later I'm going to make myself look through my camera roll and remember all the good times, the amazing opportunities I had, family time but also taking time to realise I learnt the most this year.' Dare To Dance will air on BBC One Wales and BBC iPlayer next month. The outgoing editor of British Vogue Edward Enninful has unveiled the final cover of his reign, and it's a show-stopper. Here are 40 of the world's most famous women photographed together in a veritable wedding cake of celebrity. Models Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss; actresses Jane Fonda and Anya Taylor-Joy; pop stars Miley Cyrus and Dua Lipa and there, slap bang in the middle of them all, Oprah Winfrey herself. The star power is dazzling. The assumption is that they were all shot separately, then Photoshopped together. But, watch the accompanying video and you realise with shock and applause that he did manage to get all 40 divas in the room together. 'From London, New York, Paris, Milan and Los Angeles, they materialised as if from a dream,' British Vogue announced. Quite. Here are 40 of the world's most famous women photographed together in a veritable wedding cake of celebrity (pictured: March 2024 Vogue cover) Editor-In-Chief of British Vogue Edward Enninful attends the officially party celebrating Vogue World: London 2023 To ensure his final cover would be one to remember, Enninful gathered the likes of Victoria Beckham, Kate Moss, Gigi Hadid , Salma Hayek , Oprah and Miley Cyrus in one room to pose for the snap As a former magazine editor myself, I know how much wrangling of diaries, sweet-talking of PAs, and flattering of egos such a photoshoot must have taken. Imagine the discussions over where each star would be placed on the cover. Surely it shows incredible good grace on the part of Victoria Beckham, who is literally falling off the right edge. READ MORE: Behind the scenes of British Vogue and Edward Enninful's final cover: Video reveals how 40 of the world's leading ladies flew to New York at their own expense for iconic shoot Advertisement And where, dare I ask, is the Duchess of Sussex, who guest-edited the September issue of Vogue, early on in Edward's six-year tenure? It is a bold move, especially for a departing editor who, it is rumoured, has not parted on the best of terms with parent firm Conde Nast. Indeed, it is hard to resist the notion that Enninful is sending a message stateside with this cover. Bluntly, it says: Look how much these famous women love me. No one else could pull this off. Follow this! Not even his boss, Vogue's global editorial director Dame Anna Wintour, with her iconic 100th anniversary cover featuring ten supermodels for the April 1992 US Vogue issue, comes close. In fact, and perhaps this is the point, no editor is going to follow this. In September last year, Conde Nast made the shock announcement that Enninful would be replaced not with another editor-in-chief, but by a 'head of editorial content', an amorphous title that means very little other than they will probably be paid a lot less than Enninful. If you listen to the whispers, it is part of Conde Nast's wider cost-cutting plan, which included the shuttering of iconic Vogue House in London's Hanover Square just last week. Kate Moss posed up a storm alongside Victoria Beckham and Christy Turlington Jane Fonda was assisted by a cane as she strolled past with good friend Oprah Miley Cyrus and Kate Moss put on a leggy display in mini dresses for the photoshoot This cover then, with its ambition, glamour and downright audacity (because let's be honest, the budget for something like this won't have been pretty for the finance department) is a marketing masterstroke for Enninful rather than Vogue. It can be viewed as perhaps the chicest of farewell air kisses for British Vogue itself, relegated from here on in to a world of cost-slashing 'content creation'. Legendary! Is the single cover line on Enninful's final cover. Perhaps he wants us to feel that's as much a statement about the man himself as it is the world he used to belong to. Kylie Jenner gave fans a peek at her cosmetics empire by sharing behind-the-scene snaps from a photo session promoting new products. Taking to her Instagram on Thursday, the reality star - whose ex Travis Scott performed at Sunday's Grammys -- posted clips from her 'power plush shoot' and a 'foundation shoot'. She also offered a peek at her incredible physique, as the sizzling snaps showed her rocking a barely-there ensemble. Looking flawless, the mother of two flaunted her renowned figure in a black leather bandeau top paired with matching panties. In another alluring photo, Kylie adorned her curves in a sparkling gold mini dress while modeling one of the new makeup offerings. Kylie Jenner gave fans a peek at her cosmetics empire by sharing behind-the-scene snaps from a photo session promoting new products She also offered a peek at her incredible physique, as the sizzling snaps showed her rocking a barely-there ensemble The peek into her multi-million dollar business comes after the raven-haired beauty dominated Paris Fashion Week, where she continually stepped out in fabulous ensembles. The social media share also comes after she took to her Instagram to share sizzling selfies with her 399 million fans. Looking like a billion bucks, she posed in a lingerie set - a black bra and matching panties - while draping herself in a fur coat. She also took to her Instagram Stories to share a makeup tutorial, looking incredibly sultry as she demonstrated the application of her cosmetics. It comes after she was spotted in a faux fur coat and bright red pumps on her way to a photo shoot for PFW. On Thursday, she donned a head-turning ensemble at the star-studded Maison Margiela runway show where she was joined by sister, Kim Kardashian, and mother Kris Jenner. A day before, she and Jordyn Woods showed their friendship was going strong as they giddily waved to each other ahead of the Jean Paul Gaultier x Simone Rocha show. A video posted on i-D's TikTok account captured the brief moment. Looking flawless, the mother of two flaunted her renowned figure in a black leather bandeau top paired with matching panties In another alluring photo, Kylie adorned her curves in a sparkling gold mini dress while modeling one of the new makeup offerings Taking to her Instagram on Thursday, the reality star - whose ex Travis Scott performed at Sunday's Grammys -- posted clips from her 'power plush shoot' and a 'foundation shoot' The peek into her multi-million dollar business comes after the raven-haired beauty dominated Paris Fashion Week , where she continually stepped out in fabulous ensembles Fans expressed their joy in the comments section, with one remarking on Kylie and Jordyn's relationship, saying, 'Awww, they love each other; that's so cute.' The friendship between the women came to an end in February 2019 after Jordyn was involved in a cheating scandal with Tristan Thompson, who was then in a relationship with Khloe Kardashian, Kylie's sister. Meanwhile, Kylie is said to be going from strength to strength with boyfriend Timothee Chalamet. The loved-up couple put their chemistry on display at the recent Golden Globe awards. 'Timothee mingled for a little bit but was otherwise right next to Kylie the whole time,' a source told Us Weekly. Kylie's new makeup products were featured heavily in the photo shoot Looking like a billion bucks, she posed in a lingerie set - a black bra and matching panties - while draping herself in a fur coat. The outing occurred mere hours after Kylie took to her Instagram to share sizzling selfies with her 399 million fans 'They were having a very intimate conversation and shared a few kisses. It was obvious they have amazing chemistry.' The duo initially sparked speculation about their romance back in April, following their rendezvous a few months prior at Paris Fashion Week. Timothee has even met Kylie's two kids. She shares Stormi, five, and Aire, 23 months, with her ex-boyfriend Travis Scott, 32. 'Timothee has met them in group situations where there were other family members or friends around,' a second source for the outlet revealed 'It hasnt been anything where its just Kylie, Timothee and the kids in an intimate setting. And she introduced him as one of Mommys friends. Kylie feels like its [still] too soon to let them know anything about their relationship.' Riley Keough was spotted out in Los Angeles for the first time after making headlines about deciding not to pay back her late mother Lisa-Marie Presley's $1.6M loan. The 34-year-old actress and granddaughter of Elvis Presley was spotted out running some errands with her husband Ben Smith-Petersen, who she tied the knot with in 2015. Keough was spotted out wearing a grey hoodie with a black purse slung from her left shoulder. She completed her look with light blue jeans that were cropped up at the ankles and a bair of brown Uggs boots. Her husband - who she tied the knot with in 2015 - opted for a white t-shirt, black sunglasses, black pants and black shoes while carrying a beverage and a bag. Riley Keough was spotted out in Los Angeles for the first time after making headlines about deciding not to pay off her late mother Lisa-Marie Presley's $1.6M loan Keough's mother - the late Lisa-Marie Presley, the only child of Elvis Presley - bought Coes Hall, an estate in Rotherfield, UK back in 2010. She purchased the property with a loan from Barclay's Bank - and now the financial institution is allegedly claiming Presley had an outstanding balance of $1.6 million with them for the estate, according to a legal filing made by Keough, TMZ reports. Barclay's allegedly claims Presley personally guaranteed payment at the time she received the loan, and they are now looking at her trust to fulfill the personal guarantee. Keough, who was named sole trustee of her mother's estate following her death last year, has now asked a judge to declare that the trust is not responsible for the payment in a new legal filing submitted by her. In the filing, she claims there are several reasons why the trust is not obligated to pay the loan, perhaps the most important of which is the statute of limitations has expired. The bank had until January 12, 2024 - the one year anniversary of Presley's death - to file any sort of claim - which they allegedly failed to do. Keough also alleges her late mother only promised interest payments on the loan from 2010 to 2015. Therefore, the trust is not responsible for the outstanding principal, according to the filing. The judge has yet to make a decision on the matter. Keough's mother - the late Lisa-Marie Presley, the only child of Elvis Presley - bought Coes Hall, an estate in Rotherfield, UK back in 2010 Presley purchased the 11-bedroom manor with her then-husband Michael Lockwood in 2010 before she finally sold it off in 2021 for 3.35 million. Presley, the daughter of rock legend Elvis Presley and Priscilla Presley, died back in January 2023 after suffering cardiac arrest at her Calabasas, California home. It was later found that she died from a 'small bowel obstruction' caused by a bariatric surgery that she had undergone according to the autopsy. In August, Riley was named the sole trustee of her mother's estate and owner of Graceland following a legal battle with her grandmother Priscilla Presley. A judge approved the settlement in November. The approval confirmed that Priscilla would be receiving a $1million lump-sum payment, funded by Lisa Marie's life insurance policy, as part of the settlement, according to documents obtained by People. In addition, her son Navarone Garibaldi will be a beneficiary of Lisa Marie's trust as well. Perhaps most importantly of all, Priscilla will be buried near her ex Elvis at Graceland when she passes away. ITV has signed up a popular farmer to front a brand new cooking show, to replace James Martin, after he stepped back from TV amid his cancer battle. Jimmy's Farm star, Jimmy Doherty, 48, will host a new five-episode cooking show, titled Jimmy's Taste of Florida. The series will see him head across the pond to Florida, and visit 10 state locations, including popular destinations like Miami, Tampa, Universal Orlando, and lesser known areas including Anna Maria Island and St. Petersburg. Viewers will see Jimmy share food stories with an astronaut at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and race the fastest oyster shucker in the USA in Panama City Beach. The show kicks off on Monday, with Jimmy celebrating on Instagram with a slew of snaps from behind-the-scenes. ITV has signed up a popular farmer to front a brand new cooking show, to replace James Martin , after he stepped back from TV amid his cancer battle (James pictured in June) Jimmy's Farm star, Jimmy Doherty, 48, will host a new five-episode cooking show, titled Jimmy's Taste of Florida (pictured) The series will see him head across the pond to Florida, and visit 10 state locations, including popular destinations like Miami, Tampa, Universal Orlando, and lesser known areas including Anna Maria Island and St. Petersburg Voicing his excitement, he wrote: 'I love the USA but didnt know Florida well, so I jumped at the chance to explore a favourite holiday destination for Brits through its foodand it didnt disappoint! 'From boiled peanuts to Michelin-starred fine dining and everything in between, Florida has a great food story to tell. 'Im a cook rather than a chef, so I was on the lookout for simple, accessible, easy dishes that anyone can have a go at, and of course, I met some great characters along the way too.' Jimmy's hiring comes after celebrity chef James, 51, announced he would be taking a break from TV until the end of February. In November last year, he gave a heartfelt update to fans about his health while on stage at Liverpool's Philharmonic Hall for his tour show. According to The Daily Mirror, he said: 'On a personal note, I just wanted to say thank you for 30 years of television. 'For me personally, I've been through a lot of s**t with cancer but I'm getting sorted at the end of next month. 'I will be back fighting at the end of February but I'm going on a little bit of a break to get that sorted. I just wanted to say thank you for all your support and all your messages.' Viewers will see Jimmy share food stories with an astronaut at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and race the fastest oyster shucker in the USA in Panama City Beach The show kicks off on Monday, with Jimmy celebrating on Instagram with a slew of snaps from behind-the-scenes James revealed that he had an operation to remove the facial cancer after his diagnosis in 2018. The shock admission came after an extraordinary tape was leaked to The Sun where James berated his TV crew in a foul-mouthed rant over a blocked drain. He told the newspaper that the outburst was the culmination of a string of unfortunate events in his life, which began with the death of his grandfather, then was followed by a home invasion by masked burglars, and finally his cancer diagnosis. He said: 'I was then diagnosed with cancer on my face and I had to have surgery, which I couldn't do until two days before Christmas when we had finished filming. 'Since then it has returned on several occasions and I have to have regular treatments.' The abusive ten-minute tirade at staff happened during the production of his show, James Martin's Saturday Morning, and took place on a heated Zoom call in 2018 the same year he had surgery for his cancer. In the audio recording released by The Sun, James swore 42 times and said his staff should be 'f***ing fired' and ordered them to take their lunch break standing in the 'f***ing rain'. James said he 'wholly regrets' getting angry, and agreed 'lessons have been learned.' Jimmy's hiring comes after celebrity chef James , 51, announced he would be taking a break from TV until the end of February (pictured in 2021) Last year, he landed in hot water once again after being reprimanded by ITV bosses over allegations he bullied and intimidated staff on his food show. The broadcaster confirmed that it had spoken to the star after concerns were raised over the treatment of crew members during the filming of James Martin's Spanish Adventure in May. After investigating the matter, ITV chiefs told the programme's production company Blue Marlin that changes would be made immediately, online news website Deadline reports. Sources at ITV told the Mail that bosses would be taking a 'close interest in any future filming' featuring the chef, whose affable demeanour has earned him a huge fan base. Married At First Sight couple Sara Mesa and Tim Calwell may have left Confessions Week on rocky grounds, but the couple appeared to have quickly worked it out. The genetically blessed pair were barely able to keep their hands off each other as they went on a sun-soaked beach date in Bronte. As they frolicked through the cool waves together, the lovebirds could be seen sharing an intimate moment with the nutritionist, 29, embracing her TV groom. After taking a saucy dip together and having a playful water war, Sara and Tim, 31, cuddled up as they walked back to their belongings. Stretching out beneath the sun Sara couldn't keep her hands off her beau as she was seen rubbing sunscreen along his back. Married At First Sight couple Sara Mesa, 29, (left) and Tim Calwell, 31, (right) may have left Confessions Week on rocky grounds, but the couple appeared to have quickly worked it out The Colombia-born Canadian turned heads as she traipsed through the sand in a very skimpy red two piece which left little to the imagination. With her golden locks blowing in the wind, she was forced to throw it up into a chic up-do as she hid her eyes behind a pair of $660 Prada sunglasses. Meanwhile, hunky Tim flaunted his washboard abs in a pair of blue swim trunks. The genetically blessed pair were barely able to keep their hands off each other as they went on a sun-soaked beach date in Bronte As they frolicked through the cool waves together, the lovebirds could be seen sharing an intimate moment with the nutritionist embracing her TV groom The sighting comes after Sara refused to participate in the Phone Swap Task during Confessions Week. 'I'm happy to share everything,' said Tim confidently. Sara, however, felt 'strongly' about not sharing her phone, saying: 'I haven't given you a reason not to trust me. I feel like it's invasive... this whole thing is.' The Colombia-born Canadian turned heads as she traipsed through the sand in a very skimpy red two piece which left little to the imagination With her golden locks blowing in the wind, she was forced to throw it up into a chic up-do as she hid her eyes behind a pair of $660 Prada sunglasses Meanwhile, hunky Tim flaunted his washboard abs in a pair of blue swim trunks Sara put on a very raunchy display with a G-string bikini Tim couldn't keep his hands off his TV bride She rocked a very sun-kissed look The pair set up their belongings in the sand so they could have a good view of the ocean They were all smiles as they got in some quality time together Tim admitted his concern would be if she was talking to other guys. 'I'm not,' she reassured him. 'What's the point of trusting if we can't trust someone without looking through someone's phone. That's not trust.' The tension was incredibly awkward but Tim was happy to respect her decision. 'As long as you can acknowledge that's me supporting you and trusting you,' he told her. She is a big fan of dogs and often shares pictures of her own pet pooch Izzy on Instagram. And Naomi Watts was no doubt having a great day on the set of her new movie The Friend in New York on Wednesday, filming with a huge Great Dane. The 55-year-old Australian-British actress was seen walking her new co-star around Washington Square Park for the scenes. The Oscar nominee was bundled up in an elegant grey coat with large black buttons. The Adore star also sported black tracksuit pants and brown suede boots. Naomi Watts was seen filming her new movie The Friend with her giant Great Dane co-star in New York on Wednesday To keep warm, she sported a grey knitted beanie and a patterned scarf around her neck. She carried a brown leather satchel as a crossbody bag and a bright red leash to match the Great Dane's collar, which stood out against his black and white fur. She showcased her radiant beauty and flawless skin in light and rosy makeup. Her new movie The Friend is based on Sigrid Nunez's 2018 same-name novel about a woman and her bond with her dog. The 55-year-old Australian-British actress was seen walking her new co-star around Washington Square Park The Oscar nominee was bundled up in an elegant grey coat with large black buttons To keep warm, she sported a grey knitted beanie and a patterned scarf around her neck The Adore star also sported black tracksuit pants and brown suede boots She carried a brown leather satchel as a crossbody bag and a bright red leash to match the Great Dane's collar, which stood out against his black and white fur The story follows a writer, who adopts her late mentor's heartbroken Great Dane named Apollo, and the grief she shares with the precious pet as they both mourn their recent loss. During an appearance on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon in late January, Naomi spoke about her furry co-star and revealed his real name is Bing. She explained that he was much bigger than her dog Izzy. Her new movie, The Friend, is based on Sigrid Nunez's 2018 same-name novel about a woman and her bond with her dog The story follows a writer, who adopts her late mentor's heartbroken Great Dane named Apollo, and the grief she shares with the precious pet as they both mourn their recent loss During an appearance on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon in late January, Watts spoke about her furry co-star and his real name, Bing She explained that he was much bigger than her dog Izzy 'I have a dog that is six pounds,' she told the talk show host. 'This dog is 150 pounds I believe. And it's my co-star. He really is gigantic.' She gushed about the opportunity to play opposite an animal in a leading role on the movie and said Bing is 'very lovable'. 'It's not often that a dog has the starring role,' she said. 'He's a special dog. Very lovable. He's a good dog.' She also opened up about what it takes to act alongside a dog and explained they work with a trainer very frequently while shooting. 'I have to have all kinds of doggy trainings,' she explained. 'You know, every 20 minutes, we have to go through all of these these tricks. He can do a lot of things.' As production is still ongoing, a release date for The Friend has not yet been announced. 'I have a dog that is six pounds,' she told the talk show host. 'This dog is 150 pounds I believe. And it's my co-star. He really is gigantic' She gushed about the opportunity to play opposite an animal in a leading role on the movie and said Bing is 'very lovable' Cate Blanchett ensured all eyes were on her on Friday when she touched down at Brisbane Airport ahead of the 2024 AACTA Awards. The Hollywood star, 54, was dripping in luxury items worth an eye-watering $10,363 as she strolled through the carpark to her waiting vehicle. Hiding her eyes behind a pair of designer sunglasses, Cate carried a black leather $7,100 Louis Vuitton handbag across her body. The style queen proved she can pull just about any style off as she strutted out of the terminal in a double denim Stella McCartney ensemble, consisting of a denim and wool-twill jacket and matching jeans. The jacket alone retails for approximately $1,923 while the jeans cost around $1,340. Cate Blanchett ensured all eyes were on her on Friday when she touched down at Brisbane Airport ahead of the 2024 AACTA Awards She finished off her look with a pair of black suede boots as she wheeled along her carry-on baggage and garment bag. In her other hand, as her entourage took care of her massive checked suitcase, the Thor: Ragnarok star carried an electronic tablet protected by a red case. Cate's natural beauty shone through as she flaunted her wrinkle-free skin with a completely bare face and swept back her blonde tresses. The Hollywood star, 54, was dripping in luxury items worth an eye-watering $10,363 as she strolled through the carpark to her waiting vehicle Hiding her eyes behind a pair of designer sunglasses, Cate carried a black leather $7,100 Louis Vuitton handbag across her body The style queen proved she can pull just about any style off as she strutted out of the terminal in a double denim Stella McCartney ensemble, consisting of a denim and wool-twill jacket with matching jeans The 2024 AACTA Awards will kick off in Queensland on Saturday, with some of Australia's biggest stars making an appearance. For the first time ever the Gold Coast has wrestled the prestigious awards away from Sydney in a three-year deal. This year's 'Oscars of Australia' will take place in Surfers Paradise at the Home of the Arts (HOTA), with iconic actresses Margot Robbie and Cate Blanchett set to attend. The jacket alone retails for approximately $1,923 while the jeans cost around $1,340 She finished off her look with a pair of black suede boots as she wheeled along her carry-on baggage and garment bag Cate's natural beauty shone through as she flaunted her wrinkle-free skin with a completely bare face Margot, 33, made a solo low-key arrival at Brisbane International Airport last Saturday, just one week out from the ceremony where she is set to receive the AACTA Trailblazer Award. Meanwhile, Cate already received an AACTA win during the Industry Awards on Thursday night when her latest film The New Boy picked up Best Cinematography and Best Production Design in film. The 13th edition of the awards will also see renowned American director and film producer Ron Howard make an appearance. Meanwhile, Australia's own Rebel Wilson will lead the Saturday ceremony as a host. Kate Garraway has revealed she was attacked on social media by trolls for laughing during her return to Good Morning Britain on Thursday. The TV presenter put on a brave face as she came back to work this week alongside co-host Ben Shepherd, after the death of her husband Derek Draper aged 56. During a conversation with actor Larry Lamb and Marie Curie bereavement counsellor Claire Collins, Kate opened up about the hate she had received online. She said: 'I got a bit of flack on social media yesterday for laughing with you [Ben], as if that implied I didn't care... I have to laugh!' The segment focused on the widespread feelings of grief shared by millions who lost loved ones during the Covid pandemic. Kate Garraway has revealed she was attacked on social media by trolls for laughing during her return to Good Morning Britain on Thursday During a conversation with actor Larry Lamb and Marie Curie bereavement coordinator Claire Collins, Kate opened up about the hate she had received online (pictured on Thursday) Derek Draper (pictured) died on January 5 aged 56 following a four-year battle with complications from Covid Kate admitted she has been feeling 'very numb' since the loss of Derek and is only at the first stages of grief as a result of what Covid did to her family. She said: 'We were talking around this time last year, about the day of reflection and the importance of it. 'And I mean, obviously, I'm in a different place to talk about it now. And Im very aware of the sensation of grief, although also very aware that actually I'm only at the first stages and there's so many different stages of it all.' Kate later said: 'We are not equipped for loss. No one is equipped for it. Nobody wants to be able to face it but we are all going to come against it at some point in our lives.' The GMB host went on to say that her children have been struggling with how to deal with other people who feel uncomfortable around them. She said: 'I'm trying to help my children, one thing they've said is that people don't know what to say to them. They want to help other people to feel comfortable with them. Not to ignore it, but to help..' Kate added: 'Ben wants to know how to support me, so how does he do that?' Kate returned to presenting duties on Thursday for the first time since the death of her husband, telling delighted viewers that 'life has to start again' and 'nothing has changed'. The segment focused on the widespread feelings of grief shared by millions who lost loved ones during the Covid pandemic Kate admitted she has been feeling 'very numb' since the loss of Derek and is only at the first stages of grief as a result of what Covid did to her family She said: 'We were talking around this time last year, about the day of reflection and the importance of it' Larry Lamb was on the show talking about how Marie Curie cared for his brother Wesley, who died in 2019 Kate opened the show with long time colleague Ben who told her she had 'done Derek proud' with her conduct following his funeral last week. Kate thanked him and admitted to feeling 'wobbly', but said: 'I definitely wanted to make it about Derek not about me. 'It was really lovely as well to feel so much love from everybody here.' Last week, the presenter choked back tears on the programme just three days after husband Derek's funeral to reveal heart-breaking details of his final hours - and how daughter Darcey, 17, told him, 'We'll be OK, Dad' before he slipped away. Speaking about her decision to return to the show this morning, Kate affirmed that 'life has to start again'. She said: 'I got a bit of flack on social media yesterday for laughing with you [Ben], as if that implied I didn't care... I have to laugh!' Kate returned to presenting duties on Thursday for the first time since the death of her husband, telling delighted viewers that 'life has to start again' and 'nothing has changed'. She said: 'I don't know how it's going to be. Grief isn't containable in a day or year. 'People ask why I'm going back to work. Life has to start. We have to pick ourselves up and go on. 'That's what Derek would want me to do. Thank you to everyone who made it possible. 'We have to pick ourselves up, that's what Derek did and would want us to do.' Kate said that it was lovely, but 'odd' to be back at the desk. Ben complimented Kate's professionalism on her return Kate said that it was lovely, but 'odd' to be back at the desk Towards the end of his life, Kate became a full time carer to Derek (Pictured at the National Television Awards in London in 2007 It is the first time Kate has presented the show since December (Pictured last week at Derek's funeral) 'The make-up girls had me in tears this morning just by saying hello,' Kate said at the beginning of the programme. 'Thank you to all of you at home as well, I know I mentioned it on Monday but you have been incredible.' Co-host Ben Shephard joked he would give Kate a bit of 'leeway' before saying she did her husband proud with the 'extraordinary funeral'. 'You really did Derek proud, it was an extraordinary thing,' he said. Kate also joked: 'I'm going to be looking forward to a blow dry. 'I'm going to be finding fake eyelashes. I'm going to be very much looking forward to applying fake tan. Viewers were delighted to see Kate's return following her long hiatus Last week, she revealed details of Derek's final hours on the show and what her daughter had told her father before he passed Laura Tobin shared a sweet photo with Kate who wished her well on her return Susanna Reid praised Kate on her return and said it was good to have her back Viewers were effusive in their praise for Kate's long-awaited return to the screen 'Don't worry, I will be a little bit more respectable by Thursday. I'll be doing a lot of homework between now and then because I feel like I've been in a very small bubble. 'So I'm going to look forward really to coming into the world and sharing what's going on for everybody else and connecting with everybody again. 'So, thank you for having me back, and have a little bit of patience. I might be a bit rusty... there is a new king, isn't there? Have I caught up with that?' Kate also said that someone calling her a widow for the first time 'took her breath away'. During the show Ben Shephard, thanked viewers for their 'lovely messages' and read out one which said: 'Lovely to see you back, Kate, with Ben. As a widow myself, I know those wobbly feelings. Thank you for always thinking of others.' The message prompted Kate to say: 'The other day, somebody called me a widow for the first time - it took my breath away. It was an Amazon delivery person who said "I'm so sorry for your loss now that you're a widow" and you suddenly realise, and I suddenly realised, what everyone goes through. 'That every single moment is something new and we've all just got to get through it and everybody has it with all sorts of things they're facing. 'I really get what people feel about these things.' Kate also thanked the viewers for their supportive messages. As she and Shephard chatted with Lorraine Kelly ahead of handing over to her show, the TV host told Kate: 'It's fantastic to see you back... back where you belong.' It is the first time Kate has presented the show since December 8 last year when she was forced to take a break due to Derek's deteriorating condition. Last week, she revealed details of Derek's final hours on the show and what her daughter had told her father before he passed. She said her daughter Darcey had told Draper: 'Dad, if you can't do this we'll be OK. You release yourself if you need to go. 'Don't worry about us, don't worry about mum. We'll be fine because you live on through us.' Brad Pitt didn't seem fazed by recent allegations of 'volatile behavior' on the set of his 1994 movie Legends of the Fall on Thursday. The 60-year-old actor presented the Outstanding Performer of the Year Award to Bradley Cooper at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival. Earlier this week, Legends of the Fall director Edward Zwick published an excerpt from his upcoming book Hits, Flops, and Other Illusions: My Fortysomething Years in Hollywood, where he claimd Pitt, 'can be volatile when riled.' Pitt has yet to address the situation publicly, though he was all smiles at The Arlington Theatre in Santa Barbara on Thursday. The actor stepped out in a stylish dark brown suit, sans tie, with thin-framed glasses as he addressed the crowd. Brad Pitt didn't seem fazed by recent allegations of 'volatile behavior' on the set of his 1994 movie Legends of the Fall on Thursday The 60-year-old actor presented the Outstanding Performer of the Year Award to Bradley Cooper at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival Pitt was seen giving Cooper a hug before the Maestro star/writer/director/producer accepted the award. The excerpt of Zwick's book published by Vanity Fair said Pitt, 'would get edgy whenever he was about to shoot a scene that required him to display deep emotion.' 'I dont know who yelled first, who swore, or who threw the first chair. Me, maybe? But when we looked up, the crew had disappeared. And this wasn't the last time it happened.' A spokesperson for Pitt declined to comment when contacted by DailyMail.com on Tuesday. Pitt was cast in the role of Tristan Ludlow after Tom Cruise dropped out, though his agent allegedly called Zwick after the first table read 'to say Brad wanted to quit.' Producer Marshall Herskovitz eventually convinced him to stay. 'It was the first augury of the deeper springs of emotion roiling inside Brad. He seems easygoing at first, but he can be volatile when riled, as I was to be reminded more than once as shooting began and we took each other's measure, ' Zwick wrote. 'Sometimes, no matter how experienced or sensitive you are as a director, things just aren't working.' Pitt was seen giving Cooper a hug before the Maestro star/writer/director/producer accepted the award The excerpt of Zwick's book published by Vanity Fair said Pitt, 'would get edgy whenever he was about to shoot a scene that required him to display deep emotion' 'I dont know who yelled first, who swore, or who threw the first chair. Me, maybe? But when we looked up, the crew had disappeared. And this wasn't the last time it happened' Pitt was cast in the role of Tristan Ludlow after Tom Cruise dropped out, though his agent allegedly called Zwick after the first table read 'to say Brad wanted to quit' He recalled on instance when he gave Pitt a direction in front of the crew, which he admitted was 'a stupid, shaming provocation' 'His ideas about Tristan differed from mine,' Zwick went on. 'Brad had grown up with men who held their emotions in check; I believed the point of the [Legends of the Fall] novel was that a man's life was the sum of his griefs... Yet the more I pushed Brad to reveal himself, the more he resisted. So, I kept pushing and Brad pushed back.' He recalled on instance when he gave Pitt a direction in front of the crew, which he admitted was 'a stupid, shaming provocation.' 'Brad came back at me, also out loud, telling me to back off.' 'The considered move would have been to tell the crew to take five and for the two of us to talk it out. But I was feeling bloody-minded, and not about to relent.' 'I was angry at Brad for not trusting me to influence his performance. Also for the reluctance hed shown after the first table read. Who knows, I might even have been acting out my own inability to be vulnerable.' Power and road issues will be among the major talking points of a community meeting this afternoon for residents in the town of Porter in Rock County following powerful storms and a tornado Thursday night. The 5 p.m. meeting will be held at the Evansville Fire District station at 425 Water Street in Evansville because area roads around the town hall remain closed and power has been in and out at the hall, said Anne Remley-Haines, the town clerk. "We want to talk about what's going on and about expectations related to power," she said. While it remains unclear how many of the town's 967 residents are without power, it's possible that power for some may not be restored until Tuesday, Remley-Haines told the Wisconsin State Journal Friday. A press conference will also be held at 3 p.m. Friday by the Rock County Sheriff's Office at the Ace Hardware in Evansville at 755 Brown School Road. The tornado and severe storm that tore through the area Thursday caused damage ranging from major to minor "at several locations in and around Evansville," the Rock County Sheriff's Office reported Friday, with debris closing roadways and power outages spanning from west of Edgerton to Footville. Nicola Peltz and Brooklyn Beckham played pool while attending a swanky fashion bash in New York on Thursday evening. The aspiring chef, 24, and the actress, 29, lived it up at the Yves Saint Laurent pop-up shop among a host of other stars on the night, including Kate Moss' daughter Lila nd Jack Harlow, as they celebrated the fashion giant's Candy Glaze lipstick. She was sure to turn up the heat as she wore a pair of micro-shorts with a boob tube top, while her admiring husband looked on adoringly. Brooklyn - who makes his adoration for his wife very plain - could not stop gazing at the stunner as she made a statement with her look. The beauty wore a pair of staggering heels with an ankle strap and paired the ensemble with a Matrix-worthy leather jacket. Nicola Peltz and Brooklyn Beckham played pool while attending a swanky fashion bash in New York on Thursday evening The aspiring chef, 24, and the actress, 29, lived it up at the Yves Saint Laurent pop-up shop among a host of other stars on the night Nicola boosted her height with a pair of staggering heels with an ankle strap Far from just being presences in the cookery and acting worlds, the duo were sweethearts of fashion world on Thursday She was sure to turn up the heat as she wore a pair of micro-shorts with a boob tube top, while her admiring husband looked on adoringly Despite being at a YSL event, she was clutching a Chanel bag They looked as loved up as ever while departing the event Nicola could not stop smiling inside the party as she posed with her husband Brooklyn was sporting a plaster on his tattooed arm Lila Moss looked sensational at the party while wowing in a black top and jeans She slicked on lipstick as she posed up a storm to plug the cosmetics Lila proved she has her mother's model style nailed, as she preened and posed at the party while applying the make-up on offer. Jasmine Tookes looked incredible in a black poloneck with a floor-sweeping silk slip skirt and a waist-enhancing belt to show off her svelte frame. Adding to the glamour of the event was Justine Skye, who was flashing an abundance of flesh in a sizzling black tabard-style gown. The furry dress showed off both her sideboob and her endless legs, which were clad in low-denier opaque tights while she boosted her height in sky heels. Jack Harlow opted for a low-key look in baggy jeans and a striped top while performing at the event much to the crowd's delight. Olivia Jade - the daughter of Full House alum Lori Loughlin - looked elegant in a lengthy camel coat with a black clutch bag and slinky ensemble underneath. Another nepobaby came in the form of Sylvester Stallone's daughter Sistine, who wowed in a chic black ensemble. Jasmine Tookes looked incredible in a black poloneck with a floor-sweeping silk slip skirt and a waist-enhancing belt to show off her svelte frame Jasmine gave a slick of lipstick to promote the product of the evening Adding to the glamour of the event was Justine Skye, who was flashing an abundance of flesh in a sizzling black tabard-style gown The furry dress showed off both her sideboob and her endless legs, which were clad in low-denier opaque tights while she boosted her height in sky heels Jack Harlow opted for a low-key look in baggy jeans and a striped top while performing at the event much to the crowd's delight Olivia Jade looked elegant in a lengthy camel coat with a black clutch bag and slinky ensemble underneath Inside the party, Olivia unveiled her lithe arms and a hint of abs Another nepobaby came in the form of Sylvester Stallone's daughter Sistine, who wowed in a chic black ensemble Ariana Greenblatt was wowing in a stunning look d Nicola has been hitting the red carpet frequently of late, and last week she shocked fans cosied up to her mother-in-law Victoria, with whom she recently resolved a 'feud', at the premiere of her film Lola. She made a milestone by making her directorial debut with the upcoming drama titled, Lola - which is slated to be released on February 9. The budding star affectionately draped her right arm over her mother-in-law's shoulder, and Victoria was seen grabbing hold of her hand with her own. The screening comes shortly after it was revealed late last month that both Victoria and Nicola put their differences aside and made up over $2-per-pop vodka cocktails and Sunday afternoons playing Peltz's favorite memory game named Fish Bowl. Sources say they are now closer than ever thanks to spending Sunday afternoons giggling together over the 5.5 per cent proof tipple which contains 196 calories per serving. Speaking for the first time about his mum and wife's new close relationship, Brooklyn says they bonded over drinking cans of Vodka Snapper which is a mix of the spirit and fruit flavoured iced tea. 'We love Sunday roasts. Me and my dad share a bottle of wine. My mum and Nicola share vodka Snapple,' he revealed. Precious Lee looked stunning in a racy black ensemble Dominic Sessa looked dashing in a black suit with a black shirt Ariana Greenblatt and Sasha Calle wowed in chic ensembles Lila Moss oozed chic as she attended Yves Saint Laurent Beauty's celebration of new lip shine, Candy Glaze in New York on Thursday. The daughter of supermodel Kate Moss, 21, couldn't go wrong in a total black ensemble as she opted for a semi-sheer tank. She showed off her slim physique as she slipped into a pair of also black denim, accessorising with a fine matching belt. Adding a touch of class, she rocked a pair of conventional black stiletto heels while striking a slew of poses at the swanky pop-up. The model looked the spitting image of her famous mother, as her blonde locks fell down framing her gorgeous face. Lila Moss oozed chic as she attended Yves Saint Laurent Beauty's celebration of Candy Glaze in New York on Thursday wearing an all-black ensemble The daughter of supermodel Kate Moss, 21, couldn't go wrong in a total black ensemble as she opted for a semi-sheer tank She showed off her slim figure as she slipped into a pair of also black denim, accessorising with a fine matching belt The lavish fashion bash was held to promote the Rouge Volupte Candy Glaze, YSL Beauty's latest glossy balm. Lila donned a stunning face of make-up for the occasion with long lashes and a thick eyeliner, finishing off with the sheer cherry glossy lipstick. She gave a sultry look in the lense as she posed in front of the claw machine, which boosted plenty of the high fashion's fuchsia beauty cases, as well as the brand-new lipsticks in capsules. Lila is Kate's only child, and proved she has inherited her stunning sense of style. Nicola Peltz and Brooklyn Beckham were also in attendance, as they played pool while attending the swanky fashion bash. The aspiring chef, 24, and the actress, 29, lived it up at the Yves Saint Laurent Beauty pop-up shop among a host of other stars on the night. She was sure to turn up the heat as she wore a pair of micro-shorts with a boob tube top, while her admiring husband looked on adoringly. She posed in front of a lipstick vending machine at the star-studded party Lila looked sleek and stunning at the bash Despite the winter chill, Lila opted against wearing a coat while emerging She strutted her stuff in style while stepping out in her sexy look She finished off with the sheer cherry glossy lipstick, which the brand was celebrating She gave a sultry look in the lens as she posed in front of the claw machine, which boasted plenty of the high fashion's fuchsia beauty cases, as well as the brand-new lipsticks in capsules The lavish fashion bash was held to promote the Rouge Volupte Candy Glaze, YSL Beauty's latest glossy balm She wore her hair in loose lengths to showcase the flawless colouring Nicola Peltz and Brooklyn Beckham were also in attendance, as they played pool while attending the swanky fashion bash The aspiring chef, 24, and the actress, 29, lived it up at the Yves Saint Laurent Beauty pop-up shop among a host of other stars on the night Jasmine Tookes looked incredible in a black poloneck with a floor-sweeping silk slip skirt and a waist-enhancing belt to show off her svelte frame. Adding to the glamour of the event was Justine Skye, who was flashing an abundance of flesh in a sizzling black tabard-style gown. The furry dress showed off both her sideboob and her endless legs, which were clad in low-denier opaque tights while she boosted her height in sky heels. Jack Harlow opted for a low-key look in baggy jeans and a striped top while performing at the event much to the crowd's delight. Olivia Jade - the daughter of Full House alum Lori Loughlin - looked elegant in a lengthy camel coat with a black clutch bag and slinky ensemble underneath. Another nepobaby came in the form of Sylvester Stallone's daughter Sistine, who wowed in a chic black ensemble. She was sure to turn up the heat as she wore a pair of micro-shorts with a boob tube top, while her admiring husband looked on adoringly Jasmine Tookes looked incredible in a black poloneck with a floor-sweeping silk slip skirt and a waist-enhancing belt to show off her svelte frame Jasmine gave a slick of lipstick to promote the product of the evening Adding to the glamour of the event was Justine Skye, who was flashing an abundance of flesh in a sizzling black tabard-style gown The furry dress showed off both her sideboob and her endless legs, which were clad in low-denier opaque tights while she boosted her height in sky heels Jack Harlow opted for a low-key look in baggy jeans and a striped top while performing at the event much to the crowd's delight Olivia Jade looked elegant in a lengthy camel coat with a black clutch bag and slinky ensemble underneath Inside the party, Olivia unveiled her lithe arms and a hint of abs Another nepobaby came in the form of Sylvester Stallone's daughter Sistine, who wowed in a chic black ensemble Priscilla Presley danced the night away with Richard Lugner at the Vienna Opera Ball where the billionaire infamously pays hundreds of thousands for his dates. The Austrian entrepreneur, 91, memorably branded Kim Kardashian 'annoying' after she refused to dance with him and stormed out of the event after being paid $500,000 to attend as his date. However, Richard finally got the waltz he was after, as the former wife of Elvis Presley, 78, obliged in a dance with Richard during Thursday's ball. Priscilla was invited as Richard's star guest to the 66th The Vienna Opera Ball [Wiener Opernball], which sees 5,000 glamorous guests don their best attire. The upper echelons of politics, business and society are invited to indulge in an evening of champagne buckets - where the opera house is transformed into a giant ballroom. Priscilla Presley danced the night away with Richard Lugner at the Vienna Opera Ball where the billionaire infamously pays hundreds of thousands for his dates The Austrian entrepreneur, 91, memorably branded Kim Kardashian 'annoying' after she refused to dance with him and stormed out of the event after being paid $500,000 to attend as his date However, Richard finally got the waltz he was after, as the former wife of Elvis Presley, 78, obliged in a dance with Richard during Thursday's ball A tradition of the event is to have a celebrity guest in attendance, with Priscilla the chosen star for 2024. During the evening, Priscilla showed off her glamorous sense of style in a stunning sequinned gown as she headed into the event with Richard. Priscilla's eye-catching dress boasted an oversized black bow as she posed for snaps at the ball. Her dress was adorned with an array of metallic sequins and boasted elegant wide sleeves with a fitted skirt. Past star guests paid by Richard to attend as his guest include Kim, Goldie Hawn, Pamela Anderson and Lily James, with Jane Fonda taking the place as last year's invitee. American actor Jane said she accepted the Austrian building tycoon's invitation to attend the Vienna Opera Ball because he offered to 'pay me quite a bit of money.' Debutantes from across the world take to the ballroom floor in white gowns to perform an opening procession, accompanied by their partners in black tails and white waistcoats. In 2022, the ball had its first same-sex couple - two women from Germany. Priscilla was invited as Richard's star guest to the 66th The Vienna Opera Ball [Wiener Opernball], which sees 5,000 glamorous guests don their best attire The upper echelons of politics, business and society are invited to indulge in an evening of champagne buckets - where the opera house is transformed into a giant ballroom A tradition of the event is to have a celebrity guest in attendance, with Priscilla the chosen star for 2024 During the evening, Priscilla showed off her glamorous sense of style in a stunning sequinned gown as she headed into the event with Richard Priscilla's eye-catching dress boasted an oversized black bow as she posed for snaps at the ball Debutantes from across the world take to the ballroom floor in white gowns to perform an opening procession, accompanied by their partners in black tails and white waistcoats Richard nicknamed Concrete due to his roots in the building trade famously called Kim 'annoying' after she and her mother Kris Jenner attended as his double date to the bash in 2014. Kim claimed she fled the event because she was reportedly offended following a reported racial slur from a guest. After the ball, Richard claimed he branded the star 'annoying' because she would not dance with him despite being paid a jaw-dropping $500,000. But Kim insisted she was approached by a white male who was working at the event in 'blackface' and began to mimic her fiance Kanye West, which was why she ran away. Despite calling the Vienna Ball 'super glamorous', Kim admitted she had been already suffering anxiety largely because the event was 'super claustrophobic'. Then reality TV cameras then caught her shock at seeing the guest in blackface calling out 'Kim I'm here' - clearly pretending to be Kanye. Priscilla's outing ahead of the ball comes after she paid an emotional tribute to late daughter Lisa Marie on what would have been her 56th birthday on February 1. Lisa Marie died aged 54 on January 12 2023 - with Priscilla sharing a poignant snap of the pair in Lisa's teenage year as she marked her birthday. She wrote: 'I miss you 'Yisa'. You would have been 56 today. Still young at heart and yet an old soul. Mom.' In the photo a smiling Lisa Marie - sporting blonde hair - embraces her beloved mother. Her dress was adorned with an array of metallic sequins and boasted elegant wide sleeves with a fitted skirt Past star guests paid by Richard to attend as his guest include Kim, Goldie Hawn, Pamela Anderson and Lily James, with Jane Fonda taking the place as last year's invitee Her dress was adorned with an array of metallic sequins and boasted elegant wide sleeves with a fitted skirt Kaia Gerber sparked concern with fans as she shared a worrying snap from her holiday in St Moritz in Switzerland on Thursday. Enjoying a gorgeous trip in the snow-capped mountains with the jewellery brand Omega, Kaia looked sensational in snaps before things took a turn for a worse. The daughter of Cindy Crawford shared a snap of her nose dripping with blood as Kaia appeared bare faced and attempted to mop up the bleeding with a tissue. The model, 22, didn't reference the brutal nosebleed in the caption as she wrote: 'Beautiful St. Moritz with my @omega family'. Yet the snap still prompted concern amongst fans as they headed to the comments to ask about the injury. Kaia Gerber, 22, sparked concern as she took to Instagram on Thursday to share a snap of bloodied face during her St Moritz holiday Enjoying a gorgeous trip in the snow-capped mountains with the jewellery brand Omega, Kaia looked sensational in snaps before things took a turn for a worse American actress and filmmaker Natasha Lyonne sent her love to the star as she penned: 'Concerned about the bloody nose. Is this an altitude situation? 'Sincerely, elderly woman w vague connections to St. Moritz.' Replying, Kaia added: 'I think it was a system overwhelm caused by seeing the alps for the first time. however the labs are still being run'. Another asked: 'Are you bleeding from the beauty of it all or did you walk into a door?' Kaia looked sensational in the other snaps as she wrapped up warm in a gorgeous dark brown fluffy coat and black leather gloves. The star concealed her face with a black hood pulled over her dark brunette locks and a pair of large black sunglasses. She accessorised the look with a tasteful Omega gold watch as she looked out across the stunning snowy scenery. In another snap the star continued to flaunt the watch for her trip with Omega, while also cutting a chic appearance in a black military style black dress adorned with gold buttons. The model didn't reference the brutal nosebleed in the caption as she wrote: 'Beautiful St. Moritz with my @omega family' The snap prompted concern amongst fans as they headed to the comments to ask about the injury In another snap the star cut a chic appearance in a black military style black dress adorned with gold buttons Kaia looked stunning as she scraped her hair back in a black hairband for black and white snaps It comes after Kaia starred alongside 40 other iconic legendary women for Edward Enninful's epic final British Vogue March cover. Edward, 51, the first male and first black editor of the publication, announced in June that he would be stepping down to take on a new global role at publisher Conde Nast. And to ensure his final cover would be one to remember, he gathered the likes of Victoria Beckham, Gigi Hadid, Salma Hayek, Oprah and Miley Cyrus in one room to pose for the farewell shot. However, many on social media reacted in surprise when they saw some unfamiliar faces on the cover, under the label 'legends'. Several questioned how stars like Naomi Campbell and Serena Williams could be grouped into the same category as the likes of Lila Moss and Kaia Gerber. Both Lila, 21, and Kaia, 22, are the daughters of famous supermodels, with their mothers Kate Moss and Cindy Crawford also appearing on the cover. The two women dazzled as they posed at the front of the group, with Lila putting on a leggy display in a strapless black minidress. While Kaia cut a daring figure in a floaty cream negligee with semi-sheer cut outs, as she kneeled on the floor. Edward Enninful 's epic final British Vogue cover has faced criticism for including ' nepo babies' including Kaia and Lila Moss in the selection of '40 legendary women' However, many on social media reacted in surprise when they saw some unfamiliar faces on the cover, under the label 'legends' While both the stunners are working as models, many fans argued that neither had reached the status of 'legend' like their parents, and said they had not earned their spot on the iconic cover. One person wrote: 'What are the daughters of Kate and Cindy doing there??? Are they already Icons??? Certainly not!!!' While a second echoed: 'Greatest talents in fashion and one of them is just a super model's daughter who doesnt actually do much other then be kate's daughter'. A third fumed: 'Lila moss and kaia gerber on the legendary cover instead of Bella Hadid should be a crime!' While another quipped: 'whats the nepo baby percentage here' and a fifth agreed, writing: 'Kate moss's daughter really? the nepotism is through the roof'. Elizabeth Hurley looked incredible as she lounged in a sauna in her new sizzling shots which she posted to her Instagram page on Thursday. The actress, 58, showcased her jaw-dropping physique in a halter neck bikini-top, which lighted her ample assets, and matching skimpy bottoms. In the gallery of saucy pictures, Elizabeth posed on her side, before rolling onto her back as she enjoyed the relaxation session at the spa. Keeping it glamorous, Elizabeth opted for a full face of make-up including a heavy eye look and wore her hair in a bouncy, blown out style. Elizabeth revealed she was staying at award-winning luxury medical health resort VIVAMAYR in Maria Worth, Austria. Elizabeth Hurley looked incredible as she lounged in a sauna in her new sizzling shots which she posted to her Instagram page on Thursday The actress, 58, showcased her jaw-dropping physique in a halter neck bikini-top, which lighted her ample assets, and matching skimpy bottoms Revealing what she had instore for the day ahead, Elizabeth wrote: ' Good morning! May the exercise, detox and healthy eating commence' Revealing what she had instore for the day ahead, Elizabeth wrote: ' Good morning! May the exercise, detox and healthy eating commence.' Sharing her admiration for the snaps, Abbey Clancy, who also follows the health and wellness resort on Instagram, wrote: 'Absolutely perfection.' Before jetting to Austria, Elizabeth had been spending time at home in the UK after kicking of 2024 in St Moriz. The Gossip Girl actress was most recently pictured enjoying a night out with her long-time pal and fashion guru Trinny Woodall. Earlier this year, Elizabeth took to Instagram to give her followers an insight into her luxury holiday, including one of herself standing in front of a snowy backdrop. 'On Top of the World Loving 2024', she wrote. The former model reunited with her ex-husband Arun Nayar to celebrate New Year's Eve together. The actress and the multi-millionaire textile heir, 59, were married from 2007 to 2011, but have remained good friends after their divorce. In a fun snap posted by Elizabeth's son Damian, 21, the pair were branded 'mama and daddy' as they cosied up at a party. Arun is not Damian's biological father, but Elizabeth has previously said she always considered him to be his dad after the former couple got married when Damian was five. Earlier this year, Elizabeth took to Instagram to give her followers an insight into her luxury holiday, including one of herself standing in front of a snowy backdrop Fans have gone wild as Shania Twain is announced as the headliner for the BST Hyde Park Festival on July 7. The Man I Feel Like A Woman hitmaker will return to London as she joins a star-studded line-up, who will grace the London summer concert stage sponsored by American Express. The Canadian superstar will be joined by special guest The Corrs for the evening with more names still to be announced. Speaking about the exciting performance, Shania said: 'Ive seen so many of my own musical heroes headlining at Hyde Park and have wonderful summer memories there. 'It is a real privilege to headline my own show this year. Its going to be a s**t-kicking party!' Shania Twain, 58, has been announced as a headline act at BST Hyde Park 2024 for July 7 Taking to Instagram, Shania expressed her excitement for her return to London as she shared a video from her first ever performance in the UK back in 1999 Taking to Instagram before tickets go on sale on Wednesday 14 February at 10am, Shania expressed her excitement for her return to London as she shared a video from her first ever performance in the UK in 1999. As the star belted out Man I Feel Like A Woman to a crowd of adoring fans, she captioned the snap: 'This was my first EVER gig in the UK... There must have been around 50,000 people in Hyde Park. No pressure!!' She added: 'London - Im coming back for you baby!! Its a real privilege to be headlining on July 7th '. Shania joins previously announced headliners Andrea Bocelli (5 July), Robbie Williams (6 July) and Stray Kids (14 July) with more to be announced soon. Fans went wild for the news as they took to social media to share their excitement. One wrote: 'OMG OMG !!!! I knew you were up to something cannot wait to have you back here! Also I love that you announce this a year after you were here for the QOM album signing'. A second exclaimed: 'OH MY GOODNESSSSSSS' while another added: 'Yaaaaaaas Shania soooo down for this', Another penned: 'Omg omg omg. This is the best news. Aaaaahhhhhhh. I NEED tickets!!!!!! So so excited'. Another added: 'Aaahhhhhhh maaahhhh gaahhhhh ok Im flying to London for this!!!!! YESS'. The Man I Feel Like A Woman hitmaker will return to London as she joins a star-studded line-up, who will grace the London summer concert stage sponsored by American Express Speaking about the exciting performance, Shania said: 'It is a real privilege to headline my own show this year. Its going to be a s**t-kicking party!' The Canadian superstar will be joined by special guest The Corrs for the evening with more names still to be announced As the star belted out Man I Feel Like A Woman to a crowd of adoring fans, she captioned the snap: 'This was my first EVER gig in the UK... There must have been around 50,000 people in Hyde Park. No pressure!!' Shania looked to be having the time of her life as she strutted around the stage Fans went wild for the news as they took to social media to share their excitement Fans were also overjoyed to hear that Robbie Williams will also headline the festival on July 6 Fans were also overjoyed to hear that Robbie Williams will also headline the festival on July 6. One fan even had their 'emergency credit card' at the ready after the former Take That member revealed the news on X, formerly known as Twitter. Robbie is reportedly bringing his array or iconic hits to the summer stage, including Let Me Entertain You, Fell, Rock DJ and his best-selling tune, Angels. The crooners' fans have gone into meltdown after he revealed the London date on social media, taking to X to convey their excitement. 'Ive just ordered tickets and booked a room as I fly home from Australia, after seeing youmadness reigns supreme.' 'Good on you Robbie, you're a survivor and proof that you're still a great talent.' Sam Claflin appeared in good spirits as he was seen filming some night scenes in Manchester for the upcoming Amazon Prime's limited series Lazarus. The actor, 37, wrapped up in a brown coat as he got into his brand-new character for a new story written by the American author Harlan Coben and Danny Brocklehurst. The Me Before You star was snapped filming under the drizzle, as also the police joined on set for the fictional crime investigation scene. The Hunger Games alum was then seen laughing, as he ditched his smart coat for a navy padded jacket. Filming for the psychological mystery thriller began, and alongside Sam will star Love Actually favourite Bill Nighy and Welsh star Alexandra Roach, Variety reported earlier this week. Sam Claflin appeared in good spirits as he was seen filming some night scenes in Manchester for the upcoming Amazon Prime's limited series Lazarus The actor, 37, wrapped up in a brown coat as he got into his brand-new character for a new story written by the American author Harlan Coben and Danny Brocklehurst The Me Before You star was snapped filming under the drizzle According to its synopsis, the series tells the story of a man 'who returns home after his father's suicide and begins to have disturbing experiences that can't be explained. He quickly becomes entangled in a series of cold-case murders as he grapples with the mystery of his father's death and his sister's murder 25 years ago'. With Coben and Brocklehurst serving as writers and executive producers, the Daisy Jones & The Six star will have his hands full as he will be executive producer as well. Coben flaunts an overall deal with Netflix - especially after the groundbreaking success of Fool Me Once starring Michelle Keegan - but as Lazarus is an original idea, it doesn't concern that kind of contract. Returning to Prime screens after his role as Billy Dunne in Daisy Jones & The Six - Sam will star as Laz, who is described as a 'well-respected forensic psychologist who has spent his whole life running from the pain of his past'. But it seems he will be forced to face demons from the past when he finally returns home. Heather Curtis, current series executive for Pan-English scripted SVOD TV at Amazon MGM Studios said: 'Lazarus' is a gripping series that captures your attention from the very beginning. 'We're thrilled to unite with Harlan, Danny, Quay Street, and the all-star cast of Sam Claflin, Bill Nighy, and Alexandra Roach to tell this compelling story for our global Prime Video customers.' Alexandra, 36, who is known for her roles in The Iron Lady and Killing Eve, will play Jenna Lazarus. The police joined on set for the fictional crime investigation scene The Hunger Games alum was then captured beaming on the street, as he ditched his smart coat for a navy padded jacket With Coben and Brocklehurst serving as writers and executive producers, the Daisy Jones & The Six star will have his hands full as he will be executive producer as well Returning to Prime screens after his role as Billy Dunne in Daisy Jones & The Six - Sam will star as Laz, who is described as a 'well-respected forensic psychologist who has spent his whole life running from the pain of his past' Coben flaunts an overall deal with Netflix - especially after the groundbreaking success of Fool Me Once starring Michelle Keegan - but as Lazarus is an original idea, it doesn't concern that kind of contract (pictured at the Fool Me Once photocall in December 2023) Pirates Of The Caribbean sensation Bill Nighy, 74, will star as Doctor Lazarus, who is said to be a 'psychologist and father to Laz, Jenna and Sutton' (pictured at Paris Fashion Week earlier this month) Alexandra Roach, 36, who is known for her roles in The Iron Lady and Killing Eve, will play Jenna Lazarus (pictured in October 2017) According to her character description, Jenna has 'buried herself in a world of spiritual practice' but as soon as her brother returns home, she begins experiencing unexplained phenomena - and is finally forced to confront secrets from her own past too. Pirates Of The Caribbean sensation Bill, 74, will star as Doctor Lazarus, or Dr L., who is said to be a 'psychologist and father to Laz, Jenna and Sutton. A beloved figure within his community, he shares his son's charm, dry humor, and charisma. In death, he wants his son to understand that they are more similar than Laz thinks'. 'Do I have to say more than the names Sam Claflin, Bill Nighy, and Alexandra Roach to express my excitement about this limited series?' Coben said thrilled. He went on detailing: 'Lazarus' is a story of loss, redemption and the eternal bond between a parent and a child, even after death. It is never anything less than a thrill to team up again with Danny Brocklehurst and Quay Street Productions.' Fool Me Once team joined forces once again for the latest Amazon Prime project - as this is the newest collaboration between Coben, Brocklehurst, and Quay Street. Coben and Brocklehurst boost a long slew of collaborations as they previously teamed on the Netflix series Stay Close, The Stranger, Safe, and The Five. Meanwhile Amazon had previously aired thriller series Shelter - based on Coben's namesake novel. 'Lazarus is a psychological thriller with an emotional spine,' said Brocklehurst. 'It's about fathers and sons, love and loss. We have attempted to bring our trademark wit and warmth as well as twists galore. This is the first collaboration the team at Quay Street, Harlan and myself have done with Amazon and we are delighted to be partnering with them.' Nicola Shindler and Richard Fee will executive produce via Quay Street Productions, which is part of ITV Studios. Wayne Che Yip will executive produce and direct the first two episodes, while also Matt Strevens will produce. Quay Street Productions and Amazon MGM Studios produce in association with Coben's Final Twist Productions. 'Lazarus' is a story of loss, redemption and the eternal bond between a parent and a child, even after death. It is never anything less than a thrill to team up again with Danny Brocklehurst and Quay Street Productions,' Coben told about the series Ricky Gervais' former career as an aspiring pop star has resurfaced online - leaving fans in both shock and awe of his previous image. The Office creator, 62, Ricky began his attempt at a singing career in 1983, during his final year as a student at University College London, Gervais and university friend Bill Macrae formed the new wave pop duo Seona Dancing. They were signed by London Records, which released two of their singles; More to Lose and Bitter Heart. The songs failed to make the UK Singles Chart. Ricky has always been candid about his love of music - previously branding himself 'a frustrated, failed musician' - and while he did not break the charts, he left fans swooning when a performance from the 80s resurfaced on Thursday. Tickled fans wrote: 'Look at those cheekbones. What a fashion plate!... Jesus, what? Omg, i thought he always looked like a 50 yo... Yo wtf?! i never knew this until right now!... Whoa!... Holay fok! This is REAL... He has some Bowie swagger.' Ricky Gervais ' former career as an aspiring pop star has resurfaced online - leaving fans in both shock and awe of his previous image The Office creator, 62, Ricky began his attempt at a singing career in 1983, during his final year as a student at University College London, Gervais and university friend Bill Macrae formed the new wave pop duo Seona Dancing Ricky has always been candid about his love of music - previously branding himself 'a frustrated, failed musician' - and while he did not break the charts, he left fans swooning when a performance from the 80s resurfaced on Thursday While Ricky superfans will be all too aware of his early career path, a host of Instagram users were staggered by the funnyman's former career Tickled fans wrote: 'Look at those cheekbones. What a fashion plate!... Jesus, what? Omg, i thought he always looked like a 50 yo... Yo wtf?! i never knew this until right now!... Whoa!... Holay fok! This is REAL... He has some Bowie swagger' While Ricky superfans will be all too aware of his early career path, a host of Instagram users were staggered by the funnyman's former career. Despite his limited success in music, he achieved greater mainstream fame the following year with his BBC television mock documentary series, The Office in 2001. Ricky shed light on the fact that music seeps into his TV work, as he uses any outlet to showcase his work as a 'frustrated, failed musician'. His most iconic creation - The Office's David Brent - is also a failed musician, with Ricky releasing mockumentary movie in 2016 following the fictional boss' failed attempts at breaking the music charts. Additionally, during David Bowie's cameo in the second season of his hit show Extras in 2006 saw the esteemed artist break into song - composed by Ricky. In 2016, during an appearance on Graham Norton he said: 'I sneak a song into everything I do. I wrote a song for The Simpsons, I wrote a song with David Bowie for Extras. I'm a frustrated, failed musician.' Graham then flashed up a promo shot from his Seona Dancing days - and he insisted that he had come over bashful due to his current look. He said: 'Thats called Seona Dancing, lets move on. Im not embarrased by [the throwback picture], Im embarrassed by [my current look]. Everyones going, What the f**k happened? Ill tell you what happened: Pizza happened'. His most iconic creation - The Office's David Brent - is also a failed musician, with Ricky releasing mockumentary movie in 2016 following the fictional boss' failed attempts at breaking the music charts While his career in music floundered - the superstar recently made history with his latest accolade, winning the first Golden Globe in new category Best Performance in Stand-Up Comedy on Television. The British comedian previously insisted he had no chance of winning, but triumphed over Trevor Noah (Where Was I); Chris Rock (Selective Outrage); Amy Schumer (Emergency Contact); Sarah Silverman (Someone You Love) and Wanda Sykes (Im An Entertainer). He did not attend the ceremony in Beverly Hills on Sunday night, with comic Jim Gaffigan accepting the award for Ricky's Netflix special Armageddon on his behalf. While Ricky is no stranger to a Hollywood accolade and has previously won three Golden Globes for his work on The Office and Extras, his latest win no doubt raised eyebrows among his fellow celebrities. Not only has the comic angered several stars by branding Hollywood 'disgusting, pill-popping, sexually deviant scum', but he has come under fire for his Armageddon special, in which he cracks jokes about terminally ill children. Additionally, during David Bowie's cameo in the second season of his hit show Extras in 2006 saw the esteemed artist break into song - composed by Ricky Prior to the ceremony, Ricky told his followers on X, formerly Twitter: 'I'm nominated for another Golden Globe tonight. This time for my Netflix special Armageddon. Won't win, but it's nice to still be up there in the mix, flying the flag.' After his shock victory, he shared a selfie with his cat at home in London as he explained his absence from the American awards show. He penned: 'Thank you so much for all your lovely comments & kind words about my Golden Globe win. Best fans in the world. Im playing a 200 seater tonight in Kings Cross doing new material. The glamour. Have a great day!' While he was congratulated by many followers, he also wasn't without criticism. Among those who have hit out at the comic for his jokes is British disability charity Scope. During the Netflix special, Ricky pokes fun at Make-A-Wish requests, saying: 'I always say yes [to their requests]. And I always start the video the same way. I go "why didn't you wish to get better? What, you f***ing retarded as well?"' Pirates Of The Caribbean fans have threatened to boycott the next installment of the series after being spooked by the rumoured replacement for Johnny Depp as lead. It was suggested that The Bear's Ayo Edebiri was being considered by Disney to front the sixth film in the series, although others have rejected this claim. Seven years have passed since Pirates Of The Caribbean: Salazar's Revenge came out as the fifth Pirates movie and there have been continuing suggestions since that a sixth is going to happen. Faced with the prospect of a Depp-less edition, one fan wrote on X: 'If it aint Depp I aint watching.' They were responding to a post by an account called 'Unlimited L's' which also suggested that Edebiri's character could be based on the 18th century pirate Anne Bonny - one of the most famous female pirates ever. Pirates Of The Caribbean fans have been spooked by rumours that Johnny Depp is being replaced for the next movie Fans were spooked by suggestions that The Bear's Ayo Edebiri would take over the leading role for a sixth Pirates Of The Caribbean One fan commented on X: 'If it aint Depp I aint watching' Other Pirates Of The Caribbean fans reacted similarly negatively. They commented: 'Nobody will watch this Without Depp. When are they going to learn... 'Honestly I dont want any of these, I dont care about pirates any more if theres no Depp... 'Another flop, I'm sure... 'Disney will never learn 'Disney cannot replace Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow.. Depp created the roll!' However, it would appear that many were misunderstanding initial reports. Claiming to be the original source of the rumour, Daniel Richtman of RPK News, said that there was to be no 'replacing Depp', and that Edebiri was rather being considered for a spin-off. Any prospect of a new Pirates movie involving Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow seems bleak anyway, after the fallout from his court battle with ex-wife Amber Heard. Disney axed their star man in 2018 shortly before Heard wrote an op-ed implying that her ex was an abuser. In court in 2022 - giving evidence in his trial when he sued Heard for defamation - Depp said he would never work for Disney again, even if they offered him $300 million. One proposed spin-off has revolved around the idea of Margot Robbie as the lead, but there were conflicting comments from the actress herself and producer Jerry Bruckheimer with the latter insisting the idea was still 'alive' after the Barbie star said it was 'dead'. Richtman added that anything involving The Bear's Irish actress as Anne Bonny is not incompatible with a different spin-off with Robbie coming out at some point. Bonny formed a dynamic duo with fellow female pirate Mary Read in the early 1700s. Their capture in 1720 caused a huge stir back in Britain as it was presumed women could not be involved in such a violent, illegal practise. The pair dressed as men and 'fought like warriors' and were part of notorious pirateer Calico Jack Rackam's crew, which terrorised the seas. Bonny and Read were referenced in the 1724 book, A General History of the Pyrates, by Charles Johnson - adding to their legend. As their vanquished opponents lay dying, they would apparently expose their breasts to show that they had been killed by a woman. Bonny is believed to have been the Irish illegitimate daughter of a lawyer and a maid. She is thought to have been born in Old Head of Kinsale, in County Cork the turn of the 18th century, before moving to the US with her father who would dress her as a boy and call her 'Andy'. Some time between 1714 and 1718, Bonny ran off with a sailor to New Providence in the Bahamas where she met Rackam, falling in love with him and having a child with him - which they left with friends in Cuba. She left her sailor husband to become a pirate, with it said that 'no one fought more courageously at Rackam's side'. Bonny disguised herself as a man on Rackham's sloop, and only he and eventually Mary Read were privy to her real sex. Claiming to be the original source of the rumour, Daniel Richtman of RPK News suggested that he had been misrepresented, and that Edebiri was being touted for a spin-off Edebiri is supposedly being lined up to play Irish pirate Anne Bonny - one of the most famous female pirates ever Bonny (above) formed a dynamic duo with fellow female pirate Mary Read in the early 1700s In October 1720, Rackam and his crew were attacked by a sailors captained by Jonathan Barnet under a commission from Nicholas Lawes, Governor of Jamaica. Most of Rackam's pirates put up little resistance as they were too drunk to fight, but Read and Bonny fought fiercely and managed to hold off Barnet's troops for a short time. Bonny was saved from the death penalty as she was pregnant, she was said to have 'pleaded her belly,' a rule in English common law that allowed women to be delayed their execution until they gave birth. Her exact end is unknown, with no record of her death or imprisonment. Historians propose she may have returned to live with her father in the US. Naomi Campbell has revealed there 'isn't anybody' in the world who would have persuaded her to her do a cover shoot with her daughter, other than Edward Enninful. The supermodel, 53, appeared on the front cover of British Vogue with her daughter in March 2022, after welcoming her in May 2021. After Edward, 51, stepped down from his role as editor-in-chief with an incredible cover of 40 of the world's biggest stars, Naomi wrote about their 'unbreakable bond' in an open letter. Naomi, who is a mother-of-two after welcoming a son in June 2023, first met Edward when she was a young model and he was an aspiring stylist in London. The fashion icon described Edward as having a 'meteoric rise' in the fashion industry after two decades at magazine, i-D, after getting the job as fashion director aged 18. Naomi Campbell has revealed there 'isn't anybody' in the world who would have persuaded her to her do a cover shoot with her daughter other than Edward Enninful The supermodel, 53, appeared on the front cover of British Vogue with her daughter in March 2022, after welcoming her in May 2021 Naomi wrote in her letter, published in The Telegraph: 'What sets Edward apart is the trust hes earned from me and many others. 'His creative vision and commitment to our interests are qualities rare in our industry. I didnt hesitate to say yes when he asked to feature me with my newborn on the cover of British Vogue. 'There is nobody else I would have done that for, and there hasnt been anybody since.' When the cover shoot came out Naomi admitted she was anxious about fans seeing a different side to her. 'I was nervous because knowing you all for so many years and decades, seeing me in that different mode of being a mother, I was a bit nervous,' she said previously. 'So when my daughter arrived I was just like "oh my goodness", but she looked straight down the lens, and then she turned and that's the picture you all see. It was so quick.' In the letter, Naomi also commended Edward on being able to bring 40 stars together for his final iconic cover. Edward, the first male and first black editor of the publication, announced in June that he would be stepping down to take on a new global role at publisher Conde Nast. After Edward, 51, stepped down from his role as editor-in-chief with an incredible cover of 40 of the world's biggest stars, Naomi wrote about their 'unbreakable bond' in an open letter So how many did you manage to spot? 1. Anok Yai, 2. Kaia Gerber, 3. Naomi Campbell, 4. Dua Lipa, 5. Maya Jama, 6. Kate Moss, 7. Cynthia Erivo, 8. Simone Ashley, 9. Lila Moss, 10. Ariana Debose, 11. Jameela Jamil 12. Oprah, 13. Salma Hayek, 14. Christy Turlington, 15. Selma Blair, 16. Miley Cyrus, 17. Iman, 18. Linda Evangelista, 19. Jane Fonda, 20. Cara Delevingne, 21. Gugu Mbatha-Raw, 22. Gigi Hadid, 23. Adwoa Aboah, 24. Victoria Beckham, 25. Paloma Elsesser, 26. Gemma Chan, 27. Jodie Comer, 28. Precious Lee, 29. Amber Valletta, 30. Adut Akech, 31. Cindy Crawford, 32. Karen Elson, 33. Irina Shayk, 34. Laverne Cox, 35. Anya Taylor-Joy, 36. Serena Williams, 37. Rina Sawayama, 38. Karlie Kloss, 39. Vittoria Ceretti, 40. Jourdan Dunn Naomi, who is a mother-of-two after welcoming a son in June 2023, first met Edward when she was a young model and he was an aspiring stylist in London (pictured 2014) After sending out requests to his 40 cover stars, including Victoria Beckham, Kate Moss and Gigi Hadid, , Edward confessed he held his breath hoping they'd agree, before the celebrities flew in from London, Paris, Milan, Los Angeles and beyond to arrive in December (at their own expense) for the New York-based shoot. The ladies had been given three months notice to attend, with Edward writing personal notes to each woman asking them to participate. 'Similarly, Edwards honest persuasion brought together 40 of the worlds most influential women for a breathtaking farewell cover shoot. I deeply respect Edwards decision to step away,' Naomi wrote. 'When he shared his plan with me, I understood it because I understand Edward. He is genuinely invested in our industrys future, keenly aware that we must pave the way for creative talent, and is continually propelled toward greatness.' Earlier this week, Katie Price 'confirmed' her romance with MAFS UK star John Joe - known as JJ - as they were spotted looking 'cosy' on a night out in Newcastle. And just days later, the glamour model, 45, got up close and personal while heading for a meal at IRMAS Restaurant in Southend on Sea on the beachfront. The duo looked every inch the happy couple as they walked arm in arm, with Katie flashing her tattooed stomach in a crop top and combat trousers. JJ, 31, could not stop beaming as he strutted along with the showbiz veteran, following the shocking news that his co-star ex Ella Morgan blasted Katie for 'breaking girl code' by hooking up with the star. After pictures emerged of the Katie and JJ looking close, sources close to Ella, 29, say the reality star, who is transgender, is furious and feels 'betrayed' as she had become good friends with Katie. Katie Price, 45, put on a cosy display with MAFS UK's JJ Slater, 31, on an Essex night out after being attacked by his co-star ex Ella Morgan over their budding new romance Earlier this week, Katie 'confirmed' her romance with John Joe - known as JJ - as they were spotted looking 'cosy' on a night out in Newcastle. JJ, 31, could not stop beaming as he strutted along with the showbiz veteran, following the shocking news that his co-star ex Ella Morgan blasted Katie for 'breaking girl code' by hooking up with the star After pictures emerged of the Katie and JJ looking close, sources close to Ella, 29, say the reality star, who is transgender , is furious and feels 'betrayed' as she had become good friends with Katie The couple appeared to have plenty to smile about during the outing Insiders told The Sun: 'Ella is fuming and feels really betrayed by Katie for talking to her ex JJ. Ella and Katie have become friends over recent months' Insiders told The Sun: 'Ella is fuming and feels really betrayed by Katie for talking to her ex JJ. Ella and Katie have become friends over recent months... 'So it surprised her that Katie would do that. She doesnt have any feelings for JJ, shes just livid that Katie went behind her back and broke girl code.' John, also known as JJ, is said to have caught Katie's eye when they met following his appearance on the most recent series of MAFS UK last year. A source previously told The Sun: 'They've met a few times and are texting each other constantly. She's really into him - this is the first man she's actually been interested in since Carl.' Katie had spoken of marrying and starting a family with Carl many times in recent years but she announced she had split from him as she took to social media while seeing the New Year in with her pal Kerry Katona. JJ rose to prominence when he was paired with Bianca Petronzi on MAFS. When the the spark in their relationship fizzled he went on to exchange messages with transgender bride Ella behind Bianca's back. JJ and Ella were exposed during a dinner party when Ella's groom Nathanial Valentino exploded over the messages and stormed out, leaving the show. Insiders told The Sun: 'Ella is fuming and feels really betrayed by Katie for talking to her ex JJ. Ella and Katie have become friends over recent months' She was last spotted with Carl on December 21 last year as they stepped out arm in arm together after her pantomime performance of Sleeping Beauty in Liverpool She was last spotted with Carl on December 21 last year as they stepped out arm in arm together after her pantomime performance of Sleeping Beauty in Liverpool JJ rose to prominence when he was paired with Bianca Petronzi on MAFS. When the the spark in their relationship fizzled he went on to exchange messages with transgender bride Ella behind Bianca's back JJ and Ella were exposed during a dinner party when Ella's groom Nathanial Valentino exploded over the messages and stormed out, leaving the show John is said to have caught Katie's eye when they met following his appearance on the most recent series of MAFS UK last year. A source previously told The Sun: 'They've met a few times and are texting each other constantly. She's really into him - this is the first man she's actually been interested in since Carl.' Katie made the surprise announcement she was single in a New Year's video. She was last spotted with Carl on December 21 last year as they stepped out arm in arm together after her pantomime performance of Sleeping Beauty in Liverpool. Katie and Carl previously split towards the end of November and unfollowed each other on Instagram but appeared to have reconciled for the Liverpool outing before going their separate ways once again. Days later, Carl took a swipe at his ex-fiancee Katie Price as he posed while embracing a mystery woman's legs, adorned with a tattoo reading 'Game Over'. Katie was showing off her dramatically enhanced face Strictly Come Dancing star Carlos Gu has been revealed as the next famous face who will read a CBeebies Bedtime Story. His story will be aired to families across the UK in a special Lunar New Year celebration on Friday, February 9 at 6.50pm. The 31-year-old will be reading I Love Chinese New Year, written by Eva Wong Nava and illustrated by Xin Li, which is an introduction to the true meaning of Chinese New Year and the surrounding family traditions. It follows main character Mai-Anne as she learns about twelve animals and their special powers in the story of how Chinese New Year began. As her family start decorating the house, there is a knock on the door from her grandmother, Nai Nai. Strictly Come Dancing pro Carlos Gu will be the latest famous face to read a CBeebies Bedtime Story, in a special episode to celebrate the Lunar New Year on February 9 The Chinese-born dancer and choreographer is reading I Love Chinese New Year, written by Eva Wong Nava and illustrated by Xin Li In his second series on Strictly, Carlos finished sixth with TV presenter Angela Scanlon Mai-Anne's family start their celebrations with a traditional meal filled with fish for good luck, noodles for long life, dumplings for blessings and a whole chicken. Carlos said: 'I'm thrilled to be in the iconic CBeebies Bedtime Story chair this Lunar New Year, sharing the magic of storytelling with families. 'I hope this lovely story about the wonderful traditions and values of Chinese culture brings joy and warmth to all those who tune in!' The Year of the Dragon begins on Saturday, February 10, and ends on January 28, 2025. The only mythical creature in the Chinese zodiac, the dragon is believed to represent strength, health, good luck and yang - the universe's masculine energy in Taoist tradition. In his second series on Strictly, Carlos finished sixth with TV presenter Angela Scanlon. The Chinese-born dancer and choreographer joins the stellar slate of famous faces to have read a CBeebies Bedtime Story, including Jason Momoa, David Tennant, Geri Horner, Harry Styles, Elton John and Louis Theroux. CBeebies Bedtime Story is on each weekday at 6.50pm on CBeebies and BBC iPlayer. The dancer follows a long line of celebs who have settled down to read a story on the famous children's show. Pictured: Aquaman star Jason Momoa last December Actor David Tennant read The Way Back Home by Oliver Jeffers ahead of his Tardis return last year Geri Horner cozying into a rainbow blanket for her Bedtime Story last Octber Harry Styles got into his PJs for his story in May 2022 Sir Elton John said his priorities had shifted towards fatherhood ahead of his appearance in 2018 (above) Amanda Holden beamed from ear to ear as she arrived at the Britain's Got Talent auditions at the Manchester Lowry on Friday. The talent show judge, 52, posed up a storm as in a form-fitting black midi dress, patterned with an array of blue flowers. Showcasing her slim physique, she also flaunted her ample cleavage in the plunging gown, while she added a few inches to her height with some simple black heels. Wrapping up from the cold, Amanda draped her light blue coat around her shoulders after arriving at the event in her signature sunglasses. The star was joined by her fellow judges Alesha Dixon, Simon Cowell and Bruno Tonioli, while host Ant McPartlin and Dec Donnelly followed close behind. Amanda Holden, 53, brought the glamour as she arrived in Manchester on Thursday for the Britain's Got Talent auditions The talent show judge posed up a storm as in a figure hugging black midi dress, patterned with an array of blue flowers Simon Cowell, 64, put on a strange display on the carpet as he removed his coat but opted to keep his black gloves on Alesha channeled a business chic look as she attended the auditions in a matching grey and white pinstriped co-ord. Posing with her hands in her pockets the star cut a stylish figure in the oversized trousers which entirely covered her feet. The star scraped her hair back in a slick back bun as she completed the look with some large ear cuffs. Simon Cowell, 64, put on a strange display on the carpet as he removed his coat but opted to keep his black gloves on. The star arrived in his usual plain grey top and jeans as his assistant kept him dry under an umbrella. Shedding his black padded coat for the red carpet, Simon looked in good spirits after Bruno was seen keeping the TV star warm earlier as the foursome waited at the tram stop. Bruno wrapped his brown fur coat around Simon as the two attempted to share its warmth. The dancer looked over the moon as he greeted fans on the carpet after he joined the judging panel for the first time last year. Posing with her hands in her pockets the star cut a stylish figure in the oversized trousers which entirely covered her feet The star scraped her hair back in a slick back bun as she completed the look with some large ear cuffs Bruno Tonioli, 68, looked over the moon as he greeted fans on the carpet after he joined the judging panel for the first time last year Back again for round two, the dancer, 68, opted for a fashionable navy floral print jacket Amanda and Bruno posed up a storm on the carpet Meanwhile top dog Simon Cowell, 64, arrived in his usual plain grey top and jeans as his assistant kept him dry under an umbrella Simon stopped to take selfies with fans as they waited in their droves Ant McPartlin and Dec Donnelly cut a dapper figure for the event as they got suited and booted to meet the acts back stage Back again for round two, Bruno, 68, opted for a fashionable navy floral print jacket. Underneath he donned a simple white top and white jeans, completing the look with some black Cubin heeled boots. Ant and Dec cut a dapper figure for the event as they got suited and booted to meet the acts back stage. Ant, opted for a dark grey checked suit which he paired with some trendy red Dr Martens, while Dec donned a navy pinstriped suit jacket with navy trousers and shirt. It comes after Simon was forced to pull out of filming due to illness. The music mogul was pictured arriving to film a previous round of auditions in Manchester on Tuesday, after a crippling headache left him too unwell to work. Heading into the The Lowry, Simon flashed a thumbs up while sporting one of his signature all-black ensembles. While he was previously seen sporting a pair of tinted 'blue light filter' glasses, which are believed to help prevent migraines, this time he'd swapped them for a pair of his signature aviators. After Simon's health scare, a source close to the star told PEOPLE he's in 'fantastic health,' adding: 'He's better than ever and great fitness too, is biking and walking a lot every day and has started reformer Pilates for strengthening his back. Showcasing her slim physique, the mother-of-two also flaunted her ample cleavage in the plunging gown, while she added a few inches to her height with some simple black heels Showing off her red manicure Amanda arrived in her signature black sunglasses The whole gang posed together for a group snap Bruno flashed a thumbs up at the crowd The judges were spotted at the tram stop as Bruno was seen keeping Simon warm as he wrapped his brown fur coat around the TV mogul The pair were in hysterics as Bruno hugged Simon The foursome gathered together at the tram stop Alesha held her trousers up to avoid the puddles as she revealed her red Nike Jordan's Ant and Dec beamed in snaps as they walked to the venue Bruno sheltered from the rain under his umbrella as he made his way to the red carpet The duo have presented the talent show since it began in 2008 'All his friends are telling him to bring out a range of his own light-filtering glasses now to help others.' They went onto say that Simon is 'prone to migraines' due to being under the 'bright studio lights' and his light-filtering glasses can help ease this. It was reported on Saturday that Simon was forced to pull out of BGT filming after developing the crippling headache. A source told the Daily Star: 'Simon was due to film as normal but he started to feel unwell. 'After some deliberation, he told everyone he was unable to take part in filming. 'To say he was frustrated was an understatement. Simon loves making Britain's Got Talent, so he was annoyed that he had to miss filming.' Simon missed a small number of evening auditions after his headache came on and he left the tryouts early before returning for the next run in Manchester as planned. Simon and his fellow Britain's Got Talent judges, returned to filming for the upcoming series last month. Jonathan Majors and Megan Good seem to be getting even closer as he awaits sentencing after being convicted on reckless assault and harassment in December 2023. The troubled actor, who could spend up to a year in jail, has recently been accused of abusive behavior by two of his former girlfriends, according to the New York Times. Megan, 42, who has been dating the Love Country actor, 34, since May 2023, has been by his side, and the two have reportedly grown even closer according to TMZ. The pair, who jetted off the Los Angeles after Jonathan's conviction, have been staying out of the public eye. They reportedly completed a cross-country trip together. Jonathan Majors, 34, and Megan Good, 42, seem to be growing closer together even they face up to a year of separation after he is sentenced on assault and harassment charges in April Sources said the inseparable couple made a trek from Los Angeles to New York, with a stop in Dallas to visit with the Loki actor's mother, Terri, who was also by his side during the trial. Megan will soon be returning to the set of Harlem as it begins production for season three. A source also told People: 'Theyre solid and very much in love.' The Creed III star faces up to a year in prison when he is sentenced in April, if his attorneys are not successful in their efforts to have his conviction reversed. Jonathan's legal team filed a brief requesting the judge throw out the guilty verdict. Statements from two of the Devotion star's former girlfriends were submitted to prosecutors before his assault trial. One of them, Emma Duncan, claimed her four-year relationship with the Emmy nominee began in 2015 while they attended the Yale School of Drama in in New Haven, CT. She alleged Jonathan threatened violence frequently and once threw her across a room, but his criminal defense lawyer Priya Chaudhry denied the incident to People while acknowledging 'many serious arguments' did transpire. Another former partner, Maura Hooper, claimed she got pregnant when she dated Majors between 2013-2015 and, while he dropped her off at the abortion clinic, he did not pick her up after the procedure. The couple jetted off to Los Angeles soon after his conviction in December, and returned to New York after driving together cross-country, according to TMZ (Pictured in New York in December 2023) Two former girlfriends have also accused the actor of violence during their relationships with him, according to The New York Times. Both women submitted pre-trial statements to prosecutors (Pictured in West Hollywood, CA in March 2023) Megan is expected to return to work on season three of Harlem (Pictured in Los Angeles in March 2023) 'Mr. Majors and Ms. Hooper mutually agreed that they should end the pregnancy,' the actor's attorney Priya Chaudhry, told the paper, calling both women 'toxic.' In an interview on ABC News aired on January 8, Jonathan denied ever hitting a woman, but admitted he does demand that his partners have the grace and manner of Coretta Scott King or Michelle Obama since he's a 'great man.' The statement drew the ire of the late civils rights activist's youngest daughter, Bernice King. 'My mother wasnt a prop,' stated the The King Center CEO wrote in a social media post. 'She was a peace advocate before she met my father and was instrumental in him speaking out against the Vietnam War. Please understandmy mama was a force.' In December, the White Boy Rick actor told TMZ he was relying on faith and prayer for support, saying, 'God is good.' Emily Ratajkowski displayed her eye for winter style as she enjoyed a relaxed morning stroll through New York City on Friday. The influencer, who is set to return to acting, strode through the concrete jungle with a friend and her dog Colombo. She wrapped up in a chic button down jacket, Abrand Jeans high rise jean, and walked about in glossy burgundy boots. Emily's look was accessorized with chunky gold earrings and a pair of trendy, slim tortoise frames with a pink lens. The 32-year-old's glossy brunette hair fanned out with the breeze and cascaded down her shoulders. Emily Ratajkowski braved the cold in style as she enjoyed a laid-back morning stroll through New York City on Friday Emily did not appear to be joined by her two-year-old son Sylvester, however she did post a sweet photo of them playing about on her Instagram account. 'i really love being sly's mama,' she captioned the post. Emily shares her son with her ex Sebastian Bear-McClard. She wed Sebastian in 2018 and they welcomed son Sylvester in 2021 before she ultimately filed for divorce in late 2022. The post comes following news Emily is set to return to the acting world - she has signed on to star in Lena Dunham's new Netflix series Too Much. Netflix announced the project back in December, with Dunham creating the romantic comedy series with her husband Luis Felber. Megan Stalter (Hacks) and Will Sharpe (The White Lotus) were announced as the leads in the December announcement. The series follows Stalter as Jessica, a single workaholic recovering from her last relationship, who decides to start over and takes a new job in London, where she meets Felix (Sharpe), as they try to determine if Americans and Brits 'speak the same language.' Ratajkowski, who like Sharpe was born in London, will play Felix's ex Polly, via Variety, who is said to be the exact opposite of Jessica. The influencer strode through the city with a friend and her dog Colombo She looked incredible in her brown jacket, Abrand Jeans high rise jeans, and ankle boots The style icon glammed up the look with chunky gold earrings and stylish sunglasses She shared adorable snaps with her son Sylvester on her Instagram Emily shares her son with her ex-husband, Sebastian Bear-McClard Emily also shared snaps of this sizzling red look to her Instagram Stories Sharpe's Felix is described as, 'less Hugh Grant in Notting Hill and more Hugh Grant's drunken roommate,' and while he's not who Jessica expected to be attracted to, she still, 'finds that their unusual connection is impossible to ignore, even as it creates more problems than it solves.' The initial release also revealed that, like Sharpe himself, he was raised between his birthplace of London and by his family in Japan, before he returned to London. The show is described as, 'an ex-pat rom-com for the disillusioned who wonder if true love is still possible, but sincerely hope that it is.' Dunham created the show with Felber, who she tied the knot with in 2021, and she will also direct the series as well. When David Nicholls best-selling One Day got the big-screen treatment back in 2011, producers decided to add a little star power in the form of A-lister Anne Hathaway. But, it was the miscasting of the Hollywood actress as the down-to-earth, Yorkshire-born Emma Morley that saw the film become a critical flop, with many deriding her attempt at a northern accent. Ahead of the new Netflix series, bosses spent months scouring the country and putting hundreds of hopefuls through their paces to find the perfect cast for their new 14-part television adaptation. They eventually settled on Ambika Mod to play the role of Emma - only to be left disappointed when she turned the part down, the Mail can reveal. Hertfordshire-born Ambika, 29, who made her name in the BBC drama This Is Going to Hurt playing student doctor Shruti Acharya, initially decided she didnt want the job. Netflix One Day star Ambika Mod , 29, has revealed she originally refused the role as Emma after the character was previously played by Anne Hathaway in the film original back in 2011 (pictured Ambika and co-star Leo Woodall) Anne Hathaway previously played Emma Morley alongside Jim Sturgess as Dexter Mayhew, however the film become a critical flop, with many deriding her attempt at a northern accent The star explained she found it was a massive, massive undertaking given Emma was previously played by a white actress. She said: It was definitely originally written as white and previously played by a white actress. Im really excited to bring something new to the role, I hope that young women who dont see themselves on screen that often see that its possible. Ambika admitted she wouldnt have landed the role ten years ago due to her skin colour, saying: Im very different to Anne Hathaway, so I was never worried about that. Just the fact that Im not white and Im getting to play Emma. I dont think that would have happened ten years ago. That in itself is a way to modernise the story. Starring alongside Leo Woodall as Dexter, the well-known story is set over 20 years and follows the complex, will-they-wont-they relationship between the pair, taking place on St Swithins Day every year. Ambika worked closely with lead scriptwriter Nicole Taylor to find the best version of Emma that would work on the small screen. The actress gives a damn good script note, according to Nicole. Im a writer and I cant turn that side of my brain off ever. I got to know her so well, explained Ambika. Ambika explained she found it was a massive, massive undertaking given Emma was previously played by a white actress. Film insiders predict Ambika and Leo will become global stars off of the back of the much-anticipated series I just really, really love Emma and always wanted to do right by her. Ambika, the daughter of Indian immigrants, was then paired with Leo, who was still unknown at the time having not yet appeared on the Sky Atlantic series, The White Lotus. He was only the second actor that she read the script with and producers quickly noticed their perfect chemistry. And now film insiders predict that they will become global stars off of the back of the much-anticipated series. Ambika admitted that the pair immediately had a really natural rhythm a really good vibe. Despite playing an Essex lad in the critically-acclaimed HBO show, West London-born Leo, 27, said he is actually very middle-class and is a descendent of silent film star Maxine Elliott. I come from privilege, and privilege definitely plays a part in Dexters life, he said of the parallels between him and his character. He said the chemistry with Ambika was there straight away as they just clicked and it worked. Ambika admitted she wouldnt have landed the role ten years ago due to her skin colour, saying: Im very different to Anne Hathaway, so I was never worried about that. Just the fact that Im not white and Im getting to play Emma' Ambika made her name in the BBC drama This Is Going to Hurt playing student doctor Shruti Acharya Leo plays Dexter in the series, but was unknown at the time of casting as his role in the Sky Atlantic series The White Lotus (pictured) was yet to be broadcast After learning theyd both bagged the roles, they went for a drink as they knew that what we were about to take on was a big thing and we needed to lean on each other. The two then worked with intimacy coordinators for the love scenes as Leo explained: When Ambika and I started doing those scenes, wed already built up a trust and a friendship that made it more comfortable and a safer space'. The author of the original book David Nicholls, 57 says hes happy that the film has now found the right format to fit the story, with Netflixs big budget meaning they could film all over the world. The perfect form for the book adaptation is the TV series, particularly since the advent of streaming, he said. Now we have a form that fits the actual novel. You can now alter the length of the episodes, thats been brilliant because some of the days are more eventful than others. One episode a day and make it as long as it needs to be. He added: The economics of streaming mean that you can afford to go to Paris and Rome and Greece, as the book does. Nadia Sawalha was rushed to the hospital after noticing worrying symptoms - minutes before appearing live on Loose Women. The TV cook, 59, revealed her last appearance on the daytime programme left her 'panic stricken' as she discovered something unusual to with her eye. The panelist explained she was urged by her optician to head straight to the hospital amid a few frightening couple of hours - but claimed has finally a diagnosis. 'I did the morning meeting, and rang the optician and said I've got this, this, this and they said leave now and go straight to A&E,' she explained on Friday's show. 'It was really dramatic, I was really panic stricken actually because I thought I'd just go after the show. And then Gloria came in, because I was going to have to leave the show and there's never been three.' Nadia Sawalha was rushed to the hospital after she learned about some worrying symptoms - right before appearing live on Loose Women on Friday's episode The panelist, 59, explained she was urged by her optician to head straight to the hospital amid a few frightening couple of hours - but claimed has finally a diagnosis 'And then Gloria came on the phone, and she said she had an eye surgeon who is a good friend. Anyway, she put me on the phone with a top eye surgeon who asked me more questions. He said it was ok, you can do the show, but then you've got to come to A&E straight afterwards.' After that, the writer headed to A&E, and has now an answer to her health worries, and confirmed she is being well taken care of. 'The long and short of it is, I've got an ageing eye. They're both ageing, the jelly's coming off the back. I've got a microscopic haemorrhage. I know it's microscopic but I don't want a haemorrhage.' She went on adding: 'It is worrying. It'll be fine, I've had really good care. It's amazing, the eye stops seeing what it doesn't want to see and that will just disappear and the smearing will hopefully go.' Days before her health scare, Nadia made a political statement about IsraelHamas war as she arrived at the UK Gala Screening of All Of Us Strangers at BFI Southbank in London at the end of last month. The actress and television personality held her hands up on the red carpet with the words 'cease' and 'fire' written on them in black lettering. She had a red hairband between her fingers, with Nadia having recently been vocal about the armed conflict between Israel and Hamas-led Palestinian militant groups in the Gaza strip. Nadia commanded the attention of onlookers as she held her hands up for the entire time she posed on the red carpet, at one point raising her arms up in the air above her head. Nadia explained: 'The long and short of it is, I've got an ageing eye. They're both ageing, the jelly's coming off the back. I've got a microscopic haemorrhage. I know it's microscopic but I don't want a haemorrhage' She went on adding: 'It is worrying. It'll be fine, I've had really good care. It's amazing, the eye stops seeing what it doesn't want to see and that will just disappear and the smearing will hopefully go' Days before her health scare, Nadia made a political statement about IsraelHamas war as she arrived at the UK Gala Screening of All Of Us Strangers at BFI Southbank in London at the end of last month The actress and television personality held her hands up on the red carpet with the words 'cease' and 'fire' written on them in black lettering She was recently at the centre of a bitter row after being accused of using her social media account to circulate pro-Palestinian propaganda, while ignoring the suffering of Israelis murdered and kidnapped by Hamas terrorists. The Mail on Sunday revealed in November last year that ITV was bombarded with complaints from viewers angered by what they claimed was a 'one-sided' stance after the conflict began after Hamas terrorists committed atrocities in southern Israel on October 7. In Instagram posts, Nadia infuriated viewers of Loose Women, many of whom were Jewish, after she appeared to support pro-Palestinian campaigners who argue that the best way to secure the return of the hostages, who include several Brits, was for Israel to adhere to a ceasefire in Gaza, even though many military experts and politicians, including Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Leader of the Labour Party Sir Keir Starmer, argue this would only allow Hamas time to restock weaponry. An ITV insider confirmed the channel's switchboard had been 'bombarded' with viewers saying they were angered by Sawalha's stance on Gaza, and who 'wanted to know the best way of lodging complaints against her with ITV bosses'. 'We were quite surprised at the volume of complaints over the past week about Nadia. It's quite unusual to get this sort of reaction. 'But then again, Israel/Palestine has always been a very divisive issue.' People commenting online also asked why she has been 'silent on 7/10'. Nadia told MailOnline: 'I have talked about the awful tragedy of October 7th and the continuing hostage crisis for Israel. 'As a British-Arab I have also talked about the plight of the Palestinians, and I firmly believe, as do millions of other humanitarians, that a ceasefire is the most humane way forward for both the innocent hostages and the innocent civilians of Gaza and the West Bank.' Meanwhile, Nadia's cameraman husband Mark Adderley also waded into the row and defended his wife's stance suggesting the murder of 1400 men, women and children by Hamas, with over 240 innocents taken hostage in Gaza had been 'all the attention of sympathy in the world' but that the conversation had now 'moved on'. She had a red hairband between her fingers, with Nadia having recently been vocal about the armed conflict between Israel and Hamas-led Palestinian militant groups in the Gaza strip Nadia commanded the attention of onlookers as she held her hands up for the entire time she posed on the red carpet All Of Us Strangers - based the film on the 1987 Japanese psychological novel Strangers by Taichi Yamada - is directed by Andrew Haigh and was released in the UK on January 26 (pictured Paul Mescal and Andrew Scott) Nadia is the daughter of the Jordanian-born British actor Nadim Sawalha and his English wife Roberta Lane. She is the sister of television actress Julia Sawalha and has appeared on Lily Savage's Blankety Blank with her. All Of Us Strangers - based the film on the 1987 Japanese psychological novel Strangers by Taichi Yamada - is directed by Andrew Haigh and was released in the UK on January 26. The film stars Andrew as screenwriter drawn back to his childhood home who enters into a fledgling relationship with a mysterious neighbour (Paul Mescal). Dylan Sprouse shared details about his very quirky 2022 proposal to now-wife Barbara Palvin, which included a sea otter. The 31-year-old former child actor and 30-year-old model exchanged vows in Hungary last July. People shared a sneak peek at the upcoming February 12 episode of the Tamron Hall Show, in which Sprouse explained that he and Palvin both love sea otters and so he tried to incorporate them when he popped the question. 'Big Sur is an immensely beautiful place... and I knew I wanted to do it there,' he told the host in an video clip shared by the outlet, noting that one of the bluffs there is known to be one of the most populated sea otter zones in California. 'So, I was like, "Okay, we're gonna get down on the knee there's gonna be tons of sea otters all around," and as soon as we were walking in to the wildlife park, one of the rangers came up and said, "Hey, just to let you guys know, we haven't seen sea otters here in months,"' he added. Dylan Sprouse shared details about his 2022 proposal to now-wife Barbara Palvin, which included a sea otter The 31-year-old former child actor and 30-year-old model exchanged vows in Hungary last July Sprouse explained that he and Palvin both love sea otters and so he tried to incorporate them when he popped the question He added, 'I was like, all right, we're here anyway, and I'm already in a button-down on a hike.' After hiking two miles, Sprouse said he 'got down on one knee over a beautiful vista, did the thing, she said yes, thankfully, and then immediately afterwards, we see a little head bob out of the water.' The Big Daddy actor recalled, 'And he rolls on his back, and he looks up at us.' Hall, dressed in a snazzy red blazer, chimed in, 'The sea otter was there to anoint the moment.' 'He was. It was fated because he came up as soon as she said yes,' Dylan recounted, before noting that it was the first time one of the animals had been seen in the area 'in months.' The couple said 'I do' near the Hungarian capital of Budapest in July, one month after confirming their engagement. Last March, Palvin flashed a diamond engagement ring at the Mammoth Film Festival but did not confirm their plans to marry. Barbara and Dylan dated for six years, after the actor contacted her via a social media direct message in 2017. People shared a sneak peek at the upcoming February 12 episode of the Tamron Hall Show , in which Sprouse explained that he and Palvin both love sea otters and so he incorporated one when he popped the question; pictured in April 2023 Barbara and Dylan dated for six years, after the actor contacted her via a social media direct message in 2017 Palvin raved about her beau while speaking to Vogue Australia in 2019 as she said, 'I feel like I found the perfect guy.' 'He's very kind and gentleThat's what I do on my day off: I spend it with the people I love and I'm very much in love right now.' In March 2023 a source told ET that the Hungarian beauty was engaged and had 'been showing off her ring to people.' The couple had been engaged since September 2022, and Dylan later shared with V Magazine: 'We didn't necessarily feel the need to be fully transparent with the public about that aspect of our engagement.' Nicole Scherzinger set pulses racing as she showcased her incredible figure in a series of sizzling snaps she shared on Friday. The former Pussycat Dolls star is currently soaking up the sun in the Maldives with her fiance Thom Evans. The hitmaker, 45, slipped into a white and black striped bikini that highlighted her toned midriff as she went for a dip in the pool. Striking a playful pose, Nicole let her raven locks fall loose down her shoulders as she worked on her tan. Alongside the post, she wrote: 'Norma in the sun! Sun-kissed and salty hair'. Nicole Scherzinger set pulses racing as she showcased her incredible figure in a series of sizzling snaps she shared on Friday The hitmaker, 45, slipped into a white and black striped bikini that highlighted her toned midriff as she went for a dip in the pool Nicole and her ex rugby player partner Tom, 38, who popped the question last June, are enjoying a luxury stay at Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives which starts a 1,800 a night. Nicole and Thom first met when he starred on Celebrity X Factor in 2019, with Thom claiming he had 'hit the jackpot' with Nicole. The holiday comes after the news that Nicole's critically-acclaimed West End show Sunset Boulevard is heading to Broadway. The actress will be making her Broadway debut this year when the musical opens in New York City. Broadway 2024, the Sunset Boulevard Instagram account announced earlier this month. 'Nicole Scherzinger, Tom Francis, Grace Hodgett-Young and David Thaxton star in Andrew Lloyd Webbers #SunsetBlvd, reimagined by visionary director Jamie Lloyd. Be the first to get tickets. Sign up now at sunsetblvdbroadway.com.' While no specific opening date was provided, fans will be able to receive future information by signing up on the website. Citing sources, The New York Post has reported that the musical will open at the St. James Theater in November. Nicole stars as silent movie star Norma Desmond in the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical, which is based on the film by Billy Wilder. Striking a playful pose, Nicole let her raven locks fall loose down her shoulders as she worked on her tan The former Pussycat Dolls star is currently soaking up the sun in the Maldives with her fiance Thom Evans In November, Nicole was awarded Best Musical Performance at the Evening Standard Theatre Awards for her role in Sunset Boulevard. The former Pussycat Doll couldn't control her emotions as she took to the stage at London's swanky Claridge's Hotel to accept the honour for her showstopping turn. She had been up against A Strange Loop's Kyle Ramar Freeman, Crazy For You's Charlie Stemp and Guys & Dolls' Marisha Wallace for the award. Composer Andrew Lloyd Webber was not able to attend the awards in person but said that his leading lady had 'given us a performance for the ages.' Nicole then welled up as she revealed that her role as Norma Desmond in the atmospheric musical had helped her 'be accepted by Londons theatre community.' Nicole's new role marked her return to the stage, eight years after she was nominated for an Olivier Award for her portrayal of Grizabella in Cats. Her musical comeback was heralded a success by Daily Mail reviewer Luke Jones who gave her a five star review. Carol McGiffin has celebrated her sixth wedding anniversary with her toyboy husband Mark Cassidy with a romantic break in Bangkok. The former Loose Women star, 63, shared an array of Instagram snaps of her and Mark, 42, sipping on bubbles in the Ari District to celebrate their special day. As they gushed over their stunning love affair, Carol revealed that they fly out to the exotic holiday destination every year to celebrate their milestone - with the exception of the two years during the Covid pandemic. The couple beamed from cheek to cheek as they shared intimate snaps around the coast enjoying decadent food and sparkly drinks. It looked to be quite the fancy affair as they were pictured enjoying a glass of red wine on the back of a private boat. Loose Women's Carol McGiffin, 63, cosied up to her toyboy husband, Mark Cassidy, 43, in Bangkok to celebrate their sixth-year anniversary on Thursday The former Loose Women star, 63, shared an array of holiday pictures of her and March, 42, sipping on bubbles in the Ari District to celebrate their special day Carol's loved-up post was captioned: 'Six years ago yesterday, Mark and I got married at the Ari District Office in Bangkok. 'Every year since then we have come here to celebrate it except during the covid b******t year 2021 and 2022 when we weren't allowed to because of vax restrictions. 'Normally we'd go for an all-you-can-eat-and-drink buffet lunch but it was on a Thursday so we went back to the place where I celebrated my 50th birthday (last pic) in 2010, the Chrakabongse Villas on the banks of the Chao Prayer River with spectacular views to the world-famous Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn) which is right opposite. 'It's such a special place for so many reasons and if you are ever in Bangkok try and go because the location, views and food are unbeatable.' Carol first met her husband back in 2008 when she was 48 and he was just 26 - before tying the knot in a secret Bangkok ceremony in 2008. She was previously married to radio and TV presenter Chris Evans. The couple exchanged vows in 1991 before separating three-years later, with their divorce finalised in 1998. It comes just weeks after Carol launched a blistering attack at her former show Loose Women. MailOnline revealed in May that she was forced to quit after a bizarre radio rant, claiming the Covid pandemic was a World Health Organisation plot to take over every government. It looked to be quite the fancy affair as they were pictured enjoying a glass of red wine on the back of a private boat The couple beamed from cheek to cheek as they shared intimate snaps around the coast enjoying decadent food and sparkly drinnk In December, Carol, who appeared on and off the show since its launch in 2000, blasted the programme as being 'very woke' and 'doesn't miss it at all'. Speaking about her dramatic exit, Carol told Women's Own magazine: 'No, I don't miss Loose Women at all. My pronouns are P and Off. It's just very woke and I can't deal with the wokeness. 'That's not why I am not there. I am not there because of other stuff.' She added she misses her co-stars but 'doesn't miss being on TV'. MailOnline contacted ITV for comment at the time. Carol announced in May she had left the lunchtime show, protesting ITV insisted she sign a contract with clauses that were 'totally unjust and unworkable'. The Mail on Sunday then disclosed a free speech row was at the centre of her departure, after a backlash over her tirade in an interview on TNT talk radio. In it, the original panelist also accused reputable mainstream news organisations of conspiring to brainwash the public, causing a mass mental health breakdown, after being 'bought off by the Government'. Carol explained that usually they would go for a buffet to celebrate but the milestone but this year they opted to visit the place they went to for her her 50th birthday in 2010 (pictured) Carol first met her toy boy husband back in 2008 when she was 48 and he was just 26 - before tying the knot in a secret Bangkok ceremony in 2008 It comes just weeks after Carol launched a blistering attack at her former show Loose Women. MailOnline revealed in May that she was forced to quit after a bizarre radio rant, claiming the Covid pandemic was a World Health Organisation plot to take over every government Carol added she thought the then health secretary Matt Hancock tried to bring in Covid patients from France to fill 'empty hospital beds' in Britain at the height of the pandemic. ITV chiefs saw a backlash against her diatribe on social media, while others phoned the network to demand that she be sacked. Carol, who was married to DJ Chris Evans from 1991 to 1998, last appeared on Loose Women on March 2, a week before her TNT Radio interview for The Freeman Report, with James Freeman. She had been a Loose Women regular from 2000 to 2013 and then again from 2018. But in her radio interview she slated the show, one of ITV's most popular daytime programmes, hinting she had been censored by its bosses. She said: 'I always look back at when I started working in television and radio as the good old days because they were much less policed, I suppose. Much less restricted and it was a freer place to be. 'When I look back at the old Loose Womens I used to do from 2000 all the until I left in 2013, they're completely different. There is so much offence. People take so much offence at so much and they never used to.' Carol said she had been forced to leave the show following a row over her contract that had been going on since January. She said: 'The problem was ITV were insisting, for the first time since I went back in 2018, that if I wanted to carry on doing the show, I would have to sign a contract that was totally unjust and unworkable for me, so I had to say, "No thanks". No one in their right mind would have signed that contract.' An ITV spokesman said at the time: 'ITV will not comment on speculation around individual contracts. 'We understand Carol has decided to leave Loose Women and we wish her well.' Officials at the Fremont Public Schools district and those on the Fremont Middle School campus are still in recovery mode following a large student brawl on Monday morning, Feb. 5, that occurred inside the gymnasium of the middle school off South Johnson Road. On Tuesday night, an Omaha TV station broadcast cell phone video of the large fight, involving what appeared to be possibly 10 to 12 different students battling each other in several different scrums. On Wednesday, FPS Superintendent Mark Shepard provided a lengthy statement about the incident to the Tribune. Shepard stated in his email that all students involved have been disciplined, and enhanced security measures have been put in place with cooperation from the Fremont Police Department. Eight middle school students were expelled for the remainder of the 2023-2024 school year and will not be allowed back on campus, Shepard said. School officials do not reveal the identities of students who are disciplined. According to a message sent to parents from Fremont Middle School Principal Todd Niehaus, the students involved had reportedly been involved in a dispute of some manner over the weekend of Feb. 3-4, which school and police officials believe to be the cause of Mondays issue. The fight occurred before school had started for the day. The incident led to calls to the Dodge County 911 emergency dispatch center and a large response from the Fremont Police Department. Shepard said there were no arrests to his knowledge, and no school staff or teachers were injured. Fremont police officials did not respond to requests made Wednesday for details on their response to the incident. Shepard provided the Tribune with several message sent by Niehaus to parents of middle school students via the Remind app, including the first notification sent at 2:10 p.m. on Monday. This morning, prior to the start of school, several students were engaged in a fight in the gym. Apparently, the fight is a carryover from the weekend between two groups of students, Niehaus wrote. FMS administration spent the morning working with the students involved, their parents and the Fremont Police Department. Students were sent home with their parents and were assigned appropriate consequences. False rumors of more violence squashed by district officials Social media began to discuss the event at the middle school and several rumors began to surface, Shepard said Wednesday. He said false rumors spread online included unverified claims that the students involved bringing knives and guns to school tomorrow to settle the issue. A parent in the school district, who does not have a student at the middle school, contacted me via email with information related to the rumor and the name of the individual who had shared it with their student, Shepard said. When contacting the Fremont Police, the shift sergeant shared that they had received a call from the same parent and had already spoken to them and were in the process of following up with the student who had shared the information, he added. After the police discussed the rumor with the student and their parent, it was determined by the police that the student was reacting to the social media posts online. Due to the rumors being spread on social media, as well as what Shepard called misinformation, the superintendent personally sent a message to middle school parents Monday night, stressing the rumors were false and that additional security measures were being taken by the district, police department and school. Fremont Public Schools has a zero tolerance for this type of behavior. Students involved will not be in school tomorrow and face consequences to include suspension and up to expulsion administered by the school, and potential criminal charges from law enforcement, Shepard wrote. Shepard also said that on Tuesday, the district implemented an increased police and administrative presence at Fremont Middle School and additional support at the districts three other secondary facilities. Officials offer assurances of safety Niehaus sent parents another message on Tuesday, stating, Our school district takes any and all reports of threats seriously, as does our local law enforcement. We know there are students that feel uneasy about the fight in the gym yesterday morning. The students directly involved in the fight will not return to Fremont Middle School this year, Niehaus wrote in his message. At no time should a student in our building feel threatened or unsafe in any way. Our counselors and social worker are available to work with students if they are feeling uncomfortable and need support. District personnel are available to work with students should we need additional resources. In addition to the enhanced police and security presence, Shepard said other safety measures have been immediately implemented at the middle school and across the district. He also stressed that the fight was not the result of any incidents inside the school or at the middle school grounds. My understanding is that they are two groups of students that are not getting along. Internally, the Fremont Middle School administration has adjusted the areas where students are assigned and have limited the movement of students once inside the school building prior to the school day starting, Shepard said. They have also talked with the students and reinforced appropriate behaviors while in school. Shepard also said a separate fight on Tuesday, Feb. 6, at Fremont High School was between two students, and unrelated to anything at the middle school. Consequences were administered through the student code of conduct. We appreciate the support from the parents, staff, community and law enforcement. As shared with the parents: Safety is our number one priority and we will continue to take measures to keep our schools safe, he said. Our message remains the same If you see something, say something. If you know something, tell someone. We are thankful that we live in a community where individuals feel comfortable reaching out with information. We take every report of a threat very seriously. Bob Saget's widow Kelly Rizzo and her new boyfriend Breckin Meyer were spotted holding hands on a stroll in Los Angeles, California on Friday afternoon. Less than a week after debuting their new romance, two years after the tragic death of her spouse, who died in his sleep after accidentally hitting his head in a Florida hotel room, the pair appeared comfortable engaging in some light PDA. For their laid-back outing, the actress, 44, wore a brown leather jacket, white tank top and light-wash ripped jeans. She completed her casual ensemble with a black Prada purse with a gold chain and sneakers. Bob Saget's widow Kelly Rizzo and her new boyfriend Breckin Meyer were spotted holding hands on a stroll in Los Angeles, California on Friday afternoon Less than a week after debuting their new romance, two years after the tragic death of her spouse, who died in his sleep after accidentally hitting his head in a Florida hotel room, the pair appeared comfortable engaging in some light PDA For their laid-back outing, the actress, 44, wore a brown leather jacket, white tank top and light-wash ripped jeans Rizzo, known for Unfiltered with Kelly Rizzo (2018), Extra (1994) and FabLife (2015), gazed adoringly at her man on their way from the parking lot to lunch. Meyer, 49, bundled up in a denim jacket over a grey z-up hoodie and graphic t-shirt. It comes just three days after the duo made their debut as a couple at a Grammys party on Sunday. The lovebirds arrived at the Jam For Janie GRAMMY Awards Viewing Party held at Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles. It was clear they are very much in love as they arrived hand-in-hand. Breckin is best known for his roles in Clueless, The Craft and Road Trip and was previously married to Deborah Kaplan, with whom he has two daughters. And Kelly - who married Bob in 2018 - was more than happy to talk about dating again and revealed she had the blessing of her late husbands daughters. 'It took a while,' she told E! News about dating again, 'to the point where Im like, "OK, I think hed be happy with it".' She completed her casual ensemble with a black Prada purse with a gold chain and sneakers Meyer, 49, bundled up in a denim jacket over a grey z-up hoodie and graphic t-shirt Rizzo gazed adoringly at her man on their way from the parking lot to lunch Breckin is best known for his roles in Clueless, The Craft and Road Trip He was previously married to Deborah Kaplan, with whom he has two daughters Kelly - who married Bob in 2018 - recently revealed she had the blessing of her late husbands daughters to start dating again And talking about having the support of Aubrey, Lara and Jennifer Saget, she said: 'Its wonderful, it just meant so much to have their blessing. 'Theyre just angels. And to have them support is so meaningful.' In December, Kelly said that having the girls support and blessing means the world to her. She told Fox News: 'Id love to think that Bob would want me to be happy too, but to hear it from them is just a totally different level. And it meant the world just to hear, Hey, we trust you. We love you.' Bob died in his sleep aged 65 on January 2022 at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, after accidentally sustaining blunt head trauma. He became a star playing opposite John on Full House, the smash hit sitcom that ran for eight seasons on NBC from 1987 to 1995. Rizzo confirmed her new relationship with Meyer at the Jam For Janie GRAMMY Awards Viewing Party held at Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles on Sunday Kelly has said she felt 'guilty' for a 'long period of time' whenever she thought about moving on from Bob - the couple were married from 2018 until his death in 2022 (pictured with her late husband) Bob was found dead in his hotel room bed in Orlando around 4pm EST on January 9, 2022 after performing a stand-up gig in Jacksonville the previous night, sources close to the investigation informed TMZ. The police saw no sign of drugs or foul play and it was initially suspected that he succumbed to either a stroke or a heart attack. However, the following month, his family announced that medical examiners had ruled head trauma to be the cause of death. 'They have concluded that he accidentally hit the back of his head on something, thought nothing of it and went to sleep,' said the family's statement. Florida medical examiner Joshua Stephany, MD confirmed to People magazine that Bob's death was 'the result of blunt head trauma.' Blunt head trauma can cause death via brain bleed, bruising to the brain or asphyxiation while unconscious. Channing Tatum will star in a new true crime feature called Roofman. The Magic Mike star, 45, who is engaged to Zoe Kravitz, will star as 'eccentric and charming' serial robber Jeffrey Manchester who broke into more than 60 McDonald's in the late 1990s and early 2000s by drilling through the roof and dropping in Deadline reports the movie will be directed by Derek Cianfrance, who also wrote the screenplay. The synopsis for the thriller reads 'Roofman will tell the remarkable story of Jeffrey Manchester, an eccentric and charming serial robber who broke into more than 60 McDonalds overnight via their roofs, then emptied the cash register in the morning after herding staff into freezers.' 'The former U.S. Army Reserve officer became known as the Rooftop Robber or Roofman, and was known for his gentle demeanor and for rarely resorting to violence.' Channing Tatum will star in a new true crime feature called Roofman The Magic Mike star, 45, who is engaged to Zoe Kravitz, will star as 'eccentric and charming' serial robber Jeffrey Manchester who broke into more than 60 McDonald's in the late 1990s and early 2000s by drilling through the roof and dropping i According to Deadline, the movie will be directed by Derek Cianfrance, who also wrote the screenplay Manchester was convicted and imprisoned in 2000 before escaping and 'holing up for months in a Toys 'R' Us and Circuit City store in North Carolina.' It was reported that Manchester survived by eating baby food and that he rode bikes for exercise in the toy store. Fingerprints left on a Catch Me If You Can DVD at Circuit City led to his recapture in 2005 and he was found guilty of numerous charges and sentenced him to upwards of 40 years in prison. The movie will center around the criminal's time on the run, which lasted months. The news comes after late last month Tatum gave his nearly 17 million Instagram followers a behind-the-scenes look at his other upcoming movie, Blink Twice. In a photo, Tatum's fiancee Zoe, who is making her directorial debut with the project, interacted with Naomi Ackie and Alia Shawkat, who will both appear in the movie. The actor also shared a video of the 35-year-old actress-turned-director working with her crew on the set. Engaging his audience, Channing wrote in the caption: 'MISS DIRECTOR LADY HERSELF IN ACTION!! ABSOLUTELY CRUSHING IT. CANT WAIT FOR YALL TO SEE.' Channing's news comes after late last month he gave his nearly 17 million Instagram followers a behind-the-scenes look at his other upcoming movie, Blink Twice The actor shared a video of fiancee Zoe Kravitz working with the crew on the set of their upcoming film Kravitz, who co-wrote the screenplay with E.T. Feigenbaum, began working on the story in 2017. She is also one of the film's producers. Although the project was initially entitled P***y Island, the movie's name was later changed to Blink Twice. It centers on a cocktail waitress who meets a tech magnate and takes a trip to his private island, later finding herself in a dangerous situation. Strictly Come Dancing' star Giovanni Pernice is reportedly dating stunning British model Molly Brown. The dancer, 34, is believed to have been on numerous dates with the 24-year-old but is 'keeping things quiet' amid his ongoing feud with Amanda Abbington. A source told The Mirror: 'Giovanni and Molly met a few weeks ago, and though it is very early days, things seem to be going well between them'. 'He has been keeping things quiet because he didn't want too much pressure on as they're getting to know each other'. Adding: 'But the signs so far seem to be positive and he has let a few of his friends in on the secret. It's very much a case of watch this space.' Strictly Come Dancing ' star Giovanni Pernice, 34, is reportedly dating stunning British model Molly Brown, 24 The dancer is believed to have been on numerous dates with the stunner but is 'keeping things quiet' amid his ongoing feud with Amanda Abbington (Molly pictured) While little is known about the model she regularly shares stunning snaps of her lavish lifestyle and exotic holidays to social media. MailOnline have contacted Giovanni and Molly's representatives for comment. The Italian dancer has previously dated a whole host of gorgeous stars including Love Island's Maura Higgins, TOWIE's Jess Wright and his former Strictly parter Georgia May Foote. He was most recently linked to Strictly co-star Jowita Przystal, before reportedly splitting in March 2023 after three months due to their 'hectic work schedules'. It comes after Giovanni has addressed criticism about his teaching techniques after coming under fire after his 2023 partner Amanda claimed that the show left her with PTSD. During an appearance on The One Show last month he was asked about training of his celebrity partners, to which he said: 'I'm definitely a perfectionist.' 'Like everybody else, I like to win. But for me it's more about bringing the best out of partners, especially if I see that there is talent there. I want to do my job properly.' His alleged feuds with 2016 partner Laura Whitmore and 2020's Ranvir Singh have also resurfaced, while 2021's Rose Ayling-Ellis and 2017's Debbie McGee have spoken out in his defence. A source said:'Giovanni and Molly met a few weeks ago, and though it is very early days, things seem to be going well between them'. Adding: 'He has been keeping things quiet because he didn't want too much pressure on as they're getting to know each other' Giovanni has dated a whole host of gorgeous stars including Love Island's Maura Higgins (pictured), TOWIE's Jess Wright and his former Strictly parter Georgia May Foote He was most recently linked to Strictly co-star Jowita Przystal , before reportedly splitting in March 2023 after three months due to their 'hectic work schedules' (pictured together in 2023) Giovanni has previously lifted the lid on his intense rehearsal schedule. Speaking to Spencer Matthews on his Big Fish podcast last May, Giovanni gave an insight into his gruelling training regime as he revealed his key to success as a dancer was: 'Practice, pretty much 20 hours a day. He continued: 'The studio is open 24 hours. Well, 18 hours a day, sleep and go back to the studio and practice. Lots of lessons.' Giovanni also credited his can-do attitude and refusing to accept defeat with his success. Explaining how he feels about losing, the star explained: 'I don't want to sound cliche, but when you lose, when something doesn't go the way you want it to go, I am one of those people who gets back up, just like Rocky Balboa, one of my idols, you go down but then you straight away stand up. 'There is no point for me when you lose to cry about those things, you are the person who chooses about your future. Nobody else can do it for you, so you have to find a way to make it better.' It comes after Giovanni has addressed criticism about his teaching techniques after coming under fire after his 2023 partner Amanda claimed that the show left her with PTSD Amanda left Strictly during week five in October and failed to return for the final, where eliminated celebrities took part in a group dance Asked whether he ever feels emotionally vulnerable, he responded: 'I stay away from that, the reason why, I think it's a waste of time. 'I think vulnerability is good, it's beautiful but it just doesn't really make sense in my head, because there is always a solution to do better. 'I have got millions of problems, but I always find a way to make things better, I am not one of these people who cry. So vulnerable is not a word I can use to describe myself.'. It comes after Amanda revealed she was 'sent death threats' by Strictly Come Dancing fans in a new interview. The star was paired with Giovanni but quit the BBC One programme mid-series last year citing 'personal issues'. It was then revealed she had been diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder following her stint on the show. Speaking to The Sun on Sunday, Amanda gave her thanks to both her fans and fellow Strictly stars for their support. She explained: 'I was diagnosed with mild PTSD after Strictly for several reasons and I told a few people about that, in the utmost confidence, among other things that were happening in my life at the time both professionally and personally.' Amanda continued: 'I'm very sorry that people felt the need to send me death threats, threaten my children and bring up my past, healthy relationship with an ex-partner as an indicator of my current mental health. I wish those people well.' She has two children with her actor ex Martin Freeman, a daughter Grace, 15, and son Joe, 17. Recently it was claimed the show left her with PTSD and demanded footage of rehearsals to highlight the Italian's 'tense' and 'full-on' training methods, which allegedly caused her much grief. Amanda left Strictly during week five in October and failed to return for the final, where eliminated celebrities took part in a group dance. Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie submitted their financial documents in what appears to be one step closer to finalizing their divorce that has been ongoing for almost eight years. Brad, 60, and Angelina, 48, reportedly disclosed their finances to the other party, according to TMZ, which signals the end of a divorce settlement. The former power couple have been battling it out since Angelina first filed for divorce in September 2016. DailyMail.com has reached out to Brad and Angelina's representatives for comment. Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie submitted their financial documents in what appears to be one step closer to finalizing their divorce that has been ongoing for almost eight years; seen in happier times - November 2015 The movie stars, who met in 2004 while filming Mr. And Mrs. Smith, share six children together: sons Maddox, 22, Pax, 20, and Knox, 15, and daughters Zahara, 19, Shiloh, 17, and Vivienne, 15. Jolie adopted Maddox in 2002, then Zahara in 2005, a year after she'd met Pitt while the pair filmed Mr and Mrs Smith. He was married to Jennifer Aniston at the time. They then adopted Pax together in 2007, and had biological kids Shiloh, Knox and Vivienne afterwards. Pitt adopted all of the kids before they got married in 2014. They married in August 2014 after 10 years together but Angelina filed for divorce in September 2016. At the time, Angelina chose to file 'for the health of the family,' according to the Associated Press, and asked for physical custody of the children. Jolie filed for sole custody after filing for divorce following an incident on the couple's private plane during which she said he allegedly became violent and abusive, which he has vehemently denied and was cleared of. By the end of September 2016, she was granted the full physical custody according to a judge, with Brad having visitation rights. Two months later, Brad filed his response, requesting joint and physical custody of the children. By December 2016, Brad filed - but was later denied - a request to seal the custody related documents. Brad, 60, and Angelina, 48, reportedly disclosed their finances to the other party, according to TMZ , which signals the end of a divorce settlement; Brad and Angelina pictured snuggling up January 7, 2008 at the 13th Annual Critics' Choice Awards in Santa Monica The former power couple have been battling it out since Angelina filed for divorce in September 2016 In January 2017, they released a joint statement revealing that they signed an agreement to keep their court documents confidential. The judge ordered Angelina to help repair Brad's relationship with their children and he was given more time with them. However, in August 2018, Angelina accused Brad of not paying any 'meaningful child support, with Brad's lawyers filing a response one day later, claiming he's paid her $9 million since their split. A judge granted them both legal single status on April 12, 2019, while the couple continued to finalize their divorce. Brad was granted joint custody by private Judge John Ouderkirk in May 2021 but Angelina challenged it. A California appeals court disqualified the judge in July 2021, agreeing with Jolie in that the judge, Judge John Ouderkirk, did not sufficiently disclose business relationships with Pitt's attorneys. Lawyers for the star filed a petition for review with the California Supreme Court after the disqualification of Judge John Ouderkirk effectively voided the joint custody ruling, according to People. In Pitt's petition, lawyers claim that elimination of Ouderkirk 'effectively upended the constitutionally authorized temporary judging system in California' and subsequently 'throws open the door to disqualification challenges at any point during a case, even if the party raising the motion has long been on notice about the alleged grounds for disqualification.' In addition, lawyers for the actor allege that Jolie was 'made aware of Judge Ouderkirk's significant professional history with Pitt's counsel from the very start,' yet did not seek disqualification until years later. The joint custody ruling was then vacated after his removal. In February 2022, Brad sued Angelina for selling their Chateau Miraval Winery, their French winery and the place they tied the knot. They had 50/50 ownership, and Angelina sold her portion to Russian oligarch Yuri Shefler. The holding company in control of her Miraval share is called Nouvel. The movie stars, who met in 2004 while filming Mr. And Mrs. Smith, share six children together: sons Maddox, 22, Pax, 20, and Knox, 15, and daughters Zahara, 19, Shiloh, 17, and Vivienne, 15; seen November 8, 2011 in Tokyo He requested the sale to be voided and sought monetary damages and legal fees however the sale went through on October 5, 2021. In June 2023, Brad filed an amended complaint regarding her sale of her share of the winery. His lawsuit for the sale of her portion of the winery is still ongoing. Brad is currently romantically involved with Ines de Ramon, the ex-wife of actor Paul Wesley. Christine McGuinness has shared a heartfelt video revealing that her father has overcome his heroin addiction after decades of struggling. The model, 35, beamed with pride on Friday as she shared a montage of Johnny's recovering, after battling with addiction for 40 years. After decades of heartache, Christine opened up with her fans and admitted that she never thought she would say the words that her father is free from drugs. Heroin is a Class A drug - meaning it is illegal to possess or sell the substance. Those found in possession of the life-destroying drug can be jailed for up to seven years and can also be fined an unlimited fee. While supplying the drug can lead to life behind bars. The drug is highly addictive and can be injected, smoked or snorted and carries the risk of death due to overdose. Christine McGuiness has shared a heartfelt video after she revealed that her father has overcome his heroin addiction after decades of struggling The model she shared a montage with her 722,000 followers documenting Johnny's recovering from his addiction Christine shared insight into her father's addiction struggles while praising him for overcoming his demons Her sincere clip showed the two at different stages of his recovery as she has watched him struggle with the addiction since she was a child, which has had a strain on their relationship. It showed times of the two of them going through harder times when she was younger, gave an insight on his recovery and when he finally became clean. Alongside the honest post, she captioned: 'For all the times Ive said what I thought was our last 'goodbye' Today was the best Hello... My dad is the happiest and healthiest I've ever seen him, my dad is off heroin. I never thought I'd say those words. 'If you love someone in recovery, never lose hope, its never too late. My dad is 62, he's been an addict for 4 decades and now he's a big strong 16st man! Dad, I am so proud of you.' Her fellow celebrity friends flooded the blonde-beauty's post with supportive messages. Former Geordie Shore star Vicky Pattison wrote: 'Love you and your dad so much' Another wrote: 'I am so glad he is in recovery. Sending you so much love, a lot of heartache when a loved one is an addict.' While hundreds of other fans congratulated Christine on the positive news. After decades of heartache, Christine opened up with her fans and admitted that she never thought she would say the words that her father is free from drugs Her sincere clip showed the two at different stages of his recovery as she has watched him struggle with the addiction since she was a child, which has had a strain on their relationship Christine first publicly spoke on her father's addiction in November, 2021 when she admitted that he would inject himself in front of her when she was a teenager. She took the opportunity to open up about those struggles first in her book Christine McGuinness: A Beautiful Nightmare. Johnny's troubles started when she was young, with the model writing that her mother Joanne left him when Christine crawled across one of his used needles when she was a one-year-old baby. In an extrct, the media personality told how her dad is one of the longest living heroin addicts in the UK and said he has never met her children. She wrote: 'I saw my dad inject heroin. As a teenager, I struggled with his addiction. I blamed myself. When I became a mum, I kept thinking about how he chose drugs over his own kids. 'But as I've gotten older, I've realised it wasn't as simple a choice for him. Addiction is an illness.' It showed times of the two of them going through harder times when she was younger, gave an insight on his recovery and when he finally became clean Christine first publicly spoke on her father's addiction in November, 2021 when she admitted that he would inject himself in front of her when she was a teenager Joanne moved away from Blackpool to Merseyside with Christine and sister Billie-Jo, and despite Johnny's addiction, Christine said she had a good relationship with her father and loves him dearly. However, the star admitted he has never met her husband Paddy or their children Penelope, Leo, both eight, and Felicity, five, as she doesn't feel comfortable with the thought of them being introduced to an addict. Christine did offer her father the chance to meet Paddy when she asked him to walk her down the aisle at their wedding in 2011. He said yes but then backed out on the day as she was getting into her bridal gown and said he couldn't make it, so Christine walked down the aisle by herself. Christine said her grandparents have tried to help him and put him into rehab but she doesn't think there's any turning back at this point. The star also revealed doctors previously thought they'd have to amputate his leg due to the damage done by using dirty needles over the years. Johnny's troubles started when she was young, with the model writing that her mother Joanne left him when Christine crawled across one of his used needles when she was a baby But after decades of working with him and separating him from her children, husband and personal life, the star was delighted to reveal he is now clean and is strong '16st man' She has also been contacted by hospitals on several occasions to warn her that Johnny may die. Although Christine said she still loves her father, she doesn't think she will ever be able to respect him. His absence during important moments in her life made Christine even closer with her mother Joanne. She wrote: 'My mum longed for that relationship to work. It broke her heart. I'm so grateful she did leave him and that she got [us] away.' While Christine has a fractured relationship with her father, she has remained close to her mother. Last year, Joanne was diagnosed with breast cancer, but this summer, Christine assured fans her mother is 'doing incredibly well' having completed her breast cancer treatment. Taking to Instagram and posting a snap of her cuddling her beloved parent, she penned the following note for her followers: 'Ma. Always remember you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, smarter than you think and loved more than you know. 'So many of you ask about my mum, she is doing amazingly well, Im so proud of her. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy is all done now its time for her to enjoy life!' FRANK is a support service that offers information about drugs, plus advice for people who use drugs. Call the FRANK helpline on 0300 123 66 00. Veruca Salt has been hit by fresh upset as her beloved cat has gone missing just days after her newborn baby Cash's devastating death. The Australian influencer, 25, has been grieving after announcing the heartbreaking news that her six-week-old baby Cash had 'died in his sleep' on Monday morning. Just days later, Veruca - whose real name is Kimberley Summer Hartley - has been hit by further devastation, revealing her beloved cat has gone missing. Veruca took to her Instagram Stories on Saturday to share the news with her followers, explaining that her cat hasn't returned home since Monday. She posted an older picture of the ginger and white cat with her late baby boy Cash and asked fans to message her if they saw her pet around Southport, Queensland. Veruca Salt has been hit by fresh upset as her beloved cat has gone missing just days after her newborn baby Cash's devastating death She wrote: 'If anyone in Southport sees this cat can you please message me, he's been gone since Monday I think he's really scared because of all the people that were at my house. 'He's been seen around my area but he's too scared to come up to anyone :( he is a very friendly, cuddly cat. You can just pick him up like a baby usually but he is scared so if you see him just be gentle and very cautious with him.' It comes after Veruca revealed in a heartbreaking Instagram post on Tuesday that her newborn son Cash had suddenly 'died in his sleep' the previous morning. 'It is with a heavy heart that I'm writing this. My baby died in his sleep on Monday morning,' she wrote. 'I don't know what happened, he is having an autopsy this week but it is unlikely that I'll ever have an answer. Veruca took to Instagram on Saturday to share the news with her followers, explaining that her cat hasn't returned home since Monday as she shared an older snap of her pet with baby Cash 'I'm just saying this because people are still commenting on my TikToks saying how happy I look with him and 'just wait for the toddler stage' and stuff, and I really can't take it anymore. I'm really sorry.' Queensland Police said initial inquiries indicate the death was not suspicious. 'At the moment, it's still under investigation and we're awaiting autopsy results,' Gold Coast Superintendent Craig Hanlon said. 'It's obviously a tragic situation and our hearts go out to the mother and the family.' Police confirmed they were called to a unit in Southport around 6.13am on Monday. Since the tragic news, Veruca's social media posts have been flooded with messages of support from thoughtful fans. Her best friend Michael Finch also took to Instagram on Thursday to share a heartfelt tribute to Veruca and Cash following the devastating news. The Australian influencer, 25, has been grieving after announcing the heartbreaking news that her six-week-old baby Cash had 'died in his sleep' on Monday morning Veruca, whose real name is Kimberley Summer Hartley, shared the sad news on Instagram in a heartbreaking post Alongside a black and white photo of him cradling the newborn, the Gold Coast food blogger wrote: 'Uncle Michael loves you.' Amid the outpouring of support, some keyboard warriors have also cruelly taken aim at the grieving mother as she tries to grapple with the devastating loss. She was forced to hit back at one TikTok user who questioned how she was able to post videos to the social media platform in the wake of her newborn's death. 'No hate but I don't know how people can make TikToks just after their kids have died. Like setting up the camera, voiceovers, editing,' the person wrote. 'I would be in bed for weeks, an absolute mess. RIP.' Hitting back on Wednesday night, Veruca replied: 'Your baby is not dead, mine is. 'I was literally talking about this with my friends, like it won't take long to do something for people to say "that's not how I would act" from people who are literally imagining how it would be,' she said. 'You have no idea because your baby is not dead. Mine is, and I found him like that and it's not happening to you. Her best friend Michael Finch also took to Instagram on Thursday to share a heartfelt tribute to Veruca and Cash following the devastating news 'And if it was happening to you, you would know that bed is the last place you want to be, because God forbid you f***ing fall asleep. 'Every time you wake up you're going to forget, and you're going to go get your baby and he's not going to be there. 'And you're going to be in somebody else's house, in somebody else's bed because nobody's going to leave you alone. 'And you're not going to want to go home to your bed. You're not going to want to go home at all because your baby is all over the house. 'You have no idea the things that are going on in my head every five seconds. I feel insane. I feel crazy. And you don't get it.' Followers quickly leaped to Veruca's defence and assured her that she didn't have to explain her actions. Veruca gave birth to her son, Cash Harrison Stirling, on December 19 and has since shared dozens of moments from her first six weeks with the little one 'Everyone grieves so different. Please dont ever feel that you have to explain yourself. Dont let people tell you to be strong and stop crying,' one woman wrote. Another added: 'YOU grieve however you need to. Post 1000 times a day or not at all. F whoever has an issue. No one knows this type of pain unless theyve suffered a loss of this magnitude.' Veruca gave birth to her son, Cash Harrison Stirling, on December 19 and confirmed the news with her followers in an Instagram post. 'My perfect gorgeous angel baby,' she wrote alongside footage of his birth. Veruca first announced her pregnancy in June by sharing a photo of a white and blue cake Veruca has shared dozens of moments from her first six weeks with Cash, which she described as 'experiencing the purest form of love'. The Instagram star first announced her pregnancy in June by sharing a photo of herself with a cake with blue in the centre. In September, Veruca revealed she had recently moved into an apartment on the Gold Coast after returning from a stint in London. The social media and OnlyFans star was born in New Zealand but has lived in Australia since she was three years old. For confidential support call Griefline: 1300 845 745 Irina Shayk shone in bright citrus tones as she walked the runway at the Helmut Lang Fall and Winter show in New York Friday. The supermodel, 38, who was spotted out with her daughter recently, strolled the catwalk in a bright orange long sleeve turtleneck top with large cutouts that offered a glimpse of her shoulders and arms. The cover girl wore diaphanous tangerine pants with a honeycomb print with high waisted black boy shorts beneath and black pumps. Irina's long hair was slicked back away from her face and cascaded down her back. Her makeup popped with a bold smoky eye paired with nude lipstick. Irina Shayk shone in bright citrus tones as she walked the runway at the Helmut Lang Fall and Winter show in New York Friday The theme for the collection was PROTECTION VS. PROJECTION. According to video shared in her Instagram Stories, Irina's look was one of only a few looks with pop of color. The luxurious collection was otherwise focused on neutrals such as black, white, gray and tan. Jeannie Mai, 45, was dressed in some of those neutrals for her seat in the front row. The How Do I Look host was styled in a white button down blouse with a plunging neckline, black pants with large satin cuffs, a black leather wrap belt and black pumps. She donned a full-length taupe trench coat and carried a small white purse. The television personality's dark hair was styled straight and she wore natural looking makeup with a plumb lip and she accessorized with silver earrings. '#NYFW is always a good idea.. esp for the zaddies,' she wrote after the show on Instagram, tagging Helmut Lang and creative director Peter Do. Molly Ringwald, 55, was dressed in basic black with a pop of color. The supermodel, 38, strolled the catwalk in a bright orange long sleeve turtleneck top with large cutouts that offered a glimpse of her arm and breast. She wore diaphanous tangerine pants with a honeycomb print with high waisted black boy shorts beneath and black pumps Jeannie Mai, 45, was styled in a white button down blouse with a plunging neckline, black pants with large satin cuffs, a black leather wrap belt and black pumps. She donned a full-length taupe trench coat and carried a small white purse Molly Ringwald, 55, was outfitted in a black suit with a classic jacket, but the pants had mustard yellow stripe along the outside of the legs. She wore a mustard yellow button down blouse with a bright pink camisole beneath The Feud star was outfitted in a black suit with a classic jacket, but the pants had mustard yellow stripe along the outside of the legs. She wore a mustard yellow button down blouse with a bright pink camisole beneath. The Pretty in Pink star wore a bright pink lip and her eyes featured shadows in shades of pink and purple. She carried a bright pink box purse. Her shoulder length Titian locks were pulled back into a half-ponytail with bangs framing her face. Irina showed her street style after walking the show, stepping out in black leather leggings and boots beneath a dark denim short shorts and an orange and yellow jacket with a black turtleneck and black cuffs. Irina showed her street style after walking the show The model was spotted stepping out in black leather leggings and boots beneath a dark denim micro-mini skirt and an orange and yellow jacket with a black turtleneck and black cuffs The Russian-born beauty pulled her dark hair back into a low ponytail and wore dark sunglasses. She accessorized with large gold hoop earrings. Irina will no doubt be gracing other runways in the days to come. New York Fashion Week began February 9 and will continue through February 14. Irina was later seen with her daughter, Lea, almost seven The pair bought an ice cream cone. The The runway veteran shares the cutie with her former partner, Maestro star and director Bradley Cooper, 49 Irina was later seen with her daughter, Lea, almost seven, grabbing an ice cream cone after school. The young elementary school student looked adorable in pink and white, including a large puffy jacket, a floral skirt and white tights with light pink ankle boots. Her long blonde hair was styled in long pig tails and she carried a black back pack with turquoise zippers The runway veteran shares the cutie with her former partner, Maestro star and director Bradley Cooper, 49. Ozzy Osbourne called out Kanye West for using an unauthorized sample of Black Sabbath's War Pigs in a song on his and Ty Dolla $ign's upcoming record, Vultures. Following the 46-year-old rapper's album listening party at Chicago's United Center on Thursday, the British rocker, 75, made it clear he wants 'no association' with the controversial performer, who has a long history of making antisemitic comments. Osbourne, whose late father-in-law Don Arden was Jewish, took to Twitter to slam the Grammy winner and denounce him for the pain he has caused the Jewish community. '@kanyewest ASKED PERMISSION TO SAMPLE A SECTION OF A 1983 LIVE PERFORMANCE OF 'WAR PIG' FROM THE US FESTIVAL WITHOUT VOCALS & WAS REFUSED PERMISSION BECAUSE HE IS AN ANTISEMITE AND HAS CAUSED UNTOLD HEARTACHE TO MANY,' Osbourne wrote on X (previously known as Twitter). Ozzy Osbourne called out Kanye West for using an unauthorized sample of Black Sabbath's War Pigs in a song on his and Ty Dolla $ign's upcoming record, Vultures He continued: 'HE WENT AHEAD AND USED THE SAMPLE ANYWAY AT HIS ALBUM LISTENING PARTY LAST NIGHT. I WANT NO ASSOCIATION WITH THIS MAN!' DailyMail.com has contacted reps for West for comment, but has not heard back. Oddly enough, Osbourne and his wife dressed as West and Bianca Censori last year for Halloween. West took to Instagram on Friday to claim the post from Ozzy was written by a 'celebrity handler' and posted a snap of the pair in their Halloween costumes. On Thursday, the livestream for West's album listening party was cut off after he referred to himself in a song as a 'crazy, bipolar, anti-Semite.' After that lyric the feed on streaming service Veeps cut to black and went silent as the star was apparently censored. West has a documented history of anti-Semitism and last year lost out on a number of partnership deals after going on an explosive anti-Semitic rant. The ex-husband of Kim Kardashian vowed to go 'death con 3 on JEWISH PEOPLE' in a string of sick posts online. His title track Vultures also included the vile lyric: 'How am I anti-Semitic? I just f****d a Jewish b***h.' Following the 46-year-old rapper's album listening party at Chicago's United Center on Thursday, the British rocker, 75, made it clear he wants 'no association' with the controversial performer, who has a long history of making antisemitic comments (seen in 2024) '@kanyewest ASKED PERMISSION TO SAMPLE A SECTION OF A 1983 LIVE PERFORMANCE OF 'WAR PIG' FROM THE US FESTIVAL WITHOUT VOCALS & WAS REFUSED PERMISSION BECAUSE HE IS AN ANTISEMITE AND HAS CAUSED UNTOLD HEARTACHE TO MANY,' Osbourne wrote on X (previously known as Twitter) Oddly enough, Osbourne and his wife (pictured in October 2023) dressed as West and Bianca Censori last year for Halloween West took to Instagram on Friday to claim the post from Ozzy was written by a 'celebrity handler' and posted a snap of the pair in their Halloween costumes Fans were also left baffled online after West - who had heavily teased his album was coming on February 9 - failed to drop it. One X user wrote: 'Where is that album?', 'bro lied again' and '$20 to see Kanye trying to find aux whole stream and then forgets to drop the album.' West announced an NYC event for his upcoming album Vultures previously - and shared a bizarre clip from the lead single's controversial music video. The rapper shared a post which read 'Vultures UBS Arena New York 02 09 24.; The star then shared a video clip of 'VULTURES (Havoc Version) created by Jon Rafman' which featured post-apocalyptic scenes, a masked Kanye brandishing a gun and a burning church. Kanye wiped his Instagram for the second time in a week while seemingly teasing a Chicago listening party for his and Ty Dolla $ign's upcoming joint album. On Monday, the rapper, whose wife Bianca Censori made headlines for wearing a clear raincoat with nothing underneath earlier in the day, shared an Instagram post teasing a special event scheduled to take place at United Center on Thursday. On Thursday, the livestream for West's album listening party was cut off after he referred to himself in a song as a 'crazy, bipolar, anti-Semite' Fans were also left baffled online after West - who had heavily teased his album was coming on February 9 - failed to drop West announced an NYC event for his upcoming album Vultures previously - and shared a bizarre clip from the lead single's controversial music video The rapper, who has come under fire for Vultures' anti-Semitic lyrics, shared a post which read 'Vultures UBS Arena New York 02 09 24.' The star then shared a video clip of 'VULTURES (Havoc Version) created by Jon Rafman' which featured post-apocalyptic scenes, a masked Kanye brandishing a gun and a burning church The father-of-four went on to upload an image of the number '1' on his account, most likely a nod to Vultures, Volume One, which he previously announced was dropping on February 9. Both West and Sucker for Pain hitmaker, 41, also shared an image, which read: 'Vultures United Center Chicago 02 08 24.' At this time, United Center does not any events set for Thursday. The Chicago Blackhawks, however, are scheduled to play at the stadium on Wednesday and Friday. Back in 2021, ahead of the release of his tenth studio album Donda, he previously hosted multiple listening parties for fans in Chicago and Atlanta. His single, Vulture, off the record, has been slammed by Jewish organizations who branded him 'pathetic and sad' over vile lyrics about a Jewish woman. Vultures features the 'offensive' lyrics: 'How am I anti-Semitic? I just f***ed a Jewish b****.' The lyrics prompted a furious backlash among some fans and was even condemned by the American Jewish Committee, among others. The video featured bizarre religious imagery and shots of Kanye with a weapon 'To fuel the flames of antisemitism and promote such bile to his millions of followers, especially at this fraught and dangerous time for the Jewish community, is unforgivable,' spokesman Richard Hirschhaut told TMZ, at the time. He added that the West's choice is unsurprising however, given his previous antisemitic remarks. But he said this latest scandal, 'seems particularly pathetic and sad.' The Anti Defamation League also joined criticism, telling the outlet: 'At a time of rising antisemitism worldwide, its disgusting to see Kanye once again use his platform to spew Jew hatred.' On Monday, the rapper, whose wife Bianca Censori made headlines for wearing a clear raincoat with nothing underneath earlier in the day, shared an Instagram post teasing a special event scheduled to take place at United Center on Thursday The father-of-four went on to upload an image of the number '1' on his account, most likely a nod to Vultures, Volume One, which he previously announced was dropping on February 9 Both West, 46, and Sucker for Pain hitmaker, 41, also shared an image, which read: 'Vultures United Center Chicago 02 08 24' West has a documented history of antisemitism and last year lost out on a number of partnership deals after going on an explosive anti-Semitic rant. The ex-husband of Kim Kardashian vowed to go 'death con 3 on JEWISH PEOPLE' in a string of sick posts online. Shortly after the tweet, the Praise God rapper told Piers Morgan he only meant to take aim at certain specific Jews, who he felt exploited him. When the talk show host contended the comments were 'as racist as anything you've been through,' the Gold Digger rapper retorted, 'that's why I said it. I fought fire with fire.' In an interview with right wing talk show host Alex Jones in early December, Kanye praised Hitler for his 'redeeming qualities.' Back in 2021, ahead of the release of his tenth studio album Donda, he previously hosted multiple listening parties for fans in Chicago and Atlanta; seen earlier this month He also maintained that the 'Holocaust is not what happened' and promoted the conspiracy theory that Black people are the real Jews. West's rants saw him lose out on lucrative contracts with The Gap, Adidas and Balenciaga and more. He was also dropped by his management team at Creative Artists Agency. His decision to debut the song comes at a time when anti-Semitic attacks are on the rise amid the ongoing Israel Hamas conflict. Racism against Jewish people and Muslims has soared in the wake of the October 7 attack. West is married to Bianca Censori (seen above in May 2023) According to the Anti-Defamation League the number of anti-Semitic incidents increased fourfold. The watchdog counted 312 anti-Semitic incidents between October 7-23, ranging from harassment to vandalism and physical assaults. Meanwhile college campuses ands schools have seen a notable spike, according to the American Jewish Committee. A record number of incidents were reported, with nearly 100 incidents occurring at US universities between October 7 and 30. The soaring number of incidents has prompted the White House to introduce a series of measures to tackle the 'alarming' rise in both anti-Semitic and Islamophobic attacks. Kylie Jenner debuted shorter hair in a new Instagram snap she shared on Friday afternoon. The star, 26, unveiled her new short bob - which grazed her ears and featured long bangs - while posing for a selfie outside in the sun. She jokingly wrote in the caption that mom 'Kris Jenner is quaking,' referring to how she now rocks a similar look as her mom. Soon after, Kylie shared a second image showing off her short locks while posing in a tiny strapless tube top and matching skirt. Kylie Jenner debuted shorter hair in a new Instagram snap she shared on Friday afternoon The star, 26, unveiled her new short hair - which grazed her ears and featured long bangs - while posing for a selfie outside in the sun. Soon after, Kylie shared a second image showing off her short locks while posing in a tiny strapless tube top and matching skirt Kylie paired her short ear-length hair with rose pink blush on her cheeks with soft brown eye shadow. Mom Kris has rocked the short hair for years. She jokingly commented on Kylie's Instagram post, writing: 'You're not even the fart.' In her second snap, Kylie showed off her outfit - a black tube top with a matching skirt - revealing her flat midriff. In January, Kylie showcased her natural long hair while attending fashion week in Paris. She sported a pink tinted wig prior to fashion week - with fans calling it the return of her King Kylie era. It turned out to be a wig because she was back to her brown-black locks for Paris Fashion Week. Kylie revealed her natural hair in April 2023 via her TikTok. Mom Kris has rocked the short hair for years She oozed confidence while posing up with her new hair Kylie shared new looks and angles of her cut on social media throughout the day on Friday She puckered up for the camera She jokingly commented on Kylie's Instagram post Her big sister Khloe Kardashian also loved the new look She sported a pink tinted wig prior to fashion week - with fans calling it the return of her King Kylie era It turned out to be a wig because she was back to her brown-black locks for Paris Fashion Week; seen January 24, 2024 at Paris Fashion Week In the video, Kylie started it off by showing off her natural hair and talking about her hair journey. 'My hair. This is my natural hair. We've just been embracing. We're on a hair health journey so I haven't been wearing any extensions and this is what we're dealing with.' In February 2020, Kylie showed off very short locks - grazing her ears - courtesy of her hairstylist Jesus Guerrero. She had jokingly accused him of cutting off all of her hair after she just asked him for a trim. Prior to her haircut, Kylie had shoulder length hair. One month later - in March 2020, Kylie lightened her in order to go blonde, which she rocked for most of the remainder of 2020, before ending her year with fuchsia dyed hair. She wore extensions for both blonde and fuchsia looks. Kylie revealed her natural hair in April 2023 via her TikTok In the video, Kylie started it off by showing off her natural hair and talking about her hair journey In February 2020, Kylie showed off very short locks - grazing her ears - courtesy of her hairstylist Jesus Guerrero She had jokingly accused him of cutting off all of her hair after she just asked him for a trim One month later - in March 2020, Kylie lightened her in order to go blonde, which she rocked for most of the remainder of 2020, before ending her year with fuchsia dyed hair The star is in a relationship with actor Timothee Chalamet, 28. Kylie' romance with boyfriend Timothee is still going strong, with couple enjoying a loved up outing to the Golden Globe Awards on Sunday, January 7. They were also spotted together at the annual Kardashian/Jenner Christmas Eve bash. The couple had been quietly dating since early April, which was first revealed by celebrity gossip account DeuxMoi. A tipster had revealed that they were dating: ''Anon pls!! Multiple sources have told me Timmy C has a new girl... Kylie Jenner.' Kylie and Timothee are said to have sparked up a romance after they both attended the Jean-Paul Gaultier fashion show on January 25, 2023. In mid-April, after news broke of their coupling, Kylie's Range Rover was seen in Timothee's driveway of his Beverly Hills home. Her SUV drove straight up the Wonka star's driveway, according to TMZ. The star is in a relationship with actor Timothee Chalamet, 28; seen on January 7 at the Golden Globes Kylie' romance with boyfriend Timothee, 28, is still going strong, with couple enjoying a loved up outing to the Golden Globe Awards on Sunday, January 7 While they didn't walk the carpet together, they cuddled inside as they sat together The couple spotted together at the annual Kardashian/Jenner Christmas Eve bash in a Snapchat shared by Travis Barker's son Landon Barker One week later, she packed on the PDA with boyfriend Timothee at the US Open; pictured September 10, 2023 at the Us Open in New York City Kylie sipped on her drink as Timothee had a protective arm around her shoulders; the Dune actor occasionally moved his hand lower to her upper back One day later, Timothee jumped into Kylie's SUV after he attended an art show in Santa Monica, with her security guard jumping into his car and driving it, per TMZ. They arrived at Tito's Tacos in LA and her security team went and picked up food for them and brought it to the car. That same month, People's source reported that the stars were 'hanging out and getting to know each other with another insider revealing that they 'hang out every week' but it's 'not serious.' 'She is getting to know him. Kylie is having fun. After years of back and forth with Travis [Scott], she just wants to date without any pressure,' their source said. They were never seen together publicly until the Beyonce concert. A false rumor circulated in early August that the actor had 'dumped' her; TMZ confirmed they were still together and that the rumor was not true. Their first public sighting came on Monday, September 4 at Beyonce's last LA concert - which took place at the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, CA. In mid-April, after news broke of their coupling, Kylie's Range Rover was seen in Timothee's driveway of his Beverly Hills home Kylie and Timothee are said to have sparked up a romance after they both attended the Jean-Paul Gaultier fashion show on January 25, 2023; seen at the Jean-Paul Gaultier show in Paris on January 25, 2023 Timothee also seen January 25, 2023 in Paris at the Jean-Paul Gaultier show - where their romance sparked The couple made their public debut in the VIP section of the concert - with the stars kissing and cuddling, making it no secret of their red-hot romance. One week later, she packed on the PDA with boyfriend Timothee at the US Open. The couple shared several passionate kisses from their seat, while sitting very close to each other. Global manufacturing giant Unilever may have to shrink products and raise prices as it attempts to turn profits round, its boss confirmed today. The company - which owns brands such as Ben & Jerry's ice-cream, Dove soap and Hellmann's mayonnaise - saw its sales volume grow for the first time in two years by 0.2 percent. Unilever shares subsequently rose by 3.66 percent on Thursday. However, executives said the performance had been 'poor' and 'disappointing' in an earnings call today. Chief executive Hein Schumacher refused to rule out further 'shrinkflation' of its products - a practice whereby companies decrease the size of goods without adjusting the price. Global manufacturing giant Unilever may have to shrink products and raise prices as it attempts to turn profits round, its boss confirmed today The company - which owns brands such as Ben & Jerry's ice-cream, Dove soap and Hellmann's mayonnaise - saw its sales volume grow for the first time in two years by 0.2 percent. Unilever shares subsequently rose by 3.66 percent on Thursday The firm has already come under fire for shrinking its packets of Magnum ice creams and Simple soap bars. Schumacher told reporters today: 'On Shrinkflation, I want to offer two perspectives. The first one is, in some cases, it's important to offer an entry pack. 'That means a smaller pack for consumers who are indeed cash-strapped, and who need a smaller size, to simply be able to get food on the table or provide themselves daily necessities.' He added: 'This is something that we have done historically, globally in many of our emerging markets. And when that's needed to do that in developed markets, we obviously will do that.' Last year Unilever slashed the number of Magnum ice creams sold in its multipacks from four to three. The packs usually sell for around $5. Unilever's underlying sales growth - which strips out the effect of currency movements - reached 7 percent in 2023. The increase was driven by rising prices which increased 6.8 percent over the year. Unilever's underlying sales growth - which strips out the effect of currency movements - reached 7 percent in 2023 The increase was driven by rising prices which increased 6.8 percent over the year CEO Hein Schumacher refused to rule out implementing more 'shrinkflation' in future However only around a third of its consumer goods brand grew their market share in 2023 - something Unilever described as 'disappointing.' In a statement, the company said: 'This poor performance reflects share losses to private label in Europe, consumer shifts to super-premium segments in North America where we currently under-index and a significant reduction of unprofitable products globally. 'Our competitiveness is not good enough and we are moving quickly to address it.' The firm's beauty and wellbeing brands recorded an underlying sales growth of 8.3 percent, with Vaseline among its best performers. By contrast sales of ice-cream fell sharply by 6 percent between 2022 and 2023. For the year ahead, it expects underlying sales growth to be within the range of 3 percent and 5 percent. Chase Anthony Vane Ditter Chase Anthony Vane Ditter, beloved son of Cory and Cheryl (Ruffner) Ditter and brother of Nathan and Jackson Ditter, had his life tragically taken on Tuesday, February 6, 2024. Chase was only 17 years old and looked forward to graduating from Columbus High School this May. Chase was an extremely intelligent and accomplished student who was in the top ten percent of his graduating class. He had been accepted into the Honors College at UNL with a Chancellor's Tuition Scholarship. However, Chase was also accepted into the accelerated Cybersecurity master's program at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) in New York where he planned to attend in the Fall. Chase was actively involved in the Columbus Public Schools Robotics program for many years, having served as his Team's Programmer. He also served as an Officer in the Skills USA program. Chase was honored to have been selected by his teachers to represent Columbus High in multiple math competitions earning top placement for the school. As a Senior, Chase was particularly excited about his Mechatronics class with his favorite teacher, Mr. Whitmore. In his spare time, Chase was happy to serve the Columbus community as a Volunteen for Columbus Hospital and as a volunteer with Camp Invention each summer. He also enjoyed helping his fellow classmates through participation as a Tutor in the Columbus High Tutoring Program with a focus on STEM subjects. Chase grew and recently cut his beautiful red hair for donation. Chase was highly motivated. He began working at the age of fifteen, beginning with a job at Arbys and recently enjoyed working with his Dad and his Uncle Darin at DiStar. He also had an interest in flying and had logged many flight training hours, beginning at the age of fifteen with aspirations of obtaining his pilot's license. Since the Pandemic, Chase had struggled with depression, but was actively working with health care professionals to address this health concern. He had recently begun to experience and express joy and was very much looking forward to his future. Chase enjoyed a number of favorite things, including Duster's Beer Cheese Soup; Rootbeer; Lemonade (no ice); pineapple; Arby's; spending one-on-one time with his Dad; making meatballs and binge watching Lost in Space with his Mom; teasing his brothers; beating his family at cards; his animals, especially his favorite cat, Shadow. He also enjoyed and found comfort in listening to classic rock in which Queen was his favorite. Chase had gotten the travel bug, having traveled to Boston, Rochester, Niagara Falls, Branson, Cincinnati and Cleveland this past year--he encouraged his family to obtain passports this year for extended international travel. He was looking forward to spending spring break with his family in Florida in March and was hoping to convince his parents to book a 15-day Great Lakes and Canada cruise before starting college. Family was very important to Chase. He had a special bond with his Grammy and always looked forward to, and made a priority of, spending Friday evenings with her and his Aunt Shelby. His Father, Cory was vigilant in his protection of Chase, keeping him safe by his side. Chase enjoyed playing cards and games with his Mom and brothers. He always enjoyed and looked forward to having his East Coast relatives come to Nebraska for their annual 4th of July festivities, and was particularly fond of his cousin, Drew. Chase was the family expert on all things related to technology. Chase was preceded in death by his paternal great-grandparents, Anthony Bud and Zathea Hilger and Robert and Viola Schmid, his paternal grandfather, David Schmid, and his maternal grandparents, Larry and Yvonne (Butchie) Ruffner. Chase is survived by his parents, his twin brothers, his grandmother (Grammy) Sheila Hilger, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and a tight knit friend group. The family is devastated by his tragic loss and appreciates the support of their entire family, friends, colleagues, and greater Columbus community as they mourn the loss of their dear son and brother. Graveside services are 10 a.m. Tuesday, February 13 at Columbus Cemetery. Visitation is on Monday from 4-8 p.m. at McKown Funeral Home In lieu of plants and flowers, the family recommends donations in Chase's name to any of the following organizations that were important to Chase: Platte County Historical Society, Camp Invention of Columbus, or Paws and Claws of Columbus. The centre has released about Rs 15,948 crore under different schemes in the last five years till January 31 to various sugar mills to improve their liquidity for clearing cane price dues of farmers, Parliament was informed on Friday. Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Anupriya Patel said the central government, with a view to improve liquidity of the sugar mills enabling them to clear cane price dues of farmers, has announced these schemes in the last five years. These schemes include the creation and maintenance of a buffer stock of 30 lakh tonne of sugar with effect from July 2018 to June 30, 2019; scheme for defraying expenditure towards internal transport, freight, handling, and other charges on the export of sugar season 2018-19; and assistance to sugar mills season 2019-20 to facilitate the export of sugar. A scheme for providing assistance to sugar mills for expenses on marketing costs including, handling, upgrading and other processing costs, and internal transport and freight charges for sugar season 2020-21, 2019-20 and 2018-19 was also announced. Under these schemes, a sum of about Rs 15,948 crore has been released to various sugar mills of the country in last five financial years including the current financial year till January 31, 2024, Patel said in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha. She said that the export of sugar (raw, refined and white sugar) has been placed under a restricted category. In 2022-23, sugar exports stood at 63 lakh tonne. This fiscal, no export has happened. In a separate reply, she said that the government has initiated an exercise to create a new online platform to connect exporters with various stakeholders, including Indian Missions abroad, export promotion councils, and other partner government agencies. It would help provide information such as the details of various trade events being organised and provide information on various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). Replying to a question on FTA, she said that imports of wines and vermouth(a kind of aromatic fortified) from Australia stood at USD 8.9 million during the January-December 2023 as against USD 10 million in the same period of 2022. India-Australia Economic Cooperation Trade Agreement (Ind-Aus ECTA) came into effect from December 29, 2022. How did western intelligence agencies pave the way for Iranians to stand irreversibly against the pro-western leader? The Iranian Revolution is completing 45 years this week. The Western alliance remained oblivious to the profound resentment brewing among the Iranian populace towards their final monarch, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. Embracing an illusion of unshakeable authority, Pahlavi championed his "White Revolution" as a symbol of progress, positioning Iran as an inspiration of Western liberalism and economic advancement. However, beneath the facade of prosperity, discontent festered, unbeknownst to many outside observers. Ascending to power at the youthful age of 21, Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi inherited a legacy shaped by his father, Reza Shah Pahlavi, the founder of the Pahlavi dynasty. Presenting himself as a contemporary incarnation of Cyrus the Great, Pahlavi orchestrated a grand spectacle in 1970 at the ancient ruins of Persepolis, aiming to impress global leaders and assert his dynastic legitimacy. Yet, as he revelled in adulation, the populace endured poverty and repression, obscured by the tactics of the Iranian secret police and the support of the US-backed intelligence apparatus, SAVAK, highlighting the growing chasm between perception and reality. Despite the Shah's efforts to bolster his legitimacy through lavish displays of power, the elaborate festivities only served to underscore the decadence and detachment of his regime, hastening its eventual downfall. In the mid-1970s, however, mounting public discontent reached a tipping point, compelling the Shah to offer apologies for his regime's excesses. Yet, these gestures failed to appease the swelling tide of mass protests, culminating in the seismic upheaval of the Islamic Revolution. The revolution's aftermath witnessed the swift collapse of the Shah's reign, marking the end of a monarchy that had endured for millennia. This monumental event exposed the limitations of Western intelligence and intervention, reshaping the geopolitical terrain of the 20th century. In August 1978, despite the escalating unrest, the CIA infamously concluded that "Iran is not in a revolutionary or even a pre-revolutionary situation." Figures like Alan Dulles and Richard Bissell grappled with the moral ambiguity of clandestine operations, revealing the intricate power dynamics at play in global affairs. In reality, the animosity directed towards Iran stems not from any genuine political ideology, but rather from the relentless pursuit of control over the oil industry. The concocted narrative surrounding this issue is often branded by the CIA as 'Black Propaganda'. The 1953 coup, orchestrated by Western powers including the United States and the United Kingdom against Iran's democratically elected Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh, exemplifies manipulative tactics employed to safeguard Western interests. Operation Ajax, as it was known, set a precedent for similar interventions in other countries, including Guatemala, Chile, Brazil, and Greece. However, this successful coup, aimed at preserving Western dominance in the region, sparked widespread opposition and laid the groundwork for Iran's subsequent revolutionary fervour under Ayatollah Khomeini's leadership. It underscores the deceptive facade of Western foreign policy, which often masks imperial ambitions with the rhetoric of democracy and liberty, perpetuating cycles of exploitation and subjugation. Before Mossadegh's premiership, Iran's oil industry was firmly under British control through the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company's monopoly. The nationalization of this asset in 1951 significantly weakened British interests in the region, revealing strategic miscalculations. Rohan Butler's suppressed analysis offers crucial insights into the complex blend of political, economic, and strategic factors behind the crisis. The fervent political milieu preceding the nationalization and the subsequent coup in 1953 has made it one of the most scrutinized events in Iranian-Western relations. Mossadegh, central to this narrative, symbolizes resistance against autocracy and foreign intervention, his collapse was seen as the moment when Iran's democratic aspirations were thwarted, paving the way for the reinstatement of autocratic rule under Western patronage. In this context, the Iranian Revolution marks a pivotal moment not only in Iran's modern history but also in the geopolitics of West Asia, as it overthrew the monarchy and established the Islamic Republic. While its broad contours are well-documented, exploring lesser-known aspects of the revolution reveals its complexity and lasting significance. A diverse coalition of secularists, nationalists, liberals, and leftists united to express long-suppressed grievances against the Shah's despotic rule, culminating in widespread discontent and his eventual ousting. Despite its success, the revolution left lingering resentment towards Western powers, particularly the United States and the United Kingdom, perceived as backers of the Shah's regime. This suspicion of foreign interference continues to shape Iranian attitudes, while the revolution's influence extended beyond Iran's borders, inspiring Islamic movements and revolutions in neighbouring countries and reshaping the Middle East's geopolitical dynamics. The charismatic leadership and religious authority of Ayatollah Khomeini played a pivotal role in galvanizing popular support for the revolution, while the participation of bazaar traders, a powerful economic class, amplified its momentum. The Iranian Revolution serves as a nuanced case study, highlighting the complex socio-political dynamics inherent in revolutionary movements. Religious ideology played a central role in mobilizing and legitimizing political dissent, underscoring its potent influence in effecting societal change. The revolution's aftermath underscores the importance of inclusive governance, warning against the marginalization of dissenting voices, which can lead to authoritarianism and sectarian strife. Its far-reaching repercussions underscore the interconnectedness of global politics and the imperative of respecting national sovereignty to avoid unintended consequences. Decades after the Iranian Revolution, Iran continues to grapple with its profound and multifaceted legacy, both internally and externally. This pivotal event serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of revolutionary fervour on the socio-political structure, showcasing its transformative potential alongside its enduring complexities. Iran's foreign policy is deeply rooted in its cultural and psychological heritage, characterized by a complex blend of pride, victimization, and a steadfast commitment to independence. Iranians draw upon their rich cultural legacy, tracing their heritage back to ancient civilizations like Zoroastrianism, which shaped major world religions. Yet, they also harbour collective memories of centuries of foreign oppression and exploitation, including imperialistic endeavours by the West that overthrew Iran's democracy. This historical backdrop profoundly influences Iran's perception of foreign powers, particularly the United States, which is often viewed through the lens of economic and strategic interests rather than genuine support for democratic principles. In navigating Iran's foreign relations, it's imperative to understand the intricate interplay of cultural, historical, and geopolitical factors that shape its policies. Iran's complex relationship with the Western world, spanning centuries of engagement and confrontation, underscores the nuanced nature of its foreign policy decisions. From the Safavid dynasty's establishment of Twelver Shiism to European powers' economic and strategic interests during the Qajar dynasty, Iran's historical legacy continues to inform its interactions with the international community, highlighting the importance of historical context in understanding contemporary foreign relations. The Iranian Revolution offers a nuanced study of power dynamics in history, where victories can sow the seeds of future resistance. Despite facing formidable challenges, Iran has experienced remarkable advancements across various sectors over time. Statistics from UNESCO demonstrate significant improvements in literacy rates and life expectancy, showcasing the nation's commitment to education and healthcare. Additionally, Iran's economic panorama has undergone substantial growth, with the nation ascending in global rankings and witnessing remarkable expansion in sectors like space technology. The revolution's triumph over Western-backed forces not only reshaped Iran's domestic political structure but also reverberated across the globe, inspiring similar movements and challenging Western dominance. Unfortunately, many Western strategists and policymakers are quick to jump to conclusions with their preconceived notions, potentially contributing to the turmoil in the Red Sea and the chronic disasters in West Asia, spanning from Palestine to Syria and beyond. The essence of revolution, however, as emphasized by Lu Xun in his writings, lies in its purpose: to ensure people can live, rather than face death. (The writer is a Sri Lankan journalist and worked as a communications consultant for the Government of Sri Lanka. Views are personal) The perilous circumstances faced by women in conflict zones cannot be overstated, especially during the ongoing Gaza turmoil Once a UN Peacekeeping Commander observed that it has probably become more dangerous to be a woman than a soldier in an armed conflict. The current situation in Gaza amply proves it, as the death toll rises above 25,000, and more than 17, 000 women and children lost their lives (January 24). Almost two mothers die every hour. It is indeed a place where womanhood is denied, rued a Palestine-based civil society organisation (MIFTAH). The UNICEF, called it the most dangerous place to be a child, when over 1.1 million children are threatened by conflict, malnutrition, and diseases. While, the prolonged war in Ukraine since 2022, has raised the number of refugees to 5.6 million, and internal displacement (IDP) to about 7.7 million, 60% of whom are women (UN). Many studies on peace and warfare contend that any conflict, civil or armed, is gendered, which affects women and men in starkly different ways. Researchers have said that in a situation of unrest when political structures and economic systems break down, it heightens womens vulnerability, reinforces existing inequalities and places women and girls at high risk for gender-based violence (GBV) (Oxfam, Bushra and Lopez 1994 et al). The Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Denis Mukwege, lamented that we are far away from drawing a red line against the use of sexual violence in war and conflict, and GBV is still a weapon of war. While, social scientists expressed concern that in conflict zones, sexual offences against women are often trivialised, and a heinous crime like rape is normalised as an inevitable outcome of war. The UNs 2022 report on sexual violence in conflict zones said that sexual violence is used as a tactic to dehumanise and displace populations. Even in post-war situations, when there is the apparent absence of violence or negative security, the culture of violence against women doesnt end or bring in positive peace, and it continues and even increases after men return from the battlefield (Turshen and Twagiramariya 1998). A three-country study in post-conflict Iraq, in conflict-ridden Occupied Palestinian Territory, and Yemen, an area of open conflict, found that women and girls, in all such calamitous situations, face deep gender inequalities and all-out adverse impacts. Women also bear the brunt of huge internal displacement ((IDP) in the wake of conflict and violence. In 2020, at least 21 million women and girls were uprooted within their countries, two-thirds of them were from Africa and the Middle East. In South Asia, women make up 42 to 52 per cent of refugees. Nearly one million women have been displaced since the war began in October in Gaza. In the post-conflict situation, women experience greater impoverishment, being the first to be laid off in wage employment in the public sector, which has led to the feminisation of the informal sector, disclosed a study. The lack of essential services such as health care, including sexual and reproductive health services, also makes them more vulnerable to unplanned pregnancy, maternal mortality and morbidity, sexual and reproductive injuries and sexually transmitted infections. While girls face obstacles in accessing education. The UNs women, peace and security, report, 2023, said that more than 600 million women and girls lived in conflict-affected countries in 2022, a 50 per cent increase since 2017. Even, the political violence targeting women increased by 50 per cent in conflict-affected countries (2020 - 2022). While, civil conflicts have more than doubled, from 30 in 2001 to 70 in 2016, mostly in least developed countries. When the world needs greater humanitarian aid more than ever before, the global military spending rose to USD 2.2 trillion in 2022, and this diversification of priorities is setting back both gender equality and global peace, rued the UN Women. Many feminists argued that in conflict and post-conflict scenarios, a gender perspective must be integrated into the reconstruction and redevelopment plans. So far, male norms and behaviours have been taken as the human norm (Skelsbaek and Smith 2001:1). The application of international humanitarian law also requires an understanding of the gendered harms caused by armed conflict.In terms of the longevity of a peace agreement, womens participation increases it to at least two years( 20%), and 15 years ( 35 %), and also makes it 64% less likely to fail. Yet, womens participation in formal peace processes (1992-2019), on average, was just 13 per cent as negotiators, 6 per cent as mediators, and 6 per cent as signatories in major peace processes. In active United Nationsled or co-led peace processes, in 2022, it was 16%, going down from 19 per cent in 2021 and 23 per cent in 2020. While, in 2022, only 6 out of 18 peace agreements (33 per cent) included provisions referencing women, girls, and gender, and they are plateauing between 20 to 35 per cent each year. Now, when the world is on the verge of more turmoil and discord, greater and meaningful participation of women is critical for broadening the perspective on conflict management, more inclusive political resolutions, and effective peace-building strategies. (The author is former Director General, Doordarshan and All India Radio, views are personal) New Delhi will replace its military personnel by "competent Indian technical personnel" in Maldives, ministry of external affairs (MEA) said here on Thursday. This assertion came days after the second high-level meeting between India and the Maldives here. After conflicting reports on India's aid allocation for the Maldives in this year's Budget, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal also clarified on Thursday that the new figure could be revised and India remains "an important development partner" of the island nation. "I would like to say that the present personnel will be replaced by competent Indian technical personnel," Jaiswal told a regular media briefing without giving details. India has around 80 personnel, including medical staff, to operate three aircraft in the archipelago nation's vast maritime territory, and the "eviction" of Indian forces had been a core plank of Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu in the lead-up to the presidential elections last year. After the meeting in New Delhi last week, the Maldives had issued a statement claiming that both sides had agreed that India would replace military personnel in one of the three aviation platforms by March 10 and the others by May 10. India had, however, made no mention of withdrawing troops, stating, "During the meeting, both sides continued their discussions on wide-ranging issues related to bilateral cooperation towards identifying steps to enhance the partnership, including expediting the implementation of ongoing development cooperation projects." "Both sides also agreed on a set of mutually workable solutions to enable continued operation of Indian aviation platforms that provide humanitarian and medvac services (medical evacuation) to the people of Maldives," the MEA had said To a question on the aid allocation for the Maldives, Jaiswal said some had interpreted the budgetary allocation as going down, while others have said it has gone up. "What happens is that a certain amount of money is allocated and, thereafter, there is a phase for revision... So you would see that the budget for the Maldives, this time, what has been given is ? 779 crore as against ? 600 crore which was projected earlier, so it has actually gone up. The new figures will also be revised once we have more details, more clarity on what sort of forward movement is happening," he said. "We remain an important development partner, committed development partner for the Maldives," Jaiswal asserted. It was learnt India is considering several options to replace the military personnel currently in the Maldives to operate two ALH helicopters and a Dornier aircraft that were provided by New Delhi. One option is replacing the military personnel with civilian operators familiar with the two platforms, including retired personnel from the three services with experience of flying and maintaining the aircraft, sources said. The Narendra Modi Government on Friday added three other national luminaries former Prime Ministers PV Narasimha Rao, Chaudhary Charan Singh, and agriculture scientist MS Swaminathan to the list of recipients of the Bharat Ratna awards, bringing the total number of announcements for the nations highest civilian honour to five within a span of 15 days. The awards have been conferred upon distinguished personalities, including LK Advani and Karpoori Thakur, which has also changed political alignments ahead of the Lok Sabha polls as the NDA Government is betting on for a hat-trick. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that former Prime Ministers PV Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh, as well as agriculture scientist MS Swaminathan, will be honoured with the Bharat Ratna. Modi, who took to microblogging platform X to make the announcement, lauded the contributions made by the three awardees. Later, the Rashtrapati Bhavan in a press communique said the President has been pleased to award Bharat Ratna to the three eminent persons. The Modi Governments move to recognise two stalwart politicians who came from non-BJP backgrounds is resonant with political and social messaging. It is expected to boost the BJPs efforts to present itself as a party that represents pan-India interests and aspirations and recognises leading people in different fields. Making the announcements for Rao, whose liberalisation policies revolutionised the economy, Singh, a champion of farmer causes, and Swaminathan, a globally renowned agricultural scientist, Modi lauded their contributions to the country. The conferring of the highest civilian award to Singh, Rao, and Swaminathan is likely to make a big impact in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, particularly among farmers and Telangana. Today, the politically powerful Jats have the potential of influencing results in nearly 40 Lok Sabha seats and around 160 Assembly seats, spread across UP, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Delhi. Rao was the Prime Minister from 1991 to 1996 and is known to be the man who heralded the economic liberalisation of India. Singh, a champion of workers and farmers rights, briefly served as the Prime Minister in 1979. Swaminathan, a renowned scientist, is known as the architect of Indias green revolution. The decision stirred a range of reactions from political figures across party lines, including former Congress president Sonia Gandhi, who said she welcomes the announcement of giving the Bharat Ratna to Rao. The Government had earlier named former Bihar Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur, a champion of backward empowerment, and LK Advani, a founding BJP member credited with charting the course of its rise through the 1990s, for the countrys highest civilian honour. Modi has also sought to send out the message that the ruling BJP, unlike its predecessors at the helm, is not guided by parochial politics in recognising contributions in public life, as the party looks to break new ground during the polls. At five, one more than the four announced in 1999, this is the maximum number of Bharat Ratnas announced for a year. Four of the five awards this year are posthumous. Advani, 96, is the only one alive. Narasimha Rao steered India through critical transformations and also enriched its cultural and intellectual heritage, Modi said in his social media posts. Raos visionary leadership, Modi said, was instrumental in making India economically advanced and laid a solid foundation for its prosperity and growth. Bharat Ratna to Charan Singh is dedicated to his incomparable contribution to the country, the Prime Minister said. Swaminathan made monumental contributions to the country in agriculture and farmers welfare, Modi said. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture and made outstanding efforts in modernising it, the Prime Minister said. Singh, a Jat leader from western Uttar Pradesh who was Prime Minister in 1979-80, was one of the pioneers of anti-Congress politics at a time when the party was a hegemonic political force. Congress leader Rao, a Telugu, who was Prime Minister for a full five-year term during 1991-96, is widely recognised for ushering in economic reforms. It is our Governments fortune that Singh is being honoured with the Bharat Ratna, and it is dedicated to his incomparable contributions to the country, Modi said. Be it as an MLA, as Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, or the countrys Home Minister, he always sped up the nation-building exercise and also stood strongly against the Emergency, he added. Then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had imposed the Emergency in 1975. Singhs dedication to farmers and commitment to democracy during the Emergency inspires the country, the Prime Minister said. The honour for Singh comes at a time when the RLD, led by his grandson Jayant Singh, is believed to be in talks with the BJP for an alliance for the Lok Sabha polls, expected in April-May. Singh died in 1987. Paying rich tributes to Rao, who passed away in 2004, Modi said he served the country extensively in various capacities as a distinguished scholar and statesman. He said Rao is equally remembered for the work he did as the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, a Union Minister, and as a lawmaker in Parliament and the Assembly for many years. His visionary leadership was instrumental in making India economically advanced, laying a solid foundation for the countrys prosperity and growth, Modi said. Raos tenure as Prime Minister was marked by significant measures that opened India to global markets, fostering a new era of economic development, he added. Modi said Raos contributions to Indias foreign policy, language, and education sectors underscore his multifaceted legacy as a leader who not only steered India through critical transformations but also enriched its cultural and intellectual heritage. Raos admirers have long argued that he has not been given his due by the Congress due to his less than warm relations with the Nehru-Gandhi family, a point often made by BJP leaders too. As the countrys first and only full-term Prime Minister from South India, Rao occupies a special place in the region. Modi said it is a matter of immense joy that his Government is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Swaminathan in recognition of his monumental contributions to the nation in agriculture and farmers welfare. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture during challenging times and made outstanding efforts towards modernising Indian agriculture. We also recognise his invaluable work as an innovator and mentor and encouraging learning and research among several students, he said. Six rioters were killed in the violence that broke out over the demolition of an illegally built madrasa, officials said Friday as curfew remained enforced in Uttarakhands Haldwani town. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami visited Haldwani, meeting some of the injured. He termed the violence a planned attack, and said the stockpiling of arms, stones and petrol bombs suggested this. More than 60 people were hurt Thursday as local residents hurled stones and petrol bombs at municipal workers and the police, forcing many police personnel to seek refuge in a police station which the mob then set on fire. Seven people, including a journalist, were under treatment Friday at three different hospitals. Three of them were said to be in a serious condition. Others had been discharged. Altogether, six rioters were killed, Superintendent of Police (City) Harbans Singh told PTI. Uttarakhand DGP Abhinav Kumar on Friday said action under the stringent National Security Act will be taken against those who attacked police personnel and indulged in arson and vandalism in Haldwani. Haldwanis Banbhoolpura area looked deserted even on Friday. Three times the population of the United States, which means 96.88 crore Indians, are enrolled to exercise their franchise to choose the next government at the Centre in the forthcoming general election. The largest electorate in the world 96.88 crore are registered to vote for the forthcoming general elections in India, the Election Commission (EC) said. Over 2.63 crore new electors have been included in the electoral roll, with about 1.41 crore being women, surpassing the newly-enrolled male voters (1.22 crore) by over 15 per cent, according to the EC. There has been a six per cent increase in registered voters since 2019, when the last Lok Sabha polls were held. According to data shared by the EC, 1.85 crore voters have been identified as above 80 years of age, while the total number of centenarians stood at 2.38 lakh. The poll body considers those who are 80 years and above as senior citizens. As of February 8, Uttar Pradesh has the maximum number of voters at 15.30 crore, while Lakshadweep has over 57,000 registered voters. Of the total voters, 49.72 crore are male and 47.15 crore are female. Over 10.64 lakh advance applications were received from those above 17 years of age for enrollment in the voters list. People who are not yet 18 will automatically receive their voter identity cards once they attain the age of voting if they apply in advance. The poll body reported that the gender ratio also increased from 940 in 2023 to 948 in 2024. The number of third-gender voters increased from 39.68 thousand in 2014 to a little over 48,000. Simultaneously, more than two crore young electors, spanning the 18-19 and 20-29 year age groups, have been added to the electoral roll. The number of third-gender voters is 48,044. According to EC data, during the verification process, names of 1,65,76,654 deceased, permanently shifted, and duplicate electors have been deleted from the voters list. This includes 67,82,642 deceased voters, 75,11,128 permanently shifted or absent voters, and 22,05,685 duplicate voters. After months of intensive Special Summary Revision 2024 (SSR 2024) exercises and in preparation for the General Elections 2024, the Election Commission of India has published the electoral rolls in all States/UTs across the country, with January 1, 2024, as the qualifying date. This also includes the successful completion of the revision of electoral rolls in Jammu & Kashmir and Assam, following the delimitation of constituencies. Over 2.63 crore new electors have been included in the electoral roll, out of which around 1.41 crore are female electors, surpassing the newly enrolled male voters (1.22 crore) by over 15 per cent. The Electoral Roll gender ratio has surged positively, indicating the growing role of women in shaping the democratic fabric of the nation, said the EC. Special Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs) were appointed at the constituency level to facilitate youth enrollment directly from educational institutions, fostering greater civic engagement among the younger populace, it said. A commendable effort has been made to support Persons with Disabilities (PwD) by flagging around 88.35 lakh PwD electors in the electoral roll database, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity on polling day, it added. A total of over 10.64 lakh advance applications have been received with reference to three subsequent qualifying dates of the year, i.e., April 1, July 1, and October 1. These advance applications shall be disposed of in the relevant quarters. Special endeavors have been undertaken to achieve 100 per cent registration of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG), making the electoral rolls the most inclusive to date, the EC said. According to a 2023 letter sent by the EC to political parties, India had 17.32 crore registered voters in 1951, which rose to 19.37 crore in 1957. In the first Lok Sabha elections, the voter turnout was recorded at 45 percent. It was 67 per cent in the last parliamentary polls in 2019. The Commission has placed special emphasis on the purity and health of the electoral roll, along with disclosures and transparency in the revision of electoral rolls, an official pointed out. The Commission firmly believes that inclusive, healthy, pure, and transparently prepared electoral rolls are the foundation of free, fair, and credible elections. It has been the priority of the Commission to ensure that no eligible citizen is deprived of their right to be included in the electoral roll, and also to maintain electoral rolls error-free and without any duplicate and ineligible entries, to the extent possible, the EC said. The Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at AIIMS Bhopal inaugurated its Infertility Clinic today, marking a significant milestone in healthcare provision for couples facing challenges with conception. Prof (Dr) Ajai Singh, Executive Director of AIIMS Bhopal, ceremoniously opened the clinic, expressing his elation at the advent of dedicated services for infertile couples. Prof Singh underscored the importance of compassionate counseling for couples grappling with infertility issues and stressed the timely evaluation of male partner infertility. He commended the collaborative efforts across various departments including Urology, Endocrinology, Anatomy-Embryology, and Pathology & Lab Medicine, highlighting the multidisciplinary approach adopted by the Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology in rendering infertility services. Dr. Prabhakar Tiwari, CMHO Bhopal joined as a Special Guest on the occasion. In conjunction with the inauguration, a Public Awareness Program on Female Infertility was also organized, aiming to engage and educate the broader community about the services now available. Dr K Pushpalatha, Head of the Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology and Organizing Chairperson, extended a warm welcome to all attendees, emphasizing the clinic's role in providing comprehensive services to infertile couples. She expressed profound gratitude to Prof (Dr) Ajai Singh for his visionary leadership and unwavering support, which facilitated the realization of advanced infertility services and the imminent introduction of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) at AIIMS Bhopal. Situated within the Obstetrics & Gynaecology OPD premises, the Infertility Clinic operates in close proximity to the forthcoming IVF facility, ensuring seamless access to comprehensive care. With services available Monday through Saturday, the clinic aims to accommodate patients from near and far, extending its reach to those in need across the city and neighboring regions. Binance Partners with INTERPOL to Enhance Global Cybersecurity Efforts Binance has taken certain measures to fortify global cybersecurity efforts by collaborating with INTERPOL. In a recent half-day virtual session focused on essential topics related to cryptocurrency investigations and cyber policing in the rapidly evolving Web3 space, Binance hosted over 30 officers from INTERPOL, the exchange said in an official announcement. Binance provided insights into effective strategies and techniques for combating cyber threats. #Binance recently hosted a law enforcement sharing session for over 30 INTERPOL officers. We covered cryptocurrency investigations,cyber policing and more in our ongoing mission to strengthen global efforts to crack down on cybercrime. Read more https://t.co/fWZsGadwSK pic.twitter.com/Wl5bmuekpb Binance (@binance) February 9, 2024 INTERPOL Emphasizes Binances Role in Cyber Security During the meeting, representatives from INTERPOL emphasized the significance of refining mitigation strategies to address cyber transgressions effectively. They said Binances expertise and resources will play a vital role in this joint effort, ensuring a safer digital environment for all. Binance believes in the importance of taking on a holistic and collaborative approach to maintaining cybersecurity, Jarek Jakubcek, Head of Law Enforcement Training at Binance, said. Binance is honored to be taking on a leading role in shaping a safer digital landscape through the sharing of expertise required to address cyber threats and cryptocurrency-related crimes. Binances commitment to cybersecurity extends beyond its partnership with INTERPOL. In 2023, the exchanges specialized teams organized and delivered over 120 seminars, workshops, and training sessions. These initiatives aimed to empower investigators with a comprehensive understanding of the crypto space and equip them with the practical skills necessary to address crypto-related threats. As the adoption of digital assets continues to rise, we inevitably start witnessing more crimes in the digital space, Horest Au Yeung, a representative from INTERPOL, said. It is, therefore, crucial to hold more cross-collaborations between industry experts such as Binance and the law enforcement community to facilitate information sharing and refine mitigation strategies to tackle this emergent type of cyber transgressions effectively. Binance Pushes for Global Expansion Last month, Binance unveiled its joint venture crypto exchange Binance Thailand, which came in collaboration with Gulf Innova, a subsidiary of Gulf Energy Development. Binance Thailand, abbreviated as Binance TH, provides a platform for digital asset exchange services with Thai baht trading pairs. It has also integrated with local banks in Thailand and forged a partnership with Binance Kazakhstan for brokerage services, all under the watchful supervision of Thailands SEC. The move came as Binance.US and its global parent company, Binance, have faced regulatory scrutiny in recent months. In June, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) initiated an enforcement action against them, alleging the sale of unregistered securities. The SEC lawsuit named Binance founder Changpeng Zhao as one of the defendants, accusing him of controlling Binance.US despite claiming it operated independently. In November, Zhao stepped down as CEO and pleaded guilty to an anti-money laundering violation, agreeing to pay a $50 million fine. Binance, as a company, also settled with the Justice Department, the Treasury Department, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, and the Office of Foreign Assets Control, paying a hefty $4.3 billion in penalties. Terming the Haldwani riot unfortunate, the Bharatiya Janata Party State president Mahendra Bhatt has appealed to all to maintain peace. He said that those who intend to mar the atmosphere with encroachment and illegal constructions will not be tolerated. Those who indulge in politics of supporting such illegal actions need to change their view in the interests of the State, he said. Interacting with the media a day after rioters ran amok in Haldwani resulting in the death of five persons and several sustaining injuries, Bhatt termed the violence unfortunate and the work of anti-social elements. He requested all citizens to maintain peace and cooperate in maintaining law and order. The BJP State president said, It is known to all that action against encroachments is being taken in the State on the directions of the court. The BJP government will not tolerate those who indulge in encroachment and mar the atmosphere of the State. The manner in which the personnel of the administration, police and media were attacked in Vanbhulpura is highly deplorable. The strictest legal action should be taken against the accused culprits and those who supported them directly or indirectly. The people of Uttarakhand trust that the State government under chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami will teach a lesson to each of the culprits involved in this incident so that nobody can dare to indulge in such acts in the future, he said. He further said that the BJP has been clear on its stand that such encroachments and illegal constructions are part of the conspiracy to mar the atmosphere of the State and change its demography. The opposition parties encouraged such activities for their vote bank politics and facilitated illegal settlements of a large number of people from outside the State. However, the BJP is committed to maintain the cultural identity of Uttarakhand and remove illegal encroachments from its lands. This is why action against encroachment is being taken under the guidance of the court and the public is fully supporting the government in this. The riot in Haldwani has clearly shown how dangerous such encroachments can be for the law and order situation and demographic balance. All political parties should now support the government in the interests of the State, Bhatt said. Hry CM approves 10 new projects under Rural Augmentation Water Supply programme Chandigarh: Haryana Government on Thursday decided to implement 10 new projects worth more than Rs 56.36 crore under Rural Augmentation Water Supply programme in 6 districts namely Sirsa, Hisar, Palwal, Mahendragarh, Jhajjar and Rewari. Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar accorded administrative approval for these projects to be implemented by the Public Health Engineering Department here in Chandigarh. Punjab Speaker advocates diverse job opportunities to empower states youth Chandigarh: Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan on Thursday convened discussions with experts and officials to promote various occupations, including animal husbandry, fish husbandry, horse husbandry, dog husbandry, and dairy-related ventures. During a meeting held with representatives from the Animal Husbandry Department and Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences Universitys Vice-Chancellor, Sandhwan underscored the significance of encouraging interested youth and farmers to explore occupations in these sectors. He highlighted the potential for individuals to lead fulfilling lives by embracing opportunities within animal-related industries. Acknowledging the concerns raised by MLAs regarding the need to promote auxiliary occupations in agriculture, Sandhwan emphasized the importance of providing special attention to these sectors to address the employment needs of the region effectively. Majithia demands CBI probe into resignation of RERA chairman Chandigarh: Demanding CBI probe into the resignation of Punjab Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) chairman Satya Gopal one year after his appointment, senior SAD leader Bikram Singh Majithia on Thursday said: There are reports that he was forced to resign after his personal assistant was questioned by the Enforcement Directorate. Asserting that former Delhi bureaucrat Satya was AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwals blue-eyed boy, Majithia said that he was appointed for a period of five years and his resignation after little over one year months in the job indicates there is more than meets the eye. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann should also clarify why the former bureaucrat was shunted out in this manner, said Majithia, adding that Satya was acting like a money collection agent of AAP. Directions issued to expedite all levels of promotions in Pb Social Security Dept Chandigarh: Punjab Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr Baljit Kaur on Thursday instructed to expedite all levels of promotions in the Social Security Department. The Minister convened a meeting with department officials to accelerate employee promotions. She ordered swift resolution of pending promotion cases, including those from clerks and data entry operators to senior assistants, anganwadi workers to supervisors and supervisors to CDPOs. Nangal-Bhakra shuttle train, carrying BBMB workers, derails, no casualty Nangal Dam: The Nangal-Bhakra train, run by Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), derailed on Thursday on the way from Nangal to Bhakra near Nehla village. No casualties are reported. The train runs between Nangal and Bhakra twice a day and carries BBMB employees working at Bhakra Dam. The police reached the spot and BBMB authorities are taking stock of reasons for the derailment. Punjab Mahila Congress state executive meeting held Chandigarh: All India Mahila Congresss president Alka Lamba, addressing Punjab Mahila Congress State Executive Meeting on Thursday, stressed the importance of Nari Nyay an initiative to amplify the voices of marginalized women. Lamba highlighted the diminishing role of women under BJP rule, urging for collective action to reclaim rights. Emphasizing the essential role of Mahila Congress in bolstering grassroots support, Punjab Congress president Amrinder Singh Raja Warring lauded the efforts of party workers. Warring pledged unwavering support to Mahila Congress, recognizing its pivotal role in electoral success. Punjab Mahila Congress head Gursharan Kaur Randhawa expressed gratitude to attendees, affirming continued advocacy for women's rights. International Animation Day celebrations at citys various colleges Chandigarh: Association Internationale du Film dAnimation International Animated Film Association (ASIFA), Chandigarh Chapter, and Chandigarh Design School, powered by SXILL (School of Experience Illusion and Life Learnings), on Thursday organized International Animation Day event at Post-Graduate College for Girls at Sector 11. Earlier, a similar event was held at PG College at Sector-46 as well as PG College for Girls at Sector 42 on January 31 and February 1, 2024, respectively; and at Government College for Arts Sector 10 in October 2023. The event is aimed at creating awareness of animation careers amongst students. Hry Govt seeks feedback on online transfer policy amendment Chandigarh: Haryana Chief Secretary Sanjeev Kaushal on Thursday said that the State Government has decided to amend its Online Transfer Policy, 2020, with the aim of streamlining the process of employee transfers. The objective is to ensure equitable distribution of employees of a particular cadre at different places in a fair and transparent manner and to maximize job satisfaction among employees to improve departmental performance. Kaushal stated that to achieve this objective, the government has initiated a consultation process with Administrative Secretaries and Heads of Departments in Haryana. The State Government has invited views and suggestions from all concerned stakeholders before finalizing the amendment. Administrative Secretaries and Heads of Departments are requested to submit their feedback on the draft amendment within 15 days. Schedule for elections of Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee withdrawn Chandigarh: The schedule for the elections of the "Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee," which was issued on Wednesday, was withdrawn on Thursday. Haryana Gurdwara Election Commissioner Justice (retd) HS Bhalla stated that the Director of Secondary Education Department of Haryana has written a letter requesting them to withdraw the schedule of elections of the HSGMC. In the letter, it has been mentioned that the schedule of the elections falls between the annual examinations of the tenth and twelfth classes conducted by the CBSE and the Haryana School Education Board. Bhalla informed that while accepting the request, the schedule of the elections has been withdrawn in the interest of the students. In budget 2024-25, provisions to be made for allocating Rs 25-25 crore for each assembly constituency: Dy CM Chandigarh: Haryana Deputy Chief Minister Dushyant Chautala on Thursday said that in the general budget of the year 2024, an allocation of Rs. 25-25 crore will be made for each assembly constituency to give more impetus to development. Chief secretary Radha Raturi reached the violence affected areas of Haldwani on Friday to take stock of the situation after riots broke out in the Vanbhulpura area of the city. She also visited the Vanbhulpura police station which was also attacked by rioters who attempted to burn the building when police personnel were in it. She issued strict instructions to the district administration and police officers to maintain law and order by taking the safety and peace of the general public as the top priority. Raturi also visited the Sushila Tiwari hospital and met the injured and inquired about their health. The chief secretary also held a high level meeting with the deputy inspector general of police (Kumaon), Nainital district magistrate, the senior superintendent of police and other senior officials to review the situation. Talking to media persons during her Haldwani visit, the chief secretary said that the situation is under control and normal. Strict action will be taken against the culprits, she said. Apart from the affected area of Vanbhulpura, teams of the district administration and police have been deployed to ensure that such incidents do not happen in other areas. She praised the general public for maintaining peace in the area. Stating that the chief minister is also constantly monitoring the situation, Raturi appealed to the public to avoid rumours and maintain peace. The officiating director general of police Abhinav Kumar, Nainital district magistrate Vandana, DIG Yogendra Rawat, SSP PN Meena and other officials were also present along with the chief secretary. Delhi reverberated with the echoes of the Chandigarh Mayoral Election controversy on Thursday as Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann made a resounding appearance at Jantar Mantar, denouncing what he termed as an assault on federalism by the BJP-led Centre. Amidst a spirited protest organized by the Kerala Government, Mann voiced his concerns over the purported misuse of gubernatorial authority in opposition-governed states to impede governmental functions. Mann, addressing the gathering, underscored the essence of democratic governance, asserting that only elected representatives possess the mandate to govern. He lamented the necessity of redirecting attention from policymaking to seeking justice, an unforeseen consequence of confronting central authority over rights. Highlighting a recent episode from the Chandigarh Mayoral polls, where the BJP emerged victorious against a Congress-AAP coalition under INDIA bloc, Mann drew attention to alleged irregularities. He cited a discrepancy in the vote count, claiming a purported scam that marred nearly a quarter of the votes cast. With impending Lok Sabha elections in sight, Mann warned against complacency, urging vigilance over the integrity of the electoral process. Manns presence alongside AAP supremo and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan besides other prominent leaders underscored a unified stance against perceived injustices perpetrated by the BJP-led Central Government. As chants for federal autonomy reverberated, Mann's impassioned plea for upholding democratic principles resonated amidst the charged atmosphere of Jantar Mantar. The Chandigarh Mayoral Election saga unfolded against the backdrop of ongoing tensions between the ruling AAP government in Delhi and the BJP-led Centre. The BJP's triumph in the mayoral polls, where Manoj Sonkar clinched victory over AAP's Kuldeep Kumar, was marred by allegations of electoral malpractice. With 36 votes to be counted, accusations of a 25 per cent discrepancy and the invalidation of eight votes of INDIA bloc raised eyebrows, prompting opposition outcry. In the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation, there are a total of 36 councillors, with 20 belonging to the INDIA bloc, while the BJP has 16 councillors, including one Member of Parliament. During the mayoral elections in Chandigarh, all 16 BJP councillors cast their votes correctly. However, the votes of eight INDIA councillors were invalidated, with claims that they had cast incorrect votesThey had not voted for the first time and usually vote every year, said mann, adding that they had approach the Supreme Court against this. Upon viewing the video evidence, the Supreme Court discovered how the presiding officer invalidated the votes. This incident revealed a 25 per cent discrepancy in counting among the mere 36 votes. If 90 crore votes are counted in May-June (during Lok Sabha elections), what might occur? Chandigarh is a city of 10x10, and BJP is not able to tolerate its defeat in this city, said Mann. Addressing the contentious issue, Mann highlighted the need for transparency and integrity in electoral processes, particularly given the imminent Lok Sabha elections. He alluded to the potential ramifications of electoral misconduct on democratic values, urging for accountability and rectification. Also raising the issue of farmers distress, Mann highlighted the prolonged farmer agitation lasting for a year while lamenting the loss of over 700 lives. Mann also accused the Centre of withholding funds and causing inconvenience, citing instances where they hindered the flow of resources or created obstacles for farmers, such as demanding photos for advertisements. Furthermore, Mann's critique extended beyond electoral irregularities to encompass broader grievances against the Central Government's encroachment on state autonomy. He lamented the prevalent trend of using gubernatorial authority as a tool to stifle opposition-led states, citing instances of interference in governance and administrative affairs. Highlighting the role of governors in opposition-ruled states, Mann asserted that where the BJP is not in power, governors act as agents of the opposition. He criticized these governors for hindering the functioning of state governments, leading to numerous cases reaching the Supreme Court. He also mentioned the withholding of RDF funds, stressing that they will not step back but will assert their rights. The situation in Haldwani remained tense but under control on Friday, a day after riots by members of a particular community which left five dead and several injured. The Nainital district administration confirmed the death toll on Friday. Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami also reached Haldwani a day after the violence and took stock of the situation. Dhami also enquired about the condition of the police personnel, government and municipal corporation employees and the media persons who were injured in the violence which took place in the Vanbhulpura area on Thursday evening. The chief minister said that all the video footage and clues related to those who have broken the law and damaged government property are available. The process of identifying all the miscreants involved in this riot is underway and strict legal action will be taken against them, he stressed. Earlier in Dehradun, the CM held a high-level meeting with senior officials of the State administration and police. In order to ensure peace and law and order in Vanbhulpura area of Haldwani, the CM instructed the additional director general of police (Law and Order) AP Anshuman to camp in the affected area. Taking strict cognisance of the violence and attack on the government employees, the CM has also given instructions to take strict action against the culprits. Dhami also appealed to the local people to maintain peace. He stressed that no one will be allowed to tamper with the law and order in the State. He said that the officials of the administration and police should remain alert at all times to maintain law and order in the area and strive to maintain peace and law and order in every situation. Earlier, the district magistrate Vandana Singh informed the media that five persons had died in the violence which broke out after the authorities started demolishing an illegally constructed Madarsa and Namaz site in the Vanbhulpura area. She said that the rioters had also attempted to burn the police personnel alive in the police station. Strict action was taken by the authorities to clamp down on the rioters. The situation is under control in Haldwani. Meanwhile, internet services, road and rail services were affected in the Haldwani area on Friday. In a significant development aimed at advancing the welfare of rural families, Chief Minister Champai Soren is scheduled to arrive in the city on Friday. He will preside over the distribution of acceptance letters among beneficiaries of the divisional level Abua Housing Scheme, marking a pivotal milestone in the government's commitment to providing permanent housing and basic amenities to houseless families in rural areas. The acceptance letter distribution ceremony, slated to take place on February 9, will witness the participation of beneficiaries from all three districts of Kolhan divisionEast Singhbhum, West Singhbhum, and Seraikela Kharsawan. During the event, Chief Minister Champai Soren will release the first installment of the housing scheme, amounting to thirty thousand rupees, directly into the bank accounts of the beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Preparations for the event are underway, with District Magistrate cum Deputy Commissioner Majunath Bhajantri leading the charge. A meeting was convened to ensure the successful organization of the program, wherein necessary guidelines were provided to officials. Deputy Commissioner Bhajantri emphasized the importance of mutual coordination among officials and directed them to expedite preparations within the stipulated time frame. Key aspects reviewed during the meeting included the maintenance of law and order, arrangements for seating, parking facilities, transportation, mobile toilets, drinking water provision, and overall cleanliness at the venue. Special attention was given to the proper parking of buses carrying beneficiaries from the three districts to ensure smooth ingress and egress. The Abua Housing Scheme, a flagship initiative of the State Government, aims to provide permanent housing solutions to identified rural families. In the first phase, a total of 24,827 beneficiaries, including 8,138 from East Singhbhum, 10,252 from West Singhbhum, and 6,437 from Seraikela Kharsawan, will receive assistance under the scheme in four installments. Furthermore, each beneficiary will receive a total assistance of Rs 2.00 lakh, distributed across four installments, with provisions for toilet construction through convergence with Swachh Bharat Mission Gramin (SBM) or other dedicated sources. Prior to the visit, DC Majunath Bhajantri, Deputy Development Commissioner Manish Kumar, SDM Dhalbhum Piyush Sinha, ADM Law and Order Rajeev Ranjan, SSP Kishore Kaushal inspected Gopal Maidan, the venue of the event. Bhajantri directed the officials to review the number of beneficiaries, ensure proper law and order, seating arrangements, and parking of vehicles during the CMs visit. Not satisfied with reply of Chief Minister over Harda incident, Opposition staged walk out in assembly on Thursday. It demanded either judicial probe or open court enquiry. Earlier after question hour, Opposition moved the adjournment motion on Harda incident. Opposition members expressed apprehension that the casualties could be more as many people are supposed to be missing. Phool Singh Barraiya apprehended that in place of crackers, bombs were being made at the factory. Ramniwas Rawat and some other Congress MLA, said that instead of conducting probe through its own, government shall go for judicial probe or write to centre for open court of inquiry. They also demanded compensation of Rs 1 crore to next kin of victims of Harda blast incidebt. While giving replying to adjournment motion, CM Mohan Yadav said that as far as Harda incident is concerned,no one will be spared. He said that when he saw incident video, it looked that it was blast akin to nuclear blast. Moreover, he was also shocked to see how Shivakashi like factory came up in Madhya Pradesh. Earlier, when the house assembled for the day, Congress MLA RK Dogne from Harda arrived at the legislative assembly on Thursday, wearing a symbolic string of firecrackers. He demanded the formation of a team, including legislators and journalists, to investigate the entire incident. MLA RK Dogne from Harda wore a string of firecrackers and arrived at the legislative assembly. He stood in front of Mahatma Gandhi's statue to register his protest and demanded the formation of a team comprising legislators and journalists to investigate the incident. He also emphasized the need to open the warehouse for inspection as a significant number of people were present at the scene, and investigations were halted after the Chief Minister returned. The death toll in blast at a firecracker factory in Harda reached 12 on Thursday after the body of an unidentified woman was found from a home near the site, while seven persons continue to be missing. A massive blast and subsequent blaze on Tuesday levelled a firecracker unit, leaving 11 dead at the time and more than 200 injured. "The toll in the tragedy has reached 12 after the body of an unidentified woman was found in a house adjoining the blast site," Harda Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) HP Singh said. More than 200 persons were injured, of which 90 were discharged after treatment while 45 have been referred to hospitals in Bhopal, Indore and Naramadpuram, he said. The rest are being treated in the Harda district hospital, Singh added. Additional District Magistrate Sadanand Gauda said seven persons have been reported missing by the families following the incident. Meanwhile, officials said door-to-door search of houses in the area was continuing, with five sacks of firecrackers being found in one of them. A team is also assessing damage to the houses in the vicinity so that residents can get assistance at the earliest, the officials said. "Four centres have been set up to extend help to families affected due to this incident," an official informed. The incident has led to a war of words between the BJP government in the state and the opposition Congress, which claimed figures of those dead and injured were higher than those quoted by officials. MP Congress president Jitu Patwari, who visited the site on Wednesday, had called it a "government-induced crime" and had demanded that Chief Minister Mohan Yadav order registration of murder cases against officials allegedly responsible for the incident. The Congress had walked out of the Assembly on Thursday after expressing dissatisfaction at the CM's statement that his government would not spare the guilty. Bhanu Pratap Prasad, a sub-inspector in the Jharkhand Revenue Department, who allegedly worked along with the land mafia, and was arrested by the probe agency under Section 19 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) was produced in PMLA Court after his four day remand expired. The ED counsel pleaded for extension of remand stating the need for interrogation by the ED. The court after hearing the arguments from both the sides extended the remand for four more days. The Enforcement Directorate on Saturday arrested a Jharkhand cop who allegedly assisted former Chief Minister Hemant Soren in acquiring 'illegal land. Hemant Soren, who is currently in Enforcement Directorate's custody, illegally acquired and possessed land parcels of approximately 8.5 acres with the help of Pratap, who has connections with the land mafia in Jharkhand, sources said. Hemant Soren was arrested by the probe agency in a money laundering case linked to the alleged land case. An investigation by the Enforcement Directorate revealed several chats and cash transaction from Bhanun Pratap's phone indicating that Hemant Soren received illicit benefits in the acquisition of land parcels. The conversations extracted from Prasad's phone have "exposed" Hemant Soren's direct involvement in the land scam under investigation. The agency's probe further unveiled that Bhanu Prasad played an active role in conspiring to unlawfully acquire properties, collaborating with Hemant Soren and others in the process, sources said. According to the probe agency, Bhanu Prasad had himself conducted physical verification of these lands on the orders of the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) that were conveyed to him via the circle officer. "Hemant Soren is knowingly a party with Bhanu Pratap Prasad in the activities connected with concealment of the original records for projecting the property acquired by him in an illegal manner as an untainted property. Further, the process or the activity connected with the acquisition, possession and use of proceeds of crime by projecting it as untainted property is a continuing activity and is continuing as on day as he is still directly enjoying the said proceeds of crime by its possession, occupation and use by claiming it as untainted property," the Enforcement Directorate's investigation claimed. Box Bail plea hearing of Amit Aggarwal The hearing on the bail plea of Amit Kumar Aggarwal, accused in the scam of illegal purchase and sale of army land at Bariatu, was held in the Jharkhand High Court on Friday. In the case, the court of Justice SN Prasad of the High Court reserved its decision in the matter after completing the arguments of both the parties. Actually, the ED court had rejected the bail plea of Amit Kumar Aggarwal, after which he has filed a petition for bail in the High Court. In the case related to the purchase and sale of 4.55 acres of Army occupied land located in Bariatu, ED has arrested former Deputy Commissioner of Ranchi Chhavi Ranjan, businessman Vishnu Aggarwal, Revenue Sub Inspector of Badgai Zone Bhanu Pratap Prasad, fake Rayat Pradeep Bagchi, land businessman. Chargesheet has been filed against Officer Ali, Imtiaz Khan, Talha Khan, Faiyaz Khan and Mohammad Saddam, Amit Aggarwal and Dilip Ghosh. ED has registered ECIR 1/2023 regarding the matter. Acting sternly against the criminals, the Jalandhar Commissionerate Police led by Commissioner of Police Swapan Sharma has arrested eight gangsters of Lawrence Bishnoi gang, with weapons, involved in extortion, ransom, threat and other criminal activities. Jalandhar Commissioner of Police on Thursday said that on January 27, 2024, owner of Karma Fashion Showroom received an extortion call demanding a substantial sum of Rs 50 lakhs. Swinging into action, the Commissionerate Police registered FIR, dated January 29, 2024, under sections 387, 34 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), 25-54-59 of the Arms Act at Police Station Division 4 Jalandhar, and started investigation into the matter, he said. Sharma said that during the investigation, it became evident that the gang members had systematically gathered information about industrialists and businessmen, using this knowledge to extort money. He said that based on investigation, the Police arrested eight gangsters identified as Sanjay Bawa, Deepak Kumar alias Deepak, Gajinder Rajpurat alias Gajju, Radhe, Abhishek Gill, Pappu, Manoj, and Deepak Kumar alias Deepak all from Jalandhar. All these gangsters have been arrested from Dhobi Ghat near TV Tower Jalandhar and one Pistol 30 bore with five cartridges, one pistol 32 bore with five Cartridge, one desi katta 315 bore, four magazines, one Splendor Motorcycle and two Scooter (Activa) have been recovered from them, said Sharma. The Commissioner added that during investigations, it came into light that the operations of these gangsters extended beyond national borders, with identified links to Suraj, currently residing in England. Giving details of the modus operandi of the gang, the Commissioner said that the gang was involved in life-threatening calls and letters to extract money from people. He said that investigations with a major thrust on fetching details about the international number used for extortion calls is already going on. Sharma said that no criminal background of all the eight gangsters have been traced so far but a detailed investigation is already going on. Ethiopia Emerges As New Bitcoin Mining Hotspot Will it Last? Ethiopia is growing popular for Bitcoin mining after China ejected the industry from its borders in 2021. Following the ban, Chinas biggest players scattered across the globe searching for new locations that would respect their energy-intensive business practices. That journey led many to arrive in Africa last spring when cargo containers carrying powerful mining computers started appearing near electricity substations connected to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. Ethiopia Embraces Bitcoin Mining Despite having banned the actual trading of cryptocurrencies, Ethiopia gave the green light to Bitcoin mining operations starting in 2022. In crypto terms, mining is the process where new units of Bitcoin enter circulation, and the underlying blockchain is secured. Miners consume lots of power to compete for new BTC, making electricity a core cost of their business. And Ethiopia boasts some of the lowest electricity costs worldwide. Its also an especially attractive spot for Chinese businesses. The nation has increased ties to China over the past ten years, with many Chinese companies contributing to the construction of the $4.8 billion dam that will power the miners. Compared to other power-consuming industries, mining stands out for being both demand-agnostic and location-agnostic. For those reasons, miners can prioritize cheap power sources above all else, irrespective of geography considerations or inconsistency of supply. Norway, for example, powered about 1% of the worlds Bitcoin miners in 2021, almost exclusively using hydropower. Ethiopia will become one of the most popular destinations for Chinese miners, Nuo Xu, founder of China Digital Mining Association told Bloomberg. Similar to Ethiopia, Russia has also opened its arms to Bitcoin mining but banned using cryptocurrency in other waysnamely as a means of payment. Risks Of Bitcoin Mining The costs and benefits of welcoming miners within ones borders are difficult for regulators to calculate. While a potentially great source of earnings, miners can also strain electricity grids during times of peak demand. Kazakhstan and Iran, for example, were once world leaders in Bitcoin mining before turning against the industry because of its power consumption. Firstly, countries can run out of available electricity, leaving no room for miners to expand, Hashlabs Mining CEO Jaran Mellerud said. Secondly, miners can suddenly be deemed unwelcome by the government and be forced to pack up and leave. A day after an unsuccessful bid to march to the Parliament, protesting farmers were Friday back outside offices of local authorities in Noida and Greater Noida for a sit-in. The protestors, led by the Bharatiya Kisan Parishad (BKP), said they will continue the protest as before and once again attempt to march to Delhi after the Budget Session of Parliament is over. Their decision came after a meeting with police and the district administration, which, they said, did not yield any outcome. The meeting, however, yielded no result. Bracing for another agitation by farmers, police are fortifying the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh and Delhi-Haryana borders with barricades and deploying more than 5,000 security personnel, a senior police officer said here on Friday. On Thursday, thousands of farmers from around 100 villages of Noida and Greater Noida on Thursday took to the streets seeking hiked compensation for lands acquired by the government, bringing traffic to a standstill in several parts of Delhi-NCR as they made an unsuccessful bid to march towards Parliament. Several farmer associations, mostly from Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab, have called for another protest on February 13 to demand a law guaranteeing a minimum support price (MSP), one of the conditions they had set when they agreed to withdraw their agitation against the now repealed farm laws in 2021. Besides a legal guarantee for an MSP, the farmers are also demanding implementation of the Swaminathan Commission's recommendations, pensions for farmers and farm labourers, farm debt waiver, withdrawal of police cases and "justice" for victims of the Lakhimpur Kheri violence. "We are in contact with our counterparts in Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh to know how many farmer organisations will join the protest and the number of expected people. After a proper review, we will chalk out a plan to ensure law and order situation," said another senior police officer. Farmer leader Rakesh Tikait on Thursday joined the protesters in Greater Noida where his Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) members have been protesting outside the local authority office. The BJP on Friday said its Gaon Chalo Abhiyan will prove to be a milestone in increasing its vote share, with lakhs of party workers reaching out to the voters across all villages in the country under the campaign seeking their support in the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections. Addressing a press conference here, BJP national general secretary Dushyant Gautam said the party has formed 12 lakh 'tolis' (teams) of its workers to drive the campaign across all villages falling under 12 lakh units created by the party in rural India to achieve its goal. The BJP has also appointed 12 lakh workers as its convenors to ensure proper implementation of the party's poll strategy in their respective units, he said. As many as 12 lakh party workers have been assigned to monitor and oversee the implementation of the party's campaign in coordination with their respective teams, Gautam said, adding they will camp in their respective units to ensure effective implementation of the party's poll strategy under the campaign. During their pravaas', these party workers will reach every voter, every household, he told reporters at the BJP headquarters here sharing details of the campaign. Gautam said the party's Gaon Chalo Abhiyan, which started on February 4 to conclude on February 11, will continue till the Lok Sabha elections are held. BJP president JP Nadda had launched a workshop of the party workers last month ahead of the launch of the party's 'Gaon Chalo Abhiyan'. This Abhiyan will prove to be a milestone with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president JP Nadda setting the target of increasing the party's vote share to 10 per cent in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, Gautam said. With this campaign, we will reach at least 36 crore voters, he added. The INDI Alliance has demanded the immediate removal and suspension of the district magistrate and Senior Superintendent of Police of Nainital for their failure to prevent the Haldwani riot. The alliance has termed the Haldwani violence as highly deplorable and a distressing incident. A meeting of the alliance was held in the state headquarters of Congress party on Friday in which its leaders made an appeal to maintain communal harmony and peace. The leaders claimed that the unfortunate incident has occurred because of the laxity of the administration, apathetic attitude of the government and the failure of the local intelligence. The INDIA bloc also demanded immediate suspension of the DM and SSP of Nainital. The alliance will organise a prayer meeting in front of the statue of Mahatma Gandhi on February 10. The speakers in the meeting said that the Haldwani incident is an administrative failure. They said that the administration and the government deliberately created such a situation which resulted in the incident. The leaders said that the general public, journalists and police personnel have been injured in the incident. The leaders were of the view that no one should be allowed to tamper with the law and the administration should take necessary steps to prevent repetition of such incidents in future. The leaders also criticised the BJP for engaging in petty politics on the issue. The leaders demanded that the government should order a judicial probe in the incident and take punitive action on those responsible for the incident. The alliance leaders said that hearing on a petition in the Malik farm case is scheduled on February 14 and the action taken by the administration on February 8 was done in haste and raises questions. The vice president (organisation) Mathura Dutt Joshi, chief spokesperson Garima Dasauni, Communist Party of India (CPI) leader Samar Bhandari, CPI M leader RS Negi, CPI ML leader Indresh Maikhuri, AAP leader Uma Sisodia, Nirmala Bisht from Mahila Manch and others attended the meeting. Under the Naxal eradication campaign in Madhya Pradesh, continuous action is being taken against Naxalites. In this sequence, Hawkforce of Madhya Pradesh Police has got success. During the anti-Naxal operation, on February 8, a joint team of Cobra 207 and Hawkforce, which was searching in Chakarwaha forest area under Garhi police station area of Balaghat district, had an encounter with Naxalites. Due to retaliatory action by Cobra 207 and Hawkforce, the Naxalites fled into the dense forest. No Cobra 207 or Hawkforce personnel were injured in this encounter. Cooker bombs made with the aim of causing harm to the police force were seized from the Naxalites. Apart from this, the searching team also recovered a large quantity of daily items, medicines etc. used by Naxalites. The search team is searching for Naxalites in the forests. Cobra 207 and Hawkforce received information about the presence of 15 to 20 Maoists in Chakarwaha forest area under Garhi police station area. As part of the anti-Naxal operation, a joint search team of Cobra 207 and Hawkforce went out in search of Maoists in the forest. On February 8, around 9 am, during the search and area domination operation in Chakarwaha forest area, Maoists opened fire on the searching party. Retaliatory firing was also done by the police searching party. Fearing retaliation, the Maoists fled into the dense forest. After the incident, a search was conducted at the spot by the Hawk Force party. Cooker bombs, Naxal tents, batteries, wires, medicines, axe, cooking utensils, tarpaulin and other items of daily use in huge quantity have been recovered from here, causing economic and strategic loss to the Naxalites. At present intensive searching is being done by additional security forces in the entire area. Three major actions have been taken in the year 2023 under the anti-Naxal campaigns being run by Madhya Pradesh Police to eradicate Naxalism in the Naxal-affected districts of the state. In these actions, Hawkforce has neutralized 4 hardcore Naxalites including 2 female Naxalites. A reward of Rs 14 lakh each was jointly announced by the governments of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh on all these Naxalites. Apart from this, in August 2023, Madhya Pradesh Police arrested SZCM Ashok Reddy alias Baldev, in-charge of mass organization of North Bastar and RKB Division, along with his wife ACM Remati from Jabalpur city. Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) president Harjinder Singh Dhami on Thursday appealed to the Gurdwara Elections Commissioner to revise the voter list before initiating the election process to the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (HSGMC). Dhami cited several irregularities, including the addition of non-Sikhs in the list and not putting up pictures of voters in the voting list. Dhami, addressing a press conference, said that the election schedule to the HSGMC has been announced in haste without holding any meeting with political parties. No provision has been kept to register political parties for allocation of symbols for the election and that this is being seen as an attempt to deny registration to the representative body of the Sikhs the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD)This should be corrected, he added. SGPC president said that perusal of few voting lists had revealed a large number of non-Sikh names who were not eligible to vote for the Gurdwara elections. Besides, pictures of the voters have not been included in the voter list which would make it difficult to identify genuine voters and could result in malpractices, he added. Dhami also pointed out that only 390 booths had been earmarked in the entire State for casting of votes in the elections, which means voters, from an average of 20 villages, will vote in one designated booththis would inconvenience the voters greatly. Senior SAD leader Daljit Singh Cheema said that the Gurdwara Election process in Haryana should be set in motion only after considering all the objections of the Sikh Sangat. Also raising the issue of reconstitution of Sri Hazur Sahib Board, Dhami said that the SGPC had lodged its protest against the Maharashtra Chief Minister. The number of nominated members in the Board has been increased from two to 12 even as the SGPCs representation in the Board has been reduced from four to two which amounts to a government takeover of the Board a move condemned by the entire Sikh Sangat, said Dhami, while appealing to the Maharashtra Government to withdraw the decision immediately in keeping with the sentiments of the Sikh community. Stating that there should not be any government interference in the religious affairs of the Sikh community which should be allowed to manage their shrines in time honoured fashion, Cheema also appealed to the Maharashtra Cabinet to withdraw its order reconstituting the HSGMC. POLLS TO 3 ODISHA RAJYA SABHA SEATS ON FEB 27 Bhubaneswar: A notification for elections to three Rajya Sabha seats from Odisha was issued on Thursday. The polling will be held on February 27 between 9 am and 4 pm. The counting of votes will be conducted on the very day at 5 pm. The last date for filing nominations is February 15. Notably, BJP MP Ashwini Vaishnaw and BJD MPs Amar Patnaik and Prashanta Nanda are set to retire in April. ROYAL BENGAL TIGER FOUND DEAD IN SIMILIPAL Bhubaneswar: A male Royal Bengal Tiger has been found dead in the Similipal Tiger Reserve. On February 5, a patrolling team spotted the carcass of the tiger at Duduruchampa. The age of the animal is estimated to be 3.5 years, said Regional Chief Conservator of Forest, Similipal, Prakash Chand Gogineni on Thursday. The cause of the death is yet to be ascertained. A team conducted samples while the postmortem was conducted on February 6 as per guidelines. The samples will be sent for examination to know the exact reason of death, he said. ANUBHAV GETS DECREE OF DIVORCE FROM VARSHA Bhubaneswar: Actor-turned-politician Anubhav Mohanty on Wednesday received decree of divorce after ten years of marriage with actress Varsha Priyadarshini. Taking to microblogging platform X, Mohanty shared a photo of the court order describing the ten years of marriage as worthless, meaningless, heartless, painful and false. Got my decree of divorce today, which is just a day before the completion of 10 worthless/ meaningless/ heartless/ painful & above all, false marital years of my false marriage! I pray for her happiness. No Offence. Mohanty posted. 15 WB TOURISTS INJURED IN BUS ACCIDENT IN BALESWAR Baleswar: As many as 15 tourists from West Bengal were injured when a bus they were traveling in collided with a dumper and veered into a roadside farmland along NH-60 near Nidhipanda in Baleswar district early on Thursday morning. Around 65 tourists were returning home after visiting Puri. The accident occurred as a tyre of the bus burst. The driver lost control over the vehicle, resulting in it careening into a farmland after colliding with a dumper. The victims were admitted to the District Headquarters Hospital. In a concerted effort to foster awareness about the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and instill a sense of global citizenship, the Department of Mass Communication at Karim City College organized a capacity-building workshop today. The event, held in collaboration with prominent social organizations Nishchay and Rubaru, aimed at educating students on the importance of mutual harmony and coordination among the people of India to achieve the global goals of happiness and peace. Tarun Kumar from Nishchay organization, serving as the workshop instructor, introduced over 40 Mass Communication students to all 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Emphasis was placed on sensitizing participants to societal fractures stemming from differences like religion, caste, and class. The workshop featured interactive sessions where students were encouraged to ask questions and engage in discussions on various topics related to the SDGs. Participants were divided into groups, where they passionately presented their views on crucial issues such as quality education, health, poverty, justice, and gender equality. To deepen understanding, students assumed roles such as disabled individuals, farmers, and villagers, gaining insight into the challenges faced by different segments of society. A DNA film was screened to convey the message that the source of life for all human beings is the same. Dr. Neha Tiwari, head of the Mass Communication Department, outlined the purpose of the workshop and assigned students the task of creating a one-page newspaper, which will undergo future review. College Principal Dr. Mohammad Riaz extended special congratulations to the Mass Communication Department for the success of the workshop. Dr. Rashmi Kumari from the department was present, along with Sajid Parvez and Shahzeb Parvez, who played pivotal roles in organizing the program. In her opening remarks, Dr. Neha Tiwari emphasized the need for such workshops to cultivate a holistic understanding of global challenges among the students. The active participation and enthusiasm displayed by the students were commendable, reflecting a commitment to shaping responsible and informed individuals. The success of this workshop underscores Karim City College's dedication to nurturing socially aware and responsible professionals in the field of Mass Communication. The engaging activities and discussions held during the session are expected to resonate with the students, promoting a deeper understanding of their roles in achieving sustainable development. Delhi Lt Governor(LG)Vinai Kumar Saxena has sanctioned a CBI Inquiry under Prevention of Corruption (POC) Act, 1988, against Raj Kumar, the then Superintendent of Jail No. 4, Tihar Jail, for aiding former Delhi Minister and AAP Leader, Satyendar Jain in allegedly extorting Rs. 10 crore from Sukash Chandrashekhar, who was then also lodged in Tihar Jail. Raj Kumar allegedly helped the high profile extortion racket being run from Tihar Jail, which extorted and received money from Chandrashekhar, as protection money, so as to enable him to live peacefully and comfortably in Jail. The matter is being investigated by the CBI and the request for prosecution sanction had come to the LG, who is the competent authority in the matter, through the Directorate of Vigilance (DoV), GNCTD. Jain and ex-Jail Superintendent Raj Kumar have been accused of extorting a large sum of money from high profile prisoners, including conman Sukash Chandrashekhar in exchange for protection in jails. The Tihar jail is under the AAP governments jurisdiction. CBI is probing the charges made by Sukash that Jain had extorted and received Rs 10 crore from Sukash Chandrashekhar in various tranches during 2018-21 either personally or through his accomplices, including Raj Kumar, as protection money so as to enable Sukash to live peacefully and comfortably in different jails of Delhi (Tihar, Rohini and Mandoli). Raj Kumar was a close associate of Sandeep Goel and aided him in extorting money from Chandrashekhar and even himself tried to extort money from the conman through PayTM mode. Goel and Mukesh Prasad are also accused of receiving Rs 12.50 crore in various tranches during 2019-22 from Sukash Chandrashekhar. Jain, Goel, Prasad and Kumar are accused of misusing their official positions as public servants in extending undue favour to Sukash Chandrashekhar and other high-profile inmates in Delhi Jails in lieu valuable considerations. The CBI claimed that it had proof that Satyendar Jain allegedly extorted and received money from Chandrashekar in various tranches to enable the alleged conman to live a peaceful and comfortable life in jail. The Chhattisgarh Police on Thursday arrested a 28-year-old man here and seized 4.31 grams of a psychoactive drug, MDMA, valued at Rs 50,000. Raipur Additional Superintendent of Police (Urban) Lakhan Patle identified him as Deepankaj Mohanti of Koriya district. He was nabbed near a flyover in Shankar Nagar when he was looking for customers to sell it. He told the police that his accomplice Akash Bhardwaj sent it via courier from New Delhi. Efforts are on to nab Bhardwaj. Distinguished naturalist and accomplished bird photographer, A.K. Sahay, hailing from Dhanbad, is currently making waves in Jamshedpur with his impactful nature education campaign in schools and colleges. This commendable initiative is conducted under the auspices of the Indian Bird Photography Society (IBPS). During his present visit, Sahay has already made enlightening visits to two prominent institutions NML Kerala Public School and Netaji Subhash University. His upcoming engagements include Shrinath University and Cooperative College. The crux of this educational campaign involves the display of high-quality bird images captured by Sahay during his extensive travels across the country. To engage the students further, a quiz based on bird-related questions has been incorporated into the program. The responsibility of being the quiz master has been entrusted to a local talent, Kishor Kumar. Winners of the quiz are not only rewarded with prizes but also receive a coveted certificate of merit signed by Sahay and the respective institution's principal, adding a significant stamp of recognition to their achievements. In his impactful speeches, Sahay underscores the pivotal role of birds in maintaining ecological balance and contributing to the augmentation of vegetation cover. Birds play a crucial part in dispersing seeds and saplings of trees, as well as in controlling the population of insects. The campaign has garnered earnest support from Dr. Raju Kumar, the Director of Environmental Etiquette, and his team member Abhishek Bharti, a skilled youngster proficient in PowerPoint presentations and event moderation. Sahay shared that he is carrying out this initiative in line with the instructions of the late Abdul Kalam, who had encouraged him to conduct nature education campaigns in schools and colleges across the country. This campaign has already covered more than 25 institutions in Jharkhand and Tamil Nadu, including prestigious ones like IIT Madras and St. Xavier's College, Ranchi. The response from students has been encouraging, with active participation and enthusiastic answers to the quiz, showcasing the positive impact of Sahay's nature education campaign. UN Expert Panel Investigate $3B Worth North Korean Crypto Cyberattacks: Report An independent United Nations jury of sanctions monitors is conducting a probe into North Koreas involvement in $3 billion worth cyberattacks on crypto firms. According to an unpublished UN report reviewed by Reuters, the monitors accused the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK) for flouting Security Council sanctions. They are investigating several suspected cyberattacks worth $3 billion on crypto firms, which DPRK used to develop nuclear weapons program. The panel is investigating 58 suspected DPRK cyberattacks on cryptocurrency-related companies between 2017 and 2023, valued at approximately $3 billion, which reportedly help fund DPRKs WMD development. North Korean Hackers Stole Millions in Crypto Per a recent report by TRM Labs, North Korea-linked hackers stole $200 million worth cryptos from January to Aug. 2023. This accounted for over 20% of all stolen crypto last year, the blockchain intelligent firm added. Further, this has resulted in funding the countrys nuclear and ballistic missile programs. The TRM report sees the move as North Koreas pivot from traditional revenue-generating activities. Nick Carlsen, intelligence analyst at TRM Labs stressed that DPRK is looking for every dollar they can. And this is just obviously a much more efficient way for North Korea to make money. The UN has slapped DPRK with multiple sanctions since the countrys first nuclear test in 2006. The sanctions include ban on financial services, minerals and metals, limiting North Koreas access to sources of funding. Additionally, blockchain analytics company Chainalysis data revealed that 2022 was the biggest year ever for crypto hacking. A whopping $3.8 billion was stolen from crypto businesses, primarily by North Korea-linked attackers, said Chainalysis. Another research early this year noted that cyber-espionage groups are using various tactics to acquire large amounts of crypto assets. Reuters noted that the UN report will be released later this month or by early next month, according to diplomats. The report noted that the panel investigated on several North Korean nationals that are working overseas. They also said North Korea continues to access the international financial system and engage in illicit financial operations, which are against the UN Security Council resolutions, it added. Ruling party in the State Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), on Friday attacked the State Governor and said that the Governor has been made to save a person from the State from the investigation. The party said that the States SIT is better than CBI and the Government get the paper leak case investigated from it because uestions are being raised on the credibility of CBI. Addressing a press meet JMM General Secretary cum Spokesperson, Supriyo Bhattacharya said that there is a saying in Hindi Daadhi me tinka, it seems like truth right now. It came to light from the media that the Governor had called some media. Clarification has also been sought from a media house. Many things have been said. The Governor told a news agency that Hemant Soren had been taken into custody by the ED, after which Hemant Soren had come to Raj Bhavan to resign. While responding to the Governor's statement, he added. He also said that when ED informed about the detention, everyone reached Raj Bhavan and two buses were given permission to enter Raj Bhavan. Within a short time, after going inside the Raj Bhavan, everyone was thrown out, saying that permission was not given. The current CM had claimed to form the Government from the Governor, then rejecting his claim, the Governor had gone towards his chamber. Came again after 15 minutes, then accepted the claim. The next day, the Principal Secretary to the Governor was talked to on phone. Even then, without giving correct information, it was said to inform. No one informed. After this, time was again demanded from Raj Bhavan. Then five leaders of the alliance got permission to meet. At 10 pm, Champai Soren was told to become the CM, said Bhattacharya. The party General Secretary also said that when the resignation took place at 8:30 in the night, why was it waited till the next day night. Who was the executive of the state for more than a day? At the time of cabinet expansion, there was talk of floor test. Was the Governor afraid of majority? 49 members were with us. Despite the support of 49 MLAs in the 81-member assembly, he had to seek opinion. The media that the situation in Bihar is different because he is not in the custody of ED. Who will not accept your message. He will remain in the custody of ED. In Bihar, instead of the largest party, the third largest party was called. But the party with majority in Jharkhand was not invited, he added. Bhattacharya said that the Governor should inform who were the two MLAs who were not going to Hyderabad. The job of the Governor is to advise the government. Why is the Governor doing the work of BJP here? BJP people are responsible for the confusion that has arisen among the people of the State. Many bills of the old government are lying in the Raj Bhavan. Pass it and cooperate in the development of the State, he added. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday announced that the pension amount of retired DTC employees, pending for nearly one-and-a-half years, has been deposited in their accounts. The move is likely to impact over 20,000 retired employees of the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC). The chief minister acknowledged that the pensioners were experiencing problems in getting their pension, and rued about how the BJP-led centre interferes in the working of the Delhi government. "I know that many of you are annoyed. Anger arises only from those close to us, and your anger is justified. From the last one to one-and-a-half years, you are facing troubles in receiving your pensions," Kejriwal said in a video message on X. The Chief Minister stated that he holds himself responsible for all the grievances of retired DTC employees In 2015, our government was formed, he said, and recalled how even before that the retired employees had to face a lot of hardships to get their pension. "The previous government said that if the DTC employees want a pension, then the DTC should generate its funds. The DTC could not generate funds since it didn't have funds," Kejriwal said. "Since we assumed power, we started giving you pension from the Delhi Government's budget. And since the DTC employees were receiving their pensions each month without any interruptions. For the last one to one and a half-years, you are facing troubles and I seek your apology, he added. Kejriwal said that they called a special assembly session to increase the budget for pension. Keep faith in me. As long as Kejriwal is there, he'll not let your pensions stall. He will ensure you receive your entire pension. It may be delayed by a month or two since we do not have complete power," Kejriwal said. The Ratna Bhandar (treasure house) of the Jagannath Temple in Puri would be opened for repair work during the Rath Yatra this year, Law Minister Jagannath Saraka informed the State Assembly on Thursday. Replying to a question by Congress MLA Dasarathi Gamango, the Minister ruled out the claim that the State Government has been delaying the opening of Ratna Bhandar despite a High Court order. As both inner and outer Ratna Bhandar is located adjacent to Srimandir Jagmohan, if the ASI survey carries out repair work of the inner portion of Ratna Bhandar by entering into the structure, darshan of deities will be largely disrupted, Saraka told the House. The matter had been discussed precisely at the Srimandir Managing Committee meeting held on August 4, 2023. The panel members opined to inspect the inner condition of the Ratna Bhandar by conducting laser scanning outside the Ratna Bhandar. After laser scanning, the repair work can be conducted during Rath Yatra this year, he said. Notably, multiple PILs were filed in the Orissa High Court in the past seeking a direction to the State Government to take steps for opening of the Ratna Bhandar. In September last year, the High Court directed the government to constitute a high-level committee to supervise the preparation of inventory of the Ratna Bhandar. Earlier, the Managing Committee of the Jagannath Temple had decided to recommend the government to open the inner Ratna Bhandar during the Rath Yatra in 2024. The panel recommended to allow the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to carry out structural inspection of the inner Ratna Bhandar. However, no decision had been made regarding inventory of precious jewelleries stored inside it. In a major setback to the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) and particularly the Samajwadi Party, the Jayant Chaudhary-led Rashtriya Lok Dal ditched the opposition alliance and joined hands with the Bharatiya Janata Party in Uttar Pradesh for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. This is the fourth setback to the INDIA bloc in a row after Mamata Banerjee, Nitish Kumar and Arvind Kejriwal deserted the alliance. As per the seat-sharing agreement with the BJP, the RLD will contest two Lok Sabha seats Baghpat and Bijnor and has also been promised a seat in the Rajya Sabha. Prime Minister Narendra Modi understands the pulse of the nation. Modi jis vision has done what any other party could not do till now, Jayant Chaudhary said in a post on X. Earlier in January, SP and RLD had finalised a seat-sharing formula under which Jayants party was given seven Lok Sabha seats. RLD has pockets of influence in western Uttar Pradesh and the BJP hopes to gain in this region that is home to the influential Jat community. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, of the 16 seats that the BJP lost in Uttar Pradesh, seven were from west UP. It lost all six seats in the Moradabad division. The development comes amid differences over seat sharing between the INDIA bloc constituents in Uttar Pradesh. There remains no breakthrough in seat-sharing talks between the Congress and the SP too. The Akhilesh Yadav-led SP has, however, gone on to announce its candidates for 16 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh, catching the Congress off guard. Yadav had said in January that the RLD would be allotted seven seats, but details were not announced. The RLD and the SP have been allies in Uttar Pradesh since the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. In the 2019 polls, the RLD lost all three seats it contested while the SP won five seats. In the 2022 Uttar Pradesh assembly elections, Akhilesh Yadavs party won 111 seats out of the 347 it contested, while the RLD won nine of the 33 seats it contested. Bharatiya Janata Party State President and MP Vishnudutt Sharma was on a stay in village Awan of Raghogarh assembly of Guna district under the Gaon Chalo campaign being run by the party across the country. On Friday, the second day of his stay in the village, he did yoga with the students of Acharya Vachaspati Shukla Sanskrit Veda Vidyalaya in the morning. After yoga, he participated in the cleanliness program in the premises of Hanuman temple. Sharma discussed with the villagers at the tea shop and informed them about the schemes of the Central and State Government. While making payment through UPI at the tea shop, he said that even in this small village people are making digital payments, this is the rise of new India. The availability and practice of digital payment even in rural areas shows that MP has Modi in his mind and Modi has MP in his mind. He did wall writing in ward number 13 of Aavan village. He along with the booth team went door-to-door and contacted the villagers and informed them about the poor welfare, public welfare and public welfare schemes being implemented by the double engine government of BJP under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Sharma said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi never did vote bank politics. They work on the mantra of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas and Sabka Vishwas for the welfare of every poor with a spirit of service. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bharatiya Janata Party have always worked for the upliftment of tribal brothers and sisters. Prime Minister Narendra Modi got the blessings of tribal brothers and sisters in the 2023 Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections. Therefore he said that I will come to Jhabua and BJP will get full blessings of tribal brothers and sisters in the Lok Sabha elections also. Sharma gave membership of BJP to more than a dozen workers and social workers including Congress's Shri Rishiraj Singh Rajput, Shri Gopal Singh Lodha, Shri Pappu Lodha, Shri Vikas Lodha at the booth level in Aavan village. State President Vishnudutt Sharma interacted with the key voters of booth no. 94, 95, 96 and 97 under Gaon Chalo Abhiyan in Aavan village. Leaflets about public welfare schemes of the Central and State Government were distributed to the villagers. Sharma prayed for the happiness and prosperity of the people of the state by worshiping Lord Bholenath in the Shiva temple of the village. Sharma said during discussion with the media that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the historic tribal rally being organized in Jhabua on 11th February. All the party workers are busy in extensive preparations for the arrival of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Jhabua. I appeal to everyone to give a warm welcome to the Prime Minister and witness this historic moment by attending the rally. To tackle the shadowy world of cybercrime, Punjab School Education Department is stepping up to arm students with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the treacherous waters of the online realm. With the introduction of the Introduction to E-Security curriculum, the states education system is poised to wage war against online fraudsters, and the battleground is the classroom. A generation of savvy young minds will not just be fluent in mathematics and science, but also in the art of digital defense. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has crafted the syllabus tailor-made to thwart the schemes of cyber villains. And the foot soldiers in the crusade will be none other than the Classes VIII and IX students of the state government schools, chosen to lead the charge into the virtual battlefield. These young cadets, enrolled in the Student Police Cadet scheme, are not just learning about online fraud; they're becoming the frontline defenders of cyber justice. The Punjab State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) has written to all the district education officers (senior secondary) to include the curriculum in all the schools, and cover all the students already enrolled under the Student Police Cadet scheme, being implemented in 280 schools across 28 districts (23 revenue and five police districts) across the state. In Punjab, 40 students have been enrolled from 10 selected schools of each district under the scheme, taking the total tally to 11,200 students. This will help the students, preparing them to combat the growing menace of online frauds and scams. This comprehensive course is meticulously designed to arm students with a profound understanding of various e-Frauds and cybercrimes, with the ultimate goal of fostering a generation of digitally savvy and responsible citizens, a senior official of the Education Department informed The Pioneer. Course: A Shield Against Cyber Threats The Introduction to E-Suraksha program is not just a curriculum; it's a shield against the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats. Students will delve into the intricate workings of cybercriminal tactics, gaining insights into the deceptive maneuvers employed to gain unauthorized access and deceive unsuspecting individuals. The primary objective is to elevate digital literacy levels and instill safe online practices among students, transforming them into the first line of defense against cyber threats. Empowering the Guardians: How the Program Works The program kick-starts with a strategic Training of Trainers (ToT) initiative, where specialized courses will be organized for the Student Police Cadet (SPC) trainers or bring in expert educators. The next crucial step involves providing awareness classes and training to students, turning them into advocates for cyber safety not only within their families but also across their circles of friends, relatives, and neighborhoods. The localization aspect is pivotal, with the course set to be translated into local languages. This move aimed at sensitizing a larger demographic about the intricacies of e-fraud and the modus operandi of cybercriminals, ensuring a widespread and culturally relevant impact. Role of Students: Catalysts for Change Students are not mere recipients of information; they are integral to the success of the program. Tasked with several responsibilities, they play a pivotal role in creating a safer online environment. The students will become conduits of knowledge, educating themselves and others about various online frauds. Acting as messengers, they will disseminate articles, videos, and resources on social media, school platforms, and community forums. The students will act as the eyes and ears of cyber safety, promptly reporting suspicious activities to relevant authorities. Besides, they will initiate and lead campaigns and workshops to address the risks of online frauds within their schools and communities. In addition, these students will encourage strong password practices, advocating for unique passwords and promoting the use of password managers. Learning Objectives: Fortifying the Digital Arsenal By the end of the course, students are expected to have a comprehensive grasp of the digital realm. They will be adept at identifying common online frauds, recognizing warning signs, and analyzing phishing techniques. The curriculum extends to understanding the legal and ethical dimensions of cybercrimes, equipping students with the critical thinking skills needed to navigate online platforms securely. Real-Life Impact: Stories that Hit Home To drive the point home, the course incorporates real-life stories, shedding light on the devastating consequences of falling victim to online frauds. These narratives are crafted not just to educate but to resonate emotionally, emphasizing the real-world impact that cybercrimes can have on individuals and society at large. Preventive Measures: Building Digital Resilience The program doesn't just educate; it empowers students with practical preventive measures. From digital literacy education to promoting strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and safe online behavior, students emerge from the program with a fortified digital resilience that extends beyond the classroom. Creating Digital Guardians The Introduction to E-Suraksha program marks a significant stride toward creating a generation of digital guardians. With students at the forefront, armed with knowledge, awareness, and a sense of responsibility, the initiative aims to permeate through society, fostering a safer and more secure digital landscape. As the course unfolds, the hope is that it will act as a catalyst for change, shaping a future where cyber threats are met with informed vigilance and resilient defenses. Amidst the looming Delhi Chalo call by farmers on February 13, a pivotal meeting was held in Chandigarh on Thursday evening, where representatives from the Centre, State Government, and farmer leaders engaged in discussions to deter the upcoming protest. Organized by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, the meeting has drawn the participation of Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, Union Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda, and Minister of State Nityanand Rai, along with prominent farmer leaders from Punjab. The meeting assumes significant importance as it aims at addressing the grievances of farmers and potentially finding a resolution to prevent the escalation of tensions leading to the planned protest. With tensions simmering between the farmers and the Central Government over various contentious issues, including the demand for legal guarantees on minimum support price (MSP) for crops, the outcome of the meeting could have far-reaching implications. Till the filing of the report, the meeting, being held at Chandigarhs Punjab Bhawan since evening, was underway till night. The farmers agitation, led by the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) and the non-political Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), has gained momentum in recent weeks, with preparations for the Dilli Chalo protest intensifying. However, internal divisions within the farmer unions have emerged, with some prominent leaders refraining from participating in the upcoming protest. Jagjeet Singh Dallewal, a key figure in the 2020 farmers agitation, expressed the intention to discuss the outcomes of the meeting within their extensive coalition, comprising over 150 associations. While acknowledging past allegations of opposition support during previous protests, Sarwan Singh Pandher, another prominent farmer leader, dismissed such claims, citing the unity and resolve of the farming community. Initially, the farmers rebuffed the discussions initiated by Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar's office, urging them to halt the protest. Subsequent attempts to schedule talks were met with the explanation that no Union Minister would be available until February 14. However, on February 6, Punjab Chief Minister convened an online meeting, with the participation of the Punjab DGP, ADGPs, and various other officials. Following this, Mann facilitated a meeting between farmers and BJP ministers, providing written details regarding the time and location of the meeting. Presently, a 10-member delegation from KMM and SKM (non-political) is participating in the meeting, following which a decision-making process will ensue. The Dilli Chalo protest, scheduled for February 13, has been endorsed by over 100 farmer unions associated with the KMM and SKM. However, dissent within the ranks of the farmer unions is evident, with notable figures like Balbir Singh Rajewal and Joginder Singh Ugrahan opting out of the protest. The internal divisions underscore the complexity of the farmers movement and the diverse range of opinions within the agricultural community. The farmers demands, whoever, remain consistent, encompassing issues such as the legal guarantee of MSP, punishment for those involved in the Lakhimpur Kheri incident, withdrawal of FIRs lodged during previous protests, and pension schemes for elderly farmers. These demands reflect the deep-seated grievances of the farming community and their persistent struggle for economic security and social justice. As preparations for the protest intensify, the authorities have heightened security measures at the Haryana-Punjab border, deploying barricades and increasing surveillance to deter the movement of protesting farmers. The proactive measures by the Haryana government, including the deployment of central forces and the imposition of Section 144, signify a robust response to the anticipated protest. Meanwhile, the police and administration are on high alert, with stringent actions warned against those supporting the protest without permission. Measures such as vehicle confiscation and passport cancellations underscore the government's determination to maintain law and order and prevent any disruption caused by unauthorized protests. The meeting in Chandigarh comes at a critical juncture, offering an opportunity for dialogue and negotiation between the farmers and the government. While the farmers remain steadfast in their demands, the outcome of the meeting could shape the trajectory of the protest and its impact on the broader discourse surrounding agricultural reforms and farmers' rights. The Demands In the interim, farmers union leaders have formally communicated their demands to the union Agriculture Minister and the Prime Ministers Office (PMO) via email. Their entry into Delhi is planned through the Shambhu border. The farmers demands encompass several key issues, including the insistence on MSP for all crops, justice for the perpetrators involved in the Lakhimpur Kheri incident, withdrawal of all FIRs filed during the farmers protests, provision of a monthly pension of Rs 10,000 for farmers aged 60 and above, along with various other requisites. RLD president Jayant Chaudhary on Friday here signalled that he would be switching over to the NDA ahead of the Lok Sabha polls as he hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his government's decision to confer Bharat Ratna on his grandfather and former prime minister Chaudhary Charan Singh. "Koi kasar rehti hai? Aaj main kis munh se inkaar karoon aapke sawalon ko? (Is there anything left now? How can I refute your queries today?" Chaudhary said when asked if he was ready to join hands with the BJP. Hailing Modi, the Rashtriya Lok Dal chief said a decision which no previous governments had been able to take has been taken with the vision and dedication of the prime minister. "It is a big day for the country. It is an emotional moment for me, it is memorable. I would like to thank President Droupadi Murmu, the Government of India and especially Prime Minister Narendra Modi as this is a part of his vision that he took this decision and conferred (Chaudhary Charan Singh) with Bharat Ratna," Jayant Chaudhary told reporters. "Three awards were announced, and especially the announcement of Bharat Ratna to Charan Singh sends out a big message. The sentiments of this country are attached to this decision of the government. Modi ji has shown that he understands the thinking and sentiments of the country," he said. Chaudhary said there was a pain in the hearts of the people in villages that such a "towering people's leader", who occupied such high posts, took important decisions and worked for the deprived sections had not been recognised. "The government has taken a decision to encourage those who are not in the mainstream. I remember Chaudhary Ajit Singh on this day, it was his dream. I specifically thank PM Modi for realising that dream," Chaudhary said. Asked about the award being linked to contesting the upcoming Lok Sabha elections with the BJP, he said, "We win elections or lose, I am going in the coalition or not, that is not the question, today's decision is one that will be remembered for generations. If this is the Congress party's statement, I criticise it." On previous Congress-led governments not honouring Charan Singh with Bharat Ratna, Chaudhary said, "India's power has been restricted to only certain people who were part of the mainstream, that is why decisions were taken through them. In new India, all these things are changing." He said his father and former minister Ajit Singh made a lot of effort after which a decision was taken during the UPA-II that the Lucknow Airport would be named after Charan Singh. Pressed further on the seat-sharing understanding with the BJP, Chaudhary said, "It would be belittling to talk about elections on such a day...I have made no announcement. I just said 'Koi kasar rehti hai?'" Earlier, Chaudhary said the Modi government had won his heart with the announcement of Bharat Ratna to former prime minister Chaudhary Charan Singh. "Dil Jeet Liya," he posted on X. The honour for Singh comes at a time the RLD, led by his grandson Jayant Chaudhary is believed to be in talks with the BJP for an alliance for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, expected in April-May. The former prime minister died in 1987. Former prime ministers P V Narasimha Rao and Charan Singh as well as Green Revolution pioneer M S Swaminathan will be conferred the Bharat Ratna, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Friday. The government had earlier named former Bihar chief minister Karpoori Thakur, a champion of backward empowerment, and L K Advani, a founding BJP member credited with charting the course of its rise through the 1990s, for the country's highest civilian honour. At five, one more than the four announced in 1999, this is the maximum number of Bharat Ratnas announced for a year. Making the announcements for Rao, whose liberalisation policies revolutionised the economy, Singh, a champion of farmer causes, and Swaminathan, a globally renowned agricultural scientist, Modi lauded their contributions to the country. Singh, a Jat leader from western Uttar Pradesh who was prime minister in 1979-80, was one of the pioneers of anti-Congress politics at a time the party was a hegemonic political force. Congress leader Rao, a Telugu, who was prime minister for a full five-year term during 1991-96,,is widely recognised for ushering in economic reforms. It is our government's fortune that Singh is being honoured with the Bharat Ratna and it is dedicated to his incomparable contributions to the country, Modi said. Be it as an MLA, as Uttar Pradesh chief minister or the country's home minister, he always speeded up the nation-building exercise and also stood strongly against the Emergency, he added. Then prime minister Indira Gandhi had imposed the Emergency in 1975. Singh's dedication to farmers and commitment to democracy during the Emergency inspires the country, the prime minister said. The honour for Singh comes at a time the RLD, led by his grandson Jayant Singh, is believed to be in talks with the BJP for an alliance for the Lok Sabha polls, expected in April-May. Singh died in 1987. Paying rich tributes to Rao, who passed away in 2004, Modi said he served the country extensively in various capacities as a distinguished scholar and statesman. He said Rao is equally remembered for the work he did as the chief minister of Andhra Pradesh, a Union minister and as lawmaker in Parliament and assembly for many years. "His visionary leadership was instrumental in making India economically advanced, laying a solid foundation for the country's prosperity and growth," Modi said. "Narasimha Rao Garu's tenure as prime minister was marked by significant measures that opened India to global markets, fostering a new era of economic development," he added. Modi said Rao's contributions to India's foreign policy, language and education sectors underscore his multifaceted legacy as a leader who not only steered India through critical transformations but also enriched its cultural and intellectual heritage. The Modi government's move to recognise two stalwart politicians who came from non-BJP backgrounds is resonant with political and social messaging. It is expected to boost the BJP's efforts to present itself as a party which represents pan-India interests and aspirations and recognises leading people in different fields. Rao's admirers have long argued that he has not been given his due by the Congress due to his less than warm relations with the Nehru-Gandhi family, a point often made by BJP leaders too. As the country's first and only full-term prime minister from south India, Rao occupies a special place in the region. Modi said it is a matter of immense joy that his government is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Swaminathan in recognition of his monumental contributions to the nation in agriculture and farmers' welfare. "He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture during challenging times and made outstanding efforts towards modernizing Indian agriculture. We also recognise his invaluable work as an innovator and mentor and encouraging learning and research among several students," he said. Swaminathan's visionary leadership has not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured the nation's food security and prosperity, the prime minister said, noting that he knew him closely and always valued his insights and inputs. The agronomist passed away last year. Four of the five awards this year are posthumous. Advani, 96, is the only one alive. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday called for shoring up engagement among countries of Indian Ocean region to confront challenges like safeguarding sovereignty, dealing with cases of disregard to maritime laws and flouting of long-standing pacts, in remarks seen as an oblique reference to China's military assertiveness including along the Line of Actual Control. In an address at the seventh Indian Ocean Conference in Perth, he also flagged concerns over unsustainable debt, opaque lending practices, unviable projects and "injudicious" choices, in thinly-veiled comments that came amid concerns over many countries falling into the Chinese 'debt trap'. Jaishankar also said the Quad supports a larger architecture in "this part" of the world and those who mischievously suggest that the four-nation coalition questions the centrality of the ASEAN are "playing their own". "As we gaze at the Indian Ocean, the challenges besetting the world are on full display there. At one extremity, we see conflict, threats to maritime traffic, piracy and terrorism," he said. "At the other, there are challenges to international law, concerns about freedom of navigation and overflights, and of safeguarding of sovereignty and of independence. Any disregard for arduously negotiated regimes like UNCLOS 1982 is naturally disturbing," he said. "In between, a range of trans-national and non-traditional threats present themselves, largely visible in a spectrum of interconnected illegal activities. Instability also increases when long-standing agreements are no longer observed, with no credible justification to justify a change of stance," he said. Jaishankar said: "All of them, separately and together, make it imperative that there be greater consultation and cooperation, among the states of the Indian Ocean." His remarks on non-observance of long-standing agreements without credible justification came against the backdrop of the lingering eastern Ladakh border row that was triggered by China's amassing of a large number of troops along the LAC in the region in violation of existing pacts between the two sides. In his address, Jaishankar also referred to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982. India and a number of other countries including ASEAN member states have been calling for implementation of the UNCLOS, especially in the South China Sea. There have been growing global concerns over China's military offensive in the South China Sea. Jaishankar also talked about "disruptive" events saying they are occurring with greater frequency and deeper impact. "There are also the consequences of distant happenings, such as the fuel, food and fertilizer crises that many of us have experienced," he said. "But we should be equally conscious that the 'normal' can be manipulated, leading to unsustainable debt, opaque lending practices, unviable projects and injudicious choices," he said. "Similarly, there are the complexities of dual purpose agendas that mask visibility and lower our guard. Indeed, such activities when combined with the advancement of connectivity with strategic intent, has emerged as a growing anxiety for Indian Ocean states," Jaishankar noted. He said it is necessary to develop awareness and proper understanding of the challenges. "Our very concept of security has undergone a metamorphosis in a volatile and uncertain existence. As a result, the nations of the Indian Ocean today need to reflect on whether they should pursue more collective self-reliance, or remain as vulnerable as in the past," he said. "Our sustainable future lies in concentrating on the drivers of the future: digital, electric mobility, green hydrogen and green shipping, to cite a few," he said. Jaishankar also called for deeper cooperation among like-minded countries in the Indo-Pacific region. "While infusing more energy into the Indian Ocean centric bodies, we also need to simultaneously work on the larger Indo-Pacific canvas and the narrower sub-regional ones. At the end of the day, they all reinforce each other," he said. Jaishankar also drew attention to the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), proposed by India in 2019. "It is an open, non-treaty based global initiative that seeks to manage, conserve, sustain, and secure the maritime domain," he said. "In the IPOI, Australia's leadership on Maritime Ecology, the UK's on maritime security, and the co-leadership of France and Indonesia on the Maritime Resources pillars have helped to make a beginning," he added. The IPOI aims to launch new projects and initiatives while establishing greater synergy with IORA (Indian Ocean Rim Association). Jaishankar also highlighted efforts of quadrilateral grouping Quad in addressing various challenges. He said the Quad is now addressing a range of issues such as maritime security, safety, environment protection, connectivity, strategic technologies, supply chain resilience, health, education and cyber security, amongst others. He said the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework and the Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness are larger endeavours that have emerged from the deliberations of the Quad. "The Quad is today a forum for global good that is particularly active in regard to the global commons. Its deepening is in the interest not only of its members but of the larger region which draws benefit from its activities," he said. Jaishankar said the Quad supports the larger architecture in this part of the world that has been painstakingly built up over so many years by ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) processes. "Those who mischievously suggest that Quad questions the centrality of the ASEAN are playing their own . I am confident that ASEAN will see through it," he said. Jaishankar noted that the Indian Ocean region may be "extraordinarily diverse" and "immensely complicated", but its "inherent unity, so deeply rooted in our traditions and cultures, are today best advanced by more intense cooperation among member states." Starting in March, Shippensburg University will once again provide free mental health counseling services to South Middleton School District students who otherwise have limited access due to insurance gaps. The school board Monday renewed a partnership agreement where the university will provide counseling interns while the district will provide confidential space in which to operate during- or after-school clinics. This is just one part of our comprehensive approach so students are afforded the mental health services that they need, said Alex Smith, district director of student services. The district first partnered with the universitys Growing Edges community clinic program in 2021-22, Smith said. On average, they have provided us with about two interns per school year that served six to 10 of our students in grades six through 12. So far, the partnership with South Middleton has focused on the secondary grade levels and has been based at the Yellow Breeches Middle School and Boiling Springs High School, Smith said. The plan is to continue this pattern. There has been a lapse in service so far in 2023-24 in part because the interns who were assigned to South Middleton in prior years have graduated from the masters degree program at the university, Smith said. Before the service could resume, the district would need to receive and process all the consent forms from the families of eligible students and allow the new interns to acclimate themselves to the school buildings, he said. You may ask how do we know this service is the most appropriate instead of other types of mental health or community-based supports, Smith said. Its all driven through our student assistance program. To be eligible, the student and the parents must agree to a needs assessment as provided through TeenLine, Smith said. This type of entry level care focuses on cases where insurance gaps exist and where students are trying to cope with a budding or at-risk issue such as anxiety, grief or the loss of stability due to a broken home or divorce, he said. In a typical case, the student meets with the intern once a week for one-on-one counseling over a period of six to 15 weeks, Smith said. We hope to see growth within the student over the course of that time. Referrals are made, as needed, to more intensive levels of care. Shippensburg University started the Growing Edges program in 2008 and provides the free service to eligible students in the Big Spring and Shippensburg Area school districts, said Ford Brooks, program director and a professor in the counselor education department. The university also operates a free community clinic on-campus at Shippen Hall and in two rooms at the Grace Place building at 21 N. Prince St. in Shippensburg, Brooks said. Aside from providing services to people on the margins, the program offers graduate students a supervised, hands-on clinical experience in a community setting where they help people cope with a variety of issues, he said. The level of activity of the program depends on the number of graduate students who sign up to be interns, Brooks said. Part of his job is to brief the university students on the opportunities the program presents in their pursuit of a masters degree, he said. In recent years, the program has had about six doctorate students supervise 16 masters level interns handling 80 to 100 clients at any time. Prince Harry has reached an out-of-court settlement with a tabloid newspaper publisher that invaded his privacy with phone hacking and other illegal snooping, Harry's lawyer said Friday. Attorney David Sherborne said Mirror Group Newspapers had agreed to pay Harry's legal costs and would make an interim payment of 400,000 pounds ($505,000). Harry was awarded 140,000 pounds ($177,000) in damages in December after the judge found that phone hacking was widespread and habitual at Mirror Group Newspapers in the 1990s, and that executives at the papers covered it up. Judge Timothy Fancourt found that Harry's phone was hacked to a modest extent. Harry's case against Mirror Group, which publishes the Daily Mirror and two other tabloids, is one of several he has launched in a campaign against the British media, which he blames for blighting his life and hounding both his late mother Princess Diana and his wife Meghan. In June, he became the first senior member of the royal family to testify in court in over a century during the trial of his case against the Mirror. Harry, also known as the Duke of Sussex, wasn't in court for Friday's ruling. He traveled to London from his home in California earlier this week to visit his father King Charles III, who has been diagnosed with cancer. In a respite for Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, the Supreme Court on Thursday ordered the suspension of a recent amendment to Parliaments standing orders that had made it easier for the opposition lawmakers to impeach the president and the vice president, local media reports said. The constitution declares that an impeachment motion against the president or vice president requires the vote of two-thirds of the members of Parliament. However, the House had recently amended its standing orders to make it easier to submit an impeachment motion by lowering the number of votes required for it. The Attorney Generals Office filed the case with the Supreme Court over the amendment on January 28. It also asked for an injunction to suspend the amendment until the court makes a final ruling. The case was heard by the full bench of the Supreme Court, Sun.mv, a news portal, reported. Describing the chain of events in the run-up to the development, the report said that the Election Commission had decided against holding by-elections when seven lawmakers resigned from Parliament in November to assume top positions in President Muizzus administration, saying that the parliamentary elections are to be held soon. Taking advantage of the situation, the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) which holds a majority in the Parliament amended Parliaments standing orders so that vacated seats arent counted when determining the total number of MPs, the report said. It meant only 54 votes were required to impeach President Muizzu, instead of the previous 58, as, post the amendment, the total number of MPs would be counted as 80 instead of 87.In January, the MDP and the Democrats announced an alliance to work together in the Parliament and hence have 56 MPs between them; 43 from the MDP, and 13 from the Democrats. On January 28, the Attorney Generals Office had filed the case, the same day when the MDP-Democrats alliance stalled the approval of three members of President Muizzus cabinet and clashes broke out in the House between pro-government MPs and opposition lawmakers following differences over the approval of four members of the cabinet. The next day, on January 29, the MDP had announced that it planned to submit a motion to impeach President Muizzu and that it already started gathering signatures for the same.On Tuesday, the Supreme Court accepted the proposition by the State to annul the amendment to the Parliament Regulations, Edition.mv said. Now, on Thursday, Justice Azmiralda Zahir, Justice Mahaz Ali Zahir, and Justice Husnu Al Suood found in favour of issuing the injunction, citing the need to maintain the status quo. But Justice Aisha Shujoon Mohamed and Justice Mohamed Ibrahim found there were no grounds to issue the injunction, citing that the case was submitted a month after the passage of the amendment, Sun.mv reported. Pro-China Muizzu, 45, defeated India-friendly incumbent Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in the presidential runoff held in September last year. On January 24, calling India the most long-standing ally, the MDP and the Democrats expressed concern about the Muizzu governments anti-India stance. The Maldives proximity to India, barely 70 nautical miles from the island of Minicoy in Lakshadweep and 300 nautical miles from the mainlands western coast, and its location at the hub of commercial sea lanes running through the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) gives it significant strategic importance. 18 2024 : , , 1902 . 1909 . 1967 Torrey Canyon ( 300,) 120.000 16 (. ). . , , 270 120 55 . 30 . 1989 , , 4.400 . 1992 Microsoft Windows 3.1. A Buckingham County man faces multiple charges for drug, gun and traffic violations after a high-speed chase on Interstate 64 ended in a wreck in Albemarle County on Wednesday. Antwan Maxie, a 39-year-old resident of New Canton, has been charged with possessing a schedule I or II drug, possessing a firearm while in possession of schedule I or II drugs, eluding law enforcement, assaulting an officer of the law and hit-and-run. Virginia State Police said officers first made with contact with Maxie when they tried to initiate a traffic stop while he was behind the wheel of a 2011 Chevrolet Silverado in the 1200 block of Fifth Street just south of Charlottesville city limits around 12:30 p.m. Wednesday. Maxie refused to stop, police said, and intentionally rammed a state police K-9 patrol vehicle before speeding away. Maxie proceeded onto I-64 traveling west, police said. Virginia State Police said they surrounded Maxie as he made his way down the highway in order to contain the vehicle and bring it to a stop. It eventually came to a stop when Maxie wrecked the Silverado near the U.S. 29 exit ramp, according to reports. Upon searching the vehicle, police said they discovered a firearm, cocaine and fentanyl inside. Maxie was transported to University of Virginia Medical Center to be treated for minor injuries before he was moved to Albemarle-Charlottesville Regional Jail, where he remains. 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A crypto millionaire who has researched the space for a decade says it will go up 8,788% in 5 years. The name of this cryptocurrency is revealed right here: Click to get the name of the cryptocurrency Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the replacement of the countrys top military general in what is seen as a significant strategic move. This decision, unfolding amid ongoing tensions and conflicts in the region, marks a pivotal moment in Ukraines military and strategic posture on the global stage. Get alerts: General Oleksandr Turchynov, who has led the Ukrainian Armed Forces through some of the most challenging periods in recent history, will pass the baton to General Pavlo Klimkin. Klimkin, a figure known for his strategic understanding and extensive experience in modern warfare, is tasked with steering the nations military strategy amidst escalating geopolitical pressures. The timing and its significance The timing of this leadership transition is particularly noteworthy. With Ukraine at the crossroads of a protracted conflict with separatist forces and under the looming shadow of Russian military activities, this change signals a strategic recalibration. Analysts speculate that President Zelenskys decision is rooted in a desire to inject fresh perspectives and innovative strategies into the Ukrainian militarys operations. General Klimkins mandate Implications for Ukraine and beyond General Pavlo Klimkin is stepping into his new role with a clear mandate: to modernize Ukraines military capabilities and enhance its readiness to face multifaceted threats. His background in integrating advanced technology and cyber warfare into military strategy is critical to this endeavor. Furthermore, Klimkins diplomatic skills, honed through years of navigating international defense forums, are expected to bolster Ukraines efforts to secure support from Western allies. This leadership transition is more than an administrative change; it is a strategic move with far-reaching implications. Firstly, it underscores Ukraines commitment to strengthening its defense mechanisms in response to an evolving threat landscape. By bringing in a general with a strong focus on modern warfare and technology, Ukraine is signaling its readiness to confront aggression with a blend of traditional and innovative tactics. Secondly, the change will likely impact Ukraines international relations, particularly with NATO countries. General Klimkins known advocacy for closer ties with the West could facilitate deeper military cooperation and aid, further solidifying Ukraines position in the European security architecture. Challenges ahead However, the road ahead for General Klimkin and the Ukrainian military is littered with challenges. The delicate balance of deterring aggression while avoiding escalation requires a strategic approach. Moreover, modernizing the armed forces amidst budgetary constraints and ensuring the morale and cohesion of troops in turbulent times will test the new generals leadership skills. The role of the international community The international communitys response to this leadership change will be crucial. Support from Western allies, both in terms of military aid and diplomatic backing, will play a significant role in shaping the outcomes of Ukraines strategic pivot. As the situation unfolds, the global defense community will be watching closely, assessing the impact of General Klimkins strategies on regional stability and security. General Pavlo Klimkins appointment as the head of the Ukrainian Armed Forces marks a new chapter in Ukraines military history. With a clear mandate to modernize and a backdrop of complex geopolitical challenges, his leadership comes at a critical juncture. How he navigates the intricacies of modern warfare, international diplomacy, and internal dynamics will determine the future of Ukraines defense posture and influence the broader security landscape in Eastern Europe and beyond. As Ukraine strides into this new era, the eyes of the world remain fixed on its efforts to maintain sovereignty and peace. The journey ahead is uncertain, but the resolve of its people and leaders, as demonstrated through this bold military reshuffle, signals a steadfast commitment to securing a stable and secure future. Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. A woman has been given a suspended sentence at Derry Magistrates Court for assaulting police and disorderly behaviour outside Altnagelvin Hospital. Jessica Friel (24) of Fergleen Mews in Derry was charged with the offences that took place on September 23 last year. The court heard that police were parked in an ambulance bay outside the hospital with a vulnerable patient in the car when Friel got out from an ambulance, giving police the finger and shouting abuse. Friel then tried to get into the police car on several occasions causing great distress to the patient. Police arrested her and she proceeded to kick one of the officers. Defence Barrister Fergal McCormick told the court that the incident was a 'perfect storm' of substance abuse and Friel not being able to contact her son on his birthday. He added that she herself was in a vulnerable state but that she has since reached out to multiple organisations for help. He also said that she is not a repeat offender and that her last relevant offence was in 2017, telling the court that she has no desire to repeat the incident. She was sentenced to four months in custody, suspended for two years and ordered to pay 400 to the Friends of Altnagelvin charity. A recent University of Virginia graduate now attending the schools McIntire School of Commerce has been taken into custody after he was indicted earlier this month on rape charges. Derek Rodriguez-Contreras, 22, was arrested Wednesday. He has been charged with rape, malicious wounding and sexual battery. Anyone with information relevant to this incident is encouraged to contact Detective Chuck Marshall with the Albemarle County Police Departments Criminal Investigations Division, Albemarle County police said in a statement announcing his arrest. That statement and the Feb.5 indictment handed down by an Albemarle grand jury make clear that the alleged crime that led to Rodriguez-Contreras arrest occurred on Sept. 22 of last year, an investigation was launched on Nov. 21 and the victims initials are L.S. No additional details could be gleaned from either document. According to a since-deleted profile of Rodriguez-Contreras on the McIntires School website, he was one of the schools student ambassadors who serve its admissions team by giving tours and sharing information to prospective students. In the profile, Rodriguez-Contreras, who hails from the Bronx borough of New York City, expressed enthusiasm for UVas commerce program, and he particularly enthused about company strategies and marketing. They really make my brain move and allow me to think critically! he wrote in a question-and-answer section. The McIntire School removed the profile after Rodriguez-Contreras was taken into custody. A source close to the investigation said that Rodriguez-Contreras alleged victim is an undergraduate student at UVa and that the reported incident took place at Rodriguez-Contreras apartment. Court records show no prior criminal record. Appearing on video feed in Albemarle Circuit Court from Albemarle-Charlottesville Regional Jail Thursday morning, the suspect indicated that he goes by the name Derek Rodriguez. He appeared calm and serious as he asked Circuit Judge Cheryl Higgins to appoint him a lawyer. Four people identified as friends of Rodriguez-Contreras sat in the gallery. All declined an interview request from The Daily Progress after the hearing. Higgins appointed Anthony Martin to serve as attorney for Rodriguez-Contreras and set another hearing for Monday. An investigation is still ongoing. The Albemarle County Police Department encourages anyone with information regarding Rodriguez-Contreras or the reported incident to contact the detective working the case at (434) 296-5807 or the anonymous Crime Stoppers tip line at (434) 977-4000. Rodriguez-Contreras was being held without bail at Albemarle-Charlottesville Regional Jail as of Thursday. Save my User ID and Password Some subscribers prefer to save their log-in information so they do not have to enter their User ID and Password each time they visit the site. To activate this function, check the 'Save my User ID and Password' box in the log-in section. This will save the password on the computer you're using to access the site. Note: If you choose to use the log-out feature, you will lose your saved information. This means you will be required to log-in the next time you visit our site. Subscriber content preview Photos by Benjamin Benschneider [enlarge] The project included the addition of new windows at Cornishs Main Campus Center building. Cornish College of the Arts is celebrating the recent completion of a new fabrication studio at its city campus. . . . Subscriber content preview SPOKANE (AP) Republican U.S. Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers of Washington state says she will not seek reelection after two decades in Congress. McMorris Rodgers, 54, the chair of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, said in a statement Thursday she made the decision after much prayer and reflection. . . . An Ardara man critically injured in America in late December has made a miracle recovery. Daniel Gallagher was flown home on Wednesday and has been admitted to Letterkenny University Hospital. Daniel from Meenakillew, Ardara, was involved in an accident on December 29 in Orlando, Florida, while on holiday with family. Medics saved the life of the south-west Donegal native as locals in Ardara rallied around his family. Prayers were offered in the Church of the Holy Family while over 180,000 was raised in a GoFundMe drive. Now, Daniel is back in Donegal as his recovery journey continues. Having been cleared for discharge from the Orlando Regional Medical Centre, where he had been under 24-hour care by a team of doctors, he was flown into City of Derry Airport by air ambulance. His brother Paul made the journey with him and Daniel is now in LUH undergoing further treatment following numerous surgeries. We are so delighted to get him back on soil, as we never imagined this would be possible six weeks post his accident, his sister Fiona said. We hope to get him transferred to the National Rehabilitation Centre for further treatment and rehab on his injuries. Fiona said the Gallagher family have been blown away by the support and the prayers. She said: They definitely have made such a difference as Daniel is progressing every day and this is truly a miracle. He still has a very long hard road to go and at the moment the hospital has recommended that we limit visitors to immediate family only. We have been blown away by the kindness and generosity of everyone and we have taken great strength from it all. Former taoiseach John Bruton has been described as a visionary and a great statesman, at a removal mass at a Co Meath church on Friday ahead of his state funeral. Mr Brutons remains were taken to Saints Peter and Pauls Church on the main street of his home town of Dunboyne. Former minister Richard Bruton carried the coffin of his older brother into the church for the ceremony, which began after 7pm on Friday. During the mass, parish priest Pat OConnor described John Bruton as a visionary and a man committed to peace. No matter what position John found himself, he gave it his all, as a TD, as a minister, as taoiseach. He was a great statesman, his vision for the European Union was far-seeing. He certainly was a great ambassador for the EU. Not only for the EU, but also for Ireland. John Bruton, a politician, a minister, taoiseach, ambassador, all great achievements for the Dunboyne man who never lost touch with his roots. EU Commissioner Mairead McGuinness, Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys and Justice Minister Helen McEntee were among those at the service. Culture Minister Catherine Martin and her husband Francis Noel Duffy TD, Childrens Minister Roderic OGorman, and Minister of State for Sport Thomas Byrne were also present at what was otherwise a service for local people. Senior politicians and dignitaries are expected to attend Mr Brutons funeral at the same church on Saturday, before he is buried at Rooske Cemetery. Mr Bruton, who was Irelands premier between 1994 and 1997 and leader of Fine Gael between 1990 and 2001, died on Tuesday aged 76. He died surrounded by his family in hospital after a long illness. Born in Dunboyne, he graduated from University College Dublin before qualifying as a barrister. After becoming taoiseach, one of Mr Brutons first policy initiatives was to call for a referendum that would see the Irish constitution change to allow divorce. Later that same year he welcomed the then-Prince of Wales to Dublin, marking the first official visit by a member of the royal family since the founding of the state. He was pivotal in establishing the Northern Ireland peace process alongside then-UK prime minister John Major, as they launched the Anglo-Irish Framework document. Politicians have praised his intellect, sense of humour and distinctive laugh as well as his passion for farming and dedication to his faith. Richard Bruton described his older brother as a pioneer of reform of parliament and a man of a lot of ideas. He always travelled on the slogan that every person counts. I think he brought it into his dealings with everyone, he said, during an emotional tribute in the Irish Parliament on Wednesday. John Bruton is survived by his wife Fionala, his children Matthew, Juliana, Emily and Mary-Elizabeth, and his grandchildren. Paying tribute to his family, parish priest Pat OConnor said: Family was the centre of Johns life. Finola, you were the centre of his life, and became his angel guardian all the time of his illness. Mr Bruton had been very proud of his four children and enjoyed the fun and laughter that his grandchildren brought to his life. Of course, speaking of laugh, John had a great, infectious laugh. We can hear him laughing now. Charlottesvilles recently unionized bus drivers, firefighters and police officers are on the verge of getting new contracts after months of negotiations. According to the city, it has reached tentative agreements with all three unions, subject to ratification by union members. Only one of those unions has confirmed the news. The local chapter of the Amalgamated Transit Union, which represents the Charlottesville Area Transit workers, says it reached an agreement with the city last week. It will show the tentative contract to members for the first time this weekend. The union is not providing any contract details to the public, it said. But heading into negotiations, which began in the fall, higher pay was a top priority for drivers. Our members are really struggling to get by. The vast majority have to work two or three jobs, John Ertl, a union staffer who was involved in the recent negotiations, told The Daily Progress. We wanted strong wage increases that put them on par with other people in the industry, and we want them to have a dignified living, Ertl said. They deserve to live in the city where theyre driving people around. The negotiations wouldnt have been possible before 2021, when Virginia first made it legal for employees of municipal governments to unionize. Previously, it had been one of two states in the country to outlaw public sector collective bargaining. The year after the commonwealth law changed, Charlottesville City Council approved a collective bargaining ordinance, and in 2023 the citys bus drivers as well as its police and fire departments voted to unionize. Ertl said the ATU was thankful for the city passing the ordinance. They wanted to turn the page on this and allow employees the fundamental right to form unions. We give them a lot of credit for that, Ertl said. For CAT operator Matt Ray, pay was a top priority entering negotiations. In 2022, the city raised driver wages from $17 to $21 per hour, with an immediate 12% pay increase for employees with at least one year of service. That brought Rays salary to $22.05 per hour. My 10 years experience is worth a dollar and a nickel, Ray told The Daily Progress in June. Maurice Carter, president of the local ATU chapter, would not go over details of the tentative deal but told The Daily Progress that his team had to construct a contract from scratch. One of the lawyers negotiating on behalf of the city, Robin Burroughs from the Washington, D.C.-based Venable law firm, slowed things down, Carter said. The lawyer they hired, a high-priced lawyer from D.C., was asking for some unreasonable demands, Carter said. She was involved the whole time and thats what delayed the process. But both sides powered through and reached a three-year deal that will take effect July 1, if approved by union members, City Council and City Manager Sam Sanders. If members vote to ratify the contract, Ertl doesnt expect Council or Sanders to derail it. I would find it highly unlikely either would happen, because city negotiators get their marching order from the decision-makers, Ertl said. The firefighters' union would not say whether or not it has reached a tentative contract with the city. It is our organizations intention to have a deal in place with the city within the next few weeks, Frank Scopelliti, who represents the local chapter of the International Association of Fire Fighters, told The Daily Progress. Just like the bus drivers, any tentative agreement between the firefighters union and the city would have to be ratified by union members and approved by city leadership. For Charlottesville police, benefits and pay were top of mind when their union entered negotiations. Michael Wells, local chapter president of the Southern States Police Benevolent Association, thinks it would be premature to make any announcements about a deal, though. I will say its been a work in process and were very happy with the progress thats been made with city management and representatives for the police department and there will be more to follow very soon, Wells told The Daily Progress. Wells is optimistic that a deal will be reached soon and said he hopes the Albemarle County Police Department, where he is employed, will follow suit. I think its going to benefit the community as a whole, because the most important resource for any agency is their people. You want people feeling like theyre part of the process and part of the community, Wells said. They buy in, and you hopefully get police officers for the agency to stick around. Tonys Pizzeria in Park Street Dundalk has won the gold title for Pizza of The Year at the Irish Takeaway Awards 2024. The award ceremony, organised by NI Media, took place on Tuesday the 5th of February at Tullamore Hotel where Vincent Del Duca along with his family and staff celebrated their achievement as a team with representatives from other takeaways across the whole of Ireland. Owner Vinny Del Duca, after their win, said: Its an honor to be recognised nationwide for this award. "My late father Emilio brought our pizza dough recipe from the mountains of Italy years ago, and we have continued to build on it since. "We are very thankful to our customers for their continuous support." Tonys Pizzeria is a family-owned local takeaway in Dundalk that has been providing the town with delicious food and wonderful customer service for the past 12 years. You can find out more about Tonys Pizzeria on their website www.tonyspizza.ie or on their social media pages. 30 5th class students in St Peters National School in Dromiskin attended Leinster House on a school visit organised by local Dundalk Senator John McGahon. The students were accompanied by their teacher Ms Rodgers and their Principal Ms Lynch where they got the opportunity to visit the Dail and the Seanad in Leinster House. Former Taoiseach John Bruton had sadly passed away the same week the students came for their visit, which meant all regular parliamentary business was suspended. Students got to hear statements and expressions of sympathy for the late Taoiseach and were taken through the historic portrait gallery of former Taoisigh. Senator McGahon explained how laws are made and passed and took students on a tour where he explained the history of the house. Even though regular parliamentary business was suspended on the day of the students visit, the students received a really informative tour where they learned all about how laws are passed and how work is carried out in Dail Eireann and Seanad Eireann", Senator McGahon explained. "They also learned about how the Houses of the Oireachtas works, the history of Leinster House itself and how Oireachtas committees work." "We have organised tours for hundreds of Co Louth primary and secondary students in the past few months and the feedback from teachers and parents has been really positive. It is a great way to bring history and CSPE to life and to show students how the laws of our country are made. It is a great way to see politics inaction and hear politicians speak on issues that affect the lives of students. The students from St Peters were an excellent bunch of pupils who represented Louth and did their teachers and parents proud. They asked many insightful questions on a range of political issues, how laws are made and the history of Leinster House and behaved brilliantly. Students were particularly interested in climate change, how politicians are elected and education topics. There are definitely some budding politicians and diplomats in St Peters 5th class and it is great to see young people engaging enthusiastically with politics. "Anyone watching Oireachtas TV would have seen some well behaved St Peters NS students in the gallery concluded Senator McGahon. Local Fine Gael TD, Fergus ODowd, has welcomed news today that from September DKIT will deliver a course for students with intellectual disabilities titled Certificate in General Learning: Skills for Independent Living. ODowd said: This news comes as part of a national announcement by my colleague Minister Simon Harris which will see new courses for students with intellectual disabilities introduced in ten different higher education institutions across the country, due to commence in academic year 2024/25. This transformational policy will ensure college courses designed specifically for learners with an intellectual disability will be rolled out from September. Speaking today, Minister Harris said: We know that people with an intellectual disability have not been represented adequately in Higher Education. We want and need our College Campuses to reflect communities. Today, we are making a change. Today we are opening doors and opportunities so that these learners can take their place among our college communities. That is why we are announcing expanded Higher Education course provision today with expected investment of over 10 million to support learners with an intellectual disability. Up until now, courses have been limited in location and availability but this investment will help change that and ensure there is equality of opportunity for every person in our country. The programmes span over 10 different higher education institutions and are due to commence in academic year 2024/25. Approximately 150 students can be expected to enrol in the first year of provision. Under this initiative, the courses will be between one and two years in length. The student will apply directly to the college involved and can avail of specific pastoral and financial supports. Minister Harris added: These courses have been designed with the learner at heart. When given the opportunity, students with an intellectual disability can thrive. Access to higher education can lead to employment. It can transform the lives of students and their families as well as society as a whole. In addition, Minister Harris is announcing 1.8 million to roll out sensory maps of college campuses to support autistic learners and anti-racism measures particularly to challenge racism for members of the Traveller and Roma communities. Ryanair boss, Michael OLeary has called on transport minister Eamon Ryan to resign in favour of someone competent in an open letter published today. Michael OLeary wrote the open letter after Mr Ryans continued failure to act on his own aviation policy. This comes after Eamon Ryan accused the Ryanair boss of being personally abusive. Despite your almost 4 year tenure as Irelands Minister for Transport, it is clear that you either have no idea what your own Governments National Aviation Policy is, or you are determined to frustrate this policy, started Mr OLeary. Over the past 4 years, while you have been Irelands Transport Minister, you have failed to take any action to advance the goals of this National Aviation Policy. You disappeared during the security queues crisis at Dublin in Summer 2022. You disappeared again while drones closed Dublin Airport on 6 occasions during Spring 2023, and lamentably you have failed to take any action when an arbitrary and untenable traffic cap of 32m passengers now means that Dublin Airport and Ireland's aviation industry cannot grow for at least 3 or 4 years while you abrogate responsibility for National Aviation Policy to a local Council in Fingal, he wrote. According to Mr OLeary, other EU airports are now laughing at Irelands traffic cap while they in this growth. "If you are unwilling to implement Ireland's National Aviation Policy as Minister for Transport, why don't you resign and let someone competent deliver this traffic, tourism and jobs growth for Ireland?, he concluded. Bridge Street Studios, a renowned hub of artistry in Dundalk, said it is thrilled to present their latest visual art exhibition, 'Shed,' hosted at the Basement Gallery, An Tain Arts Centre. The exhibition will run from 22nd February to 30th March, 2024, with opening hours on Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 4pm. The opening launch is set to take place on Wednesday, February 21st, and the artists said they are delighted to welcome Sinead Murphy, Dundalk based film producer and director, to officially launch the show. Nestled in a historic 250-year-old grain store, Bridge Street Studios stands as a testament to the thriving creativity within Dundalk. As one of the oldest and largest independent artistic collectives in Ireland, the Studios have been an integral part of the town's creative fabric since their formation in 1996. The 'Shed' exhibition features the works of nine dynamic professional artists and craftspeople who are all based in Bridge Street Studios, including Orlaith Cullinane, Rachel Tinniswood, Mary Cowan, Cathy McKeown, Suzanne Carroll, Caoilfionn Murphy O'Hanlon, Orla Barry, Sarah McKenna, and Fiona Quigley. Their collective expertise spans a wide array of mediums, including paintings, sculpture, prints, ceramics, textiles, and mixed media. The artists have masterfully explored the theme of "Shed" with rich imagery, allusion, and symbolism, crafting responses and connections on personal, local, and universal levels, a spokesperson said. Each artist brings a unique perspective to the theme, creating a diverse and thought-provoking exhibition. Highlighted Works from 'Shed': - Orla Barry presents a series of hinged triptychs, offering homages to nature that shed light on its wonder and beauty. -Orlaith Cullinane, through sculpture and drawing, explores the shedding of light into the shadow side of the psyche. -Rachel Tinniswood manipulates fabric and silk, creating pieces with a skin-like quality that centre around layers and renewal. - Sarah McKenna's sculptures delve into the layers of stories that shape our identity, exploring the desire to shed certain layers while acknowledging their integral role. - Fiona Quigley, inspired by the concept of shedding inhibitions, captures the beauty of nature in mixed media pieces, including acrylic, oil, machine embroidery, and handmade papers. - Suzanne Carrolls studio practice is influenced by her surroundings on the Cooley Mountains. For 'Shed' the work depicts the now extinct Giant Irish Red Deer. Many examples of its antlers, which it sheds annually, have been found preserved in our peat bogs and ancient lakes. As we marvel at the spread of this magnificent creature's crowning glory Suzanne encourages the viewer to consider the National Parks and Wildlifes Red list of threatened native species and asks how many more of our native species are we prepared to shed from the delicately balanced ecosystem on our island. - Mary Cowan explores an old, abandoned shed near where she lives, creating a series of ceramic sculptures inspired by the treasures found inside. -Cathy McKeowns large vivid paintings explore the duality of spaces as inside and outside. Following the exhibition in Dundalk, 'Shed' will embark on a journey to Armagh Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre, where it will be on display from May 17th to July 6th, 2024. Visual artist, Orlaith Cullinane from Bridge Street Studios said: "I am thrilled to be part of 'Shed,' an exhibition that goes beyond individual perspectives, uniting the diverse talents of Bridge Street Studios. Through our collective exploration of the theme, we shed light on the beauty, renewal, and layers of stories that define our artistic journey. We cant wait to invite visitors to the Basement Gallery, providing them with the opportunity to explore this collection of artwork that truly reflects the diverse and vibrant creativity of our members. For more information about Bridge Street Studios and the 'Shed' exhibition, please visit www.antain.ie and www.bridgestreetstudios.com Jobs could be in jeopardy at Monticello after the nonprofit organization that owns and operates Thomas Jeffersons former estate decided to put its food vendors under the leadership of an out-of-town management group. That could include jobs at the Farm Table Cafe at the Monticello visitor center as well as at neighboring Jefferson Vineyards, which the Thomas Jefferson Foundation acquired last year, and Michie Tavern, which the foundation announced it was planning to purchase last month. Tobias Dengel, chair of the foundations board, previously told The Daily Progress he did not expect any staff changes at the tavern. But since then, Monticellos leadership has not offered assurances that tavern, or other food service, staff will keep their jobs. It also has not made promises that employee pay will remain the same. Frank Jackson, lead cook for the foundation, said he feels betrayed. All of the foundations food service employees, he told The Daily Progress, will have to reapply for the jobs they already work and those employees will likely be asked to accept lower wages. That goes for food service employees at the tavern, the vineyard and on the mountaintop, all of whom will soon be under the management of Philadelphia-based Constellation Culinary Group. Jackson has resigned in protest, saying he and his colleagues have been left in the dark about what the transition means for their jobs. They have not informed us what jobs will be available, exactly when they will be available, what the interview process will consist of or what the pay schedule will be, Jackson said. Employees at the Farm Table Cafe will all be laid off from their jobs, he said. They were informed that their positions are set to be eliminated by March 1. The way this has happened has been disgustingly awful, and I think theres need for accountability, Jackson said. When the Thomas Jefferson Foundation announced its plan to purchase Michie Tavern from Greg MacDonald, whose family has owned the restaurant for 55 years, it told staff that both the tavern and the rest of the mountaintops food operations would be moved under Constellation this spring. The group was selected because it works with multiple other cultural institutions, running the restaurants of several large museums across the country, Dengel said. Those include the Weill Cafe at Carnegie Hall in New York City, Stir restaurant at the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the catering operations at the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco. We wanted to have a world-class, great culinary experience for our visitors, and we thought bringing someone with experience doing this would be helpful, Dengel said in January. Jackson was told he and other food service workers would need to reapply for their jobs through Constellation. He was not told how much those positions would pay, so he looked at other job listings the group has posted nationwide. What he found worried him: salaries well below what he and others had been making at Monticello. One listing for a cook in Mississippi offered $13 per hour. In Manhattan, a sous chef with a bachelors degree and five years of experience could earn $70,000 a year. A Michelin-starred restaurant in Hamilton, New Jersey, was seeking a sous chef with that same degree and experience, offering a salary of $60,000. I said, I make a little over $50,000 now. Thats four dollars per hour over what I make without those credentials, Jackson recalled. To make $60,000 at a Michelin restaurant as a sous chef with a bachelors is pretty laughable. It should be in the $90,000-to-$120,000 ballpark. He said he ultimately determined that even if he reapplied and got his job back, it would come with a pay cut. And no one at Monticello, an institution he said he loves, offered him any reassurance. Theres no empirical evidence that Ill make more than I do now. There is evidence Ill make less, Jackson said. No one has told me its going to be all right. No one says were going to watch out for you. No one says youll be taken care of. When Dengel wrote to Monticello staff about the Michie Tavern purchase and Constellations introduction, he included a note of appreciation. It was important for me to reach out personally to assure you that the board whole-heartedly supports the staff and recognizes your hard work and commitment, Dengel wrote. He later told The Daily Progress he didnt expect Michie Tavern staff to be put out of work. His team being taken care of is really important to [MacDonald] and to us, he said. The Daily Progress could not reach MacDonald for comment. Constellation currently has 32 jobs listed in Charlottesville, including dishwashers and executive chefs. None of the listings include salary estimates. The group did not answer directly when The Daily Progress asked if Michie Tavern staff would be retained after the transition, nor if they would see pay cuts. Constellation Culinary Group is excited to provide opportunities for current employees to continue to be a part of the Michie Tavern team, while creating additional new positions for talented hospitality and culinary professionals in the broader Charlottesville community, Morgan Bedore of Constellation told The Daily Progress in a statement. Our company maintains a commitment to offering competitive rates that align with industry standards and the local market. Later, when The Daily Progress posed those same questions to the Monticello communications team, no assurances were offered regarding Michie Tavern staff pay or retainment. Instead, it responded with the exact same statement provided by Bedfore, saying that statement was attributable to a Monticello spokesperson. Jackson said he can remember visiting Monticello with his grandmother as a young boy and being in awe of the fabled residence and UNESCO World Heritage Site once home to Jefferson, author of the Declaration of Independence, founder of the University of Virginia, the countrys first secretary of state and third president. As a history buff, serving guests at the lauded institution was part of the allure of the job, Jackson said. But criticism of the estates owner and operator has mounted over the past year as several high-ranking officials have departed without explanation, including former President Leslie Greene Bowman, renowned Jefferson scholars Annette Gordon-Reed and Peter Onuf, the winemaker known as the Father of Virginia Wine Gabriele Rausse and more than a dozen others. Jackson said he views those changes, and the lack of full transparency from those officials that have remained, as part of a distressing pattern. Jefferson said to follow the truth wherever it may lead. Thats something were not doing these days at Monticello, Jackson said. I think its important the truth come out. Another firefighter has resigned from Monroe Rural Fire Protection District amid an investigation into the agencys fire chief and allegations of a wrongful termination. The departure leaves the district with only one paid employee. Last month, five volunteer firefighters, nearly half of Monroes crew, resigned from the district in solidarity with an employee who was allegedly terminated in retaliation. A Place to Sleep, episode 9: Sleep The latest episode is here, and this time we put a lot less emphasis on the word "place" and a lot more on "sleep." A tort claim notice, usually a precursor to a lawsuit, alleges acting-in-capacity Lt Roselyn Baker was wrongfully terminated two hours after delivering a written complaint to Chief Chris Barnes about unwanted behavior. The tort claim alleges unlawful whistleblowing retaliation, sexual harassment, gender discrimination, battery, and wrongful termination. Shortly after the termination, five volunteer firefighters penned a letter of no confidence in Barnes leadership, resigning from Monroe Rural Fire Protection District. The letter demands that district's leaders place the chief on administrative leave and to start an investigation. If those actions were taken, the firefighters then would ask for immediate reinstatement, they wrote. On Feb. 1, the district Board of Directors unanimously voted to hire an outside investigator to look into Barnes' actions but did not place him on administrative leave. Another resignation On Friday, Feb. 2, Deputy Chief Kyler Crocker submitted a letter of voluntary resignation, a copy of which Mid-Valley Media obtained through a public records request. I have an ethical, moral and legal obligation to uphold those I serve and serve with. The Monroe Fire District has fallen short regarding this serious issue, and I can no longer stand by hoping the right thing will be done," Crocker wrote. "I wish I could say I left Monroe Fire in a better place than it was, but I unfortunately cannot due to these circumstances caused by a lack of integrity. Crocker declined to comment for this article. Before the termination and slew of resignations, Monroes fire department had three paid firefighters and 11 volunteers. Following Crocker's resignation, Barnes is the sole remaining paid firefighter. Resigned firefighters say they are concerned with the department's ability to meet the needs of the community amid the staff exodus. Those who resigned responded to the vast majority of calls for service, the Jan. 23 no confidence letter said. In a previous statement, Barnes said that training attendance had been up. However, he was not able to be reached before the deadline of this story to make a comment about how the latest resignation may affect Monroe Fires response times and capabilities. In a Thursday, Feb. 8 board meeting, it was reported that several volunteers who had not been active members in the district had returned to service over the past week. Legal repercussions The tort claim notice against Chief Barnes and board member Alan Rutherford says several laws may have been broken, including the Oregon Workplace Fairness Act which prohibits any conduct at work that a reasonable person in the individual's circumstances would consider unwelcome, intimidating, hostile, threatening, violent, abusive or offensive as well as violating her constitutional right to freedom of speech. Baker was terminated after submitting a complaint to Barnes, according to the notice. That letter, which is included in the tort claim notice, describes an incident that made Baker feel extremely uncomfortable. On Jan. 16, Baker, the sole employee who performed EMT duties, was tending to a patient in a Benton County home, according to the tort notice. Wanting to call more medics to the scene, Barnes approached Baker from behind and grabbed her radio, yanking it several times before freeing it from her belt, the letter she wrote Barnes, dated Jan. 22, says. I request that you simply ask when something is needed. This action reflects an issue of respect and awareness to those involved, the letter reads. Baker had previously reported a hostile work environment when she reported Chief Barnes display of sexual material in the workplace, the Feb.1 tort claim notice says. Baker was allegedly terminated two hours after delivering the Jan. 22 letter. Quality journalism doesn't happen without your help Support local news coverage and the people who report it by becoming a subscriber today. An updated tort claim notice names Barnes and board member Alan Rutherford directly. Chief Christopher Barnes and Alan Rutherford are individually named for unlawful retaliation and aiding and or abetting you in the lawful discrimination and termination of Ms. Baker, the violation of her due process rights and violation of her First Amendment rights, the notice read. Rutherford is included because he signed Bakers final check, the notice reads. A copy of that check is included in the tort claim notice. The Board of Directors met twice this week. On Wednesday, Feb. 7, it held a closed session under the guise of conferring with legal counsel regarding current or potential litigation. A Mid-Valley Media reporter attended the meeting, however journalists are barred from reporting what was said at these closed meetings. On Thursday Feb. 8, a regularly scheduled board meeting was held. During the meeting, it was reported that six or seven lesser active volunteers had returned to service over the past week, some with about 20 years of service. Related stories: A Cork councillor has formally complained to the Commissioner for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) about the citys discoloured water. The complaint, which was lodged by Green Party councillor Oliver Moran, comes as several areas of the citys northside, and parts of the southside, have suffered intermittently from discoloured water. In some cases the issue has persisted for months. Independent The CRU is the independent regulator of energy and water supply, but the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the States environment watchdog, has said it is also investigating water quality in the city. Mr Moran told The Echo he had been contacted by people whose washing machines, showers, and laundry had been ruined by poor-quality water. Its going on 18 months now and theres just no end in sight, and its having really significant effects on peoples lives, Mr Moran said. Several parts of the city have been affected by persistent discolouring in the drinking supply since the summer of 2022, when the then Irish Water opened its 40m Lee Road water-treatment plant. Chemicals In October 2022, Irish Water said an adjustment of the chemicals it used in water preparation had caused rusty sediment to be stripped from the inside of several of the citys cast-iron water mains, resulting in discoloured water. Since 2022, the water utility company has received 95 reports from people in Cork city suffering from illnesses suspected of having been caused by water consumption, compared to just one such complaint in 2020 and two in 2021. The now renamed Uisce Eireann has repeatedly advised consumers not to drink discoloured water, but has said the drinking water in Cork city is safe. A public meeting is planned for midday on Saturday, outside Uisce Eireanns Cork offices on Eglinton St. Its not acceptable that people are still having to put up with brown and orange tap water, ruined laundry, and the cost of stocking up with bottled water, Cork North Central Socialist TD Mick Barry told The Echo. Uisce Eireann was asked for comment. THE prosecution, in its closing speech at the trial of a Ukrainian motorist who denies dangerous driving causing the death of GAA broadcaster Paudie Palmer, said the jury could rely on eye-witness evidence from the accused man himself when he texted messages to friends on the day. The defence emphasised the fact that the deceased was not wearing a seatbelt and that the late Mr Palmer was allegedly driving on the incorrect side of the road just before the collision at the junction. Bohdan Bezverkhyi, aged 33, of Rigsdale House, Rigsdale, Ballinhassig, Co Cork, denies the most serious charge of dangerous driving causing the death of Mr Palmer at Dunkereen Cross, Innishannon, Co Cork, on December 29, 2022. He pleaded guilty to five other charges related to his failure to remain at the scene and dangerous driving at another time and place December 28, 2022, on the main Cork-Kerry road, the N22. Prosecution barrister Brendan Kelly said the case was that: Mr Bezverkhyi went through the stop sign and struck Mr Palmers car described as a granny driver by Colette Crowley [previous witness] who knew him struck his car into the ditch. It is not the case that Mr Palmers car was on the wrong side of the road [before the collision]. That is simply not true. It all leads to one inexorable conclusion, that he drove through a stop sign striking Mr Palmers car and this was dangerous driving by Mr Bezverkhyi. Mr Kelly said there was technical evidence as to the damage to the defendants 2.5litre petrol-fuelled BMW and Mr Palmers Peugeot 206 after the collision which the jury could consider. He said there was an ear witness, the neighbour who heard a revving of a car driving along the road past her gate. Mr Kelly said it was the prosecution case that this was the sound of the defendants car before the collision. But you also have an eye witness Mr Bezverkhyi himself when he texted numerous people that day. And he was speaking honestly then, talking to these individuals when he said: I blame myself for it I left the scene of a traffic accident, drunk, there is no excuse for me, I am guilty of it all. There is your eye witness. There is the truth of it. What killed the late Mr Palmer was Mr Bezverkhyi driving at speed, going through a stop sign when he should not have, connecting with Mr Palmers car. Not wearing the seatbelt is not the thing that caused his death, it was the driving by Mr Bezverkhyi, Mr Kelly said. Seamus Roche, defence senior counsel, said of the late Mr Palmer in his closing speech to the jury: If he was not wearing a seatbelt that would indicate a certain lack of care on his part, and I dont wish to cause offence when I say that. Mr Roche said there were two aspects to the allegations in the contested charge, firstly that the driving was dangerous, and secondly that it caused Mr Palmers death. The accused was trying to edge out as best he could [at the junction to get better visibility]. Perhaps he overdid it and makes a mistake but that does not amount to dangerous driving. That is the legal position. Mr Roche said the technical evidence on the examination of the cars and the crash scene by Garda Raymond Sweeney was somewhat impenetrable and did not identify the exact point of impact. On the basis of the evidence, it is very difficult to say where the point of impact was or even how the accident occurred. The cause of death is highly sensitive. The evidence is there that Mr Palmer was not wearing a seatbelt. The pathologist, Dr Margaret Bolster, said that wearing seatbelts is very important. Injuries were consistent with being thrown about in the car. It is difficult evidence to hear. Nevertheless it is there. In my submission you have to consider this. Mr Bezverkhyi certainly indicates in interview that he left the scene because he was afraid, he was in shock. Perhaps he did not have the fortitude to remain at the scene. That is reprehensible. And perhaps there is bravado in what he said to others [in the texts]. Judge Colin Daly will address the five women and seven men of the jury at Cork Circuit Criminal Court before they commence their deliberations tomorrow. Ballinspittle was yesterday flooded for the second time in three months, with public representatives for the area calling for supports for those affected, and for a flood-defence scheme to be fast-tracked. Speaking yesterday Fine Gael senator Tim Lombard said: Its been an awful morning for people in Ballinspittle as homes and businesses were flooded again early this morning after torrential rainfall. The fire service did a terrific job this morning and theres no doubt that damage would have been even worse without their quick response. Two things are needed here for Ballinspittle and other areas impacted by flooding. Fast-tracking of flood relief schemes and a rolling humanitarian fund that is available immediately rather than waiting for a ministerial order. Ive spoken to Patrick ODonovan, minister of state with responsibility for Office of Public Works this morning on this and have also been in contact with both minister Simon Coveney and minister Heather Humphreys in relation to making the Emergency Business Flooding Scheme and Humanitarian scheme available to those impacted. Torrent Mr Lombard said at 5am, a torrent of rain came down through the valley and washed out businesses, restaurants, and several residential properties, leaving them badly damaged. He called for the Government to fast-track the flood protection process, saying that currently, it involves so much regarding environmental impacts and everything else, that the actual process takes too long, meaning places like Ballinspittle are left vulnerable to repeated flooding of the same homes and businesses. There should be a rolling fund, we shouldnt be waiting for the minister to announce it. When you have an issue, when you are affected by a flood, you should not be waiting for a ministerial order, it should be there automatically so that you can actually get funding, he said. Cork South West TD Christopher OSullivan has also raised the issue, writing to Ms Humphreys and Mr Coveney to seek an extension of the flood-support schemes to include the businesses and residences that have been flooded in Ballinspittle. Mr OSullivan said: It is devastating to hear the news that businesses and residences have once again experienced flooding in this beautiful village. My thoughts are with the premises owners who are clearing damage from the floods. I have written to minister Heather Humphreys and minister Simon Coveney seeking an extension of the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme for homeowners and also the Emergency Business Flood Relief Scheme, so that they would be extended to include the businesses and residences impacted by todays flooding, said Mr OSullivan. I know flood works have been approved for Ballinspittle, but it is vital now both the OPW and the local authority expedites these flooding works so that business owners and residents can finally sleep at night in the knowledge that their homes will not flood. A CORK restaurateur who every year gives Penny Dinners volunteers a free slap-up meal has said he does it partly for his late son. It has become a New Year tradition in recent times that Cook Street Italian restaurant Il Padrino treats volunteers from Cork Penny Dinners to dinner, and this year proved no exception, with 40 people sitting down to a three-course meal. Peyman Nasser, proprietor of Il Padrino, told The Echo he felt it was the least that volunteers from the Little Hanover Street charity deserved after a busy Christmas in which they served over 1,000 meals most days. Diarmuid O'Leary pictured with Erick and David Soto at the recent courtesy dinner for the volunteers of Penny Dinners in the Il Padrino Restaurant in Cook Street. Picture: Howard Crowdy Mr Nasser, a Tehran native who has lived here for over 30 years, revealed that a personal tragedy had informed his involvement with the charity. Ive been involved in Penny Dinners the past five years since my son passed away, because my son Shayan was very active with them. Shayan was 19, a first-year social sciences student at UCC, when he died unexpectedly five years ago from a pre-existing medical condition. Eilish Kearney, Patsy McCarthy and Sheikla Casell seen at the recent courtesy dinner for the volunteers of Penny Dinners in the Il Padrino Restaurant in Cook Street. Picture: Howard Crowdy I remember before he passed, on January 31 five years ago, Shayan woke up on Christmas Day and about 6am or 7am he came over to the restaurant and he cooked about 200 turkey dinners for Penny Dinners, I joined him later, but it was his initiative, Mr Nasser said. He said that in the years since Shayans passing, he had made close friends among the volunteers of Cork Penny Dinners. Michelle Lomasnee, Francisco Flores and Eddie Nodwell seen at the recent courtesy dinner for the volunteers of Penny Dinners in the Il Padrino Restaurant in Cook Street. Picture: Howard Crowdy It became customary for us to help Penny Dinners on a regular basis, in whatever way we can, and we found that the volunteers feed thousands of people on a weekly basis. If we didnt have these volunteers, this city would have a huge crisis. He added that he was in awe of the work of the volunteers, and of Penny Dinners volunteer co-ordinator Caitriona Twomey. I adore that woman because she is so courageous and Im proud to be associated with her in a very small way. Among the Penny Dinners volunteers to enjoy a free dinner at Il Padrino was Cork Special Olympian gold medallist Colm Monaghan, who said he works in the charity at Christmas time, in between his other work commitments. Tony Gardiner and Eoin Wyer seen at the recent courtesy dinner for the volunteers of Penny Dinners in the Il Padrino Restaurant in Cook Street.Picture: Howard Crowdy I work with Lota canteen three days a week in Glanmire and I work in the Chapel Gate Cafe in Ballincollig Tuesdays and Wednesdays, he explained. Mr Monaghan was wearing his Olympic medals for the occasion, having come first in the world in singles in badminton and fourth in the world in doubles at last summers World Games in Berlin. He has taken the Christmas rush in Penny Dinners in his stride It was busy enough and he said the meal in Il Padrino was a very generous treat for all of the volunteers. Attending the recent courtesy dinner for the volunteers of Penny Dinners in the Il Padrino Restaurant in Cook Street were volunteers Anthony Hennigan, Caroline Murphy and Frank Burns. Picture: Howard Crowdy Anthony Hennigan, who also works in the Mercy University Hospital, said he had been volunteering since I was 15 or 16 and Im 28 now and now he works in Penny Dinners on his days off. I try and help out whenever I can, going in around 8am and staying until about 2.30pm, he said. Fausto Gil, a volunteer from Honduras, has been part of Penny Dinners for a year. Anthony O'Byrne and Louise Keenan seen at the courtesy dinner for the volunteers of Penny Dinners in the Il Padrino Restaurant in Cook Street. Picture: Howard Crowdy We arrived just in January last year, we learned about the place the first day we arrive here, they opened their doors to us and it has been a great help to us in our integration here. Its a great place to spend time and help others, he said. A 63,000 stash of cannabis and cocaine was found in a Garda search of a shipping container in Cork, and now one of the men involved has been given a fully suspended sentence. Scott Hughes had faced the possibility of minimum sentence of 10 years because of the scale of the drugs crime, but Judge Colin Daly said that exceptional circumstances of this case allowed him to depart from the mandatory minimum sentence. Judge Daly said the exceptional and specific circumstances for Scott Hughes, of Briars Court, Shanakiel, Cork, included what the judge described as a diagnosis of a rare, long-term, life-limiting medical condition which would require medical care outside of Ireland. He said that serving a prison sentence would be exceptionally difficult for the accused in those circumstances. Judge Daly imposed a four-year sentence which was fully suspended, on condition that the accused would have no further offences in the next four years. Detective Sergeant Fergal Long said the accused was caught in this enterprise within two months of his release from prison on another sentence from drug-dealing. The 42-year-old pleaded guilty to having drugs for sale or supply at New Park, Centre Park Road, Cork, on June 9, 2021, at a time when the value of the drugs exceeded 13,000 the threshold figure for the minimum sentence of 10 years. Det Sgt Long said a container on Centre Park Road was the focus of the garda search on the occasion. Gardai went to the container and found the accused man and an accomplice at this location. A large quantity of cannabis was found in a cabinet within the container. The accomplice had leased the container in a false name. Det Sgt Long said the accused was interviewed. He made full and frank admissions, and said his role was to weigh, bag cannabis and cocaine, and bring it to customers across Cork city. He was only out of jail since April 2021, the detective said. The sentence he completed two months before this crime was detected was for having cocaine and cannabis at his residence. Defence senior counsel Ray Boland put it to the witness, at Cork Circuit Criminal Court, that the defendants accomplice was the main organiser of this enterprise. He replied that Mr Hughes was a willing participant in the criminal scheme to prepare drugs for distribution across Cork city. The accomplice was dealt with previously. He was described at his sentencing hearing as being addicted to drugs and owing a large drug debt. A sentence of three years was imposed on him, with the last six months suspended. He was also convicted of a money laundering offence, in relation to 2,310 cash found in his possession in the course of this investigation. URGENT refurbishment works are needed at a Cork swimming pool, because of safety concerns over the condition of the building, it has been claimed. Video footage at the Gus Healy swimming pool, seen by The Echo, showed multiple leaks in the roof. The pool, on Nursery Drive in Ballinlough, is managed by LeisureWorld, on behalf of Cork City Council. Speaking to The Echo, Fine Gael councillor Shane OCallaghan expressed concern over the condition of the facility, which he said needs a major upgrade. Its reached the point, now, where its a health-and-safety concern and I think that something needs to be done urgently, in terms of funding a major refurbishment of the place. The clubs involved there, the people who attend there, have been looking for funding for a major refurbishment for years now, but its coming to the point, now, where it cant wait any longer. It has to be done. Its not good enough. Its turning into a major health-and-safety hazard, Mr OCallaghan said. Last month, the Labour Party candidate in the citys South East ward, Peter Horgan, wrote to Cork City Council, requesting that the local authority apply for state funding to revamp the pool. A new round of large-scale infrastructure investment is opening soon, Mr Horgan told The Echo at the time. The Gus Healy swimming pool, in Ballinlough, is well overdue for an upgrade. It is in the ownership of the local authority and services a large number of schools and clubs in the immediate area. It deserves to be state-of-the-art. Speaking this week, Mr Horgan called on Cork City Council to move swiftly and proactively to repair the damage, firstly, for safety reasons. They should move swiftly and proactively to apply for funding from the Government to enhance Gus Healy swimming pool, Mr Horgan said. This is an urgent matter. We cant allow the pool to go to wrack and ruin. A spokesperson for Cork City Council said: There is an issue with a very small section of roof at the Gus Healy pool at the moment. We have a contractor examining the issue for us. Drugs worth 800 were discovered in the car of a West Cork fisherman who came to garda attention because he had parked awkwardly at a service station, Macroom District Court was told. On January 21, 2023, at around 1pm, gardai observed a black Audi car badly parked at the Inver petrol station at Gurteenroe, Macroom, Co Cork, the court heard. When gardai spoke to the owner of the vehicle, Andreas Babic, 46, of Toormore, Castletownbere, Co Cork, there was a strong smell of cannabis from inside the car. The car was searched and cannabis worth 800 was discovered in a bag in the footwell. Mr Babic had two previous convictions, one for motoring offences and one for a public-order offence, the court heard. At the time that his car was searched, Mr Babic was banned from driving, though he said he was not aware of this. Defence solicitor Jack Purcell said his client was married and has a 12-year-old daughter. He said that Mr Babic had attended counselling to address his drug issues. Judge James McNulty said: You have a daughter, she will be a teenager soon, what are you going to tell her? There must be an awful smell in the house. Judge McNulty requested that Mr Babic provide a saliva sample and adjourned the case for one month to allow him to provide proof that he had attended counselling, as he claimed. Cork City Council has reiterated a warning about what it described as very high astronomical spring tides from this evening through the weekend that are predicted to cause localised flooding in parts of the city. These coincide with a tidal surge that has been forecast to occur simultaneously which, when combined, will result in unnaturally high tide levels. The authority has said high tides this weekend will peak at 5.20pm on Friday evening, 5.45am and 6.05pm on Saturday and 6.30am and 6.49 pm on Sunday. The authority warned all five high tides will result in some water flooding onto roads and parking areas along low lying quays. However, specifically for Saturday mornings tidal event, householders and business owners are asked to protect their property e.g. erect their flood barriers on Friday evening and leave them in place overnight until Saturday morning, said a council spokesperson. There is risk of tidal flooding in the city centre due to the 5.45am tide on Saturday morning. This high tide will be the highest of the weekend and has the potential to affect properties on low lying quays. The authority warned it was highly likely that flooding will occur in the following areas and that people should take appropriate action to protect their properties. Morrisons Quay, Fr. Mathew Quay, Fr. Mathew Street, Union Quay, Trinity Bridge, South Terrace, Rutland Street, Sawmill Street, Crosses Green, Sharman Crawford St, Wandesford Quay and South Mall (particularly the southern side). Motorists are advised not to park on any of these streets on Friday night into Saturday morning, with road flooding likely to occur on Saturday morning on Kyrls Quay, Lavitts Quay, Lapps Quay, Probys Quay, Frenchs Quay and Sullivans Quay. Cork City Council will be closing Sharmon Crawford Street and Wandsford Quay to traffic from 5:15am on Saturday and re-opening both to traffic again at 6:30am. Road users are asked to travel with extra care and attention on Saturday morning from 5.15am to 6.30am as it is likely that roads could have surface water. Please avoid driving on flooded streets and take alternative routes instead, said the spokesperson. There is no river (fluvial) or rain (pluvial) flooding predicted this weekend across the city, only city centre tidal flooding due to the spring tides combined with the atmospheric weather conditions". A crime of passion saw a 43-year-old Cork woman stab another woman 14 times with a screwdriver in her own home because she believed the victim was having liaisons with her partner. Three of the stab wounds were to the face, three to the scalp and five of them were to the stomach. Detective Sergeant Kieran OSullivan gave evidence in the sentencing hearing following Jennifer Cronins plea of guilty to a charge of assault causing harm to another woman and producing a screwdriver during the attack. The incident occurred on October 11, 2021. Shortly before 10am that morning she drove her own car to the home of the injured party at Lagan Grove in Mayfield. She exited the vehicle. The injured partys family were there. Ms Cronin produced a screwdriver and attempted to assault the injured party. She stabbed her 14 times with the screwdriver. An emergency services doctor arrived at the scene and found she had very serious injuries and was taken to Cork University hospital. Prior to the assault, Jennifer Cronin stopped and spoke to a male who was known to both parties. During this conversation she said she had a screwdriver. Jennifer Cronin said to this male, Im going to stick that in her. Jennifer Cronin was arrested two days later. She is 43 and has a total of 51 previous convictions dating from November 1990 to March 2022. She has two Section 2 (simple) assault convictions. The injured party did not want to make a victim impact statement. Jennifer Cronin said to the probation officer that this was not a planned assault. I disagree with that. Her intention was to cause harm to this lady, Det. Sgt. OSullivan testified at Cork Circuit Criminal Court. Jennifer Cronin, who is living at Brooklodge Grove, Glanmire, County Cork, was represented by barrister Jeff Hitchmough who said the defendant had not come to the attention of gardai since this incident. She accepts full responsibility for her actions on the day. What brought it all about was that she went to confront her about her liaisons with her (Ms Cronins) partner. She did not set out to assault her but she saw red. It is out of character. She said she acted on impulse. Her view was that (the injured party) had liaisons with her partner. It is to a certain extent a crime of passion. She is very sorry for what she has done, Mr Hitchmough said. The barrister accepted that there was both bad and good in the probation report but said in relation to the high risk of reoffending that she had not offended since October 2021 when this assault occurred. Judge Colin Daly said he would consider the prosecution evidence and the defence submissions and sentence Ms Cronin on February 12. The jury hearing the weeklong trial of a Ukrainian motorist who denies dangerous driving causing the death of GAA broadcaster Paudie Palmer deliberated throughout today without reaching a verdict. Judge Colin Daly asked the jury to come back to courtroom 5 at Cork Circuit Criminal Court at 5.20 pm today, following five hours of deliberation. They had reached the point in their deliberations earlier in the afternoon when the judge told them that a majority 10-2 or 11-1 verdict would be acceptable if they could not reach a unanimous verdict. However, they said at 5.20 pm that they had not reached a verdict. Judge Daly then sent them home and directed them to return at 10 am on Monday, February 12 to resume their deliberations. The judge repeated his warnings to them that they should not discuss the case even with their closest friends or family, they should not read media reports of the case and they should not read about it on social media. 33-year-old Bohdan Bezverkhyi, of Rigsdale House, Rigsdale, Ballinhassig, County Cork, denies the most serious charge of dangerous driving causing the death of Mr Palmer at Dunkereen Cross, Innishannon, Co Cork, on December 29 2022. He pleaded guilty to five other charges related to his failure to remain at the scene and dangerous driving at another time and place - December 28 2022 on the main Cork-Kerry road, the N22. The five women and seven men of the jury asked one question in the course of the afternoon at Cork Circuit Criminal Court. They asked about texts sent by the accused man to friends on the day of the accident: How should we interpret from the accuseds text, that he was drunk? They were told that this was a question of fact that they would have to resolve. ITS awards season for the restaurant and hospitality industry, and Cork continues to notch up the wins for what the county has to offer. In the recent Virgin Media Gold Medal Awards, rising culinary star Meeran Manzoor scooped Irelands Best Chef of the Year. As Executive Head Chef of The Blue Haven in Kinsale, Meeran has been turning heads and tantalising taste buds in the hotels fine dining restaurant, Rare 1784, with its unique fusion of Irish seasonal produce, classical French technique and ancient Chettinad cuisine from his Indian homeland. Food critics are continually excited by the creativity flowing from Manzoors kitchen, and I can only see a bright future for him. Originality, authenticity and consistency are the hallmarks of what inspectors are looking for in the worlds most anticipated and recognisable food awards: The Michelin Guide. On Monday the guide announced its awards for the UK and Ireland Guide, and Ireland as well as Cork did extremely well. A quick recap on the Michelin rankings: - Michelin Guide Entrant: included in the Guide as a place worth a stop. - Michelin Bib Gourmand: good food at a reasonable price. - Michelin Green Star: restaurants committed to sustainable gastronomy. - Michelin Stars: 1, 2 and 3. Kate Ryan at her home in Ballygurteen, Co Cork. Picture Dan Linehan So how did the rest of Ireland do? Kickys in Dublin entered the Guide; Amy Austin, Lotties and La Gordita in Dublin, Solas Tapas in Dingle and Home in Belfast all came away with a new Bib Gourmand; DOlier Street in Dublin, Homestead Cottage in Doolin and The Bishops Buttery in Cashel all received their first Michelin Star. And Cork? After handing back his Michelin Star and taking a huge gamble to reshape his restaurant into a casual dining bistro and natural wine bar, Takashi Miyazaki was rewarded with a new Bib Gourmand for Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine. A huge achievement after being open for just a few short weeks as this new reincarnation, boding well for the gamble paying off. Chef Vincent Crepel, whose restaurant Terre at Castlemartyr resort. In 2023, newly opened Terre in Castlemartyr surprised no-one when it was awarded a star a few months after opening, and for 2024 it was the hottest of hot tips for picking up a second star which it did. Alongside Dede at The Customs House in Baltimore, who retained both of their stars for another year, Cork now boasts two Two Michelin Star restaurants bookending the county east and west. Its a far cry from a few short years ago when there was barely a whiff of any such recognition. It has been a long time coming; Corks reputation as the breadbasket of Ireland is decades in the making and where most of Irelands speciality food producers call home. Any chef looking to establish a restaurant in Ireland, where every ingredient they could possibly wish for is available on their doorstep, should be considering Cork as the epicentre of Irish contemporary cuisine and food culture. Many have done, and now the accolades are coming in thick and fast. But I have questions, still. The only Michelin Green Star in the country is with Kai in Galway. Although I dont question this is a good and sound choice, I struggle to understand why Goldie Fish & Ale in Cork isnt a recipient. As Irelands only specialised restaurant to consider the fish from gill to fin, working with sustainable day boats on a whole catch basis and making every bit of it shine and taste delicious, it should reasonably be a shoo-in for a Green Star. Michelin clearly think otherwise. The speed with which some restaurants receive a Michelin nod often causes furtive whispers among those to who such things stand out. But many new restaurants are conceived and designed with Michelin in mind. Planning forward rather than retrospective action seems to smooth the path somewhat. Takashi Miyazaki, of Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine. Then there is the case for what it costs to dine at a one - or two-star restaurant. One of the reasons Miyazaki gave for handing back his star and going with a completely different concept was that, in effect, he missed the Regular Joe customer and that being a special occasion restaurant wasnt hitting the spot for him professionally and creatively. On the other hand, there is a cohort of restaurant go-er that will only dine in restaurants listed in the famous red guidebook, and any tourism professional will tell you Culinary Tourism is a very valuable part of Irelands visitor experience. Notwithstanding, Michelin Guide gauges the barometer for a certain kind of dining experience well. Cork now has twelve red-book nods in total between the book, bib and stars which, when considered in the round by anyone looking to figure out where is hot in Ireland to dine out, makes for a very compelling food story for the Rebel County. Check out the full Michelin Guide for the UK and Ireland at www.guide.michelin.com/ie/en By Cate McCurry and Grainne Ni Aodha, PA Minister for Justice Helen McEntee has said some protesters know exactly who is behind suspected arson attacks on buildings and urged them to come forward. Gardai and the Government have been grappling with a series of incidents at premises rumoured to be used for asylum seekers, with the Minister for Finance warning on Thursday that there is a real risk of someone being killed. Ms McEntee said some protesters could be complicit if they do not come forward with information. Gardai are making good progress and I welcome that, she told RTE News. We will be absolutely relentless in supporting them to track down those who are responsible for these vile crimes, crimes which carry a maximum sentence of up to life in prison, but we cannot leave it just to the gardai. There are people right across the country, some people who are protesting, who know exactly who are responsible. By not coming forward with information, you are complicit, so I am calling on those who have information to come forward before these fires cost somebody their life. I believe that there are people right across the country who have information, who know the people who are responsible for carrying out these vile crimes, and I am asking them to come forward before somebody loses their life. Ms McEntee made the comments as the Government was accused in the Dail of doing almost nothing about the escalation of attacks on properties earmarked for refugees. People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy said there had been 26 arson attacks in the last five years against premises rumoured to be used for asylum seekers. Speaking in the Dail, he said ordinary people must take a stand against the terrorism of the far right. He said rumours emerge online suggesting a property is going to be used and far-rights activists arrive in the area, and a few days later the property is burned down. People Before Profits Paul Murphy (Brian Lawless/PA) Mr Murphy named several people who are quick to the scene when buildings are rumoured to be housing refugees, but later said he was not linking those people to the arson attacks. We should call what we are seeing what it is. We are witnessing a campaign of far-right terrorism in this state, Mr Murphy said. And what has been the response? Almost nothing. Nobody charged, fiddling while the country burns. We finally have three arrests this morning for the arson in Ringsend. Minister for Finance Michael McGrath said gardai are doing everything to address the heinous crimes, but arson attacks are difficult to solve. We utterly condemn any criminal act, where properties are being deliberately set on fire. It is arson. It is a criminal act and the gardai are investigating, he told the Dail. Youve acknowledged arrests have been made today in one particular case, but the best thing that we can do is to reaffirm our support for the work of An Garda Siochana, that we will give them the necessary resources and whatever support that they need to do their work. These are difficult crimes to solve, lets be honest, but they will do everything they possibly can to solve them and to send files to the DPP and ultimately achieve conviction. I think its important that we do stand together and provide our support because these are heinous crimes that could not just end up in damaging or destroying property, but could end up taking human life, and that is the real risk that we are very concerned about. I know you are concerned about it as well. As a Government we have responded as comprehensively as we can with the support of the people to a wave of migration that we have had to respond to because of the war in Ukraine. Mr Murphy blamed social inequalities on the government, accusing Fine Gael and Fianna Fail of neglecting communities. The reason we have a housing crisis is not because of immigration, but its because you push the profits of big developers and landlords ahead of peoples need for a home, the Dublin South West TD said. We have a health crisis because you put the private hospitals and the insurance companies first. We have deep inequalities, we have neglected communities because of Fianna Fail and Fine Gael which have run the stage ever since its foundation. That is why ordinary people need to take a stand against the terrorism of the far right, against the racism, homophobia, sexism and hate that they tried to spread and against the housing crisis and inequality that you have created. Grainne Ni Aodha and David Young, PA Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle ONeill is to attend a PSNI graduation ceremony on Friday, a spokesperson has confirmed. This is the first time that Sinn Fein will attend such a ceremony in the police services history. It comes after Ms ONeill pledged to represent our whole community as she became the first nationalist First Minister of the Northern Ireland Executive. Ms ONeill will attend the event with Policing Board member and Sinn Fein MLA Gerry Kelly. Tomorrow, the PSNI student officer attestation takes place where a number of new recruits will graduate, a Sinn Fein spokesperson said. Michelle ONeill will be in attendance and will join the ceremony. Sinn Fein Policing Board member Gerry Kelly MLA will also attend. Efforts have been made to boost Catholic representation in the PSNI as about a quarter of its force are from a Catholic background. After the major PSNI data breach in August, a representative group said that the recruitment of candidates from the Catholic, nationalist and republican community had been severely dented. DUP MP Gregory Campbell, the partys justice and security spokesperson, said that Sinn Fein attending the PSNI graduation was much better than not going. Twenty-three years later, it is better late than never, he told BBC Radio Ulster. I think I recall around four years ago when there was a similar type of event when Arlene Foster was first minister, and Sinn Fein were extremely reluctant to go then, but if theyre over the line now, thats good. He said he would now like to see Sinn Fein support the recruitment of Catholics, as well as Protestants, to the PSNI. He added: Its an unequivocal welcome for a step that should have occurred many years ago, and hopefully it can lead on to further support for getting people across the community to join the police. Michelle ONeill pledged to represent our whole community as she became the first nationalist First Minister of the Northern Ireland Executive (Liam McBurney/PA) DUP MLA and the partys Policing Board group leader Trevor Clarke said the decision was overdue but welcome. The PSNI was formed in November 2001, therefore whilst late and long overdue, it is good that Sinn Fein has lifted its boycott of PSNI passing out ceremonies, he said. The PSNI has struggled to recruit people from a Roman Catholic background and at least one previous chief constable cited a lack of political leadership within the nationalist community. Undoubtedly, Sinn Feins lack of support of PSNI recruits was a contributing factor. Parts of Cork city and county are at risk of flooding on Friday and Saturday due to "very high astronomical spring tides". A high tide advisory has been issued by Met Eireann which will stay in place until Monday evening. High coastal water levels are expected on Saturday. The period of supermoon spring tides is expected to be "one of the highest during 2024", a spokesperson for Cork County Council said. A tidal flood alert has been issued for low lying quay areas of Cork City for Friday 9 February at 5 p.m. At this time householders and businesses are advised to take necessary precautions to protect property and stay tuned for further updates, see https://t.co/ijSV4NUXf7. pic.twitter.com/Idk8DGJBtB Cork City Council (@corkcitycouncil) February 8, 2024 High tide is expected at 5pm on Friday. Property owners and residents at known coastal risk locations are being advised to take the usual necessary precautions. Minor localised flooding is also predicted along low-lying quays in Cork city including: Morrisons Quay Mathew Quay Mathew Street Union Quay Trinity Bridge South Terrace Rutland Street Sawmill Street Lavitt's Quay Kyrl's Street Kyrl's Quay Crosses Green Probys Quay Sharman Crawford Street Wandesford Quay Cork City Council said its Flood Assessment Team will be monitoring the situation closely and that regular updates will be issued. Householders and businesses are being advised to take the necessary precautions to protect property. 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. Aerial view of Lake Okeechobee, the largest freshwater lake in Florida on Sept. 10, 2022. Water from the lake has naturally flowed south through the Everglades, when unimpeded. Marli Miller / UCG / Universal Images Group via Getty Images Weve made a mess, and now its time to fix it. These are the unspoken mandates of Everglades conservation organizations working to restore healthy freshwater flow through the Sunshine State. Water is life for planet and people. Therefore, when its flow is interrupted or cut off, there are dire consequences. History of Water Flow Freshwater at the south of Lake Okeechobee beginning its southward flow. 6381380 / iStock / Getty Images Plus In Florida, freshwater from Lake Okeechobee in the middle of the state naturally flowed south through the Everglades and into Florida Bay and the present-day Florida Keys. In doing so, it nourished entire ecosystems. According to the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD), farms and communities developed around the lake in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Catastrophic hurricanes in 1926 and 1928 caused millions in damage and deaths by flooding, prompting the government to step in to control the water. The Army Corps of Engineers built a series of canals to severely restrict how much water flows through the state. Instead of coming south through the Everglades, most is now discharged east and west, through concrete sloughs dredged for this specific purpose. The result has been catastrophic for this ecosystem that evolved around the flow of water. One of the most invisible harms is hypersalinity. Hypersalinity Is Getting Worse In general, hypersalinity refers to the salinity in a coastal water body, explained Steve Davis, the chief science officer at The Everglades Foundation. Ocean salinity is roughly 35 parts per thousand (ppt). If youve ever swam in the ocean and tasted it, you know what that is. When salt content gets higher than that of the ocean, we call it hypersalinity. Florida Bay is a body of water that sits south of Everglades National Park, thereby receiving any freshwater flows through that ecosystem. Its flanked by saltwater from the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. As such, its naturally a brackish environment. A Florida Bay drone shot in 2022 shows the difference between algae blooms and clear water. The Everglades Foundation Unfortunately, because of the restricted water flows through the state, Florida Bay currently receives less than half of its historical freshwater flows. Its all driven by water balance, and we changed the plumbing, Davis explained. Its a wetland. If you deprive a wetland of water, especially freshwater, its going to have implications on the habitat and the ecology of the system in general. Basically, because of our water controls at Lake Okeechobee, Florida Bay, an 849 square mile area is becoming hypersaline more often and more intensely than ever before. Freshwater, like the water in Lake Okeechobee, has a salinity of zero. Ocean water typically has a salinity index of 35 ppt and historically, a healthy brackish Florida Bay might have had an index of 40. Florida Bays waters get trapped and evaporate in the shallow estuary, leaving salt behind. This is how the salinity of the bay begins to increase. Additionally, since rainfall helps to bring the salinity down, drought years exacerbate the effects. And, without freshwater coming down through the Everglades, theres nothing to flush the system. Steve Davis takes stock of the massive seagrass dieoff of 2017 following a hypersalinity event. The Everglades Foundation Now, add in our disruptions to the natural flow of water from Lake Okeechobee, exacerbated by droughts and climate change. All this has caused Florida Bays salinity to reach up to 70 to 80 ppt more than double that of the ocean, Davis lamented. In fact, were now at the point where average rainfall still results in salinity higher than the ocean, he said. This is devastating to the ecology and fisheries of Florida Bay, Davis said. Effects hes witnessed have been massive seagrass die offs and intense blooms of toxic algae. Its the downward spiral of the entire ecosystem. It goes from clear water to something that looks like pea soup. Green algae discharges from Lake Okeechobee show an ecosystem in decline. The Everglades Foundation Heat Is a Double Whammy Thats not all. Floridas summers are notoriously, record-breakingly hot. In summer 2023, the heat disrupted the entire marine ecosystem and killed swaths of Floridas already fragile coral reef. The combo of heat and hypersalinity is what is most devastating to the bay, Davis said. Hot, salty water doesnt hold much oxygen, and oxygen is essential to the health of the bay and to large fish species that are highly coveted by anglers. Luckily, good rainfall and more freshwater flow through the current Everglades restoration of the Tamiami Trail prevented a hypersalinity event during the heatwave. But what happens during a drought? Restoration and Combating Climate Change What Everglades restoration does is to push back against all that and keep those areas functioning as brackish areas, rather than hypersaline areas, Davis explained. The Everglades Foundation was formed to replumb South Florida and get water from Lake Okeechobee flowing south again, Davis said. A comprehensive Everglades restoration plan passed in the year 2000, and the Foundations role ever since has been to implement it. This involves constructing major infrastructure projects to free the flow. The key project is an Everglades agricultural reservoir to be built south of Lake Okeechobee. Thats the one that really does heavy lifting to get water south, Davis said. The above-ground reservoir full of freshwater would act as drought insurance for the ecosystem much like a rain barrel. During drier times, water could be used to water plants and agricultural lands and be sent south through the Everglades to Florida Bay. By design, it will be a polluted reservoir because its taking in Lake Okeechobees toxic slime water and agricultural runoff from nearby sugar fields. Wetlands for treatment will surround the reservoir to help get that water clean before its used or sent south. These are engineered, highly managed wetlands, Davis explained. If you stand in the middle of one, youd think it was the Everglades. But its managed through soils, vegetation and how water flows through them to maximize the removal of pollutants and especially phosphorus, which is our primary pollutant. As an important byproduct, the treatment wetlands will also sequester large amounts of phosphorus and carbon, helping to combat the climate crisis. A comparison of historical, current and restored freshwater flow through Florida. The Everglades Foundation Threats to Drinking Water Its our water supply also, Davis said. We cant forget that. Fundamentally, healthy Everglades are also responsible for providing our clean, daily freshwater supply. Hes talking about saltwater intrusion, a phenomenon already happening in South Florida. Sea level rise causes water to intrude deeper inland through the states limestone foundations. With no freshwater coming down the state to refresh underground aquifers, theres no pressure asserted to keep these waters at bay. Saltwater is already penetrating into the Everglades and the Biscayne Aquifer, the states main drinking water supply. Therefore, increasing freshwater flow would help to irrigate the entirety of South Florida, ensure that Florida Bay and nearshore habitats in the Florida Keys dont become too saline, and protect the water supply. Thats a triple win. Restoration Is a Good Investment At Crocodile Point, healthy seagrass is visible through clear water in 2022. The Everglades Foundation The Army Corps of Engineers broke ground on the reservoir project in 2023. Its projected to be a multibillion-dollar project, but the economic benefits will measure well beyond that, experts believe. We commissioned a study in 2010 that showed, conservatively, that Everglades Restoration delivers a 4-to-1 return on investment, Davis said. Thats enormous! Just how much money is that? About $20 billion worth, experts believe, if we follow todays Everglades restoration plan. Opposition and Stakes Sugar cane fields are watered near the coast of Lake Okeechobee in Pahokee, Florida. Marc Serota / Getty Images The main opponent of the reservoir is Big Sugar. Three industrial sugar giants filed a lawsuit to stop construction because they think that water belongs to them, Davis said. All their claims were denied, and they each appealed. The case remains before the Court of Appeals. According to Kelly Cox, Audubon Floridas director of Everglades policy, If Sugar wins their appeal on this, they will hold hostage significant volumes of water that should be sent south to Florida Bay. They dont even use all the water they are already allocated, and theyre asking for more! Everglades restoration is one of our biggest opportunities to build resiliency in South Florida, Cox said. With increasing climate threats to our communities, economy, health, and environment, restoration helps us sequester carbon, safeguards drinking water supplies, reduces storm impacts, and supports industries that rely on a healthy and thriving River of Grass. Improved infrastructure, expanding agro-industry expected to drive Philippines fisheries production's rebound Fisheries production in the Philippines is expected to rebound in 2024 on the back of enhancements to supporting infrastructure and an initiative to develop agro-industrial estates focused on fisheries products, analysts said. "This value chain approach is likely to increase production at all levels," Asis G. Perez, convenor of advocacy group Tugon Kabuhayan, said. The Department of Agriculture (DA) said that it was planning to invest in more infrastructure to support the agri-fisheries sector. Philippines Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. also sought to expand the functions of the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority to develop and manage marine-agro-industrial estates. However, Philippine Association of Fish Producers, Inc. chairman David B. Villaluz said that the aquaculture sub-sector will continue to face challenging conditions due to the increasing price of fish feed. "(Until fish feed prices fall) production will be significantly impacted," Villaluz said. He added that fish producers may reduce their use of feed by 50%, ultimately affecting output levels. "If we are only using natural food in fish ponds, production may drop to 600 to 750 kilogrammes per hectare annually. But if we use (commercially produced) fish feed, production would be 2 to 2.5 metric tonnes per hectare a year," he added. Last year, fisheries production dropped 6.5%, accelerating the 5% decline recorded in the prior year, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority. Perez said that the DA's plan to revive aquaculture in Laguna de Bay will improve output. Laguna de Bay currently produces about 90,000 metric tonnes of freshwater fish annually and provides livelihoods to 13,000 fisherfolk, according to the Laguna Lake Development Authority. "That can be an increased by over 30,000MT a year in bangus (milkfish) and tilapia production. When the previous administration froze new fish cultivation operations (in Laguna de Bay), we lost about 45,000MT of production from the lake alone," Perez added. "The new initiative to build up output from Laguna de Bay will have a tremendous impact on production (output will immediately rise 5%)." Villaluz said the Philippines government should focus on fisheries research and developing low-cost feed. - BusinessWorld Last week, The Browser Company, a startup that makes the Arc web browser, released a slick new iPhone app called Arc Search. Instead of displaying links, its brand new Browse for Me feature reads the first handful of pages and summarizes them into a single, custom-built, Arc-formatted web page using large language models from OpenAI and others. If a user does click through to any of the actual pages, Arc Search blocks ads, cookies and trackers by default. Arcs efforts to reimagine web browsing have received near-universal acclaim. But over the last few days, Browse for Me earned The Browser Company its first online backlash. For decades, websites have served ads and pushed people visiting them toward paying for subscriptions. Monetizing traffic is one of the primary ways most creators on the web continue to make a living. Reducing the need for people to visit actual websites deprives those creators of compensation for their work, and disincentivizes them from publishing anything at all. Web creators are trying to share their knowledge and get supported while doing so, tweeted Ben Goodger, a software engineer who helped create both Firefox and Chrome. I get how this helps users. How does it help creators? Without them there is no web After all, if a web browser sucked out all information from web pages without users needing to actually visit them, why would anyone bother making websites in the first place? The backlash has prompted the companys co-founder and CEO Josh Miller to question the fundamental nature of how the web is monetized. Miller, who was previously a product director at the White House and worked at Facebook after it acquired his previous startup, Branch, told Goodger on X that how creators monetize web pages needs to evolve. He also told Platformers Casey Newton that generative AI presents an opportunity to shake up the stagnant oligopoly that runs much of the web today but admitted that he didnt know how writers and creators who made the actual website that his browser scrapes from would be compensated. It completely upends the economics of publishing on the internet, he admitted. Miller declined to speak to Engadget, and The Browser Company did not respond to Engadgets questions. Arc set itself apart from other web browsers by fundamentally rethinking how web browsers look and work ever since it was released to the general public in July last year. It did this by adding features like the ability to split multiple tabs vertically and offering a picture-in-picture mode for Google Meet video conferences. But for the last few months, Arc has been rapidly adding AI-powered features such as automatic web page summaries, ChatGPT integration and giving users the option to switch their default search engine to Perplexity, a Google rival that uses AI to provide answers to search queries by summarizing web pages in a chat-style interface and providing tiny citations to sources. The Browse for Me feature lands Arc smack in the middle of one of AIs biggest ethical quandaries: who pays creators when AI products rip off and repurpose their content? The best thing about the internet is that somebody super passionate about something makes a website about the thing that they love, tech entrepreneur and blogging pioneer Anil Dash told Engadget. This new feature from Arc intermediates that and diminishes that. In a post on Threads shortly after Arc released the app, Dash criticized modern search engines and AI chatbots that sucked up the internets content and aimed to stop people from visiting websites, calling them deeply destructive. Its easy, Dash said, to blame the pop-ups, cookies and intrusive advertisements that power the economic engine of the modern web as the reason why browsing feels broken now. And there may be signs that users are warming to the concept of having their information presented to them summarized by large language models rather than manually clicking around multiple web pages. On Thursday, Miller tweeted that people chose Browse for Me over regular Google search in Arc Search on mobile for approximately 32 percent of all queries. The company is currently working on making that the default search experience and also bringing it to its desktop browser. Its not intellectually honest to say that this is better for users, said Dash. We only focus on short term user benefit and not the idea that users want to be fully informed about the impact theyre having on the entire digital ecosystem by doing this. Summarizing this double-edged sword succinctly a food blogger tweeted at Miller, "As a consumer, this is awesome. As a blogger, Im a lil afraid. Last week, Matt Karolian, the vice president of platforms, research and development at The Boston Globe typed top Boston news into Arc Search and hit Browse for Me. Within seconds, the app had scanned local Boston news sites and presented a list of headlines containing local developments and weather updates. News orgs are gonna lose their shit about Arc Search, Karolian posted on Threads. Itll read your journalism, summarize it for the userand then if the user does click a link, they block the ads. Local news publishers, Karolian told Engadget, almost entirely depend on selling ads and subscriptions to readers who visit their websites to survive. When tech platforms come along and disintermediate that experience without any regard for the impact it could have, it is deeply disappointing. Arc Search does include prominent links and citations to the websites it summarizes from. But Karolian said that this misses the point. It fails to ponder the consequences of what happens when you roll out products like this. Arc Search isnt the only service using AI to summarize information from web pages. Google, the worlds biggest search engine, now offers AI-generated summaries to users queries at the top of its search results, something that experts have previously called a bit like dropping a bomb right at the center of the information nexus. Arc Search, however, goes a step beyond and eliminates search results altogether. Meanwhile, Miller has continued to tweet throughout the controversy, posting vague musings about websites in an AI-first internet while simultaneously releasing products based on concepts he has admittedly still not sorted out. On a recent episode of The Vergecast that Miller appeared on, he compared what Arc Search might do to the economics of the web to what Craigslist did to business models of print newspapers. I think its absolutely true that Arc Search and the fact that we remove the clutter and the BS and make you faster and get you what you need in a lot less time is objectively good for the vast majority of people, and it is also true that it breaks something, he says. It breaks a bit of the value exchange. We are grappling with a revolution with how software works and how computers work and thats going to mess up some things. Karolian from The Globe said that the behavior of tech companies applying AI to content on the web reminded him of a monologue delivered by Ian Malcolm, one of the protagonists in Jurassic Park to park creator John Hammond about applying the power of technology without considering its impact: Your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could they didnt stop to think if they should. Telecel Group, an Africa-focused provider of digital and communications services, has announced a major investment in its wholly owned subsidiary Telecel Global Services (TGS), a leading telecommunication service provider for operators and enterprise clients globally with a particular focus on Africa. Telecel Group and Africa Credit Opportunities Fund (ACOF), a sector-agnostic debt fund that invests in a range of credit opportunities in sub-Saharan Africa, have entered into a strategic partnership to invest US$20 million debt in TGS, to improve connectivity, digitalisation and e-commerce in West Africa and across the continent. TGS provides a number of services, including cloud, firewall solutions, cybersecurity and data centres, to more than 350 telecom operators through its hubs in New York, London and South Africa. Details of how the partership will effect its aims have yet to be shared but it is no secret that Telecel Group has ambitions to expand in Africa, to develop digital and mobile offerings, or to buy all or part of operators on the continent, via its subsidiaries TGS, Telecel Mobile and Telecel Play. The company made headlines last year in Ghana, where it obtained the green light in January 2023 to acquire 70% of Vodafone Ghana. The Telecel Group is now gearing up to fully rebrand Vodafone Ghana to Telecel by the end of February 2024. The rebranding will cover Vodafone Ghana and its three subsidiaries, Vodafone Wholesale, Vodafone Cash and Vodafone Ghana Foundation. Actress Gina Carano is suing Lucasfilms and Disney after being dropped from the 'The Mandalorian' TV series in 2021, citing discrimination and unlawful termination. Her complaint was filed Tuesday in California federal court, alleging she was booted off the show for vocalizing right-wing beliefs on social media. The 41-year-old alleges she was targeted unfairly while her male co-stars were permitted to speak freely about similar topics without harassment. Carano's post read: "Most people today don't realize that to get to the point where Naxi soldiers could easily round up thousands of Jews, the government first made their own neighbors hate them simply for being Jews. How is that any different from hating someone for their political views?" She announced the lawsuit publicly on Sunday in an open letter on Twitter, now known as X, reciting a statement from Lucasfilms regarding her termination. "Gina Carano is not currently employed by Lucasfilm & there are no plans for her to be in the future," the post read, in part. "Nevertheless, her social media posts denigrating people based on their cultural & religious identities are abhorrent & unacceptable." Today is an important day for me--I am filing a lawsuit against @lucasfilm & @Disney After my 20 years of building a career from scratch, and during the regime of former Disney CEO Bob Chapek, Lucasfilm made this statement on Twitter, terminating me from The Mandalorian: Gina Gina Carano (@ginacarano) February 6, 2024 RELATED: Gina Carano Strips For 'GQ' Magazine Photo Shoot The actress defended herself, saying she was hunted down because her views were "not in line with the acceptable narrative of the time," and that her words were twisted to demonize and dehumanize her. "It was a bullying smear campaign aimed at silencing, destroying & making an example out of me," the star claimed. She continued: "The thing is I never even used aggressive language. I shared thought provoking quotes, pictures, memes & occasionally I used my own words, not with aggression but with respect & the occasional comedy to keep the mood light in dark times." Last year, billionaire Elon Musk, 52, who acquired Twitter for $44 billion, announced major policy changes to the service, including promising to fund the legal bill of X users who have been discriminated against due to activity on his platform. RELATED: The Real Reason Why Mandalorian's Baby Yoda Is Trending on Twitter "We're proud to provide financial support for Gina Carano's lawsuit, empowering her to seek vindication of her free speech rights on X," head of business operations Joe Benarroch told The Hollywood Reporter. If you were unfairly treated by your employer due to posting or liking something on this platform, we will fund your legal bill. No limit. Please let us know. Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 6, 2023 According to CNBC, the former 'Star Wars' actress is seeking reinstatement in 'The Mandalorian' series and monetary damages for the loss of her pay and her future employment as a result of her termination. "Thank you to all the people who have supported me & made your voices heard," Carano said via X. "I pray God blesses each & every one of you." Podcaster Bobbi Althoff announced the end of her marriage to husband Cory Althoff. In a social media statement, she confirmed their journey towards divorce after three years of marriage. Despite the separation, Althoff, 26, emphasized the gratitude for Cory's role as a father, expressing that their daughters are fortunate to have him in their lives. The news comes seven months after Bobbi dismissed rumors of a romance with rapper Drake following his viral appearance on her show, 'The Really Good Podcast.' RELATED: Zoe Kravitz Breaks Silence On Her Mother Lisa Bonet's Divorce From Jason Mamoa She shared a monochrome photo of herself and her now-estranged husband embracing by the waterfront. "As most of you may know, Cory and I have filed for divorce," she wrote. "Despite my current sadness, I am grateful for the time I spent as his wife. Our girls are fortunate to have him as a father, and I feel privileged to co-parent with such an extraordinary father and person." She concluded: "Although our relationship didn't work out in marriage, we will always be friends, and my love for him will endure." Even though comments were disabled, the Instagram post has garned over 314,000 Likes as of Thursday evening. On TikTok, the response was notably vocal as Bobbi incorporated the viral heartbreak song, "Real Love to Roommates," as the backdrop to the picture of herself and Cory. "Saw this coming a million miles away once she blew up with Drake," one commenter wrote, while another was sympathic to the separation, writing, "I'm so sorry. I was crushed to hear this." Two women have come forward with new abuse allegations against Jonathan Majors, accusing him of both physical and emotional abuse, as reported by 'The New York Times' on Thursday. Per the outlet, Majors, 34, has a reported "history of volatility" according to interviews with 20 individuals. The claims include alleged confrontations with female co-workers on the set of 'Lovecraft Country' and complaints to the network. RELATED: Jonathan Majors Guilty Verdict Could Lead To Cancellation Of Marvel's 'Avengers: Kang Dynasty' Emma Duncan and Maura Hooper, who claim to have dated Majors between 2013 and 2019, provided detailed accounts of claims of abuse, according to the 'NYT' report. Duncan alleges both physical and emotional abuse, while Hooper speaks of emotional abuse during her relationships with the actor. According to the report, Duncan and Hooper described Majors as a "controlling, threatening figure" who, in their accounts, isolated them from friends and hindered their career pursuits. Priya Chaudhry, Majors' lawyer, responded to allegations by acknowledging that the relationships with Duncan and Hooper were "toxic." Chaudhry admitted that Majors "did say hurtful things," but denied most allegations of physical abuse. Furthermore, she stated that Majors was unaware of the HBO complaint. In her response, obtained by The Hollywood Reporter, Chaudhry emphasized that, despite emotional volatility, there was no physical abuse in their relationship. The recent disclosures emerge just two months after the 'Creed III' actor was convicted of reckless assault in the third degree and harassment in the second degree. The charges stem from a March 2023 incident involving the actor and his ex-partner Grace Jabbari. RELATED: WATCH: Jonathan Majors Video Shows Street Scuffle With Girlfriend, Foot Chase Across NYC Jabbari testified that during a car ride, she discovered a text on Majors' phone suggesting infidelity, leading to a confrontation where Majors allegedly injured her. This included prying her finger from the phone, striking her head while attempting to retrieve it, and later throwing her back into the car. The charges could result in a maximum sentence of up to one year in prison. His sentencing has been postponed and the new date is set for April 8. A volcano in southwestern Iceland erupted for the third time since December, pumping lava up to 260 feet into the air and threatening to disrupt life in Reykjanes peninsula. Polish farmers block roads nationwide and border crossings with Ukraine, initiating a month-long general strike to protest against EU policies and what they say is a lack of government action to protect their livelihoods. HELENA, Mont. The Montana VA Health Care System will recognize and honor hospitalized Veterans from Feb. 11-17 during National Salute to Veteran Patients by facilitating visits to hospitalized Veterans, promoting volunteer opportunities, and accepting Valentines Day cards to be given to all Veterans. More than 9 million Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces are cared for each day in VA medical facilities, outpatient clinics, domiciliary sites, and community living centers. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) National Salute to Veteran Patients is observed annually during the week of Valentine's Day, a day of caring and sharing, which underscores the Salutes expression of honor and appreciation to hospitalized and outpatient Veterans. The annual VA National Salute to Veteran Patients program began in 1978 when VA took over sponsorship of a program started in 1974 by the humanitarian organization, No Greater Love, Inc. National Salute to Veteran Patients provides every American the chance to thank Veterans for their freedom by sending Valentines to VA medical facilities. We are honored to host Veteran Service Organizations, community partners and the general public to give thanks to our Veterans during National Salute to Patient Week, said Montana VA Interim Director, Duane Gill. We encourage you to mail Valentines Day cards to our medical center to show your gratitude for their service. To send Valentines Day cards to Veterans mail to: Montana VA Health Care System ATTN: CDCE PO Box 167 Fort Harrison, MT 59636 Learn more about volunteer opportunities by visiting www.volunteer.va.gov or calling Montana VA Center for Development and Civic Engagement at 406-447-7407. Montana VA serves over 47,000 enrolled Veterans across Montanaan area roughly 147,000 square miles in size. Veterans are cared for by a staff of 1,400 at 18 sites of care across the state. One third of Montana VA employees are Veterans. Pakistan reportedly suspended mobile internet services across the country on Thursday just before voting got underway in the countrys contentious general election, ostensibly for security reasons. According to media reports, internet and mobile phone services were shut off just before the polls opened Thursday morning. The internet outage was subsequently confirmed by internet monitoring company Netblocks. The Internet Societys Pulse website, which tracks internet shutdowns globally, said that Internet traffic for mobile operators Mobilink (Jazz), Telenor Pakistan, and CMPak (Zong) dropped significantly between 1:45 and 2:30 UTC and began returning around 15:00 UTC, according to data from Cloudflare Radar. Nikkei Asia reports that while fixed broadband service was still available in Islamabad, most people in Pakistan use mobiles for internet services. The internet shutdown came despite assurances from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) on Wednesday that internet services would continue to function normally on election day, and that the government has not issued any directives to shut services down. However, the Interior Ministry said on Thursday it restricted mobile access due to the deteriorating security situation in the country. On Wednesday, at least 28 people were killed in twin bomb blasts outside candidates offices in Balochistan province. The Interior Ministry has a history of shutting off internet services in response to terrorism threats and social unrest. It also recently shut down services to prevent online rallies held by the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party led by jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The PTI, as well as the Pakistan People's Party (PPP), have accused authorities of blocking internet access as a tactic to rig the election outcome in favor of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) led by former PM Nawaz Sharif. A history of shutdowns Critics say that internet access is crucial to free and fair elections, as voters use it to find polling stations, book transportation to get to them, report irregularities to the Election Commission of Pakistan and share information with other voters. The PTI also relies heavily on social media to communicate with supporters. Unwarranted restrictions on dissemination of information, despite reassurances to the contrary from the Pakistan Telecommunications Authority and Election Commission of Pakistan, are in breach of peoples human rights at this critical time in Pakistan said Livia Saccardi, Interim Deputy Director for South Asia at Amnesty International in a statement. Blanket shutdowns impacts peoples mobility, livelihood and ability to navigate through a difficult time further undermining their trust in authorities. Intentional internet shutdowns by government authorities on a local, regional or national basis have become more common in recent years, typically in the name of controlling civil unrest, fighting misinformation or protecting national security. Pulse says it recorded 124 incidents across 18 countries in 2023 in which governments and other actors intentionally disrupted Internet connectivity or blocked access to specific Internet services for their citizens. The disruptions can last from a couple of hours to a week. The practice is controversial not only because of issues of freedom of information, but also because of the impact on peoples livelihoods, particularly at a time when many countries are striving to establish digital economies. Internet shutdowns also have an impact on economic productivity. Pulse reports that in Pakistan alone, a four-day internet shutdown in May 2023 following the arrest of Imran Khan cost the country nearly US$17 million in GDP revenue. U.S. Rep. Matt Rosendale, R-Montana, said Friday he is running for the U.S. Senate. Im running to be the next United States Senator from Montana, Rosendale said in an announcement Friday. Our republic is tattered and torn, but it is not defeated. We need to send a shock to the system to restore it. So today, I am asking for your support to run for the U.S. Senate so together we can rebuild this great nation, he said. Rosendale has served in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2020. He lost to U.S. Sen. Jon Tester, D-Montana, in 2018 by a 50.3% to 46.8% margin (17,915 votes). In his campaign launch announcement, Rosendale promised to be an alternative to the Republican establishment. Mitch McConnell and the Uniparty have controlled the Senate for far too long and are the architects of a $34 trillion debt. Its time they understand that Montanans dont take orders from Washington, we send orders to Washington, said Rosendale, who back former president Donald Trump and was one of the GOP votes to oust former U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy last year. That sets up a Republican primary with Tim Sheehy, founder and CEO of Belgrade-based Bridger Aerospace. Sheehy, who touts his military experience as a U.S. Navy Seal, has been backed the National Republican Senatorial Committee. That group is headed by U.S. Sen. Steve Daines, R-Montana, who voiced support for Sheehy Friday. Its unfortunate that rather than building seniority for our great state in the House, Matt is choosing to abandon his seat and create a divisive primary. Tim Sheehy has my full support because he is the best candidate to take on Jon Tester. Whichever party wins the Montana Senate seat will control the United States Senate in 2024, and Republicans cannot risk nominating a candidate who gave Jon Tester the biggest victory of his career., said Daines, who lives in Belgrade. Sheehy and Daines also back Trump. We must stand with President Donald J. Trump to save America. The Radical Lefts witch against President Trump is an affront to American democracy. The Left wants to silence all the great patriots of the America First movement who love our country by kicking Donald Trump off the ballot because they know they cant beat him in a fair fight We the people stand with President Trump and will lead him to victory in 2024. #MAGA, Sheehy said in a social media post regarding the U.S. Supreme Court hearing on Colorado banning Trump from the 2024 ballot over the Capitol riot of via the 14th Amendments insurrection clause. The court appears poised to side with Trump in that court and ballot batlle. Tester has raised close to $25.2 million for his reelection bid the fifth most of any U.S. Senate candidate, according to the Federal Election Commission. Tester has $11.2 million on hand, according to FEC data. According to the Center for Responsive Politics, Testers top campaign donors include the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), Microsoft, Amazon.com, Visa Inc., Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Apollo Global Management and Capital Group.) The Montana Democrat was first elected to the Senate in 2006. He is seeking a fourth 6-year term in state Trump carried in both 2016 and 2020. The race could be key to which party has the majority in the Senate. Sheehy has raised $5.3 million for the race, including $950,000 of his own money. The Belgrade businessman has just under $1.3 million on hand, according to FEC figures. Rosendale has a $1.6 million cash on hand for his congressional campaign committee having raced $1 million this cycle, according campaign finance figures. Scotlands First Minister Humza Yousaf has pledged at least 70 percent of future funding to be delivered in Tiers 1 and 2 of new Scottish agricultural policy. The funding commitment to future farming policy was made at NFU Scotland's annual conference in Glasgow today (9 February). In his address, Mr Yousaf reiterated Scottish governments commitment that there would be no cliff edges in support as Scotland transitions between existing schemes and the introduction of the new four tier framework. He informed delegates that funding for Tiers 1 and 2 will constitute at least 70% of the overall funding envelope to support farming, crofting and land management from 2027. These are the tiers that will reflect most closely the current direct payment regime that delivers schemes such as Basic Payment Scheme and Greening. The First Minister also announced that, in addition, funding for the replacement for the Less Favoured Areas Support Scheme, currently worth 65m, will be made available through Tier 2 once the replacement scheme has been decided. NFU Scotland President Martin Kennedy said farmers across the country would welcome the clarity on future levels of support. He said: Equally important was the First Ministers recognition of the economic importance of our sector and his stated ambition that he wants to see our production of high-quality food and drink grow. "That needs farming and crofting to be at the heart of the new agricultural policy and this Tier 1 and Tier 2 funding announcement is a lobbying success for NFU Scotland. For our highly productive, unsupported sectors such as pigs, poultry, horticulture and potatoes, funding in Tiers 3 and 4 will be vital in providing support for business development, investment and growth." However, Mr Kennedy said there was still 'a huge unknown' surrounding agricultural funding made available to Scotland by Westminster . "We are in an election year, and we have made our case clear that we need at least another 1b to be added to the UK budget for agriculture," he said. Under the current financial arrangement, that would see at least another 170m to go into the Scottish agricultural budget." Thousands of farmers across Wales have raised 'concern and worry' at the Welsh government's Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) proposals. The Labour-led government has been urged to commit to 'a major overhaul' of the post-Brexit support system following a series of roadshow events. They were undertaken across the country as part of a comprehensive farmer engagement programme spearheaded by NFU Cymru. More than 2,000 farmers attended the nine events, where NFU Cymru said 'concern and worry' were raised at SFS proposals, which will roll out next year and replace direct farm payments. The union's president, Aled Jones said: Almost all of the comments fed back to us during these events gave a truly worrying picture of what farmers see the future of their farms looking like. The proposals as they stand will have far reaching impacts on Welsh farming, rural businesses and communities and it is vital that Welsh government listen to these concerns. "Whilst the title of the consultation suggests Welsh government want to keep farmers farming this will not happen if we are not profitable." NFU Cymru and other industry groups are calling for a long-term stability payment to be included as an integral element of the SFS. The universal payment would provide a fair reward and a meaningful income stream for farmers undertaking environmental work. A set of universal actions that work for all farm sectors, types and regions of Wales, is also needed, NFU Cymru said. "The scheme must deliver the same level of stability to farming businesses, the supply chain and our rural communities," added Mr Jones. "We need an SFS that has policies to underpin the continued supply of high quality and affordable food to feed the nation. "It is clear to us and all who attended the roadshows that the current proposals for the universal tier and scheme requirements need a major overhaul." Farmers are being encouraged to respond to the Welsh government's consultation on the SFS, with NFU Cymru saying there "has never been a more important time to have your say". It comes after thousands of farmers met at Carmarthen market on Thursday night (8 February) to protest against the direction of travel the industry is going in. Organisers said more than 3,000 people attended the mart to discuss proposed funding changes they believe will hit agriculture hard. International referee Nigel Owens, who is president of the National Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs (NFYFC), told the audience that farmers "must stand strong and together." He said on X, formerly Twitter: "I was truly honoured to address the thousands of farmers that turned out in a truly justified protest. I was truly honoured to address the thousands of farmers that turned out in a truly justified protest at the current welsh government policies that are not fair nor workable along with their policy on TB eradication which really is not working. We must stand strong and together. pic.twitter.com/ETz8UDNtlL Nigel Owens MBE (@Nigelrefowens) February 8, 2024 "The current Welsh government policies are not fair nor workable, along with their policy on TB eradication which really is not working." The issue has led the Countryside Alliance to warn the two candidates standing for the leadership of Welsh Labour that there is a 'growing disconnect' between the government and rural areas. Jeremy Miles and Vaughan Gething are the only candidates fighting for the role of First Minister of Wales following the resignation of Mark Drakeford as leader of Welsh Labour. His replacement - likely to be named First Minister after a Senedd vote - will take up the role in March following a ballot of party members. Beef and sheep farmers in Wales have been invited to join an innovative grass production project before the upcoming deadline in one week's time. Hybu Cig Cymru Meat Promotion Wales (HCC) is a collaborative funder of GrasscheckGB and is seeking two more beef and sheep farms to join the project. The project aims to give farmers the skills and equipment needed to monitor weather and measure their grass yield and quality. It works with nine beef and sheep farmers across Wales who measure grass weekly, and submit grass samples for analysis every fortnight during the growing season. This is in order to better manage grazed grassland and improve grass utilisation, farm profitability and sustainability. HCCs research executive, Dr Heather McCalman, explained more: We know that Wales is one of the best places to grow grass in the world. "This means we can rear high quality livestock mainly using grazed pasture, the sun and rainwater, rather than buying in costly imported feed. "We are currently looking to offer two Welsh farm businesses the exciting opportunity to participate in the GrasscheckGB project and there is still time to apply before the application window closes on 19 February. The project, a collaborative venture across the red meat and dairy sectors in Wales, England and Scotland, offers farmers involved the skills and equipment needed to monitor weather and measure their grass yield and quality. Soil moisture, temperature and weather readings are also collated, giving a picture of all elements needed to grow grass efficiently. Results are then shared across the industry for sector-wide benefit and understanding. Rachael Madeley-Davies, HCCs head of sustainability, encouraged Welsh farmers to apply for this 'excellent opportunity'. She said: "Our vision for the future of the red meat industry and our farmers here in Wales is one of profitability, efficiency and sustainability. "Projects like GrasscheckGB will give the industry the tools needed to make informed decisions for their farming business and lead the way in producing excellent grass." Applications should be made by the end of day on 19 February. Killer Mike spent his time in police custody meditating and giving thanks to God after being arrested at the Grammy Awards. Killer Mike won three awards at the Grammys but ended the night in police custody The 48-year-old rap star was led away in handcuffs after winning three gongs at the glitzy prizegiving in Los Angeles on Sunday (04.02.24) and was booked on a misdemeanour charge in relation to an altercation inside the Crypto.com Arena venue - and he's now revealed he wasn't angry about the position he found himself in on music's biggest night. Mike told GQ magazine: "I could have succumbed to anger or evil and talked [badly]. But Im just grateful. I talked about this album being a return to the religious and moral principles I was raised with. "And I just got to say, man, you'll find yourself in a position where it's just you and God. And I took a couple hours, man. I was just by myself, and I was just thankful I took time to thank God and to say, I appreciate the blessings you've given me. "I spent time talking. I'm invoking the spirit of my grandmother and my mother and just saying, Look, I've done it. And after a few hours, man, I got out and I went partied and had fun." He went on to insist he's glad to have spent three hours in quiet contemplation because the next morning he was given the good news that his child had been approved for a kidney donation. Mike added: "I was glad that I had used those three hours to be thankful to God and to be calm and to meditate. Because the very next morning, I got a call that my child, after being on the list for three years, finally got his kidney. "And I can just truly tell you that God is real ... I'm grateful. Not only that I won, but I'm grateful that God showed me within 24 hours that there's something more important than even the accolades you've worked for. And that's my family and my child and I'm just thankful. I thank Him." Read the full feature 'Killer Mike Talks About His Big Grammy Night: Three Wins, One Arrest, and a Long Talk With God' by Frazier Tharpe on GQ.com. Images courtesy Manam Chocolates (pic: Daniel DSouza) + An Ode To Gaia These food gifts and food-related gifts will help you celebrate your bonds of love with near and dear ones Image: Daniel DSouza Limited-Edition Valentine Collection 2024 From Manam Chocolates If youre in Hyderabad, grab the chance to gift premium craft chocolate Manam Chocolate to celebrate love. You can pick from a variety of specially-curated Valentine Gift Boxes from the award-winning brand for your near and dear ones, or curate your own customised gift box from the 300+ chocolate offerings. Choose from fine-chocolate tablets (bars) in 43 options and bonbons, truffles, barks, palettes, fudge, thins, clusters, chocolate spreads, snacking nibs, hot chocolate mix, and more. You can also step into the shoes of one of Manams chocolatiers, and craft a one-of-a-kind personalised chocolate tablet. PS: Manam Chocolate will be available March 2024 onwards from the Manam Chocolate website for delivery in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Chennai, Ahmedabad, and Pune. Location: Manam Chocolate Karkhana, No 8/2/684/3/40, Road No 12, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad Price: Rs 500 to Rs 2,400 The telecoms sector has an indisputable impact on the environment. Operating a reliable network requires vast amounts of power, the manufacture of network equipment and personal devices produces significant carbon emissions, and the swift obsolescence of these devices generates a constant stream of e-waste. With access to telecommunications increasingly viewed as a human right, the expansion of networks and proliferation of devices has raised awareness of the sectors environmental impact, placing companies under increasing pressure to show leadership in achieving sustainability goals and adopting greener solutions. While this trend has been gaining traction for years, there has been a pronounced shift towards sustainable solutions in recent years and the main driving factor has not been social pressure, but cost savings. Companies are increasingly finding that it is not merely financially viable to adopt greener solutions, but attractively cheaper. This is particularly the case with regards to energy. Enrique Dans, a Senior Fellow at the Centre for European Policy Analysis (CEPA), told us: From my perspective, the most important factor here is cost. We are witnessing a huge decrease in the cost of renewable energy. Dans highlights that the key technologies for solar energy panels and batteries have both plummeted in terms of overall cost, with solar panels now 99% cheaper than 40 years ago, and batteries 97% cheaper. The efficiency of both technologies has also increased substantially, meaning that its now feasible for an operator to power several antennas at an isolated location with just a few solar panels and a battery. He adds that this is a particularly attractive option in emerging markets as it facilitates the construction of self-sufficient, off-grid sites to enable reliable rural connectivity, and notes that operators in these regions are often able to obtain public funds or even grants from international agencies for deploying sustainable infrastructure projects. Installation is now the most expensive element of a deployment formerly, it was materials such as solar panels. This means solar energy is now viable on a widespread industrial scale, which in turn makes it feasible to extend technologies that typically require more reliable energy supplies to areas without grid power. Dans notes that 5G consumes a lot of energy in areas where there is a constant stream of connections, but in an isolated area the base station can remain idle a lot of the time, meaning that it consumes less energy. Simay Akar, IEEE senior member and the CEO & Founder at AK Energy Consulting, notes that there are still significant challenges in the way of achieving sustainability goals, particularly in emerging markets. She highlights companies needing to integrate renewable energy systems into their infrastructure, noting that investment in these systems will facilitate on-site power generation, reducing dependence on grid power. The benefits that this can be deliver will be amplified by coordinated collaboration: It is not an individual effort - they need to follow the policies to collaborate for Power Purchase Agreementslong-term to have more efficient, stable and cost-efficient electricity for their supply and needs. It's also integrated to their grid - not every company has distributed systems, they're mostly connected to grids. If they have a distributed generation, they need to make sure they are focusing on their green grid infrastructure. That requires a lot of investment in the green modernization, and they need to focus on smart grid integration in their systems. Akar states that its not enough for operators to merely invest in renewable energy resources they must also optimise their network efficiency by upgrading their infrastructure with digital tools including artificial intelligence management systems, cloud technologies, and software defined networks. She notes that by combining these technologies with cooling systems, the physical hardwares power consumption can be dramatically reduced, but adds that intelligent use of energy storage systems is also essential. Its important to integrate energy storage solutions if using renewable energy resources, because it's not [just] about the sustainable power we generate - this is also the business, they cannot have power outages. Outages are not merely a matter of network availability they are also a threat to data security, so its crucial for operators to understand the importance of energy stability and integrate these systems into their turnkey solutions although Akar underlines the importance of selecting solutions that are suitable for both requirements and location. It's harder and more challenging in emerging markets than developed markets, because you need to know your investment in this area for sustainability will be profitable, says Akar. When you have government support incentives, this clean energy transition is always more straightforward, but for emerging markets there are also considerations of what we could do, and what are the opportunities. Akar observes that green financing is a promising area, noting that there is sustainable funding available in the form of green bonds, public private partnerships, and private equity. While there are few incentives around this, so it cannot make up for support for a green transition from the sector, she says that these resources are made possible via international collaboration and are typically targeted at emerging markets, so could be instrumental in enabling a transition to cleaner energy in the sector. As more companies become able to generate power via mini-grids and off-grid solutions, they frequently have surplus to their requirements. With intelligent use of storage systems, Akar explains that they can sell this back to the grid, or alternatively simply store the energy and use it as required to address infrastructure gaps. Even if there are no supportive mechanisms in their local area, through this kind of collaboration it becomes possible for companies to have access to cost efficient energy resources. Even if it looks more challenging for emerging markets, there are more opportunities for the future because implementing these steps can [help] reach sustainability goals and energy sustainability while reducing their operational costs, explains Akar. When we talk about all these initiatives, it sounds like we're investing a lot, but [whether] long term or short term, it's not really. And overall, by reaching these sustainability goals, they're also reducing their operational costs - this is important to see the opportunities, improve their energy supply, and make it more stable for their main business. The pressure is on but the opportunities for real change are now viable. Dans observes that initial efforts around sustainability in telecoms amounted to little more than greenwashing, but underlines that the COP28 UN Climate Change Conference in Dubai, UAE delivered commitments that businesses are no longer able to skirt around. Everyone was expecting a very low-profile conference, but in the end, the final documents are pretty stringent. They don't say stop fossil fuels - of course, that was predictable. But the commitments for increasing renewable energy are huge, theyre really important. And they demand a lot of investment. The index for Australias industrial sector experienced a significant downturn in December2023/January 2024, dropping 4.9 points to a seasonally adjusted minus 27.3 points, according to the latest report by the Ai Group. This decline marks a continued trend of contraction, which has now persisted for twenty-one months. The Australian purchasing managers index (PMI) (all manufacturing) also showed signs of struggle, albeit with a slight improvement of 1.5 points, yet still remaining in contraction at minus 23.8. This downturn has been consistent since September 2022, attributed to lower productivity due to holiday shutdowns, increasing input costs, supply delays, and ongoing recruitment difficulties. Industry activity saw a further decline, with the activity indicator dropping 7.5 points to minus 37.2, the lowest since the pandemic lockdowns of 2020. This negative trend has spanned over twenty-one months, reflecting a broader industry downturn. Employment in the sector also contracted further, with the indicator falling 1.5 points to minus 5.2 in December/January. However, employment levels have seen some stabilization around minus 4.5 over the last four months, despite challenges in hiring qualified staff and weaker customer demand, as per the Ai Group. Australia's industrial sector's index decreased to minus 27.3 in December 2023/January 2024, marking 21 months of contraction. The PMI remains in contraction at minus 23.8. The country's activity, employment, and new orders indicators declined, while pricing pressures and wage growth persisted. Capacity utilisation dipped to 79.2 per cent. New orders plummeted by 15.3 points to minus 45.3, marking the lowest reading since the inception of the Ai Group's index in January 2020. This decline has been part of a negative trend since July 2022. Although there was a slight improvement in input volumes compared to November, the indicator remained in contraction at minus 4.8, a trend that has persisted for the past two years. In terms of pricing, all indicators saw increases in December/January, continuing the trend of elevated price levels. The gap between input and sales prices widened to 34.2 points, indicating ongoing margin pressures. The average wages indicator rose by 7.4 points to 37.9, still reflecting strong market pressures for wage growth despite being below the peak levels of July 2023. Capacity utilisation in the Australian industry slightly decreased to 79.2 per cent in December/January. Although utilisation rates have been trending down over the past year, they remain historically high, indicating supply-side constraints, especially in labour supply. Some respondents noted that while older orders are still utilising capacity, new orders have seen a decline in recent months. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DP) Bangladesh should raise the tax to gross domestic product (GDP) ratio from 8.74 per cent now to 22 per cent to achieve Vision 2041 targets, the Foreign Investors' Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) suggested recently. To achieve this target, the private sector's cooperation will be indispensable, FICCI president Zaved Akhtar said while presenting the chambers suggestions at a pre-budget meeting organised by the National Board of Revenue (NBR). Bangladesh should raise the tax to GDP ratio from 8.74 per cent now to 22 per cent to achieve Vision 2041 targets, the Foreign Investors' Chamber of Commerce and Industry suggested recently. There is also a need for a comprehensive and integrated digital architecture for the country to track economic transactions and attract dues from taxpayers, it noted. FICCI, representing around 210 foreign companies operating in Bangladesh, has been contributing more than 30 per cent of the total government revenue, Akhtar, who led the delegation at the meeting, noted. There is also a need for a comprehensive and integrated digital architecture for the country to track economic transactions and attract dues from taxpayers, along with simplification of the taxation system and elimination of manual processes for ease of compliance and reporting, a domestic news agency cited FICCI as recommending. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS) critic's rating: 3.5/5 Bhakshak is based on the infamous incident that took place in a shelter home in Muzaffarpur, Bihar where several young girls, aged between 7-17, were sexually abused. The case came to light in 2018 when a report was submitted by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) to the Bihar Social Welfare Department. The report mentioned details of allegations of sexual abuse of minor girls at the shelter home which was run by a non-governmental organisation (NGO) called Seva Sankalp Evam Vikas Samiti. When the police acted on the report, it was found that everyone, from the caretaker of the said institute, to people from all walks of the government machinery were involved in the nefarious activities. The caretaker was found guilty by the courts and was sentenced to life imprisonment. The government later vowed to put up stricter norms for the welfare of young homeless children. Vaishali Singh (Bhumi), is a journalist running a small-time independent news channel called Koshish News in Patna, along with her cameraman Bhaskar Sinha (Sanjay Mishra). An informant (Durgesh Kumar), informs them about a report submitted to the Ministry of Welfare which hasn't been acted upon. When they investigate, they find out that the man running the institute, Bansi Sahu (Aditya Srivastava), has been directly responsible for the heinous activities. He seems to be politically well connected and hence no action has been taken against him. Vaishali and Bhaskar organise a relentless media campaign against the wrongdoers, posting facts as and when they get them. Their big break comes when a girl, who was previously working as a cook at the institute, gives them the insider details and later even agrees to turn witness. This prompts the judiciary to finally take action against the perpetrators. The film is not for the fainthearted. Some scenes are decidedly visceral and aren't easy to watch. That said, it boggles the mind that Vaishali is the only reporter chasing the story, and that senior police officer Gurmeet (Sai Tamhankar) dumps the onus of investigation on Vaishali, rather than doing it herself. Strange indeed. The film seemed to be shot on location and the claustrophobic bylanes of a small-town, as well as the jail-like conditions of the institute, highlights the horror of it all more profoundly. Aditya Srivastava, who is always seen in a positive light in films and TV makes for a terrific villain. The scene where he intimidates Vaishali and Bhaskar with a smile on his face is worth watching twice. He holds court with his coterie, and casually discusses rape and torture like hes discussing the weather. The crimes mean nothing to him because he doesnt consider the victims to be human. Sai Tamhankar makes her presence felt in her brief role. Sanjay Mishra, who looks the very image of a small-town journalist who knows everything there is to know, reiterates the fact yet again as to why hes considered one of the best actors in India. Bhumi Pednekar is back to doing what she knows best. Shes the conscious keeper of the film and makes you realise that if we really want a change, then we shouldnt turn a blind eye to the things which are happening around her. She makes you believe shes a bloodhound out on a hunt, sniffing the trail of the crime with much gusto and doing her best to capture the criminals. Her honest portrayal keeps you hooked to the film. Watch the hard-hitting film for its message and for the display of superior acting by the entire ensemble cast. Trailer : Bhakshak Home Top Listing Top Listing Enjoyed 'Anweshippin Kandethum'? Watch These 5 Malayalam Cop Thrillers Streaming Now On OTT If you found Tovino Thomas' latest theatrical release, 'Anweshippin Kandethum,' enjoyable, then these five captivating Malayalam cop thrillers should definitely be on your watch list. It is now available for streaming on OTT platforms. It will promise to deliver riveting narratives and intense performances that will keep you hooked from start to finish. Check the complete list of Malayalam Cop Thrillers given below to watch on ott platforms. Kannur Squad-Disney+Hotstar 'Kannur Squad' directed by Roby Varghese Raj and starring Megastar Mammootty, emerged as one of the top-grossing films of 2023. The movie revolves around a police officer and his team as they embark on a challenging mission to apprehend a criminal gang. Despite its predictable storyline due to the high-profile case, the film offers a compelling portrayal of crime investigation, shedding light on the challenges faced by police officers. Written by Shafi and Rony David, it provides a realistic insight into the complexities of law enforcement. Christopher-Amazon Prime Video B. Unnikrishnan's 'Christopher' is a gripping police drama that hit theaters in 2023, starring Mammootty in the lead role. The film follows the journey of a vigilante cop who takes a stand against crimes targeting women, showcasing his relentless pursuit of justice in a society plagued by gender-based violence. Through powerful storytelling and intense action sequences, 'Christopher' offers a thought-provoking exploration of law enforcement and social issues. Action Hero Biju- Disney+Hotstar Directed by Abrid Shine, 'Action Hero Biju' stars Nivin Pauly as Sub Inspector Biju Paulose, depicting his journey through the complexities of professional and personal life as a police officer in Kerala. Renowned for its authentic portrayal of police operations, the film received acclaim for its compelling storyline and impressive performances. John Luther-Amazon Prime Video John Luther directed by Abhijit Joseph and starring Jayasurya, stands out as one of the finest psycho-thrillers in recent times. The film masterfully blends its story and screenplay, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats with suspenseful twists at every turn. With a perfect balance of intrigue and mystery, 'John Luther' delivers a captivating and immersive cinematic experience, making it a must-watch for thriller enthusiasts. Pappan-ZEE5 Suresh Gopi's 'Pappan' is a gripping investigation thriller that follows the story of a seasoned detective named Pappan, portrayed by Suresh Gopi. The film delves into Pappan's relentless pursuit of truth as he unravels a complex web of mysteries and deceit. Fueled by suspense and intrigue, 'Pappan' keeps audiences on the edge of their seats with its compelling narrative and dynamic performances. The film was directed by and produced jointly by Gokulam Gopalan, David Kachappilly and Raaffi Mathirra. RJ Shaan penned the script for the film. LOADING...... The Review Growth Index (RGI) by Doctor Marketing, MD releases the researched list of Top Rated Plastic Surgery Practices in Phoenix, Arizona after detailed analysis of over 7,300+ online patient Google Reviews given to 122 medical practices. PHOENIX, AZ / ACCESSWIRE / February 8, 2023 / Phoenix has some of the best plastic surgeons in the Southwest. The Review Growth Index (RGI) by Doctor Marketing, MD has identified which Phoenix cosmetic practices made the list for the first quarter(Q1) of 2024. After compiling and analyzing data from over 122 medical practices and 7,326 online Google Reviews, the top rated Plastic Surgery and Cosmetic Surgery Clinics in Phoenix stand out for their patient satisfaction rating and number of online reviews. The top ten surgical practices account for 3,689 Google Reviews and 50.35% percent of all plastic surgery reviews online for Phoenix plastic surgeons. With an average of over 368.9 patient reviews per practice, these surgeons display surgical excellence that sets them apart from the rest. Phoenix patients share their positive cosmetic experiences from the thousands of reviews. For those consumers who want top cosmetic enhancements in the Phoenix metropolitan area, these top practices represent the best of the best for Phoenix residents (Phoenicians) to choose from. Phoenix's Top Rated Plastic Surgeons , the best-rated in Phoenix, Arizona. There were fourteen plastic surgeons from the Top Rated Plastic Surgery Practices in Phoenix for Q1 of 2024. Data was compiled by the Review Growth Index (RGI) and is based on the number of Google Reviews received as of 11/30/23. Image Credit: Respective Phoenix Plastic Surgeons. Illustration by: Doctor Marketing, MD. "We've compiled extensive Google Review data from 122 plastic surgeons and cosmetic surgery practices in Phoenix, AZ. The Top Rated Best Plastic Surgery Clinics in Phoenix are made up of 14 of the best Phoenix plastic surgeons that received a combined 3,689 patient reviews. Doctor Marketing, MD gives recognition to those Phoenix area medical practices and doctors for their achievements in generating the highest number of patient reviews and ratings based on patient satisfaction and quality of care," said Marty Stewart, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of Doctor Marketing, MD, a leading digital agency that does content marketing for plastic surgeons , and the Review Growth Index (RGI). Top Ranked Plastic Surgeons and Cosmetic Practices in Phoenix, Arizona Here are the top ranked best plastic surgeons in Phoenix, AZ (based on number of patient Google Reviews): John J. Corey Aesthetic Plastic Surgery: 554 Reviews / 4.9 Rating - Dr. John Corey Dr. William M. Jacobsen Plastic Surgery: 478 Reviews / 4.8 Rating - Dr. William Jacobsen Arizona Ocular and Facial Plastic Surgery: 466 Reviews / 4.9 Rating - Dr. Dustin Heringer Arizona Facial Plastics: 424 Reviews / 4.7 Rating - Dr. Farhan Taghizadeh Elite Plastic Surgery: 415 Reviews / 4.7 Rating - Dr. Rozbeh Torabi - Dr. Radbeh Torabi Gawley Plastic Surgery: 311 Reviews / 4.9 Rating - Dr. Bryan Gawley - Dr. Jennifer Geoghegan Hobgood Facial Plastic Surgery: 284 Reviews / 4.9 Rating - Dr. Todd Hobgood Natural Results Plastic Surgery: 275 Reviews / 4.9 Rating - Dr. Carlos Mata - Dr. Martin Benjamin Guerra Plastic Surgery Center: 275 Reviews / 4.7 Rating - Dr. Aldo Guerra - Dr. Scott Ogley AdmireMD Plastic Surgery + Skin Clinic: 207 Reviews / 4.9 Rating - Dr. Anthony Admire Review Growth Index (RGI) List of Best Rated Plastic Surgeons in Phoenix, Arizona for Q1 of 2024 For the first quarter (Q1) of 2024, Google Review data was compiled through November 30th, 2023 to determine the top best rankings for Phoenix, Arizona (AZ). Here is the in-depth data snapshot of the Best Phoenix Plastic Surgeons compiled by the Doctor Marketing, MD Review Growth Index (RGI): 124 total plastic surgeons and cosmetic practices in Phoenix, Arizona were identified via Google My Business (GMB) profiles and Google Map listings for Phoenix. 122 plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery practices/clinics remained after removing duplicates. (Note: Some doctors have both a private practice under their own name, and are part of a larger medical group under a practice name, and were listed twice, thus removed) 7,326 total online Google Reviews for all Phoenix plastic surgeons as of 11/30/23. 84 practices (68.9%) had at least 1 online review. 38 practices (31.1%) had 0 online reviews. Average rating across all practices was 4.70 stars. 60 was the average number of reviews per practice. Statistics Exclusively for the Top Ten Phoenix Practices: 3,689 total reviews for the Top 10 combined. This was 50.35% of all reviews combined. 368.9 was the average # of Google Reviews per practice in the Top 10. Star Ratings ranged from 4.7 to 4.9 stars, with the average being 4.83 stars. About The Review Growth Index (RGI) The Review Growth Index ( RGI ) by Doctor Marketing, MD is an innovative metric designed specifically for the healthcare and medical industries, with current focus on the plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures sectors. It works by aggregating public data from major review platforms like Google Reviews to develop a comprehensive assessment of a doctor or surgeon's online reputation and performance. RGI analyzes the volume of patient reviews a surgeon receives, the star ratings given, and expressions of patient satisfaction. This provides prospective patients a reliable benchmark for choosing skilled, well-regarded doctors or surgeons with confidence. It also serves plastic surgeons by analyzing patient feedback patterns, enabling refinements to medical services and clinical approaches. Overall, RGI functions as an industry-specific gauge of excellence based on actual patient outcomes and experiences. Its insights help match discerning clients with surgeons delivering exceptional care and results. Prior curated lists of plastic surgeon reviews include the Top 10: Best Plastic Surgeons in Houston, TX , Best Plastic Surgeons in New York, NY , and the Best Plastic Surgeons in Chicago, IL . About Doctor Marketing, MD Doctor Marketing, MD is a top doctor search engine marketing agency, specializing in healthcare content creation, content distribution, and strategy. The firm works with Top Doctors and Physicians, Surgeons, Healthcare Companies, Medical Professionals, Private Practices, Medical Groups and Clinics, Hospitals, Executives, and Leaders in the Healthcare Industry and specialty Medical sectors. Doctor Marketing, MD has built a world-class content writing team of award-winning writers, SEOs, copywriters, wordsmiths, and ghostwriters. They've perfected a proprietary content assembly line process, and further specialize in large-scale content production through well-crafted blog posts, articles, and medical content pieces that attract new patients. Doctor Marketing, MD Helps Medical Professionals and Healthcare Providers Attract New Patients and Increase Patient Acquisition: Better, Faster and with Less Effort. Need Strategic Marketing Guidance For Your Doctor's Office, Healthcare, Medical, Clinic, Medspa, Plastic or Cosmetic Surgical Practice? CONTACT: Doctor Marketing, MD Anna Goldstein Director of Media Relations 877-463-9777 ext. 3 anna.goldstein@doctormarketingmd.com https://doctormarketingmd.com/ Connect with Doctor Marketing, MD on Social Media: LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and YouTube Schedule a Deep-Dive Marketing Analysis for Your Medical Practice, Visit: https://DoctorMarketingMD.com/contact/ SOURCE: Doctor Marketing, MD (DRMMD) View the original press release on accesswire.com CHICAGO, Feb. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The report "Fluorescent Pigment Market by Formulation (Organic, Inorganic), Characteristic Type, Type, Intensity (High Intensity, Medium Intensity, Low Intensity), Application (Paints & Coatings, Printing Inks), End-Use Industry, & Region - Global Forecast to 2028", size is projected to reach USD 498 million by 2028, at a CAGR of 5.7% from USD 377 million in 2023. The fluorescent pigment market is driven by several factors, including technological advancements, shifting consumer behaviors, favorable economic conditions, expanding applications in various industries, and growing demand. The increasing use of fluorescent pigments in various end-use industries, such as paints and coatings, printing inks, plastics, cosmetics, textiles, and electronics, is a significant driver for market growth. Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=239119498 Browse in-depth TOC on "Fluorescent Pigment Market" 289 - Tables 146 - Figures 310 - Pages "Organic fluorescent pigment is projected to be the largest formulation of fluorescent pigment, in terms of value, during the forecast period." Stringent regulations promoting the use of environmentally friendly pigments have fueled the growth of organic fluorescent pigments. Organic fluorescent pigments find extensive use in high-visibility products. They are useful in end-use industries such as paints and coatings, plastics, textiles, and printing inks. These factors, combined with the market's emphasis on safety applications and the overall growth of the high-visibility applications across various industries, have led to the growth of organic fluorescent pigment. Request Sample Pages: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=239119498 "Printing inks/Graphics arts is the fastest growing application of the fluorescent pigment, in terms of value." UV Fluorescent pigments are used in printing inks to create high-visibility products. These pigments are sensitive to light and some chemicals, and they fluoresce when exposed to UV radiation, resulting in bright, neon colors with high brilliance. In the graphic arts market, fluorescent pigments are employed to create eye-catching posters, signs, and displays. The vibrant and intense colors produced by fluorescent pigments under UV light can attract attention and are often used for promotional materials. "Asia Pacific captures the largest share in the fluorescent pigment market during the forecast period, in terms of value." Asia Pacific is the largest market for fluorescent pigment due to several factors. The region has the largest consumption of fluorescent pigment, with China, India, South Korea, and Japan being the major contributors. These countries have major industries such as textiles, printing, packaging, and electronics, which use fluorescent pigments in various applications such as inks, coatings, and plastics. The packaging industry in the region is substantial due to the large population and increasing consumer demand. Fluorescent pigments are often used in packaging materials to enhance visual appeal and attract consumer attention. Request Customization: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestCustomizationNew.asp?id=239119498 Market Players Mergers, new product launches and expansions are the major growth strategies adopted by the key players in the market. The key global players in the fluorescent pigment market include Radiant Color NV (Belgium), Luminochem (Hungary), Wanlong Chemical Co., Ltd. (China), Sinloihi Co., Ltd. (Japan), Wuxi Minghui International Trading Co., Ltd. (China), DayGlo Color Corp. (US), Aron Universal Limited (India), Vicome Corp. (China), Hangzhou Aibai Chemical Co., Ltd. (China), Brilliant Group Inc. (US) and others. Browse Adjacent Market: Specialty Chemicals Market Research Reports Related Reports: Organic Pigments Market - Global Forecast to 2026 Cosmetic Pigments Market - Global Forecast to 2026 About MarketsandMarkets MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's best management consulting firms by Forbes, as per their recent report. MarketsandMarkets is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. We have the widest lens on emerging technologies, making us proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients. Earlier this year, we made a formal transformation into one of America's best management consulting firms as per a survey conducted by Forbes. The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion of new revenue streams that are substituting existing revenue streams in this decade alone. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines - TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing. Built on the 'GIVE Growth' principle, we work with several Forbes Global 2000 B2B companies - helping them stay relevant in a disruptive ecosystem. Our insights and strategies are molded by our industry experts, cutting-edge AI-powered Market Intelligence Cloud, and years of research. The KnowledgeStore (our Market Intelligence Cloud) integrates our research, facilitates an analysis of interconnections through a set of applications, helping clients look at the entire ecosystem and understand the revenue shifts happening in their industry. To find out more, visit www.MarketsandMarkets.com or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook. Contact: Mr. Aashish Mehra MarketsandMarkets INC. 630 Dundee Road Suite 430 Northbrook, IL 60062 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: sales@marketsandmarkets.com Research Insight: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/fluorescent-pigment-market.asp Visit Our Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ Content Source: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/PressReleases/fluorescent-pigment.asp Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2297424/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/fluorescent-pigment-market-worth-498-million-by-2028--exclusive-report-by-marketsandmarkets-302057488.html MELBOURNE (dpa-AFX) - Rio Tinto, BHP and BlueScope have partnered in their efforts to accelerate the decarbonization of steelmaking by agreeing to jointly investigate the development of the country's first ironmaking electric smelting furnace or ESF pilot plant, the companies said in a statement. The Australia's two largest iron ore producers and its biggest steelmaker will consolidate the work each party has completed to date, leveraging both BHP's and Rio Tinto's deep knowledge of Pilbara iron ores with BlueScope's unique operating experience in ESF technology. According to the companies, the collaboration provides a platform to develop and potentially invest in a pilot facility and aims to demonstrate that production of molten iron from Pilbara ores is feasible using renewable power when combined with Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) process technology. If successful, it could help open a potential pathway to near-zero greenhouse gas emission-intensity operations for steelmakers that rely on Australian iron ore to meet global steel demand. The companies said they will assess several locations in Australia for the proposed pilot facility, and will consider factors like supporting infrastructure, available workforce, access to target industry and supply chain partners, and suitability for operational trials. The pre-feasibility study work program is expected to conclude at year-end. If approved, the pilot facility could be commissioned as early as 2027. Copyright(c) 2024 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. EASTON, PA / ACCESSWIRE / February 8, 2024 / Paragon Technologies, Inc. ("Paragon"), a diversified holding company, owning approximately 4.8% of the outstanding shares of Ocean Power Technologies, Inc. (NYSE American:OPTT), ("Company") ("OPT"), today issues the following statement to OPT shareholders: Yesterday, OPT again postponed its annual meeting due to OPT's inability to obtain a quorum. Embarrassed and desperate, the Board now has delayed the annual meeting for three weeks until February 28, 2024. Paragon is investigating whether OPT's adjournment is in violation of SEC rules. Paragon Chairman and CEO Sham Gad states, "OPT's continued failure to obtain a quorum for its "2023" annual meeting confirms the glaring disapproval from shareholders related to OPT's atrocious financial results and self-serving board actions and reflects how out of touch OPT's Board is from its shareholders - the rightful owners of the business." Mr. Gad continues "OPT shareholders are simply sick and tired of seeing shareholder value decline every single day, nearly 90% since the appointment of Philip Stratmann as CEO and a newly 'refreshed' Board was assembled." "For years, individual shareholders have been ignored by this Board as they continued to reward themselves with bonuses, free shares of stock, and salary increases while shareholders watched the value of their investment in OPT evaporate," states Gad. To demonstrate the arrogance of this Board and their disregard for their shareholders, OPT tells shareholders "as time is short, shareholders are urged to protect their investmentby voting for all of OPT's directors." So far, OPT's directors have protected your investment by allowing it to decline by nearly 90%. Paragon urges OPT shareholders to continue showing the OPT directors and executives that you are sick and tired of their self-serving ways and ignore any and all messages from OPT asking you to vote the white proxy card. Do not let this Board get away with another year of destroying shareholder value. We believe that the OPT Board has expended millions of dollars of the Company's resources entrenching themselves and making misleading statements about Paragon to desperately achieve a quorum. And over the next three weeks, we believe OPT will continue to expend a significant amount of the Company's resources in a desperate attempt to further entrench themselves by telling shareholders misleading statements about the validity of Paragon's campaign. We urge shareholders to DISREGARD THE WHITE PROXY from OPT and send a strong message that OPT's disastrous financial and share price performance under this current board and CEO can no longer be accepted. The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. Any vote for this current Board, given their track record of destroying shareholder value, is the classic definition of insanity. If you have voted in ANY WAY on the white proxy, you should revote the BLUE proxy to save your investment from a likely complete total loss. If you have NOT YET VOTED, we urge to ignore any and all calls or emails from OPT and completely disregard the white proxy. Please email us at ir@pgntgroup.com with any questions about how to vote your BLUE proxy card. We appreciate the support from shareholders thus far. If shareholders have any questions, please contact our Proxy Solicitor, Alliance Advisors at: Alliance Advisors 200 Broadacres Drive, 3rd Floor Bloomfield, NJ 07003 Toll-Free Phone: 855-200-8651 Email: OPTT@allianceadvisors.com No matter how many shares you hold, we would like to hear from you. Please email us at ir@pgntgroup.com if you need any help in voting your BLUE proxy. By voting on Paragon's BLUE universal proxy card, you can send a message to OPTthat you do not support their actions in relation to the Annual Meeting and attempting to block the recognition of Paragon's nominees. OPT has said that it will disregard proxy votes in favor of Paragon's director nominees. Whether OPT may lawfully disregard Paragon's director nominees is an issue that Paragon expects will be resolved by the Delaware courts. Stockholders should review the section of Paragon's proxy statement titled "Questions And Answers Relating To This Proxy Solicitation--Why is OPT saying it will disregard Paragon's director nominations, and how does that impact proxies that stockholders provide to Paragon?" ### Paragon Technologies, Inc., together with the other participants named herein, has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") a definitive proxy statement and an accompanying proxy card soliciting votes for the election of director nominees at the 2023 annual meeting of shareholders of Ocean Power Technologies, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the "company"). Paragon Technologies, Inc. is the beneficial owner of 2,639,853 shares of common stock of the company, par value $0.001 per share ("common stock"). Paragon Technologies, Inc., and Paragon's director nominees Hesham M. Gad, Shawn M. Harpen, Jack H. Jacobs, and Samuel S. Weiser, are the participants in the proxy solicitation. Mr. Gad, Executive Chairman of Paragon's Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer of Paragon, and Messrs. Jacobs and Weiser, directors of Paragon, may be deemed to beneficially own the shares of the company's common stock held by Paragon. Ms. Harpen does not own beneficially or of record any securities of the company. Updated information regarding the participants and their direct and indirect interests in the solicitation, by security holdings or otherwise, has been and will be included in Paragon's proxy statement and other materials filed with the SEC. SHAREHOLDERS OF THE COMPANY SHOULD READ THE PROXY STATEMENT AND OTHER PROXY MATERIALS CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY AS THEY CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION RELATING TO THE COMPANY'S ANNUAL MEETING, PARAGON'S SOLICITATION OF PROXIES AND PARAGON'S NOMINEES TO THE BOARD. SUCH PROXY MATERIALS ARE AVAILABLE AT NO CHARGE ON THE SEC'S WEBSITE AT WWW.SEC.GOV OR FROM PARAGON TECHNOLOGIES, INC. REQUESTS FOR COPIES SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO PARAGON'S PROXY SOLICITOR. SOURCE: Paragon Technologies Inc. View the original press release on accesswire.com CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand, Feb. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Aotearoa has reinforced its place in the global aerospace industry with the opening of the Tawhaki National Aerospace Centre and new sealed runway at Kaitorete, today. The new infrastructure coupled with technical support will super charge Aotearoa's fast-growing aerospace sector and help meet international demand. Domestic and international companies are already testing and trialling leading-edge technologies at Kaitorete, a short 50-minute drive from Otautahi Christchurch CBD and now more crafts and companies can take flight. US-based Wisk Aero recently conducted its world-first airspace integration test flights for an uncrewed aircraft from Kaitorete and Dawn Aerospace and Kea Aerospace will now be able to conduct horizontal space launches and stratospheric flights from the site. The new 1-kilometre runway and planned hangar facilities were funded by a $5.4 million grant from the New Zealand Government's Regional Strategic Partnership Fund, administered by Kanoa. This joins a sealed taxiway and fuel pad, grass runway, vertiport, office facilities and data connections. Tawhaki Board Member David Perenara-O'Connell said mana whenua (indigenous people) of Kaitorete were proud to be at the forefront of supporting the country's aerospace sector and acknowledged their partnership with the New Zealand Government in the Tawhaki Joint Venture. "To fully enable the sector, supply chains and realise the economic benefits for all New Zealanders, takes a collaborative approach. We're grateful for the support of our government, local authorities, regulators, aerospace partners, research and science communities, and suppliers who share our vision of a world-leading hub for innovation and exploration. "We believe that this mission is truly unique. The way in which we weave together matauranga Maori (indigenous knowledge) with cutting-edge innovation in aerospace and environmental rejuvenation, marks a new era in sustainable land use." Aotearoa is one of the top countries for space launches and aerospace testing and trialling, with an advanced and responsive regulatory environment, sparse population and low air and sea traffic. Kaitorete offers clear skies and access to a wide range of orbits from an expansive, unpopulated, flat strip of land 25km long, nestled between Te Waihora (Lake Ellesmere) and the Pacific Ocean. Its proximity to world-class universities, international air and seaports and advanced manufacturing capabilities in nearby Otautahi Christchurch is globally unique. Tawhaki Chief Executive Linda Falwasser said the Joint Venture was taking a staged approach to its developments, with the potential to support vertical space launch in future. "We have one of the world's best locations for aerospace and space launch and we're prioritising critical infrastructure alongside rejuvenation of this special whenua (land). This includes exploring solar power and green hydrogen production and storage on site. "We have received strong global demand for a site that delivers technically while holding steadfastly to its values of protecting and preserving our people and planet." "Having this key infrastructure so accessible is hugely enabling for the whole sector," said Dawn Aerospace Co-Founder James Powell. "It will be transformative to the development of our rocket-powered aircraft, the Mk-II Aurora." Kea Aerospace CEO Mark Rocket said Tawhaki is enabling an exciting future for the region and the country. "Kaitorete is situated in an ideal location for aerospace research and development and offers Kea Aerospace unique opportunities for flight testing and operations of our solar-powered stratospheric aircraft." Video - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2337824/T_whaki_Runway_Video.mp4 Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2337825/Tawhaki_National_Aerospace_Centre_Runway_01.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/twhaki-national-aerospace-centre-provides-mission-critical-boost-for-aerospace-sector-302058409.html NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO US NEWSWIRES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES North Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2024) - Lion One Metals Limited (TSXV: LIO) (OTCQX: LOMLF) (ASX: LLO) ("Lion One" or the "Company") announces that further to its previously announced overnight marketed public offering (the "Offering") of units of the Company (the "Offered Units"), it has fully filled the Offering and entered into an underwriting agreement (the "Underwriting Agreement") with a syndicate of underwriters led by Cantor Fitzgerald Canada Corporation ("CFCC"), as lead underwriter and sole bookrunner, and including Canaccord Genuity Corp., Eight Capital, and Raymond James (collectively with CFCC, the "Underwriters") to sell: (i) 21,000,000 common share units ("Units") at a price to the public of C$0.50 per Unit (the "Unit Price"). Each Unit shall be comprised of one common share of the Company ("Common Share") and one common share purchase warrant ("Warrant"). Each Warrant shall entitle the holder to purchase one Common Share at C$0.65 at any time on or before the date which is 36 months after the Closing Date. The Company has granted to the Underwriters an option (the "Over-Allotment Option"), exercisable in whole or in part, in the sole discretion of the Underwriters, for a period of 30 days following the closing of the Offering, to purchase up to an additional 3,150,000 Units at the Unit Price. If the Over-Allotment Option is exercised in full, the total gross proceeds to the Company will be approximately C$12.1 million. The Company will pay the Underwriters a cash commission equal to 6.0% of the gross proceeds of the Offering, including proceeds received from the exercise of the Over-Allotment Option, in addition to broker warrants to purchase up to 6.0% of the number of Offered Units, including the Offered Units from the exercise of the Over-Allotment Option sold in the Offering (the "Broker Warrants"), at the closing of the Offering. Each Broker Warrant shall entitle the Underwriters to purchase one unit having the same terms as a Unit at the Unit Price at any time on or before the date which is 36 months after the closing date. The net proceeds received by the Company from the sale of the Offered Units will be used for development and ramp up expenses at the Tuvatu Gold project located in Fiji, as well as for general corporate expenses & purposes. The Offering will be made by way of a prospectus supplement (the "Prospectus Supplement") to the Company's existing Canadian short form base shelf prospectus dated May 13, 2022 (the "Base Shelf Prospectus"). The Prospectus Supplement will be filed with the securities commissions in Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta and is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Alternatively, the Prospectus Supplement and related Base Shelf Prospectus may be obtained upon request by contacting the Company or Cantor Fitzgerald Canada Corporation in Canada, attention: Equity Capital Markets, 181 University Avenue, Suite 1500, Toronto, ON, M5H 3M7, email: ecmcanada@cantor.com. The Offered Units will not be offered or sold in the United States except under Rule 144A or Regulation D or in such other manner as to not require registration under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The Offered Units may also be offered in those jurisdictions outside of Canada and the United States as agreed to by the Company and the Underwriters provided that no prospectus filing or comparable obligation arises and the Company does not thereafter become subject to continuous disclosure obligations in such jurisdictions. The Offering is expected to close on or about February 14, 2024, and is subject to the completion of formal documentation and receipt of regulatory approvals, including the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. About Lion One Metals Limited Lion One is an emerging Canadian gold producer headquartered in North Vancouver BC, with new operations established in late 2023 at its 100% owned Tuvatu Alkaline Gold Project in Fiji. The Tuvatu project comprises the high-grade Tuvatu Alkaline Gold Deposit, the Underground Gold Mine, the Pilot Plant, and the Assay Lab. The Company also has an extensive exploration license covering the entire Navilawa Caldera, which is host to multiple mineralized zones and highly prospective exploration targets. As disclosed in its "Technical Report and PEA Update for the Tuvatu Gold Project" dated April 29, 2022, the 2018 Tuvatu resource estimate comprises 1,007,000 tonnes indicated at 8.50 g/t Au (274,600 oz. Au) and 1,325,000 tonnes inferred at 9.0 g/t Au (384,000 oz. Au) at a cut-off grade of 3.0 g/t Au. The technical report is available on the Lion One website at www.liononemetals.com and under the Lion One profile on the SEDAR+ website at www.sedarplus.ca. In accordance with National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, Alex Nichol, MAIG, VP Geology and Exploration for Lion One, is the Qualified Person for the Company and has reviewed and is responsible for the technical and scientific content of this news release. Contact Information Investor inquiries: info@liononemetals.com Phone:1-855-805-1250 (toll free North America) Website: www.liononemetals.com Forward-Looking Statements This press release may contain statements that may be deemed to be "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward-looking information. Generally, forward-looking information may be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "proposed", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases, or by the use of words or phrases which state that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, or might occur or be achieved. This forward-looking information reflects Lion One Metals Limited's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to Lion One Metals Limited and on assumptions Lion One Metals Limited believes are reasonable. These assumptions include, but are not limited to, the results of the Offering and associated marketing efforts, the use of proceeds of the Offering, actual results of exploration projects being equivalent to or better than estimated results in technical reports, assessment reports, and other geological reports or prior exploration results., and results of ongoing production operations. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance, or achievements of Lion One Metals Limited or its subsidiaries to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such risks and other factors may include, but are not limited to: prevailing capital markets conditions, the stage development of Lion One Metals Limited, general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; the actual results of current research and development or operational activities; competition; uncertainty as to patent applications and intellectual property rights; product liability and lack of insurance; delay or failure to receive board or regulatory approvals; changes in legislation, including environmental legislation, affecting mining, timing and availability of external financing on acceptable terms; not realizing on the potential benefits of technology; conclusions of economic evaluations; and lack of qualified, skilled labor or loss of key individuals. Although Lion One Metals Limited 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. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Lion One Metals Limited does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/197368 SOURCE: Lion One Metals Limited Malaysian telco CelcomDigi said it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ) to accelerate the transformation of Hulu Kelang into a smart city. Under the MoU, CelcomDigi and MPAJ will collaborate over the next ten years to explore and implement potential 5G technology solutions delivered on a fibre optic infrastructure to form the foundation for a smart city ecosystem in Hulu Kelang. CelcomDigi will oversee the coordination and implementation of smart city-related solutions. The telco will also develop an ecosystem of partners including innovators, entrepreneurs, startups, technology providers and device manufacturers to develop smart city solutions. CelcomDigi said will also spearhead a sandbox for partners to test their products and services in a live environment. CelcomDigi and MPAJ are working closely to assess and identify the best smart city solutions that will transform Hulu Kelang into an integrated digital district, creating a modern and sustainable environment that both promotes economic growth and improves the welfare of its residents, said CelcomDigi CEO Idham Nawawi. Hulu Kelang a state constituency in Gombak District, Selangor is one of five state constituencies administered by MPAJ. The partnership with CelcomDigi was formed to help carry out MPAJs "Smart City Framework" plan, which it formulated in January 2022 to transform all of Ampang Jaya into a smart city, with a focus on smart infrastructure, smart economy, smart community, smart environment, and smart governance. That said, CelcomDigis participation under the MoU will focus specifically on Hulu Kelang. To date, MPAJ says it has already deployed several smart-city solutions in several locations across its administrative area, such as CCTV, Wi-Fi and Smart Junction solutions. Selangor Chief Minister Seri Amirudin said the project is in line with the state government's plan to transform Selangor into a Smart State by 2025. We aim to leverage the best of local and global technology partnerships to develop this ecosystem, which hopefully can serve as a model to benefit other municipalities, with the net effect of having an interoperable network of smart city solutions in more areas across the country, CelcomDigis Idham said. Support from existing investors Redmile Group, Invus and Sofinnova Partners Participation from leading US Healthcare Specialists funds including Aquilo Capital, as well as two large investment management firms Financing will enable the Company to extend its cash runway through the end of Q2 2025 Regulatory News: Sensorion (FR0012596468 ALSEN) a pioneering clinical-stage biotechnology company which specializes in the development of novel therapies to restore, treat and prevent hearing loss disorders, today announced a 50.5 million offering reserved to specific categories of investors (the "Reserved Offering") through the issuance of 88,594,737 new ordinary shares of the Company (the "New Shares") at a price per New Share of 0.57 (the "Subscription Price") to the benefit of Redmile Group, Invus and Sofinnova Partners, existing shareholders, and leading US Healthcare Specialists funds including Aquilo Capital, as well as two large investment management firms. The settlement-delivery of the Reserved Offering is expected to take place around February 13, 2024, subject to customary conditions. Nawal Ouzren, Chief Executive Officer of Sensorion, said: "We are delighted to announce today's successful capital raise of EUR 50.5 million. We are very thankful to the top tier new investors who joined us and express our gratitude to our existing shareholders who have reaffirmed their support in this transaction, Redmile Group, Invus and Sofinnova Partners. This strengthened shareholder base reinforces Sensorion's ambition to advance its pipeline of innovative therapies intended to improve the quality of life of patients suffering from hearing disorders. The capital increase will enable the Company to pursue its relentless efforts in moving forward its gene therapy programs developed in the framework of the renewed collaboration with the Institut Pasteur. Firstly, SENS-501, our lead program, which has recently received approval from competent authorities to initiate its Phase 1/2 clinical study, Audiogene, in some European countries with France as first country. We are now entirely focused on the patients recruitment. The proceeds will also benefit our second gene therapy program, GJB2-GT, allowing us to complete the preclinical IND/CTA enabling activities in order to target Clinical Trial Applications submission in H1 2025. Khalil Barrage, ad interim Chair, Sensorion, said: "We extend a warm welcome to the new investors who joined us. Their arrival in Sensorion's capital not only strengthens our financial foundation but also propels us forward on our path to innovation and scientific breakthrough for patients suffering from hearing disorders. We are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and look forward to achieving new heights together. Expected next clinical milestones: H1 2024 SENS-401 in combination with cochlear implantation: Primary endpoint readout H2 2024, World Congress of Audiology SENS-401 in Cisplatin-Induced Ototoxicity: Preliminary safety and efficacy data H2 2024 SENS-501: First patient communication H1 2025 SENS-501: Enrollment of the first two cohorts of Phase 1/2 Audiogene trial completed H1 2025 GJB2-GT: Clinical Trial Applications Submission Impact on cash flow and use of proceeds The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Reserved Offering, which amount to circa 47 million (based on the aggregate Subscription Price), to fund the company's R&D activities through the end of Q2 2025, covering GJB2 CTA submission and the first two cohorts of the Audiogene Phase 1/2 clinical trial, which was approved in Europe in January 2024 as well as for other R&D and corporate overhead expenses. Based on its forecasted expenses, cash balance as of December 31st, 2023, which amounts to c. 36.5 million (unaudited), as well as the net proceeds from the Reserved Offering, the Company believes that it will be able to finance its operations through the end of Q2 2025. The company continues to pursue non-dilutive financing for the other assets. Main terms of the Reserved Offering Sensorion's board of directors and Chief Executive Officer using the delegation of powers granted by the 8th resolution of the extraordinary shareholders' general meeting held on December 20th, 2023 (capital increase with cancellation of preferential subscription rights in favor of categories of persons with specific characteristics) and in accordance with article L. 225-138 et seq. of the French Commercial Code (Code de commerce), have decided on February 8, 2024, to complete the issuance of the New Shares. The New Shares were issued at a price of 0.57, which represents a 0,96 discount to the weighted average share price on the five days preceding the date on which the issuance price is set, in accordance with the 8th resolution of the extraordinary shareholders' meeting of the Company held on December 20th, 2023. The issuance of the 88,594,737 New Shares will result in an immediate capital increase of 50,499,000.09 (i.e., a nominal amount of 8,859,473.70 and a total issuance premium of 41,639,526.39 and corresponding to a nominal value of 10 cents (0.10) plus an issuance premium of 0.47 per New Share), representing approximately 47% of the Company's share capital and voting rights outstanding before the Reserved Offering. Redmile Group, Invus and Sofinnova Partners who are existing shareholders and are also represented on the Board of Directors of the Company, will participate in the Reserved Offering for subscription amounts of 9.6 million, 9.2 million and 7.0 million, respectively, representing 19%, 18% and 14% of the aggregate gross amount of the Reserved Offering, respectively. It is specified that Redmile Group, Invus and Sofinnova Partners, who are also members of Sensorion's Board of Directors, did not take part in the vote of the Reserved Offering at the Board of Directors' meeting held on February 8, 2024. Following the settlement-delivery expected to occur on February 13, 2024, the Company's total share capital will be 27,567,553.10 divided into 275,675,531 ordinary shares, each with a par value of 0.10. The New Shares will be fungible with the existing ordinary shares of the Company and will be admitted to trading on Euronext Growth in Paris under the ISIN FR0012596468. Leerink Partners LLC ("Leerink Partners") and Stifel Europe AG ("Stifel") are acting as lead agents in connection with the Reserved Offering. Chardan Capital Markets LLC ("Chardan") is acting as placement agent in connection with the Reserved Offering (Leerink Partners together with Stifel and Chardan, the "Placing Agents"). Stifel is acting as Centralizing Agent. Namsen Capital is acting as equity capital markets advisor. Shareholding Structure after the Reserved Offering On an illustrative basis, a shareholder holding 1% of the Company's share capital before the Reserved Offering and who did not participate in the Reserved Offering will hold 0.68% of the Company's share capital after the issuance of the New Shares. To the Company's knowledge, the shareholding structure, on a non-diluted base, before and after the Reserved Offering, breaks down as follows: Shareholding Structure as of February 1st, 2024 (non diluted) Shareholding Structure POST FINANCING (non diluted) Shareholding Structure POST FINANCING (fully diluted) Number of shares Number of shares (%) Number of Voting Rights Number of Voting Rights (%) Number of shares Number of shares (%) Number of Voting Rights Number of Voting Rights (%) Number of shares Number of shares (%) Number of Voting Rights Number of Voting Rights (%) Redmile Group LLC 46 428 571 24,82% 46 428 571 24,84% 63 270 676 23,0% 63 270 676 23,0% 81 127 819 26,9% 81 127 819 26,9% Invus Artal Group 62 204 700 33,25% 62 204 700 33,28% 78 345 050 28,4% 78 345 050 28,4% 78 345 050 26,0% 78 345 050 26,0% Sofinnova Partners 40 469 458 21,63% 40 469 458 21,65% 52 750 159 19,1% 52 750 159 19,1% 52 750 159 17,5% 52 750 159 17,5% WuXi App Tec 5 249 608 2,81% 5 249 608 2,81% 5 249 608 1,9% 5 249 608 1,9% 5 249 608 1,7% 5 249 608 1,7% 3SBio 4 055 150 2,17% 4 055 150 2,17% 4 055 150 1,5% 4 055 150 1,5% 4 055 150 1,3% 4 055 150 1,3% Innobio 3 499 874 1,87% 3 499 874 1,87% 3 499 874 1,3% 3 499 874 1,3% 3 499 874 1,2% 3 499 874 1,2% SONOVA AG 2 941 176 1,57% 2 941 176 1,57% 2 941 176 1,1% 2 941 176 1,1% 2 941 176 1,0% 2 941 176 1,0% Cochlear 533 755 0,29% 533 755 0,29% 533 755 0,2% 533 755 0,2% 533 755 0,2% 533 755 0,2% New investors 0 0,00% 0 0,00% 43 331 581 15,7% 43 331 581 15,7% 43 331 581 14,4% 43 331 581 14,4% Sub Total Institutional Shareholders 165 382 292 88,40% 165 382 292 88,47% 253 977 029 92,1% 253 977 029 92,2% 271 834 172 90,2% 271 834 172 90,2% Officers 160 000 0,09% 160 000 0,09% 160 000 0,1% 160 000 0% 4 010 355 1,3% 4 010 355 1,3% Directors 0,0% 0% 1 365 290 0,5% 1 365 290 0,5% Employees consulting 0,0% 0% 2 352 020 0,8% 2 352 020 0,8% Treasury shares 151 162 0,08% 151 162 0,1% 0,0% 151 162 0,1% 0,0% Free Float 21 387 340 11,43% 21 387 340 11,44% 21 387 340 7,8% 21 387 340 7,8% 21 683 340 7,2% 21 683 340 7,2% TOTAL 187 080 794 186 929 632 100,00% 275 675 531 100,0% 275 524 369 100,0% 301 396 339 100,0% 301 245 177 100,0% Lock-up agreements In connection with the Reserved Offering, the Company has entered into a lock-up agreement restricting the issuance of additional ordinary shares for a period ending 90 days following the execution of the securities purchase agreement entered into with the investors, subject to customary exceptions. The Company's management, Board members and shareholders represented at the Board of Directors who hold ordinary shares of the Company are also subject to a lock-up for a period of 90 days following the execution of the securities purchase agreement entered into with the investors, subject to customary exceptions. Settlement-delivery of the Reserved Offering The admission of the New Shares to trading on the Euronext Growth market in Paris is scheduled for the time of settlement and delivery, which is expected to take place on February 13, 2024. The New Shares will be immediately assimilated to the Company's existing shares already traded on Euronext Growth in Paris, and will be able to be traded, from their issuance, on the same listing line (ISIN code: FR0012596468). The Reserved Offering has not given rise to a prospectus submitted for approval by the AMF. Risk Factors The Company draws the public's attention to the risk factors related to the Company and its activities presented in section I.3 of the Rapport financier annuel for the year ended December 31st, 2022, which is available free of charge on the website of the Company (www.sensorion.com). In addition, investors are invited to consider the following risks: (i) shareholders stake in the Company will be diluted further to the issuance of the New Shares for the shareholders who did not participate to the Reserved Offering, (ii) the market price for the Company's shares may fluctuate and fall below the subscription price of the shares issued pursuant to the Reserved Offering, (iii) the volatility and liquidity of the Company's shares may fluctuate significantly, (iv) sales of the Company's shares may occur on the market and have a negative impact on the market price of the shares, and (v) the Company's shareholders could undergo a potentially material dilution resulting from any future capital increases that are needed to finance the Company. About Sensorion Sensorion is a pioneering clinical-stage biotech company, which specializes in the development of novel therapies to restore, treat and prevent hearing loss disorders, a significant global unmet medical need. Sensorion has built a unique R&D technology platform to expand its understanding of the pathophysiology and etiology of inner ear related diseases, enabling it to select the best targets and mechanisms of action for drug candidates. It has two gene therapy programs aimed at correcting hereditary monogenic forms of deafness, developed in the framework of its broad strategic collaboration focused on the genetics of hearing with the Institut Pasteur. SENS-501 (OTOF-GT) targets deafness caused by mutations of the gene encoding for otoferlin and is currently developed in a Phase 1/2 clinical study, and GJB2-GT targets hearing loss related to mutations in GJB2 gene to potentially address important hearing loss segments in adults and children. The Company is also working on the identification of biomarkers to improve diagnosis of these underserved illnesses. Sensorion's portfolio also comprises clinical-stage small molecule programs for the treatment and prevention of hearing loss disorders. Sensorion's clinical-stage portfolio includes one Phase 2 product: SENS-401 (Arazasetron) progressing in a Phase 2 proof of concept clinical study of SENS-401 in Cisplatin-Induced Ototoxicity (CIO) and, with partner Cochlear Limited, in a study of SENS-401 in patients scheduled for cochlear implantation. A Phase 2 study of SENS-401 was also completed in Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSNHL) in January 2022. www.sensorion.com Label: SENSORION ISIN: FR0012596468 Mnemonic: ALSEN Forward-looking statements This press release contains certain forward-looking statements concerning Sensorion and its business. Such forward looking statements are based on assumptions that Sensorion considers to be reasonable. However, there can be no assurance that such forward-looking statements will be verified, which statements are subject to numerous risks, including the risks set forth in the 2022 full year financial report published on March 30, 2023, and available on Sensorion's website and to the development of economic conditions, financial markets and the markets in which Sensorion operates. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are also subject to risks not yet known to Sensorion or not currently considered material by Sensorion. The occurrence of all or part of such risks could cause actual results, financial conditions, performance or achievements of Sensorion to be materially different from such forward-looking statements. This press release and the information that it contains do not constitute an offer to sell or subscribe for, or a solicitation of an offer to purchase or subscribe for, Sensorion shares in any country. The communication of this press release in certain countries may constitute a violation of local laws and regulations. Any recipient of this press release must inform oneself of any such local restrictions and comply therewith. Disclaimer This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy ordinary shares of the Company, and shall not constitute an offer, solicitation or sale in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of that jurisdiction. This announcement is an advertisement and not a prospectus within the meaning of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 June 2017, as amended (the "Prospectus Regulation"). In France, the Reserved Offering described above is exclusively carried out in the form of a placement to a category of institutional investors, in accordance with Article L. 225-138 of the Code de commerce and applicable regulations. With respect to Member States of the European Economic Area (including France), no action has been taken or will be taken to permit a public offering of the securities referred to in this press release which would require the publication of a prospectus (pursuant to article 3 of the Prospectus Regulation) in any Member State. This press release and the information it contains is not an offer to sell, nor the solicitation of an offer to subscribe for or buy the New Shares in the United States or any other jurisdiction where restrictions may apply including notably Canada, Australia or Japan. Securities may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration under the Securities Act or an exemption from registration thereunder. Sensorion does not intend to register the New Shares under the Securities Act or conduct a public offering of the New Shares in France, the United States, or in any other jurisdiction. This communication is being distributed only to, and is directed only at (a) persons outside the United Kingdom, (b) persons who have professional experience in matters relating to investments falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the "Order"), and (c) high net worth entities, and other persons to whom it may otherwise lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as "relevant persons"). Any investment or investment activity to which this communication relates is available only to relevant persons and will be engaged in only with relevant persons. Any person who is not a relevant person should not act or rely on this communication or any of its contents. This distribution of this press release may be subject to legal or regulatory restrictions in certain jurisdictions. Any person who comes into possession of this press release must inform him or herself of and comply with any such restrictions. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240208595169/en/ Contacts: Investor Relations Noemie Djokovic, Investor Relations and Communications Associate ir.contact@sensorion-pharma.com Press Relations Ulysse Communication Pierre-Louis Germain 00 33 (0)6 64 79 97 51 plgermain@ulysse-communication.com Bruno Arabian 00 00(0)6 87 88 47 26 barabian@ulysse-communication.com LONDON (dpa-AFX) - Tesco Plc (TSCO.L, TSCDY.PK), a British groceries and general merchandise retailer, on Friday announced a deal with lending major Barclays Plc (BARC.L, BCS), to sell certain banking operations. 'The retailer's existing banking operations in credit cards, loans, and savings will be sold to Barclays, removing 7.7 billion pounds of capital-intensive assets and 6.7 billion pounds of financial liabilities,' Tesco said in a statement. Tesco will retain all other existing activities of Tesco Bank, including insurance, ATMs, travel money and gift card as they are capital-light, profitable businesses. The partnership is initially for 10 years. Under the terms, Tesco will receive annual income for the use of the Tesco brand. In return, the company expects to receive around 600 million pounds of proceeds, in addition to approximately 100 million pounds further net cash. Combined with the previously announced special dividend of 250 million pounds paid by Tesco Bank in August last year, the transaction will fetch 1 billion pounds of cash receipt for Tesco. The majority of this cash will be returned to shareholders though share buyback. The transaction, which is scheduled to close in the second half of calendar 2024, is expected to mildly add to earnings per share of Tesco. As part of the deal, about 2800 Tesco Bank colleagues will be part of Barclays. At completion, the net asset value of the disposed banking operations is estimated to be at around 1 billion pounds, which is around two-thirds of Tesco Bank's net asset value. Combined, the pro forma annual adjusted operating profit from the partnership and retained activities is expected to be around 80 million pounds to 100 million pounds, more than half of the current year expected profits from Tesco Bank. According to Tesco, the partnership announced today 'allows to combine Tesco brand with Barclays' financial expertise to Tesco-branded banking products and services to its customers.' Copyright(c) 2024 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Video-Workshop: Das kleine Einmaleins der Charttechnik In diesem kostenlosen Video-Workshop von Stefan Klotter lernen Sie alles uber Charttechnik. Lassen Sie sich diesen kostenfreien Workshop nicht entgehen! Hier klicken ISTANBUL, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- MCAN Health, an internationally accredited medical travel company based in Istanbul is pleased to declare its sponsorship of the UK's National Pharmacy Association. Gulsultan Dogan, the visionary founder of MCAN Health , is pleased to announce the company's sponsorship of the National Pharmacy Association (NPA), a notable and non-profit organization focused on enhancing community health services across the United Kingdom. Upon the invitation letter, Dogan states, 'We did not hesitate to show our support and positively answer the invitation letter. As a professional in the healthcare sector for years, I firmly believe medical care is a human right that should be accessible to everyone without enduring lengthy waiting lists. NPA's mission to boost community health services in United Kingdom aligns perfectly with our core values which is the dedication to improving global healthcare accessibility.' Esteemed UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who worked in his mother's pharmacy during his youth, also shows his support to the NPA and recognizes the indispensable role of local pharmacies. Sunak, having personally witnessed the invaluable contributions of these pharmacies to the health of the UK community, emphasizes the need to empower individuals to access care services conveniently at local pharmacies, thereby reducing the strain on GP waiting lists. Aligned with Sunak's vision, MCAN Health acknowledges and values the power and contribution of local pharmacies in raising healthcare standards within the UK community. About MCAN Health Established in 2015, MCAN Health has been offering services in hair transplants, dental treatments, and plastic surgery for international patients in Istanbul, Turkey. Employing a forward-thinking and technology-driven approach, the company is recognized for its innovative contributions to the sector. Through various initiatives, including obtaining international TEMOS accreditation, achieving an NPS score of 8.8, and garnering positive reviews on independent platforms, the company aims to demonstrate its commitment to quality and patient satisfaction. It also has received several awards over the years, with the latest one 'The Most Successful Health Tourism of the Year' at the Social Responsibility Awards, presented by the Health Volunteers Turkey Association. This accolade was granted to MCAN Health by the respected juries in the healthcare sector for being the most socially and environmentally responsible company in the sector. MCAN Health's core values, as highlighted by CEO Dogan, include patient and quality-centric care, staying current with technological advancements, environmental and social responsibility, and a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion. These principles are the foundation of the company's culture. Related Links: https://www.mcanhealth.com/ Media Contact: Ozumsu Alagoz 0553 6273765 ozumsu@mcanhealth.com Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2337862/MCAN.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/mcan-health-announces-sponsorship-to-uk-national-pharmacy-association-in-line-with-uk-prime-minister-rishi-sunaks-vision-for-local-pharmacies-302058458.html The increase in demand for frozen food products, the rise in global trade of perishable products, especially in emerging economies, and the growth in trend of e-commerce have led to increased demand for last-mile delivery services which is driving the growth of the global truck refrigeration unit market. WILMINGTON, Del., Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Truck Refrigeration Unit Market by Type (Roof Mount and Split), Trailer Size (Below 20ft, 20-40ft, and Above 40ft), and End-User (Food, Pharmaceutical, Chemical Industry, and Others): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032". According to the report, the global truck refrigeration unit industry size generated $12,682.3 million in 2022 and is estimated to reach $22,997.7 million by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.3% from 2023 to 2032. (We are providing truck refrigeration unit industry report as per your research requirement, including the Latest Industry Insight's Evolution, Potential and Russia-Ukraine War Impact Analysis) 137 - Tables 43 - Charts 287 - Pages Download Sample Report and Table of Content - https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/5617 Prime Determinants of Growth The increasing demand for transporting perishable goods, such as food and pharmaceuticals, has been a significant driver. As global trade continues to surge, the need for reliable and efficient refrigeration solutions to maintain the integrity of temperature-sensitive products during transportation becomes paramount. In addition, stringent regulations and quality standards imposed by various governing bodies amplify the requirement for advanced refrigeration units that comply with these specifications. Technological advancements in truck refrigeration units, including the integration of smart and sustainable features, further fuel market growth. The rising awareness of environmental concerns and the pursuit of greener alternatives in the logistics industry contribute to the demand for energy-efficient and eco-friendly refrigeration solutions. Moreover, the expansion of cold chain logistics and the continuous growth of e-commerce, especially in the food and pharmaceutical sectors, play a pivotal role in propelling the truck refrigeration unit market forward. Report Coverage and Details: Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2023-2032 Base Year 2022 Market Size In 2022 $12,682.3 Million Market Size In 2032 $22,997.7 Million CAGR 6.3 % No. Of Pages in Report 360 Segments Covered Type, Trailer Size, And End-User Drivers Increase In Demand for Advanced Temperature Control and Monitoring System In Trucks Growth Of the Processed Food Sector and Focus on Reducing Food Waste Opportunities Development Of Eco-Friendly Refrigerants Restraints Environmental Effects of Refrigerants Used Russia-Ukraine War Impact Analysis The conflict has implications for the agricultural sector, as both Russia and Ukraine are major exporters of wheat and other commodities. The disruption in agricultural production and supply chains can lead to fluctuations in food prices on the global market, impacting both consumers and businesses. The conflict also raises concerns about the potential for cyberattacks and disruptions to critical infrastructure. Businesses may need to reassess their cybersecurity measures and investment strategies to mitigate potential risks associated with geopolitical tensions. The split segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period Based on type, the split segment held the highest market share in 2022 and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period 2023 to 2032. Due to the split-type configuration, with separate units for the refrigeration and engine components, the segment offers flexibility and ease of installation, making it a preferred choice for many truck operators. However, the roof mount segment is projected for highest CAGR of 7.1% from 2023 to 2032, due to roof mount units, being installed on the roof of the truck or trailer, optimizing the use of available space within the vehicle, allowing for greater cargo capacity and flexibility. The below 20ft segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period Based on trailer size, the below 20ft segment held the highest market share in 2022 and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period 2023 to 2032. Due to the increasing demand for last-mile delivery services, particularly in urban areas, this segment is fueling the need for compact and maneuverable refrigerated trailers that can efficiently navigate through congested spaces. However, the 20-40ft segment is projected for highest CAGR of 7.2% from 2023 to 2032, due the continuous technological advancements in truck refrigeration units, including innovations such as smart monitoring systems and energy-efficient technologies, contributing to the appeal of the 20-40ft trailer size segment. Interested to Procure the Research Report? Inquire Before Buying - https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/purchase-enquiry/5617 The food segment to maintain its lead position during the forecast period Based on end-users, the food segment accounted for the largest share in 2022 and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period. Due to the increasing globalization of the food supply chain, there is a growing need for advanced truck refrigeration units that can maintain precise temperature control during transit. However, the pharmaceutical segment is projected to have the highest CAGR of 7.1% from 2023 to 2032, due to increasing global demand for pharmaceuticals, including vaccines, biologics, and temperature-sensitive medications, necessitating a reliable and precise cold chain logistics system. Truck refrigeration units, equipped with advanced temperature monitoring and control features, have become indispensable for pharmaceutical companies striving to meet these regulatory standards. Asia-Pacific to maintain its dominance by 2032 Based on region, Asia-Pacific held the highest market share in terms of revenue in 2022 and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period, owing to the expanding cold chain logistics sector, propelled by the increasing demand for temperature-sensitive goods, such as fresh produce, pharmaceuticals, and processed foods, which plays a pivotal role. However, the Europe region is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 7.2% from 2023 to 2032. Due to the region's strategic location and the increasing consumer preference for online shopping and the transportation of temperature-sensitive goods, there is a heightened requirement for sophisticated refrigeration units that ensure the safe and compliant delivery of products which plays a pivotal role in the growth of the truck refrigeration unit industry in the region. Key Highlights of the Truck Refrigeration Unit Market Report: In-depth study spanning 14 countries with regional and segment analysis, projecting values ($million) from 2023 to 2032. Integration of high-quality data, expert opinions, and critical independent perspectives for a comprehensive market understanding. Research methodology designed to offer a balanced view of global markets, empowering stakeholders to make informed decisions for ambitious growth goals. Extensive review of 3,700+ product literature, annual reports, industry statements, and materials from major industry participants for enhanced insights. Procure Complete Research Report (PDF with Qualitative and Quotative Data, Insights, Statistics, Tables, Charts, Figures) - https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/truck-refrigeration-unit-market/purchase-options Leading Market Players: - Advanced Temperature Control Carrier Daikin Denso Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Klinge Corporation Subros Thermo King Utility Trailer Manufacturing Company Webasto Group The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players in the global truck refrigeration unit market. These players have adopted different strategies such as new product launches, collaborations, expansion, joint ventures, agreements, and others to increase their market share and maintain dominant shares in different regions. The report is valuable in highlighting business performance, operating segments, product portfolio, and strategic moves of market players to showcase the competitive scenario. Similar Reports We Have on Automotive Industry: Automotive HVAC System Market Research Report 2023-2032 Heavy Commercial Vehicle HVAC Market Research Report 2023-2032 Bus HVAC Market Research Report 2023-2032 Asia-Pacific Trucks and Trailer HVAC Market Research Report 2023-2032 Asia-Pacific Bus HVAC Market Research Report 2023-2032 About Us Allied Market Research (AMR) is a full-service market research and business-consulting wing of Allied Analytics LLP based in Portland, Oregon. Allied Market Research provides global enterprises as well as medium and small businesses with unmatched quality of "Market Research Reports" and "Business Intelligence Solutions." AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domain. We are in professional corporate relations with various companies and this helps us in digging out market data that helps us generate accurate research data tables and confirms utmost accuracy in our market forecasting. Allied Market Research CEO Pawan Kumar is instrumental in inspiring and encouraging everyone associated with the company to maintain high quality of data and help clients in every way possible to achieve success. Each and every data presented in the reports published by us is extracted through primary interviews with top officials from leading companies of domain concerned. Our secondary data procurement methodology includes deep online and offline research and discussion with knowledgeable professionals and analysts in the industry. Contact: David Correa 1209 Orange Street, Corporation Trust Center, Wilmington, New Castle, Delaware 19801 USA. USA/Canada (Toll Free): +1-800-792-5285 UK: +44-845-528-1300 Hong Kong: +852-301-84916 India (Pune): +91-20-66346060 Fax: +1-800-792-5285 help@alliedmarketresearch.com Web: www.alliedmarketresearch.com AMR Resource Center: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/resource-center Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/636519/Allied_Market_Research_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/truck-refrigeration-unit-market-to-reach-22-997-7-million-globally-by-2032-at-6-3-cagr-allied-market-research-302058462.html Increase in demand for homes, increase in investments in home renovation and improvements, and advantageous features of steel roofing drive the growth of the global steel roofing market. PORTLAND, Ore., Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Steel Roofing Market by Fastening Type (Exposed Fastened and Concealed Fastened), Distribution Channel (Online and Offline), and End User (Residential and Non-Residential): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032". According to the report, the global steel roofing industry generated $10.7 billion in 2020 and is anticipated to generate $17.5 billion by 2032, witnessing a CAGR of 4.2% from 2023 to 2032. Avail the Sample PDF @ https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/A125190 Prime determinants of growth Increase in demand for homes, rise in investments in home renovation and improvements, and advantageous features of steel roofing drive the growth of the global steel roofing market. However, the fluctuating cost of raw materials restricts the market growth. Moreover, a rise in government initiatives to make affordable housing in developing economies is expected to present new opportunities in the coming years. Report coverage & details: Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2023-2032 Historical Period 2020-2021 Base Year 2022 Market Size in 2020 $10.7 billion Market Size in 2032 $17.5 billion CAGR 4.2 % No. of Pages in Report 204 Segments covered Fastening Type, Distribution Channel, End User, and Region. Drivers Increase in demand for homes Increase in investments in home renovation and improvements Advantageous features of steel roofing Opportunities Government-led construction of affordable housing Restraints Fluctuating cost of raw materials The exposed fastened segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period Based on fastening type, the exposed fastened segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for more than half of the global steel roofing market revenue, and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period. In exposed fastened steel roofs, the fasteners are visible on the surface of the roof. Exposed fastened steel roofs are also well known due to their rugged durability and straightforward installation process. Exposed fastened metal roofs are affordable and lightweight. However, the concealed fastened segment is projected to manifest the highest CAGR of 4.6% from 2023 to 2032. Concealed fastened steel roofs have minimally visible fasteners, making them more attractive than exposed fastened roofs. Moreover, the probability of roof leakage is less than exposed fastened roof. Buy This Research Report(212 Pages PDF with Insights, Charts, Tables, Figures) @ https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/checkout-final/b0f65e7116adc70701f32194555c8a7d The offline segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period Based on distribution channel, the offline segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for nearly three-fifths of the global steel roofing market, and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period. Offline purchase has many advantages; for example, the lead time is essentially zero for small-scale projects as the roofs can be procured instantly. Moreover, the quality of the roof can be assessed before buying. However, the online segment is projected to manifest the highest CAGR of 4.6% from 2023 to 2032, owing to ease of purchase. Moreover, there is a wide variety of options available to choose from. The non-residential segment to maintain its lead position during the forecast period Based on end user, the non-residential segment accounted for the largest share in 2022, contributing to more than two-thirds of the global steel roofing market revenue, and is projected to maintain its lead position during the forecast period. The non-residential segment includes the installation of steel roofing on commercial, agricultural, and industrial buildings. The non-residential segment dominated the market owing to more installation of steel roofing in commercial establishments than in residential buildings. Steel roofs are strong, have high structural strength, and can sustain weathering activities for a longer duration. However, the residential segment is expected to witness the largest CAGR of 4.6% from 2023 to 2032. In recent times, the popularity of steel roofing has increased substantially in residential buildings due to its good appearance and better insulation capabilities. Asia-Pacific to maintain its dominance by 2032 Based on region, Asia-Pacific held the highest market share in terms of revenue in 2022, accounting for more than half of the steel roofing market revenue, and is expected to dominate the market during the forecast period. The same region is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 4.5% from 2023 to 2032. The Asia-Pacific region presents many growth opportunities to the major players in the steel roofing market, owing to rapid urbanization, and population growth in the countries such as India, South Korea, Japan, and China. For instance, China's urban population is expected to rise to 72% in 2030 from just 64% in 2021. In India, the industrial sector is anticipated to witness a rapid surge owing to increase in urbanization, rise in economy, digitalization, growth in the IT sector, and easy foreign direct investment norms. Inquire Before Buying @ https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/purchase-enquiry/A125190 Leading Market Players: - Cornerstone Building Brands Inc. (MBCI) Ideal Roofing Lifetite Metal Product LLC Metal Sales Manufacturing Corporation Linyi Jinhu Color Coating Aluminum Industry Co., Ltd. Central States Mfg ATAS International, Inc. Tata BlueScope Steel Bansal Roofing Products Stellar Buildtech. The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players in the global steel roofing market. These players have adopted different strategies such as new product launches, collaborations, expansion, joint ventures, agreements, and others to increase their market share and maintain dominant shares in different regions. The report is valuable in highlighting business performance, operating segments, product portfolio, and strategic moves of market players to showcase the competitive scenario. Trending Reports in Roofing Industry (Book Now with 15% Discount): Global roof cladding market growing at a CAGR of 4.6% to 2031. Global roofing market registering a CAGR of 4.3% to 2030. Global roofing tiles market registering a CAGR of 5.2% to 2027. North America roofing market registering a CAGR of 4.9% to 2031. Roof Bolters Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032 Roofing Underlay Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032 Liquid Applied Roofing Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021-2030 TPO Roofing Membrane Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032 About us: Allied Market Research (AMR) is a full-service market research and business-consulting wing of Allied Analytics LLP based in Wilmington, Delaware. Allied Market Research provides global enterprises as well as medium and small businesses with unmatched quality of "Market Research Reports" and "Business Intelligence Solutions." AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domain. We are in professional corporate relations with various companies, and this helps us in digging out market data that helps us generate accurate research data tables and confirms utmost accuracy in our market forecasting. Allied Market Research CEO Pawan Kumar is instrumental in inspiring and encouraging everyone associated with the company to maintain high quality of data and help clients in every way possible to achieve success. Each and every data presented in the reports published by us is extracted through primary interviews with top officials from leading companies of domain concerned. Our secondary data procurement methodology includes deep online and offline research and discussion with knowledgeable professionals and analysts in the industry. Contact us: United States 1209 Orange Street, Corporation Trust Center, Wilmington, New Castle, Delaware 19801 USA. Int'l: +1-503-894-6022 Toll Free: +1-800-792-5285 Fax: +1-800-792-5285 help@alliedmarketresearch.com Follow Us on | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/636519/Allied_Market_Research_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/steel-roofing-market-to-reach-17-5-billion-globally-by-2032-at-4-2-cagr-allied-market-research-302058464.html L'Oreal Groupe and Prada S.p.A announced today the signature of a worldwide long-term license agreement for the creation, development, and distribution of the luxury beauty products for the Miu Miu brand. Following the successful collaboration with Prada brand, Miu Miu is now joining the L'Oreal Luxe division for a new beauty chapter. Miu Miu was born in 1993 from the independent and unconventional spirit of Miuccia Prada. Since then, this unique luxury brand has been the incarnation of experimental creativity in fashion. With a light but always sophisticated touch, Miu Miu leads fashion, representing the courage to take risks, a razor-sharp instinct to respond to shifts in contemporary fashion and culture. The brand is an infinite source of inspiration for beauty and will resonate with an emancipated, sophisticated and conscious audience. This partnership marks the sign of a new era of interpretation of the beauty facet of the brand. The first fragrances under L'Oreal are expected to be launched in 2025. The agreement will be effective after customary regulatory approvals, if any. Cyril Chapuy, President of L'Oreal Luxe comments: "Over the past years, we have successfully established a very strong partnership with Prada teams. We are now thrilled to welcome Miu Miu and unleash together its outstanding potential in beauty. With its unique positioning, fueled by limitless creativity and experimentation, Miu Miu will perfectly complement L'Oreal Luxe's portfolio of iconic brands and reinforce our worldwide leadership in Fragrances." Benedetta Petruzzo, Miu Miu CEO comments: "We are excited to announce this partnership with a distinctive and leading beauty player such as L'Oreal. This new chapter will sustain the brand's growth and help to further untap Miu Miu's full potential in the category." About L'Oreal For 115 years, L'Oreal, the world's leading beauty player, has devoted itself to one thing only: fulfilling the beauty aspirations of consumers around the world. Our purpose, to create the beauty that moves the world, defines our approach to beauty as essential, inclusive, ethical, generous and committed to social and environmental sustainability. With our broad portfolio of 37 international brands and ambitious sustainability commitments in our L'Oreal for the Future programme, we offer each and every person around the world the best in terms of quality, efficacy, safety, sincerity and responsibility, while celebrating beauty in its infinite plurality. With more than 90,000 committed employees, a balanced geographical footprint and sales across all distribution networks (e-commerce, mass market, department stores, pharmacies, perfumeries, hair salons, branded and travel retail), in 2023 theGroup generated sales amounting to 41.18 billion euros. With 20 research centers across 11 countries around the world and a dedicated Research and Innovation team of over 4,000 scientists and 6,400 Digital talents, L'Oreal is focused on inventing the future of beauty and becoming a Beauty Tech powerhouse. More information on https://www.loreal.com/en/mediaroom About Prada Group Pioneer of a dialogue with contemporary society across diverse cultural spheres and an influential leader in luxury fashion, Prada Group founds its identity on essential values such creative independence, transformation, and sustainable development, offering its brands a shared vision to interpret and express their spirit. The Group owns some of the world's most prestigious luxury brands, Prada, Miu Miu, Church's, Car Shoe, the historic Pasticceria Marchesi and Luna Rossa, and works constantly to enhance their value by increasing their visibility and appeal. The Group designs, manufactures and distributes ready-to-wear collections, leather goods and footwear in more than 70 countries through a network of 603 stores (at June 30, 2023) as well as e-commerce channels, selected e-tailers and department stores around the world. The Group, which also operates in the eyewear and beauty sector through licensing agreements, has 24 owned factories and 14,085 employees. For more information, please visit www.pradagroup.com "This press release does not constitute an offer of sale or solicitation of an offer to purchase L'Oreal shares. If you wish to obtain more comprehensive information about L'Oreal, please refer to the public documents registered in France with the Autorite des Marches Financiers, also available in English on our website www.loreal-finance.com. This press release may contain forecast information. While the Company believes that these statements are based on reasonable assumptions as of the date of publication of this press release, they are by nature subject to risks and uncertainties which may lead to a discrepancy between the actual figures and those indicated or suggested in these statements." L'OREAL CONTACTS Switchboard +33 (0) 1 47 56 70 00 Individual shareholders and market authorities Pascale Guerin +33 (0)1 49 64 18 89 pascale.guerin@loreal.com Investor relations Eva Quiroga +33 (0)7 88 14 22 65 eva.quiroga@loreal.com Journalists Brune Diricq +33 (0)6 63 85 29 87 brune.diricq@loreal.com Christine BURKE +33 (0)6 75 54 38 15 Christine.burke@loreal.com For more information, please contact your bank, broker or financial institution (I.S.I.N. code: FR0000120321), and consult your usual newspapers, the website for shareholders and investors, www.loreal-finance.com or the L'Oreal Finance app; alternatively, call +33 (0)1 40 14 80 50. This press release has been secured and authenticated with blockchain technology. You can verify its authenticity on the website www.wiztrust.com BRUSSELS/FRANKFURT/PARIS (dpa-AFX) - French stocks traded lower on Friday, with heighted geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, Fed rate uncertainty and mixed earnings results weighing on investor sentiment. The benchmark CAC 40 was down 19 points, or 0.3 percent, at 7,646 after climbing 0.7 percent on Thursday. Orange dropped half a percent. The telecoms firm reported that its loss before taxation for fiscal year 2023 was 2.2 million euros compared to profit of 81.6 million euros in the prior year. Hermes International soared 5 percent. The luxury design house announced plans to raise prices after posting solid Q4 results. L'Oreal slumped 6 percent after reporting lower-than-expected fourth-quarter sales. Video game Ubisoft jumped 15 percent after beating its sales targets in Q3. Copyright(c) 2024 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. The "Howitzer Systems Market and Technology Forecast to 2032" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The global Howitzer systems market is projected to grow with a 10.1% CAGR throughout the forecasted period, to reach a volume of US$72.1 billion This big increase is partially explained by the war in Ukraine which has mainly impacted two of the largest markets, namely the North American and European. Europe is expected to account for 38.8% of the total market in the 2024-2032 period, with a volume of US$28.01 billion, marking a 9.3% CAGR. The war in Ukraine has highlighted some of the key characteristics of the modern battlefield against a peer enemy. Long-range fires have always been in the plans of all armies, but there is an inherent conception that these would be better served with missile systems, which among other characteristics provide accuracy. While this is true the war in Ukraine has also highlighted the importance of volume of fire, which cannot be adequately served by missile systems. The importance of volume in fires has remained at the centrepiece of Russian (and Chinese) tactical planning. These ground forces can deploy thousands of howitzers to dominate the battlefield and open the way for troops to seize their targets. Although that issue could be tackled by the acquisition of a proportionally if not equally large number of howitzers from the Western countries and their allies, the costs are prohibiting. Joint procurement from security or political organizations' member-states (e.g. the EU and NATO) could provide the organisational, legal, and financial framework to form economies of scale and reduce the impact of independent procurement and future support. Nevertheless, the market is not only determined by pricing but political factors too. As in every major platform procurement political support is important to successfully close an agreement. Howitzer systems do not escape from that realm. What is currently important also is the ability of industries to manufacture howitzer systems. The war in Ukraine has overstretched the industrial capacity. Despite the collective actions on behalf of the EU countries and the US, it is a challenging task that will require every production facility available to join the effort. Looking into that from a different angle, it can be said that opportunities are not only found in sales of the systems but also the form of M&A throughout the supply chain, with possible further consolidation opportunities being ahead. Covered in this Study Overview : Snapshot of the Howitzer Systems technology in the military market during 2024-2032, including highlights of the demand drivers, trends, and challenges. It also provides a snapshot of the spending with respect to regions as well as segments and sheds light on the emergence of new technologies. : Snapshot of the Howitzer Systems technology in the military market during 2024-2032, including highlights of the demand drivers, trends, and challenges. It also provides a snapshot of the spending with respect to regions as well as segments and sheds light on the emergence of new technologies. Market Dynamics : Insights into the technological developments in the Howitzer Systems market and a detailed analysis of the changing preferences of governments around the world. It also analyses changing industry structure trends and the challenges faced by the industry participants. : Insights into the technological developments in the Howitzer Systems market and a detailed analysis of the changing preferences of governments around the world. It also analyses changing industry structure trends and the challenges faced by the industry participants. Segment Analysis : Insights into the various systems market from a segmental perspective and a detailed analysis of factors influencing the market for each segment. : Insights into the various systems market from a segmental perspective and a detailed analysis of factors influencing the market for each segment. Regional Review : Insights into modernization patterns and budgetary allocation for top countries within a region. : Insights into modernization patterns and budgetary allocation for top countries within a region. Regional Analysis : Insights into the systems market from a regional perspective and a detailed analysis of factors influencing the market for each region. : Insights into the systems market from a regional perspective and a detailed analysis of factors influencing the market for each region. Impact Analysis : Analysis of how certain events will impact the missiles market. This will give you an indication of which factors are important for the forecast. : Analysis of how certain events will impact the missiles market. This will give you an indication of which factors are important for the forecast. Key Program Analysis : Details of the top programs in each segment expected to be executed during the forecast period. : Details of the top programs in each segment expected to be executed during the forecast period. Competitive landscape Analysis: Analysis of competitive landscape of this industry. It provides an overview of key companies, together with insights such as key alliances, strategic initiatives, and a SWOT analysis. Reasons to Buy Insight into the howitzer systems technologies, their organization in units, and employment on the battlefield. Understanding of the market in terms of demand drivers, industry trends, and the latest technological developments, which shape the market. Comparison of the advantages of howitzer systems based on their mobility (towed, tracked, or wheeled) which will provide the necessary arguments to manufacturers and business developers, when interacting with other stakeholders. In-depth understanding of other factors affecting the market such as defence spending, operational requirements and challenges faced by manufacturers, among several others. Outlining of the disruptions and the technology enablers impacting the market and how these could become an opportunity in this quickly changing domain. Identify opportunities available in the market. Technologies and Developments Technology overview Artillery Operational Concepts Artillery Units' Organization Divisional Artillery (DIVARTY) Fire Direction Centre (FDC) Ballistics Towed vs Wheeled vs Tracked Systems Lessons Learned from Ukraine Technologies and design concepts that will impact the market Advanced materials C4I Networking Guidance Automation Autonomy Signature management Market Overview Introduction Howitzer market volumes distribution over forecast period by Region The war in Ukraine and its impact North America Europe Leading Companies BAE Systems Elbit Systems Excalibur Army Hanwha Defense KNDS KMW KNDS Nexter Konstrukta Defense MKEK PGZ Group HSW RBSL (Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land) Rheinmetall AG Yugoimport Segmentation Region North America Asia Pacific Europe Middle East Africa Latin America Mobility Towed Tracked Wheeled Calibre 105-149 150-200 For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/170a70 About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240209765966/en/ Contacts: ResearchAndMarkets.com Laura Wood, Senior Press Manager press@researchandmarkets.com For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 TOKYO, Feb 9, 2024 - (JCN Newswire) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) has concluded a Nissay Positive Impact Finance (Note1) agreement with Nippon Life Insurance Company (Nippon Life) (contract amount: JPY 6.0 billion yen).MHI Group, in response to the growing need to address the global challenge of climate change, in 2020, identified five material issues, including "Provide energy solutions to enable a carbon neutral world," as priority measures to contribute to solving societal issues and ensuring continued growth over the medium to long term.In addition, in the 2021 Medium-Term Business Plan announced that same year, MHI Group specified as growth areas "Energy Transition," aiming to achieve decarbonization in the energy supply side, and "Smart Infrastructure," supporting decarbonization, energy efficiency, and labor savings in the energy demand side. By decarbonizing both the generation and use of energy, MHI Group is contributing to achieving Net Zero carbon emissions by 2040 and realizing a carbon neutral world.In concluding this agreement, the following Core Impacts were selected from the MHI Group's materiality issues and other topics as activities that contribute to achieving the UN SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals). The qualitative and quantitative evaluation is conducted by Nippon Life, with a second opinion provided by Rating and Investment Information Inc. (R&I) (Note2) regarding compliance with the Principles for Positive Impact Finance, and the rationality of the evaluation indicators used.The MHI Group aims to contribute to the sustainable enhancement of corporate value and the realization of a sustainable society by leveraging the Group's comprehensive capabilities and strengths to enrich people's lives.Positive Impact FinancePositive Impact Finance (PIF) is a loan intended to provide continuous support for corporate activities while comprehensively analyzing and evaluating the impacts (both positive and negative) that those activities have on the environment, society, and the economy, based on the Principles for Positive Impact Finance and implementation guidelines formulated by the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI). The key feature of PIF is the use as an evaluation indicator the degree of contribution to achieving the SDGs through corporate activities, products, and services, and monitoring based on disclosed information.United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI)The UNEP FI is a broad-based, close partnership between the UNEP and more than 200 global financial institutions. Established in 1992, UNEP FI coordinates with financial institutions, policy agencies, and regulatory bodies to facilitate a shift to financial systems that integrate economic development with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations.United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)The UNEP is an auxiliary agency of the UN established in 1972 to implement the Human Environment Declaration and the International Environmental Action Programme.Principles for Positive Impact FinanceThe Principles for Positive Impact Finance, formulated by the UNEP FI in January 2017, is a financial framework for achieving SDGs. Companies disclose their contributions to achieving SDGs as KPIs. Banks then assess the positive impact of those contributions and provide funding to enhance the beneficial impacts of that company, and to encourage reduction of negative impacts. Banks provide funds as responsible financial institutions, monitoring the KPIs to confirm that the impacts are ongoing.(1) Nissay Positive Impact Finance is ESG-themed investment provided by Nippon Life. By identifying the impacts that a company's overall business activities have in the areas of environment, society, and economy, and setting KPIs, the financing aims to increase positive impacts while reducing negative ones.Major ESG Investment and Finance Examples https://www.nissay.co.jp/global/sustainability/esg/example.html(2) For more information about Rating and Investment Information, Inc. (R&I), visit the following website:https://www.r-i.co.jp/en/index.html(3) "Health and Productivity Management" is a registered trademark of Nonprofit Organization Kenkokeiei.About MHI GroupMitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world's leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com.For more information, visit www.mhi.com/news/24020902.html.Source: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire . All rights reserved. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2024) - Intrepid Metals Corp. (TSXV: INTR) (OTCQB: IMTCF) ("Intrepid" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the drill rig for the upcoming initial 5,000 meter ("m") program has arrived on site at the Corral Copper Property ("Corral" or the "Property") in Cochise County, Arizona. "We are excited for the next stage of our growth and to have the drill mobilized to site," said Ken Brophy, CEO of Intrepid. "After 18 months of consolidating the Property via several different property transactions, we now have 9600 acres and a previously established 3 kilometer trend of impressive copper and gold mineralization within patented mining claims and additional surface rights. After compiling all the historical drill data and most recently completing our $6.6 million financing, we are well positioned to execute on our initial drill program and excited to have the opportunity to de-risk our Corral Copper Property and build substantial value for Intrepid and its shareholders." The 5,000m (23 hole) diamond drill program is expected to start at the Holliday Zone (previously Courtland North), where 7 holes (roughly 1,200m) are planned. The drill program will then continue on to the Earp Zone (previously Courtland South), where 5 holes (roughly 900m) are planned and finally to the Ringo Zone (previously Man), where the final 11 holes (roughly 2,900m) are planned. Please refer to the map below for drill hole locations and new Property Zone names. Corral Copper Project 2024 Proposed Drilling To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6187/197329_4b5998975408db4c_001full.jpg The leapfrog model image above is derived from drill results that are historical in nature and based on assay information from independent laboratory Skyline Assayers & Laboratories. Intrepid has not yet undertaken any independent investigation of the sampling nor has it independently analyzed the results of the historical exploration work in order to verify the results. Intrepid considers these historical drill results relevant, as the Company will use this data as a guide to plan future exploration programs. Intrepid also considers the data to be reliable for these purposes; however, the Company's future exploration work will include verification of the data through drilling. Dr. Chris Osterman, P. Geo, a consultant of the Company, is a Qualified Person ("QP") as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Dr. Osterman has reviewed and is responsible for the technical information disclosed in this news release, including the statements with respect to data verification. About Corral Copper The Corral Copper Property is a district scale advanced exploration and development opportunity in Cochise County, Arizona. Corral Copper is located 15 miles east of the famous mining town of Tombstone and 22 miles north of the historical Bisbee mining camp which has produced more than 8 billion pounds of copper. Production from the Bisbee mining camp, or within the district as disclosed in the next paragraph, is not necessarily indicative of the mineral potential at Corral. The district has a mining history dating back to the late 1800s, with several small mines extracting copper from the area in the early 1900s, producing several thousand tons. Between 1950 and 2008, various companies explored parts of the district, but the effort was uncoordinated, non-synergistic and focused on discrete land positions and commodities due to the fragmented ownership. Intrepid has been able to secure data from various sources which provides a solid foundation in creating geological interpretations and identifying new target areas. Intrepid is confident that by combining modern exploration techniques with historical data and with a clear focus on responsible development, the Corral Copper Property can quickly become an advanced exploration stage project and move towards development studies. About Intrepid Metals Corp. Intrepid Metals Corp. is a Canadian company focused on exploring for high-grade essential metals such as copper, silver, lead, and zinc mineral projects in proximity to established mining jurisdictions in southeastern Arizona, USA. The Company has acquired or has agreements to acquire several drill ready projects, including the Corral Copper Project (a district scale advanced exploration and development opportunity with significant shallow historical drill results), the Tombstone South Project (within the historical Tombstone mining district with geological similarities to the Taylor Deposit, which was purchased for $1.3B in 2018, though mineralization at the Taylor Deposit is not necessarily indicative of the mineral potential at the Tombstone South Project) both of which are located in Cochise County, Arizona and the Mesa Well Project (located in the Laramide Copper Porphyry Belt in Arizona). Intrepid has assembled an exceptional team with considerable experience with exploration, developing, and permitting new projects within North America. Intrepid is traded on the TSX Venture Exchange (TSXV) under the symbol "INTR" and on the OTCQB Venture Market under the symbol "IMTCF". For more information, visit www.intrepidmetals.com. INTREPID METALS CORP. On behalf of the Company "Ken Brophy" CEO For further information regarding this news release, please contact: Ken Brophy, CEO 604-681-8030 info@intrepidmetals.com Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information Certain statements contained in this release constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Such forward-looking statements relate to: (i) future exploration plans and drilling plans including the estimated number of drill holes, meterage and expected commencement date; (ii) the confirmation of historical results; (iii) the Company's confidence in the drill program (iv) details about potential mineralization; (v) the exploration potential of the Corral Copper Property; (vi) building substantial value for Intrepid and its shareholders; and (vii) potential future production. In certain cases, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might", "occur" or "be achieved" suggesting future outcomes, or other expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions, intentions or statements about future events or performance. Forward-looking information contained in this news release is based on certain factors and assumptions regarding, among other things, the Company can raise additional financing to continue operations; the results of exploration activities, expectations and anticipated impact of the COVID-19 outbreak, commodity prices, the timing and amount of future exploration and development expenditures, the availability of labour and materials, receipt of and compliance with necessary regulatory approvals and permits, the estimation of insurance coverage, and assumptions with respect to currency fluctuations, environmental risks, title disputes or claims, and other similar matters. While the Company considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available to it, they may prove to be incorrect. 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 future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors include risks inherent in the exploration and development of mineral deposits, including risks relating to the ability to access infrastructure, risks relating to the failure to access financing, risks relating to changes in commodity prices, risks related to current global financial conditions, risks related to current global financial conditions and the impact of COVID-19 on the Company's business, reliance on key personnel, operational risks inherent in the conduct of exploration and development activities, including the risk of accidents, labour disputes and cave-ins, regulatory risks including the risk that permits may not be obtained in a timely fashion or at all, financing, capitalization and liquidity risks, risks related to disputes concerning property titles and interests, environmental risks and the additional risks identified in the "Risk Factors" section of the Company's reports and filings with applicable Canadian securities regulators. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The forward-looking information is made as of the date of this news release. Except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) has reviewed or accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/197329 SOURCE: Intrepid Metals Corp. Press Release February 9, 2024 In welcoming Chinese New Year NANCY'S WISH TO CONGRESS: 'STOP PARLIAMENTARY BULLYING' ...says level of civil discourse has gotten worse Sen. Nancy Binay's wish for Chinese New Year is for some members of Congress to put a stop to parliamentary bullying. As a fresh start in welcoming the Year of the Dragon, Binay appealed to colleagues in Congress to forgo engaging in the lowest levels of unpleasantries and regressive civility just to diminish and humiliate the Senate. "Sad to say, the behavior of some of our colleagues in Congress has fallen too far below the standard which the public expect from members of the legislature. The bullying, the absurd spats, the unnecessary remarks have brought shame on both houses of congress," Binay said. The senator was reacting to the baseless accusations hurled against Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva by a member of the house leadership. For the past month, the word war between the House of Representatives and the Senate has become the political equivalent of the tabloid talk show, "Face-2-Face". "It's simply too painful to acknowledge, even to ourselves, that politics bring out the worst in us. Di naman konstitusyon ang problema. Kadalasan, mga politiko mismo ang problema," she pointed out. According to Binay, unreasonable, immature and unacceptable behaviors do not stand on the side of accountability and moral responsibility as public officials. "Aren't we all expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity and trust? We need to take a good long hard look at ourselves if we are indeed spotless or walking the halls of congress with our dirty feet. It is downright shameful to see members of Congress denigrating themselves by allowing juvenile instincts to overtake their more rational judgments, and abusing free speech for slander," the lady senator pointed out. Binay added that the parliamentary bullying has become toxic and continues to betray the trust of the people. "The people don't want serial bullies in government. Ang gusto ng tao yung matino at maayos na paggogobyerno. We owe them that," the senator noted. BRING POSITIVE CHANGE Binay said that the level of civil discourse has gotten worse, and instead of shamelessly throwing mud at each other, legislators should be the first ones to do some house cleaning. "As representatives of the people, if we are really serious about change, why can't we all work for a positive work culture in our respective institutions. Instead of pushing for changing the charter as if it were the only medicine to cure an ailing country, why can't we put ourselves first in the People's Agenda--denounce the injustices in the system, help fight corruption in all levels of government, help stop the culture of patronage politics, and as legislators, change for the better," she noted. With all the bickering and political noise, Binay said there should be some serious intent or effort to make a genuine change in the Philippine parliamentary culture. "I appeal to everyone to stand down, and go back to work. Change should start in our institutions, and I do hope we all can get the people's respect back," she said. "Before calling for any change, let's become better public servants first. I think that's the most patriotic thing we can do for our country and people," Binay said. The Mongolia government announced discussions are being held with SpaceX to launch the nations first national telecommunications satellite, with ambitions to becoming a spacefaring nation. Reuters reported, the Mongolian government is aiming to develop its domestic space economy and the satellite is being built by France-based Thales Alenia Space. The satellite will serve Mongolia in a variety of ways such as: emergency response and disaster management, boost broadband internet availability, support scientific research education among many other purposes, said the government. Mongolia's Minister of Digital Development and Communications Uchral Nyam-Osor said: Launching our own satellite marks a defining moment for Mongolia's journey towards becoming a spacefaring nation." He added: "It signifies Mongolia's commitment to fostering a thriving domestic space industry and its pursuit of a digital future driven by cutting-edge innovation." Mongolia gave the Elon Musk company permission to provide internet access through its constellation of low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites Starlink last year, with Starlink services to come online later this month. The Starlink constellation has over 3,5000 LEO satellites providing broadband to remote areas. "SpaceX's investment in Mongolia demonstrates the confidence they have in the digital transformation and sustainable development programmes at the centre of Mongolia's New Recovery Policy and Vision2050," Nyam-Osor said. Toyota City, Japan, Feb 9, 2024 - (JCN Newswire) - Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) has decided today to resume production and shipments of the Pixis Epoch and Pixis Truck / Van, which is outsourced to Daihatsu Motor Co. (Daihatsu).We sincerely apologize again to our customers, suppliers, dealers, and other concerned parties for any concern or inconvenience the suspension may have caused.On January 30, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) confirmed that the above three models are in compliance with the standards of the Road Transport Vehicle Act, following the Probox, which has already been released from shipment suspension. In addition, we have been receiving both strong criticism and warm comments, along with requests for our products from customers and other concerned parties. In light of these circumstances, we have decided to resume production from February 26.Today, Daihatsu has reported to the MLIT the measures it has taken to prevent a recurrence of the irregularities. Toyota will provide full support to ensure that the various measures are implemented. We will resume production of the models to be released for shipment by MLIT as soon as they are ready, while carefully communicating with our suppliers and other related parties.We will make every effort to deliver cars to our customers as quickly as possible while emphasizing, once again, that safety and quality are our top priorities.Source: Toyota Motor CorporationCopyright 2024 JCN Newswire . All rights reserved. Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2024) - Prismo Metals Inc. (CSE: PRIZ) (OTCQB: PMOMF) ("Prismo" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the heliborne ZTEM geophysical survey undertaken at its Hot Breccia copper project in Arizona has identified a priority drill target. Hot Breccia is located in the heart of the prolific Arizona Copper Belt between Tucson and Phoenix (Fig. 1). The ZTEM survey identified a large conductive body at depth below the surface exposure of a large dike swarm that hosts the namesake breccias. Anomalous copper and gold assays are locally present at the surface in this area (see press release of July 11, 2023), and high-grade copper and zinc assays are present above this anomaly in historic drill holes completed by major copper producers in the 1970's and early 1980's (see press release of January 29, 2023). While all of the historic drill holes intersected hydrothermal alteration within the volcanic rocks that overlie the typically better mineralized Paleozoic carbonate rocks with increasing alteration intensity downwards, no historic drilling targeted this newly identified conductive zone identified in Prismo's ZTEM survey. The carbonate host units above the anomaly have several copper intercepts reported to exceed 1% copper and elevated zinc levels. Dr. Craig Gibson, President and CEO commented: "The ZTEM survey conducted in 2023 has identified a priority conductive anomaly at depth that appears to be related to a dike swarm with associated polymictic breccia. We are looking forward to drilling this target which has characteristics that are similar to the mineralized copper and base metal deposits at the adjacent Christmas mine, an important historic producer and location of an unmined porphyry copper deposit owned by Freeport. The project is also located along the trend of several very large porphyry copper deposits, including Resolution, 40 km to the north, and San Manuel / Kalamazoo 35 km to the south." Preparation of a permit to allow drilling at Hot Breccia began in 2023 with a required cultural survey. It is anticipated that the permit will be in-hand in Q1 2024. Sampling at the project has shown the presence of copper and gold mineralization associated with polymictic breccia that has brought fragments of sedimentary rocks and mineralization to the surface from depths believed to be 400-800 meters below the surface, so drilling of deep holes, possibly including a twin of an historic hole, is planned. Gold mineralization ranging from anomalous values of 0.1-0.3 g/t to 28 g/t with local copper has also been encountered at the surface associated with dikes (see News Release of July 11, 2023). Drilling with shallow angled holes is also envisioned. Figure 1. Location of the Hot Breccia copper project To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7434/197367_7a46312214073b66_0001full.jpg Figure 2. View of the subsurface looking northeasterly showing the conductive body from the ZTEM survey and cross sections of the Christmas deposit and the Hot Breccia area. Historic drill holes are shown with copper assays as disks within the red ellipse; the magenta color indicates > 1% Copper. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7434/197367_7a46312214073b66_0002full.jpg Figure 3. Plan view of the surface geology showing the hot breccia land boundary in black and the cross sections from Fig. 2. The surface projection of the conductive body shown in Fig. 2 is roughly outlined in red. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7434/197367_7a46312214073b66_0003full.jpg Assay results from historic drill holes are unverified as the core has been destroyed, but information has been gathered from memos, photos and drill logs that contain some, but not all, of the assay results and descriptions. Qualified Person Dr. Craig Gibson, PhD., CPG., a Qualified Person as defined by NI-43-01 regulations and president, CEO and a director of the Company, has reviewed and approved the technical disclosures in this news release. About Hot Breccia The Hot Breccia property consists of 1,420 hectares 227 contiguous mining claims located in the world class Arizona Copper Belt. The project lies about four kilometers from the historic Christmas mine which recorded production of about 481.6 million pounds of copper from 20.2 million tons at a grade of 1.2% Copper plus significant gold and silver (Sources: Arizona Geological Society Spring Field Trip Guide in 2014). Prismo has not been able to verify the Christmas production information and it is not necessarily indicative of the mineralization on the Hot Breccia property. Prismo holds the option to earn up to a 75% interest in the project from Infinitum Copper Corp. (TSXV: INFI) (OTCQB: INUMF) ("Infinitum"), subject to a 2% NSR royalty to a private company, Walnut Mines LLC. About Prismo Prismo (CSE: PRIZ) is mining exploration company focused on two precious metal projects in Mexico (Palos Verdes and Los Pavitos) and a copper project in Arizona (Hot Breccia). Please follow @PrismoMetals on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube. Prismo Metals Inc. 1100 - 1111 Melville St., Vancouver, British Columbia V6E 3V6 Contact: Craig Gibson, President & Chief Executive Officer craig.gibson@prismometals.com Jason Frame, Manager of Communications jason.frame@prismometals.com Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements other than statements of historical fact, including without limitation, statements regarding the anticipated content, commencement and exploration program results, the ability to complete future financings, required permitting, exploration programs and drilling, and the anticipated business plans and timing of future activities of the Company, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as: believe, expect, anticipate, intend, estimate, postulate and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. The Company cautions investors that any forward-looking statements by the Company are not guarantees of future results or performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, but not limited to, the state of the financial markets for the Company's equity securities, the state of the commodity markets generally, variations in the nature, the analytical results from surface trenching and sampling program, including diamond drilling programs, the results of IP surveying, the results of soil and till sampling program. the quality and quantity of any mineral deposits that may be located, variations in the market price of any mineral products the Company may produce or plan to produce, the inability of the Company to obtain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required, including CSE acceptance, for its planned activities, the inability of the Company to produce minerals from its properties successfully or profitably, to continue its projected growth, to raise the necessary capital or to be fully able to implement its business strategies, the potential impact of COVID-19 (coronavirus) on the Company's exploration program and on the Company's general business, operations and financial condition, and other risks and uncertainties. All of the Company's Canadian public disclosure filings may be accessed via www.sedar.com and readers are urged to review these materials, including the technical reports filed with respect to the Company's mineral properties. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/197367 SOURCE: Prismo Metals Inc. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2024) - Hillcrest Energy Technologies (CSE: HEAT) (OTCQB: HLRTF) (FSE: 7HI) ("Hillcrest" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that, further to its news release dated January 31, 2024, the Company has closed the first tranche of its non-brokered private placement in the amount of 2,530,000 units of the Company (the "Units") at a price of $0.25 per Unit for gross proceeds of $632,000 (the "First Tranche"). The total placement size, cumulative of all tranches, is anticipated to be a maximum of 8,000,000 Units for maximum gross proceeds of $2,000,000 (the "Private Placement"). The Company intends to close the second tranche of the Private Placement in the near future. Each Unit consists of one common share in the capital of the Company (a "Common Share") and one Common Share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder thereof to acquire one Common Share at an exercise price of $0.30 per Common Share for a period of 36 months from the date of issuance. However, the Warrants will be subject to an accelerated expiry upon 30 business days' notice from the Company in the event the Common Shares trade for ten (10) consecutive trading days any time after four (4) months from the date of issuance at a volume-weighted average price of at least $0.50 on the Canadian Securities Exchange. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Private Placement, including the First Tranche, for technology and product development, commercialization, and general working capital. All securities issued in connection with the Private Placement are subject to a four month and one day hold period in accordance with applicable securities laws. The subscribers in the Private Placement included a director and officer of the Company (the "Insider") who subscribed for an aggregate of 440,000 Units. The issuance of Units to the Insider constitutes a "related party transaction" as defined in Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Securityholders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company is relying on the exemption from valuation requirement and minority approval pursuant to subsection 5.5(a) and 5.7(a) of MI 61-101, respectively, for the insider participation in the Private Placement, as the Units do not represent more than 25% of the Company's market capitalization, as determined in accordance with MI 61-101. The securities of the Company referred to in this news release have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any state securities laws. Accordingly, the securities of the Company may not be offered or sold within the United States unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of any offer to buy any securities of the Company in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. Hillcrest also announces an amendment to the terms of the Equity Facility announced on January 17, 2024. The Company and the third-party investor have mutually agreed to increase the commitment fee to 4.9% of the total capital of the Company committed, payable in cash or Common Shares at a deemed price at the greater of the discounted market price permitted under the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "CSE") and 90% of the 10-day average closing bid price of the common shares on the CSE. In addition, the Company has entered into a six-month marketing agreement with Stockhouse Publishing Ltd which is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Market Limited, an Australian publicly listed entity. Stockhouse Publishing Ltd, through its media content department, The Market Online, will assist and raise greater awareness for the Company, focusing on the Australian market through platforms such as HotCopper.com.au. HotCopper.com.au is the leading stock market forum and home to large communities of active investors and market makers in Australia. Pursuant to the contract with Stockhouse Publishing Ltd, which is located at 1130 - 1055 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC V6E 2E9, will be paid Cdn$50,000 for its services and the Company will choose from a menu of standard and custom advertising and marketing campaigns to reach targeted investor audiences. About Hillcrest Energy Technologies Hillcrest Energy Technologies is a clean technology company developing high value, high performance power conversion technologies and digital control systems for next-generation powertrains and grid-connected renewable energy systems. From concept to commercialization, Hillcrest is investing in the development of energy solutions that will power a more sustainable and electrified future. Hillcrest is publicly traded on the CSE under the symbol "HEAT," on the OTCQB Venture Market as "HLRTF" and the Frankfurt Stock Exchange as "7HI." For more information, please visit: https://hillcrestenergy.tech/. Contact Information Don Currie Chief Executive Officer and Director info@hillcrestenergy.tech O: +1-604-609-0006 Toll-free: 1-855-609-0006 Cautionary Statement Regarding "Forward-Looking" Information Some of the statements contained in this news release are forward-looking statements and information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of words such as "expects," "intends," "is expected," "potential," "suggests" or variations of such words or phrases, or statements that certain actions, events or results "may," "could," "should," "would," "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking information in this news release includes the completion of additional tranches of the Private Placement, as well as anticipated use of proceeds. This forward-looking information is provided as of the date of this news release. The forward-looking information reflects the current expectations and assumptions of management and is subject to a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any anticipated future results, performance or expectations expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. No assurance can be given that these assumptions will prove correct. Forward-looking statements and information are not historical facts and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties beyond the Company's control. Additional risk factors can also be found in the Company's public filings under the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements, except as may be required by law. THIS NEWS RELEASE IS NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/197337 SOURCE: Hillcrest Energy Technologies Ltd. Company to Provide Information on Latest Innovations in Modular Docking Technology MIAMI, FL / ACCESSWIRE / February 9, 2024 / Jet Dock Systems, a world leader in designing and manufacturing modular drive-on boat docks, is pleased to return to the Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show, to be held February 14-18, 2024, at the Miami Beach Convention Center. Jet Dock Florida - Miami Boat Show Show attendees can learn more about Jet Dock's patented floating boat lifts and other advancements in drive-on docking technology, including kayak docks, PWC lifts, and floating walkway platforms. Jet Dock will be at Booth MB 5024 in the Retail Pavilion on the second floor of the convention center. "We are very excited to exhibit at the Miami Boat Show for our 30th straight year!" said Jet Dock Vice President Allan Eva, III. "The marine marketplace is booming, and you will be stunned to see the incredible innovations featured at the world's largest boat show." As the largest boat and yacht show in the world, Discover Boating Miami expects to attract over 100,000 attendees, who will have access to more than 1,000 yachts and boats on display. Besides the convention center, the show will hold events at Herald Plaza, Pride Park, Museum Park Marina, Venetian Marina, and Superyacht Miami at Yacht Haven Grande Miami. Attendees can discover all the latest aquatic innovations in everything from superyachts to kayaks. The original inventor of drive-on docking technology, Jet Dock specializes in floating, modular dry-docking solutions. Its current product lines include docking options for everything from small water toys like PWCs and kayaks to mid-sized boats and all the way up to 50-foot performance boats and beyond. Visit the show and see how Jet Dock Florida is the easiest docking experience you will ever have. For product information and media inquiries, please contact our knowledgeable team of advisors at salesteam@jetdock.com or call 1-800-JETDOCK. Contact Information Byron Jacobs salesteam@jetdock.com 1-800-JETDOCK SOURCE: Jet Dock View the original press release on newswire.com. Leading disposable vape industry brand AIR BAR elevates the vaping experience through groundbreaking PTC technology in new Diamond Box vape device SHENZHEN, CHINA / ACCESSWIRE / February 9, 2024 / AIR BAR, a trailblazer in the nicotine disposable vape industry, unveiled at this year's Total Product Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada, its latest technological marvel: Precision Temperature Control (PTC) technology. This revolutionary advancement is embedded in the highly anticipated Diamond Box, AIR BAR's newest disposable vape, which received high demand at this year's trade show held at the Las Vegas Convention Center. PTC technology sets a new benchmark by intelligently adjusting atomization power in real-time, ensuring a continuous and stable vaporization experience throughout the product's lifespan. AIR BAR Diamond Box with PTC Technology AIR BAR's newest disposable vape Diamond Box with cutting-edge PTC technology. Disposable vape devices currently on the market often suffer from issues such as unstable flavor and easy burning. To tackle these challenges, AIR BAR has pioneered the use of PTC technology. This cutting-edge approach, backed by a patented invention (Patent No.: 2023118519017), monitors and controls the atomization core temperature, providing real-time adjustments for a seamless vaping experience. PTC operates by monitoring the atomization core temperature hundreds of times per second and adjusting the battery's input power in milliseconds. This precision control ensures that the atomization core temperature stays within the optimal range for e-liquid, enhancing flavor and preventing issues like scorching, a process that occurs when a coil overheats or dries out during vaping, causing the coil's cotton wick to burn and leaving an unpleasant taste. PTC spans the entire lifespan of the product, delivering consistent and high-quality vaping. PTC ensures stable vaporization, maintaining the atomization core temperature within the optimal range for a superior flavor and vaping experience. This technology provides continuous and stable vaporization throughout the product's lifespan, preventing the occurrence of a strong flavor followed by a fading taste. PTC intelligently identifies low e-liquid levels and prevents scorching by adjusting or cutting off power output, as well as real-time monitoring which prevents issues like overheating or excessive temperatures, resulting in a safer vaping experience. Diamond Box offers 20,000 puffs, a 3D diamond-patterned body, OLED screen, and USB Type-C rechargeability. With Pre-Heating Coil (PHC) technology, which AIR BAR introduced earlier this year, and PTC technology, this device brings an unparalleled vaping experience. Diamond Box will next be available to experience, before it hits stores later this month, at CHAMPS Trade Shows in Las Vegas at the Las Vegas Convention Center on February 14-17, 2024. AIR BAR looks forward to further educating both industry players and the public on its proprietary PTC technology. About AIR BAR: Established in 2019, AIR BAR is a leading nicotine disposable vape company committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation. Dedicated to research and development and education, AIR BAR consistently delivers cutting-edge products, offering a healthier and safer alternative to smoking. For media inquiries: media@airbar.com Contact Information: Quentin Brunel Director of Operations quentin@airbar.com 310-691-4473 SOURCE: AIR BAR View the original press release on newswire.com. Henrietta Homes will consist of 40 lease-to-purchase homes in the Hough neighborhood CLEVELAND, OH / ACCESSWIRE / February 9, 2024 / KeyBank Community Development Lending and Investment (CDLI) invested $10.2 million of 4% Federal LIHTC Equity and provided a $7.9 million construction loan to finance the development of Henrietta Homes. The development will consist of 40 lease-to-purchase (LTP) affordable single-family homes, to be built on vacant land throughout the Hough neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Henrietta Homes will target family households with incomes between 30% and 60% of area median income ("AMI"). The development will be partially subsidized, of which eight homes will be supported by a 20-year Section 8 project-based vouchers ("PBV") provided through Cuyahoga Metro Housing Authority. Additional soft funding sources include $1.6 million from City of Cleveland Housing Trust Funds, a $450,000 Cuyahoga County HOME loan, and a $1.25 million equity bridge loan through Ohio Housing Finance Agency's Housing Development Loan program. The project is a culmination of community planning efforts and will complement investments to revitalize the Hough neighborhood. The Famicos Foundation is the sponsor for Henrietta Homes. The Famicos Foundation is one of Northeast Ohio's largest nonprofit community development corporations, and its mission is to improve the quality of life in greater Cleveland through neighborhood revitalization, affordable housing, and integrated social services. Henrietta Homes new construction will consist of 36 two story three bedrooms homes with an unfinished basement and detached 1.5 car garage, as well as four three-bedroom one story homes with an attached 2-car garage (no basement level). The project will be built to meet Enterprise Green Communities standards to ensure energy and cost efficiencies for the tenant to maintain. Amenities include a private yard, full appliance package with dishwasher, washer, and dryer hook-ups, and in-unit alarms. The homes will be available to lease during a 15 -year period, and at year 16, residents will have an opportunity to purchase the home at an affordable price. Famicos will prepare tenants to transition into homeownership by providing financial training and homeownership counseling during the 15-year leasing period. The development is close to public transportation and within two miles from the Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals main campuses. Henrietta Homes is also located near grocery stores, numerous restaurants, and schools. Derek Reed and Kory Clark of KeyBank CDLI structured the tax credit equity and debt financing for the transaction. About KeyBank Community Development Lending and Investment KeyBank Community Development Lending and Investment (CDLI) finances projects that stabilize and revitalize communities across all 50 states. As one of the top affordable housing capital providers in the country, KeyBank's platform brings together construction, acquisition, bridge-to-re-syndication, and preservation loans, as well as lines of credit, Agency and HUD permanent mortgage executions, and equity investments for low-income housing projects, especially Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) financing. KeyBank has earned 10 consecutive "Outstanding" ratings on the Community Reinvestment Act exam, from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, making it the first U.S. national bank among the 25 largest to do so since the Act's passage in 1977. About KeyCorp KeyCorp's roots trace back nearly 200 years to Albany, New York. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Key is one of the nation's largest bank-based financial services companies, with assets of approximately $188 billion at December 31, 2023. Key provides deposit, lending, cash management, and investment services to individuals and businesses in 15 states under the name KeyBank National Association through a network of approximately 1,000 branches and approximately 1,300 ATMs. Key also provides a broad range of sophisticated corporate and investment banking products, such as merger and acquisition advice, public and private debt and equity, syndications, and derivatives to middle market companies in selected industries throughout the United States under the KeyBanc Capital Markets trade name. For more information, visit https://www.key.com/. KeyBank is Member FDIC. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from KeyBank on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: KeyBank Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/keybank Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: KeyBank View the original press release on accesswire.com NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / February 9, 2024 / P&G Did you know that science is behind the making of your favorite P&G brand products? Nothing excites our award-winning scientists more than creating superior products that solve the real problems that consumers face everyday. As the maker of brands loved by women and girls around the world - like Always, Olay, Pantene and Venus - we understand the importance of inclusive teams in developing the innovations and products that meaningfully impact all the consumers we see and serve. Women currently make up 34% of the workforce in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), and while women have made career advances in these fields, there is room for growth. We celebrate International Day of Women and Girls in Science on February 11 and honor the contributions of women to P&G's innovation - as well as to the sciences globally - as we aspire to full inclusion of girls and women in science. Inspiring Inclusion throughout Our Herstory For more than 185 years, P&G has served consumers with our innovative branded products to meet their needs. In doing so, we have aspired to create an inclusive culture for generations. In 1890, we opened our first analytical lab in Ivorydale, Ohio, with one of the first women in a technical role - and haven't looked back. P&G hired its first female Ph.D. scientist in 1926, Else Schulze, who would later head her own department and hire 37 women with science degrees. She set the path for a diverse and highly skilled STEM workforce including engineers, scientists and IT experts to provide consumers with products they need and love. The Women Behind P&G's Superior Innovation Today, many women innovators at P&G continue to build on the legacy of trailblazers like Else, working on diverse, inclusive teams who are delighting consumers with products so good that they are loved and trusted by millions of households around the world. Our ability to uniquely see and uniquely serve every consumer - over half of whom are women and girls - is strengthened by a workforce and a culture that respects and reflects all the consumers we serve. Dr. Rolanda Wilkerson, Senior Director, Fellow of P&G Beauty Care, recently shared her career journey and P&G Beauty breakthroughs in OLAY's Super Serum with a group of future innovators from Girl Up. She explained the breakthrough moment when the team uncovered activated niacinamide - a low-pH activated ingredient that unlocks the "supercharged" power of niacinamide. Activated niacinamide provides faster results and longer-lasting benefits for the skin, including boosting surface cell turnover, evening skin tone and tackling visible discoloration. Learn more about OLAY Super Serum and meet more of the "super" women behind OLAY's Super Serum technology. In our haircare business, women innovators are helping revolutionize the way consumers experience healthy hair with the new Pantene Miracle collection. Dr. Jeni Thomas, Global Science Communications Director, P&G Hair, is part of the team behind Pantene's Miracle Rescue Deep Repair Conditioner, which includes the superior innovation of melting Pro-V pearls to help bring damaged hair back to life. Backed by science and infused with skincare-inspired ingredients, this new Pantene hair repair product offers an extraordinary solution for damaged hair, resulting in strong and healthy strands. Learn how Pantene's Miracle collection is bringing luxury hair care to more people. Through the years, our commitment to gender equality, inclusive leadership and innovation has shaped our workplace culture, inspired our people, grown our business and impacted our communities. Inspiring the Innovators of the Future As we celebrate the women in STEM of our past, and those of today, we also look forward to the scientific leaders of the future. Together with our gender equality partners, we are making connections for women of all generations to lead, innovate and create impact. We collaborate with action takers and impact makers like Girl Up to support education opportunities and develop more leaders who not only strengthen P&G, but also the communities in which we live and work. Girl Up is bridging the gender gap in the STEM fields by inspiring girl leaders to use STEM skills to create solutions to issues in their communities for social good. The program includes a STEM Bootcamp and financial grants to implement community projects. Four girls who have a passion for STEM from Girl Up's Cincinnati region recently spent a STEM Immersion Day at P&G headquarters and our Research & Development Center in Mason, Ohio - our largest in the world. They toured labs, heard from archivists and scientists about the career journeys of P&G's women innovators, and learned about exciting technology breakthroughs from several of our phenomenal women scientists working on our Beauty and Home Care brands. From our time with these innovators of tomorrow, it was clear that by creating more opportunities for young leaders today, we can unlock more solutions to help us serve all consumers in a more equal future. Learn about more P&G women scientists, their passion for STEM and how we're supporting women and girls in science. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from P&G on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: P&G Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/pg Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: P&G View the original press release on accesswire.com HOUSTON, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- After undocking from the International Space Station (ISS) on Wednesday, Feb. 7, the Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) crew safely splashed down off the coast of Florida aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft at 8:30 a.m. ET on Feb. 9, 2024. The Ax-3 crew's return officially concludes the first all-European commercial astronaut mission and Axiom Space's third crewed mission to the ISS. The Ax-3 crewmembers include Commander Michael Lopez-Alegria of the U.S. and Spain, Pilot Walter Villadei of the Italian Air Force, and Mission Specialists Alper Gezeravci of Turkiye and Marcus Wandt of Sweden and the European Space Agency (ESA). "The successful return of our Ax-3 astronauts signifies more than just the completion of a human spaceflight mission; it marks a pivotal moment in commercial space exploration and significant milestone for Europe's pursuits in low-Earth orbit," said Axiom Space CEO Michael Suffredini. "Axiom Space's first three commercial missions to the ISS are a testament to international advancement in space, with diverse crews representing eight nations, as well as - for the first time on Ax-3 - the European Space Agency. The success of these missions is an important step along our journey toward Axiom Station, underscoring our continuous efforts to expand access to low-Earth orbit." During their 18-day mission docked to the ISS, the Ax-3 crew lived and worked aboard the orbiting laboratory conducting more than 30 different experiments and more than 50 outreach engagements. Human research data collected on the ground before and after the mission, as well as in flight, will improve understanding of human physiology on Earth and in microgravity. Ax-3 demonstrates that the European community of space-faring nations are pioneers in the burgeoning commercial space industry. The crew and the governments they represent are taking bold steps into a new era of leadership in low-Earth orbit. Ax-3 celebrates many firsts: it was the first commercial spaceflight mission comprised of government and ESA-sponsored national astronauts; Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravci became the first-ever Turkish astronaut; and Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt was the first ESA project astronaut to fly on a commercial space mission. Ax-3 is the third in a series of proposed Axiom Space human spaceflight missions, marking a critical milestone toward the realization of Axiom Station - the world's first commercial space station. Axiom Space is playing an important role in offering human spaceflight opportunities to the larger international community. These missions are enabling governments, individuals, researchers, academic institutions, and organizations across the world to conduct comprehensive scientific research, technology demonstrations, and outreach engagements in the unique environment of microgravity. Axiom Space's first three missions to the ISS included crewmembers from the U.S., Spain, Israel, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Italy, Turkiye, and Sweden, with the support of ESA. In addition, last year, Axiom Space signed an MOU with ESA and the UK Space Agency to explore future human spaceflight opportunities. Axiom Space plans to launch its fourth mission, Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), to the ISS no earlier than October 2024 from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Watch the replay of the splashdown at www.axiomspace.com. ABOUT AXIOM SPACE Axiom Space is building for beyond, guided by the vision of a thriving home in space that benefits every human, everywhere. The leading provider of human spaceflight services and developer of human-rated space infrastructure, Axiom Space operates end-to-end missions to the International Space Station today while developing its successor, Axiom Station - the world's first commercial space station in low-Earth orbit, which will sustain human growth off the planet and bring untold benefits back home. www.axiomspace.com. Contact: media@axiomspace.com Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2337907/Ax3_CrewISS_Axiom_Space.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/ax-3-astronauts-splashdown-completing-first-all-european-commercial-astronaut-mission-to-iss-302058633.html CHICAGO, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The M2M Satellite Communication Market is estimated to grow from USD 15.5 billion in 2023 to USD 28.7 billion in 2028, at a CAGR of 13.1% during the forecast period, according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. The M2M Satellite Communication Market revolves around the use of satellite networks to facilitate seamless communication between machines and devices globally. It enables remote connectivity across diverse industries, offering robust, reliable, and often real-time data transfer for applications in areas where traditional terrestrial networks may be limited or unavailable. This market segment continues to grow due to its ability to support IoT, remote monitoring, asset tracking, and other critical operations in challenging environments. Browse in-depth TOC on "M2M Satellite Communication Market" 300 - Tables 60 - Figures 400 - Pages Download PDF Brochure @ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=33741729 Scope of the Report Report Metrics Details Market size available for years 2017-2028 Base year considered 2022 Forecast period 2023-2028 Forecast units USD Billion Segments Covered Offering (Hardware, Software Type & Services) Technology (Satellite Constellation [Low-Earth Orbit, Medium-Earth Orbit, Geostationary-Earth Orbit]) Data Transmission, VSAT, AIS, Networking, Satellite Communication Protocols), Vertical, and Region. Geographies covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America Middle East & Africa Companies covered Marlink (France), Viasat (US), Thales (France), ORBCOMM (US), Iridium Communications (US), Globalstar (US), Orange (France), EchoStar (US), Intelsat (US), Rogers Communications (Canada), SES (Luxembourg), Gilat (Israel), Telia (Sweden), Kore Wireless (US), Honeywell (US), Qualcomm (US), Telesat (Canada), Wireless Logic (England), Outerlink Global Solutions (US), Nupoint Systems (Canada), Businesscom Networks (US), Semtech (US), Yahsat (UAE). By offering the services segment to account for higher CAGR during the forecast period. The M2M Satellite Communication Market offers a diverse array of services tailored to connect and manage devices across industries. Data services facilitate seamless information exchange between remote devices, enabling real-time monitoring and control. Voice services provide instant communication in areas with limited terrestrial networks, ensuring reliable voice connectivity. Satellite services, including telemetry and remote monitoring, leverage satellite networks for global coverage, enabling effective asset tracking and environmental monitoring. Security services address the need for robust data protection and secure communication, safeguarding sensitive information. Business services encompass consultancy, project management, and ongoing support, ensuring organizations derive maximum value from their M2M deployments. Request Sample Pages@ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=33741729 By Technology, Satellite Constellation is expected to hold the largest market size for the year 2023. Satellite constellations provide extensive coverage and enhance the reliability of communication services. M2M communication involves the exchange of data between devices or systems without human intervention, and satellite constellations contribute to this by ensuring global connectivity. One notable example is the deployment of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellations, where multiple small satellites operate in synchronized orbits at relatively low altitudes. The interconnected nature of these constellations facilitates seamless communication between devices across various industries, including agriculture, transportation, and environmental monitoring. The energy and utilities vertical is projected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. With energy assets dispersed across remote and often challenging environments, M2M satellite communication offers a robust solution for real-time data transmission and control. Satellite communication technology allows for the seamless connectivity of devices such as sensors, smart meters, and monitoring equipment, enabling utilities to remotely manage and optimize their energy distribution networks. This is particularly crucial for power grid operations, where M2M solutions ensure continuous data flow, aiding in fault detection, grid stability management, and response to dynamic energy demands. Europe is expected to hold the second-largest market size for the estimated year. The M2M Satellite Communication Market in Europe is characterized by the collaborative efforts of major countries such as Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and others. Germany, with its robust space industry, leads in secure satellite communications with programs like SPAINSAT NG, showcasing advancements in military capabilities. France, through initiatives like the Syracuse 4B military satellite and collaboration with India on satellite constellations, emphasizes innovation and international partnerships. Italy, with the COSMO-SkyMed constellation and SICRAL 3 secure communications system, plays a significant role in Earth observation and defense communication. Other European countries, including The Netherlands, Switzerland, and Sweden, contribute expertise in areas like Earth observation, precision engineering, and scientific research, enhancing the overall landscape of M2M satellite communication. Top Key Companies in M2M Satellite Communication Market: The major M2M satellite communication hardware, software and service providers include Marlink (France), Viasat (US), Thales (France), ORBCOMM (US), Iridium Communications (US), Globalstar (US), Orange (France), EchoStar (US), Intelsat (US), Rogers Communications (Canada), SES (Luxembourg), Gilat (Israel), Telia (Sweden), Kore Wireless (US), Honeywell (US), Qualcomm (US), Telesat (Canada), Wireless Logic (England), Outerlink Global Solutions (US), Nupoint Systems (Canada), Businesscom Networks (US), Semtech (US), Yahsat (UAE). These companies have used both organic and inorganic growth strategies such as product launches, acquisitions, and partnerships to strengthen their position in the M2M Satellite Communication Market. Recent Developments: In November 2023, SWISSto12 and Thales collaborated to advance the development of Active Electronically Steerable Antennas (AESAs) catering to the Satcom-on-the-move market, particularly for airborne, land, and maritime vehicles. This collaboration involves integrating SWISSto12's innovative 3D-printed antenna apertures with Thales' cutting-edge solid-state beamformers. In October 2023, Viasat introduced upgraded business aviation in-flight broadband service options that align its Viasat Ka-band solution with the Jet ConneX solution from its recently acquired Inmarsat business. This integration aims to provide enhanced in-flight connectivity services for business aviation customers, combining the strengths of both Viasat and Inmarsat offerings to deliver a comprehensive and improved in-flight broadband experience. In July 2023, Thales entered exclusive negotiations to acquire Cobham Aerospace Communications for USD 1.1 billion. This move aligns with Thales' strategy to enhance its Avionics portfolio by gaining a leading position in safety cockpit communications. In May 2023, Viasat announced the acquisition of Inmarsat, marking a significant step that amplifies the company's scale and capabilities. This merger strengthens their position within the dynamic and competitive satellite communications industry, enabling them to leverage expanded scale and scope to drive further growth and innovation. In February 2023, Gilat unveiled the SkyEdge IV Taurus-M, a new satellite modem product tailored for military and government markets. This modem, backward compatible with SkyEdge II-c, safeguards the investments of customers who have previously embraced Gilat's leading satellite network platform. Inquire Before Buying@ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Enquiry_Before_BuyingNew.asp?id=33741729 M2M Satellite Communication Market Advantages: M2M satellite communication enables connectivity in geographically diverse and difficult contexts by offering coverage in remote and rural locations where terrestrial networks are absent or unreliable. No matter where they are, M2M devices may connect to central systems and each other through satellite communication, which provides ubiquitous connection and makes data transmission and monitoring easy. Mission-critical applications can be connected and data transmitted continuously with satellite communication networks, which are resistant to physical infrastructure destruction, network congestion, and natural disasters. M2M satellite communication solutions offer flexibility and scalability for a wide range of applications. They can handle the increasing number of linked devices and expand coverage areas as operating demands change. Telematics, asset tracking, and remote monitoring are just a few of the time-sensitive M2M applications that can benefit from low-latency connectivity provided by advanced satellite communication technology. In spite of the initial costs associated with deployment, M2M satellite communication provides long-term cost efficiency by removing the requirement for expensive investments in terrestrial infrastructure and by offering fixed operating costs for mobile and distant deployments. Applications like fleet management, maritime tracking, and aviation telemetry are supported by M2M connectivity for mobile assets like cars, ships, and aeroplanes made possible by satellite communication over large geographic distances. Report Objectives To define, describe, and predict the M2M Satellite Communication Market by offering (hardware, software type and services), technology, vertical, and region To provide detailed information related to major factors (drivers, restraints, opportunities, and industry-specific challenges) influencing the market growth To analyze the micro markets with respect to individual growth trends, prospects, and their contribution to the total market To analyze the opportunities in the market for stakeholders by identifying the high-growth segments of the M2M Satellite Communication Market To analyze opportunities in the market and provide details of the competitive landscape for stakeholders and market leaders To forecast the market size of segments for five main regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America To profile key players and comprehensively analyze their market rankings and core competencies. To analyze competitive developments, such as partnerships, new product launches, and mergers and acquisitions, in the M2M Satellite Communication Market To analyze the impact of recession across all the regions across the M2M Satellite Communication Market. Browse Adjacent Markets: Satellite Communication Market Research Reports & Consulting Related Reports: Intelligent Building Automation Technologies Market - Global Forecast to 2028 Traffic Management Market- Global Forecast to 2028 Perimeter Security Market - Global Forecast to 2027 Smart Ticketing Market - Global Forecast to 2026 Maritime Satellite Communication Market - Global Forecast to 2025 About MarketsandMarkets MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's best management consulting firms by Forbes, as per their recent report. MarketsandMarkets is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. We have the widest lens on emerging technologies, making us proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients. Earlier this year, we made a formal transformation into one of America's best management consulting firms as per a survey conducted by Forbes. The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion of new revenue streams that are substituting existing revenue streams in this decade alone. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines - TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing. Built on the 'GIVE Growth' principle, we work with several Forbes Global 2000 B2B companies - helping them stay relevant in a disruptive ecosystem. Our insights and strategies are molded by our industry experts, cutting-edge AI-powered Market Intelligence Cloud, and years of research. The KnowledgeStore (our Market Intelligence Cloud) integrates our research, facilitates an analysis of interconnections through a set of applications, helping clients look at the entire ecosystem and understand the revenue shifts happening in their industry. To find out more, visit www.MarketsandMarkets.com or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook. Contact: Mr. Aashish Mehra MarketsandMarkets INC. 630 Dundee Road Suite 430 Northbrook, IL 60062 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: sales@marketsandmarkets.com Research Insight: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/m2m-satellite-communication-market.asp Visit Our Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ Content Source: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/PressReleases/m2m-satellite-communication.asp Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2297424/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/m2m-satellite-communication-market-worth-28-7-billion-by-2028---exclusive-report-by-marketsandmarkets-302057528.html Growing emphasis on effective communication and collaboration in the corporate sector is anticipated to drive the growth of the global online soft skills training market during the forecast period. The Asia-Pacific region is expected to observe significant growth during the forecast period. NEW CASTLE, Del., Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research has recently published a report, titled, "Online Soft Skills Training Market By Type (Communication, Teamwork, Time Management, Problem-solving, Creativity, Leadership, Others), By Company Size (Small Companies, Mid-sized Companies, Large Companies), By Learner (Male, Female), By Application (Business Services, Science and Engineering, Finance and Insurance, Technology, Marketing and Advertising, Healthcare, Others): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032". According to the report, the global online soft skills training market generated $7.2 billion in 2022, and is anticipated to generate $24 billion by 2032, witnessing a CAGR of 12.8% from 2023 to 2032. Prime Determinants of Growth The increasing demand for remote and hybrid work arrangements as well as the rising emphasis on effective cooperation and communication is boosting the growth of the online soft skills training market. However, challenges such as potential technological faults, connection concerns, and skepticism about the reliability of online soft skills training programs are factors restraining the market growth during the forecast period. On the other hand, the rising recognition of the critical role soft skills play in the evolving workplace and the increasing investments in innovative technologies to enhance online training experiences are expected to unlock rewarding growth opportunities in the global online soft skills training market during the forecast period. Request Sample Pages: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/A295265 Report Coverage & Details: Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2023-2032 Base Year 2022 Market Size in 2022 $7.2 billion Market Size in 2032 $24 billion CAGR 12.8 % No. of Pages in Report 320 Segments covered Type, Company Size, Learner, Application, and Region Drivers Increased demand for remote and hybrid work arrangements Growing awareness about the significance of soft skills in adapting to technological advancements and automation Opportunities Increasing investments in advanced technologies to enhance the quality and personalization of online soft skills training Rising recognition of the importance of emotional intelligence and adaptability Restraints Skepticism about the reliability of online soft skills training programs owing to their technical and connection errors COVID-19 Scenario: The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the global online soft skills training market. The pandemic significantly increased access to professional development opportunities, driving a surge in demand for online soft skills training. The removal of physical barriers due to the pandemic boosted inclusivity, allowing individuals across the globe to participate in high-quality training programs from the comfort of their homes. The pandemic surged the importance of soft skills in the remote work environment, leading to an increased emphasis on online training to meet evolving workplace demands. Buy this Complete Report (317 Pages PDF with Insights, Charts, Tables, and Figures) at: Buy this Complete Report (320 Pages PDF with Insights, Charts, Tables, and Figures) at: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/online-soft-skills-training-market/purchase-options Type: Communication Sub-Segment to Grow with Highest CAGR by 2032 The communication sub-segment dominated the market in 2022, holding a major share of 24.5%. This dominance is expected to continue till 2032, growing with a CAGR of 14.1%. This growth is mainly due to the growing recognition of the pivotal role effective communication plays in remote work environments, fostering effective leadership, and meeting the rising demand for clear and efficient communication skills in the evolving professional landscape. Company Size: Large Companies Sub-Segment Expected to Hold Leading Market Share by 2032 The large companies sub-segment dominated the global online soft skills training market share in 2022, holding a major share of 40.4%. This sub-segment is expected to hold a leading market share of 39.8% by 2032. This growth is mainly because of the increasing awareness that employees with enhanced soft skills collaborate more efficiently, reducing misunderstandings and enhancing overall productivity in large corporate settings. Learner: Male Sub-Segment Predicted to Hold Leading Market Share by 2032 The male sub-segment dominated the global online soft skills training market share in 2022, holding a major share of 55.3%. This sub-segment is expected to hold a leading market share of 54.2% by 2032. This growth is mainly because of the increasing recognition of the value of soft skills in fostering effective communication, leadership, and adaptability, driving a rising demand for tailored online training experiences. Application: Business Services Sub-Segment Anticipated to Hold Leading Market Share by 2032 The business services sub-segment led the market in 2022, holding a substantial share of 28.7%. This sub-segment is expected to hold a leading market share of 31.5% by 2032. The growth of the sub-segment is mainly because of the increasing demand for online soft skills training in response to the dynamic nature of the modern workplace, boosting the need for effective communication and collaboration within organizations. By Region: Asia-Pacific Estimated to Dominate the Market in Forecast Period The Asia-Pacific region dominated the global online soft skills training market in 2022, holding a major share of 35.7%. The dominance of this region is expected to continue by rising with a CAGR of 13.6% in the forecast period. This is mainly due to increasing demand for online soft skills training, rising flexibility offered by these programs, and the growing awareness of their cost-effectiveness in the region. Moreover, the region's dynamic corporate environment and diverse workforce needs are key factors boosting the region's dominance in the global online soft skills training market. Enquiry Before Buying: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/purchase-enquiry/A295265 Leading Players in the Online Soft Skills Training Market: Pluralsight LLC HubSpot, Inc. Coursera Udemy Academy Toastmasters International Harvard Extension School Franklin Covey Co. edX LLC. Skillsoft LinkedIn Corporation The report provides a detailed analysis of the key players of the global online soft skills training market. These players have adopted different strategies, such as new product launches, collaborations, expansion, joint ventures, agreements, and others to increase their market share and maintain their dominance in different regions. The report is valuable in highlighting business performance, operating segments, product portfolio, and strategic moves of market players to showcase the competitive scenario. AVENUE- A Subscription-Based Library (Premium on-demand, subscription-based pricing model): AMR introduces its online premium subscription-based library Avenue, designed specifically to offer cost-effective, one-stop solution for enterprises, investors, and universities. With Avenue, subscribers can avail an entire repository of reports on more than 2,000 niche industries and more than 12,000 company profiles. Moreover, users can get an online access to quantitative and qualitative data in PDF and Excel formats along with analyst support, customization, and updated versions of reports. Get an access to the library of reports at any time from any device and anywhere. For more details, follow the link: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/library-access About Us: Allied Market Research (AMR) is a full-service market research and business-consulting wing of Allied Analytics LLP based in Wilmington, Delaware. Allied Market Research provides global enterprises as well as medium and small businesses with unmatched quality of "Market Research Reports Insights" and "Business Intelligence Solutions." AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domain. We are in professional corporate relations with various companies, and this helps us in digging out market data that helps us generate accurate research data tables and confirms utmost accuracy in our market forecasting. Allied Market Research CEO Pawan Kumar is instrumental in inspiring and encouraging everyone associated with the company to maintain high quality of data and help clients in every way possible to achieve success. Each and every data presented in the reports published by us is extracted through primary interviews with top officials from leading companies of domain concerned. Our secondary data procurement methodology includes deep online and offline research and discussion with knowledgeable professionals and analysts in the industry. Contact: David Correa 1209 Orange Street, Corporation Trust Center, Wilmington, New Castle, Delaware 19801 USA. Int'l: +1-503-894-6022 Toll Free: +1-800-792-5285 UK: +44-845-528-1300 India (Pune): +91-20-66346060 Fax: +1-800-792-5285 help@alliedmarketresearch.com Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/636519/Allied_Market_Research_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/online-soft-skills-training-market-to-reach-24-billion-globally-by-2032-at-12-8-cagr-allied-market-research-302058603.html DUBAI, UAE, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the recent report published by Kings Research, the global Energy as a Service Market size was recorded at USD 63.62 billion in 2022 and is estimated to grow to USD 135.22 billion by 2030, exhibiting a robust 10.12% CAGR over the forecast period of 2023-2030. Energy as a service (EaaS) is an innovative approach in the energy sector that offers comprehensive energy solutions to customers, encompassing supply, administration, efficacy, and frequently renewable resources. This model is propelled by several factors, including sustainability, financial advantages, and advancements in technology. Energy as a service (EaaS) is a customer-oriented strategy within the energy sector that offers customers holistic energy solutions rather than solely selling energy. EaaS encompasses different elements such as energy provision, administration, funding, monitoring, and sustainability. The main goal of EaaS is to streamline energy management, improve efficiency, lower expenses, and facilitate the widespread use of renewable energy technologies. EaaS empowers customers by providing a comprehensive range of energy-related services. This allows them to concentrate on their primary business functions while entrusting the intricacies of energy management to a service provider. By adopting this approach, customers not only save significant time and resources but also gain the ability to make more precise and informed decisions based on data. Get a Sample PDF of the Report https://www.kingsresearch.com/request-sample/energy-as-a-service-market-387 Competitive Landscape Leading companies in the global energy as a service market are increasingly focusing on strategic partnerships in order to expand their business in the worldwide marketplace. For instance, in August 2022, Schneider Electric, a global corporation, forged a significant alliance with Tietoevry in order to enhance its website's search capabilities worldwide. This partnership aims to provide a cohesive user experience across all of Schneider Electric's subsidiary brands, aligning with their objective of achieving a first-rate browsing experience. Prominent participants in the energy as a service market include: Schneider Electric Siemens Engie Honeywell International Inc. Veolia Johnson Controls Bernhard General Electric Entegrity Centrica plc. Have an Inquiry? Get in Touch with us @ https://www.kingsresearch.com/enquiry/energy-as-a-service-market-387 Trending Now: Pexapark's Series C Funding Round Nets 20M for Enhanced Renewable Energy Solutions In September 2023, Zurich-based energy investment platform Pexapark secured 20 million in a Telstra Ventures-led Series C funding round. The funds were to support market expansion and enhance PPA transaction advisory services. With a focus on post subsidy renewable energy sales as well as risk management, Pexapark set out to establish price transparency to 19 global markets. The A&G Energy Transition Tech Fund and Swisscom Ventures also contributed to the round. The company's software and advisory services have been utilized by over 200 renewable energy firms, including Statkraft, Octopus Energy Generation, EDF Renewables, BP, and Covestro, facilitating over 30GW of PPA deals until now. Rising Demand for Energy Supply Services to Aid Energy as a Service Market Growth Based on service type, the energy supply service segment is likely to experience substantial growth in the forthcoming years, accounting for a market share of 34.46% by 2030. The rise in the demand for reliable and eco-friendly energy sources is the key driving force behind this significant expansion. Energy supply services bring a multitude of advantages, including uninterrupted power, improved energy efficiency, and cost savings. These benefits are propelling the adoption of such services across various industries. Furthermore, technological advancements and the incorporation of renewable energy sources are playing a significant role in fostering the growth of the energy supply service segment. Ask for Customization: https://www.kingsresearch.com/customization/energy-as-a-service-market-387 Growing Use of Energy Management Systems in Commercial Sectors to Augment Energy as a Service Market Revenue By end-user, the commercial segment is expected to lead the market over the review period, registering revenue of USD 79.38 billion by 2030. The substantial expansion of this segment is primarily fueled by the growing utilization of energy management systems and the rising need for environmentally friendly and effective energy solutions in commercial structures. Moreover, the expansion of the commercial sector in the energy as a service market is being propelled by government regulations and initiatives aimed at promoting energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. As businesses become increasingly aware of the potential for cost savings and the environmental advantages of outsourcing their energy requirements, the commercial segment is projected to experience substantial growth in the foreseeable future. Purchase This Comprehensive Research Report for Valuable Market Insights: https://www.kingsresearch.com/buy-now/387 Increasing Adoption of Distributed Energy Sources to Drive Energy as a Service Market Expansion The increasing adoption of distributed energy resources and electric vehicles has led to a growing need for advanced grid management and demand response services. EaaS providers can assist businesses in effectively managing their energy consumption and taking part in demand response programs to receive incentives. They offer sophisticated software solutions and real-time monitoring systems that empower businesses to optimize their energy usage and decrease expenses. Moreover, through the integration of renewable energy sources and energy storage, EaaS providers can bolster the stability and resilience of the power grid. By leveraging their knowledge and advanced technology, businesses have the opportunity to actively contribute toward establishing a more sustainable and efficient energy infrastructure, all while reaping the advantages of increased energy savings and enhanced flexibility. North America to Dominate Energy as a Service Market Due to Government Efforts to Promote Clean Energy Solutions North America is projected to lead the global energy as a service market in the foreseeable future, growing at a robust 7.26% CAGR from 2023 to 2030. The significant expansion of the regional market is the result of the growing acceptance of renewable energy sources and government efforts to encourage the use of clean energy solutions. Furthermore, North America's leading market players and advanced technological infrastructure play a pivotal role in establishing its prominence in the global energy as a service industry. Moreover, the increasing demand for energy-efficient solutions and the imperative to decrease carbon emissions within the region are projected to propel the growth of the domestic market. For more information on the report, visit: https://www.kingsresearch.com/energy-as-a-service-market-387 Key Points from TOC: 1 Introduction of the Global Energy as a Service Market 1.1 Market Definition 1.2 Market Segmentation 1.3 Research Timelines 1.4 Limitations 1.5 Assumptions 2 Executive Summary 3 Research Methodology 3.1 Data Collection 3.1.1 Secondary Sources 3.1.2 Primary Sources 3.1.3 Research Flow 3.2 Subject Matter Expert Advice 3.3 Quality Check 3.4 Final Review 3.5 Bottom-Up Approach 3.6 Top-down Approach 4 Global Energy as a Service Market Outlook 4.1 Market Evolution 4.2 Overview 4.3 Market Dynamics 4.3.1 Drivers 4.3.2 Restraints 4.3.3 Opportunities 4.3.4 Challenges 4.4 Pricing Analysis 4.5 Porter's Five Forces Analysis 4.6 Value Chain Analysis 4.7 Macroeconomic Analysis 5 Impact of Russia-Ukraine War 6 Global Energy as a Service Market, By Service Type 7 Global Energy as a Service Market, By End-User 8 Global Energy as a Service Market, By Geography 9 North America 10 Europe 11 Asia Pacific 12 Middle East & Africa 13 Latin America 14 GLOBAL ENERGY AS A SERVICE MARKET COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE 14.1 Overview 14.2 Key Developments 14.3 Key Strategic Developments 14.4 Company Market Ranking 14.5 Regional Footprint 14.6 Industry Footprint 15 Company Profiles 15.1 Schneider Electric 15.1.1 Key Facts 15.1.2 Financial Overview 15.1.3 Product Benchmarking 15.1.4 Recent Developments 15.1.5 Winning Imperatives 15.1.6 Current Focus & Strategies 15.1.7 Threat from competition 15.1.8 SWOT Analysis 15.2 Siemens 15.2.1 Key Facts 15.2.2 Financial Overview 15.2.3 Product Benchmarking 15.2.4 Recent Developments 15.2.5 Winning Imperatives 15.2.6 Current Focus & Strategies 15.2.7 Threat from competition 15.2.8 SWOT Analysis 15.3 Engie 15.3.1 Key Facts 15.3.2 Financial Overview 15.3.3 Product Benchmarking 15.3.4 Recent Developments 15.3.5 Winning Imperatives 15.3.6 Current Focus & Strategies 15.3.7 Threat from competition 15.3.8 SWOT Analysis 15.4 Honeywell International Inc 15.4.1 Key Facts 15.4.2 Financial Overview 15.4.3 Product Benchmarking 15.4.4 Recent Developments 15.4.5 Winning Imperatives 15.4.6 Current Focus & Strategies 15.4.7 Threat from competition 15.4.8 SWOT Analysis 15.5 Veolia 15.5.1 Key Facts 15.5.2 Financial Overview 15.5.3 Product Benchmarking 15.5.4 Recent Developments 15.5.5 Winning Imperatives 15.5.6 Current Focus & Strategies 15.5.7 Threat from competition 15.5.8 SWOT Analysis Continued Browse Complete TOC:https://www.kingsresearch.com/toc/energy-as-a-service-market-387 Browse More Related Reports: Building-to-Grid Technology Market: Global Industry Analysis and Forecast 2023-2030 Mobile Power Plant Market: Global Industry Analysis and Forecast 2023-2030 Pipeline & Process Services Market: Global Industry Analysis and Forecast 2023-2030 Power Generation Market: Global Industry Analysis and Forecast 2023-2030 Solar Power Panel Market: Global Industry Analysis and Forecast 2023-2030 About Us: Kings Research stands as a renowned global market research firm. With a collaborative approach, we work closely with industry leaders, conducting thorough assessments of trends and developments. Our primary objective is to provide decision-makers with tailored research reports that align with their unique business objectives. Through our comprehensive research studies, we strive to empower leaders to make informed decisions. Our team comprises individuals with diverse backgrounds and a wealth of knowledge in various industries. At Kings Research, we offer a comprehensive range of services aimed at assisting you in formulating efficient strategies to achieve your desired outcomes. Our objective is to significantly enhance your long-term progress through these tailored solutions. Contact Us Kings Research Phone: (+1) 888 328 2189 E-mail: business@kingsresearch.com Website: https://www.kingsresearch.com Blog: https://www.kingsresearch.com/blog Follow Us: LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/global-energy-as-a-service-market-to-hit-usd-135-22-billion-by-2030--exhibiting-a-strong-10-12-cagr-with-north-america-leading-the-industry-due-to-favorable-government-initiatives-estimates-kings-research-302058627.html CHICAGO, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The machine-to-machine (M2M) connections market is projected to grow from USD 2.9 billion units in 2024 to USD 5.3 billion units by 2029, registering a CAGR of 12.7% during the forecast period according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. The market growth is attributed to increasing support by the government towards M2M connections and the growing popularity of smart cities and connected cars. Furthermore, the emergence of M2M devices in telemedicine is expected to create lucrative opportunities for the market. Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=732 Browse in-depth TOC on "Machine-to-machine (M2M) Connections Market" 120 - Tables 60 - Figures 200 - Pages Machine Safety Market Machine-to-machine (M2M) Connections Market Report Scope: Report Coverage Details Market Revenue in 2024 $ 2.9 billion Estimated Value by 2029 $ 5.3 billion Growth Rate Poised to grow at a CAGR of 12.7% Market Size Available for 2020-2029 Forecast Period 2024-2029 Forecast Units Value (USD Million/Billion) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered By Technology, End-user Industry, and Region Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of World Key Market Challenge Privacy and security Key Market Opportunities Emergence of M2M devices in Telemedicine Key Market Drivers Growing popularity of smart cities and connected cars The short range wireless technology machine-to-machine (M2M) connections segment is expected to account for the largest share of the machine-to-machine (M2M) connections market in 2024. The short-range segment is a significant market for machine-to-machine (M2M) connections. Short-range technologies have a larger number of connections than cellular because cellular wireless standards are mainly used for dubbing and aggregation purposes in applications such as hospitals, power plants, oil and gas refineries, retail stores, and smart appliances, while short-range modules are used for the distribution of the cellular network throughout that concerned area of application. Universal subscriber identity modules (USIMs) are not very suitable for application in M2M devices, which require modules with a higher level of resistance in severe environments, better robustness, and longer data retention. These attributes are available in Machine Identification Modules or M2M Identification Modules (MIM), which have been specifically developed for M2M applications. Unlike conventional SIMs, which are issued to general consumers, MIMs are used in machines communicating with each other. The high demand for these modules is indicative of the high growth of the cellular M2M connection market. The Automotive & Transportation segment is expected to account for the largest share of the machine-to-machine (M2M) connections market in 2024. The automotive & transportation segment accounted for the largest share of the machine-to-machine (M2M) connections market in 2024, and a similar trend is expected to be witnessed during the forecast period. The recent developments in automotive & transportation that are expected to drive the growth are: Public transportation, such as buses and trains, will transform through connectivity. Subway cars in New York City will be equipped with chargers, built-in Wi-Fi, and security cameras, according to the city's Metropolitan Transportation Authority. In June 2021, The European Union Funded the 5G-IANA project with over USD 7 million to develop an Automotive Open Experimental Platform (AOEP). The goal is to look into the market condition and identify opportunities for innovation and sustainable long-term development of 5G in the automotive sector. Inquiry Before Buying: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Enquiry_Before_BuyingNew.asp?id=732 The Asia Pacific market is expected to witness the highest CAGR in the machine-to-machine (M2M) connections market during the forecast period. Asia Pacific is projected to record the highest CAGR during the forecast period. China, India, South Korea, and Japan are the major contributors to the growth of the machine-to-machine (M2M) connections industry in Asia Pacific. Asia Pacific has been ahead of other regions in terms of the adoption of M2M connections products and solutions. Continuous demand for cost-effective and highly efficient M2M connections from consumer electronics, utilities, healthcare, automotive & transportation, among other industries is expected to drive the growth of the M2M connections market in this region. Furthermore, many countries in the Asia-Pacific region, such as China and India, have been actively investing in smart city projects. M2M connections play a crucial role in creating connected and intelligent urban environments and addressing issues related to transportation, energy, and public services. For instance, the Indian government has announced a plan to develop 100 smart cities in India. All industries are seeing a boom phase in the commercialization of IoT, particularly in Asia Pacific's developing nations. As a hub for significant investments and business expansion, the region has gained international attention. The high production and consumption of electronic devices in Asia Pacific are likely to drive significant growth in the area. Key players Key players in the machine-to-machine (M2M) connections companies include AT&T Intellectual Property (US), Cisco Systems, Inc. (US), Huawei Technologies (China), NXP Semiconductors N.V. (Netherlands), Texas Instruments Incorporated (US), Intel Corporation (US), China Mobile International Limited (China), Thales (France), Vodafone Group Plc (UK), Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd. (Japan), U-Blox Holding AG (Switzerland), and among others. Get 10% Free Customization on this Report: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestCustomizationNew.asp?id=732 Browse Adjacent Market: Semiconductor and Electronics Market Research Reports &Consulting Related Reports: Cellular M2M Market by Service (Connectivity, Professional, and Managed), Application (Asset Tracking and Monitoring, Predictive Maintenance, Telemedicine, and Fleet Management), End User, Organization Size, and Region - Global Forecast to 2025 Wireless Connectivity Market by Connectivity (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Classic, Bluetooth 4X, Bluetooth 5X, ZigBee, Z-Wave, UWB, NFC, Thread, GNSS, Cellular, EnOcean, Sigfox, LoRa, LTE Cat-M1, NB-IoT), End-use and Region - Global Forecast to 2027 U.S. Machine-to-Machine (M2M) Connections Market by Technology (Wired and Wireless), Industry Verticals (Healthcare, Utilities, Retail, Consumer Electronics, Automotive & Transportation, Security & Surveillance, and Others) - Forecast to 2020 IoT Chip Market Size, Share by Hardware (Processor, Connectivity IC, Sensor, Memory Device and Logic Device), Power Consumption, End-use Application (Wearable Devices, Consumer Electronics, Building Automation and Retail) and Region - Global Forecast to 2025 Wi-Fi Chipset Market by IEEE Standard (802.11be, 802.11ax, 802.11ac), End-use application (Consumer, Smarthome, AR/VR, Networking Devices), Band, MIMO configuration, Vertical and Geography About MarketsandMarkets MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's best management consulting firms by Forbes, as per their recent report. MarketsandMarkets is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. We have the widest lens on emerging technologies, making us proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients. Earlier this year, we made a formal transformation into one of America's best management consulting firms as per a survey conducted by Forbes. The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion of new revenue streams that are substituting existing revenue streams in this decade alone. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines - TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing. Built on the 'GIVE Growth' principle, we work with several Forbes Global 2000 B2B companies - helping them stay relevant in a disruptive ecosystem. Our insights and strategies are molded by our industry experts, cutting-edge AI-powered Market Intelligence Cloud, and years of research. The KnowledgeStore (our Market Intelligence Cloud) integrates our research, facilitates an analysis of interconnections through a set of applications, helping clients look at the entire ecosystem and understand the revenue shifts happening in their industry. To find out more, visit www.MarketsandMarkets.com or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook. Contact: Mr. Aashish Mehra MarketsandMarkets INC. 630 Dundee Road Suite 430 Northbrook, IL 60062 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: sales@marketsandmarkets.com Visit Our Web Site: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ Research Insight: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/machine-to-machine-market.asp Content Source: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/PressReleases/machine-to-machine1.asp Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2297424/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/machine-to-machine-m2m-connections-market-worth-5-3-billion-units-by-2029---exclusive-report-by-marketsandmarkets-302057862.html Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2024) - BELGRAVIA HARTFORD CAPITAL INC. (CSE: BLGV) ("Belgravia Hartford", "Belgravia" or the "Company") is providing an update on the litigation vs PolyNatura Corp. in United States District Court for the District of New Mexico Case No. 2:21-cv-00918. Belgravia is seeking to recover $12.2M USD plus additional damages arising from breaches of the Royalty Agreement it signed in 2017 with Cartesian Capital LLP. Court Rulings: January 11, 2024, Magistrate Judge Jerry H. Ritter entered a Memorandum Opinion and Order Denying PolyNatura's Request to Stay Discovery. This is an important step for Belgravia as it overruled PolyNatura's request to halt depositions. Belgravia argues that such depositions were necessary to understand why no revenues have been generated thus far by PolyaNatura and the circumstances surrounding the 2017 settlement between IC Potash Corp. and Cartesian Capital. On September 28, 2023, PolyNatura filed a Notice of Non-Appearance indicating that certain defense witnesses noticed for depositions would not be appearing for their depositions. On October 6, 2023, PolyNatura filed a Motion for Summary Judgment, and argued in its reply brief that depositions were not necessary to rule on the Motion for Summary Judgment. District Judge Margaret I. Strickland disagreed and on January 16, 2024, ordered that PolyNatura shall have 7 days to withdraw its previously filed Motion for Summary Judgment without prejudice. With Judge Strickland's and Judge Ritter's ruling now in place, depositions are scheduled to start on February 9, 2024. Mehdi Azodi President & CEO of Belgravia said "The recent developments and orders from the federal judges are positive steps to expediate the case to trial, Belgravia will be gathering further evidence along the way and regular updates will be made available on the progress of this case". About Belgravia Hartford Belgravia Hartford Capital Inc. ("Belgravia" or the "Company") is a publicly traded investment holding company listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange. Belgravia is focused on growing its assets and holdings and increasing its net asset value (NAV). Belgravia invests in a portfolio of private and public companies located in jurisdictions governed by the rule of law. It takes a multi-sector investment approach with emphasis in the resources and commodities sector. Belgravia and its investments are considered high risk holdings and it may expose shareholders to significant volatility and losses. For more information, please visit www.belgraviahartford.com Forward-Looking Statements Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties 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. Forward-looking statements include statements that use forward-looking terminology such as "may", "will", "expect", "anticipate", "believe", "continue", "potential" or the negative thereof or other variations thereof or comparable terminology. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding planned investment activities & related returns, the timing for completion of research and development activities, the potential value of royalties, and other statements that are not historical facts. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of the Company, including, but not limited to, changes in market trends, the completion, results and timing of research undertaken by the Company, risks associated with resource assets, the impact of general economic conditions, commodity prices, industry conditions, dependence upon regulatory, environmental, and governmental approvals, and the uncertainty of obtaining additional financing. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. For More Information, Please Contact: Mehdi Azodi, President & CEO Belgravia Hartford Capital Inc. (416) 779-3268 mazodi@blgv.ca To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/197403 SOURCE: Belgravia Hartford Capital Inc Event Follows Recent Announcement on AP300 SMR New Build Plan Westinghouse Electric Company today announced that representatives for more than 130 vendors attended its U.K. Supplier Symposium this week. The two-day event in Lancashire provided a forum to engage with current and potential suppliers for Westinghouse's numerous potential nuclear new build projects in the United Kingdom. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240209579859/en/ Sean Jones, a Westinghouse Energy Systems senior director, spoke this week at the U.K. Supplier Symposium. (Photo: Business Wire) The recent publication of the Civil Nuclear Roadmap has confirmed the U.K.'s ambition to deliver 24GW of new nuclear capacity by 2050 and establish a secure and independent nuclear fuel supply chain. Westinghouse is preparing to meet this vision with its proven, globally deployed gigawatt-scale AP1000 reactor and its complementary AP300TM Small Modular Reactor (SMR), as well as in-country fuel and fuel services capability and excellence. The AP300 SMR continues to advance through the technology selection process with Great British Nuclear (GBN). Westinghouse also recently signed an agreement with Community Nuclear Power Ltd to deploy four AP300 SMRs in North Teesside, advancing the U.K.'s first privately financed SMR project. Both are significant steps in making this new energy sector a reality with commercial operation expected by the early 2030s. "Westinghouse sees tremendous opportunity for our local supplier partners in the U.K. as we advance these vital projects," said Rita Baranwal, Senior Vice President for Energy Systems, Westinghouse. "We have a long history working side-by-side with the British nuclear industry and that legacy will continue for decades to come. With the Roadmap also committing to a new Gigawatt project and U.K. fuel and fuel services capability, we felt that now was the perfect moment to both help the supply chain understand the breadth and scale of opportunity and our requirements to ensure delivery with sustainable social value." Westinghouse organized the supplier event with support from the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre and opening remarks were provided by the Nuclear Industry Association, Lancashire County Council and the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero. In May 2023, Westinghouse launched the AP300 small modular reactor, the only SMR based on an advanced, large Generation III+ reactor already in operation globally, the proven AP1000 technology. Unlike every other SMR under development with first-of-a-kind technologies and risks, Westinghouse's AP300 SMR utilizes the AP1000 engineering, components, and supply chain, enabling streamlined licensing and leveraging available technical skills. Together, these factors provide confidence that the first operating unit will be available in the early 2030s. The advantageous economics of the AP300 SMR are based on robust analysis and existing project costs from AP1000 reactors already in operation or development on three continents. Besides the U.K., the AP300 SMR is also under consideration by customers in Europe and North America. The AP1000 reactor is the only operating Generation III+ reactor with fully passive safety systems, modular construction design and has the smallest footprint per MWe on the market. One AP1000 reactor is operational with another near completion the Vogtle site in Georgia, while four AP1000 units are currently setting operational performance records in China with four additional reactors under construction, and two more planned. Nine units have been announced for Ukraine, and the technology is under consideration at multiple other sites in Central and Eastern Europe, the United Kingdom, and in the United States. Westinghouse Electric Company is shaping the future of carbon-free energy by providing safe, innovative nuclear and other clean power technologies and services globally. Westinghouse supplied the world's first commercial pressurized water reactor in 1957 and the company's technology is the basis for nearly one-half of the world's operating nuclear plants. Over 135 years of innovation makes Westinghouse the preferred partner for advanced technologies covering the complete nuclear energy life cycle. For more information, visit www.westinghousenuclear.com and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240209579859/en/ Contacts: media@westinghouse.com Redde Northgate Plc - Transaction in Own Shares PR Newswire LONDON, United Kingdom, February 09 NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR INTO OR FROM ANY JURISDICTION WHERE TO DO SO WOULD CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF THE RELEVANT LAWS OR REGULATIONS OF SUCH JURISDICTION 09 February 2024 REDDE NORTHGATE PLC ("Redde Northgate" or the "Group" or the "Company") Transaction in Own Shares Redde Northgate plc (LSE:REDD) announces that on 09 February 2024 it purchased the following number of its own shares to be held in treasury: Class of shares : Ordinary shares of 50p ("shares") Number of shares purchased : 100,000 Weighted average purchase price paid : 338.88309 pence per share Highest purchase price paid : 340 pence per share Lowest purchase price paid : 337 pence per share Following the above transaction, the Company's issued share capital consists of 246,091,423 ordinary shares of 50p each, of which 18,665,071 ordinary shares are held in treasury, and 1,000,000 preference shares of 50p each which do not carry any rights to vote. Therefore the total number of voting rights in the Company is 227,426,352 which may be used by shareholders as the denominator for the calculations by which they will determine if they are required to notify their interest in, or a change to their interest in the Company under the FCA's Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules. In accordance with Article 5(1)(b) of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 (the Market Abuse Regulation) as incorporated into UK domestic law by the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, the schedule below contains detailed information about the purchases made by Numis Securities Limited on behalf of the Company as part of the Company's buyback programme. Schedule of Purchases - Individual Transactions (as at 09 February 2024) Number of shares purchased Transaction price (GB pence per share) Time of transaction Transaction reference number Venue 1321 42 623 1402 740 347 653 622 257 619 25000 1100 4657 430 95 31 1408 530 1115 1457 530 1330 870 179 191 136 1157 62 531 499 2260 300 1258 208 1516 1554 1606 5 105 43254 339.50 339.50 339.00 339.00 339.00 338.50 338.50 338.50 337.00 337.00 337.20 339.50 339.50 339.50 339.50 339.50 339.50 339.50 339.50 339.50 339.00 339.00 339.00 339.00 339.00 339.00 339.00 339.00 340.00 340.00 340.00 340.00 340.00 340.00 340.00 339.50 339.50 339.00 339.00 339.50 08:38:00 08:38:00 08:41:34 08:41:34 08:41:34 08:41:34 08:41:34 08:41:34 11:59:13 11:59:13 13:46:50 14:15:20 14:15:20 14:15:20 14:15:20 14:23:01 14:23:01 14:23:01 14:23:01 14:23:01 14:23:13 14:49:10 14:49:10 14:50:02 14:50:02 14:50:02 14:50:02 14:50:02 15:09:02 15:10:02 15:10:02 15:10:02 15:10:02 15:10:02 15:10:02 15:14:04 15:14:04 15:24:02 15:24:02 15:26:01 00068828302TRLO0 00068828301TRLO0 00068828359TRLO0 00068828358TRLO0 00068828357TRLO0 00068828361TRLO0 00068828360TRLO0 00068828362TRLO0 00068833191TRLO0 00068833190TRLO0 00068835407TRLO0 00068836076TRLO0 00068836077TRLO0 00068836078TRLO0 00068836079TRLO0 00068836333TRLO0 00068836334TRLO0 00068836335TRLO0 00068836336TRLO0 00068836337TRLO0 00068836354TRLO0 00068837309TRLO0 00068837308TRLO0 00068837322TRLO0 00068837321TRLO0 00068837320TRLO0 00068837319TRLO0 00068837318TRLO0 00068837992TRLO0 00068838060TRLO0 00068838061TRLO0 00068838062TRLO0 00068838063TRLO0 00068838064TRLO0 00068838065TRLO0 00068838267TRLO0 00068838266TRLO0 00068838626TRLO0 00068838625TRLO0 00068838695TRLO0 LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE LSE Notes This announcement is made in accordance with the requirements of Listing Rule 12.4.6. For further information contact: Buchanan David Rydell/Jamie Hooper/Hannah Ratcliff +44 (0) 207 466 5000 Notes to Editors: Redde Northgate is the leading integrated mobility solutions platform providing services across the vehicle lifecycle. The Company offers integrated mobility solutions to businesses, fleet operators, insurers, OEMs and other customers across seven key areas: vehicle rental, vehicle data, accident management, vehicle repairs, fleet management, service and maintenance, vehicle ancillary services and vehicle sales. The Company's core purpose is to keep its customers mobile, whether through meeting their regular mobility needs or by servicing and supporting them when unforeseen events occur. With its considerable scale and reach, Redde Northgate's mission is to offer a market-leading customer proposition and drive enhanced returns for shareholders by creating value through sustainable compounding growth. The Group aims to achieve this through the delivery of its strategic framework of Focus, Drive and Broaden. Redde Northgate services its customers through a network and diversified fleet of over 120,000 owned and leased vehicles, supporting over 600,000 managed vehicles, with more than 170 workshop, body shop and rental locations across the UK, Ireland and Spain and a specialist team of over 6,000 automotive services professionals. Further information please visit the Company's website: Finsbury Growth & Income Trust Plc - Transaction in Own Shares PR Newswire LONDON, United Kingdom, February 09 For immediate release 9 February 2024 FINSBURY GROWTH & INCOME TRUST PLC (the "Company") MARKET PURCHASE OF COMPANY'S OWN SHARES The Company announces that it has today purchased 206,422 of its own shares ("Ordinary Shares") at a price of 849.16 pence per Ordinary Share. Such shares will be held in treasury by the Company. The transaction was made pursuant to the authority granted at the Annual General Meeting of the Company held on 23 January 2024. Following this transaction, the total number of Ordinary Shares held by the Company in treasury is 31,459,080; the total number of Ordinary Shares that the Company has in issue, less the total number of Ordinary Shares held by the Company in treasury following such purchase, and therefore, the total number of voting rights in the Company is 193,532,223. The figure of 193,532,223 may be used by shareholders as the denominator for calculations of interests in the Company's voting rights in accordance with the FCA's Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules. For and on behalf of Frostrow Capital LLP Company Secretary For further information, please contact: Victoria Hale Frostrow Capital LLP Tel: 020 3 170 8732 The cannabis-themed restaurant and bar is eagerly anticipating its opening and can't wait to light the joint up and be the undisputed local hangout for curing cottonmouth and the munchies. EL PASO, TX / ACCESSWIRE / February 9, 2024 / Cheba journeyman Isaac Montoya and his astonishing team are true representatives of the Hut! The team is thrilled to bring their immense talents to the wonderful city of El Paso, TX, and stoked to continue their storied relationship with the "toasted" sub and bar concept. Montoya's professional evolution within the Chebaverse is one of hard work and passion. Starting as a crew member and rapidly moving up the ranks to general manager and eventually an owner, he is a full embodiment of the brand and will now have four locations under his belt with more on the radar. Montoya and his team have been highly regarded representatives of the Hut throughout the South for quite some time, crushing the New Mexico markets and now taking their talents into the Lone Star State. They believe it is vital for the new shop to reflect the history of El Paso and its inviting community of residents. Two examples of how they plan to express these aspirations are through their central mural and offering a spacious patio with over 100 seats for homies to soak up the West Texas sun. Montoya explains, "El Paso is a very unique location because of how neighborhood-oriented it is and we plan to lean into that with the new shop. Our goal is to become the city's undisputed neighborhood hangout, and I truly feel the interior and exterior of the shop capture that inviting vibe we hope to give off." Not only will the new Texas location be serving up a variety of dank subs, fluffy pretzel nugs, and gooey krispy treats that can cure any level of the munchies, but also, for the 21 and up homies, they'll be slinging some delicious signature cocktails and local brews from their full bar that will obliterate any presence of cottonmouth! Isaac and his team wholeheartedly understand the importance of maintaining Cheba Hut's Core Values (The Hustle, Show Respect, Own It, Pay It Forward, Keep It Real). Montoya explains, "Owning It is our top priority. We struggle as humans to own our successes so we want to emphasize the wins and celebrate them. Being engaged, transparent, and seeing every little task through in its entirety are all the aspects of this core value that we aim to display." The shop, located at 3001 N Zaragoza Road, El Paso, TX, 79938, opens its doors on Friday, 2/23! The brand is stoked to bring over 30 signature "toasted" subs, an array of delicious munchie treats, and cottonmouth cures for all ages (Crafted Cocktails for the 21+ homies) to the El Paso area! For more info about opening day and upcoming events, check out chebahut.texas! Contact Information Mel Banister Marketing Manager mel@chebahut.com Related Files For Immediate Release El Paso-Zaragoza will soon have its very own Cheba Hut Toasted Subs Location! (1).pdf SOURCE: Cheba Hut Franchising View the original press release on newswire.com. MOUNTAIN VIEW (dpa-AFX) - Alphabet Inc.'s (GOOG) Google launched Gemini Advanced, which can perform high complex tasks such as coding, logical reasoning, following nuanced instructions and collaborating on creative projects, powered by the company's largest AI model, Ultra 1.0. 'Gemini Advanced not only allows you to have longer, more detailed conversations; it also better understands the context from your previous prompts', the company stated. The tech giant informed that the advanced model will be now available in 150 countries and territories as part of Google One AI Premium Plan for $19.99 per month, with free trial for two months. The premium plan subscribers will soon be able to use Gemini in Google Workspace along with access to the existing Google One Premium plan, which provides users with a 2TB of storage. Recently, the California-based company renamed its Bard chatbot as Gemini, which will play the role of a true AI assistant by performing some key Google Assistant tasks. Google launched an android app for Gemini and Gemini Advanced to enhance the mobile experience. An iOS app will soon be launched in the upcoming weeks. 'With Gemini on your phone, you can type, talk or add an image for all kinds of help while you're on the go: You can take a picture of your flat tire and ask for instructions, generate a custom image for your dinner party invitation or ask for help writing a difficult text message', the company explained. Copyright(c) 2024 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - After a strong upmove, oil prices fell into the red around noon on Friday, but recovered swiftly to eventually end the day's session moderately higher. Escalating tensions in the Middle East, raised concerns about supply disruptions and pushed up oil prices. Data released by the Energy Information Administration (EIA) that showed a big drop in gasoline inventories in the U.S. last week continued to support oil prices. West Texas Intermediate Crude oil futures for March ended higher by $0.62 at $76.84 a barrel, gaining for a fifth straight session. WTI crude futures gained more than 6% in the week. Brent crude futures were up $0.34 or about 0.4% at $81.97 a barrel a little while ago. Oil prices climbed higher amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected a ceasefire proposal by Hamas. After the Israelian Prime Minister's decision to reject Hamas' terms for a ceasefire, Israel bombarded the southern city of Rafah on the Egyptian border. Earlier in the week, the U.S. carried out a strike that killed a commander of the Iran-backed armed group Kataib Hezbollah. Ukraine launched drone attacks against two oil refineries in southern Russia on Friday, resulting in a fire at the Ilsky refinery. Copyright(c) 2024 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. BURBANK (dpa-AFX) - The Walt Disney Co. (DIS) is beta testing an artificial intelligence powered advertising tool, dubbed 'Magic Words', for its Disney plus and Hulu streaming platforms, according to a Reuters report. Unlike the traditional demographic advertising, the ad tool will use artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyze Disney's library to play commercials matching the mood of the movies and shows. By analyzing and tagging scenes, Disney's magic words tool identifies the contents, brands, images and mood within each scene, the report stated. The information will be stored as metadata, which will be later utilized by brands to play personalized advertisements. The report further stated that the tool will help advertisers to maximize the impact of commercials by connecting with the emotions of consumers. Currently, the new advertising tool is in beta testing with six advertising companies namely, Omnicom (OMC), Group M, Dentsu (DNTUF), Horizon Media, IPG Mediabrands (IPG) and Publicis Media (PUBGY), Disney stated in the report. The innovative tool was first showcased by Disney at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas in January. Copyright(c) 2024 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2024) - Chakana Copper Corp. (TSXV: PERU) (FSE: 1ZX) (the "Company" or "Chakana") announces that the Company has applied to the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV") to extend the term of 28,369,789 common share purchase warrants currently set to expire on May 20, 2024 and June 21, 2024 (the "Warrants") to October 31, 2024. The Warrants were originally issued pursuant to a private placement of units completed by the Company on May 20, 2022 and June 21, 2022. The Company has also applied to amend the price of the Warrants currently priced at C$0.20 to C$0.11. The amendment to extend the expiry date of the Warrants to October 31, 2024, and the exercise price of the Warrants from $0.20 to $0.11 is subject to the approval of the TSXV. About Chakana Copper Corp Chakana Copper Corp is a Canadian-based minerals exploration company that is currently advancing the Soledad Project located in the Ancash region of Peru, a highly favorable mining jurisdiction with supportive communities. The Soledad Project is notable for the high-grade copper-gold-silver mineralization that is hosted in tourmaline breccia pipes and other intrusion-related styles of mineralization. An initial inferred resource estimate for seven breccia pipes was announced in January, 2022 (see news release dated February 23, 2022), with 6.73 Mt containing 191,000 ounces of gold, 11.7 million ounces of silver, and 130 million pounds of copper. In addition, extensive multidisciplinary exploration has defined 154 exploration targets, 28 of which have been tested to date (18%), confirming that Soledad is a large, well-endowed mineral system with strong exploration upside. Chakana's investors are uniquely positioned as the Soledad Project provides exposure to base and precious metals. For more information on the Soledad project, please visit the website at www.chakanacopper.com. Qualified Person David Kelley, an officer, and a director of Chakana, and a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101, reviewed and approved the technical information in this news release. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD (signed) "David Kelley" David Kelley President and CEO For further information contact: Investor Relations: Info Email: info@chakanacopper.com Telephone: 720-233-2166 Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-looking Statement Advisory: This release contains forward-looking statements, including statements relating to the amendment of the Warrants. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of Chakana to be materially different from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements or information relates to, among other things, the interpretation of the nature of the mineralization at the Soledad copper-gold-silver project (the "Project"), the potential to expand the mineralization, and to develop and grow a resource within the Project, the planning for further exploration work, the ability to de-risk the potential exploration targets, and our belief in the potential for mineralization within unexplored parts of the Project. These forward-looking statements are based on management's current expectations and beliefs but given the uncertainties, assumptions and risks, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements or information. The Company disclaims any obligation to update, or to publicly announce, any such statements, events or developments except as required by law. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/197517 SOURCE: Chakana Copper Corp. EQS-News: Marley Spoon Group SE / Key word(s): Acquisition/Mergers & Acquisitions MARLEY SPOON GROUP SE: ANNOUNCES CLOSING OF STRATEGIC TRANSACTIONS TO DRIVE FUTURE MARKET CONSOLIDATION 09.02.2024 / 23:38 CET/CEST The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Marley Spoon Group SE ("Marley Spoon" or the "Company"), a leading global direct-to-consumer meal provider, closed the strategic transactions announced on January 30, 2024. With those transactions, Marley Spoon Group acquires BistroMD, a US leading doctor-designed meal service, as a first step of the previously announced growth and consolidation strategy, adding 35m in revenue (based on unaudited management reports). Furthermore, the Company entered into a strategic partnership with FreshRealm whereas FreshRealm will be the Company's partner for all US manufacturing and fulfillment operations, allowing Marley Spoon Group to operate asset-light and focusing on its market-facing direct-to-consumer business. Marley Spoon receives 22 million through its transaction with FreshRealm for the sale of certain assets. Furthermore, Marley Spoon will reduce its outstanding loan balance with Runway Growth Finance Corp. ("Runway") by 10.3, and the Company has amended its existing debt facilities with Runway, namely an extension of the interest-only period and the loan maturity date, each by 12 months, to January 2026 and June 2027, respectively. About Marley Spoon Marley Spoon Group SE, through its subsidiary Marley Spoon SE, is a global direct-to-consumer (DTC) meal-kit company. Our Vision is to "Build a better everyday, just for you, just right". We started Marley Spoon in 2014 to help our customers to cook for their families and deal with their busy lives. We also felt there should be a more sustainable way to cook at home, reducing food waste that traditional supermarket supply chains generate. Marley Spoon currently operates various brands in three regions: Australia, the United States, and Europe (Austria, Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands). Our meal-kit brands, Marley Spoon, Martha Stewart & Marley Spoon, and Dinnerly, bring pre-portioned fresh ingredients with tasty and simple recipes and other eating solutions reliably to our customers every week. Our customers just decide what to eat, when to eat, and leave behind the hassle of grocery shopping. Chefgood is our direct-to-consumer ready-to-heat (RTH) service that offers premium-priced, high-quality, healthy, and nutritious RTH meals and eating solutions for our wellness and health-focused customers. Disclaimer This announcement constitutes neither an offer to sell nor a solicitation to buy securities. Certain statements contained in this release may constitute "forward-looking statements" that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are generally identi?able by the use of the words "may", "will", "should", "plan", "expect", "anticipate", "estimate", "believe", "intend", "project", "goal" or "target" or the negative of these words or other variations on these words or comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions, forecasts, estimates, projections, opinions or plans that are inherently subject to signi?cant risks, as well as uncertainties and contingencies that are subject to change. No representation is made or will be made by Marley Spoon Group SE or any of their respective affiliates that any forward-looking statement will be achieved or will prove to be correct. The actual future business, ?nancial position, results of operations and prospects may differ materially from those projected or forecast in the forward-looking statements. Neither Marley Spoon Group SE nor any of their respective affiliates assume any obligation to update, and do not expect to publicly update, or publicly revise, any forward-looking statements or other information contained in this release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by law. 09.02.2024 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 The actress moved the court requesting that the Look Out Circular issued against her by the CBI be quashed The Bombay High Court has reserved the order on the plea submitted by Rhea Chakraborty in Sushant Singh Rajputs case. The Jalebi actress moved the court requesting that the Look Out Circular issues against her by the CBI be quashed. This also includes her father and brother. Last year in December, Rhea approached the Bombay High Court seeking suspension of a Look Out Circular (LOC) issued against her. She had stated she needed to travel to Dubai for professional commitments. The Central Bureau of Investigation had opposed relief being granted to the Jalebi actress. Advertisement Chakraborty has been facing prosecution in a drugs case following the death of her then-boyfriend and actor Sushant Singh Rajput on June 14, 2020. Her advocates Abhinav Chandrachud and Prasanna Bhangale told the court the CBI did register a FIR against the actress but never summoned her and nothing has happened in the case for the last few years. The bench of Justices Ajay Gadkari and Shyam Chandak asked them if the actress traveled abroad in these last few years. Advocate Shreeram Shirsat, appearing for CBI, said the FIR was filed in Patna and the case was being investigated by CBI in Delhi, outside the courts jurisdiction. The next hearing is on December 20. Rhea on her jail term Rhea Chakraborty has faced several criticisms on her personal front after the demise of actor Sushant Singh Rajput back in 2020. The actress was in the Byculla jail for 28 days on charges of procuring drugs for the late actor. Advertisement She said, I experienced a unique kind of love and resilience within those women. They found happiness in small things. They grabbed happiness when they got it. They know how to enjoy a moment, and they are some of the happiest people I have met. Attorney David Sherborne said Mirror Group Newspapers had agreed to pay Harrys legal costs and would make an interim payment of 400,000 pounds ($505,000) Prince Harry has reached an out-of-court settlement with a tabloid newspaper publisher that invaded his privacy with phone hacking and other illegal snooping, Harrys lawyer said Friday. Attorney David Sherborne said Mirror Group Newspapers had agreed to pay Harrys legal costs and would make an interim payment of 400,000 pounds ($505,000). Harry was awarded 140,000 pounds ($177,000) in damages in December after the judge found that phone hacking was widespread and habitual at Mirror Group Newspapers in the 1990s, and that executives at the papers covered it up. Judge Timothy Fancourt found that Harrys phone was hacked to a modest extent. Advertisement Harrys case against Mirror Group, which publishes the Daily Mirror and two other tabloids, is one of several he has launched in a campaign against the British media, which he blames for blighting his life and hounding both his late mother Princess Diana and his wife Meghan. In June, he became the first senior member of the royal family to testify in court in over a centuryduring the trial of his case against the Mirror. Harry, also known as the Duke of Sussex, wasnt in court for Fridays ruling. He traveled to London from his home in California earlier this week to visit his father King Charles III, who has been diagnosed with cancer. Harry flew back to the U.S. 24 hours later. Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Language: Hindi Directors: Amit Joshi, Aradhana Sah Cast: Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, Dimple Kapadia, Rakesh Bedi, Rajesh Kumar Seeing Shahid Kapoor back in a romantic avatar and Kriti Sanon nailing the role of a robot in Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya is indeed a fun watch. But it will definitely make you question if this is what we are heading for where AI will take over our lives. Will we very conveniently opt for custom made robots as life partners and tune them to doing things that we want them to do. Advertisement With everybody talking about AI, which is the future, the question is how safe is it going to be and for which you will have to watch Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya _._ Absolute laughter riot and Kriti Sanon looks just too perfect as robot Sifra, but what happens when you are in a relationship with a robot and you feed everything that you want her to do and she does it just the way you want it is a big question mark. The movie is written and directed by Amit Joshi. Along with Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon we see veteran actors like Dharmendra, Dimple Kapadia, Rakesh Bedi, Anubha Fatehpurla, all of them have done a fantastic job. I would say that more than Shahid, it is Kriti whose role is spot on and it is her performance which is very unconventional and she truly makes you think with her mannerisms. You can make out that there is something really amiss about her though she is very human. But is it a masses movie or not is again is a question mark. The film is ahead of our times yet relatable is what makes it stand out. Advertisement The film takes off when Aryan ( Shahid Kapoor), a robotic engineer and a compulsive bachelor plans to visit his aunt (Dimple Kapadia) in USA who is the CEO of a robotic company. Aryan falls in love with the housekeeper of her aunt. What happens when the housekeeper, Sifra ( Kriti Sanon) turns out to be a robot? Advertisement The look of the movie is beautiful where you get to see lovely houses whether it is Mumbai, Delhi or New York. Everybody in the film is impeccably dressed up whether it is the lead cast or Mausiji (Dimple Kapdia) or Dharmendra who plays the role of Shahid Kapoors grandpa. Very tastefully done up decoration of the wedding and engagement scenes and the makers have given importance to every minute details whether it is the styling, the costumes and the sets. Advertisement It is the atmosphere created by the whole family and not just the lead cast which makes the movie a hilarious watch. Sanons robotic expressions are bang on even when she turns evil. As for Shahid Kapoor he should do more romantic hero roles the way he has done here along with layered roles that he is doing. This man is truly a bright craftsman who can fit in all kinds of characters which makes him stand out. Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiyais a one-time fun watch. Advertisement Rating: 3 out of 5 WATCH the trailer of Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya movie here_:_ The star in question is Salman Khan, who made his acting debut with Biwi Ho To Aisi in 1988, and rose to stardom with Maine Pyar Kiya in 1989 Salman Khan is one of the biggest superstars in the country with a massive fan following across the globe. He made his acting debut with Biwi Ho To Aisi in 1988, and rose to stardom with Maine Pyar Kiya in 1989. He may have had many flops in his career, but post 2010s Dabangg, the tides turned and how. Advertisement He has seen multiple ups and downs in his personal life too, from a fallout with Shah Rukh Khan at Katrina Kaifs 25th birthday bash in 2008 to many other events, but his fans have always stood by him. The bond between SRK and Salman Khan In 2018, Shah Rukh appeared on the Salman Khan-hosted reality game show Dus Ka Dum, during which he reminisced his early days. Mentioning how he used to have meals at Salman Khans place, the actor went on to express his gratitude towards Salmans father Salim Khan. The first time I came to Mumbai as a struggling actor, I used to have food at Salmans place. They used to support me a lot. Salim Ji blessed me. It is because of them that I have become Shah Rukh Khan, the actor said in his statement. That was not the first time SRK had expressed his gratitude to the Khan family. During an appearance on Salman Khans show, the actor was seen saying that his entire family will remain grateful to Salman and his family for all the support and love that he has received from them. Advertisement Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan have been friends for the longest time. Despite having a major fallout in 2008, the two were seen coming back together during Salmans sister Arpita Khans wedding in 2014. The two actors have also worked in many films together like Hum Tumhare Hain Sanam, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, and Karan Arjun, besides playing cameos in each others films. Four people have died and another 250 have been hurt in Uttarakhands Haldwani after a mob went on a rampage following the demolition of an illegal madrasa and adjoining mosque in the area. The violence has prompted the administration to impose a curfew and issue shoot-at-sight orders for rioters Theres an uneasy calm in Uttarakhands Haldwani on Friday morning following a violence and turbulent night. People in the area of Banbhoolpura area in Haldwani are still reeling from the violence and deadly clashes they witnessed on Thursday night in which four people have died and over 250 are injured. Authorities have now imposed curfew in the area, with shoot-at-sight orders issued against rioters and internet services have also been shut down. Schools and education institutions will also remain shut today. Advertisement But what exactly happened in Haldwani on Thursday? Why did violence break out in the town? And what comes next for the people living there? How and why did the violence begin? The widespread violence began on Thursday over the demolition of an illegal madrasa and an adjoining mosque. Last afternoon, around 2 pm, a police team from Banbhoolpura police station arrived at Malik ka Bagicha and razed the illegal madrasa and the adjoining mosque. However, the officials were met with resistance from angry locals who tried to block the authorities from carrying out the demolition work. In fact, the crowd began pelting stones at the officials present there. At first, the authorities resorted to a mild lathi-charge of the people present at the demolition site, but that angered the crowd more, forcing the personnel to retreat to the police station. Advertisement Reports say that the mob then surrounded the police station and continued to pelt stones at the personnel. Some miscreants also hurled a petrol bomb at the police station and burnt the entire structure. Vehicles outside the police station were also set on fire, further deteriorating the law and order situation. Advertisement DGP Abhinav Kumar later was quoted as saying, Some miscreants started stone pelting and violence. The exact sequence of events that led to this kind of situation is a matter of administrative inquiry. We will check what was the cause for this kind of public anger, and if there is some conspiracy, we will look into it. Advertisement He further added that the rioting went on for three-four hours starting around 5.30 pm, and by 9 pm, the situation was brought under control. The ensuing violence has killed four people and over 250 people have been injured. Those hurt have been taken to Soban Singh Jeena Hospital for treatment, with medical authorities adding that most of the injured have suffered head and face trauma. Advertisement As chaos gripped the area, shops and stores in the main market shut down. Several factories in the area also pulled down their shutters. What do officials say? After bringing the situation under control, the local administration imposed section 144 of the The Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 in Banbhoolpura. Moreover, shoot-at-sight orders have also been issued for rioters, officials said, Advertisement When asked about reports of police using force with the locals, DGP Abhinav Kumar retorted that as per the law, the police are authorised to fire back in self-defence when faced with a violent mob that resorts to stone pelting and arson. I have been told that there were some firing incidents (from the side of the police). But we are still gathering information about the exact number of rounds fired, he was quoted as telling Indian Express. Advertisement He further said that the property damage is still being assessed and that the chief secretary and ADG Law and Order would be in Haldwani to do a proper assessment of the situation. Was the demolished structure legal or illegal? While authorities are still assessing the damage, questions are also being asked if the razed mosque and madrasa were indeed illegal. Advertisement Shakeel Ahmad, Councillor of Ward Number 31, under which the incident took place, told Indian Express that the High Court had not given a final decision in the case of removing illegal encroachment. However, this claim has been rejected by the authorities. Senior Superintendent of Police Prahlad Meena said the demolitions complied with a court order. The SSP further added that even a prior notice had been sent to the residents in the area about the demolition. Advertisement Nainital District Magistrate Vandana Singh in a press conference on Friday morning said that the action at the area only happened after the HCs order and everyone was given notice. Furthermore, she said, It is an empty property that has two structures, which is not registered as religious structure or has been given any such recognition. Some call the structure a madrasa. Advertisement In fact, a hearing was held by the Uttarakhand High Court on a PIL seeking to stop the demolition. However, the court didnt grant any relief following which the demolition exercise began. #WATCH | Uttarakhand: Security stepped up in several parts of the violence-hit area of Haldwani. Violence broke out in Banbhoolpura, Haldwani following an anti-encroachment drive yesterday. pic.twitter.com/dvVW1oGhU4 ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2024 Advertisement What next? Following the violence, the administration has imposed a curfew, ordering for people to stay at home. Furthermore, internet services have been suspended. The Uttarakhand government has also issued a high alert for the state. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami also convened an emergency meeting following which he appealed for the public to maintain peace. He stressed that anti-social elements had clashed with the police, leading to the current situation. Furthermore, additional police and central forces have been deployed to the area. #WATCH | Haldwani violence | Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami says, "In Banbhoolpura area of Haldwani, a team from the administration had gone for an anti-encroachment drive, following Court's order. Anti-social elements there entered into a brawl with the Police. A few Police https://t.co/7OgN1O22lU pic.twitter.com/hDMUWyZDjF ANI (@ANI) February 8, 2024 In a statement, the Nainital District Magistrates office has also said that losses incurred during the incident will be compensated by the rioters. The police and administration have shown patience. Our campaign against illegal encroachment is not going to stop, said the statement. Uttarakhand DGP Abhinav Kumar has vowed that they have extensive videographic evidence and in the days to come, the people behind the violence would be identified and strict action would be taken against them. With inputs from agencies The electoral race is still on in Pakistan. While Imran Khans PTI-backed Independents are still in the lead, heres how prominent candidates from Nawaz Sharif to Bilawal Bhutto Zardari are faring at the polls All of Pakistan and many parts of the world have its eyes on one thing: the election results where Nawaz Sharifs Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Imran Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-backed Independents are battling it out, with Bilawal Bhutto Zardaris Pakistan Peoples Party coming in third. As per data provided by Pakistans Election Commission, the PTI-backed candidates have won 62 seats, the PML-N have secured 46 seats and the PPP have 39 seats. Others have bagged nine seats. Advertisement As counting continues we are yet to see a clear picture on who shall win the polls heres a report on how big Pakistan political leaders are faring. Nawaz Sharif Nawaz Sharif, who is attempting to secure a fourth term as prime minister, has bagged a win from the NA-130 seat in Lahore. As per media reports, he has secured 171,024 votes, beating out PTI-backed Dr Yasmin Rashid who won 115,043 votes. Dr Rashid, former Punjab health minister, is facing a court trial in connection with the 9 May riots and has been unable to run her election campaign. However, it was not all good news for Sharif. He faced a significant defeat against independent candidate Shahzada Gastasap in NA-15 Mansehra constituency. Gastasap clinched 105,249 votes, while Nawaz managed to secure only 80,382 votes. Maryam Nawaz Like father, like daughter. The daughter of Nawaz Sharif, Maryam Nawaz, who contested from the National Assembly Constituency NA 119, has won the seat in Lahore with 83,855 votes. This is her first NA seat victory. While she secured 83,855 votes, her closest rival, PTI-backed Shehzad Farooq, clinched 68,376 votes. Advertisement Shehbaz Sharif Former prime minister and PML-N president Shehbaz Sharif has won the PP-158 seat in Lahore with 38,642 votes, according to preliminary results from the Election Commission of Pakistan. Shehbaz served as Pakistans PM after Imran Khans ouster in April 2022. He stepped down from the post last August and dissolved the coalition government with PPP. Advertisement Hamza Shehbaz PML-N leader Hamza Shehbaz, the son of Shehbaz Sharif, has bagged Lahores NA-118 seat with 1,05,960 votes. He has defeated PTI-backed independent candidate Aliya Hamza, who managed to get 1,00,803 votes. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari PPP leader Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has won the NA-196 seat in Qamber Shahdadtkot-I. He secured 85,370 votes, Dawn reported citing the provisional results by the ECP. Advertisement He is also leading from the NA-127 Lahore constituency. The young PPP leader is facing off against PML-Ns Attahullah Tarrar, PTI-backed Malik Zaheer Abbas Khokhar, and Jamaat-e-Islami (JI)s Syed Ihsan Ullah Waqas. Zardari has also won the NA-194 constituency with 131,217 votes, as per Samaa TV. The Bhutto scion is vying for the post of prime minister. He was the foreign minister in the PML(N)-PPP coalition government led by Shehbaz Sharif in 2022. Advertisement Asif Ali Zardari Former president Asif Ali Zardari won a landslide win in Shaheed Benazirabad with 1,46,989 votes, while Sardar Sher Muhammad Rind Baloch, a PTI-backed independent candidate, was the runner-up with 51,916 votes. Gohar Ali Khan Imran Khans successor, PTI leader Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, has emerged triumphant in NA-10 in Buner with 1,10,023 votes, as per data provided by the polling body in Pakistan. Awami National Partys Abdul Rauf came second with 30,302 votes. Advertisement Talha Saeed Terrorist Muhammad Hafiz Saeeds son Talha Saeed has lost from Lahores NA 122 seat, ANI reported citing Pakistani media. PTI-backed Latif Khosa won the seat with 117,109 votes, while PML-N candidate Khawaja Saad Rafique received 77,907 votes. Hafiz Saeeds son could manage only 2,024 votes. Pakistan Markazi Muslim League (PMML), the political entity of Hafiz Saeed, who is the mastermind of the deadly 26/11 attacks in Mumbai, fielded candidates for every national and provincial assembly constituency. Advertisement Fazlur Rehman PTI leader Ali Amin Gandapur thrashed the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) chief with 93,443 votes to 59,922 votes. With inputs from agencies Pakistan will get a new prime minister soon. As votes are being counted, lets take a look at how no premier in the countrys history has ever been able to complete a full tenure. Will it be different this time? Pakistan election results are delayed. The counting of votes began Thursday (8 February) evening, and the picture was expected to be clear by early Friday. However, official results for the 265 contested seats in the National Assembly, Pakistans lower house of Parliament, are yet to be announced. As per latest results, Independent candidates, some of whom are associated with Imran Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, have won 30 seats, Bilawal Bhutto Zardaris Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has secured 26 while former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharifs Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has won 21 seats, reported Al Jazeera. Advertisement As Pakistan is set to get a new prime minister soon, it is pertinent to note that none of the previous premiers have completed a full term in the countrys 77-year history. Lets take a closer look. Liaquat Ali Khan Liaquat Ali Khan was the founding Prime Minister of Pakistan, appointed by Muhammad Ali Jinnah in 1947. The Muslim League leader assumed office on 14 August. His tenure was cut short as Khan was shot dead by an Afghan in Rawalpindis Company Bagh on 16 October 1951 during a public meeting of the Muslim City League. Khawaja Nazimuddin After Liaquat Ali Khans assassination, Khawaja Nazimuddin came to power on 17 October 1951. However, he served as Pakistans PM for only one year and six months. Nazimuddin was dismissed in April 1953 by governor-general Ghulam Muhammad on charges of failure to control the widespread riots and protests in Lahore and East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). Advertisement Mohammad Ali Bogra Mohammad Ali Bogra was picked by governor-general Ghulam Muhammad as Pakistan s PM in April 1953. As per an Indian Express report, Bogra tried to curtail the powers of the governor-general by amending the India Independence Act, 1954, resulting in the dissolution of the Constituent Assembly later that year. While the Sindh High Court deemed the move illegal, the federal court overturned the decision, ruling that the Constituent Assembly was illegitimate as no constitution was finalised for six years, the newspaper report added. Advertisement Bogra was forced to resign on 11 August 1955, with his term lasting two years and three months. Chaudhri Mohammad Ali He took office in August 1955. Ali is credited with framing Pakistans Constitution in 1956, ending its dominion status and promising parity between West and East Pakistan, The Wire noted. Internal differences arose in the Muslim League and as the Cabinet saw en masse resignation, Ali was asked to step down on 12 September 1956. His term lasted for one year and one month, noted Reuters. Advertisement ALSO READ: How Pakistani politicians are unsafe in their own country Hussain Shaheed Suhrawardy The Awami Leagues Suhrawardy took over the reins from Chaudhari in 1956. He occupied the post for only 13 months as he was forced to step down by Pakistan President Iskander Mirza in 1957. Ibrahim Ismail Chundrigar Chundrigar formed a coalition government in October 1957, with the help of the Republican Party, the Krishak Sramik Party and the Nizam-i-Islam Party, according to Indian Express. Advertisement However, in less than two months, he lost the confidence of his party and allies when he attempted to reform the electoral college. Chundrigar resigned on 16 December 1957, reported Reuters. Malik Feroz Khan Noon Republican Partys Noon was Pakistans PM for less than 10 months. Although he was asked by Mirza to succeed Chundrigar, the relations between the two deteriorated as the president tried to assume full control of Pakistan. Advertisement Noon was dismissed as martial law was enforced in Pakistan on 7 October 1958. Nurul Amin After Noons removal, Pakistan saw nearly a decade of military rule. On 6 December 1971, Nurul Amin was appointed as the PM by General Yahya Khan. However, as Pakistan lost the war and Bangladesh was liberated, Yahya Khan resigned as the countrys president. He was succeeded by Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto. Amins term as the prime minister also came to an abrupt end, having lasted only for only 13 days. Advertisement Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Bhutto, the founder of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), stepped down as President following the enactment of the 1973 Constitution. He took over as Pakistans PM after securing the majority of votes in Parliament, reported Indian Express. Bhutto came back to power after winning the March 1977 elections. However, his tenure did not last long. The Pakistan National Alliance, a nine-party tie-up, accused Bhutto of rigging votes. Advertisement As violence broke out in urban areas, General Zia-ul Haq carried out a coup detat against Bhutto in July 1977. Pakistan once again came under military rule and the 1973 Constitution was suspended. The PPP founder was hanged in April 1979 at Central Jail, Rawalpindi. His sentence is still considered a judicial murder, as per the Pakistani daily newspaper The News. Advertisement Bhuttos tenure as Pakistans Prime Minister lasted for 3 years, 10 months and 21 days, reported Indian Express. Muhammad Khan Junejo General Zia finally lifted martial law in 1985. After the non-party elections, Junejo was invited by Zia to form the government. His term lasted only three years and two months with relations between him and President Zia souring during that time. Advertisement Benazir Bhutto General Zia ruled Pakistan until he died in a plane crash in 1988. After his death, elections were held in the country. Benazir Bhutto, the daughter of slain premier Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, was elected as Prime Minister on 2 December 1988. She was not only Pakistans youngest PM but also the first woman leader of a Muslim nation. Advertisement Her government was dismissed by president Ghulam Ishaq Khan in August 1990 on the charges of corruption, nepotism and other acts in contravention of the Constitution and the law, as per Indian Express. Her first tenure lasted one year and eight months. Bhutto returned to power in 1993. She was once again dismissed by the president on charges of misgovernance on 5 November 1996. This time, she served as Pakistans premier for just over three years. Nawaz Sharif Nawaz Sharif became PM for the first time in November 1990 after winning the elections. His term was also curtailed with President Ghulam Ishaq Khan dissolving the National Assembly and appointing an interim PM on 18 April 1993. Sharif moved the Supreme Court against the move, which ruled in his favour. However, due to pressure from the military, both Sharif and Ghulam Ishaq Khan resigned from their posts in July 1993, reported Indian Express. Sharif returned as Pakistans premier for a second time on 17 February 1997. He remained in power for less than three years before being overthrown in a military coup by Army Chief Pervez Musharraf in October 1999. Sharifs third tenure as PM came in June 2013 after PML-Ns victory in the elections. His stint came to an end in 2017 when Pakistans Supreme Court barred him from politics for life over graft charges related to the Panama Papers scandal. In 2019, Sharif left for London seeking medical treatment and stayed there in self-imposed exile before returning to Pakistan just last October. Three PMs between 2002-2007 Jamali served as PM during the military rule in November 2002. He resigned in June 2004 over differences with the military. Chaudhary Shujaat Hussain served as Pakistans PM for just two months in 2004. He was succeeded by Shaukat Aziz who resigned after the end of the parliamentary tenure in November 2007, reported Indian Express. Yousaf Raza Gilani Gilani came to power after the PPP won the 2008 elections. He had to step down after the Supreme Court disqualified him in 2012 on charges of contempt of court. Raja Pervaiz Ashraf completed the remaining nine-month term of the PPP government till March 2013. Imran Khan After Nawaz Sharif was disqualified by the Supreme Court in July 2017, Imran Khan won the elections next year to form a coalition government. His dispute with the military seemed to have cost him his job. The PTI leader was ousted through a no-confidence motion by the Opposition in April 2022. Shehbaz Sharif Nawaz Sharifs younger brother, Shehbaz, formed a coalition government with the PPP after Imran Khans ouster in April 2022. He stepped down in August 2023 and dissolved the government. Pakistan is currently under the rule of a caretaker government led by Anwarul Haq Kakar. Only time will tell if Pakistans new PM will be able to complete their five-year tenure, scripting history. With inputs from agencies PTI-backed Independent candidates are ahead of PML-N and PPP in the elections thus far. Experts say they could form their own government if they get a two-thirds majority or join hands with another party to form a government which would give Imran Khan a new political life Results have slowly begun trickling in for the Pakistani polls. And it looks like Independent candidates backed by Imran Khans Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) are running ahead of candidates from Nawaz Sharifs Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). Sharif, the former prime minister, was widely expected to return to the power after seemingly being backed by the establishment. Advertisement Imran, meanwhile, is languishing in prison after being convicted in multiple cases. A party must win 133 seats out of 265 in the National Assembly being contested to form the next government. But what is the status of the Independent candidates in the polls? And could they be a gamechanger? Lets take a closer look: PTI candidates take lead Provisional results released by the Election Commission of Pakistan show that thus far Independent candidates backed by the PTI have won 29 seats. PTI candidates are running as Independents after they were not allowed to use the party symbol of a cricket bat. Meanwhile, the PML-N and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) have won 27 and 18 seats respectively. Advertisement PTI leader barrister Gohar Ali Khan won NA-10 in the Buner area of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa with 110,023 votes, according to the ECP. He defeated Awami National Party candidate Abdul Rauf who came second with 30,302 votes. PTIs former speaker National Assembly Asad Qaiser also won. Advertisement Qaiser has won the NA-19 from Swabi with 115,635 votes, while JUI-Fs Fazal Ali came second with 45,567 votes. PTI-backed candidate Shahid Ahmad Khattak won the NA-38 seat from Karak. PTI-backed candidates Zulfiqar Khan and Yousif Khan have won the NA-34 and NA-36 seats from Nowshera II and Hangu/Orakzai respectively. PTI-backed candidate Mujahid Ali has won the NA-21 seat from Mardan I. PTI-backed candidate Shahrah Khan Tarakai has won the NA-20 seat from Swabi II. Advertisement Takai, who received 122,965 votes, easily defeated Awami National Partys Waris Khan who got 47,535 votes. Meanwhile, JUI-Fs Abdur Rahim Khan came third with 19,528 votes. PTI-backed candidate Ali Asghar Khan has won the NA-16 seat from Abbottabad I. PTI-backed candidate Sahibzada Sibghatullah has won the NA-5 seat in Upper Dir with 37,484 votes. PTI-backed candidate Mehboob Shah won the NA-7 seat in Lower Dir with 20,346 votes. Advertisement PTI-backed candidate Junaid Akbar has won NA-9 in Malakand with 113,513 votes. PTI-backed Muhammad Nawaz Khan wins NA-13 seat from Battagram. PTI-backed candidate Sheikh Waqas Akram has won from Jhangs NA-109 constituency, while Muhammad Arshad Sahi, also a PTI-affiliated hopeful, won the NA-111 seat from Nankana Sahib. PTI-backed candidate Usman Ali has won the NA-142 seat in Sahiwal II. PTI-backed Independent candidates Saleem Rehman and Suhail Sultan have won NA-3 and NA-4 in Swat respectively. Advertisement PTI-backed independent candidate Anwar Taj won the NA-24 seat from Charsadda. Syed Shah Ahad Ali Shah, another PTI-backed Independent, beat PTI-Parliamentarians Pervez Khattak to win from Nowsheras NA-33. PTI-backed independent candidate Amjad Ali Khan has won the NA-2 seat in Swat-I. PTI-backed candidate Muhammad Atif has won NA-22 in Mardan II. PTI-backed candidate Fazal Muhammad Khan has won NA-25 Charsadda II. PTI-backed candidate Waseem Qadir clinched victory in NA-121 Lahore V. PTI-backed candidate Fazal Khan also won NA-25 Charsadda. Advertisement PTI-backed independent candidates Muhammad Abdul Salam and Sultan Room have won their seats from PK-58 Mardan and PK-9 Swat. The Election Commission of Pakistan announced the winners of two seats for the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provincial Assembly. The commission said that Independent candidate Samiullah Khan won 18,888 votes, while Independent candidate Fazal Hakeem Khan took 25,330 votes. Independent candidate Ali Shah won Swats PK-4 constituency. PTI-backed candidate Sher Ali Afridi won in Peshawars PK-77 constituency. Advertisement PTI-affiliated candidate Shandana Gulzar won in Peshawars NA-30. PTI-backed Independent candidate Riaz Khan has won Buners PK-25 constituency. PTI-backed independent Hameedur Rahman prevailed in Bajaurs PK-19 constituency. PTI-backed candidate Ali Khan Jadoon took the NA 17 Abbottabad seat. PTI-backed independent Zubair Khan emerged triumphant in PK-34 Battagram. PTI-backed candidate Saleem Rehman was victorious in Swats NA-3. PTI-backed Independent candidate Iftikharullah Jan won in PK-64 Charsadda III. Advertisement Meanwhile, Rehana Dar claimed the returning officer in her constituency was not letting her enter the polling station. PTI-backed candidate Basharat Raja in Rawalpindis NA-55 constituency claimed a difference between Form 45 and Form 47 results. He claimed he won by a margin of 50,000 seats and that his opponent did not win from any polling station in the entire constituency. Advertisement Khan in a statement also claimed that the PTI has won over 150 National Assembly seats and is in a position to form governments in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces. He urged the ECP to announce all results without any further delay. Meanwhile, ex-PTI leader and defence minister Pervaiz Khattak lost his seat. Advertisement What about PML-N and PPP? For the PML-N, Sharif defeated PTI-backed Independent Dr Yasmin Rashid by a massive margin of 56,000 votes. Sharif received 171,024 votes compared to Rashids 115,043 votes. Sharifs younger brother and ex-premier Shehbaz Sharif also won. Sharifs son Hamza Shehbaz won NA-118 in Lahore-II with 105,960 votes. Hamza defeated Aliya Hamza Malik a PTI-backed Independent candidate, by 5,000 votes. Sharifs daughter Maryam Nawaz emerged victorious in the NA-119 seat in Lahore. Maryam, who received 83,855 votes, defeated PTI-backed Shehzad Farooq who got 68,376 votes. All four family members scored victories from Lahore, their home and partys stronghold. Meanwhile, PPP leader and former president Asif Ali Zardari has won the NA-207 seat from Shaheed Benazirabad with 146,989 votes. Zardari defeated PTI-backed Independent candidate Sardar Sher Muhammad Rind Baloch, who got 51,916 votes. Zardaris son and PPP chief Bilawal Bhutto has won the NA-196 seat in Qamber Shahdadtkot-I with 85,370 votes. Could this be a gamechanger? NDTV quoted PTIs chief organiser Omar Ayub Khan as saying that Independent candidates could form their own government if they get a two-thirds majority. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf-backed independent candidates have the ability to form the next federal government with a two-thirds majority, he said in a video statement released to media. The outlet said Independents can also ally with one of the other parties to form a coalition regime. The Economic Times noted that a new government could also challenge Imrans jail terms and void his ban on holding office and take part in future polls. PML-N leader Ishaq Dar, an aide to Sharif, is perhaps already considering a unity government. Dar said his party may form a coalition government with Independents, as per Geo TV. I am confident that we will form a government, Dar said. He added that his party would step aside if any clear winner emerged. Experts say this has thrown up a surprise. There was a sense of certainty about the outcome, Sarah Khan, an assistant professor of political science at YaleUniversity, told AFP. That sense of certainty got upset very early on, she added. Its definitely not the foregone conclusion that anybody thought it might be. Michael Kugelman, director of the South Asia Institute at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars in Washington, told AFP the delay suggests that the powers that be are trying to create an environment that allows them to more easily be involved in the electoral process. Vote tampering and rigging fears are rife, and for good reason, he said more bluntly on X. Analysts have also predicted there may be no clear winner, adding to the woes of a country struggling to recover from an economic crisis while it grapples with rising militant violence in a deeply polarised political environment. A timely announcement of the results, leading to a smooth formation of a new government will reduce policy and political uncertainty, Moodys Investors Service said. This is crucial for the country that is facing very challenging macroeconomic conditions. More than 650,000 army, paramilitary and police personnel were deployed to provide security on Thursday. There were a total of 51 attacks nationwide, the army said, killing a dozen people including 10 security force members fewer than in 2018, when dozens were killed. Thursdays election had a similar air to that poll, but with the tables turned. Then, it was Sharif who was disqualified from running because of a string of convictions for graft, while Khan swept to power with the backing of the military, as well as genuine support. The history of Pakistans elections is checkered with allegations of rigging but also favouritism, said Bilal Gilani, executive director of polling group Gallup Pakistan. Its a managed democracy that the military runs, he said. Results delayed to rig outcome PTI claimed that it won the elections while alleging that results were being delayed to rig the outcome. In a statement on X from the PTI official handle, the party stated that it won more than 150 NA seats out of 265 open for contest as per the data received in Form 45s, which are the primary source of election results at the lowest level and show the votes for each candidate at each polling station. Copies of these forms have been collected by PTI candidates polling agents, which show them winning by a large majority. According to independent reports, PTI has won well over 150 National Assembly seats & is in a solid position to form government in Federal, Punjab & KP (Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa), with a clear majority, it stated. However, manipulation of the results in the late hours of the night is an utter disgrace & a brazen theft of the nations mandate. The people of Pakistan vehemently reject the rigged results. The world is watching, it asserted. In another statement, PTI alleged that its mandate was being stolen. Let the world know that the clear and overwhelming mandate of the people of Pakistan is being stolen. Despite unprecedented pre-poll rigging & oppression, there was a record, massive turnout on polling day, it stated The party said that every independent candidate backed by it was winning by a landslide. It also said that Returning Officers are now manipulating the results using Form 47, which is a summary of Form 45 from each polling station. Furthermore, there are reports of the polling agents getting abducted & forced to sign fake Form 45s, it said. It also referred to unspecified reports to claim that PTI nominated candidates (were) losing suddenly in various constituencies now, after they had already won by a clear majority. In another statement, the party asked PML-N leader Sharif, who was the favourite to win as he was backed by the powerful Army, to concede defeat. Show some grace @NawazSharifMNS, accept the defeat! The people of Pakistan will never accept you. This is a golden opportunity to regain some credibility as a Democrat. Daylight robbery is going to be rejected massively by Pakistan! it said in a statement on X. The ECP has remained mum despite the PTIs claims. PML-N stakes claim to single-largest party However, the PML-N has staked its claim to victory. Party leader Dar said, Based on data compiled in PMLN Election Cell and results already in the public domain, PMLN has emerged as the single largest political party in the National Assembly and a clear majority party in Punjab Assembly. He also said that premature and biased speculations must be avoided as the country awaits the official complete results from ECP. The caretaker interior ministry has said that it had reviewed the media and the publics concerns about the late processing of the results and attributed it to lack of communication, which was the outcome of mobile services suspension taken to ensure a peaceful election process. It said the situation was now satisfactory and results would be announced accordingly. The long delay in the announcement of results by the ECP created a lot of confusion. Karachi, the biggest city in Pakistan, witnessed the most confusion where the Muttahida Qaumi Movement claimed it had already won 18 out of the 22 National Assembly seats from the city but this is yet to be verified. Their rival parties the Jamaat-e-Islami and PPP both negated the MQM claim. The excruciating delay in announcing the results pushed parties to the edge, with allegations of fraud being hurled along with demands for early results. PML-N leader Maryam Aurangzeb said that the results are changing as they come in, stressing that preliminary results cannot be relied upon to say whos winning from a said constituency. We were in the lead [when> suddenly the results stopped coming in, she said while calling on the ECP to announce the results as soon as possible. Separately, the estranged PML-N leader and ex-premier Shahid Khaqan Abbasi said that the people of Pakistan have spoken and warned that any attempt to manipulate their mandate will result in unsustainable chaos. The heat of the electoral process has passed; it is time to allow the country to healThe political leadership Mian Nawaz Sharif, Asif Ali Zardari, Imran Khan, Maulana Fazlur Rehman and others must rise above petty politics and work together to confront the immense challenges our country is facing; they need to recognise that history is not kind to selfish politicians, he urged. The cellphone and internet services suspended before elections were gradually restored during the night. In total 266 National Assembly seats were up for grabs in Thursdays election out of 336, but polling was postponed on at least one seat after a candidate was killed in a gun attack in Bajaur. Another 60 seats are reserved for women and 10 for minorities and are allotted to the winning parties based on proportional representation. Another 593 seats of the four provincial assemblies, out of a total 749, were also open for contest but the ECP delayed polls on at least three seats, two in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and one in Punjab, after two candidates died and one was killed. With inputs from agencies PV Narasimha Rao was a transformative PM who pioneered Indias liberalisation process in the early 90s, while Chaudhary Charan Singh who also served as PM was known as King of the Jats. MS Swaminathan was an agricultural icon and the Father of the Green Revolution PV Narasimha Rao, Chaudhary Charan Singh and MS Swaminathan three new recipients of the Bharat Ratna The Narendra Modi government on Friday announced Bharat Ratnas for PV Narasimha Rao, Chaudhary Charan Singh andMS Swaminathan. Rao and Singh are former prime ministers, while Swaminathan was known as the Father of the Green Revolution. Advertisement Lets take a closer look at all three PV Narasimha Rao Rao was born in 1921 in Andhra Pradeshs Karimnagar. As per NDTV, he went to Osmania University in Hyderabad, Bombay University and Nagpur University. Rao was Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh in early 1970s. He also a slew of portfolios including external affairs, defence, home and HRD in the Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi governments. Rao made history by becoming first politician from outside the Nehru-Gandhi family to head a government at the Centre for a full five-year term. He also pioneered Indias famous liberalisation process in the early 90s in India with then finance minister Manmohan Singh by his side. However, it wasnt smooth sailing after he left the Prime Ministers chair in 1996. Advertisement Rao faced charges in three criminal cases including bribing MPs to secure a majority in the Lok Sabha. However, he was acquitted in all the three cases. Rao passed away in December 2004 at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences. He suffered from multiple ailments and had a history of heart issues. Modi wrote on X, Advertisement Delighted to share that our former Prime Minister, Shri PV Narasimha Rao Garu, will be honoured with the Bharat Ratna. As a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao Garu served India extensively in various capacities. He is equally remembered for the work he did as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Union Minister, and as a Member of Parliament and Legislative Assembly for many years. His visionary leadership was instrumental in making India economically advanced, laying a solid foundation for the countrys prosperity and growth." Advertisement Narasimha Rao Garus tenure as Prime Minister was marked by significant measures that opened India to global markets, fostering a new era of economic development. Furthermore, his contributions to Indias foreign policy, language and education sectors underscore his multifaceted legacy as a leader who not only steered India through critical transformations but also enriched its cultural and intellectual heritage. Advertisement Charan Singh Singh was born in 1902 in Uttar Pradeshs Meerut. As per NDTV, Singh first got elected to the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly from Chhaprauli in 1937. Singh would go on to represent the constituency in 1946, 1952, 1962 and 1967. Singh, who hailed from the Jat community, was a socialist who enjoyed strong support among farmers. Advertisement One of the leading politicians of his era, Singh would become Uttar Pradesh chief minister in 1967 and 1970. Singh served as Indias prime minister between July 1979 and January 1980. Nicknamed King of the Jats, Singh remained an enigma to the end, as per India Today. Advertisement A man of fiercely-held principles and ideology, Charan Singh was also the master manipulator, willing to switch sides at a moments notice if it suited his political ambitions, the piece noted. Singh passed away in 1987. Bharat Ratna to Charan Singh dedicated to his incomparable contribution to country, the prime minister wrote on X. MS Swaminathan The Father of Indias Green revolution was born in 1925. As per NDTV, Swaminathan earned a BSc degree in Zoology from Thiruvananthapurams Maharajas College and Agricultural Sciences from the Coimbatore Agricultural College. Advertisement As per Indian Express, Swaminathan initially cleared the civil services exam before deciding to dive into the field of agriculture. Swaminathan would go on to do an MSc in Agricultural Sciences (specialising in genetics and plant breeding) from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), and a PhD from the prestigious Cambridge University. Advertisement Swaminathan was a part of every key initiative connected to food security and agriculture in India in the 1960s and 1970s. Advertisement As per I_ndian Express,_ Swaminathan would serve at several high profile institutions including as independent chairman of the Food and Agricultural Organisation Council (1981-85), president of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (1984-90), president of the World Wide Fund for Nature (India) from 1989-96 and the director general of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). He also served in the Rajya Sabha from 2007 to 2013. Swaminathan passed away in September 2023 at the age of 98. At the time of his death, he had received 84 honorary doctorate degrees from universities around the world. He was also a Fellow of many of the leading scientific academies including the Royal Society of London and the US National Academy of Sciences. Advertisement He is survived by three daughters including Dr Dr Soumya Swaminathan, formerly chief scientist of the World Health Organisation. Swaminathan made monumental contributions to country in agriculture and farmers welfare, Modi said on X. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture and made outstanding efforts in modernising it, the prime minister said. It is a matter of immense joy that the Government of India is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dr. MS Swaminathan Ji, in recognition of his monumental contributions to our nation in agriculture and farmers welfare. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture during challenging times and made outstanding efforts towards modernizing Indian agriculture. We also recognise his invaluable work as an innovator and mentor and encouraging learning and research among several students. Dr Swaminathans visionary leadership has not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured the nations food security and prosperity. He was someone I knew closely and l always valued his insights and inputs. With inputs from agencies Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Abhishek Ghosalkar was shot dead in Mumbais suburban area of Borivali on Thursday during a Facebook live, allegedly by his rival Mauris Noronha, who later shot himself fatally. The duo had personal enmity but the live session was to clarify that they ended their bitterness On Thursday, Abhishek Ghosalkar, a former Shiv Sena corporator, and a prominent ex-MLAs son, was shot dead over a personal dispute in Mumbais northern suburb of Borivali (West). After being taken to a local hospital, Ghosalkar was pronounced dead. The shocking incident occurs days after a BJP MLA was caught on camera firing at an Eknath Shinde faction leader inside a police station at Ulhasnagar raising questions over Maharashtras law and order situation. Advertisement Heres all we know about it. The Facebook-live murder Abhishek Ghosalkar, 41, was shot dead in Borivali on Thursday evening during a social media live, allegedly by his old rival Mauris Noronha, 49, who later shot himself fatally. The entire incident, which was live-streamed on Facebook, took place in Noronhas office. Noronha began the Facebook live by saying, God bless you all, while seated next to Ghosalkar. The Uddhav Sena leader said, Yes, God bless you, and then remarked, Some people might be surprised seeing us together live. Noronha added, Today we came together for the good of the people of the IC colony. As Ghosalkar was explaining during the live session that they had come together with an amazing idea for the residents of IC Colony, Noronha left his seat only to return and take forward what Ghosalkar was saying. He said, By the grace of God, something good will come, and added that they would be giving sarees from his office. Noronha again leaves his seat for a few moments. Since we are united now, we will work for the people, Ghosalkar continues. Advertisement It is very important that whatever we do we do it for the good of people. Abhishek Bhai is so busy, he is leaving tomorrow. I made him wait for more than half an hour with one pledge in mind how can we serve the IC colony, Noronha says as he returns to continue the live. This is the beginning. This is our New Year resolution.we will go outside and we will start, Ghosalkar said as bullets began to rain down on him. Advertisement The viral video of the incident showed Ghosalkar being shot in the abdomen and shoulder. There are also three additional gunshots audible in the video. A senior police official told news agency PTI that Abhishek Ghosalkar was hit by four bullets. Mauris Noronha, who used an illegal pistol for the crime, then shot himself once, he added. Advertisement When police arrived, Abhishek Ghosalkar reportedly was alive, as per Hindustan Times. Both the accused and the alleged assailant were taken to Karuna Hospital in Borivali in critical condition where they succumbed to their injuries. Personal enmity Ghosalkar and Noronha had personal enmity but the Facebook live was to clarify that they have come together ending their bitterness for the betterment of the IC Colony area in Borivali, an official told PTI. Advertisement The two had just reconciled, and it has been reported that Abhishek was invited to an event at Noronhas office, when the latter is said to have shot Ghosalkar before taking his own life. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Mauris Noronha, a poker player, had a good reputation for helping thousands of poor people. He was recently back in Mumbai from Los Angeles. His plans to run in the next Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections were derailed when Abhishek Ghosalkar opposed his candidacy, according to another report by Hindustan Times. Advertisement The matter worsened in 2022 when the 49-year-old was arrested by the MHB Colony police on charges of raping, blackmailing, cheating, and threatening a 48-year-old homemaker to pay Rs 88 lakh since 2014. Suspecting that Abhishek Ghosalkar was the cause of his legal issues, Noronho allegedly devised a plan and shot Ghosalkar several times before ending his own life. Advertisement In a post on X, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut claimed that Shinde asked Noronha to join the Shinde-led Shiv Sena after they met four days prior at the chief ministers official residence, Varsha. Raut also called for the resignation of Deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis. Advertisement One person arrested In this case, two FIRsone for murder and the other for suicidehave been filed. The Mumbai Polices Crime Branch has taken over the investigation into this tragic incident. Advertisement Following the shooting of the Shiv Sena UBT leader, Mumbai police have made one arrest, according to NDTV. Mehul Parikh, the individual who was arrested, was reportedly present at the scene when the shootings happened. In the live stream, Noronha stands up to greet Mehul Parikh. The shootings take place soon after this. The police are looking into if Parikh was aware of the incident beforehand or if he had any involvement in it. Advertisement DCP (crime branch) Raj Tilak Roushan told ANI that (forensic) samples are being collected and the matter is being investigated from all angles. About Abhishek Ghosalkar Ghosalkar was a former Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) corporator from Shiv Sena UBT led by Uddhav Thackeray. He also served as the director of the Mumbai District Central Co-operative Bank. Advertisement The son of former Shiv Sena MLA from Dahisar Vinod Ghosalkar was elected as a corporator in 2012 from Ward number 1 in the BMC. After the split in the Sena, Ghosalkar, a resident of Dahisars Kandarpada area, decided to join with Uddhav Thackeray-led Sena. He was considered close to Aaditya Thackeray and well-known for solving citizens issues. He tied the knot with Tejasvee Darekar in 2013. Lawlessness like never before Aaditya Thackeray, the leader of the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray), criticised the Maharashtra administration led by Ekanth Shinde on Thursday night for the killing of Sena corporator Abhishek Ghosalkar, claiming that the state is experiencing lawlessness like never before. Maharashtra has seen lawlessness like never before. It is shocking beyond words to see the law and order situation fail, as it has today. Does the system exist at all to protect the common man? Does the fear of the law exist? Administration has fully crumbled to being absent, he said. Maharashtra has seen lawlessness like never before. It is shocking beyond words to see the law and order situation fail, as it has today. Does the system exist at all to protect the common man? Does the fear of the law exist? Administration has fully crumbled to being absent. Aaditya Thackeray (@AUThackeray) February 8, 2024 Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi also slammed the state government, by saying, Absolutely heartbroken and have no words to express the sadness I feel for the blatant disregard for law and order in Mumbai. Shame on the illegitimate government , how many more bali(s) would satisfy your hunger for power? Maharashtra neither will forgive, nor forget. If Mumbai has no rule of law, then what can one say of the state of Maharashtra? The lust for power has seen the loss of safety in the state. Goons at the helm who stole to be in power will only pride itself in goondaraj, she added in another tweet. If Mumbai has no rule of law, then what can one say of the state of Maharashtra? The lust for power has seen the loss of safety in the state. Goons at the helm who stole to be in power will only pride itself in goondaraj. Priyanka Chaturvedi (@priyankac19) February 8, 2024 Congress leader Supriya Shrinate questioned Maharashtras law and order situation, claiming that it had crumbled. What is happening in Maharashtra? Shiv Sena (Uddhav) leader Abhishek Ghosalkar was shot dead with three bullets during Facebook Live in Dahisar, Mumbai. Abhishek is the son of Shiv Sena leader Vinod Ghosalkar who was an MLA. Just two days ago, BJP MLA Ganpat Gaikwad had fired 4 bullets at Eknath Shinde Sena city chief Mahesh Gaikwad at a police station in Ulhasnagar, Maharashtra. The law and order situation of this triple-engine government of Eknath Shinde - Devendra Fadnavis - Ajit Pawar has collapsed, she said. Indian Youth Congress (IYC) president Srinivas BV asked, If this is not Jungleraj, then what is? Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, speaking about the incident, told the media, The entire incident of UBT leader Abhishek Ghosalkar being shot dead and accused killing himself is serious and saddening No one should politicise this incident. The investigation is underway #WATCH | Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis says, "The entire incident of UBT leader Abhishek Ghosalkar being shot dead & accused killing himself is serious & saddening...No one should politicize this incident. The investigation is underway..." pic.twitter.com/igkU0XwPi0 ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2024 Firing at Shinde Sena leader in Ulhasnagar Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Ganpat Gaikwad allegedly opened fire on Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde) faction leader Mahesh Gaikwad on Friday night over a land dispute in Ulhasnagar, which is close to Mumbai. According to Livemint, the incident occurred inside the Hill Line Police Station. Five bullets struck Mahesh Gaikwad and one of his supporters, an eyewitness informed the media. Sena leader Mahesh Gaikwad was taken to Thanes Jupiter hospital in a critical condition. An FIR was filed and Gaikwad was arrested. With inputs from agencies A report by Special Counsel Robert Hur has criticised US president Joe Biden for the way he handled classified documents, but said that criminal charges werent warranted. The over 300-page document also raised questions about the 81-year-old American leaders memory United States president Joe Bidens campaign team is heaving a sigh of relief. Thats because the special counsel investigating the presidents handling of classified documents has concluded that no criminal charges are warranted in the matter. In a 345-page report, Special Counsel Robert Hur a well-respected former US Attorney stated that while Biden had wilfully retained and disclosed classified materials after his vice presidency, he would not be criminally prosecuted, as at trial, Biden would likely present himself to a jury, as he did during our interview of him, as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory. Advertisement But analysts observe that the report, while a relief from a legal standpoint, is actually damning for the president ahead of the 2024 presidential elections, as it paints a harsh portrait of his conduct and mental faculties. We take a closer look at what the report entailed and how it affects Biden and his ongoing campaign. Whats the classified documents case? Special Counsel Robert Hur on Thursday released his report on the matter of handling of classified documents by Joe Biden during his vice-presidency. For those who dont remember, between November 2022 and January 2023, approximately 30 classified documents were discovered by President Joe Bidens attorneys in his former office at the Penn Biden Center in Washington, DC, and in his personal residence in Wilmington, Delaware, dating to his time in the Senate and his vice presidency in the Obama administration. Advertisement The first set was discovered in November 2022 in a locked closet at the Penn Biden Center and the second set was found at the presidents personal residence in Delaware between December 2022 and January 2023. On 14 November 2022, Attorney General Merrick Garland announced an investigation in the matter and Robert K Hur was appointed as special counsel to investigate possible unauthorised removal and retention of classified documents or other records. Advertisement What are the findings from Hurs report? On Thursday, Special Counsel Hur released an extensive report in which he determined that President Biden had carelessly handled classified materials, but he would not be criminally charged on the same. One of the reports main focus was that Biden had a faulty and unreliable memory a fact that the Republicans have emphasised on in the past too. Advertisement The report said that Biden wilfully took classified materials but probably would not be convicted by a jury because they would see him as a well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory. The report says Biden could not remember the years he served as vice president or when his son Beau Biden died and even was incorrect in his rememberances of the Afghanistan conflict while he served in office with Barack Obama. Advertisement He did not remember when he was vice president, forgetting on the first day of the interview when his term ended (if it was 2013 when did I stop being vice president?), and forgetting on the second day of the interview when his term began, the report said. It added: He did not remember, even within several years, when his son Beau died. Advertisement The report also stated that the documents found in Bidens possession, were indeed, very highly-classified material. As per the report, investigators found notebooks in Bidens possession which contained handwritten notes from meetings with Obama and senior administration officials, as well as meetings about foreign adversaries and counterterrorism strategy. What was perhaps one of the most surprising parts of the report was the way in which the classified documents were kept. The files were discovered near a collapsed dog crate, a dog bed, a Zappos box, an empty bucket, a broken lamp wrapped with duct tape, potting soil, and synthetic firewood. Advertisement Why Hur decided not to charge Biden? Hur has written in his report that owing to Bidens memory gaps and his representation to a jury, he chose not to criminally prosecute the president. For instance, Hur said that the memory gaps that Biden had would serve him well if the matter went to trial. In a case where the government must prove that Biden knew he had possession of the classified Afghanistan documents after the vice presidency and chose to keep those documents, knowing he was violating the law, we expect that at trial, his attorneys would emphasise these limitations in his recall, the special counsel wrote. Advertisement Moreover, the way in which he stored the documents also matters. A reasonable juror could conclude that this is not where a person intentionally stores what he supposedly considers to be important classified documents, critical to his legacy. Rather, it looks more like a place a person stores classified documents he has forgotten about or is unaware of, the report read. Advertisement Hur also made a distinction between Biden and Trumps case on the same matter. He credits Biden for immediately handing over the documents to investigators after he found them. However, Trump was contrasting in style. Most notably, after being given multiple chances to return classified documents and avoid prosecution, Trump allegedly did the opposite. According to the indictment, he not only refused to return the documents for many months, but he also obstructed justice by enlisting others to destroy evidence and then to lie about it. Advertisement How did Biden react? While the report absolved Biden of criminal liability, its not a pretty picture for the president. There are already concerns about his age and his mental capabilities , and the report only furthers this worry. Shortly after the report was made public, Biden addressed the nation and slammed it for questioning his memory. In angry and fiery remarks, Biden said: My memory is fine. Advertisement He added, Theres reference that I dont remember when my son died. How in the hell dare he raise that? I dont need anyone to remind me when he passed away, Biden said of his son, who passed away from brain cancer in 2015. Bidens legal team has also written in a letter to Hur, We do not believe that the reports treatment of President Bidens memory is accurate or appropriate. The report uses highly prejudicial language to describe a commonplace occurrence among witnesses: a lack of recall of years-old events, the lawyers wrote. How has Trump and Republicans reacted? Donald Trump too is unhappy with the report. He took to his social media platform and posted: TWO-TIERED SYSTEM OF JUSTICE AND UNCONSTITUTIONAL SELECTIVE PROSECUTION. He further added that Bidens case was 100 times different and more severe than mine, adding: I did nothing wrong, and I cooperated far more. Nikki Haley, Trumps remaining Republican primary challenger, said on social media that the findings represented a double standard and used the report to attack both her primary opponent and Biden. If Bidens defence is old age and forgetfulness, Trump can easily make the same claim, she wrote. Trump should quickly hire Bidens lawyers. With inputs from agencies As per the seat-sharing agreement, in the Lok Sabha polls 2024, RLD will be contesting on two seats - Baghpat and Bijnor Rashtriya Lok Dal chief Jayant Singh Friday said he cant say no to alliance with BJP-led NDA. His remarks came moments after it was announced that his grandfather and former PM Chaudhary Charan Singh will be conferred with Bharat Ratna. Is there any doubt? How can I refuse today? Jayant said responding to a media query on speculations of him joining the NDA. Advertisement #WATCH | When asked if he is ready to join hands with BJP-NDA, RLD chief Jayant Chaudhary says, "Koi kasar rehti hai? Aaj main kis muh se inkaar karoon aapke sawalon ko." pic.twitter.com/6dTo21wzk6 ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2024 Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Friday, announced that former prime ministers PV Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh, as well as agriculture scientist MS Swaminathan will be honoured with the Bharat Ratna. Advertisement Moments after PM Modis announcement, Jayant Singh took to micro-blogging site X (formerly Twitter) where he wrote in Hindi, Dil jeet liya which roughly translates to won hearts. Advertisement The move by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to confer Bharat Ratna to Chaudhary Charan Singh is being seen as the partys outreach to the Jat community. RLD-BJP seat sharing According to News18, as per the seat-sharing agreement, in the Lok Sabha polls 2024, RLD will be contesting on two seats - Baghpat and Bijnor. Advertisement A report by India Today said RLD has also been promised a Rajya Sabha seat. The move is seen as a big blow to the Congress-led INDI Alliance ahead of the Lok Sabha elections 2024. A big message across the country Meanwhile, addressing a press conference on Friday, Jayant Singh said PM Modi understands the sentiments and character of the nation. Advertisement Talking about seats or votes will make this day less importantWhen I am congratulating and PM Modi has given a decision which proves he understands the basic sentiments and character of the nation. He further said it was a big day and an emotional moment for him. I want to thank the President, government & PM Modi because this was part of his visionThree awards have been given. The sentiments of the people are connected with this decision, Singh added. Advertisement #WATCH | Chaudhary Charan Singh, PV Narasimha Rao Garu and M S Swaminathan conferred with the Bharat Ratna. RLD chief Jayant Chaudhary says, "It is a big day & an emotional moment for me. I want to thank the President, government & PM Modi because this was part of his pic.twitter.com/NfMaaprMZT ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2024 Advertisement PM Modi did what previous govts couldnt What decision the previous governments could take till today has been boldly taken by this government because of PM Modis vision and dedication. I would like to once again express my gratitude to PM Modi-led government for encouraging the people who arent part of the mainstream, the RLD chief said. Advertisement #WATCH | RLD chief Jayant Chaudhary says, "What previous governments could not do till today has been completed by PM Modi's vision. I would like to once again express my gratitude to PM Modi's govt for encouraging the people who aren't part of the mainstream..." pic.twitter.com/SydlLmBRzO ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2024 Advertisement Jayant Singh-led RLD has a strong base in Uttar Pradesh, especially in the Jat-dominated region. Advertisement With the elections round the corner, the BJP wants to strengthen its base in the state to maximise the seats, especially in western Uttar Pradesh. Apart from the Jat issue, Jayant Singh can also help the government negate the impact of farmers protest and the wrestlers agitation. With inputs from agencies Jaishankar would address the inaugural session of the Indian Ocean Conference, along with Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Australian Foreign Minister Wong and her Singaporean counterpart Vivian Balakrishnan. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday discussed the bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership, the Indo-Pacific region and the situation in West Asia with his Australian counterpart Penny Wong. Jaishankar is in the Australian city of Perth to attend a two-day conference on the Indian Ocean beginning Friday. Delighted to meet FM @SenatorWong of Australia in Perth today as we gather for the 7th Indian Ocean Conference. Good exchange on our comprehensive strategic partnership and convergence on matters related to the Indian Ocean. Also discussed the Indo-Pacific, situation in West Asia and other regional and global topics, Jaishankar posted on X along with some photographs of the meeting. Advertisement Delighted to meet FM @SenatorWong of Australia in Perth today as we gather for the 7th Indian Ocean Conference. Good exchange on our comprehensive strategic partnership and convergence on matters related to the Indian Ocean. Also discussed the Indo-Pacific, situation in West pic.twitter.com/hWuZ6ldbkL Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) February 9, 2024 Jaishankar would address the inaugural session of the Indian Ocean Conference, along with Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Australian Foreign Minister Wong and her Singaporean counterpart Vivian Balakrishnan. Advertisement The Indian Ocean Conference is a flagship consultative forum for countries in the region, organised annually by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in association with the India Foundation. The seventh edition of the conference is being held in Perth on February 9 and 10 in association with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade of the Australian government along with Singapores S Rajaratnam School of International Studies and Perth-US Asia Centre, the MEA said in a statement on Thursday in New Delhi ahead of Jaishankars travel to the Australian city. Advertisement The theme of this edition of the conference is Towards a Stable and Sustainable Indian Ocean.The conference will bring together delegations led by ministers from over 22 countries and senior officials from 16 countries and six multilateral organisations, the MEA said.The conference will also witness the participation of over 400 social and corporate leaders, policy practitioners, scholars, professionals, and media personnel from about 40 countries, it said. Advertisement Since its debut in 2016 in Singapore, the Indian Ocean Conference has played an important role in bringing together countries and principal maritime partners of the region on a common platform to deliberate upon the prospects of regional cooperation for Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR), it added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced to honour former prime ministers PV Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh with the Bharat Ratna Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced to confer former prime ministers PV Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh with the Bharat Ratna. Delighted to share that our former Prime Minister, Shri PV Narasimha Rao Garu, will be honoured with the Bharat Ratna. As a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao Garu served India extensively in various capacities. He is equally remembered for the work he did as pic.twitter.com/lihdk2BzDU Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 9, 2024 Advertisement pic.twitter.com/gB5LhaRkIv Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 9, 2024 About Chaudhary Charan Singh Charan Singh served as Indias fifth prime minister from 1979 to 1980. Hailing from Noorpur in Uttar Pradeshs Meerut, Singh has also served as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh and the Home Minister of India. He was a strong advocate for the cause of farmers and was the Minister for Agriculture and Forests (1962-63) in UPs former CM Sucheta Kripalanis Ministry. Advertisement Be it the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh or the Home Minister of the country and even as an MLA, he always gave impetus to nation building. He also stood firm against the Emergency. His dedication to our farmer brothers and sisters and his commitment to democracy during the Emergency is inspiring to the entire nation, PM Modi said. Advertisement About PV Narasimha Rao The ninth prime minister of India, PV Narasimha Rao has been credited for heralding important economic reforms in the country. He has also held important portfolios including the Ministry of Law and Information, Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh and General Secretary of the All India Congress Committee. Rao also served as Indias External Affairs Minister from January 14, 1980 to July 18, 1984. Advertisement Narasimha Rao Garus tenure as Prime Minister was marked by significant measures that opened India to global markets, fostering a new era of economic development, PM Modi said as he made the announcements on X, formerly Twitter. Reaction on PM Modis announcement Hailing PM Modis announcement, Rashtriya Lok Dal Chief Jayant Singh said, Dil Jeet Liya. Advertisement Advertisement Supporting Modis big announcement, Congress Parliamentary Party president Sonia Gandhi said, I welcome it. #WATCH | Delhi: Chaudhary Charan Singh, PV Narasimha Rao Garu and M S Swaminathan conferred with the Bharat Ratna. Congress Parliamentary Party president Sonia Gandhi says, "I welcome it." pic.twitter.com/Sk61F8IZAY ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2024 Advertisement NV Subhash, grandson of PV Narasimha Rao and BJP leader said, I feel very emotional because we have been expecting that the Bharat Ratna will be delayed. But due to the efforts of the BJP TelanganaAs a family member, I thank the BJP Telangana also for making this a grand success and the dream come true Advertisement #WATCH | BJP leader & grandson of Former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao, NV Subhash says, "PM Modi has conferred PV Narasimha Rao though he belongs to the Congress party. Now, I blame the UPA government especially the Gandhi family from 2004 to 2014 when the UPA government was pic.twitter.com/rSE0lyCRKA ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2024 Advertisement With inputs from agencies The growing focus on the Indian Navy has essentially been accompanied by decoupling the Indian Navy from its British legacy and taking it back to its indigenous roots By carrying out back-to-back rescue operations in the past month, the Indian Navy has emerged as the bright spot in the otherwise unstable waters of the Red Sea. The Israel-Hamas war has not only thrown the Middle East into a flux but its effects are now also spilling over to South Asia and the wider expanse of the Indian Ocean Region. Advertisement The worsening security concerns in the Red Sea due to constant attacks from the Yemen-based Houthis on cargo ships have further been exacerbated with Somali pirates also targeting the ships passing through this region. As the security situation in the Red Sea and also in the Arabian Sea has deteriorated, the Indian Navy has now emerged as the net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region. Indian Navy has always been exemplary in its duty and in particular, has always been proactive in benign causes like Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations. However, with the spill-over effects of the war in the Middle East threatening the security of the Indian Ocean Region, India is asserting its position as the resident power and as the primary stakeholder in the security architecture of the region. Indias rescue operations and in particular the role of the Indian Navy not only correspond to the existing global order. The current security concerns may have pronounced the role of the Indian Navy. But there is also a strong civilisational undertone to Indias naval operations. This undertone could be considered from decolonisation and indigenisation perspectives. Advertisement The decolonisation narrative has been a major issue in the Indian political discourse for a long time. However, in the past few months, there has been a tangible and accelerated effort towards decolonisation and indigenisation across different spheres. Some important steps in this direction include the use of the name Bharat instead of India. This was the highlight when India hosted the G20 Summit in September 2023 as the placard in front of Prime Minister Narendra Modi displayed the name Bharat. Besides, three criminal justice laws, the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, the Bharatiya Suraksha Sanhita and the Bharatiya Sakshya Act, recently passed by the Indian parliament also seek to replace the colonial-era Indian Penal Code, the Code of Criminal Procedure and the Indian Evidence Act. The recent consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya is projected as one of the most prominent steps towards decolonisation. Advertisement Also, the scope of the decolonisation narrative has now expanded. For decades, only the 200-year British rule in India was earmarked as the colonial period in the collective memory of the Indian people. Now the 200-year period is being replaced by a period of about 1,000 years which includes the Islamic invasions in India. Advertisement This indigenisation process which is becoming visible in the political, legal and cultural domains is gradually gaining emphasis in the security domain as well. Just as the decolonisation debate had been restricted to British rule, the same principle was evident in Indian strategic thought as well for a long time. As one of the relics of British rule, the continental mindset had remained a norm in Indian strategic thought for a long time. The continental mindset crept into Indias security outlook as a legacy of the British who were engaged in the Great Game with Russia. It led to the British focusing more on the territorial aspect of security to stop Russias advances against India. This included courting countries and regions in the Northwest and the Northeast such as Afghanistan, the Central Asian Khanates (as they were then known), Tibet and China. Advertisement This thinking consolidated even after independence as India faced perpetual security concerns from Pakistan and China. As a result the fact that India was one of the major maritime nations in the world since time immemorial was greatly sidelined. However, in the past about one decade, the maritime domain has been regaining its importance in Indias strategic circles. The emergence of the geostrategic concept of the Indo-Pacific Region and Chinas belligerence in Indias neighbourhood and extended neighbourhood have caused India to increase its focus on strengthening the naval arm of its military. Advertisement The growing focus on the Indian Navy has essentially been accompanied by decoupling the Indian Navy from its British legacy and taking it back to its indigenous roots. To achieve this, the government has evoked Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj who is considered as the Father of the Indian Navy. Shivaji, who inherited a landlocked region, recognised the importance of sea access and navy. His strategic vision proclaimed: He who owns the Navy owns the Sea. Shivaji foresaw that the Navy was essential not only to defend his kingdom but also to protect sea trade. At the peak of his rule, Shivaji successfully built sea forts to defend the coastlines extending through Konkan. Starting from scratch with around 18-20 ships Shivaji built a fleet of more than 500 ships. Advertisement To decolonise and indigenise its naval strategic thought, India is now identifying itself with Shivaji and letting go off the British legacy. In September 2022, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the Indian Navys new ensign that is inspired by Shivaji and dropped St Georges Cross from the colonial era. On 4 December, 2023, on the occasion of Navy Day, the Indian Navy held an operational demonstration (Op Demo) at Tarkali Beach on the West Coast against the backdrop of Sindhudurg Fort built by Shivaji. Advertisement Further recently the government has proposed listing of Maratha Military Landscapes of India for the UNESCO World Heritage List for the year 2024-25. This list includes 12 forts, 11 of which are in Maharashtra and one is in Tamil Nadu. It is pertinent to note that out of these 12 forts, four forts Sindhudurg, Vijaydurg, Suvarnadurg and Khanderi are sea forts in Maharashtra along the Konkan coast. These four forts were developed by Shivaji as the naval bases of his state. The Navy had played an important role in consolidating the Maratha rule, which reached its peak during the reign of Shivaji. Advertisement While drawing inspiration from a historical figure like Shivaji in the operational domain, it is equally important to continue strengthening and upgrading the navy to face contemporary challenges. In this area as well India is following Shivaji by gradually shifting to Atmanirbharta or self-reliance in defence manufacturing. To this end, the Indian Navy recently released Swavlamban 2.0 document to synergise the Indian Navys relationship with the industry and to encourage all sectors of the industry to participate in the indigenous development of all naval systems. While the indigenisation plan is a positive step, it is important to back this with budget allocation. In the defence budget for 2024-2025, the Indian Navy has been allocated an outlay of Rs23,800 crore for the naval fleet and Rs6,830 crore for naval dockyard projects. The Indian Navy plans to acquire deck-based fighter aircraft, submarines, and next-generation survey vessels through this allocation. Advertisement The Red Sea crisis has highlighted the role of the Indian Navy in international security. The contemporary global order combined with Shivajis legacy should further propel India to assert its rightful position as a leading maritime nation in the world. The author is a political analyst and researcher based in Vadodara. His areas of specialisation include international relations, foreign policy and geopolitics. He tweets @NiranjanMarjani. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. Advertisement Read all the Latest News , Trending News , Cricket News , Bollywood News , India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram . In situations such as the ongoing Ukraine war, where India finds it hard to stand by its traditional friend Moscow, owing to complicated circumstances, it cannot also be seen as travelling with the US the whole hog Between them, US President Joe Biden and rival Republican Partys Nikki Haley seem bent on pushing India closer to France for a balanced relationship in the western world that has all the ingredients of strategic stability, both in the bilateral and multilateral contexts. That is if one were to leave out Indias Russia relations, which many believed were rocky but became sort of rock steady all over again owing to the Ukraine War, where the long American arm was seen all over the place. Advertisement Yes, Nikki Haley, 51, is not even Bidens likely rival in the US presidential polls in November. She did not mean to question, challenge or rebuke India, either. Instead, by claiming that India was moving closer to Russia than the US, implying that the Biden presidency did not inspire confidence not only in New Delhi, but also in Tokyo and Seoul, Canberra and Wellington, Halley was only targeting the incumbent back home. But her choice of India, and not any of Americas NATO allies, for example and her choice of words, gave the impression that she was trying to convince a certain section of Republican voters that she was all American, and not Indian. It has to be front-runner and former president Donald Trump. Halley is trailing the Republican primaries and polled lower than their kind of NOTA in Nevada, but that does not make sure that Trumps name will be on the ballot. Indications are that at some point, either the Republican Party bosses or American courts could make it embarrassing for Trumps name to be on the ballot. Advertisement Halley seems hoping for that day and is persisting in the primaries precisely for this reason. Maybe, like a typical Indian-origin woman that she is, Halley is hoping for sympathy votes or survivors votes, first in the primaries and later in the presidential poll. Of course, there is a long way to go this time than any time in the past. Advertisement Disappointment for India Biden kept India waiting and eventually turned down the invitation to be the chief guest at the annual Republic Day celebrations. Information about Indias invitation having spread after a time (generally it is kept secret until accepted which again used to be a formality), Bidens avoidably-delayed rejection was a disappointment for India. It is not known how the Indian-American supporters of Biden and the Democratic Party feel about it. Advertisement Not-so-official news sources claimed that Bidens decision owed to the election year commitments on campaigns and other essentials. In his place, another Democratic president, Barack Obama, took a short break from his so-called pressing engagements back home to be present in Mumbai first and Delhi next, where he was the chief guest at the 2015 Republic Day. Of course, in true American form and style, it was not a visit confined to honouring contemporary Indias tryst with destiny. Advertisement Obama did hard-selling business in an election year and took back orders for Boeing, which he said would ensure 20,000 Americans did not lose their jobs. Biden was constrained by domestic perceptions, both inside the Democratic Party and outside. Maybe, Team Modi too thought that having Biden would be a high-profile commencement to the ruling BJP-NDAs campaign for the Lok Sabha polls in the summer. To an extent, it compares with the Namaste Trump show that India put out for the US President of the time, in February 2020 amid the farmers rally in New Delhi. Advertisement The Ahmedabad rally in particular was only a mirror-image of the Trump show for the Indian prime minister, Howdy Modi in Houston months earlier in Houston, Texas. Different cuppa This is as far as Indias American relations go. Of course, there are the larger State-to-State strategic ties on all fronts, from security exchanges to defence procurement to information-sharing in scientific areas wherever needed. Yet, there are still deep-seated American doubts and suspicions about Indias leadership, whether it was Indira Gandhi in the Nixon era or Modi now in Bidens time. Advertisement In comparison, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is much more popular in India as only Indira Gandhi was before him than Biden is in the US. That may explain some of Bidens tentativeness but there is a history of Democrats playing the human rights card more against India than even Republicans, except Nixon during the Bangladesh War, when the situation was different. Advertisement But India-France relations are a different cuppa. There has been political and strategic stability in their government-to-government ties, whoever is the ruler in New Delhi or Paris. Thus, the non-BJP government procured Mirage from France and the Modi leadership could obtain Rafale fighters decades later. There were no hiccups in the two procurements. The French government of the day did not have to point fingers at Parliament as successive US presidents have been habituated to cite the Congress as an excuse to propose heavily one-sided proposals, whether on political ties, economic cooperation or defence supplies. Advertisement Typical French grace There was more to bilateral business with India in Paris than in Washington where people would find ways to make India feel small at every turn and also as a follower in the US camp than being an equal partner. With France, it has been different, all through. Suffice it to point out that France did not join the US-led western sanctions on India after the 1998 Pokhran-II nuclear tests, which the US in particular found to be offensive and arrogant. Advertisement It was France and only France. That has not changed since. In the post-Cold War era, US wants clients for out-sourcing its global concerns that have moved away from Moscow to Beijing, New Delhi, Seoul, Tokyo and Canberra, all fitting the bill. France did not, or does not play its global games that way. It has been looking for partners and partnerships that last longer regardless of changing political leadership that is a part of democratic polity the world over. Advertisement This should explain why and how it did not hurt the personal dignity and national pride of French President Emmanuel Macron and his institutionalised diplomatic advisors when asked for him to be the chief guest at the R-Day parade this year after US Biden had turned it down after making India wait for long. In the past, abiding friend Bhutan was the only abiding nation that India had approached in times of such diplomatic embarrassment. France was ready to put itself in Bhutans place, though comparisons should end there. By accepting the Indian invitation to be the chief guest at this years R-Day fete, France and not just President Macron have displayed typical French grace. However, the occasion also provided both leaders and their governments an advanced schedule to complete businesses that they might have otherwise put off for another day all of them, follow-up action on decisions that they had arrived at when Modi was the guest of honour at the annual Bastille Day parade with Macron playing host. If youre not my friend For India, France is increasingly becoming a neutral territory compared to the US on the one side and Russia on the other which are daggers drawn at each other. Between the two, it is Washington, and not Moscow that has been reminding India constantly of its diktat of the if you are not my friend, you are my enemy kind. Yes, India did get the opportunity to assert its strategic independence in procuring Russian oil since the commencement of the Ukraine war, defying US-led western sanctions. America squirmed but accepted the Indian decision as a fait accompli about which it could do nothing. However, India is also beginning to learn the price of its alliance with the US. Unilateral American positions on things that do not affect either America or India directly and its uncompromising positions as with the Ukraine war first and the continuing Gulf conundrum have exposed the limitations of New Delhi moving too close to Washington. There, all allies of the US are handed down a fait accompli and are expected to fall in line. Possibly, India is the only nation that defied the US on the Ukraine war front and is seemingly weighing its options on developments in Gaza and the Gulf. And India did it with grace and poise by standing firmly on its feet and uncompromisingly so. In situations such as the ongoing Ukraine war, where India finds it hard to stand by its traditional friend Moscow, owing to complicated circumstances, it cannot also be seen as travelling with the US the whole hog. In such a scenario, France, for instance, could be a Western, European and West European friend that New Delhi can count on. France too has its positions on international issues but unlike the US it does not expect or insist on India to side with it wholly and whole-heartedly. That is saying a lot for bilateral relations between India and France, and their approaches to multilateral issues and concerns with the guarantee that New Delhi can count as much on Paris veto in the UNSC as Moscow, which confidence Washington is yet to give India! Army chief General Asim Munir knows that if Imran Khan again becomes a political factor in Pakistans political life, he will not be able to remain in the country The polls for Pakistans National Assembly and its four provincial Assemblies closed at 5 pm on Thursday. The Pakistani people expected that the countrys Election Commission would succeed in declaring the election results by the early hours of this morning. This is because under Pakistani practice counting of votes is done in the election booths itself and the candidates agents are informed of the results. These booth results are then forwarded to the Election Commission where they are tabulated, and after scrutiny, officially announced. However, all the election results have not been announced as of 12.30 pm Pakistan time, leading to confusion and speculation that the commission is engaged in rigging the results. Advertisement In the absence of the official declaration of results by the commission, Pakistani TV channels have begun announcing results as they are becoming aware of them. These indicate that Imran Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)s candidates who have been compelled to contest as independents because they were disallowed from using the party symbol are doing well in the National Assembly in Punjab and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa provinces. The fact that the Election Commission is silent has given rise to the speculation that it is manipulating the results against these PTI candidates who are contesting as independents. A major illustration is that of the election from a Lahore constituency in which the Pakistan Muslim League (N) supremo and thrice Pakistans prime minister Nawaz Sharif was pitted against a PTI lady candidate contesting as an independent. Since last night till about 10.30 am the TV channels were showing that Nawaz Sharif was trailing by around 7000 votes. Suddenly, an announcement came into the channels that he had finally won by around 56,000 votes. The TV commentators were taken by surprise and some of them raised doubts about the credibility of the result. Advertisement It is entirely possible that the earlier numbers which showed Nawaz Sharif trailing were those of areas where he was unpopular but when votes began to be counted of areas which were his strongholds then he easily won the election. However, a cloud has come over his victory. This is not the case though with the victories of his brother Shehbaz Sharif who headed that Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government as Prime Minister or that of his daughter Maryam Nawaz or of Shehbaz Sharifs son and former Punjab province Chief Minister Hamza Nawaz. Advertisement As I write these lines a prominent Pakistani TV channel announced that it had unofficially obtained full results of 103 out of the 265 National Assembly seats. It claims that of these 48 were won by Independents the vast majority of whom were PTI candidates contesting as independents. At the same time PML(N) has won 30 and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has got 23 seats. At the same time, the Election Commission website is showing the results of only 50 seats in which the PML(N) is being shown having a slender lead. Confusion continues and the Pakistani people are full of suspicion and speculation. Advertisement It is also clear that the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) National Assembly seats are from Sindh. The PPP should also be able to retain the Sindh Provincial Assembly. It has gained a few seats in southern Punjab for the National Assembly. The election results may therefore be positive for them and enable them to play a role in the formation of the national government. This is especially because of the good showing by the PTI candidates who contested as independents which as of now indicates that no party on its own will be able to form a national government on its own. Advertisement The Pakistani army, the judiciary, the Election Commission and the major political parties took all actions they could to finish off the PTI. The informal results that are being announced by the Pakistani media show that Imran Khan retains a large measure of support. Also, his supporters came out in good numbers to vote for the PTI candidates who contested as independents. Advertisement At the same time PML(N) supporters showed a degree of apathy. It would be deeply embarrassing for the Pakistani establishment if PTI candidates who contested as independents become the single largest group in the National Assembly. The PTI may not be able to form a government because it would not have an existence, as a party, in the National Assembly but Imran Khan would get space, even from jail, to play political games. Advertisement The next few hours are crucial for Pakistani politics and national life. There is no doubt that all attempts would still be made by the establishment to deny the PTI candidates who contested as independents to emerge as the single largest group. However, despite their best efforts the establishment may not succeed in doing so. Advertisement That will set the stage for massive politicking and the army playing a role in government formation from behind the scenes. This may include pressure on those elected in Imran Khans name being compelled to join other parties. Certainly, even at this stage army chief General Asim Munir knows that if Imran Khan again becomes a political factor in Pakistans political life, he will not be able to remain in the country. Advertisement All eyes of the region are on Pakistan and the dubious developments taking place in the Muslim Ummahs only country possessing nuclear weapons. Pakistan continues to be in a political and economic mess. The writer is a former Indian diplomat who served as Indias Ambassador to Afghanistan and Myanmar, and as secretary, the Ministry of External Affairs. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. Advertisement Read all the Latest News , Trending News , Cricket News , Bollywood News , India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram . A recently declassified report from the Canadian Security Intelligence Service equating India with China as a potential foreign interference threat to Canadas democratic processes brings another major setback to Indias already troubled relationship with the Western world, particularly the US and Canada. Over the last few months, Indias bilateral ties with the US and Canada have plummeted, touching news lows over the issues of Canadas false allegations of Indian involvement in the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar and DCs fabricated and politically motivated allegations of the Indian agents plotting to kill another Khalistani saboteur Gurupatwant Singh Pannun, on the American soil. Advertisement The current rough patch Indias diplomatic ties with the US and Canada are going through are not bolts from the blue, surprising the strategic community. Any keen observer of the historical trajectory of Indias bilateral ties with the two countries will understand the rationale behind these frictions, i.e., the Western obsession with bullying and pressurising India to align with their flawed and short-sighted strategic objectives. However, what disappoints and alarms is the timing of such allegations, raising serious questions about the long-term intent, sincerity and honesty of their claims of strengthening bilateral ties. It seems that the Western block is hell-bent on spoiling and ruining diplomatic ties with India, with an utmost disregard for their image in Indias popular perception. In the post-COVID world, fully aware of Chinese aggressive and revisionist behaviour, the global strategic community, particularly the Western world, has been fervently proposing to forge a robust front of democratic states against Chinas autocracy, revanchism, and revisionism. The Quad, of which India is a key member, has been at the forefront of this thought. India, with its credentials of being the largest democracy with credible institutions and a responsible state actor, is expected to be a core member of the anti-China front. Whether the Western powers pursue this goal in sincerity is a question that can be left to those driving the deep state in the Western block. However, at least in the popular perception of foreign policy scholars, the Western block expects and wants India to be one of the strongest pillars of such an anti-China front. Advertisement The most pertinent question that arises in the backdrop of this fundamental thought of contemporary diplomacy being shaped to respond to the world order changing trends is by which rational are the Western powers expecting India to support and animate their proposed anti-China front of democratic states if, at the same time, they are painstakingly eroding the foundations of trust with India by sabotaging its image and being persistent in bullying and sermonising New Delhi on democracy and human rights? What is the logic of this duplicitous behaviour of the US-led Western world where it wants India to be its key ally against China; however, at the same time, they leave no stone unturned in ruining the bilateral trust by a malicious anti-India propaganda war. Advertisement On the one hand, the West speaks of India as a vibrant democracy with a burgeoning economy, stability, and credible institutions. However, on the other hand, they castigate India through their religious freedom and human rights measuring agencies like USCIRF as a country of concern with minorities living in fear, democracy backsliding, and the country slipping into dictatorship. For example, the recent inauguration of the Ram temple is a matter of utmost importance to Indians and their faith; however, the Western press condemns it as a fascist majoritarianism. Advertisement With this perplexed and contradictory messaging, what do they expect? Is it going to generate popular support for them? And, when such allegations and aspersions are without evidence, lacking research and full of biases and racist arrogance, then it generates a current of anti-West feelings. Any random opinion poll today is most likely to result in an extraordinarily positive perception of Russia and an extremely negative opinion of the US, UK, and Canada, despite all the talk of strengthening bilateral ties with the US, including arms deals and defence cooperation agreements like BECA, LEMOA, and COMCASA. Advertisement In the current scenario, though Russia is more aligned with China, Indias arch-rival, any visit of Indian leaders to Russia or vice-versa generates tremendous euphoria and joy among the common people, unlike in the case of a visit to the US. The popular memory shows an immense emotional love for Russia, seen as a great friend who helped India during the 1971 war. It is quite surprising but not difficult to understand why an overwhelming number of people aware of foreign policy and international affairs speak English, watch Hollywood movies and American drams, chase the American dream, eat Western food, and send their children to study in Canada, the US, UK and Western Europe. However, there is no love lost for the West. Western powers overt criticism, anti-India and anti-Sanatan propaganda, and constant lecturing to India, in a complete disregard to its values, culture, history, interests, popular sentiments, and beliefs, generate antipathy towards the West. Advertisement The recent Canadian Intelligence report identifying India as a foreign interference threat to its democracy cannot be ignored as purely an India-Canada bilateral issue. It is about a much bigger issue of the fundamental approach and attitude of the US-led Western block towards India. First and foremost, as far as the allegations are concerned, without much effort and argumentation, they can be dumped as baseless and motivated. In fact, on a closer analysis, it can be argued that instead of them, India should be accusing them of foreign interference and sabotaging its democracy, cultural and religious legacy, and social harmony. Since the 1970s, the US has sheltered and encouraged Khalistani separatists in cahoots with the notorious ISI. Advertisement Today, when the Khalistani terrorist movement is dead in India, the hardcore Khalistani terrorists and ideologues have found safe havens and a supportive environment in Canada, the UK, and the US. Gurupatwant Singh Pannun, who has called for a Sikh referendum directly threatening and challenging Indias territorial integrity and sovereignty, the US establishment stands behind him and facilitates his anti-India campaign. In Canada, Khalistani extremists and absconding Indian gangsters and criminals have a free run. Jagmeet Singhs National Democratic Party, an avowed Khalistan sympathizer party, is a member of the Canadian government. In complete disregard to Indian concerns and sentiments, Sikh extremists organized processions glorifying Indira Gandhis killers and blatantly threatened Indian diplomats. The worst part is that the Canadian government is mostly a mute spectator and, on several occasions, appears as a supporter and sympathizer. Advertisement Reportedly, ISI agents and handlers have coordinated anti-India operations with Khalistanis and Kashmiri separatists in Canada. Allegedly, Kashmiri separatists and extremists working under the instructions of the ISI in the Kashmir Canadian Council have been instrumental in running anti-India propaganda operations and funnelling terror funds in Kashmir. Western actors have fuelled environmental protests against development projects and fanned caste, communal, and regional fault lines. Missionary organizations with the tacit support of Western institutions have executed grand conversion campaigns like Project Joshua to dismantle the entire demographic structure of this country. Additionally, the Western intelligence agencies, as mentioned in the memoirs of their retired intelligence officials, played a key role in Lal Bahadur Shastri and Homi Jehangir Bhabhas death under mysterious and suspicious circumstances. The US facilitated Pakistans massacre of three million Bangladeshis in 1971 by continuing its military supplies to Pakistan, knowing full well that Islamabad was using those weapons against hapless and unarmed Bangladeshis. Advertisement Besides, Western academic institutions, journalists, and non-profit organisations have often ridiculed Indias democracy and peddled anti-India narratives, particularly on the issues of minority rights, democracy, and human rights. After Narendra Modi was sworn in as prime minister in 2014, the Western human rights industry launched a campaign against India, which continues till today. Given this track record, when the US-led West accuses India of being a foreign interference threat to their democracy, it comes out as their sheer hypocrisy. It not only exposes their duplicity but severely damages the fledgling faith of Indian voters in the West. It can be seen in todays popular perception. Advertisement Today, when the West needs India as an ally against China, they are expected to be more generous and respectful towards Indias social, political, cultural, and religious trends; however, they continue to be vitriolic and derisive of India. It emanates from the deep-rooted vestiges of a racist colonial mindset, arrogance, and a false sense of superiority, which hinders them from accepting India as a major global power. The West feels that by using pressure tactics, psyops, and bullying, they can force India to align with them and unequivocally support them by joining alliances against Russia and China. This is a very narrow, utilitarian, and transactional approach towards diplomacy, which is bound to fail with India. This approach is rooted in their understanding of geopolitics in binaries, coming from their historical experience. However, in the oriental world, historical experiences were different, shaping a different understanding of statecraft and diplomacy. Advertisement Likewise, Indias approach and wisdom in foreign policy come from a different kind of legacy, entirely different from the Western experiences of mercantilism, world wars, capitalism, and imperialism. This is why India takes a principled stand based on its enlightened self-interest and national security on various global issues like the Ukraine war, Chinas expansionism, climate change, and the Israel-Hamas conflict. The West needs to understand and appreciate Indias uniqueness and strategic autonomy instead of bullying and arm-twisting. These pressure tactics will not work in Indias case. If the West wants a meaningful and constructive engagement with India, then it cant be purely transactional based on a myopic approach, duplicity and colonial baggage. The engagement has to be on an equal footing, emphasizing mutual trust, respect, understanding, and sincerity. Interestingly, it can be observed that New Delhi has found a way to bypass Western bullying through its nuanced bilateral diplomacy based on mutual respect and sincerity. It can be seen in Indias strengthening ties with Armenia, Greece, France, the UK, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, UAE, Israel, and Italy and outreach to other European countries, traditionally falling in the Western block. At the same time, India has successfully maintained its robust ties with Iran and Russia, facing sanctions from the Western world. Even with China, New Delhi can be seen exploring a modus vivendi to coexist and continue economic ties while resolving the boundary disputes. Prime Minister Modis smart diplomacy riding on the wheels of bilateralism and mini-lateralism has been Indias phenomenal success in todays highly polarised world, except for nations. In my informal and formal interactions with several European diplomats, I found that except for the US and Canada, the rest of the Western world has already started accepting and appreciating Indias unique ability to maintain its strategic autonomy and cordial and principled ties with the rival blocks and powers. Also, in their opinion, India sounds confident, stronger, and convincing in projecting its narrative on national and global issues. The author is the founder and CEO of Usanas Foundation, a foreign policy and national security thinktank. A Cornell University grad in public affairs, and the author of Radicalisation in India: An Exploration. His latest book Terror Financing in Kashmir has been published by Routledge in December 2023. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. Read all the Latest News , Trending News , Cricket News , Bollywood News , India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram . From a norm of humans understanding and learning about computer, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella believes we are moving towards an era where computers understands humans using AI, and natural language processing Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella addressed a massive audience of developers at an event in Bengaluru and expressed his belief that a longstanding dream in computing may finally be realised: creating computers that understand humans, rather than the other way around. If you take 70 years of computing, one of the dreams has always been: Can we create computers that can understand us versus us understanding computers? I think we may be finally there with the breakthrough of natural language, said Microsofts CEO. Advertisement He emphasized the theme of democratizing artificial intelligence (AI), making it accessible to transform lives and society at large. Nadella highlighted the transformative power of AI, stating that while developers traditionally digitize data, AI enables the extraction of patterns and predictive insights, fundamentally changing the nature of computing. We put into data models, query it, and essentially all our computing is getting up in the morning and digitising. Now, we have a new tool in our arsenal, think of it as a neural reasoning engine that can find patterns and give us that predictive power, he added., He stressed the importance of platform shifts in driving economic growth in India, suggesting that up to 10% of Indias GDP growth could stem from AI-related outputs. Acknowledging Indias burgeoning developer community, Nadella noted that the country is poised to surpass the US in terms of the total number of developers by 2027. He praised Indias momentum in embracing new platforms and leading the shift towards AI. Advertisement The CEO outlined key opportunities for Indian organizations in AI transformation, including enhancing employee experiences, reinventing customer engagement, streamlining business processes, and fostering innovation. Microsoft, with its extensive global AI infrastructure, aims to facilitate these transformations, offering a range of AI models and technologies. Nadella also discussed Microsofts commitment to equitable AI, emphasizing initiatives to equip two million individuals in India with AI skills by 2025 through the ADVANT(I)GE India initiative. Partnering with governments and focusing on diversity and inclusion, Microsoft seeks to ensure that the benefits of AI reach all segments of society, contributing to more balanced economic growth. Advertisement The event featured demonstrations showcasing the integration of Indic languages into coding platforms, underscoring Microsofts efforts to promote accessibility and innovation in AI development. Puneet Chandok, president of Microsoft India and South Asia, reiterated the companys dedication to driving AI capabilities across organizations and empowering individuals to embrace AI-driven transformations. A team of state sponsored hackers from China had broken into critical infrastructure systems in the US, including railways and water systems, and were hiding within the system for 5 years, a recent statement from the US National Security Agency, US cyber watchdog CISA has revealed American and allied intelligence agencies issued a joint statement on Wednesday, revealing the ongoing activity of an advanced group of Chinese hackers targeting critical US infrastructure, according to a report in The Guardian. Known as Volt Typhoon, this group has been operating for up to five years, infiltrating networks across various sectors including aviation, rail, mass transit, highway, maritime, pipeline, water, and sewage. Advertisement While specific organizations were not named, the statement disclosed that the hackers have maintained access and footholds within some victim IT environments for an extended period. The statement, signed by the US National Security Agency, US cyber watchdog CISA, the FBI, and the Transportation Security Administration, along with cybersecurity agencies from Britain, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, highlights the seriousness of the threat posed by Volt Typhoon. Unlike typical espionage-focused cyberattacks, Volt Typhoons activities appear geared towards sabotage, raising concerns among officials. This heightened threat level has prompted discussions between the White House and private technology industry leaders, including telecommunications and cloud computing companies, to seek assistance in tracking and mitigating the hackers actions. Eric Goldstein, a senior official at CISA, expressed deep concern about the malicious cyber activity originating from China, emphasizing that most of the identified victims offer no legitimate espionage value. Advertisement The joint statement underscores the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures to defend against such attacks on critical infrastructure. Google has relaunched Bard AI as Gemini. Google has also launched a new, more powerful, paid version of their AI bot, which is based on a more powerful model. Priced at $19.99 a month for US consumers, subscribers now have access to the more powerful Ultra 1.0 AI model Google has announced a significant update to its AI-powered chatbot, formerly known as Bard, now rebranded as Gemini. With this rebranding comes a new subscription service, Gemini Advanced, offering enhanced reasoning capabilities powered by the Gemini artificial intelligence. Priced at $19.99 per month for US consumers, subscribers gain access to the more powerful Ultra 1.0 AI model, along with two terabytes of cloud storage, a value-added feature previously priced at $9.99 per month. Advertisement Additionally, subscribers will soon enjoy the integration of Gemini into Gmail and Googles productivity suite. This move puts Google in direct competition with Microsoft and its partner OpenAI in the burgeoning market for AI subscription services. Microsofts recent announcement of a similar subscription offering for AI in its programs, priced at $20 per month in the US, further underscores the growing competition in this space. According to Product Lead Jack Krawczyk, Googles subscription service aims to provide users with the most capable generative AI technology, capable of creating new content on demand and handling queries without readily available answers online. The integration of Gemini into Googles suite of services, including cloud storage and Gmail, is designed to align with how people work, offering a comprehensive solution for AI-driven tasks. Advertisement Gemini will be seamlessly integrated into Android devices, allowing users to access it through various methods, such as voice activation or the app interface. Krawczyk emphasizes the ease of access for Android users, positioning Gemini as a convenient digital assistant for everyday tasks. The rollout of Gemini Advanced will begin in the US, with plans to expand internationally, offering additional language support and a two-month subscription trial for users. Advertisement With the rebranding of Bard to Gemini, Google signals its evolution in AI technology and its commitment to providing advanced AI solutions to its user base. Geminis integration into Googles ecosystem represents a significant step in the companys efforts to make AI more accessible and useful to consumers worldwide. (With inputs from agencies) Microsoft is planing to expand its Shiksha CoPilot programme from 10 schools to 100 announced CEO Satya Nadella, as he highlighted the companys significant investment in Indias AI talent pool, and education in India Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella has highlighted the companys significant investment in Indias AI talent pool, particularly through its AI offering, Microsoft Copilot. Nadella, currently visiting India, emphasized the impact of tools like Shiksha Copilot, which aim to streamline educational processes and enhance student engagement. Shiksha Copilot, part of Project VeLLM by Microsoft Research India, leverages generative AI to assist teachers, farmers, and small business owners. Advertisement It was awesome seeing firsthand today this example of how Indian educators are applying this next generation of AI to give time back to teachers and deliver more engaging lesson plans for students. https://t.co/KAHPvgprAt Satya Nadella (@satyanadella) February 8, 2024 Built on the Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service, Shiksha Copilot integrates with school curriculums and learning objectives, aiming to alleviate the burden on teachers and enrich learning experiences for students. Advertisement Nadella expressed enthusiasm for the potential of AI to revolutionize education in India, noting that the tool significantly reduces the time required for teachers to prepare lesson plans. Sikshana, an organization involved in the initiative, reported a drastic reduction in preparation time from over an hour to just 5 to 15 minutes, with minimal modifications needed by teachers. Advertisement This initiative aligns with Microsofts broader commitment to upskilling 2 million individuals in India to bolster the countrys AI talent pool, as announced by Nadella earlier in the week. Project VeLLM seeks to bridge the digital divide by leveraging Large Language Models (LLMs) to overcome barriers related to language, income, digital literacy, and information access. Advertisement During his visit, Nadella also met with Indian developers, reaffirming Microsofts dedication to empowering the countrys burgeoning developer community. He highlighted Indias potential as a hub for AI-based product development, citing projections that India will surpass the US to become the largest developer community on GitHub by 2027. Currently, India ranks second among the top 10 global communities contributing to generative AI projects on GitHub. Advertisement (With inputs from agencies) Midjourney CEO David Holz is planning to impose a ban on AI-generated political images, particularly those featuring President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump as the US gears up for the 2024 election Midjourney, a popular platform for generating AI-created images, is contemplating a ban on AI-generated political images, particularly those featuring President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump, as the United States gears up for the upcoming election season. The move aims to sidestep potential controversies and misuse of the platform during this politically charged period. Advertisement David Holz, CEO of Midjourney, expressed the companys deliberations during a recent session on Discord, an online chat platform. Holz cited concerns about political speech on the platform, especially amidst the heightened tensions of an election cycle. While acknowledging the appeal of creating images related to political figures, Holz hinted at the possibility of temporarily restricting such content to maintain a neutral stance during the election period. The consideration comes in light of broader efforts across the tech industry to mitigate the spread of misinformation and prevent platforms from being exploited for political purposes. Other CEOs, such as Mustafa Suleyman of Inflection AI and Sam Altman of OpenAI, have also voiced concerns and implemented measures to safeguard against the proliferation of misleading content, including AI-generated deepfakes. Advertisement Midjourney has existing community standards aimed at curbing the creation of deceptive or harmful images, but concerns persist about users circumventing these restrictions. The potential ban on political imagery, if implemented, may not be publicly announced, according to Holz, underscoring the companys cautious approach to handling sensitive content. However, experts caution that banning specific political figures from image-generation platforms may only serve as a temporary solution. Hany Farid, a digital forensics expert, believes that while such measures may address immediate concerns, they do not address the larger issue of political disinformation. Advertisement Despite platform safeguards, individuals may find ways to circumvent restrictions, perpetuating the spread of misleading content. As Midjourney and other platforms navigate the complexities of content moderation and political sensitivities, the challenge remains in striking a balance between free expression and preventing the misuse of AI-generated content for nefarious purposes. (With inputs from agencies) Sam Altman has become the poster boy of AI. Now he plans on disrupting the AI chip industry, and plans to set up a global network of AI silicon chips to ensure his ventures never face silicon shortages. For this, Altman is chasing about a trillion dollars from various investors Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI and a leading figure in the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI), is now setting his sights on a monumental endeavour: raising trillions of dollars to revolutionize the global semiconductor industry. Reports indicate that Altman is actively engaging with potential investors, including the government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), in pursuit of funding for this ambitious initiative. Advertisement The proposed project aims to address critical constraints hindering OpenAIs growth, particularly the scarcity of specialized computer chips essential for training advanced AI models like ChatGPT. Altman has repeatedly voiced concerns over the limited availability of these chips, known as graphics processing units (GPUs), which are vital for realizing artificial general intelligence systems surpassing human intelligence. The envisioned initiative encompasses a broad spectrum of objectives, including the expansion of global chip manufacturing capacity and enhancing capabilities to support AI development. Estimates suggest that the projects scale could necessitate an unprecedented investment ranging from $5 trillion to $7 trillion, significantly surpassing the current size of the semiconductor industry. Advertisement Altmans ambitious plan faces significant obstacles, but it represents a bold attempt to reshape the semiconductor landscape and address critical bottlenecks in technological innovation. The fundraising talks mark the latest in a series of ambitious endeavours by Altman to enact transformative change. Apart from spearheading the generative AI revolution with OpenAIs release of ChatGPT in 2022, Altman has also made substantial investments in startups focused on nuclear fusion energy and longevity research. Advertisement Energy consumption is a key consideration in Altmans fundraising efforts, as AI facilities require vast amounts of electricity to operate efficiently. Realizing Altmans vision would necessitate garnering support from a diverse array of stakeholders, including investors, industry partners, and governments. Altman has reportedly met with US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo to discuss the initiative, highlighting its strategic importance to national priorities. Advertisement As part of the discussions, Altman is proposing a partnership involving OpenAI, investors, chip makers, and power providers to establish chip foundries, with OpenAI committing to significant purchases from these new facilities. Much of the funding could come from debt financing, although the full list of potential investors and the timeline for the initiatives realization remain uncertain. Advertisement Amid surging demand for AI, concerns about chip supply and energy consumption have heightened, with geopolitical tensions further complicating the landscape. Altmans talks with various stakeholders, including UAE officials and representatives from leading chip manufacturers like Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC), underscore the global significance of his venture. While Microsoft, a key partner of OpenAI, has expressed support for Altmans efforts, challenges such as site selection for new chip plants and geopolitical considerations loom large. Despite these hurdles, Altmans pursuit of a trillion-dollar investment to reshape the semiconductor industry signifies a bold step toward advancing AI and driving global technological progress. Advertisement (With inputs from agencies) At least half of French citizens or about 33 million people have had their personal data stolen in perhaps one of the largest cyberattack to hit a European nation. The breach targeted two French service providers catering to medical insurance companies A massive cybersecurity breach has rocked France, with over 33 million individuals - nearly half of the countrys population - falling victim to the largest cyberattack in its history. The breach targeted two French service providers catering to medical insurance companies, Viamedis and Almerys, both acknowledging the potential exposure of millions of individuals data to hackers. Advertisement Yann Padova, a legal expert in digital data protection and former Secretary General of the French data protection authority National Commission on Informatics and Liberty or CNIL, described the breach as unprecedented in scale, labelling it as the biggest security breach in France. The attacks occurred within five days at the beginning of February. Viamedis reported that hackers used phishing techniques to obtain login credentials of health professionals, gaining unauthorized access to the system. Meanwhile, Almerys clarified that the central system remained uncompromised, but hackers infiltrated a portal used by health professionals. The compromised data includes sensitive information such as marital status, date of birth, social security numbers, health insurer details, and policy coverage for the affected individuals, as confirmed by CNIL. However, CNIL reassured that critical information such as bank details, medical records, contact information, or email addresses remained unaffected. Advertisement In response to the breach, there may be disruptions to the tiers payant system, where patients dont pay the full medical service costs upfront. The CNIL cautioned against phishing threats, urging vigilance in verifying the authenticity of communications from official sources, especially given the potential for combining leaked data with information from prior breaches. Advertisement To comply with General Data Protection Regulation or GDPRs regulations, individuals impacted by the breach will be individually notified by their health insurance providers. The incident underscores the growing threat of cyberattacks and the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard personal data and mitigate risks to individuals and organizations alike. Advertisement (With inputs from agencies) Aliyev has been in power for more than 20 years. He had called an early vote while he was enjoying a surge in popularity after his forces swiftly reclaimed the Karabakh region from ethnic Armenian separatists who had controlled it for three decades. Azerbaijans Central Election Commission said Friday that President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan has officially won another term in office with 92.12% of the vote. However, poll observers have expressed concern about the vote, alleging irregularity in the voting. On Thursday, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) criticized the recent election, stating that it occurred within a restricted environment lacking genuine political competition. Advertisement President Aliyev, who has maintained power for over two decades, called for early elections amid a surge in popularity following the swift recapture of the Karabakh region from ethnic Armenian separatists, who had held control for thirty years. With this victory, he secures another seven-year term in office. The election Wednesday, took place in a restrictive environment and was marked with the stifling of critical voices, said Artur Gerasymov, special coordinator and leader of the OSCE group of election observers in Azerbaijan. Aliyev was not meaningfully challenged, and because of limitations on independent media, civil society and other political parties, the contest was devoid of genuine pluralism, Gerasymov said Thursday. He added that the near absence of analytical reporting in Azerbaijani media hampered voters ability to make an informed choice. Analysts suggested that Aliyev moved the election forward to capitalize on his burst in popularity following Septembers blitz in Karabakh. He will be in the limelight again in November when Azerbaijan, a country which relies heavily on revenues from fossil fuels, hosts a U.N. climate change conference. Advertisement Aliyev, 62, has been in power since 2003 when he succeeded his father, who was Azerbaijans Communist boss and then president for a decade when the country became independent after the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union. Aliyev had declared that he wanted this election to mark the beginning of a new era, in which Azerbaijan has full control over its territory. He and his family cast their ballots in Khankendi, a city that was called Stepanakert by Armenians when it housed the headquarters of the self-declared separatist government. Advertisement The region, which had been known internationally as Nagorno-Karabakh, and large swaths of surrounding territory came under full control of ethnic Armenian forces backed by Armenia at the end of a separatist war in 1994. Azerbaijan regained parts of Karabakh and most of the surrounding territory in 2020 in a six-week war that ended with a Moscow-brokered truce. In December 2022, Azerbaijan started blockading the road linking the region with Armenia, causing food and fuel shortages, and then launched a September 2023 blitz that routed separatist forces in just one day and forced them to lay down their arms. Advertisement More than 100,000 ethnic Armenians fled the region, leaving it nearly deserted. Aliyevs time in power has been marked by the introduction of increasingly strict laws that curb political debate, as well as arrests of opposition figures and independent journalists including in the runup to the presidential election. Azerbaijans two main opposition parties Musavat and the Peoples Front of Azerbaijan did not take part in the vote, and some opposition members alleged it may have been rigged. Advertisement With inputs from AP. Special Counsel Robert Hur said in a report said Joe Bidens memory was severely limited when he was interviewed by members of his prosecution team An elderly Joe Biden with a poor memory will not face charges for knowingly taking classified documents when he left the vice presidency in 2017, said a prosecutor who drew a swift reaction from the US President. What did the prosecutor say? Describing Biden a well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory, Special Counsel Robert Hur said in a report that he opted against bringing criminal charges following a 15-month investigation because the US President, seeking reelection in November 2024 polls, cooperated and would be difficult to convict. Advertisement Mr. Biden would likely present himself to a jury, as he did during our interview of him, as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory, said Hur, who served as the top federal prosecutor in Maryland during the Trump administration and was tapped to lead the Biden probe by Attorney General Merrick Garland in January 2023. Hur wrote that Bidens memory was severely limited when he was interviewed by members of his prosecution team. Biden forgot what year his term began as vice president under President Barack Obama and when it ended, Hur wrote, and he forgot what year his son Beau died. Bidens Angry Rebuttal Appearing on live television address from the White House, Biden defended his mental competence. Furious over the suggestion made by the attorney that the US President had forgotten when his son, Beau, had died, the leader said the accusation that he had willfully kept the classified material was just plain wrong. Advertisement How in the hell dare he raise that, a visibly angry Biden said. Frankly, when I was asked that question, I thought to myself, Wasnt any of their damn business, the US President said. I dont need anyone to remind me when he passed away, Biden added, appearing emotional as he referenced a rosary he wears that had belonged to Beau. Advertisement Every Memorial Day we hold a service (to) remember him attended by friends and family and the people who loved him, Biden said, after a pause. I dont need anyone I dont need anyone to remind me when he passed away. He went on to say, My memory is fine, adding that he was glad that a special prosecutor had looked into the case. Advertisement "My memory is fine," President Biden tells reporters in a surprise last-minute press conference following a special counsel report that raised questions about his mental fitness. pic.twitter.com/oq1PBaO5Fb Last Call (@LastCallCNBC) February 9, 2024 Advertisement Source: X/@LastCallCNBC Beau Biden was an Iraq War veteran who served as the attorney general of Delaware. He died in 2015 after battling brain cancer. Meanwhile, the conclusion by the attorney somewhat ensures that Biden, unlike his expected 2024 presidential rival, Donald Trump, will not risk prison time for mishandling sensitive government documents. Advertisement Biden confuses presidents of Mexico & Egypt However, Biden confused the leaders of Mexico and Egypt during the live address when he was questioned about the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Biden mistakenly referred to Egyptian leader Abdel Fattah El-Sisi as the president of Mexico." I think as you know initially, the president of Mexico, El-Sisi, did not want to open up the gate to humanitarian material to get in. I talked to him. I convinced him to open the gate," Biden said. Advertisement In remarks assuring the nation that his mental fitness and memory are good, Joe Biden refers to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi as the president of Mexico pic.twitter.com/qdmtJascKS Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) February 9, 2024 Advertisement Embarrassment for Biden? The remark by the attorney may further cause embarrassment for 81-year-old Biden, oldest person ever to serve as US president, who has been trying to convince voters that he should serve another four-year term. Advertisement With inputs from agencies The Russian president said that while his government is in close touch with the US government, a peaceful resolution to the war would only become a reality if Washington stops supplying weapons to Kyiv In an interview with US host Tucker Carlson, Russian President Vladimir Putin said it is impossible by definition to defeat his country in Ukraine. Carlsons late-night interview with Putin, which has faced backlash from the US, has thrown light on the presidents views on topics ranging from the Russia-Ukraine war to the countrys relationship with the US. Advertisement Notably, this was Putins first interview with a West-based media personality since the beginning of the war in Ukraine in 2022. Ep. 73 The Vladimir Putin Interview pic.twitter.com/67YuZRkfLL Tucker Carlson (@TuckerCarlson) February 8, 2024 Absolutely out of question The Russian President began the interview with a 20-minute-long monologue on the days of Catherine the Great, the empress of Russia from 1762 to 1796 to the history of Eastern Europe and Russia. He added that Russia is yet to achieve its war aims in Ukraine. It is absolutely out of the question. You just dont have to be any kind of analyst, it goes against common sense to get involved in some kind of a global war, and a global war will bring all of humanity to the brink of devastation. Advertisement The Russian president said that while his government is in close touch with the US government, a peaceful resolution to the war would only become a reality if Washington stops supplying weapons to Kyiv. I will tell you what we are saying on this matter and what we are conveying to the US leadership. If you really want to stop fighting, you need to stop supplying weapons. It will be over within a few weeks, thats it, and then we can agree on some terms. Before you do that, stop, Putin said. Advertisement Not interested in attacking Latvia, Poland In the two-hour-long interview with former FOX News Anchor Tucker Carlson, Putin reiterated that while Russia will continue fighting for its interests, his government does not plan to make any territorial claims in Poland or Latvia. Asked if he could imagine a scenario in which he would send Russian troops to Poland, a NATO member, Putin replied, Only in one case, if Poland attacks Russia. Why? Because we have no interest in Poland, Latvia or anywhere else. Why would we do that? We simply dont have any interest. Advertisement The Russian leader claimed that he never refused to negotiate peace deals with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. With inputs from agencies Votes are being counted in Pakistan after Thursdays general election which was marred by allegations of rigging, sporadic violence and a countrywide mobile phone shutdown Independent candidates backed by Pakistans former prime minister Imran Khan have won 21 out of 50 seats so far as the counting of votes continued on 9 February following a delay in the process. According to results posted by Geo News, the two Prime Ministerial candidates, PML-Ns Nawaz Sharif and PPPs Bilawal Bhutto, have won their respective seats in Lahore and Larkana. Advertisement Votes are being counted in Pakistan after Thursdays general election which was marred by allegations of rigging, sporadic violence and a countrywide mobile phone shutdown. Jailed leader Imran Khans party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), was barred from contesting elections on 8 February. However, candidates backed by Khan sprung surprise after trends showed them leading as opposed to other parties. There was a sense of certainty about the outcome, Sarah Khan, an assistant professor of political science at Yale University, told AFP. That sense of certainty got upset very early on, she added. Its definitely not the foregone conclusion that anybody thought it might be. Total number of seats in Pakistan This year, candidates in Pakistan contested for 266 National Assembly (NA) seats out of a total of 336. However, polling was delayed in at least one seat in Bajaur after a candidate was killed during a gun attack. Advertisement The remaining 60 seats are reserved for women and 10 for minorities and are allotted to the winning parties based on proportional representation. Meanwhile, 5,121 candidates are contesting for the federal legislature and 12,695 for the provinces. With inputs from agencies Meloni said that her government has already acted to support the industry, diverting an extra three billion euros ($3.2 billion) to a total of eight billion from Italys share of the EUs post-Covid recovery fund. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met with Italian farmers associations on Friday following weeks of nationwide demonstrations and promised to reinstate a limited tax break. Farmers have been staging small-scale protests spanning from Sicily to Turin, urging the government to address various concerns including the cost of fuel and the impact of European Union environmental regulations aimed at combating climate change, which farmers argue are detrimental to their livelihoods. Advertisement Earlier Friday, the protests reached the centre of Rome, with tractors including one green, one white and one red, Italys national colours taking a symbolic drive past the Colosseum. Meloni who in October 2022 took office at the head of a nationalist government, has expressed sympathy with the farmers, criticising the EUs ideological rules. She says her government has already acted to support the industry, diverting an extra three billion euros ($3.2 billion) to a total of eight billion from Italys share of the EUs post-Covid recovery fund. At Fridays roundtable with ministers and agricultural groups, including representatives of the protesters, she agreed to extend an income tax exemption for farmers in force since 2017. Advertisement But the extension will only be for those on low incomes. Serious difficulty The government had initially planned to suspend the exemption altogether. Meloni told the meeting this was because it was unfair, and especially favoured large companies. This limited version of the exemption would help the most vulnerable, said a government source. The tractors in Rome Friday were part of a group of more than 300 that have been parked on the northern outskirts of the capital for several days, awaiting permission to enter the city. Advertisement EU policies are putting us in serious difficulty, Elia Fornai, a 26-year-old farmer from Tuscany, told AFP at the camp, where visiting journalists were treated to barbecues of local produce. We have no taste for protesting. We want to go home as soon as possible but with new programmes for a better future for agriculture. Advertisement The Italian farmers are not a homogenous group. They have no one clear leader. But many complain about imports of food from outside the EU that are not subject to the same regulations, and want tax cuts, including on fuel. The EU has pledged to be carbon neutral by 2050. Getting there implies massive adaptation by consumers and industry including agriculture, which emits 11 percent of the blocs global warming emissions. Advertisement With inputs from AFP. The US condemns electoral violence, restrictions on the exercise of human rights and fundamental freedoms, including attacks on media workers, and restrictions on access to the Internet and telecommunication services, State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller said Amidst allegations of vote rigging in the general elections held in Pakistan on Thursday, a State Department spokesperson said on Friday that the US is looking forward to timely, complete results that reflect the will of the people of the country. Millions of Pakistanis made their voices heard at the polls on February 8. We will work with the Pakistani government, regardless of political party, to advance our shared interests and strive to bolster democratic institutions and broaden political participation, State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller wrote on X. Advertisement Millions of Pakistanis made their voices heard at the polls on February 8. We will work with the Pakistani government, regardless of political party, to advance our shared interests and strive to bolster democratic institutions and broaden political participation. Matthew Miller (@StateDeptSpox) February 9, 2024 As per the latest data from the Election Commission of Pakistan, outcomes from 224 out of 265 constituencies have been announced. Independent candidates, largely backed by imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khans party, secured 92 seats, while the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz garnered 63 and the Pakistan Peoples Party obtained 50. Smaller parties clinched 19 seats in total. We now look forward to timely, complete results that reflect the will of the Pakistani people, Miller said in a statement. Advertisement The US is prepared to work with the next Pakistani government, regardless of political party, to advance our shared interests, he said, adding that the US looks forward to bolstering its partnership by supporting Pakistans economy through trade and investment. Millions of Pakistanis, he said, made their voices heard by voting in the elections on February 8. Advertisement We commend Pakistani poll workers, civil society, journalists and election observers for their work to protect and uphold Pakistans democratic and electoral institutions. We now look forward to timely, complete results that reflect the will of the Pakistani people, Miller said. The US joins credible international and local election observers in their assessment that these elections included undue restrictions on freedoms of expression, association, and peaceful assembly, he said. Advertisement The US condemns electoral violence, restrictions on the exercise of human rights and fundamental freedoms, including attacks on media workers, and restrictions on access to the Internet and telecommunication services, he said and expressed concern about allegations of interference in the electoral process. Claims of interference or fraud should be fully investigated, Miller said. Advertisement The United States, he said, will continue to support Pakistan in strengthening its democratic institutions, engage through the US-Pakistan Green Alliance Framework, broaden people-to-people ties, and promote human rights including freedom of expression. We are also committed to strengthening our security cooperation and creating an environment of safety and security that affords the Pakistani people the peace, democracy, and progress they deserve, Miller said. Advertisement Meanwhile, amid reports of rigging in Pakistan general elections conducted on February 8, the European Union has regretted the lack of a level playing field for leaders of all political parties referring to restrictions on former Prime Minister Imran Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party (PTI). As official results from Pakistan general elections showed independents backed by Imran Khan taking the lead, however, three-time former leader Nawaz Sharif has claimed his party emerging as leading the mandate. Advertisement With inputs from agencies. Israel says Rafah is the last remaining Hamas stronghold and it needs to send in troops to complete its war plan against the Islamic militant group. But an estimated 1.5 million Palestinians have crammed into the town after fleeing fighting elsewhere in Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the military to prepare a plan to evacuate the population of Rafah ahead of an expected Israeli invasion of the southern Gaza town. Netanyahus decision comes amidst international criticism regarding Israels intentions to enter the densely populated town on the border with Egypt. According to Netanyahu, Rafah is considered a significant stronghold for Hamas, and Israel deems it necessary to deploy troops there as part of its strategy against the militant group. However, with an estimated 1.5 million Palestinians currently residing in Rafah after fleeing conflict in other parts of Gaza, concerns over civilian safety have been raised. Advertisement Netanyahu has called for a massive operation in Rafah, emphasising the need for both civilian evacuation measures and military action against Hamas militants. He has instructed security officials to develop a detailed plan that encompasses these dual objectives. Earlier Friday, Israel bombed targets in Rafah. The attack took place hours after Biden administration officials and aid agencies warned Israel against expanding its Gaza ground offensive to the town where more than half of the territorys 2.3 million people have sought refuge. Airstrikes overnight and into Friday hit two residential buildings in Rafah, while two other sites were bombed in central Gaza, including one that damaged a kindergarten-turned-shelter for displaced Palestinians. Twenty-two people were killed, according to AP journalists who saw the bodies arriving at hospitals. U.S. President Joe Biden said Thursday that Israels conduct in the war, ignited by a deadly Oct. 7 Hamas attack, is over the top, the harshest U.S. criticism yet of its close ally and an expression of concern about a soaring civilian death toll in Gaza. Advertisement The Health Ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said Friday that the overall Palestinian death toll is now approaching 28,000, with about two-thirds women and children. The count does not distinguish between civilians and combatants. Israels stated intentions to expand its ground offensive to Rafah also prompted an unusual public backlash in Washington. We have yet to see any evidence of serious planning for such an operation, Vedant Patel, a State Department spokesman, said Thursday. Going ahead with such an offensive now, with no planning and little thought in an area where there is sheltering of a million people would be a disaster. Advertisement John Kirby, the National Security Council spokesperson, said an Israel ground offensive in Rafah is not something we would support. The comments signalled intensifying U.S. friction with Netanyahu, who pushed a message of total victory in the war this week, at a time when U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was in Israel to press for a cease-fire deal in exchange for the release of dozens of Hamas-held hostages. Advertisement Aid agency officials also sounded warnings over the prospect of a Rafah offensive. We need Gazas last remaining hospitals, shelters, markets and water systems to stay functional, said Catherine Russell, head of the U.N. childrens agency UNICEF. Without them, hunger and disease will skyrocket, taking more child lives. With the war now in its fifth month, Israeli ground forces are still focusing on the city of Khan Younis, just north of Rafah, but Netanyahu has repeatedly said Rafah will be next, creating panic among hundreds of thousands of displaced people. Advertisement Netanyahus words have also alarmed Egypt, which has said that any ground operation in the Rafah area or mass displacement across the border would undermine its 40-year-old peace treaty with Israel. The mostly sealed Gaza-Egypt border is also the main entry point for humanitarian aid. AIRSTRIKES OVERNIGHT Shortly after midnight Friday, a residential building was struck near Rafahs Kuwaiti Hospital, killing five people from the al-Sayed family, including three children and a woman. A second Rafah strike killed three more people. Advertisement Another overnight strike, in the central town of Deir al-Balah, claimed nine lives. Also in central Gaza, a strike hit near a kindergarten-turned-shelter, damaging the building. It killed five and wounded several more people. Witnesses said shelter residents were asleep at the time. A woman, carrying a small girl in her arms, shouted as she arrived at the local Al Aqsa Martyrs Hospital: What can we do? This is the work of the coward Zionist enemy that chooses innocent civilians. This girl is firing rockets at the Jews? May God help us. Advertisement Some of the wounded children were treated while lying on the floor. More than half of Gazas population has fled to Rafah, heeding Israeli evacuation orders ahead of the militarys continuously expanding ground offensive. Evacuation orders now cover two-thirds of the besieged territory, though an estimated 300,000 Palestinians remain in the northern half of Gaza, which civilians were ordered to leave early on in the war. Advertisement Even in areas of refuge, such as Rafah, Israel routinely launches air strikes against what it says are Hamas targets. It holds the militant group responsible for civilian casualties because it operates from civilian areas. WORKING FOR A CEASE-FIRE Israels 4-month-old air and ground offensive among the most destructive in recent history has killed 27,947 Palestinians and wounded more than 67,000, local health officials said Friday. The war has driven most people from their homes and pushed a quarter of the population toward starvation. Advertisement Biden has said he continues to work tirelessly to press Israel and Hamas to agree on an extended pause in fighting. A truce would be linked to the release of dozens of hostages, out of some 250 seized Oct. 7, and still believed to be in Hamas captivity. Netanyahu has rejected Hamas demands for a hostage deal, which includes an end to the war and the release of hundreds of veteran Palestinian prisoners serving long sentences in Israel for deadly attacks carried out as part of the long-running conflict. Netanyahu dismissed Hamas demands as delusional, even as Blinken said he believes continued negotiations, through mediators Egypt and Qatar, are possible. Advertisement Israels war goals appear increasingly elusive, as Hamas reemerges in parts of northern Gaza, which was the first target of the offensive and has seen widespread destruction. Israel has only rescued one hostage, while Hamas says several have been killed in airstrikes or failed rescue missions. With inputs from AP. A party must win 133 seats out of 265 in the National Assembly being contested to form the next government Jailed former prime minister Imran Khans party-backed independent candidates seemed to be gaining ground as the results Pakistan elections 2024 start trickling in following unusual delays that led to allegations of rigging. Votes are still being counted in Pakistan after general election on 8 February which was marred by allegations of rigging, sporadic violence and a countrywide mobile phone shutdown. Advertisement There were dozens of parties in the fray but the main contest was among Imran Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), whose candidates are running as independents, former three-time premier Nawaz Sharifs Pakistan Muslim League (N) and Bilawal Zardari Bhuttos Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). A party must win 133 seats out of 265 in the National Assembly being contested to form the next government. While around 11:30 am, Imran Khan-backed candidates were trailing with seven wins compared to PML-Ns 11, the tally was equal at 13 seats each by 2 pm. With inputs from PTI Nawaz Sharif bagged 1,07,124 votes, while PTIs Yasmin Rashid got 1,01,524 votes, making the PML-N supremo victorious on the NA-130 Lahore seat Pakistan Election Result 2024: Nawaz Sharif, former prime minister of Pakistan, has won in his constituency in Lahore by more than 55,000 votes. He defeated the Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) candidate Yasmin Rashid to get victory in the seat. According to a report by ARY News, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo bagged 1,07,124 votes, while Rashid got support of 1,01,524 voters, making Sharif victorious on the NA-130 Lahore seat. Advertisement Congratulatory messages started pouring in for Sharif after his victory in Lahore. pic.twitter.com/BQ3tO25saM Hina Parvez Butt (@hinaparvezbutt) February 9, 2024 Voting in Pakistan took place on Thursday, 8 February, amid tight security. By 11:20 am (local time), the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) announced 47 results for the 265 contested seats in the National Assembly, with Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) winning 17 and former prime minister Imran Khans PTI party leading on 14. Advertisement How many seats are there in Pakistan Parliament? Pakistan election 2024 was conducted for 266 National Assembly seats out of 336, but polling was postponed on at least one seat after a candidate was killed in a gun attack in Bajaur. The remaining 60 seats are reserved for women and 10 for minorities and are allotted to the winning parties based on proportional representation. Advertisement Win on how many needed to form government in Pakistan To form a government in Pakistan, a political party needs victory on 172 seats, Geo News report said. The party can have its own members or rope in other party candidates to get the majority in the house and form the government. With inputs from agencies Nawaz Sharifs PML-N was winning on 17 seats, while supporters of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan were leading on 14 As the counting of votes picks up in Pakistan after more than 12 hours of delay, anxiety and excitement continue to mount among people of the economic crisis-hit country. With the ballot boxes opening, the early poll results on Friday show former prime minister Nawaz Sharif-led party PML-N slightly ahead of Imran Khans PTI. Advertisement Till 11:00 am (local time), the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) announced 47 results for the 265 contested seats in the National Assembly. Sharifs Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) was victorious on 17 and supporters of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan won 14 seats. As many as 12 seats were won by the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the son of assassinated premier Benazir Bhutto, ECP said. The rest were won by small parties or non-aligned independents. Results on some of the seats were announced more than 18 hours after the voting ended, which has been unusual for elections in Pakistan. ECP special secretary Zafar Iqbal cited the internet issue as the main reason for the delay in poll results. Advertisement The Pakistan government had suspended mobile and internet services ahead of the voting on Thursday as a security measure. They were being partially restored. Key Battle in Pakistan The main battle in Pakistan was expected to be between candidates backed by Imran Khan, whose PTI won the last national election, and Nawaz Sharif-led PML-N. Advertisement Imran Khan believes the powerful military is behind a crackdown to hound his party out of existence, while analysts and opponents say Nawaz Sharif is being backed by the generals. The military has dominated the nuclear-armed country either directly or indirectly in its 76 years of independence but for several years it has maintained it does not interfere in politics. Advertisement With inputs from agencies Independents, most who owe allegiance to Imran Khan, had won on 47 of 106 seats for which the results have been announced Almost 24 hours have gone by, but a clear result of Pakistan elections 2024 is yet to be declared. The unusual delay in counting of votes are making people of the country anxious. Results of over 100 seats have been announced and supporters of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan had an edge, as per local media. Advertisement Independents, most who owe allegiance to Imran Khan, had won on 47 of 106 seats for which the results have been announced. In Pakistan polls 2024, voting was held for 266 National Assembly seats out of 336, but polling was postponed on at least one seat after a candidate was killed in a gun attack in Bajaur. The remaining 60 seats are reserved for women and 10 for minorities and are allotted to the winning parties based on proportional representation. Around 1 pm (local time) on Friday, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) had announced 70 official results, with independents getting 24. Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) led by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, son of assassinated premier Benazir Bhutto, won on 24, while former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharifs Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) bagged 18 seats. Advertisement The remaining seats were won by small parties. Imran Khan is in jail and his party - Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)- was barred from contesting the election, so his supporters contested as independents. No clear winner Analysts fear that there may be no clear winner, adding to the woes of the economic-crisis hit nation which is already grappling with rising terrorist activities in a deeply polarised political environment. Advertisement A timely announcement of the results, leading to a smooth formation of a new government will reduce policy and political uncertainty, Reuters quoted Moodys Investors Service as saying. This is crucial for the country that is facing very challenging macroeconomic conditions. it added Usual delay in Pakistan poll results The delay in the announcement of results was unusual for elections in Pakistan. Advertisement The government ascribed the delay to a suspension of mobile phone services. An internet issue was the reason behind the delay, Zafar Iqbal, special secretary at the ECP, said without elaborating. The government had suspended mobile and internet services ahead of the election on 8 February as a security measure, and they were being partially restored. Advertisement Meanwhile, Karachis stock index and Pakistans sovereign bonds fell because of the uncertainty. With inputs from agencies Russian President Vladimir Putin said The special services are in contact with one another. They are talking I believe an agreement can be reached Vladimir Putin said he is open to releasing jailed US journalist Evan Gershkovich, awaiting trial on spying charges, in exchange for a Russian assassin Vadim Krasikov serving a life sentence in Germany. Krasikov killed a former Chechen rebel in a Berlin park in 2019. US officials have said Russia has raised his case in prisoner swap negotiations. Advertisement The comments by Putin were made during an interview with US host Tucker Carlson, during which he said: I believe an agreement can be reached There have been many successful examples of these talks crowned with success. Probably this is going to be crowned with success as well but we have to come to an agreement. The special services are in contact with one another. They are talking I believe an agreement can be reached, he added. I do not rule out that the person you refer to, Mr Gershkovich, may return to his motherland, Putin said. We want the US special services to think about how they can contribute to achieving the goals our special services are pursuing," the Russian president said. Advertisement Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter, was arrested on 29 March 2023, during a reporting trip in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg, and was accused of trying to obtain Russian defence secrets. The Russian authorities, without any evidence, had claimed that Gershkovich had been tasked by the American side with gathering information on the activities of one of the enterprises of the military-defence complex. Advertisement The 32-year-old reporter and his newspaper, however, have strongly rejected the spying allegations, with the US government designating him as wrongfully detained. In January this year, a Moscow court extended Gershkovichs custody by two months. Notably, he is the first Western reporter to be jailed on spying charges in Russia since the Soviet era. Advertisement With inputs from agencies In January this year, Germanys Defence Minister Boris Pistorius cautioned that an increasingly confrontational Russian President Vladimir Putin might potentially target the NATO military alliance within the next ten years. The Danish defence minister Troels Lund Poulsen said that Denmark should accelerate its military investments following recent intelligence suggesting that Russia is rearming at a quicker pace than anticipated. There are concerns that Russia could potentially launch an attack on a NATO country within the next three to five years, he said. Advertisement In the aftermath of Russias extensive invasion of Ukraine, the Kremlin has intensified its hostile rhetoric towards neighbouring countries, including NATO members such as the Baltic states, Poland, and Moldova. This escalation has led European defence leaders to highlight the looming threat of a significant conflict. The changed threat assessment comes after other European NATO countries have made similar warnings in recent weeks. Russias capacity to produce military equipment has increased tremendously, Defence Minister Poulsen told they Jyllands-Posten newspaper. It cannot be ruled out that within a three- to five-year period, Russia will test Article 5 and NATOs solidarity. That was not NATOs assessment in 2023. This is new knowledge that is coming to the fore now, he said. Advertisement In January this year, Germanys Defence Minister Boris Pistorius cautioned that an increasingly confrontational Russian President Vladimir Putin might potentially target the NATO military alliance within the next ten years. Poulsen said there is no direct threat against Denmark but the alliance could face hybrid attacks in efforts to destabilize a member country. Advertisement Russia potentially has the will to do so. Now they can also have the ability to have a military capability earlier than we expected. There is reason to be genuinely concerned, he said. With inputs from Reuters. The Veterans Administration is the second largest U.S. government agency with over 400,000 employees at VA medical hospitals and clinics and benefit offices throughout the country. The health care system alone employs more than 370,000 health care professionals and staff. Their missionto provide health care and oversee benefits programs for the nations 16 million veterans -is a daunting one and not without its challenges. Lion Dick Laisure, an Army veteran himself and former VA employee, recently spoke to the Enterprise Lions Club about the VA. After being medically retired from the Army, Laisure found himself working with the VA in vocational rehabilitation. He set up offices locally and then moved on to other locations, eventually working as a Director of Records at the St. Louis National Personnel Records Center, which houses records for millions of veterans who served during the 20th century. Laisure reported that until 2017, those files existed in paper form only, but the files were digitized just in time for the Covid pandemic. Therefore, he said, the agency was able to continue working online when everything else was shut down for two months. The VA, Laisure noted, is basically three different administrations. The VA Health Administration is the largest with nearly 400,000 employees. The health care professionals and supporting staff are employed at 171 VA medical centers and 1100 outpatient clinics across the country. Providing quality and timely health care for the millions of veterans needing the service is an incredible challenge, and one the Government Accountability Office has addressed to the VA. Recruiting and retaining qualified medical professionals, providing appropriate mental health care, and meeting the needs of a continuously growing number of veterans are some of the areas that the GAO advised the VA to address, according to its website. Laisure reported that the VA Health Care System allows veterans who have limited financial means and likely no health insurance to receive health care at no cost to them. The VA Benefits Administration is the second of the three branches of the VA, with 28,000 employees. These individuals are employed throughout the country to assist veterans in applying for and receiving benefits they may be entitled to. Most people are aware that veterans may apply for disability benefits, and this is a complicated process that most veterans need assistance with to complete. Laisure recommended going to the VA website (VA.gov) for information on how, where, and when to apply for benefits. In addition, Veterans Service Officers are available to help service members navigate the process. Applications for disability benefits require that medical evidence be gathered and evaluated and rated by trained employees in regional offices located in every state. The program is nationalized, so that if one office is overwhelmed with applications, another office can step up and help. The PACT Act recently opened the door for veterans who served in Thailand during the Viet Nam era, the Gulf War, and Post 911 conflicts to apply or reapply for benefits they were previously ineligible for. This has added a large number of claims to the ones already in the pipeline awaiting approval by the VA. Veterans are entitled to a wide range of benefits ranging from financial remuneration to pensions, educational benefits, life insurance, burial assistance, home loans, and vocational rehab, to name a few. Laisure also recommended contacting your local VA office for information and help in filing claims. Accredited representatives at local American Legion offices, Disabled America Veterans chapters, and Veterans of Foreign Wars organizations can also provide assistance. According to Laisure, the VA also has housing available for veterans and can help them train for jobs and provide an identification card. The VA also works with local police departments to help them understand how to interact with veterans with PTSD. In addition, in Veterans Court, a judge can refer a veteran to a treatment program rather than handing down a jail sentence. If the vet completes the program and remains clean, his record will be cleared. The third arm of the VA is the National Cemetery Administration. Any veteran in good standing is eligible to be buried in one of these cemeteries. The VA provides the burial plot and a headstone; there may be financial benefits depending on the veterans status at the time of death. The VA maintains 155 cemeteries located in 42 states; you can visit their website to locate a cemetery near you at cem.va.gov. Laisure wanted to be sure the audience knew about the new suicide hotline for veterans. 988 is the number for the VA suicide hotline, and it is manned 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Laisure reported that female suicide among veterans is much higher than in the civilian female population, and the method of committing suicide is very often a firearm, more so than among civilian suicides. In conclusion, Laisure stressed the three ways to contact the VA for help: Call 1-800-827-1000; visit the website VA.gov; or visit your local VA office. And in case you are wondering, the largest employer of the federal government is the Department of Defense, with nearly 3 million employees, including active-duty military, national guard and reserves, and civilian employees. The Enterprise Lions Club meets weekly on Wednesdays at the Enterprise Civic Center. Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m. followed by a brief business meeting and a guest speaker. Guests are welcome to attend. The visit comes after Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin met north of Vladivostok in September and pledged closer economic and military cooperation amid charges by Washington that Pyongyang was helping Putin in the war in Ukraine. A group of Russian tourists on Friday made their way to North Korea, marking the first group from any nation to visit the reclusive state following the COVID-19 pandemic in a landmark trip summed up by the Russian embassy as Pyongyang opens its door. This tour highlights the growing collaboration between the two countries, particularly evident after a meeting last September between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin at a cosmodrome in Russias Far East. Advertisement With travel restrictions limiting Russians access to Europe and the United States due to sanctions imposed on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine, many are exploring alternative vacation destinations. In October, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov expressed his endorsement of North Korea as a potential travel destination. North Korea shuttered its borders with some of the tightest restrictions during the pandemic, in one incident shooting dead a South Korean who floated unauthorized into its waters. An Air Koryo flight, operated by North Korea with an ageing fleet of mostly Russian-made aircraft, carried the 100 visitors to the Pyongyang International Airport, the Russian embassy said in a Facebook post on Friday. The group included people in the tourism business and travellers from literally all parts of Russia from Kaliningrad to Vladivostok who will spend four days taking in sights in the North including a major ski resort, it said. Advertisement We will look forward to new encounters with tourists from Russia! it said. The ski resort it mentioned was a high-profile development project spearheaded by North Koreas leader Kim Jong Un after he took power in 2011. South Koreas Yonhap news agency earlier cited Russias Tass news agency as saying that 97 Russians, including teen ski athletes, departed from Russias far eastern city of Vladivostok on the first group tour to North Korea since the pandemic. Advertisement The visit comes after Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin met north of Vladivostok in September and pledged closer economic and military cooperation amid charges by Washington that Pyongyang was helping Putin in the war in Ukraine. With inputs from agencies. The practice, the airline believes, will allow authorities to gauge weight estimates before a plane takes off as well as identify those who try to sneak in extra carry-ons onto the aircraft Dont be surprised if you are weighed at the airport along with your baggage because a new regulation is currently being tested out by European carrier Finnair at its Helsinki Airport hub where volunteers are being weighed before departure. The practice, the airline believes, will allow authorities to gauge weight estimates before a plane takes off as well as identify those who try to sneak in extra carry-ons onto the aircraft. Advertisement Talking to CNN, Finnairs senior vice president of communications, Paivyt Tallqvist said that the weighing-ins are completely anonymous and are not linked with passengers data or tickets. The trials started on Monday and by Thursday morning, 800 volunteers had already signed up for the trials. We have communicated about this survey to Finnair customers via our social media channels and our mobile app, and the first volunteers were proactively asking to take part even before the equipment was set up, Tallqvist said. Finnair is aiming to weigh 1,200 passengers over the winters and more during the summers. Describing the impetus behind the trials, Tallqvist said after weighing the volunteers, officers would collate the data about the average weight of passengers and their carry-ons for the purpose of aircraft balance and performance calculations that are needed for the safe operation of flights. Advertisement This is, however, not the first time, an airline has conducted such a trial. In 2023, both Korean Air and Air New Zealand conducted their own weight surveys. After it collects data for both summers and winters, Finnair will send its data to the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency for verification. The North African country has been in a war since April last year when Sudans army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, his former deputy and commander of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces sparked a conflict, resulting in the death of thousands of people Sudans prolonged war can risk leaving over 70,000 children severely malnourished in 2024, the United Nations on Friday said adding that tens of thousands of children can die if aid is not increased. UNs children agency UNICEF has urged the world not to turn a blind eye to the predicament of people in Sudan that has been triggered by a 10-month-long civil war. Advertisement The consequences of the past 300 days means that more than 700,000 children are likely to suffer from the deadliest form of malnutrition this year, spokesman James Elder told reporters in Geneva. We wont be able to treat more than 300,000 of them without improved access and additional support, said Elder, just back from a trip to Sudan. The North African country has been in a war since April last year when Sudans army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, his former deputy and commander of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces sparked a conflict, resulting in the death of thousands of people. Out of this estimate, about 10,000 to 15,000 people have been killed in a single city in the western Darfur region. Advertisement UN estimates suggest that more than half the population in Sudan requires aid. The war has also triggered a humanitarian crisis in the country with nearly 18 million left to face acute food shortages. More trouble in Sudans way? The recent revelations by the UN shed light on the dilapidated socioeconomic conditions in Sudan. Advertisement Soaring malnutrition, coupled with the rampant spread of diseases like cholera, measles and malaria, means children are already dying. Findings by a charity called Doctors Without Borders say that at least one child dies every two hours in Sudans Zamzam camp for displaced people in Darfur. The war has triggered one of the worlds largest displacement crises. Nearly eight million people have fled their homes, half of them children. Advertisement Thats 13,000 children every single day for 300 days, Elder pointed out. He said there had also been a 500-percent increase in just one year in murders, sexual violence and recruitment of children to fight. That equates to terrifying numbers of children killed, raped or recruited. And these numbers are the tip of the iceberg, Elder said, reiterating the urgent need for a ceasefire, and for more aid. Advertisement With inputs from AFP What happens if there is no clear winner in Pakistan? What will Pakistans parliament look like? Heres what speculation in the political circle points to As the votes are counted in Pakistan after 8 Februarys general election marred by allegations of rigging, sporadic violence and a nationwide internet shutdown, the big question some are asking is what if its a hung Parliament? While it may be too early to call the race for any party, initial results do suggest that no party may be a clear winner. Advertisement Voting was held for 265 out of the 266 general seats of the National Assembly and 590 of the 593 general seats of the provincial assemblies. The main battle, as expected, is between candidates backed by former Prime Minister Imran Khan and the PML-N of former PM Nawaz Sharif. However, PTI-backed independents seem to be doing better than expected, though Sharifs party still has an edge. Before the elections, analysts had also predicted that there may be no clear winner in the elections. According to the current projections, PML-N is expected to secure 80 to 90 seats, Bilawal Bhuttos PPP around 60, and PTI-backed independents around 40. While the political uncertainty and no clear winner may be bad news for the country, it may be exactly what the countrys powerful military wanted. The results may help the military generals keep Nawaz Sharif, who has previously challenged their authority, in check. Advertisement The two big parties PML-N and PPP may be asked to come together to form the government. That could also mean Nawazs brother Shehbaz may return in the role of prime minister. Some reports suggest that if that happens, this is what Pakistans next cabinet could look like. President: A PPP appointee Advertisement Prime Minister: From PML-N (if it gets good numbers) Chairman Senate: PML-N Ahsan Iqbal of PML-N: Finance Minister Punjab Province: PML-N and CM Maryam Nawaz, Aleem Khan likely to be senior minister Sindh Province: PPP Balochistan Province: Coalition government Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Power sharing with PTI independents However, till the final results are declared, and the military has disclosed its cards, everything is speculation. OZARK The Alabama Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Fort Novosel Garrison Commander recently partnered to re-celebrate a monument to the namesake of Hooper Stagefield on Andrews Avenue in Ozark. The ceremony, hosted by Fort Novosel Garrison Commander Col. John P. Miller, was the culmination of an almost four-year-long hunt for a lost Penny Pines Forest and the monument dedicated to the memory of 1st Lt. Ono David Hooper, a World War I hero. The Alabama Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution State Regent Patrice R. Donnelly presided over a celebration at Hooper Stagefield. How apt the DAR forest was planted on land that would become a military base, as one of the mission areas of the DAR is patriotism, she said, praising service members and the Army. The stone that holds the memorial plaque dedicated to the memory of 1st Lt. Hooper is steadfast, dedicated, and unwavering just like the soldiers of the United States Army, she said. Today, we celebrate this marker. We also celebrate the brave men and women who answer their countrys call to serve and defend our liberties, and we must never forget all they do to ensure our freedom. Mary Lewey, DAR State Registrar, shared the history of the Penny Pines Forest, a reforestation project by the Civilian Conservation Corps and the U.S. Forest Service, to revitalize national forests that had been over-harvested, devastated by fires, and had little replanting. Lewey said that the DAR President General at the time, Mrs. Henry Robert, chose the Penny Pine program as her Golden Jubilee National Project on the National Society of the DAR 50th Anniversary in 1941. Each chapter was tasked with planting at least one acre of forest in their state, at a cost of one penny per tree, hence the name Penny Pines Forest. The forests were dedicated to DAR members or patriots of the time. The Alabama Penny Pines Forest was planted on the Daleville Highway, four miles west of Ozark, according to a Southern Star news article dated June 5, 1941. The DAR sponsored 43,000 long leaf and slash pine seedlings, meant to grow into a living memorial for. Hooper. This forest preceded the Ozark Triangular Division Camp and Camp Rucker which wasnt officially opened until May 1, 1942, and the stagefield, which was not built until 1955-1956. Donnelly said that one of the projects of the current DAR was to find the Alabama Penny Pines Forests, an endeavor that began in July 2020. Research revealed that the DAR unveiled a monument on June 6, 1941, high on a hill overlooking the crystal water of Lake Tholoccodedicated Penny Pines Memorial Forest in honor of the late Lt. Ono D. Hooper, hero of the first World War. This led their search to Fort Novosel, where they worked with former U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence Historian Ken Tilley to find out more of the history. Donnelly then challenged the Emassee-Robert Grierson DAR Chapter to find this forest and marker. Lisa Bonnell, a member of the chapter, said she was intrigued with the challenge as she was familiar with the post and the area near the Ozark gate, having spent many summers here with her aunt and uncle, who was a pilot at then Fort Rucker. Bonnell contacted Bob Mitchell, the director of the U.S. Army Aviation Museum, who drove out to Hooper and found the lost monument, which was not exactly lost, but, sadly, just forgotten. A visit to Hooper Stagefield by the Emassee-Robert Grierson Chapter members to see and photograph the monument in January 2023 set the idea for a celebration in motion. Ono David Hooper was born near Marietta, Georgia on Nov. 14, 1881. He was the son of a Confederate soldier, Thomas Marion Hooper. Hooper tried to enlist in the Army during the Spanish War but was too young at the time. Hooper volunteered for and was commissioned into the Army when he was 34 years old. He served in the 38th US Infantry, Third Division, American Expeditionary Forces during World War I. According to the news reports of the time and the monument inscription, Hooper fought in the battles of the second Marne, the Battle of Saint Mihiel, and the Meuse-Argonne Offensive in which he was gravely wounded. He also received mustard gas wounds in the Battle of Chateau Thierry. He was awarded the Order of the Purple Heart, the Croix-De-Guerre with star, and the Distinguished Service Cross for his bravery, according to the Southern Star article from June 12, 1941. At the initial dedication of the monument on June 6, 1941, a telegram was read from two of Hoopers fellow lieutenants from the 38th Infantry, Clarence E. Lovejoy and Robert W. Doye. The telegram said, Lieutenant Hooper, our beloved battalion comrade, was a cheerful, willing soldier and believed strongly in the complete justice of his cause and was gloriously happy in his countrys cause. In Argonne, armed only with a pistol, he singlehandedly subdued and capture a German machine gun crew. Hoopers wife, Kathleen Curtis Tully Hooper, was a longtime member of the Alabama Society of the DAR Lewis Chapter in Eufaula, her hometown. She served in numerous leadership roles within the DAR such as Chapter Regent, National Defense State Chair, and State Parliamentarian. At the time of the dedication of the Penny Pines Forest, Mrs. Hooper was serving as the State Conversation Chair. According to his obituary, Hooper died on Sep. 14, 1936 at age 54, at his home in Eufaula. He is buried in Arlington National Cemetery in Section 7. Mrs. Hooper died on Aug. 30, 1979, and is buried with her husband in Arlington. Australia is poised to enact a new legislation granting employees the right to disregard unreasonable communications from their superiors outside of working hours, a move likely to draw global attention and perhaps envy from workers worldwide. This right to disconnect forms a pivotal component of sweeping changes to industrial relations laws proposed by the Australian federal government through a parliamentary bill. The Labor party has declared that the bill has garnered support from the majority of senators. Ben Thompson, Co-Founder and CEO, Employment Hero: The proposed changes to industrial relations laws, particularly the right to disconnect, cast light on a very important topic. Work-life balance. While its critical to recognise that tech and communication tools have blurred the lines between work and personal time, its important to remember that flexibility can go both ways. Flexible work arrangements have provided employees with a greater sense of control and autonomy. The ability to adapt work hours to accommodate personal needs or preferences has been a significant benefit for many workers, particularly in the context of remote work and caregiving responsibilities. However, its crucial to ensure that this flexibility does not inadvertently lead to employees working more hours than they are compensated for. Clear and open communication is key to navigating this terrain. Employers and employees must engage in open dialogue to clarify expectations around availability outside traditional work hours. Employers can prepare policies around tech use outside of agreed working hours and encourage boundary setting. This includes the understanding that, unless expressly stated, after-hours communication does not warrant an immediate response. A balanced approach is required one that respects employees rights to disconnect while preserving the advantages of flexible work and creating less complexity for managers. Under the proposed legislation, employees feeling unduly contacted or pressured can address the issue with their employer initially. Should the matter remain unresolved, they have the option to escalate it to the Fair Work Commission, potentially resulting in fines for non-compliance by the employer. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese champions these changes, asserting they will safeguard workers rights and foster a healthier work-life balance. What we are simply saying is that someone who isnt being paid 24 hours a day shouldnt be penalized if theyre not online and available 24 hours a day, Albanese explained to reporters. The bill has also gained support from opposition quarters. The left-wing Greens initially proposed similar legislation last year. Barbara Pocock, the Greens spokesperson on workplace relations, emphasizes that the intention is not to disrupt existing arrangements but rather empower vulnerable workers to voice their concerns without fear of repercussions. Greens leader Adam Bandt echoes this sentiment, stressing that time away from work should not be at the discretion of employers. Australians work an average of six weeks unpaid overtime each year. That equated to more than A$92 billion ($60.13 billion) in unpaid wages across the economy. That time is yours. Not your boss, Bandt asserted on social media. Currently, analogous laws granting employees the right to disconnect exist in countries such as France, Spain, and other European Union nations, allowing workers to switch off their official devices after work hours. Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. 20h45 Noel, a French man, and his Vietnamese friend Tran Van Chien prepared a Lunar New Year meal on Friday, an activity that Noel greatly enjoys. "I have come to Vietnam to celebrate Tet with my friends for 14 years. I love the Tet atmosphere and the dishes here. I wish everyone a happy new year," he said. Noel (L) says he enjoys the Tet celebrations in Vietnam. Photo by Le Tan In the southern beach town Vung Tau, Sergey Velentinovich, a Russian man, and his family came out on the streets to observe Tet decorations and take commemorative photos on the last day of the lunar new year. They bought a small pot of flower, jam and a Vietnamese sticky rice cake. Sergey works for Vietsopetro and has spent over 12 years living in Vung Tau. He said Tet is a beautiful holiday, and everyone, especially his Vietnamese colleagues, are excited to see it arrive. He has been invited by coworkers to Tet parties, and received gifts of traditional Tet food. In return, he and his wife also provided signature Russian food and invited people over to enjoy. Sergey has also prepared "lucky money" envelopes to gift his guests on the first day of the Lunar New Year. "I hope that in the Year of the Dragon, everyone in Vietnam would be happier and luckier. So is my family." Russian experts have come to Vung Tau to work in petrochemicals over the last 40 years. They mostly live in a five-story apartment complex on Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, a place often called by locals as a "Russian village", with over 900 people living there. Streetwise: Fountains of the Western Neighborhoods by Frank Dunnigan February 2024 The development of the western portion of San Francisco was well underway by the early 1900s. In addition to basic amenities (utilities, paved roadways, street lighting, and fire suppression), city planners, housing developers, and others all contributed additional amenities, including public fountains, in their plans. Here are just a few such installations that dot the local landscape. ST. FRANCIS WOOD #1 The fountain located in the intersection of St. Francis Boulevard and Santa Ana Way predates most of the surrounding homes. Shown here in 1915, and still operational today, it was a public amenity installed by the real estate developer and is still maintained by the neighborhood association. ST. FRANCIS WOOD #2 A multi-level fountain designed with octagonal basins, planters, stairs, and a retaining wall was installed at the top of St. Francis Boulevard by the developer of St. Francis Wood in 1916. Shown here in 1920, the fountain gradually fell into some disrepair, but was eventually refurbished by the St. Francis Homes Association in 2008, and is open to the public with nearby bench seating added. PHOEBE APPERSON HEARST FOUNTAIN Built in 1926 following the 1919 death of philanthropist Phoebe Apperson Hearst, the fountain honors the suffragist and mother of newspaper publisher William Randolph Hearst. The fountain, shown here adjacent to the Golden Gate Park Music Concourse in 1960, has operated sporadically in recent times. ACADEMY OF SCIENCES/STEINHART AQUARIUM Shown here in 1971, Robert Boardman Howard's sculpture "The Whales" at the center of this fountain was originally on display at the Golden Gate International Exposition (GGIE), held on Treasure Island in 1939-40. After the fair ended, the artwork was stored near the horse stables in Golden Gate Park. Thought to be an appropriate tie-in at the Steinhart Aquarium, the fountain was modified in the early 1950s to make the whales the centerpiece. The fountain once held live sea lions at the time of the Aquariums 1923 opening. In advance of the rebuilding of the entire Academy of Sciences complex early in this millennium, the fountain was removed and the whales were placed in a storage yard near City College of San Francisco. Unfortunately, there was significant damage to the artwork during the course of that move, and all the components have now been relocated to a storage facility in the East Bay, awaiting restoration funding and a new placement site. SUTRO HEIGHTS The grounds of Adolph Sutros home at Sutro Heights above the Cliff House were willed to San Francisco upon the 1938 death of his daughter, Dr. Emma Sutro Merritt. Shown here in 1900, the many works of art statues, planters, fountains were removed by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) shortly after the citys Recreation & Parks Department acquired the property. APPLE CIDER PRESS This sculpture on Golden Gate Parks Music Concourse, designed by Thomas Shields Clark (1860-1920), originally housed a drinking fountain. It was part of the Midwinter Fair of 1894 and later acquired for the people of San Francisco by M.H. DeYoung. Its shown here in 1900 being used by two girls. The metal drinking cups that were once chained to the basin at the front of the fountain have long-since been removed for sanitary reasons. The water component was shown to still be active as of 1960, but the fountain has been disconnected from its water source and has remained dry for many years now. TEMPLE EMANU-EL This photo shows the fountain in the courtyard of Temple Emanu-El, at Arguello Boulevard and Lake Street, circa 1960. In the summer of 2023, the fountain was temporarily removed to allow for a large-scale renovation project that includes earthquake retrofitting, asbestos abatement, and construction of additional office space beneath the courtyard, while preserving historic artifacts and many of the original building materials. The entire courtyard and fountain are scheduled to be back in place in advance of the buildings 100th anniversary in 2026. ENTRADA COURT Built as part of the Ingleside Terraces development in 1913-14, the Entrada Court sundial originally contained two mechanical seals in a lighted center pool of water that was fed by a fountain, in what surely must have been a maintenance headache. Research indicates that the center fountain and its lights were gone by 1918, the area filled with soil by the 1920s and long-since surfaced with painted concrete. Read more about the sundial in this WNP article by Hamilton Barrett. MONKEY ISLAND Built as a Federal WPA project at the San Francisco Zoo in 1935, Monkey Island was a fountain and waterfall paradise to more than 40 spider monkeys and a favorite viewing spot for zoo visitors over the years. The 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake caused damage that was estimated to require more than $500,000 in repairs. When that factor was combined with a trend to feature more natural habitats for the animals, the decision was made to demolish Monkey Island in 1995 and to transfer its residents to a new, more outdoorsy living space within the Zoo. RIDEOUT FOUNTAIN The Rideout Fountain was installed in the Music Concourse of Golden Gate Park in 1924, thanks to a bequest in the will of Corinna Rideout, whose family owned a chain of banks near the Northern California city of Marysville. Its composition includes images of a fight between a saber-toothed tiger and a snake, shown here in 1960 with the old de Young Museum in the background. In poor repair since early in this millennium, some of the fountains damage actually dated back to the World War I era. Restoration and repairs were completed and the fountain was once again operational by 2010. Contribute your own stories about western neighborhoods places! "Tam ve yeu thuong" (Ticket of Love) from Chicilon Media supports Tet travel ticket costs for 150 students at the University of Commerce and Hanoi University of Pharmacy. On the last few days before Tet, many people rushed to buy things and returned to their hometowns. But among them, there were many students who could not afford bus tickets home. Sympathizing with this situation, on Jan. 30-31, Chicilon Media launched the charity program "Ticket of Love," helping students to reunite with their families during this year's Lunar New Year. A Chicilon Media representative said that since 2015, when the "Spring Bus" activity first took place, the company has helped more than 3,000 students from universities in the north and south return to their hometown during Tet. At the giving ceremony, Truong Thi Thu Huyen, a representative of Chicilon Media, presented gifts and wishes to the schools representatives and students. Bus tickets are given to students in difficult situations. Photo courtesy of Chicilon Media "In the past two years, many students have not been able to return home due to high ticket prices. But with the help of Chicilon Media, their path home to celebrate Tet has become much more convenient," said a representative of the University of Commerce. Student Xuan Truong of Hanoi University of Pharmacy, from Nghe An, sent his thanks to the sponsor. Truong said that for students who go to school far away from home, each bus ticket back home is precious, curing homesickness and the longing to see relatives. Students at Hanoi University of Pharmacy receive support from Chicilon Media. Photo courtesy of Chicilon Media Chicilon Media makes its mark through business activities on building elevator communication channel platforms. The company has actively participated in many community activities in Vietnam, demonstrating the role model and social responsibility of one of the leading enterprises in the industry. Continuing the success of previous years, the program "Ticket of Love" has received widespread attention. Guo Zhi Feng, Chairman of Chicilon Media, said that implementing social responsibility is the basic business philosophy of the company. Through these activities, the company can spread positive energy, motivating other businesses to build a more beautiful country, Guo said. Despite undeniable evidence that climate change is an existential threat that causes disasters around the world, we are not doing enough to prepare people to weather increasingly more severe climate shocks. Indeed, many communities around the world are wholly unprepared to adapt to destruction of infrastructure, crops, and livelihoods. To help prepare communities for climate shocks and build their resilience, President Biden initiated PREPARE, the Presidents Emergency Plan for Adaptation and Resilience. Leading the charge are the State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development, or USAID. The problem of identifying the highest priority solutions is complex, because they differ by place: adapting to increasing floods requires very different solutions than adapting to crippling heat waves, for example, said USAID Administrator Samantha Power. Nearly two decades ago, USAID teamed up with NASA to create a program called SERVIR, which helps countries understand the very particular risks that extreme weather variability poses for them. Today, SERVIR uses satellite imagery across 50 countries to deliver advanced projections and real-time data on everything from floods to forest fires to potential breeding grounds for crop-destroying locusts. And it offers tools to predict longer-term trends in things like crop yields and droughts. On January 30, Administrator Power announced that USAID will commit an additional $11 million, to SERVIR. This data will not just help guide immediate lifesaving action, but it will forecast long-term needs to help countries prioritize solutions. USAID is also encouraging innovative thinking. Innovation to strengthen climate resilience, however, is currently lagging. And we need to change that, said Administrator Power. For example, increasing levels of drought can have catastrophic implications for global food security. We have invested in foundational research with university partners to develop new drought-tolerant seeds and growing techniques. We have given grants to agriculture companies and to universities to develop seeds for staple crops like corn and rice that can better withstand drier climates, she said. And through the Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils so called VACS we are extending that work alongside the State Department and African researchers to create more resilient versions of indigenous crops like cowpea and millet as well. The more we can harness ideas and capital from around the world to help jumpstart innovations like these, said Administrator Power, the faster that we can build affordable solutions to keep climate disasters from shocking our systems. The United States has supported peace efforts in Africa for decades through its bilateral and multilateral diplomacy, and by supporting humanitarian access and protection of vulnerable populations through peacekeeping, said Jonathan Pratt, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, in recent Congressional testimony. The United States has made significant financial contributions to the United Nations, which has undertaken a number of peacekeeping missions in Africa to provide help in challenging situations, explained Deputy Assistant Secretary Pratt. These missions have helped safeguard civilian populations from armed groups and warring parties, despite shortcomings and specific instances of unacceptable conduct by some peacekeepers, he said. Today, we are seeing a desire from African leaders and the African Union to take the lead on peacekeeping efforts, said Deputy Assistant Secretary Pratt. U.N. Security Council Resolution 2719 shifts peacekeeping responsibility to African partners, with financial support from the United Nations. An essential element of UN, African Union, and subregional missions is that they include safeguards designed to promote respect for human rights, protection of civilians and humanitarian access, said Deputy Assistant Secretary Pratt: AU and subregional missions have demonstrated a capacity to mobilize quickly, especially when provided with adequately financed and reliable logistical support mechanisms. Over time, we're seeing a trend towards subregional and bilateral missions because of their ability to respond quickly, as well as address countries national interest in combating instability in their neighborhood. It is important that missions adhere to their mandates and international law, stressed Deputy Assistant Secretary Pratt. We have developed best practices for oversight and accountability mechanisms to ensure private contractors adhere to policy direction and comply with legal standards, said Deputy Assistant Secretary Pratt: In contrast, this is not what Russia's Wagner Group is or does in the countries where Wagner is present. We have seen the number of terrorist attacks and attacks on civilians increase, accompanied by a decrease in humanitarian access, as well as an increase in reports of human rights abuses. The United States remains committed to advancing democracy, peace, and security as cornerstones for a successful U.S. Africa partnership. Saturday Night Partly cloudy skies early followed by mostly cloudy skies and a few showers later at night. Low 42F. Winds S at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 50%. Two indicted for publishing fake presidential election polls ROC Central News Agency 02/08/2024 09:33 PM Taipei, Feb. 8 (CNA) Two men have been indicted for publishing fake polls before Taiwan's Jan. 13 presidential election under the instruction of Chinese officials, for which they received funding, according to the Taichung District Prosecutors Office. In the indictment issued on Wednesday, the office said a 52-year-old man identified as Lin (), a journalist, and a 62-year-old man surnamed Su (), a retired associate professor from a Taichung-based university, were indicted for violating the Anti-infiltration Act and the Presidential and Vice Presidential Election and Recall Act. According to prosecutors' findings, Lin attended a funded sightseeing trip in Xiamen from April 20-23 last year on the invitation of the Fujian Daily, which is run by the Fujian provincial committee of the Communist Party of China. Su was asked by Lin to accompany him. After returning to Taiwan, Lin was instructed by the Chinese side to set up a media company in Taichung and produce and publish fake poll results online in a bid to shape public opinion in the runup to the Jan. 13 presidential election, prosecutors said. It was discovered that Lin had tasked Su to fabricate 10 polls regarding Taiwan's 2024 presidential election, for which Su received NT$1.5 million (US$47,770). In October 2023, Su fabricated eight surveys and Lin's media company published the results. In a bid to manipulate and sway public opinion in the tight three-way race, one poll fabricated by Su said the Kuomintang presidential ticket had 33.05 percent of support, ahead of the Democratic Progressive Party at 32.19 percent and the Taiwan People's Party at 18.38 percent. Prosecutors said Lin had received over 130,000 Chinese yen in funding from the Chinese side and discussed poll presentation methods with them. While the polls were being fabricated, Lin also allegedly exchanged texts with a man named Chen Binhua (), who has the same name as the spokesman for China's Taiwan Affairs Office. However, prosecutors said they were unable to authenticate his identity. Lin and Su were arrested and detained following prosecutors' searches of their workplaces and homes on Dec. 21, 2023. Evidence, such as smartphones, computers, and materials related to the polls, was seized. After hearing the case, the Taichung District Court on Wednesday allowed for the release of Lin and Su on bail of NT$350,000 and NT$250,000, respectively. However, they were banned from changing their abode and leaving the country, prosecutors added. (By Flor Wang and Su Mu-chun) Enditem/kb NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Five Eyes alliance smears China for hacking to cover up for itself: FM Global Times By Global Times Published: Feb 08, 2024 09:03 PM The Five Eyes alliance's repeated smearing and attacking China are merely to cover up the basic fact that the grouping itself is "the largest global intelligence agency and the US is the No.1 'hacking state' in the world,'' said a spokesperson of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday, in response to the Five Eyes' warning against so-called Chinese hacker group Volt Typhoon. China firmly opposes the baseless attacks and smears against China by the US and other Five Eyes alliance countries, Wang Wenbin said at a regular press conference. In May 2023, the Five Eyes alliance released a similar report smearing China. Less than a year later, the alliance staged a sequel to the smear campaign against China, which is still a "shoddy and inferior product," Wang said. These attacks on China are aimed at covering up the misconduct of the Five Eyes alliance itself, Wang said. The US has established a large cyber arsenal, which includes typical weapons like the "PRISM" program disclosed by Edward Snowden, the Project "CAMBERDADA" by the US media, the Equation group by the Shadow Brokers, and Vault 7 by WikiLeaks. These cyber weapons put the critical global infrastructure and people's life and production in all countries in jeopardy. In addition to reports released yesterday, Chinese cybersecurity institutions have released multiple reports on US-related cybersecurity issues, which disclose how the US government puts critical global infrastructure in jeopardy and becomes the No. 1 "source of cyber risks and challenges." The US still owes the world an explanation, Wang said. He emphasized that China firmly opposes and will legally combat any form of cyber attacks. China proposed the Global Initiative on Data Security in 2020, which calls on all countries to jointly build a peaceful, secure, open, cooperative and orderly cyberspace, and oppose the use of information technology to undermine other countries' critical infrastructure, steal important data, as well as endanger their national security and public interests. If the Five Eyes alliance truly wants to safeguard cybersecurity, they are welcome to join the Global Initiative on Data Security, Wang said. "Let's stay tuned and see what else is in the alliance' play script of spreading disinformation on 'Chinese cyberattacks,'" the spokesperson said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address ELKO After a decade with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Texas, wildlife biologist Hilary Swarts moved to Elko County in November 2022 to manage Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Swarts worked to conserve ocelots wild, medium-size spotted cats at the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge in southern Texas. She gave a talk at the Bristlecone Audubon meeting on Feb. 6 in the Nevada Department of Wildlife conference hall to share her passion for the animals she has played an important role in conserving. Southern states, namely Texas and small sections of Louisiana and Arkansas, are the historical northern territory range for ocelots, which populate geographical pockets stretching all the way down to Argentina. These guys will eat anything they can capture and get in their mouths, theyre not picky at all, Swarts said. That really large geographic spread means youll get ocelots who are actually great swimmers. So youll get them in places like mangroves, and theyll eat crabs. But while they arent discerning about food, she said, they are super picky about where they live and spend time. So theyre what we call habitat specialists. And their preferred habitat in South Texas specifically is called Tamaulipan thorn scrub, and thats a specific community of plant species, and about 60% of them have thorns. The ocelots make their home in thick, nearly impenetrable walls of brush, allowing them to live elusive lives with solitary nocturnal habits. As ocelots pour much of their energy into survival, they do not rapidly create litters the way domestic cats do, Swarts explained. A female may only have a maximum six kittens in her life, Swarts said and most just have one per litter. Researchers use spot patterns, each of which is unique to the ocelot, to track individuals and monitor population numbers, movement dynamics and social dynamics. Swarts said Texas bobcats can be easily confused with ocelots, to the point she received constant calls from Texans who had supposedly spotted an ocelot, only for it to be a bobcat. Despite their name, bobcats in Texas often have long tails. They can also have thin, sleek faces, unlike the more boxy faces of other, Northern American bobcats. Swarts shared some ways to tell the animals apart: bobcats have sideburns. Ocelots do not. Ocelots have spots with black outlines. A bobcats spottiness can exist on a spectrum of basically spotless to about as defined as an ocelots spots. Also, the ocelot will always have a long tail, it will always make a nice S curve, and it will always be banded. The bobcats could be short, could be longer, Swarts said. In addition, the ocelots are extreme habitat specialists. The bobcats are total habitat generalists. We had to help organize getting one out of the Cameron County Jail. Ocelots are critically endangered, she said. There are an estimated fewer than 80 left in the entire United States, she said. Swarts shared a few reasons for this population drop. First, ocelot coats were a popular fashion trend in the 1960s. Each coat could require dozens of ocelots to make. We have since that time instituted some legal protections for these cats here in the United States, Swarts said. These include the Endangered Species Act, which places endangered animal species under official protection; and the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, which encourages countries to take action against illegal transport of wildlife over borders. Probably the major reason for decline is just straight up habitat loss, Swarts said. Ocelots thick, thorny habitat is no place for agriculture or industry to take place. So about 95% of that habitat has been lost in South Texas through agriculture, urbanization, oil and gas development. In order to combat that, theres a few things we can do. One is setting aside protected areas. Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge is a federally protected reserve, which means development is not allowed there. The refuge has added around 20,000 acres in the past 10 years, Swarts said. Much like how people who primarily live in Reno can have extra property in Elko, Texans from Dallas or Houston can own Rio Grande Valley land, Swarts noted. However, changing generational interests mean a lot of farmland in the Rio Grande Valley is going up for sale. Some of this farmland is bought by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for refuge land. Community events allow Rio Grande Valley residents to plant native scrub species in wildlife habitats, Swarts said. Usually theres about 30 to 40 species that different growers in the Rio Grande Valley have grown. It takes a year for one of those plants to go from a seed to a seedling big enough to plant. If you plant a thorn scrub right here and you were able to keep it pretty well-protected, it would still be 25 to 30 years before it would host a female who would be willing to drop a kitten in there. The Fish and Wildlife Service has adopted a strategy of using tree tubes to protect plants, she said. Focusing on planting a small area and getting it right instead of scattering seeds across a board area can be a useful tactic for revitalizing habitats. Structure is always better than no structure. And so even just starting has benefits for wildlife, Swarts said. An area with a little more plant growth might be an area ocelots feel a little safer traveling through, she noted. Ensuring ocelots stay out of harms way can be complicated. She said 60% to 70% of the dead ocelots that weve found have been road kill. Also, many of those ocelots are male. While females tend to hold smaller home ranges, males spread across large territories. Their territorial behavior can leave some pushed into unsafe places. Swarts said the Fish and Wildlife Service makes an effort to reduce these deaths. Officials are working with the Texas Department of Transportation to install underpasses, which allow the animals to cross beneath highways. The first ocelot crossed in January 2020. The underpasses work best when they have a clear view on the other side, so ocelots are not afraid to cross and are intrigued by the area ahead of them. When youre thinking about wildlife crossings, you want to think, Who am I designing this for? A deer wildlife crossing should look very different from an ocelot one. What we did is we tried to get what would work for ocelots, and then generalize to most everything else, Swarts said. Important questions to ask for reducing ocelot collisions are what does the habitat look like? and where have we seen mortalities? This process can pose some unique challenges, she said. Public land and private land in Texas is the exact opposite of Nevada 4% public land. However, thanks to funding provided through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the federal government encourages state transportation departments to incorporate wildlife crossings. So Texas Department of Transportation now, every single one of their road projects starts with them evaluating what species might need passage, Swarts said. Along with avoiding cars, it is important for ocelots to be able to move between habitats so they do not become inbred, she said. So how does the Fish and Wildlife Service keep track of them? The researchers collect photos of the ocelots using trail cameras. What we try to do is put them out like an intersection of two game trails so that youll have a little bit of open space. After collecting images of mothers and offspring together, they can eventually piece together family trees. GPS collars help the researchers discover how wide the ocelots range of travel can be. In addition, Fish and Wildlife Service researchers capture ocelots in humane traps to study their temperatures and weight. They also measure any captured ocelots, checking their heartbeat and gauging their age based on their teeth. Swarts discussed how her current job role in Elko County contrasts with her former position in Texas. So the refuge I worked on was one of the only places for miles where people could go and enjoy nature, she said. Nevada, on the other hand, with its immense stretches of public land, has a lot more recreation opportunities and wildlife viewing opportunities for people who dont necessarily have big ranches or big plots of land. Ruby Lake is very much about waterfowl. Thats the reason the refuge was created, Swarts explained. I think the most impressive thing is watching this system that changes so much through the year and provides different things at different times of the year, whether its food sources or nesting habitat or prey species. You dont really see this seasonal shift in Texas you have a little bit of a rainy season, you have a little bit of warmer and colder, but you dont have the dramatic seasons that you have here. Id like to know more of the actual community that Im in, the people, what their lives look like, how that interacts with the refuge, she said. If youre working with nature, theres always more to learn. 24h Operational Activity: IDF Troops Continue To Eliminate Terrorists In Khan Yunis IDF Press Release February 6, 2024 06.02.24 IDF , Media Center IDF troops are continuing to operate in western Khan Yunis in order to secure new areas above and below ground. Over the past day, dozens of terrorists have been killed and approximately 80 individuals suspected of involvement in terrorist activity have been apprehended, including a number of terrorists that took part in the October 7th massacre. During targeted raids, IDF troops located numerous weapons, including grenades, AK-47 rifles, five RPGs, explosive devices, and ammunition. In the area of Deir al Balah, an Islamic Jihad terrorist who took part in the October 7th massacre in Kibbutz Nir Oz was eliminated by an IDF fighter jet. Over the past day, during IDF activity in the northern Gaza Strip, IDF troops neutralized numerous terrorists during targeted raids and ambushes. IDF missile ships identified a terrorist cell in the area where IDF troops in the central Gaza Strip were operating. During joint ground, naval, and aerial activity, the terrorist cell was struck and a number of the terrorists were eliminated. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hezbollah, Zionist regime exchange fire as tensions rise over Gaza IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 7, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Lebanese Resistance movement Hezbollah and the Israeli regime exchanged fire on Wednesday in the latest clashes between the two sides as regional tensions continue to mount over the Gaza war. According to Beirut-based Al Mayadeen news network on Wednesday, the Israeli regime's army carried out attacks on the town of Al-Khayyam in southern Lebanon, using several drones. A civilian was killed and two others were wounded as a result, the report said. The Israeli army also conducted attacks on areas near the towns of Ramya and Beitillu in southern Lebanon. In response to those attacks, Hezbollah targeted the Zionist army's Zabdin base and a nearby area where the regime's forces had gathered. Earlier on Wednesday, Hezbollah also hit spy and engineering equipment at the Ramya base with missiles. Tensions have significantly escalated between Hezbollah and the Zionist regime since October 7 when the occupying regime launched its war on Gaza. The Lebanese movement says its fighting with Israel is aimed at providing support to the Palestinian resistance fighters battling the regime in Gaza. 3266**4194 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address CENTCOM confirms Yemen's attack on Greek bulk carrier IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 7, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has confirmed that the Yemeni forces targeted MV Star Nasia, a Marshall Island-flagged, Greek-owned-and-operated bulk carrier transiting the Gulf of Aden. In a statement issued on Wednesday, the CENTCOM said that Yemeni forces had fired six anti-ship ballistic missiles (ASBM) from Yemen toward the Southern Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. It added that the USS Laboon (DDG 58), operating near MV Star Nasia, had intercepted and shot down a third anti-ship ballistic missile. The government in Sana'a , which is run by the Houthi Ansarullah resistance movement, has declared its support for Palestine since the Israeli regime launched a deadly war on Gaza on October 7. Yemen has vowed to continue attacks in the Red Sea on Israeli-linked ships until the regime ends an aggression against Gaza that has killed over 27,000 people in the besieged territory. 9376**4261 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address February 8, 2024 Release DOD Advances Microelectronics Commons to Build Domestic Semiconductor Industry, Workforce Jan. 29 - Feb. 2 marked the second week of Microelectronics Commons (Commons) Hubs visits for representatives from the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research & Engineering (OUSD(R&E)), Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC)-Crane Division, and National Security Technology Accelerator (NSTXL). Representatives traveled to Massachusetts and New York where they met with Hub leaders and members, as well as Governor Maura Healey and representatives from Congressional offices. These visits showed that funding from the bipartisan "Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors (CHIPS) and Science Act" is directly contributing to the Commons becoming a community that empowers Hub members to create public-private partnerships, invest in infrastructure for microchip prototyping, and engage in multilateral co-operation - all in keeping with President Biden's "Investing in America" agenda. CHIPS funding will continue to be allocated during Fiscal Years 2023 through 2027 to accelerate domestic microelectronics hardware prototyping and workforce development. This will grow local economies by upskilling local talent within each Hub region, while complementing programs run by the Department of Commerce and the National Science Foundation. The Northeast Microelectronics Coalition Hub (NEMC) site visit on January 30th in Boston included delegates from Analogue Devices, Applied Materials, NextFlex, Raytheon Technologies, Columbia, MITRE, as well as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and MIT Lincoln Labs. Governor Maura Healey and Ms. Yvonne Hao, Secretary of Economic Development, also attended alongside representatives from the Offices of Senator Ed Markey, and Congressman Seth Moulton. Congresswoman Lori Ann Trahan addressed the gathering virtually. NEMC Hub members are leaning heavily into public-private partnerships to accelerate semiconductor industry growth in Massachusetts and the entire Northeast, with support from Governor Healey for whom job training is a policy priority. "The camaraderie and collaboration that exists within this Hub has been forged over three years by our 170 member organizations," said Ben Linville-Engler, interim director of the NEMC Hub. Discussions highlighted the Hub's connections to both the Department of Defense (DoD) and the defense industrial base, and the site visit showed how public-private investment is adding to advanced nano-fabrication equipment and capabilities within Hub member MIT.nano. The Northeast Regional Defense Tech Hub (NORDTECH) site visit on February 1st in Albany, New York highlighted principal partners including the State University of New York (SUNY) - Albany, Cornell University, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, NY CREATES, and IBM - all which participated in the event. Representatives from the Offices of Senator Chuck Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand also attended. New York state has spent two decades investing in its manufacturing industry, especially microelectronics. This in turn has incentivized SUNY Albany to invest in cutting edge facilities, IBM to remain a stalwart regional partner, Micron Technology to invest $100 billion in a 20 year commitment to the state, and nonprofits to facilitate resource sharing, standards, and workforce development. NORDTECH magnifies the impact of this pre-existing network by bringing in organizations as Hub members (one-third of which are small businesses), then catalyzing multilateral cooperation over bilateral relationships. "What NORDTECH offers is the ability to really expand our network," said Nate Cady, Associate Dean for Research, College of Nanotechnology, Science & Engineering - University at Albany. Mr. Maynard Holliday, PTDO Assistant Secretary of Defense for Critical Technologies, and Dr. Devanand Shenoy, Principal Director for Microelectronics, OUSD(R&E) and Executive Director of the Commons, both applauded NORDTECH's approach to workforce development as extremely well thought out, possessing both significant breadth and depth. Given the capabilities of this community, the Hub is well prepared to work with the DoD to achieve the Common's defense mission. Both NEMC and NORDTECH have impressive infrastructure in place to prototype semiconductors and speed their lab-to-fab transition in pursuit of a sustainable pipeline of domestically produced, state-of-the-art microelectronics to meet U.S. needs. They also have significant state and federal government support, and the capabilities to increasingly address defense requirements for advanced microchips. Readouts of the following Commons site visits are forthcoming: 5 February: North Carolina, where North Carolina State leads the Commercial Leap Ahead for Wide-bandgap Semiconductors Hub (CLAWS) 7 February: Ohio, where the Midwest Microelectronics Consortium leads the Midwest Microelectronics Consortium Hub (MMEC) 9 February: Indiana, where the Applied Research Institute leads the Silicon Crossroads Microelectronics Commons Hub (SCMC) For more information, please visit the Commons website: MicroelectronicsCommons.org. MEDIA CONTACTS Office of the Secretary of Defense CDR Timothy Gorman Spokesperson Timothy.P.Gorman6.mil@mail.mil Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research & Engineering Mr. Jared Adams Director of Strategic Communications jared.b.adams2.civ@mail.mil https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3671111/ NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Netanyahu rejects Hamas' proposed cease-fire terms in blow to Washington's diplomacy in Middle East, highlighting US-Israel divisions Global Times By GT staff reporters Published: Feb 08, 2024 09:16 PM Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed Hamas' proposals for a cease-fire and hostage deal in Gaza, calling them "delusional," in what is widely regarded as a blow for the diplomacy of the Biden administration in the Middle East as Secretary of State Antony Blinken makes his fifth visit from February 2 to Thursday to the region. This again highlighted the deep divergence between Washington and the Netanyahu administration, and also exposes the further weakening of American influence over Israel and the failure of the US' Middle East policy, observers said. Netanyahu said during a Wednesday briefing: "We haven't committed to any of the delusional demands of Hamas.... We are on the way to complete victory. The victory is achievable; it's not a matter of years or decades, it's a matter of months," he told the news conference. "If Hamas will survive in Gaza, it's only a question of time until the next massacre," Netanyahu said. Hamas had presented its response to a proposal for a deal by calling for a phased Israeli withdrawal from the enclave during a four-and-a-half-month truce and a plan to permanently end the war, according to a CNN news report on Wednesday. BBC said in its news report on Thursday that Israel was expected to take issue with Hamas's counter-offer, but this response is a categorical rebuke, and Israeli officials clearly see an effort by Hamas to end the war on its terms as utterly unacceptable. The BBC news report quoted an Egyptian official source as saying that a new round of negotiations, mediated by Egypt and Qatar, is still expected to go ahead on Thursday in Cairo. It has been exactly four months since the conflict started on October 7 last year. Now, a cease-fire is becoming inevitable for all parties involved in this conflict, Chinese observers said. "Israel is finding it increasingly difficult to sustain the ongoing conflict due to mounting internal and external pressures. However, for Netanyahu, he needs to wait for a deal that he can accept or one that both sides can accept. As for Hamas, they cannot afford to continue fighting as they are relatively weak in terms of power. Nevertheless, in the current external conditions that are relatively favorable to Hamas, they also want to leverage this opportunity to put forward some conditions," said Li Weijian, a research fellow with the Institute for Foreign Policy Studies of the Shanghai Institutes for International Studies. Although the demands from Hamas are challenging, both sides have been aware of the difficulties from the beginning. The fact that they continue to negotiate despite knowing the challenges indicates that there is still a possibility for some compromise, Li Weijian told the Global Times on Thursday. The expert believes Netanyahu's tough talk on Wednesday was more like "political bargaining." While Netanyahu's statements are resolute, vowing to completely destroy Hamas, it is possible that his tough talk is also a tactic for bargaining with the US to secure political maneuvering space for himself, Li Weijian said. This is because Netanyahu faces domestic opposition in his handling of the conflict and the US is also dissatisfied with him. Therefore, part of the reason for his tough rhetoric is driven by personal political considerations, such as hoping for some assurance from Washington, he explained. Li Haidong, a professor at the China Foreign Affairs University, told the Global Times on Thursday that in this conflict, Israel has not achieved its stated goals, as Hamas still remains resilient. But the current situation is such that the mainstream, including Arab countries, the US, Hamas, and even some within Israel, are calling for and coordinating efforts to alleviate the existing situation. According to latest media reports, around 1,300 people were killed during the Hamas attacks on southern Israel on 7 October last year. More than 27,700 Palestinians have been killed and at least 65,000 injured by the war launched by Israel in response, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. Despite different voices within Israel, Netanyahu still holds significant influence in his country, Li Haidong said, which means Netanyahu's tough stance could complicate the conflict situation, he warned. Will the future conflict move towards de-escalation or continue to escalate? Based on Netanyahu's statements, it seems that Israeli hardliners still hope for the conflict to continue, which could lead to more uncertain consequences, Li Haidong predicted. What's for sure is that the divergence between the US and Israel is more pronounced, Chinese observers said. Currently, it appears that the goals pursued by the Israeli hardliners are inconsistent with the relevant resolutions of the United Nations and even the US' definition of the Israeli-Palestinian relationship, Li Haidong pointed out. From the perspective of the US, their focus is on the overall security order in the Middle East region and the macro strategic layout on a global scale. On the other hand, when it comes to Israel, the hardliners in the country approach the solution from a perspective of the "survival or extinction" of the Hamas regime, the expert stated. The immediate priority for Washington in the region is how to better coordinate with Arab countries to deal with the crisis caused by the attack on American troops in Jordan, as well as the attacks by Houthi militants on US and other Western commercial ships in the Red Sea region, observers believe. "This requires cooperation from Israel. However, it seems that the hardliners in Israel are not buying into the US agenda, which makes it challenging for the US to gather enough support from Arab powers in response to the US' so-called 'opponents or enemies'," Li Haidong explained. Netanyahu's rejection of the cease-fire deal signified another setback for US-led diplomatic efforts, highlighting a fundamental mismatch between the US and Israel's plans for Gaza's future, Li Weijian noted. He also pointed out that this incident exposed the further weakening of American influence over Israel and once again exposes the failure of its Middle East policy. The decline of US influence in the region can be attributed to two main reasons, according to the expert. Firstly, the overall strength of the US has been decreasing, resulting in a decline in its influence not only in the Middle East but also worldwide. Secondly, the US is strategically unwilling to allocate more resources to the Middle East in the future. Previous administrations have already sought to reduce their presence in the Middle East, and now the Biden administration is faced with pressing domestic issues as well as global challenges such as the Ukraine crisis and great power competition. Li Weijian predicted that as a result of this incident, there may be some changes in the relationship between the US and Israel in the future. Within the US, there are already discussions about the value of Israel and whether it is worth investing so many resources while the US compromises its own image. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address CENTCOM conducts new attacks on Yemen IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 8, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- US Central Command (CENTCOM) has said that it conducted strikes against two Yemeni mobile anti-ship cruise missiles which were prepared to launch against ships in the Red Sea. CENTCOM announced the "self-defense" strikes on Thursday on its X account, saying they were conducted on Wednesday night against missiles of Houthis, a term used by Western officials and media for the Ansarullah resistance movement in Yemen. "On Feb. 7, at approximately 9:00 p.m. (Sanaa time), US Central Command (CENTCOM) forces conducted self-defense strikes against two Houthi mobile anti-ship cruise missiles prepared to launch against ships in the Red Sea." The US military also conducted a second strike against what it said was a mobile land attack cruise missile prepared to launch. This attack occurred the same day at 11:30 p.m. (Sanaa time), according to CENTCOM post on X, formerly Twitter. It claimed that the Yemeni missiles "presented an imminent threat to U.S. Navy ships and merchant vessels in the region." Following the massacre of the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip by the Israeli regime's army and the United States' all-out support for the genocidal war, Yemen's resistance fighters and armed forces started attacks on Israeli ships and Israel-bound vessels in the Red Sea in mid-November, with the aim of forcing the regime to stop the onslaught on Gaza. The US and the UK kicked off strikes on Yemen in mid-January for what they described as protecting international shipping. Yemen has time and again said that its Red Sea attacks only target Israeli-linked ships and other vessels can freely navigate in the crucial waterway. On Thursday, Ansarullah Leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi said that Yemeni fighters are determined to continue attacks on Israeli positions in the occupied territories and their ships in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait until the Israeli regime stops its war on Gaza and lifts the blockade of the territory. 4208**4194 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Gaza death toll tops 27,800 IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 8, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- At least 27,840 people have been killed and 67,317 others injured in Gaza since the Israeli regime began its war on the besieged Palestinian territory on October 7, according to the latest figures announced by the Health Ministry in Gaza. The ministry made the announcement on Thursday, saying that 130 people were killed and 170 others injured in 15 massacres committed by the Israeli regime over the 24 hours alone. It said that many of the victims of the latest attacks are under the rubble or on the streets as Israeli forces prevent emergency teams to reach them. The Palestine Red Crescent Society has also said that the regime's troops prevent deliveries of aid and medical supplies to Nasser and Al-Amal hospitals in Khan Yunis, a city in the southern Gaza Strip that has been the focal point of Israeli attacks in the past few weeks. 4208**4194 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 3 Israeli troopers injured in Hezbollah attack IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 8, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- An Israeli officer and two soldiers have been injured in an attack by Lebanon's resistance movement Hezbollah in the occupied region of Qiryat Shemona. Al Jazeera TV network, citing a Hezbollah statement, said on Thursday that the Lebanese resistance movement attacked the 769th Brigade of the Israeli occupation forces' Galilee Division, using appropriate weapons. The Israeli regime's Public Radio said that one officer and two soldiers were injured in the attack. Earlier, Hezbollah announced that its fighters had targeted Biranit military base near Lebanon's border in the Israeli-occupied territories, causing casualties among Israeli forces. The Lebanese resistance movement fired two missiles at Al-Mutla settlement in Al-Jalil region as well. It also targeted military headquarters in Shebaa Farms in the northern occupied territories. The Israeli regime meanwhile conducted airstrikes on El Khiam town in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah and the Israeli regime have been engaged in clashes ever since the Gaza war broke out in early October. Hezbollah says it aims to provide support to Palestinian resistance fighters battling the regime in Gaza. 4208**4194 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Gaza martyrs' blood to put an end to Israeli regime: President Raisi IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 8, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi has emphasized that the Iranian authorities are confident that the blood of martyrs in the Gaza Strip will create a situation that puts an end to the Israeli regime and the current unjust world order. Raisi made these remarks during a meeting of top Iranian officials and representatives of Islamic countries with Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei on the occasion of Eid al-Mab'ath in Tehran on Thursday morning. The president argued that the child-killing and genocidal war in Gaza reveals the true void nature of claims made by Western powers regarding respecting human rights. It also highlights the inefficiency of international organizations. During this meeting, Raisi also emphasized his administration's efforts to promote justice and improve economic circumstances in Iran. He noted that the only solution to ongoing problems lies in internal determination, and his administration does not wait for foreign assistance to address domestic challenges. 4208**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israeli regime withdraws another brigade from Gaza IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 8, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- The Israeli regime's army declared the withdrawal of another brigade from the Gaza Strip on Wednesday night. According to Sama news agency, the Israeli military announced that it had withdrawn Brigade 271 of the Engineering Combat Battalion from Khan Younis city after several weeks of fighting in the southern Gaza Strip. The Israeli regime's radio also reported earlier that the 5th Reserve Infantry Division withdrew from the Gaza Strip, but the 646th Paratroopers Brigade will remain in Khan Younis city. A senior Israeli officer, who is playing an active role in the Gaza genocidal war, acknowledged that the Israeli military forces are facing very hard circumstances in the face of Palestinian resistance fighters. Since October 7, 2023, following the Palestinian resistance groups' surprising attack on Israeli settlements, the Israeli regime started bombardment of the Gaza Strip and kicked off ground operation since October 17, 2023. 4208**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Kari N. Monson, 44, was arrested Jan. 29, 2024, at 1225 Wendover Blvd. and charged with battery by a prisoner, using or possessing drug paraphernalia, trespassing and failure to appear after bail for a misdemeanor crime. Bail: $22,515 Joshua A. Morales, 34, was arrested Jan. 29, 2024, at 2321 Wildwood Way and charged with taking or possessing a vehicle without the owners consent and first-offense domestic battery. Bail: $8,140 Myranda J. Reich, 30, was arrested Jan. 29, 2024, at the Stockmans Casino on a charge of violation of probation or condition of a suspended sentence. Jeremy L. Clay, 41, was arrested Jan. 31, 2024, on State Route 227 Mile Marker 1 as a fugitive felon from another state without a warrant. Nicholas E. Done, 44, was arrested Jan. 31, 2024, at Third and Silver streets on a robbery charge. Bail: $100,000 Arthur J. Miles, Jr., 41, was arrested Jan. 31, 2024, at 1785 Great Basin Blvd. on a gross misdemeanor warrant charging battery on a protected person and violation of probation or condition of a suspended sentence. Bail: $5,000 Talon S. Jones, 31, was arrested Feb. 1, 2024, at the Elko County Jail and charged with battery by a prisoner. Bail: $100,000 Kenneth F. Bills, 45, was arrested Feb. 2, 2024, at the Utah County Jail charging failure to appear after bail on a felony crime. Bail: $10,000 Emilio C. Canales, 32, was arrested Feb. 2, 2024, at the West Wendover Police Department and charged with failure to appear after bail on a felony crime. Bail: $300,000 Christopher L. Zuern, 41, was arrested Feb. 2, 2024, at State Route 227 and Last Chance Rd. on a charge of domestic violence battery with substantial bodily harm. Bail: $100,000 Jose T. Banuelos Perez, 21, was arrested Feb. 3, 2024, at the Peppermill and charged with two counts of possession of a controlled substance and two counts of using or possessing drug paraphernalia. Bail: $21,280 Michael J. Keith, 35, was arrested Feb. 4, 2024, at 1111 Idaho St. on a Humboldt County Justice Court felony warrant and charged with two counts of attempted sexual assault against a child under 14 years of age and eight counts of statutory sexual seduction by a person 21 or older. Bail: $1,080,000 US assassinates resistance commander in Iraqi capital IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 8, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- The US Defense Department (Pentagon) confirmed that American forces carried out a drone strike on the Iraqi capital Baghdad on Wednesday night, killing a senior resistance commander, according to American media reports. The reports cited the Pentagon as saying that a member of Kata'ib Hezbollah (a group part of Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces), who was behind last month's attack on a US military base in Jordan, was killed in the drone strike. A US official said American intelligence had been tracking him for some times, following up on President Joe Biden's promise that the response to the base attack would continue. Videos from the scene showed the charred wreckage of a vehicle in a neighborhood of eastern Baghdad, and a nearby fire. Iraqi security sources and media reports have also confirmed the attack, saying three people were killed after the American drone fired missiles on a vehicle used by Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), known in Arabic as Hashd al-Sha'abi. Two officials said that senior resistance commander Abu Baqir al-Saadi was among those assassinated in the US drone attack. But according to a PMF official, two resistance commanders had been killed in the strike. Witnesses said identification cards found nearby the charred vehicle identified them as Arkan al-Elayawi and Abu Baqir al-Saadi. This is the second strike on Iraq by the US forces in less than a week. US Central Command (CENTCOM), which operates military activities in the West Asia region, said on Sunday that "US military forces struck more than 85 targets in Iraq and Syria, deploying numerous aircraft and-range bombers flown from United States. "The airstrikes employed more than 125 precision munitions," it said. The Pentagon claimed that American warplanes had destroyed or severely damaged most of the targets they struck in Syria and Iraq on Friday. Anger in Baghdad Meanwhile, anti-American demonstrations held at the site of the car explosion in eastern Baghdad, with people chanting slogans and calling for the withdrawal of US forces form the country. Crowds also gathered near the US Embassy in Baghdad, chanting "America is the devil." News sources reported on Wednesday night that security forces have closed the entrances to Baghdad's Green Zone that houses diplomatic missions, including the US embassy. According Al Jazeera, all the entrances to the green area in the center of Baghdad have been closed. Anti-American sentiment is high in the Arab country that has grown further since the Israeli genocidal war on the Gaza Strip and the US support for the regime's crimes against Palestinians. The Iraqi government has not commented yet on the drone strike in Baghdad but it condemned last week's US attacks as violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity. In a Security Council meeting on Monday, the representative of Iraq to the United Nations also censured any attack on his country under "false and illogical pretexts", a reference to US claims that American strikes were in response to the involvement of an Iraqi resistance group in the Jordan base attack. "The crises in the Middle East are connected, and we have warned about the widening scope of the conflict in the region", the Iraqi UN envoy said, emphasizing that the Iraqi people will never allow their country to become the arena of political settlements. 4399 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Explosions caused by missiles rock Baghdad IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 8, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Several explosions heard in the east of the Iraqi capital Baghdad late on Wednesday with some media reports suggesting they were caused by missile strikes on the city. A journalist working for the Al-Mayadeen network reported that three missiles were seen in the skies over Al-Baladiyat and Zeyouneh, the two neighborhoods in Baghdad. He said that a civilian vehicle was hit by the missiles that was also confirmed by Al Jazeera which said that the car believed to be carrying a figure from Iraqi resistance groups but did not give the detail. The Sabrin News Telegram channel also reported that a column of smoke rose into the air from al-Rasafa area, located in the east of Baghdad. Meanwhile, an American official on the condition of anonymity told Al Jazeera that the attack on Iraq was carried out by the United States. "We confirm that the American forces carried out an attack in Iraq today", he said without giving further detail. The US Department of Defense also said it is aware of the reports of attacks in Baghdad and an official whose name was not disclosed was quoted as saying that the Pentagon would inform about it at the appropriate time. According to media reports, a car in eastern Baghdad was targeted by a drone attack and three occupants of the car were killed. Unconfirmed reports report the martyrdom of three members of Kataib Hezbollah, including Abu Baqer al-Saadi, one of the commanders of Al-Hashd al-Shaabi. Some officials of this media probably consider it a drone. 4399 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Minister A. Anusauskas requested Italy's assistance in ensuring supply of spares for the Spartan cargo aircraft Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of National Defence 2024-02-08 International cooperation On February 8 Minister of National Defence Arvydas Anusauskas met with the new Ambassador of Italy to Lithuania HE Emanuele de Maigret whom he requested for Italy's assistance to Lithuania in supplying spare parts for the Spartan cargo aircraft in a timely manner. The most significant instance in defence cooperation between Lithuania and Italy to date has been the acquisition of the C-27J Spartan aircraft from the Italian company Leonardo's Aircraft Division. According to Minister, there are ongoing negotiations with the company on a Spartan maintenance contract update. "Leonardo has voiced a wish to extend the terms of spares supply beyond the current, something we'd rather not approve. Therefore we turn to Italy to take action and ensure that spare parts for the Spartan aircraft arrive in Lithuania on time," said A. Anusauskas to Ambassador. Minister also thanked for Italy's contribution to the regional security: active role in the NATO Air Policing Mission in the Baltic states and the NATO enhanced Forward Presence Battalion Battle Group Latvia. As well, A. Anusauskas and E. de Magreit touched upon the NATO Summit in Washington, the necessity for a practical implementation of the Rotational NATO Air Defence model, and assistance to Ukraine. Italy is one of the 16 countries who decided to become a part of the demining coalition for Ukraine Lithuania assembles. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Venezuela vows 'forceful' response if oil drilling begins in disputed Guyana waters Iran Press TV Thursday, 08 February 2024 7:46 PM Venezuela has vowed a "forceful response" if oil drilling begins in the disputed waters controlled by neighboring Guyana, as announced by US oil company ExxonMobil this week. Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino wrote on X that while ExxonMobil may have the protection of the United States and Guyana, "in the maritime space that rightfully belongs to Venezuela, they will receive a proportional, forceful response that adheres to the law." The disputed region has been controlled by Guyana, but Venezuela also claims sovereignty over it which comprises some two-thirds of Guyanese territory. On Wednesday, Venezuela's Vice President Delcy Rodriguez accused ExxonMobil of seeking "to protect its illicit operations in a sea which is pending delimitation, under the war-mongering mantle of the United States in complicity with Guyana." The 160,000 square km territory around the Esequibo River has found significance in recent years, after the discovery of offshore oil and gas by ExxonMobil. The maritime border between the two countries is also in dispute. ExxonMobil announced Tuesday that it plans to drill two exploratory wells this year off the coast of Essequibo. In December, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro called a referendum in Venezuela where voters overwhelmingly supported their country's claim to the oil-rich Essequibo region. Caracas claims the Essequibo River to the region's east forms a natural border recognized as far back as 1777. Tensions inflamed in the South American region when Britain sent a warship to the area, prompting Maduro to mobilize 5,600 troops in military exercises near the border. However relative calm prevailed after a meeting between the countries' foreign ministers in Brazil in January, following earlier face-to-face talks between Maduro and Guyana President Irfaan Ali, who agreed not to resort to force. The border dispute is currently before the International Criminal Court (ICJ) in The Hague. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Yemeni leader declares 'real victory' in stopping Israel-bound ships Iran Press TV Thursday, 08 February 2024 7:14 PM Yemen's Ansarullah leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi says the country has achieved a "real victory" by stepping up operations in the Red Sea and hindering the movement of ships connected to Israel. Yemen says its armed forces are acting in solidarity with the Palestinians as Israel wages war on Gaza, forcing many commercial ships bound for Israeli ports to divert vessels from the vital shipping route. "The movement of ships linked to Israel has become almost non-existent. For the Israeli enemy's ships, their movement has completely stopped from the Bab al-Mandab strait to the Red Sea, and this is a real achievement and a real victory," al-Houthi said in a televised speech. The United States and Britain in December announced a military coalition to target Yemen in support of Israel. But most allies, notably European countries, have raised reservations about the plan, which has seen the US and Britain launch airstrikes on Yemen, and baulked at the idea of being under Washington's command. On Wednesday, British media reports revealed that the country's Royal Navy had been forced to pull HMS Diamond out of the Red Sea after coming under three bouts of attacks by ballistic missiles fired from Yemen. The reports did not specify the reasons for the summon, only stating that HMS Richmond had "temporarily" taken over in the Red Sea. They said HMS Diamond would be rearmed before heading back into action in the Red Sea. But footage released by Yemeni media purportedly shows a missile apparently hitting HMS Diamond in the Red Sea, without specifying when the strike took place. A British-owned cargo vessel was attacked in the Red Sea shortly after midnight on Tuesday, the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said. "England and America have suffered huge losses due to Yemen's attacks and therefore have entered this war" of the Israeli regime on Gaza, al-Houthi said on Thursday night. "For the first time since World War II, America is witnessing an attack on its warships." Al-Houthi assured that by coordinating more with Yemen, all other countries can continue their passage of vessels through the Red Sea, urging them "not to listen to America's negative propaganda" about shipping security in the region. He said the US and British coalition has rushed to help the Israeli regime in its crimes against Gaza by carrying out attacks on Yemen. Al-Houthi said the US claim of attacking Yemen under the moniker of "supporting freedom of navigation" in the Red Sea is a false excuse. "American and British spy drones pave the way for the killing of Palestinian refugees by the Zionist regime and play an essential role in its preparation for attack on Rafah." Al-Houthi pledged that "as long as Palestinian blood is spilled, widows' tears flow, and orphans cry, we will never empty the battlefield". "We will continue our launch of ballistic and guided missiles and drones, and expand our mobilization and preparation activities," he added. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Genocide in Gaza: Israel intensifies attacks on Rafah Iran Press TV Thursday, 08 February 2024 6:53 PM Israel's war on the besieged Gaza Strip is now in its fifth month, with the focus of onslaught being the southern city of Rafah, which hosts more than half of the Palestinian population. Israeli troops and warplanes bombed areas in Rafah on Thursday. Tanks shelled some areas in the eastern part of the city. The health ministry said at least 27,840 people have been killed in the territory since Israel began its war in October. The latest toll includes 130 deaths over the past 24 hours, a ministry statement said, while a total of 67,317 people have been wounded in Gaza since October 7. Also in Rafah, mourners wept over the bodies of those killed in an Israeli airstrike on the Tel al-Sultan neighborhood. Witnesses said a man was carrying the body of a young child in a black bag after an Israeli rocket attack on a spot with children, women, and the elderly. Israel intensified attacks in Rafah overnight as warplanes struck three homes and killed 24 Palestinians. Rafah is home to more than half of the 2 million Palestinians who have been forced from their homes across Gaza. The city was designated a "safe zone" by the Israeli regime's authorities, but in recent days they have vowed to move the military offensive into the city. Aid agencies have warned of a humanitarian catastrophe if Israel follows through on its threat to enter one of the last remaining areas of the Gaza Strip that its troops have not moved into during its ground offensive. On Wednesday, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said pushing into Rafah on the border with Egypt would "increase what is already a humanitarian nightmare with untold regional consequences." "We have our backs to the (border) fence and faces toward the Mediterranean. Where should we go?" said Emad, 55, a displaced person who is a father of six. "There is no place to go. One million people and more than 1 million are asking this question today; where shall we go?" Meanwhile, the health ministry in Gaza says Nasser Hospital in the city of Khan Younis is overwhelmed with a large number of injured. The ministry warns that 10,000 displaced Palestinians are facing death and starvation under Israeli fire on the hospital. The Palestine Red Crescent Society says staff and patients are also in danger at Amal Hospital in Khan Younis. Hospitals and medical centers have been among the main targets of the Israeli military since the regime's hostilities began in early October. Israel appears unwilling to establish a ceasefire. It has already rejected a proposal for truce by the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas. But a Palestinian official said a Hamas delegation has traveled to Cairo for talks with Egyptian and Qatari mediators. The talks will reportedly focus on the first phase of the proposed ceasefire deal by Hamas, which would last about six weeks. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has also been on a tour in the region. Still, Washington has so far failed to put meaningful pressure on Israel to end the onslaught. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Feb. 7: 'Axis of Resistance' operations against Israeli occupation Iran Press TV Thursday, 08 February 2024 1:26 PM By Press TV Website Staff Amid Israel's genocide in Gaza, which has already claimed the lives of almost 28,000 Palestinians, most of them children and women, resistance groups in Palestine and across the region continue their operations against the Tel Aviv regime and its Western backers. The operations carried out by the Palestinian and regional resistance groups on Wednesday, February 7, are as follows: Al-Qassam Brigades' operations on Feb. 7: Targeted a group of Israeli soldiers, taking cover in a house in an area west of Khan Younis, with a TBG anti-fortification shell. Targeted a Merkava tank and a military bulldozer with Yassin 105 shells, west of Gaza City. Targeted a Merkava-4 tank with a Tandem rocket, west of the Shuja'iya neighborhood in Gaza City. In a joint operation with Al-Quds Brigades, targeted a special Israeli force holed up in a house in an area west of Khan Younis city with two anti-personnel shells and engaged in clashes with them with machine guns. Shelled the Israeli army concentrations infiltrating the 'Al-Kutiba' area west of Gaza City with mortar shells. Sniped an Israeli military officer near the Industry Intersection in Gaza City. Al-Quds Brigades' operations on Feb. 7: Shot down an Israeli military quadcopter drone and seized it during its spying mission in the skies of Al-Bureij camp. Targeted Israeli army gathering with two suicide drones of type "Sayyad" and "Sahab" west of Gaza City. Eliminated all members of the Israeli military and force after targeting them with a TBG rocket as they took cover in a residential apartment near Al-Hawooz School, west of Khan Younis city. Targeted an Israeli military bulldozer with RPGs, causing the death of the personnel inside, in the vicinity of Al-Amal neighborhood west of Khan Younis city. In a joint operation with of Al-Aqsa Brigades, shelled the concentrations of Israeli soldiers near the checkpoint in the axis of west of Gaza. Al-Aqsa Brigades' operations on Feb. 7: Targeted an Israeli military vehicle with an explosive device, west of Khan Younis city, in the southern Gaza Strip. Shelled Israeli military soldiers and their vehicles with mortars and Al-Aqsa rockets west of Gaza City. Mujahideen Brigades' operations on Feb. 7: Targeted gatherings of Israeli forces in the Jawazat area of Gaza City with a barrage of short-range rockets. Targeted a Merkava tank with an anti-tank rocket west of Gaza City. Hezbollah's operations on Feb. 17: Eastern sector: At around 13:45 local time, the Zibdin site in Shebaa was targeted with missiles. At around 20:23 local time, Israeli soldiers in the vicinity of the Al-Marj site were targeted with missile weapons. At around 21:00 local time, the Ruwaisat Al-Alam site in Shebaa was targeted with missiles. Western sector: At around 14:15 local time, the technical equipment at the Ramia site was targeted with appropriate weapons. At around 17:50 local time, the Khirbet Maar base was targeted with a Falaq-1 missile. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address OIC denounces Argentina's decision to move embassy to occupied al-Quds Iran Press TV Thursday, 08 February 2024 10:22 AM The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has expressed its strong condemnation of a plan by Argentina's President Javier Milei's to move the country's embassy from Tel Aviv to occupied al-Quds. The OIC condemned the decision as a clear violation of both international law and relevant resolutions by the United Nations, in a statement released on Wednesday. The statement emphasized the move was particularity against Security Council Resolution 478, which urges nations with diplomatic missions in occupied al-Quds to relocate their missions from the holy city. East al-Quds, which was taken over by Israel during the 1967 war, has since been annexed and is now regarded as an occupied territory according to international law. The OIC statement further stated that the South American country has been urged to halt its actions and adhere to the resolution that emphasizes the preservation of the occupied city's legal and historical identity. The OIC also underscored that the unauthorized maneuver by the Argentinean president constitutes a violation of the rights of the Palestinian population. The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas earlier said the move constitutes "an infringement of the rights of our Palestinian people to their land and a violation of the rules of international law considering al-Quds as occupied Palestinian land." Argentina's president delighted his Israeli hosts upon his visit to the occupied territories on Tuesday by announcing moves to shift his country's embassy to al-Quds. On his first official visit since taking office, he said: "My plan is to move the embassy to west al-Quds." The United States initiated the move in 2018 under the presidency of Donald Trump after he recognized the city as the Israeli capital. Argentina would become one of only a handful of countries to have its embassy in the occupied city. The visit by Argentinean president to the occupied territories comes as most Latin American countries have distanced themselves from Israel over during the Gaza war. Israel waged its brutal war on besieged Gaza on October 7 following an unprecedented operation by the Palestinian Hamas resistance group against the occupying entity in retaliation for the regime's intensified atrocities against the Palestinian people. So far, the Tel Aviv regime has killed at least 27,700 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured 67,000 others. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Concerns grow over new Gaza carnage amid planned Israeli assault on Rafah Iran Press TV Thursday, 08 February 2024 10:10 AM Fears have mounted over a new carnage against Palestinians as the Israeli military prepares to conduct an offensive in the overcrowded Gaza city of Rafah. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Wednesday that he had ordered troops to "prepare to operate" in Rafah, home to about 1.4 million Palestinians who have been displaced due to the occupying regime's genocidal war on the besieged Gaza Strip. UN humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths said an Israeli assault on Rafah, situated in Gaza's closed southern border with Egypt, risks "claiming the lives of even more people" and "hampering a humanitarian operation" there. "As the war encroaches further into Rafah, I am extremely concerned about the safety and well-being of families that have endured the unthinkable in search of safety," he added. "Their living conditions are abysmal -- they lack the basic necessities to survive, stalked by hunger, disease and death." Similarly, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that if Israel pushed on into Rafah, it would "exponentially increase what is already a humanitarian nightmare with untold regional consequences." "I am especially alarmed by reports that the Israeli military intends to focus next on Rafah, where hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have been squeezed in a desperate search for safety," he said. Meanwhile, Raed al-Nims of the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) said, "Everyone is afraid of the expanding of the ground operation in Rafah." On Tuesday, the UN's humanitarian agency OCHA warned of a "large-scale loss of civilian lives" in the case of an Israeli attack on Rafah. "Under international humanitarian law, indiscriminate bombing of densely populated areas may amount to war crimes," OCHA spokesperson Jens Laerke told a UN briefing in the Swiss city of Geneva. Israel waged the genocidal war on Gaza on October 7 after the Palestinian Hamas resistance group carried out a historic operation against the occupying entity in retaliation for its intensified atrocities against the Palestinian people. So far, the Tel Aviv regime has killed at least 27,708 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured 67,174 others. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Risk of famine 'increasing by day' in war-torn Gaza Strip, UN warns Iran Press TV Thursday, 08 February 2024 7:56 AM The United Nations has warned that the risk of famine and malnutrition is "increasing by the day" in the besieged Gaza Strip, as Israel's strict blockade has cut off vital resources and caused the densely-populated territory to grapple with a humanitarian disaster. At a press conference on Wednesday, UN secretary-general's spokesman Stephane Dujarric stressed that since the beginning of the current Israeli war on the Palestinian territory in early October, the world body has warned about severe food shortages there. "Four months since the escalation of hostilities, OCHA (UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs) is warning that in Gaza, severe food shortages, a breakdown in health services and inadequate facilities for water, sanitation and hygiene are putting children under the age of 5, as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women, at increased risk of malnutrition," he said. In his daily update, Dujarric also warned that the risk of malnutrition is particularly high for some 300,000 people in northern Gaza who have been largely cut off from humanitarian assistance. Citing the World Food Programme, OCHA has reported that the amount of humanitarian aid reaching Gaza City in the north is "not enough to prevent a famine", as the last time the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) managed to distribute food in the north of the territory was on January 23. Dujarric's comments came almost a week after he said that UN humanitarian partners distributed supplementary nutrition assistance to nearly 42,000 children under the age of five, and almost 4,000 pregnant women and nursing mothers. However, he said on Wednesday that "a new screening by our humanitarian partners indicates a sharp rise in acute malnutrition, with a 12-fold increase compared to the rate recorded before the hostilities." Meanwhile, Michael Fakhri, UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food, said on Tuesday that the occupying regime was weaponizing hunger in its attacks against inhabitants of the Gaza Strip. "Israel is clearly and systematically obstructing access to food for all civilians in Gaza," he warned. The latest figures by the UN show that almost a quarter of Gaza's more than two million inhabitants are suffering from hunger, while the rest are under-nourished. Israel waged its brutal war on besieged Gaza on October 7 after the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas carried out an unprecedented operation against the occupying entity in retaliation for its intensified atrocities against the Palestinian people. So far, the Tel Aviv regime has killed at least 27,700 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured 67,000 others. Israel has imposed a "complete siege" on the densely-populated territory, cutting off fuel, electricity, food, and water to the more than two million Palestinians living there. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address ELKO Over 2,100 Elko County Republican voters backed former President Donald Trump in the Nevada Republican Caucus, the second round of voting this week. Trump received all of Nevadas 26 delegates, defeating Texas businessman and pastor Ryan Binkley. In Elko County, Trump won 2,155 votes and Binkley earned 26 votes, according to Elko County Republican Party Chairman Lee Hoffman. The win came two days after the state Presidential Preference Primary that saw former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley defeated by None of These Candidates. Elkos caucus On Thursday afternoon, a steady stream of voters entered the Elko Conference Center with lines frequently stretching out the door. Although the caucus was scheduled to start at 5 p.m., Hoffman said people began arriving at the Conference Center about an hour early. The Conference Center hosted precincts 1 through 14 for voters living in Elko, including precinct 32 for Ryndon residents. Many voters stopped by a table to find their precinct or were guided by volunteers to the rooms where their precincts were caucusing. Hoffman reported 2,181 registered voters participated in the caucus in all 41 precincts. He added that Elko County was the first county to submit results to the state GOP. Spring Creek's housing precinct 22 had the largest turnout with 159 voters in attendance followed by Spring Creek precinct 41 with 147 attendees. For people to find their precinct quicker, signs with the Nevada Secretary of States voter search webpage online were put on the walls by volunteers. Hoffman thanked "all the volunteers who made the caucus work and all the voters who turned out." "We really appreciate Elko County," he said. Caucus vs. Primary The caucus was the second time within a week Republicans voted for their choice of the partys nominee, which was two days after the Presidential Preference Primary. Nevadas dual electoral methods received national attention this week when Haley came in second in the primary with 30% of the vote to None of These Candidates topping the seven-candidate field with 63%. The Republican primary did not award delegates to the top vote-getter, unlike the Democratic primary in which most voters handed all 36 delegates to incumbent President Joe Biden. Instead, the Republican caucus determined which candidate received the states 26 delegates on his way to winning the partys nomination to run against Biden. The Nevada Republican Party determined a candidate could run in either the primary or caucus, but not both. Haley did not file to appear on the caucus ballot, thus eliminating her chances to win state delegates. The Republican caucus was backed by the courts after the Nevada Legislature passed AB126, which initially required both Republican and Democratic parties to eliminate the caucus system in favor of the primary system. Trump, whose name did not appear on the primary ballot, faced only Binkley in the caucus. The three other candidates who filed for the caucus Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy each suspended their campaigns last month and did not appear on the caucus ballots. Thursday nights win brought Trump closer to collecting the 1,215 delegates needed to secure the partys nomination, including a victory in another caucus conducted in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Trump won the territorys four delegates in his defeat of Haley who also appeared on the ballot, bringing him to a total of 63 delegates over Haleys 17 delegates. Statewide With more than 60,000 votes counted as of 5:36 a.m. Friday, Trump led with 99.1 percent of the vote. That included 99 percent support in Clark County, which includes Las Vegas and accounted for roughly half (29,900) of those votes. If we win this state, we easily win the election in November, Trump told a crowd at the Treasure Island in Las Vegas on Thursday night after the race was called. We have to win the election. The Trump campaign seized on the result this week, saying in a statement Haleys defeat was humiliating, embarrassing and utterly overwhelming. The result also provided cover for the campaign, which had begun to worry internally that Nevadas caucus result could prove hollow if turnout dipped too low, according to a report from Axios. At the Treasure Island victory party on the Las Vegas Strip at a resort owned by Trump megadonor Phil Ruffin Trump appeared eager to take the contest directly to Biden. In remarks that lasted less than 15 minutes and that came well before any substantial results were reported from Clark or Washoe counties, Trump pivoted to poll numbers that show him leading Biden in key swing states, asking: Is there any way we can call the election for next Tuesday? Thats all I want. Without any public confirmation from the state party, Trump also claimed turnout Thursday eclipsed the record Republican caucus turnout of 75,000 set in 2016. When Trump left the stage just after 9:30 p.m., only 371 votes across six rural counties had been reported though several thousand voters were reported by media outlets earlier Thursday at voting sites in Southern and Northern Nevada. Around 10 p.m., a tranche of more than 23,000 votes from Clark County pushed Trumps margin of victory over 99 percent exceeding the 22,600 votes Haley received in the primary. However, by early Friday morning, turnout had only reached about 60,000 votes, well short of the 2016 record. Statewide information in this report provided by The Nevada Independent. Resistance groups condemn US assassination of Kata'ib Hezbollah commander Iran Press TV Thursday, 08 February 2024 7:28 AM Several resistance groups in West Asia have condemned the US assassination of a high-ranking commander of Iraq's Kata'ib Hezbollah anti-terror group. Wissam Muhammad Saber, also known as Abu Baqer al-Saadi, the commander in charge of Kata'ib Hezbollah's operations in Syria, was martyred on Wednesday evening after a US drone strike hit a moving vehicle east of the Iraqi capital Baghdad. Two other Kata'ib Hezbollah officials also lost their lives in the attack. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said it had killed the "commander responsible for directly planning and participating in attacks on US forces in the region." In a statement, Secretary-General of Kata'ib Hezbollah Abu Hussein al-Hamidawi extended congratulations and condolences to Saadi's family and comrades as well as the Muslim Ummah and the Iraqi people over the commander's martyrdom. The assassination of Saadi "calls us to remain steadfast in the jihadist approach," he noted, referring to the endeavor for the sake of God. The Palestinian Hamas resistance group also strongly condemned the brutal US aggression on Iraq. "We consider this to be a violation of Iraq's sovereignty and security, done on behalf of the Zionist occupation's agenda and its expansionist projects," it added. Hamas further held the administration of US President Joe Biden responsible for the escalation of tensions in the region through its supply of arms and support for Israel's ongoing genocidal war on Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. "The region will not witness stability or peace except through an end to the Zionist occupation of our Palestinian and Arab lands," it asserted. Similarly, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad resistance movement denounced the US-targeted killing of the Iraqi anti-terror commander. The US administration had adopted an aggressive approach in a bid to "incite conflict in the region, [as well as] protect the Zionist entity and support the war of extermination" against the Palestinians. Meanwhile, Yemen's popular Ansarullah resistance movement condemned the "treacherous" and "cowardly" US criminal attack in Baghdad, saying it "comes in the context of American support for the Zionist entity." The assassination of Saadi is tantamount to "an aggression against the entire Iraqi people" and shows "the effectiveness of the strikes of the Iraqi resistance in support of the Palestinian people in Gaza," it emphasized. "The American presence in Iraq and the region is a major reason for destabilizing security and stability." Tensions have ratcheted up in West Asia due to the United States' support for Israel's bloody onslaught on Gaza, which has killed at least 27,708 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured 67,174 others over the past four months. Resistance groups, in retaliation, have launched attacks on bases housing US occupation forces in Iraq and Syria. Yemeni armed forces have also launched a pro-Palestine maritime campaign, targeting Israel-bound or affiliated ships, in the southern Red Sea, the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, the Gulf of Aden, and even the Arabian Sea. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 'Age of chaos': UN chief warns of 'dangerous' Security Council divisions over Gaza war Iran Press TV Thursday, 08 February 2024 6:09 AM UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned of "dangerous" divisions within the Security Council over Israel's ongoing war on the Gaza Strip, expressing concerns that the world is entering an "age of chaos." Guterres made the remarks during a speech at the UN General Assembly on Wednesday, as the Security Council remains deeply divided on how to address Israel's ongoing aggression against Gaza, which is entering its fifth month. "The United Nations Security Council - the primary platform for questions of global peace - is deadlocked by geopolitical fissures," the UN chief said. "This is not the first time the council has been divided - but it is the worst. Today's dysfunction is deeper and more dangerous," he added. Guterres went on to say that unlike during the Cold War, when "well-established mechanisms helped manage superpower relations," those mechanisms are missing "in today's multipolar world." "Our world is entering in an age of chaos... a dangerous and unpredictable free-for-all with total impunity," he warned. The UN chief also urged world leaders to seize the "Summit of the Future" opportunity, which will be held in September, to "shape multilateralism for years to come," while calling for reform of the international financial system as conflict grows worldwide. Guterres further expressed concern over Israel's intention to focus its war in Gaza on the southern city of Rafah. "Such an action would exponentially increase what is already a humanitarian nightmare with untold regional consequences," he said, stressing that it is time for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and the unconditional release of all captives. The Israeli regime has pressed on with its genocidal campaign and threatened a new ground assault on Rafah, where over half of Gaza's 2.3 million people are now living, mostly in makeshift tents. About 1.4 million people are sheltering in Rafah after being ordered there by Israeli forces, which previously described the area as a "safe zone." Israel waged its brutal war on besieged Gaza on October 7 after the Palestinian Hamas resistance group carried out an unprecedented operation against the occupying entity in retaliation for its intensified atrocities against the Palestinian people. So far, the Tel Aviv regime has killed at least 27,700 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured 67,000 others. The Tel Aviv regime has imposed a "complete siege" on the territory, cutting off fuel, electricity, food, and water to the more than two million Palestinians living there. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US, UK sustain aerial assaults in response to Yemen's pro-Palestinian operations Iran Press TV Thursday, 08 February 2024 12:44 AM The United States and Britain have carried out fresh aerial bombings against two western Yemeni provinces in response to the Arab Peninsula country's pro-Palestinian strikes. The assaults took place on Thursday, targeting Sa'ada Province in Yemen's extreme northwest and the coastal province of al-Hudaydah. According to Yemen's al-Masirah television network, the airstrikes hit the al-Qutainat area in Sa'ada's Baqim District. Earlier, Lebanon's al-Mayadeen television network had also reported taking place of a number of explosions in al-Hudaydah. The attacks against al-Hudaydah reportedly targeted the province's As Salif District. The US and the UK have been carrying out numerous such attacks against Yemen as means of trying to pressure the country into stopping a series of operations that it has been conducting in support of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. The operations by the Yemeni Armed Forces have been targeting either Israeli vessels or those heading towards the occupied territories' ports. The strikes have been seeking to pressure the Israeli regime into stopping an October 7, 2023-present American- and British-backed war against the coastal sliver. More than 27,700 Palestinians, mostly women, children, and adolescents, have died in the genocidal war so far. Yemen has vowed not to end the operations as long as the Israeli regime sustains the war and a simultaneous siege that it has been enforcing against Gaza. Most recently, the leader of Yemen's Ansarullah resistance movement said the rising aggression by the "evil trio" of the United States, the United Kingdom, and Israel would not affect the determination of the Yemeni people to support Palestinians in besieged Gaza. Stressing that Yemen was a free country, which could not be influenced by the US hegemony or authority, the Ansarullah chief said, "If we had been followers of treason and connivance, the Americans and the British would not have carried out the aggression against us." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Senate vets Biden's pick for key human rights diplomat The State Department's Bureau of Democracy, Human rights and Labor has not had a confirmed leader for three years. By Alex Willemyns for RFA 2024.02.08 -- Amid a backlog of Senate confirmation hearings, the U.S. State Department's Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor has not had a confirmed leader since President Joe Biden took office with a pledge to put human rights at the center of his foreign policy. That appears imminently set to change, with Dafna Hochman Rand - Biden's nominee for assistant secretary of state in charge of the bureau - breezing through a joint confirmation hearing on Thursday. A skeleton crew in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee met seemingly as a formality, with Chairman Sen. Ben Cardin noting the absence of Republicans, who were meeting to discuss the carving up of a bill that had included funding for the U.S. southern border. "There is a lot going on today," said Cardin, who is a Democrat from Maryland. "You may have read about some of that in the paper." But Cardin said their absence, in a way, showed their faith in the quality of the nominees before the committee, with Rand joined by two other White House nominees, including for ambassador to Timor-Leste. "We do have a scheduled vote for a little later and say afternoon, and there's negotiations going on," he said. "That's the reason why you might not see the type of normal participation at this hearing - it's a reflection, I think, of the positive quality of our nominees." Now a resident fellow at Georgetown University, Rand previously served as the assistant secretary of state for democracy, human rights and labor during the Obama administration, and until last year was director of the State Department's Office of Foreign Assistance. Rand faced no critical questions during her hearing on Thursday, with only Sen. Jim Risch, a Republican from Idaho who serves as his party's ranking member on the committee, ducking into the hearing at its opening to offer brief thoughts on her nomination. Risch said he hoped Rand would use the bureau's millions of dollars in foreign assistance to help legitimate rights defenders around the world "and not the agenda of the left." He then excused himself and left. Unfilled position The Senate is currently working through an extensive backlog of nominees from the White House, with the average number of days it takes to confirm a single person having grown from about 80 days under President George W. Bush to about 145 today under Biden. The unusual backlog has even led to a push to allow the Senate to confirm up to 10 appointees from each committee in a single vote, in order to cut down on the delays caused by procedural business. In the meantime, the position of assistant secretary of state for democracy, human rights and labor has been filled by an acting official who does not need to be confirmed by the Senate. Cardin said it was a position that is particularly important to fill as the assistant secretary represents "our voice in regards to our values" in the State Department, calling the delays "unacceptable." "Whether it's your generals from Myanmar or the Kremlin in Moscow, repression is on the rise," Cardin said, adding that "attacks against human rights defenders are up across the globe and coups and democratic backsliding threaten progress on every continent." During her testimony, Rand said that her top two priorities, if confirmed, would be to focus on "how we respond to the PRC," referring to the People's Republic of China, and Russia's threats to human rights. "The U.S. is not only competing with the PRC in the military and economic domains - these are critical to U.S. national security and prosperity - but this is also a contest about the fate of the rules based international order," Rand said. "The PRC's vision suppresses freedom of expression and persecutes ethnic and religious minorities." She also pledged to advocate for a more "consistent" U.S. foreign policy when it comes to defending human rights, even as she said there were times when other foreign policy interests interceded. Rand said she hoped to "make sure those times are few and far between" and said there were "careful and creative" ways to integrate human rights into U.S. foreign policy decisions that "improves our power, our standing, our influence and our leverage." After less than an hour, Cardin called on Rand and her two fellow nominees to respond to any written questions submitted by senators not present as soon as possible to expedite their confirmation. 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 February not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Micronesian leaders warn 'competitive political actors' exploiting delays in US funding Palau, Marshall Islands and Federated States of Micronesia are strategically important to the US military. By Stephen Wright for BenarNews 2024.02.08 -- Palau, Micronesia and the Marshall Islands, which occupy a militarily strategic expanse of the western Pacific, have warned that delays to U.S. financial assistance have created opportunities for "competitive political actors" in the region. Micronesia's President Wesley Simina on Thursday released a letter the three countries had sent to Senate leaders, President Joe Biden and other U.S. officials after funding for the island nations wasn't included as expected in a budget bill sent to the Senate this month. "Although we understand the delay in the legislation's approval, it has generated uncertainty among our peoples," the letter said. "As much as they identify with and appreciate the United States, which formerly governed our islands, this has resulted in undesirable opportunities for economic exploitation by competitive political actors active in the Pacific." The Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia and Palau, under agreements known as compacts of free association, give the U.S. military access to their vast ocean territories in exchange for funding and the right for their citizens to live and work in the U.S. The agreements also allow the U.S. to deny other countries access to the waters. Amid increased U.S.-China rivalry in the Pacific, the three island nations last year signed new economic assistance agreements with the U.S. that were significantly more generous. Budget battles between Democrats and Republicans have delayed implementation despite bipartisan support for the compacts. The supplemental budget bill sent to the Senate earlier this month faces many obstacles, with or without compact funding as part of it, due to partisan differences over other funding plans. The letter didn't name China but its inroads with Pacific island nations, including a security pact with the Solomon Islands in 2022, have recently galvanized renewed U.S. attention on the region. China's government has courted Pacific island nations as it seeks to isolate Taiwan diplomatically and gain allies in international institutions. Beijing regards Taiwan, a democracy and globally important tech manufacturing center, as a renegade province that must be reunited with the mainland. Last month Nauru, a Pacific island nation of 10,000 people, severed longstanding ties with Taiwan and recognized Beijing. The Solomon Islands and Kiribati switched their diplomatic recognition to Beijing from Taiwan in 2019. The Pacific island nations of Palau, the Marshall Islands and Tuvalu represent a quarter of Taiwan's remaining diplomatic allies. The letter dated Feb. 6 from Simina, Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. and Marshall Islands President Hilda Heine highlights the military importance of the countries' combined ocean territories, which cover an area that stretches west of Hawaii to near the Philippines and Indonesia. The U.S. military is building an over-the-horizon radar station in Palau while the Marshall Islands hosts a U.S. ballistic missile testing and space surveillance range on Kwajalein Atoll. The letter from the island leaders says they "cannot overstate the importance to all our nations of final approval by the U.S. Congress" of legislation for the renewed compacts. U.S. analysts have recently warned that failure to secure compact funding would be an enormous blunder for Washington and an opportunity for China to undermine American military dominance in the Pacific. Micronesia's previous president, David Panuelo, last year warned of aggressive efforts by China's diplomats to gain influence in the country, alleging use of bribes and other tactics that he characterized as "political warfare." BenarNews is an RFA-affiliated online news organization. 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 February not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address As Peace Negotiations Advance, Armenia And Azerbaijan Are Going It Alone By Joshua Kucera February 08, 2024 In their efforts to finally resolve their long-running conflict over the Nagorno-Karabakh region, can Armenia and Azerbaijan go it alone? For decades, the negotiations between the two adversaries were conducted with mediators -- varying combinations of Russia, the United States, and European powers. The influence of powerful global actors, it was thought, was necessary for the two sides to work through their mutual distrust. Now, though, with Nagorno-Karabakh back in Azerbaijani hands after a swift military offensive in September, Baku and Yerevan have been increasingly conducting their negotiations one-to-one. In December, they reached an unprecedented bilateral agreement to exchange prisoners and for Armenia's support for Azerbaijan's bid to host the COP29 climate conference. Senior officials from the two countries have been holding low-profile bilateral meetings. Diplomats continue to exchange drafts of a peace agreement back and forth and hold occasional meetings of a commission on the Armenia-Azerbaijan border itself, most recently on January 31. Western involvement, meanwhile, has been put on hold. Azerbaijan has stopped receiving the U.S. and European diplomats who had been trying to shepherd the process along. A meeting between the Armenian and Azerbaijani ministers had been planned for January in Washington, but it never took place, and it's unclear if it will be rescheduled. "This is an issue between our two countries, and we have to solve it ourselves," President Ilham Aliyev said in a January 10 interview with Azerbaijani media. "Armenia and Azerbaijan are grown-up enough to tackle the remaining issues by themselves," Elchin Amirbayov, Azerbaijan's senior envoy for special assignments who has been closely involved in the negotiations, told RFE/RL. Azerbaijanis have argued that the international mediators, at a time of sharpening Russia-West competition around the region, have been increasingly driven by geopolitical motives rather than by concern for peace in the Caucasus. But among Armenians, there is a fear that going it alone will leave them vulnerable to a much stronger Azerbaijan, which regularly suggests that if Armenia doesn't accede to its demands, Baku could use force to impose its will. Armenian officials argue publicly that talking without mediators is not so significant. "We have been engaged in negotiations by the facilitation of the European Union, among other facilitators, and nowadays we see that Azerbaijan, unfortunately, refuses to resume the negotiations in the existing frameworks," Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoian said on January 19. "We attach importance not so much to the issue of who facilitates the negotiations but to the principles according to which the negotiations should continue." A bilateral approach works to Armenia's disadvantage, said Benyamin Poghosian, a senior fellow at the Yerevan think tank APRI Armenia. Armenia wants mediators as guarantors for any potential deal, "as power imbalances continue to exist between Armenia and Azerbaijan," and mediators could help balance that out. But the government puts a brave face on it, he argues. "They understand that bilateral talks will be in Azerbaijan's favor," he said. "But they don't want to show that they have been forced by Azerbaijan to accept the bilateral format." Armenian-backed separatists seized the mainly ethnic Armenian-populated region from Azerbaijan during a war in the early 1990s that killed some 30,000 people. Diplomatic efforts to settle the conflict -- brokered by a tripartite group of the United States, France, and Russia -- brought little progress. The two sides fought another war in 2020 that lasted six weeks before a Russian-brokered cease-fire, resulting in Armenia losing control over parts of the region and seven adjacent districts. When negotiations began again in 2022 over a comprehensive settlement to the conflict, two rival tracks emerged: one led by Russia and another by the European Union, backed by the United States. Over time, the political negotiations largely shifted to the Western track, with Russia leading more technical negotiations on border delimitation. In January, the U.S. envoy to the negotiations, Louis Bono, visited Yerevan but not Baku. Azerbaijani media reported that he was not invited to the capital because the Azerbaijani government had refused to invite him. Later that month, the European Union's top Armenia-Azerbaijan negotiator, Toivo Klaar, also visited Yerevan but not Baku. Officials in Washington and Brussels have downplayed the snubs, saying that they were related to Azerbaijan's February 7 presidential election and expressing optimism that the Western-mediated talks can continue after that. President Aliyev, buoyed by the resounding victory to regain Karabakh last year, is on the verge of winning his fifth consecutive term. The move to bilateral talks should itself be an encouraging sign, said one Western diplomat familiar with the negotiations, who spoke to RFE/RL on condition of anonymity. "I really do think that that was significant," the diplomat said, referring to the December 2023 agreement on prisoners and the COP29 conference. "That really signals to us that probably there are more discussions going on than maybe they're publicly talking about. And that's a good thing." Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian has alluded to ongoing high-level talks, though details have not been made public. "Direct contacts between Armenia and Azerbaijan are now more or less active...particularly between my office and the office of the president of Azerbaijan," he said on January 20. Cutting out the mediators against Armenia's will represents another tactic in Azerbaijan's hardball negotiating strategy, said Shujaat Ahmadzada, a nonresident research fellow at the Baku-based Topchubashov Center, which focuses on international relations and security. Azerbaijan has suspended the Western track "to see whether facilitators will come up with favorable conditions," he said. The Armenian government is concerned that bilateral negotiations would leave them with no external protection were Azerbaijan to abrogate a peace agreement. But with Azerbaijan holding all the cards, they have little choice but to go along, Poghosian said. If it didn't accede to the bilateral negotiations, "first, Armenia would be perceived as the nonconstructive side," Poghosian said. "Second, if there are no negotiations, there is a rising possibility of military escalation. So, a decision was made: 'OK, we are not happy with the bilateral format, but if there are only two options -- no negotiations or bilateral negotiations -- then it's better to have the bilateral negotiations.'" In spite of the downsides for Armenia, Pashinian's government is willing to sign a deal with Azerbaijan for domestic political purposes as well, Poghosian argued. "The government needs to give some positive news to society," he said, "to show that, 'OK, we know we lost Nagorno-Karabakh, but we are receiving something in return. I told you I will bring peace. Here is the peace.'" Territorial Claims Many in Baku argue that the United States and European Union have disqualified themselves by not being neutral brokers in the conflict. For one, according to this argument, both Washington and Brussels appear eager to weaken Russia's position in the Caucasus and see the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace process as a means to that end. One of the key unresolved issues is who will provide security on new transportation routes connecting Azerbaijan's mainland to its exclave of Naxcivan through Armenian territory. While Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Russia agreed in 2020 that Russian border guards would do it, Armenia has since soured on Russia and is seeking alternative arrangements. Western diplomats are eager to oblige. Instead of Russia, possible alternative security arrangements for the transportation routes could be commercial companies or international organizations, the Western diplomat said. "The American and European goals are much more evenhanded and really want to work toward a durable and dignified peace. I don't know that I could say the same about the Russian intentions," the diplomat said. Russia, meanwhile, remains keenly interested in having its forces play such a critical role in the Caucasus. In January 18 remarks to the press, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov sharply criticized Armenia for trying to back out of the 2020 arrangement. "We know well that 'good' advice from Western friends is always present in the South Caucasus. Sometimes one or another of the participants in the process takes it into account. And everyone knows well that Western advice is aimed not at reaching an agreement between the countries of the region on the basis of a balance of their interests but on promoting their geopolitical aims," he said. "The peace treaty process therefore turns into a theater of geopolitical competition between the two rival blocs," said Vasif Huseynov, an analyst at the Azerbaijani government-run Center of Analysis of International Relations. "We may end up with a situation [where] we would create a larger geopolitical conflict in the region while ending a local conflict. Therefore, Baku insists on bilateral talks with Armenia with no involvement of external actors." Azerbaijanis lately have also claimed that both the United States and Europe have been increasingly taking Armenia's side. One flashpoint recently was a statement by Aliyev, during his January 10 interview, about the border delimitation process that appeared to imply a claim to large swathes of Armenia, including the capital, Yerevan, and the southernmost province of Syunik. The EU's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell criticized the comments: "Azerbaijan needs to return to substantive peace and normalization talks with Armenia. The latest territorial claims by President Aliyev are very concerning. And any violation of Armenia's territorial integrity will be unacceptable and will have severe consequences for our relations with Azerbaijan." Borrell "was basically accusing Azerbaijan [of] avoiding or shying away from negotiations, which is complete nonsense," said Amirbayov, the Azerbaijani envoy. The accusations about territorial claims are meant as a ploy to draw attention away from Armenia's own claims on Azerbaijan, Amirbayov said. "No one in Azerbaijan has interpreted his words as his intention to go ahead and occupy Armenian territory. These are all just tricks," he said. Azerbaijani officials have complained that Armenia continues to formally stake a claim to Karabakh in its constitution, the preamble of which makes reference to a 1989 act calling to unify Karabakh with Armenia. Amirbayov said there are several other such claims in Armenia's formal statements and legislation. For example, when Armenia's legislature ratified the 1991 Alma Ata accords, which accepted Soviet republic borders as the borders of the newly independent states, lawmakers added language saying that it did not apply to Karabakh. He also called attention to language on the Armenian Foreign Ministry website saying that Nagorno-Karabakh is "an integral part of historic Armenia," and recent Armenian filings in the European Court of Human Rights that imply a claim on Azerbaijan. "We have pointed the attention of the Armenian side to those facts many times, during our [in-person] negotiations, but also through different exchanges of comments," he said. "And the Armenian side acknowledges that this is the fact, but nothing is being done.... When they try to cheat, if I may use the word, if they try to put all the blame and the responsibility on our shoulders, and at the same time in the back of their minds still having these territorial claims against us, it's not going to work," he said. The Armenian Foreign Ministry declined to respond to RFE/RL's request for comments. But Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoian has alluded to the process Amirbayov described. "As part of the peace process, each side has noted problems in the other's legal framework and informed it about that, and both sides have provided relevant clarifications," he told RFE/RL's Armenian Service on January 25. "There will definitely be such discussions." With or without negotiators, Armenia and Azerbaijan still have to overcome disagreements on other critical issues, including how to demarcate their shared border; determining the fate of several small, Soviet-drawn enclaves; and how to manage new transportation links to Azerbaijan's exclave of Naxcivan. The agreement being negotiated is reportedly short and thin on specifics and aims just to be a framework statement of principles, like mutual recognition of one another's territorial integrity. Poghosian estimated it would be two to three pages and have 15 to 20 points. "It probably will have no mention of communications, corridors, enclaves, maps, whatever -- all this will not be part of this agreement," he said. "Essentially, what this framework agreement will do, it will keep all sovereign issues open for future negotiations." Even in a framework agreement, Azerbaijan will continue to push its advantage, research fellow Ahmadzada said. "Any framework deal has to be considered as laying ground for all maximalist demands. For example, instead of specific maps [from which to demarcate a border], it is preferred not to have any maps mentioned which in itself would widen bargaining space," he said. "What Baku wants right now is full legitimization (not only by Armenia, but also the Western world) of [its full retaking] of Karabakh, along with its other post-2020 goals: access to Naxcivan, enclaves, and border villages," he said. "Now, on all fronts, Baku is showing absolute maximalism, knowing that it is the only actor with huge power disposal at its hand." Recent signals from Baku, including Aliyev's statements on Yerevan and Syunik, have dampened hopes in Armenia that any sort of agreement will be signed soon, despite the continuing exchanges of draft agreements. "Unfortunately, after this positive step of the December 8 [bilateral agreement], we saw that Azerbaijan is not continuing with its constructive stance, to say the least," Mirzoian said on January 24. "That manifested itself through both the seventh Azerbaijani proposals on the treaty and the Azerbaijani president's latest interview. There was a significant regression and even a blow to the peace process on a number of key issues." "How serious is Azerbaijan about this agreement, or is it basically just another way of asking the Armenians to ratify on paper what Azerbaijan wants, with the threat of force hanging in the background?" asked Thomas de Waal, a senior fellow at Carnegie Europe. "That's the hardest thing to know." Foreign diplomats following the process are trying to remain optimistic. The Western diplomat said there was hope that the European and U.S. mediation may resume after the Azerbaijani elections. But analysts are not so confident that the multilateral process will resume, at least in anything more than a token format. "I'm skeptical," de Waal said. "It suits [Azerbaijan] better just to keep the outsiders at a distance." "[The bilateral talks] is the process now," he said. "This is what's left, and if this doesn't work, then we're in big trouble." Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/azerbaijan-armenia-peace- negotiations-one-on-one/32811181.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Aliyev On Verge Of Victory In Azerbaijan Presidential Vote That OSCE Slams As Lacking 'Genuine Pluralism' By RFE/RL's Azerbaijani Service February 08, 2024 BAKU -- The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) has slammed Azerbaijan's snap presidential election for being held in a "restrictive environment" and lacking genuine pluralism with incumbent strongman Ilham Aliyev on the verge of a landslide victory that will hand him a fifth consecutive term as president. Aliyev, who called the early election following Baku's swift and decisive victory over ethnic Armenian separatists in the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh, faced no opposition amid a crackdown on independent media and the absence of any real contender. The Central Election Commission said early on February 8 that with just over 93 percent of the ballots counted, Aliyev HAD garnered 92.05 percent of the votes. Election officials reported turnout of more than 76 percent of eligible voters. "While six other candidates participated in the campaign, none of them convincingly challenged the incumbent president's policies in their campaigns, leaving voters without any genuine alternative," the OSCE observer mission said in a statement issued on February 8. "While preparations for the election were efficient and professional, it lacked genuine pluralism and critical voices were continuously stifled.... The campaign remained low-key throughout, lacked any meaningful public engagement, and was not competitive," the OSCE observer mission said. According to the Central Election Commission, Zahid Oruj placed far behind in the vote with just 2.19 percent, while Fazil Mustafa came third with 2 percent. None of the other four ersatz candidates received more than 2 percent. Musavat and the People's Front of Azerbaijan (APFP), the two parties in Azerbaijan that offer genuine opposition to Aliyev -- who has exercised authoritarian control over the country since assuming power from his father, Heydar, in 2003 -- boycotted the race. The APFP on February 8 announced that it does not recognize the results of the election. "There was no real election as the polls were held without competition, freedoms were completely restricted, [the voting took place] in an environment of fear, threats, and administrative terror, and the declared results are not an expression of the will of the people and are illegitimate," the APFP said in a statement. A presidential election had not been scheduled to take place until 2025, but Aliyev, bolstered by Baku's recapture of Nagorno-Karabakh, announced the early vote in December to take advantage of the battlefield victory. Irregularities were reported as the vote took place. Observers "noted significant shortcomings, mainly due to issues of secrecy of the vote, a lack of safeguards against multiple voting, indications of ballot box stuffing, and seemingly identical signatures on the voter lists," the OSCE said. RFE/RL's Azerbaijani Service also collected reports of alleged irregularities, including so-called carousel voting, where individuals are transported to multiple polling stations to vote more than once and ballot tampering. Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Aliyev in a phone call on February 8, according to a statement on the Azerbaijani president's website. "The heads of state reaffirmed their confidence that allied and strategic partnership relations would continue to develop across various fields and discussed the prospects for cooperation," the statement said. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy also congratulated Aliyev in a message on X, formerly Twitter. "Congratulations to President Ilham Aliyev on his reelection," Zelenskiy wrote, adding, "I value mutual support for our states' sovereignty and territorial integrity." While Aliyev has voiced support for Ukraine's territorial integrity, Azerbaijan has maintained close ties with both Moscow and Kyiv. The 62-year-old Aliyev has stayed in power through a series of elections marred by irregularities and accusations of fraud. Under his authoritarian rule, political activity and human rights have been stifled. He called the snap election just months after Azerbaijani forces retook Nagorno-Karabakh region in a blitz offensive in September from ethnic Armenian forces who had controlled it for three decades. The offensive forced more than 100,000 ethnic Armenians to flee the region, leaving it nearly deserted. As Aliyev's popularity shot up dramatically following Azerbaijan's victory in Karabakh, a crackdown on independent media and democratic institutions intensified in the country. Several independent Azerbaijani journalists were incarcerated after Baku took over Karabakh on various charges that the journalists and their supporters have called trumped up and politically motivated. "Highly restrictive media legislation as well as recent arrests of critical journalists have hindered the media from operating freely and led to widespread self-censorship, limiting the scope for independent journalism and critical debate," the OSCE statement noted. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/azerbaijan-election-aliyev- landslide-irregularities-karabakh/32810371.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US Base at Oil Field in Eastern Syria Comes Under Missile Attack - Source Sputnik News 20240208 DAMASCUS (Sputnik) - A US military base at the Al-Omar oil field in the Syrian eastern province of Deir ez-Zor has come under missile attack for the second time in past 24 hours, a local military source told Sputnik on Thursday. "Three loud explosions were heard from the US base area and a cloud of smoke was seen above it," the source said, adding that a US helicopter was flying above the base. The attacks started taking place not long after the latest escalation of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, although it remains unclear if there is any connection. Threats from US President Joe Biden to retaliate apparently did not impress the attackers enough to stop what they are doing, with rocket and drone strikes against US military bases in the region not abating. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary Blinken's Call with President-elect Nayib Bukele of El Salvador US Department of State Readout Office of the Spokesperson February 8, 2024 The following is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with El Salvador's President-elect Nayib Bukele. The Secretary congratulated President-elect Bukele on his February 4 electoral victory. The Secretary reiterated his commitment to prioritizing good governance, inclusive economic prosperity, fair trial guarantees, and human rights under the United States' Root Causes Strategy. Secretary Blinken also reaffirmed shared values and longstanding friendship with the people of El Salvador. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Current tensions reinforce the importance for Kosovo and Serbia to return to the EU-facilitated dialogue: UK statement at the UN Security Council Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki at the UN Security Council meeting on Kosovo. 8 February 2024 Thank you, President, and I thank Special Representative Ziadeh for her briefing today. I also welcome the participation of President Vucic and Prime Minister Kurti in our meeting. President, next week marks the 16th anniversary of Kosovan independence. The UK welcomes the progress it has made as a sovereign state in that time. Yet for many years the absence of a normal relationship between Kosovo and Serbia has had implications for regional stability and for communities in both countries. Current tensions reinforce the importance for Kosovo and Serbia to engage with renewed commitments in EU-facilitated dialogue, and to make progress towards the normalisation of relations. The UK will continue to work in support of this goal alongside our wider efforts to build regional stability. Three immediate steps can help support this goal. First, Kosovo and Serbia should honour their existing commitments and avoid unilateral actions or rhetoric that could reduce prospects for a comprehensive and sustainable normalisation agreement. Second, Kosovo should exercise its sovereign powers in a way that is consistent with the vision of a multi-ethnic democracy embedded at the heart of Kosovo's constitution. Through its recent actions, Kosovo's central bank has sought to fulfil its responsibility to regulate the operation of foreign currencies. But the Kosovo Government's implementation of these measures so far has shown insufficient regard for the impact on Kosovo's minority communities. Kosovo's authorities should set out a clear plan to ensure that all affected Kosovo Serbs can continue to receive their incomes, and that essential services can operate until a sustainable solution is found. Finally, President, the UK calls on Serbia to ensure that those responsible for the attacks in Banjska in September are held to account. Regional stability and the interests of all communities are best served by the creation of a conducive environment that will allow further progress under the EU-facilitated dialogue. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address ELKO Although Elko Countys tax allocation for school projects is yet to be decided, county commissioners unanimously agreed on Wednesday to notify the Nevada Department of Taxation the county wont exceed the state tax cap. AB519 allows rural counties to tax beyond the cap for school projects. What this decision means is commissioners agree to keep all taxes below the $3.64 cap per $100 assessed valuation while still meeting the AB519 requirement that the county levies a tax for school projects. Commissioner Jon Karr made the motion on Wednesday for Elko County to tell the state the county's taxes will stay within the tax cap. The county can reallocate a part of our current tax rate if its not statutorily dedicated for another use and still comply with AB519, Elko County Manager Amanda Osborne said in an email on Thursday. The new oversight panel required under AB519, the bill that provides $64.5 million for a new school in Owyhee, agreed at its inaugural meeting last month to recommend to commissioners they dedicate 22 cents out of the 50 cents the county began assessing out of the window left when the school districts 75-cent pay-as-you-go tax was defeated. Karr chairs the oversight panel, and he suggested the 22-cent figure as half of the 44 cents in tax revenue going to the community projects fund. Another 6 cents out of the 50-cent tax goes to the Nevada Division of Forestry Wildland Fire Protection Program. I dont want to take any action today. We need to proceed very carefully, Commissioner Rex Steninger told fellow commissioners, stating the public should be involved in the decision on how much to tax. Susan Paprocki, the countys comptroller, said any public meetings would need to be held by the end of March so she knows what revenue might be coming into the county for preparation of the budget for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. Chairman Wilde Brough reminded the board early in the discussion if they decide to go over the tax cap, they must report that decision to the state no later than Feb. 21, but Steninger said that weve said all along we wont raise the tax. AB519, signed by Republican Gov. Joe Lombardo, states Elko County should levy a tax from between 1 cent and 25 cents for school projects, or the state will step in and levy 25 cents. Commissioners voted last month to file a lawsuit against the state over the provision that singles out Elko County on the tax requirements. The Nevada Legislature passed AB519 in its 2023 session to provide money for a new school in Owyhee 100 miles north of Elko after Owyhee grabbed statewide attention because of a contamination plume that threatens the current school and because of the condition of the current school. The Elko County School District didnt have the money for new construction in Owyhee, which is on the Duck Valley Indian Reservation, because voters defeated the longtime 75-cent pay-as-you-go tax for school construction in 2020 and then nixed a proposed 50-cent tax for school bonding in 2021. Elko County and cities in the county reacted as the end of the 75-cent tax approached by grabbing portions of those tax dollars before they expired. Will Adler of Silver State Government Relations, which represents the Shoshone and Paiute tribes at Owyhee and helped write AB519, told commissioners he agreed with Steninger the public should have a say in how the school tax money is spent. I wrote the oversight panel into the second draft. This is for continuing oversight of funds and how to spend the money going forward, he said, adding the new law provides for Elko County and other rural counties to tap the state for matching funds. AB519 sets aside $50 million for rural counties to seek project funding and another $50 million for tribes that have schools on their reservations. Commissioners also had concerns about what happens if the $64.5 million isnt enough for the Owyhee school project, but Alder said the Owyhee people are doing absolutely all they can to save every dollar on this project. They will take care of the core first, Adler said, explaining the core would be the classrooms and essentials for classes, while a gymnasium, for example, could come later. They are very mindful this is a one-time allocation, he said. Ashley Perkins, principal of the Elko Institute for Academic Achievement, told commissioners she couldnt imagine what the charter school could do with $64.5 million. The charter school is remodeling the former Barrick office building into classrooms for a maximum of 396 students. She said Owyhee has only 305 students. EIAA bought the building for $2.4 million, and the construction contract is for $5.73 million. The county provided $500,000 for that project out of the community projects fund. Perkins asked the county to consider the charter school for additional funding when allocating tax dollars, commenting EIAA is killing it with our data, referring to its test scores. Thats a great idea. She runs a five-star school, Steninger said. Elko County Chief Deputy District Attorney Rand Greenburg told commissioners any money raised through taxes under AB519 goes to the capital improvement fund for the school district, and we cant say where it goes. He said, however, the county could give money that is not attached to AB519 to the charter school. Commissioner Delmo Andreozzi wasnt so sure all the 22 cents recommended by the oversight panel should be allocated to the school district because theres a lot of competing needs for tax dollars, such as a new judicial complex that architects recently proposed in their needs assessment report. The complex cost was estimated at over $87 million, to include major renovation of current buildings as well as construction of a new courthouse and more. Andreozzi said the county also is involved in the new air alliance, as another example of competing needs. The alliance's goal is to help keep commercial flights coming into Elko Regional Airport by providing subsidies. Commissioners could talk more about the school tax at their 2:30 p.m. Feb. 14 meeting that is slated to certify primary election results, Brough said on Wednesday. The agenda for that meeting isnt out yet, but Osborne said in the email the board can take any action on the agenda. Gazans 'stalked by hunger, disease and death', warns UN's top aid official 8 February 2024 - Amid further fighting across Gaza on Thursday, including reports of deadly airstrikes in the Rafah governorate, the UN's top aid official, Martin Griffiths, echoed widespread international fears about a further escalation of the conflict. "As the war in Gaza encroaches further into Rafah, I am extremely concerned about the safety and wellbeing of families which have endured the unthinkable in search of safety," Mr. Griffiths said on X, formerly Twitter. The veteran humanitarian official's comments came as media reports indicated that Israeli airstrikes overnight into Thursday in Rafah left 14 dead, including five children. At the same time, the UN aid coordination office, OCHA, reported that the Israeli military on Wednesday announced "a temporary and tactical suspension of military activities in the western neighbourhood of Rafah between 10am and 2pm for humanitarian purposes". Guterres two-State solution call Condemning the spreading violence in Gaza, which is now into its fifth month, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told Member States on Wednesday that he was "especially alarmed by reports that the Israeli military intends to focus next on Rafah, where hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have been squeezed in a desperate search for safety". In a speech to Member States outlining his priorities for the year, the UN chief reiterated that "nothing justifies" Hamas's "horrific terror attacks" against Israel on 7 October that sparked massive bombardment and a ground operation. Only an "immediate humanitarian ceasefire and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages" could help to bring about peace, along with "irreversible actions towards a two-State solution", Mr. Guterres insisted. Relief lifeline threat Further hostilities in the Rafah governorate, where an estimated 1.4 million people now shelter, will very likely lead to the further loss of life, the aid community has warned. "More than half Gaza's population is crammed in Rafah, a town of originally 250,000 people right on Egypt's doorstep," said Mr. Griffiths, who is the UN's emergency relief chief and head of UN aid coordination office, OCHA. "Their living conditions are abysmal; they lack the basic necessities to survive, stalked by hunger, disease and death." Highlighting the increasing hopelessness felt by millions of Gazans uprooted by the violence - and the frustration of aid teams trying to help them - Mr. Griffiths warned that any further spread of fighting could create even more obstacles to relief efforts already hobbled by Israeli forces' repeated access restrictions and damaged infrastructure. Famine risk confirmed again The latest nutrition assessments carried out by humanitarians indicated that the risk of famine in Gaza is increasing by the day. Issuing that warning, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) cited particular concerns "for an estimated 300,000 people in northern Gaza who have been predominantly cut off from assistance and where food security assessments show the greatest needs". Humanitarian aid reaching Gaza City in the north of the Strip is "not enough to prevent a famine", WFP said, adding that "faster and sustained access" was urgently needed. The last time the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, was able to carry out a food distribution in the north of Wadi Gaza was on 23 January, according to OCHA's latest situation update. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Security Council debates Kosovo's new rules on Serbian currency 8 February 2024 - Trust building, not unilateral actions, are the linchpin in forging a peaceful path forward for Belgrade and Pristina, the UN's top official in Kosovo told the Security Council on Thursday, as the body called an urgent meeting at Serbia's request to debate new banking regulations that have triggered fresh tensions. The Prime Minister of Kosovo and Serbia's President joined Council members in a heated discussion centred on new rules, which came into force on 1 February. The Central Bank of Kosovo regulation made the Euro, not the Serbian dinar, the only currency allowed for cash transactions. Kosovo declared independence in 2008, but it is not recognized by Serbia. Briefing the Council, Caroline Ziadeh, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and head of the UN Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), said the new regulations will affect tens of thousands of Kosovo-Serbs living in four northern municipalities and, more broadly, the economy, which depends on their purchasing power. She said limited public explanation was offered, despite the fact that, since 1999, the dinar has served as the de facto primary currency for cash and commercial transactions in Kosovo-Serb majority areas. "Regardless which side takes them and what justifications are provided, and in the absence of unambiguous public communications, such actions predictably exacerbate an environment of insecurity and mistrust," she said, adding that unilateral actions are "cause for great concern". Recent incidents Despite positive momentum at the end of 2023, from an energy road map to customs documentation, she raised concerns about recent incidents. On Thursday, a cash-transfer truck was prevented entry into Kosovo, while some four million dinars confiscated by the Kosovo police on 3 February in the Peje/Pec municipality still await judicial and administrative action, she said. Tensions between authorities in Kosovo and Serbia have periodically erupted in recent years, including differences over vehicle licence plates and anti-smuggling operations alongside spates of violence. "Neither the Central Bank of Kosovo's new regulation, nor these recent Kosovo police operations, have contributed to de-escalation, as repeatedly called for by international interlocutors," she said. Belgrade and Pristina talks Kosovo and Serbia have been involved in European Union-led talks for more than a decade with a view to normalizing relations, but negotiations stalled last September following a shootout between a Serbian man and Kosovo police that left four dead. Calling on Pristina and Belgrade to continue their dialogue, the Special Representative said that upholding the rule of law is critical, and all related actions must be anchored in the principle of human rights. "It is crucial that efforts towards negotiated and mutually accepted solutions do not falter," she said. "Continuous effort to build greater mutual trust and respect are the only viable path to stability, prosperity and security." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address World News in Brief: Ukraine nuclear power plant update, DR Congo flood response, impact of US terrorism designations 8 February 2024 - The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) this week undertook his fourth visit to the beleaguered Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) in southern Ukraine, his office said on Thursday. IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi took stock of the safety and security situation at the plant as part of ongoing efforts to help prevent a nuclear accident during the ongoing war. Russian forces seized control of ZNPP - Europe's largest nuclear plant - shortly after the launch of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine nearly two years ago. Mr. Grossi noted that there had been no shelling since last May, when the UN Security Council established the five concrete principles for the protection of the plant. The principles state, among others, that there should be no attack of any kind from or against the nuclear plant. However, Mr. Grossi warned against any complacency towards the very real dangers that persist, recalling that the ZNPP is located on the frontline and came under fire several times in 2022. The plant has also lost all off-site power eight times, most recently in December, forcing temporary reliance on emergency diesel generators to provide the power needed to cool its reactors and maintain other important nuclear safety and security functions. UN aid chief allocates $6 million for DR Congo flood response As the Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to grapple with devastating flooding, UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths this week allocated $6 million from the Organization's core humanitarian fund to support the response, his office reported on Thursday. Heavy rains that began in December caused the Congo River to rise to levels not seen in more than 60 years, triggering catastrophic flooding. More than two million people across 18 out of the country's 26 provinces have been affected, and nearly 60 per cent are children. Flood waters have reportedly destroyed or damaged almost 100,000 homes, more than 1,300 schools, and some 267 health facilities. Crops have spoiled in waterlogged fields, sparking fears of food shortages in some places. The allocation from the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) will support nearly 400,000 people in areas such as health, food security, shelter, and protection. US terrorism sponsor designation impacts human rights, experts warn The United States must review its domestic framework that triggers sanctions against countries designated as State Sponsors of Terrorism (SST), independent experts appointed by the UN Human Rights Council said on Thursday. Currently four countries - Cuba, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), Iran and Syria - are on the US State Department's SST list. The experts said the unilateral designation "goes against the fundamental principles of international law, including the principle of sovereign equality of States, the prohibition to intervene into domestic affairs of states and the principle of peaceful settlement of international disputes." Furthermore, fundamental human rights "are negatively affected by the additional restrictions and prohibitions triggered by SST designations". The process through which the designation is made is also unclear and non-transparent, they added. The experts have previously raised concerns on the negative impact of over-compliance with the US Government. They said additional restrictions and unilateral sanctions create a chilling effect, blocking access to designated countries. "This all-encompassing isolation of the State designated as a sponsor of terrorism may negatively affect the delivery of essential goods, including food, medicine, medical equipment and other supplies, including humanitarian goods under UN Security Council humanitarian resolutions," they warned. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address One year later: AFMC continues to advance Strategic Plan Lines of Effort Published Feb. 8, 2024 By Marisa Alia-Novobilski Air Force Materiel Command WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio (AFNS) -- The Air Force Materiel Command continues to make progress on the lines of effort identified in its 2023 Strategic Plan as it develops, delivers, supports and sustains the war-winning platforms and capabilities our warfighters need to succeed. "Our Air Force relies on AFMC Airmen to deliver capabilities and maintain our installations across the enterprise. The strategic plan ensures we are leveraging all the tools and talent at our disposal to do this effectively," said Gen. Duke Z. Richardson, AFMC commander. "We continue to focus on enterprise solutions, digital materiel management, and collaboration with every MAJCOM for every weapon system as we look ahead and align our efforts to deliver on the blueprint for the Air Force of the future." The AFMC Strategic Plan, released early 2023, identifies four key lines of effort supported by cross-cutting attributes of speed, strength, endurance, balance, flexibility and coordination. The lines of effort are: Deliver Integrated Capabilities - Drive the integration of research, development, test, sustainment, support, and infrastructure to maximize readiness and lethality for each individual capability, and across all capabilities. - Drive the integration of research, development, test, sustainment, support, and infrastructure to maximize readiness and lethality for each individual capability, and across all capabilities. Strengthen Our Team - Advance the professional and personal development, retention, resilience, and innovation of our workforce so every AFMC Airman and Guardian can achieve their full potential. - Advance the professional and personal development, retention, resilience, and innovation of our workforce so every AFMC Airman and Guardian can achieve their full potential. Revolutionize Our Processes - Implement enterprise solutions, Digital Materiel Management, and other methods to revolutionize critical processes in support of the mission and warfighter. - Implement enterprise solutions, Digital Materiel Management, and other methods to revolutionize critical processes in support of the mission and warfighter. Amplify Warfighting Culture - Connect every AFMC Airman and Guardian to the mission and focus the materiel enterprise on delivering capabilities and services in support of operational execution and deterrence. Each line of effort directly supports AFMC's ability to enable Department of the Air Force priorities as it supports the warfighter through innovation, delivery of enterprise solutions, and ensuring every individual reaches their full potential. "As I've said in the past, in the machine of our nation's defense, we are the powerhouse," Richardson said. "We need to continue to find ways to be more effective and quickly leverage every available tool to create systems and processes to keep us competitive with our pacing challenge." Throughout 2023, AFMC teams marked several successes aligned to each Line of Effort in the plan. Below are just a few of the actions taken during the past year to ensure the command is optimized for the future. Line of Effort One - Deliver Integrated Capabilities : Re-optimizing for Great Power Competition : AFMC teams, with the Department of the Air Force, began efforts to bolster and integrate the work of every Center within the command toward delivery of the force design capabilities needed to deter, or fight and win if necessary. : AFMC teams, with the Department of the Air Force, began efforts to bolster and integrate the work of every Center within the command toward delivery of the force design capabilities needed to deter, or fight and win if necessary. New Software Directorate Created : A single software engineering collaboration organization was established within the Air Force Sustainment Center to integrate the command's software ecosystem capabilities to Air Force priorities and rapidly address the growth in volume and complexity of software-enabled weapon systems. The stand-up of the directorate eliminates duplication of efforts and aims to provide real-time solutions faster and more efficiently to meet the needs of the warfighter. : A single was established within the Air Force Sustainment Center to integrate the command's software ecosystem capabilities to Air Force priorities and rapidly address the growth in volume and complexity of software-enabled weapon systems. The stand-up of the directorate eliminates duplication of efforts and aims to provide real-time solutions faster and more efficiently to meet the needs of the warfighter. Wargames and Exercise Participation : AFMC personnel participated in multiple wargames and enterprise exercises, collaborating with hundreds of operators and subject matter experts from across the Unified Combatant Commands, Defense Agencies, National Laboratories, and other component services to assess the command's ability to deliver capabilities to sustain the legacy force and deliver future needs. Training exercises helped test the command's logistics enterprise to ensure sustainment readiness and the ability to support conflict deterrence and power projection against pacing challenges. : AFMC personnel participated in multiple wargames and enterprise exercises, collaborating with hundreds of operators and subject matter experts from across the Unified Combatant Commands, Defense Agencies, National Laboratories, and other component services to assess the command's ability to deliver capabilities to sustain the legacy force and deliver future needs. Training helped test the command's logistics enterprise to ensure sustainment readiness and the ability to support conflict deterrence and power projection against pacing challenges. Aviation Support Equipment Management Flight Established : A cross-major command collaboration led to the establishment of a new Aviation Support Equipment Management Flight in the 440th Supply Chain Operation Squadron, 735th Supply Chain Operations Group, Langley AFB, Virginia, which will embed with supply teams to lead enterprise management activities. The maintenance-focused flight will reach full operational capability in Fiscal Year 2025. Current efforts include foundational work to populate equipment maintenance documentation and health status to provide decision-level data to teams. The goal is to detail process guides, identify policy gaps, and address constraints and inefficiencies in activities. : A cross-major command collaboration led to the establishment of a new Aviation Support Equipment Management Flight in the 440th Supply Chain Operation Squadron, 735th Supply Chain Operations Group, Langley AFB, Virginia, which will embed with supply teams to lead enterprise management activities. The maintenance-focused flight will reach full operational capability in Fiscal Year 2025. Current efforts include foundational work to populate equipment maintenance documentation and health status to provide decision-level data to teams. The goal is to detail process guides, identify policy gaps, and address constraints and inefficiencies in activities. Spark Tanks Ignite Innovation: Spark Tank competitions ignited the innovative spirit inherent in AFMC Airmen who proposed hundreds of solutions to improve the mission across the command and the Department of the Air Force. Two AFMC innovations were selected as Department of the Air Force Spark Tank finalists, with impactful potential in flightline resupply and cyber assessment. An innovative digital design optimization idea won the AFMC-level competition, with the potential to reduce waste by identifying issues early in the acquisition process. Line of Effort Two - Strengthen Our Team : Digital Innovation and Integration Center of Excellence Establishment : A new Digital Innovation and Integration Center of Excellence was established in conjunction with the Air Force Institute of Technology to help accelerate integrated capability delivery through Digital Materiel Management across the materiel lifecycle and functional disciplines through education, research, consulting and best practices. DIICE will generate digital solutions centered on model-based systems integration efforts that result in improved execution of weapon acquisitions and support. : A new was established in conjunction with the Air Force Institute of Technology to help accelerate integrated capability delivery through Digital Materiel Management across the materiel lifecycle and functional disciplines through education, research, consulting and best practices. DIICE will generate digital solutions centered on model-based systems integration efforts that result in improved execution of weapon acquisitions and support. Improved Personnel Processes : AFMC improved accessions and retention across the command in 2023. The organization overcame time-constraining barriers to bringing new civilian hires on board faster by allowing earlier reporting while official transcripts are processing. The command also reduced hiring timelines by 54%, optimizing processes to bring new talent to the team faster. : AFMC across the command in 2023. The organization overcame time-constraining barriers to bringing new civilian hires on board faster by allowing earlier reporting while official transcripts are processing. The command also reduced hiring timelines by 54%, optimizing processes to bring new talent to the team faster. Civilian Sponsorship Program Revitalizatio n: AFMC revitalized the command Civilian Sponsorship Program to support new employees through job transitions and help build unit resilience, with the goal of enabling employees to be effective in their new roles faster. n: AFMC revitalized the command to support new employees through job transitions and help build unit resilience, with the goal of enabling employees to be effective in their new roles faster. Spouse Support Program Created: A new AFMC Civilian Spouse Placement Program provides another avenue for employment opportunities for those spouses subject to a Permanent Change of Station, helping those who are eligible and qualified to attain employment at new locations. Line of Effort Three - Revolutionize Our Processes: Digital White Paper Published : The release of the AFMC white paper, " Digital Materiel Management: An Accelerated Future State ," established a shared vision on a new approach to accelerating the acquisition life cycle through models, data and collaborative infrastructure. This digital-first approach, which emphasizes close collaboration between government, academia and industry, aims to ensure the U.S. can surpass adversaries in fielding, sustainment, and modernization. : The release of the AFMC white paper, " ," established a shared vision on a new approach to accelerating the acquisition life cycle through models, data and collaborative infrastructure. This digital-first approach, which emphasizes close collaboration between government, academia and industry, aims to ensure the U.S. can surpass adversaries in fielding, sustainment, and modernization. Digital Acceleration Task Force Established : A new Digital Acceleration Task Force will drive the implementation of Digital Materiel Management across the enterprise while accelerating the Department of the Air Force's digital transformation efforts. The DATF is working closely with the Digital Transformation Office, other services, and industry partners to develop collaborative digital environments, establish industry consortia, create a digital playbook, and secure and structure life cycle data. : A new Digital Acceleration Task Force will drive the implementation of Digital Materiel Management across the enterprise while accelerating the Department of the Air Force's digital transformation efforts. The DATF is working closely with the Digital Transformation Office, other services, and industry partners to develop collaborative digital environments, establish industry consortia, create a digital playbook, and secure and structure life cycle data. Digital Materiel Management Industry Association Consortium Created : AFMC spearheaded efforts to establish a new Industry Association Consortium to unite experts from the Department of the Air Force, Army, defense industry and academia to collaborate on Digital Materiel Management and Digital Transformation solutions. The IAC will enable a cooperative framework across the engineering, program management, contracting, logistics, financial management, and test and evaluation fields. : AFMC spearheaded efforts to establish a new to unite experts from the Department of the Air Force, Army, defense industry and academia to collaborate on Digital Materiel Management and Digital Transformation solutions. The IAC will enable a cooperative framework across the engineering, program management, contracting, logistics, financial management, and test and evaluation fields. Lean Processes Executed: AFMC implemented several lean processes, led by the Financial Management Directorate, to create a comprehensive, command-informed approach to the current Air Force publication waiver process. This led to the evaluation and waiver of more than 400 moderate and low-risk compliance items across 15 financial management series publications, saving manhours and helping to reduce bureaucracy-laden capability delivery timelines. Line of Effort Four - Amplify Warfighting Culture: Blueprint to Bombers Keynote : Richardson's keynote address during the Air Force Association's 2023 Air, Space and Cyber Conference, used the B-21 Bomber program to highlight AFMC Airmen impacts on each aspect of the capability delivery process. In his speech, Richardson outlined how the B-21 program exemplifies AFMC's commitment to delivering integrated capabilities, covering all aspects of the life cycle, from research and development, through acquisition and testing, to long-term sustainment and support. : during the Air Force Association's 2023 Air, Space and Cyber Conference, used the B-21 Bomber program to highlight AFMC Airmen impacts on each aspect of the capability delivery process. In his speech, Richardson outlined how the B-21 program exemplifies AFMC's commitment to delivering integrated capabilities, covering all aspects of the life cycle, from research and development, through acquisition and testing, to long-term sustainment and support. Workforce Threat-Informed: Ongoing efforts are helping to create a fully threat-informed workforce across the command. Multiple current intelligence briefs at all classification levels were developed and distributed command-wide in 2023 to generate greater awareness of the adversary threat and ensure the workforce understands the criticality of what they do to combat these in their daily work. Throughout 2024, AFMC will continue to work actions aligned to each Line of Effort as it remains committed to ensuring the Department of the Air Force remains ready and able to meet current and future threat needs. Cross-department and defense industry collaboration will remain critical to success as AFMC continues to focus on horizontal integration of capabilities and enterprise solutions. "Our nation and our Air Force rely on AFMC to deliver war-winning capabilities, project power to deter our adversaries, provide sustained support, build infrastructure, and develop technological solutions for our warfighter needs," Richardson said. "The Strategic Plan will continue to guide our success, powered by the outstanding Airmen and Civilians across the command. Together, we are one AFMC, powering the world's greatest Air Force." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address USS Gunston Hall (LSD-44) arrives in Portsmouth ahead of Steadfast Defender US Navy 08 February 2024 From By Task Force 61/2 Public Affairs PORTSMOUTH, United Kingdom -- USS Gunston Hall (LSD-44), a Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship arrived in Portsmouth, United Kingdom, Feb. 8, 2024 for a scheduled port visit prior to their participation in Exercise Steadfast Defender 24. Exercise Steadfast Defender will involve approximately 90,000 forces from 31 Allies and Sweden. The exercise will validate NATO's ability to deploy forces rapidly from North America and other parts of the Alliance to reinforce the defense of Europe, and to showcase NATO's ability to conduct and sustain complex multi-domain operations over several months, across thousands of miles, and in any conditions, from the High North to Central and Eastern Europe. "The Gunston Hall and her team are looking forward to building on the strong strategic relationships we have established in NATO," said Cmdr. Christopher W. Van Loenen, commanding officer, Gunston Hall. "We are excited to have our partners and allies embarked on our ship throughout Steadfast Defender 2024, showcasing interoperability and our ship to shore capabilities." This is the first port call for Gunston Hall following its departure from Naval Station Norfolk, Jan. 24. During Steadfast Defender, Gunston Hall will participate in Exercises Joint Warrior and Nordic Response. The Gunston Hall arrived in the Sixth Fleet area of operations on Feb. 1. Gunston Hall is one of the most versatile amphibious platforms in the U.S. Navy. With two large helicopter landing pads, the largest well deck in the fleet and troop berthing facilities, she has the ability to embark a diverse array of military forces, including NATO Allies and partners when needed. The U.S. ship is among more than 50 NATO naval assets, 80 air platforms, and 1,100 combat vehicles participating in Steadfast Defender. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the NATO Alliance, and the exercise is the largest NATO exercise in 36 years. For over 80 years, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF) has forged strategic relationships with allies and partners, leveraging a foundation of shared values to preserve security and stability. Headquartered in Naples, Italy, NAVEUR-NAVAF operates U.S. naval forces in the USEUCOM and USAFRICOM areas of responsibility. U.S. Sixth Fleet is permanently assigned to NAVEUR-NAVAF, and employs maritime forces through the full spectrum of joint and naval operations. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iraq Criticizes US Strikes After Baghdad Attack Killed Iran-Backed Militant Group Commander By Carla Babb February 08, 2024 Iraq Thursday sharply criticized a U.S. drone strike that the U.S. military said killed a leader of an Iranian-backed militant group, with an Iraqi spokesman calling the attack "a blatant assassination" that showed "no regard for civilian lives or international laws." Yehia Rasool, a spokesman for the Iraqi prime minister, said the U.S.-led coalition that has operated in Iraq to counter the Islamic State group "consistently deviates from the reasons and objectives for its presence on our territory." "The trajectory compels the Iraqi government more than ever to terminate the mission of this coalition, which has become a factor for instability and threatens to entangle Iraq in the cycle of conflict," Rasool said in a statement. U.S. Central Command, which oversees U.S. military operations in the Middle East, said the strike on Tuesday killed a commander of the militant group Kataib Hezbollah who was "responsible for directly planning and participating in attacks on U.S. forces in the region." Two U.S. officials confirmed to VOA that the commander was operations officer Wisam Mohammad al-Saedi. Photos on social media allegedly showed his Iraqi identification card that was pulled from his body. VOA had earlier reported the U.S. military was involved in an airstrike against a high-value target in the Middle East but had not identified al-Saedi by name. Video shared on social media shows a vehicle engulfed in flames on a Baghdad highway. The U.S. strike was in response to the almost 170 drone, rocket and missile attacks against U.S. forces in the Middle East since mid-October, one of which killed three U.S. service members and wounded dozens more in northern Jordan last week. A wave of U.S. airstrikes in Iraq and Syria on Friday pounded targets associated with Iranian-backed militias responsible for the attacks. The strikes targeted three locations in Iraq, as well as another four in Syria, and they destroyed more than 80 individual targets, ranging from command-and-control centers and intelligence hubs to missile and drone storage facilities, according to the latest U.S. assessments. But while U.S. officials have defended the strikes as necessary following a drone attack that killed three U.S. soldiers at a base in Jordan last month, Iraqi officials have voiced increased anger, summoning the U.S. charge d'affaires in Baghdad to protest. They have charged that some of the U.S. strikes hit elements of Iraq's own security forces. The U.S. State Department said Monday that Iraq was not given any warning but added the U.S. strikes should not have come as a surprise. Pentagon press secretary Major General Pat Ryder said Monday the U.S. had no plans for a long-term military campaign against the militias in Iraq and Syria, but he noted the U.S. response to the killing of its service members was "not complete." The U.S. has about 2,500 troops in Iraq tasked with advising and assisting Iraqi security forces as they pursue the remnants of the Islamic State terror group, also known as ISIS or Daesh. And while talks between the U.S. and Iraq are under way to eventually reduce the U.S. military footprint and transition from the counter-IS mission to what officials describe as more traditional military-to-military relationship with Baghdad, the process has been complicated by the attacks. The United States has also been carrying out strikes in response to attacks by Iran-backed Houthi militants in Yemen who have threatened key Red Sea shipping lanes. U.S. Central Command, which overseas U.S. forces in the region, said Thursday it conducted two separate strikes late Wednesday against Houthi cruise missiles that were prepared to launch. A CENTCOM statement said the missiles "presented an imminent threat to U.S. Navy ships and merchant vessels in the region." The Houthis have said their Red Sea attacks are in solidarity with the people of Gaza and have vowed to continue them. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US Senate Advances Stand-Alone $95 Billion Foreign Aid Bill By Ken Bredemeier, Katherine Gypson February 08, 2024 The U.S. Senate advanced a stand-alone $95 billion foreign assistance bill Thursday by a vote of 67-32, setting up a final vote on $60 billion in aid to Ukraine and $14 billion in assistance for Israel. After hours of negotiations, the Senate cleared the 60-vote threshold needed to advance to a final vote on the aid package that includes billions of dollars in assistance for Indo-Pacific countries to confront Chinese aggression. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer introduced the measure late Wednesday after a $118 billion bipartisan border security agreement failed in the Senate, despite months of negotiations. Schumer said he consulted the White House about a backup plan after former President Donald Trump reportedly contacted Republican senators asking them not to vote for the bipartisan agreement. "We knew about a week ago when Trump mixed in and said, you know, wanted it to be political. He said he preferred chaos at the border because he thinks it helps him electorally. We knew that we might have to have a separate option," Schumer told reporters. If passed, the bipartisan agreement would have increased immigration detention capacity, ended the practice of allowing migrants to remain in the United States while claiming asylum and allowed presidents to temporarily shut down the U.S.-Mexico border if crossings reached certain levels. Conservative Senate Republicans said the bill didn't do enough. "This bill doesn't fix it," Senator Ted Cruz said earlier this week. "Understand this border crisis is deliberate. Joe Biden caused it. He caused it by his own unilateral decisions." The immigration issue, long unresolved by Congress and succeeding Republican and Democratic presidencies, quickly became embroiled this year in the politics of the 2024 presidential election campaign. The Senate is expected to work through this weekend, as lawmakers add amendments on border security to the foreign aid legislation. Biden said at a Tuesday news conference he would hold Trump accountable for the arrival of more migrants. Under existing law, many who enter illegally and claim asylum are able to remain in the United States for months or years before backlogged immigration courts can consider their cases. With the defeat of the immigration bill, the Senate now is set to consider legislation that would provide the aid to Ukraine and Israel, minus any border immigration provisions. Biden on Tuesday urged Congress to show "some spine" and pass the broader bill, which was developed during months of negotiations by a small group of Democratic and Republicans senators. Even if the Senate had passed the bill, House Speaker Mike Johnson, leader of the narrow Republican majority in the House of Representatives, said the measure would have been "dead on arrival" in the lower chamber. He said the migration restrictions were not tough enough. In his Tuesday speech, Biden said, "All indications are this bill won't even move forward to the Senate floor. Why? The simple reason: Donald Trump." He added, "Because Donald Trump thinks it's bad for him politically." Biden said if the legislation is defeated, "Every day, Americans will know why the border is not secure Donald Trump." Trump had urged Republicans to oppose the proposed migration controls as weak. Trump said he would impose tougher rules to keep migrants out of the U.S. if he reclaims the presidency in the November election, where he is likely to again face Biden. The United States has been Ukraine's biggest benefactor, and Biden said it was important to send the new $60 billion in aid to Kyiv to help it fend off Russia's nearly two-year-old full-scale invasion. "We can't walk away now," he said, adding that to deny the additional aid would be a gift to Russian President Vladimir Putin. "History is watching," Biden said. "If we don't support Ukraine, history will never forget." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN Chief Warns of 'Gigantic Tragedy' if Israeli Military Expands Fight to Rafah By Margaret Besheer February 08, 2024 U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres renewed his appeal Thursday for a humanitarian cease-fire before a "gigantic tragedy" develops in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, where Israel's military is reported to be planning to expand its offensive. "Looking into the situation in Rafah, where you have now more than half the population of Gaza that were pushed there they didn't go because they wanted to, they were pushed there," Guterres told reporters. "Looking at that situation, it is time to have a humanitarian cease-fire before a gigantic tragedy develops in Gaza if we have the same kind of intensity of military operations in Gaza as we've seen in Khan Younis and other parts of Gaza's territory." More than half of Gaza's population of 2.2 million people have crammed into the city along the border with Egypt in search of safety, despite some Israeli strikes there. At the White House, National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said the Biden administration has not seen any convincing signs that Israel is about to conduct imminent military operations in Rafah. But on Wednesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared to signal an operation, saying at a news conference that his government had "instructed the IDF [Israel Defense Forces] to operate also in Rafah," as it is one of the "two last strongholds of Hamas" Khan Younis being the other. Some in Israel have suggested that Egypt should open its border to admit fleeing Gazans, an idea Guterres rejected. "I think that we should push to avoid a tragedy, instead of pushing for things to facilitate a tragedy," he said. The U.N. chief also questioned the force Israel's military is using in Gaza, noting that Israeli leaders have said they are fighting Hamas and not the Palestinian people. "If that is the case, I can't understand how this is conducted in such a way that has led in Gaza to reportedly around 28,000 people killed, to 75% of the population displaced, and to a level of destruction of entire neighborhoods at the level that it has happened," he said. "I think that there is something wrong in the way the military operations have been conducted." Israel launched its air, ground and sea invasion of Gaza after Hamas fighters infiltrated the country on October 7, killing 1,200 people and taking another 240 hostage. In late November, about 100 hostages were released during a brief humanitarian pause. Netanyahu said on Wednesday that his military is "on our way to an absolute victory" and needs only months to finish the job of eliminating Hamas. No replacement for UNRWA The U.N. agency that assists Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, has come under intense scrutiny and criticism in recent weeks, since Israel accused a dozen staffers of participating in the October 7 terror attacks. At least 16 countries, including top donor the United States, have suspended their funding to the agency. Guterres and UNRWA Commissioner General Philippe Lazzarini acted immediately upon receiving information from Israel and fired nine of the accused. Another staffer was confirmed dead, and officials are clarifying the identity of two others. An internal U.N. investigation has begun, as well as an independent review of the agency's operations. At Wednesday's news conference, Netanyahu called for UNRWA to be dismantled. Guterres said UNRWA is critical and irreplaceable. "There is no other organization that has a presence in Gaza that is capable of being able to respond to the needs," he said. There have been several media reports of a "dossier" containing evidence about the 12 UNRWA staff implicated in the October 7 attacks, but the U.N. says it has not seen it, nor has it received anything in writing from the Israeli government about the allegations, which it said, nonetheless, are credible. Guterres said he terminated the contracts of the individuals before an internal investigation, in the "best interests" of the United Nations. "We couldn't run the risk not to act immediately as the accusations were related to criminal activities that are really dangerous," he told reporters. Political trap? The secretary-general said he was surprised to read press reports that Israel's military and Foreign Ministry were not willing to share the dossier with the United Nations. "And even worse, I read in the press that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs didn't expect me to act," Guterres said. "I can't imagine that this was a trap." He said if Israel presents him with any further credible allegations about Hamas infiltration at any level of the United Nations, he will act on it immediately. Israeli officials have been unrelenting in their criticism of the United Nations and Guterres since the war began. Israel's U.N. ambassador has repeatedly called for his resignation. But Guterres, a longtime politician and a former prime minister of Portugal, has appeared unmoved by the barrage of criticism. He has repeatedly called for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire, the release of all hostages and for both sides to abide by international law. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Blinken Heads Home Without Israeli-Hamas Cease-Fire or Hostage Release By Nike Ching February 08, 2024 U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken returned to Washington from the Middle East on Thursday with no new deal in hand for a cease-fire in the four-month Israel-Hamas war in Gaza or release of any more hostages held by the militants. Blinken and other U.S. officials said they remained optimistic a halt in the fighting can be achieved and 100 or so remaining hostages freed. But Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu derided a Hamas plan that would leave the militants in control of the Gaza Strip as "delusional" and said Israeli forces would fight to win "absolute victory." Meanwhile, the White House announced that President Joe Biden would host Jordan's King Abdullah II in Washington on Monday for talks on resolving the Israel-Hamas conflict. Blinken wrapped up a four-nation Mideast trip by meeting with Netanyahu's war cabinet, including former military chiefs Benny Gantz and Gabi Eisenkot. The top U.S. diplomat said he would focus on "the hostages and the strong desire that we both have to see them returned to their families, the work that's being done to that end." But late Wednesday, Blinken acknowledged sharp differences between a cease-fire plan offered by Israel, the U.S., Qatar and Egypt that would last several weeks and free hostages and Hamas' response calling for an Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza, an end to its bombardment of Gaza and the right for Hamas to govern the territory and rebuild its military capability. "Clearly there are things that Hamas sent back that are absolute non-starters," Blinken said at a news conference. "But, at the same time, we see space to continue to pursue an agreement." "And these things are always negotiations," he said. "It's not flipping a light switch. It's not 'yes' or 'no.' There's invariably back and forth." A senior Hamas official said a Hamas delegation was in Cairo on Thursday to continue negotiations with Egyptian and Qatari officials. The United States has been Israel's staunchest ally in its fight against Hamas following the militants' shock October 7 attack on Israel that killed 1,200 people. But Netanyahu was dismissive of Blinken's assessment that the Hamas' plan could at least serve as a starting point for cease-fire discussions. "We are on the way to an absolute victory. There is no other solution," Netanyahu said at a news conference after meeting with Blinken. He said Israel's war effort would take months, not years. The Israeli leader also appeared to dismiss concerns from the U.S. and others about expanding Israel's military operations in southern Gaza, particularly in Rafah on the Egyptian border, where more than a million Palestinians have fled at Israel's demand to escape fighting further to the north. Blinken said, "On all of my previous visits here and pretty much every day in between, we have pressed Israel in concrete ways to strengthen civilian protection, to get more assistance to those who need it. And over the past four months, Israel has taken important steps to do just that," he said. "And yet ... the daily toll that its military operations continue to take on innocent civilians remains too high." In rejecting the Hamas cease-fire plan, Netanyahu also called for the dismantlement of the United Nations relief agency for Palestinians, the main distributor of international humanitarian assistance in Gaza, after allegations that a dozen of its employees took part in the Hamas October attack. Blinken appealed to Netanyahu and other Israelis not to let vengeance dictate their continued response. "Israelis were dehumanized in the most horrific way on October 7," he said. "And the hostages have been dehumanized every day since. But that cannot be a license to dehumanize others." The Hamas-controlled Gaza health ministry says Israel's counter-offensive has killed more than 27,500 people and displaced about 2 million Palestinians in Gaza from their homes. In its proposal, Hamas called for three 45-day phases, first releasing all remaining women and children, as well as older and sick men, in exchange for an unspecified number of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. The Hamas plan calls for Israel to withdraw from populated areas and end its aerial bombardment while also allowing far more humanitarian aid to enter Gaza and permitting Palestinians to return to their homes, including in devastated northern Gaza. The second phase, to be negotiated during the first, would include the release of all remaining hostages, mostly soldiers, in exchange for all Palestinian detainees over the age of 50, including senior militants, to be freed by Israel. Israel would release an additional 1,500 prisoners, 500 of whom would be specified by Hamas, and complete its withdrawal from Gaza. In the third phase, the sides would exchange the remains of hostages and prisoners. Israel says it believes more than two dozen of the remaining 130 or so hostages in Gaza have already died or been killed. Blinken's trip to the Mideast was his fifth since the war started. He has reiterated the U.S, stance that creation of a Palestinian state is the best way to ensure lasting peace and security for Israelis and Palestinians alike, and greater integration for the region. According to the State Department, Blinken also emphasized the urgent need to lower tensions in the Israeli-occupied West Bank and prevent the conflict from expanding. Critics have attacked Netanyahu for having no definitive plan for governing Gaza after the war ends. He said Wednesday, "The day after is the day after Hamas. All of Hamas." Netanyahu has rejected any arrangement that would leave Hamas in full or partial control of Gaza. He also said Israel is the "only power" capable of guaranteeing security in the long term. Some information for this story came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Taliban Consider Attending Doha Meeting, Reject New UN Envoy By Akmal Dawi February 08, 2024 Taliban officials remain opposed to the possible appointment of a U.N. envoy but say they are considering "meaningful participation" in an upcoming international meeting on Afghanistan. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will convene a meeting of various countries' special representatives for Afghanistan in Qatar on February 18 to discuss engagement strategies with de facto Taliban authorities. A key agenda item for the two-day session is the potential appointment of a U.N. envoy who would coordinate increased international engagement with Taliban leaders in Kabul. The appointment, recommended in an independent U.N. assessment, is backed by the United States and its European allies. China and Russia abstained in a December 2023 U.N. Security Council vote on a resolution that authorized the secretary-general to appoint a special envoy for Afghanistan. "In the presence of UNAMA [the U.N. Assistance Mission for Afghanistan], there is no need for the appointment of a new envoy," Taliban's deputy chief minister, Abdul Kabir, told Tomas Niklasson, the special envoy of the European Union for Afghanistan, on Wednesday. UNAMA, a political mission headed by a special representative of the secretary-general, was established in 2002 and its mandate is annually renewed by the Security Council. While the U.N. has not said whether it has invited the Taliban to the Qatar meeting, a statement from the Afghan foreign ministry said Kabul is mulling meaningful participation. "Overall, the Islamic Emirate [of Afghanistan] has a positive view about this meeting," the statement quoted Amir Khan Muttaqi, the Afghan foreign minister, as saying on February 3. The Taliban's request to represent Afghanistan at the U.N. has been denied for the past two years and no country has formally declared its recognition of the Taliban government. Intransigence Since reclaiming power in 2021, Taliban leaders have largely ignored international and domestic calls to form an inclusive Afghan government and ensure women's rights to work and education. Human rights organizations caution that increased engagement with the Taliban risks legitimizing a leadership accused of maintaining discriminatory practices and committing a range of human rights violations, including what some have labeled "gender apartheid." "The Taliban are not in a position to set conditions for the international community. The Taliban need the international community more than vice versa. They should think and act rationally," Hugo Llorens, a former U.S. charge de affairs in Afghanistan, told VOA. Should the Taliban refuse to cooperate with a new U.N. envoy, it could further limit the international community's capacity to respond to the political and humanitarian crises in Afghanistan, Llorens said. "The Taliban must show they are worthy of recognition." However, Taliban officials accuse Western governments of disregarding Afghan realities and imposing their own agendas. "Anyone who tries to hurt Afghanistan's security and economy, and impose political and external pressures, will get no results," Yaqub Mujahid, Afghanistan's defense minister, said on Wednesday at a gathering in Kabul. The United States and the U.N. have imposed distinct sets of sanctions on Taliban leaders and entities, citing concerns related to terrorism. The Taliban have rejected those accusations and say the sanctions disproportionately burden the Afghan economy, hindering humanitarian aid and economic development. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Azerbaijani Ambassador to Vietnam Shovgi Kamal Oglu Mehdizade (Photo: baophapluat.vn) Reporter: The year of 2023 was a very important year in the traditional friendship between Vietnam and Azerbaijan, when the two countries celebrated the 100th birthday of the late Azerbaijani leader Heydar Aliyev - a great friend of Vietnam, as well as the 40th anniversary of his visit to Vietnam in 1983. Over the past year, how has the Vietnam - Azerbaijan relationship been practically and effectively implemented? In 2024, Azerbaijan will solemnly celebrate the 65th anniversary of President Ho Chi Minh's historic visit to Baku - the visit that Azerbaijan considers a milestone marking the start of relations between the two countries and two peoples. In your opinion, how important is this milestone in strengthening the traditional friendly relationship between Vietnam and Azerbaijan? Azerbaijani Ambassador Shovgi Kamal Oglu Mehdizade: Let me take liberty to unite the two above-mentioned questions, as they are very correlated to each other from the historic point of view and definitely should be considered together. The role of our national leaders in the establishment of historic friendship between our nations is essential. Along with the general line of strategic cooperation between the two countries, Viet Nam and USSR (Azerbaijan was part of USSR), our national leaders had a personal dedication to establishment of friendship. During the very hard time of war and the striving of Vietnamese people to reunite the country and establish a strong sovereign state, President Ho Chi Minh visited a number of Soviet Republics. The visit to Baku has outstanding importance. Immediately after this visit, young Vietnamese started to study in Baku, especially in the field of oil and gas. The Great Son of Vietnam was confident that immediately after the victory and full liberation of the country, this sphere will be the driving force of the whole economy. During the entire period of the establishment of our friendship, up to 5,000 Vietnamese students lived and studied in Baku. We, also all the time, with special gratitude, commemorate Heydar Aliyev, a big friend of Vietnam, one of a few leaders of the Soviet Union, who had personal dedication to the friendship with Vietnam. Both during his tenure as leader of Azerbaijan and then the member of the politburo of USSR, first deputy prime-minister of USSR and head of commission for Vietnam, he always paid utmost importance to relations with your beautiful country. The only official visit in October-November, 1983 of a Soviet government delegation headed by Heydar Aliyev didnt last for two or three days as planned initially, but for more than a week after his personal corrections and intervention to the schedule. He wanted to personally visit and see the regions, especially where the infrastructure and construction projects had been implemented. He wanted to see Soviet specialists on the site, to talk with them, to learn about any difficulties and shortcoming in order to facilitate the process, especially to request them to accomplish the projects as soon as possible. One of such memorable meetings had taken place in Vung Tau, where he visited to check the works over construction of oil and gas industry of Vietnam and where majority of Soviet specialists were Azerbaijanis with then first head of VietSovPetro Jalal Mamedov. Heydar Aliyev, in Azerbaijani language, requested all of them to work for their own Motherland. By the initiative of our Embassy last year, we started to research the archive materials regarding the visits of our national leaders and other aspects of their activities aimed at establishing and strengthening our friendship. Our leaders played a historic role in establishing and strengthening our friendship. Documents say, that during the meeting with Soviet oil specialists and engineers - when Heydar Aliyev learned from them that first oil from offshore fields is planned to operate at beginning of 90s, after talking with Baku specialists and Azerbaijan oil company and then bringing more oil engineers from Baku and offshore drilling equipment, first oil from White Tiger oilfield was received nearly after one year. Also, based on archive documents, during the visit to Baku, President Ho Chi Minh expressed the word Brotherhood while touching our relations. The Azerbaijani Embassy in Vietnam and the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam organized the conference 'Heydar Aliyev: Historic mission to build Azerbaijan Vietnam friendship' (Photo: baophapluat.vn) Reporter: In recent times, the trade, economic and investment cooperation between Vietnam and Azerbaijan has developed dynamically but is still not commensurate with the potential of the two countries. In the coming time, what do we need to do to continue to promote this potential? Azerbaijani Ambassador Shovgi Kamal Oglu Mehdizade: As it was correctly noted, while trade turnover between our countries shows positive dynamics, potential for mutually beneficial economic cooperation is much higher. Both countries' economies have shown significant achievements, Vietnam is one of the rapidly developing countries in the South-East Asia region, Azerbaijan is a leading country in socio-economic development in the South Caucasus region, being initiator and active participant of many important international projects. Our oil companies continue a glorious and historic tradition of friendship in this field nowadays. It's noteworthy to say that in 2023, we inaugurated the first branch of Vietnam-Azerbaijan Friendship Association in Vietsovpetro company, Vung Tau. In addition, there are ample opportunities in investment agriculture and tourism, green economy and e-commerce could be promising too. Azerbaijan's location on the historical Silk Road speaks of the country's long traditions in the field of logistics. Here Azerbaijan acts not only as a transit country, but also as an initiator and participant of the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars (BTK) railway and the North-South international transport corridor. The current geopolitical situation in the region has significantly increased the importance of the Middle Corridor (Trans-Caspian International Transport Route). The construction of the new Baku International Sea Trade Port, the funds allocated for the diversification of the railway infrastructure and the construction and reconstruction of international highways show that Azerbaijan is taking consistent steps towards becoming a transport hub. Azerbaijan has one of the largest civil air cargo fleets in the region. To establish cargo flights between Azerbaijan and Vietnam will give significant impetus to developing trade relations between two countries. From above-mentioned we can conclude that logistic and international transportation could be areas of mutual benefit, the route via Azerbaijan will be the shortest way for Vietnams products to Europe, Vietnam could help Azerbaijan to enter the markets of Southeast Asia. However, at the current stage, it is necessary to revive all existing mechanisms, such as the Azerbaijan-Vietnam Intergovernmental Commission on economic, trade, scientific and technical cooperation, as well as the Business Forum, which was last held in 2018 in Baku. The next meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission will identify areas of mutual interest, develop concrete steps and an action plan. At the same time, we need to look for new platforms. For example, in May last year, on the initiative of the Embassy and at the organization of the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the first business forum was held between women entrepreneurs of two countries. I tried to be short, as much as possible, since there are many promising industries for cooperation. All these measures will help to tackle untapped potential of our bilateral relations. Reporter: As a diplomatic "bridge" in Vietnam - Azerbaijan relations, in 2024, what contributions and recommendations will you continue to make to further promote relations between the two countries? Azerbaijani Ambassador Shovgi Kamal Oglu Mehdizade: 2024 marks the 65th anniversary of our friendship, and all our endeavors will be tied to commemoration of the historic visit of President Ho Chi Minh to Azerbaijan. We have to raise the awareness of our young generations of what had been done for us by our national leaders. Number of events will be held in Azerbaijan and Viet Nam. The year started with Tet holiday celebrations with children of Ha Giang, in Phieng Sui primary school, constructed several years ago with support of Heydar Aliyev Foundation. We meet with children of school periodically for spending together our holiday times. Then we will continue with a demonstration in Baku of the popular Vietnamese movie film Legend makers dedicated to the heroism of the Vietnamese army during the liberation of the country from the enemy. Another important project is related to commemoration of the 65th anniversary of the activity of prominent and famous Azerbaijani and Soviet filmmaker, Peoples artist of USSR Ajdar Ibrahimov in Vietnam. He moved to Vietnam in 1959 by the invitation of President Ho Chi Minh and mainly contributed to the establishment of the cinema school in Vietnam, made 3 movies and wrote 3 books dedicated to Vietnam. After 3 years of his dedication to Vietnam, he was titled by the President very high government awards. Thus, spheres of culture and tourism have utmost importance for us. Last December, Vietnamese Suite, created by the famous Azerbaijani composer Gara Garaev in 1955 for the first Soviet documentary film Viet Nam, premiered at the Vietnam National Academy of Music. It was a really historic and heart touching event, impossible to listen and watch without tears in eyes. This year we are going to organize the premiere of this magnificent work in Baku. Work is underway on cooperation in the field of music, cinematography and literature. Cooperation in the field of tourism and gastronomy can be another interesting and successful one. It is natural that our capitals have taken a prestigious place in the ranking Best Food Destinations in the World 2024, of which Hanoi deserved the top place amongst 30 world cities. As long as we do not have the Embassy of Vietnam in Baku, periodically holding events in Baku as well. We promote the culinary culture of Azerbaijan and Vietnam in both countries, our Embassy, together with Vietnamese partners, held barbecue competitions among students, actively participated in fairs and festivals, and even organized a Day of Vietnam in Baku in July, 2023. People in both countries have shown great interest in each other's culture and national cuisine. Therefore, the Embassy is doing its best to be a diplomatic "bridge" in Vietnam - Azerbaijan relations in all spheres. Azerbaijani Ambassador Shovgi Mehdizade (second from left) at the festival "Vietnam Day - history of friendship". (Photo: Embassy of Azerbaijan in Hanoi) Reporter: How do you evaluate the importance of strengthening communications on the traditional friendly relationship between the two countries, especially the young generation? Azerbaijani Ambassador Shovgi Kamal Oglu Mehdizade: One of the priorities of our diplomatic mission is to transfer the spirit of friendship between our peoples to the younger generation. This process is being headed by our political parties, strong cooperation between them created strong fundamentals for all our successful efforts. Last November, an official visit of an important Azerbaijani delegation to Vietnam took place under the leadership of the Deputy Chairman of the New Party of Azerbaijan. And it is no coincidence that the chairman of the youth wing of the Party was in the delegation. The future development of relations between our countries depends on the younger generation, our task is to convey to them the friendly relations established by our leaders, then strengthened by the mutual visits of our presidents in 2014 and 2015. That is why, at all meetings with the Vietnam-Azerbaijan Friendship Association, the prospects of creating a youth wing of this structure in other cities and regions and attracting young people to its ranks are discussed. We are also discussing the exchange of delegations between young scientists, businessmen and parliamentarians. Last year, our embassy organized a chess tournament between the chess federations of the two countries, and this tradition will continue. Among all these activities, for our opinion, utmost importance should be given to the sphere of education via revitalization of long-run educational projects. This is only a small part of our plans. All of the above shows how much importance we attach to the establishment of friendly relations in all spheres, especially among young people. Reporter: After more than one year serving as Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Vietnam, what are your impressions of the development of the country and people of Vietnam? On the occasion of the Lunar New Year of the Dragon, what message do you want to send to readers of the Communist Party of Vietnam Online Newspaper? Azerbaijani Ambassador Shovgi Kamal Oglu Mehdizade: First of all, let me express my sincere wishes of Happy New Year to Vietnamese people! We wish this year would be most successful and full of new important achievements. I am confident among those important achievements we will have many related to our bilateral relations, strengthening our historic friendship. When we started our friendship, Vietnam had been struggling for liberation of the country and the Vietnamese nation was faced with one of the most important challenges in its history. Today Vietnam is one of the strongest and most dynamically developing countries in the world and has good relations with all countries. We are very proud of our friends, we are also very proud that our nation also somehow contributed to this process. We are also proud of the fact that our National Leaders played a historical role in this process, they founded our friendship and blessed it by their important mission. Azerbaijan highly values and attaches priority importance to its relations with Vietnam, considering Vietnam to be one of the most important partners in the Asia-Pacific region. Vietnam is said to be a global success story, and economic growth over the past decade has been one of the highest in the world. Having been in the country for more than a year, it is obvious to me that these successes are the result of the tireless efforts of the Party, government and state, as well as the entire Vietnamese people. Apart from its economic achievements, Vietnam has also achieved commendable results in socio-cultural development, and living standards are improving year by year. From the very beginning of my arrival, I was surrounded by the attention and support of the Association's members, graduates of Azerbaijani universities. Their warm memories of student years, feedback about my country and people, as well as the sincere friendship carried through the years, deeply touched me. I am grateful for my all Vietnamese friends for keeping in heart such warmness towards my country. It is a great honor and pleasure for me once again to congratulate all readers and employees of the Communist Party of Vietnam Online Newspaper on the upcoming Lunar New Year. Despite the fact that I only spent Lunar New Year in Hanoi once, this holiday has already become my own. It reminds me of our favorite traditional and ancient holiday. In Azerbaijan, in addition to the official calendar year, on March 20-21, the day of the vernal equinox, the traditional New Year holiday is Novruz. Both of these holidays are united by universal values, such as family values, respect for elders, and custody of the younger, hospitality, national cuisine, charity and many other good and bright traditions. Starting this Year of the Dragon, which symbolizes power, growth and abundance, I wish Vietnam further success and achievements in all areas, as well as good health and happiness to its people. Reporter: Thank you very much! Cameroon Rebels Abduct Government Officials in Fresh Wave of Attacks By Moki Edwin Kindzeka February 08, 2024 Cameroon separatist fighters Wednesday claimed responsibility for the killing of four government workers, including a policeman abducted Tuesday in the country's restive English-speaking North-West region. Government officials say two of the hostages, including a government official the military freed, are responding to treatment in a hospital. The abduction and killing followed renewed separatist attacks that have claimed several dozen civilians within two weeks. Cameroon on Wednesday said one of its officials who had been abducted Tuesday evening in the restive English-speaking North-West region bordering Nigeria has been freed by government troops. Nicholas Nkongho Manchang, the divisional officer for the region's Bamenda Second District was kidnapped at gunpoint with five others, including a policeman, on their way to an official ceremony in Nkambe town, the government said. Deben Tchoffo, governor of the North-West region, told a crowd in Nkambe Wednesday that Manchang and another captive were freed after a swift military operation. "The head of state [president Paul Biya] instructed the security services to set free the hostages," Tchoffo said. "Four hours later, the said administrative authority was freed thanks to the bravery of our military as well as the bravery of the abducted victims. Authorities, living forces (should) continue providing the military with all information to free the hostages that are not yet released." Tchoffo said the divisional officer known locally as the D.O and the other freed captive are responding to treatment in a hospital in Bamenda, where they were rushed to by government troops. Christopher Achobang is the spokesperson for the Ambazonia Governing Council, fighting for independence for Cameroon's English-speaking regions from the French majority country. Achobang said Manchang saved his life by escaping. "The D.O staged an escape because he fell into a ravine and the fighters were not so ready to get into the ravine to rescue him so they left him there wounded and dying," Achobang said. "He escaped and walked for a long distance where the Cameroon military then found him and took him to a helicopter which evacuated the D.O to Bamenda." Achobang said separatist fighters should have killed the D.O if he did escape. English speaking separatists say they consider divisional officers, who are heads of districts, to be government troops because they undergo military training and as such constitute a legitimate target to fighters. But Cameroon government officials say divisional officers are civil administrators who represent the Yaounde central government and work for the development of their districts. Government troops say Manchang drove past the military-led convoy of government officials travelling to Nkambe and fell into an ambush mounted by fighters. Manchang has not explained why he left the convoy. Separatists say after Manchang escaped, four companions, including a police officer were killed. The Ambazonia Governing Council said that separatist forces killed the captives to send a message to government troops that claims that separatists fighting for an independent English-speaking have been defeated are unfounded. The government and military have not commented on the alleged killing of the four captives but on Wednesday night separatists shared pictures of four dead bodies on social media including Facebook and WhatsApp. VOA could not independently verify the authenticity of the pictures. Civilians, however, say the pictures appear to be those of the abducted government workers. Cameroon has within the past two weeks reported that separatists killed several dozen people in northwestern towns including Bamenda, Kumbo and Ndop. The government says at least eleven separatists were killed in military raids in Kumbo and Oku, both northwestern towns. Separatists acknowledge their fighters were killed and say several governments troops also died in fighting. Edward Nfor is a member of the Cameroon Civil Society Group and a road contractor working in the Northwest region. He says the current wave of abductions and killings is either unreported or underreported by local media that fear persecution from rebels and the Cameroon government. "Killings are on the rise, kidnapping is on the rise. If heavily guarded government officials are kidnapped, then what about the ordinary civilian. People are moving but they can't move freely," Nfor said. "These boys [separatist fighters] will go out to the village[es]. get out people and say that they are supporting the military and execute them in public. Let the government try to do something and get this thing [crisis] to an end." Nfor said several dozen people have either been abducted or killed since fresh attacks began in January. Separatists on social media say they will not spare anyone who reports fighters hiding in towns and villages to government troops. The separatist conflict broke out in 2016 when Anglophone Cameroonians protested discrimination by the Francophone majority. The United Nations says more than 6,000 people have been killed and the unrest has deprived 600,000 children of education. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address EU's Dilemma: Dealing With Hungary's Viktor Orban By Lisa Bryant February 08, 2024 Hungary's prime minister, Viktor Orban, has long been a thorn in the European Union's side, his many critics say, with attacks on press freedom, judicial independence, immigration and the LBGTQ community among others flouting the EU's rule of law and democratic values. Orban has a friendly relationship with Russian and Chinese leaders even as ties between Brussels and Moscow are in a deep freeze, and those with China are tense. Time and again, Hungary's 60-year leader has obstructed or watered down a raft of EU sanctions against Russia, along with the bloc's support for Ukraine. But last week, Orban backed down, voting in favor of a $54 billion aid package for Ukraine, after what was reportedly extensive pressure and lobbying by the EU's other 26 members. Still uncertain is whether the rare victory was a one-off, or will embolden the bloc's leaders to keep their black sheep counterpart in line. Analysts say a tough approach is needed, as the EU faces new threats ahead of European Parliament and U.S. elections this year. "I fear the EU member states drew the wrong lesson from this case," said Daniel Hegedus, senior fellow for the German Marshall Fund policy institute, referring to the bloc's win on Ukraine aid. "The widespread interpretation within EU capitals would be that at the end of the day Orban gives in, that it's possible to forge a compromise with the Hungarian government." Rather than negotiating with Orban to reach "bad compromises," Hegedus added, "the message should be clear [that] he's just one step away from the red line. And if he crosses it, there will be far-reaching consequences." Right now, Hungary's leader shows few signs of marching in lockstep with his mainstream EU counterparts. On Monday, his right-wing Fidesz party boycotted a Hungarian parliamentary session called to ratify EU member Sweden's NATO bid. On Wednesday, the European Commission, the EU's executive arm, announced it was beginning legal action against Hungary over new "sovereignty" legislation that critics see as a threat to political opponents and others and which Brussels says violates the bloc's democratic principles. Over the years, the EU has fined and withheld funds from Hungary over similar concerns, with mixed success. Critics say Orban has been adept in securing concessions from the EU, in what the bluntest describe as blackmail. Those talents have helped keep Hungary's prime minister popular at home. Meanwhile, EU membership allows the small, central European country to hit well above its political weight, striking investment deals with major powers like China. Isolated - for now Yet today, Orban is more isolated than ever within the bloc, many say. His ideological ally, Poland's populist and conservative Law and Justice party, lost October elections to a pro-EU opposition party. Unlike Orban, however, Law and Justice was staunchly anti-Russia. Two other EU nationalist leaders Italy's prime minister, Giorgia Meloni, and Slovakia's prime minister, Robert Fico both voted in favor of the Ukraine aid package last week. "Fico is not a follower of Orban when it comes to, for example, foreign policy," says Zsuzsanna Vegh, a central Europe analyst at the European Council on Foreign Relations research group, referring to the Slovak prime minister who has been seen as pro-Russian. "He has other considerations." For her part, Meloni strongly supports both Ukraine and NATO. Vegh and other analysts believe Hungary's leader is looking ahead setting his sights on European Union parliamentary elections in June, and a U.S. presidential vote in November, when allies could come into power. Polls suggest right-wing, populist parties in Germany, France and elsewhere could score strongly in the EU legislative vote, which could influence the bloc's foreign policy, including on Russia. "Obviously, the new European Parliament will be less left-leaning and liberal minded, less progressive," the German Marshall Fund's Hegedus said. "The nationalist conservative forces will have a much larger representation." The European Commission is also set for renewal. The new right-wing governments in Europe able to pick European commissioners will help shape its makeup. Orban also hopes former President Donald Trump, a NATO skeptic, will score a second term in office, many say. "Prime Minister Orban can allow himself to play the long game," Hegedus said. "And sit out uncomfortable periods, waiting for the better times when allies are coming into power in the European parliament and the United States when the environment will be much more favorable for him." Tougher response needed Against this backdrop, he and others believe, mainstream Europe needs to toughen its response. "None of us really knows why Orban is being such a disruptive, anti-EU, anti-Ukraine, anti-democratic force inside the EU," said Judy Dempsey, senior fellow at Carnegie Europe. "It's puzzling. But what's also puzzling is why [member states] didn't take on these questions earlier on." "There was a lack of strategy, a lack of courage," she added, "and just a lack of consensus to say to a member state, 'Sign up to our values and democratic institutions take them or leave them.'" Beyond withholding funds, the EU has a last resort "nuclear option" that suspends voting rights of a member state, but only through a unanimous vote. "It would be a very messy process, we know that Slovakia would block it," fearing it could be vulnerable as well, said analyst Vegh. "But there's a growing realization the situation is not sustainable." She believes the EU should stay tough with Hungary, as it was last week on Ukraine aid, and consider ways to shift to majority rather than unanimous voting on foreign policy matters. But the only way to really handle Orban, she believes, is through the ballot box. "Ultimately, it's up to Hungarians to change their government," Vegh said. "As long as Orban is in power, the EU can expect the behavior he's displayed for over a decade." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Press Briefing by Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre and NSC Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby, February 8, 2024 February 08, 2024 1:36 P.M. EST MS. JEAN-PIERRE: It smells like a chimney a fireplace. Good afternoon, everybody. Q Hello. MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I just have really one quick thing at the top and then we'll get going with all of your questions. So, as you all know, this afternoon, the President looks forward to seeing Leader Jeffries, Chair Aguilar, and other top leaders and members of the House Democratic Caucus. You can expect to hear the President talk about our shared focus on delivering important progress for the American people, from rebuilding America with record jobs, small businesses, economic growth, and rising wages; to protecting and expanding access to healthcare and taking on Big Pharma; to taking historic action to combat climate change, gun violence, and efforts to roll back our fundamental freedoms. And that's and that's in stark contrast to what House Republicans are focused on. Right now, they're sowing chaos, undercutting our national security, and playing political games. As the President said earlier this week, Republicans have to decide: Who do they serve? The President and House Republicans [Democrats] know who they who they work for that's we are aware, the President is very aware, House Repub- House Democrats are very aware and that is the American people. With that, we have the Admiral back in the briefing room, who is going to give us an update on the Middle East and take your questions. Here you go, Admiral. Thank you. MR. KIRBY: Actually, I don't have an opening statement. I'll save you that. So, we'll just go right to questions. MS. JEAN-PIERRE: All right. Here we go. MR. KIRBY: Sorry sorry to bring you back up. (Laughter.) Q That was very MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I actually knew that, and I forgot. MR. KIRBY: But you bounded very quickly. MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I know. Limber. Q Thanks, Admiral. Can you talk about whether the administration has a reaction to Prime Minister Netanyahu's plans to deploy the Israeli military into Rafah? And is the administration sending any warnings to the Israeli government against doing so, considering the humanitarian catastrophe that the U.N. said that this would cause? MR. KIRBY: Well, with the caveat that I always use that we'll let the Israelis speak to their military operations and certainly any potential future military operations, I can tell you, we've seen no plans that would convince us that they are about to or imminently going to conduct any kind of major operations in Rafah. I think you all know more than a million Palestinians are are sheltering in and around Rafah. That's where they were told to go. There's a lot of displaced people there. And the Israeli military has a special obligation as they conduct operations there or anywhere else to make sure that they're factoring in protection for for innocent civilian life, particularly, you know, the civilians that were were pushed into southern Gaza by operations further north Khan Yunis and North Gaza. I could tell you that absent any full consideration of protecting civilians at that scale in Gaza military operations right now would be a disaster for those people, and it's not something that we would support. MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Go ahead, Steve. Q Oh MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Oh. Go ahead. Q Sorry, I have a follow-up. MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Go ahead. Go ahead. Sorry. Q The Israeli military has also detained three U.S. citizens during Secretary Blinken's current trip: one woman in the West Bank on Monday and two brothers in Gaza this morning. And that's according to the Israeli military and family members of those people. Does the White House have a reaction to that? MR. KIRBY: Just processing this information, and I I so we don't we need to we want to know more about the reasons here. And I'm I'm confident that our Ambassador, Jack Lew, is looking into this. Obviously, this is the kind of thing we take very seriously, so we'll be talking to our Israeli counterparts and trying to get information, more context here about what happened. MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Go ahead, Steve. Q So so, John, has Israel factored in the protection of civilians in Rafah MR. KIRBY: Well, again, when we Q as far as you know? MR. KIRBY: Steve, we haven't seen we have we've seen no indications that there's such that there's operational planning or at least planning at the level of specificity that tells us an operation a major ground operation around Rafah is imminent. So, we just haven't seen the plan for it. Any such plan when you have more than a million folks that have been displaced down there, any such plan would have to factor in a responsible military plan would factor in making sure that you can protect those civilians. And as I said, given the circumstances and conditions there that we see right now, we think a military operation at this time would be a disaster for those people. Q And then, to follow up, Prime Minister Netanyahu rejected the Hamas proposal on hostages. What what happens now? MR. KIRBY: Look, nothing is nothing is done until everything is done, and negotiations are ongoing. And as you heard Secretary Blinken say just yesterday in the region that we're optimistic that we will still be able to get a deal in place that will allow for an extended pause, allow for more aid to get in, and allow for a maximum number of hostages to get out. But we're still working at this literally around the clock. And the Sec- we're we're optimistic we can get there. MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Karen. Q On that, just to follow up, the President had said the other day that the response from Hamas seems to be a little "over the top." Can you explain a little more about what part of that he was talking about? MR. KIRBY: I'd really rather not get into the details and the parameters of the deal that's being discussed. As as you know, there was a an Israeli counterproposal put forward, and then Hamas responded. As I understand it, the Israelis are looking at the Hamas response right now and working their way through that. So, the last thing I'm going to do is get ahead of them and their decision-making. But as again, as the President said, as Secretary Blinken said, there were parts of the Hamas response which were very positive and there were parts, which, obviously, we believe and our Israeli counterparts believe need a little bit more work. Q And there was the U.S. strike in Baghdad that killed a senior leader of Kata'ib Hezbollah, which the U.S. has said is responsible behind the str- the drone attack in Jordan. Has the U.S. concluded the retaliatory strikes for the attack in Jordan, or should we expect more still to come? MR. KIRBY: You'll have to wait and see. MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Weijia. Q Thank you, Karine. John, I know you said that you haven't seen any formal plan for the IDF to to go into Rafah, but MR. KIRBY: I said we're not aware of any formal planning to do that. Q Okay. Has the U.S. communicated everything that you just said about protecting civilians to Israel? MR. KIRBY: Secretary Blinken, in his meetings with the Israeli leaders and the Prime Minister and the War Cabinet, made clear our concerns. Q And did that come with any conditions with supporting Israel and offering support, resources in the future if that protection did not happen? MR. KIRBY: He made clear our concerns, and I'm cer- I'm certainly reiterating them here from the podium. But we're going to continue to make sure that Israel has what it needs to defend itself against Hamas. A big part of the supplemental request that that we submitted back in October and which I know is still being debated on Capitol Hill has money in there specifically for Israel's security. Q Thanks. Q Admiral, talking about the retaliatory strikes in Iraq, what's the U.S. response to the outrage from some Iraqi officials that called it a "clear-cut assassination operation" that disregarded lives of civilians? And what's the U.S. response to any political pressure in Iraq to expel the U.S. forces there? MR. KIRBY: I'll let Mr. al-Sudani talk about whatever political pressure he's under. I would tell you that we fully respect Iraq's sovereignty, and our troops are there at the invitation of the Iraqi government to continue to advise and assist their military, their security forces as they continue to battle against a still-viable ISIS threat. We're having discussions with the Iraqis, I think as you know, about what that posture looks like going forward and and the validity of that mission going forward. And those discussions are ongoing. But, look, if there were no attacks on our troops who are there at the invitation of the Iraqi government there would be no need for retaliatory strikes. Q Given those discussions how difficult are those discussions given Iraq's relationship with Iran? MR. KIRBY: We have a we believe we have a good relationship with the Iraqi government. I'll let the Iraqis speak for their other bilateral relationships or their relationships in the region. We have a good relationship with the Iraqi government. We still believe that the advise-and-assist mission is is something worth talking about and and exploring the future of it. And I'll leave it at that. Q Really quick a quick question on Ukraine. Ukraine replaced a top military general. What's the U.S. response to that? And is that an indication that the war isn't going as Ukraine and the U.S. would hope? MR. KIRBY: President Zelenskyy is the commander-in-chief of his armed forces; he gets to decide who his leadership is going to be in the military. That's what civilian control is all about. We know that, and we'll work with whoever he has in charge of his military. We'll continue to work with our Ukrainian counterparts. MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Go ahead. Q Thanks, Karine. Thanks, Admiral. Staying on that subject. I mean, do you have any concerns about instability in Ukraine as a result of this change at the top of the military? And also, can I ask: Was it was that decision discussed with with yourselves and the White House before MR. KIRBY: Discussed? Q Well, was there any discussion between President Zelenskyy and yourselves or with President Biden about the need for a change at the top of the Ukrainian military (inaudible) MR. KIRBY: We're not concerned about Ukrainian stability as a result of this. He's the commander-in-chief, and civilian control of the military means you get to decide who your military leadership is. And he's he's doing that in a time of war. He should speak to that decision. I'm not aware of any discussions at high levels between U.S. and Ukrainian officials about the that decision in a pre-decisional way. We talk to our Ukrainian counterparts all the time. But if the question is proposing that we were somehow abil- we had some sort of right to give it a thumbs up or a thumbs down, that's not true. This is President Zelenskyy's decision. So, there was there was no requirement for the Ukrainian government to to run it by us. MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Go ahead, Nadia. Q Thank you, Karine. So, John, if the Prime Minister of Israel, Mr. Netanyahu, said clearly yesterday that he ordered his troops to be ready to enter Rafah, why are you not taking his word at face value? Number one. And, second, there was an internal report military report says that a fifth of the hostages in Gaza are dead already. I know you blame Hamas for taking them in the first place, but do you share do you think that Netanyahu shares the blame too in obstructing every deal that could have been possible, jeopardizing the life of hostages, including American hostages? MR. KIRBY: On your first question, as I said, we we're just not aware of any specific planning for an imminent operation in Rafah, and I've already expressed our concerns about what that could look like for the Palestinian people that are there should it happen right now and should it happen with no due consideration for their safety. On your second question, you're right; Hamas took the hostages. Hamas is responsible for for their abduction. Hamas is responsible for any harm that comes to them, period. That's the end of it. And there was a deal in place that did manage to get a good number dozens of hostages out over the course of a week. And since that ended, Nadia, we have been working almost nonstop to try to get another one in place. And those discussions are ongoing as we speak for an extended pause that will be longer than the week that we saw. And we're hopeful that we're optimistic that we'll be able to get there. Q I just want to clear something about you said about the two brothers who two American Palestinians who have been taken by the Israeli army. What exactly do you seek? And you said you wanted to MR. KIRBY: We're just processing Q know information? MR. KIRBY: We're just processing these reports right now. We're obviously talking to our Israeli counterparts about this to get more information about what happened here. I mean, we take this seriously, as you would expect we would. Q And the American from Louisiana who also MR. KIRBY: Same. Same. Q in the West Bank who has been arrested? MR. KIRBY: Same same thing. Q So, will you update us on information about that? MR. KIRBY: If I have something I can share, I will. But there's also privacy considerations we have to factor in too. MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Go ahead, Michael. Q John, if could I just parse a little bit more the Rafah statements? On the one hand, you said a any military operation in a place like Rafah would have to take into consideration protection of civilians. And then you also said that any military operation in Rafah would be a disaster. So, is does is it the U.S.'s position that there could be a military operation in Rafah that could be designed in a way that would be protective enough of of civilians? Or is the message any military operation would be impossible any military any military operation would be indefensible given the given the situation in Rafah now? MR. KIRBY: Again, we haven't seen I haven't seen a Q Right, I understand you haven't seen it MR. KIRBY: plan here. So Q but in terms of what you're MR. KIRBY: So, any any our view is: Any military any major military operation in Rafah at this time, under these circumstances, with more than a million probably more like a million and a half Palestinians who are seeking refuge and have been seeking refuge in Rafah without due consideration for their safety would be a disaster. Q But I guess MR. KIRBY: And we would not support it. Q But I guess my question is: Can you see could you see a path towards due consideration for their safety that could make a military operation in Rafah now, like, actually work? MR. KIRBY: That's a speculative one. I'm not going to go down a hypothetical here, Michael, in terms of what it could look like. Again, we haven't we have no indications that there is such planning for a major operation in Rafah. I've just said that right now, without proper planning and consideration of the the innocent lives that are there more than a million of folks that are in Rafah a military operation right now, without any kind of due consideration for that, would be a disaster for those people, and we would not support it. Q Do you have any concern that Tucker Carlson's interview with Vladimir Putin could further erode support for Ukraine aid in the United States? MR. KIRBY: I we're convinced that there is strong bipartisan support on Capitol Hill for supporting Ukraine. And we know there's efforts now to bring something up onto the Senate floor for a vote that would have Ukraine, Israel, Indo-Pacific, and humanitarian assistance supplemental funding in it and without the border. We'll let the folk we'll let senators work that out. The President believes that support for Ukraine is critical particularly right now, as Russia continues to try to hit their defense industrial base, continue to hit their units on that battlefront from from east to south. It it's vital. And he's confident that and he and based on the meetings he's had with with leaders on Capitol Hill and the discussions he's had, certainly over recent weeks, that, again, the leadership even on the House side, the leadership is solidly in support of supporting Ukraine. Now, whether they're going to how they're going to be affected or impacted by a television interview, I couldn't begin to to guess. Q I guess I'm asking beyond just Congress. Among the American people, many of whom, you know, watch Tucker Carlson's show and are inclined already to be skeptical of American support for Ukraine, would hearing directly from Putin potentially erode that further not just in the halls of Congress but among the people? MR. KIRBY: I think the American people know well who is at fault here. And I think they know that there was no ground whatsoever for the invasion on February 22nd, two years ago. The he he invaded a neighboring country with- without provocation. Ukraine wasn't a threat to anybody, and the American people understand that. And the American people understand what Ukraine is fighting for. And all they're asking for is our help. They're not asking for American boots on the ground. Again, I don't think the American people are going to be swayed by one single interview. And I think anybody that watches that interview I again, I haven't seen whatever whatever is said need to need to make sure you're you're remember, you're listening to Vladimir Putin. And you shouldn't take at face value anything he has to say. MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Just a couple more. Go ahead. Q Admiral, can you give us a little more sense of what the President plans to speak about with Chancellor Scholz tomorrow? The Chancellor has said, you know, he hopes the West sends a clear signal to Vladimir Putin. And it seems like this week gives anything but that. MR. KIRBY: They're going to talk about cert- certainly the situation in Ukraine. No question about it. I think both leaders will reaffirm their strong support for Ukraine and finding a way to continue to help Ukraine. The Chancellor said something like that before he left Berlin, actually about finding ways for Europe to also do more to support Ukraine. I think they're going to talk about the Middle East as well and what the situation in Gaza looks like; what what together we can do as as strong allies to continue to make sure that Israel has what it needs to defend itself; that humanitarian assistance gets in to the people that need it. And I would be surprised if they didn't also talk about the threats in the Red Sea to international shipping. And a lot of that international shipping affects Europe directly. MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Go ahead. Q Great. Thank you. Admiral, as you just mentioned, the foreign aid package it advanced in the Senate just a few moments ago, but it still has a long way before final passage. Some Democrats on the Hill say that they've been asking the White House to consider options to help Ukraine without their help in case that this doesn't pass at all. Is the White House considering any such options to aid Ukraine without the help of Congress? MR. KIRBY: I think I'll leave our conversations with members of Congress to to the to those conversations and not discuss them publicly. The President believes that support for Ukraine is critical, particularly right now. And we'll continue to to work with both sides of the aisle in the Senate to see what we can do to make that happen. Q Is he sending any kind of well, is he going to send any more direct message now as they are taking this up and now that it has advanced? MR. KIRBY: I I'm not I'm not going to again, I'm not going to get ahead of the President's private conversations with members of Congress and leadership on Capitol Hill. He has been in touch with them; he will stay in touch with them. MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Go ahead. Q Thank you, Karine. John, with everything that you said about Rafah, whether an attack is imminent or not, I noticed that what you said was that "we will not support it" and not "we will not accept it." So, I guess my question is: The President has military, financial, and diplomatic leverage on Netanyahu. Why won't he use it? MR. KIRBY: I think it's not true that we haven't tried to help influence the the way the Israelis have been prosecuting operations. That's just not true. We have. We have and they've been receptive to many of our lessons learned and the perspectives we've shared. And, again, what I said was: An operation right now first of all, we don't think it's imminent. We have no indication that one is imminent. Any operation right now, given the, you know, more than a million Palestinians seeking refuge at Ra- Rafah would be a disaster for them. And any operation that wouldn't factor in their safety and their protection an obligation that the Israelis have we would not support. Q And on the Jordan King's visit next week. John, I think you did mention that the funding for UNRWA that has been suspended, that was specifically for Jordan. So, can you give a little bit of a preview of whether that part on UNRWA funding and then also on refugee support for Jordan will that be discussed between the President and the King? MR. KIRBY: I don't know if the specific suspension of funding for UNRWA is going to be a matter of discussion. I mean, it's a it's a closed matter. That that money has been suspended pending the outcome of the investigation, and the Jordanians know that. It was really for it was a limited amount of money for a specific purpose in Jordan: to assist the Palestinians there. But I think, in broad brushstrokes, the King and the President will certainly talk about what Gaza looks like post conflict and how our counterparts and our Arab friends in the region can help build a post-conflict Gaza or help us help us work towards a post-conflict Gaza that, again, meets the aspirations of the Palestinian people and give them a vote and a voice in what that looks like. And it's going to have to start with a revitalized Palestinian Authority. Q And just one last question. You did mention that this is not the end of the negotiation on on the temporary ceasefire and you're optimistic. Does that mean that I mean, can we infer from that that the President believes that Netanyahu's response whether that is his actual position or simply a public stance? MR. KIRBY: I'll let the Prime Minister speak for his comments. We Q What is the President's view? MR. KIRBY: The President believes that that this is this potential deal has real po- has real possibility. And he shares Secretary Blinken's optimism that we're that we can get there. Discussions are active; they're ongoing. It's not like either side just cut everything off. It's still those co- those conversations are still happening. And so, the President is optimistic that we can get there. He believes it's possible. MS. JEAN-PIERRE: All right. We have to take one last one. Go ahead, in the back. (Inaudible.) Q Karine, thank you. Admiral, you said that any responsible military operation would factor in civilians. But 27,000 civilians have been killed in Gaza during the war, many of them children, so would you characterize the current military operation as "responsible?" And the second question is: Benjamin Netanyahu said the idea of sanctioning those in the West Bank who target Palestinians is irresponsible. What would be your reaction be to that? MR. KIRBY: I think our actions speak louder than our words. We've we have im- imposed visa restrictions and we have done and we have executed sanctions on some for the settler violence. And I think our actions speak pretty loudly about what we believe about that. And as for the civilian casualties, as I've said many, many times, I'll say again: The number should be zero. Too many have been killed. Too many have been wounded. And we know that too many have been displaced from their homes. And that's why we're working so hard on this humanitarian pause, getting another extended pause in place, so that the level of violence can come down, so that hostages can get out safely, so that more security I'm sorry, more humanitarian assistance can get in. Again, actions speak louder than words, and I think our actions and our policies that we're that we're pursuing speak pretty pretty loudly about where the President's priorities are. MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Thank you so much, Admiral. MR. KIRBY: Thank you. MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Appreciate it. MR. KIRBY: Thanks, everybody. Q Thanks. MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Thanks, Admiral. Okay. Seung Min. Q All right, thanks, Karine. Two topics. Attorney General Merrick Garland said the special counsel investigation into the President's handling of classified documents is complete. So, can you tell us whether the President was personally briefed on the contents of the report and, if so, when and by whom? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, I I don't have anything for you at this time. I would refer you to the Department of Justice or the White House obviously, the White House Counsel, my colleagues there, for specifics on the question you just asked. I just don't have anything to share at this time. Q Can you I mean, the the White House Counsel hasn't said the office hasn't said those specifics. Is that something you can get back to us with, whether the President was MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I would Q personally briefed? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Honestly, I would you can just reach out directly to them. They have been pretty as you know, my colleagues there have been pretty responsive. So, I would really direct you to them direct- specifically. Q And multiple times this week, the President in his public remarks talked about having conversations in 2021 with European leaders who were deceased at that time. So, can you give us an explanation into why the President was referring to those to those people in those conversations and what exactly happened there? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, I know there has been a lot of focus on this. I want to just step back for a second and just kind of think, really, kind of top level of what the President was talking about when he was having as he tells a story about having these conversations with world leaders, which are obviously important conversations. He was underlying the January 6 events in 2021: what happened; the message that it sent around the globe, around the world to our leaders to world leaders; how dangerous it is; our democracy how important democracy was and or is continues to be, obviously. And he was asked he was asked when he was after he was elected, when he went to the G7, he said and you saw this he it was something that we were saying throughout that trip, "America is back." "America is back." And what what was asked of him was, "For how long?" And that whole story is just to reiterate, to really land, obviously, how important what we saw that event how important it is to continue to fight to our for our democracy, but also, how important how important it is the United States you know, their leadership our leadership here in this in the globe. And so, he never thought this is someone who was a senator. He was a vice president. He has a relationship with some of these world leaders for decades. And he never thought that he would hear that. And so, you hear him say that. You hear him talk about it. He you know, another part of it, too, is how unprecedented how unprecedented that moment was on January 6th when 2,000 mob a 2,000-person mob went to the Capitol because they were lied to about the results of the election, because they wanted to overturn the election. So, just really want to make sure that we get that that we understand why he the reason he was telling that story. And, look you know, look, as it relates to the names and and what he was trying to you know, what he was trying to to say, look, many people elected officials, many people you know, they tend they can they can mis- misspeak sometimes. Right? Q So, he misspoke? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: And, look, I let me give you a couple of examples. You know, on Sunday, Speaker Johnson said "Iran" instead of "Israel." This happens. And Joe Joe is not here. There are many times I call Joe, from USA Today, "Michael." I'm sure he doesn't appreciate that. (Laughter.) Q He doesn't. (Laughter.) MS. JEAN-PIERRE: He doesn't. (Laughter.) I've apologized to him many times. Now I call him "Joe Joe," because the President calls him "Joe Joe." But and also, Sean Hannity himself has said Jason Chaffetz when he meant Matt Gaetz. I mean, it happens. It really happens. Rick Scott even confuses saving say saving Medicare money with cutting Medicaid Medicare, pardon me. And so, this happens. You know, it it is it happens to all of us, and it is common. But I do want to not I do want to make sure we don't forget what the overall arching kind of theme what he is trying to say about about our leadership on the global stage. Go ahead. Q All those people you mentioned, yourself included, are a lot younger than the President. And obviously, as he is heading into the election season, one of the things that people are talking about in polls is a concern about his age. What do you say, then, to Americans who have that concern and they see three times in just a couple days the President getting the name of a leader wrong MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah. Q and referencing somebody who is deceased? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, again, as you just stated in your question to me, I've I just laid out other other leaders in their community or elected officials who have done the same. So, it is not not uncommon. Look, as it relates to as it relates to what the American people feel or what the American people think I want to be really careful, because you did ask me that question in in a context of the election, so I can't really speak to the election any upcoming election. But I can say this: This is a president that has had a a very successful three years when you look at the economy, when you look at climate change, when you look at COVID, all the crises that he had to deal with when he walked into this administration. That was done by someone who has experience, understands relationship on the other side of the of Pennsylvania, understands what it means to bring two sides together to get things done, understands where the people are and Americans Americans are and what they're feeling, and how to deliver. And that's why you see an economy all the data shows and even experts and some of you have written how the ec- the economy has come back, and a lot of that is because of what this president has done. So, look, his leadership, his experience, I believe, we believe speaks for its- for itself. And I think that's what is important. And I and I hope that the American people see that. Q If I can, just on the documents questions, just to try it. MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah. Q The President did say last January that, when it comes to his handling of classified documents, "There is no there there." Is that still the case? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Well, I'm going to I'm not going to get ahead, certainly, of what what is going to come out. I'm just going to be really mindful here. I'm just not going to get into hypo- at this point right now, it would be me making a hypothetical comment because we just don't have anything at this time, obviously. But I'm going to any specifics, any any details, or anything related to that, obviously as it relates to our our comments from here would have to come from the White House Counsel. Q Will he speak on this? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I just don't have anything to share at this time. Go ahead, Kevin. Q When you're in the in meetings with the President, how often does he confuse names like we've seen him do this week? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I have not seen him do that in meetings that I've been in. Q It was a pretty landmark Supreme Court day today. How closely was the President tracking that? Did he watch it on TV? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, I'm going to be really careful. Obviously, it's an ongoing legal case, so I can't comment on ongoing legal case. As it relates to your question about the President, he has been busy all day, obviously, delivering and working on the business for the American people. I just don't have anything on his on his cable-watching schedule today. Go ahead, Steve. Q Not to belabor the point, but how would you describe the President's overall health? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: His overall health? Q Yes. MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I mean, that is I mean, you see him for yourself just like I see him for myself. Is I am not a medical doctor. I cannot comment on his over- overall health. Obviously, you've heard directly from his physician. He has put out he has put out a detailed, detailed memo and document on the on the President's health. You saw him do that last year. He's going to have another another annual physical, which we will be transparent, just like we have been the last two years, and share that with all of you. I it's just not for me to to comment on the President's medical health. Go ahead. Q Thanks, Karine. A couple times in the past few days, the President has said that he does not support "abortion on demand." How does he define "abortion on demand"? And does that mean there are restrictions that he does want to see? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, I mean, the President has always been consistent when it comes to that particular question which is, look, he has been really clear and unequivocal when it comes to supporting, restoring the protections of Roe Roe in federal in federal law. And, look, you know, as you all know, for nearly 50 years, Roe was the constitutional law. It was the law of the land. And it gave the right for for women and their doctors to make decisions about their own healthcare. And that is what we are going to continue to fight for: to make sure that Roe becomes you know, asking Congress to act, make sure it becomes the law of the land. But, look, he believes and he's been unequivocal about it that he supports restoring the protections the protections of Roe into federal law. Q But what what does "abortion on demand" mean to him? Because while Roe was the law of the land, there were restrictions enacted in many states: waiting periods, other things like that. Are are those things he is comfortable with? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: There Q There is a concern, I think, from abortion advocates that using language like "abortion on demand" is repeating a conservative talking point that they view as stigmatizing. MS. JEAN-PIERRE: What I can say is and he has said this multiple times he be- he believes in restoring the protections of Roe, what is in Roe, what has been written in Roe, what has been laid out, the provisions in Roe for almost 50 years before, obviously, it was overturned back in 2022 by the Supreme Court. That's what he believes. And that's what I would point you to. I don't have anything else to add beyond that. Go ahead. Q Thanks, Karine. What is it that the White House hopes that the officials who are meeting with Arab Americans today take away from those meetings in Michigan? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, let me just say a couple things at the top as that this is part of the of the Biden-Harris ongoing outreach to Muslim and Arab Americans communities. So, as you all know and I made this comment last week senior officials traveled to to Michigan, and they are obviously traveling today to hear directly from the community, to hear directly from community leaders on a range of issues that are important to them, obviously, as well and not just them but their families including the conflict that that we're currently sering seeing in Israel and Gaza. This is a private meeting. Want to we want to give them the space to have a meeting that certainly has candor, certainly where both where we can hear directly from them. So, don't want to get too far into what's going to be discussed. But we want to hear directly from them. We want to hear their concerns. We believe it's important for for these leaders to be to be able to speak directly to officials in the White House. As you know, we have been consistent with having outreach to the Arab and Muslim Arab American and Muslim American leaders and communities, obviously. Also the Jewish community as well Jewish American community. That has that has that has been going on for for some time. And so, we are the my colleagues, White House officials are looking forward to this conversation. I just don't I want to be really careful. It's a private conversation. We want to give them the space to have that privacy. Q But you're stressing repeatedly that they want to hear from them. But is anything that would come up in that meeting or any of the other ones going to affect or change U.S. policy? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: You know, I want to be really careful. These meetings folks are going to speak in a in a in you know, in a way that they have the space for it to be open and honest. Th- we want to make sure that there's privacy in these meetings. It is critical. It is crucial for these par- partic- participants to be able to do that, to speak freely. You know, I do want to underscore what you've heard from the President numerous times. Obv- obviously, we mourn the innocent lives that have been taken in this conflict. And we've said that in in Palestinian lives and also in Israel as well. We mourn those lives. But I want to be mindful and careful. I don't want to lay out a specific agenda or what is going to be next steps. Obviously, they're going to have those conversations. Q Well, perhaps more broadly, then, what is the White House's message to Arab Americans who are frustrated with President Biden's Middle East policy and they want to see him break with Netanyahu and declare a ceasefire? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, our message has been always very clear. You know, he is working very hard around the clock. You've heard from the Admiral, you've heard from the President, you've heard from the National Security Advisor very recently Jake Sullivan. He's working very, very hard and his team is, and you saw Secretary Blinken in the region to stop the suffering of innocent Palestinians and who have been caught in the middle of this in the middle of this conflict between Israel and and Hamas. And so, we mourn. We mourn the the innocent lives that have been taken here. And so, what we are trying to do and, again, you heard this recently from from the Secretary and also our National Security Council team is that we are doing everything that we can to to get another humanitarian pause so that we can get these hostages home to their families and their friends; to make sure that some of them are Americans as well; want to get them home and get that much needed needed critical, critical humanitarian aid into Gaza. And that's what we want to see. And that is our message. Go ahead. AIDE: We're going to have to wrap soon. Q Thanks. MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Okay. Q Why did the President himself not meet with Arab and Muslim American leaders in Michigan when he was there last week? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Well, as you know, that is a that was a campaign trip, so I can't speak to what the needs of the campaign were. I'm going to have to obviously refer you back to the campaign in why it was set up in that way. Obviously, it was a very productive productive trip. So, I'm not going to get into the specifics of the last time he was in Michigan. But we have been consistent and have had constant communication with leaders in the community. This is something that we have done throughout since obviously, since this conflict began on October 7th. The President has met with Arab Arab Americans and also Muslim American leaders. And we are going to continue to have that engagement as we're doing today. Q Can you give us some examples of those meetings and that kind of engagement? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I mean, you know of one of them that he has that the President has had, specifically. You know of also the Jewish American meeting that he has had not too long ago. I just don't have anything else to read out to you. But you you are aware that the President has been consistently meeting with them. Q Has the President spoken to families of the Marines that were killed this week in California. MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Obviously, our hearts go out to to the to the just devastating loss of those five Marines and their you know, goes out to our hearts go out to their families and to their friends and the people who love them. I don't have a call to read out from the President. But obviously, they are in our in our in our hearts. Go ahead. Q Thank you, Karine. To follow up on Mary Alice, has the President had more than one meeting with Arab American leaders? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, we don't read out every meeting, obviously. Q You keep referencing the one. MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I know Q So, has it been more than one? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Because that one we did read out, and you all were aware of that. But the President has had and and his White House officials have had regular communication and contact. We just don't read out every conversation, every meeting that the President has. But we we have had regular engagement with Muslim Muslim Americans and also Arab American leaders and, obviously, as well, Jewish le- Jewish American leaders as well. Q Thank you. And on the southern border. Can you talk about what executive actions the administration is considering? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, let me just say this at the top because I think it's really important. And the President, I think, laid this out brilliantly the other day about what what you know, what this what this what this time has all been about, right? We were we made sure the President directed his team and you've heard us say that many times, but it is true for two months, directed his team to have a conversation with Republicans and Democrats on in the Senate to try and come come forward with a with a bipartisan agreement. This agreement, if it had gone into law, would have been the fairest and also and also the toughest agreement to deal with what is happening at the border and also some some immigration issues that we're seeing. And let's not forget, the you know, the immigration system has been broken for some decades now. And congressional Republicans are choosing to put partisan politics. You heard me say at the end of my topper basically was they have to decide: Who do they work for? Who do they work for? As it relates to executive actions, look, no executive action, no matter how aggressive, can deliver the significant policy reforms and additional resources Congress can provide that that Republicans have rejected. In order to actually deal with this, we need them to legislate. We need them to actually take action. So, we are always evaluating our options. But no executive action could actually have done what this bipartisan agreement could have done and would have been able to put into place to deal with the challenges at the border and to actually deal with immigration. Q I'm just asking what those options are, even if they don't have the same impact that legislation obviously would. What else could the President do, given that Congress isn't going to do it? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: No, I understand the question. What I want to say: More broadly, there's not a executive action that actually could have done or implemented in an effective way what that bipartisan agreement could have. Right? That's just that is that is just a fact. There is no executive action that the President can take. Now, we're going to always constantly modify our approach to meet the ever-changing moment. I don't have anything to confirm or preview here at this time. But if you look at the holistic right? agreement, not one action would have done anything to to really make the change that is meaningful change meaningful change that we had needed to see at the border. And if we have anything specific on modifying anything or taking an approach to meet the changes that we're seeing, we certainly will share that o- to you all, but I just don't have any preview. Q Thank you, Karine. AIDE: (Inaudible.) MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Oh, we have to wrap? Go ahead, Gabe. Q To follow up on Weijia what Weijia was saying, is there a plan B now that this has failed? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: We are always going to look at our possible actions always. But I want to be really clear, right? What that what that negotiation legislation would have done, there's no executive action that could have touched what that what that piece of agreement would have been able to do that bipartisan agreement. Q Karine, I take your point. And we're asking you what are the details of that? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I'm just I'm what I'm answering for you is that we are always looking at other ways mod- other ways to modify actions that we've already taken. We're always looking at other approaches to meet the ever-changing ever-changing moment. I just don't have anything to preview for you at this time. Q And we've asked several times before. But given the events of this past week, does the President does the White House now support breaking off Ukraine and Israel funding now that this bill appears to have gone up in flames? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, I think they're still doing -doing their work over at in Congress. So, want to be mindful there. But the President has been very clear how important it is to get this funding to get that national security supplemental done. He has been clear about that since October since October, since he put that forth to Congress. And it is important. You heard the Admiral lay out what's going on in Ukraine and why they need that funding and what they've been fighting for and how important this President continue to show his leadership, how he strengthened NATO, how he's been able to bring more than 50 countries together to make sure that Ukraine has what it needs to fight for their democracy. That is incredibly important. And so, we've talked about Israel and Israel being able to have the defenses that they need to to fight against a terrorist organization. We've been clear about that. So, I'm not going to get ahead of things here. But the President couldn't have not have been clearer on how important this national security supplemental this emergency request that he put forth months ago. And and, you know, it's been said here already at the podium: You know, we believe there's bipartisan support for Ukraine. We do. We believe that still exists. We believe that there are congressional members on both sides of the aisle that wants to get this done. Q And with regards to the Hur excuse me, to the Hur report, I know you said you can't comment because it's not out yet. But today, we learned that the White House chose not to redact anything and not exert executive privilege. Why did the White House not exert MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I would Q executive privilege? MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I would refer you to the White House Counsel my colleagues there at the White House Counsel. We'll see you guys tomorrow. Thank you, everybody. 2:18 P.M. EST NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Yemeni official: All warships will be forced to leave Red Sea Iran Press TV Friday, 09 February 2024 2:10 AM After a successful Yemeni operation forces a British warship to leave the Red Sea, a ranking Yemeni official says all such foreign vessels will eventually be forced to depart the body of water. Mohammed Ali al-Houthi, a member of Yemen's Supreme Political Council, made the remarks on Thursday. A day earlier, British media reports revealed that the country's Royal Navy had been forced to pull a warship, named as HMS Diamond, out of the Red Sea after coming under three bouts of attacks with ballistic missiles fired from Yemen. The reports did not specify the reasons for the summoning, only stating that HMS Richmond had "temporarily" taken over in the Red Sea. They said HMS Diamond would be rearmed before heading back into action in the Red Sea. But footage released by Yemeni media purportedly showed a missile hitting HMS Diamond in the Red Sea, without specifying when the strike took place. "Just as the British warship has left the region for overhaul, the other warships will likewise [be forced to] leave the region," al-Houthi said. "All [foreign] warships must leave the Red Sea, stop their attacks on Yemen, and end their blockade of the country," he added. Yemen has been conducting missile and drone operations against Israeli vessels, those heading for the occupied territories' ports, and the British and American warships that have been dispatched to the Red Sea to confront the Yemeni strikes. The strikes have been seeking to pressure the Israeli regime into stopping an October 7, 2023-present Washington- and London-backed war against the coastal sliver. More than 27,840 Palestinians, mostly women, children, and adolescents, have died in the genocidal war so far. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russo-Ukraine War - 08 February 2024 - Day 714 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 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 Avdiivka remains a primary focus of Russian operations. Russia continues attacks in the south-eastern city limits, with urban street-to-street combat taking place. Over the past two weeks, Russian forces have likely rotated in additional forces to the Avdiivka sector, increasing the pressure on Ukrainian positions around the city. Ukraine continues to conduct counterattacks to ensure the main supply route remains in use. Over the past four weeks, approximately 600 guided munitions have been launched against Ukrainian positions in Avdiivka from tactical aircraft. Russian sorties increased guided aerial munitions strikes from 30 to 50 per day on 5 February 2024, an increase of 66 per cent over the last two weeks. However, Russian fighters are forced to launch munitions at range, degrading their accuracy due to the continued threat of Ukrainian air defence. Russia is almost certain to continue offensive pressure in this area over the next several weeks, heavily leveraging tactical air power to support its effort. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that during the day of February 8, there were 52x combat engagements. Russian forces launched a total of 13x missile and 54x air strikes, carried out 37x MLRS attacks at the positions of Ukrainian troops and various settlements. Unfortunately, Russian attacks resulted in dead and wounded civilians, including children. Residential private and apartment buildings, and other civilian infrastructure in were destroyed and damaged. Volyn and Polissya axes: no significant changes. No signs of formation of an offensive group. Certain units of the armed forces of Belarus continue their missions in the areas bordering Ukraine. Sivershchyna and Slobozhanshchyna axes: Russia maintains its military presence in the areas of russia bordering Ukraine. Russia continues its sabotage and reconnaissance activities, shelling Ukrainian settlements from the territory of Russia and increases the density of minefields along the state border of Ukraine. Russian forces launched an air strike in the vicinity of Starytsya (Kharkiv oblast). More than 20x settlements came under Russian artillery and mortar fire, including Karpovychi (Chernihiv oblast), Stara Huta, Bachivs'k, Volfyne, Kindrativka, Myropillya, Hrabovs'ke, Popivka (Sumy oblast), Udy, Strilecha, Vovchans'k, Budarky, Chuhunivka, Topoli (Kharkiv oblast). Kup'yans'k axis: the Ukrainian defenders repelled 4x attacks near Syn'kivka, Ivanivka (Kharkiv oblast). In that area, Russian forces made attempts to breach Ukrainian defense. 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 3x assaults in the vicinity of Terny (Donetsk oblast). In that area the Russian adversary made attempts to breach Ukrainian defense, to no success. Russian forces launched an air strike near Bilohorivka (Luhansk oblast). Russian forces fired artillery and mortars at around 10x settlements, including Nevs'ke, Bilohorivka, Serebryans'ke forestry (Luhansk oblast), Terny, Tors'ke, Serebryanka, Verkhn'okam'yans'ke, Rozdolivka (Donetsk oblast). Bakhmut axis: the Ukrainian Defense Forces repelled 3x attacks in the vicinities of Ivanivske and Klishchiivka (Donetsk oblast), where the Russian occupiers made attempts to improve their tactical situation. Around 10x settlements came under artillery and mortar fire, including Vasyukivka, Bohdanivka, Chasiv Yar, Ivanivske, Klishchiivka, New York (Donetsk oblast). Avdiivka axis: the Ukrainian defenders repelled 17x attacks near Avdiivka and 5x more attacks near Pervomais'ke, Nevel's'ke (Donetsk oblast). In that area, Russian forces, with air support, made attempts to breach Ukrainian defense. Russian forces launched an air strike near Oleksandropil' (Donetsk oblast). Russian forces fired artillery and mortars at around 15x settlements, including Keramik, Ocheretyne, Novobakhmutivka, Lastochkyne, Avdiivka, Karlivka (Donetsk oblast). Mar'inka axis: the Ukrainian Defense Forces continue to hold back the invaders in the vicinities of Heorhiivka, Pobjeda and Novomykhailivka (Donetsk oblast). In that area, Russian forces made 11x attempts to improve its tactical situation. Russian forces launched air strikes in the vicinities of Kurakhove, Novomykhailivka (Donetsk oblast). The settlements of Krasnohorivka, Kurakhove, Pobjeda, Novomykhailivka, Katerynivka, Yelyzavetivka were under Russian artillery and mortar fire. Shakhtars'ke axis: Russian forces conducted no offensives. The occupiers launched air strikes in the vicinities of Vodyane, Staromaiors'ke, Rivnopil' (Donetsk oblast). Russian forces fired artillery and mortars at around 10x settlements, including Vodyane, Vuhledar, Prechystivka, Blahodatne, Staromaiors'ke, Rivnopil' (Donetsk oblast). Zaporizhzhia axis: the Ukrainian Defense Forces repelled 1x attack west of Verbove (Zaporizhzhia oblast). In that area, Russian forces made attempts to breach Ukrainian defense, to no success. Russian forces launched air strikes in the vicinities of Novodarivka, Orikhiv (Zaporizhzhia oblast). More than 20x settlements, including Levadne, Hulyaipole, Charivne, Novodanylivka, Stepove, Kam'yans'ke (Zaporizhzhia oblast), were under Russian artillery and mortar fire. Odesa operational-strategic group, Kherson axis: Russian forces 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 1x unsuccessful assault on positions of Ukrainian troops. The adversary fired artillery at the city of Kherson, the settlements of Beryslav, Inhulets (Kherson oblast), Ochakiv (Mykolaiv oblast). Russian forces launched air strikes in the vicinities of Kachkarivka and Chervonyi Mayak (Kherson oblast). During the day of February 8, the Ukrainian Air Force launched air strikes on 7x concentrations of Russian troops, weapons and military equipment. The Ukrainian missile troops hit 2x Russian ammunition depots and 2x artillery systems. The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that in Kupyansk direction, the Zapad Group of Forces' units repelled five attacks launched by assault groups of AFU 30th, 44th mechanised, 25th airborne, and 13th national guard brigades near Sinkovka (Kharkov region) and Terni (Donetsk People's Republic). The enemy losses were up to 30 troops, four pick-up trucks, and one U.S.-made M777 howitzer. In Krasny Liman direction, the Tsentr Group of Forces' units improved the situation along the front line and supported by artillery repelled two attacks launched by assault groups of AFU 60th mechanised, 12th special operations brigades close to Yampolovka (Donetsk People's Republic) and Serebryansky forestry. The enemy has lost up to 230 troops, three infantry fighting vehicles, and five motor vehicles. In Donetsk direction, the Yug Group of Forces' units captured more favourable line and positions, as well as inflicted fire at manpower and hardware of AFU 22nd, 92nd mechanised brigades close to Kleshcheyevka and Andreyevka (Donetsk People's Republic). The enemy losses were up to 310 servicemen, one tank, and four motor vehicles. In the course of the counterbattery fire, one U.S.-made M777 artillery system, one Polish-made Krab self-propelled artillery system, one D-20 and one D-30 howitzers, and one MT-12 anti-tank gun. In South Donetsk direction, the Vostok Group of Forces' units and aviation hit manpower and hardware of the AFU 72nd Mechanised Brigade and the 128th Territorial Defence Brigade close to Ugledar and Makarovka (Donetsk People's Republic). The enemy has lost more than 155 troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, four motor vehicles, one Akatsiya and one Gvozdika self-propelled artillery systems, and one D-20 howitzer. In Kherson direction, units of the AFU 35th Marines Brigade and the 121st Territorial Defence Brigade suffered losses near Tokarevka and Zolotaya Balka (Kherson region). The enemy losses were up to 25 troops and three motor vehicles. In the course of the counterbattery warfare, one U.S.-made HIMARS MLRS and one Polish-made Krab self-propelled artillery system were eliminated. Operational-Tactical Aviation, unmanned aerial vehicles, and Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Groups of Forces have engaged AFU manpower and hardware in 114 areas during the day. Fighter aviation of Russian Aerospace Forces has shot down one Su-25 aircraft of Ukrainian Air Force near Novotroitskoye (Donetsk People's Republic). Air defence systems intercepted 12 Czech-made Vampire MLRS projectiles over the past 24 hours. Moreover, 73 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles have been shot down close to Yagodnoye (Kharkov region), Kremennaya (Lugansk People's Republic), Novomikhailovka, Nikolayevka (Donetsk People's Republic), and Lyubimovka (Zaporozhye region). In total, 570 airplanes and 265 helicopters, 12,040 unmanned aerial vehicles, 462 air defence missile systems, 14,938 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,218 combat vehicles equipped with MLRS, 7,995 field artillery guns and mortars, as well as 18,369 units of special military equipment have been destroyed during the special military operation. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Finland updates risk assessment of money laundering and terrorist financing Finnish Government Ministry of FinanceMinistry of the Interior 8.2.2024 Unofficial international money remittances involve a very high risk of money laundering and terrorist financing. In addition, public authorities responsible for anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism and other key actors consider the risk to be high for virtual currency providers, banks and payment service providers. The Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of the Interior have partially updated the Nation Risk Assessment of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing that they published in 2021. Shortcomings remain in the exchange of information between public authorities, with the private sector and between obliged entities. This is a significant risk in a variety of sectors. Virtual currency providers have the highest number of individual money laundering risks. The industry is continually developing, and it is particularly important that public authorities stay up to date with current trends. Public authorities have improved their ability to identify terrorist financing in many ways, but they should continue to specialise in the investigation and prosecution of terrorist offences. The risk management of obliged entities also needs improvement. Impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine analysed The impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on money laundering and terrorist financing is one of the phenomena that the ministries analyse in the risk assessment. Various methods of circumventing sanctions emerged as a key risk. Corruption and the use of remote services are the other phenomena analysed in the risk assessment. Cybercrime is considered the largest risk in remote services. The challenge of identifying corruption, particularly in political decision-making, is one of the risks relating to corruption highlighted in the assessment. Updated action plan The Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of the Interior have also updated the risk assessment's action plan for this and next year. The strategic priorities of the action plan are to: raise general awareness of money laundering and terrorist financing; enhance information exchange and statistical compilation and further develop national legislation; implement measures to mitigate the most significant individual risks highlighted in the assessment; further develop digitalisation in supervising the prevention of money laundering and terrorist financing and in risk management. Unregistered hawala operators have been included in the action plan for the first time. There is a very high risk of money laundering and terrorist financing associated with these unofficial international money remitters. Government adopts resolution The Government adopted a resolution on the partial update of the risk assessment and action plan on 8 February. Together, the risk assessment and the action plan describe Finland's national understanding of the risks of money laundering and terrorist financing and of the methods to manage those risks. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Top cop in Savannakhet sacked for underreporting drug seizures But the public is miffed that neither he nor his subordinates are facing criminal charges. By RFA Lao 2024.02.08 -- The Lao government has fired a high-ranking police officer in southern Savannakhet province for allegedly underreporting drug seizures and selling the remainder for personal profit, but didn't charge him with a criminal offense, officials said. On Jan. 25, the Lao Ministry of Public Security announced that it had fired a lieutenant colonel from the Savannakhet Provincial Police Department and disciplined four of his subordinates for underreporting seizures of methamphetamines and other drugs, and dealing the surplus. The rare removal of a leading police official has made waves in impoverished Laos, where corruption is rampant and government officials enjoy near-total immunity from criminal acts. But members of the public were upset that the disciplined police officers - like many other officials accused of corruption - aren't facing prosecution. They told RFA Lao that people in positions of authority who break the law should be criminally charged, just like any other person, rather than given a slap on the wrist. "If [officials] break the law ... they should not only be fired, but also charged with a criminal offense and jailed if found guilty," said one citizen. "Just because they have power, doesn't mean they are immune from justice. Everybody must be treated equally under the same laws." An official from the province confirmed the disciplinary action in an interview with RFA on Wednesday. "The Ministry of Public Security dismissed the head of a police unit who is a lieutenant colonel, and disciplined four lower-ranking police officers - demoting and relocating them," said the official who, like others interviewed for this report, spoke on condition of anonymity citing security concerns. A police officer who worked with the five also confirmed their punishment in comments made to RFA. "Only the head of the police unit was sacked," he said. "The other four are still working for the provincial police department, but were demoted and relocated to other positions." The officer said that the lieutenant colonel was "not charged with a criminal offense" because "being fired is the most severe punishment" he could receive. He said public security officials from the central government had traveled down to Savannakhet to personally oversee the disciplinary process. A drop in rankings Failure to hold officials accountable for corruption is an unfortunately common practice in Laos. In 2022, RFA reported that the Ministry of Public Security disciplined 11 police officers by demoting them and relocating them within the capital Vientiane Police Department for allegedly accepting bail money and bribes from the accused and prisoners. A similar case occurred in 2021, when the ministry dismissed two police officers - a captain and a lieutenant - who were said to have been involved in smuggling goods, illegal gambling, and allowing foreigners to enter the country without visas. None of the officers were ever charged for their alleged crimes. In its 2023 index, released on Jan. 30, graft watchdog Transparency International ranked Laos 136th out of 180 countries in terms of corruption perception, down from 126th a year earlier. The ranking placed Laos on par with Gabon, Mali and Paraguay. Last year, the Lao State Inspection Authority said it had identified nine corrupt officials responsible for embezzling US$36 million in state funds. From 2021 to 2022, it reported that 74 officials had committed financial crimes, leading to a loss of US$52 million. The official numbers are likely a drop in the bucket compared to what the state actually loses to graft on a yearly basis. Part of the problem, observers say, is that not enough is being done by the central government to address the root causes of corruption in Laos. No solutions offered Plenty of officials have made it known that they are aware of the problems of corruption and immunity within the Lao government and among those who hold positions of power. Gen. Vilay Lakhamfong, the Lao minister of public security, recently acknowledged that "some police officers abuse their power and position by facilitating drug trafficking and smuggling, while others set up checkpoints on highways and demand bribes from motorists." But the minister provided no details on what measures the government plans to put in place to deal with such offenses. Even speaking privately, officials have appeared at a loss for how to rein in fraud in Laos. RFA recently spoke with a member of the Lao State Inspection Authority who also expressed frustration over what he called "widespread corruption" in the country. "Many local and central government officials do everything in their own interest," he said. "Our laws have loopholes allowing officials to commit corruption. Our inspection agency has found many corrupt officials, and we've fired and demoted many of them." However, the state inspection official failed to elaborate on how the government should address the reasons behind the problem. Consequences and root causes Other citizens RFA spoke with said it is no secret that the authorities facilitate the drug trade and other forms of smuggling in Laos. "Drug trafficking is on the news every day - the smugglers ship tons of drugs through Laos and then across the border to Thailand," he said. "They can't just do this by themselves, they must work with the police." But he complained that Lao government employees, including police officers, are paid low wages, making them susceptible to bribes they use to pad their incomes. "They receive salaries that aren't enough to live on," he said. "If they made enough, corruption wouldn't exist." Others have called for stricter punishments to send a message to would-be offenders. At a meeting of the Lao National Assembly last year, a member of parliament urged the government to do more to crack down on graft, saying that alleged offenders should face criminal charges, at the very least. "Our government has failed to tackle corruption," the lawmaker said. "It doesn't matter how powerful or high up an official is - he or she must be punished. So far, we haven't done that." In the meantime, ordinary citizens are paying the price for the government's unwillingness to solve the problem, a resident of Champassak province told RFA. "Our laws are ineffective," the resident said. "And it is because of corruption that our country has never been developed." Translated by Max Avary. Edited by Joshua Lipes and Malcolm Foster. 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 February not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Background Press Call on Bilateral Engagements and the Trilateral Fentanyl Committee's Fourth Meeting in Mexico February 08, 2024 Via Teleconference 9:06 A.M. EST MODERATOR: Thank you so much. Good morning, everyone. And thank you so much for joining us on this call this morning to discuss the bilateral engagements and the Trilateral Fentanyl Committee's fourth meeting in Mexico, which was led by the White House Homeland Security Advisor, Dr. Liz Sherwood-Randall. As a reminder, this call is on background, attributable to senior administration officials, and it will be embargoed until the end of the call. For your awareness, not for reporting purposes, on the line we have [senior administration official], [senior administration official], [senior administration official] from the Department of Homeland Security. From Department of Justice, we have [senior administration official]. And from the State Department Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement, we have [senior administration official]. And with that, I will turn it to [senior administration official] to give us just brief toplines on the trip's first day. Over to you. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Good morning. And thank you, Vanessa. On February 6th to 7th, Homeland Security Advisor Dr. Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall led an interagency delegation to Mexico. She was accompanied by Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco, Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources Richard Verma, Acting Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security Kristie Canegallo, and Deputy Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy Adam Cohen, as well as Tiffany, my colleague, and I accompanied the delegation as well as other representatives from the State Department, the Department of Justice, Department of Homeland Security, and of course, our ambassador and members of the embassy team. The focus of our bilateral engagements was to continue what has been a consistent, constructive, and candid dialogue between our two countries and to strengthen cooperation with Mexican partners on a range of topics, including managing hemispheric migration, countering traffic of illicit drugs and weapons, as well as regional coordination efforts on the same. On the first day, Dr. Sherwood-Randall and our Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar met with Mexican President AndrAs Manuel LApez Obrador and Foreign Secretary Alicia BArcena, which was intended for the president and our Homeland Security Advisor to build a to follow up on the conversations between President Joe Biden and President LApez Obrador on February 3rd. I won't say more than a beyond what was in the readout yesterday, except to say that it was a long and substantive discussion on a range of topics and incredibly productive and constructive from our perspective. Now, following that meeting, the full interagency delegation then met with counterparts of the Mexican security cabinet to review progress made through our joint efforts and to determine a number of next steps. So, on that end, we agreed to two concrete steps: to increase information and data sharing between the United States and Mexico a to increase the already existing relationship we have on information and data sharing to facilitate action against criminal organizations that traffic people, guns, and illicit drugs, including fentanyl, into our communities; and agreed to a specific set of timelines so that we keep ourselves on track, accountable, and delivering for our peoples of the country. When I mention "specific," we are, you know, obviously sharing information actively with the Mexicans. We've agreed to basically track the same metrics and really, kind of, measure our own progress against the metrics that we're setting for ourselves. I'll leave it at that so we have more time for questions. Back to you, Vanessa. MODERATOR: Thank you so much one. At this moment, I'll turn it over to [senior administration official] to go over day two. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Hey, good morning. Thank you all for joining us. So, yesterday, Mexico's Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection Rosa Icela RodrAguez hosted White House Homeland Security Advisor Dr. Liz Sherwood-Randall and Canada's Deputy Clerk and National Security and Intelligence Advisor Nathalie Drouin in the fourth meeting of the Trilateral Fentanyl Committee to review progress on our commitments and discuss further joint actions to stem the flow of illicit synthetic drugs and firearms trafficking. By way of background, President Biden, President LApez Obrador, and Prime Minister Trudeau established the Trilateral Fentanyl Committee in January of last year, during the North American Leaders' Summit, to guide party actions to address the threat from illicit synthetic drugs, notably fentanyl, in North America. At the meeting yesterday, we all agreed that this is a shared threat not only for countries in North America but around the globe. We also agreed we must not wait to act a to continue to act until this becomes an even bigger crisis in our homes, communities, and countries. We will be issuing a joint communiquA shortly on the meeting, but I'll take a few minutes just to go over actionable, concrete steps our three countries committed to. So, first, we committed to increasing collaboration on the control of precursor chemicals and equipment related to illicit drug production. Second, we agreed to continuously review our legal framework to identify areas for improvement and to close any identified gaps. Thirdly, we agreed to further engage the private sector to combat the production of illicit synthetic drugs and highlight legal risks. Fourth, to strengthen diplomatic efforts to build on the progress of the Global Coalition to Address Synthetic Drug Threats and with other countries around the world. Fifth, to develop and implement a common drug and substances analysis protocol, which will allow toxicologists from all three countries to improve our understanding of regional drug trends. Sixth, to convene a forum to discuss strategies and their implementation for assisting the long-term recovery of individuals with substance use disorders. Seven, to expand the scope of the Trilateral Fentanyl Committee to address firearms trafficking under the auspices of the North American Drug Dialogue. Eight, to commit to developing a trilateral report that documents cross-border firearm seizures in all three countries to better inform our strategies and actions. Nine, to commit to increase our use of the ATF's eTrace Database to allow for more and faster joint investigations into the illicit trafficking of firearms across our shared borders. And finally, tenth, both Mexico and Canada committed to embed personnel at the U.S. Customs and Border Protection National Targeting Center to increase and expedite information sharing on criminals and illicit activities associated with the trafficking of both fentanyl and firearms. And then, finally, the group committed to meet again sometime in the spring, most likely in Canada. MODERATOR: Thank you so much. With that, I think we're going to go straight into questions. I recognize that we started a few moments late, so we're going to go straight into questions. Just a friendly reminder to our friends on the line that we will keep questions focused on this trip to Mexico. You can ask about on bilateral engagements with our Mexican partners and the Trilateral Fentanyl Committee's fourth meeting with the Mexican and Canadian partners. Please, I know that there might be questions about ongoing negotiations on the Hill. We ask kindly that we keep the questions focused on the trip. With that, Candace, over to you to give our friends on the line the instructions on how to ask questions. Over. We'll go first to Rafael Bernal from the Hill. Q Hi. Thank you for having this. A couple of quick questions. And I don't mean to be flip about this, but is the joint communiquA going to address democratic decline in Mexico? And related question: You know, there's been a lot of allegations of corruption in a and drug-related corruption in President LApez Obrador's immediate circle. That's made a lot of noise lately. Does that affect the level of confidence in which you can engage in deals with that government? And obviously, you know, he's not doing all the work with his immediate and broader circles. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: I can take the first one, and then my colleagues can jump in on the others. So, thanks, Rafael. The topic of democratic governance is not in the statement because it was not the focus of the conversation. We focused strictly on trilateral fentanyl cooperation and a number of other topics, which are the purview of the Homeland Security Advisor. But we engage in wide-ranging discussions directly with the Mexicans on these topics, so I would not read into its exclusion as something that is deprioritized. It just wasn't the subject of the meeting. MODERATOR: [Senior administration official], do you want to take the second one? SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Sure. This is [senior administration official] from DOJ. The Deputy Attorney General had productive conversations with Attorney General Gertz and also members of the Mexican security cabinet. And the issue that you flagged was never raised because what we were talking about was how we're going to work going forward on countering fentanyl and firearms trafficking. MODERATOR: Thank you very much. We'll go to JosA DAaz from the Reforma. Q Thank you so much. On January 19, President Biden told the U.S. Conference of Mayors that fentanyl flows to the U.S. had slowed down. Can you provide some metrics to back up that statement? Because we haven't gotten any. And did you address a sorry, did the National [sic] Security Advisor address the complaints by the Mexican president during that meeting regarding these stories and ProPublica and other outlets about his potential involvement a sorry, the potential involvement of drug money in his first presidential campaign? Thank you. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: [Senior administration official], do you want me to do the second part? And then somebody can take fentanyl. Really quickly, just a look, on the second part, we're not going to get into the details of the internal conversations between the Homeland Security Advisor and the president. Again, I think the focus of the discussion that we had, either a both in the bilateral meeting and the trilateral fentanyl discussion a was on strengthening already excellent cooperation that we have with the Mexicans on a number of topics, including law enforcement cooperation, migration, and just broader regional efforts to address the root causes of migration. So we were focused on building on a very strong foundation of cooperation that we built. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Hi, this is [senior administration official] from State Department. I can address the first part of the question if you'd like. MODERATOR: Please go ahead, [senior administration official]. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Okay, thanks. What we believe we are seeing is more of a flattening of the numbers of fentanyl, but we are watching them month by month, and we judge it on an annual basis from summer to summer. So I think we will have a much better idea later this summer. But we have seen the numbers flatten, I would say, so we are hoping that will lead to a decline. However, you know, nearing 110,000 drug overdose deaths total, with about 70 percent of those coming from synthetic drugs, including fentanyl a it's still way too high. So we have some work to do. Over. MODERATOR: Thanks, [senior administration official]. Thanks, [senior administration official]. We'll go next to Colleen Long from the AP. Q Hi there. Thank you for doing the call. I have two questions. So, the first one is: You were talking about how to measure success. I just wondered if you could go into that a little bit more, because I assume it's more than just, like, you know, fentanyl product seized. And I know that it's often really difficult to sort of, like, prove a negative if there are fewer instances of fentanyl a how do you know if you're succeeding. So I was kind of curious about, like, how the measurements would work. And then, I know that you guys can't necessarily get into this, but I just have to ask if this a you know, how these efforts to sort of combat fentanyl may or may not be affected by, you know, whatever lack of funding is happening thanks to Congress. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Look, thanks. On the metrics a and, [senior administration official], you may want to add to this as well. Look, you're exactly right that, you know, we're not a it's not necessarily effective to measure very, kind of, singular outcomes, metrics. A lot of the metrics that we are basically discussing with the Mexicans reflect what is incredibly complex and sophisticated cooperation that we have in information sharing, in how we actually approach law enforcement operations, you know, how we actually allocate our investment resources. And so, a lot of this is really just part of our internal planning process to ensure that, you know, when it comes to whether it's information sharing at the ports, whether it is information on law enforcement operations in the United States that can benefit Mexico, or the other way around, trying to arrive at common metrics to show that our cooperation is improving. It also gives us good insights into how we're disrupting the functioning of transnational criminal organizations, a sense of where the flowing a the trafficking routes are. So a lot of it is really trying to make sure that when we are engaging as robustly and as actively as we are with the Mexicans, that we're basically comparing apples to apples and oranges to oranges to improve how we can actually adjust to what is, you know, criminal organizations that are evolving and adapting rapidly. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: To add to what [senior administration official] said, that, you know, what the Biden-Harris administration has been really focused on is on saving American lives. And when we meet with our partners in Canada and Mexico, that's what we're focused on doing, is saving the lives of our citizens in all three countries from the scourge of both fentanyl and firearms. And so, what we've been focused on is taking a whole series of actions, both in this context with Mexico and Canada and stopping the flow of fentanyl and firearms, as well as doing things on the public health side, trying to make lifesaving treatments more available to members of the population of the United States, et cetera. So I think it's a whole host of actions. And we have seen some progress on that front by, kind of, the flattening of the curve of the number of individuals in the United States that are dying from overdose deaths. And so, this is just kind of one piece of everything that we are doing in the U.S. context to try and save American lives, working with our partners in Mexico and Canada, and tackling this shared threat in a global context through things like the global coalition that I mentioned and others, because this really is a the synthetic drug threat really is a global threat. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: This is [senior administration official] at State, if I can just add on to what [senior administration official] was saying. Mexico is actually playing a very active role in the global coalition. They are the co-chair of the working group on health issues, which is a priority for them, which has been great. We have worked with them and other countries, and have a to identify emerging threats as well, because while it's fentanyl right now, it isn't just fentanyl; it's a polydrug problem a it's fentanyl mixed with other drugs. And together with Mexico and other countries, we have already identified that liquid fentanyl, which is medical grade and not as lethal, is being introduced into the illicit market in the hopes of trying to hook additional people. So the work that we are doing with Mexico, Canada, and everyone else in the global coalition is already starting to pay dividends just in information sharing and exchanges, but we also will have a lot of projects we'll work on with them together. Mexico has also been very supportive in the multilateral fora. They participated in an event with the Secretary of State at the U.N. General Assembly. They have supported us in resolutions, saying that this is a global threat that requires global action, and also in getting additional precursors scheduled at the U.N. Commission on Narcotic Drugs. Over. MODERATOR: Thank you, [senior administration official]. Super helpful. We'll go next to JosA de CArdoba. JosA, if you could remind us which outlet you are from. Thank you. Q Yes, hi. This is JosA de CArdoba from the Wall Street Journal. I have two questions. Last year, people in the Sinaloa cartel said they were stopping fentanyl trafficking in the areas they control around Culiacan. Some dealers were killed. Some labs were shut down. Is that continuing? And if so, has the Sinaloa cartel stopped trafficking fentanyl? And if so, who has taken up the slack? That's one question. The second question is: Does Mexico a the Mexican government accept that there are fentanyl labs operating in Mexico? MODERATOR: Perhaps [senior administration official] can start off with the first, or (inaudible), and then [senior administration official] can take the second one. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: This is [senior administration official] from DOJ. So, on the first question about whether Sinaloa has stopped fentanyl production, I'll say that that topic also did not come up during our meetings with the Mexicans. We were focused on stopping fentanyl crossing the border from Mexico into the United States and the joint efforts we can take there, wherever the fentanyl is coming from, from whatever drug-trafficking organization is peddling it across the border. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Yeah, and I would just underscore what my colleague from DOJ said a is that the focus of the conversation was really on expanding our cooperation to deliver outcomes. And so, we didn't a we really actually focused on increasing those areas of collaboration. And I think that was the focus of the discussion. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Hey, this is [senior administration official]. So the one thing I would add to what my colleagues have said is that, you know, regardless of what Sinaloa has said publicly, we know that fentanyl is still continuing to come across our border into the United States. We're continuing to see fentanyl that is entering the United States, both in powder and pill format. So I think that just emphasizes the need for these meetings and, kind of, for our continued cooperation on these issues. MODERATOR: All right, is there a hearing no other comments from our speakers, I'll go to our last question. Jesus Esquivel, can you remind us a are you ProPublica? Q Hi, good morning. This is Jesus Esquivel from Proceso Magazine of Mexico. I have two questions to [senior administration official]. Foreign Minister of Mexico BArcena said, even though that you say you're going to talk about the details, that the U.S. government in these meetings a the case of (inaudible) involvement of drug money in the campaign was closed. And secondly, it was a discussion with regard to the argument of the Mexican government that has been illegal traffic of military weapons from the U.S. and Mexico? SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Happy to answer that, Jesus. Look, so I think what you're referring to is the press conference the foreign secretary gave after the meetings. And she was saying that what she said (inaudible) was referring to the a that it's just not something that a it was not the focus of the discussion, has not impacted the bilateral relationship. And, in fact, that was really the spirit of the conversations, was building on what has been an excellent foundation that we've built since 2021. And, you know, can you repeat the second part of the question? Q If there was any discussion of the argument of the Mexican government that has been illegal traffic of military weapons from the U.S. to Mexico. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Yeah, I'll let DOJ speak to that. We can step in as well. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Hi, this is [senior administration official]. So, that topic, we did discuss the trafficking of weapons from the United States to Mexico. Obviously, it's a large problem and one that we have an obligation and that we would like to assist both United States citizens and Mexican citizens with stopping. The idea of trafficking of military weapons into Mexico came up. We discussed it. And there's no evidence that military weapons from the United States are being trafficked into Mexico. MODERATOR: All right, I see we have one more question from JosA from the Wall Street Journal. We'll go to JosA. Q Yes, hi. The president of Mexico has many times said that there are no fentanyl labs operating in Mexico. I would assume that would have an impact on cooperation between the two countries on how to deal with fentanyl. What is Mexico's official position on that now? What does the U.S. think about it? SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Hi, this is [senior administration official]. You know, as to Mexico's official position, we would, of course, defer to the Mexican government to provide their official position. What I will say about our cooperation with Mexico is that it is very strong across these issues. I think the, kind of, series of due-outs that I went over that will be in the joint communiquA today from the Trilateral Fentanyl Committee is good evidence of that. And we know that our Mexican colleagues work very hard against this threat on a daily basis, that they have made great sacrifices in this fight a you know, the loss of their soldiers and policemen in this fight. And we recognize that and appreciate that. And we feel that we have a very strong partnership across all aspects of this issue, from trying to shut down the flow of fentanyl across our border to working on firearms to working together on the public health aspect of this threat. MODERATOR: All right. So we'll have time for one last question. We'll go to Teresa CebriAn. Teresa, would you please remind us what outlet you're from? Q Hi, how are you? Yes, this is Teresa from PBS NewsHour. I want to talk about some reporting that fentanyl is primarily trafficked by U.S. citizens. This is something that Secretary of Foreign Affairs Alicia BArcena has also said. I wanted to know if that came up in your conversations and what you're doing to address that. Thank you. MODERATOR: [Senior administration official] or [senior administration official, either of you want to start off with this one? We might have lost them. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Let me jump in real quick, Vanessa, just with some toplines on this. This is [senior administration official]. So, look, I think it's important to note here that fentanyl trafficking has an entire supply chain. And we are, you know, focusing on the cooperation on preventing the flow of precursor chemicals, some of which are obviously dual-use. On that, we've made incredible progress with the Mexicans, focusing on the transnational criminal organizations that are trafficking and involve the manufacturing of that a of fentanyl, and then, of course, the trafficking across the border. There have been some open-source reporting that the majority of the trafficking comes in through points of entry. That is largely accurate. And others are saying that primarily U.S. persons coming across the border. I think it's important to, I think, note that the criminal supply chain is one that is incredibly long and that we are focusing on actually attacking the transnational criminal networks that are involved in managing that entire supply chain. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: This is [senior administration official]. To build off of what [senior administration official] was saying, you know, this really is a a this is not just a threat to North America, this is a global threat. And this is why we are working not just with our Mexican and Canadian partners, but our global partners through the global coalition, as I mentioned previously. And we've also been working closely with the PRC. As you all know, we recently resumed counternarcotics cooperation with the PRC, sent a delegation there just last week. And Mexico is also engaging with the PRC and has sent a delegation there and is working closely with them on counternarcotics cooperation as well. MODERATOR: All right, thank you, everyone. That's all the time we have for today. Thanks for joining us. The embargo has now lifted. Again, this call was on background, attributable to senior administration officials. And we will try to get this joint communiquA on the TFC out as soon as possible and out to you guys. Thank you, and have a great day. 9:36 A.M. EST NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Indo-Pacific Endeavour returns to Maldives By Lieutenant Geoff Long 8 February 2024 Defence's flagship regional engagement activity, Indo-Pacific Endeavour (IPE), returned to Maldives in January for only the second time. IPE first came to the country in 2022, paving the way for Australia's inaugural P-8A Poseidon visit to Maldives later that year. The most recent visit included key leadership engagement between senior leaders of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) and an Australian delegation led by Commander IPE23 Air Commodore Tony McCormack and Commander IPE24 Commodore Michael Harris, and newly appointed Defence Advisor to the Maldives Colonel Amanda Johnston. Air Commodore McCormack, who was on his final country visit before transferring command to Commodore Harris, said the visit had provided a platform for further engagement in Maldives as part of IPE24 later in the year. "As Indian Ocean neighbours, Australia and Maldives share interests in maritime security, trade, combating transnational crime and collaboration on the oceans and environment," Air Commodore McCormack said. "Our engagement this week involving our key leaders, training experts, Air Force band and Navy Imam has allowed us to enhance relationships and plan future activities that support our joint interests." The visit was timed to coincide with a reception to mark 50 years of diplomatic relations between Australia and Maldives, which were formalised in 1974. Air Commodore McCormack said the final round of engagement for IPE23 capped off a successful series of activities in the region. "We engaged with 14 countries through ship, aircraft and personnel visits, with more than 2000 ADF personnel participating in IPE23," he said. In 2024, IPE will conduct engagements with Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Timor-Leste, Thailand and Vietnam, in addition to Maldives. Commodore Harris said IPE24, under his command, would continue to focus on deepening diplomatic and defence partnerships across Southeast Asia and the Northeast Indian Ocean. "IPE is a key way we invest in our regional partnerships," Commodore Harris said. "Strong cooperation and the ability to work with security forces of the Indo-Pacific is critical to supporting a peaceful, secure and prosperous region." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Telephone conversation with President of China Xi Jinping President Vladimir Putin had an extensive telephone conversation with President of China Xi Jinping. February 8, 2024 14:15 The President of Russia offered heartfelt greetings to the President of China and the friendly Chinese nation on the upcoming Spring Festival. The presidents summarised the latest results in developing the overarching Russia-China partnership and strategic cooperation. They reaffirmed that the neighbourly links between our countries are at a historically high level. They stressed, with satisfaction, that bilateral trade exceeded $200 billion a year ahead of the goal set by the leaders, reaching a record of $227.7 billion. In the context of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Russia and China, marked this year, the presidents expressed mutual interest in promoting cooperation across all areas, including energy, finance, infrastructure, transport, industrial production, agriculture, humanitarian and sport exchanges. Both parties expressed willingness to advance coordination in foreign policy within the framework of various multilateral bodies such as the UN, BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. Xi Jinping supported the priorities of the Russian BRICS Chairmanship. President Putin and President Xi had a detailed exchange on the situation in several regions, including the Middle East, where both Russia and China support a political and diplomatic settlement of the Palestinian problem within the generally recognised framework of international law. When discussing the state of affairs in the Asia-Pacific Region, President Putin confirmed Russia's principled stance on Taiwan, which is support for the One-China policy. The presidents also covered the current situation in Ukraine. Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping specifically stressed that close Russia-China interaction is an important stabilising factor in world affairs. The leaders agreed to continue one-on-one contact. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Members of Engineering Unit Rotation 2 of Vietnam pose for a group photo before departing for UNISFA in August 2023. (File photo: VNA) The activities have helped enhance solidarity among the UN peacekeeping units at UNISFA as well as between them and residents in the Abyei Area, according to the Vietnam Department of Peacekeeping Operations under the Ministry of National Defence. Major Nguyen Mau Vu, Commissar of the Engineering Unit, said that celebrating major anniversaries and Tet is among important activities the unit has made plans on since they assumed duties at UNISFA. In particular, the recent official recognition of the Lunar New Year as a UN floating holiday holds great significance for peacekeepers like them who often celebrate Tet far away from their families. To mark the Year of the Dragon 2024, Engineering Unit Rotation 2 has built detailed plans on each activity like making chung cakes a signature dish of Tet, holding room decoration and cooking competitions, planting the neu pole another symbol of Tet, and organising folk games. The unit has also organised a volleyball exchange with residents in Abyei, presented gifts to locals, and invited them to try traditional dishes of Vietnam. The activities aim to help the blue beret soldiers celebrate a merrier New Year festival besides their comrades, support their spiritual life, and introduce the Vietnamese culture to locals, Vu said. However, the entire unit hasnt neglected their duties, including preparing plans to protect security and safety for their base amid complex and unpredictable developments in Abyei, the officer added. On behalf of the unit, he wished Vietnamese people nationwide and abroad good health, joy, happiness, and good luck in the New Year./. Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin's Regular Press Conference on February 8, 2024 Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China 2024-02-08 19:45 CCTV: With the New Year approaching, could you share more with us about the events that the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Embassies and Consulates have planned for overseas Chinese during the upcoming Spring Festival of the Year of the Dragon? Wang Wenbin: With the Spring Festival drawing near, the Foreign Ministry actively delivers on the spirit of the Central Conference on Work Relating to Foreign Affairs and puts into practice the principle of serving the people through diplomatic work. The Ministry has directed our embassies and consulates to hold the "Embracing the Chinese New Year" special program around the world, conveying the care from the Party and the government. The Embassies and consulates visited fellow compatriots living in difficulty and held cultural activities in various forms to celebrate the Chinese New Year with all the overseas Chinese. In the new year ahead, we believe that overseas Chinese will continue to play the distinctive role as a bridge to connect the homeland and the rest of the world, pool the strength to realize the Chinese Dream of national rejuvenation, and contribute to deepening the friendship between China and other countries. We wish all overseas Chinese a happy and prosperous Year of the Dragon! AFP: Two explosions occurred before the elections in Pakistan. What is your comment? What is China's expectation for the elections in Pakistan? Wang Wenbin: We are deeply shocked by and strongly condemn the attacks in Pakistan. We mourn for the victims and express our sympathies to their families and the injured.a China opposes all forms of terrorism and firmly supports the Pakistani government and people in making relentless effort to eradicate terrorism and safeguard the security and stability of the society.a You mentioned the general elections in Pakistan. This is the internal affair of Pakistan. As the all-weather strategic partner and iron-clad friend, we hope the general elections in Pakistan will be held in a smooth, steady and safe manner. Reuters: The Philippine Defense Secretary has ordered the military to boost the number of troops and structures in the remote Batanes islands less than 200 kilometers from Taiwan to fortify Manila's territorial defense capabilities. What's China's comment? Wang Wenbin: China and the Philippines are neighbors across the sea. Friendly exchanges predominate in the history of our bilateral relations. A close neighbor can be more helpful than a distant relative. Neighbors should get along with each other based on the principle of good-neighborliness, friendship, mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and non-interference in each others' internal affairs.a I want to stress again that the Taiwan question is at the heart of China's core interests and is a red line and bottom line that must not be crossed. Relevant parties in the Philippines need to understand it clearly, tread carefully and don't play with fire on this question to avoid being manipulated and eventually hurt. CNR: It was reported that the current President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev won the presidential elections on February 7 and will serve another term. What is China's comment? Wang Wenbin: Azerbaijan has long been a friendly partner of China. We express our congratulations on the successful presidential elections in the country and on the re-election of President Ilham Aliyev. China respects the choice of the Azerbaijani people and stands ready to work with Azerbaijan to deepen cooperation in various areas and bring the bilateral relations to a new level. AFP: Taiwan authorities announced yesterday that a man wanted for suspicion of scam was successfully repatriated from Poland this year. Has China lodged representations to Poland on this? Wang Wenbin: Liu Hongtao, a resident of Taiwan, China, is suspected of telecom fraud. China made the request to Poland for extradition in accordance with the law to combat crimes and protect the lawful rights and interests of the victims. This is completely legitimate and lawful. China attaches great importance to the protection and advancement of human rights, stands firmly against torture, and has achieved remarkable progress in human rights protection in the judicial area. The ruling by the European Court of Human Rights and its rejection of Poland's appeal application shows no respect for facts and falls short of justice and fairness. The ruling has no factual ground and is legally untenable. It is in the common interests of the international community to enhance enforcement and judicial cooperation and jointly combat cross-border crimes. China has successfully carried out enforcement and judicial cooperation, including extradition, with many countries, and will continue to work with the rest of the international community to jointly combat cross-border crimes and promote personnel, economic and trade exchanges of all sectors. There is but one China in the world; Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory; and the government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China. We urge Poland to adhere to the one-China principle, handle Taiwan-related issues in a prudent and proper manner and uphold the overall interest of China-Poland relations. China Daily: According to foreign media reports, Turkish prosecutors recently approved again the arrest of 25 suspects in relation to the church attack in Istanbul, and will charge them for "membership in a terrorist organisation" and "qualified intentional homicide." One of the suspects, who was formerly a Chinese national and has naturalized as a Turkish national now, is related to the Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM) and the "Islamic State." What is China's comment? Wang Wenbin: We noted the reports. The Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM), also named East Turkistan Islamic Party or Turkistan Islamic Party (TIP), has plotted and carried out a number of violent terrorist attacks both inside and outside China. It was designated by China in accordance with the law and listed by the UN Security Council as a terrorist organization. It was also listed by the Turkish government as a terrorist organization. In recent years, the ETIM has colluded more closely with other international and regional terrorist and separatist forces, such as the "Islamic State", "Al-Qaeda" and the "Balochistan Liberation Army", to plot continuous attacks against overseas Chinese targets and take part in or carry out terrorist activities in relevant countries and regions, which gravely threaten China's interests and security overseas and seriously undermine the security and stability of relevant countries and regions. Terrorism is a common enemy of mankind. Relevant reports once again show that the ETIM is a terrorist organization that causes great harm. Combating ETIM is a core concern of China in its counterterrorism effort and a shared responsibility of the international community. China stands ready to step up counterterrorism cooperation with TArkiye and other members of the international community to firmly strike down on ETIM and keep the region and the world safe and stable. NHK: Leak of untreated water has been found at Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant in Japan. What is China's comment on that? Wang Wenbin: We have noticed the reports. China is carrying out an assessment. The incident again exposes the long-existing problems with TEPCO's internal management. Japan has the responsibility to make public the incident in a timely, comprehensive and transparent manner and responsibly provide the details of it. The discharge plan will last for 30 years or even longer. Can Japan ensure safety and be responsible in the future discharge management? Can the Fukushima nuclear-contaminated water treatment and discharge facilities work stably and effectively over the long run? We have every reason to be concerned and a big question mark has been put over this. The nuclear-contaminated water leak at the TEPCO facility once again highlighted the critical need for an international monitoring scheme effective for the long haul. China urges Japan to respond to international concerns with all seriousness, dispose of the nuclear-contaminated water in a responsible way, and cooperate fully in putting in place a long-term independent and effective international monitoring scheme with substantive participation of Japan's neighboring countries and other stakeholders, so as to avoid irrevocable consequences stemming from the ocean discharge. AFP: The US Department of Justice arrested on Tuesday a Chinese-born engineer named Gong Chenguang who became a US citizen in 2011. What's your response to his arrest? Do you know what he has done? Wang Wenbin: I am not aware of the situation. Beijing Daily: On February 7, cybersecurity-related agencies from the Five Eyes alliance jointly released a cybersecurity advisory, warning that the PRC state-sponsored cyber group known as Volt Typhoon crept into multiple critical infrastructure organizations in the US and China pre-positioned themselves on IT networks for disruptive cyberattacks. What's China's comment? Wang Wenbin: We firmly oppose the US and other countries of "the Five Eyes alliance" smearing and attacking China without any evidence. Last May, countries of "the Five Eyes alliance" released a similar report discrediting China. Less than a year later, we see another "the Five Eyes alliance" production of the "Smear China" franchise, same made-up plot about "Chinese cyber attack", same shoddiness.aa "The Five Eyes alliance" needs to know that falsely accusing China will not hide the fact that "the Five Eyes alliance" is the largest global intelligence agency and the US is the No.1 "hacking state" in the world. The US has established a large cyber arsenal, which includes typical weapons like the "PRISM" program disclosed by Edward Snowden, the Project "CAMBERDADA" by the US media, the Equation group by the Shadow Brokers, and Vault 7 by WikiLeaks. These cyber weapons put the critical global infrastructure and people's life and production in all countries in jeopardy. In addition to reports released yesterday, China's cybersecurity institutions have for some time issued some US-related cybersecurity reports, disclosing how the US government has put the critical global infrastructure in jeopardy and turned into the number one source of cyber risks and challenges. The US owes the world an explanation. We keep a firm stance against all forms of cyber attacks and resort to lawful methods in tackling them. Four years ago, China put forward the Global Initiative on Data Security, which calls on countries to jointly build a cyberspace featuring peace, security, openness, cooperation and a sound order, and not use information technology to undermine other countries' critical infrastructure, steal important data, and endanger their national security and public interests. If "the Five Eyes alliance" truly wants to keep cyberspace safe, they are welcome to join the Global Initiative on Data Security. Let's stay tuned and see what else is in the alliance' play script of spreading disinformation on "Chinese cyberattacks". CCTV: We noticed that UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres extended the Lunar New Yea greetings in a video to the global Chinese communities. He said that the Lunar New Year is part of the UN holiday calendar for the first time, and he also expressed thanks to China and the Chinese people for the unwavering support to the United Nations, multilateralism and global progress. What is your comment? Wang Wenbin: This year's Spring Festival will be the first one since the UN decided to list the Lunar New Year as a UN floating holiday. With the Lunar New Year of Dragon approaching, leaders of countries and international organizations have sent messages or letters to extend the New Year greetings to President Xi Jinping and the Chinese people. Apart from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres you mentioned, leaders including General Secretary of the Communist Party of Viet Nam Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong, General Secretary of Lao People's Revolutionary Party Central Committee and Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith, President of Indonesia Joko Widodo, Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko, President the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Zhaparov, President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, Turkmenistan's President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, King of Saudi Arabia Salman bin Abudulaziz Al Saud and Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, the UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, Tunisian President Kais Saied, President of the State of Israel Isaac Herzog, Senegalese President Macky Sall, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, Ghana's President Nana Akufo-Addo, President of the Central African Republic Faustin-Archange TouadAra, Seychellois President Wavel Ramkalawan, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, Bulgarian President Rumen Radev, Croatian President Zoran Milanovic, Hungarian President Katalin NovAk, President of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides, Mexican President AndrAs Manuel LApez Obrador, Cuban Revolutionary Leader Raul Castro, First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba and Cuban President DAaz-Canel, and Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz, Sri Lanka President Ranil Wickremesinghe and Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, Vanuatu's Prime Minister Charlot Salwai, and Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands Manasseh Sogavare, have sent New Year greetings to China. World leaders have largely expressed that in the past year, China, under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, have achieved new and great accomplishments in pursuing Chinese modernization, which brings new opportunities to the world and new hope to the developing countries. China plays an increasingly important role in upholding international fairness and justice. Leaders of the world reaffirmed their firm commitment to the one-China principle, and they are glad to see China's steady progress in sustainable development. The traditional virtues of the Chinese people including sincerity, kindness and enthusiasm continue to be strengthened as part of the national spirit. They wish the Chinese people an auspicious and prosperous year. In the Year of Dragon, China will strive for continued progress with strength, wisdom and innovationa and make impressive achievements on the international stage. We would like to express our heartfelt appreciation for the well wishes from world leaders and heads of international organizations. The Spring Festival is a traditional one for family reunion and also celebrated globally as a public holiday. In the New Year ahead, we will continue to deepen friendly cooperation and exchanges with all countries, and work with the international community and bear in mind the futurea and the wellbeing of humanity to build a community with a shared future for mankind and a better world. **************** During the Spring Festival holiday, there will be no regular press conference from Friday, February 9 to Sunday, February 18. The regular press conference will be resumed on Monday, February 19. During this period, questions can be submitted to the Spokesperson's Office via fax, email or WeChat. On the threshold of the Year of the Dragon, everything looks anew. We wish all Chinese and foreign journalists at our regular press conference and all friends who have long taken an interest in and supported Chinese diplomacy a happy Chinese New Year.a Thank you for your hard work and contribution to present China's stories in a truthful and objective way to the world.a Wish you and your families happiness, great health and auspiciousness! See you in the Year of the Dragon! NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Xi calls for 'close strategic coordination' to face US in talks with Putin Iran Press TV Thursday, 08 February 2024 3:58 PM Chinese President Xi Jinping has told his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin that both countries should employ "close strategic coordination" and firmly stand up against interference by external forces, particularly the United States. In a phone call on Thursday, Xi told Putin that Beijing and Moscow "should closely collaborate strategically, defend the sovereignty, security and development interests of their respective countries, and resolutely oppose interference in internal affairs by external forces," said a readout from Chinese state broadcaster CCTV. The Chinese president said China and Russia should also cultivate new dynamics of cooperation and maintain the stability of the industrial chain and supply chain. Separately, Putin's foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov said both leaders had rejected what they called US interference in the affairs of other countries. According to Ushakov, Xi and Putin said their foreign policy would be aimed at creating "a multipolar, fairer world order." Putin's top advisor said plans for reciprocal visits and personal meetings between Putin and Xi were out of the question for now, but added that they also discussed the situation in Ukraine and the resolution of conflict in West Asia. According to a readout from the Kremlin, Putin, for his part, told Xi that ties between the two countries were at "an unprecedentedly high level." "In discussing the situation in the Asia-Pacific region, the Russian President reaffirmed his principled position on the Taiwan issue, which is to support the 'one China' policy." China has sovereignty over the Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) and under the "One China" policy, almost all world countries recognize that sovereignty. The United States, too, recognizes the Chinese sovereignty over the self-ruled island. However, the US, which has long courted Taipei in an attempt to unnerve Beijing, infuriates China by selling weapons to the self-governed island in violation of its own official policy. Russia has been under harsh sanctions by the US and its allies for the war in Ukraine since February 2022. The West is also highly critical of China for not condemning Moscow's campaign in the ex-Soviet republic. Beijing insists its neutral stance toward the conflict in Ukraine. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hong Kong police vow to hunt exiled activist Agnes Chow 'for life' Canada-based Chow joins a lengthening list of Hong Kong exiles wanted under a crackdown on dissent back home. By Cheryl Tung and Kwong Wing for RFA Cantonese 2024.02.08 -- Hong Kong police have officially listed overseas democracy activist Agnes Chow as a wanted person after she skipped bail and fled to Canada in December, warning they will "pursue her for life," pro-China newspapers and an official police account reported on Wednesday. "No fugitive should imagine they can evade criminal prosecution by absconding or leaving Hong Kong," Andrew Kan, deputy commissioner of the city's national security police, told journalists in comments reported by the Beijing-backed Wen Wei Po and the official Chinese police account on Weibo. "Hong Kong police officially list Agnes Chow as wanted," China's official police account posted on Wednesday. "Unless she surrenders, she will be hunted for the rest of her life." Chow, 27, a prominent democracy activist who has already served a seven-month prison sentence for "illegal assembly" linked to protests outside Hong Kong's police headquarters on June 21, 2019, was out on bail at the time of her departure, for which she obtained a permit to travel from the Hong Kong police. But soon after leaving the city, she announced via her Instagram account that she wasn't going back. She later said she is considering whether to apply for asylum in Canada. Chow, a founding member of the opposition party Demosisto, which dissolved in 2020 when the national security law took effect, had worked alongside jailed activist Joshua Wong in protests and civil disobedience movements dating back to 2012. After serving her first sentence, she was rearrested under the national security law on suspicion of "collusion with foreign forces," then released on bail pending investigation, and subjected to a travel ban. She was forced to go on a patriotic "study trip" to mainland China and kept under surveillance by police, who later allowed to leave the city to study in Canada on condition that she return by the end of 2023. Chow has also spoken out about the impact of that period on her mental health. Bounties offered Chow has become the 14th overseas activist on the government's wanted list, although Kan didn't say whether there is a HK$1 million bounty on her head, as is the case with the other 13. Police offered bounties for information leading to the arrests of eight wanted activists last July, with a further five activists added to the list in December 2023. Several of the wanted activists recently held closed-door meetings with State Department officials in Washington, as part of their campaign for further sanctions on Hong Kong and Chinese officials linked to the suppression of the city's promised freedoms, according to the State Department's X account. "Honored to meet with courageous advocates for Hong Kong's democracy and human rights who've been unjustly targeted for exercising their fundamental freedoms," assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific affairs Daniel Kritenbrink posted on Feb. 5. "We call on Hong Kong authorities to immediately cease all efforts to intimidate people in Hong Kong and around the world, including those who call the U.S. home." U.S.-based activist Frances Hui, who is Policy and Advocacy Coordinator for the Committee for Freedom in Hong Kong Foundation, said she had shared with officials her "personal encounters with CCP's transnational repression, including receiving physical death threats and being spied on by Chinese agencies." She called on Washington to call for the release of specific Hong Kong political prisoners like Jimmy Lai and Joshua Wong, and to consider further sanctions on officials. "The world is counting on the US to stand on the forefront in supporting human rights and democracy, and most importantly, to protect the people living under its roof who have sought refuge from authoritarianism," Hui wrote in a post to her X account. Naturally inclined to emigrate Fellow wanted activist Elmer Yuen, who is working toward setting up a Hong Kong parliament in exile, said he had called for relaxed immigration rules for Hong Kongers seeking to flee the crackdown to the United States. "Now that Hong Kong is like this, naturally everyone is inclined to emigrate," Yuen said. "I want them to relax the rules and allow more Hong Kong people in and make it easier to get a visa." "The safe haven policy has not yet been implemented, and we need to go to Congress to work on that further." Hong Kong police said on Tuesday they have made 290 arrests so far under the national security law, which bans public criticism of the government and has resulted in the mass arrests and trial of dozens of former opposition activists and the trial of pro-democracy media mogul Jimmy Lai. Kan said "national security" would remain at the top of a list of police priorities for 2024, when the city's legislature is expected to pass a second national security law critics say will potentially criminalize more peaceful activities, including making critical or protest-related comments on overseas websites or interviewing exiled activists like Chow. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin called on the United States "not to be a safe haven for criminals," and not to support "anti-China disruptors who flee Hong Kong." "Hong Kong affairs are China's internal affairs and do not require the intervention of any external forces," Wang told a regular news briefing in Beijing on Tuesday. Translated with additional reporting by Luisetta Mudie. 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 February not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China replaces top regulator as it attempts to end stock market rout Beijing is also urging listed companies to improve investor returns. By Xia Xiaohua for RFA Mandarin 2024.02.08 -- Chinese stock markets rose Thursday after Beijing replaced its securities regulator. For the Lunar New Year-shortened week, the CSI300 jumped 5.8% and the Shanghai Index advanced 5%, the biggest weekly gains since November 2022. On Wednesday, the Chinese cabinet appointed a former Shanghai vice mayor and markets veteran Wu Qing as chairman of the China Securities Regulatory Commission, replacing Yi Huiman, in an apparent attempt to bring the stock markets out of a downturn as public outrage grows. Wu, known as the "broker butcher" in the industry for his crackdowns on traders, was previously chairman of the Shanghai Stock Exchange between 2016 and 2017 until he was elevated to vice mayor of Shanghai. He worked with financial regulators, including at the China Securities Regulatory Commission, or CSRC, for more than two decades. The CSRC announced the reshuffle in a statement Wednesday without giving reasons for the change. The move came after the stock market dropped to a five-year low Monday amid a slumping economy. Yi was made chairman of the regulatory body in 2019. Chinese authorities intervened in the market this week by injecting funds to stem a freefall of stocks and flight of outflows. On Tuesday, A shares rebounded after a unit of the sovereign wealth fund publicly pledged its endorsement of the market's valuation and expanded its holdings of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that track the performance of China's benchmark indexes. Separately, media reports said the "national team" - Beijing-charged fund managers - has been in action, pouring money into China's five largest ETFs tracking the CSI 300 Index and the Shanghai Composite Index. They received a net inflow of US$20.2 billion in January, an amount which is over 10 times last year's monthly average. There is still a lot of ground to make up with 3 trillion yuan (US$422 billion) wiped from the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock markets since the end of last year, according to estimates by analysts at the Chung-Hua Institution for Economic Research in Taiwan. The CSRC also held a special meeting on Monday to improve the investment value of listed companies, urging these public firms to proactively increase returns to boost investor confidence. Tactics available in the "toolbox" include share buybacks, major shareholders increasing their stakes, regular dividend payouts, mergers and restructuring, as well as strengthening communications via road shows and briefings. Better tomorrow? China is also talking up the economic environment that experts say is the root of the problem, as the stock market is a gauge of prospects and investors' expectations. The stock market has been roiled by frequent turmoil in the past few years, weighed down by a real estate crisis characterized by defaults and Beijing's crackdown on sectors like technology and private tuition services. "It's now a matter of confidence. A very important issue in the financial market is trust and confidence," said Wang Shiow-Wen, an assistant research fellow at Taiwan's Institute for National Defense and Security Research, in an interview with Radio Free Asia. "Trust means that after I invest my money, you won't eat me up. Confidence means believing that profits can be made in the long run." Wang expects that there will be a point in the short term where investors will sell and cut losses. "So China has been releasing news that their future market is very good, but is that true? I don't know." Cheng Cheng-Ping, a finance professor at the National Yunlin University of Science and Technology in Taiwan, called China's rescue efforts, including the latest measure to curb short-selling, "outrageous" from a Western capital market perspective. "How can any regulatory agency ask for private and listed companies' returns on investment?" Cheng said, pointing out that this should instead be the concern of corporate leaders and shareholders. Furthermore, shareholders and investors won't simply rely on numbers like returns and earnings per share to evaluate a company. "There are other indicators like inventory, raw materials and, overseas markets and emerging technologies. Investors have many considerations when investing, and the overall situation in China is very bad," Cheng said. Translated and additional reporting by RFA staff. Edited by Mike Firn and Taejun Kang. Updated with Chinese stock market data. 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 February not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia, China Must Cooperate Closely to Ensure Security, Oppose External Interference - Xi Sputnik News 20240208 BEIJING (Sputnik) - Russia and China should cooperate closely to ensure security and resolutely oppose any external interference in internal affairs, Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Thursday. "The countries should carry out close strategic cooperation in order to protect their state sovereignty, security and development interests, and resolutely resist interference by external forces in internal affairs," Xi said in a telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, as cited by the state-run China Central Television (CCTV) broadcaster. China is ready to strengthen cooperation with Russia at the international multilateral level and advocate for inclusive economic globalization, Xi added. Xi and Putin agreed to continue close contacts in the new year. Russian-Chinese cooperation in all spheres reached fruitful results last year, Putin said. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China Appoints 'Broker Butcher' in Bid to Boost Struggling Stock Markets By Joyce Huang February 08, 2024 China has replaced the head of its securities watchdog with veteran regulator Wu Qing, known as the "Broker Butcher" for his tough enforcement of trading regulations in the past. Wu's appointment comes as policymakers in China are struggling to stabilize the country's stock markets. State-run Xinhua news agency announced the replacement on Wednesday. Wu previously served as acting vice mayor of China's major financial hub, Shanghai, and as chairman of the Shanghai Stock Exchange. The ousted chairman of the China Securities Regulatory Commission or CSRC, Yi Huiman, was chairman of the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China and appointed to the top job at CSRC in January 2019, tasked with undertaking a spate of sweeping capital markets reforms. The reason for Yi's removal was not announced, but analysts say it was due to his failure to rescue China's stock markets, which have recently hit five-year lows and left institutional and retail investors scrambling to cut their losses. Analysts say China's struggling economy and a lack of government stimulus measures have taken a toll on investor confidence. Francis Lun, CEO of Geo Securities Ltd. in Hong Kong, tells VOA that Wu now has the unenviable task of rescuing China's equities markets. Wu "must do a good job in the stock market, and the stock market must rise," says Lun. "Otherwise, he will not be able to stay on the job." Beijing this month announced high-profile market rescue measures, including lowering the deposit reserve ratio by 0.5 percentage points on February 5, equivalent to releasing one trillion yuan, roughly $140 billion, into the capital market. In response, China's stock markets rallied Tuesday, with the largest one-day gain in two years, after officials talked up additional support for markets. Bloomberg estimates that over the past three years, markets in China and Hong Kong have lost about $6.3 trillion in value since peaks in 2021. The People's Bank of China says the total value of Chinese stocks and bonds held by foreign investors from the end of 2021 until June 2023 dropped from 8 trillion yuan, roughly $1.124 trillion USD, to 6.6 trillion yuan, about $928 billion USD, a net outflow of 18%. Foreign investors have also reportedly sold tens of billions of dollars in China's stocks every month in the past six months. Lun said that if Beijing really wants to pull the market out of the swamp, more substantial rescue measures must be taken. Bloomberg in January reported Chinese authorities were considering a 2 trillion yuan, roughly $281 billion, stabilization fund to rescue equity markets. VOA could not independently confirm such a plan was being considered. "If Beijing really announces the 2 trillion yuan stabilization fund bailout, the stock market will definitely revive for some time," says Lun. "But the local economy and domestic demand must [also] be stimulated. The two must be done at the same time. Otherwise, it would be like setting off fireworks," he says. "They would disappear eventually." Christopher Balding, founder of U.S.-based research group New Kite Data Labs and a former professor at Peking University's HSBC Business School, says usually when the central government sets the tone, companies and the Chinese people will obediently follow it, whether it is the housing market or the stock market. But lately, he says, Beijing's repeated announcements of measures to stabilize the markets have failed to move investors, indicating that the government "has lost all credibility." And China's stock market slump may benefit markets elsewhere, he added. "As the Chinese stock market has gone down, Chinese investors have tried to get into foreign indexes," he says. "So the more the Chinese market goes down, the more it might help the U.S. or the Tokyo or other markets." Balding says the central government's rescue measures have so far been "empty, lacking tangible and concrete policy" while the capital injection is only a drop in the bucket of the total market value. Meanwhile, he says the connection between China's stock markets and global stock markets has been significantly reduced, so China's market crash is unlikely to systemically affect global stocks unless individual markets or listed companies have a certain degree of exposure to China. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell told the CBS program 60 Minutes on February 1, "As long as what happens in China doesn't lead to significant disruptions in the economy or the financial system, then the implications for the United States a we may feel them a bit, but they shouldn't be that large." After the news of Yi's removal Wednesday, Reuters reported the FTSE China A50 Index Futures rose by a slight 0.2%, as of 1027 GMT, while Hong Kong's Hang Seng futures showed little change. Adrianna Zhang contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Activists Condemn China's Jailing of Feminist, Increased Crackdown on Dissent By William Yang February 08, 2024 Some activists and analysts are saying Monday's sentencing of a prominent Chinese feminist activist to more than three years in jail shows Beijing's increasing retaliation against those closely associated with detained activists. A court in China's eastern province of Shandong Monday sentenced Li Qiaochu to three years and eight months on the charge of "incitement to subvert state power." In the judgment, the court accused Li of being "deeply influenced" by detained activist Xu Zhiyong, who is Li's boyfriend and was sentenced to 14 years in jail on the charge of "subversion of state power" last April. "This is a typical case of how someone who is closely associated with a detained activist can get into trouble for simply expressing concerns about their detained partner or friend," Patrick Poon, a visiting researcher at the University of Tokyo, told VOA by phone. He said the lengthy jail sentence that Li received shows the domestic environment in China has become very restrictive. "Her case shows that speaking up for other human rights defenders in China has now become a red line in the Chinese government's eyes," he said. Some activists say the heavy sentence that Li received is a clear retaliation for her attempt to talk about the torture that Xu allegedly experienced in detention. "The authorities are purely retaliating against Li for exercising her basic rights and freedom of speech," Luo Shengchun, the wife of detained human rights lawyer Ding Jiaxi, told VOA by phone. Since the ruling came after a closed-door trial last month, Luo characterized the length of the jail sentence as "unjust and despicable." "I originally thought the authorities may consider allowing Li to go home and celebrate Chinese New Year with her family but they ended up handing her an outcome that is very serious," she said. Li, who was a long-time labor rights and feminist activist, has been in detention since February 2021. Although the time she has already spent in custody will count toward her sentence, Luo says she is still concerned about Li's mental health. Li suffers from depression and the treatment that she received during detention has caused hallucinations, Luo said. "Her parents applied for bail 10 times but the Chinese authorities denied all of their applications," she said, adding that Li was "in a very bad state" when her family members briefly saw her during the court proceeding on February 5. Apart from Li, her boyfriend Xu Zhiyong and Luo's husband, Ding Jiaxi, have both been sentenced to more than 10 years in jail for participating in a private gathering in the Chinese city of Xiamen in December 2019. Both been denied permission to meet with their lawyers or family members for several months. "Their family members in China are facing multiple threats and the authorities continue to postpone their meetings with lawyers," Luo told VOA. "The authorities have threatened Xu and Ding's family members in China not to share any information about their cases with the outside world." Some researchers see the decision by Chinese authorities to target those associated with detained activists and deny them the right to meet with lawyers or family members as part of a broader effort to increase pressure on activists. "In the past, the family members and friends of Chinese human rights defenders could still advocate for them, but now, these people are all facing an immense amount of pressure for trying to speak up for the detained activists," Yaqiu Wang, research director for China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan at Freedom House, told VOA by phone. In her view, the Chinese government hopes to limit the influence of detained activists by cutting off their communication with the outside world. "When Nobel laureate Liu Xiaobo was sentenced to 12 years, many people still knew what he had achieved despite Chinese authorities' crackdown on him," Wang said. "But nowadays, the Chinese government is trying their best to limit the influence of activists by cutting off all communication channels." Apart from Li, several human rights activists in detention and their family members are still awaiting judgments from Chinese courts . Prominent human rights lawyer Yu Wensheng and his wife Xu Yan were arrested by police in April on their way to meet with European diplomats. On the day Ding and Xu were sentenced to more than 10 years in jail, Yu condemned the Chinese authorities' decision on X (Twitter at the time), and a day before his arrest, Yu wrote on Twitter, that local police "visited" him because of the tweet. As it becomes much more difficult for people in China advocate for detained human rights activists, Poon in Tokyo said it is important for outsiders to raise concerns about these cases. "The only chance for detained activists to receive better treatment in prison is if the international community or overseas activists can bring attention to their cases," he told VOA. On the day that the court in Shandong announced judgment on Li's case, the EU mission to China urged Chinese authorities to release her due to her deteriorating health conditions. "Li suffers from physical and mental problems and is in urgent need of long-term treatment," the mission wrote on its official Weibo account. The Chinese Embassy in Washington did not respond to a request for comment from VOA regarding Li's sentence or concerns the EU raised on Weibo. There has been no mention of the case in state media. Since some activists continue to face government surveillance and harassment after being released from jail, Luo said she worries that Li will still face some form of house arrest after she is released later this year. She expressed hope that outside pressure will force Chinese authorities to "respect some basic legal principles and let Li live a life free from harassment and surveillance with her parents." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address North Korea ends all economic cooperation with South: state media But Seoul expects no swift impact on inter-Korean relations. By Taejun Kang for RFA 2024.02.08 -- Seoul is not considering reciprocal actions towards North Korea's recent decision to annul all economic agreements with South Korea, as no swift impact on inter-Korean relations is expected, government sources in the South said. North Korea's state-run Korean Central News Agency reported on Thursday that Pyongyang has abolished laws on inter-Korean economic cooperation, including regulations on the special zone for international tours of Mount Kumgang and those for enforcing all agreements. But an official at the South's Ministry of Unification told local reporters on Thursday that "there are no ongoing inter-Korean cooperations anyway," and therefore, "there are no imminent measures planned by [the South Korean] government," Yonhap News Agency reported. The North's move was "expected," said the official, adding that "it would only result in further isolation of Pyongyang." As of Thursday, a total of 258 agreements have been signed between the two Koreas, and Seoul sees 112 of them, including 28 joint press releases, as economic agreements, according to the unification ministry. They include food loans, investment guarantees, inter-Korean commercial arbitration, railway and road connections, construction and operation of the Kaesong Industrial Complex, tourism in Mount Kumgang, inter-Korean fisheries cooperation, inter-Korean agricultural cooperation, inter-Korean shipping, cooperation in light industry and underground resource development, and cooperation in healthcare and environmental protection. It is currently unclear which of these agreements have been scrapped, as North Korea has not made them public. The move comes less than a month after Pyongyang decided to abolish agencies handling inter-Korean affairs, such as the National Committee for the Peaceful Reunification of the Fatherland, an agency in charge of national economic cooperation, and an agency handling the Mount Kumgang tour project. The 2005 law on inter-Korean economic cooperation provides a basic framework for such collaboration, whereas the 2011 law concerning the special zone in Mount Kumgang outlines specifics regarding investments in the area by South Korean and international entities. Edited by Elaine Chan and Mike Firn. Copyright 1998-2016, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content February not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un Pays Congratulatory Visit to Ministry of National Defence on Day of Army Founding Korean Central News Agency of DPRK Pyongyang, February 9 (KCNA) -- The DPRK significantly celebrates the founding anniversary of the heroic Korean People's Army (KPA) which has glorified its noble name as the staunch defender of the cause of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) and genuine people's army for over 70 years, defending the lifeline of Juche revolution which won victory after victory under the leadership of the great Party and firmly supporting the invincibility and mightiness of our state. Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, paid a congratulatory visit to the DPRK Ministry of National Defence on the occasion of the 76th founding anniversary of the KPA. He was accompanied by his respected daughter. He was also accompanied by secretaries of the Central Committee of the WPK. The hearts of the service personnel were full of great excitement, joy, boundless glory and happiness upon having the honor to meet the great father for whom they longed in the days of loyal and honorable service in the army on their significant founding anniversary. The respected Comrade Kim Jong Un arrived at the Ministry of National Defence Thursday afternoon. The service personnel of the People's Army raised stormy cheers, looking up to Kim Jong Un , the symbol of mightiness and heroism of Juche Korea and the representative of the great dignity and brilliant honor, who has put the prestige of our great state on the highest stage in the century and ushered in a new era full of unprecedented miracles and great changes in which the people's ideal is fully realized, with his far-sighted strategy, steel-strong courage and pluck and tireless efforts and devotion. A ceremony of greeting Kim Jong Un , supreme commander of the armed forces of the Republic, took place. After receiving a salute from the head of the guard of honor of the KPA, he reviewed the guard of honor and the glorious colors of the three services. He was presented with fragrant bouquets by KPA officers. Major commanding officers of the KPA including Kang Sun Nam, Jong Kyong Thaek and Ri Yong Gil and the commanders of the large combined units greeted him in the humblest reverence. There took place a march-past of the guard of honor of the KPA. Kim Jong Un had a photo taken with the KPA generals to be recorded in the army-building history. The commanding officers of the army paid the highest tribute to the great brilliant commander who has developed the KPA into the powerful and matchless revolutionary armed forces and the patriotic vanguard which reliably guarantee the defence of the sovereignty and enhancement of the prestige of the country and has put them forward to be the vanguard of the times with his outstanding army-building idea and energetic leadership. Kim Jong Un made a significant speech in congratulation of the heroic KPA officers and men on the Day of Army Founding. Paying his noble respects to the heroic development of the KPA which has led the great turn in building a prosperous country with a powerful army while firmly defending the security and interests of the country and people and the idea and cause of the Party, always loyal to the sacred mission entrusted by the times and history for 76 years after its foundation, he extended warm congratulations of the army building day to the service personnel of the entire army on behalf of the Party Central Committee, the government of the Republic and all people across the country. The history of the struggle of our army has recorded the truth that only the state and people advancing by putting up an army in the van of the revolution can achieve unwavering and steady development and prosperity despite any challenges and crisis, he said, highly praising the great feats of the revolutionary armed forces firmly defending the sacred sovereignty of the country and the honor of the people with their steadfast revolutionary faith, transparent patriotic spirit, matchless heroism and mettle and devoted service. He declared that the WPK, which has an absolute mission before the country and people, would bring earlier the rosy future of the DPRK, always relying on the bravery and loyalty of the revolutionary armed forces in the future, too, and ardently called upon the service personnel of the entire army to strive for the eternal prosperity of the country and the well-being of the people with one mind, full of confidence in and optimism about the great new victory. The participants were deeply moved by his passionate speech full of ardent feelings and trust in the service personnel of the People's Army who regard loyalty to the Party, government and people as their foremost lifeblood and supreme honor, devotedly defend the lineage of the Juche revolution and the idea and cause of the WPK and reliably guarantee the existence and development of the DPRK and happiness of the people. When Kim Jong Un finished his speech, stormy cheers of "hurrah!" resounded in the sky of February. All the participants loudly shouted the slogans of " Kim Jong Un " and "Devotedly defence", full of ardent enthusiasm to share the idea, intention and destiny with the Party Central Committee forever and to fully display the might and mettle of the powerful revolutionary army for eternal peace on this land and prosperity and happiness of posterity, cherishing the trust of the great brilliant commander as the greatest honor. Kim Jong Un 's congratulatory visit to the Ministry of National Defence which was made on the Day of Army Founding shining as the pride of the Party, state and people, will be brilliantly recorded in the history as an occasion in which the invincible heroic KPA, which is great in its foundation and succession, gives full play to its prestige in the grandiose course of building a dignified and prosperous socialist power and redoubles its noble mission and efforts to lead a new era of the Juche revolution under the leadership of the Party Central Committee. -0- NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address KPA Founding Anniversary Marked Korean Central News Agency of DPRK Pyongyang, February 8 (KCNA) -- Leading newspapers of the DPRK on Thursday dedicate editorials to the 76th founding anniversary of the Korean People's Army (KPA). The papers say that February 8, Juche 37 (1948) is an eventful day when an important landmark was recorded in the history of the building of the revolutionary armed forces and the history of the country. Thanks to this historic day, the DPRK emerged a dignified country with its own strong armed guarantee and the Korean people could dynamically advance the revolution and construction by relying on their powerful arms, Rodong Sinmun says, and goes on: The appearance of our powerful state is reflected in the ever-victorious Korean People's Army and the names of the service personnel of the KPA are shining at the height of the dignity of our people. Recorded in the history of the Juche-oriented army building are the most sincere answers to our revolution, state and future. As our army has always remained faithful to its bounden mission at all the sites of the struggle for the country and the people, sharing the destiny with the Party from the first period of its founding, the history of building our prosperous country have been recorded with legendary miracles and great victory and the ideal pictured by our people as their faith have been translated into reality. The heroic KPA is ushering in a golden age of its development thanks to the outstanding military idea and extraordinary leadership of the respected Comrade Kim Jong Un . Minju Joson says that the DPRK will be infinitely powerful and prosperous as long as there are the invincible revolutionary armed forces under the leadership of Kim Jong Un , the most brilliant commander. -0- NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The Bioenergy Association of Ukraine (UABIO) insists on the temporary suspension for biogas and biomass stations of the energy regulator NEURC resolution No. 178 dated January 24 on the conclusion of new contracts with the state-owned enterprise Guaranteed Buyer to preserve its obligations to purchase green electricity, since its standards cannot be fulfilled, and the industry faces bankruptcy because of this, said the head of the association, Heorhiy Heletukha. "Bio-TPPs and bio-CHPPs are technically unable to fulfill the requirements of the resolution. To conclude a new agreement with Guaranteed Buyer, you need to enter into an agreement with Ukrenergo for a load reduction service. But bioenergy plants cannot provide such a service to Ukrenergo due to nature, this is technically impossible," Heletukha said in a quick interview with Interfax-Ukraine. He explained that, for example, biogas plants need heat to maintain the reaction temperature, and if the production of electricity is stopped at the command of the dispatcher, the heat generation also stops, as a result of which the bacteria will die and the entire process will be destroyed. Thermal power plants using solid biomass, according to him, also have their own problems if a reduction in power is required, they will not be able to stop the combustion in the boiler and will be forced to simply release the produced steam into the air. Heletukha said that compensation for this is not provided, which will incur large additional costs for producers. "In general, I have never heard of ideas about balancing the energy system with biomass and biogas plants," the industry representative said. He said that in the two days that renewable energy producers had to sign new contracts with Guaranteed Buyer to maintain its obligations to purchase electricity at the feed-in tariff, such contracts were signed by approximately no more than 5% of bioenergy companies. In total, according to his data, as of January 24 in Ukraine there were 69 biogas power plants with a total capacity of 158.7 MWE and 23 biomass power plants with a total capacity of 154.2 MWE. At the same time, Heletukha expressed the opinion that the signatories did this solely in the hope that Ukrenergo, understanding the problem, would simply not give commands for unloading. In addition, as the head of UABIO noted, signing contracts with Ukrenergo requires the installation of telemetry (metering equipment), which most companies also do not have, since it is impossible to physically install it in two days, and before the adoption of the resolution there was no such requirement. In this regard, UABIO that the regulation for bioenergy plants is supended for three months, during this time to exclude the requirement for them to provide load reduction services, and also to provide for the enrollment and payment of electricity volumes at a feed-in tariff for such plants from January 27. During this time, the plants will also install telemetry, Heletukha assured, adding that, for example, Smilaenergopromtrans calculated its cost at approximately UAH 300,000. At the same time, he said that "NEURC recognizes the problem, but does not yet know how to solve it." Meanwhile, UABIO calculated that losses, in particular, for biogas plants due to the fact that Guaranteed Buyer, since January 27, cannot count the exhausted resource of those producers who have not signed new contracts with it, could amount to more than UAH 16 million per day. "Let's calculate the biogas industry as a whole. Its capacity is 150 MW. We multiply by 0.75, because we consider our own needs and the instability of generation, and by 24 hours. This is approximately 2,700 MWh per day. With an average tariff of UAH 4.99 per kWh, that's UAH 16.2 million per day including VAT," the head of the association said, sharing his calculations. He also added that, for example, for the Hals-Agro company, losses amount to UAH 1.5 million per day, direct losses due to the lack of electricity generation at Smilaenergopromtrans amount to UAH 500,000-550,000 per day. At the same time, he said that this enterprise, having a gas boiler, switched to producing heat from gas provided by NJSC Naftogaz Ukrainy under PSO, and, for example, the Pereyaslivska bio-thermal power plant stopped producing electricity. "But almost the entire bioenergy sector is now running idle, with the exception of a few companies that managed to conclude contracts before January 27, and their electricity is taken into account and paid for. But how can others work and not receive money? How long will they last? This is a threat to the industry's bankruptcy," the head of UABIO said. Guaranteed Buyer itself reported on its website that in two days of January 2024 - from 00:01 on January 25 to 23:59 on January 26, it concluded 1,428 agreements with electricity producers from renewable energy sources: 716 additional agreements as part of the alignment of purchase agreements sales of electricity at a feed-in tariff in accordance with the standard form of the contract in the new edition and 712 agreements on participation in its balancing group. He said that by the end of the day on January 26, 215 participants in the state-owned enterprise's balancing group found themselves in a situation where, due to the lack of an agreement on the provision of load reduction services concluded with Ukrenergo, Guaranteed Buyer's obligations to sell and buy electricity from such participants were suspended. They said that the existence of an agreement with Ukrenergo is a new requirement for concluding an agreement for participation in Guaranteed Buyer's balancing group, provided for by regulatory decree No. 178 dated January 24, 2024 and the norms of the law on green transformation 3220-IX dated June 30, 2023. The company continues the contractual campaign with those renewable energy producers who are gradually concluding contracts with Ukrenergo, Guaranteed Buyer added. As of the end of the day on February 5, Guaranteed Buyer had concluded agreements for participation in his balancing group with 801 participants (there are more than 920 in total). Germany Sends Frigate for Possible Participation in EU Red Sea Mission Sputnik News 20240208 BERLIN (Sputnik) - Germany is sending its frigate Hessen with a crew of 240 Bundeswehr soldiers on Thursday for its expected participation in a European Union naval mission in the Red Sea to protect merchant ships from attacks by Yemen's Houthis, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said. In late January, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said he expected a decision to launch an EU maritime mission in the Red Sea at a meeting of the bloc's foreign ministers on February 19. "The Hessen frigate is departing today. Together with numerous EU partners, we want to immediately support the ASPIDES operation if the EU and the Bundestag decide on a mandate in the Red Sea within this month," the German Defense Ministry quoted Pistorius on X as saying. The ship also carries a team of two Sea Lynx helicopters, as well as a medical team, marines and a chaplain. The 143-meter-long (469-foot-long) frigate is equipped with anti-aircraft missiles and is specifically designed for escort and surveillance. According to the Bundeswehr, it can monitor airspace over an area the size of the entire North Sea with a special radar. The anti-aircraft missiles can reach targets more than 160 kilometers (99 miles) away. The Ansar Allah movement, also known as the Houthis, which controls much of Yemen's Red Sea coast, has previously warned of its intention to attack any ships linked to Israel, calling on other countries to recall their crews and stay away from them at sea. A number of shipping companies have decided to suspend traffic through the Red Sea. The Houthis have previously said that their actions in the Red Sea are aimed at helping the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, they claimed that they do not interfere with freedom of navigation in the region. Borrel emphasized that the EU mission will not participate in actions against the Houthis, but will only deal with ensuring the safety of navigation. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Transcript of Weekly Media Briefing by the Official Spokesperson (February 08, 2024) India - Ministry of External Affairs February 08, 2024 Shri Randhir Jaiswal, Official Spokesperson: Good afternoon friends, a warm welcome to all of you. Today we issued two Press Releases. One was in regard to the visit of External Affairs Minister to Perth for Indian Ocean Conference, that is on 9th and 10th. Also, we gave you a read-out of Foreign Secretary's visit to Japan. I hope you have seen both the Press Releases. With that I would like to open the floor for questions. So, we can start here. Manish: Main Manish Jha hoon TV9 Bharatvarsh se. Mera sawal hai ki aaj Pakistan mai chunav ho rahe hain aur nischit taur par Bharat sarakar uspar najar rakh rahi hai. Toh kis tarah ka andesha aapko lag raha hai ki is chunav ke baad Bharat aur Pakistan ke rishte mai koi parivartan hone ki koi gunjaesh hai? [Question in Hindi: Approximate translation] I am Manish Jha from TV9 Bharatvarsh. My question is that elections are being held in Pakistan today and the Indian government is definitely keeping an eye on it. What apprehensions do you have, that is there a possibility of change in India-Pakistan relations after these elections? Umashankar: Umashankar Singh NDTV se. Manish se juda mera sawal hai ki ye bataya ja raha hai ki Nawaj Sharif Pradhan Mantri banenge. Aur unhone apne manifesto mai likha hai ki 370 wapis bahaal ho tabhi Bharat ke sath rishte behtar honge. Toh is tarah ki sharton ko lekar kya aapko unki sarkar aane ke baad, hypothetical question hain thoda, lekin jo wahan se jankari aa rahi hai ki Nawaj Sharif hi PM banenge; toh kya in sharton ke sath Bharat batchit aage badhana chahega? [Question in Hindi: Approximate translation] Umashankar Singh from NDTV. My question is related to Manish's...it's being said that Nawaz Sharif will become the Prime Minister. And he has mentioned in his manifesto that relations with India will improve, only if Article 370 is reinstated. So with such conditions...after he forms the government, though the question is a little hypothetical, but considering the information coming from there that Nawaz Sharif is going to be the PM; will India be willing to move the talks forward with such conditions? Madhurendra: Sir mera sawaal Myanmar ko lekar hai. Jaisa ki advisory India ka hai ki Rakhine State ki taraf na jaye. Iske alawa Home Ministry ne jo free movement tha, usko bhi ban kar diya, fencing ki bhi baat ho rahi hai. Toh kis tarah se Bharat aur Myanmar ke sambandh aage badh rahe hain? Aur jo is waqt hum steps le rahe hain uska kya asar Bharat aur Myanmar ke sambandho par padega? [Question in Hindi: Approximate translation] Sir, my question is regarding Myanmar. India has issued an advisory for not travelling to Rakhine State. Also, the Home Ministry has suspended the previously allowed free movement, there's also talk of fencing. So, how are the relations between India and Myanmar progressing? And what impact will the steps we are taking at the moment, have on relations between India and Myanmar? Rishabh: Sir, Rishabh from Times Now. Sir, I just wanted to have a follow up on Manish Sir's question, that in the morning, just minutes before the polling began in Pakistan, the internet and mobile services were snapped. So, how does India see that, A. And B, when it comes to the FMR, the Free Movement Regime with Myanmar, the Home Minister has announced that India is immediately suspending the FMR. Is it unilateral or has it been discussed with Myanmar and it's bilateral? Shri Randhir Jaiswal, Official Spokesperson: Any more questions related to Myanmar and Pakistan, if we can club them. Nayanima: Nayanima from ABP Live. The Home Minister has said that MEA has already started the process of scrapping the FMR. What is the process? How long will it take, if you can give certain timelines? Thank you. Sudhi: Sir, Sudhi Ranjan from Bloomberg. On the FMR, has Government of India informed Myanmar also? Were there any talks and at what level, if at all, this was informed, Sir? Shri Randhir Jaiswal, Official Spokesperson: Manish ji aapka sawal aur kahi ek aur sathiyon ka sawal Pakistan ko lekar, toh Pakistan mai jaise ki aap jaante hain ki aaj wahan chunav ho rahe hain. Pakistan ke chunav par hum log kuch tippani karna nahi chaahte, na hi hum log tippani karna chahte hain wahan par aur jo vyavyastha, sthiti jo bani hui hai. [Answer in Hindi: Approximate translation] Manish ji, your question and other companions' questions regarding Pakistan, as you are aware, elections are being held in Pakistan today. We do not want to comment on Pakistan's elections, nor do we want to comment on the situation that exists there. Dusra sawal raha Myanmar ko lekar. Myanmar mai aapne dekha hoga ki wahan par border par ek gambhir sthiti si bani hui hai. Myanmar ke mudde pe, fencing ke mudde pe, FMR, Free Movement Regime ke mudde pe, humare mananiya Home Minister, Grih Mantri ne apni tippani di hai, apne statements rakhe hain, usko aap log dekhain, usse jyada main kuch nahi kehna chahta hoon. [Answer in Hindi: Approximate translation] The second question is regarding Myanmar. In Mynamar, you may have seen that a critical situation has arisen along the border there. Regarding the issues in Myanmar, on the issue of fencing, and on the issue of the FMR, Free Movement Regime; our honorable Home Minister has made his comments, he has made his statements, you can see them, I don't want to say anything more than that. Madhurendra aapne sawal Rakhine pe bhi kiya tha. Rakhine state Myanmar mai, wahan par sthiti thodi chintajanak hai, jahan tak suraksha ka baat hai. Aur hum logon ne kal ek advisory nikala tha, jo wahan par hamare nagrik hain unko hum keh rahe hain ki aap wahan se nikal jaye, aur jo hamare nagrik jo wahan jana chahte hain unse hamari ye gujarish hain ki aap log wahan pe na jaye, kyuki wahan ki sthiti najuk hai. Toh ye raha Rakhine ke mudde pe aur Myanmar ke mudde par. [Answer in Hindi: Approximate translation] Madhurendra, you had asked about Rakhine. The situation in Rakhine State of Myanmar, is deeply concerning, in terms of security. And we had issued an advisory yesterday, urging our citizens there to leave; and for those who want to go there, we request them not to go, because the situation there is critical. So, this is our position on the topic concerning Rakhine and Myanmar. Speaker: Sir, how many Indians are there? Shri Randhir Jaiswal, Official Spokesperson: I don't have exact number, but we do have a Consulate in Sittwe, as you know. The security situation will have an impact on our Consulate as well. We are looking at the situation and we will see how best to deal with it. Abhishek: Hi Sir, Abhishek this side from CNN News18. My question is regarding Canadian government's latest stance on inquiry to foreign intelligence interference, that is going to scrutinize India's role in that. Public inquiry into Foreign Interference by the Federal Electoral Processes and Democratic institutions has announced that it has requested the Canadian government to provide information related to the Indian government's role in the elections in Canada. Even some of the Canadian lawmakers have also raised the issue. So, do you have any comment on that? Rishikesh: Sir, Rishikesh this side from PTI. Despite border tension, bilateral trade between India and China reached over $120 billion which is much higher than 2022. Can we still argue that ties between the two countries is normalized? Dhairya Maheshwari: Sir, Dhairya Maheshwari from Sputnik India. My question is regarding the BRICS, Sherpa and Sous-Sherpa meeting that took place in Moscow last week. The Russian Foreign Minister said that the Western countries are trying to impose the Ukrainian peace formula on other nations. Now, India has also attended several meetings, including one on Copenhagen format in Davos last week. So what's India's stance on the Ukrainian peace formula, Sir? Thank you. Kadambini: Kadambini Sharma from NDTV. Sir US mai January se lekar ab tak, ek Indian-American sahit, saat chhatron ki maut hui hai, alag alag wahaj rahi hain. Isko lekar halaki Consulate ne aur dutawas ne issue kiye hain statements, lekin kya isko lekar koi aur bhi baat hui hai, ya universities se kuch kaha gaya hai? [Question in Hindi: Approximate translation] Kadambini Sharma from NDTV. Sir, since January, seven students, including an Indian-American, have died in the US due to different reasons. Though the Consulates and the Embassy have issued statements regarding this, but have there been any other discussions or has anything been conveyed to the universities on this matter? Shri Randhir Jaiswal, Official Spokesperson: Let me answer these questions and then we will come back. Regarding your question, Abhishek, we have seen media reports about Canadian Commission enquiring into foreign interference and there have been some related developments as well. We strongly reject all such baseless allegations of Indian interference in Canadian elections. It is not Government of India's policy to interfere in democratic processes of other countries. In fact, quite on the reverse, it is Canada which has been interfering in our internal affairs. We have been raising this issue regularly with them. We continue to call on Canada to take effective measures to address our core concerns. Rishikesh, your question was regarding trade with China. On India-China relations, we have said this several times in our press engagement. Our External Affairs Minister has also conveyed our views. We continue to engage with China on our core issues, that is, peace and tranquility on the border. That is also how we take forward the resolution of problems that we have in the Western sector on the Line of Actual Control. We do have engagements at the Military to Military level and at the diplomatic level and that is where things stand. Kadambini aapka sawal chhatron ke bare mai tha. Mei aapko pahle ye bata doon ki jo wahan par durghatna hue hain, very unfortunate, usmai se is saal jo paanch durghatna hue hain, usmai se do bacche jo hai, do student hai, woh hamare bhartiya nagrik hain. Ye do bhartiya nagrik, ek jo Vivek Saini jinki maut Georgia mai hui, wahan par jinhone unpe attack kiya tha unko giraftar kar liya gaya hai. Dusre jo Indian student hain unki maut, Cincinnati ke student the, wahan par hui hai. Wahan par jo unke local authorities ne bataya hai ki ismai koi foul play nahi hai. Toh ye do jo nagrik jo hamare chhatr hai, jinki dukhad maut hui hai. Uske alawa jo teen aur log hain woh America ke nagrik hain, toh ye baat aap log samjhe, ki woh American nagrik hain, aur in teeno ghatnaon mai bhi medical reports jo abhi tak aaye nahi hain. Wahan par aapko pata hoga ki is tarah ki jab durghatna hoti hain, toh medical reports aane mai time lagta hai aur medical reports bhi wahan par kyuki privacy ke is prakar ke laws hain, woh sabko nahi batate hain. Aur main aapko keh sakta hoon ki in teeno mamlon mai bhi koi foul play nahi hain. Abhi preliminary unka report aaya hai, pura report nahi aaya hai. Ek baar aa jaane ke baad aapko pata chal jayega. Lekin meri aapse gujarish ye hai ki aap ye jarur dekhain ki ismai koi interconnectedness nahi hain, they are not related. Do hamare chhatr hain jinka dehant hua hain. [Answer in Hindi: Approximate translation] Kadambini, your question was about the students. First, let me tell you that the incidents that have occurred there are very unfortunate. Out of the five incidents that have occurred this year, two students are Indian citizens. One is Vivek Saini, who died in Georgia, and the person who had attacked him has been arrested. The other Indian was a student in Cincinnati, where his death occurred. The local authorities there have informed us that there is no foul play involved. So, these are the two citizens, our students, who have had a tragic death. The other three individuals are American citizens. So you understand here, that they are American citizens, and in these three incidents as well, medical reports have not been received yet. As you may know, when such incidents occur there, medical reports take time; and because of the privacy laws there, medical reports are not disclosed to everyone. And I can tell you that there is no foul play in these three cases as well. The preliminary report has come, but the full report has not arrived yet. Once the report is received, you will get to know it. But I request you to see, that there is no interconnectedness here, they are not related. Our two students have passed away. Speaker 2: Could you please repeat it in English. Shri Randhir Jaiswal, Official Spokesperson: So, you know, there are five Indian students who have died, that also includes students from the diaspora. Of these five deaths, two people are Indian nationals and the rest three are of Indian origin. They are US nationals. So that, you must take into account. The two Indian nationals who have died, one was the case of Vivek Saini who passed away in a very unfortunate manner. He was trying to give food to this person who attacked him. The culprit has been arrested and the local authorities are investigating the matter and taking it forward. The second case of an Indian student in the University of Cincinnati, he passed away also. There is no foul play. This is what the preliminary report says. No foul play in that particular case as well. But we await the medical report. The other three deaths that have happened are those of people of Indian origin who are US nationals. So, this is what I want to convey to you. Speaker 3: (inaudible). Shri Randhir Jaiswal, Official Spokesperson: We are in touch with local authorities there, in the cases of Indian nationals. As also our Consulate and our Mission, they are in touch with family members. They are also in touch with the students. For example, the student who was robbed in Chicago, we are in touch with him, his family members here. And we are trying to support in the best possible manner. Rishabh: Sir, Rishabh again from Times Now. Sir, Hyderabad resident Mazhar Ali was attacked by four robbed men. His wife, Rubika has also written to the External Affairs Ministry for expediting her emergency Visa. What's the status and what are the requests that MEA has received from the family? Shri Randhir Jaiswal, Official Spokesperson: As I told you, Rishabh, the Indian Consulate in Chicago is in touch with both, the family as also Mr. Ali. He is a student there. We are trying to see how best to help him with medical aid, also to ensure his well-being. I understand that the local police has registered a case and the Consulate is there to provide all possible support. Dhairya, your question was regarding Ukraine and Russia. As you know, our position on the war is very clear where we are. We want that there be dialogue and conversation and diplomacy. That is the best route forward. Our leaders have articulated our position very well on several accounts. So that is where it is. We also provided our support to...humanitarian support to Ukraine. And we continue to call on the parties to come forward to dialogue and discussion and take things forward. That is the best route for resolving problems. Yeshi: This is Yeshi Seli from The New Indian Express. My question is on Maldives. The second core level meeting between Maldives and India happened in Delhi recently. MEA issued a statement saying it is work under process, while the Maldivian side told that there is going to be replacement. Can you please clarify what that means, what does replacement of troops mean? And also, President Muizzu said that Indian troops are going to be withdrawn, he said in his Presidential address two days back. So can you let us know what exactly is happening? Pia: Pia with the Print. Sir, the Bangladesh Foreign Minister is in town and this morning he praised India's decision to fence its border with Myanmar. He said this is a good move and especially because major insurgency issues emanate from Myanmar, that is what he said. Was this discussed during his meeting with EAM Jaishankar? I think that took place yesterday. Was this issue raised during that meeting? Manohar: This is Manohar Manoj from Economy India. My question is also related to Maldives. Since budget has been reduced, is there any explanation on behalf of your Ministry why this budget has been reduced and what is the... any breakup of this aid to Maldives? Vishal: Sir, main Vishal Pandey hoon Zee News se. Pradhan Mantri Narendra Modi ke prastavit UAE daure ke baare mai kya jankari hai, kya karyakram rehne wala hai Abu Dhabi mai? [Question in Hindi: Approximate translation] Sir, I am Vishal Pandey from Zee News. What information do we have about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's proposed visit to the UAE? What programs are scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi? Neeraj: Sir main Neeraj Dubey Prabhasakshi se. Sir, America mai Rashtrapati pad ki daud mai shamil Republican, Nikki Haley kaha hai ki Bharat America se acche sambandh chahta hi nahi hai, isliye woh Russia se bahot karibi sambandh banaye hue hai, is par hamari koi pratikriya rahegi Sir? [Question in Hindi: Approximate translation] Sir, I am Neeraj Dubey from Prabhasakshi. Sir, Republican Nikki Haley, who is in the race for the post of President of the USA, has said that India does not want good relations with America, which is why they have maintained very close relations with Russia. Will there be any reaction from us on this, Sir? Shri Randhir Jaiswal, Official Spokesperson: Yeshi, coming to your question regarding Maldives. See, what we had to say, we put it forward in our Press Release of 2nd February. You would have seen that. This was done after the second Core Group meeting, high level Core Group meeting and we also said the third Core Group meeting will be subsequently held. I would request you to refer to that. Also, I would like to say the present personnel would be replaced by competent Indian technical personnel. This is what I have to say. Yeshi: (inaudible). Shri Randhir Jaiswal, Official Spokesperson: So technical...competent technical personnel, Indian technical personnel that is. Pia regarding your question on Bangladeshi Foreign Minister, he is here. He had yesterday, a conversation with External Affairs Minister. He also met with the National Security Advisor. We have a read out which we gave to you on what conversation happened between External Affairs Minister and Bangladesh Foreign Minister. We talked about development partnership, we talked about defence and security. We also talked about several other aspects of our engagement; economy, trade, people to people; also, as to how both the countries can synergize their efforts as we move forward, we on Viksit Bharat 2047, and Bangladesh on their route of Smart Bangladesh 2041. On the question of Myanmar, our Home Minister has spoken. I would not like to comment anything further on that. I would refer you to all that he's spoken on both the issues, on FMR and also on fencing. We have given you a read-out of what transpired in the meeting. So I would request you that if you could refer to that, that is where we are. Manohar, you asked a question about Maldives and budget. There are a lot of conflicting ways in which people are interpreting this budgetary allocation. I saw some media report which said the budgetary allocation from Maldives has gone up. Others have said the budgetary allocation from Maldives has gone down. See, what happens is that a certain amount of money is allocated. And thereafter, there's a phase for revision. During that phase of revision, the new proposals are considered. So you would actually see that budget for Maldives, this time what has been given, is 779 crores, as against 600 crores which was projected earlier. So it has actually gone up. The new figure that you say, they will also be revised once we have more details, more clarity on what sort of forward movement is happening. So I would say that we remain an important development partner, committed development partner, for Maldives. Vishal aapka sawal UAE ke sambandh mai hai, UAE ki yatra hone wali hai, jald hi aapko uske baare mai hum log khabar karenge, kya kuch wahan hone wala hai, kya program rahega. Aapko nyauta milega jald hi, isi kamre mai ek press warta hogi. Toh main aapko aamantrit karta hoon, jald hi aapko pata chal jayega uske bare mai. [Answer in Hindi: Approximate translation] Vishal, your question regarding UAE, there will be a visit to UAE, and soon we will inform you about it...what will happen there, what programs will be there. You will receive an invitation soon, for a press briefing in this very room. So I invite you, you will get the information about it soon. Neeraj, your question was regarding...what's happening in the United States. These are comments which are made in the course of developments there, etc. We would not like to comment on those issues. Chandrakala: Chandrakala this side from ETV Bharat. Sir my question is related to the Greek Prime Minister's visit to India. He'll be here for the Raisina dialogue. So just wanted to know how is the schedule like. And also, if we could have MEA's comment as to how significant is the visit in the context of stalled India-Middle East Economic Corridor, post Israel-Palestine war. Madhurendra: Sir Madhurendra main News Nation se. Mera sawal Foreign Secretary ke Japan visit ko lekar hai. Bharat aur Japan ke bich jo bullet train corridor hai, uski funding ko lekar kafi kuch issue chal rahe the, aur kai jagah project delay bhi hai, kya ispar koi batchit hui hai? Uska koi update hai? Aur Indian Ocean ko lekar jo Conference hai, is waqt jo Indian Ocean ki stithi hai, jis tarah ke attacks ho rahe hain, Houthiyon ke attack aur khaas taur par jo maritime security ko lekar challanges hain, uspar kya batchit is conference mai hone wali hai? [Question in Hindi: Approximate translation] Sir, Madhurendra from News Nation. My question is regarding the visit of the Foreign Secretary to Japan. There have been significant issues regarding the funding of the bullet train corridor between India and Japan, and the project is delayed at several places. Has there been any discussion on this matter? Do you have any update on it? Also, on the Conference on the Indian Ocean, given the current situation in the Indian Ocean, given the attacks like those by Houthis and especially the challenges regarding maritime security, what discussions are expected to take place at this Conference? Abhishek: Sir, Abhishek from CNN News18. My question is regarding NSA Doval's recent visit to Bangladesh. This has been reported in media mostly. Can we have some official version as to whom all he met and what all he discussed with his Bangladeshi counterpart or the leaders that he met there? Thank you. Raghavendra: This is Raghavendra Verma from German television ZDF. Sir my question is regarding the FTA with the European countries and the blocs. In the UK, there has been news that that might happen before the elections. There were news reports in Switzerland quoting local politicians saying, because the elections are going to happen in India soon, so we expect that this would be expedited. And UK also...Sir, can you update us? Is there any connection, and are we expecting that to happen soon? Shri Randhir Jaiswal, Official Spokesperson: Okay. Chandrakala, regarding your question on the visit of the Greek Prime Minister, you will get to know more details about the Prime Minister's visit at an appropriate time. Also we have engagement with several countries or large number of countries. All our international stakeholders are very important for us. All these bilateral relations are very important for us, including Greece. We have warm and friendly ties with them. We look forward. You will get to know more details of the visit closer to the date, at an appropriate time. Madhu, aapka sawal videsh sachiv ke sambandh mai hai. Videsh sachiv abhi Japan ke daure pe hain, aaj unhone Foreign Office Consultations kiya hai, aaj unhone waha par bilteral consultations...aur bhi jo wahan par jo humare mantrigan hain, aur defence mai aur trade ministry mai jo log hain, unke sath kiya hain. Iske baare mai aap details agar janna chahe toh hamara jo press vigyapti hai, usmai aap dekhenge ki sabhi muddon pe batchit hui hai, regional situation pe batchit hui hai, global sitatuon pe batchit hui hai, indo-pacific mai kya ho raha hai, uske bare mai batchit hui hain. Toh ye sab chizain aap wahan se le sakte hain, kuch der pahle humne ek press vigyapti jari kiya tha. Jahan tak Indian Ocean Conference ka sawal hai, 9 aur 10 ko ye conference Australia ke Perth shahar, Australia ke Perth shahar mai hoga. Hum logon ka samjh hai kariban 22 deshon se mantri delegation le ke aa rahe hain. Uske alawa Sri Lanka ke Rashtrapati bhi rahenge wahan par, uske alawa Australia ke Foreign Minister, uske alawa aur bhi log hain jo wahan par rahenge. Jitne mudde hain, jo Indian Ocean ko lekar jo mudde hain, sare muddon par batchit hogi. Bahot sare log, wo bhi log jo strategic community ke hain, think tank ke hain, woh sab log wahan rehenge, toh mere khayal se ek badi acchi charcha wahan par hone wali hai. [Answer in Hindi: Approximate translation] Madhu, your question pertains to the Foreign Secretary's visit. The Foreign Secretary is currently on a visit to Japan. Today, he has held Foreign Office Consultations there, and also bilateral consultations with Ministers there as well as with dignitaries in Defence and Trade ministries. If you wish to know more details, you can refer to our Press Release, where you'll find that discussions were held on various issues, including regional and global situations, as well as the developments in the Indo-Pacific region. We issued a press release a short while ago, you can refer to it. Regarding the Indian Ocean Conference, it will take place on the 9th and 10th in the city of Perth, Australia. We understand that delegations from around 22 countries, along with the President of Sri Lanka and Australia's Foreign Minister will be present there and several others will attend. Discussions will cover various issues concerning the Indian Ocean. Many experts and members of the strategic community and think tanks will also be present, so I believe there will be very good discussions there. Abhishek aapka sawal Rashtriya Suraksha Salahkaar ko leke tha (your question was regarding National Security Advisor). The National Security Advisor visited Bangladesh recently. Bangladesh is a very close neighbor for us. It underwent general elections recently. It is a routine matter for countries to have exchange high level visits, especially with a close neighbor. The visit of National Security Advisor was in that context. He met with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and he conveyed the greetings of Prime Minister Modi to her. That is what I have to share with you. Raghavendra, regarding your question on EFTA as also with UK FTA...my understanding is that both these trade negotiations are ongoing. We should not pre-judge what is there, what is not happening. But I understand that both these negotiations are going on, both these processes are moving forward. Yeshi: This is Yeshi again from The New Indian Express. What is the update on the filing of appeal in the Cassation Court regarding the eight naval veterans in Qatar? Shri Randhir Jaiswal, Official Spokesperson: On Qatar situation, the situation as far as the Court of Appeal remains the same as what I had informed you earlier. There is a 60-day window within which this process of appeal has to be filed. So that is where we are. The situation has not changed. We are in touch with the family members. We are also in touch with the legal team. Urvashi: Sir Urvashi Khona this side from the New Indian. This is regarding the case of Ariha Shah. Where the things have reached, the repatriation policy out there; because mother, I think, is pleading and she is on her way to protest tomorrow at Jantar Mantar for bringing her child back who is stuck since past 2.5 years. Shri Randhir Jaiswal, Official Spokesperson: This case of baby Ariha Shah, we have said this several times in the past. We attach high importance to this case. On the direction of the court, the parents were given visitation rights. They have met the child. We also, on the part of the Embassy and the Consulate, we have been meeting the child as part of the consular access. We've also ensured that the cultural immersion of the child goes forward, that her cultural rights, her identity, her ethos; she is brought up in that manner that she is acquainted with her cultural background and traits and moorings. I would also like to tell you that we are working together with German authorities on a roadmap to teach the child Indian languages. So we are doing all that we can and we attach very high importance or high importance to this particular case. If there are no more questions, then thank you very much. And we look forward to our engagement further. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran has never left negotiating table, will never do so in future: Raisi IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 7, 2024 Mashhad, IRNA -- Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi says his country has never left the negotiating table and will never do so in the future. Iran has had no diversion in its peaceful nuclear program, the president said on Wednesday as he addressed foreign ambassadors and representatives in Tehran in a ceremony marking the 45th victory anniversary of the Islamic Revolution. He referred to Western sanctions imposed on Iran partly over its nuclear energy program, saying that the measures failed to stop the progress of the country as it has made great achievements in different areas. President Raisi also said that the Iranian nation has the right to attain peaceful nuclear energy, noting that nuclear weapons have no place in the Islamic Republic's doctrine based on a Fatwa (religious order) issued by Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei , which bans nukes. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed in 15 statements that Iran's nuclear program has had no diversion, Raisi said. He added that the countries, which have nuclear warheads and bombs, intend to deprive Iran of its eligible right to develop nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, but they should realize that the Iranian nation will continue to insist on its right. Raisi also referred to the Israeli regime's atrocities in the Gaza Strip and said that what is happening in the besieged Palestinian territory is a hegemonic movement which is revealing the true image of the US and the West. "Victory belongs to the Palestinian nation and the Zionist regime has failed because it did not achieve the goals it had announced in advance", the president said. He advised the West and the US not to make decisions for Palestine and let the Palestinians determine their own future. Those who talk about democracy should let every Palestinian have one vote, should let Muslims, Christians, Jews, everyone have one vote, Raisi noted. He said that the current world order is unjust and is to blame for the current developments in Palestine. The existing world order should be revised in order to be replaced with a fair one, he added. 9341**4194 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran says coordination with IAEA developing IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 7, 2024 Mashhad, IRNA -- The top atomic official in Iran has described the country's coordination with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) as "developing." Mohammad Eslami, the head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), made the remarks while speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the cabinet session in Tehran on Wednesday. Eslami noted that an effort has been made to foil the enemies' plots through the continued developing coordination with the IAEA. "Our interactions with IAEA are underway," Eslami said while referring to the recent visit of the deputy director general of the IAEA to Tehran which took place a week ago. 1483**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran says no plans to build wall at Afghanistan border IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 7, 2024 Mashhad, IRNA -- Iranian Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi has dismissed rumors of building a border wall between Iran and Afghanistan, saying there are no such plans. "There is no plan to build a wall; The issue of blocking the border is what we are pursuing," Vahidi said on the sidelines of a weekly cabinet meeting on Wednesday. Iran has called for joint efforts with Afghanistan to secure the joint border areas amid intermittent attacks by terrorists at border crossings. 4354**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Nuclear chief: 'Iranium' will turn Iran into major player in enrichment field IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 7, 2024 Mashhad, IRNA -- Newly-developed magnetic mass spectrometer "Iranium" will turn the country into a major player in the field of uranium enrichment, says the head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, Mohammad Eslami. Speaking at a ceremony to unveil Iranium in Shahid Ahmadi Roshan Enrichment Complex in Natanz city on Tuesday, Eslami said Iranian scientists worked tirelessly for four years to bring this project to fruition. He said that the countries that possessed similar devices did not sell this technology to Iran even at very high prices. "That is, the sale of these devices is actually considered entering a prohibited area, and this equipment is only in the monopoly of a few countries," he added. Eslami explained that Iranium is used to measure the spectrum of atoms that exist in a substance, but its usage is not limited to the nuclear industry. 4354**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran self-reliant in meeting nuclear requirements amid Western double standards: AEOI chief IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 8, 2024 Mashhad, IRNA -- Head of the Atomic Energy Agency of Iran (AEOI) Mohammad Eslami has said that the destructive behaviors of arrogant powers (the US and some of its Western allies) and the double standards of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) pushed Iran to meet its nuclear requirements through domestically developed research. Eslami made the remark on Thursday as he visited an exhibition in Mashhad, Razavi Khorasan province, which showcases national achievements by Iran. He noted that as a result of double standards and destructive behaviors toward the peaceful Iranian nuclear program, there was no cooperation with the country in its nuclear industry which even faced obstacles preventing the supply of the required equipment and technology. The lack of cooperation however made Iran powerfully follow up all the processes through fruitful research and create the capacity for research and development, Eslami added. The newly-developed magnetic mass spectrometer "Iranium" was unveiled at Shahid Ahmadi Roshan Enrichment Complex in Natanz city on Tuesday. The AEOI has recently inaugurated a semi-industrial production center for producing tellurium hexafluoride in Isfahan, central Iran, he said. 4208**4194 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Meta Bans Accounts Of Iran's Supreme Leader, Likely For Pro-Hamas Posts By Kian Sharifi February 08, 2024 Meta has removed accounts run by the office of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Instagram and Facebook for posts in support of the Palestinian group Hamas, which is designated as a terrorist organization by the United States and the European Union. "We have removed these accounts for repeatedly violating our Dangerous Organizations & Individuals policy," a spokesperson for Instagram's parent company Meta told RFE/RL in a statement. The policy includes organizations backlisted by the U.S. government. Meta did not explicitly reference Hamas, but Khamenei has praised the group's surprise attack on Israel on October 7, which resulted in the deaths of more than 1,200 people and 253 others being taken hostage and brought to the Hamas-controlled enclave of Gaza. Israel responded by launching a deadly offensive against the extremists. "We kiss the foreheads and arms of those who planned the attack on the Zionist regime," Khamenei said in a speech three days after the attack. Iran is a major backer of Hamas but has denied any involvement in the group's attack on Israel. Tehran's ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeed Iravani, said in an interview with NBC News on February 7 that Iran has been arming, training, and "empowering" Palestinian militant groups. The U.S. State Department in 2020 estimated that Iran "has historically provided up to $100 million annually in combined support" to Palestinian militant groups, including Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ). Meta said in October that it would remove "praise and substantive support" for Hamas. Khamenei's office maintains several accounts in various languages on popular social media platforms Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, all of which are blocked in Iran. The Iranian leader's Persian account on Instagram, which had more than 5 million followers, is among the accounts that were removed. Prior to its takeover by billionaire Elon Musk, X, formerly known as Twitter, banned several accounts associated with Khamenei's office for posting content threatening former U.S. President Donald Trump. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-meta-khamenei- accounts-banned-instagram-facebook/32811057.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address More Iranian Students Barred From Studies Over Protest Activities As Crackdown Continues By RFE/RL's Radio Farda February 08, 2024 At least five students at Tehran's Soore University have been barred from attending classes next semester without being given due process as authorities continue to crack down on any signs of dissent on campus. The country's Student Guild Councils reported on their Telegram channel on February 7 that Soore University has "suspended at least five students, depriving them of their right to education for the upcoming term" for activities that were deemed unacceptable. According to the channel, the suspensions were carried out "without the conduct of disciplinary committees and legal process, with students being summoned only by the university's cultural deputy to receive their suspension orders." Student activists have highlighted the increasingly oppressive atmosphere in Iranian universities since the start of the new academic year. This includes widespread summonses issued by intelligence and security agencies, disciplinary actions, temporary suspensions, and even expulsions of students and faculty members. Universities and students have long been at the forefront of the struggle for greater social and political freedoms in Iran. In 1999, students protested the closure of a reformist daily newspaper, prompting a brutal raid on the dorms of Tehran University that left one student dead. Over the years, the authorities have arrested student activists and leaders, sentencing them to prison and banning them from studying. However, the crackdown has not been limited to students. This week, Ahmad Shekarchi, a sociology professor at Beheshti University in Tehran, announced the university's decision to cancel his teaching contract, making him the latest in a growing line of educators to lose their jobs for supporting students and their protests. The Khabaronline website reported on February 7 that Tehran University and the Tehran University of Medical Sciences, have fired 26 professors, while Azad University, with 14 professors being fired, has reported the highest number of professors being fired or suspended over the past two years. In September, the Etemad newspaper published a list of 52 professors dismissed from Iranian universities, stating that the recent wave of faculty dismissals began with the onset of President Ebrahim Raisi's government in 2021 and has only intensified in the wake of the "Women, Life, Freedom" protests. The activist HRANA news agency says at least 700 university students have been arrested during the nationwide protests sparked by the September 2022 death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini while in police custody for allegedly breaking the country's Islamic dress code. Many have faced punishments such as imprisonment and flogging, and dozens of students have been expelled from universities or suspended from their studies, as security forces try to stifle widespread dissent. Written by Ardeshir Tayebi based on an original story in Persian by RFE/RL's Radio Farda Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-students-barred- studies-protest-crackdown-soore/32810340.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Baghdad attack in line with US support for Israeli regime: Iran FM spox. IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 8, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Nasser Kanaani has said that the latest aggressive attack by US Central Command (CENTCOM) in Baghdad, Iraq, was carried out in line with the US administration's all-out support for the Israeli regime's crimes against Palestinians. Kanaani made the comment on Thursday following a US drone strike that killed a commander of the Kata'ib Hezbollah resistance group and two of his guards earlier in the day. They were in a vehicle when it was targeted by the US attack in the east of the Iraqi capital. The Iranian spokesman called the attack a clear example of "US state terrorism" as well as violation of Iraq's national sovereignty and territorial integrity, saying that it was international law. He also said that the latest aggressive act by "CENTCOM terrorist forces" was in line with the US's continued all-out support for the Israeli regime's crimes against the defenseless people of Palestine. Kanaani further said that the continuation of such acts of adventurism by the US is a threat to peace and security in the West Asia region and other parts of the world. The spokesman reiterated that the international community and the UN Security Council shoulder the responsibility to stop the United States' illegal and unilateral attacks and prevent the expansion of crisis and instability in the region. 4208**4194 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address A $95.34 billion bill that includes aid for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan advanced in the U.S. Senate on Thursday after Republicans blocked compromise legislation that included a long-sought overhaul of immigration policy, Reuters agency said Thursday, February 8. "A good first step. This bill is essential for our national security, for the security of our friends in Ukraine, in Israel, for humanitarian aid for innocent civilians in Gaza and for Taiwan," leader of the Democratic majority in the Senate, Chuck Schumer, said after the vote. It is noted that the senators supported the procedural proposal, exceeding the threshold of 60 votes to advance the bill. Seventeen Republicans voted for, an unexpected move after they blocked broader border security measures on Wednesday. It was not announced when the Senate would vote on the final passage of the bill. Iraqi MPs call for urgent meeting to expel US troops IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 8, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- An Iraqi lawmaker has called for an urgent meeting of parliament with the presence of Prime Minister Mohammad Shia al-Sudani to discuss the expulsion of American forces from the country. Saud Al-Saadi, the head of the Iraqi parliament's rights faction issued the call following a US drone strike on a car in the east of Baghdad. "We ask the interim parliament speaker to hold an urgent meeting with the presence of the Prime Minister to accelerate the expulsion of American occupying forces in order to prevent repeated US attacks in Iraq and targeting of the commanders of the Popular Mobilization Forces", he was quoted by Iraq's Al-Maloomah website. Faleh al-Khazali, another member of the Iraqi parliament called it is obligatory for lawmakers to expel the Americans and their embassy from Iraq, adding that Prime Minister Al-Sudani is also responsible in this regard. According to media reports, a car in eastern Baghdad was targeted by a US drone attack that left three occupants dead, potentially two senior members of the Islamic Resistance. Witnesses said identification cards found nearby the charred vehicle identified them as Arkan al-Elayawi and Abu Bakir al-Saadi but their assassinations have not been officially confirmed. 4399 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iraq: US airstrikes push Baghdad to expel American troops Iran Press TV Thursday, 08 February 2024 5:16 PM Iraq says repeated US strikes in the country are pushing the Baghdad government to end the presence of American troops, calling them a cause of instability. Yahya Rasool, military spokesperson for Iraqi Prime Minister Shia' al-Sudani, said in a statement Thursday that the so-called US coalition "has become a factor for instability and threatens to entangle Iraq in the cycle of conflict". "This path pushes the Iraqi government more than ever before to end the coalition's mission which has become a factor of instability for Iraq." The United States has 2,500 troops in Iraq with the express purpose of advising and assisting local forces to prevent a resurgence of Daesh. However, they have repeatedly targeted anti-terror groups integrated into the official Iraqi armed forces. On Wednesday, the US military targeted a vehicle with a drone, killing three people, including a senior commander of Iraq's Kata'ib Hezbollah resistance group. The group identified the commander as Abu Baqir al-Saadi. Since the Israeli war on Gaza began in October, anti-terror groups in Iraq and Syria which see themselves as part of a regional "axis of resistance" have been involved in almost daily tit-for-tat attacks with US forces stationed in the region. The US aggression has agitated the Iraqi government which is pushing Washington to discuss a timeline for the withdrawal of its troops in the Arab country. On Tuesday, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, in a phone conversation with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, called for the resumption of the talks halted since three American soldiers were killed in a drone attack in Jordan. Last week, Prime Minister Sudani's office said the presence of the US troops in the region "has become a reason for threatening security and stability in Iraq and a justification for involving Iraq in regional and international conflicts". The angry announcement came after at least 16 Iraqis were killed in US airstrikes ordered by President Joe Biden following the deadly drone attack on the American base in Jordan. Rasool warned then that the actions taken by Washington would have "disastrous consequences for the security and stability of Iraq and the region". NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran strongly condemns 'American state terrorism' in Iraq Iran Press TV Thursday, 08 February 2024 2:50 PM Iran has strongly condemned the "terrorist act of the American government inside Iraq, which led to the martyrdom of several members of the resistance forces against terrorism". The assassination of Abu Baqir al-Saadi, one of the senior commanders of the fight against terrorism and Daesh, and others is "a clear example of American state terrorism", Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kan'ani said on Thursday. The US military admitted responsibility for a drone strike in Baghdad Wednesday night, which killed three people, including the senior commander of Iraq's Kata'ib Hezbollah resistance group. Abu Baqir al-Saadi was one of the senior commanders of the fight against terrorism and Daesh. Kan'ani said the assassination is a "violation of national sovereignty" and "territorial integrity of Iraq" and against international laws and regulations. "The aggressive act of the terrorist CENTCOM forces in Baghdad was carried out in line with the continuation of the full support of the American government for the crimes of the Zionist regime against the oppressed people of Palestine," he said. The spokesman extended his condolences to the Iraqi nation and government and the families of those assassinated in the attack. The attack came nearly a week after the United States carried out a flurry of airstrikes across Iraq and neighboring Syria, killing nearly 40 people. Kan'ani said the continuation of "such adventures" by the US is a threat to regional and international peace and security. He underlined the responsibility of the international community as well as the United Nations Security Council in preventing illegal and unilateral actions and attacks by the United States in the region and staving off the expansion of crisis and instability. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary Blinken's Meeting with Israeli Chairman Lapid US Department of State Readout Office of the Spokesperson February 8, 2024 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met today with Israeli Opposition Leader and Chairman of the Yesh Atid party Yair Lapid. The Secretary and Chairman Lapid reviewed the latest efforts to facilitate the safe return of all remaining hostages and to increase levels of life-saving humanitarian assistance. Secretary Blinken discussed with Chairman Lapid the need to protect civilians as Israel works to ensure the attacks of October 7 are never repeated. The Secretary also discussed the United States' vision for a more durable peace and security for Israel fully integrated within the region and the establishment of a Palestinian state with guarantees for Israel's security. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary Blinken's Meeting with Israeli Ministers Eisenkot and Gantz US Department of State Readout Office of the Spokesperson February 8, 2024 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met today with Israeli Minister Gadi Eisenkot and Minister Benny Gantz in Tel Aviv. The Secretary and Ministers Eisenkot and Gantz reviewed the latest efforts to facilitate the safe return of all remaining hostages, increase levels of humanitarian assistance, and prevent the conflict from expanding. Secretary Blinken stressed the need to take all possible steps to protect civilians as Israel works to ensure the attacks of October 7 are never repeated. Secretary Blinken also discussed the United States' vision for a more durable peace and security for Israel fully integrated within the region and the establishment of a Palestinian state with Israel's security guaranteed. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address MHA decides to scrap Free Movement Regime (FMR) between India and Myanmar to ensure the internal security of the country and maintain the demographic structure of India's North Eastern States bordering Myanmar India PIB Ministry of Home Affairs It is Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji's resolve to secure our borders - Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah Since the Ministry of External Affairs is currently in the process of scrapping it, MHA has recommended the immediate suspension of the FMR Posted On: 08 FEB 2024 1:29PM by PIB Delhi Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has decided to scrap the Free Movement Regime (FMR) between India and Myanmar to ensure the internal security of the country and to maintain the demographic structure of India's North Eastern States bordering Myanmar. Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah in his post on 'X'said that "It is Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji's resolve to secure our borders, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has decided that the Free Movement Regime (FMR) between India and Myanmar be scrapped to ensure the internal security of the country and to maintain the demographic structure of India's North Eastern States bordering Myanmar. Since the Ministry of External Affairs is currently in the process of scrapping it, MHA has recommended the immediate suspension of the FMR." RK / RR / AK (Release ID: 2003884) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Joint Statement on the 14th meeting of the Pakistan-Russia Consultative Group on Strategic Stability Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs On 7 February 2024, the 14th round of Pakistan-Russia Consultative Group on Strategic Stability was held under the chairmanship of Additional Foreign Secretary (Arms Control and Disarmament) Mohammad Kamran Akhtar and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs S.A. Ryabkov The parties had an in-depth exchange of views on international security and regional stability challenges, as well as on various aspects of arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation. The two sides discussed issues related to the agenda of the First Committee of the UN General Assembly, the Conference on Disarmament, the IAEA and the OPCW. The issues concerning biological, space and international information security, as well as new and emerging technologies, including the military use of artificial intelligence, came under discussion at length. The two sides expressed satisfaction on the similarity of views on range of issues of global strategic stability, regional security including matters related to arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation. Readiness was expressed to continue close coordination at relevant international platforms. Moreover, the importance of regular meetings of the Consultative Group was also emphasized. It was agreed to hold the 15th meeting of the Group next year in Islamabad. 37/2024 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address South Korea releases top secret survey of North Korean escapees Data suggests that quality of life for average North Koreans has worsened over the years. By Jamin Anderson and Lee Jeong Eun for RFA Korean 2024.02.08 -- An exhaustive, 10-year survey of 6,351 North Korean escapees about their former lives in the isolated country paints a bleak picture: Food and energy are both scarcer, and government surveillance and crackdowns are stricter. Women now play a more elevated role in families and society - though not because of a heightened sense of equality, but rather out of economic necessity, those interviewed said. They have become the main breadwinners, setting up stalls in makeshift markets that now are the main source of food and other basics for daily life. The results of the report, compiled between 2013 and 2022 by the South's Unification Ministry and released Tuesday, opens a window into the lives of ordinary North Koreans, and clearly indicates that the quality of life has worsened since Kim Jong Un came to power in 2011 after the death of his father. Han Songmi, who was 19 when she escaped in 2011, is one of more than 30,000 people who have fled the North over the years. Now living in South Korea, she imagines what her friends and peers are experiencing, since she has virtually no way of communicating with them. "They are probably in their late 20s now, and they are probably living with more anger than they did back then," said Han, who was not interviewed for the survey. When she lived in North Korea, Han said she and her friends were aware that the government controlled every aspect of their lives, but they were not allowed to discuss such things freely. "The authorities were cracking down on kids for their clothing and hairstyles," she told RFA Korean. "The kids would be saying 'We can't do this' among ourselves, but we couldn't say that in front of adults. Adults would always say, 'Be careful, your parents can get arrested because of you.'" Authorities also restricted the kinds of clothes people could wear. "We had to wear a black skirt and a white top, but I witnessed some in Pyongyang being cracked down on for wearing South Korean-style jeans or wearing earrings," she said. Economic shocks The survey results show economic conditions in North Korea have worsened, and that women have become main providers for their families. Until the 1990s, people could rely on the government to provide their food under a rationing program, but this changed dramatically when the Soviet Union collapsed and aid from Moscow dried up. The centrally planned economy could not cope with the sudden shock, resulting in a famine between 1994 and 1998 that killed more than 2 million by some estimates in what has become known as the "Arduous March" - a defining period in the country's history. The rationing system became no longer viable. The Ministry of Unification's report showed that among respondents who fled North Korea between 2016 and 2020 more than 72% of those interviewed said they had never received food rations. The system changed somewhat to allow people to access a rationing system at their government-assigned jobs. People could expect to be paid a salary that they could then use to buy food at discounted prices. 'Barking dogs' But in reality, state-assigned jobs became less and less a means of support. Among those who fled before 2000, 33.5% said they had received neither food rations nor wages at their official workplace. For those who fled between 2016-2020, some 50.3% said the same. With government jobs - mostly held by men - paying almost nothing, housewives have had to make money to survive, and have started running tiny businesses in markets, buying and selling things such as vegetables and packaged foods and various products smuggled in from China. Since Kim Jong Un began his rule, 70.5% of the respondents said they have had to rely on these local markets for survival, the survey showed. The salaries paid to men, meanwhile, have become so miniscule that the men are unable to provide for their families, so men are increasingly referred to by slang terms like "barking dogs" or "daytime lamps," suggesting they are insignificant and generally useless. "Usually, most women made a living by selling things in the market," said Han. "Although their husbands worked at a company, the company did not provide rations or pay much. I think women's voices gradually grew louder from that generation onwards because women had to feed their families." Corruption Since North Korea's economic collapse, corruption has become more of a problem, the survey showed. While the ordinary people operate side-businesses to make ends meet, those in power use their status or position for economic gain, by collecting a percentage of these side-business' profits, or by extracting bribes. Of the survey respondents who escaped since Kim Jong Un came to power, 41.4% said they had been robbed of more than 30% of their monthly income, and among those who escaped between 2016 to 2020, 54.4% said they had paid bribes. "As the authorities' crackdowns intensify, residents have no choice but to pay bribes as part of whatever they are doing to make a living," said Lee Hyun-Seung, who escaped from North Korea in 2014 and settled in the United States. She was not one of those interviewed in the survey. "Because we do not have economic freedom, those who engage in economic activities cannot receive legal protection," she said. "That's why we pay bribes and receive protection or avoid punishment from people in power." Power shortages Ordinary people also have less access to electricity, the survey showed, since the cash-strapped government prioritizes industry over the good of the people. Prior to 2000, most residents got an average of 5 hours and 42 minutes of electricity per day in their homes. Since Kim Jong Un came to power, they're getting about 90 minutes less, an average of 4 hours 18 minutes, the survey found. "I can't imagine how the situation can be worse now than when I escaped," Kim Sookyoung, who escaped North Korea in 1998 and settled in the United States, told RFA. "When I lived in North Korea, the day electricity came on was like a holiday," said Kim, who was not among those interviewed by the Unification Ministry. "When the electricity came on, all the residents in my apartment building shouted with joy. The light itself was just a joy." She said there were some days when the electricity did not come on at all. So people would charge batteries so they would have light during those days. "The first thing I did when the electricity came on was to charge the battery," she said. Heating the home in the dead of winter has also become more of a challenge. In years past, people could rely on electricity or gas for heat, but these days it's all about firewood. More than 69% of the respondents to the survey said they purchased firewood to heat their homes because it was more reliable. Leadership The survey asked several questions about the country's leadership by members of the so-called Paektu bloodline, made up of national founder Kim Il Sung and his descendants, which include his son and successor Kim Jong Il and his grandson, the current leader Kim Jong Un. The report said that 743 of the respondents were asked whether they supported the continuation of the Paektu bloodline leadership system prior to their escape from North Korea. Of those, 44.4% said they were against dynastic rule, while 37.8% said they supported it. Support for the regime has waned over the years. Among the respondents who escaped from North Korea before 2011, only 29.9% said they had had negative feelings about the regime, whereas 52.6% of those who escaped after 2012 felt the same way. Among those escaped between 2016 to 2020, this figure climbs to 56.3%. During a press briefing on Jan. 29, Unification Ministry spokesperson Koo Byoung-sam said that it is not easy to confirm concrete signs of North Korean residents' dissatisfaction with the regime they live under. Translated by Claire Shinyoung Oh Lee and Leejin J. Chung. Edited by Eugene Whong and Malcolm Foster. 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 February not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Finland's eastern border to remain closed Finnish Government Ministry of the Interior 8.2.2024 The Government has decided that the border crossing points on the land border between Finland and Russia will remain closed until 14 April 2024. It will also not be possible to submit applications for international protection at any border crossing points on the land border between Finland and Russia. The Government decided on the matter in its session on 8 February 2024. The decision will extend the total closure of the eastern border by two months. Under the current circumstances, it is a necessary and proportionate measure, as instrumentalised migration poses a serious threat to Finland's national security and public order. Based on the information provided by the authorities, it is likely that instrumentalised migration would resume if border crossing points were opened at the eastern border. "We have seen no signs that Russia is changing its behaviour. On the contrary, the information we have received confirms our assessment that Russia is continuing its hybrid operation. We have reason to believe that this situation will continue for some time. There are hundreds if not thousands of migrants who are currently staying close to the border on the Russian side and who are waiting for the chance to cross into Finland," says Minister of the Interior Mari Rantanen. "Understandably, the continued total closure of the eastern border is distressing especially for people with family on the Russian side. However, the temporary closure of border crossing points is the result of Russia's actions, which require Finland to put national security first," Rantanen says. Instrumentalisation of migration is one of Russia's means of exerting pressure and a way to affect the security and social stability of Finland and the EU. The Ministry of the Interior together with other ministries is currently looking for alternative ways to put an end to this phenomenon. However, adequate time should be given to conducting a thorough legislative analysis and drawing conclusions from it. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Telephone conversation with President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev During their telephone conversation, Vladimir Putin warmly congratulated President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on his landslide victory in the early presidential election and wished him new successes during his work in this high state position. February 8, 2024 11:30 Vladimir Putin and Ilham Aliyev reaffirmed their mutual interest in further developing Russian-Azerbaijani strategic partnership and alliance and agreed to continue their personal contacts. Vladimir Putin also sent greetings to Ilham Aliyev. The message reads, in part: "The voting results fully confirm your high political authority and demonstrate nationwide support for your line aimed at expediting the socioeconomic development of Azerbaijan and strengthening its positions on the international scene. We attach great significance to allied relations with Baku. I am confident that we will continue our active joint work to expand fruitful bilateral cooperation in all spheres, as well as partner-like interaction in addressing topical issues on the international agenda. This, doubtless, meets the interests of our friendly nations and helps strengthen stability and security in the South Caucasus and the Caspian region." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has a right to choose who leads Ukraine's military and the United States will work effectively with his new military chief, Celeste Wallander, the assistant secretary of defense for international security affairs at the Pentagon, Reuters reported. "President Zelenskyy is the president of his country and Ukraine, unlike Russia, has a democratic civilian control of the military," Pentagons representative said. Wallander called Syrsky "an experienced, successful commander." As previously reported, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced in an evening address that Oleksandr Syrsky had been appointed commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Putin Says In Interview With U.S. Commentator Russia Has 'No Interest' In Expanding War Into Poland By RFE/RL February 08, 2024 Russia has no interest in invading NATO member Poland, Russian President Vladimir Putin said in a controversial interview broadcast on February 8 in which he also said he believes a deal is possible to free detained Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich. Right-wing U.S. political commentator Tucker Carlson, who conducted the two-hour interview on February 6 and aired it at his website, asked Putin whether he could imagine a scenario in which Russia sends troops into Poland. "Only in one case, if Poland attacks Russia," Putin responded, adding: "We have no interest in Poland, Latvia, or anywhere else. Why would we do that? We simply don't have any interest. It's just threat mongering. It is absolutely out of the question." On Gershkovich, Putin said Russian and American officials were discussing the case and had made some progress. The Russian president suggested that the person Moscow wants in return for Gershkovich, is Vadim Krasikov, who was convicted of the 2019 murder of a Chechen dissident in Berlin. "There is no taboo to settle this issue. We are willing to solve it, but there are certain terms being discussed via special services channels. I believe an agreement can be reached," Putin told Carlson. Carlson faced criticism for interviewing Putin when his government is holding Gershkovich and another U.S. journalist, Alsu Kurmasheva of RFE/RL, in jail on charges related to their reporting that both vehemently deny. Kurmasheva's case was not mentioned in the interview. Some estimates say around 1,000 independent Russia journalists have been forced to flee the country fearing for their safety due to strict censorship laws Putin has put in place that make critical coverage of the war against Ukraine a criminal offense. "Two American journalists are currently in Russian jails for trying to conduct independent journalism in Russia. Russian journalists have been killed for trying to practice independent journalism, some are in jail, and many others have had to flee the country," said Brian Taylor, a professor of political science at Syracuse University's Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs in the United States. Carlson, a former Fox News host, has made a name for himself by spreading conspiracy theories and has questioned U.S. support for Ukraine in its fight against invading Russian troops. The interview was Putin's first with a Western media figure since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. "The fact that Putin is willing to talk to Tucker Carlson now means that Putin is looking for an opportunity to influence American domestic politics and he thinks Carlson will be a useful conduit for his message," Taylor said in an e-mail to RFE/RL. The interview took place as Putin hopes that Western support for Kyiv will wane and morale among Ukrainians will flag to the point where his war aims are achievable. It also comes as U.S. military support for Kyiv is in question as Republican lawmakers block a $60 billion aid package proposed by President Joe Biden. Describing his decision to interview Putin in an announcement posted on X on February 6, Carlson asserted that U.S. media outlets focus fawningly on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy but that Putin's voice is not heard in the United States because Western journalists have not "bothered" to interview him since the full-scale invasion. Numerous Western journalists rejected this claim, saying that they have consistently sought to interview Putin but have been turned away. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov later confirmed that, saying that his office receives "numerous requests for interviews with the president" but that most of the Western outlets asking are "traditional TV channels and large newspapers that don't even attempt to appear impartial in their coverage. Of course, there's no desire to communicate with this kind of media." Carlson was one of Fox News' top-rated hosts before he abruptly left the network last year after Fox settled a separate defamation lawsuit over its reporting of the 2020 presidential election. Fox agreed to pay $787 million to voting machine company Dominion after the company filed a lawsuit alleging the network spread false claims that its machines were rigged against former President Donald Trump. Carlson has had a rocky relationship at times with the former president, but during Trump's presidency he had Carlson's full backing and in November Carlson endorsed Trump in his 2024 run to regain the White House. According to Peskov, Carlson spent several days in Russia in a visit that was avidly covered by media outlets there, many of which are state-run or loyal to the state. Putin repeated in the interview that the unprovoked invasion of Ukraine is a defensive battle to save Russia and that it was in response to the threat of further NATO expansion. He claimed that prior to the war Ukrainian leaders were "under complete American control" and refused to listen to Russian proposals to avoid war. Analysts say that while Russian forces have failed to subjugate Ukraine or force Zelenskiy's government from power, Putin hopes that Western support for Kyiv and morale among Ukrainians will flag to the point where his war aims are achievable - and that the U.S. presidential election in November will advance that process. Tatyana Stanovaya, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center think tank, said that Putin likely decided to do the interview because he sees this year as "pivotal" in shifting the dynamics of the war in Ukraine toward his favor given the United States is in an election year and Ukraine appears to be "grappling with significant internal political challenges." "Against this strategic backdrop, Putin badly needs to reach a Western audience. It is probable that during the interview, he will attempt to position himself as a friend to the American people, arguing that it is in the U.S.'s interest to cease its support for Ukraine," she wrote on X, adding that "the interview is a platform for Putin to widen his access to American viewers and garner support for his narrative." Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/putin-tucker-carlson- interview-controversy-ukraine-zelenskiy/32811234.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Anti-War Candidate Nadezhdin Vows To Fight Election Commission's Rejection Of His Registration By RFE/RL's Russian Service February 08, 2024 Boris Nadezhdin, the only remaining anti-war presidential hopeful, said on February 8 that Russia's Central Election Commission (TsIK) refused to register him for an upcoming election set up to hand incumbent Vladimir Putin another six-year term. The TsIK ruled on February 8 that only 95,587 signatures collected by Nadezhdin's supporters were valid, while 100,000 signatures must be collected to register a presidential candidate. Although Nadezhdin said he had collected far more signatures then the 100,000 threshold needed for a candidate nominated by a political party, the commission only accepts a maximum of 105,000 for review. The TsIK, which routinely refuses to register would-be opposition candidates on the pretext that they submitted an insufficient number of valid signatures, thus making the entire signature process a kind of filter against unwelcome developments, previously said it had found "flaws" in more than 15 percent of the support signatures in Nadezhdin's application, well above the 5 percent limit.February 08, 2024 The Uzbekistan-born 60-year-old academic and former lawmaker, who was proposed as a presidential candidate by the Civic Platform party, vowed to appeal the decision all the way to the Supreme Court. "I do not agree with the decision of the Central Election Commission. I collected more than 200,000 signatures across Russia. We conducted the collection openly and honestly -- the whole world watched the lines at our headquarters and collection stations," Nadezhdin wrote on Telegram. "Running for president in 2024 is the most important political decision of my life. I will not retreat from my intentions. I will appeal the decision of the Central Election Commission at the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation." Russian elections are tightly controlled by the Kremlin and are neither free nor fair but are viewed by the government as necessary to convey a sense of legitimacy. They are mangled by the exclusion of opposition candidates, voter intimidation, ballot stuffing, and other means of manipulation. Meanwhile, the Kremlin's tight grip on politics, media, law enforcement, and other levers nationwide means Putin, who has ruled Russia as president or prime minister since 1999, is certain to win, barring a very big, unexpected development. But the surprising show of support for the little-known Nadezhdin, whose platform says the invasion of Ukraine was a "fatal mistake" and accuses Putin of dragging Russia into the past instead of building a sustainable future, is complicating the Kremlin's more aggressive ambition of boosting the perception of Putin's legitimacy. Nadezhdin has been supported by associates of imprisoned opposition politician Aleksei Navalny and self-exiled opposition figures Maksim Kats and Mikhail Khodorkovsky. Those who were expected to be Putin's main challengers currently are either incarcerated or have fled the country, fearing for their safety. In mid-November, Putin signed into law a bill on amendments to legislation on presidential elections that restricts coverage of the poll, while also giving the TsIK the right to change the election procedure in territories where martial law has been introduced. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-nadezhdin-presidential- election-registration-rejection/32810599.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia, China Not Accepting Political, Military Pressure From United States Sputnik News 20240208 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed mutual rejection of the US course aimed at interfering in the internal affairs of other countries and exerting political and military pressure, Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov said on Thursday. Yury Ushakov, an advisor to the President of the Russian Federation on foreign policy matters, has commented on some of the topics Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping touched upon during their in-depth phone call. "Russian President Vladimir Putin had a comprehensive phone conversation with President of China Xi Jinping," the Kremlin aid said. The presidents summed up the development of the Russian-Chinese inclusive partnership and strategic interaction over the recent period, the statement read. "It was once again stated that good neighborly ties between our countries are at an unprecedented high level," the Kremlin said, adding that the sides noted the close interaction between the countries as an important stabilizing factor in global affairs. Russia, China Renounce US Interference in Other State's Affairs "[The sides] expressed mutual rejection of the US course aimed at interfering in the internal affairs of other states. Our countries also do not accept political and military pressure from the United States. And most importantly, the leaders of the two countries understand that the United States is practically implementing a policy of dual containment of both Russia and China," Ushakov told reporters. Developments in Asia-Pacifi Region When discussing the developments in the Asia-Pacific region, Putin confirmed his principled position on the Taiwan issue and support the one-China principle. "There was a substantive exchange of views on the situation in a number of regions of the world, including in the Middle East, where the approaches of Russia and China in favor of a political and diplomatic settlement of the Palestinian problem within a generally recognized international legal framework completely coincide ... The current situation in Ukraine was also touched upon," the statement said. In addition, the Chinese leader has expressed his support for the priorities of the Russian presidency in BRICS. Joint Energy Projects Promotion Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed readiness to promote joint energy projects despite sanctions, Yury Ushakov added. "During the conversation, much attention was paid to issues of energy cooperation ...The progress of the implementation of major Russian-Chinese joint projects in the energy sector was discussed... [the leaders] confirmed readiness for further work to promote them [energy projects], despite attempts by Western countries to exert pressure by imposing unilateral illegitimate sanctions," Ushakov noted. Bilateral Financial Cooperation Ushakov confirmed that Putin and Xi had also discussed financial cooperation between the nations, adding that over 90% of all bilateral transactions are made in rubles and yuan. "Financial cooperation was touched upon. Already over 90% of settlements between our countries are carried out in rubles and yuan. For further development, it is important to continue working together to build a financial infrastructure that ensures reliable payments," Ushakov emphasized. Record Bilateral Trade Turnover The trade between the two countries has exceeded the target level of $200 billion earlier than expected and has now reached a record-high of $227.7 billion, the Kremlin aide shared. "It was noted with satisfaction that the bilateral trade exceeded the $200 billion mark a year earlier than the target date set by the leaders and reached a record-high of $227.7 billion," the statement said. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Assets Worth Over $711Mln Frozen in Netherlands as of January 11 Sputnik News 20240208 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Assets of individuals and legal entities from Russia worth more than 660 million euros ($711 million) were frozen in the Netherlands as of January 11, Russian Ambassador Vladimir Tarabrin said on Thursday. "The Netherlands strives to be at the forefront of the EU's anti-Russian initiatives. This also applies to efforts to monitor compliance with unilateral restrictive measures against our country. As of January 11, the financial assets of individuals and legal entities in the amount of over 660 million euros have been frozen here," Tarabrin told the Rossiya 24 broadcaster. Following the start of Russia's special military operation, the US-led West slapped widespread sanctions on Moscow, including freezing Russian assets worth approximately 300 billion euros ($329 billion). The bulk of this sum, approximately 200 billion euros ($221 billion), is being held in the European Union, predominantly in accounts at Euroclear, a European central securities depository. Moscow has maintained that such an attempt goes in violation of the international law. The Russian Foreign Ministry has dismissed the freezing of Russian assets as theft. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said last week that the EU plan to seize Russian central bank assets was an "escalation of economic aggression" and a trade war, and warned that Russia would respond in a correspondingly harsh manner. She said that any attempt to confiscate Russian assets would be a gross violation of the West's own law, international rules and bilateral obligations. "Those who are trying to initiate this, and those who will implement it, must understand that Russia will never leave those who did this alone. And it will constantly exercise its right to a legal battle, internationally, nationally or otherwise. And this, of course, will have a both Europeans and Americans understand this very well a it will have legal consequences for those who initiated and implemented it," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov cautioned commenting on the issue. Last year, Russian President Vladimir Putin dubbed the West's asset seizure as "unseemly business," and stressed that "stealing other people's assets has never brought anyone good". A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Putin and Xi Reiterate Strong Ties, Reject 'US Interference' By VOA News February 08, 2024 Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke on the phone Thursday, according to the Kremlin, reiterating their strong diplomatic ties while rejecting what they called "U.S. interference" in other countries' affairs. The two also discussed creating a "multipolar, fairer world order," and how they would continue to maintain "close personal interaction" in the future, said Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov during a press briefing on Thursday. Russia and China declared a "no limits" partnership two years ago during a visit by Putin to Beijing. That visit came just days before Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine. Ushakov said there were no plans now for any upcoming visits. The two leaders held in-person talks twice last year. The phone call comes as both countries have faced sanctions in recent years. The U.S. and its allies have imposed sanctions on Beijing in connection with human rights abuses against the majority Muslim Uyghur population in China's Xinjiang province. Russia was sanctioned for its February 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The two spoke about their burgeoning economic ties with China-Russia relations being at "an unprecedentedly high level," said a Kremlin readout. Chinese customs data show that trade between China and Russia reached $218.2 billion between January and November of 2023, meeting a goal that had originally been set for 2024, according to the Reuters news agency. In addition to that, last year Russia passed Saudi Arabia as China's top crude oil supplier, highlighting their growing energy ties as other European countries find oil alternatives amid sanctions. Ushakov said in the briefing that China and Russia are planning to continue joint energy projects this year. He added that Putin and Xi spoke about building "financial infrastructure that ensures reliability of payments." Both countries have increased trade using the Russian ruble and the Chinese yuan. During the call, the two leaders discussed the war in Ukraine and growing conflict in the Middle East. According to Reuters, Ushakov said the two leaders see "eye-to-eye," on these conflicts, but that he did not elaborate. Russia also supports China's Taiwan policies, said Ushakov. Chinese state media issued similar comments, reporting that Xi told Putin the two countries should pursue close strategic communication to defend their sovereignty and security and oppose outside interference in their internal affairs. Chinese state media also quoted Xi as saying, China and Russia had "weathered many storms together." Some information for this report was provided by Reuters and Agence France-Presse. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran FM receives Saudi King Salman's message to President Raeisi Iran Press TV Thursday, 08 February 2024 11:18 AM Iran's foreign minister has received a message from Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud addressed to President Ebrahim Raeisi. The message was handed over to Hossein Amir-Abdollahian by Saudi Arabia's Ambassador to Tehran Abdullah bin Saud al-Anzi during a meeting on Wednesday. It was a response to Raeisi's message on the developments in the Gaza Strip, where over two million Palestinians are living through a humanitarian catastrophe caused by a genocidal Israeli war. It also included congratulatory notes from King Salam and Saudi Crown Province Mohammed bin Salman on the 45th anniversary of Iran's Islamic Revolution. During the meeting, Amir-Abdollahian voiced his satisfaction with the growing Iran-Saudi relations, hoping that the ties will develop in a balanced manner in all fields. The top Iranian diplomat further said that enhanced bilateral cooperation benefits both countries and the entire region. The Saudi envoy, for his part, stressed that Riyadh views its relations with Tehran as strategic not tactical. Anzi also said that he is tasked with upgrading ties between the two countries in all sectors. Additionally, the Saudi ambassador said he is pursuing the resumption of the Umrah flights and expressed hope for the resolution of technical problems preventing Iranians from making the year-round pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. Last March, Iran and Saudi Arabia agreed under a Chinese-brokered deal to restore diplomatic relations severed in 2016. In a joint statement after signing the pact, Tehran and Riyadh highlighted the need to respect each others' national sovereignty and refrain from interfering in the internal affairs of one another. They agreed to implement a security cooperation agreement signed in April 2001 and another accord reached in May 1998 to boost economic, commercial, investment, technical, scientific, cultural, sports, and youth affairs cooperation. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary Blinken's Call with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud US Department of State Readout Office of the Spokesperson February 8, 2024 The following is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud. Secretary Blinken updated the Foreign Minister on his trip to Israel, and discussed ongoing efforts to achieve an enduring end to the crisis in Gaza that provides lasting peace and security for Israelis and Palestinians alike and the establishment of a Palestinian state with security guarantees for Israel. The Secretary and the Foreign Minister pledged to continue close coordination to increase humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Taiwan remains committed to maintaining peace, stability: Tsai ROC Central News Agency 02/08/2024 06:11 PM Taipei, Feb. 8 (CNA) Taiwan will keep working with its democratic partners to maintain peace and stability, President Tsai Ing-wen (ee) said Thursday evening, as she wished the public a happy Lunar New Year of the Dragon in a pre-recorded video message. The outgoing president made the comments in her last Lunar New Year's remarks, noting that Taiwan "will pursue cooperation and prosperity, and make Taiwan one with the world." With the collective effort of the public, Taiwan has overcome the COVID-19 pandemic and other challenges over the past few years, Tsai said, urging Taiwanese to remain "united" in the face of volatile international circumstances. The president also expressed gratitude to members of the military, law enforcement, and coast guard, as well as firefighters and medical workers for performing their duties during the Lunar New Year holiday from Feb. 8 to Feb. 14. Tsai will leave office on May 20 after eight years as president of the Republic of China (Taiwan). (By Teng Pei-ju) Enditem/AW NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China may replicate flight path adjustments in East, South China Seas: Expert ROC Central News Agency 02/08/2024 08:04 PM Taipei, Feb. 8 (CNA) China's unilateral alterations to flight paths near the Taiwan Strait median line not only undermine stability in the Taiwan Strait but also pose a threat to regional security, particularly amid concerns such maneuvers could be replicated in the East and South China Seas, a defense expert warned. The remarks by Lee Ting-sheng (), deputy executive officer at the Institute for National Defense and Security Research (INDSR), came following an announcement by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), that it was canceling its "offset" on the north-south M503 flight path on January 30. At that time, CAAC also announced the launch of the eastbound W122 and W123 paths connecting the M503 to Fuzhou and Xiamen, respectively. It claimed all these adjustments were to ease air traffic caused by an increase of flights between key locations, to ensure flight safety, and to prevent delays. The "offset" refers to an agreement reached between Taipei and Beijing in 2015 to move the M503 path 11 kilometers to the west of its original location, according to Shen Ming-shih (), a research fellow at the INDSR. As China successfully eliminates the "offset" from its M503 flight path, it could also replicate this maneuver in the East China Sea and South China Sea, with potential repercussions for the "first island chain" and the broader Indo-Pacific region, Lee Ting-sheng said at a recent national security briefing in Taipei. The first island chain encompasses a series of islands extending from countries including Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines. Beijing will initially promote what is favorable to China and subsequently take measures to broaden its sphere of influence across the East China Sea, Taiwan Strait, and South China Sea, according to Lee. This will inevitably cause regional tension, he noted. Moreover, with the removal of the offset, the M503 flight path will now be closer to Taiwan's airspace, Lee said. Given these circumstances, if Chinese civilian aircraft exploit adverse weather conditions as a pretext to move towards the median line of the strait, Taiwan could find itself in a 'boiling frog' situation," he said. Combined with the recurring instances of Chinese military aircraft crossing the median line of the strait, the airspace will witness the presence of civilian aircraft, fighter jets, bombers, surveillance, and reconnaissance aircraft, further complicating the situation, according to Lee. This becomes especially challenging when both fighter jets and civilian aircraft are simultaneously tracked on radar, he noted. When the blips of the aircraft overlap on the radar screen, it is more difficult for the Taiwanese side to distinguish between the two, Lee said. In addition, the introduction of routes W122 and W123 signifies the Chinese Communist Party's unilateral decision to allow Chinese civilian aircraft to closely align with the route commonly traversed by Taiwanese flights from Taiwan proper to the outlying islands of Kinmen and Matsu, Lee said. Also addressing the briefing, Shen echoed Lee's analysis, saying that the introduction of W122 and W123 will heighten the volatility in the Taiwan Strait. He argued that Taiwan's response time would be shortened if Chinese fighter jets or large aircraft traversed these two routes and proceeded toward Taiwan. Chen Ming-chi (), the chief executive officer at the think tank, said that China's recent actions would increase the likelihood of miscalculations and misfires. Chen argued that China's latest maneuver is political, yet it poses military risks. (By Wen Kuei-hsiang and Chung Yu-chen) Enditem/kb NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China Urges Philippines to Avoid Crossing 'Red Lines' on Taiwan Sputnik News 20240208 BEIJING (Sputnik) - The Philippines should understand that the Taiwan issue is a "red line" for China and cannot be crossed, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said on Thursday, adding that Manila should not "play with fire." On Wednesday, Philippine Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro called for the boosting of the country's military presence on the country's northernmost island of Mavulis located between the Batanes archipelago and Taiwan. "The Taiwan issue is the main one of China's core interests and a 'red line' that cannot be crossed, the relevant [persons] in the Philippines should have a clear understanding of this, act with caution, and not play with fire on the Taiwan issue to avoid being used and harmed," Wang told a briefing. China and the Philippines are neighboring countries and friendly exchanges should remain the main focus in the history of their relations, he added. In January, Teodoro announced plans to increase military activities with the United States and its allies due to China's alleged "aggressive" stance. The build-up of military capabilities will help to make an effective contribution to regional stability, the defense minister said. The same month, the Philippine and Chinese foreign ministers agreed to develop cooperation and resolve incidents in the South China Sea to reduce regional tensions. Tensions between the Philippines and China in the disputed waters of the South China Sea have been on the rise since October 4, 2023, when Philippine vessels completed a resupply mission in Second Thomas Shoal despite blocking attempts by the Chinese coast guard. Additionally, the two countries have territorial disputes over a number of islands in the South China Sea. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Finland is sending the 22nd package of military assistance worth up to EUR 190 million and is preparing a long-term plan to support Ukraine, the Finnish government press service said. "Finland is sending more defense equipment to Ukraine. The President of the Republic made a decision on this issue on February 9, 2024 at the proposal of the government. This is the 22nd shipment of military aid from Finland to Ukraine," according to the official website of the Finnish government on Friday. As noted, the total cost of the package will be approximately EUR 190 million. This package includes equipment and products made in Finland, while "separate funding in the amount of EUR 30 million will be allocated to support Ukraine." "At the national level and in a broader sense, it is necessary to find new ways to support Ukraine in the long term. We are now preparing a long-term plan to support Ukraine," Finnish Defense Minister Antti Hakkanen said, as cited by the press service. According to him, Finnish industry has a lot of know-how, "and we are working to ensure that this know-how and potential can be more effectively used in supporting Ukraine. One example of this is our domestic production of ammunition." It is also reported that Finland has decided to participate in the artillery and combat engineer coalitions operating within the framework of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, a group that coordinates arms assistance to Ukraine. "We are grateful to Finland for their steadfast support," the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense said on the X social network. UK destroyer returns home for repair after Yemeni attacks in Red Sea IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 7, 2024 London, IRNA -- The British Defense Ministry says its warship HMS Diamond has left its mission in the Red Sea to undergo a period of maintenance after it came under fire in three separate attacks by Yemen's naval forces. In a statement released on Tuesday, the ministry said HMS Diamond joined the so-called Operation Prosperity Guardian in the Red Sea in December to "protect merchant shipping in the region" and maintained a near-constant presence in the "high threat area." It said the destroyer came under fire in three separate attacks by Ansarullah forces during its mission. "HMS Diamond will now undergo a period of maintenance and resupply as HMS Richmond takes over her important mission," said Defence Secretary Grant Shapps. The US and Britain have been launching air raids on Yemen over the Arab country's retaliatory attacks against Israeli-linked ships sailing in regional waters. The government in Sana'a , which is run by the Ansarullah resistance movement, declared its support for Palestine since the Israeli regime launched the deadly war on Gaza on October 7. Yemen has vowed to continue its retaliatory measures in the Red Sea until the Israeli regime ends ground and aerial offensives against Gaza that have killed over 27,000 people in the besieged territory. 4354**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UK defence industry spending tops A25 billion for first time Defence spending with UK industry by the Ministry of Defence has topped A25 billion for the first time, official statistics have revealed. 8 February 2024 Official breakdowns show increases in almost all areas and nations Notable increases in spending recorded in Northern Ireland and Wales Figures show more than 200,000 jobs are supported through the UK's defence industry The 2022/23 statistics, published today, detail the money spent by the MOD with UK defence companies. The breadth of spending highlights the government's commitment to continually improving the defence sector, while supporting the economy and creating hundreds of thousands of jobs across the country. Yorkshire and The Humber saw a doubling in overall expenditure, the highest of all areas, while Wales saw a 25 per cent rise in the same figure. An average of A370 is being spent with the UK defence industry for each person living in the UK, showing the level of spending that helps keep the nation protected. The latest jobs figures - published in the summer - also show 209,000 UK jobs are supported through the MOD's expenditure with our defence industry. Defence Secretary, Grant Shapps said: As threats increase across the globe, it's crucial that investment in our Armed Forces matches that picture. That's why we're spending more than A50 billion annually on helping equip our military with cutting-edge capabilities, so they can continue to protect our freedoms around the clock. These statistics demonstrate how all parts of the UK are playing their part in that crucial work, delivering through our fantastic defence industry and boosting local prosperity. The UK has experienced its third consecutive year of increased spending, with the Southeast of England receiving the highest MOD Expenditure with UK Industry, followed by the Southwest. Wales and Northern Ireland saw an increased level of expenditure compared to last year's statistics, highlighting the key role the Nations play, with Scotland leading the investment with more than A2 billion spent annually. Background The stats published on Thursday 8 February regarding spend with UK industry can be found here. The latest figures on jobs supported through UK industry can be found here. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Undersecretary Kyllike Sillaste-Elling in Ukraine: Estonia reaffirms its long-term support to Ukraine and begins signing a bilateral agreement Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs 08.02.2024 Undersecretary for Political Affairs Kyllike Sillaste-Elling was on a visit to Ukraine on 6 and 7 February, meeting with Igor Zhovkva, Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine; Yevhen Perebyinis, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs; Oleksandr Ilkov, General Director of the Government Office for the Coordination of European and Euro-Atlantic Integration; and Ivanna Klympush-Tsintsadze, Chair of the the Verkhovna Rada's Committee of Ukraine's integration into the European Union. The meetings covered Ukraine's accession into the European Union and NATO, military aid from the European Union, and supporting and rebuilding Ukraine. Estonia affirmed its readiness to sign a bilateral agreement between Estonia and Ukraine as a follow-up to the G7's Vilnius Declaration signed last summer in support of Ukraine. "More than 30 countries have now joined the G7's Vilnius Declaration from last summer and are signing bilateral agreements. The agreement between Estonia and Ukraine covers all the areas where we are supporting Ukraine and shows our long-term commitment to continuing this support," the undersecretary explained. Sillaste-Elling recognised Ukraine for its commitment to joining the European Union. "In light of the historic decision made at the European Council last December, Estonia, for its part, is ready to offer every support to Ukraine's European integration," Sillaste-Elling said. "We have completed this journey as a country and we are supporting our Ukrainian colleagues based on our experience on every step of their way to European Union membership." At the meetings, Sillaste-Elling also highlighted the importance of NATO's July summit in Washington, noting that Estonia hoped to see further steps in Ukraine's accession into NATO. "Ukraine's NATO membership is essential for Euro-Atlantic security." The meetings also discussed the Ukrainian Peace Formula, which Sillaste-Elling called the only possible peace plan and which Estonia actively supports. The undersecretary also emphasised the importance of using frozen Russian assets for the benefit of Ukraine. "We are advocating for both Estonia and the European Union making progress with using frozen assets. We are the first country to draft legislation that would allow the use of frozen assets as an advance payment, and we call on other countries and the European Union to follow our lead," she said. The agenda also included the importance of establishing a special tribunal, and sanctions against Russia, and Ukrainians recognised Estonia for maintaining its initiative and the tangible steps that have already been taken. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Update 210 - IAEA Director General Statement on Situation in Ukraine International Atomic Energy Agency 12/2024 Vienna, Austria 8 Feb 2024 Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi took stock of the nuclear safety and security situation at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) in person this week as part of the ongoing efforts of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to help prevent a nuclear accident during the current conflict. During his fourth visit to the ZNPP in south-eastern Ukraine since the war began almost two years ago, Director General Grossi noted that there had been no shelling at this major facility since the establishment in May last year at the United Nations Security Council of the five concrete principles for the protection of the plant. These principles state, among others, that there should be no attack of any kind from or against the plant, and that the ZNPP should not be used as a storage or a base for heavy weapons or military personnel that could be used for an attack from the plant. But he warned against any complacency towards the very real dangers that continue to face Europe's largest nuclear power plant (NPP). Located on the frontline, it came under fire several times in 2022. It has also lost all off-site power eight times - most recently in December - forcing it to temporarily rely on emergency diesel generators to provide the power it needs for reactor cooling and other important nuclear safety and security functions. "We can see that in the observance of the five basic principles established at the United Nations Security Council, the physical integrity of the plant has been relatively stable, which is a positive development, though we take it with enormous caution," the Director General said at the site at the end of Wednesday's visit. Director General Grossi also focused on other nuclear safety and security challenges at the ZNPP, including assessing the plant's measures in recent months to find an alternative source of cooling water after the destruction in June 2023 of the downstream Kakhovka dam, draining the huge reservoir that had been providing water to the site for decades. Director General Grossi last travelled to the ZNPP just days after the dam collapsed. To provide a constant supply of water to the sprinkler ponds cooling the site's six reactors, the plant has drilled 11 wells that are now operating, as witnessed by Director General Grossi this week. "For now, with all the reactors in shutdown, the plant has sufficient water for its needs. But this is not a sustainable solution, especially if and when it starts producing electricity again," he said. Director General Grossi also raised the crucial issue of staffing at the ZNPP, following last week's announcement by the plant that from 1 February no workers employed by Ukraine's national operator Energoatom are being allowed at the site. The Director General was told at the site that the current staffing is enough considering the shutdown state of the plant and that further recruitment is ongoing. "The number of staff had already been significantly reduced from the pre-war level of some 11,500 employees. Even though the six reactor units are in shutdown, the plant still requires sufficient numbers of qualified personnel to conduct both operational tasks and to ensure that equipment important for nuclear safety and security is properly maintained. We will continue to closely monitor the situation in this regard," he said. The Director General also stressed the importance of the teams of IAEA experts present at the site since September 2022 receiving the access they need to monitor adherence to the five concrete principles and also to assess the seven pillars of nuclear safety and security that he outlined early in the conflict, something which has not always been the case. "It is important that they have access and can ask questions. There were situations where there were suggestions that they look but not talk. That is not good," he said. In a positive step, the ZNPP has informed the IAEA experts that they can visit all the main reactor control rooms. Director General Grossi also went to one of the large turbine halls - of unit 4 - during his visit, as well as the same reactor's control room, where the presence of experienced staff is especially important. This unit is the only one that is currently in hot shutdown to produce steam and heating, including for the nearby town of Enerhodar, while the five other reactors are in cold shutdown. He was also able to see the four new diesel steam generators, which recently started operating. The IAEA has been informed that the steam generated by the new equipment will be used to process liquid waste at the plant. The ZNPP has not yet confirmed whether the steam generated by this new equipment will enable it to also place unit 4 in cold shutdown. Earlier this week, the IAEA team of experts observed liquid waste being treated in a special building, using the steam from the new diesel steam generators. Accompanying the Director General, a new group of IAEA experts replaced the previous Agency team at the site. It is the 16th team of the IAEA Support and Assistance Mission to Zaporizhzhya (ISAMZ) since it was established on 1 September 2022. Director General Grossi said the visit had confirmed the crucial role of the IAEA's permanent presence at the site and that its job was not yet done. "Until the conflict ends without a nuclear accident with radiological consequences, we will not be able to say that our job is complete. We continue and today has been an important part of this effort," he added. The IAEA teams stationed at the other four sites in Ukraine continue to perform their activities despite frequent air raid alarms. The team at the Khmelnytskyy NPP was required to take shelter yesterday. The IAEA is also continuing to support nuclear safety and security in Ukraine by delivering equipment and other assistance. In the past two weeks, two new deliveries took place, taking the total so far to 36. Thanks to funding by the United Kingdom, new equipment has been provided to the Rivne and South Ukraine NPPs as well as to the Izotop facility for radiation protection purposes or to complement available physical protection measures. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine's Zelensky removes army chief amid war with Russia Iran Press TV Thursday, 08 February 2024 7:15 PM Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has removed the top military commander Valery Zaluzhny in what seems to be a major shake-up of the country's war strategy in the third year of the conflict with Russia. Defense Minister Rustem Umerov announced the news in a statement on Thursday while Zelensky had already hinted at a change in Ukraine's tactics against Russia. "Today, a decision was made to change the leadership of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. I am sincerely grateful to Valery Fedorovych (Zaluzhny) for all his achievements and victories," the defense minister said on social media. Zaluzhny had led the Ukrainian army since the beginning of the war in February 2022. The commander's removal comes at a time Ukraine grapples with shortages of ammunition and personnel. The 50-year-old general - dubbed the "Iron General" by Ukrainian media - was popular nationwide and among his comrades but the failure of a much-anticipated counteroffensive last summer and public disagreement with the Ukrainian president tarnished his reputation at Zelensky's office. "Today we had a frank discussion about what needs to change in the army. Urgent changes," Zelensky said in a statement on social media. "I have offered General Zaluzhny to continue to be part of the team of the Ukrainian state. I would be grateful for his consent." Zelensky also said Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, who commanded Ukraine's lightning autumn 2022 counteroffensive in the northeastern Kharkiv region, would replace Zaluzhny as the army chief. Zelensky appears resolute in seeking urgent changes. It has been a year of deadlocked trench warfare, with Russian troops persistently pressing against outmanned Ukrainian forces across the sprawling front. Most of the Ukrainian attacks against Russia are reportedly carried out by Western-supplied ammunition. The West, the United States in particular, has supplied Ukraine with tens of billions of dollars' worth of weapons and munitions. Moscow has repeatedly warned against flooding Kiev with weapons and munitions, saying it will only prolong the conflict. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Zelenskiy Names New Ukrainian Military Commander, Says It's Time For 'Renewal' By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service February 08, 2024 KYIV -- President Volodymyr Zelenskiy appointed Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskiy as the Ukrainian Army's commander in chief just minutes after announcing it was time for a "renewal" and "renewed leadership" of the country's armed forces. In his statement on February 8, Zelenskiy said Syrskiy "has successful defense experience -- he conducted the Kyiv defense operation. He also has successful offensive experience -- the Kharkiv liberation operation." The Russia-born, 58-year-old Syrskiy, who has served as the commander of Ukrainian ground forces since 2019, replaces General Valeriy Zaluzhniy following reports that Zelenskiy was strongly considering removing him. Zelenksiy said in a message on X, formerly Twitter, that is he grateful to Zaluzhniy and he appreciates "every victory we have achieved together." Before announcing the leadership change, Zelenskiy said he had "candidly discussed" with Zaluzhniy issues in the army that require urgent change. "Starting today, a new management team will take over leadership of the armed forces of Ukraine. I had dozens of conversations with commanders at various levels," he said, adding that the move "is not about surnames, and surely not about politics." The change in leadership is about the management of the military and "about involving the experience of this war's combat-hardened commanders," he said, touting Syrskiy's successful experience, particularly in the defense of Kyiv and his successful offensive experience, particularly in the Kharkiv liberation operation. Defense Minister Rustem Umerov noted Zaluzhniy's role in the first two years of the full-scale Russian invasion, saying "our soldiers repelled the onslaught of the aggressor, defended our statehood, and continue to defend our independence every day." He said he was grateful for Zaluzhniy's achievements and victories, but war changes and demands change. "The battles of 2022, 2023, and 2024 are three different realities [and] 2024 will bring new changes for which we must be ready," Umerov said. "New approaches, new strategies are needed." Syrskiy was one of the main commanders who led the Ukrainian armed forces' fight against the offensives by Russia-backed separatists that started in 2014 shortly after Russia illegally annexed Ukraine's Crimea. After Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Syrskiy led the Ukrainian armed forces' successful counteroffensive to regain control over the Kharkiv region in September of that year. In April 2022, Syrskiy's successful leadership in defending the Ukrainian capital earned him the title Hero of Ukraine, bestowed under a decree signed by Zelenskiy. Zelenskiy met earlier on February 8 with Zaluzhniy and said he had asked him to remain "on the team," though he didn't say in what capacity. Zaluzhniy wrote on Telegram on February 8 that he and Zelenskiy "made a decision on the necessity to change approaches and strategy" in Ukraine's fight against Russia's ongoing aggression. Speculation had swirled for weeks that Zelenskiy would remove Zaluzhniy over differences in strategy and Ukraine's struggle to hold battlefield positions after a failed counteroffensive last year. Tensions between Zaluzhniy and Zelenskiy surfaced in November after the commander in chief published an opinion piece in The Economist saying the war had entered a stalemate and only a technological breakthrough would allow Ukraine to achieve its goals of liberating occupied territory. Zelenskiy's office was quick to reject that battlefield assessment. Polls showed earlier that Zaluzhniy's popularity in the country is as high, if not more so, than Zelenskiy's, and some experts suggested that if Zelenskiy decided to oust Zaluzhniy, it would demoralize some of Ukraine troops and undermine national unity. Zelenskiy said in his message on X that in his discussion with Zaluzhniy on February 8 he proposed that the general continue working "on the Ukrainian state team" in an unspecified capacity. "I will be grateful for his acceptance of this proposal," Zelenskiy said. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-zelenskiy-zaluzhny- military-renewal-syrskiy-/32811124.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Investigation: China's Hikvision, Dahua Security Cameras Heighten Risks Of Russian Attacks On Ukraine By Kyrylo Ovsyaniy February 08, 2024 KYIV -- As Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine nears the two-year mark, hundreds of thousands of Chinese-made Hikvision and Dahua video-surveillance cameras, used by government-run security systems, residences, and private companies throughout Ukraine, heighten the risks of attacks by the Russian military, Ukrainian digital-security experts and government officials fear. When Russian missiles struck Kyiv in a January 2 attack that killed at least three people, two ordinary outdoor CCTV cameras - one for a condominium, the other for a parking lot -- helped guide their way, the State Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) claims. After hacking the cameras, Russian intelligence used them "to spy on the Defense Forces in the capital" and to record images of "critical infrastructure facilities," according to the SBU. One of those cameras was a 2016 Chinese-made Hikvision device, a law enforcement official who requested anonymity because of the sensitivity of the subject told Schemes, the investigative unit of RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service. "Such cameras are usually just connected to the Internet and are already relatively outdated -- that is, with software that has not been updated for a long time and has many known vulnerabilities," said Serhiy Denysenko, executive director of the Ukrainian information-security company CyberLab's Digital Forensics Laboratory. Manufacturers' "basic" camera software means that "hackers -- or, in this case, the Russian special services - who are scanning the Internet can find this camera and gain access to it," Denysenko said. To test the SBU's claims, a Digital Forensics Laboratory specialist hacked into a 2015 Hikvision CCTV camera in about 15 minutes. From 2014 to 2022, three Ukrainian companies imported over 875,000 CCTV cameras and other devices related to video surveillance made by Hikvision, and a single company imported nearly 1.1 million cameras and other devices related to video surveillance made by Dahua, according to data from the import-export database ImportGenius. Other companies also imported smaller numbers of devices made by Hikvision and Dahua, which dominate the world video-surveillance market and rank as Ukraine's most frequently imported CCTV cameras. They also rank among the world's most controversial cameras -- in 2022, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission prohibited future authorizations for the import or sale of Hikvision and Dahua "communications equipment" as "an unacceptable risk to national security." Australia, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, and other countries have also imposed bans or restrictions on the cameras' use. Such regulations do not exist in Ukraine, though in 2023 it named both Hikvision and Dahua Technology "international sponsors of war" for tax payments to Moscow and sales of equipment that have military applications. A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson told Reuters on February 1 that China "firmly opposes" the inclusion of 14 Chinese companies on that list, and "demands that Ukraine immediately correct its mistakes and eliminate negative impacts." It did not address the issue of potential consequences from the hacking of Chinese CCTV cameras. Vulnerable To Hacking Hikvision and Dahua cameras and software account for 74 percent of the CCTV systems used in Ukraine's national video-surveillance system for roads, streets, parks, apartment buildings, and other public spaces, Bezpechne Misto (Safe City), according to the Interior Ministry. Another 24,000 Hikvision and Dahua cameras are used in similar public surveillance systems, the Interior Ministry told Schemes in response to a query. Russian-supplied TRASSIR video surveillance systems -- which, as Schemes reported in December, have been used at the shuttered Chernobyl nuclear power plant as well as several Ukrainian cities and sensitive facilities such as the Administration of Sea Ports of Ukraine in Odesa -- in many cases use Hikvision cameras, though the software is TRASSIR's own. Schemes asked President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's office, the cabinet of ministers, the National Security and Defense Council, and the SBU whether they believe these cameras pose a security risk and whether Kyiv plans to remove the devices from Ukraine. None has responded. Experiments run for Schemes by the Digital Forensics Laboratory and the Digital Security Laboratory, a Kyiv NGO, indicated that Hikvision and Dahua cameras are vulnerable to hacking and that they send encrypted data to servers controlled by state-run or partly state-run Chinese companies. A 2015 Hikvision camera accepted the easily hackable password "1234567890" as a login. A 2023 Hikvision model required a more complex password with symbols, but sent some encrypted user and registration data to a server in China owned by ChinaNet, a state-owned Internet service provider. A 2019 Dahua camera, even when its cloud-server connection was switched off, still sent encrypted information, including the user's login and password, to cloud servers in Germany run by China's uCloud Information Technology, a partly state-owned company, and the private U.S. firm Zenlayer. The security of CCTV transfers depends on the manufacturer, the connection with the server, and "who can use this information and how," said Digital Security Laboratory expert Ivan Antonyuk. "And here's the question: Do you trust the Chinese developer or not?" Though the information is encrypted, "decoding such information will not pose a problem for the manufacturer and developer of these cameras," Denysenko emphasized. "Our experts are convinced that when using such a service, access to the cameras can be easily obtained by the manufacturer's representatives if necessary," he said. "Also, taking into account the current relations between China and Russia, this may carry certain security risks." Schemes did not find direct evidence that China transferred images from Chinese CCTV cameras in Ukraine to the Russian military, but the legal framework exists for such transfers. China, whose ties with Russia are described by both countries as a "no limits" strategic partnership, does not publicly support Russia's war against Ukraine. 'Powerless To Protect Users' China's national intelligence law stipulates that companies hand data over to the government if needed for security reasons. Beijing has "essentially unfettered" access to China's Internet servers, CPO Magazine, a Singaporean website that tracks data privacy, commented. "Chinese companies are powerless to protect users from digital rights violations by one of the most powerful -- and unaccountable -- governments in the world," researchers for Ranking Digital Rights, an international project by the Washington-based think tank New America, wrote in 2020. Hikvision's largest shareholder, with 36.35 percent according to the company's website, is the China Electronics Technology HIK Group, which is a full subsidiary of the state-run China Electronic Technology Corporation Group. That firm, known as CETC, lists on its website its contributions to China's defense industry, including "electronic warfare" and UAVs, or drones. Dahua Technology also has a significant government shareholder: The state-owned China Mobile, a telecommunications firm, owns roughly 9.5 percent of the company. Dahua has said that China Mobile does not have "operational control" or "undue influence over its decision making." In 2022, the U.S. Department of Defense designated both Dahua and Hikvision, as well as their state-owned co-owners China Mobile and CETC, as "Chinese military companies" -- corporations whose technical skills the Chinese military uses. A July 2023 report from the U.S. Office of the Director of National Intelligence found that, despite international sanctions and export restrictions, China "is providing some dual-use technology that Moscow's military uses to continue the war in Ukraine." Intelligence sharing also makes up part of China and Russia's 2021-2025 Road Map to Military Cooperation, the Congressional Research Service noted. Schemes contacted Hikvision and Dahua about the security of their cameras in Ukraine and about whether the companies cooperate with Russia, but has not received a response. The U.S. subsidiary of Dahua Technology, however, claimed in July 2023 that the tech giant only sends "peripheral products and accessories" to Russia and that "none of our products globally are currently designed for military use." The SBU said on January 2 that it has blocked more than 10,000 CCTV cameras in Ukraine since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022. Responding to a query from Schemes in January, Ukraine's Interior Ministry said that it "does not recommend or approve" purchases of Hikvision and Dahua CCTV cameras and is seeking to ensure that those used in government-controlled video-surveillance systems are replaced. According to Ukraine's public-procurement database Prozorro, some government bodies, such as the Kyiv region's Zolochiv village council, started breaking contracts for the cameras, citing security concerns after Hikvision and Dahua were named "international sponsors of war." Existing government-run surveillance systems that use Hikvision and Dahua cameras were deliberately placed "in a closed local network" without access to "the public Internet" in order "to prevent the risks of information leakage" to China, the Interior Ministry said. The ministry has proposed a bill for a "unified" public CCTV system that would function with Ukrainian and Israeli-made software, but it has not yet come to a vote. Written by Elizabeth Owen based on reporting by Kyrylo Ovsyaniy of Schemes Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-cameras-china-security-risks- hikvision-dahua-schemes-investigation/32810571.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine Downs 11 Russian Drones; Atomic Watchdog Chief Says Less Shelling At Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Plant By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service February 08, 2024 Ukraine says its air defenses said shot down 11 out of 17 drones launched by Russia at four regions -- Mykolayiv, Odesa, Vinnytsya, and Dnipropetrovsk -- early on February 8, but regional authorities reported that the attack caused damage to infrastructure. The head of the Vinnytsya region, Serhiy Borzov, said falling debris from a Russian drone caused a fire at an infrastructure facility. The fire was eventually contained, Borzov wrote on Telegram. In the southern Ukrainian port city of Odesa, a high-rise building still under construction was partially damaged, but there were no casualties, regional governor Oleh Kiper reported on Telegram. Meanwhile, UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi has welcomed a reduction in shelling around the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant in southeastern Ukraine and inspected wells to determine if there was sufficient water for cooling. Grossi noted the lower level of combat operations around the plant in a video posted on the website of the International Atomic Energy Agency. "The physical integrity of the plant has been relatively stable," Grossi said in the video. Grossi said an inspection of water supplies was important after the destruction last year of the Nova Kakhovka hydroelectric facility, which had previously provided water for the power plant. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-drones-drowned- zaporizhzhya-nuclear-grossi-water/32810482.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia, Ukraine Conduct 100-for-100 Prisoner Swap With UAE Mediation Sputnik News 20240208 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russia has returned 100 prisoners of war from the territory under Kiev's control, following negotiations, while Kiev also received 100 prisoners in exchange, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Thursday. "On February 8, 2024, in the result of a negotiating process, 100 Russian soldiers were returned from the territory under Kiev's control, where they faced mortal danger. In exchange, 100 military prisoners of the Ukrainian armed forces were returned [to Kiev]," the ministry said in a statement. The United Arab Emirates has played a mediation role in the exchange, the ministry said. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Zaluzhny Removed as Ukraine's Commander-in-Chief, Replaced by Col. Gen. Oleksandr Syrsky Sputnik News 20240208 Ilya Tsukanov The general's ouster comes after months of intrigue between himself and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who slammed the commander for revealing that Kiev's summer 2023 counteroffensive had ended in failure. Ukrainian Armed Forces Commander-in-Chief Valery Zaluzhny has left his post as the Ukraine's top general, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov has announced. "General Valery Zaluzhny had one of the most difficult tasks - to lead the Armed Forces of Ukraine during the Great War with Russia," Umerov wrote in a social media post Thursday evening. "But war does not remain the same. War changes and demands change. Battles of 2022, 2023 and 2024 are three different realities. 2024 will bring new changes for which we must be ready. New approaches, new strategies are needed," he added. "Today, a decision was made on the need to change the leadership of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. I am sincerely grateful to Valery Fedorovych for all his achievements and victories," Umerov wrote. Earlier in the day, Zaluzhny and Zelensky published photos to their respective social media confirming that they had met. "I have just met with the supreme commander. We had an important and serious conversation. A decision was made about the need to change approaches and strategy. I am grateful to all those close to me, to the team at the General Staff, the Defense Ministry, the president of Ukraine," Zaluzhny wrote in his post. "I have met with General Valery Zaluzhny. I thanked him for two years in the defense of Ukraine. We discussed the kind of renewal required by the Armed Forces. We discussed who could be present in the updated leadership of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The time for such an update is now," Zelensky said in his post. In a video address Thursday evening, Zelensky confirmed that Zaluzhny had been dismissed, and announced that he would be replaced as commander-in-chief of Ukraine's armed forces by Colonel-General Oleksandr Syrsky, an officer who has served as commander of Ukraine's Ground Forces since 2019. Zelensky said he came to his decision after "dozens of conversations with commanders at various levels," and claimed that "the year 2024 can be one of successes for Ukraine only pending effective changes in the foundation of our defense, which the Armed Forces of Ukraine embody." Who is Oleksandr Syrsky? Born in 1965 in the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic and moving to the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic in 1980, Syrsky began his military service in 1986 as a commander of a motorized rifle platoon. A graduate of the Moscow Higher Combined Arms Command School, he served in the Soviet military in Afghanistan, Tajikistan and Czechoslovakia. After the Soviet Union's dissolution in 1991, Syrsky gradually rose through the ranks of the Ukrainian military. With the outbreak of the Ukrainian civil conflict in the Donbass in 2014, Syrsky was appointed deputy chief of the Main Command Center of the Armed Forces, with responsibilities including coordination of cooperation with NATO, and tapped as chief of staff of the so-called 'Anti-Terrorist Operation' meant to crush Donbass militias resisting Kiev's post-Maidan coup government. In 2016, he was appointed the head of the Joint Operational Headquarters of Ukraine's Armed Forces and promoted to the rank of lieutenant general. He was promoted again to his current rank of colonel general in August 2020. After the escalation of the Ukrainian crisis into a full-fledged Russia-NATO proxy war in Ukraine, Syrsky was charged with maneuvering Ukrainian forces into areas of Kiev region which Russian forces voluntarily pulled back from in accordance with efforts to reach a peace deal in the spring of 2022. In September 2022, after Russian forces pulled back from Kharkov region to shore up defensive lines elsewhere along the front, Syrsky again commanded Ukrainian forces. From the fall of 2022 to the spring of 2023, Syrsky was tasked with commanding Ukrainian forces in Soledar and Artemovsk (Bakhmut), strategic Donbass settlements which were ultimately liberated by Russian forces in difficult and bloody street-to-street and house-to-house fighting. Zaluzhny-Zelensky Spat Zaluzhny's removal comes in the wake of a months-long spat between himself and Zelensky. The public spat began in November of 2023, when Zaluzhny penned an article for The Economist in which he admitted that there would be no "deep and beautiful breakthrough" in Ukraine's counteroffensive and suggested that the conflict with Russia had reached a "stalemate." Zelensky initially refused to admit that the counteroffensive had failed, but later confirmed that Ukraine would be shifting to a new "defensive" strategy. The Zaluzhny-Zelensky conflict was punctuated by the sacking of Zaluzhny allies, the mysterious bomb explosion death of one of the commander's key aides, and the poisoning of the wife of Ukrainian military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov. In a new essay for CNN published last week, Zaluzhny envisioned the future of the proxy conflict between NATO and Russia in Ukraine as one filled with "cheap, modern and highly effective, unmanned vehicles and other technological means," which he hinted could be used in everything from battlefield operations to terror bombings of Russian infrastructure to reach "psychological objectives. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address On February 8, the High Anti-Corruption Court (HACC) upheld the claim of the Ukrainian Ministry of Justice against Ivan Savvidi, owner of diversified holding company Agrocom, as well as his wife, Kiriyaki Savvidi, for the recovery of assets from food packaging enterprises into the income of Ukraine, the Ministry of Justice said on its website. HACC applied a measure provided for by the "On Sanctions" Law of Ukraine to Savvidi and his wife and recovered 100% of the shares of PrJSC Pentopak and 100% of the charter capital of the Atlantis-Pack Ukraine enterprise as state income, the Ministry of Justice said. "Savvidi Ivan is a Russian entrepreneur of Greek origin who has a close connection with the authorities of the Russian Federation and the ruling party "United Russia." Savvidi is the president of the Federal National-Cultural Autonomy of the Greeks of Russia, through which he provides ideological support for the actions of the aggressor state by glorifying the president of the aggressor state and military personnel participating in military operations in Ukraine," the Ministry of Justice said in a press release on Friday. The statement of claim was prepared by the Ministry of Justice of Ukraine based on materials from the State Bureau of Investigation and other government bodies, as well as information from public organizations, the ministry said. Kiriyaki Savvidi owns the assets through Kosteram Holdings Limited. Ivan Savvidi has the right to dispose of them and is the actual owner of the business, the ministry said. An appeal against the HACC decision can be filed within five days from the date of announcement of the decision, the court recalled. Ivan Savvidi is a member of the Council for Interethnic Relations under the President of the Russian Federation, and is president of the national-cultural autonomy of Greeks of Russia. Agrocom was founded in 2004. The group includes about 60 enterprises in the food industry, agriculture, packaging industry and retail trade. One of the group's key enterprises is Industrial and Commercial Company Atlantis-Pak, the largest manufacturer of plastic sausage casings in Russia. The group's management company was created in 2004 and is based in Rostov-on-Don. Most of the enterprises are located in Russia's Southern Federal District. Divisions and branches of the companies operate throughout Russia and in other countries. As reported on the Pentopak website, the company has been operating on the Ukrainian polyamine packaging market since 1998, providing a full cycle of packaging materials production, sales and after-sales service. The company's products are used for packaging products in the meat processing industry. Atlantis-Pack Ukraine is a subsidiary of Atlantis-Pack, specializing in the production of packaging for the food industry. Russian Troops Destroyed Over 12,000 Ukrainian Drones Since Start of Special Op - MoD Sputnik News 20240208 On Thursday, the Russian Ministry of Defense (MoD) shared the latest developments on the course of the special operation. "Since the start of the special military operation Russian troops have destroyed a total of 570 [enemy] aircraft, 265 helicopters, 12,040 UAVs, 462 surface-to-air missiles, 14,938 tanks and other armored combat vehicles, 1,218 MLRS (multiple launch rocket system) vehicles, 7,995 artillery and mortar units, as well as 18,369 special military vehicles," the MoD said. Advancing Onward Through the Donetsk Region The MoD also reported on the fact that Russian forced have gained better strategic ground throughout the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR). "In the Donetsk Region, Russian units from the Battlegroup Yug took up better positions, and also hammered troops and equipment belonging to Ukraine's 22nd and 92nd Mechanized Brigades near Kleshcheevka and Andreyevka in the DPR," the MoD added. The MoD report also said that Ukrainian military lost up to 310 soldiers, a tank and four vehicles. During a counter battery mission, Russian units destroyed a US-made M777 artillery system, a Polish-made Krab self-propelled artillery system, a D-20 howitzer, a D-30 weapon and a MT-12 anti-tank gun. Developments in the Kherson and Krasny Liman Regions In the last 24 hours, Russian units hit up to 25 Ukrainian soldiers, a US-made HIMARS MLRS combat vehicle, as well as a Polish-made Krab self-propelled artillery system in the Kherson area, the MoD noted. "In Kherson Russian troops hammered units from Ukraine's 35th Marine Brigade and 121st Territorial Defense Brigade near Tokarevo and Zolotaya Balka settlements. The enemy lost up to 25 soldiers and three vehicles. During a counter battery fight, Russian troops struck a US-made HIMARS MLRS combat vehicle, as well as a Polish-made Krab self-propelled artillery system," the MoD underlined. Ukraine has also lost up to 230 soldiers in the Krasny Liman area, as well as over 155 soldiers south of Donetsk direction, the MoD stated. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukrainian Military Suffering Severe Shortage of Infantry, as Morale Plummets - Report Sputnik News 20240208 The Ukrainian government introduced a new bill on mobilization in the Verkhovna Rada on January 30. On Wednesday, the parliament passed it in the first reading. Ukrainian troops are experiencing an acute shortage of infantry, the military is physically exhausted, and its morale is falling, US newspaper The Washington Post reported, citing soldiers and commanders of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The Ukrainian military believes the shortage of personnel could have a domino effect, especially in winter, when weather conditions are difficult. "You can feel that people are morally and physically exhausted," the publication quoted a Ukrainian commander, who identified himself as Sergei, as saying. Battalion commander Alexander told the publication that no one is joining the army, because "the state has failed to explain to them that they should go there." A lack of ammunition and weapons is also a problem for Ukrainian troops. According to one commander, his unit had received only 10 shells for two howitzers. The reports of acute troop shortages come as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is reportedly preparing to replace his military chief, General Valery Zaluzhny. The question of how many new soldiers Ukraine needs to mobilize has been among the major stumbling blocks between the two. Zaluzhny previously told Zelensky that Ukraine needs nearly 500,000 new troops, but the latter privately and publicly pushed back on that figure. The draft law on mobilization was supported by Ukraine's parliament, the Verkhovna Rada, in the first reading on Wednesday. Unlike a previous version, it does not provide for the conscription of disabled people, but it significantly tightens the process itself. Martial law was introduced in Ukraine on February 24, 2022. The next day, Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree on general mobilization. Under martial law, men aged from 18 to 60 are prohibited from leaving Ukraine. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Air Defenses Down Ukrainian Drone Over Crimea Sputnik News 20240208 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russian air defenses on duty destroyed a Ukrainian drone over the territory of Crimea, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Thursday. "An attempt by the Kiev regime to carry out a terrorist attack using an aircraft-type UAV against facilities on the territory of the Russian Federation has been foiled tonight. The Ukrainian UAV was destroyed over the territory of the Republic of Crimea by the air defense systems on duty," the ministry said in a statement. Ukraine has been sending drones and missiles into the Russian territory almost daily since it launched a counteroffensive in early June. The United Nations said in August, following a botched drone strike on Moscow, that it did not want to see any targeting of civilian infrastructure. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia's unprovoked, illegal war is an attack on Ukraine, a sovereign, democratic state and an attack on the OSCE's founding principles: UK statement to the OSCE Ambassador Neil Holland welcomes the visit of OSCE Chair in Office, Foreign Minister Borg, to Ukraine and condemns Russia's aggression which is in complete violation of international law. 8 February 2024 Thank you, Madam Chair. Firstly, I would like to welcome the visit of our Chair in Office, Foreign Minister Borg, to Ukraine where the Minister underlined his support for Ukraine. We note President Zelenskyy and Foreign Minister Kuleba's expressions of support for OSCE work, in particular on the return of Ukrainian children and the role of participating States in documenting Russia's egregious actions against Ukraine. The UK is fully committed in supporting you to take forward these priorities. Last week, the Russian Federation attempted to justify Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine by referencing Article 51 of the UN Charter. This Article states, quote: 'Nothing in the present Charter shall impair the inherent right of individual or collective self-defence if an armed attack occurs against a Member of the United Nations, until the Security Council has taken measures necessary to maintain international peace and security.' The operative clause here is 'if an armed attack occurs against a member of the United Nations'. The only armed attack that took place in February 2022 was by Russia on Ukraine on 24 February. So, no. Russia cannot claim that its so-called 'Special Military Operation' is an exercise of the right of self-defence, in line with Article 51 of the UN Charter. On the contrary. It is Russia's actions which comprise egregious violations of international law, including the prohibition on the use of force at Article 2(4) of the UN Charter. And to pretend otherwise is disinformation. Russia's unprovoked, illegal war is, of course, far more than an attack on Ukraine. It is also an attack on the founding principles of this organisation. These are the pillars on which European security has been built and they are principles to which all of us in this room willingly agreed. We all therefore have a duty to defend these principles. And the best way that Russia can do that right now is to withdraw from the sovereign territory of Ukraine and come back into line with the Helsinki Final Act and the UN Charter. Madam Chair, it is Russia that started this war, and it is Russia that can choose to end this war. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UK response to the President of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly: UK statement to the OSCE, February 2024 Ambassador Neil Holland thanks the President of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly for the Assembly's important election observation role and enduring support for Ukraine. 8 February 2024 Madam President, on behalf of the United Kingdom, welcome back to the Permanent Council. Thank you for your address. We welcome the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly's continued focus on Ukraine. As we approach two years since Russia launched its illegal, invasion we will not waiver in our support for Ukraine. We are working in lockstep with the Chair and others to ensure the war remains high on the OSCE's agenda. We will continue to deploy the OSCE's toolkit extensively to counter Russia's disinformation and shine a spotlight on its illegal actions. We see the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly's role as critical in these efforts, both in terms of the PA's Parliamentary Support Team for Ukraine, but also through parliamentarians' engagement in Capitals. We all have a responsibility to ensure our governments recognise the enduring value of the OSCE as a forum for dialogue and conflict resolution, as well as the need to support Ukraine. In this regard, we welcome the engagement you've done personally, including through your visits to the participating States. Beyond the conflict, the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly faces an unprecedented year. 2024 will prove a record-breaking year for elections globally. Over 4 billion voters across the world will head to the polls, marking a colossal exercise in democratic participation. The manner in which these elections are conducted and their outcome will have significant implications for global politics and stability, and trust in democratic institutions and processes. Many of these elections will be held in our region and we welcome the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly's observation role. It is an integral part of democratic scrutiny, supporting electoral integrity and documenting whether elections are credible and inclusive. Just yesterday, OSCE PA members were in Azerbaijan observing its Presidential elections. I thank Vice-President De Ridder and Vice-Chair Gerasymov for leading the delegations and look forward to their findings. We note the Parliamentary Assembly's continued concerns about the institutional health of the organisation. We share these concerns. We welcome the consensus on support for Malta as this year's Chair. We will continue to press for a more sustainable financial settlement for the organisation and work to appoint strong candidates to its four top leadership positions. Beyond this, we recognise the need for longer term solutions and political commitment to ensuring the OSCE's effective functioning and relevance. In this regard, we welcome the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly and its members' continued efforts in highlighting Russia's and Belarus' obstruction and undermining tactics. Madam President, to conclude, the UK thanks you and the Assembly for the work you are doing. We offer our full support and look forward to continued co-operation and collaboration in 2024. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Another 100 Ukrainian warriors returned home from Russian captivity; most of them are defenders of Mariupol and Azovstal - address by the President of Ukraine President of Ukraine 8 February 2024 - 21:24 I wish you health, fellow Ukrainians! The exchange has just taken place - another hundred of our warriors have returned home to Ukraine from Russian captivity. Soldiers and sergeants. Most of them are defenders of Mariupol and Azovstal. Warriors of the National Guard, the Border Guard Service, and the Armed Forces of Ukraine. In total, three thousand one hundred and thirty-five Ukrainians have been released from Russian captivity as of today. I am grateful to our entire team working on the exchanges. Kyrylo Budanov and everyone in the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine involved in the exchanges. Andriy Yermak and the team of the Office. Dmytro Usov and the entire Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War. Everyone who is involved, everyone who helps. Dmytro Lubinets and the Ombudsman's team. Ihor Klymenko and the team of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Vasyl Maliuk and the team of the Security Service of Ukraine. And of course, my special gratitude goes to all our warriors on the front line, to each unit that replenishes the "exchange fund" and captures Russian invaders. Everyone in their position ensures this common success, the success of Ukraine. That's how it should be. We always remember our people in captivity - each and every one of them. We must liberate them all. We work towards this every day. And I extend my gratitude to everyone around the world who assists us, particularly the United Arab Emirates, for supporting such exchanges. Glory to Ukraine! NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Starting today, a new management team takes over the leadership of the Armed Forces of Ukraine - address by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy President of Ukraine 8 February 2024 - 18:38 Dear Ukrainians! Today I met with Commander-in-Chief Valerii Zaluzhnyi. This was one of hundreds of conversations we had during this war. Almost two years of continuous analysis of each situation. We discussed the frontline. Threats, directions, all the challenges. Avdiivka - the extraordinary actions of our warriors and the extraordinary difficulties in defending the city. The Zaporizhzhia direction. A very tough one. Southern directions. Challenges of the Kharkiv region. And our capabilities. Ukraine's capabilities this year. During the third year of the full-scale war. We must make this year a crucial one. Crucial for achieving Ukraine's goals in the war. Russia cannot simply accept the existence of an independent Ukraine - the very fact of our country's independent life. But Russia will have to come to terms with our strength. The experience of two years of this war has convinced us that it is only Russia's defeats that bring peace closer. Each year of this war has its own nature. We withstood the first year. We started to reclaim our ground. We proved to the world that Russia can lose. In the second year of this war, we won the Black Sea. We won the winter. We proved that we can regain control of the Ukrainian sky. But, unfortunately, we failed to achieve the goals of our state on land. We have to be honest - the feeling of stagnation specifically in the southern directions and the difficulties in the battles in the Donetsk region have affected the public mood. Ukrainians are speaking of victory less often. However, the Ukrainian spirit has not lost faith in victory. Ukraine retains its historic chance. It is our duty to realize it. This year should be the time of Ukraine - the time when every Ukrainian warrior will know, as before, that the Ukrainian state and the Ukrainian army are capable of winning. I am grateful to General Zaluzhnyi for two years of defense. I am grateful for every victory we have achieved together and thanks to all Ukrainian warriors who heroically bear the brunt of this war. Today we had a frank discussion about the changes needed in the army. Urgent changes. I offered General Zaluzhnyi to continue to be part of the Ukrainian state team. I would be grateful for his consent. Today I have decided to renew the leadership of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This is not about surnames. And certainly not about politics. This is about the system of our army, about management in the Armed Forces of Ukraine and about attracting the experience of battlefield commanders of this war. Every soldier, every sergeant, and every officer who sees the frontline understands what decisions are needed. The army's actions must become much more technologically advanced. The generalship must be reset. Headquarters at all levels must know and feel the frontline just like soldiers at the forefront. The battlefield commanders of this war, the commanders from the forefront must realize their special experience at the level of the entire army - in leadership positions. The Ukrainian Defense Forces are now almost a million people who were called up to defend our country. As of today, the majority of them have not felt the frontline in the same way as the minority who are actually at the forefront, actually fighting. This means that we need a different approach to rotations in particular. A different approach to frontline management. A different approach to mobilization and recruitment. All this will give more respect to the soldier. And restore clarity to actions in the war. Fellow Ukrainians! Starting today, a new management team takes over the leadership of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. I want our warriors in Robotyne or Avdiivka, the General Staff and the Staff to have the same vision of the war. Everyone whose experience will now serve the renewal of the Armed Forces is being carefully selected. I have had dozens of conversations with commanders of various levels. In particular, today I spoke with Brigadier Generals Andriy Hnatov, Mykhailo Drapatyi, Ihor Skibiuk, and Colonels Pavlo Pallisa and Vadym Sukharevskyi. All of them are being considered for leadership positions in the army. And they will serve under the leadership of the most experienced Ukrainian commander, the battlefield commander, Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi. He has successful experience in defense - he led the Kyiv defense operation. He also has a successful experience of the offensive - the Kharkiv liberation operation. I have appointed Colonel General Syrskyi as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Today I spoke with Generals Moysiuk and Zabrodskyi. Their experience will serve the country. I expect the following changes in the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the near future: A realistic, detailed action plan for the Armed Forces of Ukraine for 2024 must be presented. It must take into account the real situation on the battlefield now and the prospects. Each combat brigade on the first line must receive effective Western weapons, and there must be a fair redistribution of such weapons in favor of the first line. The logistics problems must be resolved. Avdiivka must not wait for the generals to find out which warehouses the drones are stuck in. Every general must know the front. If a general does not know the front, he does not serve Ukraine. The excessive and unjustified number of personnel in the headquarters must be adjusted. An effective rotation system must be established in the army. The experience of certain combat brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and units of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine, where such a system is in place, can be used as a basis. Rotations are a must. There is an obvious need to improve the quality of training for the warriors - only trained soldiers can be on the front line. A new type of forces is being created in the structure of the Armed Forces - the Unmanned Systems Forces. The first commander is to be appointed. Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi will present the team for resetting the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the coming days. The year 2024 can be a successful one for Ukraine only if effective changes are made in the core of our defense, which is the Armed Forces of Ukraine. We are all proud of our army. And we must do everything in our power to make the Ukrainian army a victorious army. I thank each and every person who believes in Ukraine, fights for Ukraine, works for our victory, and helps - helps Ukraine! Glory to Ukraine! NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine launched negotiations with Denmark on the conclusion of a bilateral security agreement President of Ukraine 8 February 2024 - 12:50 Pursuant to the instruction of the President of Ukraine and the Head of the Presidential Office, Ukraine has started detailed negotiations with Denmark on the conclusion of bilateral security commitments. The Ukrainian delegation was chaired by the Deputy Head of the Presidential Office, Ihor Zhovkva. The Danish delegation was headed by Lisbet Zilmer-Johns, State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The talks were launched as part of the implementation of the G7 Joint Declaration of Support for Ukraine, which Denmark, together with the Nordics, was among the first countries to join. Denmark's security commitments reaffirm the unwavering and powerful support, including military assistance, that Denmark has been providing to our country since the beginning of the Russian aggression. The parties discussed the main elements of the future bilateral security commitments and agreed on a schedule for further negotiations. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Zelenskyy Fires Top Military Commander By VOA News February 08, 2024 After days of speculation in Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Thursday fired General Valerii Zaluzhnyi, the country's top military commander who has led the two-year fight against Russia's invasion, and replaced him with Colonel-General Oleksandr Syrskyi. With the war seemingly at a stalemate, Zelenskyy said in a statement that he met with Zaluzhnyi, seen by some as a national hero for defending Ukraine, and thanked him for leading the battle against Moscow's forces when many military analysts thought Ukraine would quickly be overrun. Nonetheless, Zelenskyy said it was time for a change in the military's leadership. "The time for such a renewal is now," Zelenskyy said on the X social media platform. "We discussed the renewal that the Armed Forces of Ukraine require. We also discussed who could be part of the renewed leadership of the Armed Forces of Ukraine," he said. Zelenskyy added that he asked Zaluzhnyi to remain "part of the team." In his own statement, Zaluzhnyi said that he had an "important and serious conversation" with Zelenskyy and that a decision was made to change battlefield tactics and strategy. "The tasks of 2022 are different from the tasks of 2024. Therefore, everyone must change and adapt to new realities as well. To win together, too," his statement said. Zaluzhnyi, 50, was viewed favorably by Kyiv's troops, and some political analysts in Ukraine have speculated that he could someday oppose Zelenskyy for the presidency when elections resume after the war. The switch to Syrskyi, 58, could be jarring for troops. He commanded Ukraine's ground troops and was credited with protecting Kyiv in the first month of the war and a successful counteroffensive in the northeastern Kharkiv region in fall 2022. But rank-and-file troops are said to view him as a Soviet-style commander who kept troops under fire too long in the eastern city of Bakhmut when Ukraine should have withdrawn. Zelenskyy and Zaluzhnyi posted a picture on their social media accounts of them smiling and shaking hands. Zaluzhnyi wrote, "A decision was made about the need to change approaches and strategy." Russian drones strike On the battlefield, Ukrainian officials reported Thursday that Russia attacked overnight with 17 drones, leaving damage in Mykolaiv and Odesa but no reported casualties. The Ukrainian air force said the country's air defenses destroyed 11 of the drones over the Mykolaiv, Odesa, Vinnytsia and Dnipropetrovsk regions. Vitaliy Kim, the regional governor in Mykolaiv, said on Telegram there was damage to residential and industrial buildings. In Odesa, Regional Governor Oleh Kiper reported damage to an unfinished high-rise building and a school. Russia's military said Thursday it shot down a Ukrainian drone that was targeting Crimea. The attacks came hours after Zelenskyy vowed in his nightly address to "retaliate against Russia" for every missile and drone it launches. Zelenskyy also said Ukraine will work to bolster its air defenses. The EU and NATO After talks with Zelenskyy in Kyiv on Wednesday, European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said the Ukrainian leader "asked for additional ammunition, drones and air defense systems." Borrell said his top priority is mobilizing European Union military aid for Ukraine. United States and NATO officials on Wednesday reaffirmed their strong support for Ukraine's continued battle against Russia as top humanitarian leaders denounced a wave of missile attacks Zelenskyy said killed at least five people. U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan, speaking at NATO headquarters, sounded a confident tone, despite the dramatic collapse Wednesday of a Senate deal to fund Ukraine's defense and buttress the southern U.S. border. In remarks delivered before the bill cratered, U.S. President Joe Biden said the lapse in U.S. support is "just what Putin wants." Sullivan, though, said he was hopeful. "Even in the last 24 hours, you've seen a significant number of Republicans come out and say that no matter what else happens, we need to move forward a package of support for Ukraine," he said. "As President Biden said [Tuesday], history will record any failure to deliver the type of assistance that's contained in the package that was put forward this week." He also stressed, as have other administration officials, that if Washington does not deliver, there is no Plan B. "At the end of the day, there is no alternative to the United States stepping up to the plate and providing a level of resources that allow Ukraine to have the artillery, the air defense systems and the other capabilities they need," Sullivan said in Brussels. "And time is of the essence in this regard. So, we're going to stay focused on that, and we believe that we still can and will deliver it." Some information for this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN Committee Accuses Russia of Violating Ukrainian Child Rights By Lisa Schlein February 08, 2024 A U.N. watchdog group Thursday accused Russia of violating the rights of Ukrainian children in both Russian occupied territories in Ukraine and in Russia. The U.N. Committee on the Rights of the Child, a body of 18 independent experts that monitors implementation of the convention, raised many concerns about the killings and injuries of hundreds of children by the indiscriminate use of explosive devices by Russia in Ukraine. The committee also strongly criticized the forcible transfer and deportation of thousands of Ukrainian children to the Russian Federation "in violation of rights under the convention." Russia was one of six states parties whose record came under review during the committee's latest three-week session. The states parties are the countries that ratified or acceded to the Convention on the Rights of the Child. In presenting its major findings, committee Vice Chair Bragi Gudbrandsson highlighted "measures that Russia has taken, including the presidential decree from January 2024 providing Russian citizenship to forcibly transferred or deported children in a simplified procedure." He said the committee also was concerned about "evidence that suggests that children are deprived of their Ukrainian nationality in violation of the rights of a child." According to the Ukrainian government, at least 20,000 children have been forcibly deported to Russia. Gudbrandsson said several reliable sources have confirmed the number. "However, Russia denied this," he said. "They submitted information that over 700,000 children had fled to Russia, to safety, as they defined it." He said the committee assessed the information and evidence that was presented and "it is our conclusion that there is evidence of forceful transfer of children from Ukraine to Russia." "We cannot identify the number of these children, but we know there are many and we can support this with the actual measures Russia has taken to simplify procedures to acquire Russian citizenship and to place Ukrainian children with Russian families," he said. Russia stands accused of trying to erase Ukraine's cultural and national identity, a charge that the committee corroborates. Committee Chair Ann Skelton told journalists in Geneva that the Russian delegation denied that Ukrainian children were being adopted. It said that the children were being fostered by Russian families. "On the other hand, they also acknowledged that there were a lot of children who were being given Russian citizenship, which would also in itself mean that these children were losing their identity and were being given a Russian identity. We consider it to be a very big risk for the future a these children who are being indoctrinated." To ensure that no child is deprived of their Ukrainian nationality in violation of their rights under the convention, the committee has asked the Russian delegation to provide information about the precise number of children taken from Ukraine and about the whereabouts of each child. Gudbrandsson said that was important so "parents and other legal representatives can track them, including through identification of such children ... so the children can be returned to their families as soon as possible." The committee says it has received worrying reports of sexual violence, arbitrary detention, ill-treatment, and torture of children by the Russian authorities in the occupied Ukrainian territory. The human rights experts say they also are seriously concerned about reports of violations of children's rights in Crimea and the city of Sevastopol, including "arbitrary arrests of children by Russian law enforcement officers, including for participation in peaceful assemblies." In both instances, the committee is calling on Russian authorities to investigate the crimes against children and to punish the perpetrators. In his concluding remarks, committee Vice Chair Gudbrandsson urged the state party "to cease military operations in Ukraine without delay, to avoid further devastating consequences for children in Ukraine, Russia, and all over the world." In response, Alexey Vovchenko, deputy minister of labor and social protection of the Russian Federation and head of the delegation, said he valued the work of the committee and that "The state would be attentive to all the recommendations made by the committee." "However, the Russian Federation would not consider itself obliged to fulfill recommendations which were not aimed at fulfilling the rights of children in Russia," he said, "but were biased and sought to interfere in the affairs of the sovereign state." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine approved Ukraine's withdrawal from agreements within the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) on combating the increase in the incidence of diabetes mellitus and on the principles and procedure for military transportation. As Taras Melnychuk, a representative of the Cabinet of Ministers in the Verkhovna Rada, reported on his Telegram channel, the decision was made at a government meeting on Friday. An agreement on cooperation between CIS member states in the fight against the increasing incidence of diabetes mellitus was signed on November 14, 2008 in Chisinau (Moldova), an agreement on the principles and procedure for carrying out military transportation was signed on May 15, 1992 in Tashkent (Uzbekistan). Advocates Plead for Help Rescuing Ukrainian Children Abducted to Russia By Tatiana Vorozhko, Iryna Matviichuk February 08, 2024 "The military came to my house in Kherson and said that they were taking me to a children's camp in Crimea," explained 18-year-old Denys Berezhnyi, addressing U.S. lawmakers in Washington last month. His parents are deaf and mute, he said, and couldn't argue with the Russian soldiers. In the camp, he said, his supervisor denied him diabetes medication to force him into obedience, until his physical condition deteriorated and he was taken to a hospital in an ambulance. "I did not want to be a Russian citizen. I called the Save Ukraine hotline from a Russian number and jumped for joy when I learned they would come for me," Berezhnyi told the members of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, also known as the U.S. Helsinki Commission. Berezhnyi is one of the lucky Ukrainian children who made it back home. Save Ukraine is the largest network for rescuing Ukrainian children forcibly taken to Russia, supported by the U.S. Agency for International Development and private donations. Still, it has been able to repatriate only 239 children; 64 of them are orphans. Ukraine government ombudsman Dmytro Lubynets told VOA that Ukraine has been able to recover a total of 518 children from Russia and occupied territories through combined efforts of the state, Save Ukraine and UNICEF. That's just a small fraction of the children taken to Russia since 2014, when Russia annexed Crimea and sent forces into eastern Ukrainian territories ahead of the full-scale invasion in February 2022. Ukrainian authorities have been able to identify about 20,000 children forcibly taken to Russia, though Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk believes the actual number is much higher, possibly in the hundreds of thousands. Russia claims children 'in need' Russian authorities don't deny bringing children from Ukraine to Russia but portray their actions as taking care of children in need and finding adoptive parents for orphans. Moscow also doesn't share the exact number of kids taken or their whereabouts. Save Ukraine CEO Mykola Kuleba, who also testified at the hearings, told VOA that his organization uses information from multiple sources, including relatives, social services, open data, volunteer organizations and media reports to find missing children. In March of last year, the International Criminal Court issued warrants of arrest for Russian President Vladimir Putin and the commissioner for children's rights in the Office of the President, Maria Lvova-Belova. It said they were "allegedly responsible for the war crime of unlawful deportation of [children] and that of unlawful transfer of [children] from occupied areas of Ukraine to the Russian Federation." In April, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe declared that the deportation and forced transfer of Ukrainian children to Russia amounted to genocide. UN demands Russia stop On Thursday, the U.N. Committee on the Rights of the Child a a panel of 18 independent experts a demanded Russia end the forcible transfer of children from Ukraine, provide information about those already taken and ensure they are returned home. In some cases, entire Ukrainian families including children are forced to move to Russia. Kuleba said these families are resettled all over the Russian territory, some as far away as Siberia. Some children are separated from their families and sent to the children's camps, while those whose parents were killed in Mariupol or other occupied territories are placed with Russian families or in orphanages. Kuleba and Lubynets charge that Russia kidnaps Ukrainian children to brainwash them to hate Ukraine and the United States and to use them as soldiers in future wars. "The Russians are trying to erase the identity of the Ukrainian children they kidnapped and are raising them as a new generation of the Russian army," Lubynets said at the hearing. 'New approaches' needed The Ukrainian government and nongovernmental organizations face challenges in bringing children home. Kuleba didn't want to share the details "because the Russians do everything not to return any child, to prevent these returns." Every return remains a separate special operation that requires "new approaches, new arguments, new partners, new logistical routes," said Lubynets. Many rescue operations start with a call to the Save Ukraine hotline, which then works with a parent or relative in Ukraine to facilitate the children's return. In the case of Berezhnyi, who was 17 at the time, his disabled parents were unable to come to claim him, so the organization engaged the mother of another child who was taken to Crimea with him. The mother, her son and Berezhnyi were able to cross the border, where Russian authorities questioned them and closely examined their phones, Berezhnyi recounted. "And when I saw the sign 'Ukraine,' I took the heavy bag in my arms and shouted, 'Glory to Ukraine!' " he said at the hearings. Berezhnyi arrived back home in July 2023, nine months after being taken from his family. Kuleba said it became more difficult to repatriate children after the March 2023 ICC decision, which made Russia more reluctant to let the children leave because they would be witnesses to a crime. At the same time, Lubynets said, it has helped in many cases by bringing international awareness to the situation. "This decision became like a cold shower for the leaders, and everyone started not just 'being deeply concerned,' but finally started to act," he told VOA. Qatar is so far the only foreign country that has directly facilitated the return of Ukrainian children, helping to bring home 16 in all. Girl returns 'hostile to Ukraine' There is no legal mechanism to repatriate deported children, said Andriy Kostin, Ukraine's prosecutor general. He said that Ukrainian authorities provide information and legal arguments to world leaders, asking them to either stop engaging with Putin or, if they do, request that he return the abducted kids. "The first sentence of every communication with Putin by anyone should start with, 'Putin, bring back the Ukrainian children,' " said Kostin in an interview with VOA. Kuleba said that children who return home are often exhausted, withdrawn and brainwashed. Many believe that Ukraine no longer exists or that Ukraine is a republic of Russia. Some refuse to go home because they are afraid of "Nazis," a propaganda label that Moscow applies to Ukrainian citizens, some of whom are Jewish. "One girl, 16 years old, whom we brought back from Mariupol, was so hostile to Ukraine a just hostile a and we can see that she is a very traumatized child. We treat them with respect, try to warm them with love," he said. Save Ukraine employs psychologists, social workers and case managers to help children readjust. Kuleba also said that they were able to find adoptive families for all the orphans they brought back from Russia. Mariia Ulianovska, Hanna Tverdokhlib, Ostap Yarysh and Oleksii Kovalenko of VOA Ukrainian contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address This news release constitutes a "Designated News Release" incorporated by reference in the prospectus supplement dated September 19, 2023 to Fortis' short form base shelf prospectus dated November 21, 2022. ST. JOHN'S, Newfoundland and Labrador, Feb. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Board of Directors of Fortis Inc. ("Fortis" or the "Corporation") (TSX/NYSE: FTS) has declared the following dividends payable on June 1, 2024 to the Shareholders of Record of the following Shares of the Corporation at the close of business on May 17, 2024: $0.3063 per share on the First Preference Shares, Series "F"; $0.3826875 per share on the First Preference Shares, Series "G"; $0.11469 per share on the First Preference Shares, Series "H"; $0.408392 per share on the First Preference Shares, Series "I"; $0.2969 per share on the First Preference Shares, Series "J"; $0.3418125 per share on the First Preference Shares, Series "K", provided that if no such Series K shares are outstanding on such date as a result of the exercise of Shareholders of their right to convert Series K shares into Cumulative Redeemable Floating Rate First Preference Shares, Series L of the Corporation effective March 1, 2024 (the Conversion Right), no such dividend shall be payable; $0.4462000 per share on the First Preference Shares, Series L, provided that if no such Series L shares are issued on March 1, 2024 pursuant to the Conversion Right, no such dividend shall be payable; $0.2445625 per share on the First Preference Shares, Series "M"; and, $0.59 per share on the Common Shares. The Corporation has designated the common share dividend and preference share dividends as eligible dividends for federal and provincial dividend tax credit purposes. All amounts are given in Canadian dollars unless otherwise indicated. About Fortis Fortis is a well-diversified leader in the North American regulated electric and gas utility industry with 2022 revenue of $11 billion and total assets of $66 billion as at September 30, 2023. The Corporation's 9,200 employees serve utility customers in five Canadian provinces, ten U.S. states and three Caribbean countries. Fortis shares are listed on the TSX and NYSE and trade under the symbol FTS. Additional information can be accessed at www.fortisinc.com, www.sedarplus.ca, or www.sec.gov. For more information, please contact: Investor Enquiries Ms. Stephanie Amaimo Vice President, Investor Relations Fortis Inc. 248.946.3572 investorrelations@fortisinc.com Media Enquiries Ms. Karen McCarthy Vice President, Communications & Government Relations Fortis Inc. 709.737.5323 media@fortisinc.com A .pdf version of this press release is available at: http://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/202754e4-8ecb-46a9-917c-6a4a7a76e192 FSIS ISSUES PUBLIC HEALTH ALERT FOR READY-TO-EAT POULTRY PRODUCTS CONTAINING FDA-REGULATED DAIRY PRODUCTS THAT HAVE BEEN RECALLED DUE TO POSSIBLE LISTERIA MONOCYTOGENES CONTAMINATION WASHINGTON, Feb. 8, 2024 The U.S. Department of Agricultures Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for ready-to-eat (RTE) poultry burrito products containing Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulated dairy products that have been recalled by Rizo-Lopez Foods, due to concerns that the products may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers are aware that these products, which bear the USDA mark of inspection, should not be consumed. As more information becomes available, FSIS will update this public health alert. Consumers should check back frequently because additional products may be added. The RTE poultry burrito items were produced on various dates between June 20, 2023, and December 30, 2023. The following products subject to the public health alert are [view labels]: 10.53-oz. individual wax paper packages containing amazon kitchen, CHICKEN CHILI VERDE burrito with rice, black beans & monterey jack with BEST BEFORE Julian dates starting with 0764, 1384, 1394, and 2694. The product is packaged in boxed cases labeled as "CHICKEN CHILE VERDE BURRITO WITH RICE, BLACK BEANS & MONTEREY JACK" with production dates 6/20/23, 8/21/23, 8/22/23, and 12/30/23, and with expiration dates of 3/16/24, 5/17/24, 5/18/24, and 9/25/24. The products bear establishment number P-20552 inside the USDA mark of inspection on the case label and P-20552 on the back of the immediate package. These items were shipped to retail locations nationwide. The problem was discovered when the firm notified FSIS that they used FDA-regulated cotija cheese that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes to produce burrito products. FDA is continuing its investigation into the dairy products produced by Rizo-Lopez Foods. There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an illness should contact a health care provider. Consumption of food contaminated with L. monocytogenes can cause listeriosis, a serious infection that primarily affects older adults, persons with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women and their newborns. Less commonly, persons outside these risk groups are affected. Listeriosis can cause fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance and convulsions sometimes preceded by diarrhea or other gastrointestinal symptoms. An invasive infection spreads beyond the gastrointestinal tract. In pregnant women, the infection can cause miscarriages, stillbirths, premature delivery or life-threatening infection of the newborn. In addition, serious and sometimes fatal infections can occur in older adults and persons with weakened immune systems. Listeriosis is treated with antibiotics. Persons in the higher-risk categories who experience flu-like symptoms within two months after eating contaminated food should seek medical care and tell the health care provider about eating the contaminated food. FSIS is concerned that some product may be in consumers refrigerators or retailers freezers. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. Retailers that have purchased these products are urged not to serve them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase. Media and consumers with questions regarding the public health alert can contact Meghan Stevenson, Sr. Director of Food Safety, Quality Assurance, and Procurement, SK Food Group, at 775-284-2041 or Meghan.Stevenson@SKFoodGroup.com. Consumers with food safety questions can call the toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-MPHotline (888-674-6854) or send a question via email to MPHotline@usda.gov. For consumers that need to report a problem with a meat, poultry, or egg product, the online Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System can be accessed 24 hours a day at https://foodcomplaint.fsis.usda.gov/eCCF/. Outdoorsmen's ERP with built in AI, Automation and Cloud Access, by Decentral Life, Inc. GREENWOOD VILLAGE, COLORADO, Feb. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Decentral Life, Inc. (OTC: WDLF) announced today the official launch of an AI Powered ERP SaaS for its TBI company, Outdoorsmen.com, Inc. The New Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) cloud-based software will first be used by the tradeshow operators and small businesses acquired by Outdoorsmen.com and will then be sold through a software as a service (SaaS) subscription to their business customers. Outdoorsmen.com is a Social Media and E-commerce Technology Company operating in the sporting goods industry, devoted to the hundreds of millions of consumers and business operators that contribute to an annual gross economic output of $1.1 tillion from the U.S. outdoor economy. The Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) calculates the economic output of outdoor recreation to be $1.1 trillion, surpassing industries such as mining, utilities, farming and ranching, and chemical products manufacturing according to their updated national statistics and state-level data on the outdoor recreation economy that recognizes the critical role that the industry plays in supporting economic growth in the United States. https://recreationroundtable.org/resources/national-recreation-data/ The Outdoorsmen.com AI integrated ERP is a multifaceted business management system that includes modules for accounting, finance, customer and inventory management, production planning, manufacturing, supply chain, eMarketing, and customer order handling to name just a few; When used effectively, it helps streamline operations and ensure data consistency across departments of the companies that are owned by Outdoorsmen.com, and its clients. The Global ERP Software market size was valued at USD 54.76 billion in 2022 and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.0% from 2023 to 2030, according to the Grand View Research Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Software Market Analysis. The report shows that North America accounted for 35% revenue share of the 2022 ERP global market. https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/erp-software-market We have been working on this New System Launch for the past year, and were extremely pleased to have it ready to go in advance of Outdoorsmens pending tradeshow acquisitions, as the company prepares to go Public, said Decentral Life CEO, Ken Tapp. There are more than two hundred and eight thousand small businesses operating in the U.S. Outdoor Industry Economy, defined by 20 employees or less. The majority of them are not using an ERP software solution to help them run more efficient company operations, and planning for the future of their business growth. It is our great honor to be part of the Providing Solution, for many of them, through our TBI program company Outdoorsmen.com, Inc. added Tapp. About Outdoorsmen.com, Inc. Outdoorsmen.com is one of the largest digital media and technology companies in North America, solely devoted to the hundreds of millions of consumers and business operators that contribute to the U.S. outdoor economy. According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) releases updated national statistics and state-level data on the outdoor recreation economy for 2022, it calculates the economic output of outdoor recreation to be $1.1 trillion, surpassing industries such as mining, utilities, farming and ranching, and chemical products manufacturing. Outdoorsmen.com, Inc. is a proud member of the Outdoor Industry Association. https://outdoorindustry.org About Decentral Life: Decentral Life, Inc. (OTC: WDLF) is a SaaS company providing Blockchain and AI Technology through license agreements with technology companies and operates a Technology Business Incubator (TBI) as a division of the company, which provides Tech Start-ups with licenses technology solutions, executive leadership, and C-suite Consulting Services aimed at making it easier for start-up founders to focus on expanding their business growth. For more information, visit the website @ https://www.WDLF.ai/ Safe Harbor & Disclaimer This information also contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Safe Harbor Provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are identified using the words could, believe, anticipate, intend, estimate, expect, may, continue, predict, potential, possible, project and similar expressions that are intended to identify forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this presentation. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Although we believe that our plans, objectives, expectations, and intentions reflected in or suggested by the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we can give no assurance that these plans, objectives, expectations, or intentions will be achieved. Forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties (some of which are beyond our control) and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from historical experience and present expectations or projections. Actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements, and the trading price for our common stock may fluctuate significantly. Forward-looking statements also are affected by the risk factors described in the Companys filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly, any forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made, or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. Risks include but, are not limited to general risks associated with partnerships, client cashflow, lack of sufficient capital, changes in industry related laws, possible impairment of assets, stock market conditions and liquidity in our traded stock. No information in this press release should be construed as any indication whatsoever of our current or future financial results, revenues, or stock price. Ken Tapp Decentral Life, Inc. ir@WDLF.ai 1-855-933-3277 VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Alaska Energy Metals Corporation (TSX-V: AEMC, OTCQB: AKEMF) (AEMC or the Company) is pleased to announce the closing of a non-brokered offering of 2,500,000 special warrants (the Special Warrants) issued at the price of $0.40 per Special Warrant for gross proceeds of $1,000,000 (the Offering). Each Special Warrant will automatically convert into one unit of the Company (each a Unit), as described below. Each Unit shall consist of one common share of the Company (a Share) and one-half of one common share purchase warrant (each full warrant, a Warrant). Each Warrant shall entitle the holder thereof to acquire one Share at a price of $0.80 per Share for a period of 24 months following the date of issue. Each Special Warrant will automatically convert, for no additional consideration, into Units on the date (the Qualification Date) that is the earlier of: (i) the date that is three business days following the date on which the Company (a) obtains a receipt from the applicable securities regulatory authorities (the Securities Commissions) for a (final) short form prospectus qualifying distribution of the Units underlying the Special Warrants (the Qualifying Prospectus) or (b) files a prospectus supplement to a short form base shelf prospectus with the Securities Commissions qualifying distribution of the Units underlying the Special Warrants (the Prospectus Supplement), and (ii) the date that is four months and one day after the closing of the Offering. The Company will use its commercially reasonable efforts to obtain a receipt from the Securities Commissions for the Qualifying Prospectus or file the Prospectus Supplement within 60 days of the closing of the Offering (not including the date of closing), provided, however, that there is no assurance that a Qualifying Prospectus or a receipt therefor will be issued by the Securities Commissions, or a Prospectus Supplement will be filed with the Securities Commissions, prior to the expiry of the statutory four month hold period. The Company paid finders fee of $4,000 to Research Capital Corporation and $8,000 to Canaccord Genuity Corp., being 8% of the gross proceeds raised by each such finder. As settlement for the finders fees, the Company issued to Research Capital Corporation 10,000 broker special warrants (each a Broker Special Warrant) and to Canaccord Genuity Corp. 20,000 Broker Special Warrants at the deemed issue price of $0.40. Each Broker Special Warrant will automatically convert, for no additional consideration, into one Share on the Qualification Date. The net proceeds from the Offering will be used for working capital and marketing purposes. Prior to the filing of the Qualifying Prospectus or Prospectus Supplement and the automatic conversion of the Special Warrants and the Broker Special Warrants, the securities issued under the Offering will be subject to a four month hold period from the date of closing of the Offering in addition to any other restrictions under applicable law. In its news release of December 28, 2023, the Company reported that 140,000 finders warrants were issued in connection with the closing of its flow-through private placement. Each finders warrant is exercisable for one common share of the Company at a price of $0.39 per share for a term of two years. For additional information, visit: https://alaskaenergymetals.com/ About Alaska Energy Metals Alaska Energy Metals Corporation is focused on delineating and developing a large polymetallic exploration target containing nickel, copper, cobalt, chrome, iron, platinum, palladium, and gold. Located in central Alaska, the Nikolai Nickel project is located near existing transportation and power infrastructure, the project is well-situated to become a significant, domestic source of critical and strategic energy-related metals for the American market. The Company is also exploring the Belleterre Nickel project in Quebec. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD Gregory Beischer Gregory Beischer, President & CEO FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Gregory A. Beischer, President & CEO Toll-Free: 877-217-8978 | Local: 604-638-3164 Sarah Mawji, Public Relations Final Edit Media and Public Relations Email: sarah@finaleditpr.com Some statements in this news release may contain forward-looking information (within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation), including, without limitation, that the Company will file a Qualifying Prospectus and obtain a receipt therefor, or file a Prospectus Supplement, qualifying the Units for distribution, and the use of proceeds from the Offering. 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. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date those statements are made. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include regulatory actions, market prices, and continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by applicable law, the Company 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 the Company updates any forward-looking statement(s), no inference should be drawn that it will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. Dublin, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "APAC Edtech Market - Focused Insights 2023-2028" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The APAC Edtech Market was valued at $129.66 billion in 2022. The APAC Edtech market has been experiencing robust growth due to various factors. The increasing adoption of digital technology in education and the proliferation of internet connectivity and mobile devices have paved the way for innovative learning solutions. The market has also benefited from the rising acceptance of online education, with the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic that accelerated the shift towards remote and hybrid learning models. Edtech companies in APAC offer a diverse array of digital learning platforms catering to learners of all ages and educational levels. These platforms include Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), virtual classrooms, Learning Management Systems (LMS), and Interactive E-Learning Modules. These platforms allow students to learn at their own pace, access various resources, and engage in interactive activities. KEY HIGHLIGHTS: The APAC EdTech market has experienced a remarkable influx of investment from various sources, including venture capital firms, private equity, and traditional educational institutions. This recognition of the potential of innovative educational technologies has resulted in substantial funding for EdTech startups, enabling them to develop and scale their platforms, create engaging content, and expand their user base. One significant trend in the APAC EdTech market is the increasing focus on personalized and adaptive learning experiences. EdTech platforms leverage data analytics and artificial intelligence to assess individual student performance, preferences, and learning styles. This data-driven approach enables tailored content recommendations, adaptive assessments, and progress tracking, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness of the learning process. Governments across the APAC region have acknowledged the importance of digital education and have initiated policies to promote technology integration in classrooms. These initiatives involve investments in infrastructure, teacher training, and developing digital learning resources. For instance, In India, each state/UT leverages DIKSHA, a separate window on the DIKSHA platform to provide ready-to-use e-learning resources free of cost under the PM e-VIDYA initiative that unifies all efforts related to digital/online/on-air education to enable multi-mode access to education. Despite the growth in the APAC EdTech market, accessibility remains a challenge. Uneven internet access can hinder widespread adoption. However, nonprofits and developers are actively working to ensure equitable access through user-friendly interfaces and low-bandwidth solutions. The sector's commitment to inclusivity is evident in efforts to democratize education, including collaborations with communities and providing devices and internet access to reach all segments of society. IN Sept 2023, SkillSoft, one of the key vendors, introduced Role Advisor. This virtual skill-building concierge provided learners with quick references to trending content, learning recommendations based on content type, and skill benchmarks. This launch empowered learners to improve their skills efficiently. Competing EdTech companies in the APAC region must enhance their platforms with similar personalized skill-building tools to stay relevant and attract learners. SkillSoft's Role Advisor sets a standard for user engagement and personalization. Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 84 Forecast Period 2022 - 2028 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2022 $129.66 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2028 $318.65 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 16.1% Regions Covered Asia Pacific MARKET STRUCTURE Market Dynamics Competitive Landscape of APAC Edtech Market Key Vendors Other Prominent Vendors LIST OF VENDORS Key Vendors Pearson BYJU'S McGraw Hill Chegg Bright Horizons Other Prominent Vendors Skillsoft Coursera Duolingo Boxlight 2U Udemy Blackboard VIPKid XSEED EDUCATION Labster Simplilearn Instructure Course Hero Unacademy Doyobi Yuanfudao Eruditus Cialfo upGrad Go1 Physics Wallah Vedantu Preply Toppr FutureLearn SEGMENTATION & FORECAST Type (Revenue) Hardware Software Technology-Enabled Services Sector (Revenue) K-12 Higher Education Competitive Exams Certifications End-users (Revenue) Individual Learners Institutes Enterprises For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/mwm604 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, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Global Solid-State Battery Market by Type (Single-cell, Multi-cell), Capacity (Below 20 mAh, 20-500 mAh, Above 500 mAh), Battery Type (Primary, Secondary), Application (Consumer Electronics, Electric Vehicles, Medical Devices), Region - Forecast to 2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The global solid-state battery market is expected to grow from USD 85 million in 2023 to USD 963 million by 2030, at a CAGR of 41.5% from 2023 to 2030. Electric vehicles require batteries that are better than conventional batteries in terms of energy density and safety. This has led to a rise in the demand for solid-state batteries in electric vehicles. Major players profiled in this report are as follows: Blue Solutions (France), Ilika (UK), Solid Power (US), QuantumScape (US), ProLogium Technology Co., Ltd. (Taiwan), BrightVolt (US), Excellatron (US), Sakuu Corporation (US), Hitachi Zosen Corporation (Japan) and others. Primary battery segment is projected to grow at significant CAGR during the forecast period Primary solid-state batteries find applications in smart consumer devices, medical devices such as skin patches, and wireless sensors used in several IoT devices. In addition, there is a growing demand for such batteries owing to the growing trend of the Internet of Things (IoT), 5G telecommunications, and artificial intelligence (AI) across industries such as consumer electronics and healthcare. These applications are expected to drive the demand for primary batteries from 2023 to 2030. Below 20 mAh capacity segment is projected to grow at an impressive CAGR during the forecast period Below 20 mAh batteries are designed to deliver relatively low energy output, making them suitable for applications that require minimal power consumption. Solid-state batteries below 20 mAh are tailored explicitly for low-power applications, such as packaging applications like RFID tags and smart labels, smart cards, and medical or cosmetic patches. These devices require compact, low-power batteries that fit within their limited space. The increasing adoption of compact batteries in various applications is expected to drive the growth of the below 20 mAh segment. Wireless Sensors application is expected to hold a significant market share during the forecast period Wireless devices such as wireless speakers, mice, keyboards, Bluetooth headsets, wireless handheld devices, wireless sensors, and the Internet of Things (IoT) devices have gained immense popularity over the past decade. These devices have limited internal space; hence, the power source has always been a factor of concern for the manufacturers. The advantage of the solid-state battery is their compact size and high energy density, which makes them easy to integrate into wireless sensors. In addition to this, manufacturers also stack these batteries one over the other to increase the voltage range. As such, the market for wireless sensors is expected to grow significantly. The market in Europe is expected to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period Major applications of the solid-state battery market in Europe include packaging, consumer electronics, electric vehicles, and medical devices. The packaging industry in Europe is witnessing a shift toward more visibility and intensive data collection for the manufacturers, as well as more hygiene and convenience for the end users. This drives the manufacturers to use displays, RFID tags, and smart labels in their packages, wherein the compact battery is integrated as a power source. The European Commission has extended its support to technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and cloud computing in wireless applications, which demand thin and flexible power sources. These requirements are expected to increase the demand for solid-state batteries in Europe. Key Attributes Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 202 Forecast Period 2023-2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $85 Million Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $963 Million Compound Annual Growth Rate 41.5% Regions Covered Global Market Dynamics Drivers Increasing Research and Development (R&D) by Solid-State Battery Manufacturers Rising Demand for Electric Vehicles Benefits of Solid-State Batteries Over Traditional Batteries Restraints High Solid-State Battery Manufacturing Cost Opportunities Increasing R&D Investments and Partnerships Between Solid-State Battery Manufacturers and Automobile Companies Rising Demand for Compact Batteries in Consumer Electronics Industry Advancements in Medical Devices Equipped with Solid-State Batteries Challenges Complex Manufacturing Process of Solid-State Batteries Pricing Analysis Average Selling Price (ASP) Trend of Lithium-Ion Batteries Average Selling Price (ASP) Trend of Solid-State Batteries Average Selling Price (ASP) Trend, by Region Technology Analysis Lithium-Silicon Batteries Zinc-Manganese Batteries Sodium-Sulfur Batteries Solid-State Batteries Metal-Air Batteries Liquid-Metal Batteries Potassium Metal Batteries Vanadium Flow Batteries Case Study Analysis Ilika Partnered with Connect 2 Connect Ltd. (C2C) to Develop Solid-State Battery Production Cleanroom IAAPS Ltd. Analyzed Commercial Viability of Solid-State Batteries in Automobile Applications Research Team of Georgia Institute of Technology Developed Ceramic Electrolytes to Reduce Battery Cost Samsung Electronics Tested Use of Silver-Carbon Composite to Tackle Dendrite Formation in Solid-State Batteries Companies Profiled Ampcera Blue Solutions Brightvolt Excellatron Factorial Inc. Ganfeng Lithium Group Co., Ltd. Hitachi Zosen Corporation Ilika Ionic Materials, Inc. LG Energy Solution Lionvolt Niterra Co., Ltd. Prieto Battery Inc. Prologium Technology Co., Ltd. Qingtao (Kunshan) Energy Development Co., Ltd. Quantumscape Sakuu Corporation Samsung SDI Co., Ltd. SK Innovation Co., Ltd. Solid Power Storedot Toyota Motor Corporation For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/9d531k 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 London, UK, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In the fast-paced world of cryptocurrency trading, speed, efficiency, and precision are paramount. DefiQuant, a pioneering force in the digital finance space, is setting new standards with the introduction of its high-frequency trading (HFT) capabilities, powered by sophisticated DeFi trading bot and cryptocurrency quant robot technology. This innovative approach promises to unlock new levels of performance and profitability in the crypto markets, marking a significant leap forward for traders and investors alike. High-frequency trading in the crypto domain involves the execution of a large number of orders at lightning-fast speeds. DefiQuant leverages cutting-edge algorithms to analyze market data, executing trades based on precise, predefined criteria. In a market known for its volatility, this technology capitalizes on minute price fluctuations, offering a strategic advantage that can lead to substantial profits. Allen Heery, Media Representative for DefiQuant, commented on the initiative: "The introduction of our DeFi trading bot and cryptocurrency quant robot represents a milestone in crypto trading. These tools not only enhance our ability to engage in high-frequency trading but also ensure that our strategies are executed with unmatched precision and efficiency." The cornerstone of DefiQuant's trading strategy is its advanced programming and technology integration. By choosing Python for its versatility and the support of libraries like web3.py and ccxt, DefiQuant facilitates seamless interaction with Ethereum and other cryptocurrencies, as well as connectivity with various cryptocurrency exchanges. This allows for a dynamic trading environment where strategies can be adjusted in real time, responding swiftly to market changes. Security and access are also top priorities, with DefiQuant ensuring secure interactions between traders' wallets and exchanges. This is crucial in maintaining the integrity and safety of each transaction, a fundamental aspect of DefiQuant's commitment to its users. Heery further explained, "Our platform's strength lies not just in the technology underpinning it, but also in our holistic approach to trading. From ensuring robust security measures to providing a user-friendly experience, and most importantly, empowering our traders with comprehensive educational resources, we are dedicated to supporting our users every step of the way." DefiQuant's educational initiative aims to demystify high-frequency crypto trading , offering an extensive suite of learning materials. These resources are designed to help both novice and experienced traders understand the complexities of the market, develop effective trading strategies, and make the most of the technological tools available to them. DefiQuant's platform offers a variety of investment packages, catering to a diverse range of investor needs and preferences: Free Experience Bot: Ideal for beginners, this plan requires only a $5 investment with a profit of $0.15, and the capital is returned after 1 day. Crypto Trading Bot 1 Day: With a $50 investment, this plan offers a profit of $0.3, returning the capital after just 1 day. Crypto Trading Bot 5 Days: A $500 investment yields a profit of $21.25, with the capital returned after 5 days. Crypto Trading Bot 7 Days: This plan involves a $1050 investment, generating a profit of $73.5, with capital returned after 7 days. Crypto Trading Bot 15 Days: For a $3000 investment, this plan offers a profit of $540, with the capital returned after 15 days. Crypto Trading Bot 20 Days: A higher investment of $6000 yields a significant profit of $1680, with the capital returned after 20 days. Crypto Trading Bot 30 Days: This plan requires a $10800 investment with a substantial profit of $5184, returning the capital after 30 days. Crypto Trading Bot 45 Days: For long-term investors, an $18000 investment can yield a profit of $14580, with the capital returned after 45 days. Crypto Trading Bot 60 Days: The most extensive plan, a $30000 investment offers an impressive profit of $36000, with the capital returned after 60 days. Moreover, DefiQuant is constantly refining its trading algorithms and expanding its educational offerings to keep pace with the rapidly evolving cryptocurrency landscape. This includes the integration of market sentiment analysis, technical indicators, and order book analysis to enhance trading strategies. For on-chain activities, DefiQuant's bots interact with smart contracts, enabling direct execution of trades on decentralized exchanges (DEXs) and other blockchain-based platforms. In conclusion, DefiQuant's announcement heralds a new era in cryptocurrency trading. With its advanced DeFi trading bot and cryptocurrency quant robot , DefiQuant is not just participating in the market; it's leading it. The company's forward-thinking approach, combined with a steadfast commitment to security, user experience, and education, sets a new benchmark in the industry. For traders seeking to navigate the complexities of the cryptocurrency market and achieve their financial goals, DefiQuant offers a compelling solution. Its blend of advanced technology, strategic market analysis, and comprehensive support provides a solid foundation for success in high-frequency crypto trading. For more information about DefiQuant and its high-frequency trading capabilities, please visit: www.defiquant.net Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities Dublin, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Europe Automatic Door Market - Focused Insights 2024-2029" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Europe automatic door market will be valued at around $9.57 billion in 2023 This report provides complete information regarding the adoption of automatic doors in Europe. Factors such as integrating automatic doors with intelligent building systems and IoT, shifting focus towards sustainability, and a surge in the adoption of smart homes will positively impact the European automatic door market during the forecast period. Furthermore, major players focus on strategic agreements, acquisitions, and collaboration with emerging players to enter the European automatic door market to gain access to commercially launched products. The growth of installations in new buildings and higher demand from renovations of doors and retrofit activities drive the market. The demand for retrofit and renovation activities accounted for a significant portion of the market demand in Europe. One of the primary reasons for the high adoption of innovative automatic door activation devices in European households is the rising per capita disposable income. The improving economy in many European countries has increased disposable income in Europe. The European government, in its directive for building renovations, has considered buildings as the core of society. The European populace spends an average of 90% of their time in residential or commercial buildings. For most households, renting or owning a living space accounts for a significant part of its expenses or investments. As most of the European population lives in cities and the urban environment has buildings at the core of its functioning, the government has included renovation and replacements of the buildings in its Horizon 2050 plan. European households spend approximately 6% of the total household expenditure on the maintenance and furnishings of their houses. Such factors drive the doors market in Europe, which, in turn, causes the need for automatic doors in the region. The installation of new automatic door systems in buildings and or replacement activities in existing structures will drive the market growth. Automatic doors are used in commercial, industrial, and residential sectors, including retail, hospitality, and recreational facilities, institutions such as hospitals and educational institutes, government facilities, workspaces, and offices. They are used to enhance the security of the space and protect against environmental impacts. Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 72 Forecast Period 2023 - 2029 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $9.57 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2029 $12.79 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 4.9% Regions Covered Europe MARKET STRUCTURE Market Dynamics Competitive Landscape of Europe Automatic Door Market Key Vendors Other Prominent Vendors LIST OF VENDORS Key Vendors ASSA ABLOY Boon Edam dormakaba Group GEZE Nabtesco Corporation Other Prominent Vendors CAME Deutschtec Doorson ERREKA FAAC FACE Hormann Horton Automatics KCC Group KONE LABEL Manusa MGS MOTION4 NG Automatics Ponzi Portalp QUIKO STANLEY Access Technologies TORMAX SEGMENTATION & FORECAST Type (Revenue) Sliding Door Swinging Door Revolving Door Folding Door Technology (Revenue) Infrared Sensor Microwave Sensor Others End-User (Revenue) Residential Commercial Industrial For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/qnhd2z 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 Malvern, Pa., Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Frontline Education, a leading provider of administration software purpose-built for educators in K-12, today announced its success in the Tech & Learning Awards of Excellence: Best of 2023 program, winning accolades in two significant categories, primary and secondary education. The renowned awards recognize innovative solutions that demonstrate excellence in supporting education leaders and students. Frontline Special Programs Management (SPM) was honored for its comprehensive plan management tools tailored for managing special education and diverse learner programs. Frontlines most advanced SPM offering provides a full line of services from Section 504 and Individualized Education Programs Plan Management to Service Tracking and Medicaid Billing Management. The software enables reporting that optimizes funding, supports more compliant outcomes and enables a holistic approach to serving students. Judges commended Frontline for streamlining processes, allowing schools to focus more on students' individual needs. Frontline School Health Management (SHM), K-12 Electronic Health Records for school nurses, was recognized for its commitment to keeping students and staff safe by providing robust health management tools. School nurses can use Frontline SHM to track student health trends for physical, mental, and behavioral health, document student encounters, ensure health documentation is secure and compliant, conduct and manage regular health screenings, track immunizations, and administer medication and track medication inventory. Judges were particularly impressed by Frontline's continuous evolution to address the dynamic needs of health services in schools. This award marks the third consecutive year that Frontline SHM was recognized as a vital single solution supporting school nurses and other school staff. "We are thrilled to receive these prestigious awards from Tech & Learning, acknowledging our commitment to innovation and excellence in education administrative solutions," said Kevin Haugh, Product Officer of Frontline Education. "Both Frontline Special Programs Management and Frontline School Health Management represent our dedication to supporting districts with cutting-edge tools that improve operations, enhance compliance, and also empower school leaders to increase performance and efficiency, while ultimately driving positive education outcomes." The Tech & Learning Awards' editorial team emphasized the growth and diversity of products and companies considered, making the selection process more challenging each year. Their acknowledgment reinforces Frontline Education's position as a leader in providing impactful solutions to the K-12 education sector. For more information about the awards, please visit here. To explore Frontline's innovative solutions, please visit here. #### About Frontline Frontline Education is a leading provider of school administration software, connecting solutions for student and special programs, business operations and human capital management with powerful analytics to empower educators. Frontline partners with school systems to deliver tools, data and insights that support greater efficiency and productivity, enabling school leaders to spend more time and resources executing strategies that drive educator effectiveness, student success and district excellence. Frontlines broad portfolio includes solutions for proactive recruiting and hiring, absence and time management, professional growth, student information systems, special education, special programs, Medicaid reimbursement, school health management, inventory control and asset management, payroll, benefits and financial management, and analytics solutions that help district leaders tap into their data to make more informed decisions for the benefit of their students and communities. Over 10,000 clients representing millions of educators, administrators and support personnel have partnered with Frontline Education in their efforts to develop the next generation of learners. Attachment Ukraine is counting on an early decision by the U.S. Congress to provide financial and military assistance, since its absence limits the ability of the Ukrainian army to defend itself and prepare a new counter-offensive, Head of the President's Office Andriy Yermak has said. "The Europeans have already voted for EUR 50 billion [for Ukraine]. The decision of the Congress is also crucial for us. It is important that this happens now, under these circumstances, when aid [from the United States] has subsided a little. We are holding positions, but this is very difficult. And, naturally, this does not give us the opportunity to prepare for a new counter-offensive, because our formula for success is to not stop. And we have shown this over the course of two years of war," Yermak said during talking to reporters at the President's Office on Friday. At the same time, he said Ukraine all this time continued to dialogue with U.S. colleagues and explain how important U.S. support is against the backdrop of Russian aggression. "And yesterday we saw that the first steps took place [from the United States]. We hope that the next steps will be taken as soon as possible," the head of the Presidential Office said. He also once again emphasized that the Ukrainian Defense Forces need long-range weapons and air defense systems. "You have seen how successfully we use them. It is very important to continue to protect our land," Yermak said. "But I am an optimist. I believe that very soon we will hear good news from Washington, as we did from Brussels," he said. As reported, on February 8, the upper house of the U.S. Congress supported a procedural vote for a bill on joint assistance for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan worth $95 billion. In particular, the bill includes $60 billion to support Ukraine. PALM BEACH, Fla., Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In the heart of the Town of Palm Beach, a stirring incident unfolds, casting long shadows over the trust in its police guardians. On February 8, 2024, a mere four days after the removal of "The Last Civil Rights Veteran" by Larry Rivers from a Royal Poinciana Plaza Art Gallery Town of Palm Beach Police had a heated dialogue with C.K. McWhorter after him peacefully leaving Sant Ambroeus (Palm Beach). This interaction came after the McWhorter Foundation played such a pivotal role in the removal of the art work The Last Civil War Veteran, a palpable tension now brews. The artwork, a poignant reflection on the enduring struggle for equality, had resonated deeply, its sudden absence leaving a void filled by uneasy whispers. C.K. McWhorter was criminal trespassed by Royal Poinciana Plaza for eloquently bringing attention to the issues of the confederate flag February 8, 2024 around 4:28pm. In the town of Palm Beach, Florida, the local police and fire departments enjoy the support of the Palm Beach Police & Fire Foundation, a charitable organization bolstered by contributions from town residents and the local community. This setup, while seemingly benevolent, opens the door to discussions on allegations of ethical dilemmas, particularly regarding the fairness and impartiality of law enforcement towards non-residents and visitors. An Uneasy Silence: The Shadows of Larry Rivers Last Civil War Veteran Painting Being Removed From Royal Poinciana Plaza on February 4, 2024 This incident isn't isolated but a reflection of deeper, systemic issues that challenge the very foundations of justice and equality. It underscores a distressing reality: the potential for law enforcement, influenced by private interests and local biases, to act in ways that may not always align with the principles of impartiality and fairness. Particularly for minorities and those not considered residents, the fear of being unfairly targeted or harassed by policea force that should embody protection and safetybecomes all too real. In this context, the events of February 4th and 8th are not just about a confrontation or misunderstanding but symbolize the broader concerns of a community grappling with the implications of a privately funded police force. It raises alarming questions about whose interests are truly being served and at what cost to the civil liberties and rights of all citizens, especially the most vulnerable. The Foundation of Support The Palm Beach Police & Fire Foundation operates as a 501(c)(3) organization, dedicated to supporting the town's first responders through the management and disbursement of tax-deductible gifts and contributions. This support system is crucial, providing emergency financial assistance, higher education scholarships, and department supplements, among other benefits. Local Businesses and Residents as Patrons Significant contributions from local businesses, such as Royal Poinciana Plaza & Flagler System, Inc., which owns prestigious properties including The Breakers Palm Beach, demonstrate the community's vested interest in the welfare and operational capacity of its police and fire departments. While these donations are instrumental in maintaining a well-equipped and responsive department, they raise questions about the potential influence donors may wield over law enforcement priorities and practices. Ethical Considerations The core ethical concern revolves around whether financial contributions from local businesses and affluent residents could lead has lead to bias in policing practices, favoring residents over non-residents and visitors. The fact is that this financial model could inadvertently create a two-tiered system of justice, where the interests of contributors are prioritized over those of outsiders. This scenario presents a classic ethical dilemma: balancing the need for well-funded public services against the imperative for fair and unbiased law enforcement. When the police force is significantly supported by private donations, there is a obvious risk, that policing can be swayed by the interests of the donors/residents. This concern is not unique to Palm Beach but reflects a broader issue facing communities where private funding plays a significant role in public services. A Path Forward Addressing this ethical quandary requires transparency in how donations are utilized and strict guidelines to ensure that law enforcement remains impartial. Establishing an independent oversight mechanism could help mitigate concerns, ensuring that contributions do not influence policing practices or priorities. Moreover, fostering open dialogue between the police department, residents, and non-residents can enhance trust and dispel bias. In conclusion, while the support from local businesses and residents for the Palm Beach Police & Fire Foundation underscores a commendable commitment to public safety, it also highlights the need for vigilance to maintain the ethical integrity of law enforcement. Balancing generosity with impartiality is crucial to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their relationship to the community, are treated equitably by those sworn to protect and serve. More Details on this matter to Follow as they unfold: Regulatory Considerations: This press release is not intended to constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities. Any offers, sales, or purchases will be made in accordance with applicable securities laws and regulations. McWhorter Foundation has not registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and may operate under exemptions. Any investment decisions should be made in consultation with appropriate legal and financial advisors, considering the individual circumstances and objectives of potential investors. Forward-Looking Statements: Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, and we caution you not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. We do not undertake any 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. Actual results or outcomes may differ materially from those indicated or suggested by any forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, but not limited to, regulatory and legal developments, market conditions, and the outcome of negotiations. We disclaim any intention or obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1736db5d-9193-4555-8a20-1b1ad21f6b6c Dublin, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Global IV & Oral Iron Drugs Market - Focused Insights 2024-2029" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The global IV and Oral Iron Drugs market, valued at $7.66 billion in 2023, will experience robust growth by 2029, expanding at a CAGR of 13.47% This surge is primarily driven by the increasing prevalence of Iron Deficiency (ID) and Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA) globally, coupled with a heightened awareness among patients about effective treatment options. The market's expansion is further propelled by the rising occurrence of chronic diseases such as Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), heart failure, gastrointestinal disorders, and cancer, which can lead to iron deficiency, particularly in surgical patients. Key factors fueling market growth include the growing demand for dextran-free iron therapeutics and the rising need for iron drugs among dialysis and non-dialysis kidney patients. The market also benefits from the development of investigational latest generation IV & oral iron drugs with broader indications and improved treatment outcomes. Market leaders like Vifor Pharma are significantly contributing with products such as Ferinject (marketed as Injectafer in the US) and Venofer, which are gaining traction, especially among dialysis patients. The oral iron drug segment, comprising both prescription and OTC preparations, is expanding steadily, although slower than IV iron drugs, with significant growth in emerging and low-income countries due to their cost-effectiveness. The market's growth is not just confined to developed nations; it's also significant in developing countries across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, where iron deficiency poses a severe health challenge. This growth is further augmented by innovations in hospital pharmacy practice and retail store involvement, facilitating accessibility and awareness among consumers. The hospital pharmacies segment is expected to grow due to their specialized services in iron medicines. At the same time, retail stores continue to play a crucial role due to immediate product availability and expert guidance. The prevalence of iron deficiency in CKD patients, which is estimated to be around 70%, highlights the critical need for iron therapy with IV and oral iron drugs. As the global IV & oral iron drugs market evolves, key vendors like Vifor Pharma, Daiichi Sankyo Group, AMAG Pharmaceuticals, and others focus on product innovations and expanded label approvals to meet the growing demands and adapt to new patient groups. The market, characterized by the presence of global, regional, and local players, is highly competitive with a wide array of branded and generic drug offerings. KEY HIGHLIGHTS: The IV & oral iron drugs market represents a rapidly growing and most effective category of therapeutics that helps individuals with ID & IDA to improve their quality of life. By route of administration, the intravenous (IV) segment was valued at $4.40 billion in 2023. This growth mainly results from the expected launch of branded IV iron drugs in new markets and expanded indication approval for existing commercially available brands. One of the primary reasons for this significant growth rate is the increased uptake of branded IV drugs in the US and European markets. By patient group, the adult segment is going to witness notable growth during the forecast period. In 2023, the adult segment accounted for 83.33% of the global IV & oral iron drugs market. The segment is dominating the market due to the higher incidence/ prevalence of ID and IDA among elderly people across the world. By distribution channel, the hospital pharmacies segment is expected to grow at a significant CAGR. Hospital pharmacies offer iron drugs with adequate discounts and rebates. Thus offering a cost-effective way to minimize the burden on patients and healthcare systems. By application, In 2023, the nephrology segment accounted for 60.84% of the global IV & oral iron drugs market. The market for iron drugs in nephrology is increasing faster, and the trend is likely to continue during the forecast period due to the rising prevalence of CKD worldwide. The segment accounted for the largest market share owing to the increasing uptake of iron drugs to treat CKD. CSL Vifor, Covis Pharmaceuticals, Daiichi Sankyo, Akebia Therapeutics, Shield Therapeutics, and others are some of the leading players currently dominating the global IV & Oral iron drugs market. The major players focus on strategic acquisitions and collaborations with emerging players to enter the IV & Oral Iron Drugs market and to gain access to commercially launched products. Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 126 Forecast Period 2023 - 2029 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $7.66 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2029 $16.34 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 13.4% Regions Covered Global MARKET STRUCTURE Market Dynamics Competitive Landscape of IV & Oral Iron Drugs Market Key Vendors Other Prominent Vendors VENDORS LIST Key Vendors CSL Vifor Daiichi Sankyo Covis Pharmaceuticals Akebia Therapeutics Shield Therapeutics Other Prominent Vendors Pharmacosmos AbbVie Sanofi AOP Orphan Pharmaceuticals Azad Pharmaceuticals Pfizer Ciron Drugs & Pharmaceuticals Rockwell Medical Salveo Lifecare Sunny Pharmaceuticals Zydus LifeSciences Nippon Shinyaku Alinter Group Alora Pharmaceuticals DSE Healthcare GSK plc PRODUCT SEGMENTATION & FORECAST Route of Administration Intravenous Oral Patient Group Adults Pediatrics Distribution Channel Hospital Pharmacies Offline Retail Pharmacies Online Channels Application Nephrology Obstetrics & Gynaecology Surgery Gastroenterology Oncology Heart Failure For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/cvkbbp 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 Austin, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation (TSAHC) has awarded $31.5 million in Private Activity Bonds to Foundation Communities to provide capital for the construction and development of Norman Commons Apartments in Austin. When complete, Norman Commons will create 156 units of affordable rental housing targeted for low-income households who earn no more than 60% of the Median Family Income. Sixteen of the units will be set aside for households at risk of homelessness. Norman Commons will be located in East Austin, next to the Boggy Creek neighborhood, in an area that includes apartment communities and commercial buildings. The property is located in the Austin Independent School District next door to Norman-Sims Elementary. Foundation Communities will provide a Learning Center on-site and free services for residents and neighbors like afterschool programs, summer programs, a healthy food pantry, and educational, financial, and health classes. Other nearby amenities include public art, playgrounds, fitness stations, a walking trail, and a ball court. "Providing financing for Norman Commons directly aligns with TSAHCs mission and builds upon our partnerships with high caliber nonprofits like Foundation Communities. We're excited to support this development because it provides not only a quality, affordable place to live but a community enriched with services and amenities for residents and the neighborhood," said David Long, TSAHC President. The development will sit next to Ada Anderson Place, a community of 32 for-sale homes that will be built by Austin nonprofit Guadalupe Neighborhood Development Corporation (GNDC). The homes will be included in GNDCs expanding community land trust, thereby ensuring generational affordable homeownership opportunities for the neighborhood. TSAHC approved $31.5 million in Private Activity Bonds to provide the primary financing toward the $62.3 million budget for the project. The remaining financing came from Wells Fargo, housing tax credit equity syndicated by Wells Fargo, Capital Magnet Funds, the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas, and the Austin Housing Finance Corporation which provided the land and funding through the use of Project Connect dollars and General Obligation Bond funds. We are excited about having this opportunity to help more lower-income families in Austin find stability and success through affordable housing and support services, said Foundation Communities Executive Director Walter Moreau. We greatly appreciate TSAHC and everyone else who provided funding support for Norman Commons. Foundation Communities is an Austin based non-profit, well known for providing high-quality rental housing for low- and moderate-income families and seniors, as well as operating several single room occupancy apartments that provide permanent supportive housing for extremely low-income individuals at risk of becoming homeless or who are formerly homeless. To date, theyve built or renovated 25 affordable communities across Central Texas, providing homes for more than 7,000 Central Texans. In addition to housing, Foundation Communities also provides numerous services including after-school care, adult educational programs, free tax preparation and health insurance enrollment, various healthy living initiatives and family self-sufficiency programs. ### About Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation The Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation (TSAHC) is a self-sustaining nonprofit whose mission is to meet the housing needs of underserved Texans through innovative programs and solutions. We are driven by a shared belief that every Texan deserves the opportunity to live in safe, decent and affordable housing. For more information, please visit www.tsahc.org. About Foundation Communities Foundation Communities is a local, homegrown non-profit. They provide affordable, attractive homes and free on-site support services for thousands of families with kids, as well as veterans, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. They offer an innovative, proven model that empowers their residents and neighbors to achieve educational success, financial stability, and healthier lifestyles. They own and operate 28 apartment communities 25 in Austin and three more in North Texas. Attachment CALGARY, Alberta, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cenovus Energy Inc. (TSX: CVE) (NYSE: CVE) will release its fourth-quarter and full-year 2023 results on Thursday, February 15. The news release will provide consolidated fourth-quarter and full-year operating and financial information. The companys quarterly and 2023 financial statements will be available on Cenovuss website, cenovus.com. Conference call: 9 a.m. MT (11 a.m. ET) To join the conference call without operator assistance, please register here approximately 5 minutes in advance to receive an automated call-back when the session begins. Alternatively, you can dial 888-664-6383 (toll-free in North America) or 416-764-8650 to reach an operator who will place you in the call. Access the live audio webcast here. Cenovus Energy Inc. Cenovus Energy Inc. is an integrated energy company with oil and natural gas production operations in Canada and the Asia Pacific region, and upgrading, refining and marketing operations in Canada and the United States. The company is focused on managing its assets in a safe, innovative and cost-efficient manner, integrating environmental, social and governance considerations into its business plans. Cenovus common shares and warrants are listed on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges, and the companys preferred shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange. For more information, visit cenovus.com. Find Cenovus on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram. Cenovus contacts: HALIFAX, Nova Scotia, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Java Blend employees terminated by Java Blend in late January will be holding a community rally outside the cafe on Saturday. WHAT : Justice for Terminated Java Blend Employees Rally WHEN : Saturday February 10, 2024 @ 1 pm (TOMORROW!) WHERE : Java Blend Cafe at 6027 North St., Halifax In addition to worker leaders, several community leaders are expected to speak, including NS NDP Leader Claudia Chender. BACKGROUND Nine Java Blend employees, including the four leaders of a union drive, were illegally terminated on January 23 according to an Unfair Labour Practice complaint filed by the Service Employees International Union. The employers conduct has all the hallmarks of an orchestrated campaign of retaliation aimed at crushing workers rights, according to the complaint. For more information please visit www.seiulocal2.ca/java-blend-illegally-terminated-union-supporters-according-to-legal-complaint/ SEIU Local 2 represents 20,000 workers in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta. We are proud members of the largest, fastest growing and most dynamic union in North America. LOS ANGELES, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP (GPM) reminds investors of the upcoming March 25, 2024 deadline to file a lead plaintiff motion in the class action filed on behalf of investors who purchased or otherwise acquired Evolution AB (publ) (Evolution or the Company) (OTC: EVVTY) American Depositary Shares (ADSs) between February 14, 2019 and October 25, 2023, inclusive (the Class Period). If you suffered a loss on your Evolution investments or would like to inquire about potentially pursuing claims to recover your loss under the federal securities laws, you can submit your contact information at www.glancylaw.com/cases/Evolution-AB/. You can also contact Charles H. Linehan, of GPM at 310-201-9150, Toll-Free at 888-773-9224, or via email at shareholders@glancylaw.com to learn more about your rights. On January 24, 2022, Analyst Alpha Generation Limited released an analytical report stating that a significant portion of Evolutions revenue could be at risk due to future regulatory clampdowns and that Evolution was exposed to revenues from . . . illegal gambling activities. On this news, Evolutions stock price fell $19.78, or 14.7%, to close at $115.00 per share on January 27, 2022, thereby injuring investors. Then, on April 25, 2022, after market hours, the Australian gambling regulator announced that it had requested that Australian internet service providers block six online gambling sites, five of which were customers of Evolution, for engaging in illegal gambling. On this news, Evolutions stock price fell $6.02, or 6.2%, to close at $90.71 per share on April 26, 2022. Then, on May 4, 2022, reports revealed that the Swedish Administrative Court had upheld most of the record Swedish fines of approximately $17.8 million that had been imposed on brands operated by customers of Evolution in relation to breaches of Swedish online gambling regulations. On this news, Evolutions stock price fell $12.34, or 10.9%, to close at $101.09 per share on May 5, 2022. Then, on May 7, 2022, the press reported that industry participants had lobbied the UK government against an overhaul of gambling laws in the UK, revealing the potential threat of a UK gambling law overhaul. On this news, Evolutions stock price fell $14.84, or 14.5%, over two consecutive trading days, to close at $87.25 per share on May 11, 2022. Then, on April 27, 2023, Evolution released its first quarter 2023 financial results, revealing that its revenue from its RNG segment had experiences no growth, while the North American segment had experienced low growth. On this news, Evolutions stock price fell $10.94 over consecutive trading days to close at $125.56 per share on May 2, 2023. Then, on October 26, 2023, Evolution released its third quarter 2023 financial results, disclosing that the Company was facing delays in opening new studios and revealing, once more, no growth in revenue from either the RNG or North American segment. On this news, Evolutions stock price fell $7.16, or 7.6%, to close at $86.79 per share on October 27, 2023, thereby injuring investors further. The complaint filed in this class action alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements, as well as failed to disclose material adverse facts about the Companys business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, Defendants failed to disclose to investors: (1) that in allowing play from certain jurisdictions, multiple customers of Evolutions were, or were deemed by regulators to be, unlicensed and/or in breach of the laws of those jurisdictions; (2) that Defendants misrepresented the extent of Evolutions involvement with regulatorily non-compliant customers; and (3) as a result, Defendants positive statements about the Companys business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times. Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook. If you purchased or otherwise acquired Evolution ADSs during the Class Period, you may move the Court no later than March 25, 2024 to request appointment as lead plaintiff in this putative class action lawsuit. To be a member of the class action you need not take any action at this time; you may retain counsel of your choice or take no action and remain an absent member of the class action. If you wish to learn more about this class action, or if you have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to the pending class action lawsuit, please contact Charles Linehan, Esquire, of GPM, 1925 Century Park East, Suite 2100, Los Angeles, California 90067 at 310-201-9150, Toll-Free at 888-773-9224, by email to shareholders@glancylaw.com, or visit our website at www.glancylaw.com. If you inquire by email please include your mailing address, telephone number and number of shares purchased. This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules. Contacts Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP, Los Angeles Charles Linehan, 310-201-9150 or 888-773-9224 shareholders@glancylaw.com www.glancylaw.com NEW YORK, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of common stock of GrafTech International Ltd. (NYSE: EAF) between February 8, 2019 and August 3, 2023, both dates inclusive (the Class Period), of the important March 25, 2024 lead plaintiff deadline. SO WHAT: If you purchased GrafTech common stock during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the GrafTech class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=22210 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email pkim@rosenlegal.com or cases@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than March 25, 2024. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs Bar. Many of the firms attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers. DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) GrafTechs manufacturing operations in Monterrey, Mexico had for decades chronically contaminated neighboring communities with harmful carcinogenic gasses and particulate matter; (2) GrafTech had signed agreements with local authorities committing itself to improving the environmental performance of its Monterrey facility, but repeatedly failed to honor these commitments; (3) GrafTech had been repeatedly warned over an approximately 30-year period regarding its wanton disregard for the environment and health and well-being of people near its operations in Monterrey, Mexico; (4) GrafTechs operations in Monterrey, Mexico were not in compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations; (5) GrafTech had failed to adequately remediate the environmental problems caused by the Monterrey facility following the 2019 administrative proceeding conducted by the Department of Sustainable Development of the State of Nuevo Leon; (6) the government of Apodaca had sought intervention from the State of Nuevo Leon authorities to curtail and prevent the adverse environmental impacts and noncompliance with environmental laws and regulations caused by the Monterrey facility; (7) GrafTechs purported cost leadership was achieved in substantial part by failing to implement appropriate and effective environmental safeguards at its manufacturing facility in Monterrey, Mexico; (8) GrafTechs capital expenditures and/or related operational projects were woefully insufficient to adequately address the harm that GrafTechs operations in Monterrey, Mexico had inflicted on the environment and people within the neighboring communities; (9) as a result of the above, GrafTech was acutely exposed to undisclosed material risks that GrafTechs manufacturing operations in Monterrey, Mexico would be severely disrupted by government action or enforcement; and (10) as a result of the above, GrafTech was acutely exposed to undisclosed material risks that its supplies of pin stock and graphite electrodes would be withdrawn and/or materially diminished, thereby materially harming GrafTechs business, operations, reputation, and financial results. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages. To join the GrafTech class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=22210 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email pkim@rosenlegal.com or cases@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investors ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff. Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Contact Information: Laurence Rosen, Esq. Phillip Kim, Esq. The Rosen Law Firm, P.A. 275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor New York, NY 10016 Tel: (212) 686-1060 Toll Free: (866) 767-3653 Fax: (212) 202-3827 lrosen@rosenlegal.com pkim@rosenlegal.com cases@rosenlegal.com www.rosenlegal.com SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Hagens Berman urges Cummins Inc. (NYSE: CMI) investors who suffered substantial losses to submit your losses now. Class Period: Apr. 30, 2019 Dec. 21, 2023 Lead Plaintiff Deadline: Mar. 15, 2024 Visit: www.hbsslaw.com/investor-fraud/cmi Contact An Attorney Now: CMI@hbsslaw.com 844-916-0895 Cummins Inc. (CMI) Securities Fraud Class Action: In a report to clients, analysts at UBS recently commented on Cummins agreement to pay a $1.675 billion fine for installing devices on hundreds of thousands of engines to allow them to emit excess pollution, the largest-ever civil penalty for a Clean Air Act violation. UBS remarked that the settlement is bigger than we were expecting, noting that it equates to ~5.8% of [Cummins] current market cap. UBS emphasized the cash drag the settlement presents, stating that payment /charge are not tax deductible and there is no insurance to reduce the amount CMI has to pay out, and that CMI might do some short term borrowing to finance a part of it. In addition to negative analyst sentiment, Cummins also faces a recently filed securities fraud class action stemming from the EPA/Carb settlement. The complaint there alleges Cummins misrepresented and concealed that: (1) contrary to its post-April 2019 assurances about its commitment to compliance, Cummins continued to produce engines utilizing undisclosed engine control software features from 2019 to 2023; and (2) accordingly, the company understated its legal and regulatory risks. We are investigating whether Cummins intentionally made false statements concerning its public health and regulatory compliance, said Reed Kathrein, the Hagens Berman partner leading the firms investigation. We are also investigating when the directors knew of the continued non-compliance. If you invested in Cummins and have substantial losses, or have knowledge that may assist the firms investigation, submit your losses now If youd like more information and answers to frequently asked questions about the Cummins investigation, read more Whistleblowers: Persons with non-public information regarding Cummins should consider their options to help in the investigation or take advantage of the SEC Whistleblower program. Under the new program, whistleblowers who provide original information may receive rewards totaling up to 30 percent of any successful recovery made by the SEC. For more information, call Reed Kathrein at 844-916-0895 or email CMI@hbsslaw.com. About Hagens Berman Hagens Berman is a global plaintiffs rights complex litigation law firm focusing on corporate accountability through class-action law. The firm is home to a robust securities litigation practice and represents investors as well as whistleblowers, workers, consumers and others in cases achieving real results for those harmed by corporate negligence and fraud. More about the firm and its successes can be found at hbsslaw.com. Follow the firm for updates and news at @ClassActionLaw. Attorney advertising. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Services may be performed by attorneys in any of our offices. Ottawa, On, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, the Supreme Court of Canada upheld the constitutional validity of An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Metis children, youth and families (the Act) in a historic and unanimous judgement. The Act (previously known as Bill C-92) is an innovative and piece of federal legislation that the Metis Nation was a part of developing and that it fully supports. As such, the Metis National Council and its Governing Members intervened at the Supreme Court of Canada to ensure the Act was upheld. We are extremely pleased that the Supreme Court of Canada was unanimous in upholding this forward looking, innovative and reconciliation-based piece of legislation, said Metis National Council President Cassidy Caron. Caron added, The Act provides a legislative framework for our Metis governments to fully exercise their jurisdiction in relation to child and family services, and many are already doing so. This judgement confirms this work is on a solid legislative and constitutional foundation. The decision also confirms that the federal government is on the right track in advancing legislation that affirms rights protected by section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982, as opposed to continuing to deny those rights. Currently, Bill C-53: An Act to Recognition Certain Metis Governments in Ontario, Saskatchewan and Alberta is before Parliament, which is premised on the same affirmation of rights. The judgement sends the strong message that Parliament is on the right track in adopting this type of reconciliation-based legislation. I want to applaud the current federal government in advancing the Act with the Metis Nation and other Indigenous peoples. Todays decision confirms this type of collaboration with Indigenous is the way forward. We look forward to implementing this Act and seeing Bill C-53 also become law soon. Following the release of todays decision, the Metis National Council and Governing Members will complete a detailed review of the Supreme Court of Canadas decision to determine its impacts on Metis governments and citizens across the Homeland and provide additional comments in the days ahead. -30- Since 1983, the Metis National Council has been the national and international voice of the Metis Nation within Canada. Through the Canada-Metis Nation Accord, the MNC advocates on behalf of its Governing Membersthe democratically elected Metis Governments of Ontario, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbiato advance Metis rights and interests within their respective jurisdictions, including the implementation of the Metis Nations inherent right to self-determination and self-government. The MNC is committed to accountability and transparency within its operations, and to its relationships with MNC Governing Members. Cassidy Caron is the President of the Metis National Council. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated the critical importance of the U.S. Congress adopting an aid package for Ukraine. "We cannot stop in our fight against the aggressor. For this fight to be effective, we need the support of allies, especially the United States. I am convinced that the decision to provide necessary aid to Ukraine will be passed by Congress. This will strengthen our economy and Armed Forces," he said on Friday at a meeting with a bipartisan delegation of the U.S. House of Representatives led by Chairman of the House Permanent Committee on Intelligence Mike Turner, as well as Congressmen Jason Crow, James Gill, Zach Nunn and Abigail Spanberger. The president also said the priority remains to obtain additional air defense systems to effectively protect civilians and critical infrastructure. It is also important to develop bilateral cooperation to localize joint production in Ukraine of modern drones and electronic warfare equipment. The head of state noted the importance of the congressmen's visit to Ukraine at a time when Russia continues its terror against peaceful cities and civilian infrastructure, carrying out massive missile attacks and Iranian drones. "This visit demonstrates the powerful bipartisan support for Ukraine, confirming that the United States is a strategic partner helping us effectively resist the aggressor. Your arrival is important for boosting the morale of our people, especially for those heroes fighting on the front lines today," Zelenskyy said. TSX: DIAM SASKATOON, Feb. 8, 2024 - Star Diamond Corp. (TSX: DIAM) ("Star Diamond" or the "Company") announces that it is extending the expiry date (the "Warrant Extension") and amending the exercise price (the "Exercise Price Amendment") of the common share purchase warrants ("Warrants") of the Company issued on April 6, 2022 and April 21, 2022. The amendments will take effect on February 23, 2024. Pursuant to the Warrant Extension the term of the Warrants will be extended by 18 months, such that after giving effect to the Warrant Extension, each Warrant issued on April 6, 2022, having an initial expiry date of April 6, 2024, will expire on October 6, 2025 and each Warrant issued on April 21, 2022, having an initial expiry date of April 21, 2024, will expire on October 21, 2025. Pursuant to the Exercise Price Amendment all the Warrants will be exercisable to purchase a common share of the Company at a price of $0.15 per common share. None of the Warrants are held by insiders of the Company. The Toronto Stock Exchange has provided conditional approval for the Warrant Extension and Exercise Price Amendment with an effective date for the amendments of February 23, 2024. About Star Diamond Corporation Star Diamond is a Canadian-based corporation engaged in the acquisition, exploration and development of mineral properties. Shares of Star Diamond trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the trading symbol "DIAM". Star Diamond's most significant asset is its interest in the Fort a la Corne property in central Saskatchewan. These kimberlites are located in close proximity to established infrastructure, including paved highways and the electrical power grid, which provide significant advantages for future mine development. For further information, please contact: Phone: (306) 664-2202 Email: stardiamondcorp@stardiamondcorp.com Website: www.stardiamondcorp.com Stay Connected with Us: Twitter: https://twitter.com/StarDiamondCorp LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/star-diamond-corp Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Star-Diamond-Corp/100058096376664/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stardiamondcorp/ Caution Regarding Forward-looking Statements This press release contains "forward-looking statements" and/or "forward-looking information" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. The use of any of the words "anticipate", "plan", "aim", "target", "contemplate", "continue", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "propose", "might", "may", "will", "shall", "project", "should", "could", "would", "believe", "predict", "forecast", "pursue", "potential", "possible", "capable" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, the amendments to the Warrants and receipt by the Company of final approval of the Toronto Stock Exchange in respect of amendments to the Warrants. These forward-looking statements are based on Star Diamond's current beliefs as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to it and involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific. Risks exist that forward-looking statements will not be achieved due to a number of factors including, but not limited to, the receipt of receipt of final approval of the Toronto Stock Exchange in respect of the amendments to the Warrants. Although management of Star Diamond considers the assumptions contained in forward-looking statements to be reasonable based on information currently available to Star Diamond, those assumptions may prove to be incorrect. When making decisions with respect to Star Diamond, investors and others should not place undue reliance on these statements and should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Star Diamond does not undertake any obligation to release publicly revisions to any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this release, or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as may be required under applicable securities laws. Investors should not assume that any lack of update to a previously issued forward-looking statement constitutes a reaffirmation of that statement. Continued reliance on forward-looking statements is at investors' own risk. SOURCE Star Diamond Corp. Richmond Minerals Inc. (TSX-V: RMD) ("Richmond" or the "Company") is pleased to provide an update for exploration work at the Company's Ridley Lake Gold Project (the "Property") located in the west central area of the Swayze Greenstone belt approximately 35 kilometres east of Newmont's Borden Gold Project. As reported in 2015 and 2016 IP and Magnetic surveys were successful in identifying well-defined geophysical anomalies characterized by high chargeability and resistivity with prominent coincidental magnetic anomalies (the "Aguara East anomalies"), having a northeast orientation and a strike length in excess of 825 metres. Modelling of the data obtained from the July 2015 and November 2016 combined surveys identified multiple targets at vertical depths down to the IP survey limit of approximately 200 metres. Drill testing of these IP/Mag targets in the Aguarra Zone in 2017 and 2020 yielded drill intersections hi-lighted by 18.3 g/t gold over 3 m in hole RS-20-33 (from 329m to 332m) and 0.33 g/t gold over 136 m in hole RS-17-30. In December 2023 the Company completed 17.15 km of Spectral Induced Polarization (IP)/Resistivity (dipole-dipole, a=50 m, n= 1 to 6) and Magnetic surveys (the "Survey") to test for anomalous responses at the Cyril Knight Zone located approximately 800 m due north of the Aguara Zone. Overall the IP/Resistivity Survey of the CK Grid resulted in unusual discoveries. The contour map apparent chargeability (mV/V), derived from the of the combined data of the CK, Agaura East and, Agaura West Grids, show two, markedly different apparent chargeability regimes. The southern Regime IP-A, that covers the Agaura East and Agaura West grids is characterized by northwest striking, discrete, well defined IP anomalous trends, as opposed to the northern Cyril Knight Zone Regime IP-B where the anomalous responses are broad and continuous along almost entire survey lines. Specifically seven IP anomalous horizons were identified within the IP-B regime. The trends are sub-parallel and confirm with the northeast trending geology. The Trends are identified Trends RW-1, RW-4, RW-5, RIP-6 and the discontinuous RW-7. The significant trend is RW-1, and may form the westerly continuation of the of Trend RIP-1A of the Aguara East Grid and is centered about the Cyril Knight Grid base line 0 extending to L600W located between Lines 75W and 150W. The trend is associated with apparent resistivities exciding 10,000 ohm-m and is suggestive of possible strong alteration within this area of the Property. The prominent apparent chargeability anomalous trend identified as RW-5 extends from L225W to L750W and is found within the northern area of the grid, and may represent the extension of Trend RIP-5 of the Aguara East Grid. RW-5 is characterized by apparent resistivities of 1,000 ohm-m or lower. Further west of L750W the signatures become complex and imply the depth of these wide source(s) may be 100 m or greater. Trend RW-6 consists of anomalous IP responses that were observed at dipole separations n=8 and n=9, and are indicative of deeper sources. The associated resistivities here exceed 10,000 ohm-m and may also be associated with strong alteration. It is noted the wide anomalous IP responses with larger dipole separations (n=7, 8 and 9) at L900W may be in part of the northwesterly extension of RW-6. Trend RW-7 is detected intermittently at larger dipole separations indicating greater depths to the sources. The trend is located between Trend RW-5 in the north and RW-1 on the south and is well defined along Lines 525W 375W and 300W. Significantly, the associated apparent resistivities are more than 10,000 ohm-m. Company management believe this trend is very promising and worthy of follow-up drill testing. Trend RW-4 is noted in pseudo-sections from L75W to L375W. It is characterized by apparent chargeabilities exceeding 10 mV/V. RW-4 is the westerly extension of RIP-6 of the East grid. A formational source is suspected and is of no further interest for the time being. Multiple drill hole collar locations have been recommended for follow-up testing of these new targets and plans are underway for the resumption of drilling in the late winter and early spring of 2024. Warren Hawkins, P.Eng, a "Qualified Person", within the meaning of Nation Instrument 43-101- Standards of Disclosure for Minerals Projects, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release. Mr. Hawkins is not considered to be "independent" of the Corporation (as defined in National Instrument 43-101), as he currently holds securities of the Corporation. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. On Behalf of Richmond Minerals, David Ellis President, Richmond Minerals Inc. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: Certain disclosure in this release constitutes forward-looking statements. In making the forward-looking statements in this release, the Company has applied certain factors and assumptions that are based on the Company's current beliefs as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company. Although the Company considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available to it, they may prove to be incorrect, and the forward-looking statements in this release are subject to numerous risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause future results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240208284298/en/ Contact For further information: David Ellis at (416) 603-2114 HALIFAX, Feb. 08, 2024 - Erdene Resource Development Corp. (TSX:ERD; MSE:ERDN) ("Erdene" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the execution of debt finance agreements for up to US$80 million with Mongolian Mining Corporation ("MMC") to fund construction of the high-grade, open-pit Bayan Khundii Gold Project ("Bayan Khundii", "BK" or "Project") in southwestern Mongolia. Peter Akerley, Erdene's President and CEO stated, "We are very pleased to close the financing for the Bayan Khundii Gold Project with our strategic partner MMC, Mongolia's leading publicly traded mining company. With first gold scheduled in 2025, Bayan Khundii will be one of the highest grade, open pit gold mines globally and Mongolia's largest primary gold producer when it reaches full production." Mr. Akerley continued, "The strengthening of our relationship with MMC through this financing supports our goal of creating a major new mining district in southwestern Mongolia. With MMC's experience in large scale mining, expertise in construction, power supply, transportation and logistics, and national and international relationships, the Bayan Khundii Gold Project will form a strong foundation for future growth in the Khundii Minerals District. Together we will grow the Mongolian mining sector, increase the industry's contribution to the national economy and create value for our shareholders." Bayan Khundii Financing On February 8, 2024, Erdene executed financing documents with MMC to develop the Bayan Khundii Gold Project. The financing has been structured as a shareholder loan from MMC to Erdene Mongol LLC ("EM"), the entity co-owned by Erdene and MMC that holds the Bayan Khundii mining license, as well as the Altan Nar mining license and highly prospective Ulaan exploration license. The shareholder loan is for US$50 million providing the funding for construction of the Bayan Khundii gold mine and processing complex. The loan may be drawn in up to five tranches, in multiples of at least US$5 million. The loan will mature five years from the date of first draw, and accrue interest at a rate of 13.8%, paid quarterly in arrears. EM has the option to capitalize the first four interest payments. The loan will be repayable in full upon maturity. A further US$30 million, under the same terms, is available at MMC's discretion. EM is also in discussions with Mongolian commercial banks on financing for up to $30 million. The shareholder loan will be secured by a 50% guarantee by Erdene and Erdene's interests in the Project, including its shares of EM and NSR interest, as well as preferential rights over the Khundii, Altan Nar and Ulaan licenses. For so long as the loan is outstanding, MMC will be granted priority voting rights under the Strategic Alliance agreement between the parties and a right of first refusal over Erdene's Zuun Mod project. Additionally, Erdene has the right to purchase 50% of the loan and participate as a lending shareholder on the same terms as MMC. This financing follows the investment of US$40 million by MMC for a 50% equity interest in EM as part of the Strategic Alliance Agreement (see press release here). In total, MMC will fund up to US$120 million into the development of the Bayan Khundii Gold Project. Highlights of the Strategic Alliance include: MMC is Mongolia's largest internationally traded mining company, listed on the main board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEx: 975). MMC has invested US$40 million in EM, Erdene's Mongolian subsidiary holding the Khundii and Altan Nar mining licenses and the Ulaan exploration license. Erdene retains a 50% equity interest in EM and a 5.0% Net Smelter Return ("NSR") royalty on production from the Khundii, Altan Nar and Ulaan licenses, as well as any properties acquired within a 700km 2 area of interest beyond the first 400,000 ounces gold recovered. area of interest beyond the first 400,000 ounces gold recovered. Erdene maintains a 100% interest in its large Zuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper deposit and Khuvyn Khar Copper project, located approximately 30 kilometres east of Bayan Khundii, and adjacent to a planned railway development. About Erdene Erdene Resource Development Corp. is a Canada-based resource company focused on the acquisition, exploration, and development of precious and base metals in underexplored and highly prospective Mongolia. The Company has interests in three mining licenses and an exploration license in Southwest Mongolia, where exploration success has led to the discovery and definition of the Khundii Minerals District. Erdene Resource Development Corp. is listed on the Toronto and the Mongolian stock exchanges. Further information is available at www.erdene.com. Important information may be disseminated exclusively via the website; investors should consult the site to access this information. Forward-Looking Statements Certain information regarding Erdene contained herein, including statements concerning the timing of production at Bayan Khundii and expectations as to the size and impact of Bayan Khundii and other mineral projects in Mongolia, may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements may include estimates, plans, expectations, opinions, forecasts, projections, guidance or other statements that are not statements of fact. Although Erdene believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. Erdene cautions that actual performance will be affected by a number of factors, most of which are beyond its control, and that future events and results may vary substantially from what Erdene currently foresees. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include the ability to obtain required third party approvals, market prices, exploitation and exploration results, continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions. The forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. The information contained herein is stated as of the current date and is subject to change after that date. The Company does not assume the obligation to revise or update these forward-looking statements, except as may be required under applicable securities laws. NO REGULATORY AUTHORITY HAS APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THE CONTENTS OF THIS RELEASE Erdene Contact Information Peter C. Akerley, President and CEO, or Robert Jenkins, CFO The U.S. Senate must make a decision before 19:00 local time (02:00 Kyiv time) regarding the submission of amendments to the bill, including support for Ukraine, Ambassador of Ukraine to the U.S. Oksana Markarova said. "The Senate has already started its discussions, for now this is a procedure for discussing how amendments will be submitted, how we will move forward, and until 19:00 here [in Washington], it will already be night at home [02.00 at night Kyiv time], a decision will have to be made. If the senators come to an agreement on how they will submit amendments and how to move forward, then it will immediately be known how quickly we will move on to the consideration of the substance," Markarova said on a national telethon on Friday evening. She said the embassy is actively working to ensure that the bill "becomes law as soon as possible." The ambassador positively assessed the visit to Kyiv of a bipartisan delegation of the U.S. Congress and added that this is "an important visit that will be of great importance not only for the discussions that will take place today in Kyiv, but also when the delegation returns back." As reported, on February 8, a $95.34 billion bill, including aid to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan, received procedural support in the Senate. Vancouver, February 8, 2024 - Akwaaba Mining Ltd. (TSXV: AML) ("Akwaaba" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it intends to complete a non-brokered private placement financing comprising the sale of up to 740,000 common shares ("Shares"), to be sold at $0.14 per Share for gross proceeds of up to $103,600 CAD (the "Offering"). The Offering will be made available to subscribers pursuant to the Accredited Investor exemption and the Employee, Executive Officer, Director and Consultant exemptions under 2.3 and 2.24 of National Instrument 45-106 Prospectus Exemptions. Certain shares of the proposed Offering will be issued directly or indirectly to Allan Green, CEO and director of the Company, who will participate in the financing. Mr. Green's participation in the Offering will constitute a related party transaction under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company has determined that the transaction will be exempt from formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements under MI 61-101, relying on exemptions found in sections 5.5(a), 5.5(b), 5.5(c), 5.7(a) and 5.7(b). Mr. Green is an existing control person of the Company and no new control persons will be created as a result of the Offering. All Shares issued in connection with the Offering will be subject to a statutory hold period of four-months and one day, as well as to any other restrictions imposed by applicable securities regulatory authorities. Completion of the Offering is subject to a number of conditions, including without limitation, receipt of TSX Venture Exchange approval. Proceeds of the Offering will be used to fund the ongoing exploration program at the Company's Akorade project in Ghana, for working capital and for future acquisitions. On behalf of the Board of Akwaaba Mining Ltd.: "Iyad Jarbou" Chief Financial Officer Tel: 604.362.7685 Email: iyad@akwaaba-mining.com FORWARD-LOOKING AND OTHER CAUTIONARY INFORMATION Except for statements of historical fact, this news release contains certain 'forward-looking information' and 'forward-looking statements' within the meaning of applicable securities laws. This release may contain statements that are forward looking statements and are subject to various risks and uncertainties concerning the specific factors disclosed under the heading "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in the Company's periodic filings with Canadian securities regulators. Such information contained herein represents management's best judgment as of the date hereof based on information currently available. As a result, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this release. The Company does not assume the obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required by law. For more information on the Company, investors should review the Company's filings that are available at www.sedar.com. 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 Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/197317 Oslo, 9 February 2024: The Board of Directors of Yara International ASA has decided to propose to the Annual General Meeting an ordinary dividend for 2023 of NOK 5 per share. The following are the key dates if the dividend is approved by the Annual General Meeting: Dividend amount: 5.00 per share Declared currency: NOK Last date including right: 28 May 2024 Ex-dividend date: 29 May 2024 Record date for payment: 30 May 2024 Payment date: 6 June 2024 ADR payment date: 13 June 2024 Date of approval: 28 May 2024 Contact Maria Gabrielsen, Investor Relations Mobile: +47 920 900 93 E-mail: maria.gabrielsen@yara.com 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 17,000 employees and operations in over 60 countries, with a proven track record of strong returns. In 2023, Yara reported revenues of USD 15.5 billion. www.yara.com This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act VANCOUVER, Feb. 9, 2024 - Libero Copper & Gold Corp. (TSXV: LBC) (OTCQB: LBCMF) ("Libero Copper" or the "Company") announces that, further to its news release dated January 19, 2024, the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange") has approved the consolidation of its issued and outstanding common shares (the "Common Shares") on the basis of one (1) new post-consolidation Common Share for every ten (10) pre-consolidation Common Shares (the "Consolidation"). The Consolidation will become effective at the opening of the market on February 13, 2024. The Company's name and trading symbol will remain unchanged following the Consolidation. The new CUSIP number will be 53014U700 and the new ISIN number will be CA53014U7006 for the post-Consolidation Common Shares. The Company currently has 174,777,174 Common Shares issued and outstanding. Assuming no other changes in the number of Common Shares outstanding, after giving effect to the Consolidation the Company would have approximately 17,477,717 Common Shares outstanding. There is no maximum number of authorized Common Shares. Any fractional interest in Common Shares resulting from the Consolidation will be rounded down to the nearest whole Common Share and no cash consideration will be paid in respect of fractional shares. Registered shareholders will receive a letter of transmittal from the Company's transfer agent, Olympia Trust Company, with information on how to replace their old share certificates / DRS statements with the new share certificates / DRS statements. Brokerage firms will handle the replacement of share certificates and DRS statements on behalf of their shareholder's accounts. The exercise price and number of Common Shares issuable upon the exercise of Libero Copper's outstanding stock options and warrants will be proportionately adjusted to reflect the Consolidation in accordance with the terms of such securities. Related Party Loan and Bonus Warrants Further to the Company's news release dated January 22, 2024, the Exchange has conditionally approved the issuance of 750,000 non-transferable warrants (the "Bonus Warrants") to Slater Capital Corporation (the "Lender"), on a post-Consolidation basis in connection with a loan agreement between the Company and the Lender dated January 1, 2024 (the "Loan Agreement"). Pursuant to the terms of the Loan Agreement, the Lender has granted an unsecured loan of $300,000 (the "Loan") to the Company. The term of the Loan expires on December 31, 2024. The Loan is non-interest bearing and repayable at any time by the Company without penalty. The Bonus Warrants are being issued as consideration for the Loan. There are no additional fees, financial covenants or security associated with the Loan. Each Bonus Warrant will entitle the Lender to purchase one additional Common Share at an exercise price of $0.20 per share for a period of 12 months from the date of issuance. It is expected that the Bonus Warrants will be issued on or about February 13, 2024, after the Consolidation becomes effective. The Loan constitutes a "related party transaction" as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101") as the Lender is wholly-owned by Mr. Ian Slater, Chairman of Libero Copper, and a related party of the Company within the meaning of MI 61-101. The Company has relied on exemptions contained in section 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 from the valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements in MI 61-101 in respect of the Loan since neither the fair market value of the Loan, nor the fair market value of the consideration for the Loan, exceeds 25% of the Company's market capitalization. About Libero Copper Libero Copper is a mineral exploration company which is focussed on unlocking the value of the Mocoa copper-molybdenum porphyry deposit located in Putumayo, Colombia. Mocoa is being advanced by a highly disciplined and seasoned professional team with successful track records of discovery, resource development, and permitting in Colombia. Libero Copper prioritizes building strong relationships with the communities in which we operate and is dedicated to creating long-term value for our shareholders through responsible exploration to fuel the green energy future. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release includes forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements within, other than statements of historical fact, are to be considered forward looking. Although Libero Copper believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, receipt of final Exchange approval, completion of the Consolidation, exploitation and exploration successes, continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions and regulatory and administrative approvals, processes and filing requirements. There can be no assurances that such statements will prove accurate and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. The forward-looking information is stated as of the date of this news release and Libero Copper assumes no obligation to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by applicable law. SOURCE Libero Copper & Gold Corp.. KELOWNA, Feb. 9, 2024 - Cantex Mine Development Corp. (TSXV: CD) (OTCQB: CTXDF) (the "Company") is pleased to provide an update on its 100-percent-owned 14,077 hectare North Rackla claim block in the Yukon. Dr. Charles Fipke reports Main Zone Germanium Results 455 germanium results have been received for drill core from 61 intercepts drilled from 31 pads spanning the entire 2.35 kilometer drill confirmed strike length of the Main Zone silver-lead-zinc-germanium mineralization at North Rackla. These results are presented in Table 1. Table 1. Germanium results from the Main Zone Pad Hole Depth (m) Germanium (grams/tonne) Number of analyses MZ03 YKDD19-055 347.40 161 5 MZ04 YKDD19-067 195.40 1595 8 MZ06 YKDD18-016 108.02 595 5 MZ05X YKDD19-125 283.48 182 5 MZ05X YKDD19-127 372.50 952 5 MZ05X YKDD19-139 417.70 438 8 MZ07 YKDD19-025 116.80 307 5 MZ07 YKDD19-027 136.25 1095 8 MZ07X YKDD20-173 341.65 1024 8 MZ09 YKDD19-032 127.45 475 8 MZ09 YKDD19-037 143.30 525 8 MZ10 YKDD19-033 181.35 702 4 MZ16 YKDD19-097 110.55 2082 8 MZ17B YKDD19-069 15.35 1287 8 MZ26 YKDD19-058 210.40 284 8 MZ27 YKDD19-083 129.75 1264 8 MZ27 YKDD19-087 165.25 574 8 MZ29 YKDD19-150 189.00 76 7 MZ31 YKDD19-148 111.35 222 4 MZ31 YKDD19-154 299.00 1365 8 MZ31 YKDD21-211 267.35 285 5 MZ32 YKDD19-107 411.80 638 8 MZ32 YKDD19-112 249.75 612 8 MZ32 YKDD19-117 309.50 134 5 MZ32 YKDD21-208 232.80 549 8 MZ33 YKDD19-149 238.25 981 8 MZ33 YKDD20-182 179.15 2 8 MZ33 YKDD23-285 430.65 467 8 MZ33 YKDD23-285 536.95 637 8 MZ34 YKDD19-153 300.45 665 8 MZ34 YKDD19-156 278.10 1244 8 MZ34 YKDD20-157 348.00 421 8 MZ35 YKDD20-166 286.90 399 8 MZ35 YKDD20-168 411.80 568 8 MZ35 YKDD20-170 598.85 1295 8 MZ37B YKDD19-141 156.45 777 8 MZ39B YKDD19-121 35.45 457 8 MZ42 YKDD19-143B 195.18 119 8 MZ43 YKDD19-138 172.35 462 8 MZ-43B YKDD19-142 250.40 156 8 MZ51A YKDD21-197 235.75 715 8 MZ51A YKDD21-203 367.00 224 8 MZ52 YKDD22-248 68.00 610 8 MZ52 YKDD22-252 64.20 1326 8 MZ52A YKDD22-243 186.70 656 8 MZ53A YKDD22-250 165.25 119 5 MZ53A YKDD22-253 174.55 1370 8 MZ53A YKDD22-255 202.00 633 8 MZ53A YKDD22-257 222.20 1031 8 MZ53A YKDD22-258 230.60 720 8 MZ53A YKDD22-260 174.75 857 8 MZ54 YKDD23-279 88.75 398 8 MZ54 YKDD23-281 86.00 300 8 MZ54 YKDD23-282 112.45 404 8 MZ54A YKDD22-254 151.55 529 8 MZ55 YKDD22-263 70.00 482 8 MZ55 YKDD22-265 91.00 1251 8 MZ55 YKDD22-266 74.80 378 8 MZ55A YKDD22-267 159.20 382 8 MZ55A YKDD22-269 185.40 1512 8 MZ55A YKDD22-271 198.20 496 8 The average of these 61 intercepts is 663 grams per tonne germanium in sphalerite. When combined with the previously analyzed 36 intercepts the average is 654 grams per tonne germanium. The distribution of the new germanium results within the Massive Sulphide project is shown in Map 1. GZ Zone Germanium Results At the GZ Zone 57 analyses were received from 9 intercepts which averaged 427 grams per tonne germanium in sphalerite. When combined with the previously received results from five intercepts the average germanium content is 521 grams per tonne. These results are presented in Table 2 below. Table 2. Germanium results from the GZ Zone Pad Hole Depth (m) Germanium (grams/tonne) Number of analyses GZ01D YKDD22-222 15.55 613 8 GZ02 YKDD20-176 86.45 426 8 GZ02B YKDD20-179 66.35 1037 8 GZ02D YKDD21-210 25.50 104 5 GZ02E YKDD21-213 40.15 269 5 GZ02.5C YKDD22-223 77.15 130 8 GZ02.5C YKDD22-224 43.75 335 5 GZ02.5C YKDD22-226 55.25 220 5 GZ02.5C YKDD22-228 62.75 709 5 Germanium Market Germanium continues to be a metal of prime importance for the west. China, which currently supplies 83% of the world's germanium, is now restricting exports to the United States and western markets. Germanium is a valuable metal, currently selling for US$1.32 per gram (February 7, 2024; Trading Economics; https://tradingeconomics.com/commodity/germanium). There are few western sources of germanium, the most significant being ore from Teck's Red Dog Mine in Alaska which is processed at the Trail smelter in British Columbia. It is apparent that western nations will need to find additional sources of germanium. Summary Cantex's directors are pleased that the Massive Sulphide project contains very high germanium values along the 2,350 metres of strike length tested to date. The average germanium content of sphalerite from the Main Zone is 654 grams per tonne while the average germanium content of the GZ Zone is 521 grams per tonne. The project shows potential to be a much-needed western source of the Critical Metal germanium. Sample Preparation The drill holes reported in this press release were drilled using HQ (63.5mm) diamond drill bits. The core was logged, marked up for sampling and then divided into equal halves using a diamond saw on site. One half of the core was left in the original core box. The other half was sampled and placed into sealed bags. Core samples averaged over 3kg in weight. For germanium analyses a piece of split core approximately 15cm in length containing sphalerite was selected and submitted to CF Mineral Research Ltd. From the selected location a piece of a thin slice of core was mounted in epoxy, polished, carbon coated and mapped using a scanning electron microscope to select sphalerites for analysis. The samples were then sent to UBC Okanagan for germanium analysis using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (LA-ICPMS). A 100 micron spot size was used and NIST610 and 612 reference materials were used as standards. The technical information and results reported here have been reviewed by Mr. Chad Ulansky P.Geol., a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101, who is responsible for the technical content of this release. Signed, Charles Fipke Dr. Charles Fipke, CM Chairman 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. Information set forth in this news release includes forward-looking statements under applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements are statements that relate to future, not past, events. In this context, forward-looking statements often address expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "expect", and "intend", statements that an action or event "may", "might", "could", "should", or "will" be taken or occur, or other similar expressions. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward-looking statements. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others, risks identified in the management discussion and analysis section of the Company's interim and most recent annual financial statements or other reports and filings with Canadian securities regulators. Forward looking statements are made based on management's beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date that statements are made and the respective companies undertake no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as required by applicable securities laws. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. SOURCE Cantex Mine Development Corp. Grants Options and RSU's Vancouver, February 9, 2024 - Avanti Gold Corp. (CSE: AGC) (FSE: X370) (the "Company") is pleased to announce that, effective February 15, 2024, Martino De Ciccio has been appointed as a senior advisor to the Company. Martino De Ciccio commented: "I am pleased to join the advisory Board of Avanti Gold, alongside mining veterans such as Sir Samuel Jonah, Robert Cross, and Paul Matysek, given our shared belief that the Democratic Republic of the Congo hosts significant potential for the discovery of world-class mineral properties." About Martino De Ciccio Martino De Ciccio has over 15 years of experience in mining industry with a strong value creation track record and significant knowledge across strategy, capital markets, corporate finance, and ESG, coupled with a profound understanding of the African mining landscape. Martino De Ciccio currently serves as Deputy CFO and Head of Investor Relations at Endeavour Mining (TSX: EDV), a position he assumed in January 2023, from which he will be stepping down from in mid-February to pursue other opportunities. He joined Endeavour Mining in 2015 as Vice President, Strategy and Investor relations and played a pivotal role in Endeavour's transformation from a $250 million market cap to a FTSE100 company and one of the largest gold producers in the world, garnering over 25 investor relations achievement nominations, including repeatedly winning best across all sectors. Prior to joining Endeavour, Martino played a key role in growing La Mancha Resources from a $20 million market cap which culminated into a $500 million take-private offer. As Strategy and Business Development Manager, he then helped lead the private company's transformation from an emerging gold producer into one of the largest gold investment funds with cornerstone holdings in Evolution Mining and Endeavour, which was recognized with an Emerging Leader Award. Martino currently serves on the Board of Northisle Copper and Gold (TSXV: NCX) and Bluestone Resources (TSXV: BSR). Martino earned a B.Com in Finance from McGill University and is a CFA charterholder. Avanti Gold Corp. further announces that it has granted a total of 1,735,000 stock options ("Options") to purchase common shares of the Company to certain consultants pursuant to the Company's Stock Option Plan. Such Options are exercisable into common shares of the Company at an exercise price of $0.22 per common share for a period of five years from the date of grant. The Options vest 1/4 immediately and 1/4 bi-annually thereafter. All of the Options expire on February 8, 2029. In addition, the Company has issued a total of 2,600,000 restricted share units ("RSUs") to certain consultants of the Company in accordance with the Company's Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan. Once vested, each RSU represents the right to receive one common share of the Company or the equivalent cash value thereof at the Company's discretion. About Avanti Gold Corp. Avanti Gold Corp. is a mineral exploration company working on a Tier-1 gold opportunity in the Democratic Republic of the Congo ("DRC"), located in the Fizi territory of South Kivu province in the DRC. The Misisi Gold Project (or the "Project") has a contained Inferred Mineral Resource of 3 million ounces of gold as reported in the Company's National Instrument 43-101 technical report on the Misisi Gold Project (the "Technical Report"). The Project is located 250 kilometres south of Bukavu, the provincial capital of the South Kivu Province, in the DRC. The Project is comprised of three contiguous 30-year mining leases, valid until 2045, covering 133 square kilometres of prospective exploration ground along the 55-kilometre-long Kibara Gold Belt. The Kibara Belt is a well-known metallogenic province and hosts several other deposits, including the Twangiza (5.1 Moz oz Au, source: S&P Global) and Namoya (1.9 Moz, source: S&P Global) gold mines. The Project is host to the Akyanga deposit, which is the subject to an Inferred Resource of 40.8 million tonnes at an average grade of 2.37 grams per tonne of gold containing 3.11 million ounces. Qualified Person Ephraim Masibhera, a "Qualified Person" as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"), has reviewed the scientific and technical information that forms the basis for this news release and has approved the disclosure herein. Historical information contained in this news release cannot be relied upon as the Company's Qualified Person, as defined under NI 43-101 has not prepared nor verified the historical information. This news release also includes references with respect to the Twangiza (5.1 Moz oz Au, source: S&P Global) and Namoya (1.9 Moz, source: S&P Global) gold mines, which are located near the Misisi Gold Project. The Company advises that, notwithstanding their proximity of location, discoveries of minerals on such properties, any promising results thereof are not necessarily indicative of the mineralization of, or located on the Misisi Gold Project, or the Company's ability to commercially exploit the minerals claims which comprise the property or to locate any commercially exploitable deposits therefrom. On behalf of the Board of Directors Colin Porter Chief Executive Officer Email: info@avantigoldcorp.com Office: +1 (604) 908-1679 Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/197410 US Congressman Hill: We won't allow Ukraine to be destroyed by Russian bear who eats relentlessly even when he isn't hungry Members of the U.S. House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence French Hill, Jason Crow and Abigail Spanberger, who arrived in Kyiv, assured that the United States remains committed to supporting the Ukrainians, and this message will be conveyed again to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. At a briefing in Kyiv on Friday evening, Hill said they know the sense of partnership that is needed when Ukraine is fighting for freedom. He said all of them are committed to this on a bipartisan basis. Hill said he will once again deliver this message to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that he will see the support of the United States with the allies and partners across Europe and around the world who stand for freedom here and draw the line that they will not allow this sovereign nation to be destroyed by the Russians a bear that mercilessly eats fruit even when it is not hungry. He also said polls in the United States indicate the American people do not want Putin to win in Ukraine. Hill said the people know that this is not only bad for Europe, bad for the people of Ukraine, bad for the sovereignty of Ukraine, but also bad for the world. In turn, Crow, a member of the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, said the purpose of the delegation's visit is to send a very strong and very simple signal: the American people support Ukraine. He said the United States supports Ukraine not only because they understand that defending freedom and democracy around the world is an American value, but the United States supports Ukraine because it is also in its interest. With less than 5% of the U.S. annual defense budget, they have helped Ukraine secure a stable and prosperous Europe. He said they helped Ukraine destroy more than half of the Russian army and helped Ukraine protect our NATO allies. Crow also said the United States helped Ukraine ensure stable food prices, as well as stable food supplies around the world. He said all of these things are in the best interest of the American people, and the American people see that. Crow said they look forward to continuing to meet with President Zelenskyy and other Ukrainian government officials to discuss the path forward and what needs to be done to ensure our strong partnership and their lasting alliance. Member of the U.S. House of Representatives Spanberger also said the purpose of their trip was to convey to Ukrainian partners the commitment of the American people and Congress to further support Ukraine in its struggle for freedom. F1 commentator can imagine Verstappen in red overalls Max Verstappen may well end his own Formula 1 career in red just like his 2021 title nemesis and fellow multiple world champion Lewis Hamilton. Max Verstappen, United States GP 2023 Red Bull That is the view of Gaetan Vigneron, the long-time F1 commentator for the Belgian broadcaster RTBF. He said he's not overly shocked by the news of 39-year-old Hamilton's sensational 2025 move from Mercedes to Ferrari - having seen many greats do a similar thing over the years. It's one of the great transfers in the history of F1, but there have been others, said Vigneron. "Ferrari is an attractive brand that makes everyone dream. (Ayrton) Senna, Hamilton's idol, wanted to end his career at Ferrari. (Michael) Schumacher did it and he was champion. (Fernando) Alonso and (Sebastian) Vettel tried and failed. Now, if Hamilton can win his eighth world title with the reds, he might be the greatest of all time. The Italian brand is so attractive that I wouldn't even be surprised if one day we are told that Max Verstappen is ending his career at Ferrari, he added. Triple world champion Verstappen will be 31 years old when his current Red Bull contract expires at the end of 2028. (GMM) No plans for team name change, says Williams boss Amid the hectic flurry of Formula 1 activity on the team management, driver lineup and team name change fronts at present, Williams insists it has no intention of changing its iconic name. Logan Sargeant, United States GP 2023 Williams Sauber has become Stake or Kick, Alpha Tauri is now Visa Cash App RB - but boss James Vowles says Williams will continue to be called Williams despite the death of its co-founder and the 2020 sale to Dorilton Capital. I think it's one of the biggest brands - certainly in motorsport and certainly in the UK, Vowles is quoted as saying by the French magazine Auto Hebdo. I have no desire to change it, any more than Dorilton does, because it means a lot. Frank Williams and his legacy remains with us. Vowles revealed that a close inspection of the 2024 Williams livery even includes the original Frank Williams arrow logo. I wanted to reflect that I'm not here to replace him but to continue Williams' legacy, he insisted. As for the so-far unrevealed livery for Max Verstappen's title-defending Red Bull car this year, the triple world champion let the cat out of the bag while chatting with fellow racers on the online sim racing platform Twitch. It's going to look exactly the same, said the Dutchman. In other news, the traditional and much-loved grand prix venues at Silverstone and Suzuka have renewed their deals with Formula 1 through 2034 and 2029 respectively. And organisers of the Dutch GP have been awarded F1's promoter of the year for 2023, despite only having a race contract for the 2024 and 2025 editions. The fact that we are seen as the best promoter among all these world cities is of course a wonderful reward, Zandvoort circuit boss Robert van Overdijk is quoted by Algemeen Dagblad newspaper. (GMM) Umerov introduces AFU new commander-in-chief at meeting with inspector general of Bundeswehr in Kyiv Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov introduced new Commander-in-Chief, Colonel General Oleksandr Syrsky, at a meeting with Bundeswehr Inspector General Carsten Breuer in Kyiv, the department's press service said. According to a message published in the Telegram channel of the Ministry of Defense, during the meeting Syrsky informed his German colleague about the situation on the front line, and also thanked Germany for its contribution to strengthening the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The parties also discussed the needs of the Ukrainian army for weapons, ammunition and air defense systems. "We are aimed at fruitful cooperation, effective communication and exchange of experience in real time," the press service said, citing Umerov. While continuing to struggle with pilot shortages and industry challenges, the Southwest Wyoming Regional Airport is looking to the future and hopeful in finding ways forward to continue improving service. Airport Director Devon Brubaker recently gave updates on the airport's current situation and future plans to Sweetwater County residents during an Airport Master Plan Community Meeting and to the county during Tuesday's Board of County Commissioners meeting. The airport has had "another year of stifled recovery" according to Brubaker. He explained that the SWRA, like many other airports... CASPER, WY A bipartisan bill honoring the life and legacy of former Shoshoni Postmaster Dessie A. Bebout passed the U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs last week. The bipartisan legislation, introduced by U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), and Tom Carper (D-Del.), honors Dessie Bebout by naming the local post office in Shoshoni, Wyoming after her. Bebout, a WWII veteran, passed away last year at the age of 102. Bebout's honored career with the U.S. Postal Service began in 1962. She became Postmaster for Shoshoni, Wyoming and served her state for 13 years with distinction. "Dessie's life and legacy truly embody what it means to live the Wyoming way of life. Dessie was a trailblazer and a patriot who made incredible contributions to communities across Wyoming," said Senator Barrasso. "We are so grateful for her years of service to our nation in World War II and as Shoshoni Postmaster in Wyoming. Naming the Shoshoni Post Office after her will ensure her legacy carries on for future generations. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to swiftly pass this bill to permanently honor Dessie Bebout in her community for years to come." "Dessie Bebout was a trailblazer for women across Wyoming, and I can think of no better name for the Shoshoni Post Office to bear," said Senator Lummis. "From her service in WWII to serving as the Shoshoni Postmaster, it is our responsibility to ensure her legacy lives on. The passage of this bill out of committee brings us one step closer to ensuring future generations of men and women remember her great service to our nation, and I am looking forward to getting this bill across the finish line." "Dessie dedicated her life to service as one of the first enlisted women in the military after the attack on Pearl Harbor," said Senator Carper. "As a fellow Navy veteran, I want to honor the sacrifice she made for our country, and I'm proud to work with Senator Barrasso to pass this bill out of committee in her memory. I look forward to taking a final vote on the Senate floor so that Dessie's memory lives on in her community." After graduating from Fremont County Vocational High School in Lander, Bebout worked for the Fremont County Extension Service and at F.E. Warren Air Force Base. Following the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, Bebout enlisted in the U.S. Navy as part of the "Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service" or WAVES program. In addition to her career in the U.S. Postal Service, Bebout served as a Fremont County Election Judge, in the Shoshoni Chamber of Commerce, Shoshoni PTA, Wyoming Women's Commission, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Women's Auxiliary and on the Riverton Hospital Board among many other organizations. As a result of her military and civic service, she was awarded the Wyoming Women of Distinction award from the Wyoming Council for Women's Issues. She also received the Medal of Honor from the Daughters of the American Revolution. Genetic genealogy IDs killer nearly 50 years after homicide CASPER The homicide of Casper native Teree Becker has been solved after more than 48 years, the Westminster Colorado Police Department announced Wednesday. Years of effort and genetic genealogy are credited for identifying Thomas Elliott as Beckers killer. Becker grew up in Casper with her parents, a brother and a sister. She was a graduate of Kelly Walsh High School and worked for a newspaper for a time. She moved to Denver shortly after graduating. Her family said that she often lived life on the edge. They said she never met a stranger and would hold a conversation with any... Billy Joe Larsen, 62, of San Antonio, TX died on January 15, 2024. Billy fought a valiant battle against heart and lung disease for many years. He was born in Rapid City, SD and lived many places including Laramie, WY; Green River, WY; Elko, NV; Lake Havasu, AZ; and San Antonio, TX. Billy graduated from Green River high school in 1979. Billy will be laid to rest at the Larsen family cemetery in Farmingdale, South Dakota on February 10, 2024 at 10:30. A luncheon will be held at Comfort Suites Conference Center 1333 North Elk Vale Road at 12:30. Please dress casual. John Lewis Elliott, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on January 19 at the age of 74. Known for his infectious sense of humor, John's playful spirit left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who had the pleasure of knowing him. Born to Barbara May Hasten Elliott and Hollie Elliott on October 14, 1949, in Mineola, Texas, John touched the lives of many with his warmth, kindness, and unwavering love. He leaves behind a legacy of cherished memories and a profound impact on those who were fortunate enough to share a laugh with him. John proudly served in the Unite... Ronald Eugene Barlow, 85, a longtime resident of Green River, passed away on Sunday January 21, 2024 surrounded by his family at Intermountain Medical Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. Ron was born May 21, 1938 to Kelley (Curly) Blanchard Barlow and Dorothy Lillian (Tiny) Wilhite in Humboldt, Kansas. Ron graduated from Humboldt High School class of 1956. Upon graduation, Ron hopped a train and headed to Wyoming where he started his career in the pipeline industry. Along with starting his career, he met the love of his life, Carla Josephine Bertagnolli. They were married October 29, 1960 in Kemmerer. He retired from Williams Field Services after 40 years of service. His career in the pipeline field began in Big Piney with Pacific Northwest Pipeline Corporation, El Paso Natural Gas, Northwest Pipeline and finally ending with Williams. Through many changes within the company, Ron also advanced his career. Climbing from ditch digger to Wyoming Area Manager. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Green River. In his younger years, Ron enjoyed fishing and camping. He found a love for photography where he enjoyed taking pictures of birds and flowers along with various wildlife, that he at times got to close to. He took great pride in his yard, traveling with Carla, going to Utah Jazz games and watching his old western movies. One of his favorite things to do was to ride his bike 14 miles a day all over town at the age of 82, even though we didn't want him to. After retiring, Ron spent countless hours with his grandchildren, from standing on the sidelines taking pictures of games to traveling all over to support them. In the most recent times, he enjoyed rides with Tyler down by the river. Ron is survived by one daughter, Debbie Barlow of Green River; two sons, Wayne (Marsha) Barlow of Big Piney and Chris (Andrea) Barlow of Salt Lake City, Utah; one daughter-in-law, Doretta Barlow of Rangely, Colorado; ten grandchildren, Kailey Barlow and companion Colter Perry, Logan (Brad) Heine, Tyler Barlow, Garrett Barlow, Brady Barlow, Alec Barlow and companion Anisha Middleton, Jennifer (John) Cottrill, Cole (Hannah) Barlow, Ryan Barlow, and Zoe Barlow; seven great-grandchildren; three sisters, Billie Wertz, Linda Ames, and Annette West; one brother, Larry Barlow; and several cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Carla Barlow, son Mark Barlow and granddaughter Chelce Barlow. Cremation will take place. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Condolences may be left at http://www.vasefuneralhomes.com. Theres never been enough doctors in rural Wyoming, where I live, but a shortage of obstetricians is now increasing the risks for pregnant women across the stateand the nation. In the last decade in Wyoming, three hospitals have closed their maternity ward. That includes Rawlins, where pregnant moms now have to risk travel on Interstate 80notorious for weather-related closuresto deliver their babies in Laramie, 100 miles away. But Wyoming isnt the only state to face inadequate maternal care: Less than half of the rural hospitals in America even offer labor and delivery servi... Abbas Ganbay In January 2024, the volume of transportation of Kazakh oil from the port of Aktau for export purposes amounted to 287K tons, Azernews reports citing Kazakhstani media. This is 76 thousand tons more compared to the same period last year. "In particular, the volume of oil transportation in the direction of the port of Baku from the port of Aktau increased by 60K tons and amounted to 116K tons. In the direction of the port of Makhachkala from the port of Aktau shipped 171K tons of Kazakh oil, which is 17K tons more compared to the same indicator for January 2023," the report says. In 2022, the President of Kazakhstan Kasym-Jomart Tokayev instructed to increase the volume of oil transportation along the Trans-Caspian corridor. JSC NC KazMunayGas and the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) signed an agreement providing for the transportation of 1.5 mln tons of oil per year from the Tengiz field in the direction of the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline. In addition, for January 2024 the company delivered to Germany 100 thousand tons of oil from Kazakhstan through the system of main oil pipelines of PJSC Transneft. Earlier it was reported that KazTransOil 2024 plans to transit 550K tons of oil from Russia to Uzbekistan through the territory of Kazakhstan, while last year 154.3K tons were delivered. On Friday, February 16, at 11.00, the press center of the Interfax-Ukraine News Agency will host a press conference on the subject: "New Approaches to Personnel Training for Business, Training Cases, Education Challenges in Wartime." Participants: Chairman of the Commission on the Reorganization of the National Aviation University (NAU), Acting Rector of the NAU Volodymyr Shulha; Acting Dean of the NAU Law Faculty Iryna Sopilko; legal advisor of the Strategy Department of the Supreme Audit Office of Poland, expert of EU programs on public administration in Ukraine Piotr Kulpa; President of the National Expert Construction Alliance of Ukraine, co-owner of the Proexp expert organization in the field of construction Viktor Leschynsky; lawyer, representative of Fire Point LLC Oleksandra Paramonova; consultant at Global Solutions Group LLC Halyna Erko. Moderator TV presenter, blogger, honored journalist of Ukraine Serhiy Doyko (8/5a Reitarska Street). The event will be streamed on the Interfax-Ukraine YouTube channel. Admission requires registration on the spot with press ID cards. Additional information by phone: (096) 626 3564. Marcia Driggs takes over as GHSC director The loss of Ruth Lauritzen is keenly felt at Golden Hour Senior Center, but Marcia Driggs is doing her best to not only keep the center moving forward but to honor Lauritzen's legacy and impact. Driggs was recently named the executive director of Golden Hour following the passing of Lauritzen. Lauritzen had worked at the senior center for almost two years, having started as executive director in March 2022. She previously worked at the Sweetwater County Historical Museum for 30 years and worked for the school district. When Lauritzen started as the senior center director, she said she was... The Guam Election Commission is seeking to change several local election laws to help save time and money and codify already existing practices into law. Seven different election-related bills had a public hearing on Friday at the Guam Congress Building. The bills were based on recommendations from the GEC. The bills are: Bill 214-37 relative to tabulated and published write-in votes Bill 215-37 relatives to the election and qualification processes for the offices of public auditor and attorney general Bill 216-37 relative to enforcement of electioneering at polling places Bill 217-37 relative to provisional ballots Bill 218-37 relative to extending the term of appointment of a registration clerk and the times of registration Bill 219-37 relative to changing a precinct to a district and defining the name of a candidate or nominee Bill 233-37 relative to changing preliminary reports to quarterly reports and eliminating final and supplementary reports Public Auditor Benjamin J. Cruz said he couldnt testify for or against Bill 215 since he intends to run for re-election. Being that I am a potential candidate and the incumbent it is improper for me to say I support or oppose the bill as it might give the impression that whatever way it comes out would directly benefit my candidacy, he said. He said the bill does not directly impact his office and declined to offer an opinion on the bill. The bill would take the public auditor and attorney general out of the primary election which would save the GEC time and money, GEC Program Coordinator Tom San Agustin told lawmakers Friday. Currently a separate ballot needs to be printed for the attorney general and public auditor races and they are counted separately from the partisan ballot, he said. The bill would have the race only during the general election and the candidate with the highest number of votes would be declared the winner, the bills author Sen. Roy Quinata said. The current law requires a primary for the public auditor and attorney general with the top two vote-getters able to move on to the general election. San Agustin said taking the public auditor and attorney general out of the primary election could also result in quicker election results and reduce labor costs needed for tabulation. He estimated it costs over $12,000 just to procure and print the ballots for the public auditor and attorney general election. The tabulation of the ballot during the primary election also means they can go late into the evening because theyre counting two ballots, he added. Bill 214-37 would also help save the GEC time and money because it wouldnt require a manual review of write-in votes, San Agustin said. The only time write-in votes will need to have a manual review is if they get enough votes to affect the election results, if the bill is enacted into law. Current law requires the GEC to tabulate and publish the write-in names. The bill would only require the total number of write-in voting ovals to be tabulated unless the number could change the results. Some senators voiced concern over the measure as it would take away transparency in election results. Sen. Telo Taitague said every name thats put in as a write-in should be listed and published. I think transparency is really important and I think we should put it down regardless to see what the people of Guam are thinking, regardless if its Donald Duck or Minnie Mouse, the names that they put down there. It just should all be put down, she said. Sen. Chris Barnett said he enjoys being able to see the write-in votes because it shows who voters are trying to put into office. He said he understands that it is a lot of work for the GEC to do this. Bill 218-37 would change the deadline for registering to vote to 21 days prior to the election rather the 10 days in current law. San Agustin said it would give the GEC more time to get an accurate voter registry. Bill 233-37 which would require quarterly reporting of finances would help the GEC better advise candidates, San Agustin said. Currently, the GEC isnt able to review financial reports until after the election cycle, he said. This will enable the GEC to better advise candidates and committees on proper recording requirements and ensure that campaign finances are reviewed in a timely manner, San Agustin said. Sen. Joanne Brown raised concerns that it would be a more laborious process for candidates to file quarterly reports. She said it is a lot of paperwork to file the reports and some candidates may not have any updates within a quarter to give the GEC. Brown also asked that the election bills be put into next months session and not pushed back any further. Brown said dealing with any election bills closer to the election is not something she wants senators to do. People will look at that, you know, theyre going to be wondering if were trying to manipulate the process to our benefit especially those of us who are incumbent, she said. I think we should address it sooner rather than later. Bill 219-37 also drew some concern from senators because they thought nicknames on the ballot could be taken off. San Agustin clarified that it would only impact the name that is placed on the ballot which would require a persons legal name. He said its already commission policy to do this, but the bill would codify it into law. Thats how everyone found out my name is Darrel, Barnett said. A man charged with stealing more than $17,000 worth of electrical wire from Home Depot earlier this month was in court again Monday - this tim Del. Jim Moylan is asking the president to cut Guam residents in on a federal benefits program for the low income, disabled, and elderly that could be extended to citizens of the Freely Associated States. The federal Supplemental Security Income program gives cash benefits to eligible applicants who are over the age of 65, low income, or have a disability that affects their ability to work. Guam and the territories arent eligible for the benefit. However, the proposed renewal of the Compacts of Free Association with the Federated States of Micronesia, the Marshall Islands and Palau would extend the benefit to COFA nationals in the U.S. Migrants living on Guam would not qualify for the benefit, however, as the current agreement only extends COFA citizens whatever federal benefits are provided in the state or territory they live in, Moylans Chief of Staff Bobby Shringi told the Pacific Daily News. The renewal is still awaiting final approval in Congress. Payouts vary year to year, but the latest maximum SSI rates are: $943 a month, equal to $11,321 per year for an individual $1,415 a month, equal to $16,980 per year for a couple Low income is described as less than $1,971 a month for a working individual. Advocates for Guam have argued for years that benefits should be extended to citizens living on the island and other territories. Residents scored a landmark legal victory in 2020, when the District Court of Guam found the exclusion of one disabled Guam resident, Katrina Schaller, from the federal program was discriminatory and unconstitutional. But the ruling was thrown out in a federal appeals court after Schaller, who sued the U.S. Social Security Administration, died in 2021. That same year, the Biden Administration laid out a framework to extend SSI to all the territories, Shringi told the PDN Friday, but it so far has never come through on the promise. With the White House now seeking SSI for COFA citizens, there was a precedent that could help get the territories included, he said. The White House talks about solidarity for the territories, well, then the same White House better put it on the table. Lets give them equality, Shringi said. Current attempts to extend the SSI benefit to COFA nationals come as the Biden Adminstration shifts away from the policy of providing so-called Compact-impact money to communities hosting COFA migrants like Guam. Guam typically gets between $14 million and $17 million a year in Compact-impact money, but the Biden Administration is instead moving to give more federal benefits directly to COFA nationals. Del. Moylan has opposed the removal of funding, and his bill to restore the funds to Guam was heard in January. Funding has now been identified for the reimbursement, Moylans team just has to get the OK to tap into, Shringi said Friday. Extending SSI benefits to eligible COFA nationals is estimated to cost an additional $84 million between 2024 and 2033. Moylan, along with CNMI Del. Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan and representatives for Puerto Rico, American Samoa, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, urged President Joe Biden to include the territories in SSI benefits in a Feb. 5 letter. During COFA negotiations in 2023, we raised our concerns with the inequity of expanding SSI benefits to COFA nationals who relocate to one of the states, the same benefit that is denied to citizens living in the territories. In the end, we accepted that these agreements were too critical to hold up. This inequity must now be addressed. Continued denial of SSI to territory residents, who have the highest rates of military benefits in the country, created unnecessary divides Moylan and others stated, and the inequity must be repaired. Guam Community College President Mary Okada remained as the chairperson of the Guam Education Board, while Angel Sablan, acting director of the Department of Parks and Recreation, was elected as the vice chairperson, replacing Maria Gutierrez, during the board members meeting held Jan. 29. Okada was also elected as education board chair last year. She assumed office in January 2021 and served as the vice chair until 2022. In a statement, Okada expressed her gratitude and excitement to work with the board members and leaders of the Guam Department of Education to ensure quality education. We have a clear vision and direction for our education system through the framework provided in the GDOE 5-year Strategic Plan I Chalanta Mona (Our Path Forward), adopted in 2022, said Okada. Meanwhile, this is Sablans first time to lead at the education board after assuming office last year. He is the former executive director of the Mayors Council of Guam for 15 years. I appreciate the cooperation and leadership of the GDOE team, and I believe that we can provide high-quality education to our island community, Sablan stated. Education Superintendent Kenneth Swanson expressed confidence to the boards leadership to foster a safe and conducive environment for the students. The other board members are Peter Alexis Ada, Felicitas Angel, Christine Baleto, Karlyn Borja, Lourdes Benavente, Gutierrez, and Ron McNinch. The education board is responsible for all policies that govern the GDOE. Kyiv office real estate market may expand by one third in five years UTG KYIV. Feb 9 (Interfax-Ukraine) In the next five years, the Kyiv office real estate market may expand by a third; developers are announcing plans to commission about 800,000 square meters in the business centers, the UTG company reported. "Objects that were at a high stage of readiness are being gradually put into operation by developers. In 2022-2023, almost 140,000 square meters were put into operation, which increased the capital's high-quality office real estate market to 2.55 million square meeters, by 5% compared to the pre-war period," head of the UTG legal consulting department Kostiantyn Oliynyk said at a press conference at Interfax-Ukraine on Thursday. In particular, in 2022, the Magnett business center (139 V. Vasylkivska Street, GLA 43,000 square meters), the Aria business center (15a Druzhby Narodiv Blvd., 3,000 square meters), the Hlybochytsky shopping center (44 Hlybochytska Street, 6,000 square meters), TAS Podol (23 Olenivska Street, 18,000 square meters), the business center on 151 Bazhana Avenue (13,000 square meters,) the Lake Plaza shopping center (12 M. Malynovskoho Street, 5,000 square meters), and Pixel Hub (1 Obolon Ave., 2,200 square meters) were commissioned. In 2023, the Twelve business center (12 Novokostiantynivska Street, 13,300 square meters), the GRADIENT.Business Center (4-6 Korolenkivska Street, 20,000 square meters), the Business Center on 96 V. Lobanovskoho Street (2,000 square meters) were commissioned, and the business center Nivki City (67 Peremohy Ave., GLA 8,600 square meters) was completed. "If you look at the announced development, these are more than thirty projects (with commissioning plans in 2024-2030) with a total area of almost 800,000 square meters. Among them are entire cities that were designed not just for a potentially key IT tenant, and constitute a whole new layer of modern real estate format, combining residential and office and retail functions. One of them is the project of a business center on Protasiv Yar/Yamska Street with an office component of 327,000 square meters," Oliynyk said. In the last year, Florida has witnessed the most significant decline in rental prices nationwide, according to new report from Rent. It reveals average annual rents in the state have dropped by 9.21%. A year ago, the average monthly rent in the Sunshine State was $2,307. But its now $2,095 amounting to decrease of about $212 per month, or just over $2,500 per year. Among Floridas largest cities, year over year, Miamis average monthly rent dropped 7.67% to $2,915 per month. According to RentHops annual Singles Index, Miami emerged as the second least affordable place for single men and women in the United States, trailing only behind New York City. The cost of rent in Jacksonville experienced a 7.62% dip, with a median rent of $1,717 per month. Tampas rent dropped 2.57% to an average of $2,102 in monthly rent, while Orlando, with a median rent of $2,119, only dropped 0.53%. Florida was followed by Idaho and Oregon, which saw the second and third highest yearly declines in rent of 5.76% and 5.08%, respectively. Washington, where asking rents are hovering at $2,219, came in fourth, with a downturn of 4.04% since last year. The current national median monthly price for an apartment is now $1,964, according to Rent. Thats about $90 less than August 2022, when rent peaked at $2,054. Overall, Mississippi had the highest rent increase year over year with a 14.67% upsurge and a median rent of $1,232. However, overall, rents in the South continued to fall for the fourth consecutive month with an average monthly rent of $1,632 far below asking rents in the Northeast, which at an average of $2,439 per month, continue to be the highest in the nation. Haiti - FLASH : Guy Philippe calls on BSPA agents to put themselves into combat mode Following the death of 5 agents from the Protected Areas Surveillance Brigade (BSAP) on Wednesday in Laboule during exchanges of fire with agents from the Departmental Unit for Maintaining Order (UDMO) https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-41621-haiti-flash-3rd-days-of-demonstrations-violence-deaths-and-destruction.html The ex-elected senator and former rebel leader Guy Phillipe, who described the death of these 5 agents as "a hard blow", said on a radio station in the capital "[...] The attack having cost the lives of these agents, aimed to eliminate me physically" specifying that he had witnessed the tragedy since the vehicle he was in was on the scene a few meters from the shooting. Guy Phillipe called on the BSPA agents (who pledged allegiance to him) to put themselves in combat mode and "attack then neutralize the defenders of the Ariel Henry Government..." Concluding his intervention by reiterating his determination to overthrow the de facto Government led by Ariel Henry. SL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - Demonstrations : The humanitarian response hit hard by civil unrest Over the past three days (February 5-7), Port-au-Prince and other major cities have been the scene of unrest and popular violence, causing major disruptions to UN and NGO humanitarian operations. The demonstrations were marked by violence, roadblocks and looting, leading to clashes with the police which left several injured and dead, notably in Port-au-Prince, Ouanaminthe and Mirabelais. Humanitarian operations have been suspended or slowed down, which has had an impact on the assistance planned for the population, particularly displaced people. Access to the sites of displaced people is difficult for humanitarian partners and the distribution of humanitarian aid to the South is compromised by difficulties in accessing the Port. A humanitarian organization was looted in the South department, seriously hampering its operations in the coming days. Impact on health: The Health Cluster reports that the University of Peace Hospital in Port-au-Prince admitted around ten injured people. An emergency plan has been activated at the University Hospital and the Tabarre hospital to deal with any massive influx of injured people. Impact on education: Since mid-January 2024, protests and gang violence have led to the temporary closure of more than 1,000 schools across the country, notably in Port-au-Prince and urban areas in the West, Grand' Anse, the North-East, Nippes and Artibonite. Impact on food security: The unrest affected trade and commerce activities, including the supply of food items. According to a recent study by the World Food Program (WFP), weeks of insecurity have led to a increase in food prices of 23% in the Sud and Nippes departments. Around 90,000 people across the country were affected by this price increase. limiting their ability to access basic products. The continuation of protests and blockades could further deteriorate the food situation of the population. Impact on transport: Road and air transport have been severely disrupted, with the cancellation of humanitarian flights organized by UNHAS and internal commercial flights reducing the travel capacity of humanitarian actors and populations. Roadblocks imposed by protesters and gangs and restrictions on the movement of people, including health workers, have impacted people's access to health services. See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-41621-haiti-flash-3rd-days-of-demonstrations-violence-deaths-and-destruction.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-41611-haiti-flash-2nd-day-of-demonstrations-update-on-the-situation-in-the-country.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-41604-haiti-flash-the-country-at-the-time-of-anti-government-demonstrations.html HL/ HaitiLibre BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. The U.S. Embassy's statement on the February 7 presidential election is a manifestation of disrespect for the will of the Azerbaijani people and rudeness that breaches simple diplomatic norms, Trend reports, referring to the Western Azerbaijani Community. The statement notes that the claim of the country that has never condemned Armenia's 30-year occupation policy, the ethnic cleansing committed, the words of "democratic" Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and "genius commander" David Tonoyan in Washington, threatening Azerbaijan with "a new war for new territories," and has not even mentioned the right of return of Western Azerbaijanis, sounds extremely ridiculous. "If American diplomats place such a high value on OSCE recommendations, we first encourage them to become acquainted with the organization's suggestions for the US presidential elections in November 2020. That report expressly states that the recommendations mentioned in earlier OSCE assessments were never adopted. We urge American officials to avoid hypocrisy," the Western Azerbaijan Community's statement reads. Stay up to date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Luke 17:6 "If you have faith the size of a mustard seed ...." Out our way, we don't see a lot of celebrities, but one day a few years back I ran into "Will Smith." OK, not the real dude, but a look alike that came pretty close to the "Fresh Prince of BelAir." As some of you know, "Doc" has a girlfriend, a gorgeous auburn colored pinto named "Babe." She is a lot smaller than Doc, but she is as smooth-as-silk in her gaits and a good ride. Unfortunately, she was raised in pastures and paddocks with other horses and never got used to cows. To the contrary, she is terrified of them. Well, I decided she needed to get over her fear and so Charlie and I took her herding one day. She was nervous and antsy as we rode - but I circled her a few times and she calmed down. In fact, she was calm enough for us to ride up to a feeder on a hill where some four or five units were having a feed. I rode on ahead and kept smooth talking to Babe as we approached and she was really doing fine. I called out to Charlie, who was a few yards behind us, "Looks like she has settled down!" And Charlie yelled back, "Yeah, well what about the horse-eating calf over there?" Sure enough, a young calf, ears wide, mouth open and inquisitive expression, was doing a perfect impression of Will Smith staring at us. Babe turned and looked and freaked out. Snorting, tap dancing and very nearly cross hopping, she was in a panic. For that matter, so was I, for I am not the most talented bronc rider in the West. Charlie laughed and said, "Well how did I know she understands English?" Then, seeing I was in trouble, he called out, "Just circle her, and she'll calm down." As I am losing my seat, my stirrups, and my balance, I didn't have a lot of faith in Charlie's advice, but I tightened the reins and turned her head ... and by gum, she circled! She kept pitching and kicking out, but I kept circling her and she began to calm down. It took a few minutes - I say 45 ... Charlie says it was more like two - but she was fine. "Will" was still standing there gape-mouthed, ears spread, and staring ... but Babe was no longer afraid. Indeed, I turned Babe toward him and he took off in a panic. Some medicine show preachers say that the real Christians never doubt or feel fear. Well, it seems Jesus disagrees. The "mustard seed" is one of the smallest of all seeds, and while Christ aims for us to have a faith to move mountains, He does not expect us to grow it overnight. The mustard seed is a tiny seed, and I gather the mustard plant grows quite large. But you have to plant it. I was ready to bail that day, but with what little hope or faith I had in my panic, I heard Charlie tell me to hang on, circle Babe and rode out the fear. We all have our "Will Smiths" that pop up and cause us unexpected and often terrifying trials. It's OK to be scared - but not to give up. Though your faith is "as small as a mustard seed," remember He also said, "Lo, I am with you always!" (Matthew 28:20). Be blessed and be a blessing. Brother John -- The Rev. John Bruington is the retired pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Havre. He now lives in Colorado, but continues to write "Out Our Way." He can be reached for comment or dialogue at [email protected]. After months of hinting at it, U.S. Rep. Matt Rosendale, R-Mont., has announced his long-predicted run for Senate, challenging incumbent Democratic Sen. Jon Tester, assuming he can beat his primary opponent Montana veteran and businessman Tim Sheehy. In his announcement, Rosendale criticized conservative voices that have urged him not to run or are supporting his opponent, seemingly equating them to liberal and left-wing forces in Congress. "For decades, (Senate Minority Leader) Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), and the Washington establishment have sold the American people short," said Rosendale. "They've been the architects of a $34 trillion debt, the invasion taking place at the southern border, allowing China to spy on Americans and emerge as the global superpower, all while enriching their friends with the Green New Deal, at the taxpayer's expense." Rosendale repeatedly criticized McConnell, accusing him of collaborating with Democrats and supporting wasteful government spending while presuming to chose Montana's next senator. "While it has truly been an honor and a privilege to represent Montana in the U.S. House of Representatives, it is difficult for me to stand by and allow Mitch McConnell to select our next senator who would be another voice for the uniparty and another vote for every pork-filled omnibus that comes through the Senate." McConnell and Montana Republican Sen. Steve Daines have been vocally supportive of Rosendale's primary opponent Tim Sheehy, which has caused a fair amount of tension within the party over the race. In response to Rosendale's announcement a Sheehy spokesperson touted Sheehy's business and military background, his unwavering loyalty to former president Donald Trump, and his commitment to beating Tester. "Trump and Tim Sheehy cannot be bought and are the conservative warriors we need to put the people of Montana first, drain the swamp, and save our country from the mess Joe Biden and Jon Tester created." Daines also commented on the announcement expressing doubt that Rosendale can defeat Tester after losing to him in 2018. "It's unfortunate that rather than building seniority for our great state in the House, Matt is choosing to abandon his seat and create a divisive primary," Daines said in a press release. Daines reiterated his support for Sheehy saying he is the best candidate to take on Tester, who Rosendale has already lost to. "Republicans cannot risk nominating a candidate who gave Jon Tester the biggest victory of his career," Daines said. Tester had not publicly reacted to the announcement by print deadline this morning. First things first. Our Baby Marley is home. She is home, ready for the hard work of getting healthy and growing and looking at everything around her with those big eyes. We are so grateful. And we are so grateful for all the friends and strangers who cared, who in small ways took our baby in their arms and into their hearts and helped her heal. Thank you. That dog of mine has put me into the habit of greeting the rising sun on our first walk of the day. Believe me, before Lola came to live with me, I did not leave the house at first light. Ive no problem anthropomorphizing non-humans around me. This morning, in my meditations, the birds, in all their great variety, inhabiting the wide-spreading trees, took on characteristics of people living in high-rise condominiums, maybe without quite as much fuss as we humans. Kiskadees prefer the upper floors, the penthouse suites, noses high in the air, a bit above the rest of us, more colorful, louder in their opinions. Let me tell you, those kiskadees, they are loud! And insistent that you hear their opinions. Over and over and over. They would be great radio personalities, you know the kind, ones who host phone-in talk shows. Tanagers and palomas seem to furnish the middle units quite happily. These characters are softer voiced, more musical, more space between their words. Rainbirds like to hang out, separate but connected. They are private types, tend to listen before they sound off. (Im making this up, of course, you know that.) Partridge doves and warblers nest in every limb of the lower units. These inhabitants of the numerous condos, apartments and high-rises around us, provide the background music of life, always there, always singing. Of course, this is my own silliness, a silliness that sprang from thinking about how much the birds need the trees and the trees need the birds. Thats what I think, at any rate. And we, or I, need the trees and the birds. When I leave the house in the morning I walk beneath a ring of trees, full of birds singing the sun up. If the birds go silent, I look around to see what and why. They pay no attention to me. This morning I saw a hawk, a rare sight. Vultures are always circling the air currents. Vultures dont live in our ring of trees but they have habitations in a particular group of trees in town. The birds give no mind to the vultures, knowing they are looking for riper prey. Once my birds deemed the hawk of no danger to them, they resumed song. But is it song? Maybe they are arguing. My nest is better than your nest. What about that slovenly bird-brain on branch 23? Birds of that feather shouldnt be allowed to live among we-are-better-than-thems. Deport that bunch back to Missouri. Take away their visas. Those lower-caste birds on the bottom tiers, cant we boot them to the slums? They are surely nothing but troublemakers. In my world, silly or not, Ill call bird voices song. Or prayer. Or blessing. This morning I noticed a flock of yellow tanagers. I love the tanagers. (The Western tanager is red-orange, a glory of feather-dress, and likes to hang out in the bottlebrush.) These yellow tanagers, or they might be orioles, were riding the air to the height of the tallest pines. We have a type of pine tree that tends to loom above the spreading-branches trees. The tanagers this morning perched on outside branches of the pine tree above Julies house, arranged themselves as if they were Christmas decorations. The sight so delightful, I had to stop in my tracks with admiration for so long that Lola, whod pranced ahead of me, came back to see why I had not followed her back to our house. Ive come to believe, personal experience, youth is wasted on the young. When I grew up on my Dads farm on the Milk River, my get-away place was a cottonwood tree, trunk and branches leaning over the water. Id climb that tree to sing, to cry, to celebrate, to sulk, to dream, to tell God of my understanding back then, what I wanted and how I thought my life should go. Amen. I remember the texture of the cottonwood bark beneath my fingers, the solid branches holding me in the air, the mottled shadows of sunlight through the leaves, the tortured twigs of winter. But, I dont remember the birds. I know there were birds. There had to be birds. Where were the birds? Where was I? Sondra Ashton grew up in Harlem but spent most of her adult life out of state. She returned to see the Hi-Line with a perspective of delight. After several years back in Harlem, Ashton is seeking new experiences in Etzatlan, Mexico. Once a Montanan, always. Read Ashtons essays and other work at http://montanatumbleweed.blogspot.com/. Email [email protected]. Plain and simple people get sick. Right now, more than 250,000 predominantly low-income Montanans get help with health care through Medicaid a state-federal partnership. Montana has overall and primary responsibility, while the feds pick up most of the costs, averaging 80% (of total Medicaid spending). In 2022, the federal government provided $1.8 billion to cover health care for Medicaid-eligible Montanans who live in every county across the Big Sky. Remarkably, two-thirds of Medicaid recipients live in our rural communities. So, what is Medicaid, and who does it serve? Not only does Medicaid fund health care services for our lower-income neighbors including children, families and pregnant moms, but it also covers those with serious disabilities. By reducing the number of uninsured, Medicaid has also helped keep health care insurance costs down for everyone while pumping money into Montanas economy. The Medicaid reimbursements for rural and urban health care providers keep the doors of health care facilities open and help retain health care providers. Small businesses also benefit from Medicaid, as they often cannot afford to provide health insurance for their employees whether they work full or part time. Medicaid expansion is a critical program for our Native American Montanans. The Indian Health Service continues to be woefully underfunded; a recent series of newspaper articles illustrates the health care challenges facing those who reside on reservations. Medicaid has greatly boosted services to Native Americans, allowing them to access a broader range of health care providers. The federal government reimburses the care provided to Native Americans on Medicaid at 100%. Despite the benefits of Medicaid, we now have over 120,000 Montanans 18% of kiddos who have lost Medicaid coverage due to DPHHS procedural snafus. The end of the COVID Public Health Emergency necessitated each state to review eligibility for Medicaid. Thats reasonable; however, Montana launched a process that is difficult, confusing and sometimes impossible for people to reapply or maintain eligibility. The result: Almost 1 in every 3 Medicaid recipients has been denied not because of eligibility but 64% for technical or procedural issues. Montana now has among the highest and worst records in the nation for terminating health insurance for children. Disgraceful. Reports indicate 4- to 6-hour telephone waits and multiple tries for Medicaid recipients to provide documentation to keep their insurance. Unbelievably some folks did not know their coverage had been terminated until they arrived at the doctors office. What happened to Gov. Greg Gianfortes political promises of less bureaucracy? Alarmed by Montanas record, federal health care authorities have twice requested changes to this process echoing a chorus of local health care providers (such as the Montana Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatricians) asking for a 30-day pause to stop children from losing their coverage. Meanwhile, state officials seem hell-bent on purging the Medicaid rolls, to the detriment of peoples health as well as our economy. Is this purging a signal of things to come? Medicaid expansion must be renewed during the 2025 legislative session. Montanas Medicaid program is not plagued by fraud and abuse exactly the opposite. Its bewildering to think about the consequences of this purge. Ironically there is an ongoing major mental health reform initiative, aimed at expanding access. Yet, many of those losing Medicaid need mental or behavioral health services but will no longer be eligible. The governor is taking Montana backward, not forward. Is this the Montana we want for our children, those less fortunate, or folks in rural areas? Please call Gov. Gianforte and your legislator to tell them to stop dismantling Medicaid. And, then ask how in the heck this administration intends to replace the $1.8 billion in federal Medicaid program funding and keep providing health care to all the Medicaid-eligible moms and kids. Kim Gillan is a former legislator (1997-2012). Gillan was U.S. Health and Human Services regional director for Region 8 2013-2017 and worked in Healthcare Regulatory Policy for a large, midwestern healthcare system (Sanford). Financial Chain Corporation (Czechia) successfully signed a service contract with Philips Czech Republic for its Personal Health product portfolio (and its Personal Health business segment). Under this contract, the company will offer various types of services in different countries where other branches of Financial Chain Corporation are present, including the Czech Republic, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. The signing of the global cooperation contract at the Philips Czech Republic office in Prague was attended by the Director of Philips Czech Republic, Mr. Jakub Chvatal, and the Managing Partner of Financial Chain Corporation, Mr. Zaur Gadirov, as well as the Regional Manager of the Financial Chain Corporation Czech Republic, Mr. Teymur Akhundov. We are very pleased to conclude a service contract with such a large and well-known company as Philips, noted the Managing Partner of Financial Chain Corporation, Mr. Zaur Gadirov, Under this contract, we will provide various types of consulting services in the Czech Republic, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. We hope that our relationship will only strengthen in the future and we will be able to expand our geography of service provision." The contracting parties wished each other good luck, and also expressed their hope for the long-term and bilateral fruitful cooperation between the two organizations in the future. As a global company, Financial Chain Corporation continues to increase cooperation with various renowned companies in different countries. Philips is a leading health technology company focused on improving peoples health and well-being from healthy living and prevention, to diagnosis, treatment and home care. Applying advanced technologies and deep clinical and consumer insights, Philips delivers integrated solutions that help provide improved patient experience, better health outcomes, improved staff experience, and lower cost of care. Partnering with its customers, Philips seeks to transform how healthcare is delivered and experienced. The company is a leader in diagnostic imaging, ultrasound, image-guided therapy, monitoring and enterprise informatics, as well as in personal health. (CNBC) Sequoia Capital China, Qualcomm Ventures and three other venture capital firms plowed at least $3 billion into Chinese tech companies that support Beijings military and its repression of minorities in Xinjiang, a U.S. congressional report alleged on Thursday. To read this article: As the Lunar calendar turns a page to welcome the Year of the Dragon, the Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, unfolds in a spectacular display of traditions, celebrations, and global recognition. This year, the festivities begin on February 10th, marking the start of the most significant holiday in China and for millions around the world. The Spring Festival not only heralds the lunar new year but embodies the rich tapestry of Chinese culture, its influence, and the shared joy across diverse communities. CGTN's "Super Night" Ushers in the Festivities To kick off the celebrations, CGTN is hosting a grand Spring Festival special titled "Super Night" on the eve of the Chinese New Year. This unique live TV program promises a plethora of splendid performances, reaching audiences worldwide through CGTN's multilingual channels. Viewers can tune in at 7:30 p.m. Beijing Time on February 9th to witness a vibrant array of shows and festival blessings in English, Spanish, French, Arabic, and Russian, underscoring the inclusive spirit of the festivities. UN's Recognition of Spring Festival In a significant acknowledgment of the Spring Festival's global impact, the United Nations has officially listed it as a Floating Holiday in its Calendar of Conferences and Meetings starting from 2024. This recognition by the UN not only highlights the extensive influence of Chinese civilization but also promotes diverse and inclusive cultural values. UN employees will now enjoy a paid day off, choosing when to celebrate this floating holiday, a testament to the festival's universal appeal and the message of peace, harmony, and unity it carries. Helsinki's Misguided Decision: The Loss of Cultural Diversity and Inclusivity The abrupt termination of Helsinki's Chinese New Year celebration after a 16-year tradition represents a significant misstep in the city's approach to cultural inclusivity and diversity. Asserting a desire to focus on less recognized cultures by eliminating a well-established and popular event is a flawed strategy that misconstrues the concept of cultural balance. True balance is achieved by adding and expanding the spectrum of cultural celebrations, not by subtracting them. The Chinese New Year festivities have been an integral part of Helsinki's cultural landscape, contributing vibrant multicultural dimensions and facilitating cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. This event did not detract from the visibility or viability of other cultural celebrations; rather, it enriched the city's cultural fabric and provided a platform for the celebration of diversity. By discontinuing this event, Helsinki not only deprives its residents and the substantial Chinese community of a key annual celebration but also sends a troubling message about its commitment to multiculturalism. In doing so, the city loses an opportunity to enhance its cultural diversity through inclusion and instead opts for a reductive approach that undermines the very essence of a cosmopolitan society. The decision reflects a critical misunderstanding of how cultural celebrations can coexist, complement, and enrich one another, contributing to a more vibrant, inclusive, and dynamic urban community. Traditions and Celebrations The Spring Festival is an annual 15-day event that begins with the new moon between January 21st and February 20th, extending until the full moon that follows. This period is marked by various customs, from thorough house cleanings to drive away bad luck to the preparation of feasts and honouring of ancestors. The eve of the New Year is reserved for family reunions, where multi-generational gatherings enjoy a banquet of traditional foods, exchange red envelopes with money, and light fireworks to welcome the new year. A panda cub playing with festive decorations at the Wolong National Nature Reserve in Wenchuan / Sichuan province The Year of the Dragon The Chinese zodiac, a 12-year cycle of animal signs, moves into the Year of the Dragon in 2024. The dragon, a symbol of strength, luck, and vitality, promises a year of potential and prosperity. People born in the Year of the Dragon, including years such as 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, and now 2024, will celebrate their Zodiac Year of Birth (Ben Ming Nian), an occasion of special significance and reflection. Global Celebrations and Cultural Exchange The Chinese New Year's global appeal is evident in its celebration across various countries and regions, making it a statutory holiday in many places. The UN Secretary-General's annual congratulatory message ahead of the Spring Festival extends holiday greetings to people worldwide, further solidifying its place as a global cultural event. As the festival progresses, the climax arrives around Lunar New Year's Eve, with the festival atmosphere dominated by iconic red lanterns, loud fireworks, and massive banquets. The celebrations culminate in the Festival of Lanterns, lighting up streets and homes, bringing the festivities to a close with a blend of joy and nostalgia. A Time for Family and Unity Like Christmas in Western cultures, Chinese New Year is a time for family reunions, heartfelt conversations, and shared meals, reinforcing the bonds of kinship and community. It is a period of renewal, where old debts are settled, homes are cleansed of the previous year's misfortunes, and individuals look forward with hope to the new year. The Year of the Dragon 2024 invites everyone to partake in these ancient rituals and modern celebrations, bridging cultures and continents. It is a testament to the enduring legacy and evolving narrative of the Chinese New Year, a festival that continues to captivate the imagination and hearts of people around the globe. HT The Parliaments Grand Committee on Thursday approved the position adopted by the government with the backing of votes from the four ruling parties and the Centre. THE FINNISH GOVERNMENT is prepared to shrug off criticism from companies and non-governmental organisations and torpedo the corporate responsibility directive of the European Union, reports Helsingin Sanomat. The Green League, Left Alliance and Social Democrats submitted a dissenting opinion to the committee report. The ruling parties are of the opinion that the extension of class action rights to environmental organisations and trade unions is sufficient grounds for abstaining from voting in the decisive meeting of the EU Council on Friday, a move that is counted as a vote against under the rules of the EU Council. The directive would obligate corporations operating on the continent to determine and respond to environment and human rights-related risks in their supply chain. Finnish non-governmental organisations, as well as some companies, have criticised the decision to effectively vote against the directive. They warned earlier this week that the government is about to undermine years of work to enhance the responsibility of supply chains on flimsy grounds. The government is concerned especially about the clause that would enable a group of private individuals to authorise a trade union or environmental organisation to take legal action on their behalf against a company allegedly violating their responsibility obligations. An agreement on the contents of the directive was reached at the end of last year after two years of negotiations. Members of the 27-country bloc are set to approve the agreement on Friday, but the Finnish government announced last week it could abstain from voting for the directive as part of a larger group of countries. The possibility of torpedoing the directive has stirred up concerns among some companies, according to Kimmo Lipponen, the CEO at Finnish Business & Society (FIBS). The corporate responsibility network has roughly 400 member companies, including some of the largest in Finland. EU-level regulation on responsibility efforts is welcomed by companies because it would make it easier to operate in the internal market and level the playing field for competition, Lipponen explained to Helsingin Sanomat on Wednesday. The responsibility directive would also apply to large foreign corporations operating in the EU. Companies rarely want regulation, but this thing is important, he said. This is a crazy situation. Both FIBS and the Consumers Union of Finland believe the Finnish government should support the directive, the latter arguing that toppling it would contradict the government programme. The directive is needed, wanted and long-devised improvement also to the position of consumers in markets. Finlands current plan to torpedo the proposal is shameful in light of its reputation as a frontrunner in responsibility, commented Juha Beurling-Pomoell, the secretary general of the Consumers Union. The Finnish government argued last week that the proposed expansion of class action rights is extremely problematic from the viewpoint of the legal system. In Finland, class actions are currently only possible in consumer-related cases. FIBS contrastively gauged in its statement that expanded class-action rights are a useful addition to the directive. If you look at the global south, where the risk of human rights violations is higher, this kind of class action rights are the only way to get justice, Lipponen stated to Helgingin Sanomat. The Finnish Corporate Responsibility Law Association agrees, estimating that the government position on the question of class action rights is disproportional. It may also be in the interest of companies and the legal system that cases are brought as class actions instead of several independent claims. Class actions are therefore a justified element of the directive, and their incorporation into national legislation is not impossible, the association argued in its statement. Juho Romakkaniemi, the director of Finland Chamber of Commerce, indicated to Helsingin Sanomat that the interest group changed its position on the responsibility directive because the expanded class action rights were a late addition that was made without an impact assessment. He described the rights as a major issue of the philosophy of law: It grants organisations really peculiar judicial standing. Its such a big concern that we dont want the directive to come into effect in this form. The directive is at genuine risk of falling apart. Also Germany is intent on abstaining, while Estonia, Italy and Sweden are reportedly weighing up their position. Should these countries join the group of abstentions, the opposing minority would be large enough to prevent the directive from coming into effect, according to Helsingin Sanomat. Aleksi Teivainen HT Young musicians to join U.S. Navy Band performing Sousa march in concert Ten young musicians from Henderson County public schools will join the United States Navy Concert Band to perform a John Phillips Sousa march when the Navy's premier wind ensemble performs a free concert at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 16, at Hendersonville High School Auditorium. The students from county schools will perform Sousas "Washington Post March." All U.S. Navy Band performances are free and open to the public, although ticket reservations are required. A part of the Navy Bands 2024 national tour, the concert is a family-friendly event, meant to connect community members across the country with their Navy. The Navy Concert Band is the premier wind ensemble of the U.S. Navy. As the original ensemble of the Navy Band, the Concert Band has performed public concerts and participated in high-profile events for 98 years. The band performs a wide array of marches, patriotic selections, orchestral transcriptions and modern wind ensemble repertoire. One of the U.S. Navy Bands core responsibilities involves touring the country. All of the bands primary performing units embark each year on concert tours throughout specified regions of the country, allowing the band to reach out to audiences in areas of the country that do not have opportunities to see the Navy's premier musical ensembles on a regular basis. Musicians invited to perform with the band are Elijah Bandy , percussion, Hendersonville High; Noelle Benjamin, clarinet , Hendersonville High; Caroline Pope, tuba, Hendersonville High; Sebastian Sanchez, trombone, Hendersonville High; Bryce Eames, trumpet, West Henderson High; Sean Nakano, French horn, West Henderson High; Sam Lewis, trombone, North Henderson High; Jacob Houston, trumpet, North Henderson High; Jordan Magyar, bass clarinet, East Henderson High; and Humberto Perez Hernandez, trumpet, East Henderson High. * * * * * Although the concert is free and open to the public, attendees are required to reserve a ticket. Go here to do so. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Azerbaijan's Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov has received the First Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives of Jordan Abdurrahim Al-Maayah and Assistant to the Speaker of the Jordanian Senate, Chair of the Jordanian-Azerbaijani Brotherhood Committee, Mufleh Al-Rahimi, Trend reports via the Foreign Ministry of Azerbaijan. The meeting reviewed Azerbaijan and Jordan's bilateral and multilateral cooperation, presidential election observation issues, and regional trends. Furthermore, the meeting highlighted that the increase in the frequency of mutual visits and high-level interactions has accelerated the development of bilateral relations. A special focus was placed on the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in the continued development of ties. It was noted that in the more than 30 years since diplomatic ties were established, the two nations have built mutually beneficial bilateral cooperation in political, economic, trade, tourism, education, and other areas. Support for mutual friendliness and solidarity was also demonstrated inside regional and international organizations such as the United Nations, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the Non-Aligned Movement, and other multilateral forums. The relevance of the political consultation mechanism and the intergovernmental commission on trade, economic, and technical cooperation between the Azerbaijani and Jordanian governments in considering potential collaboration was stressed. Bayramov reported on the organizational preparations for the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), which will be held in Azerbaijan this year. He expressed optimism that this big event will open up new chances for collaboration development. The Jordanian side conveyed its congratulations on the successful organization of the extraordinary presidential election as well as its results, wishing Azerbaijan sustainable development and prosperity. Additionally, the meeting featured an exchange of opinions on other bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest. Stay up to date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. A total of 90.53 percent of Azerbaijan's citizens registered at its embassy in Turkmenistan took part in the extraordinary presidential election, a source in the embassy told Trend. In connection with the election, polling station No. 48 was organized at the diplomatic mission. Azerbaijani citizens temporarily residing in Turkmenistan or on a business trip there showed a high voter turnout. The extraordinary presidential election in Azerbaijan took place on February 7. Seven candidates ran in the election. According to the Central Election Commission (CEC) of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev led in the presidential election in Azerbaijan with 92.05 percent of the votes after the processing of 93.35 percent of the ballots. While other contenders: Zahid Oruj received 2.19 percent of the votes, Razi Nurullayev received 0.8 percent, Fazil Mustafa received two percent, Elshad Musayev received 0.67 percent, Gudrat Hasanguliyev received 1.76 percent, and Fuad Aliyev received 0.53 percent of the votes. According to the results of the US-based Oracle Advisory Group and the Citizens' Labor Rights Protection League, 93.9 percent of voters cast their ballots for Ilham Aliyev. The Social Research Center said that 92.4 percent of voters voted for Ilham Aliyev. Based on the results of the exit poll of the Ray Monitoring Center, 92.6 percent of voters voted for Ilham Aliyev. For the first time in the history of independent Azerbaijan, the election covered the entire territory of the country, including 26 polling stations in the lands liberated from Armenian occupation. Stay up to date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Eliminates burdensome costs for Tribes to operate a program Today, the Biden-Harris Administrations U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), announced a final rule to eliminate a burdensome cost sharing requirement for Tribal child support programs. The new rule is consistent with President Bidens recent executive order on Reforming Federal Funding and Support for Tribal Nations to Better Embrace Our Trust Responsibilities and Promote the Next Era of Tribal Self-Determination and part of a Biden Administration push to more effectively support Tribal governments. The rule cuts red tape and improves the flexibility and accessibility of federal funding so that Tribes can grow their economies and provide their citizens with vital and innovative services. "The Biden-Harris Administration has worked hard to eliminate costs and barriers for Tribes. These changes will make it easier and less expensive for Tribal community-run child support programs to meet the needs of their communities," said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra. "Its part of what it means to honor Tribal sovereignty and the trust relationship between the federal government and Tribal Nations cutting red tape and eliminating barriers for Tribes governments to serve their people. Making federal resources more accessible helps Tribal economies grow and puts vital and innovative services within reach for everyone." "ACF recognizes Tribal sovereignty and is committed to strengthening our government-to-government relationship with Tribes to support the well-being of Native American children and families," said ACF Acting Assistant Secretary Jeff Hild. "This rule makes it easier for Tribes to serve their children and families through their programs that are consistent with their history, values, and cultures." Tribal governments have fewer revenue-generating options than state governments, and they have consistently shared that the non-federal share requirement is a burden to operating their own child support programs. In fact, out of the 574 federally-recognized Tribes in the United States, only 61 operate Tribal child support programs. Eliminating this cost-sharing requirement for a Tribal child support program will help Tribes operate programs for their communities. Tribes have shown success operating their own programs. In FY 2022, Tribal child support programs collected $51 million in child support payments, including $10 million collected on behalf of another Tribe, state or country. Of Native American children in Tribal areas with child support programs, 53 percent live in single-parent families. "Im so fortunate to learn from vibrant Tribal communities, their dedicated child support directors and Tribal leaders and staff during site visits and conferences," said ACF Office of Child Support Services Commissioner Tanguler Gray. "Weve heard their feedback loud and clear, and are doing what we can to remove unnecessary burdens to operating their own programs. This rule does just that, and will make it easier for existing and new Tribal child support programs to access funding they need to improve outcomes for children and families." This rule also promotes equity and honors Tribal sovereignty and the trust relationship between the federal government and Tribal Nations. The purpose behind the trust doctrine is and always has been to ensure the survival and welfare of Indian Tribes and people. This includes an obligation to provide those services required to protect and enhance Tribal lands, resources and self-government, and includes those economic and social programs necessary to raise the standard of living and social well-being of Native people. "I'm proud of our Tribal partnerships and how this rule works to improve equity and reduce systemic barriers to services," said ACF Administration for Native Americans Commissioner and Deputy Assistant Secretary for Native American Affairs Patrice H. Kunesh. "The Administration for Children and Families will continue to support social and economic development in a manner that provides Tribal Nations with the greatest possible self-determination." Sagittarius (22nd November to 21st December) Daily Horoscope Prediction says, continue your triumph today! Despite the internal issues, the relationship will be intact. Handle professional tasks that will give you the opportunity to prove your mettle. Check more details. Sagittarius Daily Horoscope Today, January 10, 2024: Despite the internal issues, the relationship will be intact. You will see some bright romantic moments today. Have a productive professional day. Being careful about finance and health is an area of concern. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Sagittarius Love Horoscope Today You may see minor frictions in the relationship that need immediate repair. Handle every crisis with confidence. Talk openly with your lover to repair the issue. Sagittarius natives who recently broke up will be happy to find someone special. Some Sagittarius females will settle disputes with ex-lovers and will go back to the old relationship. But married people should stay out of this as you should not compromise on the family life. Sagittarius Career Horoscope Today Ensure you are punctual at the office and maintain a good rapport with team members. Official egos will work out today and you need to be careful about office politics. A coworker or senior will raise a finger at your performance. Be careful while interacting with team members of the opposite gender as sexual allegations may come up today, causing serious mental agony. Traders may have issues with authorities that need immediate repair. Sagittarius Money Horoscope Today Despite minor financial issues, you will be good today. A property that you have been trying to sell for a long time will be sold today. Some natives will buy electronic devices and businessmen will receive funds in the second part of the day. Be careful while lending money to someone. Those who are traveling need to be careful about their wallet. You may also need to contribute money for a party or celebration at the workplace or among friends. Sagittarius Health Horoscope Today You may have breathing difficulties today and will need medical attention. Sagittarius natives will also develop pain in elbows and knees. There can be minor infections affecting the throat, ear, and nose. Avoid taking too much stress as it may lead to frequent headaches and sinus problems. You may also join a gym or yoga class this evening. Sagittarius Sign Attributes Strength: Wise, Practical, Audacious, Beautiful, Lively, Energetic, Lovely, Optimistic Weakness: Forgetful, Careless, Irritating Symbol: Archer Element: Fire Body Part: Thighs & Liver Sign Ruler: Jupiter Lucky Day: Thursday Lucky Color: Light Blue Lucky Number: 6 Lucky Stone: Yellow Sapphire Sagittarius Sign Compatibility Chart Virgo (23rd August to 22nd September) Daily Horoscope Prediction says walk towards success Resolve the troubles in the love life today. Your commitment at the workplace will help to obtain supreme professional results. Health can be a concern today. Virgo Daily Horoscope Today, January 10, 2024: Resolve the troubles in the love life today. Be optimistic in your relationship and youll see the changes. Show your diligence at the workplace and attain the best results. Handle wealth smartly while health can give you minor troubles today. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Virgo Love Horoscope Today Have a positive attitude towards relationship issues. Be sincere and shower affection unconditionally. Open communication is a key factor in the love life. You may consider traveling somewhere romantic, this weekend. Introduce the lover to the family and also get permission for marriage. Single Virgos may come across someone special. Those who are married need to stay away from outside relationships which may damage their marriage today. Virgo Career Horoscope Today Your performance at the workplace will be good today. While new tasks will come up, it is crucial you spend more time and stay focused. IT, healthcare, architecture, hospitality, and automobile professionals will see opportunities abroad. If you are into business, this is the time to expand beyond horizons and invest in multiple ventures. The fortunate ones will also expand their business to foreign locations. Some students who have applied to foreign universities can expect positive news today. Virgo Money Horoscope Today Have proper control over the expenditure and the inflow of wealth will not be as good as you expected. You may buy home appliances and furniture in the second half of the day but avoid gold, property, and investment in speculative business. Virgos may need to spend on the medical expenses of a relative while females may require contributing for a party tonight. Some Virgos will need money to meet the educational needs of the child studying abroad. Virgo Health Horoscope Today Be careful about your health today. There can be medical complications in the first part of the day. Some seniors may have chest-related infections that require immediate medical attention. Females having migraine and gynecological issues may miss the routine life. Students playing outside will have minor bruises as well. Keep a distance from oily, greasy food as that can also lead to more obesity. Virgo Sign Attributes Strength: Kind, Elegant, Perfectionist, Modest, Strong-willed Kind, Elegant, Perfectionist, Modest, Strong-willed Weakness: Picky, Over-possessive Picky, Over-possessive Symbol: Virgin maiden Virgin maiden Element: Earth Earth Body Part: Intestine Intestine Sign Ruler : Mercury : Mercury Lucky Day: Wednesday Wednesday Lucky Color: Gray Gray Lucky Number: 7 7 Lucky Stone: Sapphire Virgo Sign Compatibility Chart [Bengaluru, 09/2/2024] In the spirit of spreading love and creating unforgettable memories, Bag2Bag Hotels & Homes has joined hands with50+ renowned hotel groups in major cities in India! This exciting collaboration brings you a curated selection of Valentine's Day packages, designed to cater to couples seeking a heartwarming celebration. The comprehensive and all-inclusive packages are set to be available for booking starting February 5. In a bid to redefine romantic getaways, Bag2Bag is introducing these all-inclusive packages to cater to the needs of busy individuals who find it challenging to plan last-minute staycations or daycations. Whether you are a couple looking for a romantic escape or someone seeking a rejuvenating break, Bag2Bag has tailored offerings to suit every preference. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Celebrate Valentines Day with Bag2Bags exclusive packages In a pioneering move, Bag2Bag Hotels & Homes proudly introduces the industry's First-of-Its-Kind Valentine's Day packages exclusively designed for couples on their OTA platform. This groundbreaking initiative further solidifies Bag2Bag's position as a trendsetter in the hospitality industry, as it continues to pave the way for innovative and customer-centric solutions in the ever-evolving travel landscape. Experiences That are Crafted for You: The all-inclusive packages are designed to provide a hassle-free experience, allowing guests to choose from hourly stays to comprehensive couple packages. These packages encompass a range of amenities to make each stay a memorable and romantic one. Daycations and Staycations:Discover the epitome of romantic bliss with Bag2Bag's exclusive Daycation and Staycation offerings, meticulously designed withstays for couplesseeking quality time together. Whether you're looking for a brief interlude or a more extended retreat, they have the perfect packages to create lasting memories with your partner. Couple's All-Inclusive Packages: Tailored specifically for couples, these packages include a host of romantic amenities to create an intimate and enchanting atmosphere. From secluded hideaways to beachside escapes, Bag2Bag ensures that your romantic getaway is a haven of comfort and connection. Amenities Galore: Guests can indulge in a variety of offerings, such as a private Jacuzzi experience, candlelight dinners, in-room champagne breakfasts, romantic room decorations adorned with rose petals, a glass of fine wine, and the opportunity to savour a decadent slice of cake. Food and Beverages: Many of these packages include an exquisite buffet treat for guests with a delightful array of gourmet delights for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, complemented by a cozy campfire setting, adding to the overall charm of the stay. Exclusive Cashback Offers: To sweeten the deal, Bag2Bag presents exclusive cashback offers for Valentine's Day stays booked through the Bag2Bag app. Guests can enjoy 1000 or 500 cashback, making their romantic escape even more enticing. Furthermore, indulge in a special 100% cashback offer on stays throughout the entire Valentines Month. Recognizing a significant gap in the market, we have strategically addressed the challenge of planning last-minute staycations or daycations, particularly during this romantic season, says Mr. Alok Mishra, co-founder and CEO of Bag2Bag. It's about creating an experience that ignites romance, sparks joy, and leaves you with memories that last a lifetime. Our exclusive packages are specially crafted to do just that, offering couples across India a chance to reconnect, celebrate, and fall in love all over again." For more information and to book these exclusive Valentine's Day packages, visit:www.bag2bag.in About Bag2Bag Hotels and Homes: Bag2Bag is a pioneering and customer-centric platform in the travel and hospitality industry, providing an innovative solution for travellers seeking flexible and convenient accommodation options. Established with the vision of transforming the way people experience travel, Bag2Bag offers a unique booking platform that allows guests to book hotel rooms and accommodations on an hourly basis. With an extensive selection of 10,000+ partnered hotels across 100+ cities, Bag2Bag offers customized hourly stays, overnight hotels, resorts, service apartments, and more for hours, days, weeks, or months, providing travellers with flexibility and savings. Established in 2019, Bag2Bag is diligently managed by its three foundersAlok Mishra, Anurag Tiwari, and Gaurav Gargleading a team of over 22 dedicated employees in crafting exceptional travel experiences for individuals, headquartered in Bengaluru, Karnataka. Download the mobile app https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ionicframework.projectx956620 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. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Prime Minister of Croatia Andrej Plenkovic sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on the occasion of a victory in the presidential election, Trend reports. "Dear Mr. President, On behalf of the Government of the Republic of Croatia and in my personal capacity, I would like to extend to you my sincere congratulations on your re-election as the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Over the past thirty years, Croatia and Azerbaijan have achieved a high level of bilateral cooperation. I am glad that in our meeting in Baku in November 2023, we had a chance to discuss how to enhance our overall cooperation, especially in the fields of trade and energy security. In the period ahead, we remain committed to working closely with you and the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan on further advancement of our political, economic and cultural relations. Wishing you much success in your future endeavours for the benefit of the people of Azerbaijan, please accept, Mr. President, the assurances of my highest consideration," the letter reads. New Delhi, Delhi, India Business Wire India As February approaches, all eyes are on DLF Promenade, Delhi's shopping paradise that has set the bar for the latest trends, fashion and events. With great excitement, the mall celebrates its 15th Anniversary, a remarkable occasion representing a beautiful journey with all patrons playing a significant role in its growth. Over the past 15 years, DLF Promenade has catalyzed powerful changes in brands, audiences, and experiences. From being Delhi's first Fashion Destination to pioneering free vaccination drives during the pandemic, bringing the best events to the city and offering a wide array of culinary excellence - the mall has consistently evolved. The awards, such as the Sword of Honour from the British Safety Council and LEAD Platinum certification from USGBC, only amplify its promise of quality and the highest safety standards in the country. Over these 15 years, all of Delhis catch up plans, dinner dates, shopping sprees, movie screenings, kids carnivals have been centered at DLF Promenade and the catch phrase See You at Promenade has stuck! Stepping back in time, patrons are invited to join DLF Promenade on a nostalgic journey with "See You at Promenade." This iconic campaign revisits the past 15 years filled with transformation and development, honoring the mall's growth and creating a bond with beloved patrons who have been with the mall every step of the way. To celebrate the 15th Anniversary, DLF Promenade plans a series of live performances featuring local bands, solo artists, and headlining acts. Each week brings a unique theme. Ranging from Dessert Bazaar by LBB and Kiddyland winter carnival for kids on 11th Feb, a live folk and sufi night by Barmer Boys on 17th Feb, Doggie Valentine Party on 18th feb and a theatre performance with Chekhov plays on 25th Feb. Through their Grand Giveaways, all shoppers stand a chance to win gift vouchers. The top 15 shoppers this month can win an all expense paid trip to Finland, exclusive bars from Haus of Bars, gold coins from Tanishq and Orra, and Samsung watches among many other gift hampers. With these and many other rewards, every shopper is in for a treat. As they celebrate this momentous occasion at DLF Promenade, the team also expresses sincere gratitude to the loyal customers who have shown endless love and support throughout the years. Moving forward, the commitment remains to provide exceptional service to the audience, eagerly anticipating their continued support. So, well See You at Promenade! India, February 8, 2024:- IIM Udaipur, one of Indias premier management institutions, in collaboration with Imarticus Learning, the leading professional Edtech company, introduces the Advanced Programme in Digital Supply Chain Management. This groundbreaking programme aims to empower newcomers and professionals aspiring to excel in the field of Supply Chain management by equipping them with foundational knowledge and enhanced skills to comprehend the influence of technology on the supply chain. By 2025, 30% of Indian SMBs will prioritise intelligent decision systems for advancing Research and Development and Supply Chain Management. The Digital Supply Chain Market will witness the fastest growth in the SME segment, forecasting a CAGR of 13.1% by 2027. This growth is attributed to significant technological advancements such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data, Cloud, and Mechanisation, which have revolutionised global supply chains. Integrating robotics in warehouses, increased adoption of IoT-enabled devices, and improved demand forecasting have addressed longstanding challenges, reducing human intervention, enhancing connectivity, ensuring timely production, and optimising operational effectiveness while minimising costs. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. IIM Udaipurs Advanced Programme in Digital Supply Chain Management is an intensive six-month programme that navigates supply chain management's fundamentals and advanced aspects, from introductory concepts to cutting-edge expertise. Participants will benefit from a multifaceted learning experience that includes live online lectures and immersive campus sessions, allowing them to interact with industry experts and peers. Throughout the programme, they will gain knowledge and experience real growth with the opportunity to solve real-world challenges and join a network of fellow professionals. Participants can also take part in SCM Globe Simulation and learn real-world applications. Successful programme completion grants participants eligibility to join the esteemed IIM Udaipur Executive Alumni Network, offering access to a distinguished community of accomplished professionals. Prof. Ashok Banerjee, Director IIM Udaipur, said, We are thrilled to introduce the Advanced Programme for Digital Supply Chain Management in association with Imarticus Learning. This programme reflects IIM Udaipurs commitment to nurture future leaders and entrepreneurs who will drive organisations' global success. This programme will provide learners with future-focused, outcome-oriented learning experiences. Nikhil Barshikar, Founder & CEO at Imarticus Learning, said, With the evolving technological advancements, its imperative to evolve as per industry standards. This collaboration with IIM Udaipur for an Advanced Digital Supply Chain Management Programme would be a pathway for a digital supply chain leader equipped to drive innovation, efficiency, and success. This programme is open to individuals holding a minimum qualification of a graduate degree (Diploma or Bachelor's) with 50% aggregate marks from universities recognised by the Association of Indian Universities. Applicants should have a minimum of five years of work experience after graduation or a minimum of three years of work experience post-qualifying education. About IIM Udaipur: IIM Udaipur, a second-generation IIM, is one of the fastest-growing management schools in the country. The institute was established by the Indian Government in 2011. Building on the legacy of IIMs, IIM Udaipur aspires to set new benchmarks in the field of management education by combining excellence in both[PS16] teaching and research. IIM Udaipur is committed to becoming a globally recognised management school by 2030 and it is inevitably on its way. With an accomplished faculty, a flourishing research ecosystem and success in attracting brilliant minds of the country, IIMU is able to champion its values of excellence and integrity. IIMU challenges its students to expand their knowledge and their[PS19] intellectual horizons, so that they emerge transformed and prepared to have an impact on the world of business and society at large . IIM Udaipur's Executive Education programmes aim to develop, broaden the horizon, and strengthen the skills of professionals, preparing them to face the challenges of global business. About Imarticus Learning: Imarticus Learning is a leading Edtech company in India, offering high-quality, industry-specific education via innovative technology, specialised training, career assistance, and mentorship from industry professionals. It has impacted over 10,00,000 careers within a decade through leading-edge curriculums, highly experienced faculty, and over 500 global partnerships with leading institutions and corporations. Imarticus Learning seeks to upskill existing and future workers to fulfil various industries' current and upcoming job market demands. Its objective is to provide learners with valuable learning experiences, educate them with industry-specific skills, and prepare them to take on multiple job roles in their sector. Imarticus Learning is renowned for its unique teaching methodology, including immersive live lectures (online and offline), peer-to-peer discussions, hybrid learning modules, industry-focused seminars, capstone projects, guest lectures, soft skills training, etc. It offers courses that prepare learners for successful careers in data science, analytics, finance, banking, and technology. 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. Complete industrialization has been made possible via the Internet of Things. IoT is the sole thing that makes various solutions like connected vehicles, smart factories, connected homes, and smart cities viable. All business types and sizes use IoT solutions in the modern day to protect their credential information when transmitting from one device to another. The nicest thing about this technology is that it works with a variety of devices, including PCs, laptops, Android phones, and iPhones. Devices can now communicate data in real-time via IoT. Many industries may offer a more promising client experience by integrating the IoT with mobile applications and other devices. The positive user experience can aid in expanding their target audience base globally and achieving extra financial or profit-related objectives. Yet, it also calls for more encouraging initiatives on the part of IoT developers. Thus, it is crucial for business owners to get in touch with a seasoned IoT development company that can provide the best IoT solution at an affordable cost. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. There are many Internet of Things (IoT) development companies out there that offer specialized IoT development services to start-ups and large corporations. Every industry, including manufacturing, transportation, finance, fitness, and healthcare, is helped by IoT development companies in India with the creation and development of the system. TopSoftwareCompanies.co has compiled a list of the top 10 IoT Development companies in India for 2024, taking into account their types of services, talents, expertise, experience, team strength, and other factors to assist businesses in finding their ideal IoT development partner. A List of the Top 10 Internet of Things (IoT) Development Companies in India 2024 1. Hyperlink InfoSystem Founded in 2011, Hyperlink InfoSystem is a top IoT Development company that offers custom IoT app development services to global businesses. To assist smart initiatives from many industries, including security, home automation, and industrial IoT, that can transform corporate operations and people's lives, Hyperlink InfoSystem provides the greatest Internet of Things apps. They offer intelligent, interconnected products that are powered by machine learning and powerful analytics to increase your productivity. They also offer integrated services to manage and deliver Internet of Things (IoT) services. Their team of dedicated software developers has developed and delivered more than 4500+ Mobile applications, 120+ AI and IoT Solutions, 25+ Metaverse Solutions, 200+ Games, 120+ Salesforce Solutions, 80+ Blockchain Solutions, and many more solutions. 2. HData Systems HData Systems is one of the leading Big-Data Analytics and Business Intelligence service providers for clients around the world. A total of 80+ big data solutions, 40+ AI solutions, and more are offered by HData Systems to an extensive list of 100+ clients. This company is a one-stop destination for your next Data Requirements. The team at HData Systems leverages the offerings of Artificial Intelligence, Data Analytics, Data Science, Big Data, and more to offer innovative data analytics and business analytical solutions to help them make informed decisions and achieve success. 3. Mphasis A leading applied technology services company, Mphasis innovates to deliver service excellence and successful outcomes across sales, delivery, and development. By embracing the future of applied technology and predicting tomorrow's trends to keep their clients ahead of the curve, they are agile, nimble, and customer-centric. Leading with architecture and design, next-gen solutions enable enterprises to speed up their digital transformation journey. 4. iMOBDEV Technologies iMOBDEV Technologies is an IT service provider company based in India. With more than 12+ years of experience in offering web and mobile app development solutions to global businesses, the team at iMOBDEV Technologies knows how to bring value to their clients and their end users. Through their help in developing business development solutions, they aim to encourage people to succeed. They are here to craft something elegant with their artistry in providing effective and exceptional software development services. 5. HCLTech HCLTech is a global technology company, home to 225,900+ people across 60 countries, delivering industry-leading capabilities centered around digital, engineering, and cloud, powered by a broad portfolio of technology services and products. They work with clients across all major verticals, providing industry solutions for Financial Services, Manufacturing, Life Sciences and Healthcare, Technology and Services, Telecom and Media, Retail and CPG, and Public Services. 6. Capgemini Capgemini is a global leader in partnering with companies to transform and manage their businesses by harnessing the power of technology. The group is guided every day by its purpose of unleashing human energy through technology for an inclusive and sustainable future. It is a responsible and diverse organization with 360,000 team members in more than 50 countries. With its strong 55-year heritage and deep industry expertise, Capgemini is trusted by its clients to address the entire breadth of their business needs, from strategy and design to operations, fueled by the fast-evolving and innovative world of cloud, data, AI, connectivity, software, digital engineering, and platforms. 7. Tech Mahindra Tech Mahindra represents the connected world, offering innovative and customer-centric information technology experiences. They focus on leveraging next-generation technologies, including 5G, blockchain, metaverse, quantum computing, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and more, to enable end-to-end digital transformation for global customers. They offer scalable, reliable, and high-end IoT development solutions that help to meet specific business needs. 8. TCS TCS, one of Indias most famous IT companies, is among the most valuable IT service brands globally. The company delivers services like mobile apps, IoT, blockchain, Enterprise Apps, Cloud Solutions, automation, AI, and so on. Established in 1968, it now runs in 149 locations across 46 nations. Tata Consultancy Services is an IT services, consulting, and business solutions organization that has been partnering with many of the worlds largest businesses for the past 50 years. They believe innovation and collective knowledge can transform all futures with greater purpose. At TCS, they go beyond helping businesses transform through technology. 9. FPT Software FPT Software is a global technology and IT services provider, with $803 million in revenue and over 27,000 employees in 27 countries. As a pioneer in digital transformation, the company delivers world-class services in smart factories, digital platforms, RPA, AI, IoT, cloud, AR/VR, BPO, and more. It has served 1000+ customers worldwide, 89 of which are Fortune Global 500 companies in automotive, banking and finance, logistics and transportation, utilities, and more. 10. Wipro Wipro is an application services partner with business and IT leaders to address their most complex business challenges to advance intelligence, agility, and resilience across their entire enterprise. In today's digital era, businesses are embracing technologies and innovations that make their organizations more intelligent, data-driven, and interconnected. They have a team of dedicated experts who have the ability to deliver top-notch IoT services that help enhance business. Compiled by TopSoftwareCompanies.co 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. More trouble for Paytm Payments Bank as the Employees' Provident Fund (EPFO) has now asked its officers to refrain from accepting claims associated with the Paytm subsidiary. In a circular issued on Thursday, the EPFO, which comes under the ministry of labour and employment, stated,"All the field officers are advised to refrain from accepting claims associated with bank accounts in Paytm Payment Bank w.e.f February 23, 2024. A vide publicity should be initiated to raise awareness about this change." The EPFO order has been issued a week after the Reserve Bank of India asked Paytm Payments Bank to stop accepting all deposits after February 29 The EPFO, with a corpus of over 18 trillion rupees and covering nearly 30 crore workers, had allowed the Paytm Payments Bank to settle claims in November last year. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. The EPFO order has been issued a week after the Reserve Bank of India asked Paytm Payments Bank to stop accepting all deposits after February 29. No further deposits or credit transactions or top ups shall be allowed in any customer accounts, prepaid instruments, wallets, FASTags, NCMC cards, etc. after February 29, 2024, other than any interest, cashbacks, or refunds which may be credited anytime, the central bank had stated. RBI says action due to persistent non-compliance While commenting on its action, the RBI had said that action against Paytm Payments Bank was taken due to persistent non-compliance. We give sufficient time to every entity to comply and sometimes more than sufficient time to the entities for compliance. If they would comply, why would a regulator like us would have to take action? RBI governor Shaktikanta Das had said. However, the central bank said that the action was taken against Paytm Payments Bank and the Paytm app will not be impacted. "Just one clarification, this particular action is against Paytm Payments Bank and not to be confused with Paytm App...App is not impacted by this action," RBI Deputy Governor Swaminathan J said on Thursday. Das said there are a lot of questions and concerns in the minds of people about PPBL, and the Reserve Bank will be coming out with a detailed FAQ (frequently asked questions) next week. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Friday has issued a notice to the Madhya Pradesh state government seeking reply within four weeks over the fire cracker factory blast incident in Harda on Tuesday. At least 11 persons were killed while 200 others were injured in the factory fire. (PTI file photo) At least 11 persons were killed while 200 others were injured in the factory fire. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. The notice was based on media reports citing no action taken by authorities despite knowing there were not enough fire safety equipment inspection by officials. The report added that the factory was operating despite previous incidents of a similar nature. The notices have been issued to the chief secretary and the director general of police (DGP), Madhya Pradesh calling for a detailed report in the matter within four weeks, said the NHRC notice. Also Read: 11 killed, several injured in blaze at firecracker factory It further said, The report is expected to include the status of the first information report (FIR), updated information on health and medical treatment provided to the victims of the blast and their aggrieved families. The commission would also like to know about the action against the erring and negligent officers and the steps taken to prevent recurrence of such incidents. Four days have passed since the incident, but four workers of the factory remain missing as the state disaster response personnel continue to clear the rubble. Harda divisional commissioner Pawan Sharma said, The rescue operation has been completed but still rubble is being cleared from the spot. However, there were protests at Harda over attempts being made to dispose twine bombs which were seized from other factories of the accused Rajesh Agrawal and Somesh Agrawal in an irrigational canal in Sirali area of Harda. The farmers demanded an inquiry into the matter and also the cleaning of the canal as the water is being used to irrigate the crop. A farmer of Amasel village Sonu Upadhyaya, 42, said, Three employees of municipal council brought thousands of twine bombs in their official vehicle and threw them in the Machak canal flowing here. We irrigate our fields with canal water. Despite this, these bombs containing gunpowder were brought here and disposed in clean water. When farmers confronted the employees, they fled from the spot, he said. Local revenue official Virendra Uike said that he had asked the employees to destroy the firecrackers, but not to throw them in the canal. I will look into the matter, he said. Hectic parleys and lobbying are underway within the Himachal Congress for the lone Rajya Sabha seat election for which will be held on February 27. Clamour, meanwhile, also continues to grow for former party president Sonia Gandhi contesting the polls from the state. Speculation about former Congress president Sonia Gandhi may taking the Rajya Sabha route from Himachal is rife. (HT File) The Rajya Sabha seat will fall vacant as the term of Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) national president Jagat Parkash Nadda expires on April 2. Congress, which boasts of 40 MLAs in the 68-member Himachal assembly, is poised to bag the seat. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Nominations are to be filed on February 15 as per the Election Commission of Indias Sunday notification. Congress local unit had earlier expressed its desire for Sonia Gandhi or her daughter and party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra making their way to the Parliaments Upper House from Himachal. Both Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) chief Pratibha Singh and chief minister (CM) Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu have batted for the 77-year-old Sonia Gandhi amid uncertainty of the Congress leader contesting the impending Lok Sabha elections from Rae Bareily a seat that she has held since 2004. Sonia and Priyanka Gandhi remain the first choice, only then other names are being considered, principal media advisor to CM Naresh Chauhan said. A five-term Lok Sabha MP, Sonia Gandhi has curtailed her involvement in active politics in recent years owing to poor health. Senior Congress leader Anand Sharma, who served as the deputy leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha from 2014 to 2022, for, one has found little favour. His association with the G-23 group, a loose bloc of dissenting leaders within the Congress, is being viewed as the major factor in him being sidelined from the conversation. Sharma, who hails from Shimla, however, remains hopeful of a return to Rajya Sabha. He has been lobbying hard while state Congress leaders assembled in Delhi recently to deliberate on the preparations for both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha polls. According to sources though, the choice of candidate for the Rajya Sabha seat has been left to the party high command. Another leader who has been a Rajya Sabha member from the state, former Pradesh Congress Committee president Viplove Thakur, is also testing the waters. Thakur, who was a member of the Upper House from 2006 to 12 and again from 2014 to 2020 is also camping in the national capital with her supporters. Leaders from the states tribal belt including Susheel Borangpa from Lahaul and Spiti has also held Rajya Sabha seats. He was a member from 1988 to 2000. Meanwhile, names of former PCC chief Kaul Singh Thakur and All India Congress Committee (AICC) secretary Asha Kumari are also doing rounds. BJP president Nadda had been elected to the Rajya Sabha unopposed in 2018. Hailing from Bilaspur district, Naddas political journey has seen him hold various significant positions within the BJP setup. Starting as the partys national general secretary, he eventually ascended to a cabinet minister role and later Rajya Sabha member. Himachal sends three members to the Rajya Sabha members. The other positions are currently held by BJPs Indu Goswami and Sikander Kumar. Party invites candidates for Lok Sabha polls as well The topic of candidates for the Rajya Sabha seat as well as the Lok Sabha was discussed in the first meeting of the screening committee chaired by former Union minister Bhakta Charan Das in New Delhi and attended by Sukhu, Pratibha Singh, partys state in-charge Rajeev Shukla and deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri. The PCC has invited applications on plain paper from party leaders, officials and workers for party tickets for the states four Lok Sabha seats. State Congress organisation general secretary Rajneesh Kimta according to the AICC said. Applications are being accepted from February 9 to 15. The application should be enclosed on plain paper with an amount of 10,000, he said, adding that the applications will be accepted at the state Congress headquarters, Rajiv Bhawan, till 5 pm on February 15. From the Kangra Lok Sabha seat, names of the former urban development minister Sudhir Sharma, a legislator from Nagrota Bagwan, and RS Bali, Himachal Tourism Development Corporation chairperson, came up for discussion. Finding a formidable candidate in Hamirpur is also an uphill task for the Congress, with BJP leader and Union information and broadcasting minister Anurag Thakur being a four-time winner. Congress discussed the names of the Sukhus wife Kamlesh Kumari and the deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri. Pratibha Singh and her son and public works department minister Vikramaditya Singh came up as possible candidates from the Mandi seat. From the Shimla Lok Sabha seat, names of first-time legislator from Kasauli, Vinod Sultanpuri, and former chairperson of the partys SC ST cell Amit Nanda are doing rounds. BJP holds all four Shimla, Hamirpur, Kangra and Mandi seats in the current Lok Sabha. The state cabinet on Friday approved the governors address for the budget session of Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha starting from February 14. Chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu presided over the meeting. CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu during the cabinet meeting in Shimla on Friday. (HT photo) The cabinet gave its nod to constitute a cabinet sub-committee under the chairmanship of deputy chief minister Mukesh Agnihotri to examine the legal aspects of the results held up on account of the police inquiry of the disbanded Himachal Pradesh Staff Selection Commission (HPSSC), Hamirpur. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Industries minister Harshwardhan Chauhan, revenue minister Jagat Singh Negi, PWD minister Vikramaditya Singh, and ayush minister Yadvinder Goma will be the members of this cabinet sub-committee. It also constituted a cabinet sub-committee under the chairmanship of revenue minister Jagat Singh Negi to review the revenue land allotted to different departments along with the land which has been leased out and is unutilised for a long. Rural development minister Anirudh Singh, PWD minister Vikramaditya Singh, and town and country planning minister Rajesh Dharmani will be the members of this cabinet sub-committee. It also decided to constitute a cabinet sub-committee under the chairmanship of rural development minister Anirudh Singh to review the unutilised vacant buildings of various departments. Town and country planning minister Rajesh Dharmani and ayush minister Yadvinder Goma will be its members. It accorded approval to open a sub-divisional office (civil) at Baddi in Solan district, to open block development offices at Patta in Solan, and at Palampur in Kangra. Approval was given by the cabinet to fill up five posts of Himachal Pradesh Administrative Services by direct recruitment based on the HPAS combined competitive examination. The cabinet gave its nod to fill up nine posts of tehsildar and 19 posts of naib tehsildar in the revenue department. The cabinet decided to create a new patwar circle at Jharmajri in Baddi along with the creation of requisite posts. It decided to fill up seven posts of different categories in the planning department through direct recruitment and fill up six posts of different categories for assistant tourism development offices at Kinnaur, Lahaul and Spiti, for smooth functioning of these offices. A decision was taken to fill up four posts of district child protection officers under the Mission Vatsalya Scheme. Two men were fatally shot inside a salon in the Najafgarh area of southwest Delhi on Friday, police reports said. The victims, Sonu and Ashish, both in their early 30s, suffered multiple gunshot wounds. The CCTV footage of the incident circulated on social media showed one of the victims pleading with the attackers before being shot at close range in the head.(X/Udit Kumar Singh) A purported CCTV footage of the incident circulated on social media, showing one of the victims pleading with the attackers before being shot at close range in the head. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. According to police, Sonu was shot once in the head, while Ashish sustained three bullet wounds to his head and one to his chest. Although initial investigations suggest personal animosity as a possible motive, authorities haven't ruled out the involvement of gangs, a police officer stated. The assailants fled the scene immediately after the attack, prompting panic in the area, and prompting a PCR call. Police have formed three teams to apprehend the suspects. Ashish had two prior criminal cases against him, and both victims were residents of Nagli Sakrawati in the Najafgarh area. In an unrelated incident on Thursday, a 22-year-old scrap dealer was targeted in a shooting incident in northeast Delhi's Shastri Park area, as per police reports. The victim, identified as Shahrukh, has a history of involvement in over 13 criminal cases, including robbery, snatching, and violations of the Arms Act. Authorities have filed an FIR under relevant sections of the IPC and Arms Act, and are actively pursuing the culprits. Speaking about the incident Deputy Commissioner of Police (northeast) Joy Tirkey said, On Thursday, they cornered Shahrukh. A verbal spat ensued between them and Farman shot him. Shahrukh sustained a gunshot injury in his right lower abdomen. He was rushed to GTB Hospital. His condition was stated to be stable. (With inputs from PTI) The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) razed one mosque, four temples and 77 graves in Sanjay Van on January 30 as part of a so-called anti-encroachment drive, according to a list of demolitions maintained by the land-owning agency. An anti-encroachment drive underway by DDA at Sanjay Van in January. (Arvind Yadav/HT Photo) Sanjay Van is a reserved forest, which is a part of the Southern Ridge. The Ridge Management Board has mandated that the ridge area be free all types of encroachment, said a DDA official, adding that the 82 structures were spread over 16 locations in the sprawling 780-acre reserved forest in Mehrauli. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. In 2020, a committee headed by the south district magistrate to assess encroachments in Sanjay Van suggested the removal of various illegal structures inside, said the official. Hindu and Muslim bodies were, two years ago, asked to furnish a list of religious constructions inside Sanjay Van, said the official, and when the decision was taken to demolish them, no objections were raised by the religious bodies in any of the meetings, said a second DDA official. The official also claimed that the religious bodies did not produce any historical record of the demolished structures. The demolitions, which include a 12th century shrine of Sufi saint Baba Haji Rozbih and the centuries-old Akhoondji Masjid, have drawn criticism from historians and activists, who have questioned the logic of tearing down edifices that have stood for nearly 900 years, instead of more recent constructions. The official cited above argued that Sanjay Van is part of the vast Southern Ridge and under DDAs jurisdiction, making it incumbent on the agency to remove encroachments in the reserved forest. In the 1960s, DDA purchased around 800 acres of land from different landowners. This eventually came to be known as Sanjay Van, which was declared a reserved forest in 1994, said the first official. The religious bodies were asked to provide details to the agencys religious committee, which was headed by the district magistrate (south). Police, revenue officials, and members of religious bodies were a part of this committee. Last December, the district conservator of forest (DCF) was also included in the committee as the encroached land comes under the ridge area, said the first official. The decision to remove the illegal structures was unanimous, said the second official. Removal of those illegal structures was unanimously approved by the religious committee, even in the minutes of the last meeting dated January 27, 2024. In compliance with it, a demolition programme was fixed by the horticulture department of the DDA on January 30, said the second official. To be sure, over 314 hectares of the Southern Ridge are encroached, according to reports submitted to the National Green Tribunal (NGT). These encroachments include multi-storey buildings and sprawling farmhouses, and authorities have done little to take them down, despite a series of court orders and observations. Irreversible loss A host of historians and activists have over the past week criticised DDAs demolitions and stressed that the loss of ancient heritage was irreversible. Sohail Hashmi, oral historian and heritage conservationist, said, These are centuries-old structures that have also been repaired along the way. They teach us so much about the evolving architectural style, building techniques, and construction material. The Akhoondji mosque was built using grey stone mined in the Aravallis, but it was repaired centuries later in 1853, during the end of the Mughal era, when the material used was often sandstone or bricks. You could see glimpses of this. With each of these structures, there is so much to learn. How do you decide that this heritage does not have to live? Read more: Parliament passes three bills on Jammu and Kashmir A DDA official argued that the 12th century shrine and the Akhoondji Masjid were not protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and said they do not touch structures that appear very old. Hashmi said that even if these structures are not protected, It is not for DDA to decide whether they should stay or not, it is ASIs. If these structures existed before Sanjay Van was declared a reserved forest in 1994, then how are they encroachments? DDA should have first identified the encroachments, served a notice to the management of these structures, and then taken it to the courts, he said. Meanwhile, the DDA official said that the land-owning body does not touch structures that are ASI protected. We dont even touch structures that appear very old such as Lal Kot (ruins of a fort) and Anang Tal (a 1,000-year-old baoli or reservoir), which are inside Sanjay Van. When we came across them, we informed ASI. They have been excluded from the anti-encroachment drive, said the DDA official. ASIs 1922 List of Muhammadan and Hindu Monuments, Volume III- Mahrauli Zila compiled by Maulvi Zafar Hasan, assistant superintendent of the ASI at the time, mentions that Lal Kot is the inner citadel of the fort of Rai Pithora, and that it was built in 1060 AD. The ASI list mentions that General Cunningham on the authority of two Hindu manuscripts ascribes Lal Kot to Anang Pal II, the 11th century Tomar king. Read more: AAP to decide candidates for Lok Sabha seats in 3 states on February 13 The ASI list mentions Anang Tal as a tank and ascribes this as well to the Tomar king. Praveen Singh, the superintending archaeologist of ASIs Delhi circle, told HT that while parts of Lal Kot are protected by the ASI, Anang Tal is not an ASI-protected structure. Singh said, Around two years ago, the lieutenant-governor had visited the area and had proposed that since this has links to a Tomar king, it should be given protection. The proposal was drafted but some people came forward with objections saying they had private property in the area. The proposal is still stuck at the ASI headquarters, and as of now, the baoli does not fall under ASI protection. As of now, it does not come under ASI, he said. (With inputs from Aheli Das) The Delhi government on Friday said it will soon float a one-time settlement scheme that will allow residents to clear their pending water bills after paying substantially reduced amounts that have been recalculated based on their usage pattern. This picture taken on September 20, 2019 shows drops of drinking water leaking from a tap at Mawsynram in the northeastern Indian state of Meghalaya. - Meghalaya, home to two of the wettest places on earth, is among the greenest states in India but it has rapidly lost its rich rainforests over the last few decades. (Photo by DIPTENDU DUTTA / AFP) / TO GO WITH Asia-environment-river-India-climate,SCENE by Abhaya Srivastava (AFP) The planned move will offer relief to over a million consumers who have complained of inflated water bills for several years, especially since the Covid-19 lockdown, when meter readings became erratic. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. According to officials of the Delhi Jal Board (DJB), around 1.6 million (40%) of their 2.7 million consumers have received incorrect water bills for years. A majority of residents have, as a result, stopped paying these bills entirely, significantly slashing the water utilitys revenues. The Delhi government has received numerous complaints to this effect as well, officials said. Chief minister Arvind Kejriwal speaking during an address on Friday said, I know that the water bills at this time are incorrect. I am coming up with a complete plan. Anyone who feels their water bill is messed up, need not pay it. We will fix it for everyone. His remarks came during a programme in Mayur Vihar Phase 3, where he laid the foundation stone for a new school building. The cabinet will discuss the water bill settlement by February 14, said state urban development minister Saurabh Bharadwaj, addressing a press briefing at the Delhi Secretariat. He said a new bill with the recalibrated overall amount will be sent to each consumer. Consumers can accept the one-time offer and pay the bill, clearing all previous arrears. Read more: Caught on camera: Two men shot dead inside salon in Delhis Najafgarh DJB officials said a plethora of problems impact the accuracy of water bills, including human errors by meter readers. Further, no manual meter readings were taken for much of 2020 and 2021, as Delhi remained locked down during the pandemic, said officials. Water minister Atishi said the scheme will benefit DJB as well. When a consumer feels their bill is higher than their consumption, they tend not to pay. Currently, 40% consumers are staring at inflated bills and DJB is also facing revenue collection challenges, said Atishi. The government expects that scheme will bring in a revenue of around 2,500 crore, officials said. To be sure, in June 2023, the Delhi government announced a similar one-time settlement scheme for pending water bills of around 1.17 million consumers, but stopped short of implementing the programme, citing administrative reasons. Bharadwaj and Atishi said the entire recalculation process will be scientific and rational. For instance, if a consumer gets an inflated bill of 1 lakh and based on their consumption pattern, the bill is recast to 7,000, the consumer need only pay 7,000, said Atishi. However, if the consumer doesnt pay the recalculated amount, they will have to pay the entire 1 lakh, she said. When asked about the deadline for payment, a Delhi government official said the finer details are being worked out. Atul Goyal, who heads Urja (united resident welfare associations joint action), an umbrella body of Delhis resident welfare associations, said while the scheme is welcome, the government must also fix the root cause of the problem. The meter reading system is poor and irregular. Either the meters are faulty, or the meter readers do not visit homes, or they feed incorrect readings in the system. If the government fixes these problems, it will save people a lot of hardships. Read more: World book fair to begin on Feb 10 in Delhi Atishi said the scheme will continue for four months. To avail of this scheme, consumers are required to have functional water meters. Those with dysfunctional meters will have to get the meters replaced, she said. Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Virendra Sachdeva called the plan a pre-poll gimmick. The Kejriwal government brings in a scheme to settle water bills before every election, but the benefits never reach the public, he said. They should introduce a plan where a consumer need only pay 7% to 10% of the pending amount, said Sachdeva. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the People's Council of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov has sent a congratulatory letter to the President of the Azerbaijan Republic Ilham Aliyev on the occasion of his victory in the presidential election, Trend reports. Will be updated Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday said the Indian Army is the symbol of pride for 140 crore Indians. He said no Indian doubts the bravery and might of the Army as it has a golden history. As per the CM, Indian soldiers set an ideal example of protecting and serving the country during war and peace without caring for their lives. Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath at an event organised at 11th Gorkha Rifles Regimental Centre in Lucknow. (HT photo) They have always protected the unity, integrity and sovereignty of India by living in difficult conditions at inaccessible places, Yogi added. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. He said the Gorkha Rifles has the distinction of being the first regiment to be formed after Indias independence. Yogi Adityanath expressed these views at Kranti Shaurya Samaroh organised at 11th Gorkha Rifles Regimental Centre here. The CM was overwhelmed after watching the glorious moment of indomitable courage of the Indian Army on the occasion. He also honoured brave women and congratulated the centre on successful completion of its 75 years. U.P. land of great revolutionaries The CM said Uttar Pradesh is the land of great revolutionaries, including Mangal Pandey, Rani Lakshmibai, Chandrashekhar Azad, Pt Ramprasad Bismil, Thakur Roshan Singh, Ashfaqulla Khan and Veer Abdul Hamid. Gorkhas show their bravery not through words but through their heroic actions during deployment on the border. The brave soldiers of the Gorkha Rifles, Lucknow, have registered their names in golden letters, the CM added. He said the 11th Gorkha Rifles of brave and valiant soldiers is in Lucknow. Many wars have been fought since its establishment. After coming to Lucknow in 1983, this regiment did not look back, the CM added. This regiment has given the country brave soldiers like Captain Manoj Pandey. This regiment has also given the country the tradition of two CDS and many generals. It is an occasion to remember the soldiers of 11 Gorkha Rifles who defended the motherland with supreme sacrifice, Yogi said. Govt committed to welfare of soldiers, brave women The CM said the state government is working with commitment for the welfare of serving, retired soldiers and brave women. The state government has also made arrangements for ex gratia of 50 lakh and government jobs for the families of soldiers who have sacrificed their lives for the country, he added. The state government is carrying out the construction work of the states fifth Sainik School in Gorakhpur on a war footing. PM Narendra Modi has started a campaign to establish 100 new Sainik Schools in the country, Yogi said. India achieving self-reliance in defence production Yogi said today programmes are going ahead for the youth to join the army. The PM has established the National Defence University for education and training of brave sons. One of its campuses has already started in Lucknow, he added. Till the construction of the permanent building, the campus is being operated at Dr Shakuntala Misra National Rehabilitation University. Today, India is achieving the goal of self-reliance in the field of defence production under PMs leadership, he added. The arrest and jailing of Rev Fr Dominic Pinto, director of Navintha Pastoral Centre, in Rendwa Palhari (Dewa Road), Barabanki district, recently, was based on misinformation and simple distortion of realities, the Catholic Diocese of Lucknow stated in a release issued on Friday. It described him as an innocent person. For representation only (HT File Photo) Ten people, including the priest of a church, were arrested for allegedly attempting to convert over 200 Hindus to Christianity through allurement in Barabanki on Monday evening. The accused were booked under various sections of UP Prohibition of Unlawful Religious Conversion Act, 2021, and sent to jail after being produced before a competent court on Tuesday, said police. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Spokesperson of the Catholic Diocese of Lucknow, Rev Fr Donald De Souza said, Rev Fr Dominic Pinto is the director of the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, where many individuals or groups from the local, regional and state come and conduct various seminars, study sessions or meetings. The Navintha Pastoral Centre, with a proper infrastructure and space for meetings, is provided for such groups on request. In the present case, a group of people with their pastors requested the facilities of Navintha to conduct a seminar and meeting on February 5 and the same was granted. He said that false information was circulated around the area on the meeting and some fundamentalist religious forces, led by their leaders, barged on the campus and accused the Centre of conversion of Hindus to Christianity, an accusation which was thoroughly false. The diocese said that Rev Fr Dominic Pinto, as director of the Centre, was in no way responsible for this meeting but was only providing the facilities, as was the normal practice in the past years. But sadly, Rev Fr Dominic Pinto was accused of holding the meeting and was further accused of conversion of the people who had gathered for the meeting. This, we declare, is a thorough misrepresentation of facts and full and complete falsification of facts! We declare that Rev Fr. Dominic Pinto was in no way involved, either in calling the people for the meeting or conducting the same but was only the Director, responsible for the material and external arrangements for board and lodge of the group members. The Centre has never been used for any conversion at any time, he said. The diocese demands that all false accusations of conversion et al be withdrawn from the complaint and truth be told before the concerned Courts by those who have accused him of falsehoods and false facts, the statement read. From a non-descript pilgrim centre to a boom town for the hotel industry, Ayodhyas fate and skyline are in for a mega change in the hospitality sector, driven by the inauguration of the Ram temple on January 22 and fuelled by the rush of devotees ever since. The temple town Ayodhya (Hindustan Times) Witnessing phenomenal transformation, Ayodhya, which has been in global focus, will get a further boost after 4233 crore projects for the construction of at least 142 hotels, including luxury ones, are launched at the groundbreaking ceremony that the Uttar Pradesh government proposes to hold in Lucknow on February 19. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. The tourism department had signed the memorandums of understanding (MoUs) for these hotels with private players at the Uttar Pradesh Global Investors Summit held in Lucknow on February 10-12 last year. The hotels to be built in Ayodhya will be of all sizes, ranging from 200-room capacity ones to budget hotels of 20-50 room capacity. Hindustan Times has a copy of the documents giving details of proposed investments and groups lining up for the same in Ayodhya. According to the details accessed by HT, Sri RamKripa Hotels Pvt Limited and BEL will build 200-room hotels each in Ayodhya with an investment of 150 crore each. Sun Infraengineering Pvt Ltd has signed an MoU of 175 crore with the state government for a 150-room hotel project in Ayodhya. This figure of 142 hotels (will) scale up by the time the groundbreaking ceremony takes place, the Uttar Pradesh governments principal secretary, tourism, Mukesh Meshram said. Two mega hotels with a capacity of 200 rooms each, 20 hotels with a capacity of 100-175 rooms each, 47 hotels with 50-99 rooms each and 65 hotels with less than 50 rooms each will come up in Ayodhya. Big hotels, budget hotels, resorts, permanent tented accommodations, Swiss cottages and ashrams will come up in Ayodhya, Meshram said. Ayodhyas rapid growth trajectory is not only changing its image of a mofussil town but bringing this temple town into the league of fast-developing cities, said Vipul Varshney, the architect who has designed the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, Ayodhya Dham. Tata Groups Indian Hotels Company Ltd is also in talks with the state government for its hotel to come up in Ayodhya, said a senior official of the state government. The state government may sign an MoU with the Tata Group at the groundbreaking ceremony, the official said. Some luxury hotels have already started operations in Ayodhya. The Park Inn by the Radisson group is one of them. Clarks Inn Express is another. Several big hotels have come up in the recent past on the Ayodhya-Lucknow bypass road, offering services like any other luxury hotel in a metropolis like Delhi or Mumbai. Ayodhyas fate began changing after the November 9, 2019, judgment of the Supreme Court that paved the way for construction of Ram temple. This change got further push after Prime Minister Narendra Modi presided over bhoomi pujan of Ram Mandir on August 5, 2020. Modi presided over the consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla on January 22 this year, marking the grand opening of the Ram temple. As part of Ayodhyas development push, the state government has already approved New Ayodhya Township or the Green Field Township spanning 1407 acres on both sides of the Lucknow-Gorakhpur highway. Described as the most ambitious project of the Yogi Adityanath government, it has been conceptualised to de-congest Ayodhya. The state governments housing and urban planning department will execute this project that will be extended by 442 acres in the second phase. Modi had launched the project during his Ayodhya visit on December 30 when he also inaugurated the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport Ayodhya Dham and the Ayodhya Dham Junction railway station. AYODHYA HOTEL PROJECTS IN PIPELINE Total investment: 4233 crore 142 Hotels to come up (Final figures might do up when groundbreaking ceremony takes place) PKH Ventures Ltd: 600 crore Bhardwaj Global Infraventures Limited: 176 crore Sri Ram Kripa Hotels Pvt Ltd: 155 crore Bel: 150 crore Sun Infraengineering Pvt Ltd: 150 crore Panache Dream World LLP: 140 crore Gyan Prakash Hotels: 125 crore The Ayodhya Grand Vaidik Hotel: 125 crore Source: State tourism dept Bareilly remained heavily fortified on Friday amid stray incidents of stone pelting after violence erupted in Uttarakhands Haldwani over the demolition of an illegally built madrasa the previous night, said senior officials in the police department. Supporters of Islamic cleric Tauqeer Raza Khan gather on roads after a 'jail bharo' call given by him over the Gyanvapi mosque issue, in Bareilly, Friday. (PTI) Police and paramilitary personnel were deployed in large numbers after some religious leaders, including the chief of Ittehad-e-Millat Council (Bareilly Sharif) Maulana Tauqir Raza, were detained as a precautionary measure. They were later released. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. On Thursday, Raza had given a call for Jail Bharo asking his supporters to offer their arrest to the police over the Gyanvapi mosque row. Meanwhile, the demolition of the madrasa in Haldwani added fuel to the fire as hundreds of people attempted to rally behind Raza and gathered after the Friday prayers around 2.30 pm. Markets in different parts of the city remained shut since the morning. Uttar Pradesh on alert Uttar Pradesh director general of police (DGP) Prashant Kumar said an alert was issued in the state after the violence in Haldwani. He said all district police chiefs had been asked to remain cautious, and that deployments were in place in the districts bordering Uttarakhand. We had planned deployments and restrictions in advance due to which no major incident was reported. Everything is peaceful now. The deployments, however, will continue following the tension triggered on Friday, Bareilly zone additional DG PC Meena told media persons. Bareilly senior superintendent of police (SSP) Ghule Sushil Chandra Bhan said stray incidents of stone pelting and sloganeering were reported at the Shyam Ganj market under Baradari police station limits of the city. He added notorious elements thrashed three youngsters near Sailani locality in the same area, and two of them suffered minor injuries. He said the situation had been brought under control even as flag march was taken out in sensitive areas to instill a sense of security among the locals. He added some anti-social elements were trying to disturb the peace and communal harmony in Bareilly. We are also keeping watch on social media and people are suggested to refrain from posting anything objectionable on the issue, he noted. A man was critically injured after an ambulance ferrying the mortal remains of a person slammed a parked truck near Dayal Gate on Shaheed Path in Lucknow in the early hours of Friday. (Sourced) Officials said the collision was so strong that the ambulances front section was badly damaged. While the ambulance driver suffered minor injuries, a caretaker was said to be in critical condition and hospitalised at the Lohia Hospital. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. The accident took place when the truck driver was replacing a flat tyre. The ambulance driver, Vibhor, was rescued by a joint team of police and firefighters, said SP Sinha, fire station officer, Gomti Nagar. The ambulance was ferrying the mortal remains from Delhi to Siddharthnagar. The truck, laden with gravel and mortar, was going from Jhansi to Gorakhpur. Due to the accident, vehicular movement on Shaheed Path was affected for half-hour. A group of children cheerfully playing in the open field on a bright sunny Thursday afternoon suddenly turned melancholic when one of them only three was charred to death. For representation only (HT File Photo) The incident happened in Semrapeetpur village of Gosainganj when the toddler was playing on top of a scaffolding made with straw, which caught fire after the rest of the group set a bunch of straw alight. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Kunal, 3, died immediately, said Dinesh Chandra Mishra, SHO, Gosaiganj. The accident took place while children were playing and they set the fire to the straw under the scaffolding, in play, the SHO added. A police team reached the spot and sent the body for a post-mortem examination. The children are scared after the incident and are not in a position to tell anything, due to which, the police also did not interrogate, said police. Kunal, the son of a labourer, Sukhmilal, had gone to play in the field along with his elder brother Anmol, 5 and sister Khushi, 4, and other group of children on the scaffolding. Kunal climbed on the roof of the scaffolding built in the farm while his brothers and sisters started playing with the village children below. The other group of children did not know about his presence on the top and they lit the straw below. The fire spread quickly to the top, burning Kunal. Kunal got trapped in the flames and could not get down. The children ran away in fear. On the other hand, people working in the fields saw the scaffolding burning and ran and tried to extinguish the fire. But by then the scaffolding had burnt to ashes, killing Kunal. According to the family, the deceaseds father often sleeps at the scaffolding at night, made to scare stray cows, to guard the crops. Muslim community members offered Namaz under enhanced security measures around the city mosques on Friday and prayed for peace in the country. For representation only (HT FIle Photo) Senior police officials, including DIG Anand Kulkarni, divisional commissioner Anil Dhingra, district magistrate Krishna Karunesh along with SP city Krishna Kumar Bishnoi were mobile in highly sensitive areas and heavy force was deployed at Madina Masjid, Jama Masjid Road, Ghasi Katra and Rajghat area. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. DIG Anand Kulkarni stated that the police was maintaining vigil on each activity and was on high alert in Maharajganj near Nepal Border. A rush of Namazis at Shahmaroof, Gorakhnath, Radoolpur was witnessed, and cleric Mufti Motiur Rahman appealed to people to maintain peace to defy the conspiracy of certain forces to disrupt peace. He also condemned police high-handedness in the demolition of the madarsa in Haldwani. Mufti Akhtar Hussain vehemently condemned the Uttarakhand government for imposing uniform civil code and said that it was against the spirit of the constitution and an encroachment on the rights of the minorities granted by it. Police force was on maximum alert in towns near the Indo-Nepal Border during Friday Namaz as there are several madarsas along the border. Similarly, in Kushinagar district, police personnel were patrolling Hata and Kasya towns to maintain peace. In a landmark ruling, the labour commissioner Pune has directed a Baner-based information technology (IT) company to pay maternity leave benefits to one of its HR managers. The decision came after the HR manager approached a labour court, alleging that the company had unjustly removed her from her position to avoid providing her maternity leave benefits. The case has garnered attention for its implications on maternity rights in the workplace. (REPRESENTATIVE PHOTO) The case has garnered attention for its implications on maternity rights in the workplace. HR manager, Krutakshi Jain, filed a complaint against her employer, accusing the latter of discriminatory practices. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Jain claimed that the company terminated her employment on February 24, 2023, shortly after she informed it of her pregnancy, a move she believed was aimed at circumventing the companys obligation to provide maternity leave benefits. According to the complainant, she informed the company on February 14, 2023 about her pregnancy status but instead of providing her maternity benefits, the company terminated her services on February 24, 2023. When the complainant asked the reason behind the termination, the company did not give any reason. The labour commissioner, upon reviewing the case, found merit in the HR managers allegations and ruled in her favour. The directive not only orders the IT company to provide maternity benefits (monetary) to Jain but also pay a medical bonus to her within seven days. The ruling underscores the importance of upholding maternity rights in the workplace, and sends out a strong message against any attempts to deny such benefits to expecting mothers. It also serves as a reminder to employers regarding their legal obligations towards pregnant employees and the consequences of failing to adhere to these obligations. The decision has been welcomed by the Forum for Information Technology Employees (FITE) that advocates the rights of IT employees. Pavanjeet Mane, president, FITE, said, This is much needed. Many companies think that by removing female employees during their pregnancy, they can deny maternity benefits. But in such cases, we have the option to approach the labour commissioner to get justice. Mane said the landmark case would help raise the morale of female employees facing such issues. The said employees can approach FITE in such cases.. Ace actor Mark Ruffalo has become the latest celebrity to receive his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in a ceremony on Thursday. The Poor Things actor appeared at the special occasion with his wife Sunrise Coigney and two of their three kids Bella, 18, and Keen, 22. Odette, 16, People reported. (Also Read: Robert Downey Jr. and Mark Ruffalo admit they didn't understand Marvel dialogue: We would just drive each other insane) Mark Ruffalo gets his star on Hollywood Walk of Fame Mark's acceptance speech My kids, Bella and Keen and Odette, you taught me so much about being a parent, being a man, being an actor, and this is your star, my whole family, in ways that you won't understand for some time, Mark expressed his gratitude to his family in the acceptance speech. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Jennifer Garner's tribute Mark's close friend and actor Jennifer Garner was also present at the ceremony. She gave a huge shoutout to Mark. "How lucky are we to have been in a movie that kids are still dressing up as for Halloween?" said Garner in her speech, referring to their 2004 romantic comedy 13 Going On 30. "I wonder if my colleagues Reese Witherspoon (Just Like Heaven, 2005), Jennifer Aniston (Rumor Has It, 2005), Gwyneth (Paltrow - Thanks For Sharing, 2012), Keira Knightley (Begin Again, 2013) I wonder if they would agree that Mark owes this rom-com success to the scruffy hair, the untucked, cute button down, both of which became the norm for cute guys everywhere for the next 20 years," she added. "I wonder if these esteemed ladies enjoyed Mark's anxiety as much as I did?" she continued. "I wonder if he tried to drop out of their films like he did out of ours after the first rehearsal of the Thriller dance, where Mark went from kind of shocked that we actually had to do this to antsy to deathly quiet to 'Bro, this is not for me'. "To work with you, Mark, is to love you, I don't care what anyone says," Garner said. Mark is the 2,772nd person to receive a star on the famed street. He also received a tribute from director David Fincher, who he worked with in the 2007 crime drama Zodiac. Entertainment! Entertainment! Entertainment! Click to follow our Whatsapp Channel Your daily dose of gossip, films, shows, celebrities updates all in one place. Crime thrillers as a genre always work well with the audience but there are some caveats. The lead actors performance and an engaging storyline are important to a crime thrillers success given the high number of web series and films that release in this genre each year. Director Darwin Kuriakoses Anweshippin Kandethum, set in the early 1990s, follows the investigative thriller pattern and stars Tovino Thomas as SI Anand Narayanan. (Also read: Lal Salaam movie review: Aishwarya Rajinikanth back with a bang) Tovino Thomas in a still from Anweshippin Kandethum. The premise Its a moment of pride for Anand Narayanans parents when he joins a village in Kottayams district as sub-inspector in 1993. When a young girl, Lovely Mathan, goes missing in the village, it is up to Anand and his team to unravel the truth. There are different communities at loggerheads in the village and Anands police seniors force him into dropping the investigation into a Christian priest. The police is under pressure to find the murderer and try to frame another man. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Anand is sidelined, humiliated and given menial jobs by his superiors as he is over enthusiastic in solving the case. He is disturbed with the issue and decides to covertly investigate the case unofficially. His final report to the SP is lauded but things go horribly wrong for Anand and his image is tarnished in the police force and public. After a period of suspension, he and his team are assigned a six-year old cold case in Cheruvalli. Is Anand able to solve both the cases? Does he manage to succeed as a police officer and gain his peers respect? What works Writer Jinu Abraham has actually given the audience two films in one as the first half related to one case and the second half to another. Abraham is known for his thriller stories (Kaduva and Adam Joan) and in this film too he keeps the viewer engaged for the most part. The first half of the film proceeds at a brisk pace while the second half considerably slows down. There is a change in narrative style from the first half to the second and as a whodunit, it is engaging for the most part. The film is more a procedural drama that takes us through how Anand finds the clues to solve the murders. The audience may not emotionally connect with the victims or the police but bringing a murderer to justice at all cost is something that will resonate. Popular Tamil music director Santhosh Narayan has scored the music for this Malayalam film and has done a neat job. Tovino Thomas gives a strong performance This is Tovino Thomas fourth film where he essays the role of a cop and here he has downplayed his character a lot. His strong performance comes through his physicality and movements rather than loud dialogues and this is refreshing. In the first half, Tovino is a newbie police officer who is trampled upon by his superiors and in the second, he effortlessly becomes the leader of his team. Tovino is able to showcase both these different facets beautifully on screen. There are many good actors, like Indrans, Shammi Thilakan, Siddique, Harisree Ashokan and Baburaj, who support Tovino in smaller roles. Anweshippin Kandethum is director Darwin Kuriakoses debut film and he has managed to deliver a decent crime thriller in his first attempt. Entertainment! Entertainment! Entertainment! Click to follow our Whatsapp Channel Your daily dose of gossip, films, shows, celebrities updates all in one place BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Azerbaijan resolutely rejects and condemns the statement of Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry said, Trend reports. The ministry made the remark, commenting on Mirzoyan's statement addressed to Azerbaijan at the ceremony dedicated to Armenias accession to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court. "We resolutely reject and condemn the statement targeting Azerbaijan that was delivered by Ararat Mirzoyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia, during the ceremony dedicated to the accession of Armenia to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) on 8 February 2024. This speech once again demonstrates that Armenias accession to the Rome Statute is yet another attempt to exploit such institutions for its groundless allegations, malign actions, hate propaganda, disinformation and misinterpretation of international law. The failure of international community to prevent and end Armenias aggression against Azerbaijan and its occupation of our territories for almost 30 years, mass atrocities and crimes against humanity, continuing warmongering statements and actions by Armenia, have only contributed to this countrys sense of impunity. Armenias continuing claims against the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Azerbaijan, as well as inciting and promoting racial hatred against Azerbaijanis, not only contravenes the international law norms and principles, but also the commitments of Armenia under the provision order of the International Court of Justice of 7 December 2021 in the case Azerbaijan v. Armenia. It is important that the international community remember and insist on accountability for the war crimes committed by Armenia during its aggression, the tens of thousands of civilians brutally killed, large-scale ethnic cleansing that it carried out and thousands of cities, towns and villages that it razed to the ground with the sole purpose of fulfilling its unlawful territorial claims based on fabricated historical narratives and racist ideology. Azerbaijan will continue its efforts to end impunity for serious violations of international law, promote the rule of law and build, strengthen and sustain peace, security and stability in the region," the statement reads. Gender bias in the workplace remains a persistent challenge, with women often facing stereotypes and misconceptions that hinder their professional progress. Women are often perceived as less capable than their male counterparts and their views are not considered as important in the decision-making process. While some companies focus on creating inclusive practices, women continue to battle biases as they navigate their careers. Gender bias(Shutterstock) Apart from the proverbial glass ceiling, women face a plethora of biased behaviour, such as unconscious biases that affect decision-making processes, bias during recruitment, performance evaluations and promotion decisions, and micro-aggressive behaviour. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. According to the LinkedIn Opportunity Index 2021, gender equality may have improved over the years, but India's working women still contend with the strongest gender bias across the Asia Pacific (APAC) region and continue to experience the impact of gender inequality on career development. The report further stipulated that womens participation in Indias workforce is one of the lowest in the world, at under 28%, and has been steadily declining. In addition to gender biases, women encounter other stereotypes, like being labelled as overly emotional or facing nonconscious biases that deem them unfit for certain, especially senior or management, positions. When women are assertive and take charge, they may be labelled as "difficult to work with", facing backlash and resistance. On the other hand, when women adopt a collaborative and nurturing approach, they risk being perceived as weak and lacking leadership qualities, and are therefore not taken seriously. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) estimates that equal participation of women in the workforce will increase Indias gross domestic product (GDP) manifold. A McKinsey Global Institute study calculated that the economic impact of achieving gender equality in India is estimated to be $700 billion of added GDP by the year 2025. Dealing with biases against women requires a long-term commitment and a multi-faceted approach. To create more equitable workplaces, it is crucial to challenge gender biases, promote inclusive leadership, provide equal opportunities for advancement, and nurture supportive environments that value collaboration and assertiveness equally. By fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, these stereotypes can be dismantled, enabling women to thrive in leadership positions and break through barriers. Addressing biases against women in the corporate world requires a comprehensive approach that involves both systemic changes within organisations and individual efforts. Here are some strategies that organisations can employ to deal with biases against women: Diversity and inclusion initiatives: Establishing robust diversity and inclusion programmes is crucial for creating an inclusive work environment. This involves setting clear diversity goals, implementing policies that promote gender equality, and fostering a culture that values and respects all employees. Companies can create employee resource groups, mentorship programmes and leadership development initiatives specifically tailored to support women in their career progression. Bias awareness and training: Conducting bias awareness and nonconscious bias training programmes can help employees recognise and challenge their own biases. These sessions raise awareness about common biases against women and provide strategies to mitigate them. It's important to ensure that training is ongoing and reinforced regularly to encourage long-term behavioural change. Equal pay and promotion practices: Companies should establish transparent and equitable pay structures to ensure that women are compensated fairly. Conducting regular pay audits and addressing any identified gender pay gaps are crucial steps to take. Additionally, implementing fair and unbiased promotion practices, such as standardised criteria and objective performance evaluations, can help mitigate biases in career advancement opportunities. Flexible work policies: Offering flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options, flexible hours or job-sharing opportunities, can benefit women who often face challenges related to work-life balance. Providing these options demonstrates a commitment to supporting employees' needs and can help retain and attract talent. Mentorship and sponsorship programmes: Creating formal mentorship and sponsorship programmes can provide women with guidance, support and opportunities for career growth. Mentors can offer advice, share experiences and help navigate organisational challenges. Sponsors, on the other hand, actively advocate for women's advancement, provide visibility and recommend them for promotions or high-profile projects. Representation in leadership: Actively striving for gender diversity in leadership positions is essential. Companies should set targets and work towards increasing the representation of women in senior management and board positions. Having diverse leadership teams brings different perspectives and experiences to decision-making processes, fostering an inclusive culture throughout the organisation. Safe reporting mechanisms: Establishing safe and confidential reporting mechanisms for incidents of bias, discrimination or harassment is crucial. It encourages employees to come forward with their concerns, and ensures that appropriate actions are taken to address any issues promptly and fairly. Engaging men as allies: Engaging men as allies in the fight against biases is important for effecting meaningful change. Encouraging male leaders and employees to actively support gender equality initiatives, challenge biases and promote inclusive behaviours helps create a more inclusive culture within the organisation. Regular evaluation and accountability: Regularly evaluating the progress and impact of diversity and inclusion initiatives is essential. Companies should measure key metrics, such as representation, pay equity and employee satisfaction, to assess their efforts and identify areas for improvement. Holding leaders accountable for creating an inclusive workplace environment reinforces the importance of diversity and inclusion at all levels. By implementing these strategies, companies can create a more inclusive and equitable work environment that enables women to thrive and contribute to their fullest potential. Women should be encouraged and empowered to lead in various forms, challenging societal preconceptions about leadership and showcasing their capabilities, regardless of gender-based expectations. To encourage women to take up leadership roles, organisations must focus on developing and investing in leadership skill programmes and mentoring sessions to prepare and support aspiring female leaders. Addressing gender biases will require collective efforts and a commitment to promoting an inclusive workplace culture. By advocating for change, employees/individuals can help create a more equitable and supportive work environment for women and future generations. This article is authored by Antony Alex, founder & CEO, Rainmaker. In April last year, actor Deepika Padukone took a trip to the Land of the Thunder Dragon, Bhutan to celebrate the release and success of her film Pathaan (2023), where she starred alongside Shah Rukh Khan. After taking a much-needed break from her chock-a-block schedule, upon returning to India from this mountainous country, she took to her social media to share some snippets from her relaxing and calming vacation. Also read: Deepika Padukone shares pics from Bhutan trip Deepika Padukone during her Bhutan trip(Instagram) Amid undertaking some arduous treks and visiting some scenic spots, Deepika Padukone also indulged in some delicious food. During a recent interview, the actor spoke about her newfound love for a Bhutanese dish, Ema Datshi, that she had tried during her visit to the country. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Deepika Padukone during her Bhutan trip(Instagram) A simple cheesy and spicy stew, this Bhutanese staple is hearty and is known as the national dish of Bhutan. Taking to us Chef Sonam Tshering, a professor at the Royal Institute for Tourism and Hospitality in Bhutan, shares insights on Ema Datshi. "Ema means chilli and datshi means cheese in the Dzongkha language. It is among the most famous dishes in Bhutanese cuisine, shares Tshering. How to make Ema Datshi A traditional Bhutanese feast featuring Ema Datshi(Facebook) To make this dish, slice the green chillies lengthwise. To control the spice, keep the stems intact and remove some of the seeds. In a pan, heat oil and saute onions and garlic till it become translucent and then add the chillies. Cook it is soft but not completely cooked through. Now add cheese cubes or cheese slices to the pan, and stir continuously until it melts and forms a creamy consistency. Let it simmer for a few minutes and allow the flavours to mesh together. Season the stew with salt and serve warm. Breakdown the dish This dish gets its spice from dry or fresh hot chilli peppers, which makes it suitable for the Bhutan winters that can get as low as -1C. Bhutan being a highland country, one does not always have access to fresh vegetables, especially during the winter. So, Bhutanese dry their produce to preserve it, which allows them to consume all kinds of fruits and vegetables well into the thick of winter. The chef adds, Bhutanese people consume chillies as a vegetable instead of spice [that is added in moderate amounts to food]. The heat from the chillies is mellowed out with the cheese, making it one of the favourite dish for a lot of people. Spicy ema datshi served with momos (Instagram) In Bhutanese cuisine, salt is used salt sparingly. Sliced cheese is also used as an alternative and traditionally, cheese is made from local cow or yak milk. Tshering explains, Using these local cheeses completely changes the taste of the ema datshi. It can be served with any Indian bread or rice, and it goes well with pasta too. Different types of Datshi While Ema Datshi is a fan favourite, there are other types of datshi too. Tshering shares that many types of dishes are made with cheese - when made with mushroom and cheese, it is called Shamuu Datshi and when the datshi has beans, it is known as Shemchung Datshi. On the other hand, Kewa Datshi is a dish that features potatoes with cheese. He explains, The main difference between these dishes is that when we add any other vegetable such as mushrooms, potatoes or beans, we add less chillies than the actual ema datshi. Actor Annusriya Tripathi started her career with modelling and entered the Tollywood industry to reach her goal Bollywood. Instead of moving to Mumbai, she went to Hyderabad where she prepared herself and got an offer for her debut film. Annusriya Tripathi(Instagram) For any aspiring actor the dream is to be seen on silver screen in some big productions blockbuster release. I too have that dream but its not easy for outsiders like me. So, after my studies, I shifted from Bengaluru to Hyderabad to learn the craft and get a break in the Tollywood industry, says the actor. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Once there I started doing workshops and auditions. Meanwhile, I kept preparing and worked with Samaharaa Theatre Group run by Rathna Shekhar Reddy. After a series of screentests, my director Yata Satyanarayana made join workshops for the film Razakar: The Silent Genocide of Hyderabad with Dr Harishchandra Rayala. I play wife of the Nizam played by actor Makarand Deshpande. Its a very strong role, shares Tripathi. She also been the finalist of Miss Indias Jharkhand leg. I have been getting many offers, but I am waiting for my film that will be out in the next few months. I chose to start from Tollywood and hope it will open the Bollywood door for me. When I started in 2019, things were different, but it is one industry and with my big release I hope production houses in Mumbai will identify my talent and give me a break, she adds. The actor says, It was initially conceived as Telugu project but eventually seeing its magnitude and the context it was shot in Urdu-Hindi and will be released a pan-India film in multiple languages. The premise is a dark past from the history before Hyderabad became a part of India so its very relevant subject. Besides, Makarand sir we also have actors Tej Sapru and Raj Arjun in frontline roles. Tripathi credits her mother to be her inspiration as she has also been a model. I have been a bright student. I cracked civil services exams but couldnt clear the interview. Even now, I am pursuing law. I believe in adding skills which will also help me in my craft, concludes Tripathi. A recent study from the University of California, San Francisco (US) found that people with depression have higher body temperatures, suggesting that lowering their body temperatures may be beneficial for their mental health. According to a new study, body temperature has been linked to depression(Photo: Shutterstock) The research, which was published in Scientific Reports, doesn't indicate whether depression causes a person's body temperature to rise or vice versa. It's also unclear if the higher body temperature seen in depressed individuals is due to a decreased ability to self-cool, an increase in heat production from metabolic processes, or a mix of the two. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Researchers examined information from over 20,000 participants worldwide, who self-reported their body temperatures and depressive symptoms on a daily basis while wearing a device that detects body temperature. The seven-month study that began in early 2020 includes data from 106 countries. Ashley Mason, PhD, the study's lead author, an associate professor of psychiatry at the UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, said the results provided insight into the potential mechanisms underlying a unique depression therapy approach. Hot tubs and saunas have been shown to lower depression, according to a small body of existing, causal research. It might be the result of triggering the body to self-cool, for instance, by sweating. Mason, said, "Ironically, heating people up actually can lead to rebound body temperature lowering that lasts longer than simply cooling people down directly, as through an ice bath." He added, What if we can track the body temperature of people with depression to time heat-based treatments well? "To our knowledge, this is the largest study to date to examine the association between body temperature - assessed using both self-report methods and wearable sensors - and depressive symptoms in a geographically broad sample," said Mason. " Former Congress leader Milind Deora who recently joined Shiv Sena -- the Eknath Shinde faction -- said it is unfortunate that the shocking murder of Abhishek Ghosalkar is being politicised. Mumbai is the safest city in the country and Abhishek Ghosalkar's murder by Mauris Noronha who later shot himself was the result of "an internal party dispute", Milind Deora said. "I believe there is an urgent need to review arms licenses granted to political workers & I urge @MumbaiPolice to take strict action against those behind this incident," the Shiv Sena leader said. Abhishek Ghosalkar was a former corporator of Mumbai -- from Uddhav Sena faction. As the opposition in Maharashtra raised questions over Maharashtra's law and order situation, Sanjay Raut shared a photo of Mauris Noronha with chief minister Eknath Shinde. Family members of Uddhav Sena leader Abhishek Ghosalkar mourning ahead of his last rites on Friday.(PTI) Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Uddhav Sena leader Abhishek Ghosalkar killed on camera: Here are 10 latest updates 1. Mauris Noronha's bodyguard Amarendra Mishra has been arrested by the Mumbai crime branch. The gun which Mauris used to shoot Ghosalkar and then himself belonged to Mishra. It was made at an ordnance factory. 2. Mauris Noronha's wife said Mauris had a grudge against Ghosalkar and used to believe that Ghosalkar implicated him in a rape case. 3. Mauris Noronha spent at least five months in jail in connection wit the alleged rape case. His wife said that after coming out he used to say he would not spare Ghosalkar. 4. Noronha and Ghosalkar apparently buried the hatchet and were photographed together for many posters but it was all Noronha's plan to gain Ghosalkar's trust. 5. Uddhav Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Friday shared a photo of Mauris Noronha with Eknath Shinde and said Mauris went to Shinde's house and was invited to join the Shinde faction. 6. Maharashtra minister Uday Samant showed clippings from Saamana, the Sena mouthpiece that the Uddhav faction runs, where Mauris was clicked with Uddhav faction leaders. 7. Uddhav Sena workers gathered outside the residence of Abhishek Ghosalkar to attend the last rites. 8. The murder shook Mumbai as it took place during a Facebook Live in which both Mauris and Abhishek took part, spoke about joining hands for the development of the IC colony. 9. The Facebook live ended with Mauris firing bullets into Ghosalkar from his bodyguard's pistol. Then Mauris rushed to the mezzanine floor of his office and shot himself in the head. 10. Heavy police force was deployed in the area and shops in the locality were shut. BSP chief Mayawati on Friday reacted to Bharat Ratna conferred on former PMs PV Narasimha Rao, Chaudhary Charan Singh and scientist MS Swaminathan, saying Dalit personalities were being ignored and disrespected. She was hinting at her demand for conferring the highest civilian honour on Dalit icon Kanshiram. BSP supremo Mayawati (HT File) In a post on X BSP supremo Mayawati wrote, All the personalities who have been honoured with Bharat Ratna by the present BJP government are welcome, but in this matter, it is not appropriate to disrespect and ignore especially the Dalit personalities. The government must pay attention to them also. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. After a long wait, Baba Saheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar was honoured with the title of Bharat Ratna by the government of Shri VP Singh. After that, the struggle done by respected Shri Kanshi Ram ji, the messiah of the Dalits and the neglected, in their interests is no less. He should also be honoured with Bharat Ratna," she added. Earlier too, the BSP had raised the demand to confer the honour to Kanshiram. In a post on X, BSP national coordinator Akash Anand said, The government of India should honour Kanshiram Saheb ji, the great leader of social change who gave political strength to crores of Dalits, exploited and minority communities of the country with the Bharat Ratna as soon as possible. Manyavar Saheb's contribution to empowering the people of the country socially and economically is incomparable. Kanshi Ram, a supporter of Bhimrao Ambedkar, died at the age of 72 in 2006. The recent announcement to confer the Bharat Ratna upon former Prime Ministers PV Narasimha Rao and Charan Singh, along with green revolution pioneer MS Swaminathan, has brought the total number of recipients of India's highest civilian honour to 53. This marks a notable increase, with five individuals receiving the award within 2024, the highest number awarded in a single year thus far. Prior to this, the record for the maximum number of Bharat Ratna awards given in a year was set in 1999, when four individuals were honoured with this prestigious recognition. NEW DELHI: The decision to honour former Prime Minister Chowdhury Charan Singh with the Bharat Ratna is politically significant. The announcement came amidst speculation that the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD), the party headed by his grandson Jayant, was about to break its ties with the Samajwadi Party (SP) in Uttar Pradesh, where it has pockets of influence. Jayant Chowdhurys first response, in a post on X, to the news was, Dil jeet liya while tagging Prime Minister Narendra Modis statement on the honour. Charan Singh is an icon for the Jat community, which has substantial political influence in western Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Rajasthan. This Bharat Ratna could be seen as an outreach by the BJP to the restive Jat constituency, which had been lukewarm to the BJP since the protests over farm laws in 2020 and the partys shielding of its MP, Brijbhushan Saran Singh, in the wrestlers issue. Singh also represents an anti-Congress strand in Indian politics though he built his political career as a Congressman and minister in successive Congress governments in UP in the 1950s and 1960s. In 1967, in the wake of socialist leader Rammanohar Lohia crafting an Opposition alliance on the basis of anti-Congressism, Singh broke from the Congress to head the Samyukta Vidhayak Dal ministry in UP; he was the first non-Congress chief minister of UP. He formed the Bharatiya Kranti Dal (BKD) in 67, which became the Bharatiya Lok Dal in 1975 after the merger of BKD, Swatantra Party, Samyukta Socialist Party, Utkal Congress and several other groups. The BKD, Bharatiya Jana Sangh, Congress-O, and Socialist Party came together to form the Janata Party in the aftermath of the Emergency, under the direction of Jayaprakash Narayan. Charan Singh, like many other Opposition stalwarts, was jailed during the Emergency and emerged as a key leader of the resistance. His differences with Prime Minister Morarji Desai contributed to the implosion of the Janata government (1977-79). Deputy PM in the Desai government, Charan Singh, who also ordered the controversial arrest of Indira Gandhi over Emergency excesses, succeeded Desai as PM, ironically, with the support of the Congress. He had to resign six months later, without having faced Parliament even once. In his seventies by then, Charan Singh revived his party as the Lok Dal but was outsmarted by a resurgent Indira Gandhi in national and UP politics. The Lok Dal split in 1987 reportedly over his attempts to make son, Ajit Singh, the heir. His protege, Mulayam Singh Yadav, won that battle and became the face of anti-Congress politics in UP. As Mandal and Mandir took centre stage in UP, Charan Singhs legacy became confined to western UP, and his image restricted to that of a Jat leader. However, the perception of Charan Singh as a Jat leader of western UP hardly does justice to a layered political career. Born on December 23, 1902, in Noorpur, Meerut, in a peasant family, he was active in the freedom movement as a Congress worker and organiser and was imprisoned multiple times from 1930 onwards. He was well educated he had an MA in history and a law degree and according to his biographer, the renowned political scientist Paul Brass, was well-read. Marxist academic Terence J. Byres describes him as an organic intellectual in the Gramscian sense. Scholars who followed Charan Singhs life and politics write about the coherence and consistency in his voluminous writings on Indian agriculture and economy. (Charan Singh published an article in this newspaper on agricultural marketing in 1938, a topic on which he introduced a Bill in the United Provinces assembly later). Brass describes him as the principal spokesman of the middle peasantry, who also identified with the aspirations of the so-called backward castes and of intermediate social status between the elite castes and the lower castes. Brass argues that Charan Singh, in his books and pamphlets, presented an extremely sophisticated and coherent alternative development strategy for India, that was different from that of prime ministers Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi. In government, Charan Singh was seen as a custodian of peasant interests. He opposed landlordism and was a central figure as the minister piloting land reforms in UP in the 1950s. The peasant/farmer was at the heart of his rural vision, and small-scale production had to be the driver of industry. However, he was against land distribution among the landless the Left would derisively call him a kulak (wealthy peasant). It is this socio-economic stance that turned him against the Indira-led Congress, which had a pronounced Left tilt in the late 1960s. His anti-Congressism was not merely derivative of his political ambitions but also the result of the new peasant-centric politics that was demanding a share in power and institutions, dominated by the caste and class elite of UP Congress. He crafted the Jat-Muslim alliance that was politically powerful and ensured social peace. The high noon of Charan Singhs political career was the 1970s. In 1978, on the day he turned 76, a mega rally of over a million farmers was held in Delhi, which was attended by the chief ministers of UP, Bihar, Haryana, and Punjab. That show of strength revealed his clout as a leader of farmers but it proved ephemeral as the Janata Party split and his short tenure as PM on Congress support led to the diminishing of a rich political career that upheld the centrality of peasant identity for Indian politics. The politics he advanced shows up in the occasional mobilisation of peasants and farmers, but its electoral relevance has diminished with caste and faith becoming much more potent draws. The Supreme Court on Friday agreed to examine whether the words socialist and secular could have been inserted in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution in 1976 even though the date of the adoption of the Constitution remained unaltered -- November 26, 1949. The top court was hearing a pair of petitions that have sought deletion of words secular and socialist from the Preamble (ANI) Hearing a pair of petitions that have sought deletion of words secular and socialist from the Preamble, a bench of justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta clarified that the court did not mean to say that Preamble cannot be amended at all, but the question arose if it could have been tweaked when the date of adoption of the Constitution was a part of the Preamble too. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Just consider this...Can the Preamble be changed while keeping the other date intact? This is perhaps the only Preamble we have seen that comes with a date. On so and so date (November 26, 1949) we give ourselves this Constitution...this is also a part of the Preamble, the bench asked counsel Vishnu Shankar Jain and former parliamentarian Subramanian Swamy. While Jain represented two advocates and a social worker who moved a common petition, Swamy filed a petition in his personal capacity. Read more: Bail is rule, jail an exception does not apply in terror cases: Supreme Court Its not that Preamble cannot be amended. The question is about the other date, the bench clarified, as it asked the parties to come prepared with a discussion on this point on the next date of hearing. The court has fixed the next hearing in April. The Preamble is an introductory statement that sets out the Constitutions guiding purpose and principles as the master document. It was adopted on November 26, 1949, by the Constituent Assembly of India and came into effect on January 26, 1950. It initially read : We, the people of India, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a sovereign democratic republic and to secure to all its citizens: justice, social, economic and political; liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship; equality of status and of opportunity; and to promote among them all fraternity assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the Nation; In our Constituent assembly this 26th day of November, 1949, do hereby adopt, enact and give to ourselves this Constitution. The words socialist and secular were inserted in 1976 by the 42nd Constitution Amendment, passed by the then Indira Gandhi government. The first line now mentions sovereign socialist secular democratic republic. The petition filed jointly by Balram Singh, Karunesh Kumar Shukla and Pravesh Kumar in 2020 argued that the amendment made in 1976 was antithetical to the constitutional tenets as well as the historical and cultural theme of India because the Constitution permits them the right to practice, profess and propagate their own religion under Article 25. The amendment was per se illegal for violating the concept of freedom of speech and expression enumerated in Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution and the right to freedom of religion guaranteed under Article 25 of the Constitution, it said. Read more: What next for Sharad Pawar as Ajit Pawar's NCP files caveat in Supreme Court? The plea sought a direction the Union government to declare that the concept of socialism and secularism referred to the nature of the republic and was limited to the working of the sovereign function of the State and not applicable to citizens, political parties and social organisations. The petition has also challenged the insertion of words secular and socialist in Section 29 A (5) of the Representation of People Act by an amendment in 1989. The provision makes it compulsory for a political party applying for registration before Election Commission of India, to make specific provision in its memorandum or rules and regulations that the association or body shall bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution of India as by law established and to the principles of socialism and secularism and democracy and would uphold the sovereignty and integrity of India. The petition, filed by Jain, further argued that the original Constitution makers deliberately chose to keep these concepts out of the Preamble. On November 15, 1948, Professor KT Shah proposed adding the words secular, federal and socialist nation, but the Constituent Assembly (CA) rejected it after a lengthy discussion. Again, on November 25, 1948, a second amendment was introduced and discussed on incorporating the word secular in the draft Constitution. That, too, was rejected. On December 3 that same year, a third attempt was made to include secular in Article 18 of the Constitution, which was also dismissed by the Constituent assembly. The petition demanded the top court to examine that given this position, whether Parliament could go against the solemn declaration by the Constituent assembly and modify or add secular and socialist words to the text of the Preamble by way of an amendment in 1976. Similarly, Swamys petition, also filed in 2020 contended that it was not possible for policymakers to vary, alter or repeal the Preamble since it was not equivalent to an ordinary statute. Swamy added that the Preamble not only formed the essential features of the Constitution but also the fundamental conditions based on which various groups and interests adopted the Constitution with the hope to create one unified integrated community. He claimed that the insertion was against the right to freedom of religion, and the concept of judicial review which formed an integral part of the basic structure of the Constitution. The India-UAE relationship has undergone a major transformation under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Now, PM Modi is set to inaugurate the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi on February 14. He will also address the Indian community event, Ahlan Modi at Sheikh Zayed Stadium in UAE on February 13. Several economic deals are also expected to be signed during the Prime Ministers visit. This comes after President of the United Arab Emirates Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, earlier, made a rare speech at the Vibrant Gujarat Summit. So, how did India turn around its relationship with the UAE? What are the major deals likely to be signed during PM Modis UAE visit? Why is the relationship between India and the UAE extremely significant? Hindustan Times Executive Editor Shishir Gupta sheds light on these issues in the latest edition of Point Blank. Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan as he arrives to take part in the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, in Ahmedabad.(ANI file photo) This is the biggest Hindu temple outside India. It is also a temple planned by two leaders -- the UAE president and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It is a temple that is spread over 27 acres of land and with absolute delicate carvings. A temple in a country which is an Islamic emirate has its basis when Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed for the first time in UAE in 2015. He went to the mosque which was named after the father of the UAE president. That mosque is the biggest mosque after Mecca and Medina. So, UAE has a tradition of building big structures. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. This temple is a part of this series but it is also a showcase of how the India-UAE ties have progressed over the years. It was the duty of EAM S Jaishankar that the temple is completed in time and that the total focus was there. The temple is a symbol of the India-UAE ties. When PM Modi took over in 2014, one of his projects was to reach out to the gulf countries. The Indian diaspora had been remitting massive amount back to India. The initial forays were made at the level of intelligence officials, at the levels of the national security advisor, at the level of then foreign secretary, S Jaishankar. When we reached out to the UAE, its leaders said very clearly that 'you have been viewing us from the prism of Pakistan, we look at you bilaterally'. And that is where it all started. Then we started to engaged bilaterally. PM Modi's visit in 2015 was the first visit of any Indian prime minister after 34 years. The last one was PM Indira Gandhi in 1981. When IC 184 hijacking happened, the Indian ambassador wasn't even allow to go into the air base where the hijacked flight was landed before it took off for Kandhar. That was the state of India-UAE relations. A lot of terrorists and criminals had taken refuge in the UAE and were targeting India via the country. All that has changed. Today, UAE has the largest Indian passport carrying diaspora. It is 3.54 million. UAE is the new Singapore for the Indians. It is India's one of the closest allies, which is now going to sign a bilateral treaty. All has changed with the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sheikh Mohammad Bin Zayed. New Delhi: By picking three ideological and political opponents, former Prime Ministers Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh, former Bihar CM Karpoori Thakur, in addition to party patriarch LK Advani and father of the green revolution MS Swaminathan for the countrys highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has offered an olive branch to social groups where it lacks a foothold and above all embarrassed the Congress by embracing leaders who fell out of favour with the Gandhi family. Former prime ministers Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh and the pioneer of Indias Green Revolution MS Swaminathanwere conferred the Bharat Ratna award on Friday. (HT Photo) On Friday, PM Narendra Modi announced the Bharat Ratna for Rao, Singh and Swaminathan. The honour for Advani was announced last week, and for Thakur the week before that. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Also Read: Charan Singh: Organic politician who centred politics on peasant identity PM Modi's praise for Rao Referring to Rao as a distinguished scholar and statesman, the PM said he will be equally remembered for the work he did as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Union Minister, and as a Member of Parliament and Legislative Assembly for many years. His visionary leadership was instrumental in making India economically advanced, laying a solid foundation for the countrys prosperity and growth, he said in a post on X. Also Read: Former PM PV Narasimha Rao pioneered Indias economic reforms The conspicuous pursuit of voters in the southern states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana apart, the message in picking Rao, a polyglot who could recite Sanskrit shlokas (verse) and was conversant with the Vedas and Upanishads is obvious said a senior party functionary. He was treated badly by the Gandhi family and therefore by the Congress party and the PM and the BJP leadership have always drawn attention to how even a senior leader like Rao can fall from grace. When the PM attacks the Congress for fostering dynasty and overlooking talent, Rao exemplifies it, the leader said. BJP's Telangana focus The BJP, which has set its sights on strengthening its position in Telangana, is hopeful that by picking Rao for the top honour, denied to him by the Congress, the party will gain electorally. Rao was born in undivided AP. The BJP was trying to woo Raos daughter Vani Devi, but it was the BRS the scored on the front by nominating her as an MLC. With the award, the party has not allowed the BRS to stake claim to his legacy in the state, said a second party functionary. Also Read: Bharat Ratna for MS Swaminathan: The pioneer of Indias Green Revolution The award for Rao comes close on the heels of the consecration of the Ram Temple, an issue that brought Rao closer to the RSS, the ideological fount of the BJP. Since he was directly involved in the negotiations between the Hindu and Muslim groups, he forged a friendship with the (then) VHP top boss, Ashok Singhal. He would later praise Rao for showing a desire to construct a Bhavya Mandir (grand temple) and government acquiring land adjacent to the disputed site, the first functionary said. The honour for Swaminathan, is also an attempt to give its outreach in the southern states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala a fillip and for reinforcing the commitment towards the farming community. Referring to the Kerala-born Swaminathan, who made TN his home, the PM said monumental contributions to our nation in agriculture and farmers welfare. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture during challenging times and made outstanding efforts towards modernizing Indian agriculture, he said. Swaminathan was born in the Madras Presidency which included present-day Andhra Pradesh, almost all of Tamil Nadu and some parts of Kerala, Karnataka, Odisha and Telangana. The PM has spoken about doubling farm incomes, increasing yield to cut dependence on imports and becoming self-sufficient, issues that Swaminath worked for all his life. By honouring him, the PM has reiterated that the welfare of the community is top of the agenda, the first functionary said. The award for Singh, a Jat leader, that comes ahead of the Lok Sabha polls is expected to bolster the partys outreach towards the farmers and the Jat community that spans across Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Haryana. The BJP is also close to announcing an alliance with his grandson, Jayant Singhs Rashtriya Lok Dal. Ahead of the UP (state) polls, the BJP was expected to fare poorly in the Jat dominated parts of the state owing to the farmers protest that went on for a year. But that did not happen. The BJP has emerged as the party of choice for the Jats as well, barring in some constituencies where Jat-Muslim combination is a driving force. RLD coming on board will only further cement BJP-Jat ties, said the first functionary quoted above. With the award for the political opponents, the BJP has also attempted to puncture the allegations of running an unrelenting campaign against the opposition. The PM while bidding farewell to former PM Mammohan Singh (in the Rajya Sabha) praised his contribution to democracy...the BJP has conferred the honour on Pranab Mukherjee (Congress), Karpoori Thakur, Rao and now Chaudhary all of whom had no ideological links with the Sangh Parivaar. This shows that while he attacks the opposition for their failings, he does not shy away from acknowledging the contributions of leaders from other parties, said a third party functionary. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Prime Minister of the Republic of Albania Edi Rama has congratulated President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on his resounding victory in the snap presidential election, Trend reports. Heartfelt congratulations to my dear Ilham Aliyev on his reconfirmation as the undisputed leader of friendly Azerbaijan, a lovely country with diligent, hardworking people who, under his leadership, are making great strides forward! I look forward to assist in the opening of the new Albanian Embassy in Baku very soon, PM Edi Rama said in a post on the social media platform X. The Indian Navy has its hands full, quite literally. An Iranian-flagged vessel FV Omari after being intercepted by Indian Navy's INS Sharda. (PTI) On February 2, the Navy did what it has been doing successfully since 2008, but with extra vigour in the last couple of years. It thwarted yet another assault on a foreign fishing vessel off the coast of Somalia by pirates from the war-torn African country. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. That day, the Iranian vessel FV Omaril found itself under siege by Somalian pirates, but the Indian Navy aircraft swiftly neutralized the imminent threat in the early hours of the day. Responding to the call, INS Sharda, specializing in anti-piracy operations, rapidly altered its course to intercept the FV Omaril. In a short time, it compelled the pirates to release the vessel and its crew, consisting of 11 Iranians and eight Pakistanis, unharmed. On January 30, 2024, the Navy conducted two anti-piracy operations in the Arabian Sea off Somalia and rescued two hijacked fishing vessels along with a 36-member crew, according to an official statement. The Navy said that Indian ship Sumitra, deployed for anti-piracy and maritime security operations, rescued crew from two vessels hijacked by pirates. In another operation off the East Coast of Somalia, fishing vessel Al Naeemi and her crew, 19 Pakistani nationals were rescued from the clutches of 11 Somali pirates. The Navys prompt action against piracy bids in the Arabian Sea is increasingly catching momentum, primarily around the Gulf of Aden and the Horn of Africa of which Somalia is the leading country. The Minister of State (MoS) for Defence Ajay Bhatt informed the Parliament last week that seven incidents of hijacking of vessels on high seas by pirates have been reported during the last three years and Indian Navy has been proactively engaging with the regional and extra-regional navies and maritime forces. According to an official statement, for restoring maritime security in the region, enhanced presence of ships, aerial surveillance by maritime patrol aircraft, RPA in the Central Arabian Sea and Off East of Coast of Somalia is being undertaken by Indian Navy. In addition, interrogation of fishing vessels/ dhows operating in the region is also being undertaken for maintaining maritime security in the region. Says Commodore Anil Jai Singh, a submarine veteran, and Vice President Indian Maritime Foundation: ``A vast percentage of Indian trade passes through the northern Arabian Sea and western Indian Ocean. India cannot afford to jeopardise its trade. If piracy goes up, as it did between 2008 and 2012, and is showing signs of rearing its head again, just the high insurance rates can cause huge economic losses. Indian Navy vessels escort merchant ships through the 490 nautical mile long Internationally Recommended Transit Corridor (IRTC) and thus 50 naval warships have been deployed, a statement issued by the Navy said. That's a large number of warships, including destroyers and frigates. MoS Bhatt told the House that ``since 2008, Indian Navy has deployed units in Gulf of Aden and East Coast of Africa towards anti-piracy patrols. A total of 3,440 ships and over 25,000 seafarers have been safely escorted. As the resident naval power in the Indian Ocean, India plays a pivotal role. With over 7,500 km of coastline, 14,500 km of navigable waterways, and 212 active ports - 12 government owned and 200 immediate and minor ports- India relies heavily on the Indian Ocean for commercial and non- commercial shipping, energy importation, trade, tourism, and fishing. The Navy therefore considers the entire Indian Oceanfrom the eastern coast of Africa to the Andaman Seaas its area of influence. India exports to 18 of the 33 countries in the region and imports from several other countries, including Australia, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, noted the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace in a paper last year. The top priority for strategic planners is to protect the sea lines of communications (SLOCs) since they are the channel through which 83 per cent of Indias crude oil comes along with a gigantic slice of Indian trade. But here lies the downside. It is Indias interest to maintain strong partnership with littoral and island nations across the region. For example, in 2021, India extended a $100-million line of credit to Mauritius for security and military spending. The same year, it inked a $50-million deal with Maldives to support the countrys coast guard development and other security infrastructure projects. In 2022, Sri Lanka and India signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a Maritime Rescue Coordination Center, an agreement that derived from Indias Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) initiative. Now, with a not-so-friendly government in Maldives, which is willing to sup up China and offer it a naval watch post to keep an eye on India, New Delhi is naturally alert. ``China wants to get a toe hold in the Indian Ocean and it is imperative for India to keep them out. That is our challenge, says Commodore Singh. Seems like the Indian Navy has a busy 2024 ahead. Andhra Pradesh chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday and reiterated his governments long-pending demand to grant special category status to the state. Andhra Pradesh chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy calls on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in New Delhi on Friday (ANI) The hour-long meeting comes a day after Telugu Desam Party (TDP) president N Chandrababu Naidu met Union home minister Amit Shah and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president JP Nadda in Delhi, stirring speculation that the two parties may join hands ahead of elections to the Andhra Pradesh assembly and the Lok Sabha. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. An official press release issued by the CMs office confirmed that Jagan called on Modi at the Prime Ministers Office in Parliament to discuss various issues related to the state. Appealed to the Prime Minister regarding release of Polavaram funds, electricity dues from Telangana to AP, guarantees of partition and special status, the CMO said in a statement. Read more: PV Narasimha Rao, Chaudhary Charan Singh, MS Swaminathan to get Bharat Ratna: PM Modi According to people familiar with the matter, Jagan reiterated the state governments demand for granting special category status to Andhra Pradesh, as promised at the time of division of the state. During the meeting, the CM highlighted that the special category status was necessary for the economic progress of the state, as it will not only attract investments but also create better employment opportunities, an official aware of the developments said, requesting anonymity. The special category status is one of the provisions of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, which led to the formation of Telangana in June 2014. Reddy, who swept the 2019 state polls riding on the issue of special category status, has held several meetings with Modi and Shah over the issue in the past. During the meeting, the CM also urged the Centre to release 17,144 crore required for the completion of the first phase of Polavaram irrigation project. The CM brought to the notice of the Prime Minister that the Union ministry of finance had agreed to lift the component wise ceiling in the Polavaram project for release of funds. It has agreed to release 12,911 crore for the early completion of the first phase of the project, the CMO said in a statement. Read more: Hope next govt at Centre needs support of YSRCP: Jagan in Andhra assembly However, the chief minister said that the completion of the first phase of Polavaram will cost around 17,144 crore, and the proposal for this is already pending in the department of hydropower. He requested Modi to see that the revised proposal be approved immediately, it added. The chief minister also sought the intervention of the Prime Minister to ensure that the Telangana government pays power dues worth 7,230 crore to Andhra Pradesh for supplying power to the state from 2014 to 2017, the statement said. The chief minister brought to the attention of the Prime Minister that the number of districts had now gone up to 26 due to reorganisation of 13 erstwhile districts. The state government had established 17 new medical colleges and classes had already started in some colleges. He requested that the Centre provide adequate support and cooperation regarding the establishment of colleges, it added. The CMO said that Jagan also requested PM Modi to provide adequate support for the 55 km 6-lane road connecting Bhogapuram, Bhimili, Rushikonda and Visakhapatnam ports proposed to connect Visakhapatnam with Bhogapuram International Airport. Approval to the Visakhapatnam Metro Rail project and extension of the Visakhapatnam-Kurnool High Speed Corridor to Bangalore via Kadapa were also discussed at the meeting. Hyderabad: Andhra Pradesh chief minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy on Friday requested the Centre to release 17,144 crore required for the completion of the first phase of the Polavaram irrigation project. Andhra Pradesh chief minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy. (ANI) The chief minister met Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his chamber in Parliament and discussed several issues related to the state in the hour-long meeting, an official release from the chief ministers office (CMO) said. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Reddys meeting took place two days after his political opponent and TDP chief, Chandrababu Naidu, met home minister, Amit Shah, in New Delhi. The TDP leaders termed the meeting as positive over an alliance with the BJP for state assembly and Lok Sabha polls. The CMO statement said Reddy brought to the PMs notice that the Union finance ministry had agreed to lift the component-wise ceiling in the Polavaram project for release of funds. It has agreed to release 12,911 crores for the early completion of the first phase of the project. However, the chief minister said that the completion of the first phase of Polavaram will cost around 17,144 crores, and the proposal for this is already pending in the department of hydropower. He requested Modi to see that the revised proposal be approved immediately, the statement said. Also Read: Andhra Pradesh: Jagan sounds poll bugle with attack on Naidu The chief minister also sought the Prime Ministers intervention to ensure that the Telangana government pay 7,230 crore power bill arrears to AP Genco for the electricity supplied to the neighbouring state for three years from June 2014. Reddy reiterated the state governments demand for granting special category status as promised at the time of division of the state. He said that special category status was necessary for the states economic progress as it will not only attract investments but also create employment opportunities. Reddy brought to the PMs attention that the number of districts had now gone up to 26 due to the reorganisation of 13 erstwhile districts. The state government had established 17 new medical colleges and classes had begun in some colleges. He requested that the Centre provide adequate support for establishing colleges. Reddy requested Modi to provide support for the 55 km 6-lane road connecting Bhogapuram, Bhimili, Rushikonda and Visakhapatnam ports. He requested the PM to approve the Visakhapatnam Metro Rail project as soon as possible. He requested the extension of the Visakhapatnam-Kurnool High Speed Corridor to Bangalore via Kadapa as mentioned in the bifurcation act. Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday continued her attack on the 10-year rule of the Manmohan Singh-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government, saying that it suffered from a leadership problem as an extra-constitutional body the National Advisory Council (NAC) headed by Congress president Sonia Gandhi ran the government, which was the reason for India being clubbed in what was known as Fragile Five economies. Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman speaks in the Lok Sabha during the Budget Session of Parliament on Friday. (ANI) Speaking in the Lok Sabha on the discussions related to the White Paper that the minister released a day earlier, Sitharaman also contrasted responses during two global crises saying the UPA-eras response in the aftermath of the 2008 global financial crisis (GFC) was not as sincere as the NDA governments handling of the Covid-19 pandemic, which was a more serious situation. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. She said the scandal-ridden 10 years of the UPA regime saw a series of corruption scandals, including the 1.86 lakh crore coal scam, and contrasted it with the Narendra Modi governments district mineral funds for local area development that she said has mopped up 84,900 crore, benefiting states of Jharkhand, Odisha, Karnataka and Chhattisgarh. Read more: White paper debate: Nirmala Sitharaman blasts Congress-led UPA regime, says brought economy The minister also took aim at the former environment minister Jayanthi Natarajan and alleged that the government at the time sought kickbacks to clear environment projects, referring to them as Jayanthi tax. Initiating the debate in the Lower House on the White Paper on the Indian Economy, the minister said the previous UPA government committed scandal after scandal in their 10 years of rule and left the economy in a sorry state when it exited. God knows, what would be the condition of this country today if they would have continued, she said in her opening remarks in the House. The White Paper a 60-page document released in the Parliament on Thursday is a comparison between the Narendra Modi-led NDA government (2014-2024) and the 10-year rule of the UPA regime (2004-14). Sitharaman said the leadership issue in the UPA regime was at the heart of the problem and it is at the centre of UPAs scam-driven 10 years, mismanagement and crony capitalism. Addressing the chair, she said: Sir, honble Sonia Gandhiji was super prime minister and the chairperson of the National Advisory Council, an extra-constitutional and an unaccountable person. Sitharaman said 710 files were sent to NAC for approval, which was unconstitutional use of power. Former finance minister P Chidambaram of the Congress referred to the White Paper as a white-lie paper and a hatchet job. Even the authors will not claim that it is an academic, well-researched or scholarly paper, Chidambaram said in a statement. He added that no government on assuming office had made as wild promises as the Narendra Modi government and broken them without an expression of regret. Read more: Reforms, clarity of leadership led to turnaround, what govt's White Paper shows The White Paper, the minister said, is prepared with responsibility so that the records of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha have the factual information on the economy and it would be a record for posterity about the efforts made by a Prime Minister [referring to Modi] to restore Indias glory from among the fragile five to the top five. She said the coal scam caused bhayanak nuksaan (tremendous loss) to Bharat as it led to cancellation of 204 mining blocks by the Supreme Court. That impacted domestic output, forced India to import coal to produce electricity even though the country has huge coal reserves. The Modi government conducted coal block auctions transparently for commercial mining as energy is necessary for the worlds fastest growing major economy, she said. Aapne koyla ko rakh banaya, hamne aapne nitiyon ke tap se koyle ko heera bana diya (You turned coal into ash, we turned coal into diamonds with the efforts of our policies), she said, citing the expected record 900 million tonnes of coal production in the current financial year. In the coming year, it will reach 1 billion tonnes, she added. In 2013-14, total coal production was 567 million tonnes, she said adding that enhanced domestic output will save foreign exchange. Read more: Fragile 5 to 5th largest: Centre blames UPA, hails turnaround When you dont put the nation first, when you put your first family first, and when you have other consideration than transparency, the results are out there for you to see. So, what happened after 2008 when there was a global financial crisis and what happened post-Covid shows clearly that if the intent of the government is sincere, results will be good, the minister said. In her remarks, Sitharaman also highlighted the poor condition of public sector banks (PSBs) during the UPA government. She also recollected the first major financial scam of independent India in the 1950s by Kolkata-based businessman Haridas Mundhra and the sacking of honest State Bank of India (SBI) chairman Raj Kumar Talwar in 1976 for not obliging friends of politicians with loans. She said the malaise of phone banking alluding to the alleged practice of banks extending loans without due diligence and proper collateral to cronies of the ruling party was rampant during the UPA regime, which led to a spurt in non-performing assets (NPAs). When the Vajpayee-led NDA government took office, the gross Non-Performing Assets (GNPA) ratio in public sector banks was 16%, and when they left office, it was 7.8%. In September 2013, this ratio, including restructured loans, had climbed to 12.3% largely because of political interference by the UPA government in the commercial lending decisions of public sector banks. Worse, even that high percentage of bad debts was an underestimate, the document said. Sitharaman said the situation was alarming for the economy as banks were not in a position to give any more loans. In March 2014, top 200 companies with an interest coverage ratio of less than one owed about 8.6 lakh crore to banks, she said. Then the Modi government launched a transparent Asset Quality Review (AQR) in 2015 to recognise hidden liabilities of banks that were brushed under the carpet and reformed PSBs through the four R strategy Recognition, Resolution, Recapitalisation and Reform. Participating in the debate, Congress leader Manish Tewari said the White Paper is a political manifesto for the upcoming 2024 General Elections. If you wanted to bring a White Paper, you should have brought it in 2014. The intention behind this White Paper is only political, he said. In her concluding remarks, Sitharaman refuted the charge. She said the Modi government did not disclose the precarious state of the economy immediately after assuming power in May 2014 because that would have had a negative impact on the morale of citizens and scared investors away. Tiwari said the government should recognise the fact that the UPA government brought some transformative reforms such as the Right to Information (RTI), the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), the Right to Education, Aadhaar and the National Food Security Act. I want to ask what is your achievement? If you think demonetisation, or GST [Goods and Services tax], which destroyed small and medium industry, are achievements, I leave it to your wisdom, he said. The first part of this data journalism series looked at the factors behind the grievances of Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu, the three southern states which have organized protests in Delhi over fiscal federalism related issues. The concluding part will take a look at larger issues concerning Indias fiscal federalism debate which goes beyond the concerns of southern states but have played a role in muddying Indias fiscal federalism waters in the recent past. Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal with his Kerala counterpart Pinarayi Vijayan during a protest in New Delhi against the Centre's alleged neglect and partiality in allocation of funds to their states. (PTI) The Constitution (Scheduled Tribes) Order (Amendment) Bill, 2024, passed by Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha this week adds two new tribes to the existing 62 in the list in Odisha. They are the Muka Dora (also Mooka Dora, Nuka Dora and Nooka Dora), present in the undivided Koraput district which includes Koraput, Nabarangpur, Rayagada and Malkangiri districts and the tribe Konda Reddy (also Konda Reddi) present in Malkangiri district. Two communities listed as SCs Tamadia and Tamudia will be removed from the SC list and included in the ST list under the Bhumij tribes. Tamadia, also called Teli Bhumij or Tamudia have no cultural symbols or special dress to identify them. As a scheduled caste they had somewhat low status in Hindu society. The inclusion helps bring similarity in the facilities available to tribal groups. For instance, as a noted researcher in tribal studies and anthropologist, AB Ota pointed out, the Konda Reddy community was recognised as ST in Andhra Pradesh, but treated as a socially and educationally backward class in the Malkangiri district of Odisha. Same was the case of Muka Doras who were regarded as tribals in Andhra Pradesh, but not in Odisha," said Ota. The inclusion of these groups in the ST list was long overdue, he added. Furthermore, there are many in the list that have synonymous tribal names. We had sent a proposal to include 160 tribes under the existing 62 tribes due to phonetic similarities with the existing tribes as well as synonyms of tribes that were already on the list. From the list that we had sent, about two dozen tribes have been included. This would correct a lot of historical mistakes and allow people of that sub-tribe to avail government facilities, like scholarships for children, reservation in government jobs etc, Odisha SC/ST development secretary Roopa Roshan Sahu said. Four particularly vulnerable tribal groups (PVTG) have also been added to the schedule of Odisha Pauri Bhuyan, Paudi Bhuyan (whose synonyms Bhuiya, Bhuyan are already in the list); Chuktia Bhunjia (synonym Bhunjia already in the list); Bondo (as sub-entry under Bondo Poraja, Bonda Paroja, Banda Paroja); and Mankidia (as a synonym of Mankirdia, already in the list). Through this amendment, the four PVTGs and more than 50 sub-tribes will get their Constitutional rights, which they have been denied for the last 75 years. But we have a long way to go," she said. With more than 6 million tribals, accounting for more than 23% of the population of the state, Odisha has one of the highest percentages of tribals in India. In 2014, the Konda Reddy community boycotted the polls demanding their inclusion in the ST list. The community leaders alleged that while some people of the community, who settled down in Andhra Pradesh prior to the separation of Odisha from Madras Presidency of Visakhapatnam district in 1936, got ST status by the Andhra Pradesh government, tribals of the same community residing in Malkangiri were not included in the ST category. As a result, they were unable to avail any of the benefits. The resentment of the Konda Reddy community also fanned the support for Maoists in the Malkangiri area. New Delhi: The Rajya Sabha on Friday passed three bills pertaining to reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in local bodies and modification of the lists of Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) in Jammu & Kashmir. Rajya Sabha cleared the 3 bills by a voice vote on Friday. (ANI) The Jammu and Kashmir Local Bodies Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024, the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order (Amendment) Bill, 2024 and the Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2024 all of which were cleared by the Lok Sabha on Tuesday were tabled and passed by voice vote in the Rajya Sabha. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. The Jammu and Kashmir Local Bodies Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024 seeks to provide reservation to OBCs in panchayats and municipalities in Jammu & Kashmir and bring consistency in the local body laws of the Union territory with the provisions of the Constitution. Currently, there is no provision for reservation of seats for OBCs in panchayats and municipalities of the Union territory. Read more: Watch: Massive avalanche hits Jammu and Kashmirs Sonamarg, no damage Speaking on the legislation, minister of state for home affairs Nityananda Rai said the government has taken several steps for the welfare of OBCs in Jammu & Kashmir and this amendment is another step in that direction. According to Rai, there are three main amendments to the bill. Firstly, the bill ensures reservation for OBCs in panchayats and municipal bodies in Jammu & Kashmir. Secondly, the state election commission will be in-charge of conducting elections to panchayats and municipalities, he said. Thirdly, the removal process of state election commissioner will be according to the constitutional provisions and can only be removed under circumstances similar to those of a judge of a high court, he said. Whenever there has been a commission to improve the law, their recommendations were never implemented by the Congress government. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given rights and justice to the OBCs, Rai said. The minister also listed out the development works undertaken after removal of Article 370 in the Union territory and said the region is now peaceful and on the path of development. The Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order (Amendment) Bill, 2024 seeks to amend the Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Castes Order of 1956, which lists the castes deemed to be Scheduled Castes in Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh. The legislation adds the Valmiki community as a synonym of Chura, Balmiki, Bhangi, and Mehtar communities in the list of Scheduled Castes in Jammu & Kashmir. Read more: The new Scheduled Tribe in J&K: Paharis Replying to the discussion on the bill, minister for social justice and empowerment Virendra Kumar said the communities will get the benefits of so many schemes with the passing of the legislation. The Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2024 seeks to amend the Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order, 1989 and proposes the creation of separate lists of Scheduled Tribes for the Union territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. The legislation also adds Gadda Brahmin, Koli, Paddari Tribe, and Pahari Ethnic Group communities in the list of Scheduled Tribes in Jammu & Kashmir. Minister of tribal affairs Arjun Munda, while replying to the discussion on the bill, said it seeks to give justice to the communities who were demanding the status of a Scheduled Tribe for long. The scrapping of Article 370 has allowed us to bring these laws, he said. The inclusion of the Pahari Ethnic Group on the Scheduled Tribe list has attracted the ire of the Gujjar and Bakarwal communities in Jammu. The Gujjar and Bakarwal communities which so far enjoy the ST status claim that the Pahari Ethnic Group is a well settled community and giving them the ST tag would cut into their reservations. On Tuesday, section 144 of CrPC was imposed in Poonch and Rajouri districts of Jammu amid fears of a law and order situation, as the legislation was passed by the Lok Sabha. On Friday, Munda said: The reservation already available for existing tribes will be maintained... Opposition members, however, raised concerns over the three legislations. Congresss Neeraj Dangi questioned the formulation of reservation policies in the absence of adequate data on reserved categories. How do we make policies without data on reserved categories? Dangi said. CPIS Sandosh Kumar P stressed the need for an elected state assembly in Jammu & Kashmir and questioned the basis for the OBC reservation. We all support an OBC reservation. But where is the data available? he said. As Parliament is in its final session before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted a lunch for MPs in the Parliament canteen. The gathering included lawmakers from various parties and regions across the country. PM Modi takes lunch with MPs in Parliament Canteen. Follow: Parliament Budget session LIVE updates Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. After the general election, a new Lok Sabha will be formed.68 members of the Rajya Sabha are set to retire in April. Among them are nine union ministers, including railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, education minister Dharmendra Pradhan, environment minister Bhupendra Yadav, health minister Mansukh Mandaviya, and former prime minister Manmohan Singh. PM Modi with MPs in Parliament Canteen | Pics PM Modi hosts lunch for MPs. Lawmakers from different parties joined PM Modi on lunch. PM Modi with lawmakers in Parliament canteen. Earlier on Wednesday, PM Modi extended his best wishes to all retiring members of the Rajya Sabha, expressing hope that they will scale new heights after gaining education in this 'eternal university.' ALSO READ- PM Modi lauds ex-PM Manmohan Singh in Rajya Sabha farewell speech: The way he has guided In his Parliament speech, he outlined his vision for a potential third term, emphasising its role in strengthening the foundation for a developed India. Simultaneously, he launched a scorching attack on Congress, criticising its handling of the economy. ALSO READ- After a storied career, former PM Manmohan Singh likely to retire from public life The third term of our government is not far away. Some people call it Modi 3.0. Modi 3.0 will put all its might to strengthen the foundation of Viksit Bharat (developed India), the PM said while speaking in the Rajya Sabha as part of his reply to the debate on the motion of thanks on the Presidents address. The Centre extended the Parliament session by a day until Saturday. On Friday, BJP chief whip in the Rajya Sabha, Laxmikant Bajpai, issued a three-line whip to party MPs, directing their presence in the Rajya Sabha on Saturday. On the second last day of the Budget session in Parliament on Friday, some members of Parliament (MPs) were in for a surprise as Prime Minister Narendra Modi took them along with him for lunch. PM Modi had his lunch in the Parliament canteen on Friday with 8 MPs. Union minister L Murugan described it as a very special opportunity for the eight MPs who sat with the Prime Minister in the Parliament canteen to have a platter of rice, khichdi, paneer, daal, til and ragi sweets. PM Modi paid the bill, the minister told ANI. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. BJD leader Sasmit Patra, RSP leader N K Premachandran, TDP's K Ram Mohan Naidu, BSP's Ritesh Pandey, BJP's Heena Gavit, S Phangnon Konyak, Jamyang Tsering Namgyal and L Murugan were with PM Modi at the lunch. Unforgettable 45 minutes "Everyone was surprised and happy at the same time. PM Modi talked about his daily routine, his exercise, his foreign trips, when he visited Karachi. We got to spend 45 minutes with him. We learnt so many inspiring things from him. He said he sleeps for 3.5 hours and does not eat after 6pm," L Murugan said. "The MPs were from all across the parties and representing different parts of India. PM Modi sat with us like a normal person, he did not sit there like a prime minister..and then prime minister paid the bill. I am still unable to shake off the feelings," Murugan said. "Unforgettable moment of life," Murugan posted the video of having the lunch with PM Modi with a special note. Modi later posted pictures of their meal together and said, "Enjoyed a sumptuous lunch, made even better thanks to the company of parliamentary colleagues from various parties and different parts of India." BJP MP Heena Gavit said she was a little tensed when she got to know that PM Modi was looking for her. "When I reached there, a few other MPs of other parties were already there...We met the PM. He greeted us with a smile. He said that he was taking us somewhere. We followed him and he took us to the MPs' canteen in the Parliament House...When we reached there, the MPs who were already having meals there were a little shocked to see the PM there. There, the PM told us that he had invited us for lunch. It was a very shocking but a very memorable experience...This is an experience that we will remember all our life." the BJP MP said. New Delhi: Prime Minister PV Narsimha Rao was a key catalyst in resurrecting Pranab Mukherjees career in the Congress party. Rao appointed Mukherjee, who was marginalized by Rajiv Gandhi, first as the deputy chairman of Planning Commission in 1991 and then as Commerce minister in 1993. Three years later, when Rao was arrested by Delhi Police in October 1996 on charges of corruption, it was Mukherjees wife Geeta who gave surety and secured his bail. The intertwined legacy of the two Congress stalwarts reached another milestone on Friday. Five years after Mukherjee was conferred the countrys highest civilian honour 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on X, Delighted to share that our former Prime Minister, Shri PV Narasimha Rao Garu, will be honoured with the Bharat Ratna. It is interesting to note that both the Congress stalwarts honoured by the Modi government had a strained relationship with some in the Gandhi family . Mukherjee could never become the Prime Minister and his daughter Sharmisthas book on her father has him telling a journalist that he had no expectation that Sonia Gandhi would make him the prime minister. When Rao died in December 2004, his family members appeal to bring the body at the AICC headquarters was ruthlessly denied by powerful loyalists of then Congress president Sonia Gandhi. Raos son Prabhakara wanted his father to be cremated in his karmabhoomi Delhi. That too, was denied. Also Read: Narasimha Rao, Charan Singh, Swaminathan to get Indias highest civilian honour For years, Raos legacy especially in backing Indias economic reforms was deliberately overlooked. The party didnt celebrate his birthday for years and his achievements were not a part of the Congress narrative. For decades, the Congress headquarters at 24, Akbar Road didnt sport a single portrait of Rao anywhere within its sprawling premises. Sharmistha, Mukherjees daughter, posted on X, A fitting tribute to three legends-- Dr. MS Swaminathan, Ch.Charan Singh & PV Narasimha Rao by conferring #BharatRatna. Im specially thrilled about Rao. A former PM &CP, he was marginalised within his own party & humiliated even after death as his body was not allowed 2 enter Cong HQ. Its ironical that tributes to Congress stalwarts (including my father) are coming from @BJP4India Govt. Really gracious of @narendramodi govt. to bestow such honours to leaders belonging to opposition parties. This a tribute to the core values of parliamentary democracy, she tweeted. Things changed when Manmohan Singh, who served Rao as finance minister, became the PM in 2004. Raos legacy came to the forefront with Singhs rise as a political leader. Singh, for a change, never shied away from giving his political mentor due credit. The NDA governments decision to confer Bharat Ratna to the Congress stalwart is not bereft of political connotations. It underlines how the ruling dispensation is ready to make a distinction between Gandhi family members or dynasts and others. The announcement also comes after the Congress won Telangana and Karnataka and the BJP, out of power in south Indian states, is keen to make inroads on the other side of the Vindhyas Abbas Ganbay The Western Azerbaijan Community has responded to the provocative statement of the U.S. Embassy about the February 7 extraordinary presidential elections, Azernews reports. "The statement of the U.S. Embassy on the February 7 extraordinary presidential elections is a manifestation of disrespect for the will of the Azerbaijani people and rudeness that contradicts elementary diplomatic ethics," the community said. The response notes that the statement of the country that has never condemned Armenia's 30-year occupation policy, the ethnic cleansing committed, the words of "democrat" Defence Minister Nikol Pashinyan and "genius commander" David Tonoyan in Washington, threatening Azerbaijan with "a new war for new territories", and has not even mentioned the right of return of Western Azerbaijanis, sounds extremely ridiculous. "If American diplomats attach such importance to the OSCE recommendations, we first of all urge them to familiarise themselves with the recommendations of this organisation for the US presidential elections in November 2020. That report specifically notes that the recommendations included in previous OSCE reports have never been implemented. We urge American diplomats to refrain from hypocrisy," the response of the Western Azerbaijan Community reads. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. President of the Foundation for Ethnic Understanding of the US Rabbi Marc Schneier congratulated President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on a confident victory in the extraordinary presidential election, Trend reports. Will be updated New Delhi: Sharmistha Mukherjee, the daughter of former president Pranab Mukherjee, on Friday accused Congress supporters of viciously trolling her on social media for questioning the role of the Gandhi family in an interview last week. She said the trolls said nasty things to her with "sexual connotations". Former president (late) Pranab Mukherjee and his daughter Sharmistha Mukherjee.(PTI file photo) "Ever since the book on my father came out...Congress social media and some of the Congress leaders also had been speaking against it. Congress social media had been viciously trolling me," she said. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Referring to her remark on the sidelines of the Jaipur Literature Fest that the Congress should look beyond the Gandhi family for leadership, she said she has been facing all kinds of abuses since the interview. "I made it very clear that I am a Congressperson, Congress still has a lot of importance to play in national politics. But the Congress should look beyond the leadership of the Gandhi-Nehru family...Since then all hell broke loose. All kinds of abuses had been heaped upon me. Not only that, dragging my father, the whole contention of that argument as if Congress is like a zamindari of the Gandhi-Nehru family...," she said. Mukherjee claimed a supporter followed by senior Congress leaders said nasty things about her on social media. Also read: Bharat Ratna: PV Narasimha Rao's grandson, BJP attack Gandhi family "Yesterday, there has been one Congress supporter...he is followed by very senior leaders of Congress...He went berserk, saying all kinds of nasty things...nasty things having sexual connotations...I responded to that tagging Jairam Ramesh, Supriya Shrinate, Rahul Gandhi, Congress handle. But there hasn't been any response. So, then I decided to write this open letter to Congress, to Rahul Gandhi and tweeted it...I also tagged Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge," she added. What Sharmistha Mukherjee said last week On last Monday, Mukherjee, who penned a book on her interactions with the late Congress leader, said she is worried about the party. "But as a Congress supporter and a responsible citizen, I am worried about the party. And certainly the time has come to look outside the Nehru-Gandhi family for leadership," Sharmistha Mukherjee said. "The Congress should introspect whether it is truly upholding its ideology forward today. Are pluralism, secularism, tolerance, inclusivity, freedom of expression, which have been at the core of Congress, being followed in practice?" she added. With inputs from PTI, ANI On being asked to comment on the announcement of Bharat Ratna to former PMs Narasimha Rao, Chaudhary Charan Singh, and scientist MS Swaminathan, former Congress president Sonia Gandhi said, "I welcome them. Why not?". Sonia Gandhi reacted to Bharat Ratna announcements made on Friday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi made the announcements on his X account through three different posts remembering the contribution of the three stalwarts. Reactions started pouring in as these are the latest adding to the list Lal Krishna Advani and Karpoori Thakur -- total five people have been awarded Bharat Ratna this year. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. "It is the good fortune of our government that former Prime Minister of the country Chaudhary Charan Singh is being honoured with Bharat Ratna. This honour is dedicated to his incomparable contribution to the country...," PM Modi wrote announcing Bharat Ratna to Charan Singh. On Narasimha Rao, PM Modi wrote, "Narasimha Rao Garus tenure as Prime Minister was marked by significant measures that opened India to global markets, fostering a new era of economic development." "It is a matter of immense joy that the Government of India is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dr. MS Swaminathan Ji, in recognition of his monumental contributions to our nation in agriculture and farmers welfare. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture during challenging times and made outstanding efforts towards modernizing Indian agriculture," PM Modi wrote on MS Swaminathan. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said every Indian respects the contribution of PV Narasimha Rao, Chaudhary Charan Singh and MS Swaminathan -- they were, are and will always be the gems (ratna) of India. "But the Modi government is silent on giving legal status to MSP based on Swaminathan's formula. Due to the stubbornness of PM Modi, 700 farmers were martyred during their movement. Even today, farmers are ready to march to Delhi," Jairam Ramesh wrote. Is Modi trying to play on the difference between the Gandhi family and Narasimha Rao: TMC leader Trinamool leader Kunal Ghosh said the party will officially comment on the Bharat Ratna announcements later on. "I don't want to make any comment but is there any politics behind Bharat Ratna to Narasimha Rao? There was a big difference between the Gandhi family and the late Narasimha Rao. Is Modi trying to play on that?" the Trinamool leader said. Stones were pelted in Uttar Pradesh's Bareilly on Friday after Muslim cleric Tauqeer Raza was detained by the police for giving a 'jail bharo' call over the recent developments in the Gyanvapi issue. Ittehad-e-Millat Council chief Tauqeer Raza on Thursday asked his followers to come out on the streets and get arrested by the police in protest against 'oppression against Muslims in the country'. Tauqeer Raza's 'jail bharo' march took place ahead of the afternoon namaz on Friday. Tauqeer Raza also criticised the bulldozing of the madrasa in Haldwani which led to a communal flare-up in the Uttarakhand town, close to Bareilly. Stones were pelted in the Shyamatganj market of Bareilly as Tauqeer Raza was detained for a brief period after he took out a jail bharo andolan. Tauqueer Raza was released shortly after. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Police were on alert ahead of the Tauqeer Raza's Jail Bharo Aandolan. Additional SP (city) Rahul Bhati said around 1,000 cops were deployed in Bareilly and special arrangements were made at every mosque. "We will not tolerate any bulldozer action any more. If the Supreme Court can not take care of us, we will take care of us. Now I am going to offer namaz. After that I will offer to be arrested," Tauqueer Raza said ahead of jail bharo andolan. The Varanasi court has recently allowed the Hindus to offer prayers in the Vyas ji ka tahkhana of Gyanvapi mosque in a landmark verdict on January 31. The Muslim side has moved the court against it but Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath in his recent speech in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly made it clear that temples will be built in Kashi and Mathura as they along with Ayodhya are part of the three centres of Hindu faith. Acting promptly on the jail bharo call, police sealed the Islamia College ground where Tauqeer Raza asked his followers to gather. But still thousand of supporters gathered near the ground and it took two hours for the administration to persuade them to return to their homes. Maulana Tauqeer Raza, a Barelvi cleric, is a direct descendant of Ahmed Raza Khan Barelvi, the founder of the Barelvi sect of Sunni Islam. (With PTI inputs) Three years after the abrogation of Article 370, Union home minister Amit Shah conducted two rallies in Jammu & Kashmir in 2022, one in Rajouri and another in Baramulla. The turnout in both was tremendous. Present in massive numbers were members of the Pahari community thousands came to cheer for Shah. It has been a long pending demand of the community to be made part of the Scheduled Tribe list. Amit Shah, during his Rajouri rally on October 4, had promised to provide the ST status to the Pahari community and had also assured that even one per cent share of Gujjars and Bakerwals wont go to the Paharis. He said, There was no reservation to Pahari community and Gujjars and Bakerwals were also neglected by three families for decades but Prime Minister Narendra Modi removed Article 370 that paved the way for development and reservation to the neglected and marginalized sections. Shah added that Justice GD Sharma's commission has sent its recommendations and has recommended reservations to all three communities. Prime Minister also wants to implement them at the earliest. Once the administrative process gets over, these communities will get the benefits of reservation, the Union home minister said. Two years on, the Centre has kept its promise despite strong opposition from the Gujjar and Bakarwal community who see Paharis as an empowered community. Gujjars live in remote parts of the region and dont have access to the basic facilities in their lives. However, the largely nomadic community are also influential in 10 to 12 assembly seats including Uri, Poonch Haveli, Surankote, Darhal, Rajouri, Budhal, Nowshera, Sunderbani, Reasi, Kangan, Inderwal and Reasi. On January 6, when Lok Sabha cleared the Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2024 to grant Scheduled Tribe status to Paharis, Padari Tribes, Koli & Gadda Brahmin the decision will benefit 1.5 million Paharis. Senior BJP leader and prominent Pahari, Raja Waqar said the party will benefit from this decision the community holds sway over eight to 12 assembly segments, such as Uri, Tanghdar, Baramulla, Rafiabad, Bandipore and Kupwara, Rajouri and Poonch. Every member of our community is indebted to party leadership for fulfilling this long pending demand, Waqar said. Former deputy chief minister of J&K, Muzaffar Hussain Baig, who is an influential leader of the Pahari community said that he was grateful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Shah and Lieutenant Governor of J&K Manoj Sinha for granting reservation. "Finally this dream has become a reality under the leadership of Narendra Modi, Baig said, adding that his message to everyone is that the rights of Gujjars won't be affected by the inclusion. It will have no impact on the current level of reservations available to Gujjars, Bakarwals and other tribes, who will continue to get reservations like before. After the bill is cleared in Rajya Sabha, the UT administration will issue necessary notifications ensuring that the people included in the existing list of Scheduled Tribes continue to get the same level of reservation, Lt Governor Sinha said. In J&K, the ST gets 10 percent reservation, and there are 12 tribes (Gujjar, Bakerwal, Gaddi, Sippi, Bota, Chandra, Sheena, Beda, Moon, Purigpa and Balti. The reservations apply to jobs, admission in educational institutions, political reservations in (panchayats, and urban local bodies), special grants and scholarships. Javeed Rahi, a scholar and researcher of the Gujjar community said that the distress in both communities is palpable. Though the government has assured them that this decision won't harm the reservation of Gujjars, many fear more changes in the future. The big could be seen on the Anantnag-Rajouri parliament seat and the BJP feels it would benefit from this decision, as Paharis have a good presence in this seat. The Gujjars havent rallied under any leader on political issues in the past, though leaders of the community have their own areas of influence and are affiliated with different political parties, Rahi said. Maqsood Ahmad, a prominent political analyst, said that the decision is likely to have some impact in the Jammu region. I don't see Paharis voting en masse for the BJP after this decision but the party has gained sympathy among the community. Whether it will translate into votes can't be said (just yet). So far, all parties including the National Conference, the Peoples Democratic Party, the Congress and the BJP are playing it safe and saying little to annoy either of the communities keeping in mind their numerical strength that will play a decisive role in the upcoming elections. The BJP even issued directions to its leaders that they must not celebrate the decision as it could hurt the sentiments of other communities, especially the Gujjars. Soon after the Lok Sabha passed the bill, NC vice president Omar Abdullah endorsed the speech of NC MP from south Kashmir Hasnain Masoodi who spoke in the Parliament on this bill. Masoodi said that his party had given 4% reservation to Paharis in the state. The rights of the Gujjar-Bakerwal must not be diluted, and BJP should come clear on how it plans to implement the reservation without affecting the rights of the Gujjar community, he said. A prominent BJP leader spoke on the condition of anonymity and said that the leaders have been asked not to speak on this issue. "We have been asked by our party to keep low. Once we go into the field, people will follow us in large numbers. Prior to this decision, many senior Pahari community leaders had made a commitment that once they got the ST status, they would join the BJP. The time has come to keep the commitment. This helps explain how she picks her projects small roles in films that gleam. It also helps explain her Instagram descriptor, which declares in all-caps that she isnt open to paid partnerships or ads. I have a lot of respect for people who (monetise Instagram), but I dont feel like I have to participate in this as well, she says. Kusruti has over 240,000 followers anyway. She is a woman on the move. She recently played Kirtima, the other woman, in the Netflix series Killer Soup, directed by Abhishek Chaubey. Her other recent release, Girls Will Be Girls, won two awards at the Sundance Film Festival in Utah last month. Director Shuchi Talatis debut traces an unlikely emotional love triangle between a young mother (Anila, played by Kusruti), her teenage daughter, and a boy who has recently joined her daughters school. In the world of Killer Soup, which has some delicious characters, I thought Kirtima was the least interesting. For me, the bigger draw was the opportunity to work with Abhishek whose work I have always loved, she says. (Chaubeys films have included the critically acclaimed Sonchiriya and Udta Punjab.) I was a little intimidated by him initially, she adds, but came away absolutely charmed. Hes the kind of director who can extract a performance out of anyone. Thats a modest thing to say. She stands out in the rather pitchy Killer Soup. And while Talatis directorial prowess shapes Girls Will Be Girls, Kusruti stands out again, subtle, authentic and almost menacing in her loneliness and yearning. Shuchi was very gentle when it came to helping me find Anilas character in Girls Will Be Girls. She got me started on things like the physicality how Anila would walk or sit, Kusruti says. Her mainstream success has been a long time coming. Kusruti made her debut in the Malayalam anthology film Kerala Cafe, in 2009. Small roles in Malayalam films such as Shikkar (2010), where she played a Naxalite, and Cocktail (2010), where she played a sex worker, followed. Her turn as a lawyer looking for her brothers killers in the 2015 Malayalam thriller series Eswaran Sakshiyayi made her a household name in Kerala. Then came Sajin Baabus Biriyaani (2019), in which she played Khadeeja, a dissatisfied wife who settled scores in a most unusual way. That role earned her a Best Actress trophy at the Kerala State Film Awards, and Best Actor Female at the BRICS Film Festival held on the sidelines of the Moscow International Film Festival in 2020. *** Speaking from her home in Panaji, Kusruti makes a confession. Its not reflected in her filmography, but she yearns to do comedy, she says. I am hardly ever offered a comedic part, but if I was, Id do it without thinking twice. As for the projects she has taken on, some she chose in order to be part of an interesting ensemble. When I made Eswaran Sakshiyayi, I was living in Mumbai and shooting the serial gave me a chance to return to Kerala. And sometimes you work only because theres no better way to practise your craft and earn money. Kusruti puts her pragmatism down to her parents. Her father is the activist Maitreya Maitreyan; her mother, Dr Jayasree AK, is a professor of community medicine, a social activist and an author. They live in the village of Cheruvakkal in Thiruvananthapuram district. My parents arent married. I call them by their names. People see my childhood as unconventional, but to me, it was just regular, she says. I also grew up around my grandparents, who had a lot of conservative values. No one forced their beliefs on anyone. I went to temples though my parents were atheists. She was 10 when her father enrolled her in a theatre workshop conducted locally by Footsbarn, a British touring company. Five years later, she was offered her first role, in a contemporary Malayalam adaption of the 7th-century Sanskrit farce Bhagavadajjukam. Kusruti fell in love with the stage. It really helps give you clarity. You become more grounded and everything else fades away. The process of doing a play also involves interacting with a lot of people and I think it made me a better person; I understood myself more, she says. At 17, she picked her own last name. Kusruti is Malayalam for Mischievous. Her father had picked his own last name too: Maitreyan is Sanskrit for Compassionate. (Her mother opted to shorten her last name to initials; the aim in all three cases being to erase the social signalling that surnames provide.) Kusruti then enrolled at the School of Drama and Fine Arts in Thrissur, moved on to LEcole Internationale de Theatre Jacques Lecoq in Paris. She learnt to immerse herself in plot and setting. We were taught to just get into the space and act. If the external is in place, then the internalisation of the character should occur naturally. This is very similar to the approach involved in our traditional art forms, such as Koodiyattam and Kathakali. Kusruti believes this approach has made her more malleable as an actor, able to adapt to a range of cinematic styles. So much of Biriyaani was shot guerrilla-style, in public spaces. Sajin often couldnt even shout Action and Cut. He would just nod to signal that the camera was rolling. So, he couldnt give me explicit direction. He just let me be, she says. Shuchi was very gentle when it came to helping me find Anilas character. I had thought shed go from internal to external but she got me started on Anilas physicality how she would walk or sit. And Abhishek first wants to see what his actors can bring to a scene, and points out only what you might be missing. There is one constant between her and her characters, one that she cannot do without, she adds, and it is empathy. Even when someone wrongs my parents, they try to understand the why. So, the characters neednt be good people. But they do have to contain elements of nuance and humanity. Kusrutis next role will be that of a forest officer in Kerala, in the Amazon Prime drama series Poacher, directed by Richie Mehta and due for release this year. Though I have a short role, I think the character is shaped very well, she says. But first, she will take a few months off to recharge. Id like to do some kind of refresher before heading back to work, Kusruti says. Like any craft, its important to learn, practise and unlearn. As with any job, you should continue honing your skills. Chinese engineer and aviation enthusiast Wei Meng is exactly the kind of visitor the tourism authorities in Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand are looking for. Travellers check departure flights information on a display at the Beijing Capital International Airport. Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore hope to lure tourists from China with visa-free travel. (File Photo by REUTERS/Florence Lo) After Singapore scrapped visas for Chinese citizens, Wei, 44, said he ditched plans to go to Australia and booked a six-day holiday there instead. He said he also looked into visiting Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur, the two other visa-free Southeast Asian countries, but decided on the city-state because of the Singapore Airshow, which opens to the public on Feb 24. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. As thousands of Chinese prepare to go abroad during the first Spring Festival holiday since Beijing lifted pandemic travel restrictions last year, Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia are hoping their unprecedented visa waivers will lure a large proportion of these visitors - and their much-needed spending. Chinese travellers often complain about the length of time and the hassle it takes for them to obtain travel visas, and their passport is 62nd on the Henley Passport Index, which ranks the passports of 199 countries according to the number of destinations their holders can access without a prior visa. While waiving visas can make a destination more attractive, China's slowing economic growth, job uncertainties and decline in income this year are likely to temper any outbound travel, analysts say. "There is a feeling that the economic hardships and lack of disposable income are hitting much harder than in other parts of the world and that any travel is therefore staying within China where costs are lower," said John Grant, chief analyst at travel data firm OAG, adding that the three Southeast Asian countries "may be looking for the trickles." BIG SPENDERS Before the pandemic, Chinese tourists were a vital source of revenue, accounting for more than a quarter of all holiday makers to Thailand in 2019. Chinese visitors were also the top spenders in Singapore, splashing out over S$4 billion ($3 billion) that same year. Even though fewer Chinese are travelling than before the pandemic, Chinese account for the bulk of visitors to Thailand, which launched its visa waiver in September, and tourism authorities there say they expect 177,000 Chinese tourists for the Lunar New Year holiday, more than three-times 2023 levels. "The direction has been good since the visa free programme," said Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, deputy governor at the Tourism Authority of Thailand. "It's starting to get back to pre-pandemic levels." Malaysia's visa-free deal for Chinese started in December, and it is hoping to attract 5-7 million Chinese visitors this year, which would be almost double pre-pandemic levels. For the Lunar New Year, hotels including those under The Ascott Limited group, are launching promotions such as discounts and special activities and snacks for the festival. Because of its status as an Asian air traffic hub, Singapore is ahead of its Southeast Asian rivals in flying in Chinese visitors, with the number of direct flights connecting mainland China rising nearly 5% this month from the same month in 2019. Both Malaysia and Thailand still have far fewer direct flights: 33% and 17% less than 2019 levels respectively, data from aviation analytics firm Cirium shows. ($1 = 35.5200 baht) ($1 = 1.3428 Singapore dollars) The ascendance of Surat as the cleanest city in India, announced last month, has multiple narratives. First, it makes the chaotic task of city sanitation an achievable goal for Indias 5,000 urban local bodies (ULBs). The cleanest city tag is no longer the exclusive preserve of Indore, which lifted the crown with predictable regularity soon after Swachh Survekshan was instituted by the ministry of housing and urban affairs (MoHUA) in 2016. The city of Ahilyabai Holkar with its six-bin segregation of waste remains a pole star but now has to share the top spot with Surat. Two, it is vindication time for a city that saw the plague and resulting exodus just three decades ago; the epidemic was attributed, ironically, to the citys garbage dumps. Surat has since shown resolute intention in sanitation practices and finished second in the past three years before catching up with Indore. The badge of the cleanest city in India will accentuate its already impressive growth as it did for Indore. Three, its win indicates that the democratisation of sanitation is happening. Most cities and towns are now part of this annual survey compared to less than 75 at the start. Swachh Survekshan has established itself as among the largest and most credible surveys in the world, offering a red carpet annually on which every city and state wants to walk. Transparent parameters, robust third-party verification, and rigour of assessment have given it a character. The Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) and MoHUA deserve credit for this. Navi Mumbai follows Indore and Surat among large cities. The top three among smaller cities are Saswad and Lonavala from Maharashtra and Patan from Chhattisgarh. Maharashtra is ranked the best performing state followed by Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. Varanasi and Prayagraj are the cleanest Ganga towns, reflecting the ongoing efforts for rejuvenating centres of pilgrimage and cultural heritage. Awarding Chandigarh as the best Safaimitra Surakshit Shehar presents the human as well as technological side of new age sanitation transition from manhole to machine hole to quote finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The aim is to see 100% mechanical desludging of septic tanks and sewers so that casualties from unsafe methods are eliminated. Over 2,000 cities are already in this mode. Sanitation findings in the national Capital region have a predictable text including the downward slide of Gurugram. The Millennium City was in the headlines last year for garbage piles, strikes by sanitation workers, and source segregation not taking off even in elite residential areas. Contracts for waste remediation never saw a smooth run. The Bandhwari dumpsite stands as a monument of waste mismanagement despite the Green Tribunals constant monitoring. On the other hand, New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), Noida and even Ghaziabad bettered their rank suggesting that large municipalities are upping their sanitation game. Within the national Capital, it is not surprising that NDMC has an all-India rank of seven as against the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD)s 90. A walk through the areas serviced by the two agencies informs the difference. The rankings will hopefully trigger action, and not a blame game. Wholesome city sanitation is yet to become a pan-India movement as improvements are largely concentrated around the western and central parts of the country. Cities and towns in the higher range are competing among themselves and moving up and down. During the proliferation of toilets in the first phase of SBM, certain districts and states were quick to meet targets whereas eastern and northern regions required more time and follow-ups. This also suggests that communities like to maintain their rank after reaching an aspirational state of cleanliness. Areas that have a solid safe sanitation status are better placed to take up solid and liquid waste management. Core services such as waste segregation, recovery, and processing remain key measures of city sanitation and are given 50% weightage in the survey. Sustainability and usage are other determinants that make certification important. With community and public toilets in focus, MoHUA just concluded a month-long clean toilets challenge to identify the best models. Basic to the approach of SBM is that ordinary citizens have a part to play in the evaluation. More than 15 million people gave feedback; 4,000 trained evaluators went from ward to ward to improve the Survekshan. From the disposal of waste, urban sanitation has now moved to converting waste to wealth, the theme of the 2023 survey. This sees urban waste as part of the circular economy and links it further with environmental sustainability and the global mission of Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE). Last year, SBM Urban piloted a meaningful community campaign reduce, reuse and recycle. Appropriately, these 3Rs are the theme of the next Survekshan. The previous years budget provided for 500 new waste-to-wealth plants, several of which combine waste disposal with clean energy generation. With an outlay of 1,416,780 million for the second phase of SBM Urban, finances are no issue; delivery rests on local bodies. By 2047, about half of Indias population will reside in urban areas. These areas need to be kept clean. Looking around, the goal of a garbage-free India by 2026 may appear challenging but it is not impossible, just as India could achieve saturation of its toilet programme at a dramatic speed. Swachh Survekshan will keep everyone alert. For now, Indias urban sanitation journey deserves to be celebrated. Akshay Rout is a former director general, Swachh Bharat Mission. The views expressed are personal Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Friday he had ordered the military to develop a dual plan to evacuate civilians from Rafah in southern Gaza and to defeat the remaining Hamas battalions, as international pressure on Israel mounts. Israel-Hamas War: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu(Reuters) Israel on Friday launched a deadly air strike on Rafah, the last part of the enclave where Gazans have found refuge, despite criticism of its offensive by U.S. President Joe Biden and aid groups' warnings of a high death toll among Palestinians if it advances into the city. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. International concern about the fate of hundreds of thousands of displaced Gazans sheltering in Rafah has risen since Israel threatened a ground assault on the city, on the border with Egypt. Washington said on Thursday it would not support any Israeli military operation launched in Rafah without due consideration for the plight of civilians, and Biden described Israel's response to the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks as "over the top". (Reporting by Emily Rose) Pakistan Elections 2024: Pakistan awaits the results of a general election which is witnessing a faceoff between two former prime ministers of the country- jailed Imran Khan and back-from-exile Nawaz Sharif. But the former's party has claimed, time and again, that the elections are being altered in favour of Nawaz Sharif who is seeking a record fourth term. Imran Khan's party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party (PTI) claimed that Nawaz Sharif should be ashamed of himself for stealing public mandate as the election body of the country is counting votes. Pakistan Elections 2024: A supporter walks past a poster of imprisoned leader Pakistan's Former Prime Minister Imran Khan display at his party office, in Islamabad, Pakistan.(AP) Sharing a document on X (formerly Twitter), Imran Khan's party PTI said that "the number of total valid votes (in NA 130 Lahore constituency where Nawaz Sharif contested) is greater than total number of votes casted". In another post, the party alleged, "Unusual number of votes rejected in NA-151 (more than 2x the winning margin)". Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Member National Assembly, NA-48, Mohsin Dawar said on X, The Presiding officer and staff at GPS Haji Fateh Khan Kot polling station in my constituency NA-40 North Waziristan have been stuffing ballots very openly and brazenly for PTI's Aurangzeb Khan." Such blatant rigging should be a matter of shame for the ECP, he added. Pakistan Elections 2024: What do latest results show? News agency AFP reported that the latest results showed PTI loyalists had so far won around 49 seats in the 266-member national assembly against 42 for the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and 34 for the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). Just over half of constituencies have been called and most of the seats won by PTI-backed candidates were in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Unofficial tallies on local TV stations had independents in the lead for many of the seats up for grabs, it was reported. Gazas southernmost town, Rafah, is bursting at the seams. Nearly the last place spared an Israeli offensive so far, Rafah's population has more than quintupled with Palestinians streaming in to escape fighting. They pack by the dozens into apartments. Sidewalks and once-empty lots are clogged with tents full of families. Israeli air strike on the southern Lebanese village of Khiam (AFP)(AFP) Panic and despair are rising after Israel said it intends to attack Rafah next. The estimated 1.5 million people sheltering there more than half of Gazas population -- have nowhere to flee in the face of an offensive that has leveled large swaths of the urban landscape in the rest of the territory. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Some are just sick of running. Were exhausted. Seriously, were exhausted. Israel can do whatever it wants. Im sitting in my tent. Ill die in my tent, said Jihan al-Hawajri, who fled multiple times from the far north down the length of the Gaza Strip and now lives with 30 relatives in a tent. U.N. officials warn that an attack on Rafah will be catastrophic, with more than 600,000 children there in the path of an assault. A move on the town and surrounding area also could cause the collapse of the humanitarian aid system struggling to keep Gazas population alive. Israel says it must take Rafah to ensure Hamas' destruction. On Friday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the military to come up with an evacuation plan after the United States said it opposes an attack on Rafah unless provisions are made for its population. To conduct such an operation right now with no planning and little thought in an area where there is sheltering of a million people would be a disaster, State Department spokesman Vedant Patel told reporters Thursday. This is not something that wed support, Still, Washington has continued its whole-hearted military and diplomatic support for Israels campaign despite Israel shrugging off its previous calls to reduce civilian casualties. In response to those calls, Israel widened its evacuation orders as its forces moved south yet the death toll in Gaza has continued to mount. Israel says Hamas is responsible for concentrating its forces in civilian areas. But it's unclear where civilians would evacuate. Rafah lies trapped between Egypt to the south, the Mediterranean Sea to the west, Israel to its east and Israeli troops to its north. Earlier in the war, Israel declared a sliver of rural area on the coast neighboring Rafah, known as Muwasi, to be a safe zone. But in recent weeks it has bombarded the zone and sent troops to seize parts of it. Many Palestinians in Rafah came from Gaza City and other parts of the north and want to return there. But so far Israel has shown no willingness to allow a mass movement back north, where it says its troops largely have operational control but still fight pockets of Hamas fighters. Egypt has staunchly refused any mass exodus of Palestinians onto its soil, fearing Israel will not allow them to return. Israel is not likely to let hundreds of thousands of Palestinians take shelter on its own territory. A large area of empty dunes between the town of Rafah and the sea is now built up with a dense tent city erected by those streaming in over the past month. When winter rains hit, the area turns to cold mud, seeping into tents full of extended families with children. Women hang up bedding on clotheslines in the morning to keep them dry during the day, then lay them on the ground at night to sleep. In Rafah town itself, the main squares and streets are full of tents. Other families fill classrooms at U.N. schools or crowd with relatives in apartments. Everyone is hungry and sick; colds, coughs and intestinal disorders run rampant. Even simple medicines are difficult to find, requiring an hourslong wait at the pharmacy. The supply chain for everything from canned food and flour to diapers comes almost entirely from the trickle of aid trucks that Israel allows into Gaza for distribution by the U.N. and other humanitarian groups. Large impromptu outdoor markets packed with people fill main avenues as many sell parts of allotments they receive. With such a limited supply, prices have skyrocketed. A chocolate bar that once went for the equivalent of 50 U.S. cents now costs $5; a single egg can cost nearly $1. Groups of young men can sometimes be seen hanging around intersections, waiting for aid trucks to pass. They leap on the back and slash the ropes with knives to pull off bags of flour to sell or give to their families. U.N. officials say 90% of Gazas population is eating less than one meal a day, and a quarter of the population faces outright famine, mainly in the north, where Israeli restrictions have blocked many aid convoys. Rafah is the heart of the aid campaign, with trucks entering from Egypt or from a nearby Israeli crossing for distribution across the Gaza Strip. Any large-scale military operation among this population can only lead to additional layers of endless tragedy, Philippe Lazzarini, head of UNRWA, the main agency leading the humanitarian effort, told The Associated Press. Israel has vowed to eliminate Hamas throughout the Gaza Strip after the groups Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel, in which some 1,200 people were killed and the militants abducted some 250 hostages over 100 of whom remain in captivity. Netanyahu said Wednesday that preparations were underway for the military to move on Rafah, though he did not say when. We are on the way to an absolute victory, he said. There is no other solution. The Israeli onslaught has killed nearly 28,000 Palestinians and left much of northern Gaza a devastated wasteland. For weeks, fighting has focused on central Gaza and the southern city of Khan Younis, where bombardment and ground fighting has wreaked similar destruction. In recent days, Israeli bombardment of Rafah has escalated. On Friday, strikes leveled two buildings, killing at least eight, including three children and a woman. In the tent city, Najah Hasheasho said the wooden frame draped with plastic that her family lives in shakes every time a blast hits the area. We want to go back to Gaza City. Thats our home, she said. A neighbor in the camp, Nahed Abu Asi, said that like many, he believes Israel wants to push the population into Egypt permanently. We wont go into Egypt," he said. "Well make our way back to Gaza City and die there or in any place on the soil of Gaza. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Kazakhstan hailed with great enthusiasm the news of the victory of incumbent President Ilham Aliyev in the extraordinary presidential election with the overwhelming support of voters, an expert, candidate of the philosophical sciences, and director of the Center of Political Studies at the Institute of Philosophy, Political Science, and Religious Studies of Kazakhstan Aydar Amrebayev told Trend. "First and foremost, I want to congratulate the Azerbaijani people on Ilham Aliyev's victory in the presidential election. This is a well-deserved and worthy victory. I believe this outcome was to be expected, as President Ilham Aliyev demonstrated himself to be an effective and universally recognized leader of the country, achieving the return of Azerbaijan's ancestral lands while also making a significant contribution to the dynamic socioeconomic development of the Azerbaijani people. I am convinced that his name will be written in golden letters in the annals of national history," he said. He mentioned that it was during the period of the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev in Azerbaijan that bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan were and are flourishing. Nowadays, both states are among the most proactive in the implementation of the Union of Turkic States project, linking ties between the peoples of a single Turkic root in the South Caucasus and Central Asia. "At the same time, in the actual portfolio of implemented projects, we can note the interested work of the leadership of our countries to establish the Trans-Caspian international transport route, which will allow our states to become an effective transport and logistics hub between East and West," the expert added. Stay up to date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Switzerland's hospitality management school- EHL Hospitality Business- closed its campus in Lausanne after cases of measles were reported in students. The school said in a statement on its website, We have been compelled to close the Lausanne campus from Feb. 3 to Feb. 18 inclusive. Switzerland Measles Outbreak: A vial of a measles, mumps and rubella vaccine is seen.(AP) Measles outbreak in Switzerland: What has the school said? The school will reopen on February 19, the statement informed without revealing how many students were infected by measles. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. The students are currently isolated and recovering under medical care, it said. Since January, six students have contracted measles and about 20 others have had symptoms, local media reports claimed. We have a responsibility to take all possible measures to limit possible spread, and after careful consideration, closing the campus is the best guarantee of this, head of the EHL Group, Markus Venzin, said. Measles outbreak in Switzerland: Other measures being taken Additionally, the vaccination status of all students, staff and teachers on campus will be checked. "If necessary, get vaccinated and limit social interactions in the coming days, especially with people at risk," the school said. Measles- a highly contagious viral infectious disease- is transmitted via droplets when infected people cough or sneeze. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose or inflammation in the nose and throat, followed by a rash. Measles can be prevented with two doses of vaccine. Feb 9, 2024 9:26 AM IST Pakistan Election Result 2024 Live: PML-Ns Marriyum Aurangzeb has said that the party will form the government in the Centre and Punjab. Inshallah, Pakistan Muslim League (N) will form the government in the Federation and Punjab and a new era of public service will begin. The results of the election cell of the party continue to arrive. Due to non-availability of mobile and internet services, it became difficult to get the results. The position of Muslim League (N) is strong. By the grace and grace of Allah Almighty, Pakistan Muslim League (N) will fulfill its solemn commitment to serve the people and relieve them from their problems as always, she wrote on X. In a post on X, she said that the results were still being received by the partys election cell. Due to the unavailability of mobile and internet services, it became difficult to get the results, she said, adding that the partys position was strong. Pakistan Elections 2024: Jailed former prime minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party said that it will not form an alliance with Nawaz Sharif's party Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz as it is in a position to form a government on its own. Pakistan Elections 2024: Campaign posters from political parties are displayed on a street in Karachi, Pakistan.(AP) (Tune in to Pak Election results Live Updates) Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. What results so far show? This comes after independent candidates backed by Imran Khan's party won 55 out of the 139 National Assembly seats in results announced by the election commission so far. The PML-N has bagged 43 seats. To secure a simple majority out of the total 336 seats, 169 seats are needed. What PTI party said on alliance with Nawaz Sharif? PTI chairman Barrister Gohar Khan said as per Geo News, "We are not in contact with PPP or PML-N. Claiming that his party will win 150 seats and would be able to form the government, he said, We are not intending to form a coalition government with PPP and PML-N. We will form the government at the Centre and Punjab. PTI has a clear lead in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and will form a government there as well, he said, asserting, PTI will remain in Parliament and will play its role. What PTI party said on horse trading of independents? Asked if independent candidates will support him, he said that they would not join any party against party directives after PML-N leader Ishaq Dar claimed that independent candidates, who have won, are in contact with his party. "The independents have contacted us and they will join any party in the next 72 hours as per the Constitution," he said. Ishaq Dar said as per Geo News that PML-N cannot force anyone to join the party but they are being contacted by candidates who are willing to join their party. In an indirect goodwill message to India, Pakistan's former premier Nawaz Sharif on Friday said that his government would try to improve relations with the neighbouring countries. Pakistan's former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif (R) and leader of the Pakistan Muslim League (PML) party, next to his daughter Maryam Nawaz (AFP)(AFP) Sharifs Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) technically emerged the single largest party in the National Assembly despite the fact that the number of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf supported independent candidates was higher than any political party. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. "We would improve ties with the world and with our neighbours and try to solve all issues with them (neighbours)," the 74-year-old former three-time premier said. He asked his supporters if they agree with his point of view (regarding ties with neighbours), and hundreds of supporters present to hear him apparently backed him with a roar. While Sharif stopped mentioning India directly in his speech, the use of word "neighbours" could hardly be missed as Sharif in his previous tenures also tried to mend ties with India. However, terror attacks on Indian defence installations by Pakistan-based terrorists derailed the Indo-Pak relations. Sharif made the speech as the complete result of the 265 contested seats of the National Assembly was still awaited. According to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), the results of 224 constituencies have been declared, showing that independents won 92 seats, PML-N 63, PPP 50, Muttahida Qaumi Movement 12 and other parties got 7 seats. The independents were supported by the PTI and they could join any party after elections except the PTI because its intra-party elections were declared null and void and it was deprived of a common symbol before elections. Pakistan Elections 2024: Pakistan's former prime minister Nawaz Sharif claimed victory in national elections saying that his party Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has emerged as the largest in the results. Pakistan Elections 2024: Pakistan's former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and leader of the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PMLN) party speaks to supporters in Lahore.(AFP) The PML-N supremo said that Pakistan needs to take active steps to come out of its current crisis for which all institutions should together play a positive role, without disclosing how many seats his party had won as counting was still underway in 265 seats that went to the polls. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. (Tune in to Pakistan Election Result 2024 Live) Nawaz Sharif said that his deputies will meet other political parties to talk about forming a coalition government. We dont have enough of a majority to form a government without the support of others and we invite allies to join the coalition so we can make joint efforts to pull Pakistan out of its problems, he said. This comes after his party's senior leader said that they will seek talks with rival Bilawal Bhutto Zardaris group on forming a coalition in Pakistan. Nawaz Sharif's close aide Ishaq Dar made the comments on local television channel Samaa TV. PML-N is in a position to form a government and will win close to 90 out of the 265 seats up for grabs, he said. Pakistan Elections 2024: What results show so far? Results have been announced for 156 National Assembly seats. As per the election commission of the country, candidates backed by Imran Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party won 62 seats so far while the Pakistan Muslim League of Nawaz Sharif secured 46 seats. Results of 110 more seats are still pending and any party would need 169 seats for a government forming majority. Pakistan Elections 2024: When will full results be announced? The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) said that the delay in results was due to a day-long mobile network shutdown imposed by the government during voting. The slow process resulted in allegations by Imran Khan's party that ballots were being tampered with in order to ensure Nawaz Sharif's victory in the elections. Pakistan Elections 2024: As Pakistan awaits elections results, country's election commission said that independent candidates backed by jailed Imran Khan were leading even as supports of the former prime minister claimed that the ballots were being manipulated to favour Nawaz Sharif and his party. Imran Khan was disqualified from running in the election because of criminal convictions which he said were politically motivated. Pakistan Elections 2024: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) supporters gather to celebrate the victory of a provincial assembly candidate in Karachi.(AFP) But what are Pakistanis up to? Sharing memes and here are the best ones: Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Pakistan Elections 2024: What results show so far? Of the 156 National Assembly results announced, candidates backed by Imran Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party won 62 seats while the Pakistan Muslim League of Nawaz Sharif secured 46 seats. Pakistan Elections 2024: What hangs in the balance? Results of 110 more seats are still pending but PTI Chairman Gohar Khan told Pakistani news channel Geo that the party would not need outside support or alliances to form a government. Any party needs 169 seats are required for a majority. The White House launched a fierce fightback Friday against a devastating special counsel report that criticized Joe Biden's failing memory, describing it as a political hit-job on the president in an election year. US President Joe Biden (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)(AP) US Vice President Kamala Harris led the charge to deal with the fallout after the investigation cleared Biden of illegally retaining classified documents but delivered a damning description of him as a "well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory". Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. The 81-year-old Democrat responded angrily in a nighttime press conference Thursday to insist his "memory is fine" -- although he then compounded the problem by briefly mixing up the presidents of Egypt and Mexico. "The way that the president's demeanor in that report was characterized could not be more wrong on the facts and (was) clearly politically motivated," Harris said when asked about special counsel Robert Hur's report. Her comments marked a new line of attack for Biden and the White House, turning from criticism of the report to questioning the motives of the special prosecutor himself. Hur was appointed by Republican then-president Donald Trump to be US Attorney for the District of Maryland in 2017 before being named by Biden's attorney general Merrick Garland as special counsel in the documents case. With questions swirling about Biden's mental acuity as he seeks a second term, the spotlight is also on Harris as she would be first in line to succeed as president should he resign or be incapacitated. Both Biden and Harris are suffering from stingingly low approval ratings as they campaign for another four years in the White House, most likely against Trump. 'Gratuitous and inappropriate' The White House separately slammed the "gratuitous and inappropriate criticisms". The spokesman for the White House Counsel's Office Ian Sams stopped short of saying Hur was partisan but suggested he felt under pressure to "go beyond his remit" because of the polarized US political situation. "When the inevitable conclusion is that the facts and the evidence don't support any charges, you're left to wonder why this report spends time making gratuitous and inappropriate criticisms of the president," spokesperson Ian Sams told a briefing. "We're in a very pressurized political environment. And when you are the first special counsel in history not to indict anybody, there is pressure to criticize." Republicans have called on Biden to resign. Trump, who faces criminal charges over his retention of classified documents and then refusal to cooperate with investigators, has accused the Department of Justice of double standards. The White House's Sams also played down suggestions that the report's age criticisms could hurt Biden in the polls in November, saying "I think the public is smart." Biden gave his own furious response from the White House on Thursday night, particularly lambasting the special counsel for claiming that he was unable to remember even the date of his son Beau's death in 2015. "To suggest that he couldn't remember when his son died is really out of bounds," added Sams. Prince Harry said that his mission to purge the press would continue "through to the end" as he accepted substantial damages to settle his case against Mirror Group Newspapers. The settlement vindicated his claims about the newspapers' behaviour, he said in a statement, adding, Everything we said was happening at Mirror Group was in fact happening, and indeed far worse as the Court ruled in its extremely damning judgement. Britain's Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, waves.(AP) The court had concluded in December that there had been widespread hacking and unlawful activities at Mirror Group Newspapers from 1996 until 2011, and Prince Harry was one of the claimants who sued the UK publisher. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Mirror Group Newspapers said it was pleased to have reached an agreement with Prince Harry and where historical wrongdoing took place, we apologise unreservedly, have taken full responsibility and paid compensation. Although Prince Harry said that his mission continues, in reference to lawsuits against publishers. Prince Harry has made similar allegations against Associated Newspapers, the publisher of the Daily Mail, and News Corp.'s British newspaper arm, News Group Newspapers. As I said back in December, our mission continues, he said, adding, "It is the very reason why I started this, and why I will continue to see it through to the end." Targeting UK host Piers Morgan, a former Daily Mirror editor, who was among senior figures who had known about the "widespread" unlawful behaviour at Mirror Group Newspapers, Prince Harry said, We call again for the authorities to uphold the rule of law and to prove that no one is above it. That includes Mr Morgan, who as editor, knew perfectly well what was going on, as the judge held. Piers Morgan hit back on the Duke of Sussex posting on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), I totally agree with Prince Harry that ruthless intrusion into the private lives of the Royal Family for financial gain is utterly reprehensible and I hope he stops doing it. Prince Harry reached an out-of-court settlement with UK tabloid newspaper publisher Mirror Group Newspapers that invaded his privacy with phone hacking and other illegal snooping tools, the Duke of Sussex' lawyer said. Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex walks outside the Rolls Building of the High Court in London, Britain.(Reuters) Mirror Group Newspapers agreed to pay Prince Harrys legal costs and would make an interim payment of 400,000 pounds ($505,000), he said. Prince Harry awarded 140,000 pounds ($177,000) in damages in December after a court ruled that Mirror Group Newspapers used phone hacking in the 1990s while that executives at the papers covered it up. The court then said that Prince Harrys phone was hacked to a modest extent. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. What Prince Harry said on the case Prince Harry said in a statement read by his lawyer that everything we said was happening at Mirror Group was in fact happening, and indeed far worse as the Court ruled in its extremely damning judgement. In light of all this, we call again for the authorities to uphold the rule of law and to prove that no one is above it. That includes Mr Morgan, who as editor, knew perfectly well what was going on, as the judge held. His contempt for the courts ruling and his continued attacks ever since demonstrate why it was so important to obtain a clear and detailed judgment, the statement added. What Mirror Group said on Prince Harry's case Mirror Group Newspapers (MGN) issued a statement in response to its settlement with Prince Harry, saying, "We welcomed Decembers judgment that gave the business the necessary clarity to move forward from events that took place many years ago. Where historical wrongdoing took place, we apologise unreservedly, have taken full responsibility and paid compensation. A spokesman for the publisher further added as per BBC, "We are pleased to have reached this agreement, which gives our business further clarity to move forward from events that took place many years ago and for which we have apologised. Prince Harry's cases against UK media Prince Harrys case against Mirror Group is one of several that he has launched in a campaign against the UK media. The Duke of Sussex has blamed the UK press for snooping on him and hounding his late mother Princess Diana and his wife Meghan Markle. In June last year, Prince Harry became the first senior royal family member to testify in court during the trial against Mirror Group. He still has ongoing cases against the publishers of The Sun and Daily Mail over allegations of unlawful snooping. Britain's Foreign Secretary David Cameron on Friday said Britain has acknowledged "serious concerns" about the Pakistan election. Pakistan Elections: David Cameron, UK foreign secretary, arrives for a meeting of cabinet ministers at 10 Downing Street in London.(Bloomberg) "We recognise ... serious concerns raised about the fairness and lack of inclusivity of the elections. We regret that not all parties were formally permitted to contest the elections and that legal processes were used to prevent some political leaders from participation," Cameron, a former British prime minister, said in a statement. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. The Armenian authorities cannot manage its diplomats, or they themselves give them missions day and night to speak out against Azerbaijan, slander, and have carried out a sort of division of roles, the Western Azerbaijan Community said, Trend reports. The community made the remark commenting on Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan's statements, addressed to Azerbaijan, at the ceremony dedicated to Armenias accession to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, held in the Hague. Furthermore, the ministry noted that against the backdrop of the fact that for 30 years Armenia ignored the decisions of international organizations and even treated them with sarcasm, today the same Armenian diplomats are begging for help from the UN Security Council, the International Court of Justice, the French Senate, the Lithuanian Foreign Ministry, and racist and hired journalists such as Rasmus Canback and Lindsay Snell, which is a clear indicator of their deplorable situation. Stay up to date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel The release of a harshly critical Justice Department special counsel report on President Joe Biden has triggered instant flashbacks to history-shaping events of 2016. That's when FBI Director James Comey castigated Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton over her email practices despite recommending against charges. U.S. President Joe Biden (Reuters)(REUTERS) In this year's already heated election season, the Justice Department cleared Democrat Biden, too, of criminal wrongdoing but painted a politically damaging picture of his handling of classified information. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Both announcements were derided by Democrats for their potential to unduly shape public perception in an election year and for the inclusion of what they saw as gratuitous swipes at their candidates. In particular, Hur's detailed discussion of apparent memory lapses by Biden revived a long-running debate within legal circles about how much derogatory information is appropriate to place in the public realm about individuals like Biden and Clinton who are investigated but not charged. I think what we saw was a special counsel who was trying to be as complete as possible and trying to be as transparent as possible with the public about every aspect of the investigation, Robert Mintz, a former federal prosecutor, said of the Hur report. But ultimately," he added, "some of these observations were more subjective than objective, and I think its fair for individuals to question whether or not some of the phrasing that was put in the report was entirely necessary. To be sure, there are significant differences between the Clinton and Biden investigations, including that the Biden probe concluded a full nine months before this year's election while a final statement from Comey on Clinton came just nine days before voters went to the polls in 2016. As FBI director, Comey broke from the norm by delivering a detailed public statement marking the conclusion of the Clinton email investigation, even though such announcements to the extent they're made at all normally would come from the Justice Department. Hur, by contrast, was fulfilling his duties under Justice Department regulations by drafting a report that was presumably meant for public consumption. Such reports, like special counsel Robert Mueller's 2019 one about President Donald Trump and Russia, often include unflattering narratives about people who were not charged with a crime. Justice Department regulations mandate that special counsels produce their reports, confidentially, to the attorney general. But they don't dictate what can and can't be included, said former Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, who appointed Mueller and was once Hur's boss. The policy is about what you release to the public, Rosenstein said in an email, adding that the authority to release the memo rested solely with Attorney General Merrick Garland. In both the Biden and Clinton cases, the language used to characterize the subjects has been as closely scrutinized and criticized as the decision not to prosecute. Comey, in a July 2016 announcement at FBI headquarters, pointedly referred to Clinton as extremely careless in her handling of classified information on a private email server she used as secretary of state even as he laid out all the reasons she shouldn't be prosecuted. Hur said he would not have charged Biden, even independent of a Justice Department legal opinion that says sitting presidents cannot be indicted. But one particular prong of his analysis for not prosecuting was especially notable the potential that the president would come across to a jury as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory." During an interview with Hur's office, the report said, Biden could not immediately recall the dates of his vice presidency or what year his son Beau died. Those comments prompted fierce pushback from Biden himself, who in a White House news conference grew visibly angry as he denied not knowing when his son had died. Insisting his memory was fine, he said of Hur's reference to Beau Biden: How in the hell dare he raise that? Anticipating the explosive nature of the memory claims, the president's attorneys wrote Hur before the report was released to complain about the inclusion of what they said was "highly prejudicial' commentary. Such comments have no place in a Department of Justice report, particularly one that in the first paragraph announces that no criminal charges are warranted and that the evidence does not establish Mr. Bidens guilt, wrote Richard Sauber, special counsel to the president, and Bob Bauer, Biden's personal lawyer. As with Comey's statement on Clinton, the report was delivered not only in an election year but in a bitterly polarized political climate. The FBI closed its investigation in July 2016 but reopened it less than two weeks before Election Day after potential new evidence was discovered. Comey cleared Clinton anew nine days before the election, but in a final jolt blamed by Democrats for contributing to her loss. Though this year's election is nine months away, discussion of Biden's memory cuts to the core of deep-seated voter concerns about his age approaching the November contest. The prosecutor would absolutely be aware of the context in which he is publicizing these types of gratuitous and unnecessary remarks, said former Justice Department prosecutor Christopher Mattei. And just looking at the reaction that theyve gotten, its quite clear, and totally predictable, that these types of remarks would have political ramifications, even during a primary season. Hur's selection as special counsel in January 2023 was clearly meant to show a nonpartisan approach by Attorney General Merrick Garland. Hur had held senior leadership roles in the Trump Justice Department, both in Washington and as U.S. attorney for Maryland, and as a younger lawyer he clerked for William Rehnquist, the conservative Supreme Court chief justice. Garland, meanwhile, has worked assiduously for the last three years to combat Republican claims of a politicized Justice Department by repeatedly taking steps designed to prove that he is not catering to the interests of Biden or his family. That includes the appointment of a different special counsel to investigate Biden's son, Hunter, who is now facing federal tax and gun charges in two states. Yet once the report was released, Democrats and some former Justice Department officials appeared taken aback by the report's findings. Some openly criticized the Hur appointment itself, seizing on his service in the Trump administration to try to undermine his findings. Spokespeople for Hur and Garland did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment. To be sure, like Comey, Hur's job was never going to be easy especially not when a different special counsel, Jack Smith, already charged Trump with hoarding classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate. It fell to Hur to illuminate the differences in the fact patterns and legal analyses that led to one 2024 candidate facing charges and the other not. I think part of the drama thats associated with this right in the moment is the circumstances that we find ourselves in: Biden had classified documents, Trump had classified documents, Trump got charged. There was no way the special prosecutor here was going to satisfy everybody," said Eric Gibson, a former Justice Department public corruption prosecutor. Four young children have been reported missing in Green Bay, Wisconsin, prompting a Child Abduction Emergency (AMBER Alert). The kids have been identified as Indian-American with brown eyes and black hair. Four young children have been reported missing in Green Bay, prompting a Child Abduction Emergency.(X@WIMissingPerson) The missing children are listed as 4-year-old Tru Ward, 1-year-old Journee Hargrove, 6-year-old Jada Hargrove, and 7-year-old Genesse Hargrove. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Police have identified two suspects as Deanna M. Ward (34) and Diana L. Halfaday (57). Both suspects, who are five feet and one inch tall, are Indian-American or Alaskan-native with brown eyes and hair. They were last seen in the vicinity of Green Bay's 800 block of South Van Buren Street. According to the police, they were located near St. Vincent Hospital. Two of the kids, according to officials, have medical issues that need daily medication. It is unknown to the authorities if the suspects and missing kids are in a vehicle or not. Indian students found dead in US under mysterious circumstances The horrific attack in the United States on an Indian student named Syed Mazahir Ali has grabbed the attention of people in India. Ali was attacked by four armed thieves close to his Chicago home, resulting in critical injuries. Following the incident, a video of him bleeding went viral on social media. Four people attacked me. I was returning home with a food packet in my hand. I slipped near my house and the four people kicked and punched me. Please help me, bro. Please help me, Ali can be heard saying in the video. The event has highlighted the precarious security conditions that Indian students in the US are subject to. There have been multiple reports of violent attacks against Indian students throughout the US in recent times. Several Indian origin students, including Vivek Saini, Shreyas Reddy Beniger, Neel Acharya and Akul Dhawan, were found dead under mysterious circumstances there. The Chinese New Year is a wonderful time of the year when the Chinese community around the world celebrates. The festival also has numerous myths attached to it that explain why age-old traditions are practised to this day. Here are some enigmatic Chinese New Year myths: Chinese New Year 2024(Pexels) The Monster from Sea There dwelled a monster named Nian () at the bottom of the ocean that surfaced once every year to feast on animals and humans. To escape its wrath, the villagers would run to the mountains. However, one year, a beggar came to seek shelter when everyone was running. An old woman took him in and he promised to chase the monster away. At midnight, the monster arrived but was stopped by red paper on the doors and the beggar dressed in red. It also got scared of firecrackers. Since then, the Chinese use red paper followed by firecrackers to chase the proverbial monster away. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Upside down Fu ()or Fortune Another common motif in every household is the word fu (), meaning happiness or fortune, but in most houses, it will be upside down. The legend goes that an Emperor of the Ming dynasty had ordered every household to celebrate by pasting the word fu (), on their doors. Unfortunately, an illiterate family had pasted the word upside down. The Emperor called for their heads, but the Empress intervened pointing out: Upside down ( / dao) is a homophone of here ( / dao). When its upside down, it means that fu is here. The Emperor listened and from then on, the word would be hung upside down in memory of the kind Empress. Lend me a Ear Many have wondered why dumplings look like ears and theres a reason: the myth of the Goddess Nuwa (). The Chinese goddess Nuwa, who has the body of a snake is considered the mother of all life. She is believed to have created all life and created humans out of yellow clay. However, she realised their ears would freeze and fall in the winter. To overcome the problem, she sewed the ears in place and put the thread in the mouths. Later people, moulded dough into the shape of ears, stuffing it with meat and vegetable instead of thread. And the delicious snack was born, one thats cherished across the world. Scaring away Sui Another legend regarding the colour envelope revolves around an evil named spirit named Sui (). The spirit would arrive and pat the heads of children, causing them to develop fevers. Thereby, parents would keep their children awake all night. One child was given eight coins to play with to stay awake. The legend goes than when Sui appeared, the coins emanated a powerful light frightening the monster away. The eight coins were supposed to be the Eight Immortals in disguise. Since then people have given the money which is called yasui qian (suppressing Sui money). There are various rules about the money that can be put in hongbao. Only clean and crisp notes ought to be put in it. While its usually kept for children, its become the practice to give red envelopes to near and dear ones. Spring Festive Wine Another drink specific to Chinese New Year is the Tusu wine. The story goes that during a plague, a man put some herbs, leaves, and grains into bags brought one bag to each neighbour. They drank the water on New Years Day and they found that the drink saved them from the plague. It became known as the Tusu wine, named after Tusu-structured home of the man. During the severe workforce crisis in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a CVS pharmacist lost her life as she waited for someone to cover her shift. Ashleigh Anderson, 41, died after suffering from a heart attack during her stressful work hours at the pharmacy. Before her tragic death, Anderson texted her longtime boyfriend, I think I am having a heart attack. Ashleigh Anderson suffered a fatal heart attack in 2021 during her shift at CVS pharmacy Report detailing Ashleigh Anderson's death A CVS store in Canton, Ohio, was recently slapped with a $250,000 fine for excessive understaffing. As the stressful work conditions of the American pharmacy made headlines, a report detailing Anderson's death was published by USA Today. The report highlights the crushing pressure Anderson and CVS employees deal with, especially during the pandemic. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. According to the report, Anderson could recognise the symptoms of a heart attack but was unable to leave the store as there was no one to cover her. While struggling with the symptoms, she texted her boyfriend, Joe Bowman, It's the jaw pain that worries me. Didn't realise that was a symptom. Bowman suggested she take a long lunch and decompress. However, there was no one to cover for Anderson, who was described as a rising star by her co-workers. If she had left during the shift, then she would have had to close the store, which could further push back the pending prescriptions list. Little did she know that her decision to wait for a co-worker would lead to her death. Her last text message before her death was to Bowman, Bob is coming now. I will go to Schneck here. Hopefully its nothing and I will come back to work. 15 minutes later, she collapsed on the floor. Despite CPR attempts by a customer, who happened to be a nurse, jolts from a defibrillator and three rounds of epinephrine from first responders, Anderson didn't wake up. According to the outlet, healthcare experts say that she could have most likely survived had she rushed to the ER upon facing the first signs of a heart attack. CVS' tone deaf response slammed by netizens Following the report by USA Today, CVS Chief Pharmacy Officer Prem Shah shared a statement saying that the company was deeply saddened about Anderson's death. In the statement, Shah noted that CVS would make sustained investments to provide a more balanced, positive work environment. He further added that new technologies would be introduced across pharmacies to help balance workload, maintain staffing hours even during slower periods, increase wages and bonuses and create a more sustainable reimbursement model. Shah's statement has been heavily criticised by social media users as insensitive. A pharmacist on X, formerly Twitter user shared a picture of Shah's statement along with the message, The absolutely tone deaf message that went out this morning to all CVS teams in response to the USA Today piece about Ashleigh Anderson. Several users joined the conversation, with one saying, Here's a $400 bonus to forget about it! Another user wrote, "I read that last paragraph as we will replace most of you with automation In American politics, especially among the denizens that follow Tucker Carlson or worship at the altar of Donald Trump, claiming that God is on your side is a given. Even Vivek Ramaswamy, to appeal to evangelists, presented Hinduism as a facsimile of Christianity with its 10 truths. In this pool photograph distributed by Russian state agency Sputnik, Russia's President Vladimir Putin gives an interview to US talk show host Tucker Carlson at the Kremlin in Moscow on February 6, 2024. (AFP) And in classic American fashion of extrapolating their beliefs and morality to the world, Tucker Carlson couldnt resist asking Vladimir Putin if the current world events were gods work. In fact, the 2-hour-plus history lesson took an interesting theological bend when the former Fox News host posed the question. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Check out the interaction below: Tucker Carlson: How can a leader, who has to kill, be a Christian? How do you reconcile with that? Vladimir Putin: It is very easy when it comes to protecting oneself, one's family and one's homeland. We won't attack anyone. As for religion in general you know it's not about external manifestations. It's not about going to Church every day or banging your head on the floor. It is in the heart and our cultural is so human oriented. Dostoevsky who was very well known in the West and the genius of Russian culture, spoke a lot about the Russian soul. After all, Western society is more pragmatic. The Russian people think about the more eternal, the moral values. I don't know. Maybe you won't agree but Western culture is more pragmatic. Tucker Carlson:So, do you see the supernatural at work, look out across what's happening in the world, do you see god at work? Do you think to yourself, these are not human? Vladimir Putin:No to be honest. I don't think so. My belief is that the development of the world community is in accordance with inherent law and those laws are what they are. Based on his answers, it would be unlikely that Putin is going to campaign in the rust-belt states anytime soon but his relationship with the Church and Christianity is complicated. Does Putin believe in God? Putin has always been a man who is serious about personal faith and even wearing a small aluminium cross that he showed off to George W Bush. The Church was ostensibly given to Putin by his Chrisian mother when he was secretly baptised in the early 1950s. Putin obviously didnt flaunt it during his KGB days but claims: In 1993 when I worked on the Leningrad City Council, I went to Israel as part of an official delegation. Mama gave me my baptismal cross to get it blessed at the Lords Tomb. I did as she said and then put the cross around my neck. I have never taken it off since. Unlike the Communists, Putins has cultivated a relationship with the Orthodox Church and one of his closest confidant isArchimandrite Tikhon, the Father Superior of Sretensky monastery. Some have even claimed that Tikhon knows more about Putin than anyone else. Putin and Tikhon worked closely to re-unify the Russian Orthodox Church and the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia. Tikhon has also claimed that Putin prays daily in a small chapel. Putin has also encouraged the Church over other religious bodies, with numerous churches rebuilt including the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour in Moscow. Despite her dismal performance in Republican primaries against former President Donald Trump, former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley has asserted that the United States would have a female president in 2024, adding that it would be either her or incumbent vice-president Kamala Harris. Nikki Haley (AP) It is to mention that both Harris and Haley, the only GOP candidate left in the race for the party's nomination against Trump, are of Indian-origin. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. This is about the fact that we are going to have a female president of the United States, and either it will be me or it will be Kamala Harris, Haley told Fox News. Trump cannot win a general election. Thats a fact. We lost in 2018. We lost in 2020. We lost in 2022... hes got a year's worth of court cases yet... Everything he touches is chaos, and we continue to lose," she added. Also Read: Nikki Haley applies for Secret Service protection due to increasing threats on campaign trail Haley says her continued quest for GOP nomination strengthening party In another interview, Haley claimed that the Republican Party is getting stronger as a result of her persistent pursuit of the presidential candidacy. Im strengthening the party because I bring more people into the Republican Party, instead of pushing people away like Trump, Haley, 52, told The Wall Street Journal this week. The former governor went on to say that she isn't concerned about upsetting Trump's fans as she continues to target Trump's eligibility, citing his age and mental fitness, for a second term. Also Read: Nikki Haley mocks Donald Trump and Joe Biden in hilarious Grumpy Old Men ad According to the 77-year-old Trump, Haley's "misguided campaign" is causing damage to the Republican party. Several GOP leaders have appealed to her to withdraw from the race and endorse Trump. Its bad for the party. I think its actually bad for her, too, Trump told reporters Thursday in Florida. While Trump prevailed in Nevada's Republican presidential caucuses on Thursday, Haley didn't participate in the caucuses, claiming it was an "unfair process favoring Trump". Haley declared that she will continue to run for president, despite the fact that polls indicate that Trump is leading in her home state of South Carolina, where the next Republican primary is scheduled for February 24. Trump also has a strong backing in Michigan, which is all set to hold its primary on February 27. Amid concerns over the recent surge in the attack on Indian students in the United States, Eric Garcetti, the US Ambassador to India, on Friday said the Biden-led administration is "very committed" to assure Indians that the US is a "wonderful and safe" place to pursue higher studies. US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti(ANI) Expressing regrets over the attacks on Indian students, he said that our heart always is touched" by such tragedies. He, however, mentioned that the US has the highest number of Indian students than any nation in the world. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Our heart is always touched when any tragedy, whether it is a life taken by somebody or any violence - no matter who they are. We are very committed to making sure that Indians know that the United States is a wonderful place to study and to be safe. We have more Indians studying in the US than any country in the world, Garcetti said while speaking to ANI. "We know tragedies will happen, it's our responsibility to make sure that we work together with the Indian government and that people know what they can do. Our hearts go out to the families in any of these tragedies," he added. Also Read: Exclusive: Indian students in US universities living in fear after 2 deaths in a week, Scared to travel alone Indian students found dead in US under mysterious circumstances Recently, a horrific attack in the United States on an Indian student from Hyderabad named Syed Mazahir Ali, who is is pursuing a master's degree at Indiana Wesleyan University, grabbed the attention of people in India. Ali was attacked by four armed thieves close to his Chicago home, resulting in critical injuries. Following the incident, a video of him bleeding went viral on social media. Also Read: Wife of Hyderabad student attacked in Chicago reacts, writes to S Jaishankar Four people attacked me. I was returning home with a food packet in my hand. I slipped near my house and the four people kicked and punched me. Please help me, bro. Please help me, Ali can be heard saying in the video. After the incident, Mazahir Ali's wife Ruqiya Fatima wrote to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar seeking medical and legal help. This is to state that my husband Syed Mazahir Ali who was pursuing a Masters in Information and Technology from Indiana Wesley University, I got a call around 6 pm on February 4 from one of my husbands friends that he had been attacked very badly and robbed at Campbell Ave, Chicago while he was near his apartment and has been taken to some hospital, she wrote in a letter on Tuesday. The event has highlighted the precarious security conditions that Indian students in the US are subject to. There have been multiple reports of violent attacks against Indian students throughout the US in recent times. Several Indian origin students, including Vivek Saini, Shreyas Reddy Beniger, Neel Acharya and Akul Dhawan, were found dead under mysterious circumstances there. The US Department of State on Thursday announced that it would pay upto $10 million for information that leads to the identification or whereabouts of any individuals who hold a leadership in the Hive ransomware gang. The Hive ransomware gang creates malicious software that can enter corporate networks through a variety of techniques, such as phishing emails.(Unsplash) In addition, a reward of upto $5 million is being offered by the agency for information that results in the arrest or conviction of anyone in the United State who is involved in a conspiracy to distribute the Hive ransomware. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. "Beginning in late July 2022, the FBI (the Federal Bureau of Investigation) penetrated Hive's computer networks, obtained its decryption keys and offered them to victims worldwide, preventing victims from having to pay upto $130 million in ransoms demanded," the State Department said in a statement. "After infiltrating Hives networks, the FBI provided over 300 decryption keys to Hive victims who were under attack. In addition, the FBI distributed over 1,000 additional decryption keys to previous Hive victims," it added. Over 1,500 institutions in more than 80 countries, including the United States, have been the target of Hive and its associates since 2021, resulting in the theft of more than $100 million. School districts, banking institutions, and vital infrastructure are among the victims. Over 2,200 hospitals, schools, and government facilities were attacked in the US alone in 2023, along with thousands of private businesses. Also Read: FBI Director Christopher Wray warns Chinese hackers ready to wreak havoc on US infrastructure How does Hive ransomware gang operate? Malicious software, sometimes known as ransomware, is a kind of software that blocks users from accessing networks, computers, or data until a ransom is paid to unlock them. The Hive ransomware gang creates malicious software that can enter corporate networks through a variety of techniques, such as phishing emails. The gang demands large payments in exchange for decryption keys that open the organization's system, holding its users captive. Also Read: Government agencies in the US also targeted in MOVEit global hacking attack According to the Justice Department, in one instance, Hive's attack on a hospital in the Midwest hampered medical facilities during the COVID-19 outbreak and required the hospital to pay a ransom before it could start treating patients. The significant reward for providing information was made public a few weeks after US Attorney General Merrick Garland declared that the FBI had blown up the global network and taken control of its servers in California after more than a year of monitoring the hackers' system. There have been numerous talking points from Tucker Carlsons long conversation with Vladimir Putin but one interesting one was where Vladimir Putin, a dyed-in-the-wool KGB man, mocked Tucker Carlson for his desire and inability to join the CIA. Tucker Carlson and Vladimir Putin as a KGB agent in 1980 (Source: Wiki)(Wiki) This seemed to flabbergast the former Fox News host who perhaps didnt expect Putin to have that information. Putin said: with the backing of CIA of course. The organisation that you wanted to join back in the day. We should thank god that they didnt let you in. From what I understand, its a serious organization. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. For the uninitiated, Russias secret service the KGB and Americas CIA have always been at loggerheads in what became an extension of the Great Game. Putin it would appear has not forgotten that particular part of his life, as evidenced by him mocking Carlsons inability to join the CIA. Putin served 15 years as a foreign intelligence officer for the KGB, including six years in Dresden, East Germany. He retired in 1990 with the rank of lieutenant colonel. Putin also spoke about the sabotage of the Nord Stream undersea gas pipelines between Germany, Finland and Russia, Putin claimed that the CIA or NATO was behind the sabotage. While Russia was initially blamed for the attack, US officials later contended it was done by a pro-Ukrainian group. When asked by Carlson who blew up the Nord Stream, Putin replied: You for sure. When the former Fox News host joked he was busy that day, Putin said: The CIA has no such alibi. However, Putin refused to give any details for his claims and said one ought to look for someone who is interested and who has the capability. Russian President Vladimir Putin used an interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson to urge Washington to recognize Moscow's interests and persuade Ukraine to sit down for talks. Putin also said that Russia stands ready to negotiate a potential prisoner exchange that would free Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who was detained last March on espionage charges he denies, and hinted that Moscow wants the release of its agent imprisoned in Germany. Most of the interview, released Thursday, focused on Ukraine, where the war is nearing the two-year mark. Putin repeated his claim that his invasion of Ukraine, which Kyiv and its allies described as an unprovoked act of aggression, was necessary to protect Russian speakers in Ukraine and prevent the country from posing a threat to Russia by joining NATO. Putin pointed at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's refusal to conduct talks with the Kremlin. He argued that it's up to Washington to stop supplying Ukraine with weapons and convince Kyiv, which he called a U.S. satellite, to sit down for negotiations. With inputs from agencies Hitting out at US President Joe Biden after the release of Special Counsel Robert Hur's report, Donald Trump on Thursday declared that the federal case involving classified documents against the Republican frontrunner should be withdrawn. Former US president Donald Trump (left) and US President Joe Biden (AFP) In a 345-page report, Hur said that while Biden had wilfully retained and disclosed classified materials after his vice presidency, he would not be criminally charged, as at trial, Biden would likely present himself to a jury, as he did during our interview of him, as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Taking to his social media platform Truth Social, Trump called on the Department of Justice to "unify" the nation by ending the probe, in which the former US President entered a not guilty plea to 40 charges over allegations that he unlawfully kept classified papers after leaving the office. "If Special Counsel Jack Smith wants to do good for our Country, and help to unify it, he should drop all Litigation against Joe Biden's Political Opponent, ME, and let our Country HEAL," Trump, who is set to go to trial in May 2024 to face the 40 federal charges against him, wrote. "This would be a far bigger and better achievement than anything he has ever done, and will be easy for the Great Patriots of our Country to understand in light of Special Counsel Robert Hur's Document Report on Joe Biden, where the evidence is overwhelming that he 'willfully retained' important documents!" he added. Also Read: Get ready for Michelle Obama: Ramaswamy reacts to Robert Hur's alarming report on Joe Biden The ex-US President further claimed that Biden documents case is 100 times different and more severe than his. THIS HAS NOW PROVEN TO BE A TWO-TIERED SYSTEM OF JUSTICE AND UNCONSTITUTIONAL SELECTIVE PROSECUTION! The Biden Documents Case is 100 times different and more severe than mine. I did nothing wrong, and I cooperated far more. What Biden did is outrageously criminalHe had 50 years of documents, 50 times more than I had, and 'WILLFULLY RETAINED' them, Trump wrote in another post. Deranged Jack Smith should drop this Case immediately. ELECTION INTERFERENCE, he stressed. GOP leaders declare Biden unfit for the Oval Office Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-La.) and other prominent members of the Republican Party claimed that Biden is "unfit" for the position following the release of Hur'sreport that outlined the president's memory issues. In a joint statement, the GOP leaders claimed that Hur's decision to not charge Biden for his handling of classified materials exposes a two-tiered system of justice with politically motivated charges while carrying water for another amid similar allegations . Among the most disturbing parts of this report is the Special Counsels justification for not recommending charges: namely that the Presidents memory had such significant limitations that he could not convince a jury that the President held a mental state of willfulness that a serious felony requires, the GOP leaders said. A man too incapable of being held accountable for mishandling classified information is certainly unfit for the Oval Office, they added. Meanwhile, Claudia Tenney, R-N.Y., sent a letter to Attorney General Garland and shared her "grave concerns" following Hur's report, according to Fox News. "After concluding that President Biden knowingly and willfully removed, mishandled, and disclosed classified documents repeatedly over a period of decades, Mr. Hur nevertheless recommended that charges not be brought against him," Tenney wrote while calling special counsel's reasoning alarming. Also Read: Joe Biden mixes up presidents of Egypt and Mexico during emotional outburst over a report that targets his memory "We don't prosecute or decline to prosecute people based on their personalities, or on the public's anticipated perception of them," she wrote. "If Special Counsel finds that the evidence forms a reasonable basis to bring charges, he must do so." Tenney stated that the DoJ "cannot ethically bring charges against former President Trump because he has mental acuity and a forceful personality, and decline to bring charges against President Biden because of his cognitive decline." She added that Biden needs to be charged, unless he is not mentally competent to stand trial. Calling it a "glaring" double standard, former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley used the report to criticise both Biden and her Republican rival Trump. "Both Joe Biden and Donald Trump were reckless with classified documents," she tweeted. If Bidens defense is old age and forgetfulness, Trump can easily make the same claim. Trump should quickly hire Bidens lawyers. In a subsequent tweet, she called on Biden to take a mental competency test, and immediately share it with the public. Biden claps back at special counsel's report that questioned his memory, docs handling In his report, Special Counsel Hur painted a picture of a man who was unable to recall either the year his loving son Beau passed away or the period he served as vice president under Barack Obama's administration, rejecting Biden's claim that he is still capable and qualified to serve another term. Mr. Biden's memory was worse in his interview with our office, the report states. He did not remember when he was vice president, forgetting on the first day of the interview when his term ended ('if it was 2013 when did I stop being Vice President?'), and forgetting on the second day of the interview when his term began ('in 2009, am I still Vice President?), the report stated. However, in a speech to the nation on Thursday night, Biden maintained that his memory was "fine" and defended his bid for re-election, claiming to be the "most qualified person in this country to be president." "I'm well-meaning, and I'm an elderly man and I know what the hell I'm doing," stated Biden. "I've been president. I put this country back on its feet. I don't need his recommendation. My memory is fine." BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Ilham Aliyev is winning the presidential election in Azerbaijan with 92.12 percent after the processing of 100 percent of the ballots, Trend reports. According to the latest results published by the Central Election Commission, Zahid Oruj received 2.17% of the votes, Razi Nurullayev - 0.8%, Fazil Mustafa - 1.98%, Elshad Musaev - 0.66%, Gudrat Hasanguliyev - 1.72%, Fuad Aliyev - 0.53% of the votes. Voting for the presidential election in Azerbaijan has finished. With a total of 6,478,623 people on the voter list, voting took place at 6,537 polling sites across the country. Over 90,000 observers have enrolled to oversee the election. The election took place across the entire territory of Azerbaijan, including territories recently liberated from Armenian occupation. The US-based Oracle Advisory Group and the Citizens' Labor Rights Protection League have jointly released the results of an exit poll conducted during the presidential election in Azerbaijan. According to the organization, 93.9 percent of voters cast their ballots for Ilham Aliyev. The Social Research Center says that 92.4 percent of voters voted for Ilham Aliyev. Based on the results of the exit poll of the Ray Monitoring Center, 92.6 percent of voters voted for Ilham Aliyev. Poland's defence minister said Friday that Russian leader Vladimir Putin had "zero credibility" despite denying any intent to invade Poland amid Moscow's two-year assault on neighbouring Ukraine. Russia's President Vladimir Putin is seen during a meeting.(AFP) Tensions have long been strained between Poland and Russia but deteriorated further after Warsaw threw its weight behind Kyiv in its efforts to fight off Russia's invasion. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. In an interview released Thursday with US journalist Tucker Carlson, Putin said it was "out of the question" for Russia to invade Poland or Latvia. "We have no interest in Poland, Latvia or anywhere else. Why would we do that? We simply don't have any interest. It's just threat mongering," Putin said. Asked about Putin's comments, Polish Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz said there was "zero credibility" to Putin's claim. "Nothing can make us let down our guard... and such words certainly do not cause this, on the contrary," Kosiniak-Kamysz told reporters on Friday. Poland, a NATO and EU member, shares an extensive border with Russia's ally Belarus and with Kaliningrad, the heavily armed Russian exclave. "The more someone repeats that something is not planned, the more suspicious you must be, especially with such words," said Kosiniak-Kamysz, who is also Poland's deputy prime minister. In a two-hour interview with Carlson, a former host of the right-wing Fox News network, Putin also said that Nazi Germany's invasion of Poland in 1939, which marked the start of World War II, was due to Warsaw being "intractable". The claim drew a sharp rebuke from Poland's Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski, who branded Putin a "Russian dictator". "We are used to paranoid justifications for Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022," Sikorski said on social media. "What's shocking is that this time they are enabled by an American journalist," Sikorski said. Ukraine's newly-appointed military chief Oleksandr Syrsky said that his military would need to evolve in order to fight Russian forces to win the war. Russia-Ukraine War: Oleksandr Syrskyi, commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.(Bloomberg) "Only changes and continuous improvement of the means and methods of warfare will allow us to succeed on this path," Oleksandr Syrsky said in his first public comments since taking the post. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. The lives and well-being of our servicemen have always been and remain the main asset of the Ukrainian army, he added. This comes after senior Russian security official Dmitry Medvedev said Ukraine's new Russian-born army chief was a traitor. The Kremlin asserted that the appointment would not alter the outcome of Russia s special military operation in Ukraine. Dmitry Medvedev accused Oleksandr Syrsky of breaking his oath as an officer saying, Looking at the biography of the new commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian armed forces Syrskyi one feels a sense of hatred, contempt and disgust. Disgust for a man who was a Soviet Russian officer, but became a Bandera traitor, who broke his oath and serves the Nazis, destroying his loved ones. May the earth burn under his feet! Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: We dont think these are factors that can change the course of the special military operation operation," using Moscow's preferred term for its campaign in Ukraine." On Tuesday, at least seven people were killed, and 31 others were injured after a landslide buried two buses carrying passengers in the southern Philippines. The incident occurred near a gold mining site in the mountain area of Masara, in Maco in Davao de Oro province, where the buses were picking up employees of the mining operator Apex Mining. At Least 7 People Dead, 31 Injured in Landslide The officials reported that the workers were being collected in four 60-seater buses along with a jeep, which had a capacity for 36 passengers. According to Davao de Oro provincial spokesperson Edward Macapili, 27 miners waiting to be driven home in two buses were among the missing. Numerous miners managed to escape by jumping out of windows. At least 31 residents who were injured in Tuesday's night landslide were rescued by army forces, police, and volunteers. The search was put on hold overnight due to concerns of more landslides, but officials confirmed it resumed on Wednesday. The disaster response officials said more than 750 families had been relocated to evacuation facilities. Macapili reported that the region has seen less intense rains in recent weeks, and the weather has been clear in previous days. "It happened so fast," he said by phone. "They suddenly saw the landslide cascading directly toward them." Earthquakes have destroyed buildings in the southeast in recent months. The disaster response officials said that landslides and flooding have killed over a dozen locals in recent weeks. Read Also: Taylor Swift Resumes' Eras Tour' in Tokyo Philippines Floods, Landslides Kills 42 Philippine search and rescue teams recovered bodies from mud and water on Friday, raising the number of people killed in storm-related flooding and landslides to 42, with dozens more feared buried. According to Naguib Sinarimbo, interior minister of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Mindanao (BARMM), at least eleven bodies were discovered in the southern province of Maguindanao, which was severely damaged by the approaching tropical storm Nalgae. Sinarimbo said rescue and retrieval operations are temporarily suspended overnight and will resume on Saturday morning. The operation teams feared that more people were still trapped under mud and flood waters. "Based on the assessment on the ground, at that specific site, there were many (who got buried). The number might hit 80, but we are hoping it won't reach that number," Sinarimbo said via phone. The disaster officials reported that thousands of people have been evacuated from Nalgae's path. Nalgae is expected to land in Samar province in central Philippines on Friday night. Furthermore, Sinarimbo said the rainfall in Maguindanao province had exceeded expectations. He added that preparations were made but said the rainfall was more than people had expected. Images posted by the coast guard showed rescuers using rubber boats to reach people trapped in chest-deep waves in Sultan Kudarat, another province in the south. Related Article: Philippines' Mayon Volcano Erupts, Prompting Thousands of Villagers To Evacuate In a report published by Reuters Maersk warned on Thursday that shipping overcapacity would hit profits more than expected this year and that it did not see a major boost from the jump in freight rates due to Red Sea, most likely due to the Houthi Rebel forces. They have also suspended their share buyback program following this warning. However, container shippers have been among the best-performing stocks in Europe this year despite the re-routing of vessels in the Red Sea. But Maersk's shares were down 17% percent levels that were seen before the Red Sea interruptions began in December last year. Their rival company, Hapag-Lloyd, was around 11% lower according to the report. Maersk, like many other shippers, has been diverting their ships on a longer journey around Africa leading to analysts believing that these extended journeys and higher freight weights would outweigh a boost in new container ships making their way into the market. Words From The CEO But Maersk's CEO, Vincent Clerc, spoke to reporters and told them that about twice as many new ships were entering the market when compared to the extra capacity needed to send vessels along the new route. The Covid-19 pandemic boost to shipping profits has led to a wave of new vessel orders. The vessels delivered at the end of last year covered the gaps that have been created by the longer journeys around Africa however the overcapacity would only come about during 2024 and only be felt in 2025 and possibly in 2026 Clerc told reporters. Clerc provided the following statement "We will see that there are too many ships in the world compared to the number of containers that need to be transported. Even if a year from now we're still sailing south of Africa, excess capacity and pressure on prices will persist." The company has been seen as a benchmark of world trade and has stated that its expected underlying earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortization to be between $ 1 billion and $ 6 billion which could be concerning considering the company had reached $9.6 billion last year. The company has stated that one-third of its container volumes had been impacted by the conflict in the Red Sea and while the company had attempted to make its way through the oceanic territory, the United States Navy stated it could not currently guarantee safe passage through the territory. Clerc had stated "It's not going to be the case that just because nothing has happened there for a week, we can try again. We need to be sure that the day we return to the Red Sea, it's because we believe we can do it permanently." Clerc also said that the Red Sea conflict didn't match the scale of disruption caused by the pandemic when freight rates and shipper profits were hit by lockdowns, bottlenecks, and changes in consumer behavior. He ended on a positive note with the following "In this case, it's only a longer transit time. The moment we start sailing via the Suez Canal again, prices will fall immediately." Finnish voters choose between centre-right National Coalition Party candidate Alexander Stubb and liberal Green Party member Pekka Haavisto in a presidential runoff on Sunday. In the latest polls, former prime minister Alexander Stubb leads centre-left liberal Pekka Haavisto by 6-8 percentage points after barely winning the first round on Jan. 28.First-round support for Stubb was 27.2% and Haavisto 25.8%. No one got more than 50%, hence a runoff is needed. Finland's Presidential Election Regardless of the outcome of Sunday's presidential election in Finland, the newly elected foreign and security policy chief will be an ardent pro-European cosmopolitan who firmly endorses Ukraine. According to Reuters, he will succeed retiring Sauli Niinisto, ushering the nation into a new era within NATO following its decades-long non-alignment and decision to join the Western defense alliance in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The president of Finland coordinates closely with the government, serves as the nation's representative at NATO meetings, and assumes the role of Chief Commander of the Finnish Defense Forces. On January 28, former prime minister Alexander Stubb of the National Coalition Party won the first round of voting by a narrow margin. In the surveys, Stubb is 6-8 percentage points ahead of former foreign minister and center-left liberal Pekka Haavisto. "Both candidates have a strong international profile and are characteristically urban," said Markku Jokisipila, the director of Finland's Centre for Parliamentary Studies. Jokisipila stated that the center-right Current polling indicates that approximately one-third of the electorate supports progressive and green political parties, while the remaining electorate is oriented toward conservatism. As a result, Stubb is the clear frontrunner. Haavisto, who is seeking a third term as president, would become Finland's first openly homosexual leader should he secure an unexpected victory. Voters continue to consider his sexual orientation, as evidenced by recent surveys which indicate that one-third of respondents cited his partnership with a man as a reason not to support him. Stubb, in an effort to appeal to a wider audience, has abandoned his earlier EU federalism during the campaign. However, he has remained "internationally oriented" and supports extensive NATO cooperation, according to political scientist Johanna Vuorelma of the University of Helsinki. Although Haavisto, a member of the Green Party, stated his intention to adhere to the existing legislation in Finland that unequivocally forbids the presence of nuclear weapons on Finnish soil, Stubb proposed permitting their transportation to Finland, but not their storage. Stubb, in contrast to Haavisto, who has stated that he does not see the need, is also in favor of stationing permanent NATO forces in the country, he noted. Read Also: Serbia Seeks Urgent UN Meeting Over Kosovo Currency Ban Finland-Russia Border Closure The issue surrounding the boundaries of Finland's NATO involvement has garnered considerable attention since December, when the nation signed a defence cooperation agreement with the United States, granting unrestricted access to 15 facilities and areas in Finland for the American military, including the storage of military equipment and ammunition. Russia, with which Finland shares a 1,340-kilometer (830-mile) border, opposed the defense pact. Moscow characterized it as "obviously a threat to us" and vowed to "retaliate against the accumulation of NATO military capabilities along our border." Per AP News, Vuorelma stated that supporters of nationalist Finns Party candidate Jussi Halla-aho, who was vanquished in the first round with 19% of the vote, might feel estranged by the international orientation of the two remaining candidates. Related Article: Finland Election: Former PM Alexander Stubb Wins 1st Round of Presidential Race, Candidates Continue to 2nd Round The United States Senate advanced a $95 billion Ukraine and Israel aid bill with a filibuster-proof majority after failed negotiations on the border deal. The development on Thursday came after Republicans blocked compromise legislation that included a long-sought overhaul of immigration policy. Senators expressed support for a procedural motion by 67-32. Senate Advances $95 Billion Aid Bill This xceeded the 60-vote threshold to advance the bill where 17 Republicans voted in favor, which was a surprising shift from their opposition to the broader bill on Wednesday. In a statement in the Senate after the vote, Majority Leader Sen. Chuck Schumer said that the advancement of the bill is a good first step. He added that the bill is crucial for the country's national security, for the security of Ukraine, and Israel, for humanitarian aid for innocent civilians in Gaza, and for Taiwan. There was no immediate information on when the 100-member chamber would consider final passage of the bill. This comes as some senators said that they expected to remain in session during the weekend if necessary to pass the bill. Schumer added that they will keep on working on the bill until the "job is done," as per Reuters. The Democrat-led Senate took up the security aid bill after GOP lawmakers on Wednesday blocked a broader measure that also included reforms of border security and immigration policy. It was one that a bipartisan group of senators had negotiated for several months. The latest security aid bill includes $61 billion for Ukraine as it continues its fight against Russia's invasion, $14 billion for Israel amid its war with the Hamas terrorist group, and $4.83 billion to support partners in the Indo-Pacific region, including Taiwan, and deter aggression by China. Read Also: Border Patrol Portion Causes Ukraine, Israel Aid Package To Implode Overcoming Republican Opposition The bill would also provide $9.15 billion in humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza and the West Bank, Ukraine, and other populations in conflict zones worldwide. The Senate is also expected to take several days to agree on a final version of the security aid package. This is as some Republicans continue to push for amendments to its provisions. Schumer said that failure to pass the aid bill would only embolden autocrats, such as Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Senate negotiators spent nearly four months discusing a $118 billion deal, according to the New York Post. However, former United States President Donald Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson quickly opposed after the text was released on Sunday. GOP leaders in the lower chamber warned that taking the measure would be a "waste of time." The development comes as Ukraine aid was the centerpiece of a particularly dramatic saga in September last year. Houser Republican hardliners tanked a budget deal in opposition to $6 billion of assistance to the embattled region. Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy at the time agreed to remove funding for Ukraine and pass a short-term bill to keep the government running. A few days later, McCarthy was ousted from his post as speaker by his fellow Republican lawmakers, said CNBC. Related Article: Anthony Blinken Returns To Washington Following Rough Negotiations With Israel And Hamas The Middle East witnessed a surge in tensions following the US assassination of Wissam Mohammed 'Abu Bakr' al-Saadi, an Iran-backed militia commander, in Iraq. The targeted strike, conducted by an American drone, resulted in the destruction of the vehicle carrying al-Saadi and two other members of Kataib Hezbollah in Baghdad. Iraqi Spokesman Condemns US Assassination Strike The aftermath was recorded in violent photos, showing the burning car wreckage in the middle of a residential area. Yehia Rasool, a spokesman for the Iraqi military, denounced the strike as "a blatant assassination" that ignored the lives of others and broke international law. He underlined that such acts threaten Iraqi sovereignty and civic peace, calling for the end of the coalition operation in Iraq, which he said had turned into a destabilizing element. The strike, undertaken without prior consultation, has intensified ongoing discussions between the US and Iraqi officials regarding the presence of American forces in the country. Qasim al-Araji, Iraq's national security adviser, denounced the attack as "cowardly and reprehensible," reiterating the Iraqi government's determination to end the international coalition's mission. The targeted commander, al-Saadi, was allegedly responsible for orchestrating the January 27 attack on a US base near the Jordan-Syrian border, resulting in casualties among American soldiers. His death has prompted mourning among supporters, with a large crowd gathering for his funeral in Baghdad. Shia clerics, tribal leaders, and military figures paid tribute to al-Saadi, praising his role as a "new generation of resistance fighters." There has been an increase in conflict in the area between US soldiers and militias supported by Iran, and this escalation. Tensions got worse when the US launched airstrikes on militia locations in Syria and Iraq in response to earlier assaults. US Central Command defended its course of action, stating that it was necessary for the safety of US soldiers while indicating that it was prepared to face any threats, according to The Guardian. Read Also: Azerbaijani Presidential Win Widely Criticized Iraq Reacts to US Strike Reactions to the American attack have been diverse in Iraq's difficult political environment. Some factions, especially Kurdish and Sunni parties, see US soldiers as a counterweight to expanding Iranian dominance, while others want a forceful reaction to foreign presence. However, discussions over Iraqi sovereignty and the need of a foreign military presence have returned due to the audacity of the Baghdad attacks. The prime minister of Iraq declared a time of mourning for the whole state and condemned the foreign forces' violation of their sovereignty as the crisis developed. The effects of this happening raise critical considerations about the future course of US participation in the area and its consequences for stability. Diplomatic efforts and regional cooperation will be essential in averting further escalation while encouraging a path towards peace and stability in the Middle East in the face of rising tensions. However, finding long-lasting solutions is very difficult due to the underlying complexity of regional dynamics and conflicting interests, New York Post reported. Related Article: Azerbaijani Incumbent Uses Route of Ethnic Armenian Separatists To Bolster Reelection Russian electoral officials denied anti-war lawmaker Boris Nadezhdin permission to run for president next month on Thursday, sending a clear message to the Kremlin that it would not stand for any kind of popular protest against the invasion of Ukraine. The Central Election Commission's decision makes it much simpler for President Vladimir Putin to secure a fifth term in office. With his firm grip on Russia's political system, Putin is virtually certain to win the March 15-17 election against weak resistance from pro-Kremlin candidates, as per to South China Morning Post. Russian Commission Disqualifies Nadezhdin The Central Election Commission of Russia has dealt a blow to the opposition by disqualifying Boris Nadezhdin as a candidate in the upcoming presidential election, citing irregularities in the signatures submitted in support of his candidacy. According to the commission, over 9,000 signatures out of more than 100,000 collected for Nadezhdin were deemed flawed, exceeding the allowable error rate by threefold, providing grounds for his disqualification. In response to the decision, the Kremlin offered no additional commentary, stating that the commission adhered to established rules. Nadezhdin's disqualification was widely anticipated, following earlier findings by an election commission working group that deemed 15% of the signatures invalid. Deputy Chair Nikolai Bulaev had also revealed the discovery of 11 "dead souls" among the signatures. Nadezhdin, a seasoned politician with ties to both Kremlin insiders and opposition circles, had mounted a last-minute campaign to secure a spot on the ballot. His outspoken opposition to Putin's military operation in Ukraine garnered significant attention and support. Putin's decision to begin the war was condemned by Nadezhdin in his election results system, who said that it pulled Russia back into the past. In spite of being disqualified, Nadezhdin reaffirmed the significance of his candidacy in the political scene by vowing to appeal the decision at the nation's top court, according to The Guardian. Read Also: Azerbaijani Voters Head to Polls in Early Presidential Election Putin's Re-election Certain While Nadezhdin's candidacy posed little threat to Putin's reelection, his campaign resonated with many Russians dissatisfied with the war in Ukraine. His disqualification leaves few avenues for opposition voices to be heard in the upcoming election, which is expected to see Putin secure another term in office. The Kremlin's concern over Nadezhdin's unexpected popularity was reflected in a smear campaign orchestrated by state media. Political analysts suggest that Nadezhdin's growing support and outreach efforts to anti-war Russians abroad had become politically inconvenient for the Kremlin. The disqualification of Nadezhdin follows the rejection of another anti-war candidate, Yekaterina Duntsova, by the elections commission. Duntsova's nomination was rejected due to alleged errors in her paperwork. As Russia's electoral commission registers candidates for the polls, Putin is poised to secure another six-year term in the upcoming vote, solidifying his position as one of the longest-serving leaders in Russian history. Despite concerns raised over Nadezhdin's legitimacy as a genuine opposition candidate, high-profile supporters of jailed Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny rallied behind his candidacy. The exclusion of Nadezhdin reflects the difficulties came across by opposition voices in Russia's political scene as the Kremlin prepares for Putin to win the election handily, The Telegraph reported. Related Article: Armenia, Azerbaijan Exchange Prisoners as Part of Normalization of Relations Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has taken legal action, alleging that a county coroner engaged in theft of cash from a deceased individual and provided inaccurate information regarding the causes of death for many people. Bailey has also submitted a petition to have Cape Girardeau County Coroner Wavis Jordan dismissed from his position. The individual is facing multiple charges, including three felonies for providing false information to vital records and one misdemeanor for stealing, as per to Fox News. Republican AG Pursues Removal of Public Officials A sitting Republican has a track record of using legal procedures to pursue the removal of public officials. In the past, they have initiated similar proceedings against former St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kimberly N. Gardner and the former Iron County sheriff. Jordan, also a Republican, assumed office in 2021 and drew attention that same year for his admission of underreporting COVID-19 fatalities. Instead of attributing deaths to the virus, Jordan frequently recorded myocardial infarction, colloquially known as a heart attack, as the cause of death, leading to inaccuracies in pandemic-related mortality data. The precise record of causes of death on official records is of utmost importance, as it serves an essential part in generating death figures, guiding medical research funding, setting public health priorities, and assessing health indicators across various tiers of governance. Bailey identified the value of this procedure. Apart from allegations of faking death certificates, Bailey mentioned cases of stealing and inappropriate behavior by Jordan. Court documents state that a police investigation turned up anomalies in the way a dead person's wallet was handled; although it was documented by officials as carrying cash, Jordan subsequently discovered it to be empty, according to St. Louis Post Dispatch. Read Also: Iceland's Grindavik Volcano Erupts Again, Destroys Fishing Town Coroner Faces Felony Charges Furthermore, Bailey detailed instances where Jordan allegedly misled family members regarding the circumstances of a deceased individual's passing, suggesting falsification of death certificates for personal convenience. The charges brought against Jordan encompass three felony counts of providing false information to vital records, along with one misdemeanor count of stealing. If convicted, Jordan faces a potential sentence of up to 12 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Efforts to reach Jordan for comment were unsuccessful, and his next court appearance is scheduled for March 8. Responding to the legal action against Jordan, the Cape Girardeau County Commission issued a statement affirming its awareness of the situation and its commitment to monitoring the legal proceedings. The commission emphasized the need for an impartial resolution and pledged to adhere to judicial directives. Meanwhile, discussions regarding the future of the coroner's office have already begun within the commission. Considerations include the possibility of transitioning to a medical examiner system as an alternative to the current coroner structure. The administrative and juridical circumstances surrounding Jordan's term as Cape Girardeau Coroner are still being examined and discussed with regard to all of this, US News reported. Related Article: Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula Volcano May Burn for Some Time, Volcanologists Say BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Secretary General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Hissein Brahim Taha sent a congratulatory letter to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on a confident victory in the extraordinary presidential election, Trend reports. "Your Excellency Mr. President, I am honored to convey to Your Excellency my heartfelt congratulations on your re-election to the high office of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan. I am pleased to note the strong relations existing between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). I assure Your Excellency of my keen desire to enhance these relations for our mutual benefit. The OIC is confident that Azerbaijan, under Your Excellency's wise leadership, will maintain its unwavering support to the just causes of the OIC. I pray to Allah the Almighty to grant Your Excellency success in your noble endeavor in the service of your great country. Please accept, Mr. President, the assurances of my highest consideration and regards," the letter said. Candidates who joined the New York special election debate clashed amid their efforts to take the recently vacated seat by Rep. George Santos. The Thursday event had templates flare up when candidates repeatedly shouted over each other in the lone debate of the high-stakes special election on battleground Long Island. On one hand, Democrat Tom Suozzi blasted Republican-backed Mazi Pilip for highlighting challenges such as border security without detailing how she would resolve them. New York Special Election Debate He argued that she did not have any solutions for the problems whatsoever, adding that his rival was only listing one problem after another. In response, Pilip sought to portray Suozzi, who is a former member of Congress, as polished but not practical. She said that the difference between the two candidates was that he was a talker while she was a person who would deliver. The heightened tensions in the special debate ahead of a Tuesday vote underscored just how crucial the parties consider the seat that Santos vacated, as per Politico. A win for the Republican Party would help it grow its narrow majority in the House while a win for the Democratic Party would help buoy it as it needs to flip seats in November to capture the gavel. Currently, the race for Santos' seat is a statistical dead heat as a Thursday Newsday/Siena College poll showed that Suozzi led Pilip by a four-point spread that is within the survey's margin of error. The confrontational face-off also served as a study of contrasts as Suozzi, who had spent three decades in elected office, was steady and his answers were specific. On the other hand, Pilip, who is considered a political novice, retreated to familiar lines during the debate. During the event, Suozzi made occasional references to Santos, where he usually suggested that Pilip is similarly "unvetted." The two candidates tried to one-up each other on various issues, including immigration, abortion, the economy, and Israel, according to CNN. Read Also: US Supreme Court Likely To Reject Donald Trump Ballot Disqualification Argument Candidates Clash on Various Issues Suozzi, who has also held multiple officers in Nassau County, comes into the race as the better-known quantity. He has just left his House seat in 2022 to run for governor, which ended in failure. On the other hand, Pilip is less familiar but also brings a distinct background into the race as she was born in Ethiopia before emigrating as a child to Israel. There, she attended school and served in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). She is also a registered Democrat but has pledged to change that after the election. New York is located roughly 2,000 miles from the U.S.-Mexico border but it was clear that the race has become a referendum on the influx of migrants trying to cross it. The only question now is who will take the blame in the eyes of frustrated voters. Pilip also accused Suozzi of siding with United States President Joe Biden and far-left members of the House "squad" to encourage illegal immigration. Suozzi denounced the accusations, calling them "absurd," and noting that he supported Immigration and Customs Enforcement, said the New York Times. Related Article: US Senate Advances $95 Billion Ukraine, Israel Aid Bill After Failed Negotiations on Border Deal The defense team of Adam Montgomery has shifted the responsibility for the tragic death of his five-year-old daughter onto his estranged wife, Kayla Montgomery. Adam Montgomery, 34, is currently on trial in Manchester, New Hampshire for the tragic murder of his daughter Harmony Montgomery in December 2019. Shortly after the jury selection process completed on Tuesday, Adam Montgomery made a shocking announcement stating that he intended to enter a guilty plea to two lesser crimes related to the Harmony's death: abusing a body and fabricating facts, as per The Independent. Adam Montgomery Accused of Harmony Montgomery's Murder The trial of Adam Montgomery, accused of the brutal murder of his daughter Harmony, began today, shedding light on a harrowing tale of neglect, abuse, and concealment. Prosecutors detailed a timeline of events leading up to Harmony's disappearance in 2019, alleging that Montgomery subjected the young girl to unimaginable suffering before disposing of her remains. According to Assistant New Hampshire Attorney General Christopher Knowles, Montgomery, while collecting welfare payments on behalf of his daughter, lived a transient life with his now-estranged wife, Kayla, out of a car. Prosecutors claim that Montgomery not only beat Kayla but also subjected Harmony to repeated violence. On the day investigators believe Harmony died, she allegedly suffered abuse at the hands of her father after soiling herself in her sleep. Prosecutors described in detail what happened on that fatal day: after Harmony's alleged assault, Montgomery and Kayla went about their daily lives, picking up fast food and narcotics. Montgomery allegedly persisted in his aggressive actions in spite of the small girl's sobs and groans, harming his daughter once more before finishing the meal and using drugs. Harmony's health declined, resulting in a horrific number of things that ended in her death. Montgomery disposed of her corpse in an unkind manner, according to the prosecution, hiding it for months in several places until disposing of it close to Boston, according to Fox News. Read Also: Special Counsel Says Biden 'Willfully Retained and Disclosed Classified Materials' Kayla Montgomery Implicates Husband Despite Montgomery's absence from the trial's opening day, his presence looms large over the proceedings. His estranged wife, Kayla Montgomery, is also facing charges related to Harmony's disappearance. However, in a plea deal, Kayla provided damning testimony against her husband, implicating him in Harmony's death and cover-up. The case has drawn widespread attention and raised questions about the handling of child custody cases. Harmony's biological mother, Crystal Sorey, expressed frustration with authorities' handling of the situation, especially after learning that her daughter had never been enrolled in school. Montgomery's defense team attempted to shift blame onto Kayla, painting her as the primary perpetrator in Harmony's death. Despite their efforts, prosecutors maintain that Montgomery played a central role in the young girl's demise and subsequent concealment of her body. As the trial progresses, prosecutors are expected to call key witnesses, including Harmony's foster mother, biological mother, and relatives who may shed light on Montgomery's history of violence and neglect. The police is requesting that anyone with information on Harmony's whereabouts come forward as they continue their hunt for justice. The trial may reveal the truth about Harmony's terrible purpose, giving her bereaved family and friends some much-needed justice, CBS News reported. Related Article: US Funding for UNWRA Blocked in Senate, Raises Alarm on Palestinians Amid Gaza Conflict Former United States President Donald Trump is on course to win the Nevada Republican caucus with an overwhelming majority as he has no serious challengers in the race. This comes as the Republican businessman also recently won against former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley in the U.S. Virgin Islands caucus. However, the two did not face off in the Nevada caucus. Nevada Republican Caucus This was due to Haley opting not to participate in the caucus and instead was listed in the Nevada primary, where she lost to the "none of these candidates" option. The Thursday caucus comes after the former president already saw sweeping victories in two crucial early primary states, Iowa and New Hampshire. Trump's victory in the Nevada Republican caucus was not surprising as his supporters in the state organized the caucuses. This is despite a new state law that requires the parties to hold presidential primaries. Nevada's GOP responded to the issue by holding a non-binding primary and keeping its caucuses. This was a benefit to the former president, given his support among the state's Republican leadership, as per USA Today. Many Trump Republicans used the Tuesday primary to cast ballots for "none of these candidates" to flex their influence. This was a category that carried more than 63% of the vote, which equated to roughly 200,000 people, compared to Haley who got just over 30%. On Thursday, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) said that Trump can win a Republican caucus in Nevada. However, it vowed that he would lose the Silver State in the general election later this year, similar to what has happened twice before. In a statement, DNC Rapid Response Director Alex Floyd said that nobody knows how to lose in Nevada like Trump. He argued that the former president's back-to-back losses in the Silver State in 2016 and 2020 made him the first Republican in decades to lose the state twice. Read Also: Supreme Court Debates Removal of Trump from Ballot Following Capitol Attack Donald Trump's Victories For the past four presidential elections, Democrats have won Nevada but in 2022, Republican Joe Lombardo was elected as governor. He has already endorsed Trump for president ahead of the general election, according to CNBC. The Nevada Republican Party will award 26 delegates proportionally based on the results of the caucuses on Thursday. The former president's victory in the small, in-person voting events was all but assured. The only other candidate on the ballot was Ryan Binkley, who is a pastor and a long-shot presidential hopeful. Besty Ankney, Haley's campaign manager, downplayed the importance of this week's Nevada contests. She said that they did not spend a dime nor an ounce of energy on the Silver State, adding that they did not even count it. Due to the unusual nature of the dueling contests, it was possible for voters to be confused. Furthermore, Trump's campaign feared that the former president could underperform against expectations because of the situation. The next race where Haley could challenge Trump's influence is in the South Carolina primary that is scheduled to be held on Feb. 24, 2024, said Axios. Related Article: US Supreme Court Likely To Reject Donald Trump Ballot Disqualification Argument The Hubble Space Telescope shared an image showing the "string of pearls" star clusters that were born from galaxy collisions. Contrary to what many might think, colliding galaxies do not destroy stars, instead, the chaotic situation triggers the creation of new stars and presumably other planets. Now, the space telescope has homed in on 12 interacting galaxies that have long, tadpole-like tidal tails composed of gas, dust, and a plethora of stars. Hubble Discovers "String of Pearls" Star Clusters Hubble's exquisite sharpness and sensitivity to ultraviolet light helped it discover 425 clusters of newborn stars along these tails. They look like strings of holiday lights and each cluster contains as many as 1 million blue, newborn stars. For decades, scientists have known about clusters in tidal tails which result when galaxies interact, leading to gravitational tidal forces that pull out long streamers of gas and dust. Two popular examples of this are the Antennae and Mice galaxies which have long, narrow, finger-like projections, as per SciTechDaily. A team of astronomers used a combination of new observations and archival data to determine the ages and masses of tidal tail star clusters. They also found that these clusters are still very young, roughly about 10 million years old. They were also said to have been forming at the same rate along tails stretching for thousands of light-years. Read Also: Scientists Discover Hidden Ocean Beneath Death Star-Like Moon of Saturn In a statement, the lead author, Michael Rodruck of Randolph-Macon College in Ashland, Virginia, said that it was a surprise to see a lot of the young objects in the tails. He added that it tells them a lot about cluster formation efficiency. The tidal tails look like they are taking a galaxy's spiral arm and stretching it out into the vastness of space. The exterior part of the arm also looks like it gets pulled like taffy from the gravitation tug-of-war between a pair of interacting galaxies. Stars Born From Galaxy Collisions Prior to the mergers, the galaxies were rich in dusty clouds filled with molecular hydrogen that simply remained inert. However, the clouds got tossed around and bumped into each other during the encounters. This resulted in the hydrogen getting compressed to the point where it precipitated a firestorm of star birth, according to NASA. However, the fate of these strung-out star clusters is still uncertain and they may stay gravitationally intact and evolve into globular star clusters. This is similar to the ones that orbit outside the plane of our Milky Way galaxy. On the other hand, they can also disperse to form a halo of stars around their host galaxy or get cast off to become wandering intergalactic stars. The discovery comes after Hubble also captured a dazzling new photo that shows the luminous blue compact galaxy (BCG) known as ESO 185-IG013 located in the constellation Telescopium. In a statement, Hubble astronomers said that BCGs are nearby galaxies that show an intense burst of star formation. They added that these are unusually blue in visible light, which sets them apart from other high-starburst galaxies that emit more infrared light. The astronomers noted that they study these systems because they provide a relatively close-by equivalent for galaxies that were found in the early universe, said SciNews. Related Article: NASA Launches $948 Million PACE Satellite to Study Earth's Oceans, Atmosphere China issued a serious warning to the Philippines regarding its planned military expansion near Taiwan. The Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson shared his remarks after the announcement of Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. Previously, Teodoro confirmed that they will raise the PH military presence in Batanes; a Philippine province located only 200 kilometers from Taiwan. He explained that they wanted to mobilize more Filipino soldiers to the remote Batanes islands so Manila's territorial defense capabilities could be fortified. However, China wasn't having this plan. Here's what the Chinese foreign ministry official said to the Philippines. China Warns Philippines Over Military Expansion Near Taiwan During a press conference, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said that the Philippines should not cross Beijing's core interests. "I want to stress again that the Taiwan question is at the heart of China's core interests and is a red line and bottom line that must not be crossed," he said via Inquirer.Net (translated). "Relevant parties in the Philippines need to understand it clearly, tread carefully, and don't play with fire on this (Taiwan) question to avoid being manipulated and eventually hurt," added the Chinese official. Wang Wenbin further stated that since the Philippines and China are close neighbors, their relations should only be "friendly exchanges." "Neighbors should get along with each other based on the principle of good-neighborliness, friendship, mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and non-interference in each others' internal affairs," added Wenbin. Read Also: Philippines' Marcos Hoping for Maritime Cooperation With Vietnam During State Visit Why Philippines Want To Expand Military Presence Near Taiwan According to Time Magazine, there are numerous reasons why the Philippine government is closely watching Taiwan as its conflict with China intensifies. To be clear, the Philippines has no official diplomatic ties with Taiwan and recognizes the "One China" policy of the Chinese government. However, Philippine President Bongbong Marcos still strengthened its military relations with Taiwan's allies. These include Japan, the U.S., and other nations. Experts said that this effort of the Philippine government can allow it to help Taiwan's allies in case China launches a surprise full-blown invasion against the self-governed island country. This just shows that the Philippines is willing to support its allies to prevent a potential Chinese takeover of Taiwan. Aside from this, the Philippine government is also worried about the invasion's negative effects on overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). As of writing, over 160,000 Filipinos are working in Taiwan. Bongbong Marcos explained that allowing the United States to have access to Philippine military bases would be critical to rescuing OFWs if China really decides to invade the neighboring island nation. Related Article: Chinese Embassy Denies Philippines' Cyberattack Allegations-Cracking Down on All Forms of Hacking, Says Beijing After heavy international criticism, including from the U.S., Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced his plan to evacuate civilians from Rafah ahead of the military's invasion of the densely populated southern Gaza city. Rafah borders Egypt and now holds hundreds of thousands of Palestinians living in slummy tent camps after being forced to flee their homes in Gaza. Israel intends to move ground forces into the city and claims Rafah is the last remaining "Hamas stronghold" in Gaza. "It is impossible to achieve the goal of the war of eliminating Hamas by leaving four Hamas battalions in Rafah," Netanyahu's office said in a statement. "On the contrary, it is clear that intense activity in Rafah requires that civilians evacuate the areas of combat." It said he had ordered the military and security officials to come up with a "combined plan" that included both a mass evacuation of civilians and the destruction of Hamas' forces in the town. Netanyahu has continuously rejected the international criticism over the Palestinian death toll, elaborating that Hamas is responsible for endangering civilians by operating and hiding in residential areas. The criticism continues to build, even more so in recent days as Netanyahu and other leaders vow to move into Rafah. According to The Associated Press, U.S. President Joe Biden stated Israel's conduct in the war is "over the top." While the State Department said an invasion of Rafah in the current circumstances "would be a disaster." The operation seems impossible as it remains unclear where Palestinians can go. The Israeli offensive is the cause of widespread destruction, especially in northern Gaza, where hundreds of thousands of people do not have homes to return to. More than half of Gaza's 2.3 million population are sheltering in Rafah, pushed against the border wall and living outside. Egypt has repeatedly warned that any movement of Palestinians across the border into Egypt would threaten the four-decade-old peace treaty between Israel and Egypt. The border crossing, which has been closed, normally serves as a main entry point for humanitarian aid. The AP reports Israel has already begun to launch airstrikes into Rafah. Airstrikes overnight and into Friday hit two residential buildings, while two others were bombed in central Gaza. That includes a damaged kindergarten-turned-shelter for displaced Palestinians. Twenty-two Palestinians were killed according to AP journalists who saw the bodies arriving at the hospitals. Doctors and aid workers revealed to Reuters that they are struggling to supply basic aid and stop the spread of disease. "No war can be allowed in a gigantic refugee camp," said Jan Egeland, Secretary-General of the Norwegian Refugee Council, warning of a "bloodbath" if Israeli operations expand there. In a further sign of the war's impact, almost one in 10 Gazans under five are now acutely malnourished, according to initial U.N. data from arm measurements that show physical wasting, reported Reuters. The charity ActionAid also told the publication some Gazans were eating grass. "Every single person in Gaza is now hungry, and people have just 1.5 to 2 liters of unsafe water per day to meet all their needs," it said. 27,947 Palestinians were confirmed killed, 107 of them in the previous 24 hours, and 67,459 injured. Hours before Netanyahu's statement, Israeli warplanes raided the area killing at least 15 Palestinians, eight of whom reside in Rafah. "We were sleeping inside and, when the strike hit, were thrown outside. After that, another rocket hit," said Mohammed al-Nahal, an elderly Palestinian standing beside the rubble of a building that had been hit. "It destroyed the entire home. My daughter was killed. My daughter, her husband, her son, all were martyred." Israeli military reiterated their plan of action in Gaza is to eliminate militant cells and destroy militant infrastructure. U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken visited the Middle East this week, in the hope of bringing optimism to the region. President Joe Biden, 81, is fighting claims challenging his memory problems. A special counsel's report investigating his possession of classified documents intensified longtime concerns over his age and memory. According to The Associated Press, the report described the 81-year-old Democrat's memory as "hazy," "fuzzy," "faulty," "poor" and having "significant limitations." It noted that Biden could not recall defining milestones in his own life, such as when his son Beau died or when he served as vice president. "My memory is fine," Biden responded Thursday night from the White House, where he grew visibly angry as he denied forgetting when his son died. Beau Biden died of brain cancer in 2015 at the age of 46. Biden will not face charges for mishandling classified documents. However, the report's claims about his memory could undermine Biden's message to voters that he is qualified to manage and safeguard the country. Voters have expressed grave concern and reluctance over Biden's age, emphasizing his blunders, slow walk, health, and bike fall. As Biden tried to defend himself, he found himself in another heavily scrutinized gaffe when he mistakenly referred to Egypt's leader Abdel Fattah El-Sissi as "the president of Mexico." when discussing the Israel-Hamas war. Time Magazine reported that White House officials immediately thought the report by Special Counsel Robert Hur, a Republican and former Trump appointee, crossed a line and implied some of those observations might not be true. How Did Biden Handle It? Hours later, Biden took things further, holding a rare evening press conference at the White House adamantly disputing Hur's characterization of his mental sharpness. Biden was especially outraged by the report's allegation that he had forgotten when his son, Beau, had died. How in the hell dare he raise that," Biden said. "Frankly, when I was asked the question, I thought to myself, wasn't any of their damn business," the President continued, adding that he carries with him every day a rosary that belonged to Beau and his family holds a service for Beau every Memorial Day. "I don't need anyone to remind me when he passed away," Biden said. "For any extraneous commentary, they don't know what they're talking about. It has no place in this report." "I'm well-meaning and I'm an elderly man and I know what I'm doing. I've been President, I put this country back on its feet," continued Biden. The report comes at an unlucky time for Biden, who is constantly criticized for using wrong names for the leaders of France and Germany while giving remarks. An NBC News poll released Tuesday found that 62% of voters have major concerns that Biden doesn't have the mental and physical health to be President for a second term. Biden concluded, "Bottom line is the special counsel in my case decided against moving forward on any charges. This matter is now closed." New York is on lockdown and cautioned to stay alert as a manhunt is underway for a gunman who shot and injured a tourist in Times Square. ABC News reported three individuals entered JD Sports, a clothing and sneaker store, at about 7 p.m. Thursday and started stealing merchandise on the second floor, NYPD Chief of Patrol John Chell said. Two of the three suspects went to the lobby, where a female security guard confronted them and took back the stolen property, Chell said. The gunman fired toward the security guard but instead shot a 38-year-old woman visiting New York from Brazil. She is expected to recover. How Did The Gunman Get Away? The suspect then fled before firing two shots at a pursuing officer a few blocks away. The officer wasn't hit and didn't return fire because there were too many people nearby, police said. The suspect then dumped his shoes and jacket and escaped to a subway station, where he ran onto the tracks, police said. He later ran out of the subway station and remains at large. One of the suspected boys, 15, was interviewed by detectives and later released. "An attack on a cop is an attack on all of us!" NYPD Deputy Commissioner Kaz Daughtry tweeted. "This coward shot at a hard-working, innocent New Yorker and then opened fire on one of our officers. ... This individual continues to pose a danger and must be caught immediately." According to The Associated Press, the police described the shooter as a male between 15 and 20 years old. "We are looking for one male. He is the shooter," Chief of Patrol John Chell said at a news conference at the scene Thursday. "He shot at our cops not once but twice, and also shot an innocent female one time in the leg." A second person was taken into custody in relation to the shootings. Crime rates in New York City have plummeted since a spike at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. The number of people shot in the city dropped 39% between 2022 and 2023 and holds place into the new year. A reward of as much as $10,000 was offered for information. On Thursday, the Federal Communications Commission banned robocalls containing voices generated by artificial intelligence, a decision that sends a message to those who would exploit the technology for nefarious purposes. The unanimous ruling against AI voice cloning falls under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991, a law that restricts junk calls. Though AI was nonexistent at the time, there's a clear connection between junk calls and AI voice-cloning. That commonality is to fool or scam the listener. This comes as authorities in New Hampshire are advancing an ongoing investigation into AI-generated robocalls mimicking the voice of President Joe Biden discouraging voters to forego the primaries. The regulation gives the FCC authority to fine companies that use these practices or block the service providers that enable them. It also opens the door for lawsuits that give state attorney generals a weapon to crack down on offenders. Texas Attorney General John Foremlla said on Tuesday that investigators identified Life Corp, a company based in Texas, and own Walter Monk, as the source of robocalls that went out to thousands of state residents, mostly registered Democrats. The calls were transmitted through a company called Lingo Telecom. The calls featured an AI-cloned voice of President Joe Biden and urged voters to abstain from voting in the New Hampshire primary elections. Authorities have issued cease-and-desist orders and subpoenas against Life Corporation and another company they say transmitted the calls. "What a bunch of malarkey," the fake Biden voice said. "You know the value of voting Democratic when our votes count. It's important that you save your vote for the November election. We'll 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." "New Hampshire had a taste of how AI can be used inappropriately in the election process," New Hampshire Secretary of State David Scanlan said. "It is certainly appropriate to try and get our arms around the use and the enforcement so that we're not misleading the voting population in a way that could harm our elections." What Does The FCC Say? The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) says that both Lingo Telecom and Life Corp. have been investigated for illegal robocalls in the past. LIngo Telecom released a statement saying they "acted immediately" to help the investigation into the Biden impersonation and that they had "had no involvement whatsoever in the production of the call content." The FCC chairwoman, Jessica Rosenworcel, said bad actors have been using AI-generated voices in robocalls to misinform voters, impersonate celebrities, and extort family members. "It seems like something from the far-off future, but this threat is already here," Rosenworcel told The Associated Press on Wednesday as the commission was considering the regulations. "All of us could be on the receiving end of these faked calls, so that's why we felt the time to act was now." Under the consumer protection law, companies cannot use automated dialers, or artificial or prerecorded voice messages to call cellphones, and they cannot make such calls to landlines without prior written consent from the call recipient. The new ruling classifies AI-generated voices in robocalls as "artificial" and thus enforceable by the same standards, the FCC said. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov has held a phone talk with his newly reappointed Georgian counterpart Ilia Darchiashvili, the Foreign Ministry of Azerbaijan told Trend. Bayramov congratulated Darchiashvili on his reappointment as Foreign Minister in Georgia's new administration and wished him continued success in this distinguished position. The parties reviewed the two nations' current friendly relations and strategic collaboration, as well as current goals and potential for future enhancements. The ministers also discussed regional challenges and potential opportunities for cooperation within international institutions. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Hyping up the myth about an imminent threat from Azerbaijan, Armenia still continues to "de facto encroach on territorial integrity of our country, remarked Elchin Amirbayov, the Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan on special assignments, in his interview with RFE/RL radio, Trend reports. An article by RFE/RL correspondent Joshua Kucera delving into the peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan highlights the recent trend of Baku and Yerevan favoring direct bilateral contacts due to a lack of trust in various mediators. These direct engagements have already begun to yield tangible results, notably demonstrated by the agreement reached last December for the release of detainees and mutual diplomatic support in preparation for the COP29 international climate conference in Baku. "Armenia and Azerbaijan are already mature and capable enough to resolve the remaining issues between themselves, and progress in this direction is well underway," emphasized Elchin Amirbekov against the backdrop of the prevailing opinion that persistent interference from major external players could turn the peace agreement into a stage for geopolitical competition between two opposing blocs. The President`s representative labelled as "complete nonsense" the recent statement by the head of European diplomacy, Josep Borrell, in which he pointed to Azerbaijan`s territorial claims against Armenia and called on Baku to return to substantive negotiations with Iravan. "Accusations against Azerbaijan of purported territorial claims against Armenia are nothing more than a failed and futile attempt to shift blame on someone else. It is enough to look at the current Constitution of Armenia and the reference therein to the declaration of independence of this country, which enshrines the arbitrary and absolutely illegitimate decision on the so-called 'reunification of the Armenian SSR with Nagorno-Karabakh," noted Elchin Amirbekov. In conclusion, the Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan on special assignments highlighted many such concrete facts, mentioning the official website of the Armenian Foreign Ministry, which still presents the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan as an integral part of historical Armenia. We have repeatedly brought all our above-mentioned concerns to the attention of the Armenian side, but, unfortunately, no concrete actions aimed at their elimination have been taken by them so far. Alongside the remaining territorial claims against our country, the deliberate spreading of ridiculous rumours about the imminent threat from Azerbaijan is not only a trick, but also a path to nowhere," Elchin Amirbayov added. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Ilham Aliyev and his son Heydar Aliyev have visited the Air Force military facilities and watched the flyover of the Akinci unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UAV), which had been recently introduced into service, Trend reports. Defense Minister Colonel General Zakir Hasanov reported to President, Victorious Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev. President Ilham Aliyev visited the UAV Academy to inspect the facilities. The Defense Minister and Chief Technology Officer of Turkiyes Baykar company Selcuk Bayraktar briefed the head of state on the Academys capabilities and UAVs. They highlighted the comprehensive training environment provided for military personnel. The Academy is fitted with state-of-the-art tools and equipment. Afterward, the Commander-in-Chief proceeded to the runway for different types of UAVs at the military facility. After watching the take-off of the Akinci combat UAV, President Ilham Aliyev practically flew the UAV at the control station. The President of Azerbaijan signed the UAV after watching its landing. Then, President Ilham Aliyev toured the hangar complexes. The hangars are designed to accommodate various types of UAVs, including the newly accepted Akinci combat UAV, as well as other aviation-technical equipment. The Victorious Commander-in-Chief also familiarized himself with the Akinci combat UAV and aerial bombs housed within the facilities. Later, a group photo was taken. The Pacers, Sixers, and Spurs have folded a pair of separate trade agreements into a single transaction, announcing in a series of press releases that the deals sending Buddy Hield to Philadelphia and Doug McDermott to Indiana have been officially completed as a three-team trade. The Pacers initially agreed to acquire Marcus Morris, Furkan Korkmaz, three second-round picks, and cash from Philadelphia in exchange for Hield, then reached a deal to flip Morris, one of those second-rounders to San Antonio, and cash for McDermott. Those three pieces will go directly to the Spurs instead. Here are the full details: Sixers acquire Hield. Pacers acquire McDermott, Korkmaz, the Raptors 2024 second-round pick (from Sixers), the Trail Blazers 2029 second-round pick (from Sixers), and cash (from Sixers). Spurs acquire Morris, the Clippers 2029 second-round pick (from Sixers), and cash (from Sixers). The 2024 second-round pick going from Philadelphia to Indiana technically includes most favorable language and could come from a different team, but theres essentially no chance it wont be Torontos second-rounder, given their place in the standings. Folding the two trades into one deal doesnt materially change much, but it will introduce one notable new wrinkle. If Morris had been traded to Indiana, then sent to San Antonio in a separate deal, he wouldve been eligible to re-sign with the Sixers in the event the Spurs buy him out. However, due to the structure of the deal, he now wont be permitted to sign with Philadelphia if hes waived by San Antonio. A player is prohibited from rejoining a team that traded him if his new team waives him, but if hes traded twice before being cut, hes only ineligible to join the club that traded him most recently. Korkmaz, who is being waived by the Pacers, will also be prohibited from re-signing with the Sixers, though as we noted in a separate story, that was never a likely outcome. For more details on the Hield and McDermott deals, check out our full stories on the trade agreements. The vibrant "Polanquito" area welcomes Kimpton Virgilio, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants' first boutique hotel in Mexico City, with a unique concept of absurdly personalized experiences and a modern and original gastronomic offer. Kimpton Virgilio is a property that delivers the perfect balance between the coziness and exclusivity of a boutique hotel and the support of IHG Hotels & Resorts. Developed by ZKC, an investment fund specializing in real estate developments in Mexico City, this hotel will be the epicenter of Polanquito for those who enjoy new adventures with a touch of sophistication and local flavor. Comprised of 48 comfortably designed rooms (designed by Arquitectura de Interiores Studio), Kimpton Virgilio offers through its spaces a sober and modern Mexican tone, with options designed for both short and long stays. Kimpton Virgilio delivers in every corner, the vibe, and nuances of Mexico City, as it is full of details produced by local hands: from furniture to art pieces, current music, and decoration. The design concept of the hotel is focused on the guest, both in their needs and their comfort so that the accommodation is meaningful and different. The property has a street-side restaurant called Pepe: Mesa Espanola, the new proposal for modern Iberian food in CDMX. This gastronomic proposal is a redefinition of traditional Spanish cuisine with international touches. Kimpton Virgilio's highly personalized experiences will seek to captivate visitors, and will do so throughout the spaces, environments, gastronomic proposal, and mixology, to be the hallmark that defines the property as a must-visit place in the area. Hotel website Seibu Prince Hotels & Resorts, the leading hospitality company with a diverse collection of hotels, resorts and other leisure facilities within Japan and across the world, today unveils The Prince Kitano New York following a years-long renovation. Formerly known as The Kitano Hotel New York, the refreshed property now sits within The Prince portfolio, the company's flagship hotel brand characterized by exceptional elegance, comfort and privacy. The Prince Kitano New York is Seibu Prince Hotels & Resorts' first property located in the continental U.S., marking a significant step forward in the company's ongoing evolution from a top Japanese hotel brand to a global hospitality powerhouse. Located at 66 Park Avenue, The Prince Kitano New York is centrally positioned with convenient access to Grand Central Terminal, the Chrysler Building, the Empire State Building and other iconic landmarks. The property boasts a storied legacy dating back to the 19th century when the building was owned by the Rockefeller family. In 1973, it found new life as The Kitano Hotel New York, gaining renown as the first Japanese-owned hotel in New York City. The hotel built a loyal following in subsequent years, welcoming not only leisure travelers around the world but also venerated politicians, business leaders and dignitaries from Japan and beyond. Now operated by Seibu Prince Hotels & Resorts, The Prince Kitano New York will continue to pay homage to its deep history with heartfelt hospitality and luxurious experiences rooted in Japanese culture. To spearhead the redesign of several signature spaces throughout the property, Prince Hotels & Resorts tapped global architecture firm Modellus Novus, who has worked on other high-profile projects such as James Beard Award-winning chef Kwame Onwuachi's restaurant Tatiana at Lincoln Center; HBX, Hypebeast's flagship store in New York City; and the upcoming opening of Michelin-starred restaurant concept COTE in Singapore. As a result, the lobby, restaurant areas and guestrooms have been revitalized with a modernized yet timeless look, reflecting the enduring esteem and heritage of the property. The lobby, which acts both as a central socialization hub for guests and locals alike and as a passageway to the many destinations within the hotel, was refined with new elements nodding to the property's Japanese influence. Upon entering the building, guests are greeted by an impressive dog sculpture made by the world-famous Colombian artist Fernando Botero. The bronze sculpture, having welcomed generations of guests who established a tradition of petting it for good fortune, was shifted to the lobby's entrance as its piece de resistance. Akari Light Sculptures from Isamu Noguchi illuminate the space while celebrating modernist, Japanese craftsmanship. Rice paper accents, blue suede chairs, pea green velvet pillows and eggplant-colored carpets introduce bold textures and colors yet work in harmony to create a comforting, classic ambiance. The hotel boasts 150 accommodations, with 109 guestrooms and suites refurbished as part of the reopening. Reaching up to 968 square feet, the revamped rooms were enhanced with a warm color palette, lush fabrics and unique artwork to create an inviting and restful atmosphere for guests to find respite from the city bustle. For an elevated overnight experience combining form and function, guests can book the Deluxe Junior Suite. The spacious suite complements a spacious layout, modern amenities and custom furniture with high-quality design details, such as Dark Emperador stone finishes, hair-on hide leather upholstery and Spanish marble countertops, all of which come together to create a serene hideaway in the heart of Manhattan. Further nodding to the hotel's cultural roots, The Prince Kitano New York offers culinary destinations onsite that will undoubtedly add to the city's vibrant restaurant scene. On the lower floor sits hakubai, a refined restaurant celebrating the Japanese tradition of kaiseki. Brought to life by Executive Chef Jun Hiramatsu, this traditional dining experience transforms the finest seasonal meats, seafood and produce from local and Japanese purveyors into elegant courses through a variety of culinary techniques. The chef team, comprising of Chef Hiramatsu, head chef Keisuke Otsuka and pastry chefs Tadashi Netsu and Mariko Hosokawa, all hail from Japan and were tapped by Seibu Prince Hotels & Resorts for their expertise in traditional Japanese cuisine. The restaurant was designed by Modellus Novus, who reinforces the restaurant's culinary philosophy with an understated but sophisticated aesthetic featuring wooden and metal accents. The culinary journey continues at Hillside Cafe, The Prince Kitano New York's daytime dining destination. Open for breakfast and lunch, Hillside Cafe celebrates the convergence of cultures at the property and at New York City through a menu of fresh and comforting fare with American and Japanese influences. In the evening, Roof at 66 Park, the hotel's lively rooftop bar on the 18th floor, offers craft cocktails, fine wines and shareable gourmet bites against the backdrop of the cityscape. In addition to taking in the unbeatable panoramas of the city's towering skyscrapers from the bar's wraparound terraces, discerning epicureans can also visit the Roof at 66 Park for its prized selection of spirits, which often includes rare Japanese whiskeys acquired only through the property's well-established relationships with Japanese suppliers. Hotel website Round Hill Hotel and Villas proudly announces the appointment of Kiran Krishnan as the Director of Food & Beverage, a key addition to the resort's commitment to culinary excellence. Joining from the esteemed Jade Mountain & Anse Chastanet Resort in St. Lucia, Krishnan brings with him a sophisticated touch and a profound understanding of the nuances of Caribbean hospitality. Originally from India, Krishnan commenced his Caribbean odyssey in 2010 on Grand Cayman, progressing from guest services to the pinnacle of the culinary world at Blue by Eric Ripert in The Ritz Carlton, Grand Cayman, where he attained the esteemed title of Sommelier. Recognized for his exemplary leadership, there Krishnan ascended to the role of Food & Beverage Supervisor, before briefly returning to India for his involvement in the pre-opening phase of the distinguished Ritz-Carlton, Pune. Most recently, Krishnan served as the Executive Assi stant Manager, Food & Beverage at Jade Mountain & Anse Chastanet in Saint Lucia, showcasing a commitment to excellence and innovation in culinary arts. Best Western SeaWorld San Antonio Hotel Best Western Hotels and Resorts announces the opening of Best Western SeaWorld San Antonio, located at 1605 W Loop, 1604 S, San Antonio, Texas. The hotel is owned by Aman Patel and features 70 guestrooms and 12 suites. Best Western SeaWorld San Antonio recently underwent a $1.5 million renovation. The property features a new gray exterior with sandstone, white and black trim. The updated guestrooms and suites are furnished with a 55-inch flatscreen TV, mini-fridge and microwave. Guests will also have access to a number of on-property amenities, including a fitness center, outdoor pool, laundry facilities, business center and complimentary hot breakfast. "We cannot wait to welcome guests to our property so they can fully experience the new amenities and exciting upgrades," said Aman Patel, Owner and Managing Director of the Best Western SeaWorld San Antonio. "The property is not only an ideal location for travelers looking for a homebase when visiting SeaWorld in San Antonio, but also for everything else the city has to offer." While the Best Western SeaWorld San Antonio serves as the quintessential accommodation for travelers visiting San Antonio's SeaWorld location, it also provides easy access to fan-favorite San Antonio destinations, including the San Antonio Zoo, Alamo Plaza and the San Antonio River Walk. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. President of Bulgaria Rumen Radev has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on his confident victory in the presidential election, Trend reports. "Dear Mr. President, Please accept my sincere congratulations and good wishes on the occasion of your re-election as the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, which is proof of your success in the service of the state and people of Azerbaijan during the last years. I am convinced that under your leadership Azerbaijan will continue to prosper and comprehensively develop. I would also like to take this opportunity to express my satisfaction with the active and constructive bilateral dialogue, as well as my conviction that the strategic partnership and excellent relations between our two countries will continue to develop and deepen in the future. Wishing you good health and success in your highly responsible work for the development of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the prosperity of the friendly Azerbaijani people, please accept, dear Mr. President, the assurances of my highest consideration," the letter reads. Chicago, IL (60637) Today Some flurries this morning. Then cloudy skies through the afternoon. High around 40F. Winds NW at 10 to 20 mph.. Tonight Partly cloudy this evening, then becoming cloudy after midnight. Low 29F. Winds WSW at 10 to 20 mph. Hudson, NY (12534) Today Partly to mostly cloudy. 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. QUICK HITS: New Mountain completes BMI deal Horus adds music publishing Disco Donnie turns 30 Believe adds PLAYCODE Private equity investor New Mountain Capital has completed its acquisition of the formerly non-profit performance rights organization Broadcast Music Inc. Details of the deal were not disclosed, but as part of the deal, BMI will distribute $100 million from the sale to its affiliated songwriters and music publishers. Our partnership with New Mountain charts an incredibly exciting new course for BMI and our songwriters, composers, and publishers, said Mike ONeill, who will remain President & CEO of BMI. New Mountain shares our vision to build value for our affiliates and invest in their future success. With their support, advanced level of innovation, and resources, we are now in the best possible position to accelerate our growth plan and explore new opportunities to benefit our creative community. Independent digital music distributor Horus Music has officially launched Horus Music Publishing, a music publishing administrative service open to any songwriter or publishing rights holder. The expansion allows the 17-year-old company to enable users to handle their distribution and publishing needs right within their bespoke My Client Zone technology and to form direct partnerships with key PROs globally. James Disco Donnie Estopinal, the visionary founder of concert promoter Disco Productions, has announced major transformations as the company gears up to celebrate its 30th Anniversary, including a rebrand as Disco Events. My team is giving me the boot, says Estopinal. and we will change the name. Jokes on them, Im not going anywhere, but what we have built is bigger than just me now, and it deserves a name that exemplifies that. Were excited for a fresh start and heading into our biggest years ahead. Digital music conglomerate Believe has added PLAYCODE, a new imprint dedicated to championing the growing Japanese hip-hop music scene, including partnering with some of Japans leading acts: ellow Bucks, Red Eye, and Issei Uno Fifth. This launch marks a new step in Believes expansion in Japan, less than a year since it began operating in the country. Bruce Houghton Share on: Seiji Ozawa, Longtime BSO Conductor, Dies at 88 Seiji Ozawa conducting in 1983. The maestro died on Feb. 6 at age 88. LENOX, Mass. Longtime Boston Symphony Orchestra conductor Seiji Ozawa died Feb. 6 in Tokyo at the age of 88. Ozawa was the orchestra's longest serving conductor and held the title of music director for 29 years until stepping down in 2002. Seiji Ozawa Hall on the grounds of BSO's summer home Tanglewood was opened in his honor in 1994. One of his generation's most sought-after and celebrated conductors, Ozawa was born in Shenyang, China, in 1935 and from a young age studied piano and then conducting (under Hideo Saito) in Japan. He burst upon the musical scene in 1959, winning First Prize at the International Competition of Orchestra Conductors held in Besancon, France, and was invited the next summer to Tanglewood by then BSO Music Director Charles Munch, who was a judge at the competition. Later mentorships with Leonard Bernstein and Herbert von Karajan quickly propelled his career to directorships of the Toronto Symphony, San Francisco Symphony, Chicago Symphony's Ravinia summer festival, and finally the Boston Symphony where, in 1973, he became the orchestra's 13th music director, succeeding William Steinberg. Under Ozawa, the Boston Symphony entered a global era, through a renewed commitment to commissions and contemporary music, a prolific number of recordings, radio, and television appearances, and history-making tours. He championed many of the most important composers of the late 20th century, including Henri Dutillleux, Peter Lieberson, Olivier Messiaen, and Toru Takemitsu; a total of 44 compositions were commissioned under his tenure, three of which went on to win Pulitzer Prizes in Music. Award-winning recordings of more than 140 works were also among his output, featuring distinguished artists such as Yo-Yo Ma, Jessye Norman, Itzhak Perlman, and Peter Serkin. He won two Emmy Awards: in 1976, for PBS' "Evening at Symphony" and in 1994, for Individual Achievement in Cultural Programming for "Dvo?ak in Prague: A Celebration." Ozawa with Leonard Bernstein in 1980. Other major highlights of his BSO tenure included a groundbreaking 1979 tour to China; a global performance of Beethoven's "Ode to Joy" with six choirs performing on five continents for the opening of the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano, Japan; and a jubilant millennium extravaganza performance at the foot of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. After leaving the BSO, Ozawa was music director of the Vienna State Opera but maintained his connection to Tanglewood and its music center as a mentor for young musicians. He also was a founder of the Saito Kinen Orchestra in 1984 and several international projects and academies to train and cultivate young musicians. "I am greatly saddened to hear the news of Seiji's passing. Without question, Seiji Ozawa was one of the world's greatest conductors, and the Boston Symphony Orchestra was privileged to have had such a long and productive relationship with him as music director," said Andris Nelson, music director and head of conducting at Tanglewood. "I will always be grateful to Seiji for the kindness and warmth he showed me. I also recall so well and appreciate his enthusiasm for the city and people of Boston, Tanglewood and the Boston Red Sox! He was a musician with a big heart, and I will greatly miss his humanity and serene grace. My thoughts are with Seiji's family at this challenging time." Content provided by Berkshire Symphony Orchestra. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. President of the State of Palestine, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization Mahmoud Abbas has sent a congratulatory letter to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on the occasion of a confident victory in the extraordinary presidential election, Trend reports. "Dear Mr. President, I am pleased to extend my sincerest congratulations on your re-election as the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan for another term. I wish you continued success in fulfilling your high responsibilities, and in guiding your country and people towards their goals and dreams. Taking this opportunity, I would like to express my pride in our bilateral relations, my intention to continue working together to reinforce and develop them for the benefit of our countries and peoples and my gratitude for your stand on the just cause of Palestine. Please accept my best wishes for Your Excellency's robust health and happiness, and for the prosperity and well-being of your country and people," the letter reads. FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION IFTA AWARDS 2024 Lie of the Land Plagued by financial ruin, Kath and Matthew Ward realise their farming days are numbered. Enter Gabriel Shepherd, a charismatic stranger who offers to deliver the Wards a life abroad, escaping their debts - for a fee. But when a last minute change of heart strikes, the Wards find themselves in a deadly game of survival as they fight to save the home they were they so ready to abandon. Director: John Carlin Writer: Tara Hegarty Producers: Margaret McGoldrick, Chris Patterson Filmmaker Q&A Q: What was the genesis of this film, and how did it evolve over the course of development to production and completion? John Carlin (Director): "The film originated as a short radio play and was later developed by the writer into a feature length thriller. Over the course of development, the bones of the story remained largely intact, due to both the producers and I really believing in it right from the start. Personally, I see it as a love story of a broken couple who, when faced with a threat, realise that together they are stronger. So, this was very much the direction I wanted to take it in. Together we worked through a few ideas before I decided to blend the thriller elements with classic horror, based on my belief the situation our two lead characters find themselves in would be instantly recognisable and terrifying to the majority of audiences. Butmost of these elements were already somewhat contained in the very strong original script so in truth we didnt really need to defer too greatly from it during the development phase and through to completion, rather just enhance and embellish these." Tara Hegarty (Writer): "The film is based on my BBC Radio 4 Radio play, The Crossing Which is essentially the first act of the feature. Since the radio play was released these kinds of schemes and scams which prey on aging and vulnerable people have unfortunately become more and more pervasive and pernicious. I wanted to see more of the couples reaction, and I always felt they wouldnt go down without a fight, and its clear from the completed film, that they certainly had plenty of fight left in them. " Q: What do you hope audiences will take away from the film? John: "Primarily, what I hope audiences take from Lie of the Land, is that they were fully entertained from start to finish. Keeping the audiences attention is always the main aim, so I endeavoured to tell a solid story in a way that doesnt linger or waste time. Feeding small bits of plot as we go, with a few shocks, surprises.and even laughs along the way! I hope that audiences like and appreciate this and that, quite simply, they enjoyed the journey from beginning to end." Tara: "The film is a new twist on the Home Invasion genre exploring themes of love and duty, aging, and community. Many of the audience members, especially the older viewers will understand exactly what its like to be the target of a scam and I hope that there is a certain amount of wish fulfilment for them as this feisty aging couple go head-to-head with this dangerous stranger. " Barry John Kinsella (Actor): "I hope audiences enjoy the thrilling ride the film takes you on and that they relish seeing two more mature characters kick ass. It's not all about the young ones..." Ali White (Actor): "I hope the characters and story totally hook them. I hope theyll be drawn in by the tensions between Kath and Matthew, seduced by the charms of Gabriel and then thrilled and horrified as the events of the night unfold. (I hope theyll laugh too.) I hope as well that theyll get a sense of the real world of the film the isolation, and vulnerability of farmers like the Wards, and how characters like Shepherd can manipulate and prey on them. Chris Patterson (Producer): "This film proves it's never too late to stand up for yourself. Rarely do mature characters take centre stage as action heroes. Never underestimate the power of love." Abe Smyth (Actor): "I think there's a lot going on with this film thanks to Tara Hegarty's fantastic script but the main thing I hope is people have fun with the film. Even though there are some serious themes being discussed it's still a thrill ride. Q: Whats the most interesting/inspiring piece of feedback youve received from people who have seen the film? Barry: "At Galway, the audience started cheering when my character reached the culmination of his arc. Playing the antagonist of the film, this was the best feedback I've ever gotten! With the whole film itself, it's seeing and hearing members of the farming community and older audiences connect to the fears of isolation and ruin, but then receiving the cathartic release towards the end of the journey. People giving me such a wide berth after the film ended is also strange, but it amplifies how visceral the film is and how involved the audience can get." Tara: "The film connected with a range of people, especially those who are from a rural background or those who have experienced this kind of isolation. A lot of women connected with. Kath, played so elegantly by Ali White, and they were happy to see a mature female lead who was more than capable of standing up for herself." Q: Why is it important to see your work represented at the IFTAs and to be acknowledged by your peers in the Irish film community? Barry: "Our industry can feel isolating at times, particularly as an actor. The IFTA's bring everyone together to celebrate the enviable width and depth of Irish screen work; the IFTA's help us all enjoy the ride, because there is no rehearsal!" Ali: "We shot our low budget film in just 18 days last February, in a freezing muddy farm outside Ballymena. It seemed a very long way from the IFTAs! But Tara Hegartys script was superb, John Carlin the director was inspirational, and the actors I was lucky enough to work with - Nigel ONeill, Barry John Kinsella, Abe Smith and Paddy Jenkins - were all superb. Everyone involved gave their absolute all. Im very proud that thanks to the IFTAs, our film will have the chance to be considered by the finest filmmakers and actors in Ireland people who themselves have inspired me for years." John: "To have Lie of the Land nominated in a category of the IFTAs would be a huge privilege and achievement. I started this journey 25 years ago and its taken a lot of time, effort, sacrifice and hard work to get where I am today, and to, I feel, have earned the opportunity to be allowed to tell this story. To have my peers appreciate and acknowledge the film would be the ultimate honour and prove to myself and others that all the extremely hard work is recognised and therefore worth it." Chris: "As a founding member of IFTA, it has been a longstanding goal to see a Causeway-produced project nominated. To be acknowledged by my peers in the Irish film community would be invaluable. It would be a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved and be incredibly inspiring and humbling to receive this kind of recognition for our work." Q: Can you speak to the growth in the Irish film industry in recent years and how it helped your film get off the ground? Friday 9 February 2024, 18:10 - Last updated: 10 February, 08:20 White lilies and red roses to remember the coat of arms of the House of Savoy, green to compose the colors of Italy. Roses are flowers linked to Queen Elena, who was the Rose Queen of Charity. The floral arrangement of the Turin cathedral for the funeral of Vittorio Emanuele, son of the last king of Italy, which will begin tomorrow at 3 pm, will be sober. Many have asked to participate, royal houses and ordinary citizens, and two maxi screens will be set up in the square to allow as many people as possible to attend the homily. The list of Royal Houses that will be present tomorrow in the Turin cathedral for the funeral of Vittorio Emanuele di Savoia has been made known. Among the heads of state, there will be Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg and Prince Albert of Monaco. The coffin of Vittorio Emanuele di Savoia at the Venaria Reale Palace Funeral of Vittorio Emanuele, the Royal Houses "invited" Representing Spain will be the emeritus queen Sofia, then princes Astrid and Lorenz for Belgium and Archduke Martino of Habsburg, Prince Leka of Albania, Carlo and Camilla of Bourbon of the Two Sicilies, Grand Duke George of Russia, Prince Jean Christophe Bonaparte, descendant of Napoleon, the princes of Orleans counts of Paris, the princes of Bourbon Parma - Netherlands, the princes of Serbia, the royal prince of Saudi Arabia, the prince of Portugal. No member in the list of the British Royal Family, namely the House of Windsor (which sent a message of condolence the day after death). House of Savoy For the House of Savoy, in addition to the closest relatives, Princess Maria Pia, Vittorio Emanuele's older sister accompanied by her children, princes of Yugoslavia. And again Prince Aimone and Princess Olga of Savoy Aosta. However, Vittorio Emanuele's two younger sisters, Maria Gabriella and Maria Beatrice, will not be there, blocked for health reasons. The lying in state Today was the day of the lying in state at the chapel of Sant'Uberto at the Venaria Palace. Covered by a composition of white, blue and red roses to form the symbol of the house, the coffin was accompanied by the son Emanuele Filiberto, who stopped for a moment next to it, placing a hand on it. "All this rain... even Turin today cries", he murmured meeting the journalists. "He was a father, a friend, a teacher - he added - Turin is the city he loved and in which he wanted to rest and I believe it is paying him a beautiful tribute. Despite this sad moment the last three weeks with him have been very beautiful: he was serene and we talked about many things. He fell asleep and never woke up. The thing that gives relief is the fact that he did not suffer". To welcome the coffin was Monsignor Gian Franco Troya, honorary royal chaplain of Umbertine appointment, appointed by King Umberto II, for fifty years rector of the royal sanctuary Madonna delle Grazie of Racconigi. Memories "My duty is to be at the service of the Savoys - he says -. What we celebrate today is the liturgy of acceptance. I am the last royal chaplain of Umbertine appointment, I was present at all the ceremonies of the family and today I am here to welcome the deceased". Also present was the royal honor guard with the banners with the medal of the National Institute for the Honor Guard at the royal tombs of the Pantheon. The president of the Senate, Ignazio La Russa, also went to the lying in state: "There are lights and shadows - he said leaving the Palace - but I do not forget that the Savoy dynasty was the architect of the unity of Italy". Large glasses and hair pulled back, Princess Marina Doria was greeted at the entrance by the honor salute of the Pantheon Guards and took her place to the left of the coffin, next to her son Emanuele Filiberto, her daughter-in-law Clotilde Courau and her granddaughters Vittoria and Luisa. Shortly after her arrival, the chancellor of the Dynastic Orders of the House of Savoy, Johannes Niederhauser, placed on a pillow near the coffin the Golden Collar of the Annunciation, symbol of the highest dynastic Order of the house. Two of Vittorio Emanuele's sisters, Maria Gabriella and Maria Beatrice, were not present because they were blocked respectively in Switzerland and Mexico for health reasons. Present was the older sister Maria Pia, with her son Serge of Yugoslavia. Among the bunches and wreaths of flowers present, that all white of the king and queen of Belgium, of the Spanish and Scandinavian delegations of the Dynastic Orders of the Royal House of Savoy. Among those present, the former MEP Mario Borghezio, who remembered Vittorio Emanuele as "an intelligent, prepared, cultured and above all very honest person". Abbas Ganbay According to Armenian media, the Armenian Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure noted that Baku and Yerevan have not yet touched upon this topic in their discussions, Azernews reports. The ministry said that the gas transportation systems of Armenia and Azerbaijan were connected through the following main gas pipelines: Kazakh-Yerevan, 1000 mm in diameter, 6 km to be restored; Ilyichevsk-Yerevan, 700 mm diameter, 22 km to be restored; Goris-Nakhchivan, 700 mm diameter, 16.5 km are subject to rehabilitation. As early as last fall, Deputy Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure Hakob Vardanyan spoke about Armenia's readiness to restore gas pipelines from Azerbaijan if political issues are resolved. The restoration of gas pipelines between Armenia and Azerbaijan can be considered in the context of opening communications in the South Caucasus. And Azerbaijan, unlike Armenia, in every possible way contributes to the realisation of this clause of the trilateral statement signed in 2020. In particular, the Azerbaijani side is actively working to restore the Zangazur corridor. The Armenian side, on the other hand, is avoiding concrete steps in this direction, arguing this behaviour with groundless "fears". In this case, the question arises: is it worth discussing the restoration of gas pipelines now if the Armenian side wants to leave everything only on paper? BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. The failure of the international community to prevent Armenia's war crimes serves no other purpose than to fuel a sense of impunity in that country, Azerbaijani Ambassador to the Netherlands Rahman Mustafayev wrote on his social network X, Trend reports. Mustafayev emphasized that the coincidence of Armenia's joining the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court with the detection of a new mass grave in Khojaly, where Armenian military formations killed more than 600 Azerbaijani civilians, is highly symbolic. Stay up to date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} An Indian politician has been shot dead in Mumbai during a Facebook Live stream where he was seen meeting with an old political rival. The incident took place in Mumbais Dahisar district on Thursday, where police say local businessman Mauris Noronha tricked former Shiv Sena politician Abhishek Ghosalkar into meeting with him before shooting him dead. Noronha was also found dead shortly after and appeared to have shot himself, reported The Indian Express. In a graphic video being shared online in India, Ghosalkar and Noronha address the camera saying that they had decided to move past their prior political rivalry and settle their differences. The pair can be seen together in the same frame talking comfortably, saying they are now on good terms. Today we have decided to come together and unite. We have decided to distribute sari and ration together, Noronha is heard saying in the video shot in his office. It is a good decision to work together for the betterment of the public. We are distributing sarees to 300 working and needy women. We will work together and serve the people of Kandarpada [Mumbai locality], Ghosalkar said in the video. He added: We have taken this resolution on this new year, which is a new beginning of our friendship and collaboration. Not long into the four minute, 26-second video, however, Noronha is seen getting up and leaving the room as the Facebook Live session appears to be coming to an end. The sounds of five gunshots are then heard as Ghosalkar is still visible in the frame. Police officials said both Ghosalkar and Noronha had succumbed to their injuries at the scene and their bodies had been taken to different hospitals for autopsy. Mumbai police officials have said they are in the process of filing a murder case in connection with the killing, while an accidental death report will be filed in Noronha case. Ghosalkar belonged to the Shiv Sena party, which is currently the main opposition party in Maharashtra state, and previously worked as an official in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), Indias richest local authority. Another local official from the party said that the duo had disagreed in the past. Abhishek and Mauris had a past dispute but recently their dispute was settled, Vilas Potnis told The Indian Express. Mauris had called Abhishek at a saree distribution function at his office (in IC Colony area) and during the event he took him inside his cabin and shot him over some dispute. He added that Noronha fired bullets using his revolver and then later also shot himself. Opposition figures said the disturbing video raised questions over the law and order situation in a key state ruled by Narendra Modis Bharatiya Janata Party. Maharashtra has seen lawlessness like never before, he said. It is shocking beyond words to see the law and order situation fail, as it has today. Does the system exist at all to protect the common man? Does the fear of the law exist? asked Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA and former education minister Aaditya Thackeray. The shooting comes less than a week after a BJP MLA was accused of shooting another Shiv Sena politician from a different faction in Thane. The victim survived the attack and is now recovering. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} At least four people were killed and over 200 sustained injuries in violence that erupted over the demolition of a mosque in India's northern state of Uttarakhand. The picturesque Himalayan state has been on the edge following incidents of targeted violence against the minority Muslim community and the recent passage of a contentious bill to establish a unified law governing marriages, divorce and other civil rights for all religions. Internet services were shut down as state authorities on Thursday imposed a curfew, shut schools and issued "shoot-on-sight" orders in Haldwani city. The violence ensued when a team of government officials and police personnel attempted to raze an "illegally built" mosque and an adjacent religious school, citing a court order. Locals reportedly pelted stones at the officials and took to the streets in protest, which prompted the police to open fire at the demonstrators. The police also retaliated by firing tear gas. Despite the large display of opposition, the mosque was demolished later on Thursday. The Uttarakhand High Court on Thursday refused to issue an immediate order halting the demolition and instead scheduled the matter for a further hearing next week. Shakeel Ahmad, a local councillor for the area, told The Indian Express that the court had not given a final order and the authorities acted in haste. "The next date of hearing was 14 February and when the administration came, we requested them to stop until then," he said. Vehicles, including 20 motorbikes, parked outside a police station were set ablaze during the protests, according to Abhinav Kumar, director general of police in Uttarakhand. "The exact sequence of events that led to this kind of situation is a matter of administrative inquiry. We will check what was the cause for this kind of public anger, and if there is some conspiracy, we will look into it," he told the newspaper. Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said additional forces have been dispatched to the region and warned "anti-social elements" of strict action. "Police have been given clear instructions to deal strictly with unruly elements. Every rioter who indulged in arson and stone pelting is being identified, no miscreant who disturbs harmony and peace will be spared," the chief minister from Narendra Modis ruling Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) said in Hindi in a post on X. The incident comes just a day after the state assembly passed the contentious Uniform Civil Code bill to establish a unified personal law for all citizens, irrespective of their religion. The bill largely opposed by minorities in India has long been a policy goal of prime minister Narendra Modi, who wants to bring the entire country under a single code of law. The code means that there will be a single set of laws for all residents of the state irrespective of religion, sex, gender and sexual orientation on matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance and adoption. It will override the different laws and customs that are followed by Hindus, Muslims, Christians and other minority groups currently on various personal matters. Minority and Tribal groups say that the bill, which would supercede various existing personal laws based on religious lines, undermines their diverse customs and violates the right to freedom of religion enshrined in the Indian constitution. Critics argue the bill is intended to bring practices closer in line with those of the Hindu majority. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Barclays has promised to stop directly financing energy clients new oil and gas projects as part of updates to its climate change strategy. The bank on Friday published a revised version of its Climate Change Statement and released a Transition Finance Framework as it pledged to focus capital on supporting energy companies to decarbonise. Barclays said it will provide no project finance or other direct finance to energy firms for upstream oil and gas expansion projects or related infrastructure. We continue to work with our energy clients as they decarbonise and support their efforts to transition in a manner that is just, orderly and addresses energy security Laura Barlow, Barclays This does not include corporate level financing, which makes up most of the banks financing to energy clients, who can then chose to use it to fund new projects themselves. Barclays also said it will introduce restrictions on financing for new and non-diversified oil and gas clients engaged in expansion, which tend to be smaller companies rather than oil majors. Its energy clients will be expected to produce transition plans or decarbonisation strategies by January 2025, the bank added. Other changes include requiring energy clients to have 2030 methane reduction targets, plans to end all routine or non-essential venting and flaring by 2030, and near-term net zero targets for operational emissions aligned with the Paris Agreement by January 2026. Meanwhile, Barclays said its new Transition Finance Framework aims to help it meet its $1 trillion sustainable and transition finance target by 2030. The bank argued that investment is needed to support existing assets while clean energy is scaled, adding that it will continue to support an energy sector in transition. Barclays intention to request decarbonisation plans from its oil and gas clients is the right one. But for it to have teeth, the bank must demand clients stop engaging in activities that increase the climate crisis such as oil and gas exploration Kelly Shields, ShareAction The move follows engagement with investors, shareholders, clients, climate experts and civil society groups, including ShareAction, which campaigns for responsible investment, it said. ShareAction and other campaign groups welcomed the banks decision to set some basic climate tests for oil and gas clients. However, the groups said the changes do not go far enough to make significant impact on its fossil fuel financing. Kelly Shields, campaign manager at ShareAction, said they welcomed some positive commitments from Barclays but that the strategy could have gone so much further. Barclays intention to request decarbonisation plans from its oil and gas clients is the right one. But for it to have teeth, the bank must demand clients stop engaging in activities that increase the climate crisis such as oil and gas exploration, she said. Barclays is wrong not to have ruled out financing companies that focus exclusively on fossil fuel extraction. This should include fracking, which is causing so much environmental and social harm and is an activity the bank is heavily exposed to. Barclays is strongly positioned with our capabilities and experience, global reach and role in the global economy to accelerate the investment needed for real-world decarbonisation, while supporting our energy clients transition Daniel Hanna, Barclays We should expect the banks shareholders to hold them to account on this policy and make significant efforts to close the loopholes in this strategy. Meanwhile, Zahra Hdidou, senior advisor at ActionAid UK, which supports the poorest women and girls in the world, called the new policies an improvement but only a minor policy tweak. While there are now some limitations on specific projects, their policy would still channel financing to fossil fuel corporations and drive devastating fossil expansion, she said. By itself, this policy hardly makes a dent in the harm suffered by the women, girls and frontline communities in the Global South who bear the disproportionate effects of pollution, land grabs and climate disasters. Laura Barlow, Barclays group head of sustainability, said: Addressing climate change is a critical and complex challenge. We continue to work with our energy clients as they decarbonise and support their efforts to transition in a manner that is just, orderly and addresses energy security. Daniel Hanna, head of sustainable finance at Barclays Corporate and Investment Bank, said: Capital is critical to the energy transition, to decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors for the world to reach net zero emissions and create a resilient economy. As the number two ranked clean energy advisor globally by BloombergNEF, Barclays is strongly positioned with our capabilities and experience, global reach and role in the global economy to accelerate the investment needed for real-world decarbonisation, while supporting our energy clients transition. Barclays, which has frequently come under fire for its fossil fuels financing, made the announcement on the same day it revealed its acquisition of Tescos retail banking business. Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Lifestyle Edit email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Barbara Palvin has issued a correction to photographers after they addressed her by her maiden name. The Hungarian model, 30, was recently joined by husband Dylan Sprouse at the Lisa Frankenstein premiere in Los Angeles on 5 February. While posing for photos on the red carpet, photographers addressed the Victorias Secret angel as Ms Palvin before she jokingly corrected them. In a video posted to TikTok by E! News, a photographer could be heard saying: Ms Palvin, one more time. As she looked toward the camera, Palvin held up her finger and pointed: Its Mrs Sprouse. The model then subtly smiled, while her husband shouted off-camera: You tell em, baby! In the comments section, many fans praised the couple, who were married in July 2023. I love Dylan and Barbaras relationship, one person wrote. its actually really heartwarming to see someone be so proud of their marriage, another user said, while someone else commented: I love those two together. Wholesome couple. Sprouse and Palvin tied the knot last summer after five years of dating. Speaking to E! News at the premiere for Lisa Frankenstein, which stars the actors twin brother Cole Sprouse, Dylan revealed the unexpected best part of being married. I really like the mornings, in general, the Disney Channel alum said. Mornings are really great, just because there is, like, a very calm and collected satisfaction of waking up next to your wife - which is a cool thing to say, by the way, like, my wife, and also in a Borat voice, its fun too. But when you roll over and you see your beautiful wife and shes asleep and then you see your dog and youre in your house and the things that you like, created, its very calming and its very nice and it makes you want to work harder, he added. Cole and Dylan Sprouse premiere of Lisa Frankenstein with partners Ari Fournier and Barbara Palvin (Getty Images) The Suite Life of Zack and Cody star admitted that he feels very happy to have someone to work for like his wife. While Dylan revealed that he and Barbara have no cons in their marriage, he shared that his wife does get annoyed by one of his habits. Watching episodes of something that we should be watching together, thats a big no-no, he said. I learned that the hard way. Dont do that. Sprouse and Palvin secretly tied the knot just one month after publicly announcing their engagement. The couple were wed in Palvins home country on her parents property, Harlekin Birtok. The bride wore a white Vivienne Westwood corset-style satin gown with sheer gloves, a Tiffany & Co Nineties-inspired choker, and a long veil. Meanwhile, the groom wore a simple black suit with a white collared shirt and a black tie. He also had two white flowers fastened onto his lapel that matched the flowers in Palvins bouquet. Sprouses brother Cole, who also starred in Suite Life of Zack and Cody, served as best man and the couple exchanged vows in the church in Albertirsa, where Palvins parents tied the knot more than 30 years ago. Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Lifestyle Edit email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Chinese New Year is upon us, with celebrations starting on Saturday, February 10 to welcome in the year of the dragon. The two-week festival marks the beginning of a new Lunar year and a new animal in the Chinese zodiac to represent the next 12 months. Billions of people in China and around the world will celebrate, often wearing red clothes, decorating their homes with red lanterns and taking part in traditional dragon dances. Chinese astrologist and Feng Shui consultant Janine Lowe says this will be a year of change and while that might mean a rollercoaster 12 months, the change can also bring new opportunities. What does this mean for people born in the dragon year? If youre born in the year of the dragon, which is 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000 and 2012, youre in luck this year is looking like a good year for you. Lowe says that often when people are born in the same year as the current animal, it can sometimes be conflictual, but this year the dragons have this amazing power to be entrepreneurial and creative. They may become a sage for their friends, and Lowe adds that theres also a good chance for them to gain wealth or see their wealth expand this year. But, she warns: As long as they focus now on exactly what they want out of the year, theres no point in dilly-dallying around it, they need to know what they want out of the year. And while its not marked as a year of love for the dragon, there may be a chance for people born in the year of the dragon to spark a new romance come September. So what about people not born in the year of the dragon? Those born under the other zodiac animals also have a big year ahead of them. For people born in the year of the dog (1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018) it is likely to be a big and conflicting year. Lowe says: Everything is about change, literally in every part of their lives. Its a huge change. But dont be too worried she says that amongst the upheaval, positive changes are on the horizon for dog people too. Other zodiac animals will have an easier time rats will experience growth and energy and will have the opportunity to grow in their careers, while tigers will be able to indulge in their love of adventures. There will be new love interests for snakes this year, and there is a lot of good health, happiness and new connections around for monkeys. Rabbits like an easy, steady-paced life, so this year they will need to learn to adapt to change, and oxen folk will also face challenges and will need to reach out to the people around them, instead of relying on themselves. Goats will be faced with decisions this year, while horses should take up new opportunities that come their way. Lowe adds: Roosters are the secret friend of the dragon and, because its going to be a bit of a rollercoaster year for everybody, my advice is to hang onto the dragons tails and go with the year. She says it will be a very busy year for pigs, because they will end up being the supporters of the year both at home and at work. Will it be a good year for everyone? Generally, 2024 is about revolution and change. While that can daunting, it can also spark creativity and innovation. Lowe advises that creativity and original ideas will help this be the year its meant to be. The dragon, who Lowe explains comes with a lot of power and magic, will help you focus on getting what you truly want. She says: The dragon has a lot of really positive stuff behind it, because it is the top Chinese animal. But its not something where you sit at home and do your knitting, and watch Netflix you need to get out of your chair and go make what you need or what you want to happen. And theres every opportunity for that to happen this year. Sign up to IndyEat's free newsletter for weekly recipes, foodie features and cookbook releases Get our food and drink newsletter for free Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the IndyEats email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Coca-Cola has added its name to the latest brands trying to get in on the trend for spicy snacks and beverages. From Flamin Hot Cheetos to Sweet Heat Starburst, snacks are getting spicier. Now, the fizzy drinks giants have stepped in. On Wednesday, the Atlanta beverage giant introduced Coca-Cola Spiced, the first new permanent offering to its North American portfolio in three years. Coke is getting spicier (Getty Images) Coca-Cola Spiced and Coca-Cola Spiced Zero Sugar will go on sale in the US and Canada on February 19. Coke has been exploring ways to get younger drinkers excited about its signature cola. In 2022, it launched Coca-Cola Creations, a series of eight limited-edition Coke flavors in colorful cans and bottles. Coke experimented with adding hints of coconut, strawberry, watermelon and other flavors to the drinks. The latest example, Coca-Cola Happy Tears, contains salt and mineral flavors. It will be sold only through TikTok on February 17 in the US and UK. What does Coca-Cola Spiced taste like? Coca-Cola Spiced doesnt have a lot of heat. The main flavor drinkers will notice is a hint of raspberry. Coke wont name the spices it added it guards its recipes closely but they taste like amped-up versions of the spices in regular Coke. If you go to the aisles, youll see the amount of spiciness has gone up because consumers taste palettes have evolved. We realized that could be an opportunity for us, Coca-Colas North American marketing chief Shakir Moin told The Associated Press in a recent interview. Can we dial up something which is already part of our formula and bring in a taste profile that is interesting, unique, and brings in the next generation of consumers? Selman Careaga, president of Coca-Colas Global Category, reaches for Coca-Cola Spiced (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) Moin said customer research for Coca-Cola Creations fed into the development of Coca-Cola Spiced. It usually takes Coca-Cola at least a year to develop a new beverage, he said, but Coca-Cola Spiced took just seven weeks. Moin said the company hopes to replicate that speed with future new products. Coca-Colas New Flavor (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) Consumers are moving faster. The market is moving forward faster. Weve got to be faster than the speed of the market, he said. The new flavour joins a list of experiments by the company that have included Coca-Cola ginger, cinnamon, mango, apple and raspberry. Sign up to IndyEat's free newsletter for weekly recipes, foodie features and cookbook releases Get our food and drink newsletter for free Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the IndyEats email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} As Valentines Day is only a few days away, many restaurants are offering some special deals on food to celebrate. Although the romantic day doesnt fall until 14 February, a few beloved fast food chains will also be having both before and after the holiday. However, not all the deals are entirely related to the theme of love, as PF Changs is offering free dumplings to those whove been dumped. Some of the restaurants specials vary from a unique dining experience to five-course dinners to a simply buy one, get one free deal. From Shake Shack to Chipotle, heres the range of restaurants that are doing something extra special for Valentines Day this year. P F Changs P F Changs is giving away free dumplings to anyone who recently got dumped by their now ex. As noted by the restaurant chain, customers will receive an order of six pork or shrimp dumplings after they share the story of their breakup, or a screenshot of the breakup text they received. The deal will last until 21 February, which is National Breakup Day. The deal can either be redeemed online or in stores, as customers are also required to make a minimum of a $1 purchase. Melting Pot The beloved spot for fondue is offering a five-course meal special on Valentines Day. For the Melting Pots Ultimate 5-Course Experience, customers will receive a cheese fondue along with an appetiser, salad, and entree. For dessert, they will also be offered the brands signature Chocolate Explosion Fondue. The price for the five-course experience varies, based on the location of the Melting Pot youre going to. Shake Shack On 14 February, Shake Shack is doing a special Love Shack dining experience at select locations. The burger chain will have two dinner options, with one being a Swicy Date Night that features an $80 prix fixe Swicy tasting menu for two. The Swicy Date Night menu includes a reserved table, where each customer will receive a Korean Style Fried Chicken sandwich, along with Spicy Korean BBQ Fries and a beverage of choice. You and your date will also receive a Gochujang Caramel Sauce Sundae to share. For the Umani Dinner party, there is a $160 prix fixe tasting menu for four people. While at their reserved table, each guest will receive a Korean BBQ Burger, Spicy Korean BBQ Fries, and individual Gochujang Caramel Sauce Sundaes. They will also be offered their beverages of choice. This isnt the only deal that Shake Shack is offering. Customers who order a Korean BBQ Burger or Korean Style Fried Chicken Sandwich for take-out will then get a second one free. The deal, which first started on 7 February, is available when people order for delivery or use the Shake Shack app. Panera Starting on 14 February, Panera will be launching The Double Bread Bowl, perfect for a soup date for two. Guests can select any combinations of two different soups, with the bread bowl starting at $9.99 depending on store locations. However, this is a limited-time offer, as The Double Bread Bowl will only be served until 28 February. Applebees As part of its latest promotion for Valentines Day, Applebees is offering some alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks at discounted prices. For example, the chain is serving a $4 Mai Tai Mocktail, which is made with passion fruit, pineapple, and lime. The restaurant is also selling a $5 Tipsy Cupid, which is made with Titos Handmade Vodka, triple sec, strawberry, premium lemon sour, and lemonade. The third drink on the list of Valentines Day-themed beverages is a Blue Moon Belgian White, which only costs $6. Chilis Throughout the entire month, Chilis is serving a $6 StrawEddy Margarita, in honour of turning up the love this February. The strawberry margarita is made with tequila, lemon vodka, strawberry puree, and fresh sour. Qdoba On 14 February, members of Qdobas rewards club can snag a free entree and a drink. The deal is redeemable both online and in stores. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A man in Atlanta was arrested Thursday on charges that he torched eight police motorcycles last summer, one of about two dozen acts of arson that officials have linked to protests against a planned police and firefighter training facility that opponents have dubbed Cop City. John Robert Mazurek, 30, was charged with first-degree arson in connection with the early July 1 attack in the parking deck of a southeast Atlanta police precinct, Police Chief Darin Schierbaum announced during a news conference. No one was injured, but Schierbaum said a police officer was inside the precinct at the time and could have been killed if the arsonists' flames had spread to the building. Mazurek was arrested Thursday morning while authorities served search warrants at three local homes that investigators believe might contain evidence in connection with the attacks, officials said. It is unclear whether he has an attorney who could comment on the charge Fulton County's online court records are currently unavailable as a result of a recent hack. The police chief pledged that more arrests will come and reiterated that a $200,000 reward still stands for information that can help authorities identify those who have committed the various attacks against police vehicles and construction equipment. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said the attacks have been carried out by extremists who have no interest in safety or public order. They want chaos, Dickens said. Dickens and others say the planned $109 million training center would replace inadequate training facilities and help address difficulties in hiring and retaining police officers that worsened after 2020's nationwide protests against police brutality and racial injustice. Opponents worry the facility will lead to greater militarization of the police and that its construction will exacerbate environmental damage in a poor, majority-Black area. They are hoping to force a referendum on building the project, though that is currently mired in a legal battle. Sixty-one people were indicted in September on racketeering charges in connection with the movement. "You can chant all day long, If you build it, we will burn it," Schierbaum said, referring to a popular refrain among Stop Cop City activists. But if you set police cars on fire, we're going to find you, and we're going to arrest you. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A New Hampshire man brutally beat his 5-year-old daughter to death and spent months moving her body around before disposing of it like yesterday's trash, a prosecutor said Thursday. But the man's lawyer said he didn't harm the child and the last person who saw her alive the man's estranged wife won't say what happened. Adam Montgomery, 34, pleaded not guilty in 2022 to charges of second-degree murder, abuse of a corpse, falsifying physical evidence, assault and witness tampering regarding his daughter, Harmony Montgomery. Police first learned she was missing in December 2021 and that she was last seen in 2019. Police later said Harmony, whose body has not been found, had been killed on Dec. 7, 2019, based on interviews with the wife. At the time she was declared missing, there were photos of her widely circulated on social media. Adam Montgomery declined to attend the opening statements of his trial Thursday. The day before, he told a judge via a teleconference from jail that his attorneys were acknowledging guilt on the charges of falsifying physical evidence and abusing a corpse. Last year, he said in court in an unrelated case that he didn't kill his daughter. Harmony was born in 2014 in Massachusetts to parents who were no longer together. She lived on and off with foster parents and her mother. I'm a recovering drug addict, her mother, Crystal Sorey, testified Thursday. I was struggling at the time. She said Harmony was born blind in one eye, but she thrived, describing her as amazing, rambunctious, very smart. Adam eventually got custody of Harmony in February 2019. Sorey said she last saw Harmony online in April 2019, saying Adam didn't respond to requests for a visit afterward. She contacted police in 2021. Adam and Harmony Montgomery lived in a house in Manchester, New Hampshire, with his wife, Kayla, and their two younger children. Adam's uncle, Kevin Montgomery, also lived there. Kevin Montgomery testified that after returning from a trip to see family in July 2019, he saw Harmony with a black eye. He said Adam told him he had bashed her around the house after seeing her with her hands over the mouth of one of his sons. Kevin Montgomery testified he moved out and contacted numerous family members, Sorey and the state Division for Children, Youth and Families to get help for Harmony. A child protective services worker visited the home that July after getting an anonymous report but only saw a fleeting glimpse of Harmony getting into a car with her father. Demetrios Tsaros testified that during a longer visit in August, he noticed a small red mark under one of Harmony's eyes and some discoloration. Tsaros said Adam told him his children were playing with foam swords and Harmony was struck in the eye. Tsaros called Adam in January 2020 and was told that Harmony was living with Sorey. Tsaros said he left a message on Sorey's cellphone. Ten days before Harmony died, the family was evicted from the home and lived in their car, prosecutor Christopher Knowles said. He said Harmony was a different child by then thin, bruised, and having frequent bathroom accidents. Each time Harmony had an accident, her father would strike her, citing information Kayla provided to police, the prosecutor said. On the day Harmony died, Knowles said Adam Montgomery punched her multiple times in the car after she had two accidents. Following the second incident, he drove to a fast-food restaurant, ordered food, and then did drugs as Harmony could be heard moaning in the back of the car. A bit later that day, the car broke down, and that's when Adam and Kayla Montgomery discovered she had died, Knowles said. Adam put her body in a duffel bag that went into the trunk, Knowles said. For the next few months, he moved the body into a cooler in the hallway of his mother-in-law's apartment building, the ceiling vent of a homeless shelter and into a freezer, Knowles said. Her remains, which were compressed, were eventually moved to a tote bag. Adam took steps to break down and dispose of Harmony's remains, Knowles said, buying a saw, blades and lime. He rented a moving truck in March 2020, with toll data showing the truck in question crossed the Tobin Bridge in Boston multiple times. He believed that if there was no body, there could be no evidence of the horrible things that he did to her, and he would get away with it," Knowles said. During this time, Adam suspected that Kayla was cooperating with police and he started to beat her, Knowles said. Kayla, who is serving an 18-month prison sentence after pleading guilty to perjury charges, is expected to testify against Adam. She told police that she became afraid of Adam and was unable to stop him when he hit Harmony in the car, Knowles said. But Kayla has been lying to protect herself, Adam's attorney, James Brooks, said. During his opening statement, he said that a note found in her jail cell showed her willingness to betray Adam for a bargain with prosecutors and that she longed to kiss and be intimate with him one more time. She had a whole wish list, a set of demands, Brooks said. She wanted immunity from everything," he said, quoting from her note. Brooks pointed out inconsistencies in her account of what happened. He also said that Harmony had died the night before Kayla said she did and was already in a duffel bag in the trunk of their car. The trial is expected to last through the rest of the month. Adam Montgomery, who was sentenced last year to a minimum of 32 1/2 years in prison on gun charges, could face up to life in prison on the second-degree murder charge if convicted. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry on Thursday officially called for a highly anticipated crime-focused special legislative session that could overhaul the state's current criminal justice system, reversing hard-fought and historic reforms that happened under Landry's Democratic predecessor. Among the two dozen tough-on-crime-related items on Landry's broad agenda are expanding methods to carry out death row executions, restricting parole eligibility, harsher penalties for carjackings, immunity from liability for law enforcement based upon a certain criteria and publicizing some juvenile court records. We will defend and uplift our law enforcement officials and deliver true justice to crime victims who have been overlooked for far too long. I am eager to enact real change that makes Louisiana a safer state for all," Landry said in a statement. The special session is scheduled to begin Feb. 19 and must conclude by the evening of March 6. The Republican Landry has long vowed to crack down on crime in Louisiana a state that in recent years has had one of the highest homicide rates in the country. The issue became a pivotal part of his gubernatorial platform, with him often pointing at New Orleans, which has been in the national spotlight for violent crime and will be the site of the 2025 Super Bowl. However, up until this point, Landry had evaded discussing specifics about crime-related policies multiple times equating it to a battle plan" that he wanted to withhold from criminals. The release of the special session call, which was published on the Louisiana House of Representatives' website Thursday afternoon, is the first and most detailed look at Landry's plan of action to tackle crime in the state. Some of the items on Landry's proposed agenda could reverse a package of criminal justice reform bills passed in 2017 which expanded probation and parole opportunities and reduced sentences, mainly for nonviolent offenders. In addition, most of the savings from the prison population reduction instead paid for programs aimed at keeping exiting inmates from returning to crime. Since the changes were enacted, Louisiana relinquished its title as the nations tops jailer, dropping to the state with the second-highest incarceration rate per capita. The criminal justice redesign was a bipartisan effort modeled after similar work in other Southern states, with support across a wide ideological spectrum, from Christian conservatives, business leaders and liberal organizations. Landry, who served as the state's attorney general for eight years until he became governor, has repeatedly slammed Louisianas 2017 criminal justice overhaul. This past election season, violent crime became a top concern among voters. As in numerous other parts of the country, violence surged in Louisiana following the onset of COVID-19. And while data from the Federal Bureau of Investigation shows that crime has steadily decreased in Louisiana over the past decade, New Orleans has continued to struggle with a surge of killings. This will be Louisiana's second special session since Landry took office last month. During the first legislative gathering, under the direction of Landry, the GOP-dominated Legislature approved a congressional map with a second majority-Black district and passed a bill that reshapes the primary system for congressional elections. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Chairman of the State Duma Commission of the Federal Assembly of Russia, General Secretary of the General Trade Unions Confederation Viktor Pinsky has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on his confident victory in the presidential election, Trend reports. Will be updated For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} For months after George Floyd was killed by police in May 2020, people from around the world traveled to the site of his murder in Minneapolis and left signs, paintings and poems to memorialize the man whose death reignited a movement against systemic racism. Now hundreds of those artifacts are on display for the first time outside of Minnesota, giving viewers elsewhere the chance to engage with the emotionally raw protest art and mourn Floyd, as well as other Black Americans killed by police. Its different than seeing it on TV, said Leah Hall of Phoenix, who brought her two young children to the exhibit that opened this month at the Arizona State University Art Museum. Its an important part of history that they are not learning in school, said Hall, adding that she wasn't able to fly to Minneapolis to honor Floyd's life. Twin Flames: The George Floyd Uprising from Minneapolis to Phoenix" features about 500 artifacts that protesters and mourners left at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, where Floyd was killed. It is the largest collection of work from the intersection that has been on public display. Paintings of Floyd and poems about him written on poster boards stand on easels throughout the exhibit. Signs made with paper plates and reused cardboard that say Justice 4 Floyd and Enough is Enough cover the walls. The heavy themes of the words and images on display are contrasted by arrangements of fake flowers and flickering, battery-powered, white candles evoking the vigil held in Minneapolis after his death. What's on display in Phoenix is just a fraction of the thousands of artifacts under the care of the George Floyd Global Memorial, an organization that also tends to the living memorial at the intersection where he died and which remains closed off to traffic. Many of the artifacts appear to have been written or drawn in a hurry. This conveys the urgency with which people felt the need to express their anger and grief after watching eyewitness video that captured the moment before he died, said Jeanelle Austin, director of the George Floyd Global Memorial. Some recent visitors to the exhibit were moved to tears. The organizers of the exhibit say their goal was to create a space for understanding and civil discourse, and potentially stimulate collective action against police violence and other systemic inequities in the U.S. We have always engaged with social and political work at the museum. Throughout time, art and protest have been side by side, and this (exhibit) really aligns with our mission to center creativity in art in the service of social good," said Brittany Corrales, a curator at the museum who helped facilitate those organizing the exhibit. The organizers also see the exhibit as an opportunity to examine the history of museums in America overlooking the inequities faced by Black Americans and other marginalized communities. To bring this here to the Phoenix metropolitan area, to Arizona State University, is significant because there is a history of police violence that is here that dates back to the early part of the 20th century, said Rashad Shabazz, a university professor and board member at ASUs Center for Work and Democracy, which funded the exhibit and brought the artifacts to Arizona. The exhibit draws direct parallels between Minneapolis and Phoenix, where a Black man named Dion Johnson was fatally shot by an Arizona state trooper the same day that Floyd was murdered. The George Floyd Global Memorial is hopeful of bringing the exhibit to other cities after it leaves Phoenix in July, but there are no plans yet. One Phoenix resident who visited the exhibit last week said it would resonate far beyond the United States. This is not just an American problem, said Charm Abella, who was living in Spain in 2020 and remembers protests reaching around the world. Other museums around the country are also delving into themes explored at the ASU Art Museum. In Louisville, Kentucky, the Speed Art Museum last year honored the life of Breonna Taylor, who was killed by police officers there after they illegally entered her apartment in March 2020. The exhibit, the second at the museum to focus on Taylor's life, prominently displayed a portrait of Taylor created by Amy Sherald, the artist who painted the portrait of Michelle Obama for the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C. The exhibit spoke to the idea that Black artists could use portraits to spark conversation and potentially action, said Raphaela Platow, the museum's director. Whats important for us is that we continue having ongoing conversations about the issues that we are facing as a community, from police violence to racial segregation to systemic oppression, Platow said. Previous art exhibits in Arizona that were critical of police officers drew local condemnation. An art exhibit at the Mesa Arts Center in Arizona drew concern from the city in September for planning to showcase signs against police violence that could be considered offensive to city employees because of explicit language. But the organizers of Twin Flames stressed the importance of confronting hard truths. Our purpose is to be able to create spaces that remind people that the work is not over, said Austin, the director of the George Floyd Global Memorial. Family members of Floyd who visited the exhibit last week were deeply moved. Floyd's aunt, Angela Harrelson, who traveled from Minneapolis, said that upon entering the museum she felt overwhelmed, but in a good way. I saw all the art that people meticulously cared for and took the time to place," she said. "It was concentrated with so much love and passion. Sign up for our free Health Check email to receive exclusive analysis on the week in health Get our free Health Check email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Health Check email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Getting regular erections may play an important role in having healthy sex lives, research has suggested. The study in mice provides insights that could one day lead to new treatments for erectile dysfunction in humans, experts suggest. Researchers at Karolinska Institutet and Uppsala University in Sweden found that cells called fibroblasts have a previously unknown and very important role to play in regulating blood flow in the penis. Erections are controlled in part by the corpora cavernosa (CC) tissue that can fill with blood and enlarge when blood vessels expand. Eduardo Guimaraes, researcher at the Department of Cell and Molecular Biology at Karolinska Institutet and first author of the paper, said: Fibroblasts are the most abundant cells in the penis of both mice and humans but they have been neglected in research. Now we can show, using a very precise method called optogenetics, that they have a very important role in regulating blood flow in the penis, which is what makes the penis erect. Mens sexual health and wellbeing largely depend on the ability to attain penile erections. However, ageing and health risk factors including diabetes and narrowing of the arteries can affect this. According to the findings, fibroblasts bring about erection by taking up chemicals that lead to the widening of blood vessels in the penis. How effective this process is depends on the number of fibroblasts. A study suggests that regular erections play an important role in the healthy sex lives of men (Alamy/PA) The study, published in Science, found that the number of fibroblasts in the penis is affected by the frequency of erections the more frequent, the more fibroblasts, and vice versa. Christian Goritz, senior researcher at the Department of Cell and Molecular Biology at Karolinska Institutet, said: Its not so strange really. If you exert yourself a lot, your body adapts. If you run regularly, it will eventually become easier to breathe while running. He said that in terms of what conclusions can be drawn for humans from studies on mice, in this case there are significant similarities, adding: The basic mechanisms of erection are very similar in all mammals regarding anatomy, cell structure and so on However, there is one difference between humans and most mammals they have a bone in their penis. This means that effective blood flow regulation is probably even more important for human reproduction. The researchers also found that older mice had fewer fibroblasts in the penis, which was also reflected in lower blood flow. The ability to get an erection also decreases with age in humans, which could be partly due to fewer fibroblasts in the penis, the experts suggest. Erectile dysfunction drugs appear to reduce the risk of men developing Alzheimers Disease (PA) (PA Archive) The study comes as a new study suggested men who take drugs like viagra for erectile dysfunction may be inadvertently reducing their chance of getting Alzheimers disease. Men who took drugs to combat the issue were 18% less likely to develop Alzheimers than those who did not. The new study, published in the journal Neurology, saw experts from University College London (UCL) examine the medical records of 269,725 UK men aged 40 and over, with an average age of 59, who were diagnosed with erectile dysfunction between 2000 and 2017. Alzheimers Research UK said that the possibility of repurposing drugs already used for other health conditions could help accelerate progress and open up new avenues to prevent or treat dementia-causing diseases. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Israeli airstrikes struck the central Gaza Strip and the southern city of Rafah on the border with Egypt overnight into Friday, causing nearly two dozen fatalities including women and children, witnesses and hospital officials said. The overnight airstrikes came hours after U.S. President Joe Biden said Thursday that he considers Israels conduct in the war to be over the top. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken left Israel on Thursday as the divide grows between the two close allies on the way forward. More than half of Gazas population of 2.3 million has been driven by Israels military offensive toward the border with Egypt. Unable to leave the tiny Palestinian territory, many are living in makeshift tent camps or overflowing U.N.-run shelters. The Palestinian death toll from the war has surpassed 27,840 people, the Health Ministry in Gaza said. A quarter of Gazas residents are starving. The war began with Hamas assault into Israel on Oct. 7, in which militants killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducted around 250. Hamas is still holding more than 130 hostages, but around 30 of them are believed to be dead. Currently: Israel and Hamas are far apart on a Gaza cease-fire and hostage deal. What are the sticking points? Blinken ends latest Mideast mission after new Israeli snub of proposed Gaza cease-fire plan Family says two American brothers, 18 and 20, detained in Israeli raid in Gaza US conducts new airstrikes targeting Yemens Houthi rebels Find more of APs coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war. Here's the latest: ISRAELI FORCES STORM AL-HAMAL HOSPITAL IN KHAN YOUNIS, PALESTINIAN HUMANITARIAN GROUP SAYS RAFAH, Gaza Strip Israeli forces have stormed the Al-Amal Hospital in Khan Younis in Gaza, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society said Friday. The hospital is home to a few dozen people displaced by the conflict as well as the patients and medical staff. Khan Younis has been the center of the Israeli ground offensive in the past weeks. Earlier this week, the PRCS said that 8,000 displaced people were evacuated from its headquarters in Khan Younis and Al-Amal Hospital. It said only 40 displaced people and around 80 patients and 100 staff members remain in the medical center. The Red Crescent gave no further details about Fridays raid. Hamas leader Yehya Sinwar and the commander of the groups military wing, Mohammed Deif, both grew up in the Khan Younis refugee camp. Israel says the city is a Hamas stronghold. Hospitals in the Gaza Strip have been hard hit by the war. Israel has repeatedly surrounded and raided Gaza hospitals, saying that Hamas uses the facilities as cover for militant operations. The raids have forced many hospitals to close and displaced thousands of patients and people who had been seeking shelter. With humanitarian aid trickling into Gaza, the territorys health care system is suffering from shortages of many medicines. The few hospitals that remain in operation, including Al-Amal, have been overwhelmed with patients and displaced people seeking refuge. UNICEF SAYS ESCALATION IN RAFAH WOULD PUT THOUSANDS MORE CHILDREN AT RISK RAFAH, Gaza Strip The U.N. childrens agency called on all parties to refrain from military escalation in Rafah, at the southern edge of the Gaza Strip, warning that there are more than 600,000 children in the area, some of whom have been displaced more than once since the war began four months ago. UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell said in a statement late Thursday that military escalation in Rafah would mark another devastating turn in a war that has killed over 27,000 people according to health officials in Gaza. She said it could leave thousands more dead through violence or lack of essential services, and further disrupt humanitarian assistance. We need Gazas last remaining hospitals, shelters, markets and water systems to stay functional, Russell said. Without them, hunger and disease will skyrocket, taking more child lives. More than half of the Gaza Strips 2.3 million people have fled to Rafah, heeding Israeli evacuation orders ahead of the militarys expanding ground offensive. Evacuation orders now cover two-thirds of the besieged, tiny enclave. Russell appealed to all parties to the conflict to adhere to their obligations under international humanitarian law, which includes taking the utmost care to spare civilians and civilian infrastructure. ISRAELI STRIKES KILL AT LEAST 22 IN CENTRAL GAZA AND RAFAH RAFAH, Gaza Strip At least 22 people, including children and women, were killed in four Israeli airstrikes overnight into Friday in the central area of the Gaza Strip and in the southern city of Rafah on the border with Egypt, witnesses and hospital officials said. The strikes hit a residential building in Rafah, killing eight people, and a kindergarten-turned-shelter for the displaced in the central town of Zuwaida, killed five. The dead and wounded were taken to nearby hospitals, where bodies were seen by journalists from The Associated Press. A strike killed nine people in Deir al-Balah. More than half of the Gaza Strips 2.3 million people have fled to Rafah, heeding Israeli evacuation orders ahead of the militarys expanding ground offensive. Evacuation orders now cover two-thirds of the tiny besieged enclave. Even in areas of refuge, such as Rafah, Israel routinely launches air strikes against what it says are Hamas targets. It holds the militant group responsible for civilian casualties because it operates from civilian areas. President Joe Biden said Thursday that he considers Israels conduct of the war to be over the top. Israeli ground forces are still focussing on the city of Khan Younis, just north of Rafah, but Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu repeatedly warned this week that Rafah would be next, creating panic among hundreds of thousands of displaced people. Netanyahus words have also alarmed Egypt which has said that any ground operation in the Rafah area or mass displacement across the border would undermine its 40-year-old peace treaty with Israel. The mostly sealed Gaza-Egypt border is also the main entry point for humanitarian aid. Israels 4-month-old air and ground offensive, ignited by a deadly Hamas attack on Oct. 7, has killed over 27,000 Palestinians, driven most people from their homes and pushed a quarter of the population toward starvation. BIDEN CALLS ISRAEL'S RESPONSE OVER THE TOP WASHINGTON President Joe Biden on Thursday called Israels military response in Gaza over the top" and said he continues to work tirelessly to press Israel and Hamas to agree on an extended pause in fighting. I am of the view, as you know, that the conduct of the response in the Gaza Strip has been over the top, Biden told reporters in exchange on Thursday evening after delivering remarks on a special counsel report on his handling of classified documents. Biden added that he continues to push for an extended pause in fighting in Gaza to facilitate the release of the dozens of remaining hostages that were captured during the Oct. 7 attack on Israel. Hamas, however, has demanded that Israel release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners and end the war as part of a hostage deal. Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has refused to agree to those terms. But Biden said he still is hopeful a deal can be worked out that might open a path to ending the war. I am pushing very hard now to deal with this hostage cease-fire, Biden said. Ive been working tirelessly on this deal. How can I say this without revealing to lead to a sustained pause in the fighting in, and the actions taking place, in the Gaza Strip. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Pope Francis on Friday blasted the radical individualism that he said was infecting society today, as he greeted Argentine pilgrims who are in town for this weekends canonization of the first female saint from his home country. Instead, Francis held up as a model the 18th century Argentine laywoman lovingly known as Mama Antula, who ministered to the poor and helped keep Jesuit spirituality alive in Argentina after the religious order, to which the pope belongs, was suppressed. On Sunday Francis will canonize Mama Antula, whose real name was Maria Antonia di San Giuseppe de Paz y Figueroa, in a ceremony that will also mark his first meeting with Argentinas new libertarian president, Javier Milei. Milei, who has spoken in favor of loosening labor laws and suggested people should be allowed to sell their own vital organs, was due to arrive in Rome on Friday from Israel. After the canonization Mass on Sunday, he is to meet formally on Monday with Francis and later Italys right-wing leader, Premier Giorgia Meloni. Speaking to pilgrims who travelled to Rome for the ceremony, Francis praised Mama Antula as an example of someone who was willing to risk it all for the sake of spreading the faith, especially to the poorest. Mama Antulas charity, above all in the service to the neediest, is today very much in evidence in the midst of a society that runs the risk of forgetting that radical individualism is the most difficult virus to overcome, he told them. A virus that deceives. It makes us believe that its all about giving free rein to ones ambitions. Mama Antula was born in 1730 to a wealthy family in Tucuman, Argentina but left her privilege behind at age 15 to join a group of Jesuit-inspired women. After the Company of Jesus was suppressed in 1767 and its priests expelled from Spains colonies, Mama Antula kept the Jesuits Ignatian spiritual exercises alive by teaching them across Argentina, even at the risk of being imprisoned. This dimension of clandestinity cannot be forgotten. It is very important, Francis said. Another message that she gives us in todays world is not to give up in the face of adversity, not to give up in our good intentions to bring the Gospel to all, despite the challenges that this may represent. While historys first Jesuit and first Argentine pope clearly has a particular affinity for a Jesuit-inspired Argentine like Mama Antula, its not the first time he has given his countrymen a saint so close to his heart. In 2016, Francis canonized Argentinas first saint: Jose Gabriel del Rosario Brochero, a poncho-wearing, mate-sipping gaucho priest who ministered in the Argentine peripheries, and was in many ways a 19th-century version of Francis himself. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A body strongly believed to be Clapham chemical attack suspect Abdul Ezedi has been found in the River Thames, police said. The Metropolitan Police recovered the body from the water near Tower Pier in central London after it was spotted by the crew of a passing boat. It comes after the force said it was clear Ezedi walked with purpose while hugging the Thames river line on 31 January, before pausing half way down Chelsea Bridge, walking to and from the side and leaning over the railings. Based on the distinctive clothing he was wearing at the time of the attack and property found on his body, we strongly believe we have recovered the body of Ezedi. We have been in contact with his family to pass on the news, Commander Jon Savell said. Police will now use DNA testing and dental records to confirm the bodys identity. So what were Ezedis movements, and where was his body found? The Independent has put together a map and timeline of all the developments below: View more Wednesday 31 January 12.15am Detectives say Ezedis vehicle was seen in Newcastle shortly after midnight last Wednesday. 6.30am The vehicle was seen travelling into Tooting, south London. 4.30pm A further sighting of his car was confirmed in Croydon at 4.30pm. 7pm He is seen driving into Streatham. 7.25pm The attack takes place in Lessar Avenue on a 31-year-old woman, who was with her daughters, aged three and eight. Ezedi was previously in a relationship with the woman, but he is not the father of the children. Ezedi allegedly throws the younger child to the ground and makes off in his car, which crashes into a stationary vehicle nearby. He then runs off. The Metropolitan Police were called to the scene, with 12 people, including five officers, injured. CCTV appears to capture moment Clapham acid attack unfolded at around 7.25pm last Wednesday 7.33pm The suspect boarded a Northern line train at Clapham South Tube station. 7.59pm He leaves that train at Kings Cross Tube station. 8.42pm He is seen on CCTV leaving Tesco at 21 Caledonian Road. He exits and turns right. He has significant injuries and is believed to have bought a bottle of water. He was seen on CCTV leaving a Tesco Express at 21 Caledonian Road, near Kings Cross (PA) 9pm Ezedi enters Kings Cross Tube station and boards a Victoria Line Tube southbound. 9.10pm Ezedi arrives at Victoria Station and then boards a District Line Tube eastbound at 9.16pm. 9.33pm He is seen leaving Tower Hill Underground Station. 9.47pm Ezedi is seen on Allhallows Lane in the City of London. He travels through a passage to Cousin Lane and then turns right, walking towards Upper Thames Street. He was seen on Allhallows Lane in the City of London at 9.47pm (PA Media) 9.51pm He turns left onto Upper Thames Street and travels along the street at 9.54pm. 9.59pm Ezedi passes the City of London School on Pauls Walk, heading towards Blackfriars Bridge, passing the riverboat pier. 10.04pm He passes the Unilever building and heads towards Victoria Embankment. 10.06pm Ezedi passes Carmelite House, at the junction with Carmelite Street, heading towards Temple. 10.28pm He passes Westminster Pier, goes up the steps and continues towards Westminster. 10.33pm Ezedi is seen walking south on Westminster bridge. 10.36pm He walks across Westminster Bridge, heading down the steps on the London Eye side towards Lambeth. 10.42pm Ezedi was seen walking west on south Thames Path towards Lambeth Bridge. 10.55pm He travels along the Albert Embankment approaching Vauxhall Bridge. 11.00pm Ezedi crosses Vauxhall Bridge towards stairs on the Houses of Parliament side of the river. 11.03pm He crosses Vauxhall Bridge Road, into Grosvenor Road. 11.10pm Ezedi walks westbound past the Shell petrol station. 11.19pm He passes the Thames Water Building, Grosvenor Road, heading towards Chelsea Bridge. 11.25pm He crosses over Chelsea Bridge and enters Battersea Park. The last know sighting of him was on Chelsea Bridge at 11.25pm (PA) 11.27pm In his last sighting, Ezedi is seen walking on the Chelsea Bridge again before leaning over the railings. Monday 19 February 4pm A body strongly suspected to be Ezedis is spotted by a passing boat crew near Tower Pier in London. Police are now using DNA testing and dental records to confirm the bodys identity. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A 17-year-old boy has died while at work on an industrial estate in Greater Manchester. Officers from Greater Manchester Police were called to the incident at a business premises in Tile Street, Bury, on Thursday morning. Despite the efforts of emergency services, the teenager was pronounced dead at the scene. A 41-year-old man and a 36-year-old man have been arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter. The older man has also been arrested on suspicion of driving offences. The boys death has also triggered an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), which will work with the force to establish what happened. A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said: Officers were called to reports of concerns for welfare at a business premises on Tile Street, Bury. It was established that a 17-year-old boy was involved in a workplace accident and despite the best efforts of emergency services, he was sadly pronounced dead at the scene. A joint investigation between GMP Bury CID and the Health and Safety Executive has been launched to make enquiries into the circumstances that led to the boys death. Enquiries are ongoing at this stage. HSE inspector Lisa Bailey said: We are aware of an incident and currently making enquiries alongside Greater Manchester Police. A spokesperson for the North West Ambulance Service confirmed it was also called out to the incident. Tile Street is a a short cul-de-sac of businesses off Birch Street close to Bury town centre. A worker at a nearby scrapyard told the Manchester Evening News: An ambulance tried coming into the yard. They said apparently somebody had been hurt. Loads of police came and we took them down there. Close Clapham attack suspect may have gone into River Thames For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Police are searching the River Thames for the man suspected of carrying out the Clapham chemical attack after two bodies were found in the water. A police boat circled between Vauxhall and Chelsea bridges on Saturday morning, one day after the Metropolitan Police revealed their belief that Abdul Ezedi, 35, may have jumped or fallen from Chelsea Bridge. A body was recovered near HMS Belfast just after 10am and another was found around 30 minutes later along the river in Limehouse. The force said neither of the discoveries are linked to Ezedi and the search efforts resumed at around 10am on Sunday. Ezedi was last seen on CCTV pacing up and down Chelsea Bridge and leaning over the railings four hours after the attack on January 31. Detectives say his death is the most probable outcome, but officers warned it may take months for a body to be recovered or it may never be found. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A woman who ran over and caused serious injuries to a one-year-old baby girl while she was drunk behind the wheel has been jailed. Mary Casey, 34, reversed her Nissan Qashqai over her great-niece, who had been placed on the pavement, just minutes after crashing into two parked cars in Cambridge. She had first been seen driving along Mill Road at about 7.10pm on 24 July 2022 when she decided to overtake four cars waiting at a red traffic lights, before driving the wrong way down a one-way street. At the time, she had her two children in the back, as well as the victim and another great-niece. CCTV showed Casey overtaking four cars at a red traffic light (Cambridgeshire Constabulary) After turning at speed around a corner and through the no-entry signs, she lost control of her car and crashed. Another passenger retrieved the baby and placed her on the pavement by St Barnabas Road in Cambridge, but Casey reserved the car and ran her over. She then continued to drive in the wrong direction before stopping a short distance away when the car became undrivable due to the damage. Meanwhile, the one-year-old was rushed to Addenbrookes Hospital with serious injuries, which included a bleed on the brain, a fractured skull and fractured ribs. Casey and her children were also taken to hospital as a precaution, and a sample of blood tested for alcohol content showed her to be over the legal driving limit. She eventually stopped her car after the damage made it undriveable (Cambridgeshire Constabulary ) After pleading guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving, she was jailed at Cambridge Crown Court for 20 months and has been disqualified from driving for three years and 10 months. PC Edd Davidson-Smith said: This was a shocking incident where Casey has driven recklessly and has seriously injured one of her young relatives. The outcome was very close to being a fatality and at one point, the little girl was given six hours to live and it is only thanks to extensive medical treatment, she is alive today. I hope this sentence provides a warning to drivers out there who think it is acceptable to drive recklessly or once they have consumed alcohol. Casey put so many people at risk during this episode of thoughtless driving, so I am glad she has been jailed. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A pensioner has been jailed for life for the murder of his wife of more than 50 years in a car fire. David Clarke, 80, pleaded guilty to the murder of his 77-year-old wife Helen Clarke at a hearing at Swansea Crown Court in December. On Friday morning, he was given a life sentence with a minimum term of 21 years and eight months. The couple lived in a cottage on the Gower Peninsula. On 22 September, both were discovered in a burning black Honda Jazz car in Sketty Lane near Swansea Beach. After being pulled from the car by Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Helen was treated by burns specialists but died two days later from her injuries. Clarke was also taken to hospital with burns. She had been repeatedly hit by a hammer prior to Clarke starting the fire, which he did by spraying her with flammable liquid. Appearing at the crown court in December, Clarke, of Higher Lane, Langland, Swansea, pleaded guilty to his wifes murder via video link. The court heard that Clarke was a trained electrical engineer and former competition shooter, who had met his wife at a church service. They married in 1968. David Clarke (South Wales Police) The couple, who had four children, moved to Zambia and later to Zimbabwe then called Rhodesia. In a witness statement, his son, David Clarke J, said his parents had always argued, with his father sometimes being violent and bullying towards his mother but thought they had mellowed with age. The court heard the couple had begun to seriously argue again in the days before the incident, after Clarke revealed he had an affair some years prior and had orchestrated a recent holiday to Australia to see the woman again. On the day of the murder, Clarke sent a text message to his children telling them he loved them. Then, under the pretence of taking his wife to the beach, he drove her to Sketty Lane, where he hit her nine times with a hammer and covered her with flammable liquid. David Clarke, 80, was jailed for life at Swansea Crown Court (PA) A passing council workman, hearing Mrs Clarkes screams and noticing flames from the car, attempted to save the couple but Clarke pushed him away before driving off and crashing into a hedge with the car going up in a ball of flames. Mrs Clarke later told emergency services my husband has done this before she died on 24 September. Passing his sentence, Judge Paul Thomas KC said: In September last year, you killed your wife of over 50 years. You killed her in an utterly brutal and merciless manner. You killed her in a car on a busy road in Swansea, where children were on the way to school. You hit her repeatedly to the head with a lump hammer; you did so on no fewer than nine occasions. You then doused her with petrol and set fire to her. You knew that in setting fire to her, she would be caused an unimaginable pain and terror. Judge Thomas called the attack savage, and said Clarke had appeared to show no remorse for his actions and sentenced him to life in prison. In a statement, her family said: Our mother was a loving, kind and courageous woman who greatly cherished her family, her friends, and the world at large. She was strongly committed to her faith, had a laugh which would set a room alight, and a great appreciation for life and the beauty of the world. Her passing in such a sudden and tragic manner has been devastating; and our grief is immeasurable. The situation we find ourselves in highlights the complexity and fragility of the human mind. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} More than 200 Afghans who applied for sanctuary in the UK have been waiting two years for a decision from British authorities, The Independent can reveal. The Afghans, who applied for help based on their claims they helped the British armed forces, have been left in limbo, with many living in fear for their lives, campaigners said. Armed forces minister James Heappey confirmed 2,125 people were still waiting on a decision as of Tuesday, with 10 per cent of these waiting for two years. The numbers waiting on a decision are up from 2,026 applications in September 2023, despite the Ministry of Defence pledging to cut the backlog to zero by the end of summer. Ministers have faced criticism over their handling of applications to the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (Arap) scheme, designed for those who worked alongside the British forces in Afghanistan. A member of Border Force staff assists an Afghan refugee on her arrival on an evacuation flight from Afghanistan, at Heathrow (Getty) In a joint investigation with Lighthouse Reports and Sky News, The Independent revealed that the cases of Afghan special forces who were paid and trained by the UK government had been wrongly rejected for help. The government has now committed to reassessing some 2,000 applications from those with credible links to Afghan specialist units. Afghans who had confirmed links to the British armed forces were also abandoned in hotels in Pakistan for months on end after Rishi Sunak decided to limit the use of hotels in the UK. Those waiting for a decision in Afghanistan will face a further wait for relocation even if they are found eligible, with restarted MoD flights now transferring people from Pakistan to the UK. Of the 2,125 Afghans who are still waiting on a resettlement decision, 207 have been waiting two years, 333 for a year and 268 have been waiting for 18 months, government figures show. 750 of the cases are new, while the rest are complex, the MoD said. Labours shadow armed forces minister Luke Pollard said that the governments treatment of Afghans has been a shameful saga of failure. He added: Ministers have failed to deal with the backlog of Arap applications, left Afghans who served alongside our forces in limbo and thousands are still waiting for decisions on their eligibility to relocate to the UK. The special forces units abandoned to the Taliban by Britain Sarah Fenby-Dixon, Afghanistan consultant at the Refugee Aid Network, said that the fact more than 2,000 people were still waiting on an Arap decision is evidence that the government has failed to understand the gravity of the situation for those Afghans left behind and at risk. She added: Many of these people face serious and immediate threats because of their previous work with HM government. Just today, it is reported that the Taliban are again carrying out house-to-house searches in Kabul and many Arap applicants face torture and death if they are found. She called on the government to get the backlog cleared as quickly as possible. One Afghan former intelligence analyst, who provided letters of support from his RAF colleagues, has been waiting on his Arap decision for over two years. He fled to the UK on a small boat, is now living in a Home Office hotel, and has been threatened with removal to Rwanda. He said he had written numerous times to the MoDs resettlement scheme pleading with them to assess his case. He added: What the MoD is currently doing is complete betrayal and unfairness. Ive written to them ten times but I get no response at all. It seems like they have completely closed Arap and left everyone out. An MoD spokesperson said: We are honouring our commitment to those brave Afghans who supported the UK mission in Afghanistan, and those granted settled status. We continue to process every Arap application at pace and the vast majority have been processed. The small number remaining are mainly a mixture of new cases or very complex cases. So far, we have brought around 24,600 people to safety from Afghanistan, including over 15,600 people from the Arap scheme, which is one of the most generous of any country, and thousands of Afghans are eligible for our resettlement schemes. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Secretary General of the Commonwealth of Independent States Sergey Lebedev has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on the occasion of his confident victory in the extraordinary presidential election, Trend reports. Will be updated Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} King Charles has issued his first public statement following his cancer diagnosis. The 75-year-old monarch revealed that he had been diagnosed with cancer on Monday, before flying with Queen Camilla to Sandringham, where he is resting following the start of treatment. On Wednesday night, he broke his public silence to issue a statement to mark the 50th anniversary of independence of the former British colony Grenada. The King apologised for being unable to visit the Caribbean island, making reference to Grenadas national dish, a stew known as Oil Down. The statement read: I can only say how sorry I am that I cannot be with you in person to mark this momentous milestone, and to enjoy a little Oil Down with you all! King Charles with Camilla. The pair flew to Sandringham on Tuesday where the King is resting (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) My thoughts are with everyone across Grenada, Carriacou and Petit Martinique, and all those in the Grenadian diaspora - one people, one family - as you celebrate everything you have achieved and all that your future holds. My family join me in sending our heartfelt congratulations to you all. Charles also said he had special memories from visiting Grenada five years ago with Camilla. The statement said: My wife and I hold such special memories of our visit to your beautiful Spice Island five years ago, and of the warm and touching welcome you extended to us. Then, as whenever I have met Grenadians anywhere in the world, I was struck by your resilience, the strength of your community and by your shared determination to make a positive difference. Charles and Camillia visited Grenada five years ago. Charles said he had special memories from the trip (REUTERS) The statement was issued on the same night Prince William attended a charity gala dinner in London, where he thanked the public for their kind messages of support. Earlier in the day, the Prince of Wales led an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle. Meanwhile, Prince Harry was spotted at London Heathrow ahead of his flight back to the US having spent just over 24 hours in the country. Harry had a meeting with Charles that lasted less than an hour on Tuesday. Their previous face-to-face meeting had been during the Coronation last May, although he made a speedy exit to return to the US to celebrate his son Archies fourth birthday. The Kings cancer was discovered while he was being treated for a benign enlarged prostate last month. The palace confirmed it was not prostate cancer but has remained tight-lipped about the nature and stage of his illness. Charles personally called both Harry and William, as well as his siblings Anne, the Duke of York and the Duke of Edinburgh, to give them the news before it was publicly announced to the nation by the Palace at 6pm on Monday. The Palace has called for the Kings privacy to be respected, especially during his treatment, but said he wanted to make his diagnosis public because of his long-running support for cancer charities. When the King shared his diagnosis of an enlarged prostate there was a significant increase in searches for the condition on the NHS website. (AFP via Getty Images) On the day after the announcement there were 16,410 visits to the NHS websites prostate enlargement page compared with 1,414 visits the previous day. Buckingham Palace said that the King chose to share his cancer diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer. As other royal family members will look to step up their responsiblities to support the King, there has already been an indication that he will resume weekly meetings in person with Rishi Sunak in two weeks. And the statement on Grenadas anniversary of independence showed he looked to continue his work despite his diagnosis. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Prince Harry has flown home to LA following a 26-hour visit to the UK that saw him reunite with his father for less than an hour after his shock cancer diagnosis. The Duke of Sussex spent almost as much time in the air as he did in England, on what was his first visit to his homeland since September. The long journey from the US took Harry more than 10 hours, but his meeting with King Charles at Clarence House in London reportedly lasted less than an hour. Differing newspaper reports say the get-together at the royal residence was either just 30 or 45 minutes long. King Charles and Queen Camilla were spotted leaving Clarence House less than an hour after Harry arrived (AFP via Getty Images) There were hopes the 39-year-olds visit from California would help repair damaged relationships between himself, his father, and his brother the Prince of Wales but these hopes were soon dashed when it became clear he would not be seeing William during the trip. Charles had personally called both Harry and William, as well as his siblings Anne, the Duke of York and the Duke of Edinburgh, to share his health news before it was publicly announced to the nation by the Palace at 6pm on Monday. Less than a day after the news broke, Harry was spotted arriving at a private terminal at LAX in his black Range Rover on Monday evening LA time. His wife Meghan Markle and their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, remained in California, where they have lived since stepping down as working royals in 2020. Harrys flight took off just before 7pm LA time and the Duke flew more than 5,000 miles over the Atlantic before touching down at Heathrow Airport at around 12:30pm on Tuesday. He was driven directly to see his father at his London Residence, arriving at Clarence House at 2:45pm where the pair had a brief meeting. A car believed to be transporting Prince Harry enters Clarence House, the home of King Charles (REUTERS) Clarence House is the much-loved London base of Charles and Camilla after the pair moved there in 2003. The residence, built between 1825 and 1827 to the designs of John Nash, is the former home of the Kings grandmother the Queen Mother. But it would appear there was nowhere there for Harry to stay, with reports that the Kings youngest son was booked into an undisclosed hotel in London instead of a royal residence. Less than an hour after Harry arrived at Clarence House, Charles and Queen Camilla were pictured being driven to Buckingham Palace, where a helicopter believed to be carrying the couple took off from the roof and took them to their Sandringham home in Norfolk, without Harry. Prince Harry came to the UK to see his father but his wife Meghan once again stayed behind in the US (Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) Harrys next sighting came when he was spotted at Heathrow Airport at around 1.30pm on Wednesday, little more than a day after he landed. While it has not been confirmed which flight he boarded, but British Airways flight 269 was due to take off at roughly 3.05pm and arrived at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) at around 6.30pm local time the same day. In total, the duke will have spent around 21 hours in the air over the course of his whistlestop transatlantic trip. A first-class direct return flight from LAX to Heathrow currently costs around 8,250, and according to a carbon footprint calculator, his emissions for his journey would have amounted to around 14 tonnes. , Clarence House is the much-loved London base of Charles and Camilla after the pair moved there in 2003 (REUTERS) King Charles and Queen Camilla flew to their home in Sandringham on Tuesday by helicopter (REUTERS) Harry has not made any public statements or appearances since his fathers diagnosis was announced. He last came to the UK five months ago, when he attended a WellChild awards event, but was not believed to have spent any time with his father or brother and again stayed in a hotel. The last time he came face-to-face with the King was during the Coronation last May, although he made a speedy exit to return to the US to celebrate his son Archies fourth birthday. Harrys reported stay at a London hotel during this most recent trip, rather than any of the many royal residences available, suggests the relationship between the duke and his UK-based family continues to be strained. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex vacated Frogmore Cottage in Windsor last year leaving them without a base in the UK and now reportedly need a formal invitation to be able to stay with the royals on protected property. The warring brothers did not meet during Harrys trip (Getty Images) Prince William returned to his royal duties on Wednesday (PA Wire) The prince has been very vocal in his criticism of his family since he left for the US, both in interviews and his autobiography Spare. However, it has been suggested the reason behind the brevity of the reunion between father and son may be more practical, given Charles condition. Appearing on Good Morning Britain on Wednesday, Sunday Times Royal Editor Roya Nikkhah said: The King was very tired after the procedure he had had the day before. Im sure Harry would have loved to have spent more time with him, but hes probably quite respectful of his dad going through his treatment. Charles cancer announcement came shortly after Kate underwent surgery for undisclosed reasons (2023 Getty Images) Harrys brother William returned to his royal duties on Wednesday, while his brother was still in the country. The Prince of Wales carried out an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle in the morning and then in the evening, once Harry had flown home, he attended a gala event alongside Tom Cruise. Insiders close to Harry claim he would have welcomed the chance to meet with his brother, with one telling the Mail Online: The Dukes primary reason to travel to the UK is to visit his father. If the opportunity were to arise to see the Prince of Wales then the Duke would have gladly accepted it. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The Duke of Sussex and Piers Morgan have become embroiled in a public war of words after the prince was awarded further substantial damages in his phone hacking claim against the publisher of the Daily Mirror. Harry hit out at Mr Morgan after he reached a settlement with Mirror Group Newspapers (MGN), which will pay Harry the damages, as well as all of the costs of his claim. His barrister said this included an interim payment towards the costs of 400,000. In a statement read outside the High Court by his barrister David Sherborne, the prince said the former Mirror editor knew perfectly well that phones were being hacked. He added: In light of this, we call again for the authorities to uphold the rule of law and to prove that no one is above it. That includes Mr Morgan, who as editor knew perfectly well what was going on, as the judge held. Follow our live blog for all the latest royal updates His contempt for the courts ruling and his continued attacks ever since demonstrate why it was so important to obtain a clear and detailed judgment. But the journalist and TV presenter hit back in a post on X, responding: I totally agree with Prince Harry that ruthless intrusion into the private lives of the Royal Family for financial gain is utterly reprehensible and I hope he stops doing it. Harry with David Sherborne in London last year (PA Archive) A judge ruled at the same court in December that Mr Morgan knew about and was involved in phone hacking when he was editor of the Daily Mirror as the duke won damages of 140,600 against MGN. Speaking to reporters outside his west London home, Mr Morgan responded to the ruling: I want to reiterate, as Ive consistently said for many years now Ive never hacked a phone or told anybody else to hack a phone. And nobody has produced any actual evidence to prove that I did. He insisted he had zero knowledge of the single article published in his time as editor of the Daily Mirror that may have involved illegal information gathering, before launching a scathing attack on Harry. The TV presenter branded the duke ruthless, greedy and hypocritical, as he accused him of trying to destroy the British monarchy. Morgan outside his home in London on Friday (PA) In his statement, Harry said his case has uncovered the shockingly dishonest way the Daily Mirror acted for so many years, as he called the judgment extremely damaging. The duke vowed that his mission continues, as he believes in the positive change it will bring for all of us, amid ongoing legal battles against the UK tabloid media. The settlement comes after a trial last June, in which the duke became the first royal to step inside the witness box, with the judge finding that 15 out of 33 articles under consideration had been the product of unlawful information gathering. Harry at a Las Vegas awards ceremony on Thursday (AP) They included articles about his relationship with former girlfriend Chelsy Davy, a discussion with his brother about meeting with Princess Dianas former butler, and allegations that he had smoked cannabis. A further 115 articles were in his claim, which may have been the subject of a further trial. Last month, Harry threatened to pursue a second trial regarding the remaining articles, after only the sample of 33 were selected for the trial last year. However, Mr Sherborne confirmed on Friday that MGN had offered to settle the claim, saying the company will pay Harry a substantial additional sum by way of damages as well as his legal costs. The court had previously found that phone hacking became widespread and habitual at MGN titles in the late 1990s and was practised even to some extent during the Leveson Inquiry into press standards in 2011. David Sherborne speaking to the media outside of the Rolls Building in central London on Friday (PA) In the latest ruling, Mr Justice Fancourt said the publisher should pay so-called generic legal costs to the more than 100 people currently involved in the legal action. At a hearing last month, the High Court in London heard that the group of people who sued the Mirror publisher were seeking payment of 1,976,660 from MGN towards the legal costs of bringing generic allegations to court. In December, the duke said his case against MGN was a great day for truth, as well as accountability and called on the police to investigate the publisher of the Daily Mirror, Sunday Mirror and The People. The latest development in Harrys ongoing legal battle against the tabloid media comes just days after his flying visit to the UK to reunite with his father, who announced his cancer diagnosis on Monday. However, after travelling from the US to London within 24 hours of the news, the duke reportedly met with the King at Clarence House for less than an hour on Tuesday. He returned to his home in California the following day without having seen his estranged brother Prince William. Prince Harry arriving at Clarence House on Tuesday (Reuters) The siblings have endured a well-publicised fractured relationship in recent years, following Harry and his wife Meghans decision to step back as senior royals in January 2020 and leave for the US. In the wake of the move, multiple grievances were then shared by the couple as to their alleged treatment at the hands of the royal family. Harrys case against MGN was heard alongside similar claims brought by actor Michael Turner, who is known professionally as Michael Le Vell and is most famous for playing Kevin Webster in Coronation Street, actress Nikki Sanderson and Fiona Wightman, the ex-wife of comedian Paul Whitehouse. Claims brought by Ms Sanderson and Ms Wightman were dismissed by Mr Justice Fancourt because they were made too late, despite the judge finding that some of their complaints were proved. An MGN spokesperson said: We welcomed Decembers judgment that gave the business the necessary clarity to move forward from events that took place many years ago. Where historical wrongdoing took place, we apologise unreservedly, have taken full responsibility and paid compensation. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Prince Harry has said he would continue his mission to bring change to the British press after Mirror Group Newspapers settled his outstanding lawsuit. The Duke of Sussex settled the remaining parts of his phone hacking claim against Mirror Group Newspapers. His lawyer told the court that Prince Harry had won further substantial damages after the company accepted an offer to settle the claim. It comes after a judge ruled in December that Prince Harrys phone had been hacked to an extent by MGN, and awarded him 140,600 in damages. Prince Harry (AFP or Licensors) In a statement read by his lawyer David Sherborne he said: Everything we said was happening at Mirror Group was in fact happening, and indeed far worse as the Court ruled in its extremely damning judgement, He also launched another attack on Piers Morgan, the former editor of the Daily Mirror. In light of all this, we call again for the authorities to uphold the rule of law and to prove that no one is above it. That includes Mr Morgan, who as editor, knew perfectly well what was going on, as the judge held, his statement said. His contempt for the courts ruling and his continued attacks ever since demonstrate why it was so important to obtain a clear and detailed judgment. Since stepping down from royal duties in March 2020 and moving to California with his American wife Meghan, the British royal has made it his mission to rid the British press of the senior executives and editors he accuses of abusing their power to spread lies and unlawfully intrude into peoples lives. As I said back in December, our mission continues. I believe in the positive change it will bring for all of us. It is the very reason why I started this, and why I will continue to see it through to the end. A further 115 articles were in his claim, which may have been the subject of a further trial. However, the dukes lawyer David Sherborne confirmed on Friday that a settlement had been reached, with the publisher due to make an interim payment of 400,000. The court had previously found that phone hacking became widespread and habitual at MGN titles in the late 1990s and was practised even to some extent during the Leveson Inquiry into press standards in 2011. In the latest ruling, Mr Justice Fancourt said the publisher should pay so-called generic legal costs to the more than 100 people currently involved in the legal action. The judge said: On the generic issues, there can be little doubt that the claimants were successful. In this unusual case, justice is only done by awarding the claimants their costs of the generic issues. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A blanket of snow is set to fall upon parts of the UK as the Met Office forecasts wintry showers this week as temperatures may plunge as low as -10C. There are currently 11 weather warnings in place this week as heavy rain, snow and ice are all expected to descend upon the country. Up to 20cm of snow could settle on higher ground as a band of cold air pushed north on Thursday. Click here for live updates on the weather. A blanket of snow is set to fall upon parts of the UK on Thursday (PA Wire) A yellow weather warning for snow warning was issued for East Midlands, East of England, North East England, North West England, Wales, West Midlands, and Yorkshire & Humber on Thursday. Yellow warnings will continue across most of the UK on Friday and Scotland on Saturday with the Met Office urging people to be cautious. A snow and ice warning is in place across northern Scotland from 3pm today until 6pm tomorrow with expected travel disruption and a likelihood that communities could become cut off due to snowfall. A snow warning remains in place across southern Scotland until 3pm today after snowfall swept across the country yesterday, 10cm of snow was measured by the Met Office in Kirkwall, Orkney, on Thursday, while 9cm was recorded in Bingley, West Yorkshire. The forecaster said a whole day of snow could lead to some disruption, with power cuts and travel delays possible. A band of rain, sleet, and increasingly snow, will push north on Thursday bringing up to 2cm snow at lower-levels, 2-5cm on ground above 200m, and perhaps as much as 10-20cm above 400m, the Met Office said. Snow has coated the Peak District on Thursday morning (PA) The Met Office issued amber weather warnings for snow for parts of northern England and North Wales on Thursday. Up to 25cm of snow is forecast across the Peak District and the southern Pennines, with a warning in force from noon until 6pm. A separate warning for snow and ice is in place between 8am and 3pm across North Wales and Shropshire. Flintshire council announced that all schools would be closed within the county, while another six schools in neighbouring Gwynedd were also closed. Two amber warnings for snow were issued on Thursday (Met Office ) The Met Office said an amber warning means travel delays on roads were likely; public transport vehicles and cars could be stranded; power cuts were possible; rail and air travel delays were likely and rural communities stood a good chance of being cut off temporarily. In the area covered by the snow and ice warning, the Met Office said untreated pavements and cycle paths could be impassable. Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Chris Almond said: While the early part of this week will see some rain, at times heavy, gradually sinking southwards, theres an increased signal for wintry hazards as we move through the week as cold air from the north moves over the UK. Its from Thursday that the snow risk becomes more potentially impactful, as mild air attempts to move back in from the south, bumping into the cold air and increasing the chance of snow developing on the leading edge. There are yellow snow and ice warnings in place across Scotland today (Met Office) Thursdays weather warnings extend into Friday morning as disruption from snow is expected to continue until 6am. On Monday, a yellow weather warning remains in parts of Scotland until 9pm with a potential for 120-170 mm in the wettest areas. The Met Office said there is a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded, which may result in damage to buildings. Disruption from snow and ice is likely to continue in northern Scotland on Saturday (Met Office ) UK five day forecast Today: Wintry showers continuing in the far north, with a band of rain and mainly hill snow across central areas moving northwards through the day. Cloudier in the south with some showers, these locally heavy. Mild in the south, colder elsewhere Tonight: Rain and hill snow persisting across north and east Scotland. Elsewhere, patchy cloudy with some showers or longer spells of rain. Fog patches may develop underneath the clearest spells. Saturday: Rain and some snow persisting in the far north, mostly over higher ground. Occasional brighter interludes in the south once any fog clears, with showers, these mostly in the west. Outlook for Sunday to Tuesday: Often cloudy through the period with showers or longer spells of rain. Some bright or sunny intervals developing, most likely on Tuesday. Breezy along the coasts with temperatures around average. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The government has been warned the UK risks becoming a back door to cyber and other national security threats as foreign companies snap up British firms. Checks are not keeping pace with growing threats from countries like Russia, a powerful group of MPs says. They call for ministers to be notified of proposed investments which would affect media freedom, access to the sensitive data of individual, cybersecurity and critical supply chains. MPs have attacked the proposed UAE-backed takeover of the Telegraph newspaper group, expressing concerns about foreign state ownership and warning that it is impossible to separate sheikh and state. Liam Byrne, the chair of the Commons Business and Trade sub-committee, said it was vital that we do not let our country become a back door through which our adversaries acquire capabilities that imperil the collective security of either us or our NATO Allies. The report is published as Rishi Sunak branded clearly ridiculous Russian President Vladimir Putins claim that his invasion of Ukraine was a result of Nato expansion. The warning comes in the committees submission to the government ahead of reforms to the UKs investment-screening regime. Under the National Security and Investment (NSI) Act, this allows ministers to block purchases of or investment in firms in strategic industries on national security grounds. The submission warns the UK is facing a surge of investment from countries classed as dictatorships as well as new threats from China and Russia. With so many transactions ministers risk losing sight of the wood for the trees" and missing key transactions with security implications, they say. Both the US and the EU have recently announced tougher investment checks. MPs also warned the lack of an explicit definition of national security was creating confusion. MPs also condemn part of the Act as a fundamental roadblock to scrutiny because it prohibits telling Parliament how government decisions are made. Mr Byrne said: It is vital that Parliament is given proper oversight of the decisions made by ministers, so we can assure the House of Commons that the decisions made on investment screening are sound decisions. Right now, the truth is we cannot give that assurance, because ministers do not have the legal power to share the information we need to check decisions. That risks making a nonsense of parliamentary oversight of our economic security. That is something we simply cannot afford to go on. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Business secretary Kemi Badenoch has spoken of her frustration at reports she is pitching for Rishi Sunaks job in a 4,000 word interview. Ms Badenoch told plotters working to oust the prime minister from office to stop stirring last month, before reports that she was in a Tory Whatsapp group called Evil Plotters. She also refused to rule out another tilt at the top job, after standing to lead the party in wake of Boris Johnsons departure. In a new interview with the Times, she praised Mr Sunaks stability as a leader, before complaining that if Im abroad making a trade deal, they say Im on manoeuvres because Im distancing myself from the government. But if Im here making a speech, somehow Im on manoeuvres too. In the wide-ranging interview she also said snotty, middle-class north Londoners she met at university were one reason she was a Tory. One of the things that drove me insane was how they talked about Africa. So high-minded: We need to help Africans These stupid lefty white kids didnt know what they were talking about. And that instinctively made me think, These are not my people. She also revealed she almost died in a flash flood in her constituency last year. She said: I always used to think, How do people die in flash floods? But at the time the water came from nowhere. And there was just a slight dip in the road and suddenly, all the electrics went off. We got out of the car. The water was thick and strong and fast. We were wading, waist deep, and it was pitch-black. I had heels on! The car got written off. There could have been a by-election, she added. She also hit out at portrayals of her as a puppet of Michael Gove as if I have no thoughts and no opinions of my own. She said their relationship was not what it used to be, but hes somebody I have to work with following reports he had a relationship with a friend of hers. Business secretary Kemi Badenoch (Getty) She also said death threats towards her had intensified since Nadine Dorriess book The Plot, on Mr Johnsons downfall. If you get the unhelpful coalition of mental health issues and propensity to violence, then you read the Nadine Dorries conspiracy theory and decide you want to kill someone, its very, very nasty, she said. Last month Ms Badenoch warned the Tory party it could not keep treating prime ministers as disposable, as she said she was extremely frustrated at the speculation over her future. At the time Johnson ally Ms Dorries accused her of pursuing her leadership ambitions, despite the denials. On Ms Badenochs call for the plotters to shut up, Ms Dorries said: She should take her own advice. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Rachel Reeves has come under fire over Labours 28bn green spending u-turn, with a BBC presenter asking: Dont you want to think big any more? The shadow chancellor was taken to task after she and Sir Keir Starmer finally confirmed the spending pledge had been stood down. Instead, Ms Reeves and the Labour leader unveiled a much less ambitious set of measures, which will cost 23.7bn over the partys first five years in power if it wins the next election. After weeks of flip-flopping, with Sir Keir backing the original 28bn a year figure as recently as Tuesday, the party blamed the Conservatives for crashing the economy as it downsized its plans. Rachel Reeves and Keir Starmer have scaled back their original green spending plans (Getty) BBC Radio 4 Today programme presenter Mishal Husain grilled Ms Reeves on Friday morning, asking her: Dont you want to think big any more? Imagine if Labour in 1945 had thought about health and rolled back from founding the NHS in the way that you have diluted your single biggest policy pledge. But Ms Reeves insisted that, despite scaling back the funding, Labours so-called green prosperity plan will be transformational for our economy, for jobs and for bills. And she insisted that Labour is determined to deliver the plan. Ms Reeves said: People can see that since the Conservatives crashed the economy, things have changed. That means weve had to update our plans. What weve got now is an ambitious plan for decarbonizing the economy which are all affordable within our fiscal rules. But her clash with Ms Husain came just moments after she was grilled by BBC Breakfast presenter Charlie Stayt over the policy. Why should anyone believe the things you say about your plans, when you are prepared, if the circumstances require it, to just do other things? he asked. He added: It is very hard to know what we can believe. The exchanges followed a Thursday press conference in which Labour drastically scaled back its flagship economic policy ahead of this years election. The Conservatives had seized on the original 28bn a year figure as a key attack line, claiming Labour would ultimately have to raise taxes to meet the unfunded spending spree. The partys Warm Homes Plan, a 6bn package of measures to improve energy efficiency, is set to be one of the casualties of the climbdown with Labour confirming that it will now take longer than originally estimated, with five million homes now set to be upgraded during the first five years. But it comes alongside plans to extend the windfall tax on oil and gas companies to the end of the next parliament, with the energy profits levy rising to 78%. The Labour leader insisted the party in power would still retain its mission to achieve clean power by 2030, stressing that it could still be achieved. Ms Reeves denied she had bullied her party leader into the climbdown and reiterated her vow to become the UKs first green chancellor. She again denied a behind-the-scenes rift with Sir Keir on Friday, saying they work together every single day and she has a strong relationship with Keir. The scaling back of the pledge has drawn condemnation from unions, environmental groups, Labour grandees and MPs. Former Labour minister Lord Blunkett said the PR, the timing of the U-turn couldnt have been worse and he hoped lessons have been learned. And ex-shadow minister Barry Gardiner warned Labour now risked being so bland that you stand for nothing. Rishi Sunak said Labours flagship economic policy was now in tatters (PA Wire) Science minister Andrew Griffith said Labour has "got a lot of explaining to do" for u-turning on the 28bn a year green investment pledge, but added that the plan would have been "foolish". He told Times Radio: Rachel Reeves ran off to the US, was impressed by the idea of spending lots of public money, taxpayers money, on plans that they hadnt costed, hadnt put together properly. And the fact that those plans are now unravelling, just shows how foolish it would be and how expensive for taxpayers, were they to get into power. Rishi Sunak attacked the party as well, with the prime minister saying Labours flagship economic policy was now in tatters. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Secretary General of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation Organization (PABSEC) Asaf Hajiyev has sent a congratulatory letter to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on the occasion of his confident victory in the extraordinary presidential election, Trend reports. Will be updated The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Alabama is considering legislation that would make it increasingly difficult to cast an absentee ballot. SB1 passed a state senate committee with a vote of 7 to 3 on Wednesday. The bill is sponsored by Republican State Senator Garlan Gudger of Cullman. If it passes, the legislation will make it illegal to order, request, pre-fill, obtain or deliver an absentee ballot application, will require applicants to submit their own applications and will establish criminal penalties for violations. Any person who violates the measure could be charged with a misdemeanour crime and any person who receives payment for doing so could be found guilty of a class C felony. A third party who knowingly does so could receive up to 10 years in prison and a class C felony charge. Any person who knowingly pays a third party to submit their absentee ballot could receive a class B felony charge, which is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Still, if voters need help filling out their ballots, they may be assisted by a family member, resident of their household, the office of the Secretary of State, a judge in their county, or an elections manager. Phil Stokel pets Finn as dog owner Jean Palmer votes at Christ the King Parish (REUTERS) There are additional exceptions if the person voting is blind, disabled or cannot read or write. The legislation also would not impact military who are stationed overseas. The bottom line is that it is illegal for someone to pay or receive money when theyre collecting ballots or putting in applications, Mr Gudger told reporters, according to the Alabama Reflector. This is not the ballot. This is the ballot application. The American Civil Liberties Union has strongly voiced opposition to the bill. With several organisations providing services to seniors, students, or people who are homebound, this bill prevents their work to ensure and expand access to the ballot, the civil rights organisation said in a statement. Criminalising assistance that provides access to the voting process to others limits participation for Alabamas most vulnerable citizens. The bill would become effective immediately if signed into law by Alabama Republican Governor Kay Ivey. It is the latest in a series of measures Republicans have taken to restrict access to voting. Last year, at least 32 states introduced legislation to restrict voting by limiting how voters could register, stay on the voter rolls or vote as compared to existing state law, according to the Brennan Center, an organisation that tracks the legislation. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Prince Harry flew more than 5,000 miles (8,000 kilometers) to see his father after King Charles III was diagnosed with cancer. But Harry did not see his estranged brother, William, during a visit that lasted scarcely 24 hours. The royal brothers remain emotionally and physically an ocean apart. British media published photos of Harry at Heathrow Airport on Wednesday afternoon, just a day after he arrived at the same airport on a flight from Los Angeles. He appeared headed back to life in California after a U.K. visit in which he spent less than an hour with his father at Clarence House, the kings London home. William, meanwhile, returned to public duties for the first time since his wife, Kate, was admitted to a London hospital Jan. 16 for abdominal surgery. She spent almost two weeks at the private London Clinic and is recovering at home. William handed out medals to notables and local heroes at a Windsor Castle ceremony in the morning and was due to attend a charity dinner on Wednesday evening for Londons air ambulance service. Images from the day are more grist for the popular British media tropes: dutiful William, flyaway Harry. Behind that simplistic summary are two royal brothers bonded in bereavement by the death of their mother, Princess Diana, when William was 15 and Harry was 12 whose paths have diverged dramatically. While William, the heir, was destined from birth to be king, Harry, who is fifth in line to the throne behind his brother and Williams three children, has often appeared to struggle with the more ambiguous role of spare. He chose Spare as the title of his 2023 memoir, which recounted a lifetime of sibling grievances from William getting the bigger bedroom at Balmoral Castle to a ferocious argument in which Harry claims William ripped his necklace and knocked him down onto a dog bowl. In the book, Harry alleged that the British media treated him and his wife, Meghan also known as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex as villains compared with virtuous William and Kate, and accused palace officials of lying to protect his elder brother. The Sussexes cited the medias racist treatment of Meghan, who is biracial, and a lack of support from the palace as reasons for their decision in 2020 to quit royal duties and move to the U.S. In an explosive interview with Oprah Winfrey in 2021, the couple portrayed the royal family as indifferent to Meghans mental health struggles, and suggested an unnamed family member had made a racist comment to Harry before the birth of their son, Archie. Harry described his relationship with William as space at the moment. The brothers interactions since then have been formal, and brief. They were seen temporarily putting their fraught relationship aside to attend the funeral of their grandfather Prince Philip at Windsor Castle in 2021. The pair did not walk side-by-side behind Philips coffin, but were pictured chatting and walking together after the service. In September 2022 the brothers walked side-by-side behind the coffin of their grandmother Queen Elizabeth II before she lay in state. William later said it had evoked memories of doing the same at Princess Dianas funeral in 1997. Harry last traveled to the U.K. for his fathers coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey in May. He was assigned to sit two rows behind his brother, arrived at the abbey alone and left alone. The brothers were not seen speaking or even acknowledging each other. Harrys campaign to tame Britains tabloid press has also placed him at odds with his relatives. He broke from the royal family tradition of not engaging in litigation by filing several lawsuits against the news media for hacking his phone and other privacy violations. Harry claimed in court filings that Charles had directed palace staff to order him to drop his litigation because it was bad for the family. He also said William had secretly settled his own hacking claims against Rupert Murdochs publications for a huge sum of money in 2020. In Spare, Harry claims that their father implored them after Philip's funeral: Please, boys dont make my final years a misery. Royal biographer Sally Bedell Smith said rifts within the royal family would take more than a single visit to heal. I dont think we should engage in too much magical thinking about this, said Bedell Smith, author of Prince Charles: Passions and Paradoxes of an Improbable Life. There are some very, very deep, hurts (Harry) has inflicted on the family, she said. But, she added: King Charles, by nature he wants to heal not only the world, but I think his impulse would be to try and heal the family. ___ Associated Press writers Brian Melley and Sylvia Hui contributed to this story. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Adam Montgomerys defence has pinned the blame on his estranged wife Kayla Montgomery for the death of his five-year-old daughter. Montgomery, 34, is facing trial in Manchester, New Hampshire, over the December 2019 murder of his daughter Harmony Montgomery. In a surprise move shortly after jury selection concluded on Tuesday, Montgomery said he intended to plead guilty to two lesser charges of abuse of a corpse and falsifying information in connection with Harmonys killing. On Thursday, Montgomerys lawyer gave a dramatic preview of the line of defence they will be pursuing throughout the trial. During the opening statement, attorney James Brooks claimed that it was Kayla Montgomery, his clients estranged wife and Harmonys stepmother, who last saw the little girl alive. Mr Brooks went on to say that Kayla Montgomery had created a web of lies to put the blame on her husband and that Adam Montgomery had merely agreed to destroy evidence to protect his wife and keep custody of their young children. Hes not innocent here. He and Kayla moved the body to keep it hidden. You should find him guilty on those charges, Mr Brooks told jurors. Adam Montgomery did not kill Harmony ... Kayla Montgomery was the last person to see Harmony alive and knows how Harmony died. He said Harmony, Adam Montgomery, Kayla Montgomery and the couples two infants had been living in a car after being evicted from their home in December 2019. The family was living in their car and Montgomery was doing odd jobs in order to earn quick money, Mr Brooks claimed. It was during one of those instances in which Kayla Montgomery was left alone with the children in the car that Harmony died, Mr Brooks alleged. The prosecution had previously suggested during their opening statements that Harmony died after her father repeatedly hit her in the head because she had soiled herself. The state argued that Kayla Montgomery didnt come forward with information sooner because she was being abused and terrorised by her husband. Harmony did not die in that intersection you saw yesterday, Mr Brooks told the court. Both Adam Montgomery and Kayla found Harmonys body in the middle of the night after he returned from work at Colonial Village Aparmtents. The defence said Kayla Montgomery did not tell Adam Montgomery how Harmony died, but that he went on with a plan to destroy Harmonys remains in order to protect his family. The couple then put off the decision to dispose of the body because they didnt know what to do, Mr Brooks said. He had to protect [Kayla]. He had to protect their children, Mr Brooks said. If anyone found out, her children would be taken. The defence then introduced a prison letter allegedly written by Kayla Montgomery after she was arrested on theft charges for colleting welfare benefits for the missing child between December 2019 and June 2021. In the letter, she allegedly wrote the things she wanted in exchange for betraying Adam. Among the things she reportedly requested were immunity from everything, all charges she was facing ... maybe ankle bracelent, or probation or drug rehab, kids in my life, not lose custody and have kids live with me. She also wrote of her longing to be alone with him, one more time, Mr Brooks said. To kiss, to make love. She did not write of any fear ... not to finally be safe from Adam. Close Adam Montgomery convicted of second-degree murder of daughter Harmony The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The mother of slain five-year-old Harmony Montgomery spoke to reporters outside a courtroom after the little girls father was convicted of her murder. Jurors convicted Adam Montgomery on all charges following a gruelling trial which took place more than four years on from when Harmony was last seen alive in 2019. Authorities failed to search for the missing child who was known to protective services for more than two years after she went missing. Kayla Montgomery testified that her husband struck the Harmony several times after she had a bathroom accident. She testified that, after killing her, the family drove to a Burger King. She fed her two young sons and placed a sandwich on Harmonys lap without realising she was dead. After the defendant repeatedly struck Harmony. After he put the blanket over her. After she moaned. After the strange crying moaning stopped. After you did drugs and after the car died, you thought she was sleeping under that blanket, the prosecutor said. Why did you think that she may be sleeping after Adam repeatedly struck her? Because she would usually just go to sleep after, Kayla answered. The little girls remains were hidden in a ceiling vent at a shelter where the family stayed after her death. Montgomery snuck the remains into his workplace freezer, before disposing of them in March 2020. Harmonys remains have never been found. After the verdict was handed down, Harmonys mother Crystal Sorey told reporters she was grateful that it was over but vowed that she and authorities would not stop fighting to find her daughters body. She also slammed Montgomery as a coward for failing to attend any of his trial. In a press conference, Manchester Police Chief Allen Aldenberg also vowed to continue to push to find Harmony. Were still going to find her, Chief Aldenberg told reporters as he choked back tears. This girl deserves better than the life that she had. This is never about winning or losing, this is about a five-year-old girl who was killed by her father. And I cant think of a worse crime. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A Texas lawyer was sentenced to 180 days in jail after he pleaded guilty to slipping an abortion-inducing drug into his pregnant wifes drinks. As part of a plea deal, Mason Herring, 39, pleaded guilty to two counts: injury to a child and assault of a pregnant person. However, in 2022, he had initially been charged with felony assault to induce abortion reportedly the first ever to have been accused of such a crime in the state of Texas. He was accused of putting Cyrux in his wifes water a drug that contains misoprostol, a pill thats often used in combination with mifepristone to induce an abortion, according to Planned Parenthood. His wife is now seeking a divorce and the couple have been estranged since early 2022, according to KTRK. Speaking to the court, Catherine Herring disapproved of her soon-to-be exs sentence, the outlet reported: I do not believe that 180 days is justice for attempting to kill your child seven separate times. She continued, For two years, my husband has overtly denied this assault, and Im grateful today that he has finally admitted to his guilt. The pairs child was born 10 weeks prematurely, weighing just three pounds, the outlet said. She told the New York Times that she absolutely believes that the poisoning contributed to their daughters premature birth. Herrings attorney, Dan Codgell, called the plea agreement and sentence reasonable: Its a sad situation and Mason has accepted his responsibility. The outlet noted that a private lab confirmed the drug in Ms Herrings beverage and that she offered to provide video evidence of him mixing a powder into her water. At the time Herring was charged in 2022, assistant district attorney of Harris County Anthony Osso, said, On the morning of March 17, the defendant, Mr. Herring, goes by the house to bring breakfast and asks if he can bring her water in bed. The husband is reportedly telling her she needs to stay hydrated. She thought it was odd, Mr Osso said. She thought the water was cloudy. She questioned him a little bit, but, nonetheless, did drink the water, and then he leaves and takes that cup. The pregnant woman suddenly became ill and was taken to urgent care as doctors tried to figure out what had caused her to become sick. Suspicious, Ms Herring reportedly set up cameras around their home, although her husband had moved out. Come April, she found Cyrux in the garbage can. Days later, cameras caught Herring putting powder into her glass, Mr Osso explained, prompting her to contact police. Herring was ordered to begin his sentence on 1 March. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The parents of murdered tech CEO Pava LaPere have called for a change in the law on convicted rapists. Ms LaPere, 26, was found dead on the rooftop of her Baltimore apartment complex in September last year, three days after she was killed. Her body was found near a brick, believed to be the murder weapon, and a pair of red shoes thought to be hers. Jason Dean Billingsley, 32, was arrested in connection with Ms LaPeres death, two days after her body was found. Following his arrest, officials revealed he was already being tracked by investigators prior to Ms LaPeres death, with police believing he was responsible for a rape, arson, and attempted murder days earlier that left two adults and a child injured. Investigators also found he had pleaded guilty to sexual assault in 2015 and was sentenced to 30 years, but 16 years were suspended meaning he only had to serve 14. He only served seven, though, being released in October 2022 because he earned enough diminution credits for good behaviour, something that should have never have happened, Mayor Brandon Scott said at the time. Ms LaPeres parents, Frank and Caroline LaPere, have since sought to echo Mayor Scotts words, testifying before Maryland lawmakers on Tuesday to push for a law that would bar diminution credits for those convicted of first-degree rape and most violent sex crimes. Pava LaPere was the CEO of tech company EcoMaps Technologies (Facebook/Pava LaPere) The couple said bill HB 301, also known as the Pava Marie LaPere Act, will help to ensure that no other family will experience what they have gone through. Let us work together as a community and as a legislature, Frank LaPere said. A mother should never have to nurse herself back to health after a horrific act of repeat violence, a sibling should not lose his best friend, and a father should kiss his daughter good night and try not to cry himself to sleep through avoidable loss. We cannot allow the system that failed Pava to continue, he added. She is physically gone from the world, her vision and dreams will still live on. Ms LaPere was the CEO of tech company EcoMaps Technologies, which is described as a custom platform builder for companies, according to its website. The 26-year-old was a rising star in Baltimores tech scene and was featured on Forbes magazines 30 under 30 list for the social impact she was making on the industry. Pava did very well in her short life, so now its time for someone else to carry the torches that she carried, her mother said on Tuesday. One of them was for equity. The other was for justice. HB 301 is still in the very early stages of the legislative process and has a long way to go before it can be signed into law. If passed as it is now, it would go into effect in October. Jason Dean Billingsley has previously been convicted for assault and sex offence charges (Baltimore Police Department) However, the bill has come up against some criticism, with critics arguing that it does not address the issue of reoffending and that it only delays violent offenders from being released. Nonetheless, Maryland senate president Bill Ferguson said on Tuesday that he believes there will be enough support to change the law. I think, particularly for first-degree rape situations, there is very good reason to have extra eyes on the diminution credits and make sure that something like what happened this past year cant happen again, Ferguson said. Another hearing has not yet been scheduled. In September, the Baltimore district attorney said his office intends to seek a life sentence without the possibility of parole for Billingsley. My wish is that we can give the family and community a sense of closure, Commissioner Worley said. Were going to put this violent repeat criminal offender in jail, where he belongs. Lets work together and make sure he stays there. Billingsley is due for a hearing on Zoom in March, according to online court records. Authorities said they are not aware of any connections between the suspect and Ms LaPere. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A manhunt is under way after a Tennessee police officer was shot dead and another was wounded during a traffic stop. Authorities in eastern Tennesse said warrants have been issued for 42-year-old Kenneth Dehart, who is wanted on suspicion of first degree murder, attempted first degree murder and being a felon in possession of a firearm after the Thursday evening shooting, which took place at a traffic stop in Maryville. Blount County Sheriff James Lee Berrong said deputy Greg McCowan was killed in the shooting after he and deputy Shelby Eggers initiated a traffic stop on an SUV in the 4900 block of Sevierville Road just before 8.30pm on Thursday. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) spokesperson said Dehart began shooting after he would not cooperate with deputies during the traffic stop and refused to exit the vehicle. A stun gun was then deployed with no effect, the TBI said. At some point during the encounter, DeHart produced a gun and fired shots, striking both deputies, the agency added. A manhunt is underway for Kenneth Dehart (The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation ) Ms Eggers was shot in the leg and returned fire, Sheriff Berrong said. Her injuries are not thought to be life-threatening. She was transported to hospital, but has since been released and is recovering at home, the sheriffs office said. McCowan was also transported to an area hospital where he later died. Police are now searching for Dehart after he fled the scene. He was last seen in the Wildwood area of the city of Maryville, the TBI said on social media. Multiple law enforcement agencies are involved in the manhunt for Dehart, who authorities said should be considered armed and dangerous and shouldnt be approached if spotted. An official shows a picture of the killed deputy, Greg McCowan, during a press conference (Blount County Sheriff's Office) A statewide Blue Alert has been issued for Dehart and he has been added to the TBI Most Wanted list. Following the shooting, Sheriff Berrong announced the officers death during a Thursday evening press conference, saying its the hardest thing Ive ever done. We had an officer killed tonight on a traffic stop, another female officer was shot in the leg, she returned fire, the sheriff explained. Im so sorry that weve lost a young man. I talked to his family earlier. I apologised for not protecting him. He added that a $10,000 reward has been offered for information that leads to Deharts arrest. He was described as driving a silver Lexus and is believed to now be on foot. The sheriffs office is asking that residents in the Wildwood area check outdoor security and doorbell cameras for footage that may show possible suspicious people or activity in connection with the shooting. We will get this man off the streets of East Tennessee and put him behind bars, the sheriff said. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Idahos longest-serving death row inmate is pleading for another clemency hearing after the previous one ended in a tie vote yet the state governor has already declared he has zero intention of taking any action that would halt or delay his execution. Thomas Eugene Creech, 73, was sentenced to death over four decades ago after he was convicted of killing fellow prison inmate, 23-year-old David Dale Jensen, by beating him to death with a sock filled with batteries and stomping on his face and neck, the Ada County Prosecutors office said in a news release. Creech, who was already serving four life sentences at the time, pleaded guilty to murdering Jensen. The prosecutors office branded Mr Creech as a serial killer, who has had five murder convictions, one in California, one in Oregon and three in Idaho. Prosecutors also suspect him in the killing of an additional six victims and he has allegedly admitted to killing at least 40 people. A state parole board voted 3-3 last month on a request sent by Creech to have his sentence changed to life without parole after one of its members recused himself from the case. Now, Creech is asking for a new hearing after it ended in a tie, according to The Associated Press. In Idaho, a majority of the board must vote in favour of clemency in order for the recommendation to be sent to the governor, yet the state rules say that the governor can also overrule these recommendations. The governor of Idaho, Brad Little, said in a statement last week that it is his duty to ensure that lawful criminal sentences are carried out. As governor, I have zero intention of taking any action that would halt or delay Creechs execution, he said. His lawful and just sentence must be carried out as ordered by the court. Justice has been delayed long enough. Creech was put on death row in 1981 after beating a fellow inmate to death (Idaho Department of Corrections) Creechs attorneys have argued that having one board member absent was unfair, as an inmate would have had to convince a majority to get a recommendation, but instead, he had to try and convince two-thirds, the outlet said. One member should have stepped aside, or another one should have been appointed to fill the seventh place, they said. Last month, the prosecutors office said that Creech is also suspected in the 1974 murder of Daniel A Walker in California. Creech has not been charged in connection to the case. Deborah A. Czuba, supervising attorney for the Capital Habeas Unit of the Federal Defender Services of Idaho which represents Creech, said that the state has not provided evidence for declaring Creech guilty of Walkers killing and that the claim led to his clemency being denied. The commision was told that a vote for clemency would mean Mr Creech got away with another murder, she said. The inflammatory allegation was patently false. The investigation into Mr Walkers murder is still open. But the damage was done. In the commissions eyes, Mr Creech was on the hook for a new crime. For years, Creech has stunned prosecutors and judges for years due to the severity of his crimes and confessions. In 1993, former US Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day OConnor wrote in an opinion that Creechs case could not be more chilling. His clemency hearing also saw him being depicted as a sociopath with no regard for human life by Ada County deputy prosecutor Jill Longhurst, according to The Associated Press. However, his defence team has tried to show that Creech is a changed man, and the string of killings that have been connected to the death row inmate has been blown out of proportion. The Federal Defender Services of Idaho, which is representing Creech, said last month that statements that Mr Creech made to law enforcement officials decades ago under unclear circumstances and during a time period in which police officers from around the country were spoon-feeding Mr Creech information to try to clear cases based on the fantasy that he committed 50 murders, according to NBC. A video created to support his clemency also added Creech was remorseful and sorry for the crimes he committed, and if he could change it all he would. The video also included comments from a mental health clinician from the prison saying he was a model inmate and even an endorsement from the judge who sentenced him to death, saying that after 40 years on death row, executing him now would just be an act of vengeance. Seeking the death penalty in a capital case is not a decision that is taken lightly by any prosecutors office, the prosecutors office wrote in their January news release. The decision can be made only after a careful examination of the statutory factors as applied to the facts and circumstances. The facts and circumstances in Mr Creechs case warrant the death penalty to this day. An execution date for Creech has been scheduled for 28 February 2024, Idaho News 6 said. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Around eight minutes into his mammoth two-hour interview with Vladimir Putin, Tucker Carlson was forced to interrupt. "I beg your pardon. Can you tell us what period...? I'm losing track of where in history we are," said the former Fox News host, who had been listening to Putin's words with an expression of deepening vexation. "It was in the 13th century," said the Russian president matter-of-factly. The exchange was only one of many odd moments in Carlson's much-trailed meeting with the ex-KGB strongman, who has dominated his country's politics for more than two decades and is now virtually a dictator. Streamed for free on Carlson's website on Thursday evening, it was Putin's first interview with a Western journalist since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. Here are the key points of their strange, freewheeling, and occasionally comical encounter. Putin doesn't think Ukraine is a real country "Your basic education was in history, as I understand? If you don't mind, I will take only thirty seconds, or one minute, to give you a little historical background." That was how Vladimir Putin, speaking through an interpreter, kicked off what turned out to be a nearly 30-minute lecture on the intertwined history of Russia and Ukraine. His point? To portray Ukraine as a creation of imperialist powers with no identity of its own and no real claim to sovereignty. (Never mind that Russia itself was created by Eastern Europeans colonising vast swathes of Eurasia.) Starting with the election of Prince Rurik to the throne of Novgorod in 862 AD, he described how successive empires, including the Soviet Union, shaped the modern boundaries of Ukraine by transferring land from Poland, Hungary, Romania, and Crimea. "So," Putin concluded, "we have every reason to affirm that Ukraine is an artificial state that was shaped at Stalin's will." Putin calls Ukraine an artificial state shaped at Stalins will Carlson quickly pushed back, asking the president if he thought that Hungary had the right to take its land back from Ukraine, or that other nations have the right to return to their 17th-century borders. After a long pause, Putin replied that he wasn't sure but that, given the nature of Stalin's repressive regime, it would be "understandable" if they tried. He then told a personal anecdote about taking a road trip through the Soviet Union in the early 1980s and encountering Hungarian Ukrainians, who still spoke Hungarian and considered themselves Hungarians. At least, he clarified, he had never told Hungarian president Viktor Orban to his face that he could annex any part of Ukraine. Putin says it would be 'understandable' if Hungary annexed parts of Ukraine 'Stop supplying weapons and it will be over within weeks' Back in the present day, Putin had a simple demand for the United States: stop supplying weapons to Ukraine. Do that, the president proclaimed, and the whole war "will be over within weeks". That rather ominous statement came in response to Carlson asking whether Putin was doing everything he could to find a diplomatic solution, and why he couldn't simply get on the phone to Joe Biden to end the conflict which Carlson has repeatedly described as a proxy war between the US and Russia. "What's to work out? It's very simple," said Putin. "If you want to stop fighting, you need to stop supplying weapons... what's easier? Why would I call him? What should I talk him about? Or beg him for what? "'You are going to deliver such and such weapons to Ukraine oh, I'm afraid, please don't'? What is there to talk about?" Although Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky has insisted that his country is not losing the war, some experts are sceptical about his ability to retake the territory still occupied by Russia. After stunning the world by repulsing Russia's initial invasion, Ukraine's long-awaited counteroffensive has stalled, and future support from the US and the European Union is in limbo after objections from sceptical politicians. Putin claims Boris Johnson shot down peace attempts Throughout the interview, Putin insisted that Russia is willing to negotiate and that Ukraine and the USA, rather than the country that invaded Ukraine, are the main barriers to peace. As part of that, he referenced longstanding reports in Ukrainian and other media that a potential peace deal was scuppered in April 2022 by then British prime minister Boris Johnson. [Zelensky] put his signature and then he himself said, we were ready to sign it and the war would have been over long ago. However, Prime Minister Johnson came talk to us out of it, and we've missed that chance," Putin said. "Where is Mr Johnson now? And the war continues." Johnson himself has denied those claims, calling them "total nonsense" and "Russian propaganda". And while his opposition to negotiations with Putin is a matter of public record, the idea that he was the deciding factor in Ukraine's decision or that he shot down a peace deal that would otherwise have been viable is far from proven. No plans to release jailed US journalist Carlson's interview with Putin offered slim hope for Evan Gershkovich, an American journalist for The Wall Street Journal who has been imprisoned in Russia on charges of espionage for nearly a year. "I want to ask you directly," said Carlson, "without getting into the details of what happened, if as a sign of your decency you would be willing to release him to us, and we'll bring him back to the United States." After a long pause, and a heavy sigh, Putin refused. He claimed that Gershkovich was "caught red handed" receiving classified information, "and doing it covertly". He also suggested that Gershkovich was working for the US special services and was essentially controlled by the US authorities. The Journal has insisted that Mr Gershkovich is innocent and that his activities fell strictly under the umbrella of legitimate journalism. Carlson, a fellow journalist, nevertheless seemed at least somewhat sympathetic to Putin's framing, saying: "The guy's obviously not a spy, he's a kid. And maybe he was breaking your laws in some way, but he's not a super-spy." 'De-Nazification' means whatever we say it means Putin, alongside many Russian propogandists, has long claimed that Russia's invasion of Ukraine was about "de-Nazifying" the country. He repeated those claims at length in Thursday's interview. However, despite repeated probing from Carlson, he never quite managed to define exactly what "de-Nazification" would mean or why it justified an armed invasion. He described how some Ukrainian nationalists collaborated with the Nazi occupation during the Second World War, and claimed that the country remains a hotbed of neo-Nazism today. Putin repeats de-Nazification claim, meanders around Carlson questions (He did not mention the Soviet general Andrey Vlasov, who led a brigade of Russian collaborators against Stalin's forces, or the fact that Putin's Russia has served as an inspiration for numerous neo-Nazis in the US and Europe.) Hence, Putin claimed, Russia's war in Ukraine cannot end because such ideologies have not yet been stamped out, and nor has the Ukrainian government agreed to do so as part of a peace process. Carlson tried to push his pet topics, with little success One striking facet of the interview was how frequently Carlson, who was fired by Fox News last year numerous accusations of bigotry and misleading journalism, took the opportunity to push his particular hobby horses. Faced with a more or less unique opportunity to confront one of the most powerful men in the world, who is responsible for launching one of the bloodiest conflicts on European soil in decades, Carlson chose to quiz Putin about whether he was a "Christian leader" and other topics close to Carlson's heart. "Do you see the supernatural at work as you look out across what's happening in the world now? Do you see God at work? Do you ever think to yourself, 'these are forces that are not human'?" After a pause, Putin answered: "No, to be honest. I don't think so." At two points, Carlson a longtime Sinosceptic asked Putin about the rising danger of China to the US and other countries, such as asking if he was worried that developing countries were becoming "dominated" by Chinese influence. "We have heard these bogeyman stories before," said Putin. "China's foreign policy is not aggressive; its idea is always to look for compromise.... it is to your own detriment, Mr Tucker, that you are limiting cooperation with China." Carlson also frequently sought Putin's agreement on his belief that the US and other countries are no longer controlled by elected politicians, but by a deep state bureaucracy, or that Ukraine is effectively controlled by foreign interests. Putin, though, did not always play ball, saying that he believed Zelensky has the freedom to negotiate a peace deal, and that a change of opinion among US elites could support that. On one of these topics, at least, Putin was expansive: the threat of artificial intelligence and the prospect of using technology to create a new form of humanity. "Due to genetic researches, it is now possible to create a superhuman: a specialised human being, a genetically engineered athlete, scientist, military man.... "The time will come to reach an international agreement on how to regulate these things." A softball encounter with lots of agreement In advance of his interview, Carlson made the bold claim that not a "single Western journalist" had bothered to interview the Russian president since the conflict began nearly two years ago. He was quickly contradicted by the Kremlin itself, which said that many other reporters had asked and been turned down because of their supposed pro-Western bias. Carlson, meanwhile, was chosen because "he has a position which differs" from other English-language media. Indeed, Carlson has a long history of pro-Putin advocacy. In 2017, he asked: "Why is Vladimir Putin such a bad guy?" In 2019, he claimed the US should "take the side of Russia" in any conflict with Ukraine. Ever since, he has opposed American support for the war and defended Russia's conduct. Thursday's interview largely continued in that vein. Although Carlson sometimes tried to grill the Russian leader or hold him to account, there were also plenty of soft-serve questions and chummy exchanges. When Carlson asked Putin who he thought blew up the Nord Stream oil pipeline, which runs under the sea between Russia and Germany, the two men quickly agreed that it was the CIA or some other Nato agency. They also agreed that American support for Ukraine is destroying the international stature of the US dollar, and that Nato helped provoke the war by accepting Eastern European countries. (The question of why so many of Russias neighbours and near-neighbours felt they needed to join a defensive organisation was not one that Carlson troubled to ask.) Nor did Carlson spend much time pushing back on Putin's claims or challenging his decision to invade Ukraine in the first place. Perhaps, then, it was fitting that Putin was the one to end the interview. "Shall we end here, or is there anything else?" said the 71-year-old, after concluding his answer to a question. "No, I think that's great, murmured Carlson. Thank you, Mr President," Close Biden addresses special counsel classified documents report Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Joe Bidens lawyer called special counsel Robert Hurs report commenting in part on the presidents age and health off the rails and shabby on Sunday. An angry and animated Joe Biden previously hit back at the Republican prosecutors claim that his memory is faulty during a last-minute and at-times chaotic press conference on Thursday. The president hit out at parts of the report released earlier in the day by Justice Department special counsel Robert Hur into his handling of classified documents and became infuriated at a suggestion that he did not remember the year his late son, Beau Biden, died from brain cancer. On Friday, Kamala Harris joined the White House fight back, slamming the report as politically motivated, and saying she found details in it gratuitous, inaccurate and inappropriate. She said she has been privileged and proud to serve as vice president of the United States under Mr Biden, and said Mr Hurs remarks on Mr Bidens age and memory were gratuitous, inaccurate, and inappropriate. Mr Hurs report concluded that Mr Biden will not face charges for willfully holding onto documents after he left office as Barack Obamas vice president in January 2017. The report, which was delivered to Congress after many months of investigation and preparation, recommended no criminal charges for the incumbent president, even were he not protected by immunity from prosecution due to his current stature. However, the investigators painted a picture of a senile president with severe memory issues whose innocence was less clear than his supporters would have hoped, while not necessarily coming across to a potential jury as malicious or criminal. It stated that the materials included files on military policy in Afghanistan and handwritten notes on national security, also suggesting that Mr Biden would look like an elderly man with a poor memory to a jury if he were to be hit with criminal charges. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ali Asadov and newly appointed Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze had a telephone conversation, Trend reports, referring to the press service of the Azerbaijani Cabinet of Ministers. "Ali Asadov congratulated Irakli Kobakhidze on his appointment as Prime Minister of Georgia and wished him success in his future activities. During the conversation, the sides highly appreciated the development of friendly relations and mutually beneficial cooperation between Azerbaijan and Georgia in various spheres, expressed hope for further strengthening of strategic partnership," the press service of the Cabinet of Ministers reports. Stay up to date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Special Counsel Robert Hur has released the findings of his investigation into President Joe Bidens handling of classified documents. The investigation began in January 2023 after Mr Biden disclosed that his attorneys had found classified documents in the garage of his home in Delaware. Among the material found at the presidents home and former office in Washington DC, more than 30 documents or notebooks contained classified information of some kind. In his report, Mr Hur said that while Mr Biden willfully retained documents that contained sensitive information, he did not think he could be found guilty of a crime beyond a reasonable doubt and declined to bring charges. However, the report contained fierce criticisms of Mr Biden, namely that his memory was poor and had significant limitations. Mr Hur said the president failed to remember key dates and eras of his life including when he was vice president and when his son, Beau Biden, died. The report also contained several photos of the documents and where they were found around Mr Bidens home and office. Here are some of the images contained in the report: 1. Black notebooks containing sensitive information Notebooks seized from Bidens Delaware home office (DOJ) 2. Box containing a folder with information about Afghanistan Circled box in garage where Afghanistan documents found (DOJ) 3. A filing cabinet located at the presidents home in Delaware that contained sensitive documents File cabinet in Delaware home office (DOJ) 4. A box, found in Mr Bidens garage, containing classified documents Box found in garage of Bidens home (DOJ) 5. A folder marked Afganastan by the president A folder titled Afganastan found among Bidens belongings (DOJ) 6. The inside of a storage closet containing boxes of Senate documents, found in Mr Bidens garage Interior of Bidens garage storage closet containing Senate documents (DOJ) 7. A box containing notes where classified documents were found at the Penn Biden Center Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Joe Biden tried to brush off concerns about his mental fitness and memory on Thursday at an impromptu press conference but he made a glaring mistake that undermined his indignant defence of his abilities. In isolation, it was perhaps just another relatively minor moment of misspeaking for the president, but it came at exactly the wrong moment. He spoke to reporters on Thursday evening after the release of a special prosecutors report on the investigation into his handling of classified materials discovered at his home and workspace at a DC-area think-tank. The 388-page report itself did not indict the presidents character or indeed recommend any criminal charges be filed, but strongly called into question his ability to remember important details about his own life and time in the White House from 2009-2017 under Barack Obama. In one heartbreaking passage that spread like wildfire across Washington DC, the special counsels team, led by Robert Hur, even asserted that the president had been unable to recall even within several years, when his son [Beau Biden] died. Beau, the presidents eldest son and with political ambitions himself, died of brain cancer in 2015 aged 46. President Biden mixes up Mexico and Egypt while addressing hostage situation There were also references to Mr Biden being supposedly unable to remember the date range of his vice presidency. Two versions of Mr Biden emerged to fight those characterisations on Thursday. The first came about in a private meeting with House Democrats, where the president was described as energised as he angrily swore at Mr Hur and his teams conclusions: How the f*** could I forget the day my son died?! he was reported by The Washington Post as saying. Another version, still angry but more reserved, appeared at his press conference early in the evening. This version, though he sparred briefly with Foxs Peter Doocy, was absent the vigour of his clone; it was the same Mr Biden that reporters and Americans at large are accustomed to. Theres even reference that I dont remember when my son died how the hell dare he raise that? Mr Biden sternly said, his strongest moment of the night by far. And then there was the moment. The one that blew up political Twitter in the minutes and hours after Mr Bidens public appearance: his confusion of Egypt with Mexico, as he confidently declared Egypts Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to be Mexicos president and blamed him for not offering greater access to escape routes from the Gaza Strip for refugees fleeing Israels brutal siege. It was a painful moment to watch, and one that kicked a hornets nest among Mr Bidens Democratic detractors on social media. Even Democratic aides on Capitol Hill who defended Mr Bidens errant misstatement found themselves acknowledging the reach of the presidents latest gaffe. To put it simply: The Biden campaign needed one version of the president to emerge tonight; the fired-up Joe Biden who had been angry behind closed doors; who continues to exist in meetings with Congress but rarely emerges on the campaign trail. Instead, they got the latter; a president seemingly weary of endless attacks on his stamina and fitness but with no real way to counter them. As Mr Biden heads on to the campaign trail with greater frequency this spring and summer, he and his team need to capture that energy for the public at large. But as tonight showed, every time he steps behind a microphone, there is a reason to worry. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} President Joe Biden appeared to confuse Mexico with Egypt, in a press conference on Thursday called to refute allegations of his poor memory. The president made reference to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, saying: The president of Mexico did not want to open up the gate to allow humanitarian material to get in. I talked to him. I convinced to open the gate. I talked to Bibi [Benjamin Netenyahu] to open the gate on the Israeli side. Ive been pushing really hard, really hard to get humanitarian assistance into Gaza. There are a lot of innocent people who are starving, innocent people or in trouble and die, and its got to stop, number one. Number two... Im the guy that made the case that we have to do much more to increase the amount of material going in, including fuel, including other items. Ive been on the phone with Qataris. Ive been on the phone with the Egyptians. The fresh gaffe came as Mr Biden hit back at a Republican prosecutors claim that his memory is faulty, during the last-minute and at-times chaotic press conference. In parts of a report by Special Counsel Robert Hur, released earlier on Thursday, there was a suggestion that the president did not remember what year his late son, Beau Biden, had died from brain cancer. How the hell dare he raise that? Mr Biden said. However, Mr Biden was not alone in his unfortunate Middle-Eastern mistake, as pointed out by Democratic congressman Jared Moskowitz. Last week, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson appeared to confuse Iran with Israel while appearing live on Meet the Press. Let me be clear... we passed the support for Iran many months ago. Immediately after I became Speaker we set the necessary resources there. Oh the Irony about bad memory. Let me help him out. Iran: Bad. Israel: Good, Mr Moskowitz wrote. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was forced to abandon a visit to Gazas border to oversee aid deliveries because Israeli protesters were blocking shipments of food into the territory, according to the Israeli newspaper Haaretz. Mr Blinken has faced fierce criticism from humanitarian groups and European allies in recent days after the US froze funding for UNRWA, the largest aid agency on the ground in Gaza, at a time when hundreds of thousands of Palestinians are facing an escalating hunger crisis and risk of famine . It comes amid reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered his military to prepare for an invasion of Rafah, the last refuge in Gaza, where hundreds of thousands fled to at the orders of the invading army. The secretary of states trip to the Kerem Shalom crossing was reportedly planned so that he could evaluate the passage of much-needed aid into Gaza. But it was abandoned due to the presence of protesters linked to extremist settler groups who have been disrupting aid shipments into the beleaguered territory for several weeks. The protesters have demanded that no food enter Gaza until hostages kidnapped by Hamas during the 7 October attacks are released. Deliveries have also been blocked by the Israeli army, which inspects all aid trucks going into Gaza. A preparatory tour of the crossing by Israeli police, army, foreign ministry representatives and members of Mr Blinkens security detail had taken place ahead of the planned visit, according to Haaretz, which cited several people familiar with the planning. On the day of the tour, however, protesters managed to block nine trucks from entering. When Israeli police couldnt guarantee that they would be able to stop the protesters doing the same during Mr Blinkens visit, the trip was abandoned to avoid embarrassing the secretary of state, according to the report. At a press conference on Wednesday at the US embassy in Jerusalem, Mr Blinken denied that there was a visit planned, telling reporters that there was no planned visit to Kerem Shalom so there was nothing to cancel. The alleged cancellation of the trip further highlights a contradiction in US policy towards the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Mr Blinken has spoken often about the delivery of aid to Palestinians as a top priority, but his administration has been accused by aid groups of worsening the crisis. Hundreds of thousands of people in Gaza are starving as a result of Israels war against Hamas, according to aid agencies on the ground . But an even greater number of Palestinian lives may soon be at risk due to a decision by the US and its allies to freeze funding to UNRWA the United Nations agency responsible for Palestinian refugees following reports that a small number of employees were involved in those attacks. 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)) UNRWA has warned it may run out of money as early as this month, a worst-case scenario that aid groups have warned could cause widespread famine and death . Michael Fakhri, the UN special rapporteur on the right to food, said of the decision: Famine was imminent. Famine is now inevitable. The move also drew condemnation from US allies. The European Unions foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, called the freezing of UNRWA funds disproportionate and dangerous. The wrongdoing of individuals should never lead to the collective punishment of an entire population, he wrote in a blog post . The UNRWA was already struggling to operate effectively in Gaza before the freeze. It received just half of the funds it needed to meet the scale of the humanitarian catastrophe caused by the war. Israeli restrictions on aid deliveries and widespread bombing across the strip have made delivering aid almost impossible, and at least 152 of its staffers have been killed in the bombardment, according to the agency. Recommended Pressure on Blinken to get Gaza truce breakthrough as Israeli forces close on last refuge for Palestinians Other aid agencies have warned that they do not possess the capability to fill the gap left by UNRWA should it halt operations. Today, UNRWA says more than 500,000 people in Gaza are facing catastrophic hunger, and the risk of famine increases every day. That risk has been increased by the decision by Israel to block a significant number of aid trucks from entering Gaza. The UN said that 80 per cent of aid deliveries destined for northern Gaza were blocked by the Israeli army in January . More than 27,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israels offensive in the densely populated territory, most of them women and children, according to the health ministry in Gaza. The war was launched in response to a surprise attack by Hamas militants on 7 October that killed 1,200 people in Israel. Some 250 people were also kidnapped and taken back to Gaza. The Independent has requested comment from the US State Department and the Israeli army. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Watch again as the US Supreme Court hears Donald Trump's appeal of a judicial decision barring him from Colorado's Republican primary ballot on Thursday, 8 February. The Supreme Court heard arguments about whether former President Trump could be banned from the ballot this year. The case stems from Colorados highest court ruling that Mr Trump was disqualified for the presidency in an unprecedented order finding him constitutionally ineligible from holding office over his role in engaging in the January 6 attack on the US Capitol. The ruling was made under the scope of the 14th Amendment, which bars anyone who has sworn an oath to uphold the Constitution and engaged in insurrection or rebellion from holding public office. A statement from Mr Trumps campaign spokesperson accuses the lawsuit and court decision of joining what the former president characterised as a Democratic conspiracy of election interference against him. The Colorado Supreme Court issued a completely flawed decision tonight and we will swiftly file an appeal to the United States Supreme Court and a concurrent request for a stay of this deeply undemocratic decision, according to the statement from Steven Cheung. We have full confidence that the US Supreme Court will quickly rule in our favor and finally put an end to these unAmerican lawsuits. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Jimmy Kimmel had a thing or two to say to Republican candidate Nikki Haley after she uploaded a video that looked very similar to the hosts own show segment Mean Tweets. Ms Haleys parody video of Mean Tweets had her reading critical online comments about herself on Thursday, which even included an almost identical title sequence to Kimmels bit, only it said Nikki Haley Live! instead of the hosts name. The late-night show host woke up to a text asking if they had Haley on the show recently. It took me a while to figure out what Haley, Kimmel pondered. Like Haylie, who, Duff? Haley Joel Osment? Kimmel had a surprise waiting for him when he went online and found that Ms Haley, who is running for - her life right now - co-opted one of our bits, he said, slightly vexed. She used our bit. Our title. Our logo Our graphics. She called it Nikki Haley Live, he listed. And worst of all, she added the fakest fake laugh track that maybe Ive ever heard. She posted the clip on X in an attempt to have a good laugh at the trolls, saying, There are always going to be haters and doubters, but that means were doing something right. In one clip from Ms Haleys take on Mean Tweets, she read out a post from her Republican election rival, Donald Trump, and reacted to his comments over losing to Joe Biden in 2020 and her stance on border laws. Ms Haley also listed off other hate comments she has received online, such as Everybody hates you and that she has a room temperature IQ. Ah, she is a natural; the woman knows her way around a joke, you have to give her that, he joked sarcastically. Ms Haley had an embarrassing upset on Tuesday when she finished second behind none of these candidates in the Nevada primary, only receiving around half the votes that the none obtained. The late show host joked he would hire Rudy Giuliani to sue Haley (Jimmy Kimmel Live) How would you like it if I launched a disastrous campaign for president? Kimmel said staring directly into the camera lens. This is why you lost Nevada to none of the above. If youre going to steal our bits, at least eat all of Eric Trumps Halloween candy and see what kind of tantrum he throws. Kimmel ended his personal notes to Ms Haley, wishing her a lot of luck because his lawyer would be in contact very soon one Rudolph Giuliani he joked. Wouldnt it be fun if I hired him, he laughed, referring to Mr Trumps disgraced former attorney. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Joe Biden looks all but certain to be the Democratic nominee for president again in 2024, having picked up huge support in New Hampshire even without appearing on Granite State ballot papers and storming the subsequent primaries in South Carolina and Nevada as his rather half-hearted challengers fell away. The 81-year-old is determined to secure a second term in the White House and insists he is confident he can beat the likely Republican nominee Donald Trump once again. Mr Biden insists he is not deterred by his consistently poor polling and points to the robust success of the US economy under his stewardship, for which he deserves great credit. However, there is no question that the 46th presidents age is a cause of particular concern to voters, who are less than enthralled by the prospect of a rematch of the 2020 presidential election between two men who have a combined 158 years between them. Republican underdog Nikki Haley has repeatedly tried to break through by drawing attention to the advanced ages of her competitors, and the issue has provided plenty of material for Americas late-night TV hosts, with Stephen Colbert recently joking that President Bidens South Carolina primary vote count would also serve as a fine campaign slogan: Very close to 100. Mr Trump has certainly worked hard to suggest that his rival is too old, warning at one stage that President Bidens propensity for gaffes could lead to nuclear war and referring to him as a guy who cant put two sentences together in a February Newsmax interview. Mr Trump even posted a rather cruel spoof commercial for White House Senior Living on social media, an outrageous attack given that he is just four years his enemys junior. President Biden has fought back, however, producing his own gaffe reel of bizarre remarks Mr Trump has made at his campaign rallies, which came in the wake of the Republican falsely claiming that Ms Haley had been in charge of Capitol security on 6 January 2021, seemingly confusing her with then-House speaker Nancy Pelosi. But theres no denying that President Biden has made more than his fair share of mistakes and blunders over the years, a selection of which from his tenure in the White House follows. Mistaking Egypt for Mexico Giving a press conference after Justice Department special counsel Robert Hur had published a report on 8 February 2024 exonerating the president over his retention of classified Obama-era documents but calling him an elderly man with a poor memory in the process, Mr Biden was in angry and animated form and keen to hit back. He was particularly incensed by the prosecutor, a Republican, making personal remarks about his faculties, especially the claim that he could not remember what year his son Beau had died of brain cancer. Unfortunately, President Biden rather undermined his claim to rude mental health by appearing to confuse Egypt with Mexico while making reference to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in the Middle East. The president of Mexico did not want to open up the gate to allow humanitarian material to get in, he said. I talked to him. I convinced to open the gate. President Biden mixes up Mexico and Egypt while addressing hostage situation Confusing world leaders with their long-dead predecessors Perhaps the consequence of having been in politics for so long (Mr Biden was first sworn into the Senate in January 1973), the president twice mixed up fellow heads of states with their much earlier predecessors that same February. First off, he confused French president Emmanuel Macron with Francois Mitterand, who died in 1996, during a rally address to supporters in Las Vegas, Nevada, while recounting a G7 meeting in Cornwall in June 2021. Mitterrand from Germany I mean, from France looked at me and said, You know, what... why how long you back for? President Biden told his puzzled listeners. Biden appears to confuse Macron with dead French president Mitterrand Speaking subsequently in New York a few days later, he claimed to have discussed the Capitol riot with German chancellor Helmut Kohl, who passed away in 2017, four years before it took place. He was thinking of Angela Merkel. Forgetting the name of Hamas Also that same month, President Biden appeared unable to recall the name of the terror group being fought by Israel in Gaza, stumbling awkwardly over his words during a press conference at the White House. Biden appears to forget the word Hamas during key speech Tripping on the steps to Air Force One The president stumbled awkwardly on the stairs of Air Force One in July 2023, a watch your step warning that had recently been placed on the jets steps proving no help at all. He took a slight stumble while boarding the presidential airplane in Helsinki, Finland, where he had met with Scandinavian leaders after a two-day Nato summit in Vilnius, Lithuania. About half way up he appeared to stumble very slightly but kept walking on up. He turned to wave to the staff out on the tarmac and went in, a pool report noted. Muddling up the wars in Ukraine and Iraq In an infamous slip-up from June 2023, the president muddled up the ongoing war in Ukraine with the Iraq war, which ended in 2011. President Biden was speaking to reporters on the South Lawn of the White House before heading to Chicago when he was asked whether he believed Russian president Vladimir Putin had been weakened by the Wagner Groups mutiny that summer. He responded by saying that President Putin was clearly losing the war in Iraq. Joe Biden says Putin is 'losing the war in Iraq' God save the Queen That same month, President Biden made another verbal gaffe when he bizarrely closed out a speech on gun control with the proclamation: God save the Queen, man. The president was speaking to a group of gun safety advocates at the National Safer Communities Summit in Connecticut at the time. The slip-up certainly raised eyebrows and provoked confusion over whether he had been referring to Queen Elizabeth II, who died in September 2022, or King Charles IIIs wife Queen Camilla, who had just been crowned a month earlier at a grand coronation ceremony in London that President Biden had declined to attend. Neither were in Connecticut, in any case. The White House later sought to explain away the bizarre reference by saying that he was merely commenting to someone in the crowd. Biden says God save the Queen as he wraps up his gun safety speech Mr President? When President Biden first hosted Rishi Sunak as UK prime minister at the White House in June 2023, he accidentally addressed him by his own moniker: Mr President. The British PM had travelled to Washington DC, for a two-day trip where the two leaders held a meeting in the Oval Office. As they smiled and posed for photos, the commander-in-chief began: Well, Mr President... Quickly correcting himself, he joked: I just demoted you, Mr Prime Minister. The two laughed off the slip-up and continued with their business. Biden mistakenly calls Rishi Sunak Mr President Taking flight at an Air Force graduation President Biden took another rather worrying tumble while on stage at the Air Force Academy graduation ceremony that same month. The president delivered the commencement address at the event and stayed on stage as graduates were handed their diplomas. As he walked off, he then stumbled and fell to the ground. He was helped up by Air Force officials and appeared to point at a nearby sandbag as the reason for the mishap. White House communications director Ben LaBolt later tweeted that he was fine and that there was a sandbag on stage while he was shaking hands. Biden falls at Air Force graduation Confusing the All Blacks with the Black and Tans in Ireland The president, a proud Irish-American, was given a heros welcome when he returned to the Old Country in April 2023, meeting the president and taoiseach, addressing the Irish Parliament, attending a banquet held in his honour at Dublin Castle, and visiting County Louth to trace his ancestors roots. He also made a staggeringly embarrassing blunder while speaking in a pub, the Windsor Bar in Dundalk, when he appeared to confuse the New Zealand international rugby union side, known as the All Blacks for their dark shirts, with the Black and Tans, a hated police unit from Irelands War of Independence era with a reputation for violence. See this tie I have, this shamrock tie? Mr Biden said. It was given to by one of these guys right here, whos a hell of a rugby player who beat the hell out of the Black and Tans. Rugby star Rob Kearney, a distant relative of Mr Bidens, was more than a little perplexed by this excruciating moment, which the president hurried to correct. Napping at COP26 In a video that went viral on social media, President Biden was caught sleeping on the job at the COP26 climate change conference in Scotland in November 2021. In the clip, the president was seen appearing to doze off during the opening remarks of the climate summit, with his eyes shut at one point for more than 20 seconds. An aide was seen popping over and nudging him awake. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Democrats are rushing to defend President Joe Biden after he appeared to confuse Mexico with Egypt during a press conference called to refute claims about his poor memory. Following the release of Special Counsel Robert Hurs report on Thursday which claimed Mr Bidens memory was significantly limited Democratic lawmakers pointed to House Speaker Mike Johnsons own gaffe, where he confused Iran with Israel last week. Let me be clear... we passed the support for Iran many months ago. Immediately after I became Speaker we set the necessary resources there, Mr Johnson said while appearing live on Meet the Press last week, referring to an aid package passed by Congress for Israel. Democrats and commentators quickly took to X to point out the House speakers gaffe, accusing Republicans of hypocrisy and double standards. Speaker Johnson must resign. Im worried about his memory. How can he lead the Congress? Rep Eric Swalwell wrote. Oh the Irony about bad memory. Let me help him out. Iran: Bad Israel: Good, congressman Jared Moskowitz added. If you are calling out Biden for referring to Egypt as Mexico but didnt have a problem with Trump calling Nikki Haley Nancy Pelosi, then you are disingenuous, social media commentator Brian Krassenstein chimed in. Democrats are seeking to defend president Biden after he appeared to confuse Mexico with Egyptduring a press conference (AP) If you are calling out Bidens memory but ignoring the fact that Trump did not recall 30+ times under oath then you are disingenuous. People make mistakes and misspeak all the time. I do it probably daily and Im only 42 and dont have people shouting at me, Mr Biden had called a press conference on Thursday evening to push back on the claims made in the special counsels report. But, in the briefing, he sparked further questions about his memory when he appeared to confuse Mexico with Egypt. The president of Mexico did not want to open up the gate to allow humanitarian material to get in. I talked to him. I convinced to open the gate, he said. I talked to Bibi [Benjamin Netenyahu] to open the gate on the Israeli side. Ive been pushing really hard, really hard to get humanitarian assistance into Gaza. There are a lot of innocent people who are starving, innocent people or in trouble and die, and its got to stop, number one. Number two... Im the guy that made the case that we have to do much more to increase the amount of material going in, including fuel, including other items. Ive been on the phone with Qataris. Ive been on the phone with the Egyptians, he added. Mike Johnson confuses Iran with Israel Mr Hurs report came from the findings of an investigation into Mr Bidens handling of classified documents, which were found at his home in Delaware and former office in Washington DC. In his report, the Republican prosecutor did not recommend that Mr Biden face criminal charges, citing what he described as significant mitigating factors. Among these factors, he said that Mr Bidens memory about the documents was significantly limited during his interviews with investigators and described the president as a well meaning elderly man with a poor memory. The report also claimed that Mr Biden did not remember what year his son, Beau Biden, had died from brain cancer, and described part of an interview in which the president had trouble keeping track of the years during which he served as vice president. During Thursdays press conference, Mr Biden took umbrage at the suggestion he could not remember when his son died. Donald Trump, 77, has also questioned Joe Bidens mental competency (REUTERS) Theres even reference that I dont remember when my son died how the hell dare he raise that? he said. The president pointed out that he still wears a rosary which belonged to his late son on his wrist, and attends a yearly memorial service to mark the anniversary of his death. I dont need anyone to remind me when he passed away, he added. The scathing report comes as Mr Biden has made a series of gaffes in recent public speeches. On Wednesday, the 81-year-old president declared that he had discussed the January 6 Capitol riots with Chancellor of Germany Helmut Kohl, during a G7 meeting in the UK in 2021. Kohl passed away in 2017. Mr Biden appears to have been trying to refer to another former chancellor of Germany, Angela Merkel, who was in office at the time back of the apparent 2021 conversation. Meanwhile, during a campaign speech on Sunday in Las Vegas, Mr Biden made another gaffe, confusing current French president Emmanuel Macron with the former president of France, Francois Mitterrand, who has been dead since 1996. And this weeks gaffes arent the only ones on the presidents record, who has nicknamed himself the gaffe machine. In June 2023, the president muddled up the ongoing war in Ukraine for the Iraq War, which ended in 2011. In the same month, Mr Biden made another verbal gaffe when he bizarrely closed out a speech on gun control with the proclamation: God save the Queen, man. Mr Bidens many gaffes have been capitalised on by his political rivals, including 77-year-old Donald Trump, who claimed the president cant put two sentences together and hes in charge of nuclear warfare at an event in October. Mr Trump also trolled president Mr Biden last month with a spoof advert depicting the White House as a senior living establishment where residents feel like presidents. However, Mr Trump, who is just four years younger than the president, has also faced questions over his own age and mental competency. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis previously launched an accident tracker to catalogue Mr Trumps various gaffes while he was competing with him for the Republican presidential nomination the latest of which occurred last month when he appeared to mix-up his only Republican challenger Nikki Haley with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi while discussing the January 6 Capitol riots. Mr Biden later mocked Mr Trump for the gaffe, writing on X: I dont agree with Nikki Haley on everything, but we agree on this much: She is not Nancy Pelosi. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Vice President Kamala Harris on Friday came out swinging with a full-throated defence of President Joe Biden in the wake of an unflattering report on his conduct by a Republican special prosecutor. Ms Harris was speaking in the Indian Treaty Room at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building at an event hosted by the White Houses gun violence prevention office when she addressed the matter of Mr Hurs report, which critics have assailed as including gratuitous attacks on the president even as it announced that he will not face any criminal charges stemming from the discovery of classified documents at his Delaware home. She said she has been privileged and proud to serve as vice president of the United States under Mr Biden, and said Mr Hurs remarks on Mr Bidens age and memory were gratuitous, inaccurate, and inappropriate. Ms Harris also noted that the interview with Mr Biden which figured prominently in Mr Hurs report took place just after the 7 October Hamas attacks on Israel. It was an intense moment for the commander-in-chief of the United States of America. And I was in almost every meeting with the president in the hours and days that followed. Countless hours with the secretary of defense, the secretary of state, the heads of our intelligence community, and the president was in front of it and on top of it all, asking questions and requiring that Americas military and intelligence community and diplomatic community would figure out and know how many people were dead, how many are Americans, how many hostages, she said. He was in front of it all, coordinating and directing leaders in charge of Americas national security, not to mention our allies around the globe. Ms Harris added that the way that the presidents demeanour had been characterised by Mr Hur could not be more wrong on the facts. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Vladimir Putin says Russia is ready to hold negotiations over a prisoner exchange that could see the release of US journalist Evan Gershkovich. Talking to Tucker Carlson in an interview in Moscow, the Russian president said his regime was open to talks but repeatedly pushed an unverifiable claim that the Wall Street Journal reporter was guilty of espionage. "He was caught red-handed when he was secretly getting classified information," Mr Putin said of Mr Gershkovich, adding that he doesnt exclude that the reporter could return home. The Wall Street Journal and US news outlets have strongly denied any wrongdoing by Mr Gershkovich and said his activities fell strictly within the remit of legitimate journalism. Putin dangled the prospect of releasing Mr Gershkovich in exchange for the Russian agent and FSB assassin Vadim Krasikov, who is currently in prison in Germany after killing a Georgian military officer in a Berlin park in 2019. Claiming that there is no taboo on settling the issue of the 32-year-old reporters release, the Russian president said, "We are ready to solve it but there are certain conditions being discussed between special services. They are talking I believe an agreement can be reached. Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, right, is escorted from the Lefortovsky court in Moscow, Russia. (AP) This is the first time Mr Putin has addressed the US journalists arrest by Russian authorities. Mr Gershkovich was detained in March last year during a reporting trip to the Russian city of Yekaterinburg, about 2,000km (1,200 miles) east of Moscow. Russias Federal Security Service alleged that the reporter, acting on the instructions of the American side, collected information constituting a state secret about the activities of one of the enterprises of the Russian military-industrial complex. He has been held in Russian custody since and, if found guilty, could be jailed for up to 20 years. Expanding on his offer of talks, Mr Putin linked his case to that of a man imprisoned in a US-allied country for liquidating a bandit who killed Russian soldiers during the fighting in the Caucasus. This is widely presumed to refer to Krasikov, though Mr Putin did not name him directly. He [the Georgian military officer] put our soldiers taken prisoners on a road and then drove a car over their heads. There was a patriot who liquidated him in one of the European capitals," Mr Putin said. Mr Putin insisted that Mr Gershkovich had obtained classified information from one of his sources in a clandestine manner, and had been caught red-handed upon receiving the information. He was receiving classified confidential information, and he was doing it covertly, the Russian president told Carlson. Mr Putin added: He was caught red handed when he was receiving this information. The Russian leader also charged that Mr Gershkovich was working for the US special services and was essentially controlled by the US authorities, an accusation that is likely to be strenuously denied by the Journal as it would compromise the integrity of any journalist to be surreptitiously working for the US government. The US government has maintained that Mr Gershkovich was not working as a spy and considers him wrongfully detained on politicised charges. Evan is a journalist, and journalism is not a crime. Any portrayal to the contrary is total fiction. Evan was unjustly arrested and has been wrongfully detained by Russia for nearly a year for doing his job, and we continue to demand his immediate release, said a spokesperson for the Journal when contacted for comment by The Independent. They added: Were encouraged to see Russias desire for a deal that brings Evan home, and we hope this will lead to his rapid release and return to his family and our newsroom." Mr Gershkovichs imprisonment came after another American, basketball star Brittany Griner, was held in detention for a lengthy period of time over a drug possession charge. She was later freed after the Biden administration reached an agreement to exchange her for the release of a Russian arms dealer in US custody. Putin repeats de-Nazification claim, meanders around Carlson questions The two prosecutions of Mr Gershkovich and Ms Griner are considered by many in the US as part of a growing trend in which authoritarian countries imprison Americans and other Westerners on trumped-up charges to extract concessions from their respective governments. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has signed the law "On Approval of the Additional Protocol to the Council of Europe Convention on the Prevention of Terrorism," Trend reports. According to the law, the Parliament of the Republic of Azerbaijan, guided by paragraph 4 of Part I of Article 95 of the Republic of Azerbaijan's Constitution, decides to approve the Additional Protocol to the Council of Europe Convention on the Prevention of Terrorism, signed in Riga on October 22, 2015, based on the Republic of Azerbaijan's relevant statements. Stay up to date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Vladimir Putin mocked Tucker Carlson for trying and failing to join the CIA, during their more than two-hour-long, freewheeling interview released on Thursday. The remark came during a discussion of the 2014 political protests in Ukraine, which led to the ouster of its then-President Viktor Yanukovich and subsequently Russias annexation of Crimea and backing of so-called pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine. The Russian president went on to claim that his 2022 invasion of Ukraine was an attempt to put an end to the conflict that he falsely argued Ukraine had began back in 2014. Mr Putin said that the entire Ukrainian economy used to be based on trade with Russia. The cooperation ties between the enterprises were very close since the times of the Soviet Union. One enterprise there used to produce components to be assembled both in Russia and Ukraine and vice versa. There used to be very close ties, he said. A coup detat was committed, although, I shall not delve into details now as I find doing it inappropriate, the US told us, Calm Yanukovich down and we will calm the opposition. Let the situation unfold in the scenario of a political settlement. We said, Alright. Agreed. Lets do it this way. As the Americans requested us, Yanukovich did use neither the Armed Forces, nor the police, yet the armed opposition committed a coup in Kiev. What is that supposed to mean? Who do you think you are?, I wanted to ask the then-US leadership, he said. With the backing of whom? Mr Carlson asked. With the backing of CIA, of course. At that point, Mr Putin jabbed at the right-wing media figure for his own past efforts applying to work for the CIA. The organisation you wanted to join back in the day, as I understand, he said. Maybe we should thank God they didnt let you in. Although, it is a serious organisation. I understand. My former vis-a-vis, in the sense that I served in the First Main Directorate Soviet Unions intelligence service. They have always been our opponents. A job is a job. He added: Technically they did everything right, they achieved their goal of changing the government. However, from political standpoint, it was a colossal mistake. Surely, it was political leaderships miscalculation. They should have seen what it would evolve into. Both Mr Putins claim that Mr Yanukovich didnt use force against the protesters who were outraged after he backtracked on a deal for closer cooperation with the European Union in 2014, instead moving back towards Russia and his claim that the CIA was behind a coup to replace Mr Yanukovich, were blasted as outright lies by critics. Mr Putin also falsely claimed that initially, it was the coup in Ukraine that provoked the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. In 2019, RadioFreeEurope wrote that more than 100 people were killed and 2,500 injured in clashes with security forces, some of them shot dead by snipers, during the Euromaidan protests in Kyiv in 2014. A woman visits the memorial to the Heavenly hundred heroes, who were killed in 2014 during the mass Euromaidan protests, on the Day of Remembrance of Heroes of Heavenly Hundred, on February 20, 2023 in Kyiv, Ukraine (Getty Images) A scholar of Russian war propaganda, Dr Ian Garner noted on X: Putin blames other countries for not agreeing that the coup - which lets remember wasnt a coup - was a coup. It was the CIAs fault. Putin blames the coup, but also claims hes bothered about NATOs eastward expansion (contradicting himself) ... and by Ukraines desire to join NATO (i.e. the standard only Russia can call the shots in Ukraine line), he added. A former deputy minister at the Ukrainian Ministry of Internal Affairs, Anton Gerashchenko, also wrote on X that Mr Carlsons interview merely made him an instrument of propaganda for Mr Putin. This interview is propaganda from the leader of an aggressor country and a war criminal. It cant be called anything other than propaganda. This interview made Carlson himself an instrument of propaganda. Tucker Carlson understands this well and realizes how much he miscalculated. The US Ambassador to Russia between 2012 and 2014, Michael McFaul, noted that the start of the interview was revealing about why Putin invaded. He was not reacting to some imminent NATO expansion but seeking to correct (in his view) things that occurred centuries before the creation of NATO. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} For what felt like the first time in weeks, Thursday was a day of good news for the former president, who has spent years baselessly portraying himself as a victim of a Democratic conspiracy to keep him out of the White House. He was satisfied with his attorneys case in front of the US Supreme Court. He won another primary election. A federal judge overseeing his classified documents case seems to be ignoring prosecutors fears about his harassment campaign. And President Joe Bidens US Department of Justice gave the former president enough validation to keep the sleepy Joe narrative alive through Election Day. Even when his rivals get the same treatment, Mr Trump tells his supporters hes the victim of a weaponized Justice Department and a two-tiered system of justice, ignoring thousands of pages of evidence against him. Hell take the victories in elections he won and call any loss rigged against him. His own attorney stood in front of the nations highest court to call a violent attack that risked tossing out millions of Americans votes criminal, and none of the justices blinked. Seen another way, a firehose of news on a good day for the likely Republican nominee for president leaning into his autocratic campaign built on retribution is a big red flashing light for our deteriorating democracy, its institutions too slow or ill-equipped to respond. Supreme Court justices, including the three he appointed, appeared ready to reject a Colorado decision that Mr Trump, under the insurrection clause of the 14th Amendment, is disqualified from public office. The justices werent interested in having a working definition of insurrection let alone deciding if engaging in one should disqualify him from office. That whole question, which is both central to the case before the court and an otherwise straight-forward clause in the Constitution to keep people out of government who try to overturn it, was largely an afterthought, and the courts chief justice wasnt even open to debating what it means. Colorado courts agreed that Mr Trumps actions on 6 January 2021 when a mob of his supporters, hopped up on his election lies, stormed the halls of Congress and stopped the certification of 2020 results constituted overt, voluntary, and direct participation in the insurrection. Mr Trumps attorney told the Supreme Court that it was merely a riot, even a criminal one. But if it was insurrection, only Congress can decide to remove him, and only after he is elected, he said. A vote would then be in the hands of the same body controlled by a party that right now is putting forward a resolution claiming that the former president did not engage in insurrection. The justices were more concerned with legally irrelevant, hypothetically messy complications that could follow a decision to disqualify a candidate who engaged in insurrection, with Justice John Roberts with no sense of irony whatsoever wondering aloud that an election could come down to a handful of states that will determine the presidential election. What if Republicans decide that a Democratic candidate engaged in something theyd consider an insurrection, he asked, dismissing the Colorado attorneys argument that frivolous attempts to invoke the 14th Amendment shouldnt be treated the same as the one in front of them that is an actual event that happened a few years ago just down the street. Donald Trump appears in front of supporters in Nevada on 8 February. (AFP via Getty Images) A few mere hours after the Supreme Court hearing, the Justice Departments special counsel investigating the presidents mishandling of classified documents released its report. The report notably questioned Mr Bidens mental fitness, feeding into right-wing attacks that Mr Trump has weaponised for his base. The results of the investigation which didnt yield any criminal charges gave the former president ample ammunition for his campaign, which has raised tens of millions of dollars with a narrative of political persecution he tells his supporters is also coming for them. Special counsel Robert Hur correctly made the distinction in his report that the presidents conduct was far different than the former presidents in the Mar-a-Lago case largely absent in the media frenzy, which Republicans are eager to exploit in bad-faith attacks. Prosecutors are supposed to stay out of partisan politics, yet Mr Hurs report is now being sharpened into a lethal weapon by the same people throwing democracy under the bus for Mr Trumps second coming. That same night, special counsel Jack Smith who is leading the two federal investigations into the former president blasted a federal judge who has ignored repeated warnings that Mr Trump is using his indictments to bully and threaten witnesses and anyone else in his way. He criticised US District Judge Aileen Cannon for ordering prosecutors to submit documents in the Mar-a-Lago case without redacting witness names and other information that could present significant and immediate risks of threats, intimidation, and harassment. Mr Smith has repeatedly warned judges about what his team has previously called a part of a pattern, stretching back years, in which people publicly targeted are subject to harassment, threats, and intimidation. Mr Trump seeks to use this well-known dynamic to his advantage and it has continued unabated as this case and other unrelated cases involving the defendant have progressed, Justice Department attorneys wrote last year. Meanwhile, Thursday night also saw Mr Trump sweep the Nevada caucuses an outcome that was all but guaranteed after Republicans in the state effectively made up a separate contest for him. He celebrated nonetheless. This is likely the pace for the rest of 2024: an exhausting blast of flood the zone chaos to prove Mr Trump right at everyone elses expense. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Special Counsel Jack Smith has slammed the judge overseeing the classified documents case against former president Donald Trump for causing significant risks of threats to witnesses. Florida Judge Aileen Cannon has rejected calls to recuse herself from the case due to her appointed by Mr Trump to the bench. On Thursday, the special counsel criticised her for ordering prosecutors to submit documents in the case without redacting names and other information about witnesses that could lead to significant and immediate risks of threats, intimidation, and harassment. In a court filing, the government prosecutors argued that the reasons to make the information public isnt strong enough to outweigh the risk to potential witnesses in the case. The information in question includes names of FBI agents who took part in the raid on the former presidents private Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, details regarding the layout of the facility, such as the location of the bedroom of Mr Trumps youngest son Barron Trump, as well as information garnered from interviews with witnesses. It also includes reports on interviews with witnesses such as civil servants and former close advisors to defendant Trump. The special counsel noted that one of the documents also includes information about uncharged potentially obstructive conduct by a defendant, and speculation about witness tampering by an uncharged individual. In a filing against Mr Trump and his staffers Walt Nauta and Carlos De Oliveira, the office of the special counsel noted that in two recent orders, the Court has denied the Governments request to seal or redact certain material that was provided to the defendants in discovery. That discovery material, if publicly docketed in unredacted form as the Court has ordered, would disclose the identities of numerous potential witnesses, along with the substance of the statements they made to the FBI or the grand jury, exposing them to significant and immediate risks of threats, intimidation, and harassment, as has already happened to witnesses, law enforcement agents, judicial officers, and Department of Justice employees whose identities have been disclosed in cases in which defendant Trump is involved, the office wrote. Judge Cannon argued that the special counsel did not provide enough of a legal basis for the information to stay sealed or redacted, but she did allow information regarding national security to stay private. In Mr Smiths 22-page filing, the government prosecutors wrote that Reconsideration is warranted to correct clear error and prevent manifest injustice, before they noted that the Court applied the wrong legal standard and issued orders that, in practice, will expose witnesses and others to intolerable and needless risks. Judge Aileen Cannon is presiding over classified documents case (AP) This criticism from Mr Smiths office comes after a filing on Wednesday, in which he previewed the threats that have been made over social media to a prospective Government witness and the surrounding circumstances, and the fact that those threats are the subject of an ongoing federal investigation being handled by a United States Attorneys Office. The next hearings in the classified documents case are scheduled for next week, but it remains unclear if Judge Cannon will address the issue at that time. Whats also unclear is when this case will go to trial. While Judge Cannon has set a date for May, she has indicated that it is likely to be delayed. The former presidents legal team has requested that some deadlines in the case be postponed indefinitely. On Thursday, prosecutors also asked Judge Cannon to reject that request, writing that: The defendants move this Court to indefinitely postpone their deadline for unspecified legal motionstheir fourth attempt to adjourn different pretrial trial deadlines or the trial itself. Their objective is plainto delay trial as long as possible. The prosecutors added: And the tactics they deploy are relentless and misleadingthey will stop at nothing to stall the adjudication of the charges against them by a fair and impartial jury of citizens. The Court should promptly reject the defendants motion. Mr Trump, who faces a total of 91 charges across four indictments in addition to a number of major civil cases, has attempted to push all trials back as far as possible after the 2024 election. If he manages to return to the White House, he could appoint prosecutors in the federal cases against him who could drop the charges. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} It took roughly one hour into an historic US Supreme Court hearing on Thursday for the justices to get to a question at the heart of Donald Trumps disqualification from Colorados ballots. Was the attack on the US Capitol on January 6 mounted by a mob by the former presidents supporters, fuelled by his ongoing election lies and his call to fight like hell on his behalf an act of insurrection, and was then-president Trump responsible? The former president has flatly rejected the word and downplayed the attack as he paints himself as a victim of political persecution. In front of the Supreme Court, one of his lawyers rejected the term. But he called it criminal. Section 3 of the 14th Amendment holds that no person who swore an oath to uphold the Constitution can hold any office, civil or military, under the United States, if they engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same. Last year, a Colorado judge determined that Mr Trump not only engaged with insurrection, he also acted with the specific intent to incite political violence and direct it at the Capitol with the purpose of disrupting the electoral certification. Colorados Supreme Court later affirmed that his actions constituted overt, voluntary, and direct participation in the insurrection, rendering him ineligible for office under the scope of the 14th Amendment. On Thursday, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson pressed the former presidents attorney for his position on the events of that day. January 6 was a riot, according to attorney Jonathan Mitchell. An insurrection, he said, needs to be an organised, concerted effort to overthrow the government. A chaotic effort to overthrow the government is not an insurrection? Justice Jackson fired back. We didnt concede that its an effort to overthrow the government, either, Mr Mitchell said. This was a riot. It was not an insurrection. The events were shameful, criminal, violent all of those things. But it did not qualify as insurrection. An admission from one of Mr Trumps attorneys that the Capitol attack constituted criminal actions in front of the nations highest court follows the former presidents own attempts to evade liability from criminal charges connected to his attempts to overturn 2020 election results. He has also repeatedly called the hundreds of convicted January 6 defendants hostages and vowed to pardon them, if hes elected to the White House. Rioters are patriots, he said. January 6 was a beautiful day. The love in the air, he said later that year. Ive never seen anything like it. Mr Trump opened his first official rally of his 2024 campaign with a song from a prison choir of men jailed in connection with the Capitol attacks before promising retribution for his followers. The so-called J6 Prison Choir includes a group of defendants who remain in a Washington DC jail for crimes that, according to federal prosecutors, were so violent that their pretrial release would pose a danger to the public. Days after federal prosecutors warned that they intend to use his endorsement of their alleged actions in the election conspiracy case against him, Mr Trump called them hostages. Im inclined to pardon many of them, he said during a CNN town hall last year. I cant say for every single one, because a couple of them, probably, they got out of control. Protesters hold a remove Trump banner outside the US Supreme Court on 8 February as justices hear arguments in case considering whether to disqualify the former president from office. (EPA) More than 1,300 people face criminal charges in connection with the Capitol attack, acccording to the US Department of Justice. Nearly 500 people are charged with assaulting or impeding officers or employees, and more than 100 are charged with using a deadly or dangerous weapon. In his arguments to the Supreme Court, Mr Mitchell said that even an admitted insurrectionist could still be allowed on ballots, and only Congress should be able to decide whether that candidate should be removed from office but only after theyre elected, not while theyre still running. The insurrection question has been looming throughout the hundreds of criminal cases against rioters, though its a charge that hasnt been brought against any of them. The federal election subversion case against the former president charges him with conspiracy and obstruction for a multi-state scheme to overturn 2020 results, a pressure campaign against officials and his then-Vice President Mike Pence, and his failure to stop a mob from rejecting the results by force. The judges in Colorado and Maines secretary of state have all determined that the attack amounted to an insurrection, with then-President Trump at the centre of it. The district court ruling in Colorado said Mr Trump acted with the specific intent to disrupt the Electoral College certification of President Bidens electoral victory through unlawful means; specifically, by using unlawful force and violence. Mr Trump cultivated a culture that embraced political violence and intended for the crowd to engage in violence when he sent them to the Capitol to fight like hell, Judge Sarah Wallace wrote. The Colorado Supreme Court agreed. A mob at the US Capitol fights law enforcement on 6 January, 2021. (REUTERS) But on Thursday, Supreme Court justices appeared skeptical that states have authority to disqualify federal candidates without permission from Congress. Chief Justice John Roberts suggested that the plain consequences of Colorados position would trigger a pretty daunting consequence and throw American elections into chaos. Surely there will be disqualification proceedings on the other side and a goodly number of states will say whoever the Democratic candidate is, youre off the ballot, he said. And it will come down to a handful of states that will determine the presidential election. Jason Murray, an attorney representing a group of Colorado Republicans and independent voters who sued to remove Mr Trump from the ballot, argued that the fact that there are potential frivolous applications of a constitutional provision shouldnt be reason to stop any challenge. Justice Roberts cut him off, suggesting that one persons frivolous argument is anothers legitimate one. Insurrection is a broad, broad term, he said. He argued that the Supreme Court, then, would be left to decide whether it was an insurrection when one president did something as opposed to someone else doing something. Then what do we do, do we wait until near the time of counting the ballots and go through which states are valid and which states arent? he asked. Other states may have different views about what constitutes insurrection And now youre saying, well, thats alright because somebody presumably us are going to decide, well, they said they thought that was an insurrection and they were wrong, maybe they thought it was right, and we have to develop rules for what constitutes an insurrection. Yes, your honour, Mr Murray said. Just like this court interprets other constitutional provisions, this court can make clear that the insurrection against the constitution is something extraordinary. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Tucker Carlson met with NSA leaker Edward Snowden while in Moscow, according to Semafor. The former whistleblower featured heavily in Russian media before seeking more privacy in his family life. Mr Snowden was initially granted asylum in Russia in 2013 after leaking a trove of classified National Security Agency (NSA) documents and then was granted permanent resident status in Russia in 2020. That year, he announced his decision to seek dual citizenship, stating in a tweet that after years of separation from our parents, my wife and I have no desire to be separated from our son. Carlson reportedly met Snowden for hours, but the meeting was not for his video programme, the outlet noted. But Carlson did record an interview with Tara Reade, a former Senate aide who later accused President Joe Biden of sexual assault, which he has denied. The former aide moved to Russia after sharing her increasingly supportive views of Russian policies. The Russian UN delegation called on her to speak in 2022 regarding weapons diversion, and she had Russias Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN appear on her YouTube channel. Edward Snowden was granted asylum in Russia in 2013 (Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) Carlson did appear sceptical of her allegations against Biden in 2020. The former Fox News host was heavily criticised for seeking an interview with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which was his main purpose for travelling to Moscow. The interview was released on Thursday evening and began with a lengthy diatribe from Mr Putin regarding Russian and Ukrainian history. Tucker Carlson is far from being the first Western journalist to have aligned himself with the enemy. Theres a long tradition of the likes of Hitler and Stalin finding pliable Brits and Americans to do their propaganda for them, Jamie Dettmer wrote for Politico. Putin calls Ukraine an artificial state shaped at Stalins will Exiled Russian businessman and opposition leader Mikhail Khodorkovsky, a former oligarch who lives in London following his 2003 jailing in Russia after falling out with Mr Putin, noted on X that Carlson is part of the Kremlins effort to get Western approval. It needs Western approval. This is why, for example, Russian propagandists have taken to writing pro-Putin comments under articles on Western news sites under assumed European and American names, then reprinting them as Western opinions, he wrote. This is where Tucker Carlson comes in. Hes been complimentary of Putin for years, even as the dictator became persona non grata among the broader Western public. So when he visited Moscow, he got the superstar treatment. His visit has received more media coverage than any visiting world leader or celebrity in years. His every move was portrayed as a matter of national importance all because he satisfies the regimes need for approval from the West, the dissident wrote regarding Carlsons Moscow trip. Mr Putin took his chance to lay out his distorted version of history, claiming that Ukraine is not a real country. After World War II, Ukraine received in addition to the lands that had belonged to Poland before the war, both of the lands that had previously belonged to Hungary and Romania so Romania and Hungary had some of their lands taken away and given to the Soviet Ukraine, and they still remain part of Ukraine, he claimed. So in this sense, we have every reason to affirm that Ukraine is an artificial state that was shaped at Stalins will, Mr Putin argued. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Scientists are warning that Iceland may experience further volcanic eruptions in the coming months despite the recent event in the southwest appearing to have subsided. Icelands Meteorological Office said late Thursday that the eruption had decreased significantly. The eruption began at about 6 am local time on Thursday in the area northeast of Mount Sylingarfell, the Met Office said. It prompted the evacuation of the popular Blue Lagoon thermal spa and cut off heat and hot water to several communities on the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwestern corner of the island. Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdottir said authorities hope to restore hot water to the area by midday on Friday, national broadcaster RUV reported. The eruption site is about 4 kilometers (2 miles) northeast of Grindavik, a coastal town of 3,800 people that was evacuated before a previous eruption on Dec. 18. The town wasnt threatened by Thursdays eruption. Benedikt Ofeigsson, a geophysicist at the Icelandic Met Office, told RUV that the area can expect an eruption every month or so over the next few months. Iceland Volcano In the long term, its very difficult to say, but in the short term, the next months, we will probably continue to see repeated magma intrusions and eruptions, he said. Civil Defence officials said that no one was believed to be in the town at the time of the eruption, Icelandic national broadcaster RUV reported. They werent meant to be, and we dont know about any, Vioir Reynisson, the head of Icelands Civil Defence, told the outlet. This is the third eruption since December of a volcanic system on the Reykjanes Peninsula, which is home to Keflavik, Icelands main airport. There was no disruption reported to the airport on Thursday. (AP) The Icelandic Met Office earlier this week warned of a possible eruption after monitoring a build-up of subsurface magma for the past three weeks. Iceland, which sits above a volcanic hot spot in the North Atlantic, averages an eruption every four to five years. Iceland, which is roughly the size of the US state of Kentucky, boasts more than 30 active volcanoes, making the north European island a prime destination for volcano tourism a niche segment that attracts thousands of thrill seekers. The most disruptive in recent times was the 2010 eruption of the Eyjafjallajokull volcano, which spewed huge clouds of ash into the atmosphere and led to widespread airspace closures over Europe. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has shaken up his top military brass, replacing army chief General Valeriy Zaluzhnyi with Oleksandr Syrskyi. Defence Minister Rustem Umerov said separately that the decision had been taken to change the military leadership. The statements follow days of speculation that Zelenskiy was considering dismissing his popular army chief, who is seen by many Ukrainians as a national hero for overseeing the war effort since February 2022. Zelenskiy said in his statement he had met with Zaluzhnyi. Colonel-General Oleksandr Syrskyi, who has led Ukraines ground forces since 2019, was promoted to commander of the armed forces on Thursday as the war with Russia nears its third year. Senior Russian security official Dmitry Medvedev on Friday said Ukraines new Russian-born army chief was a traitor, while the Kremlin said the appointment would not alter the outcome of what Russia calls its special military operation in Ukraine. Zelenskiy said in his statement he had met with Zaluzhnyi (REUTERS) Here are some facts about Syrskyi, already a key Ukrainian figure throughout Russias full-scale invasion. Early years Syrskyi was born in July 1965 in Russias Vladimir region, which was then part of the Soviet Union. He has lived in Ukraine since the 1980s. Like many people of his age in Ukraines armed forces, he studied in Moscow - at the Higher Military Command School - among peers who have since become Russian commanders, graduating in 1986 and serving for five years in the Soviet Artillery Corps. Some military analysts believe his battlefield tactics reflect his hierarchical Soviet training. Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskiy listens a report of Commander of the Ground Forces colonel general Oleksandr Syrskyi (via REUTERS) Snow Leopard Syrskyi became head of Ukraines land forces in 2019. He had previously commanded Ukrainian troops fighting a Moscow-backed insurgency in the eastern Donetsk and Luhansk regions that began in 2014, and was given the call sign Snow leopard. His biggest victories Some of Ukraines biggest victories of Russias full-scale invasion were overseen by Syrskyi. He led the successful defence of the capital Kyiv in the early months and was named a Hero of Ukraine, the countrys highest honour, in April 2022. In July 2022, Syrskyi planned and executed a lightning counteroffensive that pushed Russian troops away from the city of Kharkiv and retook swathes of land to the east and southeast. Zelensky and Syrskyi (UKRAINIAN PRESIDENTIAL PRESS SER) Bakhmut Early last year, Syrskyi led Ukraines defence of the eastern city of Bakhmut, where thousands of soldiers on both sides were killed in one of the bloodiest battles of the war so far. Some military analysts questioned whether fighting for a ruined city was worth so many dead and wounded. Syrskyi said Ukraines dogged defence of Bakhmut had damaged Russias overall war effort by tying down the Wagner mercenary group. A Ukrainian serviceman installs an electronic warfare system to quell Russian drones at the front line, near Bakhmut (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) Troops Syrskyi says his priority is the morale of his troops, whom he is regularly pictured visiting at the front. He has told Western media that he sleeps four-and-a-half hours a night and relaxes by going to the gym. Syrskyi is married and has two sons. What next? The move ends intense speculation over his fate after reported frictions between him and President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, whose authority will be tested as he seeks to rally troops under a new army chief and change the dynamic of the war. Ukrainian forces are struggling after a counteroffensive launched last June made little headway in the south and east, while Russian forces are inflicting small but costly defeats at several points along the 1,000-km (620-mile)front. Western military and financial support is no longer guaranteed, leaving Kyiv more exposed to attacks by Russian drones and missiles that are sapping Ukrainian resources. Given Zaluznhyis popularity and proven ability as an inspiring commander, the fact that Zelenskiy is replacing him may reflect the desire for a new approach on the battlefield. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Vladimir Putin has repeated a claim that Boris Johnson scuppered negotiations for a peace settlement between Russia and Ukraine, which the former UK prime minister has previously labelled nonsense. During a highly anticipated sit-down interview with former Fox News commentator Tucker Carlson, the Russian president said, via a translator, that a huge document had been prepared and approved by the head of the Ukrainian delegation, before Mr Johnson had stepped in and dissuaded Ukraines president Volodymyr Zelensky. Putin said of Zelensky: He put his signature and then he himself said, We were ready to sign it and the war would have been over long ago. However, Prime Minister Johnson came to talk us [Ukraine] out of it, and weve missed that chance. In an interview with The Times in January, Mr Johnson strongly denied the claims, which have been previously aired by Moscow, describing them as total nonsense and Russian propaganda. Mr Johnson asserted that, during a conversation with Mr Zelensky following the peace talks in Istanbul, he had expressed concerns about the nature of the potential agreement, but assured him of the UKs unwavering support for Ukraine. He said: No peace proposals or peace agreement were possible in February or March 2022. Russia entered Ukraine solely for the sake of seizing territories, killing citizens and overthrowing a democratic government. Tucker Carlson interviewing Vladimir Putin (Tucker Carlson) The former prime ministers rebuttal came following statements made by David Arakhamiya, the leader of the Servant of the People party in the Ukrainian parliament, and head of the Ukrainian delegation in talks with Russia, in November 2023. Mr Arakhamiya cited a previous visit by Mr Johnson to Kyiv as forming part of the decision not to negotiate with Moscow in 2022. Mr Johnson had allegedly said that Ukraine shouldnt sign anything with them at all and lets just fight. Speaking of the proposed negotiations, Mr Putin continued: We have never refused ... and the fact that they obeyed the demand or persuasion of Mr Johnson, the former prime minister of Great Britain, seems ridiculous and very sad to me. Because as Mr Arakhamiya put it, we could have stopped those hostilities with war a year and a half ago already. But the British persuaded us and we refused this. Where is Mr Johnson now? And the war continues. Asked where he thought Mr Johnson was, Mr Putin laughed, replying: Hell knows, I dont understand it myself. Conspiracy theories about Mr Johnsons potential involvement in peace negotiations between the two nations had previously been bandied about by US presidential hopeful Robert F Kennedy Jr. Mr Kennedy wrote on Twitter/X in June 2023: Looks like the Biden Administration deployed Boris Johnson to scuttle a tentative peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine in spring 2022. This was never about the Ukrainian people. It was always about engineering a war against Russia, For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A man who used an axe and knife to seize more than a dozen hostages on a Swiss train has been killed, police said. Swiss police say a 32-year-old Iranian asylum-seeker was killed and no passengers were injured. The man took the hostages early Thursday evening and police, alerted by passengers, sealed off the area while the train was stopped in the town of Essert-sous-Champvert, police in the French-speaking Vaud region said Friday. The man, speaking Farsi and English, demanded that the train engineer join the 15 hostages. Vaud cantonal police officers watch the Travys train where a hostage-taking incident took place at Essert-sous-Champvent... (' KEYSTONE / LAURENT GILLIERON) Nearly four hours after the incident began, police stormed the train after trying to negotiate with the man through an interpreter. More than 60 police were involved. The hostages were all freed safe and sound, a police statement said. The hostage-taker was mortally injured during the operation. Vincent Derouand, a spokesperson for the Vaud prosecutors' office, said an investigation was underway in part to determine the mans motive. Essert-sous-Champvert is in the district of Jura-Nord Vaudois of the canton of Vaud in Switzerland. It is near the French border and north of Geneva. Jean-Christophe Sauterel, police spokesperson for the Vaud canton, said there was no indication that the hostage taking was a terrorist incident. Its an unprecedented event given the number of victims, 15 hostages, and the intervention of 60 police, Prosecutor General Eric Kaltenrieder told local television. Hostage situations are rare in Switzerland but have occurred at banks and businesses. In January 2022, employees of a watch making firm were taken hostage and forced to open a vault containing precious metals. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. High Representative of the UN Alliance of Civilizations Miguel Angel Moratinos sent a congratulatory letter to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on a confident victory in the extraordinary presidential election, Trend reports. "Excellency, I wish to wholeheartedly congratulate you on winning the election and on being re-elected as President of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The election results manifest the unwavering support and trust of the people of Azerbaijan in Your Excellencys leadership and determination to strengthen unity, prosperity and peace. I take this opportunity to inform you that UNAOC is delighted to remain a long-term partner of the Government of Azerbaijan in various Government-led initiatives that promote interreligious and intercultural dialogue, including, but not limited to the Baku Process. UNAOC is a member of the international Task Force for the 6th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue (WFID) scheduled to take place on 1-3 May, 2024 in Baku. My team has already engaged in the substantive programme consultations and I look forward to personally representing UNAOC at the 6th WFID, contributing to its successful deliberations and outcomes. UNAOC remains committed to further strengthening cooperation and joint initiatives with the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan, in close coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Culture and the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the United Nations in New York. I avail myself of this opportunity to express to, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration," the letter reads. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered his army to prepare a dual plan to evacuate and attack Rafah, the last refuge for Palestinians in Gaza, despite repeated warnings from aid agencies of a bloodbath and the US saying an assault would be a disaster. Mr Netanyahu said it was impossible to achieve the goals of the war without going into the southern border city and eliminating what he claimed was the last stronghold of Hamas, who launched a bloody attack inside Israel on 7 October. In a statement he said a massive operation was needed and ordered the military and security establishment to submit to the cabinet a combined plan for evacuating the population and destroying the battalions". Mr Netanyahus announcement directly flouts severe warnings by the US, Israels closest and most powerful ally, as tensions between the two countries have risen in recent days. US president Joe Biden slammed Israels offensive in Gaza as over the top and promised his administration was working tirelessly to push for a truce, in his strongest condemnation of the conflict yet on Thursday. Im pushing very hard now to deal with this hostage ceasefire, President Biden said. There are a lot of innocent people who are starving, a lot of innocent people who are in trouble and dying, and its got to stop. Palestinians displaced by the Israeli air and ground offensive on the Gaza Strip in a makeshift camp in Rafah (AP) The US has flatly rejected Israels plans for Rafah, while the move has also alarmed Egypt, which has warned that any ground operation in the area or mass displacement across the border would undermine its 40-year-old peace treaty with Israel. National Security Council spokesperson, John Kirby, said a ground offensive in Rafah was not something we support. Vedant Patel, a US State Department spokesperson, warned pushing ahead with the assault now with no planning and little thought, in an area where there is sheltering of a million people, would be a disaster. The US is worried about an escalating humanitarian disaster in Gaza and the global repercussions of Israels bombardment of the Strip, which Palestinian health officials say has killed a staggering 27,800 people. The rising death toll and destruction threatens to trigger a region-wide war, as Iran-backed militias have pounded US military positions and global shipping routes in Iraq, Syria, Jordan and the Red Sea in retaliation. Fearing more instability, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken travelled to the Middle East this week on his fifth visit to the region to press for a hostage deal. There had been hopes for a counter-offer presented by Hamas militants which included a four-and-a-half-month ceasefire, the phased release of all the captives and the withdrawal of Israeli troops. President Joe Biden said Israels offensive in Gaza is over the top and promised his administration is working tirelessly to push for a truce (AP) However, Mr Blinken left empty-handed again, with Mr Netanyahu snubbing his calls for a truce with a message of total victory. Just ahead of Mr Blinkens own press conference in Tel Aviv, Mr Netanyahu declared talks with Hamas were going nowhere and their ceasefire offer was delusional. Israel has launched its heaviest ever bombardment of Gaza in retaliation for Hamass bloody attacks on southern Israel in which they killed around 1,200 people and took at least 250 hostage. Just under half the captives were released in a November ceasefire deal brokered by Qatar, but so far attempts for a new agreement have failed to materialise. Meanwhile, Israel has expanded its devastating ground offensive in the besieged territory, pounding the southern town of Khan Younis. It now wants to turn its attention on Rafah, home to around 1.5 million people more than half the entire population of Gaza. The vast majority are families forced from their homes from across the Strip. The United Nations has described the southern city as a pressure cooker of despair, and warned that people may have nowhere to escape to other than Egypt. Cairo has repeatedly warned that the deployment of Israeli forces along its border, and any displacement of Palestinians into Egypt, may violate the decades-old peace treaty between the two countries. Rights groups, meanwhile, warned that an offensive into Rafah would be a bloodbath. No war can be allowed in a gigantic refugee camp, Jan Egeland, secretary-general of the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), said on Friday, adding that the only humanitarian aid coming into Gaza is being delivered through the city. Expanded hostilities in Rafah could collapse the humanitarian response, the NRC added in a statement. Philippe Lazzarini, the chief of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA), said an assault on the city would bring endless tragedy. People have absolutely no idea where to go after Rafah, he added. The war has levelled vast swathes of the tiny enclave, displacing 85 per cent of its population of 2.3 million Palestinians and pushing a quarter of residents towards starvation. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A former prime minister of Israel has accused Benjamin Netanyahu of needlessly prolonging the Gaza offensive and blocking the path to peace while kidnapped hostages are left to die. In a scathing condemnation, Ehud Olmert charged that Mr Netanyahus arrogance and manipulation had led to catastrophic security failures, allowing the Hamas attack which triggered the current conflict. He also warned that right-wing messianics and extremists brought into Israels governing coalition by the prime minister, are blocking the vital need for a settlement and have plans to cleanse Palestinians from their vision of a Greater Israel. Mr Olmerts strident criticism came as Mr Netanyahu snubbed the latest international attempt at a ceasefire, declaring that the war will continue until complete victory. Antony Blinken, the US secretary of state, left his fifth visit to the Middle East in the last four months with relations between the Israeli government and Washington reportedly at their worst since the conflict began. Speaking to The Independent, Mr Olmert said: Israel has received huge support from the West, from Rishi Sunak in Britain, from Olaf Scholz in Germany, Emmanuel Macron in France and, of course, from Joe Biden, who I got to know well. They have got opposition to this support from some people at home. How much longer will they be able to continue this support if this Israeli government will not even open up a narrow window to what may eventually become a peace agreement that will end this war? Mr Olmert served as deputy prime minister, acting prime minister, and then from 2006 to 2009 prime minister of Israel, having spent many years in the Likud party now headed by Mr Netanyahu. Mr Olmert began his political career as a hawk who opposed returning land seized in the six-day war and voted against the Camp David Accords. Former Israeli prime minister Ehud Olmert at a press conference while in office in 2009 (Getty) However, he later became the chief architect of the Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and came close to reaching an agreement on a two-state solution with Palestinian Authority (PA) president Mahmoud Abbas before it fell apart at the last. He argues that there needs to be a ceasefire followed by all conceivable efforts to rescue the hostages still being held. Failure to do this and continue a military mission no longer tenable while hostages remained captive, he held, would be absolutely unforgivable and something which will never be forgotten by the people of Israel. According to the latest Israeli intelligence estimates, 32 of the more than 130 hostages still held by Hamas are dead after four months of fighting. Until now the Israeli military had confirmed that 29 had lost their lives in captivity. Hostages who were freed in a deal last November appealed to Mr Netanyahu to negotiate a ceasefire and bring their loved ones home. Olmert with Joe Biden in 2006 (Getty) Speaking at a press conference in Tel Aviv on Thursday, they spoke of their fear that the captives will pay the price for the prime ministers pursuit of absolute victory. One of them, 72-year-old Adina Moshe, said: Im very afraid and very concerned that if you continue with this line of destroying Hamas, there wont be any hostages left to release. Everything is in your hands. Another, Sharon Aloni Cunio, 34, added: Weve reached the awful moment when you must decide who lives and who dies 136 hostages now wait in tunnels, without oxygen, without food, without water, and without hope, waiting for you to save them. The price is heavy, unbearable, but the price of negligence will become a stain for generations. Mr Olmert said Mr Netanyahu was trying to hide his governments failure to prevent the Hamas massacre by continuing with military action that has plainly unachievable aims. He said: The Hamas attack on 7 October was probably the greatest military defeat in the history of the state of Israel. We had a similar surprise in 1973 [the Yom Kippur war], but that attack was against soldiers, not civilians, and the outcome was very different when the army fought back quickly and aggressively. This time the trust of our people, civilians, was betrayed. They were attacked in their homes, and for hours and hours there was no military to save them. This was a devastating defeat for our country. Hamas seized hundreds of hostages, including women and children, in the 7 October attacks (AP) The prime minister of Israel is trying to make believe this never happened. He talks about destroying Hamas and removing them from the face of the earth. This is not humanly possible, not something that can be achieved. It is impossible to destroy a terrorist organisation hiding underground in the most crowded urban centre in the world, surrounded by civilians. Even when the war ends, Mr Netanyahu appears determined to follow policies that will massively damage Israel, according to Mr Olmert. Mr Netanyahu has vowed that Israeli forces will stay in Gaza. He is also determined, he has said repeatedly, to stop the PA from administering Gaza. Hard-right members of his cabinet, meanwhile, have advocated resettling Gaza and annexing the PA-run West Bank. Mr Olmert said: Israel should not keep an army of occupation in Gaza, that would be a very bad mistake. What needs to happen is an international force, with a strong Western presence, to be there. There are plans by people in this government to take over the West Bank as well. Do we really want to impose occupation on 5 million Palestinians, deny them fundamental human rights? Freedom of speech? Freedom of movement? I know the tide of opinion turned against the idea of a Palestinian state after the Hamas attack. But I believe that in a relatively short time people will come to terms with the need for a Palestinian state; there is no alternative to this which can work. The Israeli offensive in Gaza was necessary and inevitable after the Hamas atrocity and a very strong response was needed, Mr Olmert continued. Israeli forces have repeatedly bombed Gaza, causing hundreds of thousands to flee (AP) And we have done a very good job in a vigorous, impressive manner. We destroyed their bunkers, we have killed and captured many of their fighters, we have destroyed their [missile] launch sites, he said. But now there is no longer any point in staying on just to destroy two more tunnels and kill some more people when we have hostages that need to be rescued, to be brought home to their families. This has to be done through negotiations, and those negotiations can lead to a peace agreement. More than 27,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since the Israeli military mission began, according to the Hamas-affiliated Palestinian health authority. Mr Olmert said he did not know the veracity of the numbers, but accepted there have been large-scale civilian casualties. I ordered our forces to go into a war in Gaza when prime minister, he said. You cant do that and pretend that civilians wont be killed. I do not know how you can deal with terrorists who hide among people to attack you, without the risk of that happening. Lets not forget the barbarity of Hamas, the killing of children, women, old people, the sexual abuse, the brutality: we were shocked, we were full of grief, how could we not be? Mr Olmert, paused and looked away for a few seconds before continuing: Look, the death of a baby in the hands of Hamas is heartbreaking, it is terrible; the death of a baby in Gaza is also heartbreaking and terrible. Israeli soldiers went into Gaza within days of the Hamas attack (AP) Many of us personally knew people killed by Hamas. A friend, someone I have known since kindergarten was shot and had to lie pretending to be dead for 10 hours. Her husband, a lovely man, was killed in front of her. There are so many other such stories. But I also personally know people in Gaza, know what they are going through: families who have had their homes destroyed, people who have lost relations, families who are having to hide underground, frightened. That is the reason we try for peace, to try at least to prevent this happening in the future. I speak as someone who was not accused of being soft on our enemy when I was in government, I was accused of being too hard. Mr Olmert insisted that he has absolutely no regrets about his part in pulling out of Gaza in 2005: We had to have 30,000 soldiers stationed there to protect 10,000 Israeli settlers. Soldiers were getting killed, there were constant attacks. What was the wisdom in keeping that? He pointed out that Mr Netanyahu, who is now criticising that withdrawal from Gaza, had voted for it to take place. He was also responsible, Mr Olmert added, for freeing more than 1,000 Hamas prisoners, including Yahya Sinwar, who went on to become the groups head in Gaza, in exchange for Gilad Shalit, a kidnapped Israeli soldier. Netanyahu released hardened terrorists, the worst murderers. Then he allowed money to flow into Gaza, he helped Sinwar become powerful, said Mr Olmert, his finger jabbing in the air. Netanyahu has rejected a ceasefire and insists Israel is a touch away from a decisive victory (Sky News) There was this arrogance that the situation can be controlled, he gave this image that he was the top security expert in the world, he knew how to deal with Hamas, with Iran, with Syria. His government thought they could manipulate the situation. PA they saw as a burden; Hamas as an asset. Now we see the result of that miscalculation. Mr Olmert was convicted in 2015 in Jerusalem on charges of breach of trust, fraud, and tax evasion, much of it involving campaign contributions, and served 16 months in jail. He said of the conviction: The fact is that you may be a president and prime minister, a senior politician. But when the court decides youre guilty, you have to accept that and bow your head, which I did. He pointed out that Mr Netanyahu is also facing criminal charges of corruption, fraud, and breach of trust filed in 2019. It resumed last December after a two-month pause due to the Gaza war. Mr Netanyahu, who denies the charges, did not attend the hearing. Lets see how that goes, again it is up to the court what happens to the prime minister, said Mr Olmert. Mr Netanyahus need for political survival has led him to form a coalition with the hard right, some of whose leaders want wholesale expulsion of Palestinians from Gaza and the West Bank. A senior minister has armed Israeli settlers in the West Bank who have gone on murderous rampages, driving out Palestinian farmers from their land. What is happening there is absolutely horrible, farmers being killed, their homes and olive groves destroyed. For these people in Netanyahus government, messianics and extremists, Gaza is just a preliminary stage of a bigger plan, to get rid of Palestinians from the West Bank and annex it, said Mr Olmert. What I am saying about these people is the view of most Israeli people, the international community needs to know the vast majority of the Israeli people are totally against this. We are not going to let them throw Palestinians out of the West Bank, we shall put our bodies in the way of them, we have to stop it. This is not just for the sake of Palestinians, but also of Israel, we cannot let the values we hold be destroyed by these people. But, despite the current dark days, Mr Olmert says he is full of optimism: Therell be elections in Israel and well have a new government. There are people who can provide the leadership of courage, including the courage to make peace, integrity and moral obligation. I also know people on the Palestinian side who are capable, talented and can lead their people. I am sure we will get through this together. I have great hope for the future. Sign up to our free weekly IndyTech newsletter delivered straight to your inbox Sign up to our free IndyTech newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the IndyTech email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Elon Musk is funding a court case that claims that attacks Disney for making clear that only one orthodoxy in thought, speech, or action was acceptable in their empire. The case is being brought by actor Gina Carano, and accuses Disney of unfairly firing her from her role in The Mandalorian over her tweets. She argues that she was dismissed from the company in 2021 for voicing conservative opinions on social media, including on what was then Twitter. But the case is as notable for one party who is not involved in it: Elon Musk and his company, X. It is helping to fund the proceedings, apparently as part of a commitment to free speech. Last summer, as Mr Musk was looking to promote the newly-renamed X platform as a host for free speech, he made a commitment to fund court cases brought by those who felt they had been unfairly treated because of their posts on the site. If you were unfairly treated by your employer due to posting or liking something on this platform, we will fund your legal bill, he said in a tweet in August. He made clear that there would be no limits to the funding and that anyone interested should get in touch. Caranos case, related to The Mandalorian, is seemingly also being advertised in that manner. Please let us know if you would like to join the lawsuit against Disney, he wrote in a new tweet. As a sign of X Corps commitment to free speech, were proud to provide financial support for Gina Caranos lawsuit, empowering her to seek vindication of her free speech rights on X and the ability to work without bullying, harassment, or discrimination, said Joe Benarroch, Xs head of business operations, in a statement to Reuters. But Mr Musks decision to fund the lawsuit might also be the result of personal animosity between him and Disney chief executive Bob Iger. The two have been in a public confrontation for months. That appears to have begun when Disney joined many other companies in boycotting advertising on X, last year, in response to Elon Musks apparent endorsement of an antisemitic post. Mr Musk then attacked Mr Iger on stage during an event, telling him to go f*** yourself, and said that he should be fired immediately. More recently, Mr Musk has posted a range of tweets attacking Disney. Disney sucks, he posted on Wednesday, and he shared what appeared to be an internal Disney document promoting diversity in another tweet. Disney did not immediately respond to a request for further information on the case and its dispute with Mr Musk. Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Simon Calders Travel email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Chiang Mai, lovingly known as Thailands second city, is a place where contemporary culture meets ancient tradition; a low-rise, wide spanning metropolis full of medieval architecture, hip live music venues and a deeply Buddhist population. Founded in 1296, the city sits between mountains, jungle, river and rice fields, so is in close proximity to nature on all sides with views of the mountains framing most west facing streets. The medieval moat and walls mark out the perfectly squared old city, known for its exceptional food, beautiful temples and lovely inhabitants. Its a vibrant university town, plus a hub for yoga practitioners and remote workers, so the nightlife is vibrant and diverse; youre just as likely find yourself at an EDM festival as at a Tibetan sound bath. What to do Temple hop Chiang Mai is famous for its terracotta brick temples there are over 200 of them in the city, bringing in domestic and international visitors alike. (Thais from across the country come here to make merit, Buddhist energy gathered by doing good deeds.) The oldest is Wat Chiang Man, in the heart of the old city its elephant-lined stupa has sat in situ for over 700 years. Almost as old and just as enthralling are Wat Umong, whose labyrinthine passageways were designed for walking meditation, and Wat Jed Yot, which stands out for its unusual, Indian-style design. Read more on Asia travel: Other favourites are Wat Pha Lat, set in the forest halfway up Doi Suthep mountain; and Wat Suan Dok, home to the graves of the Lanna kings who ruled the region for centuries before it was incorporated into Siam (later renamed as Thailand). If you want the stories behind the stupas, take a tour with North, the extremely knowledgeable local guide at Norths Chiangmai. The forests and hills around the city hide temples such as Wat Pha Lat (iStock) Graze on street food This is a culinary paradise, with some of the best street eats in the country on offer. Vendors sell bowls of spicy noodle soup or skewered meats on just about every main junction in the old city. To make sense of it all, join Noot and her team at Chiang Mai Foodie Tours; they lead a fantastic four-hour loop for 32 and donate the profits to a local childrens charity. Or level up your own gourmet skills with a cooking class at family-run Asia Scenic Thai Cooking School (28 for a full day) or longstanding Thai Farm Cooking School (28 for a half day or 35 for a full day). Both companies give lessons on their lush organic farms and will pick you up from your accommodation at no extra charge. Get an expert massage Chiang Mai is an epicentre of northern Thai healing principles, with some of the most unusual yet effective traditional methods in its spas and salons. Specific to the region is tok sen, a massage that utilises a wooden block and hammer to realign your muscles: try it at the Thai Traditional and Complementary Medicine Center. Another local method is pao ya or fire massage, where your therapist gently sets fire to a pool of herbs on your stomach to relieve any digestive issues. Local medical practitioners can administer this at Anantara Chiang Mai Resorts Spa. Or try a soak in a Lanna-style herbal steam room; the nicest private booth is bookable at the charming Heart N Soul spa. Communal spaces at Eleven Pillar Site, Chiang Mai (Eleven Pillar Site) Where to stay Bargain beds Chiang Mai is home to one of the biggest clusters of hostels in Thailand, many of which are enjoyably bijou and civilised. The likes of The Common Hostel, August Hostel and Sylvis Hostel will see to it that you have a social yet culturally rich time. Best of the small guesthouses in the old city is Eleven Pillar Site, which is a steal price-wise and a win for design lovers. Manager owner Jom has gone for Scandi minimalist textures while keeping a very strong Chiang Mai vibe, using local interior designers Pommballstudio and furniture makers Crop Mark to platform some of the sleekest style in town throughout his hotel. Alongside the four boutique rooms, he runs a cafe on site that serves Certified Naturally Grown- grown and roasted coffee to accompany a menu of home-cooked Thai meals, as well as a small store selling unique gifts. Rooms available from{{#price}}{{price}}per night{{/price}} {{^price}}Check availability for dates and prices{{/price}} Check availability Rates provided by Booking.com Hotel Amenities {{#amenities.foodDrink.length}} Food & Drink {{#amenities.foodDrink}} {{.}} {{/amenities.foodDrink}} {{/amenities.foodDrink.length}} {{#amenities.internet.length}} Internet Please check hotel for more information on amenities {{#amenities.internet}} {{.}} {{/amenities.internet}} {{/amenities.internet.length}} {{#amenities.services.length}} Services {{#amenities.services}} {{.}} {{/amenities.services}} {{/amenities.services.length}} {{#amenities.parking.length}} Parking Please check hotel for more information on amenities {{#amenities.parking}} {{.}} {{/amenities.parking}} {{/amenities.parking.length}} {{#amenities.health.length}} Health & Wellbeing {{#amenities.health}} {{.}} {{/amenities.health}} {{/amenities.health.length}} {{/amenities}} {{#amenities}}{{/amenities}} Also in the heart of the old city is ultra swish boutique stay, The Inside House a sumptuous architectural homage to the Lanna-era gingerbread houses of the late 1800s. Built around a tall, elegant bodhi tree, finely carved woodwork dons every corner of the hotel from the leafy poolside pavilion to the elegant lobby and restaurant. This isnt the only jawdropping feature though; 14 of the heavenly, individually designed rooms have their own private pool and freestanding bathtubs en suite. Youll be loath to leave for breakfast and high tea, so have it delivered to your door. Rooms available from{{#price}}{{price}}per night{{/price}} {{^price}}Check availability for dates and prices{{/price}} Check availability Rates provided by Booking.com Hotel Amenities {{#amenities.foodDrink.length}} Food & Drink {{#amenities.foodDrink}} {{.}} {{/amenities.foodDrink}} {{/amenities.foodDrink.length}} {{#amenities.internet.length}} Internet Please check hotel for more information on amenities {{#amenities.internet}} {{.}} {{/amenities.internet}} {{/amenities.internet.length}} {{#amenities.services.length}} Services {{#amenities.services}} {{.}} {{/amenities.services}} {{/amenities.services.length}} {{#amenities.parking.length}} Parking Please check hotel for more information on amenities {{#amenities.parking}} {{.}} {{/amenities.parking}} {{/amenities.parking.length}} {{#amenities.health.length}} Health & Wellbeing {{#amenities.health}} {{.}} {{/amenities.health}} {{/amenities.health.length}} {{/amenities}} {{#amenities}}{{/amenities}} If youre celebrating or treating yourself, head to the gloriously located Onsen at Moncham. Its a completely serene, Japanese-style luxury hotel that sits amid the rice terraces in gorgeous Mon Jam, a quaint mountainside region in greater Chiang Mai thats just 40 minutes out of the city centre. The peaceful resort has three different onsen baths to enjoy one private, one public and one for tired feet plus most rooms come with an ensuite onsen of their very own, which the staff will make for you. The in-house dining experience is an incredible seven-course affair that mirrors the attention to detail throughout every corner of the place. Rooms available from{{#price}}{{price}}per night{{/price}} {{^price}}Check availability for dates and prices{{/price}} Check availability Rates provided by Booking.com Hotel Amenities {{#amenities.foodDrink.length}} Food & Drink {{#amenities.foodDrink}} {{.}} {{/amenities.foodDrink}} {{/amenities.foodDrink.length}} {{#amenities.internet.length}} Internet Please check hotel for more information on amenities {{#amenities.internet}} {{.}} {{/amenities.internet}} {{/amenities.internet.length}} {{#amenities.services.length}} Services {{#amenities.services}} {{.}} {{/amenities.services}} {{/amenities.services.length}} {{#amenities.parking.length}} Parking Please check hotel for more information on amenities {{#amenities.parking}} {{.}} {{/amenities.parking}} {{/amenities.parking.length}} {{#amenities.health.length}} Health & Wellbeing {{#amenities.health}} {{.}} {{/amenities.health}} {{/amenities.health.length}} {{/amenities}} {{#amenities}}{{/amenities}} Where to eat Northern Thai food is a whole new genre to discover (Tourism Authority of Thailand) Classy yet full of homey character, its the decor and the service that put the home in B Samcook Home 16, with collections of plants, paintings and antiques filling the atrium-like space. Chef Boy circulates the tables to explain his seasonal seven-course tasting menu, which is also available for vegetarians and vegans, delivered by his attentive staff who make sure diners are happy and full. The careful service even extends to driving you home if youve enjoyed their wine pairing with your dinner. Book well in advance. Michelin-listed and a firm favourite with both locals and visitors, Ginger Farm Kitchen is one of three branches of Ginger Farm, who grow their own organic produce just southeast of the city. This outpost in swanky shopping quarter One Nimman serves elegantly presented and super fresh plates of Thai staples like red and green curries and Som Tum papaya salad that burst with flavour. Pre-booking is advised, particularly in peak season (Nov-Feb). Another foodie staple in nightlife hub Nimman is a Michelin-listed spot that specialises in the dish of the north: Kao Soy Nimman, who make you guessed it Khao soy. Young, hip staff serve an extensive khao soy menu that sees exceptionally tasty varieties of the flat noodle soup sold here, made to spice level perfection (not horrific, but with a good kick.) Service is fast and cheap once seated but expect a queue. Chiang Mai has a burgeoning plant-based scene and one of the first who led the way is long-standing favourite Vegan Heaven. Owner Nan offers a lengthy menu of western and Thai dishes, which includes an unmissable Massaman curry, known to be the best vegan version of the local dish available in the city. Its wise to book a table at peak times. North Gate Jazz Co-Op is a local institution (Facebook/North Gate Jazz Co-Op) Where to drink Chiang Mais coffee scene is booming, with world-class roasters launching and flourishing in the past 10 years. Leading chain Baristo is one to prioritise; both Baristo by the River and Baristo Asian Style are set in fantastic buildings in idyllic surrounds (its 2 entry fee for the latter due to the swathes of instagrammers whod come in for shoots without ordering but you can use it as credit towards your bill). Their menu of hot, iced or cold brewed coffee is extensive and baked treats like their salted caramel cheesecake go perfectly with caffeinated fare. Trendy neighbourhood Nimman is packed with award-winning coffee shops like Ristr8to Original, who lead the way with artistry and presentation, and Roast8ry Lab, who take an almost scientific approach to brewing the perfect coffee. There are also swathes of bars that stay open until the small hours; Rise Rooftop Bar stands out, with its lush mountain views and swish little swimming pool to enjoy with a cocktail in hand. Music lovers are in for a real treat in the city: theres quality live music every night of the week in Chiang Mai. Veterans of the scene, North Gate Jazz Co-op, host raucous open mics twice a week, as well as booking an eclectic range of jazz acts. Popular with the local cool kids, MaHoRee city of music specialises in traditional Lanna Thai sounds youll often run into a band with a Ranat ek player, a rare style of xylophone. Or for something funkier, check the line-up at Thapae East, the spot for blues and soul. Tha Phae Gate, part of the ancient city walls (Tourism Authority of Thailand) Where to shop The mother of all Chiang Mai shopping experiences is visiting a night market. The city has a few, but none so grand as the Sunday Night Market, aka Tha Pae Walking Street. Its a weekly jamboree of colours and flavours that reaches from Wat Phra Singh on the western helm of the old city all the way to Thapae Gate on the eastern side. Stalls are packed in and visitors shuffle along the one-way system (keep left, like the road traffic) much like all of Thailands infamous night markets, only here youll find a Lanna aesthetic which is very pro crafts, such as block printing, wax seals, watercolour postcards, quintessentially Northern Thai textiles and hill tribe handicrafts with very chunky stitching. Theres also a cascade of local foods to try here; keep your eyes peeled for Ba Bin, the coconut-flavoured mini pancakes. Additionally, the city is home to posh-yet-affordable boutiques, like the Weave Artisans Society where the annex upstairs sells designer homewares and elegant clothes that are more upmarket than those on the walking street, using big block prints and locally made fabrics. If you miss the markets, shop for gifts in Kaew Gallery, which, as well as selling pieces of art of all sizes, also has a fantastic range of artisanal jewellery, homewares and ornaments in stock. Theres more bamboo than you can shake a stick at in Wyenumpueng Changmoi Furniture. The store exclusively sells rattan bags, hats, furniture and homewares, run by an endearing old couple who will source your dream rattan item if they dont have it in stock. Round the corner Siamaya Chocolate sells exciting flavoured bars, made from locally grown cacao; the Khao Soy or Masala Chai flavours are a must to take home. Architectural highlight The Treasury Museum Chiang Mai is design bliss. A lovely bit of Tropical Modernist architecture, the building was completed in 1967 as the residence of a Northern Thai (now Myanmarese) prince, and converted to a museum in the 1990s. The pastel pink exterior, with grandiose slabs of coloured marble, will draw you in but its the wood-panelled interiors, flooded with natural light from the huge windows, that really impress. Nuts and bolts What currency do I need? Thai baht. What language do they speak? Thai. Should I tip? 10 per cent. Whats the time difference? GMT+7. How should I get around? The citys red Songthaew vans charge approximately 1 (40 THB) per journey. Motorbike taxis are the fastest option; use apps Grab or Bolt to hail them. Or rent a bicycle or a moped if you are a licensed, confident driver. Whats the best view? The view back down over Chiang Mai from the hillside temple Wat Pha Lat really shows just how wide and vast the city is. Insider tip? The best Thai massages are available in the temples. Theyre not luxurious or private, but join the locals in the big massage halls and get ironed out, cheaply. Getting there British Airways, Thai Airways and EVA Air all have direct flights to the Thai capital, Bangkok, from where you can fly domestically or lower your carbon footprint by taking a train (1014 hours) on to Chiang Mai. A woman undergoing brain surgery to remove a tumour sang the 50 American states, incredible footage shows. Jayden Zientara, had an operation to remove an astrocytoma tumour the size of her fist at Vanderbilt Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee. She was woken up just before surgery ended so doctors could test her brain functions. The 24-year-old, who works in nursing at the same hospital, suggested to her speech pathologist that she sang the Fifty Nifty state song. The surgery took 12 hours and doctors removed around 85 per cent of the tumour. Paddy McGuinness clashed with a Tory MP over the Brexit campaign promise about leaving the EU leading to 350m a week for the NHS. The comedian and TV presenter, 50, called out James Daly during an appearance on the BBCs Question Time on Thursday, 7 February. As the new deputy chair of the Conservatives launched into a defence of his party, McGuinness questioned him: Well where is it? Why is the NHS on its knees if its here? Why are they going on strike, nurses and doctors, if its here? Where is it? Viewers praised McGuinness on social media, with one commenting: Paddy McGuinness for PM. Wow. CCTV footage shows the final moments before a university student was murdered by a fellow undergraduate on 23 April 2023. Kwabena Osei-Poku, 19, was stabbed in the neck near student halls at the University of Northampton by 20-year-old Melvin Lebaga-Idubor, a student at the university. Footage shows Kwaben following Lebaga-Idubor after the latter had stolen drugs from Kwaben. Kwabena tried to get the drugs back but an altercation ensued with Lebaga-Idubor wielding a knife and stabbing him twice in New South Bridge Road. Lebaga-Idubor was sentenced to serve a minimum of 21 years, at Northampton Crown Court on Wednesday 8 February. Vladimir Putin repeated a claim that Boris Johnson hindered peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. The Russian president, in an interview with right-wing commentator Tucker Carlson, said a huge document had been prepared and approved by the head of the Ukrainian delegation, but the UK prime minister dissuaded Ukraines president Volodymyr Zelensky. Mr Johnson has denied Mr Putins claims, which Moscow has previously aired. The former PM described them as total nonsense and Russian propaganda in an interview with The Times in January. Michael OLeary called on Eamon Ryan to resign over the Green Partys opposition to raising the cap on passenger numbers at Dublin Airport Transport Minister Eamon Ryan has hit back at accusations of incompetence by Ryanair boss Michael OLeary, calling the airline chiefs comments inaccurate and inflammatory. The two have been trading verbal blows over a 32 million a year passenger cap at Dublin Airport, which Fingal County Council has applied to increase to 40 million. In an open letter to Mr OLeary on Friday, Mr Ryan said he cant intervene in the planning process and said he fundamentally disagreed with Mr OLeary, calling his allegations completely false. In his own open letter earlier on Friday, Ryanairs combative chief executive had called on Mr Ryan to resign in favour of someone competent to deliver Irelands aviation policy. Mr OLeary has repeatedly criticised the passenger cap and Green politicians who support it. In the letter, Mr OLeary also accused Mr Ryan of disappearing during the airport security crisis in summer 2022 and during recent airport closures due to drone flights. In his response letter Mr Ryan said that Mr OLeary was completely wrong and said his accusations about his handling of the security queues and drones were false. I fundamentally disagree with the arguments and content of your letter dated February 9, 2024, Mr Ryan wrote. Throughout this whole period, you have written many letters that have been highly personalised, inaccurate and inflammatory. I have invited you, through your executives, to meet with me, to discuss any issues you have face to face. Those invitations have never once been taken up. In a scathing open letter to Mr Ryan published on Friday, Ryanair boss Michael OLeary accused the transport minister of having no idea about and trying to frustrate the aviation sector. The letter escalates a row that saw Mr Ryan accuse the Ryanair boss of being "personally abusive after Mr OLeary called the Green Party leader incompetent" and an idiot. The two men have been engaged in a war of words over the Green Party's opposition to raising the 32 million passenger cap at Dublin Airport. Dublin Airport has submitted an application to Fingal County Council to expand its capacity to 40 million passengers a year. The move is backed by Taoiseach Leo Varadkar but it has been questioned by a number of Green politicians, including Integration Minister Roderic OGorman, who has made a submission to Fingal County Council. Mr Varadkar said the proposal needs to go through the planning process and that noise and sustainability concerns need to be addressed. Mr Varadkar said he disagreed with Mr O'Leary's view. Mr OLeary has repeatedly hit out Mr Ryan over recent days, including during an interview with RTEs Claire Byrne last week. The letter ups the ante in the ongoing row. Today's News in 90 seconds - 9th February 2024 Despite your almost 4 year tenure as Ireland's Minister for Transport, it is clear that you either have no idea what your own Governments [sic] National Aviation Policy is, or your are determined to frustrate this policy, Mr OLeary wrote in the letter on Friday. Over the past 4 years, while you have been Ireland's Transport Minister, you have failed to take any action to advance the goals of this National Aviation Policy. You disappeared during the security queues crisis at Dublin in Summer 2022. You disappeared again while drones closed Dublin Airport on 6 occasions during Spring 2023, and lamentably you have failed to take any action when an arbitrary and untenable traffic cap of 32m passengers now means that Dublin Airport and Ireland's aviation industry cannot grow for at least 3 or 4 years while you abrogate responsibility for National Aviation Policy to a local Council in Fingal. Other EU airports are now laughing at Ireland's "traffic cap" while they win this growth (some 15m new passengers in 2024 alone) from Ryanair, which your inaction has lost for Ireland. If you are unwilling to implement Ireland's National Aviation Policy as Minister for Transport, why don't you resign and let someone competent deliver this traffic, tourism and jobs growth for Ireland? The transport minister has been contacted for comment. The larger estate agencies have a chequered history in adding on service lines, with services like plant and machinery, fine art and financial advice coming and going. There are recent success stories in the area of ESG advice and Savills has now made a success of adding planning consultancy to its service offering. I spoke with Limerick man Raymond Tutty, head of planning at Savills. He established its planning team in Ireland in 2018, on returning from Savills UK, where he worked in planning for 11 years. The new service has bedded down well, he said, and is attracting increasing numbers of instructions in the areas of large commercial developments and residential schemes. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. A delegation of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces visited the command of the Turkish Ground Forces' chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense and security brigade, the Ministry of National Defense of Turkiye said, Trend reports. The ministry noted that the capabilities and skills of the brigade command were demonstrated to the Azerbaijani delegation. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Ian Bailey who was convicted in absentia of the murder of the French film producer, Sophie Toscan du Plantier Love/Hate star John Connors is the latest big name to be drafted into Jim Sheridans new docudrama on the Sophie Toscan du Plantier killing. The actor has been involved in the process of shooting several scenes for Re-creation, which will focus on the last moments of the French film producer before she was killed in Co Cork in December 1996. Luxembourg actress Vicky Krieps will play Sophie and was in Dublin last week working on a separate film project, in which she is starring alongside Cate Blanchett and Charlotte . Actress Vicky Krieps and murdered Sophie I didnt get to meet Vicky while she was in Dublin as I was in Portugal, Jim told the Sunday World. She is a great actress and a pleasure to work with. The Oscar-nominated director said he and co-writer David Merriman are currently in the process of editing the script and it will have a cinema release later this year. Asked who was playing Ian Bailey, the chief suspect in the case who died last month, Jim replied: We dont have anyone yet. When asked who he would like to Bailey, he chuckled: Im not going to answer that because then they wont do it. Ian Bailey who was convicted in absentia of the murder of the French film producer, Sophie Toscan du Plantier Jim, who fronted a documentary series Murder at the Cottage on the killing, recently claimed he believes Bailey was innocent of the murder. I dont really want to get into this again, he said. The documentary segments of Re-creation were shot last summer in Ireland, France and US and blended with dramatic scenes shot on a sound stage in Luxembourg. Sheridan will use fiction to question the truth of the case, acting as protagonist in front of the camera with a dramatic recreation of Sophie. Jim Sheridan Call it obsession. Call it anger. Call it justice. Call it what you want. I am still on a quest for Sophie, Sheridan previously said of his motivation for the film. Sheridan has been nominated for six Oscars and his credits include My Left Foot (1989), The Field (1990), and In the Name of the Father (1993), plus The Boxer (1997), In America (2003), and Brothers (2009). Merriman directed the award-winning documentary The State Of Being Human in 2014 and the documentary concert film Rock Against Homelessness for Virgin. John Connors is the first Irish Traveller director and is an actor, screenwriter, documentary filmmaker, playwright and human rights activist. He is best known for his role as Patrick Ward in Love/Hate, as well as Cardboard Gangsters in which he won best actor at the 2018 Irish Film and Television Awards (IFTA). His directorial debut was in 2016 with John Connors, The Travellers, which won the 2018 IFTA for best documentary series. An exhibition about the late Shane MacGowan and The Pogues will go on display in the US later this year. They Gave The Walls A Talking: The Extraordinary Story of The Pogues and Shane MacGowan is on display in Dublins EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum until March 18 and will make its US debut at the Bob Dylan Center in Tusla, Oklahoma on March 8. The exhibition illuminates the evolution of The Pogues, the rise of punk and the role of the Irish diaspora on the British music scene. Shane MacGowan was one of the greatest ever Irish songwriters, President Michael D Higgins said, as he expressed his support for the launch of the exhibition at The Bob Dylan Centre. I was honoured to present him with a Lifetime Achievement Award in Dublins National Concert Hall in January 2018. The resonance of Shanes words was reflected in the extraordinary outpouring of warmth which followed his death last November. Exhibition poster "One of the hallmarks of Shanes writing was his intrinsic understanding of the vital importance of bringing a poetic sensibility to those wonderful, evocative songs of his. "These are qualities that he shared with Bob Dylan, whose exceptional body of work rightly saw him being awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2016. They Gave The Walls A Talking first opened in December at EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum in Dublin, shortly after Shanes death and the cultural centre is pleased to send their showcase to the Bob Dylan Centre. Head of Exhibitions and Programmes at EPIC, Nathan Mannion, commented, We take immense pride in highlighting the stories and accomplishments of Irish emigrants, demonstrating that Irish identity transcends the geographical boundaries of our island. "With that in mind, we commissioned this special exhibition to celebrate one of the greatest transnational Irish bands of all time. Younger days The spectacle features contributions from family members, friends and band members including Victoria Mary Clarke, Siobhan MacGowan, Jem Finer, Nick Cave, Imelda May, Glen Hansard, producer Steve Lillywhite and the family of the late Frank Murray, the bands original manager. Niall Stokes of Hot Press said: "The Pogues were one of the greatest Irish bands of all time and Shane MacGowan was one of our most brilliant and widely loved songwriters. "As anyone who saw them live knows, The Pogues made a magnificent racket, bringing the rambunctious spirit and energy of punk rock to Irish folk and traditional music. But it was the peerless lyrics, written mostly by Shane, that gave their music its irresistible, unforgettable, emotional heft. Its these qualities which make it feel so right that the exhibition, They Gave The Walls A Talking, is having its U.S. premiere in The Bob Dylan Centre in Tulsa. Nick Cave and Shane "Bob Dylan is the greatest songwriter of them all, achieving an unparalleled mastery of the art and craft of songwriting, and producing a vast repertoire of songs of immense power and beauty over the 60 years he has been at the forefront of contemporary music. Steven Jenkins, Director of the Bob Dylan Center spoke about the good timing of the event. As a tribute to Shane, the bands remarkable artistry and a celebration of Irish music and culture, we thought it was important to bring this exhibit to the United States in time for St. Patricks Day. Shane and his sister Siobhan The Pogues created some of the most dynamic and memorable songs of the 1980s and 90s. Their best-known song in the U.S. is the Christmas ballad Fairytale of New York. Other Pogues classics include The Sick Bed of Cuchulainn, A Pair of Brown Eyes, Rainy Night in Soho, If I Should Fall from Grace with God, Misty Morning, Albert Bridge and the Ewan MacColl cover Dirty Old Town. Someone mentioned to me a while back that in his local pub in a rural town, theres a familiar scene on certain nights a queue forms outside the mens toilet. Unconfirmed reports suggest the men in this queue are waiting to snort lines of cocaine. The Pat Kenny Show (Newstalk, weekdays, 9am) in its feature last week on this Cocaine Nation of ours, started with a report from rural Ireland, and rightly so. In our great cities cocaine has been part of the social landscape for decades, but its something else again to hear a countryman from Offaly shooting the breeze about his fondness for the devils dandruff. 20ac of prime Meath land with business and residential potential guided at 22,000/ac Parcel outside Slane is near industrial park and has extensive road frontage The c20ac farm at Grangegeeth, Co Meath has a private well and had a successful percolation test in 2017 Jim O'Brien Fri 9 Feb 2024 at 08:08 Royal Meath is home to some of the best land in Ireland and a 20.3ac parcel with extensive road frontage at Grangegeeth (Valley of The Winds) north of Slane village is among the finest. Gardai are treating the death of a six year old child in Waterford as suspiciousWoman, aged in her late thirties, was arrested at the scene Sense of shock in the locality and its a terrible thing to happen in any community, councillor saysLocal priest Fr Richard OHalloran: The news is hitting hard. People are somewhat shocked Body of boy (6) discovered in car in Co Waterford The school attended by the six-year-old boy who died in Waterford late on Thursday have said the incident is a terrible tragedy. Gardai are treating the death of the boy in Dunmore East, Waterford, last night as suspicious. "We learned this morning of a tragic incident involving a member of our school community. The Gardai are currently involved "This is a terrible tragedy for the family, our school and our community. Our school has implemented a Critical Incident Plan and NEPS psychologists are supporting our school, the primary school said in a statment. Gardai and paramedics were called to a rural property late on Thursday evening amid concerns for the welfare of the occupants of a house. A six year old boy was discovered unresponsive in a car parked not far from the property. A woman, who is known to the child, was discovered at the scene. The woman, in her late thirties, was arrested at the scene and was brought to a Waterford Garda Station for questioning. She is being detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984. She was given emergency medical treatment at the scene and will also receive treatment while in Garda custody. Desperate efforts were made at the scene by paramedics to assist the unresponsive child. The youngster was rushed to University Hospital Waterford (UHW) where, despite efforts by doctors to stabilise the child's condition, the boy was pronounced dead shortly after 2am today. Gardai have sealed off the scene to allow for a full forensic and technical examination. The initial property is located outside Dunmore East and just over 20km from Waterford city. The Office of the State Pathologist has been notified. A full post mortem examination is scheduled to be conducted on the little boy at UHW. Garda sources said the nature of their investigation will be determined by the findings of the post mortem examination. However, the boy's death is being treated as suspicious given the circumstances involved. The woman arrested is understood to have been in a very distressed condition when detained by officers. Gardai are expected to commence local inquiries about when the child and woman were last seen and if neighbours heard or say anything suspicious over recent days. The Bishop of Waterford and Lismore, Alphonsus Cullinan, said the tightknit community in Dunmore East will be devastated by this heartbreaking loss. Bishop Cullinan urged the community to offer their support to those who are grieving and to uphold them in their time of need. It is with deep sorrow and profound sadness that we, the people of God, in the Catholic Diocese of Waterford and Lismore, received the tragic news of the death of a young boy in Dunmore East. Our hearts go out to the family and loved ones of the young child during this incredibly difficult time, he said. The death of a child is an unimaginable tragedy, and our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this deeply tragic loss. We extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the young boy as they navigate through this time of immense grief and sorrow. In times of such profound loss, it is important for us to come together in solidarity, compassion, and support for one another. We also express our gratitude to the emergency services and authorities involved in responding to this tragic incident. Their professionalism and dedication in handling such distressing situations are commendable. As a faith community, we will hold the family of the young boy in our prayers, seeking comfort and solace for them during this incredibly challenging period. We ask for privacy and respect for the family as they come to terms with their devastating loss. Dunmore East-based Sinn Fein Cllr Pat Fitzgerald said he knows the area well. Its a country rural community, just living out on the coast there, he said. It would be sparsely populated. There are little clusters of houses. Its a very, very, unfortunate thing to happen. God help those people. Its a beautiful little place. Its idyllic. Its coastal Ireland with little cottages and chalets. Its real rural Ireland, rural Waterford. Councillor Fitzgerald said that although its a scenic area, not many tourists would be there at this time of year. There would have been people living there that I wouldnt have known. There were a few families living there, renting properties there. Councillor Fitzgerald said there was a sense of shock in the locality and its a terrible thing to happen in any community. We dont know what happened. Our thoughts go out to the family. Its the last thing I would have expected to hear in that community. Its the worst news I could have heard this morning, or anybody around could have heard. Its the last thing we expected. This is very, very, unusual to say the least. "Anybody would be shocked, when they hear something like this, he added. Fr Richard OHalloran is the parish priest of St Marys Church, Carbally. News was still breaking when Fr OHalloran extended his condolences to the family and the community. The news is breaking slowly, he said. Having spoken to a number of people already this morning, most certainly people are all shocked to hear it. This is the second incident in recent times involving the tragic death of a young child that the locality has been dealing with, he said. Father OHalloran recently spoke at the Funeral Mass of Kobi Macharia Dooly, whose death in London sent shockwaves through the community in Tramore and beyond. The Dooly family brought Kobi back to Tramore to his paternal home, before his burial in England. Its another death of a young child in obviously distressing circumstances, said Fr OHalloran. The news is hitting hard. People are somewhat shocked. It is a country area that is out of the way. Theres a small little beach there. Thats really it. Theres a little walkway off of the beach around the coastline a little bit as well. If a number of cars went down there, they would nearly be in each others way, he said. Locals know it well, and would use it for swimming and for other activities. If you werent from the area, you probably wouldnt find it, added Fr OHalloran. Local Sinn Fein councillor for Tramore/Waterford City West Jim Griffin told RTEs News At One there is a disbelief in the area following the incident. Its just disbelief, like I said normally people come here for a sea swim or the backend of the Dunmore East cliff walk, he said. Youd see lots of people along here with their dog and thered be generally a good, upbeat day for them. But to hear this news, you probably didnt see too many people passing here today because theres just a disbelief that something like that could happen here in such a small, quiet area of Dunmore East. More to follow Pictured: Charles McClean will serve 20 years in prison for his role in three shootings. A "remorseless" criminal who called Mark 'Guinea Pig' Desmond to a drugs meeting in a Dublin park, where the gangland figure was gunned down, will now serve a global jail term of 20 years for his involvement in this and other gangland shootings. Crime New victim comes forward with claims against Bill Kenneally and says detective advised him to drop allegations Transport Minister Eamon Ryan has defended the car ban proposed for Dublin City Centre and said a gridlocked city does not serve drivers. The proposed ban expected to be in place by August would see cars prevented from driving through the city. Appearing on RTEs Prime Time, Minister Ryan said the plan aimed to reduce the number of cars in the city centre and will happen in conjunction with adding new public transport services. However, during the interview with presenter Miriam OCallaghan, the minister denied that the bus network was full of ghost buses. "Its not full of ghost buses, Mr Ryan said. "The numbers in public transport last year went up 25pc in one year. We halved the fares for those under 26 and people are flocking to public transport, he said. "The Bus Connects network is going to be introduced not just in Dublin but Cork, Galway, Waterford and Limerick as well, he added. Today's News in 90 seconds - 9th February 2024 When asked if the plan was like putting the cart before the horse, Mr Ryan said the current system wasnt working for anybody and the proposed ban on through traffic would make the city better for everyone. "Look at Pearse Street, look at Tara Street, look at the Quays, do you think that is an attractive environment? the minister said. "Its not working for car drivers because everyone is stuck in traffic, its not working for people visiting the city or working in the city, particularly people who live in the city, Minister Ryan added. "Taking out the through traffic then makes for a better environment in the city centre, he said. When challenged on the public consultation that took place on the ban, of which 3,500 people were involved, Minister Ryan said that it was a representative sample and that the local council needed to be trusted. "You do have to trust in some ways the local council. The council is backing it, the council is coming up with it and its the right thing to do, Minister Ryan said. "That change is only going to be one of the changes that has to be made to make our city better for everyone. Minister Ryan said there was a massive expansion in the spending in public transport. When OCallaghan questioned if the transport system was there yet, Mr Ryan said he believed it was. However, the minister was immediately asked about the plans for Metrolink, which has been in the planning stage for some time. The Transport Minister said he expects Metrolink to get permission in 2024, after which building can commence on the new transportation network. While various metro projects have been proposed for Dublin, none have made it to the building stage. Estimated to cost 9.5 billion, the current Metrolink plan will see a segregated, mostly underground rail system which will run between Dublin airport and Charlemont in the south of the city centre, via Swords. It is expected there will be 16 stations, and serve communities including Swords, Ballymun and Glasnevin. Minister Eamon Ryan told RTEs Prime Time that the Metrolink will be going to public hearing in the coming weeks. "The Metrolink is going to public hearing in the next two weeks, Minister Ryan said. "I expect it to get permission this year and then we start building, he added. Trinity, UCC and University of Galway among the many third-level colleges offering the new courses Higher Education Minister Simon Harris has announced the roll-out of 10 courses for students with intellectual disabilities. The courses will be delivered in 10 higher-education colleges across the country and are due to commence in the 2024/2025 academic year. Around 150 students are expected to be enrolled in the first year. The approved courses have been specifically designed to meet the diverse range of needs of students with intellectual disabilities and will include the provision of financial, pastoral and educational supports. Mr Harris has also revealed that 1.8m in funding will be provided to roll out sensory maps of college campuses to support autistic learners and anti-racism measures, particularly to challenge racism towards Traveller and Roma communities. College campuses have to reflect communities, Mr Harris said, adding: That is why we are announcing over 10m today to open up our higher education system to learners with an intellectual disability. Under this initiative, the courses will be between one and two years in length. The student will apply directly to the college involved. The colleges where the courses are available include Atlantic Technological University, South East Technological University, Dundalk IT, IADT Dun Laoghaire, Mary Immaculate College, Munster Technological University, TU Dublin, Trinity College Dublin, University College Cork and the University of Galway. Some of the courses have work placement modules, and focus on health and fitness, drama, art and design. They also teach communication, money management and computer skills. These courses have been designed with the learner at heart, Mr Harris said. Gardai have renewed an appeal to the public for information into the disappearance of a man from Iceland in Dublin five years ago. Jon Jonsson ( 41) was last seen in Whitehall on February 9, 2015 at about 11am. Gardai are appealing to the public, and in particular the authors of two pieces of anonymous correspondence received, to come forward. Mr Jonsson is described as being 6 ft tall and of medium build and had a hotel room key card from the Bonnington Hotel in his possession when he went missing. The Garda investigation into the disappearance of Mr Jonsson has continued over the last five years. Gardai said the investigation to date has created over 270 lines of enquiries and numerous statements have been taken and hours of CCTV were reviewed. However, despite ongoing investigations and enquiries, Mr Jonsson has yet to be located. During the course of the investigation, the investigation team received two items of anonymous correspondence, the contents of which have been assessed, said gardai. The Garda investigation team are appealing to the author(s) of those correspondences to make direct contact with them, said a garda statement. Any contact will be dealt with in the strictest confidence Anyone who has any information on Jons disappearance or who can assist in locating him is asked to contact Ballymun garda station on 01 6664400, The Garda Confidential Telephone Line 1800 666 111 or any garda station. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. The Russian side welcomes the successful holding of presidential elections in Azerbaijan, the statement of the Russian Foreign Ministry says, Trend reports. The statement notes that Russia is committed to further strengthen its alliance and strategic partnership with the Republic of Azerbaijan, active joint work on international and regional issues, including the implementation of the entire set of trilateral agreements at the highest level on the normalization of Armenian-Azerbaijani relations. "Against this background, the assessments of the Western countries and international structures under their control looked extremely biased, which, as we have seen, were initially extremely biased towards the presidential election in Azerbaijan and practiced pre-established methodologies to discredit the electoral process," the Russian Foreign Ministry said. The extraordinary presidential election in Azerbaijan took place on February 7. Seven candidates run in the election. According to the Central Election Commission (CEC) of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev is leading in the presidential election in Azerbaijan with 92.12 percent of the votes after the processing of 100 percent of the ballots. Zahid Oruj received 2.17 percent of the votes, Razi Nurullayev - 0.8 percent, Fazil Mustafa - 1.98 percent, Elshad Musayev - 0.66 percent, Gudrat Hasanguliyev - 1.72 percent, Fuad Aliyev - 0.53 percent of the votes. According to the results of the US-based Oracle Advisory Group and the Citizens' Labor Rights Protection League, 93.9 percent of voters cast their ballots for Ilham Aliyev. The Social Research Center said that 92.4 percent of voters voted for Ilham Aliyev. Based on the results of the exit poll of the Rey Monitoring Center, 92.6 percent of voters voted for Ilham Aliyev. For the first time in the history of independent Azerbaijan, the election covered the entire territory of the country, including 26 polling stations in the lands liberated from Armenian occupation. Stay up to date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Justice Minister Helen McEntee has said there are people who know exactly who is responsible for arson attacks on buildings earmarked for refugees and are complicit by not giving information to gardai. Ms McEntee said people in local communities withholding information are morally responsible to come forward following a serious of arson attacks on empty buildings believed to be used to house migrants. This week a building in Leixlip, Co Kildare was set ablaze after it had been falsely rumoured to be used to house migrants. While last weekend a former nursing home being considered for refugee accommodation also went on fire after protests. I think there is a lot of misinformation out there, there is a lot of people intentionally putting out misinformation and trying to create fear within communities, she told Virgin Medias The Tonight Show. "I dont think its any one person, I dont think its any one group of people, I think there are multiple people who are at fault here but I think people need to be assured that gardai are making good progress and I very much welcome that. "I firmly believe that there are people across this country today, whether they are involved in protests or not, who know exactly who is responsible for these and by not coming forward, by not giving information you are complicit in this. I am urging people who have information to come forward before one of these fires costs people their life. Minister McEntee admitted that arson attacks on buildings rumoured to be earmarked for refugees have escalated". "The level of attack and where we have seen entire buildings burned down to the ground, that has escalated, she said. "When you do not have people coming forward, when you have people essentially protecting others and when they know that they are responsible for these types of attacks, they themselves are essentially responsible, she said. The minister added that the idea of gardai having 24/7 surveillance outside every single building that potentially might be empty or potentially might be used for direct provision, thats not a credible ask for gardai. The Minister also said that the Government will reintroduce deportation flights later this year, with between 30 to 40 refugees on flights. This will be available to us if we need it, she said. "Its there as an addition to the work we are doing and I dont expect that its going to be thousands of people going out on a plane. We are talking about potentially 30 or 40 people on a plane, so yes I do expect we will have a lot more deportations this year, she added. Concerns grow as suspected cases of the virus reported in several counties Chief Medical Officer discusses the importance of the MMR vaccine in preventing measles A man who died in Mullingar Hospital after contracting measles following a trip to the UK was probably infectious for eight days, it has emerged. His death has prompted a significant tracing exercise to find people he may have come into contact with, including bus passengers. Relatives and friends of the 48-year-old from Co Westmeath are devastated following his sudden death earlier this week. The man was diagnosed with measles after presenting at the hospital. He subsequently became very ill. It is understood that hospital staff and people who travelled on the same bus as the deceased are among those being chased up on behalf of public health doctors. They are considered contacts and it is possible that they have been exposed to the virus. Medical authorities are on heightened alert following the emergence of suspected cases of measles in several counties. Three of the suspected nine cases of measles reported last week are in the midlands, with others in Dublin, Kildare, Wicklow, Clare, Limerick and north Tipperary. The deceased man is known to have recently travelled to Birmingham. That area had large outbreaks of measles and it is speculated he was infected while there. Once infected, it can take 10 to 14 days to spread in the body with no signs or symptoms. Contacts will be given advice on symptoms to look out for and those who have not received the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine will be offered the jab. The tragedy highlights the potential danger of measles. It can lead to serious complications in some cases, including pneumonia. The nine suspected cases of measles reported last week are particularly alarming as there were four cases in the entirety of last year. All the suspected cases are among children, most of whom are four years old or younger. The cases are unconfirmed but two are probable. Tanaiste Micheal Martin said the Government should launch a measles vaccine campaign, adding that he is very concerned about the risks of infection. It seems to me that we need to look at a media campaign in terms of highlighting the importance of the MMR vaccine, he told reporters in Chicago. Chief medical officer Dr Breda Smyth warned that the risk of further outbreaks is high, as vaccination rates have fallen to below 90pc. The HSE has appealed to anyone exhibiting symptoms of the virus to contact their GP by phone before presenting at a surgery. Symptoms include aches and pains, a runny nose, sneezing and a cough. Sore, red eyes that may be sensitive to light are another indication that a person may have contracted the virus. An individual may also have measles if they record a temperature of 38C or above. People are encouraged to look out for small greyish-white spots in the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, irritability and a general lack of energy. Another indication of measles is a rash that usually emerges on the head and neck before spreading to the rest of the body. Elderly patients taking up hospital beds to be moved to next available nursing home to ease winter trolley crisis A day room repurposed as a makeshift place to treat patients in Connolly Hospital in Dublin has been described as inhumane by the general secretary of the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO). A video posted on social media by the INMO shows a large room with furniture pushed to one side and a number of trolleys spaced out, with what appears to be bed sheets hung between them. The makeshift area is believed to have been used on Wednesday evening in the Dublin hospital. Im travelling to a couple of hospitals myself today where the trolley count exceeds what weve seen, Phil Ni Sheaghdha, General Secretary of the INMO said on Today with Claire Byrne. Weve been involved with our members in Connolly for example, where theyre saying to us the surge areas that is now being used by patients are so inappropriate, Ms Ni Sheaghdha said. We had examples last night for example, of a gym being repurposed very quickly, sheets from beds being placed between patients, hanging between patients to try and give them some privacy, Ms Ms Ni Sheaghdha added. Ms Ni Sheaghdha also described how this area was not near toilet facilities and elderly patients treated in the day room found it difficult to access the closest toilet. No toilet facilities available, very elderly people expressing they were unable to walk down a long corridor to access the toilet, Ms Ni Sheaghdha added. I mean its inhumane, the general secretary said. The point is when the HSE do not plan, knowing what happens every winter, this is the type of immediate reactionary solutions that hospitals are trying to find because there is simply isnt enough capacity, Ms Ni Sheaghdha added. In a statement, a spokesperson for the INMO said the day room did not have basic safety requirements. A large Dublin hospital is using a day room as a repurposed patient area. We do not believe this is ratified in patient area as there are no call bells, no emergency call systems, no oxygen or suction equipment at bedside which are basic safety requirements, the spokesperson said. The INMO also said that that their members had reported that chairs had been placed along corridors so patients could take a break on the way to the toilet. Patients do not have toilet or shower facilities as they have to walk to another area of the hospital to use the bathroom- some are elderly and infirm and cannot walk to the bathroom, the spokesperson said. Our members have reported that they have placed chairs along the corridor to allow them sit take a break en route. In the statement, the INMO said they have ask for confirmation that the area has fire officer certification. HIQA have not approved this area. The INMO has sought confirmation that this areas has fire officer certification and we have not received it. There are no staff assigned to this area so already short staffed wards are directed to send staff to this area, the INMO spokesperson said. This is not safe and clinically very dangerous as clinical oversight is required and not provided for. We must do better than this, the spokesperson said. The HSE and Connolly Hospital have been contacted for comment. A suspect arrested in connection with the violent death of a man in a Kildare apartment had been released from garda custody in another county just hours before the victims death, the Irish Independent understands. The 40-year-old criminal, who was previously himself the victim of a highly publicised crime, remains in garda custody this evening. It is understood he had attempted to clean up the scene of the stabbing in Kildare before being disturbed by a third party. He is being held on suspicion of the murder of Jeffrey Jackson (50), who was stabbed to death at an apartment in Kilcock on Thursday afternoon. The victim, who is originally from Cedar Park in Leixlip and known to the suspected killer, was found with multiple stab wounds to the neck and torso. At this stage, gardai believe the men had only been in the apartment together for a short period before the fatal stabbing and are probing a possible motive for the attack. The Irish Independent understands the suspect was detained for public order offences in a different county that day but released from custody in the hours before the killing. He subsequently made his way to the apartment in Kilcock, where he was present with the victim for a short period of time before the attack. Emergency services were alerted to the scene in shortly after 4pm on Thursday. A witness called emergency services reporting the stabbing, a source said. The suspect was at the scene when gardai arrived and it appears he was initially making efforts to clean the scene and remove any evidence of the crime when he was interrupted. The man in custody has previously served a lengthy jail term for drug-trafficking offences. Gardai are continuing to question him after he had earlier been given medical treatment for issues unrelated to his arrest or detention. A senior investigating officer has been appointed to oversee the inquiry, while a family liaison officer has been appointed to assist the relatives of the victim. Gardai remained at the scene on School Street this evening as a forensic examination continued. A garda spokesman said: Gardai are investigating a fatal assault of a man that occurred between 3pm and 4pm on Thursday, February 8, 2024, at a residence on School Street in Kilcock, Co Kildare. A man in his 40s has been arrested on suspicion of murder as part of this investigation. He is currently detained under the provisions of section four of the Criminal Justice Act 1984 at a garda station in Kildare. Gardai are appealing to any persons who were in the vicinity of School Street between 3pm and 4pm and observed any activity which drew their attention to come forward. Any road users who may have camera footage (including dashcam) and were travelling in the vicinity of School Street between 3pm and 4pm are asked to make this footage available to gardai. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Leixlip garda station on 01 6667800, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station. Fine Gael has been sent a legal letter by Independent MEPs Clare Daly and Mick Wallace over a statement made by senator and European elections hopeful Regina Doherty last week. Ms Doherty issued a statement last week calling on the pair to clarify the nature of their relationship with Latvian MEP Tatjana Zdanoka, who is being investigated by the European Parliament over allegations she has been a Russian spy for nearly two decades. The Irish Independent understands solicitors on behalf of Ms Daly and Mr Wallace sent a letter to the Fine Gael trustees in recent days regarding the statement by Ms Doherty, the former social protection minister who is seeking her partys nomination to run in Dublin for the European Parliament in June. It is believed the letter asks the party to retract Ms Dohertys statement, remove it from the Fine Gael website and apologise to the two MEPs. The letter also suggests they might be entitled to damages. Ms Dohertys statement remains on the Fine Gael website, with party sources signalling that it will not, at this stage, be removed. Ms Daly and Mr Wallace, who are seeking re-election to the European Parliament for the Dublin and Ireland South constituencies respectively, were contacted for comment but did not respond, nor did Ms Doherty oir Fine Gael. The European Parliament has launched an investigation into Ms Zdanoka, who has been accused by a Russian independent news outlet, The Insider, of collaborating with Russias FSB security services since as far back as 2005. She denies the claims. Ms Daly and Mr Wallace have taken part in a number of events with Ms Zdanoka in recent years. They voted the same way as her on several European Parliament votes related to Russias invasion of Ukraine nearly two years ago. Today's News in 90 seconds - 9th February 2024 In 2021 and 2022, they travelled to Lithuania to demonstrate in support of Algirdas Paleckis, a former politician who was convicted of spying on behalf of Russia in return for payment. Ms Zdanoka has also travelled to Lithuania to show support. Ms Daly referred to Ms Dohertys statement in a podcast on February 5 in which she addressed the links with Ms Zdanoka and criticised media reporting of the matter. I should say theres no allegations against us as being a Russian spy, except from some poor little craytur in Fine Gael who wants to run for the European election, Ms Daly said on the I4C Trouble podcast with Clare Daly and Mick Wallace. We were linked with somebody against whom there are allegations of being a Russian spy. Now, if thats who were linked with, Id say a lot of the MEPs, including a load of the Irish ones, would want to get worried because were equally linked with them on a load of stuff in the same way as were linked with her. Were not linked with anybody except ourselves, were Independent, we love our independence. Tanaiste favours a mandatory charge for 100pc returns The contentious TV licence charge could be brought down from 160 per year if it is collected by Revenue, Tanaiste Micheal Martin has said. His view puts him at odds with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Media Minister Catherine Martin, who both favour funding RTE from the Exchequer. The Coalition is split on the future of the TV licence, with ministers Michael McGrath and Paschal Donohoe both believing the annual charge should be kept. The Tanaiste said the returns from the charge, if collected by Revenue, would be 100pc and that would mean the 160 fee could be conceivably brought down. He dismissed concerns that Revenue operating the charge would be a new tax for people, similar to water charges. Mr Martin said it would not be a new charge, it just makes it mandatory, adding that the majority of people already pay it. He criticised scrapping the licence fee saying total government support for public service media in RTE, as well as radio and newspapers, would make it difficult to separate media and the Government. He warned this may lead to unhealthy consequences for democracy. The idea that a government or a central government in the future would actually be the decision-maker in respect of how much media gets every year, I think, then could lead to whole other unhealthy consequences of democracy, Mr Martin said. We may think, ah well be grand, well keep the dividing lines and all of that, but we see what happens all over the world. Thats a very serious issue which cant be just fudged. Ministers have also previously warned of the possible consequences of having RTE solely funded by the Government if Sinn Fein came into power. RTE receives around 200m a year from TV licence sales. The Fianna Fail leader said the Government will have to sign off on initial plans to overhaul the TV licence fee by the summer so that any legislation changes can be passed during the lifetime of the Government. American politicians have been praising the TV licence model and the way media is funded by the public in meetings with Mr Martin in Washington this week. In Washington people said this to me, you guys in Ireland are lucky, Mr Martin said. Here, you have a lot of private behemoths, be it Fox and MSNBC and they have very definitive political viewpoints. He said politicians always criticise and are never happy with the media and every politician gives out, complains about coverage. Stand back we have something important in Ireland and we have a job to try and get that to the public, that this is important. That media matters, it mattered during Covid-19 in particular. His comments come as two key government-commissioned reports into RTEs governance and culture are due in the coming weeks. Ms Martin has said the Government will make a decision on overhauling how the broadcaster is funded after those reports come in. Nine suspected cases of measles were reported last week, however they do not include the man in his forties who died after contracting the disease. The suspected cases have yet to be confirmed but they mark a turnaround from the figures of just four cases in the whole of 2023 and signal that Ireland looks set to see more measles outbreaks as the virus is so easily spread. All of the suspected cases up to Saturday were in children mostly under four or younger with others in children up to nine. Five are among boys and two in girls with the rest unspecified. The cases remain under investigation but two are being seen as "probable. It follows the death of man in his late forties from Westmeath who was diagnosed with measles. He had recently travelled to the Birmingham area of England which has been the scene of large measles outbreaks. The chief medical officer Dr Breda Smyth has warned Ireland is vulnerable to outbreaks because of the fall off in people getting the measles MMR vaccine which is below 90pc nationally when it should be at 95pc. The HSE said it offers MMR vaccine to protect against measles to all children as part of its childhood immunisation schedule. The HSE also offers a catch up MMR option for children aged 10 years and under who may have missed out on vaccination. The HSE will keep the public informed of further measures and, in the meantime, anyone with concerns should contact their GP. There were four measles cases reported in 2023, two case reported in 2022, no cases were reported in 2021 and five cases were reported in 2020. There were no deaths reported in any of those years. Meanwhile Micheal Martin has said the Government should put in a media campaign on the MMR measles vaccine. The Tanaiste said he was very concerned about current spike in measles cases. It seems to me that we need to look at a media campaign in terms of highlighting the importance of the MMR vaccine, he told reporters in Chicago. He said when he was Health Minister in the early 2000s there was a huge campaign against the MMR vaccine which proved to be spurious which was not based on solid evidence. Anti-vaccine campaigns too can have consequences. It seems to me too that theres a lower level of immunity now in the country in terms of the measles. Measles is a very damaging disease, particularly for children and it can kill but it can also create physical harm, disability. Signs and symptoms of measles include: Cold-like symptoms such as aches and pains, a runny nose, sneezing and a cough Sore red eyes that may be sensitive to light A temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or above, which may reach around 40 degrees Celsius Small greyish-white spots in your mouth Loss of appetite Tiredness, irritability and a general lack of energy Rash, which usually appears on head and neck first and spreads to rest of body Fianna Fail Leader and Tanaiste Micheal Martin speaking to media outside Leinster House ahead of the Fianna Faiul Parliamentary Party Pre Budget Meeting.Photo by Steve Humphreys 5th July 2023. Tanaiste Micheal Martin has said he would not rule out having an overseas-based Senator in the future. Chicago restauranteur and advocate for the undocumented Irish Billy Lawless was the first person based overseas to sit in the Seanad when he was appointed by then Taoiseach Enda Kenny in 2016. Mr Martin visited Chicago while on a US visit this week, where he announced that a brand new Ireland House would open on Michigan Avenue, or the Magnificent mile. The new Ireland House will be the home to the Irish consulate as well as other State agencies based in Chicago. A statue of Cork woman Mother Jones will also soon be erected in the city, an Irish American worker rights campaigner and union activist. She died in 1930. I would never rule that out, said Mr Martin when asked if another diaspora Senator based overseas may be appointed in a future Seanad. Billy was a tremendous advocate for Ireland and I think he was a very effective Senator. Thats something we always keep under review. He said Mr Lawless was very helpful to young people coming on J1s to the US, 3,000 of which come to Chicago every year. The issue of undocumented Irish was raised in meetings with US Senators this week, said Mr Martin, including Lyndsey Graham. Its very challenging because of the wider immigration debate in the US, very, very difficult to get agreement but were going to keep trying, said Mr Martin. He declined to give a number of how many undocumented Irish there is in the US, saying many figures are guess-timates. Mr Martin held a series of events with the Irish diaspora in Chicago on Thursday, including events in the iconic The Drake hotel. He then gave an address at the Chicago City Club before visiting the Irish American Heritage Centre on the outskirts of the city. Mr Martin held meetings with both the mayor of Chicago, Brandon Johnson as well as the Governor, JB Pritzker. There are about 50 Irish companies in the city, creating about 7,000 to 8,000 jobs and there is potential for Enterprise Ireland to attract more Irish companies, the Tanaiste said. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Secretary General and Deputy Secretary General of the Council of the Inter-parliamentary Assembly (IPA) of Member Nations of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) Dmitriy Kobitskiy and Aydin Jafarov have sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on his confident victory in the presidential election, Trend reports. Will be updated Team Ireland took home a bronze medal at the Culinary Olympics in Germany after battling it out against 66 other nations. Over 1,800 chefs took part in the international showcase event in Stuttgart this month, cooking a full three-course meal for 75 people in the junior category and 110 in the senior category. Team Ireland junior captain Chris Leech (24), who is from the village of Naul in north County Dublin described the win as a phenomenal achievement for a small nation. We are over the moon. It really shows that hard work pays off. We only signed up eight months ago and had a small budget unlike many of the bigger nations, he said. Mr Leech is a sous chef for catering company Sodexo. Following in his fathers career path, Mr Leech started off with a catering company while in transition year, and worked his way up through culinary school and worked under world renowned chef Raymond Blanc in the UK. I was thrown into the deep end from the start. I was really green while working for him and just soaked up everything like a sponge, writing everything down, he told the Irish Independent. After getting the call from the panel of chefs of Ireland, who chose the team through a combination of assessments, Mr Leech travelled to Limerick each week where the team trained for the Culinary Olympics. They worked on different recipes and dish development for seven or eight hours each session, refining their work over an eight month period, compared to other nations who prepared over the last four years. The competition, which took place between February 3-7, required teams to cook a full-three course from the Restaurant of Nations menu with 70 plates going out, four of these being to unknown judges. Teams were graded based on their service, plates and overall taste, with the main grading going towards consistency. Mr Leech said this year judges threw a curveball calling for a vegan starter for the very first time. The junior team delivered a confit butternut squash fondant with an avocado chilli mousse, a special cracker and pickles on top. For the main course, they delivered pork fillets wrapped in a burnt leek powder, carrot puree, roast carrots, a potato terrine, raised pork belly croquette, and a cabbage ball with streaky bacon and loads of butter. Teams cooked in specially-fitted glass-walled kitchens with visitors scrutinising their every move. Generally I dont work well in big groups. It was a little daunting when you would be focused and working away and all of a sudden you look up and 400 or 500 people are just staring at you, Mr Leech said. Team Ireland was made up of a senior panel and junior panel as well as two helpers, amounting to 24 people in total, with little to no fans present. They faced giants such as Sweden, South Korea and Canada who each brought four teams and close to 500 spectators. We had zero coverage, Mr Leech said. While the next IKA Culinary Olympics isnt for another four years time, the Dublin native hopes that Ireland, who begin training for it from next week, can get more people, bigger names as well as sponsors and achieve even more in terms of medals. Irelands restaurant and food quality is on the rise. We have gained 15 or 16 Michelin stars in the last five years, which is phenomenal for such a small country. With the right resources we can do a hell of a lot better next time around, he added. Overall I am very happy to be here, its just hard knowing Dlava is not here too Dlava Mohameds family are reunited with her sister after the community in Clones rallied together to bring her to Ireland It was, by all accounts, always going to be a bittersweet reunion. Six months after the death of their daughter Dlava, Mohamed and Zenab Mohamed were about to have another daughter Jihan return to their family after eight years apart. As they stood at the arrivals area in Dublin airport, watching and waiting, the face they had been waiting to see for so long finally appeared. It was very emotional, Jihan told the Irish Independent. I was very happy and very sad because my sister had passed away. We were all crying. It was like a dream but its mixed emotions. Dlava Mohameds family are reunited with her sister after the community in Clones rallied together to bring her to Ireland Jihan Mohamed (24), remained in Syria when her family first came to Ireland in 2018 under the Syrian resettlement scheme. Engaged at the time to her now-husband Jumma, she has spent a total of eight years away from her family due to war. In July, when her younger sister Dlava was killed in a car crash with her best friend Kiea McCann, Jihan learned of the news while thousands of miles away from her family. Not only was her sister dead but another sister, Avin, who was also in the car when it left the road and crashed into a tree, was seriously injured. The group were going to their debs ball at the Westenra Arms Hotel in Monaghan Town on July 31. Plunged into unspeakable grief, the Mohamed family turned to the local community in Clones for support. It was a devastating time, said Sascha Cumisky, a teacher at Largy College, where Dlava and Kiea were students. Dlavas parents, the sacrifices they made to keep their children safe and give them a better life, you wouldnt believe what they went through. "Then for them to come to a safe country and on an evening of celebration for what happened to happen. It was just heartbreaking. Dlava Mohamed was tragically killed in a road accident last year Ms Cumisky first met the Mohamed family when another daughter Lilav arrived at Largy College in 2018 to begin Transition year. She came in the summer and had no English. By September, she was fluent. She was just a remarkable student from the get go, said Ms Cumisky. She came into Transition year and she was just studying, studying, studying so much. She was so dedicated to her education. As we got to know her, she opened up about her family story from when they left Syria, the journey that they had and the refugee camps in Greece, about the different things that had happened to them in Syria and what happened to their home. "Just horrific stories, bit by bit being shared. We heard through Lilav even at that early stage about Jihan being at home in Syria. We heard that she had a little girl and then we heard that she was pregnant and baby Lilav came along. I suppose in lots of ways, we were in touch with Jihan. Hearing lots about her life through the years through Lilav. When tragedy struck last summer, Lilav, while grieving the loss of her sister, became the person her parents and siblings relied on. She is fluent in English so Lilav would have been dealing with a lot on their behalf at that time, said Ms Cumisky. She put her own grief to one side and just made sure everyone else was taken care of. It was a lot. She was minding everyone. The details of the crash that claimed the lives of Dlava and Kiea, with both girls dressed in their debs gowns when they were found, led to a nationwide outpouring of grief. Two young girls, setting out on what was supposed to be one of the best nights of their lives, cut down in their prime. Both families received messages of support from all over the country and beyond in the days and weeks that followed. People with influence were all saying if there is anything I can do, please let me know, said Ms Cumisky. When the tragedy happened the only thing Dlavas mum asked was if there was any way anyone could help get Jihan, her children and husband home to her family. "So basically, myself and a few others in the school who knew the children and knew the family said we would try and hold people to their word. We contacted a number of local TDs and other contacts and started to get the ball rolling. Local TD Niamh Smyth had visited the Mohamed family and spoken to them about their hopes to bring their daughter Jihan home. I met with them in the house and we talked about Jihan, said Ms Smyth. After that, I followed up with the school and tried to do as much as I could. I raised it with Micheal Martin and through parliamentary questions. I did what I could but it was the community in Monaghan who made this happen. The Mohamed family, supported by the community in Clones, appealed to Minister Helen McEntees office for their daughter Jihan and her family to be granted visas to come to Ireland. They were granted a special join family visa by the Department of Justice on compassionate grounds but had no passports to travel. The coffin of Dlava Mohamed is carried from Clonskeagh Mosque in Dublin after her funeral. Photo: PA It was at this point that Ms Cumisky, who was advocating for the family, was directed to the Irish Red Cross. We were able to help with the travel documents because they didnt have passports, said Deirdre Garvey, Secretary General of the Irish Red Cross We also provided the money for the airfares. For the Mohamed family the suffering of being separated from their daughter Jihan for eight years and losing their daughter Dlava so tragically last summer was immense and touches the core of us all. "Reuniting families is a fundamental part of the Red Cross movements mandate so we were delighted to be able to assist. The combined efforts of all involved resulted in an emotional reunion at Dublin Airport last week. There, Jihan, her husband and their three young daughters were met with open arms by the Mohamed family. There were tears of joy as they emerged into the arrivals hall. The only thing that is important to me is being with my family, said Jihan. Thats all that matters. Overall I am very happy to be here, its just hard knowing Dlava is not here too. Today, at a celebration for the reunited family in Clones, Jihan spoke about seeing her sister Avin, who is still recovering from her injuries, for the first time in eight years. Avin told me not to cry and I told her not to cry as well, she said. And then we started to laugh. It was very hard not to cry. The meeting was very emotional, because of the accident. There were a lot of tears. Lilav said her family are still learning to live with the loss of Dlava and that although six months have passed, their grief is still very raw. It hasnt been easy at all to be honest, she said. We are not the same at all. No matter how many days pass, something is missing, but Jihan and her family being here, its great support, it makes it easier. Dlava Mohameds family are reunited with her sister after the community in Clones rallied together to bring her to Ireland John Bruton was taoiseach between 1994 and 1997 (Chris Bacon/PA) A State funeral is to be held for former Taoiseach John Bruton on Saturday. Mr Bruton died at the age of 76 after a long illness. A removal will be held on Friday evening to Saints Peter's and Paul's Church in Dunboyne, Co Meath at 7pm. The funeral mass will take place there at 11am on Saturday followed by burial at Rooske Cemetery in Dunboyne around 1pm or 1.30pm. State funerals typically involve the deceased being given a guard of honour by members of the Defence Forces and the coffin being draped in the Tricolour. The guard of honour is provided by around 300 members of the Defence Forces and the coffin is carried by a gun-carriage. The Last Post is sounded, a tradition that has remained from Irelands time as a Commonwealth nation. Flags at Government buildings will fly at half mast until after Mr Brutons funeral. State funerals are normally reserved for sitting and former Taoisigh and Presidents, though a number of State funerals have been held for other significant figures. Officially, a State funeral may be held for any other personage to whom the Government decides to accord such a funeral besides a Taoiseach or President. Not every former Taoiseach who has died was given a State funeral the families of Liam Cosgrave and John A Costello turned down the honour. Gardai who died while on duty, including Jerry McCabe in 1996 and Tony Golden in 2015, have historically been given a State funeral. The first State funerals were held in August 1922, for Arthur Griffith on August 16 and for Michael Collins 12 days later. It was reported in 1948 when WB Yeats remains were being repatriated from France that the Government had offered a State funeral, but it was not held at the familys request. Some State funerals have taken place years after the death Easter Rising leader Roger Casement received a State funeral when his remains were reinterred from Pentonville Prison in 1965. Patrick Pearses mother Margaret received a State funeral, as did his sister Margaret Mary, who was a sitting Senator when she died in 1968. Lying in state, where the body of the deceased is held in a state building for members of public to pay their respects, is an honour reserved exclusively for Taoisigh and Presidents. Including Mr Bruton, a total of 47 State funerals have been held in Ireland. A Victoria Cross awarded to Edmond (Edward) Jennings of Ballinrobe, Co Mayo, is going under the hammer at Noonans in London on February 14. The British military medal is awarded for acts of the greatest heroism or of the most conspicuous courage in circumstances of extreme danger. Jennings was a Rough Rider (mounted soldier) in the Bengal Horse Artillery during the Relief of Lucknow, 1857. There are different accounts of his act of gallantry. The best story has him responding to a cry for help in the streets of Lucknow, jumping his horse over a wall to find an officer under attack, fighting off the opposition, slinging the wounded officer across the back of his horse, and bringing him to hospital. The medal is estimated to fetch 20,000 to 30,000 (23,368 to 35,052). In recent years, Irish Victoria Crosses have done extraordinarily well at auction. A group of six medals awarded to Patrick Donohoe, including a Victoria Cross, sold at Dix Noonan Webb for 220,000 (257,181) in January 2022. Edmond Jennings' Victoria Cross medal. Photo: Noonan's Donohoe, who came from Nenagh, Co Tipperary, was a private in the 9th Lancers during the Indian Mutiny. He was also awarded the VC for going to the aid of a severely wounded officer, this time at the Battle of Bolondshuhur, 1857. In September 2023, a Victoria Cross won by Thomas Henry Kavanagh of Mullingar, Co Westmeath, fetched 930,000 (1.075m) at Noonans, setting a world record price for the medal at auction. Like Jennings, Kavanagh was involved in lifting the siege of Lucknow, but played his part as a civilian. On his return to Britain, Kavanagh shamelessly milked his success he wrote a book, went on tour and became a Victorian icon. The stratospheric auction result was fuelled by the legend Lucknow Kavanagh built around himself. He had a lot of hustle that still pays off today. Jennings, in contrast, melted into obscurity. He ended his days as a corporation scavenger or road sweeper in North Shields, England, and was buried in a paupers grave. His medal is unlikely to fetch the price of Kavanaghs, but there are several interesting things about it. Edmond Jennings was awarded the Victoria Cross once, but there are two medals carrying his name. The most likely explanation is that Jennings medal was sent out to India, along with the other Bengal Artillery Victoria Crosses, and presented to him there. Queen Victoria wished to decorate him in person at a ceremony in Windsor in 1860 and another cross was made, but Jennings ship was delayed and he failed to turn up. At some stage, having fallen on hard times, Jennings sold his military medals and these found their way back to his regiment. The VC he actually received is now held by the F (Sphinx) Battery, 7th Parachute Regiment, Royal Horse Artillery (the successor to Jennings unit), together with his campaign medals. The other is for sale at Noonans. Since the Victoria Cross was introduced in 1856, there have been around 200 Irish recipients 59 of these were awarded for actions during the Indian mutiny of 1857. Thats a lot of heroic Irish soldiers fighting to preserve the British Empire. Why? Look at the dates. In the aftermath of the Great Famine (1845-1952), there were very few options in Ireland. For young men, enlisting in the army was an alternative to starvation. Its no wonder they were brave. A group of six medals awarded to Patrick Donohoe, including a Victoria Cross. Photo: Dix Noonan Webb Many of them were already traumatised and had very little to lose. Often, their stories have been lost in time because (a) poor people are poorly documented and (b) fighting for the British didnt suit the Irish nationalist narrative. In 1997, following an appeal for funding, a headstone was placed on Jennings hitherto unmarked grave in Preston Cemetery. In 2011, local historian Avril Staunton wrote an article on Jennings for the Historical Ballinrobe website. This provoked an interesting reaction. John Murphy wrote on the comments page: For what its worth, my mother, one of the Joyces from Kilbride, told me that Jennings VC came from the wood in Kilbride. She said that his family were evicted and their house destroyed. During the eviction, he killed one of the bailiffs or one of the RIC men protecting them. He managed to get away to England and later joined the British Army. Like much local history, the story is unverifiable, but also believable. In 2021, it was the subject of a short radio drama The Scavenger Of Low Town by the North Shields Heritology Project. See noonans.co.uk. Over the past week, we have seen that many people in Ireland, including in politics, are pursuing a goal of expanding Dublin, contrary to the Governments policy of balanced regional development. Despite all the published plans and frameworks, the Governments Dublin-centric focus has never changed. In public, politicians will say that building up our regional cities is important. In private, they will argue that Dublin must grow so it can compete with larger European cities. We have seen two clear examples of this over the past week. Never take the intentions of voters for granted. Having seemingly been on a direct path to power, Mary Lou McDonald has had a stumble. A series of opinion polls shows Sinn Feins significant lead in public support has been pegged back. Last weekends Sunday Independent/Ireland Thinks poll showed support for Sinn Fein at 29pc, down one point compared with last month, but on a slide over recent months. Then the latest Irish Times/Ipsos B&A poll gauged support for the party has dropped to 28pc, a six-point decrease from the previous poll in September. The party is now at its lowest ranking in three years, with the leap in support from the last general election being negated. Notably, this support is not going to Fianna Fail and Fine Gael, implying a drift among voters. Ms McDonald has had a rocky few months, with her suggestion that the price of a house can be magically reduced to 300,000 never quite being explained. Making house prices more affordable is, of course, a desirable policy in an overinflated market, but it will not happen just because a party leader thinks it. Sinn Fein wants to talk about being in government, but does not accept this comes with scrutiny of its policies. The knee-jerk reaction to the Dublin riots, seeking the resignation of the justice minister and garda commissioner, was a populist stunt that was ill-befitting of a party supposedly on the brink of power. Ms McDonald also did a U-turn in recent months when she went from not calling for the expulsion of the Israeli ambassador to supporting such a proposal. The party has been performing contortions in trying to explain its support for Palestine versus its attendance at St Patricks Day celebrations in Washington when the US is the biggest backer of Israel. The party has taken a brave stance on immigration, largely supporting the Governments policy on a rights-based asylum-seeker system and providing accommodation for refugees. Ms McDonald has sought to nuance the partys position by criticising the Coalitions handling of immigration and saying it was a mistake to afford Ukrainian refugees special status, as was agreed by the EU after Russias invasion. However, the party is not outright opposing the Government on such matters, so it seems to be more about positioning on an issue garnering more attention. Ms McDonald is back in her comfort zone now, talking about a united Ireland. She is saying there will be a united Ireland referendum by 2030. DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson says she must have the longest arms on this island to state Irish unity is within touching distance. Similar to Brexit, calling for a referendum and being ready for the outcome are entirely different propositions. The immediate priorities for voters in the North, after the restoration of the power-sharing executive, is delivery on legislation and public services. On this side of the Border, housing is a primary concern. While Sinn Fein has captured a mood, it still has to convince. Sixteen years ago, Declan Ganley, an English-born businessman who had moved to Ireland as a teenager, inserted himself directly into the Irish political landscape when he founded the political party Libertas. For a brief period, Ganley who advocated for a No vote on the Treaty of Lisbon and also helped spearhead the pro-life campaign ahead of the abortion referendum - seemed to hold as much political swing as anyone in the land. But how did he get to that point and what happened next? Quite a lot, actually. Ganleys exit from politics wasnt the end of his story. Since then, his Rivada telecommunications company has positioned itself to try and compete with Elon Musk's Starlink satellite company in a battle for the skies. But it hasnt been plain sailing, as Ganley has been involved in several instances of litigation, including a $20m dispute with a former colleague and friend which is currently unfolding in a New York courtroom. On todays The Indo Daily, Fionnan Sheahan is joined by Irish Independent Political Correspondent John Downing, and by John Burns, Deputy Group Business Editor with Mediahuis Ireland. This weeks episode of First Dates saw two candidates from County Cork enter the restaurant hoping to find love but, ultimately, leaving without a second date. The recent episode started with teacher Richard (28) from Cork being matched with falconer Caoimhe (27) from Galway. The pair initially hit it off and laughed about star signs of previous exs and shared work stories. I dont believe theres just one person and I need to find that one person. I think you can find someone that youre compatible with and, if the timings right, then you can work and build on a relationship, said Caoimhe. The pair shared stories of past relationships, with Caoimhe revealing the last seven months being single has been her longest stint without a relationship since she was 15-years-old. When talking about travelling, Richard revealed that he had recently converted to Buddhism after a break-up, and a dream of his is visit India and Japan. This is like a whole new world. Every day I put myself out of my comfort zone and do something I never would have dreamed of doing thats hard. Every day I come out of it feeling amazing, he said. The pair encountered a slightly awkward moment when discussing having kids and the convention of marriage as they differed in opinion. As the date came to a close and the bill arrived, Caoimhe offered to pay in full and Richard allowed her, an act not usually seen on First Dates. When asked would they like to see each other again, Richard said no while Caoimhe revealed that she would have said yes. Stating that they didnt resonate on each other's energies, Richard said they were at different stages in their lives. "My ethos is if you're splitting the bill that means you don't want to see each other again. So if he didn't want to see me again maybe he should have suggested to split it," Caoimhe said to the camera. The second date of the episode paired Law student Brian (21) from Blarney in Cork with Dublin man Thomas (23). The two warmly greeted each other and Brian joked about a long distance relationship when learning Thomas lives in Dublin. Brian gifted Thomas a heart-shaped keychain at the start of the date and said he didnt want to bring flowers in case he was allergic to pollen. I think I come across overly eager, which I tend not to be internally, so the chill people think Im way more interested than I actually am, and the people who are looking to latch onto someone think, ooh, weve got him now, said Brian. While speaking to Thomas, Brian shared that he has autism and spoke of how people react to it. I think people perceive me as very analytical, because Id be autistic, right? So I think the way I think is just a little bit different to other people. Sometimes everyone is on the same wavelength but me, and Id have to ask a few more questions to make sure I know whats happening. Im well able for all the things that everyone else can do, but Im not under their system if I dont give myself time to learn it. It doesnt make me less than, it just makes me different, he shared. The pair discussed their dating history over dinner, with both revealing theyve never had boyfriends. They laughed over bad dates, dating app stories and talked about icks. My approach to finding a soulmate, and its such an Irish thing, but would your mom like them? Im hoping to find someone that your moms not asking why did you bring him into my house? said Thomas about finding the right person. When the bill arrived Brian quickly grabbed the docket and insisted on paying and while it was clear Thomas wanted to go halves, he let Brian pay. When asked would they see each other again romantically, the pair both agreed to being just friends, saying there were good vibes on the date but no flirting. And Brian finished the date by joking that he doesnt own a private jet to travel from Cork to Dublin to see Thomas. People are being encouraged to take part in events celebrating the fascinating world of trees A number of native trees are being offered to schools, community groups and organisations in Cork in celebration of this years National Tree Week. The week, which will run from March 3 to 10, is an initiative of the Tree Council of Ireland and is aimed at celebrating the folklore and the practical application of trees as well as emphasising the importance of a healthy and native tree stock. This is Cork Newsletter Enter your email address below and click 'Sign Up' to receive the This is Cork newsletter direct to your inbox. Please check your inbox to verify your details In honour of the week, Cork County Council have 1,000 trees for planting which they will allocate to different groups throughout the county, and those interested can contact corkheritage@corkcoco.ie. The council are also inviting people to organise and participate in events such as forest and woodland walks, nature trails, woodturning displays poetry readings and talks relating to the fascinating world of trees. The Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Frank OFlynn, is encouraging schools and local organisations to get involved in this years Tree Week. Trees are a critical part of our environment and support life in a myriad of ways, from climate change mitigation to our own well-being. I strongly encourage everyone to engage in the week, to learn more about natural heritage and perhaps find the time to plant a tree or two. According to the council, National Tree Week has been responsible for planting over half a million trees in Ireland, including over 4,000 in County Cork in the past 5 years alone since its inception in 1985. As noted by the Tree Council of Ireland, Planting and establishing trees is widely recognised as a crucial component of addressing environmental challenges and promoting a sustainable future. By J. Keeler Johnson ("Keelerman") Twitter: @J_Keelerman One of the most challenging to handicap Road to the Kentucky Derby prep races so far this year is coming up on Saturday at Tampa Bay Downs. That's the $250,000 Sam F. Davis S. (G3), which has drawn an ultra-competitive field of 11 colts and one gelding to race 1 1/16 miles. One reason why the race is so competitive is the fact none of the dozen entrants have run particularly fast on the Beyer or Brisnet speed figure scales. The highest Beyer Speed Figure in the field is an 83, while the highest Brisnet Speed rating is a 94. This means it won't take much improvement for a longshot to challenge for victory. In sorting through the contenders, I was initially drawn to #6 Agate Road. Trained by Todd Pletcher, who has won the Sam F. Davis a record seven times, Agate Road has shown plenty of talent on turf. Last year, he unleashed a giant homestretch rally to win a 1 1/16-mile maiden special weight at Saratoga, after which he rallied to win the Pilgrim S. (G2) and finish fifth (beaten only 2 1/2 lengths) in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf (G1). Agate Road also ran well in his three-year-old debut, finishing second in the Dania Beach S. at Gulfstream Park. That one-mile contest featured slow early fractions of :25.32 and :50.08 set by a gate-to-wire winner, so Agate Road ran deceptively well to sprint his final quarter-mile in approximately :22.52 and finish only 1 1/2 lengths behind. But... even though Agate Road finished second by a nose when debuting on dirt in a one-mile maiden special weight at Saratoga, I question whether his performance that day is a true indication of dirt prowess. The race was rained off the turf, and the final quarter-mile elapsed in :27.99, so Agate Road's rally after a slow start was aided by a sharply decelerating pace. That's why I've settled on #7 Copper Tax as my choice to win the Sam F. Davis. The son of Copper Bullet is bred for speed, and I'll admit 1 1/16 miles may stretch the limits of his stamina. But it's encouraging to note Copper Tax dominated the one-mile Rocky Run S. at Delaware Park as part of a five-race win streak last year, leading all the way to prevail by 6 3/4 lengths over a field including next-out Inaugural S. runner-up #4 Crazy Mason and recent Swale S. winner Frankie's Empire. Copper Tax earned an 81 Beyer in the Rocky Run and followed up with an 82 when rallying to win the six-furlong James F. Lewis III S. at Laurel Park by a neck over next-out Gulfstream allowance optional claiming winner Inveigled, who finished fourth in the Holy Bull S. (G3) last week. On the Brisnet scale, those victories yielded back-to-back 94 Speed ratings, so Copper Tax ranks among the fastest horses in the Sam F. Davis field. Some bettors will hesitate to support Copper Tax because he faltered in his first Road to the Kentucky Derby foray, finishing sixth by 14 3/4 lengths in the 1 1/8-mile Remsen S. (G2) at Aqueduct two months ago. But the Remsen took place over a strongly speed-favoring track, so Copper Taxracing in midpack while losing significant ground around the turnsnever had a fair chance to win. From all appearances, the Remsen was a deep race. Third-place finisher Drum Roll Please returned to win the Jerome S., seventh-place finisher Domestic Product bounced back to run second as a longshot in the Holy Bull, and Le Dom Bro and Billalninth and eighth in the Remsenimproved to finish second and fourth in the Swale. Assuming Copper Tax encounters a fair track in the Sam F. Davis, I think we'll see him bounce back with a big run. He enters off back-to-back one-mile workouts at Laurel Park, which will hopefully build his stamina, and his versatility in terms of running style affords him options for working out a favorable trip. I'm willing to bet Copper Tax can spring a small surprise at Tampa. Still, multi-race bettors might want to use #9 Change of Command for good measure. The Shug McGaughey trainee has made steady progress since debuting with a fourth-place finish at Saratoga behind future Breeders' Cup Juvenile (G1) winner Fierceness. Change of Command enters off maiden special weight and $75,000 allowance optional claiming victories at Gulfstream Park, and on the Beyer and Brisnet scales he's more or less as fast as Copper Tax. McGaughey has gone 7-for-14 (50%) at Tampa since December, and Change of Command is adding blinkers for his stakes debut, so there's a lot to like about his chances. Now it's your turn! Who do you like in the Sam F. Davis? ***** Want to test your handicapping skills against fellow Unlocking Winners readers? Check out the Unlocking Winners contest pagethere's a new challenge every week! (Please note: older contest entries can be found here.) ***** The Unlocking Winners Road to the Kentucky Derby Handicapping Challenge is back! Check out the special contest page to play along. J. Keeler Johnson (also known as "Keelerman") is a writer, videographer, voice actor, handicapper, and all-around horse racing enthusiast. A great fan of racing history, he considers Dr. Fager to be the greatest racehorse ever produced in America, but counts Zenyatta as his all-time favorite. Abbas Ganbay President of the International Turkish Academy Academician Shahin Mustafayev met with Deputy Foreign Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan Alibek Bakayev, Azernews reports, citing Turkic Academy. It was reported that the Deputy Minister was first familiarized with the museum of the International Turkish Academy, and he was presented with published scientific works. At the meeting, Academician Shahin Mustafayev drew attention to the report on the activities of the International Turkish Academy for the past year and informed about the current projects. Later, the sides exchanged views on upcoming joint events. Alibek Bakayev said he was ready to support the initiatives of the International Turkish Academy. The meeting was attended by Tilezhan Seksenbay, Advisor to the President of the International Turkish Academy, Oljas Togizbaev, Deputy Director of the Middle East, Middle East and Africa Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Director of the Multilateral Cooperation Department, as well as Asem-Darya Abayeva and Dinmuhammed Ametbek, experts of the Academy. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Secretary General of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) Kairat Sarybay has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on his confident victory in the presidential election, Trend reports. "Your Excellency, I extend heartfelt congratulations on your re-election as President of the Republic of Azerbaijan. This momentous occasion reflects the continued trust and confidence that the people of Azerbaijan have placed in your leadership. Under your visionary guidance, Azerbaijan has achieved remarkable success. Your steadfast commitment has led to the establishment of an independent, modern, sovereign and integral new Azerbaijan, building upon the strong foundations laid by the esteemed national leader Heydar Aliyev. I commend Azerbaijans increased role and influence in international affairs, both regionally and globally. The successful completion of the chairmanship in the Non-Aligned Movement and the forthcoming hosting of the 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP29) demonstrate Azerbaijans strong advocacy for a multilateral approach to addressing pressing global challenges. Furthermore, I express gratitude for your unwavering support of the CICA. Your Excellencys dedication to fostering cooperation and dialogue within the region is truly commendable. I look forward to continuing collaboration with Azerbaijan on various CICA agenda items, especially on the implementation of CICA confidence building measures in the field of the development of secure and effective systems of transportation corridors, where Azerbaijan serves as the coordinator. I wish you continued good health, success and prosperity as you embark on another term of leadership. May Azerbaijan continue to thrive under your guidance, contributing to sustainability, peace and prosperity in the region and beyond," the letter reads. There was a 12pc increase in footfall at Mallow Swimming Pool in 2023 compared to the footfall statistics for the previous year. The figures were outlined at a recent Kanturk-Mallow Municipal District meeting by Municipal District Officer Claire Barr. Ms Barr provided the necessary figures following a motion from Cllr Gearoid Murphy seeking an annual update on the operations of Mallow Swimming Pool. Fianna Fail councillor Gearoid Murphy said the motion was put forward to source more information on the operations of the pool. It is a fantastic facility. This motion is really just to get a periodic update about the operations of the pool on an annual basis, to find out things like footfall and the many local clubs and schools that make use of the pool. Of course, very importantly if there is anything which we can do as a Municipal District to support this swimming pool, he said. This is Cork Newsletter Enter your email address below and click 'Sign Up' to receive the This is Cork newsletter direct to your inbox. Please check your inbox to verify your details It is such a valuable resource for the local area, said Cllr Murphy. Mallow Swimming Pool is one of the most important facilities in the local area which Cork County Council have operational and responsibility for. It is not only the main swimming pool in Mallow, alongside the Hibernian Hotel Swimming Pool. It is in fact the local swimming pool for almost the entire municipal district. Fine Gael councillor John Paul OShea supported the motion. A report back on it would be appropriate. A lot of people dont associate Mallow Swimming Pool with Cork County Council even though we fund it on a continuous basis. I recommended that we should always have Cork County Council logo on everything that Mallow Swimming Pool does. They have their own logo, but there should be a County Council logo as well. It is a pool for the entire district. We should be proud of that and promoting that, he added. Labour Party councillor James Kennedy echoed the sentiments of his colleagues as he said the pool is a huge facility for the region. Claire Barr the Municipal District Officer informed the councillors that a representation from Mallow Swimming Pool will attend Aprils MD meeting for a presentation. Ms Barr then proceeded to outline a number of highlights with regards to the daily use of the pool. We were up 12% in footfall in relation to 2022 to 2023, so we are rising the whole time. The opening hours are Monday to Friday, 5.30am to 10pm, Saturdays from 6am to 8pm and Sundays 8am to 5pm. That is a total of 105.5 hours a week we are opened. The pool has a vibrant club use, said Ms Barr. There are over 50 schools attending Mallow Swimming Pool. North as far as Dromcollogher-Broadford, South as far as Blarney, East as far as Carrignavar and Castletownroche and West as far as Newmarket and Millstreet. We have Mallow Masters Tri Club, Mallow Swans Swimming Club, Mallow Marlins Special Olympics and we have nine swimming lesson classes continuously sold out, she added. The city centre is expected to be hit by tidal flooding this weekend Householders and business owners have been urged to erect flood barriers ahead of Saturday morning's high tide. Residents and business owners of Cork city centre have been urged to protect their property ahead of tidal flooding events expected for this weekend. Flooding is expected to be most severe on Saturday morning and Cork City Council will be closing Sharmon Crawford Street and Wandsford Quay to traffic from 5.15am to 6.30am. The council said that there will be a period of very high astronomical Spring Tides from this Friday evening until Sunday, while a tidal surge is also forecast during this time. It said that roads and parking areas across low lying city quays will experience some flooding at times of high tide. High tides are predicted for 5.20pm on Friday evening, 5.45am and 6.05pm on Saturday and 6.30am and 6.49pm on Sunday. Saturday mornings tidal event is expected to be the highest, and the local authority has encouraged householders and businesses to erect flood barriers this evening and leave them in place overnight. Flooding is expected on Morrisons Quay, Fr Mathew Quay, Fr Mathew Street, Union Quay, Trinity Bridge, South Terrace, Rutland Street, Sawmill Street, Crosses Green, Sharman Crawford St, Wandesford Quay and South Mall (particularly the southern side). Motorists have been advised not to park on any of these streets on Friday night into Saturday morning. According to the council, road flooding will likely occur on Saturday morning on Kyrls Quay, Lavitts Quay, Lapps Quay, Probys Quay, Frenchs Quay and Sullivans Quay. Road users are advised to travel with extra care and attention on Saturday morning from 5:15am-6:30am as it is likely that roads could have surface water. Drivers have also been asked to avoid travelling on flooded streets. The council said that there is no river or rain flooding predicted this weekend across most of Cork, and that only the city centre is expected to experience flooding due to the spring tides combined with the atmospheric weather conditions. The role of social workers in Gaza has been decimated, according to the IASW Cork-based social workers seeking an immediate ceasefire to end the carnage in Gaza will march from Grand Parade this Saturday in solidarity with their colleagues in Palestine. The workers will participate in the weekly demonstration organised by the Cork Palestine Solidarity Campaign and walk behind the banner of the Irish Association of Social Workers (IASW), an organisation which released a statement calling for an end to the conflict in the Middle East last month. Vivian Geiran is the chairperson of IASW and is expecting a visible presence of the bodys members at this weekends demonstration, following on from a similar march by social workers in Dublin in January. Mr Geiran told The Corkman that because his organisation is committed to humanitarianism, it condemns all war crimes, including those perpetrated by Hamas on October 7. At this stage the level of response by Israel is causing such carnage in Gaza and even though were not a political organisation were founded on human rights principles and we just have to make our views known in that regard, Mr Geiran said. The director, who is also a lecturer in social work and policy at Trinity College, said that peoples most fundamental rights are being trampled on in Palestine and that the IASW is of the view that the only way to address this issue is with an immediate ceasefire that will allow steps to be taken toward a lasting solution. Mr Geiran said that the roles of social workers and those involved in humanitarian work in Gaza have been decimated as a result of the conflict. Social workers have been killed and imprisoned and they are not able to carry out their functions in the prevailing conditions in Gaza, Mr Geiran said. Understandably, the focus is on life and limb and thats the most obvious threat for people there, but social workers, whether its in Ireland or Palestine or anywhere else, do carry out critical social services and in that context theyll be left picking up the pieces for years if not decades to come. Theres good news for east Cork commuters with news of progress concerning the proposed N25 relief road for Castlemartyr and Killeagh. The Department of Transport has given the green light to the N25 upgrade scheme to appoint a design consultant to a new road connecting Midleton and Youghal. This will be a major milestone for east Cork as the section via Killeagh and Castlemartyr is well-known for major traffic delays and a number of accidents. This is Cork Newsletter Enter your email address below and click 'Sign Up' to receive the This is Cork newsletter direct to your inbox. Please check your inbox to verify your details This will help to address congestion, and improve road safety on what is one of the most dangerous sections of road in the country, said Fianna Fail Transport Spokesperson and TD for Cork East, James OConnor. I have consistently been campaigning for this relief road since my election to Cork County Council and the emergency meeting I had in October 2021 with An Taoiseach, the Minister for Public Expenditure and the Minister for Transport, Deputy O Connor added. Also in the pipeline is a new line footpath in Youghal, connecting Summerfield Cross to Pobalscoil na Trionoide. Following meetings with the National Transport Authority, 150,000 of funding will be provided to Cork County Council for active travel to start this project with more funds to be allocated during the year. The N25 relief road is expected to make significant travel time reductions, with the road currently operating over capacity and roughly over 19,000 vehicles per day travel through Castlemartyr on busy days. The design and construction of the N25 relief road could still take years to complete pending planning approval, but Deputy OConnor says he promises to campaign for this project until the completion. HIQA report criticises removal of escape stairs in the event of an emergency Concerns have been raised over fire safety procedures at a Dublin nursing home in a recently published report by health authorities. Lucan Lodge Nursing Home in Dublin was among several providers listed by HIQA as non-compliant. This follows news of the imminent closure of Sally Park Nursing Home in Firhouse, operated by the same provider, following a damaging HIQA report published in December. The Lucan Lodge nursing home has 74 beds, and 73 residents were on-site on the day of the most recent inspection in September 2023. While some residents praised the staff for providing good quality care aligned with individual preferences, the HIQA report, published on February 6, raised concerns about prolonged wait times for assistance on the third floor. Observations from inspectors noted inadequate supervision, inconsistent provision of call bells, and insufficient allocation of staff. Overall, the report stated that the premises at Lucan Lodge home were bright and homely. However, inspectors said significant improvements were required in relation to fire precautions. Action was also required to ensure that the centre was appropriate for the number and needs of the residents. An anonymous former employee of Lucan Lodge also aired concerns on RTE Radio 1s Liveline with Joe Duffy yesterday, detailing the troubling poor HIQA report. Im extremely concerned that this inspection report is published, and the nursing home is still open and responsible for the care of highly vulnerable adults, they said. I have genuine concerns that a report like this is published yet the centre remains under operation by the same group. Lucan Lodge Nursing Home was among a number of providers listed by HIQA as being non-compliant The inspection on September 21, 2023, noted the removal of an escape stairs in the centre of the building, which had significantly increased the travel distances in the event of an emergency or a fire. Inspectors found poor risk management systems that did not ensure effective oversight of the risk of fire. Lucan Lodge responded to the identified issues, but HIQA inspectors were unconvinced of adequate assurances regarding urgent compliance breaches. Speaking on RTE Radio 1 yesterday, Sheila King, Chief Operations Officer with the Passage Healthcare Group, said: The only outstanding item we are waiting for is a fire regularisation certificate, which we are in consultation with South Dublin Council to achieve. This is related to the distances for travel on exiting the building on the top floor, which are actually fine, but HIQA wanted reassurances to make sure that is correct. There were some issues noted with the HIQA report; some may have been projected wider than necessary. While there were failings, those failings have been addressed. Our fire drills are fully conversant, and our staff know exactly what to do in those circumstances, she added. The Director of Passage Healthcare, Ronan Collins, added in a statement that they were very disappointed with both the last and previous reports. We did not agree with parts of the report, but our goal is to ensure that we achieve the standards which we set ourselves, which we clearly did not meet in the last report, he added. South Dublin County Council has been contacted for comment. The daa says Dublin Airport needs to expand to keep pace with a growing population. Pic: Stock photo If successful, the planning application will see passenger numbers at Dublin Airport rise to 40 million per year North Dublin residents objecting to plans to expand Dublin Airport, claim the potential adverse health effects of increased flights are being brushed aside. The daa has applied to Fingal County Council for permission to build 11 new projects over 15 years to increase capacity. If approved, yearly passenger numbers will increase from the current cap of 32 million to 40 million. St Margarets The Ward Residents (SMTW) and Fingal Organised Residents United Movement (FORUM) claim they have extreme anger and frustration, and theyre suffering from the effects of aircraft noise. The communities are objecting to the plans as they believe theres a significant noise problem since the opening of the north runway in August 2022. The existing noise issues, which are essentially being ignored, will be magnified exponentially with an increase in passenger numbers, a letter from the groups said. The people of north county Dublin and beyond do not as a whole want to be a barrier to change and the betterment of this country. However, the manner in which communities are being treated by the daa is absolutely disgraceful. This is why we are objecting. True adverse health effects are brushed aside. Adverse cardiovascular and metabolic repercussions of aircraft noise, especially at night, are indisputable. Mental health suffers, as well as childrens development and learning. Our lives matter. Our health matters. Our children, growing up in a potentially inhospitable environment, matter, they added. According to residents, if Dublin Airport is allowed to expand passenger numbers, it would allow a change in the conditions of planning, which will increase the night time hours of use of the north runway and to introduce a noise quota system, instead of 65 flights per night. These planning conditions were initially in place to protect the health and wellbeing of those that live alongside the airport. SMTW residents committee and FORUM added: In an age where there is an onus on the Government to reduce national greenhouse gas emissions, it seems incomprehensible that the opposite is promoted in an unsustainable way. The daa says Dublin Airport needs to expand to keep pace with a growing population. Pic: Stock photo The daa speak of meeting sustainability targets and becoming carbon neutral. This refers completely to the running of the airport campus on the ground presently, as opposed to the planes in the sky. Surely there needs to be recognition that communities that are to bear the brunt of this development need to be adequately protected from the inevitable harm that would befall them as a result? they added. This week, daa unveiled details of 20 environmental sustainability initiatives being rolled out at Dublin and Cork Airports, which is said to accelerate both airports climate and sustainability related ambitions, including achieving net zero emissions by 2050 at the latest. The initiatives announced include: Making Dublin Airport diesel free, with all owned vehicles previously powered by diesel switching to Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). The light vehicle fleets at both Dublin and Cork airports being 100pc electric by the end of 2024. The submission of a planning application for a 1.8 million-kilowatt solar farm at Cork Airport. Improving air quality at bus stations at both Dublin and Cork airports with innovative photobioreactor technology. The fast-tracking of a shared bikes project for Dublin Airport. The completion of work on over 20 additional electric vehicle parking spaces at Dublin Airport. New interventions to increase rainwater harvesting, water reuse and the earlier detection of leaks. Speaking at the launch of the new daa sustainability targets, Minister of State for Transport Jack Chambers said he supports the planned increase in passenger numbers to 40 million. If Dublin Airport wasn't to expand it would have a serious impact on our island economy, he said. Speaking previously on the planned expansion, daa CEO Kenny Jacobs said: The time is right for daa to plan for the growth of Dublin Airport over the coming decade. Dublin Airport is a key driver of the national economy and is Irelands primary gateway to the world, welcoming the vast majority of international passengers, facilitating 30pc of Irelands exports by value, and contributing 9.6bn to the Irish economy. In 2022, Dublin Airport saw 28.1 million passengers through its doors and this year that number is likely to come in close to 32 million in compliance with current planning permissions. Population growth alone means Dublin Airport will need to be able to grow beyond 32 million passengers the current maximum cap placed on the number of passengers allowed to pass through the doors of the two terminals each year. The continued sustainable development of the airport to meet this growing demand will be crucial to facilitating the level of growth in tourism, trade, investment, and jobs thats recognised and required by government policy. Sustainability lies at the heart of our Infrastructure Application, with 500m of projects to ensure we stay on track to achieve our carbon reduction targets. The daa has been contacted for further comment. A 23-year-old man accused of robbing other men he allegedly met on the Grindr dating app has been refused bail. Michael Quinn, Cara Close, Priorswood, Coolock, Dublin 17, was previously accused of robbing a male of a black iPhone on June 24, 2023, attempted robbery of a second male on July 18 and robbery of a third man of 60 cash and a bank card on July 20, at three different locations in Dundalk. However, on November 1 last, Judge Stephanie Coggins struck out those charges over a delay in obtaining DPP directions. Mr Quinn appeared in custody before Dundalk Court again this week when a detective garda gave evidence of recharging him and preferring new charges. He made no reply after caution. The court heard that the DPP has directed a trial on indictment. The defendant is accused of, on June 24, 2023, at an address in Dundalk, robbing a male of an iPhone, mobile phone, driving licence and bank cards; producing a large kitchen knife and seizing control of a car, and false imprisonment at a location unknown between two addresses in Dundalk. He is further charged with on July 18, 2023, at another address, making a threat to a man to kill or cause him serious harm, assault causing harm and attempted robbery. Mr Quinn is also accused of on July 20, 2023, at a third location, robbing a male of 60 cash and a Revolut card. Following a contested bail application, Judge Eirinn McKiernan refused bail. Mr Quinn was remanded in custody to February 14 via video link for preparation and service of a book of evidence. Legal aid was granted. Judge orders Balbriggan man to come up with more compensation A 26-year-old man who scarred another male with a hacksaw while they attended a training course has been told to come up with more compensation. Conor Doyle, Balfe Road, Balbriggan, Co. Dublin, who has no previous convictions, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm and to production of an article during the course of a dispute at the LMETB Regional Skills & Training Centre, Coes Road, Dundalk, on May 18, 2021. He came to court with 1,200 for this victim and was prepared to get more if given time, his solicitor said. The incident was described as a moment of madness and out of character. Court presenter Sgt Laura Blanche said it centred on a dispute over a grinding tool and added that the DPP had directed summary disposal of the case in the district court. A medical report was available. The injured man said he knew Mr Doyle quite well. They were doing a course together in the training centre. He said he was using a grinder and put it down. He thought what happened was a joke. The defendant came across, he (the victim) pushed him, and they struggled before the other man swung a hacksaw at my head. Solicitor Paula Tiernan handed in references on behalf of her client who had never been in court before or since. Mr Doyle was extremely apologetic. This was a moment of madness which was out of character. He was happy to save up more compensation. Judge McKiernan remarked this was a very serious matter. It was an unusual thing to happen and not normal or rational behaviour. The victim had a scar. The court took into account the guilty plea and no previous convictions. Judge McKiernan said the defendant would have to pay a total of 2,000 compensation as a token. The case was adjourned to May 8 for a probation report and to finalise. A new school in Gorey for up to 24 students with autism and complex learning needs has opened up enrolment this week. Gorey Hill School will be located at Gaelscoil Moshiolog and will comprise of four classes of six students each to be enrolled for the academic year, 2024-25. Principal of Gaelscoil Moshiolog, Aodhagan O Suird and teacher Fionntan O Suilleabhain are delighted to be facilitating the Special School as an interim measure. As a Gorey man myself, I am acutely aware that the Gorey area is crying out for facilities for special needs children, said Aodhagan. Gorey Hill School will provide education for students, from the age of 4 to 18 years old, with a diagnosis of autism and complex learning needs and in need of tailored support in a special educational setting. Gorey Hill School, based in a shared building in Gorey town, is expected to grow its current capacity of students in the future with the development of permanent new premises. It is one of four new Special Schools across Ireland that was announced late last year. The Department of Education granted patronage of the new school to Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board (WWETB). We look forward to working with all the stakeholders to develop a school that meets the needs of our students, their parents and the wider school community, said acting Chief Executive of WWETB, Dr. Karina Daly. Gorey Hill School will deliver the curriculum prescribed by the Department of Education and adapted to meet the educational needs of each student. Supported by the childs multidisciplinary team, the teachers and staff will provide a caring and challenging learning environment where a variety of methodologies and strategies are adopted to maximise the students learning potential. Gorey Hill School seeks to ensure that all members of the school community work in partnership, and having the best interests of our students is at the heart of all we do. The National Council for Special Education (NCSE), the National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) and the Department of Education will support us in this regard, said Dr. Daly. Pending the appointment of a Board of Management comprising representatives of parents, staff, community representatives and WWETB, the school will be managed on an interim basis by a manager under the direction of WWETB. A Project Manager has been appointed and work will begin on the school soon. This is an interim measure while a bespoke school is built which will cater to the students specific needs. Were delighted to welcome them to the school and we anticipate that we will be facilitating them for three or four years, said Aodhagan. Gaelscoil Moshiolog will move into one wing of the schools building and maintain two classrooms in the other wing to enable them to continue with their Naionra. Anyone that would like to enrol in the school or for more information can email goreyhillschool@wwetb.ie. The application for admission is open until February 28 and can be found at https://www.wwetb.ie/schools/gorey-hill-school/ or goreyhillschool@wwetb.ie. WWETB will also be recruiting for a principal, teachers and special needs assistants, with vacancies advertised at wwetb.ie in the coming weeks. Rower school Grandparents & VIPs day. From left; Art Ward from the Rower with his granddaughter Lucy. Photo; Mary Browne Rower school Grandparents & VIPs day. From left; Brenda Corcoran from The Rower with her granddaughter Niamh. Photo; Mary Browne Rower school Grandparents & VIPs day. From left; Teresa Morrissey from the Rower with her grandchildren Lena, Faye and Kitty. Photo; Mary Browne Rower school Grandparents & VIPs day. From left; Joan Ryan from Graignamanagh with her grandchildren Lara and Reyna. Photo; Mary Browne Rower school Grandparents & VIPs day. From left; Bridget and Mark O'Hanlon from Ballyverogue with their grandson Archie . Photo; Mary Browne Rower school Grandparents & VIPs day. From left; Paddy and Maureen Moore from Waterford with their granddaughter Mia. Photo; Mary Browne Rower school Grandparents & VIPs day. From left; Aoibhinn and Ollie with their mother Marie Lyng and grandmother Lily Lyng from The Rower. Photo; Mary Browne Rower school Grandparents & VIPs day. From left; Helan and Walter Dalton from New Ross and Mary Lyng from The Rower with her grandchildren Bonnie and Hannah. Photo; Mary Browne Grandparents/V.I.P. Day was held in Marymount N.S. The Rower recently, with singing, cooking and more on show for the special guests. The school celebrated Catholic Schools Week incorporating the theme Catholic Schools as Communities of Service, in the school community, family community, faith community, The Rower community and the schools community of friends. The day began with a mass celebrated by Fr Frank Purcell. Members of the school, locality, family members and pupils took part in the mass. The school choir was beautifully accompanied by Miriam and Patsy Long on the harp and flute. The school were bowled over by the turnout. Following the mass the large number of visitors descended on the school hall for refreshments, kindly provided by the parents of the school. The visitors then had an opportunity to visit their own V.I.P.s in their classrooms for a chat, a song, a cookery demonstration, to name but a few. It was wonderful to see the delight and joy on the childrens faces as they welcomed their loved ones into their school. The school would like to acknowledge the support of all those involved to make this special day happen, a school spokesperson said. People attending the vigil over human rights violations in Palestine, at O'Hanrahan Bridge in New Ross. People attending the vigil over human rights violations in Palestine, at O'Hanrahan Bridge in New Ross. Around 100 people attended an Irish Palestine Solidarity Campaign (IPSC) vigil on Saturday, January 27, on OHanrahan Bridge in New Ross. Locals gathered to protest against the vicious and horrific scenes coming from Gaza where over 25,000 Palestinians have been killed since October 7. One of the New Ross organisers, Dean McGrath said: On Friday the International Court of Justice ruled that Israel must not commit genocide in Gaza. It also demands that Israel allow access for humanitarian aid for the 2.3 million living in Gaza, 1.9 million of which are internally displaced. At its peak (on Saturday) we had 100 people from all walks of life standing in solidarity with the people of Palestine. OHanrahan Bridge was alive with the calls for an end to the genocide, starvation, ethnic cleansing and bombardment of the people of Gaza. The people of New Ross and its surrounding area should be very proud of the attendance and indeed our South East Branch of the IPSC never fail to be amazed at the passion, humanity and kindness of the people of the region. The south east branch of the IPSC covers Wexford Waterford Tipperary and Kilkenny. We encourage people to attend their local actions, to contact representatives, to keep speaking out for Justice in Palestine. Following its successful Christmas Lights Night, which took place on December 9, the Rathangan Country Fair and Rathangan Vintage Society has presented a cheque for 2,782 towards the UNICEF Gaza Appeal. The money was raised during an event which was filled with family friendly events with music from an old fairground organ and carols from the local choir. There was mulled wine, hot chocolate and mince pies, and a showmans engine which shone bright in the night sky. Many of those in attendance purchased a personalised star as part of the Light up a Life Tree and placed it on the Christmas tree in memory of a loved one. Then a parade of beautifully lit vehicles and floats rolled into the village, followed by the eagerly-awaited arrival of Santa, Mrs Claus and one of their elves on a steam engine. A countdown to the turning on of the Christmas lights followed and then Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elf settled into Santas Grotto where he checked the naughty and nice lists and had individual visits with all the local children. The evening was finished off in style with a road run through the neighbouring villages. "A tremendous effort was involved in lighting up all the tractors, vans, cars and bikes. It truly was a sight to behold, said Fiona White, secretary Rathangan Country Fair. A prize for the best turned out float was presented to Rory Hannigan for his take on the An Post Christmas advert. It was a hugely enjoyable night enjoyed by all the community old and young alike with much needed funds generated in the process. Many thanks to all those to attended, helped out and contributed in any way. For decades the south east has lost its brightest, most creative people to the major cities, seen budding entrepreneurs, business owners, and start-ups leave its counties for universities in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, and beyond. Brain drain has been a consistent problem for a part of Ireland which may have the best weather but has struggled to match the economic heft of rival regions. Staff from The Woodenbridge Hotel in south Wicklow pictured with their Favourite Place to Stay in Leinster award at the Virgin Media Business Gold Medal Awards. Staff from The Woodenbridge Hotel & Lodge in south Wicklow celebrated a night to remember when they were crowned Irelands Favourite Place to Stay in Leinster at the recent Virgin Media Business Gold Medal Awards. Now in their 34th year, the Gold Medal Awards are recognised as the leading independent awards programme for the Irish hospitality industry and are judged by industry experts, rewarding excellence in hospitality and catering operations across the island of Ireland. An eight-strong contingent from the Woodenbridge Hotel Irelands oldest hotel, dating back to 1608 travelled to Galway for the lavish ceremony at The Galmont Hotel & Spa, including Managing Director Gerard OBrien and his wife Treasa, General Manager Lorcan OBrien and Deputy Hotel Manager Gillian OBrien, Front Office & Corporate Manager Liz Bermingham, Operations Manager Maciej Smyk, Reservations Supervisor Ines Kottnig and Bar Manager Mark Nolan. The Woodenbridge Hotel team were nominated for not one but two major awards on the night, featuring in both the Irelands Three Star Hotel and Irelands Favourite Place to Stay categories. After bringing the Irelands Favourite Place to Stay in Leinster title back to south Wicklow, Mark Nolan hailed the award as a massive achievement for everyone involved with the hotel and thanked the public for their ongoing support and custom. Detailing the merits of the hotels nomination to this years awards, Mark explained that his staffs commitment to impeccable service shined through when undercover adjudicators from the Gold Medal Awards visited the hotel last year. Its a massive award within the industry, and we had a fantastic night altogether up in Galway, with a whole gang of us making the trip Mark said. It was a shame that we couldnt bring home that three-star hotel award, but to get the nod as best place to stay in Leinster more than made up for it. We actually had a couple of people stay with us in the lead up to the nominations, who were seemingly travelling around the country, evaluating where the best places to stay are, the best for food etc. It was a quiet Tuesday night, and myself and Maciej were the only two on. I cant remember what the lady said she did, but the guy said he was a pilot but who knows?! They stayed for the night and had a meal. We do a mid-week wine and dine, and they had just missed the chance to do it, but Ines, for some reason, just being the nice person she is, told them they had missed it but would throw it in on their stay. They were very appreciative of that, and I suppose it just goes to show that going that extra mile really sticks with people and makes them remember their visit fondly. Parents in Greystones have been given much-needed relief with the announcement that one secondary school can now offer an additional 48 places for the school year that begins in September 2024. The principals of local secondary schools came together last autumn to highlight the space pressures they were experiencing, revealing that for the September 2024 intake there would be 72 less places available due to limitations on school building capacity. Concerns grew amongst local parents when a significant number of children were not given places after first-round offers had gone out in November. During a Dail debate with Wicklow TD Jennifer Whitmore that same month, the Department of Education guaranteed that every child in Greystones would receive a school place for the 2024 academic year and on Friday progress was made towards that promise. This is Wicklow Newsletter Enter your email address below and click 'Sign Up' to receive the This is Wicklow newsletter direct to your inbox. Please check your inbox to verify your details The Board of Management of Greystones Community College met with the Kildare and Wicklow Education and Training Board on Thursday and released a statement following that outlining that they would be offering an additional 48 school places for their 1st year class that will start in September 2024. The Board are confident that this move will alleviate some of the pressure that is currently being felt by families in the Greystones area due to the shortage of school places, it read. The Board of Management were pleased to take this decision after meeting with Kildare and Wicklow Education and Training Board on February 8th, where correspondences from the Department of Education provided reassurance on addressing potential challenges which had been previously raised. We now look forward to welcoming an additional 48 new students to join our vibrant and dynamic school. The whole school community at Greystones Community College look forward to receiving positive news from the Department of Education in relation to the progression of the permanent building for the college in the coming weeks. Wicklow Minister Simon Harris was cautiously optimistic about the news, given that construction at the college and at several other secondary schools still needs to take place. Minister Harris attended a meeting with Department of Education officials on Thursday evening, where he received updates on Greystones school places. Speaking on Friday, Minister Harris said: This is really good news, I really want to thank Greystones Community College community for their tireless efforts. The 48 additional school places will come as great relief to a number of families and parents across Greystones. However this doesnt change the broader issue. As outlined yesterday it is simply and utterly unacceptable that Greystones Community College, an incredible school in our community, has not yet gone to construction. Temple Carrig extension needs to proceed and Colaiste Chraobh Abhann extension to progress too. These are three major educational priorities for the area and I wont stop applying pressure until we get action. We have all worked so hard to see this school established, it has a brilliant principal, brilliant teachers, a brilliant school community and people have worked so hard for reasonably good interim accommodation but now is the time to press go for a permanent build. Minister Harris concluded: We need the sod turned and turned urgently, positive news on this is essential in the next couple of weeks. Libraries throughout County Wicklow are taking part in Ireland Reads, a campaign to get the whole country reading this month in the lead up to a national day of reading on Saturday, February 24. Libraries have teamed up with publishers, booksellers, authors, and others for the campaign which is part of the governments Healthy Ireland programme and aims to celebrate reading and all the benefits it can have for wellbeing and enjoyment. The campaign is asking everyone to Get Lost in a Good Book during February and Wicklow County Council Library Service will be celebrating Ireland Reads through various events and activities across their branch network throughout February in the build up to Ireland Reads Day. A finger puppet workshop for children aged 5 and upwards takes place in Wicklow town library from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., featuring folk and fairy tales. You can also Join Comic Club artist Elida Maiques and graphic novel author Debbie Jenkinson from 3p.m. to 4 p.m. in Bray Library, as they discuss their favourite graphic novels. A full schedule of events will be announced on the libraries website and social media pages. The Ireland Reads website also offers book recommendations suited to a persons interests and the time they have available. There are more than 1,500 recommendations from librarians all around the country for all interests and reading levels. A website user can simply enter their favourite type of book and how long they would like to read each day and the website will offer the perfect book suggestion and work out how long it will take to complete. People can also recommend a book to a friend through the website. Urging people to get involved, Cllr Aoife Flynn Kennedy, Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, said: Wicklow County Council Library Service hopes we can get the whole county reading this month, especially those who might not be avid readers right now. If you dont read, or you havent read in a while, this is the perfect time to give it a try. Emer OGorman, Chief Executive, Wicklow County Council, stated: Getting lost in a good book is one of the best things you can do, at any age. Reading is great for your wellbeing, a good book can relax you, it can teach you, it can take you places youve never been and introduce you to people youve never met. A number of well-known campaign ambassadors are on board to help promote the campaign nationally, including Booker Prize winner, Paul Lynch, Marian Keyes, Colm Toibin, Rick OShea, Liz Nugent and others. People can find out what reading means to them and why they support the campaign at www.irelandreads.ie. Wicklow teacher Sean O Suileabhain and Seamus O Maitiu pictured on the upcoming episode of TG4 show 'Sloinne'. Wicklow teacher Sean O Suileabhain and his deirfiuir pictured on the upcoming episode of TG4 show 'Sloinne'. Wicklow teacher Sean O Suileabhain and Niamh Ni Shuilleabhain pictured on the upcoming episode of TG4 show 'Sloinne'. Paul Mac Cotter and Wicklow teacher Sean O Suileabhain and Seamus O Maitiu pictured on the upcoming episode of TG4 show 'Sloinne'. Wicklow teacher Sean O Suilleabhain will journey back in time to trace the history of his surname and find out about others who share it in a TG4 series about Irish surnames airing this Sunday at 8.30 p.m. 'Sloinne', a seven-part series, delves into the fascinating stories behind Ireland's most common surnames, bringing history to life in a way that's accessible and enjoyable for everyone, with the first series showcasing surnames like O Flaithearta, O Murchu, O Ceallaigh, O Suilleabhain, O Domhnaill, Seoighe, and O Conchubhair. Each episode features a special guest exploring their family surname, painting a colourful picture of how our local areas and surnames are deeply intertwined. Visiting ancient strongholds tied to these names, reliving epic battles and feuds over land and possessions, from the famous to the infamous, modern-day stories of surname bearers add a personal touch, highlighting our enduring connection to our ancestors. In this Sundays episode of Sloinne, the programme follows Greystones Community College teacher Sean O Suilleabhain as he begins his journey in Rathmines, Dublin, where he traces back through five generations of O'Sullivans. Sean meets Pat Sweeney, a pharmacist in Roches Pharmacy (Dublin) who worked with his father for many years, composer Karen Ni Bhroin, who tells him all about composer Arthur Sullivan and also Seamas O Maitiu (writer and historian) who explains all about the life of nurse Maureen OSullivan to him. He also visits historian Dr Catherine Healy at the EPIC museum in Dublin to look at the story of actress Maureen O'Sullivan, the actress. Seans journey inevitably takes him to County Cork, where historian Anne McNally meets him at the ruins of Dunboy Castle (Beara peninsula), and he learns about the OSullivan clan leader in 1602- Donal Cam OSullivan. Ending back in Skibbereen, Seans journey culminates where his own family lived over 100 years ago. The episode also features conversations with John OSullivan (historian, County Cork), Sinead Ni Uallachain (Ballineanig, County Kerry), Niamh Ni Shuilleabhain and Paul MacCotter (series genealogist). Amy Dowden will do series two of Dare To Dance (Doug Peters/PA) Strictly Come Dancing star Amy Dowden has been teaching a couple who brought forward their wedding due to a cancer diagnosis to dance in a BBC series. The Welsh professional dancer, 33, has previously spoken of how she felt robbed of the year she had planned after finding a lump in her breast in April shortly before her honeymoon. TV presenter Kate Garraway has said she got a bit of flak on social media for laughing on air during her first day back presenting Good Morning Britain following the death of her husband. The 56-year-old returned to host ITVs flagship morning show on Thursday, less than a week after the funeral of her husband Derek Draper. Author and former political adviser Draper fell seriously ill during the early part of the Covid-19 pandemic in March 2020, and died last month aged 56 after suffering long-lasting symptoms from coronavirus. We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review your details and accept them to load the content Garraway was speaking on Good Morning Britain (GMB) on Friday about grief alongside co-host Ben Shephard, actor Larry Lamb and bereavement counsellor Claire Collins, ahead of next months national day of reflection. She said: I got a bit of flak on social media yesterday for laughing with you as though that would imply I didnt care. But when you (are) laughing, youre laughing because you want the joy that that person brought to continue and you know that people watching at home have got troubles in their life and you want to share that joy with them. So its a licence to laugh and to cry and to be all of those things. The first Sunday in March will be marked with a UK-wide day of reflection as people remember all those who died during the pandemic. March 3 will be the first annual day of reflection since the UK Commission on Covid Commemoration published its final report in September, recommending the event be held each year on the first Sunday of March. A minutes silence will be held at midday and charity Marie Curie wants to encourage people to come together to remember and reflect. The first day of reflection was held in 2021 on March 23 the one-year anniversary of the first lockdown. Kate Garraway outside the funeral service of her husband Derek Draper at St Mary the Virgin church in Primrose Hill (Jonathan Brady/PA) EastEnders and Gavin & Stacey actor Lamb, 76, who lost his brother to cancer in 2019, told GMB: My brother Wes would have been quite amused if he had known, he sort of slipped away before it all kicked off. He was very very brave about it and made sure no-one was feeling bad for him. He wanted you just to have a laugh and joke with him as best he could. And it was extraordinary for me to be there with him. Wed had a terrible time beforehand. We had drifted apart but that got us back together. It was lovely. I was able to be there with him sitting in his bed. They even rigged up a bed in the corner of the room for me at the Marie Curie hospice and let me sleep in the room with him. We havent slept in a room together for like 60 years. Lamb recalled how Wes had asked him for a kiss, adding: And we just became these two little boys. These monkeys who used to play together and we had a kiss and yeah, it was lovely. The thing of all those people who missed the possibility of a moment like that, which is just like one of the most important memories of my life. Larry Lamb appeared on Good Morning Britain (Ian West/PA) Garraway said she still feels very numb and is only in the first stages of grief. She explained: We were talking around this time last year, about the day of reflection and the importance of it. And I mean, obviously, Im in a different place to talk about it now. And Im very aware of the sensation of grief, although also very aware that actually Im only at the first stages and theres so many different stages of it all. But particularly aware of how tough it was for those in Covid, who hadnt got that wrap around, around them or the chance to have a funeral where they could hug loved ones and all of those things. Which I think, you know Ben, we talked about at the time, but I especially feel it now. Its so important to have that chance and this moment. Good Morning Britain airs on ITV on weekdays from 6am on ITV1 and ITVX. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Baku has hosted the next round of political consultations between the Foreign Ministries of Azerbaijan and Switzerland, the Azerbaijani ministry told Trend. Deputy Foreign Minister Fariz Rzayev led the Azerbaijani delegation, while Assistant Secretary of State Muriel Peneveyre headed the Swiss delegation during the consultations. In the course of the meeting, discussions encompassed the current state and prospects of bilateral relations, spanning political, economic, energy, transport, and humanitarian spheres, along with cooperation within international organizations. The sides discussed the upcoming 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), scheduled to take place in Azerbaijan this year. They emphasized that this event will present new avenues for cooperation and development. The event highlighted Azerbaijan's efforts in post-conflict stabilization, including initiatives for lasting peace, addressing the mine issue in liberated territories, and extensive reconstruction projects. Opinions were exchanged on other issues of mutual interest during the political consultations. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Our fashion editor rounds up the latest style news and fashion trends Decollete gown in rose-poudre silk-satin with corset-laced panels over an exposed corset with conical breasts in ivory cotton twill, worn with platform mules in plexiglass with pearl detail and aigu heel, and beaded cow-parsley earrings, from Jean Paul Gaultier x Simone Rocha Dress with panier crinoline, in patchwork of traditional ivory napperon crochet with clear crystal daisy embroidery mounted on a corset of maille bloquee, from Jean Paul Gaultier x Simone Rocha Layered corset dress in rose poudre silk duchesse satin with suspenders, thorn conical breasts and satin duchesse shorts with all-over folded bias ruffles worn with ghillie brogues, Jean Paul Gaultier x Simone Rocha What a way for Irish designer Simone Rocha to start the year. Her debut on the haute couture stage when she accepted Jean Paul Gaultiers invitation to be his guest designer for SS24 was a critical success last month and has copper-fastened her reputation on the international fashion scene as one of the coolest, most original designers to follow. The glowing reviews and huge social media interest in her playful and provocative show in Paris did not surprise her loyal Irish fans who have been buying her pieces for a decade. Simones own mainline SS24 collection, which she showed at London Fashion Week last September, has arrived into Havana in Donnybook Simones exclusive Irish stockist. The trapped-roses-in-tulle luxury pieces were a standout for me when I attended her show in East London last year, but for less dressy occasions, I think her pink pleated-neck sack dress (pictured top) commands attention in a different way. I love the sophistication of the silhouette, which falls from folds in the neckline, offset by the addition of a petite red bow detail. It pays its way as a transeasonal piece, and they also have it in a black version at Nikki Creedons Donnybrook boutique. The Gossip Girl actress Kelly Rutherford wore the dress in pink on the frow of the Jean Paul Gaultier x Simone Rocha show. Buckled-harness corset over tulle tutu with 4,000 dandelion feather poms, Jean Paul Gaultier x Simone Rocha. Photo: Ilya Chemetoff. Simones attention to detail was off the scale with the gowns and the fabrics: I loved her buckled-harness corset dress in ivory silk grosgrain with crystal and pearl daisy embroidery and a white tulle tutu embellished with 4,000 dandelion feather poms. Decollete gown in rose-poudre silk-satin with corset-laced panels over an exposed corset with conical breasts in ivory cotton twill, worn with platform mules in plexiglass with pearl detail and aigu heel, and beaded cow-parsley earrings, from Jean Paul Gaultier x Simone Rocha Accessories are so often the entry point for many burgeoning Rocha fans and they will have noticed those plexiglass shoes and beaded cow-parsley earrings. It was especially thrilling watching Simones fresh interpretation of Gaultiers iconic legacies including his famous conical bras worn by Madonna. In Paris, Simone introduced peaked thorn conical breasts in a number of corsetry-inspired looks. Layered corset dress in rose poudre silk duchesse satin with suspenders, thorn conical breasts and satin duchesse shorts with all-over folded bias ruffles worn with ghillie brogues, Jean Paul Gaultier x Simone Rocha A favourite of mine was a layered style in rose poudre silk duchesse satin, with suspenders and the thorn conical breasts over satin duchesse shorts with all-over folded-bias ruffles. I particularly loved how she made the mariniere sailor look her own, with navy silk-satin ribbon hand-knotted into bows and mounted on illusion tulle, over a corset body with emphasised hips and navy crystal daisy embroidery. The model also wore a sailor cap in ivory silk duchesse satin with corset-lace detail. Strapless gown with panier crinoline skirt, in patchworks of Irish vintage crochet metallised with silver, Jean Paul Gaultier x Simone Rocha Simone has continued with her Rocha family heritage exploring Irish crochet lace. She presented it in Paris in a romantic way, patchworking traditional ivory napperon doily crochet with clear crystal daisy embroidery. She has employed the same panier crinoline silhouette and used metallised vintage lace with silver in a stunning strapless gown. I cannot wait to see what Simone reveals when she shows her AW24 mainline collection at London Fashion Week next Saturday night. After her Paris success, her show is destined to be the hottest ticket in town. havanaboutique.ie Electronic Sheep 'Girl on the Liffey' scarf by Electronic Sheep, 160, Om Diva and Scout; electronicsheep.com Visual artists Helen Delany and Brenda Aherne of Electronic Sheep are leaders in the field of wearable art. Childhood friends growing up in Dublin, the pair graduated in 1992 from NCAD in Visual Communication and Fashion respectively. Six years later, they launched the Electronic Sheep brand, selling their hugely popular and collectable unisex graphic knits, which are like art for daily life, created in 100pc Italian merino wool. Their drawings and typographic jacquards are based on narrative storylines wrapped around their personal lives and professional practices. One of my favourites from their current collection is Girl on the Liffey. It shows a girl sitting by the Dublin river reading the first edition of Vogue magazine, published in 1916. The scarf features architectural drawings of historic landmarks such as Dublins OConnell Street landscape and the GPO, and the flight of the first airship over the city. Helen and Brenda will be in Dublin this Wednesday (February 14) to give a talk at the Royal Hibernian Academy of Arts (RHA) from 5.30-6.30pm. Booking isnt necessary and all are welcome. Kilburn Stoop Party print by Electronic Sheep They will be talking about their textile art and community-engagement artwork commissions, including their two tapestries: The Kilburn Tapestries, commissioned by Londons Brent Council, and Notifications Off, which was commissioned by First Fortnight Mental Health Art & Culture and funded by The Arts Council of Ireland. Helen says there are themes of immigration, mental health and equality in their work, with Irish cultural figures featured on Notifications Off including Gavin Friday, Aisling Bea, Laura Whitmore and Roisin Murphy. The duo will also be talking about their new screen prints based on the theme of the London Irish, such as the Kilburn Stoop Party, capturing many elements of the culture. electronicsheep.com Flowers are left in Manchester in memory of the people who died in the bombing (Martin Rickett/PA) A claim that the Manchester Arena bombing was staged by government agencies and did not kill or injure anyone is absurd and fantastical, a judge at the High Court has ruled. Donald Trump wins Nevadas Republican caucus after he was the only major candidate to compete Nikki Haley opted for the state-run primary ahead of the vote in her South Carolina home Former US president Donald Trump (PA) Irish Independent Newsdesk Fri 9 Feb 2024 at 07:51 Former president Donald Trump won Nevadas Republican presidential caucuses after he was the only major candidate to compete. LATEST | President Joe Biden insists his memory is fine in fiery remarks after critical report Joe Biden responded on Thursday night from the White House, where he grew visibly angry in denying that he had forgotten when his son died President Joe Biden speaks in the Diplomatic Reception Room of the White House (Evan Vucci/AP) Irish Independent Newsdesk Fri 9 Feb 2024 at 07:32 US President Joe Biden has insisted he did not share classified information and angrily denied claims in a special counsels report that his memory was poor. The US Supreme Court appears poised to reject efforts to disqualify Donald Trump from the US presidential race. Mr Trump, speaking from Mar-a-Lago in Florida, said it was beautiful to watch the first day of hearings into Colorados decision to rule him out of the state ballot. Photo Courtesy: Pixabay Mumbai: Hyundai Motor, the South Korean automotive company, has proposed an initial public offering (IPO) for its India division. It has selected JP Morgan, Citi, and HSBC as advisors for the potential IPO, aiming to raise an estimated $3 billion to $3.5 billion, Moneycontrol reported citing various anonymous industry insiders. The report said the company may add more investment bankers subsequently for the IPO. Hyundai is India's second-largest seller of passenger vehicles in 2023 after Maruti Suzuki India. The Economic Times first reported the listing plans of Hyundai's India operations on February 5. In response to media reports regarding its India listing intentions, Hyundai Motor Co. released an official statement to the Korean Stock Exchange on February 7. The statement clarified that, as a global entity, Hyundai consistently evaluates different initiatives, including potential listings of overseas subsidiaries, with the aim of enhancing corporate value. However, the statement emphasized that no concrete decisions have been made thus far. The draft papers of this mammoth deal in progress are anticipated by June 2024 and if the listing plans materialise, it would be the biggest-ever IPO on the Indian exchanges, the report said. As of now, the Life Insurance Corporation's (LIC) $2.7-billion listing in 2022 is India's biggest IPO. In 2023, India emerged as a pivotal market for Hyundai, contributing approximately 13 percent to the company's global sales. Among the successful Hyundai models in India are the i20, Verna, Kreta, Aura, and Tucson. The Indian unit achieved a historic milestone in 2023 by recording its highest-ever domestic sales, surpassing the six-lakh mark. The unit sold a total of 602,111 units, marking a significant nine percent increase compared to the previous year's sales of 552,511 units. Furthermore, on the export front, the performance of Hyundai's Indian arm exhibited a commendable growth of 10 percent. It shipped a total of 163,675 units in 2023, compared to 148,300 units in the previous year, showcasing robust performance in international markets as well. Image Credit: commons.wikimedia.org New Delhi: The Narendra Modi government on Friday announced Bharat Ratna for former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao posthumously. The honour is seen as a befitting tribute by the nation to the a prime minister of Congress outside the Nehru-Gandhi family. Delighted to share that our former Prime Minister, Shri PV Narasimha Rao Garu, will be honoured with the Bharat Ratna. As a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao Garu served India extensively in various capacities. He is equally remembered for the work he did as pic.twitter.com/lihdk2BzDU Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 9, 2024 Born on June 28, 1921, in Vangara, Andhra Pradesh, Rao's tenure witnessed several historic events, including the epoch-making 1991 economic reforms, the Babri Masjid demolition, and the 1993 Latur earthquake. Often called the first BJP prime minister of India by the likes of Mani Shankar Aiyar (despite being a Congressman) for allegedly not acting to prevent the demolition of the Babri Masjid, PV Narasimha served as the 9th prime minister of India from 1991 to 1996. He actively participated in Indias freedom struggle and joined full-time politics after India achieved freedom in 1947. Known for his scholarly pursuits and linguistic abilities, Rao held several ministerial portfolios successfully in Andhra Pradesh. Although Rao played a crucial part in India's economic evolution, his impact has been clouded by internal party dynamics. While he is often credited for the economic reforms, often attributed to Manmohan Singh, it has sparked debates and controversies. Rao is often referred to as the 'Father of Indian Economic Reforms. While some recognize Rao's decisive leadership and influence on India's development, others criticize his management of social security during the Babri Masjid demolition. Image Credit: wikipedia.org Rao appointed a non-political economist Manmohan Singh, a former governor of the Reserve Bank of India, as his Finance Minister, breaking a convention, as the post till then had been always held by a politician. In 1991, India was in the face of an economic crisis. To avoid this, the Narasimha Rao government initiated reforms, primarily focusing on opening up to foreign investment, restructuring capital markets, easing domestic business regulations, and revamping trade policies. Rao's government aimed to curb the fiscal deficit, privatize public enterprises, and enhance investments in infrastructure. Trade reforms and alterations in foreign direct investment regulations were introduced to integrate India into global trade while stabilizing external debts. He teamed up with Finance Minister Manmohan Singh and formed strategies that rescued India from an economic meltdown and ushered in the era of liberalization of the Indian economy by welcoming foreign investments. During Rao's tenure, major reforms were implemented in India's capital markets, which led to substantial foreign portfolio investments. In 1992, the Controller of Capital Issues, which had previously dictated share prices and issuance quotas for firms, was abolished. In another major reform, the SEBI Act of 1992 was enacted and the Security Laws (Amendment) Act granted legal authority to SEBI to register and regulate all security market intermediaries. India's equity markets were opened to foreign institutional investors in 1992, and Indian firms were permitted to raise capital internationally through Global Depository Receipts (GDRs). The National Stock Exchange in 1994 was established as a computer-based trading platform, marking a significant milestone, becoming India's largest exchange by 1996. Tariffs were reduced manifold from an average of 85% to 25%, and quantitative controls were rolled back, while the rupee was made convertible on trade accounts. Foreign direct investment was encouraged by increasing the maximum foreign capital share in joint ventures and allowing 100% foreign equity in priority sectors. Procedures for FDI approvals were streamlined, allowing automatic approval for projects within foreign participation limits in at least 35 industries. These reforms left a deep impact on the Indian economy, which became evident in the remarkable growth of total foreign investment in India. This included foreign direct investment, portfolio investment, and capital raised on international markets, which surged from a mere US$132 million in 199192 to $5.3 billion in 199596. Rao initiated industrial policy reforms focusing on the manufacturing sector in the beginning. He reduced industrial licensing to a great extent, retaining only 18 industries subject to licensing, while rationalizing industrial regulation. Exhibiting leadership and foresight, Rao did not fear to adopt bold policies at a time when the country was going through a troubled phase. Image Credit: twitter.com/msswaminathan New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced that the late Indian agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan, along with former Prime Ministers PV Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh, would be conferred the Bharat Ratna. Swaminathan's pioneering initiatives included the development and introduction of high-yield varieties of wheat and rice, leading to a substantial increase in food grain production throughout India. He passed away at the age of 98 on September 28 last year in Chennai. It is a matter of immense joy that the Government of India is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dr. MS Swaminathan Ji, in recognition of his monumental contributions to our nation in agriculture and farmers welfare. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture during challenging times and made outstanding efforts towards modernizing Indian agriculture. We also recognise his invaluable work as an innovator and mentor and encouraging learning and research among several students. Dr. Swaminathans visionary leadership has not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured the nations food security and prosperity. He was someone I knew closely and l always valued his insights and inputs, the PM wrote in a post on X. It is a matter of immense joy that the Government of India is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dr. MS Swaminathan Ji, in recognition of his monumental contributions to our nation in agriculture and farmers welfare. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in pic.twitter.com/OyxFxPeQjZ Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 9, 2024 MS Swaminathan was drawn to agriculture during his youth amid the Quit India Movement and the Bengal famine of 1942-43. Witnessing the devastation caused by the famine, Swaminathan redirected his career path from medicine to agriculture, enrolling at the Agriculture College in Coimbatore. Motivated by the desire to contribute to India's independence, he chose to specialize in agricultural research, particularly focusing on genetics and breeding. Swaminathan recognized the profound impact of developing superior crop strains, which could benefit a vast number of farmers, both small and large-scale. His dedication to agricultural science and genetics stemmed from a fascination with their potential to address pressing societal challenges. Swaminathan's academic journey led him to various educational institutions across Europe and the United States. In 1954, he started his work at the Central Rice Research Institute in Cuttack, focusing on the transfer of genes for fertilizer response from Japonica varieties to Indica varieties. According to Swaminathan, this was the first attempt to develop high yielding varieties which can respond to good soil fertility and good water management. At that time India was faced with acute shortage of foodgrains and crops necessary for staple foods had to be shipped from countries like the US. The need to develop high-yielding crops was felt intensely as Indian agriculture had been rendered unproductive after years of colonial rule, which nothing to add resources and develop and modernise the sector. Following Swaminathan's pioneering work on rice, he and fellow scientists directed their efforts towards enhancing wheat productivity. The challenge with traditional wheat and rice varieties lay in their tall and slender stature, prone to lodging, where they fell flat on the ground due to the weight of their well-filled grains in response to heavy fertilizer doses. Swaminathan's research aimed to reduce plant height, thereby minimizing lodging issues. In pursuit of an ideal wheat variety, Swaminathan collaborated with American scientist Orville Vogel, who helped develop a dwarf wheat strain called Gaines, renowned for its high yield. Vogel, however, advised him to involve Norman Borlaug, known for incorporating dwarfing genes into his spring wheat varieties in Mexico, better suited for hot and humid Indian conditions. Following Borlaug's visit to India, facilitated by Swaminathan, the wheat breeding program began in earnest in 1963. Within five years, the "Wheat Revolution" followed, leading to a significant increase in wheat production. Indira Gandhi, then Prime Minister of India, commemorated this achievement by releasing a special stamp. In recognition of his monumental contributions, Swaminathan was honoured with the first World Food Prize in 1987. He used the prize funds to establish the MS Swaminathan Research Foundation in Chennai, underscoring his dedication to sustainable and inclusive agricultural practices. Swaminathan was also awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1971 and the Albert Einstein World Science Award in 1986. Beyond his significant contributions in India, Swaminathan wielded influence on the global stage, playing a crucial role in various international agricultural and environmental initiatives. Time magazine acknowledged him as one of the 20 most influential Asians of the 20th century, underscoring his extensive influence. Miscreants attacked police, set fire to vehicles after authorities razed 'illegal' madrasa (Image credit: Video grab) Haldwani (Uttarakhand)/IBNS: Two people died and at least 250 injured in a violence triggered by the demolition of an illegal madrasa and an adjoining mosque in Haldwani, Uttarakhand on Thursday, media reports said. The District Magistrate has now imposed a curfew in Banbhoolpura and issued a shoot-at-sight order for rioters. Schools are closed and internet services have been shut down. Violence erupted in Haldwani on Thursday after the authorities attempted to bulldoze the "illegal" madarsa. Resisting the demolition, the mob at Banbhoolpura threw stones at them. All of the injured policemen are undergoing treatment at a local hospital. Besides the police, a team of administration and civic officials had gone to the madrasa, which has an adjoining mosque. In a statement, Uttarakhand DGP Abhinav Kumar said: "Around 4 pm today, a joint team of District Administration and Police was conducting an anti-encroachment drive in Banbhoolpura, Haldwani as per the Court's order. Opposing that, a few anti-social elements pelted stones and caused arson." "It is also being said that they fired at the police using illegal weapons...DIG Kumaon reached the spot immediately and additional Police forces have also been called there," he said. The state government has sought for additional police forces from the Ministry of Home Affairs. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dham earlier in the evening held a meeting with senior officials, including the Chief Secretary and the Deputy Commissioner of Police. "MHA has made 4 companies of additional central forces available to us. CM called an emergency meeting at his residence sometime back. As of now, the situation is under control. According to the information I have available, several police personnel and administration officials sustained injuries and have been admitted to hospitals. No casualties have been reported yet," the DGP said. He assured that the police will identify the people behind the incident and that action will be taken against them. Besides policemen, several administration officials and journalists were injured. As the police retaliated with tear gas, the violence intensified. Vehicles parked outside the police station were set on fire. The District Magistrate informed the Chief Minister that prohibitory orders banning large gatherings have been imposed in the area to maintain normalcy. Chief Minister Dhami said the team had gone for the demolition of an illegal structure after a court order, when "anti-social elements there entered into a brawl with the police". "Additional companies of Police and Central Forces are being sent there. We have appealed to everyone to maintain peace. Curfew is in place.Strict action will be taken against rioters and encroachers who committed arson," he was quoted as saying by news agency ANI. According to Municipal Commissioner Pankaj Upadhyay, the madrassa and namaz sites were completely illegal. The Municipal Corporation had earlier taken possession of three acres of land nearby and sealed the illegal madrassa as well as the namaz place. These structures were demolished on Thursday. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. President of the Serbian Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina Milorad Dodik has addressed a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on his confident victory in the presidential election, Trend reports. "Mr. President, dear friend, Allow me to express my most sincere expressions of congratulation for Your historical electoral victory and clear winning in the countrys presidential elections. This is an extraordinary victory which proves that your political, economic, and every other strategy proves right. Your nation has confidence, hope and trust in You and Your wisdom in leading the Republic of Azerbaijan with steady hand into the stable and prosperous future! Mr. President, the decision of the voters is not important only for Azerbaijan and its nation, but for the whole region and world peace as well. We, in the Republic of Srpska, carefully followed the electoral campaign and electoral results and I did openly express my unequivocal support and hope that you will win! Your Excellency, Honorable President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, I am taking this opportunity to offer our congratulations for Your another seven-year presidential term! Allow me to reiterate expressions of deep appreciation and good wishes for your personal health and general well-being, as well as for prosperity and development of friendly people of the Republic of Azerbaijan," the letter reads. Photo courtesy: UNI Hyderabad/UNI: BRS MLAs and MLCs on Friday arrived at the assembly in auto rickshaws, expressing their protest against the government's position on issues concerning auto drivers. Notable figures among the protesting members, including MLAs Harish Rao, Talasani Srinivas Yadav, Sudhir Reddy, Sabita Indra Reddy, Mallar Reddy, Vivekananda, Madhavaram Krishna Rao, Padi Kaushik Reddy, and MLC Satyavathi Rathod, travelled to the Assembly in autos from the MLA quarters in Hyderguda, Hyderabad. During the demonstration, Harish Rao addressed the gathering, highlighting the challenging conditions faced by auto drivers since the Congress party assumed power in the state. He expressed concern over the reported suicides of 21 auto workers in the last two months. While acknowledging the government's initiative to provide free bus travel for women, Harish Rao emphasised the need for the government to also safeguard the interests of auto workers. He revealed that 6.5 lakh auto workers are struggling to meet their EMIs due to a lack of demand, with many resorting to fasting. The protesting members are demanding compensation of Rs 10 lakh each for the families of deceased drivers. Additionally, they are urging the government to incorporate provisions in the upcoming budget to ensure a living wage of Rs 10,000 per month for auto workers. Photo Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons Kolkata/IBNS: In a shocking claim, an amicus curiae informed the Calcutta High Court that women prisoners are getting pregnant inside the jails across the state of West Bengal, media reports said. "Prisoners are getting pregnant during their stay in prisons. At least 196 babies were born in the prisons," an amicus curiae of all correctional homes informed the court on Thursday as reported by several media. The amicus curiae said as quoted by Hindustan Times, "It is interesting to note that women prisoners, while in custody, are getting pregnant. Subsequently babies are born in prisons. "At present, 196 babies are staying in different prisons of West Bengal." The amicus curiae has requested the high court to prohibit entry of male employees of the correctional homes immediately. The division bench of Calcutta High Court comprising Chief Justice Sivagnanam and Justice Supratim Bhattacharya has assigned the case to a separate division bench. Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar meets Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong . Photo Courtesy: S Jaishankar X page Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who is currently visiting Australia to attend the 7th Indian Ocean Conference in Perth, met Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong on Friday as the two leaders discussed issues related to Indo-Pacific and West Asia. "Delighted to meet FM @SenatorWong of Australia in Perth today as we gather for the 7th Indian Ocean Conference," Jaishankar posted on X. "Good exchange on our comprehensive strategic partnership and convergence on matters related to the Indian Ocean. Also discussed the Indo-Pacific, situation in West Asia and other regional and global topics," he said. Indian Ocean Conference The 7th edition of the Indian Ocean Conference is being held in Perth, Australia on February 9-10 in association with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Government of Australia, along with S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Singapore and Perth-US Asia Centre in Australia. The theme of this edition of the conference is "Towards a Stable and Sustainable Indian Ocean. S Jaishankar would address the inaugural session of the conference, along with Ranil Wickremesinghe, President of Sri Lanka, Penny Wong, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia, and Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Singapore. The 7th Indian Ocean Conference will also bring together delegations led by Ministers from over 22 countries and senior officials from 16 countries and 6 multilateral organisations. The conference will also witness the participation of over 400 social and corporate leaders, policy practitioners, scholars, professionals, and media personnel from about 40 countries. Since its debut in 2016 in Singapore, over the years, the Indian Ocean Conference has played an important role in bringing together countries and principal maritime partners of the region together on a common platform to deliberate upon the prospects of regional cooperation for Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR). Photo Courtesy: S Jaishankar X page Thailand's Parliamentary delegation, led by Chairwoman Pikulkaew Krairiksh of the Senate Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, recently visited India when they expressed their interest in investing in the country. "We appreciate the hospitality here," Krairiksh was quoted as saying by DD News, expressing hope for continued collaboration. "I hope that we can maintain connectivity between the Thai and Indian parliaments. We have projects like the trilateral road in the north and the Ranong port, which we have been discussing for a long time. I believe India might find them interesting." One significant project discussed is the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway, spanning over 1,300 kilometers, DD News reported. The delegation also met Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. Following the meeting, S Jaishankar posted on X: "Glad to meet Thai Senate delegation led by Senator Pikulkeaw Krairiksh in New Delhi today." "Appreciate their warm sentiments towards India-Thailand relationship and aspiration to grow it further," he wrote on X. "As civilizational partners, committed to strengthen bonds of culture, connectivity, trade and beyond," the Indian Minister said. Photo Courtesy: Unsplash The situation remained tense in Uttar Pradesh's Bareilly region after thousands of followers of Ittehad-e-Millat Council chief Tauqeer Raza Khan hit the streets following the police detention of the Islamic cleric. The cleric was detained for giving a 'jail bharo' call over the Gyanvapi case. Stone pelting was reported in the Shahmat Ganj area in which one person was injured, police told India Today. According to reports, police have started investigating the incident. During the demonstration the crowd raised anti-government slogans," police sources told UNI. District Magistrate Ravindra Kumar told the news agnecy some anti-social elements indulged in brick-batting after the protest ended peacefully. He said the anti-social elements would be identified, cases would be registered and legal action would be taken against them. Nirmala Sitharaman speaking in Lok Sabha/ courtesy: UNI New Delhi/IBNS: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Friday slammed the Congress-led UPA government for compromising national security and said the critical shortage of defence ammunition was the main feature of 2014 when the BJP-led NDA came to power. "Bulletproof jackets were not available for our soldiers...Night vision goggles were not available, so in the night they couldn't do a thing and were exposing themselves like sitting ducks in pitch darkness," she said while replying to the debate on the White Paper in Lok Sabha. Highlighting the corruption of the UPA government in the Defence sector, Nirmal Sitharamn said, "There was a Rs 3,600 crore AgustaWestland VVIP Chopper scam in 2013." She added that in 2011, CAG had pulled up the Defence Ministry for a delay in buying artillery guns. "Defence was compromised continuously...Total ignoring of the armed forces." During the reply, the Finance Minister also talked about the steps taken by the Modi government and said that "the Defence budget has doubled during the last 10 years. In 2013-14, it was Rs 2.53 lakh crores". "Now it is Rs 6.22 lakh crore in 202425. Capital expenditure, including border roads and for defence forces, equipment investments, defence capital budget, increased from Rs 86,741 crore in 2013-14 to Rs 1.72 lakh crore this year," she said. "It is a matter of pride that, due to the Make in India push, today INS Vikrant, LCA Tejas, Akash, BrahMos missiles, the main battle tank Arjun, and the artillery gun system Dhanush are all being manufactured in India. Besides this, today women are flying Rafale and guarding the borders too," Sitharaman said. On the issue of the economy, the Finance Minister said since 2014, the government has followed the path to take the economy forward by "removing all the misgovernance and hurdles of the previous government". Sitharaman said that the White Paper is a serious document with documentary evidence for everything that is stated in it. She said: "It has been prepared with the intention of informing Parliament of the ten years' literal dedicated effort of the government to work in such a way to bring the economy on track." After the Finance Ministers reply, the House rejected the substitute motion against the White Paper moved by N K Premachandran of the RSP and TMC leader Saugata Roy of TMC. Hitting out at the government, Congress MP Manish Tewari termed the white paper "a political manifesto". He asked why the NDA government did not bring out a white paper in 2014 and waited for 10 years. The Congress leader also listed out the achievements of the UPA government, including bringing out MGNREGA and AADHAR. He criticised the government for demonetisation of high-value currencies and GST, saying it adversely impacted MSMEs. [with UNI inputs] Isreali PM Netanyahu in conversation with soldiers and commanders amidst Isreal-Hamas War | Photo Courtesy: twitter.com/@IsraeliPM Jerusalem: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Friday instructed the army to prepare a plan for a ground operation in Rafah, the southernmost Gazan city, where over half of the 2.3 million Gaza residents fled due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Netanyahu's office said in a statement that the prime minister has ordered the army and the security establishment to submit to the cabinet "a combined plan for evacuating the (Gaza) population and destroying the (Hamas) battalions" in Rafah, which was previously considered a safe zone from Israel's relentless bombardments. He said a powerful ground operation is needed to "eliminate" Hamas militants who are still holed up in southern Gaza, but the population should be allowed to evacuate in advance. "It is impossible to achieve the goal of the war without eliminating Hamas and by leaving four Hamas battalions in Rafah," he said, adding, "It is clear that intense activities in Rafah require the evacuation of civilians." The remarks came after U.S. President Joe Biden criticised Israel's retaliatory offensive in Gaza while warning of a high death toll among Palestinian civilians if Israeli ground troops push deeper into Rafah. Earlier on Friday, Israel launched more deadly airstrikes on Gaza, killing 15 people, including eight in Rafah, according to the Gaza-based Health Ministry. The ministry said Friday that nearly 28,000 Palestinians have been killed since Israel launched the deadly military attacks in the enclave on October 7, 2023. (With UNI/Xinhua inputs) Photo Courtesy: PMLNPunjabPk X page Former Pakistani PM Nawaz Sharif on Friday claimed his Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz's (PML-N) won the national polls though no clear picture emerged as results showed Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-backed candidates dominating in several seats and promising to give tough battle to other political outfits. According to local news reports, PTI-backed independent candidates are leading with more than 90 seats to their name. in his 'victory speech' Nawaz Sharif was quoted as saying by Geo News: "Alhamdulillah, the PML-N is the largest single party in the country today after the elections. He referred to the country's ongoing financial crisis and said at least 10 years are needed to bring stability to the country. Our sole agenda is a prosperous Pakistan, he added. Imran Khan PTI, meanwhile, released an AI-generated video of the former PM and claimed victory over the polls. PTI posted: "Chairman Imran Khan's victory speech (AI version) after an unprecedented fightback from the nation that resulted in PTIs landslide victory in General Elections 2024." Amid terror attacks and tensions, Pakistan voted in the national polls on February 8. Imran Khan is currently languishing in prison. PPP factor Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) stalwart Khursheed Shah has said his party was unlikely to join hands with Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) if Nawaz Sharif portrays himself as the next prime minister of the financial-crisis hit nation. We will take decisions after due deliberations, Shah told Geo News, as he further slammed Nawaz, wondering: What majority does the PML-N have? US, UK voice concern The United States said claims of interference or fraud in the polls should be 'fully investigated'. " We condemn electoral violence, restrictions on the exercise of human rights and fundamental freedoms, including attacks on media workers, and restrictions on access to the Internet and telecommunication services, and are concerned about allegations of interference in the electoral process," the US State Department said in a statement after Sharif claimed victory. UK Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs David Cameron posted on X: "We recognise serious concerns over the fairness and lack of inclusivity of Pakistans elections. Authorities must uphold fundamental human rights including free access to information and the rule of law.I applaud all who voted." In a recent interview, Bhumi Pednekar delved into the emotional challenges she faced while portraying her role in her latest film, 'Bhakshak.' What Is Bhumi Pednekar Playing In 'Bhakshak'? In an interview with India Today, the actress discussed the profound impact of extensive research on the harsh realities confronted by young girls, describing the experience as haunting. Pednekar expressed that the experience was emotionally taxing for her, requiring extensive research. She also lamented the unfortunate reality that the research material depicted real-life events involving young girls.In the discussion about her role in the film, the actress revealed that she portrays a journalist situated in a sector of journalism where she operates as a solitary figure. Despite lacking institutional support and financial resources, her character exudes unwavering determination. What distinguishes her is the quiet strength and dedication she brings to her passion. Bhumi Pednekar In 'Bhakshak'/Twitter Bhumi emphasises that unlike typical female-led thrillers where the main character derives empowerment from external factors, her character in Bhakshak draws strength solely from her voice, microphone, passion for her craft, and unyielding integrity. Directed by Pulkit, 'Bhakshak,' the cast of the film also includes Sanjay Mishra, Sai Tamhankar, and Aditya Srivastava. Inspirational Source Behind Netflix's 'Bhakshak' In May 2018, the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) reported sexual abuse at Muzaffarpur's Balika Greh. The Bihar government acted swiftly, relocating girls by May 29 and filing an FIR on May 31. By August 2, the Supreme Court acknowledged the severity of the revealing abuse of 30 girls. On November 29, the case was handed to the CBI. In 2020, Brajesh Thakur, the alleged mastermind portrayed in Netflix's Bhakshak, was convicted along with 18 others. Recognised for her powerful and empowering performances in films, Bollywood actress Bhumi has emerged as a prominent figure in female-centric cinema. Expectations are high among audiences for her latest role in 'Bhakshak.' For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. As the Oscars 2024 draw near, the organisers of the esteemed Academy Awards announced on Thursday their intentions to introduce a novel Oscar category for Best Casting, commencing in the year 2026. This historic move marks the first addition of a competitive golden statuette to Hollywood's premier award show in over two decades. Official Statement In an official statement, Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang expressed their pride in recognising and celebrating the pivotal role that casting directors play in the art of filmmaking as the Academy adapts and evolves. Oscars 2024 To Take Place In March /Twitter Casting directors, recognised as indispensable members of film projects, stand among the initial key personnel involved in new productions. Their crucial role extends beyond the casting process to shape the final cinematic product that graces the big screen, encompassing the selection of A-list stars and performers for both major and minor roles. The campaign advocating for the inclusion of this annual category has persevered over several years. Meanwhile, stunt performers continue their lobbying efforts for their own Oscar, although these endeavours have not yielded success so far. However, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences' recent statement did not provide clarity on whether the casting award will be presented during the live Oscars show, adding an element of anticipation to the upcoming ceremonies. Current Categories At The Oscars Asian Actress Miyoshi Umeki With Her Academy Award/Twitter Currently, all 23 existing categories are showcased live during the gala, reflecting the Academy's commitment to the recognition of excellence in various cinematic disciplines. Notably, an attempt in 2022 to streamline the ceremony by pre-recording specific categories featuring less renowned nominees faced strong opposition from the industry and was ultimately abandoned the following year. The Last Addition To Categories Was Done In 2011 The most recent addition to the Oscars occurred in 2001 with the introduction of the Best Animated Film category, marking a significant evolution in the recognition of diverse contributions to the world of filmmaking. Oscars 2024 This year, the award ceremony, following Indian Standard Time (IST), is slated for March 11, 2024, running from 4:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Prime Minister of the Republic of Albania Edi Rama has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on the occasion of his confident victory in the presidential election, Trend reports. "Your Excellency, Dear Brother, Your electoral success and re-election to the highest position of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, offers me the right opportunity to convey to you my best and most heartfelt wishes for success in this new presidential term. With the opportunity offered to me by the occasion, let me to express to you, on behalf of myself and the Albanian government, all our gratitude for the high-level dialogue between us and cooperation in such important sectors for our economies, especially in energy and tourism. I strongly believe that your new presidential mandate will release new energy into the relations between our two friendly countries, as well as I am convinced that the opening of the embassy of the Republic of Albania soon in Baku will contribute to the best of acceleration of communication between us. Once again, with best wishes, please accept, Your Excellency, the expression of my highest consideration," the letter reads. 2024 has an interesting lineup of upcoming movies. There are some of the biggest movie sequels all set to be released this year, and everyone, including us, is quite excited about them. Here is a list of all the follow-up movies that are making a comeback in 2024. Biggest movie sequels releasing in 2024 Twitter 1. Love Sex Aur Dhokha 2 Release Date: February 16 The sequel to the movie that marked Rajkummar Rao's debut in the industry is all set to grace the silver screens in 2024. While the first movie was about the MMS scandal, the second one is most likely about internet addiction and will revolve around a show like Bigg Boss. 2. Metro In Dino Release Date: March 29, 2024 Bringing together the bittersweet stories of contemporary couples, Metro In Dino is the sequel to the 2007 movie Life In A Metro, which starred Kangana Ranaut, Shiney Ahuja, Shilpa Shetty, Dharmendra, Irrfan Khan, and Kay Kay Menon in lead roles. This one will star Aditya Roy Kapur, Sara Ali Khan, Konkona Sen Sharma, Neena Gupta, Ali Fazal, Pankaj Tripathi, Anupam Kher, and Fatima Sana Shaikh. 3. Dune 2 Release date: March 1 The cinematic adaptation of the second half of Frank Herbert's epic sci-fi novel is one of the highly anticipated sequels of 2024. As Villeneuve told The Hollywood Reporter, "It's not a sequel where it's another episode or another story with the same characters. It actually has direct continuity with the first movie. It's the second part of the big, huge movie that I'm trying to do." 4. Deadpool 3 Release Date: May 3, 2024 One of the biggest movie sequels, Deadpool 3, has fans excited ever since Ryan Reynolds released the first-look photo featuring himself in the role of Wade Wilson being licked on the face by Dogpool. 5. A Quiet Place: Day One Release date: June 28 Written and directed by Michael Sarnoski and based on an original story by John Krasinski and Sarnosk, the third edition of the post-apocalyptic horror movie is said to be a prequel. 6. Venom 3 Release Date: July 12, 2024 The fifth movie in Sony's Spider-Man Universe and sequel to 2021s Venom: Let There Be Carnage, the yet-to-be-titled movie will conclude the trilogy featuring Tom Hardys Eddie Brock. 7. Singham Again twitter Release Date: August 15, 2024 Rohit Shetty is bringing together the entire cop universe in this one. Starring Deepika Padukone, Kareena Kapoor, Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar, Tiger Shroff, Ranveer Singh, and Arjun Kapoor, here are some of the exciting details about Singham Again, one of the highly anticipated sequels of 2024. 8. Pushpa 2 Release Date: August 15, 2024 Featuring Fahadh Faasil as Bhanwar Singh, Pushpa 2 already has fans excited ever since the first look of Allu Arjun in a saree and heavy makeup sporting bangles was released. 9. Stree 2 Release Date: August 2024 Bringing back the OG castShraddha Kapoor, Rajkummar Rao, Aparshakti Khurrana, Pankaj Tripathi, and Abhishek Banerjeethe sequel of the horror comedy movie will also be directed by Amar Kaushik. 10. Joker 2 web screen grab Release Date: October 4 The film that made Joaquin Phoenix win an Oscar for his applause-worthy performance and became the first R-rated movie to mint $1 billion is returning with a sequel. Titled Joker: Folie a Deux, this one will star Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn, and the first look already has fans excited. 11. Beetlejuice 2 Release Date: September 6, 2024 Thirty-six years later, Tim Burton will once again direct Michael Keaton in the role of Beetlegeuse, Winona Ryder as Lydia, and Jenna Ortega as her daughter. The cult classic movie is one of the most highly anticipated horror movies of 2024. 12. Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 Release Date: Diwali 2024 While Kartik Aaryan has said yes to the third chapter, it is said that Tabu has turned down this one. Rumour mills are abuzz that Sara Ali Khan might team up with Aaryan for the project. 13. Gladiator 2 Release Date: November 22, 2024 The sequel to the 2000 movie will be set 15 years later. It will show the Praetorian Guards in control of Rome and an adult Lucius looking for the truth about his biological father. 14. The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim Release Date: December 13, 2024 Set 183 years before the events of The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, the film is a prequel that will follow the story of Helm Hammerhand. The anime project will be directed by Kenji Kamiyama. 15. Sitare Zameen Par Release Date: Yet-to-be-announced While it is not a sequel and most likely the stories won't be interconnected, Sitare Zameen Par, as Aamir Khan said, shared the same theme as Taare Zameen Par. "That film made you cry; this one will make you laugh," he added. 16. Hera Pheri 3 Release Date: Yet-to-be-announced BH After a long wait, Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal are all set to tickle our funny bones as Raju, Ghanshyam, and Babu Bhaiya in the third installment of the comedy series. However, fans are upset that Farhad Samji is directing the movie. 17. Don 3 Release Date: Yet-to-be-announced After Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan, Ranveer Singh is all set to give his own spin to the iconic onscreen gangster boss in Don 3. Who will play Roma? That remains to be seen. 18. Drishyam 3 Release Date: Yet-to-be-announced It is said that the Hindi version starring Ajay Devgn and the Malayalam version starring Mohanlal will be shot simultaneously. Most likely, the film will be released in both languages together. 19. Kantara: A Legend Chapter-1 Release Date: Yet-to-be-announced Not a sequel, Kantara A Legend Chapter-1 is a prequel that will explore the backstory of the deity, how the legend took birth and how the troubled king made a pact with him to protect the villagers. For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. Holi 2024: Holi, also known as the Festival of Colours, is one of the most major and auspicious Hindu festivals not just celebrated in India but around the world with great enthusiasm and pomp. The festival commemorates the victory of good over evil, and the celebration of love and unity. Holi, a widely celebrated Hindu festival, is known for its exuberance and grandeur throughout the nation. In regions like West Bengal, Assam, and Tripura, it's also called the 'Festival of Colours', 'Dol jatra', or 'Basanta Utsav'. Traditionally observed in February or March in the Gregorian calendar, Holi symbolises the arrival of spring and the departure of winter. It coincides with the full moon or Purnima on the evening of the Hindu month of Phalguna. This festival brings people together, urging them to set aside their differences and revel in life's brighter moments. The celebration of Holi kicks off a day ahead of Dhulandi (the day of playing with colours). On this day, folks gather around a bonfire, singing and dancing. Many tales are linked to this festival, with 'Holika Dahan' being a well-known mythological character in one of them. In this article, you will learn about the festival of Holi such as its history, significance, celebration, tradition, etc. and also how many days until the festival so that you can start preparation in advance. Keep scrolling to know more: How many days until Holi 2024 | Holi 2024 countdown Happy Holi 2024 | Photo: Unsplash As of Wednesday, 13 March 2024, there are 12 days until Holi 2024 as the festival of colours also known as Dol Purnima, Rangwali Holi, Dhulandi, Dhuleti, Manjal Kuli, Yaosang, Ukuli, Jajiri, Shigmo, or Phagwah is celebrated. Holi is one of the major Hindu festivals that is celebrated by millions of people worldwide on the full moon date of Falgun month. This year, Holi will be celebrated on Monday, March 25, 2023. Holi 2024 Date And Time Holi 2024 in India will be celebrated on Monday, March 25, with Holika Dahan taking place on March 24. The auspicious time for Holika Dahan in 2024 is from 07:19 PM to 09:38 PM on March 24th. March 25th marks the joyful Rangwali Holi celebration. It's a day filled with vibrant colours and festive cheer. In many places, Holi is observed over two days. The initial day is called Jalanewali Holi, marked by the lighting of the Holi bonfire. It's also referred to as Chhoti Holi and Holika Dahan. The following day is named Rangwali Holi, dedicated to playful moments with colourful powder and water. This vibrant festival is widely cherished for its joyous festivities, symbolising the triumph of good over evil. Purnima Tithi Begins 09:54 AM on March 24, 2024 Purnima Tithi Ends 12:29 PM on March 25, 2024 History and Significance Of Holi Holi, the colourful festival, is one of India's happiest celebrations. It takes place during spring, usually in March, and is nicknamed the "Festival of Love" and the "Festival of colours." During Holi, people unite, setting aside their distinctions to revel in the happiness of life. Holi, a colourful festival celebrated in India, has its roots in ancient Hindu mythology. The story behind Holi revolves around the tale of Holika and Prahlad. Prahlad, a devoted follower of Lord Vishnu, was saved from harm by Lord Vishnu himself when his father, Hiranyakashyap, had evil intentions. Hiranyakashyap's sister, Holika, possessed a special power that made her immune to fire. She attempted to use this power to harm Prahlad by luring him to sit on her lap while she sat in a burning fire. Surprisingly, Prahlad remained unharmed, and Holika was engulfed by the flames. This victory of good over evil is commemorated on the first day of Holi, known as Holika Dahan. The festival, with its vibrant colours and joyous spirit, continues to be a cherished tradition, symbolising the triumph of righteousness over wickedness. What is the significance of Holi? Holi holds profound religious importance for Hindus, marking a pivotal event in the Hindu calendar. The festival is celebrated with immense joy and enthusiasm, spanning two consecutive days: Choti Holi and Dulhendi, also referred to as Badi Holi or Rang wali Holi. The festivities commence with Holika Dahan, a symbolic bonfire lit on the eve of Choti Holi. Why Holi is Known as the Festival of Colours? Holi gets its name as the festival of colours because it's a time when people joyfully splash each other with vibrant powders known as "gulal." This tradition, called "playing Holi," is the heart of the celebration. These colours, often made from natural ingredients like flowers and herbs, carry special meanings. For instance, red signifies love and fertility, while green symbolizes new beginnings and growth. Each colour reflects different emotions and feelings expressed during the festival. This lively and colourful tradition has led to Holi being recognized as the festival of colours. Holi 2024 FAQs: Q: What is Holi? Holi is a Hindu spring festival celebrated with enthusiasm and joy. It is often called the "festival of colours" as people playfully throw coloured powders and water at each other. Q: When is Holi celebrated? Holi is usually celebrated in March, marking the arrival of spring. The exact date varies each year, as it is based on the Hindu lunar calendar. Q: How is Holi celebrated? The celebration involves playing with colours, water balloons, and water guns. People come together, exchange sweets, and enjoy festive meals. It's a time for joy, music, and dance. Q: What is the significance of Holi? Holi symbolises the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring. It is associated with various mythological stories, including the legend of Holika and Prahlad. Q: Is Holi only celebrated in India? While Holi has its roots in India, it is celebrated in many other countries as well. Communities around the world, especially in regions with a significant Hindu population, observe Holi. Q: Are there any traditions or rituals associated with Holi? Apart from playing with colours, people perform religious rituals, visit temples, and light bonfires the night before Holi, known as Holika Dahan. Q: Are there any safety precautions during Holi? It's advisable to use natural, non-toxic colours to prevent skin allergies. Protecting the eyes and avoiding the use of harmful substances in the colours is also recommended. Q: Can anyone participate in Holi celebrations? Holi is a secular festival, and people of all ages and backgrounds join in the celebrations. It promotes unity and the breaking down of social barriers. Q: Are there any traditional Holi foods? Yes, there are various traditional sweets and snacks prepared during Holi, such as gujiya, malpua, and thandai. These are shared among friends and family. Q: How can I organise a safe and eco-friendly Holi celebration? Use organic colours, encourage water conservation, and promote responsible playing of colours. Respect the consent and preferences of others regarding participation in the festivities. (Note: Dates/timings may be subject to change; details mentioned here are as per the information available.) For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events Sukhna Lake, a serene oasis sprawled across 3 sq. km. and etched into Chandigarh's landscape since 1958, exudes picturesque charm, making it a must-visit destination in the city. But wait, a new irresistible addition is stirring up the tourism scene a 'Pizza ATM'! TIL/Lexica Chandigarh Industrial and Tourism Development Corporation (CITCO) has introduced a new pizza maker that can produce hot pizzas in just three minutes, which is a first in North India. It is located near calm waters, providing a tranquil atmosphere for visitors. Sole Pizza ATM of its kind in the country According to an Indian Express report, this recently installed pizza vending machine is the only operational ATM of its kind in India. Dr. Rohit Shekhar Sharma, Founder & CEO at iMatrix Group of Companies (iMatrix World Wide), the visionary behind this culinary delight, shared his insights, stating, "We drew inspiration from France for the 'Pizza ATM' concept. Determined to make it accessible, we crafted the machine ourselves at our Mohali factory." According to Sharma, a similar venture was tried in Mumbai post-Covid but didn't perform as well. However, the story is quite different here at Sukhna Lake. Sharma mentioned that their ATM dispenses an average of 100 pizzas daily, which jumps to 200-300 on weekends. Additionally, the prices are very reasonable, with a 35% discount compared to Domino's and Pizza Hut's rates. Workings of Pizza ATM How does it work, you wonder? Sharma spills the beans, "Once your pizza preference is selected, a robotic arm springs into action, assembling the base with your desired toppings, baking it to perfection, and serving it up in a mere three minutes. And guess what? The machine can multitask, whipping up to seven pizza bases simultaneously! CITCO officials revealed that the lakeside locale, teeming with tourists craving diverse culinary delights, paved the way for this savoury sensation. Representational Image/Lexica But the journey wasn't without its challenges Sharma recalled grappling with a Chinese machine that handled everything from dough to toppings. However, technical woes prompted a shift in strategy Sharma is responsible for the pizza ATM's day-to-day operations, from staffing and training to upkeep and maintenance. CITCO emphasised that the licensee must ensure a top-notch customer experience, right down to the ambience and cleanliness around the kiosk. Trend of Pizza ATMs in United States Pizza ATMs have become a fixture on college campuses in the US, offering fresh pizzas around the clock. According to Delish, they originated from Xavier University in 2016 and have spread to institutions like Ohio State University and now the University of North Florida. Operated by kitchen staff, these ATMs ensure students have access to hot meals, even during late-night study sessions. Representational Image/Lexica They accept on-campus dining dollars and provide a convenient dining option for students. Despite the $60,000 investment, universities see them as worthwhile for meeting students' needs. Hyderabad's Tea, Coffee, Water, and Biscuit ATM In June 2023, Hyderabad introduced the world's first Water, Tea, or Coffee (WTC) vending machine, revolutionising beverage and snack dispensing. This fully automated machine operates like a traditional street corner tea shop, offering tea, coffee, water, and biscuits 24/7 without human assistance. Customers simply scan the QR code on the machine to select their desired product, which the system promptly dispenses. Designed for user-friendliness, the machine features integrated voice assistance, ensuring a seamless experience for all users. This initiative addresses the scarcity of vending machines in India, particularly in public spaces like malls, government schools, and offices. For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News. In today's digital era, where technology permeates every facet of our lives, the challenge of maintaining a healthy work-life balance has intensified. The expectation for immediate responses has blurred the lines between work and personal life. Representational Image| Lexica To tackle this issue, the global focus has shifted towards the concept of the "Right to Disconnect," which has also been gaining popularity in India. Understanding the Right to Disconnect The current technology enables constant work connectivity, which may lead to increased productivity but also poses a risk to employee's mental health and work-life balance. Concept of the Right to Disconnect ensures employees can disengage from work-related communication outside of work hours, prioritising downtime and a healthy work-life balance. The Senate Select Committee on Work and Care noted the rise of "availability creep," where employees are expected to work outside of their scheduled hours, facilitated by smartphones. Remote work during the pandemic exacerbated the blurring of boundaries between work and personal life. A 2022 report by the Centre for Future Work revealed that 71% of surveyed workers often worked outside their scheduled hours, leading to fatigue, stress, disrupted personal lives, and decreased job satisfaction. Parliamentary inquiries emphasised the negative impact on mental and physical health, productivity, and turnover. Unpaid overtime resulting from availability creep detracts from fair compensation for workers. Legal status of 'Right to Disconnect' in India India currently lacks specific legislation recognising the Right to Disconnect, but certain provisions in existing laws and voluntary organisational policies address excessive work demands. New labour laws could mitigate technology's intrusion into personal lives, acknowledging the mental health impact of after-hours work communication. Representationa Image| Lexica MP Supriya Sule's 2018 bill proposed protecting employees' right to refuse post-work communication without disciplinary action. It would align with Article 21's right to life and personal liberty if enacted. In State of Punjab v. M.S. Chawla, Article 21 was interpreted to encompass the right to health, emphasising mental well-being. Global stand on 'Right to Disconnect' Australia is set to table legislation to empower workers to ignore unreasonable calls and messages after work, supported by the Labor Party to uphold workers' rights. It is taking cue from Belgium and Portugal, alongside other European countries, which introduced measures in 2022 to prohibit managers from contacting employees outside of working hours. Belgium granted around 65,000 federal civil servants the "right to disconnect" to promote a better work-life balance, with restrictions on contacting employees beyond designated hours. This move was aimed at alleviating stress and burnout, as highlighted by Belgian Minister Petra De Sutter at the time. Portugal's Labor Code similarly mandates that employers refrain from contacting workers during rest periods, with fines for violations. Lexica| Representational Image The following policies are part of a larger trend in Europe. While Europe has taken significant steps to address these issues, the United States is still behind. In 2016, France implemented the "right to disconnect" policy, followed by Italy in 2017, Spain in 2018, and Ireland in 2021. Furthermore, the European Union (EU) acknowledges the importance of the right to disconnect and demands its declaration as a fundamental right. Asserting boundaries: Managing after-hours calls from boss When faced with frequent after-hours work demands, it's crucial to establish boundaries in the absence of a definite legal framework in India. First, review your employment agreement to understand your obligations. If the agreement doesn't mandate working on off days, you can consider declining requests occasionally. Assess the urgency of the task and negotiate reasonable deadlines if possible. If you're consistently working beyond regular hours, communicate with your boss about the need for downtime to avoid burnout and maintain productivity. Lexica| Representational Image Additionally, consider your role within the organisation. If you're a project manager, avoiding after-hours communication related to projects may be challenging. However, if you're not directly responsible, discuss delegating tasks to others. Use your dedication to working extra hours as leverage during performance reviews for potential promotions or recognition for your commitment to the organisation's success. Reference articles Belgium, Portugal And Other European Countries Prohibit Managers From Contacting Employees Outside Of Working Hours (Forbes) Right to disconnect: The countries passing laws to stop employees working out of hours (World Economic Forum) Smartphones mean we're always available to our bosses. 'Right to disconnect' laws are a necessary fix (PTI) The concept of Right to Disconnect in India (Legal SYNK) For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News. Did you know that Vadnagar town in the Mehsana district of Gujarat is home to one of the oldest-known human settlements in the world? Vadnagar, which is also the hometown of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set for a boost in tourism, and to showcase its ancient history to the world. GUJARAT TOURISM Water screen projection of Vadnagar's history Recently the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited (TCGL) initiated a project to hold a water screen projection show over Sharmishtha Lake. It aims to showcase the history of Vadnagar town through an Aqua screen projection show, in addition to a musical fountain and lighting. This is the latest effort to highlight Vadnagar's ancient past, which dates back to around 800 BCE and had been a multi-cultural and multi-religious (Buddhist, Hindu, Jain and Islamic) settlement. Museum to display Vadnagar's artifacts Last year, the Union Ministry of Culture began setting up a museum in Vadnagar that will feature over 40,000 artifacts recovered during excavations in the area. BCCL The museum will use technologies such as AR/VR, 3D displays, replicas, and dioramas will enhance the visitor experience. Archaeological excavation in Vadnagar Earlier this year, Researchers from IIT Kharagpur, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) and Deccan College had found evidence of human settlement that is as old as 800 BCE in Vadnagar. "Excavation in its several deep trenches revealed the presence of seven cultural stages (periods) namely, Mauryan, Indo-Greek, Indo-Scythian or Shaka-Kshatrapas, Hindu-Solankis, Sultanate-Mughal (Islamic) to Gaekwad-British colonial rule and the city is continuing even today. One of the oldest Buddhist monasteries has been discovered during our excavation," ASI archaeologist Abhijit Ambekar said. BCCL According to him, the new-found evidence makes Vadnagar the oldest living city within a single fortification unearthed so far in India. "The earliest settlement period in Vadnagar started at least at 800 years BCE i.e. early Iron Age or questionably Late Vedic period and pre-dates both Buddhism and Jainism. This period continues into the Mauryan rule and ends with its fall around 150 year BCE. After the downfall of the Gupta Empire, large-scale de-urbanisation, drying up of water bodies, famines and population contraction across India occurred", IIT professor Anindya Sarkar said. GUJARAT TOURISM Earlier this week, the Gujarat Government had announced plans to build an airport in Vadnagar, due to its increase in popularity and tourism potential. For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News. Google has renamed its artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot Bard as Gemini as the search engine giant introduced a free app and subscription-based service for customers to try it out. Gemini is Google's latest large language model (LLM) and is named after an AI project unveiled late last year. GOOGLE Google Gemini In a few weeks, Google will put Gemini's features into its existing search app for iPhones, where Apple would prefer people rely on its Siri voice assistant for handling various tasks. Although the Google voice assistant that has been available for years will stick around, company executives say they expect Gemini to become the main way users apply the technology to help them think, plan, and create. It marks Google's next foray down a new and potentially perilous avenue while remaining focused on its founding goal to organize the worlds information and make it universally accessible and useful. REUTERS Gemini app release, fees The Gemini app initially will be released in the U.S. in English before expanding to the Asia-Pacific region next week, with versions in Japanese and Korean. Besides the free version of Gemini, Google will be selling an advanced service accessible through the new app for $20 (aprox Rs 1,660) a month. Gemini app available for free However, the tech giant is currently running a promotional offer where users can try it out for two months without a charge. "You can already chat with Gemini with our Pro 1.0 model in over 40 languages and more than 230 countries and territories. And now, were bringing you two new experiences Gemini Advanced and a mobile app to help you easily collaborate with the best of Google AI," Google said in a blog post. AFP "With our Ultra 1.0 model, Gemini Advanced is far more capable at highly complex tasks like coding, logical reasoning, following nuanced instructions and collaborating on creative projects. Gemini Advanced not only allows you to have longer, more detailed conversations; it also better understands the context from your previous prompts," it said. Google Gemini vs Microsoft Copilot With the launch of Gemini, Google is aiming to take on Open AI's ChatGPT. Microsoft, which is the biggest investor in OpenAI is already offering its AI chatbot Copilot to the general public at a subscription fee. For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis meeting with farmer representatives will reportedly take place on Monday Keywords The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) says troops of the Armed Forces of Nigeria operating in different areas eliminated 105 terrorists and apprehended 140 others in the last one week. Maj.Gen. Edward Buba, Director, Defence Media Operations, revealed this at a bi-weekly news briefing on the operations of the armed forces on Thursday in Abuja. According to him, the troops also arrested 26 perpetrators of oil theft and rescued 86 kidnapped hostages in the South South region. In the south-south, Buba said the troops of Operation Delta Safe destroyed 18 illegal refining sites and recovered 657,300 litres of stolen crude oil. READ ALSO: Female Kidnapper Married To Notorious Criminal Nabbed While Trying To Pick Ransom In Taraba During the operation, the troops destroyed nine dugout pits, 19 boats and 21 storage tanks, 35 cooking ovens, nine vehicles, nine mobile phones, and three pump machines, News Agency of Nigeria quoted Buba as saying. Buba furthered that the troops recovered 208 assorted weapons and 5,332 assorted ammunition comprising 95 AK47 rifles, one assault rifle, 39 locally fabricated guns, 34 dane guns, 14 pump action guns, among others. All recovered items, arrested suspects and rescued hostages were handed over to the relevant authorities for further action, he added. He noted that 224 ISWAP/JAS terrorists fighters and their families comprising 23 adult males, 126 adult females and 87 children surrendered to troops in Bama and Konduga areas of Borno within the week. Lagos, 31 January 2024 FirstBank, Nigerias premier financial institution and financial inclusion services provider, was announced as the Best Corporate Bank at the recent prestigious Euromoney Awards for Excellence, Nigeria 2023. The Bank clinched the coveted award based on its 130-year commitment to enabling its corporate customers achieve success through relevant and tailored financial solutions. FirstBanks continuous investment in technology has been crucial to its leading industry role in optimally meeting the needs of its corporate customers. Recent investments in technology include the development of its smart and interactive Transaction Banking Platform known as FirstDirect2.0. FirstDirect2.0 provides a one-stop shop online banking platform for corporates, offering best-in-class capabilities such as Payments, Collections, and Account Services, and a locally focused phased implementation of Trade and Supply Chain Finance a first for the Bank. The platform offers customers various solutions for corporate cash management (Payments, Collections and Liquidity Management). It will also deliver end-to-end trade solutions for corporate clients covering L/C creation, tracking, bidding and reconciliations. The Banks Corporate Banking model is focused on ensuring that its clients get the same quality of service across the Banks geographical locations. The execution of this approach through the deployment of the Global Account Management (GAM) Framework, implemented to enhance cross-relationship management tailored to Customers with a Pan African footprint. Dedicating the awards to its customers, Dr Adesola Adeduntan, CEO FirstBank Group said: We are thrilled to announce that we have been recognised as the Best Corporate Bank in Nigeria at the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2023. We say a heartfelt thank you to all our incredible customers for trusting us. This award is dedicated to YOU, he concluded. According to Euromoney, the Awards for Excellence is the definitive annual awards programme of the global banking industry. The awards represent the highest distinction to the banks and bankers who matter most in an industry where differentiation is highly sought after and exceptionally difficult to demonstrate. For over 30 years, Euromoney has recognised the banks and that have demonstrated their differentiation, pioneering a comprehensive awards programme that today remains the industry benchmark globally, it concluded. Amongst other awards, FirstBank recently added to its awards kitty, Best Corporate Bank Western Africa, 2023, by Global Banking and Finance; Best Internet Banking in Nigeria, 2023 by International Business Awards; the Most Innovative Banking Brand in Nigeria by Global Brands Awards as well as the Financial Institution of the Year 2023 by Afreximbank Pan-African Business and Development. About FirstBank First Bank of Nigeria Limited (FirstBank) is the premier Bank in West Africa and the leading financial inclusion services provider in Nigeria for 130 years. With over 800 business locations and over 232,000 Banking Agents spread across 99% of the 774 Local Government Areas in Nigeria, FirstBank provides a comprehensive range of retail and Corporate financial services to serve its over 42 million Customers. The Bank has an international presence with subsidiaries operating in 9 other countries. These subsidiaries are FirstBank (UK) Limited in London and Paris, FirstBank in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Guinea, Sierra Leone, The Gambia; FBNBank in Ghana and Senegal as well as a Representative Office in Beijing, China. The Bank is at the forefront of promoting digital banking in the country and has issued over 13 million cards, the first bank to achieve such a milestone. FirstBank has continued to make significant investments in technology, innovation and transformation, and its cashless transaction drive has been steadily accentuated with over 23 million active FirstBank customers signed up on digital channels including the USSD Quick Banking service through the nationally renowned *894# Banking code. FirstBanks commitment to Diversity is shown in its policies, partnerships and initiatives, such as its employees ratio of female to male (39%:61%); and 32% women in management), as well as the FirstBank Women Network, an initiative that seeks to address the gender gap and increase the participation of women at all levels within the organization. In addition, the Banks membership of the UN Women is an affirmation of a deliberate policy that is consistent with UN Womens Women Empowerments Principles Equal Opportunity, Inclusion, and Nondiscrimination. Since its establishment in 1894, FirstBank has consistently built relationships with customers focusing on the fundamentals of good corporate governance, strong liquidity, optimised risk management and leadership. Over the years, the Bank has led the financing of private investment in infrastructure development in the Nigerian economy by playing key roles in the Federal Governments privatisation and commercialisation schemes. With its global reach, FirstBank provides prospective investors Investors wishing to explore the vast business opportunities available in Nigeria an internationally competitive world-class brand and a credible financial partner. For six consecutive years (2011 2016), FirstBank was named Most Valuable Bank Brand in Nigeria by the globally renowned The Banker Magazine of the Financial Times Group and Best Retail Bank in Nigeria eight times in a row, 2011 2018, by the Asian Banker International Excellence in Retail Financial Services Awards. Notably, in 2022, the Bank took a long stride on its growth trajectory with the Banks Viability and Long-Term Issuer Default Ratings upgraded to B from B- (with Outlooks Stable) by Fitch, a leading global rating agency. This is an indication of the Banks strong internal capital generation and the corresponding recession of its risks to capitalisation. Fitch also upgraded the Banks National Long-Term Ratings to A (nga) from BBB (nga), to reflect its improved creditworthiness relative to that of other issuers in Nigeria. Furthermore, the Top 100 African Bank Rankings 2022 released by The Banker Magazine revealed FirstBanks ranking as number one in Nigeria in terms of Overall Performance, Profitability, Efficiency and Return on Risk. Other laudable feats in 2022 include FirstBanks international recognition on major indices by Euromoney Market Leaders, an independent global assessment of the leading financial service providers where FirstBank was crowned: Market Leader: (tier-1 recognition) in Corporate and Social Responsibility (CSR), Market Leader: (tier -1 recognition) Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG), Highly Regarded: in Corporate Banking and Digital Solutions, Notable: in SME Banking. Also, in 2022 International Finance Magazine named the Bank Most Innovative Banking Product in Nigeria and Best Retail Bank in Nigeria. FirstBank was also awarded Best Corporate Banking Western Africa, 2022 and Best CSR Bank Western Africa, 2022 by Global Banking and Finance Magazine. Other notable awards in FirstBank coffers include: Best Bank in Nigeria by Global Finance Magazine fifteen times in a row; Best Private Bank in Nigeria-2021 awarded by Global Finance magazine; Best Internet Banking Nigeria and Best CSR Bank Africa by International Business Magazine. In 2023, FirstBank received notable awards including Best Private Bank for Sustainable Investing in Africa 2023 by Global Finance Awards; Best Sustainable Bank in Nigeria 2023 by International Investors Awards; Best Bespoke Banking Services in Nigeria 2023 by International Investors Awards; Best Financial Inclusion Service Provider in Nigeria 2023 by Digital Banker Africa; and African Bank of the Year by African Leadership Magazine. Our vision is To be Africas Bank of first choice and our mission is To remain true to our name by providing the best financial services possible. This commitment is anchored on our core values of EPIC Entrepreneurship, Professionalism, Innovation and Customer-Centricity. Our strategic ambition is To deliver accelerated growth in profitability through customer-led innovation and disciplined execution and our brand promise is always to deliver the ultimate gold standard of value and excellence to position You First in every respect. Federal Government (FG) cannot disburse the N100 billion earmarked for buses powered by Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) without the approval of the National Assembly (NASS), says the Senate Committee on Gas. This is as the Committee asked Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, on Wednesday, to provide details on the disbursement of N100 billion for the project. Recall that in August 2023, FG disclosed it would invest N100 billion between then and March 2024, to acquire 3,000 units of 20-seater buses powered by CNG. In December, another N130 billion was budgeted for CNG conversion and electric vehicles, but not much has been heard about the project since then. Jarigbe Jarigbe, the Committees Chairman, in a Thursday statement, noted that there is a plot to blackmail the panels inquiry into the project. The committee insists that it amounts to breach of the procurement act for the presidential committee on CNG to go ahead with the disbursement without the approval of the National Assembly. READ ALSO: Nigerias Economy In A Better Place Than It Was Before Tinubu Assumed Office Wale Edun The President has good intentions and we cannot allow his intentions to be frustrated. Nigerians are in pain and we want results. There was no threat contained in the committees letter to the minister. It was an official letter and properly worded with respect to the office and person of the minister. The reported threat to pull down the PCNG was therefore another joke taken too far by the online media and what it represents in this instance. The senate is saddled with the responsibility of oversight and we will be failing in our duties if we are indifferent to how agencies of government spend the funds released for various projects. We as a committee therefore cannot be blackmailed or intimidated to abandon constitutional responsibility and the committee still stands by its seven-day ultimatum given to the minister to furnish details of the disbursement of the fund which was in gross violation of the Public Procurement Act of 2007, the statement read. The Senator however expressed dismay over reports that portrayed the committees inquiry as a threat to Edun. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsperson) of the Republic of Azerbaijan Sabina Aliyeva has commented on the detection of a mass burials in Asgaran, Trend reports, referring to the Ombudsperson's office of Azerbaijan. "Thousands of our compatriots were slaughtered, taken captive and missing, and held hostage as a result of Armenia's long-standing occupation, genocide, deportations, and terror against Azerbaijan, all motivated by ethnic and religious hatred. Following the liberation of our lands from occupation, mass graves were discovered on the territories of Sarijali village in Aghdam district, Dashalti village in Shusha district, Edilli village in Khojavend district, Farrukh village in Khojaly district, Yukhary Seidahmedli village in Fuzuli district, Kalbajar, Aghdam, and other villages. The discovery of another mass grave in the Asgaran settlement of Khojaly district, presumably belonging to inhabitants slaughtered during the Khojaly massacre, verifies Armenia's most serious crime against humanity, genocide, namely, against Azerbaijan. Despite repeated appeals to international organizations regarding genocide crimes committed by Armenia, the facts of genocide have not yet received legal assessment at the international level, and the culprits of multiple crimes have not been prosecuted. International organizations should put an end to an indifferent attitude towards Azerbaijan accompanied by double standards, give legal assessment to such crimes that caused mass and gross violations of human rights and freedoms, and bring to justice those responsible for committing crimes," Aliyeva said in her comment. To note, a mass grave was found in the Asgaran settlement of Khojaly district. At least eight human remains were found in the burial site discovered near Asgaran fortress. It is assumed that the remains belong to the victims of the Khojaly massacre. Stay up to date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel The Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has disclosed that he will not allow anyone or group of people to sabotage his government. Fubara added that his government will deal decisively with anybody who wants to disrupt the ongoing 20,000 housing units project in the state. During an inspection of the construction site along the Obiri-Ikwerre-Airport Road opposite OPM Headquarters in Ohio/Akpor Local Government Area on Thursday, the Governor expressed his determination to ensure the smooth progress of this significant development. In a statement released by his media aide, Boniface Onyedi, highlighted Fubaras concerns over reports of threats from some community members to disrupt the construction activities. The statement reads: I am also aware that some of the community people are coming up with issues. But let it be clear, we didnt jump into this land, we did all the due diligence that we needed to do. We took our time to check the land. It is a property that belongs to the Rivers State Government under the Greater Port Harcourt City Development Authority. READ MORE: Suspected Thugs Disrupt Fubaras Supreme Court Victory Rally We are not taking anybodys land. However, if you feel that there is an encroachment, you should know the right authority to visit. Nobody should come here and disturb the contractor, that is the truth because I am going to take it personally as sabotage to my government. I know a lot of people are trying to do one thing or the other to sabotage us. I am not going to take it lightly. In as much as I believe that peace is the major ingredient that we need for every development, it doesnt mean I will be quiet when I see anybody that will come here to disrupt this project. You can see for yourselves that the contractor means business. When we came here in December, it was a bush, and today we can see a lot of buildings spring up. It means that the contractor is serious. I am really impressed, and as a government, one of the things we owe our people is decent housing. Just as the president said today when he was doing a groundbreaking for the Renewed Hope City, he said every Nigerian deserve a decent home. For attempted robbery, a Lagos Special Offences Court in Ikeja, on Thursday, sentenced one Toheeb Korede to seven years imprisonment. This is as Justice Olubunmi Abike-Fadipe found Korede guilty of the charge against him by the State Government. Korede was initially facing a two-count charge bordering on conspiracy to commit robbery and armed robbery under sections 299 & 297(2)(a) of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State 2015. He was however sentenced on both charges due to sufficient evidence of conspiracy and actual robbery as presented by the Lagos State Government. READ ALSO: Reactions As Funke Akindele Receives Brand New Car At Event (Video) The discovery of a handmade pistol in Koredes possession led to his conviction for attempted robbery. The convict, who was arrested on November 11, 2020, and arraigned November 17, 2020, pleaded not guilty to the charge. The Adebanke Ogunode-led prosecution counsel, brought forward witnesses including a victim. The Investigating Police Officer (IPO) also testified against Korede. In his testimony, the witness recounted his encounter with three men on a motorcycle at the Jakande bus stop in Eti-Osa, Lagos, stating that Korede and another individual robbed him of his smartphone and N125,000 at gunpoint. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Thursday, directed the release of 42,000 metric tons of assorted food items from both the strategic reserve and the Rice Millers Association of Nigeria. The directive however serves as a short-term response to the rising shortage of food in the country. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, announced the directive following a Thursday meeting of the special presidential committee on emergency food intervention. Idris noted that the government has proposed to embark on importation of whatever shortfalls that may be experienced after the release of the food commodities. While maintaining that government will sanction food hoarders, he noted that emergency situations require emergency measures to ensure food is available to Nigerians. READ ALSO: Court Gives FG Seven-Day Ultimatum To Fix Prices Of Goods, Petrol According to Idris, the Rice Millers Association of Nigeria has also committed to releasing about 60,000 metric tons of rice to the markets. The first one is that the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has been directed to release about 42,000 metric tons of maize, millet, garri, and other commodities in their strategic reserve so that these items will be made available to Nigerians; 42,000 metric tons immediately. The second one is that we have held meetings with the Rice Millers Association of Nigeria. Those who are responsible for producing this rice and we have asked them to open up their stores. Theyve told us that they can guarantee about 60,000 metric tons of rice. They will make that available to Nigerians; to bring out to the market to make food available, he told reporters. The committee, convened by Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to the President, had met at the presidential villa, Abuja on February 6 over the rising cost of living in the country. It follows Mondays protest by some residents of Minna, Niger State, who blocked major roads in the metropolis over the rising cost of living in the country. Microsoft Fabric is an end-to-end, software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform for data analytics. It is built around a data lake called OneLake, and brings together new and existing components from Microsoft Power BI, Azure Synapse, and Azure Data Factory into a single integrated environment. Microsoft Fabric encompasses data movement, data storage, data engineering, data integration, data science, real-time analytics, and business intelligence, along with data security, governance, and compliance. In many ways, Fabric is Microsofts answer to Google Cloud Dataplex. As of this writing, Fabric is in preview. Microsoft Fabric is targeted at, well, everyone: administrators, developers, data engineers, data scientists, data analysts, business analysts, and managers. Currently, Microsoft Fabric is enabled by default for all Power BI tenants. Microsoft Fabric Data Engineering combines Apache Spark with Data Factory, allowing notebooks and Spark jobs to be scheduled and orchestrated. Fabric Data Factory combines Power Query with the scale and power of Azure Data Factory, and supports over 200 data connectors. Fabric Data Science integrates with Azure Machine Learning, which allows experiment tracking and model registry. Fabric Real-Time Analytics includes an event stream, a KQL (Kusto Query Language) database, and a KQL queryset to run queries, view query results, and customize query results on data. If KQL is new to you, welcome to the club. IDG Microsoft Fabric home screen. Note the links to Power BI, Data Factory, Data Activator, Synapse Data Engineering, Synapse Data Science, Synapse Data Warehouse, and Synapse Real-Time Analytics. OneLake OneLake is a unified, logical data lake for your whole organization; every tenant has one and only one data lake. OneLake is designed to be the single place for all your analytics data, much in the same way as Microsoft wants you to use OneDrive for all your files. To simplify using OneLake from your desktop, you can install OneLake file explorer for Windows. OneLake is built on Azure Data Lake Storage (ADLS) Gen2 and can support any type of file. However, all Fabric data components, such as data warehouses and data lakehouses, store their data automatically in OneLake in Delta format (based on Apache Parquet), which is also the storage format used by Azure Databricks. It doesnt matter whether the data was generated by Spark or SQL, it still goes into a single data lake in Delta format. Creating a OneLake data lakehouse is fairly straightforward: Switch to the Data Engineering view, create and name a new lakehouse, and upload some CSV files to the file portion of the data lake. IDG In the data engineering view of Microsoft Fabric, you can see your files and tables. Tables are in Delta Parquet format. When you select a file, you get a three-dot menu for performing operations on that file, for example loading it into a table. Getting from there to having tables in the lakehouse can (currently) be more work than you might expect. You would think that the Load to Tables pop-up menu item would do the job, but it failed for my initial tests. I eventually discovered, with help from Microsoft Support, that the Load to Tables function doesnt (as of this writing) know how to handle column titles with embedded spaces. Ouch. All the competing lakehouses handle that without a hitch, but Fabric is still in preview. I am assured that this capability will be added in the released product. I did get that conversion to work with cleaned-up CSV files. I was also able to run a Spark SQL query in a notebook against a new table. IDG Fabric notebooks support both Python and SQL. Here we are using Spark SQL to display the contents of a OneLake lakehouse table. Spark isnt the only way to run SQL queries against the lakehouse tables. You can access any Delta-format table on OneLake via a SQL endpoint, which is created automatically when you deploy the lakehouse. A SQL endpoint references the same physical copy of the Delta table on OneLake and offers a T-SQL experience. Its basically using Azure SQL rather than Spark SQL. As youll see later, OneLake can host Synapse Data Warehouses as well as lakehouses. Data warehouses are best for users with T-SQL skills, although Spark users can also read data in warehouses. You can create shortcuts in OneLake so that lakehouses and data warehouses can access tables without duplicating data. Power BI Power BI has been expanded to be able to work with OneLake lakehouse (Delta) tables. As always, Power BI can perform basic business intelligence data analysis and report generation, and integrate with Microsoft 365. IDG A Power BI report within Microsoft Fabric. Pretty much all the important features of Power BI have been carried over into Fabric. Data Factory Data Factory in Microsoft Fabric combines citizen data integration and pro data integration capabilities. It connects to some 100 relational and non-relational databases, lakehouses, data warehouses, and generic interfaces. You can import data with dataflows, which allow large-scale data transformations with some 300 transformations, use the Power Query editor, and apply Power Querys Data Extraction By Example. I tried a dataflow that imported and transformed two tables from the Northwind dataset. I was impressed with the capabilities until the final publishing step failed. OK, its in preview. You can also use data pipelines to create data orchestration workflows that bring together tasks like data extraction, loading into preferred data stores, notebook execution, and SQL script execution. I successfully imported two sample datasets, Public Holidays and NY Taxi rides, and saved them into data lakes. I didnt test the capability to update the pipeline periodically. If you need to load on-premises data into OneLake, you will eventually be able to create an on-premises data gateway and connect that to a dataflow. As a temporary workaround, you can copy your on-prem data to the cloud and load it from there. Data Activator According to Microsoft, Data Activator is a no-code experience in Microsoft Fabric for automatically taking actions when patterns or conditions are detected in changing data. It monitors data in Power BI reports and Eventstreams items, for when the data hits certain thresholds or matches other patterns. It then automatically takes appropriate action such as alerting users or kicking off Power Automate workflows. Typical use cases for Data Activator include running ads when same-store sales decline, alerting store managers to move food from failing grocery store freezers before it spoils, and alerting account teams when customers fall into arrears, with customized time or value limits per customer. Data Engineering Most of what I discussed in the OneLake section above actually falls under data engineering. Data Engineering in Microsoft Fabric includes the lakehouse, Apache Spark job definitions, notebooks (in Python, R, Scala, and SQL), and data pipelines (discussed in the Data Factory section above). Data Science Data Science in Microsoft Fabric includes machine learning models, experiments, and notebooks. It has about half a dozen sample notebooks. I chose to run the time series forecasting model sample, which uses Python, the Prophet library (from Facebook), MLflow, and the Fabric Autologging feature. The time series forecasting sample uses the NYC Property Sales data dataset, which you download and then upload to a data lakehouse. Prophet uses a traditional seasonality model for time series prediction, a refreshing departure from the trend towards increasingly complicated machine learning and deep learning models. The total run time for the fitting and predictions was 147 seconds, not quite three minutes. IDG Prediction of property sales after fitting NYC property sales data to a Prophet seasonality model. Data Warehouse Data Warehouse in Microsoft Fabric aims to converge the worlds of the data lakes and data warehouses. Its not the same as the SQL Endpoint of the lakehouse: The SQL Endpoint is a read-only warehouse that is automatically generated upon creation from a lakehouse in Microsoft Fabric, while the Data Warehouse is a traditional data warehouse, meaning it supports the full transactional T-SQL capabilities like any enterprise data warehouse. As opposed to the SQL Endpoint, where tables and data are automatically created, Data Warehouse puts you fully in control of creating tables and loading, transforming, and querying your data in the data warehouse using either the Microsoft Fabric portal or T-SQL commands. I created a new warehouse and loaded it with Microsoft-provided sample data. That turns out to be another taxi trip dataset (from a different year), but this time factored into warehouse tables. Microsoft also provides some sample SQL scripts. IDG Fabric Data Warehouse data preview for one table. Note the messages about the automatically created Power BI dataset at the top. IDG Fabric Data Warehouse model view. IDG Fabric Data Warehouse query view. Microsoft supplied the SQL script as part of the sample. Real-Time Analytics Real-Time Analytics in Microsoft Fabric is closely related to Azure Data Explorer, so closely that the documentation links for Real-Time Analytics currently go to Azure Data Explorer documentation. I have been assured that the actual Fabric documentation is being updated. Real-Time Analytics and Azure Data Explorer use Kusto Query Language (KQL) databases and queries. Querying data in Kusto is much faster than the transactional RDBMS, such as SQL Server, especially when the data size grows to billions of rows. Kusto is named after Jacques Cousteau, the French undersea explorer. I used a Microsoft sample, weather analytics, to explore KQL and Real-Time Analytics. That sample includes a script with several KQL queries. IDG The Fabric Real-Time Analytics sample gallery currently offers half a dozen examples, with data sizes ranging from 60 MB for weather analytics to almost 1 GB for New York taxi rides. The KQL query for the screenshot below is interesting because it uses geospatial functions and renders a scatter chart. //We can perform Geospatial analytics with powerful inbuilt functions in KQL //Plot storm events that happened along the south coast let southCoast = dynamic({"type":"LineString","coordinates":[[-97.18505859374999,25.997549919572112],[-97.58056640625,26.96124577052697],[-97.119140625,27.955591004642553],[-94.04296874999999,29.726222319395504],[-92.98828125,29.82158272057499],[-89.18701171875,29.11377539511439],[-89.384765625,30.315987718557867],[-87.5830078125,30.221101852485987],[-86.484375,30.4297295750316],[-85.1220703125,29.6880527498568],[-84.00146484374999,30.14512718337613],[-82.6611328125,28.806173508854776],[-82.81494140625,28.033197847676377],[-82.177734375,26.52956523826758],[-80.9912109375,25.20494115356912]]}); StormEvents | project BeginLon, BeginLat, EventType | where geo_distance_point_to_line(BeginLon, BeginLat, southCoast) < 5000 | render scatterchart with (kind=map) //Observation: Because these areas are near the coast, most of the events are Marine Thunderstorm Winds IDG Despite having 60 MB of data, this geospatial KQL query ran in a third of a second. Broad scope and deep analytics While I discovered numerous bugs while exploring the preview of Microsoft Fabric, I also got a good idea of its broad scope and deep analytic capabilities. When it is fully shaken down and fleshed out, it might well compete with Google Cloud Dataplex. Is Microsoft Fabric really appropriate for everybody? I have no idea. But I can say Fabric does a good job of allowing you to view just your area of current interest with the view switcher in the bottom left corner of the interface, which reminds me of the way Adobe Photoshop serves its various audiences (photographers, retouchers, artists and so on). Unfortunately, Photoshop has the well-earned reputation of not only having a lot of power, but being a bear to learn. Whether Fabric will develop a similar reputation remains to be seen. An installation from The Mirage from the Alhamdu Muslim Futurusim exhibit created by MIPSTERZ at Twelve Gates Arts in Philadelphia on Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024. Read more Tucked away in an unassuming pocket of Old City is an invitation to dream of a Muslim future. An immersive art installation, The Mirage, asks the viewer: What would a world rooted in the egalitarian values of Islam look like? And what do those experiencing the exhibit want to contribute to make that world a reality? The installation is part of the exhibit ALHAMDU | Muslim Futurism, a project by the national arts and culture collective MIPSTERZ, and will be on exhibit at Twelve Gates Arts gallery through Feb. 24. There are tentative plans for the exhibit to travel to Iowa City this summer, and Colorado Springs in the fall. Inspired by schools of thought such as Afrofuturism and the teachings of people like Malcolm X, the installation transports viewers to a world where no one experiences oppression and asks them to reflect on their ability to create that world. Advertisement We wanted to extract some theoretical principles and themes, and thats how we came up with community, identity, imagination, liberation, and resistance, said Boston-based Abbas Rattani, founder of MIPSTERZ. Theres something about the idea of the flourishing of a marginalized population that resonates with people. When Atif Sheikh and Aisha Khan, Philly residents who cofounded Twelve Gates Arts in 2011, learned about the installation through an artist connected with MIPSTERZ, they knew they had to display it at their gallery, a nonprofit that exhibits contemporary art from South and West Asian and North African artists. Khan said they thought it would be an installation that would speak to Phillys large and diverse Muslim population, while creating a safe space for them. While The Mirage is rooted in the theory of Muslim Futurism, the space it creates is meant to serve all communities. Its already drawn in nonMuslims who are curious about the faith and about Muslim communities. Twelve Gates Arts is not a place for religion. But with this exhibition, its more about resistance movements around the world and solidarity with them, Sheikh said. Step into Twelve Gates Arts, and youll be greeted by the hum of a whirring fan and dreamscape sounds. Three transparent, gauzelike white sheets hang from the ceiling to the floor, staggered and layered as they softly blow back and forth with the wind. Video footage is projected onto the sheets: Black Americans, Arabs, Malaysian, Indonesian, East Africans, Latinos, queer people Muslims of all races, ethnicities, genders, and sexual orientations walking the empty streets of New York City or roaming the deserts of Joshua Tree in California. Occasionally, they pause to strike a regal pose an appropriation, Rattani said of the old portraits of European kings and dukes that celebrated the colonization of these very communities. Their outfits are a fusion of traditional cultural clothing Tunisian Chechia caps, Palestinian keffiyehs, Malaysian sarongs with global street fashion. Air Force One jackets are adorned with intricate South Asian patterns, a turquoise kurta sherwani is paired with pink, heart-shaped sunglasses, a hijab with Nike high-tops. It highlights the cosmopolitanism that is Islam and theres this amalgamation of different communities and cultures that represent Muslims, Rattani said. There is no border of where one identity begins and another one ends. We are the people of Planet Earth. When attendees walk into the gallery, there is a QR code to scan to submit an answer to this question: What would you like to contribute to a Muslim future? Preset options pop up: Harmony? Beauty? Perhaps nothing? Upon submitting their chosen answer, visitors step into a blue square adhered to the floor, centered in front of the projection. Everything slows. Kaleidoscope imagery dances on the fluttering sheets before unveiling a verse from the Quran in response to the submitted answer. Justice, for example, yields the phrase, Be custodians of justice. Another answer reveals, Time doesnt change, time rewards. My hope is that folks would see some of the beauty thats represented there. Shimul Chowdhury The Mirage is not just an environment, but rather something that you converse with, said Shimul Chowdhury, an art director with MIPSTERZ. Not only are we immersing our viewers into a vision of a Muslim future that could be possible, but also were giving them an opportunity to get some guidance from it as well. Ultimately, the creators of the installation say they want people to walk away with a sense of joy, pride, and inspiration. My hope is that folks would see some of the beauty thats represented there and feel motivated and inspired to help make that a reality, Chowdhury said. Twelve Gates Arts is located at 106 N. Second St., Philadelphia, 19106. The gallery is open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Mirage will be on display through Feb. 24. Amritha Mallikarjun leads Helen, a dog who can detect ovarian cancer, through an obstacle course, at the Penn Vet Working Dog Center in Philadelphia. Read more The University of Pennsylvanias veterinary school did not receive state funding for 2023-24, the first time in more than 130 years. The funding was withheld by the legislature amid concerns about Penns handling of antisemitism allegations, a controversy that ultimately resulted in the resignation of former president Liz Magill and board chair Scott L. Bok. But Gov. Shapiro this week once again included funding in his proposed budget for the veterinary school. The budget plan calls for just over $33 million for the vet school and Penn Medicines Division of Infectious Diseases, according to the governors office. READ MORE: Pa. House GOP leader tells Penn how it can address antisemitism concerns to get blocked funding for vet school Advertisement Its uncertain whether that funding ultimately will be approved but a spokesperson for the Pennsylvania House Republican Leader expressed optimism about the direction of talks with the university. We have had constructive dialogue with leadership at the University of Pennsylvania and hope to continue those productive conversations over the coming weeks as we work toward the shared goal of eliminating antisemitism and call for the genocide of Jewish people, said Jason Gottesman, press secretary for Pennsylvania House Republican Leader Bryan Cutler (R., Lancaster). State Rep. Jesse Topper (R., Bedford), a member of the task force formed by the House Republicans to address concerns about antisemitism at Penn, told The Daily Pennsylvanian, the student newspaper: I believe that [Shapiro] sees that ... there could be a path forward. He wants we all want that relationship to be restored. READ MORE: Some Pa. senators say they wont approve more than $31 million in state funding for Penn Vet until Liz Magill resigns Penn Vet expressed appreciation for Gov. Shapiros decision to include the funding in the proposed budget. We look forward to working with the General Assembly to continue the schools long-standing public-private partnership with the commonwealth in fiscal year 2024-2025 and resolving the need to fund Penn Vets state-related work this fiscal year, said Martin Hackett, the vet schools chief communications officer. Throughout the impasse, Penn Vet has continued to fulfill its educational and service missions to the commonwealth in good faith just as it has for over 139 years. Shapiro, in his budget address Tuesday, identified agriculture as one of five industries targeted for growth and state investment. Penn Vet, Hackett said, plays a vital role in advancing the profitability, viability, and safety of Pennsylvanias farms. Why Pa. Republicans blocked funding for Penn Vet House Republicans announced in December that they would form a task force to address concerns about antisemitism at Penn. At that time, Cutler, in a letter to Penn, said lawmakers were looking for an unequivocal public statement that antisemitism and calls for the genocide of Jewish people would violate the schools code of conduct. The letter followed congressional testimony given by Magill, who said it was a context-dependent decision on whether calling for the genocide of Jewish people would violate Penns regulations, a response similar to that of the former president of Harvard Claudine Gay and Massachusetts Institute of Technology president Sally Kornbluth. Magill later issued a video statement clarifying her position, saying she does view such speech as harassment or intimidation and would launch a review of Penns policies on free speech. Just a few days later, she resigned. Gay resigned in January. Even after Magills resignation, Republicans blocked funding for Penn Vet this year. READ MORE: Penn president Liz Magill has resigned following backlash over her testimony about antisemitism Penn Vet has received some form of state funding since 1889. The $33 million represents about one-fifth of its annual budget. The funds require approval from two-thirds of the General Assembly. Cutler also has said Republicans are looking for support from Penn on state bills to address antisemitism and assurances that no financial support is going toward antisemitism through student organizations or the university. Critics have raised concerns about Penn not adequately supporting its Palestinian students and faculty and those advocating for them and have warned against conflating criticism of Israel with antisemitism. Last month, a newly formed faculty group held a die-in vigil on campus in recognition of the lives lost in Gaza since Oct. 7. Hamas launched its attack on Israel on Oct. 7. Penn in November rolled out a plan to combat antisemitism, including a task force that is expected to issue its report this spring, and a student advisory group on the Jewish student experience. At the same time, it announced a presidential commission to deal with the interconnectedness of antisemitism and other forms of hate, including Islamophobia. The School District of Philadelphia was at the top of big-city school districts in academic recovery post pandemic, according to new research out of Harvard and Stanford Universities. Read more Philadelphia schools had the strongest academic recovery among large urban districts, according to a new research study, and generally, math performance for third through eighth graders is improving across the district. Those were the top takeaways from the school boards Goals and Guardrails meeting Thursday night, a session not for voting but for monitoring academic progress in the district of 113,000 students. Here are the highlights from the meeting: Were number one! According to the Education Recovery Scorecard, a research project out of Harvard and Stanford Universities, Philadelphia is recovering from the pandemic faster than other large city school systems as well as other districts in Pennsylvania. Measured against other large, poor urban districts, Philadelphia approached its pre-pandemic math achievement faster than any other citys schools, with students recovering almost half a grade of learning during the 2022-23 school year. Los Angeles schools were just behind Philadelphia. Advertisement In reading, the district bested its pre-pandemic levels and showed more growth than similar districts only Chicago public schools grew faster. Examining the district against other schools in the commonwealth, Philadelphia is closer than any of its peer districts Pittsburgh, Bethlehem, Erie, Scranton and Wilkes-Barre to pre-pandemic math performance, and above pre-pandemic reading levels compared to those same districts. It also bested the state growth in reading and math. This is really significant for our students, said Superintendent Tony B. Watlington Sr. The School District of Philadelphia is almost back to pre-pandemic levels, said Tonya Wolford, the districts chief of evaluation, research and accountability. Still, Philadelphia had and has a long way to go. District students achievement ranks near the bottom of all big-city school districts as measured by the only exam given to schools nationally. But, Watlington said, progress matters, even if the starting point is low. Any time the School District of Philadelphia can get in first place in terms of rebound and improvement, we should celebrate and applaud our students and staff and say, well were on the right track and yet we have a long way to go and a lot of work to do, Watlington told the board. We need to let our teachers and our students know that success begets more success. Monitoring math District staff and the school board spent most of Thursday nights meeting scrutinizing the districts third through eighth graders progress in math. Philadelphia students math performance jumped in state tests 20.1% of students met or exceeded standards in 2022-23 as measured by the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment, up from 16.5% the prior year. District pupils also improved on the Star exam performance, a test students take several times during the year to chart progress. In the winter of 2022-23, 17.4% of students in grades 3 to 8 scored at or above benchmark in math; that jumped to 19.3% this school year. Students posted improvements across racial/ethnic groups. An additional 30.7% of students were on watch, that is, scored in the 25th to 39th percentile. Districtwide, 17.6% of students needed strategic interventions, scoring in the 10th to 24th percentile. The largest group of students districtwide landed in the lowest category, intensive intervention, meaning they scored below 10%. Though students in kindergarten through second grade do not take state tests, their progress is charted by Star math. Philadelphias K-2 students saw increases in performance by every curriculum-based measure concepts like numeral recognition, quantity comparison, addition to 10 and 20 and subtraction from 10, depending on the childs grade level. Board vice president Mallory Fix Lopez said the early-grade gains were particularly significant and would really set us on a pathway for much more sustainable, faster-driving improvement. What about the new math curriculum? Philadelphia is spending $70 million on new math, reading and science curriculum over the next few years; it rolled out the new math curriculum, Illustrative Math, in the fall. District staff told the board that 83% of district staff who participated in trainings reported they felt prepared to teach the curriculum, though not all staff took part in the trainings. Teachers told district leadership that generally, they have the materials they need to successfully teach the new math curriculum, but a lack of time is a barrier to implementation. What does it all mean? Asked by one board member what the improvements mean, Watlington was emphatic. The gains show that the district and board are good stewards of the publics tax dollars, the superintendent said. We are getting a significant return on our investment, even though theres a lot more work to do. The data tells us that if we invest in highly qualified teachers and principals and we improve student and teacher attendance, well get better. Board member Lisa Salley, who often drives home how far the district has to go to reach its goals, said she was impressed. This is really exciting to see this information and this data, Salley said. President Reginald Streater, father of a fifth grader and a fourth grader who attend C.W. Henry Elementary, a neighborhood public school in Mount Airy, went one step further. Im excited, Streater said. Im giddy with this. One summer night in 2015, Olivia Phan and her husband, Ian Hayden, were at dinner at Bridget Foys on South Street when they met a particularly charming waiter. He was very talkative, and gregarious, a really nice guy, Hayden recalls. Then he proceeded to get all of our orders wrong. Listen, he said, Im obviously not a waiter. What Im trying to do is start doing music classes for kids. Would you like to come to one? The server was John Francisco, a Georgia-born musician, actor, and educator who had recently moved to Philadelphia from Chicago. He had just started Mister Johns Music, a school thats fostered a community of music-loving families and turned Francisco into a South Philly celebrity. Advertisement He now heads a growing childrens music empire with a new headquarters in a converted South Philly town house, plus satellite sites around the Philadelphia area and South Jersey, and start-up schools in Atlanta and Brooklyn. Phan and Hayden brought their oldest daughter, Levity, to a rented dance studio near South Street when she was 1. That first early childhood music lesson was built around the music of Beyonce. There was one other couple with their toddler, Phan says. From the very first minute, we were like Wow! It really put to shame every other experience we had for parents and babies here in Philadelphia. The rest of the South Philly couples story is typical among Franciscos fans. Levity, now 10, and the couples other daughters, Serena, 8, and Treble, 6, play multiple instruments and have attended Mister Johns classes and open mic performances since they were infants. Hayden has taken adult guitar classes and is considering ukulele lessons. Class with Mister John What John does brilliantly is say, the kids are going to have fun, theres music, theres shakers, theyre going to learn about important things, he says. But instead of Twinkle, Twinkle, you get somebody who is incredibly accomplished musically singing songs you would hear on the radio. Its not a chore anymore. On a recent Thursday in the spacious Eighth Street studio Mister Johns moved into in October, it was Gwen Stefani week. The class would make themselves heard on Dont Speak and other No Doubt favorites. But Francisco kicked off the class for a dozen or so dancing, delighted 1- to 4-year-old music lovers and their parents, grandparents, and caregivers with Love, from the 1973 Disney movie Robin Hood on the guitar. He then switched to piano for a jaunty take on Amy Winehouses Valerie. Julie Wilen, whose twins Sloan and Jesse, 5, are Mister Johns veterans, was in the class with her 2 1/2-year-old daughter Ellie. She compared Francisco to a way more fun Mister Rogers. The lessons are about accepting others. He really makes you feel like youre part of a community. Wilens twins attended classes pre-pandemic but really became hooked during lockdown, watching weekly episodes featuring Francisco and his fellow teachers mixing in classic childrens songs with artists like Sia or Rihanna. We watched those videos every single day, Wilen says. They would remember what shirt he wore in each and say I want to watch rainbow Mister John or I want to watch yellow Mister John. A musical kid Franciscos own musical education began growing up outside Macon, Ga. His parents are lawyers, but his mother went to Juilliard. When he goes home, political arguments are often avoided by making music together. I make them do a lot of Brandi Carlile, and my sister loves to sing the Avett Brothers. I played everything as a kid, says Francisco, 43. That included piano, trumpet, trombone, tuba, bassoon, and banjo. I didnt really find an instrument that felt correct until I started playing guitar, at 28. After college at the University of Georgia, he moved briefly to New York City, where he was working at a Broadway theater when the planes struck on Sept. 11, 2001. He moved to Chicago and stayed for 13 years, acting in productions put on by the LGBTQ theater company About Face. His first taste of teaching came from a friend who taught kids at the Old Town School of Folk Music. I realized I wanted to do it too, and, within a year of picking up the guitar, he was teaching music to children on the autism spectrum. I loved it, he said. When you teach, its not about you. Its about the people that youre lifting up. I love teaching people to sing because we all have a unique voice. Nobody has your voice. Its exciting to relay to kids that they dont need to sound like anybody else. Francisco wound up moving to Philadelphia because I was dating somebody and he got a show in New York. I asked him if he wanted me to move with him, and he said, No, I want you to figure out what you want to do next. That was tough to hear, but also the greatest gift he could have given me. He had friends in Philly, and in 2015 he launched Mister Johns in the rented dance studio where Phan, Hayden, and Levity were among his first families. Within a year, Mister Johns was open for business on Ninth Street in the Italian Market, where it has been growing steadily since. Francisco now employs 20 music teachers, and 500 kids are enrolled in early childhood classes, with 200 more older students and adults. Business is concentrated in South Philly, but there are classes in Wayne, Haddonfield, Margate, Media, Wilmington, and elsewhere around the region. Casie Girvin leads the voice program as well as adult choir and cabaret classes. She auditioned for the job at an outdoor open mic on Ninth Street in early 2021, and sang Hoagy Carmichaels The Nearness of You. Francisco hired her on the spot. Girvin, who is also the assistant director of Arden Theatre Companys The Lehman Trilogy, has a wide range of students. The youngest in my kids choir is 4 and the oldest in my adult choir is in their late 70s, she says. In theater, sometimes we call it a survival job. But honestly, at Johns ... its kind of an informal artists collective. He fosters a lot of creativity. Her 30-person adult choir will take to the main studio on Sunday afternoon for a Valentines Day Love is Love is Love event. Its open to the public, and if the weather is good the windows will be flung open and the sound will spill onto the street. Another forthcoming event is a TransJam on March 8, an open mic designed to provide a safe space to make music for trans persons and their allies. John is ... like Willy Wonka if [Wonka] was the mayor of a music school. Hes quite a wonder of a person, Girvin says. Francisco has ambitions to take Mister Johns to even more cities but this year is all about sustainability and getting the new studio building fully up to speed. There is a garage band room still to be completed, and work being done so Francisco himself can live on the third floor of his music clubhouse. What Id like to be is the musical Mr. Rogers, he says. Hes the standard. Its about multigenerational belonging. When you walk through the door, you should feel like you are walking into your own home. Michelle Nelson from the Mama-Tee Community Fridge Project stocks the refrigerator at the opening of the Mama-Tee Community Fridge at St. Christophers Hospital for Children. Read more If it takes a village to feed a child, how much effort does it take to feed the village? Thats what organizers of the citys community fridges figure out every day as they provide food for hundreds of families. During the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, rates of food insecurity increased significantly in the United States as access to fresh, unprocessed food sharply declined, a 2022 study in the National Library of Medicine found. In response, community organizers across the country initiated the setup of independent, neighborhood-managed refrigerators filled with fresh food, operating entirely on volunteer labor. At the height from 2020 to 2022, there were more than 30 throughout Philadelphia, but the exact number can be hard to track as many dont have a digital footprint and operate among neighbors. Though not a complete solution to food insecurity, these community fridges offer fresh food to those who might not have regular access to (or cannot afford) traditional grocers. The fridges also allow people to remain anonymous and access food at their leisure (like shopping at a store) vs. filling out paperwork or needing to stand in line at food distribution sites, said Gavin Perez-Canto, the community food resource coordinator for the Greater Philadelphia Coalition Against Hunger. Most importantly you can choose whatever you want to eat, Perez-Canto said, noting that fridges can remain open 24 / 7 without the need for a volunteer to be always on-site. I think community fridges can fill in some of the gaps that food pantries arent able to. There are dozens of organizations distributing fresh food to families in need, including giants like Philabundance and Share Food Program. However, community fridges extend beyond merely providing food; they also offer resource sharing; educational outreach on food, jobs, and housing; and, crucially, the strengthening of community bonds. The operation of these fridges relies heavily on the efforts of dozens of volunteers. Running a community fridge is far from easy, a reality that many may not fully appreciate. Michelle Nelson, a doctor of educational psychology and founder of the Mama-Tee Community Fridge Project the largest network of its kind in the city having served nearly 200,000 residents to date notes the challenges faced by such initiatives. These obstacles can come in the form of a high cost of operation, where some spend upward of $20,000 per year to keep fridges stocked. Additionally, the initiatives depend heavily on the availability of volunteers to collect donations and stock the fridges during their spare time. Finally, and most importantly, sourcing enough fresh, quality food can prove difficult. Unfortunately, weve seen some community fridge groups in Philly launch, but then you dont see them again, Nelson said. There are really only a few organizations that can keep going and I think a lot of it has to do with the process. You need to really educate yourself on what type of practices work, you need to have great partnerships, and you need to constantly engage in opportunities to help spread the word so that the public knows that you exist and that you need help and support our organization doesnt take a break. Since the emergence of community fridges in Philadelphia, many have faced challenges, including the need to relocate or partner with other organizations for survival. Perez-Canto, who provides support and other resources to local community fridges, says many of these volunteer organizers had to get creative. During the peak of COVID-19, there was a lot of focus on food insecurity a lot of money and resources were floating around, Perez-Canto said. A lot of that has dried up. Food pantries and refrigerators are having to find creative ways of building relationships with grocery stores, connecting with food rescue programs, and purchasing food, oftentimes out of their own pocket. Thats when volunteers like Victoria Jayne and Benji Aaron, who work with South Philadelphia Community Fridge, look toward external grant-funding or collaborating with restaurants like Chipotle, where 10% of each meal bought on a specific day benefits their fridge programs. We get food two different ways: we buy it or its donated. A Chipotle fundraiser is a fun, cute way to fundraise to buy fresh food for the fridges, Jayne said. Weve also expanded to applying for grants, and have received funding from the Phillies and the Patricia Kind Family Foundation. Organizers of Germantown Community Fridge have developed an unwavering loyal and vast network of coffee shops like High Point Cafe, bakeries like Merzbachers and Crust Vegan Bakery, and nonprofits like Philly Food Rescue and Double Trellis, delivering and preparing food for the Germantown fridges every single week. But thats barely scratching the surface. Without these community bonds, especially communication between volunteers, its unclear if a fridge can survive on volunteer help alone, said Susan Bloch, an organizer in Germantown. Our growth over the years manifests in a couple of ways, one is just an ever-increasing network of donors and the other is an ever-increasing network of volunteers. And that is exponential. It just seems like there are always new people who want to help, she said. Some fridges that get started cant sustain because the upkeep is so intensive, it takes a village. Bloch, who is now retired, said that many members of Germantowns Community Fridge are checking their emails and the groups communication app, Geneva, constantly throughout the workday, fielding donation drop-offs and connecting with new partners around the clock to keep things moving. Where to find community fridges in Philadelphia In Philadelphia, there are more than two dozen community fridges actively serving neighborhoods, but there can be many more independently run fridges without a digital presence out there that we couldnt find. Know of any more community fridges? Email us at phillytips@inquirer.com. Heres a list of active community fridges in Philadelphia. 1149 S. Ninth St. (South Philly) 1940 Liacouras Walk (Temple University) 20 W. Armat St. 19 E. High St. LAVA Space: 4134 Lancaster Ave. Vault + Vine: 3507 Midvale Ave. Blackwell Library: 125 S. 52nd St. (52nd and Sansom Streets) Unity Java: 5312 Ridge Ave. (Manayunk) Since Independence Blue Cross announced its new hybrid work policy, employees have been speaking out about their complaints. The company told roughly 3,000 employees last week that theyll be required to work in the office every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday for a full day, beginning in March for managers and supervisors and April for everyone else. It marked the end of a model called hybrid of choice which allowed most staff to work remotely as much as they wanted to. Employees, including some in senior positions, said they had been under the impression that the hybrid of choice model was permanent. They said that leadership has been inflexible about the return plans and that they feel theyve been misled and lied to by top management. We recognize that our new hybrid model will be an adjustment, said executive vice president Crystal E. Ashby, who leads IBXs human resources, diversity, and communications functions. This decision was made only after careful consideration, taking into account how best to achieve our business goals while having a schedule that still provides flexibility for our associates and maintains a strong in-person presence in our facilities. Advertisement READ MORE: Independence Blue Cross changes its work-from-home policy, the latest big Philly employer to require more in-office days The Inquirer heard from IBX employees from different departments and seniority levels who explained their concerns about the new hybrid policy. They said company communications so far have not provided any hints of flexibility, and theyve seen a barrage of negative reaction from their colleagues. All of them asked that their names not be used so they could speak freely without concern for their job security. Since leadership posted an article announcing the new policy on the companys internal site, IWAY, employees have added over 200 comments, according to IBX workers who have seen them. The vast majority of IWAY comments about the policy and messaging were negative, employees said. Many commenters openly discussed their worries about finding additional childcare to cover commuting time and the challenges they will now face in finding caregiver coverage for family members who are elderly or have disabilities. Its not that they had been taking care of family on company time, workers explained, but the prior arrangement had allowed them to be present at home for older children and family members who just need an adult around. For some with younger children, theyve built childcare arrangements that cover the work day, but not a long commute in the morning and evening. Employees also shared concerns about their own mental health on IWAY, describing how remote work flexibility has reduced their stress and allowed them to attend to personal needs like medical appointments without compromising productivity at work. Ashby said leaders have been reviewing comments on the internal post in order to provide any needed updates or responses as well as meeting with associates about their concerns. We acknowledge that associates may need flexibility to handle business needs or personal matters during the preferred in-person workdays, just as they have in the past, Ashby said. Meanwhile, people describing themselves as IBX employees have taken to Reddit and Glassdoor to complain about the new in-office requirement and how it caught people by surprise. People [who] built their lives around the promise of the hybrid of choice model now have the rug pulled out from under them, one Glassdoor review said. Even senior employees were blindsided by the change. One director-level employee, who has worked for IBX for well over a decade, said there had been some rumors building about a change in the hybrid policy, but nobody expected it would be three full days a week of mandatory in-office attendance. That hit us all like a ton of bricks, they said. They lied, the director said. Whats happening is dishonest. No longer at their discretion Independence announced the hybrid of choice model officially in April 2022. This provides most of our associates with the flexibility to choose the schedule that works for them, including remaining remote, coming into the office every day, or coming into the office on days of their choosing, at their discretion, the email announcement said, according to a screenshot provided to The Inquirer. At the time, other large employers were touting similarly bespoke work arrangements. Multiple employees said IBX has hired people in the past two or three years using the hybrid of choice model as a draw. The policy required that employees live in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, or Delaware. I know a few people who were hired in the past two or three years. They were told that they were hired for a remote position, one manager said. They were literally lied to or misled. Some smaller groups of employees were asked a few months ago to come back on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, workers said, and felt similarly blindsided. Nobody was told that the requirement could become companywide, employees said. An FAQ document distributed to staff last week added to employees concerns. It said you should plan to work the full day on-site and clarified that we do not support an alternate schedule of a different three days in-office. It also instructed that if you are not feeling well, you should use your PTO, while adding that people who are sick but feel well enough to work from home should discuss that with their manager. The IBX director said theyre concerned about losing people on their team who will seek out new jobs. But the director is also starting to put out feelers for a new job and has already found listings of better-paying positions requiring less than three in-office days. Its morally wrong to tell people that this is your workplace model, and then just change it with [insufficient] notice, no accounting for the fact that this is going to be really hard for most people, the IBX director said. As a leader, Im being forced to do this to my own people, and I dont want to. It violates my convictions. Dreading a return to the old way Other employees, even those who worked at IBX pre-pandemic, said they feel they have no choice but to look for another job now. An associate-level employee who has been with IBX more than five years said her family members currently split care for her young child during work hours but wont be able to cover the additional hours needed for the new commute three days a week. Paying for childcare and commuting will essentially be a 50% pay-cut for her, she said and thats if she can find a day care with openings. So far, every childcare facility shes found has a wait-list well past April, when her in-office requirement begins. Even before I got pregnant, [IBX] communicated that we would be staying at a hybrid of choice model. And my family offered to help with childcare, the associate said. I absolutely would have gotten on a wait-list the moment I was pregnant if the company had indicated there may be a policy change requiring office time. The manager who has been with IBX for about 10 years said they have more caregiver responsibilities now than pre-pandemic, and they know of several colleagues in similar situations with sick or elderly family members. The lack of flexibility communicated to employees in the new policy seems to contradict Independences own consumer-facing guidance about care for the caregiver, the manager said. A different manager, who has been with IBX for more than a decade, said they were devastated and felt betrayed when they learned about the new policy. I never realized how burned out I was in the old way of commuting to the office, the manager said. Were a health and wellness company, and theyre forcing us into something that makes us unwell. Within the framework of the "Safe Internet" project by Azerbaijan's leading mobile operator, Azercell, educational lectures are conducted for both adolescents and adults in regional areas. This time, students and their parents in Quba and Lankaran have received information about online threats and dangers, as well as ways to combat them. Participants of the courses conducted based on the program of the certified international security school familiarize themselves with the following topics: Examination of virtual acquaintances; Use and protection of personal information on social networks; Refraining from participating in competitions that require entering personal information; Deceptive tactics of scammers and criminals on the network; Reporting incidents of trolling, cyberbullying, or inappropriate online behavior to whom and where. The lessons are conducted by professional trainers from "GID CSR Consulting". The "Safe Internet" project envisions the participation of more than 300 students and over 100 parents. It should be noted that Azercell has been implementing educational projects on internet safety continuously since 2016. During these years, more than 1500 internet users of various ages have benefited from these projects. JERUSALEM Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday said he has ordered the military to prepare a plan to evacuate civilians from Rafah ahead of an expected Israeli invasion of the densely populated southern Gaza city. The announcement came after heavy international criticism, including from the U.S., of Israeli intentions to move ground forces into the city that borders Egypt. Rafah had a prewar population of roughly 280,000, and according to the United Nations is now home to some 1.4 million additional people living with relatives, in shelters or in sprawling tent camps after fleeing fighting elsewhere in Gaza. Israel says that Rafah is the last remaining Hamas stronghold in Gaza after more than four months of war. It is impossible to achieve the goal of the war of eliminating Hamas by leaving four Hamas battalions in Rafah, Netanyahus office said. On the contrary, it is clear that intense activity in Rafah requires that civilians evacuate the areas of combat. Advertisement It said he had ordered the military and security officials to come up with a combined plan that includes both a mass evacuation of civilians and the destruction of Hamas forces in the town. Israel declared war after several thousand Hamas militants burst across the border into southern Israel on Oct. 7, killing 1,200 people and taking 250 others hostage. An Israeli air and ground offensive has killed roughly 28,000 Palestinians, most of them women and minors, according to local health officials. Roughly 80% of Gazas 2.3 million people have been displaced, and the territory has plunged into a humanitarian crisis with shortages of food and medical services. Netanyahu has largely rebuffed international criticism of the civilian death toll, saying that Hamas is responsible for endangering civilians by operating and hiding in residential areas. But that criticism has grown in recent days as Netanyahu and other leaders vow to move into Rafah. U.S. President Joe Biden said Thursday that Israels conduct in the war is over the top, the harshest U.S. criticism yet of its close ally. The State Department said an invasion of Rafah in the current circumstances would be a disaster. The operation will be a challenge on many levels. It remains unclear where civilians can go. The Israeli offensive has caused widespread destruction, especially in northern Gaza, and hundreds of thousands of people do not have homes to return to. In addition, Egypt has warned that any movement of Palestinians across the border into Egypt would threaten the four-decade-old peace treaty between Israel and Egypt. The border crossing between Gaza and Egypt, which is mostly closed, serves as the main entry point for humanitarian aid. Israel already has begun to strike Rafah from the air. Airstrikes overnight and into Friday hit two residential buildings in Rafah, while two other sites were bombed in central Gaza, including one that damaged a kindergarten-turned-shelter for displaced Palestinians. Twenty-two people were killed, according to AP journalists who saw the bodies arriving at hospitals. Growing friction Comments from top U.S. officials about Rafah have signaled growing friction with Netanyahu after a visit to the region by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Blinken, who has been working with Egypt and Qatar on trying to mediate a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, left the region Thursday without an agreement. But he said he believed it was still possible to strike a deal that would include an extended pause in fighting in exchange for the release of many of the more than 100 hostages held by Hamas. Netanyahu appeared to snub Blinken, saying he will settle for nothing short of total victory. The Israeli leader has said the war seeks to destroy Hamas military and governing capabilities and return all hostages home. With Blinken still in town, Netanyahu said achieving those goals would require an operation in Rafah. Vedant Patel, a State Department spokesman, said Thursday that going ahead with such an offensive with no planning and little thought in an area where there is sheltering of a million people would be a disaster. John Kirby, the White Houses national security spokesman, said an Israel ground offensive in Rafah is not something we would support. Aid agency officials have also sounded warnings over the prospect of a Rafah offensive. We need Gazas last remaining hospitals, shelters, markets and water systems to stay functional, said Catherine Russell, head of the U.N. childrens agency UNICEF. Without them, hunger and disease will skyrocket, taking more child lives. With the war now in its fifth month, Israeli ground forces are still focusing on the city of Khan Younis, just north of Rafah, but Netanyahu has repeatedly said Rafah will be next, creating panic among hundreds of thousands of displaced people. Airstrikes overnight Shortly after midnight Friday, a residential building was struck near Rafahs Kuwaiti Hospital, killing five people from the al-Sayed family, including three children and a woman. A second Rafah strike killed three more people. Another overnight strike, in the central town of Deir al-Balah, claimed nine lives. Also in central Gaza, a strike hit near a kindergarten-turned-shelter, damaging the building. It killed five and wounded several more people. Witnesses said shelter residents were asleep at the time. A woman, carrying a small girl in her arms, shouted as she arrived at the local Al Aqsa Martyrs Hospital: What can we do? This is the work of the coward Zionist enemy that chooses innocent civilians. This girl is firing rockets at the Jews? May God help us. Some of the wounded children were treated while lying on the floor. Working for a cease-fire Israels 4-month-old air and ground offensive among the most destructive in recent history has killed 27,947 Palestinians and wounded more than 67,000, local health officials said Friday. The war has driven most people from their homes and pushed a quarter of the population toward starvation, according to the U.N. Biden has said said he continues to work tirelessly to press Israel and Hamas to agree on an extended pause in fighting. Netanyahu has rejected Hamas demands for a hostage deal, which includes an end to the war and the release of hundreds of veteran Palestinian prisoners serving long sentences in Israel for deadly attacks carried out as part of the long-running conflict. Netanyahu dismissed Hamas demands as delusional, even as Blinken said he believes continued negotiations, through mediators Egypt and Qatar, are possible. Israels war goals appear increasingly elusive, as Hamas reemerges in parts of northern Gaza, which was the first target of the offensive and has seen widespread destruction. Israel has only rescued one hostage, while Hamas says several have been killed in airstrikes or failed rescue missions. Show Your Love for Chinatown is a nine-day event promoting the businesses and history of Chinatown. Pictured is a celebration at the 28th annual Mid-Autumn Festival in Philadelphias Chinatown on Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023. Read more For the past year and a half, many Chinatown community members have been fighting the proposed Sixers arena with concerns that the $1.55 billion project would result in the displacement and erasure of their historic neighborhood. During that time, people across the city have asked how they can support Chinatown and now, Chinatown has an answer: Show your love. Starting Feb. 16, more than 50 Chinatown businesses will be participating in a nine-day event to promote the neighborhood. Inspired by city- and community-wide restaurant weeks, Show Your Love for Chinatown will be an opportunity to not only explore Chinatowns restaurants, hair salons, and other small businesses, but also to learn more about the neighborhoods history and the culture that lives within its borders. We want to use it as an opportunity to be more present to appreciate the space, said Wei Chen, civic engagement director with Asian Americans United, one of the community organizations that put together Show Your Love for Chinatown. We want people to be part of this community. Wei Chen Of course, organizers hope that the event will help promote Chinatowns businesses, particularly because of the financial losses they suffered during the pandemic. But Show Your Love for Chinatown is about more than that. Its a chance for people to build deeper relationships with the community here, Chen said. Chinatown is not just a business area. This is also a community, and we want people to be part of this community. Advertisement Participating businesses may offer special prices on meals or items they sell, and participating businesses will also enter people into a raffle with prizes such as a private skincare party, fitness classes, or free meals. READ MORE: Where to celebrate the Chinese New Year in Chinatown Show Your Love for Chinatown will also feature various events for patrons to learn about the culture and history of the neighborhood, such as walking and food tours or meeting community organizers. Xu Lin, owner of the restaurant Bubble Fish, will be hosting a Chinese tea ceremony, serving black, green and oolong teas while talking to guests about the history of tea in China. I want people to understand why Chinatown is unique, Lin said, highlighting the neighborhoods origin in the 1800s as a response to racism and bigotry. The way the neighborhood has flourished and created opportunities for immigrants to financially sustain themselves over the centuries is a testament to the strength of the community, Lin said, and thats something he wants both non-Asians and Asians to remember. I want people to understand why Chinatown is unique. Xu Lin I want [my kids] to look at Chinatown and feel like theyre not alone, Lin said. There is a history of our people fighting for a better life, for a just city. Show Your Love for Chinatown will take place from Feb. 16 to Feb. 25. Learn more about it and stay up-to-date with scheduled events here. File photo of Paines Park near the Art Museum of Philadelphia, where authorities said Rodney Watkins met some of the children he abused. Read more A 55-year-old Philadelphia man has been convicted of sexually abusing six children who met him through his traveling youth skateboarding team known as Powerfulnailya, District Attorney Larry Krasner announced Thursday. Rodney Watkins on Wednesday pleaded no contest to charges involving the six victims. Charges involving a seventh victim were withdrawn because the statute of limitations had expired. His sentencing is scheduled for May 3. Watkins was arrested and charged in 2020 after two adults contacted the Philadelphia Police Departments Special Victims Unit to report what happened to them as children in 2011 and 2012. After his arrest, five more adults came forward to report that they allegedly had been sexually abused by Watkins, Krasner said. Watkins is now convicted of three counts of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse of a child, one count of aggravated indecent assault of a person less than 14 years of age, three counts of corruption of minors, and two counts of unlawful contact with minors. Court records show Watkins was represented by the Defender Association of Philadelphia. A spokesperson for the association could not be reached for comment. I want to thank Philadelphia Police SVU detectives and my offices Family Violence and Sexual Assault Unit for seeking accountability for survivors, sometimes more than a decade after they were victimized as children, Krasner said in a statement, crediting them and prosecutors on the case with sparing survivors who came forward what would likely have been a retraumatizing trial experience. Barbara Rahke at Old Zion Lutheran Church on North Broad Street in Philadelphia in 2018 where a roofer who was not given a harness suffered a fatal fall in 2013. Rahke, a former labor organizer who ran Philadelphia's worker safety organization, died on Feb. 1. Read more In the spring of 1979, a 30-year-old Boston University secretary led her coworkers 850 of them out on strike. The secretaries and librarians, most of them women and some in high heels, blocked garbage trucks and marched alongside faculty, toting handmade signs. The university president yelled at them to get back to work, while off-duty police officers hired by the university grabbed at them. It had been nearly a year since the university had refused to recognize their union. The secretaries had put their trust in that 30-year-old, their leader a charismatic, pit bull of a woman from Indianapolis named Barbara Rahke. Ms. Rahke died in her Francisville home on Feb. 1 from coronary artery disease, her stepdaughter Jennifer Kurz said. She was 75. Advertisement The successful Boston University campaign was the beginning of Ms. Rahkes career as a labor organizer who transformed the face of the United Autoworkers, one of the nations largest unions, empowered women through workers rights struggles, and mentored countless women organizers. Later, she revived the citys worker safety organization, the Philadelphia Area Project on Occupational Safety and Health, or PhilaPOSH, expanding its reach to some of the most vulnerable workers: immigrant construction workers not represented by a union. We deserve a decent wage and a rose The second child of four to a professor and a homemaker, Ms. Rahke was born to what she described as a very conservative, antiunion family. It was through her experiences in the workforce that she became politicized. At Boston University, she was discouraged to find that she could barely afford to take classes and finish her education because her secretarial pay was so low and tuition was high, even for employees. She took a second job waitressing. While working at the university, she realized how much shame she felt about her job, a role she and her coworkers often described as just a way station. She called it an aha moment. At that point, I felt like, I am an office worker, I work my tail off, I produce work for all kinds of professors, I am getting paid nothing, and if anything I should be screaming it from the rafters, she said in a 2006 interview for the Walter Reuther Archives at Wayne State University. She said she realized, We deserved respect and dignity, and a decent wage and a rose. READ MORE: Why Philadelphia hosted anti-deportation training for Latino workers Ms. Rahke left her secretary job to organize for the United Autoworkers, the union that eventually represented her BU colleagues. There, she crossed the country organizing workers from state employees in Indiana to Nissan in Tennessee. She did not fit the mold at the UAW in many ways: She didnt come from the auto industry, she was younger than most, and she was a woman. But her unique perspective transformed the UAW. Ben Perkins, UAWs now-retired director of organizing, credits Ms. Rahke with changing the face of the UAW when she masterminded a 1985 campaign to organize 25,000 state employees in Michigan the single largest local in the union at the time. Before then, the unions membership was largely male autoworkers. The Michigan state campaign expanded the UAWs membership to include tens of thousands of women office workers, which required a shift in philosophy and culture. The union subsequently changed its constitution to refer to he/she instead of he and instead of plant referred to workplace. We said, the UAW stands for Union of All Workers " Perkins said. A playbook of Barbara-isms Her colleagues remember her as a brilliant, creative organizer who could organize all manner of workers: white-collar, blue-collar, pink-collar. One of the difficulties of organizing women, Ms. Rahke said in the 1980s, was that they were trained to see themselves as servers, not doers. But she loved seeing women experience their own aha moments as they got involved with the union, said Judy Harden, who organized with Ms. Rahke at the UAW. When they began to see that they had power, Harden said, when they could make the university listen when it didnt want to. Ms. Rahke was a mentor and inspiration to a legion of organizers and labor leaders like Carolyn York, a former top official at the National Education Association, who said it was Ms. Rahke who inspired her to first get involved at a union drive of thousands of clerical, technical, and maintenance workers at Cornell in 1980. UAW organizer Lauren Farrell said she walks around with Barbara-isms all day: Never feel defeated on a campaign. Whatever the boss says, flip it back on them and make it work for you. She told me, Dont you dare let any of these men call you honey or baby, Farrell said. READ MORE: 'Worker deaths are not freak accidents': Advocates push prosecutors to go after bosses in worker death cases Ms. Rahke retired from the UAW in 2002 and moved to Francisville from South Jersey after she and her husband divorced. She stayed in the area to be near her stepchildren, whom she treated as her own, Kurz said. She then brought PhilaPOSH back to life, said a former board member, Kathy Black. As head of PhilaPOSH for 15 years, Ms. Rahke got its first federal grant, hired bilingual trainers to conduct safety trainings for immigrant workers, and developed a robust network of families of workers who had been killed on the job. Long after she retired from PhilaPOSH in 2019, she was still advising the organization, up until a few weeks before her death. She worried about everything and everybody else before herself, said Nicole Fuller, director of PhilaPOSH. She was just that type of person. Ms. Rahke is survived by three stepchildren, eleven grandchildren, three siblings, her partner and his daughter. Donations can be made to PhilaPOSH on the website or to PhilaPOSH, 3001 Walnut St., 5th Floor, Philadelphia, Pa. 19104. A memorial service will be announced at a later date. Gov. Josh Shapiro delivers his second budget address Tuesday in Harrisburg. He has embraced the phrase "get sh-- done," which we think we've heard before. Read more As Gov. Josh Shapiro works to sell the ambitious, $48.3 billion budget proposal he unveiled this week, Clout wanted to dig into his administrations mantra: Get S Done. Shapiro first officially used the motto last year as he celebrated reopening a collapsed portion of I-95 in 12 days. Since then, the Democratic governor has repeated it dozens of times, and even shortened it to a GSD Attitude. But Shapiro isnt the first person in Pennsylvania politics to make use of the phrase. Former State Sen. Vincent Fumo who was once thought of as the most powerful politician in Pennsylvania used a similar motto to exemplify his staffs ability to cut through red tape and bring home nearly $8 billion in state funds to Philadelphia, despite being in the minority party for most of his tenure. Advertisement He summed up his success with the line: We Get S Done. Fumos staffers wore shirts emblazoned with the motto similarly shortened to an acronym, just like Shapiros GSD Attitude. Until, of course, it was discovered that Fumo was wielding his power to snag yacht trips and other freebies that got him convicted on 137 federal corruption charges in 2009. Shapiro told Clout last month that he didnt know Fumo used the same phrase, and that he hadnt modeled it off of him. Really? I didnt know that, Shapiro said. But hes continued using it, including twice during his hour-and-a-half-long budget address (Though, he used the family-friendly line Get stuff done.) Fumo did not respond to a request for comment, but he told PhillyVoice in 2017: We always said, Get S Done, GSD. We had these shirts made up one time for the staff [that said] GSD and on the arm, over here, was BBLL. To get s done you have to have brains and balls. And youve got to understand loyalty and leverage, Fumo added at the time. Sounds a lot like a certain governor with his eye on the national stage. Fitzpatrick challenger: My campaign is alive and well Rumors of the death of Mark Houcks congressional campaign have been greatly exaggerated. Houck is still in the race for Pennsylvanias 1st District, he confirmed Tuesday, explaining how an FEC filing led to incorrect speculation on social media that hed suspended his GOP primary campaign. The anti-abortion activist challenging U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick said his campaign had suspended a committee, Houck for Congress, because the language didnt match his website and campaign materials as required. The committee named Mark Houck for Congress is still alive, as is his bid. Weve got more momentum than ever, Houck said. Houck also faced questions this week about the more than $400,000 he raised after being arrested outside of a Philly Planned Parenthood in 2021. During a Bucks County candidate forum Monday in Newtown, an attendee asked Houck about the money raised on GiveSendGo, a crowdfunding site favored by right-wing causes. In a video shared with Clout, Houck tells the woman, in a testy exchange, the money is now in a trust for his seven children. Houck told Clout the fund, set up in his wifes name, was always intended to support his family. He faced 11 years in prison and $350,000 in fines if convicted of intimidating workers. His legal fees were covered by the Thomas More Society, a conservative Catholic law firm. Last January, Houck was acquitted. It was there to help provided I would go off to prison or the government would continue to attack me, Houck said of the fund. And those funds have gone into a trust for the children should their father continue to be persecuted. I dont know what people expect. Do they expect me to donate to a cause? Houck, a first-time candidate, said he didnt list the trust on his financial disclosure, filed in December with the U.S. House, because its in the name of his wife and children. However, U.S. House ethics rules require candidates disclose their spouse and dependents financial interests, except in rare circumstances. Darrell Clarke enters his post-City Hall life Clout would like to propose a toast to Darrell L. Clarke, whose post-City Hall career was one of the only things both parties in Harrisburg could agree on this week. The erstwhile Philly City Council president and longtime Democrat was unanimously confirmed by the GOP-controlled state Senate on Thursday to serve for four years on the states Liquor Control Board, a three-member panel that regulates booze imports and sales. Shapiro nominated Clarke to the board, one of several thats often staffed by the states most well-connected politicos. The LCB is no small-time gig. There are about 600 state-run liquor stores, and more than 18 million cases of wine and spirits are shipped from the states distribution centers annually. Thats a lot of Fireball. In an interview late last year, Clarke alluded to the task ahead of him. He said the LCB thing is way bigger than I knew. I had no idea, he said. Its a three billion dollar department. Sure is. The state says Fine Wine & Good Spirits stores generated more than $3.1 billion in sales and taxes in the last fiscal year. Clarke, 71, will make out OK himself. The new job pays nearly $90,000 a year. Thats less than his $195,000 yearly pay as Council president but hes now receiving a city pension worth $11,900 monthly, so hes actually making more following his exit from City Hall. And the LCB only meets once or twice a month. Cheers to that. Clout provides often irreverent news and analysis about people, power, and politics. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Deputies of the Grand National Assembly of Turkiye visited the Azerbaijani office of the Association of Independent Industrialists and Entrepreneurs (MUSIAD), Trend reports. Deputies of the All-Union National Council met with the Chairman of the Board of "MUSIAD Azerbaijan" Rashad Jabirli and other members of the organization. Rashad Jabirli noted that the main activities of MUSIAD Azerbaijan are aimed at expanding trade relations and mutual investments between Azerbaijan and Turkiye. During the meeting, the issue of increasing the number of visits of investors from Nevsehir to Azerbaijan was discussed. It was noted that this will further strengthen cooperation between Turkiye and Azerbaijan and increase trade turnover. The Insurance Council of Australia (Insurance Council) thanks the Australian Government for the opportunity to provide a submission in response to the climate-related financial disclosure exposure draft legislation, said ICA CEO Andrew Hall in the submission letter. We appreciate the collaborative approach the government has taken to welcome submissions from the business community, civil society, government bodies, and other interested stakeholders. We recognise the draft legislation is an important next step for more consistent climate-related financial disclosures and welcome the opportunity to comment. How we take the existing stock and send very clear signals to the further development of these areas that they will not have access to a pool moving forward, said Feledy, it then comes down to the funding and theres various mechanisms and theres all kinds of perspectives and views. Subscription to paid content Gain access to all that Trend has to offer, as well as to premium, licensed content via subscription or direct purchase through a credit card. Among the immediate actions being taken is the increase in the Canada Border Services Agencys capacity. The federal government will also establish a means of better information sharing between local police and railway police to identify and find stolen cars before they get to ports. The Hanover and its employees have a history of supporting their community through their annual campaign. Were proud and appreciative of the impact theyve had over the many years, helping to provide vital services to so many individuals in need, United Way Worldwide CEO and president Angela F. Williams said. As we explore the Domo platform and all of its capabilities, Domos credit-based pricing model makes it easy for us to increase user and platform adoption, as well as enabling us to experiment with all of the solutions Domo has to offer. We can use every tool in the Swiss Army knife that is Domo without needing to have the conversations about purchasing additional features. The more we use Domo to the fullest extent, the more return we get on our investment, Falvey COO Jack Falvey said. A Connecticut judge has tossed a lawsuit by the estate of a woman who was killed in a crash while driving intoxicated following a mandatory wine tasting at the restaurant that employed her. The estate brought claims of common law negligence and wrongful death against the owners of the restaurant for their alleged negligence in serving Nicole Silva too much alcohol and not offering her transportation to her home. But Judge Elizabeth Stewart in the Superior Court in New Haven rejected Silvas claims, affirming that there is no common law cause of action for negligent service of alcohol to a person, and the Dram Shop Act only provides a cause of action to a third party who is injured by the person who was served alcohol, not to the intoxicated person herself. Silva was an employee of Consiglios Restaurant who participated in a mandatory wine tasting event there. The complaint alleged that the defendants knew that she was there and consuming alcohol, and they knew or should have known that she was served an excessive quantity of alcohol. Silva drove herself toward her home and on the way, she was involved in a head-on collision with another vehicle. She died from the injuries sustained in the collision. More than four hours after the wine tasting began, her blood alcohol level content was 197 mg/dI, where a person appears drunk and may have severe visual impairment. Judge Stewart cited an almost identical 1967 case (Nolan v. Morelli) in which the Connecticut Supreme Court held that neither the Dram Shop Act nor the common law of negligence provided a widow a wrongful death cause of action after a womans husband became intoxicated at the defendants establishments and died in a one-car accident. The Supreme Court recognized that the Dram Shop Act had modified the common law, but only to provide a cause of action to a third party, not the intoxicated person. Also, the judge noted, since a 2003 amendment to the Dram Shop Act, superior courts consistently have held that the intoxicated person has no cause of action in common law negligence or wrongful death based on negligence against purveyors of alcohol for injuries the intoxicated person causes to herself. The judge further found that there is no duty on behalf of a purveyor of alcohol to provide an intoxicated patron with transportation, citing another superior court ruling in 2009 (Welton v. Ferrara). Silvas estate attempted to distinguish her case by arguing she was an employee rather than a patron of the establishment. She claimed that this unique situation has not been adjudicated by any Connecticut court and is a question of fact for the jury to decide. But the judge rejected that argument. That is not the proper role for the jury. The question of whether the defendants here owed a duty to the plaintiffs decedent is a question of law for the court, not the jury, to decide, she wrote. It is possible, the judge continued, that there might be a public policy argument for extending the legal duty of care to this situation but Silvas estate offered no such analysis. Finally. the court said the estate was correct that the Workers Compensation Act categorically bars a plaintiff from recovering due to her consumption of alcohol, with no exception granted for the alcohol being consumed due to a mandatory work event. The statutes definition of arising out of and in the course of employment provides that in the case of an accidental injury, a disability or death due the use of alcohol or narcotic drugs shall not be construed to be a compensable injury. Therefore, while the Workers Compensation Act might not bar the plaintiff from bringing a common law claim against her employers, she cannot get around the law that there is no such common law claim. Topics Lawsuits Legislation Connecticut Maine Governor Janet Mills has nominated Robert L. Carey of East Boothbay, who has advised state regulators and lawmakers on health insurance issues for decades, to serve as Superintendent of the Maine Bureau of Insurance. Prior to establishing his own consulting practice for regulators and lawmakers in 2008, Carey served as the first director of planning and development for the Massachusetts Health Connector, widely considered to be the blueprint for the Affordable Care Act. Bob Carey brings decades of experience advising states, including Maine, on building strong insurance markets that provide quality coverage and save individuals and small businesses money on their premiums, said Mills. Careys confirmation is subject to approval by the Joint Standing Committee on Health Coverage, Insurance, and Financial Services, and confirmation by the Maine Senate. If confirmed, Carey will succeed Timothy Schott, a deputy superintendent since 2009 who has been serving as acting superintendent since the departure in April 2022 of Eric Cioppa. Cioppa served as superintendent for 11 years and was with the bureau for 33 years. When Cioppa retired, the administration said it would undertake a national search to identify candidates for the position. Carey. said that working with bureau staff, the Mills administration, legislators and stakeholders throughout Maine would be a privilege. Through his practice, Carey has advised more than a dozen states on their insurance markets and health insurance marketplaces. In 2021, Carey was a key contributor to Maines successful application for a State Innovation Waiver. The waiver allowed Maine to implement a series of changes to reduce the cost of health coverage. Carey has also worked with the Massachusetts Division of Insurance, conducting commercial rate reviews for the states individual and small group markets. He has conducted market exams, supported a special commission on dental insurance, and advised a special legislative commission. His private sector experience includes providing strategic advice to large physician practices and a start-up health insurance provider. Carey is a 1986 graduate of the University of Maine at Fort Kent and holds a Master of Science in Public Management and Policy from Carnegie Mellon University. Topics Maine British regulators need an ambitious growth mindset to implement post-Brexit financial sector reforms faster and stop business going elsewhere, an industry body said on Thursday. Britains Edinburgh Reforms proposed by finance minister Jeremy Hunt over a year ago aim to help London to remain a globally competitive financial center after being largely cut off from the European Union, which this week approved a law to force a shift in euro clearing from London to the bloc. New York is also attracting companies from Britain to list there. Industry has welcomed the Edinburgh Reforms. However, government policy cannot be implemented without an equally ambitious growth mindset from our regulators, Bruce Carnegie-Brown, chair of TheCityUKs leadership council, told a dinner attended by Hunt. This includes dealing with top hires approval applications faster, he said. Senior hires at banks and insurers must undergo fit and proper vetting by regulators. At Lloyds, we have the capacity and expertise to evaluate and approve a new underwriting syndicate within 30 days, but the external regulators require many months more before making a decision, causing businesses to set up outside the UK, said Carnegie-Brown, who also chairs the Lloyds of London insurance market. In senior management appointments, a US financial services firm hiring a new head of its UK operations perhaps one of the top ten roles in their organization can make a decision within weeks, yet regulatory requirements on senior managers could prevent them being approved for at least three months and often longer. The Bank of England and Financial Conduct Authority have a new secondary objective to consider the Citys global competitiveness and growth when writing rules. BoE Deputy Governor Sam Woods on Wednesday came under pressure from lawmakers to speed up the Edinburgh Reforms, but countered that regulators needed to stay in lockstep with related government actions to give industry the full package. We are going at a good pace, Woods said, with the backlog in top hire approvals now sorted, the Bank having dealt with 98% of applications within the three-month deadline in the last quarter of 2023. (Reporting by Huw Jones; editing by Emelia Sithole-Matarise) Topics Uk Brazil subsidized rural insurance for farmers who deforested protected areas, engaged in slavery-like labor or planted in indigenous lands, according to a report from a nonprofit group. An investigation by Reporter Brasil found that farmers benefited from a government-backed insurance program even after being sanctioned for environmental and labor violations. Most of the policies scrutinized were signed during the administration of former President Jair Bolsonaro, though violations persisted under his successor Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. The findings underscore the challenges of fighting deforestation in Brazil. Years of booming soybean and corn prices fueled a rapid expansion of farmland into new areas. Bolsonaro supported mining and farming activities in the jungle, causing a surge in the pace of slashing and burning in the Amazon region. From 2019 to the end of his four-year term, the annual deforestation rate jumped more than 50%, according to the National Institute for Space Research (Inpe). A global agriculture powerhouse, Brazil in the last decade has drawn increased attention of insurers worldwide, given the growth potential in the country where less than 8% of total area planted is covered by the government-backed rural insurance program. Among the companies cited by Reporter Brasil was a unit of Japans Tokio Marine Holdings Inc. In 2020, it provided policies to landowners in Mato Grosso, Brazils largest crop-producing state. About 70% of the property covered by the insurance was embargoed due to illegal deforestation in the Amazon. The nonprofit research group also found that a farmer who leased an area on indigenous land in the southern state of Parana contracted a policy with the Spanish company Mapfre SA in 2020 to insure 106 hectares (261 acres) of wheat. And in the central state of Minas Gerais two tomato farmers on the governments slavery-like-labor blacklist got rural insurance subsidized by Brazils Porto Seguro SA. The Brazilian government subsidizes tens of thousands of policies every year. Our investigation delves into just a few problematic examples, but surely a thorough combing of all contracts could reveal monitoring failures of much greater proportions, said the reports coordinator Andre Campos. Brazils Ministry of Agriculture audits 1% of all subsidized rural insurance to check the accuracy of the information contained in the policies, according to a document obtained by Reporter Brasil. The Ministry of Agriculture said in an email to Bloomberg that a new monitoring system is expected to be up and running by the beginning of the next crop season, in the second half of 2024. The platform will use geo-referenced points of the insured crops to assess whether an area has any non-compliance and sweep public databases for slavery-like labor listings; embargoes imposed by environmental institutes; and activities in indigenous lands, federal conservation units and archaeological heritage areas. This analysis will take place for all policies subsidized by the Program. The Ministry will also make it possible for qualified insurers to carry out this same consultation beforehand, the ministry said in the email. Global Companies Spains Mapfre SA and Brazils Porto Seguro SA were among eight insurers cited in the investigation, which analyzed cases of producers who received public aid between 2019 and 2023. Through a program known as PSR, the growers contracted polices partly paid by the Brazilian government to insure them against losses caused by hail, drought or prolonged rain. Insurers Brasilseg, Essor and Allianz SA were also included in the investigation. Together, the companies cited in the report accounted for 76% of insurance policies taken out under the PSR in 2022, according to the findings. In response to the investigation, Tokio Marine, Allianz and Porto Seguro said they continue to make improvements to processes to ensure compliance. Tokio Marine added that the insurance contracts mentioned in the report are no longer in force. Mapfre said it has done a complete review of all active rural policies in its portfolio. Brasilseg said that at the time it underwrote the policies, it complied with all legislation and rules regarding insurance. Essor did not respond to a request for comment. Photograph: A lumber factory on the banks of the Madeira river near Manicore, Brazil. Photo credit: Mauro Pimentel/AFP/Getty Images Copyright 2024 Bloomberg. Topics Agribusiness Fosun International Ltd. has revived a plan to sell Hong Kong-based Peak Reinsurance Co. after failing on a previous attempt, according to people familiar with the matter. BNP Paribas SA is helping the Chinese conglomerate find a buyer for its majority stake in the business, the people said, asking not to be identified because the matter is private. Fosun is potentially seeking a valuation of about $1 billion for the company known as Peak Re, the people said. A formal sale process is under way and marketing materials have been sent to prospective bidders, including private equity firms and Asia-based financial services companies, the people said. Considerations are preliminary, no final decisions have been made and Fosun could still decide against a sale, they said. Representatives for Fosun didnt respond to requests for comment. BNP didnt have an immediate comment. Fosun had previously considered options including a sale of Peak Re as part of its efforts to pay down debt, Bloomberg News reported in 2022. Fosun shares rose 2.6% Thursday to close at HK$4.43 in Hong Kong. Founded in 2012, Peak Re focuses on insurance including property and casualty, and life and health, its website shows. It has more than 580 clients across 60 markets in Asia Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the Americas. US-based Prudential Financial Inc. owns about a 13% stake in the reinsurer, while Fosun holds the rest, according to Peak Res latest annual report. Fosun also is considering the sale of its minority stake in Belgiums largest insurer, Ageas NV, Bloomberg News reported this week, while the company sold a chunk of Banco Comercial Portugues last month. Fosuns potential sale of the Peak Re stake could indicate there may also be debt-repayment pressure on top of its capital-market debt such as bank loans, Andrew Chan, an analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence, wrote in a note Thursday. Fosun has been looking to sell many assets recently, such as Ageas and BCP, which should generate sufficient proceeds to cover its outstanding public debt. Photograph: Office buildings in the Central district in Hong Kong, China, on Monday, Nov. 20, 2023. Photo credit: Paul Yeung/Bloomberg Copyright 2024 Bloomberg. This edition of International People Moves details appointments at Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance (Europe) and Gallagher Re. A summary of these new hires follows here. Mitsui Sumitomo (Europe) Appoints Rodden as Interim CEO, Rebrands as MSIG UK Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Co. (Europe) Ltd. (MSI EU), the UK subsidiary of Japanese insurer Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance (MSI), has appointed Martyn Rodden as interim chief executive officer, effective immediately. He succeeds Robin Adam who has left the company to pursue other opportunities. The appointment is subject to regulatory approval. In the same announcement, MSI EU confirmed it is changing its trading name to MSIG UK. This change ensures alignment with many of the other MSI companies in the global carriers international network and comes after MSI recently celebrated its centenary in the UK insurance sector, the company said. Rodden, previously director of Strategy & Transformation at sister company MS Amlin Underwriting Ltd. (MS AUL), will report to Hironori Morimoto, MSIs managing executive officer in the UK, . Rodden brings more than two decades of specialty London market experience to the role, including over ten years in executive leadership. As a member of the Executive Committee at MS AUL, he played a vital role in developing and implementing a change in strategy that has seen the firms fortunes reverse over recent years. This included leading the delivery of the successful Reinsurance To Close deal in 2023, one of the largest deals of its type in Lloyds history. Prior to his new role at MSI EU, Rodden spent eight years at MS Amlin, in increasingly senior roles. With a career spanning many significant London Market brands, he was previously Chief Risk Officer at Faraday Underwriting, as well as Head of Risk at Chaucers syndicate business. I am delighted to announce Martyns appointment as Interim CEO of the newly rebranded MSIG UK. Martyn has shown fantastic commitment and leadership at MS Amlin, to help return the business to profitability and become a 2bn syndicate, once again, commented Morimoto. Martyns appointment is part of a new phase for MSI in the UK, reshaping a business that has predominantly focused on supporting Japanese clients, as part of MSIs ambitious international growth plans. The MSI network of companies provides Martyn and the team with significant opportunities to grow the business, including working with sister firms such as MS Amlin, to help develop and deliver new solutions for clients, as well as building our existing UK portfolio. *** Gallagher Re Promotes Dowlen to Managing Director EMEA Hamish Dowlen has been appointed managing director of Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) at Gallagher Re, effective June 1, 2024. At the same time, Ditte Deschars will become chairperson role for EMEA. This will be in addition to her leadership of the Nordic region. For the past five years, Dowlen has been leading the DACH business (in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland), recently adding CEE & Holland to his management responsibilities. Not only is he an exceptional leader and people manager, he also brings deep experience as a successful producer with a tremendous work ethic, said outgoing CEO, International, Tony Melia. Ditte is a passionate regional leader, senior Client Advocate and brings a wealth of experience with her work on the carrier management side, he added. I wish them both every success in their new roles. These appointments come on the heels of Gallagher Res recent announcement that Dirk Spenner has been appointed to the role of CEO, International, at Gallagher Re, taking over from Tony Melia, who is retiring after a career of over 40 years. Spenners new role is effective June 1, 2024. Topics Talent Europe A.J. Gallagher MILWAUKEE (AP) The daughter of a Wisconsin inmate who killed himself in solitary confinement has filed a federal lawsuit against state prison officials, alleging they failed to provide adequate mental health care and medications. Dean Hoffmann was found dead in his cell at Waupun Correctional Institution in June on the ninth day of a stint in solitary confinement. He is one of at least three Waupun inmates who died in 2023. The other two deaths remain under investigation. Hoffmanns daughter, Megan Hoffmann Kolb, filed the lawsuit in Milwaukee on Tuesday seeking unspecified damages. Hoffmann was sentenced to more than 20 years in prison in February 2023 for kidnapping a woman in 2018. His daughter alleges in the lawsuit that he was suffering from severe mental illness when he entered Waupun in April. He went weeks without seeing any mental health care providers due to a lockdown Warden Randall Hepp implemented in March and received medication only sporadically. Guards placed Hoffmann in solitary confinement on June 20 after he refused to return to his cell, saying his cellmate had threatened him. He was found dead in solitary on June 29. The lawsuit alleges no one performed a psychological check on him while he was in solitary, a guard told him he didnt care if he killed himself and guards didnt give him his medication the morning he killed himself. State Department of Corrections spokesperson Beth Hardtke said the agency doesnt comment on pending litigation as a matter of policy. A shortage of guards has forced several Wisconsin prisons, including institutions in Waupun, Green Bay and Stanley, to institute lockdowns last year. Some movement restrictions have since eased but the lockdowns are still ongoing. A group of Waupun inmates filed a class-action federal lawsuit in Milwaukee in October alleging lockdown conditions amount to cruel and unusual punishment. Megan Hoffmann Kolbs attorney, Lonnie Story, is representing the inmates in that case as well. Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Lawsuits Wisconsin BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. The project to expand the Baku-Alat-Gazakh highway, covering 130 km from Ganja to the Georgian border, a key segment of the historic Great Silk Road, is coming to a successful completion, said the State Agency of Azerbaijan Automobile Roads (SAAAR), Trend reports. As per the project specifications, the roadbed will have a total width of 27.5 meters. The road surface will feature 4-6 lanes, each spanning 3.75 meters in width. "The construction of the Ganja-Gazakh-Georgian border highway section is divided into three lots. The works on the first and second lots, along with a portion of the third lot, have been finished. On August 7, 2023, President Ilham Aliyev participated in the inauguration of the 102-kilometer-long Ganja-Gazakhbeyli section. The reconstruction of this section of the technical class 1b road, in line with the "State Program of socio-economic development of the regions of the Republic of Azerbaijan in 2019-2023," involved the completion of 67 underpasses, 19 interchanges, and 17 bridges (36 units). At present, construction is ongoing on the 28-kilometer stretch of the Gazakhbeyli-Georgian border highway, specifically on the 102.2-130.15 km section of the project. Currently, activities include laying a new ground layer, constructing rock and granular bases, and building water pipes, underpasses, and bridges. Simultaneously, efforts are being made to establish crushed stone foundations and lay asphalt. Along the stretch from 102 km to 130.150 km, construction involves 4 road interchanges and overpasses, 2 river bridges, 14 underpasses, 13 rectangular water crossings, and 68 circular drainage pipes. Additionally, 28 bus stops are being installed as per the project requirements. Progress on artificial structures stands at 74 percent completion, while overall construction works have reached 90 percent. Construction on the highway proceeds without disrupting citizens' travel, adhering to "Construction rules and regulations" and under the supervision of SAAAR management, ensuring smooth and unhindered movement. The key Baku-Gazakh-Georgia border highway, integral to an international transport corridor traversing Azerbaijan, significantly fosters relations with Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, contributing to both domestic and regional development. Upon full project realization, this road, a segment of the historic Great Silk Road traversing Azerbaijan from East to West and vice versa, will significantly bolster international and domestic road transportation between Europe and Asia," the State Agency of Azerbaijan Automobile Roads said. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Last June, a rusting tanker named Sincere 02 picked up oil at an Iranian port and steamed across the Persian Gulf on its way to the United Arab Emirates. US sanctions forbid Western companies from knowingly doing business with Iran. But for the next seven months, long after an advocacy group publicized Sincere 02s voyage, the ship continued to carry proof of insurance from a surprising place: New York City. Thats the home of American Club, the smallest of the 12 companies that cover most of the worlds oceangoing ships against spills and accidents, and the only one based in the US. American Club provides insurance for 21 vessels suspected of having moved Iranian oil, more than any of its peers, according to a Bloomberg News analysis of a list provided by the group, United Against Nuclear Iran (UANI). Thats 6% of the tankers American Club covers even after the company recently culled its client list. Since December, when the insurers name came up at a congressional hearing and Bloomberg began asking questions, American Club has dropped coverage for Sincere 02 and 18 other vessels accused by UANI of having carried Iranian oil. Many of them had been under suspicion for years but continued to ply the seas, and American Club continued to collect premiums. American Club says its compliance program is top-notch and that it would never knowingly insure a ship that violates sanctions. It says its investigating allegations against two of the 21 that still have coverage and is in the process of dropping three others. As for the rest, it couldnt substantiate the accusations or found that the ships current owners had no connection to past sanctioned activity. When we have enough evidence to suspect something is not right, said Daniel Tadros, the companys chief operating officer, we cancel. Tadros said the recent flurry of cancellations had nothing to do with media or government inquiries. Some were dropped because of long-running internal investigations, he said, and others because of routine reviews ahead of Feb. 20, when annual policies normally expire. Oil tankers need to show proof of liability insurance against spills and accidents to enter major ports. That makes insurers crucial gatekeepers for the worlds shipping industry. At a congressional hearing in December, Representative Zach Nunn, an Iowa Republican, pressed a US Treasury Department official about American Clubs outsize role in insuring ships suspected of carrying Iranian oil. What have you done to hold them accountable? Nunn asked. Treasury, which enforces sanctions, later sent Nunn a statement that his concerns were misplaced. It declined to comment to Bloomberg about American Club. One official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the department seeks to strike a balance between enforcing sanctions and ensuring that coverage is widely available. Treasury hasnt taken any public regulatory action against an insurer in years. US sanctions aim to discourage Irans nuclear program and its support for militia groups across the Middle East by starving the regime of oil revenue. Researchers at UANI, a New York-based nonprofit dedicated to backing these efforts, pore over ship-location data and satellite feeds to spot vessels carrying the countrys crude. When they suspect a sanctions violation, they notify insurers, ship registries and other service providers. Most of them are quick to confirm our findings and withdraw coverage, typically within 48 hours, said Claire Jungman, chief of staff of the group, which was founded by a former George W. Bush administration official. We provide all of the same information to American Club. Sometimes they do withdraw their coverage, and sometimes they do not. Shipowners often produce fake bills of lading and other documents to convince their insurers theyre not handling Iranian cargo, Jungman said. Sometimes, she said, American Club chooses to believe that, versus the satellite image provided to them. Anyone tracking Sincere 02 last June would have noticed something odd. All tankers are required to broadcast their location by radio to avoid collisions. From June 10 to June 14, according to Sincere 02s broadcasts, it was moving around and around in a suspiciously perfect circle. And, impossibly, its path repeatedly passed through an offshore Iraqi oil terminal a giant platform fixed in place in the sea. The 600-foot tanker would have collided with it. In reality, Sincere 02 wasnt anywhere near the Iraqi terminal, according to a satellite photo of the area taken on June 11. The vessel was reporting a false location, a common tactic for sanctions evaders and one the US has told insurers to look out for. The satellite photo showed a similar-looking ship about 60 miles away at an oil terminal in Iran. Not long after the picture was taken, analysts at UANI determined it was Sincere 02. In July, UANI notified the Kiribati Ship Registry, where Sincere 02 was flagged, as well as American Club. Kiribati, a tiny Pacific island, deregistered the ship within a day. American Club moved more slowly. In January, Tadros, a gregarious lawyer with cufflinks shaped like pink sailboats, invited Bloomberg reporters to visit the companys offices in Lower Manhattan to discuss the handling of Sincere 02 and other suspect ships. From a 31st-floor boardroom with sweeping views of New York Harbor, he clicked through a slide presentation as ferries and barges crisscrossed the waters below. Our compliance and our due diligence programs have been around longer than our competitors, Tadros said. Were considered one of the most stringent. American Club belongs to a 12-member consortium called the International Group, whose members provide protection and indemnity, or P&I, insurance to most of the worlds oceangoing ships. To comply with sanctions laws, International Group insurers put a clause in their policies invalidating coverage if a ship is found to be carrying illicit oil. But Treasury asks them to go further monitoring customers for possible violations, even if shippers try to hide what theyre up to. Tadros showed detailed chronologies of a number of ships that UANI said had carried Iranian oil. He said determining the truth is difficult and time-consuming, and that UANIs accusations are sometimes off base. Insurers communicate with customers through brokers; documentation is provided in different languages; and ship managers can take elaborate steps to conceal vessels true owners and activities. He said American Clubs four-person compliance department is stretched thin. In the case of Sincere 02, the chronology showed that the insurer didnt contact the ships representatives until more than a month after hearing from UANI. Through a broker, the representatives provided documents purporting to show the ship had loaded oil in Iraq, just as the ships transponder had reported. What about the implausible route Sincere 02 claimed to take, plowing through the side of an oil terminal? Tadros said the company wasnt aware of it, and even if it had been, it wouldnt have been enough to make the insurer doubt its customers story. Then in December, three months after getting Sincere 02s story, American Club asked a contact in Iraq to check it out. The word came back quickly, Tadros said: The Iraq visit was a lie. On Jan. 10, American Club started the process of canceling coverage for the vessel. Two days later Treasury announced it was imposing sanctions on Sincere 02, saying it was part of a network linked to Said al-Jamal, an Iran-based financier of the Houthi rebels in Yemen. Houthi rocket attacks in the Red Sea are now sowing chaos in the global shipping industry. The tankers legal owner is a Marshall Islands company with an address in a skyscraper in Dubai. No sign of its offices could be found during a recent visit there. Tadros said that al-Jamal was not on any paperwork American Club saw. We dont have the means, like the government does, to find out theres a Houthi guy behind an enterprise like this, he said. The chronologies provided by American Club show that investigations into Sincere 02 and at least five other ships languished for months before a sudden surge of activity on Dec. 20. Tadros said its a coincidence that the activity began one day after Bloomberg first contacted American Club and informed him of Nunns comments at the congressional hearing. Over the next few weeks, American Club dropped coverage for 19 ships on UANIs list. It said eight of these were for sanctions-related reasons. On average, the allegations against those ships were more than a year old. At the meeting in January, Tadros described another investigation, one that he said showed allegations linking his customers to Iranian oil sometimes could be mistaken. In September, UANI said a tanker called Elysia had picked up Iranian crude from another vessel in Malaysia. American Club asked Elysias representatives, who confirmed the transfer but provided a document showing the oil was from Malaysia. Satisfied, American Club closed the investigation. We have to believe these documents, Tadros said. But a review of public shipping records casts doubt on the Malaysia story. They show the ship that transferred oil to Elysia had reported picking it up in Iraq, not Malaysia, and that it arrived for the meeting with Elysia straight from the Persian Gulf, where its movements were masked for several days while it broadcast a phony location. UANI says it suspects that a satellite image taken Aug. 5 shows that ship taking on oil from an Iranian vessel in the Gulf. Elysias manager didnt respond to an email. American Club also insures ships that transport Russian crude. The US, the UK, the European Union and others imposed sanctions on that country after its invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The policy banned the use of Western services on shipments of crude priced above a $60-a-barrel cap. It was intended to cut Russian revenue without crimping global supply. That led the country to rely, as Iran does, on whats come to be known as the dark fleet, a group of 500 or so aging tankers, mostly owned by opaque companies. Many ships in the dark fleet dont claim to have insurance. Others rely on Russian or Iranian carriers. About one-quarter get coverage from International Group members, all of which are based in Europe, the US or Japan, and recognize Western sanctions. Market prices of Russian oil frequently climb above the cap. Shipping data analyzed by Bloomberg show that 15 vessels insured by American Club about 4% of its tanker customers have loaded at Russian ports at times when published prices exceeded $60 a barrel. Thats a greater proportion than any other Western insurer. They have obviously got a specialized market in these tankers, said Michelle Bockman, a senior analyst at the shipping news and data service Lloyds List Intelligence in London. She said her own data also show that American Club has a high share of this market. But determining the price paid for any particular shipment is difficult. The sanctions only require that insurers ask shipowners for a signed form promising they will follow the price-cap rules. Tadros said American Club always does so. Bottom line is the US government and the world governments dont want to disrupt and cause this world to go into a tremendous energy crisis, Tadros said. American Clubs financial condition is the weakest of the 12 International Group members, according to Standard & Poors. Its capital reserves dipped so low in 2022 that last year the New York State Department of Financial Services demanded the company raise additional capital, regulatory filings show. The department declined to comment. Tadros said that as a mutual insurer, owned by its customers, American Clubs goal is to break even, not to run a large surplus. He said the companys capital position improved last year and its finances are sound. Tadros denied that the insurers financial condition would give it an incentive to be less picky about its customers. I dont know why we have a bigger percentage of these vessels, he said. One reason might be that American Club has many Asian customers, he said, and most of the ships that get dropped for sanctions reasons are Asian-owned. Another, he offered, might be that American Club works with small shipowners whose backgrounds leave less of a public paper trail. On Jan. 25, two days after Bloombergs interview with Tadros, UANIs Jungman said she spotted a ship named Riqueza loading Iranian oil from another ship near Indonesia and posted a satellite photo on social media platform X. Riquezas insurer? American Club. An email to Riquezas manager bounced. Asked about the vessel days later, Tadros said he hadnt seen Jungmans post or been alerted to any suspicious activity. Since you brought this matter to our attention, Tadros said in a subsequent email, we commenced an investigation. Copyright 2024 Bloomberg. Topics New York Energy Oil Gas A Texas public adjuster committed willful infringement when he formed a corporation and a limited liability company with the names Certain Underwriters at Lloyds London, Inc. and Certain Underwriters of Lloyds London, a U.S. district court ruled on Feb. 7. The Southern District of Texas granted Lloyds permanent injunction in its bid to stop adjuster Eric Ramirez from using its federally trademarked names. Ramirez agreed to the motion. Ramirez was retained by various policyholders in pursuing claims under insurance policies issued at Lloyds. After an appraisal umpire ruled against Ramirezs position in one recent case, he filed lawsuits and administrative complaints accusing Lloyds of improper business practices. Ramirez accused Lloyds of not properly registering to do business in Texas, failing to pay taxes which he presumably claims are due to the State of Texas, and seeking damages in the form of compensation he would have received from the policyholder if it had received a larger damage award on its claim. Lloyds, the worlds premier insurance marketplace, does not sell or issue insurance policies in Texas. Ramirez formed businesses with the state of Texas named Certain Underwriters at Lloyds London, Inc. and Certain Underwriters of Lloyds London, LLC. He registered those entities to do business in California and New York. Ramirez also filed an application to federally register the trademark CERTAIN UNDERWRITERS AT LLOYDS LONDON. Ramirez swore the company he formed in Texas was using that mark in interstate commerce in the insurance business, even though Ramirez, as a public adjuster, is not involved in the issuance of insurance policies. In a response to Lloyds motion for permanent injunction, Ramirez told the court he is not doing business through those entities. Ramirez claims he created the entities to reserve the names, prevent fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement and with the intent of eventually turning the entities over to the state or federal government. The court found evidence that Ramirez accepted service of process intended for Lloyds, not for the companies he has formed. The evidence establishes Ramirezs improper intent and bad faith motives in forming these entities, the court said. Ramirezs actions are also not only likely to cause actual confusion but are causing actual confusion with Lloyds trademarks, wrote judge Andrew S. Hanen. Ramirez additionally harmed Lloyds reputation and good will by making a series of baseless and unsupported claims that Lloyds is operating illegally, said the court. Lloyds marks are famous and are entitled to protection against dilution, the court found, ruling that a preliminary injunction is necessary to stop further injury to the substantial harm that has befallen Lloyds. In granting Lloyds motion for permanent injunction, the court ordered that Ramirez shall be restrained from maintaining, owning, operating, or conducting any business through an entity using the words or phrases Lloyds, Lloyds of London, and Certain Underwriters at Lloyds of London or any confusingly similar words or phrases. Topics Texas Excess Surplus Lloyd's CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) A Virginia bank that is seeking to recover more than $300 million in longstanding unpaid business loans to the family of West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice is planning to auction off land at a sporting club located at the governors posh resort. Carter Bank & Trust of Martinsville, Virginia, took out a legal notice in the Charleston Gazette-Mail on Tuesday. The notice said that an auction involving the Greenbrier Sporting Club lots is scheduled for March 5 at the Greenbrier County Courthouse in Lewisburg. The Greenbrier Sporting Club is a private equity club and residential community that opened in 2000. Justice bought The Greenbrier, which has hosted U.S. presidents and royalty, out of bankruptcy in 2009. The PGA Tour held a tournament at the resort from 2010 until 2019. In a 2021 lawsuit that Justice and his companies filed against Carter Bank, the governor revealed that he is personally on the hook for $368 million in remaining loan debt to that bank. He also said that a close business relationship dramatically fell apart after the death of the banks founder, Worth Carter, in 2017. The 2021 lawsuit was later dismissed, but the Justice companies filed another lawsuit against the bank last November. Justice, who owns dozens of companies, also has been the subject of numerous court claims that he has been late in paying millions of dollars he owes in fines, such as for unsafe working conditions at his coal mines. Messages left with the governors office and with the Justice companies werent immediately returned Tuesday afternoon. Justice, a Republican, is finishing his second term as governor this year and is running for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Democrat Joe Manchin. Manchin has said he is not seeking reelection. Last year dozens of properties owned by Justice in three counties were put up for auction as payment for delinquent real estate taxes. Topics Virginia West Virginia Barr Named CFO/CTO at Across America Insurance Leah Barr joined commercial transportation insurance wholesaler Across America Insurance, headquartered in Riverside, Calif., as chief financial and technology officer. A 20-year insurance industry veteran, Barr was previously technology manager in the premium accounting department for Amwins and vice president, CFO for Hanover Excess & Surplus. Sobel Joins Aspire as State Expansion and Strategic Account Manager Marc Sobel joined Aspire General Insurance Services, headquartered in Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., as state expansion and strategic account manager. He will focus on Aspires state expansion plans, starting with Arizona. Sobel has 30 years of insurance expertise, primarily in specialty auto. He most recently served as a senior sales executive at Kemper, where he worked for over 20 years. Topics California West Cork farmer Helen O'Sullivan has this week announced her resignation from the Farmers' Alliance party. In August of 2023, sick of being tarnished as environmental terrorists, Ms O'Sullivan, a suckler and drystock farmer based in West Cork, told the Irish Examiner of how she intended to run for the new farmer-led political party that she had co-founded in upcoming elections. The Farmers Alliance organisation was launched in April of last year. In January of this year, the Registrar of Political Parties gave notice of his intention to approve the application by the Farmers' Alliance party to become a registered political party eligible to stand candidates in the Dail, local, and European Parliament elections. Ms O'Sullivan, who was involved with the Beef Plan Movement in 2019 and recently graduated from University College Cork with a HDip in Sustainability in Enterprise, told the Irish Examiner last year she was very worried about everything being thrown at farmers. However, despite her recent resignation from the party, she said that this remains the case. 'Fundamental disagreements' It is understood that up to 10 core members of the party have resigned with immediate effect, and Ms O'Sullivan said that "as spokesperson and co-founder of Farmers' Alliance for the past one and a half years, I am saddened to announce my departure from the movement I tirelessly worked to create". "Due to fundamental disagreements at management and organisational level, it is no longer practical for me to continue with Farmers' Alliance," she said in a statement. In my time shaping Farmers' Alliance as a political group, I and my team have built the profile of the party and taken it from its infancy to the strong brand that it is now. "It is very unfortunate to have to step away from all of the tireless work that we have put in as a team." Running as an independent Ms O'Sullivan has confirmed that she intends to run as an independent for West Cork, focusing on the upcoming local elections. She will be running with the issues "close to my heart" of: preserving Irish farms and food production infrastructure; safeguarding the freedom to farm and use Irish lands to produce healthy food for the Irish population and export market; promoting food security for Ireland; and protecting rural communities and ways of life in Ireland, among other issues. Ms O'Sullivan has said that she is "not a politician by trade, I am a suckler farmer, but my experience in speaking honestly about the challenges faced by farmers in Ireland has led me to becoming a spearhead for the movement" "My goal has always been to give a voice to the farming community," she added. "I have been travelling and speaking at meetings both nationally and internationally. Our neighbours in Europe are suffering the same fate." Terroir is this wonderful French word that roughly translates to a sense of place, and is used to regulate (and laud) everything from the fine wine regions of France, to the chickens of Bresse to the grey-green lentils grown in Le Puy in the Auvergne. Terroir doesnt just include the soil and the climate it also includes the people, the farmers, the winemakers and everyone involved in the production of their fine products. This focus on the local is part of the national character of France and we would do well to emulate them and create more PDOs (Protected Designation of Origin). Why doesnt Irish craft cider made from Irish apples have one for example? Besides our producers we also need to mind and laud our butchers, bakers, greengrocers and of course our local wine merchants. The National Off Licence Association announced the winners of their Off-Licence of the Year recently, and congratulations to Molloys of Clondalkin who won Off-Licence of the Year. The Munster winner was Carry-Out Tramore and Wine-Specialist of the Year was McHughs Artane. Spirit Specialist of the Year went to ODonovans in Riversdale in Midleton, and Beer Specialist to Molloys in The Liberties. Other winners included many of the off-licences I mention here every week such as Wine Centre Kilkenny (Leinster), Dicey Reillys (Ulster) and 64 Wines (food retailer). Developing a relationship with your local wine, beer or spirit merchant is as important as the relationship with your butcher in my opinion. They offer better advice, they get to know your likes and dislikes, they will find new wines for you to try and broaden your palate, and they are frequently no more expensive than the supermarket. Selections this week are all exclusive to local independent off-licences and are unlikely to be found in supermarkets. Gabel Riesling 2022, Pfalz, Germany, 19.99 Gabel Riesling 2022, Pfalz, Germany, 19.99 NOffLA Independent Off Licences; ODonovans; No. 21; McHughs; World Wide Wines; Vintry; Martins; WineOnline.ie. This was awarded White Wine of the Year in the NOffLA Irish Wine Show last year and I can see why. Gorgeous peach and tropical fruit aromas mixed with dried apple and citrus, a ripe palate, fruity but taut with dry, crisp juicy apple acidity. Delicious. El Perdiguero Barrica Cigales, Spain, 14.95 El Perdiguero Barrica Cigales, Spain, 14.95 NOffLA Independent Off Licences; JJ ODriscolls; ODonovans; No. 21; McHughs; World Wide Wines;; Martinsofflicence.ie From Cigales in North West Spain near Toro and Ribera del Duero and with a similar climate of hot days and cold nights. Concentrated dark plum and cedar aromas, rich and full with spice and chocolate notes. Winner in the under 15 category at the NOffLA wine awards. Rioja Vega Semi-Crianza 2022, Spain, 11.99 Rioja Vega Semi-Crianza 2022, Spain, 11.99 NOffLA Off Licences; McHughs; Matsons; No. 21; World Wide Wines; JJ ODriscolls; Vintry; Martins; WineOnline.ie. Im told the importer of this wine has a tiny margin, keeping the price low to squeeze it into the 12 category at the wine awards. Dark fruit aromas with vanilla notes, juicy and fruit driven with red and black fruits, and good complexity for the price. Micil Inverin Irish Whiskey, 46% ABV, 70cl. 45 Spirit of the Week Micil Inverin Irish Whiskey, 46% ABV, 70cl. 45 Stockists: McCambridges; OBriens; McHughs; Select SuperValu; Leonards; The Link; Micil Distillery has appeared here before for their excellent Poitin (a six-generation recipe), their cream liqueur and their gin. About time I mentioned their whiskey. While their own whiskey matures (laid down in 2020) they have released some sourced whiskey aged by themselves. This is a 5-part blend and includes peat (traditional in Connemara spirits). Apple-caramel aromas with a whiff of turf smoke, honey and baked fruits on the palate and a solid kick of peat smoke and pepper on the finish. Gorgeous. Cathy Sweeney and I are chatting in a Dublin hotel. Its the first time weve met in person, but we spoke on the phone when her renowned short story collection, Modern Times came out, early in 2020. We were a week into the first lockdown at the time that uncertain period when bookshops were closed and before Zoom became a thing. But she swears that the terrible publication timing didnt daunt her. In fact, she says, it was a relief. The difference between writing a book and talking about it is so extraordinarily difficult, she says. Its a bit of a shock. I had done one or two interviews before lockdown, but I side stepped the after taste of it. That made me un-self-conscious going into the next book. She was living in Duncannon, County Wexford, back then a village of fewer than 300 people with no shop. She had started a novel in autumn 2019 and had done a certain amount of research. Its that novel, Breakdown, that were now discussing. It features a wife and mother who leaves her suburban house one day leaves her teaching job, her husband, and two almost grown children and never returns. I was totally gripped by it and could identify with so many of the womans dilemmas. I found myself putting the book down now and then, to go into a reverie and to work out what I might have done if Id been in her shoes. But what had been the spark for Cathy? The story literally came to me, she says, sounding a little bemused. I thought I could see this woman and see exactly what she was doing. I had the book. The research involved making the journey her character had made by train, bus, and boat. I drove around at dawn. I found a cottage where I thought she might live. I went to the service station, on the train, and on the ferry at night. I stayed in a hotel in Wales. I was really just having a great time. And then the pandemic hit, and I could go nowhere. At first, this seemed a curse. But in retrospect Cathy says it was brilliant to have been interrupted. You dont think it at the time. But I took up my original book and small amount of research and had to excavate down into my feelings and imagination to find a narrator and a voice. And it took me about a year just to find that voice. Most of the words she wrote during that year, ended up being thrown out but the exercise was well worth it for forming the clarity of the novel. For all her contradictions, and, on the surface of it, crazy decisions, the womans actions come over as totally authentic. Thats partly thanks to Cathys expert structure alternating between the womans present as she comes to terms with what she has done and showing the growing discontent of her recent past. Sadnesses and traumas are drip-fed to us bit by bit each event letting us get closer to the womans mindset. I didnt have a full understanding of her nor would I want to. All of us have our own lives, but we carry around the lives we could have had at certain points. I wrote from a kind of alter-ego where I might have jumped off. And I drew on interactions with women my age. I didnt find it hard. The woman comes across as lost not sure quite why she is fleeing; and it takes some time before she reaches a sense of reckoning. I got the impression that had her husband shown an ounce of curiosity, empathy, or understanding, she might well have returned to her suburban life. Agreeing, Cathy says: But I dont think he was a bad guy. I think they both found making a connection challenging. And I found it perfectly plausible that two perfectly reasonable people ended up performing a marriage. It took Cathy almost three years to complete the novel, mostly, because it was her debut, and she wasnt sure quite how to go about it. I was writing it in jigsaw style, she says. I would write in sections, where I thought I was, rather than in a linear way. There was a lot of cutting things up and moving them around. She submitted her manuscript in January 2022, and then faced another round of edits. But when the process was completed, she felt pure relief. I was happy to leave her behind, she says. She came to me like a vision, and I thought, 'Im going to have to write this thing'. It was, 'you cant write anything else until you write this'. Now, with my second novel, I can play. Cathy didnt come to writing until she was in her thirties, but shes been a passionate lifelong reader. She taught English in secondary schools for many years, describing her career as an all-consuming passion. It didnt feel like a job. I just got to share with them the stuff I love. I never got that thing of weariness. Even when I was doing Macbeth for the fifth time. I mean, how luxurious. There is more to learn each time. Yet she doesnt miss it. Id done it for a long time, she says, And done everything that Id wanted to do. Id taught in schools; Id taught in The Institute of Education; Id written textbooks. You enjoy it, but there comes a time when you know you are sublimating the passion to write into the teaching and its not quite the same. She hasnt altogether left the classroom. These days, living in Wexford town, she teaches creative writing in The Irish Writers Centre and the American College something she describes as great fun: Im teaching the short story, but Im very much encouraging the writers to have freedom. In class well read a story, then people write things to find their creative energy. She recently spent two extremely happy years living in Cork whilst teaching during her time as Writer in Residence at University College Cork. I loved Cork, she says. We lived there for 18 months when I was very small. I think I started talking there because, going back, I got straight into the accent. I got the Dart into Dublin this morning, and the entire carriage was quiet. In Cork, people were always talking. I practically never took a bus trip where nothing happened. One day I was reading, and a girl asked me if the book was any good. Still at the playing stage with the new novel Cathy is taking a break while she deals with the publicity for Breakdown. And Im catching up with my reading, she says, smiling with delight. Ive made a list of all the books Ive missed over the past three years. Ive ordered them all from my library. I love the library. We discuss the utter pleasure that reading brings and the times when youre so engrossed in a novel, that youd miss your train stop. I remember when I was reading Toni Morrisons Beloved, I was meant to go to this family thing. But I stayed behind. I couldnt go. I couldnt talk to anyone until I had finished the book. As I prepare to ask one of the worlds foremost experts on love about the neuroscience behind matters of the heart, she is in the midst of setting up her laptop with assistance from her husband. Though he is off camera, I hear Dr Helen Fisher warmly acknowledge him Thank you, sweetie before sitting down. Comfortably settled, the Indiana-based anthropologist and chief scientific advisor to Match.com tells me about a tiny bundle of neurons nestled in the midbrain that plays a key role in generating the feeling of falling in love. Known as the ventral tegmental area (VTA), this structure pumps the neurotransmitter dopamine into several of the brains reward centres when we focus our attention on our beloved. Thats what gives you the focus, the motivation, the energy of intense romantic love, where you find you cant eat or sleep and youre checking your text messages 15 times per hour, she says. Fisher highlights the proximity of the VTA to the hypothalamus, a brain region involved in the regulation of thirst, hunger, and satiety. Just like thirst and hunger, she defines love as a basic drive, one which evolved millions of years ago to motivate us to form partnerships and send our DNA into tomorrow. While its no surprise that romantic love dampens the activity of the brains rational decision-making cortex, it may be news to some that love, bringing with it a host of warm fuzzy sensations, is not an emotion. Helen Fisher: Our experience of each mating drive is influenced by different brain pathways and hormones. The fact that romantic love is a drive independent of the thinking and reasoning prefrontal cortex has some important implications for what it means to fall in love namely, the possibility of love at first sight. Lets say youre at the grocery store and youre ready to fall in love, and theres some cute boy there, and you talk to him, and he flirts with you, and you see hes not wearing a wedding ring, Fisher says. Then, love can happen in an instant. Fisher suggests that love is not entirely devoid of reason, emphasising that romantic love, which she distinguishes from lust or infatuation, can fade just as rapidly as it emerges: If you go out with him one night and hes a drunk and 45 minutes late and he calls you by the wrong name, that flush of romantic love can die. But if you go out together and hes hilarious and charming and educated and interesting and has a great job, the romantic love will continue and perhaps even get stronger. Fisher classifies romantic love as one of three ancient mating drives, each of which she defines based on their evolutionary functions. Sex drive gets us to leave the comfort of our homes in search of potential partners; romantic love narrows our focus and mating energy onto just one person; and attachment gets us to stick with that person long enough to co-parent our children. Fisher notes that our experience of each drive is influenced by different brain pathways and hormones: Testosterone for sex drive, dopamine for romantic love, and oxytocin for attachment. Stable partnerships According to Dr Stella Vlachou, assistant professor in biopsychology at Dublin City University (DCU), many of these same feel-good chemicals are triggered when swiping right on a dating app. Compared to meeting offline, the main difference is that the apps trigger the release of these neurotransmitters in a more intense, repetitive, and unpredictable way, which in itself can be pleasurable, she says. Vlachou believes we should savour the excitement of being in love with a new match. But she also warns that this digital reward loop can lead to compulsive overuse. This risk is part of why Fisher, who views dating apps as tools in our modern mating landscape, recommends transitioning from text-based communication to in-person meetups as soon as circumstances allow. Jacqueline Olds: Companion love helps to reduce the stress hormone cortisol. Picture: Stephanie Mitchell Jacqueline Olds, psychoanalyst and associate clinical professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School (HMS), explains the rationale behind this dating strategy in neuroscientific terms: Our orbitofrontal lobe in the brain, which is the locus of social judgment, gets feedback from all five senses. If its only getting one input from the texts on your phone, you cant really make a good social judgment. You need to be in somebodys presence with all your senses alert to make good social judgments. Our drive to find a partner can lead to intense cravings. Fisher says when we are falling in love, the nucleus accumbens a region of the brain linked to addiction becomes activated. Romantic love is a wonderful addiction when its going well but a perfectly dreadful addiction when its going poorly, she cautions. In her ongoing and yet-to-be-published research on the neurocognition of romantic love, Dr Sandra Langeslag, associate professor at the University of Missouri-St Louis, has discovered that individuals who are simultaneously in love and addicted to vaping exhibit more craving for their romantic partners when shown images of their vape and their beloved. Although these findings are preliminary, they suggest that addiction to our romantic partners may be stronger than substance addiction, especially in the early stages of a romance. Should we be wary of our judgment when we are under the influence of loves feel-good chemicals? Fisher explains that those in the throes of early romantic love undergo a reduction in the activity of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) a brain region associated with negativity bias. The resulting ability to overlook what [we] dont like about the person and focus exclusively on what [we] do like can potentially blind us to red flags. Based on her analysis of official statistics from over 80 cultures collected by the United Nations (UN), Fisher has found that the longer you court before you wed, the more likely you are to create a stable partnership a trend she attributes, in part, to the diminishing effects of the honeymoon-phase positive illusions. However, if youre still in the initial flush of romantic love, Olds has a reliable remedy for your clouded judgment. Comparing our internal warning signals to a smoke alarm, she says: If you have an overactive alarm, you might get anxious about things that are very unlikely, whereas if you have an underactive alarm, you might not spot the red flags. You need to have some friends with good alarm systems who are frank with you and who will tell you when they think youre with somebody totally inappropriate. While sex drive and romantic love may be instantaneous, Fisher believes that attachment or companion love takes time to develop, deepening through greater knowledge of ones lover. One advantage to companion love is a reduction in cortisol, one of the stress hormones associated with the early phase of falling in love.As you get into a comfortable long-term relationship which includes lots of touching, oxytocin and serotonin two calming neurotransmitters associated with well-being go up, while stress hormones go down, Olds says. A feeling that comes and goes Though less stress is certainly a welcome development, many long-term couples mourn the loss of that initial euphoria. Based on Langeslags research, the latter dwindles within the first two to three years of falling in love or as couples progress through the traditional stages of dating, cohabitation, and marriage. Ive shown that the longer people are in love, the less passionate love people experience and the more companionate love they experience, she says. But romantic love does not have to decline over time as Fisher, who got married in 2020, has found. Im still madly in love with my husband, so I do some of the basic things that people who have just fallen in love do. I check my email during the day Oh did he write? The phone rings Oh Jeez, I hope thats him. So, Im still in love with him, but Im not up all night agonising Why did I say that? In 2011, Fisher demonstrated the enduring nature of intense romantic love over decades when she and her colleagues examined the fMRI brain scans of 10 women and seven men who had been married for an average of 21 years. We found similar brain activity in the VTA, associated with romantic love, as we saw in people who had just fallen in love, she says. Except that its not quite the same. Fisher argues that couples, even after many decades together, can still experience bursts of passionate love, but rather than being continuous, she describes it as a feeling that comes and goes. Given the anthropologists assertion that a good partnership involves sustaining all three brain systems sex drive, feelings of intense romantic love, and feelings of deep attachment, how might long-term couples rekindle some of that early passion? Sandra Langeslag: The longer people are in love, they experience less passionate love and more companionate love. According to Langeslags research, thinking positively about your beloved, as well as looking at their photographs or fantasising about sex with them, can serve as effective strategies for enhancing your love feelings and sexual desire for your partner. Fisher attributes her and her partners lasting passion to novelty-seeking behaviours, ranging from romantic getaways to simple interruptions of ones ordinary routine. Much like the early stages of romance, novelty induces dopamine release in the brain, giving rise to a surge of energy and excitement. Olds, who co-authored the book Marriage in Motion: The Natural Ebb and Flow of Lasting Relationships with her husband Richard Schwartz, also an HMS associate clinical professor of psychiatry, echoes a similar sentiment. Its not a passive process - its an active process of continuing to be curious about the other person, she says. From the firing of neurons in the VTA to the release of dopamine and norepinephrine, romantic love is perhaps best described as a biological symphony orchestrated by the brain. And though the initial rush of euphoria inevitably wanes, theres consolation in the knowledge that the same magic can be rekindled regardless of how many decades have passed. Wake up: I start each day with a prayer. 7.30am The workday begins with a handover from night staff nurses. As the educator, Im also checking in with newly assigned nurses, especially those from overseas, offering support and guidance to navigate specific policies and guidelines. I run through each of their patient assignments and plan the day with them. 8am Educational sessions are a highlight. Today, I lead a workshop for nurses on the latest advancements in congenital heart defect management. Its incredibly rewarding to see their faces light up when they grasp complex concepts and feel empowered to provide even better care to our patients. I also make sure they practice the 10 rights of safe medication administration. 10am Clinical rounds are a chance to connect with patients and families directly. I explain their congenital heart defect diagnosis in clear terms, address concerns, and offer emotional support. 12 noon Throughout the morning, I mentor a new nurse from India through the intricacies of caring for patients with a congenital heart defect. We delve into the unique anatomy, potential complications, and specialised equipment specific to our patients. 1pm Lunchbreak is precious. 3pm We have a five minutes to learn session. Todays topic is recognising early signs of heart failure in paediatric patients and the crucial role nurses play in early diagnosis and intervention. 4pm Time for another educational session. 6pm The evening concludes with checking nurses documentation, specifically the new and student nurses. I help out staff feeding patients and get to cuddle an infant and also connect with parents and relatives. Witnessing their resilience is a constant reminder of why I do what I do. 8pm As I leave the hospital, the weight of the day settles. Its not a burden; its a privilege. Its the culmination of years spent learning, growing, and now, sharing that knowledge to empower others. Every day, I carry the hope that this collective effort will not only improve patient outcomes but also raise awareness about congenital heart defects, ensuring every child receives the care they deserve. 8.30pm At home with my two girls, ages 11 and nine. From educator to housewife and mother. Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week runs from February 7 to 14. Follow Childrens Health Ireland on social media for more information. Valentine's Day is just around the corner, meaning that singletons are likely to be contemplating their romantic prospects. While doing so, they might lock eyes with an attractive colleague and spark the beginning of an exciting workplace romance. They wouldnt be the first to do so. Research published by Forbes, in 2023, found that more than 60% of the 2,000 people questioned had had such a dalliance. For 43% of them, a workplace romance had led to marriage, while for another 17% it amounted to a one-night stand. Emma Keane, a psychologist and psychotherapist who specialises in workplace and personal relationships, says its to be expected that some of us will develop romantic feelings for our colleagues. Its how my parents got together, and theyve been happily married for 53 years, she says. The reason relationships often begin in the workplace is because of opportunity. We spend so much of our lives in the company of our colleagues. A shared smile or a chat with a co-worker can easily fire up feelings which can lead to an intimate relationship. Yet despite being common, many organisations discourage such relationships. There are good reasons for this, according to Damien McCarthy of HR consultancy firm hrbuddy.ie. While its only natural that a percentage of people who work together will become romantically involved, only a small percentage of those will have a happily-ever-after ending, he says. This means that workplace romances can get complicated. In the initial stages of the relationship, there may be a reduction in productivity levels as the lovestruck colleagues are distracted by sending each other flirtatious emails instead of getting on with their work. In the Forbes study, 57% admitted that an office romance had impacted their performance. Damien McCarthy, hrbuddy.ie. The romance can also have an impact on the wider team. The Forbes study found that social dynamics in the office were affected in 52% of cases, with 33% reporting an increase in jealousy and another 50% reporting an increase in office gossip. Such negative reactions are particularly common when someone starts dating a more senior colleague. Theres a risk that co-workers will insinuate a conflict of interest, whether thats justified or not, McCarthy adds. For example, if a line manager is dating a member of the team reporting to them, how do they deal with issues of poor performance, punctuality, annual leave requests or designation of duties with that team member? The accusation could be made that they are treated favourably or in a way that is unprofessional or unfair. Such suspicions could hold you back professionally. According to the findings of an Australian study published in 2016, employees who were known to be in a relationship with a colleague were less likely to be selected for promotion or training opportunities. Post the #MeToo movement, McCarthy has seen organisations worry more about workplace romances in which there is this imbalance of power. They could be liable in a situation where someone senior abuses their power, he says. For example, if a superior made advances to a junior and this resulted in a romantic relationship, if there were subsequent insinuations, the organisation might have to deal with a sexual harassment claim. Many organisations protect against this by allowing for inter-departmental transfers. However, this may not be possible in smaller workplaces. Safeguard your reputation Beyond transferring to a new department or even switching jobs to continue dating a colleague, as 47% of those interviewed in the Forbes study had done, what should we do if we fall for a co-worker? Is it possible to safeguard our professional reputation while also having a romantic relationship with a colleague? Keane believes that the answer is yes, as long as we set strict boundaries in place. Her first tip is not to keep the relationship a secret. The research backs up her point of view. A US study in 2014 found that if you tell colleagues about your relationship, it increases the likelihood that they will feel positive about it. But you dont need to reveal all immediately. Not everyone needs to know your business, Keane says. In the beginning, it might be advisable to get to know each other first before announcing your relationship status. Its important to feel grounded in yourself, and in your relationship, before sharing it with everyone. Its key to make a distinction between your personal life and your professional one. People dont want to be caught up in the middle of a relationship between co-workers, McCarthy adds. However relationships that are kept secret can lead to office gossip and trust being broken. So inform your colleagues once you feel comfortable doing so and avoid going into too much detail. You will inevitably be the subject of gossip for a while. McCarthy advises trying not to be too sensitive about it. Your relationship will be big news initially, he says. But interest will wane. Whatever you do, you shouldnt be too openly affectionate at work. A 2011 study, carried out in the US, found it was bad for morale. Participants who frequently witnessed flirting at work reported feeling less satisfied in their jobs, less valued by their company, and more likely to consider leaving. Thats a good enough reason to avoid public displays of affection, according to Keane. Our interactions with co-workers should be inclusive and a PDA is never going to be that, she says. So keep them to a minimum and the workplace will remain comfortable for everyone. Messy breakups Its vital that you remain professional if the relationships come to an end. Everyone knows that breakups can be painful, but try to keep things civil. The less drama in the office, the better for everyone. This is one of the big problem areas because the majority of office romances dont work out, and messy breakups can make things awkward for the entire team, McCarthy says. They can cause huge disruption for colleagues and reflect badly on you professionally. So try to separate your personal situation from your work behaviour and communications. Keane recommends splitting work from your professional life entirely in the event of a breakup. You certainly shouldnt vent about your ex to colleagues or slag them off in the office, she says. Instead, look to your external support mechanisms and vent to your family members, friends or even a counsellor. With them, youll have an impartial space where you can talk openly, and this should help you to remain professional in your company role. Its important that everyone tread carefully when it comes to office romances, as professional reputations are at stake. This is just as true of employers as it is of lovelorn employees. Every workplace should have dignity and respect in the workplace policy and an anti-harassment/sexual harassment policy, McCarthy says. Those are the legal basics. While banning or prohibiting office romances may never be realistic, workplaces need to ensure they have these robust policies in place to protect against conflicts of interest and abuses of power and also to prevent personal relationships from impacting negatively upon the professionalism of the business. From a health, safety, and welfare point of view, you have to protect your employees even when it comes to matters of romance. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Ilham Aliyev and his son Heydar Aliyev have visited the Air Force military facilities and watched the flyover of the Akinci unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UAV), which had been recently introduced into service, Azernews reports. Defense Minister Colonel General Zakir Hasanov reported to President, Victorious Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev. President Ilham Aliyev visited the UAV Academy to inspect the facilities. The Defense Minister and Chief Technology Officer of Turkiyes Baykar company Selcuk Bayraktar briefed the head of state on the Academys capabilities and UAVs. They highlighted the comprehensive training environment provided for military personnel. The Academy is fitted with state-of-the-art tools and equipment. Afterward, the Commander-in-Chief proceeded to the runway for different types of UAVs at the military facility. After watching the take-off of the Akinci combat UAV, President Ilham Aliyev practically flew the UAV at the control station. The President of Azerbaijan signed the UAV after watching its landing. Then, President Ilham Aliyev toured the hangar complexes. The hangars are designed to accommodate various types of UAVs, including the newly accepted Akinci combat UAV, as well as other aviation-technical equipment. The Victorious Commander-in-Chief also familiarized himself with the Akinci combat UAV and aerial bombs housed within the facilities. Later, a group photo was taken. The proximity of the Shannon Estuary and the Fergus Estuary to Shannon Airport has meant any plane that found itself in difficulty might end up crashing into either of the estuaries. This has occurred at least three times over the years. And with dozens of islands in each of the estuaries the chances were that the crashes would land on or near some of those islands. The biggest crash involved a TWA flight en route from Paris to New York via Shannon which crashed at Inishmacnaghton in 1946 with the loss of 13 lives. In 1958, aerial photographer and charter pilot Alexander Morgan was killed when his plane ditched into the river at Wallers Island on the south of the Shannon Estuary. A third crash involved an Air Corps Cessna 172 which crashed into the river at Graigue Island in 1978 the pilot and a famous ornithologist were on board. The island is one of the nearest to Limerick City along with Battle Island and Sod Island. It is the first island that boats leaving Limerick City bound for the Atlantic Ocean would encounter on the starboard side. It is primarily composed of river silt deposited on boulder clay and furnished with a thriving vegetation in the form of nettles. Suffice it to say it would not make it to the top 10 of anyones favourite Irish islands. Evening Echo Thursday September 21, 1978 The Cessna crashed in good conditions on a September afternoon just after 2pm. Investigators described a miraculous escape by the two occupants after the plane had crashed probably due to contact with a flock of birds, they assessed. The pilot, Jerry OSullivan, and the ornithologist Oscar Merne, who was working for the Department of Lands and Forestry, escaped the Cessna just seconds before it sank in 12 metres of water not far from Cratloe, County Clare. According to a newspaper report both men managed to make their way in a very shocked condition to the nearest house about a half a mile away to raise the alarm. They were later discharged from hospital having suffered some cuts and bruises. Army personnel later attempted to retrieve the plane from the mudbank around Graigue Island. Evening Echo Thursday September 21, 1978 Oscar Merne would go on to a distinguished ornithological career. He was assistant on Eamon de Buitlears famous Amuigh Faoi Speir and was also one of the founders of the precursor of BirdWatch Ireland, The Irish Wildbird Conservancy. His entry on the Dictionary of Irish Biography reads: From early on, Merne knew that the accurate recording of bird species and their habitats was vital to any conservation effort. His ability to assess the number of birds in a vast flock, often in poor visibility, would make him legendary in his field. Oscar Merne books: The Birds of Wexford; Ducks, Geese and Swans; and Saltees: Islands of birds and legends Merne wrote several books including Saltees: Island of Birds and Legends, Ducks, Geese and Swans; and The Birds of Wexford. As the name of the island is not possessive it stands out as an anglicisation. A meaning for the Irish graig is cattle-steading. In the 1930s Graigue island was used to graze cattle but on a recent trip there it was obvious that this practice had been discontinued. The word graigue occurs in at least 11 townlands or towns around the country including Graiguenamanagh, County Kilkenny. It also refers to valley. The one-acre Graigue Island has several nearby hazards to boatmen which are studiously avoided: Crawford Rock; Kerry Rock; The Whelps; and The Scarlet are a few of the rock outcrops and mudbanks that spell danger to boats. It has been suggested as a point for construction of a tidal barrier to protect Limerick City from the effects of global warming, such as is sorely needed in Cork Harbour also. In the late 19th century Graigue Island was the boundary for fishing of salmon and trout between August 1 and February 11 and which began at the Lax Weir in Limerick City. Anyone breaching the law was penalised. A legal advisory in the Dublin Gazette warned: Any person offending against the above bye-law shall forfeit and pay for each offence a sum of four pounds, and all nets used contrary thereto shall be confiscated. How to get there: No ferry. Inquire at Bunratty jetty or kayak from there. Other: Evening Echo, 21/09/1978 dib.ie shannonsuperhighway.com An exhibition on The Pogues and Shane MacGowan will have its US debut on March 8, with an exclusive showing at the Bob Dylan Centre in Tulsa, Oklahoma. They Gave The Walls A Talking: The Extraordinary Story of The Pogues and Shane MacGowan opened at EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum in December 2023 in Dublin, shortly after the death of MacGowan in late November. The exhibition highlights the evolution of The Pogues, the rise of punk rock, and the role of the Irish diaspora on the British music scene. It features contributions from family and band members including Victoria Mary Clarke, Siobhan MaGowan, Jem Finer, Nick Cave, Imelda May, Glen Hansard, Steve Lillywhite, and the family of The Pogues' original manager Frank Murray. The selection from MacGowan's wife, Victoria Mary Clarke, will feature never-before-seen or published illustrations, drawings, lyrics and stories dating back to the frontman's childhood and through more than 60 years of music. We take immense pride in highlighting the stories and accomplishments of Irish emigrants, demonstrating that Irish identity transcends the geographical boundaries of our island," said Nathan Mannion, head of exhibitions and programmes at EPIC. "With that in mind, we commissioned this special exhibition to celebrate one of the greatest transnational Irish bands of all time. The launch of They Gave The Walls A Talking in Tulsa will be the first special exhibition at the centre about an artist other than Bob Dylan. The Bob Dylan Centre holds and displays more than 100,000 priceless items belonging to the legendary artist including handwritten manuscripts, notebooks, videos, photographs, artwork, memorabilia, unreleased recordings, and musical instruments. 'Remarkable artistry' Steve Jenkins, director of the Bob Dylan Centre, said they adjusted the schedule of the exhibits to get an earlier opening for the project. As a tribute to Shane, the bands remarkable artistry, and a celebration of Irish music and culture, we thought it was important to bring this exhibit to the United States in time for St Patricks Day, Mr Jenkins said. Niall Stokes, curator of the exhibition, said it was the "rambunctious spirit" of the band and the "peerless lyrics" of MacGowan that made it "feel so right" for the display to have its debut at the Bob Dylan Centre. "It is a testament to the greatness of Shane MacGowan that we can say, without fear of contradiction, that this is the artistic company that he should be seen in." The Pogues. Shane MacGowan's death led to an outpouring of support and emotions from fans across the globe. President Michael D Higgins expressed his support for the launch of the exhibition at the centre. "Shane MacGowan was one of the greatest ever Irish songwriters, President Higgins said. "The resonance of Shanes words was reflected in the extraordinary outpouring of warmth which followed his death last November. "One of the hallmarks of Shanes writing was his intrinsic understanding of the vital importance of bringing a poetic sensibility to those wonderful, evocative songs of his. "These are qualities that he shared with Bob Dylan, whose exceptional body of work rightly saw him being awarded the Nobel Prize In Literature in 2016," he concluded. MacGowan died on November 30 at the age of 63 following a long period of ill health. His death led to an outpouring of support and emotions from fans across the globe, with thousands lining the streets as his funeral procession passed through Dublin. Stars from the music world such as Bono, Tom Waits, and Nick Cave paid tribute to the singer/songwriter at his funeral in Nenagh, Co Tipperary. Green Party leader Eamon Ryan has accused Michael O'Leary of mounting "highly personalised, inaccurate and inflammatory" attacks against him in an open letter to the Ryanair boss. Mr Ryan said he has invited Mr O'Leary to meet with him to discuss issues, but those invitations have "never once been taken up". Pointing to a number of "completely false" accusations he claimed Mr O'Leary has made against him, the Transport Minister reissued his "open invitation" to meet face to face. It comes after Mr O'Leary has been strongly critical of Mr Ryan both on radio and in an open letter issued on Friday in which he repeated his call for the minister's resignation. SUSTAINABILITY & CLIMATE Check out our Sustainability and Climate Change Hub where you will find the latest news, features, opinions and analysis on this topic from across the various Irish Examiner topic desks and their team of specialist writers and columnists. Tensions have been escalating over the Green Party's opposition to proposals that would raise the passenger cap at Dublin Airport beyond the current 32m which Mr O'Leary says is necessary to meet growing demand and to keep airfares down. Dublin Airport has already submitted an application to Fingal County Council to raise this cap to 40m passengers each year. However, serious concerns have been raised around the environmental impact of air travel as well as noise pollution around the airport. Responding to a number of accusations made by Mr O'Leary including a claim that "other EU airports are laughing at Irelands traffic cap", Mr Ryan said he "fundamentally disagrees" with the airline CEO, adding that he has worked tirelessly to deliver benefits to Irish people, in aviation, and in every other issue and division across his portfolios. Mr Ryan said Mr O'Leary's contention that he "disappeared during the security queues crisis at Dublin in Summer 2022," is is "completely false". "I worked assiduously, alongside my colleague Minister Hildegarde Naughton TD, with daily meetings to ensure that the daa was fully supported and the airport returned to normal for passengers and staff alike," Mr Ryan wrote. He continued: Similarly, you are wrong to assert that I was not around for the drones issue. The truth is I engaged directly and effectively to ensure that systems were put in place to reduce the threat of illegal drone activity in and around the airport. "Dublin Airport now has clearance to use anti-drone technology and has the legal right to jam their frequencies or even take them down." Addressing the latest row over the proposed lifting of the passenger cap, Mr Ryan told Mr O'Leary: "You know as Minister for Transport I cannot intervene in the planning process, including the application seeking an extension of the existing passenger cap at Dublin Airport. That would be wholly inappropriate and would mean that we had not learnt the lessons of the past." Mr Ryan ended his letter by once again issuing an invitation for an in-person discussion on all aviation matters. "Throughout this whole period, you have written many letters that have been highly personalised, inaccurate and inflammatory. I have invited you, through your executives, to meet with me, to discuss any issues you have face to face. Those invitations have never once been taken up. I reiterate this open invitation to you again should you wish to accept," the letter stated. Former taoiseach John Bruton has been described as a visionary and a great statesman, at a removal mass at a Co Meath church on Friday ahead of his state funeral. Mr Brutons remains were taken to Ss Peter and Pauls Church on the main street of his home town of Dunboyne. Former minister Richard Bruton carried the coffin of his older brother into the church for the ceremony, which began after 7pm on Friday. During the mass, parish priest Pat OConnor described John Bruton as a visionary and a man committed to peace. No matter what position John found himself, he gave it his all, as a TD, as a minister, as taoiseach. He was a great statesman, his vision for the European Union was far-seeing. He certainly was a great ambassador for the EU. Not only for the EU, but also for Ireland. John Bruton, a politician, a minister, taoiseach, ambassador, all great achievements for the Dunboyne man who never lost touch with his roots. EU Commissioner Mairead McGuinness, Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys and Justice Minister Helen McEntee were among those at the service. Culture Minister Catherine Martin and her husband Francis Noel Duffy TD, Childrens Minister Roderic OGorman, and Minister of State for Sport Thomas Byrne were also present at what was otherwise a service for local people. Senior politicians and dignitaries are expected to attend Mr Brutons funeral at the same church on Saturday, before he is buried at Rooske Cemetery. Mr Bruton, who was Irelands premier between 1994 and 1997 and leader of Fine Gael between 1990 and 2001, died on Tuesday aged 76. He died surrounded by his family in hospital after a long illness. Born in Dunboyne, he graduated from University College Dublin before qualifying as a barrister. After becoming taoiseach, one of Mr Brutons first policy initiatives was to call for a referendum that would see the Irish constitution change to allow divorce. Later that same year he welcomed the then-Prince of Wales to Dublin, marking the first official visit by a member of the royal family since the founding of the state. He was pivotal in establishing the Northern Ireland peace process alongside then-UK prime minister John Major, as they launched the Anglo-Irish Framework document. Politicians have praised his intellect, sense of humour and distinctive laugh as well as his passion for farming and dedication to his faith. Richard Bruton described his older brother as a pioneer of reform of parliament and a man of a lot of ideas. He always travelled on the slogan that every person counts. I think he brought it into his dealings with everyone, he said, during an emotional tribute in the Irish Parliament on Wednesday. Mr Bruton is survived by his wife Fionala, his children Matthew, Juliana, Emily and Mary-Elizabeth, and his grandchildren. An 18m housing plan has been drawn up for the complete regeneration of an overcrowded Traveller halting site in Cork city where living conditions have been described as amongst the worst in Ireland. The new city council blueprint for the redevelopment of its Spring Lane halting site in Ballyvolane includes plans for 27 Traveller-specific residential units on the site and the adjoining council-owned Elliss Yard, as well as extensive landscaping and site improvement works. Details of the project have emerged following a meeting of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on key issues affecting the Traveller community, and almost three years after the publication by the Ombudsman for Children, Dr Niall Muldoon, of a damning report about living conditions on the site. Assistant chief executive of Cork City Council, Brian Geaney, told the committee that the council has carried out extensive engagement over the last two years with the residents of Spring Lane. A stakeholder engagement specialist has been engaged from the outset to work directly with the residents on each residents long-term housing needs and requirements, he said. The proposed design of each house, site layout and family grouping of houses have been discussed with each family, which has proved very beneficial in securing buy-in, building trust and identifying key issues throughout the process. While lengthy and resource-intensive, this form of direct consultation is necessary and will hopefully lead to better outcomes in terms of greater co-operation throughout the planning process, build phase of the development and future management of Spring Lane. He said all design work, on-site surveys, environmental assessments and internal and agency consultation are complete, funding is in place and it is the councils intention to commence the formal Part 8 process "without delay". 'Long overdue' The Cork Traveller Visibility Group's head of advocacy, Breda ODonoghue, welcomed the progress but sounded a note of caution. This plan is long overdue. There has been a lot of engagement between the council, Traveller groups and the city council over the last two years, she said. But we have been at this point before where attempts have been made to refurbish this site. This now needs political will to get over the line. People must realise that this is not investment in additional traveller accommodation it is replacement accommodation of what is effectively shanty town-style accommodation." A view of the halting site in Spring Lane, Ballyvolane, Cork. Picture: David Keane. She said the focus has to be on the children and the families who have been "torn through the mud on the issue over the years". There are three generations living there now. These families are embedded in the community, their children are going to school in the area and whatever happens in relation to this housing project, the families will not be moving," Ms O'Donoghue said. We have been told by some people that a local councillor voting for Traveller accommodation is like a turkey voting for Christmas. So what we need now is support from local public representatives. Living conditions Spring Lane, a former sand and gravel quarry, was opened in 1989 as a 10-bay halting site. As family numbers expanded over the years, there was unauthorised expansion into adjoining fields and living conditions disimproved. Today, the site is home to around 50 families, with an average family size of six, which means that up to 300 people are sharing toilets and washing facilities designed for a quarter of that. While the Ombudsmans report shone a national spotlight on the site, it had been the subject of criticism for years, with several attempts to find solutions. Council proposals to extend the site into Elliss Yard to accommodate the increased numbers were voted down by city councillors in 2011. In 2014, the Irish Examiner highlighted the appalling and unsafe living conditions on the site, when it revealed details of unpublished engineering and public health reports prepared in 2012 warned of how a large lagoon of water and raw untreated sewage on the site posed a serious health and drowning risk to almost 100 children living alongside it, and how a near-vertical 20m-high unstable cliff face towering over homes on one side of the site should be made safe to prevent its collapse. The public health report also focused on high infection rates among children, with conditions including upper respiratory, lower urinary tract infections, and skin infections. It also raised concerns about Traveller women attending GPs for stress-related illnesses, mental health illnesses, chest and skin infections, and said there was a high percentage of children with special needs, speech and language, and learning difficulties. Aware of those reports, former junior minister Kathleen Lynch, a TD for the area who had responsibility for equality, established an independent review of the complex issues in 2013. But when that inter-agency group process broke down, she invited the former county manager of South Dublin County Council, the late Joe Horan, to head up an independent review. He published a comprehensive roadmap for improvement the following year, which, if implemented, could have led to the phased closure of the site by March 2020. But sadly, Mr Horan died in November 2016 and this process failed too because of a lack of outcomes there was no high-level implementation group driving the required changes, Traveller advocates said. Relationships and trust between the authorities, residents on the site and their advocacy groups deteriorated further, as did conditions on the site. 2016 report A report to city councillors in April 2016 revealed just how bad things had become. Councillors were told that city attempts to resolve certain issues on the site had been frustrated, leading to substantial cost overruns on contracts and the triggering of several court proceedings. Delays caused one electrical contract to soar 98% rising from 171,820 to 340,000. Four court dates were required to secure an injunction to support contractors engaged in cliff face stabilisation works. The council said it had made 13 court appearances in relation to the site since December 2014. The city fire brigade was called to the site 46 times in 2015 alone to deal with 39 fires and seven false alarms. The council spent 620,000 removing illegally dumped waste from Elliss Yard site between January 2003 and February 2015. As well as repeated antisocial behaviour on the site, which has plagued the residents of nearby housing estates, the report cited severe and regular intimidation of contractors and council officials, including one incident where an axe was thrown at one contractor working on the site, and a pellet gun was involved in another incident. In 2018, the city council spent some 430,000 replacing 33 mobile homes on the site. Piles of rubbish gathered at Spring Lane, Cork. Picture: Michael Mac Sweeney/Provision In February 2019, the council mounted another large clean-up operation to remove an estimated 200 tonnes of illegally dumped rubbish, including asbestos, from Elliss Yard, at a cost of about 53,000. Around the same time as this clean-up, a Traveller advocacy group contacted the Ombudsman, which led to 11 families and their children, being interviewed about their complaints. The redevelopment of the site was included in the council's previous Traveller accommodation programme, which was approved by councillors in 2019, a plan which attracted in the region of 1,000 submissions, mostly from members of the settled community who live close to the halting site. Ombudsman report Then in May 2021, following three years of investigative work, the Ombudsman published his report on Spring Lane which found the poor conditions had a significant and prolonged adverse impact on children living on the site. The report found the council failed to maintain it, including the upkeep of the toilet and showering facilities, ensuring consistent waste management and pest control, and providing a clear and safe passage to school, as well as areas for children to play. The report noted extreme overcrowding, inadequate waste disposal and heating systems, unsafe electrical works, and a high rate of childhood illness caused by the poor conditions. Site inspections found about 140 people using toilets and washing facilities designed for 40 people. Inspectors observed children sharing makeshift beds in cramped living areas, damp on the the walls and ceilings, and children playing amid rubbish. The council has been working intensively since that report to secure major and long-lasting improvements on the site and got confirmation just last week of some 17.9m in funding from the department of local government and housing for the regeneration. City councillors are due to be briefed on the detail of the plans over the coming days before they will be published for six-weeks of public consultation under the Part 8 planning process. Mr Geaney told the Oireachtas committee that the council is fully committed to improving the quality, standard and availability of suitable accommodation for Traveller families right across the city and works in partnership with families, advocacy groups and agencies to help ensure this can be achieved. Fears are growing around the potential for a large-scale measles outbreak in Ireland for the first time in decades with doctors identifying multiple reasons for this, including a vaccine scare over 20 years ago. This week, the HSE confirmed a 48-year-old man has died from measles, with nine other suspected cases now under investigation. This is amid a huge jump in cases across Europe with the World Health Organisation identifying 42,200 cases last year compared to just 941 during 2022. Doctors are now raising the alarm around low vaccination rates, particularly among young children and people in their early 20s. The MMR vaccine is given in two shots, one at 12 months old and one in junior infants. Among junior infants, the vaccine uptake is at 87% overall when 95% is required to prevent the spread of measles, the latest HSE/HPSC data shows. By region, the lowest rate is in Dublin North Central at 74% with three other Dublin areas at 80% or less. Rates are also low in Limerick (83%), Clare (85.9%) and Waterford (87%) and at 90% in Tipperary. The rate in the southwest ranges from 91.2% in West Cork and across Kerry up to 94.2% in North Cork. Dr Peter Barrett, consultant in public health medicine with the HSE South West covering Cork and Kerry, warned: We are at high risk of an outbreak. There are a lot of children who missed out on their routine MMR, particularly over the last few years, so we are below that 95% threshold that we need to prevent outbreaks. He added: Most parents do tend to vaccinate their children, but we saw over the pandemic some parents didnt want to attend any healthcare setting because of covid-19. He urged parents to check their vaccine handbooks and contact their GP to arrange a catch-up if necessary. It is absolutely still effective, he said, even if they are older now. Also of concern are people aged 18 to 24, he said. Studies in Ireland are showing that age group is at high risk because up to one-in-five of them are not fully up to date with MMR vaccines, he said. The MMR coverage is lower in men than women at that age. Vaccination can also still be arranged at this age, he said. Vaccine scare So what happened in the late 1990s and early 2000s to cause parents to shy away from the MMR vaccine? Dr Barrett said a vaccine scare certainly contributed to the reluctance. He said: Those theories have been completely disproven, there is no scientific basis to them. It is important to highlight that individual has been struck off the medical register and the medical journals have all withdrawn previous publications on that. We are very satisfied the MMR vaccine is safe. In 1998, Andrew Wakefield, then a gastroenterologist in England, published research in this area. He suggested during a press conference the possibility of a link between the MMR vaccine and autism, saying single vaccines might be preferable. He did not say he was involved with a patent on a new measles vaccine. This information only emerged later, following articles in The Sunday Times and an investigation by the UK General Medical Council. The council ruled he acted dishonestly and irresponsibly, and had abused his position as a doctor. They said he put children involved in his research through invasive and unnecessary surgical procedures. This included lumbar punctures; inserting a needle into the spine to collect fluid. The council said he agreed in 1996 to be an expert in MMR for legal litigation. He received 50,000 through the Legal Aid Board for research, which was arranged by a solicitor for families taking claims. They said: He also failed to disclose to the editor of the Lancet his involvement as the inventor of a patent relating to a new vaccine for the elimination of the measles virus (Transfer Factor)". The disgraced doctor is since reported to have met with Donald Trump and others with doubts about vaccines. In Ireland, and around the world, his claims understandably frightened parents. Dr Scott Walkin, Irish College of General Practitioners clinical lead on infection control, echoed Dr Barretts concerns. In 18 and 19-year-old boys, the proportion of people who are not immune to measles is around 20%, he said. That is very worrying. That is a population who tend to mix a lot, they are quite social so there is a real worry there. He said it is very likely this is connected to that 1998 paper. The work that Andrew Wakefield did has been absolutely discredited and withdrawn by The Lancet, the journal, he said. But unfortunately there is a residual effect. Andrew Wakefield has been struck off the medical register since he suggested the possibility of a link between the MMR vaccine and autism. File photo: Steve Parsons/PA There was an outbreak of about 1,600 cases in Ireland in 2000, he said, with three deaths. Thats a death rate of a little less than one in 500, it is really high, he said. Somewhere in the region of 30% of measles will result in complications. This can be pneumonia, encephalitis, deafness, and other serious health conditions, he said. However, he said many parents have never seen a measles infection, saying: "Vaccines can become a victim of their own success leading to people thinking it is not a dangerous condition." He urged: It is a serious illness, and it is very much preventable by vaccination. One reason for the fears, he explained, is how extremely contagious measles are, even compared to covid-19 or the flu. "In unvaccinated populations, the R0 (reproductive number) for measles is 12 to 18, so it is really contagious," he warned. Catch-up vaccines The HSEs National Immunisation Office head, Dr Lucy Jessop, said catch-up vaccination programmes are now being considered. There is a lot of complacency around the illnesses we vaccinate against, unfortunately, she said. There are diseases people think have gone away but unfortunately it's only because weve had such good rates of vaccination that they have gone away. But when the rates drop they can come back. In UCC, Dr Michael Byrne, head of student Health, confirmed they will facilitate any vaccination catch-up clinics being considered. They have already advised students to check their vaccination status. "The high attendance rates of UCC students at the HSE-delivered HPV catch-up clinics on campus recently prove that this approach can work, he said. On the face of it, the trip was to mark 100 years of Ireland-United States diplomatic relations. "I look forward to returning to the United States this week to discuss ways of further strengthening our excellent bilateral relations on the 100th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Ireland and the United States this year, said Tanaiste Micheal Martin, in a press release issued to the media prior to travelling for a four-day visit of Washington DC and Chicago. But in the decade of centenaries, marking the War of Independence and the Civil War, this wasnt an anniversary that was particularly high on the agenda. A month out from the traditional St Patricks Day exodus of Government ministers, where doors are opened to the Irish State in all four corners of the globe, this weeks visit was an exercise in Irelands soft power. A trial run for the Irish Government to put forth its priorities in the much-cliched corridors of power in America during a time of great crisis, particularly in the Middle East. While Taoiseach Leo Varadkar will have the customary White House reception with US President Joe Biden in March, the Tanaiste was this week invited to meet with some of the most senior US politicians on both sides of the aisle. Tanaiste Micheal Martin meeting Mayor Brandon Johnson on his visit to Chicago, where he has also met Governor of Illinois, JB Pritzker, and attended several engagements with the local Irish community. Sources stressed that both in Washington DC and Chicago, these doors wouldnt be open for every senior European politician coming over. The three topics atop the agenda were Northern Ireland, Ukraine and Israel-Palestine. Whether or not Ireland can really exert influence over these topics in the US is another matter, but it is nevertheless seen as a key opportunity to do that. He stated clear aims on each. On the first, it was good news with the restoration of the Northern Irish Assembly, so that was a welcome update he could pass on, particularly to those members of Congress with a good knowledge of Ireland. On Ukraine, it was also good timing for Ireland. The EU had finally agreed on a funding package to support Ukraine but the interminable wrangling between Bidens Democrats and Trumps Republicans has meant a key funding bill hadnt yet passed Congress. What was made clear to me is that theres a majority of people on both sides of the aisle that favours aid to Ukraine, he said. How that manifests itself in whatever particular legislative package remains to be seen. Tanaiste Micheal Martin with Samantha Power, administrator of USAid, and Irish ambassador Geraldine Byrne Nason, at a talk in the Irish Ambassador to the US's residence in Washington DC. Picture: USAid On Gaza, it was far more complicated. In Ireland, the US stance has been roundly condemned in many quarters as it initially did not back calls for a ceasefire. During his discussions, it was stressed to the Tanaiste that many of the politicians on both sides backed a ceasefire, even if they couldnt express that publicly given the political sensitivities in the US. An important point he frequently stressed was his support of the restoration of UNWRA the UN aid agency based in Gaza. Countries including the US and UK have suspended funding after claims by Israel that members of UNWRA were complicit in the Hamas October 7 attacks. Read More Tanaiste urges US to continue funding UN relief agency for Palestinian refugees We've been very forthright in our views that UNWRA is essential in terms of facilitating aid at scale, and to make sure that it can happen at the level and the scale that will make a difference, he said. Because everybody, nobody disagrees, that the situation is dire, and is catastrophic. Dubbed a fireside chat with USAids administrator Samantha Power in the plush residence of the Irish Ambassador to the US on Tuesday, the event to announce a new aid partnership between Ireland and the USA to support food security in Zambia inevitably gave way to the situation in Gaza. Mr Martin was clear again of his desire for funding to be restored to UNWRA, and it came at an interesting time given Ms Power was heckled at a recent event and urged to resign over the US policy on Gaza. You wrote a book on genocide and youre still working for the administration: You should resign and speak out, the Washington Post quoted a staffer as saying at the event. Mr Martin later said Ireland had been very consistent as a country in its approach to these conflicts as he again reiterated ceasefire calls. Tanaiste Micheal Martin listening to Samantha Power at a talk in the Irish Ambassador to the US's residence in Washington DC. Picture: USAid Even on the topic of the Zambia announcement, its certainly not a vote-getter back home, but it was also a sign of Irelands strategy again to secure that soft power. The US had proposed a further $1bn funding to address the global food crisis in the wake of the war in Ukraine and Ireland had come forth with 50m in funding to support the endeavour. This new initiative in Zambia would be another way for Ireland to work with an ally to work on much-needed supports in the region. Summing up the situation across many years of the world, the Tanaiste closed on a rather bleak note. "Were in a bad, negative spiral, he said. Id really worry about where the world is heading. Lots of malign actors about the place. Its sapping our energies, goals and ideals. He added that much work must be done to turn the tide on these issues. Later, in Chicago, Mr Martin stayed in the Drake Hotel. It was this same hotel that Irelands first Taoiseach WT Cosgrave stayed in during his visit to the US in 1928. His message was repeated at each stop: Support Ireland. Visit Ireland. Buy Irish, an account of the 1928 visit on the DFA website says. During his 24 hours in the Windy City, the Tanaiste had a very similar message. And a message that was going both ways. In the Irish-American Heritage Centre, a remarkable building that was formerly a large elementary school, he saw a ballroom that Government funding had helped to build. He also announced the opening of an Ireland House an initiative that basically puts all the State agencies under one roof in a city in Chicago, a move hailed by its mayor as a testament to the enduring bond between Chicago and Ireland. Tanaiste Micheal Martin meeting Mayor Brandon Johnson on his visit to Chicago. Mr Martin talked about the number of jobs created by Illinois-based companies in Ireland and vice versa. At home, a focus of the forthcoming trip from the Taoiseach to Washington DC has been whether or not he should boycott the visit in light of the American stance on Israel and Gaza. Its clear that among the Irish Government and its diplomats, such a boycott would be unthinkable. These doors are open for the State to help achieve its objectives, whether it be on foreign policy, to try to boost the economy at home or whatever other aim it has in mind. And this Government certainly has no plans to close them anytime soon. It is said that one of the most stressful things we can do is move house. Its right up there with the death of a loved one or divorce, and when you factor in wanting to be moved into your new house for a special date or event, the pressure is really on with success, it seems, being in the lap of the gods. Sinead McDonagh, global head of design for Primark homewares and lifestyle, aimed to be in her new home with her husband, Corkonian David Coleman, and their two young children by Christmas 2023, after selling up their previous home 14 months earlier. Before: Sinead McDonagh's living room. We sold a smaller 2.5-bedroom house in August 2022, in Monkstown, Co Dublin, a beautiful location, but too small for a growing family, After viewing-filled weekends and eventually an arduous bidding war, they closed on a house in Dalkey, getting the keys last November. The race was then on to remedy the outdated cold 1967 build in time for the festive season. Pulling up carpets, sanding floorboards, improving heating and lighting and stripping wallpaper were among them, which is no mean feat with just weeks to Christmas and little room for error as Sinead found out. I made a rookie mistake of getting jobs done in the incorrect order, she says. I had all the painting and decorating done and new skirting boards put in looking beautiful, before being told by the electrician he had to drill the perfect, painted walls and uproot the new skirting to chase the walls for the wall lights. This cost me extra cash to get the painter back in to skim walls and repaint after lights were fitted. It was a lesson learned and from it, Sinead has wise words for anyone following in her footsteps. It sounds simple but start by writing down a list of everything that needs to be done in the house, before you move in. "Therell be lots of other bigger jobs that can wait. Place in order what task should be done when electrics and plumbing first, painting and carpets last. Always allow a few weeks or months buffer depending on how big your job is. Before: Sinead's dining room. "There are always problems and delays. We thought wed be in four weeks earlier. Before: Sinead's hallway and stairs. After: The hallway. Aoife Tobin, interior architect. For Aoife Toibin, interior architect at interior design studio Style So Simple, there was no happy ending when she had an ambition to move into what she thought was a new home for her to share with her husband Barry and their pet pug last Christmas. Weve been living in Belfast for two years and found a period home near a street we love and a park where we take the dog. We felt lucky up to it going wrong. Read More When downsizing or 'rightsizing' our home can supersize our life Thanks to Barrys foresight, they had opted for an in-depth survey and it revealed more problems than they could have anticipated, among them rising damp. We were expecting something to be wrong as it was a period property but not this much, she says. Annoying, but we dodged a bullet. Although she had the kitchen designed and the house was in sufficiently good shape for moving in with what she describes as needing just a clean, a lick of paint and sanding back features, shes sanguine about the experience. Aoife Tobin. It might not have been our forever home. Barry is from Limerick and works in Dublin and Im from Kerry, so now were looking in Limerick as my work is all over the country. Im so glad we went for the full report. It was 600 but it was the best money spent. Id say to anyone, be ready for the unexpected. Wait for the report before contacting tradespeople. I totally understand the pressure to get in. Its important to see yourself in the space, so its a little crushing to tell someone not to do it. and you do get invested in it. Next time I wont be telling anyone until I have the keys in my hand. PINK POWER Paint is the quickest and least expensive way to transform a room, according to designers both in its appearance and in terms of how we feel in the space. Ahead of Valentine's Day, I'm thinking pink, pink, and more pink. If you want a sophisticated take on the shade, consider Terra Rosa, a deep rose with a touch of terracotta, from Kraftsmann Paints. The company's designer Carla Benedetti says the colour exudes confidence, creativity and cosiness. Well have some of that, please. Terra Rosa DE5096 can work both as a neutral background or as an accent colour, according to Carla, who believes it adds "equal parts prettiness and drama. It acts as a refreshing neutral update to browns and burgundies, she says. Kraftsmann Paint Terra Rosa. Its one of an extensive collection of 2,000 colours from Kraftsmann Paint, an environmentally-conscious Irish paint company that supplies its range of 100% water-based, low-VOC paints from sustainable US paint manufacturer Dunn-Edwards. All paint is shipped using a proprietary non-spill, no-leak technology to ensure paint arrives at your door exactly just as it was packaged at its store. Kraftsmann offers a next-day delivery service anywhere in Ireland from its website or you can visit its showroom in Fashion City, where it particularly welcomes members of the Interiors Association. Magazine ottoman, 259, burgundy pink, chive green, denim blue and shale grey, Meadows & Byrne. SUPER STORAGE Spotted online and now sitting pretty on our wish lists are these little beauties at Meadows & Byrne. Magazine ottomans are the ultimate in functionality-meets-simplicity with their built-in magazine or book storage compartments offering a stylish solution for even the dinkiest of reading nooks. The ottomans come in burgundy pink, chive green, denim blue and shale grey, so grab your reading material of choice, kick back and relax! Order online or pop into one of Meadows & Byrnes 12 stores nationwide. See Meadowsandbyrne FRENCH CONNECTION Although we might still have a while to wait for the next instalment of Emily in Paris, the Savoir look is the perfect way to welcome spring. Characterised by traditional elegance, paired with contemporary touches and considered colour combinations, this trend transports us straight to the chic interiors of Parisian studio apartments. To achieve this distinctive, light-hearted look, keep the feel of the space light and bright. DFS Mya three-seater sofa in Simply Wool Look in Indigo Blue, 969, and Joules Langton Small Round Plain in Red Plum Velvet, 189, available exclusively at DFS. Wooden floors and pale walls provide the perfect backdrop for bolder shades in furnishings, with blue tones contrasting with reds or pinks to provide an uplifting pop of colour. Elevate the look and add a contemporary edge by introducing finishes such as matte-black metal, wood, marble, and brushed gold. Finally, add a sprinkling of quirky accessories, such as art or lamps that are reminiscent of Parisian flea market finds. DFS Camille king-size bed frame in natural. The overall effect is one of subtle, elegant glamour, which works just as well in a bedroom as it does in a living space. Embrace the aesthetic in the living room by contrasting the classic and contemporary, mixing vintage finds with new designs and setting rich colours against clean monochrome. The deep blue of the DFS Mya sofa provides a contrasting colour for ultimate sophistication, while its boxy silhouette and button detailing suit a traditional drawing room theme. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un restated he has no desire for diplomacy with South Korea and that the North would annihilate its rival if provoked, according to state media. The latest of his belligerent statements came during a visit to North Koreas Defence Ministry on Thursday. Mr Kim said his recent moves to cut ties with South Korea will allow his military to take on a more aggressive posture by securing lawfulness to strike and destroy (the South) whenever triggered. Tensions on the Korean Peninsula have increased in recent months with Mr Kim elevating his weapons demonstrations and threats and the US, South Korea and Japan strengthening their combined military exercises in response. Kim Jong Un, with his daughter, waves as he visits the defence ministry in a photo provided by the North Korean government (Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service/AP) The official Korean Central News Agency reported Mr Kim said he took the initiative to shake off the unrealistic pretence of dialogue and co-operation with the (South) Korean puppets who sought the collapse of our republic. The agency said he was accompanied on the visit by his daughter, thought to be named Kim Ju Ae, who some experts believe is being groomed as a future leader. Mr Kims remarks came weeks after he declared to his rubber-stamp parliament that North Korea was abandoning its long-standing objective of a peaceful unification with South Korea and ordered the rewriting of its constitution to cement the South as its most hostile foreign adversary. The North has since shut down government departments that handled affairs with the South, tore down a major unification monument and abolished laws that had governed past economic projects with its neighbour. Experts say Mr Kims attempts to recalibrate relations with the South, which come amid a testing spree of potentially nuclear-capable weapons targeting neighbouring rivals and the US, are aimed at reducing Seouls voice and eventually forcing direct negotiations with Washington over the nuclear stand-off. In a pre-recorded television interview which aired on Monday, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol described Mr Kims government as irrational actors who are putting further strain on North Koreas broken economy by aggressively expanding the countrys collection of nuclear weapons and missiles. We need to keep that in mind as we prepare to counter their security threats or provocations, preparing not just for actions based on rational judgments but also actions based on irrational conclusions, Mr Yoon said. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Albania and Azerbaijan have discussed gas supplies via the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP), as the Council of Albanian Ambassadors hosted in a welcome meeting the new resident Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Albania Anar Huseynov, Trend reports via the Council. Economic and cultural cooperation, projects and investments in the gasification of the country through the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP), as well as investments in tourism were some of the topics discussed with Ambassador Huseynov. It was also pointed out that the lifting of visas for Albanian citizens would be a good signal for the relations between two countries and would serve to strengthen cooperation in all fields. TAP is the European leg of the Southern Gas Corridor, which started commercial gas supplies from December 31, 2020. By the end of 2023, Azerbaijan had supplied Europe with 11.8 billion cubic meters of gas. In July 2022, Azerbaijan and the European Commission signed a memorandum aiming to double the capacity of the Southern Gas Corridor from the current 10 billion cubic meters per year to 20 billion cubic meters by 2027. Additionally, TAP is scheduled to start delivering an extra 1.2 billion cubic meters per year beginning in 2026. Follow the author on X: @Lyaman_Zeyn Israeli forces carried out deadly air strikes on Gaza on Friday, hours after US President Joe Biden described the military response to the October 7 attack on Israel by the Palestinian territory's ruling Hamas movement as "over the top". Israel pressed on with its bombing campaign as diplomats sought to salvage ceasefire talks after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected a Hamas proposal that also envisaged the release of hostages held by the Palestinian militant group. The United States hopes to secure a pause in fighting before Israel carries out a threatened ground assault on the southern city of Rafah, where over half of Gaza's 2.3 million people are sheltering near the border with Egypt. Palestinian health officials said at least 15 people were killed in the latest air strikes, including eight in Rafah, the last refuge for many Gazans displaced as Israeli's offensive advanced southwards through the narrow coastal enclave. Salem El-Rayyes, a Palestinian freelance journalist living at a camp for displaced people, said children were among those killed when an Israeli missile slammed into a house in an area nearby. "They were asleep in the early hours of Friday around dawn," he wrote on Facebook. The explosion rocked the ground under our feet and the sound still echoes in our ears." He said the bodies of victims "flew from the third floor before they fell on the ground outside the building on the cars inside the narrow alley and in the vicinity of nearby houses". Israel did not immediately comment on the latest air strikes. It says it takes steps to avoid civilian casualties and accuses Hamas militants of hiding among civilians, including at school shelters and hospitals. Hamas has denied doing so. Washington warned on Thursday that any Israeli military operation launched in Rafah without due consideration for the plight of civilians would be a disaster, and said it would not support it. Though the US is Israel's most important ally, it has urged Israel to scale down its all-out war into a more targeted campaign against Hamas leaders. Biden told reporters at the White House on Thursday: "I'm of the view, as you know, that the conduct of the response in the Gaza Strip has been over the top." Picture: AP Photo/Evan Vucci In some of his sharpest public criticism to date of Netanyahu's government, Biden told reporters at the White House on Thursday: "I'm of the view, as you know, that the conduct of the response in the Gaza Strip has been over the top." Biden said he has been pushing for a deal to normalise Saudi Arabia-Israel relations, increase the amount of humanitarian aid reaching Palestinian civilians, and pause fighting for a time to allow the release of hostages taken by Hamas. "I'm pushing very hard now to deal with this hostage ceasefire," Biden said. "There are a lot of innocent people who are starving, a lot of innocent people who are in trouble and dying, and it's gotta stop." Ceasefire proposed by Hamas Gaza's health ministry said on Friday that at least 27,947 Palestinians had been confirmed killed in the conflict, 107 of them in the previous 24 hours, and 67,459 injured. It says many more could still be buried under the rubble from the Israeli offensive - launched after Hamas militants killed 1,200 people and took 253 hostages in Israel on October 7, according to Israeli tallies. Hamas this week proposed a ceasefire of 4-1/2 months, during which all remaining hostages would go free, Israel would withdraw its troops and an agreement would be reached on an end to the war. Its offer was a response to a proposal drawn up by US and Israeli spy chiefs with Qatar and Egypt, and delivered to Hamas last week. Netanyahu said on Wednesday the terms offered by Hamas were "delusional" and vowed to fight on, saying victory was in reach and just months away. Palestinians collect their belongings from their damaged house after an Israeli airstrike in Rafah, southern Gaza Strip. Picture: AP Photo/Fatima Shbair Hamas says it will not agree to any deal that does not include an end to the war and Israeli withdrawal. Israel says it will not withdraw or stop fighting until Hamas is eradicated. In a sign that diplomatic efforts are continuing, a Hamas delegation led by senior official Khalil Al-Hayya arrived in Cairo on Thursday for talks with mediators Egypt and Qatar. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also visited the Middle East on a lightning trip this week to try to secure a breakthrough and prevent the conflict spreading further in the region. In addition to the eight people killed in Rafah on Friday, Palestinians health officials said four were killed in an air strike on a house in the town of Al-Zawaydeh in central Gaza and one in nearby Deir Al-Balah. Residents reported fierce gun battles in Gaza City in the north, and witnesses said eastern parts of Khan Younis in the south had been shelled. Medics and Hamas media said an Israeli drone strike had killed two people in Khan Younis. Palestinian children inspect a destroyed house following an Israeli army operation, in the West Bank refugee camp of Nour Shams, Tulkarem. Picture: AP Photo/Nasser Nasser Philippe Lazzarini, head of the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees, stressed the growing toll the war is taking on children in Gaza. "Children are being robbed of childhood. This needs to be reversed starting with a humanitarian #ceasefire," he wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. Israel accused 12 of UNRWA's 13,000 staff last month of taking part in the October 7 attack. Nine have since been fired. Of the remaining three staff, one is dead, and the UN is clarifying the identity of the other two. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Thursday the world body would act immediately on any new information from Israel related to "any other infiltration". - Reuters Farmers in Spain and Poland demonstrated on Friday as part of ongoing protests against European Union farming policies and to demand measures to combat production cost hikes, reduced profits and unfair competition from non-EU countries. The actions follow similar protests in France, Greece and other EU member nations in recent weeks. Farmers complain that the 27-nation blocs environmental and other policies are a financial burden and make their products more expensive than foreign imports. For four days farmers across Spain have staged tractor protests to demand changes in EU policies (Alvaro Barrientos/AP) The European Commission, the EUs executive arm, has made some concessions to farmers over the last few weeks, including shelving plans to halve the use of pesticides and other dangerous substances. In Spain, farmers maintain that a law aimed at guaranteeing wholesale major supermarket buyers pay fair prices for their goods is not being enforced while consumer prices soar. Fridays protests centered around the northern cities of Oviedo, Pamplona and Zaragoza, with tractors clogging several city streets and commuter roads. In many places, farmers had kept their protests going overnight. A group not affiliated with Spains three main farming organisations has called for farmers to move on Madrid at midnight for a Saturday protest near the headquarters of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchezs Socialist party. Fridays protests centered around the northern cities of Pamplona, Oviedo and Zaragoza (Alvaro Barrientos/AP) The demonstrations are expected to continue over the coming weeks with a major protest being organised in the capital for February 21. Several Spanish media reports have linked many of the protests to conservative and right-wing groups. Police said 20 people have been arrested during this weeks demonstrations. In Poland, farmers angered especially by imports of cheap grain, milk and other produce from Ukraine, drove tractors across the country to slow down traffic and block major roads, some displaying signs that read EU Policy is Ruining Polish Farmers. Polish farmers, angry at EU policy, park a wheelbarrow full of manure with the EU flag in it, in front of the office of the regional governor in Poznan, western Poland (Czarek Sokolowski/AP/PA) The protest is directed against the policy of the European Union, against the Green Deal and against the policy that allows for an uncontrolled inflow of farming produce from Ukraine, Adrian Wawrzyniak, spokesman for the Solidarity Union of Individual Farmers, told The Associated Press. He said storage warehouses are filled with Ukrainian grain causing prices to fall 40% in 2023. There is lower demand for Polish sugar, milk and meat, making farmers hold off on investments. Farmers are also concerned that the EUs Green Deal, which calls for limiting the use of chemicals and limiting green gas emissions, will result in a reduction in production and income. They say that the EUs requirement for 4% of farmland to be devoted to biodiversity and landscape protection will also have a negative effect on their output. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he has ordered the military to prepare a plan to evacuate the population of Rafah ahead of an expected Israeli invasion of the southern Gaza town. Mr Netanyahu made the announcement on Friday following international criticism of Israels plan to invade the crowded town on Egypts border. Israel says Rafah is the last remaining Hamas stronghold and it needs to send in troops to complete its war plan against the Islamic militant group. But an estimated 1.5 million Palestinians have crammed into the town after fleeing fighting elsewhere in Gaza. Mr Netanyahu said on Friday that a massive operation is needed in Rafah. He said he asked security officials to present a double plan that would include the evacuation of civilians and a military operation to collapse remaining Hamas militant units. Earlier Friday, Israel bombed targets in Rafah. The attack took place hours after Biden administration officials and aid agencies warned Israel against expanding its Gaza ground offensive to the town where more than half of the territorys 2.3 million people have sought refuge. Airstrikes overnight and into Friday hit two residential buildings in Rafah, while two other sites were bombed in central Gaza, including one that damaged a kindergarten-turned-shelter for displaced Palestinians. Twenty-two people were killed, according to AP journalists who saw the bodies arriving at hospitals. US President Joe Biden said on Thursday that Israels conduct in the war, ignited by a deadly October 7 Hamas attack on southern Israel, is over the top, the harshest US criticism yet of its close ally and an expression of concern about a soaring civilian death toll in Gaza. The Health Ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said Friday that the overall Palestinian death toll is now approaching 28,000, with about two-thirds women and children. The count does not distinguish between civilians and combatants. Robert Badinter, who spearheaded the drive to abolish Frances death penalty, campaigned against antisemitism and Holocaust denial and led a European body dealing with the legal fallout of Yugoslavias breakup, has died. He was 95. French President Emmanuel Macron hailed Mr Badinter, a revered human rights defender and former justice minister, as a figure of the century who never ceased to advocate for the ideas of the Enlightenment. The French Justice Ministry on Friday confirmed Mr Badinters death, without providing details. Robert Badinter was a key player in the Peace Conference on Yugoslavia (AP Photo/Francois Mori, pool, File) A famed lawyer and thinker, Mr Badinter was best known for his sustained push to end capital punishment. He described seeing one of his own clients lose his head to a guillotine, which was used up until the 1970s to kill criminals in France. Over his career, he saved six men from execution, eliciting death threats in the process. As justice minister under then-President Francois Mitterrand, Mr Badinter overcame public opposition and won parliamentary support for abolishing the death penalty in 1981. Born in Paris in 1928 to a Jewish family, Mr Badinter saw Nazi horrors and Frances collaboration up close during World War II, and lost his father in the Sobibor death camp, according to Mr Macrons office. As a lawyer, Mr Badinter later pursued a notorious Holocaust denier in court. Mr Badinter went on to lead Frances Constitutional Court, served as a senator for 16 years and was seen as a moral compass for many in France for his defence of human rights. French President Emmanuel Macron described Badinter as a figure of the century who never ceased to plead for the ideas of the Enlightenment (AP Photo/Markus Schreiber, Pool) In 1991, Mr Badinter led an arbitration body set up by the European Economic Community to provide the Peace Conference on Yugoslavia with legal advice after two of the countrys six republics Slovenia and Croatia had declared independence. The Badinter Commission, as the body became known, was made up of presidents of constitutional courts of the member nations of the EEC, a precursor to the EU. The Badinter Commission issued 15 legal opinions between 1991 and 1993, including one saying that the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia had dissolved. It paved the way for international recognition of Slovenia and Croatia as sovereign countries in 1992. The Badinter Commission also declared the borders between former Yugoslav republics as international frontiers between newly independent countries that could only be changed through diplomacy, and not by force. Avocat, garde des Sceaux, homme de labolition de la peine de mort. Robert Badinter ne cessa jamais de plaider pour les Lumieres. Il etait une figure du siecle, une conscience republicaine, lesprit francais. pic.twitter.com/3IJ9jekLSd Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) February 9, 2024 Despite the legal pronouncements, wars raged in the 1990s in Croatia and later Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo, claiming hundreds of thousands of lives and displacing the largest number of refugees in Europe since World War II. Mr Macron will preside over a special national homage to Mr Badinter, the presidents office said. In his statement, Mr Macron honoured the memory of a wise man of the republic who, after having experienced the tragedy of the century, embodied the most beautiful part of hope. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Azerbaijan and the US discussed cooperation in the financial sector, Trend reports. According to the Central Bank of Azerbaijan (CBA), a meeting was held with representatives of the Bank of New York Mellon. The CBA noted that during the meeting the macroeconomic situation in Azerbaijan, issues of development of the banking sector, as well as prospects for cooperation between the financial systems of both countries were discussed. To note, back in 2022 it was reported that Azerbaijani banks could establish correspondent relations with the Bank of New York Mellon. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel 1371138342::cfb49c8e-2422-11e5-99a3-d7f5c6e8b241 A weekly review of the best and most popular stories published in the Imperial Valley Press. Also, featured upcoming events, new movies at local theaters, the week in photos and much more. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Azerbaijan's SOCAR AQS company has outlined a series of measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the General Director of SOCAR AQS Samir Mollayev said at the "Caspian Drilling" conference in Baku, Trend reports. "The initiatives include the possibility of transitioning power plants for drilling infrastructure from diesel to green fuel, establishing an energy storage system (special batteries), and improving waste utilization. Negotiations on the latter two concerns have already begun with key drilling companies globally. Additionally, filtration of seawater (on a pilot platform) will be enhanced. SOCAR is also establishing five stations that will provide charging services for electric vehicles and offer a full range of related services," emphasized Mollayev. To note, all these steps align with the ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) strategy, which is being followed by companies worldwide. SOCAR AQS is an integrated drilling and well services management company established in 2007 between the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR), Nobel Energy, and Absheron Qazma LLC (AQS). Stay up to date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan have agreed to actualize the synchronous elimination of bottlenecks on the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR, or Middle Corridor), the deputy chairman of the Committee of Railway and Water Transport of Kazakhstan, Kasym Tlepov, said during the meeting with the Azerbaijani delegation, Trend reports. Thus, the parties considered issues within the framework of the implementation of the signed Road Map on synchronous elimination of "bottlenecks" and development of the Middle Corridor on the territories of Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Turkiye for 20222027. Tlepov informed about the ongoing work to expand the capacity of the corridor. According to him, in 2023, the volume of transshipment through the seaports of Aktau and Kuryk increased by 65 percent and amounted to 2.76 million tons of cargo. "Within the framework of the implementation of the roadmap on synchronous elimination of bottlenecks and the development of TITR, the parties are actively working to expand the capacity of the corridor. An agreement has been reached to update this roadmap. In turn, Kazakhstan is making efforts to develop transport and transit potential in the region and modernize transport corridors," Tlepov emphasized. He also shared information on railway projects, raising the status of the TITR association, digitalizing TITR, creating a single logistics operator, and building port capacity. To note, the Middle Corridor links the container rail freight transportation networks of China and the European Union through Central Asia, the Caucasus, Turkiye, and Eastern Europe. A multilateral multimodal transportation infrastructure links ferry terminals on the Caspian and Black Seas with the railway systems of China, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkiye, Ukraine, and Poland. The middle corridor facilitates increased cargo traffic from China to Turkiye, as well as to European countries and in the opposite direction. A route train along this corridor delivers cargo from China to Europe in an average of 20-25 days, and this is one of the main advantages of this transport corridor. Stay up to date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel ASTANA, Kazakhstan, February 9. Kazakhstan called on the Netherlands and Belgium to jointly develop the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR, or Middle Corridor), Trend reports. This topic was discussed during the meeting between Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Roman Vasilenko with the Ambassador of Belgium and the Netherlands to Kazakhstan Henri Vantieghem and Nico Schermers. As the Deputy FM noted, the Middle Corridor opens up new prospects for expanding for trade and economic interaction between Kazakhstan and Europe. The parties also discussed the issues of cooperation in the region, including in the context of preparations for the VI Consultative Meeting of the heads of states of Central Asia this year in Astana. Vasilenko informed the interlocutors about Kazakhstans initiatives to strengthen regional cooperation in the field of environmental protection, water resources, etc. 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. Today Sunshine to start, then a few afternoon clouds. High around 55F. Winds WNW at 10 to 20 mph. Tonight Mostly clear. Widespread frost likely. Low near 30F. Winds NW at 10 to 15 mph. Tomorrow Mainly sunny. High 58F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. At the beginning of their classic Manufacturing Consent, Noam Chomsky and Edward S. Herman pondered the proposition that media are independent and committed to discovering and reporting the truth, and that they do not merely reflect the world as powerful groups wish it to be perceived. We all know how that story turns out. Media often functions as a propagandistic tool that turns the truth on its head. The best example of this upside-down image can be observed in the dichotomous journalism of Western media on Palestine and Ukraine. By legal and international definitions, Gaza and Ukraine bear many unquestionable similarities to one another from suffering daily air strikes to the bombardment of civilian targets and the obstruction of humanitarian aid by an authoritarian power that seeks control over both respective territories. In Ukraines case, the West and its media newsrooms instantly and unanimously came to the support of Ukrainians and the vilification of Russia. Yet, in Palestines case, Western leaders, supported by their legions of media outlets, have practically condemned everyone from Hamas to Iran but have continuously refused to hold Israel accountable for any of its actions. In actuality, many Western media outlets keep on insisting that Ukraine and Israel are the victims that share similar aggressions from unlawful and heinous invaders. This narrative is sponsored by many Western leaders such as the United States President Joe Biden and the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who have both attempted to paint Ukraine and Israel as two democracies in a struggle against evil. How is Western media creating this narrative and why is it invested in spreading it? In Western countries, much of the public has been taken in by this media narrative, especially during the first stages of the war on Gaza. According to Amer Aroggi, a Palestinian residing in Ukraine, while Ukraine and Gaza were both under air strikes from Russia and Israel, many Ukrainians showed their support and empathy towards Israel instead of Gaza. Aroggi argues that it was due to massive propaganda. While it seems incredible that media propaganda could distort reality to such an extent, the conclusion also seems unavoidable. In an interview on Sky News, Palestinian journalist Yara Eid confronted the Sky News reporter for her double standard and selective reporting on topics such as the aggression committed daily against Palestinians from Gaza and the West Bank. There is nothing new about Western medias tunnel vision. Back in 2008, throughout Israels Cast Lead operation, a study found that although Palestinians died at a rate 106 times greater than Israelis the New York Times engaged in a practice of media bias that resulted in coverage of only 3% of Palestinian deaths in the headlines and first paragraphs. Other features of Western media coverage are decontextualization and overgeneralization. In his second interview on the Piers Morgan Show, Egyptian comedian Bassem Youssef criticized Western media on two major grounds first, for their failure to contextualize events in the history of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Without this context, Palestinians come across as simple aggressors who abruptly choose to attack Israel. Second, he lambasted the press for their attempt to depict Palestinians as mere generic Arabs who should seek refuge in other Arabic countries like Egypt and Jordan, denying them their peoplehood. Piers Morgan Uncensored Video: Piers Morgan vs Bassem Youssef Round 2 | Two-Hour Special Interview Yet another characteristic of journalistic malpractice has to do with sanitizing language. In 2021, many journalists came together to publish an open letter condemning American news outlets for their refusal to use terms such as apartheid, ethnic cleansing, and genocide to describe Israeli actions in Palestine. According to the letter, experts agree that these terms are appropriate to describe whats happening in Palestine, but editors avoid them. And no wonder. Chris McGreal at The Guardian reported this week that the American cable news channel CNN has for years essentially allowed the Israeli government to censor and shape its coverage of the Mideast, to the extent that professional correspondents working at the channel privately accuse it of journalistic malpractice. The Hill Video: CNN Staffers REVOLT Over PRO-ISRAEL Slant Amounting to JOURNALISTIC MALPRACTICE: Report It isnt only CNN. At the end of 2023, almost 1500 journalists from different newsrooms signed another open letter condemning the killing of journalists in Gaza by the Israeli military and the censorship and biased coverage of the war on Gaza by Western media. In this letter, journalists blame Western media outlets for biased reporting and spreading misinformation that, in their words, have undermined Palestinian, Arab and Muslim perspectives, dismissing them as unreliable and have invoked inflammatory language that reinforces Islamophobic and racist tropes. All this isnt even to take into account the way media shapes perceptions by simply not reporting important stories. Israeli indiscriminate bombing can kill hundreds of Palestinians in Gaza in a 24-hour period but this news may simply be ignored on channels such as CNN. If only 50% of Americans feel that Israel has gone too far in killing some 27,000 Palestinians after an attack that left a little over 1100 Israelis dead, it is in part because the 50% who do not feel this way watch channels such as Fox and CNN and have not seen the daily, intensive carnage, which is clearly visible on social media outlets such as TikTok favored by younger viewers. These journalistic practices have distorted the conversation surrounding Gaza. But to say so still begs the question, why? What is the reasoning behind backing Ukraine and demonizing Palestinians? To answer this question, we must revisit Chomsky and Hermans book, where they claim that the Western media is conditioned to Concentrate on the victims of enemy powers and forget about the victims of friends. Hence, media outlets are not just reporters of whats happening but are subjective co-creators of the shifting global order in a bigger game of geopolitics. So as Eva Poonska-Kimunguyi points out, When the aggressor is Russia, the pronounced enemy of the liberal West, the media message generates anger at the atrocities committed, sympathy and solidarity towards the victims. When the liberal West drops bombs on Middle Eastern and African towns and populations, information silence descends on the media. In this case, when Israel, the ally of the US and the West in the Middle East commits war crimes, editors at the big media corporations seem to feel that their job is to paper over these atrocities to protect an ally. Lets not forget that old video showing President Joe Biden proclaiming in the Senate [Israel] is the best 3 billion dollar investment [the United States] madewere there not an Israel, the United States would have to invent an Israel to protect our interests in the region (Middle East). ( Tomdispatch.com) Yes, the Doomsday Clock keeps ticking its now at 90 seconds to midnight, according to the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists but the ultimate time bomb never gets the attention that it deserves. Even as the possibility of nuclear annihilation looms, this centurys many warning signs retain the status of Cassandras. Presidents George W. Bush and Donald Trump withdrew the United States from vital pacts between the U.S. and Russia, the two nuclear superpowers, shutting down the Anti-Ballistic Missile, Open Skies, and Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces treaties. And despite promising otherwise, Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden did nothing to revive them. Under the buzzword modernization, the American government, a thermonuclear colossus, spent $51 billion last year alone updating and sustaining its nuclear arsenal, gaining profligate momentum in a process thats set to continue for decades to come. Modernizing and maintaining current nuclear warheads and infrastructure is estimated to cost $1.7 trillion through Fiscal Year 2046, the office of Senator Edward Markey (D-MA) pointed out, while the Congressional Budget Office anticipates that current nuclear modernization would cost $494 billion through Fiscal Year 2028. Such bloated sums might prove a good argument against specific weapons systems, but Uncle Sam has incredibly deep pockets for nuclear weaponry and a vast array of other military boondoggles. In fact, compared to the costs of deploying large numbers of troops, nuclear weapons can seem almost frugal. And consider the staggering price of a single aircraft carrier that went into service in 2017, the Gerald R. Ford: $13.3 billion. Militarisms overall mega-thievery from humanity has long been extreme, as President Dwight D. Eisenhower made clear in a 1953 speech: Every gun that is made, every warship launched, every rocket fired signifies, in the final sense, a theft from those who hunger and are not fed, those who are cold and are not clothed. This world in arms is not spending money alone. It is spending the sweat of its laborers, the genius of its scientists, the hopes of its children This is not a way of life at all, in any true sense. Under the cloud of threatening war, it is humanity hanging from a cross of iron. The Nuclear Complex and Crackpot Realism In the case of budgets for nuclear arms, the huge price tags are in the most absolute sense imaginable markers for a sustained, systemic, headlong rush toward omnicide, the destruction of the human species. Meanwhile, what passes for debate on Capitol Hill is routinely an exercise in green-eyeshade discourse, assessing the most cost-effective outlays to facilitate Armageddon, rather than debating the wisdom of maintaining and escalating the nuclear arms race in the first place. Take, for instance, the recent news on cost overruns for the ballyhooed Sentinel land-based missile system, on the drawing boards to replace the existing intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) in 400 underground silos located in Colorado, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, and Wyoming. Northrop Grumman has already pocketed a $13.3 billion contract to begin moving the project forward. But the costs have been zooming upward so fast as to set off alarm bells in Congress, forcing a reassessment. The U.S. Air Forces new intercontinental ballistic missile program is at risk of blowing past its initial $96 billion cost estimate by so much that the overruns may trigger a review on whether to terminate the project, Bloomberg News reported in mid-December. Since then, the estimated overruns have only continued to soar. Last month, Northrop Grumman disclosed that the per-missile cost of the program had climbed by at least 37 percent, reaching $162 million and, as Breaking Defense noted, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin would need to certify the program to stave off its cancellation. At one level, cancellation would vindicate the approach taken by disarmament-oriented groups a couple of years ago when they tried to stop the creation of the Sentinel by arguing that it would be a money pit missile. But at a deeper level, the cost argument while potentially a winner for blocking the Sentinel is a loser when it comes to reducing the dangers of nuclear war, which ICBMs uniquely boost as the land-based part of this nations nuclear triad. As Daniel Ellsberg and I wrote in the Nation in 2021, If reducing the dangers of nuclear war is a goal, the top priority should be to remove the triads ground-based leg not modernize it. Eliminating ICBMs would be a crucial step when it comes to decreasing those dangers, because unlike the nuclear weapons on submarines or bombers, the land-based missiles are vulnerable to attack and could present the commander in chief with a sudden use-them-or-lose-them choice. Thats why ICBMs are on hair-trigger alert and why defeating just the Sentinel would be a truly Pyrrhic victory if the purported need for such land-based missiles is reaffirmed in the process. In theory, blocking the Sentinel by decrying it as too expensive could be a step toward shutting down ICBMs entirely. In practice, unfortunately, the cost argument has routinely led to an insistence that the current Minuteman III ICBMs could simply be upgraded and continue to serve just as well only reinforcing the assumption that ICBMs are needed in the first place. The author of the pathbreaking 2022 study The Real Cost of ICBMs, Emma Claire Foley, is now a colleague of mine at RootsAction.org, where she coordinates the Defuse Nuclear War coalitions new campaign to eliminate ICBMs. News of dramatic cost overruns on the Sentinel program is unsurprising, but I dont think that in itself should encourage disarmament advocates, she told me recently. Cancellation of the Sentinel program does not equal a reduction in the number of nuclear weapons, or the risk of nuclear war. It will take an organized mass movement to make good on this opportunity to meaningfully reduce the risk of nuclear war. The re-emerging ICBM controversy is yet another high-stakes example of the kind of gauntlet that disarmament advocates regularly face in official Washington, where presenting an analysis grounded in sanity is almost certain to be viewed as not realistic. On the other hand, when it comes to nuclear issues, accommodating to crackpot realism is a precondition for being taken seriously by the movers and shakers on Capitol Hill and in the executive branch. Such accommodation involves adjusting to a magnitude of systemic insanity almost beyond comprehension. Disarmament advocates are often confronted with a tacit choice between seeming unserious to the nuclear priesthood and its adherents or pushing for fairly minor adjustments in what Daniel Ellsberg, in the title of his final landmark book, dubbed all too accurately The Doomsday Machine. This countrys anti-nuclear and disarmament groups have scant presence in the mainstream media. And the more forthright they are in directly challenging the governments nonstop nuclear recklessness with results that could include billions of deaths from nuclear winter the less media access theyre apt to get. When President Biden reneged on his 2020 campaign pledge to adopt a no-first-use policy on nuclear weapons, for instance, critical blowback in the media was meager and fleeting. Little news coverage occurred when a small number of members of Congress went out of their way to object. Unfortunately, Markey said in a speech on the Senate floor two years ago, our American democracy and Russias autocracy do share one major thing in common: Both our systems give the United States and Russian presidents the godlike powers known as sole authority to end life on the planet as we know it by ordering a nuclear first strike. Nuclear Madness and Psychic Numbing Any nuclear first strike would likely lead to a full-scale nuclear war. And the science is clear that a nuclear winter would indeed follow in Ellsbergs words, killing harvests worldwide and starving to death nearly everyone on earth. It probably wouldnt cause extinction. Were so adaptable. Maybe 1% of our current population of 7.4 billion could survive, but 98% or 99% would not. Such a steep plunge in planetary temperatures would exceed the worst prognoses for the effects of climate change, even if in the other direction, temperature-wise. But leaders of the climate movement rarely even mention the capacity of nuclear arsenals to destroy the planets climate in a different way from global warming. That omission reflects the ongoing triumph of nuclear madness and the psychic numbing that accompanies it. During the more than three-quarters of a century since August 1945, when the U.S. government dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the nuclear genie has escaped from the bottle to eight other countries Russia, France, the United Kingdom, China, Pakistan, India, Israel, and North Korea all now brandishing their own ultimate weapons of mass destruction. And the biggest nuclear powers have continuously undermined the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. Key dynamics have scarcely changed since, in 2006, the Centre for International Governance Innovation published a cogent analysis that concluded: Europe and North America are busy championing nuclear weapons as the ultimate security trump card and the preeminent emblem of political gravitas, thereby building a political/security context that is increasingly hostile to non-proliferation. Like Barack Obama before him, Joe Biden promised some much-needed changes in nuclear policies during his successful quest to win the White House, but once in office as with Obamas pledges those encouraging vows turned out to be so much smoke. The administrations long-awaited Nuclear Posture Review (NPR), issued in October 2022, was largely the usual dose of nuclear madness. Although Joe Biden during his presidential election campaign spoke strongly in favor of adopting no-first-use and sole-purpose policies, the NPR explicitly rejects both for now, the Federation of American Scientists lamented. From an arms control and risk reduction perspective, the NPR is a disappointment. Previous efforts to reduce nuclear arsenals and the role that nuclear weapons play have been subdued by renewed strategic competition abroad and opposition from defense hawks at home. Stymied by the Biden administration and Congress, many organizations and activists working on nuclear-weapons issues were heartened by the blockbuster movie Oppenheimer, promoted from the outset as an epic thriller about J. Robert Oppenheimer, the enigmatic man who must risk destroying the world in order to save it. For several months before the films release last July, activists prepared to use it as a springboard for wider public discussion of nuclear weapons. The film did indeed make a big splash and sparked more public discussion of nukes in the United States than had occurred in perhaps decades. The movie had notably stunning production values. Unfortunately, its human values were less impressive, especially since people on the receiving end of the scientific brilliance at Los Alamos in Hiroshima and Nagasaki (and even downwinders in New Mexico) remained off-screen. Watching the movie, I thought of my visit to the Los Alamos National Laboratory about 60 years after the triumphant Trinity atomic test. During an interview, one of the public relations specialists there explained that the legal entity managing the Los Alamos lab was a limited liability corporation. That seemed to sum up our governments brazen lack of accountability for the nuclearization of our planet. Six months after Oppenheimer arrived at multiplexes, its political impact appears to be close to zero. The films disturbing aspects plowed the ground, but in the absence of a strong disarmament movement or effective leadership among officials in Washington on nuclear weapons issues little seeding has taken place. At the end of January, supporters marked the first anniversary of H. Res. 77, a bill sponsored by Representative Jim McGovern of Massachusetts and cosponsored by 42 other members of the House, embracing the goals and provisions of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. The nonbinding measure aptly summarizes the worlds nuclear peril and offers valuable recommendations, beginning with a call for the United States to actively pursue and conclude negotiations on a new, bilateral nuclear arms control and disarmament framework agreement with the Russian Federation as well as purposeful talks with China and other nuclear-armed states. Specific recommendations in the bill include: renouncing the option of using nuclear weapons first; ending the Presidents sole authority to launch a nuclear attack; taking the nuclear weapons of the United States off hair-trigger alert; and canceling the plan to replace the nuclear arsenal of the United States with modernized, enhanced weapons. The fact that only 10% of House members have even chosen to sponsor the resolution shows just how far we have to go to begin putting the brakes on a nuclear arms race that threatens to destroy all too literally everything. Copyright 2024 Norman Solomon Tomdispatch.com Sacramento (Special to Informed Comment) Who is a public intellectual? What role should they play? Searching the internet yields several answers. Alan Lightmans The Role of the Public Intellectual offers a thoughtful discussion of different visions of the public intellectual and their role and responsibilities. I have opted for a broader description, but with some important provisos. A public intellectual is a person who, by virtue of her knowledge and expertise, engages with the public to promote the public good. An effective criticism of social and political woes by public intellectuals might get the attention of some segments of the public, especially those who might be labeled politically awareindividuals who regularly follow the news and crises of the day. But there is more to being a public intellectual than becoming a gadfly gnawing on the pestiferous hide of the establishment. Eloquently depicting misdirection, mismanagement, and overweening ambitions among the political class can be motivating but often prove insufficient. Worse yet, it could become a self-defeating enterprise when these criticisms lead to public despair and political alienation. It is akin to the proverbial heralding that the emperor has no clothes, with the added twist that no tailor can sew one either. When others pile on, we get closer to a political black hole. Churning out critical essays and commentaries should not be the end but an inducement to search for remedies. What utility do such analyses offer if their message only intimates a rotten and entrenched status quo immune to change and improvements? Channel 4 New Video: Hannah Ritchie on replacing eco-anxiety with cautious optimism & how to build a sustainable world The public intellectual must go beyond criticism of the unsatisfactory status quo and policies by inspiring a sense of optimism in the publics mind about change and reform and suggesting how they might be achieved. How can this be done responsibly? Paul Romer, a Nobel laureate in Economics (2018), distinguishes complacent optimism from contingent optimism (he calls it conditional optimism; I prefer contingent optimism to accentuate the difference with complacent optimism) by giving an example of each: Complacent optimism is the feeling of a child waiting for presents. Contingent optimism is the feeling of a child who is thinking about building a treehouse. If I get some wood and nails and persuade some other kids to help do the work, we can end up with something really cool. In the first case (complacent optimism), the child is passive, awaiting a present with earnest expectation. In the second case (contingent optimism), the child lays out a plan to make her wish a reality. The optimism of the first child is wholly dependent on the largesse of others; she makes herself the object of her expectations. The optimism of the second child is born of her agency to identify and secure the resources she needs to build her treehouse. Contingent optimism begins by taking stock of the challenge. Once the problem is defined, you search for credible solutions to change the situation in the desired direction. In other words, contingent optimism makes the reason for developing an optimistic outlook contingent on working out a strategy of change that makes it likely to achieve the outcomes one seeks. It is the careful mapping out of a plan that justifies feeling optimistic about change. That optimism is contingent on having correctly defined the problem and potential solutions. We should expect contingent optimism from public intellectuals, not despair. They are uniquely equipped and positioned to critically analyze our societal ills and propose remedies that can change the system to better serve the common good. The same goes for the rest of us. Deluding ourselves with passive hope is the essence of complacent optimism. Planning how to achieve our wishes justifies optimismcontingently, of course! Russia must end the forcible transfer of children from Ukraine and provide information about those already taken and ensure they are returned home, a UN committee said Thursday. Ukraine says that 20,000 children have been forced to Russia since the war erupted in February 2022. President Volodymyr Zelensky has called the action "a genocide". Russia denies the accusations. The United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child, a panel of 18 independent experts, pressed Russia on the deportation allegations during a regular review of its record last month. In their conclusions, published Thursday, the experts urged Russia to "put an end to the forcible transfer or deportation of children from occupied Ukrainian territory". Russia has said that "placements for evacuated children are arranged, first and foremost, at their request and with their consent". But committee vice chair Bragi Gudbrandsson told reporters the experts had concluded there was "evidence of forced transfer of children from Ukraine to Russia". "We cannot identify the number of these children but we know that they are many," he said. The experts demanded that Moscow "provide information about the precise number of children taken from Ukraine and about whereabouts of each child". This is needed so "parents or legal representatives can track them, including through identification of such children and registration of their parentage, and ensure that children are returned to their families and communities as soon as possible". - Deprived of nationality - The committee, which monitors the Convention on the Rights of the Child, also voiced alarm at reports that Ukrainian children residing even just temporarily in Russia "are deprived of their Ukrainian nationality in violation of their rights under the convention". The experts highlighted a decree issued by President Vladimir Putin last month providing Russian citizenship to forcibly transferred or deported children under a simplified procedure. The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant against Putin in March 2023 on the war crime accusation of unlawfully deporting children. The ICC has levelled similar charges against Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia's presidential commissioner for children's rights. Russia is not a member of the ICC and insists the warrant against Putin is "void". The committee on Thursday voiced concern about "the alleged responsibility of... Lvova-Belova, whose mandate is to protect children, in the war crime of unlawful deportation of children and that of unlawful transfer of children from occupied areas of Ukraine" to Russia. It demanded that Moscow "investigate allegations of war crimes" against her. More broadly, the experts expressed concern at the impact Russia's war in Ukraine is having on children, pointing to the "killings and injuries of hundreds of children as a result of indiscriminate attacks... with explosive weapons". They called in particular on Moscow to ensure that hospitals and schools are not targeted. They also voiced concern over the situation for children inside Russia, including reports that children, as adults, are being persecuted for expressing political opinion, and especially for criticism of the Ukraine war. And they highlighted "widespread and systematic state propaganda in schools about the war on Ukraine", calling on Moscow to "put an end to the politicisation and militarisation of schools". "We consider it to be a very big risk for the future of these children, who are being indoctrinated," committee chair Ann Skelton told reporters. Argentina's President Javier Milei on Thursday likened Hamas's attacks on southern Israel to the Holocaust, after touring a kibbutz targeted in the deadly October 7 raids. Milei joined Israel's President Isaac Herzog on a visit to Nir Oz near the border with Gaza, where residents were killed or taken hostage by the Palestinian militant group. They were accompanied by former hostage Ofelia Roitman, an elderly Argentine who moved to Israel in 1985, making her first visit back to the farming community since she was released. Milei, who was elected in November and is on his first official state visit as president, has appeared visibly emotional during his time in Israel, and said Thursday's tour was "very moving". He again gave his full backing to Israel's fight-back against Hamas, calling the Palestinian Islamists a "terrorist group" who had committed "a crime against humanity". "The free world can't remain indifferent in this case, as we see clear examples of terrorism and anti-Semitism and what I would describe as 21st century Nazism," he said. "When we hear about the methods that were used this time, it reminds us of the atrocities of the Holocaust," he added, according to remarks translated from Spanish by Herzog's office. Nir Oz lies opposite Khan Yunis, the Gaza Strip home to the suspected mastermind of the attacks Yahya Sinwar, Hamas's leader in the territory. It has been subjected to days of heavy bombardment as Israel tries to hunt him down and other senior leaders. The kibbutz, founded in 1958, saw a quarter of its 400 or so residents killed or kidnapped in the unprecedented assault, while some 60 percent of its houses were destroyed. Milei, wearing a black leather jacket, black combat trousers and trainers, stepped through the burned-out ruins and passed walls covered in dried blood, as the sound of heavy shelling and automatic gunfire echoed from Khan Yunis nearby. Soon after the visit of the two presidents, an alert sounded signalling the first rocket attacks in the region in three days. - No comparison - Many traumatised Israelis have likened the attacks -- which left 1,160 dead according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli statistics -- to the horrors of the Holocaust. A total of 132 of the 250 people taken hostage are still in Gaza, but 29 are presumed dead, Israel has said. Milei wore a metal tag around his neck with the slogan "bring them home now" in English and Hebrew, referring to remaining hostages. The head of Jerusalem's Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial centre, has described comparisons between the October 7 attacks and Nazi Germany's systematic extermination of Europe's Jews as "simplistic... even if there are similarities in the genocidal intentions, sadism and barbarism of Hamas". "The crimes that took place on October 7 are on the same level as Nazi crimes, but they are not the Shoah," Dani Dayan told AFP last year, using the Hebrew term for the Holocaust. Argentina is home to around 200,000 Jews -- one of the largest communities in Latin America -- and 12 out of the 18 Argentinian nationals residing in Nir Oz were captured in the Hamas attack. Inside Rotman's house, only beds, Spanish-language books on the tango and a photograph of the communist revolutionary Ernesto "Che" Guevara remained. Outside lay a television ripped from the wall of her bedroom. Rotman, 77, suffered an arm injury during her kidnapping and has since had to undergo several operations. Milei, who was raised in a Catholic family but has studied Jewish scripture, placed a wreath near the eternal flame at the Hall of Remembrance at Yad Vashem on Wednesday. He arrived in Israel on Tuesday on a four-day visit and immediately announced plans to move the Argentinian embassy to Jerusalem. Only a handful of countries have their embassy to Israel in Jerusalem, rather than Tel Aviv, and any international recognition of the city's status as a capital is deeply controversial. Hamas, which runs Gaza, said in response that Jerusalem remains "occupied Palestinian land". video-blb-phz/ibz/dv Israel's armed forces stepped up air strikes on Gaza's far-southern Rafah on Thursday as fears of ground fighting grew among the more than one million Palestinians crowded into the city. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken left Israel without securing a pause in fighting, wrapping up his fifth crisis tour of the Middle East since the war started. Heavy fighting raged on despite international efforts towards a ceasefire in the bloodiest ever Gaza war sparked by Hamas's October 7 attack on southern Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he had ordered troops to "prepare to operate" in Rafah, after rejecting what he labelled Hamas's "bizarre demands" in truce talks. Netanyahu announced the order despite UN chief Antonio Guterres warning that a military push into Rafah "would exponentially increase what is already a humanitarian nightmare". AFP journalists reported that Israel carried out at least seven air strikes overnight in the Rafah area, terrifying civilians crowded into shelters and makeshift camps. "These strikes are proof there is no safety in Rafah," said resident Umm Hassan, 48, whose home was damaged in the shelling of the nearby house of a local police chief. "Look at the residential unit they just blew up," he said. "Regarding Netanyahu's threat to invade Rafah, we are people of faith. We are not worried. Life is one and God is one." Strikes and ground combat continued across the Hamas-ruled territory, now in its fifth month of war, where the health ministry said another 130 people were killed in 24 hours. - Cairo truce talks - Blinken ended his fifth tour of the region, where US forces have been drawn into related conflicts from Iraq to Yemen. The US top envoy stopped short of calling on Israel not to move on Rafah, but warned that any "military operation that Israel undertakes needs to put civilians first and foremost". On the ceasefire talks, Blinken insisted he still saw "space for agreement to be reached" to halt the fighting and bring home hostages. Egypt was set to host new talks on Thursday with Qatari and Hamas negotiators hoping to achieve "calm" in Gaza and a prisoner-hostage exchange, an Egyptian official said. Blinken told reporters that Hamas's counter-proposal had at least offered an opportunity "to pursue negotiations". "While there are some clear non-starters in Hamas's response, we do think it creates space for agreement to be reached, and we will work at that relentlessly until we get there," he said. Hamas said a delegation led by Khalil al-Hayya, a leading member of the group's political bureau, was travelling to Cairo. A Gaza-based Palestinian official close to the militant group later told AFP: "We expect the negotiations to be very complex and difficult. "But Hamas is open to discussions and the movement is keen to reach a ceasefire," added the official, speaking on condition of anonymity. The official said the talks would concentrate on the first phase of a proposed ceasefire, which was envisioned to last "about six weeks". During that time, talks would be held about an exchange of hostages for women and children held in Israeli prisons, and the entry of hundreds of aid trucks to Gaza. - 'War crime' charge - Hamas's unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7 resulted in the deaths of about 1,160 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. Israel vowed to eliminate Hamas and launched air strikes and a ground offensive that have killed at least 27,840 people, mostly women and children, according to the Gaza health ministry. Militants also seized around 250 hostages. Israel says 132 remain in Gaza, of whom 29 are believed to have died. Months of bombardment and siege have deepened a humanitarian crisis, especially in southern Gaza. "Their living conditions are abysmal," UN humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths said. "They lack the basic necessities to survive, stalked by hunger, disease and death." UN rights chief Volker Turk charged that Israel was committing a "war crime" with its reported destruction of buildings to create a "buffer zone" along the border inside Gaza. Israel's "extensive destruction of property, not justified by military necessity and carried out unlawfully and wantonly, amounts to a grave breach of the Fourth Geneva Convention, and a war crime", he said in a statement. The Gaza war has sparked a surge in violence across the region by Iran-backed groups operating in solidarity with Hamas, drawing retaliatory attacks from Israel and the United States and its allies. A US air strike in Iraq on Wednesday killed a senior commander from a pro-Iran armed group who US Central Command said was "responsible for directly planning and participating in attacks on US forces". The strike came after Washington last week launched a wave of attacks on Iran-linked targets in Iraq and Syria following the killing of three US troops in neighbouring Jordan. US and British forces have also struck Yemen's Huthi rebels to deter their attacks on Red Sea shipping. In other diplomatic attempts to end the war, Jordan's King Abdullah II left on a tour of the United States, Canada, France and Germany, the royal court said. The White House said President Joe Biden and the king would discuss the "US effort to support the Palestinian people including through enhanced humanitarian assistance into Gaza and a vision for a durable peace to include a two-state solution with Israel's security guaranteed". Israel meanwhile hosted its latest foreign leader, Argentina's President Javier Milei, a staunch ally who toured a kibbutz targeted in the October 7 raids. Milei voiced his backing for Israel's war against Hamas, calling the Palestinian Islamists a "terrorist group" who had committed "a crime against humanity". burs-jd/fz/kir The United States warned Israel Thursday that it risks "disaster" if it sends troops into Gaza's far-southern city of Rafah, where more than one million Palestinians have sought refuge. The warning came after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he had ordered troops to "prepare to operate" in Rafah, the last major town in the Gaza Strip Israeli ground troops have yet to enter. Israel's armed forces stepped up its air strikes on the city on Thursday as fears of ground fighting grew among the hundreds of thousands of civilians displaced from other parts of Gaza who are now sheltering in tents and bombed out buildings. UN chief Antonio Guterres warned that a military push into Rafah "would exponentially increase what is already a humanitarian nightmare". Heavy fighting raged on despite international efforts towards a ceasefire in the bloodiest ever Gaza war sparked by Hamas's October 7 attack on southern Israel. State Department deputy spokesman Vedant Patel said Washington had "yet to see any evidence of serious planning" for a Rafah ground operation. Noting that Rafah is also a crucial entry point for humanitarian aid destined for Gaza, Patel said such an assault was "not something we'd support". "To conduct such an operation right now with no planning and little thought... would be a disaster." Secretary of State Antony Blinken conveyed Washington's concerns to Netanyahu directly during their talks on Wednesday in Jerusalem, Patel said. Publicly, the US top diplomat warned that any "military operation that Israel undertakes needs to put civilians first and foremost." Blinken left Israel without securing a pause in fighting, wrapping up his fifth crisis tour of the Middle East since the war started. AFP journalists reported that Israel carried out at least seven air strikes overnight in the Rafah area, terrifying civilians crowded into shelters and makeshift camps. "These strikes are proof there is no safety in Rafah," said resident Umm Hassan, 48, whose home was damaged in the shelling of the nearby house of a local police chief. "Look at the residential unit they just blew up," he said. "Regarding Netanyahu's threat to invade Rafah, we are people of faith. We are not worried. Life is one and God is one." Strikes and ground combat continued across the Hamas-ruled territory, now in its fifth month of war, where the health ministry said another 130 people were killed in 24 hours. - Cairo truce talks - Blinken ended his fifth tour of the region, where US forces have been drawn into related conflicts from Iraq to Yemen. On the ceasefire talks, Blinken insisted he still saw "space for agreement to be reached" to halt the fighting and bring home hostages. Egypt was set to host new talks with Qatari and Hamas negotiators hoping to achieve "calm" in Gaza and a prisoner-hostage exchange, an Egyptian official said. The Israeli prime minister had rejected what he labelled Hamas's "bizarre demands" in the talks. Blinken told reporters that Hamas's counter-proposal had at least offered an opportunity "to pursue negotiations". "While there are some clear non-starters in Hamas's response, we do think it creates space for agreement to be reached, and we will work at that relentlessly until we get there," he said. Hamas said a delegation led by Khalil al-Hayya, a leading member of the group's political bureau, was travelling to Cairo. A Gaza-based Palestinian official close to the militant group later told AFP: "We expect the negotiations to be very complex and difficult. "But Hamas is open to discussions and the movement is keen to reach a ceasefire," added the official, speaking on condition of anonymity. - 'War crime' charge - Hamas's unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7 resulted in the deaths of about 1,160 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. Israel vowed to eliminate Hamas and launched air strikes and a ground offensive that have killed at least 27,840 people, mostly women and children, according to the Gaza health ministry. Militants also seized around 250 hostages. Israel says 132 remain in Gaza, of whom 29 are believed to have died. Months of bombardment and siege have deepened a humanitarian crisis, especially in southern Gaza. "Their living conditions are abysmal," UN humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths said. "They lack the basic necessities to survive, stalked by hunger, disease and death." UN rights chief Volker Turk charged that Israel was committing a "war crime" with its reported destruction of buildings to create a "buffer zone" along the border inside Gaza. Israel's "extensive destruction of property, not justified by military necessity and carried out unlawfully and wantonly, amounts to a grave breach of the Fourth Geneva Convention, and a war crime", he said in a statement. The Gaza war has sparked a surge in violence across the region by Iran-backed groups operating in solidarity with Hamas, drawing retaliatory attacks from Israel and the United States and its allies. A US air strike in Iraq on Wednesday killed a senior commander from a pro-Iran armed group who US Central Command said was "responsible for directly planning and participating in attacks on US forces". The strike came after Washington last week launched a wave of attacks on Iran-linked targets in Iraq and Syria following the killing of three US troops in neighbouring Jordan. The Israeli military confirmed it had targeted a commander of Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah that it held responsible for recent rocket fire into Israel from south Lebanon. In other diplomatic attempts to end the war, Jordan's King Abdullah II left on a tour of the United States, Canada, France and Germany, the royal court said. burs/kir/dcp The Asante empire was the largest and most powerful in the region in the 18th century and controlled an area that was rich in gold. Many of the gold royal artefacts were looted by British troops during the third Anglo-Asante war of 1874. The first collection of seven objects is expected from the Fowler Museum at the University of California in Los Angeles. The second collection of 32 will arrive from the British Museum and the Victoria & Albert Museum in the UK. These artefacts are being loaned to the Asante people for six years. RACHEL AMA ASAA ENGMANN: What are these objects and how did they were looted? IVOR AGYEMAN-DUAH: They were royal regalia that was looted in 1874 from the palace in Kumasi after the sacking of the city by British colonial military troops. There was another a punitive expedition in 1896 which led to further looting. They included ceremonial swords and ceremonial cups, some of them very important in terms of a palaces measurement of royalty. For instance, the Mponponsuo sword, created 300 years ago, dates back to the legendary Okomfo (spiritual leader) linked with the founding of the empire, Okomfo Anokye. This sword is what the Asantehene used to swear the oath of allegiance to his people. Chiefs used the same sword to swear their oaths to the Asantehene. Some of the items were sold at auction on the open market in London; art collectors bought them and eventually donated some of them to museums (some were kept in private collections). The British Museum and the Victoria & Albert Museum also bought some of them. However, not every item you see at the British Museum was looted. For instance, there were cultural exchanges between the Asantehene Osei Bonsu and Thomas Edward Bowdich, an emissary of the African Company of Merchants who travelled to Kumasi in 1817 to negotiate trade. Some gifts were given to Bowdich, who deposited them at the British Museum later on. There were 14 of these items. How was the agreement reached? The issue has been on the drawing board for half a century. Its not just an immediate concern of the current Asantehene. It has been a concern of the last three occupants of the stool (throne). But this year is critical because it marks 150 years since the Sagrenti War. It also marks 100 years since the return of the Asantehene Agyeman Prempeh after his exile in Seychelles and 25 years since the current Asantehene, Oseu Tutu II, ascended the stool. So, while in London in May 2023, after having official discussions with directors of these museums, he reopened discussions and negotiations. He asked me and Malcolm McLeod, former curator and scholar at the British Museum and vice-principal at the University of Glasgow, to help in the technical decisions that would be made. Weve been working on this for the past nine months. Why is it a six year loan and not an outright return? The moral right to ownership does exist. But there are also the laws of antiquity in the UK. The Victoria & Albert and the British Museum are national museums. They are governed by very strict laws which do not permit de-accessioning or permanently removing a work of art or other object from a museums collection to sell it or otherwise dispose of it. That had always been the constraining factor over the last 50 years. But there was also a way that we could have these items for a maximum of six years. Not all the objects are being exhibited at the British Museum. Many have never been exhibited and lie in storage in a warehouse. Based on the circumstances and the trinity of anniversaries, we came to an agreement. Discussions will however continue between us and these museums to find a lasting agreement. Of course, the Ghana experience will be important for restitution claims from other countries in Africa. What does this mean to the Asante people and Ghana? The fact that over the last couple of months we were able to reach some form of agreement for this to happen is testimony of the interest in multicultural agreements. Any set of objects that is 150 years old (or older) will be of interest to many people. Such artefacts help us to connect the past with the present. They are significant for how our people were, in terms of creativity and technology, how they were able to use gold and other artistic properties. They are also something that will inspire those who are in the craft of gold production today. Manhiya Palace Museum reopens this year in April. The exhibition of these objects is going to increase visitor attendance at the museum. It receives about 80,000 visitors a year and we estimate that it could rise to 200,000 a year with the return of these objects. This will generate revenue and allow us to expand and develop our own museums. This article is republished from The Conversation France under a Creative Commons licence. Read the original article. ASTANA, Kazakhstan, February 9. The World Bank (WB) will conduct a study on the decline of the Caspian Sea level, Trend reports via the port of Aktau. WB specialists visited the seaport to introduce the team that will carry out the research. Over the next 18 months, experts from HR Wallingford Company will systematically examine data from previous studies on the Caspian Sea, results of regional climate models (RCM), prepare a digital elevation model, and a hydrological model of the watersheds. Hydrodynamic modeling of the entire Caspian Sea and the port of Aktau will also be conducted using software (TELEMAC) to simulate future climate change scenarios. The data and recommendations generated during the research will be utilized in subsequent projects for the reconstruction and modernization of the infrastructure and equipment of the Aktau port. To note, the decline in the Caspian Sea level over the past decades has become a serious problem affecting the ecology, economy, and social aspects of the countries bordering this inland body of water. Experts express concerns about the long-term consequences of this phenomenon, including loss of biodiversity, deterioration of water and air quality, as well as threats to economic stability. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Park Min Young returned with, not just the hit K-drama "Marry My Husband." The actress takes inspiration from her character Kang Ji Won to do this heartwarming deed. Park Min Young Donated 75,043 USD to the Cancer Center in Seoul In her comeback, the Hallyu queen plays a terminally-ill patient diagnosed with stomach cancer, but was able to get back to life after a shocking incident. As the tvN drama nears its finale, Park Min Young garners attention for making this gesture to the public. Taking inspiration from her character Kang Ji Won, the actress has donated 100 million won, or about 75,000 USD, to the Cancer Center at Asan Medical Center in Seoul. According to a news outlet, the institute announced that Park Min Young donated the huge amount to the hospital's cancer center. The official also mentioned that the donation will be used for the treatment of patients who are battling with. As mentioned, the heartwarming gesture was heavily influenced by her character in "Marry My Husband." In the webtoon-based K-drama, Kang Ji Won experiences a bug slump in her life after marriage. Apart from her diagnosis, she is also getting weaker because of the treatments and procedures. Not only that, she witnesses how her husband, Park Min Hwan (Lee Yi Kyung), cheats on her with her best friend, Jung Soo Min (Song Ha Yoon). IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Park Min Young Unbothered By Controversy Amid Continued Success of 'Marry My Husband' However, Kang Ji Won's life changes after a surprising incident. She is given a second shot at life and is able to turn back time to 10 years ago. At this point, she has the ability to correct her mistakes with the help of Yoo Ji Hyuk (Na In Woo). Interestingly, Park Min Young's new drama shows no signs of slowing as the revenge series continues to receive positive feedback from viewers, as well as soaring viewership ratings. Meanwhile, the actress continues to give back to various organizations. Apart from her donation to the cancer patients, Park Min Young showed her support for the Hope Bridge Disaster Relief Association. At the time when the forest fire hit Uljin, Gyeongbuk, and Samcheok, Gangwon, the 37-year-old star was among the celebrities who donated millions of wons to help the locals who were affected by the incident. In addition, with Park Min Young being an animal lover, she donated 5,017,500 won, or around 4,451 USD, to the animal protection group KARA. This was from the proceeds of her activity during a fan meeting in Taiwan. READ MORE: 'Marry My Husband' Viewership Declined Because of BoA? Actress Criticized for 'Weak' Performance For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news, keep your tabs open here at KDramaStars. KDramaStars owns this article Written by Geca Wills The tension is real for Song Joong Ki's newest film "My Name Is Loh Kiwan" as fans around the world are all tuning in for its premiere. Because of this, eyes are also focused on Choi Sung Eun, a rising star who's become Song Joong Ki's first-ever leading lady this 2024. Through the Netflix film, the actress is set to showcase her high caliber skills to prove herself to the viewers. Read on to know more about Choi Sung Eun. Choi Sung Eun To Play Belgian Beauty In New Film Ahead of its premiere, Netflix's brand new noir film "My Name Is Loh Kiwan" released a teaser of Choi Sung Eun in her newest actign role. She returns to the screens this 2024 alongside big star Song Joong Ki who's taking on the titular role. Meanwhile, Choi Sung Eun transforms into Marie, a Belgian-Korean beauty. Marie meets Loh Kiwan in Belgium after the latter becomes a refugee. Their fateful meeting blossoms into a deep connection while hope also fosters in between their love. The newly released teaser captures the journey of Marie as she reflects on her life after losing her will to live. She showcases her high concentration with her character, capturing the viewers' eyes. READ MORE: Song Joong Ki's 'My Name Is Loh Kiwan' Confirms Release + Film To Debut With Mature Rating With this, excitement for the actress is through the roof. Her performance as Marie, a former athlete in Belgium, and her chemistry with Song Joong Ki are expected to satisfy the viewers. Meanwhile, Choi Sung Eun displayed great synchronization with her roles in her previous works "Beyond Evil," "Start-Up," "The Sound of Magic" and more. Here's What To Expect From 'My Name Is Loh Kiwan' According to Choi Sung Eun, viewers will be able to find comfort through living vicariously as Loh Kiwan and Marie in the film. "From finding hope and will to live, and the love for humanity, there's a lot of layers to check out in the work," she said. "This is for the people living the most precarious moments of their lives." Meanwhile, Kim Hee Jin, the director, aims to deliver the message that life is still worth living for despite the pain, struggles and agony through the film. Check out "My Name Is Loh Kiwan" on Netflix this March 1. It will be available in all parts of the world with English subtitles so don't miss it. ALSO READ: Choi Sung Eun Films, Dramas To Watch This Week: 'Start-Up,' 'Beyond Evil,' More! KDramaStars owns this article. Written by Elijah Mully. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. The Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Greece Erlan Baudarbek-Kozhataev has held a meeting with the Mayor of the Greek city of Piraeus Giannis Moralis, during which the parties reached an agreement to establish cooperation between the cities of Aktau and Piraeus, Trend reports, referring to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan. Mayor Moralis briefed the ambassador on the growth strategies for Greece's largest port, situated within the city. This port boasts feeder connection to the Mediterranean, Black, and Adriatic seas, along with rail and road links to Balkan and Central European countries. Ambassador Baudarbek-Kozhataev highlighted the potential collaboration between Kazakhstan and Greece in leveraging logistical opportunities to enhance the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), utilizing the seaports of Aktau and Kuryk. Moralis expressed keen interest in bolstering enduring partnerships with Aktau, particularly in economy, tourism, and cultural and humanitarian ties. In this context, the Ambassador in agreement with the head of Kazakhstan's Mangystau region government Nurlan Nogaev invited the delegation of Piraeus to Aktau soon. Piraeus, the fourth largest European port following Rotterdam, Hamburg, and Antwerp, is a pivotal hub for international transportation in the Mediterranean. In 2022, it managed approximately 4.35 million TEU of sea containers and boasts a storage area spanning 180,000 m2 with an annual throughput capacity of 25 million tons. Additionally, Piraeus serves as Greece's primary passenger port, catering to nearly 18 million passengers annually. The Middle Corridor connects the container rail freight systems of China and the European Union via Central Asia, the Caucasus, Turkiye, and Eastern Europe. A multilateral multimodal transport infrastructure connects Caspian and Black Seas ferry terminals with the railway networks of China, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkiye, Ukraine, and Poland. The Middle Corridor supports greater cargo movement from China to Turkiye and onward to European nations, as well as in the opposite direction. A route train along this corridor delivers cargo from China to Europe in an average of 20-25 days, which is one of the main advantages of this transport corridor. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Thursday, February 8, 2024 American actor, Kevin Spacey will pay $1million to the makers of House of Cards to settle claims he harassed young staffers on the show. MRC, the production company behind the show, dropped Spacey from the final season of House of Cards in 2017 and tried to recoup the costs for scrapping the final season and replacing him. An arbitrator deemed the allegations by the young show employees credible and Spacey, who has always denied the allegations, faced a $31million judgment in the case. But MRC and Spacey have now reached a settlement, which will see the actor pay only $1million (791,000) - in installments equal to 10 percent of his after-tax income - to the company over the next few years instead of the $36million he owed including interest, Puck reported. In return, Spacey will help MRC in their attempt to recoup the costs from its insurance company. MRC previously sued Fireman's Fund and Lloyd's of London, saying that Spacey's absence from House of Cards was covered under the cast insurance policies, which usually protect production companies if an actor gets too sick to perform. But the lawsuit was thrown out twice last year since the judge did not believe Spacey allegedly checking himself into a treatment facility for addiction qualified as a claim under the policy. 'The court is left with the conclusion that these policies just do not insure against this particular risk, and that neither party was really contemplating coverage for this sort of thing at the time the policies were signed,' Judge Mark Epstein said at the time, according to Variety. Friday, February 9, 2024 - Bomachoge Borabu Member of Parliament, Barango Obadiah, has proposed a bill that seeks to introduce CCTV cameras on our roads and do away with traffic police officers. Speaking on Friday, Obadiah said the bill Bribery (Amendment) Bill, 2023, will help the state in fighting corruption in the police service. During the bill's review by the Budget and Appropriations Committee, Barango stated: "The purpose of the bill is to amend the Bribery Act, 2016 by inserting a new section 10(A), which highlights anti-bribery measures for the National Police Service." "These measures include ensuring that CCTV cameras at designated traffic areas are maintained, commissioning police uniforms without pockets, taking action against an officer accepting a bribe in the designated area, and coordinating CCTV cameras in all areas where traffic police are stationed, The bill comes at a time when Kenya Police officers are ranked as the most corrupt police officers in the world. The Kenyan DAILY POST Friday, February 9, 2024 - The lawyer of murder suspect, Kevin Kangethe, has urged officers from Muthaiga Police Station to produce his client, who is said to have escaped from the facility on Wednesday. Kangethe is suspected of having killed his girlfriend, Margaret Mbitu, and leaving her body in a car parked at a Boston Airport in Massachusetts. However, in a surprise twist, Kangethe escaped at the highly guarded police station and already police have been accused of being involved in the escape. On Friday, Kangethe's lawyer, Mohamed Amin Ahmed, moved to court and urged police to produce his client since he might be in danger. "We don't know who took him. "We are fearing for his life. "The court should not assume he escaped lawful custody until we have clear evidence from the officers at Muthaiga Police Station," the lawyer said. The Kenyan DAILY POST Friday, February 9, 2024 - Nairobi County Governor, Johnson Sakaja, has laughed off claims that Embakasi East Member of Parliament, Babu Owino, is planning to dislodge him as a governor in 2027. According to Babu, Sakaja has been mishandling the city, and there is supposed corruption and maladministration characterising his tenure. But while speaking on Radio Jambo on Friday, Sakaja dismissed any chances of the MP to rout him in the elections. The governor faulted the lawmaker for shifting focus to early politicking at the expense of serving his constituents. "He cannot win in 2027. People in Nairobi are smart enough and they know in whose hands the county will be safe," he said. Babu is hoping to oust Sakaja who is accused of being corrupt and using Nairobi taxpayers' money to buy apartments in Runda, South Africa, and Dubai. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Friday, February 9, 2024 - Saboti MP Caleb Amisi has blasted President William Rutos daughter, Charlene, for calling Kenyan youth lazy. Venting on X, Amisi said the Kenyan youth are not lazy, saying it is Ruto, who has failed to create an enabling environment for them to showcase their capabilities. Charlene Ruto, our Kenyan youths are not lazy. "The Kenya government is too lazy to create an enabling environment for youths to showcase their ability and capability, Amisi stated. The ODM MP challenged Charlene to give one youth an opportunity and weigh the capabilities. Kenyans are the most hardworking human beings, give one youth a job opportunity, and let's weigh their lazinometer, Amisi added. The First Daughter while speaking to Citizen TVs Kenyas Gold show on Wednesday, stated that the countrys employment crisis can be solved by the youth creating opportunities for themselves. Charlene revealed that she has received numerous resumes from the youth who are looking for job opportunities. The best thing we can do for our young people is create opportunities for them. "Id like to call on our young people, lets not sit and be lazy. "You are passionate about something, dont give up on that. Reach out to us, give us your idea, Charlene stated. I give a listening ear to somebody who has already started something other than somebody who is like give me a job. Which job? "Where am I going to get the job from? she added. The Kenyan DAILY POST Friday, February 9, 2024 Vladimir Putin in a sweeping new interview with former Fox News host, Tucker Carlson published on Friday morning, February 9 said he believed an agreement can be reached to free imprisoned US journalist Evan Gershkovich, suggesting he would swap him for a Russian assassin serving a life sentence in Germany. Russias president compared Gershkovichs imprisonment in Moscow to a person serving a sentence in an allied country of the US, a likely reference to Vadim Krasikov, who killed a former Chechen rebel Zelimkhan Khangoshvili in Berlins Tiergarten park in 2019. In the last one year, US officials have said Russia has raised his case in prisoner swap negotiations. Putin appeared to hint that Krasikov, who German prosecutors have said likely carried out the hit for Russias FSB security service, was acting on Moscows orders, despite earlier denials. There was a patriot who eliminated [Khangoshvili] in one of the European capitals. Whether he did it of his own volition or not. That is a different question, Putin said. His comments came in an interview in the Kremlin with Tucker Carlson, the first interview Putin has given to western media since ordering the invasion of Ukraine two years ago. They were the most concrete description yet of Russias conditions to release Gershkovich, a 32-year-old Wall Street Journal reporter who has been jailed for almost a year on espionage charges. The US government and the paper reject the charges and describe them as completely false. I do not rule out that the person you refer to, Mr Gershkovich, may return to his motherland, Putin said. We want the US special services to think about how they can contribute to achieving the goals our special services are pursuing. The Wall Street Journal responding the claims on Friday morning, said; Evan is a journalist, and journalism is not a crime. Any portrayal to the contrary is total fiction. Evan was unjustly arrested and has been wrongfully detained by Russia for nearly a year for doing his job, and we continue to demand his immediate release. Were encouraged to see Russias desire for a deal that brings Evan home, and we hope this will lead to his rapid release and return to his family and our newsroom. Gershkovich was detained by Russias FSB in March 2023 while he was on a reporting assignment in the city of Ekaterinburg. At the time of his arrest, he had press credentials from Russias foreign ministry. Russian state media had promoted the interview ever since Carlson, who has become a star in Russia after making sympathetic comments about Putin, was first spotted at the Bolshoi ballet earlier this week. The Kremlin said Carlson had secured the interview because his stance was different from traditional Anglo-Saxon media it claims are biased against Russia. By Azernews Elnur Enveroglu The process of peace negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan is still being delayed, with various excuses from Yerevan. This time, the Armenian authorities, unable to make a firm decision, accuse Azerbaijan with false statements. Yesterday, Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan's fiery speech created paradoxical ideas on the agenda again. Mirzoyan, in his speech full of prejudice, described Azerbaijan as an aggressor and also used the so-called Nagorno-Karabakh expression to demonstrate his separatist position. Lets once again remind that the fact that the Prime Minister of Armenia does not recognize the so-called separatist regime in Garabagh and that Yerevan bears no responsibility in this matter contradicts the views of the head of the Foreign Ministry today. First of all, the leadership of Armenia has officially recognized the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan several times before and that Karabakh is the territory of Azerbaijan. Today, MFA head Mirzoyan's allegation of expulsion of 100,000 Armenians absolutely does not correspond to any facts. First of all, after the successful anti-terrorist measures in Garabagh in September, a group of Armenians left the region in order to avoid criminal responsibility and to avoid being accused of participating in the illegal military operations. In addition, many Armenians who have no connection with Garabagh and were not ethnically born in Azerbaijan, knowingly left the territory of Azerbaijan on their own volition. Most importantly, Azerbaijan created an opportunity for them to leave the area safely. Only in 2020, Azerbaijan conducted military operations to prevent the invasion of Armenia during the 44-day war. In addition, although the occupation ended, the provocations of the Armenian separatists in Garabagh continued until September 19, 2023. Only after the last anti-terrorist measures, separatist groups were prevented in Garabagh. It is significant to note that no civilians were harmed in the anti-terrorist measures on September 19. Armenia and many international organizations have also acknowledged this. Ararat Mirzoyan's statement on behalf of the Yerevan administration confirms Armenia's support for separatism. In such a case, there can be no talk of any peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia. In general, such a trend, which continues in Armenia, has become practical. This seems to be continued in an alternate way - so when the Armenian side talks about peace, separatist Armenian groups in the West start to launch anti-Azerbaijan propagandas - or vice versa. This proves once again that the Armenian authorities, inspired by foreign influences, alternately continue their joint activities to obstruct the peace process. This step once again calls into question the authority of Yerevan. On the other hand, the snap presidential elections held in Azerbaijan also had a significant impact. Thus, the Western forces, which are trying to boycott the elections and calling them fake, have put forward Yerevan because they are currently deprived of all opportunities. Until then, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and his entourage presented themselves as supporters of peace. Currently, the changing realities have forced Armenia to take more radical and biased steps. BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, February 9. Kyrgyzstan exported 79,937 tons of oil products to Turkiye from January through November 2023, which is a 13-percent decrease compared to the same months in 2022 (91,868 tons), Trend reports. Data from Kyrgyzstans National Statistical Committee reveals that the total value of these exports amounted to $51.632 million, which is a 15.3 percent decline compared to the period from January through November 2022 ($60.954 million). Turkiye emerged as the largest buyer of oil products from Kyrgyzstan, accounting for 46 percent of the countrys total oil product exports. In the list of countries receiving Kyrgyzstan's oil product exports, Uzbekistan secured the second spot, importing 62,291 tons valued at $16.959 million. Kyrgyzstan exported 173,355 tons of oil products from January through November 2023, which is an 11.3-percent decrease compared to the same period in 2022 (195,414 tons). Friday, February 9, 2024 - Murder suspect, Jowie Irungu, was spotted seeking God's guidance and favour ahead of a court ruling that will determine whether he killed businesswoman, Monica Kimani. Jowie and former Citizen TV journalist, Jackie Maribe, are accused of killing Monica at her Kilimani apartment in 2018. Jowie took to his Instagram page to share a video of Brenden Praise's song that talked about God remembering him when he felt lost. Part of the lyrics of the song said: "God, when I feel lost, I just remember what you have done before. " And I know that you can do it again. And even if you don't, you remain the same." Milimani High Court Judge Grace Nzioka has already ruled that there is no doubt that Jowie was involved in the killing of the businessman in 2018. The Judge is yet to implicate Maribe as an accessory to the murder. The Kenyan DAILY POST Friday, February 9, 2024 - The Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) has put President William Ruto to shame and complicated his nefarious plans to sell the facility. This is after it generated a whopping Ksh1.07 billion in revenue between July to December 2023 amid privatization plans. In a statement, Tourism Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua noted that the revenue generated in the six months was monumental given that KICC had a set target of Ksh500 million for the same period. Mutua made the revelation after convening a board meeting to discuss the financial status of the entity and its management operations. Notably, the revenue generated was credited to the numerous conferences held at the facility within six months. Notably, President William Ruto hosted the African Climate Summit at the venue between September 3-6, 2023. The event was attended by over 10,000 international delegates including presidents and heads of government. Additionally, KICC also generated rent given that several lawmakers have offices at the 105-meter-high building. On the other hand, Mutua indicated that the government had earmarked a strategic partner who would be onboarded to help revamp its operations. However, the CS did not explain if the strategic partner was part of the government's privatisation plan. KICC was among the government corporations that were listed for privatization by the Treasury in 2023. At the time, the Treasury explained that privatisation would make it competitive and reduce its reliance on the government for funding through the exchequer. However, there was an uproar among Kenyans over the privatisation plans given that KICC is a national monument. Ruto had alleged that KICC makes a paltry Ksh29 million a year and thats why he wants to sell. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Friday, February 9, 2024 A Lesbian woman has been ordered to let her ex-wife co-parent a baby conceived through IVF which both of them paid for. Nicole Junior, 43, filed a lawsuit claiming Chanel Glover, 41, forbade her from seeing the baby, conceived through a sperm donor and IVF - even though the exes split the $30,000 cost of the treatment equally. When Glover learned she was pregnant in January 2022 the couple, who lived together in Philadelphia and who are both trained attorneys, were excited about having a child together. Junior helped her wife with her daily injections and accompanied her to many of her doctor's appointments, the Philly Inquirer reported. They also co-signed documents and contracts from the sperm bank and the fertility clinic. Junior was the 'co-intended parent,' and 'second parent adoption', while also being established as legal guardian, according to court filings. The couple excitedly chose the baby's name, held a baby shower, and were anticipating the birth, until they had issues in their marriage. They sought help from a therapist, to draw up a 'healthy co-parenting plan,' in the event the pair got divorced, as per court papers. About five-and-half months into the pregnancy the relationship ended, with Junior moving out of their shared home to Seattle, where she was offered writing residencies. Glover was no longer working on the co-parenting documents, it is claimed. She allegedly contacted Junior to tell her she'd decided to not go forward with their initial plan of having the child together and now intended to be a single mother. 'My only concern was having a safe birth and being able to give birth to a healthy child,' Glover said. She said she felt 'relieved,' after telling her former partner of the decision, and soon filed for divorce. However, Junior was devastated. She felt that despite the collapse of their marriage, she believed she and Glover would still co-parent their child together. As part of the divorce case, Junior filed a petition in which she asked the court to recognize her as a parent. According to court testimony, Glover alleged that Junior was 'emotionally abusive, volatile and impulsive.' Junior denied those claims. In May 2022, the couple appeared at a hearing together in Family Court. Glover was close to her due date. The testimony between the couple was controversial, and the judge, Daniel Sulman, was unconvinced of Glover's claim of being a single parent, the Philly Inquirer reported. The judge noted that the child was not conceived during a one-night stand, but the couple had planned and prepared together before conception. He believed in this case, it was 'a lot more deliberate,' and ruled that Junior was a legal parent and should have access to their son and be named on his birth certificate. Glover appealed, it was reported. But weeks after the hearing, she had an emergency C-section. Their son was born healthy, but Junior did not learn about their child being born until she was sent flowers from her office on the baby's birth. The case went to the Pennsylvania Superior Court in August 2023. Due to the nature of the topic, nine judges were present to hear the case, known as an 'en banc.' In December 2023, Junior was told that the court ruled in her favor, and she was granted full co-parental rights. The judges said the key piece of evidence that convinced them to rule in Junior's favor was that she and Glover had clearly intended to co-parent. The legal terms is 'intent-based parentage.' In December 2023, Junior was told that the court ruled in her favor, and she was granted full co-parental rights. The judges said the key piece of evidence that convinced them to rule in Junior's favor was that she and Glover had clearly intended to co-parent. The legal terms is 'intent-based parentage.' 'The couple not only evidenced their mutual intent to conceive and raise the child, but they also participated jointly in the process of creating a new life,' the decision said. Helen Casale, a fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, who filed an amicus brief in Glover v. Junior, applauded the decision she referred to as a 'hot button' issue, and believes it will have an immediate impact on her other LGBT clients. Glover is distraught by the court's decision. She said: ' To say that someone can give money towards IVF and administer shots is enough to show intent my mom can make a claim. 'My mom was at the majority of my doctors appointments, majority of my sons pediatrician appointments. My mom has done more.' Glover has asked Pennsylvania's Supreme Court to overturn the earlier ruling. If that fails, custody hearings will begin. Junior has contested Glover's claims she is absent, saying she's only seen her son in a sonogram and that she's deeply unhappy to be missing the first moments of his life. Friday, February 9, 2024 Meta has suspended the Facebook and Instagram accounts of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei due to what the company calls repeated violations of its dangerous organizations and individuals policy. Meta has suspended the Facebook and Instagram accounts of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei due to what the company calls repeated violations of its dangerous organizations and individuals policy. Khamenei in the past has referred to Israel and Zionism as an obvious plague for the world of Islam. In 2020, Khamenei referred to Israel as a cancerous tumor that will undoubtedly be uprooted and destroyed. In the immediate aftermath of the Oct. 7 assault, Khamenei wrote on X: God willing, the cancer of the usurper Zionist regime will be eradicated at the hands of the Palestinian people and the Resistance forces throughout the region. Khamenei was kicked out from the popular social media platforms following his repeated calls to wipe Israel off the map. Iran is a sworn enemy of Israel, which has been engaged in warfare against Hamas after the Palestinian terrorist organizations October 7 assault which left nearly 1,200 people dead. Pro-Israel organizations have lobbied social media companies to remove Khameneis accounts. His Persian-language Instagram page had more than 5.1 million followers, while the English-language version had a following of more than 204,000. X, the company formerly known as Twitter, has thus far not deactivated Khameneis account. He has more than 1 million followers on the site. Facebook, Instagram and X are all blocked in Iran, but Khamenei reportedly keeps his accounts for audiences outside the country. Friday, February 9, 2024 It is now a matter of when and not if Kelvin Kangethe, the man who is wanted in the US for killing his girlfriend, a Kenyan nurse Margaret Mbitu, at a United States airport in November last year This is after Police officers located his whereabouts after escaping from Muthaiga Police Station. Police sources privy to the matter told the press that they traced Kang'ethe's phone signals to Machakos County and have narrowed the search to the Nairobi Metropolis area. The special team will seek to unearth Kang'ethe's trail and find individuals he contacted within the last 48 hours and also reach out to locals for information on the suspect's exact whereabouts. The police will also seek to establish any possible accomplices and identify how he sneaked out of the police station to Machakos County. Further, witnesses unearthed details of Kang'ethe's puzzling escape, explaining how he exited the station's gate without handcuffs and vanished into the traffic. According to a vendor who sells sweets a few metres from Muthaiga Police Station, the suspect was reportedly picked up by a vehicle that was trailing him as he ran east of the station, towards the National Youth Service barracks, located a few metres away. Another witness stated that he saw two men pursuing the suspect; one in police uniform while the other in civilian attire. After a while, he noticed that the duo both turned back and headed back to the station. The witness confirmed that no bullet was fired during the chase despite police standing orders allowing detectives to shoot a suspect who was fleeing lawful custody. The Kenyan DAILY POST Friday, February 9, 2024 - A special team has been formed to hunt down murder suspect Kevin Kangethe after he escaped from Muthaiga Police Station on Wednesday evening. Kangethe, who is wanted in connection with the murder of his girlfriend in the United States of America, was last traced in Machakos County. Detectives traced his phone signals to Machakos County hours after he made a daring escape and narrowed the search to the Nairobi Metropolis area. Detectives are seeking to establish any possible accomplices and identify how he sneaked out of the police station to Machakos County. According to witnesses, Kangethe exited the stations gate without handcuffs and vanished into the traffic. A vendor who sells sweets a few metres from Muthaiga Police Station said the suspect was reportedly picked up by a vehicle that was trailing him as he ran east of the station, towards the National Youth Service barracks, located a few metres away. The witness confirmed that no bullet was fired during the chase despite police standing orders allowing detectives to shoot a suspect who was fleeing lawful custody. Nairobi Police boss Adamson Bungei ordered the arrest of four police officers manning the station at the time of the escape alongside the suspect's alleged lawyer. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Friday, February 9, 2024 Declyn 'Dex' Lauper, the son of iconic pop star Cyndi Lauper, has been arrested in connection with criminal possession of a weapon and drugs in New York City. Dex, 26, was taken into custody after a shooting occurred in Harlem around 7:15 p.m. in the area near 135 W. 112th St., police told the New York Post, after a 24-year-old man was found shot in his leg near an apartment building. Authorities took Dex into custody as they were investigating the shooting of the man, who was subsequently taken to Mount Sinai Morningside Hospital, where he was listed in stable condition. Dex as of Thursday evening had been slated for an arraignment at Manhattan Criminal Court, according to the outlet. It was not immediately clear if Dex's arrest had any link to the shooting, officials told the outlet. The gun Dex had in his possession at the time of his arrest was loaded, ABC7 reported Thursday evening. Friday, February 9, 2024 It is beyond doubt that President William Ruto has lost substantial support on the ground due to his unfulfilled campaign promises. Even close allies of Ruto are now contemplating withdrawing their support for the president, especially after realizing that he has lost ground but remains unwilling to heed advice. A section of Kenya Kwanza allies believe that Ruto is unwell and losing it or simply just lives in his own weird world. This is after he lectured them like children, dismissing them as useless when they visited him with their concerns as well as telling him the reality on the ground. The lawmakers had sought to lobby for action on some of the issues affecting them on the ground like the continued lies by the government in the face of the high cost of living and increased taxation, but instead, they got a tongue-lashing from the president. Amidst this political turbulence, a new venture, KenyaOnlineCasino.com, has emerged as a beacon of entertainment for many Kenyans. As the premier Kenyan online casino, it offers a reprieve from the daily stresses, including those brought about by political and economic instability. With a variety of games and betting options, it's rapidly becoming a favorite pastime for those interested in gambling in Kenya. This platform not only provides an escape but also injects a sense of excitement and potential financial gain into the lives of its users, highlighting the growing trend of online gambling in the country. Many are now fellowshipping with Ruto just for political survival after it became apparent that they may not be re-elected in 2027 thanks to the president. The Kenyan DAILY POST Friday, February 9, 2024 - Kenyan-based companies will be required by law to keep a record of all individuals who directly or indirectly own or control a company lest they are fined Ksh2,000 and an extra Ksh100 every day throughout the default period This is according to the Anti-Money Laundering and Combating of Terrorism Financing Laws (Amendment) Act, 2023. The Act was signed into law by President William Ruto on September 1, 2023, binding every business to declare all its shareholders. Every company shall keep records of its beneficial owners information for at least ten years from the date which a person ceases to be a beneficial owner, the Act reads in part. The Act further dictates that apart from publicly listed companies, businesses must lodge with the Registrar a copy of any amendment to its register of beneficial owners within fourteen days of making the amendment For publicly listed companies, such amendments should be communicated to the Registrar of Companies within 30 days of enacting the changes. If a company fails to comply with the requirements, the company, and each officer of the company in default is liable to pay to the Registrar, an administrative penalty of Ksh2,0000, the Act warns. If the company continues to fail to comply the company, and each officer of the company in default, is liable to pay to the Registrar a further administrative penalty of Ksh100 for each day of default. Officers of the company must also keep records for 7 years after dissolution - removing the name of the business from the official register. Additionally, the Act dictates how the staffing of small and medium businesses should be conducted. As such, all companies with paid-up share capital of less than Ksh5 million must have a secretary, a local director, or a contact person who is a permanent resident in Kenya. The Act came into force on September 15, 2023. The Kenyan DAILY POST Friday, February 9, 2024 - United Democratic Alliance (UDA) blogger, Dennis Itumbi, is in a celebratory mood after former Citizen TV presenter, Jackie Maribe, was acquitted in the Monica Kimani murder case. Maribe was acquitted by Justice Grace Nzioka of the Milimani Law Courts on Friday, over lack of evidence. She is the second accused in a case that has been ongoing for over five years. According to Justice Nzioka, the charge brought against Maribe was not properly placed by the Police. "It is my considered view that the charge brought against the second accused person was not the proper charge," she said. Following her acquittal, Itumbi took to X and wrote a poem in praise of Maribe, who is not even his girlfriend. Here is what Dennis Itumbi wrote. Jacque Maribe is FREE! Maribe DID NOT kill Monica. Daaamn! I feel so vindicated! There was a rogue DCI boss called George Kinoti, who craved for headlines, and Jacque Maribe was a pawn in his unfortunate game of nonsensical play. It has been SIX years, a journey of shadows, where unjust chains sought to bind the spirit of a great friend, a charming personality, a friend I treasure much. Today, the truth has unveiled its brilliance, dispelling the darkness. The darkness of Kinoti's lies and outright script aimed for Media headlines and nothing else. Jacque Maribe, like a phoenix, now you have only one duty, rise from the ashes, for time may be lost, but not the essence of your being. As your friends, our collective hands extend to hold you as you take the next steps. My good friend, Welcome back to the embrace of freedom. Let the record reflect that you have always been INNOCENT. The system failed you and the rogue people who added you in this case just for headlines and creation of a circus should answer and you must not let them walk out of the mess without questions. I have no regrets that I stood by you. Xxx To Monica's family, beyond Justice, may Comfort fill your hearts. Xxx Jacqueline Maribe, there is a reason storms are named after women. Storms, like focused women cannot be stopped, you are a lovely storm! Be blessed, The Kenyan DAILY POST BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, February 9. Kyrgyzstan and Turkiye have agreed to continue their active work on transport corridors connecting the two countries, Trend reports. According to the Ministry of Transport of Turkiye, the issue was discussed during a meeting between Kyrgyz Minister of Transport and Communications Tilek Tekebaev and Turkish Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloglu in Ankara (Turkiye). The parties discussed current issues of cooperation between Kyrgyzstan and Turkiye in the transportation sector. The ministers also discussed simplifying the process of obtaining permits for international freight transportation and digitizing transportation links. Additionally, plans for exchanging expertise and providing technical support to the Kyrgyzstan Railways state enterprise were discussed. Meanwhile, trade turnover between Kyrgyzstan and Turkiye amounted to $560.472 million from January through November 2023, decreasing by 1 percent compared to the same period of 2022 ($566.661 million). Thursday, February 8, 2024 A clear majority of the US Supreme Courts nine justices signaled Thursday, February 8 that they would overturn a Colorado ruling barring former President Donald Trump from the states Republican presidential primary ballot. The former president, and his lawyers were appealing the December 19 decision by Colorados Supreme Court that found Trump ineligible for the March 5 GOP contest by virtue of violating the Constitutions so-called Insurrection Clause during the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot. Trumps team argued separately that Congress and not the states was tasked with enforcing the clause, that the provision did not apply to the office of president, and that the 45th president did not engage in an insurrection when hundreds of his allies stormed the Capitol and disrupted the certification of Joe Bidens 2020 election victory. The congressional supremacy argument found the most favor with the court, as Chief Justice John Roberts said during oral arguments that upholding the Colorado ruling would open the door to Republican and Democratic states removing politicians of opposing parties from the ballot due to political differences. Itll come down to just a handful of states that are going to decide the presidential election. Thats a pretty daunting consequence, Roberts said. Your Honor, the fact that there are potential frivolous applications of a constitutional provision isnt a reason, argued attorney Jason Murray, representing a group of Colorado voters who sought to remove Trump from the ballot. The question you have to confront, liberal Justice Elena Kagan told Murray at another point in his argument, is why one state should decide who gets to be president of the United States. Conservative Justice Samuel Alito asked Murray about a hypothetical in which candidates for diplomatic reasons think that its in the best interests of the US to send funds to a foreign nation who described Washington as its biggest enemy a clear reference to the Obama-Biden policy toward Iran. Could a state determine that that person has given aid and comfort to the enemy, and therefore keep that person off the ballot? he asked. Murray contended that a state could not because the Constitutions language defining treason is precise. I think we have to have faith in our system that people will follow their election process processes appropriately, Shannon Stevenson, Colorados solicitor general, replied when presented with a similar question from Alito during her argument. I dont think that this Court should take those threats too seriously, she added, noting that courts would probvide a safeguard in those scenarios. The clause in question, Section 3 of the Fourteenth Amendment, stipulates: No person shallhold any office, civil or military, under the United States[who] shall have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same, or given aid or comfort to the enemies thereof. The clause also allows Congress to remove that disability and allow violators back on the ballot. Some of Trumps allies in Congress have proposed legislation this week formally declaring he did not take part in insurrection. Liberal justice, Sonia Sotomayor seemed most skeptical of the pro-Trump argument that Congress was the main enforcer of the clause, noting that the Constitution requires a two-thirds majority to remove a disqualification, while Trump attorney Jonathan Mitchell appeared to indicate it would need a simple majority to impose one. While pointing to the history of states disqualifying candidates, Sotomayor asked whether Mitchell was laying the groundwork for Trump to flout the constitutional requirement that he only serve up to eight years in office. Are you setting it up so that if some President runs for a third term, that a state cant disqualify him from the ballot? asked the New York jurist. The Colorado Supreme Court has already ruled that Trump incited the Capitol riot and isnt eligible to be president again, and as a result, should not be on the states primary ballot on March 5. Trumps attorney Jonathan Mitchell argued that Congress is tasked with enforcing the disqualification clause, not the states that run elections. In response to Justice Brett Kavanaugh, Mitchell conceded he would accept the removal of a candidate from the ballot if they were convicted of insurrection. The only caveat I would add is that our client is arguing that he has presidential immunity. So, we would not concede that he can be prosecuted for what he did on January 6th, Mitchell said. What we said in our opening brief was President Trump did not engage in any act that can plausibly be characterized as insurrection, Mitchell later told Justice Jackson. For an insurrection, there needs to be an organized concerted effort to overthrow the government of the United States through violence. This was a riot. It was not an insurrection. Mitchell further contended that the disqualification clause doesnt specifically list the president as one of the offices under its purview. The President and the Vice President are not specifically listed, he argued. Thats why were still making the argument that the presidency is excluded from the covered offices that are listed at the beginning. Jackson raised concerns about why the president wasnt listed in the Disqualification Clause during her questioning of Murray. Why didnt they put the word president in the very enumerated list in section three? she asked. Doesnt that at least suggest ambiguity? Murray countered that the clause covered the president because it used the phrase, officer of the United States. Trumps main argument is that this Court should create a special exemption to section three that would apply to him and to him alone, he argued. There is no possible rationale for such an exemption, and the court should reject the claim that the framers made an extraordinary mistake. Friday, February 9, 2024 - Milimani High Court Judge, Grace Nzioka, has said that the death of Monica Kimani is a clear case of homicide. Speaking on Friday as she read out an analysis on Monica's cause of death, Nzioka said the prosecution has proved that the death was unlawful. The Judge said the court relied on evidence from an examination by a doctor. "Dr. Njenga did not testify to any circumstances that would amount to excusable Homicide. "In cross-examination of the doctor by defence counsel, he stated that there was no evidence of strangulation nor a gun or bullet wound and there was nothing unusual in the pancreas, indicating that the blood that was oozing from the nostrils was because the throat was slit at the level of thyroid glands and clarified that the wound would not have been inflicted after death because a person does not bleed after death as it is the heart that causes the bleeding," Justice Nzioka said. "Pursuant to the evidence of this doctor, it is the finding of this court that the deceased did not die of an accidental or natural cause. "Therefore this is a clear case of homicide that falls outside the excusable homicides, And so, the finding of this court is that the prosecution has proved that the death was unlawful." The judgment had been adjourned twice, with the last adjournment, Maribe's advocate Katwa Kigen indicating to the court she was unwell. Jowie is the first accused person in the murder trial of Monica. He was charged alongside Jacque Maribe in 2018. The Kenyan DAILY POST Friday, February 9, 2024 - Kileleshwa Ward MCA, Robert Onyango Alai, has revealed why Russian President Vladimir Putin is better than President William Ruto. On Thursday evening, Putin had an exclusive interview with Conservative US Media Personality Tucker Carlson and those who watched the interview said the Russian strongman was articulate, brilliant, and knows the history of his country. Alai, who was among Kenyans who praised the Russian president, said Putin was well grounded unlike President William Ruto, who doesnt know the history of Kenya and that is why he is unable to solve challenges facing the country. Putin is well grounded. Now you see why a President must always be a very good student of history and well-read. We have a Kenyan President whose greatest weakness is that he doesnt like to read nor study history. So he cant solve some problems because he doesnt have a proper understanding of the challenges, Alai wrote on X The Kenyan DAILY POST Friday, February 9, 2024 - The United Nations (UN) has broken its silence over the multinational police force mission to Haiti after the High Court blocked President William Ruto from deploying the National Police Service (NPS) to the troubled Caribbean country. Addressing the media over the UN's stand on the matter, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General, Stephane Dujarric, stated that the UN would support any multinational force that will be formed to address the humanitarian crisis in Haiti. Dujarric elaborated that a force urgently needs to be deployed to Haiti owing to the humanitarian crisis. However, he acknowledged that Kenya was still in talks with Haiti over the potential police deployment. Kenya has yet to give a clear way forward amidst an appeal against the High Court decision. "We understand there are discussions between Haiti and Kenya. All these discussions are not going on through the UN, because its not a UN peacekeeping force. "There is a trust fund that was set up as part of the resolution. We hope to support whatever multinational force comes into being, and we hope that donors give generously so the force can be deployed as quickly as possible," he stated. High Court Judge Chacha Mwita on January 26, declared the deployment of police to Haiti unconstitutional. The judge noted that the National Security Council (NSC) did not have powers to deploy police outside Kenya. However, amidst the government's discontent over the court ruling, senior government officials have been seeking assistance from development partners over the police deployment. The Kenyan DAILY POST Friday, February 9, 2024 An Ecuadorian councilwoman was executed in broad daylight in front of a crowd of people just moments after she finished a meeting. Diana Carnero, 29, was chairing the council meeting in the town of Naranjal in Guayas on Wednesday afternoon, Feb. 7, and recording a video about the poor road conditions when she was attacked. Two male suspects approached her on a motorcycle and shot her in the head before fleeing, police said. Ecuador's Attorney General's Office said it would be leading the investigation but so far there have been no arrests. Ecuador is in the grips of a crime wave tied to drug trafficking gangs. Just last year, a presidential candidate was assassinated in Ecuador. Other Ecuadorian politicians have also been recently executed. Two weeks ago President Daniel Noboa declared an emergency and a virtual war on the gangs by authorising the military to act against them. Many people are staying at home and schools and stores have been shuttered as soldiers patrol the streets of Ecuadors biggest cities. Carnero ran under the Citizen Revolution Movement, the democratic socialist political party that was formed by backers of former President Rafael Correa and was elected to the Naranjal city council in February 2023. Correa, who served as president from 2007 to 2017, paid tribute to Carnero on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. He wrote: "Diana was 29 years old. This is a nightmare. A hug to her family and all of Naranjal. When you have children of that age, you understand what their parents must be suffering. They cut short the life of a promise for Naranjal and the Homeland. What a disgrace!" Guayaquil deputy mayor Blanca Lopez also wrote on X, saying: "This must end, wanting better days for our cantons, provinces and country cannot mean putting our lives at risk." Carnero's assassination came just one day after Guayas Governor Alberto Molina met with law enforcement in Naranjal to address the recent wave of violence. Councilman Charbel Rouhana, 50, was shot dead in front of his home in the coastal town of Yaguachi on October 24, 2023. Bolivar Vera, 42, a councilman in Duran, was found dead on September 8, a day after he was abducted. In August, presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio, 59, was assassinated after leaving a campaign event in Quito. In July, the mayor of Manta, Agustin Intriago, 38, was shot dead while inspecting works. Thursday, February 8, 2024 President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced the dismissal of Ukraines top commander, General Valerii Zaluzhnyi, in the biggest military shakeup since the start of Russias full-scale war almost two years ago. Zelensky's move follows tensions between Zelensky and his hugely popular military chief after the failure of Ukraines much-anticipated counteroffensive. The move also comes as Ukraine faces a renewed Russian offensive, manpower and ammunition shortages, and much needed US military aid stalled in Congress. In a Telegram post sent shortly before the announcement, Zelensky said he held a meeting with Zaluzhnyi, and discussed what kind of renewal the Armed Forces of Ukraine need. The time for such a renewal is now, Zelensky wrote. Zaluzhnyis replacement will be Oleksandr Syrskyi, who since 2019 has served as the Commander of Ukrainian Land Forces. Zaluzhnyi wrote on his Telegram channel on Thursday that the tasks of 2022 are different from those of 2024. Therefore, everyone must change and adapt to the new realities as well. [We] have just met with the Supreme Commander-in-Chief. It was an important and serious conversation. It was decided that we need to change our approaches and strategy. Rumors of Zaluzhnyis dismissal began growing around Kyiv last week after he was called to a meeting at the presidents office and told he was being fired. Zelenskys office initially denied the rumors, but the move was confirmed on Thursday. Zaluzhnyi who had been appointed army chief by Zelensky in July 2021 was offered a new position by the president, which he turned down. As at press time, it remains unclear whether Zaluzhnyi has decided to remain involved with the military in some capacity. Differences between the two men has existed for a while as polls say the army chief is the second most popular man in Ukraine after Zelensky and could contest the presidential elections against Zelensky soon. The tensions appeared to grow wider towards the end of last year, after Zaluzhnyi said the war had reached a stalemate in a long essay and interview in The Economist magazine in November. He warned that without a great technological leap forward there will most likely be no deep and beautiful breakthrough, but instead an equilibrium of devastating losses and destruction. His remarks drew immediate criticism from Zelenskys office, which said such commentary about the war only benefitted Russia. Also recently, the two leaders clashed over whether Ukraine needed a mass mobilization effort. The army chief had suggested up to half a million draftees were required, which Zelensky resisted. The president told a press conference in December that mobilization was a highly sensitive issue and that he wanted to hear more arguments in favor before he felt fully ready to back the move. This is a very serious number, Zelensky said. It is a question about people, about justice, about defense capabilities. It is also a financial question. When Russia launched its invasion in February 2022, many of Ukraines allies feared Kyiv would fall in just a few days and the rest of the country within weeks. But Ukraines troops, under Zaluzhnyis direction, were able to drive Moscows forces from the capital and later in the year managed to reclaim large parts of the southern and eastern territories occupied by Russia in the early weeks of the war. Ukraine had hoped to drive Moscows forces back further in 2023 but battlefield success proved elusive. The counteroffensive launched last June, aimed to push south towards the Sea of Azov, splitting Russias forces in two and cutting its land bridge to Crimea. But Ukraines forces attempted to advance from Orikhiv towards Tokmak, but only made it as far as Robotyne, a little over 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) south. Russia still occupies around a fifth of Ukraines territory. Zaluzhnyi will now be replaced by the 59-year-old Syrskyi, who began his soldiering career during the last years of the Soviet Union, training in Moscow. Theres no place like home when it comes to health care, except for those who fall through the cracks 8 Shares Share Maria (name changed to protect patient privacy) is a brilliant woman with a troubled health history. After a mental health diagnosis cut short her career as a high-level government official, Maria has struggled with diabetes, peripheral neuropathy, depression, and advanced kidney disease, leading to a series of toe amputations and a decade of disability. She lives alone, about a half-hour from the nearest hospital, where she has been in and out of the complex wound clinic for more than eight years. After wounds in both of her heels took a bad turn, she spent time in the hospital followed by 30 days in a skilled nursing facility (SNF) and 30 days only. Despite still needing significant care, being unable to walk on her own, and contracting COVID, her health plan called time on her coverage and sent her home a crucial misstep that set her up for failure. Because thats where things got even tougher for Maria. Home health care should have been her next option, and it should have been arranged before her discharge. But even after calling a staggering 34 local agencies, her care team couldnt find a provider able to meet her needs. Maria needed her bandages changed three times a week, and none of the agencies could take on the support she needed. They didnt have the staff, they said, and were especially reluctant to work with Maria since she doesnt have a caregiver at home who can learn how to perform the wound care recommended by her care team. Instead, they suggested she should make the drive to the clinic three times a week to get her bandages taken care of. Transportation might have been available through a local agency, but there were no guarantees. Unable to properly care for herself, Marias condition worsened. She was readmitted from the emergency department, the most costly location for patient care. Her care team was forced to discuss amputating both her lower extremities below the knee a circumstance that would dramatically increase her likelihood of dying within the next five years. Marias story is deeply tragic and should have been preventable. While standardized pathways and established protocols can adequately assist those in the bulk of the chronic disease bell curve, health plans simply cannot afford to limit themselves to one-size-fits-all services that do not account for socioeconomic complexities, poor transitions of care, and unaligned coverage decisions. After all, the top 5 percent of medically complex patients, including those with concurrent socioeconomic barriers to care, incur approximately three-quarters of all home and hospital spending, as well as 50 percent of prescription drug costs. Maria will likely be facing challenges related to this series of events for the rest of her life. But its not too late for health plans, particularly in the Medicare Advantage space, to take the right steps to avoid similar situations for thousands of other people like Maria who are at risk of falling through the cracks. Provide enhanced care navigation for high-risk individuals during transitions. Transitions of care are natural weak points in the chain of care coordination, often leading to medication errors, insufficient discharge instructions for patients, inadequate follow-up from providers and $12 billion per year in potentially preventable spending on bounce-back admissions to the hospital. Patients with complex health and socioeconomic needs, like Maria, suffer most from rocky transitions, with significantly reduced odds of completing follow-up when experiencing transportation issues or living alone. Payors need to accelerate the use of predictive analytics and risk stratification tools to identify people at elevated risk of experiencing a gap in care or a preventable readmission. When flagged as high-risk, members should be paired with experienced, clinically informed care navigators who are dedicated to the members case across all care settings, including the home. Care navigators should also be empowered to work with health systems, health plans, and community-based organizations to connect members with resources that proactively address socioeconomic barriers. Develop flexible, personalized coverage determinations with a holistic mindset. During her second return stay in the hospital (a 30-day readmission that likely cost her Medicare Advantage plan on their Star Ratings), Maria ended up spending 11 unnecessary, very costly days in the inpatient setting waiting on her next move. This short-term thinking on coverage determinations is detrimental to patients while also jamming up the flow of care in the hospital setting. While its true that SNF beds are just as scarce in some communities, patients with extremely complex needs must have more options than simply being told to do their best at home. Health plans should consider working with local health systems, SNFs, physicians, and home health agencies to better understand how members move through their care journeys and create a more flexible coverage decision tree with contingency options when a member presents with an out-of-the-ordinary situation. Work with home health agencies to ensure the availability of resources. Maria is among the 27 percent of seniors who live alone in the United States, which means her inability to secure home care due to the lack of a live-in caregiver is not an outlier. Instead of penalizing her for not having a caregiver available, she should have received extra attention from the dozens of home health agencies that turned her away. Understaffing at home health agencies is a serious issue that cannot be solved by any single health care stakeholder. But health plans can do their part by contracting with high-quality, patient-focused agencies with a track record of success with complex chronic disease care. Actively choosing to work with agencies that can meet the needs of people living alone or with partners who do not have the capacity to provide adequate care will be essential as the population ages and the loneliness crisis deepens. Maria experienced a perfect storm of failures from the entities that were supposed to provide care and support at a difficult time in her life. While she is currently recovering from her wounds and may be able to avoid extensive amputations, she is also exploring legal action against some of the stakeholders who let her down. Health plans are in a uniquely powerful position to lead the way toward a more coordinated, person-centered, holistic chronic disease management environment. By working closely with SNFs, health systems, physicians, and home health agencies to close the gaps and create a community of care around complex patients, plans can make certain that patients like Maria are more likely to have better experiences and better outcomes. Gary Marc Rothenberg is a podiatrist. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov responds to Blinken's concerns about the foreign agents bill, Trend reports, referring to the Kyrgyz Foreign Ministry. The Kyrgyz Foreign Ministry has delivered a response letter from President Sadyr Japarov to U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, addressing internal matters. "Kyrgyz Foreign Minister Jeenbek Kulubaev met with US Ambassador to the Kyrgyzstan Lesslie Viguerie to deliver President Sadyr Japarov 's response to Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, providing reasoned explanations regarding the country's domestic political situation and democratic processes," the press service of the Kyrgyz Foreign Ministry said. Previously, Blinken penned a letter to Japarov expressing apprehension regarding the pending foreign agents bill. "I am reaching out to express my concerns about the draft law on foreign agents being considered by the parliament, particularly given the strength of Kyrgyzstan's active civil society, which has long been a cornerstone of democracy in the region," the letter reads. Blinken highlighted that, as it stands, this law puts at risk Kyrgyz citizens' access to essential services, including healthcare and education, provided by NGOs supported by the US government and international partners. "Certain U.S. implementing partners are deeply troubled by this law, contemplating pausing their operations in Kyrgyzstan as a precautionary measure," the US Secretary of State writes. Kyrgyz parliamentary deputies, led by Nadira Narmatova, have introduced amendments to the law on non-profit organizations (NPOs) and the Criminal Code. Under the proposed amendments, NPOs receiving foreign funding and involved in political activities will be classified as "foreign agents" and listed in a special registry. Additionally, penalties, including fines and up to ten years of imprisonment, will be imposed on NPOs found to violate citizens' rights and freedoms. Deputies have already passed the draft law in the first reading, prompting condemnation from a number of international communities and organizations. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel The Attorney General, Mr. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, on Friday urged the Uganda Law Society (ULS) to operate within its designated mandate during the New Law Year opening ceremony in Kampala. Mr. Kiryowa referenced a recent, unauthorized ULS meeting attempting to discuss a letter sent by the President to the Chief Justice regarding ongoing disputes over Muslim properties. The lawyers called for a boycott of the Judiciarys New Law Year launch, citing concerns about judicial freedom. Kiryowa deemed such a meeting unnecessary, highlighting that judges cannot be summoned by lawyers under regular circumstances. He asked lawyers to understand their professional boundaries and advised that legal disputes should be addressed in courts, not on social media. Additionally, Mr. Kiryowa appealed to legal professionals to refrain from behaviors that could undermine the integrity of judges. He clarified that the Presidents letter to the Chief Justice served as a legitimate communication between branches of government, simply expressing concerns over a specific issue. If one is aggrieved by the decision of a judicial officer, your place is before the court whether you agree with it or not. What were you going to do? Summon a judiciary officer? That is wrong, Mr Kiryowa said He cautioned lawyers regarding professional conduct, suggesting that habits developed during legal practice might carry over to the bench when lawyers become judges. Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja announced during Thursdays parliamentary session that discussions on merging and abolishing government agencies with overlapping functions will begin next week. Updating Parliament on government business, Nabbanja confirmed the Executive will soon table relevant bills before the house. The process will commence with the introduction of rationalization bills for the sectors of Works and Transport, Natural Resources and Environment, Education, and Internal Affairs, among others. Additionally, the government intends to present several other bills, including the Constitutional Amendment Bill, the National Tribunal Bill 2023, the Uganda Health Professionals Regulatory Council Bill 2023, and the Karamoja Development Agency Repeal Bill 2024. The development follows last weeks resolution by the National Resistance Movement (NRM) parliamentary caucus to support the rationalization of government agencies. The Kabale Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Mr Ronald Bakak, has initiated fresh investigations into the mismanagement of funds meant for the Kabale Journalists Emyooga Sacco. He has given the alleged culprits a 30-day ultimatum to refund the misappropriated funds amounting to Shs 38 million or face the wrath of the law. In 2022, Kabale District Commercial Officer, Erasmus Natuhamya, presented an audit report highlighting significant mismanagement within the Kabale Journalists Emyooga Sacco. The report revealed a lack of clear financial records, including cash books, payment vouchers, and receipt books. Those who borrowed money and didnt pay back, they must pay within 30 days, said Bakak. Natuhamya also disclosed that the Saccos chairperson, Moses Henry Tahoreraho, allegedly admitted non-journalists into the Sacco and distributed loans without due consultation, a claim he has previously denied. As Uganda prepares to celebrate National Condom Day on February 13, the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Mr Thomas Tayebwa has directed the Minister of Health, Dr Jane Ruth Aceng to present a statement about the relevance of the day. He also tasked her to explain why some condoms are smaller in size, which he says increases the risk of spreading HIV/AIDs and other sexually transmitted diseases. That is a day I have never heard of being celebrated but I think Parliament is a platform which we use to inform the public and educate the public about these issues. SO honourable minister please issue a statement on this, Tayebwa said. In her response, the minister told parliament that the day is commemorated to sensitize the public on the importance of condoms and highlight their effectiveness in offering protection against HIV and other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). This years National Condom Day celebrations will be commemorated in Lyantonde district which is among the districts with high HIV/AIDS prevalence rate. ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, February 9. The Eurasian Patent Office (EAPO) is ready to expand cooperation with Turkmenistan in various fields , Trend reports. According to the EAPO, this desire was expressed by the President of the Eurasian Patent Organization Grigory Ivliev during a meeting in Moscow with the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Russia Esen Aydogdyyev. During the meeting, it was stressed that the organization intends to cooperate with Turkmenistan in expanding the dialogue between IT specialists, introducing 3D formats for filing applications, electronic document management and office management, as well as in creating a common expert information space in the long term. Ivliev expressed hope that Turkmenistan will join the Protocol to the Eurasian Patent Convention on the Protection of Industrial Designs in the near future. Furthermore, the parties also discussed topical issues of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the EAPO, noting that they have mutual benefits and prospects, and make a significant contribution to the development of interstate cooperation in the field of intellectual property protection, strengthening its legislative and practical basis. Meanwhile, the Eurasian Patent Organization (EAPO) is an international intergovernmental organization established to perform administrative tasks related to the functioning of the Eurasian patent system and the issuance of Eurasian patents for inventions and industrial designs. Stay up to date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Kildalton College, in south Kilkenny, is set to be the venue for some of the Agri Aware Farm Walk and Talk events for agri science students, again this year. The Teagasc college will host students on two days in March. Agri Awares popular Farm Walk and Talk series is back for 2024 with second level students studying agriculture science soon set to walk onto farms from Donegal down to Cork, and in Kilkenny. Kildalton College will host students on Thursday and Friday, March 21 and 22. After a successful 2023 where just under 4,000 students took part, Agri Aware is looking forward to meeting teachers and students once again on farms where the most modern, up-to-date research, technology and practices are implemented on. Over the years students have had memorable Farm Walk and Talk days, from observing milking, grading beef cattle, to attending sustainability and farm safety talks and even participating in the live lambing of sheep! Launching the series, Agri Aware Chairman Shay Galvin and Executive Director Marcus OHalloran were joined by partners of the series which include the Irish Farmers Journal, Teagasc and University College Dublin School of Agriculture and Food Science as well as students from St. Josephs Secondary in Rochfortbridge Co. Offaly. Students this year will once again receive a physical copy of the Agri Aware Farm Walk and Talk student notes booklet, which were very popular among students and teachers last year. Giving an insight into the importance of the Farm Walk and Talk series, Agri Aware Chairman Shay Galvin said: It is hugely important for agriculture science students to see first-hand the great work that goes on farms which imparts an appreciation for the work Irish farmers do to produce quality sustainable food 365 days of the year. It is vital we pass on the most up-to-date research and best practices to the next generation, as the students we will be meeting over the next few weeks will be the primary food producers, food scientists and leaders in the agriculture industry that we will be relying on to drive this industry forward. Agri Awares Farm Walk and Talk gives Leaving Certificate agricultural science students an insight and appreciation into the work involved in running a farm and the hard work that goes along with it in making it a successful viable enterprise. Farm Walk and Talk allows students to see the topics they learn about in action on a working farm. Students also have the opportunity to talk to industry experts and see developments in farming first-hand. Antarctic explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton will be honoured through the dedication of a memorial stone at Westminster Abbey next week. The memorial was made by sculptor Will Davies, who incorporated stones including Kilkenny limestone and Connemara marble to reflect Shackletons Irish heritage he was born in Kilkea, County Kildare, in 1874. It is also inscribed with the names of Shackletons expedition ships and his family motto, fortitudine vincimus by endurance we conquer. Shackletons first experience of the polar regions was as third officer on Captain Robert Falcon Scotts Discovery expedition of 19011904, from which he was sent home early on health grounds. In 1907, his Nimrod expedition aimed to be the first to reach the South Pole and although this was not achieved, it was the first expedition in history to travel within 100 miles of the South Pole and successfully ascend Mount Erebus, Antarcticas second highest volcano. Shackletons Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition of 1914-1917 hoped to achieve the first land crossing of Antarctica from the Weddell Sea via the South Pole to the Ross Sea. The expeditions ship, Endurance, became stuck in pack ice and sank in the Weddell Sea in 1915, and was lost until it was located by a British-led expedition in 2022, months after the 100th anniversary of Shackletons death. The survival of Shackletons crew despite the sinking of Endurance highlighted his exceptional leadership, Westminster Abbey said. During his lifetime, Shackleton was awarded the Polar Medal and is remembered as one of the key figures associated with the period known as the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration. The Dean of Westminster, David Hoyle, said the dedication on Thursday would help sustain Shackletons legacy of wonder. The stone will be located in the Abbeys south cloister, close to a memorial to pioneering sailors Captain James Cook, Sir Francis Chichester and Sir Francis Drake. Shackleton, who led three expeditions to the Antarctic, had helped create a new excitement about science and a deeper reverence for the world in which we live, according to the Very Reverend Hoyle, who will dedicate the memorial. He added: Shackletons name conjures up a little bit of an old and familiar narrative about a great man with remarkable courage and resilience. That is true but it does not do justice to his achievement. Shackleton was more than an explorer, he was a storyteller. A pioneer in photography and film and an inspiring speaker, he planted the idea and image of the Antarctic in our imaginations. Minister Roderic OGorman has told leading menopause consultant Catherine OKeeffe that the government has commissioned research to look at how best to support people in the workplace with menopausal symptoms. The Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth of Ireland was a guest on the popular podcast The Menopause Uprising', which is hosted by Catherine OKeeffe, otherwise known as the Wellness Warrior. Minister OGorman outlined that the research is part of the governments Womens Health Action plan, which also deals with issues such as supporting people going through IVF, and establishing legislation surrounding surrogacy. A Wellness Warrior Menopause and Your Work survey showed almost four fifths of people still believe menopause is a taboo in the workplace, while half would like an in-house support group with colleagues. The top symptoms listed by people having difficulty in work because of menopause were brain fog, anxiety, loss of confidence and insomnia. Speaking on the episode entitled Menopause Workplace Support, Minister OGorman explained the nature of the research currently underway: "Some of the issues that have come up in the course of our research are the need for basics in the workplace for people with menopausal symptoms, such as temperature control in an office, or having suitable material in a uniform. Other issues relate to the culture in a workplace - ensuring people are comfortable in going to their line manager to discuss their symptoms and needs. He told Catherine that progress has been made in the area of supporting menopausal women in the workplace, but more needs to be done: "A lot of companies in both the public and private sector are already taking steps towards supporting people going through menopause in the workplace. For now its about guidance, support, better information and setting out best practice in workplaces. I think we can achieve a lot for a large proportion of workers and employees through that. The conversation between Catherine OKeeffe and Minister OGorman on the Menopause Uprising podcast is now live, and can be accessed via www.wellnesswarrior.ie Kilkenny was the venue for a significant gathering of HSE healthcare professionals focused on psychology services this week. Organised by HSE/South East Community Healthcare (SECH), the occasion doubled as a research symposium for colleagues across psychology services in counties Carlow, Kilkenny, South Tipperary, Waterford and Wexford and as an official launch of a Trainee Psychologist Initiative between SECH and University College Dublin. SECH Psychology Services were joined on the day in the Springhill Hotel, Kilkenny by their partners on both the UCD Educational Psychology Clinical Psychology Doctoral Programmes. The HSE/South East Community Healthcare has a long history of working with UCD, specifically the Clinical Psychology Doctorate to support and fund a number of trainees. As part of this, all funded trainees have a HSE contract and the HSE also funds a large portion of the trainees university fees. SECH, in close collaboration with UCD, also provide a coordinated approach to the trainees placements that reflect each trainees individual learning needs as they evolve across the three-year programme. The result of this collaboration is highly qualified and highly skilled psychologists ready to work in the HSE once their training is complete. To date, there have been seven HSE/South East Community Healthcare (SECH) funded trainees on the National Trainee Psychologist Initiative (three funded via Disability Services and four via Primary Care). Following the launch of the National Trainee Psychologist Initiative and through collaboration with the UCD Educational Psychology Doctoral Programme, this will now increase by 15 additional funded trainees over the coming years. Five newly funded trainees have already commenced in September 2023 and UCD and SECH are currently working to select the next five trainees for September 2024. A further five will be commence in September 2025, bringing the overall total number of SECH funded trainees to 22. This is a tripling of the funded trainee places. The second part of the occasion in Kilkenny provided an opportunity for psychology services to share their expertise and interest in the area of research and its links to clinical practice. Through a variety of poster presentations and a number of speakers, SECH psychology services shared their research achievements across a wide range of research topics, demonstrating the importance of using research to inform clinical practice. In early 2023, each HSE region through their Chief Officer committed to a national increase in Psychology Trainees of 74% by September 2025, starting from September 2023. Minister Simon Harris has criticised the Department of Education for putting utterly unacceptable stress on families left without school places. He said the department needs to get much better at forward planning for identifiable population booms. The criticism comes after it was revealed that scores of students are receiving home tutoring due to a lack of places in oversubscribed schools. Mr Harris, who is the senior minister in the separate Department of Further Education, said this included children in his hometown of Greystones, Co Wicklow. He said: My view is that the Department of Education needs to get much better at planning and much better at forward projection. The stress and strain that they have placed on my friends, my neighbours and my constituents in Greystones, in my hometown, is utterly unacceptable. However, he said that Greystones Community College was able to commit additional school places on Friday morning after engagement with the Department of Education. Mr Harris said ongoing demographic changes mean certain identifiable towns in commuter belts will see massive population growth. He said schools are bursting at the seams waiting for extensions to be approved or for tenders to be awarded for the construction of new buildings. The minister said the department could take those actions quickly, adding: That would give schools the confidence to be able to assist the department in quite frankly a mess that is not of the schools making. Asked if Education Minister Norma Foley was failing to do enough on planning, Mr Harris said she was doing an excellent job. However, he added: There are units specifically within the department that do have a role in relation to the planning, projection, population and theyve gotten it wrong in relation to my hometown and Im not best pleased about it, nor are my constituents. There are 81 pupils nationally who are in receipt of home-tuition grants due to not having a school place while the Department of Education school placement solutions are being worked through. A Department of Education spokesman said it had invested heavily in school infrastructure in recent years in response to the increase in demand, in order to ensure that there is a school place for every child. He said the Department had invested 4.3 billion euro in school projects around the country since 2020. The spokesman said it uses a variety of sources to determine demand for school places, including enrolment figures, census statistics, child benefit data, and construction activity. He added that school placement requirements are very dynamic and can also involve students moving areas during the school year, including from overseas. The department said it provides home tuition as a short-term intervention in limited cases, but recognised it is not an alternative for a school placement. ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, February 9. A Spanish delegation will visit Turkmenistan in March this year to strengthen investment cooperation, Trend reports. According to the official source, the issues of preparing the visit were discussed in Moscow by the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Russia Esen Aydogdyyev and the Ambassador of Spain to Turkmenistan (with residence in Moscow) Marcos Gomez Martinez. During the meeting, it was noted that this delegation will include representatives of leading Spanish companies and organizations who will discuss with their Turkmen colleagues the introduction of advanced technologies and opportunities for the development of investment cooperation. Furthermore, the heads of diplomatic missions exchanged views on the progress and prospects for further development of bilateral cooperation in a number of key areas, including political and diplomatic, trade and economic, cultural and humanitarian spheres. They noted that such areas as investment activities, the introduction of modern technologies, and the training of highly qualified personnel are of interest in terms of establishing joint work and spoke about the need to create favorable conditions for their promotion and development. Meanwhile, Turkmenistan has demonstrated a growing openness to international companies and investments, actively seeking partnerships to drive economic growth and development. With a strategic focus on diversification and modernization of its economy, the country has implemented reforms to create a more favorable investment climate, offering incentives and opportunities for foreign businesses. Stay up to date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, February 9. Turkmenistan and Airbus company discussed the possibilities of cooperation in the space sector, Trend reports. According to the official source, these issues were discussed during a meeting between the Chairman of the Turkmen Transport and Communications (Turkmenaragatnashyk) Agency Hajymyrat Hudaygulyev, and a high-ranking delegation from Airbus, headed by Vice President for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, Jacques Garrigue. During the meeting, representatives of the company offered Turkmenistan remote monitoring and space photography services, which underlines the recognition of Turkmenistan's potential in the field of advanced space technologies. The Turkmen side noted that cooperation with Airbus opens up new opportunities for Turkmenistan in the space sector, adding that the development of the space industry is of great importance on a global scale, and Turkmenistan, which has proven its reliability as a partner of leading companies, is ready to actively use advanced technologies and promote space research at the regional and global levels. Meanwhile, cooperation between Airbus company and Turkmenistan extends to various fields, including aviation, the space industry and infrastructure projects. In general, Airbus provides Turkmenistan with advanced technologies and solutions in the field of aviation, such as modernization and renewal of the air fleet, as well as consulting on the development of airports and infrastructure projects. Stay up to date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, February 9. Uzbekistan and UK shared an opinion on the need to intensify inter-parliamentary dialog, Trend reports. This was discussed at a meeting between ambassador of Uzbekistan Ravshan Usmanov with representatives of the British Group in the Inter-parliamentary Union (BGIPU) - Labour Party MPs from the lower house of the UK Parliament, BGIPU Vice-Chairman Alex Sobel and Catherine West, and members of the House of Lords Godfrey Cromwell and Qurban Hussain. It was noted that strengthening Uzbek-UK inter-parliamentary dialog will create additional mechanisms for further realization of beneficial joint projects in areas of mutual interest. During the meeting, the participants of the meeting were informed about the large-scale reforms being carried out in New Uzbekistan in all spheres of society and state life, including the development of parliamentarism, ensuring human rights and freedom, as well as strengthening the role of civil society institutions. The UK MPs underscored the high dynamics of the ongoing democratic transformations in Uzbekistan, which they were able to see with their own eyes during the visit of BGIPU's delegation to the country on September 25-29, 2023. As a result of the meeting an agreement was reached to continue contacts to discuss practical steps to realize the existing significant potential to expand cooperation between the legislative bodies of the two countries. BGIPU is one of the founding members of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and makes all decisions on IPU matters on behalf of the UK Parliament, consulting with the parliaments of the various member countries. The BGIPU Executive Committee comprises 28 MPs from various parties and both Houses of Parliament. Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 10. It will take five years to build the Rasht-Astara railroad section linking land segments of the North-South International Corridor, Irans Deputy Minister of Roads and Urban Development Hairullah Hademi said, Trend reports. "Construction of the 162 km long missing segment can be completed within five years if financial resources are provided," the official said. Russia will provide funding for construction, he added. On May 17, 2023, Russia and Iran signed an agreement to build the Rasht-Astara railroad in Gilan province. The railroad will be 163 km long and have nine stations. This project will improve the North-South International Corridor and link Irans railway network to the Caucasus countries, Russia, and Northern Europe. Brookfield Asset Management Reinsurance Partners Ltd. (NYSE:BAMR Get Free Report) rose 2.6% during mid-day trading on Tuesday . The stock traded as high as $39.67 and last traded at $39.59. Approximately 8,039 shares were traded during trading, a decline of 62% from the average daily volume of 20,993 shares. The stock had previously closed at $38.59. Brookfield Asset Management Reinsurance Partners Stock Performance The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $38.72 and its 200 day simple moving average is $35.15. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23, a quick ratio of 0.28 and a current ratio of 0.28. Get Brookfield Asset Management Reinsurance Partners alerts: Hedge Funds Weigh In On Brookfield Asset Management Reinsurance Partners Several hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in BAMR. Lazard Asset Management LLC purchased a new position in Brookfield Asset Management Reinsurance Partners during the first quarter valued at approximately $33,000. Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank acquired a new stake in shares of Brookfield Asset Management Reinsurance Partners in the second quarter worth $60,000. UBS Group AG lifted its stake in shares of Brookfield Asset Management Reinsurance Partners by 14.3% in the third quarter. UBS Group AG now owns 2,854 shares of the companys stock worth $116,000 after buying an additional 358 shares during the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted its stake in shares of Brookfield Asset Management Reinsurance Partners by 149.0% in the first quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 3,302 shares of the companys stock worth $189,000 after buying an additional 1,976 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Credit Suisse AG lifted its stake in shares of Brookfield Asset Management Reinsurance Partners by 3.4% in the second quarter. Credit Suisse AG now owns 6,050 shares of the companys stock worth $269,000 after buying an additional 201 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 39.71% of the companys stock. About Brookfield Asset Management Reinsurance Partners Brookfield Asset Management Reinsurance Partners Ltd., through its subsidiaries, provides annuity-based reinsurance products to insurance and reinsurance companies. The company operates in two segments, Reinsurance and Pension Risk Transfer. It also acts as a direct issuer of pension risk transfer products for pension plan sponsors. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Brookfield Asset Management Reinsurance Partners Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Brookfield Asset Management Reinsurance Partners and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. nVent Electric (NYSE:NVT Get Free Report) updated its first quarter earnings guidance on Tuesday. The company provided earnings per share (EPS) guidance of $0.72-0.74 for the period, compared to the consensus estimate of $0.75. The company issued revenue guidance of ~$859.6-874.4 million, compared to the consensus revenue estimate of $868.38 million. nVent Electric also updated its FY 2024 guidance to 3.170-3.270 EPS. Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of research analysts recently weighed in on the stock. Royal Bank of Canada raised their target price on shares of nVent Electric from $65.00 to $72.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday. Citigroup lifted their price objective on shares of nVent Electric from $59.00 to $64.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Monday, December 11th. Finally, Barclays decreased their price objective on shares of nVent Electric from $67.00 to $65.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Monday, October 30th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and four have given a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $64.75. Get nVent Electric alerts: Get Our Latest Research Report on NVT nVent Electric Stock Performance Shares of NVT opened at $64.29 on Friday. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $58.13 and a 200-day moving average of $54.70. nVent Electric has a one year low of $40.00 and a one year high of $66.09. The company has a market cap of $10.67 billion, a PE ratio of 19.08 and a beta of 1.33. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.56, a current ratio of 1.82 and a quick ratio of 1.27. nVent Electric (NYSE:NVT Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Tuesday, February 6th. The company reported $0.78 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.75 by $0.03. The company had revenue of $861.20 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $866.90 million. nVent Electric had a net margin of 17.38% and a return on equity of 17.53%. nVent Electrics quarterly revenue was up 16.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $0.66 EPS. As a group, equities analysts forecast that nVent Electric will post 3.26 earnings per share for the current year. nVent Electric Increases Dividend The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, February 2nd. Stockholders of record on Friday, January 19th were paid a dividend of $0.19 per share. This represents a $0.76 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.18%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, January 18th. This is a boost from nVent Electrics previous quarterly dividend of $0.18. nVent Electrics dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 22.55%. Insider Transactions at nVent Electric In other news, insider Joseph A. Ruzynski sold 2,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, February 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $64.23, for a total transaction of $160,575.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 36,013 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,313,114.99. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. In other nVent Electric news, insider Joseph A. Ruzynski sold 2,500 shares of nVent Electric stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, February 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $64.23, for a total value of $160,575.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 36,013 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,313,114.99. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, insider Michael B. Faulconer sold 2,080 shares of nVent Electric stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, November 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $53.07, for a total transaction of $110,385.60. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 27,613 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,465,421.91. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 2.40% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Institutional Trading of nVent Electric Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Norges Bank acquired a new position in shares of nVent Electric in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $65,666,000. BlackRock Inc. raised its position in shares of nVent Electric by 3.2% in the 1st quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 14,459,036 shares of the companys stock valued at $502,885,000 after buying an additional 454,668 shares in the last quarter. Morgan Stanley raised its position in shares of nVent Electric by 56.5% in the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 1,255,381 shares of the companys stock valued at $48,295,000 after buying an additional 453,283 shares in the last quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership raised its position in shares of nVent Electric by 40.9% in the 1st quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 1,411,222 shares of the companys stock valued at $60,598,000 after buying an additional 409,929 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Millennium Management LLC raised its position in shares of nVent Electric by 44.5% in the 4th quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 1,054,592 shares of the companys stock valued at $40,570,000 after buying an additional 324,707 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 87.76% of the companys stock. nVent Electric Company Profile (Get Free Report) nVent Electric plc designs, manufactures, markets, installs, and services electrical connection and protection products worldwide. The company operates through three segments: Enclosures, Electrical & Fastening Solutions, and Thermal Management. The Enclosures segment provides solutions to connect and protect critical electronics, communication, control, and power equipment; physical infrastructure solutions to host, connect, and protect server and network equipment; indoor and outdoor protection for test and measurement and aerospace and defense applications in industrial, infrastructure, commercial, and energy verticals; and metallic and non-metallic enclosures, cabinets, sub racks, and backplanes. Read More Receive News & Ratings for nVent Electric Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for nVent Electric and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. TotalEnergies (NYSE:TTE Get Free Report) announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday. The company reported $2.16 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $2.43 by ($0.27), MarketWatch Earnings reports. TotalEnergies had a return on equity of 19.68% and a net margin of 9.19%. The business had revenue of $54.77 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $55.14 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $2.97 earnings per share. TotalEnergies Stock Up 1.8 % Shares of TTE stock opened at $64.20 on Friday. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $66.09 and its 200 day simple moving average is $65.15. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.35, a quick ratio of 0.91 and a current ratio of 1.15. TotalEnergies has a twelve month low of $54.94 and a twelve month high of $69.63. The company has a market capitalization of $157.58 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 7.40, a PEG ratio of 1.41 and a beta of 0.72. Get TotalEnergies alerts: TotalEnergies Cuts Dividend The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, April 15th. Investors of record on Tuesday, March 19th will be paid a $0.597 dividend. This represents a $2.39 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.72%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, March 18th. TotalEnergiess payout ratio is 27.57%. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Analyst Ratings Changes A number of institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in TTE. Fortis Capital Advisors LLC bought a new position in TotalEnergies in the 4th quarter worth approximately $32,000. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust increased its position in TotalEnergies by 40.5% in the 2nd quarter. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust now owns 579 shares of the companys stock worth $33,000 after buying an additional 167 shares during the period. Financial Freedom LLC bought a new position in TotalEnergies in the 4th quarter worth approximately $45,000. ICA Group Wealth Management LLC bought a new position in TotalEnergies in the 4th quarter worth approximately $53,000. Finally, First Manhattan Co. increased its position in TotalEnergies by 65.1% in the 4th quarter. First Manhattan Co. now owns 1,030 shares of the companys stock worth $64,000 after buying an additional 406 shares during the period. 6.53% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Separately, Jefferies Financial Group lowered TotalEnergies from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, November 29th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and one has assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $60.67. View Our Latest Stock Report on TTE TotalEnergies Company Profile (Get Free Report) TotalEnergies SE, a multi-energy company, produces and markets fuels, natural gas, and electricity in France, rest of Europe, North America, Africa, and internationally. It operates through Integrated Gas, Renewables & Power; Exploration & Production; Refining & Chemicals; and Marketing & Services segments. See Also Receive News & Ratings for TotalEnergies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for TotalEnergies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Kendallville, IN (46755) Today Snow showers. High near 35F. Winds NW 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 10 to 20 mph. Thank you for reading! Please purchase a subscription to read our premium content. If you have a subscription, please log in or sign up for an account on our website to continue. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 9. Russia and Iran, despite a strong growth of trade turnover in recent years, still have a huge potential of further expansion of cooperation and trade turnover in energy, transport, agriculture, construction and a number of other sectors, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak told reporters, Trend reports. "I think that we have a huge potential. Even despite the fact that we substantially increase trade turnover, while joint investment projects are being implemented, this potential is not depleted in almost all areas: in energy, transport, joint trade, agriculture, geological exploration, construction and public utility. Moreover, our business communities, the Russian-Iranian business council actively work (on expansion of cooperation - TASS) today," he said at a reception on the occasion of the 45th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution in Iran. Moscow expects the agreement on the creation of a free trade zone between the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and Iran signed in December 2023 to push the volume of trade turnover between the countries up substantially, Novak added. "Our absolute priority is further gradual increase in trade turnover volumes, which will be spurred by the free trade agreement between EAEU and Iran concluded last December on the sidelines of the meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Commission in St. Petersburg," he noted. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. New Murabba Development Company (NMDC), a subsidiary of Saudi sovereign wealth fund PIF (Public Investment Fund), showcased its world-leading vision for urban development at a key industry event held in Riyadh. The two-day Private Sector Forum was organised by Saudi sovereign wealth fund PIF (Public Investment Fund) at the King Abdulaziz Conference Centre. NMDCs participation at the event highlights its ambition to forge strong partnerships with key stakeholders, both existing and new, said senior officials. New Murabba's multi-faceted presence included an interactive exhibition booth with visual highlights of its ambitious plans for urban planning and development, with Executive Director, Delivery, Engineer Salman Alhubeis, sharing his views on the project's execution during a panel discussion. Michael Dyke, NMDCs Chief Executive Officer, led the attending delegation, actively engaging with stakeholders, including potential investors, and future partners. The forum presented a unique opportunity for New Murabba to demonstrate how it will become the worlds most transformative and modern city centre, serving as a model for future urban development, and contributing towards the citys evolution in line with Saudi Vision 2030. "The vision behind New Murabba is to create a transformative, vibrant, and sustainable downtown that will set new standards for urban development, and contribute to the citys future development in line with Saudi Vision 2030," stated Dyke. "Through New Murabba, NMDC will lead the charge of urban planning & development, towards a technologically-advanced and sustainability-conscious future. New Murabba will act as a key enabler of Vision 2030, while delivering an immersive experience for those who wish to live, partner, visit or work there," he added. Dyke also emphasized NMDCs commitment to enabling Saudi Arabia's economic diversification. "New Murabba will be a blueprint for future urban development, delivering innovation, environmental responsibility, and economic growth for the Kingdom," he added.-TradeArabia News Service The enduring, technical and stylish RM 011, the race drivers chronograph thats been more successful than any other, has been produced in all the Richard Mille materials. Its design embodies every aspect of the brands approach, too and is even more sophisticated than it looks It may be true that Richard Milles reputation was built on the brands tourbillon models, but the RM 011 chronograph is what made it successful. Tourbillons are extremely expensive and take a very long time to produce, even more so nowadays. The chronograph proved easier to distribute on a larger scale, offering greater diversity as well as consistency for the movement. The calibre in question, known as the RMAC1, was supplied by Vaucher Manufacture (one of Richard Milles two partners) without any major changes throughout its lifetime. COORDINATION The RM 011 is however more than just a way into the brand at a time when it was still more or less affordable (and before millionaire shopping mania all over the world scooped them all up). Its a foundational model in terms of the Richard Mille look and its approach to developing and wearing watches. It needs to be borne in mind that in the early days, the Richard Mille brand was inextricably linked to the world of motor racing, its one and only reference, and that Mr Mille, an automobile enthusiast and racing fan, spent all his time on race tracks with the drivers, who were his friends. The RM 011 was developed with (and practically for) Felipe Massa, with the result that it really is a drivers watch: a chronograph, very sturdy, and easy-to-read; and like a Formula One, able to be tweaked and adjusted in several ways. RM 011-FM Richard Mille ENGINE BLOCK This watch is first and foremost an engine. The RMAC1 is an integrated calibre produced by Vaucher Manufacture, a movement maker (aptly known in French as a motoriste) thats been supplying Richard Milles simple calibres for some 20 years simple here meaning that they dont have a tourbillon. The movement is exclusive to the brand, its appearance even more so: black, skeletonised, and overwhelmingly technical in terms of both language and finishes. It features three counters and a variable-iertia rotor, the blades of which can be adjusted to the pace of the wearers activity, like a Formula One aerofoil. Its barrel-shaped so as to fit into Richard Milles signature case. And of course, its flyback, as indicated by the engraving on the reset pusher. Another refinement that cements the car metaphor is that the RMAC1 calibres bridges are machined from titanium. Its a light, rigid movement and as a bonus offers an unsuspected function that has nothing to do with cars: behind its large date window lies an annual calendar mechanism that automatically alternates between 30 and 31-day months. A discreet 12-numeral disc indicates the current month at 5 oclock. BODYWORK Like all RMs, the 011 doesnt have a dial. At the very most, information needed to read the date, time and chronograph functions is located on an openwork structure thats kept as small as possible. The rest is traced on the underside of the sapphire crystal. The appearance is machine-like, technical and extreme: the language of F1. Further evidence of this is the tachymeter flange, graduated up to 700 km/h! The hands are in the same vein, in contrasting colours to help you spot them amid this jungle of shapes and depths. The first RM 011s were produced in Richard Milles favourite material at the time, satin-finish titanium. Later, NTPT carbon was first used on this timepiece, followed by TPT Quartz versions as well as rose and white gold and ceramics, separately or in varying combinations. Every material used by the brand has found a place on the RM 011. Its also been linked to a number of racing drivers with whom Richard Mille has had a contract (including Romain Grosjean), racing events (such as the Le Mans Classic) and teams (Lotus F1 among others). With its modular case and chronograph status, the RM 011 is the perfect vehicle for all this. RM 011-FM Richard Mille MONOCOQUE Once again, it becomes clear that the chronograph complication can fit in with any style. Thats where the RM 011 proves itself to be a perfect extension of the Richard Mille ethos, as does the timepiece embodying its second generation, the RM 11-03. The brand focuses on different versions and colour schemes with a high degree of technical expertise, borrowed from motor racing, to produce timepieces for racing drivers, worn in actual conditions for test purposes but at the end of the day, designed for the pure enjoyment of the brands founder. The RM 011 embodies all of Richard Milles racing spirit, with both the man and the brand summed up in an enduring collection. Richard Mille RM 011-FM CASE: barrel-shaped, satin-finish titanium, sapphire crystal, water resistant to 100m DIMENSIONS: 50 x 40mm; 16.15mm thick MOVEMENT: titanium, mechanical, variable inertia rotor self-winding mechanism, RMAC1 calibre, 4Hz, 50-hour power reserve FUNCTIONS: hours, minutes, small seconds display, chronograph with two pushers and two counters, annual calendar with large date and month displays DIAL: skeletonised STRAP: openwork black rubber, titanium butterfly clasp LAUNCH YEAR: 2007 This year GMT Magazine and WorldTempus have embarked on the ambitious project of summarising the chronograph since the year 2000 in The Millennium Watch Book - Chronographs, a big, beautifully laid out coffee table book. This article is an extract. The Millennium Watch Book - Chronographs is available in both French and English here. PRNewswire New Delhi [India], February 9: ET Now presents the Global Business Summit 2024, which will be hosted at the Taj Palace, Delhi, India, on 9th and 10th February; the excitement around the summit is palpable. The event is expected to be a critical forum for discussions on global economic trends, business collaborations, and strategic partnerships that India Inc. is eagerly looking forward to. Also Read | Deepfakes: European Union Prepares Guidelines for Digital Platforms To Avoid Democratic Risks From Generative AI Ahead of Election. The Indian delegation, consisting of ministers, brings a wide range of expertise and perspectives to the summit, allowing for a comprehensive discussion of global business, trade, and economic development, which will underscore India's vision of becoming a USD 30-trillion economy. Headlining the event today, 9th February (Day 1) will be Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, offering his insights and perspectives on the evolving business landscape. His address comes amidst intense election fever, as India prepares to choose its next government. This adds a layer of significance to the summit, with business leaders keenly seeking signals on economic policies and investment possibilities under different political scenarios. Also Read | Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya Movie Review: Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanons Chemistry Is Reduced To Mere Coding! (LatestLY Exclusive!). Adding to the star power is the participation of key Indian ministers: * Home Minister and Minister of Co-operation Amit Shah, who will highlight the government's focus on internal security and promoting cooperative business models. * Chief Minister of Haryana, Manohar Lal, who has committed to ET Now Global Business Summit 2024 by collaborating as a State Partner, highlighting the state's commitment to economic development and business-friendly policies positioning it as a major player in the Indian economy. The summit will also see other key ministers: * Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India* Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Textiles, Government of India* Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Union Minister of State for Electronics & Information Technology and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Government of India* Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister of Railways, Communications and Electronics & Information Technology, Government of India The 8th edition of The Times Group presents ET Now Global Business Summit promises to be a historic event that fosters collaboration and dialogue among leaders from all over the world. About ET Now Global Business Summit The Times Group presents ET Now Global Business Summit stands as a distinguished platform that has in the past hosted an illustrious array of personalities, both from India and around the world. This distinguished list includes luminaries such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi; the visionary Bill Gates from Microsoft; Brian Chesky of Airbnb; Arianna Huffington from Huffington Post Media Group; Dara Khosrowshahi, the leader of Uber; Reed Hastings representing Netflix; the innovative Steve Wozniak from Apple; renowned venture capitalist Guy Kawasaki; Anshula Kant from the World Bank Group; Gautam Adani of Adani Group; Sunil Bharti Mittal from Bharti Enterprises; the iconic actor Shah Rukh Khan; and the esteemed Economist and Nobel Laureate Paul Krugman, among other influential figures. This summit continues to be a nexus of unparalleled insights and global perspectives, bringing together the brightest minds to shape the future of business and innovation. About ET Edge ET Edge an Initiative of The Times Group is India's largest conference and thought leadership company. Since its inception in 2015, ET Edge has been at the forefront of creating unique thought leadership initiatives with the objective to empower multiple sectors, industries, and segments by dispersing critical business knowledge through strategically developed specialised conferences and summits. A team of young, enthusiastic, and innovative minds across multiple cities in India work together towards a common objective of curating pertinent conversations that address today's business needs. ET Now Global Business Summit is among ET Edge's flagship IPs, which strives to bring together visionaries and key global leaders through its enriched knowledge platforms to aid the symbiotic relationship between societies and businesses. Some of the other marquee conference properties of ET Edge include (SDG) Sustainability Development Goals Summit, Supply Chain Summit, CX Summit, and Best Brands series. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi [India], February 9 (ANI): A 22-year-old man was allegedly shot after a brief altercation with a group of five people over a money dispute in the Shastri Park area of North East district earlier last night, police said on Friday. The accused were identified as Farman, Fazil, Prince, Faizal and Wahid, all scrap dealers by profession (all aged 18-21). Also Read | Dog Attack in Uttar Pradesh: 10-Year-Old Girl Mauled to Death by Seven Stray Dogs in Siddharth Nagar. According to Delhi police, "The incident took place around 10:20 pm on Thursday when the group of accused cornered the victim, Sharukh over a money issue in Shastri Park, Gali number 9 of Delhi's North East district." The accused group had a brief altercation with Sharukh after which one of the accused, Farman shot him in his right lower abdomen, said police. Also Read | Uttar Pradesh: Man Who Murdered 22-Year-Old Woman in 2020 Surrenders Before Etawah Court. All five fled away from the scene after the incident. Shortly after police reached the site of the incident and Sharukh was taken to the Guru Teg Bahadur (GTB) Hospital where he is reported to be in stable condition after treatment. Based on the complaint that was filed by Sharukh, a case was registered against the five in the matter. As per the police, Sharukh, who also works as a scrap dealer, has more than 13 criminal cases registered against him, including robbery, snatching and the Arms Act. Currently, efforts are being made to apprehend the accused persons, said police. Further investigation is in progress. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi, Feb 9 (PTI) The AAP will hold a meeting of its Political Affairs Committee on February 13 to decide on the names of the Lok Sabha candidates for Gujarat, Haryana, and Goa, a party source said on Friday. In a sign of exasperation over protracted seat-sharing talks with its INDIA bloc partner Congress, the AAP on Thursday declared party candidates for three Lok Sabha constituencies in Assam. Also Read | Bengaluru: Man Sentenced to 20 Years Rigorous Imprisonment for Sexually Assaulting Minor Girl, Fined Rs 2.5 Lakh. "The party's PAC will meet on February 13 to decide on the names of the candidates for Gujarat, Goa and Haryana," the source said. Aam Aadmi Party national general secretary (organisation) Sandeep Pathak announced party leaders Manoj Dhanohar, Bhabhen Chaudhary, and Rishi Raj candidates from Dibrugarh, Guwahati, and Sonitpur, in that order. Also Read | PTI Founder Imran Khan Claims Victory Amid Counting of Votes for General Polls in Pakistan: Live Breaking News Headlines & Updates, February 9, 2024. Pathak, in a press conference at AAP headquarters here, said the party is left with little time ahead of the polls. Earlier, the AAP leaders had said that the party was in talks with the Congress over seat-sharing in Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat and Goa. AAP national convener and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has already announced Chaitar Vasava as the party's candidate from Bharuch seat in Gujarat. (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], February 9 (ANI): The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has scheduled to hold a meeting of its Political Affairs Committee (PAC) on February 13 to decide on the candidates for the Lok Sabha seats in Goa, Haryana, and Gujarat. "Aam Aadmi Party's Political Affairs Committee (PAC) meeting will be held on February 13. The meeting will decide on the candidates for Lok Sabha seats of Goa, Haryana and Gujarat," AAP. Also Read | Bengaluru: Man Sentenced to 20 Years Rigorous Imprisonment for Sexually Assaulting Minor Girl, Fined Rs 2.5 Lakh. The AAP has already announced three candidates in Assam and one in Gujarat. "Talks have been going on for a long time now. No conclusion has been drawn from the talks. I believe that since the elections are around the corner, we have less time and more work to do. We have announced three candidates for Assam. I hope that these seats will be accepted by the INDIA alliance and given to the AAP," AAP MP Sandeep Pathak said. Also Read | Uttarakhand: Four Killed, Over 100 Police Personnel Injured in Haldwani Violence; Internet Suspended, Schools and Colleges Closed. The PAC is the party's highest decision-making body and is headed by AAP national convener and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The meeting is likely to be attended by senior AAP leaders, including Kejriwal. In the 2022 Punjab Assembly elections, the AAP won a landslide victory, winning 92 out of 117 seats. The party is also in power in Delhi. AAP won 62 out of 70 seats in the Delhi Assembly polls. The BJP got just 8 seats, while the rest of the parties, including the Congress, drew a blank. As the Lok Sabha elections approach, political parties across the spectrum are ramping up their efforts to connect with voters. Meanwhile, the INDIA bloc, a coalition of parties aiming to counter the dominant political force in India, finds itself at a critical juncture. Cracks have emerged within the alliance, raising questions about its future. Key disagreements on leadership and seat-sharing have strained relations between member parties. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Valerii Zaluzhny, whose dismissal was announced on February 8, had been speaking honestly and frankly about the course of the war and answering journalists' pointed questions for two years. His comments rarely resembled a "warm bath." The general was able to "sober up" the world, which was expecting a lightning-fast and easy victory over the occupiers, and regularly reminded Ukrainians that every piece of free land was given to the Armed Forces by superhuman efforts. ADVERTISIMENT Thanks to these responses, people even far from the front line remembered that the bloody and brutal war with the Russians was still ongoing. OBOZ.UA decided to collect the most memorable quotes from the former commander-in-chief, who was admired both in Ukraine and abroad. Valerii Zaluzhnyi was outraged when the lives of Ukrainian soldiers were devalued and their risks were forgotten. "What is happening and what we are holding on to are Ukrainian people. These are Ukrainian soldiers, sergeants, Ukrainian officers who die and get injured every day but hold their positions," the general said. He was not afraid to tell the truth that Ukraine is losing its best sons and daughters in the fight for independence, and the words "heroes do not die" are not entirely correct. ADVERTISIMENT "Unfortunately, heroes do die. They gain eternal life and eternal glory, remain our spiritual guide and example for future generations of Ukrainians," the former chief explained. Valerii Zaluzhnyi, who values every life, was indignant when people expected results from the Ukrainian Armed Forces, forgetting how they are given to the heroes. "It's annoying when they say that the counteroffensive started slower than expected. This is not a show that the whole world is watching or something to bet on. Every day and every meter is paid for with blood," Valerii said about his expectations of the counteroffensive. Speaking on behalf of the Ukrainian soldiers, he assured that victory will be won on the battlefield, not at the negotiating table with terrorists. ADVERTISIMENT "We will fight as long as we have the strength. Our goal is to liberate all Ukrainian land from Russian occupation. The Ukrainian Armed Forces will not accept any negotiations until Russia leaves the occupied territories," the general assured. He did not reassure the people that war is easy. However, Zaluzhnyi believes that there can be no shame in fighting. "No matter how hard it is, we will definitely not be ashamed," the former commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces said. Intimidation by Russia and warnings from the world did not impress the "Iron" general, and he sincerely did not understand why this should affect the struggle of Ukrainians. ADVERTISIMENT "This does not stop me at all. We are doing our job. For some reason, all these signals are coming from outside. They say we should be afraid of a nuclear strike. So should we give up today?" Zaluzhnyi asked a rhetorical question. Despite all his bluntness, the general never questioned Ukraine's victory. "We did not choose the war. We accepted the battle. And God himself is on our side. We have enough strength to defeat the enemy," he assured. Only verified information is available on OBOZ.UA Telegram and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! New Delhi, Feb 9 (PTI) A delegation of the Madiga community from three states on Friday met a committee of secretaries to apprise it of their socio-economic conditions and the "difficulties" faced by them, officials said. This was the second meeting of the panel headed by the cabinet secretary constituted last month on the directions of the prime minister. Also Read | PM Modi MP Visit: Prime Minister Narendra Modi To Visit Madhya Pradesh on February 11 To Dedicate Projects Worth Rs 7,500 Crore. The committee is mandated to examine the administrative steps that can be taken to safeguard the interests of scheduled caste communities such as the Madigas and other such groups who have represented that they are not getting their due share of benefits. A delegation of the Madiga community from Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka met the panel and requested the central government to ensure that benefits of all the welfare and development schemes of the central and state governments should be available equitably to the members of the Madiga and other similarly placed communities, the officials said. Also Read | Maharashtra Fire: Blaze Erupts at Sassoon Hospital in Pune, No Casualties Reported (Watch Video). The committee noted the concerns raised by the delegation and informed it that the government regularly monitors matters relating to welfare of various sections of the society, and assured them that the issues raised by them will be examined and necessary follow up measures will be taken. The committee comprises secretaries of the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Department of Personnel and Training, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, the Department of Legal Affairs in the Law Ministry and the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment. The government has received representations from state governments, including Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka for the sub-categorisation of scheduled castes, which include the Madiga community, on the grounds that the benefits of reservation and welfare/developmental schemes are not percolating evenly among them. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Bengaluru, Feb 9 (PTI) A doctor was dismissed from service on Friday after a video of his pre-wedding photo shoot held inside an operation theatre of a government-run hospital in Karnataka's Chitradurga district went viral on social media, officials said. A controversy had erupted after a video went viral on social media showing the photo shoot, themed on medical procedures, of the contract-based physician at the district hospital in the Bharamasagar area. Also Read | PM Narendra Modi Eats Lunch with MPs at Parliament Canteen (Watch Video). Taking to social media platform 'X', Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said the doctor who conducted a pre-wedding shoot in the operation theatre of Bharamasagar government Hospital in Chitradurga has been dismissed from service. "Government hospital exist for the health care of people and not for personal work. I cannot tolerate such indiscipline from doctors. All contract employees, including doctors and staff performing duties in the health department, should perform their duties as per government service rules," he said in his post. Also Read | Bharat Ratna for Bal Thackeray: MNS Chief Raj Thackeray Demands India's Highest Civilian Award for Shiv Sena Founder. "I have already instructed the doctors and staff concerned to be careful so that such abuses do not happen in government hospitals," he added. The minister further said everyone should focus on performing the duty knowing that the facilities provided by the government to such medical facilities are for health care of the common people. In the video, the doctor could be seen performing a "surgery" on a patient, while his partner was assisting him. At the end of the video, the man who acted as a patient on whom the surgery was being performed was seen sitting up "post-operation". The video also showed people with cameras and lights present in the operation theatre for the pre-wedding shoot. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Nainital, February 9: Following violent clashes in Haldwani's Banbhoolpura area, Uttarakhand Police on Friday said they are using CCTV footage to identify rioters and stone pelters. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has directed swift action, instructing officials to immediately arrest miscreants. Clashes erupted Thursday night after an anti-encroachment drive in Haldwani's Banbhoolpura area. Earlier in the day, Uttarakhand Chief Secretary Radha Raturi, DGP Abhinav Kumar, and ADG Law & Order AP Anshuman reached Haldwani to assess the situation. Uttarakhand: CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Chairs High-Level Meeting to Address Haldwani Violence, Orders Strict Action Against Rioters. Security Stepped Up in Haldwani #WATCH | Uttarakhand: Security stepped up in several parts of the violence-hit area of Haldwani. Violence broke out in Banbhoolpura, Haldwani following an anti-encroachment drive yesterday. pic.twitter.com/dvVW1oGhU4 ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2024 The state government issued a high alert across the state on Friday, and security was tightened in Banbhoolpura.Meanwhile, the district administration has ordered the suspension of internet services and the closure of all schools and colleges. Expressing deep concern over the Haldwani violence incident, Nainital District Magistrate Vandana Singh termed the incident unfortunate and assured that the accused will be identified and strict action will be taken against them. Singh emphasized that the incident was not communal and urged everyone to refrain from making it a communal or sensitive issue. She clarified that no particular community was involved in the retaliation. Uttarakhand: Four Killed, Over 100 Police Personnel Injured in Haldwani Violence; Internet Suspended, Schools and Colleges Closed. "The police station has been completely damaged by the mob...This is an unfortunate incident. The accused will be identified and strict action will be taken. This (incident) was not communal. I request everybody to not make it communal or sensitive. Any particular community did not retaliate...This was an effort to challenge the state machinery, state govt and the law and order situation...A briefing will be done again in the evening," she said. Nainital District Magistrate Vandana Singh said this while addressing the media on Friday, providing details about the incident. "According to official information till now, two people have died," DM Singh said. Refuting claims of the property being a Madrasa, the DM specified that it was an empty property. "It is an empty property that has two structures, which are not registered as religious structures or have been given any such recognition. Some call the structure a Madrasa," she said. The DM said the demolition drive started peacefully but stones were pelted at the Municipal Corporation's team. The DM said the attack on the forces was planned. "The demolition drive started peacefully, the force was deployed for prevention...Stones were pelted on our Municipal Corporation's team...It was planned that the day the demolition drive will be conducted the forces would be attacked...The first mob with stones were dispersed & the second mob that came in had petrol bombs. This was unprovoked and our team did not use any force..." she said. "You can see (in the video) that the police force and the administration are not provoking or harming anybody," she added. The DM said, after the HC's order, action has been taken against encroachment at various places. This was not an isolated activity and was not targeted at a particular asset. "After the HC's order action has been taken against encroachment at various places in Haldwani...Everyone was given notice and time for hearing...Some did approach the HC some were given time while some were not given time. Where time was not given demolition drive was conducted by PWD & Municipal Corporation. This was not an isolated activity and was not targeted to a particular asset," she said. The DM claimed that despite the "peaceful" demolition drive, a large mob attacked the municipal team. "We decided to continue the demolition drive because there was no stay on the assets... A legal process to remove the encroachment is being carried out at various places and so it was done here too...Our teams and resources moved and nobody was provoked or harmed...No actions were taken (by Police and administration) to cause harm to life and property...The demolition drive began peacefully...Despite the entire process being carried out properly, a large mob, within half an hour, attacked our municipal cooperation team," she said. Further, the DM claimed efforts were made by the mob to terrorize the area... Our priority was to protect the police station and then ensure that no loss of life or property occurred in Gandhi Nagar "Maximum force was used for the protest of the police station...As soon as they (the mob) were dispersed from the police station, they headed to the Gandhi Nagar area...People from all communities and religions stay there...Efforts were made (by the mob) to terrorize the area...Our priority was to protect the police station and then ensure that no loss of life or property occurred in Gandhi Nagar...Our efforts were directed to protect the main city of Haldwani," she said. The DM said that the mob surrounded a police station, trapping those inside. The mob attacked with stones and petrol bombs, setting vehicles on fire. "Later, the police station was surrounded by the mob and those inside the police station were not allowed to come out. They were first pelted with stones and then attacked by petrol bombs. The vehicles outside the station were set on fire, and due to the smoke, there was suffocation due to the smoke...Tear gas and water cannons were used only to safeguard the police station," she said. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India] February 9 (ANI): BJP workers took out a candlelight march at Srinagar's iconic Lal Chowk on Thursday to protest against the killing of two civilians from Punjab's Amritsar on Wednesday. The two civilians were killed after suspected terrorists opened fire at the Shaheed Gunj area in Srinagar on Wednesday evening. One of the victims, identified as Amritpal Singh, died at the spot while the other, identified as Rohit, was critically injured. Also Read | Telangana Shocker: Spurned Lover Stabs Girl to Death in Full Public View in Nirmal District; Disturbing Video Surfaces. However, the latter succumbed to his injuries on Thursday. A BJP worker, who marched alongside fellow protesters, holding candles, told ANI, "The terrorists can't digest the return of peace and the restoration of nomality in Jammu and Kashmir. They can't take it that the locals here are thriving in the spirit of brotherhood. They are also struggling to come to terms with the fact that Jammu Kashmir is receiving funds from the Centre." Also Read | West Bengal: Six Minor Students Missing After Boat Capsizes Into Rupnarayan River in Howrah. Earlier, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha condemned Wednesday's terror attack in Srinagar. In a post on X, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha stated, "I am deeply shocked and saddened by the heinous terror attack in Srinagar on Amritpal and Rohit from Amritsar. I condemn in strongest terms this brutal act, which has snuffed out an innocent life. In this hour of grief, I convey my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family." Condemning the attack in that claimed the lives of two non-natives, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and National Conference (NC) leader, Omar Abdullah, on Thursday said the incident served to demonstrate that the prevailing situation in the Union Territory isn't what the administration claims it to be. Speaking to ANI on Thursday, the National Conference leader said, "We deeply regret that two of our guests (non-residents) fell victim to this firing incident in Srinagar. One person died in the attack yesterday itself, while the other succumbed to his injuries at a hospital today." (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, Feb 9 (PTI) The high-level committee on 'one nation, one election' on Friday initiated consultations with state election commissions, mandated to hold local bodies' elections, to seek their views on simultaneous polls. Set up in September last, the panel headed by former president Ram Nath Kovind is mandated to examine and make recommendations at the earliest on the issue of holding simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha, state assemblies, municipalities and panchayats. Also Read | Abhishek Ghosalkar Dies: Thousands Attend Shiv Sena UBT Leader's Funeral in Borivali (See Pics and Video). An official statement said the committee met Madhukar Gupta, State Election Commissioner of Rajasthan, Sanjay Shrivastava, the former State Election Commissioner Delhi and Chandigarh, and Dalip Singh, former State Election Commissioner of Haryana. The Election Commission is mandated to hold presidential, vice presidential, Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, state assembly and state legislative council polls. Also Read | Vladimir Putin Health Update: Russia President Seen Holding Down Shaking Leg in Tucker Carlson Interview Amid Ill-Health Rumours. The state election commissions of respective states are separate bodies under the Constitution and hold elections to local bodies, called the third tier of democracy. Committee's new secretary Rajiv Mani, who is also Legislative Secretary in the law ministry, was also present during the consultations. Earlier, being the law secretary, Niten Chandra was the panel's secretary. He was recently shifted out of the law ministry. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Chitradurga, Feb 9 (PTI) Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday said legal action will be taken against senior BJP leader and former minister K S Eshwarappa for his statement demanding a law to shoot 'traitors D K Suresh and Vinay Kulkarni'. The chief minister wondered whether this was the language of a leader belonging to a national party. Also Read | Murder Caught on Camera in Delhi: Two Men Shot Dead in Saloon in Dwarka, Probe Underway; Disturbing Video Surfaces. During an event in Davangere on Thursday, Eshwarappa said, "I want to appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to bring a law to shoot the two traitors - D K Suresh and Vinay Kulkarni, who want South India to be a separate country." He even dared Congress to expel the two traitors' from the party to keep the flocks together somehow'. Also Read | Russians Enter North Korea as First Post-COVID Tourists. Suresh is a Lok Sabha member from Bengaluru Rural constitutency and Vinay Kulkarni is Dharward MLA. Reacting to the statement, Siddaramaiah told reporters here that Eshwarappa does not know any language other than ripping, beating and killing. "We will take legal action against him (Eshwarappa). He says he is trained in the RSS. Is this his training? He says shoot down D K Suresh. Is this the language of a leader belonging to a national party? Should we call them seasoned politicians? the chief minister said. Suresh, the brother of Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, has stoked a row with his recent statement that southern states would be forced to demand for a separate nation if the injustice' in distribution of funds is not rectified by the Centre. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Jammu (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], February 9 (ANI): Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday organised a farewell function for Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi, who is set to become Army Vice Chief next week. The function was hosted by Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP) RR Swain. Also Read | Live Breaking News Headlines & Updates, February 9, 2024. DGP RR Swain expressed his gratitude to Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi for his cooperation and support during his tenure in Jammu and Kashmir and described him not only as a professional soldier par excellence but also as a human being one could connect with, communicate with, share thoughts with, and draw inspiration from. Discussing the strong bond of trust and support that Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi had cultivated with the Jammu and Kashmir Police during his posting in the region, RR Swain said that the "outgoing General will be missed". Also Read | Telangana Shocker: Spurned Lover Stabs Girl to Death in Full Public View in Nirmal District; Disturbing Video Surfaces. On the occasion, Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi, who is currently the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command, said that there is a special relationship between the police and army, with unwavering trust between the two organisations. "When you have 'trust,' then every issue gets settled. Because of cooperation between the two, there has been huge success in operations against the terrorists. I had the opportunity to work with various police forces across the country and this synergy between the J-K Police and the army is unparalleled," he said. Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi has been appointed as the new Army Vice Chief as of February 15. He would be replacing Lt Gen MV Suchindra Kumar, who would be his successor at the Northern Army Command in Udhampur. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Patna, Feb 9 (PTI) The Bihar Assembly on Friday made it clear that Speaker Awadh Bihari Chaudhary will have to face the no-confidence motion moved by the ruling NDA before the newly formed government seeks a trust vote on February 12. The assembly secretariat released the business agenda of the House for Monday, when the budget session will commence, with a customary address by the Governor to members of the bicameral legislature. Also Read | Murder Caught on Camera in Delhi: Two Men Shot Dead in Saloon in Dwarka, Probe Underway; Disturbing Video Surfaces. As per the agenda, released unusually before time, the Governor's speech will be preceded by a preliminary address, to the assembly, by the Speaker. Immediately after Governor's address, the assembly will take up the proposal for removal of the Speaker, which will be followed by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar seeking a trust vote for the government. Also Read | Russians Enter North Korea as First Post-COVID Tourists. Chaudhary belongs to the RJD, which lost power as a result of Kumar's abrupt exit from Mahagathbandhan and return to the BJP-led NDA. Soon after the installation of the NDA government two weeks ago, a no-confidence motion had been moved against Chaudhary by the ruling coalition. Chaudhary has refused to step down as Speaker, causing jitters in the NDA camp, which enjoys a slender majority and is wary of a trust vote taking place with an opposition party leader in the chair. The NDA, which includes an Independent and four MLAs of former CM Jitan Ram Manjhi's Hindustani Awam Morcha, has a total strength of 128 in the 243-member assembly. The Mahagathbandhan, which comprises RJD, Congress and three Left parties, has 114 MLAs and falls eight members short of majority. Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi's AIMIM has one MLA who has kept his cards close to the chest. However, JD(U) leader and Deputy Speaker Maheshwar Hazari made it clear that as per rules, the Speaker will have to give up the chair as soon as a no-confidence motion is taken up inside the House. Hazari said the proceedings will, thereafter, be conducted by the Deputy Speaker until the House elects a new Speaker. The BJP, which has 78 MLAs as against 45 of the chief minister's JD(U), is likely to have one of its leaders as the Speaker. Kumar, who has ruled Bihar since 2005 except for an eight-month hiatus, had kept the Speaker's post with his party until 2020 when the JD(U)'s tally crashed in the assembly polls. BJP leader Vijay Kumar Sinha, who was the Speaker from 2020, till Kumar's sudden exit from NDA two years later, is now a Deputy CM. Senior BJP leaders Tarkishor Prasad, who was a Deputy CM till 2022, and former state unit chief Nand Kishor Yadav are said to be in the race for the new Speaker's post. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Mumbai, Feb 9 (PTI) Maharashtra Director General of Police Rashmi Shukla on Friday said the public's faith in the force had "diminished" at some level and asserted that policing would be ineffective "without winning the trust and support of the community that we serve". Shukla, who took charge as the state's first woman DGP on January 9, shared her thoughts on X, formerly Twitter. Also Read | PM Modi MP Visit: Prime Minister Narendra Modi To Visit Madhya Pradesh on February 11 To Dedicate Projects Worth Rs 7,500 Crore. It was the force's responsibility to win back the trust of the public by "moving past the errors of the past", she added. "I believe that our policing is ineffective without winning the trust and support of the community that we serve. However, it seems vital to recognise that, at some level, the public's faith in our police force has diminished," she said on X. Also Read | Aadhaar Card Update Last Date: Final Deadline To Update Aadhaar Ends on March 14, Check Details. "Moving past the errors of the past, I recognise it is our responsibility to win back your (citizens) trust and assure you that all police units in the state are and will continue working diligently to protect you and your rights," she said. Shukla said she had returned to Maharashtra armed with valuable experience gained from leading a Central Police Force and asserted she was committed to fostering the highest standards of professional conduct among all police personnel in the state. "We will rebuild bridges between police and communities, and I will not tolerate any unjustified acts of violence, exploitation, or misconduct by any members of the police force," she warned. There are "many and varied" challenges confronting the force, and the state will surely face some trying times, she said. "The force will rise to confront the challenges without hesitation or bias," said the DGP, who has had stints in the Central Reserve Police Force and the Seema Sashastra Bal. (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], February 9 (ANI): The Supreme Court dismissed on Friday a petition seeking contempt action against the Election Commission of India for not changing the forms that insist on furnishing Aadhaar numbers to enroll new voters. A bench of Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and Justices Manoj Misra and Satish Chandra Sharma declined to initiate contempt proceedings against the poll panel while taking into note the ECI's statement that it was addressing the issue. Also Read | White Paper on Indian Economy: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Slams Opposition Parties in Lok Sabha, Says White Paper Is Serious Document, Everything Is With Evidence (Watch Video). The petitioner said that despite the poll panel's assurance in 2023 that Aadhaar numbers were not obligatory for new voter registration, the forms remained unchanged. The Election Commission on September 21, 2023, had given an undertaking to the apex court that it would make appropriate clarificatory changes in Forms 6 and 6B, which sought Aadhaar details for electoral roll authentication for new voters. Also Read | Delhi High Court Directs PWD To Prepare Fund Estimate for Hybrid Hearing Equipment in District Courts. The Election Commission had said that the submission of Aadhaar numbers was not mandatory as per Rule 26-B of the Registration of Electors (Amendment) Rules 2022. The response of the poll panel came on a plea filed by G Niranjan, senior vice president of the Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee, who highlighted issues with Forms 6 and 6B. The Congress leader's plea had questioned the validity of the requirement of furnishing the Aadhaar details with Form 6 (application form for new voters) and Form 6B (Letter of Information of Aadhaar number for the purpose of electoral roll authentication) of the ECI forms for registration in e-roll. Form 6B facilitated voters in informing their Aadhaar numbers for electoral roll authentication. H-5791828.html" title="International Women's Week 2024: Know Start & End Dates, Significance and Celebrations of the Global Event">International Women's Week 2024: Know Start & End Dates, Significance and Celebrations of the Global Event General Valerii Zaluzhnyi, who was dismissed from his post as commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces on February 8, was regularly in the camera lens. His photographs often conveyed the pain of the entire nation, less often they became memes and made people laugh, and sometimes even reminded Ukrainians of the past. ADVERTISIMENT The "iron" general almost never refused to take a selfie, but the genuine emotions of the military could usually be read on his face in the most vulnerable moments: when he was alone, during the funerals of heroes, etc. OBOZ.UA decided to show the most powerful footage of Valerii that was seen not only in Ukraine but also around the world. In the summer of 2023, General Zaluzhnyi posed for a portrait in his office in the building of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in Kyiv. His penetrating gaze aroused a storm of emotions in the audience, and the picture was shared by many foreign media outlets without any unnecessary pathos. ADVERTISIMENT One of the most tragic photos that the former chief of staff came across was taken at the funeral of the hero of Ukraine Dmytro Kotsyubaylo, known by his call sign "Da Vinci". The general knelt down in front of the coffin and the relatives of the fallen soldier. Another emotional shot of the former commander-in-chief appeared after his speech during a press conference in Kyiv. The "iron" general rarely showed his emotions, but he never hid them either. ADVERTISIMENT After he was dismissed from his post, a photo of Andriy Nesterenko, where the Hero of Ukraine looks up in the Verkhovna Rada, began to be more actively circulated online. Viacheslav Chornovil once had a similar photo. However, the general did not always look pensive and sad. Often his photos inspired Ukrainians and gave them faith in victory. For example, a photo by Hanna Malyar, where he showed a "V" sign, which means, among other things, the word "Victory". ADVERTISIMENT There were also days when the former head of the army unknowingly became a meme hero. For example, last June, he gave his subordinates a task to wear a patch in the form of a fantastic character, Grog. The photo with the "heart" that the general addressed to the camera was taken back in 2021, but it became known during the news of mobilization. "In the photo, the commander-in-chief, Valeriy Zaluzhny, when he was informed that the separatists' BC warehouse had exploded, and as a result, we have a bunch of stumps of Zaporizhzhia origin," the post read. ADVERTISIMENT During the Independence Day celebrations on August 24, 2023, Zaluzhnyi showed his intention to defeat the occupiers with his whole appearance. Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Gomati (Tripura) [India], February 9 (ANI): Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha inaugurated the Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya (KGBV) Type-IV Hostel attached to Chlakaham Higher Secondary School in Karbook on Friday. This 100-bed hostel has been constructed at a cost of Rs 2,28,67,000. This well-equipped hostel built in a remote town will play a constructive role in the development of girls' education in the coming days, said authorities. Also Read | Murder Caught on Camera in Delhi: Two Men Shot Dead in Saloon in Dwarka, Probe Underway; Disturbing Video Surfaces. The Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs) Scheme provides access and quality education to girls from disadvantaged groups of girls in the age group of 10-18 years aspiring to study in Classes VI-XII. KGBVs are an important component of the Union government's flagship Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan. Also Read | Russians Enter North Korea as First Post-COVID Tourists. The disadvantaged groups belonging to SC, ST, OBC, minority communities, and BPL families are the scheme's beneficiaries. The scheme seeks to ensure the smooth transition of girls belonging to these groups from elementary to secondary and up to class XII. KGBV provides the facility to have at least one residential school for girls from Classes VI-XII in every educationally backward block (EBBs). Meanwhile, CM Manik Saha also inaugurated a 50-bed hospital and OT at Amarpur sub-division in Gomati district on Friday and addressed the gathering. He also interacted with the beneficiaries of various schemes, including PMAY and Ayushman Bharat, during his visit to Chellagang, Karbook. "The double-engine government led by PM Narendra Modi has introduced several schemes, & the benefits are reaching the people up to the last mile. During my visit to Chellagang, Karbook today, interacted with the beneficiaries of various schemes, including PMAY, Ayushman Bharat, Jal Jeevan Mission & Social Allowance," Saha posted on X. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Nainital, February 9: Four people died and over 100 police personnel were injured after violence erupted in Haldwani's Banbhoolpura area on Thursday during an anti-encroachment drive, a senior official said. "Four people died in the violence-hit Banbhoolpura and more than 100 policemen were injured," said State ADG Law & Order AP Anshuman. Following the unrest, the district administration suspended internet services and ordered the closure of all schools and colleges. "Internet services suspended after violence in Banbhoolpura of Haldwani in which so far 4 people have died and more than 100 policemen were injured. The administration has also ordered the closure of all schools and colleges," Nainital District Administration. Uttarakhand government has put high alert in the state as a precaution after the violence. Earlier, four companies of paramilitary forces were rushed to Haldwani in Nainital district after violence erupted on Thursday in Banbhoolpura during an anti-encroachment drive. Uttarakhand: 60 Injured, Curfew Imposed in Haldwani After Violence Over Demolition of Illegally Built Madrasa (Watch Video). Haldwani Violence According to the Uttarakhand Police, two companies of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) from Udham Singh Nagar also reached Haldwani. Speaking to ANI on Thursday, Inspector General Nilesh Anand Bharne, the spokesperson for Police Headquarters, said, "Four companies of paramilitary personnel have been sent to the violence-hit area of Haldwani. Two companies of PAC from Udham Singh Nagar have already reached Haldwani." A curfew has been enforced in Banbhoolpura on the orders of the District Magistrate and a shoot-at-sight order has also been issued against 'rioters'. Haldwani Violence: Shoot-at-Sight Orders After Violence During Madrasa Demolition in Uttarakhand. Earlier in the day, Uttarakhand Director General of Police (DGP) Abhinav Kumar informed that a request was made to the Ministry of Home Affairs to send additional central paramilitary personnel. "Around 4 pm today, a joint team from the district administration and police was conducting an anti-encroachment drive in Banbhoolpura, Haldwani, as per the court's order. Coming out against the drive, a few miscreants pelted stones at the officials and also indulged in arson. It was also alleged that they opened fire at the police using illegal firearms," DGP Kumar said. "The state government has also demanded that the MHA provide additional police forces. The MHA has, so far, made four companies of additional central forces available to us," Kumar added. He added, however, that the situation was under control. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami urged people to maintain peace. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Nainital (Uttarakhand) [India], February 9 (ANI): Four companies of paramilitary forces were rushed to Haldwani in Nainital district after violence erupted on Thursday in Banbhoolpura during an anti-encroachment drive. According to the Uttarakhand Police, two companies of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) from Udham Singh Nagar also reached Haldwani. Also Read | Telangana Shocker: Spurned Lover Stabs Girl to Death in Full Public View in Nirmal District; Disturbing Video Surfaces. Speaking to ANI on Thursday, Inspector General Nilesh Anand Bharne, the spokesperson for Police Headquarters, said, "Four companies of paramilitary personnel have been sent to the violence-hit area of Haldwani. Two companies of PAC from Udham Singh Nagar have already reached Haldwani." A curfew has been enforced in Banbhoolpura on the orders of the District Magistrate and a shoot-at-sight order has also been issued against 'rioters'. Also Read | West Bengal: Six Minor Students Missing After Boat Capsizes Into Rupnarayan River in Howrah. Earlier in the day, Uttarakhand Director General of Police (DGP) Abhinav Kumar informed that a request was made to the Ministry of Home Affairs to send additional central paramilitary personnel. "Around 4 pm today, a joint team from the district administration and police was conducting an anti-encroachment drive in Banbhoolpura, Haldwani, as per the court's order. Coming out against the drive, a few miscreants pelted stones at the officials and also indulged in arson. It was also alleged that they opened fire at the police using illegal firearms," DGP Kumar said. "The state government has also demanded that the MHA provide additional police forces. The MHA has, so far, made four companies of additional central forces available to us," Kumar added. He added, however, that the situation was under control. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami urged people to maintain peace. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Bhubaneswar, Feb 9 (PTI) The three-day 10th Kalinga Literary Festival (KLF) commenced here on Friday, with the event aimed at preserving and propagating the country's literary legacy. The central theme of the festival is Legends of Ancient Bharat and Beyond: Inspiring Lived Experience in the 21st Century'. Also Read | Aadhaar Card Update Last Date: Final Deadline To Update Aadhaar Ends on March 14, Check Details. The first day unfolded with a variety of sessions in which prominent writers, poets and journalists engaged in discussions on topics like literature, media and nationalism. Virtually inaugurating the event, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said: "The Kalinga Literary Festival is a bridge connecting the past with the present, ancient wisdom with contemporary insights. As participants immerse themselves in Bharat's literary legacy, the festival becomes a platform to explore solutions proposed by ancestors for societal challenges and rediscover the beauty and relevance of tales in the modern world." Also Read | Bus Service on Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL): BEST Finalises Route on Atal Setu, Check Details Here. Founder and director of KLF, Rashmi Ranjan Parida, said it was the responsibility of people to ensure the wisdom of the ages enlightens and guides humanity toward compassion, justice and harmony. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Singapore, February 9: With many Chinese-origin families considering children born in the Year of the Dragon to be "especially auspicious", Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Friday urged married Singaporean couples to have babies during the year and assured them his government's support. In his annual Chinese New Year message, Lee said the dragon is a "symbol of power, strength and good fortune". "So now is as good a time as any for young couples to add a 'little dragon' to your family," said the prime minister who celebrates his birthday on 10 February. Lee was born in the year of Dragon in 1952. "We will build a 'Singapore Made for Families', and continue supporting your marriage and parenthood aspirations," The Channel News Asia quoted the 72-year-old Lee as saying. Support for infant caregiving and work-life harmony has been "progressively strengthened" to see parents through their children's formative years, he said, adding that government-paid paternity leave was recently doubled from two weeks to four weeks on a voluntary basis. Such measures will "lighten the burden on parents, but they are merely enablers", said the prime minister. Chinese New Year 2024 Date: When Is Lunar New Year, the Year of the Dragon? Know the History and Significance of the Spring Festival. "Ultimately, couples will decide whether to have children for their own reasons. I hope more will decide to go ahead, and I am confident they will find parenthood a deeply rewarding and fulfilling journey." He added that he hoped his encouragement "prompts more couples to try for a baby", although he acknowledged that "the decision is a very personal one". The prime minister also said families should be celebrated as Chinese New Year is celebrated. PM Lee Hsien Loong's New Year Message Tonight, we will be gathering with our loved ones to usher in the #YearoftheDragon. I hope more couples will be encouraged this year to add a little dragon to your family. Read my #ChineseNewYear message here: https://t.co/U4A9UJdaAw LHL https://t.co/oFLvFc0wHV pic.twitter.com/RfZiObTRd8 leehsienloong (@leehsienloong) February 9, 2024 "Families are at the heart of our society. Our families give us unwavering strength and support, cheer for us in our triumphs and stand by us through adversity. They are a big part of our sense of identity, belonging and purpose. Through our families, we pass on our aspirations and values from generation to generation," said Lee. "One important element of family life is having and bringing up children. It is a great joy for parents to bring kids into this world, and to watch them learn and grow, reaching one milestone after another and growing up year-by-year. When is Chinese New Year 2024? From Oranges to Peaches; List of Lucky Fruits for Spring Festival This Year. "Grandparents, like me, share this joy too. We dote and fuss over our grandchildren, helping the parents to bring them up and contributing our part in this journey filled with happiness, purpose and love," he said. Singaporeans will celebrate Chinese New Year this weekend, February 10-11, and will get an additional holiday on Monday in lieu of the celebration falling on Sunday as it is for all festivals. The prime minister also noted that fertility rates around the world have been declining, especially in "developed societies" such as Singapore. Singapore's resident total fertility rate hit an all-time low of 1.05 in 2022, dipping below the previous record of 1.1 in 2020 and the 2021 figure of 1.12. The drop "was partly due to the Tiger year in the lunar calendar, which is generally associated with lower births among the Chinese", Minister in the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) Indranee Rajah had said in Parliament in February 2023. With every generation having different aspirations, Lee observed that many young people are prioritising career development, spending quality time with their partners and pursuing other interests. "Even couples who want kids may put off starting families, not realising how quickly it gets harder with each passing year," he said. "All this is quite understandable. But I still hope that more Singaporean couples will decide to have more children, and to have them earlier!" "Entering the Dragon year, let us press forward with optimism and determination. I wish all Singaporeans good health, and a very happy Chinese New Year," 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) Toronto, Feb 9 (AP) Canada's largest media and telecom company said Thursday it is ending multiple television newscasts and making other programming cuts after its parent company announced 4,800 layoffs and the sale of 45 of its 103 regional radio stations. In an internal memo to Bell Media employees, it said news stations such as CTV and BNN Bloomberg would be affected immediately. Also Read | Poop Problem: Mount Everest Climbers Asked To Bring Back Poo in Bags. The radio stations being sold are in British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic Canada. The memo, signed by Dave Daigle, vice-president of local TV, radio and Bell Media Studios, and Richard Gray, vice-president of news at Bell Media, said weekday noon newscasts at all CTV stations except Toronto would end. It is also scrapping its 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. newscasts on weekends at all CTV and CTV2 stations except Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa. Also Read | Tesla Layoffs 2024: Elon Musk Asks Its Manager To Evaluate Employee Performance and Identify Which Jobs Are Important, Hinting at Potential Layoffs, Says Report. Earlier, Bell Media's parent company BCE Inc. announced it was cutting 9% of its workforce. The company, in an open letter signed by chief executive Mirko Bibic, said 4,800 jobs at all levels of the company would be cut. Fewer than 10% of the total job cuts are at Bell Media specifically. Some employees have already been notified or were to be informed Thursday of being laid off, while the balance will be told by the spring. Bibic said the company will use vacancies and natural attrition to minimize layoffs as much as possible. The Unifor union said 800 members it represents were laid off in the Bell cuts, around 100 of which from the media sector and the balance from the telecom sector. Daigle and Gray also said W5, an journalism investigations show, will shift from a standalone documentary series to a multi-platform investigative reporting unit featured on CTV National News, CTVNews.ca and other news platforms. (AP) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Islamabad, Feb 9 (PTI) Jailed former prime minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party on Friday ruled out forging an alliance with the Pakistan Peoples Party and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, saying it is in a position to form a federal government on its own. Independent candidates backed by Khan's party have won 55 out of the 139 National Assembly results announced by the election commission so far following unusual delays, leading to allegations of vote rigging. The PML-N has bagged 43 seats while PPP has won 35. Also Read | US: Thieves Steal Radio Station's Entire 200-Foot Tower Overnight Along With Other Broadcasting Equipment in Alabama. Overall, 169 seats are needed to secure a simple majority out of its total 336 seats, which include the reserved slots for women and minorities. "We are not in contact with PPP or PML-N," PTI chairman Barrister Gohar Khan was quoted as saying by the Geo News. Also Read | Vladimir Putin Health Update: Russia President Seen Holding Down Shaking Leg in Tucker Carlson Interview Amid Ill-Health Rumours. He claimed that his party was winning 150 National Assembly seats and would be able to achieve the required number of seats to form government at the Centre. "We are not intending to form a coalition government with PPP and PML-N," he said. "We will form the government at the Centre and Punjab, he added. He said the PTI has a clear lead in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and will form a government there as well. "PTI will remain in Parliament and will play its role," he added. He said that independent candidates belong to PTI and asserted they would not join any party against party directives amid fears of horse-trading. His statement comes soon after PML-N leader Ishaq Dar claimed that independent candidates, who have won, are in contact with his party. "The independents have contacted us and they will join any party in the next 72 hours as per the Constitution," said the former finance minister while speaking to Geo News on Friday as the election results continue to pour in. Dar said that the PML-N cannot force anyone to join the party, adding that they are being contacted by candidates who are willing to join their party. (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], February 9 (ANI/TPS): On Thursday Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant hosted his Czech counterpart, Minister of Defence Jana Cernochova. Minister Gallant expressed his appreciation for the Minister's solidarity and partnership in both the diplomatic and defence arenas since the attack conducted by Hamas on October 7th. He briefed the Minister on developments in the war against Hamas in Gaza, and the threat posed by Hezbollah on the northern border. The Ministers also discussed the hostage situation and ongoing efforts to ensure their return to Israel. Also Read | Pakistan Election Results 2024: Shehbaz Sharif, Nawaz Sharif Secure Victory, PML(N) Claims Majority in National Assembly. The parties discussed the close bilateral ties between the respective militaries and defense establishments, particularly regarding industrial projects and intelligence cooperation. "Today our nations share a powerful bond and our defence establishments cooperate in a range of fields - from industry to intelligence," Gallant told Jana Cernochova. "This directly impacts the security and capabilities of both countries. Your visit during this time is yet another sign of solidarity and support - thank you." Also Read | Ecuador: Two Motorcycle-Borne Men Assassinate 29-Year-Old Councilwoman Diana Carnero in Broad Daylight in Guayas, Investigation Underway. "Since the brutal attacks conducted by Hamas on October 7th, we have been fighting a complex, yet just war against a cynical enemy," he added. "Our goals remain unchanged. We remain committed to bringing home 136 hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. And we remain determined to destroy Hamas as a terrorist and governing body in Gaza." "Just like in 1948, I now stand by the State of Israel and we are ready to provide unequivocal support in the right to self-defence and help in the fight against the terrorists Hamas," said Minister Cernochova." She said their meeting held "constructive" negotiations on defence-industrial cooperation and acquisition projects. (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) Fukushima [Japan], February 9 (ANI): The devastating tsunami and earthquake that rocked Japan in 2011 is now showing signs of recovery as Fukushima Prefecture's Okuma and Namie evacuation orders are partially lifted, witnessing a resurgence, and new buildings are underway, welcoming back residents. Notably, JFOODO, aka Japan Food Product Overseas Promotion Centre, has enlisted researcher Rebekah Wilson Lye to delve into Japan's rich culture and traditions in the wake of these transformative events. Also Read | Pakistan Elections 2024: European Union Questions Credibility of General Polls. "I am here at Manabiya Yumenomori School to learn about this wonderful project, which just started in August this year," Rebekah Wilson Lye said. A good point is to create a very inclusive community. In this school, many people originally lived in "Okuma-town" and came back from the evacuation area, but there are also people who moved here. Also Read | Pakistan Elction Results 2024: Nawaz Sharif Plans Coalition Government; Reaches Out to PPP, JUI-F Amid Fractured Mandate. "The school slogan is 'Here you will start individual personality'," Ippei Nango's GM, Manabiya Yumenomori said. Rebekah Wilson Lye visited "Namie Star-Fallen Farm" to meet organiser Daiju Takahashi. "It's been a great experience for me. People who have come back here, the local people, are amazingly open-minded and welcoming to those outsiders like me. We are growing root beets and also indigo dye plants and very rare plants like a juniper berry or agave tequila, which haven't been grown in Japan ever," Daiju Takahashi said. "Well, I've spent the day here in the Namie-machi and Okuma-machi areas. I've met local people, some local children, and even some outsiders who have decided to make Namie-machi their home. And my takeaway from our conversations today. I have seen a real sense of forward movement as though it is a new era, a new dawn here in this small town," Rebekah Wilson Lye said. Now, Fukushima is rebuilding an unparalleled community in Japan after overcoming tragedy. Foreign viewers of Japan can easily identify it. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi, February 9: Tension gripped the residents of Delhi's Najafgarh area after an unattended bag and an iron trunk were found near a house on Friday, prompting the police to call in the bomb disposal squad. However, after an extensive examination, nothing suspicious was found in the bag and trunk. According to the police, on Friday, information regarding the bag and iron trunk was received at the Najafgarh police station at 12:02 p.m. Acting on the call, a police team reached the spot where the bag and the iron trunk were found to be lying unattended. "The team inquired about the items from the nearby persons but no information was received about their owner," said a senior police official. Bomb Blast Threat in Delhi: Police Receive Bomb Threat at IGI Airport and Paharganj. The caller identified as Manik Kumar, a resident of Todarmal colony, Thana Road in Najafgarh, stated that someone had left the bag and the trunk in front of his house in the morning. "The area was cordoned off and was inspected by the Bomb Disposal Team of Dwarka district," said the official. Delhi: Student Falls to Death From Foot Over Bridge on Wazirabad Road; PWD Minister Atishi Orders Probe. "During inspection nothing suspicious was found in the bag and trunk. Only the clothes of a male and a child were found in the bag and household items were found in the iron trunk. All the items have been taken in police possession under section 66 DP Act," the official added. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 09, 2024 08:29 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). While European countries are deciding on their representatives for the Eurovision Song Contest 2024, bookmakers are fighting fiercely for the potential winner. However, it seems that fifteen countries have no chance of winning, according to the odds. Nine of them have already announced their representatives, but this did not help them move up a few places either. ADVERTISIMENT Ukraine is still at the top of the table with a 19% chance of winning the Eurovision Song Contest 2024. Analysts seem to consider San Marino and Albania to be the "biggest losers", with less than 1%. The relevant rating is available on the Eurovision World website. As we reported, fifteen countries are predicted to fail in the song contest. They all received a 1% chance of winning or even less. Among them: Belgium (with Mustii); (with Mustii); Austria (with the song Kaleen - We Will Rave); ADVERTISIMENT The Netherlands (represented by Joost Klein); (represented by Joost Klein); Serbia Latvia; Cyprus (with the song "Liar" by Silia Kapsis (only a demo version has been published)); Denmark; Portugal; Moldova; Luxembourg (with the song Tali - Fighter); Slovenia (with the song Raiven - Veronika); Czech Republic (with the song "Pedestal" by Aiko); ADVERTISIMENT Malta (with the song "Loop" by Sarah Bonnici); Albania (with the song Besa - Zemren n'dore); San Marino As a reminder, Ukraine's chances of winning have already increased to 19% after the National Selection for Eurovision 2024. On February 4, this figure was 16%. Ukraine will be represented by the duo alyona alyona and Jerry Heil with the song "Teresa & Maria". ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! The girl had informed her parents about the incident. Though they came forward to lodge a police complaint, the elders of the village intervened and had them compromise. A major fire broke out at Sassoon Hospital in Maharashtra's Pune on Friday evening. The exact cause of the fire is yet unknown. The fire brigade is present at the spot. More details are awaited. Pune Fire: Two Die After Massive Blaze Erupts in Two Godowns in Chinchwads Walhekarwadi Area (See Pic). Fire at Sassoon Hospital Maharashtra | Fire breaks out in Sassoon Hospital, Pune. Fire brigade is present at the spot. Details awaited. ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2024 (SocialLY brings you all the latest breaking news, viral trends and information from social media world, including Twitter, Instagram and Youtube. The above post is embeded directly from the user's social media account and LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body. The views and facts appearing in the social media post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY, also LatestLY does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.) Supreme Court dismissed a petition seeking contempt action against the Election Commission of India for not changing the forms which ask for Aadhaar numbers to enrol new voters. The petition said that despite the poll panels assurance in 2023 that Aadhaar numbers were not obligatory for new voter registration, the forms remained unchanged. Supreme Court declined to initiate contempt proceedings against the Election Commission while taking into note the ECIs statement that it was addressing the issue. Supreme Court Refuses To Entertain PIL Seeking Directions to Election Commission for Independent Audit of EVMs Source Code. Supreme Court Dismisses Petition Seeking Contempt Action Against EC Supreme Court dismisses a petition seeking contempt action against the Election Commission of India for not changing the forms which ask for Aadhaar numbers to enrol new voters. The petition says that despite the poll panels assurance in 2023 that Aadhaar numbers were not pic.twitter.com/4Kt2mSBZhv ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2024 (SocialLY brings you all the latest breaking news, viral trends and information from social media world, including Twitter, Instagram and Youtube. The above post is embeded directly from the user's social media account and LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body. The views and facts appearing in the social media post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY, also LatestLY does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.) London, February 9: The European Union has asked digital platforms like Facebook, Google, TikTok and X (Twitter) to give feedback on first-ever draft guidelines to maintain integrity of elections. The draft guidelines include recommendations to avoid democratic risks from generative AI and deepfakes, along with content moderation and political ads transparency. Online platforms are invited to give feedback to draft election guidelines under the EUs Digital Services Act (DSA) on the integrity of elections, said the European Commission. The public consultation is open for feedback until March 7. With the Digital Services Act, Europe is the first continent with a law to address systemic risks on online platforms that can have real-world negative effects on our democratic societies, said Thierry Breton, the EUs commissioner for internal market. Deepfake Scandal: Identify and Remove Deepfakes Else Face Legal Action, Government Reminds Intermediaries. 2024 is a significant year for elections. That is why we are making full use of all the tools offered by the DSA to ensure platforms comply with their obligations and are not misused to manipulate our elections, while safeguarding freedom of expression, Breton added. According to Euro News, these are the first guidelines to mitigate systemic risks on their platforms ahead of the European Parliament elections in June. "With the Digital Services Act, we have concrete tools to work together with online platforms. We can address the emerging online risks to electoral processes, like deep fakes, said Margrethe Vestager, the Commission's Vice President. We can enable people, in a safe way, to engage, discuss and make up their minds without illegal interference," Vestager added. Generative AI can notably be used to mislead voters or to manipulate electoral processes by creating and disseminating inauthentic, misleading synthetic content regarding political actors, false depiction of events, election polls, contexts or narratives, according to draft guidelines. Deepfake Video Conference Call: CFOs Digitally Recreated Avatar Costs Hong Kong Multinational Company USD 25.6 Million. Generative AI systems can also produce incorrect, incoherent, or fabricated information, so called hallucinations, that misrepresent the reality, and which can potentially mislead voters. The draft election security guidelines include the recommendation that tech giants put in place reasonable, proportionate, and effective mitigation measures tailored to risks related to the creation and potential large-scale dissemination of AI-generated fakes. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 09, 2024 10:27 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Questions surrounding President Joe Biden's age and fitness for office persist as the 81-year-old leader navigates both domestic and international challenges while actively engaging with voters for a potential second term. Recent verbal missteps and a new report examining his handling of classified information have reignited concerns about his cognitive abilities, particularly among his core supporters. In the past few days, President Joe Biden mistakenly referred to deceased European leaders Francois Mitterrand and Helmut Kohl when discussing recent conversations with global counterparts, according to CNN. The Joe Biden gaffe highlighted a key concern among supporters and brought attention to the issue of the president's cognitive health. Special counsel Robert Hur's recent report on Biden's handling of classified documents noted apparent memory lapses. During an interview last year, Biden reportedly struggled to recall when his son Beau died and the years he served as vice president. The White House and Biden's personal lawyer vehemently rejected these claims, citing the interview's timing in the aftermath of an October 7 attack on Israel. Polls consistently reflect that Joe Biden's age is a significant worry for voters aligned with his policies. A January NBC poll revealed that three-quarters of all voters, including half of Democrats, harbor concerns about Biden's physical or mental health. READ NEXT: Joe Biden Witnesses the Return of US Soldiers Killed in Jordan Drone Attack Joe Biden Gaffe Joe Biden, in a second instance within a week, erroneously recalled meeting with a deceased European leader during a recent Group of Seven (G7) summit, per The Hil. The incident occurred during a speech at a New York fundraiser where Biden recounted his first G7 meeting after assuming office, emphasizing the restoration of America's global presence. During the event, Biden shared a conversation with the president of France, who questioned the longevity of America's renewed commitment. Biden then referenced Helmut Kohl of Germany, who allegedly inquired about a hypothetical scenario involving an attack on the British Parliament. However, the factual discrepancy emerged as Helmut Kohl served as the Chancellor of Germany from 1982 to 1988 and passed away in 2017. Notably, Angela Merkel held the position of German Chancellor at the time of Biden's inaugural G7 meeting. This incident mirrored a similar occurrence during a Nevada campaign event on Sunday, where Biden mistakenly identified Francois Mitterrand as the current president of France instead of Emmanuel Macron. Mitterrand, who served as president from 1981-1995, passed away in 1996, while Macron assumed office in 2017 White House Responds to Joe Biden Gaffe White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre addressed concerns over Biden's recent verbal errors during a briefing, dismissing them as common mistakes that happen to many individuals in politics, the NY Post noted. She cited examples of other public figures misspeaking and emphasized that President Biden's occasional slips should not be overemphasized. The White House's departure from historical practice, not allowing President Biden's physician, Dr. Kevin O'Connor, to take questions from reporters, has fueled speculation. Annual reports on Biden's health have not mentioned cognitive evaluations, contributing to public apprehension about the president's well-being. Polls indicate that Joe Biden's age is a notable drawback, particularly in anticipation of a potential rematch against former President Donald Trump. A New York Times poll revealed that 71% of swing-state voters consider Biden "too old to be an effective president," compared to 39% who hold a similar view about Trump. The recent Joe Biden gaffe and concerns about his cognitive health have become focal points in the ongoing discourse about his fitness for office. As President Joe Biden continues to address both national and international issues, the scrutiny surrounding his age and mental acuity is likely to remain a significant aspect of public perception leading up to the next election. READ MORE: US Court Decides Donald Trump Doesn't Have Presidential Immunity This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Bert Hoover WATCH: Biden confuses French President Emmanuel Macron with ex-leader Mitterrand, who died in 1996 - From New York Post After two years of war, Ukraine's military is slowly getting depleted. However, the country is getting reinforcements to fight Russia, and they are coming from Colombia. This comes as Ukraine President Volodymir Zelenskyy's call for foreign fighters to help repel the Russian invaders. The Colombian soldiers going to Ukraine are hardened fighters from one of the world's longest-running conflicts, as these soldiers have been fighting communist rebels and Colombian drug cartels for a very long time. For its part, Ukraine is welcoming these Colombian fighters with open arms. These soldiers are not there on orders from their government, however, as an official deployment of troops would mean the Colombian government declared war against Russia. Instead, these battle-hardened soldiers are more like mercenaries or soldiers of fortune. One of these soldiers, a 32-year-old from Medellin, almost died after a Russian drone attack. "I thought I was going to die," he told the Associated Press, which noted that these Colombian fighters are insisting that they be identified by their military call signs because they feared for their safety and that of their families. The man who spoke with the AP is known as "Checho." "We got up and decided to run away from the position to save our lives," he added. "There was nowhere to hide." Checho was trying to save a colleague wounded in three days of heavy fighting against the Russians when the drones struck. He was hit by shrapnel that pierced his jawbone. Many of these Colombian fighters may have retired from active service. The country currently has 250,000 military servicemen, with over 10,000 retiring every year. Hundreds of these retirees are heading to Ukraine to join the fight. It was reported that they may make four times as much as experienced non-commissioned officers earn in Colombia, possibly even more. Economic Troubles Pushing Colombian Soldiers To Fight in Ukraine Vs. Russia As to why these soldiers head to Ukraine to fight Russians, many of them have admitted that it is because of financial difficulties, using their expertise in combat to earn money in a foreign conflict. READ MORE: Colombia: Brother of Powerful Senator Pleads Guilty to Drug Smuggling Charge in US Some of these soldiers have died, with their bodies now arriving in Colombia. One of these fighters who died went to Ukraine after a bank threatened to repossess his home in Colombia, while another joined the fight after losing money due to failing to enter the US via the US-Mexico border. "I would venture to say that not one Colombian has gone there to defend democracy," Christian Perez, a retired Colombian Army sniper, told the New York Times. "I don't believe they have even heard of Ukraine before the war. Everything comes down to economic motivations." Colombia Government Previously Condemned Russia and Sided With Ukraine While the Colombian government is not getting directly involved in Ukraine, it has sided with the Volodymir Zelenskyy government in its fight against the Vladimir Putin-led invasion. According to AA, Colombian President Gustavo Petro blasted Russia in June of last year after a Russian missile attack on the city of Kramatorsk killed 11 people and injured 56 more. It was noted that this was the first time Petro spoke about Russia's actions. Three Colombians were caught in the missile attack, leading to them being in critical condition. "Russia has attacked three defenseless Colombian civilians. It thus violates the protocols of war. The Foreign Ministry must deliver a diplomatic note of protest," said Petro. "We await the safe and sound return to their homes of Sergio, Hector and Catalina." READ NEXT: Colombia Vice President Francia Marquez Targeted With Roadside Bomb This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Rick Martin WATCH: The Colombians fighting and dying in Ukraine - Associated Press In a tragic escalation of Haiti's ongoing crisis, at least five agents of the country's armed environmental agency, the Security Brigade for Protected Areas (BSAP), were killed in a shootout with national police in Port-au-Prince on Wednesday, as reported by the police trade union. Haiti police has not yet responded to requests for additional details, including information about potential police casualties during the exchange. This clash unfolded against a backdrop of widespread Haiti protest, leading up to the promised resignation date of the current unelected Prime Minister Ariel Henry on February 7, Reuters reports. Traditionally, this date marks the inauguration of Haitian presidents. The recent events transpired amid a grave humanitarian crisis, with Haiti police contending against heavily armed gangs that control a significant portion of Haiti's capital, forcing hundreds of thousands to flee their homes in fear. READ NEXT: Arrest Warrants Issued Vs. Haiti Ex-Presidents, Prime Ministers Over Corruption Shooting Details in Port-au-Prince The fatal shooting occurred in the Laboule community of Port-au-Prince, according to Lionel Lazarre, head of the police union Synapoha. Lazarre, though not present at the scene, was briefed by involved officers and initially reported four casualties, later updating the count to five. Lazarre claimed that the environmental agents initiated gunfire after Haiti police instructed them to drop their weapons, leading to retaliatory shots from officers. Independent verification of this claim is challenging, as the Security Brigade for Protected Areas was unavailable for immediate comment. Recent scrutiny of the environmental division heightened after clashes between its agents in northern Haiti and the police. A police official, who remained anonymous and was not present at the scene, corroborated the fatal shootings in a separate interview with the Associated Press. Garry Desrosiers, the spokesman for Haiti's National Police, has not responded to requests for comments. Haiti police were observed towing a pickup truck marked with the environmental agency's name and bearing several bullet holes on its windshield. Clashes were also reported in other parts of Port-au-Prince, with officials dispersing protesters using tear gas and live bullets. Prime Minister Ariel Henry's Address Amids Haiti Protest Prime Minister Ariel Henry, facing mounting violent Haiti protest demanding his removal, addressed the nation on Thursday, urging Haitians to unite and "save" the country, according to BBC. Henry assumed the role just 24 hours before the assassination of former President Moise and has since been in office, pledging to facilitate delayed elections. Despite a signed agreement in December 2022, promising elections in 2023, Henry cited escalating gang violence, preventing the realization of free and fair elections. The failure to conduct elections has left Haiti without any elected government official since January 2023. The situation has been exacerbated by the return of Guy Philippe, a former Haiti police chief involved in the removal of former President Bertrand Aristide two decades ago. Philippe, repatriated from the United States, has been actively calling for a rebellion against Prime Minister Ariel Henry, intensifying the already tense atmosphere. As Haiti grapples with political turmoil, violence, and displacement, the ongoing crisis poses significant challenges to achieving stability and restoring democratic governance. The international community closely watches developments in the troubled nation, concerned about the repercussions on the welfare of its citizens and regional stability. READ MORE: Nicaragua Grants Panama's Ricardo Martinelli Asylum This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Bert Hoover WATCH: Third day of Haiti protests witnesses deadly shootings - From Associated Press Severe flooding in California and snow in Arizona are the results of the current winter storms all over the US, and it is expected that more snow and rain will come after a "false spring" was reported, with the cold weather expected to continue even further. The National Weather Service reported that the storm system that impacted parts of California is heading east and is expected to bring "possible isolated flooding along the Mogollon Rim of northern Arizona." Rain is also expected to hit Utah, with lower elevation areas also getting more snow. Light rain is expected in the eastern portion of Texas, with showers expected to spread across the Mississippi Valley by Friday, with a cold front slowly heading east, according to USA Today. In the Plains region, as well as the Upper Midwest, snow is still prevalent, as 6 inches of snow is expected to blanket the area. This is caused by a system heading toward James Bay, Canada, and it is expected to bring heavy snowfall, with Montana possibly receiving over a foot of snow. The areas from Eastern Iowa to northwestern Illinois are also expected to receive some rain showers with a few isolated storms. Residents living there are expected to deal with lightning, hail, and gusty winds as the primary hazards. US Winter Storms Cause Snow in Arizona and Made California Muddy Weird weather patterns have wreaked havoc in much of the US, including usually sunny California and usually hot and dry Arizona. Arizona's northern portion recorded double-digits of snowfall, covering the area with over two feet of snow, and according to the Associated Press, more is expected to come. It was so bad in the area that snow, ice, and whiteout conditions forced partial closures of Interstates 40 and 17 in the largest city in northern Arizona, Flagstaff. Many residents anticipated these road shutdowns, however. READ MORE: Arizona: Kari Lake Loses Again as State Supreme Court Rejects Bid To Hear Election Lawsuit School has been canceled in some parts of northern Arizona, including Northern Arizona University. Meanwhile, in the state's desert regions to the south, flights from the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport were temporarily shut down for a brief period because of a low cloud ceiling. The ground stop lasted for around 45 minutes, delaying hundreds of flights as rain lashed Phoenix. Over in California, the state finally saw some clear skies after days of wind, rain, and snow. However, this also made portions of the state very muddy, with destructive mudslides being reported around Los Angeles, which recorded 500 of them. 'Super' El Nino Has Arrived Amid US Winter Storms The US is in the midst of El Nino, which has now reportedly attained "historically strong" status, according to federal scientists, who also warned that its counterpart La Nina will develop in its place later this year. The weather pattern has caused much damage to the southern portion of the US, from California to Florida. USA Today noted that it is expected to last through April, only to be replaced by La Nina soon after. With El Nino, there was an increased chance of above-normal tornado activity, with La Nina possibly boosting hurricane activity as well. READ NEXT: Donald Trump Caught On Tape Talking About Classified Document He Kept This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Rick Martin WATCH: Tampa weather | Thursday morning forecast - FOX 13 Tampa Bay A heartbreaking incident unfolded on Tuesday afternoon when a 17-year-old boy, identified as Chase Ditter, was shot and killed by a police officer during a welfare check at a residence in Columbus, Nebraska, according to USA Today. The Nebraska State Patrol Special Investigations Team is now diligently probing the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident. Columbus, a city on Nebraska's eastern side with a population of approximately 24,000, lies around 90 miles west of Omaha. State Patrol Provides Details Following Nebraska Teen's Fatal Shooting The Columbus Police Department had initiated the welfare check in response to a report of potential self-harm concerning the Nebraska teen Chase Ditter, per Nebraska State Patrol's website. Nebraska police officers arrived at the residence located in the 3600 block of 39th Avenue in Columbus at around 1 PM. The encounter with the subject, Nebraska teen Chase Ditter, escalated when it was discovered that he was in possession of a knife. READ NEXT: Nebraska Teen Dead Following Early Sunday Shooting During the interaction, a Nebraska police officer discharged their duty weapon, striking Ditter. Simultaneously, another officer deployed a taser in an attempt to manage the situation. Unfortunately, the Nebraska teen succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The Columbus Police Department promptly requested the Nebraska State Patrol to conduct an investigation into the incident, with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) Special Investigations Team leading the in-custody death investigation. Both officers involved in the tragic event have been on administrative leave pending the outcome of the ongoing NSP investigation. Community Response and School Measures Columbus Public Schools took precautionary measures following the incident, placing two nearby schools, Lost Creek Elementary, and Columbus High School, in "secure status" after being alerted by the Nebraska police about the nearby activity. Nicole Anderson, a spokesperson for Columbus Public Schools, revealed that the victim, Chase Ditter, was a student at Columbus High School and was set to graduate in May, NBC News reports. Describing the Nebraska teen as an "extremely intelligent and accomplished student," his obituary highlighted his plans to attend the Rochester Institute of Technology in the fall for a cybersecurity master's program. The young talent served as the team programmer for his school's robotics team held an officer position in the Skills USA program and participated in multiple math competitions. Ditter was not only academically inclined but also an enthusiastic volunteer, a traveler, and someone who had embarked on flight training, as mentioned in his obituary. Despite facing challenges with depression since the pandemic, Ditter had sought help from healthcare professionals and was "very much looking forward to his future." The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting questions about the circumstances that led to the use of deadly force during a welfare check. As the State Patrol continues its investigation, the grieving community mourns the loss of a promising Nebraska teen, highlighting the importance of comprehensive mental health support and crisis intervention in law enforcement responses. READ MORE: Nevada Man in Custody After Climbing Las Vegas Sphere This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Bert Hoover WATCH: Nebraska State Patrol investigates after Columbus officer shoots, kills 17-year-old - From KETV NewsWatch 7 National Security and Defense Council Secretary Oleksiy Danilov said that there were no Ukrainian prisoners of war on board the Il-76 military transport plane that crashed on January 24 in Belgorod region. Ukraine does not have enough information whether the prisoners who were supposed to be exchanged that day are alive. ADVERTISIMENT He said this in an interview with Babel. The representative of the National Security and Defense Council also urged not to be categorical in conclusions and not to claim that the IL-76 was shot down. "Indeed, an airplane crashed in Russia. But I can tell you for sure that there were no Ukrainian prisoners on board," the politician assured. He clarified that he was saying this based on the experience that Ukraine gained after the UIA plane crash in Tehran on January 8, 2022, as well as what happened next. "If this had really happened, the amount of biological material - what is called, let's say, the dead (the Russians claimed that there were 65 Ukrainian prisoners of war on board - Ed. And that field would be all red with blood," Danilov explained. ADVERTISIMENT He is convinced that if this were the case, the Russians would have taken advantage of the situation and filmed it to use it for a propaganda TV picture. The NSDC Secretary emphasized that this was not the case, and in the modern world, nothing can be hidden. "They had this whole story prepared. So let's wait, we just have to wait. If this was happening, then, believe me, Lavrov would be screaming at the UN and they would show it all. They have nothing to show, because if it really happened, there would be a completely different picture," Danilov said. As reported by OBOZ.UA, a veteran of the Russian-Ukrainian war, Major of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksiy Hetman, noted that there are several strange things in the story of the crash of the Russian Il-76 that are difficult to explain. He suggested that it was a planned information operation by the Kremlin, which could be aimed at discrediting Ukraine in the eyes of its allies. ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Ekiti State University is a state government-owned and operated Nigerian state university. It was founded back in 1982 as the Obafemi Awolowo University. The institution offers various programmes from its nine faculties. Here is everything you need to know about the Ekiti State University portal, including current fees, courses offered and their cut-off marks. Ekiti State University was ranked 3rd best state university in Nigeria in 2021 by webometrics. Photo: pexels.com, @Yan Krukau, @eksu.uni (modified by author) Source: UGC Ekiti State University's main campus is in Ado Ekiti, the capital city of Ekiti State, Nigeria. The institution aims to produce graduates to handle contemporary socioeconomic and environmental challenges. Overview of Ekiti State University Ekiti State University was established in 1982 as Obafemi Awolowo University, Ado-Ekiti, but in 1985, it was renamed as Ondo State University. The university was later reestablished as Ekiti State University in 1999 following the creation of Ekiti State from the old Ondo State. EKSU offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. Like many universities, this Nigerian university is involved in research activities across different fields. Ekiti State University portal Ekiti State University portal offers reliable communication, teaching, and training between learning institutions and their students. The portal is used for various purposes, such as finding and updating student profiles, checking admission, and paying fees. How do you log in to your Ekiti State University portal? Ekiti State University portal. Photo: eksuportal.eksu.edu.ng Source: UGC To log into the portal, follow the steps below: Open the official Ekiti State University website. Under "Students", click on "Students login". Enter the JAMB registration or matric number as your username and "password1" as the default password, and click "Login". How can you apply for Ekiti State University admission? A section of the Ekiti State University application form. Photo: eksuportal.eksu.edu.ng Source: UGC To get admitted to the institution, you must make an online application. Follow the steps below to apply. Open the admission Ekiti State University portal. Under "Admission", click on "Apply for Admission". Enter the required details. These include your name, email address and password. Your account will have been created successfully. Agree to the terms and conditions and click "Create". A confirmation email will be sent to your email. Check it out, and then proceed as directed. You will be required to log in to the portal again to complete your application. Follow the prompts to make the application. How do I check your admission status? How to check your admission status. Photo: eksuportal.eksu.edu.ng Source: UGC The Ekiti State University admission status checking portal is the same one you applied to. Follow these simple steps: Visit the admission portal. Click on "Admission" and then "Check Admission Status". Select the application session and your admission year. Enter your registration number/form number/email address as your user name and click "Check Status". What are the courses offered in Eksu? The Ekiti State University courses are grouped into nine different faculties. Below is a breakdown of the various courses being offered currently. 1. Faculty of Agricultural Science The faculty has six programmes which run for five years. Agricultural Economics and Extension Services Animal Production & Health Sciences Crop, Horticulture and Landscape Design Soil Resources and Environmental Management Forestry Resources and Wildlife Management Fisheries and Aquaculture Management 2. Faculty of Arts The Faculty of Arts offers the following programmes. Religious Studies Islamic Religious Studies/Arabic Christian Religious Studies English & Literary Studies History & International Studies Linguistics & Nigeria Languages Theatre and Media Arts French Yoruba Philosophy 3. Faculty of Education This faculty offers various courses. They include: English Education French Education Yoruba Education Christian Religious Studies Education Arabic Studies Education History Biology Education Mathematics Education Chemistry Education Basic/Integrated Science Education Computer Science Education Physics Education Social Studies Economics Education Political Science Education Geography Education Agricultural Education Library and Information Science Mechanical Technology Building and Woodwork Technology Electrical/Electronic Technology Business Education Educational Technology 4. Faculty of Engineering Ekiti State University courses are grouped into nine different faculties. Photo: pexels.com, @Anamul Rezwan Source: UGC The Faculty of Engineering offers the following courses. Civil Engineering Computer Engineering Electrical/Electronic Engineering Mechanical Engineering 5. Faculty of Law For individuals who are interested in law, the programmes run for five years. The faculty remains focused on ensuring academic and professional excellence. 6. Faculty of Management Sciences The Faculty of Management Sciences has several courses. They include: Accounting Banking and Finance Business Administration Actuarial Science Entrepreneurship Insurance Cooperative Studies Marketing Industrial Relations and Personnel Management 7. Faculty of Medicine Below is a list of courses offered at Ekiti State University under the Faculty of Medicine. Medicine and Surgery Nursing Anatomy Physiology 8. Faculty of Sciences The courses offered under the Faculty of Sciences include: Biochemistry Chemistry Industrial Chemistry Geology Geo-Physics Mathematics Computer Science Statistics Microbiology Physics Plant Sciences and Biotechnology Science Laboratory Technology Zoology 9. Faculty of Social Science The Faculty of Social Science offers the following courses: Economics Geography and Planning Science Tourism Studies Psychology Political Science Sociology Environmental Management What is the cut-off mark for Ekiti State University? To gain admission at Ekiti State University you have to meet the required cut-off mark . Photo: pexels.com, @Andrea Piacquadio Source: UGC The general Ekiti State University cut-off mark for the 2024/2025 admission session is 180. Some specific courses require higher scores. They include: Medicine: 250 250 Law: 240 240 Nursing: 220 Applicants who did not initially select Ekiti State University as their choice but attained a score of 140 or higher in the 2023 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) are eligible to apply for admission. How much is the school fees of Ekiti State University? Ekiti State University school fees for the 2024/2025 academic session is not yet available. However, you can get an idea of the costs by looking at the approved tuition fees for the 2020/2021 session. During that year, annual fees ranged from N60,000 to N356,000, with an additional N4,000 portal management fee. Is Ekiti State University form still out? The Ekiti State University form for the 2023/2024 admission is closed. The Post-UTME screening exercise commenced in September 2023. Is Ekiti State University good? Ekiti State University is a public university, which makes it more affordable for any Nigerian to pursue a programme. The institution has also produced successful graduates in various fields, offering potential networking opportunities. Ekiti State University offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across different disciplines. The institution has modern infrastructure, well-equipped laboratories, libraries, and other facilities. Legit.ng recently published an article about the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) courses and fees. NOUN is the largest university in Nigeria by student enrollment and national spread. It is the only institution licensed by the National Universities Commission to offer single-mode open and distance education to learners in Nigeria. Get to learn more about NOUN courses and their fees. Source: Legit.ng UPDATE: Investigators focus on suspect in southeastern Pa. fire and shooting that left 6 dead, 2 hurt Six members of a family including three children are feared dead, an official said Thursday, from a fire at a house in suburban Philadelphia that went down in flames as two police officers who responded to the scene were shot and injured. Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer told reporters that a human torso and a rifle were recovered from the home in East Lansdowne, but he cautioned the probe is in its early stages. Stollsteimer said the shooter may have been inside the house when it was destroyed by fire Wednesday afternoon. He said the family residing there has the surname of Le but otherwise did not release names. The fire did so much damage it may not be possible to ever determine how it started or who did the shooting, Stollsteimer said. If we ever determine it, it wont be any time soon, Stollsteimer said outside a hospital where he was preparing for the release of one of the wounded officers. Investigators work at the scene where two police officers were injured while responding to reported standoff in East Lansdowne, Pa., Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024.AP File Photo/Matt Rourke Lansdowne Officer David Schiazza, 54, was injured in the leg and expected to be released Thursday. East Lansdowne Officer John Meehan, 44, required lengthy surgery to his arm and could be released by Friday, Stollsteimer said. Both have more than two decades with their respective departments. Firefighters remained on the scene Thursday as wisps of smoke were visible from the charred remains of the house. Heavy machinery moved into the neighborhood as investigators were examining the home. An excavator was being used to tear down the walls left standing after the fire gutted the building, scooping debris to be sifted by investigators. A medical examiners office vehicle was there. Officers responded to the house in East Lansdowne around 3:45 p.m. after a 911 call reporting that an 11-year-old girl had been shot. Stollsteimer said he was not sure who called 911. They immediately came under fire. Officers from Upper Darby saved their lives by dragging them out of danger, he said. Authorities believe the home was set on fire by someone inside. Intense flames were initially seen rising from the roof and top floor of the three-story home before spreading to the lower levels, largely gutting the structure. There was no more information about the child who was reported wounded. Upper Darby Superintendent Timothy Bernhardt described a volatile and dangerous scene when officers from his department responded to the home and were able to rescue the two wounded officers. All officers that were on scene initially were taking on fire, and then when they removed themselves from it, there was no more gunfire at that point, Bernhardt said. East Lansdowne is about 5 miles (8 kilometers) west of downtown Philadelphia. By MATT ROURKE and TASSANEE VEJPONGSA Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com. Authorities suspect that family members who died in a fire outside Philadelphia were killed by a relative who also shot and wounded two police officers, a prosecutor said Friday. Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer said at a news conference that six sets of remains have been recovered from the ashes of a fire that destroyed the home in East Lansdowne on Wednesday. He said Canh Le, 43, is believed to have killed his niece and probably killed the others as well, and that Le also died. Our assumption is that they were shot by gunfire and then there was a fire set, but we have no idea whether or not thats true, he said. Gunfire could be heard during a 911 call, and Stollsteimer said Les mother told authorities he shot one of her grandchildren. Les mother escaped the house to seek safety and summon help. He said surviving family members have been in shock, and no motive has been identified. They dont really have any idea, he just went haywire, he said. Investigators work at the scene where two police officers were injured while responding to reported standoff in East Lansdowne, Pa., Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024.Heather Khalifa/The Philadelphia Inquirer via AP Margie McAboy, spokeswoman for the Delaware County district attorneys office, confirmed the victims are believed to be Canh Les brother, Xuong Le, 40; Xuong Les wife, Britni McLaughlin Le, 37; and the couples three children. Stollsteimer said remains believed to be Canh Les were found near a gun that was also recovered from the fire remnants. Court records show that Canh Le was arrested in 2006 in Delaware County and charged with making terroristic threats, trespassing and disorderly conduct. Details of the incident were not immediately available, but the first charge was later dropped and he was put in a diversion program on the two lesser charges, leading him to serve 32 hours of community service and pay $1,400 in fines during a year of probation. Authorities say police encountered gunfire as they responded to a call for a child eventually identified as the niece who was shot Wednesday afternoon at the home. The structure went up in flames as two police officers were shot and injured. One of the wounded officers, 44-year-old John Meehan of the East Lansdowne department, was greeted by fellow officers and well-wishers with applause, handshakes and hugs as he was discharged Friday after surgery for a left forearm wound. Lansdowne Officer David Schiazza, 54, was released from a hospital on Thursday after being treated for a leg wound. Stollsteimer has said officers from Upper Darby saved the lives of the two wounded officers by dragging them to safety. East Lansdowne is about 5 miles (8 kilometers) west of downtown Philadelphia. By MARYCLAIRE DALE and MARK SCOLFORO Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com. In an interview with American TV host Tucker Carlson, Russian President Vladimir Putin made a ludicrous fake about the father of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He said that in an alleged conversation with Zelenskyy, he asked how he could "support neo-Nazis" when he had a "veteran father" who fought with the Nazis during World War II. ADVERTISIMENT However, Zelenskyy was born in 1947, two years after the war ended. Putin's quote was not only circulated in the form of a video fragment of the interview, but also on the Russian president's website. Reflecting on the "Nazism in Ukraine" that exists in his mind, Putin enlisted father of Zelenskyy, who was born two years after the end of World War II, on December 23, 1947, as a veteran. "His (Zelenskyy's - Ed.) father fought with the Nazis during World War II, and I once talked to him about it. I said: "Volodya, what are you doing? Why are you supporting neo-Nazis in Ukraine today when your father fought against fascism? He is a veteran." I can't say what he said, it's a separate topic, and I think it's incorrect," the dictator said. ADVERTISIMENT Earlier, OBOZ.UA reported that Putin in an interview with Carlson got confused in his fictions about the creation of Ukraine. During the two-hour conversation, he named Stalin, Lenin, and the Poles as the "creators of Ukraine". At the same time, according to the dictator, "the creation of the Russian state was in 862." By Laura Oltman Residents of Warren County may remember the three major Delaware River floods that occurred within a year and a half in 2005 and 2006. The alarming frequency sparked concern, leading many to point fingers at reservoirs on the Delaware River, including Merrill Creek. These reservoirs are designed to regulate water levels in the river, mitigating both floods and low-water events. Critics argued that managers kept water levels in these reservoirs too high, forcing them to release excess water during the floods and contributing to the problem. While the accusations may not have been fully substantiated at the time, they highlight the potential impact of this private enterprise on lives and property throughout the Delaware River watershed. Several rain events in December 2023 and January 2024 caused the Delaware River to rise near flood stage. These were not exceptional events like hurricanes, but rather typical rainfall. Given the expected increase in rain due to climate change, flooding poses a growing threat to New Jersey. Residents along the Delaware River have reason to question whether logging is the wisest choice for managing the land around the reservoir. Tree removal, particularly large trees, is a well-known contributor to flooding. For this reason, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection prohibits vegetation removal in riparian buffers within flood hazard areas. However, an exception exists for commercial logging. This means logging falls under agricultural use and bypasses flood hazard area regulation. Recently, Merrill Creek implemented a plan to harvest timber around the reservoir. Logging poses numerous threats to water quality. Run-off from logged areas can cause erosion, washing mud and silt into sensitive trout production streams. This deprives fish and amphibians of oxygen and pollutes drinking water sources for the entire region. Many argue that private property owners have the right to log their land and defend Merrill Creek as a private enterprise. However, its important to remember that the consortium of power companies that owns Merrill Creek also controls water levels in the Delaware River, directly impacting numerous other private property owners. Is the financial gain from timber harvesting truly more important than protecting the well-being of others? An alternative exists. New Jersey now allows private property owners to gain agricultural assessment for their forests without cutting down trees. Instead, they can create a forestry plan that focuses on ecological restoration. This kind of plan creates benefits like water quality and quantity protection, species diversity, and invasive species removal. This approach allows landowners to enhance the value of their forested land while receiving tax breaks, all without harming the property of others. Isnt this a better option for Merrill Creek? After all, wild lands are not just wild; they are working lands with immense potential. Laura Oltman is with Support Roaring Rock Park, a group that has lobbied to stop logging operations at the park in Washington Township, Warren County. She lives in Phillipsburg. Laois members of the Irish Countrywomen's Association (ICA) are celebrating after a Portlaoise roundabout was named after one of their most important members ever. The Lucy Franks N80 roundabout was formally unveiled this week, named in honour of a former national President from Laois, and a founder member of the Associated Country Women of the World. It is located at Fairgreen on the Mountmellick N80 road, where a contingent of proud ICA women from Portlaoise, Mountmellick and Castletown guilds braved the weather to launch it, in conjunction with Laois County Council. All ICA members at the naming ceremony of the Lucy Franks Roundabout. on the N80 Mountmellick Road in Portlaoise. Ann Payne is a member of Portlaoise ICA Guild. "Yesterday was an auspicious occasion for Portlaoise Guild and Castletown Guild. "It was the first time that Portlaoise County Council named a roundabout in honour of a famous ICA National President and 1st President of Castletown Guild Lucy Franks. "She was also a founder member of the Associated Country Women of the World (ACWW) and National President for 10 years. "We had representatives from Portlaoise, Castletown, and Mountmellick Guilds to observe also Vice President Betty Gorman of the Laois Federation. "Thanks to President Marian Lawless Portlaoise Guild for coordinating the event with the Laois County Council and all those Guild members that were present. It's a day to be remembered," Ms Payne said. Marian Lawless President of Portlaoise Guild and Lucy Conroy President of Castletown Guild at the Ceremony. The Lucy Franks roundabout is one of seven new roundabouts on the northern link road around Portlaoise to get names. The other six are called after more groundbreaking historic Laois figures. They include William Dargan who designed many Irish Rail lines and stations, and Bartholemew Mosse who founded the Rotunda Hospital. Laois County Council Director of Services for Roads, Simon Walton, told the Leinster Express / Laois Live how the naming came about. "The naming of the Roundabouts followed on from the naming of roundabouts on the Portlaoise Southern Circular Road in 2019/2020, which were named after the Seven Septs of County Laois. " This was done to expose/highlight details of County Laoiss heritage, to prompt an individuals pursuit of additional information regarding arising from the roundabout names and to provide prompts for school-related projects regarding local history and heritage etc. "Similarly, in 2023, a proposal was brought forward to name the various Roundabouts on the Western Orbital Route, as outlined on the attached map. In this phase, the Roundabouts have been named in recognition of Laois-born people, who have made a significant contribution to the influencing of local/national matters, in areas such as community development, the economy, education, science and medicine. "Lucy Franks, a Laois woman, born in 1878, died in 1964, is credited with saving the United Irishwomen, renaming it to the Irish Countrywomens Association (ICA) in 1935," Mr Walton said. Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO) is launching a photo competition in Kildare and nationwide: My Favourite Waterbody. LAWPRO is a national shared service working on behalf of the 31 local authorities in Ireland coordinating efforts to achieve good water quality across the country. Speaking at the competition launch, Anthony Coleman, Director of Services at LAWPRO said: I am delighted to launch this nationwide competition to find out the peoples favourite waterbodies. "Ireland is bountiful with iconic waterways and scenic landscapes, and we know how important these waters and wetlands are to people. We want you to take part by submitting a photo of your favourite waterbody in Kildare to be in with a chance of winning a prize. The competition is open to anyone across Ireland, entrants under 18 years of age must be submitted by a parent/ guardian. If your photo includes anyone aged under 16 years of age, only a parent/guardian may submit the content. The overall winner will receive a 500 voucher for Powerscourt Hotel Resort and Spa in Co Wicklow along with an A3 framed print of your winning photo and there will also be regional prizes of framed prints. The top photos will be featured in LAWPROs 2025 calendar and winners will receive a calendar along with their prize. The closing date for entries to My favourite waterbody is 5pm on Friday the 15th of March 2024. To enter the competition please email a photo to photocomp@lawaters.ie as an attachment along with your name, age, address and the location of your submitted photo. For full competition rules and T&Cs visit: Press Release: Local Authority Waters Programme Launches National Photography Competition - Local Authority Water Programme (lawaters.ie) Traffic delays are to be expected this morning following a crash on the M6 yesterday afternoon. The busy road has remained closed between junctions 3 and 4 eastbound, following the collision as a technical examination of the scene is being conducted. According to An Garda Siochana, delays are to be expected for those travelling in the area, however local diversions are in place. Gardai advise motorists anyone travelling to Dublin on the M6 will be diverted at Tyrellspass and can come back on the motorway at Rochfortbridge. Gardai are appealing for witnesses after yesterday afternoon, Thursday, February 8 a single-vehicle collision occurred around 4pm on the M6. A female child, who was a passenger in the vehicle, was rushed to Children's Health Ireland at Temple Street with serious injuries. No other serious injuries have been reported at this time. A significant tracing operation is underway as the man who died in Mullingar Hospital after contracting measles following a trip to the UK was probably infectious for a number of days, it has emerged. This exercise will aim to find people who may have come into contact with the deceased man, including bus passengers. "HSE public health teams, along with the HSE Measles National Incident Management Team (IMT), are taking all necessary public health actions in relation to the case. The HSE Measles IMT was established in response to a recent rise in measles cases in the UK and Europe," the HSE has outlined. The death of 48-year-old from Co Westmeath was a devastating blow for his family and friends. The man was diagnosed with measles after presenting at the hospital. He subsequently became very ill. According to the Irish Independent, is understood that hospital staff and people who travelled on the same bus as the deceased are among those being sought on behalf of public health doctors. The newspaper outlined that they are considered contacts and it is possible that they may have been exposed to the virus. The HSE offers MMR vaccine to protect against measles to all children as part of its childhood immunisation schedule. The HSE also offers a catch up MMR option for children aged 10 years and under who may have missed out on vaccination. The HSE will keep the public informed of further measures and, in the meantime, anyone with concerns should contact their GP. We have published our Weekly Infectious Disease Report. It has summaries of infectious diseases reported in Ireland during Week 5, 2024, broken down by: HSE area Age Sex Read the report herehttps://t.co/rNtSUfOAJy pic.twitter.com/pbo8YYVGiS HSE Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) (@hpscireland) February 8, 2024 There were four measles cases reported in 2023, two case reported in 2022, no cases were reported in 2021 and five cases were reported in 2020. There were no deaths reported in any of those years. There have been nine suspected cases of measles in Ireland in the most recent week for which data is available. Former JAXA Astronaut Dr. Soichi Noguchi Joins Voyager Space Advisory Board DENVER, Feb. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Voyager Space (Voyager), a global leader in space exploration, today announced Dr. Soichi Noguchi has been appointed to the company's advisory board. Dr. Noguchi is an aeronautical engineer, former Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut, and the first astronaut in the world to accomplish three different methods of Earth entry from space. His addition to the Voyager advisory board is another essential step in broadening the company's space exploration efforts and building a better future for humanity. A native of Japan, Dr. Noguchi is a revered leader in the aerospace and engineering fields. In addition to being a crew member and flight engineer on several International Space Station (ISS) missions, Dr. Noguchi participated in the Space Shuttle Discovery mission STS-114, conducted three extravehicular activities (EVAs) to demonstrate in-flight repair techniques on the Shuttle's Thermal Protection System tiles in orbit, and flew as the first Japanese "left-seater" on the Soyuz spacecraft in 2009. He was the first astronaut to perform EVAs on the ISS and most recently became the first non-American to go to space aboard SpaceX's Crew Dragon spacecraft in 2020. "Dr. Noguchi's firsthand experience in space and extensive background in aeronautical engineering are just two of the many reasons why he is an exceptional fit for our advisory board," said Dylan Taylor, CEO and Chairman, Voyager Space. "Dr. Noguchi joins our team at a pivotal time, and we are glad to have him on board." After 27 years as an astronaut, Dr. Noguchi took on several new positions including President of Mirai Space Co., Ltd., Executive Chief Fellow of the Institute for International Socio-Economic Studies, Executive Adviser of IHI Corporation, Sustainability Advisory committee of Mitsubishi Corporation, and Project Professor at both the University of Tokyo and Ritsumeikan University. He holds a bachelor's and master's degree in aeronautical engineering and a doctorate in advanced engineering from the University of Tokyo. "I look forward to bringing my experience and perspective to the Voyager Space team as we continue to push boundaries in space exploration," said Dr. Noguchi. "Voyager is focused on being a globally-oriented company, and I am honored to help guide this team in their continued success." Dr. Noguchi has received several awards and accolades over the course of his career including two NASA Spaceflight medals, two NASA Distinguished Public Service Medals, the Medal of Friendship from the Russian Federation, and the JAXA Outstanding Service Award among several others. About Voyager Space Voyager Space is dedicated to building a better future for humanity in space and on Earth. With over 35 years of spaceflight heritage and over 2,000 successful missions, Voyager is powering the commercial space revolution. Voyager delivers exploration, technology, and defense solutions to a global customer base that includes civil and national security agencies, commercial companies, academic and research institutions, and more. Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains "forward-looking statements." All statements, other than statements of historical fact, including those with respect to Voyager Space, Inc.'s (the "Company's") mission statement and growth strategy, are "forward-looking statements." Although the Company's management believes that such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot guarantee that such expectations are, or will be, correct. These forward-looking statements involve many risks and uncertainties, which could cause the Company's future results to differ materially from those anticipated. Potential risks and uncertainties include, among others, general economic conditions and conditions affecting the industries in which the Company operates; the uncertainty of regulatory requirements and approvals; and the ability to obtain necessary financing on acceptable terms or at all. Readers should not place any undue reliance on forward-looking statements since they involve these known and unknown uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond the Company's control and 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. SOURCE Voyager Space 8 february 2024 at 17:00 News published onand distributed by: LAZ Wins Contract to Manage Parking Services at Denver International Airport The five-year agreement, in partnership with Nationwide Parking Services, adds the largest airport parking operation in North America to LAZ's growing list of airport clients nationwide HARTFORD, Conn., Feb. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- LAZ Parking, the largest, fastest-growing privately owned parking operator in the United States, is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a five-year contract, in partnership with Nationwide Parking Services, to manage parking services at Denver International Airport (DEN). The management services agreement encompasses two parking garages and seven surface lots with a total of 50,000 spaces, making DEN the largest airport parking operation in North America, in terms of revenue and parking spaces. LAZ Wins Contract to Manage Parking Services at Denver International Airport "Being selected to manage an airport parking operation of this size and scope is an acknowledgement of our reputation in the parking industry and the hard work members of our LAZ team, at all levels, do every day," said Alan Lazowski, Chairman, CEO, and Founder of LAZ Parking. "We are excited about this partnership with Nationwide Parking Services, because we know they take as much pride as LAZ does in delivering best-in-class service to clients and customers." Under the agreement, which has two, one-year renewal options, LAZ oversees year round, 24/7 parking operations, providing services that include revenue collection and reporting, traffic control, and courtesy emergency vehicle services, such as jump starts, lock-outs, and air for tires. Nationwide Parking Services provides parking and mobility management, operations, technology consulting and installation, shuttle transportation, and event parking throughout the public and private sectors. The Denver-based company manages surface lots in downtown Denver, Littleton, and Colorado Springs, Colorado, and partners with national operators such as LAZ for a variety of ventures. It has provided services at DEN for almost 30 years and also serves Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Oakland International Airport (OAK), John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), and Dallas Love Field (DAL). "I cannot think of a better partner in this venture than Nationwide," said Kendra Petty, LAZ Executive Vice President, Airports. "As a locally-owned business, they know the region well and have decades of experience serving DEN and the Greater Denver and Colorado markets." Since it opened in Feb. 1995, DEN has become one of the busiest airports in the world. In 2022, over 69 million passengers traveled through airport, which generates about $36.4 billion for the region annually and is the primary economic engine for the state of Colorado. DEN operates on 53 square miles (34,000 acres, or 137.8 square kilometers) of land, an area twice the size of Manhattan, and larger than the city boundaries of Boston, Miami or San Francisco. In relation to other airports, Hartsfield-Jackson in Atlanta, Chicago O'Hare, Los Angeles International and Dallas Fort Worth could collectively fit into DEN's expansive property. "Being able to partner with DEN and the City of Denver is a tremendous honor for LAZ and our Colorado team," said Todd Rosen, Regional Vice President for Colorado, North Dakota, and Minnesota. "We are thrilled to help move the parking experience at DEN forward in the coming years." "We are so proud to partner with the airport and the City of Denver to continue to improve the parking experience at DEN for all employees and passengers," added LAZ Regional Vice President Max Fuller. DEN is the latest in a growing number of airport clients across the United States, for which LAZ Parking provides full service solutions inside and outside the terminal. LAZ Airport Services focuses on maximizing annual operating revenues and minimizing costs, while providing premium customer service to airport visitors and passengers. Their full scope of services includes parking management, shuttle bus transportation, valet parking services, 24/7 customer care call center, ground transportation & curbside management, business intelligence, data analytics, and more. The partnership with LAZ marks an exciting new chapter for her company, said Angela Clark, President and owner of Nationwide. "Having grown up in Denver and seen the transformation of the airport from Stapleton to DIA and now DEN, I take immense pride in carrying on my father's vision and legacy through our local, family-owned company," Clark said. "The combined capabilities of Nationwide and LAZ position us as a formidable team. We are eager to elevate the parking at DEN to be the finest in the country, because that's what Denver deserves." About LAZ Parking LAZ Parking is the largest, fastest-growing privately owned parking operator in the United States and a pioneer in digital parking technology. Founded in Hartford, CT, LAZ has been providing best-in-class parking management and transportation services since 1981 and operates over 1.4 million parking spaces in over 4,250 locations in 42 states and 460 cities in the U.S. LAZ is an industry leader in business intelligence, remote monitoring, eCommerce solutions, and Proximity On-Demand Services or "LAZ PODS". We leverage our national network of parking facilities to offer cutting edge, tech-enabled solutions, that include EV charging, micro warehousing, last-mile logistics, working across the hospitality, commercial, healthcare, airports, transportation, universities, government, retail, events, residential, and shuttle service industries. LAZ is a people first, conscious capitalist company, committed to elevating humanity through business. Additional information can be found at www.lazparking.com. SOURCE LAZ Parking 8 february 2024 at 17:35 News published onand distributed by: FORTIUS CAPITAL UNVEILS CONFLUENCE AT TWO RIVERS: A NEW AFFORDABLE HOUSING COMMUNITY IN EAGLE COUNTY, COLORADO ? After more than 20 years, the groundbreaking of Confluence at Two Rivers will mark the close of Dotsero's Two Rivers Village housing development that originally broke ground in 2003 ? VAIL, Colo., Feb. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Fortius Capital , a premier real estate private equity group, proudly announces the groundbreaking of Confluence at Two Rivers?an innovative entry-level housing community in Dotsero, Colorado. With construction set to begin this summer, Fortius reaffirms its commitment to addressing the pressing need for housing solutions in Eagle County. Confluence at Two Rivers, situated within the scenic landscape of Dotsero, will feature two- and three-bedroom townhomes, catering to the diverse needs of Vail Valley residents. With prices starting in the 300s to accommodate the region's average median income, these residences exemplify Fortius' vision of making homeownership a reality for a diverse demographic. "We're not just constructing homes; we're laying the foundation for brighter futures and thriving communities," said Fortius Capital's Founder and President, Mike Pearson. "We're committed to creating sustainable and affordable housing solutions that make the goal of homeownership achievable for the working class." Construction is scheduled to commence this summer and Fortius Capital is already accepting presale reservations from prospective residents. Interested parties can join the waitlist to secure first-come, first-served access to newly constructed homes. "Confluence at Two Rivers is not just a housing development; it's a testament to our unwavering commitment to community and affordability," added Patrick Scanlan, Director of Development at Fortius Capital. As part of Fortius' commitment to social responsibility, the housing units will be inclusively priced to accommodate median income families in the area, ensuring economic diversity is woven into the fabric of the community. This inclusivity aligns with Fortius' vision of creating spaces that empower individuals from all walks of life to realize property ownership. The initiative is expected to garner regional investment interest as Fortius Capital continues to spearhead critical housing development and discourse with a wide range of stakeholders on affordable housing solutions at a broader scale. Simultaneously, the project aligns with regional employer workforce housing needs, while further addressing the housing affordability crisis of the Vail Valley community. The community also represents a legitimate closeout to the Two Rivers Village development that was purchased by Fortius Capital via a foreclosure sale in 2013. Fortius Capital invites the community, stakeholders, and the media to join the groundbreaking ceremony this summer, more details will be announced this spring. This momentous occasion marks the beginning of a transformative journey, bringing affordable housing options to the heart of Eagle County. For general media inquiries, please contact: [email protected] About Fortius Capital Fortius Capital is a real estate private equity and development company with a focus on outdoor hospitality and entry-level housing within mountain and resort markets across the western United States. The company has delivered entry-level housing products to more than 1,000 Eagle County residents, while offering attractive, risk-adjusted returns for investment partners across a range of deal types since 2006. SOURCE Fortius Capital 8 february 2024 at 17:40 News published onand distributed by: NATO countries can, if they wish, "dignify" the fact that the Ukrainian territories captured by the Russian invaders allegedly made an "independent decision" to become part of the Russian Federation. There are options for this. ADVERTISIMENT This is the opinion of the dictator of the aggressor country, Russia, Vladimir Putin. He said this to American propagandist Tucker Carlson. Carlson noted that it would be "too humiliating" for NATO to recognize the occupation of Ukrainian territories as an alleged "independent decision" by Ukrainians. In response, Putin said that there is always a way out. "Let them think about how to do it with dignity," he clarified. Putin also repeated the thesis that Ukraine as a state had never existed, and the word "Ukrainian" only indicated that a person lived somewhere on the outskirts of the state, "near the edge." The Russian dictator added that he was willing to negotiate, "Russia has never refused to negotiate with Ukraine, let Ukraine cancel its decree and enter into negotiations." ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information is available on our Telegram OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Helping build more homes, faster in Charlottetown CHARLOTTETOWN, PE, Feb. 9, 2024 /CNW/ - With federal funding and federal leadership, we are changing how cities let housing get built in their municipalities. With a greater focus on higher density housing, student housing, homes near transit and affordable housing, we are going to get more homes built for Canadians at prices they can afford. Today, the Government of Canada and the City of Charlottetown announced that they reached an agreement to fast track 300 housing units over the next three years. This work will help spur the construction of more than 1,000 homes over the next decade. The agreement under the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF), will provide over $10 million to eliminate barriers to building the housing we need, faster. Charlottetown's Action Plan commits to eight local initiatives that enable a variety of housing forms and densities to meet the diverse needs of the community. The City of Charlottetown will implement a new official plan and introduce bylaw changes that will enable more medium-density housing, duplex and multi-family housing such as townhouses and multiplexes by allowing up to four units as-of-right on existing residential lots. Building heights will be increased from six to eight storeys near post-secondary institutions and in high-growth areas. Charlottetown's Action Plan will also help expedite the permitting of accessory dwelling units by adopting pre-approved plans. Additionally, the funding will allow for the implementation of zoning changes to support higher density, building more rental and affordable homes, reducing parking requirements and improved processes including e-permitting. HAF is helping cut red tape and fast track at least 100,000 permitted new homes over the first three years, which cities and regions estimate will lead to the creation of almost 550,000 permitted new homes for people in towns, cities, and Indigenous communities across Canada over the next decade. It asks for innovative action plans from local governments, and once approved, provides upfront funding to ensure the timely building of new homes, as well as additional funds upon delivering results. Local governments are encouraged to think big and be bold in their approaches, which could include accelerating project timelines, allowing increased housing density, and encouraging affordable housing units. The Government of Canada is making life more affordable for Canadians ? and housing is key to our work. We will continue to work with provincial, territorial, and municipal governments, as well as Indigenous partners, to keep building more homes for Canadians, faster. Quotes: "We are excited and proud to announce this partnership with Charlottetown today. By allowing greater density, building more rental and affordable homes, incentivizing accessory dwelling units, and improving permitting processes, the City will ensure that Charlottetown has more of the kind of homes we need to tackle the housing crisis. We will continue working with cities, mayors, and all levels of government, to get more homes built for Canadians at prices they can afford." ? The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities "By building more affordable homes more quickly, our government is unlocking new opportunities for growth in Charlottetown. Working together, we can equip our communities with new tools to support them to reach their potential and turn possibilities into realities." ? Sean Casey, Member of Parliament for Prince Edward Island "This investment into our planning process exponentially improves our ability to enact our Strategic Plan commitment to enhance livability by bringing Charlottetown residents closer to the services, lifestyle and leisure options they want. We have a dynamic and innovative set of priorities that will streamline and incentivize our planning process and make it more transparent for all users. We will change the way we zone and develop our neighbourhoods while maintaining our special mix of vibrancy and historic charm, all while creating the homes we need right now. We've been planning for ambitious growth in a way that optimizes both land use and infrastructure and now we can put those plans into action." ? Philip Brown, Mayor of the City of Charlottetown Quick Facts: Today's announcement was made by Sean Casey , Member of Parliament for Charlottetown?on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing Infrastructure and Communities? and Philip Brown , Mayor of the City of Charlottetown . , Member of Parliament for Charlottetown?on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing Infrastructure and Communities? and , Mayor of the . Launched in March 2023 , the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) is a $4 billion initiative from the Government of Canada that will run until 2026-27. , the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) is a $4 billion initiative from the Government of that will run until 2026-27. The Housing Accelerator Fund is part of Canada's National Housing Strategy (NHS), an $82+ billion plan to give more Canadians a place to call home. Progress on programs and initiatives are updated quarterly at www.placetocallhome.ca. The Housing Funding Initiatives Map shows affordable housing projects that have been developed. National Housing Strategy (NHS), an $82+ billion plan to give more Canadians a place to call home. Progress on programs and initiatives are updated quarterly at www.placetocallhome.ca. The Housing Funding Initiatives Map shows affordable housing projects that have been developed. As of September 30, 2023 , the Government of Canada has committed over $38.89 billion to support the creation of almost 152,000 units and the repair of over 241,000 units. These measures prioritize those in greatest need, including seniors, Indigenous Peoples, people experiencing or at risk of homelessness, and women and children fleeing violence. Associated Links: SOURCE Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) 9 february 2024 at 10:00 News published onand distributed by: Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks with US television host Tucker Carlson in Moscow, Russia, on February 6, 2024, in this still image taken from video released on February 8, 2024. TUCKER CARLSON NETWORK / VIA REUTERS President Vladimir Putin told controversial right-wing personality Tucker Carlson on Thursday, February 8, that the West should understand it is "impossible" to defeat Russia in Ukraine. In a two-hour meeting with the former Fox News host coming just ahead of the two-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine Putin also said a deal "can be reached" on imprisoned Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich. "Certain terms being discussed via special services channels," he said while insisting that the reporter is a spy something the Journal and US government vehemently deny. Carlson, who is close to White House candidate and former president Donald Trump, asked few tough questions and largely listened while the Kremlin leader lectured him on his views of Russian history, portraying the country as a victim of Western betrayals. Putin defended his decision to invade Ukraine in February 2022. He said the West now realizes that Russia will not be defeated, despite US, European and NATO help to Ukraine. "Up until now, there has been the uproar and screaming about inflicting a strategic defeat to Russia on the battlefield. But now they are apparently coming to realize that it is difficult to achieve, if possible, at all. In my opinion, it is impossible by definition," he said. He also aimed a message at the US Congress, where Trump-dominated Republicans are increasingly reluctant to keep backing Ukraine with weapons and other military aid. "I will tell you what we are saying on this matter and what we are conveying to the US leadership. If you really want to stop fighting, you need to stop supplying weapons," he said. When asked if Moscow would consider invading other countries in the region NATO members Poland and Latvia or generally across the European continent, Putin said that was "out of the question." "We have no interest in Poland, Latvia or anywhere else. Why would we do that? We simply don't have any interest. It's just threat mongering," Putin said. A war with Poland, he said, would happen "only in one case: if Poland attacks Russia." Asked about a possible change in leadership after the US election, where Biden is expected to face off against Trump in a rematch of their 2020 contest, Putin indicated he would see little change. "You just asked me if another leader comes and changes something? It is not about the leader. It is not about the personality of a particular person." Carlson rarely pushed back recorded Tuesday and posted on Carlson's own website and did not challenge Putin over his relationship with Trump. While president and since being defeated by Biden, Trump has repeatedly praised Putin and failed to condemn the invasion of Ukraine saying that if he was reelected he would be able to solve the war in "24 hours," though not saying how. Column Subscribers only 'Putin and Netanyahu are betting on the Trump horse' By contrast, Biden has branded Putin a "war criminal" and has made backing for Ukraine's elected, pro-Western government one of the key priorities of his presidency. American presenter Tucker Carlson and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on February 6, 2024. TUCKER CARLSON NETWORK / VIA REUTERS The conservative American presenter Tucker Carlson engaged in a blatant promotional campaign for Vladimir Putin, conversing on camera with the Russian leader in Moscow on Tuesday, February 6. The video of this meeting, Putin's first with a Western interviewer since the invasion of Ukraine, was released on Thursday. In this two-hour message to America and the West, Putin asserted that a Russian defeat in Ukraine was "impossible." "Up until now, there has been the uproar and screaming about inflicting a strategic defeat to Russia on the battlefield," he told the former Fox News star host, in a large room where the two men sat facing each other. "But now they are apparently coming to realize that it is difficult to achieve, if possible, at all. In my opinion, it is impossible by definition. It is never going to happen. It seems to me that now those who are in power in the West have come to realize this as well," added the Russian president. "If so, if the realization has set in, they have to think what to do next. We are ready for this dialogue," he assured. Putin, who spoke in Russian, dubbed his remarks into English. Putin also claimed that it was possible to reach an agreement for the release of American Wall Street Journal journalist Evan Gershkovich, who has been held in Russia for almost a year. "I believe an agreement can be reached," he said. "There is no taboo to settle this issue. We are willing to solve it, but there are certain terms being discussed via special services channels." 'No interests in Poland, Latvia or elsewhere' Asked by Carlson, a close associate of former US president Donald Trump, if he could imagine a scenario in which you send Russian troops to Poland, Putin replied, "Only in one case, if Poland attacks Russia." "Why? Because we have no interest in Poland, Latvia or anywhere else. Why would we do that? We simply don't have any interest. It's out of the question," he added. The Russian president also asserted that the election of a new US president, scheduled for November 5 and expected to pit Republican Donald Trump against Democrat Joe Biden, would not change relations between the US and Russia. "You just asked me if another leader comes and changes something? It is not about the leader. It is not about the personality of a particular person," said Putin. Read more Subscribers only 'The destabilizing shockwave of a Trump re-election would reach far beyond Europe' Trump boasted, without elaboration, that he could resolve the war in Ukraine in 24 hours if re-elected. President Biden, on the other hand, has called his Russian counterpart a war criminal and is unwavering in his support for Kyiv. Russian state media covered presenter Carlson's visit extensively, publishing photos of him at the airport and the famous Bolshoi Theater. According to the news website Semafor, he also met the American-Russian computer scientist and whistleblower Edward Snowden during his stay in Moscow. AN EVENT focused on the future of Irish regional development is taking place this Wednesday in Adare. Staff of the Association of Irish Regions have set up shop at the Woodlands House Hotel in the village for their annual conference. Winding up at close of business on Thursday, the event brings together elected members from local authorities from across the State. The organisers say the event will give a comprehensive, and significant engagement on regional progress, challenges and opportunities. This year, the seminar and training event coincide with critical junctures in Irish planning and development, notably the new Planning and Development Bill, the review of the National Planning Framework, and the ongoing challenges posed by climate change. Organisers say it aims to highlight the capacities of Irelands regions to tackle these challenges effectively. Discussions will be moderated by top journalist, writer, and current affairs presenter, Olivia OLeary. Expert speakers including senior government ministers will take part. Two local politicians will be taking an active part in the two-day event at the Adare hotel. Minister of State for Housing and Planning, Limerick TD Kieran ODonnell will address the event on Thursday. The Fine Gael TD will be the opening speaker in a debate on what, if any, regional government exists in Ireland. His party colleague, the Glin-based councillor John Sheahan will join a discussion on the misunderstood role of a member of a regional assembly. For his part, he sits on the Southern Regional Assembly. THE SOURCE of the unpleasant smell across Limerick this Friday has been revealed. Following enquiries from Limerick Live to various bodies, the Shannon Foynes Port Company has confirmed that the odour emanated from the docklands area of the city. In a statement, the company said the smell was caused by an "interaction" between atmospheric conditions on Thursday night and Friday morning and an "organic inert material" which is cargo and due to be transported from the area next week. The customer responsible for the cargo has made contact with Limerick Port and expects the odour to reduce over the weekend. "It is also exploring measures to prevent a recurrence," the Port Company added. Staff from Limerick City and County Council's environment and climate action department were on site at Dock Road and O'Curry Street in the city centre this Friday. They have also met with the fire and rescue service, Shannon Foynes Port Company and Gas Networks Ireland. "A prevalent strong smell has been attributed to material being transported in the area and the council has no evidence to suggest that there is any associated hazard," a spokesperson for the local authority added. Earlier, Gas Networks Ireland confirmed no gas leak was detected. However, the council and Gas Networks Ireland would like to remind the public that if you smell gas at home or on the street, please call 1800-205050 immediately. A MOTORIST drove through the Limerick Tunnel at more than twice the speed limit, Kilmallock Court heard. Marcus McCarthy, aged 25, of Ritaville, Georgian Village, Old Cork Road pleaded not guilty to dangerous driving. Garda Patrick Melody said he was operating a speed check on traffic going through the tunnel on May 9, 2023. At 6.35pm I detected a vehicle driven by the accused travelling at 163kms in an 80km zone. Traffic was busy. He was overtaking vehicles in the tunnel, said Garda Melody. Judge Harney asked the garda was he entitled to be overtaking and what day of the week it was? Garda Melody said he was entitled to overtake and it was a Tuesday. Conn McMahon BL, who represented Mr McCarthy, asked the garda if it was a busy time of day? Yes. Every day between 5.30pm to 7.30pm it is busy, said Garda Melody. Mr McMahon said his client accepts he was driving at an inordinate speed. It was extremely careless, said Mr McMahon, who asked Judge Patrica Harney to reduce the charge from dangerous driving to careless driving. Mr McMahon said there was no accident or injury caused to any member of the public. Judge Harney said the garda gave very fair evidence. She said the speed that Mr McCarthy was travelling at was of grave concern. There are two lanes. I am satisfied there was nothing wrong with the car - a Volkswagen Passat is a strong car. There was no evidence of overtaking on a single white line or driving on the wrong side of the road or other general components of a dangerous driving charge, said Judge Harney, who reduced the charge to careless driving. Mr McMahon said Mr McCarthy has undertaken a construction course and has multiple opportunities open to him. The barrister stressed the importance of Mr McCarthys driving licence to him. Judge Harney imposed a 500 fine. He has had a lucky escape. Next time he is passing through the tunnel he might observe the speed limit, said Judge Harney. I think so, said Mr McMahon. THE POLITICAL exodus from Limerick City and County Council continues with another prominent councillor calling it a day. Cllr John Egan, Murroe, informed Fine Gael headquarters just before the bank holiday weekend that he would not be contesting the local election in June. He follows in the footsteps of party colleague Mayor Gerald Mitchell, and councillors James Collins, Emmett OBrien and Kevin Sheahan. Between them all it is not far short of 100 years of council experience. Cllr Egan was first elected in the old Castleconnell local electoral area in 2009. He narrowly lost out in the new Cappamore-Kilmallock municipal district in 2014 before winning a seat back in 2019. In 2018, he spoke publicly about his recovery from cancer of the oesophagus. The Murroe man, aged in his 70s, said he made the decision to bow out in the best interests of himself and his family. Cllr Emmett OBrien revealed in last weeks Leader he was the victim of intense bullying during his decade on the local authority. Cllr Egan said modern councillors are under extreme pressure from social media such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok. I came off of Facebook because I found some of the remarks that used to come on it quite insulting. I just got off it and no more about it. I dont think any person in public life has to put up with that kind of behaviour, said Cllr Egan, who adds that he wouldnt stand for bullying. I wouldnt take it from anybody and why should I? Any person who puts their name on a ballot paper to be elected to the council or the Dail is doing a service to the State and they need to be respected by the people. We all should appreciate that we have democratically elected councillors and TDs. We saw the behaviour of the thugs in Dublin in November - if that gets out of hand you are in for anarchy. Democracy is key, he said. Cllr Egan is saddened to see the likes of Mayor Mitchell and councillors James Collins, Emmett OBrien and Kevin Sheahan not running again. The job is extremely demanding. I am disappointed there arent more business people or farmers going for the council but I can easily understand why. There is a lot of talk about young people not going into politics but they can't afford it because it is too insecure. They have big commitments, said Cllr Egan. It is not known if Fine Gael will now add a fourth candidate in Cappamore-Kilmallock to join Greg Conway, Tommy O'Sullivan and Noreen Stokes, who are already on the ticket. As Cllr Egan reflects on his time in the council, he said he was proud to be involved in the delivery of Beary's Cross roundabout and bus shelters in Kilfinane, Kilmallock, Bruff, Hospital, Pallasgreen, Dromkeen and soon in Caherconlish, as well as planned for Murroe, Doon and Cappamore in the future. He also highlights new footpaths in Caherconlish, Pallasgreen, Doon, Cappamore, Bruff and Hospital. Cllr Egan looks forward to the building of homes for retired people starting on the old creamery site in Cappamore in May. He regrets that the 5m national fire training centre for Kilmallock hasn't come to pass. A lot has been achieved but there is a lot more to be achieved by other county councillors after the local election, said Cllr Egan. He has been involved in public life since the age of 18 with Macra. His roles included in the ICMSA, community council, National Dairy Council, Golden Vale, Kerry Co-op and the council. As he retires from political life, Cllr Egan wished to thank his family, supporters, everybody who voted for him and all the council staff with a special mention for the road maintenance crews. He says he will still be involved in community life and will help out anyone he can in a private capacity. As Cllr Egan bows out of local politics he said his motto in the council was to find solutions, not problems. Exante is the brand name used by several regulated financial institutions around the world. Regulated Brokers operating under the Exante brand name enjoy access to Exante's trading platform which offers access to financial markets and more than a million financial instruments. Founded in 2011, the multi-asset trading platform serves investors in more than a hundred countries and is ideal for seasoned investors. In this analysis, lets examine whether Exante is a scam or legit, what it offers, how it protects investors, their trading instruments and fees, and the pros and cons of trading with Exante. Note that any reference to Exante" in this content relates to the brokerage firms licensed to operate and use the Exante brand name. Key takeaways - Exante was founded in 2011 - The platform offers access to over 1 million financial instruments - The Exante brand is used for several licensed investment firms in the UK, Malta, Cyprus, and Hong Kong. - Exante serves investors worldwide, except for the US and sanctioned countries - The trading platform is ideal for seasoned investors - Exantes clients include wealth managers, banks, and private investors - Offers a demo account with 1 million EUR in virtual currency - The trading platform is available on the web, desktop, and mobile About Exante Exante is a global trading platform used by reputable brokerage firms licensed in Hong Kong, Malta, Cyprus, and the UK. Its an advanced trading platform with access to 50+ markets, available on a central dashboard and a single multi-currency account. With a minimum deposit requirement of 10,000 EUR for individual traders and 50,000 EUR for corporate accounts, Exante typically attracts seasoned investors, banks, and wealth managers. Instruments available include stocks, ETFs, bonds, options, futures, funds, and metals. Exante has received multiple awards over the years - including winning the Diversity Marketing & Recruitment Initiative of the Year award from The Financial Times two years in a row - and its brokerage firms are licensed with various reputable financial regulatory bodies, including the FCA and MFSA. Is Exante a scam? Exante is a reputable global trader founded in 2011 and has more than 1.6 billion AUM as of 2023. Its proprietary trading platform allows direct market access to a wide range of financial instruments and its wide range of partners ensures diversification and easy access to all financial operations and risk management tools. With over a decade of steadfast growth, Exante combines cutting-edge technology with robust regulatory compliance to ensure a safe and secure trading experience. As of January 2024, Exante has a 4.1 rating on Trustpilot. Why Exante is legit Legal structure Exante is a global trademark shared by a family of brokers licensed individually by the FCA (UK), MFSA (Malta), CySEC (Cyprus), and SFC (Hong Kong) extending across 20+ global locations including London, Cyprus, Malta, and Hong Kong. The Exante trademark is solely owned and licensed by XNT LTD. XNT LTD has granted the use of the Exnate trading name and branding to EXT Ltd., XHK Ltd., and LHCM Ltd. Regulatory compliance Exantes investment firms are licensed by the FCA (UK), CySEC (Cyprus), and SFC (Hong Kong) and it has a footprint that spans 20+ global locations including London, Cyprus, Malta, and Hong Kong. These regulations ensure that Exante operates within strict ethical and financial standards to provide peace of mind to traders about the safety of their investments. Exante is also committed to protecting client information and ensuring confidentiality by adhering to stringent data protection laws. Exante is GDPR compliant and its privacy policy outlines the measures it takes to protect personal data and prevent any misuse. Investor protection Investors funds are protected by the Investor Compensation Scheme which protects investors in the event that the broker becomes insolvent. The scheme compensates investors for a portion of their assets and safeguards them if the broker experiences financial difficulties. Pros and cons of using Exante Pros - Trade over 1 million financial instruments from a single account - Trade on the web, desktop, and mobile - Personal account managers for a customized trading experience - Exante is licensed with multiple authoritative bodies - Transparent fee structure - Ideal for experienced traders Cons - High minimum deposit amount for individual traders - Currently no option for third-party indicators on the terminal - Withdrawal fee of 30 EUR regardless of the amount Exante trading platform View Full Image Exante trading platform Web Exantes web-based trading platform allows clients access from any web browser, without the need to download any software. It has a sleek and intuitive user interface, and traders can easily switch between financial instruments, execute trades, and manage their portfolios. The platform has comprehensive charting tools and real-time data feeds, offering traders the resources they need to make informed trading decisions. One of the key features of the web trading platform is its customization abilities, thanks to its modular structure. Desktop The desktop trading platform provides traders with a comprehensive trading experience and is designed to meet the needs of professional traders by providing in-depth trading tools and features. It doesnt rely on your browser or HTTP protocol, meaning faster trading order processing and eliminating unnecessary delays or connectivity issues. Mobile Exantes mobile trading app is available for Android and iOS and it has some similar features to the desktop version, with a comprehensive suite of trading tools with a sleek and user-friendly interface. Traders can look at real-time market data, manage their portfolios, and execute trades with a few clicks. The app is easy to navigate and offers features like a bond screener and basket trader. Exante fees Exantes trading fees only apply to actual trades and they have a very transparent fee structure. The latest fees can be found on their website here. Trading fees Trading fees for stocks and ETFs on main U.S. exchanges have a maximum rate of USD 0.02 per share. Fees for European exchanges start from 0.02% up to 0.18%. Trading fees on Asian exchanges vary between 0.1% to 0.1927%. These fees are current as of January 2024. Fees for futures and options vary based on the exchange; the fee for U.S. exchanges starts at 1.5 USD and the fee for European exchanges starts at 1.5 EUR. Other exchanges like OSE, ASX, SGX, and HKEX have their own fee structure. The is a 0.25% cash conversion fee on all major currency pairs, except EUR/USD, which has a zero fee. For all other pairs, the rate is 0.4%. Some other fees include: - Shorting stocks: 12% of the transaction as an annual rate - Custody fee: 0.3% annually (applies to bonds) - Margin trading fees: None as long as the margin utilization is below 100% - Manual execution: 90 EUR for voice trading (phone/email orders) Deposits and withdrawals Individual accounts have a minimum opening deposit of 10,000 EUR and for corporate accounts, it's 50,000 EUR. Deposits are accepted in various currencies including EUR, GBP, JPY, CHF, CZK, SEK, CAD, HKD, MXN, PLN, NOK, SGD, and AUD. Deposit payments are accepted via bank transfer and Exante accepts deposits from any bank, with a few exceptions, such as crypto exchanges and institutions in restricted regions. In terms of withdrawals, Exante has two commission structures: standard and non-standard. The standard commission is EUR 30 per withdrawal, whereas the non-standard commission is 0.9% of the withdrawal amount. Note that if this rate comes to more than EUR 30, the higher amount will apply. Conclusion Exante is a highly regulated global broker that offers a wide range of instruments with transparent rates and commissions. There are minimal downsides, like the high minimum deposits and some lack of automation, but Exante is an excellent choice for experienced traders looking for advanced features on a modular, customizable trading platform. FAQs Is Exante a scam? No, Exante is a global trading platform that is highly regulated and its clients include institutional investors, wealth managers, and private investors. Is Exante safe? Exante is a safe and highly regulated trading platform with a footprint in multiple countries. The company has won numerous awards and upholds the highest compliance standards. Is Exante regulated? Yes, Exantes investment firms are licensed by the FCA (UK), CySEC (Cyprus), and SFC (Hong Kong). Disclaimer: This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/ editorial involvement of Hindustan Times. Hindustan Times does not endorse/ subscribe to the contents of the article/advertisement and/or views expressed herein. Hindustan Times shall not in any manner, be responsible and/or liable in any manner whatsoever for all that is stated in the article and/or also with regard to the views, opinions, announcements, declarations, affirmations etc., stated/featured in same. The decision to read hereinafter is purely a matter of choice and shall be construed as an express undertaking/guarantee in favour of Hindustan Times of being absolved from any/ all potential legal action, or enforceable claims. The content may be for information and awareness purposes and does not constitute a financial advice. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! The new Polish government has not solved the problems with the access of Ukrainian products to the Polish market. The country's Minister of Agriculture, Czeslaw Sekerski, generally supported the new border blockade, and his deputy, Michal Kolodziejczak, is pushing for the introduction of strict restrictions on agricultural products from Ukraine. ADVERTISIMENT According to Sekerski, farmers' protests against the influx of goods from Ukraine are "justified." "Farmers have legitimate fears, expectations, and demands to limit the excessive inflow of goods from Ukraine and other non-European markets to the EU, in particular to Poland. We will definitely negotiate to the end, because the truth is on the side of farmers and the Ministry of Agrarian Policy, which shares a similar position with farmers," Sekerski was quoted as saying by Polskie Radio. According to the minister, Poland and other countries bordering Ukraine allegedly "suffered the most from the EU's decision to liberalize trade, to open the EU to the inflow of goods from Ukraine, without duties, without quotas." Sekersky believes that in certain industries a complete blockade of imports will be needed, as in the case of grain. Similar bans are possible for sugar and poultry. ADVERTISIMENT "This may be necessary for sugar and poultry. We are submitting proposals to the European Commission, but we also want to establish this in our relations with Ukraine," the Polish minister said. At the same time, Polish Deputy Minister of Agriculture Michal Kolodziejczak has already spoken about some similar proposals. In particular: introduction of an additional 8% value added tax (VAT) for oil from Ukraine; from Ukraine; limiting or completely banning sugar supplies from Ukraine to Poland. "Introduce a VAT of at least 8% on oil that can come from Ukraine to Poland... Why should it be at the 0% rate, which is intended for Polish producers and Polish consumers?" Kolodziejczak said. As for sugar, commenting on the farmers' strike, the deputy minister supported the demands of the farmers and stressed that"the border with Ukraine should be very tightly closed." ADVERTISIMENT As a reminder, on February 9, the protests of Polish farmers caused traffic to be hampered at the Medyka-Shehyni, Hrebenne-Rava-Ruska, and Dorohusk-Yagodyn checkpoints. The strike is expected to last 30 days. In general, Poland has been banning imports of a number of Ukrainian agricultural products since the spring of 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 have imposed unilateral restrictions on Ukrainian imports. At the same time, the European Commission has recently made an official proposal to extend the free trade regime with Ukraine without duties and quotas for another year, until June 2025. However, the proposal contains a strict reservation - the need to protect the European agricultural market from Ukrainian goods. ADVERTISIMENT As reported by OBOZ.UA, earlier, 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. Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! EaseMyTrip Q3 results: Online travel services provider EaseMyTrip, on Friday, reported a 9.5% rise in its net profit to 45.7 crore in Q3 FY24 against 41.2 crore in the year-ago period. Its net consolidated revenue increased by 18.1% YoY to 160.8 crore in the quarter ending December against 136 crore in Q3 FY23. Its EBITDA increased to 65.3 crore during the quarter under review. On Friday, the shares of the company, registered as Easy Trip Planners, closed 3.07% lower at 50.84 per share. During the quarter under review, EaseMyTrip acquired a stake of around 13% in ECO Hotels and Resorts, diversifying its portfolio beyond online travel services. Recently, the company has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during the Global Investors Summit in London. The MOU also includes joint marketing campaigns targeting key locations like the UK/Europe, Middle East, Asia, and USA/Canada, to boost Uttarakhand tourism. EaseMyTrip Q3: Segment-wise performance Talking about its segment-wise performance, the air segment bookings declined by 29.7% to 22.6 lacs. The hotel night bookings reduced by 4.1% to 91,915 during the quarter under review. Bookings by EaseMyTrip in the others segment increased by 82.5% to 2,70,980, contributing 1.9% to the GBR. However, the gross booking revenue of the online platform declined by 10.6% to 2,026.0.7 crore. "In Q3 FY24, we diversified our portfolio by acquiring a 13% stake in ECO Hotels and Resorts and signed an MOU with the Government of Uttarakhand. We also introduced EasyDarshan, offering hassle-free pilgrimage packages, and launched Explore Bharat" to showcase India's rich heritage to international travellers. Our exclusive subscription program, the EaseMyTrip Platinum, Gold, and Silver Cards, provides luxury travel experiences to HNIs," said, Nishant Pitti, Co-founder and CEO of Easy Trip Planners. EASY TRIP PLANNERS More Information Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Singapore-based venture capital firm Jungle Ventures is in talks to invest in two of its existing portfolio companies, The Ayurveda Experience (TAE) and Walko Food Company Pvt. Ltd, three people familiar with the matter told Mint . Jungle's investment in Walko Food is estimated to be more than $7 million, one of the people said. However, Mint was not able to procure the size of the investment in TAE. Jungle and TAE declined to comment on the development while Walko did not respond to Mint's requests for a comment. Pune-based Walko Food owns fast growing natural ice cream brand NIC. The company operates a manufacturing plant in Pune and retails in over 30 cities across India, via multiple sales channels like food delivery platforms, Modern Trade, Parlors. Last year, the VC firm led a $11 million investment in Walko Food's NIC. The fresh funds were dedicated to boost production, enhance product offerings and broader distribution reach to cater to a larger population. TAE is a Delhi-based beauty and wellness platform with a customer base in countries including India, US, Canada, Australia, France. It offers products across segments such as skincare, bodycare, food & beverages. It is backed by Fireside Ventures, a prominent early-stage VC firm that is focused on consumer brands. "There are some sections of people who think of a natural or healthy lifestyle. They want to break away from usual chemicals and have a more sustainable and natural way of living. I think that solves that purpose," Arpit Beri, a partner in Jungle Ventures, said in a separate interaction with Mint on Thursday about the company's investments in the Ayurveda space. The VC firm houses two Ayurveda-based companies, TAE and an ayurveda tech startup NirogStreet. Jungle Ventures had their biggest investment year in India in terms of value and the number of deals, Beri said in the interaction. The VC firm made about nine investments last year compared to about four deals in 2022. "Currently, I am on a lookout for companies in different parts of the country and we as a team will continue to do that and only expect to do more [deals] this year as we remain very bullish on India," Beri said. He oversees investments in the country and some of his portfolio companies include Turtlemint, Leap Scholar, Atomberg, Citymall and Walko. "There are only a few sectors wherein there's a lot of money that can be made, consumer is one of them and that is because [of] the GDP composition a lion's share of that goes to retail as it comes from consumption," he said. Beri also spoke about how the perception of profitability has changed in the last few years. As an investor, he makes sure to see that there is a good balance between growth and the ability of a business to become profitable. "All businesses need to spend today to reap benefits tomorrow. If you are selling a product which was supposed to be sold at 100 for 20 or 30, 50, that is a problem, right? Because that is an artificial demand being created. We look for those kinds of things," he said, adding that the right business will attack the right problem. Broadly, India's growing young population coupled with increased exposure to digitization has led to the emergence of several new consumer brands in the ecosystem. This has also caused a shift in consumer behaviour where they are ready to pay a premium. "The market opportunity for new brands is massive due to the emergence of online shoppers and the expected growth in disposable income in the next ten years," said Satish Meena, an adviser at Datum Intelligence. In light of several compliance issues and corporate governance lapses among startups in recent times, investors have also become increasingly prudent and are taking active measures to ensure their portfolio companies are in good books. Beri emphasized that corporate governance is of very high priority and they take a host of measures ranging from taking a board seat and monitoring the kind of auditors that are on the cap table, or capitalization table, to urging companies beyond a certain scale of growth to appoint a chief financial officer or a vice president who is in charge of finance. "We are having many of our mature companies have internal audits as sort of a dedicated function run by top auditors, who are helping us discover any sort of even small, fraudulent activities that may be happening in the company," Beri said. So far, the company has raised four funds. Its most recent fund closed at $600 million in 2022. Of the total value, it earmarked $450 million towards new investments and dedicated the remaining amount for follow up investments in its existing portfolio companies. Founded in 2010, Jungle Ventures invests in consumer, B2B and software companies across Southeast Asia and India. Currently, it handles over $1 billion in assets under management and has a combined portfolio value of over $12.5 billion. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! MUMB AI : L&T Electrolysers Ltd and Matrix Gas and Renewables Ltd have been awarded subsidies under New Delhis flagship green hydrogen promotion scheme following a last-minute withdrawal by Jindal India Ltd, a BC Jindal Group company, said one person familiar with the development. The decision was taken Thursday after Jindal India missed the deadline of 3 February to furnish the bank guarantees required to formally sign up for the scheme, this person said, asking not to be named. The incentives are part of the 17,490-crore Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (Sight) scheme, which grants subsidies to companies for setting up electrolyser manufacturing plants in India. Jindal India backed out of the scheme after disagreements with its overseas technology partner, according to the person mentioned above. Jindal India did not immediately reply to emailed queries. L&T Electrolysers has been awarded maximum incentives of 444 crore to set up 300 megawatts of annual electrolyser manufacturing capacity. The company had earlier won a lower allocation of 63 MW against its application of 300 MW. L&T received the higher allocation following the withdrawal of Jindal India. Matrix has been awarded incentives of 93 crore to set up 63 MW of annual electrolyser manufacturing capacity. The scheme falls under the purview of the ministry of new and renewable energy (MNRE) and is managed by Solar Energy Corporation of India (Seci). MNRE and Seci did not immediately reply to queries. L&T and Matrix could not immediately be reached for a comment. Jindal India had applied for incentives to set up 300 MW of annual electrolyser manufacturing capacity and was granted a maximum subsidy of 444 crore. It was one of eight companies chosen by the government in January, out of 21 applicants, to set up electrolyser manufacturing units in India as part of the first tranche of the scheme. The other companies are: Reliance Electrolyser Manufacturing Ltd, Ohmium Operations, John Cockerill Greenko Hydrogen Solutions, Adani New Industries Ltd, Homihydrogen Private Ltd, and Advait Infratech Ltd. The second tranche of the scheme is being prepared. The recent measures by the Indian government to reallocate resources towards green hydrogen electrolyzer manufacturing suggest a growing commitment to developing domestic production capacity in this emerging clean energy sector," said Saurabh Agarwal, Partner, EY. This initiative, if successful, could contribute significantly to Indias energy independence and self-sufficiency goals," he said. Of the eight companies chosen for the Sight scheme, two are to set up about 200 MW of cumulative annual electrolyser manufacturing capacity using indigenously developed technology. Six companies, including Jindal India, were chosen to install a cumulative 1,200 MW of electrolyser capacity using any technology stack. The Sight scheme is aimed at promoting domestic production of green hydrogen and electrolysers, and is part of the government's National Green Hydrogen Mission. An electrolyser uses electricity to split water into elemental oxygen and hydrogen. Hydrogen can then be used as a non-polluting fuel to replace fossil fuels. In 2022, Jindal India Solar Energy, another BC Jindal group company, had pulled out of a government scheme to promote clean energy. The company had also backed out of a production-linked incentive scheme for vertically integrated high-efficiency solar modules in 2022, and its capacity was then awarded to units of Reliance Industries and Adani group. ChatGPT creator OpenAI has achieved a revenue milestone of $2 billion in December 2023, Reuters reported. Financial Times carried the news first citing two sources from the Microsoft-backed artificial intelligence (AI) start-up. Earlier on February 9, the company was in the news for founder CEO Sam Altman's reported talks with several potential investors in a bid to raise billions of dollars to set up a chip-making company, according to a report by Bloomberg. The 38-year-old entrepreneur is said to be looking to set up a network of factories to manufacture semiconductors. Funding Plans A recent report by Bloomberg highlights that OpenAI's plans for constructing a modern manufacturing facility of high quality would need funding amounting to tens of billions of dollars. The development of a network of such facilities is expected to span several years. Altman, a key figure in this venture, has engaged in discussions with notable entities for funding, including Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed al-Nahyan from the UAE, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC), and Softbank. Notably, Sheikh Tahnoon, who serves as the national security advisor and is the brother of UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan, oversees significant investment funds in the country. According to information from the Financial Times, it remains unclear whether the new company will operate as a subsidiary of OpenAI or as a separate entity. However, two sources familiar with the matter mentioned in the report confirm that OpenAI will be the initial client of the new company. Manufacturing Outlook A previous Reuters report from last year indicated that OpenAI was exploring the possibility of manufacturing its own chipset and considering potential acquisition options. While the final decision was yet to be confirmed, OpenAI was actively exploring various solutions to address the shortage of AI chips, including diversifying suppliers beyond Nvidia and collaborating with other chip manufacturers. The rising demand for processors, driven by the increasing interest in artificial intelligence applications since the launch of OpenAI's ChatGPT over a year ago, has led to a significant demand for the required chips. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! NEW DELHI : Metals and mining giant Vedanta Resources Ltd on Friday said it has made an upfront payment of $779 million to its bondholders and completed repayments as part of the debt restructuring exercise. The upfront payment to the bondholders was made on Wednesday, Vedanta Resources Ltd (VRL) said in a statement. VRL has completed repayments to its bondholders on February 7, 2024, in line with the consents it received earlier in the year in which maturities of USD 3.2 billion in bonds were successfully extended to 2029, the statement said. "Vedanta Resources has successfully made an upfront payment of USD 779 million in cash on February 7 to bondholders to redeem a portion of the bonds, and extend their maturities," the company, promoted by billionaire Anil Agarwal, said. It has also paid a consent fee of $68 million to the bondholders who had agreed to the restructuring, the company said. Vedanta in January received consent from bondholders to restructure four series of bonds to ease its massive debt burden. These series of bonds include two of USD 1 billion each that were due for maturity in 2024, one USD 1.2 billion bond in 2025 and one USD 600 million in 2026. VRL in December had secured a USD 1.25 billion loan from private credit lenders to refinance/repay part of the USD 3.2 billion debt maturing in 2024 and 2025. Vedanta Group announced a significant demerger and reorganization plan in September last year. The move will recast the Vedanta Group across 17 major businesses, the statement said. "Each of the businesses has world-class management leadership, employ the latest cutting-edge technologies have import substitution and fulfilment of domestic demand as a core proposition. They also offer high quality and diversified investment opportunities to institutional and retail investors alike," the statement said. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! BETUL (GOA) : State-run Petronet LNG is expected to supply liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Sri Lanka starting 2025, said the companys managing director and chief executive officer A.K. Singh. Speaking to reporters on Thursday on the sidelines of the India Energy Week (IEW), Singh said the company would also set up an LNG terminal at Colombo port with an investment of about 2,500 crore. They (Sri Lanka) have already installed a 300 MW gas-based power plant. They have approached us to set up an LNG terminal which is going to take more time3 to 4 years time to set up an FSRU (floating storage regasification unit)-based terminal. As a stop-gap arrangement we are working out to supply through ISO containers," he said. He said daily supplies would be about 50 containers with each having 17 tonnes of LNG, which would amount to 850 tonnes per day. Sri Lanka has been looking to source LNG to run its gas-based power plants along with other industries. The proposed FRSU has been under discussion for a few years now. The Petronet CEO said that from the date of commencement of the project, the FSRU or the LNG terminal would take about three-and-a-half years to be completed. He also said that the company will prepare a detailed feasibility report (DFR) once the Sri Lankan government gives formal approval to the project. The supplies would from the Kochi LNG terminal and the CEO said that the proposed supplies would be a good utilization" of the terminal which is currently under-utilized. Petronet LNG has long-term LNG purchase agreements from Qatar and Australia, and operates two land-based regasification terminals at Dahej in Gujarat with a capacity of 17.5 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) and a 5-mtpa unit at Kochi in Kerala. The development comes on the heels of Petronet signing a long-term LNG sale and purchase agreement on Tuesday for around 7.5 million tonnes per annum of LNG with QatarEnergy. This 20-year deal is an extension of an existing contract for LNG supply of signed in 1999 for supplies till 2028. Under the new agreement, LNG supplies will run from 2028 till 2048. The company is also expanding capacity of the Dahej terminal by 5 million tonne per annum (mtpa) to 22.5 million tonnes and is also looking to build a new terminal in Odisha. BETUL (GOA) : With US sanctions on Venezuela lifted, state-run ONGC Videsh Ltd (OVL) is in talks with the Venezuelan government for operating two oil and gas projects in the country, said Rajarshi Gupta, managing director of the company. OVL currently owns 40% stake in the San Cristobal project, a producing asset, and 11% in Carabobo, which is under development. The MD said the company would invest further in the existing projects in Venezuela in a bid to increase production. He also said the company is awaiting cargoes from Venezuela in lieu of stuck dividends. Mint earlier reported that OVL is in talks with its Venezuelan partner PdVSA to secure oil cargoes in lieu of unpaid dividends totalling $600 million. The lifting of the sanctions is a very positive sign. We are in very advanced discussions with the government of Venezuela to get further cargoes to liquidate our dividends and at the same time to get the operatorship of the two projects that we have there and increase the production from there. The two projects we will have to invest to get more production. Thats still being worked out," Gupta said. We will have to invest, because Venezuela has the largest reserves in the world. So, if we invest more, we will get more production." Currently OVL and PdVSA jointly operate the projects and going forward the company expects to have more say" in the projects. The overseas arm of Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC)OVLacquired 40% in San Cristobal Project in Venezuela in 2008, with PdVSA owning the balance 60%. ONGC Videsh holds 40% through ONGC Nile Ganga (San Cristobal) BV, a wholly owned subsidiary of ONGC Nile Ganga B.V. The Carabobo project is part of a consortium which also includes Indian Oil Corporation, Oil India, Repsol YPF (Repsol) and Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS). The consortium has about 40% ownership interest in an Empresa Mixta (mixed public, private) company for developing the Carabobo-1 project, where OVL holds 11% stake through its subsidiary Carabobo One AB, registered in Sweden. The remaining stake is owned by Corporacion Venezolana del Petroleo (CVP), a subsidiary of Petroleos de Venezuela S.A. (PdVSA), Venezuelas state oil company. Speaking about the Mozambique LNG project which has been under force majeure since 2021, he said construction is expected to resume during the ongoing quarter. Indian oil and gas PSUs hold a combined 30% stake in the Cabo Delgado LNG project in Mozambique. The $20 billion Offshore Area 1 project has been under force majeure since April 2021 following attacks by Islamic State terrorists in the coastal town of Palma in Cabo Delgado province. Given the fragile security situation, the TotalEnergies-operated Mozambique LNG had been put under force majeure. At a time when India is negotiating free trade agreements (FTA) with highly competitive markets such as the United Kingdom (UK) and European Union (EU), a parliamentary panel has asked the Centre to recalibrate existing FTAs to safeguard against negative trade balances with partner countries to optimize the FTA advantages. Inverted duty structure in certain FTAs leads to higher raw material costs for manufacturers, while the import of finished product incurs lower duties, resulting in a disadvantage for manufacturers. India has already signed a limited trade deal with Australia and a comprehensive trade deal with the UAE, where duties are among the lowest in the world. The 14th and last round of negotiations with the UK is underway and expected to fructify with positive commitments, while the seventh round of negotiations with the EU is slated to begin on 19 February. Also, India and Asean member countries are set to revisit their free trade agreement and the dialogue for it to start next week. A delegation from Southeast Asia, comprising about 50 members, including high-ranking officials, will arrive in New Delhi for a three-day discussion starting 17 February. The House panel, which is led by Congress parliamentarian Abhishek Manu Singhvi, said, in its report, that the government should actively engage in signing FTAs with countries that share high complementary interests to promote mutual benefits as free trade agreements plays a significant role in enhancing the country's exports and contributing to the growth of domestic industries. The existence of an inverted duty structure not only restricts the competitiveness of exports but also contradicts the 'Make in India' initiative of the government. It also inadvertently promotes the import of finished goods by traders and end-use industries. The Parliamentary panel also suggested the setting up of FTA facilitation centres for improving the availability of information regarding all FTAs for exporters. In India-Asean FTA, the review will focus on the Asean Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA), which has been in place for over a decade, and will likely include more goods and services under non-tariff barriers. ATIGA was signed in 2009 and it came into effect in 2010. The decision to review it came at the 16th Asean-India Economic Ministers Meeting in September 2019, following multiple requests from member nations. The scope of the review was finalized in September 2022, with the first meetings scheduled for February 2024. India's trade deficit with Asean has grown significantly, from $7.5 billion annually when the agreement came into effect to approximately $44 billion in FY23. This fiscal year so far, India has exported goods worth $44 billion to the region, while imports stood at $87.57 billion. The Asean comprises of Brunei Darussalam, Burma, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. These countries represented about 11% of India's global trade in FY23. In the case of India-UK FTA, both the nations are committed to developing a comprehensive and mutually beneficial trade relationship, as demonstrated by the ongoing discussions. India and the United Kingdom's bilateral trade grew from $17.5 billion in 20212022 to $20.36 billion in 20222023. The India-UK FTA has encountered multiple obstacles during the negotiation process, resulting in the ambitious agreement being delayed by more than a year from its original deadline. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! NEW DELHI : The selection of infrastructure developers for seven mega-textile parks will be completed by the end of March, two officials said, as India makes a push for becoming a textile manufacturing hub. These so-called master developers will build the seven parksunder the Pradhan Mantri Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel (PM MITRA) schemewith an investment of 12,000 crore. They will be selected by the union textiles ministry. Master developers are infrastructure development companies, which will be given the mandate to develop all parks with their own investment. These master developers will be selected through a tender. As an incentive, each developer will get 100-acre piece of land on a 99-year lease for commercial exploitation in each textile park. Before floating the tender, the textile ministry will conduct a round-table with stakeholders, one of the officials said. As per the guidelines of textile parks, the Centre will provide 500 crore to the master developers, which will then invest around 1,200 crore to create plug-and-play facilities in each textile park. Each textile park is expected to be of 1,000 acres in area. PM MITRA parks refer to plug-and-play facilities for textile businesses offered by the Centre and state governments to increase investment, promote innovation, create job opportunities and make India a global hub for textile manufacturing and exports. These parks can play a pivotal role in catalyzing scale in the textile industry and boosting exports. Discussions on the request for proposal (RFP) document is currently underway, with three rounds of inter-ministerial deliberations already completed. The seven parks will come up in Virudhnagar (Tamil Nadu), Warangal (Telangana), Navsari (Gujarat), Kalaburagi (Karnataka), Dhar (Madhya Pradesh), Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh), and Amravati (Maharashtra). The special purpose vehicles (SPVs) for Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu have been finalized, and they will soon be asked to float tenders to engage master developers. Land for the parks will be provided by the respective state government. Queries mailed on 22 January to the textiles secretary, and spokesperson of the textiles ministry remained unanswered till press time. The government is aiming to position itself as a textile sourcing and investment destination through the seven parks with an investment of 70,000 crore in the next five years. The domestic apparel & textile industry contributes about 2.3% to the countrys GDP, 13% to industrial production, and 12% to exports. Holding a 4% share in the global textiles and apparel trade, Indias total export value in textiles reached $24.70 billion in the first nine months of the fiscal year 2023 (April-December). India ranks among the top global producers of cotton and jute and is the worlds second-largest silk producer, and accounts for 95% of the worlds hand-woven fabrics. Mumbai: After nine months, Maharashtra has reclaimed the top slot in new investor registrations from Uttar Pradesh (UP). The state saw 300,000 new investors getting unique client codes (UCC) in December, ahead of UPs 290,000 UCCs, according to NSEs latest data. UCCs are unique client identification numbers given by stock brokers to investors, which are mapped to their demat accounts. Analysts said more migrants to Maharashtra entering the capital markets, and a high base in UP may have combined to help the western state reclaim the top slot. Gujarat saw the third highest addition of new investors at 230,000, Rajasthan 140,000 and West Bengal 120,000. The five states alone contributed 52% of new investor registrations across 25 top states. The data applies only to the countrys largest stock exchange NSE, which enjoyed a 91.5% market share ( 20.79 trillion out of 22.72 trillion gross turnover) in the cash equity segment, with BSE a distant second. This makes NSE a proxy for developments in the capital markets. Maharashtra attracts the highest number of migrants among Indias states and many of these young working-age people must have accounted for the fresh registrations," said Alok Churiwala, managing director of Churiwala Securities. He attributed UPs rise to rising awareness" on equity investments among educated masses, especially in urban regions like Noida. In February 2023, UP toppled Maharashtra as the state with highest new investor registrations. The upsurge in market participation is borne out by the increase in cumulative demat accounts at depositories NSDL and CDSL since the pandemic. The number of client demat accounts, where securities are housed in electronic form, grew over threefold from 40.8 million at the end of FY20 to 143.9 million as of 31 January in the current fiscal year. UPs growth in investor base has been prolific, growing from just 2.3 million at the end of FY20 to 9.01 million by the end of December 2023. In terms of total registered investors, Maharashtra leads with 17.5% or 15 million investors as of December 2023. UP overtook Gujarat in November 2022 to take the second spot and has held that position since; Gujarat is third at 7.7 million, and West Bengal and Karnataka are at 4.8 million each. These five states together accounted for 48.3% of the total investor base of 85.4 million as of December 2023, as per the NSE data. UP was under-penetrated, but after the pandemic, it has seen phenomenal growth in new UCCs," said Uttam Bagri, promoter director, BCB Brokerage Pvt. Ltd. We will see normalizing of growth in UCCs going forward, but there will be a keen contest for the top slot in terms of new additions." From a multi-year low of 7511.1 on 24 March 2020, the Nifty has risen 190% to 21782.5 as of 9 February, sparking massive domestic investor interest. Polish farmers have resumed protests on the border with Ukraine. As a result, vehicular traffic at a number of checkpoints is virtually blocked: only a few vehicles per hour are allowed to pass. ADVERTISIMENT This was reported by the State Border Guard Service. They noted that traffic is hampered at the following checkpoints: Medyka - Shehyni; Hrebenne - Rava-Ruska; Dorohusk - Yagodyn. "Due to the protests of Polish farmers that started today, the movement of some checkpoints is hampered. We recommend that travelers plan their route through other checkpoints," the statement said. How many cars do the protesters let through? According to the border guards, the protesters are set to let 1 truck per hour through the Medyka checkpoint. As well as: 1 bus; 1 car. Near the Hrebenne checkpoint, it is planned to let through 2 trucks per hour in both directions. The movement of cars and buses will not be restricted. At the Dorohusk checkpoint, the protesters intend to let 1 truck in both directions through every hour. "Bus traffic will remain unchanged," the State Border Guard Service said. ADVERTISIMENT Polish authorities support farmers At the same time, Polish Agriculture Minister Czeslaw Sekerski said that farmers' protests against the influx of goods from Ukraine are justified. According to him, Poland and other countries bordering Ukraine allegedly "suffered the most from the EU's decision to liberalize trade, to open the EU to the inflow of goods from Ukraine, without duties, without quotas." "Farmers have legitimate fears, expectations, and demands to limit the excessive flow of goods from Ukraine and other non-European markets to the EU, particularly to Poland. We will definitely negotiate to the end, because the truth is on the side of farmers and the Ministry of Agrarian Policy, which shares a similar position with farmers," he said. At the same time, he emphasized that in certain areas a complete blockade of imports would be required. He cited the situation with grain as an example. ADVERTISIMENT "It may be necessary to do so in relation to sugar and poultry. We will make proposals to the EC, but we also want to establish this in our relations with Ukraine," Sekerski said. The EU supported Ukraine, not Poland Earlier, Business Inside reported that the EU would not introduce quotas for some Ukrainian products, as the EC refused to respond to Poland's request. Moreover, the EC is preparing a draft decision to extend duty-free trade with Ukraine. It is expected that this regime will be in effect at least until June 2025. Poland justified its request by saying that imports of Ukrainian products to Europe were allegedly becoming a problem for Western European countries. And it was not just about grain. In particular, Poland noted, France, Austria, and Germany raised the issue of a threat to their markets: ADVERTISIMENT poultry fruit sugar. "These countries are talking, in particular, about the need to renew tariff quotas, which are now suspended under EU rules. We appealed to the European Commission with a request to restore tariff quotas for some sensitive products, but this was rejected by the European Commission," said Polish Agriculture Minister Czeslaw Sekerski. As reported by OBOZ.UA, the Polish authorities are planning to tighten control on the border with Ukraine. In particular, they want to intensify inspections of goods coming from our country. Polish Minister Czeslaw Sekerski conducted inspections at the Medyka and Korczowa border crossing points and announced tighter control and more intensive inspections. Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! ESAF Small Finance Bank witnessed a sharp decline of 16.35%, hitting an all-time low of 65.45 per share in today's trading session, marking its most significant intraday drop since its listing in November last year. Investor sentiment soured as the bank's asset quality deteriorated quarter-on-quarter in Q3. Its Gross Non-Performing Assets (GNPA) ratio rose to 4.16%, up from 2.64% in Q2FY24, although it showed improvement from 7.24% in Q3 FY23. Also Read: LIC's journey so far: A muted debut, a long rough patch and a stellar rebound, this stock has seen it all Similarly, the Net Non-Performing Assets (NNPA) ratio increased to 2.19% from 1.19% in Q2FY24 but was lower compared to 3.73% in Q3FY23. Provisions surged to 137.8 crore in Q3 from 101.4 crore in the preceding quarter, representing a QoQ gain of 36.7%. The bank's operating expenses soared by 46.4% year-on-year to 429.3 crore, primarily driven by a substantial 54.1% increase in other expenses to 327.1 crore. These heightened expenses, coupled with increased provisions, impacted the bank's profitability, resulting in a net profit of 112.1 crore, a 20% decrease quarter-on-quarter. However, on a YoY basis, the net profit surged sharply by 200%. On the operational front, Net Interest Income (NII) witnessed a growth of 32.3% year-on-year to 597 crore compared to 451 crore in Q3 FY23, and NIM stood at 10.6%. Looking at it sequentially, the NII came in flat, and the NIM dropped by 40 basis points. The bank's cost of funds increased to 7.3% in Q3 FY24 from 6.2% in the corresponding period last year. Also Read: 3.35 to 25.35: Small-cap stock under 50 rallies 650% in four years ESAF Small Finance Bank (ESFB), a scheduled commercial bank, commenced its operations on March 10, 2017. The company made its debut on Dalal Street on November 10, 2023, listing at a premium of 15.1% at 69 per share compared to the issue price of 60 per share. The company raised 390 crore via the IPO, employing a mix of fresh equity share issuance and an offer-for-sale (OFS) component. Disclaimer: We advise investors to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has restricted deposits and credit transactions in Paytm Payment Bank accounts. This was announced in a circular issued on Feb 8, 2024 and uploaded on the official website of pension fund body. The circular has categorically informed all the field offices to stop accepting claims associated with bank accounts in Paytm Payment Bank starting Feb 23, 2024. The pension fund body also stated that publicity should be initiated to raise awareness about this change. After RBI restriction In the wake of RBI imposing restrictions on deposit and credit transactions in the customer accounts of Paytm Payments Bank after Feb 29, 2024, EPFO has decided to keep the beleaguered payments bank accounts out of its network. All the field offices are advised to refrain from accepting claims associated with bank accounts in Paytm Payments Bank with effect from Feb 23, 2024," reads the circular. RBI crackdown For the unversed, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued an order on Jan 31, directing Paytm Payments Bank to stop onboarding new customers with immediate effect. This was done after comprehensive system audit report and subsequent compliance validation report of the external auditors revealed persistent non-compliances and significant supervisory concerns in the financial institution. ALSO READ: 'If paytm complied with everything, why would RBI act?' The banking regulator had also stated that no further deposits or credit transactions or top ups would be allowed in any customer accounts, prepaid instruments, wallets, FASTags, NCMC cards etc after February 29, 2024 other than any interest, cashbacks or refunds which may be credited anytime. The RBI had also directed that withdrawal of utilisation of balances by its customers from their accounts including savings bank accounts, current accounts, prepaid instruments, FASTags, National Common Mobility Cards etc are to be permitted without any restrictions, upto their available balance. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Family offices are one-stop wealth management for Ultra-HNIs and look after investments, estate planning , tax efficiency and philanthropy among other things. In an interview with MintGenie, Rajmohan Krishnan, Principal Founder & Managing Director, Entrust Family Office talks about their approach to wealth management, succession planning and managing risks. Edited excerpts: Can you provide some guidance on the triggers or key indicators that suggest an individual should consider engaging a family office for their financial needs? Engaging with a family office is a significant decision that individuals typically consider when their financial situation becomes more complex and requires a more comprehensive approach to wealth management. Here are some scenarios/ triggers that suggest when an individual should consider engaging a family office for their financial needs: Significant wealth accumulation: When an individual or family has accumulated substantial wealth, managing diverse and complex assets can become challenging. A family office can provide expertise in handling large investment portfolios, real estate holdings, and other high-value assets. Multigenerational wealth transfer: If there is a need for comprehensive estate planning and wealth transfer strategies to pass on assets to future generations efficiently, a family office can help design and implement strategies that align with family values and objectives. Complex financial structure: As financial situations become more intricate, involving various investment vehicles, trusts, and legal structures, a family office can coordinate and manage these complexities, ensuring effective financial governance. Business ownership and succession planning: Individuals with substantial ownership in private businesses may require specialised assistance in business succession planning. Family offices can facilitate the transition of ownership and provide guidance on optimising wealth during this process. Global financial footprint: For individuals with assets and interests in multiple jurisdictions, managing international tax implications, regulatory compliance, and currency risk can be daunting. Family offices with international expertise can navigate these complexities. Personalized financial planning: Family offices often offer personalised financial planning services, taking into account not only investment strategies but also lifestyle considerations, philanthropy, and other aspects of a client's unique situation. Risk management: Families with significant wealth often face unique risks. A family office can help identify and manage these risks, including market risks, cybersecurity threats, and other challenges associated with wealth preservation. Concierge services: Some family offices offer concierge services, assisting with non-financial aspects of a client's life, such as travel arrangements, kids' educational needs and other lifestyle needs. Privacy and confidentiality: High-net-worth individuals often value privacy. Family offices can provide a discreet and confidential environment for managing financial affairs. Before engaging a family office, it's essential for individuals to carefully assess their needs, goals, and preferences. Family office engagement is a significant decision, and individuals should ensure that the chosen family office aligns well with their unique financial circumstances and objectives. Can you share specific examples of how you have successfully addressed unique financial problems or goals for individual clients? Let me share an instance where we assisted a high-net-worth individual in estate planning. Our client was keen on transferring wealth to their next generation in the most efficient manner possible. To address this, our family office developed a comprehensive estate plan. This wasn't just any plan it involved a careful integration of trusts, strategic gifting, and a keen focus on optimising tax implications. The goal was clear, ensure a smooth and tax-efficient transfer of assets. It's about aligning our client's vision with the practical aspects of wealth transfer, ensuring that their legacy is preserved and passed on in the best way possible. Startup exits: Now, let's talk about another interesting scenario involving an entrepreneur planning to exit their business. This individual was not just looking at the exit; they were also eyeing a seamless transition into retirement. Our role? Quite instrumental. Our shared CFO team was deeply involved in guiding the founder through the exit process. We helped them prepare for everything, especially the tax implications post-exit. But our involvement didn't stop there. Understanding their investment objectives, we crafted a comprehensive investment plan. And today, we continue to manage their investments. Our advisory extends beyond financial matters, ensuring a holistic approach to their post-exit life. International wealth management: Moving onto international wealth management, we once had a business family with assets and interests spread across multiple countries. This brought up a complex mix of international tax and regulatory considerations. Our approach with Entrust was to help them navigate the intricate web of international tax laws. Managing cross-border investments and ensuring compliance in various jurisdictions was the key. Our focus was to optimise their global financial position, addressing the unique challenges that come with international wealth management. Setting up a family trust for a special needs child: Finally, I'd like to share a very sensitive and important case. We worked with a family in South India who needed to set up a family trust for their special needs child. This wasn't just a financial engagement; it was an emotional journey. The family had diligently created and set aside wealth for their child's current and future needs. However, they were concerned about the management and protection of this wealth after their lifetime, especially since their other child, who lived abroad, couldn't be the immediate caretaker or legal guardian. Our role was twofold. Firstly, to ensure that the assets set aside for the child were protected from external influences or creditors. Secondly, to manage the investments made into the childs trust optimally. Our focus was always on ensuring the care and well-being of the child, catering to all her needs throughout her lifetime. What sets family office services apart from traditional financial planning and wealth management services offered by banks or financial advisors? Family office services differ from traditional financial planning and wealth management services offered by banks or financial advisors in several key ways: Comprehensive and integrated approach: Family offices take a holistic and integrated approach to managing the financial affairs of high-net-worth individuals and families. They provide a wide range of services, including investment management, estate planning, tax optimization, philanthropy, and lifestyle management. Traditional financial advisors often focus on specific aspects of financial planning, such as investment management or retirement planning, and may not provide the same level of comprehensive services as family offices. Customization and personalization: Family offices tailor their services to the unique needs, goals, and values of each client. They often offer highly personalised solutions, taking into account the individual circumstances and complexities of high-net-worth families. While financial advisors aim to provide personalised advice, their services may be more standardised, and the level of customization may not be as extensive as that offered by family offices. Lifestyle and concierge services: Many family offices go beyond traditional financial services to offer concierge services that address non-financial aspects of clients' lives. This can include travel planning, educational consulting, and other lifestyle management services. Traditional financial advisors typically focus solely on financial aspects and may not provide the same level of lifestyle-related services. Independence and objectivity: Family offices can operate as independent entities, providing objective advice that is not tied to specific financial products or services. This independence can enhance their ability to act solely in the best interest of the client. Advisors associated with banks or financial institutions may have affiliations that could potentially influence their recommendations. Focus on high-net-worth clients: Family offices typically cater to high-net-worth individuals and families, allowing them to specialise in addressing the unique needs and complexities associated with substantial wealth. Financial advisors associated with larger financial institutions may serve a broader client base, including individuals with varying levels of wealth. Long-term relationship and generational planning: Family offices often focus on building long-term relationships with clients and may be involved in generational planning to ensure the continuity of wealth management across multiple generations. While some traditional advisors emphasise long-term relationships, the emphasis on generational planning may not be as pronounced as in family offices. How do you tailor your services to meet the different objectives? Let us see how we serve Ultra-High Net Worth Individuals (UHNIs) in detail. Customised wealth management: The cornerstone of our services is customised wealth management. Here, we craft an investment strategy uniquely tailored to each client. This involves a deep understanding of their risk tolerance, financial goals, and the time frame they're working with. Asset allocation isn't a one-size-fits-all; it's carefully aligned with the client's financial objectives, their comfort with risk, and the ever-evolving market conditions. It's a dynamic process, one where we're constantly fine-tuning to stay aligned with our client's vision. Estate planning: Estate Planning is another critical area of our expertise. We assist in creating and implementing comprehensive estate plans. This isn't just about drafting documents; it's about setting up trusts, strategizing tax planning, and succession planning to ensure a seamless transfer of wealth. Additionally, we develop strategies for wealth protection, incorporating insurance and other risk mitigation measures. Our goal is to safeguard our client's legacy, ensuring it endures and thrives through generations. Tax planning and compliance: Navigating the complex world of tax planning and compliance is a significant aspect of our services. We implement tax-efficient strategies tailored to reduce our client's tax liability. This involves a thorough understanding of current tax regulations and an eye on potential changes in tax laws. Moreover, we ensure strict compliance with all relevant tax laws and regulations, keeping our clients clear of legal complexities and aligned with best practices. Philanthropy and social impact: For clients keen on making a difference, we offer guidance in philanthropy and social impact. This includes helping them with charitable giving strategies, like establishing and managing charitable foundations or trusts. Beyond this, we integrate socially responsible and impact investments into their portfolio, aligning their wealth with their values and the change they wish to see in the world. Legal and regulatory compliance: Lastly, legal and regulatory compliance is an area we emphasise greatly. We engage with legal professionals to ensure compliance with both local and international laws and regulations. Keeping abreast of changes in financial regulations is crucial, and we adjust strategies as needed to remain compliant. This proactive approach ensures that our client's wealth management strategies are not only effective but also adhere to the highest legal and regulatory standards. In essence, our family office services are designed to be as unique as each UHNI client we serve. In terms of estate planning, can you explain how a family office works with individuals to create a comprehensive plan that aligns with their values and ensures the smooth transfer of assets to heirs? Sure. Heres how we go about it. Understanding client objectives and values: Our initial approach involves conducting in-depth discussions with our clients to thoroughly understand their financial goals, family dynamics, and core values. It's crucial for us to identify their specific objectives regarding wealth transfer, philanthropic aspirations, and legacy preservation. This understanding forms the bedrock of our planning process. Structuring the estate plan: Based on this understanding, we then develop a customised estate plan that considers the client's unique circumstances and goals. Our team recommends appropriate legal structures, such as wills, trusts, and family limited partnerships. The aim is to optimise tax efficiency and asset protection, ensuring that the plan reflects the client's wishes and financial objectives. Wealth transfer strategies: We implement tax-efficient strategies to minimise estate taxes and facilitate the smooth transfer of wealth to heirs. Advising on gifting strategies is also a part of our service, ensuring that wealth transfer is aligned with the client's intentions and the beneficiaries' needs. Education and communication: A critical aspect of our role involves educating family members about the importance of estate planning and the specifics of the established plan. We facilitate open communication among family members to minimise potential conflicts and ensure a smooth transition of wealth and responsibilities. Asset protection: Our team implements strategies to protect family assets from potential creditors, lawsuits, and other risks. Advising on the use of trusts and legal structures that offer asset protection benefits is part of our comprehensive approach to safeguarding our clients' wealth. Coordination with legal and tax professionals: Collaborating closely with legal and tax professionals is key to ensuring that the estate plan complies with all relevant laws and regulations. We coordinate efforts to address complex legal and tax issues related to wealth transfer, ensuring a seamless and compliant process. Padmaja Choudhury is a freelance financial content writer. With around six years of total experience, mutual funds and personal finance are her focus areas. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Investing in mutual funds has always been a popular choice for investors seeking long-term growth and diversification. While historical returns are often a crucial consideration for potential investors, there are several other factors that play a significant role in their decision-making process. Factors such as the reputation of the fund house, the category of the scheme, and the overall performance of the market are key considerations that can influence an investor's decision. If you have invested in mutual funds this calendar year, it is likely that you have enjoyed favourable returns, making it a rewarding period for mutual fund investors. Here we present list of the best mutual funds to invest based on their past one-year returns: Large cap funds Large Cap Funds 1-year-returns (%) Taurus Large Cap Fund 36.72 Quant Large Cap Fund 49.24 JM Large Cap Fund 38.25 Bank of India Bluechip Fund 39.10 Nippon India Large Cap Fund 36.10 Large cap schemes are suitable for risk-averse equity investors seeking safety. These funds invest in the top 100 stocks, providing relatively stable returns and lower volatility compared to mid cap and small cap schemes. Invest in large cap schemes for modest returns and stability. Mid Cap Funds Mid Cap Funds 1-year-returns (%) HDFC Mid-Cap Opportunities Fund 53.75 HSBC Midcap Fund 50.64 Mahindra Manulife Mid Cap Fund 58.59 JM Midcap Fund 57.90 Quant Mid Cap Fund 60.24 Mid cap mutual fund schemes are ideal for diversifying portfolios due to their investments in medium-sized companies with strong growth potential. Nevertheless, these funds carry a notable degree of risk, falling between the higher risk of small-cap stocks and lower risk of large-cap ones. Value Funds Value Funds 1-year-returns (%) Quant Value Fund 65.44 Nippon India Value Fund 54.11 JM Value Fund 59.08 HSBC Value Fund 50.03 ABSL Pure Value Fund 54.43 (Source: AMFI; returns as on Feb 8, 2024) Value funds are mutual fund schemes that employ a value investment strategy and allocate at least 65 percent of their assets to stocks. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Groww Mutual Fund announced the launch of the Groww Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund, an open-ended scheme replicating/tracking the Nifty Smallcap 250 Index-TRI. The scheme opened for public subscription on February 09, 2024, and will close on February 23, 2024. The scheme re-opens for ongoing subscription and redemption within five business days from the date of allotment of units. What kind of mutual fund scheme is this? This is an open-ended scheme replicating/tracking the Nifty Smallcap 250 Index-TRI. This product is suitable for investors Looking for returns that correspond to the performance of the Nifty Smallcap 250 Total Return Index subject to tracking error Seeking long-term capital growth What is the main objective of investing in this fund? The scheme seeks investment return that corresponds to the performance of the Nifty Smallcap 250 Total Return Index subject to tracking error. However, there can be no assurance or guarantee that the investment objective of the scheme will be achieved. How may one invest in this scheme? Investors can invest under the scheme with a minimum investment of 500 per plan/option and in multiples of Re 1. There is no upper limit for investment. Under normal circumstances, the asset allocation of the scheme will be as follows: Instruments Indicative allocations (% of total assets) Risk Profile Minimum Maximum Equity and equity related securities of companies constituting the underlying index (NIFTY Smallcap 250 Index-TRI) 95% 100% Very High Debt & Money Market Instruments / and units of debt schemes# / units of debt ETFs 0% 5% Low to Medium Are there similar mutual funds in the market? To date, many other asset management companies (AMCs) have launched similar funds in India. The following table illustrates the fund names along with their past three-year returns, thus, highlighting their efficacy in ones investment portfolio. Name of the fund house Name of the fund Three-year returns (in %) Motilal Oswal Mutual Fund Motilal Oswal Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund 32.20 HDFC Mutual Fund HDFC Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund - Nippon India Mutual Fund Nippon India Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund 32.09 Edelweiss Mutual Fund Edelweiss Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund - ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund ICICI Prudential Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund - SBI Mutual Fund SBI Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund - Source: AMFI (As of February 09, 2024) How will the scheme benchmark its performance? The performance of the scheme shall be benchmarked to the Nifty Smallcap 250 Index - TRI. Since the scheme is an index fund, the compositions are such that it is most suited for comparing the performance of the scheme. Are there any entry or exit loads to this scheme? This scheme involves no Entry Load", which means that investors do not have to pay anything to park their earnings in this scheme. The Exit Load" would also be Nil". Who will manage this scheme? Abhishek Jain has been chosen as the dedicated fund manager of the scheme. Does the fund contain any inherent risk? The scheme involves Very High Risk" as per the details mentioned in the Scheme Information Document and is best suited to investors willing to understand that their principal will be subject to very high risk. However, investors should consult their financial advisors if they doubt whether the product is suitable for them. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Some investors invest in multiple mutual fund schemes based on diversified market capitalisation indices, sectoral, thematic, factor-based indices, etc. Sometimes, they end up investing in multiple schemes based on the same criteria (for example, two largecap or two flexicap schemes) across different AMCs. It can lead to a lot of overlap as the different schemes that the investor has invested in across categories and AMCs may end up owning a lot of common stocks. Let us see how, with three index funds , you can build a simple investment portfolio of top 750 stocks with 0 overlap. Three index funds simple portfolio of top 750 stocks As an investor, you can build a portfolio of top 750 stocks with 0 overlap with the following three index funds: 1) Nifty LargeMidcap 250 Index Fund 2) Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund and 3) Nifty Microcap 250 Index Fund Nifty LargeMidcap 250 Index Fund The Nifty LargeMidcap 250 Index comprises Indias top 250 stocks in terms of market capitalisation. It represents the top 100 largecap companies that are a part of the Nifty 100 Index and the top 150 midcap companies that are a part of the Nifty 150 Midcap Index. The Nifty LargeMidcap 250 Index has equal weightage to large and midcaps. So, when you invest Rs. 100 in the index, Rs. 50 gets allocated to India's top 100 largecap companies and Rs. 50 gets allocated to the top 150 mid-cap companies. The weights are reset quarterly. The Nifty LargeMidcap 250 Index gives you a combination of the stability of largecaps and the high growth potential of midcaps in a single scheme. As of February 2024, two mutual fund houses offer 3 Nifty LargeMidcap 250 index funds for investment: a) Edelweiss Nifty LargeMid Cap 250 Index Fund b) Zerodha Nifty LargeMidcap 250 Index Fund c) Zerodha ELSS Tax Saver Nifty LargeMidcap 250 Index Fund Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund Now that your investment in large and midcaps are taken care of with a single Nifty LargeMidcap Index Fund, let us shift focus to smallcaps. You can invest in smallcaps through a Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund. It will give you exposure to India's top 250 smallcap companies in terms of market capitalisation. In the calendar year 2023, the Nifty Smallcap 250 Index gave returns of around 49%, making it one of the best-performing indices. However, keep in mind that the high return potential of smallcaps comes with high risk. Some of the mutual fund houses that offer an opportunity to invest in smallcap index funds include: a) HDFC Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund b) ICICI Prudential Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund c) Motilal Oswal Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund d) Nippon Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund e) SBI Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund etc. Nifty Microcap 250 Index Fund The Nifty Microcap 250 Index gives you exposure to India's top 250 microcap companies in terms of market capitalisation. Like smallcaps, microcap companies come with high risk and high return potential. As of February, there is only one index fund in this category: Motilal Oswal Nifty Microcap 250 Index Fund. Building an investment portfolio with 0 overlap You can build an investment portfolio by starting a systematic investment plan (SIP) in each of the three index funds. It will give you exposure to Indias 750 top companies with 0 overlap. If you want equal exposure to large, mid, small, and microcap companies, you can split the investment of every Rs. 100 as follows: a) Rs. 50 in a Nifty LargeMidcap 250 Index Fund (the Rs. 50 will be further allocated as Rs. 25 to 100 largecap companies and Rs. 25 to 150 midcap companies) b) Rs. 25 in a Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund c) Rs. 25 in a Nifty Microcap 250 Index Fund The above investment strategy will give you 25% exposure to each of the four categories: large, mid, small, and microcap companies. However, do note that small and microcap companies carry high risk. Hence, you may accordingly take lower exposure to small and microcap companies and higher exposure to large and midcap companies. Here is a summary of how to build an investment portfolio of three index funds with exposure to Indias top 750 stocks with 0 overlap. Index Feature Index funds Nifty LargeMidcap 250 Index 50% exposure to 100 largecap companies and 50% exposure to 150 midcap companies Edelweiss Nifty LargeMid Cap 250 Index Fund, Zerodha Nifty LargeMidcap 250 Index Fund, Zerodha ELSS Tax Saver Nifty LargeMidcap 250 Index Fund Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Exposure to 250 smallcap companies HDFC Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund, ICICI Prudential Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund, Motilal Oswal Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund, Nippon Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund, SBI Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund etc. Nifty Microcap 250 Index Exposure to 250 microcap companies Motilal Oswal Microcap 250 Index Fund Benefits of index funds In the last few years, equity index funds have gained popularity among investors. The broader market capitalisation index funds provide much-needed diversification in terms of number of stocks and sectors. The expense ratio of index funds is lower than active funds. Also, index funds are free from fund manager bias. Thus, you can build a low-cost investment portfolio with 0 overlap with index funds. Gopal Gidwani is a freelance personal finance content writer with 15+ years of experience. He can be reached at LinkedIn. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Amid the ongoing India-Maldives row, the United Stated has said that it is committed to strengthening cooperation with the Indian Ocean archipelagic nation and described Maldives as a key partner in ensuring a free, open, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. The statement came from US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Donald Lu who recently visited the Maldives for discussions with the country's new administration and the civil society. When Lu was asked on his visit to Maldives from 29-31 January, he told news agency PTI that, The United States is committed to strengthening cooperation with the Maldives, a key partner in ensuring a free, open, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region." His remarks come at a time when there is an ongoing diplomatic row between the Maldives and India following a demand by President Muizzu to withdraw all 88 Indian military personnel from his country. There have been growing global concerns over China's increasing military muscle-flexing in the Indo-Pacific region. While in Male, Lu also met with Mohamed Muizzu and other senior officials to discuss shared priorities, including defence cooperation, economic growth, and democratic governance. "They also discussed progress on establishing the US Embassy in Maldives that will further strengthen our partnership and people-to-people ties," the spokesperson said as quoted by PTI. Lu also met with members of civil society and higher education officials to discuss democratic governance and transparency in the Maldives, said the spokesperson. Soon after taking oath as the President of Maldives on November 17, Muizzu formally requested India to withdraw 88 military personnel from his country by March 15, saying the Maldivian people have given him a "strong mandate" to make this request to New Delhi. Following talks between the two countries, India on Thursday said it will replace its military personnel operating three aviation platforms in the Maldives with "competent" Indian technical personnel. "I would like to say that the present personnel will be replaced by competent Indian technical personnel," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said at his weekly media briefing in New Delhi. Meanwhile, Muizzu on Monday said the first group of Indian military personnel will be sent back before March 10 and the remaining manning ones will be withdrawn before May 10. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) after completing its Article IV Mission to the Maldives said that the South Asian nation's post-pandemic growth has been strong, but recently normalised. (With inputs from PTI) Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! (Bloomberg) -- Arm Holdings Plc shares surged as much as 64% on Thursday after artificial intelligence spending helped bolster the chip designers forecast. And the companys chief executive officer said the remarkable opportunity presented by AI is still in its early stages. AI is not in any way, shape or form a hype cycle," Rene Haas said in an interview on Bloomberg Television. We believe that AI is the most profound opportunity in our lifetimes, and were only at the beginning." The remarks followed a blockbuster earnings report Thursday, when Arm projected revenue of $850 million to $900 million for the March quarter. That far surpassed analysts projections of $778 million. Earnings will be roughly 30 cents, excluding some items, well ahead of Wall Streets 21-cent estimate. Arms technology is going into an ever-widening array of products, from phones to cars to appliances. The scramble to add AI technology promises to accelerate that expansion, Haas said. In some cases, electronics makers dont yet know how theyll fully harness AI they just want to make sure they have enough computing capacity to handle whatever is coming. Arm once concentrated on technology for smartphones, but now that market accounts for about a third of sales. Phones today also contain more of the companys technology per device, helping lift the royalties that manufacturers pay to Arm. This is the result of strategies that were put in place a number of years ago that are coming to fruition," Haas said in the interview. A lot of folks didnt really understand the company well and where we fit in: But were in a Tesla vehicle, a Ford F-150, we are in a smart camera, a Samsung TV, the smart appliances." Arms bullish outlook, delivered late Wednesday, helped send the shares on their biggest intraday rally since an initial public offering last September. The stock traded as high as $126.59, adding tens of billions of dollars to Arms market valuation. Another tailwind: The companys customers are shifting to a new version of its technology called V9, which carries twice the royalty rate of its predecessors. Theyre also using more Arm computing cores per device more than 100 in Microsoft Corp.s new server chips, for example which amplifies royalties. Arm is also gaining market share from rival technology in the data-center and automotive markets, executives said. Arm now expects sales of $3.16 billion to $3.21 billion in fiscal 2024, which runs through March. Thats up from a previous range that topped out at $3.08 billion. Revenue grew 14% to $824 million in the fiscal third quarter. Excluding some items, profit was 29 cents a share. Wall Street had predicted revenue of $760 million and earnings of 25 cents a share. Arms joint venture in China was a nice positive surprise" as well, according to Chief Financial Officer Jason Child. It contributed 25% of total revenue. Arm has an unusual role in the semiconductor industry. It licenses the fundamental set of instructions that software uses to communicate with chips. The company also provides so-called design blocks that companies such as Qualcomm Inc. use to build their products. Under Haas, Arm has been moving toward providing more complete layouts that can be taken directly to the manufacturing stage. That shift makes it more useful to some customers, such as cloud computing companies like Amazon.com Inc., but also more of a rival to some traditional clients, like Qualcomm. Cambridge, England-based Arm is still 90%-owned by SoftBank Group Corp., which acquired the business in 2016 for $32 billion. An IPO in 2023 raised $4.9 billion, marking the biggest debut on a US exchange in 2023. Read More: SoftBank Swings to Profit and Refocuses Its Strategy Around Arm Arms licensing sales rose 18% to $354 million last quarter, and royalty revenue gained 11% to $470 million. Arms customer list spans the technology industry. Apple Inc. uses its instruction set for the processors that power the iPhone and Mac computers. Amazon relies on Arm designs for its Graviton server processors for data centers. And Qualcomm and MediaTek Inc. are major users of Arms blueprints for smartphone processors. --With assistance from Subrat Patnaik, Caroline Hyde and Ed Ludlow. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Haldwani News: Clashes erupted in Uttarakhand's Haldwani on Thursday over the demolition of an "illegally built" madrasa and an adjoining mosque. Amid the communal tensions and violence, four companies of paramilitary forces have been rushed to Haldwani during an anti-encroachment drive. A shoot-at-sight order has been issued against the rioters. Internet has also been suspended adding that schools, and colleges too are shut today. The Uttarakhand government has issued high alert in the entire state after the violence in Banbhoolpura of Haldwani. Check top 10 updates on Haldwani violence Nainital District Magistrate Vandana Singh termed the incident as unfortunate and assured that the accused will be identified and strict action will be taken against them. Singh emphasized that the incident was not communal in nature and urged everyone to refrain from making it a communal or sensitive issue. She clarified that no particular community was involved in the retaliation. Four people died in the violence-hit Banbhoolpura while more than 100 policemen were injured, State ADG Law & Order AP Anshuman said as reported by news agency ANI. View Full Image Haldwani, Feb 08 (ANI): An injured police personnel receives medical attention at a hospital after violence broke out following an anti-encroachment drive at Banbhoolpura in Haldwani on Thursday. (ANI Photo) Four companies of paramilitary forces were rushed to Haldwani, according to the Uttarakhand Police, two companies of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) from Udham Singh Nagar also reached Haldwani. Speaking to ANI on Thursday, Inspector General Nilesh Anand Bharne, the spokesperson for Police Headquarters, said, "Four companies of paramilitary personnel have been sent to the violence-hit area of Haldwani. Two companies of PAC from Udham Singh Nagar have already reached Haldwani." Nainital District Administration ordered internet services suspension. The administration has also ordered the closure of all schools and colleges. View Full Image Haldwani: Vehicles set on fire by miscreants after officials demolished a madrasa, in Haldwani, Uttarakhand, Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. (PTI Photo) Speaking to reporters, DM (Nainital) Vandana Singh said, The primary goal of the authorities is to establish peace in the area. Para-military forces, along with other arrangements, are being deployed to prevent property damage and avoid any casualties." A curfew has been enforced in Banbhoolpura on the orders of the District Magistrate and a shoot-at-sight order has also been issued against 'rioters'. A curfew was imposed on Thursday after local residents set vehicles and a police station on fire and hurled stones over the demolition of an "illegally built" madrasa and an adjoining mosque. View Full Image Haldwani: Vehicles set on fire by miscreants over the demolition of an 'illegally built' madrasa at Banbhoolpura area, in Haldwani, Uttarakhand, Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. (PTI Photo) Most of the people hospitalised after the violence at Malik ka Bagicha in the city's Banbhoolpura area were police personnel. The remaining were municipal workers involved in the demolition of the local madrasa and a mosque in its complex, officials said as reported by PTI. Speaking on the violence, Uttarakhand minister Ganesh Joshi, said, The incident that took place today in Haldwanis Banbhoolpura area is unfortunate. All signs point towards it being an organised conspiracy. CM Dhami government is closely monitoring the situation." Senior Superintendent of Police Prahlad Meena said the madrasa and the mosque stood on an illegally encroached government land and the demolitions were carried out in the heavy presence of police and Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) personnel in compliance with a court order. Angry residents, including women, in large numbers descended on the streets to protest the action as the demolition of the two structures began. They were seen breaking barricades and arguing with the police personnel engaged in the demolition exercise. As a bulldozer razed the madrasa and the mosque, mobs hurled stones at the police personnel, municipal corporation workers and journalists. (With agency inputs) Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! At least one person was injured as stones were reportedly pelted in the Shamat Ganj area in Uttar Pradesh's Bareilly on Friday. India Today quoted the district magistrate as saying that the police are investigating the matter and a first information report (FIR) will be lodged. ALSO READ: 'Stone-pelting' in Haryana's Nuh: 8 injured, markets shut, three minors quizzed | 5 things know so far The incident was reported after the chief of Ittehad-e-Millat Council, Bareilly Sharif, Maulana Tauqeer Raza was detained by police for giving a 'jail bharo' call over the Gyanvapi matter. Tauqeer Raza Khan had given a 'jail bharo andolan' (fill the prison) call on Thursday, asking his supporters to follow him and get arrested, India Today reported. ALSO READ: Markets shut in protest, FIR filed for stone pelting in Nuh A large crowd had gathered in Bareilly, following Maulana Tauqeer Raza's call. The incident took place after the Friday prayers in Bareilly, INDIA TV reported. According to the report, the stone pelting incident was reported in Shyamganj market. "The miscreants who came to Tauqeer Raza's protest pelted stones in which many people sustained injuries. The police later brought the situation under control," the report said. ALSO READ: Stone pelting on procession in Thane district hours after group clash The Islamic cleric's call came after Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's statement in the Assembly on Ayodhya, Kashi and Mathura. "When I speak about injustice, we recall the 5000-year-old thing. Injustice was done even to the Pandavas at that time...That had happened with Ayodhya, Kashi and Mathura," CM Yogi had said in the Assembly. People all over the world are working to defend Ukraine, not only military personnel but also people who are far from military affairs. Even such giants as Microsoft, Amazon, Google, and Starlink have joined the effort, allocating hundreds of millions of dollars to defend our country. ADVERTISIMENT This is exactly what Time magazine writes about, with its latest issue featuring a cover story about Ukraine. The magazine describes "how tech giants have turned Ukraine into a military laboratory of artificial intelligence." An example is the American face recognition company Clearview AI. It is known that as soon as Russia invaded Ukraine, Clearview CEO Hoan Ton-That sent a letter to official Kyiv offering assistance. The company helped identify more than 230,000 Russians in Ukraine, as well as the exact location of collaborators and abducted children. Time also talks about the visit of Palantir Technologies founder Alex Karp to Ukraine in the summer of 2022. Palantir is a developer of artificial intelligence for analyzing various data. However, the company's main customers are intelligence agencies, investment banks, and hedge funds. ADVERTISIMENT "Palantir has become involved in the daily work of the Ukrainian government in wartime in an unprecedented way. The company's products are used by more than half a dozen Ukrainian agencies, including the ministries of defense, economy, and education," the publication writes. The Ukrainian Armed Forces already have a software engineer in every battalion. Experiments in the field of military AI are being conducted not only in offices but also on the battlefield. "This is the most significant fundamental change in the nature of warfare ever recorded in history," the publication quotes former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley. ADVERTISIMENT "Ukraine is the best testing ground for all the latest technologies because here you can test them in real conditions," the Times quoted Ukrainian Minister of Digital Transformation Fedorov as saying. Subscribe to OBOZ.UA on Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest developments. Known for her short-tempered nature and fearless statements, Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan was seen apologising to all the members of Parliament during her farewell speech. Recently, the parliamentarian made headlines for her stern remarks against Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar during the ongoing Budget Session of Parliament. However, Bachchan chose to speak differently for the last time in the House. In her farewell speech, Jaya Bachchan admitted that she is short-tempered, but she never intended to hurt anyone. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Thursday bid farewell to the 68 MPs of the Upper House of Parliament who retired this year. Calling her short-tempered behaviour a part of her "nature", the Samajwadi Party leader said, I can't change myself. If I don't like or agree with something, I lose my cool." "If I behaved inappropriately with any of you, or got personal, I apologise," she added. On the retirement of the Rajya Sabha member, Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar said that the departure of the members from the house would leave a void. It is often said that every beginning has an end and every end has a new beginning," said Vice President Dhankhar. One never retires from public service, he said and wished the members an active public life further ahead. "This very House represents the diversity of views that our vibrant democracy shares but at the same time it reflects the unity of our purpose as well. We are here with a singular commitment of serving this great land," the Vice President said in his introductory remarks. "You all have etched your name in history for being part of the democratic process in effecting transformational epochal events," Dhankhar said. He termed the Rajya Sabha tenure of the retiring members as impactful in shaping legislative policies and scrutinising government actions. He also paid tributes to five female retirees -- Jaya Bachchan, Vandana Chavan, Kanta Kardam, Sonal Mansingh and Amee Yajnik. All five were on the panel of vice chairpersons. Among those who retired from the Rajya Sabha on Thursday, nine are ministers, ie Dharmendra Pradhan, Narayan Rane, Ashwini Vaishnaw, Mansukh Mandaviya, Bhupendra Yadav, Parshottam Rupala, Rajeev Chandrashekhar, V Muraleedharan, and L Murugan. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Multiple insurance companies are expected to come under the Income Tax department's scanner for paying higher commissions to intermediaries and claiming higher deductions. The IT department is likely to issue demand notices worth a total of 25,000 crore in the coming months, reported Moneycontrol . Also Read: Financial services secy meets private insurers, discusses key issues According to the MC report, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) is doing a reassessment of the tax paid by insurance companies in certain years before April 1, 2023. All the income tax notices will be sent to the insurance companies which paid extra commission during the period, by March this year. Also Read: Polycab share price tanks on reports of over 200-crore tax evasion, companies denies allegations The CBDT is doing a reassessment of the tax paid by insurance companies in certain years before April 1, 2023. The income tax department is in the process of sending out tax notices. By March-end all the income tax notices will be sent for a quantum of approximately 25,000 crore," Moneycontrol quoted an official as saying. Discrepancies emerged after multiple insurance companies paid extra commissions to agents and intermediaries over and above the limit fixed by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI). Also Read: Income Tax notice: 6 high-value cash transactions that can get you flagged by I-T dept Last year, life and general insurance companies like Aditya Birla Sun Life Insurance, and Bajaj Allianz received show-cause notices for alleged evasion of GST of 2,400 crore. Several insurance companies are under scanner for evasion. Last year in April, IRDAI lifted the capping limits on commissions paid to agents to increase transparency in the sector. In November last year, GST officials searched the office of British insurance giant Aviva's Delhi office. The officials also seized documents as part of their investigation into alleged tax evasion. During their visit to Aviva's office, they seized laptops and questioned company officials and senior executives. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! A Mumbai-bound IndiGo flight returned to the national capital on Friday morning, with the airline saying that it was precautionary due to a "momentary foul smell". The flight 6E 449 returned to Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) in a short time after takeoff. In a statement, IndiGo said there was a "momentary foul smell" and the pilot following standard operating procedures landed back in Delhi as a precaution. Specific details could not be immediately ascertained. "An alternate aircraft was arranged for the passengers. We deeply regret the inconvenience caused to all the passengers," the airline said. Yesterday, two of IndiGo's Delhi-Mumbai flights had experienced considerable delays, over which Shaadi.com CEO Anupam Mittal called out the airline for its "inhumane" treatment of passengers on social media platform X. According to Mittal, his IndiGo flight from Delhi to Mumbai was held up on the tarmac for over 45 minutes, with passengers forced to remain inside the aircraft to save costs. And then his flight from Mumbai to Delhi was delayed by over 2 hours. Mittal was dissatisfaction with the lack of a refund offered by the airline. Kya ho gaya tumko IndiGo. Mum-Delhi > 45-minute delay on the tarmac without AC so u can keep costs down. Del-Mum > 2 hr delay but will not refund the ticket. DGCA this is inhumane and should be made illegal," Mittal said in his post. IndiGo had then offered him an apology for the inconvenience and detailed the causes of delay. "Mr Mittal, we extend our sincerest apologies for the inconvenience caused by the delay of your morning flight from Mumbai, which was inadvertently delayed by 30 minutes due to unforeseen traffic congestion. Additionally, we regret to inform you that the delay on the Delhi-Mumbai route resulted from an unexpected medical emergency on the incoming flight. Please rest assured that we understand the importance of your time and the impact such delays can have on your travel plans. We genuinely regret the inconvenience this would have caused." (With PTI inputs) Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Mumbai: Paytms parent One 97 Communications Ltd on Friday said it has formed an advisory committee chaired by M. Damodaran, former chairman of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi). The committee will work with the One97 board on strengthening compliance and regulatory matters. The committee will also include M.M. Chitale, former president of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), and R. Ramachandran, former chairman and managing director of Andhra Bank. Last week, the Reserve Bank of India barred Paytm Payments Bank Ltd (PPBL) from accepting fresh deposits beginning 29 February, and forbade it from undertaking any banking activity, including accepting deposits, credit transactions, wallet top-ups and bill payments. At the RBI policy conference on Thursday, RBI governor Shaktikanta Das reiterated that the crackdown on Paytm was a result of the banks failure to comply with regulations despite repeated warnings. The restrictions were placed after giving the company ample time to rectify its non-compliance issues, he said. However, the RBI also made it clear that the restrictions on the payments bank did not apply to the Paytm app. The regulator also said that it would issue answers to a set of frequently asked questions next week on the Paytm Payments Bank matter. Mint reported on Saturday that the RBIs 31 January crackdown was a result of four primary issues at Paytm Payments Bank. First, the bank falsified compliance on issues pointed out by the regulator, meaning it claimed to have rectified the flaws without actually doing so. Second, Paytm Payments Bank did not conduct KYC for a significant section of its customers, and there were instances of a single PAN (permanent account number)an identity document issued by the income tax departmentbeing linked to hundreds of customers. Third, the non-financial and financial businesses of the payments bank were closely intertwined with that of the promoter group of companies. Fourth, the lender is said to have not disclosed payables to its parent entity One97 Communications Ltd. Abhishek Ghosalkar was shot at on February 8 while he was on Facebook LIVE. The former corporator of Shiv Sena's Uddhav Bal Thackeray group was rushed to Karuna Hospital after the shooting. However, the 40-year-old son of former MLA Vinod Ghosalkar died during treatment. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray has issued his reaction on the incident, While slamming the Ekanth Shinde-led Maharashtra government, he said that the state was witnessing lawlessness like never before". Maharashtra has seen lawlessness like never before. It is shocking beyond words to see the law and order situation fail, as it has today. Does the system exist at all to protect the common man? Does the fear of the law exist? Administration has fully crumbled to being absent," he posted on X (formerly Twitter). Also Read: BJP MLA opened fire at Shiv Sena-EK leader in Thane. 10 developments The brutal killing of Abhishek Ghosalkar is shocking and disturbing. His work as a corporator of Shiv Sena and a staunch Shiv Sainik cannot be forgotten. Heartfelt tribute to him! We share in the grief of the Ghosalkar family. May God give them strength to recover from this great pain," he added in a separate post. Sanjay Raut wrote, "There is a reign of goons in Maharashtra! Mauris Noronha, who shot Abhishek Ghosalkar four days ago, was at the (CM's) bungalow. The chief minister met him." Also Read: Supreme Court issues notice to Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena on Uddhav Thackeray faction's petition "Mauris was invited to join the Shinde Sena. (Devendra) Fadnavis has proved to be a complete failure as Home Minister. He must resign," the Sena (UBT) MP claimed in his post. Priyanka Chaturvedi shared photos of the shooter, Morris, with the people who matter" including CM Shinde. My state deserves better," wrote the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader. Congress leader Supriya Shrinate slammed the triple-engine government" of the state. What is happening in Maharashtra? Shiv Sena (Uddhav) leader Abhishek Ghosalkar was shot dead with three bullets during Facebook Live in Dahisar, Mumbai. Abhishek is the son of Shiv Sena leader Vinod Ghosalkar who was an MLA. Just two days ago, BJP MLA Ganpat Gaikwad had fired 4 bullets at Eknath Shinde Sena city chief Mahesh Gaikwad at a police station in Ulhasnagar, Maharashtra. The law and order situation of this triple-engine government of Eknath Shinde - Devendra Fadnavis - Ajit Pawar has collapsed," she said. The shooter, Mauris Noronha, called himself a philanthropist, social worker, and above all, a human, as per his Instagram bio. He was known by his Insta handle maurisbhai". A probe into the murder has been handed over to Mumbai Crime Branch, PTI reported. Who happened during Facebook LIVE? Mauris invited Ghosalkar to his office for an event, which Ghosalkar broadcasted live on Facebook, as per reports. After the live session, both men stood up, at which point Morris began shooting. Ghosalkar, critically wounded after having been shot 3-4 times, was taken to Karuna Hospital but succumbed to his injuries during treatment. After shooting Ghosalkar, Mauris shot himself to death. A clipping of the said video has gone viral on social media. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong encouraged young couples to have more children to counter the country's falling birth rate. Singaporeans are celebrating Chinese New Year on February 10-11, with an extra holiday on Monday since the festival falls on Sunday. Now is as good a time as any for young couples to add a little dragon to your family," PTI quoted the premier as saying in his annual Lunar New Year message. "So now is as good a time as any for young couples to add a 'little dragon' to your family," said the prime minister who celebrates his birthday on February 10. One important element of family life is having and bringing up children. It is a great joy for parents to bring kids into this world, and to watch them learn and grow, reaching one milestone after another and growing up year-by-year," said Lee who was born in the year of Dragon in 1952. "Grandparents, like me, share this joy too. We dote and fuss over our grandchildren, helping the parents to bring them up and contributing our part in this journey filled with happiness, purpose and love," he said. The dragon is a symbol of power, strength and good fortune," Lee said as he acknowledged that having a baby would be a personal decision. "Ultimately, couples will decide whether to have children for their own reasons. I hope more will decide to go ahead, and I am confident they will find parenthood a deeply rewarding and fulfilling journey," he added. Drop in fertility rate The prime minister mentioned that, globally, fewer babies were being born, with this trend especially noticeable in developed societies like Singapore. In 2022, Singapore saw its lowest ever birth rate of 1.05, even lower than the 1.1 and 1.12 rates in 2020 and 2021, respectively. Indranee Rajah, a minister in the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), explained in February 2023 that the year of the Tiger in the lunar calendar, which traditionally saw fewer Chinese births, contributed to this decline. Singapore relaxed regulations on egg freezing and increased paternity leave to four weeks due to a historic low birth rate per woman in 2022. Similar challenges with declining fertility rates and aging populations are faced by South Korea, China and Japan. (With agency inputs) Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President and former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has won both National and Provincial Assembly seats in Lahore, as reported by Pakistan-based ARY New s on Friday, citing the Election Commission of Pakistan. Meanwhile, Independent candidates supported by former Prime Minister Imran Khan have secured 21 out of the 50 seats counted so far, according to the report from GEO News. Also Read: Pakistan Election Results 2024 Live Updates It is to be further noted that a political party needs to secure at least 133 seats out of the total 272 seats in parliament to achieve a simple majority. In NA-123, Shehbaz Sharif emerged victorious with 63,953 votes, defeating Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-backed independent candidate Afzal Azeem who received 48,486 votes. Also Read: Pakistan Elections: There are expectations that Nawaz Sharif will return, says former High Commission of India to Pak Rigging Allegations Accusations of election rigging loomed large, further fueled by the authorities' decision to shut down the country's mobile phone network on voting day, ostensibly citing security grounds. Polling experts forecasted a minimal voter turnout among the country's 128 million eligible voters, citing a lackluster campaign marked by the incarceration of Khan and legal obstacles hindering the PTI. These impediments included court rulings, bans on rallies, and harassment of party leaders. Digital rights activist Usama Khilji said the mobile service blackout strengthens the popular perception that the elections are rigged by the deep state", AFP reported. As reported by AFP, Raoof Hasan, PTI's secretary for information, said in a video statement that party agents in the field had reported PTI candidates leading in 125 constituencies. An effort may be afoot to tamper with the results," he said of the delay in announcements from ECP headquarters. Gohar Khan, chairman of Imran Khan's PTI party, asserted in a statement on X that their party was leading in over 150 seats, yet expressed concern over alleged attempts to manipulate the results. On the other hand, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, led by Sharif's party, claimed its intention to establish a government in Islamabad. Marriyum Aurangzeb, the information secretary, emphasized the party's confidence in its strong" position. Khan, who faced imprisonment last year following a conviction in one of the more than 170 legal cases filed against him, has maintained his status as Pakistan's most popular politician. He orchestrated demonstrations targeting both Sharif and the military following his removal in a 2022 confidence vote. Also Read: Pakistan Elections: Jailed ex-PM Imran Khan's allies outperform; PTI alleges mass rigging as results delayed. 10 point The postponement of election results was attributed to the suspension of mobile phone services nationwide, coupled with militant attacks resulting in the deaths of at least 12 individuals in remote provinces bordering Afghanistan. Meanwhile, the Interior Ministry issued a statement on Friday morning citing a lack of communication" as the primary cause for the delay in results, which was compounded by precautionary security measures. Also Read: Pakistan Elections 2024: Nawaz Sharif, Bilawal Bhutto lead race; why the outcome is crucial for India? In a setback for Sharif, a senator from his own party, Mushahid Hussain Sayed, shared a screenshot of early unofficial counts on X, revealing a significant lead for independent candidates backed by Khan. Sayed characterized this development as probably the biggest election upset in Pakistans political history in the last 50 years." However, his account on X was withheld after this post in response to a legal demand. View Full Image Sharif faced a setback when a senator from his own party, Mushahid Hussain Sayed, posted early unofficial vote counts on X, but later, the account became inaccessible. (Photo: X) Sharif, having returned from exile in London, was acquitted of corruption charges last year, which cleared the path for his fourth bid to lead Pakistan. Analysts perceive him as being supported by the influential military establishment as a potential replacement for Khan. The incoming leader will face the challenge of managing a significant debt burden and will have to engage in negotiations for a new bailout package from the IMF. Pakistan's current nine-month IMF bailout program, the 23rd since the country's independence in 1947, is set to conclude next month. Pakistan's history is marked by extensive military rule, with the military exerting substantial influence over elected officials. Nawaz Sharif, for instance, experienced being ousted in a 1999 coup and has endured periods of exile throughout his political career. (With inputs from agencies) Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! As Pakistan Elections results are awaited, the Election Commission of Pakistan was accused of rigging he vote counting process on Friday. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party (PTI), founded by former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, claimed that "Nawaz Sharif should be ashamed of himself for stealing public mandate". FOLLOW Pakistan Election Results 2024 Live Updates HERE Nawaz Sharif, the leader of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party, is seeking a record fourth term in the 2024 Pakistan Elections. His party had tweeted earlier on Friday that he won from he "is successful from Constituency NA-130" (Lahore). Are voted being rigged in Pakistan elections? Here are some claims Imran Khan's PTI shared a document on X (formerly known as Twitter) and claimed that "the number of total valid votes (in NA 130 Lahore constituency where Nawaz Sharif contested) is greater than total number of votes casted". ALSO READ: Pakistan elections 2024: Violence, poll rigging, systemic errors As the document, which was also retweeted by Nawaz Sharif's daughter Maryam Nawaz, circulated on social media, one of the users tweeted, Another proof of rigging in Pak elections; Total votes polled 293k, Total valid votes 294k." As the counting for Pakistan election results is underway, reports of violence, and allegations of systemic irregularities and poll rigging, among others, have spread in local media. But reports now suggest that the Pakistani voters also faced several disruptions and hiccups during polling. According to a report in the Dawn, only the lucky ones were able to go in and out of the polling station within minutes. For other Pakistani voters, polling at their stations didn't begin by even 3 pm. Several voters were reportedly running from pillar to post to find their voting booths. In many cases, the entire family's data was not available at one polling station, thanks to sloppy work by Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) officials. While the father had his vote at the nearest booth, the son didn't. The ECP failed to make provision for the physically challenged and had crammed polling stations along with the usual systemic hurdles. To add to the already chaotic experience, with the cellular services plugged out, the Pakistani voters weren't even able to check their National Identity Card (NIC) numbers on their phones. Pakistani voters told the Dawn that inconveniences and hiccups are staples in any and everything that happens in their country because Pakistan and an unencumbered countrywide exercise are oxymoronic. Several voters even opted not to exercise their democratic right to vote owing to the disillusionment. General elections in Pakistan are usually synonymous with buzz, fervour and festivities. However, with the hopes from the elections in 2024 grim, the Dawn reported that these elements were conspicuously absent from the electoral landscape this year. Meanwhile, the Dawn reported that in some areas of Lahore, especially where key Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) leaders were contesting, the party facilitated voters by arranging food and transport. While in others where the party was in a dominating position, the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) also lured voters with similar incentives. The polling scenes in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan were completely different. The voter turnout remained bleak as the two provinces continued to grapple with violent attacks. As for the residents of tribal areas, this was the first election since they were mainstreamed following the merger with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. While the turnout was low, polling was largely peaceful, with a few reports of violence. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Attributing the delay in the Pakistan general election results to a "lack of communication", Pakistan's interior ministry on Friday said that the media and the public is concerned about the late processing of results. According to the Dwan, the Pakistani ministry attributed the delay to a lack of communication", which was a result of preventive measures taken to ensure foolproof security. In a post on X, the ministry said that the delay was assessed, stating that the situation was now satisfactory". The interior ministry has expressed hope that the arrival of results would continue without interruptions. Meanwhile, Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has claimed that they are leading in 150 seats amid the counting of votes. In a video shared on X From Imran khan's account of PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar in which he claims that PTI is leading at 150 votes and definitely, they will form a government in all over Pakistan whether it is Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. A video on the Imran Khan's official X handle read, InshAllah PTI will form governments in Punjab, KP and Federal. Any attempt to change the results overnight will be thwarted and not accepted at any cost by the people of Pakistan or the local and international observers and media - Chairman PTI Barrister Gohar" Saudi Coffee Company (SCC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund, has signed nine agreements to boost the coffee sector at the two-day PIF Private Sector Forum from February 6. In addition to empowering small and medium-sized enterprises in the coffee industry, the agreements will allow SCC to explore mentorship, funding and resourcing opportunities aimed to catalyse the local coffee market. Khalid Abu Theeb, CEO, SCC said: "Our presence at this forum marks a crucial step in our mission to elevate the Saudi coffee industry. With our strategic partnerships and collaborations, we reiterate our commitment to sustainability and sector growth, both locally and globally - proudly contributing to the kingdom's Vision 2030 and the diversification of the economy." MoU with Farrelly & Mitchell SCC has signed an MoU with Farrelly & Mitchell to design a comprehensive sustainability framework for the company, as part of its commitment to ensure sustainable practices from seed to cup. The signing ceremony took place between Abu Theeb and Saudi Arabia Partner Eng Najeeb Hamad AlHumaid. The signing will also further enhance sustainability in the local coffee sector according to international principles. Contract with Saudi Argo This will be a 5-year collaboration between SCC and Saudi Argo to provide advanced irrigation solutions in order to rationalise irrigation water consumption for SCCs farms, with an aim to cultivate 10 million coffee trees by 2030. The signing will involve Rakan Hariri, Sales and Distribution Director at SCC and Saudi Argo CEO Nameer AlMuhtar. Contract with Zamil Steel SCC signed a contract with Zamil Steel Company to supply almost 900 tonnes of Pre-Engineered Buildings for the SCC factory in Jazan, Saudi Arabia. This contributes to enhancing local products in a collaboration that will last for 2-5 years. The signing was attended by SCCs CEO and the President of Zamil Steel Company, Nawaf Mohammed Al Zamil. Contract with Altanfeethi company This collaboration aims to supply Altanfeethi company with local roasted beans from Jazan, as well as essential barista training for coffee serving across their halls. Purchasing contract with local contracting companies SCC signed purchasing contracts with local contracting companies in order to construct reliable infrastructure for farm lands in Jazan. This cooperation comes as part of the SCCs plan to advance the coffee sector in the region. This cooperation will include signings with Mishari Contracting Establishment, Emaar Al-Dayer Contracting EST, and Tower Chains Foundation. The signing ceremony was attended by Abu Theeb, Hassan bin Yahya Al-Maliki and Mishari bin Hassan Al-Maliki from the Mishari Contracting Establishment, Farhan bin Hussein Al-Kubaishi Al-Maliki and Muhammad bin Salman Al-Kubaishi Al-Maliki from the Emaar Al-Dayer Contracting EST, and Abdullah bin Ahmed Salem Athwani and Yahya bin Muhammad Al-Shabani Al-Maliki from Tower Chains Foundation. Purchasing contract with Elixer AlBun SCC is supplying Elixeri AlBun with green beans through its local coffee shops with transparent grading and quality. It will also train employees on roasting, tasting, and preparing green beans in order to accentuate the quality of the local product. The signing ceremony will involve Rakan Hariri, Sales and Distribution Director at SCC, and Ahmed Al-Kharji from Elixir AlBun. MoU with Al Hokair Group SCC is collaborating with AlHokair Group by providing coffee for their hotel chains across the kingdom and giving essential training for baristas through the SCC Academy, ensuring the enhancement of the full value chain of the coffee industry. The signing ceremony will involve SCC CEO and Al Hokair Group CEO Majed AlHokair. Purchasing contract with Bon Cafe The contract will extend a partnership between SCC and Bon Cafe, where SCC will provide the renowned coffeeshop with filter coffee for both their cold and hot beverages. This is part of SCCs efforts to provide reliable, local coffee beans for the local brands, in order to build up the kingdoms coffee industry. The signing ceremony included Rakan Hariri, Sales and Distribution Director at SCC and Omar Bagafaar, owner of Bon Cafe. Purchasing contract with Barnz Coffee SCC is supplying Barnz Coffee with locally produced specialty coffee promoting the high-quality local coffee production, to boost the demand for the production of the Saudi coffee farmers. The signing ceremony will involve Rakan Hariri, Sales and Distribution Director at SCC and Eng Mohamed Zain. SCCs booth at the Forum showcases the company's development initiatives and sustainability efforts, covering topics such as its production factory, Green Beans supply, the SCC Academy, the Saudi Coffee Company Model Farms, and its brand Jazean. Visitors will have the chance to experience local coffee and local coffee traditions firsthand. SCC's participation at the PIF Private Sector Forum signifies a pivotal moment in the development of the Saudi coffee industry. SCC's dedication to sustainable practices, strategic partnerships and support for the private sector positions it as a key player in advancing the kingdom's coffee sector, in alignment with Vision 2030.--TradeArabia News Service Much is known about the new commander-in-chief, Oleksandr Syrskyi, under whose leadership Ukrainian soldiers will continue to fight against the aggressor, as a military man. However, almost nothing is known about his family. At the same time, the thesis that Syrsky is a "real Russian" is being actively spread in the swamps, as his parents and brother live in Russia. ADVERTISIMENT According to official information, Oleksandr Syrskyi was born in the village of Novyky, Vladimir Oblast, Russia, which was then the Russian Soviet Republic. He studied in Moscow and then moved to Ukraine, and most of his life is connected with Ukraine and his service in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. However, according to the Russian media, the new chief of the Armed Forces is still connected to Russia not only by his place of birth, but also by the fact that his relatives continue to live in Russia. His parents, Lyudmyla and Stanislav Syrskyi, as well as his brother Oleh, live in the city of Vladimir, which is less than 200 kilometers from Moscow. According to propagandists, the 84-year-old father and 82-year-old mother are now retired. Stanislav Syrskyi is a retired colonel in the Russian army. ADVERTISIMENT Now they spend most of their time at the coumtry house. Lyudmyla Syrska sings in a vocal group of veteran teachers. Russian publics also spread information that the parents of the commander-in-chief were active on social media before the full-scale Russian invasion, posting "patriotic posts". Among the publics to which Lyudmyla Syrska subscribes is one called "I love you, Russia". Together with her husband, she participated in the actions of the "Immortal Regiment" and both are "proud of their past". According to Z-public, Syrskyi's parents hide their relationship to the Ukrainian military and do not discuss his career. They say that they "learned about their son's appointment to the post of chief of the Armed Forces from the news" and complain about the "wave of hate" after the fact of their relationship came to light. ADVERTISIMENT Neighbors of the Syrskyyi family who live in Volodymyr said that the parents never talk about their son. "It is not known whether the new head of the Armed Forces is communicating with the family now or has completely forgotten about them," Russian propagandists say. There is also information in the Russian media about the commander-in-chief's brother, Oleh Syrskyi. He lives with his parents in Vladimir and works as a security guard. In 2013, he was convicted for a fake report of a bomb threat in a shopping center in Vladimir. According to the Russian media, Oleh Syrskyi got drunk, quarreled with a security guard at a shopping center, and reported a "bomb" in revenge. ADVERTISIMENT Now he works as a security guard himself and confesses his love for Russia on social media. Following Russian publics, Ukrainians also began to write on social media about the Russian relatives of the chief commander and call him almost an enemy. But if this is the case, it would mean that during the entire time of the full-scale war, the Army of the Ukrainian Armed Forces was commanded by the enemy, who was subordinate to the "iron general" Valerii Zaluzhnyi. ADVERTISIMENT As reported by OBOZ.UA: on February 8, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Valerii Zaluzhnyi. The head of state appointed Syrskyi in his place, and he also announced large-scale changes in leadership positions in the army. On February 9, the "iron general" Zaluzhnyi was awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine. And his successor as commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces made his first statement after his appointment. On February 8, Queen Camilla gave an update on King Charles health after his cancer diagnosis. She travelled from Sandringham House to Salisbury Cathedral to attend a charity concert. King Charles "is doing extremely well under the circumstances", Queen Camilla has said. "He is very touched by all of the letters and messages the public have been sending from everywhere. That's very cheering," the BBC quoted her as saying. Prince William, during his return to his Royal duties earlier on February 7, expressed gratitude for the public's warm wishes towards his family. Id like to take this opportunity to say thank you for the kind messages of support for Catherine and for my father, especially in recent days," the Associated Press quoted William as saying. It means a great deal to us all." It was Williams first public engagement since the cancer diagnosis of his father, King Charles. It was a charity dinner for London's Air Ambulance Its fair to say the past few weeks have had a rather medical focus, so I thought Id come to an air ambulance function to get away from it all," the Prince of Wales said in good humour. Harrys London visit Prince Harry was quick to travel to London after he had become aware of his fathers cancer diagnosis. The Duke of Sussex, as well his wife Meghan Markle, quit Royal responsibilities in January 2020. The relationship between the Sussexes and the Royal Family has been tense ever since. However, his visit from California to see King Charles ignited hopes for a reconciliation. Prince Harry spent around 26 hours in the UK before returning to Los Angeles. During the visit, Harry preferred booking a hotel room to staying in a Royal palace. It has been reported that he is open to a reunion with Prince William. But, his brother did not make any plans to meet him during the visit. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Russian President Vladimir Putin in an interview on Thursday said that Russia is committed to defending its interests to the end" but clarified that it has no intention of extending its conflict in Ukraine to encompass other nations like Poland and Latvia. As reported by Reuters, in his initial interview with an American journalist since the period before Russia invaded Ukraine nearly two years ago, Putin remarked that Western leaders had recognized the impossibility of inflicting a strategic defeat on Russia and were now pondering their next steps. We are ready for this dialogue," Putin said. Putin expressed his belief that it was feasible to negotiate an agreement for the release of US journalist Evan Gershkovich from the Wall Street Journal. Gershkovich has been held in Russia for close to a year, awaiting trial on spying charges. These remarks were made during a lengthy interview lasting over two hours with conservative talk-show host Tucker Carlson, conducted in Moscow on Tuesday. Also Read: Russia Presidential Election: Vladimir Putin critic Boris Nadezhdin barred from contesting election Asked if he could imagine a scenario in which he would send Russian troops to Poland, a NATO member, Putin replied: Only in one case, if Poland attacks Russia. Why? Because we have no interest in Poland, Latvia or anywhere else. Why would we do that? We simply don't have any interest." Putin's remarks were delivered in Russian and later dubbed into English for the interview. He commenced by providing extensive commentary on Russia's relationships with Ukraine, Poland, and other nations. During a significant portion of the interview, Putin expressed frustration, stating that Ukraine had been close to reaching an agreement to cease hostilities during talks in Istanbul in April 2022. However, according to Putin, Ukraine withdrew from the negotiations once Russian troops pulled back from positions near Kyiv. Also Read: 'President Joe Biden is not running the United States... just a facade', claims Russian President Vladimir Putin Well now let them think how to reverse the situation," he said. We're not against it. It would be funny if it were not so sad that. This endless mobilization in Ukraine, the hysteria, the domestic problems, sooner or later it will result in an agreement." The Russian president said the US had pressing domestic issues to worry about. Wouldn't it be better to negotiate with Russia? Make an agreement. Already understanding the situation that is developing today, realizing that Russia will fight for its interests to the end," Putin said. Washington, having provided Ukraine with over $110 billion in aid since Russia's invasion in February 2022, has indicated its reluctance to engage in discussions on Putin's terms. Putin's last formal interview with a US media outlet occurred in October 2021, conducted by CNBC's Hadley Gamble. Also Read: Russophobia is promoted as state policy in European countries, says Vladimir Putin The interview with Carlson coincided with ongoing debates among US lawmakers regarding additional funding for Ukraine's war efforts. It also aired on the same day that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy replaced the army chief with his ground forces commander, amidst other developments. During his time as president and following his defeat by Biden, Trump has frequently lauded Putin and refrained from condemning the invasion of Ukraine. He even claimed that if reelected, he could resolve the conflict in Ukraine within 24 hours," although he did not provide specifics on how he would achieve this. In contrast, Biden has labelled Putin as a war criminal" and has prioritized support for Ukraine's democratically elected, pro-Western government as one of the central objectives of his presidency. (With inputs from Reuters) Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Donald Trump appeared to be headed for a big legal victory at the U.S. Supreme Court as the justices on Thursday signalled their readiness to reject a judicial decision kicking the former president off the ballot in Colorado for taking part in an insurrection during the 2021 Capitol attack. The nine justices heard about two hours of arguments in Trump's appeal of a Dec. 19 ruling by Colorado's top court to disqualify him from the state's Republican March 5 primary ballot under the U.S. Constitution's 14th Amendment after finding that he participated in an insurrection. The ruling in the case promises major implications for the Nov. 5 election. Trump, who did not attend the arguments, is the overwhelming frontrunner for the Republican nomination to challenge Democratic President Joe Biden. Section 3 of the 14th Amendment bars from holding public office any "officer of the United States" who took an oath "to support the Constitution of the United States" and then "engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same, or given aid or comfort to the enemies thereof." Also Read: Donald Trump not immune from prosecution in 2020 Capitol attack case: US appeals court Justices - conservatives and liberals alike - expressed concern during the argument about states taking sweeping actions that could impact a presidential election nationwide. They pondered how states can properly enforce the Section 3 disqualification language against candidates, with several wondering whether Congress must first pass legislation do enable that. The Supreme Court's 6-3 conservative majority includes three justices appointed by Trump. Conservative Chief Justice John Roberts told Jason Murray, the lawyer representing four Republican voters and two unaffiliated voters who sued to keep Trump off the Colorado ballot, that if the judicial decision were to be upheld, other states would proceed with disqualification proceedings of their own against either Democratic or Republican candidates. "It'll come down to just a handful of states that are going to decide the presidential election. That's a pretty daunting consequence," Roberts said. Anti-Trump forces have sought to disqualify him in more than two dozen other states - a mostly unsuccessful effort - over his actions relating to the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack. But Maine also has barred Trump from its ballot, a decision on hold pending the Supreme Court's Colorado ruling. Also Read: If Donald Trump was in power: Israeli minister claims Joe Biden not fully supporting war on Hamas in Gaza "I think that the question that you have to confront is why a single state should decide who gets to be president of the United States," liberal Justice Elena Kagan told Murray. "This question of whether a former president is disqualified for insurrection to be president again ... it sounds awfully national to me." Conservative Justice Brett Kavanaugh, a Trump appointee, focused on the impact to democracy if states under Section 3 can block candidates from their ballots under Section 3. "Think about the right of the people to elect candidates of their choice, of letting the people decide, because your position has the effect of disenfranchising voters to a significant degree," Kavanaugh told Murray. Murray offered a blunt reply: "The reason we're here is that President Trump tried to disenfranchise 80 million Americans who voted against him, and the Constitution doesn't require that he be given another chance." Also Read:US Election 2024: Why Taylor Swift is making headlines amid Donald Trump vs Joe Biden battle | 5 reasons Trump supporters attacked police and swarmed the Capitol in a bid to prevent Congress from certifying Biden's 2020 election victory. Trump gave an incendiary speech to supporters beforehand, telling them to go to the Capitol and "fight like hell." He then for hours rebuffed requests that he urge the mob to stop. The 14th Amendment was ratified following the American Civil War of 1861-1865 in which seceding Southern states that allowed the practice of slavery rebelled against the U.S. government. "The framers of Section 3 knew from painful experience that those who had violently broken their oaths to the Constitution," Murray said, referring to the officials of the seceding states, "couldn't be trusted to hold power again because they could dismantle our constitutional democracy from within." Roberts asked Jonathan Mitchell, Trump's lawyer, whether a state's top elections official could disqualify a candidate who comes forward and says he took the oath mentioned in the provision and engaged in an insurrection. "If the candidate is an admitted insurrectionist, Section 3 still allows the candidate to run for office and even win election to office - and then see whether Congress lifts that disability after the election," Mitchell said. 'I'm a believer' Following the arguments, Trump in remarks in Florida said he listened to the proceedings and "thought our arguments were very, very strong." Trump, who sought to portray the case as part of a broader effort by Democrats to keep him off the ballot, indicated he felt disqualification was unlikely. "I'm a believer in our country and I'm a believer of the Supreme Court," Trump said. The Supreme Court last played such a central role in a presidential contest in 2000, when its landmark Bush v. Gore decision handed Republican George W. Bush the presidency over Democrat Al Gore. Also Read: Donald Trump civil fraud case: Daughter Ivanka must take the witness stand, rules judge The justices debated the applicability of an 1869 decision authored by then-Chief Justice Salmon Chase - albeit while he presided on a lower court - in determining how a Section 3 disqualification may now be enforced. Kavanaugh suggested to Mitchell that Chase's decision, which found that congressional legislation was necessary to enforce Section 3, is "highly probative" of Section 3's meaning. The justices spent little time on Jan. 6 or Trump's role in those events, though liberal Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson did press Mitchell on whether the attack was an insurrection. "Your point is that a chaotic effort to overthrow the government is not an insurrection?" Jackson asked. "This was a riot. It was not an insurrection," Mitchell told Jackson. The events were shameful, criminal, violent, all of those things, but did not qualify as an insurrection as that term is used in Section 3." Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Satya Nadellas commitment to skilling up two million Indians in tier-2 and tier -3 towns to work with artificial intelligence technologies is one of many signs that India could one day become a hub for AI. Nadella says AI could contribute at least 10% of Indias GDP by the time the countrys economy hits $5 trillion (it is around $3.8 trillion now). The Microsoft CEOs assessment of the Indian AI opportunity concurs with that of Nasscom, which estimated in a paper published in August 2020 that Indias GDP would hit $5 trillion by 2025 and that AI could contribute $450-500 billion of this. The timelines have changed, since it's clear Indias GDP will not touch $5 trillion by 2025, but the projection of a 10% contribution to GDP is the same as Nadellas. Goldman Sach released a paper in April 2023 in which it assessed the impact of AI on the global economy. This paper, too, made broadly similar projections. It estimated that about 11-12% of work in India could be automated using AI, which aligns with the 10% of GDP projections. But it said annual productivity growth in India due to AI was expected to be only 0.7%, and the 11-12% reduction in jobs could have negative effects in the short term. However, the entry of Microsoft and other global giants that are at the cutting edge of AI changes those assessments, so theres likely an upside beyond 10% of GDP. Any new technology causes disruption, and AI promises tectonic shifts. But new technologies also create more employment opportunities than the ones they supersede, and skilling up workers should allow for quick exploitation of this. India also has advantages that could accelerate AI adoption and push it well beyond these projections of penetration and productivity. One big advantage is scale. India has 800 million mobile broadband users, and initiatives such as Bharatnet (which aims to link some 650,000 villages with optic fibre) and the advent of satellite broadband will ensure even remote geographies are connected to fast networks. India has also seen the fastest 5G rollout in the world over the past 15 months. Rapid 5G adoption there are already 130 million 5G users and the multiple use-cases this unlocks will make AI far more useful. India is also the largest data consumer in the world on aggregate and per-capita. The more data there is, the more quickly AI improves and the better it works. Second, India has world-beating digital public infrastructure such as UPI. A host of services from the government to the banking and financial sectors are now available online. This infrastructure has allowed India to leapfrog decades on making access to banking ubiquitous. It has also enabled the direct transfer of benefits by the government (free rice and wheat, gas cylinder subsidies and so on) to low-income groups without too much leakage. Again, this digital infrastructure is amenable to AI and provides plenty of data. A third edge that India enjoys is diversity. It has more languages than the EU, each spoken by larger populations than those of its 25-odd countries. Couple this with cheap data and smartphones and you have a recipe for success. Its easy to set up an operation in which people take pictures of common objects (trees, cars, billboards) and voice-label them in their mother tongues. Indeed, organisations such as Karya are already implementing such programmes. This could conceivably allow for multiple vernacular ChatGPTs with seamless translation. India also has a robust stock market and well-developed startup ecosystem, which makes it relatively easy to raise money for new ideas. It also has a large population of techies. No wonder Microsoft, Google (it has an MoU with Maharashtra state and Gemini, its family of multimodal large language models, is available in India), Nvidia (it has partnerships with many companies including Tata and Reliance), and others are looking to embed themselves in the Indian AI ecosystem. The final ingredient for driving AI adoption is policy. Policymakers appear to have a sense of what needs to be done to push this technology. Government working groups recommend a three-tier computing structure with 24,500 graphics processing units (GPUs). This would require about a 15-fold increase in computing capacity. The government will also have to review developments as they arise and regulate the sector appropriately to ensure that AI is not misused. Put all of this together, and the whole should be greater than the sum of the parts. The impact of AI on the Indian economy is thus very likely to exceed expectations on GDP contribution and productivity gains. From a legal perspective, the biggest takeaway from the investigation of President Bidens handling of sensitive government documents was from the first sentence of the 345-page report: No criminal charges were warranted. But after conducting 173 interviews with 147 witnessesincluding five hours with the president over two daysinvestigators came away with many other nuggets about Biden and how he operates, including unflattering details already being seized upon by Republicans. Heres what to know: Impact of age One of the most politically damaging sentences in special counsel Robert Hurs report refers to Bidens age and mental faculties. At trial, Mr. Biden would likely present himself to a jury, as he did during our interview of him, as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory," Hur wrote in explaining one reason he wasnt recommending charges. There are other references to Bidens memory that suggest a notable decline. When he was interviewed by investigators in October 2023, Biden couldnt remember the dates when he was vice president, including exactly when his term ended, according to the report. It said Biden also struggled to remember details about Afghanistan policy, including properly recalling whether a key figure agreed or disagreed with his own position. Most strikingly, Biden did not remember, even within several years, when his son Beau died." Biden angrily pushed back on that detail in a hastily called press conference Thursday night. How in the hell dare he raise that?" Biden said of the special counsel. Frankly, when I was asked the question, I thought to myself, it wasnt any of their damn business." At times, Hurs jabs seem gratuitous. He repeatedly referenced what he characterized as Bidens distinctive misspelling of Afganastan" in handwritten notes dating back to the 1980s. Biden was warned many times about classified documents Biden blamed his staff for doing a sloppy job packing his vice presidents office, but the report shows that over the years, he was warned many times about his handling of classified materials. During his time as vice president, staff attempted to retrieve Bidens classified briefing books every day but could not always do so," because he would hold on to some of the material, removing memos from a classified binder, the report said. In 2010, a top-secret document went missing from Bidens material, prompting one of his longtime lawyers and advisers to prepare a memo that included fairly obvious advice. Tips included that classified materials should never be reviewed in public places such as on a train" and needed to be kept in secure locations. What was found Biden was dismissive when describing what might be found among the classified documents that turned up in his home and office, suggesting during a PBS interview last year that they were stray papers. But note cards found at his Delaware home were classified up to the top-secret level, according to the report. Topics of the documents included notes summarizing a range of issues relating to a foreign terrorist organization, including specific activities of the U.S. military." A folder marked EYES ONLY" was found at the Penn Biden Center. On one envelope, Biden had written: IRAN 1/30/15," which was around the time the U.S. was negotiating a deal with Iran to halt its nuclear program. The report contains a 22-page appendix that includes descriptions of each classified document found. They include materials on U.S. engagement with China, a memo about world leaders attending a U.N. General Assembly meeting in New York, intelligence assessments from the Central Intelligence Agency and a transcript of a conversation between Biden and the Ukrainian politician Arseniy Yatsenyuk. Presidents are just like us For anyone who has a garage full of neglected boxes, the report does offer some relatable and humanizing details about the president. Classified documents were found in a garage among items that included a collapsed dog crate, a dog bed, a Zappos box, an empty bucket, a broken lamp wrapped with duct tape, potting soil and synthetic firewood, according to the report. Biden also mixed urgent work notes with the mundane. He kept writings such as real-time minutes of National Security Council meetings" in black notebooks and memorialized his own impressions, reflections, opinions and commentary" about people he met. Mixed in with these high-minded observations were everyday to-do lists. Some of this may be classified Biden appeared to be aware that he retained classified material even when he was out of office, the report indicates. In April 2017, months after Biden left the vice presidency, he met with his ghostwriter Mark Zwonitzer, who recorded his struggle to read his own handwriting. Do you have any idea what the hell Im saying there," Biden said, showing his handwriting to Zwonitzer. Then Biden gave him a warning: Some of this may be classified, so be careful," he said to the writer, who didnt have security clearance, according to the report. Biden at times avoided sharing what he thought could be classified material with Zwonitzer and sometimes skipped over notebook passages to avoid reading classified information" to his ghostwriter. A historic figure First elected to the Senate at age 29, Biden has long seen himself as a historic figure," Hur wrote, and he collected papers and artifacts from his career. Biden then drew from those papers to write two memoirs, published in 2007 and 2017, to prove his mettle and burnish his place in history. As Hur put it, Biden used the materials to document his legacy, and to cite as evidence that he was a man of presidential timber." Hur homed in on records Biden kept related to his ultimately unsuccessful efforts, as vice president, to dissuade President Barack Obama from sending additional troops to Afghanistan. Biden came under sharp criticism within and outside the Obama administration for his position, but he always believed history would prove him right," Hur wrote. So he kept materials documenting his opposition, including a classified handwritten memo he sent Obama over the Thanksgiving holiday in 2009, along with other records. The records were later found in his Delaware garage and home office in December 2022 and January 2023, Hur wrote. I guess I wanted to hang onto it for posteritys sake," Biden told investigators when asked why he kept a memo he wrote to Obama disagreeing with the surge of troops. Echoes of 2016 The reports release eerily echoes controversies from the Justice Departments recent past. During the 2016 presidential campaign, FBI Director James Comey harshly criticized the Democratic candidate, Hillary Clinton, for allegedly endangering national security by using a private email server for government business while she was secretary of state, even though investigators didnt think they could bring a criminal case. The inspector general later rebuked Comey for ignoring Justice Department policy in making the remarks, and Clintons allies blamed him for putting Trump over the top in the 2016 contest. Biden nominated Merrick Garland to the post of attorney general to underscore the departments independence and restabilize it. On Thursday, Bidens allies faulted the report for what they viewed as repeating Comeys mistakes, in making public detailed allegations in a case in which prosecutors arent pursuing criminal charges. Aruna Viswanatha contributed to this article. Write to Annie Linskey at annie.linskey@wsj.com and C. Ryan Barber at ryan.barber@wsj.com Pakistans general election has taken an unexpected twist. Early trends indicate that Imran Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) might have stolen a march on its political rivals in the polls, even with its leader, the flamboyant former World Cup-winning cricket captain, behind bars on various corruption charges. A PTI win would also present a setback to the countrys powerful military. Mint explains the potential implications of a PTI win. What exactly is happening? On Thursday, 130 million Pakistani voters went to the polls to elect a new national government. The election had three major players. The first was the Pakistan Muslim League (N), led by former prime minister Nawaz Sharif. A three-time prime minister, Sharif was widely expected to win a managed" election with the support of Pakistans powerful military. However, the jailed former prime minister Imran Khan remained the most popular politician in the country. Despite numerous impediments, early trends on Friday indicated that Khans PTI party was set to dominate its political rivals at the polls. Why does this matter? For decades, Pakistans military has dominated the countrys politics directly or indirectly. It is widely understood that the military remains the most powerful actor in the country, wielding the ability to make and unmake governments. Even Khan, analysts say, rode to power in 2018 as the militarys candidate of choice. However, this relationship later soured. During the latter part of Khans tenure as prime minister (2018-2022) he clashed with the military over top military appointments and control over foreign policy. When he was removed from office on corruption charges in 2022, Khan blamed the military for his ouster. After Khans supporters attacked military establishments in 2023, his PTI was targeted by the armed forces. Khan and his top aides were jailed while his party splintered. The military also threw its weight behind Sharif, who returned to Pakistan in October after spending four years in the UK. Sharif had also been imprisoned earlier over corruption charges. He moved to London in November 2019 breaking bail, which he had secured on medical grounds. What happens now? It is unclear if the early trends will hold up. Official results from the Election Commission of Pakistan have been slow. This has led to allegations of bias and charges of vote counts being changed, enhancing fears of an unfair election. It is also unclear if the military will accept the result, which has clearly gone against its desired candidate. Analysts fear this could result in a showdown between the military and Pakistans electorate, which could spark considerable instability in the country. Does this have implications for India? Observers had argued that if Sharif returned to power, it would pave the way to some incremental improvements in India-Pakistan relations, given his relative openness to working with India. Khans return to power might be a mixed picture for New Delhi. His government had downgraded diplomatic ties with India after the 2019 abrogation of Article 370 that had granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir. However, Khan has also spoken publicly of plans to reach a peace deal with India during his time in office. That apart, a showdown between Pakistans military and the countrys electorate could have repercussions for India, which has previously suffered the consequences of mass instability in the neighbouring country. Leaders across political parties have hailed the decision to award Bharat Ratna to PV Narasimha Rao, Chaudhary Charan Singh and M S Swaminathan. BJP leaders insisted that the honour was long overdue and hailed the Narendra Modi government for rising above party politics". The development also came mere days after the administration conferred the country's highest civilian honour for LK Advani and Karpoori Thakur taking the recipient count to 53. PV Narasimha Rao, Chaudhary Charan Singh and Dr. MS Swaminathan were, are and will always be the 'Bharat ke Ratna'. Their contribution was unprecedented, which every Indian respects," said Congress spokesperson Jairam Ramesh. I welcome them... why not," added Sonia Gandhi. Congress leader Rajeev Shukla, however, said the BJP-led Centre is honouring former prime minister P V Narasimha Rao, while it has also brought a "white paper" on the economy during the government of Manmohan Singh, who was the finance minister under Rao. Congratulations to all the farmer leaders and parties who had demanded from time to time that the former Prime Minister and farmer leader of the country who spent his entire life bringing poor farmers on the path to prosperity should be given Bharat Ratna. The Samajwadi Party also demanded that Chaudhary Charan Singh should be given Bharat Ratna. Congratulations to all other leaders who will be given the Bharat Ratna," said Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav. They are gems of India who have been given Bharat Ratna. Not just the three names announced today, Karpuri Thakur and L K Advani, whose names were announced some days ago, all of them are gems," said Janata Dal (United) MP Rajeev Ranjan Singh. Members of the BJP also hailed the move dubbing the first time a government had taken cognisance of this" and moved to rise above party politics. In a recent development, the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has issued a high-severity warning concerning vulnerabilities detected in Google Chrome OS. The security alert, designated as CIVN-2024-0031 and released on February 8, 2024, emphasizes the critical nature of the risks associated with versions of Google Chrome OS preceding 114.0.5735.350 on the LTS channel. CERT-In has pinpointed vulnerabilities in Google Chrome OS that could potentially be exploited by remote attackers, allowing them to execute arbitrary code, attain elevated privileges, circumvent security restrictions, or induce denial of service conditions on impacted systems. The root causes of these vulnerabilities lie in a "use after free" flaw within the Side Panel Search feature and inadequate data validation in extensions. These issues pose a significant threat to system integrity, making it imperative for users to address them promptly. The security agency highlights that remote attackers can exploit these vulnerabilities by luring users to visit specially crafted web pages, activating the identified vulnerabilities upon access. To address these concerns, CERT-In strongly advises users to update their Google Chrome OS to version 114.0.5735.350 or later, as these updates include crucial patches addressing the identified vulnerabilities. CERT-In's Recommended Actions: Users are urged to exercise caution while browsing the internet, especially when encountering unfamiliar or suspicious websites. Avoid interacting with links from untrusted sources or unsolicited emails and messages. Implement security best practices, including the use of reputable antivirus software, regular updates of software and applications, and enabling firewalls for enhanced defense mechanisms against potential threats. In conjunction with the warning, CERT-In has initiated a "Cyber Swachhta Fortnight" from February 1 to 15, 2024, aimed at securing cyberspace from botnets, which pose a significant threat to end-user systems. As part of this campaign, CERT-In, in collaboration with eScan, has introduced the 'Cyber Swachhta Kendra' (CSK), providing the eScan Botnet Scanning & Cleaning Toolkit for laptops, desktops, and smartphones. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! The Tucker Carlson interview with Vladimir Putin underscores the significance of X, formerly known as Twitter, and the broader principles of free speech championed by Elon Musk. In a time of heightened geopolitical tensions and media scrutiny, the ability to engage in open dialogue and the exchange of ideas becomes paramount. Ep. 73 The Vladimir Putin Interview pic.twitter.com/67YuZRkfLL Tucker Carlson (@TuckerCarlson) February 8, 2024 You do not have to believe one word Putin said, but the right for Americans to hear it is fundamental to the values of the USA. The interview, which garnered significant attention and controversy, exemplifies the power of independent media outlets and digital platforms in facilitating unfiltered communication between world leaders and the public. By providing a platform for diverse perspectives and uncensored discourse, X plays a crucial role in promoting transparency and accountability in global affairs. Elon Musks involvement in the discussion further highlights the intersection of technology, media, and free speech. As a vocal advocate for internet freedom and decentralization, Musks support for platforms like X reinforces the importance of preserving avenues for open expression and challenging mainstream narratives. Moreover, the Tucker Carlson interview serves as a reminder of the inherent value of free speech in democratic societies. In an era marked by increasing censorship and political polarization, the protection of free speech rights is essential to fostering informed debate, fostering democratic participation, and safeguarding individual liberties. Ultimately, the exchange between Tucker Carlson and Vladimir Putin underscores the vital role of platforms like X and advocates like Elon Musk in promoting free speech and facilitating meaningful dialogue on issues of global significance. As debates around media censorship and freedom of expression continue to evolve, it is imperative to uphold these fundamental principles as cornerstones of democratic governance. The intersection of free speech, government accountability, and media censorship has become increasingly contentious in recent years, particularly in the context of the Biden and Obama administrations. Revelations from sources like WikiLeaks and internal documents from platforms like Twitter have shed light on the abuse of censorship to push propaganda and shape public discourse, raising concerns about the erosion of free speech rights in America. The Obama and Biden administrations have faced criticism for their handling of whistleblowers and journalists who expose government misconduct. WikiLeaks, for example, made headlines with its release of classified documents exposing military and diplomatic secrets, prompting fierce condemnation and legal action from the government. The aggressive pursuit of whistleblowers like Chelsea Manning and Edward Snowden sent a chilling message to those who sought to hold the government accountable for its actions. In addition to targeting whistleblowers, the Obama and Biden administrations have been accused of using censorship to control the narrative and suppress dissenting voices. Internal documents from platforms like Twitter have revealed coordinated efforts to silence political opponents and manipulate public opinion. These revelations have raised serious questions about the integrity of the democratic process and the role of social media in shaping public discourse. The abuse of censorship for political gain is a dangerous precedent that threatens the foundation of free speech in America. By weaponizing platforms like Twitter to push propaganda and suppress dissent, the government undermines the principles of transparency and accountability that are essential to a functioning democracy. The silencing of whistleblowers and journalists not only stifles public debate but also erodes trust in government institutions and the media. As advocates for free speech continue to push back against censorship and government overreach, the fight to protect First Amendment rights remains ongoing. The lessons of WikiLeaks and the Twitter files serve as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance in defending free speech and holding those in power accountable for their actions. In an era of increasing censorship and political polarization, the preservation of free speech rights is more critical than ever to safeguarding democracy and upholding the principles of liberty and justice for all. As the political landscape in the United States becomes increasingly polarized, the controversy surrounding the Hunter Biden laptop has taken center stage, with Democrats facing accusations of deception and dishonesty. The emergence of Hunter Bidens laptop and the subsequent handling of its contents have ignited a firestorm of debate, revealing the complexities of modern politics and the power struggles between opposing factions. The Hunter Biden laptop saga began in October 2020 when the New York Post published a bombshell report alleging that emails found on a laptop belonging to Hunter Biden implicated his father, Joe Biden, in corrupt business dealings with foreign entities. The emails purportedly raised questions about the extent of Joe Bidens involvement in his sons business affairs and suggested potential conflicts of interest during his time as Vice President. In response to the explosive allegations, Democrats swiftly moved to discredit the story, dismissing it as Russian disinformation and baseless conspiracy theories. Prominent Democrats, including Joe Biden himself, labeled the laptop story as a smear campaign orchestrated by political opponents to undermine his presidential bid. The narrative pushed by Democrats sought to delegitimize the laptops contents and deflect attention away from its potentially damaging implications. However, as more information emerged and corroborating evidence came to light, the credibility of the laptop story began to grow. Forensic analysis of the laptops hard drive confirmed the authenticity of the emails, casting doubt on the Democrats narrative of Russian disinformation. Despite attempts to downplay its significance, the Hunter Biden laptop continued to haunt the Biden administration, fueling speculation about ethical lapses and potential wrongdoing. The Democrats handling of the Hunter Biden laptop controversy has raised serious questions about their commitment to transparency and accountability. By dismissing legitimate concerns and resorting to accusations of conspiracy, Democrats have undermined public trust in the political process and fueled perceptions of elitism and corruption within the establishment. Moreover, the Democrats refusal to acknowledge the implications of the laptops contents has fueled speculation about their motives and intentions. Critics argue that the Democrats willingness to downplay the story reflects a broader pattern of dishonesty and manipulation aimed at protecting their political interests at all costs. As the debate over the Hunter Biden laptop continues to unfold, it serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing American democracy in an era of hyperpartisanship and media polarization. The controversy highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in government and underscores the importance of holding elected officials accountable for their actions. Only through open dialogue and honest engagement can the United States hope to overcome its deep political divisions and restore faith in its democratic institutions. Shayne Heffernan Beware of over-the-counter (OTC) Bitcoin deals in Hong Kong they are the hallmark of scammers, as they pose significant risks to investors. While OTC transactions offer the flexibility of trading large volumes of Bitcoin outside of traditional exchanges, they also come with potential pitfalls that investors should be aware of. One of the main risks associated with OTC Bitcoin deals in Hong Kong is the lack of regulatory oversight. Unlike transactions conducted through licensed exchanges, OTC deals may not be subject to the same level of scrutiny by regulatory authorities. This means that investors may be more vulnerable to fraud, market manipulation, and other illicit activities. Another risk is the potential for price manipulation. In OTC markets, prices are often negotiated directly between buyers and sellers, rather than being determined by supply and demand dynamics on exchanges. This can make it easier for large players to manipulate prices to their advantage, leading to unfair outcomes for smaller investors. Additionally, OTC Bitcoin deals may involve counterparty risk, where one party fails to fulfill their obligations under the agreement. This could result in financial losses for investors, particularly if they have already transferred funds or Bitcoin as part of the deal. To mitigate these risks, investors should exercise caution when engaging in OTC Bitcoin deals in Hong Kong. It is essential to conduct thorough due diligence on counterparties, verify their credentials, and seek legal advice if necessary. Additionally, investors should only transact with reputable and trustworthy brokers or trading platforms that adhere to regulatory standards and best practices. Furthermore, investors should be wary of deals that seem too good to be true or involve high-pressure sales tactics. It is essential to trust your instincts and avoid rushing into transactions without fully understanding the terms and risks involved. Overall, while OTC Bitcoin deals can offer opportunities for investors, they also carry significant risks that should not be overlooked. By exercising caution and conducting proper due diligence, investors can help protect themselves from potential pitfalls in the OTC market. The proliferation of over-the-counter (OTC) Bitcoin scams has become a concerning issue, particularly in financial hubs like Hong Kong, where unsuspecting investors are being targeted face-to-face. Despite the growing awareness of cryptocurrency scams, fraudsters continue to exploit loopholes and vulnerabilities in the system to deceive investors and make off with their funds. In recent months, there have been reports of individuals posing as legitimate Bitcoin brokers or traders, offering lucrative investment opportunities with promises of high returns. These scammers often approach potential victims in person, leveraging persuasive tactics and false promises to lure them into fraudulent schemes. One common tactic used by OTC Bitcoin scammers is to offer to buy or sell Bitcoin at rates that seem too good to be true. They may claim to have insider information or special access to Bitcoin markets, enticing investors with the prospect of quick profits. However, once the victim transfers their funds or Bitcoin to the scammer, they soon realize that they have been duped, and their money is gone. Another prevalent scam involves fake Bitcoin investment platforms or trading groups, where fraudsters pose as experienced traders or financial experts. They may present elaborate investment strategies or trading signals, convincing investors to deposit their funds into fraudulent accounts. However, instead of generating profits as promised, the scammers simply disappear with the investors money, leaving behind a trail of financial ruin. The rise of OTC Bitcoin scams in Hong Kong underscores the importance of exercising caution and due diligence when engaging in cryptocurrency transactions, especially in face-to-face encounters. Investors should be wary of unsolicited offers, conduct thorough research before making any investments, and verify the credentials of individuals or platforms claiming to offer Bitcoin-related services. To protect themselves from falling victim to OTC Bitcoin scams, investors should: Verify the identity and legitimacy of individuals or platforms offering Bitcoin-related services. Conduct background checks and research reviews or feedback from other investors. Never send funds or Bitcoin to anyone without verifying their credentials and authenticity. Be skeptical of promises of guaranteed returns or high-profit opportunities, as these are often signs of a scam. Consider using reputable cryptocurrency exchanges or trading platforms that offer enhanced security measures and investor protections. By staying vigilant and informed, investors can help safeguard themselves against OTC Bitcoin scams and protect their hard-earned money from falling into the hands of fraudsters. Additionally, authorities and regulatory bodies should continue to crack down on fraudulent activities and hold perpetrators accountable to maintain the integrity of the cryptocurrency market. In Hong Kong, over-the-counter (OTC) crypto brokers are required to be licensed by the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC). This regulatory requirement aims to ensure investor protection, maintain market integrity, and mitigate financial risks associated with cryptocurrency transactions. The licensing process for OTC crypto brokers involves rigorous scrutiny by the SFC, which assesses various aspects of their business operations, compliance framework, and risk management practices. Brokers must demonstrate their ability to comply with regulatory standards, including customer due diligence, anti-money laundering (AML) measures, and cybersecurity protocols. Licensed OTC crypto brokers are subject to ongoing supervision and oversight by the SFC to ensure continued compliance with regulatory requirements. This includes regular audits, inspections, and reporting obligations to the regulator. Any breaches of regulatory standards or misconduct can result in disciplinary action, such as fines, license suspension, or revocation. By requiring licensing for OTC crypto brokers, Hong Kongs regulatory authorities seek to promote market transparency, protect investors interests, and safeguard the reputation of the financial industry. Investors are encouraged to verify the licensing status of OTC crypto brokers before engaging in transactions and to report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities. Overall, the licensing requirement underscores the importance of regulatory compliance and risk management in the rapidly evolving cryptocurrency market, contributing to a safer and more resilient ecosystem for crypto trading in Hong Kong. Shayne Heffernan President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed his expectations of the new Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrskyi. He emphasized the need to develop a detailed action plan for the Armed Forces for 2024. ADVERTISIMENT This was reported by the Office of the President on Telegram. The Head of State emphasized that he expects the plan to be ready in the near future. According to the President of Ukraine, he wants to see the following changes in the plan of the new Chief of Staff, Oleksandr Syrskyi: - A realistic action plan for the Armed Forces of Ukraine for 2024, including details and taking into account the real situation on the battlefield, both current and future. - Western weapons should be in every combat brigade, especially on the front line. There should be a fair redistribution of such weapons in favor of the front line. - Logistical problems must be resolved. Avdiivka should not wait for the generals to find out why their drones are stuck in their warehouses. - A general must know the front. Every general. If he does not know the front, he is not serving Ukraine. ADVERTISIMENT - The number of staff should be reviewed. - The army must rebuild the rotation system. It must be effective. The experience of certain combat brigades of the Armed Forces and border guard units, where such a system exists, can be used as a basis. - Only trained soldiers should on the front line. Training of soldiers is a priority, and it must become better. - Unmanned Systems Forces. The first commander must be appointed. This is a new kind of force in the Armed Forces. Zelenskyy also emphasized that Chief Syrskyi would present the new team in the coming days. According to the President, 2024 can be successful for Ukraine only if there are effective changes in the basis of our defense, which is the Armed Forces of Ukraine. "We are proud of our army. The Ukrainian army must become a winning army. To do this, we must do everything in our power," the President summarized the reboot of the Armed Forces Command, once again thanking everyone who believes in Ukraine, as well as fights and works for our country. ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information is available on our Telegram OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Thailand, known for its bustling crypto scene, is facing regulatory heat that has reached one of its prominent players, Zipmex Thailand. Former CEO Akalarp Yimwilai finds himself at the center of controversy, facing fraud charges brought forth by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The allegations against Yimwilai stem from his tenure as Zipmex CEO, during which he purportedly provided Zipmex customers with misleading information regarding their digital assets held in Z Wallets. The SEC claims that Yimwilai falsely assured users that their funds remained within Zipmex, despite evidence suggesting otherwiseindicating that the funds were transferred to overseas crypto wallets. This alleged deception is viewed by the SEC as a breach of customer trust and a violation of agreed-upon terms. As a result of the complaint filed by the SEC, Yimwilai could potentially face legal repercussions through Thailands Office of the Provincial Crime Suppression Division. Additionally, the investigation has cast a shadow over Zipmex Thailand itself, as inconsistencies in customer asset reports have come to light. Yimwilai, who served as CEO of Zipmex Thailand from 2018 to 2023, previously held roles as a legal counsel and political correspondent for the Thai government. This latest setback adds to an already tumultuous period for Zipmex Thailand. In 2023, financial regulators scrutinized the companys acquisition by V Ventures, and more recently, the SEC ordered a temporary suspension of its digital asset services due to regulatory non-compliance. Amidst these challenges, Thailands SEC has unveiled an updated regulatory framework aimed at fostering a more crypto-friendly environment in the country. The framework includes measures such as the removal of retail investors limits for tokens backed by assets like real estate or infrastructure, signaling a potential shift towards greater openness to digital assets in Thailand. ChatGPT ChatGPT Thailand has positioned itself as a crypto-friendly jurisdiction in recent years, striving to create a conducive environment for the growth and development of the cryptocurrency and blockchain industry. Several factors contribute to Thailands reputation as a crypto-friendly destination: Regulatory Framework: Thailand has implemented clear and comprehensive regulatory frameworks governing digital assets and cryptocurrency-related activities. The countrys Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) oversees the regulation of digital asset businesses, including cryptocurrency exchanges, initial coin offerings (ICOs), and digital token offerings (DTOs). This regulatory clarity provides legitimacy and confidence for businesses operating in the crypto space. Licensing and Compliance: Crypto businesses in Thailand are required to obtain licenses from the SEC to operate legally. These licenses ensure that companies comply with regulatory standards, including anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) regulations. By adhering to these requirements, businesses can establish trust with users and investors while mitigating risks associated with financial crimes. Innovation Sandbox: Thailands regulatory authorities have introduced an innovation sandbox program to facilitate the testing and development of new fintech products and services, including blockchain-based solutions. This sandbox allows startups and companies to experiment with innovative technologies within a controlled environment, fostering innovation while maintaining regulatory oversight. Supportive Ecosystem: Thailand boasts a vibrant ecosystem of crypto enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and investors. The country hosts blockchain and cryptocurrency conferences, meetups, and events, providing opportunities for networking, collaboration, and knowledge sharing within the community. Additionally, academic institutions and research centers in Thailand actively contribute to blockchain research and education initiatives. Government Initiatives: The Thai government has expressed interest in harnessing the potential of blockchain technology to drive economic growth and enhance efficiency in various sectors. Initiatives such as blockchain-based supply chain management, digital identity verification, and smart contracts are being explored to improve transparency, security, and trust in government operations and public services. Overall, Thailands proactive approach to regulating and embracing cryptocurrencies has positioned it as a favorable destination for crypto businesses and enthusiasts. With a supportive regulatory environment, active community engagement, and government initiatives to promote blockchain innovation, Thailand continues to strengthen its status as a crypto-friendly nation in the global landscape. Thailands growing importance in Asia is evident across various economic, political, and cultural dimensions, positioning the country as a significant player in the region. Several factors contribute to Thailands increasing prominence: Economic Hub: Thailand serves as a key economic hub in Southeast Asia, boasting a diverse and dynamic economy driven by industries such as manufacturing, tourism, agriculture, and services. The countrys strategic location, well-developed infrastructure, and business-friendly policies make it an attractive destination for foreign investment and trade. Regional Connectivity: Thailand plays a crucial role in enhancing regional connectivity and trade integration through its participation in various multilateral initiatives and organizations. The country is a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and actively promotes economic cooperation and integration within the region. Tourism Magnet: Thailands vibrant tourism industry attracts millions of visitors from around the world each year, contributing significantly to the countrys economy and cultural exchange. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and world-class hospitality, Thailand remains a top tourist destination in Asia. Political Stability: Despite occasional political turbulence, Thailand maintains relative political stability compared to some of its neighbors in the region. The countrys constitutional monarchy and democratic institutions provide a framework for governance and stability, supporting its role as a reliable partner in regional affairs. Cultural Influence: Thailands cultural influence extends beyond its borders, with Thai cuisine, arts, and traditions gaining popularity worldwide. The countrys cultural heritage, including its festivals, music, and architecture, contributes to its soft power and influence in shaping regional and global cultural trends. Innovation and Technology: Thailand is increasingly focusing on innovation and technology as key drivers of economic growth and competitiveness. The government has launched initiatives to promote digital innovation, research and development, and entrepreneurship, positioning Thailand as a hub for tech startups and innovation in the region. Diplomatic Engagement: Thailand actively engages in diplomatic efforts to promote peace, stability, and cooperation in Asia and beyond. The country hosts important regional forums and summits, including the ASEAN Summit and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings, providing a platform for dialogue and collaboration among regional stakeholders. Overall, Thailands growing importance in Asia reflects its multifaceted contributions to regional development, connectivity, and cultural exchange. As the country continues to strengthen its economic resilience, technological capabilities, and diplomatic engagement, its role as a key player in shaping the future of Asia is likely to expand further in the years to come. Thailand and China share a complex and multifaceted relationship characterized by a blend of historical ties, economic cooperation, and strategic partnerships. Here are some key aspects of Thailand-China relations: Historical and Cultural Ties: Thailand and China have a long history of cultural exchange and interaction dating back centuries. The Thai royal family has Chinese ancestry, and there is a significant ethnic Chinese community in Thailand that has contributed to the countrys cultural diversity and economic development. Economic Cooperation: Economic ties between Thailand and China have strengthened significantly in recent decades. China is Thailands largest trading partner, with bilateral trade volumes reaching billions of dollars annually. The two countries engage in trade across various sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, electronics, and tourism. Infrastructure Projects: Chinas Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has led to increased infrastructure investment and cooperation between Thailand and China. Projects such as the Thai-Chinese high-speed rail link and the development of industrial parks and ports have been initiated to enhance connectivity and facilitate trade between the two countries. Investment and Finance: China has become a major source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Thailand, particularly in sectors such as manufacturing, real estate, and energy. Chinese companies have also invested in Thai businesses and infrastructure projects, contributing to economic growth and development in Thailand. Strategic Partnerships: Thailand and China have established strategic partnerships in various areas, including defense, security, and regional cooperation. The two countries conduct joint military exercises, engage in defense dialogues, and collaborate on counter-terrorism and maritime security initiatives. People-to-People Exchanges: Cultural and educational exchanges play a vital role in Thailand-China relations, fostering mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples. Thousands of Thai students study in China each year, while Chinese tourists visit Thailand in large numbers to explore its cultural heritage and natural attractions. Diplomatic Relations: Thailand and China maintain close diplomatic relations and engage in regular high-level visits and exchanges. The two countries coordinate on regional and global issues of mutual interest, including climate change, public health, and sustainable development. Both countries recognize the importance of maintaining stable and constructive relations and continue to work together to deepen their partnership across various domains. Shayne Heffernan According to a report from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), deputies ordered a man to get out of his car so they could take him into custody. The suspect, Kenneth Dehart, is wanted on warrants for first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder and being a felon in possession of a firearm. UPDATE: A former Chattanooga businessman and Chattanooga Lookouts investor has been sentenced for a decade-long Ponzi scheme. John J. Woods will serve nearly 8 years in federal prison for defrauding more than 400 investors out of more than $49 million. Woods, while serving as a fiduciary, promised investors profitable returns but used the monies he raised from new investors to pay Ponzi profits to earlier investors, said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan. Woods abused the trust of his victims, including retirees, seniors, and military veterans, who lost their life savings and retirement accounts due to his greed. Following Woods release from prison, he will receive three years of supervised release. He has also been ordered to pay restitution to the victims of his scheme. The hearing to set restitution for victims is set for April 15, 2024. John Woods makes a bid to purchase Chattanooga Lookouts John Woods, a former Chattanoogan who is now the executive director of an investment banking firm in Atlanta, could be the next owner of the Chattanooga Lookouts. PREVIOUS STORY: John J. Woods, the former President of Southport Capital and manager of Horizon Private Equity, III, LLC, has pleaded guilty to operating a Ponzi scheme that defrauded hundreds of investors out of more than $25 million. It is the FBIs hope that todays guilty plea will provide some sense of relief to those victims that have suffered so much by Mr. Woods greed- fueled conduct, said Keri Farley, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. This case serves as another reminder that investors need to be careful, and do their research, when deciding who to trust with their hard-earned money. According to U.S. Attorney Buchanan, the charges and other information presented in court: Woods operated a Ponzi scheme until being shut down by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission in 2021. Woods solicited investors to invest in a fund called, Horizon Private Equity. Woods, and other investment adviser representatives acting under his direction, promised potential Horizon investors rates of return of six to seven percent on their investment and that Horizon would earn a return by investing their money in, for example, government bonds, stocks, or small real estate projects. Contrary to these representations, the money received from new investors was not invested in a diverse portfolio; and money collected from new investors was used largely to pay returns to previous investors. Horizon was able to pay guaranteed returns to investors only by raising and using new investor money. As a part of the scheme, Woods caused Horizon to issue monthly statements to investors that fraudulently misled investors by failing to disclose that the Horizon investments had not generated a positive percentage of return sufficient to cover the interest. As of the end of July 2021, Horizon investors were owed more than $110,000,000 in principal investment amounts. And over 400 investors, residing in at least 20 different states, held investments in Horizon. Losses are still being calculated, but investors have lost more than $25 million because of Woodss scheme to defraud. PREVIOUS STORY: Former Chattanooga businessman John J. Woods was charged with one felony count of wire fraud stemming from an alleged Ponzi scheme in which federal regulators accused him of bilking investors. Woods is accused by the U.S. Attorney's Office in the Northern District of Georgia of causing a victim of the alleged scheme to wire more than $251,000 to an account to invest "based on material misrepresentations and omissions," according to court documents. The charge filed in U.S. District Court in Atlanta said Woods on or about June 21, 2021, caused the victim, identified only by initials, to wire the money "for the purpose of executing and attempting to execute the scheme" to defraud. The former investor of the Chattanooga Lookouts faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted. He had already been accused by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission of running a Ponzi scheme for over a decade, collecting more than $110 million from over 400 investors. The Ponzi scheme allegedly caused the loss of $25 million of investors' money. Woods pleaded not guilty and was released on a $25,000 bond. The case is ongoing, and the court will determine the remaining issues. Judgments totaling $65 million were entered in the commission's case against Southport Capital and Horizon. Read more from our news partners at The Chattanooga Times Free Press here. On Thursday, February 8, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Valerii Zaluzhnyi. Zaluzhnyi had one of the most difficult tasks: to lead the Armed Forces during a full-scale war with Russia. ADVERTISIMENT The general is one of the most trusted people in Ukraine thanks to his key role in deterring the initial Russian attack and his simple human qualities. OBOZ.UA tells what the "Iron General" Zaluzhnyi will be remembered for. General Valerii Zaluzhnyi was well known to everyone who was at least a little interested in military issues since the ATO and JFO. However, he became commander-in-chief only in 2021, and after the full-scale Russian invasion, the whole world started talking about Zaluzhnyi. Childhood and education Zaluzhnyi was born into a military family in Zviahel, Zhytomyr region, so he spent his childhood in a garrison among the military. The future "Iron General" studied at the local school No. 9. At the first lesson, when his teacher asked him about his dreams for the future, little Zaluzhnyi confidently said, "I will become a soldier. I will defend our country." ADVERTISIMENT After graduating from the Novohrad-Volyn Machine-Building College, he entered the General Military Faculty of the Odesa Institute of Land Forces. Military career In 1997, he graduated from the institute with honors, after which he went through all the stages of military service . Zaluzhnyi served as a platoon commander, training platoon commander, combat platoon commander, training company commander, cadet company commander, and battalion commander. ADVERTISIMENT He continued his studies at the National Defense Academy, graduating in 2007 with a gold medal for studying the use of mechanized tank formations. Between 2007 and 2009, he served as Chief of Staff and First Deputy Commander of the 24th Separate Mechanized Brigade of the 13th Army Corps of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the Lviv region. From 2009 to 2012, he commanded the 51st Separate Mechanized Brigade. In 2014, Zaluzhnyi was recognized as the best graduate of the operational and strategic level of training at the Cherniakhovskyi National Defense University of Ukraine, for which he received the Queen's Transitional Sword of the United Kingdom. War with Russia and leadership positions in the army Zaluzhnyi has been involved in the fighting in Donbas since 2014. In 2017, he was appointed Chief of Staff, First Deputy Commander of the troops of the Operational Command "West" of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. ADVERTISIMENT On August 24, 2017, he was promoted to the rank of Major General. In 2018, Zaluzhnyi became the Chief of the Joint Operational Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, First Deputy Commander of the Joint Forces. "For me, the war began in mid-July 2014 when I was appointed deputy commander of Sector C, which was being formed in the Donetsk region. Since then, I have led almost all the groups that were created. I reached the position of Chief of Staff of the Joint Forces," Zaluzhnyi told Army.inform in 2020. It is worth noting that under his leadership, the troops successfully liberated Pivdenne from the Russian occupiers and advanced to Volnovakha. ADVERTISIMENT Already in 2019, Zaluzhnyi became the commander of the operational command "North". On July 27, 2021, Volodymyr Zelenskyy appointed Valerii Zaluzhnyi as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. He replaced Ruslan Khomchak in this position. Full-scale Russian invasion Since the beginning of the great war in 2022, Ukrainian defenders have managed to stop the advance of more than 100 enemy battalion tactical groups in nine directions. In addition, they managed to liberate Kyiv and Kharkiv regions, as well as the occupied regional center of Kherson. These operations were commanded by Commander-in-Chief Valerii Zaluzhnyi and his staff. After World War II, there had never been a military campaign of this scale and intensity in history. ADVERTISIMENT Zaluzhnyi's efforts were appreciated by both the military and civilian Ukrainians and even the West. He has become a true symbol of the resilience of the Ukrainian people in the most difficult times of war. For example, on September 26, 2022, the reputable Time magazine put a portrait of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces on the cover, captioning his photo very succinctly, "General". According to the magazine, the Ukrainian army would hardly have achieved such success without its commander. It has been noted that it was General Zaluzhnyi's extraordinary decisions on how to conduct combat operations that helped Ukraine turn the tide of the war in its favor. ADVERTISIMENT Retired British Colonel Glen Grant said that it was Zaluzhnyi who was able to unite the military and became a great motivator for the entire Ukrainian nation. In addition, in 2022, Zaluzhnyi was named one of the 100 most influential people in the world by Time. Moreover, back in April 2022, after the defeat of the occupation forces in the Kyiv region, which Western analysts dubbed "brilliant," Zaluzhnyi received the "title" of "Iron General" from Politico journalists, which has since been inextricably associated with the Ukrainian commander-in-chief. In its analytical material, Politico noted that "the commander will become a legendary figure in Ukrainian history. After all, the success of the Ukrainian army has surprised the world." ADVERTISIMENT Interesting facts Several streets in different cities of Ukraine are named after Zaluzhnyi. On May 28, 2022, in the city of Pokrov, Dnipro region, Horkyi Street was renamed Valerii Zaluzhnyi Street. And on June 9, 2022, in the village of Stara Syniava, Heorhii Zhukov Street was renamed General Zaluzhnyi Street. In January last year, Zaluzhnyi received a $1 million inheritance from the United States, donating all the money to the Ukrainian army. As a reminder, the President appointed Oleksandr Syrskyi, commander of the Land Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, as the new commander-in-chief. Only verified information is available on OBOZ.UA Telegram and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Sextortion is when an online criminal, posing as an attractive young person, who convinces an actual child to take and share nude photos of themselves. Check out our latest E-Edition Accessible anytime and anywhere on your desktop, tablet and smart phone devices. The Lodi News e-Edition is enhanced with the latest digital tools, including RSS feeds, social networking and much more. Check out our latest E-edition! A man who pleaded guilty to dangerous driving while on drugs was fined 1,000 and banned from the road for two years. Joseph Granaghan (27) of Glencullen Upper, Bangor Erris, Mayo was before the court on three motoring offences stemming from an incident on December 28, 2022. Mr Granaghan was charged with driving with a quantity of drugs, cannabis, in his system, dangerous driving at Shroid, Longford and dangerous driving at Tinnynarr, Edgeworthstown. A further charge of public intoxication at Ballinalee Road, Longford was struck out by the presiding judge, Bernadette Owens. Sergeant Mark Mahon told the court that at 5:45pm on the date Mr Granaghan pulled up behind a motorist on the approach to the roundabout at Tinnynarr, Edgeworthstown. The vehicle overtook them in a dangerous manner. The driver of the passed car followed Mr Granaghan and recorded the manner of driving on her dashboard camera. The driver called Longford Garda station and informed them of the erratic behaviour of the car who had passed her. As the defendant entered the roundabout on the approach to Longford town he again took the wrong lane. The officers who responded to the call stopped and arrested Mr Granaghan. The arresting Gardai believed the driver was intoxicated and a subsequent blood test returned a reading of 17.ng and 2.2ng of cannabis. Solicitor Anthony Feeney said his client had entered a plea of guilty to the charges. Mr Feeney acknowledged that the defendant had five previous and four of them were for road traffic offences. The solicitor said that four of those convictions were from a single incident in 2015 when his client was 18 years of age. Mr Feeney said the defendant had been taking prescribed Zopiclone and this drug affected his driving. He said the cannabis in Mr Granaghan's system was from the previous night. Mr Feeney said his client is not currently working, but has worked in construction in the past. He said Mr Granaghan plans to take up a job offer in Iceland. The solicitor said the defendant accepted he had issues with his driving and has undertaken a Pro-Social Driving course. Noting the facts and the mitigation put before the court Judge Bernadette Owens described the case as a serious case of dangerous driving. The judge registered a conviction and imosed a fine of 500 with six month to pay for the drug driving with a one year driving ban, and a fine of 500 with seven months to pay for the first dangerous driving charge with a two year driving ban. The second dangerous driving charge was taken into consideration. RTE presenter Joe Duffy has weighed in on speculation of the future of his career with RTE. There had been several reports that he wouldn't look to extend his contract once it ends in mid-2025. The long-serving presenter jokingly said live-on-air that the phrase 'shown the door' could be applied to his current situation. Since addressing the rumours on-air, Liveline listenership has increased according to the latest JNLR figures released this Thursday, with 303,000 people tuning in daily - making the show the tenth most listened to programme on Irish radio. Earlier in the week, a caller named Noel rang in about when he was rejected for using cash at a cinema and said he was "shown the door and wasn't welcome" at the Savoy cinema in Dublin. Duffy responded saying that was a "great phrase". He said: "There's a story in about five papers saying I'm going to be shown the door in June twelve months. "But that's the first I've heard about it. And RTE say he doesn't want a new contract, that's the first I heard about that as well." When another listener said she hoped he was "going bloody nowhere" he replied: "So do I. I've never heard of anyone talking about their contract a year and a half before it's up, or making a decision." RTE director general Kevin Bakhurst told the Irish Mirror earlier in the week that Duffy, who has been with RTE for more than 30 years, has not sought to extend his deal. In the wake of this, speculation on his future has even led to bookies giving odds on where the popular Ballyfermot native could end up next. Newstalk and Today FM are both topping the charts as possible new employers for the 68-year-old broadcaster. The odds of him swapping RTE for Newstalks Marconi House offices are currently 7/5 and it sticks out as the favourite as a possible alternative for Joe, should he decide to leave RTE. Health & Wellness, Press Releases By Long Island Published: February 09 2024 New York Attorney General Letitia James, alongside local officials, announces a settlement-in-principle with Syracuse landlord William DAngelo, who will pay $310,000 for failing to address lead-based paint hazards at his rental properties, with funds allocated ... New York Attorney General Letitia James, Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon, and Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh announced that they have reached a settlement-in-principle with Syracuse landlord William DAngelo and his company Marpat LLC for failing to properly address lead-based paint hazards at rental properties he owned. As a result of the agreement, DAngelo will pay $310,000, which will be used for a tenant relief fund that will provide payments to families of the children who were lead-poisoned in the DAngelo properties. The funds will also be used to identify and resolve all potential lead hazards at DAngelos properties with a history of lead violations. William DAngelo cut corners and failed to address serious lead hazards at his properties, putting countless children and their families in danger, said Attorney General James. In Syracuse and throughout New York state, the life-changing health impacts of lead exposure disproportionately affect children of color. My office will always fight to protect children from lead poisoning and work with our partners in government and advocacy to keep families safe. I am grateful to County Executive McMahon and Mayor Walsh for standing with us against this public health crisis. In July 2023, Attorney General James, County Executive McMahon, and Mayor Walsh filed a lawsuit against DAngelo and his company, alleging that he repeatedly and persistently violated lead safety laws at nearly two dozen rental properties in Syracuse. Over the past eight years, there were at least 360 violations of lead safety laws at properties owned by DAngelo. At least 16 children, 11 of them children of color, were poisoned by lead while living at these properties. Lead-based paint in residential housing is a pervasive problem in Syracuse, where 81 percent of the housing stock was built before lead-based paint was banned in New York in 1970. Lead poisoning in Onondaga County is highest among children of color, the majority of whom live in Syracuse. In 2022, 510 children in Onondaga County had elevated levels of lead in their blood, and 90 percent of those children lived in Syracuse. More than 11 percent of the Black children tested in 2021 had elevated blood lead levels, compared to just two percent of white children tested. Over the last 30 years, DAngelo has owned and managed at least 48 rental properties with at least 116 individual rental units in Syracuse. According to city and county records, all of DAngelos rental properties were built prior to 1940, and therefore are all presumed to contain lead-based paint. Most of these properties are in low-income neighborhoods and communities of color. DAngelo currently owns 39 rental properties in and around Syracuse, 22 of which have had lead-related violations. As a result of the settlement-in-principle, DAngelo will pay $310,000: $80,000 will go to current and former tenants harmed by lead paint exposure at the properties he owned over the past eight years and $230,000 will fund the identification and resolution of lead hazards at the 22 currently owned properties with lead-related violations. Further, DAngelo will be barred from selling any of these properties without the OAGs approval until all lead hazards have been resolved. Attorney General James thanks Onondaga County and the City of Syracuse for their close collaboration and partnership on this matter. The OAG will continue to work with local partners statewide to combat childhood lead poisoning. My administration has fought to secure millions of dollars in historic funding to address the scourge that lead has had on our community. In order to make real progress, however, we need partners at all levels of government, said Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon. Thank you to Attorney General James and Mayor Walsh for their efforts to ensure we have a unified front that holds irresponsible landlords accountable while making the necessary improvements to provide safe housing for members of our community. With the help of Attorney General James, this settlement sends a powerful message to careless landlords: you cant escape your responsibility to provide a safe and healthy living environment for your tenants, said Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh. In partnership with Attorney General James and County Executive McMahon, we will continue to use the tools and authority we have available to hold bad landlords accountable and protect children and families from the effects of lead exposure. This settlement-in-principle is the latest in Attorney General James efforts to hold landlords and property managers accountable for violating childhood lead poisoning prevention laws in New York. In July 2023, Attorney General James filed a lawsuit against Syracuse landlord Todd Hobbs for repeated and persistent violations of lead safety laws at more than a dozen rental properties. In June 2022, Attorney General James shut down Syracuse landlord John Kiggins and his company, Endzone Properties, Inc., for repeatedly violating lead paint laws and failing to address lead paint hazards, which resulted in the lead poisoning of 18 children living in Endzone properties in Syracuse. In March 2023, Attorney General James sued Buffalo landlord Farhad Raiszadeh for repeated and flagrant violations of lead safety laws at dozens of properties in East Buffalo. In November 2022, Attorney General James secured $5.1 million in restitution and penalties to fund ongoing childhood lead poisoning prevention programs administered by the City of Buffalo and Erie County, as a result of a September 2020 lawsuit against a group of individuals and companies in the Buffalo region for illegally allowing lead paint-related hazards to proliferate in their rental properties. In March 2022, Attorney General James led a multistate coalition in calling on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to strengthen protections against lead poisoning, particularly for children living in low-income communities and communities of color. In September 2021, Attorney General James announced an agreement in her lawsuit against Chestnut Holdings of New York, Inc., a property management corporation, over its failures to protect children from lead paint hazards in New York City. Also in September 2021, Attorney General James reached a pre-suit agreement with A&E Real Estate Holdings, LLC to ensure that children living in its New York City apartments are protected from dangerous lead-based paint. Crime By Chris Boyle Published: February 09 2024 Taylor Woods allegedly spent victims funds from investment agreements they signed to acquire more than a dozen hotels. Nassau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly announced that a Idaho man was indicted on grand larceny and other charges for allegedly operating an investment fraud scheme in 2021 and stealing approximately $1.2 million from individuals who believed they were investing in a company that was buying dozens of hotels from a bankruptcy portfolio. Taylor Woods, 52, was arraigned on Tuesday before Judge Meryl Berkowitz on two counts of Grand Larceny in the Second Degree (a C felony) and Scheme to Defraud in the First Degree (an E felony). The defendant pleaded not guilty and was released on his own recognizance. If convicted, Woods faces a potential maximum of five to 15 years in prison. He is due back in court on March 13, 2024. This defendant allegedly bilked two investors out of a total of $1.2 million using empty promises of a large-scale bankruptcy portfolio acquisition that he represented as fully funded and ready to move forward imminently, said DA Donnelly. Our investigation revealed his overtures were nothing more than a sham, the investment was not funded, and the defendant allegedly spent his victims funds. Investing always comes with risk, but it should never be because of untrustworthy partners engaging in fraud. DA Donnelly said that, according to the indictment, during the summer of 2020, Tyler Woods allegedly began discussing an investment opportunity that involved the purchase of a bankruptcy portfolio which included 18 hotels that were part of another companys bankruptcy estate. In early 2021, Woods was put in touch with victim investors from Nassau County and explained that the opportunity would allow them to invest in Sky Holdings LLC, a company that Woods allegedly controlled, that would acquire, own, operate, and eventually sell a 50% share of the equity of another company, Eagle Hospitality Trust, and the bankruptcy portfolio. Woods allegedly told the victim investors that all the financing, except for a final $10 million, was in place, and the final investment funds from the victim investors were needed quickly because the deal would close within a few weeks. Woods allegedly also told the victims that a mortgage for the hotels was already in place. On February 4, 2021, one victim invested $1 million into Sky Holdings, in exchange for an equity ownership interest in the company, which represented 50% of the equity in the bankruptcy portfolio. The agreement stipulated that all funds raised were to be returned to the investors if the transaction was not completed. On March 5, 2021, another victim entered into a similar agreement with a $200,000 investment, which also gave him equity ownership interest in Sky Holdings and the bankruptcy portfolio. According to the charges, Sky Holdings never received a financial commitment to move forward with the investment beyond the funds received from the victim investors and the defendant allegedly spent the money on various expenses. Woods was arrested by NCDA Detective Investigators on February 6, 2024. Deputy Bureau Chief Betty Rodriguez of the Financial Crimes Bureau is prosecuting the case. The defendant is represented by Bruce Barket, Esq. and Daniel Arshack, Esq. Governor Kathy Hochul announced today that the New York State Police and local law enforcement agencies statewide will crack down on impaired and reckless driving during Super Bowl weekend. The STOP-DWI campaign will include underage drinking enforcement, along with increased patrols and sobriety checkpoints to deter, identify and arrest impaired drivers. The enforcement initiative, which runs from Friday, February 9, 2024, through Sunday, February 11, 2024, is funded by the Governors Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC). As we celebrate the Super Bowl with friends and family, State Police and local law enforcement are taking steps to protect New Yorkers from the dangers of impaired and reckless driving, Governor Hochul said. Proper planning and responsible decision making are critical to keeping our communities safe, and were stepping up our enforcement as part of that effort. While STOP-DWI efforts across New York have led to significant reductions in the number of drinking and driving fatalities, too many lives are still being lost because of crashes caused by impaired drivers. During the 2023 Super Bowl campaign, State Police arrested 183 people for impaired driving and issued 11,865 total tickets. According to New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, statewide, 1,028 tickets were given out for alcohol- or drug-impaired driving, part of a total of 35,437 tickets issued. New York State Police Acting Superintendent Steven James said, The New York State Police and our law enforcement partners remain steadfast in our commitment to keep drunk and drug impaired drivers off our roads. Those celebrating the big game should do so safely by planning ahead and ensuring that only a sober driver gets behind the wheel. We have zero tolerance for those irresponsible drivers, whose poor decisions endanger the public. Troopers, Deputies and Officers will be out in force this weekend to keep the roadways safe for all. Commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles and GTSC Chair Mark J.F. Schroeder said, Everyone wins during Super Bowl weekend when we all make it home safe. Impaired driving is entirely preventable if you plan ahead. Get a designated driver, use public transportation or call a taxi or ride-share service, and help make this weekend memorable for the right reasons. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2021, 13,384 people were killed in alcohol-impaired crashes. Drivers should remember that they are putting not only their lives, but the lives of others, in jeopardy when they choose to drink and drive. NHTSA reports that 37 people die each day in the United States in alcohol-related vehicle crashes. Thats one person every 39 minutes. State-specific data regarding alcohol-related vehicle crashes can be found here. If you are hosting, youre the team captain! Designate a responsible driver now to help your guests get home safely. Hezbollah targeted Israel with two barrages of rockets on Feb. 9. The rocket fire by the Iranian-backed terrorist group in Lebanon has taken place every day during the week of Feb. 5-9. Israeli soldiers were also wounded on Feb. 6 and 8. On Feb. 6, two soldiers sustained minor injuries, while an IDF officer was critically wounded. On Feb. 8, two soldiers suffered minor injuries. One of the Hezbollah rocket barrages targeted areas in northern Israel called the Galilee panhandle, which stretches north along the headwaters of the Jordan River. Video captured numerous interceptions at dusk over Israel. The IDF also said that Israels air defenses intercepted a suspicious aerial target above the Haifa maritime space. It was not clear if this was a threat from Hezbollah or a civilian object that had floated into the sensitive area. Haifas maritime area includes numerous cargo ships, the port area, and a navy base. The Israeli air force is increasingly focused on the Hezbollah threat. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant referred to the air force pointing north on Feb. 4. In addition, Israel air force commander Maj. Gen. Tomer Bar spoke at a conference at the Israeli Palmachim airbase south of Tel Aviv. Hezbollah will continue to pay with the loss of its systems. Dozens of aircraft are now operating in the skies of southern Lebanon, and the moment an order is given the dozens will turn into hundreds carrying out the missions within minutes from launch, the IDF said, paraphrasing his comments. The conference was attended by Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, and the Commanding Officer of the Southern Command, Maj. Gen. Yaron Finkelman. The conference is important, and the IDF says it was attended by all commanders in the IAF from the rank of Lt. Col. and up, including the commanders of squadrons and operational units, and has focused on plans for 2024. As part of Israels focus on the north, Maj. Gen. Ori Gordin, the head of Israels northern command, met with the head of Israeli communities in the north on Feb. 9. Israel has evacuated 80,000 civilians from the north due to Hezbollah attacks that began after the Hamas attack on Israel on Oct. 7. Our goal is to change the security situation in the north in a manner that will allow us to safely return the residents home to a state of security, Gordin said. He said that Israel continues to prepare for an expansion of the conflict in the north and the possibility to go on the offensive. The comments by Gordin came as the IDF responded to the attacks on Feb. 9. IDF fighter jets struck a military site in which Hezbollah terrorists were operating in Maroun El Ras as well as three military compounds in the towns of Yohmor and Naqoura in southern Lebanon. The IDF also struck a number of locations in southern Lebanon with artillery and mortar shells, the IDF said. In addition, overnight, the Israeli air force struck a Hezbollah site near Meiss El Jabal. Israel is focusing heavily on security in the north. This week, FDDs Long War Journal traveled to northern Israel to see some of the work the IDF has been doing to improve the situation. However, the continued Hezbollah attacks illustrate that despite efforts to conduct precision strikes on Hezbollah sites and reinforce communities along the border, the attacks continued. Reporting from Israel, Seth J. Frantzman is an adjunct fellow at FDD and a contributor to FDDs Long War Journal. He is the acting news editor and senior Middle East correspondent and analyst at The Jerusalem Post. On Thursday evening, at approximately 4:30 PM local time, media outlets began reporting on a possible Israeli drone strike in south Lebanon. The details of the strike were slightly unusual. The strike occurred in the city of Nabatieh in south Lebanon, which sits approximately 8 km north of the Litani River. This was the first Israeli strike in the city since the 2006 war with Hezbollah. Shortly before the strike, at approximately 3:53 PM local time, Al-Manars correspondent Ali Choeib had reported the presence of Israeli Hermes 450 and 900 Kochav drones conspicuously circling above Al-Nabatieh and Al-Zahrani and continued to conduct concentrated overflights until approximately 4:26 PM minutes before the attack occurred. Then, the Israeli drones targeted a black Hynduai SUV while it was traveling on Mahmoud Faqih Street, in the midst of Nabatieh. The initial strike, according to NNA Lebanon, missed its target and landed in an open area. However, as the car approached the statute of Hassan Kamel al-Sabbah, at Nabatiehs northern entrance, its occupants escaped and ran away on foot, upon which the drones fired again, destroying the car. Details regarding the outcome of the strike remain murky. Initial reports were inconsistent on the number of the cars occupants some reported two, others three but there was a consensus that they were members of Hezbollah. As of the time of this writing, neither the Israel Defense Forces nor Hezbollahs main media outlets Al-Manar, Al-Mayadeen, Al-Nour and its military media have mentioned the strike at all, let alone details about the intended targets, despite each side reporting their other respective attacks from the day. While this suggests that the cars occupants were high-value target members of Hezbollah, it also complicates identifying them or determining their fates with certainty. Based on what can reasonably be determined, however, the car was carrying Abbas al-Debes, aka Al Hajj Abdullah, and one other companion who has not been named. Al-Debes existence and role in Hezbollah were first revealed in September of 2022 by the blog IntelliTimes, which reported that Al-Debes then 43 years old, and from Nabatieh was an operative within Hezbollahs Unit 1800 and was aiding the Iranian aerial defense project in Syria. Nothing else has been revealed about Al-Debes since then, par for the course for the shadowy lives of Hezbollahs military commanders. Artist Sketch of Abbas Mohammad al-Debes, courtesy of IntelliTimes Israeli reports after the strike indicated that Al-Debes had taken on a new role in the interim as a regional commander for the terror group based in his hometown of Nabatieh. An Israeli military source, speaking to media outlets anonymously after the strike, stated that the operation in Nabatieh targeted the Radwan Units commander in the area of Al-Khiyam in south Lebanon, suggesting that Al-Debes had assumed a command role in Hezbollahs elite commando terror force. While some initial reports indicated that Al-Debes had been killed in the strike, it is unclear as of now whether that was the case. Al-Arabiya and Al-Hadath claimed, based on their own unnamed sources, that Al-Debes had indeed been killed, which was echoed by Galei Tzahal reporter Doron Kadosh. But an unnamed Lebanese security source told AFP one occupant of the car was seriously wounded in the strike, while his companion was also injured. Apparently, a third person, a bystander, was also wounded in the strike. Indeed, other outlets claimed that the seriously wounded occupant was pulled from the wreckage wearing a military uniform and immediately transferred to Al-Najda al-Chaabiyeh Hospital, approximately 1.5 km north of the attacks location, and from there to Hezbollahs Sheikh Ragheb Harb University Hospital, 6 km away in the nearby village of Toul, where he was immediately admitted for surgery. This was confirmed later in the day by Annahar, which reported that the two Hezbollah members targeted by an Israeli drone strike in Nabatieh are now in stable condition, after a successful surgery on the member who was in serious condition. Forces under Al-Debes command were responsible for anti-tank missile fire targeting the northern Israeli city of Kiryat Shmona and Metula, on the Lebanon-Israel frontier. Earlier that morning, Hezbollah had claimed an attack on Kiryat Shmona that seriously wounded an IDF soldier at Camp Gibor. Camp Gibor serves as the Headquarters of the Hiram Regional Division, responsible for security tasks in the eastern sector of Israels border with Lebanon. While an Israeli military spokesman was unable to tell AFP whether Al-Debes was responsible for that mornings specific attacks on Kiryat Shmona. However, Galei Tzahal reported that Al-Debes had indeed been responsible for that mornings attacks, while other Israeli military sources which was echoed by an Israeli military source to Sky News Arabia. Shortly afterwards, reports began emerging that the other but primary and actual intended target of the strike was Ali Karaki, whom media outlets described as a Hezbollah military commander but, more significantly, the general military commander of Hezbollah and the highest-ranking military command personality in the Hezb[ollah], and a member of its Jihad Council, which oversees the groups whole military apparatus. Those reports indicated that Karaki had survived the Israeli strike, which was the second attempt on his life. It does not appear that Karaki was the Hezbollah member described as wounded but in serious condition. Reports indicate that Karaki was not in the car at the time it was struck and had avoided being hit by the drone strike after having successfully camouflaged himself. Ali Karaki, born on February 25, 1967, is a long-standing member of Hezbollah. In the late 1980s, he allegedly belonged to the Hezbollah cell, which carried out attacks on fifteen targets in Paris between December 1985 and September 1986. Karaki has been counted as a senior leader of Hezbollahs Jihad Council for at least five years. He previously commanded the Muawaniyeh 105, Hezbollahs southern command, and was responsible for military operations in south Lebanon. He was born in Ain Bouswar, a village in south Lebanons Nabatieh District. He holds both Lebanese and Guinean citizenship, and is also known as Muhammad Ali Karaki and Muhammad Karaki. The United States Department of State designated him as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) in September 2019 for his role in Hezbollah. It is possible, but highly unlikely, that this Ali Karaki the target of todays Israeli strike is identical to the eponymous individual arrested by Azerbaijan in 2008 over a plot to blow up the Israeli Embassy in Baku in retaliation for the assassination of Hezbollah military commander Imad Mughniyeh. That Ali Karaki, described as a veteran of Hezbollahs external operations unit, was sentenced to 15 years in prison and disclosed intelligence information regarding his Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) contacts making his reintegration into Hezbollahs ranks at such a senior level implausible. Whether or not Israel succeeded in killing Ali Karaki and Abbas Al-Debes, the attempt on the life of two members of Hezbollah as high-ranking as this pair is an unmistakable escalation by the Israelis. The group cannot be expected to remain passive in the face of such a strike, all the most so if they have been killed. But their death or survival is almost secondary to the message that Israel was trying to send its adversaries in Hezbollah that its patience with the groups ongoing attacks is running out, and that it should consider none of its leadership safe, irrespective of the consequences. David Daoud is Senior Fellow at at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies where he focuses on Israel, Hezbollah, and Lebanon affairs. In the nearly two years since the full-scale invasion of Russian troops, Ukraine has made significant progress both on the battlefield and on the diplomatic front. At the same time, the aggressor state of Russia is experiencing only defeats and failures, although it is trying to carefully conceal this. ADVERTISIMENT This was emphasized by the Permanent Representative of the United States of America to the OSCE, Michael Carpenter, at a meeting in Vienna on February 8, Ukrinform reports. He noted that Moscow is trying to "create the appearance of success of its military campaign." At the same time, Ukraine has managed to liberate more than 50% of the territory that Russian troops have seized since February 24, 2022, pushing the war front line back to Russia. And now the Armed Forces of Ukraine are bravely holding the line against constant attacks. The American diplomat emphasized that Ukraine is making progress not only on the battlefield but also in the air and at sea. He reminded that the Air Force has been successfully repelling Russian missile and drone attacks, and Ukraine has created a "grain" corridor in the Black Sea. ADVERTISIMENT "Ukraine is effectively using defense assistance to intercept wave after wave of Russian missiles and drones. By working with its neighbors to create a new export corridor after Russia withdrew from the Black Sea Grain Initiative, Ukraine is countering Russian efforts to keep Ukrainian grain out of the world," Carpenter said. He also reminded that more than 50 countries, led by the United States, support Ukraine's ability to defend itself against Russia's attack. In addition, representatives of 83 countries gathered in Davos in January to discuss Ukraine's peace plan." "All of this stands in stark contrast to Russia's successive series of failures. Moscow has had no choice but to deepen ties with international pariahs under sanctions, such as the DPRK and Iran. It is increasingly dependent on the support of these regimes to continue the war," Carpenter said. ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information is available on our Telegram OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! A Ukrainian military spokesman confirmed today that Russian troops have pressed into northern Avdiivka, a small city in southeastern Ukraine that has been on the front line since 2014. While Avdiivka will likely fall, Russia currently has little prospect of exploiting that success. That could change, however, if Congress does not pass more aid for Ukraine. Russian Gains in Avdiivka On February 4, the Ukrainian war correspondents Yuriy Butusov and Andriy Tsaplienko reported that Russian forces had entrenched themselves in buildings in northern Avdiivka. Tsaplienko said the Russians had exploited cloudy weather that impeded Ukrainian drone reconnaissance. The Russian troops bypassed the Avdiivka Coke and Chemical Plant, a key defensive stronghold located at the northwest end of the city. They evidently aim to block Ukraines main supply route (and only paved road) into Avdiivka, the 00542 road, which connects to the city from the northwest. On Feb 5, Butusov and a usually reliable Ukrainian Telegram channel reported that Russian troops were around a kilometer from the mouth of the road. As of February 7, the Russians had consolidated their positions and were attempting to push deeper, according to the Ukrainian channel. Today, a spokesman from Ukraines Tavria Operational-Strategic Grouping of Troops, whose area of operations includes Avdiivka, confirmed that Russian forces had pressed beyond the houses on Adviivkas northern outskirts and into the city itself. Estimation of Russian advances in Avdiivka as of February 8, 2024, based on Ukrainian reports and other open-source information. Avdiivka Recap Russia launched an operation to take Avdiivka back in October. A sizable mechanized force, which included Central Military District units redeployed from northeastern Ukraine, attempted to envelop the city and sever its supply routes. Yet this effort achieved little despite heavy losses, including hundreds of vehicles. Ukrainian mines, artillery fire (including with U.S.-provided cluster munitions), and first-person view (FPV) attack drones decimated the attacking Russian columns. Russian observers complained of insufficient counter-battery fire and shoddy coordination between Russian units, which these days are manned in large part by poorly trained mobilized personnel. Ukraine redeployed additional forces to shore up Avdiivkas defense, including several mechanized brigades that had participated in Kyivs unsuccessful 2023 counteroffensive. Russia shifted tactics, relying mainly on small-unit assaults by dismounted infantry. Over months of attritional fighting, Russian troops inched forward at Avdiivkas northern flank but also began trying to press directly into the city itself. In January, the Russians achieved a minor breakthrough at Avdiivkas southern outskirts, although the situation stabilized following Ukrainian counterattacks. Now, however, Avdiivkas fall seems like a matter of when, not if. While for several weeks we were saying the situation was very difficult but under control, now the situation is very difficult and in some places critical, Avdiivkas mayor acknowledged yesterday. Ukraine Short on Men and Materiel Although Russia has likely taken far heavier casualties at Avdiivka than Ukraine, a dearth of infantry makes it difficult for Ukrainian forces there to replace losses and rotate personnel. Ukraines artillery units, meanwhile, suffer from shell hunger, exacerbated by the suspension of U.S. aid commitments in late December. By contrast, Moscow has received a large amount of ammunition from North Korea, providing Russian forces with a considerable quantitative advantage in artillery fire. Ukraines shell shortage has forced it to rely more on FPV drones as a partial replacement for artillery. Russia has reportedly responded by hunting for Ukrainian drone operators in the Avdiivka area, targeting their positions with bombs and artillery. As in Bakhmut last year, heavy Russian artillery fire and bombing steadily destroy buildings used as defensive positions, eventually allowing Russian infantry to seize the rubble. Ukrainian sources say Russia has dropped hundreds of guided bombs on Avdiivka in 2024 alone more than during all of last year, according to Ukrainian officials. According to Avdiivkas mayor, Russia has also stepped up its bombardment of the citys main supply route in recent weeks, using guided bombs in addition to FPV drones. Most of these bombs are dumb munitions retrofitted with UMPK add-on kits, which turn them into guided glide bombs that can be launched from stand-off range. Introduced last year, the UMPK has allowed Russias Air Force to play a greater role than it could earlier in the war. Russia may have increased UMPK production in recent months. Russia has also begun using these kits with more types of bombs, including cluster munitions and powerful 1500-kilogram bombs. Implications of Avdiivkas Fall Russias progress in Avdiivka follows minor Russian advances elsewhere on the eastern front in recent weeks. But while the Russians have regained the initiative in most areas, Ukrainian forces will likely manage to prevent major Russian gains so long as Washington provides Kyiv with even relatively modest amounts of military aid this year. In theory, Moscows forces could exploit Avdiivkas fall to drive deeper into Donetsk Oblast, perhaps toward the city of Pokrovsk, an important logistical hub. This would go a long way toward achieving Vladimir Putins goal of taking the rest of the Donbas region. As things stand now, though, Avdiivkas fall would likely just flatten the front line while providing some breathing room for Russian logistics in nearby Donetsk city. Having taken heavy losses among its junior officer corps and professional enlisted troops, Russias military appears unable to execute a large-scale offensive against a stubborn Ukrainian defense. Moscows penchant for premature offensives further undercuts its ability to rebuild force quality. And despite its increasing domestic shell production and supplies from abroad, Russia cannot replicate the crushing fire superiority its forces enjoyed during their 2022 Donbas offensive. If Congress does not pass further aid, however, the next year will look much darker for Ukraine. John Hardie is the deputy director of FDDs Russia Program and a contributor to FDD's Long War Journal. A book sale organised by school children in Burnham has raised funds for an African orphanage. Avid readers at St Peters CofE School brought-in books for an exchange that raised 388 for Beautiful Gate in Lesotho, a charity that looks after abandoned, neglected or orphaned children aged five and under. Lesotho is a small land-locked country next to South Africa that suffers from extreme levels of poverty and disease. A high rate of HIV has left a large portion of children parentless with the charity estimates that 18% of the population are orphans. Since 2001 they have looked after almost 600 children. When the children at St Peters heard this they knew Beautiful Gate Lesotho was their chosen charity to support this school term. The children were moved by the work of the orphanage during a talk from a volunteer, Jenny Dobson, said headteacher Tanya Morris. They felt strongly that these children should have lives that reflect those of any other child. Through Beautiful Gate Lesotho they are given opportunities to go to school, play with their friends and feel the love missing from their lives. St Peters children want to be a part of making this happen. The fundraising has kicked off with a fabulous book sale during which hundreds of books changed hands across the school. St Peters children are avid readers so this event was greeted with great excitement. The children raise a grand total of 388 and are already planning their next event. In previous school terms the children at St Peters raised 3,799 for Thames Valley Hospice and 144 for the NSPCC. Donations towards the schools Beautiful Gate Lesotho fundraiser can be given by contacting the school at: admin@stpeters.bucks.sch.uk President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has awarded former Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Valerii Zaluzhnyi the title of Hero of Ukraine. ADVERTISIMENT The President signed Decree No. 61/2024 on February 8, and the text of the document was published on the website of the Presidential Office. According to the decree, Zaluzhnyi was awarded the highest degree of honor in Ukraine for his services in the defense of the country and selfless service to the people. "For outstanding personal merits in the defense of state sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, selfless service to the Ukrainian people, I hereby decree: to award the title of Hero of Ukraine with the Order of the Golden Star to Valerii Zaluzhnyi, General," the document reads. Also, the Chief of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine Kyrylo Budanov and Lieutenant Colonel Vyacheslav Ageev were awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine. ADVERTISIMENT As reported by OBOZ.UA, on February 8, Zelenskyy dismissed Zaluzhnyi from the post of Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and appointed Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander of the Land Forces of the Armed Forces, to replace him. In his video address, the president thanked Zaluzhnyi for "two years of protection" and said he had offered him to stay "in the team of the Ukrainian state." According to Zelenskyy, 2024 can be a successful year for Ukraine only if there are effective changes in the defense sector. Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, in turn, said that on February 8, a decision was made to change the leadership of the Armed Forces, noting that Zaluzhnyi had one of the most difficult tasks - to lead the army during a major battle with Russia. According to the Washington Post, Zelenskyy and Zaluzhnyi did not trust each other, and the last and main factor in the split was allegedly the general's request to mobilize more people. ADVERTISIMENT Zelenskyy has already voiced his expectations of the new commander-in-chief: the development of a detailed action plan for the Armed Forces for 2024, a fair redistribution of Western weapons between combat brigades, solving logistical problems, knowledge of the frontline by each general, a review of the number of staff, an effective rotation system, only trained soldiers on the contact line, and the appointment of a commander of the Unmanned Systems Forces. After the change of leadership in the Armed Forces, the Pentagon said it was ready to cooperate effectively with any Ukrainian military leader, while the US State Department called Zaluzhnyi 's resignation and the appointment of Syrskyi a sovereign decision that the head of state has the right to make. On Friday, February 9, Oleksandr Syrskyi made his first statement as commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. In particular, he assured that the lives and health of Ukrainian soldiers were and are the main value. ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! As Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Valerii Zaluzhnyi has become a symbol of resilience for the Ukrainian people in the extremely difficult times of Russia's full-scale invasion. The General is respected both among the military and civilian population of Ukraine and abroad, where he is also perceived as a symbol of resilience, strength and indestructibility of our country. ADVERTISIMENT In April 2022, the American edition of Politico called him the "Iron General" after the brilliant defeat of the Russian occupiers in the Kyiv region. The occupiers dreamed of "reaching Kyiv in three days" but the Ukrainian army led by Zaluzhnyi changed the course of the war forever. OBOZ.UA decided to recall the most successful military campaigns of the Armed Forces of Ukraine under the leadership of Valerii Zaluzhnyi. Defense of Kyiv, counteroffensive in Kharkiv region, liberation of Kherson The victory in the Battle of Kyiv, as well as the defense of the north and Kharkiv, are considered to be the events that became the starting point for all subsequent successes of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. In particular, the fact that thanks to the coordinated actions of the troops led by Zaluzhnyi, the Russian army was driven out of Kyiv, Chernihiv, and Sumy regions in early April 2022. ADVERTISIMENT When the West predicted that Ukraine would be able to withstand a much stronger enemy for no more than three weeks, Zaluzhnyi said, "Kyiv will stand!" The general refused to blow up bridges across the Dnipro in the capital, which also played an important role in public confidence and ultimately in the defense itself. The memoirs of participants in the battles for Kyiv proved that Zaluzhnyi personally made extraordinary efforts to save the capital and planned a trap operation to repel the enemy's advance. The Ukrainian army did not yet have enough equipment and men to confront the Russians in an open battle, so Zaluzhnyi considered the best option to organize a series of traps for the enemy. ADVERTISIMENT To slow down the movement of the occupiers, the Ukrainian Armed Forces blew up bridges across the Irpin River and set off a series of explosions on the dam, so that the waters of Irpin turned the surrounding areas into impassable swamps for vehicles. This plan was a lifesaver when the occupiers concentrated their forces on trying to break through the Ukrainian troops' defense near the village of Moshchun, where the capital's defenders fought the hardest. In the end, the occupiers failed to advance beyond Moshchun, and in early April, they withdrew their troops from near Kyiv and from northern Ukraine. ADVERTISIMENT A little later, the respect of Western partners and the Ukrainian people was fueled by a successful counteroffensive by the Ukrainian army in the Kharkiv region. The operation had been planned for quite some time but was kept secret because success depended on it. Then the Ukrainian Armed Forces seized the moment and launched a lightning-fast counteroffensive that forced the Russians to flee in a hurry, leaving their equipment behind. On November 11, 2022, the Ukrainian military entered Kherson, the only regional center that was occupied in the first days of the full-scale war. Zaluzhnyi said at the time that the operation had been going on since early September. "However, success has its price. Eternal memory to our fallen brothers and sisters! We know who and what we are fighting for. Together to victory," the head emphasized at the time. ADVERTISIMENT This great success of Ukrainian troops meant the final end of Russian dictator Putin's idea to take over all of Ukraine. Such victorious operations drew even more attention to Ukraine and its army commander-in-chief, Valerii Zaluzhnyi. In May 2022, Time magazine included the general in the list of the world's one hundred most influential people of the year. In September, the same publication devoted a large article to Zaluzhnyi's personality, and his photo with the eloquent caption "The General" was placed on the cover of the issue. ADVERTISIMENT "His dogged preparation in the run-up to the invasion and savvy battlefield tactics in the early stages of the war helped the country repel the Russian onslaught," the Times wrote. In addition, Zaluzhnyi established strong relationships with U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and other high-ranking Western generals, which played a crucial role in securing military support for Ukraine in 2022 and 2023. Valerii Zaluzhnyi spent more than two years as commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and is leaving his post with the glory of having stopped the Russian army in the most difficult months of the invasion. In addition, he has the highest trust rating from the Ukrainian people. "His work will go down in history," wrote his American colleague Mark Milley, former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information is available on OBOZ.UA Telegram and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! SPRINGFIELD The Womens Fund of Western Massachusetts went public this week with its search for a new CEO. Donna Haghighat, CEO of the Womens Fund of Western Massachusetts for nearly seven years, will retire June 30. A New Hampshire man pleaded guilty Thursday in Boston federal court as one of four people who harassed and intimidated two journalists from New Hampshire Public Radio (NHPR) in 2022, acting U.S. Attorney Joshua Levy from the Department of Justice announced. Michael Waselchuck, 36, of Seabrook, New Hampshire pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit stalking through interstate travel and through using interstate communication. His sentencing is scheduled for May 10. SOUTHWICK During a Planning Board public hearing on a proposal to build a 58,800 square foot self-storage facility on College Highway, board members made it clear they think the building is too big for the lot. Weve been telling you since the beginning your building is way too big, said board member David Sutton to two developers, Ellen and Jim Boyle, who approached the town last April about building a self-storage facility at 662A College Highway. Les membres du Cabinet ont preis note de la promulgation de l Energy Efficiency (Labelling of Regulated Machinery) (Amendment) Regulations 2024, du Childrens (Conduct of Child Mentors) Regulations 2024, du lancement des requetes des propositions pour les Urban Terminal a Rose-Hill et Vacoas, que les festivites du 12 mars 2024 auront lieu au Champs de Mars entres autres. 1. Cabinet has agreed to the promulgation of the Energy Efficiency (Labelling of Regulated Machinery) (Amendment) Regulations 2024 which provide for the extension of the moratorium from 29 February to 31 May 2024. The Energy Efficiency (Labelling of Regulated Machinery) Regulations 2017 provide for mandatory affixing of energy efficiency labels, also known as energy labels and for their registration free of cost with the Energy Efficiency Management Office. Energy Labelling aims at improving the energy efficiency of products and providing information on products efficiency to consumers. 2. Cabinet has taken note of the promulgation of the Childrens (Conduct of Child Mentors) Regulations 2024 which provide for mandatory compliance by Child Mentors with the Code of Ethics and sets out the procedures in case of non-compliance. The Code of Ethics establishes a set of principles designed to regulate the conduct of child mentors in performing their duties with honesty and integrity. It also establishes accountability for adherence to the code, provides guidance and sets common ethical standards to promote consistency in behaviour for all child mentors. 3. Cabinet has taken note of the promulgation of the Limited Liability Partnerships (Application) Regulations 2024. The Regulations provide for broadening the scope of the Limited Liability Partnerships Act and extending the activities under the Limited Liability Partnership framework to include a business activity whose primary object is to hold an ownership interest in, or to enter into contractual relationships with, entities offering professional or consultancy services. The Regulations would help consolidate the financial landscape by encouraging more entities in Mauritius or located abroad to be incorporated as a Limited Liability Partnership under the Act. 4. Cabinet has agreed to the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Economic Development Board and the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the United Arab Emirates. The objectives of the Memorandum of Understanding would be, inter alia, to: (a) encourage the exchange of trade delegations, exports and economic discussion and follow-up of visits; (b) coordinate with a view to establishing and expanding a business network which will facilitate the business opportunities available in both countries; (c) encourage the flow of reciprocal economic information, statistics and trade data, and ensure making them accessible to the members of both parties to facilitate trade contracts and activate joint projects; (d) encourage joint research activities whenever possible and required; and (e) assist in organising or participating in trade fairs, exhibitions, conferences, seminars and other similar activities held in both countries. 5. Cabinet has taken note that Request for Proposals would be launched for Urban Terminal Projects at Rose Hill and Vacoas. In that respect, the Ministry of Local Government and Disaster Risk Management would invite proposals from promoters having the necessary experience, expertise and resources for the development and operation of an integrated Urban Terminal. 6. Cabinet has agreed to the Ministry of Environment, Solid Waste Management and Climate Change signing a Small-Scale Funding Agreement with the United Nations Environment Programme to support the implementation of the Capacity development to catalyse actions and commitments at the national and global levels to reduce plastic pollution, including in the marine environment. The Agreement would comprise the following: (a) a gap analysis and data collection regarding the different aspects of plastic pollution; (b) the production of a National Source Inventory which would identify and assess the main sources and pathways of plastic pollution and marine litter in Mauritius; (c) a review and analysis of the legislative and policy landscape pertaining to plastic pollution and marine litter; and (d) the drafting of a National Roadmap/Strategy/Plan based on evidence and information gathered in the National Source Inventory. 7. Cabinet has taken note of the outcome of the visit of HE Mr Wavel Ramkalawan, President of the Republic of Seychelles to Mauritius from 31 January to 03 February 2024 in the context of the Commemoration of the 189th Anniversary of the Abolition of Slavery. The presence of the President of Seychelles to this event was an important testimony of common history and culture. On 01 February 2024, HE Mr Wavel Ramkalawan participated in the Commemoration Ceremony at Le Morne International Slave Route Monument, where he delivered an address recalling common ancestry and struggle for liberation. He also mentioned the unconditional support of Seychelles to Mauritius for its sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago. Collaboration in a number of sectors were also discussed. 8. Cabinet has agreed that the 56th Anniversary of the Independence and the 32nd Anniversary of the Republic of Mauritius would be celebrated at national level at the Champ de Mars in Port Louis on 12 March 2024. The programme would include the flag raising ceremony followed by parade and defile by uniformed forces, majorettes of the Queen Elizabeth College accompanied by the Police Band, defile of floats by the Local Authorities and Non-Governmental Organisations, as well as a cultural programme with renowned popular local artists. 9. Cabinet has agreed to bring at par the rates charged by the Mauritius Cane Industry Authority for land preparation and transport cost to food crop growers with those charged to sugarcane growers. 10. Cabinet has taken note that, in the context of the 65th anniversary of the Office of the Electoral Commissioner, a Regional Conference on Electoral Democracy would be held on 24 and 25 April 2024. The Conference is being organised by the Office of the Electoral Commissioner in partnership with the Cambridge Conference on Electoral Democracy, under the joint aegis of the Cambridge Malaysian Education and Development Trust of the Malaysian Commonwealth Studies Centre and the International Foundation for Electoral Systems. Various thematic areas would be discussed during the Regional Conference. 11. Cabinet has taken note that the 7th meeting of the Groupe de contact Maurice-Reunion sur la Securite would be held on 20 February 2024 in Mauritius. The meeting would focus on progress made, inter alia, in the following areas, namely Securite interieure, Securite maritime, la Circulation entre les deux iles, Cooperation judiciaire and Lutte contre les atteintes a lenvironnement. 12. Cabinet has taken note that a workshop on the Marine Protected Area which would be created by Mauritius, around the Chagos Archipelago would be held from 27 to 29 February 2024 with the support of the Zoological Society of London. 13. Cabinet has taken note that the Christening Ceremony of the new multi-purpose cargo vessel, MV Peros Banhos, acquired by Mauritius Shipping Corporation Ltd would be held on 28 February 2024 at the Port Louis Cruise Terminal. 14. Cabinet has taken note that as at 08 February 2024, there were 408 active cases of Dengue Fever in Mauritius, of which 85 were hospitalised both in public and private hospitals. In Rodrigues from 19 January 2024 to 08 February 2024, 198 new cases of Dengue Fever had been recorded, out of which there were 134 active cases and 18 patients were hospitalised. On 07 February 2024, the Prime Minister chaired a Meeting with relevant stakeholders to take stock of the situation and the measures being taken by the various Ministries/Authorities to fight the propagation of the disease as well as the treatment and the prevention, thereof. 15. Cabinet has taken note of the activities being organised by the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare to mark International Womens Day which is celebrated on 08 March every year. The national theme retained for this year is More power to Women. A national gathering would be held on 25 February 2024 at the Swami Vivekananda International Convention Centre, whereby members of womens associations, the private sector, Government institutions and the civil society would be invited. In that context, the Gender Equality Seal for the Public Sector which aims at acknowledging Ministries/Departments actively engaged in gender-responsive initiatives would be launched. In addition, the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare would carry out, inter alia, the following activities (a) capacity building programme/workshop on Digital upskilling of Women and Girls in Africa with the collaboration of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa and Gender Concepts with members of 25 HeforShe Clubs; (b) replicating the gender mainstreaming process in Rodrigues; and (c) revamping the National Women Entrepreneur Council to become an apex body for women entrepreneurs with technical assistance from the Investment Climate Reform Facility, funded by the European Union. 16. Cabinet has taken note of the activities being organised by the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security in the context of World Wetlands Day 2024 to raise public awareness on the value of wetlands for humanity and the planet while also marking the adoption of the Convention on Wetlands. The aim is to sensitise the youth and the public at large on the importance of wetland conservation and the negative impacts of wetland destruction on human lives. The theme for this years celebration is Wetlands and Human Wellbeing, highlighting how all aspects of human well-being are interrelated to the health of the worlds wetlands. Like every year, Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, marks World Cancer Day 2024 themed Close the care gap together with Africas First Ladies and Ministries of Health through their Cancer Access Program to build quality and equitable cancer care capacity in Africa with the aim to increase the limited number of Oncologists and develop the first multidisciplinary cancer care teams across the continent. Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, the CEO of Merck Foundation, highlighted, We mark World Cancer Day together with Africas First Ladies, not just on a specific day, but every day and every year through transforming and advancing cancer care in Africa by enhancing professional capacity and improving access to high-quality and equitable cancer care throughout the continent. I am proud to share that Merck Foundation together with African First Ladies is successfully increasing the limited number of Oncologists in Africa by providing 140 scholarships to young African doctor from 28 countries. We are making history together by providing these important scholarships for the first oncologists and /or the first cancer care teams in many countries across Africa. Merck Foundation in total provided more than 1700 scholarships to doctors from over 50 countries in 42 critical and underserved medical specialties. Launched in 2016, the Merck Foundation Cancer Access Program provides One, two- and three-years fellowship, Post Graduate Diploma and Master Degree of oncology for doctors from Africa. The clinical training has been conducted in India, Egypt and Kenya. Additionaly, Merck Foundation also provides scholarships for 2 years online PG Diploma in Cancer and Clinical Oncology, 01 year online PG Diploma in Medical Oncology and 1 year online PG Diploma in Pain Management from reputed Universities in UK like University of South Wales, University of Buckingham, Queen Mary University of London, Cardiff University and The University of Edinburgh. Merck Foundation is establishing Multidisciplinary Oncology Care teams in many African countries by providing scholarships of clinical training in Medical Oncology, Surgical Oncology, Pediatrics Oncology, Gynecology Oncology, Breast Oncology, Haemato-Oncology, Orthopaedic Oncology, Palliative Care, Pathology Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Research in Oncology, Surgical Oncology Genital Urinary System, Advanced Cytopathology Training, Interventional Radiology, Radiation Technician, Laboratory Technician, Oncology Nursing. Merck Foundation through its Merck Foundation Cancer Access Program has provided 141 scholarships of Oncology to doctors from 28 countries which are: Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Congo Brazzaville, Ethiopia, The Gambia, Ghana, Gabon, Guinea, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Mauritius, Namibia, Nepal, Niger, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. In some of these countries, there was not even a single Oncologist, therefore, we are proud that we are making history in Africa through training the first Oncologists and First Cancer Care teams in many countries such as; The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Burundi, Liberia, Guinea Conakry, Central African Republic, Chad, and Niger. Merck Foundation is committed to leading Africa to a better future through transforming the landscape of Cancer care in the continent, explained Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej. As per WHO data, every year, Africa records around 1.1 million new cases of cancer, resulting in up to 700,000 deaths. The mortality rate cancer patients is very high in Africa, as compared to the rest of the world. One of the key reason is also the late diagnosis of the disease. Moreover, Africa has only 3% of the worlds cancer treatment facilities. Therefore, through their Cancer Access and Oncology Fellowship Program, Merck Foundation is committed to improving the lives of people and has been transforming the cancer care landscape and making history together with its partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond. Merck Foundation has also created awareness materials including awareness leaflets and videos on Cancer Prevention and Early Detection. Dr. Mahamat Saleh Mahamat Baldass, Merck Foundation Oncology Alumni from Chad says, I am the first Chadian Medical Oncologist of the country. I have benefitted from the One-year Oncology Fellowship training conducted at Tata Memorial Hospital in Mumbai, India, offered to me by Merck Foundation. Two of my colleagues have benefitted from the three-month hands-on training in Oncology Nursing and Onco-pathology. The training I received has helped me in treating cancer patients in my country who either had to travel abroad for treatment (often very expensive), or simply gave up the hope to live. I would like to extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to Merck Foundation for giving me this opportunity. Dr. Sylvestre Bazikamwe, Merck Foundation Alumni from Burundi shares, His Excellency Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia, Amos Hochstein, Senior Advisor to President Biden, and Samaila Zubairu, President and CEO of the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) (www.AfricaFC.org) convened the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGI) Lobito Corridor Private Sector Investor Forum in Lusaka . This is the first PGI Investor Forum outside the United States, bringing together over 250 business and government leaders from Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the European Union, the United States, and Zambia, as well as international investors and industry leaders to accelerate private sector investment in the Lobito Corridor, which will connect the DRC and Zambia with global markets through Angola. The Lobito Corridor is the first strategic PGI economic corridor launched by President Biden at the G7 Summit in Japan in May 2023 under the flagship G7 Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment initiative. The corridor will integrate the African continent and enhance connections with global markets by expanding export possibilities, boosting regional trade, and growing key market segments, all while creating decent jobs and improving lives. PGIs efforts to upgrade and build new railway will result in the first trans-African rail line, stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the Indian Ocean. A U.S. Development Finance Corporation (DFC) $250 million investment, currently in due diligence, would support the Lobito Atlantic Railway (LAR) consortium that is upgrading and operating a 1,200 km Benguela rail line across Angola with advisory support from the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC). The LAR upgrade will dramatically reduce transport time, better connect critical mineral-rich regions in the DRC with the global markets and lower the carbon emissions footprint of goods currently moved by road. By lowering costs for businesses along the corridor, it will also open new markets, including agribusiness. The Investor Forum follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in October 2023 in which the African Development Bank, the AFC, the governments of Angola, DRC, Zambia and the United States, and the European Commission underscored their shared commitment to developing the Lobito Corridor. The MOU named AFC as lead developer on the new Zambia-Lobito rail line extending from the Benguela line into northwest Zambia. In addition to rail, PGI is investing catalytic public funds alongside G7 and African partners in various sectors, demonstrating a new model of holistic private-sector led infrastructure development while maintaining strong labor and environmental standards, and promoting trade and investment on the African continent. The PGI Forum marks the partners coming together to further mobilize private sector investment across the Lobito Corridor and unlock the enormous potential of this region. During the forum in Lusaka, the U.S. Government and partners announced additional commitments to the corridor: DFC announced that its Board of Directors just approved a new $250 million debt facility to the AFC that would support their efforts to develop high-quality and high-standards infrastructure across the continent. That potential project is now pending congressional review. DFC also marked its commitment to provide a $10 million loan to Seba Foods Zambia, the first U.S. food and agriculture investment along the Lobito Corridor. Additionally, the United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) announced a feasibility study grant to REV-UP Solar Ventures Zambia to develop an estimated 200-megawatt solar power plant and battery energy storage system in Solwezi, Zambia. The project will supply clean, stable electricity to Zambian industry and households and has the potential to provide power for two critical mineral mines in the DRC. This week LAR announced a six-year export shipment term-sheet with Canadian mining company Ivanhoe that will advance the rail lines ambitions to become the leading rail transport link in sub-Saharan Africa and support clean energy supply chain diversification. Supporting efforts to unlock the potential of the Copperbelt region, AFC has entered into an MOU with Congolese commodity trading and mining company La Generale des Carrieres et des Mines (Gecamines) to undertake the development of critical minerals in the DRC. AFC has also signed an expression of interest with Kobaloni Energy to provide $100 million in financing for a cobalt refinery in Chingola, Zambia, with the objective of building the first electric vehicle battery grade cobalt sulphate plant on the African continent. These announcements build on the more than $1 billion of U.S. government investments made in Angola in the past year. This includes an Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) authorization of a more than $900 million loan supporting construction of two solar energy power plants that will generate over 500 megawatts of renewable energy, and an additional $363 million EXIM loan guarantee to support financing and construction of over 180 bridges connecting rural Angolan communities. Further, two USAID grants are enabling Africells recent mobile money launch to reach more underserved populations, and to expand an existing program supporting women farmers to communities around the Lobito Atlantic rail line. Todays milestone underlines the importance of the Lobito Corridor initiative. The corridor is a vital logistics hub that connects the region to international markets while demonstrating that strategic public infrastructure investment can mobilize private investment across multiple sectors to promote economic growth that transforms the region. THERE have been repeated dark warnings of late that Westport will be faced with a raft of business closures unless the current downswing in retail activity is reversed. And most observers would accept that the dire forecasts are no longer a case of crying wolf; there is a crisis and there are no simple solutions. Much is made of the argument that last seasons woes were due to a third of Westport tourist accommodation being negated by its being set aside for immigrant needs. But there is more at play than that. Small businesses struggling with labour costs, VAT, commercial rates and increased overheads have little option, if they are to survive, but to up their prices, and this in turn leads to the charge that Westport is becoming unaffordable. The vicious circle creates its own momentum; its hard to get full-time staff in the hospitality sector because wages are low, which means those who might be minded to work in the sector are unable to afford the cost of accommodation. It might be cold comfort for Westport to say that the town, and its businesses, are not alone in their dilemma. Domestic businesses all over Ireland are under pressure, not least because of rising costs imposed by a range of government measures. The planned increase in the minimum wage might be challenging enough on its own, but it brings its own additional costs to an employer in terms of PRSI, coupled with the new expense of pension auto enrolment and extended sick pay entitlements. One of the unintended side effects of being a high-tech economy is that wage rates become skewed across the general economy. If the glossy multinationals think nothing of paying ultra generous salaries, then the effect trickles down to the lower reaches of the jobs market, and everyone starts looking for a slice of the good times. Nobody can quibble with the Government objective of eliminating low wage employment. The commitment is to increase gradually the minimum wage to a national living wage by 2026. In real terms, that means a wage pegged at some 15 per hour, a prospect to send shivers down the spine of restaurant, cafe and service providers who, even as it is, are barely keeping their heads above water. And that wont be all. New proposals to increase wage levels for those coming here to work on employment permits have recently been unveiled. The intention is to provide a floor on earnings for those coming here from outside the European Economic Area. The idea is well intentioned, but the fear is that little attention has been given to the consequences. Many of these workers will be employed in the health care and nursing home sector, which has seen a spate of closures in the past year and where, according to a PWC survey, one third of the operators actually lost money in 2022. The proposals which for the moment, following an outcry, have been put on hold are that a healthcare assistant would earn a minimum of 39,000 by 2026. It would take no genius to realise the knock on effect if that were to happen. A new bench mark would be set for wage levels, and in a competitive labour market, the gap between an employees expectations and what the employer can afford to pay would become chasmic. It is inevitable that the Government will be forced to take some alleviating measures to help small businesses to survive. Given what lies ahead, the call to revert the VAT rate back to 9 percent would seem a reasonable one. The danger is that, for many, when it comes, it will be too little, too late. AN Achill native will lead the St Patrick's Day Parade in Mayo's twin city of Cleveland after he was chosen as the Grand Marshal of the 2024 parade. Patrick Thomas Murphy, a native of Polranny in Achill will be the Grand Marshal for the Cleveland St Patrick's Day Parade which is one of the oldest and best attended in the US with the first taking place in 1842. He will lead an anticipated 10,000 participants through the streets of Cleveland on St Patrick's Day with close to half a million people expected to line the streets along the shores of Lake Erie. The theme of the 2024 Cleveland parade is 'Ireland: One Island One Nation' and is expected to begin at 2pm starting on Superior Avenue at East 18th Street and will end at the intersection of Rockwell Avenue and Ontario St. Patrick was born in Achill, the third of eight children to Thomas and Angela Murphy but was only a toddler when the family emigrated to Cleveland in 1962. The family have been active in Irish American life in Cleveland and Patrick himself is a former trustee and officer of the West Side Irish American Club as well as being a member of the Irish American Club - East Side, and the Mayo Society. Patrick has served as the Executive Director of the St Patricks Day Parade in Cleveland and organised the publication of a book, 'The Day We Celebrate' chronicling the 175 Year History of the Cleveland parade. Pat has been married to Carlene for the last 35 years and they are the parents to Kelly, Kurt, Tim, Sam and Dan and he regularly travels to his native Achill and catching up with relatives. He graduated with a law degree in 1986 and is a partner in the Cleveland law firm of Dworken & Bernstein, specialising in medical malpractice and nursing home abuse cases. He is a founding member and trustee of the Thomas J Scanlon Irish American Law Society of Cleveland and in 2016 and 2022 Patrick chaired the Law Societys symposiums in Galway, Dublin and Cork. He was honoured with the Walks of Life Award from the Irish American Archives Society in 2020 and named the ilrish Person of the Year in 2023. Recently Pat was selected to become a member of the Irish Heritage Advisory Committee for the Irishtown Bend project. Mayo and Achill has strong ties with Cleveland going back to the time of the Great Famine and last year a series of events took place on both sides of the Atlantic to mark the 20th anniversary of the twinning of Mayo County Council, Achill and the city of Cleveland. The twinning agreement between Mayo County Council, Achill and the city of Cleveland was described as the 'gold standard' of how 'sister cities' should work and operate. Live coverage of the State Funeral of former Taoiseach, John Bruton, will be broadcast by RTE today and tomorrow. The former Taoiseach, whose wife Finola is a Westport native, passed away earlier this week. Mr Bruton's remains will be brought to St Peter and Paul's Church, Dunboyne, Co. Meath, this evening, Friday, February 9. The removal service at 7pm will be broadcast live on the RTE News channel. Katie Hannon and Eoghan O Neachtain will provide commentary from the cemetery. Tomorrow, Saturday, February 10, special television coverage of the State Funeral, will start at 10.40am on RTE One. President Michael D Higgins and An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar TD, and other dignitaries will be in attendance. Later in the day, the funeral cortege will proceed to Rooske Cemetery in Dunboyne, where Mr Bruton will be laid to rest and buried with full military honours. Irish Sign Language (ISL) coverage will be broadcast live on RTE News Channel and RTE Player. Colm O Mongain will present a special programme on RTE Radio 1 from 10.50am featuring coverage of the funeral Mass and burial, with Philip Boucher-Hayes and Cuan O Seireadain providing commentary. Westport Fine Gael TD Michael Ring and former Taoiseach Enda Kenny were among the many people who have paid extensive tributes to Mr Bruton over the last number of days. The resignation of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, has become one of the top topics in the Western media. Journalists are trying to find out the possible reasons for the dismissal, of which there are five main ones. ADVERTISIMENT These include disputes with partners, the failure of the summer counteroffensive, and even the possible political ambitions of the "iron general." Read what could have influenced President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's decision to change the leadership of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in OBOZ.UA's review of Western publications. Unjustified expectations from the counteroffensive and the transition to NATO standards According to the American newspaper The Hill, Zaluzhny's dismissal was "the biggest shakeup in Ukraine's military cabinet" since the Russian invasion in 2022. Defense policy expert and Cornell University professor David Silby told the newspaper that Zaluzhnyi "appears to be taking responsibility for the failure of Ukraine's fall offensive." "The heavy casualties that have accompanied trench warfare have deprived Ukraine of troops, and the political struggle in the United States is jeopardizing material support for the Ukrainian war effort. Zelensky cannot control any of this, but he can control those who command Ukrainian forces, and that is why he fired Zaluzhny. This is more a sign of desperation than calculation," Silby said. ADVERTISIMENT At the same time, Austrian military analyst Tom Cooper suggested in a conversation with Politico that Zaluzhny was criticized for not completing the transformation of the army into a Western-style force, not improving logistics, and failing to rotate away from the front line to give the troops a chance to rest and recover, rather than leaving them in the trenches for the entire war. Disputes over the counteroffensive with partners Zaluzhnyi had a strained relationship with Washington after he and US military leaders disagreed on how to conduct a summer 2023 counteroffensive, Politico reports. The Pentagon insisted that the Ukrainian Armed Forces deliver a major strike, focusing on one area where planners believed a breakthrough was possible. Instead, Kyiv opted for several attacks along the entire front, believing that this would make it difficult for Russian troops to reinforce in many areas. ADVERTISIMENT After several weeks of discussions, "as the offensive progressed, it became pretty clear that the Ukrainians simply weren't interested in U.S. advice, and they generally concluded that we had nothing to offer them in terms of advice," a "person who advised the White House on military matters" told the newspaper. The argument, according to the adviser, was that the United States has no experience in fighting the war that the Ukrainians are fighting, and while U.S. advice is welcome, it may also go unheard. While the blame for these disagreements fell solely on Zaluzhnyi's shoulders, he was also "cut off by Zelenskyy," who had the final say in military matters, "and so the US was yelling at the wrong person," the adviser said. He considered Zelenskyy's instructions unrealizable The Western press cites the reasons for Zaluzhnyi's dismissal as the fact that the Armed Forces Commander-in-Chief considered Zelenskyy's instructions unrealizable, and also negotiated without coordinating with the Defense Ministry and did not present an action plan for the Armed Forces for 2024. ADVERTISIMENT According to The Times' source, after rumors of Zaluzhnyi's dismissal surfaced, US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Victoria Nuland and US Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink met with Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov in Kyiv on January 31. During this meeting, Umerov explained the reasons for Zaluzhnyi's dismissal, stating that the President's Office was dissatisfied with the general's failure to provide plans for his military campaign for 2024. Zaluzhnyi also said that he was skeptical of Zelenskyy's orders and public statements, considering them unrealistic, and that he directly negotiated with allies for weapons supplies, excluding the Defense Ministry from the process. The sources also said that Nuland was unhappy with the intention to fire Zaluzhnyi and offered to smooth out the misunderstanding, contrary to Washington 's official position that it would not interfere in the decision, which is the sovereign right of the president of Ukraine. ADVERTISIMENT Zaluzhnyi's possible political ambitions The British newspaper The Guardian called Zelenskyy's decision a risky move, given Zaluzhnyi's high support ratings among Ukrainians. Thus, political opponents of the current head of state criticized him for being unclear about the reasons for Zaluzhnyi's replacement and suggested that the decision could have been motivated by fear of Zaluzhnyi's popularity rather than operational problems. Although Zaluzhnyi has never stated any political ambitions, many of Zelenskyy's opponents see him as a potential figure to unite around and believe he would have a future in politics if he wanted to. If the situation on the frontline continues to deteriorate after his resignation, Zaluzhnyi's support is likely to grow, the newspaper writes. Syrskyi's proximity to the Presidential Office ADVERTISIMENT The British newspaper The Financial Times called Oleksandr Syrskyi, who replaced Zaluzhnyi, close to the Presidential Office. According to the authors of the article, some Western officials and analysts advising Washington have also expressed concerns about Syrsky's decision-making since February 2022 and his ability to resist political interference in operational matters. As OBOZ.UA reported earlier, according to the Washington Post, Zelenskyy and Zaluzhnyi did not trust each other, and the last and main factor in the split was allegedly the general's request to mobilize more people. On February 8, Zelenskyy dismissed Zaluzhnyi from the post of commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces and appointed Oleksandr Syrskyi, commander of the Armed Forces, to replace him. The president thanked Zaluzhnyi for "two years of defense" and said he had offered him to stay in the team. ADVERTISIMENT According to Zelenskyy, 2024 can only be successful for Ukraine if there are effective changes in the defense sector. The president voiced his expectations of the new commander-in-chief: the development of a detailed action plan for the Armed Forces for 2024, a fair redistribution of Western weapons between combat brigades, solving logistical problems, knowledge of the front by each general, a review of the number of staffs, an effective rotation system, trained soldiers on the contact line, and the appointment of a commander of the Unmanned Systems Forces. On February 9, Syrskyi made his first statement as commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces, assuring that the lives of Ukrainian soldiers were and still are the main value. After his resignation, Zaluzhnyi was awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine. The moment of awarding turned out to be emotional: the President and the General hugged each other twice during the presentation of the Golden Star Order. ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! President Volodymyr Zelenskyy personally awarded former Commander-in-Chief Valeriy Zaluzhnyi with the title of Hero of Ukraine. The emotional moment of the awarding touched Ukrainians. ADVERTISIMENT The video of the ceremony was released by the President's Office on Friday, February 9. During the presentation of the Golden Star Order, which is awarded to Heroes of Ukraine, Zaluzhnyi and Zelensky hugged each other twice. "Today we are honoring with state awards and the title of Hero of Ukraine the soldiers who, together with all those who stood up to defend our state and Ukrainian life, determine the fate of Ukraine," the President of Ukraine said. He added that Ukraine has already managed to stop the aggressor and "learned how to defend its own in the way it needs to win." ADVERTISIMENT "And we have to go all this way exactly the way we need to in order to achieve Ukrainian goals. Glory to the Ukrainian soldiers! Glory to Ukraine!" Zelenskyy said. The video also shows the moment when the award was presented to the Chief of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, Kyrylo Budanov. The day before, Zelensky signed decrees awarding the title of Hero of Ukraine to Zaluzhnyi and Budanov. ADVERTISIMENT The ceremony was also attended by the new commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces, Oleksandr Syrskyi. As reported by OBOZ.UA, on February 8, Zelenskyy fired Zaluzhnyi and appointed Syrskyi as the new commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces. The president thanked Zaluzhnyi for "two years of defense" and said he had offered him to stay in the team. ADVERTISIMENT According to Zelenskyy, 2024 can be successful for Ukraine only if there are effective changes in the defense sector. Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, in turn, said that on February 8, a decision was made to change the leadership of the Armed Forces, and noted that Zaluzhnyi had one of the most difficult tasks - to lead the army during a major battle with Russia. Zelenskyy voiced his expectations of the new commander-in-chief: the development of a detailed action plan for the Armed Forces for 2024, a fair redistribution of Western weapons between brigades, solving logistical problems, knowledge of the front by each general, a review of the number of staffs, an effective rotation system, trained soldiers on the contact line, and the appointment of a commander of the Unmanned Systems Forces. The Pentagon stated that it was ready to cooperate effectively with any Ukrainian military leader, while the State Department called the change in the Armed Forces leadership a sovereign decision to which the head of state was entitled. ADVERTISIMENT On February 9, Syrskyi made his first statement as commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces. In particular, he assured that the lives of Ukrainian soldiers were and still are the main value. Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, February 9, 2024 Forty-five House Republicans are urging the Supreme Court to uphold an injunction that could prevent White House officials from discussing controversial matters with personnel at social media platforms. The injunction, issued in September by the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals, prohibits some government officials from attempting to coerce or significantly encourage platforms' content moderation decisions. In a friend-of-the-court brief filed Friday, Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) and other lawmakers claim the injunction is justified, arguing that the Biden administration repeatedly used government coercion to stifle public debate. The Biden Administration used its power to commandeer the apparatuses of social media companies to affect their COVID-related content policies, Jordan and the others argue. And out of self-interest, the companies complied and censored content beyond what they otherwise would have. This government coercion violates the First Amendment. advertisement advertisement The new papers come in a battle dating to 2022, when attorneys general in Louisiana and Missouri (and several individuals) alleged in a lawsuit that their social media posts relating to COVID-19 policies, vaccines and other current events were suppressed due to government pressure. The attorneys general and individuals argued federal officials violated the First Amendment by pressuring tech platforms to censor disfavored speakers and viewpoints. U.S. District Court Judge Terry Doughty in Monroe, Louisiana, sided with the plaintiffs and on July 4 issued a broad order prohibiting numerous federal agencies and officials from attempting to persuade social media platforms to take down posts that are protected by the First Amendment. The administration appealed Doughty's order to the 5th Circuit, which narrowed the injunction but upheld some of its key terms. As revised, the injunction prohibits some officials in the White House, Surgeon General's office, Federal Bureau of Investigation and Centers for Disease Control from attempting to coerce or significantly encourage editorial decisions by platforms. The administration then appealed to the Supreme Court, which temporarily halted the injunction. The White House disputes that it coerced platforms into taking down posts, writing in its appeal that social media companies often allowed flagged posts to remain up. Despite the platforms routine refusals to act in response to the governments outreach, neither respondents nor the Fifth Circuit have identified even a single instance in which the government imposed any adverse consequences in retaliation, Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar argued in papers filed with the Supreme Court late last year. She added that the injunction could limit officials from communicating with social media platforms about matters of public concern, including information about public health. Missouri and Louisiana countered in a brief filed earlier this month that the injunction doesn't prevent federal officials from advocating for censorship in the abstract, or from sharing their opinion on matters of public health. Instead, according to Missouri and Louisiana, the injunction merely prohibits federal officials from pressuring or jointly participating with platforms to censor other peoples opinions. The court is expected to hear oral arguments in the matter later this year. by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, February 9, 2024 Pressing his bid to prevent Google from prioritizing its services in the search results, Ohio's attorney general is urging a state court judge to say the company's search engine is considered a common carrier service. Google -- the general search engine on which an overwhelming portion of the population relies every day for decision-critical information -- satisfies every element of the common carrier test under Ohio law, Attorney General David Yost writes in papers made available late Thursday. Yost specifically argues that Google meets the definition of common carrier because it's available to all web users, garners ad revenue by transporting goods -- meaning information -- and provides services of public concern. His papers come in a lawsuit he brought in June 2021, when he claimed Google should be regulated as a common carrier -- and prohibited from giving its own services or products preferential treatment in the search results -- because it dominates the online search market. advertisement advertisement Yost alleged in the complaint that Google touts its own products in the search results, and pointed to a study that says around 65% of searches on Google desktop and mobile ended without clicks to a different company. Google previously said that study relied on faulty methodology, arguing the authors didn't take into account that people sometimes seek factual information, such as currency conversions or weather forecasts, as opposed to links to other companies. Last year Delaware County Common Pleas Court Judge James Schuck ruled that Yost could attempt to prove that Google Search is a common carrier, but also said it's not clear what impact that classification would have on the company. Google and Yost each filed papers in late January seeking summary judgment, but Yost's papers were kept under seal until Thursday. Google argued in its motion that it doesn't meet Ohio's definition of common carrier -- in part because it doesn't transport or carry people or their property. Google Search's business is to create its own product: in response to each individual user's query, it curates information and fashions a bespoke search results page, the company wrote. Yost counters in his bid for summary judgment that the information Google transmits should be considered a form of property. Information is not a physical good, but it is undoubtedly a good -- a thing of value -- that users rely upon Google to transport to them, he contends. Google and Yost are expected to file additional arguments by February 23. The case is scheduled to go to trial in September, unless Schuck makes a decision before then based on the written papers. Jio Studios Blasting the agenda-driven critics, Aditya thundered that he doesnt care much about it and said, People who label it as propaganda, I dont care about them. It is as simple as that. I know where its coming from. The Indian audience is actually very, very smart. They know ki kaunsi film propaganda hai aur kaunsi film ka intent correct hai. Until I am a director or a producer, the intent will always be right. The day the intent is wrong, Ill stop making films. I dont care what people say, especially the agenda-driven critics. Its my observation and I might be absolutely wrong, but I always thought that the downfall of agenda-driven critics happened with Uri: The Surgical Strike. While they said such bad things about Uri, the audience just thronged to the theatres. The audience doesnt care about their political agenda and how they are presenting their reviews. They only care about the intent of the filmmaker. Further giving an example of Vidhu Vinod Chopras 12th Fail, Dhar added, We have so many examples. We know that the intent of Vidhu Vinod Chopra behind 12th Fail was to make a great film. Aap usko kaisa bhi review de do, it doesnt matter. The audience will still go and see it. With Yami, all her films in the last 4-5 years have been brilliant and were hits as the intent was correct. Hence, I dont care about such critics. The propaganda is in their head which is making them view (the film in such a perspective). Article 370 is an India-centric film. Its an event which literally brought India together. It made India one, which hadnt happened in 70 years. Its one of the best stories that I have ever heard. Also featuring Arun Govil and Kiran Karmarkar in roles inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, respectively, Article 370 is slated for February 23, 2024, release in theatres. The Marine Corps has identified five service members who were killed after their CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter crashed in Southern California on Tuesday. Lance Cpl. Donovan Davis, 21; Sgt. Alec Langen, 23; Capt. Benjamin Moulton, 27; Capt. Jack Casey, 26; and Capt. Miguel Nava, 28, died when their aircraft went down near a mountainous part of the state east of San Diego during a routine training flight, according to the service. They were flying from Creech Air Force Base, Nevada, to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, when they crashed about 80 miles from their destination. All three officers were pilots, while Davis and Langen were crew chiefs. Read Next: Super Bowl Sunday: Here's How Each of the Military Services Will Make a Showing The Marine Corps notified the family members of the deceased in the days following the incident as fellow Marines guarded their remains overnight during recovery efforts and inclement weather. Military.com spoke to Langen's family Friday. Through tears, they remembered the intelligent, "goofy" young man who was full of life, built military structures out of Legos when he was little, and was driven to join the Marine Corps because of his dad. "He love the Marine Corps," Langen's father, Steve -- who also served as a CH-53 Super Stallion crew chief -- told Military.com. "He always said that's what he wants -- what Daddy did -- and he did it, and he did it better. "And being a part of this tragic accident with four fellow Marines, we are restful in knowing that he wasn't alone and that he was with the people he cared about most He was with his brothers," Steve Langen added. Langen, who is also survived by his mother, brother and sister, had been married for only a month when he was killed, his family said. "I looked up to him in so many ways," said Langen's sister, Elizabeth. She recalled driving up with him to his recent wedding, listening to Zach Bryan country music, a memory she said she will cherish. "We had a lot of life plans and things he was supposed to be there for. But he taught me how to live; he taught me so many things that I'll cherish forever." His family said his 17th birthday present to himself was arranging for his parents to meet a Marine recruiter. They told Military.com the same recruiter called them Friday to offer support, something they said the Marine Corps has been providing generously. "Alec is sitting on the back of a CH-53 over the ocean and he's waving back at the camera and we just prefer to think of him as saying, Im OK and youve got this and youre fine and Im OK, Caryn Langen told Military.com. (Photo courtesy Langen family) Military.com also spoke with Capt. Miguel Nava's father on Friday. He said that the Corps has also been providing support to his family in the aftermath of the incident. "Miguel was a great human being, driven," Javier Nava told Military.com. "He was committed to his wife and son, and family -- mom and dad and brother. He was just an absolutely beautiful human being." Nava, who was from Traverse City, Michigan, joined the Marine Corps in 2017 and was awarded the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon. Javier Nava said that his son always wanted to fly, and that the Marine Corps was a venue to do that after he had graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy. "He was an excellent American and committed to his country as well," he said of his son. Military.com attempted to contact the loved ones of all the deceased, but could reach only the Langen and Nava families on Friday. All five service members belonged to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, a subordinate unit to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing out of California. The squadron goes by the name "Flying Tigers." "We have been confronted with a tragedy that is every service family's worst fear," Lt. Col. Nicholas Harvey, commanding officer of HMH-361, said in a statement Friday. "Our top priority now is supporting the families of our fallen heroes, and we ask for your respect and understanding as they grieve." "The Flying Tigers family stands strong and includes the friends and community who have supported our squadron during this challenging time. We will get through this together," he added. The incident is currently under investigation. The doomed Super Stallion's last recorded location was around 11:30 p.m. Tuesday local time, Mike Cornette, a spokesperson for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, told Military.com. Open source flight tracking data reviewed by Military.com showed the Super Stallion -- which had operated under the call sign Tiger 11 -- flying west toward San Diego when it ceased reporting late Tuesday. Early the next morning, the San Diego Sheriff's Department got a call that the Super Stallion was reported "overdue" at MCAS Miramar. Search and rescue efforts began within hours of notification, and were made difficult by snow and rain in the area, a department spokesperson said. The search effort included elements from the Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Border Patrol, San Diego County Sheriff's Department, and Marine Corps fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft. The wreckage of the Super Stallion was located at 9:08 a.m. local time Wednesday. The five Marines were confirmed deceased the following day. "Their fellow Marines have remained by their side as Marines do and took shifts throughout the night at the mishap site, keeping watch over our fallen despite the hazardous weather conditions," Col. James Ford, operations officer with 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, said Thursday night in a statement to reporters. "Our fellow Marines were and continue to be guarded by their brothers and sisters." The Super Stallion helicopter has been involved in several high-profile and deadly crashes since its introduction to the military in the 1980s. In 2016, two Super Stallions crashed into each other off the coast of Hawaii, killing 12 total service members. Two years later, four Marines from the 3rd MAW were killed when their helicopter crashed in California. Since 2012, the CH-53E Super Stallion has been involved in 16 "Class A" mishaps, according to data provided to Military.com by the Navy Safety Center on Friday, meaning the incident killed or permanently disabled a service member, or that damage to Pentagon property exceeded $2.5 million. The number of Class A incidents involving the CH-53E Super Stallion in the last decade was first reported by Marine Corps Times. Military.com asked the Marine Corps whether it still has confidence in the airframe. "Yes," Capt. Alyssa Myers, a spokesperson for the Marine Corps said. "The CH-53E Super Stallion is a highly capable military aircraft that presents versatility across a range of operations. At this time, our priority is providing support to the families of our fallen Marines. Our deepest condolences go out to the families and friends of all those impacted by this tragedy." Davis, a Kansan, joined the Marines in 2019 and was promoted to lance corporal last month. He earned a Sea Service Deployment ribbon, among other awards. Moulton, who is from Idaho, and Casey, of New Hampshire, commissioned into the Marine Corps in 2019. They were both promoted to captain mid-2023, and each had received the National Defense Service Medal. President Joe Biden said Thursday that he and first lady Jill Biden are "heartbroken at the loss" of the five Marines. "As the Department of Defense continues to assess what occurred, we extend our deepest condolences to their families, their squadron, and the U.S. Marine Corps as we grieve the loss of five of our nation's finest warriors," the statement said. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin offered a similar sentiment and said that, "as the Marine Corps investigates this deadly crash, it is yet another reminder that across our nation and the world our selfless service members put their lives on the line every day to keep our country safe." Related: All 5 Marines Aboard Downed Helicopter in California Were Killed in Crash, Service Says Leonard Glenn Francis, the defense contractor behind the worst bribery and corruption scandal in U.S. Navy history, was supposed to have a new attorney when he showed up to court Thursday, which would have allowed a judge to schedule his long awaited sentencing. Instead, the man known as " Fat Leonard," who was returned to San Diego earlier this year after fleeing house arrest in 2022 and then spending some 15 months in a Venezuelan prison, asked for 60 more days to find a lawyer. The request seemed to frustrate both federal prosecutors and U.S. District Judge Janis Sammartino, who had already given Francis more than a month to find a new lawyer. "We have to move this forward," Assistant U.S. Attorney Fred Sheppard told the judge. Sammartino agreed. "The time has come to ... resolve this matter," she said. She gave Francis another 45 days to find an attorney, telling him that at his next hearing in March, she wants to set a sentencing date. Francis' unsettled attorney situation seems to be a direct result of his flight from justice nearly 18 months ago. A few weeks after he fled the country, one of his defense attorneys asked for his firm to be withdrawn "based on an irreparable breakdown in the attorney-client relationship." That firm, Warren & Burstein, is still representing Francis for the time being but recently renewed its withdrawal request. The Malaysian-born Francis was once a powerful military contractor in southeast Asia. He was arrested in 2013 in San Diego and pleaded guilty in 2015 to federal corruption charges related to his wide-ranging bribery scheme that bilked the U.S. government of at least $35 million. Francis spent years as a cooperating witness for the U.S. government in the continuing investigation and prosecution of the Navy officers he had bribed. In 2018, he was granted pre-sentence release due to his poor health, eventually moving into a luxurious Carmel Valley-area rental home. On Sept. 4, 2022, he cut off his GPS ankle monitor and fled, traveling from Mexico to Cuba to Venezuela while trying to make it to Russia. But he was captured by Interpol in Venezuela, where he then spent about 15 months in custody until he was included in a prisoner swap in December. Last month, when Francis made his first appearance back in a San Diego court in several years, defense attorney Jeremy Warren, who had helped represent Francis for years, indicated his firm still intended to withdraw. "We're not in a position to advocate" for Francis, Warren told the judge at the time. He said he would provide details in a sealed hearing if she needed further explanation of the firm's reasoning. Francis told the judge Thursday that he "wasn't in the right state of mind" during his January hearing because he "had just arrived from Florida." He said that in the time since then, while in custody at the federal jail in downtown, he's had difficulty contacting his family and his attorney in Singapore. That, he said, was why he was requesting 60 additional days. "My case is over a decade old," Francis said, adding that it's a "humongous" case and thus not easy to find a new attorney. Sammartino asked Warren to help facilitate communication between Francis and his attorney in Singapore to ensure he can quickly obtain new local counsel. Sheppard, the prosecutor, objected last month to the judge's decision to let Warren and his firm withdraw from the case. He argued at the time that finding Francis a new defense team would cause a lengthy delay. He made a similar objection Thursday. Prosecutors have still not said whether they will charge Francis with new crimes related to him absconding. Sheppard said last month that the U.S. Attorney's Office is "considering additional charges" potentially contempt of court but would wait to file such charges until after he's sentenced in the bribery and fraud scheme. This story originally appeared in San Diego Union-Tribune. 2024 The San Diego Union-Tribune. Visit sandiegouniontribune.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. The Pentagon has officially extended the deployment of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit and a Navy amphibious ready group headed by the USS Bataan in the Mediterranean Sea amid growing regional turmoil, according to a defense official. The extension was being mulled by the department following a U.S. military buildup late last year aimed at stopping the Israel-Hamas War from spilling over. A Navy spokesperson said Wednesday that Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin directed the ships and Marines to remain in the region. The 26th MEU, a special operations-capable Marine Corps unit, and the Bataan group originally deployed in July to deter Iranian aggression against commercial shipping vessels near the Persian Gulf. Now, after already being extended once before, the units will stay deployed as the Pentagon looks to keep Marines in the region as violence has escalated, with U.S. forces attacked by Iran-backed proxies more than 160 times in the last few months. Read Next: Gen Z, Are You Listening? Super Bowl Eyed by Military Services Amid Recruiting Crisis The defense official told Military.com on Friday that "the Bataan ARG and 26th MEU [have] been extended in the" U.S. European Command area of operations, which includes the Mediterranean. On the far east, the sea also borders the Gaza Strip, Israel, Lebanon and Syria, where violence has spiked since the war began in October. Shortly after the October attack by Hamas on Israel, which plummeted the region into uncertainty for the last four months, the unit cut an exercise in Kuwait short to head to the "waters off of Israel" in an effort to deter Iran-backed militias from taking advantage of the turmoil. Since that time, bases in the region have endured a barrage of attacks. As of last week, bases throughout Iraq and Syria have suffered at least 165 attacks since Oct. 17, leaving at least 80 injured -- a total that doesn't include the deaths and injuries from the attack on an outpost in Jordan in which three service members were killed and more than 40 were injured. Meanwhile, in the Red Sea, Navy ships have been dealing with Houthi-launched drones and missiles since mid-October. To date, the destroyers Gravely, Thomas Hudner, Mason, Laboon and Carney have downed more than 50 drones and around 20 missiles launched into the Red Sea. At least one of those missiles got dangerously close -- within a mile -- to the Gravely. The 26th MEU is part of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, or ARG, a three-ship unit meant to respond to emerging threats around the world; their deployments are typically six to seven months, which means this new extension will keep the unit out longer than usual. Roughly 3,000 Marines and sailors are onboard. "We can confirm that the USS Bataan ARG/MEU remains on station in the Mediterranean Sea at the direction of the secretary of defense," Lt. Cody Keim, a spokesperson for U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, told Military.com on Wednesday. "The U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps are inherently flexible, giving our nation and allies deterrence and defense options to conduct operations whenever and wherever we choose." Military.com reached out to Pentagon officials for confirmation but was told only that there were "no changes to announce on force posture." Keim declined to say how long the unit would remain in the region. When asked whether the families of the Marines and sailors aboard the Bataan ARG have been notified that the deployment has been extended, he said that "once the secretary of defense made the decision, the BAT ARG/MEU crew was notified and official family notifications were made." The 26th MEU is the only special operations-capable Marine Air-Ground Task Force in the fleet and was designated as such -- the first in more than a decade for the Corps -- before it deployed last year. It is capable of conducting port seizures, noncombatant evacuations and embassy support. Military.com previously reported that the Pentagon was considering this extension for the Marines and sailors aboard the Bataan group. Lt. Gen. Karsten Heckl, who heads the Marine Corps' modernization efforts, told Military.com late last month that the unit was then "looking at yet another extension" because of the unprepared state of the Navy's amphibious ship fleet. Heckl said that Marine expeditionary forces have been prevented from deploying on time because the amphibious ships they ride on are not ready to set sail due to a number of factors, including maintenance issues. For example, the USS Boxer, an amphibious warship that will be the heart of the next Marine deployment, has been struggling with maintenance issues for months. The ship spent more than a year at the pier, despite having just completed a two-year overhaul. Then, when it finally did get underway, it belched black smoke outside San Diego harbor. Two weeks ago, Navy officials told Military.com that the ship, which was scheduled to deploy in November, still needs "additional advanced training" before it is fully ready to deploy. Several top Marine leaders have said that these fleet-wide maintenance issues have caused the Corps to miss out on key operations, like the evacuation of Americans in Sudan, over at least the last two years. Now, they appear to be affecting the 26th MEU's ability to get replaced. "When you extend an ARG like that, it has a lot of ramifications, both material-wise and manpower," Heckl said last month after Military.com reported that the extension was being considered. "Material-wise, that ship is now staying underway longer than it had been planned and is probably impacting some maintenance avail[ability] that was scheduled. "And then the manpower -- maintaining good faith and trust with our Marines," he added. "What happens to those Marines that had an end-of-active-service date, and now they're getting essentially involuntarily extended?" In response to accusations of not being prepared to deploy on time, the Navy told Military.com that it was continuing "to maximize readiness and [is] able to fight and prevail when and wherever called upon." Related: Pentagon Weighs Extending USS Bataan and Marine Expeditionary Unit Deployment in Middle East Amid Turmoil A government watchdog will probe how military families and national security were affected by last year's blockade on senior military promotions by Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala. The Government Accountability Office has accepted a request from two Democratic congressmen to review the short- and long-term effects of Tuberville's nearly yearlong hold on general and admiral nominees, GAO spokesperson Chuck Young confirmed Friday. The agency expects the investigation to begin "shortly," Young added. Read Next: Gen Z, Are You Listening? Super Bowl Eyed by Military Services Amid Recruiting Crisis From late February last year to mid-December, Tuberville prevented the Senate from quickly confirming all nominees for general and flag officers using a procedural tactic known as a hold. Tuberville's blockade was an effort to force the Pentagon to reverse its policy of covering travel expenses and providing leave for service members seeking abortions. Eventually, more than 430 military officers were caught in Tuberville's hold, including about half of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Pentagon officials and Democratic lawmakers argued the hold had cascading, harmful effects on the military, including adding stress to military families who could not plan for moves or raises that come with the promotions. Tuberville was unmoved for months by entreaties he was harming the military, arguing Democrats could take individual roll-call votes on each nominee if they were really concerned about readiness. But, as his Republican colleagues grew increasingly publicly frustrated at his actions and signaled they would side with Democrats to circumvent the hold, Tuberville dropped his blockade despite winning no concessions from the Pentagon. Tuberville's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment Friday on the GAO agreeing to review the effects of the hold. The GAO decision, which was first reported by Politico, comes a week after Democratic Reps. Jamie Raskin of Maryland and Robert Garcia of California requested the watchdog investigate. Raskin, the ranking member of the House Oversight Committee, and Garcia, the ranking member of the committee's national security subcommittee, specifically asked the GAO to review what effects Tuberville's hold had on overall military readiness, national security and military families. The lawmakers also asked the GAO to look at any processes the Pentagon uses when military promotions are stalled for indefinite and prolonged periods. "While Sen. Tuberville's holds directly affected hundreds of senior military officials, junior officers indirectly lost the opportunity to rise in rank and gain experience," Raskin and Garcia wrote in their letter to the GAO. "Such career stagnation radiates massive effects on factors such as service member retention, pay, pension and future opportunities." Related: Tuberville Blockade Finally Concludes with Confirmation of 11 Remaining Four-Star Generals and Admirals Boehringer Ingelheim, a leading pharmaceutical firm, has transferred of manufacturing operations of one of its innovative medicines for the treatment of type 2 diabetes to Alpha Pharma in Saudi Arabia. This announcement follows Boehringers 2023 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Investment, focusing on boosting cooperation in pharmaceutical localisation and knowledge transfer to enhance the health of communities in the kingdom. The collaboration with the leading Saudi pharmaceutical manufacturer, Alpha Pharma, aims to combat type 2 diabetes in the kingdom and is fully aligned with the kingdoms Vision 2030 pillars. The announcement was formalised through a signing ceremony that took place in Jeddah with the presence of key representatives from the Ministry of Investment, the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources and National center for Industrial development, the Local Content and Government Procurement Authority, in addition to leadership figures from Alpha Pharma and Boehringer Ingelheim. Patient-centricity As a research-driven company that believes in partnering for success, Boehringer Ingelheims commitment to patient-centricity in Saudi Arabia where it takes a holistic view of the broader therapeutic needs in the field of interconnected cardio-renal-metabolic conditions, including type 2 diabetes. The partnership between Boehringer Ingelheim and Alpha pharma underscores the crucial role of a collaborative approach in improving treatment outcomes for patients and contributing to a healthier community. Waleed Mashak, General Manager and Head of Human Pharma at Boehringer Ingelheim, said: Today marks a momentous occasion for both our company and Alpha Pharma as we stride forward in our journey of improving human health across the kingdom. Aligned with Vision 2030 and Boehringer Ingelhiems objectives, todays announcement reflects our ongoing commitment to drive focused investments towards local manufacturing and bring cutting-edge medications to Saudi patients. Greater impact Mashak added: Transfering the production of our treatment to Saudi Arabia also means integrating Saudi talent further into the pharmaceutical industry, driving greater impact and building on our belief of partnerning for success. Shaikh Yaser Al Naghi, Chairman of Alpha Pharma and Group CEO of Cigalah Healthcare, said: I am proud of the collaboration that Alpha Pharma has established with Boehringer Ingelheim. Localising the manufacturing of an innovative medication by a leading global pharmaceutical firm marks an important milestone in our commimtent to advancing healthcare accessibility in Saudi Arabia. By bringing the type 2 diabetes medication directly to patients in Saudi Arabia, we reinforce our dedication to improving health outcomes in the kingdom. Saleh Al-Khabti, Deputy Minister of Investment Transactions at the Ministry of Investment, said: We are pleased to witness the collabartion between Alpha Pharma and Boehringer Ingelheim, symbolising a journey of self-sufficieny and a more diversified economy in Saudi Arabia. This localisation effort aligns seamlessly with the objectives outlined in Vision 2030, Al-Khabti added: We recognise the vital role of such partnerships in advancing the healthcare sector and fostering continuous transformation within the kingdom. Shared dedication Dr Raed Al-Soweid, Vice President of the National Industrial Development Centre for Drug and Biotechnology Sector at the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, said: The commitment demonstrated by Alpha Pharma and Boehringer Ingelheim underscores the significance of localising healthcare production in the kingdom, contributing to the advancement of technological and pharmaceutical capabilities. This effort signifies a shared dedication to elevating manufacturing standards, ensuring excellence, and adhering to international best practices in the production of essential treatments for our communities. Ashraf Al Qrein, Head of the Medical Devices and Supplies Sector from the Local Content & Government Procurement Authority, said: Todays announcement extends far beyond localised production efforts; it reflects vast potential in empowering the local healthcare ecosystem. By investing in the development of local expertise, we are able to collectively contribute to the long-term growth of the pharmaceutical sector, and more importantly, enhance our ability to meet the unique healthcare needs of the Saudi population.--TradeArabia News Service The Nationals are in agreement with Luis Perdomo on a minor league deal with a Spring Training invite, reports Robert Murray of FanSided (X link). The right-hander returns to the affiliated ranks after spending the 2023 season in Japan. Perdomo, 30, has appeared in parts of six big league campaigns. The bulk of that experience came with the Padres, who carried him as a Rule 5 pick in 2016. Perdomo got a decent amount of run as a starter with San Diego early in his career. He moved to the bullpen by 2019 and turned in the best year of his career, working to an even 4.00 ERA through 72 innings. An elbow injury necessitated Tommy John surgery late in 2020. That marked the end of his time in San Diego, as the Friars released him that offseason. He spent the following year rehabbing before returning to the majors with the Brewers. Perdomo pitched in 14 contests with Milwaukee in 2022, allowing 3.80 earned runs per nine, before signing with NPBs Chiba Lotte Marines last winter. While Perdomos time in Japan was relatively brief, he had a strong season. He made 53 appearances with the Marines and worked to an excellent 2.13 ERA. That was in spite of a modest 19.6% strikeout rate. Perdomo never missed many bats at the MLB level, instead relying on a mid-90s sinker to keep the ball on the ground at a lofty 57.6% clip. Washington has taken a few fliers on non-roster relievers lately. Luke Farrell, Adonis Medina, Stephen Nogosek, Richard Bleier and Robert Gsellman have also inked minor league pacts within the last 10 days. UPDATE: The CopperDog sled dog races have been cancelled for 2024 due to poor trail conditions; a street-party style festival in Calumet will take place instead. Read more here: CopperDog cancels U.P.s last 2024 sled dog races, shifts to street party CALUMET, MICH. -- One of the U.P.s most highly anticipated winter events is the annual CopperDog sled dog race, which returns to historic Calumet in the U.P.s Keweenaw Peninsula in early March. For the second year in a row, this electric, community-focused series of sled dog races is scheduled to be the only major sled dog event in the Upper Peninsula, due to unseasonably warm weather and poor trail conditions canceling Januarys Tahquamenon Country Sled Dog Race, as well as the UP200, Midnight Run and Jack Pine 30 races that had been scheduled for February. RELATED: Rare February warm-up cancels UP200 race, pivots to Festival of the Sled Dog CopperDog kicks off the evening of Friday, March 1 in downtown Calumet with pre-race festivities like music, food, drinks, bonfires, and the opportunity to meet the mushers and their dogs. The event runs through the weekend with four races: the main, 150-mile CopperDog 150, as well as 80-mile, 30-mile and 15-mile races. New at CopperDog this year is the CopperPull, a World Wide Weight Pull Organization-sanctioned weight pull competition to display the strength and power of the race dogs. Visitors ages 4-8 or 9-12 also can participate in the CopperDash, held in conjunction with the CopperPull, which will have dogs race with kids on the sled instead of weights. Note that no dogs or pets of any kind are allowed at race locations, trailside or otherwise, to respect the safety and focus of the sled dogs. Find a schedule of events, learn how to volunteer, and find out more about CopperDog at copperdog.org. A full CopperDog visitors guide is at visitkeweenaw.com. NORTHVILLE TOWNSHIP, MI -- Two men have been arrested and one of them has been charged in connection with an armed robbery and sexual assault that took place last month. According to a release from the Northville Police Department, 29-year-old Javon Anderson of Detroit was arraigned Thursday in 35th District Court in connection with the Jan. 20 assault which took place at a home near Eight Mile Road and Silver Spring Drive in Northville Township. Anderson and the other suspect -- who will be named after he is arraigned in federal court -- are accused of luring a male victim outside before assaulting him and forcing him back inside at gunpoint. After going into the home, Anderson is accused of sexually assaulting a woman in the home while holding the male victim and a 1-year-old child at gunpoint. It appears the suspects and victims had agreed to meet to finalize an online sale prior to the assaults taking place. Anderson was arraigned on 26 felonies, including first-degree criminal sexual conduct, armed robbery, kidnapping, home invasion and more. Bond was set at $500,000 and Anderson is due back in court on Feb. 16. HAMLIN TOWNSHIP, MI - Dune trails, and some Lake Michigan beach areas will remain open for day-use during an otherwise total closure of one of Michigans most popular state parks. Ludington State Park is scheduled to be closed for construction from Sept. 3, 2024, to July 1, 2025. The projects scheduled for that time include repaving the parks main road, expanding the beach and warming shelter parking lots, and repaving the Hamlin Lake parking lot. A portion of the popular Skyline Trail is also scheduled to be rebuilt. Visitors will not be allowed north of the Big Sable River. The dam, footbridge and highway bridge will be closed. RELATED: Ludington State Park to close for construction after Labor Day, stay closed for 10 months That means amenities like the main Lake Michigan beach area, Hamlin Lake day-use area, access to the Big Sable Light via Lighthouse Trail, miles of wooded hiking trails, and all three campgrounds will be closed for 10 months. RELATED: 24 Michigan state park campgrounds with construction closures, delayed openings in 2024 At the same time, parts of the park south of the entry booth and river will remain accessible throughout construction, including the Lake Michigan beach along M-116 and dune trails east of the highway. At times, the amphitheater parking area will be open along with some or all of Skyline Trail. Officials are still working through the design process and have not yet put any of the projects out for bid, said Jim Gallie Ludington State Park manager. Everything is subject to change, he said. The beach and warming shelter parking lot expansion has already been downsized from nearly doubling the current 170 spaces to adding about 105 spaces 75 to the beach lot and 30 to the warming shelter lot, Gallie said. Thats because the expanded footprint was running into dunes. The design process is heavily focused on pedestrian flow from the campgrounds to the beach and lighthouse, he said. There will be trails and walkways in areas where guests are currently walking through parking lots or along the side of a road. A large part of the project will be repaving the main road, which provides access to day-use areas along the river, the campgrounds, and the Hamlin Lake day-use area. The Hamlin Lake day-use parking areas will also be repaved. As for the Skyline Trail, the park has funding to rebuild its western portion. Gallie said the eastern half may remain open during construction, depending on the impact. Paved and boardwalk trails south of the river should also remain accessible, officials said via Facebook. Northern portions of the park could be accessed from Nordhouse Dunes or by boat on Hamlin Lake. These projects represent $4.26 million in upgrades and are part of $250 million in funding from the American Rescue Plan, or ARPA, that was made available to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources in 2022 to help address a long list of needs at state parks. These federal COVID-19 relief funds are part of a $4.8 billion infrastructure package outlined in Gov. Gretchen Whitmers Building Michigan Together Plan. This will wrap up ARPA projects at Ludington State Park, Gallie said. OAKLAND COUNTY, MI A fifth suspect has been charged in the murder-for-hire plot that resulted in the death of a Michigan jeweler during summer 2022, FOX 2 Detroit reports. Dan Hutch Hutchinson, owner of Oak Park Jewelers, was shot to death while riding in a vehicle on June 1, 2022. It is believed that he and his wife were targeted by a group of men who intended to take over his estate. Philip Sumpter, of Ohio, was recently charged in Michigans 45th District Court with one count of conspiracy to murder related to Hutchinsons death, the report said. Other defendants in this case include attorney Marco Bisbikis, believed to be the mastermind; Roy Larry, accused of carrying out the murder; Angelo Raptoplous, accused of being Bisbikis partner; and Darnell Larry, who was an acquaintance of Raptoplous and introduced him to Roy Larry. Darnell Larry accepted a plea deal that involves testifying against the others. The other three are expected to stand trial. ALPENA, MI A man has been convicted for the 2021 murders of two women in Northern Michigan, officials announced. Brynn Bills, 17, of Mio, and Abby Hill, 31, of Alpena, were murdered during summer 2021. On Thursday, an Alpena County jury found Brad Srebnik, 36, of Alpena, guilty of two counts of first-degree murder and other felonies related to the deaths, according to a news release from the Michigan Department of Attorney General. The trial lasted nine days in Michigans 26th Circuit Court. The murders of Brynn Bills and Abby Hill shocked the community, and it is our hope that these convictions may bring some peace and healing to the friends and family of these two young women whose lives were tragically cut short, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel said. Joshua Wirgau, 35, of Alpena, pleaded guilty in November to disinterment and mutilation of a dead body, felony accessory after the fact, and involuntary manslaughter. His plea agreement came with a sentencing request of 15 to 30 years and cooperating with the prosecutions case against Srebnik. Wirgau testified during the second day of the trial. RELATED: Man pleads guilty in deaths of 2 Northern Michigan women, agrees to cooperate Brynn Bills was picked up by Abby Hill in the early morning hours of Aug. 2, 2021. Srebnik murdered her shortly after and with the help of Wirgau and Hill, buried her body in Wirgaus backyard, according to court records. On Sept. 25, 2021, Srebnik, Wirgau and Hill were dropped off in a remote area of Alpena to camp. Srebnik then murdered Hill by gunshot to keep her from revealing information about the murder of Bills. Hills body was discovered there on Oct. 15, 2021. In addition to two counts of first-degree murder, which carries a mandatory life sentence, Srebnik was found guilty of disinterment and mutilation of a dead body for burying Brynn Bills; felony firearm, second offense; and felon in possession of a firearm. With these verdicts, justice has finally been achieved for these young people and they will go a long way in helping these families and this community begin the healing process, Alpena County Prosecuting Attorney Cynthia Muszynski said. Srebniks sentencing date has not been set. OSCODA COUNTY, MI A Michigan attorney is accused of stealing from multiple clients she was hired to represent in court. Michigan State Police in Alpena arrested 46-year-old Michelle Lynne Elowski of Alpena on Feb. 2. She is charged with check fraud (non-sufficient funds $500 or more), common law fraud, embezzlement by an agent or trustee $1,000 or more but less than $20,000 and embezzlement $50,000 or more but less than $100,000. The charges stem from an investigation that began in February 2023. Elowski allegedly embezzled funds entrusted to her by multiple clients which had retained her to represent them in respective divorce, probate, or other civil matters. One of the cases involved an Oscoda County resident, police said. More charges are expected, and the case remains open as more victims are identified. Anyone who believes they may be a victim of fraud or embezzlement by Elowski is asked to contact the MSP Alpena Post 989-354-4101. Elowskis bond was set at $500,000. Her next scheduled court appearance is on Feb. 12. CHEBOYGAN COUNTY, MI -- Police arrested a 24-year-old Rogers City man Wednesday on a charge of criminal sexual conduct second degree person under 13 defendant over 17. Michigan State Police say Trey Aeck was arraigned in 89th District Court following an investigation that began in June 2023. Troopers at the MSP Gaylord post were asked to investigate an alleged sexual assault of a child that occurred earlier in the year. The case was moved to the MSP Sault. Ste. Marie post and the victim was eventually interviewed by police and led to an arrest warrant being issued for Aecks arrest on Feb. 1. Aeck was taken into custody in Traverse City and transported to the Cheboygan County Jail. At the arraignment, bond was set at $50,000 cash surety. Aeck is due back in court on Feb. 15. SAN DIEGO -- The Marine Corps says a Traverse City man was among the five Marines killed this week when their helicopter went down while returning to their base, according to the Associated Press. The deceased Marines have been identified as: Capt. Miguel Nava, 28, of Traverse City, Michigan Lance Cpl. Donovan Davis, 21, of Olathe, Kansas Sgt. Alec Langen, 23, of Chandler, Arizona Capt. Jack Casey, 26, of Dover, New Hampshire Capt. Benjamin Moulton, 27, of Emmett, Idaho The crew was returning to the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego, from Creech Air Force Base in Nevada when the CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter they were flying in went down in the mountains outside San Diego. A historic storm in the area was a contributing factor in the crash. We have been confronted with a tragedy that is every service familys worst fear, said Lt. Col. Nicholas J. Harvey, commanding officer of the squadron. The Flying Tigers family stands strong and includes the friends and community who have supported our squadron during this challenging time. We will get through this together. The crash site was discovered Wednesday and on Thursday the Marine Corps confirmed all five Marines were killed. Col. James C. Ford, operations officer with 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing said it will take weeks to recover their remains as bad weather and rough terrain will make the recovery difficult. As crews work to recover the fallen Marines, other Marines are staying with the remains round-the-clock as part of the Marine Corps code of leave no man behind. The crash remains under investigation. ANN ARBOR, MI - Many Michigan Medicine nurses have mentored Amanda Stricklen throughout her 25-year career at the Ann Arbor health system. The longtime nurse and current clinical information analyst now has four mentors in U.S. Presidents George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton and Lyndon Johnson. Stricklen is among the 2024 Presidential Leadership Scholars, leaders from various fields across the country who travel to Washington and beyond to learn how past presidents led their teams. Stricklens biggest takeaway after the first session Jan. 24 in Washington, D.C. is that presidential decision-making can be like medical decision making -- finding the best solution for the moment. It was such a detailed process (for them), and (they) wanted to hear both sides of the argument in allowing them to make the best possible decision they had at the time to benefit the most people, Stricklen said. Stricklen, 45, grew up in Ann Arbor with a father and other relatives who went to the University of Michigan. She dreamed of going to the nursing school, and she still works in Ann Arbor. I was already working there as a student through my undergrad (as a pharmacy technician), so it was sort of a natural fit, she said, adding one of the nursing units hired her shortly after graduation. Stricklen specialized as a surgical nurse, serving patients after transplants of kidneys, pancreases and livers. The flexibility of the job and the fellow nurses fostering a learning environment inspired her to stay, she said. Theres a strong culture of nurses here, she said. Stricklen transitioned to a research role at Michigan Medicine about 17 years ago. Shes now the program manager for the Michigan Bariatric Surgical Collaborative and the Michigan Surgical Quality Collaborative, which analyze ways to improve clinical outcomes, make patient experiences better and build a network of care providers. This work is showing variation in care and allowing hospitals to learn from others that are doing things well, she said. We disseminate that information so we can all improve together. Stricklen sought out the presidential scholar program as a way to improve her leadership and management skills, she said. The Presidential Leadership Scholars program is run by each of the four presidents centers as a way to bring together bold and principled leaders who are committed to facing critical challenges, both at home and around the world, according to the program website. I felt it was my responsibility to learn and continue education if I was going to stay in this role, she said. Learn some new tips and tricks and new tools for trying to find new strategies for engagement and creating buy-in (to her collaboratives). The lessons break down critical decisions made by presidents, including how to approach decisions through a bipartisan lens and when to be decisive. Maybe we dont take enough time to sort of sit back and always think and make sure we hear from everybody in the room, Stricklen said. But I think its really important to hear from everybody and draw that out of them to make sure you have all the information to make the best possible decision. The initial Jan. 24 session included introductions to the other 59 scholars in this years program, and Stricklen said the perspectives from different industries showed her this program will enhance her skills. What sort of drew me to the program was because it wasnt about getting another degree for me, but it was really about having a strong group of individuals who were committed to being connected and helping each other, she said. The program lasts until June and has five more sessions. The first session also included a private White House tour, she said, though no run-ins with any presidents, including President Joe Biden. Not yet, she said. If you would like more reporting like this delivered free to your inbox, click here and signup for our weekly newsletter: Michigan Schools. Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Ann Arbor daily newsletter. ANN ARBOR, MI - Zingermans Bakehouse has recalled its Black Magic Brownies and triggered a federal warning that potentially life-threatening walnut allergens could be found in some products. The bakery wing of Zingermans, 3711 Plaza Drive in Ann Arbor, reported the recall on Thursday, Feb. 8, and the Food and Drug Administration issued a warning on Friday, Feb. 9, for an undeclared walnut allergen found in the brownies. A customer reported to the bakehouse that they found a walnut in an individually-packaged Zingermans Bakehouse Black Magic Brownie, which do not list walnuts as an ingredient, company official said, adding the individual packages and the brownie 4 Pack are the affected products. The recalled products have sell-by dates of Feb. 11 and Feb. 12. No other products are affected by the recall, a spokesman told MLive/The Ann Arbor News, adding the company is looking into how the walnuts got into the packaging. Zingermans warns customers that those with a walnut allergy run the risk of serious or life-threating allergic reaction is they consume the products. The products were sold at retail stores in southeast Michigan, as well as the companys online ordering website. Customers who recently bought the brownies are encouraged to throw them away or return them to the bakehouse. Concerned persons may contact Zingermans customer service department at 734-761-7255 for any further questions or to receive a refund for the recalled products. Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Ann Arbor daily newsletter. FLINT, MI - Consumers Energy received approval this week to move forward with aggressive new efforts to help low-income customers across Michigan reduce energy use and lower bills, including doubling spending on a program that refurbishes homes for energy-efficient upgrades. One of the focuses of the new plan is helping low-income residents in Flint. The Michigan Public Service Commission approved Consumers Energys nearly $600 million energy efficiency plan, which offers new and growing programs to connect with vulnerable households over the next two years, a news release said. The plan provides benefits for all customers. Since 2009, Consumers Energys energy efficiency programs have saved customers over $5.5 billion on their bills and helped nearly 200,000 low-income customers make their homes and apartments more energy efficient and affordable. Consumers Energy is committed to all of our customers and communities we serve, from the largest manufacturers to households where every dollar matters, said Angela Thompkins, Consumers Energys chief diversity officer and vice president of community affairs. Were excited to deliver new energy solutions that will offer even more savings, focusing on those who traditionally have been underserved. Highlights of the approved plan include continuing a focused effort in Flint that began last year and developing a second effort to increase enrollment in energy efficiency and health and safety programs to serve vulnerable customers in high-need communities. By expanding our outreach and connections with our most vulnerable customers, we believe we can remove barriers to economic success and energy access, Thompkins said. We look forward to communicating more with customers in the months ahead about how we can help make a larger positive impact in their lives. Consumers Energy is Michigans largest energy provider, providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.7 million of the states 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties. GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- Manufacturing has changed. Modern manufacturing is certainly not your grandfathers industry. The nature of the work that I recall relatives doing in the Carolinas involved long hours of manual labor to achieve a task. Technology has changed how we think about technical education and the education of skilled labor. This week, reporter Melissa Frick and photographer Joel Bissell took us inside the Kent Career Technical Center to see high school students using the newly renovated $6 million Manufacturing Hub with state-of-the-art labs for programs including welding, engineering, precision machining and mechatronics. Area teens are getting hands-on training to fill in-demand, high-paying jobs. This week, readers were also interested in reporter Bradley Massmans article about a teacher accused of sexually assaulting a student from 1998 to 2003 when he taught at Northview Public Schools. James Patrick Christians was arraigned on two counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct. Lowell Public Schools placed Christians on administrative leave pending the criminal case. Another story that readers were talking about is reporter Brian McVicars piece on a new restaurant, bar and lounge planned for Gun Lake Casino. The $10 million in improvements also includes a high-limit table games room among a host of interior renovations is expected to start this spring. Reporter Michael Kransz let our readers know that out of 13 people who applied, seven are in the running to become a Grand Rapids Third Ward city commissioner for the remainder of the year. The city is looking to fill the seat vacated by Nathaniel Moody. Take a look at those headlines and others below. Monica Scott is the editor for MLive/The Grand Rapids Press, who previously was a reporter who covered the city, county and schools in the community. New restaurant, game room included in $10M Gun Lake Casino renovation How will our hearts heal? Many lives changed after woman killed in fireworks explosion, mom says Inedible lunches, late buses: Students, parents lobby Grand Rapids school board for changes Here are the 7 applicants for vacant seat on Grand Rapids City Commission Teacher told police he sexually assaulted student during school year, records show Climb stairs to this West Michigan perch for views of 2 lakes, one lighthouse Former teacher accused of sexually assaulting student over 20 years ago Largest indoor golf training center in Michigan opens in Grand Rapids Improvements eyed for Grand Rapids mountain bike park GRAND RAPIDS, MI With nearly half a years head start, former state Rep. David LaGrand, D-Grand Rapids, has raised almost 14 times more funds than his opponent in the race for the Grand Rapids mayors seat. Recently released reports showing campaign contributions through Dec. 31 show LaGrand having raised about $50,536 since declaring his candidacy last May. His opponent, former city commissioner Senita Lenear, has raised about $3,737 through Dec. 31 since declaring her candidacy Nov. 21. Some donations came in prior to her candidacy announcement. The winner will succeed Mayor Rosalynn Bliss, who is term limited and cant seek reelection. Bliss is the citys first female mayor, and shes held the seat since 2016. She has endorsed LaGrand for the seat. With only about a month of fundraising for Lenear and seven months for LaGrand accounted for in the reports, the candidates have opposing views on whether it was fair to compare the total funds raised by their campaigns at this point. And the reports come with plenty of campaign time still left. The deadline to file to run for mayor hasnt yet passed that date is April 23 and if no other candidates file and force an August primary, the election is nine months away on Nov. 5. Lenear highlighted how early it is into the mayoral race as well as timeline difference between her and LaGrand for fundraising. Nonetheless, she said, shes confident in her candidacy and campaign and said money doesnt dictate the winners; the voters do. The filing deadline isnt until April, and were having a conversation about fundraising now. David, quite frankly, got out extremely early, Lenear said. David, quite frankly, has never really stopped running for office since he lost his candidacy for state Senate, and thats just part of the reality: career politicians, thats what they do. And so, none of this is surprising. Im not surprised in the least bit. What I am, though, is confident confident in the plan that we have before us and being able to execute it with integrity and being able to galvanize the people who can cast a vote for me. Lenear was referring to LaGrands close loss to then state Rep. Mark Huizenga, R-Walker, in the November 2022 election for the state Senates 30th District. Related: Former city commissioner Senita Lenear announces run for Grand Rapids mayor LaGrand said the campaign money is only useful in that it allows outreach to voters and the ability to have a shared conversation with them about what they want Grand Rapids to look like in the next decade. With both campaigns having kicked off, LaGrand said its fair to compare the monetary support garnered. She had a launch and she did her best to raise money from people and she got the results she got, right? LaGrand said. I continue to talk to people and people continue to reach out to me, because I have a track record of doing this and a lot of people who share my vision and are willing to support my work, and thats always gratifying and humbling. But it is what it is: the numbers tell a story. Im not going to tell you what that story is; you can read the numbers and draw your own conclusions. Campaign finance reports show Lenear hasnt held a fundraiser and that LaGrand has held five as of Dec. 31. Related: Former state Rep. David LaGrand announces run for Grand Rapids mayor Lenear served two terms on the Grand Rapids City Commission representing the citys Third Ward from January 2014 to December 2022. She was term limited and unable to seek re-election. Including two years as board president, Lenear served on the Grand Rapids Public School Board from 2007 to 2013, when she resigned to pursue a seat on the city commission. She co-owns Genesis Consulting Group, with her husband, Dallas. LaGrand is a former city commissioner, representing the Second Ward from 2007 to 2010 before resigning to pursue an unsuccessful run for the state Senate. He served as Grand Rapids school board member from 2012 to 2015 before he was elected in 2015 to the state House. His term in the state House ended in 2022, when he made a close but unsuccessful run for the state Senate. LaGrand also founded several small businesses and is an owner and manager of Long Road Distillers and other West Michigan businesses. Lenear hasnt had a donation to her campaign above $1,000 from a single person or group, according to the campaign contributions report through Dec. 31. LaGrand has had 14 donations above $1,000 from a single person or group. Among those donations are $5,000 from the Grand Rapids Firefighters Union PAC; $1,900 from retired Democratic politician Steve Pestka; $2,450 from CWD Real Estate Investment managing partner Sam Cummings and $1,000 from both Joan Secchia and businessman Johnny Brann, Jr. Lenear listed her top three priorities as mayor as having more conversations at the neighborhood level and listening to the priorities of those residents and businesses; spurring local business development, including a plan to bolster business and housing growth along the Alpine and Plainfield avenue and 28th Street corridors and elsewhere; and expanding and fully funding the Safe Alliances for Everyone (SAFE) Task Force, which provides grants to grassroots organizations and people for anti-violence strategies in the city. LaGrand said his top three priorities are intertwined. As mayor, he said he would work on issues around policing and justice, housing and homelessness and infrastructure investment and neighborhood support. LaGrand talked about his endorsement from Bliss and said that, as mayor, he would be working to move forward some of the issues she continues to work on. Im really gratified that Rosalynn Bliss is endorsing me, but part of that is because the things that Rosalynn is trying to work on arent going to magically get tied up in a bow when she ends her term, LaGrand said. Im already now trying to work on making sure that theres a good transition and that we can keep the city moving on the things that she is doing great work on. LaGrand didnt highlight what specific issues Bliss has championed that hell continue to move forward on. Lenear said her attention isnt on LaGrand or Bliss but on running her campaign and focusing on the plan she has to lead the city commission. I dont know of a torch (Bliss) was carrying outside of planting trees in the city, Lenear said. And so, as mayor I will be continuing the legacy Ive already established as Ive served out my complete terms as commissioner, and so thats what Ill be focusing on. Im not focused on LaGrand. Im not focused on Bliss. Im focused on Senita for mayor and making sure that the plan that we have in place, to be able to lead that commission into its next chapter thats my focus and thats where Ill spend my time. GRAND RAPIDS, MI A new executive chef has been appointed at MDRD, the upscale, contemporary Spanish restaurant on the 27th floor of the Amway Grand Plaza hotel in downtown Grand Rapids. Erika Brigham, who began her culinary journey in Arizona and most recently served as executive chef of ROAM in Grand Rapids, says she will work to continue pushing the envelope at MDRD and provide patrons with unexpected ways to continue with food and culture. AHC Hospitality, which owns MDRD, Amway Grand Plaza and manages several hotels and restaurants in downtown Grand Rapids, announced Brighams appointment Feb. 8. Opened in February 2021, MDRD provides what its staff describes as modern Spanish cuisine, lavish libations, and an energetic atmosphere with unobstructed views of the Grand River and downtown Grand Rapids. Its menu boasts soup and salads, tapas (small plates), and an assortment of entrees including dry-aged duck breast, marinated black cod, 30-day dry-age bone-in ribeye and more. Adam Tanner, AHCs vice president of food and beverage, said Brigham brings a creative and vibrant culinary vision to MDRD and intertwines innovation with Midwest tradition. Her dynamic leadership and fresh ideas will continue to elevate MDRD as a driving force in Western Michigans fine dining culinary scene, he said. Brigham, a Michigan native, helped launch several new restaurants in Tucson, Arizona with Fox Restaurant Concepts. She also worked at the Grand Rapids-based Gilmore Collection, which owns The B.O.B., Blue Water, Roses, Kirby House and more. As executive chef at MDRD, she plans to offer conceptual tasting dinners, special menus and collaborative events that that create immersive experiences for guests to interact with elevated cuisine, according to a news release. One such planned dinner, according to the release, will be called Running with the Bulls, and will feature an exploration of beef. Another dinner, Flamenco: The Art of Dance, will feature dishes that represent the history and movement of traditional dance. Want more Grand Rapids-area news? Bookmark the local Grand Rapids news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Grand Rapids daily newsletter. More on MLive: 3 takeaways from legal fight between feds, Michigan business over child labor investigation Man sleeping in Dumpster gets emptied into garbage truck, but survives I dont let it affect me: Teen with rare tumor advocates for mental health awareness JACKSON COUNTY, MI More than 150 craft beers are available during the 2024 Southern Michigan Winter Beer Festival next month. Here is that headline and some more you might have missed this week. WARREN, MI Authorities are investigating an electroplating chemical spill that turned a metro Detroit waterway a bright shade of turquoise. The Bear Creek drain in Warren was hit with a flood of plating waste and debris after a water line at Fini-Finish Metal Finishing broke and released more than half a million gallons into the shop and storm sewers on Wednesday, Feb. 7, officials say. About 580,000 gallons were released, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which arrived on site Thursday morning, Feb. 8. The plating shop at 24657 Mount Road is closed and was recently sold. It has been vacant since last summer, say officials. Chemicals remained in drums and plating baths inside. Jason Cashmere, EPA on-scene coordinator, said the exact substance which caused the discoloration in the creek is still being determined. The spill was halted overnight Wednesday. EPA contractors are using vacuum trucks to clean the sewer system. Turbidity curtains and containment boom have been placed in the creek. We are ascertaining our options in Bear Creek to attempt to contain whats currently there, Cashmere said during a brief city press conference Thursday. Warren Mayor Lori Stone said there is no threat to the citys drinking water, which is sourced from the Detroit River via the Great Lakes Water Authority. The public should avoid the creek, she said. We are taking every measure to resolve this, Stone said. Photos of the site obtained via a public records request show blue foam and a petroleum sheen on the creek surface. Creek sediment has also been discolored. Bear Creek drains to the Clinton River and Lake St. Clair via the Red Run drain. The creek runs underground through part of the city. It was hit by a sizable diesel fuel spill in 2019. Calls to Fini-Finish ring a non-working number. Related stories: 3K gallons of oil recovered from truck yard spill Pet food supplier fined over organic death stink President Joe Biden declared that the August 2023 floods in southern Michigan were a major disaster, authorizing federal funds to assist those affected. The Feb. 8 announcement means that federal funds are available to assist individuals and businesses affected by the Aug. 24-26 storms in the following counties: Eaton, Ingham, Iona, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland and Wayne. LINCOLN, NE -- Two of the top wrestling programs hit the mat on Friday night, as the Michigan Wolverines look to build off a monumental win when they face the Nebraska Cornhuskers. Watch college wrestling on FuboTV (7-day free trial) The Wolverines have not been the dominant force that they have in the past, but they have shown some grit in recent weeks. After their 27-9 annihilation at the hands of No. 1 Penn State last month, Michigan has won two of its last three meets, including a big 24-11 win over second-ranked Iowa last Friday. They come into the weekend fifth in the Big Ten, 1.5 meets back of Penn State. Nebraska is on a tear, smacking around the conference competition. Since losing to Iowa on Jan. 12, the Cornhuskers have won five straight contests, winning their last four by double digits, including a 28-0 beating of Illinois last Sunday. The Huskers are 3-1 against ranked opponents, while the Wolverines are 2-3 versus teams in the top-25. The Cornhuskers are 8-4 against the Wolverines, though Michigan won their last meeting two years ago. NCAA Wrestling #9 Michigan Wolverines (6-3, 4-2) vs. #5 Nebraska Cornhuskers (10-1, 5-1) When: Friday, February 9 Time: 7 p.m. ET Where: Devaney Center (Lincoln, Neb.) Channel: Big Ten Network Stream: FuboTV (Free trial), Sling, DirecTV Stream Check out the NCAA Wrestling rankings An opinion piece that you describe, praises or criticizes, on the whole or partly, to cultural or entertainment work. It must be written by an expert on the matter Michael Mann devoted himself from the outset of his career to filming action movies, a genre that not even the most bovine or the supposedly enlightened dare now to underestimate. Masters such as Hawks and Walsh dedicated most of their work to him. In Thief (1981) and Manhunter (1986, the first screen appearance of the brilliant and disturbing Hannibal Lecter), Mann displayed narrative talent and a powerful visual style to tell multifaceted stories. He then produced three masterpieces of adventure, film noir and thriller. Succinctly, of cinema: The Last of the Mohicans (1992), Heat (1995) and The Insider (1999). Collateral and Public Enemies did not reach the same heights, but they were still very attractive movies. Manns films fell naturally into the category of classics. The artistry he demonstrated in those films is enduring, even though he has been disappointing for quite a few years now, making movies where it is hard to discern his powerful stamp. In Ferrari, Mann moves to Italy in the late 1950s to dive into the tormented existence of a man who touched the sky as a racing driver, automobile entrepreneur, director of a legendary racing team, competitor of the all-powerful Agnelli family, and many other things too numerous to list. And probably that gentleman is among the legends for a reason, but Manns portrait of him and his universe is rough, with little power of fascination. It attempts trying to portray the internal volcano of a man who is apparently resolute, a perfectionist, the manager of a big business with bankruptcy issues, as sparing in gestures as in words (the conveniently aged Adam Driver, who plays Enzo Ferrari, doesnt crack a single smile throughout the film), who knows that success is fundamental to his survival and is consequently obsessed by it, trying to reconcile his relationships with his wife, his mistress and the son he had with the latter, while carrying an inconsolable grief for the death of the son he had in wedlock. Adam Driver and Penelope Cruz in 'Ferrari.' But something fails to click, either in the description of the life of such an unsympathetic character, or in the portrayal of his always-tense professional career. Being a complete ignoramus when it comes to cars, I also glean little enjoyment from the thrilling races in which companies and drivers stake so much, including life in the case of those who compete. I am distanced throughout the film from the tortured, intimate world of this complex individual, but the travails and exploits that occur in his professional sphere also fail to excite me. You sense Manns wisdom with the camera, but what he narrates leaves me cold. Driver, an actor who seems to be in every major film project currently being shot in the United States, is conveniently made-up to look 20 years older than he is. His character must be heartbroken and living in a permanent state of anguish, but I felt myself always observing him from a distance. His wife, played with personality by Penelope Cruz, also has a terrible time of it, but I find her more relatable than the dour, introverted Ferrari. You always have to follow in the footsteps of a director as intelligent as Mann, but hopefully hell recover his old magic soon. The wait is becoming a long one. 'Ferrari' Director: Michael Mann. Cast: Adam Driver, Penelope Cruz, Shailene Woodley, Jack O'Connell, Patrick Dempsey. Genre: Drama. United States, 2023. Runtime: 130 minutes. U.S. release date: December 25, 2023. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Financiere des Professionnels Fonds d investissement inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Hess Co. (NYSE:HES Free Report) during the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund acquired 42,147 shares of the oil and gas producers stock, valued at approximately $6,448,000. Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. NBC Securities Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Hess in the third quarter valued at approximately $26,000. KB Financial Partners LLC bought a new stake in shares of Hess in the first quarter valued at about $26,000. Larson Financial Group LLC acquired a new position in shares of Hess during the third quarter worth about $30,000. IMA Wealth Inc. bought a new position in shares of Hess during the second quarter worth about $30,000. Finally, Clear Street Markets LLC acquired a new stake in Hess in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $40,000. 81.72% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Hess alerts: Hess Trading Up 0.7 % Shares of Hess stock traded up $1.07 during midday trading on Thursday, reaching $146.27. The company had a trading volume of 3,046,790 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,545,368. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $142.07 and a 200 day moving average price of $148.47. Hess Co. has a fifty-two week low of $113.82 and a fifty-two week high of $167.75. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.88, a current ratio of 1.05 and a quick ratio of 1.20. The firm has a market cap of $44.93 billion, a PE ratio of 32.50 and a beta of 1.28. Hess Dividend Announcement Hess ( NYSE:HES Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, January 31st. The oil and gas producer reported $1.63 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.43 by $0.20. The business had revenue of $3.04 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.76 billion. Hess had a return on equity of 17.00% and a net margin of 12.98%. The firms revenue was down .6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $1.78 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts anticipate that Hess Co. will post 8.1 earnings per share for the current year. The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, December 29th. Investors of record on Monday, December 18th were paid a dividend of $0.4375 per share. This represents a $1.75 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.20%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, December 15th. Hesss dividend payout ratio is presently 38.89%. Analysts Set New Price Targets Several research analysts recently commented on the stock. StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Hess in a report on Monday. They set a sell rating for the company. Morgan Stanley lowered their target price on Hess from $166.00 to $165.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, October 17th. Argus upgraded shares of Hess from a hold rating to a buy rating and set a $171.00 target price for the company in a research note on Tuesday, November 7th. Citigroup upped their price objective on shares of Hess from $155.00 to $163.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, October 18th. Finally, Raymond James reissued a market perform rating on shares of Hess in a report on Tuesday, October 24th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have given a hold rating and five have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $172.71. Check Out Our Latest Research Report on HES Hess Company Profile (Free Report) Hess Corporation, an exploration and production company, explores, develops, produces, purchases, transports, and sells crude oil, natural gas liquids (NGLs), and natural gas. The company operates in two segments, Exploration and Production, and Midstream. It conducts production operations primarily in the United States, Guyana, the Malaysia/Thailand Joint Development Area, and Malaysia; and exploration activities principally offshore Guyana, the U.S. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Hess Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Hess and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Texas Permanent School Fund Corp lowered its stake in AbbVie Inc. (NYSE:ABBV Free Report) by 1.3% in the third quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 364,621 shares of the companys stock after selling 4,854 shares during the period. AbbVie makes up approximately 0.5% of Texas Permanent School Fund Corps holdings, making the stock its 21st biggest position. Texas Permanent School Fund Corps holdings in AbbVie were worth $54,350,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other large investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Miller Wealth Advisors LLC raised its holdings in AbbVie by 140.0% in the 2nd quarter. Miller Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 240 shares of the companys stock valued at $32,000 after acquiring an additional 140 shares in the last quarter. VitalStone Financial LLC grew its stake in shares of AbbVie by 218.4% in the 2nd quarter. VitalStone Financial LLC now owns 242 shares of the companys stock valued at $33,000 after purchasing an additional 166 shares during the period. Hibernia Wealth Partners LLC bought a new stake in shares of AbbVie in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $36,000. PCA Investment Advisory Services Inc. bought a new stake in shares of AbbVie in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $38,000. Finally, True Wealth Design LLC bought a new stake in shares of AbbVie in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $39,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 67.86% of the companys stock. Get AbbVie alerts: Insider Buying and Selling In other AbbVie news, EVP Nicholas Donoghoe sold 2,912 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, December 26th. The shares were sold at an average price of $154.72, for a total value of $450,544.64. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 55,903 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $8,649,312.16. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. 0.26% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of brokerages have commented on ABBV. UBS Group decreased their price objective on AbbVie from $157.00 to $150.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, October 20th. Raymond James increased their price objective on AbbVie from $181.00 to $189.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Monday. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft began coverage on AbbVie in a research report on Thursday, November 9th. They issued a hold rating and a $150.00 price objective on the stock. Barclays increased their price target on AbbVie from $175.00 to $185.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Monday. Finally, HSBC downgraded AbbVie from a buy rating to a hold rating and cut their price target for the company from $167.00 to $156.00 in a research note on Monday, December 18th. Eight research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, ten have given a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $171.47. View Our Latest Research Report on ABBV AbbVie Price Performance Shares of NYSE ABBV traded down $0.22 during midday trading on Thursday, reaching $174.79. The companys stock had a trading volume of 5,511,822 shares, compared to its average volume of 5,595,910. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 4.59, a quick ratio of 0.84 and a current ratio of 0.96. AbbVie Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $130.96 and a fifty-two week high of $175.91. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $158.60 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $150.79. The company has a market cap of $314.62 billion, a P/E ratio of 64.24, a P/E/G ratio of 2.20 and a beta of 0.57. AbbVie (NYSE:ABBV Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Friday, February 2nd. The company reported $2.79 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.76 by $0.03. AbbVie had a net margin of 8.95% and a return on equity of 154.73%. The firm had revenue of $14.30 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $14.02 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $3.60 earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 5.4% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, analysts forecast that AbbVie Inc. will post 11.15 EPS for the current fiscal year. AbbVie Profile (Free Report) AbbVie Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, and sells pharmaceuticals worldwide. The company offers Humira, a therapy administered as an injection for autoimmune, intestinal Behcet's diseases, and pyoderma gangrenosum; Skyrizi to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic disease, and Crohn's disease; Rinvoq, a JAK inhibitor to treat rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, atopic dermatitis, axial spondyloarthropathy, and ulcerative colitis; Imbruvica for the treatment of adult patients with blood cancers; and Venclexta/Venclyxto to treat hematological malignancies. See Also Receive News & Ratings for AbbVie Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for AbbVie and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Albert Technologies Ltd (LON:ALB Get Free Report)s share price traded up 56.9% on Thursday . The stock traded as high as GBX 8 ($0.10) and last traded at GBX 8 ($0.10). 833,209 shares were traded during trading, an increase of 147% from the average session volume of 337,338 shares. The stock had previously closed at GBX 5.10 ($0.06). Albert Technologies Price Performance The stocks 50 day simple moving average is GBX 8 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is GBX 8. The stock has a market cap of 7.98 million and a P/E ratio of -0.53. Albert Technologies Company Profile (Get Free Report) Albert Technologies Ltd. provides autonomous cross-channel artificial intelligence marketing platform in Israel and internationally. The company offers artificial intelligence-based software to brands and advertising agencies using a Software as a Service (SaaS) model. It develops and deploys algorithmic solutions to provide marketers with a self-driving solution for cross-channel campaign execution, testing, optimization, analysis, and insights. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Albert Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Albert Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Veritas Investment Partners UK Ltd. cut its stake in Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO Free Report) by 24.4% in the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 3,100 shares of the companys stock after selling 1,000 shares during the period. Veritas Investment Partners UK Ltd.s holdings in Altria Group were worth $130,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Capital World Investors boosted its stake in Altria Group by 8.5% in the 2nd quarter. Capital World Investors now owns 96,401,945 shares of the companys stock worth $4,367,008,000 after purchasing an additional 7,546,851 shares during the period. State Street Corp boosted its stake in Altria Group by 1.8% in the 2nd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 70,564,529 shares of the companys stock worth $3,262,710,000 after purchasing an additional 1,240,150 shares during the period. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. boosted its stake in Altria Group by 1.9% in the 3rd quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 44,456,064 shares of the companys stock worth $1,857,271,000 after purchasing an additional 840,559 shares during the period. Geode Capital Management LLC boosted its stake in Altria Group by 3.3% in the 2nd quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 37,025,033 shares of the companys stock worth $1,672,836,000 after purchasing an additional 1,168,982 shares during the period. Finally, Bank of New York Mellon Corp boosted its stake in Altria Group by 5.1% in the 3rd quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 24,517,169 shares of the companys stock worth $990,002,000 after purchasing an additional 1,192,266 shares during the period. 58.94% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Get Altria Group alerts: Altria Group Price Performance Shares of MO stock traded down $0.18 on Thursday, hitting $40.08. The companys stock had a trading volume of 14,616,160 shares, compared to its average volume of 9,529,427. Altria Group, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $39.06 and a fifty-two week high of $48.11. The firms fifty day moving average price is $41.08 and its 200-day moving average price is $42.10. The stock has a market capitalization of $70.89 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 8.75, a P/E/G ratio of 2.44 and a beta of 0.66. Altria Group ( NYSE:MO Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Thursday, February 1st. The company reported $1.18 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.17 by $0.01. Altria Group had a net margin of 33.21% and a negative return on equity of 243.71%. The firm had revenue of $5.02 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.06 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $1.18 EPS. The businesss revenue was down 1.2% on a year-over-year basis. Analysts predict that Altria Group, Inc. will post 5.08 EPS for the current fiscal year. Altria Group announced that its Board of Directors has approved a stock buyback plan on Thursday, February 1st that permits the company to repurchase $1.00 billion in shares. This repurchase authorization permits the company to reacquire up to 1.4% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares repurchase plans are usually a sign that the companys board believes its shares are undervalued. Altria Group Dividend Announcement The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, January 10th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, December 21st were given a dividend of $0.98 per share. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, December 20th. This represents a $3.92 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 9.78%. Altria Groups payout ratio is 85.78%. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of brokerages have issued reports on MO. Jefferies Financial Group lifted their target price on shares of Altria Group from $55.00 to $56.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Friday, October 13th. Citigroup decreased their target price on shares of Altria Group from $46.50 to $45.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, October 18th. StockNews.com raised shares of Altria Group from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Friday, February 2nd. Finally, UBS Group reissued a sell rating and set a $36.10 target price on shares of Altria Group in a research note on Tuesday, January 23rd. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, one has issued a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $47.22. View Our Latest Report on MO Altria Group Profile (Free Report) Altria Group, Inc, through its subsidiaries, manufactures and sells smokeable and oral tobacco products in the United States. The company provides cigarettes primarily under the Marlboro brand; cigars and pipe tobacco principally under the Black & Mild brand; moist smokeless tobacco products and snus products under the Copenhagen, Skoal, Red Seal, and Husky brands; and on! oral nicotine pouches. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Altria Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Altria Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. AptarGroup (NYSE:ATR Get Free Report) posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday. The industrial products company reported $1.21 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.12 by $0.09, RTT News reports. AptarGroup had a return on equity of 13.94% and a net margin of 8.16%. The company had revenue of $838.48 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $842.50 million. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $0.92 earnings per share. The firms quarterly revenue was up 5.3% on a year-over-year basis. AptarGroup updated its Q1 2024 guidance to 1.100-1.180 EPS and its Q1 guidance to $1.10-$1.18 EPS. AptarGroup Price Performance ATR traded up $0.35 during trading on Thursday, reaching $132.15. 619,953 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 338,558. The companys 50-day moving average is $127.54 and its two-hundred day moving average is $125.82. The company has a market cap of $8.69 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 31.46, a P/E/G ratio of 3.70 and a beta of 0.58. The company has a quick ratio of 0.82, a current ratio of 1.22 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.31. AptarGroup has a 12-month low of $107.89 and a 12-month high of $134.84. Get AptarGroup alerts: AptarGroup Announces Dividend The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, February 22nd. Investors of record on Thursday, February 1st will be issued a dividend of $0.41 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, January 31st. This represents a $1.64 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.24%. AptarGroups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 38.95%. Insider Buying and Selling Hedge Funds Weigh In On AptarGroup In other AptarGroup news, Director Monnas Giovanna Kampouri sold 2,387 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, November 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $128.38, for a total value of $306,443.06. Following the sale, the director now owns 11,648 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,495,370.24. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink . In other news, Director Monnas Giovanna Kampouri sold 2,387 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, November 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $128.38, for a total transaction of $306,443.06. Following the transaction, the director now directly owns 11,648 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,495,370.24. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website . Also, insider Marc Prieur sold 3,200 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, December 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $126.24, for a total value of $403,968.00. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 13,828 shares in the company, valued at $1,745,646.72. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . 1.00% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Morgan Stanley grew its position in shares of AptarGroup by 866.4% in the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 3,913,980 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $430,460,000 after buying an additional 3,508,965 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp grew its position in shares of AptarGroup by 5.7% in the 3rd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 3,159,250 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $300,224,000 after buying an additional 171,060 shares during the last quarter. Kayne Anderson Rudnick Investment Management LLC grew its position in shares of AptarGroup by 2.1% in the 1st quarter. Kayne Anderson Rudnick Investment Management LLC now owns 791,070 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $93,497,000 after buying an additional 16,173 shares during the last quarter. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans lifted its stake in shares of AptarGroup by 6.7% in the 1st quarter. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans now owns 649,379 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $76,750,000 after purchasing an additional 41,046 shares during the period. Finally, Norges Bank purchased a new position in shares of AptarGroup in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $59,104,000. 88.61% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Analysts Set New Price Targets Separately, Robert W. Baird raised AptarGroup from a neutral rating to an outperform rating and upped their target price for the stock from $125.00 to $150.00 in a research report on Wednesday, January 3rd. Five analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating, Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Buy and an average price target of $146.25. Get Our Latest Report on ATR About AptarGroup (Get Free Report) AptarGroup, Inc designs and manufactures a range of drug delivery, consumer product dispensing, and active material science solutions and services for the pharmaceutical, beauty, personal care, home care, and food and beverage markets. The company operates through three segments: Aptar Pharma, Aptar Beauty, and Aptar Closures. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for AptarGroup Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for AptarGroup and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Argent Advisors Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF (NYSEARCA:IEMG Free Report) by 3.0% in the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 14,758 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 429 shares during the quarter. Argent Advisors Inc.s holdings in iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF were worth $702,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Tufton Capital Management grew its stake in iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF by 2.3% in the second quarter. Tufton Capital Management now owns 9,347 shares of the companys stock worth $461,000 after purchasing an additional 210 shares during the period. Private Capital Management LLC grew its stake in shares of iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF by 4.1% in the second quarter. Private Capital Management LLC now owns 7,029 shares of the companys stock worth $346,000 after acquiring an additional 280 shares during the last quarter. Zions Bancorporation N.A. grew its stake in shares of iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF by 1.9% in the first quarter. Zions Bancorporation N.A. now owns 15,167 shares of the companys stock worth $843,000 after acquiring an additional 282 shares during the last quarter. Stonebridge Capital Advisors LLC grew its stake in shares of iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF by 8.0% in the first quarter. Stonebridge Capital Advisors LLC now owns 3,826 shares of the companys stock worth $213,000 after acquiring an additional 283 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Farmers & Merchants Investments Inc. grew its stake in shares of iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF by 13.8% in the third quarter. Farmers & Merchants Investments Inc. now owns 2,399 shares of the companys stock worth $114,000 after acquiring an additional 291 shares during the last quarter. Get iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF alerts: iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF Price Performance Shares of iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF stock traded down $0.30 during trading on Thursday, hitting $49.64. 9,847,975 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 11,740,151. iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF has a 1 year low of $45.57 and a 1 year high of $52.30. The business has a 50-day simple moving average of $49.36 and a 200-day simple moving average of $48.88. The stock has a market capitalization of $71.97 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.26 and a beta of 0.75. iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF Profile The iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF (IEMG) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI Emerging Markets IMI index, a market-cap-weighted index of emerging-market firms, covering 99% of market capitalization. IEMG was launched on Oct 18, 2012 and is managed by BlackRock. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding IEMG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF (NYSEARCA:IEMG Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Argent Advisors Inc. lifted its holdings in iShares S&P 500 Value ETF (NYSEARCA:IVE Free Report) by 1.8% in the third quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 6,837 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 119 shares during the quarter. Argent Advisors Inc.s holdings in iShares S&P 500 Value ETF were worth $1,052,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC increased its stake in shares of iShares S&P 500 Value ETF by 106,784.6% in the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 135,983,973 shares of the companys stock valued at $19,727,195,000 after purchasing an additional 135,856,748 shares in the last quarter. Osaic Holdings Inc. increased its stake in shares of iShares S&P 500 Value ETF by 78.0% in the 2nd quarter. Osaic Holdings Inc. now owns 1,869,341 shares of the companys stock valued at $166,345,000 after purchasing an additional 819,001 shares in the last quarter. Lido Advisors LLC increased its stake in shares of iShares S&P 500 Value ETF by 128.8% in the 1st quarter. Lido Advisors LLC now owns 1,178,301 shares of the companys stock valued at $183,485,000 after purchasing an additional 663,252 shares in the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. purchased a new position in shares of iShares S&P 500 Value ETF in the 3rd quarter valued at about $93,051,000. Finally, The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company boosted its holdings in iShares S&P 500 Value ETF by 22,055.7% in the 2nd quarter. The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company now owns 460,838 shares of the companys stock worth $74,282,000 after buying an additional 458,758 shares during the last quarter. Get iShares S&P 500 Value ETF alerts: iShares S&P 500 Value ETF Price Performance IVE stock traded down $0.03 during trading on Thursday, hitting $175.61. The stock had a trading volume of 474,520 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,670,616. iShares S&P 500 Value ETF has a twelve month low of $142.56 and a twelve month high of $176.34. The stock has a market capitalization of $27.76 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.85 and a beta of 0.94. The companys 50-day moving average price is $172.39 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $163.61. iShares S&P 500 Value ETF Company Profile iShares S&P 500 Value ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares S&P 500 Value Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the S&P 500 Value Index (the Index). The Index measures the performance of the large-capitalization value sector of the United States equity market and consists of those stocks in the S&P 500 exhibiting the strongest value characteristics. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding IVE? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares S&P 500 Value ETF (NYSEARCA:IVE Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares S&P 500 Value ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares S&P 500 Value ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of Armstrong World Industries, Inc. (NYSE:AWI Get Free Report) reached a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Wednesday . The company traded as high as $103.46 and last traded at $103.21, with a volume of 123140 shares. The stock had previously closed at $100.78. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several equities research analysts have weighed in on AWI shares. Truist Financial boosted their price objective on Armstrong World Industries from $90.00 to $95.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 25th. StockNews.com cut Armstrong World Industries from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, February 2nd. Finally, UBS Group raised Armstrong World Industries from a sell rating to a neutral rating and boosted their price objective for the stock from $75.00 to $103.00 in a research note on Thursday, January 4th. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $88.57. Get Armstrong World Industries alerts: Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on AWI Armstrong World Industries Stock Performance Insider Activity at Armstrong World Industries The stock has a market cap of $4.63 billion, a P/E ratio of 20.89, a PEG ratio of 2.02 and a beta of 1.09. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $97.77 and a 200 day moving average price of $83.45. The company has a quick ratio of 1.31, a current ratio of 1.88 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.07. In related news, CEO Victor Grizzle sold 22,914 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, December 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $99.02, for a total value of $2,268,944.28. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 332,435 shares in the company, valued at $32,917,713.70. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. 1.09% of the stock is owned by company insiders. Institutional Trading of Armstrong World Industries A number of large investors have recently modified their holdings of AWI. Capital International Sarl boosted its position in Armstrong World Industries by 20.1% during the 2nd quarter. Capital International Sarl now owns 41,809 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $3,071,000 after acquiring an additional 7,002 shares in the last quarter. Tudor Investment Corp Et Al bought a new stake in Armstrong World Industries during the 2nd quarter valued at $5,408,000. Howe & Rusling Inc. boosted its position in Armstrong World Industries by 4.0% during the 2nd quarter. Howe & Rusling Inc. now owns 3,515 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $258,000 after acquiring an additional 136 shares in the last quarter. Intrepid Capital Management Inc. boosted its position in Armstrong World Industries by 34.7% during the 2nd quarter. Intrepid Capital Management Inc. now owns 28,686 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $2,107,000 after acquiring an additional 7,382 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank boosted its position in Armstrong World Industries by 23.0% during the 3rd quarter. Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank now owns 7,397 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $533,000 after acquiring an additional 1,385 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 98.93% of the companys stock. Armstrong World Industries Company Profile (Get Free Report) Armstrong World Industries, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, designs, manufactures, and sells ceiling and wall systems in the United States, Canada, and Latin America. It operates through Mineral Fiber and Architectural Specialties segments. The company offers suspended mineral fiber, soft fiber, fiberglass wool, and metal ceiling systems, as well as wood, wood fiber, glass-reinforced-gypsum, and felt ceiling and wall products; ceiling component products, such as ceiling perimeters and trims, as well as grid products that support drywall ceiling systems; ceilings and walls for use in commercial settings; and facade and partition products. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Armstrong World Industries Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Armstrong World Industries and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry urged calm in a public address early Thursday following three days of violent protests that have paralyzed the country as thousands of protesters demand his resignation. The brief speech in the pre-dawn hours did little to appease people who are angry and frustrated over unrelenting gang violence, deepening poverty and the lack of any plan in sight for general elections. I think the time has arrived for all to put our heads together to save Haiti, to do things another way in our country, Henry said without offering specifics. He urged Haitians not to look at the government or at Haitis National Police as their adversaries. Those who choose violence, destruction and killing people to take power are not working in the interests of the Haitian people, he said. Haitis legislature is currently empty, after the terms of its last 10 senators expired in January 2023. The country failed to hold planned elections in 2019 and 2023, and Henry assumed power with the support of the international community following the July 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moise. Henrys comments come as thousands of Haitians gathered daily this week in cities and towns across the country to demand that the prime minister step down, saying they will keep protesting until he leaves. Protesters have used tree branches, dilapidated cars and burning tires to block roads as some crowds attacked businesses and government buildings, leading to clashes with police who have fired tear gas and live bullets. The demonstrations have forced at least 1,000 schools across Haiti to temporarily close, as well as banks, government agencies and private businesses. Critical humanitarian aid also dwindled amid the chaos, and food prices spiked by more than 20% in some areas as a result of the ongoing blockades, according to a report from the U.N.s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. On Wednesday, police killed five armed environmental protection agents in the capital of Port-au-Prince in a shooting some worry could worsen Haitis crisis. Lionel Lazarre, head of a police union known as Synapoha, told The Associated Press that the shooting between police and agents with Haitis Security Brigade for Protected Areas occurred in the Laboule community. He claimed that the environmental agents opened fire after police asked them to drop their weapons, prompting officers to shoot. Clashes between the environmental protection agents and police have erupted since January, leading Henry to announce a restructuring of the environmental agency and the dismissal of its chief. On Thursday, former rebel leader Guy Philippe, who made a surprise appearance in Port-au-Prince earlier this week, criticized the international community for backing Henry and urged environmental protection agents to take a stand and seize control of the regions where they work. He called on the agents, as well as the police and army, to neutralize anyone who supports Henrys government. This is the only way we are going to show them that we are not playing, he said in an interview Thursday with Radio Caraibes. We have to get ready to attack them. In a statement on Thursday, Haitis Office of Citizen Protection condemned the killings of the environmental agents and called for an independent commission to investigate the incident. It also said three journalists in the southern coastal city of Jeremie were injured by bullets while covering protests and accused police of seizing reporters equipment in the northern coastal city of Cap-Haitien, calling the incidents serious attacks on press freedom. In his speech, Henry said Haitians need peace, security, work and the ability to move freely around the country. Haitian people need for their children to go to school without fear, because thats whats going to guarantee them a future, he said. Hours after his speech, the streets in Port-au-Prince and surrounding areas remained calm through late Thursday afternoon. Henry once again pledged to hold general elections as soon as Haitis insecurity issues are resolved, saying he would continue to reach out and work with all those who want the country to move forward, to take decisions together that are going to help us emerge from the crisis. He also congratulated police for their efforts in fighting gangs and promised he would keep pushing for the U.N.-backed deployment of a Kenyan police force that is currently blocked by a court order. I want to reassure everyone the government will do whatever it can for the mission to come as fast as possible, he said. Henry also extended his sympathies to all those who have died in the violent protests this week. I give you assurance that the Haitian people will have peace and development with prosperity, Henry said, without providing details. Together, hand-in-hand, we will change our destiny. Haitians said they wanted Henry to step down by Feb. 7, the date Haitian leaders are typically sworn into office. The date also carries deep historical significance in Haiti: On that date in 1986, former dictator Jean-Claude Duvalier fled for France, and in 1991, Jean-Bertrand Aristide, Haitis first democratically-elected president, was sworn in. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Banco Macro S.A. (NYSE:BMA Get Free Report) crossed above its 200-day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of $24.48 and traded as high as $33.37. Banco Macro shares last traded at $32.42, with a volume of 233,490 shares trading hands. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Separately, StockNews.com raised shares of Banco Macro from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, November 30th. Get Banco Macro alerts: View Our Latest Stock Analysis on BMA Banco Macro Price Performance The business has a 50 day moving average of $28.79 and a two-hundred day moving average of $24.56. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.15, a quick ratio of 0.73 and a current ratio of 0.88. Banco Macro (NYSE:BMA Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 22nd. The bank reported $0.33 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.32 by ($0.99). Banco Macro had a return on equity of 12.38% and a net margin of 5.44%. The firm had revenue of $2.20 billion during the quarter. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $0.94 earnings per share. As a group, equities analysts forecast that Banco Macro S.A. will post 8.61 EPS for the current fiscal year. Banco Macro Increases Dividend The firm also recently declared a dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, January 16th. Shareholders of record on Monday, January 8th were paid a $0.5958 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, January 5th. This is a boost from Banco Macros previous dividend of $0.45. Banco Macros dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 50.63%. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Banco Macro Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership increased its stake in Banco Macro by 1.2% during the 4th quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 367,720 shares of the banks stock valued at $6,038,000 after purchasing an additional 4,369 shares in the last quarter. Morgan Stanley increased its position in shares of Banco Macro by 147.0% in the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 336,389 shares of the banks stock valued at $5,524,000 after acquiring an additional 200,175 shares during the period. Eaton Vance Management purchased a new position in Banco Macro in the 1st quarter worth $3,724,000. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. raised its stake in Banco Macro by 54.3% in the 4th quarter. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. now owns 208,944 shares of the banks stock worth $5,997,000 after acquiring an additional 73,524 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Verition Fund Management LLC acquired a new stake in Banco Macro during the 1st quarter worth about $2,595,000. About Banco Macro (Get Free Report) Banco Macro SA provides various banking products and services to retail and corporate customers in Argentina. It offers various retail banking products and services, such as savings and checking accounts, time deposits, credit and debit cards, consumer finance loans, mortgage loans, automobile loans, overdrafts, credit-related services, home and car insurance coverage, tax collection, utility payments, automated teller machines (ATMs), and money transfers. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Banco Macro Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Banco Macro and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Lazard Freres Gestion S.A.S. lessened its holdings in Becton, Dickinson and Company (NYSE:BDX Free Report) by 0.2% during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 538,398 shares of the medical instruments suppliers stock after selling 1,250 shares during the period. Becton, Dickinson and Company comprises approximately 4.4% of Lazard Freres Gestion S.A.S.s holdings, making the stock its 7th biggest holding. Lazard Freres Gestion S.A.S. owned about 0.19% of Becton, Dickinson and Company worth $137,401,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. A number of other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the business. Householder Group Estate & Retirement Specialist LLC acquired a new position in Becton, Dickinson and Company during the 3rd quarter worth $25,000. McClarren Financial Advisors Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Becton, Dickinson and Company by 4,900.0% in the 2nd quarter. McClarren Financial Advisors Inc. now owns 100 shares of the medical instruments suppliers stock valued at $26,000 after buying an additional 98 shares during the period. Indiana Trust & Investment Management CO acquired a new position in shares of Becton, Dickinson and Company in the 3rd quarter valued at about $27,000. OFI Invest Asset Management acquired a new position in shares of Becton, Dickinson and Company in the 3rd quarter valued at about $25,000. Finally, OLD Point Trust & Financial Services N A acquired a new position in shares of Becton, Dickinson and Company in the 2nd quarter valued at about $36,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 86.72% of the companys stock. Get Becton Dickinson and Company alerts: Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several research analysts have recently commented on the stock. Barclays lifted their price target on shares of Becton, Dickinson and Company from $301.00 to $305.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Monday. Piper Sandler dropped their price target on shares of Becton, Dickinson and Company from $305.00 to $280.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, November 10th. Morgan Stanley dropped their price target on shares of Becton, Dickinson and Company from $310.00 to $280.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, December 4th. TheStreet downgraded shares of Becton, Dickinson and Company from a b rating to a c+ rating in a research report on Thursday, November 9th. Finally, Raymond James boosted their price target on shares of Becton, Dickinson and Company from $269.00 to $275.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, January 3rd. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $279.17. Insider Buying and Selling at Becton, Dickinson and Company In other news, EVP Richard Byrd sold 2,156 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Tuesday, November 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $238.47, for a total value of $514,141.32. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 4,120 shares in the company, valued at $982,496.40. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. Corporate insiders own 0.31% of the companys stock. Becton, Dickinson and Company Stock Up 1.3 % BDX traded up $3.04 on Friday, reaching $243.75. 2,058,106 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,591,661. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $238.58 and its 200-day moving average price is $254.10. Becton, Dickinson and Company has a 52-week low of $228.62 and a 52-week high of $287.32. The company has a market cap of $70.42 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 57.04, a PEG ratio of 1.98 and a beta of 0.43. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.56, a current ratio of 1.08 and a quick ratio of 0.64. Becton, Dickinson and Company (NYSE:BDX Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 1st. The medical instruments supplier reported $2.68 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.39 by $0.29. The firm had revenue of $4.71 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.73 billion. Becton, Dickinson and Company had a net margin of 6.44% and a return on equity of 13.57%. The firms revenue was up 2.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $2.98 earnings per share. On average, sell-side analysts expect that Becton, Dickinson and Company will post 12.94 EPS for the current fiscal year. Becton, Dickinson and Company Dividend Announcement The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 29th. Shareholders of record on Friday, March 8th will be paid a $0.95 dividend. This represents a $3.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.56%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, March 7th. Becton, Dickinson and Companys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 90.05%. Becton, Dickinson and Company Profile (Free Report) Becton, Dickinson and Company develops, manufactures, and sells medical supplies, devices, laboratory equipment, and diagnostic products for healthcare institutions, physicians, life science researchers, clinical laboratories, pharmaceutical industry, and the general public worldwide. The company operates in three segments: BD Medical, BD Life Sciences, and BD Interventional. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BDX? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Becton, Dickinson and Company (NYSE:BDX Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Becton Dickinson and Company Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Becton Dickinson and Company and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Hamilton Point Investment Advisors LLC lowered its holdings in Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (NYSE:BR Free Report) by 47.6% in the third quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm owned 22,073 shares of the business services providers stock after selling 20,054 shares during the period. Hamilton Point Investment Advisors LLCs holdings in Broadridge Financial Solutions were worth $3,970,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in BR. Bradley Foster & Sargent Inc. CT lifted its position in Broadridge Financial Solutions by 2.1% in the second quarter. Bradley Foster & Sargent Inc. CT now owns 2,945 shares of the business services providers stock worth $488,000 after purchasing an additional 60 shares during the period. Oregon Public Employees Retirement Fund lifted its position in Broadridge Financial Solutions by 0.7% in the second quarter. Oregon Public Employees Retirement Fund now owns 9,137 shares of the business services providers stock worth $1,513,000 after purchasing an additional 63 shares during the period. Larson Financial Group LLC lifted its position in Broadridge Financial Solutions by 56.4% in the second quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC now owns 183 shares of the business services providers stock worth $30,000 after purchasing an additional 66 shares during the period. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. lifted its position in Broadridge Financial Solutions by 0.6% in the third quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. now owns 11,633 shares of the business services providers stock worth $2,083,000 after purchasing an additional 69 shares during the period. Finally, Ballentine Partners LLC lifted its position in Broadridge Financial Solutions by 5.5% in the second quarter. Ballentine Partners LLC now owns 1,459 shares of the business services providers stock worth $242,000 after purchasing an additional 76 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 89.36% of the companys stock. Get Broadridge Financial Solutions alerts: Broadridge Financial Solutions Stock Down 0.0 % NYSE:BR traded down $0.02 during trading hours on Friday, hitting $198.98. 622,480 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 594,989. Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $133.97 and a fifty-two week high of $210.24. The company has a current ratio of 1.40, a quick ratio of 1.40 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.77. The firm has a market cap of $23.43 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 34.76 and a beta of 1.01. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $199.96 and a 200 day moving average price of $186.75. Analysts Set New Price Targets Broadridge Financial Solutions ( NYSE:BR Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 1st. The business services provider reported $0.92 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.89 by $0.03. The firm had revenue of $1.41 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.40 billion. Broadridge Financial Solutions had a net margin of 10.82% and a return on equity of 41.12%. Broadridge Financial Solutionss revenue for the quarter was up 8.7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $0.91 earnings per share. Equities research analysts anticipate that Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. will post 7.7 earnings per share for the current year. A number of equities research analysts have weighed in on the company. Wolfe Research upgraded Broadridge Financial Solutions from an underperform rating to a peer perform rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 17th. Royal Bank of Canada increased their price objective on Broadridge Financial Solutions from $212.00 to $239.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, February 2nd. Raymond James increased their price objective on Broadridge Financial Solutions from $205.00 to $214.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, February 2nd. Morgan Stanley increased their price objective on Broadridge Financial Solutions from $175.00 to $180.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Friday, December 8th. Finally, Evercore ISI increased their price objective on Broadridge Financial Solutions from $226.00 to $230.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, December 5th. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $203.17. Read Our Latest Analysis on Broadridge Financial Solutions Insider Buying and Selling at Broadridge Financial Solutions In related news, VP Laura Matlin sold 4,090 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, December 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $189.49, for a total value of $775,014.10. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now owns 6,481 shares in the company, valued at $1,228,084.69. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. In other news, VP Laura Matlin sold 4,090 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, December 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $189.49, for a total value of $775,014.10. Following the transaction, the vice president now directly owns 6,481 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,228,084.69. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, insider Douglas Richard Deschutter sold 22,722 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Tuesday, February 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $199.00, for a total value of $4,521,678.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now directly owns 44,680 shares in the company, valued at approximately $8,891,320. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 41,246 shares of company stock worth $8,211,616 over the last ninety days. Company insiders own 1.60% of the companys stock. Broadridge Financial Solutions Company Profile (Free Report) Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc provides investor communications and technology-driven solutions for the financial services industry. The company's Investor Communication Solutions segment processes and distributes proxy materials to investors in equity securities and mutual funds, as well as facilitates related vote processing services; and distributes regulatory reports, class action, and corporate action/reorganization event information, as well as tax reporting solutions. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BR? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (NYSE:BR Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Broadridge Financial Solutions Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Broadridge Financial Solutions and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Carlisle Companies (NYSE:CSL Get Free Report) released its earnings results on Monday. The conglomerate reported $4.17 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $3.47 by $0.70, Briefing.com reports. Carlisle Companies had a net margin of 15.07% and a return on equity of 27.90%. The firm had revenue of $1.13 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.09 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $3.92 EPS. The companys revenue was down 1.9% compared to the same quarter last year. Carlisle Companies Price Performance Shares of Carlisle Companies stock traded up $0.77 on Thursday, hitting $342.68. 446,876 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 265,647. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $308.40 and its 200 day simple moving average is $280.84. The company has a current ratio of 4.18, a quick ratio of 3.73 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.78. The company has a market cap of $16.68 billion, a P/E ratio of 22.49, a P/E/G ratio of 1.21 and a beta of 0.92. Carlisle Companies has a 12-month low of $203.65 and a 12-month high of $350.00. Get Carlisle Companies alerts: Carlisle Companies Announces Dividend The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 1st. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 16th will be given a dividend of $0.85 per share. This represents a $3.40 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.99%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, February 15th. Carlisle Companiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 22.31%. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of research analysts have recently weighed in on the stock. Robert W. Baird increased their target price on shares of Carlisle Companies from $350.00 to $354.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, January 17th. StockNews.com raised shares of Carlisle Companies from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, one has issued a hold rating and six have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, Carlisle Companies presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $312.00. Read Our Latest Report on CSL Institutional Trading of Carlisle Companies Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Coppell Advisory Solutions Corp. purchased a new position in Carlisle Companies in the 4th quarter worth $29,000. Artemis Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in Carlisle Companies in the 2nd quarter worth $42,000. UniSuper Management Pty Ltd purchased a new position in Carlisle Companies in the 2nd quarter worth $103,000. State of Wyoming raised its position in Carlisle Companies by 20.8% in the 2nd quarter. State of Wyoming now owns 470 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $121,000 after purchasing an additional 81 shares during the period. Finally, Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership purchased a new position in Carlisle Companies in the 4th quarter worth $200,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 90.70% of the companys stock. Carlisle Companies Company Profile (Get Free Report) Carlisle Companies Incorporated operates as a manufacturer of engineered products in the United States, Europe, Asia, Mexico, the United Kingdom, and internationally. It operates through four segments: Carlisle Construction Materials, Carlisle Weatherproofing Technologies, Carlisle Interconnect Technologies, and Carlisle Fluid Technologies. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Carlisle Companies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Carlisle Companies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Mutual of America Capital Management LLC trimmed its position in shares of Chevron Co. (NYSE:CVX Free Report) by 1.1% in the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 248,284 shares of the oil and gas companys stock after selling 2,685 shares during the period. Chevron makes up 0.5% of Mutual of America Capital Management LLCs portfolio, making the stock its 22nd biggest position. Mutual of America Capital Management LLCs holdings in Chevron were worth $41,866,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. V Wealth Advisors LLC raised its holdings in shares of Chevron by 0.9% in the second quarter. V Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 7,007 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $1,102,000 after purchasing an additional 62 shares during the last quarter. Addison Capital Co raised its stake in Chevron by 1.9% during the second quarter. Addison Capital Co now owns 3,339 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $525,000 after acquiring an additional 63 shares in the last quarter. NCM Capital Management LLC raised its stake in Chevron by 1.2% during the first quarter. NCM Capital Management LLC now owns 5,570 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $909,000 after acquiring an additional 65 shares in the last quarter. Sweet Financial Partners LLC increased its stake in shares of Chevron by 0.7% in the third quarter. Sweet Financial Partners LLC now owns 8,761 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $1,477,000 after buying an additional 65 shares during the period. Finally, Strategic Investment Advisors MI boosted its holdings in Chevron by 3.8% in the third quarter. Strategic Investment Advisors MI now owns 1,758 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $296,000 after acquiring an additional 65 shares during the last quarter. 68.87% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Chevron alerts: Chevron Trading Up 1.3 % Shares of Chevron stock traded up $1.93 on Thursday, reaching $154.06. The company had a trading volume of 9,201,832 shares, compared to its average volume of 9,177,550. The firm has a market cap of $290.83 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.56, a P/E/G ratio of 0.82 and a beta of 1.13. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.12, a current ratio of 1.25 and a quick ratio of 0.97. The firms 50-day moving average price is $147.54 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $154.65. Chevron Co. has a 1 year low of $139.62 and a 1 year high of $173.51. Chevron Increases Dividend Chevron ( NYSE:CVX Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Friday, February 2nd. The oil and gas company reported $3.45 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $3.19 by $0.26. Chevron had a return on equity of 15.24% and a net margin of 10.63%. The firm had revenue of $47.18 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $50.93 billion. During the same period last year, the company earned $4.09 EPS. Chevrons quarterly revenue was down 16.5% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, research analysts predict that Chevron Co. will post 13.03 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, March 11th. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 16th will be given a $1.63 dividend. This represents a $6.52 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.23%. This is a positive change from Chevrons previous quarterly dividend of $1.51. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, February 15th. Chevrons payout ratio is presently 53.17%. Analysts Set New Price Targets CVX has been the topic of a number of recent research reports. Morgan Stanley cut their target price on Chevron from $203.00 to $201.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, October 17th. BNP Paribas raised Chevron from a neutral rating to an outperform rating and set a $190.00 target price for the company in a research report on Thursday, October 12th. Bank of America upgraded Chevron from a neutral rating to a buy rating and increased their price target for the stock from $190.00 to $200.00 in a research note on Monday, October 30th. UBS Group cut their price target on Chevron from $194.00 to $185.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, December 14th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada raised their target price on Chevron from $185.00 to $190.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Monday. Seven investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Chevron currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $180.95. Check Out Our Latest Report on CVX Chevron Company Profile (Free Report) Chevron Corporation, through its subsidiaries, engages in the integrated energy and chemicals operations in the United States and internationally. The company operates in two segments, Upstream and Downstream. The Upstream segment is involved in the exploration, development, production, and transportation of crude oil and natural gas; liquefaction, transportation, and regasification associated with liquefied natural gas; transportation of crude oil through pipelines; and processing, transportation, storage, and marketing of natural gas, as well as a gas-to-liquids plant. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CVX? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Chevron Co. (NYSE:CVX Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Chevron Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Chevron and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of China Everbright Environment Group Limited (OTCMKTS:CHFFF Get Free Report) hit a new 52-week high on Friday . The company traded as high as $0.37 and last traded at $0.37, with a volume of 26000 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $0.34. China Everbright Environment Group Stock Up 9.5 % The firms 50-day moving average is $0.34 and its 200 day moving average is $0.35. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.09, a current ratio of 1.14 and a quick ratio of 1.11. About China Everbright Environment Group (Get Free Report) China Everbright Environment Group Limited provides environmental solutions worldwide. The company's Environmental Energy Project Construction and Operation segment constructs and operates food and kitchen waste treatment, leachate treatment, sludge treatment and disposal, methane-to-energy, fecal treatment, fly ash landfill, medical waste treatment, and solid waste treatment projects, as well as waste-to-energy plants. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for China Everbright Environment Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for China Everbright Environment Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. China Gerui Advanced Materials Group Ltd. (OTCMKTS:CHOPF Get Free Report)s share price passed above its two hundred day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a two hundred day moving average of $0.00 and traded as high as $0.00. China Gerui Advanced Materials Group shares last traded at $0.00, with a volume of 100 shares changing hands. China Gerui Advanced Materials Group Stock Performance China Gerui Advanced Materials Group Company Profile (Get Free Report) China Gerui Advanced Materials Group Ltd. is a holding company which engages in the steel processing business. It process ultra-thin, cold-rolled steel for narrow strip steel products. The company sells its products to domestic Chinese customers in a diverse range of industries, including the food packaging, electrical appliances and the construction materials industries. See Also Receive News & Ratings for China Gerui Advanced Materials Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for China Gerui Advanced Materials Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE:CMG Get Free Report) posted its earnings results on Monday. The restaurant operator reported $10.36 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $9.73 by $0.63, Briefing.com reports. Chipotle Mexican Grill had a return on equity of 45.84% and a net margin of 12.45%. The company had revenue of $2.52 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.49 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $8.29 earnings per share. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 15.4% on a year-over-year basis. Chipotle Mexican Grill Stock Performance Chipotle Mexican Grill stock traded down $46.51 during mid-day trading on Thursday, reaching $2,620.48. 386,636 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 250,434. The business has a fifty day moving average of $2,318.38 and a 200 day moving average of $2,076.50. The firm has a market cap of $71.91 billion, a P/E ratio of 59.09, a PEG ratio of 1.83 and a beta of 1.29. Chipotle Mexican Grill has a 12-month low of $1,470.05 and a 12-month high of $2,725.83. Get Chipotle Mexican Grill alerts: Insiders Place Their Bets In other Chipotle Mexican Grill news, CEO Brian R. Niccol sold 1,996 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, January 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $2,399.91, for a total transaction of $4,790,220.36. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 22,447 shares in the company, valued at $53,870,779.77. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. In other news, CEO Brian R. Niccol sold 1,996 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, January 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $2,399.91, for a total transaction of $4,790,220.36. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 22,447 shares in the company, valued at approximately $53,870,779.77. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, CEO Brian R. Niccol sold 1,100 shares of the stock in a transaction on Tuesday, January 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $2,278.45, for a total value of $2,506,295.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 22,447 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $51,144,367.15. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 4,189 shares of company stock worth $9,700,908 over the last 90 days. Company insiders own 0.96% of the companys stock. Institutional Trading of Chipotle Mexican Grill Analyst Ratings Changes Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Panagora Asset Management Inc. increased its position in shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill by 79.5% in the 1st quarter. Panagora Asset Management Inc. now owns 948 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $1,500,000 after acquiring an additional 420 shares during the period. Cibc World Market Inc. increased its position in shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill by 15.5% in the 1st quarter. Cibc World Market Inc. now owns 171 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $271,000 after acquiring an additional 23 shares during the period. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board increased its position in shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill by 7.3% in the 1st quarter. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board now owns 3,032 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $4,796,000 after acquiring an additional 205 shares during the period. Cetera Investment Advisers increased its position in shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill by 6.1% in the 1st quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 777 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $1,229,000 after acquiring an additional 45 shares during the period. Finally, Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC increased its position in shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill by 38.9% in the 1st quarter. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC now owns 218 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $345,000 after acquiring an additional 61 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 91.19% of the companys stock. CMG has been the topic of several analyst reports. Piper Sandler boosted their price objective on Chipotle Mexican Grill from $1,930.00 to $2,226.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 16th. Wedbush reissued a neutral rating and set a $2,400.00 price objective on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill in a research note on Wednesday. Stifel Nicolaus boosted their price objective on Chipotle Mexican Grill from $2,450.00 to $2,560.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Friday, February 2nd. Oppenheimer boosted their price objective on Chipotle Mexican Grill from $2,225.00 to $2,525.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, January 5th. Finally, BTIG Research boosted their price objective on Chipotle Mexican Grill from $2,650.00 to $2,750.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday. Nine investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eighteen have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, Chipotle Mexican Grill currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $2,454.33. Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on Chipotle Mexican Grill About Chipotle Mexican Grill (Get Free Report) Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, owns and operates Chipotle Mexican Grill restaurants. It offers burritos, burrito bowls, quesadillas, tacos, and salads. The company was founded in 1993 and is headquartered in Newport Beach, California. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Chipotle Mexican Grill Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Chipotle Mexican Grill and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. COPT Defense Properties (NYSE:CDP Get Free Report) updated its first quarter 2024 earnings guidance on Thursday. The company provided earnings per share (EPS) guidance of 0.590-0.610 for the period, compared to the consensus estimate of 0.610. The company issued revenue guidance of -. COPT Defense Properties also updated its FY 2024 guidance to 2.470-2.550 EPS. COPT Defense Properties Stock Performance Shares of COPT Defense Properties stock traded up $0.46 on Thursday, reaching $23.35. The company had a trading volume of 1,003,454 shares, compared to its average volume of 972,133. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $24.89. The stock has a market cap of $2.63 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -44.90, a PEG ratio of 2.65 and a beta of 0.94. COPT Defense Properties has a 52-week low of $21.59 and a 52-week high of $27.08. The company has a current ratio of 3.50, a quick ratio of 3.50 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.58. Get COPT Defense Properties alerts: Wall Street Analyst Weigh In CDP has been the topic of a number of research analyst reports. Wedbush reissued an outperform rating and issued a $27.00 price target on shares of COPT Defense Properties in a research note on Monday, October 30th. Raymond James reduced their price target on shares of COPT Defense Properties from $28.00 to $27.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, November 2nd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. downgraded shares of COPT Defense Properties from an overweight rating to a neutral rating and set a $26.00 target price on the stock. in a research note on Monday, December 18th. Finally, Truist Financial cut their target price on shares of COPT Defense Properties from $28.00 to $27.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, December 21st. Insider Buying and Selling In other COPT Defense Properties news, Director Steven D. Kesler sold 1,719 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, December 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $25.44, for a total value of $43,731.36. Following the sale, the director now directly owns 41,313 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,051,002.72. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. In other COPT Defense Properties news, Director Steven D. Kesler sold 1,719 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, December 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $25.44, for a total value of $43,731.36. Following the sale, the director now directly owns 41,313 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,051,002.72. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Also, Director Lisa G. Trimberger sold 7,357 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, December 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $25.48, for a total transaction of $187,456.36. Following the completion of the sale, the director now directly owns 16,863 shares in the company, valued at $429,669.24. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 0.87% of the stock is owned by insiders. About COPT Defense Properties (Get Free Report) COPT is a REIT that owns, manages, leases, develops and selectively acquires office and data center properties. The majority of its portfolio is in locations that support the United States Government and its contractors, most of whom are engaged in national security, defense and information technology (IT) related activities servicing what the Company believes are growing, durable, priority missions (Defense/IT Locations). Read More Receive News & Ratings for COPT Defense Properties Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for COPT Defense Properties and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Cornish Metals Inc. (LON:CUSN Get Free Report) traded down 8.5% during trading on Tuesday . The company traded as low as GBX 10 ($0.13) and last traded at GBX 10.25 ($0.13). 323,947 shares were traded during mid-day trading, an increase of 66% from the average session volume of 194,748 shares. The stock had previously closed at GBX 11.20 ($0.14). Cornish Metals Price Performance The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of GBX 9.94 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of GBX 11.25. The firm has a market cap of 54.87 million, a PE ratio of 1,150.00 and a beta of 2.40. Cornish Metals Company Profile (Get Free Report) Cornish Metals Inc engages in the acquisition, evaluation, exploration, and development of mineral properties in the United Kingdom. The company primarily explores for tin, tungsten, zinc, silver, nickel, lithium, and copper deposits. Its flagship projects are the South Crofty project comprising an underground mine permission area that covers 1,490 hectares located in the Central Mining District of Cornwall, the United Kingdom; and the United Downs exploration project located within the historic Gwennap copper and tin mining district in Cornwall, the United Kingdom. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Cornish Metals Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Cornish Metals and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Haifa Zangana is a veteran of political activism. She has been defending causes as diverse as justice for her Iraqi compatriots after the devastating 2003-2011 war and the rights of Tunisian and Palestinian women political prisoners for almost 50 years. Her work, consisting of more than a dozen books, stems from these struggles and from her experiences, such as her time in the infamous Abu Ghraib prison for being a member of the Iraqi Communist Party, or her exile to London, where she has been based since the 1970s. A journalist and former columnist for The Guardian, Zangana, 73, visited Madrid to raise awareness of her most recent struggle: the environment. Specifically, on the negative effects of the war in Gaza on the health of the hundreds of thousands of people who have been living under bombardment since October. In Gaza, a genocide of people and an ecocide of the environment is taking place, she says in a room at the Casa Arabe cultural center. It is a situation, she says, that Iraq also experienced, with serious consequences to this day. Question. You compare what happened during the war in Iraq with what is happening in Gaza. Why? Answer. We are witnessing the destruction of infrastructure in Gaza, buildings that when destroyed release all kinds of chemicals and toxic substances such as asbestos, which remains in the soil and in the sand on which they walk, and in the water [Gazans] consume. Thats not counting the chemicals released by the bombs, such as white phosphorus, and the waste they leave behind. It is the same thing that happened in Iraq, in the city of Fallujah, and in the southern part of the country during the war. Twenty years after the U.S. invasion we are seeing an increase in the number of cases of cancer and malformations in newborns. There are still women who refuse to get pregnant, or even give birth, because they fear that their babies will be born with horrific deformities. Q. That is to say, there is more death and devastation, even after the end of the conflict. A. The crimes are documented. The policy that the United States established in Iraq caused hundreds of thousands of deaths, and some estimates raise the figure to up to a million; many died after the war from the chemicals used in bombings and from toxins found in the air after the burning of military waste. [U.S.] soldiers also got sick, they were breathing the same air as the Iraqis. And yet no one was held accountable, which gives an idea of the kind of international law we have. Q. And do you think the same will happen in Gaza? A. Yes, as we forget public opinion very quickly and that suits the guilty parties. A couple of years after the invasion of Iraq, people became less and less interested, and I think it was a big mistake to let it go. At first, millions took to the streets to demand a ceasefire, but everyone ended up going home due to a phenomenon that I defined as Iraq fatigue. Arab countries and the global south were working toward the goal of liberation, and all they needed was the solidarity of Western countries, but that support soon ended. International law is a joke. It only applies to Arab and African leaders. For Westerners it is flexible. Q. Is Israel committing genocide in Gaza? A. Yes, definitely. And not only is a genocide of people happening, but also an ecocide of the environment. It is not something that is happening only now, but as of 17 years ago [when Israel launched Operation Summer Rain, which left more than 400 Palestinians dead]. I have been in the West Bank on several occasions, without being able to enter Gaza, and I communicated with doctor friends on the ground who told me that they had already gotten sick from drinking the water, and that was when it was still available. I think those are the only terms to describe the situation. Q. What can the international community do to alleviate this humanitarian crisis? A. Its simple. We must stop supplying weapons to Israel. It is not just about supporting the [Palestinian] population in statements, we have to stop providing money and sponsoring Israel, and not just because of what has happened since October 7. There has been a continuity of violence for 75 years [since the Nakba and the creation of the State of Israel] and it is time for the world to open its eyes. It was not Palestinians who subjugated the Jews in the Holocaust, it was Europeans. It is your responsibility, not ours. Q. Is there a double standard in the application of international law? A. You should have seen what happened in the U.K. when Russia invaded Ukraine. Everyone opened their arms and their homes [to the Ukrainians] and the media rightly condemned the invasion on a daily basis. But we didnt see that with Iraq and we dont see it now with Palestine. It is said that Israel has the right to defend itself, but no one is saying that the Palestinians do as well. The clearest example of double standards is the United Nations Security Council, where any resolution suggesting an end to the killing is vetoed by the U.S. International law is a joke. It only applies to Arab and African leaders. For Westerners it is flexible. In the last 15 years, womens groups in Arab and Muslim countries have begun to identify themselves as Islamic feminists. It is a term also used by Muslim women who have emigrated to the West. Q. I want to ask you about the other axis of your work: womens rights. Has the Western feminist revolution reached Arab and Muslim women? A. It landed decades ago in the Arab and Muslim world. With one difference: women had to adjust their ways based on the situation on the ground, especially in Palestine, Iraq, Lebanon, and Sudan, where occupation, resistance, civil conflicts, oppressive regimes, and imperialism prevail on the gender issue. In the last 15 years, womens groups in Arab and Muslim countries have begun to identify themselves as Islamic feminists. It is a term also used by Muslim women who have emigrated to the West. Q. In Western countries like France there have been debates about a ban on the abaya in schools. A. Prohibiting the use of the veil may violate the right to religious freedom. Societies that defend human dignity and equality for all must respect and celebrate diversity. The French governments ban is nothing more than a hostile act against women, thus restricting their equal and effective participation in cultural, religious, social, economic, and public life. Q. Do you consider yourself a feminist? A. I have to admit: I dont know. Im tired of labels. In the last five years, feminism has become more of a brand than a movement for equal rights and responsibilities that seeks to end all forms of segregation and oppression. Feminism and I mean American and European feminists has failed to challenge either patriarchal regimes or imperialism, especially when it comes to womens rights in postcolonial countries. I prefer to be described as an activist and humanist. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Davidson Investment Advisors grew its position in shares of Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:C Free Report) by 1.3% during the 3rd quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm owned 396,191 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 5,142 shares during the quarter. Davidson Investment Advisors holdings in Citigroup were worth $16,295,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the company. Carmel Capital Partners LLC acquired a new position in Citigroup in the third quarter valued at $25,000. GHP Investment Advisors Inc. increased its position in Citigroup by 73.8% during the 3rd quarter. GHP Investment Advisors Inc. now owns 683 shares of the companys stock worth $28,000 after purchasing an additional 290 shares in the last quarter. SkyView Investment Advisors LLC purchased a new position in Citigroup in the first quarter valued at approximately $28,000. AlphaMark Advisors LLC lifted its position in Citigroup by 75.0% during the third quarter. AlphaMark Advisors LLC now owns 700 shares of the companys stock valued at $29,000 after buying an additional 300 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Union Savings Bank acquired a new stake in shares of Citigroup in the second quarter worth $30,000. 69.26% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Citigroup alerts: Citigroup Stock Performance C stock traded down $0.25 during midday trading on Thursday, reaching $54.29. The company had a trading volume of 15,800,812 shares, compared to its average volume of 20,097,230. The firm has a market capitalization of $103.90 billion, a PE ratio of 13.51, a P/E/G ratio of 1.49 and a beta of 1.52. Citigroup Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $38.17 and a fifty-two week high of $57.95. The company has a quick ratio of 0.94, a current ratio of 0.95 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.52. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $51.72 and a 200 day moving average price of $45.72. Citigroup Dividend Announcement Citigroup ( NYSE:C Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Friday, January 12th. The company reported ($1.16) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.73 by ($1.89). The company had revenue of $17.44 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $18.71 billion. Citigroup had a net margin of 5.88% and a return on equity of 6.49%. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 3.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $1.10 earnings per share. Analysts anticipate that Citigroup Inc. will post 5.93 earnings per share for the current year. The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, February 23rd. Investors of record on Monday, February 5th will be given a $0.53 dividend. This represents a $2.12 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.90%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, February 2nd. Citigroups dividend payout ratio is currently 53.13%. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several analysts recently issued reports on C shares. Oppenheimer increased their price target on Citigroup from $93.00 to $95.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, January 30th. Daiwa Capital Markets upgraded Citigroup from a neutral rating to a buy rating and set a $63.00 price target for the company in a report on Monday, December 18th. Barclays lifted their price objective on shares of Citigroup from $59.00 to $63.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 2nd. TheStreet upgraded shares of Citigroup from a c+ rating to a b- rating in a research note on Wednesday, December 13th. Finally, Societe Generale downgraded shares of Citigroup from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research note on Monday, January 8th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have given a hold rating and nine have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Citigroup presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $56.62. Check Out Our Latest Research Report on Citigroup Citigroup Profile (Free Report) Citigroup Inc, a diversified financial services holding company, provides various financial products and services to consumers, corporations, governments, and institutions in North America, Latin America, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. It operates through three segments: Institutional Clients Group (ICG), Personal Banking and Wealth Management (PBWM), and Legacy Franchises. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding C? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:C Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Citigroup Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Citigroup and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Davidson Trust Co. trimmed its position in RTX Co. (NYSE:RTX Free Report) by 1.9% during the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 15,208 shares of the companys stock after selling 294 shares during the period. Davidson Trust Co.s holdings in RTX were worth $1,095,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Cantor Fitzgerald Investment Advisor L.P lifted its stake in shares of RTX by 94.5% in the first quarter. Cantor Fitzgerald Investment Advisor L.P now owns 322,180 shares of the companys stock worth $31,918,000 after buying an additional 156,550 shares in the last quarter. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust lifted its position in RTX by 9.2% in the 1st quarter. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust now owns 11,011 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,091,000 after acquiring an additional 931 shares in the last quarter. Ironwood Wealth Management LLC. boosted its stake in RTX by 1.2% during the 1st quarter. Ironwood Wealth Management LLC. now owns 10,761 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,066,000 after purchasing an additional 128 shares during the last quarter. AMI Investment Management Inc. raised its stake in shares of RTX by 53.1% in the first quarter. AMI Investment Management Inc. now owns 35,502 shares of the companys stock worth $3,517,000 after purchasing an additional 12,316 shares during the last quarter. Finally, LSV Asset Management lifted its holdings in shares of RTX by 1.4% during the first quarter. LSV Asset Management now owns 141,700 shares of the companys stock valued at $14,038,000 after purchasing an additional 2,000 shares in the last quarter. 79.06% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get RTX alerts: Insider Buying and Selling In related news, COO Christopher T. Calio sold 367 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, February 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $92.63, for a total transaction of $33,995.21. Following the completion of the sale, the chief operating officer now owns 56,707 shares in the company, valued at $5,252,769.41. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. In related news, COO Christopher T. Calio sold 367 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, February 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $92.63, for a total transaction of $33,995.21. Following the completion of the sale, the chief operating officer now owns 56,707 shares in the company, valued at $5,252,769.41. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, CFO Neil G. Mitchill, Jr. sold 1,545 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, February 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $92.36, for a total value of $142,696.20. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 49,894 shares of the companys stock, valued at $4,608,209.84. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last 90 days, insiders sold 2,224 shares of company stock worth $205,448. 0.11% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several equities research analysts recently commented on the company. UBS Group lifted their price objective on RTX from $93.00 to $96.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, January 24th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft downgraded shares of RTX from a hold rating to a sell rating and lowered their price objective for the company from $79.00 to $68.00 in a research report on Friday, October 27th. Bank of America raised shares of RTX from an underperform rating to a neutral rating and lifted their target price for the stock from $78.00 to $100.00 in a research report on Thursday, January 25th. TheStreet raised RTX from a c rating to a b- rating in a report on Tuesday, January 23rd. Finally, StockNews.com lowered RTX from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Wednesday, October 25th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, fourteen have given a hold rating and three have given a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $91.71. Read Our Latest Research Report on RTX RTX Stock Performance RTX traded down $0.89 during midday trading on Thursday, reaching $91.04. The company had a trading volume of 6,165,781 shares, compared to its average volume of 8,271,561. The company has a quick ratio of 0.78, a current ratio of 1.04 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.69. The business has a 50-day moving average of $85.49 and a two-hundred day moving average of $82.05. The company has a market cap of $120.79 billion, a P/E ratio of 40.78, a P/E/G ratio of 1.68 and a beta of 0.89. RTX Co. has a 1 year low of $68.56 and a 1 year high of $104.91. RTX (NYSE:RTX Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, January 23rd. The company reported $1.29 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.25 by $0.04. The business had revenue of $19.93 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $19.74 billion. RTX had a return on equity of 10.34% and a net margin of 4.64%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 10.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $1.27 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts predict that RTX Co. will post 5.38 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. RTX Dividend Announcement The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, March 21st. Investors of record on Friday, February 23rd will be given a dividend of $0.59 per share. This represents a $2.36 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.59%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, February 22nd. RTXs dividend payout ratio is currently 105.36%. RTX Profile (Free Report) RTX Corporation, an aerospace and defense company, provides systems and services for the commercial, military, and government customers worldwide. It operates through four segments: Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, Raytheon Intelligence & Space, and Raytheon Missiles & Defense. The Collins Aerospace Systems segment offers aerospace and defense products, and aftermarket service solutions for aircraft manufacturers and airlines, as well as regional, business, and general aviation; and for defense and commercial space operations. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding RTX? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for RTX Co. (NYSE:RTX Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for RTX Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for RTX and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. EastGroup Properties (NYSE:EGP Get Free Report) issued an update on its FY 2024 earnings guidance on Wednesday morning. The company provided earnings per share (EPS) guidance of 8.170-8.370 for the period, compared to the consensus estimate of 8.290. The company issued revenue guidance of -. EastGroup Properties also updated its FY24 guidance to $8.17-8.37 EPS. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of brokerages have recently weighed in on EGP. Raymond James upgraded EastGroup Properties from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $180.00 price objective for the company in a research report on Friday, October 27th. Mizuho lowered EastGroup Properties from a buy rating to a neutral rating and set a $185.00 target price for the company. in a research report on Tuesday, December 5th. Finally, Truist Financial boosted their target price on EastGroup Properties from $175.00 to $186.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, January 16th. Six analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $187.00. Get EastGroup Properties alerts: Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on EastGroup Properties EastGroup Properties Stock Performance EastGroup Properties Announces Dividend EastGroup Properties stock traded up $1.15 during mid-day trading on Friday, reaching $186.11. 236,021 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 264,426. The business has a fifty day moving average of $180.51 and a 200 day moving average of $174.77. The firm has a market cap of $8.62 billion, a P/E ratio of 42.20, a PEG ratio of 2.56 and a beta of 0.94. EastGroup Properties has a 12-month low of $152.45 and a 12-month high of $188.85. The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, January 12th. Stockholders of record on Friday, December 29th were issued a dividend of $1.27 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, December 28th. This represents a $5.08 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.73%. EastGroup Propertiess dividend payout ratio is presently 115.19%. Insider Activity In other news, EVP John F. Coleman sold 1,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Wednesday, December 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $173.05, for a total transaction of $173,050.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now owns 90,305 shares in the company, valued at approximately $15,627,280.25. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Company insiders own 1.50% of the companys stock. Hedge Funds Weigh In On EastGroup Properties Hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Quarry LP acquired a new position in shares of EastGroup Properties in the 2nd quarter valued at $27,000. Dark Forest Capital Management LP increased its position in shares of EastGroup Properties by 3,380.0% in the 1st quarter. Dark Forest Capital Management LP now owns 174 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $29,000 after acquiring an additional 169 shares during the period. Group One Trading L.P. acquired a new position in shares of EastGroup Properties in the 1st quarter valued at $41,000. Kayne Anderson Rudnick Investment Management LLC acquired a new stake in EastGroup Properties during the 1st quarter worth about $49,000. Finally, Belpointe Asset Management LLC grew its position in EastGroup Properties by 141.0% during the 1st quarter. Belpointe Asset Management LLC now owns 494 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $82,000 after purchasing an additional 289 shares during the period. 90.69% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. EastGroup Properties Company Profile (Get Free Report) EastGroup Properties, Inc (NYSE: EGP), a member of the S&P Mid-Cap 400 and Russell 1000 Indexes, is a self-administered equity real estate investment trust focused on the development, acquisition and operation of industrial properties in major Sunbelt markets throughout the United States with an emphasis in the states of Florida, Texas, Arizona, California and North Carolina. Read More Receive News & Ratings for EastGroup Properties Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for EastGroup Properties and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Edwards Lifesciences (NYSE:EW Get Free Report) issued an update on its FY 2024 earnings guidance on Tuesday morning. The company provided earnings per share (EPS) guidance of 2.700-2.800 for the period, compared to the consensus estimate of 2.760. The company issued revenue guidance of $6.3 billion-$6.6 billion, compared to the consensus revenue estimate of $6.5 billion. Edwards Lifesciences also updated its FY24 guidance to $2.70-$2.80 EPS. Edwards Lifesciences Price Performance Edwards Lifesciences stock traded down $0.81 during mid-day trading on Thursday, hitting $85.80. 3,544,789 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 4,375,920. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $75.01 and a 200-day moving average price of $73.55. The stock has a market cap of $52.04 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 37.66, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 4.85 and a beta of 1.04. Edwards Lifesciences has a one year low of $60.57 and a one year high of $94.87. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.09, a quick ratio of 2.45 and a current ratio of 3.28. Get Edwards Lifesciences alerts: Edwards Lifesciences (NYSE:EW Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, February 6th. The medical research company reported $0.64 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, hitting the consensus estimate of $0.64. The firm had revenue of $1.53 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.50 billion. Edwards Lifesciences had a return on equity of 23.84% and a net margin of 23.35%. The companys revenue was up 13.3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $0.64 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts predict that Edwards Lifesciences will post 2.75 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several equities research analysts recently weighed in on the company. SVB Leerink started coverage on Edwards Lifesciences in a report on Monday, October 16th. They set a market perform rating and a $75.00 target price for the company. Royal Bank of Canada lifted their target price on shares of Edwards Lifesciences from $82.00 to $95.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday. Wolfe Research cut shares of Edwards Lifesciences from a peer perform rating to an underperform rating and set a $57.00 price target for the company. in a research report on Tuesday, November 28th. Piper Sandler decreased their price objective on shares of Edwards Lifesciences from $83.00 to $68.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, October 26th. Finally, Truist Financial increased their target price on shares of Edwards Lifesciences from $78.00 to $84.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Friday, December 22nd. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have given a hold rating and eight have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $87.38. Read Our Latest Research Report on Edwards Lifesciences Insiders Place Their Bets In other Edwards Lifesciences news, VP Daveen Chopra sold 3,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, December 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $70.00, for a total transaction of $245,000.00. Following the sale, the vice president now directly owns 23,950 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,676,500. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. In other Edwards Lifesciences news, VP Daveen Chopra sold 3,500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, December 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $70.00, for a total transaction of $245,000.00. Following the sale, the vice president now directly owns 23,950 shares in the company, valued at $1,676,500. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Also, Director Heisz Leslie Stone sold 7,056 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, February 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $86.45, for a total transaction of $609,991.20. Following the completion of the sale, the director now owns 26,980 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,332,421. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 139,339 shares of company stock worth $10,324,578 over the last quarter. 1.29% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Institutional Trading of Edwards Lifesciences Large investors have recently modified their holdings of the company. Advisors Asset Management Inc. boosted its position in shares of Edwards Lifesciences by 0.3% in the 1st quarter. Advisors Asset Management Inc. now owns 43,556 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $5,127,000 after purchasing an additional 117 shares in the last quarter. Apollon Wealth Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Edwards Lifesciences by 1.0% in the 1st quarter. Apollon Wealth Management LLC now owns 12,487 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $1,033,000 after buying an additional 119 shares during the period. Geller Advisors LLC boosted its position in Edwards Lifesciences by 6.5% in the 1st quarter. Geller Advisors LLC now owns 1,965 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $231,000 after purchasing an additional 120 shares in the last quarter. KCM Investment Advisors LLC grew its stake in shares of Edwards Lifesciences by 2.7% during the 1st quarter. KCM Investment Advisors LLC now owns 5,392 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $635,000 after purchasing an additional 142 shares during the period. Finally, First Citizens Bank & Trust Co. increased its holdings in shares of Edwards Lifesciences by 2.5% during the 2nd quarter. First Citizens Bank & Trust Co. now owns 6,147 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $580,000 after purchasing an additional 152 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 79.25% of the companys stock. About Edwards Lifesciences (Get Free Report) Edwards Lifesciences Corporation provides products and technologies for structural heart disease, and critical care and surgical monitoring in the United States, Europe, Japan, and internationally. It offers transcatheter heart valve replacement products for the minimally invasive replacement of heart valves; and transcatheter heart valve repair and replacement products to treat mitral and tricuspid valve diseases. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Edwards Lifesciences Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Edwards Lifesciences and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Essex Property Trust (NYSE:ESS Get Free Report) updated its first quarter 2024 earnings guidance on Tuesday. The company provided EPS guidance of 3.680-3.800 for the period, compared to the consensus EPS estimate of 3.750. The company issued revenue guidance of -. Essex Property Trust also updated its FY 2024 guidance to 14.760-15.300 EPS. Essex Property Trust Trading Up 0.1 % Shares of ESS traded up $0.32 during trading hours on Thursday, hitting $229.34. The stock had a trading volume of 439,005 shares, compared to its average volume of 437,431. Essex Property Trust has a 12-month low of $195.03 and a 12-month high of $252.85. The firm has a market cap of $14.72 billion, a P/E ratio of 36.14, a P/E/G ratio of 2.67 and a beta of 0.80. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.09, a quick ratio of 2.63 and a current ratio of 2.63. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $238.90 and its 200 day simple moving average is $229.02. Get Essex Property Trust alerts: Essex Property Trust Announces Dividend The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, January 12th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, January 2nd were paid a dividend of $2.31 per share. The ex-dividend date was Friday, December 29th. This represents a $9.24 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.03%. Essex Property Trusts dividend payout ratio is presently 146.43%. Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of analysts have recently issued reports on ESS shares. Royal Bank of Canada boosted their target price on Essex Property Trust from $237.00 to $239.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Thursday. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft started coverage on shares of Essex Property Trust in a research report on Tuesday, January 30th. They set a hold rating and a $240.00 price target on the stock. Mizuho increased their price objective on shares of Essex Property Trust from $232.00 to $256.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, January 10th. Stifel Nicolaus cut their target price on shares of Essex Property Trust from $225.00 to $223.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday. Finally, Truist Financial upped their price target on shares of Essex Property Trust from $260.00 to $276.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, January 16th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, eleven have given a hold rating and four have issued a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $244.41. View Our Latest Report on ESS Hedge Funds Weigh In On Essex Property Trust Large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Steward Partners Investment Advisory LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Essex Property Trust by 100.0% in the 4th quarter. Steward Partners Investment Advisory LLC now owns 120 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $25,000 after buying an additional 60 shares during the period. Clear Street Markets LLC grew its holdings in shares of Essex Property Trust by 89.4% during the first quarter. Clear Street Markets LLC now owns 125 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $26,000 after purchasing an additional 59 shares during the last quarter. Pacific Center for Financial Services bought a new position in shares of Essex Property Trust during the first quarter valued at approximately $30,000. Advisory Services Network LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Essex Property Trust during the 1st quarter worth approximately $32,000. Finally, Lazard Asset Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Essex Property Trust by 25.3% in the 1st quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC now owns 243 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $83,000 after purchasing an additional 49 shares during the last quarter. 92.93% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Essex Property Trust Company Profile (Get Free Report) Essex Property Trust, Inc, an S&P 500 company, is a fully integrated real estate investment trust (REIT) that acquires, develops, redevelops, and manages multifamily residential properties in selected West Coast markets. Essex currently has ownership interests in 252 apartment communities comprising approximately 62,000 apartment homes with an additional property in active development. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Essex Property Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Essex Property Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Financiere des Professionnels Fonds d investissement inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Medtronic plc (NYSE:MDT Free Report) during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm acquired 67,344 shares of the medical technology companys stock, valued at approximately $5,277,000. A number of other hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Hall Capital Management Co. Inc. boosted its stake in Medtronic by 2.9% during the 2nd quarter. Hall Capital Management Co. Inc. now owns 4,226 shares of the medical technology companys stock valued at $372,000 after acquiring an additional 120 shares during the last quarter. Bollard Group LLC boosted its stake in Medtronic by 1.8% during the 2nd quarter. Bollard Group LLC now owns 6,955 shares of the medical technology companys stock valued at $613,000 after acquiring an additional 121 shares during the last quarter. DT Investment Partners LLC lifted its position in shares of Medtronic by 1.0% in the 2nd quarter. DT Investment Partners LLC now owns 12,076 shares of the medical technology companys stock worth $1,059,000 after buying an additional 124 shares during the last quarter. Rockland Trust Co. grew its position in shares of Medtronic by 0.8% during the 2nd quarter. Rockland Trust Co. now owns 15,609 shares of the medical technology companys stock valued at $1,375,000 after buying an additional 126 shares during the last quarter. Finally, BOK Financial Private Wealth Inc. grew its position in shares of Medtronic by 13.1% during the 2nd quarter. BOK Financial Private Wealth Inc. now owns 1,091 shares of the medical technology companys stock valued at $97,000 after buying an additional 126 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 80.75% of the companys stock. Get Medtronic alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes A number of equities research analysts recently weighed in on the stock. Truist Financial boosted their price objective on shares of Medtronic from $84.00 to $87.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a research report on Friday, December 22nd. Royal Bank of Canada boosted their price objective on shares of Medtronic from $82.00 to $92.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research report on Friday, January 12th. Finally, Morgan Stanley reduced their price target on shares of Medtronic from $104.00 to $98.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, November 22nd. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have given a hold rating and seven have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Medtronic currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $93.92. Medtronic Stock Performance Shares of NYSE:MDT traded down $0.98 during trading on Thursday, reaching $86.18. The stock had a trading volume of 5,937,781 shares, compared to its average volume of 5,902,654. Medtronic plc has a 52 week low of $68.84 and a 52 week high of $92.02. The firm has a market capitalization of $114.59 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 27.84, a P/E/G ratio of 3.07 and a beta of 0.78. The company has a quick ratio of 1.69, a current ratio of 2.29 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.46. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $83.97 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $80.49. Medtronic (NYSE:MDT Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, November 21st. The medical technology company reported $1.25 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.18 by $0.07. Medtronic had a net margin of 12.83% and a return on equity of 13.73%. The business had revenue of $7.98 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $7.93 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $1.30 earnings per share. Medtronics revenue was up 5.3% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, analysts anticipate that Medtronic plc will post 5.16 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Medtronic Dividend Announcement The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, January 12th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, December 20th were paid a $0.69 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, December 19th. This represents a $2.76 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.20%. Medtronics dividend payout ratio is presently 89.90%. Insider Activity In related news, EVP Brett A. Wall sold 4,997 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, December 19th. The stock was sold at an average price of $82.17, for a total transaction of $410,603.49. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 28,910 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,375,534.70. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. 0.30% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Medtronic Profile (Free Report) Medtronic plc develops, manufactures, and sells device-based medical therapies to healthcare systems, physicians, clinicians, and patients worldwide. Its Cardiovascular Portfolio segment offers implantable cardiac pacemakers, cardioverter defibrillators, and cardiac resynchronization therapy devices; cardiac ablation products; insertable cardiac monitor systems; TYRX products; and remote monitoring and patient-centered software. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Medtronic Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Medtronic and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Financiere des Professionnels Fonds d investissement inc. acquired a new stake in shares of McCormick & Company, Incorporated (NYSE:MKC Free Report) in the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The fund acquired 76,675 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $5,800,000. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of the business. Union Savings Bank bought a new position in McCormick & Company, Incorporated in the second quarter worth approximately $27,000. Legacy Financial Group LLC purchased a new stake in McCormick & Company, Incorporated during the third quarter worth $29,000. Headlands Technologies LLC bought a new stake in McCormick & Company, Incorporated during the 2nd quarter valued at $35,000. Point72 Hong Kong Ltd purchased a new position in shares of McCormick & Company, Incorporated in the 1st quarter valued at $44,000. Finally, Private Trust Co. NA raised its position in shares of McCormick & Company, Incorporated by 50.4% in the 2nd quarter. Private Trust Co. NA now owns 516 shares of the companys stock worth $45,000 after acquiring an additional 173 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 78.15% of the companys stock. Get McCormick & Company Incorporated alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets MKC has been the topic of a number of recent research reports. Barclays dropped their price objective on McCormick & Company, Incorporated from $74.00 to $71.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, January 16th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lowered their price target on shares of McCormick & Company, Incorporated from $59.00 to $57.00 and set an underweight rating on the stock in a report on Friday, January 26th. Citigroup started coverage on shares of McCormick & Company, Incorporated in a research note on Thursday, February 1st. They set a sell rating and a $60.00 price objective for the company. Finally, Consumer Edge cut shares of McCormick & Company, Incorporated from an overweight rating to an equal weight rating in a research report on Monday, January 22nd. Three analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have issued a hold rating and one has issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, McCormick & Company, Incorporated has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $73.50. McCormick & Company, Incorporated Price Performance Shares of NYSE MKC traded up $0.20 during trading on Thursday, hitting $65.82. The company had a trading volume of 1,691,284 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,159,255. The firm has a market capitalization of $17.66 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 26.04, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.59 and a beta of 0.75. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $67.29 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $71.80. The company has a quick ratio of 0.28, a current ratio of 0.65 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.66. McCormick & Company, Incorporated has a fifty-two week low of $59.13 and a fifty-two week high of $94.39. McCormick & Company, Incorporated (NYSE:MKC Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, January 25th. The company reported $0.85 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.79 by $0.06. The firm had revenue of $1.75 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.78 billion. McCormick & Company, Incorporated had a net margin of 10.22% and a return on equity of 14.55%. McCormick & Company, Incorporateds quarterly revenue was up 3.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the company posted $0.73 EPS. On average, research analysts expect that McCormick & Company, Incorporated will post 2.82 earnings per share for the current year. McCormick & Company, Incorporated Increases Dividend The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, January 8th. Stockholders of record on Friday, December 29th were paid a $0.42 dividend. This is an increase from McCormick & Company, Incorporateds previous quarterly dividend of $0.39. This represents a $1.68 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.55%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, December 28th. McCormick & Company, Incorporateds dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 66.67%. McCormick & Company, Incorporated Profile (Free Report) McCormick & Company, Incorporated manufactures, markets, and distributes spices, seasoning mixes, condiments, and other flavorful products to the food industry. It operates in two segments, Consumer and Flavor Solutions. The Consumer segment offers spices, herbs, and seasonings, as well as condiments and sauces, and desserts. Read More Receive News & Ratings for McCormick & Company Incorporated Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for McCormick & Company Incorporated and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Innovis Asset Management LLC acquired a new stake in Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE:TSN Free Report) during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor acquired 6,259 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $316,000. A number of other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in TSN. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS grew its stake in Tyson Foods by 15.3% during the 3rd quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS now owns 57,415 shares of the companys stock worth $2,899,000 after buying an additional 7,605 shares during the last quarter. Aptus Capital Advisors LLC grew its stake in Tyson Foods by 7.2% during the 3rd quarter. Aptus Capital Advisors LLC now owns 20,056 shares of the companys stock worth $1,013,000 after buying an additional 1,346 shares during the last quarter. State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement System grew its stake in Tyson Foods by 13.1% during the 3rd quarter. State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement System now owns 404,444 shares of the companys stock worth $20,420,000 after buying an additional 46,928 shares during the last quarter. Pathstone Family Office LLC purchased a new position in Tyson Foods during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $774,000. Finally, Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC grew its stake in Tyson Foods by 6.0% during the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC now owns 18,194 shares of the companys stock worth $919,000 after buying an additional 1,025 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 63.68% of the companys stock. Get Tyson Foods alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes Several research analysts have weighed in on the company. Barclays lifted their target price on Tyson Foods from $50.00 to $53.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a research note on Tuesday. Stephens reiterated an overweight rating and issued a $70.00 target price on shares of Tyson Foods in a research note on Tuesday. Piper Sandler lifted their target price on Tyson Foods from $44.00 to $48.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, January 26th. BMO Capital Markets lifted their target price on Tyson Foods from $52.00 to $55.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a research note on Tuesday. Finally, Citigroup assumed coverage on Tyson Foods in a research note on Thursday, February 1st. They issued a neutral rating and a $56.00 target price on the stock. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have assigned a hold rating and one has issued a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $57.60. Tyson Foods Price Performance TSN stock traded down $1.68 during midday trading on Friday, hitting $52.29. 1,776,455 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 2,695,163. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $53.31 and its 200-day moving average price is $51.55. The stock has a market cap of $18.58 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -21.85, a PEG ratio of 0.43 and a beta of 0.77. Tyson Foods, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $44.94 and a fifty-two week high of $63.49. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.46, a quick ratio of 0.52 and a current ratio of 1.49. Tyson Foods (NYSE:TSN Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Monday, February 5th. The company reported $0.69 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.41 by $0.28. Tyson Foods had a positive return on equity of 2.23% and a negative net margin of 1.62%. The firm had revenue of $13.32 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $13.34 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $0.85 earnings per share. Tyson Foodss revenue was up .4% on a year-over-year basis. Research analysts predict that Tyson Foods, Inc. will post 2.32 earnings per share for the current year. Tyson Foods Dividend Announcement The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, June 14th. Stockholders of record on Friday, May 31st will be issued a $0.49 dividend. This represents a $1.96 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.75%. Tyson Foodss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is -79.35%. Insider Transactions at Tyson Foods In other news, Chairman John H. Tyson sold 133,277 shares of Tyson Foods stock in a transaction on Tuesday, November 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $46.16, for a total value of $6,152,066.32. Following the completion of the sale, the chairman now owns 2,739,150 shares of the companys stock, valued at $126,439,164. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Insiders own 2.05% of the companys stock. Tyson Foods Profile (Free Report) Tyson Foods, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a food company worldwide. It operates through four segments: Beef, Pork, Chicken, and Prepared Foods. The company processes live fed cattle and hogs; fabricates dressed beef and pork carcasses into primal and sub-primal meat cuts, as well as case ready beef and pork, and fully cooked meats; raises and processes chickens into fresh, frozen, and value-added chicken products, including breaded chicken strips, nuggets, patties, and other ready-to-fix or fully cooked chicken parts; and supplies poultry breeding stock. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TSN? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE:TSN Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Tyson Foods Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Tyson Foods and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Innovis Asset Management LLC acquired a new stake in VAALCO Energy, Inc. (NYSE:EGY Free Report) during the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm acquired 47,418 shares of the energy companys stock, valued at approximately $208,000. Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. raised its position in VAALCO Energy by 66.0% in the 1st quarter. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. now owns 23,576 shares of the energy companys stock valued at $154,000 after purchasing an additional 9,376 shares in the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised its holdings in VAALCO Energy by 1,189.3% in the first quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 154,276 shares of the energy companys stock valued at $1,007,000 after acquiring an additional 142,310 shares in the last quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp lifted its stake in VAALCO Energy by 15.3% in the first quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 721,459 shares of the energy companys stock worth $4,711,000 after acquiring an additional 95,474 shares during the last quarter. American Century Companies Inc. grew its holdings in VAALCO Energy by 68.0% during the 1st quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 69,286 shares of the energy companys stock worth $452,000 after acquiring an additional 28,038 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Citigroup Inc. acquired a new position in shares of VAALCO Energy during the first quarter worth $944,000. 48.60% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get VAALCO Energy alerts: Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Separately, StockNews.com upgraded VAALCO Energy from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday. VAALCO Energy Stock Down 1.2 % EGY traded down $0.05 on Friday, reaching $4.18. The companys stock had a trading volume of 287,606 shares, compared to its average volume of 660,241. The company has a market capitalization of $439.57 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.22 and a beta of 1.26. VAALCO Energy, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $3.51 and a fifty-two week high of $5.22. The company has a quick ratio of 1.25, a current ratio of 1.31 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.18. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $4.45 and a two-hundred day moving average of $4.41. VAALCO Energy (NYSE:EGY Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Tuesday, November 7th. The energy company reported $0.07 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.14 by ($0.07). VAALCO Energy had a net margin of 8.48% and a return on equity of 10.09%. The company had revenue of $116.27 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $126.15 million. As a group, analysts forecast that VAALCO Energy, Inc. will post 0.45 EPS for the current fiscal year. About VAALCO Energy (Free Report) VAALCO Energy, Inc, an independent energy company, acquires, explores for, develops, and produces crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids. The company holds Etame production sharing contract related to the Etame Marin block located offshore in the Republic of Gabon in West Africa. It also owns interests in an undeveloped block offshore Equatorial Guinea, West Africa. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding EGY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for VAALCO Energy, Inc. (NYSE:EGY Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for VAALCO Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for VAALCO Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Centene Co. (NYSE:CNC Get Free Report) President Kenneth J. Fasola sold 12,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, February 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $75.07, for a total transaction of $900,840.00. Following the sale, the president now owns 235,365 shares in the company, valued at $17,668,850.55. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. Centene Stock Up 2.1 % Shares of CNC traded up $1.58 during trading hours on Thursday, hitting $76.50. The company had a trading volume of 3,277,358 shares, compared to its average volume of 3,130,938. The companys fifty day moving average price is $75.33 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $70.91. Centene Co. has a one year low of $60.83 and a one year high of $79.83. The company has a market capitalization of $40.87 billion, a PE ratio of 15.58, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.96 and a beta of 0.36. The company has a current ratio of 1.11, a quick ratio of 1.12 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.68. Get Centene alerts: Centene (NYSE:CNC Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, February 6th. The company reported $0.45 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.43 by $0.02. Centene had a return on equity of 14.26% and a net margin of 1.75%. The company had revenue of $39.46 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $36.16 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $0.86 EPS. The firms quarterly revenue was up 11.0% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities analysts forecast that Centene Co. will post 6.7 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Analysts Set New Price Targets Several brokerages recently commented on CNC. Truist Financial upped their price target on shares of Centene from $83.00 to $86.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday, December 21st. UBS Group upped their price target on shares of Centene from $72.00 to $79.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, December 21st. Wells Fargo & Company upgraded shares of Centene from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and upped their price target for the company from $82.00 to $90.00 in a report on Tuesday, January 2nd. Finally, Cantor Fitzgerald upped their price target on shares of Centene from $82.00 to $90.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Friday, December 15th. Eight investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, seven have assigned a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $84.47. Get Our Latest Analysis on CNC Institutional Inflows and Outflows Several hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in CNC. Coppell Advisory Solutions Corp. purchased a new stake in Centene during the 4th quarter valued at about $25,000. Turtle Creek Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in Centene during the 4th quarter valued at about $25,000. Operose Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in Centene during the 3rd quarter valued at about $25,000. ST Germain D J Co. Inc. purchased a new stake in Centene during the 2nd quarter valued at about $26,000. Finally, OFI Invest Asset Management purchased a new stake in Centene during the 3rd quarter valued at about $26,000. 90.92% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. About Centene (Get Free Report) Centene Corporation operates as a healthcare enterprise that provides programs and services to under-insured and uninsured families, commercial organizations, and military families in the United States. It operates in two segments, Managed Care and Specialty Services. The Managed Care segment offers health plan coverage to individuals through government subsidized programs, including Medicaid, the State children's health insurance program, long-term services and support, foster care, and medicare-medicaid plans, which cover dually eligible individuals, as well as aged, blind, or disabled programs. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Centene Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Centene and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. AD Ports Group has announced that Noatum, which leads its Logistics Cluster operations, successfully closed the acquisition of 100% equity ownership of Sese Auto Logistics, for an enterprise value of EUR81 million ($88.14 million). The acquisition, which was approved by all relevant European regulators and closed today, solidifies Noatum's commitment to providing comprehensive solutions across the entire logistics value chain in the automotive industry. The acquisition of the Finished Vehicles Logistics (FVL) business of Grupo Logistico Sese implies a trailing EV/EBITDA of 3.8x based on the companys Last Twelve Months (LTM) performance to December 2023 - revenue of around EUR106 million, with EBITDA margin of 21%. Automotive logistics market normalisation Going forward, Noatum expects a normalisation of the European automotive logistics market, which has been factored in the transaction business case. The acquisition of Sese Auto Logistics, which will be fully consolidated into Noatum from February 2024 onwards, enhances Noatum's standing in the European automotive logistics market. The company is renowned for its road transport logistics of light and heavy vehicles, and operates in most European countries - with offices in Spain, Germany, Poland, Czech Republic, and Hungary - and a fleet of over 200 trucks covering more than 30 million kilometres annually. End-to-end logistics solution Sese Auto Logistics reputation for technological innovation and commitment to environmental sustainability aligns seamlessly with Noatum's vision for growth. By integrating the company into Noatums Automotive brand, Noatum aims to provide a full end-to-end logistics solution - from RoRo Terminal handling, to vehicle transportation, to final delivery. This strategic move anticipates significant synergies with Noatum's existing port terminals business in Spain, reinforcing its integrated logistics solution for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and other stakeholders. Noatum Automotive maintains its strategy of neutrality towards all its stakeholders. The acquisition is part of Noatum's strategic vision to emerge as a leading European supplier of logistics services to the finished vehicle sector, capitalising on the projected 6% annual growth in the continents EUR3 billion FVL market. The integration of employees and the rollout of the new brand, Noatum Auto Logistics, are already underway, reinforcing Noatum's commitment to excellence in the automotive logistics industry. Enhancing capabilities Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO, AD Ports Group, said: With the necessary regulatory approvals secured, Noatum's acquisition of Sese Auto Logistics signifies an important step in realising AD Ports Groups vision for becoming a leading global logistics services provider with broad international reach across all leading industry sectors, inclusive of automotive. This strategic move enhances our capabilities, expertise, and logistics networks, and positions us well to expand within Europes and the Mediterranean Regions growing and lucrative Finished Vehicles Logistics industry. Antonio Campoy, Chief Executive Officer, Noatum Group, Logistics Cluster, AD Ports Group, said: "Our main focus with Noatum Auto Logistics is to enhance our industry solutions to meet our customers' evolving needs and to strengthen our product range across the logistics supply chain, which will enable us to compete as a major player in the global automotive sector."--TradeArabia News Service Israel announced Friday a major move in the Gaza war. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has decided to move his troops into Rafah, at the southern tip of the Gaza Strip, in order to complete its occupation of the Palestinian enclave. The military operation would include the evacuation of more than one million people over half of Gazas total population (some 2.3 million) , the vast majority of whom were forcibly displaced from northern Gaza by Israeli forces and crowded into the area bordering Egypt. It is impossible to achieve the goal of the war of eliminating Hamas by leaving four Hamas battalions in Rafah, Netanyahus office said in a statement Friday. On the contrary, it is clear that intense activity in Rafah requires that civilians evacuate the areas of combat, the text added. The prime minister has ordered the military and security officials to come up with a combined plan that includes both a mass evacuation of civilians and the destruction of Hamas forces in the area. This is a very complex task about which the statement does not provide any details. For days, all eyes have been on Rafah, which could become a new battlefield in Israels war on Gaza. In defiance of the international communitys appeals, both at the diplomatic and humanitarian levels, Israeli troops have continued their air and artillery attacks on the densely crowded area, where civilians have been pushed to throughout the past four months of war. At least eight people, several from the same family, were killed by an Israeli bomb on Friday, according to local health authorities. Meanwhile, the military remains in neighboring Khan Yunis, a few miles further north and the focal point of the conflict in recent weeks. Netanyahus announcement comes shortly after U.S. President Joe Biden said Thursday night that Israels conduct in the war has been over the top. Israels main international ally fears that the current humanitarian crisis will worsen and the number of civilian casualties will skyrocket if troops invade Rafah. The same fear has been expressed by the United Nations and different NGOs working on the ground. The United States is also trying to put Netanyahu on the path to a ceasefire agreement with Hamas. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who recently traveled to the region for the fifth time since October 7, left on Thursday without an agreement. Meanwhile, Egypt and Qatar are trying to keep negotiations alive by maintaining direct contact with Hamas in Cairo. Some Israeli analysts consider, in any case, that Netanyahu is trying to cover his back. On the one hand, he flatly rejected Hamass proposal for a truce and exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners and is keeping his government afloat thanks to ministers who act as his internal opposition, openly confronting the Biden administration. On the other hand, he is trying to keep the moderates in his administration on his side. Behind Netanyahus decision on whether to make Rafah another Khan Younis, lies the issue of the release of the 136 hostages still in Gaza, whose return home is one of the pillars on which the ceasefire negotiations revolve. Vaughan Nelson Investment Management L.P. grew its holdings in shares of Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. (NYSE:ICE Free Report) by 2.2% during the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 2,039,432 shares of the financial services providers stock after acquiring an additional 43,434 shares during the quarter. Intercontinental Exchange accounts for approximately 2.5% of Vaughan Nelson Investment Management L.P.s holdings, making the stock its 4th biggest holding. Vaughan Nelson Investment Management L.P. owned approximately 0.36% of Intercontinental Exchange worth $224,378,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in ICE. OFI Invest Asset Management purchased a new position in shares of Intercontinental Exchange during the third quarter worth approximately $25,000. Oakworth Capital Inc. increased its stake in shares of Intercontinental Exchange by 53.9% in the second quarter. Oakworth Capital Inc. now owns 297 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $34,000 after buying an additional 104 shares during the period. First Capital Advisors Group LLC. purchased a new position in shares of Intercontinental Exchange in the second quarter worth $35,000. Pacifica Partners Inc. purchased a new position in shares of Intercontinental Exchange in the third quarter worth $37,000. Finally, Halpern Financial Inc. increased its stake in shares of Intercontinental Exchange by 545.6% in the third quarter. Halpern Financial Inc. now owns 368 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $40,000 after buying an additional 311 shares during the period. 87.91% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Intercontinental Exchange alerts: Insider Buying and Selling at Intercontinental Exchange In other Intercontinental Exchange news, General Counsel Andrew J. Surdykowski sold 2,364 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, December 26th. The shares were sold at an average price of $126.00, for a total transaction of $297,864.00. Following the transaction, the general counsel now owns 43,493 shares in the company, valued at approximately $5,480,118. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. In other Intercontinental Exchange news, General Counsel Andrew J. Surdykowski sold 2,364 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, December 26th. The shares were sold at an average price of $126.00, for a total transaction of $297,864.00. Following the transaction, the general counsel now owns 43,493 shares in the company, valued at approximately $5,480,118. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, SVP Douglas Foley sold 1,600 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, November 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $114.46, for a total transaction of $183,136.00. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 16,802 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,923,156.92. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last 90 days, insiders have sold 77,419 shares of company stock worth $9,567,057. Company insiders own 1.10% of the companys stock. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several brokerages recently commented on ICE. Rosenblatt Securities lifted their target price on shares of Intercontinental Exchange from $154.00 to $164.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Friday. Citigroup lifted their target price on shares of Intercontinental Exchange from $130.00 to $146.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Friday, January 12th. Morgan Stanley boosted their price objective on shares of Intercontinental Exchange from $119.00 to $124.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Tuesday, November 28th. Barclays raised shares of Intercontinental Exchange from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and boosted their price objective for the company from $120.00 to $148.00 in a research report on Monday, January 8th. Finally, StockNews.com downgraded shares of Intercontinental Exchange from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research report on Tuesday. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have issued a hold rating, six have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $138.17. Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on Intercontinental Exchange Intercontinental Exchange Stock Up 1.1 % Intercontinental Exchange stock traded up $1.47 during mid-day trading on Friday, reaching $135.59. The stock had a trading volume of 2,454,537 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,301,862. The company has a market capitalization of $75.79 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 31.46, a PEG ratio of 2.60 and a beta of 1.01. The company has a 50-day moving average price of $124.70 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $116.69. Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. has a one year low of $94.16 and a one year high of $135.98. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.82, a current ratio of 1.00 and a quick ratio of 1.00. Intercontinental Exchange (NYSE:ICE Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 8th. The financial services provider reported $1.33 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.29 by $0.04. The company had revenue of $2.20 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.20 billion. Intercontinental Exchange had a net margin of 25.17% and a return on equity of 13.06%. Intercontinental Exchanges revenue was up 24.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $1.25 EPS. On average, analysts expect that Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. will post 5.6 EPS for the current fiscal year. Intercontinental Exchange Increases Dividend The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 29th. Investors of record on Friday, March 15th will be paid a $0.45 dividend. This is a boost from Intercontinental Exchanges previous quarterly dividend of $0.42. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, March 14th. This represents a $1.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.33%. Intercontinental Exchanges payout ratio is presently 38.98%. About Intercontinental Exchange (Free Report) Intercontinental Exchange, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the provision of market infrastructure, data services, and technology solutions for financial institutions, corporations, and government entities in the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Singapore, India, Abu Dhabi, Israel, and Canada. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding ICE? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. (NYSE:ICE Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Intercontinental Exchange Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Intercontinental Exchange and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Invesco FTSE RAFI US 1000 ETF (NYSEARCA:PRF Get Free Report) reached a new 52-week high during trading on Friday . The stock traded as high as $36.12 and last traded at $36.10, with a volume of 411674 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $36.00. Invesco FTSE RAFI US 1000 ETF Price Performance The stocks fifty day moving average price is $35.01 and its 200-day moving average price is $33.39. The firm has a market cap of $6.72 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 12.89 and a beta of 1.00. Get Invesco FTSE RAFI US 1000 ETF alerts: Institutional Trading of Invesco FTSE RAFI US 1000 ETF Several institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Bank of Montreal Can raised its stake in shares of Invesco FTSE RAFI US 1000 ETF by 43.0% in the first quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 5,032 shares of the companys stock worth $875,000 after acquiring an additional 1,512 shares during the last quarter. Cibc World Market Inc. raised its stake in shares of Invesco FTSE RAFI US 1000 ETF by 2.6% during the first quarter. Cibc World Market Inc. now owns 3,740 shares of the companys stock worth $639,000 after buying an additional 93 shares during the last quarter. Blair William & Co. IL raised its stake in shares of Invesco FTSE RAFI US 1000 ETF by 39.1% during the first quarter. Blair William & Co. IL now owns 51,296 shares of the companys stock worth $8,764,000 after buying an additional 14,432 shares during the last quarter. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC raised its stake in shares of Invesco FTSE RAFI US 1000 ETF by 18.3% during the first quarter. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC now owns 6,031 shares of the companys stock worth $1,030,000 after buying an additional 932 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Baird Financial Group Inc. raised its stake in shares of Invesco FTSE RAFI US 1000 ETF by 11.8% during the first quarter. Baird Financial Group Inc. now owns 7,871 shares of the companys stock worth $1,345,000 after buying an additional 828 shares during the last quarter. Invesco FTSE RAFI US 1000 ETF Company Profile The Invesco FTSE RAFI US 1000 ETF (PRF) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the FTSE RAFI US 1000 index. The fund tracks an index of 1,000 of the largest US companies that are selected and weighted using fundamental metrics. PRF was launched on Dec 19, 2005 and is managed by Invesco. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Invesco FTSE RAFI US 1000 ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Invesco FTSE RAFI US 1000 ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. iShares J.P. Morgan EM High Yield Bond ETF (BATS:EMHY Get Free Report) shares rose 0.1% on Thursday . The company traded as high as $36.22 and last traded at $36.20. Approximately 20,673 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, The stock had previously closed at $36.16. iShares J.P. Morgan EM High Yield Bond ETF Trading Up 0.1 % The businesss 50-day moving average is $36.01 and its two-hundred day moving average is $34.97. Get iShares J.P. Morgan EM High Yield Bond ETF alerts: Institutional Trading of iShares J.P. Morgan EM High Yield Bond ETF Hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Provence Wealth Management Group acquired a new position in shares of iShares J.P. Morgan EM High Yield Bond ETF in the third quarter worth about $85,000. Bank of New York Mellon Corp raised its position in shares of iShares J.P. Morgan EM High Yield Bond ETF by 8.9% in the 3rd quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 26,402 shares of the companys stock valued at $899,000 after purchasing an additional 2,158 shares in the last quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. boosted its stake in shares of iShares J.P. Morgan EM High Yield Bond ETF by 16.4% during the 3rd quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. now owns 32,129 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,094,000 after buying an additional 4,527 shares during the last quarter. Flow Traders U.S. LLC grew its position in shares of iShares J.P. Morgan EM High Yield Bond ETF by 360.3% during the second quarter. Flow Traders U.S. LLC now owns 125,800 shares of the companys stock worth $4,419,000 after buying an additional 98,470 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Ameriprise Financial Inc. increased its stake in shares of iShares J.P. Morgan EM High Yield Bond ETF by 14.7% in the first quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. now owns 47,188 shares of the companys stock worth $1,663,000 after buying an additional 6,038 shares during the last quarter. About iShares J.P. Morgan EM High Yield Bond ETF The iShares J.P. Morgan EM High Yield Bond ETF (EMHY) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in high yield fixed income. The fund tracks an index comprising USD denominated emerging markets high yield bonds. EMHY was launched on Apr 3, 2012 and is managed by BlackRock. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for iShares J.P. Morgan EM High Yield Bond ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares J.P. Morgan EM High Yield Bond ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Jacobs Solutions (NYSE:J Get Free Report) issued an update on its FY24 earnings guidance on Tuesday morning. The company provided EPS guidance of $7.70-$8.20 for the period, compared to the consensus EPS estimate of $8.04. Jacobs Solutions also updated its FY 2024 guidance to 7.700-8.200 EPS. Jacobs Solutions Price Performance Shares of NYSE:J opened at $143.17 on Friday. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $131.52 and a 200-day simple moving average of $132.27. Jacobs Solutions has a one year low of $109.00 and a one year high of $143.93. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.42, a quick ratio of 1.37 and a current ratio of 1.37. The stock has a market capitalization of $17.99 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 25.57, a PEG ratio of 1.53 and a beta of 0.73. Get Jacobs Solutions alerts: Jacobs Solutions (NYSE:J Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, February 6th. The company reported $2.02 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.56 by $0.46. The business had revenue of $4.20 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.02 billion. Jacobs Solutions had a net margin of 4.20% and a return on equity of 14.57%. The businesss revenue was up 10.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $1.67 earnings per share. On average, analysts predict that Jacobs Solutions will post 8.06 EPS for the current year. Jacobs Solutions Increases Dividend Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 22nd. Shareholders of record on Friday, February 23rd will be issued a $0.29 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, February 22nd. This is a boost from Jacobs Solutionss previous quarterly dividend of $0.26. This represents a $1.16 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.81%. Jacobs Solutionss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 18.57%. J has been the topic of several research reports. Stifel Nicolaus reiterated a buy rating and issued a $150.00 price target on shares of Jacobs Solutions in a research report on Tuesday, November 21st. Benchmark reiterated a buy rating and issued a $160.00 price target on shares of Jacobs Solutions in a research report on Wednesday, November 22nd. Raymond James lowered shares of Jacobs Solutions from an outperform rating to a market perform rating in a research report on Wednesday, November 22nd. KeyCorp assumed coverage on shares of Jacobs Solutions in a research report on Wednesday, January 10th. They set a sector weight rating on the stock. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada raised their target price on shares of Jacobs Solutions from $151.00 to $161.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $152.11. Read Our Latest Stock Report on J Insider Activity In other news, SVP William B. Allen, Jr. sold 1,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Monday, December 4th. The shares were sold at an average price of $129.50, for a total transaction of $194,250.00. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 28,150 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,645,425. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. In other news, SVP William B. Allen, Jr. sold 1,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Monday, December 4th. The shares were sold at an average price of $129.50, for a total transaction of $194,250.00. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 28,150 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,645,425. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Also, EVP Patrick Hill sold 5,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Friday, December 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $127.48, for a total transaction of $701,140.00. Following the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 62,719 shares of the companys stock, valued at $7,995,418.12. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 23,832 shares of company stock valued at $3,112,190 in the last ninety days. Company insiders own 1.00% of the companys stock. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Jacobs Solutions Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Clear Street Markets LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Jacobs Solutions by 93.8% during the 1st quarter. Clear Street Markets LLC now owns 250 shares of the companys stock valued at $29,000 after acquiring an additional 121 shares in the last quarter. Quilter Plc acquired a new position in Jacobs Solutions in the 1st quarter worth $349,536,000. Money Concepts Capital Corp acquired a new position in Jacobs Solutions in the 4th quarter worth $46,000. Quarry LP lifted its holdings in Jacobs Solutions by 78.9% in the 1st quarter. Quarry LP now owns 442 shares of the companys stock worth $52,000 after buying an additional 195 shares in the last quarter. Finally, ICA Group Wealth Management LLC acquired a new position in Jacobs Solutions in the 4th quarter worth $63,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 84.77% of the companys stock. About Jacobs Solutions (Get Free Report) Jacobs Solutions Inc provides consulting, technical, engineering, scientific, and project delivery services for the government and private sectors in the United States, Europe, Canada, India, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, the Middle East, and Africa. It operates through Critical Mission Solutions, People & Places Solutions, Divergent Solutions, and PA Consulting segments. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Jacobs Solutions Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Jacobs Solutions and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. JPMorgan European Growth & Income plc (LON:JETG Get Free Report) shares fell 0.5% on Thursday . The company traded as low as GBX 363 ($4.55) and last traded at GBX 363 ($4.55). 7,932 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 78% from the average session volume of 35,464 shares. The stock had previously closed at GBX 365 ($4.58). JPMorgan European Growth & Income Stock Performance The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 9.82, a quick ratio of 72.39 and a current ratio of 72.47. The company has a market cap of 570.77 million and a P/E ratio of 3.34. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of GBX 363 and a 200-day moving average price of GBX 363. About JPMorgan European Growth & Income (Get Free Report) JPMorgan European Investment Trust plc Growth Shares is an open-ended equity mutual fund launched and managed by JPMorgan Funds Limited. The fund is co-managed by JPMorgan Asset Management (UK) Limited. It invests in the public equity markets in Europe. The fund primarily invests its portfolio in the financial sector. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for JPMorgan European Growth & Income Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for JPMorgan European Growth & Income and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Jupiter Asset Management Ltd. cut its holdings in Linde plc (NYSE:LIN Free Report) by 8.7% during the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 116,926 shares of the basic materials companys stock after selling 11,089 shares during the period. Jupiter Asset Management Ltd.s holdings in Linde were worth $43,537,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of LIN. Asset Management One Co. Ltd. increased its position in Linde by 2.2% during the 2nd quarter. Asset Management One Co. Ltd. now owns 212,407 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $80,944,000 after purchasing an additional 4,499 shares during the period. Stifel Financial Corp increased its position in Linde by 0.9% during the 2nd quarter. Stifel Financial Corp now owns 1,692,463 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $644,986,000 after purchasing an additional 14,969 shares during the period. Point72 Europe London LLP acquired a new stake in Linde during the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $23,044,000. CWM LLC increased its position in Linde by 13.0% during the 2nd quarter. CWM LLC now owns 7,943 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $3,027,000 after purchasing an additional 913 shares during the period. Finally, Atomi Financial Group Inc. increased its position in Linde by 26.7% during the 2nd quarter. Atomi Financial Group Inc. now owns 760 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $290,000 after purchasing an additional 160 shares during the period. 80.98% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Linde alerts: Linde Stock Performance Shares of NYSE LIN traded down $2.83 during mid-day trading on Thursday, reaching $414.00. 1,483,232 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,655,686. The firm has a market capitalization of $200.74 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 33.09, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.57 and a beta of 0.92. Linde plc has a 52 week low of $319.23 and a 52 week high of $434.21. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.33, a current ratio of 0.80 and a quick ratio of 0.68. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $408.14 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $392.99. Analyst Ratings Changes Linde ( NYSE:LIN Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 6th. The basic materials company reported $3.59 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $3.49 by $0.10. Linde had a return on equity of 17.06% and a net margin of 18.87%. The company had revenue of $8.30 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $8.04 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $3.16 EPS. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 5.1% on a year-over-year basis. Analysts predict that Linde plc will post 15.47 EPS for the current year. LIN has been the subject of several recent analyst reports. UBS Group reduced their price objective on shares of Linde from $450.00 to $445.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, October 12th. BMO Capital Markets raised their price objective on shares of Linde from $418.00 to $421.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Monday, October 30th. Wells Fargo & Company raised their price objective on shares of Linde from $470.00 to $480.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday. Stifel Nicolaus downgraded shares of Linde from a buy rating to a hold rating and set a $429.00 price objective for the company. in a research report on Monday, January 22nd. Finally, Seaport Res Ptn cut Linde from a buy rating to a neutral rating in a report on Monday, January 8th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have given a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $433.14. View Our Latest Stock Analysis on LIN Linde Company Profile (Free Report) Linde plc operates as an industrial gas company in North and South America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia Pacific. It offers atmospheric gases, including oxygen, nitrogen, argon, and rare gases; and process gases, such as carbon dioxide, helium, hydrogen, electronic gases, specialty gases, and acetylene. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding LIN? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Linde plc (NYSE:LIN Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Linde Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Linde and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF (NYSEARCA:KEUA Get Free Report) were up 1.6% during trading on Tuesday . The company traded as high as $21.58 and last traded at $21.53. Approximately 3,786 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 54% from the average daily volume of 8,147 shares. The stock had previously closed at $21.19. KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF Trading Down 2.5 % The company has a fifty day simple moving average of $24.24 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $28.14. Get KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF alerts: Institutional Trading of KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. UBS Group AG acquired a new position in shares of KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF during the 1st quarter worth about $41,000. International Assets Investment Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF during the 4th quarter worth about $57,000. NewEdge Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF during the 1st quarter worth about $306,000. Susquehanna International Group LLP acquired a new position in shares of KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF during the 4th quarter worth about $346,000. Finally, Bank of Montreal Can acquired a new position in shares of KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF during the 2nd quarter worth about $856,000. KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF Company Profile The KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF (KEUA) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the IHS Markit Carbon EUA index. The fund tracks a liquidity-weighted EUA carbon credit futures index. KEUA was launched on Oct 5, 2021 and is managed by KraneShares. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for KraneShares European Carbon Allowance Strategy ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Meridian Mining UK Societas (CVE:MNO Get Free Report) shares traded up 9.6% during trading on Tuesday . The company traded as high as C$1.07 and last traded at C$1.03. 247,282 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, an increase of 12% from the average session volume of 220,803 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$0.94. Meridian Mining UK Societas Stock Up 9.6 % The stock has a market cap of C$152.09 million and a PE ratio of -3.30. The stock has a 50-day moving average of C$1.03 and a 200 day moving average of C$1.03. Meridian Mining UK Societas Company Profile (Get Free Report) Meridian Mining UK Societas, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the acquisition, exploration, and development of mineral properties in Brazil. The company explores for manganese, gold, copper, and tin deposits. It holds interest in the EspigAo polymetallic project and the Ariquemes tin project located in RondAnia. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Meridian Mining UK Societas Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Meridian Mining UK Societas and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Mohawk Industries (NYSE:MHK Get Free Report) issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday. The company reported $1.96 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.86 by $0.10, Briefing.com reports. The company had revenue of $2.61 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.56 billion. Mohawk Industries had a negative net margin of 4.88% and a positive return on equity of 6.91%. Mohawk Industriess revenue was down 1.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned $1.32 EPS. Mohawk Industries updated its Q1 guidance to $1.60-$1.70 EPS and its Q1 2024 guidance to 1.600-1.700 EPS. Mohawk Industries Stock Performance Shares of MHK stock traded up $0.67 on Thursday, hitting $109.63. The companys stock had a trading volume of 1,034,041 shares, compared to its average volume of 775,865. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23, a quick ratio of 0.94 and a current ratio of 1.73. The stocks 50 day moving average is $101.59 and its 200-day moving average is $94.63. Mohawk Industries has a fifty-two week low of $76.02 and a fifty-two week high of $123.54. The company has a market capitalization of $6.98 billion, a PE ratio of -12.78 and a beta of 1.31. Get Mohawk Industries alerts: Wall Street Analyst Weigh In MHK has been the subject of several research analyst reports. Jefferies Financial Group reduced their price target on shares of Mohawk Industries from $118.00 to $93.00 in a report on Thursday, October 12th. The Goldman Sachs Group upped their price target on shares of Mohawk Industries from $105.00 to $120.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, January 11th. Barclays raised shares of Mohawk Industries from an underweight rating to an equal weight rating and upped their price target for the stock from $80.00 to $100.00 in a research report on Wednesday, December 13th. Truist Financial dropped their price target on shares of Mohawk Industries from $130.00 to $105.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, October 17th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company dropped their price target on shares of Mohawk Industries from $105.00 to $100.00 and set an underweight rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, January 22nd. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, three have issued a hold rating and four have given a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, Mohawk Industries presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $106.67. Insiders Place Their Bets In other news, insider Suzanne L. Helen sold 5,500 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, December 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $94.09, for a total value of $517,495.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 8,953 shares of the companys stock, valued at $842,387.77. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. In other news, insider Suzanne L. Helen sold 5,500 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, December 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $94.09, for a total value of $517,495.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 8,953 shares of the companys stock, valued at $842,387.77. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, CEO Jeffrey S. Lorberbaum sold 25,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, November 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $86.34, for a total transaction of $2,158,500.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 14,200 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,226,028. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold 30,779 shares of company stock worth $2,699,406 over the last ninety days. Corporate insiders own 17.20% of the companys stock. Institutional Inflows and Outflows A number of large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in MHK. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. raised its holdings in Mohawk Industries by 4.7% during the 1st quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 4,953 shares of the companys stock worth $615,000 after purchasing an additional 224 shares during the last quarter. Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund bought a new position in Mohawk Industries during the 1st quarter worth approximately $1,043,000. MetLife Investment Management LLC raised its holdings in Mohawk Industries by 23.2% during the 1st quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC now owns 14,929 shares of the companys stock worth $1,854,000 after purchasing an additional 2,809 shares during the last quarter. Panagora Asset Management Inc. raised its holdings in Mohawk Industries by 98.7% during the 1st quarter. Panagora Asset Management Inc. now owns 10,628 shares of the companys stock worth $1,320,000 after purchasing an additional 5,280 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS grew its position in shares of Mohawk Industries by 6.6% during the 1st quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS now owns 7,341 shares of the companys stock worth $912,000 after buying an additional 455 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 77.04% of the companys stock. About Mohawk Industries (Get Free Report) Mohawk Industries, Inc designs, manufactures, sources, distributes, and markets flooring products for residential and commercial remodeling, and new construction channels in the United States, Europe, Russia, and internationally. It operates through three segments: Global Ceramic, Flooring North America (Flooring NA), and Flooring Rest of the World (Flooring ROW). See Also Receive News & Ratings for Mohawk Industries Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Mohawk Industries and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Motorola Solutions (NYSE:MSI Get Free Report) updated its first quarter 2024 earnings guidance on Thursday. The company provided earnings per share (EPS) guidance of 2.500-2.550 for the period, compared to the consensus estimate of 2.370. The company issued revenue guidance of $2.3 billion-$2.3 billion, compared to the consensus revenue estimate of $2.3 billion. Motorola Solutions also updated its FY 2024 guidance to 12.620-12.720 EPS. Motorola Solutions Stock Performance Motorola Solutions stock traded up $0.42 during mid-day trading on Thursday, hitting $328.35. 933,745 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 633,054. The stock has a market cap of $54.51 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 33.20, a P/E/G ratio of 2.71 and a beta of 0.92. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $319.09 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $299.18. Motorola Solutions has a fifty-two week low of $255.85 and a fifty-two week high of $330.93. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 12.51, a current ratio of 0.95 and a quick ratio of 0.77. Get Motorola Solutions alerts: Motorola Solutions Increases Dividend The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, January 12th. Stockholders of record on Friday, December 15th were given a $0.98 dividend. This is an increase from Motorola Solutionss previous quarterly dividend of $0.88. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, December 14th. This represents a $3.92 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.19%. Motorola Solutionss dividend payout ratio is presently 39.64%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several research firms have weighed in on MSI. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft initiated coverage on Motorola Solutions in a research report on Friday, January 19th. They set a buy rating and a $350.00 price objective on the stock. StockNews.com lowered shares of Motorola Solutions from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, November 11th. Finally, Barclays boosted their price target on Motorola Solutions from $333.00 to $352.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 2nd. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Motorola Solutions presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $328.29. View Our Latest Report on Motorola Solutions Hedge Funds Weigh In On Motorola Solutions Institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the business. Cornerstone Planning Group LLC bought a new stake in shares of Motorola Solutions during the second quarter worth $33,000. Eagle Bay Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in Motorola Solutions during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $35,000. Strategic Investment Solutions Inc. IL bought a new stake in Motorola Solutions during the 1st quarter worth approximately $35,000. Almanack Investment Partners LLC. acquired a new position in Motorola Solutions in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $38,000. Finally, PCA Investment Advisory Services Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Motorola Solutions in the second quarter worth $39,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 82.37% of the companys stock. Motorola Solutions Company Profile (Get Free Report) Motorola Solutions, Inc provides public safety and enterprise security solutions in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and internationally. The company operates in two segments, Products and Systems Integration, and Software and Services. The Products and Systems Integration segment offers a portfolio of infrastructure, devices, accessories, and video security devices and infrastructure, as well as the implementation and integration of systems, devices, software, and applications for government, public safety, and commercial customers who operate private communications networks and video security solutions, as well as manage a mobile workforce. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Motorola Solutions Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Motorola Solutions and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing a dilemma that hangs over his head like a sword of Damocles: to prioritize a truce for the release of the hostages held in the Strip, or to ramp up military operations in Gaza to put an end to Hamas. Netanyahu finds himself in a crossfire between those who are calling for the former, such as the United States and the families of the hostages, and those who prescribe the latter, notably the most ultranationalist wing of his government. The prime ministers categorical refusal to meet what he considers unacceptable demands from Hamas for a ceasefire leads Israel, at least for the moment, toward the option of keeping the steamroller of its army active in Gaza, where it has already killed almost 28,000 Palestinians. This was demonstrated by the ongoing bombardments and artillery attacks on Rafah, the last unconquered part of the Strip and a refuge for more than one million displaced Gazans. These attacks are considered the prelude to the occupation of an area already experiencing a humanitarian nightmare, according to UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres. Meanwhile, the mediating countries are not throwing in the towel and are trying to keep ceasefire talks afloat. Since Thursday, the Egyptian and Qatari authorities, two of the mediating countries along with the U.S., have been trying to unblock the talks in Cairo with a Hamas delegation. According to their officials, the parties to the conflict maintain positions that make a truce impossible. In a poll conducted by the Israel Democracy Institute at the end of January among Israels Jewish and Arab population, 51% said the main objective of the war was the release of Israeli hostages, while 36% said the main objective should be to eliminate Hamas. Those are not conflicting goals and we will not give up either said Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid, who met with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken during his latest tour of the region. The whole Israeli society is determined to bring back the hostages and to eradicate Hamas. The main focus of pressure on Netanyahus administration are the families of those who fell into the hands of Hamas and other Islamist militias during the October 7 attacks on Israel. Please, prime minister, if you continue on this path, there will be no more hostages to free. Regain our trust, release them now. This was the plea issued Wednesday night by Adina Moshe, who was freed at the end of November during the previous ceasefire after being held captive for 49 days in Gaza. Moshe was one of five released hostages who took part in a rally in Tel Aviv following Netanyahus refusal to accept the conditions laid out by Hamas for a new truce. Kobi Michael, an Israeli analyst with the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS), acknowledges that there is tension between the two objectives that mark Netanyahus dilemma. But he has no doubt that the only thing that can accelerate negotiations between the two sides is Israeli military pressure on Hamas, and that Qatar and Egypt must raise the pressure on the militia to change its position. Hamas, he adds in a telephone conversation, is emotionally terrorizing Israelis, especially the families of the abductees, because it knows the sacred value of life that prevails in Israel. The people of Israel understand very well that we cannot accept the agreement at any price, he concludes. The priority of the hostages Not everyone agrees on prioritizing military intervention to defeat Hamas. Freeing the hostages is a national, pragmatic, and moral duty. It is not more important than eradicating Hamas, but it is much more urgent and, consequently, must be the priority, says Ehud Barak, the former prime minister who is in favor of calling elections as soon as possible because of what he considers Netanyahus inability to manage the country. Approximately one-third of the hostages are no longer alive, hence the need to act immediately. Failure to reach an agreement will mark Israeli society as a whole for generations to come, adds the former Chief of Staff of the Israeli army in an article published on the Channel 12 website. Israel needs to make a strategic choice between Bidens initiative and the vision presented by [Itamar] Ben-Gvir and [Bezalel] Smotrich, he notes, referring to the preferences of the U.S. president and two of the most radical ministers in the government. Netanyahu does not want to say no to a U.S. president who is personally involved in the efforts to free the prisoners, said Akiva Eldar, a political analyst for the daily Haaretz, in statements to the Al Jazeera network. The prime minister is interested in negotiations, but I am not sure if most of the captives will be alive then, and they cannot wait until Netanyahu and Hamas come up with an absolute and final agreement. The families are also keeping up the pressure on Netanyahu: We have reached the moment of truth, the moment when we have to decide who lives and who dies, who will return and who will become prey to inhuman monsters: 136 hostages are now waiting in tunnels, without oxygen, without food, without water, and without hope, waiting for you to save them, they warned in a statement. Of those 136, authorities estimate that at least 30 have already died, either while in captivity or during the October 7 attacks. If the hostages do not return home, all high school students, all mothers and fathers, should know that they may be next. That they live in a state that is not committed to their safety, that mutual accountability in the state is dead. For Labors Barak, Israel is like the Titanic, sinking with Netanyahu at the helm, hence his call for elections. He has proposed June because delaying them any longer, to the end of this year or early 2025, would hand Netanyahu a lifeline, he argues. In this way, the former prime minister believes, Netanyahu could circumvent Biden, who faces elections next November, and thus manage his continuity hand in hand with ministers like Smotrich and Ben-Gvir, who back a military iron fist in Gaza, the expulsion of Palestinians from the Strip and its permanent reoccupation by Israeli civilians and military. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Vaughan Nelson Investment Management L.P. lifted its holdings in shares of National Storage Affiliates Trust (NYSE:NSA Free Report) by 8.6% during the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 1,339,319 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after purchasing an additional 106,395 shares during the quarter. Vaughan Nelson Investment Management L.P. owned approximately 1.61% of National Storage Affiliates Trust worth $42,510,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the company. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. boosted its holdings in National Storage Affiliates Trust by 14.6% during the first quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. now owns 5,869 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $368,000 after acquiring an additional 746 shares during the period. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. raised its holdings in National Storage Affiliates Trust by 5.3% in the 1st quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. now owns 4,045 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $254,000 after acquiring an additional 205 shares in the last quarter. AlphaCrest Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in National Storage Affiliates Trust in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $227,000. Bank of Montreal Can raised its holdings in National Storage Affiliates Trust by 64.4% in the 1st quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 36,028 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $2,298,000 after acquiring an additional 14,107 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Rhumbline Advisers grew its stake in shares of National Storage Affiliates Trust by 2.7% in the 1st quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 236,485 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $14,842,000 after purchasing an additional 6,140 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 83.63% of the companys stock. Get National Storage Affiliates Trust alerts: Insider Buying and Selling In other news, insider Arlen Dale Nordhagen purchased 10,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Tuesday, December 5th. The shares were acquired at an average price of $35.92 per share, with a total value of $359,200.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 4,029,626 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $144,744,165.92. The purchase was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. 13.00% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of research firms recently commented on NSA. KeyCorp upgraded National Storage Affiliates Trust from a sector weight rating to an overweight rating and set a $45.00 price target on the stock in a research report on Friday, January 5th. Truist Financial increased their price objective on National Storage Affiliates Trust from $35.00 to $37.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, December 28th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft assumed coverage on National Storage Affiliates Trust in a research note on Tuesday, January 30th. They issued a sell rating and a $33.00 price target on the stock. Wells Fargo & Company increased their price target on National Storage Affiliates Trust from $32.00 to $36.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, December 12th. Finally, Evercore ISI reissued an underperform rating and issued a $35.00 price target (up previously from $32.00) on shares of National Storage Affiliates Trust in a research note on Monday, December 11th. Five analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, five have assigned a hold rating and one has assigned a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $36.33. Read Our Latest Research Report on NSA National Storage Affiliates Trust Price Performance Shares of NYSE NSA traded down $0.21 during midday trading on Friday, reaching $36.81. 271,098 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 716,886. The company has a quick ratio of 0.55, a current ratio of 0.55 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.12. National Storage Affiliates Trust has a one year low of $27.86 and a one year high of $44.78. The stock has a market cap of $3.06 billion, a P/E ratio of 33.77, a PEG ratio of 7.61 and a beta of 0.85. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $38.70 and its 200-day moving average price is $34.53. About National Storage Affiliates Trust (Free Report) National Storage Affiliates Trust is a real estate investment trust headquartered in Greenwood Village, Colorado, focused on the ownership, operation and acquisition of self storage properties predominantly located within the top 100 metropolitan statistical areas throughout the United States. As of September 30, 2023, the Company held ownership interests in and operated 1,119 self storage properties located in 42 states and Puerto Rico with approximately 73.0 million rentable square feet. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for National Storage Affiliates Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for National Storage Affiliates Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. New Jersey Resources (NYSE:NJR Get Free Report) issued an update on its FY 2024 earnings guidance on Tuesday morning. The company provided EPS guidance of 2.850-3.000 for the period, compared to the consensus EPS estimate of 2.930. The company issued revenue guidance of -. New Jersey Resources also updated its FY24 guidance to $2.85-3.00 EPS. New Jersey Resources Trading Up 1.6 % NJR stock opened at $41.16 on Friday. New Jersey Resources has a 1-year low of $38.92 and a 1-year high of $55.84. The firm has a market cap of $4.05 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.87, a P/E/G ratio of 2.29 and a beta of 0.63. The businesss 50 day moving average is $43.26 and its 200-day moving average is $42.76. The company has a current ratio of 0.70, a quick ratio of 0.38 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.33. Get New Jersey Resources alerts: New Jersey Resources (NYSE:NJR Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, February 6th. The utilities provider reported $0.74 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.89 by ($0.15). The business had revenue of $467.20 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $812.66 million. New Jersey Resources had a return on equity of 11.13% and a net margin of 13.96%. The firms revenue was down 35.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $1.14 earnings per share. Equities analysts anticipate that New Jersey Resources will post 2.95 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. New Jersey Resources Dividend Announcement Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, April 1st. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, March 13th will be issued a $0.42 dividend. This represents a $1.68 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.08%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, March 12th. New Jersey Resourcess payout ratio is currently 68.85%. Several research firms have issued reports on NJR. StockNews.com raised New Jersey Resources from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Wednesday. Mizuho reduced their price objective on New Jersey Resources from $47.00 to $45.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Monday. Read Our Latest Report on NJR Insider Buying and Selling at New Jersey Resources In other New Jersey Resources news, COO Patrick J. Migliaccio sold 3,579 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, December 21st. The shares were sold at an average price of $44.29, for a total transaction of $158,513.91. Following the completion of the sale, the chief operating officer now owns 41,886 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,855,130.94. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Corporate insiders own 0.75% of the companys stock. Institutional Trading of New Jersey Resources A number of large investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Quarry LP bought a new position in New Jersey Resources during the 2nd quarter worth about $38,000. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. boosted its stake in shares of New Jersey Resources by 71.2% during the 4th quarter. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. now owns 914 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $45,000 after buying an additional 380 shares during the last quarter. PCA Investment Advisory Services Inc. acquired a new position in shares of New Jersey Resources during the 2nd quarter worth about $73,000. IFP Advisors Inc boosted its stake in shares of New Jersey Resources by 264.7% during the 2nd quarter. IFP Advisors Inc now owns 1,641 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $77,000 after buying an additional 1,191 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Alps Advisors Inc. acquired a new position in shares of New Jersey Resources during the 4th quarter worth about $216,000. Institutional investors own 73.08% of the companys stock. About New Jersey Resources (Get Free Report) New Jersey Resources Corporation, an energy services holding company, distributes natural gas. The company operates through four segments: Natural Gas Distribution, Clean Energy Ventures, Energy Services, and Storage and Transportation. The Natural Gas Distribution segment offers regulated natural gas utility services to approximately 576,000 customers in Burlington, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, and Sussex counties in New Jersey; provides capacity and storage management services; and participates in the off-system sales and capacity release markets. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for New Jersey Resources Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for New Jersey Resources and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Oncolytics Biotech Inc. (TSE:ONC Get Free Report) shares reached a new 52-week low during trading on Wednesday . The stock traded as low as C$1.26 and last traded at C$1.27, with a volume of 277752 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at C$1.41. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Separately, Cantor Fitzgerald restated an overweight rating on shares of Oncolytics Biotech in a research report on Friday, January 12th. Get Oncolytics Biotech alerts: Get Our Latest Analysis on ONC Oncolytics Biotech Stock Performance About Oncolytics Biotech The businesss 50-day simple moving average is C$1.70 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is C$2.36. The firm has a market cap of C$102.03 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -2.69 and a beta of 1.42. The company has a quick ratio of 8.86, a current ratio of 4.53 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.77. (Get Free Report) Oncolytics Biotech Inc, a development-stage biopharmaceutical company, focuses on the discovery and development of pharmaceutical products for the treatment of cancer. The company is developing pelareorep, an intravenously delivered immunotherapeutic agent, which is in phase 3 clinical trial for the treatment of hormone receptor-positive / human epidermal growth factor 2-negative metastatic breast cancer and advanced/metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Oncolytics Biotech Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Oncolytics Biotech and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Pandora A/S (OTCMKTS:PANDY Get Free Report) posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday. The company reported $1.06 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.14 by ($0.08), MarketWatch Earnings reports. The business had revenue of $1.56 billion during the quarter. Pandora A/S Trading Up 5.1 % OTCMKTS:PANDY opened at $38.96 on Friday. Pandora A/S has a one year low of $19.73 and a one year high of $38.98. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $35.08 and its 200 day simple moving average is $30.18. Get Pandora A/S alerts: About Pandora A/S (Get Free Report) Featured Articles Pandora A/S designs, manufactures, and markets hand-finished and contemporary jewelry. The company offers charms, bracelets, rings, earrings, necklaces, and pendants. Its jewelry material includes silver, gold with gemstones, stones, cultured pearls, and glass. The company sells its products through physical stores, online stores, and wholesale and third-party distribution in Denmark, the United States, China, the United Kingdom, Italy, Australia, France, Germany, and internationally. Receive News & Ratings for Pandora A/S Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Pandora A/S and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Davidson Investment Advisors grew its position in shares of Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM Free Report) by 1.4% during the third quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 165,988 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 2,232 shares during the period. Davidson Investment Advisors holdings in Philip Morris International were worth $15,367,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. A number of other large investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in PM. Financial Gravity Asset Management Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Philip Morris International in the second quarter valued at $753,000. PCA Investment Advisory Services Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Philip Morris International in the second quarter valued at $27,000. Spotlight Asset Group Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Philip Morris International in the second quarter valued at $37,000. DHJJ Financial Advisors Ltd. acquired a new stake in shares of Philip Morris International in the third quarter valued at $36,000. Finally, Legacy Financial Group LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Philip Morris International in the third quarter valued at $37,000. 79.70% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Philip Morris International alerts: Philip Morris International Price Performance Shares of PM stock traded down $2.43 during midday trading on Thursday, reaching $89.01. 9,258,459 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 5,064,458. The firms 50 day simple moving average is $93.32 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $93.61. Philip Morris International Inc. has a 1-year low of $87.23 and a 1-year high of $103.79. The firm has a market cap of $138.18 billion, a PE ratio of 17.76, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.45 and a beta of 0.63. Philip Morris International Dividend Announcement Philip Morris International ( NYSE:PM Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 8th. The company reported $1.36 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.44 by ($0.08). Philip Morris International had a negative return on equity of 129.48% and a net margin of 9.62%. The company had revenue of $9.05 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $8.99 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $1.39 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 11.0% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, research analysts anticipate that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 6.08 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, January 10th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, December 21st were paid a $1.30 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, December 20th. This represents a $5.20 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.84%. Philip Morris Internationals payout ratio is currently 100.97%. Insiders Place Their Bets In other news, insider Wilde Frederic De sold 10,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Tuesday, November 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $94.25, for a total transaction of $942,500.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 198,447 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $18,703,629.75. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. 0.13% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In PM has been the topic of a number of analyst reports. Jefferies Financial Group cut their price target on Philip Morris International from $111.00 to $105.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, October 13th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price target on Philip Morris International from $110.00 to $115.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, November 29th. Redburn Atlantic initiated coverage on Philip Morris International in a research note on Thursday, November 16th. They issued a neutral rating and a $95.00 price target on the stock. Finally, UBS Group cut Philip Morris International from a buy rating to a sell rating and cut their price target for the company from $105.00 to $86.50 in a research note on Tuesday, January 23rd. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, two have issued a hold rating and six have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Philip Morris International presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $107.39. View Our Latest Research Report on PM Philip Morris International Profile (Free Report) Philip Morris International Inc operates as a tobacco company working to delivers a smoke-free future and evolving portfolio for the long-term to include products outside of the tobacco and nicotine sector. The company's product portfolio primarily consists of cigarettes and smoke-free products, including heat-not-burn, vapor, and oral nicotine products primarily under the IQOS and ZYN brands; and consumer accessories, such as lighters and matches. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Philip Morris International Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Philip Morris International and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Postal Savings Bank of China Co., Ltd. (OTCMKTS:PSTVY Get Free Report) shares traded up 6.2% during trading on Tuesday . The company traded as high as $10.49 and last traded at $10.35. 57,517 shares were traded during trading, an increase of 267% from the average session volume of 15,658 shares. The stock had previously closed at $9.75. Postal Savings Bank of China Stock Performance The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $9.34 and a 200-day moving average price of $9.75. Postal Savings Bank of China Company Profile (Get Free Report) Postal Savings Bank of China Co, Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, provides various banking products and services for retail and corporate customers in the People's Republic of China. Its Personal Banking segment offers demand, time, personal call, time/demand optional, and foreign currency deposits, as well as passbooks and certificate of deposits; micro and personal pledged, and personal business loans; payment and collection agency, various settlement, domestic remittance and exchange, cross-border remittance, personal exchange settlement and sale, and foreign currency exchange services; debit and credit cards; wealth management products and funds; and insurance agency services. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Postal Savings Bank of China Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Postal Savings Bank of China and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Wealth Alliance lowered its stake in Salesforce, Inc. (NYSE:CRM Free Report) by 0.5% during the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 12,351 shares of the CRM providers stock after selling 57 shares during the period. Wealth Alliances holdings in Salesforce were worth $2,504,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC. Other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of the company. Osterweis Capital Management Inc. grew its position in Salesforce by 463.1% during the 2nd quarter. Osterweis Capital Management Inc. now owns 3,283 shares of the CRM providers stock worth $694,000 after purchasing an additional 2,700 shares in the last quarter. Pointe Capital Management LLC grew its position in Salesforce by 370.0% during the 2nd quarter. Pointe Capital Management LLC now owns 1,551 shares of the CRM providers stock worth $328,000 after purchasing an additional 1,221 shares in the last quarter. Walkner Condon Financial Advisors LLC grew its position in Salesforce by 2.9% during the 3rd quarter. Walkner Condon Financial Advisors LLC now owns 2,633 shares of the CRM providers stock worth $534,000 after purchasing an additional 74 shares in the last quarter. Bank of Hawaii grew its position in Salesforce by 89.2% during the 2nd quarter. Bank of Hawaii now owns 5,282 shares of the CRM providers stock worth $1,116,000 after purchasing an additional 2,490 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Trivest Advisors Ltd grew its position in Salesforce by 288.6% during the 2nd quarter. Trivest Advisors Ltd now owns 952,000 shares of the CRM providers stock worth $201,120,000 after purchasing an additional 707,000 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 77.52% of the companys stock. Get Salesforce alerts: Salesforce Stock Performance Shares of CRM traded down $0.65 during trading hours on Friday, reaching $291.30. 4,369,774 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 5,152,299. The stocks fifty day moving average is $267.82 and its 200 day moving average is $232.06. The stock has a market cap of $281.98 billion, a P/E ratio of 110.80, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.86 and a beta of 1.28. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.15, a quick ratio of 1.04 and a current ratio of 1.04. Salesforce, Inc. has a 1-year low of $159.65 and a 1-year high of $295.24. Analysts Set New Price Targets Salesforce ( NYSE:CRM Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 29th. The CRM provider reported $2.11 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.05 by $0.06. The firm had revenue of $8.72 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $8.71 billion. Salesforce had a net margin of 7.63% and a return on equity of 9.19%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 11.3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $0.73 earnings per share. Equities research analysts anticipate that Salesforce, Inc. will post 6.02 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Several equities analysts have recently commented on the stock. StockNews.com cut shares of Salesforce from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a report on Friday, February 2nd. Morgan Stanley upgraded shares of Salesforce from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and boosted their price target for the company from $290.00 to $350.00 in a report on Thursday, December 21st. Royal Bank of Canada boosted their price target on shares of Salesforce from $240.00 to $285.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, November 30th. Piper Sandler boosted their price target on shares of Salesforce from $266.00 to $285.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Tuesday, January 2nd. Finally, Bank of America boosted their price target on shares of Salesforce from $280.00 to $300.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday, November 30th. Nine equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, twenty-eight have issued a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $262.64. Get Our Latest Analysis on CRM Insiders Place Their Bets In other Salesforce news, CEO Marc Benioff sold 15,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $214.87, for a total transaction of $3,223,050.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 14,921,166 shares in the company, valued at $3,206,110,938.42. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In other news, CEO Marc Benioff sold 15,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, November 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $214.87, for a total transaction of $3,223,050.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 14,921,166 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,206,110,938.42. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, insider Srinivas Tallapragada sold 10,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, February 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $285.20, for a total transaction of $2,852,000.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 60,416 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $17,230,643.20. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 1,408,178 shares of company stock worth $371,005,175 over the last quarter. Company insiders own 3.70% of the companys stock. About Salesforce (Free Report) Salesforce, Inc provides Customer Relationship Management (CRM) technology that brings companies and customers together worldwide. The company's service includes sales to store data, monitor leads and progress, forecast opportunities, gain insights through analytics and relationship intelligence, and deliver quotes, contracts, and invoices; and service that enables companies to deliver trusted and highly personalized customer service and support at scale. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CRM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Salesforce, Inc. (NYSE:CRM Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Salesforce Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Salesforce and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Davidson Investment Advisors increased its position in shares of Salesforce, Inc. (NYSE:CRM Free Report) by 1.4% in the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 98,997 shares of the CRM providers stock after acquiring an additional 1,365 shares during the period. Salesforce comprises approximately 1.3% of Davidson Investment Advisors portfolio, making the stock its 18th biggest holding. Davidson Investment Advisors holdings in Salesforce were worth $20,075,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. A number of other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Fairfield Bush & CO. increased its holdings in Salesforce by 8.7% in the first quarter. Fairfield Bush & CO. now owns 4,468 shares of the CRM providers stock worth $949,000 after buying an additional 357 shares during the last quarter. Roundview Capital LLC increased its stake in shares of Salesforce by 18.8% in the first quarter. Roundview Capital LLC now owns 24,037 shares of the CRM providers stock worth $5,104,000 after purchasing an additional 3,809 shares during the period. Covestor Ltd lifted its holdings in shares of Salesforce by 42.8% during the first quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 621 shares of the CRM providers stock worth $132,000 after buying an additional 186 shares during the last quarter. Ergoteles LLC bought a new stake in Salesforce in the 1st quarter valued at $455,000. Finally, Mackenzie Financial Corp grew its position in Salesforce by 21.3% in the 1st quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp now owns 860,950 shares of the CRM providers stock worth $182,797,000 after purchasing an additional 151,440 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 77.52% of the companys stock. Get Salesforce alerts: Salesforce Stock Up 1.1 % Shares of Salesforce stock traded up $3.11 during trading hours on Thursday, reaching $291.95. 4,487,262 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 5,181,239. The stock has a market cap of $282.61 billion, a P/E ratio of 111.01, a P/E/G ratio of 1.84 and a beta of 1.28. The company has a 50 day moving average of $267.02 and a two-hundred day moving average of $231.64. The company has a current ratio of 1.04, a quick ratio of 1.04 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.15. Salesforce, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $159.65 and a fifty-two week high of $293.11. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Salesforce ( NYSE:CRM Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, November 29th. The CRM provider reported $2.11 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.05 by $0.06. The business had revenue of $8.72 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $8.71 billion. Salesforce had a net margin of 7.63% and a return on equity of 9.19%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 11.3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $0.73 earnings per share. On average, sell-side analysts forecast that Salesforce, Inc. will post 6.02 EPS for the current fiscal year. Several brokerages recently issued reports on CRM. StockNews.com lowered Salesforce from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research note on Friday, February 2nd. Morgan Stanley upgraded Salesforce from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and increased their price target for the stock from $290.00 to $350.00 in a research report on Thursday, December 21st. Truist Financial reissued a buy rating and set a $275.00 price objective on shares of Salesforce in a report on Thursday, November 30th. Citigroup boosted their target price on shares of Salesforce from $229.00 to $247.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, November 24th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company lowered shares of Salesforce from an overweight rating to an equal weight rating and set a $280.00 price target for the company. in a report on Wednesday, December 20th. Nine analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, twenty-eight have assigned a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $262.64. Check Out Our Latest Analysis on CRM Insider Activity In other news, insider Srinivas Tallapragada sold 10,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, November 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $212.86, for a total transaction of $2,128,600.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now directly owns 58,930 shares in the company, valued at $12,543,839.80. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. In other Salesforce news, insider Srinivas Tallapragada sold 10,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, November 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $212.86, for a total transaction of $2,128,600.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 58,930 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $12,543,839.80. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, CAO Sundeep G. Reddy sold 216 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, January 23rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $278.71, for a total value of $60,201.36. Following the completion of the sale, the chief accounting officer now owns 2,869 shares in the company, valued at approximately $799,618.99. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last ninety days, insiders have sold 1,393,178 shares of company stock valued at $366,680,675. 3.70% of the stock is owned by company insiders. Salesforce Company Profile (Free Report) Salesforce, Inc provides Customer Relationship Management (CRM) technology that brings companies and customers together worldwide. The company's service includes sales to store data, monitor leads and progress, forecast opportunities, gain insights through analytics and relationship intelligence, and deliver quotes, contracts, and invoices; and service that enables companies to deliver trusted and highly personalized customer service and support at scale. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CRM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Salesforce, Inc. (NYSE:CRM Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Salesforce Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Salesforce and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. ORIX (NYSE:IX Get Free Report) was upgraded by investment analysts at StockNews.com from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note issued to investors on Thursday. Separately, TheStreet upgraded ORIX from a c rating to a b- rating in a report on Thursday, November 2nd. Get ORIX alerts: Get Our Latest Research Report on ORIX ORIX Stock Performance Shares of ORIX stock traded up $3.44 during trading on Thursday, reaching $100.91. The companys stock had a trading volume of 19,746 shares, compared to its average volume of 15,142. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.42, a quick ratio of 1.58 and a current ratio of 1.62. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $94.24 and its 200-day moving average price is $92.88. The firm has a market cap of $23.43 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.75, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.85 and a beta of 0.82. ORIX has a one year low of $79.64 and a one year high of $101.56. ORIX (NYSE:IX Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, February 7th. The real estate investment trust reported $2.66 EPS for the quarter, hitting analysts consensus estimates of $2.66. The business had revenue of $4.59 billion for the quarter. ORIX had a return on equity of 7.82% and a net margin of 10.47%. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $2.70 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts predict that ORIX will post 8.56 earnings per share for the current year. Institutional Trading of ORIX A number of hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Raymond James & Associates lifted its stake in shares of ORIX by 64.3% in the first quarter. Raymond James & Associates now owns 7,572 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $756,000 after acquiring an additional 2,964 shares during the period. Bank of New York Mellon Corp lifted its stake in ORIX by 2.6% in the first quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 11,950 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $1,193,000 after buying an additional 304 shares during the period. American Century Companies Inc. increased its holdings in shares of ORIX by 20.4% during the first quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 21,994 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $2,196,000 after acquiring an additional 3,724 shares in the last quarter. Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund bought a new stake in ORIX during the first quarter worth $60,000. Finally, Sei Investments Co. grew its holdings in ORIX by 45.3% during the first quarter. Sei Investments Co. now owns 6,198 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $619,000 after buying an additional 1,933 shares in the last quarter. 1.73% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. ORIX Company Profile (Get Free Report) ORIX Corporation provides diversified financial services in Japan, the United States, Asia, Europe, Australasia, and the Middle East. The company's Corporate Financial Services and Maintenance Leasing segment is involved in the finance and fee; leasing and rental of automobiles, electronic measuring instruments, and ICT-related equipment businesses; and provision of life insurance and environment and energy-related products and services. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for ORIX Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for ORIX and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Texas Permanent School Fund Corp cut its position in shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. (NYSE:MMC Free Report) by 1.2% during the 3rd quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm owned 102,063 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 1,214 shares during the quarter. Texas Permanent School Fund Corps holdings in Marsh & McLennan Companies were worth $19,423,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in MMC. Markel Corp increased its holdings in Marsh & McLennan Companies by 1.5% during the 1st quarter. Markel Corp now owns 618,800 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $105,456,000 after acquiring an additional 9,300 shares during the period. United Bank grew its stake in Marsh & McLennan Companies by 1.9% in the 1st quarter. United Bank now owns 7,580 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,292,000 after buying an additional 144 shares in the last quarter. Blair William & Co. IL boosted its stake in shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies by 1.9% in the 1st quarter. Blair William & Co. IL now owns 37,526 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $6,395,000 after purchasing an additional 695 shares in the last quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers boosted its stake in shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies by 43.9% in the 1st quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 4,188 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $714,000 after purchasing an additional 1,277 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Moors & Cabot Inc. raised its holdings in Marsh & McLennan Companies by 8.5% in the 1st quarter. Moors & Cabot Inc. now owns 3,066 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $523,000 after purchasing an additional 241 shares in the last quarter. 86.64% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Marsh & McLennan Companies alerts: Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of analysts have recently issued reports on MMC shares. Royal Bank of Canada raised their price target on shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies from $200.00 to $208.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a report on Friday, January 26th. Citigroup raised their price objective on shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies from $201.00 to $205.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Friday, October 20th. StockNews.com downgraded shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, December 19th. TD Cowen initiated coverage on shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies in a report on Wednesday, January 10th. They issued a market perform rating and a $189.00 price objective on the stock. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods decreased their target price on shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies from $186.00 to $185.00 and set an underperform rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, January 30th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have issued a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $202.71. Marsh & McLennan Companies Stock Performance Shares of MMC stock traded up $1.09 during mid-day trading on Thursday, reaching $196.83. The stock had a trading volume of 1,250,869 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,946,759. Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. has a 1-year low of $151.86 and a 1-year high of $202.81. The company has a current ratio of 1.10, a quick ratio of 1.08 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.96. The firm has a market cap of $97.05 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 25.99, a PEG ratio of 3.46 and a beta of 0.90. The businesss fifty day moving average is $193.35 and its 200-day moving average is $193.32. Marsh & McLennan Companies (NYSE:MMC Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, January 25th. The financial services provider reported $1.68 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.63 by $0.05. The company had revenue of $5.55 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.54 billion. Marsh & McLennan Companies had a return on equity of 33.72% and a net margin of 16.52%. Marsh & McLennan Companiess revenue for the quarter was up 10.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $1.47 earnings per share. On average, research analysts forecast that Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. will post 8.61 earnings per share for the current year. Marsh & McLennan Companies Announces Dividend The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, February 15th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, January 25th will be paid a dividend of $0.71 per share. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, January 24th. This represents a $2.84 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.44%. Marsh & McLennan Companiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 37.72%. Marsh & McLennan Companies Profile (Free Report) Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc, a professional services company, provides advice and solutions to clients in the areas of risk, strategy, and people worldwide. It operates in two segments, Risk and Insurance Services, and Consulting. The Risk and Insurance Services segment offers risk management services, such as risk advice, risk transfer, and risk control and mitigation solutions, as well as insurance and reinsurance broking, strategic advisory services, and analytics solutions; and insurance program management services. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MMC? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. (NYSE:MMC Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Marsh & McLennan Companies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Marsh & McLennan Companies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Vladimir Putin used his interview with former Fox host Tucker Carlson in Moscow, which was broadcast Thursday, to lavish praise on Donald Trump and even provide the frontrunner for the Republican presidential nomination with some free publicity. We have been the recipients of numerous insults and slurs going back a few generations of politicians. Mr. Trump was a refreshing break from that. He is very popular in Russia. Perhaps that wont do him any good, he said in reference to President Joe Biden calling his Russian counterpart a killer in March 2021. Should he win again our lines of communication would open up instantly, whereas right now we have no dialogue with President Biden. The interview, which lasted for more than two hours, included rhetorical questions and several monologues from Putin, with Carlson displaying a somewhat subliminal Republican message, in a display of publicity and propaganda that visibly satisfied both sides. The first block of the interview concerned the war in Ukraine. The two staged what appeared to be a previously agreed joke about the lead-up to the invasion of Ukraine and the motives that led Moscow to invade at the end of February 2022. Carlson asked if Russia had felt threatened, reminding Putin that he had addressed the nation at the beginning of the war about a surprise attack by the U.S. through NATO. Its not that the United States was going to launch a surprise strike on Russia, I didnt say so. Are we having a talk show or serious conversation? Putin replied to Carlsons complacent laughter. That was a good quote, said the interviewer. The spark and the supposed spontaneity of the encounter were extinguished when Putin, invited to explain the reasons for the invasion, launched into a long historical monologue, justifying Moscows inalienable right over Ukrainian territory. Putins review, stretching back to the 9th century, did not deviate an inch from what the Kremlin has previously stated: Ukraine is an artificial construction, without historical roots. In 1922, when the USSR was being established, the Bolsheviks started building the USSR and established the Soviet Ukraine, which had never existed before, Putin stated. Russian President Vladimir Putin during his interview with Tucker Carlson in Moscow. SPUTNIK (via REUTERS) Putin spent over an hour on the historical chapter, from the Ukrainian Rus to the policy of President Leonid Kuchma or the Maidan Revolution of early 2014. When did you decide [to invade Ukraine]? Carlson asked. Initially, it was the coup in Ukraine that provoked the conflict. Putin replied, adding that Moscow was not willing to allow neo-Nazism next door. One of the pretexts for the special military operation, as Russia officially calls the war, is the denazification of the elements that, in in the Kremlins opinion, have dominated the Kyiv regime since the Maidan. Carlson threw in another rhetorical question: Why didnt you make this case for the first 22 years as president, that Ukraine wasnt a real country? Putin replied: The Soviet Ukraine was given a great deal of territory that had never belonged to it, including the Black Sea region, which includes Crimea, illegally annexed by Moscow in 2014. At some point, when Russia received them as an outcome of the Russo-Turkish wars, they were called New Russia or Novorossiya. But that does not matter. What matters is that Lenin, the founder of the Soviet State, established Ukraine that way. After World War II, Romania and Hungary had some of their lands taken away and given to the Ukraine and they still remain part of Ukraine. So in this sense, we have every reason to affirm that Ukraine is an artificial state that was shaped at Stalins will. On the threat posed by NATO, he cited the bombing of Belgrade in 1998, in violation of international law and the UN Charter. It was the United States that let the genie out of the bottle. He also said he asked former U.S. president Bill Clinton about the prospect of joining NATO, and had proposed a joint missile defense system involving the United States, Russia and Europe. I suggested working together. They said it was very interesting. They asked me are you serious? I said, Absolutely. If [Clinton] had said yes [to Russia applying to join NATO], the process of rapprochement would have commenced, and eventually it might have happened if we had seen some sincere wish on the side of our partners. But it didnt happen. Well, no means no, okay, fine. On the hypothetical existence of contacts with Washington for a negotiated end to the war, the Russian presidents message to the White House was clear: If you really want to stop fighting, you need to stop supplying weapons. It will be over within a few weeks, he said, adding he could not remember the last time he had spoken with Biden. All in all, he was more candid than usual about how an end to the war may be decided: not necessarily with a military victory, but with an agreement with the West. Russia has never rejected negotiations, he said, and would welcome any effort by Washington to discuss a peace deal for Ukraine. We have contacts through various agencies, Putin said, adding that peace talks were almost finalized in the early stages of the invasion, when Russia withdrew its troops from around Kyiv, but that Ukraine threw away all these agreements and obeyed the instructions of Western countries, European countries and the United States to fight Russia to the bitter end. Texas Permanent School Fund Corp reduced its holdings in Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM Free Report) by 1.6% during the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 320,128 shares of the companys stock after selling 5,353 shares during the period. Texas Permanent School Fund Corps holdings in Philip Morris International were worth $29,637,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the business. Financial Gravity Asset Management Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Philip Morris International in the second quarter worth approximately $753,000. PCA Investment Advisory Services Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Philip Morris International in the second quarter worth approximately $27,000. Spotlight Asset Group Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Philip Morris International in the second quarter worth approximately $37,000. DHJJ Financial Advisors Ltd. acquired a new stake in shares of Philip Morris International in the third quarter worth approximately $36,000. Finally, Legacy Financial Group LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Philip Morris International in the third quarter worth approximately $37,000. 79.70% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Philip Morris International alerts: Philip Morris International Stock Down 2.7 % NYSE:PM traded down $2.43 on Thursday, reaching $89.01. The companys stock had a trading volume of 9,236,009 shares, compared to its average volume of 5,064,458. Philip Morris International Inc. has a 12-month low of $87.23 and a 12-month high of $103.79. The firm has a market cap of $138.18 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.76, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.45 and a beta of 0.63. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $93.32 and a 200 day moving average price of $93.61. Philip Morris International Announces Dividend Philip Morris International ( NYSE:PM Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, February 8th. The company reported $1.36 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.44 by ($0.08). Philip Morris International had a net margin of 9.62% and a negative return on equity of 129.48%. The business had revenue of $9.05 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $8.99 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $1.39 EPS. Philip Morris Internationals revenue for the quarter was up 11.0% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities research analysts expect that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 6.08 EPS for the current fiscal year. The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, January 10th. Investors of record on Thursday, December 21st were issued a $1.30 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Wednesday, December 20th. This represents a $5.20 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 5.84%. Philip Morris Internationals dividend payout ratio is presently 100.97%. Insider Activity at Philip Morris International In related news, insider Wilde Frederic De sold 10,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Tuesday, November 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $94.25, for a total value of $942,500.00. Following the sale, the insider now owns 198,447 shares in the company, valued at approximately $18,703,629.75. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. Company insiders own 0.13% of the companys stock. Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of analysts have recently issued reports on PM shares. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price target on Philip Morris International from $110.00 to $115.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, November 29th. UBS Group lowered Philip Morris International from a buy rating to a sell rating and lowered their price objective for the stock from $105.00 to $86.50 in a research note on Tuesday, January 23rd. Redburn Atlantic initiated coverage on Philip Morris International in a research note on Thursday, November 16th. They set a neutral rating and a $95.00 price objective on the stock. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group lowered their price objective on Philip Morris International from $111.00 to $105.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, October 13th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, two have assigned a hold rating and six have assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $107.39. View Our Latest Report on Philip Morris International Philip Morris International Profile (Free Report) Philip Morris International Inc operates as a tobacco company working to delivers a smoke-free future and evolving portfolio for the long-term to include products outside of the tobacco and nicotine sector. The company's product portfolio primarily consists of cigarettes and smoke-free products, including heat-not-burn, vapor, and oral nicotine products primarily under the IQOS and ZYN brands; and consumer accessories, such as lighters and matches. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Philip Morris International Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Philip Morris International and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Texas Permanent School Fund Corp trimmed its position in Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (NYSE:TMO Free Report) by 1.4% in the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 79,751 shares of the medical research companys stock after selling 1,136 shares during the quarter. Texas Permanent School Fund Corps holdings in Thermo Fisher Scientific were worth $40,368,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of TMO. DMC Group LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific by 16.5% in the third quarter. DMC Group LLC now owns 592 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $300,000 after purchasing an additional 84 shares during the period. Montchanin Asset Management LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific by 1.1% in the second quarter. Montchanin Asset Management LLC now owns 4,550 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $2,374,000 after purchasing an additional 50 shares during the period. Check Capital Management Inc. CA purchased a new stake in shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific in the third quarter valued at approximately $219,000. Tower Bridge Advisors lifted its holdings in Thermo Fisher Scientific by 0.5% during the third quarter. Tower Bridge Advisors now owns 33,046 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $16,727,000 after buying an additional 155 shares during the period. Finally, Orion Portfolio Solutions LLC lifted its holdings in Thermo Fisher Scientific by 7,323.0% during the second quarter. Orion Portfolio Solutions LLC now owns 56,860 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $29,667,000 after buying an additional 56,094 shares during the period. 87.06% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Thermo Fisher Scientific alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes A number of equities analysts have recently issued reports on TMO shares. Wells Fargo & Company raised Thermo Fisher Scientific from an underweight rating to an equal weight rating and set a $475.00 price target on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, October 25th. Citigroup upped their price target on Thermo Fisher Scientific from $530.00 to $575.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Monday, December 11th. Raymond James upped their price target on Thermo Fisher Scientific from $515.00 to $605.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, February 1st. Morgan Stanley reduced their price target on Thermo Fisher Scientific from $640.00 to $600.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, October 24th. Finally, Sanford C. Bernstein reissued a market perform rating on shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific in a research report on Monday, January 8th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $596.00. Insider Transactions at Thermo Fisher Scientific In other news, CEO Marc N. Casper sold 10,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, February 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $555.63, for a total transaction of $5,556,300.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 49,155 shares in the company, valued at approximately $27,311,992.65. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. In related news, SVP Michael A. Boxer sold 14,566 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, February 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $562.00, for a total value of $8,186,092.00. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 12,901 shares of the companys stock, valued at $7,250,362. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, CEO Marc N. Casper sold 10,000 shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific stock in a transaction on Wednesday, February 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $555.63, for a total transaction of $5,556,300.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 49,155 shares in the company, valued at $27,311,992.65. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders own 0.32% of the companys stock. Thermo Fisher Scientific Price Performance Thermo Fisher Scientific stock traded down $1.41 during midday trading on Thursday, reaching $550.90. The company had a trading volume of 1,549,265 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,007,462. The company has a market capitalization of $212.85 billion, a P/E ratio of 35.66, a P/E/G ratio of 2.35 and a beta of 0.80. Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. has a 12-month low of $415.60 and a 12-month high of $593.17. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $531.13 and its 200-day simple moving average is $514.27. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.67, a current ratio of 1.75 and a quick ratio of 1.39. Thermo Fisher Scientific (NYSE:TMO Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, January 31st. The medical research company reported $5.67 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $5.64 by $0.03. The firm had revenue of $10.89 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $10.73 billion. Thermo Fisher Scientific had a net margin of 13.99% and a return on equity of 18.78%. Thermo Fisher Scientifics quarterly revenue was down 4.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the company posted $5.40 EPS. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. will post 21.57 EPS for the current year. Thermo Fisher Scientific announced that its board has approved a share repurchase program on Tuesday, November 14th that authorizes the company to buyback $4.00 billion in outstanding shares. This buyback authorization authorizes the medical research company to reacquire up to 2.2% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares buyback programs are typically an indication that the companys management believes its shares are undervalued. Thermo Fisher Scientific Company Profile (Free Report) Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc provides life sciences solutions, analytical instruments, specialty diagnostics, and laboratory products and biopharma services in the United States and internationally. The company's Life Sciences Solutions segment offers reagents, instruments, and consumables for biological and medical research, discovery, and production of drugs and vaccines, as well as diagnosis of infections and diseases; and solutions include biosciences, genetic sciences, clinical next-generation sequencing, bio production to pharmaceutical, biotechnology, agricultural, clinical, healthcare, academic, and government markets. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Thermo Fisher Scientific Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Thermo Fisher Scientific and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Carson Advisory Inc. reduced its position in The Southern Company (NYSE:SO Free Report) by 0.3% during the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 70,767 shares of the utilities providers stock after selling 206 shares during the period. Southern makes up approximately 4.0% of Carson Advisory Inc.s holdings, making the stock its 2nd largest holding. Carson Advisory Inc.s holdings in Southern were worth $4,580,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the company. VisionPoint Advisory Group LLC acquired a new position in shares of Southern in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $27,000. Intrepid Capital Management Inc. acquired a new position in Southern during the 2nd quarter worth $30,000. Sanctuary Wealth Management L.L.C. acquired a new position in Southern during the 4th quarter worth $34,000. VitalStone Financial LLC acquired a new position in Southern during the 2nd quarter worth $35,000. Finally, RVW Wealth LLC bought a new stake in shares of Southern in the 3rd quarter worth $35,000. 62.85% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Southern alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes SO has been the subject of several analyst reports. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their target price on Southern from $69.00 to $72.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a report on Wednesday, November 29th. Citigroup started coverage on Southern in a research report on Friday, December 8th. They set a buy rating and a $82.00 target price for the company. Morgan Stanley raised their target price on Southern from $66.00 to $67.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Tuesday, November 21st. Scotiabank downgraded Southern from a sector outperform rating to a sector perform rating and set a $78.00 target price for the company. in a research report on Friday, November 3rd. Finally, Barclays cut their price objective on Southern from $68.00 to $67.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, January 17th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have assigned a hold rating, five have issued a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Southern presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $74.00. Southern Stock Down 0.0 % SO traded down $0.01 on Thursday, hitting $66.94. 3,794,758 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 4,480,269. The Southern Company has a 12 month low of $61.56 and a 12 month high of $75.80. The company has a market cap of $73.01 billion, a PE ratio of 24.03, a PEG ratio of 4.21 and a beta of 0.50. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.59, a quick ratio of 0.63 and a current ratio of 0.84. The stocks fifty day moving average is $70.27 and its 200-day moving average is $69.01. Southern Dividend Announcement The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, March 6th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, February 20th will be given a $0.70 dividend. This represents a $2.80 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.18%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, February 16th. Southerns payout ratio is 101.08%. Insider Activity In related news, CEO Stephen E. Kuczynski sold 5,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, January 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of $71.99, for a total transaction of $359,950.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 101,284 shares of the companys stock, valued at $7,291,435.16. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. In other Southern news, insider David P. Poroch sold 10,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, November 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $69.39, for a total transaction of $693,900.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 28,691 shares in the company, valued at $1,990,868.49. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, CEO Stephen E. Kuczynski sold 5,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Wednesday, January 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of $71.99, for a total value of $359,950.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 101,284 shares of the companys stock, valued at $7,291,435.16. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last quarter, insiders have sold 35,998 shares of company stock valued at $2,518,763. 0.28% of the stock is owned by insiders. Southern Profile (Free Report) The Southern Company, through its subsidiaries, engages in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity. It operates through three segments: Gas Distribution Operations, Gas Pipeline Investments, and Gas Marketing Services. The company also develops, constructs, acquires, owns, and manages power generation assets, including renewable energy projects and sells electricity in the wholesale market; and distributes natural gas in Illinois, Georgia, Virginia, and Tennessee, as well as provides gas marketing services, gas distribution operations, and gas pipeline investments operations. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding SO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for The Southern Company (NYSE:SO Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Southern Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Southern and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Thomson Reuters (NYSE:TRI Get Free Report) (TSE:TRI) announced its earnings results on Thursday. The business services provider reported $0.98 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.92 by $0.06, Briefing.com reports. The firm had revenue of $1.82 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.82 billion. Thomson Reuters had a return on equity of 13.05% and a net margin of 34.09%. The companys revenue was up 2.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $0.76 EPS. Thomson Reuters updated its FY 2024 guidance to EPS. Thomson Reuters Stock Performance TRI stock traded up $3.07 on Friday, hitting $159.00. The company had a trading volume of 323,337 shares, compared to its average volume of 292,001. Thomson Reuters has a 12-month low of $115.87 and a 12-month high of $159.13. The company has a current ratio of 1.05, a quick ratio of 1.05 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.26. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $145.61 and its 200 day simple moving average is $134.78. The stock has a market cap of $72.02 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 31.79, a P/E/G ratio of 3.58 and a beta of 0.65. Get Thomson Reuters alerts: Thomson Reuters Increases Dividend The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 8th. Investors of record on Wednesday, February 21st will be issued a $0.54 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, February 20th. This represents a $2.16 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.36%. This is a boost from Thomson Reuterss previous quarterly dividend of $0.49. Thomson Reuterss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 39.50%. Analyst Ratings Changes TRI has been the subject of several research reports. Barclays cut their target price on shares of Thomson Reuters from $135.00 to $130.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, November 2nd. CIBC upped their price objective on shares of Thomson Reuters from $130.00 to $138.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, January 11th. Royal Bank of Canada upped their price objective on shares of Thomson Reuters from $149.00 to $153.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research note on Friday. Scotiabank upped their price objective on shares of Thomson Reuters from $142.00 to $159.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research note on Friday. Finally, Morgan Stanley lowered their price objective on shares of Thomson Reuters from $135.00 to $130.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, November 2nd. Eleven investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Thomson Reuters currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $150.71. View Our Latest Report on Thomson Reuters Institutional Investors Weigh In On Thomson Reuters Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Belpointe Asset Management LLC boosted its holdings in Thomson Reuters by 134.9% in the first quarter. Belpointe Asset Management LLC now owns 195 shares of the business services providers stock worth $25,000 after purchasing an additional 112 shares during the last quarter. Advisory Services Network LLC boosted its stake in shares of Thomson Reuters by 209.6% during the 1st quarter. Advisory Services Network LLC now owns 353 shares of the business services providers stock worth $46,000 after acquiring an additional 239 shares during the last quarter. SRS Capital Advisors Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Thomson Reuters by 2,647.4% during the 1st quarter. SRS Capital Advisors Inc. now owns 522 shares of the business services providers stock worth $68,000 after acquiring an additional 503 shares during the last quarter. Vestor Capital LLC boosted its stake in shares of Thomson Reuters by 161.6% during the 2nd quarter. Vestor Capital LLC now owns 1,245 shares of the business services providers stock worth $168,000 after acquiring an additional 769 shares during the last quarter. Finally, IFP Advisors Inc boosted its stake in shares of Thomson Reuters by 100.0% during the 2nd quarter. IFP Advisors Inc now owns 1,470 shares of the business services providers stock worth $198,000 after acquiring an additional 735 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 17.31% of the companys stock. Thomson Reuters Company Profile (Get Free Report) Thomson Reuters Corporation engages in the provision of business information services in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia Pacific. It operates in five segments: Legal Professionals, Corporates, Tax & Accounting Professionals, Reuters News, and Global Print. The Legal Professionals segment offers research and workflow products focusing on legal research and integrated legal workflow solutions that combine content, tools, and analytics to law firms and governments. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Thomson Reuters Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Thomson Reuters and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Texas Permanent School Fund Corp lowered its position in Visa Inc. (NYSE:V Free Report) by 2.2% in the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 332,029 shares of the credit-card processors stock after selling 7,325 shares during the period. Visa comprises approximately 0.7% of Texas Permanent School Fund Corps holdings, making the stock its 15th largest position. Texas Permanent School Fund Corps holdings in Visa were worth $76,370,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of V. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC lifted its holdings in Visa by 116,608.6% in the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 24,504,130 shares of the credit-card processors stock worth $5,090,978,000 after buying an additional 24,483,134 shares in the last quarter. Norges Bank bought a new stake in shares of Visa during the 4th quarter valued at about $3,067,232,000. Morgan Stanley grew its position in shares of Visa by 13.0% during the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 51,122,866 shares of the credit-card processors stock valued at $10,621,287,000 after buying an additional 5,864,340 shares during the last quarter. Capital World Investors grew its position in shares of Visa by 50.8% during the 2nd quarter. Capital World Investors now owns 16,012,583 shares of the credit-card processors stock valued at $3,802,668,000 after buying an additional 5,391,512 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Cibc World Markets Corp grew its position in shares of Visa by 1,634.8% during the 2nd quarter. Cibc World Markets Corp now owns 3,938,026 shares of the credit-card processors stock valued at $935,202,000 after buying an additional 3,711,026 shares during the last quarter. 81.35% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Visa alerts: Insider Activity In other Visa news, insider Rajat Taneja sold 9,200 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, November 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $250.01, for a total value of $2,300,092.00. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 232,112 shares in the company, valued at $58,030,321.12. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this link. In other news, CAO Peter M. Andreski sold 2,615 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, February 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $278.88, for a total transaction of $729,271.20. Following the transaction, the chief accounting officer now directly owns 4,898 shares in the company, valued at $1,365,954.24. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, insider Rajat Taneja sold 9,200 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, November 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of $250.01, for a total transaction of $2,300,092.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 232,112 shares of the companys stock, valued at $58,030,321.12. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last three months, insiders have sold 97,472 shares of company stock worth $25,695,420. Corporate insiders own 0.19% of the companys stock. Visa Stock Performance V traded down $3.06 during trading on Thursday, hitting $275.80. The stock had a trading volume of 5,832,874 shares, compared to its average volume of 5,638,383. The firm has a market cap of $506.51 billion, a PE ratio of 31.77, a P/E/G ratio of 1.91 and a beta of 0.97. Visa Inc. has a 12 month low of $208.76 and a 12 month high of $279.99. The company has a current ratio of 1.45, a quick ratio of 1.45 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.54. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $263.79 and a 200-day simple moving average of $248.83. Visa (NYSE:V Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, January 25th. The credit-card processor reported $2.41 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.34 by $0.07. Visa had a net margin of 53.92% and a return on equity of 50.02%. The firm had revenue of $8.63 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $8.55 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $2.18 EPS. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 9.3% on a year-over-year basis. Analysts expect that Visa Inc. will post 9.91 EPS for the current year. Visa Announces Dividend The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 1st. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 9th will be given a dividend of $0.52 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, February 8th. This represents a $2.08 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.75%. Visas dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 23.94%. Analyst Ratings Changes V has been the subject of several recent analyst reports. Raymond James increased their price objective on shares of Visa from $287.00 to $311.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Friday, January 26th. William Blair reiterated an outperform rating on shares of Visa in a report on Friday, January 26th. Mizuho increased their price objective on shares of Visa from $243.00 to $265.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, January 18th. Royal Bank of Canada increased their target price on shares of Visa from $290.00 to $309.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, January 26th. Finally, Citigroup increased their target price on shares of Visa from $296.00 to $306.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, January 18th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seventeen have given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $290.55. Get Our Latest Stock Report on Visa About Visa (Free Report) Visa Inc operates as a payment technology company in the United States and internationally. The company operates VisaNet, a transaction processing network that enables authorization, clearing, and settlement of payment transactions. It also offers credit, debit, and prepaid card products; tap to pay, tokenization, and click to pay services; Visa Direct, a solution that facilitates the delivery of funds to eligible cards, deposit accounts, and digital wallets; Visa B2B Connect, a multilateral business-to-business cross-border payments network; Visa Cross-Border Solution, a cross-border consumer payments solution; and Visa DPS that provides a range of value-added services, including fraud mitigation, dispute management, data analytics, campaign management, a suite of digital solutions, and contact center services. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Visa Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Visa and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Wealth Alliance boosted its holdings in shares of iShares National Muni Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:MUB Free Report) by 104.9% in the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 30,187 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after acquiring an additional 15,458 shares during the quarter. Wealth Alliances holdings in iShares National Muni Bond ETF were worth $3,095,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in the stock. FLC Capital Advisors grew its holdings in iShares National Muni Bond ETF by 3.1% during the 2nd quarter. FLC Capital Advisors now owns 3,147 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $336,000 after acquiring an additional 95 shares during the last quarter. Gladstone Institutional Advisory LLC lifted its stake in iShares National Muni Bond ETF by 2.5% in the first quarter. Gladstone Institutional Advisory LLC now owns 4,013 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $432,000 after acquiring an additional 98 shares during the last quarter. Vista Investment Management lifted its position in iShares National Muni Bond ETF by 4.5% during the first quarter. Vista Investment Management now owns 2,282 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $250,000 after acquiring an additional 99 shares during the last quarter. WASHINGTON TRUST Co increased its holdings in shares of iShares National Muni Bond ETF by 20.5% during the second quarter. WASHINGTON TRUST Co now owns 587 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $63,000 after purchasing an additional 100 shares during the period. Finally, Trustmark National Bank Trust Department lifted its holdings in shares of iShares National Muni Bond ETF by 3.5% during the 2nd quarter. Trustmark National Bank Trust Department now owns 2,959 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $316,000 after acquiring an additional 100 shares during the period. Get iShares National Muni Bond ETF alerts: iShares National Muni Bond ETF Trading Up 0.1 % Shares of NYSEARCA MUB traded up $0.09 during mid-day trading on Friday, hitting $107.71. 3,561,290 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 4,626,707. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $107.93 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $105.47. iShares National Muni Bond ETF has a twelve month low of $100.78 and a twelve month high of $108.82. iShares National Muni Bond ETF Profile iShares National AMT-Free Muni Bond ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares S&P National AMT-Free Municipal Bond Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the S&P National AMT-Free Municipal Bond Index (the Index). Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MUB? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares National Muni Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:MUB Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares National Muni Bond ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares National Muni Bond ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Wealth Alliance grew its stake in iShares Europe ETF (NYSEARCA:IEV Free Report) by 11.5% in the third quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 40,989 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 4,238 shares during the quarter. Wealth Alliance owned about 0.12% of iShares Europe ETF worth $1,956,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Baystate Wealth Management LLC lifted its position in shares of iShares Europe ETF by 511.3% during the 3rd quarter. Baystate Wealth Management LLC now owns 758 shares of the companys stock worth $36,000 after buying an additional 634 shares during the last quarter. Coastal Investment Advisors Inc. acquired a new position in iShares Europe ETF during the second quarter worth approximately $39,000. Advisors Preferred LLC purchased a new position in iShares Europe ETF in the second quarter valued at approximately $40,000. Spire Wealth Management raised its holdings in shares of iShares Europe ETF by 113.1% during the 2nd quarter. Spire Wealth Management now owns 895 shares of the companys stock valued at $45,000 after buying an additional 475 shares during the period. Finally, Larson Financial Group LLC acquired a new stake in shares of iShares Europe ETF during the third quarter valued at about $45,000. Get iShares Europe ETF alerts: iShares Europe ETF Stock Performance Shares of NYSEARCA IEV traded up $0.15 during midday trading on Friday, hitting $52.51. The companys stock had a trading volume of 151,426 shares, compared to its average volume of 343,022. The firms fifty day moving average price is $52.05 and its 200-day moving average price is $49.99. iShares Europe ETF has a 1-year low of $45.43 and a 1-year high of $53.15. The firm has a market cap of $1.76 billion, a P/E ratio of 14.45 and a beta of 0.92. iShares Europe ETF Profile iShares Europe ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares S&P Europe 350 Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the S&P Europe 350 (the Index). The Index measures the performance of the stocks of companies in the countries, which includes Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding IEV? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares Europe ETF (NYSEARCA:IEV Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares Europe ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Europe ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Wesleyan Assurance Society cut its stake in Bristol-Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY Free Report) by 15.9% in the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 69,303 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 13,140 shares during the period. Wesleyan Assurance Societys holdings in Bristol-Myers Squibb were worth $4,024,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the company. Herold Advisors Inc. grew its stake in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb by 3.2% in the third quarter. Herold Advisors Inc. now owns 33,668 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,954,000 after buying an additional 1,051 shares in the last quarter. Wealth Architects LLC lifted its stake in Bristol-Myers Squibb by 4.8% in the 2nd quarter. Wealth Architects LLC now owns 8,012 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $512,000 after purchasing an additional 366 shares during the last quarter. Osterweis Capital Management Inc. increased its position in Bristol-Myers Squibb by 69.6% during the second quarter. Osterweis Capital Management Inc. now owns 5,049 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $323,000 after buying an additional 2,072 shares during the last quarter. Kestra Private Wealth Services LLC raised its stake in Bristol-Myers Squibb by 9.5% in the third quarter. Kestra Private Wealth Services LLC now owns 139,811 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $8,115,000 after buying an additional 12,121 shares during the period. Finally, Metis Global Partners LLC lifted its position in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb by 14.8% in the third quarter. Metis Global Partners LLC now owns 101,772 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $5,907,000 after buying an additional 13,122 shares during the last quarter. 74.98% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Bristol-Myers Squibb alerts: Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of research firms have commented on BMY. Cantor Fitzgerald cut shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb from an overweight rating to a neutral rating and reduced their price objective for the stock from $68.00 to $55.00 in a research report on Wednesday, November 15th. HSBC upgraded Bristol-Myers Squibb from a reduce rating to a hold rating and cut their price target for the company from $55.00 to $53.00 in a research note on Friday, October 27th. BMO Capital Markets cut Bristol-Myers Squibb from an outperform rating to a market perform rating and set a $60.00 price objective for the company. in a report on Friday, October 27th. Barclays decreased their price target on Bristol-Myers Squibb from $60.00 to $51.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, October 27th. Finally, William Blair cut shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb from an outperform rating to a market perform rating in a research report on Friday, October 27th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, fifteen have assigned a hold rating and four have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $61.17. Bristol-Myers Squibb Trading Up 1.9 % NYSE BMY traded up $0.94 on Friday, reaching $49.65. The company had a trading volume of 10,767,804 shares, compared to its average volume of 16,086,714. The firm has a market cap of $101.03 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 12.74, a P/E/G ratio of 1.44 and a beta of 0.38. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.11, a current ratio of 1.18 and a quick ratio of 1.07. Bristol-Myers Squibb has a fifty-two week low of $47.58 and a fifty-two week high of $73.47. The business has a 50 day moving average of $50.53 and a two-hundred day moving average of $54.89. Bristol-Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Friday, February 2nd. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.70 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.55 by $0.15. The company had revenue of $11.48 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $11.19 billion. Bristol-Myers Squibb had a return on equity of 50.33% and a net margin of 17.83%. The firms quarterly revenue was up .6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $1.82 earnings per share. Analysts forecast that Bristol-Myers Squibb will post 6.75 EPS for the current year. Bristol-Myers Squibb Increases Dividend The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, February 1st. Shareholders of record on Friday, January 5th were issued a dividend of $0.60 per share. This is an increase from Bristol-Myers Squibbs previous quarterly dividend of $0.57. This represents a $2.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.83%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, January 4th. Bristol-Myers Squibbs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 62.18%. Bristol-Myers Squibb declared that its board has authorized a stock buyback program on Thursday, December 7th that allows the company to repurchase $3.00 billion in outstanding shares. This repurchase authorization allows the biopharmaceutical company to buy up to 2.9% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares repurchase programs are typically an indication that the companys management believes its shares are undervalued. Insider Transactions at Bristol-Myers Squibb In other Bristol-Myers Squibb news, Director Theodore R. Samuels II bought 8,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, November 20th. The stock was acquired at an average price of $49.81 per share, with a total value of $423,385.00. Following the completion of the purchase, the director now directly owns 35,500 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,768,255. The purchase was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. In other news, CEO Christopher S. Boerner acquired 2,000 shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb stock in a transaction on Tuesday, December 5th. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $49.78 per share, with a total value of $99,560.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 82,672 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,115,412.16. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, Director Theodore R. Samuels II bought 8,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 20th. The stock was acquired at an average price of $49.81 per share, for a total transaction of $423,385.00. Following the purchase, the director now directly owns 35,500 shares in the company, valued at $1,768,255. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. In the last ninety days, insiders acquired 13,571 shares of company stock valued at $672,994. Corporate insiders own 0.09% of the companys stock. Bristol-Myers Squibb Company Profile (Free Report) Bristol-Myers Squibb Company discovers, develops, licenses, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products worldwide. It offers products for hematology, oncology, cardiovascular, immunology, fibrotic, and neuroscience diseases. The company's products include Eliquis, an oral inhibitor for reduction in risk of stroke/systemic embolism in NVAF, and for the treatment of DVT/PE; Opdivo for anti-cancer indications; Pomalyst/Imnovid indicated for patients with multiple myeloma; Orencia for adult patients with active RA and psoriatic arthritis; and Sprycel for the treatment of Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Bristol-Myers Squibb Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bristol-Myers Squibb and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Wesleyan Assurance Society purchased a new stake in The Charles Schwab Co. (NYSE:SCHW Free Report) during the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm purchased 1,250 shares of the financial services providers stock, valued at approximately $69,000. A number of other hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in SCHW. State Street Corp raised its holdings in shares of Charles Schwab by 0.7% in the 2nd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 60,391,016 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $3,422,963,000 after purchasing an additional 398,367 shares in the last quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA increased its holdings in shares of Charles Schwab by 26.3% in the third quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 29,775,952 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,634,700,000 after buying an additional 6,195,934 shares in the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC lifted its position in shares of Charles Schwab by 1.5% during the 1st quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 27,050,168 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,413,244,000 after acquiring an additional 391,238 shares during the last quarter. Morgan Stanley boosted its stake in shares of Charles Schwab by 62.5% during the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 22,255,649 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,853,005,000 after acquiring an additional 8,563,389 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Flossbach Von Storch AG grew its holdings in shares of Charles Schwab by 10.3% in the 2nd quarter. Flossbach Von Storch AG now owns 18,326,287 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,038,734,000 after acquiring an additional 1,706,438 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 81.61% of the companys stock. Get Charles Schwab alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of equities analysts recently weighed in on the company. Redburn Atlantic began coverage on Charles Schwab in a research report on Friday, December 1st. They issued a sell rating and a $52.00 price target for the company. Barclays dropped their target price on shares of Charles Schwab from $68.00 to $64.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, January 18th. JMP Securities restated a market outperform rating and issued a $77.00 price target on shares of Charles Schwab in a research report on Thursday, January 18th. UBS Group increased their target price on Charles Schwab from $72.00 to $82.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Friday, December 15th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. lowered their price target on Charles Schwab from $92.00 to $85.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, October 17th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have given a hold rating and seven have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Charles Schwab presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $69.69. Insider Activity In other Charles Schwab news, Chairman Charles R. Schwab sold 16,390 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, January 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $63.94, for a total transaction of $1,047,976.60. Following the completion of the transaction, the chairman now owns 61,331,688 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,921,548,130.72. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. In other Charles Schwab news, CFO Peter B. Crawford sold 4,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, January 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $64.49, for a total value of $257,960.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now owns 37,611 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,425,533.39. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, Chairman Charles R. Schwab sold 16,390 shares of Charles Schwab stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, January 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $63.94, for a total value of $1,047,976.60. Following the sale, the chairman now directly owns 61,331,688 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,921,548,130.72. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 43,760 shares of company stock valued at $2,731,159 over the last 90 days. 6.60% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Charles Schwab Stock Up 1.0 % NYSE SCHW traded up $0.65 during trading on Friday, reaching $63.12. The companys stock had a trading volume of 3,473,672 shares, compared to its average volume of 8,401,735. The company has a current ratio of 0.66, a quick ratio of 0.66 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.87. The stock has a market capitalization of $111.83 billion, a PE ratio of 24.87, a PEG ratio of 3.21 and a beta of 0.99. The Charles Schwab Co. has a 1-year low of $45.00 and a 1-year high of $81.56. The business has a 50-day moving average price of $65.52 and a 200-day moving average price of $60.14. Charles Schwab (NYSE:SCHW Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, January 17th. The financial services provider reported $0.68 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.64 by $0.04. Charles Schwab had a net margin of 26.90% and a return on equity of 22.07%. The business had revenue of $4.46 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.49 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $1.07 EPS. Charles Schwabs quarterly revenue was down 18.9% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, research analysts forecast that The Charles Schwab Co. will post 3.42 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Charles Schwab Dividend Announcement The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, February 23rd. Shareholders of record on Friday, February 9th will be issued a dividend of $0.25 per share. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, February 8th. This represents a $1.00 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.58%. Charles Schwabs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 39.37%. Charles Schwab Company Profile (Free Report) The Charles Schwab Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a savings and loan holding company that provides wealth management, securities brokerage, banking, asset management, custody, and financial advisory services. The company operates in two segments, Investor Services and Advisor Services. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding SCHW? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for The Charles Schwab Co. (NYSE:SCHW Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Charles Schwab Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Charles Schwab and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. The drive to use his privileged position to help others has always been very present in the life of Christian Bale. The Wales-born 50-year-old actor experienced it at home, where he watched his father, David Bale, who protested and shouted at Margaret Thatcher. As a child I didnt really understand what he did, but I loved it, and I admired how he went out of his way for others, he remembers. Beyond donating money to causes here and there, Bale has gotten directly involved with one by creating a community for foster children where siblings can stay together instead of being separated. The project is a small village of sorts in Palmdale, California, in which he will invest $22 million. The winner of the Oscar for best supporting actor for The Fighter broke ground on the project on Wednesday, although work will not be complete until 2025. Located next to a park and near a shopping area, this small village, which will include a dozen homes, two studio apartments for transitional housing and a community center, is located in Palmdale, a city of about 150,000 located 60 miles north of L.A., and it will be the first of its kind in California. The project took shape as part of an organization called Together California, which Bale created together with Tim McCormick, who was executive director of Childrens Villages in the United States for almost two decades until a couple of months ago, when he left to join Bale; and with Eric Esrailian, a professor of medicine at the University of California who is also a philanthropist and a well-known figure a few months ago he signed an open letter with Kim Kardashian to ask Joe Biden to seek a resolution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and its impact on the Armenian population. With our Together California model, [the village] is something absolutely new, totally transformative and something completely needed. Imagine the absolute pain and the trauma of losing your parents or being torn from your parents, and then losing your brothers and sisters on top of that, thats no way to treat kids, Bale told The Hollywood Reporter at the ceremony to break ground. And so, we will be the hub for that. I hope that this village will be the first of many, and I hope that people, Californians and Angelenos, know to come join us in opening our eyes to whats happening right under our noses. These are our children, and we must help our children. Sibi Blazic and Christian Bale breaking ground in Palmdale, California, on February 7, 2024. Robin L Marshall (Getty Images) In addition to Sibi Blazic a stunt performer who has been married to Bale for a quarter of a century; the couple has two children, Luka and Joseph various political and child welfare officials from state and federal agencies were present on Wednesday. These included Kathryn Barger, the recently re-elected Los Angeles County supervisor, who explained that Bale set many conditions so that the location of the project would be appropriate. You cant just pick a place. Youve got to walk around, see what it feels like. How far is it to school? Is it practical? Where are the local stores? I was just doing all of that. I get obsessed and I get into details. I get very myopic about it all. I absolutely wanted to walk the streets and find out, said the actor. Who does that nowadays? Who takes the time to understand? Barger reflected. This is going to be one of the most important projects we work on in L.A. County as a place of transforming youth. Between shovels and tractors, Dr. Esrailian confessed that there were friends from Hollywood who told him thats a lot of money for only 70 kids. But its 70 kids or 80 kids forever, and if even one of those children ends up having an amazing life and potentially contributes to society and this village made it possible for them, I think its a bargain, he said. Among the investors are some generous donors, including part of the Bale family, but also his agent, Patrick Whitesell (ex-husband of Lauren Sanchez, now Jeff Bezos fiancee) and other Hollywood stars such as Leonardo DiCaprio. Before I started doing this, I was writing checks for various charities that I support around the world, and theyre wonderful, and Ill continue to do that. But I want to be more involved. I want my kids to be more involved. We are going to be able to come and touch the homes and the buildings and actually see the difference that were able to make in childrens lives. That is just priceless, said Bale, who intends for this to be just the first of his villages and to create more in California and elsewhere in the country. You are already a Moneycontrol Pro user. OK Adrija Chatterjee is an Assistant Editor at Moneycontrol. She has been tracking and reporting on finance and trade ministries for over eight years. Ashwin Mohan is Editor (Deals) at Moneycontrol and leads the M&A, private equity and equity capital market transactions coverage. He anchors the video show 'Deal Central ' and tweets at @ashwinmohansays. He has previously worked with ET NOW, CNBC TV-18 and The Times of India. Australian journalist Antony Loewenstein recently published a book titled The Palestine Laboratory: How Israel Exports the Technology of Occupation Around the World (Verso Books, 2023). Loewenstein doesnt think that the Hamas attack on October 7 will be remembered as a failure of Israeli defenses. Quite the opposite. In his book, Loewenstein describes biometric tools used by Israel and its soldiers to create a comprehensive database of nearly every Palestinian citizen. He also describes the cameras Israeli police use to identify people covering their faces with traditional Palestinian keffiyeh scarves, and smartphone apps that facilitate killing. Question. One argument in your book suggests that Israels global leadership in cyber weapons is closely tied to the occupied territories. Answer. Absolutely. Its hard to imagine Israel as a world leader in this area without the occupation of Palestinian territories. Much like the United States, which gained significant war experience in Iraq and Afghanistan. And also in Ukraine, although its troops arent directly engaged in combat. Q. According to a source in the book, an increasing number of countries believe that Israels control over the Palestinians is not as effective as they thought. Is this what we saw three months ago with the Hamas attack on October 7? A. My book came out in May last year. I put that in there because it was almost like a dissenting view of my thesis. But I maintain that October 7 did not change that. The barbaric Hamas massacre was an Israeli military and political intelligence catastrophe. Weve seen a few things unfold over the last four or five months. First, there is little interest on Israels part for any introspection about why its intelligence failed, even though theres a war going on. Second, new products for cyberwar continue to be tested in Gaza for sale abroad. Q. Wont the failure of October 7 affect Israeli sales of these products? A. So far, there is no indication that it will. Many European nations were eager to acquire Israeli surveillance technology before October 7, after Russia invaded Ukraine. In September last year, Israel sealed its largest arms sale to Germany for $3.5 billion. Despite the events of October 7, my experience suggests that the Israeli arms and intelligence industry will thrive. It may seem counterintuitive, ridiculous and short-term, but we should not underestimate the number of countries that seek to show solidarity with Israel and align themselves with a war-on-terror mentality. An analogy would be 9/11 in the United States. Despite being the largest intelligence failure in American history, it had zero impact on the American defense industry. In fact, it had the opposite effect. Q. Exactly what type of Israeli technology failed on October 7? A. Several types, both low tech and high tech. As for low tech, Israel stopped monitoring Hamas walkie-talkies a year before October 7, considering it unimportant and a waste of time. Despite spending billions to upgrade the fence around Gaza, it remained vulnerable to the low-tech drones used by Hamas. But the main intelligence failure on October 7 was not due to technology, but rather an ideological unwillingness to imagine that Hamas was capable of such an attack. The deterioration of Israels human intelligence and reliance on its technological supremacy proved to be a tragic mistake. Most of the coverage in the last five months has focused on what technology failed, and I think thats a mistake. Q. According to the book, Israel allegedly uses sales of Pegasus [surveillance software] to gain diplomatic favor. But Spain bought and uses Pegasus, and is often sympathetic towards the Palestinians. A. Spain is an exception. Pegasus is considered somewhat outdated technology today. However, it is still widely used in various countries, ranging from Greece to Togo, from India to Bangladesh. I should note that not every country in the U.N. always aligns with Israel. Over the past decade, Israel has successfully wagered that these nations would acquire high-tech surveillance technology with no real political cost to Israel. Zero cost, actually. Q. If Pegasus is considered outdated technology and its creator, the NSO group, were to go out of business tomorrow, what would happen? A. Nothing. All its clients would go to other companies. There are other Israeli firms in that space with less negative publicity. But they do the same thing as NSO. Q. There are also companies like NSO in other countries. A. Yes, no doubt. The appeal of what Israeli firms are selling is not just the technology, but the ideology that dresses it up. Israel is dressing their technology up with a mantra that says we have successfully controlled a population with these tools for over 50 years. October 7 does challenge some of that, but thats what theyve been saying for years and theyre going to continue saying that. Q. In your book, you quote a well-known Israeli journalist Ronen Bergman who rejects your thesis. He claims to be unaware of any instances where Israeli companies use the occupied territories to increase weapons sales. A. I was utterly baffled by his quote, especially considering his work. I interviewed him and included it in the book for readers to see. Its just not true. It may seem like Im making this up, but I said to him, What are you talking about? The evidence is overwhelming. There are videos and marketing materials. So, you have to ask him. I honestly dont understand his reasoning. I sense hes very concerned about the Israels image. Hes a journalist, but hes also very keen on maintaining what he thinks is a noble image of Israel. The idea that Israel would be selling weapons and surveillance technology, and has been testing weapons, is dirty its a bad look. Im only guessing hes either in denial or he doesnt want to admit it publicly. Israel is dressing their technology up with a mantra that says we have successfully controlled a population with these tools for over 50 years. Q. Perhaps everyone assumes that these weapons can be used against the Palestinians so Israel doesnt have to use that sales pitch. A. But they do. There is a movie called The Lab, made in 2013, which includes footage of foreign military leaders observing weapons tests. Im not making this up. The evidence is overwhelming. Q. In the book, you quote someone saying that killing a Palestinian is as easy as ordering a pizza online. Whats he talking about? A. Its a smartphone app, but obviously not one you and I use. In my book, I emphasize the central role played by the dehumanization of Palestinians in the Palestine laboratory. It can only operate if Palestinians are not viewed as equal citizens. When a significant number of Palestinians are viewed as potential terrorist threats, any app that can be easily used to harm them is seen as a rational means of self-protection. Youre protecting Jews who are building a state from the ashes of the Holocaust. TikTok videos show Israeli soldiers in Gaza humiliating Palestinians, tying them up, and demolishing their homes, violating international law. These actions stem from a belief in the dehumanization of Palestinians. It is true that parts of Palestinian society have become radicalized, but its equally important to acknowledge the radicalization within Israeli society. I say this as someone who is Jewish. You cannot occupy a people for over half a century and not become deformed as a society. Q. The book says that Israel monitors all Palestinians regardless of age, location or intention. What do you mean? A. Its like what the NSA [National Security Agency] does in the U.S. Im not suggesting that every American is being watched every day. What I mean is that Unit 8200 the NSA equivalent in Israel basically monitors, controls and collects information on all calls and emails that Palestinians make within Palestine. It doesnt mean theyre reading all of it. No one has the computing power to read it all. Q. Is this information used to blackmail Palestinians into becoming informants? A. Very much so. Its very common for Israel to try to blackmail Palestinians when they leave [the enclaves] for school or to get medical care. Im not saying that every Palestinian accepts that role of course they dont. But we dont know how many Palestinians do. The information they use for blackmail comes from surveillance. They search for weaknesses in the Palestinians a love affair, an out-of-wedlock child. Its quite a conservative society. Since October 7, there have been huge numbers of Israeli government ministers speaking openly in the Knesset [Parliament] about how important it is for Israel to maintain its massive network of informants in Gaza. Whats not often mentioned is how they get these informants. So you have a situation where the entire Palestinian population roughly 5 million is monitored 24/7. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day February 09, 2024 / 06:00 AM IST Vidnyan Sawant is the AVP Technical Research at GEPL Capital. Manish M. Suvarna is Senior Correspondent at Moneycontrol. He writes on the Indian money markets, RBI, Banks and NBFCs. He tweets at @manishsuvarna15. Contact: Manish.Suvarna@nw18.com Abhishek Sahu covers HR and Education (Careers) at Moneycontrol. He can be reached at Abhishek.Sahu@nw18.com and @Abhishek44sahu. US President Joe Biden holds US Vice President Kamala Harris' hand as he recognizes her in his remarks at the Black History Month Reception at the White House in Washington, D.C., February 06, 2024. Vice President Kamala Harris on Friday slammed the report by a Justice Department special counsel into Joe Bidens mishandling of classified documents that raised questions about the presidents memory, calling it politically motivated and gratuitous. The report from Robert Hur, the former Maryland U.S. Attorney selected by Attorney General Merrick Garland to investigate Biden found evidence that Biden willfully held onto and shared with a ghostwriter highly classified information, but laid out why he did not believe the evidence met the standard for criminal charges, including a high probability that the Justice Department would not be able to prove Bidens intent beyond a reasonable doubt. The report described the 81-year-old Democrats memory as hazy, fuzzy, faulty, poor and having significant limitations. It noted that Biden could not recall defining milestones in his own life such as when his son Beau died or when he served as vice president. Taking a question from a reporter at the conclusion of a gun violence prevention event at the White House, Harris said that as a former prosecutor, she considered Hurs comments gratuitous, inaccurate, and inappropriate. She noted that Bidens two-day sit-down with Hur occurred just after the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas on Israel, where more than 1,200 people were killed and about 250 were taken hostage including many Americans. It was an intense moment for the commander in chief of the United States of America, Harris said, saying she spent countless hours with Biden and other officials in the days that followed and he was on top of it all. She added that the way that the presidents demeanor in that report was characterized could not be more wrong on the facts and clearly politically motivated, gratuitous. Harris concluded saying a special counsel should have a higher level of integrity than what we saw. Her comments came a day after Biden insisted that his memory is fine and grew visibly angry at the White House, as he denied forgetting when his son died. Beau Biden died of brain cancer in 2015 at the age of 46. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Aihik Sur covers tech policy, drones, space tech among other beats at Moneycontrol -Three damn hours just to vote, three! The screaming man threw open the cafeteria doors at Green Valley High School in Henderson, Nevada. On the other side there were scenes of confusion: lines leading nowhere, people who couldnt find voting stations, people giving away ballots as if they were flyers. This is what the elections organized by Donald Trumps supporters look like. -Damn, I thought the Republicans knew how to organize elections, said a man who couldn't find anyone to give him information about his census registration. Trump swept the Nevada caucuses this Thursday, securing the states 26 delegates (more than he obtained in Iowa or New Hampshire). The Associated Press declared the former presidents victory when hundreds of his supporters were still waiting in long lines to vote. The controversial politician was competing by himself in an internal process in which three names appeared on the ballot. His own, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who threw in the towel last month, and Ryan Binkley, a pastor from Texas who had the daring to confront Trump in one of his most solid bastions in the West. Were leading everybody, said Trump later in a victory speech at Treasure Island Casino in Las Vegas. Is there any way we can call the election for next Tuesday? Thats all I want. Lets face it, all these people are going to vote for Trump, says Linda Guglia. This 45-year-old real estate broker, a first-generation American with Austrian and Irish roots, voted for Joe Biden in 2020. It was one of the biggest mistakes of my life, confesses Guglia, who intends to correct the record in November. She said Democrats are obsessed with abortion, but what voters like her really worry about are the economy and immigration. At the voting center Linda met up with Gareth, whom she knows from the Christian church she attends. The man wore a white cap that said Team Trump Captain in big gold letters. On his chest he proudly wore a stamp that said Caucus for Trump on February 8. These representatives of the Trump campaign were acting as election observers on Thursday. Some of them gave ballots to the voters and took them to the table where they had to place the ballot in a tiny cardboard box. Its been confusing because we didnt expect such a high turnout, but the point of this is to have an election with integrity, said Gareth. Hundreds of Trump supporters waiting to cast their vote at Green Valley High in Henderson, Nevada. Luis Pablo Beauregard The confusing scenes were not exclusive to the high school. South of there, at the exclusive Dragonridge private club, the scene was similar. Trump supporters waited patiently for up to two hours to get to their tables to cast their votes, which itself took less than 15 seconds. The press was expelled by the owner of the establishment, the businessman Rich MacDonald, a millionaire developer who is also the treasurer of the Republican Party in Nevada. The shadow of suspicion that Trump has cast over election institutions and officials prompted the Nevada Republican Party to hold a caucus in parallel to the primary, which took place on Tuesday and was organized by state officials. The event on Thursday highlighted the voting restrictions that party members want to impose in the states. Voting by mail has been prohibited, except for a handful of military personnel who will be able to cast absentee ballots. Only those who registered as Republicans before January 9 were able to participate. The ballots are made of paper and the counting process should be done, in theory, at the precincts to avoid moving the ballots to another location. The caucus was intended to bring transparency to a process that Nikki Haleys own campaign considers fraudulent. We have not spent a dime nor an ounce of energy on Nevada. We made the decision early on that we were not going to pay $55,000 to a Trump entity to participate in a process that was rigged for Trump, Betsy Ankney, Haleys campaign manager, said on Monday. Haley suffered an embarrassing defeat in Tuesdays primary, coming in second place with 22,000 votes, behind none of the above candidates (47,000 votes). Fully 60% of ballots were marked with this option, compared to 33% who opted for Haley. Another primary is scheduled for February 24 in South Carolina, her home state. Trumps Nevada supporters spent their time in the long lines taunting Haley. This is not New Hampshire! joked a man in one of the precincts. She doesnt realize how ridiculous she is. Her brain at this point is as good as Bidens. She hasnt realized that the competition is over, said Mike Shamamian, a 77-year-old retiree who was reading a book about Ava Gardner. The man claims he voted for the Democratic Party from 1968 to 2016, when he supported and even helped raise money for Bernie Sanders. Now he is sure that Donald Trump will be president again. Democrats are only interested in money. They hate Trump because he already has money, but he only wants to do good things. Shekhar Iyer is former senior associate editor of Hindustan Times and political editor of Deccan Herald. Views are personal. Amit Kumar is executive editor of Eastmojo.com, a Northeast-based news portal. Views are personal and do not represent the stand of this publication. Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Bharath Reddy is a researcher at the Takshashila Institution, an independent and non-partisan think tank and school of public policy. Views are personal and do not represent the stand of this publication. KYODO NEWS - Feb 9, 2024 - 09:09 | All, World, Japan U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres condemned North Korea on Thursday for continuing ballistic missile tests in defiance of resolutions adopted by the world body's Security Council and failing to provide sufficient information about abducted Japanese nationals. "I strongly condemn any attempts of North Korea to launch missiles or to develop nuclear weapons," Guterres told a press conference. The secretary general said it is "absolutely essential" that North Korea abides by Security Council resolutions that ban any activities using ballistic missile technology. North Korea has test-fired many ballistic missiles in recent years. It also sent a spy satellite into Earth's orbit last year using a rocket which is part of a space program that also constitutes a violation of the resolutions due to it using banned ballistic missile technology. The Security Council has repeatedly convened meetings after North Korean missile launches but a consensus over how to address them has been elusive due to a split between veto-wielding permanent members such as the United States, Russia and China. Guterres also criticized Pyongyang for abducting Japanese nationals in the 1970s and 1980s and for its failure to respond to Tokyo's calls to provide information about them. "It is unacceptable" to keep the abductees "for decades without proper information" supplied to their families about whether they are alive or dead, Guterres said. Japan officially lists 17 people as having been taken to North Korea. Five returned in 2002 but Pyongyang maintains eight have died and four others never entered the country. Tokyo has not accepted the claim and urged Pyongyang to disclose more detailed information. Related coverage: North Korea conducted "cruise missile super-large warhead power" test 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 Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Christin Mathew Philip is an Assistant editor at moneycontrol.com. Based in Bengaluru, he writes on mobility, infrastructure and start-ups. He is a Ramnath Goenka excellence in journalism awardee. You can find him on Twitter here: twitter.com/ChristinMP_ KYODO NEWS - Feb 8, 2024 - 23:30 | All, Japan The operator of the disaster-stricken Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant apologized to the local government on Thursday for a radioactive water leak from a building on the premises. Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings Inc. said 5.5 tons leaked from an outlet connected to a device to treat contaminated water, which is accumulating at the complex that suffered reactor fuel meltdowns in the wake of the 2011 earthquake and tsunami disaster. TEPCO said the latest incident has not affected the environment outside the plant. "We made people in Fukushima Prefecture, and broadly people in the society anxious," Tatsuya Taminami, the head of the plant, said in apology as he met with prefectural officials. The prefecture asked for steps to prevent such leaks from happening again. The leak was noticed on Wednesday morning and had occurred while washing the water treatment device located inside an incinerator building. The 5.5 tons of water, estimated to have contained 22 billion becquerels of radioactive substances, is believed to have partially seeped into the ground and TEPCO plans to remove the potentially affected soil. Related coverage: IAEA reaffirms Japan's treated water release in line with standards Japan farm, fisheries exports at record 1.45 trillion yen in 2023 KYODO NEWS - Feb 9, 2024 - 11:46 | All, World Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has dismissed Gen. Valerii Zaluzhnyi as commander in chief, citing a need to reinvigorate the country's armed forces as the war with Russia approaches its third year. Col. Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi replaced the outgoing commander, a statement released Thursday said. The move is likely to spark opposition as Zaluzhnyi, who had held the post since July 2021, has remained popular among Ukrainians amid reports of differences with the president in recent months. "The feeling of stagnation specifically in the southern directions and the difficulties in the battles in the Donetsk region have affected the public mood," Zelenskyy said in the statement, adding he had requested that Zaluzhnyi remain in a government post. The move comes after Zaluzhnyi said in an interview with British magazine The Economist in November that the war with Russia was at a "stalemate," an assessment that was rejected by Zelenskyy. Related coverage: PM Kishida says Japan-Russia ties are "difficult" amid Ukraine war There is so much news about the progress of the Indian Railways. The new fast train from Mumbai to Ahmedabad, with Japanese technology, will create a new standard for rail travel in India. As one reads about all these excellent developments, I think about the old days when I travelled by train on holidays with the family and later on, to work, as a salesman for Glaxo, covering small towns which I had never been aware of earlier. These developments tempt me to share my thoughts about something about a train in Indiasomething that cannot be replicated in most parts of the world. It is not that it is the second-longest train track in the world. Or, that it carries the population of Australia every month. Or, that it is the single largest employer in the world, employing (1.5 million?) people. Or, that over 50% of the employees of the Indian government are those working for the Railways. It is also true that many trains are dirty, crowded and with a fairly large-sized population of ticketless travellers. But, what makes an Indian Railways (IR) train unique is that it is a moving bazaar, where many things are available except consumer durables and large-sized items. What makes it unique is that a not negligible number make the moving bazaar, a permanent workplace, sometimes a place of residence, and a place for recreation! I studied this phenomenon about 20 years agolooking at the short-run suburban trains in Mumbai. The Central Railway carried 1.3mn (million) passengers a day; the Western Railway carried 1.2mn. Twenty-five percent of Mumbais population moves up and down, from north to south and then to north again, every day. They take the train at peak hours from Churchgate to Bandra, every day. One has to stand ramrod straight, with one hand on the handle above and another across the purse in your hip pocket. There is no place to move. In fact, even a slight chest expansion that accompanies breathing may be difficult. When you reach Bandra, you cannot get out. The entry is blocked by other passengers. You should have begun moving towards the exit halfway through the journeyand if you did not, you are already too late! It is like selling techniques, where one of the important rules is Always be closingat the beginning of the interview, in the middle, at the end. So, I had to go to the train terminus at Andheri and again fight my way back to Bandra! But even in a crowded train like this, the beggar makes his way, singing loudly into already irritated ears. There is also another blind beggar woman accompanied by her little son, who looks at you mournfully, and tugs at your shirt sleeve. There is yet another woman who moves around with a skinny babe in her arms, desperately trying to elicit sympathy and generate a few coins. They all manage to move around, among the crowd, from one end of the train to anotherlike lubricating oil flowing through every available nook and crevice, finding its way silently through serpentine channels with every little gap, that is unseen by the untrained eye. Take the Charminar Express to Hyderabada long-distance superfast train that stops at an increasing number of stations every six months, converting it from superfast to just fast! There are hawkers on the train who sell aerated water, tea and coffee; biscuits and sweets; vadas and samosa; channa with onions; hairpins and combs; inflatable pillows and hand towels; plastic toys and plastic water bottles; film magazines and daily newspapers. There are services being offered of cleaning the compartment (they are independent operators) and shining shoes. And all the time, through these years, these beggars and hawkers are also climbing their own promotion ladder. There is the hunchback. He has been with the Charminar Express since its inception. He started as a beggar, playing on the sympathy of passengers for his physical disability. His target audience was the Gulf crowd visiting home. They gave handsomelyand he made a good living. But, after four years, he decided to graduate to selling services, rather than earning through begging. So he became a shoe shine, focusing primarily on shoes, but also encompassing the chappal market which is larger. And he did well for another four years, until he found the profitability in hawking goods was higher. So he shifted to selling channa masala which he did successfullyand continues to do so. The hunchback is not the only one. There is the boy with a limp and there is the albino with a once-white handkerchief tied around his head. The albino started out as a compartment cleaning man, then moved into shoe shining and later still, to hawking plastic toys and water bottles. And there are probably others like him, all finding their vocations in the moving bazaar, where a drama goes on and a ladder of progression has evolved and is followed. There are many who do not approve of trains being converted into bazaars. And so the authorities in Eastern India began a campaign to eliminate hawkers from trains. They did. And there was peace for the passengers for about two months. The Railway Hawkers Association agitated. The president was an MP. He used his influence and power with the railway authorities. He claimed that hawkers had a right to pursue their profession, irrespective of the location. It was political expediency. The agitation spread. The final nail in the coffin was the comment of the collector of the town that the crime rate had gone up since the time hawkers were prevented from operating on the railways. A strange connection! But it shows how many factors influence the creation and perpetuation of the moving bazaar. Hawkers were once again allowed to operate, or at least a Nelsons eye was turned towards them. And so the bazaar on wheels moves on! This material is taken from unpublished material written many years ago. (Walter Vieira is a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants of India- FIMC. He was a successful corporate executive for 14 years and then pioneered marketing consulting in India in 1975. As a consultant, he has worked across four continents. He was the first Asian elected Chairman of ICMCI, the world apex body of 45 countries. He is the author of 16 books, a business columnist and has been visiting professor in Marketing in the US, Europe, and Asia for over 40 years. His latest books are Marketing in a Digital/Data World with Brian Almeida and Customer Value Starvation Can Kill with Gautam Mahajan. He now spends most of his time on NGO work and is presently Chairman, Consumer Education and Research Society, India) An IndiGo Airlines New Delhi-Mumbai flight returned to the Delhi airport early on Friday as some passengers complained of a stench inside the aircraft. When some passengers who claimed they were almost choking, tried to find out from the crew, they were not given any replies and were asked not to click photos or videos. However, some passengers managed to shoot a brief video and sent it to Thane activist Dr. Binu Varghese who forwarded it to the concerned authorities for action. The passengers informed Dr. Varghese that they were forced to suffer the ordeal of poor air quality for nearly 30 minutes before the flight returned to New Delhi this morning. In a statement, an IndiGo spokesperson confirmed that the flight (6E449) returned to Delhi due to a momentary foul smell. The pilot, following standard operating procedures, landed back in Delhi as a precaution, and an alternate aircraft was arranged for the passengers flying to Mumbai. Reacting to the incident, some fliers took to social media to narrate similar plight they had undergone, ostensibly due to certain cost-saving factors indulged in by the carriers. 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. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has announced the agenda for the IATA World Cargo Symposium (WCS) which will feature specialised tracks on Digitalisation, Sustainability, Safety & Security. WCS is taking place in Hong Kong (SAR), China from March 12 to 14, 2024. "Air cargo is an unsung hero of the global economy. In normal times, it delivers some 35% of the value of goods traded across borders. In the pandemic, air cargo brought medical supplies and vaccines to where they were needed. And today it is providing a vital transport alternative for some products as Red Sea shipping lanes face geopolitical uncertainty. Air cargos success matters. When air cargos global leaders gather in Hong Kong for the IATA World Cargo Symposium, ensuring the future reliability and growth of this critical sector will be top of mind with an agenda focused on sustainability, digitalisation, safety and security," said Brendan Sullivan, IATAs Global Head of Cargo. Speakers & Sessions Ronald Lam, Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer, Willie Walsh, IATAs Director General, and Marie Owens Thomsen, IATAs SVP Sustainability and Chief Economist, will join Sullivan in setting the scene for the conference with keynote addresses. They will be followed by key air cargo experts, including: Tom Owen, Director of Cargo, Cathay Pacific Michael Steen, Chief Executive Officer, Atlas Air Vivian Lau, Chief Executive, Jardine Aviation Services Group Kirsten de Bruijn, Executive Vice President Cargo, WestJet Marco Bloeman, Managing Director, Accenture and Head of Accenture Cargo The events overall theme of Driving Sustainable and Inclusive Growth will be supported by three tracks: Sustainability, which will include sessions on tracking progress towards net zero carbon emissions by 2050, ESG reporting, optimising operations for environmental performance, reducing single use plastics, and circular strategies for Unit Load Device (ULD) components. Digitalisation, which will include sessions on data driven strategies to improve performance and reduce costs, achieving the efficiencies of OneRecord, and the potential for generative AI in air cargo. Safety & Security, which will include sessions on Annex 18 Regulatory oversight of freight forwarders/handling agents for dangerous goods shipments, fire containment strategies for lithium battery shipments, ULD airworthiness, latest developments for the safety of live animal shipments, implications of an integrated risk management framework. Workshops Inclusive strategies for managing the people needed to lead and drive the future of air cargo will be the focus of two key WCS workshops: Building the next generation of talent at the Future Air Cargo Executives Summit (FACES) The benefits of competency-based training through IATAs Competency-Based Training and Assessment Centre (CBTA Centre) and how it helps to improve workplace safety and performance. Additional workshops Improving performance on key market segments using IATA Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators (CEIV) programmes (CEIV Pharma, CEIV Live Animals, CEIV Lithium Batteries and CEIV Fresh). How IATAs Cargo Solutions are assisting the industry in decision making and cargo compliance, towards improving safety and efficiency. How air cargo billing and settlement can be enhanced using the new CASSLink An E-Commerce Forum to identify how more visibility between e-tailers and cargo operators would improve efficiency. FACE-UP! Air Cargo Awards 2024 The winner of the 3rd edition of the IATA FACE UP! Award will also be decided at WCS. FACE UP! is a competition for recent university graduates whose thesis is on the subject of innovation and transformation in air transport logistics. Three finalists will be invited to present their projects during the conference. Delegates will then vote for their preferred innovation and the winners will be announced at the closing plenary of WCS.--TradeArabia News Service By Fuyuko Ishizawa, KYODO NEWS - Feb 9, 2024 - 11:17 | All, Japan, Feature Despite being very few in number, some foreign-born firefighters are employed in Japan, but their nationality is proving a conundrum due to opaque restrictions placed on what duties non-Japanese public servants can carry out. The ambiguous rules have left some of these firefighters and the local governments that hired them -- some in depopulated rural areas -- confused about how their much-needed abilities can be utilized. A nationwide tally compiled by the Internal Affairs Ministry's Fire and Disaster Management Agency showed that there were 479 foreign fire brigade members working in Japan in 2023, a 1.8-fold jump from the 269 on the job in 2020 when the agency first collected data. Municipality-specific data are not disclosed. The firefighters are classed as part-time, special-position local public servants, a job title open to all nationalities who live in Japan. Despite being a godsend for communities with a declining working population, the lack of clarity over what duties they can perform during fire and disaster emergencies is proving a hurdle. Many municipalities are frustrated with the lack of coherent rules or legal clarity on the matter and are puzzled by the central government's guidelines that state "Japanese nationality is required for the exercise of public authority." The guidelines, issued in 1953 by the Cabinet Legislation Bureau, are considered a restricting factor on foreign firefighters. But the ambiguity means each municipality must make an individual judgment on what activities amount to them exercising "public authority." "There have been cases where we have been confused because of the restriction and have refused to hire foreign residents in our fire brigades," one municipal official in western Japan said. Generally, public authority is required to establish fire zones, where firefighters can order people to evacuate dangerous areas and take emergency measures such as destroying property to prevent the spread of fire or to save human lives. Activities that do not require public authority include leading evacuees to safety, language interpretation at shelters and communications as part of disaster readiness activities. Acknowledging an urgent need for clarity, the Fire and Disaster Management Agency is working to create a set of new guidelines with a plan to present it to municipalities across Japan by the end of March 2025. One official in charge admitted the agency is preparing only "guidelines" rather than establishing exactly what foreign firefighters can and cannot do, implying that the final decision on whether or not a foreign national is eligible to perform all duties will continue to be left to local governments. Fundamental problems might not be solved, but experts say the new guidelines will certainly be easier to understand and are expected to have the effect of encouraging local governments that have been hesitant to employ foreign nationals. Even so, some fear the agency's move for clarification could have unintended effects, with some places that already allow foreigners to perform full duties possibly forced to review their current policies and introduce restrictions. "With the number of firefighters decreasing here, they are very valuable to us," said an official in the town of Misato in the northeastern prefecture of Miyagi, mentioning the fact that no particular restrictions are placed on the one foreign firefighter employed there. On the other hand, Mitsue, a village in Nara Prefecture, western Japan, where approximately 60 percent of the population is 65 or older, hired a foreign firefighter on the condition the person could not engage in actual firefighting. "It is very difficult for a small village like ours in which one person is unable to engage in the same activities as the rest of the brigade," a Mitsue firefighting official said. Ichizo Goto, a former adjunct lecturer at Tohoku Fukushi University who has been studying fire brigades for more than 40 years, believes Japan must scrap its outdated policy. "The social structure has changed and it is an anachronism to distinguish activities on the basis of foreign nationality," Goto said. "We should remove restrictions on activities in a way that follows the present situation so that foreigners who wish to join fire brigades and local governments alike can take on this issue with a positive approach," he said. Related coverage: FEATURE: Okinawan Spam soul food sandwich on a roll worldwide FEATURE: 1,000-km nature trek helping Tohoku once again hit its stride FEATURE: 3 yrs after coup, Japan group strives to aid displaced Myanmar people KYODO NEWS - Feb 9, 2024 - 20:27 | All, Japan The dog that attacked a dozen people including nine elementary school pupils northwest of Tokyo earlier this week had not been vaccinated for rabies, the local government said Friday. The pet owner has admitted that he failed to inoculate the 2-year-old Shikoku that went on a biting spree in Isesaki, Gunma Prefecture, on Wednesday, sending five of the 12 to hospital, although their injuries were not life-threatening. The owner has a total of seven Shikoku dogs, which are known as a breed of hunting dog, but only three have been registered with the city and there were no records of any having been vaccinated for rabies for nearly 10 years. Under Japan's Rabies Prevention Act, owners need to register any dog aged 91 days or more with their municipalities within 30 days of taking ownership of the animal. The law also requires dogs to be vaccinated against rabies once a year. But the dog involved in the attack, which is about 130 centimeters long and 60 cm tall, was neither registered nor did it have a record of vaccination, according to the city and other sources. It is currently in the care of a prefectural animal protection facility. Police are investigating the case on the grounds alleged injuries were caused by negligence and as a violation of the rabies law. "I am sorry for causing trouble for my bad management," the owner, a 62-year-old company executive from Isesaki, told reporters. He said he was aware of the need to register and vaccinate his dogs but thought the vaccination "was not good for their health" after one of his previous dogs had died after getting the jab. The owner registered the remaining four dogs after the city issued a guidance on appropriate pet ownership on Thursday, and he also plans to have them all vaccinated. Meanwhile, another Shikoku dog ran away from his owner on Thursday afternoon in Kanagawa Prefecture, south of Tokyo, prompting the police to alert local citizens through email the following day. The dog is still on the loose, but it has been vaccinated and no one has been injured so far, according to the police. Related coverage: 12 bitten in dog attack northwest of Tokyo, 5 sent to hospital By Claire Layne | Feb 9, 2024 Murray State University will host the Venerable Tsering Phuntsok from Feb. 21-23 MURRAY, Ky. Murray State University will host the Venerable Tsering Phuntsok from Feb. 21-23. Tsering is a practicing Buddhist monk who entered the monastery in Bir, India, in 1987 at the age of 16. He studied and practiced the Nyingmapa tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, receiving training in meditation, Buddhist scripture/philosophy, tantric ritual, lama dancing and music. The Nyingmapa, a Red Hat sect of Tibetan Buddhism, incorporates local religious practices and local deities and elements of shamanism, which is shared with Bon. The group particularly believes in hidden terma treasures. Tsering has received many tantric empowerments and sutra teachings from His Holiness the Dalai Lama and many other High Lamas, including the late H.H. Penor Rinpoche. For several years, Tsering trained young monks in ritual and academic subjects in Dharamshala, India, the exiled home of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Tsering instructed at the monastery where he trained and worked on projects addressing the needs of Tibetan refugees and Indian people in Dharamshala. For the last 15 years, he has served as a guide and liaison for students volunteering with local non-governmental agencies such as Lha Charitable Trust, the largest volunteer host and coordination organization in the Tibetan refugee community of Dharamsala. His work with the monastery and the Tibetan people brought him to the United States to partner with American universities for study abroad opportunities and to raise awareness and support for the Tibetan people in exile in Dharamshala. He continued to work on health-related projects for his monastery, raising funds to rebuild a monastic school for boys that was destroyed in an earthquake years ago. He leads retreats in his home country of Nepal where he also oversees his nieces and nephews and serves as a liaison to universities in the U.S. Tsering runs a retreat center for young monks out of his house in Kathmandu, Nepal, dividing his time among his family, his monastery outside of Dharmsala, his liaison work with universities in Louisiana and Kentucky and leading personal retreats with Buddhists around the United States. Jeffrey Wylie, a social work professor at Murray State, described how he met Tsering in 2010 through a graduate school friend, Dr. Ken Casey, at Hopkinsville Community College. Tsering first came to Murray in February 2011, making this his ninth visit to Murray State. In the 14 years I have known Tsering, said Wylie, he has become my colleague, fellow traveler, teacher, student and friend. Tsering truly has a social workers heart and is one of the most spiritual people I know. During those years, Tsering has spoken in many classes, made friends in the area, met with Buddhist students on Murray States campus and introduced many students and people in the Murray community to Buddhism and principles of love and compassion. Wylie is preparing Tserings lecture forum for the University community and Murray residents. To request Tsering to speak to a class, set up a private meeting or attend an event during his visit, contact Wylie at jwylie@murraystate.edu. U.S. President Joe Biden delivers remarks during an event at the White House in recognition of Black History Month, in Washington, U.S., February 6, 2024. Chairman U.S. Representative Mike Gallagher (R-WI) speaks with former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, and former CIA director and former defense secretary Leon Panetta, during a hearing of the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party, on Capitol Hill, in Washington, U.S., January 30, 2024. KYODO NEWS - Feb 10, 2024 - 07:36 | Arts, All, Japan Seiji Ozawa, the iconic Japanese conductor known for his work with the Boston Symphony Orchestra and other world-famous ensembles, died Tuesday at his home in Tokyo due to heart failure, his management office said Friday. He was 88. A trailblazer of Japanese conductors on the world stage, Ozawa's death was mourned both in his home country and overseas, with the Vienna Philharmonic, where he had also performed, calling him "one of the great conductors of our time." Born in 1935 to Japanese parents in Manchuria, now northeastern China, Ozawa grew up in Japan and originally aspired to become a pianist. But a finger injury sustained playing rugby in junior high school set him on the path to conducting. After schooling, Ozawa left for Europe to become a conductor. In 1959 he won first prize at an international competition for young conductors in Besancon, France. He studied under Austrian conductor Herbert von Karajan and U.S. conductor Leonard Bernstein, which paved the way for him to become assistant conductor at the New York Philharmonic in 1961. His international reputation was established by serving as the music director of the Boston Symphony Orchestra for 29 years through 2002, which, according to its website, is the longest in its history. In 2002, he became the first Japanese to conduct the Vienna Philharmonic's New Year's Day concert. He was music director of the Vienna State Opera from 2002 to 2010, while receiving honorary membership to the Vienna Philharmonic. His performances also extended to such countries as China, where he was officially invited by the government to work with the China Central Symphony Orchestra in 1978. Ozawa was among artists who received U.S. Kennedy Center Honors in 2015 for their lifetime contribution to American culture. In Japan, he founded the Saito Kinen Orchestra in the 1980s as a tribute to his teacher Hideo Saito, a cellist and conductor at his alma mater Toho Gakuen academy, and it has regularly performed at the annual music festival held in Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture, in central Japan. He also held positions such as the conductor laureate of the New Japan Philharmonic. Ozawa received an honorary doctorate from Harvard University and was keen to educate the next generation of musicians. In 2005, the maestro opened the Seiji Ozawa International Academy Switzerland, where he taught young musicians for free. In 2016, he won a Grammy Award for Best Opera Recording for a performance he conducted of Ravel's "L'Enfant et Les Sortileges" (The Child and the Spells) by the Saito Kinen Orchestra at its 2013 festival. Known for his hardworking nature and trademark bushy hair, Ozawa was beloved for his friendly and cheerful personality. He had a wide circle of friends, including fashion designer Hanae Mori and internationally renowned writer Haruki Murakami, with whom he co-authored the book "Absolutely on Music." Ozawa, who underwent surgery for esophageal cancer in 2010, struggled with health issues in his later years of life, which forced him to be absent from the podium for periods. He made his final public appearance in a wheelchair in September last year at the curtain call of a performance in Matsumoto. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida lamented the loss on his official X account, calling Ozawa "a great conductor who held aspirations for the world, stirred significant emotions transcending borders and was a legend that Japan is proud of." The Japanese government awarded Ozawa the Order of Culture in 2008. The Boston Symphony Orchestra, in its statement, said Ozawa was "a force of nature on and off stage" who brought it to "new heights of international recognition and acclaim in his almost three decades" as its music director. The Vienna Philharmonic said in a statement that it was "a gift to be able to go on a long journey with this artist" and Ozawa "left a great artistic legacy with the Vienna Philharmonic." Ozawa's management office M. Hirasa Ltd. said it is considering holding a farewell event at a later date. Related coverage: Academy Award-winning Japanese costume designer Emi Wada dies at 84 Vienna orchestra performs in Japan, 1st overseas concert since March Boston proclaims Japan conductor's birthday "Seiji Ozawa Day" The Pacific Islands Development Program is looking for written submissions for its inaugural Visions & Voices publication. Prime Minister Fiame and Winston Peters at the singing of the cooperation partnership. KYODO NEWS - Feb 9, 2024 - 13:28 | All, World, Japan The Japanese government on Friday approved a policy to replace its controversial trainee program for foreigners, featuring improved rights protection with increased flexibility for changing jobs and tougher oversight. The approval at a ministerial meeting followed proposals by a government panel last year but also takes into account discussions in the ruling Liberal Democratic Party to restrict trainees from transferring jobs for a maximum of two years. The approval paves the way for the government to submit bills to parliament as early as March to introduce the new system. The current Technical Intern Training Program in place since 1993 was designed to transfer skills to developing countries, but it has been criticized as a cover for importing low-cost labor as Japan's working-age population shrinks. It has stringent rules that have largely prohibited trainees from changing workplaces unless there are compelling reasons, and many have run away due to abuses such as unpaid wages and harassment. "We want to make Japan into a country that foreign talent will choose (to work in,)" Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said of the decision. "We will proceed with work based on this policy," he added, instructing ministers to improve conditions for the acceptance of foreign workers. But while the final report by the panel stated that trainees should be allowed to transfer jobs after working one year in principle, lawmakers expressed concern about potential trainee outflows from rural to urban areas, where conditions are better. The government ultimately decided to set a maximum limit on job transfers of two years, depending on the field. Another requirement will be for trainees to have passed the easiest "N5" level of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test or the "N4" level demonstrating an understanding of basic Japanese. Supervising organizations, which act as brokers and monitor companies that accept foreign trainees, will be renamed "supervisory support organizations" and required to appoint external auditors under the new system. Meanwhile, the government is also considering requirements for revoking permanent residency status from foreigners -- whose numbers are expected to increase -- if they do not pay taxes or social insurance premiums. Under the new system, trainees will be able to shift to a specified skilled worker system, introduced in 2019, that allows for stays of up to 5 years with the potential for obtaining permanent residency. There were around 358,000 foreign technical interns as of the end of June. Related coverage: Japan's foreign worker population tops 2 million for first time Vietnamese trainees told to undergo contraception to work in Japan Assemblywoman Catharine Blakespear speaks about plastic bags View Photo Sacramento, CA Lawmakers in California announced a new proposal to reduce plastic bag use at stores in the state. Back in 2014, the state passed a plastic bag ban at grocery and retail stores, but customers were given the option of purchasing thicker bags that were designed to be reusable and recyclable. Democratic Assemblyman Ben Allen, an author of the new bill, argues, They are not in fact recyclable, and they are not being reused. They are simply creating more plastic pollution. Co-author, Assemblywoman Catharine Blakespear claimed, It is disgusting, honestly, arguing that the waste is going into the ocean and being consumed by fish. They cited studies finding that back in 2004, Californians trashed about eight pounds of plastic bags per person, annuallyk. By 2021, it was up to 11 pounds. If approved, shoppers would either have to bring their own bags or purchase paper bags when shopping. Governor Gavin Newsom has not indicated whether he would sign the legislation. It would take effect in 2026. He signed the nations first plastic bag ban while serving as Mayor of San Francisco in 2007. California is one of 12 states that currently have some form of plastic bag ban in place. AT&T Landline changes would initially take effect in blue areas and later in violet View Photo Sonora, CA Landline phone service could soon mostly be a thing of the past if a request by AT&T is approved by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). Specifically, AT&T is asking to end its designation as a Carrier of Last Resort, which requires that it provide landline telephone service throughout its coverage area, including the Mother Lode. A request for the change has been made to the CPUC, and a public comment period is underway that will continue through March. AT&T cites falling demand for landlines, the rising costs to maintain the traditional copper wiring, and a desire to instead invest the money on expanding broadband and cell phone services. It is of notable concern for mountainous communities, like the Mother Lode, where cell phone service is spotty in areas. The Tuolumne County Board of Supervisors will vote on sending a letter to the CPUC at next weeks meeting, listing concerns. Tuolumne Countys Project Manager for IT, Len De Groot, notes that the county believes the current service and infrastructure is not sufficient to support the change, especially in times of emergencies. In addition, adoption rates of mobile phones among elderly populations are low, which could put them at risk. AT&T has stated it will not end landline service in areas where there is no cell service, but there would be no legal requirements on the books, to make sure it is carried through (like the current Carrier of Last Resort designation). The map shows where AT&T is proposing to end its Carrier of Last Resort status initially during a first phase, and the violet is where it would end down the road, at a future date. More information about the plan, the comment process, and public meetings, can be found here. By Yuki Yamaguchi, KYODO NEWS - Feb 9, 2024 - 21:14 | All, Japan, Travel/Tourism ANA Holdings Inc. launched its third airline brand, AirJapan, on Friday, with the medium-haul low-cost carrier targeting the growing number of tourists to Japan from other Asian countries following the complete removal of COVID-19 travel restrictions. The parent of All Nippon Airways said AirJapan will operate six round-trip flights per week between Narita airport near Tokyo and Bangkok using Boeing 787-8 aircraft, with its first flight departing the airport Friday afternoon. The aircraft in an all-economy layout offers the same legroom as full-service carrier flights, according to ANA Holdings. "The seats are the brand's biggest appeal. We hope our customers enjoy comfortable flights to Bangkok," AirJapan President Hideki Mineguchi said at a ceremony at Narita airport. The new airline is planning to commence flights between Narita and Incheon airport near Seoul on Feb. 22 and between the Japanese airport and Singapore on April 26. One-way tickets to Bangkok start at 15,500 yen ($104), with tickets to Incheon and Singapore expected to start at around 8,000 yen and 17,500 yen, respectively. In-flight meals, available for a fee, include popular Japanese dishes, such as sushi and "oyakodon" chicken and egg rice bowls. Shinobu Yada, one of the passengers aboard the first flight, said she had been looking forward to taking AirJapan to Thailand. "I'm excited about the prospect of traveling now that the pandemic is over," she said. "And it's really cheap and definitely worth flying." Maitri Tiyaratanakul, a traveler from Thailand, said he was "satisfied" with the airfare. "It's cheaper than some (other) airlines," he said. Japan has seen inbound tourism boom again after the removal last year of border control measures implemented during the novel coronavirus pandemic. The number of foreign visitors to Japan grew more than sixfold to 25.07 million in 2023 from a year earlier, with recent monthly data showing a return to levels seen before the coronavirus outbreak. Related coverage: JAL net profit jumps fivefold in April-Dec. on demand recovery American to operate nonstop flights between Tokyo's Haneda, New York JAL taps ex-flight attendant Tottori as 1st female president The impact is likely to be significant for a country that is already reeling from an economic crisis and whose government is in the process of unleashing yet another round of IMF-approved austerity. Almost exactly a month ago, Ecuadors US-born and -raised, son-of-a-billionaire president, Daniel Noboa, announced his controversial decision to deliver outdated weapons of Russian origin to the United States. To justify the decision, Noboa insists the equipment is no longer war material, but rather scrap metal. As such, giving it to the US does not not violate any end user certificates signed with Russia, as Russia claims, since those agreements only apply to usable military hardware. The Russian government is, of course, having none of it. Russias ambassador to Ecuador, Vladimir Sprinchan, warned at the time of Noboas announcement that Moscow would consider the delivery of Russian weapons to the US as an unfriendly move. As has now been confirmed by Washington, the Russian-made weapons will soon be on their way (if they are not already) to Ukraine where they will be used to kill Russian troops. Moscow has decided to retaliate on an economic front. And its main targets are two of Ecuadors most important export sectors: bananas and flowers. Bananas, Carnations and Humpback Flies On February 5, the Russian Consumer Protection and Phyto-Sanitary Inspectorate requested the suspension of import authorisations for five Ecuadorian banana exporters after allegedly detecting an infestation of humpback flies in a shipment of bananas from the Andean nation. Today (Feb 9), the Phytosanitary Contol Service applied the same measure to certain flowers coming from Ecuador, including carnations. For the sake of appearances, Moscow insists the restrictions are purely for health reasons and have nothing to do with the weapons deal. Their impact, however, is likely to be significant for a country that is already reeling from an economic crisis and whose cash-starved, debt-bloated government is in the process of unleashing yet another round of IMF-approved austerity in the hopes of securing further loans and credit lines from the Fund. Two days ago, Ecuadors congress refused to sign off on a proposed law to finance the war on the drug cartels by increasing VAT, from 12% to 15%. Noboa has proposed instead to gradually increase the tax rate to 15%, depending on the conditions of public finances and balances of payments. For Ecuadors embattled economy, bananas and carnations matter, a lot. The country is the worlds largest exporter of bananas and Russia is its second biggest customer after the European Union. Russia is an extremely important market for our countrys banana producers and exporters, said the Association of Banana Exporters of Ecuador (AEBE) in a press release: It is the final destination of 21% of all banana exports. 1.46 million crates [of the fruit] are sent weekly to Russia, meaning that this market generates around $757 million per year In addition, 25,000 workers work across the nation on plantations dedicated to supplying this market, which is particularly important for small producers. This is a fact that even Noboa, as a presidential candidate, openly acknowledged, even going so far as to caution against letting ideological passions shape Ecuadors relations with Russia: Russia is our third biggest trade partner. Many people do not understand this. And sometimes they get swept along by ideological passions. Russia helps to feed roughly a third of this countrys banana exporters. Noboas family has a significant stake in Ecuadors banana business. His father, Alvaro Noboa, is the owner of Noboa Corporacion, Ecuadors biggest banana company. He is Ecuadors richest man. But as his son admitted before the election, Noboa Corporacion does not export a single crate of bananas to the Russian market. This admission, now doing the rounds on social media, has fuelled speculation that Noboas decision to give the Russian-made weapons to the US, rather than being a reckless act by a political novice, is actually a ruthless business move against Noboa Corporacions biggest competitors. Whether true or not, Ecuadors banana growers are hurting. As the Ecuadorian economist Pablo Davalos notes, they are bearing the brunt of the fallout from Noboas decision to involve the country in the Ukraine conflict and there are no compensatory measures in place. At a recent rally, Fulto Serrano, a representative of Oro farmers group, said the sole cause of the problem was the governments donation of Russian-made weapons. Noboa, he said, will not be affected by the closure of the Russian market, while thousands of farmers around the country will. The result will be a glut of bananas, leading to a collapse in the price. A Clear Violation Before taking this step, Moscow gave the Noboa government a number of warnings. At a recent press conference, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, said the transfer of Russian-made weapons to the US represents a clear violation of the arms contracts Ecuador signed with Moscow: In the framework of the military-technical cooperation between Russia and Ecuador, the transfer of military material to third parties is forbidden without Russias prior written consent. Therefore, in [such an] event, Ecuador will be breaching its international obligations, which could have negative consequences for our future bilateral cooperation. Zakharova described Noboas decision as rash, taken under extreme pressure from interested overseas parties. She also tore to shreds Noboas scrap metal alibi: If [the weapons] were indeed scrap metal, as they call it in Ecuador, it would be hard to imagine Washington proposing to swap it all for modern equipment, for a not inconsiderable sum. The US has pledged to provide Ecuador with $200 million worth of pristine US-made weaponry, military equipment and defence systems in exchange for the Russian scrap metal. Until yesterday (Feb 8), neither Quito nor Washington had publicly confirmed why the US wanted the Russian-made weapons in the first place, which allowed the Noboa government to maintain the charade that it was not violating the End User Certificate the Ecuadorian State had signed with Russia. But now the US government is openly admitting that Ecuadors Russian-made weaponry will be heading to Ukraine. In an interview with Teleamazonas, Kevin Sullivan, the deputy assistant secretary for South America in the US State Department, described the weapons swap as an arrangement for transferring equipment to the government of Ukraine which is fighting against the Russian invasion. In other words, the weapons, rather than being consigned to the scrap heap, are in good enough condition to be used on the battlefield against Russian soldiers. Of course, the impact Ecuadors arsenal of Russian-made weapons has on the Ukraine-Russia conflict will be practically zero. But the mere fact the Biden Administration is still requesting the weaponry at this late stage in proceedings speaks to the desperate shortages of weapons and other equipment Ukrainian forces continue to face, as many of its European allies have themselves run low on supplies. To fill the gap, the US and EU have been trying to source ammunition for the Russian-made weapons that Ukrainian soldiers are more familiar with from countries around the world, with varying degrees of success. [N]ow they are buying Soviet and Russian weapons in Asia, in Africa, in Latin America to send them to Ukraine, Andrey Koshkin, a professor of Political Analysis and Socioeconomic Processes at the Plekhanov University of Economics, based in Russia, told Sputnik (in Spanish). We are up against this, because it means [Russian weapons] will be pointed at us. By hitting Ecuador where it hurts most i.e. its export economy Russia is sending a very clear message to other Latin American economies that donating Russian weapons to the US cause in Ukraine will have very serious consequences. As we reported a few weeks ago, Argentinas President Javier Milei has, like Noboa, expressed strong support for the Zelensky cause- The Milei government has even flirted with the idea of sending weapons to Ukraine but doing so could open up the country to a Russian ban on exports of Russian fertilisers, which are essential for Argentinas huge agricultural sector. Washingtons request for Russian-made weaponry may, of course, serve other ends, including to reduce Russian arms sales and influence in Latin America with a view to supplanting those sales and influence. In the case of Ecuador, the US will be supplying more than 20,000 bulletproof vests and more than a million dollars in security and emergency response equipment, including ambulances and defence logistical support vehicles, according to a White House statement from two weeks ago, just after a visit to Ecuador by President Bidens Special Adviser for the Americas Christopher Dodd and Commander of the United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) General Laura Richardson. The main takeaway from that statement? US involvement in Ecuadors war against the drug cartels is about to grow in a very big way: [I]n the coming days, the FBI will increase its personnel in-country to support the Ecuadorian National Police and Attorney Generals Office. In addition, the Department of Homeland Security is deploying personnel to support the ongoing training of the police and prosecutors; offering additional support in digital forensics and other analysis critical to targeting gang members, drug trafficking networks, and corrupt officials; and providing key training and technical assistance with respect to protection of executive officials. USAID also is augmenting support for its municipal security programs, including support for crisis communications. Where Is Ecuadors Former President Lasso? While all of this is happening, the former President of Ecuador Guillermo Lasso, under whose mandate Ecuador descended into chaos, is out of the country. Lasso, a former banker and Coca Cola executive, couldnt complete his presidential term due to the overhanging threat of impeachment. He was ultimately brought down by a string of scandals, including, ironically, one revolving around his and his brother-in-laws alleged ties to the Albanian mafia, which controls the cocaine routes between South America and Europe. Lassos presidential campaign was allegedly partly financed by the Albanian mafia. As revealed in the Gran Padrino (Great Godfather) investigation by independent news outlet La Posta, Lassos brother-in-law, Danilo Carrera, a well-connected banker who had huge influence over Lassos government, was also doing business with Ruben Cherres, a notorious businessman with close ties to the Albanian mafia who was brutally murdered last summer. Ties have also been unearthed between Carrera, the Albanian mafia and Banco Guayaquil, the bank that Lasso once led as executive president and chairman of the board. According to official accounts, Lasso was the mastermind behind Plan Ecuador, the US-designed drug-eradication program that is now being put into effect by his successor, Daniel Noboa. One of Lassos last acts was to sign two agreements with Washington that allow for the presence of the US military in Ecuadorian waters and Ecuadorian soil. In other words, the US signed an agreement to wage war on the drug cartels in Ecuador with a government that appears to have been in league with at least one of those cartels. Lasso has been out of the country for some time. This week, he told Ecuadors Congress that today (Feb 9) he will be attending the funeral of the former president of Chile, Sebastian Pinera, who died in a plane crash. Following that, he said he will remain outside the country from February 10 to 29 for personal reasons. The reason why this is suspicious is that the Albanian mafia to which Lasso and his brother-in-law are alleged to have close ties was the target of dozens of police raids this week in both Ecuador and Spain, leading to the capture of over 30 members of the transnational crime group, including the alleged kingpin Dritan Gjika. Gjikas drug cartel is accused of transporting shipments of cocaine from Ecuador to Europe by concealing the drug among shipments of bananas loaded onto cargo ships in Ecuador that are later unloaded at the Spanish port of Malaga and other entry points into Europe. For the moment, Lassos brother-in-law, Danilo Carrero, is under house arrest for his suspected involvement in an embezzlement scheme. Other suspects close to the former president have also been arrested this week including Hernan Luque, who served as Lassos delegate on the board of directors of the company that runs all of Ecuadors state-owned businesses. Luque was captured by Argentine police in Buenos Aires and is sought for extradition back to Quito. All of which begs the question: will Lasso be coming back to Ecuador at all? Biden classified docs report brings no criminal charges, but enough to invoke 25th Amendment: critics FOX Biden refers to Egypts Sisi as president of Mexico Al Jazeera My memory is fine: Joe Biden rages as age question resurfaces FT. Poetic interlude: Do not go gentle into that good night, Old age should burn and rave at close of day; Rage, rage against the dying of the light. Though wise men at their end know dark is right, Because their words had forked no lightning they Do not go gentle into that good night. Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light. Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight, And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way, Do not go gentle into that good night. Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light. And you, my father, there on the sad height, Curse, bless, me now with your fierce tears, I pray. Do not go gentle into that good night. Rage, rage against the dying of the light. Get a cup of coffee. The Putin interview is over 2 hours, although 1.25X is a fine listening speed. I just started it myself and will add comments. There is a transcript but you have to subscribe to Tuckers venture to access it, so its not proper to hoist it, but I expect to post some snippets. As Tucker points out at the top, Putin starts with a long history of the Russia and the Ukraine region. If youve read his speeches, even ones before the Maidan coup, youll see he likes this framing. Like Tucker, I find this an odd choice, particularly the length of the recap. Update: As I am partway through this talk, stylistically it seems very similar to Putins domestic press briefings, where he likes reciting details for the sake of completeness but also to demonstrate his command of the subject matter. But press briefing is not the same as a conventional Western one-on-one interview, even though Putin takes and even seems to enjoy tough questions from Russian and foreign reporters. Note this talk differs markedly from the Oliver Stone 4 hour interview series, broadcast in 2017. Even though many of Putins responses then were lengthy, the talk felt like more of an exchange. Did Putin have more confidence in Stones understanding of the background than he did with Tucker? Further update: This talk was flabby and Tucker blew this opportunity. Given that Putin often does 3-4 hour press sessions, and Tucker said there was no time limit, Tucker ran out of gas due to his difficulty in engaging effectively with Putin, as contrasted with the Stone interviews. Putin shut it down and Tucker didnt offer any reason to continue: Shall we end here, or is there anything else? I dont think Tucker was knowledgeable enough nor did he compensate with preparation. He appeared ignorant of many key issues germane to Putins decisions to invade, such at the US refusing to give written responses to Russian proposals in 2021, Zelensky asking for nukes in the February 2022 Munich Security Conference, and Ukraine increasing shelling of Donbass then as it was also massing troops. He might have been able to banter with Putin during his discussion of NATO expansion, for instance, but Tucker exhibited almost no independent point of view or meaningful preparation. Further thoughts: Tuckers translator was nowhere near as good as the one in the Oliver Stone series. The translations often had stilted sentence structures and awkward pacing, which may accurately replicate Russian grammar but is not English-friendly. The translator in the Stone interviews was a young man who sat next to Putin.as in provided by the Russian government, and Stone did the voice-over much later (Stone noted that one way the Western press set out to diminish Putin was via ugly-voiced translators). While there was some interesting tidbits, like a meeting Putin had with Condi Rice, Bill Gates and Bill Burns back in the day, the only thing new to me was a Putin claim about the failed Istanbul negotiations. Recall Russia had troops near Kiev, which most experts saw as a pinning operation. They were clearly too few to take Kiev, but sufficient to force Ukraine to keep meaningful forces there. Russia pulled them out in early April, depicting it as a good will gesture based on negotiation progress. Military experts claimed the Russian forces were being harassed enough that they needed to be reinforced and/or rotated, and the good will was an excuse. Per Putin: We havent achieved our aims yet because one of them is de-nazification. This means the prohibition of all kinds of neo-Nazi movements. This is one of the problems that we discussed during the negotiation process, which ended in Istanbul early this year. And it was not our initiative because we were told by the Europeans in particular that it was necessary to create conditions for the final signing of the documents. My counterparts in France, in Germany said, How can you imagine them signing a treaty with a gun to their heads? The troops should be pulled back from Kiev. I said, all right. We withdrew the troops from Kiev. As soon as we pulled back our troops from Kiev, our Ukrainian negotiators immediately threw all our agreements reached in Istanbul into the bin and got prepared for a long standing armed confrontation with the help of the United States and its satellites in Europe. That is how the situation has developed, and that is how it looks now. If this is the operative truth (there are many levels of truth, something can be true but not the most germane truth), then Russia was snookered. Or has Putin elevated the importance of the European prodding in light of what he learned later about the bad faith dealings with the Minsk Accords? Ep. 73 The Vladimir Putin Interview pic.twitter.com/67YuZRkfLL Tucker Carlson (@TuckerCarlson) February 8, 2024 Note that Putin showing his stamina and famed memory comes the same day as the Special Counsel on the Biden classified documents next to his Corvette scandal concluded with the Special Counsel deciding not to prosecute despite finding Biden did willfully mishandle classified material, basically because Biden is too doddering to hold up to cross examination. From NBC: KYODO NEWS - Feb 9, 2024 - 23:00 | All, Japan, World The following is the latest list of selected news summaries by Kyodo News. ---------- Japanese conductor Seiji Ozawa dies at 88 TOKYO - Seiji Ozawa, the iconic Japanese conductor known for his work with the Boston Symphony Orchestra and other world-famous ensembles, died Tuesday due to heart failure at his home in Tokyo, his management office said Friday. He was 88. Ozawa suffered a series of health problems in recent years which forced him to cancel some of his concert and at music festival appearances. ---------- Japan OKs new foreign trainee program to strengthen rights protection TOKYO - The Japanese government on Friday approved a policy to replace its controversial trainee program for foreigners, featuring improved rights protection with increased flexibility for changing jobs and tougher oversight. The approval at a ministerial meeting followed proposals by a government panel last year but also takes into account discussions in the ruling Liberal Democratic Party to restrict trainees from transferring jobs for a maximum of two years. ---------- COVID patients again rising in Japan, experts warn of 10th wave TOKYO - The average number of coronavirus patients among designated hospitals across Japan has been rising for 11 consecutive weeks, health ministry data showed Friday, with experts warning the country has entered its 10th COVID-19 wave. The average among the roughly 5,000 medical institutions stood at 16.15 in the week through last Sunday, with the total number of patients they reported up 8 percent from the previous week to 79,605, the data showed. ---------- ANA launches new medium-haul LCC AirJapan targeting Asian tourists NARITA, Japan - ANA Holdings Inc. launched its third airline brand AirJapan on Friday, with the medium-haul low-cost carrier targeting the growing number of tourists to Japan from other Asian countries following the full removal of COVID-19 travel restrictions. The parent of All Nippon Airways said AirJapan will operate six round-trip flights per week between Narita airport near Tokyo and Bangkok using Boeing 787-8 aircraft, with its first flight departing the airport Friday afternoon. ---------- Japan's total debt swells to record 1,286.45 trillion yen in 2023 TOKYO - Japan's debt reached a record 1,286.45 trillion yen ($8.6 trillion) at the end of 2023, government data showed Friday, reflecting its heavy reliance on borrowing to meet spending needs to fight the COVID-19 pandemic and rising prices. The debt, more than twice the size of the Japanese economy, increased 29.45 trillion yen from December 2022. The world's third-largest economy continues to face an urgent need to restore its fiscal health, the worst among developed countries. ---------- IMF urges BOJ to wind down monetary easing, gradually raise rates TOKYO - The International Monetary Fund on Friday urged the Bank of Japan to end its yield cap program and other unprecedented monetary easing steps while gradually raising interest rates as a result of the country's improving inflation outlook. In normalizing monetary policy, the BOJ should take a "gradual and well-communicated" approach to anchor market expectations of the shift after a decade of powerful monetary easing that was designed to attain its goal of stable inflation at 2 percent, the IMF said. ---------- Japan making "concrete" efforts toward summit with N. Korea: Kishida TOKYO - Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said Friday that Japan has been making "various, concrete" efforts to realize a summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, as Tokyo is aiming to resolve the long-standing issue of Pyongyang's past abductions of Japanese nationals. "I believe it is extremely important for me to take the initiative and build a relationship" with Kim, Kishida told a parliamentary session. "I have to refrain from going into details, but I am constantly working (on North Korea) through various channels." ---------- Toyota to resume some domestic output for exports after data fraud NAGOYA - Toyota Motor Corp. said Friday it will restart some domestic production at two group firms next week for exports, two weeks after output suspension in response to a data rigging scandal at an affiliated diesel engine supplier. The two group companies -- Toyota Auto Body Co. and Gifu Auto Body Co. -- halted production at their four plants on Jan. 29 after they were unable to procure diesel engines from the affiliated engine supplier Toyota Industries Corp. Video: Dashcam footage shows houses collapse in New Year's Day quake Available live in multiple languages on the NATO website, CCTV, EBU Worldfeed, to EBU news exchange, as well as NATO News on YouTube. Video, photos and transcript will be available afterwards on the NATO Website, and on natomultimedia.tv Brace for impact Joe Bidens victory dance in South Carolina down on the ol Democratic Party Plantation, where they grows votes didnt last long. By Sunday, a rogue satellite named Tucker Carlson was spotted orbiting over Russia, Russia, Russia, a country you have to say three times so that people get how serious it is. Carlson threatens to actually sit down in the same room with Putin, Putin, Putin the antithesis of Joe Biden, since Putin actually operates as head-of-state and convey Mr. Ps thoughts and opinions to the citizens of America via the rascally social media platform called X. (Article by James Howard Kunstler republished from Kunstler.com) Do you realize the danger of exposing Americans to what this Putin might say? Hearing him express his thoughts about the world situation in a leisurely format which Putin does regularly among his own people (Ive seen him do it!) is liable to inform Americans that their own political leadership is a party of mental illness. Even without this new provocation of a Carlson / Putin colloquy, folks in the land of the free and the home of the brave have begun to grok just how insane things have gone under Joe Biden blobism. And that darn conversation comes just egg-zackly at the moment when our Senate is attempting to package a bill tying a $60-billion taxpayer gift to Ukraine with a border security law that will forbid more than 8,500 foreigners on any given day to enter the USA illegally. Sweet deal, huh? Er. . . maybe not. On the House side of Congress, Speaker Mike Johnson says, No way, Jose. So, do you really want to chance this Putin guy actually explaining calmly and clearly to folks here how our own State Department cooked up this war in Ukraine, and keeps it going month after month? Figures such as the ex-conservative Bill Kristol (now blob cheerleader), want to prevent the Tucker Carlson satellite from re-entering the USA after its Moscow visit. Mr. Kristol is apparently under the illusion that we are at war with Russia. Somebody please inform him that this is just not so. Strictly speaking, Russia is just another European nation that Americans can visit on a visa. Thats a fact, Jack. And if you happen to be there, and youre a journalist, and Putin, Putin, Putin agrees to an interview, well. . . you sit down and talk to the guy. . . and record it. . . and let people around the world decide what to think about it. I dont know about you, but that sounds a little. . . I dunno. . . fascist-y to me. Which is the dirty secret of the Party of Mental Illness that folks in the USA are beginning to grok. All their blather about our democracy is a smokescreen for the lust to shutdown free speech at all costs and push everybody around. It will be interesting to see who shows up at the jetway when Mr. Carlson actually does land back in America. The FBI, you think? With a set of leg-irons (like they did with Peter Navarro)? Mr. Putin might also explain how immigration works in Russia, Russia, Russia, where you have to fill out an application, explain who you are, and be evaluated as worthy to enter. Not everybody makes the grade. But, surprise, surprise, surprise, not everybody seeks to enter a country with good intentions. Can you imagine that? The Party of Mental illness in America does not believe that anyone can have less than good intentions. At least thats what they pretend (because they are mentally ill). So, anyone at all can drift across the Mexican border into the USA. They call that diversity and inclusion. Its a thought problem. We are letting a lot of people with probably less than good intentions into our country. The home folks are getting a bit riled up about it. The home folks are certainly not falling for Nikki Haleys bullshit. Nikki Haley is trying to out-Biden Joe Biden. She appeared the other night as the featured guest-star on the blobs comedy show, Saturday Night Live, doing her impression of a mentally ill presidential candidate. Nikki excels at that. She is represented by the blobs CIA talent agency. The same agency handles the vote tabulation machines around the USA, so lets see how Nikki does in the South Carolina Republican primary on February 24. Joe Biden got 97 percent of the vote there last week. Stunning and awesome! Can Nikki beat that? The Zephyrs of spring are hardly nascent and even in the cruel depths of winter we are beginning to see an uprising stir throughout Western Civ. The farmers have had enough of being pushed around, overtaxed, and blustered and have taken the lead in disrupting the bad intentions of the Euroblob. The American truck convoy is headed to Texas to assist the Texans in controlling the border that the USAblob refuses to control. The court cases against Mr. Trump are wobbling like $1.99 gyroscopes. And who was not horrified by the act that E. Jean Carroll put on with Rachel Maddow on MSNBC? There is your political mental illness in a neat snapshot. Do you really want your country to be like that? E. Jean Carroll is on Maddow laughing about what shes going to do with Trumps money: First thing, Rachel, you and I are going to go shopping. What do you want? Penthouse? Its yours as her lawyer cringes beside her. pic.twitter.com/CrhKF8CPZv Greg Price (@greg_price11) January 30, 2024 Read more at: Kunstler.com Adapt 2030: David DuByne laments how FARMER PROTESTS in Europe arent being talked about Brighteon.TV David DuByne has lamented that the farmer protests in Europe aren't being talked about during the Feb. 2 episode of his program "Adapt 2030" on Brighteon.TV "This is the world's No. 1 story that's not being spoken about in any way, shape or form. It's being hidden from the media; you know why? Because it's a continuation of humanity coming together," he said. "Are we back to serfdom? It seems like they are trying to take us that way and the farmers just are not having it. Overregulation, overtaxing, dumping of grains from the Ukraine. They are at that wall behind them, and there's nothing more dangerous than putting something behind a wall that has no escape," he continued. "Their backs are against the wall, and we've seen it in history. Those that have nothing else to lose, lose it. And they have completely united in a front to cut off the food, cut off the roads until the changes are made." According to DuByne, the media blackout about the protest stems from the supposed leaders of the world fearing that humanity is uniting to fight back and say "no" against the oligarchs wanting to make people serfs again. "We are going to relegate them back to the dustbin of history. Serfdom in the 1400s is gone. It's not coming back. They wish it would, but it's not going to." The "Adapt 2030" host also mentioned that in France, troops have already been brought in to try to stop the protesting farmers. Tanks, police officers and 15,000 soldiers have been going up against a few farmers. Despite this, the French farmers had already blocked the roads going into Paris and caused a siege of the French capital. DuBuyne added that in addition to the roads being closed, rail operations are being disrupted across Europe, especially in France. (Related: French farmers join German farmers in blocking highways with tractors, throwing manure to stop globalist agenda that targets farms for destruction.) Power brokers are terrified of European farmers uniting Given the situation, French Interior Minister Gerard Darmanin has called on law enforcement to exercise "moderation." According to a report by the Le Monde newspaper, he instructed them to refrain from "intervening at the blockade points" and instead work to "secure them." DuByne continued that the farmers' slogan "No Farmers, No Food" is easy to understand. The whole point of the protests in France and other countries was to cause a mass famine across Europe to cause and direct political change against the oligarchs. Thus, the so-called "power brokers" are now terrified of the farmers all across the continent uniting for change. "It's great when one country unites and everybody else stands around it, looks and says 'You know what, OK it's your country, your thing.' This time, all the countries are uniting together across Europe," he said. The "Adapt 2030" host also warned that the angry and hungry people are going to overrun the elite centers of power and demand change. Moreover, DuByne also pointed to many European Union flags being ripped across Europe. The protesting farmers aren't just tearing the flags but also burning them, stomping and spitting on them and using them as floor rags. "They are done with the European Union. We just saw $54 billion worth of funds heading over to Ukraine, yet the farmers are losing their subsidies for diesel fuel. Farmers protest against the EU." Follow Revolt.news for more stories about the ongoing farmer protests happening in Europe. Watch the full Feb. 2 episode of "Adapt 2030" below. "Adapt 2030" with David DuByne airs every Friday at 2-3 p.m. on Brighteon.TV. More related stories: German truckers, factory workers join farmers protest against incumbent left-cult government thats trying to DESTROY FARMS and the food supply. Hundreds of German farmers set up disruptive road blockades to protest punitive taxes. Netherlands declares STATE OF EMERGENCY to stop farmers from protesting green tyranny. Farmer protests erupt across Europe over GREEN POLICIES that demand the obliteration of food production. Sources include: Brighteon.com LeMonde.fr After decades of fighting Big Pharma drug cartels, Dr. Burzynski begins to reform cancer treatments in the U.S. The United States government has a history of targeting any American doctor, researcher or product developer who professes that there are cures for cancer. Some of the most brilliant researchers and doctors have been forced to flee the United States in order to treat cancer patients using an individualized, holistic approach. Others have stood their ground and fought back against the Big Pharma drug cartels. For several decades, Dr. Stanislaw Burzynski has been persecuted for advancing cancer treatments. He has stared down the Big Pharma drug cartels and fought for more advanced cancer treatment methods for his patients. His medical research has been kept from the public view for decades; however, cured patients, court cases and independent journalists have brought more public awareness to his treatment protocols. The pitfalls of conventional cancer treatment Cancer treatment should be a humanitarian pursuit, with no profit incentive. Sadly, in the United States, cancer treatment is strictly a business -- an expensive gambit of poisoning and burning patients for profit. Cancer patients are immediately cast under a spell of fear as soon as a first cancer diagnosis is made. Second and third opinions are important, but the cancer industry uses a hasty and ruthless process that leaves the patient no time to think critically and no time to seek a more holistic approach. Cancer patients are oftentimes made sicker with the conventional treatment protocols, and some people are pushed to the brink of death by the treatments and secondary illnesses caused by immunosuppression. These treatment protocols, while sometimes necessary in an acute life-or-death situation, never truly get to the root of the issue. As the patients immune system is suppressed, their body is setup to suffer through reoccurring cancers and other immunodeficiency issues. Dr. Burzynski uses an individualized approach to advance cancer treatment Dr. Burzynski understands these issues and sees this industry for what it is. He has meticulously researched more advanced protocols to sustain his patients and improve their quality of life. This is a direct threat to the Big Pharma drug cartels, which use government regulatory agencies to target these successful cancer treatment protocols. Dr. Burzynski has faced criticism for taking an approach that is different from chemotherapy and radiation. The government has persecuted him several times, claiming he violated federal laws related to prescribing drugs, among other complaints. The Burzynski Clinic was established in 1977 and continues to provide advanced and cutting-edge cancer treatments. Burzynski believes that each patient deserves a personalized treatment that maximizes effectiveness and minimizes side effects. To accomplish this, the doctors must first understand the patients unique genetic make-up. They do this by using genomic tests and analyses. Next, the doctors use a combination of targeted therapies, nutritional counseling and immunotherapies, as well as conventional therapies if the need arises. The doctors aren't afraid to use investigational agents. Dr. Burzynski uses the bodys own peptides antineoplastons to help kill cancer cells and keep them from growing. According to his research, people with cancer lack, or are deficient in, these peptides. In 1986, Burzynski presented the Texas Medical Board with evidence that 40 patients had been cured of their cancers. Instead of working with Burzynski in curing cancer and innovating treatment protocols, the Texas Medical Board decided to revoke his medical license two years later. Sixty patients petitioned the board to drop their phony charges and a trial ensued. The judge found Burzynski NOT GUILTY of any crime. Thats when the U.S. FDA stepped in and took Burzynski to federal court, persecuting him. In federal court, there were testimonies of cured cancer (without chemotherapy and radiation). Members of Congress then petitioned to exonerate Burzynski and put his research through phase two clinical trials. Today, the FDA is in the process of approving three new drugs based on Burzynskis research. After decades of fighting Big Pharma drug cartels, Dr. Burzynski and his colleagues are beginning to reform cancer treatments in the U.S., but the fight against a broken and corrupt system will continue. Watch the FULL documentary on Rumble: Sources include: 100PercentFedUp.com Rumble.com Florida Congressman defends Israels brutal killing of civilians in Gaza Several members of the antiwar activist organization recently confronted Florida Congressman Brian Mast about the Palestinian babies the Israeli military is slaughtering in Gaza. Mast, who previously served in the Israeli Defense Forces, told the activists that the Palestinian babies were not innocent. (Article by Jose Nino republished from BigLeaguePolitics.com) Medea Benjamin, Code Pinks co-founder, asked Mast the following question: You havent seen the pictures of all the babies being killed? The Florida Congressman responded, These are not innocent Palestinian civilians across the world. Another activist asked Mast about the 500,000 Palestinians who are being subject to starvation conditions in the Gaza Strip. The half a million people starving to death are people that should go out there and put a government in place that doesnt go out there and attack Israel on a daily basis, Mast stated. Mast was also questioned about the massive amount of destruction the Israeli military has brought about in Gaza, which is on par with the Allies massive bombing campaigns in World War II. Theyve destroyed more infrastructure in Gaza than they did in Dresden, one activist noted about the infamous bombing campaign in Dresden, Germany in the final months of World War II. Mast responded, And theres more infrastructure that needs to be destroyed. Mast appealed to World War II tropes to justify Israels punitive campaign in Gaza, which has resulted in the slaughter of over 27,000 Palestinians. I would encourage the other side to not so lightly throw around the idea of innocent Palestinian civilians, as frequently said, he proclaimed on the floor of the US House back in November. I dont think we would so lightly throw around the term innocent Nazi civilians during World War II. In October, Mast donned his IDF uniform on Capitol Hill to demonstrate his dual loyalty to the public. As the only member to serve with both the United States Army and the Israel Defense Forces, I will always stand with Israel, he posted on X at the time. Mast was first elected in 2016 and has been a staunch supporter of Israel and other neoconservative hobby horses. Hes part of the Israel First wing of the GOP, which still dominates the party. Mast is the consummate example of a treasonous politician who prefers serving the interests of a parasitic foreign country as opposed to standing up for the American people. If Congress is to move in an America First direction, the likes of Mast must be relieved of the burden of holding higher office. Politicians like Mast are the ones who perpetuate the neocon/Zionist status quo that dominates foreign policy decisionmaking. Read more at: BigLeaguePolitics.com Study: HEART ATTACKS are declining among older people but INCREASING in young adults Cases of heart attacks among older adults have been declining, but are on the rise among younger adults in the past decade according to a study. The paper published November 2019 in the American Journal of Medicine examined more than 2,000 patients admitted for heart attack in two large academic hospitals from the year 2000 to 2016. It found that 20.5 percent of heart attacks occurred in individuals 40 years old or younger. These younger patients faced the same risk of death from subsequent heart attacks, strokes or related conditions as their older counterparts. The occurrence of cardiovascular problems among those aged 20 to 50 has seen a troubling surge in 2020 and 2021 and contributes to declining life expectancy. However, about half of people under the age of 45 do not know they could be at risk for heart disease. Young adults who had heart problems seemed healthy before their heart attacks, but the truth is that they had at least one of these conditions high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity or diabetes. Heart attacks, also called myocardial infarctions, happen when the heart muscle does not get enough oxygen due to a blockage in the blood supply to a part of the heart. Younger adults experience the same symptoms as older adults, such as chest pain or discomfort that may spread to the arms, jaw, neck or back, along with shortness of breath, weakness or feeling faint. Other forms of heart diseases, including cardiomyopathy, irregular heart rhythms and heart failure, are among the heart conditions affecting this younger demographic, and the signs and symptoms mirror those experienced by older adults. Eugene Yang, chair of the American College of Cardiology's Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases Council, said genetic influences may play a role in these heart attacks. However, he stressed that the majority of these cases stem from harmful lifestyle habits that often develop in childhood. Poor food choices, a lack of exercise and substance use further exacerbate the risk of heart attacks. COVID-19 injections contributed to rise in cardiovascular issues However, the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has added another layer to the issue. Following the rollout of the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, many young men developed heart disease in particular myocarditis, the inflammation of the heart muscle. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has insisted that cases of myocarditis and pericarditis (heart lining inflammation) in males aged 16 and up are rare, dismissing such claims as "conspiracy theories." Media personality Dr. Drew Pinsky begged to differ, however. During an October 2023 appearance on "The Megyn Kelly Show," Pinsky disclosed a July 2023 study published in Circulation about this matter. According to the paper, 50 percent of young men who developed post-vaccine myocarditis now face permanent damage to their hearts. (Related: Israeli study links COVID-19 vaccines to heart failure in young adults.) "It's a large study, and it showed that about half of the young males that got myocarditis had permanent heart damage. That means we don't know what percentage are going to be disabled by this as they get older, develop heart failure or are going to need cardiac transplants," he said. "It's breathtaking, this study. And why it wasn't a big headline I don't understand why people aren't reacting to it." Head over to HeartDisease.news for more stories like this. Watch Del Bigtree and Jefferey Jaxen discuss Pfizer missing the deadline to submit myocarditis data for its COVID-19 vaccine on "The HighWire." This video is from the Scriptural Scrutiny channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Study: COVID-19 vaccines increase risk of heart attack by 127%. New study confirms link between COVID-19 vaccines and serious heart problems. Cardiologists sound alarm over COVID vaccines, say more doses mean greater heart risk. STUDY: Covid "vaccine" spike proteins damage heart cells, alter heart function and they're in the booster shots, too Sources include: StudyFinds.org AmJMed.com Revolver.news AHAJournals.org People get water in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, Feb. 8, 2024. Climate change and frequent years of drought have deprived 21 million Afghans, almost half of Afghanistan's population, of access to potable water, Deputy Head of National Environment Program Agency (NEPA) Abdul Salam Haqqani said. Afghanistan has been experiencing years of drought, which led to a recession of underground water including in the national capital Kabul, as major parts of some 6 million people of the city have been facing extreme water scarcity. (Photo by Saifurahman Safi/Xinhua) KABUL, Feb. 7 (Xinhua) -- Climate change and frequent years of drought have deprived 21 million Afghans, almost half of Afghanistan's population, of access to potable water, Deputy Head of National Environment Program Agency (NEPA) Abdul Salam Haqqani said. "Twenty-one million people, which is half of the population of the country, face a lack of water and do not have access to drinking water," local television channel TOLOnews quoted Haqqani on Wednesday as saying. Haqqani also noted that climate change has also destroyed 3 percent of the war-torn country's forests and decreased the rainfall by 37 percent. Afghanistan has been experiencing years of drought, which led to a recession of underground water including in the national capital Kabul, as major parts of some 6 million people of the city have been facing extreme water scarcity. In the meantime, Rohullah Amin, head of the climate change department of NEPA, according to the TOlOnews, has said that coping with the problems arising out of climate change requires an estimated 20 billion U.S. dollars. Similarly, Afghanistan's Deputy Minister for Higher Education Lutfullah Khairkhwah has revealed that a global conference on climate change with the participation of Afghan and international experts will be held at Nangarhar University in the eastern city of Jalalabad in the coming days. Afghan children get water from a water tank in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, Feb. 8, 2024. Climate change and frequent years of drought have deprived 21 million Afghans, almost half of Afghanistan's population, of access to potable water, Deputy Head of National Environment Program Agency (NEPA) Abdul Salam Haqqani said. Afghanistan has been experiencing years of drought, which led to a recession of underground water including in the national capital Kabul, as major parts of some 6 million people of the city have been facing extreme water scarcity. (Photo by Saifurahman Safi/Xinhua) Afghan children fetch water in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, Feb. 8, 2024. Climate change and frequent years of drought have deprived 21 million Afghans, almost half of Afghanistan's population, of access to potable water, Deputy Head of National Environment Program Agency (NEPA) Abdul Salam Haqqani said. Afghanistan has been experiencing years of drought, which led to a recession of underground water including in the national capital Kabul, as major parts of some 6 million people of the city have been facing extreme water scarcity. (Photo by Saifurahman Safi/Xinhua) Afghan children wait to get water in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, Feb. 8, 2024. Climate change and frequent years of drought have deprived 21 million Afghans, almost half of Afghanistan's population, of access to potable water, Deputy Head of National Environment Program Agency (NEPA) Abdul Salam Haqqani said. Afghanistan has been experiencing years of drought, which led to a recession of underground water including in the national capital Kabul, as major parts of some 6 million people of the city have been facing extreme water scarcity. (Photo by Saifurahman Safi/Xinhua) This photo taken on Feb. 8, 2024 shows a water tank in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan. Climate change and frequent years of drought have deprived 21 million Afghans, almost half of Afghanistan's population, of access to potable water, Deputy Head of National Environment Program Agency (NEPA) Abdul Salam Haqqani said. Afghanistan has been experiencing years of drought, which led to a recession of underground water including in the national capital Kabul, as major parts of some 6 million people of the city have been facing extreme water scarcity. (Photo by Saifurahman Safi/Xinhua) Netanyahu REJECTS Hamas offer to release ALL hostages for a ceasefire further proof that the Israeli leader doesnt care about his own people Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has once again rejected Hamas' terms for a ceasefire in Gaza , which includes the return of all hostages held in the Gaza Strip. Hamas' proposal backed by the United States called for the Israeli hostages the militant group still held to be released in three phases, with each phase lasting 45 days, in exchange for a ceasefire. In the first phase, Hamas demanded the release of all Palestinian women and children under the age of 19 held in Israeli jails many of whom are being held without charges in illegal involuntary detention and all prisoners 50 and older. In return, Hamas would release one group of civilian Israeli hostages currently held in Gaza. During this first stage, Israeli forces would redeploy outside of populated areas of Gaza, and Israel would agree to allow some reconstruction to begin. In the second phase, Hamas is demanding the release of an additional 1,500 Palestinian prisoners, including 500 serving long-term sentences, in exchange for Israeli soldiers held in Gaza. During this phase, Israel would have to agree to the launching of a comprehensive reconstruction program for Gaza. In the last stage, Hamas and Israel would exchange the bodies of the dead. During these three phases, Hamas hopes that it could continue negotiations with Israel for a long-term truce. But Netanyahu has called ending the war a "red line" he is unwilling to cross, likely because of his unpopularity and the likelihood of his ouster following a ceasefire. Netanyahu calls Hamas' demands "delusional" Netanyahu's dismissal of the proposal is a massive diplomatic setback for the United States. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was pushing for Netanyahu's extremist government to agree to the ceasefire before the IDF began a possible offensive on the southern Gazan city of Rafah, which lies near the border with Egypt and where over a million displaced Palestinians have sought refuge. (Related: Jewish Sen. Bernie Sanders to block U.S. taxpayer funding for Israeli weapons.) "Giving in to Hamas's bizarre demands, that we heard right now, not only won't bring the release of hostages. It will just invite another massacre," claimed Netanyahu in a news conference, where he further claimed that Israel can achieve its goal of eliminating Hamas and ending all security threats coming from Gaza within a matter of months. Netanyahu called Hamas' proposal "delusional" and pledged anew to totally destroy the militant group, claiming there is no alternative for Israel but to bring about the elimination of Hamas. "Continued military presence [in Gaza] is a necessary condition for the release of the hostages," he said. Despite Netanyahu's claims, Gershon Baskin, an Israeli hostage negotiator who helped broker a prisoner exchange with Hamas back in 2011, noted that there is actually "some room to maneuver" with regards to Hamas' proposal, "although it will be very difficult." Negotiations are set to continue. Israeli officials have asked the Egyptian government, which holds strong influence over Hamas' top commanders, to pressure the militant group to come up with a different response to the U.S.-backed proposal. Blinken himself has expressed optimism that negotiations could come up with a fruitful agreement. "There are clearly nonstarters in what [Hamas has] put forward," said Blinken at a press conference in Tel Aviv. "But we also see space in what came back to pursue negotiations, to see if we can get to an agreement. That's what we intend to do." "And these things are always negotiations," he added. "It's not flipping a light switch. It's not yes or no. There's invariably back and forth." Meanwhile, Hamas senior spokesperson Sami Abu Zuhri described Netanyahu's remarks and dismissal of the proposal "political bravado" and further proof that Israel's extremist leaders intend to pursue more conflict in the region. Watch this clip showing how Israeli peace activists are also calling for a ceasefire in Gaza by holding protests all over Israel. This video is from the Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Netanyahu REJECTS call for creation of a Palestinian state, says Israel must control EVERYTHING "from the river to the sea." Only 15% of Israelis want Netanyahu to remain prime minister after the war. U.S. vetoed Gaza ceasefire on same day it profited from arms sale to Israel. Israeli experts do not believe Netanyahu can destroy Hamas and bring the hostages home. Hostages held by Hamas in Gaza will be almost impossible to rescue, warns counterterrorism expert. Sources include: WSJ.com Reuters.com Brighteon.com NYPD orders officers to tolerate violent gangs whose members are illegal immigrants to make the police look good A New York City resident recently released a video on X, formerly Twitter, revealing that the New York Police Department has been given orders not to arrest violent illegal migrants' gangs because the cops "do not want to look bad." "Guys, the violence here in the last two weeks in New York City has gotten so bad. Basically, all the migrants have created these little sub-gangs according to where they have derived from. The Colombians are sticking together. The Venezuelans are sticking together," the woman said in the clip. She added that her friend, who is an NYPD officer, said that his superiors ordered them: "Don't make us look bad. Don't arrest any of them." "I saw my friend this weekend who is NYPD and he was telling me how crazy it is. And that they have direct orders that they can't even really arrest them [migrant criminals]. Unless it's a serious crime. Isn't that ***** sick? Meanwhile, you got citizens who live here and they jaywalk and the cops are like, take that piece of *** in. Let's go, $3,000 fine," she ranted on the social media post. New York Resident Says Illegal Immigrants In New York City Are Now Forming Gangs Based On Where They Are From. Illegals Are Committing Violent Crimes Her Friend Whos NYPD Said His Bosses Orders Were Don't make us look bad. Don't arrest any of them. Guys, the violence here pic.twitter.com/KCwFqutD2Q Wall Street Apes (@WallStreetApes) February 1, 2024 She even told a story about a very violent crime committed recently when a Venezuelan man was waiting in a food line. He tried to "hook up with some girl" who belonged to a Peruvian guy. The man from Peru got mad that he was trying to get his girl. And so, he stabbed him in the neck and killed the Venezuelan. An internet user commented on the post: "They have learned that you can do anything in NYC and get away with it. Criminal gangs will take and take until they start taking apartments and homes." Another commenter blamed what is happening to the kind of leaders Americans are installing into office. "So youre getting what you voted for and are now surprised? LMFAO. You voted for Biden and you wanted to be a sanctuary city, so please enjoy. Y'all are going to receive hundreds of thousands of new residents as we ship them to you from Texas in the next few weeks," he said. NAPWP, meanwhile, said that of course, mainstream media once again won't pick up this information. "We have been getting reports of immigrant crime coming in from all over the country and none of it is making the news media," the user said. Terrorist migrants brutal crimes and gang hacks in sanctuary cities Not only did some of the illegal aliens who commit crimes evade arrest, but those detained were released, thanks to the city's lax enforcement and sanctuary policies. And it is as if the Big Apple law enforcement never learns. Over the weekend, the NYPD which recently ordered police officers not to arrest migrant criminals to keep on "looking good" for the public, was attacked by a group of illegal migrants. A group of at least twelve migrants was congregating and being disorderly in Times Square near one of the many hotels New York City has converted to house illegal aliens. According to police investigators, a group of illegal migrants, most residing in city shelters, were gathering in that area to commit crimes. NYPD officers approached to break up the disorderly group, but a skirmish quickly broke out in full view of the startled tourists and other onlookers. Graphic video shows the group of illegal aliens kicking and punching the officers, sending them to the ground and injuring them. One of the illegal aliens even stole an officers phone, which has yet to be recovered. The criminals fled but the cops have arrested six of them. Of ten men, seven have criminal histories ranging from robbery to petty theft. The five arrested suspects were all released without bail because New York County District Attorney Alvin Bragg did not ask the judge to impose bail, even though each migrant's offense was "bail-eligible." One of them, Jhoan Boada, was caught smirking and giving the middle finger to waiting news cameras as he was set free. The other four have boarded a bus to the border town of Calexico, CA after giving fake names to a nonprofit providing tickets. (Related: CONFIRMED: Mexican cartels are now INSIDE the U.S. forming gangs and SNIPER NESTS to take out Americans.) Meanwhile, cops revealed that a "sophisticated" high-tech crime ring is operating in New York, too. A group of moped-riding migrants terrorizing New Yorkers used a hacker to breach bank accounts and make purchases at stores like Home Depot. It included people from several nations, including Venezuela, Ecuador, Honduras and Mexico, NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said. "There's not a Venezuelan shelter, there's not a Mexican shelter," he said. "They're all brought in together, along with other groups as well." But the Venezuelan-led gangs, including the suspected crooks busted, who were directed by a Venezuelan migrant named Victor Parra, 30 years old from the Bronx, tend to be more organized, he added. "Like you saw with yesterday's [robbery ring bust] where the proceeds are being shipped to Miami, Houston and eventually Colombia, they're a little more sophisticated in that they're hacking into the phones, stealing people's banking records." Visit NationalSecurity.news for more stories related to this. Sources for this article include: FairUS.org NYPost.com Pork-laden border bill a death wish for Republicans, warns Trump: Dont be stupid! A newly proposed bipartisan border security bill has upset Donald Trump , who called it "a death wish" for the GOP in a critical election year. Just hours after the bill was publicly released, the former president, who is once again running for office in 2024, took to Truth Social to express his views on its provisions. "Only a fool, or a Radical Left Democrat, would vote for this horrendous Border Bill, which only gives Shutdown Authority after 5000 Encounters a day, when we already have the right to CLOSE THE BORDER NOW, which must be done," Trump wrote in his typical random capitalization form. The legislation in question was crafted in part by Sen. James Lankford (R-Okla.), an alleged conservative. "This Bill is a great gift to the Democrats, and a Death Wish for The Republican Party," Trump continued in his post. "It takes the HORRIBLE JOB the Democrats have done on Immigration and the Border, absolves them, and puts it all squarely on the shoulders of Republicans." "Don't be STUPID!!! We need a separate Border and Immigration bill. It should not be tied to foreign aid in any way, shape or form!" (Related: The illegal aliens Gov. Abbott is bussing from Texas to New York are going on crime sprees in the Big Apple, a situation that the NYPD says is leading to a "total breakdown" of justice and society.) Not all Republicans support open borders Trump is not the only Republican who opposes the new border security bill. Numerous Republicans blasted it, including House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) who wrote on X that it will not even receive a vote in the House. Citing the same details as Trump, Scalise warned that the legislation will allow up to 5,000 illegal aliens a day to penetrate America's southern border while also granting automatic work permits to asylum recipients, which he called "a magnet for more illegal immigration." House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) is rejecting the bill as well, calling it the "Joe Biden / Chuck Schumer Open Border Bill." "House Republicans have already passed HR2 the Secure Our Border Act, which would actually secure the border and return to the effective Trump policies with the most secure border in our nation's history," Stefanik said. Officially unveiled the night of February 4, the legislation includes $20 billion for border security, if you can call it that, as well as $60 billion in fresh aid for Ukraine and $14.1 billion in fresh aid for Israel. Republicans at large had previously indicated that they would only support any further aid for Ukraine if it is paired with legislation to address the southern border. Trump, however, says the inclusion of any funding for Ukraine will likely render the bill a non-starter. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) issued his opposition to the legislation not long after it was released, stating that it is "even worse than we expected." Johnson then made it clear that the bill is "dead on arrival" in the House. Polls continue to show that most voters trust Trump over President Biden to better handle the immigration and border crisis. Especially in an election year, the Biden regime's open-borders policies and what they are doing to the nation are likely to hurt "the big guy's" chances at getting reelected, save for fraud. "This bill reads like it was drafted in Kiev," commented Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.). "It's a massive issue that a border bill for AMERICA is more about funding the wars of foreign countries rather than our own interests and people." Do you think Trump will win the 2024 election? Find out more at Trump.news. Sources for this article include: TheHill.com NaturalNews.com TheHill.com Putins rivals already waving the white flag as he cruises to another VICTORY in Russias elections Russian President Vladimir Putin is sure to snatch another victory and a fifth term thanks to his rivals, who are aware that they don't stand a chance against the incumbent. Leonid Slutsky, the leader of the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia (LDPR), remarked after registering his presidential candidacy in December: "I don't dream of beating Putin. What's the point?" Andrei Bogdanov from the Russian Party of Freedom and Justice, meanwhile, responded to a question if he had a chance to win: "Of course not. Do I look like an idiot?" While the 71-year-old Putin is running as an independent, he retains tight control over Russia's political system he had established during his 24 years in power. According to the Associated Press, prominent critics who could pose a potential challenge languish in jail and most independent media outlets are prohibited. Thus, his reelection in the country's March polls looks all but assured. Over the years, Putin has assembled a political system that squeezes out rivals seen as posing a threat. At times, however, it permits and encourages a handful of contenders who uphold a facade of fair elections while ultimately backing his line on the issues that the Kremlin cares about most. "It's a question of principle, said Paris-based Russian political analyst Tatyana Stanovaya. "He wants to reassure himself that people support him and he needs it to show the world that he still benefits from huge social support." "From Putin's point of view, this is a healthy, responsible and constructive opposition that understands the rules. But they are part of the vertical, and they are not really independent." (Related: Putin: Russian elections are far more HONEST and TRANSPARENT than rigged U.S. elections.) One notable independent opposition candidate was Alexei Navalny, who became active following his failed presidential bid in 2018. However, he and his supporters fell victim to Putin's crackdown on opposition figures. Navalny was convicted and is now serving a 19-year sentence in an Arctic prison colony. "Potemkin candidates" pose a pretend challenge to Putin "Candidates fielded by the main Kremlin-approved parties have publicly stated they won't criticize Putin," the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) said. "Despite their tightly managed nature, analysts say elections are important to Putin as a way to legitimize his continued rule. He can use the result he garners as evidence that he retains popular backing in Russia, wielding it against potential rivals and citing it at international summits." The outlet also recounted the stories of several "Potemkin candidates" who tried to challenge the incumbent. One such candidate, Vladimir Zhirinovsky, contested six presidential elections earning himself a reputation as a foil for Putin. Zhirinovsky, who founded the LDPR that Slutsky now leads, died in April 2022. The WSJ also recounted a more recent election in Russia, that of 2018. Putin found himself being "challenged" by two candidates socialite and TV presenter Ksenia Sobchak and farming tycoon Pavel Grudinin. Sobchak defended the incumbent's reputation and urged Russians not to "demonize" him, leading to accusations of her being a Kremlin plant. Meanwhile, Grudinin amassed so much grassroots support after he was nominated by the Communist Party of the Russian Federation the successor to the Soviet-era political party. Given this, authorities moved to rein him in with a propaganda campaign on both state TV and online that sought to discredit him. Putin garnered the No. 1 spot for Russia's elections in 2018 with 77.5 percent of the vote. Grudinin came in a distant second with 11.9 percent, while Sobchak landed at fourth place with less than two percent of the vote. Visit FakePolls.news for more stories about rigged elections. Watch former Rep. Ron Paul (R-KY) discusses the Biden administration's claim that Putin is meddling in the 2020 U.S. elections below. This video is from the What is happening channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: NGOs demand that NO ELECTIONS be held in Ukraine to "preserve democracy." Presidential candidates clash over Ukraine aid during first 2024 GOP primary debate. Permanent dictator: Zelensky declares NO MORE ELECTIONS in Ukraine until war ends. Sources include: WSJ.com Brighteon.com REVEALED: Justin Trudeau invited Nazi soldier to official Zelensky reception On Monday, it was revealed that Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau invited Yaroslav Hunka , the 98-year-old Ukrainian Waffen-SS veteran who received a standing ovation in the House of Commons, to a reception Trudeau hosted in honor of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. (Article by Hannah Nightingale republished from ThePostMillenial.com) Hunka did not attend the reception, which took place in Toronto on the same day as the House of Commons visit, the Globe and Mail reports, but the invitation from the Prime Minister raises questions on whether his background was checked and who approved his attendance. The invitation from Trudeau was sent to Hunka four days before the reception by the Office of Protocol of Canada. The reception, which took place at Fort York Armory, was attended by Trudeau, Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, and President Zelensky and wife Olena Zelenska, along with other members of Canadas Ukrainian community. The invitation, seen by the outlet, was sent through email with the subject line, "Invitation from the Prime Minister of Canada September 22, 2023." The email stated, "Dear Yaroslav Hunka, The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, is pleased to invite you to a special event. The event will take place on Friday, September 22, 2023, at 8.30 pm in Toronto, Ontario." The email urged for a reply by the following day and added, "Once we receive confirmation of your attendance, the formal invitation will be issued, including detailed information regarding registration and access." Trudeaus office said Hunkas name had been recommended by the Canadian Ukrainian Congress, alongside other members of the community, and that Trudeau had not been aware that Hunkas name was on the invitation list. Trudeau spokesperson Ann-Clara Vaillancourt said that looking back, Hunka should not have been invited. The Prime Minister had no knowledge of this individual before the independent recognition by the former Speaker of the House of Commons. Last September, there was a community event with the President of Ukraine in Toronto with over 1,000 people invited. Hundreds of Canadians were invited upon the recommendation of groups like the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, she said. The individual in questions name was submitted by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress. The individual did not attend. Knowing what is known now the individual shouldnt have been invited. On September 22, 2023, Hunka was honored during a joint session of Parliament in which Zelensky was present, receiving two standing ovations from the room. Then-Speaker Anthony Rota pointed out Hunka in the crowd, "He is a Ukrainian hero, a Canadian hero, and we thank him for all his service." Rota said Hunka was a "veteran from the Second World War who fought for Ukrainian independence against the Russians and continues to support the troops today even at his age of 98." Hunka was a soldier with the 14th "Galicia" division of the Waffen-SS, the military section of the Nazi SS, which was responsible for elements of terror from massive extermination camps to the daily torture and repression of citizens within occupied Europe. Rota later resigned from his post, stating at the time, "I reiterate my profound regret for my error in recognizing an individual in the House during the joint address to Parliament of President Zelensky," noting that "public recognition has caused pain to individuals and communities including the Jewish community in Canada and around the world, in addition to survivors of Nazi atrocities in Poland, among other nations." Trudeau later apologized, stating it was "a mistake that has deeply embarrassed Parliament and Canada." "All of us who were in this House on Friday regret deeply having stood and clapped even though we did so unaware of the context," Trudeau told reporters. "It was a horrendous violation of the memory of the millions of people who died in the Holocaust." Trudeau added that Canada had also sent an apology to Zelensky and the Ukrainian delegation. Read more at: ThePostMillenial.com Ex-defense chief: Royal Navy warships are unsatisfactory and lack power to attack Houthis on land According to a former Briton defense chief, the United Kingdom's warships are completely unsatisfactory and would not be strong enough to attack Yemeni Houthi land targets. The top official said none of the Royal Navy's destroyers can fire missiles at targets on land, leaving the United States to carry out the majority of strikes on the Shia Islamist political and military organization targets with support from Royal Air Force (RAF) planes from 1,500 miles away. "Its a scandal. This is what happens when the Royal Navy is forced to make crucial decisions which can affect capability," he said. The said source also claimed that the HMS Diamond, a warship considered a jewel in the naval crown stationed in the Red Sea, had not joined retaliatory strikes against Houthis because it did not have "the capability to fire to land targets." Instead, it had only been "directly involved in successfully destroying Houthi drones targeting shipping in the Red Sea," as per the Ministry of Defense (MoD). A former rear admiral also stated that the nation's weakness in striking the Iran-backed movement indicates how the Navy would be unable to "go toe to toe" with Chinese and Russian warships. Currently, the only weapons on destroyers that can fire at other ships or land are artillery guns at the front of each vessel. While U.S. destroyers can fire Tomahawk guided missiles at land targets, the U.K.'s only options for such strikes are deploying planes or submarines, five of which were reported to be unavailable at one point in the autumn. Former chairman of the Commons Defense Committee Tobias Ellwood urged Defense Secretary Grant Shapps to act urgently and conduct an immediate review. "We can't continue to do this with a surface fleet that's too small and cannot fire on land at range," Ellwood said. Head of the Armed Forces Admiral Sir Tony Radakin also warned of a need to speed up the acquisition processes for weapons including "land attack missile systems" since five years ago, when he was First Sea Lord. He publicly advocated replacing Harpoon anti-ship missiles with a weapon that could be used to attack land targets during the first few months of Boris Johnson's premiership. However, the Harpoon was retired from the Navy last year and its temporary replacement, the Norwegian-made Naval Strike Missile, has only been installed on one vessel so far as part of a trial and has yet to be fired. Eventually, it will be rolled out to 11 frigates and destroyers before a new cruise missile system is expected to be introduced in 2028. Also, Rear Admiral Chris Parry, a former senior naval officer, commented that the lack of a proper surface-to-surface missile had left the Navy exposed. He said: "The Naval Strike Missile is a fudge. It's a sticking plaster to show we have some capability." Houthis ask British and U.S. workers to leave Yemen in the next 30 days After the second set of joint U.K. and U.S. airstrikes against Houthis, to stop the raids on shipping in the Red Sea, a letter to the country's United Nations coordinator was sent by the Houthi-controlled foreign affairs ministry, requesting Western aid workers to leave within 30 days. The correspondence also called on agencies to stop recruiting any workers with dual nationalities from the U.K. and U.S. in the following month. "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Yemen extends its best regards to the office of the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Sanaa, and through them to all offices of humanitarian organizations working in the Republic of Yemen," the letter read, emphasizing the necessity of letting the American and British citizens working there to leave the country within a maximum period of 30 days. "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Yemen takes this opportunity to express appreciation and respect to the office of the United Nations Resident Coordinator," it also included. Defense Secretary Grant Shapps said that the second round of strikes was a "success." He thanked all members of the Armed Forces involved in the operations against Houthi targets via an X post. "Their dedication, professionalism and skill made the operation a success, degrading the capabilities that the Houthis use to threaten global trade and the lives of innocent mariners," he said. The said strikes targeted a Houthi underground storage site and locations associated with the Houthis' missile and air surveillance capabilities, a joint statement from the UK, US, Bahrain, Australia, Canada and the Netherlands said. (Related: U.S., U.K. continue airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen.) Meanwhile, the HMS Diamond reportedly deployed another missile that downed a Houthi drone in the Red Sea, according to an MoD spokesperson, who also confirmed that this is the third incident of this kind with HMS Diamond since December. Head over to WWIII.news to read more stories like this. Sources for this article include: Telegraph.co.uk News.Sky.com BBC.com Public school students in New Jersey asked to create vaccine propaganda campaigns for a chance to win prizes A New Jersey initiative that rewards public school students with gift cards and cash prizes for creating posters and videos promoting vaccines has drawn flaks from critics. They say it is just a thinly veiled attempt to convince young students to create "promotional material on behalf of pharmaceutical interests." Brian Hooker, senior director of science and research for the Children's Health Defense, said teachers are being incentivized to lie while the students are "being incentivized to create a disinformation campaign," with the ultimate goal of marketing the campaign to an innocent younger demographic. The campaign "Protect Me With 3+" is sponsored by the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDH). According to the campaign's guidelines, New Jersey students in grades 5 to 12 "can enter to win great prizes while promoting vaccination." According to the website, winners can receive prizes ranging from $50 to $175 gift card. Meanwhile, teachers whose classes submit the most entries will receive $75 gift card awards. The website also told interested contestants that by getting vaccinated, "you are protecting yourself and your family and friends." It also warned people that not vaccinating a child on time "can make someone else sick, like a friend, baby, adult, grandparent or someone unable to be vaccinated." According to the NJDH, the contest for children was allegedly created to "raise awareness of the importance of vaccination" against one of these vaccine-preventable diseases: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Influenza (flu) Meningococcal ACWY (MenACWY) Tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (Tdap) Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) Aside from the contest for public schools, the NJDH has also been promoting its campaign in universities, where students are invited to create content promoting vaccines with the phrase "Step Up! Vax Up!" The campaign promoted in universities offers a cash prize of $5,000 to the winning entry. Medical experts raise concerns about involving children in promotion of pharmaceutical products These taxpayer-funded contests have raised concerns among medical experts, who warned that having children participate in the promotion and marketing of pharmaceutical products "crosses an ethical red line." Hooker said there is no rational excuse for the solicitation of minors to promote medical products, especially when it involves vaccines that are often linked to various adverse side effects. (Related: VINDICATED: School district agrees to REINSTATE and PAY teachers fired for refusing COVID-19 shots.) He added that experts are concerned because Big Pharma is using schools to do the marketing and advertising for these large pharmaceutical interests. The move was also slammed because it is "using taxpayer dollars to promote their product." Hooker added that many of the winning posters currently being promoted on the contest's website make false claims about vaccines. For example, many of the posters promoted on the website include the claim that getting vaccinated prevents the transmission of Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19). However, this has been proven to be false many times. The winning entry includes a hand-colored poster created by a tenth-grade student. The poster featured a picture of a mask along with the slogan: "Having corona is not a fun persona. Get vaccinated & stay safe." In the past two years, the COVID-19 vaccines have become the center of various controversies. The original COVID-19 vaccines were taken by more than 80 percent of Americans after government officials and Big Pharma colluded and promised that the vaccines could effectively prevent contraction and stop the spread of the coronavirus. However, once it was revealed that the vaccines did not work as initially promised, interest in the subsequent booster shots decreased significantly. The vaccines have also been linked to widespread reports of negative health outcomes. According to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) database, COVID-19 vaccines have been named the primary suspect in more than 1.5 million adverse event reports. The actual numbers could be even higher. Additionally, an FDA-funded study out of Harvard University has revealed that VAERS cases represent fewer than one percent of vaccine adverse events. Big Pharma using children for blatant propaganda In a December press release, Mariekarl Vilceus-Talty, president and CEO of the Partnership for Maternal and Child Health of?Northern New Jersey (PMCH), which partnered with NJDH for the vaccine promotion project, claimed that the goal in creating the incentive-laden contest was to encourage young people to "become active in their own health and that of their community." Vilceus-Talty said the contest aims to use vaccine awareness "to inspire adolescents with an engaging and interactive approach to community health." She added that student participation was crucial to start the conversation about being healthy in their community and with their peers throughout the school day. Hooker warned that the only "participation" these public education students are being engaged in is a taxpayer-subsidized "propaganda" campaign to help market and sell a highly profitable pharmaceutical product in a post-pandemic world. He urged parents to get the school boards involved to help stop the blatant manipulation of innocent children, particularly because students are "too young to make medical decisions for themselves" and advertise for Big Pharma. Watch the video below to learn more about a published peer-reviewed study showing that the COVID-19 vaccine is extremely dangerous. This video is from The New American channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Study: Vaccinated children shed COVID-19 virus up to 3 times LONGER than unvaccinated kids. Big Pharma LIED: Allegedly safe smallpox vaccines are dangerous and even DEADLY. Schools and businesses reinstate MASK MANDATES as CDC, mainstream media push fictional claim that COVID-19 cases are once again on the rise. School vaccine campaigns come under scrutiny in France after 12-year-old boy dies on school floor following HPV shot. Sources include: TheEpochTimes.com InsiderNJ.com Brighteon.com Report: UK military would exhaust capabilities after just 2 of months of war The British military can sustain its full capabilities for only about two months in the event of a conflict with a comparable opponent, according to a House of Commons defense committee report . Both current and former British military leaders described a decade-long hollowing out of the Armed Forces that has led to overall deficiencies in war-fighting resilience. Critical infrastructural gaps noted by the Ministry of Defence include inadequate munitions warehousing and infrastructure, operational medical capacity, and support for armored vehicle equipment. (Article republished from TheNationalPulse.com) Minister for the Armed Forces James Heappey pointed out that while defense cuts were deemed necessary when implemented, it is now urgent to reinvest in areas subject to disinvestment. Heappey further stated that substantial work is needed to regain the wartime readiness last seen during the Cold War era. The report indicates that the British militarys readiness was negatively impacted by the donation of armaments to Ukraine, with one artillery regiment reportedly depleted of guns after assisting in the Ukrainian war effort against Russia. Another concern is the bottleneck in procurement and delivery for replenishment of the NLAW anti-tank systems and 155mm artillery ammunition Britain provided to Ukraine. According to the Ministry of Defense, the British army only has around 75,000 soldiers, about half of what it commanded three decades ago. This triggered talks about utilizing a civilian army during major conflicts. The consequences of this scaled-down force are already visible, with the imminent decommissioning of two naval frigates reportedly due to insufficient staff. Jeremy Quin MP, chair of the committee, concluded that the militarys preparedness for a prolonged war requires increased attention and sustained focus. Read more at: TheNationalPulse.com U.S. weapons bound for Ukraine are ending up in the hands of Mexican cartels Weapons the United States intended to go into the hands of forces in Ukraine are ending up in the possession of Mexican drug cartels and Hamas in the Gaza Strip This is according to law enforcement officials who spoke with Russian state-owned news agency TASS, which reported that these weapons are being discovered in Mexico and the Middle East. "The weapons that are being provided to the Armed Forces of Ukraine have already been found in the possession of Mexican cartels and Hamas," said the unnamed official, who added that mistrust between Washington and Kyiv has been rising steadily since reports of such wayward weapons began appearing. "Western countries have now increased anti-corruption controls related to weapons supplies." It is estimated that up to half a million weapons are smuggled every year from the U.S. to Mexico. This number continues to increase despite strict regulations, leading to spikes in gun-related violence. Mexico demands investigation into why cartels have military-grade American weapons Without necessarily admitting that weapons bound for Kyiv are in Mexico, the Mexican government has begun demanding that American officials urgently launch an investigation into why drug cartels in the country have acquired U.S. military-grade weapons. "The Sedena [Mexican Secretariat of National Defense] has warned the United States about weapons entering Mexico that are for the exclusive use of the U.S. Armed Forces," said Secretary of Foreign Affairs Alicia Barcena. "It is very urgent that an investigation into this be carried out." (Related: Mexican Defense Department seeks probe on how cartels acquired high-grade U.S. weapons.) The Mexican Armed Forces has been finding high-grade weapons such as belt-fed machine guns, rocket launchers and grenades none of which are sold for civilian use in the United States. Last June, the Mexican Army reported that it had seized 221 fully automatic machine guns, 56 grenade launchers and a dozen rocket launchers from drug cartels since late 2018. The Jalisco New Generation Cartel was found in possession of five rocket launchers, while the rival Sinaloa Cartel had four. U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar confirmed that Mexican officials had brought up the issue to him during recent meetings and has pledged that the U.S. will be working with Mexico to resolve it. "We are going to look into it, we are committed to working with Sedena to see what's going on," said Salazar. He has confirmed that around 70 percent of the weapons "that cause violence here in Mexico come from the United States." Mexico has long had a problem with firearms in the U.S. legal for civilian purchase, such as higher caliber semi-automatic rifles, being smuggled into Mexico, where civilians are only allowed to own low-caliber firearms, the sale and ownership of which are strictly regulated. These are not necessarily the problem, but the appearance of more powerful firearms in the hands of cartels has made them outclass most branches of Mexican law enforcement, including those who are usually the first to respond to outbursts of cartel violence. Watch this clip from Fox Business featuring an interview with Rep. James Comer (R-KY) discussing how he is "very concerned" about the possibility of U.S. taxpayer dollars being abused under the guise of providing more military assistance to Ukraine. This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: U.S. supplies Ukraine with new, cheaper long-range bomb that can hit civilian targets in Russian territory. Mexico demands U.S. investigate how American military-grade weapons are being smuggled to drug cartels. Outrage: Biden holds America HOSTAGE while demanding ransom in form of BILLIONS more in "aid" for Ukraine, Israel. After squandering $111B on military aid for Ukraine, Biden administration is asking for yet more funds. Ammo prices to skyrocket due to global gunpowder shortage caused by Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Palestine conflicts. Sources include: GreatGameIndia.com TASS.com Axios.com APNews.com Brighteon.com I was stalked by a cult! How I paid the price for blowing the whistle on Christian cults in Norway The story you are about to read is shocking, yet sadly not surprising. (Article by Peter Imanuelsen republished from RMX.news) This is my story about how I got harassed by a cult and there is possibly a very dark hidden secret here Is my life in danger? Last year, I got involved with several organizations that call themselves Christian churches here in Norway, but I quickly discovered some things happening at these places were not very Christian at all, some very worrying things. Dont get me wrong. I am a Christian, but many places that call themselves churches nowadays do not follow Jesus and are, for want of a better term, cults. And you will not believe what they did to me after I blew the whistle. Everyone who follows me knows that I am here to report the truth and to stand up for freedom, goodness, and kindness. I am not afraid to call out and expose evil when I see it. Over the years, this has come at a great personal cost to me, but I will always stand up for those who dont have a voice in this world. For example, I have been one of the few journalists to have brought international attention to the rape crisis that has been going on in Sweden. I was called all kinds of names by people who didnt like that I exposed it, but I never let that stop me. You can read my article on the truth about the Swedish rape crisis here. So lets start at the very beginning While working on this story, I had the help of insiders giving me information. To protect their identity, I am keeping all my sources anonymous. One would think that a place that calls itself a church should be a safe place. A place to seek God, a place to find support and help with the challenges of life. Sadly, as we have heard about all too often, this position of power is something that can be very destructive when it falls into the wrong hands. As a Christian myself, I attended several churches regularly in my local area. One thing that they did that I thought was very good, at first, was organize youth groups. Places where youngsters could go and hang out, learn about the Bible, and stay out of trouble. Awesome! But the more I learned and the more I got to know about what was happening at these youth gatherings, the more worried I became. You see, at this particular so-called church, they dont have any official pastor for the youth group, but there is a man in his mid-30s who has more or less just assumed a leadership role. We are talking about youth gatherings taking place, where this adult man is hanging around alone with girls and boys as young as 13. He is there long into the night, playing games with the children. Why would an adult man be doing that? It would not be unusual for this man to be alone with the children until as late as 2 or 3 a.m. But it gets more disturbing My sources have told me that this man rarely talks about God or the Bible with the youngsters. Instead, the focus of conversation would often be about worldly and very age-inappropriate topics. For instance, one of my anonymous sources told me that while sitting around a table with teenage girls late at night, this man said that the things men look for in women are big boobs and butts and that women look for big muscles in a man. It might not be such a surprise that this so-called spiritual leader is talking about body parts considering that he is an avid gym fan and has engaged in semi-professional weight lifting. Another time, my source told me that he had been talking about which gyms one should go to, and he gave tips to the youngsters at the youth group about a certain gym where they had massage areas that were strategically positioned so that one could see the women doing squats and that one got chills watching the butts on those women. So, knowing this information, would it be appropriate for this man to invite the youngsters and teenage girls to go with him to the gym at midnight? Because that is exactly what this man did. Several times. And of course, the parents were not there. They did not know where their children were going. They thought that their children were safe in the hands of this spiritual leader in their local church. I spoke with this man directly to find out what was going on here, and he admitted to me that he had struggled with sexual sins in the past, but claimed that God had set him free from it. When I decided to do some more research, things became very clear. Checking his Instagram profile, it turned out that he was following not one, but many accounts that would be considered pornographic in nature, even following an OnlyFans model! Here are the screenshots of who this so-called Christian youth leader is following on Instagram. It is so pornographic that I had to blur almost all the photos. Why is a church leader working with youths following an OnlyFans model? Is it appropriate for a spiritual leader who has access to young girls and boys alone late at night to be talking about these kinds of things and following these kinds of people on social media? I was told by one of my sources that the youngsters there look up to this man as a father and almost idolize him. That is a position of power. I was also told by insiders that the church had received complaints about abuse in the past. Someone had to stand up for the children and warn the church about what was going on because this kind of behavior certainly did not seem appropriate. These worries that I had were then reported to the leaders and elders at the church so that they could take further action. There was not much more I could do. Can you guess what happened? I was thrown out of the church. Very suspicious. Now, it just so happens that there is another church not far away from this one. They are connected and are part of something called Indremisjonen (Inner mission) in Norway. My brother was a member of a youth choir in this church. He played the keyboard. He had seen some things going on there that he thought were a little strange. Some hugs that were a little too intimate, older adults touching underage girls in some strange places. And it was pretty clear that the environment being fostered here was that of a cult. My brother would have some theological disagreements with them, and that was not accepted at all in the church. Everyone had to conform to the pastors. Those who didnt bow down to the pastor were singled out and confronted. I have been told by other insiders who used to go to that church that they do not behave like Christians at all. There is no freedom of thought or speech here, according to what I have heard from my sources. When doing some more research, I found that one of the leaders, a man in his 60s, is also following pornographic content on his Instagram. Now keep in mind, the choir that this man is one of the leaders of is a youth choir consisting mainly of young teenage girls. And you cannot make it up the account he is following seems to be some kind of foot fetish account. Again, I had to blur all the photos because there was so much nudity. The following list. Is this appropriate for a Christian leader working with youths to follow? Is it really appropriate that someone with so much power and influence with young children is doing this, considering the other things that my brother saw and heard? Now, this church has an official place on its website saying whom to contact in case of concerns. That was done. One would think that when concerns like this are sent in, they would at the very least be taken seriously and investigated. So what happened? I was thrown out of this church as well, and so was my brother. Again, very suspicious. But it gets worse. I thought that would be the last I would hear from these churches. But no, like any cult it was not that easy to leave. To my shock, I received a letter informing me that this church had reported me to the police, and not only me, but also my brother, my wife, and my parents. So not only are they going after and harassing me for daring to blow the whistle, but they are also going after my family. This is insane. This is something that only cults do. Of course, the police immediately dropped the case against us because it was meritless and laughable. They came with all kinds of baseless claims against me and my family. For example, they claimed in the police report that they had to protect the people in the church from the extreme views of my brother. What were those extreme views? That he believes in the Bible when it comes to 1 Timothy 2:11. That apparently warranted a police report, according to this church. You cannot report someone to the police merely for having different opinions. And what is even weirder is that my brothers view is actually the same as the official view of the church, so why would they report him for something that they themselves supposedly believe in? They also reported me to the police for posting conspiracy theories online, which isnt true. Im posting nothing but facts. They wrote in their report that they were afraid that I would influence their church members. Again, that is only something a cult does trying to shield their members from different points of view. Perhaps they would begin thinking for themselves. That is very bad for the pastors power over the people. Like I said, the police dropped the case because there wasnt one and I have nothing but good things to say about the police here in Norway. They have been very professional. But I did find out that both of these churches mentioned had been in contact, colluding with each other against me. It has later come to my attention that many of the pastors in the local area have talked among themselves about how to handle the situation, referring to me blowing the whistle. It is also worth mentioning that shortly before all of this madness took place, my brother was playing at a concert with this youth choir. When he came back to his car, someone had either placed or dropped a pouch containing live bullets. What was very interesting is that when I contacted the church leaders, they were completely uninterested in reporting it to the police. Very weird. You can read all about that here. Just to make it clear. Exposing cults can be dangerous for myself, so I will just say it here that I am not in any way suicidal and I have good security. It is not unheard of when it comes to sexual abuse within so-called Christian communities. It has been reported in Norwegian media that Olaug Bollestad, the leader of the Christian Democratic party, has herself been the victim of sexual abuse within Indremisjonen, the very same organization that the churches mentioned in this article are a part of. Back in the 1980s, she was a youth worker at Indremisjonen. She tells of a tall and charismatic man who was highly regarded in her church community. He locked me in and took me around from behind. He put his hand between my legs, groped my breasts, said nothing, just breathed heavily and moaned she revealed. I had to put responsibility not only on the abuser but also those who let him go forward she added. That is very true. Those who know about these kinds of things but still let them happen are equally responsible. This was what one can call in good Norwegian a classic young girl and old pig with power situation. We have a word for it today: #MeToo, said Olaug Bollestad in her book. In other words, this has happened before, to someone who is now one of the most powerful people in Norway. Again, I want to point out a very important thing. Just because some people seek a position of power and abuse that position in the name of Jesus, does not mean that they are Christian. Jesus is awesome, but cults are not. Remember, the religious leaders of their day hated Jesus despite the fact that he did nothing but good and helped people. Now, Im being persecuted by religious leaders for doing good and trying to help people. Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also John 15:20 To summarize, I blew the whistle on inappropriate behavior. They colluded with each other to throw me out. Then they reported me to the police when all I did was want to protect the vulnerable. Is that normal behavior? I will leave that up to you, the reader, to decide. The identities of the so-called churches are being withheld in this article to protect those who are still in their grip. Anyone who feels they have been a victim should contact the police in Norway for help. You are not alone and there is help to get. Victims in Norway can also call the help number for sexual abuse victims here: 800 57 00. If you want to step forward with information on this issue, please send me a message via the contact form on my website: www.petersweden.com Read more at: RMX.news NANCHANG, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- In the courtyard of the Anxin wig factory in Shuijiang Township, east China's Jiangxi Province, over 300 boxes of wig products awaits packaging and shipment to the Netherlands. "These products constitute more than 2,000 sets of wigs, and they are just a small portion of an order from the Netherlands," said Lin Sheng'an, who is in charge of the factory. The annual production capacity of the Anxin wig factory has exceeded 3 million sets, generating an output value surpassing over 40 million yuan (about 5.6 million U.S. dollars) in 2023. Half of the products will be shipped to the overseas markets, while the other half will be sold to domestic wholesalers, who will then sell the products to their international clientele, according to Lin. Established in 2018 in Shuijiang Township, Yichun City, Lin's factory has expanded to three production zones. "We recently secured a 400,000 U.S. dollars order from Walmart on Jan. 10," Lin said. He said his company generally secures global orders during large trade exhibitions, such as the China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair), an international trade platform where the stakes are high in terms of developing a good trading relationship with prospect foreign trade partners. Zeng Defu, owner of a hair accessories factory in Xiaodong Village in the town, said his business primarily runs on e-commerce platforms such as AliExpress. "Though orders vary in size, ranging from tens to hundreds or even thousands of U.S. dollars, yet carries minimal risk," said Zeng, who majored in English at university, a language that allows him to confidently manage international orders. "We've experienced an influx of orders from at least 50 countries before the Spring Festival," Zeng said, adding that his company's annual output has reached more than 5 million yuan. The company employs around 30 villagers, with the opportunity to grow to 50. To expand the wig industry in the town, the local government has rolled out favorable policies, such as the establishment of an industry base and supplying enterprises with electricity, funds, logistics and other resources. Thanks to a series of rural revitalization policies, the wig industry in Shuijiang Township has witnessed rapid growth. So far, there are 93 wig companies scattered within 10 villages in the township. The annual wig production totaled over 30 million sets, with an output value of 250 million yuan. More than 2,000 employees are engaged in this industry. Huang Chao also runs a wig factory in Shuijiang. He said that he started to sell his products on the e-commerce platform in 2018. His products have now reached markets in the United States and Nigeria. "It is unbelievable that wigs produced from the remote mountains can compete at global markets," Huang said. Currently, out of the 93 wig companies in Shuijiang, 15 of them have ventured into cross-border e-commerce, selling wig products worldwide. The overseas sales revenue from these enterprises accounts for more than half of the town's annual wig production value. JAB FAIL: All COVID-19 variants resist mRNA vaccine-induced antibodies, study finds In more bad news for COVID-19 vaccine makers, researchers have found that omicron and all other variants of the COVID-19 virus are resistant to vaccine-induced antibodies and therefore less responsive to the jabs than believed. This is according to a study that was published by the journal Vaccines in which the authors cautioned: Our data reflect the poor durability of vaccine-induced nAb (neutralizing antibody) responses. The neutralizing antibodies they are referring to are made by the body to stop the virus from entering cells and infecting them, which is precisely the mechanism of protection that vaccines should theoretically offer. For the study, researchers from Louisiana State University followed a group of 16 individuals who were not infected with COVID-19 across a span of 420 days, matching their antibodies to those of different variants of COVID-19 viruses at weekly and monthly intervals. They looked at both pre-vaccination and post-vaccination antibodies. In the course of this study, these individuals received three doses of mRNA vaccines for COVID-19 that contained the original Wuhan variant in the form of two primary shots as well as a booster. Although they found that the antibodies they collected three weeks after these individuals received their second and third doses had a strong neutralizing effect against the original variant of the viruses, these antibodies diminished quickly. In fact, just four months after their second dose and six months following the third dose, the levels of neutralizing antibodies in the subjects had dropped back to their pre-vaccination levels. They also found that the other variants of the virus were very resistant to the antibodies that the individuals developed following their second and third shots. This was true even just three weeks after getting the vaccine, which is believed to be the point at which antibodies are the strongest. The researchers were surprised to find that the third dose, which was given within four months of the second dose, reduced the resistance of the virus to the vaccine even though the booster was the same as the two previous shots. The researchers believe this may have occurred because the third dose could have strengthened the vaccine-induced immune response of the body against the portions of the viruss protein that the various strains shared. Study senior author Alistair Ramsay wrote: We also expected that at some point, later variants (e.g., omicron) would differ so significantly from the pandemic strain that the neutralizing antibody activity generated by the original shots and booster would diminish. That is what we saw. Other studies have also shown a link between repeated boosting and a greater risk of COVID-19 infections, and some researchers have cautioned that the IgG4 class switching seen after COVID-19 boosting could place people at a greater risk of infections from other diseases. Vaccines carry a lot of risk for very little protection Unfortunately, not only are these vaccines failing to deliver the protection they should, but they are also causing a host of problems. Scientists from Moderna even admitted in a recent paper that the technology used in their vaccine poses toxicity risks. Some of the negative effects that have been linked to mRNA COVID-19 vaccines include heart inflammation, severe allergic shock and other problems. The vaccines have also been linked to excess mortality, yet many doctors are afraid to speak out because they fear losing their jobs or credentials. Sources for this article include: TheEpochTimes.com MDPI.com TheEpochTimes.com Historic rains and flooding push California fault lines toward the Big One Geophysicists are voicing their concerns about the impact of southern California's recent week-long storm deluge on the Golden State's fragile earthquake fault lines. The trillions of gallons of water that dumped on the southland are putting incredible weight on the San Andreas and other SoCal fault lines, which are massively overdue for the so-called "Big One." "Water is very heavy," writes Michael from End of the American Dream. "If you doubt this, just try lugging a couple of gallons of water around with you for a while." "Now trillions of gallons of rain have poured down on California, and all of that added weight is going to put additional stress on the fault lines in the southern portion of the state." Several years back, a team of geophysicists determined that heavy rainfall and flooding does, in fact, put so much weight on fault lines that sometimes and earthquake ensues. Such a scenario has happened at least three times over the past 2,000 years, they say. The southern section of California's infamous San Andreas fault is particularly susceptible to flood-induced earthquakes. Ancient floods caused by the nearby Colorado River weighted down the land and bam, an earthquake soon followed. Some worry that the same scenario is brewing once again with the latest round of "atmospheric river" discharge, which dumped nearly nonstop rain on southern California for an entire week, and then some. "We found quakes happened about every 100 to 200 years and were correlated with floods," says geophysicist Daniel Brothers, one of the scientists who worked on the above-linked Nature study. "The Colorado River spills, loads the crust, and then there is a rupture." Brothers and his colleagues say they are "very confident" in the existence of flood-induced earthquakes, which historically occurred around a magnitude six. One occurred about 600 years ago, then another 1,100 years ago, then another between 1,200 and 1,900 years ago. "Sediments don't lie," Brothers says. (Related: Some areas of southern California received record levels of rain going back to the beginning of when record-keeping began.) "Big One" will break off parts of California into sea Some of the hardest rain-hit areas of southern California in the recent storm include the Cogswell Dam above Pasadena, Beverly Hills, Culver City and downtown Los Angeles. A weather station at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) experienced "a 1-in-1,000-year rainfall event" that drenched the school and surrounding area with 11.87 inches of rain in just 24 hours. Technically, what UCLA experienced and recorded is a "1,000-year recurrence interval event," according to meteorologist Jacob Feuerstein. The 1-in-1,000-year rainfall event is simply a way of statistically saying that the probability of such an event happening in any given year is one in 1,000. In the first 48 hours of the storm, it was estimated that an astounding 5.6 trillion gallons of rain fell on California and that was just the first portion. Now that the end of the rain event has come, at least for now, the total figure is likely well in the double-digit trillions in terms of the number of gallons of rain that fell on the Golden State. Should the "Big One" strike California in the coming days, scientists warn that large portions of land will break off into the Pacific Ocean almost instantly. And keep in mind that it is not just the San Andreas that is now at risk: there are hundreds, if not thousands, of faults and cracks in the California landscape that could go off at any moment. "It's something that would happen relatively instantaneously," says Cal State Fullerton (CSUF) professor Matt Kirby. What do you think: Is California on the verge of feeling the Big One? Find out more at Collapsifornia.com. Sources for this article include: EndOfTheAmericanDream.com Nature.com NaturalNews.com Cincinnati.com James OKeefe infiltrates illegal alien compound in Tucson by posing as homeless, drunk vagrant He has done it again . Investigative undercover journalist James O'Keefe successfully infiltrated an illegal alien compound in Tucson to expose the non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that are aiding illegal migrants in breaking into the United States without permission. O'Keefe dressed up as a homeless, drunk vagrant to enter the Ramada Inn in Tucson, which was recently converted into an illegal immigration compound called Casa Alitas. Funded in part by Catholic Community Services of Tucson, this secret operation to facilitate illegal migrant entry into America is enriching groups like Las Palmas that are helping refugees who are "lying about sponsors," meaning they are not telling the truth about who is funding and helping them invade the country. With hidden cameras embedded in his disguise, O'Keefe entered the facility and captured on tape police officers admitting that refugees are not telling the truth about who is paying for their stay at the Ramada Inn, which is providing free lodging, breakfast, lunch, hygienic services and Wi-Fi internet for as long as they need before continuing on their way. One of the migrants shared with another undercover journalist working alongside O'Keefe that the NGOs helping illegal migrants "get paid no matter what." The question is: from who? BREAKING: OKeefe Media Group infiltrates SECRET converted illegal immigrant compound CASA ALITAS Ramada Hotel in Tucson. This secret operation is funded by Catholic Community Services of Tucson and enriches groups like, Las Palmas. OKeefe disguised himself as a homeless pic.twitter.com/RTB4ea86az James O'Keefe (@JamesOKeefeIII) February 7, 2024 (Related: Last year, O'Keefe captured footage suggesting that Tucker Carlson was fired from Fox News at the order of Dominion Voting Systems and the pharmaceutical industry.) Illegal gang members flooding America Leftist claims that all the illegals pouring in are just helpless innocents looking for a better life in the "land of the free" were proven false through O'Keefe's investigation, which revealed that obvious gang members are flooding across the border without resistance. Customs and Border Patrol (CPB) agents often recognize or suspect that certain migrants are gang members, but they still allow them to pass through unabated. "They will ask about gang tattoos but Border Patrol still lets those people in," one of the other migrants told an O'Keefe journalist. Ashley St. Clair, who works alongside O'Keefe in his journalistic efforts, was able to speak with a taxi driver while she posed as a local ministry outreach member. The taxi driver told St. Clair that while Catholic Community Services is providing services to illegal migrants, the organization "do[es]n't treat them well." "They scare them," the taxi driver revealed, explaining that he works with the migrant population in the area on a regular basis. O'Keefe himself was also able to approach local police officer Deputy Carter about a bus that arrived while he was at the Ramada Inn. The bus was filled with what appeared to be illegal immigrants, but the police officer would not admit to this. "Sir, I'm not on the bus," the officer told O'Keefe when he asked Deputy Carter about one of several buses filled with migrants that pulled up behind her. O'Keefe later shared the following image to X showing all of the officers he encountered during the investigation: Officers involved in our Ramada coverage. pic.twitter.com/jnKJrseSJI James O'Keefe (@JamesOKeefeIII) February 7, 2024 "Why are our county deputies being used to facilitate movement and hiding illegals?" asked retired Pima County Board of Supervisors (BOD) District 1 official of the Pima County, Ariz., sheriff's office. "Pima County taxpayers deserve an answer!" Another person responded to this that the law enforcement officers in question are likely "being paid off to look the other way." "Dirty stuff going on in those places," the X user added. More related news about America's southern border crisis can be found at InvasionUSA.news. Sources for this article include: Twitter.com NaturalNews.com Inventor of lipid nanoparticles used in mRNA COVID-19 injections KNEW they wouldnt stay in the arm The inventor of the lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) used in the messenger RNA Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccines was aware that they won't stay in the arm The Daily Expose elaborated on this claim, citing an October 2022 lecture by Dr. Pieter Cullis delivered at the University of Manitoba in Canada. In the lecture, Cullis was asked if his LNP delivery system is able to target specific tissues or restrict which tissues it stays in. "That's going to be tricky," he responded. "People have been trying to target these lipids, or any nanomedicine, without any success over 40 years of trying." According to the Expose, Cullis "is widely credited with inventing the LNP delivery system that ensures the mRNA doesn't degrade before it reaches [the] cells. Without the LNPs, the mRNA would get destroyed long before it got anywhere near a cell and so is critical for the vaccines to "work.'" The Canadian biochemist is also the founder of British Columbia-based Acuitas Therapeutics, which develops LNPs for vaccines including the mRNA COVID-19 injection from Pfizer and BioNTech. "They've known for over 40 years that the LNPs wouldn't stay in your arm. In fact, they didn't ever want them to. They wanted the 'vaccine' to travel all [around] your body, so that some of it would find its way to your lymph nodes. There, the dendritic cells were more likely to translate the mRNA as intended," wrote the Naked Emperor on Substack. "But they kept this quiet from you, because would you really go and get injected if you were told that this new technology would travel all round your body where it would be taken up by all types of cells including spleen, liver, and ovary cells which would then be instructed to produce a spike protein created in a lab somewhere, causing who knows what side effects because the trials were cancelled early because it just wasn't fair that the placebo group hadnt been given mRNA?" (Related: Doug Billings asks: Are mRNA lipid nanoparticle vaccines truly safe? Brighteon.TV.) BioNTech actually wanted the LNPs to travel throughout the body The Naked Emperor also disclosed that last year, the Mainz, Germany-based BioNTech wanted the mRNA contained inside the LNPs to travel around the body to the lymph nodes. French politician Virginie Joron tweeted back in January 2023 several pictures from a presentation titled "The Future of RNA-Based Technology." The presentation featured Ozlem Tureci, BioNTech's co-founder and chief medical officer. Joron also captured a snippet of Tureci's presentation, with a slide reading "The Bodyhack Bringing mRNA to the right cells at the right places." "The image clearly shows that the cells BioNTech were targeting were dendritic cells in the lymph nodes," said the Naked Emperor, who also quoted a report from Robert Kogon of the Brownstone Institute and the book "The Vaccine" written by Tureci, her husband and BioNTech CEO Ugur Sahin and journalist Joe Miller to explain why BioNTech's platform specifically targets the lymph nodes. Page 98 of the book stated: "What [Sahin] learned was that the location to which a vaccine delivers its 'wanted poster' really mattered. The reason for this, the couple's team in Mainz later realized, was that not all dendritic cells were created equal. The ones that resided in lymph nodes of which the spleen is the largest were particularly adept at capturing mRNA and making sure the instructions it carried were acted upon." Page 104 of the same book outlined the determination of Sahin and Tureci to get their mRNA into the lymph nodes, that they had an earlier mRNA construct "injected directly into the patient's lymph nodes in the groin." Ultimately, the couple explained that the mRNA needed to be packaged inside LNPs so that they can be widely distributed around the body and eventually reach the lymph nodes. "Not only was it known that the mRNA wouldn't stay in the arm, they actually wanted it to go around your body," the Naked Emperor concluded. "We were all told the 'stay in your arm' lie to reduce vaccine hesitancy and increase Big Pharma profits." Watch this video of Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo calling for a halt to the mRNA vaccines. This video is from Flyover Conservatives channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: 'Tragic: CDC adds original COVID mRNA vaccine to childhood schedule despite known harms. Lawfare with Tom Renz: The fight against mRNA vaccine is not yet over Brighteon.TV. Top 7 reasons mRNA COVID JABS are much more DEADLY than any other vaccine ever created. Sources include: Expose-News.com NakedEmperor.Substack.com Brighteon.com Ray McGovern: NEOCONS and WARMONGERS in Biden admin are pushing U.S. into war with Iran The neoconservatives and warmongers in the Biden administration want America to engage in a war against Iran , according to former Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) analyst Ray McGovern. He shared this view during an appearance on the "Health Ranger Report" with the Health Ranger Mike Adams. The founder of Natural News and Brighteon.com began the program by mentioning that the U.S. wants to use Israel as a proxy to wage war on Iran, which was similar to how Ukraine was utilized as a proxy against Russia. The Health Ranger also noted that Sens. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and John Cornyn (R-TX) are saying they can't wait to bomb Iran. Even former Fox News host Tucker Carlson denounced the lawmakers as "lunatics" for wanting to retaliate against Tehran. (Related: Boyle: Israel is a PROXY of the U.S. to control the Middle East and secure energy supplies.) According to Adams, Graham is still living in the 1980s as he isn't aware of Iran possessing advanced ballistic missiles and possibly hypersonic missiles from Russia. The entire U.S. Navy is well within the range of these weapons, the Health Ranger added. McGovern remarked that while the Biden regime is divided on the issue of war with Iran, the neoconservatives in the administration are desperate to get America into an open fight with Tehran on behalf of Tel Aviv. Victoria Nuland and Antony Blinken of the Department of State, as well as White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, are goading Washington into war. "What's happening here is that there's a battle royale going on in Washington between those who really want to stick it to Iran and to blame every little Houthi or any other terrorist attack on Iranian-backed groups and go after Iran," McGovern said. Adams recalled that following the Oct. 7 terror attack in Israel, the Wall Street Journal came out with a story about Hamas fighters being trained in Iran. McGovern dubbed this story as rubbish, adding that people have learned that Tehran, the Lebanon-based Hezbollah or anybody else knew about the attack in Israel before it was conducted. U.S. making up story that Iran is working on a nuclear weapon The erstwhile CIA analyst mentioned that Iran has ballistic missiles capable of destroying major cities in Israel. However, Tel Aviv has a deterrent as well in the form of a nuclear weapon something Tehran does not have. "The latest intelligence estimate is consistent with the one from 2007, saying Iran is not working on a nuclear weapon right now. They have nuclear material, but not a weapon," said McGovern. He also disclosed an estimate from an intelligence official stating that Iran stopped working on a nuclear warhead in 2002 and had not resumed ever since. "So what do we have? We have a standoff here. Hopefully, the deterrent aspect will work its way so that the crazies in Washington will not start a war in Iran and have Israel destroyed in the process because that is precisely what would happen." According to McGovern, the warmongering neoconservatives in the Biden administration "are getting to the point where [they] would really like to bloody Iran and they make up this fiction that Iran is working on a nuclear weapon." He continued that intelligence agencies from the 2000s have "expressed unanimously and confidently" that Tehran isn't working on a nuclear weapon. The former CIA analyst recounted how former President George W. Bush even complained about and disagreed with the estimate. The younger Bush's complaint stemmed from the fact that he was unable to make war against a country the intelligence community said had no active nuclear weapons program. "They wanted to do this war as they went out into the sunset in 2008, and leave the subsequent administration to mop up and to survive to the degree it could." Follow WWIII.news for more stories about the Israel-Hamas conflict and the rising tension in the Middle East. Watch the full conversation between Ray McGovern and the Health Ranger Mike Adams below. This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Iran just proved it can hit Israel with Kheibar Shekan ballistic missiles. Repeated attacks by Iranian-backed militants on U.S. troops in the Middle East increase tension between Washington and Tehran. Defense officials warn: Iran could use Israel-Palestine chaos as an opportunity to attack American forces all over the Middle East. Sources include: Brighteon.com Mediaite.com WSJ.com Michael Yon and the Health Ranger discuss ongoing DEPOPULATION initiatives Veteran war correspondent Michael Yon recently joined the Health Ranger Mike Adams on the "Health Ranger Report" to discuss the ongoing global depopulation initiative being pushed by the globalists. Adams began by saying that the globalists are trying to achieve rapid depopulation of the world, particularly the Western population, through the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccines. It's not just about infertility, he remarked, but also about increased deaths, myocarditis, heart attacks and others. However, he noted that the COVID-19 injection didn't kill as many people as the globalists had hoped. "The globalists want to eliminate six or seven billion people. The vaccine clearly didn't do that at least not the current one," he told Yon. Meanwhile, the independent journalist known for his coverage of the migrant invasion mentioned a theory by Dr. Bret Weinstein. According to the latter, the third COVID-19 injection in the form of a "booster" is the actual main weapon that will boost the deaths of many. Yon continued that people have no idea how seriously deadly the COVID-19 injections are. He also mentioned that they don't know what is going to happen next, especially when another pathogen or bioweapon is released. Yon then proceeded to name-drop the globalists behind this depopulation initiative. Globalists like Bill Gates and Soros are among the people who want to make money and obtain power at the expense of humanity. The Microsoft co-founder and technocrat wants to control both vaccines and the food supply, and also wants to depopulate the Earth. Meanwhile, the Hungarian billionaire wants open borders to undermine the sovereignty of nations. "So there are different people who want different things, and some of them overlap," Yon told Adams. "There are other people that just want to be part of the club [in] Davos." Globalists now resorting to FAMINE and WAR According to Adams, the globalists have already tried pandemics the most recent one being COVID-19. Now, they are working on famine and war the latter in the form of the conflict in Ukraine. The Health Ranger told Yon that he had come to realize why the West wants war with Russia. Young men in countries such as the U.S., U.K. and Canada will be thrown at Russia's defensive lines, with their governments fully aware that Russian troops will reliably eliminate them. "This is a depopulation method, while the migrants are ready to replace them. You want to get rid of five million Americans? Well, just declare war or start a war; provoke a war; have a false-flag; have a draft [and] send a couple million young men over to Russia. Russia will get rid of them because of their defensive lines. I mean, isn't that another major historical method of depopulation?" (Related: Health Ranger Report: Michael Yon exposes Bidens simultaneous creation of migrant cities and depopulation of Americans.) The veteran combat correspondent and author agreed with the Health Ranger. He also mentioned that there are different layers regarding this issue, one of which is keeping Russia separate from Germany. "We've tried for generations to keep Russia separate from Germany. Russia needs the warm water ports, and Germany needs the energy. And so it's in our best interest to keep them fighting and keep them separated," said Yon. "There are more layers to this cake than meets the eye, and all of them play different parts in different roles." Adams expressed surprise upon hearing the news of the U.K. considering a draft in a potential conflict with Russia. Britain only has one aircraft carrier that's barely working, about 50 remaining "museum" tanks and one battalion of soldiers who know what they are doing. He ultimately remarked that the military forces of the U.K. and Germany, both members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), are a joke. In contrast, Russia currently has the strongest military in the world. Follow PopulationControl.news for more news about the depopulation plan of the globalists. Watch the full conversation between Michael Yon and the Health Ranger Mike Adams below. This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: The global depopulation agenda is more organized and well-funded than ever before in world history. UN agencies have been working for decades to achieve GLOBAL DEPOPULATION. DEPOPULATION being accelerated to catch up with rapid AI advancements that will replace humans. Sources include: Brighteon.com MichaelYon.com Moderna flags viral clip of Megyn Kelly discussing the vaccine injuries she suffered due to COVID-19 injections Media personality Megyn Kelly is in the crosshairs of Big Pharma firm Moderna after she disclosed vaccine damage caused by the company's mRNA Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine. Investigative journalist Lee Fang disclosed this in a report on his Substack, noting that Kelly and other public figures like comedian Russell Brand, former New York Times journalist Alex Berenson and renowned professor Dr. Jay Bhattacharya were targeted by Moderna's "misinformation reporting system." The issue arose from a September 2023 episode of "The Megyn Kelly Show" that had journalist David Zweig as a guest. She told him about her experience getting a COVID-19 booster essentially a third dose of the injection. "I do regret getting the vaccine, even though I'm a 52-year-old woman, because I don't think I needed it. I think I would have been fine," Kelly said at the time. She contracted COVID-19 "many times" despite the third dose, and also developed a secondary health concern that arose from the injection. "For the first time, I tested positive for an autoimmune issue at my annual physical," the former Fox News host recounted. She ended up consulting with a top rheumatologist in New York City, who agreed with her suspicions. "I said, 'Do you think this could have to do with the fact that I got the damn booster and then got COVID-19 within three weeks?' And she said, 'Yes.' I wasn't the only one she'd seen with it." This clip of Kelly disclosing the vaccine injuries she suffered due to COVID-19 injections went viral on social media. It also led many in the press to write about it. The clip eventually reached the executives at the Cambridge, Massachusetts-based drug firm. Reports suggest the vaccine manufacturers flagged her remarks as cause for concern amid growing hesitancy around the mRNA injection. (Related: Vaccine advisers outraged as Moderna, government scientists CONCEALED key data about COVID boosters.) Moderna raises alert about Kelly's remarks According to Fang, Moderna flagged Kelly's clip about her autoimmune condition internally. It warned that the podcast host's comments could "discourage people who are on the fence about getting vaccinated." "In its alert about Kelly, the company noted that her comments added to the growing concern around autoimmune disorders and COVID-19 vaccinations. The Moderna misinformation email proceeded to offer data that appeared to reaffirm, rather than debunk, Kelly's assertions." Fang continued that the email concluded with a message about a report by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The said report highlighted a link between COVID-19 vaccination and inflammatory and autoimmune skin diseases. While Moderna did not dispute the NIH report's findings, it noted that the paper "is in rotation in anti-vaccine spaces online." In a later episode of "The Megyn Kelly Show" that had the Intercept co-founder Glenn Greenwald as guest, Kelly discussed Big Pharma's surveillance of COVID-19 criticisms including hers and the importance of independent media. "Fang has revealed that Moderna was very, very upset [about] things that I said on this show," she commented. "I got targeted by Moderna, who is very worried that this would add to the growing concern around autoimmune disorders following COVID-19 vaccinations. One can't help but notice the irony of how Moderna allegedly handled the situation, Kelly said, adding: "They're admitting internally that it's a problem, but they're upset that I am talking about it because they don't want it discussed. And the mainstream media outlets were only too happy to comply." Watch Megyn Kelly react to the news that Moderna tried to suppress her comments about the vaccine damage she suffered from the COVID-19 injection below. This video is from Daily videos on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Heads of vaccine makers Moderna, BioNTech included in list of COVID-19 billionaires. Australian Senate grills Pfizer, Moderna reps about covid "vaccine" genocide. Moderna CEO Stephane Bancel admits company made 100K COVID-19 vaccine doses in 2019 before the pandemic even started. RIGGED: Two high-level FDA officials who approved Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine are now working for Moderna to develop new mRNA "vaccines." SCIENCE FRAUD: Pfizer's COVID jab "placebo" control group was given MODERNA "vaccine" instead, preprint confirms. Sources include: MegynKelly.com Brighteon.com Ohio Department of Health: People who recently traveled through northern Kentucky airport may have been exposed to measles The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) has warned recent passengers at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) in Boone County, northern Kentucky, that they may have been exposed to measles Officials particularly mentioned those who had been at CVG's Terminal A on Jan. 27 between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. and on Jan. 29 between 8:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. The ODH has warned travelers to be aware of the signs and symptoms of measles, which usually appear seven to 14 days after initial exposure and include fever, cough, runny nose, watery red eyes and then followed by a spreading rash. The ODH claims that travelers who have been vaccinated with the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine are very unlikely to get sick. (Related: Measles VACCINE linked to 127 deaths in last 15 years; only two deaths linked to humans who contracted measles naturally in that same period.) "If you begin to experience symptoms, you should stay inside your home and away from anyone else," said the ODH. "You or someone in your family should contact your doctor to inform them that you believe you may have been exposed so they can take precautionary measures before your appointment for a checkup and consult." The ODH associated the exposure to a measles case reported in Montgomery County, Ohio, where the last confirmed measles case prior to this one occurred in 2005. Measles outbreak continues in the U.S., other parts of the world Measles outbreaks continue to rock the United States. On Jan. 22, Philadelphia Department of Public Health Communications Director James Garrow reported that over the last month, there had been at least nine confirmed measles cases after a person contracted the highly contagious viral infection outside the U.S. and exposed a parent and a child at a children's hospital. That exposure then led to a Philadelphia daycare outbreak that infected at least five children. On Jan. 18, the Georgia Department of Public Health confirmed a single case of measles in an unvaccinated resident of the metro Atlanta area who was exposed to measles while traveling out of the country. On Jan. 25, a CDC Clinician Outreach and Communication Activity alert reported that the CDC was notified of 23 confirmed cases of measles in the U.S., including direct importations of measles by international travelers and two outbreaks with more than five cases each among children and adolescents who were mostly among those who had not received an MMR vaccine or MMRV vaccine that included protection from chickenpox. On Feb. 6, ABC7 reported that California has two new confirmed measles cases, while Maryland and Ohio each have one new confirmed case. Meanwhile, there have been 216 confirmed cases and 103 probable cases since October 2023 in West Midlands alone. West Midlands is one of the nine official regions of England. "International travel, coupled with declining global vaccination rates, is probably behind this spate of cases," said health experts. Visit Outbreak.news for more stories about disease outbreaks in the United States. Watch this new broadcast from WCPO 9 warning about the possible measles exposure at CVG Airport. This video is from the Daily Videos channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Illegal immigrants in El Paso bringing DISEASES like scabies, measles, bed bugs and COVID-19 with them. UN warns about "high risk of biological hazards" after warring party in Sudan captures biolab storing vaccines for measles, cholera. Measles outbreak traced back to VACCINATED woman who spread the disease. Measles outbreak likely caused by vaccinated children, science shows. Measles Police State: Parents who do not vaccinate their children should go to jail. Sources include: TheHill.com Phila.gov DPH.Georgia.gov Emergency.CDC.gov ABC7Chicago.com Gov.UK Brighteon.com Wild animals, ranging from snakes to scorpions, geckos, and frogs have been reported recently to be hiding inside the luggage of tourists going back to the United Kingdom and Ireland. The stowaway animals came from travel destinations, including Kenya, that the tourists visited. This surprising wildlife getaway was reportedly revealed by a local zoo official back in Ireland. The latest case of these incidents involved a venomous scorpion that spent almost 12 days in the bedroom of a female tourist who recently returned home to the town of Wicklow in Ireland. It was found that the predatory arachnid hid inside the tourist's bag, which she used as luggage while traveling back to her country from Kenya. The animal was found on the floor and underneath the bag while unpacking it. Scorpion Found Inside Bag During a radio appearance in Ireland recently, James Hennessey from the National Reptile Zoo, said that the traveler and her family informed the zoo for help after they realized that their venomous guest unknowingly hitchhiked from Kenya two weeks ago. The family called Hennessey after the scorpion got away from the bag and disappeared below the bed. Following the incident, Hennessey wrote on social media that the scorpion has been kept in the zoo's venomous unit. The zoo official also told the local radio network that such incidents are not common but they are not unusual. He added that snakes, geckos, and frogs were also recorded before as hitchhikers to tourists going back home. These cases have been reported as purely accidental and were not considered wildlife trafficking. Also Read: Airport X-Ray Finds 109 Live Animals in Luggage; Authorities Detains Two Passengers Hitchhiking Animals Aside from Ireland and the UK, other locations in the world recorded several instances of animals, including pet cats and dogs, sneaking inside bags or luggage. In 2023, it was reported that a couple returned to Guernsey after a holiday in Madeira, Portugal. Upon their arrival, they discovered a small lizard that managed to sneak in their suitcase. Guernsey is one of the Channel Islands in the English Channel, located between France and the UK. The duo then alerted local wildlife authorities and the reptile was taken to an animal shelter. In 2022, a ginger cat was found inside a suitcase at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. The feline was found after a typical X-ray procedure for checked-in baggage revealed the hitchhiking animal. The traveler who owned the bag was reportedly shocked that the cat snuck into the luggage. Not all hitchhiking animals are accidental, as mentioned earlier. In recent years, there have been multiple cases of wildlife trafficking, with suspected individuals involved being arrested at airports. Some animals in their bag are even alive but have been found by authorities to be in poor condition. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) considers wildlife trafficking as a global problem. Related Article: Wildlife Trafficking: 130 Poisonous Frogs Found Inside Luggage of Brazilian Woman at Colombia Airport Weather experts warned that a dramatic return of La Nina is possible before this year's Atlantic Hurricane Season. The National Weather Service has issued a La Nina watch, noting that it could replace the El Nino phenomenon before the end of the summer season. Effects For Impending Hurricane Season Authorities said that it could have implications for the impending Atlantic hurricane season and beyond. They said that a transition from El Nino to El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO-neutral) is likely by April to June 2024, with 79% chance. Due to this, there is an increasing odds of the development of La Nina in June to August 2024, with 55% chance. During January, above-average sea surface temperatures (SST) continued across most of the equatorial Pacific Ocean. Meteorologists explained that SST anomalies weakened slightly in the eastern and east-central Pacific, as indicated by the weekly Nino index values. However, changes were more pronounced below the surface of the equatorial Pacific Ocean, with area-averaged subsurface temperature anomalies returning to near zero. Weather forecasts noted that although above-average temperatures persisted in the upper 100 meters of the equatorial Pacific, below-average temperatures were widespread at greater depths. Atmospheric anomalies across the tropical Pacific also weakened during January. The low-level winds were seen to be near average over the equatorial Pacific, while upper-level wind anomalies were easterly over the east-central Pacific. On the other hand, convection remained slightly enhanced near the Date Line and was close to average around Indonesia. Collectively, the coupled ocean-atmosphere system reflected a weakening El Nino phenomenon. The most recent plume indicated a transition to ENSO-neutral during spring 2024, with La Nina potentially developing during summer 2024. Even though weather forecasts made through the spring season tend to be less reliable, there is a historical tendency for La Nina to follow strong El Nino events. The forecast team is in agreement with the latest model guidance, with some uncertainty around the timing of transitions to ENSO-neutral and, following that, La Nina. Officials noted that even as the current El Nino weakens, impacts on the United States could persist through April 2024. They said that the timing of La Nina's arrival could coincide with the peak of the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season. Further, a return to La Nina conditions quickly over the summer could result in an active tropical season. Meteorologists, however, explained that if it is slower to develop, the tropics may not be quite as active during the 2024 hurricane season. If La Nina really does happen in that period, it may also have a heavy hand in the weather forecast for the United States next winter. It will generally result in a dry and mild winter in the South, a colder winter in the Northeast and frequent storms in the Northwest. Weather experts, however, said that it is still too early to make the call on what next winter will bring to US residents. Read Also: BoM Announces End of La Nina in the Tropical Pacific, La Nina Watch Applies to Australia as Rainfall Still Expected Stronger Trade Winds The National Ocean Service said that La Nina means Little Girl in Spanish. La Nina is also sometimes called El Viejo, anti-El Nino, or simply "a cold event." La Nina has the opposite effect of El Nino. During La Nina events, trade winds are even stronger than usual, pushing more warm water toward Asia. Off the west coast of the Americas, upwelling increases, bringing cold, nutrient-rich water to the surface. These cold waters in the Pacific push the jet stream northward. This condition tends to lead to drought in the southern US and heavy rains and flooding in the Pacific Northwest and Canada. During a La Nina year, winter temperatures are warmer than normal in the South and cooler than normal in the North. Related Article: How Will the Damp La Nina Season Affect the Scorching American West? JUBA, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- The African Development Bank (AfDB) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) have committed to deepening their collaboration for displaced people and host communities in South Sudan. The UNHCR's Assistant High Commissioner for Operations, Raouf Mazou, and the AfDB's Vice President for Regional Development, Integration, and Business Delivery, Marie-Laure Akin-Olugbade, who concluded a joint visit to South Sudan this week, highlighted investments in refugee and returnee areas and the local communities hosting them, as well as the crucial role of partnerships between humanitarian and development actors. "South Sudan has generously kept its border open to receive people fleeing the war in Sudan, but they can't do it alone. More humanitarian and development support is needed to deliver life-saving assistance and enable conflict-affected communities to get back on their feet and rebuild their lives," Mazou said in a joint statement issued in Juba, the capital of South Sudan. More than half a million people have arrived in South Sudan since the start of the war in Sudan on April 15, 2023, most of them South Sudanese who had been in Sudan for decades, according to the UNHCR. It said many people are heading back to villages that barely have any services, where there is no humanitarian assistance available. The UNHCR said the Sudanese refugees are being relocated to refugee settlements where resources were already overstretched. Akin-Olugbade said they are committed to responding to the biggest development challenges facing the African continent, including preventing and addressing forced displacement. "Our collaboration and partnership with the UNHCR is an important and critical way to advance resilience and durable solutions for refugees, IDPs (internally displaced persons), returnees, and host communities in South Sudan," she added. The delegation visited a refugee camp and transit center hosting arrivals from Sudan, allowing them an opportunity to hear from affected people. In Juba, they met with high-level government officials, who welcomed the partnership and collaboration addressing the pressing needs in the country. The Aral Sea was once one of the world's largest lakes, but due to human interference and climate change, it has shrunk to less than a quarter of its previous size. In the northern area of Uzbekistan, near the town of Muynak, the Aral Sea's slow disappearance due to climate change is not only transforming the environment but also irreparably impacting the lives of its population. Impact of Aral Sea's Deterioration As the surrounding environment deteriorates and water becomes scarcer, residents are compelled to travel further in pursuit of this critical resource. A major decline in fish species, violent storms, and health problems caused by airborne contaminants are just a few of the repercussions that the residents of the Aral Sea basin are now experiencing on a daily basis.' Bayniyazova, 50, has spent the majority of her life near Muynak, tending the land. Farming was often challenging, but it was generally consistent and productive. Even as the world around them changed due to the collapse of the Soviet Union, the family's farmland continued to produce crops, with water flowing steadily through canals from the Aral and nearby rivers. Much of its early downfall was caused by faulty human engineering and agricultural ventures, which are currently being compounded by global climate change. Summers are hotter and longer, whereas winters are shorter and extremely cold. Experts and people like Bayniyazova say water is becoming increasingly scarce, with salt levels too high for plants to thrive. "Everyone goes further in search of water. Without water, there's no life," said Bayniyazova. Read Also: Great Salt Lake Continues to Shrink to Alarmingly Low Levels Due to Drought Most Staggering Disaster of The 20th Century The Aral Sea's deterioration began during the Soviet era, with significant water diversions for agricultural purposes. In the 1960s, the Soviet Union launched a massive water diversion project in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. The desert was converted into cotton and other agricultural farms using the region's two major rivers, which were fed by snowmelt and precipitation in distant mountains. Before the project, the Syr Darya and Amu Darya rivers flowed down from the mountains, cutting northwest through the Kyzylkum Desert and eventually pooling at the basin's lowest point. The lake they created, the Aral Sea, was once the fourth largest in the world. By the 1960s, it had shrunk by half, and those crops prospered. By 1987, the Aral had receded to the point where it separated into two bodies of water: the northern and southern seas in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. Experts and international organizations have identified this tragedy as one of the most major man-made environmental disasters, drastically affecting not just the topography but also the entire fabric of local populations and economies. The United Nations Development Program describes the devastation of the Aral Sea as "the most staggering disaster of the twentieth century," citing it as the cause of soil degradation and desertification, drinking water shortages, starvation, and deteriorating health conditions. Despite restoration attempts, such as Kazakhstan's successful Kokaral Dam, the Aral Sea's future is bleak, especially on the Uzbekistan side, where interventions have been limited. The sea, which formerly supported a thriving fishing economy and regulated the climate, has now abandoned its beaches for the desert, raising concerns about the viability of human life in the region. Related Article: World's Fourth-Largest Lake Nearly Dried Up Sorry, something doesn't look right. Something seems unusual about your device or browser. Please contact support. Chinese Premier Li Qiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, inspects the Ministry of Emergency Management on Feb. 9, 2024. Li Qiang on Friday emphasized that appropriate measures are in place to ensure the sound operations of the country's transportation network and key sectors during the upcoming Spring Festival holiday. (Xinhua/Shen Hong) BEIJING, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Friday emphasized that appropriate measures are in place to ensure the sound operations of the country's transportation network and key sectors during the upcoming Spring Festival holiday. Li, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the statement during an inspection tour of the Ministry of Emergency Management. Efforts must focus on monitoring and coordinating transport capacity while coping with the changing weather conditions such as blizzards and cold waves that have impacted travelers in some regions, the premier said. While at the ministry, the Premier also virtually inspected key industries, particularly those involved with the use of hazardous chemicals. Li urged them to ensure that work safety measures were in order to avoid any major accidents from occurring during the holiday. To ensure safety, he urged on-site management of festival activities, tourist attractions as well as crowded places. Having learned about the national emergency management system's holiday operation situation, he called on all localities and departments to strictly implement the holiday duty system, refine and optimize the contingency plans, and activate instant response, dispatch and rescue in case of an emergency. The Spring Festival holiday, which is a time for family reunions across the country, runs from Feb. 10 to 17 this year. Chinese Premier Li Qiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, inspects the Ministry of Emergency Management on Feb. 9, 2024. Li Qiang on Friday emphasized that appropriate measures are in place to ensure the sound operations of the country's transportation network and key sectors during the upcoming Spring Festival holiday. (Xinhua/Shen Hong) Sharjah and Malaysia held a business roundtable to strengthen the existing ties of culture and trade, and to discuss the current market dynamics, strategic approaches, inherent advantages, and mutual investment opportunities, a report said. The Sharjah-Malaysia Business Roundtable was organised by The Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah), in collaboration with the Consulate of Malaysia and the Malaysian Business Council, at the House of Wisdom, convening chairpersons and CEOs of influential entities in Sharjah, diplomats, Malaysian delegates, and representatives, Emirates News Agency, WAM, said. Goals were announced at the event to double the number of Malaysian businesses in the emirate while reinforcing the commitment to building mutually beneficial relationships and exploring avenues for collaboration and growth. Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), opened the days proceedings with a keynote address, followed by a speech by Mohd Fadly Amri Aliaman, Consul-General of Malaysia to Dubai. In his address, the CEO of Shurooq expressed the importance of roundtable discussions in bringing together leaders from key institutions, authorities, and industries in Sharjah and Malaysia. Al Qaseer noted that such gatherings are built upon existing relations and explore avenues to strengthen them through additional partnerships and investments. The UAE stands as the primary trade partner for Malaysia. In 2023 alone, trade volumes between Sharjah and Malaysia reached $94.1 million. Globally, the UAE is Malaysia's 17th trade partner globally, representing 32% of Malaysia's trade with Arab countries. The roundtable activities also comprised a panel discussion. You got to spin to win! Join us in Guangxi, South China for the entertaining spinning top contests. Find out why the local Yao ethnic group enjoy this sport in the buildup to Chinese New Year and believe that brings about good fortune! Produced by Xinhua Global Service Sunny Leone: I fell in love with my husband watching him play music Mumbai, Feb 7 It was in 2011 when Sunny Leone married her husband and musician Daniel Weber, and the two have been setting relationship goals ever since. The actress revealed that she fell in love with him when she saw him play music. She added: It was so hot, so sexy, he was covered in tattoos. I mean, what girl doesn't like that! After six years of marriage, in 2017, they adopted daughter Nisha from Latur in Maharashtra, and then welcomed their sons via surrogacy in 2018. When not working, Sunny, who has just opened a restaurant, said that shes around her family. I love my life and I love what I do I also love being around my children. The days that I don't feel like working are not usually an option. If I need to work I need to work and those days when I have offs I really do enjoy my time at home, family and spending time with my kids, said the actress, who made her Bollywood debut with Jism 2 in 2012. The actress, whose real name is Karenjit Kaur Vohra, has over a decade-long journey in Indian cinema, where she has worked in films such as Ragini MMS 2, Ek Paheli Leela, Mastizaade and Kennedy. Apart from her work, Sunny is also loved for her affable nature towards her fans. Talking about the same, Sunny said: Most fans just need that one minute of your time or 30 seconds sometime. They just want a selfie. So, I try to be as nice as I can even if I am tired or having a bad day but I also do believe in being myself and if this does not make me happy anymore, then maybe I should do something different. But that is not the case. I love my job and I love what I do and I am genuinely very happy. I have a lot of people around me to keep pulling me down to earth if I seem like I am on a different planet," she concluded. (IANS - Posted on 07 February 2024) Sunny Leone: I fell in love with my husband watching him play music Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Jennifer Coolidge is 'jealous' of 'The White Lotus' Season 3 cast Los Angeles, Feb 9 Actress Jennifer Coolidge said that she is jealous of the cast of the third season of The White Lotus, of which she is not a part. Im jealous of everyone thats going. I just want to stress Im not a good sport about it, but theres nothing I can do. When they kill you, you have to accept it. Because it means theyre not calling for your costume sizes or anything, Coolidge said. Its over! I have to get another thing. I have to make another thing happen, I guess. She added: But am I sad? I just want to say in all honesty, Im very sad Im not in it. The ending of Season Two saw Coolidges character, Tanya McQuoid, seemingly take a tragic fall off the side of a boat off the shore of Sicily, hitting her head and falling into the ocean. I had a blast, she said of her time on the show. I think (Season 3) is going to be good. Theres going to be all sorts of good stuff in it, probably great sex stuff. You know how Mike White writes its never, never a dull moment. I think hes going to slay with this one. HBO said the Mike White-created show will be filmed in three cities throughout Thailand Koh Samui, Phuket and Bangkok and that cast members include Carrie Coon, Parker Posey and Patrick Schwarzenegger, plus a familiar face from Season One, Natasha Rothwell. I think thats a great place for another White Lotus, Coolidge said of Thailand. Its never a dull moment with (White). I promise everyone it will be riveting, whatever he writes. (IANS - Posted on 09 February 2024) Jennifer Coolidge is 'jealous' of 'The White Lotus' Season 3 cast Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Adarsh Gourav: Starting work on project envisioned by legend like Ridley Scott is very exciting Mumbai, Feb 9 Acclaimed actor Adarsh Gourav is in Thailand, has commenced shooting for the highly anticipated TV series 'Aliens'. He feels excited to work on a project envisioned and backed by filmmaker Ridley Scott. Adarsh told IANS: Starting work on a project envisioned and backed by the legend like Ridley Scott is very exciting. Theres a palpable energy amongst the team here and we are all looking forward to getting back together after a brief schedule we had in 2023. Going to be here for a few months to work and complete the show. Aliens is a beloved franchise and cant wait to bring this prequel to the world. Joining Adarsh Gourav in this exhilarating journey are co-stars Sydney Chandler, Alex Lawther, Samuel Blenkin, and Essie Davis, who collectively promise to deliver a captivating viewing experience. 'Aliens' is poised to redefine the sci-fi genre and offer viewers an immersive and unforgettable cinematic experience. Adarsh added: "I am thrilled to be part of 'Aliens' and embark on this exciting journey with such a talented cast and crew. The opportunity to work alongside renowned creators like Noah Hawley and Ridley Scott is truly humbling, and I look forward to bringing this gripping narrative to life. Im excited to shoot for the project after a brief schedule we had last year. Theres a great energy amongst the team and the cast and we cant wait to put all the energy into making the series as iconic as the franchise is. (IANS - Posted on 09 February 2024) Adarsh Gourav: Starting work on project envisioned by legend like Ridley Scott is very exciting Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Soniya Bansal: Vardhan Puri's grandfather Amrish Puri was one of my favourite villains Mumbai, Feb 9 Bigg Boss 17 contestant Soniya Bansal will be seen sharing screen space with actor Vardhan Puri in a music video called Ishq Hua set to release ahead of Valentines Day on Feb 12. She emphasised on Vardhans humble nature and cooperative demeanor on set. "It was a great experience on set. He has a very humble nature and is too cooperative as an actor. He brings the person to a comfortable place so that different moods of acting can be shown. Under the esteemed banner of T-Series, Soniyas latest endeavor seeks to capture the essence of love in its purest form. 'Ishq Hua', composed by the talented Shabbir Ahmed and lyrics by Shabbir Ahmed as well. Directed with finesse by Lavesh, 'Ishq Hua' promises to be a visual masterpiece, bringing to life the enchanting narrative woven by Soniya Bansal and Vardhan Puri. Beautiful song sung by S. Shubham and Saloni Batra. As the curtains rise on this musical extravaganza, audiences can expect to embark on a journey where love knows no bounds. Speaking about her character in the music video, she said: I played a blind role, and I literally lived the song with him. I would really like to work more with him. Soniya then reflected on her previous collaborations with T-Series, mentioning: "I have worked with T-Series before, but this is the first time I am doing a Hindi music album. I have done Punjabi songs before with T-Series label. Shabbir Ahmed has produced and written the song, and the overall experience was really very good." (IANS - Posted on 09 February 2024) Soniya Bansal: Vardhan Puri's grandfather Amrish Puri was one of my favourite villains Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Here is Rohit Roy's 'honest' reason for choosing 'Karmma Calling' Mumbai, Feb 8 Actor Rohit Bose Roy, who plays a pivotal role in the recently released thriller web series Karmma Calling has shared the real reason behind being part of this project, and it is director Ruchi Narain. It stars Raveena Tandon as Indrani Kothari, and Namrata Sheth as Karma Talwar and Ambika Mehra (daughter of Satyajit). The Kaabil actor took to Instagram to share several snapshots from the series, accompanied by a heartfelt and candid note. Rohit said: So here is an honest admission... The only reason I agreed to play Satyajeet in #karmmacalling is because it's directed by my dear friend @ruchinarain. And of course, I hold her in high esteem as a filmmaker so I knew I was in good hands!! When she called me last year, I said I'm doing it, no question about it, without even listening to what the special appearance was all about! And then boom!!! Jan 2024, the show dropped on @disneyplushotstar and I'm inundated with calls and messages about my performance in it, the note read. Rohit revealed his unexpected yet delightful surprise upon being cast in a role that challenged his usual typecasting. I was pleasantly SHOCKED, to say the least!! I was like HUH?!?! Did u even notice me?! Ruchi cast me against type and for once, a director held my hand through not only the shoot but also whilst dubbing making sure, she saw only the real me, not the make believe me l so often portray on screen, he said. The actor known for his work in Paltan also shared an anecdote for his friend and actor R. Madhavan: Something my dearest friend @actormaddy has been telling me since years!! This role has been an extension of myself as I am a father and my child's growing years have been the best. I love being a father and I got to portray it on screen! Double whammy! So, thank you Ruchi for Satyajeet. Now I have 3 rats in my life, Ruchi, @ashutoshunlimited and @itstahershabbir ! Rohit, who shared the screen space with Raveena in 2003 war film LOC Kargil, opened up on collaborating with her in the series. He shared: And of course, it was fab to reunite with @officialraveenatandon after years! She's grown so much as an actor and her carriage is truly apt for the show ! @ratfilmindia @disneyplushotstar PS: moral of the story is that whatever piece of work you attach your name to, give it your best... and do it honestly! People will identify and appreciate it, concluded Rohit. The show stars Varun Sood as Ahaan Kothari. It is streaming on Disney+Hotstar. (IANS - Posted on 09 February 2024) Here is Rohit Roy's 'honest' reason for choosing 'Karmma Calling' Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! G-Eazy India tour to feature Talwiinder, Dino James, Yashraj as opening acts Mumbai, Feb 9 American music sensation and rapper G-Eazy will be embarking on his first-ever tour of the Indian sub-continent over the coming weekend and it will feature Talwiinder, Dino James, Yashraj in opening acts. Produced by Sunburn, the tour which is poised to be a sold-out event with an expected footfall of over 45,000 fans, will feature an eclectic support line-up comprising of South Asian hip hop acts such as Ishq Nachaawe hitmaker Yashraj, Punjabi music experimentalist Talwiinder, Khatron Ke Khiladi winner and rapper Dino James and doctor turned DJ The Spindoctor. The others on the line-up include artists such as Dhanji & Siyaahi, Siana Catherine, DJ Shiva Manvi, Mogambo, DJ EXBOW, Virat Munjal, Beatcrush, DJ RISHIVURR, DJ Omen, SHIA X Zero Chill and Mr. Mickey Dino James shared that he is thrilled to bring an energetic performance with the Spindoctor for this tour. We're ready to bring our A-game, delivering a performance that will shake the ground and leave fans craving for more." Talwiinder, who gained the spotlight for Dhundhala and Dil Mera, shared that he is beyond excited to be part of the G-Eazys historic lineup. I can't wait to ignite the stage with my fiery rhymes and electrifying energy, delivering a performance that will leave the audience buzzing with excitement," he added. Yashraj added he is ready to bring his unique style and energy to the stage. With chart-topping hits such as Me, Myself & I, Tumblr Girls, Good Life, I Mean It, Him & I, and No Limit, the rapper and record producer will kick start his tour with Manpho Convention Centre, Bengaluru on February 10, New Delhi NCR on February 11 and Mumbai on February 15. (IANS - Posted on 09 February 2024) G-Eazy India tour to feature Talwiinder, Dino James, Yashraj as opening acts Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! 'Baby on its way', say Yami Gautam, Aditya Dhar; actress five-month pregnant Mumbai, Feb 8 Director Aditya Dhar of 'Uri' fame and his actress wife Yami Gautam Dhar, who are gearing up for their upcoming release 'Article 370', are also expecting her first child. Talking to the media about film, meanwhile, Aditya said 'Article 370', which draws its name from the now-abrograted constitutional provision that gave Jammu & Kashmir a special status, is a "ghar ki film" with his wife and his brother Lokesh. Then he went on to say, "And a baby on its way." Gautam, who is five months' pregnant, was visibly touched by her husband's words. She said, "If I cry right now listening to him, everyone will say, 'it's the pregnancy hormones', but genuinely this is so heartwarming." The actress arrived at the media interaction with her husband and her co-actor in the film, Priya Mani. She, incidentally, essayed the role of a RAW agent in Aditya Dhar's directorial debut film 'Uri: The Surgical Strike'. The film, with Vicky Kaushal in the lead role, presented a dramatised account of India's surgical strike in response to Pakistan's 2016 Uri attack. Yami and Aditya tied the nuptial knot on June 4, 2021, and have been going strong on both professional and personal fronts. They kept their romance under wraps until finally taking the wedding vows in an intimate ceremony in Himachal Pradesh. Produced by Jyoti Deshpande, Aditya Dhar and Lokesh Dhar, 'Article 370' is slated for release on February 23. (IANS - Posted on 09 February 2024) 'Baby on its way', say Yami Gautam, Aditya Dhar; actress five-month pregnant Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Literature to navigate romantic relationship New Delhi, Feb 8 The meaning of love may alter for each of us depending on the circumstances. Life is an emotional rollercoaster, and while everything appears to be wonderful and going well due to children, family, work pressure, and other challenges in life it is possible to flip life upside down with a switch. Tell Me More: Stories About the 12 Hardest Things I'm Learning to Say by Kelly Corrigan Kelly Corrigan's 2018 book 'Tell Me More: Stories About the 12 Hardest Things I'm Learning to Say' is based on personal anecdotes. The book delves into the power of using correct words at appropriate times. A guide to using the right words and phrases to foster relationships. The book is divided into twelve chapters, each of which focuses on 12 different phrases. The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts Gary Chapman's 1992 book, 'The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts', explores the various ways people express and receive love. Though the book was published in the 1990s, it became the best-selling book in the subsequent years, during the mid-2000s. The book's key point is to understand each other's love languages when navigating relationships, which is still applicable now as it was three decades ago. 8 Rules of Love: How to Find It, Keep It, and Let It Go The author of 'Think Like A Monk' releases '8 Rules of Love' with Simon & Schuster in 2023. Jay Shetty, the New York Times bestselling author, on an Instagram post captions, "Nobody sits us down and teaches us how to love so were often thrown into relationships with nothing but romance movies and pop culture to help us muddle through. My NYT best-seller changes all that by offering a new perspective drawing on ancient wisdom and new science." You Are A Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life by Jen Sincero With over 5 million copies sold, Jen Sincero's book 'You Are A Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life' is a motivational self-help guide. In this book, she shares her personal experiences and how she overcame obstacles. Self-doubt is a virus that restricts people from achieving their full potential in life. She encourages readers throughout the book to trust their inner badass and pursue what they are meant to do. N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe can be contacted at lothungbeni.h@ians.in (IANS - Posted on 09 February 2024) Literature to navigate romantic relationship Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! 'You are born for the dance floor', Shahid heaps praises on Adrija Sinha Mumbai, Feb 8 Actor Shahid Kapoor, who appeared on the celebrity dance reality show 'Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa', praised young diva Adrija Sinha, saying she has immense talent, and is born for the dance floor. Ace actor and comedian Javed Jaffery, who had introduced the country to break-dance, appeared on the episode as a special guest, while Shahid and Kriti Sanon made an appearance to promote their film 'Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya'. Topping the score chart week after week, Adrija, along with choreographer Akash Thapa, created magic once again with their performance on the song 'Laal Peeli Akhiyaan' from 'Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya'. The duo stunned one and all with their break-dance act as they performed wearing feet wheels, setting a new benchmark in the competition. Shahid said: "All I can say is that today is the day when the fan dances better than the artiste; my eyes couldn't move away from Adrija throughout the act. Adrija, you owned it. Every beat, every step, every expression of yours, I could feel the dance bursting out from within you." "You have immense talent and you were born for the dance floor. By watching you today, I have learned so much, thank you for that," he added. Kriti shared: "This was incredible, what a performance! I absolutely loved every moment of it. The way you danced, your energy, and your facial expressions were amazing. I'm truly a fan. In Laal Peeli Ankhiya, at one moment, you were playful with your tongue out, and the next, you were like a firecracker." "I could never imagine an act like this on this song. I think this is one of the best acts that I have seen on a live stage," added Kriti. Javed expressed his desire to perform alongside the talented Adrija. Together, they set the stage on fire as they grooved to the beats of Tare Gin Gin. Javed also presented Adrija with the coveted 'BOO' tag. 'Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa' airs on Sony. (IANS - Posted on 09 February 2024) 'You are born for the dance floor', Shahid heaps praises on Adrija Sinha Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! DHAKA, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese-built 1st transmission line of Power Grid Upgrading and Renovation Turnkey Project in Bangladesh has been put into operation, boosting the transmission capacity of power grid in the northwestern Rajshahi region. The project was jointly undertaken by Fujian Electric Power Engineering Company (FEPEC), CCC Engineering Ltd. and Jiangsu Etern Co., Ltd. The project covers the construction, expansion, upgrading and renovation of about 99 substations and about 1,000 km of transmission lines operated by the Power Grid Company of Bangladesh. The 1st transmission line is a 132kV double circuit line from Niyamatpur to Rahanpur. Shen Jianlong, chief representative of FEPEC, told Xinhua that after the operation, it will effectively improve Bangladesh weak power grid, make the power grid of 132kV connected and synchronized with 230 kV ring networks, and help Bangladesh power grid achieve stable operation. According to rough calculation, installed capacity of power constructed in form of general contract or subcontract by Chinese companies reaches more than 9,038MW, accounting for 35 percent of total installed capacity in Bangladesh, which secures stable power supply for rapid economic and social development of the country. Our precious child, Akul Dhawan, an 18-year-old first-year student at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, was found dead on the morning of January 20th with signs of hypothermia. Our son died in freezing conditions while at school on campus. No parent should ever experience their child passing away on campus with no one to help him. It was Akuls first year at UIUC. He had spent time with family over the winter break and returned to campus for the spring semester. It was only his first week back when we found out that he would never return home. We were so proud of our son for completing his semester and thriving at the university. He was a very smart kid who had his whole life before him. As a parent, I never thought Id receive such news. We are completely devastated. We have a big massive hole left in our family; we will never be the same. Nothing can bring him back. We were never notified by the university that there was any problem. On Saturday morning, we received a call that our son was missing. We immediately called the university police for more information. The police transferred our call to the coroners office. Thats how we were informed that our son had passed away. The police let us know that on Saturday, January 20th, 2024, one of Akul Dhawans friends reported him missing at 1:23 a.m. They had 10 hours to look for him. However, it was not the police that found Akul. He was found dead at 11:08 a.m., in the 1200 block of West Nevada Street, when a UI employee discovered him on the back porch of a building, less than half a block away from his last known location. We left for Urbana from California on January 21st and met with the police detectives and university officials the next day. We believe that the police never searched for our son. UI police never came in person to speak with the friend who reported him missing. We have been asking why Akul was found 10 hours later, rather than immediately after he was reported missing, when he could still be saved. The locations where he was reported missing and where he was found are less than 200 feet apart. 200 feet! Champaign, IL (61820) Today Mainly cloudy with snow showers around this morning. High 39F. Winds NW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of snow 70%.. Tonight Mainly clear. Low 26F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph. DNA changes consistent with life-threatening pregnancy complications have been found in the placentas of pregnant women infected by COVID-19, according to University of Queensland researchers. Dr Arutha Kulasinghe from UQ's Frazer Institute led a study which compared placental tissue from unvaccinated women who'd tested positive to SARS-CoV-2 within 15 days of giving birth, with the placentas of women who'd not been vaccinated or infected with the virus. We know viral infections in pregnancy can disrupt placental function and increase the likelihood of late-onset preeclampsia, preterm birth and stillbirth. However, the mechanism through which COVID-19 predisposes pregnancies to these conditions has been unclear. Using digital spatial profiling, we discovered the virus disrupts placental function by altering the genomic architecture of the cells critical to providing nutrients and blood supply to unborn babies. We also found the DNA fingerprints of poor placental oxygenation, stress and pre-eclampsia in the COVID-19 patients." Dr Arutha Kulasinghe from UQ's Frazer Institute Co-authors, QUT researcher Dr Nataly Stylianou and UQ's Dr Ismail Sebina said the research will enhance understanding about the impact of respiratory viruses on pregnancy health. "We went down to the gene level to see what happens to the placenta when a woman gets COVID-19 during pregnancy," Dr Stylianou said. "The placenta struggles and kicks into recovery mode." Dr Sebina said infections in pregnancy have always been linked with complications. "We know a lot about viruses like HIV, Hepatitis B and CMV, but it wasn't clear how a respiratory virus in pregnancy could impact a baby in utero," he said. "We found strong links between COVID-19 in pregnancy and the pathophysiology of preeclampsia, a severe and common pregnancy complication. "We have identified molecules in the placenta that could be the targets of future research to understand the underlying biology of this association. "We have identified molecules in the placenta that could be the targets of future research to understand the underlying biology of this association. "This is significant because we could predict which pregnancies are likely to progress towards preeclampsia and intervene before it happens." The research began at the start of the pandemic in 2020 and was carried out in collaboration with QUT, Mater Research and hospitals in Brazil. Dr Kulasinghe previously led studies mapping the impact of the virus on the heart and lungs. Associate Professor Fernando Guimaraes and Professor Gabrielle Belz from UQ's Frazer Institute also made significant contributions to the research. The research paper is published in Clinical and Translational Immunology. In a recent study posted to the eLife preprint server, researchers performed complete-brain voxel-wise functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to identify brain areas with functional-type compensation. They also investigated neurophysiological changes that maintain cognitive function in older adults. *Important notice: Preprints publishes preliminary scientific reports that are not peer-reviewed and, therefore, should not be regarded as conclusive, guide clinical practice/health-related behavior, or treated as established information. Background Age-related functional compensatory mechanisms in the cognitive neurobiology of healthy aging are controversial, according to which older individuals increase brain activity to compensate for decreased cognitive ability. However, whether the additional brain activity helps cognitive performance is uncertain. Neuroimaging reveals that the human brain can adapt to tissue losses by increasing brain activities to sustain cognitive functioning. Age similarly influences fluid intelligence, a cognition skill. About the study In the present study, researchers used fMRI data from a fluid intelligence test to identify brain areas involved in functional compensation and understand brain responses to tissue loss. They also explored the relationship between age-related changes in brain activation and cognitive performance, specifically in fluid intelligence tasks. The team analyzed data from 223 adult participants of the Cambridge Centre for Ageing Neuroscience (Cam-CAN) study to examine the relationship between age, cognitive performance, and brain activation patterns. Participants were aged 19 to 87 years, fluent in English, and mentally and physically fit, excluding those with MRI contraindications, poor mini-mental state examination (MMSE) scores, and psychiatric, medical, visual, or hearing impairments. The team performed functional and structural neuroimaging to study the relationship between age, cognitive performance, and brain activation patterns. They performed a problem-solving task based on the modified Cattell Culture Fair Intelligence test during fMRI. They scanned participants during the Cattell fluid intelligence task, completing puzzles from two difficulty levels, to determine whether the candidate compensation regions exhibited multivariate evidence of compensation. The dependent variables were the differences in functional MRI activation for hard vs. easy task blocks. The team used multivariate Bayesian decoding (MVB) to explore the role of multivoxel patterning in providing additional data related to task difficulty. They predicted that regions associated with functional compensation would have more data related to tasks with age. MVB was used to identify areas with additional multivariate data and support functional-type compensation, which involves the brain increasing activity to support cognitive functions in response to tissue loss. To identify patterns of brain activation, the team overlaid maps testing for positive influences of age and performance on brain function, assessed using the hard vs. easy contrast. They used multiple regressions for analysis, with activation maps reflecting the unique effects of each. The team repeated multiple regression after scaling the influence of Cattell activation by estimating the resting state fluctuation amplitude (RSFA) for each region of interest (ROI) from an independent resting-state scan for each participant. The team analyzed participant data using boxcar functions and statistical parametric mapping (SPM) hemodynamic response functions, fitting a model to each voxel. They defined functional compensation ROIs, the cuneal and frontal cortex by the empirical Bayes approach. They standardized and treated age and behavioral performance variables as linear predictors. Results Bilateral cuneal cortical activity increased with performance and age for hard vs. easy problems, even after adjusting for age-associated disparities in cerebrovascular reactivation. The cuneus region showed multivariate data supporting functional compensation, and age enhanced the likelihood of activation patterns, providing non-redundant data beyond the MDN work usually activated in the task. The modified Cattell task showed a decrease in behavioral performance with age during fMRI scans. A strong correlation was found between fMRI and standard Cattell task performance measures when performed one to three years prior. Bilateral activation in multiple demand network (MDN) regions, including the intraparietal sulcus, middle/inferior frontal gyri, anterior cingulate cortical region, anterior insula, and lateral and ventral occipital temporal cortical region, was observed, probable due to the visual type of tasks like problem-solving and fluid intelligence. Age-association increase in activity in the middle area of the frontal gyrus, precuneus, and motor supplementary areas was positively associated with performance in regions with higher activity for hard vs. easy tasks. Two brain regions, the bilateral cuneal and frontal cortical regions, exhibited spatially overlapping positive influences of performance and age, indicating age-associated compensatory responses. However, the frontal area demonstrated additive influences of both study variables, while the cuneus area exhibited signs of interaction. The study found that age significantly influences performance as older individuals engage in compensatory patterns. Conclusion Overall, the study findings showed that healthy older individuals compensate for fluid intelligence during visual problem-solving tasks by increasing the recruitment of the bilateral cuneal cortex. The compensation allows the brain to react to the loss of tissue by increasing cognitive functions, known as functional compensation. Fluid intelligence, which involves solving abstract problems, declines with age. The MDN involvement in fluid-intelligence tasks tends to decrease with age. The cuneus region may play a role in functional compensation, and its activation increases with age. *Important notice: Preprints publishes preliminary scientific reports that are not peer-reviewed and, therefore, should not be regarded as conclusive, guide clinical practice/health-related behavior, or treated as established information. ADDIS ABABA, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- A special Chinese New Year celebration was organized recently at the Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital, for travelers, providing warmth and a sense of homecoming for Chinese nationals. The event, which took place Tuesday, also marked the resumption of celebrations after a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Ethiopian Airlines, the event organizer. According to the lunar Chinese calendar, the New Year of 2024 starts on Feb. 10, when people of Chinese origin celebrate the Spring Festival. Tuesday's celebration featured a variety of distinctive Chinese cultural activities, allowing Chinese travelers to feel at home and experience a glimpse of the vibrant atmosphere of the Chinese New Year at one of the largest and busiest airports in Africa. As part of the celebration, hundreds of Chinese passengers participated in on-site dumpling making, prize collection, and lucky draws, while Chinese flight boarding gates were decorated with Spring Festival couplets, lanterns, and other traditional Chinese cultural elements. Senior Ethiopian government officials and members of the Chinese diplomatic community in Ethiopia joined the celebration at the airport with travelers from around the world. Mesfin Tassew, chief executive officer (CEO) of Ethiopian Airlines, emphasized the airline's commitment to becoming the most Chinese-friendly airline in Africa. He highlighted the airline's role in enhancing Sino-African socioeconomic and people-to-people connectivity. "China is an important market for Ethiopian Airlines. The Chinese people are our good friends, our good customers, and we are here to join them in celebrating the New Year holiday and to say congratulations on the New Year," Tassew said. Wishing a happy and prosperous Chinese New Year to Chinese nationals worldwide, the CEO reaffirmed the Ethiopian flag carrier's dedication to strengthening its alliance with Chinese passengers. "Ethiopian Airlines has been flying to China for the past 51 years. We fly about 35 passenger flights to China every week, transporting thousands of Chinese customers every day between China and Africa," Tassew added. As part of its ambition to provide a Chinese-friendly travel experience, Ethiopian Airlines offers Chinese-centered passenger services, including a dedicated counter for Chinese travelers at the airport. Shen Qinmin, minister counselor at the Chinese Embassy in Ethiopia, commended Ethiopian Airlines for hosting the colorful Chinese Lunar New Year celebration in particular and providing an unparalleled travel experience for Chinese passengers in general. "I would like to thank Ethiopian Airlines for providing the best quality services to its customers, including our Chinese passengers. Addis Ababa is a hub for Chinese passengers coming from China to all other African countries," Shen said. Shen further acknowledged Ethiopian Airlines for its role in connecting China and the wider African continent. "Ethiopian Airlines is truly a great gateway for all Chinese people to come to Africa. It is a gate of hospitality, a gate of warmth, and a gate of friendship," he said. Shen's acknowledgment was echoed by two Chinese nationals who were in transit from the Democratic Republic of the Congo back to China. "I have been working in Congo for a long time. It's rare to have Chinese food over there. But we are having dumplings here at the Bole airport free of charge, thanks to the celebration. I already feel the Spring Festival atmosphere before landing in China," said one of the passengers who failed to identify himself. In a recent study published in the journal eClinicalMedicine, researchers performed a meta-analysis on the immunogenicity and safety of vaccines for pregnant women living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections (PWLWH), comparing their immunogenicity effect to those without HIV infections (PWWH). Increased access to lifelong combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) has significantly aided the global reduction in mother-to-child HIV transmission. HIV-exposed uninfected (HEU) infants have a higher burden of infectious diseases than HIV-unexposed and uninfected (HUU). Immunization of PWLWH individuals could potentially reduce the severity of infectious diseases in early infancy. However, previous reports indicate that maternal vaccines given to PWLWH may be less immunogenic than those administered to PWWH. Most HEU children live in low- and middle-income countries, particularly SSA, where the HIV burden is highest. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends tetanus vaccines for pregnancy, and evidence from clinical trials supports the safety and immunogenicity of other maternal vaccines. However, data on safety and immunogenicity in pregnant women is scarce. Study: The safety and immunogenicity of vaccines administered to pregnant women living with HIV: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Image Credit: Hit Stop Media / Shutterstock About the study In the present meta-analysis, researchers examined the immunogenicity and safety of vaccines for HIV-exposed pregnant women. The team searched the Embase, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Virtual Health Library databases from study inception through January 31, 2022, and re-ran the search without language restrictions between February 1, 2022, and September 6, 2023. In addition, they searched the references to the relevant studies to identify additional records. The study included observational studies and randomized clinical trials administering vaccines to expecting women living with HIV infections and groups of HIV-uninfected women for comparison. They excluded animal studies, reviews, conference abstracts, and case series. Two researchers independently screened titles and abstracts, and a third researcher resolved disagreements. The researchers followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines for analysis. They used the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) to assess the methodological quality of non-randomized controlled trials. Three researchers evaluated bias risks related to generating random sequences, allocation concealing, personnel and participant blinding, outcome assessment blinding, selective reporting, and inadequate outcome data. They assessed publication bias based on funnel plot asymmetries. The team performed random effects modeling for the meta-analyses, assessing geometric mean titers (GMT) to compute effect sizes using the inverse variance-weighted method and report it as the mean difference. They used the I2 statistic to assess study heterogeneity. They performed group-stratified analyses, including HIV status and vaccine subtypes. Results The initial data search yielded 96,160 records, of which 75 underwent full-text screening, and 12 were eligible for the meta-analysis, including 3,744 expecting females, of which 1,714 were PWLWH. They identified three vaccines in the study, i.e., those for group B streptococci (GBS), influenza virus, and pneumococci. They rated the overall bias risk as low, but outcome assessment blinding-related bias as unclear. Five studies, including 3,456 PWLWH women, reported safety outcomes, with no increase in adverse events reported in PWLWH compared to PWWH. The GMT increase from baseline to weeks 28-35 post-vaccination in HA units ranged between 12 and 239. The pooled geometric mean difference in hemagglutination inhibition (HAI) titers following influenza vaccination was 56. The increase was less in PWLWH compared to PWWH: 142. The team observed the most significant difference in women receiving B strains (166) and the most negligible difference among those receiving A/ H3N1 vaccinations (112). One study documented one or more severe local reactions in four percent of PWLWH, whereas 19% had one or more severe systemic reactions a week post-vaccination. Compared to PWWH, five percent reported one or more severe local reactions, and 15% reported one or more severe systemic reactions. One study documented an increased frequency of injection-area adverse reactions with double-dosage influenza vaccinations among expecting women living with HIV infections. The most frequent serious adverse event was preterm birth, with higher rates among HIV-infected expecting women compared to their HIV-uninfected counterparts. Five studies evaluated immunogenicity for pneumococcal, influenza, and GBS vaccines, all reporting elevated antibody titers after four weeks of vaccination among PWLWH compared to baseline; however, antibody titers were lower compared to PWWH. Three studies on influenza vaccinations had adequate comparison information for meta-analytic research stratified by vaccine subtypes (A/H1N1 virus, A/H3N2 virus, B/Victoria virus, and B/Yamagata virus). The mean differences in antibody titers 28 to 35 days after influenza vaccinations were significantly higher in PWLWH than in PWWH. Overall, the study findings showed that there is limited data on the immunogenicity and safety of vaccines administered to HIV-infected expecting women. There was no difference in vaccine safety between PWLWH and PWWH concerning influenza, pneumococcal, and investigational GBS vaccines, but there was a significant elevation in antibody titers four weeks post-vaccination; however, the increase was lower in PWLWH compared to PWWH. The findings underscore the potential challenges for vaccine policy in countries with high HIV burdens and the need for PWLWH inclusion in maternal vaccine trials to promote vaccine confidence. The Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV) Result 2024 for admissions to Class 6 is anticipated to be released by the Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (JNVST) in February 2024 on the official websites, navodaya.gov.in or cbseitms.nic.in as per media reports. Phase 1 of the Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya class 6 test was successfully conducted on November 4, 2023, and Phase 2 took place on January 20, 2024. As soon as the Navodaya Vidyalaya Samitis official website is updated with the results, parents and students will be able to view the result for Class 6 admissions. Students must provide all of the login information, including their registration number and birthdate, that was provided to them at the time of enrollment in order to view the JNV Result 2024. JNVST Class 6 Result 2024: How to Check Students can download their online JNV Class 6 results 2024 once it is released by following the instructions listed below. Step 1: Go to navodaya.gov.in or cbseitms.nic.in, Navodaya Vidyalaya Samitis official website. Step 2: Select the JNV Class 6 Result 2024 link from the Home Page. Step 3: Enter the students birthdate and roll number. Step 4: At this point, press the Submit button. Step 5: The screen will show the Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya result for 2024. Step 6: Download the Navodaya Class 6th results 2024 by saving it, and make a copy of the same for your records. It is recommended that students stay informed and visit the Navodaya official website frequently to see the most recent updates. Students from classes 6 through 12 can attend Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya for free. In India, there are 649 NVS schools spread throughout 27 states and 8 Union Territories. To take the JNVST 2024, candidates must have finished class 5 in 20232024. There are two phases to the selection process. A written exam consisting of two sections is the first step. While Part 2 attempts to assess the students proficiency in the English language, Part 1 contains questions pertaining to science, arithmetic, and social studies. Those who pass the written exam advance to the stage of in-person interviews. The objectives of this round are to evaluate the students social skills, academic standing, and general personality. There will be 80 questions on the test totaling 100 marks, which will last two hours. Union home minister Amit Shah on Thursday (February 8) said India has decided to scrap the free movement regime along the 1,643-km Indo-Myanmar border, implemented almost five years ago to facilitate the people living in the border areas. When was the free movement regime with Myanmar implemented? A free movement regime (FMR) between India and Myanmar was implemented in 2018. Under this, every member of the hill tribes either a citizen of India or Myanmar and is a resident of an area within 16 km of the Indo-Myanmar border on both sides can cross the border on producing a pass. This was issued by the competent authority and was valid for a year; availing this facility, a person could stay for up to two weeks per visit. Why is the central government scrapping it? The ministry of home affairs has decided to scrap the FMR between India and Myanmar due to internal security concerns. In a tweet, Shah said: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has decided that the Free Movement Regime (FMR) between India and Myanmar be scrapped to ensure the internal security of the country and to maintain the demographic structure of Indias North Eastern States bordering Myanmar. Since the Ministry of External Affairs is currently in the process of scrapping it, MHA has recommended the immediate suspension of the FMR. (sic) The ministry has also taken this step in view of the ongoing unrest since last year between Kuki and Meitei groups in Manipur. India has now decided to fence the border in view of the situation in the violence-hit northeastern state. In his post on X, formerly Twitter, the home minister also said: It has decided to construct a fence along the entire 1,643-kilometer-long Indo-Myanmar border. To facilitate better surveillance, a patrol track along the border will also be paved. (sic) He added: Out of the total border length, a 10-km stretch in Moreh, Manipur, has already been fenced. Furthermore, two pilot projects of fencing through a Hybrid Surveillance System (HSS) are under execution. They will fence a stretch of 1 km each in Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur. Additionally, fence works covering approx 20 km in Manipur have also been approved, and the work will start soon. (sic) What does the Indo-Myanmar border look like? India shares a 1,643-km border with Myanmar, which passes through the states of Arunachal Pradesh (520 km), Nagaland (215 km), Manipur (398 km) and Mizoram (510 km). Out of 1,643 km, the demarcation of 1,472 km has been completed. An advanced smart fencing system of 100 km along this border is in the pipeline, so as to strengthen the existing surveillance system. The construction of fencing for a length of 10.023 km at Moreh has been awarded to the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). This work is in progress and 6.812 km has been fenced so far. Here is all you need to know about the other border areas in India: Indo-Pakistan border India shares 3,323 km of its land border with Pakistan, which runs along Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. This border has varied terrain and distinct geographical features, and is characterised by infiltration attempts by terrorists and smuggling of arms, ammunition and contraband. This is the most sensitive border for the central government, as well as for the armed forces due to the constant threat of cross-border terrorism. At least 736 border outposts (BOP) have been sanctioned along the Indo-Pakistan border, of which 675 have been completed. To curb infiltration attempts and cross-border crimes, the Centre has sanctioned the installation of floodlights on a length of 2,078.80 km, of which 2,043.76 Km has been covered. Indo-Bangladesh border The Indian side of the Indo-Bangladesh border touches West Bengal (2,216.7 km), which shares the longest part of it. This is followed by Tripura (856 km), Meghalaya (443 km), Mizoram (318 km) and Assam (263 km). The entire stretch consists of plains, riverine belts, hills and forests. It is heavily populated and cultivated right up to the border, which has limited fencing and, to curb infiltration, smuggling and other such activities, the government has undertaken the construction of fencing. This border poses a threat as some parts of it are porous and there are a number of reported cases of cross-border terrorism from these areas. Indo-Nepal border India and Nepal share a border of 1,751 km, which passes through Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal and Sikkim. The main challenges are to check the misuse of the open border by terrorists and criminals for illegal activities. The government has approved construction and upgrade of roads (1,299.80 km in length) along the border in Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. A total of 539 BOPs have been established along the Indo-Nepal border, which is porous while some areas also have illegal movement. Indo-China border To strengthen the infrastructure along the all-important Indo-China border, the government has undertaken various infrastructure projects construction of border roads, foot tracks, helipads, acclimatisation centres and establishment of BOPs in Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. China has, time and again, unilaterally tried to change the status quo that has led to a continuing dispute, while many of these border areas have also witnessed face-offs and fatal clashes. Indo-Bhutan border India and Bhutan share a border of 699 km, which passes through Assam, West Bengal, Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim. The main challenge is the misuse of the open border by terrorists and criminals for illegal activities. There are 195 BOPs along this border. Former Shiv Sena UBT corporator Abhishek Ghosalkar was shot dead by a notorious criminal Mauris Noronha in Mumbais IC colony during a Facebook live on Thursday evening. Morris, the man who shot at Ghoshalkar, shot himself later. According to new information surfaced in the case, Mauris had alleged harassment at the behest of Ghosalkar and would repeatedly say he would not spare him. ALSO READ: Ghosalkars Murder Not Linked to Maharashtra Law & Order Situation, Oppn Politicising It: Fadnavis Mauris and Ghosalkar were apparently in a political feud for the last three years. Mumbai police on Friday detained one person in connection with Ghosalkars killing whose pistol was allegedly used in the murder. Moments That Lead to Abhishek Ghosalkars Murder- The murder was planned a few months back by Mauris Noronha, who believed that Ghosalkar was behind the sexual harassment case registered against him. who believed that Ghosalkar was behind the sexual harassment case registered against him. Abhishek Ghosalkar, 40, was killed in Mauris office, which comes under the jurisdiction of MHB police station. The incident took place when Abhishekh and Morris were live on Facebook from Mauriss iPhone, which was placed on a tripod on the ground floor inside the cabin. Mauris and Ghosalkars friends were right outside the cabin where the incident took place. A total of 6 rounds were fired, out of which 5 were fired on Ghosalkar. Mauris fired one round on himself. Mauris had kept the gun used in the firing inside a cupboard on the first floor of the building. Mauris had stood still for about 4-5 seconds watching the lifeless body of Ghosalkar after shooting him. He then went to the first floor of the building, reloaded the gun and shot himself. Mumbai Police on Friday arrested accused Mauris Noronhas private bodyguard, Amrendra Mishra, whose pistol was allegedly used in the murder. Mishra was arrested under the Arms Act and will be presented in court on Saturday. The gun was issued by Phoolpur police in Uttar Pradesh in 2003 and its licence was to expire in February 2026. Police have recorded the statements of various people associated with the case, including eyewitnesses. Statements of Mauris family members were also recorded. Sources said that Mauris wife told the cops he believed that Ghosalkar was behind the rape charges levelled against him because of which he had to spend 90 days in jail. Mauris would repeatedly mention that he will not spare Ghosalkar. Their mutual friends were trying to resolve the conflict between them. The Facebook Live was an initiative for the patch-up. A video of the incident showed Ghosalkar being shot in the abdomen and shoulder. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced the highest civilian award of the nation, Bharat Ratna, for former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao. Along with former PM Rao, the award has also been announced for former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh and agricultural scientist Dr MS Swaminathan. Taking to his official account on X, PM Modi wrote, Delighted to share that our former Prime Minister, Shri PV Narasimha Rao Garu, will be honoured with the Bharat Ratna. He further wrote that as a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao Garu served India extensively in various capacities. He said, He is equally remembered for the work he did as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Union Minister, and as a Member of Parliament and Legislative Assembly for many years. His visionary leadership was instrumental in making India economically advanced, laying a solid foundation for the countrys prosperity and growth. Narasimha Rao Garus tenure as Prime Minister was marked by significant measures that opened India to global markets, fostering a new era of economic development. Furthermore, his contributions to Indias foreign policy, language and education sectors underscore his multifaceted legacy as a leader who not only steered India through critical transformations but also enriched its cultural and intellectual heritage, PM Modi added. The former prime minister died of a heart attack on December 23, 2004. Here is All You Need to Know About PV Narasimha Rao Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award of the nation, for agricultural scientist, also known as the father of Indias Green Revolution Dr MS Swaminathan. The award has also been announced for former Prime Ministers PV Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh. Taking to his official account on X, PM Modi wrote, It is a matter of immense joy that the Government of India is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dr. MS Swaminathan Ji, in recognition of his monumental contributions to our nation in agriculture and farmers welfare. He further said that Dr Swaminathan played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture during challenging times and made outstanding efforts towards modernizing Indian agriculture. We also recognise his invaluable work as an innovator and mentor and encouraging learning and research among several students. Dr. Swaminathans visionary leadership has not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured the nations food security and prosperity. He was someone I knew closely and l always valued his insights and inputs, he added. On September 28, last year Dr Swaminathan passed away at the age of 98 at his residence in Chennai. Here is All You Need to Know About Dr M S Swaminathan Bharat Ratna 2024: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award of the nation, for former Prime Ministers PV Narasimha Rao, Chaudhary Charan Singh and agricultural scientist Dr MS Swaminathan, posthumously. Last week, BJP veteran and former deputy prime minister Lal Krishna Advani accepted the honour of Bharat Ratna with humility and gratitude and said that the motto This life is not mine. My life is for my Nation is what inspired his life. He extended his gratitude towards the two persons, with whom he had the honour of working closely Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya and Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Earlier in January, President Droupadi Murmu announced that former Bihar chief minister Karpoori will be conferred with Bharat Ratna posthumously. Bharat Ratna was instituted in the year 1954 and is awarded to people for their exceptional public service and performance of the highest order in any field like literature, science and art. Congress leader Sonia Gandhi on Friday welcomed the Centres decision to award Bharat Ratna to former Prime Ministers PV Narasimha Rao, Chaudhary Charan Singh, and agricultural scientist Dr MS Swaminathan, posthumously. The former party president said, I welcome them, why not. while moving out of the Parliament and heading towards her car. VIDEO | Heres what Congress leader Sonia Gandhi said on #BharatRatna for former prime ministers P V Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh as well as agriculture scientist M S Swaminathan.I welcome them. Why not, she said. pic.twitter.com/6nDlghHiTC Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 9, 2024 Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award of the nation, for the two former Prime Ministers, and an agricultural scientist posthumously. On behalf of the Indian National Congress, party president Mallikarjun Kharge applauded the decision as he posted on the microblogging site, X. Congress party applauds their vision, their hard work, and the exceptional legacies of these national icons, which the nation has always celebrated, he said. Recalling the contribution of former prime minister and former Congress president P V Narasimha Rao, Kharge said that he has tremendously contributed to nation-building, adding that during his regime India embarked on a transformative journey with a series of economic reforms that played a pivotal role in shaping the middle class for generations to come. On the behalf of Indian National Congress, we welcome the Bharat Ratna being conferred to Shri P V Narasimha Rao, Chaudhary Charan Singh, and Dr M S Swaminathan.1. Former Prime Minister and Former Congress President, Shri P V Narasimha Rao has tremendously contributed to the nation Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) February 9, 2024 Crediting former prime minister Chaudhary Charan Singh for pro-farmer policies, Kharge said that crores of farmers respect Singh, who helped strengthen rural India. He also called Singh son of the soil. The party president called Dr Swaminathan a legendary scientist, who is known for his unmatched contribution to the field of agricultural science and his intervention in making India self-sufficient in food grains through the Green Revolution, is a milestone in nation-building. An institution builder par excellence, above all a humanitarian, he is also known as the Father of Economic Ecology, a richly deserved pseudonym. he posted on X. The Lok Sabha is holding a 12-hour discussion on the White Paper presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today. The document highlighted the corruption, scams, economic mismanagement and poor policy planning in the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government. Nirmala Sitharaman tabled the White Paper in the House in both Hindi and English languages. While it comprised a list of failures of the UPA government, it also contained a list of steps taken by the NDA government to turn the economy around and build the nations image. LOK SABHAS DEBATE Starting the debate on the White Paper in the Lok Sabha, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that for Congress, it is always family first. The comparison shown in this White Paper clearly says how if the government handles it with true sincerity, transparency and putting the nation first, the results are there for everybody to see, she added. Sitharaman said that the Modi government led the nation from the forefront during Covid-19. She said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi restored the nations glory. Bringing up the 2010 Commonwealth games, the finance minister said the way it was handled, it brought bad reputation to the nation. She said the coal scam also took place during the UPA regime. It took 10 years to bring the nations economy back to the right track, Sitharaman said while highlighting the NDAs economic reforms. UPA turned coal into ashes and NDA, with its hardwork, turned the coal into diamond, Sitharaman said. The finance minister hit out at the Congress saying that they ruined the nation, while noting the Modi-led government put an end to the crony capitalism. A LOOK AT THE WHITE PAPER SAID A comparison of the UPA years with 10 years of Narendra Modi government, the White Paper also shed light on the banking crisis legacy of the UPA government. When the Vajpayee-led NDA government took office, the Gross Non-Performing Assets (GNPA) ratio in Public Sector banks was 16.0 per cent, and when left office, it was 7.8 per cent. Numerous scams were bringing colossal revenue losses for the exchequer and fiscal and revenue deficits spiralling out of control. In 2014, our government inherited a deeply damaged economy whose foundations had to be rebuilt to enable self-sustaining long-term economic growth, the White Paper mentioned. As many as 15 scams in the UPA regime were highlighted by the finance minister in the Lok Sabha. The Coal Block Allocation was the first scam highlighted by Sitharaman in the white paper. At the time, it came under direct supervision of the prime minister and hence sullied the Mr Clean image of Dr Manmohan Singh. It involved corruption in the Centres allocation of coal blocks to private entities for captive use, leading to an estimated loss of Rs 1.86 lakh crore to the exchequer. The Supreme Court cancelled 204 such allocations, the white paper stated. She also brought up the 2G spectrum scam which involved a loss of Rs 1.76 lakh crore of potential revenue to the Centre as estimated by a CAG report. Then Congress minister Kapil Sibal claimed that there were zero losses, which led to widespread public anger. It sent then telecom minister D Raja, an ally of the Congress, to jail for months along with high-profile bureaucrats. The Modi governments White Paper noted that decision-making in the UPA government came to a standstill due to corruption and scandals in defence, comprising defence preparedness. It said that time and again, there was a crisis of leadership in the UPA government. It came out in full public glare in the shameful public tearing up of an ordinance issued by the government. Commitment to the agriculture sector and farmers, display of statesmanship cutting across political divides and honouring the contributions of southern India to nation-building are the major themes reflected in the awarding of the prestigious Bharat Ratna to former prime ministers Chaudhary Charan Singh and Narasimha Rao and architect of the Green Revolution MS Swaminathan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced his governments decision to bestow Indias highest civilian honour on Charan Singh, Narasimha Rao and MS Swaminathan on Friday. Narasimha Rao steered India through critical transformations and also enriched its cultural and intellectual heritage, the PM said on X. Raos visionary leadership was instrumental in making India economically advanced and laid a solid foundation for its prosperity, growth. Delighted to share that our former Prime Minister, Shri PV Narasimha Rao Garu, will be honoured with the Bharat Ratna. As a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao Garu served India extensively in various capacities. He is equally remembered for the work he did as pic.twitter.com/lihdk2BzDU Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 9, 2024 Bharat Ratna to Charan Singh dedicated to his incomparable contribution to country, he posted on the microblogging site. pic.twitter.com/gB5LhaRkIv Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 9, 2024 Swaminathan made monumental contributions to country in agriculture and farmers welfare, Modi said in another post. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture and made outstanding efforts in modernising it. It is a matter of immense joy that the Government of India is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dr. MS Swaminathan Ji, in recognition of his monumental contributions to our nation in agriculture and farmers welfare. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in pic.twitter.com/OyxFxPeQjZ Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 9, 2024 The government had earlier announced Bharat Ratna for former deputy prime minister and BJP stalwart LK Advani and former Bihar chief minister Karpoori Thakur. Putting Farmers First The awarding of the Bharat Ratna to farmer leader and former PM Chaudhary Charan Singh as well as agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan reiterates the Modi governments commitment to the agricultural sector and the farmers. Charan Singh was born on December 23, 1902 in Noorpur in Meerut district of Uttar Pradesh to a family of farmers. Influenced by Mahatma Gandhis non-violence, he entered the independence movement. After Independence, he associated himself with socialism in rural areas. He was the chief architect of land reforms in Uttar Pradesh and took a leading part in the formulation and finalisation of the Department of Redemption Bill 1939, which brought great relief to rural debtors. In 2001, the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government declared December 23, Chaudhary Charan Singhs birth anniversary, to be celebrated as National Farmers Day. The decision was taken to recognise Chaudhary Charan Singhs contribution to the upliftment of farmers and the development of the agriculture sector. PM Modi has previously hailed Charan Singh as a tall mass leader who dedicated his life to the welfare of farmers and the poor. MS Swaminathan, meanwhile, was the driving force behind the nations Green Revolution. The celebrated agriculture icon had passed away at the age of 98 in September last year. At a very critical period in our nations history, his groundbreaking work in agriculture transformed the lives of millions and ensured food security for our nation, PM Modi had said in his condolence message. Beyond his revolutionary contributions to agriculture, Dr Swaminathan was a powerhouse of innovation and a nurturing mentor to many. His unwavering commitment to research and mentorship has left an indelible mark on countless scientists and innovators. Born in Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu on August 7, 1925, Swaminathan played a significant role in changing the trajectory of the agriculture sector when farmers were dependent on archaic farming techniques. Swaminathans research that began as a plant geneticist addressed the issue of food insecurity, helped small farmers increase their income by enhancing productivity. Eventually, a nation that once depended on American wheat to feed its people in the 1960s was transformed into a foodgrain surplus nation. Statesmanship Two of the Bharat Ratna awardees, Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh, come from non-BJP backgrounds, indicating the Modi governments non-partisan approach in awarding the civilian honour. Paying tribute to Rao on his birth anniversary in 2022, PM Modi had said: India is grateful to him for his rich contribution to national progress. He also made a mark as a great scholar and intellectual. Rao, a veteran Congress leader who served a full five-year term after taking over as prime minister in 1991, is credited with liberalising the Indian economy and effecting transformational changes. South Connect Two of the awardees, Narasimha Rao and MS Swaminathan, hail from south India, a region with which the Prime Minister shares a deep connect. He has on numerous occasions hailed the contribution and expertise of scientists and leaders from southern India. by Burak Akinci ANKARA, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Turkiye's ratification of Sweden's NATO entry which led to the approval of weapon sales by the United States has given a boost to the uneasy relationship between the two countries, but other thorny issues remain, experts said. Following nearly two years of delay, the Turkish parliament ratified the Nordic country's entry to the Western military alliance late last month, a decision swiftly approved by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Subsequently, the United States has approved the multi-billion sale of 40 F-16 fighter jets to Ankara and modernization packages for its existing fleet of U.S.-made aircraft. Erdogan made Sweden's membership contingent on approving the sale of the new planes. The conclusion of this long-sought deal may reverse a downtrend in bilateral relations that have caused tensions between the two NATO allies in the last decade, according to analysts. "The Sweden-F-16 deal will certainly have a positive impact on bilateral ties," Ali Oguz Dirioz, an associate professor of international relations at Ankara's TOBB University of Economics and Technology, told Xinhua. In Dirioz's view, it will be important for both sides to continue the momentum to some extent and gradually reduce the problematic points in bilateral relations. Soner Cagaptay, director of the Turkish Research Program at the Washington Institute, echoed Dirioz's remarks. He told Xinhua that the end of the Ankara-Washington standoff constitutes "the first real opportunity to kick off a much-anticipated virtuous cycle in U.S.-Turkiye ties" since key divergences in bilateral ties emerged a decade ago in Syria. Ankara has launched several incursions in northern Syria against Kurdish fighters of the People's Protection Units (YPG), which it considers a "terrorist threat". Turkish operations against the YPG have long been a source of strong disputes between Turkiye and the U.S., as the latter considers the Syrian Kurds to be an ally in the fight against the Islamic State and provides them with training, arms, and political protection. Dirioz said that in this particular case, Turkiye and the U.S. don't agree on the notion of "terrorists" in regard to the YPG, but that, nevertheless, a compromise could be found. "Turkiye's ratification of Sweden's accession is a huge deal in terms of Turkiye's ties with NATO and the United States," he said. Cagaptay said he anticipates a possible invitation from U.S. President Joe Biden for his Turkish counterpart to meet him in the White House in the coming months. The Turkish leader has not officially visited the U.S. yet since Biden was elected in office in 2020. Turkiye's deepening cooperation with Russia is another source of friction in the Turkish-American relationship. Ankara's purchase of sophisticated Russian S-400 defense systems exacerbated friction with Washington and other NATO partners. U.S. Acting Deputy Secretary of State Victoria Nuland encouraged Ankara to give up its Russian-made air defense system for its return to the fifth-generation F-35 stealth jet fighter program during her visit to Turkiye in late January. In an interview with CNN Turk, she said the U.S. would welcome Turkiye back into the F-35 project if it addressed outstanding concerns over the presence of Russian-made missile systems in the country. Turkiye was one of the main contributors to the F-35 program and had planned to buy 100 jets. But in 2019, it found itself kicked out of the project by Washington who argued that the S-400s and the F-35 could not co-exist. Ankara, which has spent 2.5 billion dollars on the project, did not officially comment on the American diplomat's remarks. Nuland also stressed that Turkiye's acquisition of the F-16s is a "priority" for the U.S. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday took to X to announce that the Bharat Ratna, Indias highest civilian honour, would be conferred on former prime ministers PV Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh and agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan. The announcement comes close on the heels of the government also bestowing the honour on veteran BJP leader LK Advani and former Bihar chief minister Karpoori Thakur. At five, one more than the four announced in 1999, this is the maximum number of Bharat Ratnas announced for a year. Heres a look at the five stalwarts who have been awarded the Bharat Ratna in 2024: PV Narasimha Rao: Rao was born in 1921 in Andhra Pradeshs Karimnagar and studied at Osmania University in Hyderabad, Bombay University, and Nagpur University. A Congress leader, he was prime minister for a full five-year term during 1991-96 and is widely recognised for ushering in economic reforms. Paying rich tributes to Rao, who passed away in 2004, PM Modi said he served the country extensively in various capacities as a distinguished scholar and statesman. He said Rao is equally remembered for the work he did as the chief minister of Andhra Pradesh, a Union minister and as lawmaker in Parliament and assembly for many years. His visionary leadership was instrumental in making India economically advanced, laying a solid foundation for the countrys prosperity and growth, Modi said. Narasimha Rao Garus tenure as prime minister was marked by significant measures that opened India to global markets, fostering a new era of economic development, he added. Raos admirers have long argued that he has not been given his due by the Congress due to his less than warm relations with the Nehru-Gandhi family, a point often made by BJP leaders too. As the countrys first and only full-term prime minister from south India, Rao occupies a special place in the region. Charan Singh: Born in Uttar Pradeshs Meerut in 1902, Charan Singh served as the prime minister from July 28, 1979, to January 14, 1980. He was first elected to the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly in 1937 from Chhaprauli. He represented the constituency in 1946, 1952, 1962 and 1967. A champion of farmer causes, Singh was a Jat leader from western Uttar Pradesh and one of the pioneers of anti-Congress politics at a time the party was a hegemonic political force. Honouring Singh, PM Modi said: It is our governments fortune that Singh is being honoured with the Bharat Ratna and it is dedicated to his incomparable contributions to the country. Be it as an MLA, as Uttar Pradesh chief minister or the countrys home minister, he always speeded up the nation-building exercise and also stood strongly against the Emergency. The honour for Singh comes at a time the RLD, led by his grandson Jayant Singh, is believed to be in talks with the BJP for an alliance for the Lok Sabha polls, expected in April-May. Singh died in 1987. MS Swaminathan: Popularly known as the Father of Green Revolution in India, Swaminathan was born in 1925. He obtained a BSc degree in Zoology from the Maharajas College in Thiruvananthapuram, and also in Agricultural Sciences from the Coimbatore Agricultural College. Swaminathan had played a key role in developing high-yielding varieties of paddy that enabled Indias farmers to produce more yield. He had the vision to rid the world of hunger and poverty. An advocate of sustainable development and preservation of bio-diversity, he has been described by the United Nations Environment Programme as the Father of Economic Ecology. PM Modi said it is a matter of immense joy that his government is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Swaminathan in recognition of his monumental contributions to the nation in agriculture and farmers welfare. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture during challenging times and made outstanding efforts towards modernising Indian agriculture. We also recognise his invaluable work as an innovator and mentor and encouraging learning and research among several students, he said. Swaminathans visionary leadership has not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured the nations food security and prosperity, the prime minister said, noting that he knew him closely and always valued his insights and inputs. The agronomist passed away last year. LK Advani: The architect of the Ram Mandir movement, Advani had been the BJP national president from 1986-90, 1993-98, and 2004-05. He was first the Home Minister and later, the Deputy Prime Minister in the former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayees cabinet from 1999 to 2004. Advani became the face of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement in the late 1980 that shaped, and continues to define the saffron partys electoral and political fortunes. Together with Vajpayee, he went on to build the BJP brick by brick and orchestrated its steep rise in the 1990s. In the late 1980s and the 1990s, he focused on building the BJP into a national political force and the results reflected in the 1989 General Election. BJP bounced back from 2 seats in 1984 to 86 seats in 1989. A 10-term parliamentarian, Advani projected himself as the PM candidate in the 2009 elections, despite many leaders unsupportive of the move. The BJP suffered a resounding defeat to the Congress-led UPA in the 2009 polls and impacted Advanis stature and position within the party. The 96-year-old leader was made a member of the Margdarshak Mandal after the BJP won the election under Narendra Modi in 2014. Karpoori Thakur: Born in Bihars Samastipur District in 1924, Karpoori Thakur served as the chief minister of the state twice, first from December 1970 to June 1971 and then from December 1977 to April 1979. Dubbed Jan Nayak by many in the state, his recognition met a long-standing demand of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and his Janata Dal United. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was delighted that the great Jan Nayak Karpoori Thakur Ji will be conferred the prestigious award and that too at a time when we are marking his birth centenary. This prestigious recognition is a testament to his enduring efforts as a champion for the marginalised and a stalwart of equality and empowerment, PM Modi said in a post on X. KERALA LOTTERY NIRMAL NR-366 RESULT ON FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, LIVE UPDATES: The Kerala State Lottery Department has announced the results of the Nirmal NR-366 lucky draw for Friday, February 9. Check the full list of winning numbers below. ALSO READ: Kerala Lottery Result Today LIVE: Sthree Sakthi SS-402 WINNERS for February 13, 2024; First Prize Rs 75 Lakh! NIRMAL NR-366 LOTTERY: WINNING NUMBERS WINNING NUMBERS FOR CONSOLATION PRIZE WORTH RS 8,000 ARE NA 451246 NB 451246 NC 451246 NE 451246 NF 451246 NG 451246 NH 451246 NJ 451246 NK 451246 NL 451246 NM 451246 WINNING NUMBER FOR 1ST PRIZE WORTH RS 70 LAKH IS ND 451246 (CHITTUR) Agent Name: SHOBHA M Agency No.: P 5287 WINNING NUMBER FOR 2ND PRIZE WORTH RS 10 LAKH IS NG 988279 (MALAPPURAM) Agent Name: K SAJESH Agency No.: M 260 WINNING NUMBER FOR 3RD PRIZE WORTH RS 1 LAKH ARE NA 109909 (PATTAMBI) NB 851255 (MANANTHAVADY) NC 273892 (VAIKKOM) ND 290706 (THAMARASSERY) NE 597220 (CHITTUR) NF 523262 (IRINJALAKUDA) NG 545642 (KOLLAM) NH 510471 (KANHANGAD) NJ 769575 (THRISSUR) NK 124775 (KANHANGAD) NL 570564 (PALAKKAD) NM 576232 (ERNAKULAM) WINNING NUMBERS FOR 4TH PRIZE WORTH RS 5,000 ARE 0796 1215 2117 2850 3243 3337 3385 4489 4888 5690 6420 6763 7034 7288 8303 9264 9265 9684 WINNING NUMBERS FOR 5TH PRIZE WORTH RS 1,000 ARE 0564 0607 0789 1024 1064 1418 1987 2017 2406 2649 3122 3145 3293 3380 4170 4188 4328 4467 4599 4781 5167 5309 5558 6004 6604 6935 7014 7211 7354 7658 7812 8592 8607 9114 9661 9796 WINNING NUMBERS FOR 6TH PRIZE WORTH RS 500 ARE 0030 0207 0367 0451 0515 0833 0991 1100 1134 1190 1315 1317 1332 1547 1714 1963 2112 2183 2459 2613 2771 2851 2869 3190 3198 3253 3363 3375 3477 3513 3627 3818 3968 4019 4288 4630 4655 4675 4683 4847 4859 4885 4975 4991 5388 5484 5659 6155 6309 6408 6465 6540 6541 6817 6873 7149 7180 7276 7314 7332 7345 7544 7619 7659 8093 8591 8685 8822 8846 8867 8922 8979 9085 9117 9222 9314 9476 9536 9692 WINNING NUMBERS FOR 7TH PRIZE WORTH RS 100 ARE 0125 0139 0179 0294 0324 0335 0426 0441 0485 0802 0878 0918 0949 0959 0967 1014 1090 1172 1355 1530 1551 1782 1834 1932 1974 2031 2054 2105 2111 2143 2187 2449 2589 2625 2757 2811 3040 3115 3258 3543 3583 3700 3701 3742 3787 3842 3911 3945 4152 4165 4202 4268 4418 4491 4671 4711 4746 5024 5082 5118 5138 5203 5353 5405 5440 5456 5683 5712 5747 5803 5819 5952 6041 6137 6229 6311 6930 6980 7188 7223 7260 7280 7347 7524 7528 7566 7615 7661 7694 7776 7843 7846 7853 7866 7874 8024 8106 8181 8201 8457 8489 8583 8727 8735 8827 8907 8947 8964 8998 9015 9069 9182 9218 9332 9350 9372 9479 9549 9600 9886 9898 9917 NIRMAL NR-366 LOTTERY: PRIZE STRUCTURE 1st Prize: Rs 70 Lakh 2nd Prize: Rs. 10 Lakh 3rd Prize: Rs. 1 Lakh 4th Prize: Rs. 5,000 5th Prize: Rs. 1,000 6th Prize: Rs. 500 7th Prize: Rs. 100 Consolation Prize: Rs. 8,000 HOW TO CHECK KERALA NIRMAL NR-366 LOTTERY RESULTS? You can check the results of the Nirmal NR-366 lottery through two methods. Firstly, you can visit the official website of the Kerala Lottery Department at www.keralalottery.info. Alternatively, you can verify ticket numbers through physical validation in the Kerala Government Gazette. HOW TO CLAIM THE PRIZE MONEY? To determine if youve won the Nirmal Lottery NR-366, check your ticket number against the draw results published in the Kerala Government Gazette. If they match, you have won. Winners have 30 days to claim their prize at the Kerala Lottery Office in Thiruvananthapuram. Make sure to bring your winning ticket and proper ID for verification to claim your prize money. Mumbai Polices Crime branch on Friday took over the investigation of former Shiv Sena (UBT) corporator Abhishek Ghosalkars murder. Ghosalkar was shot by an infamous criminal Mauris Noronha in Mumbais IC colony over some personal dispute. So far no arrests have been made in connection with the case. Mumbai police detained one person in connection with Ghosalkars killing on Friday. The accused has been identified as Mehul, an ANI report said. Abhishek (40) son of Thackeray faction leader Vinod Ghosalkar was shot by Mauris when the two were live on Facebook. A senior police official told PTI that Ghosalkar was hit by four bullets. Later, Mauris shot himself dead too, officials said. Notably, police found a pistol and a live cartridge from Mauris office. The Crime Branchs investigation will focus on several aspects, including how Noronha got the weapon and who provided it to him, if he was under the influence of alcohol at the time and the questioning of people who were present at the spot when Ghosalkar was fired upon, a police officer said. The MHB Colony police registered a case after the murder, while Joint Commissioner of Police (Law & Order) Satya Narayan and DCP Datta Nalawade visited the spot for investigation. The case was transferred to the Mumbai Crime Branch late on Thursday. WHAT WAS THE PERSONAL DISPUTE? Mauris and Ghosalkar were apparently in a political feud for the last three years. Mauris, popularly known as Mauris Bhai, had emerged as a local hero during the Covid-19 pandemic due to his social work. Seeing his popularity, Mauris wished to contest the elections, however, Ghosalkar was against this wish because his wife was the corporator from that constituency. Additionally, Mauris suspected Ghosalkars hand in his recent arrest in a cheating case, due to which he had to spend 90 days in jail. Their mutual friends were trying to resolve their conflict in a bid to patch up Ghosalkar and Mauris. The Facebook live was an initiative for the patch up, however it ended up with Mauris shooting at Ghosalkar. A video of the incident, which took place at Mauris Noronhas office in Borivali (West), showed Ghosalkar being shot in the abdomen and shoulder. Former Prime Minister P V Narasimha Raos daughter and BRS MLC Vani Devi on Thursday appreciated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for seeing beyond party lines in recognising the late Congress leader with the Bharat Ratna, and said that although the award has come slightly late, its ok because it is the highest civilian honour. Narasimha Rao belongs to the whole nation, she said. Everyone is happy. He is not only a son of Telugu soil but he belongs to the whole nation, she said. Narasimha Rao, who became prime minister when the country was facing tough times, implemented reforms that were recognised by the whole world, she said. The prime minister from the Congress party had initiated reforms and found permanent solutions to problems in sectors as varied as economy and external affairs, she said. Commending Prime Minister Modis gesture of awarding the Bharat Ratna to a stalwart of an opposition party, Vani Devi said Beyond parties, recognising PV and conferring Bharat Ratna shows the good values, manners of our Prime Minister. She, however, pointed out that the award could have come sooner. Though there is a slight delay, its ok. Bharat Ratna is the highest civilian honour. Telangana people are very happy over Bharat Ratna being conferred upon Narasimha Rao. The family members are overwhelmed. We are very excited, she added. The BRS MLC also lauded the previous government of her party led by former Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, for having celebrated the birth centenary of Narasimha Rao on a grand scale. Narasimha Rao was the first leader from the southern states to become Prime Minister, she recalled. She said she was getting calls from Maharashtra and Odisha as he was elected as a Member of Parliament from those states. She was also getting calls from Delhi. Narasimha Rao was elected to Lok Sabha from Ramtek in Maharashtra and Berhampore in Odisha and also from Nandyal and Hanumakonda in undivided Andhra Pradesh. Vani Devi and other BRS MLCs as well as BRS MLAs paid floral tributes to a portrait of Narasimha Rao kept in the legislature buildings here. BRS MLC K Kavitha and others felicitated Vani Devi on the legislative council premises following the announcement of the Bharat Ratna conferred on Narasimha Rao, a BRS release said. An NIA Special Court in Kerala has sentenced an ISIS operative to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment (RI) for promoting the banned terrorist outfits violent ideology and conspiring to carry out suicide attacks in Kochi. The accused, Riyas Aboobacker, a resident of Palakkad (Kerala), has also been fined by the special court. He was arrested by the NIA on September 24, 2019, and charge-sheeted in October of the same year. Aboobacker has been found guilty under sections 38 and 39 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and section 120B of IPC. He is the third person to be convicted in the ISIS Kasaragod Module case. The case is related to the activities of 14 youths from the Kasaragod district of Kerala who, along with their families, had exited India between May and July 2016 and had joined ISIS/ Daish in the Islamic Caliphate announced by the proscribed terrorist organisation. NIA in its investigations found that Riyad in October 2018, also conspired to carry out suicide attacks at prominent business centres in Kochi to spread terror and further the activities of ISIS. Investigations had further established that Riyas had motivated and sought support from his co-conspirators for carrying out the terrorist acts. Riyas, who went by the name Abu Dujana on social media, had been radicalised into the ISIS/Daish ideology since 2017 by absconding accused, Abdul Rashid Abdulla and Ashfak Majeed In 2018, the probe agency obtained the conviction of Yasmeen Mohammed Zahid, who was sentenced to 7 years RI with a fine, followed by Nashidul Hamsafar, who was handed 5 years RI in 2021. NIA had taken over the case, originally registered at the Chandera Police Station, Kerala, in August 2016, and is continuing with its investigations in the matter. Swiss pharmaceutical firm Roche has sounded alarm against clinical trials conducted by Zydus Lifesciences on its biologic drug Perjeta, a widely-used breast cancer treatment. The Swiss company has filed a complaint against the Indian drug maker over alleged critical gaps in the clinical trial of a drug originally developed by Roche. Roche, a global biotech giant, claims that the drug used by Zydus in the starting phase of clinical trials has not been procured from them and, hence, might be of questionable quality, compromised or spurious. However, Ahmedabad-based Zydus perceives this as an attempt to malign its reputation and discredit its achievements in making expensive drugs accessible at affordable prices in the Indian market. On November 24, Roche wrote a letter to the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI), urging the regulator to intervene and probe the issue. On February 7, it reiterated the request. News18 has seen the letter titled Import of Innovators reference biological drug Perjeta for clinical trials in India. Calling it a matter related to patient safety, Roche has requested DCGI, the countrys apex health regulatory agency, to inquire whether Zydus had sourced the entire volume of Perjeta (Pertuzumab) used for conducting its clinical trials from authorised sources. A top government official privy to the development confirmed the receipt of the complaint and told News18 that the matter is already under investigation and internal meetings are underway. Zydus spokesperson, in an email to News18, denied the allegations, calling them baseless and unfounded. The Ahmedabad-based company said that it remains committed to sharing with the regulators, relevant information as and when required. Zydus has been successfully conducting trials and introducing critical NCEs, Novel Biologics and Biosimilars, many of which are first in India and first in the world products. In conducting clinical trials, all the necessary regulations and processes have been followed with regards to ethics and safety. We remain committed to sharing with the regulators, relevant information as and when required. These allegations are baseless and unfounded. Despite the efforts made to malign and discredit us, we remain committed to enabling access to Biosimilars of expensive medicines that cancer patients in India can ill-afford. Multi-Centre Trial on 268 Patients According to the clinical trial protocol, available on the Clinical Trial Registry, India (CTRI), the trial received regulatory clearance from DCGI on December 31, 2021 for patients suffering from malignant neoplasm of breast of unspecified site. It refers to a type of cancerous growth in the breast where the specific location within the breast is not specified. While the comparator agent or drug to be used in comparison in the clinical trial is Roches brand Perjeta, the intervention drug being tested is Zyduss drug labelled as ZRC-3277. The CTRI shows that Zydus managed to achieve the final enrolment of 268 patients, with the trial starting in September 2022. The multicentre trial, as per CTRI, took place at more than 40 locations across India including All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre, Mumbai-based Tata Memorial Hospital and KR Hospital in Mysore Medical College & Research Institute. Allegations and Solutions Roche, in an e-mail to News18, has highlighted the mismatch of timelines in the procurement of their drug Perjeta for conducting clinical trials. The companys procurement data shows that Zydus may not have procured the drug from the originator company during the starting phase of the trial. Zydus had procured 480 vials of the original innovator reference product (Perjeta) from Roche Pharma India in January 2023, the company spokesperson said, adding that Zydus did not buy the trial vials in 2022 from Roche. The clinical trial, as per CTRI, started in September 2022. It therefore raises important questions whether the reference products imported in 2022 were of questionable quality (possibly compromised / spurious), what supply chain norms (safety, cold chain etc.) were followed, and the credibility of the source from where the earlier imports were made in 2022, the spokesperson said. According to Dr Amitav Banerjee, professor, community medicine at Dr DY Patil Medical College, Pune, The matter is an open and shut case. The regulator must ask Zydus to clarify the batch numbers and from where they picked up the product and imported it. Roche, in turn, should verify these details from their authorised dealers records. Everything will be clear in a matter of a day and it wont require a long investigation. Banerjee formerly headed the ethical committees of clinical trials at Pune-based National Institute of Virology. Presently, he is the chairperson of the ethical committee at Armed Forces Medical College, Pune. The DCGI should refer this matter to the ethical committees to review the trial. Once they ask the company, they are bound to declare the source of the comparator drug. According to Dr Anant Bhan, Researcher, Bioethics and Health Policy: The controversy around the clinical trial involves multiple facets, including issues around MNC-domestic pharma competition, regulatory and ethics oversight, good clinical practices. Bhan added that for the sake of science and credibility, the regulator should examine the issues raised, and respond formally and on priority with transparency. News18 sought an official comment from DCGI, but hasnt received a response so far. The report will be updated if and when the DCGI responds. Tensions sparked in Uttar Pradeshs Bareilly on Friday after followers of an Islamic cleric and Ittehad-e-Millat Council chief Tauqeer Raza Khan gathered on the streets following the incident in Haldwani the previous night. Sporadic incidents of stone pelting were reported during the day following which, police and paramilitary personnel were deployed in large numbers. The cleric was released after being detained by the Uttar Pradesh police earlier today. According to a Hindustan Times report, On Thursday, Raza had given a call for Jail Bharo asking his supporters to offer their arrest to the police over the Gyanvapi mosque row. Meanwhile, the demolition of the madrasa in Haldwani sparked another row and hundreds of people gathered on the streets after the Friday prayers around 2.30 pm. Markets in different parts of the city remained shut since the morning. Around 1,000 police personnel were on the ground to maintain the law and order situation and have been deployed at important intersections, mixed populated areas, and entry and exit points of the city. Uttar Pradesh director general of Police (DGP) Prashant Kumar noted that an alert was issued in the state after the Haldwani incident. He further said that all district police chiefs had been asked to remain cautious and that deployments were in place in the districts bordering Uttarakhand. #WATCH | Uttar Pradesh | A large crowd gathered in Bareilly, following Chief of Ittehad-e-Millat Council, Bareilly Sharif, Maulana Tauqeer Raza's call of 'Jail Bharo' over Gyanvapi matter.Raza has been detained by Police. pic.twitter.com/ekWk26CJ6T ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) February 9, 2024 Raza Khan on Thursday said he would give himself up for arrest in protest of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanaths statement in the Assembly that Muslims should wilfully give up their claim on Gyanvapi mosque in Varanasi and Shahi Idgah mosque in Mathura. A popular dialogue from Allu Arjun-starrer blockbuster Pushpa, a night drive on Mumbais newly inaugurated Atal Setu and several motivational quotes. Mauris Noronhas Instagram profile looks like an ordinary one. Noronha, who identifies himself as a philanthropist and social worker, is currently under the spotlight after the chilling murder of former Shiv Sena-UBT corporator Abhishek Ghosalkar during a Facebook Live on Thursday night. The man who faced a battery of cases, killed himself after the murder of Shiv Sena leader Abhishek Ghosalkar, an incident that has sent shock waves across Maharashtra. In his last Instagram post, Noronha could be seen smiling at the camera. In the background, a popular dialogue from Pushpa movie could be heard, Pushpa name sunke flower samjhe kya, fire hai mein. The text accompanying the post read: YOU CANT DEFEAT A MAN who doesnt care about pain, loss, disrespect, heartbreak & rejection. Other posts on his Instagram profile feature a drive through the Atal Setu and a motivational quote that said, Life will always be hardest when ure crossing over to a new level. Dont get discouraged. Mumbai Police sources said that there have been cases of cheating, attempt to murder, threat and rape against Moris in the past. He was also arrested in connection with these allegations. Noronhas victim, Abhishek Ghosalkar, is the son of Shiv Sena-UB leader Vinod Ghosalkar. He was shot thrice at point blank, a crime that was captured on camera. The incident took place at Noronhas office in Mumbais IC Colony. Sources at Mumbai Police said that the weapon used in the firing is suspected to be illegal. Mauris and Abhishek Ghosalkar had a political feud since the last three years. The accused had emerged as a local hero for doing social work during Covid and wanted to contest elections, however, Ghosalkar was against him contesting polls as his wife was the corporator from the constituency recently. According to reports, Mauris had a cheating case against him for which he spent 90 days in jail and he felt that it was Ghosalkar behind his arrests. The Facebook live was apparently arranged to resolve their personal enmity and clarify that they had come together, police said. According to a Hindustan Times report, Mauris was trying to enter the Uddhav Thackeray faction of the Shiv Sena. Both Noronha and Ghosalkar apparently wanted to contest from Ward No 1. On Thursday, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut claimed that Mauris Noronha had met Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde at his official residence four days ago. In a post on X, Raut tweeted a photograph, purportedly showing Noronha with chief minister Shinde. The Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha member also claimed that Shinde had invited Noronha to join his party. (with agency inputs) Amitabh Bachchan and Rani Mukerjis iconic film Black has completed 19 years and on this special occasion the makers have released the film on OTT platform, Netflix. Ayesha Kapur who essayed young Michelle McNally in Sanjay Leela Bhansalis cult film has expressed her thoughts on the same, especially after it was pulled down from YouTube. Speaking with Hindustan Times, Ayesha Kapur stated that she accidentally stumbled upon Black in the New Releases category on the streaming service. She exclaimed, I was like whats happening? But more viewers will see it, including my friends from college in America. I was surprised that it wasnt on any platform for the longest time. I think just being on OTT makes it more accessible. The 29-year old actress who received acclaim for Black also added that the film had its impact all over the world, It had affected the blind and deaf community too. Its become a cult film even in Korea. Its crazy to think where all this film was travelled and the impact it made on people from different demographics, she stated. Ayesha Kapur further recalled,I hadnt been exposed to Bollywood at all. So I didnt know exactly what I was getting into. I didnt have that star complex or exposure and I could really play that part. I realised how intense playing Michelle was only later. But I fell so much in love with acting through the process. They didnt treat me like a nine-year-old. They included me in the creative process helping me shine, and bringing out the best in me. Directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Black unfolds a poignant narrative that delves into the profound relationship between a deaf-blind girl, Michelle McNally (played by Rani Mukerji), and her dedicated teacher, Debraj Sahai (portrayed by Amitabh Bachchan). Set against the backdrop of an unconventional bond that transcends barriers of communication and understanding, the film navigates through the complexities of human emotions with unparalleled sensitivity and depth. After a hiatus of 16 years, the dynamic duo Jaggesh and Guruprasad are making a triumphant return to the silver screen with their upcoming movie Ranganayaka. Directed by Guruprasad himself, the film features Jaggesh in the lead role and promises to captivate audiences with its unique storyline. Adding to the anticipation, the filmmakers have unveiled the first song of the movie, titled Gaali Tangaali, composed by Anoop Seelin. This melodious track, which ingeniously teaches the Kannada alphabet, has quickly gained viral status, garnering immense praise from viewers. Scheduled for release on March 8, the film is produced by AR Vikyath under the Vikhyath Chithra Productions banner and will be distributed by Zee Studios. In an exclusive interview with News18, music director Anoop Seelin expressed his excitement about the song, noting its educational yet entertaining appeal, especially for children learning the Kannada alphabet. Seelin believes that the songs popularity signifies its acceptance as a fresh and engaging approach to language learning. With the movies shooting nearing completion, anticipation for Ranganayaka continues to soar. The movie revolves around a theatre artist and promises to offer a blend of political satire and period drama. The recently released Gaali Tangaali song, featuring peppy tunes and vibrant choreography by Jaggesh, adds to the films allure. Written by Sharadasutha and performed by J Anoop Seelin and Muniraju, the songs lively energy is captured by cinematographer Samrat Ashok Gautham, with editing by Umesh RB. As the film gears up for its theatrical release, the timing couldnt be more auspicious, coinciding with the festive occasions of Maha Shivaratri and Womens Day. Set to hit screens ahead of lead actor Jaggeshs birthday on March 17, Ranganayaka is poised to enthral audiences with its intriguing storyline and stellar performances. With its unique blend of historical context and contemporary relevance, the film aims to transport viewers to the Vijayanagara period while offering insightful commentary on todays political landscape. Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) John Lee and his wife extend festive greetings in south China's Hong Kong, Feb. 9, 2024. Lee on Friday delivered a Chinese New Year message, wishing the people of Hong Kong a full house of happiness and harmony in the Year of the Dragon. (Xinhua) HONG KONG, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) John Lee on Friday delivered a Chinese New Year message, wishing the people of Hong Kong a full house of happiness and harmony in the Year of the Dragon. "The dragon is an auspicious symbol signifying nobility and good luck. As we welcome the Year of the Dragon, Hong Kong is nurturing fresh vitality and prosperity. We will seize each and every new opportunity, showcase the charm of our city, and write a bright new chapter for Hong Kong," Lee said. The chief executive said the Chinese New Year is a time for reunions, a time for families and friends to get together, and cherish the joy and warmth of the festive season. "We share our wishes for children to grow strong and healthy and for grown-ups to be blessed with good fortune," Lee said. Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) John Lee purchases flowers at a market in south China's Hong Kong, Feb. 9, 2024. Lee on Friday delivered a Chinese New Year message, wishing the people of Hong Kong a full house of happiness and harmony in the Year of the Dragon. (Xinhua) Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya has released in cinemas today, February 9, and it reveals Janhvi Kapoor has a vital role in the film. The film, directed by Amit Joshi and Aradhana Sah, stars Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon in the lead. As the trailer has already revealed, the film revolves around a man falling in love with a robot. While News18 Showsha has given the film a 3-star rating in our review, we can also confirm that the film has an interesting cameo by Janhvi Kapoor. Warning, Spoilers Ahead: Although we cannot reveal many details about the film, we can tell you that Janhvi Kapoor appears in the film as Shahid Kapoors colleague in the film. She plays the role of a robotic engineer that has recently joined Shahids company in the film. She is seen hitting on Shahid, asking him out for a cup of coffee while Kritis robotic character watches from afar. Would this mean that Shahid and Janhvi could team up for a film? Youll have to wait and watch. As per the News18 Showsha review, Shahid and Kriti delivered impressive performances. Shahid shares a scintillating onscreen chemistry with Kriti. So and filmmakers, please take note it would be interesting to see the duo in a regular new-age love story with no preachy message, a genre that we all have been yearning for a while now, the review read. Kriti plays the part with a lot of earnestness. She steers clear of any robotic caricature but still manages to play a robot with human-like expressions and mannerisms. Its a tough space to play around with and so, Kriti deserves applause, the review added. Directed by debut directors Amit Joshi and Aradhana Sah, the film has a runtime of 143.15 minutes, or 2 hours, 23 minutes, and 15 seconds. It has been granted U/A certificate by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Bollywood Hungama recently reported that CBFC cut a scene where the characters are intimate, making it 25% shorter. They removed 9 seconds, reducing the original 36-second sequence to 27 seconds. Besides this, the CBFC also changed the word Daru to Drink in the second half of the film. Get ready for an emotional rollercoaster as the highly anticipated South Korean drama, Queen of Tears, is set to stream on Netflix in March, promising a blend of romance and conflict. Created by the writer Park Ji-eun and brought to life by directors Jang Young-woo and Kim Hee-won, the series features talented actors like Kim Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Ji-won in the lead. Recently, tvN shared charming character posters, offering a glimpse into the roles of Soo-hyun and Ji-won in this upcoming drama. Kim Ji-won steps into the shoes of Hong Hae In, a wealthy chaebol heiress set to inherit a supermarket chain, while Kim Soo-Hyun plays Baek Hyun Woo, a legal director set to become her husband. Since the cast announcement, the series has already earned its place in the hearts of KDrama lovers. In the upcoming Netflix series, Hong Hae, who is the third-generation heiress of the wealthy Queens Group, falls in love and marries Baek Hyun Woo, the son of a small-town mayor, despite their unrelated backgrounds. The series will introduce a crisis that will test their marriage. The character posters offer a glimpse into their complex relationship. Hong Hae In shows confidence as she promises Baek Hyun Woo, Only believe in me. Ill never let tears flow from your eyes. In response, Baek Hyun Woo states, To trust only yourself? Im crazy for believing that word. View this post on Instagram A post shared by tvN (@tvn_drama) View this post on Instagram A post shared by tvN (@tvn_drama) Earlier, the creators of Queen of Tears offered a glimpse of behind-the-scenes of the actors camaraderie by sharing photos and a video from the first script reading session of the South Korean drama. The session featured a talented cast, including Kim Soo-hyun, Kim Ji-won, Lee Joo-bin, Park Sung-hoon, Kwak Dong-yeon, Lee Joobeen and others. The actors showed passion and dedication as they discussed their roles. While Kim Ji-won plays Hong Hae Ins character and Kim Soo-hyun as Baek Hyun Woo, Park Sung-hoon takes the role of Yoon Eun-sung, an investment expert with a deep connection with the Queens Group. On the other hand, Kwak Dong-yeon plays the character of Hong Soo-chul, who is Hong Hae Ins younger brother, while Lee Joo-bin brings warmth and joy to the series as Cheon Da-hye and Hong Soo-chuls wife. View this post on Instagram A post shared by | Queen of Tears (@queenoftears_tvn) Kim Ji Won rose to fame with her roles in Descendants of the Sun, Fight for My Way, My Liberation Notes and more. On the other hand, Kim So Hyun was part of hit K dramas like My Love from the Stars, The Producers, Its Okay to Not Be Okay and more. Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya review: In 2013, Spike Jonze released Her that featured Joaquin Phoenix and the raspy voice of Scarlett Johansson. Set in near-future, it stupendously and poignantly explored an unusual relationship between a man and an operating system upgrade with virtual assistance and artificial intelligence personified through a female voice. The ending left almost everyone teary-eyed, broken and thinking. Cut to 2024, back home, we have Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya starring Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon. Once again, it is themed on an unconventional romantic relationship (no, we arent drawing an analogy between the two beyond this because that would be borderline blasphemous) but between a robot scientist and a humanoid robot. It is one thing to be bizarre and truth be told, bizarre can also be exhilarating. We also know that love stories arent thrillers and that they follow a straitjacketed template. But Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya is an uninspiring hodgepodge of lacklustre ambition and dreariness. Set in the present, the film begins with Aryan, a robot scientist who is working towards launching an advanced version of a human robot. His e-robotics company works closely with Urmila, an established scientist based in the USA, who also happens to be Aryans maternal aunt. With the hope of making him a part of a new program, she invites him to the USA where he meets Sifra for the first time. Sifra is Urmilas manager and a super intelligent female robot automation. However, Aryan is unaware of the same. Love blossoms between the two as this is the first time he has found a compatible partner. But Aryan is soon left heart-broken when Urmila breaks it to him that shes just a humanoid robot and that he was just a part of an experiment to test the human spirit of Sifra. Back home, Aryans mother is obsessed and panic-stricken about getting him married. To put an end to his mothers woes, he decides to make Sifra meet his family. Having already fallen in love with her, he goes ahead with his plan of marrying her. How Sifra adjusts to his eccentric Indian family and how their love evolves against all conventions form the crux of the Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya. The essence of the story can best be described with a question Aryan poses to a character (a cameo essayed by a new-age star) about choosing between an imperfect human being with real feelings and a robot thats just programming. But did this paper thin plot really need a 2 hour 23 minutes long film? Not really. Sitting through it almost feels like a snooze fest with the plot running haywire with no real end goal. The makers Amit Joshi and Aradhana Sah spend a lot of time establishing the job profiles of Aryan and Urmila and other peripheral sub-plots including Aryans family dynamics and his equation with the regular trope of a funny best friend. Its only post-interval that the narrative finally dives into its core theme. Shahid returns to showcasing his impressive moves on the big screen after more than eight years but the songs dont do justice to him. In fact, theres not even a single song that stays back with you and what a big disappointment that is for a film that is being billed as a light-hearted romantic comedy! In one scene, Urmila tells Aryan, Itna hyper kyun ho raha hai? And that perfectly sums up Shahids act in the film. What could have been a delightful comeback by the original chocolate boy to a breezy rom-com space becomes a dull and unfunny story replete with hamming. However, he shares a scintillating onscreen chemistry with Kriti. So and filmmakers, please take note it would be interesting to see the duo in a regular new-age love story with no preachy message, a genre that we all have been yearning for a while now. Coming back to Sifra, Kriti plays the part with a lot of earnestness. She steers clear of any robotic caricature but still manages to play a robot with human-like expressions and mannerisms. Its a tough space to play around with and so, Kriti deserves applause. In the climax, we see Sifras humanoid robot suddenly malfunctioning and becoming an almost sinister entity trying to annihilate and burn down everything around her. And to be honest, you may be amused and wonder if she has been possessed by an evil spirit but it brings out a new performance streak from the actor that Kriti is. It would be quite fun to see her play a larger-than-life super-villain posing a threat to the worldly order. It should also be a reminder to this National Award winning actor to not be succumbing to mediocrity. The same can be said for an artist of the calibre of Shahid too. Veteran star Dharmendra Singh Deol and ace actor Dimple Kapadia have also been wasted. Dharmendra, especially, doesnt have much or anything to do for that matter. And its even more disappointing considering the impression his character in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani left. Dimples Urmila, on the other hand, suffers due to a half-cooked character sketch. While on the outset, she seems like an integral part of the narrative but Urmmila abruptly takes a backseat as the film progresses. Even Rajesh Kumar and Rakesh Bedi are under-utilised. Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya could have been a fresh, novel, out-of-the box narrative that could set a precedent and kick-start the genre of science fiction in mainstream Hindi cinema. But it turns out to be an unexciting, puzzling and a bit of a jarring experience. Nonetheless, its a good looking film. When you look at a map from a distance, there are all these massive landscapes and landmasses, which dominate the vision; in the periphery are the forgotten blue and green dotted islands. Most of the time, they are deprived of development, population, and sometimes even basic infrastructure. Their deprivation is masked by the argument of environmental conservation, even as the population suffers. Therefore, to amend that, the Indian government has planned a Rs 3,600-crore-plus infrastructure upgrade for the Lakshadweep islands to transform them into a tourist hub. The development includes the establishment of port facilities at Androth, Kalpeni, and Kadmat islands, as well as the construction of beachfront and peripheral roads at Kadmat Island (East), Agatti Island (East), and Kavaratti Island. A total of 13 projects have been identified for the 36 Lakshadweep islands, which cover an area of 32 square kilometres and are located 220-440 km off the Kerala coast in the Arabian Sea. Similarly, the Nicobar Island chain is also set for a huge makeover, with the Greater Nicobar development project undergoing final checks and clearances. The project was announced on May 25, 2021, and construction on the first phase will start by the end of this year. This is a major pivot in government policy to develop infrastructure in the island regions. These island chains are crucial to our naval defence and security. They are also major tourist destinations with picturesque islands, which have been largely untapped. They also lie on the most heavily sailed international maritime trade routes. However, despite the advantages, there have been no major investments to boost the presence of these islands until now. In the past, the Indian government strived to preserve the islands by implementing environmental restrictions and regulating their societal and economic affairs. This policy successfully maintained the islands pristine nature and kept their nationalist citizens in equilibrium. However, as times have changed, the people of the islands now aspire to reap the benefits of the governments development initiatives, aligning with the rest of the countrys trajectory. That time is now and the governments bid to develop these islands is a major step in the right direction. Overseeing in the West: Lakshadweep The Modi government is focusing on developing port connectivity, tourism infrastructure, and amenities on the islands, including Lakshadweep, to promote domestic tourism and generate employment. Lakshadweep, Indias smallest union territory, has become a prominent topic of conversation and a must-see destination, particularly among Indian tourists. The islands gained widespread attention after Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit, where he shared captivating images, creating a buzz across the nation. However, derogatory comments from Maldivian ministers led to a diplomatic row and calls for an Indian boycott of the island nation. During his January visit to the islands, PM Modi dedicated several key projects to the nation, including a submarine optical fibre cable connecting Kochi and Lakshadweep, a low temperature thermal desalination plant for Kadmat, a drinking water distribution project, and a battery-backed solar power project. The Indian government has proposed constructing a new airfield on Minicoy, one of the 36 islands in Lakshadweep. The envisioned airfield aims to serve both commercial and military aircraft, with plans for a joint facility capable of accommodating fighter jets, military transport planes, and commercial flights. This airstrips development aims to boost tourism around Lakshadweep and enhance Indias surveillance capabilities over the Arabian Sea and Indian Pacific Sea. Currently, the only airport in Lakshadweep is Agatti, located approximately 300 kilometres away from Minicoy. The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for renovating the primary healthcare facility at Kalpeni and constructing model Anganwadi centres in the islands of Androth, Chetlat, Kadamat, Agatti, and Minicoy. Last year, to promote tourism to the islands, the Modi government hosted a G20 summit there. Science20 had the opening session of the Thematic Conference on Universal Holistic Health at Bangaram Atoll. It was one of the 60 destinations of the G20 summit held across India to showcase its diversity. The recent push has attracted private hotel chains such as Taj, aiming to open additional locations to establish opulent accommodations. The Taj Group, in particular, unveiled plans to introduce new hotels on the Suheli and Kadmat islands by 2026, with development overseen by the Indian Hotels Company (IHCL). Airlines such as SpiceJet have also announced their intention to initiate flight operations to Lakshadweep, further underlining the regions growing connectivity and importance. Currently, Lakshadweep possesses the necessary infrastructure to cater to its 60,000 residents and a limited number of tourists. In 2021, the island welcomed 13,500 tourists, and this number increased to 22,800 the following year. The Eastern Gateway: Andaman and Nicobar The Great Nicobar Island project, a Rs 75,000 crore infrastructure endeavour, encompasses an International Container Transhipment Terminal (ICTT) with the capacity to handle 14.2 million TEUs (unit of cargo capacity) eventually, a greenfield international airport capable of handling peak hour traffic of 4,000 passengers both ways, a township, and a gas and solar power plant. The Shipping Ministry of India plans to commence construction of the first phase of the international trans-shipment port at Galathea Bay on Great Nicobar Island in the Bay of Bengal this year. Developed on a public-private partnership (PPP) basis, the proposed international container trans-shipment port is estimated to cost Rs 44,000 crore. It will be constructed in four phases with a total capacity of 16 million TEUs. The entire port is expected to be operational by 2058. Phase 1, slated to be operational by 2028, will handle nearly 4 million TEUs. The township will comprise commercial, industrial, and residential zones, with a significant portion of land allocated for various tourism projects and activities. A total of 166 square kilometres will be designated for development, with 72 square kilometres allocated for the first of three phases in which the project will be implemented, according to plans discussed by the EAC. Over the last 5-6 years, the central government has approved funds totalling Rs 95,000 crore for infrastructure development on the island. According to Lt Governor Admiral DK Joshi, who is also the vice-chairman of the Islands Development Agency, two more greenfield airports are in the pipeline, including one in Port Blair (in addition to the existing Veer Savarkar International Airport) and another in Great Nicobar. For enhanced inter-island connectivity to promote tourism, the Lt Governor stated that operators have been selected for three seaports at Long Island, Shaheed Dweep, Swaraj Dweep, and for the UDAN scheme at Diglipur, Car Nicobar, Campbell Bay, and Great Nicobar. Security and Strategic Importance The strategic importance of these island groups, positioned along the busiest international maritime trade routes in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), is self-evident. Lakshadweep has gained strategic significance in recent years due to Chinas rise and its efforts to expand its presence in the Indian Ocean Region. On April 7, 2021, the USS John Paul Jones, a guided-missile destroyer, sailed just off the coast of Lakshadweep. This proximity underscored the archipelagos strategic importance. It is a matter of concern that major world powers are vying to demonstrate their military, diplomatic, and political presence to establish a foothold in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Lakshadweep can serve India as a Strategic Sentinel, Maritime Guardian, and Diplomatic Asset in the Indian Ocean. Lakshadweep islands can function as an Indian naval base in the Arabian Sea to safeguard our Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), combat smuggling and sea piracy, monitor Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs), counter Chinas influence, and facilitate joint training with friendly foreign countries like the QUAD. Indian defence establishments in Lakshadweep have been bolstered over the years. Moreover, India has stepped up surveillance and anti-piracy action up to the Red Sea. This provides more impetus for the development of Lakshadweep, as it can act as an extended base to provide military facilities and logistics support to the Indian Navy and other friendly nations. For the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, their strategic location enables India to play a crucial role in the region both in disaster relief efforts (as during the 2004 tsunami) and in addressing maritime security threats. With these islands as their base, India, along with other countries, can act as a net security provider to the region and the SLOCs. Fortunately, the basin countries of the Andaman Sea have largely resolved their issues amicably, and maritime boundaries are well-defined. Situated at the entrance of the Malacca Strait and spanning one of the worlds most crucial trade chokepoints, these islands serve as a valuable strategic asset. In the developing 21st-century maritime competition between India and China, these islands can play a pivotal role. The Malacca Strait, running between Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore, connects the Andaman Sea of the Indian Ocean with the South China Sea, making it one of the busiest shipping channels globally. Nearly 70,000 out of the 1,20,000 ships sailing through the Indian Ocean pass through the Strait of Malacca. During peacetime, threats and challenges arise from illegal migration, human trafficking, poaching, and subversive activities from the seas, which, while not prevalent, cannot be ignored. The security responsibility for the islands rests with the Andaman and Nicobar Command established in 2001, Indias first and only tri-service theatre command which was never pursued to its logical end, the Coast Guard, and the Andaman Police with its small maritime component. All these organisations are undergoing strengthening as part of a long-term Capability Development Plan based on infrastructure enhancement and force buildup. The islands also hold immense geostrategic significance as potential launch pads in both symmetric and asymmetric conflicts, serving as entry and exit points to the Pacific Ocean from the Indian Ocean, and offering a vast Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) rich in natural resources. They also play a crucial role in controlling Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs) during conflicts and serve as a means for India to counterbalance Chinese influence by developing its eastern Indian Ocean territories and providing military facilities for logistics support to navies from friendly Quad countries. Further collaborations such as with the recent deployment of the Royal Navys HMS Tamar underscore the growing importance of Indo-Pacific cooperation between India and the United Kingdom, as part of their broader defence and security relationship. Chinas significant investments in port modernisation projects in countries along the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) pose a threat to Indian interests, particularly in and around the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Examples include Chinas funding and development of new ports and the modernisation of existing ones, such as the Trilateral Highway project in Myanmar and the Hambantota port in Sri Lanka, leased to China for ninety-nine years under its Maritime Silk Road initiative, which illustrates Beijings debt-trap diplomacy. Thus, a renewed focus on the development of the island chain is a strategic necessity. The strategic geographical location of the islands offers India a tactical advantage during conflicts, potentially serving as unsinkable aircraft carriers away from the mainland coastline. There is significant potential for India to develop dual-use facilities for both military and civilian purposes, including upgrading airfields and naval jetties to accommodate increased traffic and larger aircraft. Conclusion The recent initiatives by the Indian government to revamp the infrastructure of the Lakshadweep and Nicobar Islands mark a significant shift in policy, recognising their strategic importance in the evolving geopolitical landscape. With their pivotal location along crucial trade routes and potential as maritime security assets, these islands offer India a unique advantage in countering regional challenges, particularly Chinas expanding influence. As development progresses, a well-coordinated approach encompassing both military and civilian interests will be crucial in harnessing the full potential of these island chains, not only for Indias security but also for asserting its maritime influence in the broader Indian Ocean Region. Mumbai, Delhi, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat are the four top states that account for 70 per cent of the total direct tax collections in the country. Even out of these four states, Mumbai alone contributes one-third of the entire collection. Imagine if the people of Mumbai demand that since Mumbai contributes more than even Maharashtra, it should be treated separately, and its money should be invested only in Mumbai? Or if the people of Bengaluru say that since the city contributes more in tax than the rest of Karnataka, it should be treated separately? I even wonder what if men of Karnataka protest against women of Karnataka getting free bus rides just because the men there pay more taxes than women. The nation never thought of such things, but recently, the Congress government in Karnataka cooked up a new issue of the Centre discriminating with southern states while allocating money. The tax devolution criteria work on the rich states pay for poor states principle. The devolution formula is based on six factors in which 45 per cent (the highest) weightage goes to income distance, 15 per cent to area, 15 per cent to population of the state, 12.5 per cent to demographic performance, 10 per cent to forest and ecology and 2.5 per cent to the tax and fiscal efforts of the state. According to the 14th Finance Commission, out of Rs 100, Karnataka used to get Rs 4.713. Still, seeing Karnatakas overall performance improved, the 14th and 15th Finance Commission revised the numbers to Rs 3.646 and Rs 3.647, respectively. The argument of BJP doing anyaay (injustice) should be thrown into the dustbin immediately because under the 13th Finance Commission (2010-2014), Karnataka received Rs 61,691 crore, followed by Rs 1,51,309 crore under the 14th FC (2015-2019), Rs 1,29,854 crore (already in the last four years) under the 15th FC (2020-2026) and this number will reach Rs 1,74,339 crore at the end of the fifth year. Talking about the grants received by Karnataka from the Centre, under the UPA government (from 2004 till 2014), Karnataka received just Rs 60,780 crore, while under the NDA government in the last ten years (till January 2024), the state got Rs 2,08,832 crore which accounts for about 243 per cent increase. Apart from all this, Karnataka will also receive Rs 18,005 crore as additional grants-in-aid till March 31, 2024. Karnataka has also received Rs 6,280 crore as a 50-year interest-free loan. In 2013, the UPA government set up a committee under the RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan which recommended the inclusion of the backwardness index to determine the allocation of funds to the states. It was decided by the UPA government that 60 per cent of the Central funds would automatically be transferred to the poorest states. Data shows that using this same formula of fund allocation, Karnatakas share of funds was cut down from 4.39 per cent to 3.73 per cent. In the same formula, maximum weightage was given to the states population and then to the area of the state, making the allocation a bit random. In 2013, the allocation of funds also became a hot political topic as Nitish Kumar requested the UPA to list Bihar under a special category state to receive more funds and in return, he would support the UPA in Bihar elections and Lok Sabha elections. However, with Rajans new formula, Bihar lost the tag of special category state and it was granted to seven Northeastern states, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. (Source: New backwardness index to determine funds allocation to states) States get money from the Centre for development, but implementing freebies in the name of development and then crying for lack of funds will trigger the Finance Ministry. The pattern of crying for funds is the same amongst all those state governments implementing freebies for better performance in upcoming elections, be it Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh or Karnataka. Gone are the days of dividing the nation by caste or language. So, let the tax-dividing nation debate be buried for once and forever. Ritwik Mehta is Founder, Niti Tantra and a Political Strategist. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views. Hitting out at the Opposition for its claim that the Modi government was targeting their leaders using probe agencies, former Janata Dal (United) president Rajiv Ranjan Singh Lalan on Friday said CBI and ED never came after leaders of his party, including Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar when it was out of the ruling NDA. He also said while former prime minister Manmohan Singh was a clean person, those around him were involved in corruption and mismanagement. He claimed Singh was a mute spectator to the things going around him. Participating in the debate on a resolution moved by the government on the White Paper on the Indian economy, Lalan Singh said the Opposition should have used data to counter what has been mentioned in the document but it chose to do otherwise. He said his party was out of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and its leader Nitish Kumar was an anchor of the opposition parties. But neither he nor Kumar were targeted by CBI or ED. If you indulge in corruption, youll have to pay the price. You will get a thorn, not a sweet mango, he said. After quitting the BJP-led NDA nearly two years ago, the JD(U) recently rejoined the ruling dispensation. The MP from Munger in Bihar also rejected claims of the Opposition that the white paper was aimed at tarnishing its image. He said facts and figures have been placed before the House hence there was no question of tarnishing someones image. Former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddiqui who resigned from the Congress party on Thursday after 48 years of association, is all set to join the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar confirmed the news saying that the former Congress leader will join NCP on Saturday. He also said that some more leaders is set to join the NCP on Sunday. In a conversation with reporters on Friday, the Deputy CM said, Baba Siddique will join NCP on February 10, evening, and on February 11, some more will join the party. On Thursday, Congress MLA Baba Siddique, representing the high profile Bandra area in Mumbai announced his resignation from the Congress. A prominent minority face of the Mumbai Congress, Siddique also served as a minister when the Congress-NCP coalition was in power. Taking to X, Siddique said, I joined the Indian National Congress party as a young teenager and it has been a significant journey lasting 48 years. Today I resign from the primary membership of the Indian National Congress Party with immediate effect. While thanking everyone who has been a part of his journey he said that theres a lot that he would have liked to express but some things are better left unsaid. The move came days after the Election Commission of India recognised the Ajit Pawar faction as the real National Congress Party (NCP). Earlier in January this year, Congress leader Milind Deora resigned from Congress, ending his familys 55-year-old relationship with the grand old party. (with inputs from ANI) Following the murder of Shiv Sena UBT leader Abhishek Ghosalkar, opposition parties are blaming the Eknath Shinde-led Maha Yuti government for the deteriorating law and order situation in Maharashtra, while also demanding the resignation of state home minister Devendra Fadnavis. Ghosalkar was shot dead in suburban Mumbai on Thursday evening during a Facebook Live by local activist Mauris Noronha, who also ended his own life. The incident came less than a week after BJP MLA Ganpat Gaikwad shot and injured Mahesh Gaikwad, a leader from Eknath Shindes Shiv Sena, at a police station in Ulhasnagar, Thane district. However, while speaking with the media, deputy chief minister and home minister Fadnavis slammed the opposition for politicising the murder of Abhishek Ghosalkar. The killing of a young leader Abhishek Ghosalkar is very serious and unfortunate. It has happened out of personal enmity. They (Abhishek Ghosalkar and Mauris Noronha) were seen together on many occasions. Their posters were put up together even in 2024. This must have happened out of some differences. The police have come across some of the reasons and that will be made public soon, said Fadnavis. This incident has nothing to do with the law and order situation in the state as alleged by the opposition. The other deputy chief minister of the state, Ajit Pawar, described the murder as unfortunate and wrong. While reacting to a media question in Pune, Pawar said, Such incidents should not happen anywhere. Both were seen having friendly conversations during Facebook Live, which also suggests that they were known to each other and had a very cordial relationship. More details will emerge in the police investigation. Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) leader Sanjay Raut recently started a series of daily posts on social media site X, with photographs of chief minister Eknath Shinde along with people having criminal records or backgrounds. Raut termed the Maha Yuti government Goonda Raj. There is no fear left of the law and police among goons who have a political backing, and hence such instances are happening in the state and the home minister of the state is nowhere to be seen, he said. Ghosalkar, a 40-year-old former corporator from the Shiv Sena UBT, was killed by Noronha while they were doing a Facebook Live in Borivli West. According to the police, Noronha fired five rounds at Ghosalkar and then shot himself. Several MPs from BJP on Friday said the violence in Uttarakhands Haldwani appeared to be a conspiracy and warrants strict action against the guilty, while a Shiv Sena lawmaker termed it a result of polarisation created by the saffron party for electoral gain. Asked about the Thursday violence, BJP Rajya Sabha MP Harnath Yadav said, The incident in Haldwani is a conspiracy. Bombs, country pistols, and other weapons were used, and government officials and police were attacked. There should be an order to shoot rioters at sight There is no need to be lenient with them. The MP from Uttar Pradesh said the Uttarakhand government should search every house, and take action against the perpetrators. BJP MP and former Uttarakhand chief minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank said the anti-encroachment drives to remove illegal structures is not a new thing. Unfortunately, the attack on police personnel (in Haldwani) was sad. As the CM (Pushkar Singh Dhami) has said, strict action will be taken against the culprits, he said. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi blamed the violence on polarisation created by BJP. When the intention is just polarisation, this is what happens curfews are imposed, look at the incidents in Manipur. In every state, BJP has created a situation where it will benefit from polarisation. Their tried and tested model is to polarise people for votes, she said. I am hoping the Home Minister will take cognisance, Chaturvedi said, adding, if the police have been attacked it is shameful, it shows how hooliganism is prevailing in BJP-ruled states. Rajya Sabha MP Brij Lal termed the razing of the madrasa after which the violence erupted a just move. Removing encroachment is right. Even on the mountains they have made mazars (shrines) he said. He added, Violence cannot be tolerated. Their ring leaders who planned it should be jailed under National Security Act and the Uttarakhand government will definitely do it. There is a conspiracy. It wouldnt have happened on its own. He also appreciated Uttarakhand Police for not resorting to firing. BJP MP Ashok Bajpai called the incident unfortunate and a probable conspiracy. The incident is very unfortunate, it looks like a conspiracy because the encroachment was removed based on the order of the Supreme Court. Stone pelting, petrol bombs, and firing was done at a large scale. Police personnel have been hurt, strict action needs to be taken, he said. He also alleged that the opposition parties were sheltering anarchist elements. Dinesh Sharma of the BJP, on similar lines, said, There are some anarchist elements, and some political people who give them protection. They are trying to disturb peace. He added, Modi ji is here in the Centre, and wherever there is BJP government, those who do riots and incite riots, their generations will remember the result of taking law and order in their hands. For at least eight MPs cutting across party lines, it was a pleasant surprise on Friday afternoon when they received a call from the Prime Ministers Office saying PM Narendra Modi wanted to meet them in Parliament. Amongst the MPs was Union Minister L Murugan, BJD Rajya Sabha MP Sasmit Batra, senior Lok Sabha MP NK Prema Chandran, TDP MP Ram Mohan Naidu, BSP MP Ritesh Pandey, BJPs Ladakh MP Jamyang Tsering Namgyal and BJPs Nagaland S Phangnon Konyak. When the MPs reached the PMO, they were asked to wait a short while, following which PM Modi joined them. To their surprise, the PM told them: I want to take you out for a punishment! The curious MPs found themselves being led by the Prime Minister to the canteen for MPs on the first floor of the Parliament building. Soon, the MPs were sitting down to lunch with PM Modi, the bites punctuated by an hour of conversations, both political and personal. Sources say among the first questions put to PM Modi by an MP was what is your favourite dish? And prompt came the PMs reply khichdi. Asked how he managed his time and dealt with the work pressure even while travelling and working late hours, PM Modi is said to have replied: I am used to working for long hours; sometimes, I dont realise that I havent slept for an entire day. The PM reportedly added that his experience as the Chief Minister of Gujarat comes in handy. Among the more serious questions, an MP asked the Prime Minister about his unscheduled visit to the wedding of Nawaz Sharifs daughter in Pakistan in 2015. Recalling the lead-up to the surprise visit, the PM said he was in Parliament till 2pm that day and then left for a scheduled visit to Afghanistan. He said that on the way back from Afghanistan, he decided to stop over in Pakistan, but the SPG declined. He said he called up Sharif nonetheless, asking if the Pakistan premier was ready to receive him. Once the security arrangements on both sides received an all clear, the PM landed in Pakistan. Some MPs also wanted to understand the handling of the Covid-19 crisis from the PMs point of view. Sources say PM Modi told the lawmakers that his experience of managing the situation post the devastating 2001 earthquake in Bhuj, Gujarat came in handy. He added that he was also able to rely on that experience to advise the Nepal government post the April 2015 earthquake that struck the Himalayan nation. One of the MPs told News18 that while there was no set format for the conversation with the PM, it was the lawmakers who were setting the agenda. The Prime Minister was listening to us while we kept on asking question after question. Towards the end of the chat, an MP asked the Prime Minister how he unwinds and relaxes. I do yoga without fail and keep my mind and body relaxed through various forms of exercise and meditation, Modi is said to have replied. Look, I am eating food with you and I am completely relaxed. I am not a PM 247 or wherever I go. I am as much as a normal human being as each one of you. BEIJING, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng on Friday emphasized putting safety first for transport operations and providing sound transportation services during the upcoming Spring Festival holiday. He, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during an inspection tour of the Ministry of Transport. While at the ministry, the vice premier virtually inspected traffic conditions on a number of routes in various areas, including Beijing, Jiangsu, Guangdong and Hainan. He also learned about weather conditions after the holiday, forecasts of return-journey passenger flows and preparation work relevant to responding to emergencies. Some areas have continuously suffered from extreme weather conditions in recent days, He said, urging relevant departments to make early preparations for possible weather changes and emergencies on the return trip after the holiday. The vice premier also noted the need to comprehensively strengthen workplace safety responsibilities and to promptly implement plans for road diversions and highway control, in order to resolutely eliminate safety hazards. He also emphasized reinforcing the monitoring of return-journey passenger flows, guidance of travel information and the guarantee of smooth traffic logistics. After sealing the deal in the eastern state of Bihar with JD(U), the BJP is well on track to tie up with parties across the country in the bid to secure a historic win in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. Top party sources told News18 that talks are currently underway with the RLD, TDP and Akali Dal. A BJP source, confirming the news, said: Talks are currently underway with Jayant Chaudhary and the discussion right now is on the seats that the RLD can get in the NDA. Chaudhry has held at least 2-3 rounds of meetings with the BJPs top leadership. Sources said he has asked for 4-5 seats in the upcoming polls, including the family bastion of Baghpat. The RLD has a strong base in Uttar Pradesh, especially in the Jat-dominated region. The BJP wants to leave no stone unturned to maximise the seats in Uttar Pradesh, especially western UP. Apart from the Jat issue, Chaudhary can also help them negate the impact of farmers protest and the wrestlers agitation. Meanwhile, the BJP leadership has also had at least two rounds of meetings with the Shiromani Akali Dal top brass in a bid to strike an alliance in Punjab. Akali Dal and Parkash Singh Badal were BJP-led NDAs oldest allies. However, the alliance broke after the government brought the farm bills. Following this, Harsimrat Kaur Badal resigned from the Union cabinet and Akali Dal severed ties with the NDA. However, the Akali Dal, which is facing a stiff contest from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Congress in Punjab, is considering going back to its old friend BJP ahead of the 2024 elections. Just a couple of days ago, the BJP top brass met another old ally as Telugu Desam Partys Chandrababu Naidu was in the national capital to meet JP Nadda and Amit Shah. The BJP leadership will also hold a meeting with its ally in the state of Andhra Pradesh, Pawan Kalyan, before holding another round of meetings with Naidu. Kalyans Janasena is in alliance with the NDA and also has an alliance with TDP in Andhra Pradesh. Talks have not reached the seat-distribution stage so far but the leadership of both sides is keen on coming back together to help the BJP register a victory in the state and also get seats in Andhra Pradesh where their score is currently zero, a senior leader confirmed. Naidu was in alliance with the NDA during the era of Atal Bihari Vajpayee and with Prime Minister Narendra Modi from 2014 to 2018. The TDP snapped ties after the Union government did not adhere to the demands for a special status for the state of Andhra Pradesh. However, TDP faced a huge drubbing in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections at the hands of Jagan Mohan Reddys YSRCP. The assembly elections which also happened alongside the Lok Sabha polls saw TDP lose face. AIADMK, another ally of the BJP in its push for southern focus, led a bitter fallout last year. However, in a number of interviews given to regional media in Tamil Nadu, several ministers have said that the doors are open for AIADMK to come back to the NDA fold. In the state of Karnataka, BJP has an alliance with JDS and talks will soon take place on seat distribution. The JDS has asked for four seats in the Mandya belt which has been the stronghold of the party. In the state of Maharashtra too, the BJP is in alliance with Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar-led faction of the NCP. The saffron party will soon hold further discussions with these parties over the distribution of the 48 Lok Sabha seats. During his reply to the Motion of Thanks to the Presidents address in Lok Sabha, PM Modi set the target for the NDA in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The prime minister emphatically said while BJP would score 370 seats, NDA would win over 400 seats. With the target set and the alliances expected to fall into place before the announcement of poll dates, the NDA can definitely breathe easy. Just ahead of Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a Bharat Ratna spree, awarding Indias highest civilian award to LK Advani, Karpoori Thakur, Chaudhary Charan Singh, Narasimha Rao and MS Swaminathan. While three Bharat Ratna awards are allowed per year, there have been many years in between when Indias most coveted civilian award wasnt bestowed on anyone. The last was given to Pranab Mukherjee, Nanaji Deshmukh, and Bhupen Hazarika in 2019. The UPA ended its innings in 2014 when it gave the Bharat Ratna to Sachin Tendulkar and CNR Rao. In fact, during its tenure of 10 years, the Manmohan Singh government gave out only three Bharat Ratnas. In 2009, it had awarded Bhimsen Joshi. In contrast to the UPAs count of three, the NDA government has so far given 10 Bharat Ratnas, including the latest announcements. But what made the Narendra Modi government go for five names within a span of weeks? Of course, like the Padma awards, it has elevated Indias most coveted and prestigious award above political lines. Merit has overtaken petty politics, with the Modi government not shy to acknowledge its adversaries and going into areas that the Congress chose not to tread. Why else would it honour a former Congress Prime Minister like Narasimha Rao or RLD patriarch Chaudhary Charan Singh or the proponent of Mandal politics Karpoori Thakur? All these demands have been around for long. These five names tick five boxes that together summarize Indian politics Mandal, Mandir, Market, Millets (or agricultural produce) and Mandi (or farmers). Karpoori Thakur is considered a pioneer of the idea of reservation in government jobs for the Backward sections. In 1978, he brought in 26% reservation for Backward Classes in Bihar, and is remembered for implementing the recommendations of the Mungeri Lal Commission, which introduced these quotas. This eventually set off a chain of events that led to the Mandal Commission recommendations in the 1990s and hence the politics around it that has come to be known as Mandal politics. It suits the BJP to correct any misconceptions about it being seen as a party of upper caste, ahead of an election. In the same week, it connected Mandal to Mandir by awarding the Bharat Ratna to BJPs original Hindutva poster boy Lal Krishna Advani, whose rath yatra from Somnath in the 1990s across India awakened a hyper Hindutva that was followed by the demolition of the Babri Masjid. In a year when the BJP is celebrating the arrival of Ram Lalla, it couldnt have appealed to its Hindutva base better. PV Narasimha Raos tenure as Prime Minister was marked by significant measures that opened India to global markets, fostering a new era of economic development. While announcing the Bharat Ratna for Rao, Modi mentioned his significant measures that opened India to global markets, fostering a new era of economic development. The deep economic mess of 1991 gave way to the LPG model liberalisation, privatisation, and globalisation. The market as we know today is because of Rao. MS Swaminathan had played a key role in developing high-yielding varieties of paddy that enabled Indias farmers to produce more yield. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture during challenging times and made outstanding efforts towards modernizing Indian agriculture. But the biggest constituent was farmers, and keeping them in mind the government is awarding the Bharat Ratna to Chaudhary Charan Singh who famously gave the clarion call of Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan. Announcing the Bharat Ratna on X, Modi used a photo where he is offering floral tributes to a giant portrait of Singh. It helps a BJP that has been facing a hard time in Punjab, parts of Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh due to the now-withdrawn farm bills that it was forced to roll back. Also, it made the final blow to the INDIA bloc, after Charan Singhs grandson and an opposition ally, RLDs Jayant Chaudhary, announced his decision to join the NDA. How can I say no, was his reaction to joining the NDA after the announcement of Bharat Ratna to his grandfather. With five Bharat Ratnas, one M Modi captured 5Ms that are essential in any election Mandal, Mandir, Market, Millets & Mandi. It was the winter of 2004. On a chilly day, the mortal remains of Indias former prime minister PV Narasimha Rao were brought to the Congress office on Akbar Road. All senior leaders of the party, then prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh, Sonia Gandhi and the top brass were present to pay tribute. But what stood out was the fact that the mortal remains was not taken inside the Congress office and instead, tributes were paid outside the main gate. The party had defended the move then, saying it was done due to lack of space. The explanation, however, did not cut ice, given the huge lawns of the premises. What was evident from the move was the fact that even in death, Sonia Gandhis frosty ties with Rao were not forgotten. In fact, his sons accused her government of not converting Raos official residence into a memorial. Years ago, Gandhi had blamed Rao for not speeding up the investigation into the assassination of her husband Rajiv Gandhi. In a letter to him, she had written to ask what would happen to the common man if the probe into a former PMs assassination was so slow. Those privy to the developments then had said Rao was shaken. Yet, the biggest support for Rao always came from Singh who openly called the former his guru and the father of liberalisation in India. He continued to pay tributes to him each year, even when the party did not. That Rao was seen as an outsider was often reflected in the fact that at big party events and conclaves, his posters were missing or added as an afterthought. If you look at the Congress website, which lists those who have inspired the party, Raos name is surprisingly missing. So what explains the Bharat Ratna for Rao then? There are twin messages here. One, he comes from Andhra Pradesh and amid the North vs South debate, picking Rao for the honour is the governments way of showing that the South matters. More importantly, it also underlines the statement that the prime minister has been making Anyone who is not from the Nehru-Gandhi family is not recognised or given importance. Sardar Patel, Pranab Mukherjee, Subhash Chandra Bose are names that PM Modi has often referred to. Today, as Sonia Gandhi welcomes the award to Rao, the outsider tag he was given cannot be forgotten. The award has only resurrected the fact that for the Congress, he was almost a pariah as the Gandhis were not happy with him. Apple Vision Pro is in high demand as expected, with many people using it for different stuff, including some not-so-legal matters. However, it is interesting that the $3,499 headset has garnered a decent footfall for a first-gen product and Apple is generating interest for the device outside of the US already. In fact, some people are desperate enough to get the Vision Pro shipped to their shores and they seem happy to pay the big bucks to make it happen. The Vision Pro had flooded marketplaces in Japan, China and Singapore in recent days, with people being quoted well above the market price of the headset. As per a report by Bloomberg, people are being asked to pay well over $5,000 (Rs 4 lakh approx) for the device which can even cross $6,000 (Rs 5 lakh approx) depending on who the seller is and which model they want to buy. Experts have pointed out that Apple could have a big impact on the mixed reality segment with the Vision Pro but even they might not have foreseen this level of demand. Apple has smartly limited its official availability to the US with reports hinting at a China launch in the coming weeks. But for everyone else, Apple doesnt have a formal route, which means, just like the black marketing of iPhones, people are ready to spend big on getting the Vision Pro imported from the US which cant be easy with customs agencies keeping a close eye on these shipments. Apple Vision Pro is currently only available in the United States. There are three variants of the Vision Pro available: the 256GB base model, the 512GB variant, and the top-end 1TB variant. These are priced at $3,499, $3,699, and $3,899, respectively. The headset got its first beta update which fixes the problem of resetting the device without going to the store every time. Love is in the air as we step into the third day of Valentines Week, dedicated to Chocolate Day, which every year is celebrated on February 9. Traditionally, this day invites couples to exchange chocolates, adding a touch of sweetness to their love. However, singles find themselves in the middle of romance, which can be hard for some. Many reminisce about past relationships while some desire for someone special. Despite the mushy atmosphere, social media platform X is buzzing with humourous energy, as users are creating and sharing rib tickling memes. While Valentines Day is still a few days away, the festivities of love kick off a week in advance. The seven days leading up to the grand celebration are dedicated to different expressions of love. Starting with Rose Day, followed by Propose Day, Chocolate Day, Teddy Day, Promise Day, Hug Day, and Kiss Day, each day holds a unique significance. Rather than feeling sad about not having a romantic partner to share chocolates with, consider spreading the love to friends and family members. In this article, we have curated some of the funniest memes that are sure to tickle your funny bone. So, grab your favorite snack as we delve into the lighter side of Valentines Week. Mere jaise log, Jo Chocolate lene bas Grocery stores he jaate hai, unhe bhi #ChocolateDay ki badhai.. (@ankushtweets) February 9, 2024 Chocolate Day is believed to have originated as a Christian feast day dedicated to honouring Saint Valentine and others. The tradition of gifting chocolates to loved ones before Valentines Day gained prominence during the Victorian era and has become a normal practice in many countries. Richard Cadbury, a member of a British family known for manufacturing chocolate, played a pivotal role in popularising the idea. Deciding how to use their pure cocoa butter extracted from his invented chocolate making process, Cadbury introduced eating chocolates packaged in beautifully designed boxes. He then started decorating heart shaped boxes with Cupids and rosebuds in 1861, making them not just containers for chocolates but also gifts for love letters and other mementos even after the chocolates were consumed. Interestingly, chocolate has a rich history, which can be linked to the Mayan and Aztec upper class elites, who considered it a highly luxury product. They used a special drink made by combining roasted cacao beans with cornmeal, vanilla, honey and chilies. Cacao beans held a value compared to gold and were even used as a form of currency to pay taxes imposed by Aztec rulers. By the early 1600s, the love for chocolate went beyond Mesoamerica and across Europe. In London, chocolate houses emerged as popular social gathering spots, which became a huge competition for the coffee houses in the city. US President Joe Biden said Thursday that Israels military response in the Gaza Strip to the October 7 attacks by Hamas is over the top. Im of the view, as you know, that the conduct of the response in Gaza, in the Gaza Strip, has been over the top, the 81-year-old told reporters at the White House. This remark comes as US support for Israels war on the Palestinian militant group has sparked a flurry of attacks on American troops in the region, as well as criticism of the Biden administration at home and abroad. On Thursday, the United States military confirmed its forces conducted multiple strikes against Houthi missile systems as the Yemen-based rebel group prepared to launch attacks that threatened US Navy and merchant ships. Feb. 8 Summary of USCENTCOM Self-Defense Strikes in YemenOn Feb. 8, between the hours of 5 a.m. 9 p.m. (Sanaa time), U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces conducted seven self-defense strikes against four Houthi unmanned surface vessels (USV) and seven mobile anti-ship cruise pic.twitter.com/5qKArWfj7G U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) February 9, 2024 Months of bombardment and siege have deepened a humanitarian crisis, especially in southern Gaza. But Biden said he had pushed to get humanitarian assistance into Gaza. The US President said Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sissi initially did not want to open up the gate to allow humanitarian material to get in. I talked to him, I convinced him to open the gate. I talked to Bibi to open the gate on the Israeli side, Biden continued, referring to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Ive been pushing really hard, really hard to get humanitarian assistance into Gaza. Hamass unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7 resulted in the deaths of about 1,160 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. Israel vowed to eliminate Hamas and launched air strikes and a ground offensive that have killed at least 27,840 people, according to the Gaza health ministry. Militants also seized around 250 hostages. Israel says 132 remain in Gaza, of whom 29 are believed to have died. The war has sparked a surge in violence across the region by Iran-backed groups operating in solidarity with Hamas, drawing retaliatory attacks from Israel and the United States and its allies. (With agency inputs) With every count of the ballot in Pakistan, a proposed power-sharing formula is being worked out for the formation of the next government setup, with the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) likely to be at the centre of the affair. Current projections suggest a distribution of seats with PML-N expected to secure between 80 to 90, PPP around 60, and independents limited to 40, according to inputs obtained by CNN-News18. If realised, this arrangement could streamline governance, potentially consolidating power with the countrys powerful military. Analysts suggest this scenario could sideline former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, known for his ability to challenge military authority. The likelihood of his brother Shehbaz assuming the role of Prime Minister again remains plausible. If the plan materialises, this is how the new cabinet could look like. President From PPP Prime Minister From PML-N (Both Shehbaz Sharif and Nawaz if PML-N gets good numbers) Opposition Leader Bilawal Bhutto in National Assembly Chairman Senate PML-N Ahsan Iqbal Finance Minister/Govt Representative to head SIFC Punjab Province PML-N & CM Maryam Nawaz, Aleem Khan likely to be senior minister Sindh Province PPP Balochistan Province Coalition Government Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Power sharing with PTI independents Widespread irregularities Earlier, sources close to Imran Khan alleged widespread irregularities during the Pakistan elections, casting a shadow over the democratic process. They told CNN-News18 that the electoral playing field was anything but level and that the bat symbol associated with Imran Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), was taken away from the party. The international community has expressed shock at these developments, with international media outlets and observers condemning the reported irregularities. Initially, PTI-backed independent candidates were reportedly leading in 90 seats. However, the situation took a dramatic turn with the militarys alleged intervention. The General Headquarters (GHQ) has reportedly assumed direct control over the electoral process in South Punjab and Lahore, with General Asim Munir personally overseeing the handling of results. Earlier, initial results indicated a major setback for the PML-N, with PTI-backed independent candidates taking the lead. The victory for PTI-backed independents extends beyond the National Assembly, with strong performances reported in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) and Balochistan as well. Unofficial reports suggest that PTI-backed candidates are leading in 90 seats, placing PML-N in second position with 45 seats. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) won the 2024 elections by an absolute landslide, Imran Khans party declared on Friday as the independent candidates linked to the jailed former prime ministers party were outperforming expectations in the polls. This comes as Khans PTI was barred from contesting Thursdays election as a bloc, but unofficial tallies by local TV channels showed independent candidates, including dozens anointed by his party, leading in most constituencies. Amid a delay in official results, PTI cautioned against manipulation, asserting it would only lead to chaos and instability. PTI won the Elections 2024 by an absolute landslide.The world witnessed it.Manipulation of results now will not achieve anything other than absolute chaos & instability.The people have decided!Honor their decision.#Elections2024 https://t.co/ex0UHLNftc PTI (@PTIofficial) February 9, 2024 Over 150 seats By 6 am (local time) the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) had announced just eight National Assembly results, with three seats going to PTI-linked candidates. PTI won the Elections 2024 by an absolute landslide. The world witnessed it. Manipulation of results now will not achieve anything other than absolute chaos & instability. The people have decided! Honor their decision, the PTI wrote on X early Friday morning. Copies of these forms have been collected by PTI candidates polling agents, which show them winning by a large majority. According to independent reports, PTI has won well over 150 National Assembly seats & is in a solid position to form government in Federal, Punjab & KP, with a clear majority. However, manipulation of the results in the late hours of the night is an utter disgrace & a brazen theft of the nations mandate. The people of Pakistan vehemently reject the rigged results, the party added. Internet problems The ECP earlier blamed internet problems for the delay. TV stations were basing their projections on counting done at the local constituency level. Earlier, before the first results were announced, PTI chief organiser Omar Ayub Khan said he was confident the party had done enough. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf-backed independent candidates have the ability to form the next federal government with a two-thirds majority, he said in a video statement released to media. The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) had been expected to win the most seats following Thursdays vote, with many saying partys founder Nawaz Sharif had the blessing of the military-led establishment. But local TV channels said the party had performed poorly - with Sharif trailing his opponent in one of the constituencies he contested. Pakistan politicians can stand for multiple seats, a frequent spoiling tactic used by parties to inject vote-winning personalities into marginal constituencies. The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) appeared to be doing better than expected, with leader Bilawal Bhutto Zardari saying early results were very encouraging. Rigging Pollsters predicted a low turnout from the countrys 128 million eligible voters following a lacklustre campaign overshadowed by the jailing of Khan, and the hobbling of PTI through court orders, a ban on rallies, and the harassment of party leaders. Allegations of poll rigging overshadowed the election, and a voting day shutdown by authorities of the countrys mobile phone network ostensibly on security grounds added fuel to the fire. Earlier, millions of Pakistanis braved cold winter weather and the threat of militant attacks to cast their ballots. More than 650,000 army, paramilitary and police personnel were deployed to provide security on Thursday. There were a total of 51 attacks nationwide, the army said, killing a dozen people including 10 security force members fewer than in 2018, when dozens were killed. (With agency inputs) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told military officials to draw up plans for evacuating Rafah. Rafah is currently housing half of Gazas 2.4 million people as many displaced people have taken refuge in shelters to escape the war between Israel and Hamas. He also told officials that the primary aim of the Gaza siege which was to eliminate Hamas is impossible to achieve if four Hamas battalions are still stationed in Rafah. It is impossible to achieve the goal of the war without eliminating Hamas, and by leaving four Hamas battalions in Rafah. On the contrary, it is clear that intense activity in Rafah requires that civilians evacuate the areas of combat, Netanyahus office said. Therefore, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the IDF and the security establishment to submit to the Cabinet a combined plan for evacuating the population and destroying the battalions, Netanyahus office further added. Rafah is the last major Gaza city in the blockaded coastal strip that Israeli ground troops have yet to attack. Israeli military intensified air raids on a city teeming with about half of the Gaza Strips 2.4 million people on Thursday evening and late Friday morning. The US President Joe Biden issued the strongest rebuke yet to Israel after reports of the Rafah offensive reached the White House. Im of the view, as you know, that the conduct of the response in Gaza, in the Gaza Strip, has been over the top. There are a lot of innocent people who are starving in trouble and dying, and its got to stop, Biden was quoted as saying. Therefore, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the IDF and the security establishment to submit to the Cabinet a combined plan for evacuating the population and destroying the battalions. Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) February 9, 2024 The US State Department said it does not support a ground offensive in Rafah, warning that, if not properly planned, such an operation in a city sheltering more than one million displaced Palestinians risked disaster. There is no safe place in Rafah. If they storm Rafah we will die in our homes. We have no choice. We dont want to go anywhere else, Jaber al-Bardini, a resident of Rafah, was quoted as saying by news agency AFP. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) began announcing the 2024 poll results as parties expressed concern over a delay, with no clear picture until the early hours of Friday regarding which party was leading the chart. The ECP announced that PTI-backed candidates have won three seats for the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provincial assembly. The commission said that independent candidate Samiullah Khan won 18,888 votes according to results from 37.62 percent of the polling stations for PK-76, the Dawn reported. Honble CEC Message For Conducting Successful General Elections 2024 (Urdu) #ECP pic.twitter.com/O67Y4RXur1 Election Commission of Pakistan (OFFICIAL) (@ECP_Pakistan) February 8, 2024 As for PK-6, independent candidate Fazal Hakeem Khan took 25,330 votes. The two are PTI-backed candidates. Samiullah Khan has been declared the winner from Peshawars PK-76, ECP Special Secretary Zafar Iqbal said, according to the Dawn. The winner candidate in this (PK-6) is Fazal Hakeem Khan, an independent. The Dawn reported that PTI-backed independent candidate Ali Shah has bagged Swats PK-4 constituency as per unofficial results from the Election Commission of Pakistan. He took 30,022 votes. No clear picture till about 3 am The polls closed Thursday evening and ballot counting began but there was no clear picture till about 3 am from the ECP about which party was leading. As political parties complained about the delay and questioned the poll authority, the ECP directed all the provincial election commissioners and returning officers to announce the results within half an hour or else face strict action. In a press release issued well past the midnight, a copy of which is available with Dawn.com, the electoral watchdog also said the statements being run by media channels regarding the ECP were not true. Former prime minister Imran Khan, the founding-chairman of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf:, is behind bars and barred from contesting. On Friday, UN chief Antonio Guterres urged political leaders and society segments to maintain a calm atmosphere as the results of the elections are being tabulated. The counting of votes began following the conclusion of the polling on Thursday. Despite polling concluding at 5 pm in the general elections, the nation is waiting for the results after more than seven hours have passed at midnight. In a statement to the Associated Press of Pakistan, the Secretary-General said As Pakistan awaits the results of the elections, I encourage all political leaders and society segments to maintain a calm atmosphere. I continue to follow the situation in Pakistan closely, including the general elections that took place today, the UN chief said. I am also concerned about reports of incidents of violence and casualties, and the suspension of mobile communications services, he said. (With agency inputs) Passengers pose for photos with a Spring Festival decorative installation at Chengdu East Railway Station in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Feb. 9, 2024. People across the country held various celebrations on Friday, the Chinese Lunar New Year's eve, to welcome the traditional festival. (Xinhua/Wang Xi) Passengers pose for photos with a Spring Festival decorative installation at Chengdu East Railway Station in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Feb. 9, 2024. People across the country held various celebrations on Friday, the Chinese Lunar New Year's eve, to welcome the traditional festival. (Xinhua/Wang Xi) A staff member plays the violin for passengers during a Spring Festival celebration event on the train G1426, Feb. 9, 2024. People across the country held various celebrations on Friday, the Chinese Lunar New Year's eve, to welcome the traditional festival. (Xinhua/Wang Xiang) Staff members and passengers pose for photos during a Spring Festival celebration event on the train G1426, Feb. 9, 2024. People across the country held various celebrations on Friday, the Chinese Lunar New Year's eve, to welcome the traditional festival. (Xinhua/Wang Xiang) US state department spokesperson Matthew Miller in a tweet said the American administration will work with the Pakistani government, regardless of political party. Millions of Pakistanis made their voices heard at the polls on February 8. We will work with the Pakistani government, regardless of political party, to advance our shared interests and strive to bolster democratic institutions and broaden political participation. Matthew Miller (@StateDeptSpox) February 9, 2024 Millions of Pakistanis made their voices heard at the polls on February 8. We will work with the Pakistani government, regardless of political party, to advance our shared interests and strive to bolster democratic institutions and broaden political participation, Matthew Miller tweeted. Sources close to Imran Khan have alleged widespread irregularities during the Pakistan elections, casting a shadow over the democratic process. They told CNN-News18 that the electoral playing field was anything but level and that the bat symbol associated with Imran Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), was taken away from the party. Local media reports suggest that voters were subjected to intimidation and coercion. Concerns have been raised regarding the impartiality of the electoral process, with claims that the army has intervened to halt the counting of votes and shut down polling booths. The international community has expressed shock at these developments, with international media outlets and observers condemning the reported irregularities. Initially, PTI-backed independent candidates were reportedly leading in 90 seats. However, the situation took a dramatic turn with the militarys alleged intervention. The General Headquarters (GHQ) has reportedly assumed direct control over the electoral process in South Punjab and Lahore, with General Asim Munir personally overseeing the handling of results. While results from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) and interior Sindh have been released, the situation remains tense as the militarys involvement raises questions about the integrity of the electoral outcome. PTI-Backed Independent Candidates Leading Earlier, initial results indicated a major setback for the PML-N, with PTI-backed independent candidates taking the lead. The victory for PTI-backed independents extends beyond the National Assembly, with strong performances reported in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) and Balochistan as well. Unofficial reports suggest that PTI-backed candidates are leading in 90 seats, placing PML-N in second position with 45 seats. The outcome represents a notable blow for former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, who reportedly vacated the Model Town office late into the night following the results. Subsequently, the military assumed control of all Returning Offices, reportedly initiating the preparation of Form 45. In the late hours, Pakistans Chief Election Commissioner also departed from his office before conducting a press conference. Around 11:30 PM on Thursday, PPPs Asif Ali Zardari arrived in Islamabad, adding further intrigue to the political landscape. Top sources indicate that in this proposed formula, the number of independent candidates will be reduced, facilitating the formation of a PML-N government with additional support, while PPP is slated to secure the presidency. Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khans party on Friday claimed victory in the general elections while alleging that results were being delayed due to attempts being made to rig the outcome. Pakistan Election Result 2024 Live: Ex-PMs Nawaz, Shehbaz Win; Imran Khans PTI Claims Over 150 Seats The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf: party asked PML-Ns supreme leader Nawaz Sharif, who was being dubbed as an Army-backed candidate, to concede defeat. The PML-N, however, rejected the demand and claimed that it was winning Thursdays elections. By 1 pm, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) had announced 70 official results, with independents getting 24. A total of 265 seats were contested in Thursdays election. Votes are still being counted in Pakistan after Thursdays general election which was marred by allegations of rigging, sporadic violence and a countrywide mobile phone shutdown. PML-Ns Marriyum Aurangzeb has said that the party will form the government in the Centre and Punjab. In a post on X, she said that the results were still being received by the partys election cell, adding that the partys position was strong. PML-N, PTI and PPP In a statement on X from the PTI official handle, the party stated that it won more than 150 NA seats out of 265 open for contest as per the data received in Form 45s, which are the primary source of election results at the lowest level and show the votes for each candidate at each polling station. A party must win 133 seats out of 265 being contested to form the next government. Copies of these forms have been collected by PTI candidates polling agents, which show them winning by a large majority. According to independent reports, PTI has won well over 150 National Assembly seats & is in a solid position to form government in Federal, Punjab & KP (Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa), with a clear majority, it stated. However, manipulation of the results in the late hours of the night is an utter disgrace & a brazen theft of the nations mandate. The people of Pakistan vehemently reject the rigged results. The world is watching, it asserted. Thread highlighing the National Assembly constituencies won by PTIs nominated candidates, as per the data received in Form 45s.Form 45s are the primary source of election results at the lowest level.The votes for each candidate are tabulated at each polling station on the PTI (@PTIofficial) February 9, 2024 Let the world know In another statement, PTI alleged that its mandate was being stolen. Let the world know that the clear and overwhelming mandate of the people of Pakistan is being stolen. Despite unprecedented pre-poll rigging & oppression, there was a record, massive turnout on polling day, it stated The party said that every independent candidate backed by it was winning by a landslide. It also said that Returning Officers are now manipulating the results using Form 47, which is a summary of Form 45 from each polling station. Furthermore, there are reports of the polling agents getting abducted & forced to sign fake Form 45s, it said. It also referred to unspecified reports to claim that PTI nominated candidates (were) losing suddenly in various constituencies now, after they had already won by a clear majority. In another statement, the party asked Sharif to concede defeat. Show some grace @NawazSharifMNS, accept the defeat! The people of Pakistan will never accept you. This is a golden opportunity to regain some credibility as a Democrat. Daylight robbery is going to be rejected massively by Pakistan! it said in a statement on X. PML-N has countered the PTI claim about results and said that it was winning. Based on data compiled in PMLN Election Cell and results already in the public domain, PMLN has emerged as the single largest political party in the National Assembly and a clear majority party in Punjab Assembly, according to party leader Ishaq Dar. He also said that premature and biased speculations must be avoided as the country awaits the official complete results from ECP. (With agency inputs) The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) claimed that the Pakistan Army participated in electoral fraud during the counting of the results on Friday. The PTI claimed that the Pakistan army participated in widespread rigging as results trickled in. We have video evidence of rigging shown on camera. Despite our loss of bat symbol, Imran Khan backed candidates won majorly, a PTI member familiar with the developments told news agency CNN-News18. The aforementioned person questioned the turnaround from the initial trends seen late Thursday night and said that this signals that the Pakistan Army does not want them to win. Till last night we were winning majorly now this turnaround suggests (that the) army (is desperate). It doesnt want us (to win), the person said. Meanwhile, Nawaz Sharifs Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) is headed to be the single largest party but it is unlikely to get the magical number of 134. Earlier in the day, the PML-N supremo said he will deliver a victory speech from the party headquarters and his party is poised to form the government. The military dictatorship, with the help of corrupt politicians,, judiciary & bureaucracy, have decided to stand against their own citizens. Therefore, all means of rigging are used to deny the people of Pakistan get their representatives elected.#Pakistan #RiggingAgainstPTI pic.twitter.com/bkOtso0I34 X3 (@X3Returns) February 9, 2024 The only other party that has claimed that there were incidents of rigging in the elections is the former coalition partner of PML-N in the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government, the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). PPP senior leader Sherry Rehman on Friday claimed that election results of Lahores constituency were manipulated, where party chief Bilawal Bhutto Zardari lost polls to Pakistan Muslim League-Nawazs (PML-N) Attaullah Tarar. Four top Middle Eastern diplomats reiterated calls for irreversible steps towards the recognition of a Palestinian state during talks on the war in Gaza hosted by Saudi Arabia, state media reported on Friday. The meeting held on Thursday as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken concluded his fifth crisis tour of the Middle East since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war was attended by the foreign ministers of Egypt, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Jordan, as well as a senior Palestinian official. Two diplomats briefed on preparations for the meeting told AFP it was intended to promote a unified Arab position on the war, now in its fifth month. In their meeting, the ministers emphasized the need to end the war on the Gaza Strip, reach an immediate and complete ceasefire, ensure the protection of civilians in accordance with international humanitarian law, and lift all restrictions that impede the entry of humanitarian aid into the enclave, the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported. They also voiced support for UNRWA, the UN Palestinian aid agency that is under fire over Israeli accusations that 12 staff members were involved in Hamass October 7 attack on Israel, which triggered the war. They also stressed the importance of taking irreversible steps to implement the two-state solution and recognize the state of Palestine on the borders of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital, SPA said. Saudi Arabia, home to the holiest sites in Islam, has never recognised Israel, though officials were considering doing so before the Hamas attack, which resulted in the deaths of about 1,160 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. Israel vowed to eliminate Hamas in response, launching air strikes and a ground offensive that have killed at least 27,840 people, mostly women and children, according to the Gaza health ministry. US President Joe Bidens administration continues to tout the possibility of Saudi-Israeli normalisation, though the Saudi foreign ministry said this week it would not be possible without a halt to Israeli aggression and recognition of an independent Palestinian state. Blinken left the region without securing a pause in fighting, after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he had ordered troops to prepare to operate in Rafah, the last major town in the Gaza Strip ground forces have yet to enter. In a show of magnanimity, Pakistans prime ministerial hopeful Nawaz Sharif has opened doors for all parties to form the government after claiming victory in the national elections marred by violence and disorder. We cant hold elections again and again. We were all sitting together yesterday but didnt address you because the results were not in, he said in a public address. All the institutions in this country, everyone should together play a positive role in bringing Pakistan out of this crisis. Nawaz Sharif said he had told his younger brother and former PM Shehbaz to reach out to the PPPs Asif Ali Zardari, JUI-Fs Fazlur Rehman, and MQM-Ps Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui for the formation of a coalition government. Shehbaz Sharif and Ishaq Dar will hold meetings today, he said. According to sources, Zardari had arrived for talks with Shehbaz Sharif. As of 8pm (Pakistan time), results for 221 national assembly seats had been announced. Independent candidates were leading with 90 seats, followed by 62 seats for Sharifs Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz). The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) had 51 seats and the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (Pakistan) had 11. The Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP), Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI), and the Pakistan Muslim League (Quaid e Azam Group) had two seats each, while the Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PKMAP) had one. The results of 44 seats were awaited. We are all celebrating today because in these elections PML-N has emerged as the largest party in the country, Nawaz Sharif claimed. We do not have the majority to form government on our ownSo, we are inviting everyone today to rebuild this injured Pakistan and sit with us. Our agenda is only a happy Pakistan and you know what we have done before. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) said that the delay in results was due to a day-long mobile network shutdown imposed by the government during voting. The slow process resulted in allegations by jailed former prime minister Imran Khans party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) that ballots were being tampered with in order to ensure Nawaz Sharifs victory in the elections. We have to take this country to the 21st century and we are lagging behind because of our own mistakes, Sharif said. I tried to take this country in 1990 to a different tangent but we lost trackGod was kind when we did the nuclear test in Pakistan and became one of the powers. Sharif emphasised that it was the collective duty of all political parties to collaborate and lead Pakistan out of its current challenges. Not just my or Ishaq Dars responsibility It is everyones Pakistan. If we all work together, only then Pakistan will get out of this crisis, he added. President Vladimir Putin has asserted that defeating Russia in Ukraine is impossible and NATO must accept Moscows territorial gains there. There has been the uproar and screaming about inflicting a strategic defeat to Russia on the battlefield, Putin told US talk show host Tucker Carlson in an interview posted Thursday. Putin defended his decision to invade Ukraine in February 2022 and he added that the West now realises that Russia will not be defeated, despite help from Western countries. In my opinion, it is impossible by definition. It is never going to happen. This comes a day after the Kremlin confirmed that Putin has been interviewed by former Fox News host Carlson. It is Putins first interview with a Western media figure since the start of a full-scale war in Ukraine two years ago. Carlson earlier released a video from Moscow on Tuesday in which he said he would be interviewing Putin, who has heavily limited his contact with international media since February 2022. Ep. 73 The Vladimir Putin Interview pic.twitter.com/67YuZRkfLL Tucker Carlson (@TuckerCarlson) February 8, 2024 During the two-hour interview released on Thursday, Carlson asked Putin if he would Russian troops to Poland. The Russian President answered that it was out of the question for Russia to invade Poland or Latvia. We simply dont have any interest in expanding the war in Ukraine. Only in one case, if Poland attacks Russia, Putin responded, adding: We have no interest in Poland, Latvia or anywhere else. Why would we do that? We simply dont have any interest It is absolutely out of the question. On WSJ Reporter Putin believes a deal is possible to free detained Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, he told Carlson. There is no taboo to settle this issue. We are willing to solve it but there are certain terms being discussed via special services channels. I believe an agreement can be reached, Putin told Carlson when asked about Gershkovich, who was detained in March last year and accused of spying, a charge he and his employer have vehemently rejected. Putins resolve on Ukraine comes as a $95.34 billion aid bill was advanced in the US Senate on Thursday after Republicans blocked compromise legislation that included a long-sought overhaul of immigration policy. The security aid bill includes $61 billion for Ukraine as it battles Russia. Supporters of Ukraine in US have been struggling for much of the past year to find a way to send more money to help Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyys government. On the war front, Ukraines military said that Russian troops are engaged in fighting with Ukrainian forces inside the beleaguered town of Avdiivka, which has been under sustained Russian assault since mid-October. Russian forces have been trying to advance on the town, noted for its vast coking plant and seen as a gateway to the Russian-held city of Donetsk, 20 km to the east. Ukraines ground forces said the situation was tense across the east, with Russian troops trying to break through defences near Chasiv Yar, a town west of Bakhmut. (With agency inputs) Students pose for a photo with their Chinese calligraphy works during a cultural event ahead of the Chinese Lunar New Year, or the Spring Festival, at the Confucius Institute of the University of Yaounde II in Yaounde, Cameroon, Feb. 8, 2024. (Photo by Kepseu/Xinhua) Students take part in dragon and lion dance performances during a cultural event ahead of the Chinese Lunar New Year, or the Spring Festival, at the Confucius Institute of the University of Yaounde II in Yaounde, Cameroon, Feb. 8, 2024. (Photo by Kepseu/Xinhua) Students learn Chinese Wushu during a cultural event ahead of the Chinese Lunar New Year, or the Spring Festival, at the Confucius Institute of the University of Yaounde II in Yaounde, Cameroon, Feb. 8, 2024. (Photo by Kepseu/Xinhua) A student learns Chinese calligraphy during a cultural event ahead of the Chinese Lunar New Year, or the Spring Festival, at the Confucius Institute of the University of Yaounde II in Yaounde, Cameroon, Feb. 8, 2024. (Photo by Kepseu/Xinhua) Students learn to make dumplings during a cultural event ahead of the Chinese Lunar New Year, or the Spring Festival, at the Confucius Institute of the University of Yaounde II in Yaounde, Cameroon, Feb. 8, 2024. (Photo by Kepseu/Xinhua) A student shows her Chinese paper cutting work during a cultural event ahead of the Chinese Lunar New Year, or the Spring Festival, at the Confucius Institute of the University of Yaounde II in Yaounde, Cameroon, Feb. 8, 2024. (Photo by Kepseu/Xinhua) ZIMBABWE and Botswana will forge ahead with eliminating passport requirements for citizens travelling between the two countries in line with regional and continental aspirations of facilitating the free movement of people across borders. Addressing a Press briefing after the Fourth Session of the Zimbabwe-Botswana Bi-National Commission Summit here yesterday, both President Mnangagwa and his counterpart President Mokgweetsi Masisi reaffirmed their commitment to facilitating seamless movement of people and goods across the shared borders, boosting economic activity and strengthening regional integration. President Mnangagwa said passport requirements were vestiges of a fraught colonial past that was no longer fit for purpose in a fast-integrating region. On his part, President Masisi dismissed the notion that the removal of passport requirements would lead to an influx of illegal immigrants into the neighbouring country, saying those views were driven by unjustified prejudice. It is envisaged that once passport requirements have been removed, travellers would only require their respective national identity documents to travel between the two countries. This initiative aligns with broader efforts within the Southern African Development Community and the African Union (AU) to promote free movement of people on the continent. The history of our respective countries shows that we didnt have passports to move from one country to another. Passports were brought by those who thought they were more civilised than us. We have decided that between Zimbabwe, Botswana, South Africa, and Mozambique in our region . . . we have a policy of integration. I dont know what word you use in Setswana to say integration but in Shona we say kubatana, said President Mnangagwa. President Masisi said consultations between Harare and Gaborone for rolling out the proposed initiative were ongoing. There is ongoing very positive consultation between the Governments of Botswana and Zimbabwe, said President Masisi. There have been exchanges of what is required to enable that including issues like security vetting of the instruments; comparability of instruments used and many other things, just like we did with Namibia. Botswana and Namibia removed passport requirements for their citizens early last year, making the two the first countries in southern Africa to implement such a system. As leaders we have expressed a desire to do this, not because we want it among ourselves only, but its a long-standing resolution and intention as pronounced not just by Sadc but the AU. So we dont claim to own or be the originators of these things. We are the deliverers of it, said President Masisi. He said the initiative would not lead to heightened illegal migration but using an ID to cross borders would make cross-border movement between the two countries more efficient. There is a break in logic here; the ID itself and the permission of it to become a travel document does not correlate with an influx (of illegal immigrants) because it is still a filter, President Masisi said. What it does is that it provides a greater opportunity for people to travel legally. There is still a border that they have to cross. It doesnt mean they have to have an ID to skip a border; they still become illegal even if they have an ID. You are still an illegal immigrant if you have a valid passport that was not stamped at the border. So we must separate these. Part of the Zimbabwe delegation to the Fourth Session of the Zimbabwe-Botswana Bi-National Commission Summit He said fears of an influx of illegal migrants were misplaced. Botswana, he said, had a long history of accepting Zimbabweans into their country since the days of the liberation struggle when refugees fleeing the war flocked into the neighbouring country. I think people get caught up in this emotional association that is not logical and certainly not necessarily true. This is where xenophobia begins. When you, my brothers and sisters, develop an attitude usually without real explanation, you will break relations. Not so long ago when Zimbabwe was fighting for its liberation, we readily accepted them and opened our doors to refugees. Now they are not coming as refugees, said President Masisi. Herald MOSCOW, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Russia has repeatedly sought a peaceful solution to the problems in Ukraine since 2014, Russian President Vladimir Putin said in an interview with U.S. media personality Tucker Carlson published Friday. "We repeatedly, repeatedly offered to seek a solution to the problems that arose in Ukraine after the coup in 2014 by peaceful means. But no one listened to us. And what's more, the Ukrainian leadership, which was under full control of the United States, suddenly declared that it would not fulfill the Minsk agreements, they did not like anything there, and continued military activity in this territory," Putin said. Meanwhile, the development of this territory by NATO military structures took place under the guise of various training and retraining centers for personnel, said Putin, adding that they had actually built bases there. He recalled that the Ukrainian authorities adopted laws that restricted the rights of Russians. "In Ukraine, they declared that Russians are -- they passed a law -- a non-titular nation, and at the same time they adopted laws that restrict the rights of non-titular nations." "This all together caused the decision to end the war that was started by neo-Nazis in Ukraine in 2014 by armed means," the Russian president said. UPDATE Feb 9, 2024 1:37 PM CST A Texas man who pleaded guilty to sneaking an abortion drug into his pregnant wife's drinks will serve 180 days behind bars and be on probation for 10 years, reports the AP. NBC News reports that Mason Herring is also barred from having any contact with either his estranged wife or their 1-year-old daughter, who Catherine Herring says has developmental delays as a result of the drugs. "I do not believe that 180 days is justice for attempting to kill your child seven separate times," she said. Mason Herring pleaded guilty to injury to a child and assault of a pregnant person. Nov 11, 2022 7:16 AM CST A Texas grand jury has indicted a husband accused of slipping a medicine used for abortions into his wife's drinks in hopes that it would end her pregnancy. Mason Herring, a 38-year-old Houston attorney, was indicted on two felony counts, including assault of a pregnant person, under charges handed up last week by a Harris County grand jury, per the AP. Court records show he was originally arrested in May and released on a $30,000 bond. It's "a pretty heinous act," Harris County Assistant District Attorney Anthony Osso tells KTRK, adding the baby was born prematurely but was healthy and well. During his controversial sit-down with Vladimir Putin, Tucker Carlson asked the Russian president to release US journalist Evan Gershkovich, who has been detained in Russia on an espionage charge since March of last year, as a gesture of goodwill. Putin shot down that idea, but said he was open to releasing Gershkovich as part of a prisoner swap, the Wall Street Journal reports. He also suggested a way that Russia's war with Ukraine could end in a matter of weeks, Politico reports. More on that and other details from the two-hour interview, which was published on Carlson's website and the social network X Thursday night: More on Gershkovich: Putin insisted he is "sincere" in his desire to return the journalist to the US, but indicated the ball is in America's court. "The more public we render these things of this nature, the more difficult it becomes to resolve them. Everything has to be done in a calm manner," he said. He wouldn't suggest a time frame for a possible deal, nor did he say who Russia would want released in exchange, though the Journal notes he made a "clear reference" to Russian operative Vadim Krasikov, jailed in Germany for assassinating a Chechen emigre, without specifically naming him. Two Colorado funeral home owners accused of abandoning nearly 200 bodies took payments from families that were meant for cremations and burials and instead bought vehicles, cryptocurrency, a $1,500 dinner in Las Vegas, and other personal items, prosecutors and an FBI agent said Thursday. In a courtroom packed with families of the deceased, FBI Agent Andrew Cohen said that Jon and Carie Hallford used payments from the families to buy two vehiclesa GMC Yukon and an Infinitifor more than $120,000, enough to cover cremation costs twice over for all of the bodies found in their business' storage facility in Penrose, Colorado, last October, the AP reports. Some of the bodies had been in the maggot-infested building for years before they were discovered following reports of a foul odor permeating the small mountain town. Families who hired the Return to Nature Funeral Home to cremate their relatives have told the AP that the FBI confirmed their remains were among the decaying bodies. The testimony about the Hallfords' spending practices came during a hearing in which a judge determined prosecutors presented enough evidence to show Jon Hallford should stand trial on criminal charges. The judge previously ruled that Carie Hallford will also stand trial. The couple were arrested in Oklahoma in November. The couple, who owned the funeral home in Colorado Springs and stored bodies in nearby Penrose, are each charged with 190 counts of abuse of a corpse, five counts of theft, four counts of money laundering, and over 50 counts of forgery. According to prosecutors, Jon Hallford was worried about getting caught as far back as 2020 and suggested getting rid of the bodies by dumping them in a big hole, then treating them with lye or setting them on fire. "My one and only focus is keeping us out of jail," he allegedly wrote in one text message. Jon Hallford was released from the El Paso County jail in late January after posting a $100,000 bond. Carie Halford remained in jail on Thursday on a $100,000 bond. (More funeral home stories.) Tucker Carlson asked Vladimir Putin to release American journalist Evan Gershkovich during the interview with the Russian leader that aired Thursday, but he did little else to challenge Putin during a two-hour talk at the Kremlin that began with Putin delivering a very long lecture on Russian history. Four takes on Putin's first interview with a Western journalist since the invasion of Ukraine: Putin was "fully in charge." Carlson's "fixed, fascinated expression slipped a few times," especially while Putin talked about history going back to the 9th century in an attempt to justify Russian claims to eastern Ukraine, writes Sarah Rainsford at the BBC. "But for the most part, Carlson seemed to lap up what Russia's president was telling him," she writes. "Putin was fully in charge of this encounter and for large parts of it his interviewer barely got a word in." Rainsford notes that none of Putin's statements were "challenged in essence" and Carlson made no attempt to address Russian war crimes in Ukraine. David Folkenflik at NPR writes that Putin "appeared to have done opposition research worthy of the KGB agent he once was. He needled Carlson at separate moments about having been a history major and having applied (unsuccessfully) for a position at the Central Intelligence Agency." Two women from Kentucky say they were drugged and raped after leaving a Carnival cruise ship to visit a Bahamas resort on Sunday. The two women, both 31, were lounging at the resort in Freeport, Grand Bahama, when they were approached by an employee who offered them a two-for-one drink deal, per USA Today. "They were given drinksa coconut and pineapple drinkspiked with a series of drug and narcotics," the women's Miami-based attorney, Nicholas Gerson, tells the outlet. Dongayla Dobson tells NewsNation the friends were searching for seashells with "a male resort employee" when she blacked out. She says she "came to in the process of my rape" by "a uniformed male resort staffer." "What's past is past" was the underlying message, sort of, of a ruling this week from Hawaii's Supreme Court, though its decision cited a different famous quote from a popular TV series to get its point across. CBS News and the AP report that the state's high court issued a ruling Wednesday that allows the prosecution of Christopher Wilson, accused of carrying a gun in public in 2017, to go forward. "The spirit of aloha clashes with a federally mandated lifestyle that lets citizens walk around with deadly weapons during day-to-day activities," read the court's decision, penned by Justice Todd Eddins. Eddins also cites local predecent, noting that in the 19th century, when Hawaii was still categorized as a kingdom, residents weren't allowed to carry around dangerous weapons. He then quoted HBO's The Wire to emphasize that we're now in the 21st century, and the laws should reflect that. "As the world turns, it makes no sense for contemporary society to pledge allegiance to the founding era's culture, realities, laws, and understanding of the Constitution," the court's decision noted. It then included words of wisdom from the fourth season of The Wire, which the Wrap notes were spoken by Anwan Glover's character, Slim Charles: "The thing about the old days, they the old days." The court's incorporation of Wire language caught the attention of the show's creator, David Simon, on X. "Slim Charles was a sagacious motherf---er," Simon reacted Thursday on the social media platform, retweeting a clip of Glover speaking the famous line. Not everyone appreciated the series shoutout, however. "The use of pop culture references ... is evidence this is not a well-reasoned opinion," said Alan Beck, an attorney who has challenged Hawaii's gun restrictions but wasn't involved with Wilson's case, per CBS. (More The Wire stories.) Seiji Ozawa, the Japanese conductor who amazed audiences with the lithe physicality of his performances during three decades at the helm of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, has died at age 88. Ozawa died of heart failure Tuesday at his home in Tokyo, according to his office, Veroza Japan. The internationally acclaimed maestro led the BSO from 1973 to 2002, longer than any conductor in the orchestra's history, the AP reports. From 2002 to 2010, he was the music director of the Vienna State Opera. He remained active in his later years, particularly in Japan. Ozawa was the artistic director and founder of the Seiji Ozawa Matsumoto Festival, a music and opera festival in Japan. He and the Saito Kinen Orchestra, which he co-founded, won the Grammy for best opera recording in 2016 for Ravel's "L'Enfant et Les Sortileges (The Child and the Spells)." In 2022, he conducted his Seiji Ozawa Matsumoto Festival to mark its 30th anniversary, which was his last public performance. That year, Ozawa conducted the Saito Kinen Orchestra to deliver Beethoven's "Egmont" Overture live to Japanese astronaut Koichi Wakata at the International Space Station. The event took place just as the world was divided over the coronavirus pandemic. "Music can link the hearts of peopletranscending words, borders, religion, and politics," Ozawa said in a statement at the time. Ozawa exerted enormous influence over the BSO during his tenure. He appointed 74 of its 104 musicians, and his celebrity attracted performers including Yo-Yo Ma and Itzhak Perlman. He helped the symphony become the biggest-budget orchestra in the world, with an endowment that grew from less than $10 million in the early 1970s to more than $200 million in 2002. When Ozawa conducted the Boston orchestra in 2006four years after he had lefthe received a nearly six-minute ovation. Messages of condolence poured in from around the world, including orchestras in Vienna and Berlin, musicians, and residents of Matsumoto. Japanese maestro Yutaka Sado told NHK that Ozawa inspired him to be a conductor: "I've kept following his back, but I could never catch up with him no matter how hard I tried." (More obituary stories.) Students who don't like their Texas school's new cellphone policy carried out a series of protests over the past week, and now their district's superintendent is warning of repercussions. Chron.com reports that "hundreds" of students at James Madison High School in Houston protested in front of the school on Thursday, some holding signs that read "We are high school kids, not cellmates" and "You are not here to imprison us or confine us. Free us." Thursday's demonstration came after a protest-spurred lockdown on Friday and a walkout on Monday, following the recent announcement that student cellphones were barred. A rep for the Houston Independent School District tells Chron.com that, under the new policy, students at the high school can't simply keep their phones in their backpacks during the school day, as many other schools mandate: Instead, they have to turn them in to staff and pick them up at day's end. They're also not allowed to use them at lunch. Edgar Contreras, the high school's principal, implemented the policy to help stop fighting on the school's campus, as kids were apparently recording fights on their phones, then sharing it with others. Kids at the school, however, say the phone ban is unconstitutional and called the school's culture akin to being in prison. "I don't even feel safe," student Madison Rittenhouse tells KTRK. "I really do want to have a good education ... [but] they're making this really hard for us." It may soon get even harder for some: HISD Superintendent Mike Miles warned Thursday that students who protest could face suspension. "Walking out is dangerous for kids, and adults outside the system should not be encouraging that," Miles said, per the Houston Chronicle. "It's not safe, and encouraging that kind of behavior is irresponsible for adults, especially adults who are not in the school." A state education official sides with the new policy. "You have to create a learning environment that allows students to focus," Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath tells KTRK. (More cellphones stories.) Section 3 of the 14th Amendment bars from holding public office any "officer of the United States" who took an oath "to support the Constitution of the United States" and then "engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same or given aid or comfort to the enemies thereof." Justices - conservatives and liberals alike - expressed concern during the argument about states taking sweeping actions that could impact a presidential election nationwide. They pondered how states can properly enforce the Section 3 disqualification language against candidates, with several wondering whether Congress must first pass legislation do enable that. The Supreme Court's 6-3 conservative majority includes three justices appointed by Trump. Conservative Chief Justice John Roberts told Jason Murray, the lawyer representing four Republican voters and two unaffiliated voters who sued to keep Trump off the Colorado ballot, that if the judicial decision were to be upheld, other states would proceed with disqualification proceedings of their own against either Democratic or Republican candidates. "It'll come down to just a handful of states that are going to decide the presidential election. That's a pretty daunting consequence," Roberts said. Anti-Trump forces have sought to disqualify him in more than two dozen other states - a mostly unsuccessful effort - over his actions relating to the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack. But Maine also has barred Trump from its ballot, a decision on hold pending the Supreme Court's Colorado ruling. "I think that the question that you have to confront is why a single state should decide who gets to be president of the United States," liberal Justice Elena Kagan told Murray. "This question of whether a former president is disqualified for insurrection to be president again... it sounds awfully national to me." Conservative Justice Brett Kavanaugh, a Trump appointee, focused on the impact to democracy if states under Section 3 can block candidates from their ballots under Section 3. "Think about the right of the people to elect candidates of their choice, of letting the people decide, because your position has the effect of disenfranchising voters to a significant degree," Kavanaugh told Murray. Murray offered a blunt reply: "The reason we're here is that President Trump tried to disenfranchise 80 million Americans who voted against him, and the Constitution doesn't require that he be given another chance." Trump supporters attacked police and swarmed the Capitol in a bid to prevent Congress from certifying Biden's 2020 election victory. Trump gave an incendiary speech to supporters beforehand, telling them to go to the Capitol and "fight like hell." He then for hours rebuffed requests that he urge the mob to stop. The 14th Amendment was ratified following the American Civil War of 1861-1865 in which seceding Southern states that allowed the practice of slavery rebelled against the US government. "The framers of Section 3 knew from painful experience that those who had violently broken their oaths to the Constitution," Murray said, referring to the officials of the seceding states, "couldn't be trusted to hold power again because they could dismantle our constitutional democracy from within." Roberts asked Jonathan Mitchell, Trump's lawyer, whether a state's top elections official could disqualify a candidate who comes forward and says he took the oath mentioned in the provision and engaged in an insurrection. "If the candidate is an admitted insurrectionist, Section 3 still allows the candidate to run for office and even win election to office - and then see whether Congress lifts that disability after the election," Mitchell said. 'I'm a believer' Following the arguments, Trump in remarks in Florida said he listened to the proceedings and "thought our arguments were very, very strong." Trump, who sought to portray the case as part of a broader effort by Democrats to keep him off the ballot, indicated he felt disqualification was unlikely. "I'm a believer in our country and I'm a believer of the Supreme Court," Trump said. The Supreme Court last played such a central role in a presidential contest in 2000, when its landmark Bush v. Gore decision handed Republican George W. Bush the presidency over Democrat Al Gore. The justices debated the applicability of an 1869 decision authored by then-Chief Justice Salmon Chase - albeit while he presided on a lower court - in determining how a Section 3 disqualification may now be enforced. Kavanaugh suggested to Mitchell that Chase's decision, which found that congressional legislation was necessary to enforce Section 3, is "highly probative" of Section 3's meaning. The justices spent little time on January 6 or Trump's role in those events, though liberal Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson did press Mitchell on whether the attack was an insurrection. "Your point is that a chaotic effort to overthrow the government is not an insurrection?" Jackson asked. "This was a riot. It was not an insurrection," Mitchell told Jackson. "The events were shameful, criminal, violent, all of those things, but did not qualify as an insurrection as that term is used in Section 3." Reuters Police in Australia's Victoria may bring in homicide investigators on Friday to probe the disappearance of a missing jogger. Officers were keeping an open mind but days after Samantha Murphy's disappearance, concern was growing about what had happened to her. The search to find the mum-of-three has now entered day six. Homicide detectives from the specialised "missing persons squad" could now be called upon to analyse the case, the Herald Sun reported on Friday. The newspaper said such officers were called in for investigations into potential foul play where a body hadn't been located. On Thursday, Murphy's daughter made a heartbreaking plea to the public to help find her mum. "I know she's out there somewhere," an emotional Jess Murphy told reporters. "So, if you could please continue to search for her - to give us something to work with - we'd really appreciate it. HAIKOU, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Hainan, south China's tropical island province, has released a biodiversity conservation strategy and action plan, calling for the restoration of 30 percent of its degraded ecosystems by 2030. It is the first provincial strategic plan on biodiversity conservation, following China's biodiversity conservation plan issued by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment last month. Hainan is poised to ensure a natural coastline retention rate of more than 63 percent, according to the plan. The plan also proposes that Hainan will complete the terrestrial biodiversity background survey by 2030, and build a biodiversity monitoring network and supervision platform covering the whole province. Thirty percent of terrestrial, inland-water, coastal and marine ecosystems will be effectively protected. Hainan has set a good example for biodiversity conservation in China thanks to its conservation initiatives over the years. The province is one of 34 biodiversity hotspots globally, and boasts the most well-preserved and extensive contiguous tropical rainforests in China. It is also the sole habitat of the Hainan gibbon, the rarest primate worldwide, which has been declared critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. According to preliminary statistics, there are 4,367 species of higher plants and 651 species of wild vertebrates in the Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park, one of the first five national parks established in China. Previously, the tropical island issued relevant measures to improve marine natural reserves, including strengthening the preservation of concentrated distribution areas of natural coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds, as well as enhancing the protection level of rare and endangered species, such as Chinese white dolphins, green turtles, hawksbill turtles and tridacna. We have used your information to see if you have a subscription with us, but did not find one. Please use the button below to verify an existing account or to purchase a new subscription. TDT | Manama The Daily Tribune www.newsofbahrain.com His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, yesterday sent cables of congratulations to Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev on re-election. HM the King and HRH Prince Salman wished President Aliyev continued success in carrying out his presidential duties to achieve the aspirations of the Azeri people for further progress and prosperity. His Royal Highness commended the depth of the Bahrain-Azerbaijan relations, affirming the Kingdoms commitment to continue developing ties with Azerbaijan, as well as bolster bilateral cooperation and coordination to achieve common interests. Agencies | Riyadh The Daily Tribune www.newsofbahrain.com Minister of Finance and National Economy, His Excellency Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, stressed the importance of consolidating financial and economic cooperation relations between Bahrain and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This came as the two kingdoms signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for cooperation in the finance sector between the Ministry of Finance and National Economy and the Saudi Ministry of Finance, and an MoU in economics and planning between the Ministry of Finance and National Economy and the Saudi Ministry of Economy and Planning, within the framework of the third meeting of the Saudi-Bahraini Coordination Council. Shaikh Salman praised the deep-rooted and historic Bahraini-Saudi relations and their constant development in various sectors, under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques. He hailed the support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in strengthening cooperation and working towards more integration. The minister stressed the importance of MoUs in consolidating financial and economic cooperation relations between the two kingdoms, highlighting the role of the Saudi-Bahraini Coordination Council in enhancing joint work to build on previous achievements. Energy partnership Bahrain and Saudi Arabia signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for cooperation in the energy sector between the Ministry of Oil and Environment and the Saudi Ministry of Energy, within the framework of the third meeting of the Saudi-Bahraini Coordination Council. The MoU aimed at fostering cooperation in this vital sector to develop innovative plans towards digital transformation in the sector, in addition to developing partnerships to nationalise materials, products and services, as well as developing standards and relevant regulations and benefiting from expertise and modern technological systems. It includes cooperation in developing various fields, including, oil, gas, electricity, renewable energy, energy efficiency, and petrochemicals. Major sectors The two countries also signed cooperation deals in the education, health, legal, and media sectors, and for Intellectual Property, regarding the Patent Application Fast Track Examination (FTE) Programme. TDT | Manama The Daily Tribune www.newsofbahrain.com Minister of Finance and National Economy, His Excellency Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, has affirmed the pivotal role played by the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) in supporting and developing the national financial and banking policies in a way that enhances the Kingdoms position in this sector, which contributes to improving its performance. Shaikh Salman praised the financial and banking sectors prominent role in developing the national economy, stressing the kingdoms interest in developing this sector and creating more promising investment opportunities, which will contribute to achieving the goals of the comprehensive development process, led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. The Minister was speaking while meeting H.E. CBB Governor Rasheed Al Maraj. He commended the efforts exerted by Al Maraj throughout his tenure as CBB Governor, wishing him continued success. Rasheed Al Maraj expressed thanks and appreciation to the minister for the support accorded to him during his tenure, wishing CBB officials continued success. Bahrain-EU ties Shaikh Salman highlighted the steady growth of the kingdoms relations with the European Union (EU) countries across various fields, stressing the two sides keenness to continue developing their ties to achieve their common goals. While meeting H.E. Christophe Varno, the EU Ambassador to Bahrain, the minister highlighted the advanced level reached by the Bahrain-EU cooperation at all levels, particularly in the financial and economic fields. He underlined the importance of pushing bilateral relations further towards more fruitful cooperation and joint coordination. The two sides also discussed ways to bolster the Bahrain-EU financial and economic cooperation, in addition to topics of common interest. TDT | Manama The Daily Tribune www.newsofbahrain.com Ahli United Bank B.S.C. (AUB) announced its participation in the third edition of the Housing Finance Exhibition, scheduled for February 8th to 17th, 2024, at City Centre Bahrain. The Bank intends to showcase an array of Sharia-compliant financing options designed to facilitate property acquisition for potential homeowners. Visitors to the exhibition will be greeted by AUB representatives eager to assist them in matching their chosen properties with suitable financing plans. These plans boast flexible terms, including financing tenors stretching up to 30 years, coverage of up to 120% of property value, competitive profit rates and fees, special fee waivers, streamlined processing, and adjustable financing amounts. It is important to note that terms and conditions apply. The offered financing solutions encompass the purchase of land or property, including those categorized as Social Housing. Recognizing the significance of homeownership aspirations, Suvrat Saigal, Deputy Group Chief Executive Officer Retail Banking at AUB, expressed the Banks delight in participating in the exhibition for the third consecutive year. He stated, This event serves as a valuable platform for us to connect with potential homeowners and present our comprehensive suite of Sharia-compliant financing solutions. We are steadfast in our commitment to enhancing the accessibility of homeownership for all Bahrainis, and we are confident that our offerings, coupled with our expert guidance and personalized service, will empower our customers to realize their dream of owning a home. Through its participation in the Housing Finance Exhibition, AUB aims to empower individuals in Bahrain to achieve their homeownership aspirations by providing them with convenient and adaptable financing solutions. Dubai is preparing to host the 2024 World Governments Summit (WGS) that will witness the wide participation of Asian countries, which, the organiser emphasised, are vital to international discussions to create a better future for humanity, a report said. WGS, a prominent international platform for envisioning the development of tools and policies that will shape the governments of the future, will host high-level delegations from Asian governments and witness the attendance of leaders and heads of Asian organisations and institutions, Emirates News Agency, WAM, said. The WGS 2024 edition will feature six main themes and 15 forums. It will host over 23 ministerial meetings and roundtables, 85 international, regional and intergovernmental organisations, and more than 120 interactive sessions and workshops. Moreover, 200 prominent figures, including heads of state, ministers, experts, thinkers, and decision-makers, will take part in the event. GAZIANTEP, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Nineteen-year-old Semih Birsat Orcan had big dreams for the future before his home, school and life were destroyed by a powerful earthquake that struck the southern part of Turkiye on Feb. 6 last year. "I was preparing for the university entrance exam in the year of the earthquake, but after the disaster, there was no house, no classroom, no place left to study," Orcan told Xinhua in a recent interview in Gaziantep. After the earthquakes, life was hard for Orcan who lives in a cramped container with his family. Thanks to the extensive support from a training center in the Nurdagi district of the Gaziantep province, Orcan is now trying to pick up his life. "After my teachers told me about this center, I decided to take the exam this year and pursue my goals," Orcan said. He has created a physical and psychological living space in this center. "We can call this center our home," he said. "I'm not alone here. I have friends. We have a library. All are extra motivations to us." The center is a part of the "social entrepreneurship, empowerment, and cohesion project" jointly established by the Gaziantep governorship and a development agency. Emine Kurulur, a counselor at the center, told Xinhua that the center also offers several courses for adults and children covering many subjects, including chess and robotic coding. "All the students here used to live in containers and do not have the opportunity to find a place to study, so they actively use this center," Kurulur said. Sila Kudailga, another student at the center, remembered the night of the devastating earthquake. "The night of February 6 was a disaster for us," Kudailga said. "We lost our home and everything, close friends, teachers, acquaintances, and the environment. We psychologically collapsed." The two powerful earthquakes devastated more than 10 provinces in the southern part of Turkiye, claiming the lives of over 53,000 people and leaving millions of people homeless and displaced. She said the center offered great motivations to earthquake survivors. "As such structures and centers were opened, we recovered a little bit," Kudailga said. "Otherwise, preparing for the university exam would only be a distant dream for us...Our future will hopefully be better than our past." MONTREAL, Feb. 9, 2024 /CNW/ - Mila - Quebec Artificial Intelligence Institute invites media representatives to a world-class conference that focuses on the critical efforts needed to incorporate human rights into artificial intelligence (AI) governance mechanisms. This event will take place from February 14 to 16, 2024, in Montreal. Mila is convening top officials from the United Nations, the OECD, UNESCO, and leading experts from academia, civil society and industry to discuss the intersection of human rights and AI governance, for the first time as part of an official event. WHAT Conference Protecting Human Rights in the Age of AI WHEN February 14 to 16, 2024 WHERE Mila's Agora, 6650 Saint-Urbain Street, Montreal Webcast available on February 14 only (link will be provided upon request) The agenda highlights suggest that the opening day and the latter half of the second day will be of particular interest to members of the press. The full program is available here . (Note: all times local, EST) DAY 1 FEBRUARY 14, 2024: 5:00 p.m. : Welcome by Valerie Pisano, President and CEO, Mila : by Valerie Pisano, President and CEO, Mila 5:10 p.m. : Opening remarks by Amandeep Singh Gill , United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Tech Envoy : by , United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Tech Envoy 5:25 p.m. : Keynote How relevant are human rights in the age of AI by Alondra Nelson , Harold F. Linder Professor at the Institute for Advanced Study and former Acting Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy and former Deputy Assistant to US President Joe Biden : by , Harold F. Linder Professor at the Institute for Advanced Study and former Acting Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy and former Deputy Assistant to US President 5:50 p.m. : Panel discussion with Yoshua Bengio , Full Professor, Universite de Montreal and Founder and Scientific Director, Mila, Alondra Nelson & Amandeep Singh Gill DAY 2 FEBRUARY 15, 2024. Highlights include: 10:15 a.m. : Panel Tools to integrate human rights in AI governance with Eliza Aspen (Amnesty International), Wanda Munoz (Feminist AI Research Network), Clara Neppel (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) & Elham Tabassi (National Institute of Standards & Technology) : with (Amnesty International), (Feminist AI Research Network), (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) & (National Institute of Standards & Technology) 11:45 a.m. : Lightning talk AI and human rights protection in Europe's new AI Act by Gry Hasselbalch (European Union's International Outreach for a Human-Centric Approach to AI initiative) : by Gry Hasselbalch (European Union's International Outreach for a Human-Centric Approach to AI initiative) 1:15 p.m. : Panel Avenues of redress to protect human rights with Aziz Huq (Chicago Law School), Jake Okechukwu Effoduh ( Toronto Metropolitan University), Fanny Hidvegi (Access Now) & Nele Roekens (Belgian National Human Rights Institution & Equality Body) : with (Chicago Law School), Jake Okechukwu Effoduh ( Metropolitan University), Fanny Hidvegi (Access Now) & (Belgian National Human Rights Institution & Equality Body) 3:15 p.m. : Panel Creating momentum for human rights safeguards in international AI governance with Patrick Penninckx (Council of Europe ), Karine Perset (OECD), Virginia Dignum (University of Umea), Neema Lugangira (Government of Tanzania ) & Cedric Wachholz (UNESCO) : with Patrick Penninckx (Council of ), Karine Perset (OECD), (University of Umea), Neema Lugangira (Government of ) & Cedric Wachholz (UNESCO) 5:15 p.m. : Closing remarks by Benjamin Prud 'homme (Mila) DAY 3 FEBRUARY 16, 2024 Policy working groups (closed to media) SOURCE Mila - Quebec AI Institute For further information: Select spokespersons and speakers will be available for interviews upon request. To confirm your attendance, or for more information, please contact Eric Aach: [email protected] Troops in elite commando units of the Israel Defense Forces are increasing attacks on Hamas targets in western Khan Yunis ahead of the looming invasion of Rafah, the terror groups last stronghold in Gaza. On Wednesday evening, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the IDF would be conducting intense combat operations in Rafah after wrapping up warfare in Khan Yunis. We have instructed the IDF to prepare to operate in Rafah and the two central camps, Netanyahu said at a press conference in Jerusalem, describing Gazas southernmost city as Hamass main bastion. #Gaza map update: The #IDF has continued to expand operations west of Khan Yunis, entering further neighbourhoods at the edge of the Humanitarian zone. They have also reached the Al-Amal Hospital in Khan Yunis. pic.twitter.com/5A558s3u2u War Mapper (@War_Mapper) January 30, 2024 Institute for the Study of War Feb 8, 2024 Key Takeaways on Gaza and Iran related combat. Northern Gaza Strip: Palestinian fighters are continuing to infiltrate previously cleared areas. Southern Gaza Strip: The Israel Defense Forces 98th Division continued to conduct clearing operations in Khan Younis. Political Negotiations: Israel reportedly proposed to the United States exiling the leader of Hamas in the Gaza Strip, Yahya Sinwar, in exchange for Hamas returning all hostages and an end to the Hamas government in the Gaza Strip. West Bank: Israeli forces clashed with Palestinian fighters in two locations. Southern Lebanon and Golan Heights: Iranian-backed militias, including Lebanese Hezbollah, conducted 10 attacks from southern Lebanon into northern Israel. Iraq: Iranian-backed Iraqi actors are continuing to exploit US military operations in Iraq to amplify pressure on the Mohammad Shia al Sudani administration to expel US forces from Iraq. Syria: An unspecified Iraqi militia group conducted a drone strike targeting US forces at the al Omar oil field in Deir ez Zor Province, according to regional and local Syrian outlets. Yemen: The United States conducted self-defense strikes targeting Houthi missile sites in Yemen. After Defeating the Standup Hamas Khan Yunis Battalion There Will Still Be Hidden Hamas Units There will still be Hamas fighters after the fall of Khan Yunis. There will be undiscovered underground tunnel sections where units will hide and then emerge to fight. There are major Hamas elements in Rafah and the central areas. Lower intensity combat is still happening in the North despite IDF taking the north over a month ago. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is talking with leaders of the UAE and elsewhere for $7 Trillion for a new AI Chip company. The WSJ report indicates Sam wants to raise money and then ask TSMC to build factories. Sam must believe that a new class of chip is needed that will build a sustainable advantage for superAI. In 2023, the sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) reached a record high of $4.1 trillion (Dh15 trillion) in assets. This is a 20% increase over the past two years. Sam is asking for almost all of the Middle Eastern Sovereign Wealth funds. Sam Altman is looking to raise $7 trillion, or nearly 10% of global GDP, for an AI chip company. It's hard to comprehend, but no person would even consider this unless they achieved something that will fundamentally reshape the entire world. And people think AI is in a bubble, pic.twitter.com/dlfRaF3afo Rowan Cheung (@rowancheung) February 9, 2024 $7 Trillion is more than: -11.5 Teslas -7 Metas -4 NVIDIAs -3.75 Googles -2.5 Microsofts and this is just fundraising for a company that doesn't even exist yet. Hey @sama, how can buy in? https://t.co/cujKqZxDAC Rowan Cheung (@rowancheung) February 9, 2024 With 7 Trillion, Sam Altman can buy: Nvidia = 1.77 trillion TSMC = 690 billion Broadcom = 598 billion ASML = 375 billion Samsung = 370 billion AMD = 278 billion Intel = 183 billion Qualcomm = 168 billion Applied Materials = 154 billion Texas Instruments = 148 billion Lam pic.twitter.com/UDFmucLXpG Chief AI Officer (@chiefaioffice) February 9, 2024 WASHINGTON, D.C., June 29, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Photo taken on June 29, 2023 shows the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington, D.C., the United States. (Xinhua/Liu Jie) Colorado contended that Trump's supporters on Jan. 6, at Trump's behest, tried to prevent Congress from certifying current President Joe Biden's win, during a protest at the Capitol building. Trump's supporters maintain that Jan. 6 was simply a riot, no different from the over 500 riots that occurred in the name of social justice in 2020. by Matthew Rusling WASHINGTON, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday heard arguments over whether former President Donald Trump can legally run for president in November. This occurred after the Colorado Supreme Court ruled in December that Trump would be kicked off the ballot for engaging in what has been labeled an attempt to overthrow the government on Jan. 6, 2021. Colorado argued that the former president was in breach of the 14th Amendment of the Constitution, which prevents anyone who has engaged in "insurrection" from running for public office. Colorado contended that Trump's supporters on Jan. 6, at Trump's behest, tried to prevent Congress from certifying current President Joe Biden's win, during a protest at the Capitol building. They labeled the event an "insurrection." Trump's supporters maintain that Jan. 6 was simply a riot, no different from the over 500 riots that occurred in the name of social justice in 2020. They argue that Trump did not direct any of the events that occurred that day and that the charges are an attempt to use the courts for political purposes. COURT STEERS AWAY FROM KICKING TRUMP OFF BALLOT The U.S. Supreme Court appeared to steer away from the Colorado decision, with both liberal and conservative judges expressing concern. The justices said Colorado's decision, if upheld, could have "extraordinary" ramifications. Chief Justice John Roberts said this would enable a single state to control the entire national election. He added that if Colorado is allowed to bar Trump from the election, it could later backfire on Democrats. "I would expect that a goodly number of states will say: 'Whoever the Democratic candidate is, you're off the ballot,'" Roberts said. "That's a pretty daunting consequence." Justice Elena Kagan said allowing a single state to determine the entire presidential election would be "extraordinary." "Why should a single state have the ability to make this determination, not only for their own citizens, but for the rest of the nation?" Kagan asked. Liberal justices also expressed worry over whether kicking Trump off the ballot could have negative consequences. Liberal Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson said: "My question is why the framers would have designed a system that would -- could -- result in interim disuniformity in this way?" Brookings Institution senior fellow Darrell West told Xinhua: "Several justices expressed doubt about the effort to disqualify Trump from the presidential ballot." "They say it sets a precedent of allowing an individual state to outlaw particular candidates," West said. "It appears doubtful the Supreme Court will remove Trump from the election," West said. Christopher Galdieri, a political science professor at Saint Anselm College in the northeastern state of New Hampshire, told Xinhua the Supreme Court "generally seems unhappy about having to be involved with this case." Clay Ramsay, a researcher at the Center for International and Security Studies at the University of Maryland, told Xinhua: "I would give odds of four in five that the Supreme Court will rule that Trump can run for president, and that the states can't claim their multiple jurisdictions here." IMPACT ON ELECTION Trump maintains that his detractors will stop at nothing to keep him off the ballot this year. The several court cases filed against him are purely an attempt to prevent him from running, he said. That narrative plays well with many in Trump's base, who believe the American political establishment has destroyed their jobs and is trying to destroy their way of life. Trump's base views the billionaire businessman as a maverick and a political outsider who backs their values and agrees that Washington elites do not have the best interest of the public in mind. Galdieri said the Supreme Court case may boost Trump's popularity somewhat among his most dedicated supporters. West said: "The issue of his qualifications for the job and respect for the law likely will be left to American voters to decide." The Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, disclosed on Friday that rampaging bandits terrorising some parts of the state are threatening to attack him. The governor made this known during an expanded emergency security council meeting at the Government House. He stated that the bandits threat was based on security reports. Speaking in Hausa, Radda said: Based on security reports that we are receiving, I am among those that the bandits are thinking of attacking, but that doesnt muddle me because God is with us, and he will protect us. However, the governor explained that the threat by the hoodlums would not stop his government from adopting revolving security strategies to tackle banditry and other security challenges in the state. The security meeting had in attendance the heads of security agencies in the state, traditional and religious leaders, top government officials and members of the business community and was still going at time of filing this report. The Assistant Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Edo State, Victor Osehobo, has dismissed reports that the Edo North Senator, Adams Oshiomhole was imposing the preferred governorship aspirant of President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima ahead of the partys primary election, scheduled for February 17. Osehobo said the reports of Oshiomhole imposing a preferred candidate was baseless, stressing that the lawmaker was a lover of due process. Speaking in Benin, the Edo State capital yesterday, Osehobo said the reports were aimed at creating chaos ahead of the primary elections. He said: The many paid articles in mushroom publications about Edo APC reveals a laughable lack of understanding of the transparent process through which a candidate emerges. Allegations of Sen. Oshiomhole endorsing and imposing a preferred governorship aspirant are baseless, considering the direct primary process yet to take place. Accusing Sen. Oshiomhole of urging the spread of endorsements from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice-President Kashim Shettima and the National Chairman of APC, Abdullahi Ganduje, is a desperate attempt to create chaos. With the primary screening starting today (yesterday), the timing of these allegations raises suspicion. The absurdity of claiming secret meetings with former commissioners, Kassim Afegbua and Mika Amanokha, orchestrated by Oshiomhole, is beyond belief. Where and when did this alleged gathering occur? The accessibility of Afegbua and Amanokha raises questions about why they were not directly approached for clarification. URUMQI, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Zeynepgul Abdurahman and her family, along with their friends in Kashgar, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, are anticipating the upcoming Chinese Lunar New Year with renewed excitement, as the ancient city has been earmarked as one of the branch venues for the popular CCTV Spring Festival Gala. "We've agreed to watch the Spring Festival Gala together on New Year's Eve," said Zeynepgul Abdurahman. Local resident Xing Zhenzhen expressed her hope to see more high-tech elements incorporated into the upcoming gala, while also wishing for the Year of the Dragon to bring warmth, hope and strength. Scheduled for Feb. 9, the 2024 CCTV Spring Festival Gala is being planned across the country, with the main venue in Beijing and branch venues in Xinjiang and provinces of Liaoning, Hunan and Shaanxi. In anticipation of the most important traditional Chinese festival, Kashgar has been meticulously decorated. The main thoroughfares are adorned with over 40,000 strings of lights, as well as more than 50,000 lanterns and Chinese knots, enhancing the charm of the ancient city's scenic spots when illuminated at night. Jiao Junfeng, a staffer at the city's administration bureau, said that the entire city will dazzle after dark. Wang Zhi, Kashgar's deputy mayor, also noted that the urban management, electricity, telecommunications and fire departments have collaborated to ensure that the gala runs smoothly. Amidst the festive atmosphere, Kashgar has witnessed a surge in tourism. "We like Kashgar very much, therefore, we will spend the Spring Festival holiday here," said Wu Chunyan, a tourist from northeastern Liaoning Province, adding it was her second time visiting Kashgar. According to local tourism authorities, Kashgar prefecture boasts nearly 700 hotels, with the Kashgar city alone offering over 400 hotels, guesthouses and homestays, totaling more than 40,000 beds to accommodate tourists' needs. Vladimir Putin, president of Russia, says defeating his country in the ongoing war with Ukraine is "impossible by definition". Putin spoke during a two-hour interview with Tucker Carlson, former Fox News host, that was conducted in Moscow and aired on tuckercarlson.com on Thursday. Putin spoke in Russian and his remarks were translated to English. According to Putin, the West has acknowledged the impossibility of inflicting a "strategic defeat" on Russia and is unsure what to do next. "Up until now, there has been the uproar and screaming about inflicting a strategic defeat to Russia on the battlefield. But now they are apparently coming to realise that it is difficult to achieve, if possible, at all," he said. "In my opinion, it is impossible by definition. It is never going to happen. It seems to me that now those who are in power in the West have come to realise this as well." The Russian leader added that the only peaceful resolution to the war, which is nearing its two-year mark, would be if the US stopped supplying weapons to Ukraine. "I will tell you what we are saying on this matter and what we are conveying to the US leadership," Putin told Carlson. "If you really want to stop fighting, you need to stop supplying weapons. It will be over within a few weeks, that's it, and then we can agree on some terms. Before you do that, stop." Putin said he has "never refused" to negotiate with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, but insisted that Moscow has not yet achieved its goals in Ukraine, including "de-Nazification". "We have never refused negotiations indeed. We hear all the time, is Russia ready? Yes," he said. "We have not refused. It was them who publicly refused. Well, let him cancel his decree [not to negotiate with Russia] and enter into negotiations. We have never refused." The Russian president also said he had "no interest" in attacking Poland or Latvia, saying he would only do so if either country were to attack Russia first. THE JAILED REPORTER Asked about Evan Gershkovich, the Wall Street Journal reporter who has been in a Russian prison for almost a year, Putin said he would not "rule out" returning the journalist to the US, provided the US takes "reciprocal steps". Russia had accused Gershkovich of being an American spy, but Washington said the allegations were "baseless". This is Putin's first interview with an American journalist since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The police have arraigned six traders before a court for allegedly assaulting and blackmailing Lizzy Anjorin, the actress. Reports on Monday claimed Anjorin stole gold in a market in Lagos Island. Other reports alleged that the actress made a fake transaction after buying goods worth N91,000 from a store inside the market. In a now-viral video, the film star was seen sitting in a store while attempting to defend herself. But on Thursday, the police arraigned six traders before the chief magistrate court in Lagos Island. The defendants, identified as Qudus Jokogbola, Suru Olawale, Edu Shakirat, Fausat Mohammed, Kafayat Ahmed, and Opere Simiat Morenike were accused of assaulting the actress. Sola Samuel, the prosecuting counsel, said the defendants conspired to forcefully push and drag Anjorin, causing her grievous bodily harm around 1:30 pm on Monday inside Oba Akintoye Market in Lagos Island. Samuel told the court that the defendants actions caused a breach of public peace. He added that their actions violated sections 411 and 413; 168(d) and 170(b) of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2015, and are punishable under the same Act. All defendants, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges. Ade Oshodi, the representative of the defendants, prayed the court to grant them bail in the most liberal terms, stating they were traders. In his ruling, A.A. Paul, the presiding magistrate, granted each defendant bail in the sum of N200,000 with one surety each. The sureties must be Lagos residents with evidence of tax payment. He ordered that the defendants be remanded in the Nigerian Correctional Services until they meet their bail terms. The case was adjourned till March 11 for mention. Anjorin had previously denied the allegations, adding that the video was a setup against her. President Bola Tinubu has signed the Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill 2024 into law. Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President, disclosed this in a statement on Friday. The House of Representatives passed the bill on July 27, 2023, and the Senate followed suit on November 14, 2023. The bill was sponsored by Babajimi Benson, representing Ikorodu federal constituency of Lagos State. Accordingly, the Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill 2024 seeks to address the development and environmental concerns of host communities and sets aside five per cent of the actual annual operating expenditures of power-generating companies (GenCos) from the preceding year for the development of their respective host communities. The bill further provides that the funds set aside for the development of host communities will be received, managed, and administered for infrastructure development in the host communities by a reputable trustee or manager to be jointly appointed by the respective GenCos and their host community. The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, on Friday said the union does not enjoy embarking on industrial actions despite issuing ultimatums. The NLC Head of International Relations, Uchenna Ekwe, said the union only wants the right thing to be done and not embark on persistent industrial action. Recall that both NLC and the Trade Union Congress, TUC, had issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to fulfil the 16-point agreement with the workers since October last year. The ultimatum had elicited negative reactions from some Nigerians who faulted the NLC for opting for strike amid the economic hardship. Reacting, Ekwe said they only issue an ultimatum when the government fails to meet up with the unions reminders. Featuring on Channels Televisions The Morning Brief, Ekwe said: Usually people see when NLC starts putting warning and if you notice the comments, people will say we dont want a strike, it will disrupt. Balancing all these, Let me make this clear, the NLC is actually never interested in a strike, we dont want a strike; we want the right things to be done. Before you see us issue a public ultimatum, there must have been many communications that are not meant public to the government system calling their attention to probably an agreement like in this case. Authorities investigated a bomb threat on Friday afternoon and concluded that there was no threat to the public, the Bergen County Prosecutors Office said. The threat was reported near the 500 block of Anderson Avenue in Cliffside Park at 12:41 p.m., officials said. Bomb squads conducted a sweep of the neighborhood and advised residents to avoid the area for about five hours. The area was deemed safe for residents by about 5:30 p.m., the prosecutors office said. Anderson Avenue is the main road in Cliffside Park, with a shopping district and residential homes. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com. A 70-year-old Bergen County man was arrested Thursday after investigators searched his home as part of a months-long internet child pornography investigation, authorities said. Rob Wolfson, of Ridgewood, was charged with second-degree possession of child pornography and held at the Bergen County Jail to await a court appearance. The investigation revealed that Wolfson used the internet to view, download and possess items depicting nude and/or sexually explicit prepubescent and pubescent children, Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella said in a statement. Musella said the prosecutors office obtained a search warrant for Wolfsons home before arresting him in Paramus. Investigators discovered more than 1,000 but less than 100,000 items depicting child sexual abuse, according to an affidavit of probable cause. Seized from Wolfsons home were 21 electronics, the affidavit states. Ridgewood and Washington Township police, along with investigators from the New York City Police Department, aided in the investigation, Musella said. Attorney information for Wolfson was not immediately available. Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on X @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook. A water main break in East Rutherford early Friday led to the closure of two Route 3 East traffic lanes and the shoulder near the Meadowlands Sports Complex during the morning commute. The break was reported at 12:34 a.m. near MetLife Stadium. Cell phone video obtained by ABC7ny.com showed water gushing high above the roadway. Around 6 a.m., news helicopter video showed workers breaking up the highway as traffic backed up for miles. Eastbound traffic near the western spur of the New Jersey Turnpike was diverted onto a service road during the commute. Additionally, NJ Transit bus service on Route 3 was delayed as buses were redirected to use Route 80. Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on X @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook. A Burlington County woman who worked as a substitute teacher was charged with aggravated sexual assault of a 14-year-old in Gloucester Township, the Camden County Prosecutors office said Thursday. Rebecca Coddington, 27, of Browns Mills was charged with two counts of first-degree aggravated sexual assault, six counts of second-degree sexual assault, two counts of third-degree aggravated criminal sexual contact and two counts of third-degree endangering the welfare of a child. Prosecutors did not say how Coddington knew the alleged victim. Coddington was a substitute teacher in the Runnemede public school district in Camden County, authorities said. The prosecutors office said no allegations have been raised involving any students in Runnemede. An investigation by the Camden County Prosecutors Office Special Victims unit and Gloucester Township Police Department revealed Coddington sexually assaulted the 14-year-old girl multiple times at a private residence between September 2019 and Dec. 29 of last year. Coddington was arrested in Gloucester Township on Feb. 5 and is being held at the Camden County Correctional Facility pending a detention hearing on Friday. A defense attorney for Coddington could not be immediately reached for comment Thursday. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Matthew Enuco may be reached at Menuco@njadvancemedia.com. Follow Matt on X A grand jury has indicted a Cumberland County school custodian on charges that he intentionally contaminated food and cafeteria utensils with urine, feces and bleach. Giovanni A. Impellizzeri, 26, of Vineland, worked at Elizabeth F. Moore School in Upper Deerfield, where authorities say he urinated in mixing bowls, put feces in food, rubbed his genitals and anus on bread, sprayed bleach in a container of cucumbers and performed sex acts with items at the school, according to prosecutors. He claimed he committed the acts to make children sick and because it sexually aroused him, prosecutors stated during a November court hearing. He has since been fired from the district, where he had worked since 2019. Authorities said the custodian shared videos of his actions at the school, which they believe occurred in late October of last year, on a messaging app. An anonymous tipster shared his posts with school officials. Impellizzeri boasted about his actions in a chat group with about a thousand members, prosecutors said. While talking about spraying bleach on food, Impellizzeri allegedly wrote, The more eviler and f up the better, and also stated, Honestly, Ive put bleach in their food before. They were fine. Just a little sick. Oh well, not my problem, Assistant Prosecutor Lindsey Seidel said during the November hearing. Video shows him spraying a bottle of cleaner on the container of cucumbers, then spitting on the food before looking at the camera and saying, Theyre gonna get so f sick off this s, the assistant prosecutor said. In one screenshot, Impellizzeri admitted putting feces in taco meat at the school, authorities said. In response to someone in the chat telling him to let the group know if anyone got sick, Impellizzeri allegedly responded, I sure hope so. Thats the plan, authorities said. After testing Impellizzeri, Cumberland County health officials determined he was unlikely to pose health risks to those who came in contact with tainted items. No illnesses related to the incident have been reported by health officials. Impellizzeri posted about his motivation, saying the acts were a sexual fetish that got him aroused, the prosecution said. Impellizzeri suffers from a history of mental illness, Public Defender Emily Bell previously said in court. She sought his pre-trial release in November, saying he needed to get treatment, but Impellizzeri was ordered jailed pending trial. The Moore school, which serves students in grades 3 to 5, and the districts other two schools were deep cleaned by a private contractor, school officials said, and any questionable food was discarded. The county health department recommended new food safety measures for the district, including expanded camera coverage of kitchen areas, strict kitchen access protocols and regular checks for suspicious activity. After he was arrested last year, Impellizzeri was additionally charged with child pornography possession and distribution. Those charges involve alleged conduct in Vineland and he was not accused of manufacturing child porn, authorities said. A Cumberland County grand jury indicted Impellizzeri last month on charges including second-degree official misconduct, third-degree counts of aggravated assault, knowingly tampering with food products and attempted child endangerment, along with second-degree endangering / child porn distribution and third-degree child porn possession. He remains in Cumberland County Jail and is scheduled to return to court next week for a post-indictment arraignment hearing. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Matt Gray may be reached at mgray@njadvancemedia.com. Members of a labor union joined family, clergy, community members and public officials at a vigil Thursday afternoon to mourn the death of a construction worker who died earlier this month at a Jersey City work site and also to call attention to illegal workplace hazards. Juan Jose Coc, a 40-year-old married father of one, fell four stories to his death at a Communipaw Avenue construction site on Feb. 2. DAMASCUS, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Explosions were heard in the Syrian capital of Damascus on Friday in what appeared to be another round of foreign missile attack, witnesses and local media reported. The Beach Boys are ready for summer to come. The band will be heading out on their Endless Summer Gold tour on Feb. 21 in Honolulu, Hawaii and will wrap up on Sept. 23 in Nashville, Tenn. While on tour, the group will perform at PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, N.J. on June 1. The tour will be in support of their latest album Sail on Sailor 1972, which was released in 2022. In April, they will release their first-ever book titled The Beach Boys by The Beach Boys, which shows the groups rise from a garage band in California to a legendary name in the music industry. The Beach Boys will also be performing at Barefoot Country Music Fest in Wildwood, N.J. on June 22. If you want to see the Beach Boys this summer, here is how you can. How to get tickets to see the Beach Boys on tour 2024 Tickets for the Endless Summer Gold tour go on sale to the public on Feb. 9 through Ticketmaster at 12 p.m. Fans of this rock bands can also find tickets on secondary market websites, such as StubHub, Vivid Seats, TicketNetwork and TicketCity. First-time Vivid Seats users can save $20 on ticket orders over $200 by entering promo code NJ20 at checkout. A complete list of the Beach Boys tour dates is available here. Upcoming 2024 rock tours The Beach Boys is not the only rock band heading out on tour. Here are a few more upcoming tours you wont want to miss: Dave Matthews Band, Third Eye Blind, Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band and Rolling Stones. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Nicole Iuzzolino can be reached at niuzzolino@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips. A Trenton man has filed a lawsuit against a McDonalds restaurant in Robbinsville, claiming he was severely burned and scarred when coffee spilled on him after a worker failed to properly secure the lid. Kenny F. Perez-Secaida, of Trenton, states in court papers he was injured on July 24, 2022, at the fast-food restaurant in the 800 block of Marketplace Boulevard. A McDonalds worker carelessly and negligently failed to ensure that the tray containing the coffee was properly delivered to the plaintiff and failed to properly secure the lid on the coffee, states the suit, filed Jan. 31, in Superior Court of Mercer County. The scalding hot coffee (spilled) on plaintiffs person, body, clothes and lap, the suit states. A spokesperson for McDonalds did not respond to a request for comment on the suit. The suit says Perez-Secaida sustained painful burns and permanent scarring that has required hospitalization and ongoing medical treatment. The McDonalds corporation is accused in the lawsuit of failing to properly train and supervise its kitchen workers, and of violating New Jerseys Uniform Commercial Code, which sets standards for business transactions. The case is similar to several hot-beverage lawsuits filed recently against McDonalds in New Jersey. On Jan. 5, a 58-year-old woman filed a lawsuit in Superior Court of Morris County, claiming she was burned in 2022 by scalding hot tea served at a McDonalds in the 200 block of Route 10 East in Roxbury Township. Similar lawsuits were filed against McDonalds on Nov. 3, 2023, in Newark, and on Sept. 25, 2023, in Hudson County. The Hudson County lawsuit was filed 11 days after an 85-year-old woman sued a McDonalds in San Francisco, claiming the lid on her cup wasnt fastened properly and she was burned when the coffee spilled all over her car. In 1992, a woman in Albuquerque, New Mexico, successfully sued a McDonalds franchise when she was burned by a coffee spill. In that lawsuit, the womans attorneys successfully argued that McDonalds served its coffee up to 30 degrees hotter than other restaurants. The McDonalds lawsuits are also similar to a string of suits filed against Dunkin franchises in several New Jersey counties in the past year, court records show. 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. Bartolo Colons father was playing Dominoes in the Dominican Republic countryside when his telephone rang. The year was 2012, two years before Colon had embraced a loveable persona with the Mets. A month and a half earlier, he had tested positive for synthetic testosterone, a banned substance in MLB. BUY METS TICKETS: STUBHUB, VIVID SEATS, TICKETMASTER Ashamed by what hed done, Colon left for the Bahamas with his wife, forced to serve a 50-game suspension. While there, he dreaded having to tell his father. What hurt me the most was having to tell my father about my positive test, Colon said sitting across from Pedro Martinez on the Alofoke show, a Dominican-based YouTube show. We were raised humbly and honestly, and I was ashamed. It took me a month and a half to build up the courage to tell my father. I couldnt find the way to tell him. When Colons father finally answered the phone, Colon asked him to go somewhere private. There, he broke the news, but his father didnt understand. He thought Colon had been caught using another type of illegal drug and was relieved to learn that it was just a performance enhancer. Colons decision to use PEDs cost him a shot at the Hall of Fame he received just 1.3% of the vote on his first ballot in 2024 but in his first time opening up about PEDs, all he could recall was the call to his father. Colon is the winningest Dominican-born pitcher in MLB history. In 565 career games, he posted a 247-188 record with a 4.12 ERA and 2,532 strikeouts his Hall candidacy was questionable without the banned substance, which he says he took to stay healthy after missing the 2010 season. I used it to be able to stay healthy, Colon said. It was a bad choice I made, but I dont regret doing it because I made the decision, I have to live with it. Sample HTML block Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting us with a subscription. Manuel Gomez may be reached at mgomez@njadvancemedia.com. A barred stock broker who used more than $1 million in funds from investors on personal expenses and fraudulently received almost $100,000 in COVID-19 relief has been sentenced to nearly 4 years in federal prison, officials said. Anthony Mastroianni Jr., 49, of Manalapan, was sentenced in Trenton federal court on Thursday after pleading guilty to two counts of wire fraud, the U.S. Attorneys Office District of New Jersey said. After agreeing to be barred from working as a broker by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority in 2016, Mastroianni spent five years collecting money from investors and using it for personal expenses, authorities said. Mastroianni told the 14 victims, who were mostly seniors, that he would generate large investment profits for them through his company, Global Business Development & Consulting Corporation. The victims lost a total of about $1.2 million, federal prosecutors said. This defendant admitted defrauding investors by taking the money they entrusted to him and using it for his personal benefit, rather than investing it, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger said. He did this after already having agreed never to work as broker. Investors need to know their money is being used for their best interest, and not to line the pockets of criminals. Mastroianni is now realizing the price that must be paid for stealing from innocent victims. Mastroianni also obtained a loan from the government for $96,300 that was meant for struggling small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. He used those funds for personal expenses, authorities said. As part of his sentence, Mastroianni has been ordered to pay $1.3 million in restitution and serve three years of supervised release. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com. A popular high school teacher in Monmouth County who was named the states Teacher of the Year in September is now a finalist for the National Teacher of Year recognition. Joseph Nappi, 41, a social studies teacher at Monmouth Regional High School in Tinton Falls, is one of four finalists for the national competition. Nappi, a Jackson resident, was recognized as New Jerseys 2023-2024 Teacher of the Year in the fall and was honored at an assembly at Monmouth Regional High School on Sept. 19. The father-of-two, who has worked at the school for 18 years, is known for taking 600 students to the Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. His wife, Cristina, teaches English and Mindfulness at the same school. While he knew he was awarded Monmouth County Teacher of the Year , Monmouth Regional High School Social Studies teacher Joseph Nappi was surprised as he was also named 2023-2024 New Jersey State Teacher of the Year during a ceremony at Monmouth Regional High School in Tinton Falls. September 19, 2023Amanda Brown| For NJ Advance Media Educators like Joe are the heart and soul of our states education system, inspiring our youth and shaping the leaders of tomorrow, Gov. Phil Murphy said in a statement in September. His dedication reflects the values that New Jersey holds dear a commitment to excellence, empathy, and the pursuit of knowledge. Nappi serves as the schools Key Club Advisor, a member of the Equity Council, and is the chair of the Monmouth Helping Its Own Charitable committee, which he co-founded. He also teaches a class at Kean University called Holocaust, Genocide and Modern Humanity and worked with PBS to develop lessons for Ken Burns documentary The U.S. and the Holocaust in the summer of 2022. One finalist will be named the 2024 National Teacher of the Year this spring and will spend the following year traveling around the country to present to other educators and advocate on behalf of teachers and students. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com. The start of Daylight Saving Time when our clocks move ahead one hour is drawing closer is now just a month away. Daylight Saving time will begin at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 9, 2024. The sun will set at around 6 p.m. in New Jersey on March 9. The following day, after the time shift and the end of standard time, sunset is at 7 p.m. The sun will, however, rise nearly an hour later at about 7:16 a.m. on Sunday, March 10, after coming up at 6:18 a.m. on Saturday, March 9. Daylight Saving Time, sometimes incorrectly referred to by the plural Daylight Savings Time, begins the second Sunday in March and ends the first Sunday in November. When does Daylight Saving Time end in 2024? This year, Daylight Saving Time ends on Nov. 3, 2024 at 2 a.m. Until 2007, Daylight Saving Time began at 2 a.m. on the first Sunday in April and ended at 2 a.m. on the last Sunday in October. While most states change clocks for Daylight Saving Time, there are some holdouts. Most of Arizona and all of Hawaii does not observe Daylight Saving Time. In addition, Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa and the U.S. Virgin Islands do not participate in Daylight Saving Time. Indiana didnt start observing Daylight Saving Time until 2006. The Uniform Time Act of 1966 allows states to exempt themselves from observing Daylight Saving Time. Four bills were introduced in the state legislature in New Jersey in 2022 that would establish Daylight Saving Time as the official time year-round, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Two are pending, but any bill would need authorization of the U.S. Congress to be implemented as federal law does not allow year-round Daylight Saving Time While the U.S. Senate passed the Sunshine Protection Act in March 2022, the House of Representatives didnt act on it so it never reached the desk of President Joe Biden. In 2023, 12 U.S. senators re-introduced the bill to make Daylight Saving Time permanent. Nineteen states have either passed resolutions or passed legislation calling for permanent Daylight Saving Time, the NCSL said. A CBS News poll in 2022 showed 46% of Americans prefer year-round Daylight Saving Time, with 33% wanting year-round Standard Time and the remaining 21% happy to continue to switch back and forth. Benjamin Franklin is credited with coming up with the notion of making better use of the days light. While visiting Paris in 1784, Franklin came to believe that sunlight was being wasted during the day. In a joking letter to the editors of a Paris newspaper, Franklin proposed a tax on all Parisians whose windows were closed after sunrise. He believed that this would encourage the economy of using sunshine instead of candles, according to Michael Downing, author of Spring Forward: The Annual Madness of Daylight Saving Time. During World War I, the German Empire implemented an idea that most resembles the Daylight Saving Time that we observe today. Believing that it would conserve fuel during the war, the German Empire in 1916 became the first to switch its clocks to save daylight. In 1918, the U.S. enacted the first Daylight Saving Time law as a way to conserve fuel. It was reintroduced during World War II. The U.S. put nationwide, year-round daylight saving into effect during World War II starting on Feb. 9, 1942, thinking it would help conserve energy, according to the U.S. Department of Defense. Nicknamed War Time, it remained in effect until September 1945 when Japan surrendered. In 1973, President Nixon signed into law the Emergency Daylight Saving Time Energy Conservation Act, which made DST permanent in the U.S. This helped reduce confusion throughout the country with some regions of the U.S. participating in the practice and some regions opting out. The law was redacted less than a year later, though. A common misconception is that Daylight Saving Time was implemented as a way to improve farming practices. However, this is a myth. During the early adoption of the practice in the U.S., farmers were among the biggest opponents of Daylight Saving Time, believing that it would disrupt their farming practices. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com. The widow of a man who died while working on a dredging project along the Delaware River is suing the federal government for $4 million, alleging unsafe working conditions led to her husbands death. Cachet Burks, of Philadelphia, filed a lawsuit Jan. 30 in U.S. District Court in New Jersey on behalf of her husband, Rahsaan Stevens, who died in February 2021 at an Army Corps site in Oldmans Township in Salem County. At the time of his death at age 45, Stevens worked for a Virginia-based dredging company that was contracted to dredge the Delaware River. The $300 million project to deepen the Delaware River for larger ships began in 2010 when the Army Corps awarded a contract to the company. On Feb. 4, 2021, Stevens was working at the Army Corps Pedricktown site on an elevated platform over a sluice box a device used in dredging when he fell through an unmarked and unguarded opening on the platform, according to the complaint. He fell into the water and drowned, the complaint alleges. The lawsuit alleges the federal government, the Department of Defense and Army Corps of Engineers failed to maintain a safe work site. It also alleges the agencies were responsible for Stevenss death. A spokesperson for the Army Corps of Engineers declined to comment, directing questions to the U.S. District Attorneys office. The U.S. Attorneys Office declined to comment Wednesday. Burks attorney did not respond to a request to comment. The complaint also alleges the federal government failed to provide necessary safety devices, failed to do safety checks and failed to eliminate hazards at the site. Burks is suing the federal government for $4 million plus legal fees. Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription. Nyah Marshall may be reached at Nmarshall@njadvancemedia.com. Advocates and elected officials observed Transit Equity Day with news of a federal bill that could pump $2.3 billion into the operating budgets of NJ Transit and other New Jersey transit systems. The legislation, co-sponsored by 70 congressional members, including U.S. Reps Bonnie Coleman Watson, D- 12th Dist., Donald Payne Jr., D-10th Dist., and Rob Menendez, D-8th Dist., could break new ground by providing federal funding to support transit operations. Typically, federal transit grants and aid go toward capital projects rather than day-to-day operational costs. Introduced by U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson, D-Georgia, the Stronger Communities Through Better Transit Act would allocate $20 billion nationally for transit operations, which could boost the operating budgets of NJ Transit, PATCO and smaller rural transit systems, said legislators and advocates participating in a virtual Transit Equity Day program on Thursday. Beach badges are a nearly-unavoidable necessity when visiting the Jersey Shore. Veterans and active-duty military can avoid the fees with more than a dozen towns offering free badges. Some towns offer free, full-season badges that must be obtained ahead of time, while others offer free beach access just by flashing your ID to the badge checker. (See the list below.) All towns that offer free access require a valid military ID. Under New Jersey state law, beach towns are allowed to provide free beach access to the families of active duty military members, but not the families of veterans. A bill that would allow free access to the families of veterans has been introduced to the state Legislature annually since 2014, but has not become law. Atlantic City, Strathmere, the Wildwoods, and Corsons Inlet State Park do not require beach badges and are free for all. Asbury Park Free entry is available for active duty military and their dependents, and retired, disabled, and non-active veterans. For daily passes, a Uniformed Services ID Card or an Award Letter from the Department of Veteran Affairs must be shown at the beach office (1st Ave & the boardwalk), or the 3rd Ave ticket booth. For a season badge, a Uniformed Services ID Card or an Award Letter from the Department of Veteran Affairs must be shown at the beach office. Military ID must be presented alongside the badges when entering the beach. Avalon Veterans, and active duty military and their immediate families, receive free entry. Veterans must show appropriate ID at the Avalon Beach Tag Booth (Avalon Community Hall at 30th Street and the beach). Active duty service members do not need to visit the booth, and can show their valid ID to a beach badge checker. Barnegat Light Free badges for veterans and active duty service members can be obtained at the beach badge booth before going onto the sand. Beach Haven Veterans can get a lifetime beach badge by bringing proper ID to the beach badge office. Active duty members can get free weekly wristbands by bringing a valid ID to the beach badge office. Belmar Active duty members and their dependents, veterans, and Gold Star family members all get free beach access. Tickets can be downloaded by visiting belmarbeachbadges.com and selecting the military option. Scan the QR code and present valid ID at a badge booth to receive your wristband. Bradley Beach Free admission is given to active duty service members, their spouses and children, and veterans. Proper ID must be shown. Brick Veterans can get a free wristband by showing a valid military ID at the beach. Cape May Veterans, and active duty members and their spouses and dependents, can pick up a free beach tag at the beach tag headquarters. Valid ID is required. Deal Veterans with a valid ID receive free daily beach entry. Holgate Veterans with a valid ID receive free beach entry. Lavallette Veterans and active duty personnel receive free badges with a valid ID. Long Beach Township Veterans with a valid ID receive free beach entry. Long Branch Veterans who are year-round Long Branch residents receive free beach entry. Badges can be obtained by mailing your DD-214, proof of residency, and a copy of your drivers license to the citys Veterans Coordinator. Margate Veterans and active military members can get free season tags with properly military ID. Ocean City Veterans receive free season tags with proper ID. Active duty members, their spouses, and children under the age of 23 are eligible for free season badges. Veterans must show a valid ID. Active duty military and their spouses must show valid ID and bring any immediate children with them. Sea Bright Active duty military members and their family get free admission. Sea Isle City Active service members can get free weekly badges for themselves and their family members with a valid DD1173 (Identification and Privilege Card) ID. Veterans must present DD214 (Discharge Papers and Identification) at the Beach Tag Office for a free season beach tag. Seaside Heights Active and retired military and their dependents get free beach entry with a valid Common Access Card, Uniformed Services ID Card, DD Form 214, or Veterans Benefit ID Card. Seven Presidents (Long Branch) Veterans and active duty military receive free entry by showing a military ID. Stone Harbor A special veteran beach tag can be obtained by presenting a copy of the DD214 form. Active duty military and their families can also get free entry at the beach tag office. Did we leave off a town? Email kkausch@njadvancemedia.com. Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription. Katie Kausch may be reached at kkausch@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @KatieKausch. A Paterson Police Department officer admitted Thursday that he used excessive force in two separate arrests in 2020, officials said. Kevin Patino, 32, of Wayne, pleaded guilty in Newark federal court to two counts of violating an individuals civil rights, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office. The first incident happened on Nov. 26, 2020 when Patino responded to a call for backup from another officer who was trying to disperse a crowd of people on Main Street in Paterson, authorities said said. Patino saw the other officer talking with a man and told him to move away from the cop but the man did not do so, investigators said. He then pushed the man away from the other officer. The man and Patino started to walk away, but Patino returned to confront the man, who did not pose a danger to Patino or anyone else, and pushed him into the street, authorities said. He then grabbed the man, threw him to the ground, and struck him multiple times while he was down, investigators said. Another police officer intervened while Patino was striking the victim and handcuffed the man, officials said. The second incident happened on Dec. 14, 2020 when Patino, Officer Kendry Tineo-Restituyo, of Paterson, and three other Paterson police officers responded to a call about a suspicious person on Madison Avenue, according to a previously released indictment. The group of officers began speaking with a person who matched the description of the suspicious person. A Paterson man who had been in a nearby convenience store walked toward the group and observed the police interaction, the indictment said. He then walked away on Madison Avenue. Patino and Tineo-Restituyo who were both dressed in plain clothes with tactical vests got into an unmarked police car and drove in the same direction on Madison Avenue as the Paterson man had walked, officials said. As the officers drove by the man who had watched the interaction and walked away, Tineo-Restituyo rolled down the drivers side window of the cruiser and repeatedly asked What did you say? according to the indictment. The Paterson man said he hadnt said anything and kept walking, according to the indictment. Tineo-Restituyo whipped the vehicle around, prosecutors said, and parked so that the nose of the cruiser impeded his path, video showed. Both officers got out and grabbed him, who tried to separate himself from the officers, authorities said. That prompted Patino to hit him in the face and body while Tineo-Restituyo threw Alsaidi to the ground, prosecutors wrote. Patino kept hitting him after he was down. In 2022, the man filed a federal lawsuit against the city and police department and detailed his account of the incident. The outcome of the lawsuit was not clear Thursday night. Tineo-Restituyo was charged in 2021 with depriving a victim of his Constitutional right to be free from the use of unreasonable force by law enforcement officers and with filing a false police report, but was not indicted. The outcome of his case was also unclear Thursday night. Some of Patersons police officers had recently began wearing body cameras, but officials said Patino and Tineo-Restituyo were not wearing cameras. In court, Patino agreed that in each instance his repeated use of force against the men was unreasonable and excessive and violated the Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution, authorities said. He is now scheduled to be sentenced on July 23 and faces a maximum of one year in prison and a maximum fine of $100,000 for each count, authorities said. Patino and Tineo-Restituyo are among the multiple Paterson police officers who have been charged by federal authorities in recent years for alleged unconstitutional police practices. The New Jersey Attorney Generals Office took control of the Paterson Police Department in March 2023 following years of problems, including criminal charges against a dozen officers, millions in legal settlements and fierce criticism of police use of force in New Jerseys third-largest city Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription. Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com. This photo taken on Jan. 26, 2024 shows a cartoon character based on rhesus monkeys from Qianling Mountain, on Taiping Road in Guiyang, southwest China's Guizhou Province. (Xinhua) GUIYANG, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Dazzling bars, cozy cafes and restaurants adorned with cartoon characters, these are the scenes that offer a vibrant contrast to traditional pastimes of drinking parties and mahjong games. These mixes of old and new create a dynamic atmosphere for Guiyang, the capital city of southwest China's Guizhou Province. Guiyang is a city built in a mountainous region, featured with intricate road networks. These roads reflect the natural contours of the landscape, adding more bustling energy to the city. Along the banks of the recently rehabilitated Guancheng River lies Taiping Road, a historic thoroughfare that has been revitalized and opened to the public last month, drawing tourists and city residents to visit the rich cultural heritage of the neighborhood. Tong Wenxi, who runs the company in charge of Taiping Road, returned to Guiyang after four years of studying and living in France. He had always wanted to apply what he had learned to a project that would bring back memories for the city's residents. "You can always be amazed by the city because there could be cafes or bistros around every corner," he said. Inspired by other cities known for iconic streets and cartoon characters, Tong and his team envisioned creating a similar spot in Guiyang into a hot spot for young people and photo enthusiasts. The opportunity arose when the city authorities began to restore cultural and historic sites, and the river's water quality significantly improved after water treatment plants were built upstream. The once abandoned river was once reopened for scenic purposes. "People in Guiyang often forget that the city housed a cultural center, and it's our duty to restore it," explained Yue Jian, a long-term practitioner of restoring historic buildings and chief designer of Taiping Road. Taiping Road is situated right near the examination hall compound, where the local imperial examinations were held in the Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368-1911). A location where tens of thousands of ancient scholars in Guizhou changed their lives. "This place provides an ideal opportunity to preserve the collective memory of past generations," said Tong, who found the city has transformed rapidly and is barely recognizable in recent years. To achieve this, they reconstructed the three old bridges on the river using modern technologies while preserving the roof style of traditional buildings in Guizhou. Drawing on the region's intellectual property, they animated rhesus monkeys from nearby Qianling Mountain into popular cartoon characters, which have recently become a sensation for tourists visiting the city. By allowing business owners to preserve their unique designs and restore historic restaurants and shops, Taiping Road retained its authenticity, making youngsters' prominent touring style of "citywalk" -- which literally means roaming around the city on foot -- more enjoyable. This revitalization effort has attracted not only young people but also older residents eager to reminisce Guiyang's past, and they would bring their grandchildren and proudly show them around the historic district. "To our surprise, many of our customers are in their fifties or older, and they often share memories of the old, polluted river and are thrilled by the amazing change," said Fan Yan, who manages a clothing store on Taiping Road. Meanwhile, Fan's store was projected to generate revenue of one million yuan (around 140,770 U.S. dollars) within its first month of opening, but it exceeded expectations by doubling that amount. This Chinese New Year, an occasion for family reunion, more visitors, including returnees from other provinces, are expected to flock to the newly reopened street. "Our goal is to reconnect residents with Guiyang's rich history and heritage," said Yue, whose lifelong dedication to Guizhou has fueled his passion for revitalizing the city's historic core. As a returnee, Tong plans to bring his mother to visit his newly developed business district over the New Year holiday, when they will join many others who have returned from other places to marvel at the city's transformation. "Rather than focusing on creating massive, brand-new construction projects, we're now dedicated to restoring the history and memories of past generations," said Tong. This photo taken on Jan. 26, 2024 shows a view of Taiping Road in Guiyang, southwest China's Guizhou Province. (Xinhua) Two men who shot at a New Jersey State Police detective at a Salem County mobile home park in 2020 have been sentenced to state prison, officials announced Thursday. The duo fired shots at Detective Richard Hershey at the Harding Woods mobile home park in Pittsgrove on April 25, 2020, along with another gunman, who struck and seriously injured him with a bullet, according to the state Attorney Generals office. Najzeir Naz Hutchings, 25, of Bridgeton, was sentenced to 13 years on January 24 on convictions of aggravated assault and unlawful possession of a weapon as part of his plea agreement, while Kareen Kai Warner, 23, also of Bridgeton, was sentenced on December 12 to seven years on a guilty plea of aggravated assault. Both men testified at trial as part of their plea deals. The man who fired a shot that struck the detective, 30-year-old Tremaine Hadden, was previously sentenced in September 2023. Hadden, a Bridgeton resident, was sentenced to 37 years following a trial where he was convicted of aggravated assault, conspiracy to commit aggravated assault, riot and weapons offenses. Hershey went to the mobile home park to investigate a home invasion in which a woman was beaten and robbed earlier in the day, authorities have said. The attack stemmed from derogatory comments the victim allegedly made about the family of one of those involved in the assault, according to court documents. As Hershey was on the scene, a group of 15 people arrived in a caravan of vehicles, to continue the dispute. The detective, who was dressed in street clothes, identified himself as a law enforcement officer and told the group to leave, authorities said. When the vehicles pulled away, some members of the group fired on Hershey, who then returned fire. The detective was struck in the area of his upper leg and lower abdomen, an injury that required surgery and a lengthy hospital stay. A woman in the caravan suffered a minor leg wound, officials said. Another 11 members of the caravan have been indicted on various charges. The Attorney Generals office did not provide updates on any of their criminal cases. Hershey has since recovered from his injuries and returned to work. He was recognized as 2020 Trooper of the Year for his actions during the incident. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com. Jersey drivers could start paying a $15 congestion pricing fee to enter lower Manhattan as soon as mid-June after a federal judge set an April 3 date for New York and New Jersey attorneys to begin arguing their cases for and against the charge. A judge denied the states efforts to add a constitutional challenge to its lawsuit to fight New York Citys congestion pricing plan, in an effort to expedite the case. MTA officials originally wanted to start congestion pricing in the spring. The expedited court date means that if victorious, the MTA could implement congestion pricing as early as mid-June, congestion pricing supporters said and which Bloomberg first reported. That could only happen after public hearings are held by the MTA this month and in March and the Federal Highway Administration, a defendant in the case, issues final approval to the current congestion pricing rate proposal the MTA board approved in December. Congestion pricing supporters said the April 3 court date could allow for a decision and an early summer start to the program, if the June 2023 Federal Highway Administration decision approving the MTAs environmental study is upheld. (U.S. International Trade Court) Judge (Leo) Gordon said he expects to have a ruling on the suit by early June, and oral arguments in the case are set to begin on April 3, said Marissa Coscia, a Congestion Pricing Now spokesperson. The MTA has said tolling is scheduled to begin mid-June, so yes its possible that a ruling could come before tolling officially begins. Congestion Pricing would charge a $15 daytime fee for non-commercial passenger vehicles that use E-ZPass and $22.50 for non-E-ZPass customers to enter Manhattan south of 60th Street. Jersey drivers using the Holland or Lincoln Tunnels would receive a $5 credit for their $17 toll, those using the George Washington Bridge would receive no toll credit. U.S. Court of International Trade Judge Leo M. Gordons Feb 8 order denied New Jerseys effort to add a charge to its suit that congestion pricing is unconstitutional because it restricts commerce. But Gordon denied it without prejudice, meaning the state can refile those charges at a later date. In the decision, Gordon said adding and litigating those charges does not serve judicial economy. If New Jersey wins the case, it wont need to file the additional charges. The court essentially said that New Jersey should renew its request to amend the complaint later, which will allow the court to more quickly address our original claims and give MTA and TBTA time to finalize their tolling scheme, a Murphy administration official said on background. We are pleased that the court wants to ensure that our original claims are resolved without delay and that we will be allowed to re-file our other claims later if needed. Supporters had a different interpretation of the ruling. By rejecting that motion, Judge Gordon is showing that he clearly does not believe there is any legitimate argument of constitutionality, and that allowing the motion to proceed would only hold up the courts ability to issue a ruling, Coscia said. Congestion pricing is projected to raise $1 billion annually for the MTA capital budget to improve the subway, bus and MTA commuter railroads and cut traffic by 17%, reducing crashes and air pollution. MTA officials complained in December that a drawn out trial could delay the start of several major subway projects that congestion pricing revenue would fund. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Larry Higgs may be reached at lhiggs@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on X @CommutingLarry. An Elizabeth man was sentenced to 11 years in prison for fatally striking a pedestrian and leaving the scene in 2020, the Union County Prosecutors Office announced Friday. Hassan Kennedy, 32, was sentenced Thursday to eight years in state prison for second-degree leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death and a three-year sentence to run consecutively for second-degree vehicular homicide. The charges stem from an incident on Aug. 20, 2020 when Janaya Bailey, 22, was struck by a car at the Oakwood Apartment Complex in Elizabeth, authorities said. Elizabeth police were called to the apartment complex at approximately 12:30 a.m. on Aug. 20, 2020, for a report of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle, authorities said. Police found Bailey with injuries at the scene and transported her to an area hospital where she later died from her injuries, according to authorities. Authorities said the investigation revealed that Kennedy was backing into a parking spot at the Oakwood Apartment Complex and hit Bailey when he pulled out of the spot. According to Assistant Prosecutor Melissa Capparuva who prosecuted the case, Kennedy did not stop after hitting Bailey, and witness statements and surveillance video helped identify Kennedy as the primary suspect. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Matthew Enuco may be reached at Menuco@njadvancemedia.com. Follow Matt on X. Many people have speculated on why former Yankees pitcher Luis Severino struggled so much last season. In 19 games (18 starts), Severino, who signed a one-year, $13 million contract with the Mets in December, posted career worsts in ERA (6.65), WHIP (1.65), strikeouts per nine (8.0), hits per nine (11.4) and home runs per nine (2.3). His 4-8 record is his worst since 2016 when he went 3-8 in 22 games (11 starts). Six-day (Tuesday through Sunday) print subscribers of the Watertown Daily Times are eligible for full access to NNY360, the NNY360 mobile app, and the Watertown Daily Times e-edition, all at no additional cost. If you have an existing six-day print subscription to the Watertown Daily Times, please make sure your email address on file matches your NNY360 account email. You can sign up or manage your print subscription using the options below. Watertown, NY (13601) Today Snow this morning will give way to lingering snow showers this afternoon. Temps nearly steady in the mid to upper 30s. Winds WSW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of snow 90%. Snowfall around one inch.. Tonight Mainly cloudy with snow showers around this evening. Low 27F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 50%. PHNOM PENH, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Folk artists performed lion and dragon dance in Cambodia on Friday to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year, or the Spring Festival. The dancers from six different troupes jointly staged at the Royal Palace and the Chinese embassy in Phnom Penh. Spring Festival is the most important festival in China, which marks the end of the winter and the start of spring. The lion dance is usually invited by traditional Chinese families to perform as a symbolic ritual to usher in the Spring Festival and to ward off bad luck and evil spirits. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has sent best wishes to the Chinese people and Cambodians of Chinese descent, expressing his special thanks to them for their active contributions to the country's prosperity and development. "On the occasion of the upcoming Chinese Traditional New Year, the Year of the Dragon, on behalf of the royal government of Cambodia, I would like to congratulate and join in the fun with all Chinese people and Cambodians of Chinese descent, who have always shared weal and woe with us since ancient times," he said in a recent message. Although it is not a public holiday in the Southeast Asian nation, the Spring Festival is widely celebrated, as some schools, companies and institutions are closed on the occasion. Thorn Sreyneth, a 32-year-old Cambodian reveler of Chinese New Year, said historically, Cambodians of Chinese descent have celebrated the New Year since ancient times. "They believe that prayers to their ancestors will help them attract good fortune and happiness," she told Xinhua on Friday. "It's an occasion for a joyful family gathering, and usually, adults give gifts, especially red pockets, to children." There was a time when the Wednesday night before Mardi Gras drew huge, enthusiastic crowds to the St. Charles Avenue route. But on this Wednesday, crowds seemed relatively thin, and the reaction tepid, as the Druids and Nyx parades rolled by. Photos of empty spots along the route with few bystanders and floats without many riders were quickly posted online, and commenters piled on about the krewe's downfall since being "canceled" over a social media post in 2020. Freelance photographer Ryne Hancock said that compared to other parades this season, the St. Charles audience was slight. For a Mardi Gras parade with beautiful weather, it was very sparse, Hancock said. There was barely anyone under the Pontchartrain Expressway overpass, he said, where crowds often gather to experience the echo of booming bands. And elsewhere along the avenue, there was a lot of green space, where parade real estate is often at a premium. When it comes to local Louisiana seafood sold in grocery stores and touted on restaurant menus, redfish is not in that number. There havent been any redfish commercial fisheries in Louisiana since Paul Prudhommes blackened redfish collapsed the fisheries in the late 80s, says chef Marcus Jacobs. Most of what you see is farm-raised in Texas. And despite the Gulfs bounty, speckled trout in many places most likely comes from the Carolinas, and flounder from the East Coast. Porgy's Seafood Market Where 236 N. Carrollton Ave., (504) 429-3474; porgysseafood.com When Market: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. daily; kitchen 11 a.m.-5 p.m. daily How dine-in Check it out A market and kitchen focused on local seafood Jacobs is one of four partners in Porgys Seafood Market, which has a different vision for local seafood. Jacobs and his partner Caitlin Carney recently closed their two restaurants, Seafood Sallys and Marjies Grill. They started the new market with Christina and Dana Honn, who run Carmo in the Warehouse District. A project 18 months in the works, Porgys is in part shoring up local fishermen by buying less commonly seen Gulf species and smaller fish that dont often make it to local markets. Im excited that Porgys can be a place where people can come see and taste the difference we are talking about, Jacobs says. Its not like this amazing fish hasnt been there forever, but we have dumbed down our view of what the Gulf is about. At Porgys, we are trying to change that. They also work directly with shrimpers like Dino Pertuit from Plaquemines Parish, giving him the opportunity to set his own price, as opposed to being bound to prices at the seafood dock. Thats become especially important as the abundance of cheap, imported shrimp devastates Louisiana shrimpers. The prices they are offered are not sustainable, Jacobs says. (Fishermen) may be offered 60 cents a pound, maybe $1.50 a pound. Most folks dont have the bandwidth to distribute their own seafood. Its a vicious circle. Large seafood operations seem intent on putting the little guy out of business with imports, Jacobs adds. Porgys pays the shrimpers around $5 a pound for shrimp, and they retail for $7.50. Porgys is located on Carrollton Avenue in the spot that used to be Bevi Seafood Market. It is set up like an old-fashioned fishmonger and offers a wide variety of fish like sheepshead, almaco jack, pompano and drum, for between $13.50 and $20 a pound. All locally caught, the fish arrive whole and are broken down by staff in house. Porgys also usually has several varieties of oysters, clams, whole smaller fish and fillets. Porgy's also offers a menu of dine-in options sourced from the Gulf and local waters. Besides boiled crabs, shrimp and soon, crawfish, there is an outstanding gumbo, a seafood-topped salad, fried or blacked seafood po-boys and a traditional hot sausage sandwich with American cheese on a Dong Phuong bun. One option is to order a case-to-plate sandwich, which features six ounces of any of the daily catches, grilled, blackened or fried. One of the reasons we are doing this is accessibility to remind people how delicious all this local fish is, Jacobs says. There also is an outstanding muffuletta on a fresh, seeded bun baked at Carmo and stuffed with Gulf tuna conserva, which is fish poached in olive oil. The seafood muffuletta is dressed with olives, giardiniera salad and anchovy aioli. Raw preparations, like shrimp ceviche and Sicilian-style ceviche, round out the menu. While Jacobs mans the day-to-day of the business, assisted by Carney in the front of the house, Dana Honn is behind the scenes, less connected with the retail operations and more focused on a curatorial and educational perspective. One of the initiatives Honn is most excited about is creating a sushi grade designation for local fish. Iki jime is the traditional Japanese harvesting method for fish earmarked for raw consumption. Iki jime euthanizes the fish before it suffocates, which limits the accumulation of stress hormones and lactic acid that will start to break down the meat. Long a proponent of sustainable seafood practices, Honn is getting certified to teach iki jime. If fishers agree to harvest this way, they stand to earn about 17-20% more for their fish at the dock, he says. Building revenue for the fishermen is the end game, Honn says. We dont want to do anything that doesnt improve their revenue, he says. If we dont do that, we are all in the same sinking boat. They wont survive. MACAO, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Chief Executive of China's Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) Ho Iat Seng said on Friday that it is necessary to make proactive moves to realize substantial progress in appropriate economic diversification in the Year of the Dragon. In his message for the Chinese Lunar New Year, Ho said that the past Year of the Rabbit witnessed Macao's recovery from the pandemic and its robust development. Looking ahead to the new year, Ho said, "We will prioritize the growth of the Cooperation Zone and meet the phased goals laid out in the Master Plan of the Development of the Guangdong-Macao Intensive Cooperation Zone in Hengqin at a faster pace; more efforts will also be made to conduct external exchange so that Macao can integrate itself better into the overall national development." Zheng Xincong, director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Macao SAR, said on Friday that this year marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China and the 25th anniversary of Macao's return to the motherland. He delivered hopes that Macao would better integrate into the country's overall development, give full play to its unique advantages, and further promote exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations. Zheng also wished Macao compatriots better well-being. Liu Xianfa, commissioner of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Macao SAR, said in his New Year message that in the past year, the SAR's chief executive and government have united and led all sectors of society, achieving remarkable results in promoting the development of various undertakings. In the new year, Liu noted, the foreign affairs office will fully support Macao to govern according to law, actively help the SAR expand foreign exchanges and cooperation, firmly shoulder the responsibility of "diplomacy for the people" and "diplomacy for Macao," and earnestly implement the purpose of serving the SAR. Dragon dancers from the Traditional Kung Fu School prepare to perform at Palazzo Wanny in Scandicci, close to the famous historical city of Florence, Italy, Feb. 4, 2024. (Xinhua/Li Jing) By Xinhua writers Ren Yaoting, Peng Zhuo FLORENCE, Italy, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Ahead of the Chinese Lunar New Year of the Dragon, a volleyball match was in full swing in Scandicci, a city in northern Italy, close to the famous historical city of Florence. During breaks, drums and gongs blared and the red and gold colors of the Chinese New Year filled the stadium. The dragon and lion dances, performed by dozens of professional martial arts performers, brought down the house. The Kung Fu performance team is composed of all Italians, all of whom come from the same martial arts teaching institution, Traditional Kung Fu School, which has set Florence and Rome branches. As the head of the Florence branch, Kung Fu teacher Nicola Pastorino's passion with martial arts began in the early 1980s, when he first traveled to Foshan, south China's Guangdong Province, which is famous for practicing martial arts. "When I saw it (dragon dance) for the first time in Foshan, I fell in love with art, music, choreography, and the philosophical content behind it," said Pastorino, adding that dragon dance could well represent Chinese traditional culture. Shocked by traditional Chinese Kung Fu, Pastorino decided to bring the art of dragon and lion dance back to Italy. In 1995, the Florence branch of the Kung Fu school was established, and Pastorino has then trained groups of Italian martial arts lovers in the past 30 years. Dragon and lion dances are very popular in Italy, Pastorino said, adding that their institutes host multiple commercial performances every year. Moreover, martial arts performances attract students not only from Florence, but also from nearby regions. For Daria, a student who didn't give her full name, practicing lion dance is a "lifetime experience." She was born in Genoa, over 200 km away from Florence, but she was attracted by Kung Fu and comes to the school to practice lion dance each week. "I began to learn lion dance at the age of seven, which is a charming sport." Her boyfriend, Fabrizio Vito, also practices dragon dance at school. For him, Kung Fu has "completely changed his life." "I was reserved and shy, but practicing dragon dance helped me open my heart ... Kung Fu is an excellent traditional art with both internal and external training," said Vito. Kung Fu teacher Nicola Pastorino, also the head of the Florence branch of the Traditional Kung Fu School, prepares for a performance at the branch based in Florence, Italy, Feb. 4, 2024. (Xinhua/Li Jing) Dragon dancers from the Traditional Kung Fu School perform outside Palazzo Wanny in Scandicci, close to the famous historical city of Florence, Italy, Feb. 4, 2024. (Xinhua/Li Jing) Dragon dancers from the Traditional Kung Fu School perform during intermissions of an Italian Serie A1 women's volleyball match at Palazzo Wanny in Scandicci, close to the famous historical city of Florence, Italy, Feb. 4, 2024. (Xinhua/Li Jing) Dragon dancers from the Traditional Kung Fu School perform outside Palazzo Wanny in Scandicci, close to the famous historical city of Florence, Italy, Feb. 4, 2024. (Xinhua/Li Jing) Lion dancers from the Traditional Kung Fu School perform during intermissions of an Italian Serie A1 women's volleyball match at Palazzo Wanny in Scandicci, close to the famous historical city of Florence, Italy, Feb. 4, 2024. (Xinhua/Li Jing) A street marshals scheme which has helped to reduce anti-social behaviour in Barnstaple could continue if funding of 200,000 is approved. North Devon Council has been financing the marshals for the last six months after government funding ran out, and will be asked again to make them part of its budget for next year. Billed as an unprecedented success reducing anti-social behaviour by a third in 2023, the marshals were part of the 350,000 Safer Streets programme for Barnstaple to tackle ASB and violence against women and girls. Police said the presence of the two marshals, who had the same powers as police community support officers, since July 2022 was reassuring in the town centre and they were a great asset. They deal with early signs of ASB and also gather intelligence, enforce a Public Spaces Protection Order, provide first aid and a link to council and police teams by using the existing town centre radio network called Shopnet. Their medical assistance is said to have saved the NHS more than 10,000. Members of the council strategy and resources committee, who will decide whether to continue financing the marshals at their meeting next month, were told by their chief finance officer this week that the council was in a good financial position. A budget gap of 1 million for 2024/25 had been reduced to zero without cutting services to the public. The planned relocation of North Devon Councils customer services centre to Barnstaple high street has been described as a win, win. Councillors said creating the hub in the Green Lanes shopping centre, which sees 10,000 people each day coming through the doors, would dramatically improve face-to-face contact with the public. It will also provide a base for the police, with a daily presence from the neighbourhood team. Ninety per cent of people who took part in a public consultation supported the plan. Residents will be able to get advice about housing and benefits, as well as general information about council services. The large windows and space inside will be used to promote campaigns, messages and consultations. North Devons strategy and resources committee gave unanimous approval for 220,000 to be used from its reserves. Councillors were told that the two units for the hub had been empty since the council bought the shopping centre in 2021 and it was incurring landlord costs on the empty units. By occupying the premises, the council has the opportunity to generate income by sharing the lease with third parties. The current customer services centre at Lynton House, Commercial Road, where other council services including the parking team are based, had no passing trade and is only open three mornings a week at present, said officers. The new town centre hub will return to pre-covid opening hours of 9am to 5pm and is seen as as positive opportunity to humanise North Devon Council with a more regular presence in residents day to day lives. Police said the highly populated, high footfall area has the potential to offer fantastic access and visibility amongst our communities. Space freed up in Lynton House will be used by other council service teams or rented out. Cllr David Knight (Lib Dem, Roundswell) said the move would be from back street to front of house and was bringing the council to the people. He said using visual messages was especially good for people who had recently moved to the country and didnt understand the language very well. Cllr Ian Roome (Lib Dem, Barnstaple with Pilton) said giving the public access to services which affect their lives is vital to our council. Its a really good area because of the passing trade and with the police being here as well its a win, win situation. Councillors were told that weekend opening hours may also be an option. Green Lanes was purchased by the council for 8.2 million and said at the time to be a once in a lifetime opportunity which would complement other significant regeneration improvements being delivered within the Barnstaple town centre through the Future High Streets project. Councillors said Green Lanes had been a success and income from the site, after the repayment of the loan and asset management costs had been taken out, was being reinvested into projects across the district. DAMASCUS, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Syrian air defenses intercepted Friday two combat drones launched from the direction of Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, the Syrian Defense Ministry said in a statement. The ministry said air defenses shot the two unmanned aerial vehicles down west of the capital Damascus after they violated the Syrian airspace around 2:10 p.m. local time (1110 GMT). Meanwhile, witnesses told Xinhua that an explosion was heard in the Western Villas of Mazzeh neighborhood in the capital city. Last month, a member of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps was killed in an air raid on a residential building in the same neighborhood. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based war monitor, the Mazzeh military airport and a house in another area west of Damascus were hit by Israel-launched missiles on Friday, while the third missile was shot down by the Syrian air defenses. It noted that Israel usually targets areas that harbor Iranian-backed fighters. The attack is the latest in a string of Israeli targeting of Syrian areas. On Wednesday, nine people were killed and over 20 others wounded in a midnight Israeli missile attack on a residential area in Homs province. by Matthew Rusling WASHINGTON, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday heard arguments over whether former President Donald Trump can legally run for president in November. This occurred after the Colorado Supreme Court ruled in December that Trump would be kicked off the ballot for engaging in what has been labeled an attempt to overthrow the government on Jan. 6, 2021. Colorado argued that the former president was in breach of the 14th Amendment of the Constitution, which prevents anyone who has engaged in "insurrection" from running for public office. Colorado contended that Trump's supporters on Jan. 6, at Trump's behest, tried to prevent Congress from certifying current President Joe Biden's win, during a protest at the Capitol building. They labeled the event an "insurrection." Trump's supporters maintain that Jan. 6 was simply a riot, no different from the over 500 riots that occurred in the name of social justice in 2020. They argue that Trump did not direct any of the events that occurred that day and that the charges are an attempt to use the courts for political purposes. COURT STEERS AWAY FROM KICKING TRUMP OFF BALLOT The U.S. Supreme Court appeared to steer away from the Colorado decision, with both liberal and conservative judges expressing concern. The justices said Colorado's decision, if upheld, could have "extraordinary" ramifications. Chief Justice John Roberts said this would enable a single state to control the entire national election. He added that if Colorado is allowed to bar Trump from the election, it could later backfire on Democrats. "I would expect that a goodly number of states will say: 'Whoever the Democratic candidate is, you're off the ballot,'" Roberts said. "That's a pretty daunting consequence." Justice Elena Kagan said allowing a single state to determine the entire presidential election would be "extraordinary." "Why should a single state have the ability to make this determination, not only for their own citizens, but for the rest of the nation?" Kagan asked. Liberal justices also expressed worry over whether kicking Trump off the ballot could have negative consequences. Liberal Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson said: "My question is why the framers would have designed a system that would -- could -- result in interim disuniformity in this way?" Brookings Institution senior fellow Darrell West told Xinhua: "Several justices expressed doubt about the effort to disqualify Trump from the presidential ballot." "They say it sets a precedent of allowing an individual state to outlaw particular candidates," West said. "It appears doubtful the Supreme Court will remove Trump from the election," West said. Christopher Galdieri, a political science professor at Saint Anselm College in the northeastern state of New Hampshire, told Xinhua the Supreme Court "generally seems unhappy about having to be involved with this case." Clay Ramsay, a researcher at the Center for International and Security Studies at the University of Maryland, told Xinhua: "I would give odds of four in five that the Supreme Court will rule that Trump can run for president, and that the states can't claim their multiple jurisdictions here." IMPACT ON ELECTION Trump maintains that his detractors will stop at nothing to keep him off the ballot this year. The several court cases filed against him are purely an attempt to prevent him from running, he said. That narrative plays well with many in Trump's base, who believe the American political establishment has destroyed their jobs and is trying to destroy their way of life. Trump's base views the billionaire businessman as a maverick and a political outsider who backs their values and agrees that Washington elites do not have the best interest of the public in mind. Galdieri said the Supreme Court case may boost Trump's popularity somewhat among his most dedicated supporters. West said: "The issue of his qualifications for the job and respect for the law likely will be left to American voters to decide." 2024 Chicago Auto Show What Vehicles from 17 manufacturers and three test tracks will fill McCormick Place South. When 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Feb. 10, Feb. 12-18 10 a.m. 6 p.m. Feb.11 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Feb. 19 Where McCormick Place 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive Chicago Admission $17 for adults $12 for seniors 62 and older and children 4-12 Free for children 3 and younger accompanied by a paying adult family member. Tickets are available at tickets.drivechicago.com or at McCormick Place ticket booths. Only credit and debit cards are accepted for tickets bought onsite, food, beverages and merchandise. Attendees can get $5 off adult admission Feb. 11 by wearing apparel from their favorite pro or college teams. Discount coupons are available in the main ticket lobby. Feb. 14 is First Responders/Military Appreciation Day. Police officers, EMTs, paramedics and firefighters and U.S. military personnel and veterans will be admitted free by showing their badge or military ID. Guests who accompany them will get a voucher for $5 off adult admission that day. Showgoers who bring three cans of food to benefit A Safe Haven Foundation Feb. 14-16 will receive $5 off adult admission during the annual Chicago Auto Show Food Drive. Participating new-car dealers are offering $5 discounts on adult admission for select days. Visit www.drivechicago.com/cardealers. Parking costs $25 in Lots A and C and $16 in Lot B. After 6 p.m., parking is $11 in all lots. Only credit and debit cards are accepted. For more information, visit chicagoautoshow.com. CHESTERTON Police said a trail of blood led them to a person severely injured by a grocery delivery driver, who claimed he had been attacked by the "hostile resident" while looking for a specific home address. Chesterton police said they were called out around 7:17 p.m. Monday to 700 block of South Sixth Street to investigate a "suspicious vehicle." An officer located a vehicle occupied by the 41-year-old delivery driver, who reported that a "hostile resident" had battered him "in a violent physical attack" while he was looking for a specific address, police said. The driver said, "he had no other choice but to defend himself, swinging his knife at the resident," who then retreated into a nearby home, according to the report. Hammond man attempted to blame molestation on another child, police say When Lopez was confronted by the other adult family member, he reportedly replied, "I knew that was coming." As other officers arrived, they followed a trail of blood to the front door of a home where they found a person inside "bleeding profusely" and "pumping out blood," police said. Officers used a tourniquet to stem the bleeding until medial help arrived. The injured person was taken to an area trauma center for treatment, police said. Police obtained a detailed statement from the delivery driver and said prosecutors are reviewing possible charges. Anyone with information regarding the case is asked to contact either Patrol Detective Arwen Lamotte or Detective Sgt. Justin Frever at 219-926-1136. VALPARAISO A Valparaiso woman hospitalized following a brutal attack Monday at the hands of her 19-year-old son has died, resulting in a criminal charge being upgraded to murder against the young man, officials said Friday. Shanelle Burns, 43, died shortly before 3:30 p.m. Wednesday at Northwest Health-Porter hospital and a subsequent autopsy determined she died as a result of "asphyxiation secondary to manual strangulation," according to a modified charging document. "The manner of death was ruled to be a homicide," officials said. The accused, Conner Kobold, had been charged with attempted murder and aggravated battery. The charges are now murder and aggravated battery. Kobold is being held at the Porter County Jail without bond as a result of the murder charge, records show. Before the upgrade, he had been given a large bond of half a million dollars in cash and $250,000 surety. An initial hearing on the murder charge is scheduled for Monday before Porter Superior Court Judge Mike Fish. Burns had filed an eviction notice against her son just hours before the alleged attack at their home in the 1350 block of Diamond Boulevard on the northwest side of Valparaiso. Porter County resident taken to trauma center after clash with delivery driver The driver said, "he had no other choice but to defend himself, swinging his knife at the resident," who then retreated into a nearby home, according to the report. Valparaiso police said Kobold called them to the scene shortly before 4 p.m. Monday and when they arrived, he asked to be placed in handcuffs and in the rear of a police vehicle. There is a dead person inside of the house on the corner, he reportedly told officers. A dead person? one officer asked. Yeah, I killed somebody in that house, Kobold reportedly responded. Police said they found Burns in the living room area of her house with no pulse and not breathing. She was taken to Northwest Health-Porter hospital where staff found small ligature or binding marks on her neck. V1s (Burns) injuries were of grave danger, as they believe she has suffered substantial brain damage, police said. Hammond man attempted to blame molestation on another child, police say When Lopez was confronted by the other adult family member, he reportedly replied, "I knew that was coming." Just a few hours before the call, Burns had filed an eviction complaint against Kobold, listing the reason as, Not following agreed upon house rules. Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact Valparaiso police at 219-462-2135. Tips can also be sent by text message to TIP411 (847-411) by entering Valpo in the message field. Please use the word Diamond in the first line of your tip to identify which case you are providing information on, police said. Marktown resident Kimberly Rodriguez said it hurt to breathe when excessive flaring at the BP Whiting Refinery blackened the air over her neighborhood. She had questions she hoped to get answered at an Indiana Department of Environmental Management public hearing on BP's air permit renewal. But after East Chicago Central High School locked the public and press out of the meeting, she had even more unanswered questions. "I've lived there 65 years," she said. "I'm a very concerned resident, not only for myself but for my children, my grandchildren and the community, all the other children." Concerned residents and environmentalists want answers and a chance to be heard after the school abruptly and unexpectedly shut down the publicly advertised meeting against IDEM's wishes Thursday, locking out around 100 people and television news crews from Chicago. Rodriguez wanted to ask IDEM and BP what was being done to protect surrounding communities, like Marktown in East Chicago. "If there's an explosion, we're in trouble," she said. "When does it stop? We're not moving. They've tried to put us out. They thought they were going to come in and buy us all out. The residents that care and have lived there forever, we don't want to sell and we don't want to move. But are we safe? We need to know we're safe." Both IDEM and the East Chicago Police Department blamed the East Chicago schools for calling off the meeting because they didn't want the media present at a public meeting at a public, taxpayer-funded building. "Prior to the meeting starting, we were contacted by School City of East Chicago security staff. They advised us that the Superintendent did not want the media at the public meeting. We advised them that it was a public meeting and that they could not deny the media entry. We further advised them that if they continued with the meeting, the media would be allowed entry," East Chicago Police Department Chief Jose L. Rivera Jr. said in a statement posted to social media. "School City of East Chicago security staff was then advised to contact their law department before taking any action to cancel or go on with the meeting. A short time later, it was decided by the School City of East Chicago to cancel the meeting." Rivera said the police were present for the public hearing because they had been requested by IDEM. "They advised us that they were expecting a large crowd to attend the meeting and they wanted us to be present," Rivera said. "We advised IDEM that we would send an officer to park outside to keep the peace. We understand that a lot of people are upset about the cancelation of the meeting, but we don't have the answers to why the media was not wanted there. Those questions should be referred to the School City of East Chicago." East Chicago school officials declined to accompany an IDEM representative to face the crowd that gathered outside the high school trying to get into the public meeting Thursday. On Friday, the school city issued a statement claiming cancelation of the hearing was "due to the failure of IDEM to obtain an appropriate security commitment and the unruly behavior of some members of the public who had gathered for the meeting." School officials said the police presence was not robust enough to ensure security at the meeting and a basketball game being played at the high school at the same time. School officials said they would be willing to host an IDEM meeting in the future. The statement made no reference to the issue of media attendance at the hearing, which both IDEM and East Chicago police said was the reason school officials told them the hearing was being canceled. IDEM said it's had public meetings at the high school auditorium to accommodate large crowds as recently as last month but the school district expressed concerns about the media being present moments before the meeting was supposed to start. IDEM said it talked with Superintendent Marlon Mitchell about the need for media access but the discussions were unproductive. The state agency said the superintendent chose to deny both the media and the public access to the auditorium and cancel the already rescheduled public hearing, which generated more interest after two leaks and an evacuation of the BP Whiting Refinery over the last few weeks. "IDEM permitting staff came to East Chicago prepared to engage with the public and answer questions about BP's permit renewal application. We are disappointed that this opportunity was not provided last night," said IDEM Commissioner Brian Rockensuess. "Community involvement and transparency is a vital component of the governmental process and IDEM is committed to providing opportunities for engagement that include the public and the media." IDEM plans to reschedule the meeting at another venue. It's also extending the public comment period. People in the community are scared and worried, Rodriguez said. "We could have been evacuated because there could have been an explosion," she said. "The air quality was horrible. You couldn't breathe. My throat burned. One of the other residents went to the doctor. Her eyes were burning. Our health is at stake here. Our health and our livelihood. We thought we'd get answers here. We need some type of protection." Rodriguez can't believe E.C. Central shut the doors on scores of residents, saying she's never seen anything like it. "We need answers," she said. "What is wrong? They can't tell us anything. Why did they not open the doors?" Rodriguez is concerned that the plant is expected to be down for weeks and hoped to get some answers. "It's very alarming," she said. "Why does their plant close after their disaster? We're sitting there. Is it harmful for us? Are our lives at stake now?" BP is in the process of starting back units at the BP Whiting Refinery. The process is expected to take weeks. The restart is expected to be phased in as units go online. "BP has controls and work processes in place aimed at maintaining compliance with environmental regulations," a company spokesperson said. "We also evaluate and implement options to improve our environmental control equipment across the plant." Whiting resident Bonnie Gallegos was recently diagnosed with asthma, which she believes is the result of the air quality. "My wife recently developed breathing issues," her husband Mario Gallegos said. "The air quality has always been bad but it's making big headlines now and people are really aware of the bad air quality out there. We want BP to acknowledge what they're doing and if they have to put special filters on their refinery smokestacks they have the funds for it. They have the money. Make it safer for all the families. Make it safer for the public." He believes people were purposefully shut out of the meeting so BP wouldn't have to face questions from the public. "They have a group of people out here and they don't want to hear the problems," he said. "They don't want to hear what's going on. It's made national headlines and we want to find out what's going to be done about it. Are they going to hide it? Is it going to be swept under the rug? Are they going to say, hey, it's taken care of? Is the problem going to be hushed or are they going to do something to address the problem for good?" Bonnie Gallegos never had asthma before but is waking up with coughing fits and wheezing at 1 a.m., 2 a.m. and 3 a.m. "Sometimes during the day I'm coughing," she said. "I work from home so I'm always there in Whiting." The air quality has been getting worse lately, she said. "I smelled it outside. It's really bad. I think it just exacerbated my condition," she said. "It smells bad sometimes and you can see the clouds of smoke. You could see the clouds of smoke a few days ago. Some people think it's clouds. But it's not clouds. It's pollution and it's going everywhere." The school should have realized the issue would draw such a large crowd and the media and not cancel it at the last minute, she said. "It's very unprofessional," she said. "It's just wrong." To check to see when the meeting will be rescheduled, check idem.IN.gov/public-notices. To submit public comments on the BP Whiting Refinery air permit renewal, contact Doug Logan at IDEM, Office of Air Quality, 100 North Senate Avenue, MC 61-53 IGCN 1003, Indianapolis, Indiana 46204-2251, email dalogan@idem.IN.gov or fax (317) 232-6749, Attn: Doug Logan. For more information call (800) 451-6027 or (317) 234-7460. Patti's All-American Gymnastics, the long-running gymnastics academy on U.S. 30 in Dyer, has given employees $20,000 in scholarships to further their education. Founder Patti Komara launched the Patti's All-American Scholarship Program to reward employees in "a heartfelt gesture of support and commitment." The 55-year-old business at 1530 Joliet St. in Dyer is giving the employees the opportunity to pursue personal and professional development. Employees can put the scholarship funds toward college, certificates or other educational programs. "At Patti's All-American, we believe in investing in the potential of our employees. The scholarship program unlocks new opportunities for personal and professional growth. We want our employees to further their education and then stay with us," Komara said. Founded in 1969, Patti's All-American offers gymnastics, dance and swimming instruction to children. EAST CHICAGO Scores of residents came to East Chicago Central High School for an Indiana Department of Environmental Management hearing on the BP Whiting Refinery's air permit after repeated operational problems that resulted in strong odors, tall flames and thick black smoke. They got locked out of the building. Residents pounded on the doors, demanded to be let in and called for answers during a period of initial confusion about what was happening. Indiana Department of Environmental Management Communications Director Allen Carter told the assembled crowd the school decided at the last minute to shut down the meeting because it didn't want to let the media in. Most Chicago television stations and several newspapers sent reporters to cover the public hearing after two leaks and an evacuation of the refinery during a power outage last week that resulted in pungent odors residents smelled all across Northwest Indiana and neighboring Illinois. "We all understand the frustration people have out here," he said. "We came out here with the intention of holding a public meeting. That included with members of the media. The school concluded they were uncomfortable with that and decided they wanted to terminate the meeting. This is far from convenient. Our agency did want to come up here, drive up, put out notifications to the public and have people leave disappointed." The public responded with outcry during Carter's impromptu press scrum, calling out that "this is crazy" and "this is America," stating that it's a public building, calling for East Chicago's mayor or the governor to intervene, asking for the comment period to be extended and asking if the school board was bought by BP. "We talked to the police department and school superintendent and they're adamant about not holding the meeting," Carter said. "They had concerns about the media being here." School officials declined to come outside and face the public to explain their decision to the assembled crowd, Carter said. IDEM will look at rescheduling the public hearing, which was originally supposed to take place on Feb. 1, for a second time, Carter said. He said he could not guarantee it would happen. "We certainly want to open this up to the public and have public engagement at a meeting," he said. The public currently has until Feb. 12 to weigh in on the air permit renewal. "We want answers. We want to know what they're doing for the air quality for our kids," East Chicago 1st District Council Member Monica G. Gonzalez said. "For the school system to not open the doors so that they could speak and explain to us what's going on... we just want answers." East Chicago 5th District Council Member Robert Garcia said public officials "had no idea whatsoever" why school officials wouldn't want the media to attend a public hearing on a subject of community concern at a public, taxpayer-funded building. "To say the school system doesn't want the media here, we need the media here," he said. "BP is next to Marktown in my district and we have plenty of questions. We had residents who couldn't breathe. They had to go to hotels. There's plenty of questions. They evacuated industry but there were no answers for the community of Marktown." Gonzalez said she was concerned that BP evacuated its residents but left neighbors in the dark. "There was no communication with Marktown at all," she said. A BP spokesperson said the refinery was learning from what happened and "the safety of our employees and the surrounding communities is our top priority." Environmental activist and East Chicago resident Thomas Frank with the Community Strategy Group in East Chicago said local environmental groups partnered with the EPA to set up public meetings in the past. "This is unheard of that they would go outside of the community groups that organize for environmental justice or environmental issues," he said. "They've never done that. We've always held it at the library or Carrie Gosch Elementary School. This has never happened." Frank said environmentalists had many concerns, including that the state was too permissive about allowing air pollution, that industry interests were elevated above public health and air permits did not take into account the cumulative air pollution from the industry in the area given the steel mills and other factories nearby. He called for tougher standards that would prevent residents near the refinery from breathing in toxins. Environmentalist Carolyn Marsh said independent air monitoring also was needed to better inform the public about air quality and that BP should pay to put air filters in people's homes near the refinery. She said the gas smell was so bad during a recent incident that she went to check to make sure her stove wasn't on. But residents never got to voice those concerns the way they were supposed to be able to, Marsh said. "This is horrible. It's shocking. It's embarrassing," she said. "They closed the doors before the crowd was even here. They closed the doors to the media. There was no mob out here. This is unheard of. I can't believe it." Marsh had initially contacted IDEM about the issue, telling them a five-year permit renewal was way overdue. "We're finally having a meeting and they shut us down," she said. "They're afraid. This is like Putin's country. Is this Putin's Russia? It's like Putin strong-arming people." Gov. Eric Holcomb is ordering 50 citizen-soldiers of the Indiana National Guard to leave their careers and families for the next 10 months and join the Texas National Guard at the U.S.-Mexico border. The Republican chief executive, who last week met with Texas Gov. Greg Abbott at the border, said hes sending the Hoosier soldiers to Texas at Abbotts request. Federal negligence enforcing immigration law and the failure to secure our countrys border jeopardizes national and economic security, affecting every state, including Indiana, Holcomb said. Weve worked too hard in Indiana attacking the drug epidemic for more Hoosier lives to be put at risk by a constant supply of killer drugs spilled over an open U.S. border. The only way to resolve this is to stop the historically high flow of illegal immigrants crossing the border. According to the governors office, the 50 Indiana guardsmen already have begun mobilizing for their border mission. Theyre expected to participate in specialized training at Camp Atterbury, located south of Indianapolis, for one week, and then scheduled to arrive in Texas mid-March and remain on the border for at least the rest of the year. Whatever the mission whether its supporting a Hoosier community in the face of natural disaster, standing with our allies or against our adversaries overseas, or protecting the border the soldiers and airmen of the Indiana National Guard are uniquely trained, equipped and capable of mobilizing whenever and wherever were called, said Major General Dale Lyles, adjutant general of the Indiana National Guard. We stand ready to support the Texas National Guard in securing the southern border. The governors office did not specify what exactly the Hoosier soldiers will be doing on the border. Holcomb only said the Indiana National Guard will be supporting the Texas National Guard on its security mission. The U.S. Supreme Court last month said the Texas National Guard has overstepped its authority by unlawfully installing miles of razor-wire fencing along the border and preventing federal border agents from removing it or even accessing the border in some locations near Eagle Pass, Texas. The high court ruling affirmed lower court decisions holding that only the federal government, and not individual states, can make and enforce national immigration policy. Following the decision, Democratic President Joe Biden called on Congress to give him new tools to respond to the ongoing surge of migrants from countries in Central America and South America transiting through Mexico to seek asylum as refugees in the United States. Texas political stunts, like placing razor wire at the border, simply make it harder and more dangerous for frontline personnel to do their jobs. Ultimately, we need adequate resources and policy changes to address our broken immigration system, according to a White House statement. However, a bipartisan proposal to toughen the nations asylum laws and explicitly permit the president to shut down the border to new arrivals is stymied in the Senate, where Republicans who initially backed it now are preventing it from advancing in response to demands by Republican former President Donald Trump. Trump repeatedly has urged congressional Republicans not to give Biden a win on the border, since Trump plans to highlight the border crisis as he campaigns this year against Biden for a second, nonconsecutive term as president. As the leader of our party, there is zero chance I will support this horrible, open borders betrayal of America. Its not going to happen, and Ill fight it all the way, Trump said. Trump even took credit for GOP senators scuttling the measure they helped write: "I say, that's okay. Please blame it on me. Please," Trump said. Meanwhile, the Trump-endorsed candidate to succeed the term-limited Holcomb as Indiana governor, U.S. Sen. Mike Braun, R-Ind., this week was accused of insensitivity for posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, his opinion that the border legislation is dead in the water. At least three migrants, a woman and two children, drowned last month in the Rio Grande while attempting to cross from Mexico into Texas, near the area where the Texas National Guard has denied access to federal Border Patrol agents. The governor of Texas remains unapologetic in his defense of what he believes is the right of states to defy the U.S. Supreme Court and the federal government in general. President Biden has abandoned his constitutional duty to protect Americans by refusing to secure our southern border, Abbott said. For these reasons, I have already declared an invasion under Article I, Section 10, Clause 3 (of the U.S. Constitution) to invoke Texass constitutional authority to defend and protect itself. That authority is the supreme law of the land and supersedes any federal statutes to the contrary. Holcombs decision to send the Indiana National Guard to Texas to back Abbott signals at least tacit support for Abbott in what may become the biggest battle between advocates of states rights and the federal supremacy proclaimed by the Constitution since the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. The governors action is supported by former Attorney General Curtis Hill Jr., another Republican candidate for Indiana governor, who said Wednesday Holcomb was leading from behind by not already having Hoosier soldiers stationed on the border in Texas. It should not take pressure from within your own party to push you to do the right thing. These 50 troops will be a good start in helping Texas secure our southern border, but we should be prepared to step it up in the interest of national security," Hill said. "Instead of acting when Hoosiers needed him the most, Governor Holcomb sat on his hands. I am glad he is finally listening to Hoosiers better late than never." Indiana House Speaker Todd Huston, R-Fishers, also said Friday he fully supports Holcomb's decision to send the Indiana National Guard to Texas. "The men and women in our guard are always ready to answer the call of duty, and I'm proud that Indiana is among the states to stand up against the Biden administration's dangerous and open border policies," Huston said. Meanwhile, Senate Democratic Leader Greg Taylor, D-Indianapolis, said he's disappointed Holcomb "decided to cave to political gamesmanship" by using "Hoosier citizens and asylum seekers as his pawns." Instead of encouraging his party members in Washington to support the bipartisan effort to secure our southern border, he has decided to use state resources to put our citizens in danger for political expediency. Legitimizing this politically driven farce is a waste of time and resources, especially when we know Republicans in D.C. killed their own bill to support a solution at the southern border," Taylor said. Indiana is better than this, and I call on the governor to prioritize human life over partisan politics and reverse the embarrassing deployment of our National Guard members for the purpose of putting on an unnecessary political performance in fealty to Donald Trump. The governors office did not immediately provide an estimate of the cost to Hoosier taxpayers to send 50 National Guard soldiers to the Texas border for a 10-month period. Typically, the out-of-state costs of deploying Hoosier guardsmen mostly are covered by the federal government. Meet the 2024 Northwest Indiana legislative delegation State Sen. Dan Dernulc, R-Highland State Sen. Lonnie Randolph, D-East Chicago State Sen. Dave Vinzant, D-Hobart State Sen. Rodney Pol Jr. State Sen. Ed Charbonneau, R-Valparaiso State Sen. Rick Niemeyer, R-Lowell State Sen. Mike Bohacek, R-Michiana Shores State Rep. Carolyn Jackson, D-Hammond State Rep. Earl Harris Jr., D-East Chicago State Rep. Ragen Hatcher, D-Gary State Rep. Ed Soliday, R-Valparaiso State Rep. Pat Boy, D-Michigan City State Rep. Chuck Moseley, D-Portage State Rep. Mike Aylesworth, R-Hebron State Rep. Mike Andrade, D-Munster State Rep. Vernon Smith, D-Gary State Rep. Hal Slager, R-Schererville State Rep. Kendell Culp, R-Rensselaer State Rep. Julie Olthoff, R-Crown Point State Rep. Jim Pressel, R-Rolling Prairie Livestreaming boosts nationwide reach of products from SW China's Yunnan People's Daily Online) 12:19, February 08, 2024 Photo shows agricultural products from southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Photo/Huang Xinghong) Southwest China's Yunnan Province is seeing an increase in sales of local agricultural products through livestreaming as the Spring Festival approaches. A Yunnan organization for young entrepreneurs recently gathered several livestreaming shopping hosts to sell products characteristic of the local area. The sales volume from Jan. 18 to Feb. 5 exceeded 18 million yuan ($2.5 million). Xian Jin, from an ancient village near Jingmai Mountain in Lancang Lahu Autonomous County, Pu'er city, Yunnan, has sold Pu'er tea, a key local specialty, via online livestreaming for a year. The Cultural Landscape of Old Tea Forests of the Jingmai Mountain was designated the world's first tea culture world heritage site by UNESCO on Sept. 17, 2023. Since then, she has gained more than 5,000 followers. "Many consumers these days buy tea grown in Jingmai Mountain for the New Year," she said, noting that 90 percent of the buyers were from outside Yunnan. Wang Haolin, another livestreaming shopping host, began selling more than 100 types of local products, such as panax notoginseng, nuts, baby corn, Pu'er tea, and coffee, on Jan. 18. "I have a daily sales record of over 40,000 yuan. My customers are mostly from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Fujian Province. I feel so happy to help farmers increase their income while letting friends from other provinces taste Yunnan specialties," said Wang. Pu'er has also earned a reputation as the "coffee capital of China." The area of the city's coffee plantations has remained at over 670,000 mu (44,666 hectares) for years, with an annual production of over 50,000 tonnes of green coffee beans. A leading coffee company in the city reported a maximum of more than 1,000 orders a day, with 60 percent of the consumers being from outside the province, since it launched a New Year Shopping Festival on Jan. 17, according to Tang Jiyong, a company executive. (Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Hongyu) G42, the leading UAE-based technology group, has announced its role as the AI headliner and Leading Partner at this years World Governments Summit. G42 and its Portfolio Companies will engage in conversations alongside international leaders about the future of AI and its role on a global scale. The annual World Governments Summit convenes governments, international organisations and business figureheads to identify ways to propel international cooperation and transform governments via innovation and technological advancements. G42 and its Portfolio Companies are uniquely positioned to engage in these conversations given their cross-industry expertise and specialised AI applications that can be adopted by decision-makers worldwide. In 2024, the Summit will discuss the theme of Shaping Future Governments, where political leaders, international organisations, and private sector entities from around the globe will identify solutions for current and future social, economic, political challenges. G42 will drive the conversation, with executives from its ecosystem participating in discussions focused on responsible AI, healthcare advancements, the future of mobility, scientific discoveries, and government services. G42 executives Attending G42 executives and the discussions they are part of include: Peng Xiao, Group CEO, G42, will talk about the role of AI in shaping the global economic landscape. Talal Al Kaissi, EVP, Chief Product & Global Partnerships Officer, Core42. will be discussing how to develop responsible AI for nations. Hassan Jasem Al Nowais, MD and Group CEO, M42, will talk about how to revolutionise health through technology and how to drive healthcare innovation through strategic partnerships. Hasan Al Hosani, MD, Bayanat, will engage in conversations about the future of mobility and the role geospatial intelligence plays in creating safer cities and communities. Dr Andrew Jackson, EVP, Chief AI Officer, Core42, will delve into the latest AI advancements and applications. Thomas Pramotedham, CEO, Presight, will be speaking about optimising government efficiency with big data analytics and GenAI. Hassan Alnaqbi, CEO, Khazna will be discussing the latest sustainability developments in the construction, design and operation of data centres. Thought leaders Xiao: Every year, the World Governments Summit brings together the worlds most eminent thought leaders and officials to bolster international cooperation to power meaningful change. As a global leader in AI innovation, G42, along with our Portfolio Companies, is proud to play a prominent role in this years Summit as we collectively discuss ways to propel humanity forward through disruptive technologies. The World Governments Summit will take place in Dubai from February 12 to 14, 2024. -- TradeArabia News Service BRASILIA, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- Brazil's Supreme Federal Court (STF) on Thursday ordered former President Jair Bolsonaro to hand over his passport to judicial authorities, as they investigate his alleged role in an attempted coup. Bolsonaro, who has 24 hours to comply with the order, is one of several high-profile officials being investigated in connection with a violent assault on Brazil's capital on Jan. 8, 2023, soon after Bolsonaro lost reelection. The court order is part of Operation Tempus Veritatis (Hour of Truth) launched Thursday by the Federal Police. It targets top Bolsonaro aides, including military officers, with 33 arrest warrants and four preventive detention orders, according to local media. The operation came after Bolsonaro's former personal secretary, Lieutenant Colonel Mauro Cid, signed a cooperation agreement with the Federal Police. On Tuesday, a jury found Jennifer Crumbley guilty of four counts of involuntary manslaughter and rightfully so after her teenage son killed four students at a Michigan high school in 2021. I agree that she was grossly negligent, as prosecutors claimed, on multiple levels with her son, Ethan, who was 15 at the time of the mass shooting. Jennifer Crumbley didnt pull the trigger that day, but she is responsible for those deaths, Oakland County assistant prosecutor Marc Keast said in opening statements. This may be the first time a parent has been tried for manslaughter in connection with a mass shooting conducted by their child. But this precedent setting case should be reexamined on a broader scope beyond Crumbleys obvious guilt. And the potential guilty verdict for Crumbleys husband, James, whos scheduled to go on trial for the same charges in early March. How many other parents of deeply flawed, seriously troubled or dangerous children are guilty of continually enabling their kids by shielding them with unconditional support, or making excuses, or instead pointing blame on society? Shouldnt these parents also be held accountable to some degree for their childrens misdeeds or crimes? I understand that Crumbleys case is rare, prompting an unusual legal theory to convict her. But this case can be used as a springboard into a deep and dark cesspool of poor parenting that masquerades as devoted love. Ive asked myself if I wouldve done anything differently, and I wouldnt have, Crumbley said on the stand. Seriously? Shes clearly in denial. How many parents are in similar denial about parenting that borders on complicity. At what magical age do children have to be when their parents can no longer be blamed in part for their actions? 18? 21? When they leave their parents home for good? Crumbleys defense team argued that the blame for Ethans behavior should be on his father, and on his school, and on Ethan himself for planning and carrying out the attack. The verdict of this case will be dangerous for parents everywhere, the defense attorney told jurors. I disagree. This case should be a wake-up call to parents everywhere. Especially those parents who have potentially dangerous children that need professional help, not continual coddling. Yes, tough love is difficult to do with our children. Yet its all part of proper parenting. Were not raising children. Were raising adults. And the parents of Ethan Crumbley made critical and costly errors by ignoring glaring red flags in his troubled life. On November 30, 2021, Ethan took a gifted gun from an unlocked container in his home, hid it in his backpack and pulled it out in a bathroom before opening fire on his schoolmates. He was sentenced to life in prison without parole. His parents are partly to blame for his imprisonment and for the deaths and injuries of his former classmates. I have no sympathy for him or his parents. I wish he wouldve killed us instead, his mother said on the stand. I do too, if it came down to killing them or those innocent school students. My parents were in denial about it with my brother. They felt ashamed about it, Angella Meeks told me after her mentally ill brother, Eric Meeks, shot and killed both their parents before taking his life on Feb. 20, 2016. Eric first shot and killed his father, John Meeks, who died with his tools still in his hands in his garage. Eric then killed his mother, Olga Meeks, and wrapped his arms around her body before taking his own life. I want to be clear and honest about this horrific incident so other families can learn from our failings. All of us failed here, not just Eric, not just my parents, Angella Meeks said. I interviewed her at her familys home, sitting just a couple feet away from where her brother and mothers bodies were found intertwined. Meeks kept staring at that site during our 90-minute conversation about what happened and what could have been done to prevent it. At one point I asked her if anything positive could be extracted from that tragedy. Im just thankful that Eric didnt kill anyone else but our parents, she replied. Her response has always echoed in my head when I hear about troubled or mentally ill people who simply snap and kill others. Regardless of their age, their parents typically feel a sense of responsibility, as they should. They may not be found criminally guilty for their childs actions, although they are likely emotionally haunted for the rest of their lives. Legal experts say the goal of the prosecution in the case against Jennifer and James Crumbley was to deter other parents from making similar mistakes. In the court of public opinion, these other parents should be found guilty of involuntary enabling, I say. For journalists, bars have long functioned as second newsrooms. Over martinis, sources share secrets. Over beers, ordinary men and women plead for coverage of some local outrage. And when the news business has convulsed, eliminating afternoon editions or shuttering foreign bureaus, reporters have knocked back a scotch or two, shaken their fists at management and vowed to soldier on. That was the mood in Washington on Friday evening at the National Press Club, which invited any journalists who had recently been laid off for free tacos and drinks. Though hundreds of reporters and editors have lost their jobs across the country since the start of the year (one editor said he feared that an extinction-level event loomed over the industry), newsrooms in the nations capital appeared to suffer inordinately, with a relentless procession of bad news throughout the fall and winter. In November, Bloomberg shed more than a dozen jobs. The next month, The Washington Post eliminated about 240 positions through buyouts. In late January, The Los Angeles Times cut its D.C. bureau to the bone; a week later, The Wall Street Journal decided to jettison roughly 20 staffers in Washington. And then there was The Messenger, a lavishly-funded online news outlet with offices in Washington that flamed out after less than a year of operation. We had a conversation a few months prior that we felt pretty stable in our jobs, said Sam Murray, 25, formerly a data journalist for Bloomberg. One morning it all ended. Very unexpected. The special counsel investigating President Bidens handling of classified material after leaving the vice presidency in 2017 concluded in a report released today that no criminal charges are warranted. Robert Hur, the special counsel, found that Biden had willfully retained and disclosed some sensitive material, including notebooks with entries implicating sensitive intelligence sources and methods. Hur criticized the president for sharing some of the classified information with a ghostwriter, but added that the evidence does not establish Mr. Bidens guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. For Biden, Hurs decision not to prosecute was a long-awaited legal exoneration, but the special counsels report still turned out to be a political nightmare. In passages explaining his reasons not to pursue a trial, Hur said that Biden had presented himself as a well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory and described interviews in which Biden could not recall when he served as vice president or what year his son Beau Biden died. A lawyer for Biden criticized parts of the report as inaccurate and inappropriate. In a statement, Biden appeared to suggest that his memory lapses were hiccups during five hours of interviews held in the days after Israel was attacked. But Hurs comments resurfaced widespread worries about the presidents age. The climate scientist Michael Mann on Thursday won his defamation lawsuit against Rand Simberg, a former adjunct scholar at the Competitive Enterprise Institute, and Mark Steyn, a contributor to National Review. The trial transported observers back to 2012, the heyday of the blogosphere and an era of rancorous polemics over the existence of global warming, what the psychology researcher and climate misinformation blogger John Cook called a feral time. The six-member jury announced its unanimous verdict after a four-week trial in District of Columbia Superior Court and one full day of deliberation. They found both Mr. Simberg and Mr. Steyn guilty of defaming Dr. Mann with multiple false statements and awarded the scientist $1 in compensatory damages from each writer. The jury also found the writers had made their statements with maliciousness, spite, ill will, vengeance or deliberate intent to harm, and levied punitive damages of $1,000 against Mr. Simberg and $1 million against Mr. Steyn in order to deter others from doing the same. The candidates vying to replace George Santos in a special House election squared off on Thursday in an exceedingly bitter debate, tangling over the roots of New York Citys migrant crisis, abortion rights and, at one point, the definition of assault weapon. The face-off on Long Island was the only chance for voters to see the candidates debate, and each sought to smear the other at close range. Mazi Pilip, the Republican nominee, claimed that her opponent, Tom Suozzi, opened the border. He called her wholly unprepared for Congress. The Feb. 13 election is considered a tossup. A victory by Mr. Suozzi would narrow Republicans paper-thin House majority at a time when they are already struggling to govern. If he loses, it could signal trouble for Democrats ahead of Novembers elections. Here are five takeaways from the debate, hosted by News 12. The migrant crisis is dominating the race. New York is almost 2,000 miles from the U.S.-Mexico border, but it is clear the race has become a referendum on the influx of migrants trying to get across it. The only question is who will take the blame in the eyes of frustrated voters. The New York police and the Manhattan district attorney said on Thursday that they were investigating a fracas in Times Square that broke out after members of an anti-crime organization accosted a man their leader had incorrectly identified as a migrant. Curtis Sliwa, the founder of the Guardian Angels and a former mayoral candidate whose red-bereted followers have walked the city for decades, was being interviewed live on Fox News when members of his group standing behind him moved out of view. Our guys have just taken down one of the migrant guys, Mr. Sliwa told the host, Sean Hannity. The camera panned to show several Guardian Angels surrounding a man, then pulling him to the ground. Mr. Sliwa then accused the man of shoplifting wrongly, according to the police. We gave him a little pain compliance, Mr. Sliwa said. His mother back in Venezuela felt the vibrations. On Wednesday night, two sturdy bouncers framed an unmarked doorway between a pizzeria and a vape shop on West 57th Street. Those granted entry descended a narrow staircase to the door of Silencio New York, where a new offshoot of the swank Parisian nightclub was hosting its inaugural party. The Silencio on rue Montmartre has attracted a cross-section of Pariss fashion, art and music scenes since it opened in 2011, with the involvement of the filmmaker David Lynch. (Its name references the eerie theater in Mr. Lynchs 2001 movie Mulholland Drive.) Although its new location near Columbus Circle is not slated to officially open until later this month, it opened its doors early for a celebration for Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys, the power couples exhibition highlighting Black art stars that opens at the Brooklyn Museum on Saturday. The first city hotel from a company better known for its beach resort and spas, Six Senses Rome opened last spring in a historic palazzo on Piazza San Marcello, a short walk from the Pantheon. The Spanish architect Patricia Urquiola oversaw the design, keeping the graceful lines of the original structure while transforming it into a light-drenched contemporary retreat. She housed the reception and lobby bar in a glass-topped atrium, filling the space with giant potted plants. In one section of the lobby, glass flooring reveals a glimpse of an ancient subterranean baptismal pool that belongs to the neighboring church. For the 96 guest rooms, Urquiola finished the walls with cocciopesto plaster, a type of lime wash made with crushed bricks, a construction material as old as the city itself, while the furnishings, in muted pastels and rounded shapes, are unmistakably modern. Then theres the spa, in many ways the centerpiece of the hotel. Awash in travertine marble, it includes five treatment rooms, a yoga studio, a series of indoor plunge pools, a hammam and a space dedicated to biohacking treatments, like pulsed electromagnetic field therapy and LED light masks, for when all the age-old wellness remedies dont quite cut it. Rooms from about $1,200 a night. No one misses the early days and dark theaters of the Covid pandemic, but the emergency workaround of streaming content was good for a few things anyway. People who formerly could not afford admission suddenly could, since much of it was free, and artists from anywhere could now be seen everywhere, with just a Wi-Fi connection. Thats how I first encountered Russian Troll Farm, a play by Sarah Gancher intended for the stage but that had its debut, in 2020, as an online co-production of three far-flung institutions: TheaterWorks Hartford, TheaterSquared in Fayetteville, Ark., and the Brooklyn-based Civilians. At the time, I found its subject and form beautifully realized and ideally matched the subject being online interference in the 2016 presidential election by a Russian internet agency. This is digitally native theater, I wrote, not just a play plopped into a Zoom box. Now the box has been ripped open, and a fully staged live work coaxed out of it. But the production of Russian Troll Farm that opened on Thursday at the Vineyard Theater is an entirely different, and in some ways disappointing, experience. Though still informative and trenchant, and given a swifter staging by the director Darko Tresnjak, it has lost the thrill of the originals accommodation to the extreme constraints of its time. Not that it is any less relevant in ours; fake news will surely be as prominent in the 2024 election cycle (is Taylor Swift a pro-Biden psy-op?) as it was in 2016. Thats when, as Gancher recounts using many real texts, posts and tweets of the time, trolls at the Internet Research Agency a real place in St. Petersburg, Russia devised sticky memes and other content meant to undermine confidence in the electoral process, sow general discord, legitimize Trumpism and vaporize Hillary Clinton. Out of every detail listed in the 383-page special counsel report, it was the suggestion that President Biden had trouble remembering when his elder son, Beau, died that seemed to anger the president the most. During a news conference just hours after the report was released, Mr. Biden appeared to struggle to keep his composure when recalling a line, on page 212 of the report, that suggested that he did not remember, even within several years, when his son died. I know theres some attention paid to some language in the report about my recollection of events, Mr. Biden said, his chin quivering either from anger or sadness. Theres even a reference that I dont remember when my son died. How in the hell dare he raise that? He said he had worn his sons rosary since the day he died. Beau Biden, who died of brain cancer in 2015, appears 16 times in the pages of the report prepared by Robert K. Hur, the special counsel appointed to investigate Mr. Bidens handling of classified documents. As the Chinese Lunar New Year is around the corner, enchanting lion dance shows are staged in many Chinese restaurants in Belgium. The performers come from a martial arts school that was founded locally in 1988. Produced by Xinhua Global Service Growing up at the end of the Cold War in the United States, I remember a constant low-level hum of fear about a potential war with Russia and quite possibly a nuclear war. Russians were the villains in our movies. Mushroom clouds haunted our dreams. Now, for many of us and maybe you, a new version of those anxieties is emerging. Security analysts and officials have told me they believe the risk of a nuclear weapon being used somewhere while still small has increased to a level not seen in decades. North Korea now claims to have developed nuclear warheads that it can mount on its various missiles. Russias menacing war in Ukraine continues. At the same time, China is expanding its nuclear arsenal, leading experts to suggest we may be heading into another era of brinkmanship, like the one that marked the early rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union, as giant powers with cataclysmic weapons poke and prod for weakness. As Chris Buckley, our chief China correspondent, wrote in a recent article, Chinas military strategists are now looking to nuclear weapons not only as a defensive shield, but as a potential sword to intimidate and subjugate adversaries. President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia has worked for decades to win allies in the West, using his spy agencies to interfere in elections and deploying diplomats to build links with Kremlin-friendly politicians. On Thursday, the world witnessed a new, verbose chapter in those efforts: Mr. Putins two-hour interview, taped in a gilded hall at the Kremlin, with one of Americas most prominent and most divisive conservative commentators. Speaking to Tucker Carlson, the former Fox News host, Mr. Putin called on the United States to make an agreement to cede Ukrainian territory to Russia in order to end the war. He sought to appeal directly to American conservatives just as Republican lawmakers are holding up aid to Ukraine on Capitol Hill, echoing the talking points of politicians like former President Donald J. Trump who say that the United States has more pressing priorities than a war thousands of miles away. Dont you have anything better to do? Mr. Putin said in response to Mr. Carlsons question about the possibility of American soldiers fighting in Ukraine. You have issues on the border, issues with migration, issues with the national debt. A U.S. Special Operations retaliatory drone strike in the Iraqi capital on Wednesday killed a senior leader of a militia that U.S. officials blame for recent attacks on American personnel, the Pentagon said, following up on President Bidens promise that the response to a slew of attacks by Shiite militias would continue. The Pentagon said the man was a leader of Kataib Hezbollah, the militia that officials have said was responsible for the drone attack in Jordan last month that killed three American service members and injured more than 40. A U.S. official said that the strike was a dynamic hit on the militia commander, whom American intelligence officials had been tracking for some time. A second official said the United States reserved the right to strike other Shiite militia leaders and commanders. Videos from the scene showed the wreckage of a vehicle in a neighborhood of eastern Baghdad, and a nearby fire. A senior Kataib Hezbollah official and Irans Revolutionary Guards Corps both said that two commanders had been killed in the strike. Witnesses said identification cards found nearby identified them as Arkan al-Elayawi and Abu Baqir al-Saedi. In response, crowds gathered in the streets of Baghdad, chanting America is the devil. Maj. Gen. Tahsin al-Khafaji, a spokesman for Iraqs security services, called the strike an aggression, and said it violated Iraqi sovereignty and risked dangerous repercussions in the region. Wednesdays strike came after three quieter days in the Mideast, following American salvos on Friday and Saturday that began what Mr. Biden and his aides have said will be a sustained campaign of retaliation. On Monday, the Pentagon said that American warplanes had destroyed or severely damaged most of the Iranian and militia targets they had struck in Syria and Iraq on Friday. Maj. Gen. Patrick S. Ryder, the Pentagon spokesman, said that more than 80 of some 85 targets in Syria and Iraq had been destroyed or rendered inoperable. The targets, he said, included command hubs; intelligence centers; depots for rockets, missiles and attack drones; as well as logistics and ammunition bunkers. Kataib Hezbollah, based in Iraq, is considered a proxy of Iran, and the United States considers the group a terrorist organization. U.S. officials blame Iran and the militias aligned with it for what had become a near-daily barrage of rocket and drone attacks against U.S. forces in Iraq and Syria since the war between Hamas and Israel began on Oct. 7. The Biden administration has sought to calibrate retaliatory airstrikes to deter such groups while avoiding a wider war. But when a drone attack hit a remote base in Jordan on Jan. 28, killing three American service members, administration officials said that a red line had been crossed, and Mr. Biden promised a sustained campaign of retaliation. After that strike, Kataib Hezbollah said it would halt attacks on American forces, at the behest of the governments of Iraq and Iran, reflecting Irans reluctance to directly confront the United States. But other groups involved in such attacks have not made similar commitments. The back-and-forth attacks in Syria, Iraq and Jordan not to mention the tit-for-tat strikes that the United States and its allies have exchanged with the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen have edged the region closer to a broader conflict, even as the administration insists it does not want war with Iran. Instead, U.S. officials say they are focused on whittling away the militias formidable arsenals and deterring additional attacks against U.S. troops as well as merchant ships in the Red Sea. But by targeting Kataib Hezbollah commanders, the administration is sending a message to Iran and the militias that it backs that every American life taken will be met with a strong response, U.S. officials said. In January the Pentagon said the U.S. had killed a leader of another Iraqi militia, Haraqat al Nujaba, who was involved in planning and carrying out attacks against American personnel in Iraq and Syria. National security experts and officials say privately that to truly degrade the capability of the Iran-backed militias, the United States would have to carry out a yearslong campaign similar to the six-year effort to defeat the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. Even then, the officials say, the militias, with Irans backing, could probably survive longer than the Islamic State, which was pressured by the United States and Iran, and even Russia. The United States would also have to target many more senior leaders and commanders. Falih Hassan contributed reporting from Baghdad. Originally known as the Domingoes, the Spinners were formed in 1954 in Ferndale, Mich., a northern suburb of Detroit. The group joined the Motown roster a decade later but had only one big hit for the label, Its a Shame, which was co-written and produced by Stevie Wonder and peaked at No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1970. They hit their artistic and commercial stride after they signed with Atlantic Records in 1972 and began working with the producer Thom Bell. The ensuing string of hits began with the Top 10 singles Ill Be Around and Could It Be Im Falling in Love and included Then Came You, a collaboration with Dionne Warwick that reached No. 1 on the Hot 100 in 1974. Their last hit was a medley of Cupid and Ive Loved You for a Long Time in 1980. The Spinners were nominated for six Grammy Awards, though they never won. They were inducted into the National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame in 2015. Mr. Smith and Mr. Wynne handled most of the group's lead vocals, but Mr. Fambrough took or shared the spotlight on a few songs, notably Ghetto Child, a No. 4 R&B hit in 1973. There are still court cases that could upend this years presidential election, but the one involving Donald Trumps eligibility to be on the ballot doesnt seem likely to do so. In a two-hour oral argument at the Supreme Court yesterday, nearly all justices appeared skeptical of Colorados effort to keep Trump off the ballot. Colorado officials have argued that his role in the Jan. 6 attack on Congress makes him an insurrectionist and that the 14th Amendment bars insurrectionists from the presidency. Maine has also moved to bar Trump, and other states would likely follow if the Supreme Court were to allow it. The legal issues are complex, and we walk through them below. But the justices are surely considering a larger political question, too. As Adam Liptak, who covers the Supreme Court for The Times, told us yesterday: Donald Trump is accused of doing grave wrongs in trying to overturn the election. But who should decide the consequences of that? Should it be nine people in Washington? Should it be individual states? Should it be Congress? Or should it be the electorate of the United States, which can, for itself, assess whether Trumps conduct is so blameworthy that he should not have the opportunity to serve another term? As Neal Katyal, a former Obama administration official who argues before the Supreme Court, said yesterday, This argument did not go well for the Trump challengers. Officially, the case involves Colorados Republican primary, which is scheduled for March 5, less than four weeks away. Many legal experts expect the court to rule quickly (as this story explains) and to issue a broad decision that applies to all states. Its official: Peak TV has peaked. Last year, 516 scripted television series aired or streamed in the United States, a 14 percent decline from 2022, the FX cable network said on Friday. That was only the second drop in at least 15 years, and the biggest, according to FXs research. The total is the most definitive evidence of a slowdown that executives have been predicting for at least a year. Televisions rise in both the number of shows and the quality of programming brought it to the forefront of American culture over the last decade. But orders for shows by the major studios started to drop precipitously in the middle of 2022, around the time that Wall Street soured on entertainment companies spend-at-any-cost strategy to make new series. Last years strikes by screenwriters and actors the first time both unions walked out at the same time since 1960, effectively shutting down scripted production for months also slowed down the release of new shows. The strikes wiped out the entire fall lineup for scripted network TV, and the fallout is likely to be felt throughout 2024. Mr. Wenner told employees in a separate note that Mr. Shachtman would be replaced in the interim by Sean Woods, the magazines deputy editor, and Lisa Tozzi, its digital director. The magazine will begin a search for a new top editor in the coming weeks, he said. Mr. Shachtman will continue as a contributing writer for the magazine. I want to thank him for all the work, passion and dedication hes put into our publication over the last few years, Mr. Wenner wrote. The former top editor of The Daily Beast, Mr. Shachtman imported the news websites hard-nosed, investigative sensibility to Rolling Stone. During his tenure, the magazine published investigations into prominent musicians and actors, including Jonathan Majors and Marilyn Manson. The publication also won a National Magazine Award for digital design and was nominated for its first Emmy Award in interactive media under his leadership. Over the past several years, Rolling Stone has focused on expanding beyond its roots as a traditional magazine, emphasizing ventures that include events, licensing, online commerce, films, TV and podcasts. Rolling Stone was plunged into crisis last year when Jann Wenner, one of the magazines founders, made comments in an interview with The Times that were widely considered racist and sexist. Jann Wenner, who is Gus Wenners father, left the publication in 2019, but he was still influential in the world of music as a board member of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Foundation, which he also helped found. After his comments were published, he was ousted from the foundation and condemned by the Black Rock Coalition, a conflagration that Mr. Shachtman had pushed Rolling Stone to cover. The next step was to draw a proposal for the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, the department that oversees Nigerias considerable fossil-fuel reserves. P.&I.D. would construct the $500 million facility. Nigeria would pipe in wet gas at no cost to the company. Then P.&I.D. would process it and pipe out the lean gas at no charge to the country. But in return, the company would retain the valuable byproducts of the gas-leaning process, like propane and butane, which it could sell at a profit. If Nigeria backed out at any point before the full 20-year term of the contract, it could be held liable for damages. Taken as a whole, it looked like an enormous commitment for Nigeria, one that might be met with skepticism when it finally met the eyes of the ministrys lawyers. Around this time, a lawyer named Grace Taiga landed a new job at the ministry, as legal director. This was fortunate, because Quinn and Cahill had known Taiga for years, ever since she was at the Ministry of Defense and they were businessmen who occasionally won contracts from it. For about a year leading up to the submission of P.&I.D.s proposal, Quinn and Cahill sent Taiga and one of her daughters just a bit more than $25,000 in incremental payments. Quinn also took Taigas colleague, a Ministry employee named Taofiq Tijani, to dinner at Chopsticks, a Chinese restaurant in Abuja. The cost of that dinner was recorded in accounting books as $2,800. (A Chinese dinner does not cost $2,800 in Abuja.) Then, shortly before the contract was signed, Cahill sent another $5,000 from a bank in Cyprus to Taigas daughters account, which was coded as a commission payment. So Long, My Son Stream it on Mubi. The scenes that open this ravishing drama by Wang Xiaoshuai feel like pieces of a cryptic puzzle, gesturing evocatively at a whole that remains out of view. A pair of boys play beside a lake, a death is seen from a distance, and years later, in some other place, a grieving couple struggle to raise a wayward son. Slowly, these fragments swirl together into a decades-spanning epic about two couples in China, brought together in the 1980s by their factory jobs and then torn apart by a series of losses, including those inflicted by the countrys one-child policy. With its nonlinear stitching, the movie demands patience, and rewards it handsomely. Each scene trembles with emotion, conjured at the precise intersection of performance, cinematography and carefully rendered political context. In one sequence, the central couple, Liyun (Yong Mei) and Yaojun (Wang Jingchun), receive news of layoffs in a companywide meeting. As the crowd of workers erupts in rage, the camera settles on Liyuns face, streaked by a single tear: A personal tragedy is etched in the canvas of a historical one. The two will suffer many more crises, but in relaying them non-chronologically, the film allows for plenty of grace and resilience, capturing life not as an arc but as a collection of moments sometimes good, sometimes bad, always fleeting. Antigone Stream it on Tubi. It is an unusually serious message for a giant screen in Times Square: Ban asbestos now. Those words are appearing four times an hour in an ad for the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization, which says that most Americans believe asbestos has been banned for more than 30 years. In fact, a federal appeals court, in 1991, overturned the Environmental Protection Agencys attempt to prohibit most uses of asbestos. Asbestos, long linked to lung cancer and mesothelioma, has been used less widely in recent years, in part because of liability concerns. Palestinians queue for relief food supplies in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, Feb. 9, 2024. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) said on Friday that Israel has rejected half of the aid requests submitted by the agency for the northern Gaza Strip. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua) GAZA, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) said on Friday that Israel has rejected half of the aid requests submitted by the agency for the northern Gaza Strip. UNRWA Chief Philippe Lazzarini said in a statement that "since the beginning of the year, half of the aid requests we submitted to the north have been rejected." The United Nations has identified deep areas of famine and hunger in the northern Gaza Strip, where people are believed to be on the brink of starvation, according to Lazzarini. He mentioned that nearly 300,000 people in the north rely on the agency's aid to survive, noting that access to life-saving humanitarian aid is being blocked. Flour and its derivatives, rice, and canned goods have been depleted amid the continued siege and prevention of food, water, and nutrition from entering by Israel, according to the Gaza-based government media office. The office said in a statement that the residents of those areas were forced by the occupation to grind animal feed and grains instead of the missing wheat and are now facing real famine amid the ongoing aggression. The Palestinian death toll from ongoing Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip has risen to 27,947, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said on Friday. A Palestinian returns after receiving relief food supplies in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, Feb. 9, 2024. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) said on Friday that Israel has rejected half of the aid requests submitted by the agency for the northern Gaza Strip. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua) Palestinians receive relief food supplies in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, Feb. 9, 2024. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) said on Friday that Israel has rejected half of the aid requests submitted by the agency for the northern Gaza Strip. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua) Palestinians receive relief food supplies in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, Feb. 9, 2024. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) said on Friday that Israel has rejected half of the aid requests submitted by the agency for the northern Gaza Strip. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua) Palestinians receive relief food supplies in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, Feb. 9, 2024. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) said on Friday that Israel has rejected half of the aid requests submitted by the agency for the northern Gaza Strip. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua) In 2017, Rollie Williams was a struggling comedian when he came across a copy of An Inconvenient Truth, Al Gores book on climate change. While a New York Times review describes the book as lucid, harrowing and bluntly effective, Mr. Williams was struck by the potential for comedy. It had been 10 years since the former vice presidents passionate appeal, and the planet had just kept heating up. I thought Al Gore on an I-told-you-so tour would be a funny premise for a comedy show, he said. The resulting production was a hit. Mr. Williams, who lives and works in Brooklyn, now makes comedic videos about the environment. He is part of a growing movement that takes on the climate crisis with humor. From Hollywood movies like Adam McKays Dont Look Up to independent sketches on YouTube and TikTok, comedians no strangers to tackling difficult subjects are increasingly looking for punchlines in one of the greatest existential threats ever to the planet. The New York state corrections department would gain the power to remove abusive guards from its prisons under a state senate bill filed on Monday. Currently, the commissioner of the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision does not have the ultimate authority to fire guards accused of serious misconduct and often must defer to third-party arbitrators who determine disciplinary outcomes. But the bill, filed by State Senator Julia Salazar, a Brooklyn Democrat, would give the commissioner the final say in such cases. In a memo accompanying her bill, Ms. Salazar, the chairwoman of the Senate committee on Crime Victims, Crime and Correction, said she drafted the legislation in response to an investigation by The Marshall Project, published last year in collaboration with The New York Times. The investigation showed that New Yorks prison department often tried but failed to fire correction officers accused of abuse or trying to conceal it. From the articles, Ms. Salazar wrote in the memo, a stark picture emerged of a staff disciplinary system that is essentially completely broken and ineffective. Drawing on a previously secret state database obtained by The Marshall Project, the examination found that New Yorks prison department tried to fire guards accused of abusing prisoners or trying to conceal abuse in more than 290 cases over 12 years but succeeded in terminating only 10 percent of those officers. If you were planning a trip to New York City for Presidents Day weekend and logged onto Airbnb Wednesday morning, the first two listings to turn up might have vexed you. One was for a hotel room on Park Avenue South, and the second was for a townhouse apartment in Jersey City, advertised for its proximity to the PATH train to Manhattan, useful because Jersey City is not actually in New York. When Airbnb arrived 15 years ago, it famously positioned itself as the immersive travelers alternative to hotels, which, by implication, were meant for the congenitally dull and basic. At its best, the platform rooted the culturally inquisitive in neighborhoods where they might not have gravitated, largely because there were no hotels and where they were now driven to spend their money at the local boulangerie or the Malaysian restaurant or the vintage denim place. At its worst, as critics argued for years, it deepened New Yorks housing crisis because so many rental apartments often stacked up as investment properties in a single building were now given over to the tourism economy. This pattern changed in September, when Local Law 18, passed the previous year by the City Council, went into effect, which more or less prohibited rentals of fewer than 30 days. Technically, this way of doing business was already illegal by virtue of New York States Multiple Dwellings Law, enacted in 1929 to create better safeguards against the dangers of tenement life. But Airbnb thrived amid loopholes in the law. In May 2022, there were more than 10,500 New York City listings on the site for apartments or whole houses. This week there were fewer than 1,000. In December, as demand for Airbnb spaces in New York fell by 46 percent, the growth in Jersey City and Newark exceeded 53 percent. Richard Gambino, the chairman of the first academic Italian American studies program in the United States and a leading critic of those who reflexively viewed Italian Americans as Mafiosi and mocked them with ethnic stereotypes in popular culture, died on Jan. 12 at his home in Southampton, N.Y. He was 84. His death, in hospice care, was caused by lymphoma, his daughter Erica-Lynn Huberty said. Dr. Gambino was an assistant professor of educational philosophy at Queens College in 1972 when he published a lengthy essay about Italian Americans in The New York Times Magazine, one month after the release of Francis Ford Coppolas movie The Godfather. He wrote that the nativistic American mentality, born of ignorance and nurtured by malice, insisted on stereotypes of Italian Americans as either spaghetti-twirling, opera-bellowing buffoons in undershirts (as in the TV commercial with its famous line, Thatsa spicy meatball), or swarthy, sinister hoods in garish suits, shirts and ties. He added, The incredible exploitation of The Godfather testifies to the power of the Mafia myth today. Robert Badinter, a French lawyer and former justice minister who led the fight to abolish the death penalty in France and became one of the countrys most respected intellectual figures, died early Friday. He was 95. His death was confirmed by Aude Napoli, his spokeswoman. She did not say where he died. He is a touchstone for many generations, President Emmanuel Macron told reporters on a visit to Bordeaux on Friday, hailing Mr. Badinter as a sage and a conscience for France. The nation owes him a lot, Mr. Macron said, adding that the government would organize a national tribute. Mr. Badinter spent decades as an esteemed defense lawyer. But he was best known for enacting the 1981 law that abolished capital punishment in France, one of his very first acts as justice minister in the Socialist government of President Francois Mitterrand. It is a gleaming vision of a world just beyond the present: a world in which meat is abundant and affordable with almost no cost to the environment. Animal slaughter is forgotten. Global warming is restrained. At the heart of the vision is a high-tech factory housing steel tanks as tall as apartment buildings and conveyor belts rolling out fully formed steaks, millions of pounds a day enough, astonishingly, to feed an entire nation. Meat without killing is the central promise of whats come to be known as cultivated meat. This isnt a new plant-based alternative. It is, at least in theory, a few animal cells, nurtured with the right nutrients and hormones, finished with sophisticated processing techniques, and voila: juicy burgers and seared tuna and marinated lamb chops without the side of existential worry. Its a vision of hedonism but altruism, too. A way to save water, free up vast tracts of land, drastically cut planet-warming emissions, protect vulnerable species. Its an escape hatch for humankinds excesses. All we have to do is tie on our bibs. Between 2016 and 2022, investors poured almost $3 billion into cultivated meat and seafood companies. Powerful venture capital and sovereign wealth funds SoftBank, Temasek, the Qatar Investment Authority wanted in. So did major meatpackers like Tyson, Cargill and JBS, and celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio, Bill Gates and Richard Branson. Two of the leading companies Eat Just and Upside Foods, both start-ups reportedly achieved billion-dollar valuations. And today, a few products that include cultivated cells have been approved for sale in Singapore, the United States and Israel. ezra klein From New York Times Opinion, this is The Ezra Klein Show. If wed only had a partner for peace Thats been the refrain in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict for as long as Ive followed it. You hear it often from Israelis. You also sometimes hear it from Palestinians. And theres truth to this. But theres also a bit of a lie to it, because it suggests you only need one partner. What you need is two partners, able to deliver at the same time. Theres this moment in Palestinian political history that keeps coming up for me in my reading and my thinking. So its 2009. Abbas is, as he is now, the president of the Palestinian Authority. And a man named Salam Fayyad is the prime minister. And Fayyad has an interesting history. He has an economics Ph.D. from the United States. Hes worked at the World Bank and the I.M.F. Hes brought in by Arafat in 2002, the height of the second intifada, to serve as finance minister and to build the basic capabilities of a Palestinian state. He became prime minister in 2007 after the breakup of the unity government between Hamas and Fatah. And he is, at his core, a kind of technocrat, a person who focuses on the nuts and bolts of governance. So in 2009, frustrated by seeing peace deal after peace deal fall apart, he begins moving forward with an idea that reverses the way people had been thinking about this: Maybe the way to a state is not through some grand deal, bargain, settlement, declaration. Maybe it is through the internal development of a state. Maybe it is through the simple building of the state itself. Show you can collect taxes. Show you can maintain internal security. Show you can work with your partners. And then, maybe the world will have no choice but to recognize that state. Maybe Israelis will see they can work with you. And if they dont, or if they dont want to work with you, maybe the fact that you have built this will lead the international community to demand they work with you. And so Fayyad goes about doing this. And to a very large extent, a remarkable extent, he succeeds, and that success is noticed. archived recording (barack obama) While I know you have had differences with the Palestinian Authority, I genuinely believe that you do have a true partner in President Abbas and Prime Minister Fayyad. I believe that. [APPLAUSE] And they have a track record to prove it. Over the last few years, they have built institutions and maintained security on the West Bank in ways that few could have imagined just a few years ago. So many Palestinians, including young people, have rejected violence as a means of achieving their aspirations. There is an opportunity there. Theres a window, which brings me to my third point. Peace is possible. It is possible. [APPLAUSE] ezra klein A month after Obama gave that speech this is now April of 2013 Fayyad resigns as prime minister. And today, the Palestinian Authority he worked so hard to build into a governing force is in tatters. It is unpopular. It is widely considered to be corrupt. It is widely considered among Palestinians to have failed failed to deliver the better lives they need, failed to deliver the state they had been promised. So what happened? Why didnt this work? Fayyad is now at Princeton, and his name is being floated as one of the people who might be called back in some kind of revitalized Palestinian government. But I wanted to know what happened when he tried this the first time. What went right, and what went wrong, what he learned working with the other factions and forces in Palestinian politics and working with Israel and how he still ended up here. As always, my email ezrakleinshow@nytimes.com. Salam Fayyad, welcome to the show. salam fayyad Pleasure to be with you. ezra klein Its an honor to have you here. So in 2009, you are prime minister. You release a plan to establish a Palestinian state within two years. salam fayyad Yes. ezra klein Tell me about the theory of that plan. salam fayyad The rationale behind launching that plan, which actually ended up being launched in August of 2009, was to make explicit, in the most constructive of ways possible, that we Palestinians were tired of a political process that failed to deliver. So it was important for us to somehow find a way to say, were tired of this occupation. This cant go on forever. In many ways, the content of the plan actually represented a continuation of things that we were doing before. When I first joined the P.A. as finance minister in mid-2002, the height of the second intifada, I had this idea about the need to build the Palestinian Authority from the ground up. And finance is an important component of that and was considered to be a significant enough step in the direction of rehabilitating the Palestinian Authority. Its kind of really ironic, when it was supposed to have ceased to exist anyway. The other background to this, actually, is important. Going back to June 2002, when George W. Bush was president, he made a very important policy statement on the question of Palestine-Israel, which he said and he was the first sitting U.S. president to say that yes, Palestinian state, but then Palestinians have to meet these requirements. archived recording (george w. bush) The Palestinian state will never be created by terror. It will be built through reform. True reform will require entirely new political and economic institutions, based on democracy, market economics and action against terrorism. This moment is both an opportunity and a test for all parties in the Middle East, an opportunity to lay the foundations for future peace, a test to show who is serious about peace and who is not. salam fayyad Which, on the face of things to me, like, did not sound fair. Because here we are, singled out for having somehow to prove that we are worthy enough to exercise something which is a natural right for all peoples around the world i.e. right to self-determination. My attitude toward this was, fair or unfair, lets take that test and pass it. We did better than that. Actually, we wrote the exam in the form of that plan. We said, this is what we intend to do over the span of the next two years in order for us to cross the threshold of readiness for statehood, beginning with a vision, overarching vision, for what that Palestine was going to look like, for it to really actually be a state that is founded on foundations, progressive values of openness, tolerance, inclusivity, pluralism, democracy, and all of that. And the question we try to answer was, what should be done in various sectors of governance over a period of two years in order for us to be in a position to fulfill that overarching national vision? ezra klein When I read your story, when I read your policy memoir, what I see is the difficulty of trying to form what we think of as a state a taxation authority, sewers, et cetera out of the clay of a group that was not built to do that, was built not to govern anything, but to assert the rights of a people, to fight for that people. And so the people who were leaders in it they had the experience of war. They had the experience of being refugees. They had experience of planning military operations. But they didnt have the experience of managing sewer construction. So tell me a bit about when you began working with the Palestinian Authority, or what becomes a Palestinian Authority, who were the people in it, and what kind of experience did they bring to that? salam fayyad Remember, it was the P.L.O., the Palestine Liberation Organization, that entered into the Oslo Accords with the state of Israel back in 1993. The P.L.O., acting on behalf of all Palestinians, actually signed those Accords. And those Accords gave rise to this self-governing entity called the Palestinian Authority. It was supposed to govern and take care of the needs of the Palestinian people and the territories Israel occupied in 1967 West Bank and Gaza for an interim period that was to end in May 1999. This was supposed to be a transitional period of five years. And if your thinking is, in five years, were going to have a state, youre preoccupied with that. So it should not come as a surprise that the Palestinian leadership, in the 90s, was preoccupied with political process, lost in the detail. The building is part the building component so thats what got lost in the shuffle. It doesnt mean, in fairness to our own history, that nothing was done. There was a lot of investment on the part of the international community in helping the Palestinian Authority put together the institutions of a functional state. And in terms of the makeup, yes, ministries, agencies, and all were, by and large, staffed by people who came into Palestine with President Arafat after a long period in Tunisia. Some had some experience what they were doing, but others didnt. So some progress was made. Im not really saying nothing happened. But it was not the it was not the main game in town. The focus was on peace envoy coming, peace envoy coming back. Whats going to happen? Next donor meeting. Then, of course, Camp David and the run-up to it, and all of that happened in between. ezra klein And so I just want to pull something out that youre saying, because this also tracks my understanding of it, but I think this is important that the theory of the P.L.O., the P.A., of Arafat in this period I would call it an external theory that they are going to get statehood by negotiating with the Americans, the Israelis, the Egyptians, the Europeans, et cetera. Theres a lot of focus on that external game. And at the same time, they have to manage internally. They have constituents. They have people who need the roads to be fixed. They have to figure out how the ministries work. But the theory is that theyre going to get to the promised land through a deal, and those deals then begin to fall apart. People who want more background on this can listen to our episode with Aaron David Miller. And so I want to fast forward here a little bit to 2002. This is the Second Intifada. salam fayyad Yes. ezra klein There is a lot of violence. There are Israeli sieges of parts of the Palestinian Authority. Hamas is now a player. There are suicide bombings coming from multiple groups into Israel. And youre brought in by Arafat as finance minister. Tell me why. Why does he choose you to be finance minister? salam fayyad Oh, OK. People were beginning to express unhappiness about the way governance issues were handled. Even from my days, with the I.M.F. in the 90s Im talking about 97, 98 stories about, not all money that the P.A. made came to the coffers of minister of finance, commercial operations, investment operations taking place outside the purview of minister of finance so people were beginning to say something about it. And we did have a good legislative council. There was a lot of discussion in the legislature about these issues. In spring of 2002, before I joined the P.A., there was an important session of the PLC, as it is called the Palestinian Legislative Council, which, basically, they came up with a list of demands and expectations of the leadership. Things needed to change. So it was against that backdrop, and also international calls for reform, that I was called in to serve as finance minister. And the president called me and asked me if I would do this. And I said, yes, and I did it. ezra klein And so from the way you tell this, what you have here is now internal and external pressure in the same direction. This is after the second intifada launches salam fayyad Correct. ezra klein after Camp David fails. This is a cratering of Arafats international standing. salam fayyad Yes. ezra klein I mean, the Americans are furious. The Europeans are upset. People are feeling hopeless about this now. Theres much more violence. Israeli politics is moving to the right. Theres a feeling that the P.A. is corrupt. And internally, youre saying, theres also this pressure from the legislative council, kind of also saying, theres no deal coming, and the state isnt working. The government isnt working. So you come in. This is about as bad as things have been to that point. And you begin a project of working on internal bureaucratic processes. It seems and Ive read your account of this it seems very incongruous, right? To imagine somebody at the same time theres military curfews and sieges and suicide bombings sitting around, trying to figure out the accounting structure and how people bring a request for money from one office to another. But tell me a bit about that work and why you decided to focus on that first, why you decided to focus on process. salam fayyad It was my job, my job. I was brought in to really actually put Palestinian finances in order. And details matter in this. And you know, to me, as I said, the task was always about building the state and projecting its reality on the ground. In finances, it had to mean preparing budget. It had to mean having your accounts right, and it had to meet transparency. It had to mean all of those things. Its a critical component of being a transparent government, to be transparent in your own finances. And my focus at the time was on getting it fixed, going forward. Key challenge also at the time you asked me about what it felt like I remember what it was like. It was basically not being able to go to my office. Ramallah itself was under curfew for a good period of time. When you are in government, and especially acting under highly challenging conditions of the kind that we were having to contend with, you cant basically say, were closed for business until were fixed. You got to fix it on the go, so to speak. So it was those little things. Whenever you can do something, however little, just do it. You cant just wait for the perfect alignment of stars. That was the doctrine, if you will. And then, building on whatever confidence that you can get and generate or doing things to do more things incrementally, in a way that was highly opportunistic. And I say this in the best possible sense of the word. Do what you can as soon as you can do it. And that basically is how we went about doing business. ezra klein How were things working? I mean, Ive heard it describe function as a patronage model, that people go to Arafat, make an ask for money, and the point of the finance ministry was to try to back up the things that Arafat said he would like, what was going on before you came in, and then what is the way in which you changed it? salam fayyad You described it right patronage. And it was the way Palestinian leadership managed even before coming to Palestine. Money, basically, was distributed from the center, and decisions on disbursement had to be made by the president himself, big or small. So when I came in, it was just like that, pretty much. But who hires, for example? President had to approve everything. Sometimes it actually took the form of a number of people. Like, we need 100 or 200 people in security. Somebody would write a memo to the president, saying and there would be a list of names, and the president say, approved. Something like that. So what do you do? So you have a president, larger than life, iconic leader. And I did have a very good working relationship with him, really, and he trusted me. He had really good confidence in what I was trying to do. So how do you change the system from patronage to a systems-based approach to running affairs of government? So basically, what you thought was sensible worked. And you really needed to lobby with some colleagues here and there, but you got it done. For example, if the president had signed off on a piece of paper for somebody to get health care, I would send it to the Minister of Health for review. And I would charge it to the budget of the Minister of Health as opposed to the budget of the Presidents Office. And if its social welfare, I would send it to the Minister of Social Affairs. Just allow the flow to continue. But it started to really compartmentalize it and organize it institutionally. Next budget that we did, we actually had all of those anticipated expenditures integrated in the budgets of line ministers. So thats when you really begin to see and I cannot tell you the extent to which this was absolutely fascinating and highly motivating and a source of joy, to see what once was so centralized and had to really have the presidents approval to happen, all of a sudden, becoming the purview of ministers, line ministers, and agencies. And you could see the structures appear, beginning to emerge. It happened over time, not overnight. But it did happen. And as I said, within the span of a couple of years, not only did we have a budget that was published, we had good accountability to the legislature, testimonies, hearings, discussions and approvals and the rest of it. Were beginning to look like a state in the making. ezra klein And it sounds like one thing that was crucial to this was the marriage of your processes to Arafats authority. salam fayyad Yes. ezra klein Right? That he had the charismatic authority of it. He backed you up. You had the processes. And it was that marriage of the nationalism and the technocratic method that was responsible for at least the success in this period. salam fayyad Yeah, and it worked. Not everything I did was really easy to swallow, but to his credit, he really actually accepted it. He knew it was about doing the right thing. Some issues were easier to implement than others, but it was done, to his credit. Most, if not all, of the key components of a well-functioning public finance system were put in place while President Arafat was alive and president of Palestinian Authority. So thats an example of how you could do things. [MUSIC PLAYING] ezra klein So what comes next in 06 are elections, and you form another party. Its called Third Way. The party does not do very well in the polls, but tell me about that decision to form a third party. salam fayyad Running for office was not something I really had thought about. By spring of 2005, I started to think about wanting to leave government and do something else with my life. But I didnt want to rock the boat doing it. So there was talk about elections. And according to our law, you cant be a cabinet officer and run for office. So for convenience, political convenience, I remember, I was asked by the prime minister at the time late Abu Alaa, Ahmed Qurei and the president himself, President Abbas, asked, why are you leaving? I said, I want to run for office. And they both gave me this look do what? Run for office? I said, whats wrong with that? Its like, fine. But then, in the way things happened, it started out as a way out a quiet way out, if you will became a reality. And people thought ezra klein For you, it began more as an excuse. salam fayyad Yeah, I kind of used it, to be honest with you. That was my intention. ezra klein Like when youre quitting a job, but you need an excuse for why youre quitting the job. salam fayyad It raised a lot of questions. And I felt it convenient to say Im running for office. But then it started this way, kind of in a light way. And our system was a mixed system, in the sense that you could run all by yourself, like for individual seats, or you can run on a slate. So because I really had not given the matter that much thought, originally, I was thinking of running for an office in my own district. But then, talking to some people and well, why dont you run on a slate? I was an independent, and I still am actual political independent. And so we ran a slate of independents at the time, out of nothing. I mean, just like scratch. It was not a party as you described it. It was just an electoral slate. You need to put together a slate to run for office, and thats what we did. ezra klein And you all come in fairly low. I think it was 2 percent in the polls, if I remember the salam fayyad Yes. ezra klein And the surprising thing that happens in this election, and that sets the stage for a lot of what comes next, is Hamas does very well. salam fayyad Oh, yes, absolutely. ezra klein Why? salam fayyad Yeah. Look at their election slogans, things that they chose to run on. I think the one that really was most effective is the poster that they run everywhere. It said, America says no to Hamas. Israel says no to Hamas. What do you say? ezra klein Ive heard the slogan before. salam fayyad And that ezra klein But that tells you a lot about internal Palestinian politics. salam fayyad Yeah, of course it does. Of course it does. But here we are. This is January 2006 now. And by then, those who still believe that the solution culminating the Palestinian statehood were beginning to become a minority. What do you do? You play to that. I mean, its a failed bet that the P.L.O. made on Oslo, expecting it to deliver Palestinian statehood. And by that time, in the minds of many, and coming on the heels of the Second Intifada and the violence of it all, and the destruction, and both in Gaza and West Bank, basically, that was a winning hand. Also they ran on, were clean. We dont have issues of corruption. We have white hands. Were clean and all. So these are really all important messages, I think, electorally speaking. But technically speaking, mechanics of winning the elections helped them enormously. Because they got about 44 percent of the vote, and Fatah, I think, came in second, at about 43 percent. That would not have given them an outright majority in the way they did 74 out of 132. How did that happen? It happened because the election system at the time was like 50 percent proportional you have to run on a slate and 50 percent individual seats. People compete in districts. What Fatah did at the time because of their own internal politics, they did not have the discipline of running one candidate per position. So they ran against each other, essentially. They took votes from each other, and the Hamas candidates won. 44 percent is a substantial showing theres no question about that but would not have been enough to give them outright majority. What gave them outright majority was the election system. ezra klein But one thing you can imagine here I mean, it is, to some degree, parliamentary. You could imagine coalitional governance. You could have imagined some kind of unity governance. salam fayyad Yes. ezra klein I mean, this is still a people under siege, still trying to fight for statehood. And what you get instead is a violent split. salam fayyad Yes. ezra klein Why? What leads to the crackup of Palestinian governance? salam fayyad You know, its kind of really when you reflect on those days and what youre trying to do to act as if were kind of a mature state and democracy and all. These are really fond memories. Its like, so Hamas wins, and what Hamas does, actually, is begin the process by consulting with other factions when they, in fact, could have formed the government by themselves. I mean, they won an outright majority. So they did that. They went through a process of talking to factions, including talking to me. They ended up, without really getting into details, forming, essentially, a Hamas-only government. And that first year was difficult. There were some clashes and security issues and deterioration and overall lack of stability strikes and what have you, financial boycott on banking institutions, and the rest of it. Money withheld by government of Israel, so government unable to really meet its salaries, et cetera. So there was a process of reconciliation, led at the time by Saudi Arabia. And a deal was reached in Mecca, and my name was in that agreement, when I was finance minister. And when I left, I left not to come back, by the way. But then, the national government was formed, and when my name was mentioned in the agreement. So you have that, and of course, I joined as finance minister. I was there. I mean, the early going of this was good. It felt good to really be on a cabinet that was inclusive, headed at the time by Hamas. Prime minister was Hamas, and nine or 10 cabinet officers were from Hamas. We knew each other. I mean, its not like some of us were imported from outer space. And it lasted about three months or so didnt last so long. And then, we had the violent takeover of power by Hamas in Gaza in June of 2007. archived recording 1 A takeover of Gaza by Hamas may be near. The latest sign Hamas takes over this important security installation of the rival Fatah movement, capturing the preventive security headquarters, militants and civilians looting the compound ezra klein What leads to the dissolution? Why doesnt that survive? salam fayyad You know, I always had this premonition about Gaza, separated from the rest of polity. And this goes back to way before Hamas came into power, I have to tell you. I made a point of attending most cabinet meetings from Gaza. Just go there, just make it really stick. Still, up until that time, it wasnt really on anybodys mind that Gaza was going to really separate in the way it happened. And here, it really depends. The story depends on whom youre talking to. And some say its a siege. Financial siege continue to put pressure on the authority, and that kind of led to the implosion and all of that. I personally dont think that is the case. Because about five or six weeks into my tenure in that very short-lived government, I was able to work with significant components of the international community to find work around the siege on our banking system. And I know what Im really talking about. I was party to it, and we did it. So in terms of our capacity to deal with the banking system, that was restored. When I showed up in my second stint as minister of finance, I mean, the P.A. was, again, dealing in cash. There were really invoices, boxes of things. Banking system could not be used, for fear that theyd be kind of banned, internationally and all of it. So you needed to rebuild the system from scratch. And you cant do it without having a banking relationship. We were able to restore that. So I dont buy ezra klein So what do you buy? salam fayyad What I buy is faction rivalries, for sure. I mean, in politics, you have competition. You need to have competition. For any vibrant democracy, thats fine. But then, when the rivalry becomes too much about factional salvation, as opposed to whats collectively nationally sensible, we all lose. And our struggle for freedom, for nationhood, for self-determination in history cannot really be adequately understood without seeing, at least a good part of it, through the prism of trying to answer the question who represents the Palestinian people? If you really factor this into the analysis, you see a lot that you would not otherwise see. I think that was absolutely devastating. Theres no question about that. It is my opinion that unless we really find a way to not eliminate that pluralism but to manage it effectively, that we really can move forward. Because until we do that, the focus will always be on the privilege of representation, not on what comes with it by way of responsibility. ezra klein This feels to me like a place your thinking has changed over time. To fast-forward a little bit here, theres the breakup of this unity government. Theres violent clashes. Abbas makes you prime minister. And as prime minister, you, among other things, are managing security. And one thing youre managing there is basically the expulsion of Hamas in the West Bank. And I think theres a vision that people external to Palestinian politics have, which is, you can have some kind of future Palestinian politics with no Hamas, right? That Israel says it will destroy Hamas. My sense is that youve come to the view that that is impossible and counterproductive. So tell me a little bit about that evolution in your thinking. salam fayyad Yeah. As a matter of fact, I was for pluralism and for the arrangement that took place in 2007. And my joining it actually is prima facie evidence of my strong preference for it, even though I knew and I do not know if I really can go into too much detail here that this was a government that was going to be rejected internationally and not I mean, Israel, of course, we knew. But not only by the United States but also by Europe. So I knew that. I mean, I knew, even if there was this international opposition to it Im not talking about Israel ezra klein Which is always a slightly odd thing, given that we pushed very hard for these elections. salam fayyad Yeah. ezra klein The United States pushed for the elections, also pushed to allow Hamas to run in the elections. That was part of George W. Bushs view, against the advice of other people. Then, Hamas wins. It seems strange to me that the international community both wanted the elections, allowed Hamas to win and then treated it then as delegitimizing for like, either do it or dont do it. archived recording (george w. bush) The Hamas party has made it clear that they do not support the right of Israel to exist. And I have made it clear, so long as thats their policy, that we will not support a Palestinian government made up of Hamas. This new democracy thats emerging in the Palestinian territories must understand that you cant have a political party that also has got a armed wing to it, that democracies yield peace. salam fayyad I would not really want to get into U.S. position on this and where the president was or wasnt. But I can tell you that on the principle that you have just articulated right now, there can be no disagreement. And that was my view at the time that the idea that we have elections but we exclude a faction that, by that time, everybody knew had significant weight politically in the system I mean, you either have open, fair, inclusive elections, or just governed by fiat. I mean, it doesnt really make much sense. Its a show. Im not really a fan of pseudo elections I mean, where you have people go, and they have ink, and they show their finger, and we have voted, but rigged elections. Now, 2007 thats an important moment. I was in this government. And all of a sudden, overnight, essentially, there was this violent takeover of power. I mean, it was there, immediately. I mean, the president actually was, at the time, of a state of mind that maybe we really cannot save ourselves. I mean, that was predominantly the mood in mid-June 2007. I was in a different place. But I thought it was going to be temporary. Yes, I was called in to serve as prime minister at the time. And that was the consensus amongst the P.L.O. factions. Its not something I looked for, or particularly wanted to do or anything like that. We just sat in a room, and I remember the president at the time, on the day after, asked people to answer three questions. Like, what kind of government do you want us to have small or normal size whether its factional or non-factional, and who should be the prime minister. And I remember, overwhelmingly, people around in the way they answered, they put my name on it. So I called a national emergency. However, I took it literally to mean an emergency government, which under our constitution, which I took seriously and I still do take very seriously, that this was going to be short-lived that during these short weeks, a way will be found to put the system back together. I was wrong. But actually, on the 29th day of my tenure as prime minister, I submitted my resignation. This is not reported on a lot, but this is a fact. And this came as a surprise to everybody around me, including the presidents. Like, why are you doing this? And I said, well, thats the law. ezra klein What was your relationship in these years like with Abbas? salam fayyad It was cordial and all right. I mean, when I left the government, I left as finance minister. He tried to talk me out of it. But I said, Im running, and I ran. And then, my own sense is that Ive gone not to return, I mean, when I left as finance minister. But going back to that period, he was the one who asked me to do this. He knew Im kind of an independent person and things were not going to really be easy. But at the time, nobody thought anything was going to be easy. So what do we do? What we do is, if you want me to continue to serve, I resign. Then, you task me with forming another government. And then, in accordance with the law, I have to take it to the council for vote confidence. Either they voted in or out, but thats the process. And we did that. And he called the council to convene to vote on the government. And Hamas did not show up. They would have voted it out that day if they showed up. They didnt. There was a session that was supposed to take place. My office was not very far from where the legislature was. And I had the secretary general of the cabinet go there and tell me when there was quorum and was supposed to take place at 12:00, midday. And I stood on the stairs of the legislative council said, we came here to actually offer our program to the legislature. They didnt show up. And that actually made the government a caretaker government for a long period of time. Now, all of this is known. What is not known and you talk about evolution of my thinking. This is a fact and corroborate-able. In April of 2008, less than a year after I became prime minister, I wrote an internal memo that was entitled Gaza. Just one word Gaza. And the thesis of that was, the path we are on is not going to restore unity. What is in the way of this is actually continuing to say that unless everybody becomes the same, they cannot join the P.L.O.. This is in writing my own name and signature. This is also documented. Members of Hamas used to visit with me in my office. I knew them. Wed talk about things. And we were very clear in terms of our own expectations. Political dissent is more than welcome, for sure. On security, we stand on a platform of nonviolence. Lets just be clear on this. ezra klein Who is the we here? salam fayyad We is the P.A., of which I was prime minister. So it was very clear to everybody, you know, what we stood on. And by the way, on security, my main preoccupation, coming into the job, was to deal with the lawlessness that was so dominant and prevalent everywhere in the cities of West Bank. And by the way, for the record, that was not Hamas. ezra klein But hold on. I want to hold here for a minute and integrate Israel into this conversation. salam fayyad Yes, OK. ezra klein We are now at a point where there is a split. Hamas is running Gaza. The P.A. is running the West Bank. salam fayyad Yes. ezra klein The P.A. has a platform of nonviolence, right? That is a major division between the two sides. But youre also managing security within the West Bank. salam fayyad Correct. ezra klein You can imagine different paths Israel could take at this moment, in terms of, heres a partner we can work with, heres one we cant. You can imagine a lot of different strategic considerations for them. What was Israels relationship to you and to the P.A. in this period? Was your sense that they were trying to raise up the P.A. as the alternative, such that Hamas would crumble? That they were trying to keep the two divided? How did Israel deal with you and your colleagues? salam fayyad So in 2007, when I became prime minister, yeah, I got all of those accolades, and this guys serious. ezra klein You were the prime minister of the West liked. salam fayyad Yeah. I mean ezra klein Western-educated, worked in Western institutions. salam fayyad and had a track record of having really delivered on financial reform and all of that sort of thing. Massive coverage. archived recording 2 From cabinet meetings to laying the cornerstone for a $19 million project, undertaking the role of prime minister without a state, Salam Fayyad is laying the foundations of a Palestinian nation, one road, one school, and one project at a time. In August salam fayyad And by the way, even when I was finance minister I dont know many finance ministers who get this much recognition and coverage internationally from all over. Papers in the United States, Europe, everywhere a lot of media interest in what we were trying to do. And after all, were not even a state, which, of course, tells you the extent to which the issue of peace and the Middle East how important it is internationally. Its not about me, personally, but this is clearly the kind of promise that people saw in this. So yes, there was that, including in Israel. I mean, a lot of politicians would say all kinds of really good things about this. Prime minister is a really serious man, a man we can do business with, et cetera, et cetera, making it sound like its a question of just who, not the process or anything like that. Translate that into action, into deeds, and look at what happened. A lot can be said about this. I have my own convictions. I come to the conversation with a little bit of bias that I was very explicit on. This doubt that you have this doubt, I always had this doubt. I always had this worry. I had premonition about things. I had premonition about Gaza long before I joined the P.A., when I used to just go there as I am a fresh rep, crossing into something thats really different somehow. And if I may take a step back and I was not, obviously, involved in Oslo process itself. I was an international civil servant at the International Monetary Fund in Washington, D.C. at the time. And it was not really before I became the resident representative of the I.M.F. to the Palestinian Authority in late 95, early 96, that I started to read up on the issue in details and studied it very carefully, the agreement. And from early on, I had my doubts, to be very honest, that the framework of that kind was going to really lead us to the promised land. ezra klein What were you skeptical about? salam fayyad The agreement itself, when you really look at it clinically and technically its not based on recognition of any of our national rights as a people. Thats fundamentally important. And history actually bears that out, if you really look at what happened subsequently, and where something is essentially kind of thrown at us. Like, the most recent rendition or version of the so-called two-state solution was contained, arguably, in the Trump peace plan of January 2020. And essentially, it was like, here is two-state solution. Take it or leave it, and not doing so would be engaging in wasting yet another opportunity for peace. Whereas, the P.L.O., acting on behalf of all Palestinians, recognized the right of the state of Israel to exist in peace and security. Thats profound, by the way. ezra klein So youre saying that at the base of this, there is an asymmetry, that right at the beginning, Israel was recognized, and the Palestinian state was contingent. salam fayyad It was more of a promise. Therefore, a promise of state, essentially. They internalized it as such. It was really more of a promise than anything else. If you look into the agreements themselves, youre not going to find a single reference, however implicitly, that this is really about Palestinian statehood. It was about self-government for Palestinians, self-rule. Thats what it was about. So there was no reference to Palestinian sovereignty. I remember, after I became resident representative at the I.M.F., we would go to international meetings, donor meetings, and all. And there are several meetings that were interrupted, almost like, stopped, canceled, because of a reference in one of the international documents or delegations implying Palestinian sovereignty. This is how delicate the issue was at the time. When late Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin took the agreements in 1995 to the Knesset, he gave an important speech. And there is, in there, everything that confirms what I have just told you that this is really about self-rule. And the process was to culminate, in agreement between the sides, on so-called permanent status issues, not statehood. [MUSIC PLAYING] ezra klein So this gets then to your theory of state building, which is that by 2009, there have been many failed peace process attempts. Right? Theres been international meetings. There have been bilateral negotiations, like Abbas Olmert. There have been all these efforts. They have come to naught. And so you sort of reverse this idea that instead of waiting for a state recognized and agreed to by Israel and the international community for Palestinians, Palestinians should build what looks like a state, and that will lead to the international recognition and the deal. And so as I understand a lot of your approach here, it actually flips the ordering that had become dominant unto that time. salam fayyad Absolutely. Thats fair and accurate way of describing my thought processes and how I approach the issue from beginning. To what I told you earlier about my own doubt I long harbored about the capacity of the political process, peace process, to deliver Palestinian statehood, to be quite candid about it, I always was doubtful about that, being able to do it. And thats why I invested a lot in the process of making it happen. Creating it you just create it, make it happen, build it. Build its institutions, project its reality. Let it grow on people, as opposed to it happening top-down. And then, work politically, somehow, with the international community to impart sovereignty. That was really the equation. So its not surprising, actually, shortly, after we launched that plan of 2009, that we jumped on it, even though the world was not consulted on it. I mean, a lot of people think that this was concocted up, some kind of really grand conspiracy or grand game plan agreed with the Americans, with the Europeans, with international financial institutions none of it. I held a press conference, said here is our plan. But immediately, the world jumped on it. It had the promise. It had this vision. It has all of these things. But importantly, what many forgot about was the massive major turnaround in security conditions in the West Bank, insofar as the sense of personal security that people had. Main cities in West Bank were kind of no-mans land, a state of total lawlessness, total chaos. Businesses ransacked, and government offices ransacked, people having no sense of personal security walking the streets night time or anything like that. Within a matter of short months, it was a complete turnaround in that whole operation. It was a very good example of how we can do things. Then, conditions improved drastically. And you look at the numbers yourself, and you will see that over a four-year period, in terms of casualties of violence and all of that ezra klein So what was Israels response to this? Were they delighted? Were they trying to work with you? Were they not? salam fayyad Two areas I can point to, which were telling of Israel not having been the right state of mind, in terms of political system center of gravity, as I call it, of the political system. And by that time, of course, Israel has shifted to the right, relative to where it used to be in the mid-90s. A little bit of very brief rundown of history. Oslo had segregated the West Bank, in particular into areas A, B, and C. Area A is like urban centers, like cities like Ramallah, Nablus, et cetera, Jenin, Tulkarm, et cetera, major urban areas. In area A, thats where the Palestinian Authority has sole purview over security and administration. Then you have area B, where security is kind of a shared responsibility. And then, area C, P.A. has no jurisdiction. In other words, you cant, if youre a security officer of P.A., move into area C without prior coordination with Israel. You cant do that. So thats the lay of the land. And it was excluded, by and large, from development. Because to build anything, a room, anything, an extension to your own home, you need to get a permit from Israel. And because Israel, by design, wanted Area C out of the equation, would give only very few permits. And a lot is known and has been written about the extent to which they demolished existing structures. And they still do to this day. So thats one real task. I mean, if that state of Palestine is going to emerge and is going to really be fulfilled, minimally speaking, how can the starting point be, the West Bank minus 60 percent of it? I mean, how can this be? Its unreal. Essentially, thats what it really meant. So thats one test. And there was no change in their policy on that. None, whatsoever. I mean, I remember, because I would struggle. A lot of my focus was on economic development and really getting the economy to move and all of that sort of thing. And we were hamstrung by those policies, for sure. Nevertheless, we engaged in a cat-and-mouse game with the Israelis, kind of, really building without permit. And I stand constantly accused with being a thief of Jewish land, because they would not allow us to do it, so wed just go ahead and do it. Sometimes they demolish, we build again. So thats one area; the other is security. Now, Israel was not supposed to, under Oslo, to send its troops to area A, meaning urban areas. If you know Ramallah I dont know if you do or not, but in any event outside of the city, it is a little bit roundabout. In the early second intifada days, the Israeli army would come in, but would not cross beyond the roundabout. In the spring of 2002, that was broken. They sent the army into the urban centers to stay for a while, then they disengaged from the cities. But they maintained the practice of in-and-out raids. Thats what they were doing. Now, promise that we stood on we stood on doctrine of nonviolence. Thats important in everything we did. And what is it that I was telling people when I visited the region? I used to spend about half of my time touring the country, going to refugee camps. What was it I was talking about? We stand on nonviolence, and we believe in it. Its going to deliver us a state. From my point of view, the most important deliverable on Israels side would have been to stop the incursions, the military raids into area A. I would have taken that and kind of made a poster out of it, basically saying, see? We told you. Because the Israelis were on record many times, and to this day, they repeat the same story. If there is security, we will not send the troops. But there was a marked improvement in security conditions in those four years that I described to you, and this is matter of record they would admit. My biggest, most important ask of the Israelis, both directly to them and acting through international community, especially the United States, in discussions, meeting after meeting, conferences and all: We need for the incursions to stop. Why? Because what defines a state more than where its security services are nothing else defines statehood more than having your own security there, not Israeli security. The message that would have come out of action by Israel on something like this would have been unmistakably understood as meaning, Israel sees, as an endgame, a separate sovereign Palestinian entity. They didnt. They did not even reduce the frequency. And sometimes they would just send the troops just for showboating. Theres nothing. ezra klein One of the things youll hear most often on the Israeli side is that it never had a partner for peace or even a partner. And there are times, I think, where theres some truth to that. But theres also this period where Abbas is president and youre prime minister I think the view of many, many people is that you were trying to build the kind of state that Israel and the international community had all said, this is what we want a state that has security cooperation with Israel, that is managing security within the West Bank, that is focusing on economic development, that is committed to nonviolence. And there is a set of things Israel could have done to help make you successful and to help make what you were doing seem legitimate in the eyes of Palestinians. Right? Like, if you go this path, we get what we want, or we get some amount of what we want. salam fayyad Exactly. ezra klein And there are things they could do to make you look not successful. Right? Theres cooperation, but youre getting nothing. This path is not going to lead you anywhere. salam fayyad Yes. ezra klein And it sounds like youre saying they chose the latter. The salam fayyad Yes. ezra klein it will not lead you anywhere. salam fayyad Yes. And the most obvious example of that, of course, which everybody talks about and realizes and recognizes as a key contributor to loss of confidence in the capacity of the framework to deliver Palestinian statehood continued settlement expansion. I mean, thats obvious. And administration after administration, secretary of state after secretary of state, envoys, Arab countries were making the point to really bring this to an end. It did not. But what not many talked about was this other point about security that I told you. And that would have been a very, very powerful message, had they really delivered on that. And they really have to defend their record on this one. Because they lived up to it up until 2002. But I thought that if we defied the odds, I mean, that process of really working against the odds is something that actually inspires people. And you take risks doing it, but you believe in it. I mean, after all, even if it failed politically, it certainly would be important for us to really embark on a path like that. Because it leads to empowerment of our own people. And in any scenario, self-empowerment is absolutely essential. Thats key. You have to believe in it. You have to do it. So we took that bet, but no delivery, and then the process fell apart. ezra klein If Netanyahu had lost rather than won in 2009, do you think it would have been any different? salam fayyad Thats a good question. Certainly, it did not make things easier when you have a prime minister whod come in and, from day one, says I mean, actually, even going back to 1996 when he first came. He ran against Oslo, when he knew that Oslo actually specifically did not provide for Palestinian statehood. To this day, hes taking credit for having been the prime minister who ran against Oslo, and he opposed Oslo, and he brought it down. So he started to not make things easier. And I want to be fair to the record here, in addition to reflecting my own convictions. But out of caring about projecting to you how I really feel about this, I cant say to you that youre looking at someone who never really felt that the idea of a sovereign state of Palestine on the territory that Israel occupied in 1967 was ever internalized by the Israeli body politic or a center of gravity. Thats what I truly believe. Lets just really move, fast-forward to 2020. In what, arguably, can be described as a version of a two-state solution because people say, two-state solution. They dont define it. So Trump can say, oh, yeah, here is one, one state of Palestine, one state of Israel. Not many people read the fine print, or even the full print, of the plan itself. But its very clear to this reader of it me, myself there is no Palestinian sovereignty over even 70 percent of the West Bank that we were going to retain. Why? Its mentioned really casually that Israel would have purview over zoning issues in areas adjacent to the border without defining what adjacent means. Given how narrow a strip of land were really talking about, we could conceivably I dont want to really be hyperbolic about this but conceivably could have the right to come and say, you cant build here in outskirts of Ramallah. So heres the deal. When I looked at what Oslo was about, and how various Israeli governments behaved, and what the Israeli government had to tell its Knesset back in 1995 to get their approval, and even then barely, by saying explicitly, this is really not a serious state, this is a state minus, what I call state of leftovers and if thats the idea, I can tell you its a non-starter. Thats what people should understand. ezra klein So youre prime minister until 2013. salam fayyad Yes. ezra klein The story I have heard about this is that you were pushed out by Abbas. What is the end of your prime ministership? What leads to it? How do you understand it? salam fayyad I did leave, actually, in early June 2013, formally. But I started working on it, going back to 2012. So it took a while. I mean, much like the process I went through when I resigned as finance minister, there were many reasons that really led into that. I was not pushed out. I was not fired, not that. I would have taken that in a bad way, to be honest with you. And I still wouldnt, today, look at it that way. But thats not the truth. The truth is I resigned. ezra klein So that story, you dont feel is true. Its widely believed. salam fayyad No, I resigned. I resigned. I voluntarily resigned. I will tell you a variety of reasons. Over time, I saw this as really not doing what we wanted accomplished. This, to me, was not about premiership. This, to me, was always about an enterprise leading to freedom for our people something big. So April 2011, less than two years into implementing that plan that you referred to the two-year program, I remember, we were declared as ready for statehood. It was in Brussels that we got that endorsement from all of the world. And Israel was around the table, by the way, at that meeting. And thats the statement they issued. What did I say? I said, job is not done. Gaza is not a part of this. To what end are we doing this? And then, the internal dynamics the internal dynamics were compelling for me to really actually leave. And there was beginning a lot of unhappiness within top leadership, taking shots, sometimes needlessly, or without cause or something like that, up and including mobilizing people against an income tax, and with those who are actually demonstrating were instigated by others. So it was really beginning to take on that dimension, which clearly is not really a happy place to be. Another was and I will say this as best as I could while being deferential and not wanting to make a story more dramatic than it really was I have this sense about what government is and what governance is about. And government is a servant. Government should be in the business of really thinking about itself, of itself, as there to serve the people and their interests, and to really look for a way in which it could become, as we were really trying to, a government not only for the people but of the people. And when that didnt happen, and the system started to really veer more in the direction of higher and higher concentration of powers in the executive, thats not a situation I was very happy with, to be honest with you. ezra klein There is this dispute happening now. I mean, what is happening now in Gaza is a horror. Theres this question of who should run it, also a question, in some ways, of who and how the West Bank will be run. And the Palestinian Authority has collapsed in polling among Palestinians. The Israelis say they dont want the Palestinian Authority, or as far as I can tell, any Palestinian control over Gaza or, for that matter, according to Netanyahu, over the West Bank. He at least has said that he does not think having the Palestinian Authority in charge is something he supports. Americans and Europeans want a major essential role for the Palestinian Authority. Youve said that just turning it over to the Palestinian Authority in the P.A.s current condition is a non-starter. Its not going to work. From the perspective of building a Palestinian state, not in terms of its politics but its institutions, its governability, building the kind of thing that you were trying to build, what would you like to see happen? What do you think the realistic proposal is? Not the one that Israel would support, but the one that Joe Biden should demand they support? salam fayyad You describe the conditions of the Palestinian Authority, its standing, politically speaking. And all of these are facts, indisputable facts. Poll after poll shows that, and the most recent one actually is the most damning and devastating. Not surprisingly so. But in any event, we are where we are. So looking at the catastrophe that is Gaza today, there has to be the starting point of conversation. And there are different approaches that were talked about really loudly early on, including ideas like a temporary arrangement, provisional arrangement for Gaza, Gaza-only kind of operation to maybe some people from civil society, business community, dealing with the community all kinds of schemes. And from the very beginning, I thought that would not be the right way to begin. Because that presumed that the day after was going to be a Hamas-less Gaza. The only thing that I was certain was going to happen tens of thousands of Palestinian lives lost because of this war, to no end. And so the most sensible thing to do, from my point of view, was to work with what we have, whats supposed to have been there to begin with the Palestinian Authority. A version of this appears to have been adopted of what I proposed, for what I call a reconfigured Palestinian Authority, reconstituted Palestinian Authority. The Americans now are using the term, revitalized, which could imply more of an administrative, a technocratic kind of strengthening or revitalization. It is not excluded from our own thinking. To the contrary, key responsibility of the government to be formed is to really actually upgrade the capacity of Palestinian Authority, reform its ways in finance, in security, in all spheres of government. But what is needed upfront is political enablement. Political weakness is a key problem. Anyone will tell you that. And if you are this weak politically, you cannot govern. You cannot lead effectively. You cannot do anything. Under normal conditions, you have elections, but we didnt have them in better times. Were not about to have them now. Its time of war, and we cant do that. And the war continuing cannot but really add to the weakness of Palestinian Authority. So what we really need as first order of business is to really impart strength, political strength and viability to P.A., until we can have elections. So I thought, maybe, the way to do it, to find a way to impart credibility and inclusivity to the Palestinian Authority through the higher organ thats the P.L.O. And to do that, you need to expand the P.L.O., because the P.L.O. itself is not representative of Palestinian people in an effective sense. Nominally, yes, thats its title. And I would like for it to forever continue to be that kind of home for us. It means a lot. Palestinians paid dearly for the P.L.O. to be so recognized. So I dont take it lightly. But does it really, today, effectively represent the Palestinian people? It doesnt. Its bet on Oslo failed miserably. And its not inclusive in terms of opposition, differing points of views and all of that. ezra klein In some places, Ive seen you say this. Youve said that to be part of this body, you should have to renounce violence. salam fayyad Correct. ezra klein Hamas, obviously, is the major player here. They are central now in Palestinian politics. Violence is core to their identity. salam fayyad Yeah. ezra klein So isnt it a paradox to say it should be an inclusive body that includes Hamas, but it also must be a body that renounces violence? salam fayyad There is, during this transitional period, commitment to be made by the P.L.O. to nonviolence the expanded P.L.O., meaning everybody will have to really commit to that. And thats not far-fetched. Now, imagine a situation where, lets just say, somehow you mentioned the Americans President Biden comes and says, OK, boys and girls, its time to really be serious. Lets come to the table. We want to resolve this issue within this timeline. And Im throwing full weight of the United States behind this effort. All right, who sits at the table? P.L.O.. And as part of that process, just as was expected of us back in 1993, we signed on to a document, declaration of principles. And in there, what we said was we commit to nonviolence. But thats what the P.L.O. signed on to. And you said something about, violence is part of the Hamas identity. And it was part of the P.L.O.s identity up until they signed that piece of paper in 1993. I mean, factions of the P.L.O. itself, whether Fatah, P.F.L.P., Democratic Front, all of their components, this is armed resistance. You cant forever label a faction as forever being one thing or the other. And history is replete with examples like this. And after all, when peace is made, its not really exactly made between good neighbors and happy neighbors. We need to, at some point, resolve this. But there is an enormous task that lies ahead of us before we really begin to think about the broader dimensions of the conflict and how its going to be resolved and all. The deep scars of this war are going to last forever and ever. There is so much of rebuilding of human life and a livelihood to really begin before we think about all of these other things that really need to go into, to put us back on some kind of track that could lead to a viable Palestinian state in the way that really actually rises and lives up to the expectations and aspirations of our people. There is that human dimension to that, that we really need to focus on. And that should really focus the attention on the need to bring this war to an end today before tomorrow, immediately. Its overdue. All that is really happening now is untold loss of life and livelihood on a daily basis. People look at numbers death and all. But what about the injured? What about lack of medicine? What about lack of food? 25 percent in starvation. No basic amenities of life. This is what were looking at. How is that really going to really help? There has to really be a political solution to this. And Im hopeful that, as a matter of fact, the discussions over a potential deal that could lead to, somehow, weeks of respite during this time no effort should be spared at really bringing this war to an end permanently. ezra klein I really appreciate your time here today. Ill ask you what is always our final question here, which is, what are three books for people who want to understand this better, that you would recommend to the audience? salam fayyad Well, related to what I just was talking about right now, the importance of good governance, for successful nations and all, I mean, the book that comes to mind is there are several, but one that comes to mind is Why Nations Fail by Daron Acemoglu and James Robinson. This is a good read. It is really about two important issues, in the way they explain this about how bad it is to really have high concentration of economic and political power, and how bad it is for countries to be badly governed, meaning poor governance corruption and all of that. Those who are interested in learning about us in English its called The Arabs by Eugene Rogan. The modern Arab history, beginning, maybe, mid-16th century and over the beautiful thing about this book is actually, its done by an Arab but through the prism of how Arabs themselves see themselves and how they lived and experienced various episodes of their lives, like for example, Arab Spring. And the third one how about a novel by a Palestinian writer from Jerusalem? The name of the author is Nadia Harhash. The title Im translating it is On the Trails of Miriam, Miriam being a biblical name. It happens to be a name given to or the name of four women the book is about. It does talk about history and the context of the novel and the occupation and experience of being a woman in a society like ours, in a very good way. I dont know if it has been translated. If it has not, I think its really one good translation away from making this author an internationally renowned literary luminary. ezra klein Well, we have a lot of people in the publishing industry who listen, so maybe theyll maybe theyll get on that. Salam Fayyad, thank you so much. salam fayyad My pleasure. Thank you. ezra klein A gaggle of students from Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh traveled to Florida last month during their winter break. The students, many of them studying to be engineers and scientists, went there to watch a rocket launch that would send a small 4.8-pound robotic rover that they had helped build on its journey to the moon. Afterward, they hoped to have time for some sun and fun, renting a large house just three blocks from the beach. Their trip did not go as planned. We never saw the beach, said Nikolai Stefanov, a senior studying physics and computer science. The rover, named Iris, headed toward the moon on schedule in a perfect inaugural flight of Vulcan, a brand-new rocket. But the spacecraft carrying the rover malfunctioned soon after launch, and the students turned their rental house into a makeshift mission control as they improvised how to get the most out of the rovers doomed journey. We had a mission, said Connor Colombo, the chief engineer for Iris. It wasnt the mission we thought. And in fact, maybe that made it more interesting because we had to do a lot of thinking on our feet, and Im really grateful to have had that. In June, LeRoy Romero drove four hours from his hometown, Peoria, Ariz., to an Applebees in Mexicali, Mexico, to meet Brenda Ochoa for the first time. It was a blind date, set up by a mutual friend who had sensed a potential match. Going in, Mr. Romero, who works as a mortgage loan originator, knew that he found Ms. Ochoa, a 29-year-old casino dealer, attractive and that she was significantly taller than him. He also foresaw one minor issue: Mr. Romero didnt speak Spanish, Ms. Ochoas native language. And she did not speak English. As they shared a margarita, Mr. Romero suggested they use translator apps like Google Translate and DeepL Translate to get to know each other. Acting as their interlocutors, the apps inadvertently created less small talk. The couple talked about their inspirations and where they saw themselves in one, three and five years from now. I felt it was nice without all the useless chatter, Mr. Romero, 45, said. But later that month, Mr. Romero realized there might be an even easier way to communicate. At work, Mr. Romero uses an app called Captions to create videos and answer questions for clients. The app uses artificial intelligence to help users edit and record videos, as well as write scripts and add captions. He recalled his friend nudging him to test the app on Ms. Ochoa, saying, Dude, you got a translation button. Translate, send her a video. TEHRAN, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Iran generated 30 billion U.S. dollars in revenue through oil and gas exports in the first 10 months of the current Iranian calendar year from March 21, 2023 to Jan. 20, 2024, the semi-official Tasnim news agency reported Friday, citing Oil Minister Javad Owji. Owji made the remarks at a meeting in the northeastern city of Mashhad on Thursday night while commenting on his ministry's achievements despite the current sanctions on the country, according to the report. The minister put Iran's current oil production at 3.45 million barrels per day, adding that "under severe sanctions," many of the country's industries had become "self-sufficient." The United States, long embroiled in a row with Iran over its nuclear program, has intensified sanctions on Iran, particularly on its oil exports and banks, since 2018 after it unilaterally withdrew from a 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and world powers. The talks on the revival of the nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, began in April 2021 in Vienna, Austria. Despite several rounds of talks, no significant breakthrough has been achieved since the end of the last round in August 2022. Katherine Ward Tsyrlin was friends with one of Alan Gerard Harbrons roommates, and when she heard stories about him and how much he cared about his friendships, her interest was piqued. The roommate mentioned that Mr. Harbron was using dating apps, including Hinge. So to ensure they would meet and to avoid asking the roommate for an introduction, in case things didnt work out she adjusted her location settings on Hinge to Williamsburg, Brooklyn, where she knew Mr. Harbron lived. When the two matched, Mr. Harbron had no idea that Ms. Tsyrlin had engineered it that way. Their first date was a bar crawl around Williamsburg in April 2019, when they grabbed drinks and danced at the venue Babys All Right. I fancied Kate right away, Mr. Harbron said. Ms. Tsyrlin decided to come clean about her Hinge maneuver, and Mr. Harbron thought it was funny and flattering. They shared their first kiss that night. Mr. Harbron, 31, grew up in Dublin. He has a bachelors degree in visual communications from Technological University, Dublin. He moved to New York in 2016 and works as a graphic designer for clients such as Apple and Airbnb. Several years ago, with the dream of making a book, I set out to learn and document how people around the world make use of thermal waters. At 23 locations across 12 countries, I talked with workers, stewards and experts, who taught me about the local history and personality of each place. Many told me about the ways they manage land and water as a collective. They explained how the presence of bathing places can affect the bodies, communities and cultures. One man got down on his knees and kissed the rug emblazoned with the ships logo. Another lifted his wife and swung her around, ecstatic to be among the roughly 5,000 passengers to embark on the inaugural sailing of the worlds largest cruise ship, the Icon of the Seas. For months, the 250,800-ton ship, which can carry nearly 8,000 people, has been making headlines including some that have criticized its size and potential to damage the environment. But the passengers who plunked down $1,800 to $100,000 and boarded the ship at Port Miami in Florida on Jan. 27, said nothing could have prepared them for the vessels sheer scale. A small plane carrying five people crashed on Interstate 75 near Naples, Fla., on Friday afternoon, exploding in flames and killing two people, according to officials. They said that three of those onboard were able to get out of the plane. The plane, a Bombardier Challenger 600 series jet, crashed on the highway around 3:15 p.m., the Federal Aviation Administration said in a statement. It was not immediately clear whether anyone on the ground was injured. Preliminary information showed that the planes pilot had radioed that the aircraft had had a dual engine failure as it approached Naples Airport, the National Transportation Safety Board said in a statement on Friday. The agency said it would not comment on the cause of the crash during the early stages of its investigation. Since she jumped into the 2024 presidential contest, Nikki Haley has been pleading what she sees as one of the strongest parts of her case: It is time for a new generation of leadership. At first, she argued her point lightly, calling for mandatory competency tests and a move beyond the stale ideas and faded names of the past. But as the race to the Republican nomination has narrowed, the stakes have risen for her and so has the urgency of her message. On Friday, Ms. Haley used the special counsel report on President Bidens handling of classified documents, which called attention to his age and memory, to mount her harshest attack yet against her chief rival, former President Donald J. Trump. Donald Trump has his own mental deficiencies, is prone to temper tantrums and wild rants, she said in an online statement. A lawyer for the chief witness against Representative Matt Gaetz, Republican of Florida, said on Friday that the witness was cooperating with a House Ethics Committee investigation into whether Mr. Gaetz had sex with an underage girl while he was serving in Congress. Fritz Scheller, a lawyer for Mr. Gaetzs former friend and political ally Joel Greenberg, said he provided documents to the committee related to claims Mr. Greenberg has made about Mr. Gaetz. Mr. Greenberg previously told federal investigators that he had witnessed Mr. Gaetz having sex with a 17-year-old girl. Mr. Greenberg has and will cooperate with any congressional request, Mr. Scheller said in an email on Friday. Mr. Greenberg, who pleaded guilty in May 2021 to charges including sex trafficking, is serving an 11-year prison sentence. He had previously cooperated with a Justice Department investigation into whether Mr. Gaetz had engaged in sex trafficking of a minor, a federal offense that carries a minimum of 10 years in prison. Elections officials in Wisconsin voted that the Green Party is eligible to appear on presidential election ballots, a move that could affect the result in a critical battleground state where the winner has been decided by narrow margins. At a meeting of the Wisconsin Elections Commission on Thursday, the commissioners voted unanimously to grant the partys petition, so long as the final paperwork requirements are met. Wisconsin state law guarantees ballot access to parties that receive 1 percent of total votes in a previous election and submit a petition to the elections commission. Its a nondiscretionary thing for the commission. If they comply with those requirements, thats the end of that, said Ann Jacobs, a Democrat on the bipartisan commission. Recent polls suggest a close race between President Biden and former President Donald J. Trump, the dominant front-runner for the Republican nomination, in recent polls of Wisconsin. Democrats fear that a third party bid could draw critical support away from the president. The special counsel report on President Bidens handling of classified information has led to questions about the presidents fitness to run for re-election. Within Mr. Bidens inner circle, no one knows how taxing the job can be more than Jill Biden, the first lady. At times, she has worked to shield him from the sort of off-the-cuff interactions with reporters that occurred on Thursday evening, when Mr. Biden veered away from scripted remarks and started answering questions. In January 2022, after Mr. Biden held a two-hour news conference, the first lady dropped by a meeting with the president and his aides. She asked the group, which included the president, why nobody stepped in to stop it, according to a person who was in the room. Where was the person, she demanded, who was supposed to end the news conference? Officials later apologized to her, according to an account of the episode shared by a person in the room. The disclosure that Ronna McDaniel is planning to step down this month as the leader of the Republican National Committee has set off a new round of jockeying between two of the same men who battled for the co-chairman post last year. As he did last year, Donald J. Trump, the Republican front-runner for the White House, looks likely to back Michael Whatley, an election-denying ally this time, though, as Ms. McDaniels replacement. But Mr. Whatley, the chairman of the North Carolina Republican Party, was not successful last year. And while the former president wields broad influence over who leads the party, his power is not absolute. And Republican committee members may not be in lock step. It looks like a fight is breaking out for chair with conservatives lobbying for Drew McKissick (SC) to take over as interim chair, Tyler Bowyer, a committee member from Arizona, wrote on X on Tuesday night. John Bruton, a former Irish prime minister who led an alliance known as the Rainbow Coalition and played a central role with Britain in an effort to secure peace in Northern Ireland after decades of strife, died on Tuesday in Dublin. He was 76. His family said his death, in a hospital, followed a long illness; they did not specify the cause. Mr. Bruton had also served as the European Unions ambassador in Washington. Feted in death across the political spectrum in Britain and Ireland, Mr. Bruton had a long career in the center-right Fine Gael party. He was his countrys prime minister, or taoiseach (pronounced TEE-shack) in Irish, from 1994 to 1997, a time when Britain was led by Prime Minister John Major of the Conservative Party. The governments in Dublin and London had long acknowledged that they each played a major role in navigating the treacherous sectarian and political divisions of warring Protestants and Catholics in Northern Ireland. People stage dragon and lion dance performances during a celebration ahead of the Chinese Lunar New Year, or the Spring Festival, in Helsinki, Finland, on Feb. 5, 2024. (Photo by Matti Matikainen/Xinhua) Erik Solheim, the former UN under-secretary-general, said the dragon in Chinese culture is a symbol of good luck strength, health, and power. OSLO, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- The dragon in Chinese culture is not a frightening creature, but a symbol of good luck, said a former top UN official in an interview with Xinhua this week. "My Chinese friends wish their babies to be born in the Year of the Dragon," said Erik Solheim, the former UN under-secretary-general and executive director of the UN Environment Programme. "I think the Chinese dragon culture is harmless, the Chinese dragon should not be scared of. Let's rather focus on how to show curiosity and respect for each other." Solheim said that in China, the dragon is a symbol of good luck, strength, health and power. In European folklore, however, the mythical creature has a more ominous reputation. "The dragon has a very central place in Chinese culture. It is also closely connected to the emperor and power. We Europeans more tend to see the dragon as a scary creature that may harm us, maybe inspired by dinosaurs," said Solheim. This photo taken on Jan. 27, 2024 shows some ice lanterns displayed in Oslo, capital of Norway. (Photo by Chen Yaqin/Xinhua) Referring to suggestions that the English translation of the Chinese dragon should be "loong" to differentiate the mythical creature from its Western counterpart, Solheim argued for clarity. "Few people (in the West) know what a loong is. I believe it is better to explain the role of the dragon in Chinese culture," he said, emphasizing the importance of understanding and respect over fear of cultural symbols. Solheim dismissed concerns that referring to Chinese people as "descendants of the dragon" could cause unease in the West, even amidst geopolitical tensions. Instead, he advocated for focusing on mutual curiosity, respect, and collaborative problem-solving over the symbolism of national emblems. This approach, he argued, can help address global challenges such as environmental destruction, economic recovery and conflict. Erik Solheim speaks during an interview at the United Nations Office at Nairobi, Kenya, on Aug. 31, 2018. (Xinhua/Wang Teng) Recalling his extensive travels in China, Solheim expressed a particular fondness for historic cities like Xi'an, Kaifeng, Hangzhou and Suzhou, underscoring the deep impressions left by China's diverse provinces and culture. A winner of the 2023 Chinese Government Friendship Award, Solheim said he has witnessed China's great achievements in developing ecological civilization over the years. The award highlights the importance of solidarity and cooperation among countries in the face of global challenges, he added. "I love China, its history, culture, people, nature, food and recent achievements in development and environment," said Solheim. Prince Harry has settled his privacy claims against a British tabloid publisher, his lawyer told a London court on Friday, two months after a judge found the publisher guilty of widespread and habitual hacking of the princes cellphone. The settlement with Mirror Group Newspapers which his lawyer said would amount to at least 400,000 pounds, or $504,000 brings to an end one battle in Harrys long-running war against the press over its intrusive coverage of his private life. It was as much a financial victory as a symbolic one, which could help defray the legal costs that Harry has run up in years of litigation against the tabloids. In addition to paying for the costs of the case, the Mirror Group would pay additional significant damages, the princes lawyer, David Sherborne, said. We have uncovered and proved the shockingly dishonest way in which the Mirror acted for so many years, Harry said in a statement read by Mr. Sherborne outside the high court. Harry, who did not attend the hearing, said he would continue his mission of exposing what he called the corrupt practices of the tabloids. President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia kept returning to one message over and over in his meandering, two-hour interview with the former Fox News host Tucker Carlson: Russia wants to negotiate a peace deal in Ukraine, albeit on the Kremlins terms. That message seemed aimed at the American right and Republicans in Congress, with an eye to undermining support for aid to Ukraine. If so, the day after the long-anticipated interview, it seemed lost in the muddle. The Russian leaders discursive historical diatribes, delving into everything from the Rurik dynasty to the Golden Horde, dominated commentary about the interview online and overshadowed the message he intended to deliver. In Russia on Friday, experts and even some of Mr. Putins allies were also puzzling over why he gave short shrift to his main ideological commonality with Mr. Carlsons followers: opposition to L.G.B.T.Q. rights and other liberal social causes. A group of Israelis hoping to live in Gaza at the wars end has already published maps imagining Jewish-majority towns dotting the territory. Far-right Israeli lawmakers have drafted plans to make such settlements legal. And Israels national security minister has called for Arab residents to leave Gaza so that Jews can populate the coastal strip. After four months of war and a death toll that Gazan officials say exceeds 27,000 killed, international pressure is mounting on Israel to withdraw from Gaza. But a small group of Israelis is pushing for the opposite: They want Israel to retain control of the territory, from which Hamas launched the deadliest attack in Israeli history, and re-establish the Jewish settlements that were dismantled in Israels 2005 withdrawal from Gaza. The minute the war is over, well build our homes there, said Yair Cohen, 23, a reserve soldier, who said his family was evicted from Gaza in 2005. The question isnt whether we will return when the fighting is over, but if there will be a Gaza. Drop the Socially Conscious Brand Act Wed., May 1, 2019 ...is now greatly determined by companies commitment to causes we believe in. A March Hotwire survey found that nine out of 10 consumers consider themselves conscious of how their... A window has been smashed at a building designated for Ukrainian refugees in Edenderry, Co Offaly. The incident happened last week and the window was replaced earlier this week as extensive renovation works continue at the bold shoe factory building on St Mary's Road, Edenderry. Before the turn of the year, clarity was given on the imminent arrival of Ukrainian refugees to the town after misplaced rumours male refugees from other countries would be accommodated in the building. Fine Gael councillor Noel Cribbin had it confirmed to him that around 50 Ukrainian refugees will arrive in the coming weeks to be placed in the recently refurbished factory. Cllr Cribrin said: "I have at both Edenderry Municipal Council meetings and at Offaly County Council meetings raised the issues of the proposed housing of Ukrainian refugees in Edenderry and for definite clarification as to who is coming, where they're coming from and a breakdown on the numbers of those coming. "I looked for this in writing from Offaly Co Council who are liaising with the Dept of Integration who run this programme so as I could pass on the response to the many who welcome these families, as I do, and to those that are hearing different stories." He went on to share the clarity he has received: "The refugees are all coming from Ukraine with a mix of families, elderly people and single persons from Ukraine; its not confirmed but they are expecting 50, the accommodation at the old shoe factory" which will provide a fully equipped kitchen/dining facilities with separate recreational spaces, including TV area and childrens play area. "The accommodation consists of 14 bedrooms of varying sizes. The building will be issued with a Fire Certificate by the builder to Offaly County Council prior to occupancy, there will be an operations manager on site daily to assist the residents with day to day queries they may have along with normal daily management of the facilities. There will also be full time security personnel initially but its hoped to phase it out gradually. "There will also be cleaning and maintenance staff on site as required. All residents will have been processed through the Ukrainian Transit Hub in City West where they would have received there Temporary Protection Status which includes their personal PPS number and registration with the Department of Justice. "Residents will also receive medical card and along with their PPS number which leaves them eligible to seek work which many of there fellow country people have done to date, other entitlements are permissions to stay for one year which can be extended, full access to the labour market, social welfare income supports, access to education and to medical care. "A community Response Forum is operational in every county and their role is to coordinate the community led response in providing assistance and support to Ukrainian refugees as they are accommodated around the country," his statement continued. He went on to say: "As the sitting Cathaoirleach of the Edenderry Municipal District, I, along with my elected colleagues, will work with all groups to support the integration of Ukrainian refugees into our community and to welcome them wholeheartedly to Edenderry and its my wish to have a welcoming party to meet and greet them when they arrive, probably at the end of January or February 2024. "Finally, there are approximately 1,500 Ukrainian refugees in Offaly presently in Tullamore, Birr, Banagher, Kilcormac and Daingean with to date no issues or problems and they are all very grateful to the Irish people and Government for the warm welcome and supports that they are receiving in towns and villages all over Ireland. In total there are 100,000 Ukrainian refugees in Ireland. "I thank Offaly County Council for the comprehensive update and I hope this eases peoples' fears and concerns as to the refugees who are to move to Edenderry in the coming weeks and months." The Department of Integration previously confirmed to the Offaly Express that its officials were "in ongoing contact with the provider in relation to this property for the purposes of accommodating Ukrainian Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection fleeing the war." They also confirmed the expected capacity of the property would be in the region of 50 people. Ireland is now accommodating over 100,000 people between those fleeing Ukraine and International Protection applicants. "Both UCTAT and IPPS are operating in the context of a severe accommodation shortage," a Department spokesperson said. "As a result it is necessary for the Government to place Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection and International Protection Applicants in accommodation as and when it becomes available. This helps ensure accommodation is available for all those who seek it." The Offaly Express has also contacted gardai in relation to incident of damage at the building. A MAN accused of possessing cannabis in Clara late last year is facing further charges, Tullamore District Court was told. Judge Andrew Cody heard the new charges will be brought against Hai Huy Tran, aged 52 and with an address at River Street, Clara, next week. Mr Tran is currently in custody and appeared before the court on Wednesday, February 7 by video link from Wheatfield Prison. Donal Farrelly, defending solicitor, introduced an interpreter to the court to assist with translating the brief proceedings. Sergeant Justine Reilly said further charges would be brought next week and a book of evidence will be ready on March 6 next. Judge Cody remanded Mr Tran in custody to appear before him next Wednesday, February 14. A month ago Judge Cody noted the length of time Mr Tran had already been in custody and said he would consider a bail application on March 6. Mr Farrelly said his client was in Ireland in difficult circumstances and it was unlikely there would be a bail application. However, he asked that the matter be peremptory against the state on the next occasion if a book of evidence was not ready. Judge Cody made his order peremptory against the state. In addition to a charge of possessing cannabis at the Good Days premises, River Street, Clara on November 4 last, Mr Tran is accused of possessing the drug for sale or supply to others. CAIRO, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- The Egyptian presidency, in response to U.S. President Joe Biden's statement, said Friday that Egypt has opened the Rafah crossing to enable the flow of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip since "the first moment" of the Israel-Hamas conflict. "Egypt has mobilized massive humanitarian aid and relief from itself and other countries," the presidency said, adding that the persistent bombing of the Palestinian side of the crossing by Israel four times obstructed the aid delivery process. On Thursday, speaking to reporters, Biden said, "Initially, the president of Mexico, Sisi, did not want to open the gate to (allow) humanitarian material to get in," mistakenly calling Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi the leader of Mexico. "Egypt endured immense pressure and challenges to smooth the inflow and increase the amount of aid to Gaza," the statement underscored, adding that 80 percent of the aid provided to Gaza came from the Egyptian government, people, and civil societies. The statement reiterated the Egyptian efforts to reach a ceasefire and protect the civilians. Israel has been waging a massive military campaign against Hamas in Gaza since Oct. 7, 2023, after the movement's surprise attack on southern Israel that killed about 1,200 people. The Israeli blockade and bombardment of Gaza have so far killed nearly 28,000 Palestinians, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said Friday. The aid trucks first entered Gaza through the Rafah crossing on Oct. 21, 2023, while wounded people and foreign passport holders have been entering the Egyptian side since the beginning of last November. Three people have been arrested by gardai investigating an arson attack at a building earmarked for homeless accommodation in Dublin. The former pub in Ringsend in Dublin was set alight on New Years Eve amid speculation it was going to be used to house international protection applicants. As part of the investigation, four houses were searched under warrant on Thursday morning during an operation in the Dublin area, gardai said. Two men, aged in their 30s and 50s, and a woman aged in her 20s, were arrested and number of items of evidential value were seized, including electronic devices, in the course of the operation. All three were questioned at a garda station in the Dublin region. On Thursday afternoon, the woman aged in her 20s was released without charge while the two men remained in custody. It comes after a property in Leixlip, Co Kildare, was set alight in the early hours of Wednesday morning. The house was rumoured to be planned accommodation for asylum seekers. The building, according to gardai, was the subject of a significant volume of misinformation, disinformation and rumour in relation to its use or intended purpose. The seven-bedroom detached house in Leixlip was wrongly linked to housing for asylum seekers. It is the latest in a series of attacks on properties that have been linked to housing for refugees. It comes days after vacant buildings in Brittas in Co Dublin were set alight. Putin held a rare interview that aired yesterday evening, and it was peppered with baffling statements and this one weird action. Russian President Vladimir Putin is not one to give interviews often. His whole life and leadership is shrouded in mystery as rumours are continuously circulating about his family, health and war tactics. However, ex-Fox News host Tucker Carlson flew to Moscow for an exclusive with the Russian despot which aired on Thursday 8 February. Discover our latest podcast The footage of the meeting has caused an explosion of online commentary as Putin ploughed through controversial statements and did something with his leg that observers were quick to pick up on. Heres everything you need to know. Putins leg Putins health has already caused a lot of speculation over the years. The Russian President has been said to be suffering from a variety of diseases, such as cancer and Parkinsons, but nothing has ever been confirmed. This came to a peak in October 2023 when Russian Telegram channel General SVR claimed that the Russian President had suffered a cardiac arrest and died. The Kremlin has viciously denied these allegations. This time around, the focus was on Putins leg, which he seemed to be flexing before using his hand to push it down again. This has sparked yet more commentary online as users called the movement strange. One user, @11007_gf_Misty, wrote: He 'strokes foot down'...and then is very self conscious of his action. Almost hoping no one noticed it...or it didn't seem odd. This is not the first time Putins lower half has got people talking: last year, he was seen twisting his feet when he met with Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon and people thought this could be a symptom of Parkinson's. Putin will invade other European countries if During the interview, Putin also spoke about his plans for the war in Ukraine. There has been a tremendous loss of life on both sides of the conflict since Russia invaded the neighbouring country in February 2022, and several threats have been issued to the rest of Europe by Russian officials and propagandists. However, during this interview Putin stated that there is only one cause that could prompt him to spread the war further into Europe. Putin said that Western leaders are trying to scare their people by creating an imaginary Russian threat. Calrson asked what would push him to invade Poland or Latvia, and the Russian President answered: Only in one case, if Poland attacks Russia. Why? Because we have no interest in Poland, Latvia or anywhere else. Why would we do that? We simply don't have any interest. It's just threat mongering. He added that those who are engaged in real politics, just smart people, understand perfectly well that this is a fake. Putins comments about Boris Johnson Another part of the two-hour conversation brought another unexpected person into the spotlight: Boris Johnson. Boris, who was Prime Minister from July 2019 to 6 September 2022, is unlikely to be happy about what was said. He was in office when Russia invaded Ukraine, and Putin bizarrely claimed that he was responsible for the ongoing fighting in the country. He called the former PM arrogant and stated that he sabotaged a peace deal: It's very sad to me... we could have stopped these hostilities with war a year and a half ago already. Boris, who is enjoying time with his family and new baby, has dismissed these claims as total nonsense. Read more: Vladimir Putin: Russian president reveals how much he earns in race for re-election Vladimir Putin: Drone footage reveals details about Putins secret luxury home near Finland Vladimir Putin in the spotlight after recent photos due to strange facial expressions Sources used: The Sun: WHAT THE TUCK Putin warns of WW3, brags about unstoppable weapons, & blames BORIS for Ukraine in rambling Tucker Carlson interview Mirror: Vladimir Putin reveals the 'one case' when Russia would invade more European countries Newsweek: Putin Spotted Using Hand to Put Leg in Place During Tucker Carlson Interview YAOUNDE, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- At least two people were killed in a fire accident at a camp for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Cameroon's Far North Region, officials and local police said on Friday. The fire, which broke out in a tent on Thursday night, gutted other shelters in the Ndaba locality that hosts the IDPs. Two children who were unable to escape were killed in the tragedy. Local police said that at least 100 shelters were destroyed, while dozens of households in the camp were displaced. Rescue workers were conducting an assessment to determine the extent of the damage, and the victims were in critical need of food, shelter, and other items, according to the police. Fires in camps and communities where IDPs are resettled have become common in the semi-arid region, where temperatures sometimes reach 46 degrees Celsius. YAOUNDE, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Gunmen have killed two hostages and released seven others in Cameroon's restive Anglophone region of Northwest, local authorities said on Friday. The freed hostages, including four women, were received early Friday by Adamu Shuaibu Ibrahim, the sub-prefect of Ndu, a subdivision of the region. It was not immediately clear if they were freed after a military operation or if a ransom had been paid for their release. They were abducted on Tuesday along with an official in the region's Ntumbaw village while on their way to an official ceremony. KUALA LUMPUR, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- The number of unemployed persons in Malaysia continued to fall to 567,800 persons in December 2023 from 569,200 persons in the previous month, with an unemployment rate of 3.3 percent, official data showed Friday. The Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) said in a statement that positive employment trends observed in the final month of 2023 were indicative of the nation's economic foundations, driven by a continuing growth in economic and social activities. According to the DOSM, the number of labor force remained increasing in December 2023, with an addition of 0.1 percent month-on-month to 17.03 million persons, recording a higher labor force participation rate of 70.2 percent. The number of employed persons also continued on a positive trend, with a month-on-month increase of 0.2 percent to 16.46 million persons. It is time to hold governments to account for ending tobacco SHOBHA SHUKLA - CNS End tobacco is an imperative if we are to deliver on SDGs (Image by CNS) Details DMCA Currently the intergovernmental talks on the legally binding global tobacco treaty are taking place in Panama. This meeting, formally called the tenth session of the Conference of the Parties (COP10) to the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC), has delegates from 183 countries representing more than 90% of the world's population, to review progress in the implementation of the global tobacco treaty, and take the next steps to help achieve the right of all people to lead healthy lives. Daniel Dorado, Tobacco campaign Director at Corporate Accountability, rightly says that these talks are a critical venue to advance the global campaign to hold Big Tobacco accountable and liable for its deadly products. He informs that over 30,000 signatures have been delivered onsite to government delegates attending the tobacco treaty talks showing the broad support from people around the globe to make Big Tobacco pay for its deadly products. The global tobacco treaty (WHO FCTC) is the first ever public health and corporate accountability treaty of the WHO. If implemented fully it will protect human and environmental health. It plays a pivotal role in saving lives even as the tobacco industry comes up with newer tactics to entice new consumers and mint more profits. Article 5.3 of the FCTC acknowledges the inherent conflict between the industry and public health policy. It calls to "Protect public health policies from commercial and other vested interests of the tobacco industry." It prohibits the tobacco industry from having any role in policymaking. However, Big Tobacco still interferes with the treaty, year after year, to protect its profits. The tobacco industry is always present in the spaces in which the governments are trying to regulate it. Asian Tobacco Industry Interference Index The Asian Tobacco Industry Interference Index 2023 published by the Southeast Asia Tobacco Control Alliance (SEATCA) measure the compliance of Article 5.3 in 19 Asian countries on a score of 0 to 100. The higher the score, the worst is the country's performance. Japan has the strongest tobacco industry interference (score is 88), followed closely by Indonesia (80), Malaysia (76), China (73), Bangladesh( 72) and Lao PDR (70). In contrast, the governments of Brunei with a score of 14 and Mongolia (score of 38) emerge as leaders in their ongoing efforts to combat tobacco industry interference. Brunei, Lao PDR, Maldives, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, India and Thailand have enforced prohibitions on the tobacco industry's corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities. In Brunei and Lao PDR, stringent regulations are in place to prevent engagement with the tobacco industry. However, despite these prohibitions, government endorsements of them have been recorded in India, Myanmar, and Thailand during the monitoring period of the Index. In India, significant amounts of CSR contributions by tobacco companies continue to occur, particularly in the areas of agriculture and livelihood. During the COVID-19 pandemic, tobacco companies increased their CSR contributions. In Myanmar, JTI continues its initiative to provide drinking water for refugees. In Thailand, the Tobacco Authority of Thailand organized the "See, Taste, Shop Chiang Rai Tobacco" project for Chiang Rai residents, facilitating agricultural product trading. In Indonesia, CSR activities are encouraged under national laws. While there is a restriction of tobacco industry sponsorships, it is weakly enforced. Tobacco industry CSR is not banned and remains a big problem in Cambodia, Malaysia, Philippines, and Vietnam. In Cambodia, the industry engaged in various COVID-19 relief efforts, including providing alcohol dispensers and banners to the Ministry of Justice, distributing food packages in lockdown areas, and donating disinfection supplies to provincial administration. With the exception of Brunei, which has prohibited duty-free tobacco products, all countries surveyed still permit duty-free allowances for international travelers. This practise undermines the effectiveness of tobacco taxation, and promotes and normalizes tobacco use. The good news Some countries are taking preventive measures. Ten countries, namely Brunei, India, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Maldives, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, the Philippines, and Thailand, have proactively introduced policy measures aimed at safeguarding the bureaucracy or a specific ministry or department from undue interference by the tobacco industry. Policies for disclosing records of interactions with the tobacco industry and its representatives are in place in countries such as Brunei, India, Maldives, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. Nepal is also in the process of drafting such a policy. However, the effectiveness of these policies is hindered by the fact that governments do not disclose or make information from these interactions available to the general public. Next Page 1 | 2 (Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher). Citizen News Service - CNS Social Media Pages: Citizen News Service (CNS) specializes in in-depth and rights-based, health and science journalism. For more information, please contact: www.citizen-news.org or @cns_health or www.facebook.com/cns.page The views expressed herein are the sole responsibility of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of this website or its editors. OpEdNews depends upon can't survive without your help. If you value this article and the work of OpEdNews, please either Donate or Purchase a premium membership. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Either this nation shall kill racism, or racism shall kill this nation." (S. Jonas, August, 2018) [Again, no pic. There have been too many of you-know-who already.] ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Introduction On February 15, 2021 (just about three years ago) I published a column that assumed that Trump's Jan. 6 coup attempt had succeeded in one way or another, and that he stayed in the Presidency. E.g., the mob did fully take over the Capitol, causing many Members of Congress of both parties to flee. Then, with a minority of Members remaining (mostly those Republicans who had been set up for the Insurrection in advance [like those who gave tours of the Congress the night before], one would assume), either: 1) Pence went along with Trump. Or 2) Pence was actually hung or otherwise gotten rid of. Then Chuck Grassley became President pro tem of the Senate and bought right into the "let's accept the alternate-electors-right-here-and-now" scheme. Or 3) the Cruz-Hawley "let's send the Electoral votes back to the states for a ten-day review" scheme was adopted, with the result that the "alternate electors" that presumably would be chosen ended up providing a majority for Trump. Further, there were other alternatives. After all, the Insurrection was just a few minutes away from being successful. Depending upon how many weapons the armed units of the Insurrectionists had with them, the Secret Service and Capitol Police details could have been slaughtered. Mike Pence and Nancy Pelosi could have been caught and summarily executed, along with numbers of Senators and Congresspeople and their staffs. Various hostages, like supposedly persuadable "pro-Trump" folk, could have been taken. (You can imagine who they might be.) And so on and so forth. Of course, none of the above alternatives are anywhere to be found in the Constitution. And for the events outlined above to have occurred, the assumption also is that neither the military nor any of the State National Guards would have intervened. (Actually, given who the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs was at the time, that non-intervention would have been highly unlikely.) At the time, however, there were Trumpers who actually thought that they could pull this off, and so, for the sake of the fictional history presented in this column, in one way or another Trump stays in the Presidency. And thus, in one way or another events could have proceeded to the scenario described briefly below, in a column that I could have written following a Trump Takeover in 2021 (slightly modified and edited for presentation here). ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ "Trump Wins" (Written sometime in February, 2021, from an unknown location. With no illustration[s] this time. Web access is VERY limited.) Hello everyone. This may be the last column that I will be able to write for quite some time now. It is being published under an encryption software that I am told is difficult to break through. But the Trumpers have as many cryptologists on their side as we do on ours. So, who knows? In the meantime, I am trying to get myself and my family out of the country. But since Canada has closed the border to U.S. that is becoming increasingly difficult, for a variety of reasons that most of you know about all too well. As for the details of what happened following the success of the January 6 "Glorious Insurrection," as the Trumpublicans call it, the barest of those historical details are being written down here for the benefit not of yourselves, for you know many of them all too well, but for a future time when a true history can be written. Rather, the words are presented here for those many persons around the world who know that they cannot trust what comes out of the mouths of Trump himself, and of the spokesmen and women of the type who inhabited the White House, 2017-2021, as well as his shills on you-know-which-TV-"news"-channel, and the rapidly increasing number of further-to-the-fascist-right propaganda channels. (For the record, our side of course will record January 6 as a Date in U.S. history that Shall Live in Infamy, just as Dec. 7, and 9/11, have done.) First, as to the events of January 6. As is well-known, the Capitol was breached, by an incoherent mob on the one hand, and by a well-organized strike force made up of members of several right-wing militias on the other. The mob-members were there just to protest, in a violent way to be sure (breaking and entering, destroying furniture, hardware, electronics, papers, records, and etc.) but without a plan for revolution, that is to overturn the certified results of the 2020 Presidential Election. A much smaller, very well-armed, group was intent on doing the latter. Although of course Trump was the principal beneficiary of the organized terrorists' actions, it is still unclear just how much he was directly involved in the planning of the event and equipping of the forces. Certain of his publicly known allies certainly were, in what has come to be called "The Willard Cabal.) (And surely there will not be a Congressional Committee to investigate that matter for a very long time, if ever.) But when the outcome that happened happened, Trump was delighted to go along with it, as were his many minions in the House and the Senate (at least those who survived the onslaught). Since the Trumpists are now fully in charge of what was the Department of Justice, the Secret Service, the CIA, the Department of Defense, the intelligence services, and etc., it is not likely that we will know the true extent of the events anytime soon, if ever. But we do know what happened on the ground, to the benefit of one Donald J. Trump, his family members (and it is important to note that there is a feudalistic/monarchical element to just about everything he does), and the formerly rapidly dwindling number of acolytes both within and outside of government, which number then exploded upwards after the reality of the success of the coup rapidly became clear. As is well-known, the principal objective of the organized terrorists was the disruption of the formal counting of the electoral votes from the 2020 election. That was accomplished fairly easily. As is well-known, the terrorist leadership of the mob was intent on hanging Vice-President Mike Pence, which they horrifyingly did, on the gallows that had been erected for that purpose in front of the Capitol. As for the Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, when caught she was just summarily shot in the head, just as various far-rightists had been advocating for quite some time, and left on the floor of the House Chamber. (Rumors that before being shot she was sexually assaulted, as certain of the Insurrection leaders had advocated, cannot be confirmed.) The formal Electoral Vote counting and tabulating was obviously stopped. The terrorists went looking for other Democratic Senators and Representatives who had begun to flee as soon as it became apparent that a fascist coup was underway. Some were caught and immediately executed, but others (and we do not know how many) were able to get away and flee to Canada (as did the President and Vice-President-elects and their families). There, a Government-in-Exile has already been set up. The location of the members of the Supreme Court is unknown, but the Trumpists are referring no court cases to them. In fact, the whole Federal Court system nationally has been suspended. Certain Trump-favorable state courts have been allowed to stay in existence. We do not at this time know all the details as to exactly what was finally done with the reported Electoral vote documents, but they were obviously immediately sequestered by the Trumpists. In response to the violence that he and his people had instigated, the President immediately declared a national emergency and martial law. But it was a peculiar kind of martial law, for it did not employ the regular U.S. military. The Trump-appointed Secretary of Defense had ordered the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs and the Chiefs of Staff of the four main military branches to stand down. as were any remaining non-Trumper Congressperson who did not manage to get away safely. When they refused to do so, they were immediately interned by Trump's New Militia, the TNM, a force made up of members of the various right-wing paramilitary forces who had been gathered from around the country. An increasing number of TNM members began to appear in units that had received some training and wore something of a uniform characterized by a shirt of a particular color that had been secretly produced in some numbers in various locations around the country. The Trump Sec.-Def. (confirmed by the remaining Trump-Congress-persons [see below]) then appointed new Service Heads, loyal to Trump of course. They in turn ordered the forces under their command to stand down. The prelude to this production was the vast number of "Trump" flags, banners, and outfits that had been on display during the "Glorious Insurrection" and at other locations around the country. (To date, there has been no information available on the firm or firms that produced the vast numbers and amounts of Trump-paraphernalia, including the very large "Trump" banners of various types, over a period of many months, starting from before the election of Nov. 3.) The choice of color for the shirts was historically logical. The shirt colors for the major 20th Century fascist parties were already taken, Black by the Italian fascists, Brown by the German Nazis of the Sturmabteilung (SA, "Storm Division"), and Blue by the Spanish fascists. Given the color of "MAGA hats" and the tie that Trump always wore, the logical color for the Trumpist military-style uniform shirts was red. (Of course, few Trumpites realized, least of all Trump himself, that red was the color of the anti-fascist Communist Parties that had existed round the world in so many countries in the 20th century, and was still the national color for the remaining Communist Parties, as in China and North Korea.) And so, the Trumpist militia became The Red Shirts (the shade of red for them of course being the shade of Trump's ties). They emerged all over the country in numbers much larger than anyone could have anticipated they would. What we would regard as a rump Congress, House, and Senate, convened the next day, consisting primarily of those Republican Congresspersons and Senators who had asserted, in one way or another, that the election was a sham and had been stolen from Trump. They conveniently ignored the deaths/disappearance of many of their colleagues as the unfortunate by-products of the necessary "taking back of the elections." Trump then conveniently delayed Inauguration Day, and the Cruz-Hawley "Ten Day Recount" mechanism was put into effect. (Of course, it had no basis anywhere in the Constitution or even in Federal law or regulation, but that matter was easily by-passed, just by not mentioning it, as had been the case when it was proposed by Cruz/Hawley just before the Insurrection.) The result was predictable. In those swing states that had had significant numbers of "Black votes," they were thrown out as fraudulent. (Except that the results of those same elections that resulted in wins for Republicans at the state and local levels were not thrown out.) The New Congress created a temporary new date for Inauguration, February 7th, a Sunday. Since the event could not be held at the significantly damaged Capitol, it was held at the National Cathedral, which had been taken over from its customary apolitical management by a council chosen by the alliance of Christian Rightist organizations that not too long before had designated Trump as having been sent to the U.S. by God. Once back in the White House, Trump moved quickly to achieve many aims of his own agenda and those of the Republican Party as well. With a rump Congress, most of the Democratic members except for a few "Centrists" (the Canadian word for the latter was "decoratifs") having fled, this was fairly straightforward. Any of the mass media which the newly established "Office for the Truthifying of the Media" labeled as "Fake News" were immediately shut down. The Armed Forces were permanently confined to barracks, and as noted the senior officership was replaced with Trump loyalists, as had happened to the civilian leadership of the Defense Department in the last days of the first Trump term. Republican governors were empowered to replace any National Guard commanders who were regarded as "disloyal" by the Trumpists. As for the Trump-program, this time with no Congress to object and with the courts either sidelined or firmly in the Trump camp, a number of measures were quickly undertaken. What had been called "Obamacare" was abolished, as was Medicaid, so that the so-called "self-supporters" in the Red States (who were really freeloading off the Blue States) would no longer have to pay for the misleadingly-termed "dependents." The Environmental Protection Agency was abolished so that "free competition" could be allowed to "flourish." All national education aid was to be funneled to religious schools since the states should be able to support public education on their own. The border wall was scheduled for rapid completion. Deportations at the Southern border, of both adults and unaccompanied minors was ramped up. As far as COVID-19 was concerned, just as the President had proposed at one point, testing was cut back so that the apparent number of cases declined. If hospitals reported problems, that was the result of their own mis-management, which they would have to fix. "Re-education centers" were set up all over the country to house adults and children who were deemed by the Red Shirts Teams not to be compliant with The Program. Of course, the actual number of coronavirus infections and deaths soared. As noted at the beginning of this column I am hoping to leave soon. But hey, you never know. I hear that Canada and Mexico, if you can get through (illegally in the case of Canada) to either one and safely across the border, are filling up and may soon have to stop accepting refugees. At the same time, I am hearing talk of secession for the three Pacific states and those in the Northeast, either together or separately. But so far that is only talk. Unlike the Southern-dominated states did at the time of the First Civil War --- fight for secession --- this time around those same states --- which are the center for Trumpite fascism --- plus many of the mid- and upper-Western states like South Dakota --- would likely fight hard against it, dependent as they are for so much of the revenues being paid out to them by the states on the two coasts, something that I had written about when we still had a country. And so on and so forth. I cannot stay on what is left of the internet for too long, in case the Red Shirts could find me. Hopefully, I and my family will somehow be able to get to Canada or Mexico soon, before the borders are totally shut down, and thus will be able to be writing to/for you again, as the struggle against the full-blown Trump Fascist machine that has taken over our nation goes on. (Article changed on Feb 10, 2024 at 10:35 AM EST) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [Atlanta, GA] - Mikeze Labs today announced the launch of an interactive black history educational platform named Blackclass.org. This Atlanta based tech company said it is imperative to address the needs of students who are being impacted by the rollback of Black History in schools nationwide. "The rollback of black history in schools leaves a lot of students feeling not included in the unique tapestry of America. Our A woman is dead and a man is in police custody after a shooting inside a home prompted lockdowns in Southeast Portlands Lents neighborhood Thursday morning, police said. Portland police have not yet publicly identified the man they detained or the woman officers found dead inside the home at the corner of Southeast 100th Avenue and Yukon Street. There were no official arrests by 2 p.m., said police spokesperson Mike Benner. Today is National Pizza Day. Not to be confused with World Pizza Day, which happened on Jan. 17. Or National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day, which is Nov. 12. Or National Pizza Month, which is celebrated during October. So, maybe its arbitrary. But we couldnt pass up the chance to celebrate Oregons best pizzas, some of which might even be the worlds best pizzas. Heres a run-down of our favorite local pizza options, a quartet that The Oregonians food critic Michael Russell calls Portlands pizza Mount Rushmore. Kens Artisan Pizza While the list that proclaimed Kens Artisan Pizza (304 S.E. 28th Ave.) the second-best pizza in the entire world might be a little sketchy, Kens is an undoubted Portland institution that serves up some fine pies. Since that worlds best list came out, Kens has been proclaimed the No. 3 pizza in the United States by Italys Top 50 Pizza organization, a pretty legit honor. That same group later ranked Kens No. 19 worldwide. If you go: Kens specializes in wood-fired, Neapolitan-inspired pies with super crispy crusts and simple seasonal ingredients. Dont expect to find pineapple, but ranch is available on the side. The wood-fired oven at Ken's Artisan PizzaThe Oregonian/2016 Scotties Pizza Parlor Scotties Pizza Parlor (2128 S.E. Division St.) has been serving up classic New York-style thin-crust pizzas in Southeast Portland since 2015. Scotties pizzas are available by the slice. If you want to venture outside the foldable NY-style pizzas, the 16-inch square grandma style pizza is the way to switch it up. If you go: You can get a par-baked pizza to finish in the comfort of your own home, like an upmarket Papa Murphys experience. A pepperoni slice at Scottie's Pizza Parlor on Southeast Division Street in Portland. February 28, 2018Beth Nakamura/The Oregonian Lovelys Fifty Fifty Lovelys Fifty Fifty (4039 N. Mississippi Ave.) serves up creative, seasonal pizzas in North Portland. Food critic Michael Russell described the pizza at Lovelys as Kens Artisan Pizza after a hike through the Oregon forest, referring to the fresh and unique local ingredients atop most of the pies. The pizzeria was one of Russells picks for 2016s best Portland restaurants. If you go: Ask for some flowers on your pie. A chanterelle mushroom pizza is prepped at Lovely's Fifty Fifty in Portland on Friday, October 27, 2023.Vickie Connor/The Oregonian Apizza Scholls This iconic Portland spot just celebrated its 20th anniversary in January. The East Coast-style pies at Apizza Scholls (4741 S.E. Hawthorne Blvd.) are widely considered Portlands best, and the crowd waiting for tables at this Southeast Portland pizzeria is a testament to its popularity. If you go: Sometimes they, uh, run out. Of pizza. Order early (they only take orders via phone) if you want a pie to go. The restaurant starts taking phone orders at 4 p.m. daily. Apizza Scholls in Portland serves house pies as well as classics, like pepperoni, on Tuesday, November 7, 2023.Vickie Connor/The Oregonian There are plenty of newer entrants to the Portland pizza scene that are worth a visit, too. These places are newer but got rave reviews from our food critic. No Saint The inventive pizza at No Saint (1603 N.E. Killingsworth St.) is offered alongside rustic salads, baked pastas and good wine. Highly recommended for date night just in time for both National Pizza Day and Valentines Day. Pan Con Queso Pan Con Queso (628 S.E. Belmont St.) offers pizza with nontraditional toppings that fuse the founders Mexican and Pacific Islander heritages with a well-made pie. Pan Con Queso is housed in the Living Haus brewery space on Southeast Belmont. Mucca Pizzeria Mucca Osteria (1026 S.W. Morrison St.), one of Portlands most quietly beloved Italian restaurants, opened a pizzeria alongside its original location on Southwest Morrison Street to rave reviews. A pepperoni and pineapple quince pizza above and an alla Gricia-inspired pie below at No Saint, a new Northeast Portland pizzeria.Michael Russell | The Oregonian At the end of the day, no matter where you choose to get your slice, Portland is a great pizza town. Dont let anyone tell you differently. Changes in the way the federal government calculates financial aid for Americas neediest college students is having ripple effects in Oregon, likely forcing adjustments to who qualifies for state financial aid and how much theyll receive. In addition, the federal governments monthslong delays in overhauling its Free Application for Federal Student Aid, which determines eligibility for state and federal scholarships, is driving anxiety across the higher education spectrum. Many students dont yet know how much financial help theyll receive for college next year. Institutions havent been able to send out financial aid awards, which help shore up enrollment. And the states Higher Education Coordinating Commission is not certain how federal grant changes will impact the states allocation of financial aid. We are a bit anxious to see how it all plays out for students over the next couple of months, Dana Richardson, director of public university group the Oregon Council of Presidents, said in public testimony before the commission on Thursday. In Oregon, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, determines whether students qualify for Federal Pell Grants of up to $7,400 and whether they qualify for a need-based Oregon Opportunity Grant. The application usually opens to students around October. But the 2024-25 FAFSA was delayed until the end of December as the U.S. Department of Education worked through a rocky revamp of the form, intended to make it easier to fill out and to expand the number of students who qualify for aid. Many colleges and students report the new application remains glitchy. Federal education officials have said more students will qualify for federal financial aid under a change in the way that the federal government calculates student need. That in turn means more students are also expected to qualify for the maximum Oregon Opportunity Grant, which was $7,500 for a university student and $3,900 for a community college student in 2023. Under the old federal eligibility calculations, some 56% of students who qualified for an Oregon Opportunity Grant earned the maximum award for the current academic year. The commission estimates that up to 74% would qualify for that maximum grant under the new federal formula. Thats good news for Oregons lowest-income students, said Ben Cannon, director of Oregons higher ed commission, but a challenge for the state financial aid budget. If more students get the largest aid award, the commission will likely have to revise its grant distribution to avoid running out of money. The commission doesnt plan to limit the amount of money it is giving the highest-need students, Cannon said Thursday. But it could hasten the deadline to qualify for a grant or lower the cutoff for students who will receive a partial award. It is considering eliminating grants for students who earn higher than a score of 2,000 on the new federal student aid index, the metric for student need that is replacing the expected family contribution calculated by the FAFSA in years past. That cap could mean that some higher-income students who receive an Oregon Opportunity Grant this year wont receive one next year. Up to 13,660 students who qualified for an opportunity grant this year could be cut off, Cannon said. However, because of the expansion of federal aid, its also possible some of those students will qualify for more Pell Grant money than they have in the past, he said. Its difficult to predict winners and losers of the new financial aid disbursement system before federal and state award calculations are finished. Overall, Cannon expects more Oregon students will benefit because of the Pell Grant expansions. There will be more financial aid, public grant aid, than at any recent point in history for Oregon students, Cannon said. The commission hasnt received any FAFSA data from the federal government yet due to the delays in the rollout, Cannon said. It will decide on award amounts and cutoff levels after it starts to receive FAFSA data in March, he said. At Thursdays commission meeting, Oregon Community College Association Deputy Director John Wykoff asked the commission for more transparency around the financial aid disbursement discussions. Wykoff said that states including California planned for the federal grant change by setting money aside. The commission gave Oregon college advocates confidential projections of FAFSA impacts on Opportunity Grant recipients just three weeks ago, he said. If we would have known about this earlier we could have potentially taken action during the 2024 session, Nick Keough, legislative director for the Oregon Student Association told The Oregonian/OregonLive. That seems unlikely at this point. Cannon acknowledged the anxiety that the education sector is feeling. He told Commission Chair Sandy Rowe that the agency is walking the line of trying to inform advocates while trying to provide accurate data amid changing federal projections. Giselle Gonzalez, a first-year student at Linfield University, is among the Oregon Opportunity Grant recipients who receive just a partial award because her family income is too high to qualify for the highest level. She filled out the FAFSA last year but didnt qualify for a Pell Grant. Gonzalezs parents both work in agriculture and dont have enough income to cover the cost of her college, so she works several jobs and relies on scholarships and small loans. She waited months for the 2024 FAFSA to open in January, then was thwarted by website outages and cumbersome new procedures. The application took her a week to finish, because she had to create newly required profiles for her parents and wait for them to get verified. Gonzalez has finished the form, but shes still waiting for the federal government to review her information and tell her whether she might receive any aid. If she loses the state opportunity grant because of new income cutoffs, Gonzalez said, shed have to scramble to figure out where to find the extra $3,000. Its just up in the air and very nerve wracking not to know, Gonzalez said. Gerardo Ochoa, Linfields vice president for enrollment services, said students could have to wait until April to get their financial aid award letters. The university typically sends those out at the time students are granted admission, even as soon as the fall. Now, students are going to have a short time frame between learning how much college will cost them and needing to commit to attend. Linfield, like other universities, has pushed its commitment deadline from May to June to give students extra time to decide on their next steps. Ochoa worries in particular about the extra hurdle FAFSA delays will create for first-generation students, low-income students and students of color, all of whom already face higher barriers to enrolling in higher education. Its already an overwhelming process, and this years been just a mess of a rollout, he said. If a student has to take six hours to get through (completing the FAFSA), they may just not do it and give up and not enroll anywhere. Precila Fuentes, graduation specialist for migrant students at Ontario High School in eastern Oregon, said seniors there feel crunched between a delayed FAFSA and college deadlines. The class of 2024 really got the short end of the stick, Fuentes said: These seniors started high school amid the COVID-19 pandemic, and for some the FAFSA delays are triggering similar feelings of helplessness and anxiety. Its almost PTSD with FAFSA being released so late for kids and feeling the emotions that they were feeling during COVID time, she said. I dont know exactly how theyre going to recover, trying to enter into the workforce or into higher ed now that theyre facing this new barrier. Sami Edge covers higher education and politics for The Oregonian. You can reach her at sedge@oregonian.com or (503) 260-3430. When she appears on Jeopardy! Portland podcaster Mira Hayward has a way of getting viewers attention. In her first games, in February 2023, Hayward charmed host Ken Jennings and fans with funny anecdotes. But in her recent Champions Wildcard game, Hayward made an inadvertently suggestive gesture that struck many fans as jaw-droppingly sexual. Hayward, who is the daughter of Oregon state senator Elizabeth Steiner, returned to Jeopardy! for a Champions Wildcard game -- in which players from the past season compete for a spot in the upcoming Tournament of Champions -- in the episode that aired Monday. By the time Jennings read the Final Jeopardy! clue, Hayward was in a good position. She was far in the lead, with $16,400, compared to her fellow players totals of, respectively, $8,000 and $1,800. The category was World Flags. The clue: The flag of this Asian nation features part of a world heritage site built in the 12th century. Both Hayward and Kate Compolieta had the correct answer, which was What is Cambodia? Contestant Jesse Chin didnt get the right answer, and instead wrote, Congratulations Mira! In a surprise, all three players wagered $0 as their bet, which meant that Hayward was the winner. So far, so good. Then Hayward celebrated, apparently cheering the zero wager by making O circles with her hands, and waving them in the air. Several Jeopardy! fans thought Haywards moves looked less like a brainy victory dance, and more like a gesture that suggests sexual activity. They wasted no time going to social media to make jokes, which several websites also picked up. For example, Uproxx shared several social media posts, including one who commented on another post about Haywards gesture, declaring, Saw this live and knew she was gonna be an instant legend. Saw this live and knew she was gonna be an instant legend https://t.co/ia7TCPjhyS Trevor Mason (@TrevorMason28) February 6, 2024 Another social media post wondered if this was an example of Jeopardy after dark? Her Champions Wildcard win means that Hayward will be back on Jeopardy! again, to compete in the semifinals, which begin Feb. 16. Jeopardy! airs at 7 p.m. PT on Portlands KATU-TV. No antenna or cable? You can stream Jeopardy! on Sling TV. Kristi Turnquist 503-221-8227; kturnquist@oregonian.com; @Kristiturnquist Our journalism needs your support. Please become a subscriber today at OregonLive.com/subscribe A stream of state officials and people involved in cultural organizations testified in Salem Thursday about how the arts bolster the economy and enrich lives across the state. According to Rep. Janelle Bynum, who chairs the House Committee On Economic Development and Small Business, all 20 people scheduled to testify Thursday at the hearing planned to testify in support of House Bill 4124, which would fund cultural groups in Oregon, many of which missed out on expected funding from the Oregon Legislature in 2023. Looking for comfort food and distinctive crafted items to express affection on Valentines Day? Check out handcrafted goods for sale by Native and Black makers at two free Indigenous Marketplace of Love events in Southeast Portland 2-7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Feb. 9-10. About 10 makers will set up shop both days at Bar Carlo, 6433 S.E. Foster Road. Here, Javelina PDX chef Alexa Sital Numkena-Anderson, who has familial ties to the Hopi and Yakama tribes, will cook up frybread, wild game, foraged foods and other First Foods. Nearby on Saturday only, about 15 more vendors selling Baby Tribal Sasquatch toys to Indigenous art will be at the Southeast Family YMCA, 6036 S.E. Foster Road. People of all ages can enjoy free snacks, participate in kids crafts and hear about the YMCAs new programming. Jumbo fringe earrings made with pool noodles by the community will be on display for the first time, said Lluvia Merello, executive director of Portland Indigenous Marketplace, a nonprofit that hosts pop-up markets throughout the year to support Indigenous and Black artists and entrepreneurs. The first 50 elders, people 60 years and older, each day will receive a gift, said Merello. The Indigenous Marketplace of Love is a time to honor our elders with gifts, celebrate love and Indigenous and Black art and culture, Merello told The Oregonian/OregonLive. Portland Indigenous Marketplace organizes shopping events for more than 100 vendors. No two markets will be exactly the same, said Merello. The nonprofit organizations pop-up markets offer shoppers a large selection of handmade items such as paintings, woven baskets, beaded earrings and necklaces, leather baby moccasins and skin-care products. Portland Indigenous Marketplace also promotes public education through cultural arts, according to indigenousmarketplace.org. Janet Eastman | 503-294-4072 jeastman@oregonian.com | @janeteastman Oregon Physicians for Social Responsibility believes that state-sanctioned execution is immoral. The death penalty is arbitrarily imposed since race, geography and the quality of counsel disproportionately determine who is sentenced to death. Twenty-three states have abolished the death penalty, but in January, Alabama executed Kenneth Smith by an untried method involving nitrogen gas, (Following nations first nitrogen gas execution in Alabama, Ohio looks to follow suit, Jan. 31). Witnesses reported that Smith appeared to be awake and in pain for several minutes after nitrogen was administered. They reported violent shaking and writhing and thrashing against the straps on the gurney. Any killing of another person is inhumane, but suffocation by replacing oxygen with nitrogen amounts to torture. According to a CNN report, the European Union described this new method of execution as a particularly cruel and unusual punishment and called for universal abolition of the death penalty. Although Oregon has not abolished the death penalty, in 2019 the Oregon Legislature passed SB 1013 to restrict use of capital punishment. Since then, no death penalty cases have been filed in the state. Gov. Kate Brown commuted all Oregon death row sentences in December 2022, and also had the state execution chamber dismantled. Capital punishment sends a message that murder is acceptable in some circumstances. Oregon Physicians for Social Responsibility opposes the taking of any human life when other forms of punishment, such as life imprisonment without parole, exist for the most egregious crimes. Andy Harris, Portland Harris is a member of the advisory board for Oregon Physicians for Social Responsibility To read more letters to the editor, go to oregonlive.com/opinion. The Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA) signed an agreement with Payment International Enterprise (PIE) for the regular maintenance and support of self-service eKiosks, enhancing the performance and efficiency of the iGAs eServices and channels and ensuring their seamless operation. The signing ceremony was attended by iGA Director of Government Systems Development, Elyas Yusuf Abdulghaffar and PIE Founder and Board Member, Fawaz Ghazal. Abdulghaffar said the partnership highlights the iGAs commitment to meeting the needs of citizens and residents by offering efficiency, quality, and speed, while ensuring sustainability. He acknowledged the support from the government, including Gen Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, the Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Ministerial Committee for Information and Communications Technology (MCICT). The agreement entails proactive maintenance of the eKiosks, part of a broader initiative to streamline government procedures and expedite service delivery. It covers continual updates and swift response to technical issues, ensuring the devices ongoing functionality and improved performance. The eKiosks offer three main services: ID Card services (updating of ID Card chip data and the ID Card reader), eKey services (advanced level registration, update eKey profile, resetting of passwords and mobile number), and registration for Government Notifications Service. Abdulghaffar added that there was significant usage of these self-service devices during 2023. Over 1,186 individuals registered for the Government Notifications Service, a national platform for receiving official alerts about government transactions via SMS and email, which has resulted in a reduction of paper-based communication. In addition, more than 40,000 eKey service transactions have been conducted through the eKiosk in 2023, over 30,000 ID card updates, and more than 54,000 ID card chip data reading transactions. This indicates a growing trend in eService adoption and an increase in awareness among the public of these secure and reliable government service offerings. The eKiosks offer numerous options for completing transactions in-person without the need for a prior appointment or assistance from service providers. They are notable for their precision and the secure, instant verification of users identities and fingerprints, along with technical efficiency improvements. They are installed across 10 locations in the Kingdom: branches of the Information & eGovernment Authority in Isa Town, Seef Mall's Muharraq branch, Mina Salman branch, the main branch of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA), Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Social Insurance Organization (SIO), Traffic Services Center at Wadi Al Sail Complex, and post offices in Bahrain Mall, Budaiya, and Hamad Town. Acting Managing Director at PIE, Shabbir Modi said the partnership with iGA is a testimony of our commitment towards delivering our strength on kiosks and its support services. We are proud of our association with iGA and look forward working to bring innovative services to consumers. TradeArabia News Service MOSCOW, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Four people were killed and another one injured after a shooting at a market in the city of Rustavi in the southeast of Georgia, the country's Ministry of Internal Affairs said on Friday. Authorities have detained and identified the shooter, whose uncle was among the dead. The injured person was the shooter's cousin and had been taken to the hospital, the ministry's statement said. The shooter worked in a market with his relatives and they had a conflict, a local TV channel reported. Among the dead is reportedly a taxi driver who was at the scene of the shooting. Amazon announced Friday it will begin buying clean electricity to help power its eastern Oregon data centers, marking its first big step toward renewable energy in the state. The company will also contribute $1.2 million to a nonprofit that aims to install solar panels on nonprofits rooftops in the community. This a very significant investment for us and I think is a real clear indicator of our commitment to Oregon and our commitment to looking for additional ways to bring more clean energy onto the grid that serves Oregon, said Shannon Kellogg, an Amazon vice president for public policy. Jersey Shore: Family Vacation is back with Season 7 and the group is heading back to Las Vegas! After that, theyll all head out to the East Coast to revisit old memories and try to put grudges behind them. Watch all the drama during the premiere of Episode 1 tonight, Thursday, February 8 at 8 p.m. on MTV with a live broadcast, or streaming on demand shortly after. WATCH Jersey Shore: Family Vacation tonight for FREE with Philo (free trial), or catch up on all episodes of the show streaming for free on demand right now. Who is on the new season of Jersey Shore: Family Vacation? A look at the cast: This season of Jersey Shore: Family Vacation takes place starting in Las Vegas and then back at the Jersey Shore again. Everybody is back. Nicole Snooki Polizzi, Vinny Guadagnino, Jenni JWoww Farley, Angelina Pivarnick, Paul DJ Pauly D Delvecchio, Ronnie Ortiz-Magro, Samantha Sammi Sweetheart Giancola and Mike The Situation Sorrentino. For the first time in 11 years, the entire original cast will be reunited. The cast member names and bios all appear under the Cast section of the Jersey Shore page on MTVs website. HOW TO WATCH What: Jersey Shore: Family Vacation When: Thursday, February 8 at 8 p.m. TV Channel: MTV Watch the show live streaming online: If you dont have cable, you can watch the episode on demand for free with Philo (free trial). If you have run out of free trials with this service, keep in mind that Philo is the cheapest TV streaming service on the market and costs just $25/month for the service and you can cancel anytime. You can find out more about which channel MTV is on by using the channel finders here: Verizon Fios, AT&T U-verse, Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum/Charter, Optimum/Altice, DIRECTV, and Dish. MOSCOW, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Germany does not resume the operation of the surviving pipe of Nord Stream 2, although Russia is ready to supply gas through it, said Russian President Vladimir Putin, cited by Russia's TASS news agency. "The matter is not only about Nord Stream 1, which was blown up. Nord Stream 2 was damaged, but one pipe is safe and sound, and gas can be supplied to Europe through it, but Germany does not open it," Putin said in an interview with U.S. media personality Tucker Carlson, published on Friday. "There is another route through Poland, the Yamal-Europe pipeline, it is also possible to carry a large flow," he said, adding that, however, Poland closed it. The Nord Stream pipelines, which transported natural gas from Russia to European markets via Germany, were severely damaged in September 2022 after blasts in the Baltic Sea. COSTA MESA, the United States, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- South Coast Plaza (SCP), the largest shopping center on the West Coast of the United States, kicked off its 12th Chinese Lunar New Year celebration with a spectacular Year of the Dragon display Thursday. SCP, located 60 km south of downtown Los Angeles, boasts sales approaching 2 billion U.S. dollars annually, the highest in the United States. Its 19-day Lunar New Year festivities are always the largest and most extensive of any retail center on the West Coast, drawing visitors from throughout California. As part of an annual tradition at the huge shopping mall, a dramatic Lunar New Year centerpiece has been on display since Thursday -- a large dragon, symbolizing power, nobility, honor, luck and success. The three-meter-high dragon appears to come to life, breathing water to yield a bountiful harvest, while eight holographic dragons fly above. Moreover, eight more dragons soar inside and outside the building, heralding an auspicious year. "South Coast Plaza continues to be at the forefront of Lunar New Year celebrations on the West Coast by providing the best in exclusive and culturally relevant experiences," Debra Gunn Downing, executive director of marketing at SCP told Xinhua. "From limited-edition products from our boutiques and specially created menus by world-class chefs at select restaurants to our spectacular centerpiece, South Coast Plaza is the must-visit destination for the Year of the Dragon," she said. A photography exhibition was presented by the Consulate General of China in Los Angeles and the China National Tourist Office in Los Angeles, titled "Ni Hao! China/Happy Chinese New Year," where a ribbon was cut on Thursday as well. Wang Taiyu, cultural counselor of the Consulate General of China in Los Angeles, said the photos showed how Chinese people all over the country celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year, and he hoped American people could get a glimpse of modern China when viewing the photos, or better yet, by visiting China. "Viewing the photos is interesting, but being there in person is even better!" he said. "So we invite our American friends to come to China, see what it's like, and get a taste of Chinese culture. Through people-to-people exchanges, we can get to know each other better, making our friendship stronger." Photo: (Photo : Elke Scholiers/Getty Images) Identical twins Nicole and Renee Baillie, who were initially anticipated to give birth with a 10-day gap, both greeted their babies within minutes of each other at Sunshine Coast University Hospital in Queensland. The simultaneous timing occurred shortly after the sisters marked their 33rd birthdays. Nicole and Renee's babies, Zavian Dacy and Ruby Toole, arrived only 22 minutes apart, with a mere 200g difference in weight. Twin Sisters Give Birth on Same Day Renee, planning to assist her sister in labor, found herself going into labor as well and gave birth before Nicole without initially telling her. The twins, who share the same engrossment and live just 15 minutes apart, now share not only the same birthday but also the distinctive experience of delivering their babies in close progression. Despite the unexpected turn of events, the sisters consider it a magical and meaningful occurrence, having documented their pregnancy journey on Instagram in the weeks leading up to the births. Renee's early arrival at the hospital to be with her sister was overshadowed by the surprise of her own daughter, Ruby, deciding to come into the world earlier than anticipated. Wanting to avoid causing any concern for Nicole, Renee didn't immediately inform her sister about Ruby's birth. The twins, who share the same friends, interests, and live a mere 15 minutes apart, now celebrate the same birthday for their newborns, considering the synchronized pregnancies a magical and destined occurrence. Nicole, in labor in the delivery room, coincidentally opened the same doors in the hospital foyer that her sister, Renee, used while heading to support her. The births occurred with Renee delivering at 5:45 am, followed closely by Nicole at 6:07 am. Reflecting on their shared maternity leave experience over the past few weeks, the sisters had been documenting their pregnancy journey on Instagram, sharing photos of their growing bumps. Read Also: Shortness of Breath During Pregnancy: Tips to Facilitate Respiring On February 8, 2024, Nicole and Renee eagerly awaited the arrival of their babies at the hospital. Nicole had already begun labor, with Renee intending to provide support during her sister's delivery. However, the unexpected occurred when Renee found herself in labor as well. Fate intervened, solidifying the unspoken connection between the twins. Nicole gave birth to Zavian Dacy, followed closely by Renee, who welcomed Ruby Toole into the world just 22 minutes later. The babies, with a mere 200g difference in weight, seemed to mirror the unique bond shared by the sisters. Twin Moms' Journey of Shared Pregnancy Living a short 15-minute distance from each other, Nicole and Renee had been companions throughout their pregnancy journeys, sharing the highs and lows of the experience. With common interests and friends, the sisters documented their parallel pregnancies on Instagram, captivating followers with their heartwarming narrative. Although the twins had expected their deliveries to be closely timed, the actual coincidence left them both in awe. Nicole expressed her amazement, stating, "It's just meant to be. It's so crazy." As Nicole and Renee commemorate the births of their children, their story stands as a testament to their strong bond. The sisters, already close, now share an even more intense connection through their children. While the world marvels at the extraordinary circumstances surrounding their births, for Nicole and Renee, it's simply another chapter in their intertwined lives. Identical Twins Embark on Motherhood Together As they commence on this new journey as mothers, Nicole and Renee feel appreciated for the unbelievable experience they've shared. With their babies by their side, the twins eagerly expect the numerous milestones and memories that lie ahead. Ultimately, the story of Nicole and Renee Baillie serves as a reminder of the solidity of sisterhood and the remarkable ways in which our lives can intersect. Navigating the joys and challenges of motherhood together, the twins will continue to document their distinctive journey, creating a lasting bequest for their children to adore. Related Article: Two Twin Sisters Give Birth To Their Babies Hours Apart at the Same Hospital in Texas Photo: (Photo : Mark Wilson/Getty Images) Minnesota twin sisters are facing criminal charges after an Amish buggy crash, along with the deception they first told investigators under the methamphetamine influence. One of the twin sisters faces more than a dozen charges after investigations pointed out that she tried to take all the blame after their fatal Amish buggy crash. According to court documents, the twin sisters, Sarah and Samantha Peterson, will face criminal vehicular homicide and criminal vehicular operation, and Sarah will also face aiding an offender. Sarah Peterson is also being held accountable for trying to conceal or take responsibility for her identical twin sister's criminal acts. Furthermore, the shadowy influence of methamphetamine has left residents in shock, and investigators are grappling with the complexities of a story that transcends the ordinary. The Amish Buggy Crash Under Meth Influence At the heart of the turmoil are 35-year-old identical twins, Sarah and Samantha Peterson, facing an onslaught of felony charges stemming from a tragic incident that transpired in September 2023. Sarah, confronted with 16 felonies, and Samantha, charged with an even more staggering 21 felonies, find themselves entangled in a legal quagmire. The charges, including criminal vehicular homicide, criminal vehicular operation, and driving under the influence, underscore a disturbing attempt to manipulate the course of an investigation marred by deception. As investigators, led by Fillmore County Sheriff John DeGeorge, delve into the complexities of the case, the identical features of the Peterson sisters emerge as a significant hurdle. Inconsistencies in their narratives and evidence have added layers of intricacy to an already challenging investigation. The process involves meticulous scrutiny, from poring over interview recordings to securing search warrants for the twins' phones, in an attempt to discern the truth behind the tragic Amish buggy crash. A sinister turn in the narrative comes to light with the discovery of text messages that lay bare the alleged influence of Methamphetamine. Samantha Peterson, purportedly under the drug's sway during the fatal crash, is accused of coercing her twin, Sarah, into willingly shouldering the blame for the devastating incident since she arrived first before the deputies. The text messages reveal a calculated effort to mislead authorities, with Sarah arriving at the crash scene before deputies, willingly taking on the blame for the devastating incident. Read Also: FDA Reveals Ecuadorian Cinnamon Processor as Likely Culprit Behind WanaBana Contamination Scandal Minnesota Twin Sister's Past Convictions and Weighty Charges Beyond the immediacy of the legal proceedings, the criminal histories of both sisters come under scrutiny. Samantha Peterson's convictions, including fourth- and third-degree DWI, compound the seriousness of the charges she faces-criminal vehicular homicide, each carrying a maximum sentence of 10 years. Meanwhile, Sarah Peterson, previously convicted of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance in 2022, is confronted with criminal vehicular homicide charges, each carrying a maximum sentence of five years. These revelations add layers of complexity to an already intricate legal tapestry. As the wheels of justice turn, the Peterson sisters, for now, remain free, charged by summons rather than facing immediate arrest. The community, once insulated from the turmoil that often unfolds in larger urban areas, now grapples with the shockwaves of a narrative that has captivated the region. Related Article: Critical Drug Shortages Spark National Crisis: Lawmakers, Experts Unveil Urgent Measures to Protect Patients You might think that, as a generic text editor, Notepad would sit out Microsofts AI roadmap. Nope. And Microsoft is also testing shortcuts in which Copilot can be used to trigger often-used actions, such as summarizing a page. Microsoft made a number of proposed changes that its testing out in its Canary and Dev Channels on Thursday. For one, both channels will operate under the same build numbers for a short time and if you trigger the winver command, the builds will show up as 24H2. This denotes that Windows 11, version 24H2 will be this years annual feature update, Microsoft said in a blog post. get windows 11 pro for cheap Windows 11 Pro Best Prices Today: Both the Microsoft Dev and Canary Channel represent Microsofts next-gen code base, where it tries out future releases. The new build, Build 26052, was accompanied by changes both to Windows as well as corresponding apps. Windows feature updates now include the sudo command, normally associated with Linux, where developers can try out elevated changes and bypass normal Windows safeguards. Meanwhile, both the Snipping Tool and Notepad received interesting changes. Both of the app changes are being made via the Dev and Canary channels, too. Notepad is the more interesting one, because of the fundamental changes being made to the text editor. Copilot and Notepad: two great things that go great together? Microsoft In this update to Notepad, we are adding a new feature that helps you quickly understand content in your text files, Microsoft explained. With Explain with Copilot, you can ask Copilot in Windows to help explain log files, code segments, or any selected content directly from within Notepad. Is that necessary? Microsoft thinks so. To launch it, Microsoft says that you can highlight the text, right-click Explain with Copilot from the menu or use the new Ctrl + E keyboard shortcut. Snipping Tool is being improved with more functionality. Microsoft Snipping Tool, meanwhile, is becoming more like Paint: instead of loading the snip into Paint and then adding arrows, rectangles, or other shapes, you can now add them from the Snipping Tool app itself. Changes to Windows: Copilot shortcuts, sudo Naturally, Microsoft is doubling down on the Copilot within Windows. One of the changes being made is that when you highlight text, the Copilot icon (now moved to the lower right-hand corner) will either highlight or animate as a tip that you can use it to explain the text, highlight the web page you pulled it from, or other actions. You should see a small list of options after you highlight the text and then mouse over the Copilot icon. The proposed new shortcuts for Copilot. Microsoft Microsoft is also testing out automatically opening Copilot on widescreen displays, although this appears to be controllable via the Windows Settings (Personalization) page. Were trying this experience out on devices that have minimum diagonal screen size of 27 and pixel width of 1920 pixels and limited to primary display screens in multi-monitor scenarios, Microsoft said. The other major change that Build 26052 brings with it is the sudo command, short for superuser do. This is typically reserved for Linux, but Microsoft will be adding it to Windows. So far, it appears to be reserved for the Windows Terminal, and its not clear whether or not sudo will be able to be accessed by ordinary Windows apps as a way to override the system. Microsoft will be adding the sudo option to the For developers section of the Windows Settings, giving developers the option to run apps with higher security privileges in a new window, or with input blocked, or inline the most familiar to Linux users. Microsoft explains this more in a developer note, along with warnings about what the security risks could be. Microsoft is also testing out some other interesting features: Hearing aid enhancements: Microsoft began supporting Bluetooth Low Energy hearing aids last October. Now, Microsoft is adding options to the Settings > Bluetooth & Devices to control them, such as presets and controlling ambient sounds, even on a per-device basis. Battery life can also be monitored. Theyll require both the PC and the hearing aid to support Bluetooth LE Audio, though. Microsoft Absa Group has announced its physical expansion into the Peoples Republic of China with the opening of a new non-banking subsidiary in Beijing. The non-banking subsidiary is now open, with the official launch event in Beijing, scheduled for the 8 May 2024. At a ceremony in Johannesburg, South Africa today, attended by Enoch Godongwana, the Minister of Finance of South Africa and Chen Xiaodong, the Chinese Ambassador to South Africa Absa Group showcased the continued growth of its international footprint alongside its commitment to fostering new opportunities between Africa and China. The new office will enable Absa Group to offer local support to Chinese clients and stakeholders to conclude transactions across the African continent, helping to support clients needs, goals, and ambitions. This is part of a wider commitment from Absa to expand its operations with international representative offices in strategic markets and offer deep expertise in African markets to its overseas clients. Were thrilled to add our office in China to our global footprint, commented Arrie Rautenbach, Group CEO of Absa Group. Todays announcement reinforces our ambition to grow our international strategy particularly as China is such a strategically important market for Africa. Our expansion into this dynamic market represents an exciting opportunity to unlock new avenues of growth and prosperity for Africa and China. The China-Africa investment relationship has flourished over the past few decades, with China emerging as the continents largest bilateral trade partner. This has been fuelled by Chinese investment in Africas vast natural resources and infrastructure projects, creating huge commercial opportunities for both regions. Our presence in China will help to firmly establish Absas capability to provide general advisory services to clients based in China for concluding transactions across the African continent, offering us new opportunities with our clients in the region, says Charles Russon, CEO of Absa Corporate & Investment Bank. Establishing our base there will not only give us a physical presence in the region but also help us to meet the needs of our clients operating in this rapidly growing market. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Jospong Group of Companies has presented separate amounts totalling almost GHc500,000 to three renal facilities in Accra. The money is to support the treatment of kidney patients of Korle Bu Renal Unit, the University of Ghana Dialysis Centre and the Renal Unit of the Bank Hospital who for some reason are unable to afford dialysis treatments. Making the presentations at the respective hospitals, the Chief Corporate Communication Officer-Jospong Group Madam Sophia Kudjordji, said the gesture aligns with the company's mission of improving the lives of people. "We believe that it's not just about creating jobs but also ensuring that people are healthy to contribute their quota to the development of the nation," she emphasized. She mentioned that the company is also planning on replicating the gesture at some of the regional hospitals to support the treatment of dialysis in the regions. Madam Kudjodji prayed the government consider placing dialysis treatment on the national insurance scheme to reduce the cost burden on patients. The donation was in fulfilment of the company's promise made during its 2023 Thanksgiving service to support dialysis patients with an amount of GHc 500,000. Receiving the cheque on behalf of the Korle Bu Renal Unit, the CEO of Korle Bu Teaching Hospitals, Dr. Opoku Ware Ampomah, urged parliament to expedite action on approving the proposed fees for dialysis treatment. The CEO noted that the hospital is still under recovering as it continues to charge the old fees of GHc365 instead of GHc780. "We are currently recovering up to the tune of GHc400 per dialysis and we need to find it before it comes back to haunt us," Dr. Ampomah said. Dr Ampomah noted that as they wait for the approval of the new fees, the facility is also counting on the benevolence of individuals and corporate Ghana to bear some of the cost. On her part, the Director of Operations at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC), Mrs Lucy Brimpong Ofori-Ayeh applauded the Jospong Group for coming to the aid of dialysis patients. She noted that there are a lot of patients who because of their "economic conditions are unable to pay for their treatments, so this is welcome and it will greatly reduce mortality." The Deputy Director of Nursing Services (DDNS), Rita Momo Sika-Nartey, explained the gravity of the challenge noted due to the financial challenges, most patients only undergo a session or two instead of the recommended number of three. "If a patient is undergoing just one session of dialysis then they shouldn't do it at all, because they're always sick and can't even afford their drugs" she lamented. The Director -of Nursing & Midwifery Services-UGMC, Judith Naa Klokor Asiamah, noted that the hospital needs about 16 dialysis machines to run optimally. The centre currently has only four dialysis machines. She therefore appealed to the general public to support the centre with dialysis machines so that they can assist the ever-increasing number of patients. It is estimated that between 13% to 17% of Ghanas population have some form of renal function impairment. This equates to between 4 million and 5.2 million citizens. Researchers suggest that, from this segment of the population, between 15,000 and 19,500 should be on dialysis. The data available suggests that approximately 2,000 people are currently on dialysis. Implying that between 13,000 and 17,500 people are without treatment. These people will often seek alternative forms of treatment and access renal care only when the situation becomes acute. This has an impact on their quality of life and life expectancy. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Huang Ping, the Chinese consul general in New York (M) and Christina Chiu (R), executive vice president, chief operating officer and chief financial officer for the Empire State Realty Trust, attend the lighting ceremony of the Empire State Building in celebration of the Chinese Lunar New Year in New York, the United States, Feb. 8, 2024. The Empire State Building commenced its Lunar New Year celebrations Thursday with a ceremonial lighting and the unveiling of its Fifth Avenue Window Exhibition. (Photo by Winston Zhou/Xinhua) NEW YORK, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- The Empire State Building commenced its Lunar New Year celebrations Thursday with a ceremonial lighting and the unveiling of its Fifth Avenue Window Exhibition. "It's an annual tradition here at the Empire State Building to celebrate the Lunar New Year in the heart of New York City. Our iconic Fifth Avenue lobby windows will feature a festive art installation to honor this year's animal, the dragon," Christina Chiu, executive vice president, chief operating officer and chief financial officer for the Empire State Realty Trust said at the lighting ceremony Thursday morning. "Tonight, the Empire State Building will shine red to honor the Year of the Dragon and to welcome evolution, improvement and abundance in the year ahead," said Chiu. Huang Ping, the Chinese consul general in New York, appreciated the Empire State Building's red lights to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year for the 24th consecutive year. "I saw the red like a torch in the sky. It shows the willingness of the American people, the openness and the inclusiveness of the American people to embrace that diversity of culture. It strengthened the bonds and the friendship between China and the United States. That's exactly what we want at this special time, when we try to bring the most important relationship in the world back on track," said Huang. According to the Chinese zodiac and tradition, the Year of the Dragon symbolizes courage, auspiciousness and good luck. The Observation Wheel at the American Dream Mall in New Jersey was illuminated in red on Wednesday to commemorate the Year of the Dragon. The Manhasset Youth Dragon Dance Troupe performed at the annual Lunar New Year Lighting Ceremony that day. Meanwhile, the One World Trade Center in New York City is scheduled to be lit in red and gold in the late afternoons and early evenings from Friday to Sunday in celebration of the Chinese Lunar New Year. This photo taken on Feb. 8, 2024 shows the Empire State Building lit up in red for the Chinese Lunar New Year in New York, the United States. The Empire State Building commenced its Lunar New Year celebrations Thursday with a ceremonial lighting and the unveiling of its Fifth Avenue Window Exhibition. (Photo by Winston Zhou/Xinhua) This photo taken on Feb. 8, 2024 shows the Empire State Building lit up in red for the Chinese Lunar New Year in New York, the United States. The Empire State Building commenced its Lunar New Year celebrations Thursday with a ceremonial lighting and the unveiling of its Fifth Avenue Window Exhibition. (Photo by Winston Zhou/Xinhua) Mr. Franklin Cudjoe, the founding President of IMANI Africa, believes it was "unnerving" that the 2024 New Patriotic Party Flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, sought to sing the praise of the Bank of Ghana. To him, considering how the Central Bank has superintendented over "the biggest fiscal hole in the Ghana's history", it would have sat well with the public if the Vice President had "promised exacting some form of accountability." In a Facebook post hours after the NPP flagbearer had shared his vision with Ghanaians, Mr. Cudjoe explained that leadership requires that the leader carries his people along in all decisions and crucially accepts responsibility when things go wrong sometimes. And thus called on Dr. Bawumia to accept responsibility when things go wrong. Im just unsure about him owning up to the wrongs- which is why Im asking that he accepts the liabilities that will come along. I wish him well. He said As far as yesterdays big push for the presidency by Dr. Bawumia went, his resolve to build an inclusive society based on a value system that rewards hardwork, incorruptible behaviour, enhance business flourishing with simple taxes such as the flat tax, deepen public-private sector partnership to construct and manage critical infrastructure, ensure governments efficiency with the very bold promise of 50 ministers and deputies, fight corruption through tighter procurement process, ensuring value for money in project management, adding value to our mineral resources are all significant game-changers. He added that, I had reservations about how he spent the first hour of his major outing as flagbearer to recount many of his achievements with the government, because we had heard them so many times. However, I thought even if he had to repeat the positives, he needed to be balanced, because quite frankly, charting a different path as he advertised his vision was, should include acknowledging some of the grave short comings such as innumerable instances of fiscal misbehaviour that made Ghana top all the inglorious macroeconomic leagues and sped up our journey to economic meltdown with its attendant negative life-changing impact through the debt exchange programeven if one were to account for the impact of Russian-UKRAINE war and covid-19. Praising the Bank of Ghana was particularly unnerving given the grave sins it committed in the creation of the biggest fiscal hole ever in Ghanas history. He could have promised exacting some form of accountability with some troubling money wasting projects like the cathedral and suspicious multi-million dollar telecom, oil, gold revenue monitoring and assurance systems. Not long ago, Liberians lamented, that President Weah who promised to keep them in his pre-election photograph had taken them out of the picture after winning power. President Weah disagreed; he said the pre-election photograph was intact, and that it is Liberians who had taken themselves out of the photograph. He lost the bid to be re-elected. Leadership requires that you carry your people along in all decisions and crucially accepting responsibility when things go wrong sometimes because you or your colleague ministers may have overplayed your hands. I have no doubt Dr Bawumia intends to carry us along with all his ideas or assets if he wins the presidency, lm just unsure about he owning up to the wrongs- which is why lm asking that he accepts the liabilities that will come along. I wish him well. Source: Kobina Darlington/peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Despite the Ministry of Finances directive to suspend the contentious 15 percent Value Added Tax (VAT) on electricity, the Greater Accra Regional branch of Organised Labour of the Trades Union Congress (TUC) remains unwavering in its decision to proceed with its planned protest. On February 7, 2024, the Ministry of Finance issued instructions to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCO) to halt the implementation of the new tax policy until discussions with stakeholders, including Organised Labour, have taken place. However, the labour unions have expressed their dissatisfaction with this directive, insisting on a complete repeal of the tax. Patrick Binyemi, a representative from the regional metro council of labour, outlined their plans for a nationwide demonstration on February 13 at a press conference in Accra. The protest is slated to encompass various activities, with one notable action being the suspension of commercial vehicle operations on the day of the demonstration. We will embark on a never-happened demonstration. This is scheduled for next week Tuesday, the 13th of February 2024. By this, we are calling on all organised labour members all over the Greater Accra region to be ready and prepared for this demonstration. On Tuesday at 6:30 am we are all gathering at the Obra Spot, Circle where we will proceed through the Kojo Thompson road to the Farisco traffic light. We will take a left to the TUC traffic light then a right to the polo grounds along the Professor John Evans Atta Mills highway, that is the high street and we will end at Independence Square or the Black Stars Square. Please let us take note, he stated. Source: citinewsroom.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Political Science lecturer and the President of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) at the University of Ghana Chapter, Prof. Ransford Gyampoh has raised concerns regarding Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia's vision statement address on Wednesday, February 7 at the University of Professional Studies, Accra. Prof. Ransford Gyampo asserted that the government must address these concerns if it intends for the New Patriotic Party, led by Dr. Bawumia, to retain power. In his Vision Statement, Dr. Bawumia pledged to abolish the controversial E-Levy if his government is elected into office. During his address on Wednesday evening, the presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), emphasized the importance of moving Ghanas economy into a cashless economy, not only to stimulate economic growth but also to combat corruption. He emphasized the need to embrace the use of electronic payment channels to achieve this objective. The tax was implemented by the government as part of its strategy to broaden the tax base and generate revenue for development. However, Veep Bawumia said, I would like to bring Ghana close to a cashless economy in the shortest possible time. So far the Bank of Ghana has made a lot of progress in this direction by putting in place a lot of the systems and infrastructure required. These include mobile money interoperability, merchant interoperability, Universal QRCode payment system, Gh-Link, debit cards, Ezwich, and GhanaPay." "We have put in place the necessary infrastructure for Ghana to go cashless. Recently the Bank of Ghana has completed a pilot of a digital version of the Ghana cedi note in Sefwi Wiawso. This is known as central bank digital currency (CBDC) or e-cedi. The e-cedi is designed to work online and offline and will be launched by the Bank of Ghana in due course." "In my humble opinion, the e-cedi, with appropriate privacy protections, will be the ultimate weapon in our fight against corruption because it will provide transparency, reduce the risk of fraud, robbery, tax avoidance, and money laundering since it will be easy to track the movement of money and identify suspicious activity. The e-cedi will quicken the pace of Ghanas move towards a cashless or near cashless society. However, Prof. Gyampo questioned why Dr. Bawumia is not pressuring the government to implement these initiatives immediately rather than waiting until assuming power. In a Facebook post on Thursday, February 8, Prof. Gyampo expressed his concerns, indicating the importance of swift action in adopting measures to transition Ghana into a cashless society. He said, "Parts of the presentation was an indictment of the government of which he is part, in a manner that raises serious questions and vindicates those of us who have been critics of the government. "Promising to have not more than 50 Ministers when you are part of a government of over 100 Ministers; and promising to abolish some taxes like the Emissions tax, Gaming Tax, E-Levy, VAT on electricity consumption, etc makes some of us feel vindicated for criticising and calling for downsizing of government and the abolition of such nuisance taxes." Source: Kobina Darlington/peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Vice President and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia today visited the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi where the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, is holding a durbar of Chiefs to commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the Sagrenti War between the Asantes and the British Colonial Army. The commemorative durbar dubbed "Kuntunkuni" and is to commemorate the ravages of the war, had the Asantehene and traditional rulers clad in black attire to reflect the occasion. Fresh from his impressive delivery of his policies for Ghana in Accra last night, Dr. Bawumia received tumultuous cheers as he arrived at the Manhyia Palace. Also clad in all-black, Dr. Bawumia and his delegation including his wife Samira were mobbed by enthusiastic admirers who followed him on a procession, chanting his name and giving him adulations. The durbar was attended by traditional rulers in the Ashanti Kingdom, former President J.A Kufuor, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin, diplomats, the British High Commissioner and a representative of the British Museum who presented to Asanteman artefacts which the British took away from the Ashanti Kingdom during the Sagrenti War 150 years ago. Also part of Dr. Bawumia's delegation to the palace were the Chief of Staff, Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, Minister for Religious and Chieftaincy, Affarus Stephen Asamoah Boateng, Minister for Energy Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh and a host of Parliamentarians. Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The king of Ghana's traditional Asante kingdom - known as the Asantehene - has received seven royal artefacts that were looted from the kingdom nearly 150 years ago. The items were repatriated from the Fowler Museum, based at the University of California in the US, and handed over to King Otumfuo Osei Tutu II during a ceremony on Thursday. They include a gold necklace, an ornamental chair, two gold stool ornaments and two bracelets. An elephant tail whisk, which is "a ceremonial piece that is held by someone of incredibly high status" was also returned, Erica P Jones, the senior curator of African arts at Fowler Museum told Art Magazine. The items have been hosted at Fowler Museum since 1965, but were looted by British forces from the Asantehene's Manhyia Palace in the city of Kumasi, southern Ghana, in 1874. The return of the items comes less than two weeks after the UK's British Museum and Victoria and Albert Museum loaned back 32 items that had been looted from the kingdom, mostly in the 19th Century. Source: BBC Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Minority Leader in Parliament, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has strongly criticized Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia for his recent remarks made on Wednesday, February 7, regarding the authority of the Economic Management Team (EMT), which Dr Bawumia chaired. Dr Ato Forson, leading the NDC MPs in Parliament, vehemently rejected Dr Bawumia's claims, branding them as false and unacceptable to the Ghanaian populace. He contended that Dr. Bawumia's remarks amounted to mere excuses for the shortcomings of the EMT, which have significantly burdened the Ghanaian people. In a social media post, the former Deputy Finance Minister underscored the vigilance of Ghanaians, asserting that they would not be swayed by Dr. Bawumia's rhetoric. Dr. Ato Forson urged the Vice President to take accountability for the failed policies under his leadership and to implement any improved strategies he may have, rather than aspiring for the presidency. "How come Dr. Bawumia is now downplaying the role of the Economic Management Team and his chairmanship at a time when the full impact of the governments bad economic policies is adversely impacting the people of Ghana and Ghanaians are facing excruciating hardships? Why is Dr Bawumia running away from his role and making it look as though he has something new to offer the people of Ghana?" "For the record, Dr. Bawumia superintends the Economic Management Team, where all key decisions regarding the national economy are taken." "These decisions are then taken to Cabinet, where Dr Bawumia justifies them with the Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta for approval," he said. Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has clarified that the Economic Management Team (EMT), over which he presided, lacked decision-making authority. Speaking on his aspirations for the nation during an address at the University of Professional Studies, Accra, on Wednesday, February 7, Dr. Bawumia stressed his intent to use his decision-making powers when elected as President. "I was, thankfully, appointed as Chairman of the Economic Management Team (EMT). As a sub-committee to the Cabinet, we do not have any decision-making powers, but I am very proud of the quality of advice we have been providing over the years to the Cabinet," he stressed. Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/peacefmonline.com/ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Chief Executive Officer of the State Transport Corporation (STC), Nana Akomea says Ghanaians will never regret retaining the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in power with Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as president. He is very optimistic about his party's flagbearer ideologies in his Bold Solution address to reshape Ghana. Nana Akomea who was speaking on NEAT FM's morning show, Ghana Montie said it would be inappropriate to compare Dr Mahamudu Bawumia to Mahama who has no concrete policy in his attempt to be president again. Bawumia is new and brings new ideas, Mahama is a former president and has nothing to offer, He said. Listen to the interview below Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/peacefmonline.com/ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video So far this year, Rite Aid has announced the closings of 72 stores including seven in Pennsylvania. The company announced the closings in five different bankruptcy filings so far in 2024. Rite Aid, which was based in East Pennsboro Township near Camp Hill for decades and is now based in Philadelphia, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in October to begin restructuring to significantly reduce its debt. These are the seven stores in Pennsylvania that the company has announced so far this year that will close. 501 S. 29th St., Suite A, Paxtang, Dauphin County (The store will close on March 17). 200 N. Antrim Way, Greencastle, Franklin County 60 S. Water St., Sharon, Mercer County 1600 Ninth Ave., Suite 35, Altoona, Blair County 6822 Hamilton Blvd., Lower Macungie Township, Lehigh County, near Allentown 472 N. Main St. in Doylestown, Bucks County 200 Kimberton Road, Phoenixville, Chester County Rite Aid provided the following statement to PennLive after a reporter inquired about the Paxtang store closing. Rite Aid regularly assesses its retail footprint to ensure we are operating efficiently while meeting the needs of our customers, communities, associates and overall business. In connection with the court-supervised process, we notified the Court of certain underperforming stores we are closing to further reduce rent expense and strengthen overall financial performance. At this time, we have not made or confirmed any decisions on additional specific store closures as part of our financial restructuring process. Overall, the company has announced 380 store closings in bankruptcy filings including 43 in Pennsylvania. A 34-year-old Lebanon man was arrested earlier this week and charged with rape and assault involving three girls a number of years ago. Jason Shirk was charged with one count of rape of a child, one count of rape threat of forcible compulsion, one count of incident assault of a person less than 16 years old, two counts of aggravated indecent assault less than 13 years old, and three counts of indecent assault of a person less than 13 years old. The three victims who were teenagers at the time contacted police between March and May of 2022 to report instances of sexual abuse from their childhood, according to court documents. Do you hate your office job? Youre not alone. Actor Dakota Johnson made an appearance on a recent episode of Late Night with Seth Meyers, promoting her upcoming superhero film Madame Web. And during the interview, she shared that her guest appearance on the final episode of the beloved sitcom The Office wasnt her favorite gig. I was in the series finale of The Office, she said. That was honestly the worst time of my life. But to be clear, it wasnt because she disliked the show - in fact, quite the opposite. I love that show so much, she said, explaining how she was invited to make what she thought would be a brief cameo, and she leaped at the chance. But what she expected to be perhaps a half-day of shooting ended up being a whole lot more. I was there for two weeks, she said. And Im barely in the [expletive] show. Johnson said that despite her brief speaking role, she was in the background of all of these scenes, faxing things. And as Meyers pointed out, the finale was perhaps not the best time to meet and work with the shows cast. They were sad, she agreed. There were weird dynamics that had been going on for the last 10 years. No one wanted to talk to me. Nobody gave a [expletive]. Its clear in the context of the interview that Johnson was being a tad hyperbolic for comedic effect, but it just goes to show you: even if you end up with the job of your dreams, sometimes its a pain heading into the office every day. You can watch part of the interview here on Youtube. People take photos with a light installation during a lantern show in Markham, Ontario, Canada, on Feb. 8, 2024. This event, featuring over 250 colorful silk lanterns, is held here from Feb. 8 to 25 to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year, which falls on Saturday. (Photo by Zou Zheng/Xinhua) People look at light installations during a lantern show in Markham, Ontario, Canada, on Feb. 8, 2024. This event, featuring over 250 colorful silk lanterns, is held here from Feb. 8 to 25 to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year, which falls on Saturday. (Photo by Zou Zheng/Xinhua) Former President Donald J. Trump may not have boarded his jet for Harrisburg, but you could say his appearance at the NRAs Great American Outdoor Show Friday evening is already smoking. Midstate political activist Gene Stilp saw to that during the noon hour, staging one of his semi-regular Trump flag burnings on a remote corner of the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex property. By Sydney Carruth, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (TNS) A Pittsburgh program that provides free spay and neuter services for city pet owners is coming to a halt, the Bureau of Animal Care and Control announced Tuesday. The taxpayer-funded program is aimed at keeping the citys population of stray cats and dogs at bay by offering free spay and neuter procedures to pet owners who have a Pittsburgh address. But the program is on hiatus until further notice after a recent evaluation found inappropriate and disingenuous uses for the service, according to a spokesperson for the Department of Public Safety. While we understand the pause will cause short-term inconvenience for people and their pets, we fully support the citys goal of restructuring the program to make it as effective as possible in reducing the serious problem of overpopulation of animals, said Dr. Amanda Zetwo, medical director at Animal Friends, a shelter that works with the city to facilitate the program. Since the program launched in 2015, vet staff at Animal Friends have performed thousands of spay and neuter surgeries at their Animal Wellness Clinic, according to Cindy Cole, a spokesperson for the shelter. The city cited cases of non-Pittsburgh residents borrowing the city addresses of friends and family to have their pets spayed or neutered for free as cause for concern about the programs efficiency. Advocates at small animal rescues in Pittsburgh are concerned the program pause could mean less capacity to provide foster homes for cats in need and a boom in stray cat populations ahead of the spring kitten season. Jody Mader, a director at Catcalls Rescue, said the program pause is a major concern for small rescues in the area, noting that most foster homes provide full financial support for the cats they care for. If cats cannot get fixed this spring, we are going to see a repeat of what happened during COVID when all of the vets shut down their services and canceled spay and neuter appointments, Mader said. After that, the number of homeless cats skyrocketed. The hiatus is intended to re-evaluate the program amid rising costs and find ways to prevent similar issues in the future, the city said. We are continuing to work collaboratively to ensure the future stability and sustainability of the program in order for the residents and animals who are most in need to have access to the quality care that is provided, Zetwo said. During the pause, staff at the Bureau of Animal Care and Control will work to develop new applicant criteria that are tailored to Pittsburgh pet owners most in need. They will also focus on ways to keep the feral cat population under control, according to the city. More: Will bigger be better for Harrisburg areas main animal shelter? Well soon find out Shelter looking for owner of dog found in foothold traps in central Pa. Animal shelter holds special Neuter Your Ex promotion for Valentines Day Pennsylvanians know our state is influential. Some of us know were the center of the universe. People around the nation and the world care about what we say and do. When we declare weve solved a problem, even without proof, some will seek to imitate our alleged success. Thats why the Prison Policy Initiative says our declaring a solution to the problem of drugs in prisons is so disturbing. Its not true. Editorial Board meeting -- prison letter scans PennLive's Editorial Board meeting on scanning letters sent to prisoners. Posted by Joyce M. Davis on Thursday, February 8, 2024 The Prison Policy Initiative, a respected non-partisan, non-profit national organization, is calling out the state Department of Corrections for touting a program to address the problem of drugs in state prisons by stopping direct mail deliveries to prisoners. DOC officials said drugs were reaching inmates through the letters they receive, some of it -- they claim -- miraculously infused into the very paper families sent to their loved ones in prison. So, in 2018, Pennsylvania moved to stop letting prisoners receive the actual mail their families sent. Instead, they began sending it to Florida to be scanned. This is an inmate housing unit at the state prison in Camp Hill. The State Correctional Institution at Camp Hill, Friday, January 13, 2017. Dan Gleiter | dgleiter@pennlive.com Now, instead of getting a hand-written letter sent directly from his mother, a young man gets a photocopy of what she sent. Instead of getting a perfumed card from his wife a few days after she mailed it, a man facing years behind bars gets a blurry picture weeks later. Many poor families have to depend on snail mail because they simply cant afford what prisons charge for emails and texts. According to the Prison Policy Initiatives research, all of this has cost Pennsylvania taxpayers more than $4 million a year. The company raking in the dough is not even in Pennsylvania. Were sending our prisoners mail to Smart Communications in Seminole, Fla. The Prison Policy Initiative points out one important fact: drugs still are getting into state prisons. So even though $4 million of tax dollars is heading to Smart Communications to scan letters from distraught wives, mothers, and children, it hasnt solved the drug problem. Families of those incarcerated in Pennsylvania's state prison system say the Corrections Department is keeping them in the dark about their loved ones' coronavirus diagnoses and, in some cases, deaths. Meanwhile, hundreds of people in Pennsylvania prisons are unable to have the simple respite of a letter sent from home, grease stains and all. The Prison Policy Institute says its no small matter to people who desperately need to maintain connections to their families to keep them both healthy and sane. Some of our readers might say, who cares. If theyre in prison, they deserve to pay for their crimes. Point well taken. Except, most of the people behind bars will get out one day. Most of the people in prisons today will be back in our communities after a few years of pain, stress, and trauma. What kind of person will they be when they get? What kind of person do we want returning to our workplaces, schools, and neighborhoods? The Prison Policy Initiative says studies show the more connections prisoners maintain with their friends and family in prison, the better their chances of not returning when theyre out. Pennsylvania DOC officials have promoted letter scans to the nation as the solution to drugs in prison, the organization says, without the solid data to back it up. And since Pennsylvanians are so respected around the nation, many states followed our lead, although were told at less cost than the $4 million we pay to the Florida company. The Prison Policy Initiative has raised serious questions about our policy of scanning prisoners mail. It has raised valid warnings about the serious repercussions to the health and mental stability of people in state care. And they have well noted the influence we have had on policies impacting prisons across the nation. Inmates in state prisons are not allowed to receive direct mail due to concerns over illicit drugs in the prison. The Prison Policy Initiative says its years of investigations have not found any proof that scanning letters reduced the amount of drugs entering prisons. In some cases, they argue, just the opposite happened. We call on state officials to rethink the policy of paying $4 million a year to a Florida company to scan letters that families send to their loved ones in Pennsylvania prisons. At the very least, we call on the Department of Corrections to provide some proof that scanning the personal letters of prisoners is solving the drug problem within prison walls. Without such proof, the Prison Policy Institute is right to warn Pennsylvanians their tax dollars are being wasted. And Pennsylvania officials are abusing their influence by spreading misery at home and misinformation throughout the nation. ## Description Friday, February 9 ~ 5:00 - 8:00pm and Saturday, February 10 ~ 2:00 - 5:00pm. Join us for our catering Job Fair. Come to the Inn at 5720 Route 25A, Wading River, NY 11792 either day, fill out an application and meet with staff to learn about the opportunities in all catering positions for Weddings and Special Events - Servers, bartenders, cocktail attendants, captains, bridal attendants and hostesses. Weekend availability is a must, some experience is required, competitive pay, advancement and friendly work environment. CLICK HERE to APPLY ONLINE Call 631-929-3500 for more information East Wind Long Island is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In this article, we will take a look at 16 Easiest Countries to Immigrate to Without a Degree. You can skip our detailed analysis of how to immigrate without a degree as well as immigrant integration and go directly to the 5 Easiest Countries to Immigrate to Without a Degree. The globalization of the world has made immigration inevitable. Economic adversity and geopolitical disruption have further spurred this movement. Additionally, many countries, especially in Europe, are experiencing expanding economies, resulting in labor shortages. This gap has been filled by low-paying labor migration from foreign countries. In comparison to 2021, the 2022 figure for permanent-type immigration to OECD countries showed a 26% increase. Family migration accounted for 40% of permanent migration, while managed labor and free mobility each registered a 21% share. With a broader pool of opportunities, people are eager to seize them and improve their quality of life, experiencing exciting adventures. Therefore, it is no wonder that many countries are even welcoming immigrants who are not highly qualified. How to immigrate without a degree? For people without a high education degree, the dream of moving abroad for a chance at a better standard of living is not lost. There are multiple ways in which they can achieve immigration. For one, the avenue of student visas is always a possibility for permanent settlement. Admission to a university or college can be the first step in a long-term immigration plan. Furthermore, many countries, particularly in Europe and the Caribbean Islands, encourage citizenship through investment. For people with money and no degree, this also seems like a viable and quick option. Another way is to simply look for a job that does not require a degree. Thus, while it might be difficult to immigrate to some countries, there will always be nations where it would be easier to migrate to without a degree. Successful examples like Elon Musk, the founder of Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA), SpaceX, OpenAI, and more, serve as a ray of hope for many people. While Musk was born in South Africa, he moved to the US in 1995 to pursue his Bachelors degree. Currently serving as the CEO of Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA), Musk provides inspiration for many to move for an improved chance of academic and professional growth. Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA) has not only emerged as a leading multinational automotive and clean energy company but continues to set and surpass new standards of growth. A recent announcement by the CEO regarding a forthcoming next-generation low-cost vehicle is testimony to their consistent growth. Story continues Immigrant Integration While there is no doubt that the current immigration scenario is shifting its focus to a more qualified inflow, there are still some countries where immigration for individuals without a degree is also possible. Additionally, immigrant integration has gained significant importance over the years, and many countries, including Austria, Germany, Korea, Spain, and Switzerland, actively ensure language proficiency, especially in the vocational category. Renowned companies, such as Graham Holdings Company (NYSE: GHC), offer language courses to assist individuals without a degree. Furthermore, assistance to students is widely available through prominent education consultancies like New Oriental Education & Technology Group Inc. (NYSE: EDU). Graham Holdings Company (NYSE:GHC) offers English-language training and proficiency exam preparation, among other services. This can be extremely beneficial for underqualified prospective immigrants, as a strong grasp of the language can fortify a low level of education. This, in turn, facilitates their integration into the new society and provides a better probability of employment. Kaplan, a subsidiary of Graham Holdings Company (NYSE: GHC), is a leading educational platform. The company has been ranked among the best education stocks to buy in 2023 and holds promising future prospects. New Oriental Education & Technology Group Inc. (NYSE:EDU) is a notable name in the service industry, offering consultancy to students aspiring for admission to universities abroad. The company has also made it onto the list of the best education stocks to buy in 2023. Additionally, here are some comments from the company's earnings call for the second quarter of 2024: The adults and university students business recorded a revenue increase of 43% in dollar terms or 46% increase in RMB terms year-over-year for this quarter. As mentioned in the past quarters, we have launched multipronged new initiatives, which mostly revolve around facilitating students around development. They have continued to prosper with consistent growth, delivering meaningful profits to the company. Firstly, the non-academic tutoring courses, which we have offered in around 60 existing cities, focus on cultivating students innovative ability and comprehensive quality. The markets we have tapped into have recorded elevated penetration, especially in higher-tier cities with a total of approximately 786,000 students enrollment recorded in this quarter. 16 Easiest Countries to Immigrate to Without a Degree 16 Easiest Countries to Immigrate to Without a Degree Methodology We ranked the easiest countries to immigrate to without a degree based on the percentage of foreign-born individuals with a low level of education settling in these countries in the last five years, as defined in the OECD Indicators of Immigrants Integration, 2023. Additionally, we considered the percentage of employment for foreign-born individuals with a low education level, as well as the percentage of international migrant stock (% of population), sourced from Migration Data Portal, 2020. These three metrics were averaged, and the countries were then ranked in descending order based on the high average. By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that uses a consensus approach to identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The website tracks the movement of corporate insiders and hedge funds. Our top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 stock index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years ( see the details here ). So, if you are looking for the best stock picks to buy, you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders. Lets now move on and take a look at our 16 Easiest Countries to Immigrate to Without a Degree. 16 Easiest Countries to Immigrate to Without a Degree 16. United States Foreign born with low-level of education: 19% Employment rate of foreign born with low-level of education: 63% International migrant stock (% of population): 15% Insider Monkey average percentage: 32 The United States is a land of opportunity for many people, drawing herds of immigrants over the years. Its robust economy and diverse culture make it welcoming to individuals intending to settle permanently. Those without a degree can aspire to move to this country to enhance their standard of living, given the numerous options available for lucrative employment. The employment rate of foreign-born individuals with a low education level in the country indicates promising prospects for those who haven't attained a higher education level. 15. United Kingdom Foreign born with low-level of education: 17% Employment rate of foreign born with low-level of education: 68% International migrant stock (% of population): 14% Insider Monkey average percentage: 33 Recent years have witnessed a surge towards European countries, and the United Kingdom has been one of the most favored places for relocation. As a developed nation with a high quality of life amenities, it is a dream spot for those seeking to settle down in another country. It's fortunate that even those who haven't obtained a high educational degree might still be able to move to the country and establish themselves in the labor market. This is evident in the high employment rate of foreign-born individuals with a low education degree. 14. Spain Foreign born with low-level of education: 26% Employment rate of foreign born with low-level of education: 58% International migrant stock (% of population): 15% Insider Monkey average percentage: 33 There are multiple ways to obtain immigrant status in Spain, and individuals without a degree can also fit in. Its low cost of living and high standard of life have attracted many aspiring individuals to seek jobs or invest in businesses. The percentage of foreign-born individuals with a low education level points to a fair share of immigrants corresponding to the category of no degree holders. The more than 50% employment rate of people with a low education level is also very encouraging, making Spain one of the easiest countries to immigrate to without a degree. 13. Portugal Foreign born with low-level of education: 15% Employment rate of foreign born with low-level of education: 75% International migrant stock (% of population): 10% Insider Monkey average percentage: 33 Portugal is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after countries for expats and is also among the easiest countries to obtain a second passport without having to have a degree. For more details, check our article on the 15 Easiest Countries for a Second Passport for US Citizens. The international migrant stock percentage for the country has been on the rise as more people rush to avail the stunning, luxurious, and low-cost lifestyle that the country has to offer. Furthermore, it is auspicious for immigrants with a low education level to see a quite high rate of employment for individuals with lower education. Thus, with such immigrant-friendly statistics, it is no wonder that Portugal is among the easiest countries to immigrate to without a degree. 12. Hungary Foreign born with low-level of education: 15% Employment rate of foreign born with low-level of education: 80% International migrant stock (% of population): 6% Insider Monkey average percentage: 34 Over the years, Hungary has rapidly become a favorite spot for expats wishing to relocate to a European country. This worlds first official wine region has a lot to offer to those seeking a higher quality of life. There are various ways to apply for a visa to the country, including through employment, business, seasonal work, professional workers, and student visas. Individuals without a degree can immigrate and, more importantly, comfortably integrate into the labor market. The employment rate for the low-educated is at 80%, instilling confidence in the hearts of people moving in without a degree. 11. Denmark Foreign born with low-level of education: 31% Employment rate of foreign born with low-level of education: 59% International migrant stock (% of population): 12% Insider Monkey average percentage: 34 This Nordic country is a complete package for immigrants, offering beautiful scenery and high-quality amenities at an affordable range. A look at the countrys foreign-born statistics shows that a significant percentage of residents with a low education level are able to obtain jobs. These indicators foreshadow a favorable outcome for people looking to relocate without a degree. 10. Finland Foreign born with low-level of education: 39% Employment rate of foreign born with low-level of education: 58% International migrant stock (% of population): 7% Insider Monkey average percentage: 34 While the international migrant stock percentage for the worlds happiest nation is not very high, the country has been gaining popularity as a potential European state for migration. It also appears to be a viable option for people without a degree, as the foreign-born population with a low education level constitutes a fair amount of immigrants in the country. Moreover, the employment rate for them is pointing towards easy integration. Thus, Finland can be included in the list of easiest countries to immigrate to without a degree. 9. Switzerland Foreign born with low-level of education: 11% Employment rate of foreign born with low-level of education: 65% International migrant stock (% of population): 29% Insider Monkey average percentage: 35 One of the easiest countries to immigrate to without a degree, Switzerland has attracted many people with its gorgeous landscapes and high standard of living. The high percentage of the international migrant stock provides proof of the high demand for this country as a relocation destination. Although the country does not have a high rate of foreign-born individuals with low education, those that are present have good employment chances. Thus, Switzerland makes it to our list as one of the easiest countries to immigrate to without a degree. 8. Germany Foreign born with low-level of education: 38% Employment rate of foreign born with low-level of education: 58% International migrant stock (% of population): 19% Insider Monkey average percentage: 38 One of the strongest European economies, Germany has a lot to offer expats. It has an easy access to the huge European market, providing a plethora of work opportunities. The high international migrant stock percentage indicates a strong trend for moving to the country, and strong figures for foreign-born individuals with low education levels are another indication that the highly skilled or highly educated individuals are not exclusively admitted. The high employment rate also bodes well for people with low education levels. Given this scenario, we can place this country in the 8th position on our list of the easiest countries to immigrate to without a degree. 7. Sweden Foreign born with low-level of education: 39% Employment rate of foreign born with low-level of education: 57% International migrant stock (% of population): 20% Insider Monkey average percentage: 39 As one of the best permanent residency countries in the world, Sweden can become a haven for people without a degree looking to set down their roots. The international migrant stock is high as a percentage of the population, and foreign-born individuals with low education levels are also fairly common in this country. The good news is that job opportunities and labor market integration for these immigrants seem abundant, as depicted by the high employment rate. Therefore, for individuals without a degree, migration is still a possibility in this country, making it one of the easiest countries to immigrate to without a degree. 6. Cyprus Foreign born with low-level of education: 30% Employment rate of foreign born with low-level of education: 71% International migrant stock (% of population): 16% Insider Monkey average percentage: 39 While Cyprus has much to offer in terms of natural beauty and good quality of life, it is equally attractive to people who have not been able to acquire a college or university degree. The country hosts a fair share of foreign-born individuals without any higher education to their name. Additionally, the high employment rate for these people is very promising for future applicants. These favorable conditions for the low-educated individuals make Cyprus one of the easiest countries to immigrate to without a degree. Click to continue reading and see our 5 Easiest Countries to Immigrate to Without a Degree. Suggested Articles: Disclosure: None. 16 Easiest Countries to Immigrate to Without a Degree is originally published on Insider Monkey. For more than four decades Ori-Plast has looked forward, and only forward (1965 to 2012 and beyond). The founder of the company, the late and honorable Mr. S R Agarwal, had a knack for transforming opportunities into achievements. Ori-Plast started producing plastic pipes at a time when very few people had heard, much less understood their potential. Today Ori-Plast has become the acknowledged leader across a gamut of advanced plastic piping application. Ori-Plast group established 50 Years ago and ISO 9001-2008 certified group with a reputation of total commitment towards satisfying our customer with best quality products. Current annual turnover of the company is in excess of INR 225 Crores. The company has four modern manufacturing facilities located at Balasore (Orissa), Behror (Rajasthan), Bagnan & Dulagarh (West Bengal) meeting demands of Customers. At all the locations, the company manufactures a wide range of uPVC, cPVC, SWR and Bore-well pipes & fittings and Water Tanks conforming to various sizes according to domestic and international standards (ISO,BIS,DIN & ASTM etc). Our major customer base which include both Public and Private organisations such as UNICEF, UNOPS, ADB, GAIL, ONGC, Shapoorji Pallonji & Co. Ltd, Nagarjuna Construction Co. Ltd, NTPC Ltd, TISCO, Tripura Natural Gas Co. Ltd, Orissa Lift Irrigation Corp, Indian Oil Co. Ltd, Uranium Co. of India Ltd, Nuclear Power Corp. of India Ltd, L & T Co. Ltd, KMC. Our Head-office is located in Kolkata, with regional offices at Bhubaneswar, Guwahati, Delhi, Jaipur, Nagpur, Hyderabad, and Secunderabad & Mumbai. We have a staff strength of over 1000. McNicholas Warms Up For GUKPT Manchester Main Event With High Roller Victory February 09, 2024 Matthew Pitt Senior Editor Euan McNicholas got the job done in a Grosvenor UK Poker Tour (GUKPT) event once again, taking down the 1,650 High Roller in Manchester. With the 1,250 GUKPT Manchester Main Event underway, McNicholas will enter the fray confident of adding that title to his 2021 GUKPT London Main Event trophy. The top 15 finishers from a field of 110 shared the 158,400 prize pool. Reigning Irish Open champion David Docherty was the first player to cash, with the likes of Thomas Clack, Andrew Hulme, and Endrit Geci banking some prize money but falling short of a final table appearance. Andy Wilson busted in ninth, narrowly missing out on playing under the watchful eyes of the Grosvenor livestream GUKPT Manchester High Roller Final Table Results Rank Player Prize 1 Euan McNicholas 37,540 2 Matt Davenport 28,510 3 Tuan Le 20,440 4 Keith Johnson 14,090 5 George Pop 9,980 6 Marc Foggin 7,450 7 Yucel Eminoglu 6,490 8 Brandon Sheils 5,860 9 Andrew Wilson 5,230 Ninety minutes passed without an elimination before two players exited during the same hand. Brandon Sheils shoved for 565,000 with ace-eight from late position during the 40,000/80,000/80,000a level, Tuan Le called with ace-four of hearts from the small blind, only for Yucel "Mad Turk" Eminoglu to wake up in the big blind with ace-king. Eminoglu shoved for 1,200,000, and Le decided to call, putting both all-in players at risk. Sheils took the lead after flopping an eight, but there were two hearts showing. A flush-completing seven of hearts landed on the turn, locking up the hand for Le. The inconsequential queen of hearts completed the community cards, leaving Sheils and Eminoglu void of chips. Sixth place went to the North East's Marc Foggin, who clashed with George Pop. Blinds were 50,000/100,000/100,000a, Le min-raised from the cutoff with five-four of diamonds from the cutoff, Pop three-bet all-in for 1,400,000 with pocket queens on the button, and Foggin called all-in for 590,000 in the big blind with a pair of eights in the hole. Le ducked out of the way. Both players improved to two pair on the flop, but Foggin was still way behind. The turn didn't change anything, and the queen on the river saw Pop's hand become a full house. Game over for Foggin. Grosvenor Casinos Unveils 2024 GUKPT and 25/50 Schedule Save the dates By the time the blinds reached 80,000/160,000/160,000a, Pop was down to 855,000 chips and in need of making a move. McNicholas had a colossal stack compared to his remaining opponents and was putting maximum pressure on them. McNicholas moved all-in for 5,300,000 from under the gun with king-eight, and Pop made his move by calling all-in with pocket fives. A king-deuce-eight flop left Pop drawing thin, and he failed to catch a five on the turn or river. Keith Johnson came unstuck almost immediately after Pop busted. Johnson committed his 1,200,000 stack with ace-deuce from the small blind, and McNicholas called with the dominating ace-six from the big blind. Both players paired their non-ace hole card on the flop, and McNicholas' hand held to reduce the final table to three players. The exciting Le was the next to fall, busting in third and sending the GUKPT Manchester High Roller into the heads-up stage. With blinds of 100,000/200,000/200,000a, Matt Davenport, who was down to five big blinds at one stage, limped on the button with ace-king of hearts. Le took the bait and moved all-in with king-jack for 1,400,000; Davenport called. Davenport had the hand locked up after turning a full house. McNicholas held a 6,300,000 to 4,500,000 chip lead over Davenport going into the one-on-one battle, and it took around ten minutes for him to press home that advantage and become a GUKPT champion again. The final hand saw Davenport limp in with ace-ten, McNicholas jam for 8,100,000 with queen-jack, and Davenport call all-in for 2,700,000. A jack on the flop propelled McNicholas into the lead, and his hand remained best to send Davenport to the rail in second place. Luke Porter Defies the Odds to Become the 2024 GUKPT London Champion Remaining GUKPT Manchester Events Day 1B of the 1,250 GUKPT Manchester Main Event shuffles up and deals at 12:00 p.m. on February 9, with the turbo-structured Day 1C getting underway later in the day at 9:00 p.m. Over the weekend, the Main Event edges towards crowning its champion, while the 550 GUKPT Cup, 150 Seniors, 330 Pot-Limit Omaha 4/5/6 Card Bounty, and 200 Closer play along side it. Date Time Event Fri 9 Feb 12:00 p.m. 1,250 NLHE GUKPT Main Event Day 1B 9:00 p.m. 1,250 NLHE GUKPT Main Event Day 1C Turbo Sat 10 Feb 12:00 p.m. 1,250 GUKPT Main Event Day 2 2:30 p.m. 550 NLHE GUKPT Cup Day 1 Sun 11 Feb 12:00 p.m. GUKPT Main Event Day 3 12:30 p.m. 550 GUKPT Cup Day 2 1:00 p.m. 150 NLHE Seniors 3:00 p.m. 330 PLO 4/5/6 Card Bounty 7:00 p.m. 200 NLHE Closer Sharelines Here's how the thrilling GUKPT Manchester High Roller final table went down. President Biden seized on the report by Special Counsel Hur to talk about the classified documents crimes of Trump. What Did Biden Say About The Special Counsel Report And Trump Biden said: I was especially pleased to see the special counsel make clear the stark differences between this case and Donald Trump. As the special counsel wrote, and I quote, several material distinctions between Mr. Trumps case and Mr. Bidens are clear. By the way, this is a Republican counsel. Most notably, after being given multiple chances, this is a continuation of the quote: he returned classified documents and avoided prosecution here, while Mr. Trump allegedly did the opposite. To get more stories like this, subscribe to our newsletter The Daily. This is a continuing quote, according to the indictment, he is not only refused to return documents for many months, he also obstructed justice by enlisting others to destroy evidence and lie about it. In contrast, Mr. Biden turned in classified documents to the national archives, and the Department of Justice considered a search of multiple locations, including his homes, and set for a volunteer interview and, in other words, cooperated with the investigation. That is the distinction, among others. The bottom line is that the special counsel in my case decided against moving forward with any charges. This matter is now closed. Video: Biden Turns The Hur Report To An Advantage The Hur report confirms that Biden committed no crime, but the Trump-nominated special counsel used his report to offer an opinionated characterization of President Bidens memory that had nothing to do with the classified documents case. The President has turned the report to his advantage even though the White House is unhappy about the subjective characterizations because it gives the President an opportunity to discuss Trumps alleged crimes. Biden will have plenty of chances to prove that his memory is fine, but all it will take is one felony conviction for Trump to be finished. A Special Message From PoliticusUSA If you are in a position to donate purely to help us keep the doors open on PoliticusUSA during what is a critical election year, please do so here. We have been honored to be able to put your interests first for 14 years as we only answer to our readers and we will not compromise on that fundamental, core PoliticusUSA value. Jack Smith may have set the stage for getting Aileen Cannon off the Trump classified documents case in a new court filing. What Did Jack Smith Argue In A New Filing? Smiths team wrote in their filing that Judge Cannon made a clear error by refusing to protect witnesses in the classified documents case: Reconsideration is warranted to correct clear error and prevent manifest injustice. As explained below, the Court applied the wrong legal standard and issued orders that, in practice, will expose witnesses and others to intolerable and needless risks. Before addressing those issues, however, the Government responds to the defendants procedural objection, see supra n.1. Although the Government is cognizant of the fact that motions for reconsideration should not be used to present new evidence or argument, Grobman, 548 F. Supp. 3d at 1348, reconsideration is appropriate here given the context in which this discovery dispute has arisen. The defendants here were not legally entitled to a list of the Governments witnesses, or to their statements or grand jury transcripts, prior to trial. To get more stories like this, subscribe to our newsletter The Daily. Why Aileen Cannon Might Be Removed From The Trump Classified Documents Case? Legal expert and Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institution Norm Eisen thinks that this could be the third strike that will get Judge Cannon off of the case. Eisen posted on X: Lotta news but something MAJOR happened last night Smith filed motion for Judge Cannon to reconsider order unsealing names & stmts of some witnesses in MAL docs case.This could be start of getting Cannon thrown off case under 11 Cir bias rules. Cannon already has two strikes against her from when she oversaw the docs investigation First the 11th Cir preliminarily reversed a stay she imposed And then they permanently reversed her outrageous appointment of a special master This latest order may be strike three Why? 1st of all, reconsideration is an extraordinary remedy that should be employed sparingly to correct CLEAR ERROR and PREVENT MANIFEST INJUSTICE So the fact that Smith made this motion shows how wrong Smith thinks Cannon was & how dangerous he thinks her order was. Cannon is a Trump nominated judge who has had her qualifications and potential bias toward the former president questioned in this case. Smith seems to be laying the groundwork for another appellate court smackdown of Cannon, and if it happens, that might finally be the end of Trumps favorite judge running the classified documents case. A Special Message From PoliticusUSA If you are in a position to donate purely to help us keep the doors open on PoliticusUSA during what is a critical election year, please do so here. We have been honored to be able to put your interests first for 14 years as we only answer to our readers and we will not compromise on that fundamental, core PoliticusUSA value. The FCC has made it illegal to interfere in an election with AI deepfake robocalls like the fakes of Joe Biden that targeted New Hampshire Democrats. The AP reported: The Federal Communications Commission on Thursday outlawed robocalls that contain voices generated by artificial intelligence, a decision that sends a clear message that exploiting the technology to scam people and mislead voters wont be tolerated. Those who break the law can face steep fines, with a maximum of more than $23,000 per call, the FCC said. The agency has previously used the consumer law to clamp down on robocallers interfering in elections, including imposing a $5 million fine on two conservative hoaxers for falsely warning people in predominantly Black areas that voting by mail could heighten their risk of arrest, debt collection and forced vaccination. To get more stories like this, subscribe to our newsletter The Daily. The law also gives call recipients the right to take legal action and potentially recover up to $1,500 in damages for each unwanted call. The FCC ruling is more than a big fine and legal liability, State attorneys general now have a mechanism that they can use to prosecute these offenses. None of this is expected to make election interference deep fake robocalls go away, but if they are attempted on a mass scale, there are now some tools in the toolbox for prosecution. A Special Message From PoliticusUSA If you are in a position to donate purely to help us keep the doors open on PoliticusUSA during what is a critical election year, please do so here. We have been honored to be able to put your interests first for 14 years as we only answer to our readers and we will not compromise on that fundamental, core PoliticusUSA value. In this article, we discuss the 25 Countries That Gave the Most Foreign Aid in 2023. If you want to skip our detailed discussion of the topic, you can skip it and go directly to 5 Countries That Gave the Most Foreign Aid in 2023. Governments of developed and established countries help other countries in need through foreign aid. Mostly, this is to form alliances and develop friendships as countries. In the year 2022, as per the latest data available from the OECD database, the member countries of the Development Assistance Committee (DAC) gave a total foreign aid of $211 billion to developing countries and those in need of urgent humanitarian aid. Compared to 2021, the volume of foreign aid had increased by 17% in 2022. Note that volume does not equate to provision of capital. That's because foreign aid comes in various forms, including gifts, grants, loans, food supplies, services, medical assistance, training services, peacebuilding, infrastructure building, healthcare, or humanitarian assistance, by one or multilateral countries or international institutions. Moreover, according to the rules set by OECDs DAC, the first-year costs, such as accommodation, food, health, and education, spent on asylum seekers or refugees by the host country can also be considered official development assistance (ODA). Foreign aid can also be fiscal and military, which is considered one of the significant sources of foreign exchange. While it may seem odd for a country to aid another country with military services, it primarily demonstrates goodwill. One of the most common reasons why countries give out foreign aid is to help developing countries fight poverty, and that clause comes under the Official Development Assistance (ODA) program. The main source of ODA comes from bilateral grants from one country to another, including loans channeled by International and non-governmental organizations. Sometimes, countries offer foreign aid to another country to improve their own security. For instance, when a hostile government tries to take over politically friendly countries or goes to war with them, helping the countries with military and financial assistance improves the donors security. A good example of this was seen during the Russia-Ukraine war. According to the Media Govt report, the United States has sent a total of $44.2 billion worth of military aid to Ukraine to help the country win the Russia-Ukraine war. Another common reason behind giving foreign aid is to accomplish a political aim, such as getting diplomatic recognition in a region. Story continues Whatever the purpose behind it may be, almost every country either provides or receives foreign aid. However, generosity is not compared by how much total volume of aid a country gives. Rather, its compared by how much foreign aid a country gives per capita (See: 25 Countries that Give the Most Foreign Aid Per Capita), or the ODA/GNI scale, which measures what percent of Gross National Income a country spends on aid. In 1970, the United Nations set the target of ODA/GNI at 0.7% for every developed country and has been re-endorsing it since. In the list below, well discuss countries that gave the most foreign aid in 2023 as measured by the ODA/GNI scale. The primary goal of the 0.7% ODA/GNI target is to help developing countries achieve economic stability. Interestingly, governments and international organizations are not the only entities to help another country. Some companies also engage in helping countries in dire need. Leading companies like American Airlines (NASDAQ: AAL), Walmart Inc (NYSE: WMT), and Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ: GOOG) generously give back to society in charities that go worldwide. American Airlines (NASDAQ: AAL) has adopted a Global Giving Strategy, where they focus on spreading breast cancer awareness, disaster relief, and donating to NGOs that work in humanitarian causes. Similarly, Walmart Inc (NYSE: WMT) globally donates 1.3 billion dollars to NGOs dedicated to anti-hunger programs. From food, refrigerated trucks, and other logistics, Walmart Inc (NYSE: WMT) donates to make this world a better place. Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ: GOOG) does similar philanthropic work, donating generously to humanitarian aid reliefs. Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ: GOOG) also assists underserved communities to participate in college programs in AI and Robotics. Other than these three, there are many other companies that engage in charity and social activities. If you'd like to have a detailed list of those companies, click here. Coming back to foreign aid, 2024 may be a pivotal year in this regard as DAC countries decide between prioritizing the funding of the SDGs in the wake of climate emergencies or funding international development in the wake of increasing economic deceleration, renewed political instability, and humanitarian conflicts. Below is a list of countries that gave the most foreign aid in 2023. 25 Countries That Gave the Most Foreign Aid in 2023 25 Countries That Gave the Most Foreign Aid in 2023 Our Methodology For our list of countries that gave the most foreign aid in 2023, weve utilized data from the ODI/GNI scale, as listed in the Principled Aid Index of 2023. The index scored countries based on their aid towards development gaps, global cooperation, and public-spiritedness, with the total score being 30. A high score indicates a high amount of foreign aid in these sectors, while a low score indicates the opposite. By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that uses a consensus approach to identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The website tracks the movement of corporate insiders and hedge funds. Our top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 stock index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years (see the details here). So, if you are looking for the best stock picks to buy, you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders. 25 Countries That Gave the Most Foreign Aid in 2023 25. Portugal According to the ODIs Index, Portugal scored 12.4 out of 30 for principal aid, which is relatively low compared to other countries on our list. The country scored 4.77 in development gaps, 3.55 in global cooperation, and 4.08 in public spiritedness. Portugal has also been an important supporter since the beginning of the Global Fund, an international financing organization working specifically to fight epidemics. Moreover, it has announced to contribute around 1.5 million between 2023-2025 to the Global Fund, demonstrating its dedication and interest towards the betterment of Global Health. 24. Czech Republic According to the Czech Republics Development Cooperation Strategy Agenda 2018-2030, development programs have been concluded for only six countries. For these programs, three countries are chosen from the OECDs list of least developed countries: Ethiopia, Zambia, and Cambodia, while the other three are selected middle-income countries including Bosnia, Moldova, and Georgia. The Czech Republic also developed five-year bilateral cooperative programs for these six countries, which ended in 2023. The next round of country programming is being reviewed. Overall, the Czech Republic scored 13.6 out of 30 in Principle Aid according to ODIs Index for 2023. It scored 4.95 for the development gaps, 3.92 for the global cooperation, and 4.73 for the public-spiritedness. 23. Hungary Hungary has been a member of the DAC (Development Assistance Committee) since only 2016 but has shown great capacity to improve according to established DAC standards. The Principled Aid Index shows a total score of 15.08 out of 30 for Hungary, with 4.52 scores for development gaps, 4.53 for global cooperation, and 6.03 for public spiritedness. These are relatively good scores, meaning Hungary has been a prominent donor of financial aid in 2023. The first OECD-DAC peer review for Hungary 2023 has praised the impressive ODA growth of the country and its international efforts for the management of sustainable water provision. 22. New Zealand New Zealands strong political commitment and its focus on indigenous values in policy-making and partnerships compelled the first OECD-DAC peer review 2023 to praise it as well. As of 2024, New Zealand has provided around 70 million USD in military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine so far. According to the Principled Aid Index, New Zealand had a total score of 17.11 out of 30 in 2023, out of which 2.73 was for the development gaps, 6.83 for global cooperation, and 7.55 for public spiritedness. Overall, its a good score, positioning New Zealand 22 in the top 25 countries that gave the most foreign aid last year. 21. Australia The foreign aid budget of Australia was around 4.549 billion USD in the years 2022-2023. According to the ODA (Official Development Assistance) 2023-2024 budget summary, Australia will provide another 25 million USD for refugees, 11 million USD for an emergency response fund, and 20 million USD for a relief and works agency for Palestine refugees in the Near East. For 2023, the Principled Aid Index shows that Australia scored 17.79 out of 30 overall. The disaggregated data further shows that it had the least contribution to development gaps with a score of 4.09 for development gaps, a moderate contribution for global cooperation with a score of 5.53, and the highest contribution towards public spiritedness, with a score of 8.17. 20. Austria Austria has finalized and started the implementation of its development policy (2022-2024) focusing extensively on combating poverty, peacekeeping and human security, and protecting natural resources. OECD-DAC peer review 2023 has welcomed Austria's governments three-year program as a coordinated approach. According to the Principled Aid Index Austria scored 17.88 out of 30, which is only slightly higher than New Zealand. Austria had a score of 5.17 under the development gaps domain, and 5.71 for public spiritedness. Out of all three domains, its contributions were mostly towards global cooperation in the year 2023, with a score of 7 on the Principled Aid Index. 19. Spain On number nineteen comes Spain, a country that has shown a strong commitment to development despite fluctuations in foreign aid allocation over the years. According to the General State Budget for 2023, the ODA of Spain reached 4.6 billion USD last year. The Principled Aid Index shows that Spain has scored a total of 17.96 out of 30 for its 2023 foreign aid efforts, out of which development gaps and global cooperation had a score of 5.61 and 5.76 respectively, and public-spiritedness had a score of 6.58. In the first quarter of 2023, Spain approved a Law on Co-operation for Sustainable Development and Global Solidarity, which means Spain has committed to the allocation of 0.7% of its GNI to Official Development Assistance by 2030. 18. France In 2023, Frances total ODA funding reached around 19 billion USD which is estimated to be 0.55% of its GNI. According to the Principled Aid Index, France scored 18.06 out of 30 with a score of 3.43 for the development gaps, 7.46 for global cooperation, and 7.17 for public spiritedness. 17. Japan In November 2023, the Japanese Government announced the reopening of the JICA Ukraine office which is responsible for providing over 1.1 billion USD funds to Ukraine. The government also announced 10 million USD to support childrens education in Afghanistan in July 2023, and another 10 million USD to empower Afghan women in October 2023. Japan donated significantly more foreign aid than France in 2023, with a score of 18.96 out of 30 on the Principled Aid Index. It contributed the most towards global cooperation, moderately towards public spiritedness, and the least towards development gaps, with scores of 7.14, 6.62, and 5.19 respectively. For 2024, Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed the ODA budget allocation to be US$2.2 billion. 16. Italy Italy 2021-23's programming and policy planning for international development cooperation focused on 20 countries, out of which 10 were the least developed ones (LDCs). According to the UNHCR donor report, Italys total aid contribution in 2023 was around 33.1 million USD. On ODIs Principled Aid Index, Italy has a score of 19.79, with disaggregated scores of 6.15 for the development gaps, 7.45 for global cooperation, and 6.18 for public spiritedness. Overall, this is a significant donation in all domains. 15. Finland Finland was among countries that gave the most aid in 2023. The Humanitarian Aid for Finland in 2023 totaled around 112.6 million EUROS out of which 31% was allocated for humanitarian agencies, 58% for country and region-specific operations, and 11% for civil society organizations. The Principled Aid Index shows that Japan has scored 19.99 out of 30 on the ODI scale while scoring 6.11 for development gaps, 8.46 for global cooperation, and 5.42 for public spiritedness. 14. Germany Ranked 14, Germany is known for being one of the largest DAC members in terms of ODA volumes. However, due to its current economic situation, Germany has cut down its budget for foreign aid in 2024 by almost 2 billion. According to the Principled Aid Index, Germany scored 20.31 out of 30 on the ODI scale, with a score of 4.41 for the development gaps, 8.42 for global cooperation, and 7.49 for public spiritedness. 13. Switzerland Switzerland gave just slightly more aid than Germany in 2023, which is reflected in its score of 20.80 on the Principled Aid Index. With a score of 8, 7.75, and 5.04 respectively, it contributed the most towards global cooperation, the least towards development gaps, and moderately towards public spiritedness. For the period of 2025-28, Switzerland has allocated a budget of around $12.75 billion for international cooperation activities, with the focus being primarily on Ukraine and climate change. 12. Belgium In 2022, Belgium provided an ODA of $2.7 billion, which makes it the 17th largest DAC donor by volume. Between 2023 and 2024, Belgiums aid estimates stand at US$3.4 billion and US$3.3 billion respectively. At a UNHRC conference, Belgium announced around 32.5 million USD of funding to the organization for the period of 2021-23, which translated to around 10.84 million USD yearly. According to the Principled Aid Index, Belgium scored 20.96 out of 30 for its aid in 2023, with a score of 6.23 for the development gaps, 6.56 for global cooperation, and 8.17 for public spiritedness. 11. Korea Ranked number eleven on the aid index, Koreas 2023 total ODA budget was confirmed to be 3.8 billion USD the largest ever in the past decade. The Principled Aid index shows Koreas total score to be 21.01, with 6.19 for the development gaps, 7.14 for global cooperation, and 7.68 for public spiritedness. Click to continue reading and see the 10 Countries that Gave the Most Foreign Aid in 2023. Suggested articles: Disclosure: None. 25 Countries that Gave the Most Foreign Aid in 2023 is originally published on Insider Monkey. A self-storage business and the property where it is located on Aikens Southside were sold late last year for $6.794 million. SROA 2598 Whiskey SC LLC was the buyer, and NSA Property Holdings LLC was the seller. Formerly known as SecurCare Self Storage, the business now is called Storage Rentals of America. Its facilities are on an approximately 4.6-acre site at 2598 Whiskey Road. SROA 2598 Whiskey SC is associated with SROA Capital of West Palm Beach, Florida. According to its website, SROA Capital is a vertically integrated private equity real estate and technology platform that has an established track record of providing risk adjusted returns to its partners through its focused strategy of investing in self storage on behalf of its principals and partners. SROA Capital has invested equity [in], acquired, redeveloped, and developed self storage [businesses] across the risk spectrum in major and secondary markets across the United States under the brand Storage Rentals of America, the description also states. In 2021, NSA Property Holdings acquired the Whiskey Road site of what now is known as Storage Rentals of America for $8.47 million from the Caldwell Generational Trust, Todd William Gaul, trustee. Beginning Monday, Aiken County residents can cast their ballots to determine the Republican Party's presidential nominee. Early voting in the 2024 South Carolina Republican Presidential Preference Primary begins Monday and continues through Feb. 22. Who can vote early? All South Carolina residents registered to vote by Jan. 25 that did not vote in the Feb. 3 Democratic primary can vote early. South Carolina previously required voters to be a member of one of several categories to vote early. However, this law was changed temporarily before the 2020 presidential election and that change was made permanent in 2021. The Palmetto State does not have closed primaries, meaning anyone from the most conservative voter to the most liberal can vote in either the Democratic or Republican presidential primary, but not both. Who will be on the ballot? Seven names will be on the ballot: Ryan Binkley, Chris Christie, Ron DeSantis, Nikki Haley, Vivek Ramaswamy, David Stuckenberg and Donald Trump. Christie, DeSantis and Ramaswamy have suspended their campaigns and will have the word suspended next to their names. Binkley and Stuckenberg are longshot candidates who each received less than 1% of the vote in Iowa and New Hampshire. No write-ins are allowed. Trump, the former president, is widely favored in polls and betting markets to win the South Carolina primary and the Republican nomination. RealClearPolitics's polling average shows Trump receiving 73.5% of the vote nationally and Haley receiving 18.8% of the vote. RealClearPolitics also shows Trump receiving 53.7% of the vote in South Carolina and Haley receiving 26.7% of the vote. ElectionBettingOdds.com shows Trump with an 89.4% chance of winning the Republican nomination. BLUFFTON The Bluffton Town Council has a seat to fill, and two Emilys are vying for the spot. Emily Vaux Burden and Emily Mayer will face off in a Feb. 13 special election to finish out the two-year term of former council member Larry Toomer. Toomer succeeded Lisa Sulka as mayor last year after Sulka announced her retirement from Bluffton politics, ending a 16-year run in office. As political newcomers, neither Emily will have the advantage of incumbency, which was a major factor in the November election where each of Bluffton's established candidates defeated political newcomers at every opportunity. Both hope to protect Bluffton's quality of life for future generations. Emily Vaux Burden A small business owner, Burden opened Gigi's Boutique in Old Town Bluffton 16 years ago. Before the boutique and the birth of her four children, she worked in finance. Burden was born and raised in Bluffton, and said she plans on living the rest of her life there. "I decided to run for Town Council because I just really love our town, and I want to help protect our quality of life," Burden said. "I'm not a politician, and I have no agenda. My only goal is to leave things better for the next generation." She has been endorsed by a number of officials, including former Mayor Sulka and current Mayor Toomer. "I have been privileged to know Emily all her life," Toomer said. "Emily understands where Bluffton has been and where it needs to go. She will be an extraordinary member of Council and has a bright future in the leadership of Bluffton." Burden's priorities include resources for law enforcement, protecting the May River and working toward affordable housing and responsible growth "to control our development as best we can." She lists a boom in development as potentially the biggest challenge Bluffton will face in coming years. Artificial intelligence has become a pervasive hot topic not just here in South Carolina, but across America and throughout the world. In 2023 alone there was a 3,600% increase in online interest relating to generative AI, according to OReilly, the leading technology insights company. Yet d Read moreCommentary: How South Carolina is striking the right balance on AI The first of two major early financial settlements in the "forever chemicals" water-contamination lawsuits being litigated in downtown Charleston has been approved. In a 39-page final order dated Feb. 8, U.S. District Court Judge Richard Gergel cast aside the objections and said the $1.185 billion compensation plan from DuPont and two former subsidiaries is fair, reasonable and adequate." The three companies are key defendants in the nationwide litigation involving a once-widely used firefighting foam that polluted public drinking-water systems after being sprayed on the ground. Described as imperfect, the DuPont-led deal emerged in June, days before the first scheduled jury trial. A three-hour fairness hearing was held in December. The two other companies involved are Chemours Co. and Corteva Inc. "The court finds the settlement is fair, and all factors weigh in favor of this finding," Gergel wrote in his decision Thursday. "The settlement was reached through good faith bargaining at arms length without collusion; there is nothing in the record to suggest otherwise." As for its reasonableness, he said it wasn't a guarantee that the water systems would prevail against the three companies, which were responsible for no more than 7 percent of the contamination, and that success "would only come, if ever, after years of protracted, expensive, complex litigation." Gergel also noted that a "lack of substantive opposition" to the DuPont offer "weighs in favor of finding it adequate." Gergel's previous comments and rulings suggested he strongly favored the deal, which is part of a much larger multistate case that was assigned to him and consolidated in Charleston more than five years ago. Thousands of lawsuits have been docketed at the Four Corners of Law over the ingestible toxins, which dont break down easily in the environment and have been linked to a variety of health ailments, including liver and immune-system damage and some cancers. Note: Since this story was originally published on Feb. 9, a Harris Teeter spokeswoman said Feb. 16 the actual date of the store's opening may be "shifted." A new opening date was not provided. The word "tentatively" has been added to this story. The first of a cartload of new supermarkets coming to the Charleston area soon will open. North Carolina-based Harris Teeter plans tentatively to host its grand opening at 8 a.m. April 17 on Nexton Parkway at Brighton Park Boulevard near Summerville, according to spokeswoman Danna Robinson. The first full day of business will follow a "Taste of Teeter" preview of the 64,000-square-foot grocery store from 4-7 p.m. April 16. Participants can sample products, and registers will be open for those looking to shop during the preliminary event. The new store also includes a fuel station. Plans also call for outparcel buildings on the 14-acre site. Harris Teeter, a subsidiary of The Kroger Co. of Cincinnati, bought the property in 2016 for $4.76 million, according to Berkeley County land records. Across the street, Florida-based Publix is under construction and is expected to open the 48,000-square-foot store by mid-year, according to Nexton spokeswoman Cassie Cataline. The supermarket will anchor One Nexton, a new retail development with a mix of tenants. The competing Berkeley County grocery stores are coming to the 5,000-acre unincorporated Nexton community where 7,500 residences will exist at full buildout in about 15 years, bringing 18,750 people to the Charleston suburbs. That's more than the current population of Moncks Corner. The founder of a Goose Creek metal fabrication firm that's helping to build parts for the Navy's next-generation nuclear submarine says his company isn't failing despite losing a big defense contract and undergoing scrutiny by the U.S. Department of Justice. Ed Walker, CEO of W International, denied a recent report in Forbes magazine that stated his company "has almost entirely collapsed." "We're extremely busy, we're still hiring and we fully expect to continue to be a premier supplier for many years to come," Walker said last week. Walker said the welding and metal shop off Bushy Park Road is lining up new customers to either supplement or replace the shipbuilding contracts W International was created more than four years ago to fulfill. For example, the company recently built an 80-ton emergency gate for the Pinopolis lock that state-owned utility Santee Cooper operates at Lake Moultrie. But the company has seen troubles in recent months. Newport News Shipbuilding, which hired W International to build modules for a new class of aircraft carriers, canceled its contract and is not currently doing business with the company. Forbes reported this month that General Dynamics subsidiary Electric Boat, which hired W International to build submarine parts, will cut ties with the company after its current contract winds down in early 2026. Walker would not discuss his company's work with Electric Boat. He said W International remains an approved supplier for Newport News Shipbuilding and he hopes to do work for the Virginia-based company in the future. At this moment, author DeLana R.A. Dameron is on the cusp. The South Carolina authors name is hitting shelves and online carts around the country. It is in bright yellow type on the cover and spine of Redwood Court, the published poets debut novel that radiates from a Columbia cul-de-sac in the 1990s in an intimate and poignant account of one Black Southern family who has made it their home. In the novel, which was released on Feb. 6, Dameron depicts, in an absorbing specificity of time and place, all of the highs and lows of life in the South the cookouts and the funerals, the cross-generational battles and the enduring familial bonds. And while the author borrows heavily from her own Columbia upbringing, the fictional work is a world of its own. Centered on the coming-of-age experience of a young girl named Mika, the work also gathers a collective of voices, doling out chapters to family members. Passing the narrative perspective around like the deviled eggs and potato salad served up at some family events, each adds further backstory and a unique vantage to the familys shared experience. From 'Redwood' to Reese And that aggregate story is resonating. Just out of the publishing house gate, Redwood Court is already primed for literary renown. A Feb. 4 review in The New York Times states, Dameron is a prizewinning poet and it shows: She does a beautiful job weaving in local vernacular and casting a fresh gaze on an engaging, though flawed, cast of characters. Then theres this recent uptick. Following its publication, Redwood Court was anointed Reeses Book Club Pick for the month of February. The regular feature of Reese Witherspoon is one of the book worlds shiniest brass rings, known to offer sales-worthy sheen to new releases. The announcement was featured in an Instagram post by the book club, along with a free giveaway promotion. COLUMBIA A former Charleston priest who pleaded guilty to sexual exploitation of a minor was sentenced to 21 years and 10 months in federal prison. Jaime Adolfo Gonzalez-Farias received the sentence Feb. 8, roughly six months after he confessed in court to traveling with an 11-year-old child across state lines to engage in sexual activity. The official charge was transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. He was also charged with aggravated sexual abuse of a child and coercion of a minor, but those charges were dropped when he pleaded guilty on Aug. 10, 2023. U.S. District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis ordered 69-year-old Gonzalez-Farias to pay $14,240 in restitution to the child's family, and ruled he is to be supervised upon release from prison for the rest of his life. "It's a terrible situation for everyone involved," Lewis said during the Feb. 8 hearing, adding that the former priest ruined his own life as well as the lives of the child he admitted to abusing and the child's family. "The impact of this just cannot be overstated." Known as Father Gonzales, the former priest moved to South Carolina from his native Chile in 2015 and served with the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charleston for five years, working across the state in Greer, Newberry, Laurens and Joanna. Gonzales-Farias met an 11-year-old boy through this work in early 2020 and groomed him, calling him nicknames, texting him things like "I love you" and giving him gifts including a cell phone, according to Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliott Daniels, one of the prosecutors in the case. In November 2020, Gonzales-Farias took the child on a trip to Florida for a "beach vacation" where the U.S. Attorney's Office said the priest abused the minor by showing him pornography and masturbating in front of him crimes Daniels said Gonzales-Farias committed in both Florida and South Carolina. Believing the relationship to be inappropriate, the child's family reported it to Catholic authorities following the trip to Florida, and the diocese then contacted the Laurens County Sheriff's Department. Though the priest was put on administrative leave in late-2020 for inappropriate interactions with a minor, the diocese stopped short of outright alleging sexual misconduct at the time. COLUMBIA Health care, fresh food and law enforcement are coming to the Bluff-Atlas Road corridor, an area of lower Richland County that has long been plagued by blight and poor access to such services. The roughly 20-acre site just west of the Bluff and Atlas roads intersection will be home to a Richland County sheriff's office substation and magistrate's office, Eau Claire health center, farmers market, affordable assisted living facilities and a green event space with walking trails and a pond. Groundbreaking will start soon as construction crews demolish abandoned buildings on the property. Officials hope to wrap up construction toward the end of 2025, but the assisted living facilities will take more time, officials said. City, county and state officials gathered on Feb. 8 to celebrate the project. "Lower Richland is a great community. It has been left out a lot of times in the past," Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott said. "Those days are over." Richland County will spend up to $2.5 million to build the sheriff's substation and magistrate's office, while the city of Columbia will spend around $10 million on the project. State Sen. Darrell Jackson said it has long been a need for residents of lower Richland, especially older residents, to be able to buy prescription medication, fresh food and be treated by health care providers in their own community. Columbia Mayor Daniel Rickenmann echoed that point, explaining that elected officials have talked about the need to develop this area of the county for decades. The farmers market will provide an opportunity for local farmers to sell their products and for small businesses to grow their brand, the mayor said. Officials hope that this development will kickstart a cascade of development in the surrounding area. Jacob Wackerhausen / iStock.com If youve got West Coast dreams but only $3,200 to spread across any given 30-day period, your options are almost non-existent almost. Discover: These 5 Cities Are Becoming Popular With Baby Boomers: Should You Consider Them for Your Retirement Years? See: 6 Genius Things All Wealthy People Do With Their Money Although life is more expensive adjacent to the Pacific Ocean than in almost any other place on Earth, there are still a handful of West Coast cities where you can retire with just 32 $100 bills per month. In fact, there are four that stand out for a variety of reasons, particularly if you are on a fixed income. The following cities are the best on the entire West Coast to retire on $3,200 a month. Manuela Durson / Shutterstock.com Grants Pass, Oregon 2023 Average Monthly Rent: $1,466 Livability Score: 68 Monthly Necessities Expenditures: $3,108 Moving to Grants Pass, Oregon is a great choice if you are hoping to drastically reduce your energy and water bills. Residents typically pay $3,707 each year breaking down to $309 per month on utilities costs, which is less than the U.S. average of $4,236 annually or $353 monthly for the same home services. For those who are looking to get out and about, expect to pay $294 each month in Grants Pass for your transportation costs. Next: Arizonas Retirees Are Fleeing: Heres Where Theyre Settling Learn: Retirees Spend Nearly $5,000 a Month Heres Where Their Income Goes and How To Plan Accordingly Sponsored: Owe the IRS $10K or more? Schedule a FREE consultation to see if you qualify for tax relief. gjohnstonphoto / Getty Images/iStockphoto Kennewick, Washington 2023 Average Monthly Rent: $1,624 Livability Score: 79 Monthly Necessities Expenditures: $3,198 Kennewick is the first of three cities in Washington that are affordable places to live, especially when you are on a fixed income and require additional healthcare. Kennewick annual healthcare costs total up to $6,522, more than $1,000 below the U.S. average of $7,540. That comes out to $544 per month, a significant price difference from the $628 average found across the nation. Story continues Kennewicks 79 livability score makes it the second highest-rated West Coast city to live in on this list. Read: Retired but Want To Make Passive Income? Here Are 6 Ideas for Retirees To Boost Financial Security Kendall Rittenour / Shutterstock.com Spokane, Washington 2023 Average Monthly Rent: $1,512 Livability Score: 80 Monthly Necessities Expenditures: $3,089 Coming in at No. 2 is Spokane, Washington, where the annual grocery cost is $4,739, just below the U.S. average of $4,797 each year. Healthcare costs $531 per month, or $6,371 per year, and annual transportation is priced out at $4,503 for those who are 65 years of age or older. Of all the cities ranked on this list, Spokane has the most big city feel for those seeking a slightly more metropolitan retirement destination. JeffGoulden / Getty Images Yakima, Washington 2023 Average Monthly Rent: $1,271 Livability Score: 78 Monthly Necessities Expenditures: $2,853 Holding down the top ranking is Yakima, Washington, where youll find the lowest average monthly rent coming to $1,272, beating out the U.S. average of $2,019 per month. While the livability rating is slightly below some of the other cities on the list, the healthcare cost of living index clocks in at 86.9, with an annual price tag of $6,552 for a years worth of medical expenses. Andrew Lisa contributed to the reporting for this article. Methodology: GOBankingRates determined the best cities on the West Coast (Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon and Washington) to retire for $3,200 or less a month. GOBankingRates first isolated all cities on the West Coast with a 2023 average monthly rent under $1,900 and a size rank below 1,000. GOBankingRates then used Sperlings BestPlaces to find the cost of living index for each listed city, looking at grocery, utilities, transportation and healthcare index scores. Next, GOBankingRates used data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics 2022 Consumer Expenditure Survey to find the annual expenditure amount for grocery (food at home), utilities, healthcare and transportation costs for people aged 65 and older in order to find how much a couple 65 and over would spend on necessities in each city on a monthly basis. GOBankingRates then added monthly housing, grocery, utilities, transportation and healthcare costs together to find where one could retire for $3,200 a month or less. In order for a city to be qualified for the study, the city had to have a livability score above 65, as sourced from AreaVibes. GOBankingRates scored and combined both livability and monthly necessities expenditures, with the lowest score being best, to determine final rankings. All data was collected and is up to date as of Sept. 14, 2023. More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 4 Best West Coast Cities To Retire on a Budget of $3,200 a Month Editor's note: Details revealed during the trial, including sexual violence, are included in this article. LEXINGTON Thomas McDowell was sentenced to life in prison for breaking into a Lexington County home to kidnap and kill 4-year-old Jessica Gutierrez, bringing a close to the 1986 case. On Feb. 8, after three days of testimony at the Lexington courthouse, the jury deliberated for about two hours and found the 63-year-old guilty of murder, kidnapping and first-degree burglary. Circuit Judge Debra McCaslin sentenced him to life in prison. "This is horrific," McCaslin said. "I believe the jury got it right." While the case is closed, her mother, Debra Gutierrez, said she has one more hope: to bring her baby back home. The decades-old case remained cold until an FBI deployment to Lexington County in September 2021. Around 50 agents paired with officers with the Lexington County Sheriff's Department to take a fresh look at the case. Staff from the South Carolina Attorney General's Office was on-site with FBI during the deployment, including Heather Weiss and Kinli Abee, who prosecuted the case. In January 2022, following the FBI's two-week deployment, McDowell was arrested on charges of kidnapping, murder and first-degree burglary. "It's a mother's worst nightmare and a nightmare that a sister does not wake up from," Abee, a prosecutor with the South Carolina Attorney General's Office, said during closing arguments. The prosecutor described the key evidence found on the scene: A fingerprint found on the front window frame. A cigarette pack and cigarette butt found on the property. The living room of the family's mobile home was in disarray the morning of June 6, 1986. The Charleston County School District will pay Anita Huggins a salary of $275,000 annually to serve as its new superintendent, according to a copy of the contract provided to The Post and Courier. It is the same salary contained in the contract of former Superintendent Eric Gallien. School board Chairman Keith Grybowski on Feb. 7 told The Post and Courier that he and Huggins had signed a contract the day prior. Some school board members said they were shown the contract but added that the board never discussed or voted on details contained in the document, including the salary. In addition to her salary, the three-year contract provides Huggins 20 days of paid leave, not including sick days. She also gets a $1,000 monthly car allowance, not including mileage reimbursement. She will also get annual raises comparable to those other administrators receive, the contract said. Huggins became acting superintendent in late September when the board suspended Gallien while an investigation was conducted into allegations that he had created a hostile work environment. In October, the board reached a deal to pay Gallien more than $350,000 to leave the job he had started on July 1. At the same meeting, it was reported that an investigator found Gallien had not created such a work environment. On Jan. 22, in a split 5-4 vote, the school board agreed to allow its attorney to negotiate a three-year contract with Huggins to become the permanent superintendent. The board members who voted against the move said they were opposed to the process, not necessarily to Huggins, a longtime district employee. GEORGETOWN A waterfront restaurant named after a seafood vendor that recently closed after more than 80 years has set an opening date. Led by Charleston-based Indigo Road Hospitality Group, The Independent will open inside the 56-room The George Hotel on Feb. 14. The hotel, at 615 Front St., is expected to open a few weeks later in March. Specializing in seafood with a full raw bar, The Independent will serve little neck clams, peel-and-eat shrimp, and oysters on the half shell alongside prepared small plates, chef specials, a la carte proteins and sides. Named after the shuttered Independent Seafood, the new restaurant is located steps away from Georgetown's Harborwalk, a wooden walkway spanning about four blocks at the rear of a row of Front Street businesses. The Independent and The George Hotel, which boasts 42 rooms with views of the water, has been years in the making, said Joe Keenan, managing member at Winyah Hospitality. His firm purchased the former Georgetown Times building on Front Street for $1.17 million in 2021. "We're real excited about both ventures," Keenan said. "We think it's going to be a wonderful asset to the city of Georgetown." Indigo Road Hospitality Group has a big presence in Charleston, along with Atlanta, Nashville, Washington, D.C., Raleigh and Charlotte. In January, Indigo Road President Steve Palmer and Kimball Brienza were selected as James Beard Award semifinalists in the Outstanding Restaurateur category for their work at King Street sushi spot O-Ku. Bar Tab is a recurring column in The Post and Courier Food section that highlights a locally made or sold adult beverage. The Ordinary's beverage manager, Christian Favier, spent a decade in New York City's restaurants and bars before coming to work in Charleston, a city he said is top-notch for its size when it comes to wine but a place he still sees in its infancy as far as cocktails go. He hopes he's part of that growth at the oyster bar off King Street, where rum reigns on the menu of a dozen drinks that range from classics to twists. Since stepping into his role, he's taken the tiki-heavy menu and turned it into a more modern rum menu, devoid of the culturally appropriating Polynesian imagery that was born out of the 1950s movement in California but still full of both old and new Caribbean flavors. At the top is the daiquiri, a drink Favier said if you don't know how to do right, you have no business in rum. "When we talk about kind of the quintessential representation of rum cocktails, the daiquiri is the standout," said Favier. The daiquiri here is simple: a house rum blend, fresh lime juice and sugar, shaken and stirred. But there's also a fun rotating version, dubbed The Ordinary Daiquiri. The one currently on the menu is the eighth rendition, thus Daiquiri #8, and it was my absolute favorite I tasted during the evening, made with El Dorado, brown butter, rosemary, maple and lime. Another highlight on the menu is the Bad John, made with Angostura bitters, salted lime, lemon and fluffy pineapple. It's inspired, like much of the menu, by a fresher take on Caribbean favorites and flavors. The pineapple is chopped and thrown in a juicer behind the counter, where it's turned into the drink's notable fluffy concoction that tastes light and airy. Robert Green, age 45, died on a Williamsburg County road last weekend. According to Highway Patrol, on March 16, at approximately 5:35am, a 2013 Dodge Challenger was driving south on County Line Road near the intersection of Country Club Road two miles outside of Andrews. The car struck a p Read morePedestrian killed on County Line Road CONWAY Jack Stawski just wanted a license plate. The 79-year-old Murrells Inlet retiree had sought a special S.C. plate for people with disabilities. He filled out the Department of Motor Vehicles application and asked his doctor to certify that he needed the accommodation. Yet the license plate never arrived. When he inquired why, he learned it was because his vehicle taxes hadnt been paid. So Stawski mailed his payment to the county three times. In each instance, the payment was returned with a message indicating the post office box for the Horry County Treasurers Office had been closed. This was screwy, he said. I felt like I was in a real loop here just trying to pay my taxes and to get a handicap license plate." This wasnt an isolated problem. And its only gotten worse. Since December, Horry officials have received so many complaints about returned tax payments that the county attorney sent a letter to the postal services inspector general on Feb. 7 requesting an investigation. Due to the Conway Post Office's repeated erroneous box closures and the USPS South Carolina District's ineffectual response, I respectfully request that the United States Postal Inspection Service conduct an independent investigation into the box closures to see if the Treasurer's Office and Horry County taxpayers were targeted maliciously, or if they have merely been victims of rife incompetence at USPS, county attorney David Jordan wrote. The repeated box closures have been unacceptable and Horry County deserves better. The tax trouble started around Dec. 20 when the Conway Post Office closed P.O. Box 1780, which receives vehicle tax payments. That prompted a flood of complaints from taxpayers who had received returned payments with notices telling them the box had been closed or their mail was undeliverable. The Post and Courier-led Uncovered newspaper network holds power to account in South Carolina. 1. The crook Before his downfall, Brantley Thomas III had reached the highest rungs of South Carolinas education ladder: He was chief financial officer for Berkeley County School District, a rapidly growing system with a $260 million budget. And he chaired a nonprofit that helped school districts across the state borrow hundreds of millions of dollars. He also led a secret life, bilking Berkeley County taxpayers out of at least $1.3 million to pay for cars, overseas travel and membership in the Carolina Yacht Club. That life crumbled in 2017 after a tip from a bank spawned state and federal investigations, which led to guilty pleas and prison time. Thomas recently finished his federal sentence and is now in the Manning Work Release Center, a minimum-security prison in Columbia. The state Department of Corrections said he is eligible for parole as early as next year. While Thomas crimes were well-chronicled, less attention has been paid to the companies and nonprofits he worked with. But a deeper look by The Post and Couriers Uncovered project opens a revealing window, one that sheds light on Thomas wide-ranging schemes, along with an obscure financial instrument school districts across South Carolina use to construct new buildings. Some of the most alarming claims are in lawsuits filed by the Berkeley County School District against HUB International, a Chicago-based insurance broker, and Compass Municipal Advisors, which helps districts across the country borrow money. The lawsuits allege links between Thomas and executives in those companies, claims that the executives and companies deny. Yet during a hearing for one lawsuit, a federal judge in Charleston noted: Im not prejudging anything just seems like that it takes two to tango, it takes two to commit fraud, one to take the bribe and one to give the bribe. The charges against Thomas represented one of South Carolinas largest public embezzlement cases, a shocking reminder of how a public official used his job as a personal cash register. The cases and their aftermath also highlight the challenges of rooting out corruption; no one else in Thomas orbit has been charged. The district settled some of its lawsuits, but the most explosive ones have yet to go before a jury. As a result, seven years after FBI agents began investigating Thomas schemes, questions linger. How did he get away with the crimes for so long? And given his long tango with taxpayers money, did Thomas have any dance partners? 2. The opportunity Berkeley County once was a rural area of small towns defined by Lake Moultrie and the pinelands of Francis Marion National Forest. But in the 1990s, waves of growth from the Charleston metro area spilled into the county, doubling its population in 25 years and creating constant pressure to build new schools. In 1992, Brantley Thomas landed a job as comptroller in this rapidly growing district. Over time, he worked his way into positions of even more responsibility, becoming director of finance and then chief financial officer. Although he worked in Berkeley County, his roots were planted more deeply in Charleston, where he attended the private Porter-Gaud School and his father was prominent in downtown civic group circles. White-collar crime typically requires three things: a position that gives you access to other peoples money; an economic or psychological void that's filled by stealing; and a constant stream of self-justification to continue the thefts. In criminology circles, this is called the fraud triangle. In Berkeley County, Thomas role as the districts financial chief gave him broad discretion over other peoples money. He took advantage of this opportunity as early as Sept. 11, 2001, the day of the 9/11 terror attacks, when he pocketed $8,318 from a University of South Carolina transaction. As with that crime, his most lucrative criminal schemes involved rebates. Thomas would first direct the district to overpay vendors; when those vendors realized they had been paid too much, they wrote checks back to the district. Thomas then funneled those rebates into his personal accounts. The rebate checks were hardly a secret. The district's media team touted them as examples of how the school system kept tabs on taxpayers' money. But these stolen rebates added up over time, to the tune of more than $450,000. All this helped Thomas buy jewelry and a membership at the Carolina Yacht Club. He funneled taxpayers' money to pay off car loans and jet to the Cayman Islands. His salary of $130,000 made him among the district's highest-paid employees, and he also collected another $62,000 a year from a pension, his wife said during their divorce proceedings. But it wasn't enough. "Brantley has always been a heavy drinker and seemingly overwhelmed by his work for the Berkeley County School District," his then-wife, Debra Gallagher, said in an affidavit in their divorce case. "He would tell me he was working when he was really drinking with his friends at the Carolina Yacht Club." In 2016, his behavior grew worse, she said in the affidavit. He was deeply dissatisfied with his work and hunting for new jobs. "It seemed like he was spending more time at the Carolina Yacht Club than at his office. He was also drinking more bourbon every day. He began complaining of stomach issues." Then, on Feb. 6, 2017, "my world seemed to fall apart," her affidavit said. "When I got home, Brantley told me that the FBI and SLED had been at the house because he had taken some checks over the past few years and put them in his account." In another court document, she said, "Our lives have been upended." In the background, the district's lawyer, Josh Whitley, heard that BCSD might be storing financial records in a long-closed school building in Bonneau. When he arrived at the school, he discovered hundreds of boxes stretching back decades. These records were supposed to have been destroyed but weren't, Whitley told The Post and Courier. "We found financial records from the day Mr. Thomas was hired." Whitley contacted the S.C. attorney general. Soon, agents with the State Law Enforcement Division were on the case. "It was from those boxes that the entire case was proved," Whitley said. As for Thomas, he seemed to recognize he was in a downward spiral, saying in an affidavit for his divorce, I turn 61 on Nov 14th and presently suffer from severe depression and anxiety There is simply no way I can make amends for (the) position I have put our family in. As investigators combed through financial records, they also noticed 16 deposits into Thomas personal bank accounts. Each deposit was $2,000. And they came from Stanley Pokorney, executive vice president of HUB International, the districts insurance broker. 3. Lack and justification Federal prosecutors called the contributions kickbacks during Thomas guilty plea but didnt name the broker. Lawyers for Berkeley County School District did, however, filing a lawsuit in 2018 against HUB International and Pokorney. The lawsuit alleged that under Thomas, the district spent "tens of millions of dollars in unnecessary, duplicative premiums and sham consulting fees," money that could have been used to hire new teachers and buy student supplies. One proposal insured against employee dishonesty. The broker allegedly arranged for massages for school officials during district-related business trips. Of course, there is no charge, said an email from one of Pokorney's colleagues. Pokorney knew he was funneling rebate money into his personal account, Thomas later said in a deposition. "I would hear comments like, you don't have to worry, we'll protect you. It's between us. No one will find out." Pokorney denied the districts allegation in court papers. His attorney declined to comment, and Pokorney did not respond to requests for comment. In September 2020, the district told HUB it would dismiss the suit for $12 million, but legal maneuvers on both sides continued. A month later, the district dismissed Pokorney from its lawsuit without explanation. HUB demanded that the case be settled by an arbitrator, a move that would take the allegations out of a jurys hands. This demand led in 2021 to a nonjury trial before U.S. District Judge David C. Norton in Charleston. The trial was about whether the case should go before an arbitrator, but it also included eye-opening testimony from Pokorney about his payments to Thomas and his longtime friend's psyche. *** Pokorney testified that the district hired him in 1996. At the time, the Berkeley school system insured itself through the government-run Insurance Reserve Fund. But Pokorney thought the district could save money with private insurers, which is the route the district decided to take. Pokorney testified that he and Thomas grew close over time. My wife and I considered Brantley almost like a family member, certainly one of my best, best, best friends, Pokorney told the court. He referred to me as his big brother. And it was not untypical with Brantley or very close friends for a spiritual program that Im in to refer to each other as brothers and say, 'Love you brother.' Thomas also confided in him about his jobs demands, Pokorney testified. He referred to the school board members as snakes. Thomas complained to him that he would never be able to afford to send his daughter to college on his salary. Pokorney said he "made the offer to contribute an occasional $2,000 to her 529 (college fund), which he said he would set up. This prompted heated questions from Dick Harpootlian, one of the districts lawyers. Sir, you were giving $4,000 to $6,000, by your own admission, per year, to the person who facilitates you getting this (insurance) business. And that never crossed your mind that would be inappropriate? Harpootlian asked. No, Pokorney testified. I feel giving toward education is imperative. Later, Harpootlian queried, Were you aware of the fact that he'd already funded her college through an inheritance through his father? No, Pokorney said. Sure, Harpootlian continued, this is your brother. The guy you love. The guy you talk to as if he is your brother. Y'all never talked about that? No, Pokorney answered. We talked about marriage infidelity, and we talked about addiction problems. And we talked about porn on a computer and other things. But no, I did not ask him how her 529 (college fund) was performing. Later, Harpootlian referenced Thomas testimony in a deposition that he thought the $2,000 checks were bribes. He's now said you were bribing him? Do you understand that? Pokorney: Yeah. He's a sociopath, so I don't put much credibility in what Brantley Thomas would say. Harpootlian: So birds of a feather, do they fly together? At that point, Norton interceded. But at the trials conclusion, the judge showed no sympathy for Pokorneys explanations. In a written order, he sided with Berkeley County School District and denied HUBs attempt to send the case to an arbitrator. About Pokorney, Norton wrote: In sum, the court finds that Stan Pokorney knew of Thomass illegal activities well prior to 2017, and that he sent Thomas bribes to steer the Districts business to (the districts insurance brokers). The lawsuit against HUB is still working its way through the courts. But its just one fight in a much larger legal war. Another lawsuit cast a spotlight on SCAGO, an obscure nonprofit with a big say in how districts across South Carolina build their schools. 4. High finance Like most homeowners, school systems typically cant afford to build new buildings out of their operating budgets or savings. So most borrow money in the form of bonds, paying them off over long periods. But bond issues require reams of paperwork and expensive legal expertise. This can put smaller districts in a bind; they often dont need to borrow as much as larger districts, but they still must do all the required legal and financial legwork. Enter SCAGO. In 2002, local school officials worked with what became Compass Municipal Advisors to create a nonprofit called SCAGO, short for South Carolina Association of Governmental Organizations. The SCAGO process works like this: Districts sell bonds to SCAGO. Then, with the help of Compass Municipal Advisors, SCAGO pools money into a larger financial instrument and sells it on the open market. SCAGO and Compass then distribute the proceeds to districts. Districts lined up to use this tool, and SCAGO and Compass raised hundreds of millions of dollars. Brantley Thomas was SCAGO's longtime chairman. Thomas also milked the nonprofit as part of his rebate schemes, prosecutors detailed. In all, SCAGO sent Berkeley County School District more than $130,000 in rebate checks, money that Thomas diverted into his personal accounts. In its lawsuit, the district alleged that Compass executive Michael Gallagher hand-delivered checks to Thomas. At the time, Gallagher also was Thomas brother-in-law. Gallagher did not respond to requests for comment, but in an affidavit for his sister's divorce case, he said he'd known Thomas since 1994 when he and his sister began dating. Gallagher said that Thomas' role in Berkeley County and as head of SCAGO put him in "very well-respected positions locally and across the Southeast." But news that the FBI and SLED were investigating, Gallagher said, "came as quite a shock and was unexpected as it seemed out of character for a person we thought we knew." The districts lawsuit painted a different picture, alleging that SCAGO, under Thomas and Compass, inappropriately charged the district for junkets to New York City. These trips included expensive hotels, first-class airfares and Broadway shows. The lawsuit said those costs were then added to bond issuances essentially putting those expenses on the taxpayers backs. Another allegation said that Compass officials helped orchestrate scholarships for children of school finance officials. In court filings, attorneys for SCAGO denied the districts allegations of wrongdoing. Gallagher denied in court papers that he hand-delivered the checks. Compass and SCAGO also denied that the district was charged for junkets or that it financed scholarships to children of financial officers. In legal filings, attorneys for Compass and its executives argued that the district had done a thorough investigation into Thomas and knew that Compass did not, and has not, converted any (of the districts) property. They said the district instead received significant monetary benefit from Gallaghers work as a financial adviser, that the lawsuits claims were unfounded and unwarranted and designed to harass Gallagher. Attorneys argued that the claims were frivolous and should be tossed out. As with the HUB lawsuit, the claims against Compass and SCAGO are still winding their way through the courts. Meanwhile, another judicial proceeding, a secret one, added another wrinkle. 5. Takeaways In 2020, Deborah Barbier, an attorney for Stanley Pokorney, alleged that Josh Whitley, one of the district's lawyers, was working with the state Grand Jury. Barbier argued it was wrong to use the grand jury process to further a lawsuit. But state and federal judges found Whitley had done nothing wrong. In an interview, Creighton Waters, a prosecutor for the S.C. Attorney General's Office, said legal safeguards were in place to protect the integrity of the state grand jury process. "The big lesson we learned from this was the effectiveness of the state grand jury," Waters said. "We were able to go way back with historical records to put together a longstanding course of embezzlement conduct that otherwise would have gone undetected." Its unclear what happened to the grand jury investigation because those proceedings are secret. More clear is that seven years after federal and state investigators got their first tip, the Brantley Thomas scandal continues to reverberate in the courts and among the people and institutions formerly in his orbit. Nathan Williams, the federal prosecutor in the Thomas case, is now in private practice. It was one of those things that started small, got bigger, went over a long period of time because there werent a lot of internal controls to detect it, Williams told The Post and Courier. The case itself wasnt a particularly sophisticated form of embezzlement, he said. And he wasnt surprised when Thomas began confirming what happened to federal and state agents. People who go down that path of deception often find its a difficult thing to maintain over a long time that someday, somebody will find out. I dont think (Thomas) was surprised when he finally got that phone call. But he said Thomas value as a government witness in other cases took a hit in 2018. Thats when Thomas was arrested again. While on bail, he took a job with Jackson Davenport, a downtown eyecare store, and promptly stole $36,000. His credibility went out the window, Williams said. The districts lawsuits have generated a few settlements, including nearly $823,000 from a firm that advised the district under Thomas. After its first settlement, the board used part of the proceeds to build playgrounds for children with special needs, a move that Whitley said was one of the highlights of his career. Meanwhile, the Berkeley County School District fired its auditors and financial advisors, then hired new ones. All of this began with a deeply broken man, placed in a position of public trust with few controls, who decided to steal to fill an empty space in his life and then found ways to rationalize it year after year until that triangle of deception finally collapsed. When I was in third grade, my teacher had a vegetable tasting day for us. We each brought in a vegetable from home and shared it with our classmates. I remember coming home, excited, and announcing to my mother that I had fallen in love with rutabaga. After a startled moment or two, she sm Read moreStevens: For the love of rutabaga and our children Three Ocean County companies that owe a total of $135,000 in penalties to the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development for failing to provide adequate workers' compensation coverage have been added to a public database designed to call attention to the problem, the department said Thursday. Advanced Closets LLC in Toms River; Dope Musik Ent. LLC in Toms River; and Absolute Sprinkler & Piping Inc. in Brick also are prohibited from public contracts with the state, county and local governments until the fines are paid, the department said. The companies were among 19 businesses statewide that were added to the Workplace Accountability in Labor List, known as the WALL. The businesses have failed to pay in total nearly $932,000 in penalties, and have had multiple opportunities to pay or appeal their assessment, the department said. The WALL was enacted by the state Legislature in 2020 to give the Labor Department a tool to enforce state laws designed to combat worker misclassification and exploitation. Businesses receive letters warning that their companys name will be posted to The WALL unless they resolve their outstanding liabilities. They are given 20 days from when they receive the notice to pay in full or challenge the decision. Previous companies named: Toms River contractor banned from NJ contracts over labor laws; see who else made the list A man who answered the phone at Advanced Closets declined to comment. Officials from Dope Musik and Absolute Sprinkler couldn't be reached for comment late Thursday. All three companies were fined $45,000 each for violations of the state's Workers' Compensation Law, according to the Labor Department. New Jersey companies are required to have Workers' Compensation insurance to cover employees who are injured on the job. They also are required to post notice in the workplace that they have coverage; they need to provide information to employees when they are hired about the benefit, who to report an injury to, and where to go for medical treatment if they are injured on the job. Story continues The WALL now has 120 businesses that collectively owe $13.5 million, the department said. These companies too: Three Shore contractors who owe $220K to workers added to NJ's public shaming labor wall Other Monmouth and Ocean County companies that were previously added to the list: Dar's Staffing LLC, Little Egg Harbor, owes $97,635 for violations of the state's wage and hour laws. Fresh Look Detailing, Barnegat, owes $35,000 for violations of the state's worker's compensation law. Jay's Daycare LLC, Neptune, owes $13,357 for violations of the state's wage and hour law and earned sick leave law. Lane Mechanical Heating and Cooling LLC, Middletown, owes $65,000 for violations of the state's wage and hour laws. Medex Health Care Services Inc., with offices in Toms River and Wall, owes $171,876 for violations of the state's unemployment compensation law, temporary disability benefits law and family temporary disability leave law. Premier Security and Electronics Inc., Aberdeen, owes $153,658 for violations of the state's wage and hour laws. Springfield Woodwork Corp., which has an office in Jackson, owes $289,592 for violations of the state's unemployment compensation law, temporary disability benefits law, and family temporary disability leave law. Two River Interiors LLC, Atlantic Highlands, owes $45,000 for violations of the state's worker's compensation law. Vortechx Applied Technologies LLC, Middletown, owes $58,886 for violations of the state's wage and hour laws. R.A. Florio Building Contractors Inc., Toms River, owes $39,556 for violations of unemployment compensation law, the temporary disability benefits law and the family temporary disability leave law Michael L. Diamond is a business reporter who has been writing about the New Jersey economy and health care industry for more than 20 years. He can be reached at mdiamond@gannettnj.com. This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Ocean County companies banned from NJ contracts over unpaid fines Happy Sunshine Week indeed. As we hope youve noticed, our newsroom is spending the week recounting successes its had using South Carolinas Freedom of Information Act to illumine your understanding of what your government is doing on your behalf, in your name and with your tax dollars. Read moreEditorial: SC judges support sunshine whenever they get a chance. They need more chances. BAMBERG Three weeks before Nikki Haley told the world she was running for president, she stopped by Rusty and Paula's Restaurant, a country buffet in Bamberg to tell her hometown first. Rusty and Paula's (now closed due to damage from a recent tornado) is the heartbeat of Bamberg, an old railroad town south of Orangeburg in the middle of South Carolina farm country. As Haley likes to tell it, she grew up in a town with "2,500 people, two stoplights and you couldn't think about doing something wrong without somebody telling your mom." Sharon Carter, chairwoman of Bamberg County's Republican Party, was thrilled to hear Bamberg's hometown hero was running for president. Carter and Haley attended the same elementary and middle school, and they bought their prom dresses at the same place: the Haley family store Exotica, where all the girls shopped. But even with Haley's hometown roots, it's unlikely she'll win many votes in Bamberg, Carter said even from those who once bought their prom dresses from her family. Bamberg is one of the few deep-blue counties in the state. But the few Republicans here tend to prefer Haley's opponent Donald Trump. Haley's problem isn't just in Bamberg. Polling from Monmouth College released Feb. 1 shows the former South Carolina governor is doing worse among women in South Carolina's rural counties, where she's behind by a little over 30 points compared to 20 points in the state's metro counties data that reflects a larger trend that could spell trouble for her presidential bid. Her lack of support reflects a political shift in the Republican Party, analysts say. Many of South Carolina's rural female voters are drawn to Trump's anti-establishment rhetoric and conservative track record even as they dismiss his mistreatment of women. Still more mistrust Haley, viewing her as an entrenched politician who flip-flops on issues. Yanbu Aramco Sinopec Refining Company (Yasref) has won the Operations and Maintenance Initiative of the Year - Saudi Arabia and the People Development Initiative of the Year - Saudi Arabia awards at the Asian Oil and Gas Awards 2023. The prestigious awards programme recognises exceptional initiatives in the oil and gas industry in Asia. A full-conversion refinery, Yasref has remained steadfast in the pursuit of sustainable excellence. Driven by business results and recognised performance as a pace-setter within the refining industry, the companys excellence journey has sparked curiosity amongst other players since it was operationalised, a release said. Operational excellence The company was operational in 2015 and swiftly established an operational excellence office aimed at developing organisational capabilities, creating a sustainable improvement, and ensuring Yasref refinery processes, and systems are amongst the best in the world through leveraging the latest technologies and empowering and developing its human capital. In 2021, Yasref adapted the business transformation as a continuous improvement hub for the idea generation and review process, and within a very short period, it had become the climax of transformational improvements generating significant value and engaging a vast number of young employees. Through hands-on governance and empowerment for Yasref employees, extraordinary results were achieved with significant financial returns, improved work efficiency and productivity, and transformed cultural and people development. The expected business transformation baseline benefits have doubled within a 2-year span since the inception of the programme and less than 10 years since its operation. A growing number of operational transformation ideas are generated throughout the year, including the extraordinary efforts to maximise diesel production by blending unconverted oil into finished diesel products via an innovative approach to upgrade products whilst maintaining optimum quality. The idea and the marginal improvements are considered extraordinary and agile to maximise the refinery profitability with low-scale capex with results that are unmatched with similar configuration refineries globally. Joins Asian power community Flawless governance, change management techniques, and leadership commitment were key ingredients in developing Yasrefs people, stimulating ideas where team collaboration, determination, and full engagement were witnessed in reconciliatory platforms standardising the company's continuous improvement process. Transformation history and progress have become part of the company DNA and considered as one of the principles where HR, maintenance, and other business functions have leveraged the governance style to achieve both functional and administration of their departments, the release said. Yasref eyes automation and digitalisation as key principles of operational excellence and has advanced with in-house solutions to digitalise its processes, with Yasref's resources and personnel leading the change. This allows information, technology, people, and processes to experience an innovative shift towards agility and value creation for Yasref Excellence. This was demonstrated with more than 20 automation applications made in-house to improve the efficiencies of processes within the company. The operational excellence framework encompassing all business functions is integrated in a way to help facilitate value generation and avail the opportunity to adjust and change utilising the PDCA Plan, Do, Check, and Adjust. With the objectives set to generate at least 1-3% of company income and benefits on an annual basis in a span of 3 years with the engagement of a workforce experienced less than 10 years with field and engineering background to advance a very pragmatic and committed excellence objectives. --TradeArabia News Service In this article, we will look at the 30 countries with the happiest workers in the world. We have also discussed two companies with the happiest workers. If you want to skip our detailed analysis, head straight to the 10 Countries With The Happiest Workers in The World. Employers and workers are in a tug-of-war over the future of work-life balance, with diverging priorities and preferences becoming increasingly apparent. A study by Randstad revealed that while 56% of workers still identify as ambitious, nearly half (47%) are now more interested in achieving balance and belonging than climbing the career ladder. Flexibility and mental health support are becoming paramount, with 37% of employees willing to quit if asked to spend more time in the office, and 39% insisting on the non-negotiability of remote work. Despite some companies' push for a return to the office, the landscape of work arrangements remains in flux. High-paying remote and hybrid job opportunities have decreased, while in-person postings have surged. Yet, most companies are maintaining hybrid work models, with only 4% of US CEOs prioritizing full-time office returns. According to a Ford survey conducted among 16,086 employees across 16 countries, including France, the USA, Brazil, and China, a staggering 52% of respondents would be willing to accept a 20% pay cut for a better work-life balance. Notably, younger generations are more inclined to make this trade-off compared to older counterparts. While 80% express commitment to their current jobs, three-quarters believe it's unwise to work in roles inducing daily stress. Companies increasingly recognize the importance of work-life balance, implementing measures like remote work and the four-day week. Furthermore, 60% of respondents advocate for artificial intelligence integration to better manage personal and professional responsibilities, foreseeing its potential impact on employee well-being. According to Utilitybidder, SAP SE (NYSE:SAP) and Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) are two of top companies with the happiest employees in 2024, with a commendable score of 4.4 each. Story continues Additionally, SAP SE (NYSE:SAP) garnered a higher rating on Glassdoor, achieving a notable 4.5 out of 5, compared to a slightly lower score of 4.3 on Indeed. Notably, SAP SE (NYSE:SAP), holds the distinction of being the largest non-American multinational technology company. With an array of different services, including healthcare coverage, retirement plans, and more, SAP SE (NYSE:SAP) goes beyond the basics to provide a comprehensive package. The company's commitment to employee well-being is evident in its global and local benefit options, aiming to support a healthy work-life balance. Moreover, SAP SE (NYSE:SAP) dedication to diversity and inclusion is reflected in its Employee Network Groups (ENGs) that promotes a sense of belonging and community among employees worldwide. In 2022 alone, SAP SE (NYSE:SAP) employees collectively dedicated over 117,000 volunteer hours to various causes. On the other hand, on Glassdoor, Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) achieved a score of 4.5 from its reviewers, compared to 4.3 on Indeed. However, it is also interesting to note how in 2023, Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) implemented major cost-cutting measures, aiming for "multi-year" savings. The company reduced employee perks like fitness classes and transportation programs due to shifting work patterns. Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) also said they plan to optimize equipment usage by pausing laptop refreshes and providing Chromebooks by default, while tightening expense policies for accessories. Notably, some office supplies like staplers and tape were also no longer provided. 30 Countries With The Happiest Workers in The World Yuganov Konstantin/Shutterstock.com Our Methodology To list the countries with the happiest workers in the world, we have relied on 3 indexes. Firstly, we have looked at Remotes Global Life-Work Balance Index. Secondly, we analyzed the Utlitybidders list of the countries with the happiest workers. Lastly, we utilized Entrepreneurs infographic about the countries with the happiest workers. We have employed the first two indexes primarily but in cases where one country is present in the first but absent from the second, we utilized the third index. The ranking of the work-life balance index along with the happiness ranking has been averaged to obtain an average rank. The list is now presented in ascending order. Please note that in cases where two or three countries share a similar average rank, country with a higher happiness score was ranked higher. Here is a list of countries with the happiest workers in the world 30. Turkey Work-Life Balance: 45 Happiness: 35 Average Rank: 40 Turkey is situated in Asia and has a population of approximately 85,674,652. The country scores 42.7 on the Life-Work Balance Index. Statutory annual leave is 66.7 days, while the minimum statutory sick pay percentage is 6.52%. Turkey operates a universal public-private insurance system which ensures healthcare coverage. The Happiness Index is 29.1, and the average hours worked per week is 38. 29. Malaysia Work-Life Balance: 59 Happiness: 13 Average Rank: 36 The recent survey by Randstad Malaysia reveals that 50% of working Malaysians are ready to quit for better work-life balance, with 16% more returning to fully office-based work in 2023 compared to the previous year. Flexible working options are valued by 96% of respondents, while non-monetary benefits are crucial for 87%. 28. United States Work-Life Balance: 54 Happiness: 6 Average Rank: 30 In the US, employees work an average of 1,750 hours annually which surpasses counterparts in the UK, France, and Australia. While the work life baalnce may not be so great but owing to the high salaries in the country, employees tend to be happy. It is one of the best places to live and work. 27. United Arab Emirates Work-Life Balance: 49 Happiness: 10 Average Rank: 29.5 In the UAE, 72% of residents affirm a safe environment for children. Work-life balance is key, with 75% prioritizing it, and 60% receiving employer support. Maternity benefits surpass global standards in the UAE, offering 9 weeks' full pay in Dubai. It is one of the countries with highest job satisfaction. 26. Mexico Work-Life Balance: 10 Happiness: 48 Average Rank: 29 Mexico implemented a 20% raise in its minimum wage effective January 1, 2023 increasing it to 207.44 pesos ($11.54) per day from the previous $172.87. In the Free Zone of the Northern Border, the wage rose to 312.41 pesos ($17.38) per day from 260.34 pesos. This affected about 6.4 million workers, constituting a third of Mexico's labor force. 25. Romania Work-Life Balance: 29 Happiness: 29 Average Rank: 29 In Romania, the 2024 Randstad Workmonitor reveals that 96% of employees prioritize work-life balance and pay, with job security at 93%. Mental health support and annual leave days are crucial for 88% and 87% respectively, while health insurance and flexible working hours stand at 87% and 84%. 24. Poland Work-Life Balance: 26 Happiness: 30 Average Rank: 28 With an average of 34.3 hours worked per week, it has a moderate workload. Moreover, Poland operates a universal public insurance system to support its citizens' healthcare needs. JPMorgan Chase & Co (NYSE:JPM) operates in the heart of Poland with their office in Warsaw. 23. Hungary Work-Life Balance: 28 Happiness: 26 Average Rank: 27 Hungary excels in work-life balance and social connections, with 70% of people aged 15 to 64 employed. The average household net-adjusted disposable income per capita stands at $21,026 annually. However, only 1% of Hungarian employees work very long hours, contrasting sharply with the OECD's 10% average. It is one of the happiest places to work. 22. Portugal Work-Life Balance: 24 Happiness: 27 Average Rank: 25.5 Portugal is spearheading a four-day workweek initiative, joining the global trend to improve work-life balance. The not-for-profit organization 4 Day Week Global has introduced this innovative approach, with the idea that employees work 80% of their regular hours but still receive full pay and maintain productivity targets. 21. Greece Work-Life Balance: 20 Happiness: 23 Average Rank: 21.5 In Greece, the majority of both men and women benefit from regular working hours as 96% of employees maintain a balanced work-life schedule. The country also houses the office of JPMorgan Chase & Co (NYSE:JPM). 20. Czech Republic Work-Life Balance: 23 Happiness: 20 Average Rank: 21.5 In the Czech Republic, 95% of employees enjoy regular working hours, which is better than the OECD average of 90%. It is one of the countries with the best work-life balance in the world. 19. Switzerland Work-Life Balance: 34 Happiness: 9 Average Rank: 21.5 With stable employment rates, especially among men, and a low prevalence of long working hours, Switzerland has a strong work-life balance. The country has high literacy rates, particularly in upper secondary education, with above-average academic performance, where girls often outshine boys. It is one of the Best Countries To Work And Make The Most Amount of Money. 18. Italy Work-Life Balance: 22 Happiness: 19 Average Rank: 20.5 Italy has a resilient economy with an average household net-adjusted disposable income per capita of $29,431. While 58% of individuals aged 15 to 64 are employed, the country promotes gender equality with 67% of men and 49% of women in paid work. Moreover, only 3% of employees have very long work hours. 17. South Africa Work-Life Balance: 18 Happiness: 20 Average Rank: 19 With an index score of 57.78, South Africa stands out as a beacon of work-life balance in Africa, while dealing with economic challenges. Through progressive policies and stable frameworks, the country prioritizes the holistic well-being of its people. 16. Colombia Work-Life Balance: 25 Happiness: 11 Average Rank: 18 In Colombia, 76% of employees enjoy reasonable working hours in paid work, well below the OECD average of 90%. Moreover, 83% of women benefit from balanced work hours, compared to 72% of men. It is one of the 30 Countries with Best Work-Life Balance in the World. 15. Ireland Work-Life Balance: 21 Happiness: 12 Average Rank: 16.5 Ireland has some of the happiest workers globally due to several factors. With a GDP growth rate increased to 3.4% in 2020, Ireland has the fastest-growing economy in Europe. Its stable jobs market attracts talent, offering above-average salaries, with consistent rises in average weekly earnings. Moreover, the country's commitment to work-life balance is evident through the legal entitlement to 20 paid holidays annually and recent legislation guaranteeing the right to disconnect outside working hours. It is one of the happiest English speaking countries in the world. 14. Belgium Work-Life Balance: 14 Happiness: 11 Average Rank: 12.5 Belgium has implemented a four-day workweek from November 2023, allowing employees to compress full-time hours into fewer days without salary reduction. Prime Minister Alexander de Croo aims to enhance labor market flexibility and improve work-life balance. 13. Austria Work-Life Balance: 17 Happiness: 5 Average Rank: 11 Austrian employees enjoy a generous allocation of paid leave, fostering a healthy work-life balance. With 25 paid leave days annually, workers relish ample opportunities for rejuvenation and leisure pursuits. Remarkably, after 25 years of dedicated service, this leave is increased to 30 paid leave days. It is one of the top 10 countries with the happiest workers in the world. 12. Germany Work-Life Balance: 12 Happiness: 8 Average Rank: 10 In Germany, the average weekly working hours for all employed persons in 2022 were 34.7 hours. Full-time employees worked 40.4 hours per week, while part-time employees worked 20.8 hours per week. Germany is one of the happiest countries in the world. 11. Spain Work-Life Balance: 2 Happiness: 17 Average Rank: 9.5 Spanish people typically work an average of 36 hours per week, starting around 10 a.m. and often leaving around 8:00-8:30 p.m. Although their workday may seem long, they often enjoy extended lunch breaks. Click here to see the 10 Countries With The Happiest Workers in The World. Suggested Articles: Disclosure: None. 30 Countries With The Happiest Workers in The World is originally published on Insider Monkey. PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-09 18:45:32 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 517 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Middle school students from Atlanta's Ron Clark Academy present new product ideas in unique competitionNORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / February 9, 2024 / Bath & Body WorksStudents from the Ron Clark Academy's Amazing Shake competition stand alongside the Bath & Body Works panel of judges. Bath & Body Works fragrance, merchandising and product packaging teams heard 12 unique presentations during the competition.Picture this: 12 students ages 11 to 14 are given an assignment. In less than 24 hours, fly to New York City and present a unique idea to the product experts at one of the world's leading personal care and home fragrance brands. That's what happened earlier this week when Bath & Body Works partnered with the Ron Clark Academy's Amazing Shake.The Ron Clark Academy's Amazing Shake is an exciting and dynamic competition that rallies leaders and role models together to teach students about professional skills for success. Elementary and middle school students learn and develop professional qualities - from the mechanics of a proper handshake to how to "work the room"- so they can present themselves effectively for opportunities today and in the future. The Ron Clark Academy is a non-profit middle school in Atlanta, Georgia that is internationally recognized for its success in creating a loving, dynamic learning environment that promotes academic excellence and fosters leadership. The competition began in 2011 and today competitions are held across the country with the winners of the event competing in the Global Amazing Shake in March.Bath & Body Works invited the Amazing Shake students to their NYC offices and challenged them to pitch product ideas which would bring something new and refreshing to the brand. The idea needed to capture the interest and excitement of potential customers while taking into account market data and profitability.One by one, students entered a large conference room on their own and stood in front of a panel of Bath & Body Works fragrance and product experts. Armed with a slide deck, they had just three minutes to sell their idea. Then, they were subject to a lightning round of questions from the Bath & Body Works judges.After 12 impressive presentations, the Bath & Body Works team chose Ron Clark Academy student Adrienne Prater as the challenge's winner. Under wraps for now, Prater's idea was one-of-a-kind, innovative and something never before offered in Bath & Body Works' extensive fragrance-first portfolio."We were proud to partner with the Ron Clark Academy on the Amazing Shake," says Bath & Body Works Chief Diversity Officer Kelie Charles. "We're committed to inspiring the next generation and demonstrating everything that's possible in fragrance. Each student presentation was so inspiring, and the entire team was truly impressed with the creativity, extensive research and presentation skills of these students. Who knows, there may be a collaboration in the future." Congrats to all the students who brought their talents to the Bath & Body Works team. We can't wait to see what they accomplish next.View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Bath & Body Works on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info: Spokesperson: Bath & Body WorksWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/bath-body-works Email: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: Bath & Body Works PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-09 02:07:04 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 907 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 The Review Growth Index (RGI) by Doctor Marketing, MD releases the researched list of Top Rated Plastic Surgery Practices in Phoenix, Arizona after detailed analysis of over 7,300+ online patient Google Reviews given to 122 medical practices.PHOENIX, AZ / ACCESSWIRE / February 8, 2023 / Phoenix has some of the best plastic surgeons in the Southwest. The Review Growth Index (RGI) by Doctor Marketing, MD has identified which Phoenix cosmetic practices made the list for the first quarter(Q1) of 2024. After compiling and analyzing data from over 122 medical practices and 7,326 online Google Reviews, the top rated Plastic Surgery and Cosmetic Surgery Clinics in Phoenix stand out for their patient satisfaction rating and number of online reviews. The top ten surgical practices account for 3,689 Google Reviews and 50.35% percent of all plastic surgery reviews online for Phoenix plastic surgeons. With an average of over 368.9 patient reviews per practice, these surgeons display surgical excellence that sets them apart from the rest. Phoenix patients share their positive cosmetic experiences from the thousands of reviews. For those consumers who want top cosmetic enhancements in the Phoenix metropolitan area, these top practices represent the best of the best for Phoenix residents (Phoenicians) to choose from.Phoenix's Top Rated Plastic Surgeons , the best-rated in Phoenix, Arizona. There were fourteen plastic surgeons from the Top Rated Plastic Surgery Practices in Phoenix for Q1 of 2024. Data was compiled by the Review Growth Index (RGI) and is based on the number of Google Reviews received as of 11/30/23. Image Credit: Respective Phoenix Plastic Surgeons. Illustration by: Doctor Marketing, MD."We've compiled extensive Google Review data from 122 plastic surgeons and cosmetic surgery practices in Phoenix, AZ. The Top RatedBest Plastic Surgery Clinics in Phoenixare made up of 14 of thebest Phoenix plastic surgeonsthat received a combined 3,689 patient reviews. Doctor Marketing, MD gives recognition to those Phoenix area medical practices and doctors for their achievements in generating the highest number of patient reviews and ratings based on patient satisfaction and quality of care," said Marty Stewart, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of Doctor Marketing, MD, a leading digital agency that doescontent marketing for plastic surgeons , and the Review Growth Index (RGI).Top Ranked Plastic Surgeons and Cosmetic Practices in Phoenix, ArizonaHere are the top ranked best plastic surgeons in Phoenix, AZ (based on number of patient Google Reviews):John J. Corey Aesthetic Plastic Surgery: 554 Reviews / 4.9 Rating-Dr. John CoreyDr. William M. Jacobsen Plastic Surgery: 478 Reviews / 4.8 Rating-Dr. William JacobsenArizona Ocular and Facial Plastic Surgery: 466 Reviews / 4.9 Rating-Dr. Dustin HeringerArizona Facial Plastics: 424 Reviews / 4.7 Rating-Dr. Farhan TaghizadehElite Plastic Surgery: 415 Reviews / 4.7 Rating-Dr. Rozbeh Torabi-Dr. Radbeh TorabiGawley Plastic Surgery: 311 Reviews / 4.9 Rating-Dr. Bryan Gawley-Dr. Jennifer GeogheganHobgood Facial Plastic Surgery: 284 Reviews / 4.9 Rating-Dr. Todd HobgoodNatural Results Plastic Surgery: 275 Reviews / 4.9 Rating-Dr. Carlos Mata-Dr. Martin BenjaminGuerra Plastic Surgery Center: 275 Reviews / 4.7 Rating-Dr. Aldo Guerra-Dr. Scott OgleyAdmireMD Plastic Surgery + Skin Clinic: 207 Reviews / 4.9 Rating-Dr. Anthony AdmireReview Growth Index (RGI) List of Best Rated Plastic Surgeons in Phoenix, Arizona for Q1 of 2024For the first quarter (Q1) of 2024, Google Review data was compiled through November 30th, 2023 to determine the top best rankings for Phoenix, Arizona (AZ).Here is the in-depth data snapshot of the Best Phoenix Plastic Surgeons compiled by the Doctor Marketing, MD Review Growth Index (RGI):124 total plastic surgeons and cosmetic practices in Phoenix, Arizona were identified via Google My Business (GMB) profiles and Google Map listings for Phoenix. 122 plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery practices/clinics remained after removing duplicates. (Note: Some doctors have both a private practice under their own name, and are part of a larger medical group under a practice name, and were listed twice, thus removed)7,326 total online Google Reviews for all Phoenix plastic surgeons as of 11/30/23. 84 practices (68.9%) had at least 1 online review. 38 practices (31.1%) had 0 online reviews. Average rating across all practices was 4.70 stars. 60 was the average number of reviews per practice. Statistics Exclusively for the Top Ten Phoenix Practices:3,689 total reviews for the Top 10 combined. This was 50.35% of all reviews combined. 368.9 was the average # of Google Reviews per practice in the Top 10. Star Ratings ranged from 4.7 to 4.9 stars, with the average being 4.83 stars. About The Review Growth Index (RGI)TheReview Growth Index ( RGI ) by Doctor Marketing, MD is an innovative metric designed specifically for the healthcare and medical industries, with current focus on the plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures sectors. It works by aggregating public data from major review platforms like Google Reviews to develop a comprehensive assessment of a doctor or surgeon's online reputation and performance.RGI analyzes the volume of patient reviews a surgeon receives, the star ratings given, and expressions of patient satisfaction. This provides prospective patients a reliable benchmark for choosing skilled, well-regarded doctors or surgeons with confidence.It also serves plastic surgeons by analyzing patient feedback patterns, enabling refinements to medical services and clinical approaches. Overall, RGI functions as an industry-specific gauge of excellence based on actual patient outcomes and experiences. Its insights help match discerning clients with surgeons delivering exceptional care and results.Prior curated lists of plastic surgeon reviews include the Top 10:Best Plastic Surgeons in Houston, TX ,Best Plastic Surgeons in New York, NY , and theBest Plastic Surgeons in Chicago, IL .About Doctor Marketing, MDDoctor Marketing, MD is a topdoctor search engine marketingagency, specializing in healthcare content creation, content distribution, and strategy. The firm works with Top Doctors and Physicians, Surgeons, Healthcare Companies, Medical Professionals, Private Practices, Medical Groups and Clinics, Hospitals, Executives, and Leaders in the Healthcare Industry and specialty Medical sectors.Doctor Marketing, PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-09 19:00:37 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 518 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 The cannabis-themed restaurant and bar is eagerly anticipating its opening and can't wait to light the joint up and be the undisputed local hangout for curing cottonmouth and the munchies.EL PASO, TX / ACCESSWIRE / February 9, 2024 / Cheba journeyman Isaac Montoya and his astonishing team are true representatives of the Hut! The team is thrilled to bring their immense talents to the wonderful city of El Paso, TX, and stoked to continue their storied relationship with the "toasted" sub and bar concept.Montoya's professional evolution within the Chebaverse is one of hard work and passion. Starting as a crew member and rapidly moving up the ranks to general manager and eventually an owner, he is a full embodiment of the brand and will now have four locations under his belt with more on the radar.Montoya and his team have been highly regarded representatives of the Hut throughout the South for quite some time, crushing the New Mexico markets and now taking their talents into the Lone Star State. They believe it is vital for the new shop to reflect the history of El Paso and its inviting community of residents. Two examples of how they plan to express these aspirations are through their central mural and offering a spacious patio with over 100 seats for homies to soak up the West Texas sun.Montoya explains, "El Paso is a very unique location because of how neighborhood-oriented it is and we plan to lean into that with the new shop. Our goal is to become the city's undisputed neighborhood hangout, and I truly feel the interior and exterior of the shop capture that inviting vibe we hope to give off." Not only will the new Texas location be serving up a variety of dank subs, fluffy pretzel nugs, and gooey krispy treats that can cure any level of the munchies, but also, for the 21 and up homies, they'll be slinging some delicious signature cocktails and local brews from their full bar that will obliterate any presence of cottonmouth!Isaac and his team wholeheartedly understand the importance of maintaining Cheba Hut's Core Values (The Hustle, Show Respect, Own It, Pay It Forward, Keep It Real). Montoya explains, "Owning It is our top priority. We struggle as humans to own our successes so we want to emphasize the wins and celebrate them. Being engaged, transparent, and seeing every little task through in its entirety are all the aspects of this core value that we aim to display." The shop, located at 3001 N Zaragoza Road, El Paso, TX, 79938, opens its doors on Friday, 2/23! The brand is stoked to bring over 30 signature "toasted" subs, an array of delicious munchie treats, and cottonmouth cures for all ages (Crafted Cocktails for the 21+ homies) to the El Paso area!For more info about opening day and upcoming events, check out chebahut.texas! Contact InformationMel BanisterMarketing Managermel@ chebahut.com Related FilesFor Immediate Release El Paso-Zaragoza will soon have its very own Cheba Hut Toasted Subs Location! (1).pdfSOURCE: Cheba Hut FranchisingView the original press release on newswire.com PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-09 22:35:31 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 338 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / February 9, 2024 / CNH IndustrialCase IH, a brand of CNH, recently attended the Coopavel Rural Show. Held from February 5 to 9 in Cascavel, West of Parana, the fair celebrated its 36th edition where Case IH presented a portfolio designed for the needs of the Parana farmer.There were more than fifteen machines on display for all stages of the production cycle, from planters to harvesters and infrastructure machines. Case IH highlighted its high-tech machinery the Steiger AFS Connect; the Easy Riser planter; the Farmall, Puma and Magnum tractors; the Patriot 250 sprayer; the Axial-Flow Series 150 and Series 250 harvesters; and the IH corn platform and the Caracol 3020 TerraFlex grain platform.Products from CASE Construction Equipment (a brand of CNH) were also exhibited in the space, displaying the 580N S2 HD backhoe loader, the 612E wheel loader and the CX130B hydraulic excavator.Raven, another CNH brand, presented its precision agriculture portfolio at the Coopavel Rural Show, with DirecSteer electric steering. The solution offers high torque, quiet operation and ease of installation for the Puma line tractors (from 144 to 234 hp) and was featured at the Case IH booth along with other products.Celebrating 25 years of history in Brazil, CNH Capital was also present at the Coopavel Rural Show, affirming their commitment to helping customers achieve their dreams, remaining at the forefront of the financial sector and contributing to the country's development. The team worked to offer specialized support in choosing the best financial and insurance solutions, facilitating the acquisition of Case IH products.Attending this event affirms CNH's commitment to innovative product design for a more sustainable future not just for our famers and builders, but for the world at large.Attending this event affirms CNH's commitment to innovative product design for a more sustainable future not just for our famers and builders, but for the world at largeView additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from CNH Industrial on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info: Spokesperson: CNH IndustrialWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/cnh-industrial Email: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: CNH Industrial PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-09 00:35:01 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 507 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 MIAMI, FL / ACCESSWIRE / February 8, 2024 /duPont REGISTRY Group, the trailblazer in the luxury and exotic automotive ecosystem, and RM Sotheby's, the world's largest auction house by total sales, announce the appointment of Colleen Cash as President of Sotheby's Motorsport and Chief Digital Officer of duPont REGISTRY Group, a dual position that will allow her to build a cohesive experience for both platforms. This marks a significant milestone in duPont REGISTRY Group's commitment to elevating the luxury automotive marketplace.Collen Cash New President of Sotheby's Motorsport and Chief Digital Officer of duPont REGISTRY GroupColleen Cash will play a pivotal role in knitting together a cohesive experience across all ecosystems within Sotheby's Motorsport and duPont REGISTRY Group."Colleen will be a tremendous asset to our team," said Antoine Tessier, CEO of duPont REGISTRY Group. "Her unique insight into the consumer and luxury markets will be vital as we transform our ecosystem through new product development and digital expansion and truly deliver on being the one-stop shop for the ultimate luxury car experience." With over a decade of expertise, Colleen Cash stands as a seasoned senior executive. Her specialized focus lies in optimizing secondary markets and online marketplace models, with knowledge spanning the realms of fine art, collectibles, and luxury goods."I am honored to accept these tremendous positions and embark on this exciting journey to redefine the luxury automotive marketplace," says Cash. "My vision is to enhance the digital experience, weaving together the best of all we are delivering, while connecting clients to the story behind each luxury vehicle." As the former Senior Vice President of Marketplace at Artnet, Colleen orchestrated a comprehensive overhaul of the Auctions and Galleries divisions. Under her leadership, the team achieved unparalleled milestones, setting new records in revenue, profitability, and audience expansion."Her extensive background in sales and revenue, coupled with a keen understanding of the audience lens, positions Colleen to shape the digital storefront experience of our group," adds Bryon Madsen, President of RM Sotheby's.For media inquiries, please contact:media@ dupontregistrygroup.com About:duPont REGISTRY Group is the epitome of the high-end automotive lifestyle, bringing together culture, community, and commerce. duPont REGISTRY Group is a vibrant community of automotive enthusiasts. Its portfolio includes duPont REGISTRY, Sotheby's Motorsport, Canossa Events, Cavallino, and FerrariChat.RM Sotheby's is the world's leading collector car auction house. RM's vertically integrated range of services, from auctions and private sales to estate planning and financial services, provides an unsurpassed level of service to the global collector car market. RM Sotheby's is currently responsible for the most valuable motor car ever sold at auction.Sotheby's Motorsport, a distinguished division of the renowned Sotheby's brand, is a premier destination for automotive enthusiasts and collectors alike. Dedicated to the passion and artistry of automotive design, Sotheby's Motorsport offers a unique platform for buyers and sellers to engage in the world of high-performance and classic automobiles.###Contact InformationAntoine TessierCEOat@ dupontregistrygroup.com 9174157295SOURCE: duPont REGISTRY GroupView the original press release on newswire.com PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-09 16:00:48 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 747 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 National non-profit Freedom Reads opens Freedom Libraries at Cheltenham Youth Detention Center, the Charles H. Hickey Jr. School, and Dorsey Run Correctional Facility; literary performances presented at three youth detention facilitiesHAMDEN, CT / ACCESSWIRE / February 9, 2024 / The national non-profit Freedom Reads announced today the opening of 14 Freedom Libraries across three detention and correctional facilities in Maryland. On February 8th, six libraries were opened in Cheltenham Youth Detention Center, a juvenile correctional facility in Cheltenham, MD. Today, Freedom Reads is opening four Freedom Libraries at the Charles H. Hickey, Jr. School in Parkville, MD, and returning to Dorsey Run Correctional Facility, in Jessup, MD, to open four additional Freedom Libraries. Freedom Reads previously opened four libraries at Dorsey Run Correctional Facility in June 2023. The libraries are opened in each of the facilities' cellblocks to enable unfettered access to the curated collection.In addition to the opening of the Freedom Libraries, yesterday Freedom Reads' partner organization Literature to Life gave a performance ofThe Giver, adapted from Lois Lowry's Newbery-Award winning and bestselling novel, at Cheltenham Youth Detention Center. Today, Literature to Life is giving two more performances, one at the Baltimore City Juvenile Justice Center, where Freedom Reads opened eleven Freedom Libraries in June 2023, and another at the Charles H. Hickey Jr., School."With the opening of these Freedom Libraries, we aim to build community spaces where adults and kids who are incarcerated can find beauty, imagine new possibilities, and envision what their lives could look like outside of prison walls," said Reginald Dwayne Betts, Founder & CEO of Freedom Reads. "We are grateful the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services and the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services share our goal of creating opportunities for daily engagement with literature and a space in prison for reading, community, and imagination." "Last year, when Freedom Reads installed libraries at the Baltimore City Juvenile Justice Center, I witnessed a group of kids with various interests who immediately became engaged with the new books on their unit," said Department of Juvenile Services Secretary Vincent N. Schiraldi. "The libraries that are installed open up new possibilities and a different path for each youth. Research shows that the more books a teenager is surrounded by increases the amount of time a youth will read. In turn, the more a student reads equates to lower stress levels and higher accomplishments in life." "The Department is thankful for this wonderful partnership with Freedom Reads, which allows us to fulfill our mission of increasing programs and services to help returning citizens successfully re-enter society," said Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services Secretary Carolyn J. Scruggs.Freedom Libraries, the brainchild of 2021 MacArthur Fellow and Yale Law School graduate Reginald Dwayne Betts, who was sentenced to nine years in prison at age 16, are spaces in prisons to encourage the full realization of self. The libraries are handcrafted out of wood and curved to contrast the straight lines and bars of prisons as well as to evoke Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s observation about the "arc of the universe" bending "toward justice." Centering beauty and dignity, Freedom Libraries seek to create a space in prisons to encourage community and the exploration of new possibilities.Betts' nonprofit is a first-of-its-kind organization that empowers people through literature to confront what prison does to the spirit. Books in the Freedom Library have been carefully curated through consultations with thousands of poets, novelists, philosophers, teachers, friends, and voracious readers, resulting in a collection of books that are not only beloved but indispensable. The libraries include contemporary poets, novelists, and essayists, alongside classic works from Homer's The Odyssey to the Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, that remind us that the book has long been a freedom project.About Freedom Reads:Founded by Reginald Dwayne Betts, who knows firsthand the dispiriting forces of prison, Freedom Reads works to empower people through literature to confront what prison does to the spirit. Inspired by the recognition that freedom begins with a book, Freedom Reads supports the efforts of people in prison to transform their lives through increased access to books and writers. For more information about Freedom Reads and the Freedom Libraries project, please visit https://freedomreads.org ###For more information, please contact Megan Stencel at megan@ javelindc.com or (703) 490-8845.Contact InformationMegan StencelSenior Account Executivemegan@ javelindc.com 7034908845SOURCE: Freedom ReadsView the original press release on newswire.com PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-09 15:01:24 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 499 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Leading disposable vape industry brand AIR BAR elevates the vaping experience through groundbreaking PTC technology in new Diamond Box vape deviceSHENZHEN, CHINA / ACCESSWIRE / February 9, 2024 /AIR BAR, a trailblazer in the nicotine disposable vape industry, unveiled at this year's Total Product Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada, its latest technological marvel: Precision Temperature Control (PTC) technology. This revolutionary advancement is embedded in the highly anticipated Diamond Box, AIR BAR's newest disposable vape, which received high demand at this year's trade show held at the Las Vegas Convention Center. PTC technology sets a new benchmark by intelligently adjusting atomization power in real-time, ensuring a continuous and stable vaporization experience throughout the product's lifespan.AIR BAR Diamond Box with PTC Technology AIR BAR's newest disposable vape Diamond Box with cutting-edge PTC technology.Disposable vape devices currently on the market often suffer from issues such as unstable flavor and easy burning. To tackle these challenges, AIR BAR has pioneered the use of PTC technology. This cutting-edge approach, backed by a patented invention (Patent No.: 2023118519017), monitors and controls the atomization core temperature, providing real-time adjustments for a seamless vaping experience.PTC operates by monitoring the atomization core temperature hundreds of times per second and adjusting the battery's input power in milliseconds. This precision control ensures that the atomization core temperature stays within the optimal range for e-liquid, enhancing flavor and preventing issues like scorching, a process that occurs when a coil overheats or dries out during vaping, causing the coil's cotton wick to burn and leaving an unpleasant taste. PTC spans the entire lifespan of the product, delivering consistent and high-quality vaping.PTC ensures stable vaporization, maintaining the atomization core temperature within the optimal range for a superior flavor and vaping experience. This technology provides continuous and stable vaporization throughout the product's lifespan, preventing the occurrence of a strong flavor followed by a fading taste. PTC intelligently identifies low e-liquid levels and prevents scorching by adjusting or cutting off power output, as well as real-time monitoring which prevents issues like overheating or excessive temperatures, resulting in a safer vaping experience.Diamond Box offers 20,000 puffs, a 3D diamond-patterned body, OLED screen, and USB Type-C rechargeability. With Pre-Heating Coil (PHC) technology, which AIR BAR introduced earlier this year, and PTC technology, this device brings an unparalleled vaping experience. Diamond Box will next be available to experience, before it hits stores later this month, at CHAMPS Trade Shows in Las Vegas at the Las Vegas Convention Center on February 14-17, 2024. AIR BAR looks forward to further educating both industry players and the public on its proprietary PTC technology.About AIR BAR:Established in 2019, AIR BAR is a leading nicotine disposable vape company committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation. Dedicated to research and development and education, AIR BAR consistently delivers cutting-edge products, offering a healthier and safer alternative to smoking.For media inquiries: media@ airbar.com Contact Information:Quentin BrunelDirector of Operationsquentin@ airbar.com 310-691-4473SOURCE: AIR BARView the original press release on newswire.com PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-09 04:51:17 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 394 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW ORLEANS, LA / ACCESSWIRE / February 8, 2024 / Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., remind investors that they have until February 20, 2024to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. (NYSE:INSP), if they purchased the Company's shares between May 3, 2023 and November 7, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the District of Minnesota.What You May DoIf you purchased shares of Inspire and would like to discuss your legal rights and how this case might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, contact KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or via email ( lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com) , or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-insp/ to learn more. If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court byFebruary 20, 2024 .About the LawsuitInspire Medical and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.On November 7, 2023, post-market, the Company disclosed disappointing financial results for 3Q 2023, including "a decline in prior authorization submissions for patients seeking Inspire therapy," as well as problems with its highly touted "Acceleration Program" requiring "some corrective action." On this news, shares of Inspire Medical plummeted approximately 20%, from a closing price of $161.74 per share on November 7, 2023, to a closing price of $129.95 per share on November 8, 2023.The case is City of Hollywood Firefighters' Pension Fund v. Inspire Medical Systems, Inc., No. 23-cv-03884.About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCKSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is one of the nation's premier boutique securities litigation law firms. KSF serves a variety of clients - including public institutional investors, hedge funds, money managers and retail investors - in seeking recoveries for investment losses emanating from corporate fraud or malfeasance by publicly traded companies. KSF has offices in New York, Delaware, California, Louisiana and New Jersey.To learn more about KSF, you may visit http://ksfcounsel.com/ Contact:Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCLewis Kahn, Managing Partner lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com 1-877-515-18501100 Poydras St., Suite 960New Orleans, LA 70163SOURCE: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-09 20:01:04 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 462 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Axis Global Logistics today named Jason Bergman as CEO of Axis GlobalPISCATAWAY, NJ / ACCESSWIRE / February 9, 2024 / Axis Global Logistics announces that Jason Bergman has been named Chief Executive Officer effective immediately. Bergman will lead the 25-year-old global 3PL headquartered in Piscataway New Jersey. Bergman most recently served as Chief Commercial Officer of Yellow Corporation & President of Yellow Logistics.Axis Global Logistics - Jason Bergman, CEO Jason Bergman"Jason has a proven track record of building enterprise-wide strategies to grow profitable and sustainable market share in the global transportation & logistics market and enhancing customer experiences," said John Cheringal, Founder and Managing Partner of Axis Global Logistics. "With our best-in-class global customer experience driven network designed to provide high-touch critical logistics, we found a proven leader with a deep understanding of the market in Jason at an opportune time to lead the organization." "Axis Global plays a critical role for its client's supply chains; it is an honor and a privilege to lead the organization during this exciting time," said Jason Bergman. "Adding that the dedicated employees and partners of Axis Global with the combined power of a strong customer base and supply chain solutions that differentiate the organization from others in the market provide an opportunity for exceptional growth and sustainability in the future." About Jason BergmanJason Bergman started his career in global transportation and logistics at BAX Global/Schenker where he held a variety of leadership positions during his 14-year tenure, ultimately serving as Vice President of Global Sales for the retail vertical market and North American sales. Bergman has held officer and executive team roles at leading global transportation and logistics providers Dynamex and Dicom where he had been part of successful transactions in the marketplace.Most recently, Bergman was Chief Commercial Officer for Yellow Corporation leading their sales & marketing organization responsible for the organization's enterprise commercial strategy and was also served as President of Yellow Logistics.Bergman holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Rutgers University. He is on the Board of Directors for Capacity LLC and is the Executive in Residence for the Rutgers Business School Department of Supply Chain Management.* * * * *About Axis GlobalAxis Global Logistics is the provider of mission-critical supply chain management solutions and end-to-end services for marquee clients in the luxury retail, aviation, life sciences, professional services and other high-touch, high-demand end markets requiring time-sensitive performance and precise execution. Axis serves as a single point of contact for the design, planning and implementation of managed services across North America.Investor & Media Contact:Karl Turkel, Director of Marketing, Axis Global LogisticsEmail: kturkel@ axisg.com Phone: (646) 325-5764Contact InformationKarl TurkelDirector of Marketingkturkel@ axisg.com 6463257564SOURCE: Axis Global LogisticsView the original press release on newswire.com PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-09 23:15:25 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 591 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 CALGARY, AB and MONROVIA, LIBERIA / ACCESSWIRE / February 9, 2024 / In a groundbreaking move for environmental sustainability and economic revitalization, Karbon-X Project Inc. (OTC PINK:KARX), a leader in carbon offset solutions, has partnered with Revive Terra Corps, a pioneer in ecosystem restoration and sustainable agriculture, to initiate a biochar manufacturing project at a former rubber plantation in Liberia. This collaboration marks a significant step towards combating climate change, enhancing biodiversity, and fostering economic growth in one of Africa's most resource-rich yet underutilized regions.Under the agreement, Karbon-X will lend its expertise in project design, implementation, and the marketing of voluntary carbon offsets. In exchange, Karbon-X will receive a 50% share of all future biochar offsets generated, symbolizing a shared commitment to environmental restoration and sustainable development. The partnership encapsulates a comprehensive plan including the supply of state-of-the-art Vario L+ biochar units, on-site commissioning, training, and the provision of essential services to ensure the project's success.This project represents a holistic approach to revitalizing abandoned rubber tree plantations, thereby addressing critical issues such as economic stability, food security, and environmental restoration in Liberia. "Our deal with Revive Terra will bring economic and ecological revitalization to an area of the world that's been neglected in recent years, Karbon-X is extremely proud to be a part of it." said Chad Clovis, CEO of Karbon-X.Liberia, with its vast equatorial rainforests and fertile agricultural lands, presents an ideal setting for this initiative. The rubber plantation, spanning 245,000 hectares along the Sinoe River, offers a unique combination of secondary forest and previously cultivated land, now poised for transformation into a biochar production hub. This venture promises to leverage local resources and labor, contributing significantly to the region's economic development and sustainability goals.The project is poised to deliver substantial social assistance, including healthcare, retirement benefits, and support for local infrastructure such as hospitals and schools, in a region that has faced nearly 100% unemployment since the Liberian civil war. By tapping into the growing market for sustainable wood products and energy generation, Revive Terra is set to generate increased returns for shareholders while fostering environmental stewardship and community empowerment.Karbon-X brings a wealth of experience and innovation to the partnership, ensuring the project's success and sustainability. With a history of partnering with industries across the spectrum to meet ESG goals, Karbon-X stands ready to democratize access to carbon credits, enhancing the project's global reach and impact.This partnership between Karbon-X Project Inc and Revive Terra Corps represents a visionary approach to restoring natural habitats, combating climate change, and revitalizing local economies through innovation and sustainable practices. It signals a hopeful future for Liberia and a model for sustainable development worldwide.About Karbon-X Project IncKarbon-X Project Inc. specializes in providing internationally verified carbon credits, meeting companies' ESG goals through innovative solutions. With a strong focus on quality and efficiency, Karbon-X is at the forefront of the carbon offset market, offering seamless integration of carbon credit solutions for businesses and consumers alike.Karbon-X provides access to carbon offsets for everyday people via an easy subscription service both through its website and its app via karbon-x.com About Revive Terra CorpsRevive Terra Corps is dedicated to restoring natural habitats, enhancing biodiversity, and combating climate change through sustainable agricultural systems. By empowering local communities with the knowledge, resources, and technologies needed for sustainable development, Revive Terra is creating lasting change in Africa's ecosystems and economies.Contact InformationFor media inquiries and more information on this partnership, please contact:Head of Marketing at Karbon-XDaniel Haigh dh@ karbon-x.com 1 587 577 3863SOURCE: Karbon-X Project Inc. PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-09 20:06:16 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 1025 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NSMV V to be delivered to California State University Maritime Academy in 2026PHILADELPHIA, PA / ACCESSWIRE / February 9, 2024 / TOTE Services, LLC, (TOTE Services), Philly Shipyard, Inc., (Philly Shipyard) and California State University Maritime Academy (Cal Maritime) today celebrated the cutting of steel for the fifth National Security Multi-Mission Vessel (NSMV) destined for Cal Maritime in Vallejo, California. This ceremonial event signifies the start of construction for the vessel and occurred at Philly Shipyard's plasma cutting machine as the button was pressed to start the plasma cutting process.This event marks an exciting stage and milestone in the construction of the U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration's (MARAD) NSMV program. This is the last steel cutting ceremony for five contracted vessels slated to be constructed for the program. The NSMV program is designed to provide purpose-built, state-of-the-art training platforms for five state maritime academies in New York, Massachusetts, Maine, Texas, and California, respectively. In addition to providing best-in-class training for America's future mariners, the five NSMVs will be available to support humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions in times of need. The fifth vessel is contracted for delivery in 2026 to the Academy in California.In May 2019, MARAD awarded TOTE Services a contract to be the Vessel Construction Manager (VCM) for the NSMV program. Since then, the innovative VCM contract structure has proven to be an effective model in which the government benefits from commercial best practices to design and construct vessels that are built by union labor in a U.S. shipyard with U.S.-made steel and U.S.-made engines."We've reached a historic milestone with the cutting of steel for this ship that will be used to train future cadets at the California State University Maritime Academy," said TOTE Services President Jeff Dixon. "We're grateful for the widespread, bipartisan support the NSMV program has received to help make this significant investment in the U.S. maritime industry possible." Construction of the NSMVs will recapitalize our nation's maritime training fleet, strengthen America's industrial base, and directly support more than 1,300 shipyard jobs in Philadelphia."We are proud to welcome California State University Maritime Academy to our shipyard to celebrate the start of construction of its new training vessel, together," said Steinar Nerbovik, President and CEO of Philly Shipyard. "This is a special moment and major milestone in their history, and for the NSMV program, and it is a significant moment for Philly Shipyard. Thank you to our partners, suppliers and advocates for your support, and thank you to all of the shipbuilders who will support bringing this vessel to life for Cal Maritime." "This moment represents the culmination of efforts from our campus community, industry partners, congressional delegation and all who have been paramount in pushing this forward," said Michael J. Dumont, interim president of California State University Maritime Academy. "We are thankful to MARAD for recognizing Cal Maritime's significance in its mission of addressing the nation's critical needs. The NSMV V Golden State will undoubtedly aid in our mission of serving as a leading educational institution recognized for academic excellence and unique training opportunities in the Pacific Rim and beyond. Thank you to all at TOTE Services and the Philly Shipyard for all your work in making this exciting vessel a reality." Construction of four of the vessels are well underway and are in various stages of production at Philly Shipyard following the delivery of NSMV I, Empire State, to SUNY Maritime College in September 2023. NSMV II, Patriot State, is undergoing testing and commissioning, NSMV III, State of Maine, is preparing for launch, and NSMV IV, Lone Star State, just celebrated its Keel Laying on December 6, 2023 and had engines installed in the engine room units.About the National Security Multi-Mission Vessel (NSMV) ProgramThe U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration's (MARAD) NSMV program is designed to provide a purpose-built, state-of-the-art training platform for the state maritime academies in New York, Massachusetts, Maine, Texas, and California, respectively.This next-generation training fleet will address a critical shortage of qualified officers necessary to crew government and commercial owned sealift ships. In addition to providing world-class training for America's future mariners, the NSMVs will be available to support humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions in times of need.The NSMV will feature numerous instructional spaces, a full training bridge, and have space for up to 600 cadets to train in a first-rate maritime academic environment at sea. State maritime academies graduate more than half of all new officers each year-the merchant mariners who help keep cargoes and our economy moving. Many also support U.S. national security by crewing military sealift vessels.In addition to being a state-of-the-art training and educational platform, each ship will feature modern hospital facilities, a helicopter pad, and the ability to accommodate up to 1,000 people in times of humanitarian need. Adding to the NSMV's capability, it will provide needed roll-on/roll-off and container storage capacity for use during disaster relief missions.Vessel specifications:Length: 159.85 m Breadth: 27.00 m Draft, scantling: 7.50 m Total berthing: 760 people Speed: 18 kts Deadweight: 8,487 MT About TOTE ServicesTOTE Services, LLC ("TOTE Services") is a leading U.S.-based ship management company that provides crewing and technical services to meet the needs of commercial, privately owned and U.S. Government vessels. Since 2015, TOTE Services has overseen construction and management of the world's first LNG powered container ships, activated U.S. training ships to support disaster relief and managed multiple MARAD vessels. TOTE Services, along with TOTE Maritime Alaska, LLC and TOTE Maritime Puerto Rico, LLC, are part of TOTE Group, LLC. TOTE Group is a member of the Saltchuk family of companies.For more information about TOTE Services, please visit www.totegroup.com/services About Philly ShipyardPhilly Shipyard, Inc. (OTC PINK:AKRRF) (PSI) is a leading U.S. shipbuilder that is presently pursuing a mix of commercial and government work. It possesses a state-of-the-art shipbuilding facility and has earned a reputation as a preferred provider of oceangoing merchant vessels with a track record of delivering quality ships, having delivered around 50% of all large ocean-going Jones Act c PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-09 20:01:34 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 443 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 DALLAS, TX / ACCESSWIRE / February 9, 2024 / NICA Fund has been invited to present at Integrous Communications Big Hearts, Big Ideas Virtual Investor Conference, which is being held virtually on February 13-15th, 2024.The founder of Nica Fund, Terri Marlett is scheduled to present on Wednesday, February 14, 2024 (1:00 PM EST).The presentation will be webcast live and available for replay via the following link: https://www.webcaster4.com/Webcast/Page/3017/49869 Management will also be available for one-on-one meetings to be held throughout the conference and can be requested through the conference site.To register for the event, Investors can go to the conference link: Big Hearts, Big Ideas Growth Virtual ConferenceAbout NICA FundWe are committed to elevating rural communities throughout Nicaragua by mobilizing local people to do the work. We implement programs that provide opportunities to locals to create change in their lives and communities. We accomplish this by working with the local community, central government ministries, local and international volunteers, and partners and donors who support our programs and assist us in implementing them on the ground.About the Integrous Big Hearts, Big Ideas Growth ConferenceWelcome to the 2024 Integrous Big Hearts, Big Ideas Growth Virtual Conference, where the nexus of innovation,big investment ideasand charitable giving all converge in a dynamic digital space.The focus of this conference is to present smaller market cap companies that we believe are poised to be much bigger due to innovation, positioning, and increased visibility.At the same time, we want to demonstrate compassion and realize that while we can pursue profits in our portfolios,giving backpays dividends in ways that benefit humanity and society. We truly believe that the two do go hand in hand.Step into the future with us at the 2024 Integrous Big Hearts, Big Ideas Growth Conference, an unparalleled gathering where thepulseof innovationharmonizeswith therhythmof investment and charitable giving on a virtual platform. Our carefully curated agenda features thought leaders, industry pioneers, and visionaries who will share insights on the latest trends, disruptive technologies, and emerging market dynamics that are shaping the future.The conference will consist of company presentations (Public, and a select few Private), 1x1's, as well as presentations from some selected charities that we would like to highlight.As we navigate the intersection of innovation, investment andgiving , the conference aims to spark opportunities for growth. Join us in this digital format where ideas take flight, investments find purpose, and the future unfolds in real-time.Welcome to a revolution in connectivity, where the 2024 Integrous Big Hearts, Big Ideas Growth Conference sets the stage for a new era of investment, inspiration, and progress.For further information: Events@ Integcom.us SOURCE: NICA Fund PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-09 17:15:22 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 522 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Beyond Traditional Care: How Sensay's AI Companions Are Crafting Personalized SupportSAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / February 9, 2024 / In a world where over 55 million people are living with dementia-a number projected to rise dramatically in the coming decades-Sensay introduces a transformative solution that stands at the forefront of healthcare innovation. As dementia increasingly challenges individuals' memory, cognitive abilities, and emotional well-being, Sensay emerges not merely as a product but as a beacon of hope, blending cutting-edge AI with deep empathy to revolutionize care for those affected.Sensay AI Dementia Health Tech Sensay AI Alzheimer's Disease digital replication technology. The Challenge of Dementia CareDementia and Alzheimer's disease not only strip individuals of precious memories but often lead to emotional and social isolation, complicating daily tasks and personal care. The burden on caregivers is immense, with geographic and economic factors further limiting access to quality care. Sensay addresses these challenges head-on, providing a solution that transcends traditional care methods.Sensay's Innovative SupportAt the heart of Sensay's platform is the use of advanced AI to create digital replicas of patients, preserving their memories, voices, and personalities, offering users a sense of continuity and connection. Interactive AI companions provide personalized engagement, while cognitive stimulation activities aim to track the progression of symptoms. Sensay also offers invaluable support to caregivers, fostering a community of advice and support.Sensay's foundation is a deep commitment to preserving the richness of individual histories and memories, utilizing technology to maintain the essence of cherished relationships. The platform's design is intuitive and accessible, ensuring ease of use regardless of technological proficiency.With over 20,000 users, Sensay's effectiveness is reflected by early testimonials and research findings, demonstrating significant improvements in users' emotional well-being and cognitive engagement.Key Features of Sensay- Digital Replication of Memories: Digitally replicates loved ones' voices, images, and personalities.- Cognitive Stimulation: Daily reminders and personalized exercises designed to combat the progression of dementia symptoms.- Support for Caregivers: Provides resources and tools to alleviate caregiver stress and promote effective care strategies.Sensay's ImpactSensay is more than a technological innovation; it's a comprehensive solution that enhances the lives of those affected by dementia. By replicating familiar people and memories, Sensay offers comfort and familiarity, addressing the emotional and social challenges of dementia. As the platform learns and adapts, it promises increasingly personalized support, making a tangible difference in the lives of users and caregivers alike.Dan Thomson , Founder of Sensay, shares his vision: "At the heart of Sensay is a commitment to reimagining dementia care. We believe in the power of technology to preserve the essence of our shared humanity-our memories, voices, and the stories that define us. As we look to the future, our goal is to bridge the gap between technology and empathy, ensuring that every individual with dementia can maintain a connection to their identity and loved ones." By harnessing the power of technology, Sensay is committed to improving the quality of life for millions affected by dementia worldwide.Contact: www.sensay.ioinfo@sensay.io @asksensayContact InformationDan Thomson Press Officedan@ sensay.io SOURCE: SensayView the original press release on newswire.com Another government agency zeros in on Amazon Marketplace Most everyone who shops online buys from Amazon, but, presumably, few shoppers give much thought as to whether the products are being purchased from the retailer itself or one of the sellers on the Amazon Marketplace (AM). AM, which represents 60% of Amazons sales, is the portion of the e-commerce giant where Amazon facilitates sales of products owned by third parties without taking ownership of inventory. Unless shoppers receive the annoying See All Buying Options message (which they rarely care to see), its not clear if an item is being sold by a Marketplace seller. In September 2023, the Federal Trade Commission sued Amazon for illegally abusing monopoly power the agencys complaints largely centered around treatment of AM sellers, such as whether sellers should be required to use Amazons fulfillment centers and transportation network to qualify for Prime and win the buy box. I interviewed an expert on that topic in October who had mixed thoughts on the FTCs complaint. I also recommend reading this Seattle Times article, which provides a summary and next steps. Now, Amazon Marketplace is reportedly coming under fire from a different angle this time from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, which is said to be working on an order to classify Amazon as a distributor. Thats important because it would make the online retailer responsible for the safety of products sold on Amazon Marketplace and would make the online retailer responsible for product recalls. Such an order would create additional compliance costs, and the retailer may have to more aggressively vet Marketplace sellers. An order could encourage Amazon to reduce its third-party seller ranks and scale back its product selection that could help the more reputable sellers that would remain on Marketplace. An order would also likely have implications for other online marketplaces, such as eBay or Walmart Marketplace, a growing channel that is similar to Amazons third-party offering. Story continues Any Amazon haters will enjoy the Amazon comments in this lecture from author Cory Doctorow. I cant speak to his credibility all I can say is that he does not exactly see the world through rose-colored glasses. The obvious counterpoints are: Most consumers love the convenience of Amazon, most U.S. households happily pay for Prime, Prime has a 91% satisfaction rate (what else is that high?), and it has a very low cancellation rate. If Amazon really is taking advantage of consumers, the public is too dumb to know it. Rob Haddock describes why Coke aspires to be a Shipper of Choice I recommend reading Rob Haddocks (Group Director, Transportation Strategy at Coca-Cola North America) article on how to become, and why it pays to be, a Shipper of Choice. In short, he believes that many shippers do not fully appreciate the nuances of moving their freight those can be idiosyncrasies related to their lanes and/or service requirements. But, carriers fully understand how less-tangible factors contribute to or detract from their bottom lines. To be a Shipper of Choice, beneficial cargo owners should take steps to help their carriers efficiency and compensate them for any inefficiencies. Here are a few of Haddocks pieces of advice: Dont rely too heavily on rating tools. While rating tools provide a convenient gauge of market rates in a particular lane, they have important limitations and do not consider inefficiencies that may be inherent to serving the shipper in question. Shippers must provide accurate volume projections they are critical to optimize carriers drive time and reduce empty miles. Shippers should maintain relationships with a set of core carriers and look to utilize those carriers at all points in the freight cycle. That will naturally lead to improved compliance with the added benefit that the carriers will fully grasp the shippers service requirements. Intermodal contract rates to be lower y/y during the first half On their respective earnings calls, domestic intermodal providers J.B. Hunt and Hub Group told analysts to expect intermodal pricing to be down year over year in the first half of this year. That is consistent with the year-to-date data contained in SONAR via the IMCRPM1.USA ticker (shown above), which is an average of intermodal contract rates, excluding fuel surcharges. Year to date, SONAR shows average intermodal contract rates down 9% y/y and down 13% on a two-year stack versus 2022. Some intermodal carriers expect a turn in rates later this year Hub Groups management said it expects rates to be up slightly y/y in the second half. Progress toward meeting that expectation can be monitored in the same SONAR data set, which is a daily series on a two-week lag. Risks to positive intermodal rates in the second half include a truckload market that may remain loose, potential continued domestic container availability (a measure of domestic intermodal capacity) and potential rail service disruptions. To subscribe to The Stockout, FreightWaves CPG and retail newsletter, click here or click here to see episodes of The Stockout show. The post Is Amazon a distributor? appeared first on FreightWaves. PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-09 13:46:05 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 459 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 This strategic collaboration is set to transform trading education with customized learning solutions and market insights.JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA / ACCESSWIRE / February 9, 2024 / SolisMarkets, a premier South African broker, is pleased to announce its strategic alliance with Traders Education, a top supplier of news, trading tools, and white-label education. Thiscollaborationhas the potential to completely transform the trading education space by giving traders at SolisMarkets unmatched access to a wealth of instructional materials and tools that will improve their financial literacy and trading proficiency.Expressing his excitement surrounding this development, CEO of SolisMarkets, Andre Van Zyl, said, "We are changing our traders' interactions with the markets in addition to improving our teaching programs. Giving our clients the tools they need to succeed in the complicated world of trading is a wonderful fit with our mission to build a trading community that is more knowledgeable and competent." SolisMarkets' collaboration with Traders Education introduces an era of enriched educational content tailored to the diverse needs of its trading community. Renowned for its exceptional educational resources, Traders Education specializes in creating custom content such as video news, tutorials, and promotional videos, thus promising a personalized learning experience for beginners and veteran traders.Echoing the sentiment of bespoke educational solutions, Francois Albessard, CEO of Traders Education, emphasized the collaboration's focus on customization: "Working alongside SolisMarkets, we're set to deliver education that directly addresses the unique needs of their trading community. Our goal is to craft a suite of educational tools and content that educates and resonates with every trader." This collaboration between Traders Education and SolisMarkets demonstrates both businesses' commitment to enhancing the trading education industry. They hope to foster a trading community that is more self-assured and knowledgeable by providing traders with the necessary resources and expertise.SolisMarkets traders now have access to a broad spectrum of educational materials, from basic trading fundamentals to advanced strategies. This initiative enables personalized learning paths, allowing traders to progress at their own pace and focus on areas most relevant to their goals. Furthermore, the collaboration introduces daily market news videos, providing crucial updates for making informed decisions, capturing market opportunities, and managing risks effectively.For additional information about this fascinating collaboration and to pursue the available educational materials, please visit www.solismarkets.com About SolisMarketsSolisMarkets is an international asset management and banking platform dedicated to improving traders' access to online video courses on finance. Working under the fully regulated Eklavya Asset Management of the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) of South Africa, SolisMarkets aims to create a community of skilled traders who can navigate the ever-changing financial markets.Media ContactOrganization: SolisMarketsContact Person: Andre Van ZylWebsite: https://www.solismarkets.com/Email: support@ solismarkets.com City: JohannesburgCountry: South AfricaSOURCE: SolisMarkets Nigerian cinemas grossed more than N7.2 billion in 2023 from over 2.6 million admissions, with Nollywood averaging a 39 per cent market share. The data insights from The Industry, a journal by film insights publication, say in Nollywood, over 14 per cent of the total gross was earned by Funke Akindeles `A Tribe Called Judah. The film was the first Nollywood film to hit one billion dollars in cinema. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the earnings are over 416 million naira more than in 2022, with a seven per cent year-on-year increase in market share. However, while 2022 gross was earned from 64 locations, there were 70 locations in 2023. The journal noted that revenue growth, mostly hinged on increased ticket prices, is happening at a different pace than admissions growth, which still needs to be significantly higher. More insight Despite the success of A Tribe Called Judah, Akindeles previous film, Omo Ghetto: The Saga (2020), currently holds the record for the most admissions recorded for a Nollywood film at 449,901. After the lockdown, the project primarily returned the audience to Nigerian cinemas and converted new audiences. If released in the same period as A Tribe Called Judah, with an average ticket price at N3,700, itd have made over N1.6bn, which raises the question of ticket prices and actual cinema habit growth, despite the yearly increase in gross revenues. Ticket prices are at N7,000 in most cinemas in city centres. In a similar context, the first Black Panther movie, released in 2018, had over 200,000 admissions more than Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. The latter went on to break the record for the first film to gross one billion naira in West Africa, a feat aided by increased ticket prices and more screening locations. The former grossed over 800 million naira at the time. In 2018, there were 48 locations, and the number grew to 64 by 2022, the journal stated. It also stated that cinemas have been hanging on by raising prices at a wild rate, causing audiences to think through their decisions more intently than before. NAN reports that nine other films grossed over N5 Million in cinemas in 2023. They are Malaika, Ada Omo Daddy, Orisa, Merry Men 3, Kesari, Something Like Gold, The Kujus Again, Afamefuna and A Weekend To Forget. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The South African Minister of International Relations, Naledi Pandor, said shes been receiving threats after the country filed a complaint against Israel at the International Court of Justice, The Citizen reported. Ms Pandor requested that the countrys police chief increase her security after she was targeted on social media, she told journalists at the State of the Nations Address by President Cyril Ramaphosa. South Africa filed a case against Israel to the ICJ in seeking an immediate halt to the countrys military attacks in Gaza, as well as a discontinuation of forced displacement to enable humanitarian access to thousands of Palestinians. Mr Ramaphosa, during his Sona24 on February 8, also called the military attacks a genocide an assertion that the ICJ said is plausible. The Southern African nation has a large Jewish community, with some of them pushing back while others support an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and human rights for all Palestinians as well as Israelis. READ ALSO: South Africa calls for UN force to protect civilians in Gaza Ms Pandor meanwhile emphasized that South Africa is determined to see the ICJ case through. She told the Mail and Guardian that the country cant back down now. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) treated a record 3,965 patients from October to December 2023 in its health facilities in Borno State. In 12 months, the international medical organisation said it treated 9,618 patients with measles in both of its healthcare facilities Gwange Paediatric Hospital and Nilefa Kiji Nutrition Hospital and in MSF-supported primary healthcare (PHC) centres in Maiduguri. MSF said measles admission to its facilities spiked last year, reaching a record number. Despite the vaccination efforts, this worrying situation calls for a rapid reinforcement of routine immunisation campaigns, Abdulkareem Yakubu, MSF field communication officer, said in a statement sent to PREMIUM TIMES. We did not expect such a large influx of patients, particularly at the end of the year, explained Abdulwahab Mohamed, MSF medical coordinator, referring to the 3,965 patients treated from October to December, which represent almost three times more than for the same period in 2022. Borno, Yobe and Adamawa States in the north-east region of Nigeria have suffered from a Boko Haram insurgency lasting for over a decade and a half. The insurgency has led to the death of hundreds of thousands of people and the displacement of millions of others. Several schools, residences, health facilities, and roads were destroyed by the insurgents while many communities are still unsafe to access by health workers, teachers and other community service agents. The MSF statement noted that the rise in the number of cases could be attributed to the inability of public health actors to achieve the 95 per cent vaccination rate, required to suppress measles. This is notably due to the difficulties for the health workers in accessing rural communities surrounding Maiduguri as the insecurity has made vaccination campaigns a difficult endeavour, the MSF Medical Activity Manager at Gwange Paediatric Hospital, Jombo Tochukwu-Okoli, said. Other difficulties in achieving higher vaccination coverage as highlighted by the MSF include interruption of routine childhood vaccination during the COVID-19 pandemic and outbreak of other diseases like diphtheria and a longer-than-usual malaria season. The complex security situation in Northern Nigeria, significant funding cuts by international donors for Nigeria, and the continuous neglect of public health infrastructure is alarming. Considering the high prevalence of vaccine-preventable outbreaks, such as measles, diphtheria and meningitis, MSF is cautioning international and national stakeholders not to look away at what could be an oncoming perfect storm for a worsening of the humanitarian crisis in 2024, the statement noted. Measles is one of the most contagious viral diseases in the world. Infecting the immune cells, the virus quickly spreads all over the body and eventually affects the respiratory system. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), on Thursday, convened a meeting of its mediation and security council to discuss political developments in the region. The meeting discussed the announced exit of three of its members from the bloc, Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali. It also discussed the situation in Senegal following the postponement of the election that was scheduled to be held later this month. As you are all aware, our region is in the spotlight once again this crucial meeting has been convened to address these recent developments and challenges faced in the sub-region, said Nigerias foreign minister and Chair of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council Yusuf Tuggar. He added that it is incumbent on the leaders of the bloc to devise solutions to the challenges bedevilling the region. Mr Tuggar also noted that while the bloc seeks solutions, it must remain committed to the principles of democratic governance and safeguarding the right of our people to freely elect their leaders. He further commended the collective efforts of all our Member States in upholding the decision by ECOWAS on those Member States that have deviated from constitutional governance. According to Mr Tuggar, the meeting provides the bloc with an opportunity to assess the challenges presented by the decision of the withdrawing countries, and the potential implications for the lives of their people as well as ECOWAS. The meeting also reviewed the unfolding situation in Senegal and developed a plan to navigate the resulting complexities. Speaking at the meeting, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Alieu Touray, said, Despite our collective efforts to create a conducive and peaceful environment for our community citizens, the facts on the ground show that we still have some more work to do collectively. On the three countries who announced their exit from the bloc, Mr Touray said ECOWAS was hoping to make more progress in electoral transitions before the announcement which he called an unfortunate turn of events. Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso on 28 January in a joint statement announced they were exiting ECOWAS, citing what they said were inhumane sanctions, and deviation of the bloc from its founding principles amongst others. ECOWAS had responded that it did not receive any notification on the said withdrawal. Mr Touray during his speech clarified that the bloc received individual notification from each country on 29 January. While these claims have no real basis, the hasty decision of withdrawal of membership of ECOWAS did not take into account the conditions for withdrawal of membership from ECOWAS, as espoused in the 1993 ECOWAS Revised Treaty but more importantly, the three Member States have not reflected on the implications of this decision on the citizens, he said. On Senegal, Mr Touray said the postponement of the election and the presidents tenure have engendered a crisis in the country and the sub-region. These unfolding events in the region are posing threats to peace and political stability in our Community, he noted. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Katsina State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Zainab Musawa, on Thursday, said the state government is considering creating a special court to prosecute gender violence offenders in the state. Ms Musawa, who spoke during an interview with selected journalists in Katsina, said the state government was disturbed by the rate of sexual and gender-based violence in the state. We have launched collaborative partnerships with some law enforcement agencies, government institutions, with ministries. We are in discussions with the High Court about opening a gender-based violence court where the VAP law will be used directly, timeline. We are in discussions with the police too and the CP has promised to help in tackling gender-based violence. We intend to bring the crime rate low. The ministry has launched a Gender-Based Violence Centre, we also have a helpline for victims to call to report cases of violence not only against you but others. Its for both males and females and weve recorded a lot of cases. Weve solved some of these cases and weve taken some to the appropriate authorities, she said. She said some of the achievements the ministry recorded include getting ample data on women cooperative groups, passage, assent and domestication of violence against persons (VAP), and meeting World Bank women empowerment criteria, among others. Women empowerment The commissioner said the state government through her ministry has registered 400,000 individual women from 7,000 cooperative groups to benefit from women empowerment programmes. Ms Musawa said the state government is reviving four centres including the Ajiwa Pottery Centre, Daura Bakery Centre, Kankia oil extraction and Malumfashi grain processing centres to empower more women in the state. The State Government is making effort on a lot of women empowerment programmes in the state, especially on agriculture and SME. I assure you that women will always form a percentage on the total figure of any state, federal and World Bank empowerment that would come to the state. We are also going to leverage the World Bank empowerment project. And this is a grant thats going to be provided. Its about N60,000 for each to be financially included, Ms Musawa said. The commissioner said the grant to be provided would cover educational and health support for the benefitting women across the 34 local government areas in the state. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print President Bola Tinubu has signed the Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024, into law. The bill, which was passed by the House of Representatives on July 27, 2023, and the Senate on November 14, 2023, was sponsored by Babajimi Benson, who represents Ikorodu Federal Constituency of Lagos State. The Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024, seeks to address the development and environmental concerns of host communities and sets aside five per cent of the actual annual operating expenditures of power generating companies (GENCOs) from the preceding year for the development of their respective host communities. READ ALSO:Islamic group asks Tinubu to intervene as cost of living crisis worsens The Bill further provides that the funds set aside for the development of host communities will be received, managed, and administered for infrastructure development in the host communities by a reputable Trustee/Manager to be jointly appointed by the respective GENCO and their host community. Ajuri Ngelale Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Nigerian government has set up a ministerial committee towards resolving the challenges associated with gas supply to power-generating companies (GenCos) in the country. Bolaji Tunji, special adviser on strategic communication and media relations to the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday. Earlier in the month, the Nigerian government attributed the main cause of poor power supply in the country to the low supply of gas to generating companies. The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) had in January said that there was a gradual decrease in available generation into the grid due to gas constraints. The company said this impacted the quantum of bulk power available on the transmission grid for onward transmission to the distribution load centres nationwide. On Thursday, the statement said in a bid towards finding a lasting solution to the challenges, the Ministry of Power in conjunction with the Ministry of Petroleum Resources (Gas) set up a ministerial committee towards resolving the crisis. In a bid towards finding a lasting solution to challenges associated with gas supply to power generating companies (GenCos) in the country and general improvement across the power sector value chain, Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu in conjunction with the Ministry of Petroleum Resources (Gas) has set up a ministerial committee towards resolving the crisis, Mr Tunji said. He said the committee will consist of representatives from the two ministries, gas suppliers, the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and stakeholders in the electricity value chain sector. He explained that the two top government officials acknowledged the need for innovative thinking in resolving the gas supply challenge to the GenCos. According to the statement, Mr Adelabu said the two ministries should work together to find a lasting solution to the problem, wondering why the issue of gas supply to the power sector was not prioritised in view of the importance of the sector to economic development. He also suggested that payment for domestic gas supply should be denominated in naira instead of dollars. If we are serious about the economic development of the country, we need to solve the problem of gas supply today. We should look at the possibility of mandating the gas suppliers to price in naira. The domestic supply is just a fraction of what the gas suppliers supply to the international market, so paying in naira should not be a problem, he said. Mr Adelabu added that in order to further resolve the gas supply challenge, the GenCos must enter a contractual arrangement with the gas suppliers. With such contractual arrangements with gas suppliers, the minimum requirement that should be supplied to the generating companies would be clearly stated, thus eliminating the present situation where the generating companies are only operating at about 20 per cent of their installed capacity, he said. He also emphasised the importance of liquidity in the power sector value chain. We cannot overemphasize the importance of liquidity in the sector, the generating company has to cover their overheads, maintain and service their machinery and most importantly, pay for gas which is the raw materials needed for production. The only way to sustain production is payment, he added. Also speaking, Ekperikpe Ekpo, minister of state for petroleum resources (Gas), said the major challenge with the gas supply is due to the vandalization of the gas pipeline in the Niger Delta. This has affected production from the Nigeria Liquified Natural Gas (NLNG) company which is producing below capacity, Mr Ekpo said. He, however, assured that the OB3 line which supplies gas to the northern part of the country would soon be commissioned to enable supply to the northern part of the country. Knowing the importance of gas supply to generating companies and the industries, we held a stakeholders meeting on Tuesday with gas suppliers in order to know why there has not been an adequate supply of gas to generating companies, we need to work together to resolve this, he said. Mr Ekpo also agreed with the suggestion that payment for domestic gas supply should be in naira. However, this should be legislated on. We can both meet Mr President on this, once we agree on modalities as he is the only one that can give the directives, he added. He expressed grave concerns about the vandalization of the pipeline in the Niger Delta, noting that his major concern is to find a solution to the problem. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The police have killed menbers of another gang of kidnappers terrorising Abuja, Kaduna, Kogi, and Nasarawa states. The Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said the gang members killed early Thursday by operatives of the intelligence unit of the Nigerian Police, the DFI-IRT, were also involved in the supplying of arms to other bandits operating in the areas. The gang was said to have been involved in kidnapping and gun-running. Members of the gang were killed at their hideout around Gitata, along Keffi Gidan Wire Road, Nasarawa State, while 4 AK47 rifles, other dangerous weapons, and ammunition were recovered from them, according to a statement posted by Mr Adejobi via his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Thursday. This came about a week after the police announced the killing the leader of a kidnap gang in Abuja. The new FCT Commissioner of Police, Bennett Igweh, had ordered that the police should take the fight to all bandits hideouts in the territory. Police spokesperson, Mr Adejobi said the latest operation is part of the ongoing activities of the Nigerian police against crimes and criminality in the country, and especially to curb the cases of incessant kidnapping. Read the police statement in full: INTERNAL SECURITY: AGAIN, POLICE ENGAGE, NEUTRALIZE NOTORIOUS KIDNAPPERS, GUNRUNNERS, RECOVER ARMS. The DFI-IRT of the Nigeria Police Force has recorded yet another feat in the ongoing fight against crime and criminality in the country, as part of the sustained efforts to cleanse the system of criminals, most especially kidnappers. In the early hours of February 8, 2024, some notorious kidnappers and gun runners, who have been terrorizing Abuja, Kaduna, Kogi, and Nasarawa states, were neutralized by IRT operatives at their hideout around Gitata, along Keffi Gidan Wire Road, Nasarawa State. Similarly, four (4) AK47 rifles, dangerous weapons, and a bag of ammunition were recovered. These neutralised individuals have also been involved in supplying arms to bandits operating within the same axis. This successful operation, conducted in the early hours of Thursday, demonstrates the unwavering commitment of the NPF to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens. We will continue to employ all necessary measures to rid our communities of criminal elements and maintain peace and order across the nation. ACP OLUMUYIWA ADEJOBI, mnipr, mipra, fCAI, FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER, FORCE HEADQUARTERS, ABUJA 8th February, 2024 Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Acting Director of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) IT Hub (NITHub), at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, Victor Odumuyiwa, has criticised Nigerias education system, even as he seeks its disruption to align with goals and not just the processes. Mr Odumuyiwa, who spoke on the theme: Empowering Tomorrow: Unleashing the Potentials of Gen Z for Disruptive Innovation, was the guest lecturer at the second edition of Professor Ogundipe Innovative Challenge (POIC)- an initiative of Professor Ogundipe Innovation and Science Foundation (POISF). The lecturer, who queried the design, curriculums, and length of academic programmes offered by Nigerian tertiary institutions, said what takes place on the campuses is merely the offering of courses and not proper learning. According to him, innovation is paramount for Nigerias economic growth, global competitiveness, national security, and resource efficiency. He said Generation Z, described as those born between the years 1997 and 2010, are characterised as inventors, artists, and entrepreneurs, and so do not have the patience to focus on theories but practicals. He said: I still wonder who decided to make some degrees five-year or four-year courses. At MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology), what is important is to take a certain number of courses, and brilliant students could decide to finish in three years what is designed for five years, and they are awarded their certificates. What happens in our institutions is no longer learning but just offering courses. We need to disrupt the processes to allow innovations and creativities which this generation is known for. The lecturer advised the participants, particularly the young innovators, to prioritise patience, strategic partnerships, and collaboration, and that they should identify platforms for opportunities, as enablers of growth. Ideas alone dont rule the world but implementers of ideas do, he said. About innovation challenge The immediate past Vice-Chancelllor of UNILAG in whose name the competition and a foundation was instituted, Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, said it was the creation of the students and a select staff of the Faculty of Science where he once served as the dean. Mr Ogundipe, a researcher and Professor of Botany, said he was only approached to provide support, and that he never imagined that the initiative would germinate so quickly. He said: So we are not here to celebrate Ogundipe but the students of the Faculty of Science who in their wisdom, and with the guidance of their lecturers, came up with this idea. They even went on to register a Foundation as a platform to nurture the idea. The programme started in 2019 and from what I have seen, this project will be taken far beyond what it has become today. He thanked dignitaries in attendance including an octogenarian who founded the institutions Chemical Engineering Department, Ayo Ogunye; the Lagos State Governor and his deputy, Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Obafemi Hamzat respectively, who were represented, among numerous others. UNILAG VC speaks The Vice Chancellor of UNILAG, Folasade Ogunsola, commended the participants in the challenge, particularly the finalists, urging them to take charge of their future by being innovative and creative, saying there are limited jobs available to serve everyone. She said: Were a country of an estimated 223 million people, and 70 per cent are youth. But one thing we surely do not have in large supply are jobs waiting for them. The future can only happen by creating new jobs, creating new enterprises, and new businesses for people to conquer. At the University of Lagos, what we are working intentionally to produce are those who will create jobs and create new entities. And so were focused on ensuring that innovation happens and not just about sharing knowledge. She said that Professor Ogundipe as the 12th vice-chancellor took innovation and entrepreneurship to new heights, and Im not surprised we are celebrating the second edition of POIC. And I want to ask for the young people here. Think outside the box, think about how youre going to make Nigeria the best in the world and that can only happen by challenging your mind and looking for solutions to problems, she added. Winners emerge Meanwhile, Team Neptune from UNILAG with a project on bioengineering emerged winner of the competition. It won N1 million cash prize and free training from Opolo Global Innovation, a hub for talent promotion. Team Horizon from the Lagos State University (LASU) came second with an idea on technology for farmers. It won N750,000 and free training from Opolo Global Innovation Hub. Also, Team Ilucens, also from UNILAG, and Tfree from the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), emerged in third and fourth positions with their ideas on food processing and health technology. They also received N500,000 and 100,000 with free training from Opolo Global Innovation Hub, respectively. According to the Dean of the Faculty of Science in UNILAG and Chairman of POISF, Elijah Oyeyemi, the competition provides a platform for students to develop hands-on skills in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). He said the target is to build students to be problem solvers and job creators. According to the organisers, the applications opened in 2020, and 947 applicants registered in 199 teams with 50 proposals. Subsequently, 10 semi-finalists were drawn from the total applicants and five of them made it to the final round. $15,000 donation As the father of the day, Ayodele Ogunye, the Executive Vice Chairman of Nautilus Nigeria Engineering and Construction Limited, announced a donation of $5,000 to the foundation. In his remarks, Mr Ogunye said the POIC is an investment into the future of Nigerian youth. The students are smart, capable, and talented. All that is needed is to create the platform that will build the capabilities of the youth to find their expression and exposure, he noted. The Chairman of the event, Kola Adesina, who is the Group Managing Director of Sahara Power Group, doubled Mr Ogunyes donation. Mr Adeshina was represented by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company, Folake Soetan, who expressed the desire to convert the students ideas into generative impact alongside viable and profitable businesses. She said: This laudable initiative couldnt have been more apt and timely, as our dear nation grapples with a series of challenges today. Our economy is groaning under the weight of deregulation, devaluation, insecurity, economic downturn, and a host of many other issues that were all aware of. In the developed nations, a lot of them have used innovation, creativity, and different social experiments to achieve greatness. As such, I believe this ideation competition, where student groups compete to solve real-world problems, is not only timely but germane. I believe the goal of this programme is to foster real-life innovative solutions to specific challenges that are facing our country at this time. Lagos States commitment Representing the Lagos State Government, the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Tolani Sule, said the government is impressed with the initiative, saying it aligns with its administrations agenda on education and technology. Mr Sule said for the development of Nigeria, universities must be very innovative to conduct research to bring new technologies and new ideas. The government is identifying with this great project because of its passion for education and technology. Any institution promoting such is promoting the agenda of the government and so we are fully interested in it, he said. Oyindamola Ogunsanwo, who also represented the Lagos State First Lady, Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, said since its first edition, the initiative has been encouraging youth to break barriers, make positive impacts, and significantly contribute to the growth of the society. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Arm Holdings has enjoyed a fantastic run since its IPO. Michael M. Santiago Arm Holdings soared as high as 64% on Thursday after it reported third-quarter earnings results. The better-than-expected earnings highlighted Arm's growing exposure to artificial intelligence. Arm Holdings went public in September after its proposed merger with Nvidia was shot down by regulators. Arm Holdings stock soared as much as 64% on Thursday after the company reported better-than-expected third-quarter earnings and highlighted its growing exposure to artificial intelligence. Arm Holdings went public in September after its proposed $40 billion merger with Nvidia was dashed due to regulatory concerns back in 2022. The earnings results show that Nvidia's proposed deal for Arm would have been a boon for the company if it had gone through. Arm Holdings gained $47 billion in market capitalization on Thursday, jumping to a $126 billion market valuation. Here are the key results from Arm's third-quarter earnings report: Revenue: $824 million, vs analyst estimates of $763 million Adjusted earnings per share: $0.29, vs analyst estimates of $0.25 The company's bullish guidance for 2024, in which it increased its adjusted earnings per share estimate to $1.20 - $1.24 from prior guidance of $1.00 - $1.10, helped boost excitement for Arm Holdings stock. The company also increased its 2024 sales forecast to $3.16 billion - $3.21 billion from prior guidance of $2.96 billion - $3.08 billion. "We are also seeing strong momentum and tailwinds from all things AI. From the most complex devices on the planet for training and inference, the NVIDIA Grace Hopper 200, to edge devices such as the Gemini Nano Pixel 6 from Google or the Samsung Galaxy S24, more and more AI is running on more end devices, and that's all running on Arm," ARM CEO Rene Haas said on the earnings call. Here's what Wall Street is saying about Arm's earnings results. Goldman Sachs: 'We are particularly bullish on the Data Center opportunity' "Consistent with our thesis at the time of our initiation, we expect Arm to not only grow dollar content in smartphones, primarily through higher royalty rates, but to also extend its reach across applications to which it is under-indexed today including Data Center, Automotive, and IoT," Goldman Sachs said in a note on Thursday. Story continues "We are particularly bullish on the Data Center opportunity given Arm's power-efficient characteristics and growing customer traction across the likes of Amazon (Graviton CPU), Microsoft (Cobalt CPU) and Nvidia (Grace CPU)," Goldman said. Goldman Sachs reiterated its "Buy" rating and increased its price target to $95 from $65. JPMorgan: Earnings results show 'a strong growth profile' for Arm "The rise of accelerated compute/AI workloads in the datacenter, edge, and endpoints is driving the requirement for significantly more compute capability and power efficiency per device and motivating ARM's customer to adopt their highest performance compute IP and host of other IP building blocks which is driving higher levels of licensing activity (and $$ spend)," JPMorgan explained in a Thursday note. All of this is creating "a strong growth profile" for Arm's licensing and royalty units. "Overall the solid results/outlook is tracking in-line to our investment thesis where we believe Arm is well-positioned to drive an 18%+ revenue CAGR (40% EPS CAGR) for the next three years on higher IP content (driving higher royalty rates), market share gains against proprietary/legacy compute architectures, and ARM's growing market penetration into the highest growth segments of the market like AI, auto, IoT, and datacenter compute," JPMorgan said. JPMorgan reiterated its "Overweight" rating and increased its price target to $100 from $70. Read the original article on Business Insider The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Olayemi Cardoso, will appear before the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions today to speak on the state of the nations economy. The meeting between the CBN governor and the lawmakers was scheduled to commence by 9 a.m. at the Senate Complex, Abuja . Chairman of the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions, Adetokunbo Abiru, disclosed this at the last sitting of members of the committee on Tuesday. Last Wednesday, the Senate Committee summoned Nigerias central bank chief to appear before members of the committee to discuss the situation of the nations economy that is biting hard on Nigerians. Mr Cardoso was supposed to appear before the Senate committee on Tuesday but the meeting was postponed till today because he appeared before the House of Representatives on that day to discuss the same issue. President Bola Tinubu halted the corruption-ridden petroleum subsidy scheme and subsequently announced the unification of the foreign exchange system. The value of Nigerias naira has declined since the commencement of the unification policy as the currency is weighed down by illiquidity and speculative practices among market operators and street traders. Living condition The economic hardship has forced many Nigerians into poverty as many could not bear the high cost of living in the country. There have been protests in different parts of the country against the high cost of living. Some Northern leaders under the aegis of Arewa Initiative for the Defense and Promotion of Democracy (AIDPD) claimed that many protests in some parts of the country against the high cost of living were sponsored by politicians. The group said politicians especially the opposition parties are taking advantage of the harsh economy to incite the masses against the government. Chairman of the Arewa Initiative for the Defense and Promotion Democracy, Shehu Maaji, disclosed this at a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday. He cautioned politicians to stop inciting the public against the government. Those disgruntled politicians and other unpatriotic elements who have perfected plans to mobilise bogguss and society organisations (CSOs) to stage shantom protests across the country to smear the image of this administration should stop evil machinations. Those disgruntled politicians who are using some clerics through misinformation to issue statements condemning this administration without any good reason should desist forthwith in the interest of our beloved nation. We are not averse to any form of legitimate protest to show grievances to the governments policy or programme, provided it is done in good faith and under the laws of our beloved country, Nigeria. We frown at the idea of sponsoring people to stage fake protests for the financiers to score cheap political mileage by discrediting the current administration, Mr Maaji said. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Soldiers of the 6 Brigade, 93 Battalion of the Nigerian Army have arrested a woman in Taraba State while allegedly trying to pick up a ransom for a kidnap victim. The spokesperson of the Brigade, Olobodunde Oni, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday. Janet Igohia, 31, was arrested after allegedly picking up N1.5 million cash, being ransom payment for a victim abducted at Chanchangi in Takum LGA of the state, Mr Oni said. The suspect, it was learnt, was married to the second-in-command to the late notorious bandit in Benue State, Hana Terwase. She is currently married to the leader of a violent extremist group in southern Taraba. According to her, she had previously been married to high-profile criminals such as the late Terkibi Gemaga aka Mopol, a notorious kidnapper who was killed by troops five years ago. She revealed that she also got married to late Gana Terwase, another notorious criminal who was killed during a joint special force operation three years ago, he said. READ ALSO: Mr Oni, a lieutenant, also disclosed that one Joshua Idah, 45, an alleged notorious gunrunner, was also arrested. He said Mr Idaho was supplying arms to criminals within Taraba and other parts of the country. Acting on intelligence the troops trailed the suspect, leading to his arrest in Ibbi town of Ibbi Local Government Area of the state, while he was driving to Kaduna State in a blue Volkswagen Sharon vehicle with registration number Rivers SKN-390AA. Mr Oni said on interrogation, Mr Idaho confessed he was going to Katsina State to bring AK-47 rifles for which he received part payment of N300,000. After a thorough search on the vehicle, troops recovered 1 PK machine gun, 399 rounds of 7.62 mm special ammunition and 3 AK-47 rifle magazines, he said. The statement also revealed that soldiers deployed in Mararaba Baissa in Donga LGA apprehended two other suspected gunrunners who were allegedly involved in extra-judicial killings and cattle rustling, with the sum of N600,000 recovered from them. The money recovered from the suspects was part of the proceeds from their illegal activities and 2 Techno mobile phones, he added. He gave the names of the suspects as Alhaji Adamu Damisa (40 years old) and Usman Isah (44 years old). Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Sultan of Sokoto, Saad Abubakar, has asked the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate the activities of alleged essential commodities hoarders. Mr Abubakar made the call when he received the ICPC Commissioner in charge of Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara States, Garba Tukur-Idris, who visited him in Sokoto. Hoarding foodstuffs is corruption. Some marketers hoard food items to obtain gains, especially during Ramadan fasting. I have been talking against such attitudes. Hoarding essential commodities with intent to obtain higher gain is against religious doctrines and the laws prohibit such acts because it subjects people to hardship, Mr Abubakar said. The Sultan challenged the ICPC and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on a holistic and seamless approach to anti-corruption flight, stressing that the struggle needs to be supported at all levels. He reassured the ICPC of the support of traditional rulers in checking corruption. The Sultan also cautioned the agency against selective investigations which he said was detrimental to the struggle as well as public recognition. READ ALSO: Anti-corruption agencies must succeed. We are ready to support you at every level. The Sultanate council has reprinted books authored by Sheikh Usman Danfodio and his disciples on corruption. He enjoined the anti-corruption agencies to be honest and sincere in their dealings, adding that traditional rulers were ready to support them and stand for them everywhere. Speaking earlier, the ICPC commissioner said the agencys war against corruption is key to good governance, growth and development of the country. Mr Tukur-Idris thanked Mr Abubakar for his support of the anti-corruption crusade, adding that the commission was committed to fighting corruption. According to him, the impact of corruption is manifested in underdevelopment and poverty which makes the prospect of investment unappealing. He appealed for collaboration geared towards projecting Nigeria in a positive image to encourage internal and foreign investment while fostering development. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Federal High Court, Abuja, on Friday, dismissed a suit filed by Hudu Yunusa-Ari, the suspended Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Adamawa State, seeking protection against arrest, detention or prosecution by the police and others. The judge, James Omotosho, in a judgement, dismissed the suit for lacking in merit. Mr Omotosho held that Mr Yunusa-Ari, in his fundamental rights enforcement suit, made an elaborate show by trying to shield himself from being arrested, detained or prosecuted by security agencies, but that there was no ground where such immunity could have been granted by the court. INEC had last July filed charges against Mr Yunusa-Ari, over his illegal declaration of cooked-up results at the last Adamawa State governorship election on 16 April 2023. He caused a stir when he illegally declared the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Aisha Dahiru, popularly known as Binani, the election winner a day after the supplementary polls. When he made the declaration, votes were still being counted, and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Ahmadu Fintiri, was in a clear lead. Ms Dahirus legal efforts to have the courts affirm the winner of the election based on the fake results declared by Mr Yunusa failed, with the Supreme Court dismissing his case in January. Delivering judgement on Mr Yunusa-Aris suit seeking to block his arrest and trial for electoral fraud, Mr Omotosho of the Federal High Court agreed with the respondents that the suspended REC derailed his claims by arguing that the respondents subjected him to a media trial. He observed that Mr Yunusa-Ari also claimed that his fundamental right was breached by the respondents for posting negative information against him on social media, while insisting that he was not giving fair hearing. Fair hearing not breached But Mr Omotosho held that the issue of fair hearing had nothing to do with publications of newsworthy matters by the media practitioners in order not to fail in their responsibility of dissemination of information to the society. He said news reported by the media is not a court of law and that the media, as the fourth estate of the realm, must be free to report at all times. Besides, he said the applicant had not shown that he was dragged to any court or tribunal but only claimed that the respondents engaged in a media trial against him. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the suspended REC had, in a suit marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/563/2023, sued the Inspector-General (I-G) of Police, and the Nigeria Police Force as 1st and 2nd respondents. Also joined in the suit filed by his lawyer, Jibrin Okutepa, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), included the Attorney-General of Federation and Minister of Justice, Director of the State Security Service (SSS) and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as 3rd to 5th respondents respectively. Mr Yunusa-Ari, who sought eight reliefs, prayed an order of perpetual injunction, restraining the respondents from arresting, detaining or causing his arrest or detention, harassment or intimidation for carrying out his lawful duties as the INEC REC in Adamawa during the supplementary governorship election held in the state on 15 April 2023. He also sought an order directing the respondents to publish an apology in two national dailies for the unlawful and unconstitutional media trials and negative press interviews, press statements/release, social media posts, publications etc against him for carrying out his lawful duties as INEC REC. Grounds of his suit Giving six grounds, he said he was the REC during 23 February 2023 and March 18, 2023, general elections, including the supplementary poll on 15 April 2023. He said after the general elections, he issued an interim report which raised a lot of criminal issues against security agencies and some INEC staff. He said the respondents only considered part of his report, leading to the conduct of a supplementary governorship and state house of assembly elections on 15 April 2023 in the state. He averred that upon the conclusion of the supplementary poll, he wrote his report and to his total shock and dismay, instead of investigating the persons named in his report and the issues raised in the said report, the respondents had continuously embarked on media trials against him. Mr Yunusa-Ari alleged that the respondents and their agents, without any valid judgment and conviction by a competent court, had made several press and social media pronouncements against him that he was guilty of a criminal offence in the performances of his lawful duties as INEC REC. He described the acts as a gross violation of his constitutional right to fair hearing. Suit dismissed But delivering the judgement, Mr Omotosho held that the only issue to determine in the case was whether the fundamental rights of Yunusa-Ari were breached by any of the respondents. The judge said though the fundamental rights are sacrosanct to every human being, the rights are not absolute. He held that the suspended REC filed the suit quoting Section 35 of Chapter 4 of the 1999 Constitution to prevent himself from being prosecuted for the role he played in the 2023 Adamawa governorship election. This court will not shield any person against investigation or prosecution if a prima facie case is established against such person, the judge said. Mr Omotosho described the suit as highly unmeritorious. This suit is hereby dismissed for lack of merit, he said. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Two out of three persons abducted by gunmen at a relaxation centre in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, are still in captivity, 14 days later. The three victims were abducted on 27 January at ME Lounge, a bar at Osongama Housing Estate in Uyo. The police spokesperson in the state, Odiko Macdon, told PREMIUM TIMES, Wednesday, that he was not aware of the incident. The State Commissioner for Internal Security, Koko Essien, however, confirmed the incident to this newspaper on Wednesday. In his response to a PREMIUM TIMES enquiry, Mr Essien, a retired army general, said via a text message, One person has been released. We are seeking to get the other two out. He did not provide details of the incident. He did not also provide a further response when asked if the kidnappers were demanding ransom for the release of the others who are still in captivity. The incident A radio talk show host, Edwin Ebiese, otherwise known as MC Governor, was among the first people to report the incident in a Facebook post. Three people kidnapped from ME Lounge, Osongama Estate. Again, God gave me another opportunity to live, he wrote in the post. Narrating the incident to PREMIUM TIMES, on Wednesday, Mr Ebiese said they were watching the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations at the lounge when gunmen invaded the place and took the three men away. I think 75 minutes into the match, gunmen came in and ordered everybody to go down and after they went away with three men, he said. There was no security on that day, he added when asked if there was no security at the bar which is often patronised by top politicians in the state. I went there to watch the ball, I dont know the names of the people that were kidnapped but I know that the gunmen left with three people, he further said when asked if the identities of the victims were known. Findings by this newspaper revealed that one of the abducted persons was Abasiakan Eshiet, the chairperson of the Peoples Democratic Party in Nsit Atai Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. A chieftain of the party in the state who asked not to be named as he was not authorised to talk to journalists on the matter, told PREMIUM TIMES that Mr Eshiet has been released by his abductors. It is not clear why the three were targeted by the gunmen, but Akwa Ibom State, which is famed as one of the most peaceful states in the country, has been experiencing some security challenges lately. The incident occurred less than a month after gunmen kidnapped a High Court judge in the state. The gunmen shot dead a police operative who was attached to the female judge. The judge, Joy Unwana, was later freed. PREMIUM TIMES, Tuesday, reported that the police arrested 22 suspects over the killing of a police inspector, Usang Egbe, in Uyo. The gunmen stormed the slain officers residence and fired sporadic shots to scare away residents and passersby before hacking the inspector to death with a machete. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The 2023 governorship candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in Akwa Ibom State, John Akpanudoedehe, has described as blackmail the news that he has joined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Mr Akpanudoedehe, a former APC National Secretary, stated this in an interview with PREMIUM TIMES on Thursday. He also dismissed the rumours that he will return to the All Progressives Congress (APC). He said he could not return to the APC, except if some conditions were met. I want to tell the people that we are yet to decide on where to go and what to do. That will be decided after consultations. You know, there is a popular proverb that says that if you want to prepare a hat, you start on your knees first before you put on your head. We have to do a lot in politics. The conditions before joining another party will be to consult with your base (supporters), then the party, NNPP to know where they are going and what they are up to. Even when the National Leader of the NNPP may be considering joining the APC, we have to discuss that with our supporters. For now, I am still a member of the NNPP. So you have to continue to talk to the national leadership of the NNPP to see where they are going before you can make up your mind, he said. Originally a PDP member Mr Akpanudoedehe, a former senator, was originally a member of the PDP, a platform on which he was elected a senator, and later served as the minister of state for the FCT. For about two decades, he was the face of opposition politics in Akwa Ibom after defecting to the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria, which later metamorphosed into the APC after merging with other political parties. The former senator was the national secretary of the APC, a platform on which he aspired for the 2023 governorship in Akwa Ibom but was outmanoeuvred by Godswill Akpabio and others who helped Akanimo Udofia to win the party ticket despite Mr Udofia joining the party about a week before the party primary Dissatisfied with the partys decision, Mr Akpanudoedehe left the APC for NNPP where he secured the partys ticket for the governorship election, but lost in the general election to Umo Eno of the PDP. Mr Akpanudoedehe said the APC has been unfair to him despite his sacrifices for the party for years. APC has been unfair to me. In 2015, what they did to me and in 2019. Everything was given to people who never worked for the party, so we have to consider a lot of things before we make that move. It wasnt my intention to leave the party but the hierarchy of the party then, for whatever was their motive then, denied me the (2023 governorship) ticket. I had only a very few windows, three days to move, so that I can be on the ballot because you know each time they took a ticket from me they resorted to galvanise my political base. That was why I went to NNPP and they were so kind to put me on the ballot. PREMIUM TIMES asked Mr Akpanudoedehe if he would work under Mr Akpabio as the leader of the party in the state, being the highest political office holder in the APC from the state for now. Leadership is different and you present yourself as one. When you present yourself as one, then when we reach there we will cross it, he responded. We dont have problems functioning, everybody knows their level. For instance, now he has been made the Senate President then why would he want to disturb other people from aspiring to be what they want to be? Stay on your lane. Nobody disturbs you, then dont disturb other people, he added. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print A Federal High Court, Abuja, on Friday, granted bail to Cyril Ndifon, the suspended dean of the Faculty of Law, University of Calabar (UNICAL), in the sum of N250 million with two sureties in the like sum. Justice James Omotosho, in a ruling, also admitted Sunny Anyanwu, a lawyer charged alongside Mr Ndifon by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), to a N50 million bail with two sureties, making a total of N300 million for the duo. Justice Omotosho, who said that the court was inclined to grant them bail in the interest of justice, held that the defendants had made out a prima facie case for the court to exercise its discretion in their favour. Mr Ndifon, a professor of law, was re-arraigned on 25 January as the 1st defendant and Mr Anyanwu as the 2nd defendant on an amended four-count charge of alleged sexual harassment and attempt to pervert the course of justice. Mr Anyanwu, who is one of the lawyers in the defence team, was joined in the amended charge filed on 22 January by the ICPC on the allegation that he called one of the prosecution witnesses on the phone during the pendency of the charge against Mr Ndifon to threaten her. The court had, in previous proceedings, denied the duo bail, on the ground that the witness, identified as TKJ (not real name) by the court, who was alleged to have been called on the phone, must be allowed to give her evidence before their bail hearing. NAN reports that TKJ, a female diploma student in UNICAL, concluded her testimony on Wednesday after she was cross-examined by the defence lawyer, Joe Agi, SAN. Delivering his ruling on Mr Ndifons bail application, Justice Omotosho admitted him to a N250 million bail with two sureties. The judge held that the two sureties, who must be owners of landed property in the FCT with registered titles and a minimum valuation of N150 million, must submit their certified bank statements to the registrar of the court. He also directed Mr Ndifon to submit his international passport to the court registrar. The judge ordered the suspended dean to sign an undertaking not to interfere with the case, be ready to stand his trial and not delay the trial. Also ruling on Mr Anyanwus bail plea, Justice Omotosho, who granted him a N50 million bail with two sureties, held that one of the sureties must have a property in FCT, but not with a registered title. The judge directed the sureties to file their bank statements and ordered Mr Anyanwu to equally sign an undertaking not to interfere with the trial, to be ready to stand his trial and not delay the trial. Justice Omotosho also ordered an accelerated hearing of the matter. He held that the court exercised the discretion in the defendants favour because of the nature of the offence and on health grounds. According to him, bail is a constitutional right granted to a person and is at the discretion of the court. However, it must be exercised judicially and judiciously, he said. Citing a Supreme Court decision, the judge said: In exercising such power, the court must be guided by the nature of the charge, the evidence supplied, the probability that the accused is ready to face his trial, the probability that the accused will not interfere with the trial. Justice Omotosho, however, held that the law establishing the instant offences did not make them a capital offence. He said the defendants averred that they were prepared for the trial and ready to provide sureties to take their bail, though the prosecution argued that the defendants might interfere with the trial or had started interfering with its witness. The judge held that deciding whether the accused would interfere with the witnesses or not would be likened to drawing a conclusion in the trial. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Amnesty International has urged Nigerian lawmakers to reject the bill seeking to regulate the activities of non-governmental organizations in Nigeria. The organization, in a post on X, formally known as Twitter, on Friday, described the legislation, sponsored by Sada Soli (Katsina, APC), as dangerous and oppressive, and promised to vigorously oppose the bill. Amnesty stated that the bill is intended to violate Nigerians human rights and gag civil society in the country. Amnesty International calls on the members of Nigerias House of Representatives to immediately reject the dangerous and oppressive bill reintroduced by Sada Soli (APC-Katsina) to violate Nigerians human rights and suppress civil society in the country. Amnesty International is concerned that rather than passing laws that would guarantee and ensure the social and economic rights of the people, Nigerian lawmakers are pushing to take away human rights, contrary to the Nigerian Constitution 1999 (as amended) @Speaker_Abbas @HouseNGR, the post reads. Also, Amnesty International stated that the bill poses a direct and serious threat to human rights and would exacerbate restriction of civic space, the rights to freedom of expression, assembly and association as well as media freedom in Nigeria. PREMIUM TIMES reported the introduction of the bill, which seeks to create an agency to regulate the activities of NGOs operating in the country. The bill was debated on Thursday and postponed to next week after some members of the House raised an alarm that they were yet to see the content of the bill. Subsequently, Speaker Abbas Tajudeen asked the bill to be stepped down so that members could read the content of the bill and adequately participate in the debate. Over the years, the National Assembly has made repeated attempts to pass the bill despite uproar by members of civil society organizations in the country. Activists have vehemently opposed the introduction of the NGO bill in Nigeria, viewing it as a threat to civil society and human rights. Their resistance is rooted in concerns that the legislation if passed, could undermine the vital work of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) by imposing restrictive regulations. The activists argue that the bill poses a risk to human rights, creating a platform for potential abuse and suppression of civil society activities. Despite repeated attempts by the National Assembly to pass the bill, these activists have consistently mobilized and raised awareness, and social and grassroots efforts to thwart its progression. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Authorities in Nigeria should immediately drop all charges against journalists Adisa-Jaji Azeez, Salihu Ayatullahi, Salihu Shola Taofeek, and Abdulrahman Taye Damilola, and allow them to work without fear of arrest, the Committee to Protect Journalists said on Friday. On Tuesday, police officers arrested Azeez, managing director, and Ayatullahi, editor-in-chief, of the privately owned The Informant247 news website, over reports published on November 10 and February 1 about corruption at Kwara State Polytechnic, Ayatullahi and Taofeek, the outlets publisher, told CPJ by phone. Azeez and Ayatullahi were arrested after responding to a request from the police headquarters in Ilorin, capital of western Nigerias Kwara State, to come in for questioning, following a complaint from the rector of the polytechnic Abdul Jimoh Mohammed about the outlets allegation that he was involved in fraud, those sources said. The journalists lawyer, A. J. Edun, told CPJ that he filed a fundamental rights lawsuit later that same day to guard against their prolonged detention. It remains before the court, he said. On Wednesday, a court released the journalists on bail, despite a police request to keep them in detention for another 21 days, and they are due back in court on February 13, Ayatullahi and Edun said. On February 7, police charged Azeez, Ayatullahi, Taofeek, and reporter Damilola with conspiracy under section 27(1)(b), and cyberstalking under section 24(1)(b), of Nigerias Cybercrimes Act, and defamation under section 393 of the penal code, according to a copy of the charge sheet, reviewed by CPJ, which described Taofeek, and Damilola as at large. Taofeek told CPJ that he and Damilola had gone into hiding for fear of arrest. If found guilty, the journalists face jail terms of up to seven years for conspiracy, three years with a fine of 7 million naira (US$4,966) for cyberstalking, and two years with an unspecified fine for defamation. Nigerian authorities should immediately drop all charges against journalists Adisa-Jaji Azeez, Salihu Ayatullahi, Salihu Shola Taofeek, and Abdulrahman Taye Damilola, and cease criminalizing the press, said Angela Quintal, head of CPJs Africa program from New York. The reckless detention of Nigerian journalists is totally unacceptable and emphasizes the need for reforms of the countrys laws to uphold, not violate press freedom. On February 3, a statement by Kwara State Polytechnic rejected The Informant247s reporting as false and called on it to desist from dragging the name of the institution into the mud, if not, the institution will not hesitate to take action. ALSO READ: Tinubu decries blanket stereotyping of Nigerians over cybercrimes Ayatullahi told CPJ that he and Azeez spent the night of February 6 in a small, dark cell with over 20 inmates, who had to sleep on top of each other and use a bucket as a urinal. Mohammed confirmed to CPJ by phone that he had filed a complaint with the police but he declined to provide further comment and referred CPJs questions to the police. CPJs calls and texts requesting comment from Kwara State police spokesperson Ejire-Adeyemi Adetoun did not receive any replies. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Rebuilding trust is not a one-dimensional task but a collective endeavour that requires commitment from the government, businesses, and civil society. As we strive to navigate the challenges of the global economy, restoring trust is not just a moral imperative but a strategic necessity for Nigerias sustainable growth and prosperity. It is time to mend the frayed fabric of trust and weave a narrative of a business-friendly Nigeria that beckons investors, fosters innovation, and ensures shared prosperity for all. Nigeria, a nation pulsating with the entrepreneurial spirit and brimming with abundant resources, keeps stumbling upon a hidden hurdle a seemingly intangible but deeply entrenched obstacle: the lack of trust. This pervasive atmosphere of suspicion, like a noxious weed, chokes the soil of our business environment, hindering growth and prosperity. To truly unlock the potential of our country, we must confront this issue head-on, understanding its insidious effects and fostering a culture of trust-based collaborations. The Foundations of Trust Trust is the bedrock upon which successful businesses are built. It is the currency of transactions, the lubricant of partnerships, and the cornerstone of investor confidence. The roots of the pervasive Nigerian trust deficiency lie in a complex web of historical experiences and contemporary realities. Decades of corruption and mismanagement have left scars of disillusionment on the country, breeding scepticism towards institutions and actors alike. Weak enforcement of laws further erodes confidence, fostering a sense of impunity and encouraging opportunistic behaviour. Information asymmetry, where access to vital knowledge is unevenly distributed, amplifies anxieties, breeding suspicion and hindering fair competition. These elements have created an environment in which cynicism thrives, hindering both local and foreign investments. The Economic Toll of Distrust The consequences of a lack of trust are far-reaching and multifaceted. Foreign direct investment remains tepid, as global investors are hesitant to commit resources to an environment perceived as unpredictable and fraught with corruption. Locally, businesses struggle to access credit, their proposals weighed down by the stigma of potential deceit. Innovation stalls, as collaboration and knowledge-sharing are stifled by the fear of exploitation. Moreover, the lack of trust exacerbates economic inequality, hindering the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that could otherwise contribute significantly to job creation and poverty alleviation. The domino effect of distrust ripples through every sector, stifling innovation and impeding the realisation of Nigerias true economic potential. Businesses, too, must play an active role in the rebuilding of trust. Embracing ethical practices, corporate social responsibility, and transparent operations can go a long way in fostering credibility. By prioritising long-term sustainability over short-term gains, businesses can contribute to reshaping the narrative surrounding Nigerias business environment. But despair is not a luxury we can afford. Recognising the gravity of the situation is the first step towards positive change. We must then embark on a collective journey of rebuilding trust, brick by brick. This demands a multi-pronged approach at every level of society. Restoring Trust: A Collaborative Endeavour Building trust is not an impossible feat; it is a collective responsibility, a shared endeavour requiring both individual commitment and systemic reform. At the individual level, we must embrace honesty and integrity in every interaction. From the corner shop owner, the roadside mechanic, the civil servant, to the corporate executive, each act of fairness, each promise kept, becomes a building block in a new foundation of trust. We must challenge our own biases, learn to see each other not as potential adversaries but as partners in progress. But individual efforts, however noble, are not enough. We need systemic reforms that strengthen institutions and uphold the rule of law. A transparent and accountable government, an efficient and impartial judiciary, and a robust regulatory framework are essential to creating an environment in which trust can flourish. Businesses, too, must play an active role in the rebuilding of trust. Embracing ethical practices, corporate social responsibility, and transparent operations can go a long way in fostering credibility. By prioritising long-term sustainability over short-term gains, businesses can contribute to reshaping the narrative surrounding Nigerias business environment. The journey to rebuilding trust will not be easy. It requires sustained effort, unwavering commitment, and a willingness to confront uncomfortable realities. But the potential rewards are immense. A business environment where trust reigns supreme unlocks a torrent of economic prosperity, fosters social cohesion, and lays the foundation for a brighter future for all Nigerians. The Role of Information and Communication Communication is pivotal in dispelling misconceptions and rebuilding trust. Governments and businesses must adopt open and transparent communication channels to keep the public informed about policy changes, economic developments, and corporate initiatives. Clear and honest communication helps bridge the gap between perception and reality, fostering a more informed and trusting society. Investing in education and fostering a culture of ethical behaviour are also crucial. When young minds are instilled with the values of integrity and responsibility, they become the architects of a future built on trust. Technology can be a powerful tool in this endeavour. Digital platforms can increase transparency, streamline processes, and facilitate secure transactions. By embracing innovation, we can create systems that minimise opportunities for corruption and build trust through efficiency. Releasing the Shackles The journey to rebuilding trust will not be easy. It requires sustained effort, unwavering commitment, and a willingness to confront uncomfortable realities. But the potential rewards are immense. A business environment where trust reigns supreme unlocks a torrent of economic prosperity, fosters social cohesion, and lays the foundation for a brighter future for all Nigerians. Rebuilding trust is not a one-dimensional task but a collective endeavour that requires commitment from the government, businesses, and civil society. As we strive to navigate the challenges of the global economy, restoring trust is not just a moral imperative but a strategic necessity for Nigerias sustainable growth and prosperity. It is time to mend the frayed fabric of trust and weave a narrative of a business-friendly Nigeria that beckons investors, fosters innovation, and ensures shared prosperity for all. Ibrahim Abdullahi Shelleng is a business development consultant, chartered stockbroker (ACS) and an associate member of the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investments (CISI) UK. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Arm Holdings (NASDAQ:ARM) just released a slew of positive data. However, you dont have to pounce on this opportunity yet, as a pullback may be imminent. I am bullish on ARM stock for the long term, but I encourage investors to resist the frenzy and time their entries carefully. Arm Holdings, typically just called Arm, is based in Great Britain, and the company specializes in chip-design technology. This technology is found in many of todays smartphones and personal computers (PCs). These devices are often enhanced with artificial intelligence (AI) functionalities nowadays. Thus, if the AI hardware market is doing well, then its reasonable to conclude that Arm is also doing well. Nonetheless, if the market is pricing in too much optimism for Arms future growth, sensible investors should probably just be patient and wait for a more favorable risk-to-reward scenario. ARM Stock: Get Ready for Price Target Hikes Even before todays jaw-dropping share-price move, analysts were moderately optimistic about ARM stock (see below for more details on that). Its understandable if some analysts like Arms growth prospects, especially if they feel that AI will give the PC and smartphone markets a boost in 2024. However, the bullish sentiment seems to be going into overdrive now, and soon, investors should expect many analysts to raise their price targets on Arm. Thats because ARM stock went vertical today, up more than 60% at one point and finishing 47.9% higher. Im already starting to see the price-target escalation happening. For example, Guggenheim analyst John DiFucci assigned a Buy rating to Arm shares and lifted his price target from $74 to $93. Meanwhile, Rosenblatt analyst Hans Mosesmann reiterated his Buy rating on ARM stock and raised his price target on the shares from $110 to $140. Its early, as Arms latest quarterly data release is still fresh, so dont be surprised if more Wall Street experts escalate their price targets on Arm shares during the next few days. Story continues Arm Gets a Boost from Shift to AI What drove Arm Holdings impressive Fiscal Q3-2024 results and optimistic guidance? The primary driver, reportedly, is artificial intelligence (AI)-led demand for the hardware that Arm designs. Arms executives indicated that a faster-than-expected shift to AI boosted the companys results. Whether the AI trend was the main driver or not, theres no denying that Arms Q3-2024 results reflected better-than-expected growth. Specifically, Arm previously guided for revenue of $720 million to $800 million but actually reported $824 million in revenue, up 14% year-over-year. This result also beat Wall Streets consensus estimate of $762 million. Turning to the bottom line, Arm posted adjusted earnings of $0.29 per share, up 32% year-over-year. This represents another Street beat since analysts only expected Arm to earn $0.25 per share. Looking ahead, Arm guided for current-quarter earnings of $0.28 to $0.32 per share, a range that easily exceeds the consensus estimate of $0.21 per share. Moreover, Arms management anticipates that the company will generate current-quarter revenue of $850 million to $900 million, a range thats substantially above Wall Streets consensus forecast of $780 million. I suspect that the market is panic-buying ARM stock as an expression of its worry that maybe the AI market is overblown, and theyre hoping that Arms results point to the AI market not being overblown. Regardless, its understandable if value-conscious and contrarian investors cant accept the notion that Arm Holdings should be worth 48% more today than it was yesterday. Is ARM Stock a Buy, According to Analysts? On TipRanks, ARM comes in as a Moderate Buy based on 12 Buys, five Holds, and one Sell rating assigned by analysts in the past three months. The average Arm Holdings stock price target is $87.13, implying 23.5% downside potential. If youre wondering which analyst you should follow if you want to buy and sell ARM stock, the most profitable analyst covering the stock (on a one-year timeframe) is John Vinh of KeyBanc, with an average return of 48.8% per rating and a 100% success rate. Click on the image below to learn more. Conclusion: Should You Consider ARM Stock? Since Arm Holdings chip designs are so pervasive in the smartphone and PC markets, it makes sense to feel bullish on the company for the long term. Right now, though, the market may be pricing in too much AI-market relief and optimism. So, what can people do if they want to invest in Arm Holdings? The answer, in my opinion, is to be patient. Its not unusual for a vertical share-price move to be followed by a retracement. Consequently, even though I like Arm Holdings long-term growth prospects, I wont consider buying ARM stock until it pulls back below $100 and, preferably, below $85. If this never occurs, I havent lost any money, though I might have lost an opportunity. Thats a chance Im willing to take as a contrarian investor who refuses to chase parabolic price moves. Disclosure How can we make sure that we retain our religious convictions and at the same time ensure that religion plays its true role as an asset for peace, not a liability? Is it true that religion brings peace, or is it a myth? We often say that religion, in itself, is all about peace and goodness, while the evil actions giving it a bad name come from other factors that have nothing to do with religion. Two such suggested factors are ignorance and greed. Cardinal Onaiyekan is insistent in the book that although we Nigerians pride ourselves as being very religious and we claim that our religion is for peace, yet our country is full of violent conflicts, sometimes said to be due to, or related to, religion. It is a tragic contradiction that we must resolve. How can we make sure that we retain our religious convictions and at the same time ensure that religion plays its true role as an asset for peace, not a liability? Is it true that religion brings peace, or is it a myth? We often say that religion, in itself, is all about peace and goodness, while the evil actions giving it a bad name come from other factors that have nothing to do with religion. Two such suggested factors are ignorance and greed. If humanity is to survive, we need to look more deeply into the relationship between God, religion and humanity. We can learn a lot from the record of history, he argues. Perhaps the most important lesson we can learn from the past is how not to repeat the errors that have brought so much calamity to the human race. We must now have the courage to look towards a future in which religion facilitates good relations, not only between God and humanity, but also among human beings living in fraternity and reconciled diversities; in peace and harmony. For this to happen, we need to revive and stress some eternal truths that we often prefer to ignore or neglect. Here are a few of them: We must distinguish between God and religion, no matter how lofty we think our religion is. Only God is eternal, absolute and unchangeable. While there is only one God, there are many religions, none of which can or has totally captured the nature of God. We can grasp only what He has revealed to us. But He will always remain a mystery beyond our full understanding. Religion is important as a structure available for man to regulate his relationship with God, individually and in community. God the Almighty does not need to be defended by us. It is we who need His protection and provident care. Those who go to war and kill in religious wars do so in the human interest. Cardinal Onaiyekan is one of the rare members of the clergy who respects African traditional religions. He argues that: We should not forget that in Nigeria the African Traditional Religion is a foundation of all our religious identities. It is the foundation for every one of us before we became one thing or the other. Every tribe and ethnic group in Nigeria had its own traditional religion before they got converted to the two major new religions. The conversion may be long ago or maybe recent but the fact is that there is a foundation of African traditional religion, which we must recognise. The Cardinal is clear that the terrorist surprise attack of Hamas on Israeli settlements and people on 7th October, killing over 1,000 innocent persons and abducting over 200 for ransom, is utterly condemnable. It was obvious that it could not have gone without a response from Israel. But, in the context of the realities of the Holy Land over the past 70 years, the attack was not without provocation, considering the long years of occupation and oppression of Palestinian Arabs. There are some basic values in our African traditional religions, which we share and that are the same as what we meet in both Islam and in Christianity. For example, the idea that there is one God, the creator of heaven and earth; a God who is good, a God who is the father, a God who will judge whatever you do; that this world is not our home, and we are only passing through. We believe in prayer; we believe in sacrifice; and we believe in certain basic moral norms, including truth, goodness, kindness, and forgiveness. In one way or the other, these are all found in our African traditional religions, which we have taken up into our various new faiths. The first article of faith of the Christian creed is, I believe in One God, the Father Almighty, Creator of Heaven and Earth. We hear the same from our Muslim neighbours, for whom the oneness of God is the most important truth of their faith. If this is so, we wonder why our people at times behave and speak as if there are more than one God. How else do we explain it when a Christian says with conviction that the God of the Muslims is different from the God of the Christian? We hear the same thing from some Muslims. If we cannot sincerely affirm our faith in One God, on what basis can we ever start talking to and relating with each other? In the final chapter of the book, Cardinal Onaiyekan says that in the land of the Bible, horrible belligerent activities are going on, claiming the lives of thousands of innocent men, women and children. The mass and social media are full of vivid images in real time of the tragedy on course, with no sign of stopping any time soon. The famous International community looks on in self-imposed impotence as the disproportionately militarily superior Israeli Defense Force (IDF) keeps pounding the thickly populated Gaza open prison with tons of bombs everywhere, not sparing mosques or churches, hospitals or refugee camps. The Cardinal is clear that the terrorist surprise attack of Hamas on Israeli settlements and people on 7th October, killing over 1,000 innocent persons and abducting over 200 for ransom, is utterly condemnable. It was obvious that it could not have gone without a response from Israel. But, in the context of the realities of the Holy Land over the past 70 years, the attack was not without provocation, considering the long years of occupation and oppression of Palestinian Arabs. The hostilities did not start on 7th October. He adds that although the Bible says an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, what is happening has gone beyond that and all limits have been crossed. Cardinal condemns the position of the United States government, which continues to block every attempt to impose a ceasefire through a Security Council resolution. He asks: if Christian values no longer mean much, what about our common humanity? Is it that the world has not moved beyond the logic of might is right even in the 21st century? There has to be limits to vengeance. He adds that in the midst of the tragedy, some religious leaders are turning what is a sad human tragedy into a religious game. We see this in our country. Some Muslim leaders claim that what is happening is an attack against Muslims, forgetting that there are Palestinian Christians in Gaza who are being bombed and whose ancestral homes and churches have been turned to rubble. Then on the other hand are some misguided Christian fanatics who see biblical justification from the Old Testament prophets, for example Amos 6:1-8, for crimes against humanity that cannot but be also crimes against God. Incidentally, they do not know, or they forget, that the same Amos has worse things to say about Israel itself in Amos 2:6-16. They further presume that in the Israeli-Arab standoff, the Christian has to be on the side of the state of Israel against the Arabs, not knowing that the few but significant, often neglected and ancient indigenous Christians in this crisis situation are to be found mainly among the Palestinian Arabs of Gaza and the West Bank, not among the Jews of Israel. Cardinal Onaiyekan condemns the position of the United States government, which continues to block every attempt to impose a ceasefire through a Security Council resolution. He asks: if Christian values no longer mean much, what about our common humanity? Is it that the world has not moved beyond the logic of might is right even in the 21st century? Cardinal Onaiyekan is bold enough to say the book of Genesis claims to tell the story of the very beginning of creation and of the entire human race (Genesis 1-3). We know today from science that the origin of our universe runs into millions of years. So also, is the origin of our humanity. The history of Israel therefore came rather late in the day, with Abraham featuring at about the year 2,000BC. That is only about 4,000 years ago.I say, think about this. The book ends with a very insightful reflection on the Gaza war, history of Palestine in their Jewish, Arab, Christian and Muslim versions, theology and human rights that is compulsory reading for all humans seeking understanding. I wish John Cardinal Onaiyekan happy 80thbirthday. May God give him many healthier and intellectually active years for the benefit of humanity. A professor of Political Science and development consultant/expert, Jibrin Ibrahim is a Senior Fellow of the Centre for Democracy and Development, and Chair of the Editorial Board of PREMIUM TIMES. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The curse of Allah is upon the one who engages in the act of the People of Lut (sodomy). The curse of Allah is upon the one who engages in the act of the People of Lut. The curse of Allah is upon the one who engages in the act of the People of Lut. [Reported by Ahmad and graded sahih by Ahmad Shakir; see As-Silsilatus-Sahihah of Sheikh Al-Albani, who graded it authentic] In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful All Praise is due to Allah, We praise Him and we seek help from Him. We ask forgiveness from Him. We repent to Him; and we seek refuge in Him from our own evils and our own bad deeds. Anyone who is guided by Allah is indeed guided; and anyone who has been left astray, will find no one to guide him. I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, the Only One without any partner; and I bear witness that Muhammad (Peace be upon him) is His servant and His Messenger. Dear brothers and sisters! Islams teaching about homosexuality is referred to in a story found in the Quran. This is the story of the Prophet Lut (may Allahs peace be upon him), who criticised the men of his town for their homosexual practices. Allah the Almighty stated: And remember Lot (Lut) when he said to his people: Do you commit the worst sin such as none before you have committed among creation? Indeed, you practise your lusts on men instead of women. Nay, but you are a people transgressing beyond bounds. [Quran, 7:80-81] Some people today (who engage in, or justify same-sex relationships) have tried to claim that the prohibition (in the Quranic verse above) refers to non-consensual sex between homosexuals. Others assert it refers to homosexual relationships outside of marriage. Both of these views clearly contradict this Quranic verse because Allah the Almighty stated: Indeed, you practise your lusts on men instead of women. If the Quranic verse was referring to homosexual rape (or non-consensual sex), then that is equally forbidden against women. However, Allah the Almighty (in this Quranic verse) allowed sex between heterosexuals (and within marriage). Also, if the verse was only forbidding homosexuality outside of marriage, then sex between a man and woman before marriage is forbidden so why would Allah the Almighty say: instead of women? Therefore, the only authentic and correct conclusion that can be drawn from this Quranic verse is that sexual relationships between people of the same sex are prohibited. Furthermore, arbitrarily changing ones gender from male to female (or vice-versa) does not alter the reality of the prohibition because there is a principle in Islam that states: Changing the name of something does not change its reality. So changing the name of alcohol to milk does not alter its reality nor the ruling of prohibition. Allah the Most High also said: You come to the men of creation and you leave those wives whom Allah has created for you? Nay! You are a transgressing people. [Quran, 26: 165-166] Abdullah Ibn Abbas narrated that Allahs Messenger (Peace be upon him) stated: The curse of Allah is upon the one who engages in the act of the People of Lut (sodomy). The curse of Allah is upon the one who engages in the act of the People of Lut. The curse of Allah is upon the one who engages in the act of the People of Lut. [Reported by Ahmad and graded sahih by Ahmad Shakir; see As-Silsilatus-Sahihah of Sheikh Al-Albani, who graded it authentic] Jabir Ibn Abdullah narrated that the Prophet (Peace be upon him) said: What I fear most for my followers (my ummah) is the act of the People of Lut (i.e., sodomy). [At-Tirmidhi and Ibn Majah, and graded as hasan by Sheikh Al-Albani] When the people ignored the Prophet Luts message, Allah destroyed the town and every transgressor in it, and He saved Prophet Lut (Peace be upon him) and his daughters. This event is a sign for the people who reflect. This story is also mentioned in the scriptures of the Jews and Christians. Respected brothers and sisters! Muslim scholars throughout the history have taken this story to mean that Allah has prohibited homosexuality absolutely, i.e. courtship and sexual relationships between men. Muslims see homosexuality as an unnatural condition, an immoral inclination, even a mental illness which is dangerous for the individual and society in terms of its goodness and morality. Islam teaches that a Muslim cannot be pious and obedient to Allah and be a practising homosexual; the two states are incompatible. However, Muslim doctrine (Aqidah) does not remove from the fold of Islam the one who practices the major sin of homosexuality. Imam Shaikh Ibn Baz (may Allah have mercy on him) was informed that some youth display signs of feminine behaviour. He advised that they should spend time with men until they learn (to be masculine) and they benefit from that, and the feminine inclination passes. He was also asked concerning the man who becomes a Muslim but before he embraced Islam he was a practising homosexual. Once he became a Muslim, he repented from that sinful un-Islamic behaviour. However, his soul desires homosexuality. Shaikh Ibn Baz answered by saying: He should cling to his repentance and all praise is for Allah. [See Sharh Bulugh Al-Maram, Kitab Al-Hudud] Clinging to repentance means: to give up the sin, feel remorse for disobeying Allah, seek Allahs forgiveness and be resolute in not returning back to the sin. Dear servants of Allah! Today some people think that a person can be born homosexual and through this, they justify their sexual leanings. However, Islam teaches that every child is born upon the fitrah, a natural inclination, which means that they were created with inclinations that Allah is pleased with for human beings and fulfil the natural functions of the body. With that in mind, Muslim scholars state that homosexuality comes about due to a corruption of the natural state which can be triggered by various events and environmental factors such as: 1. The way they are brought up with the idea that there is no difference between the two sexes. 2. Being exposed to homosexuality constantly so it becomes normalised. 3. Being nurtured on theories and ideas that oppose science, nature and the intellect (e.g. two people of the same sex were not physiologically designed to have sexual relations or produce offspring). 4. Being sexually abused as children can lead to confused ideas about sexuality and sexual preferences. 5. School indoctrination of children from an early age that goes against nature, health and wellbeing. 6. Relentlessly encouraged from a young age to explore same-sex relationships and gay role-play in schools. 7. Ostracising and seeking to criminalise all forms of dissent against the powerful LGBTQ movement in the West. 8. Muslim scholars state that just as people have learned to be homosexual, they can also learn not to be if they choose to correct their behaviour and are helped in that process; and therefore, they return back to their natural state of being, or at least desist from homosexual activity if they are not able to be heterosexual. The Quran does not say how homosexuality should be punished, but a saying of the Prophet (Peace be upon him) makes clear: Whoever you find engaging in the action of the people of Lut (sodomy), execute the one who does it, and the one to whom it is done. [Ibn Majah and Tirmidhi] And mind you, this Hadith must not be used by individuals as an excuse to enact or incite violence against homosexuals and lesbians, or to take laws into their own hands. Prescribed punishments for homosexuality and lesbianism can only be carried out by the legal authority in a country or state that practices shariah or Islamic Law; and there must be clear evidence that actual sex had taken place. The Muslim penal code carries out punishments on the basis of the unlawful act that is committed and not on the basis of a persons inclinations where no illegal act has been committed. This is the view of all of the famous Islamic scholars and jurists (Fuqaha) of Islam in line with the punishment dealt to the people of Lut (in the Quran) and the Hadith of the Prophet (Peace be upon him). A Muslim, regardless of which state or country he lives in, is not allowed to physically harm those he regards to be sinners, nor incite others to do so. Vigilantism goes against Islamic teachings because it creates an anarchic, unjust and disorderly society. Dear brothers and sisters! Today there are homosexuals and lesbians who consider themselves to be Muslims, and they know they are sinners in the sight of Allah just as there are some Muslims who fornicate, steal, lie and deal in usury. They recognise their sins. These sins are not considered unbelief (Kufr) that exit Muslims from the fold of Islam; but they are major sinners under the threat of Allahs punishment as purification for their crimes. Dear servants of Allah! Homosexuality and lesbianism are illegal in virtually every Muslim country in the world with punishments ranging from fines and prison to corporal punishment and execution. There are over 75 countries across the world, Muslim and non-Muslim, that consider homosexuality and lesbianism to be a criminal offence. The Bible (Old Testament) is followed by millions of Jews and Christians in the world, and it too forbids men from having sexual relations with men. Chapters 18 and 20 of Leviticus list prohibited forms of intercourse: You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination. Chapter 18 verse 22 said: If a man lies with a male as with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination; they shall surely be put to death; their blood is upon them. Chapter 20 verse 13 Deuteronomy 22:5 states: A woman must not wear mens clothing, nor a man wear womens clothing, for the Lord, your God, detests anyone who does this. This is a clear prohibition of cross-dressing. The New Testament (Bible) also condemns homosexual practices. Romans 1:26-27 states: Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural sexual relations for unnatural ones. In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed shameful acts with other men and received in themselves the due penalty for their error. Paul wrote in the First Epistle to the Corinthians 6:9-11 states: Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men; nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And that is what some of you were. The words men who have sex with men translate two Greek words that refer to the passive and active participants in homosexual acts. In recent times organisations and groups have been established to give support to lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender (etc) Muslims. These groups do not see their homosexuality as being wrong; they claim they were born gay, lesbian or trans etc. Furthermore, they do not believe that Allahs prohibition in the Quran and Sunnah is applicable in these times; or they believe that these texts do not apply to people who are in love. However, Muslims (almost as a whole) regard homosexuality and lesbianism to be sinful based upon the clear textual proofs of the Quran and Sunnah, the consensus (ijma) of the first three generations after the Prophet, the agreement of the Four well-known Schools of Islamic Jurisprudence and in accordance with the view of the Sunni scholars spanning more than 1,445 years of Islamic history. Islam teaches that Muslims must obey Allah by doing what he has commanded and by keeping away from what he has prohibited. A Muslim who legalises (makes permissible) what is clearly forbidden in the Revealed Texts (Quran and Sunnah) such as making lawful fornication, drinking alcohol, gambling, homosexuality or lesbianism, then that person has left the fold of Islam. They are no longer Muslims. However, Muslims who commit major sins (less than idolatry) such as fornication, robbery, homosexuality or lesbianism whilst affirming their transgression against Allahs Law and affirming their sin, they remain within the Religion, albeit with weakness in their faith (Iman). These people are threatened by Allahs punishment in the Hereafter unless they repent from their sins. And if they enter the Fire, they will not remain in it eternally. Respected brothers and sisters! Muslims who find they are afflicted with temptations or unnatural desires must learn to resist, turn to Allah, supplicate to Him for strength and guidance (and get married). They must pray their five daily prayers, pay the Zakah and fast the month of Ramadan, etc. They should keep company with righteous people and keep their desires under control and eventually dominate over them. Not every desire needs to be satisfied! A believer is commanded to keep his soul in check and his passions within the limits of Allahs commands. We are living in difficult times where religiosity, morality, chastity and good conduct are actively discouraged, and immorality, foul behaviour, irreligious conduct, ill-manners, sexual depravity and lewdness are championed. Nevertheless, a Muslim must remain pious, and remember that holding steadfastly to Islam, the Sunnah and Islamic morals and ethics in these times brings along with it a greater reward from Allah for the patient. The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said: Know that which has passed you by was never going to befall you, and whatever has befallen you was never going to miss you. And know that victory comes with patience, relief comes after affliction and ease comes after hardship. [Reported by Ahmad and others] In reference to the times of hardship that were to come the Prophet (Peace be upon him) stated that: Ahead of you are days of patience, when holding onto the religion will be like holding onto hot coals, and whomsoever holds onto his religion in that time, then his reward will be the reward of fifty men. The Companions said, O Messenger of Allah, fifty times the worth of their reward? He said, Rather fifty from you. [Abu Dawud, At-Tirmidhi, Ibn Majah, Al-Hakim who declared it authentic, Adh-Dhahabi agreed and Al-Albani declared it sahih in As-Sahihah] Examples of commands from Allah the Almighty: Worship Allah alone, pray, fast, give zakah (obligatory charity), perform Hajj, be dutiful and kind to parents, give in charity, wear hijab, etc. Examples of prohibitions from Allah the Almighty: Idolatry, interest (Riba), adultery, drinking alcohol, murder, stealing, sex before marriage, homosexuality, lesbianism etc. A Muslim is commanded to encourage people with doing good actions and to advise them against doing things that Allah has forbidden. In this way, he follows the way of the Prophets. Lastly, I pray: Ya Allah, guide us with those whom You have guided, grant us well-being among those You have granted well-being, be an ally to us along with those whom You are an ally to, and bless what You have bestowed upon us, and save us from the evil of what You have decreed. For verily You decree and none can decree over You. He whom You support can never be humiliated. Glory is to You, our Lord, You are Blessed and Exalted. Ya Allah, We ask You for all that is good, in this world and in the Hereafter, what we know and what we do not know. Ya Allah, we seek refuge with You from all evil, in this world and in the Hereafter, what we know and what we do not know. Ya Allah, we ask You for the good that Your servant and Prophet (Muhammad) has asked You for, and we seek refuge with You from the evil from which Your servant and Prophet (Muhammad) sought refuge. Ya Allah, we ask You for Paradise and for that which brings one closer to it, in word and deed, and we seek refuge in You from Hell and from that which brings one closer to it, in word and deed. And we ask You to make every decree that You decree concerning us good. All praise is due to Allah, Lord of the worlds. May the peace, blessings and salutations of Allah be upon our noble Messenger, Muhammad (Peace be upon him), and upon his family, his Companions and his true and sincere followers. Murtadha Muhammad Gusau is the Chief Imam of: Nagazi-Uvete Jumuah Mosque; and Late Alhaji Abdur-Rahman Okene Mosque, Okene, Kogi State, Nigeria. He can be reached via: gusauimam@gmail.com; or +2348038289761. This Friday sermon (Jumuah Khutbah) was prepared for delivery today Friday, 28 Rajab, 1445 AH (February 09, 2024). Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Ultimately, any endeavour to resuscitate moral rectitude in Nigeria must commence with addressing its fundamental underpinnings: economic deprivation. Effective governance begets economic prosperity, enabling the provision of equitable remuneration. A populace liberated from the shackles of poverty is inherently more receptive to moral precepts than one ensnared by perpetual privation. Nigeria stands as a sprawling landscape of crime, where a myriad of criminal activities occur with alarming regularity, yet perpetrators are acutely aware of the severe consequences awaiting them if apprehended. From witnessing petty thieves being stoned to death to others meeting a fiery demise, one cannot help but question what drives individuals to engage in activities with such dire potential outcomes. What often goes overlooked in these narratives is the immense power of hunger and its existential threat to those ensnared within its grasp. The other day, I found myself on a talk show where a participant confronted me with a thought-provoking inquiry: Could our media organisation dedicate a section of its work to a reorientation of the mind? This request stemmed from a prevailing sentiment that our conduct in Nigeria reflects a lamentable erosion of values. It wasnt the first time Id been approached on this topic. In fact, many in the Nigerian diaspora often lament what they see as a total collapse of our moral compass back home. But I have a hypothesis: the average Nigerian living in the country is a criminal of some sort. Ok, let me rephrase that: An average Nigerian at home faces the potential to resort to criminal activities. This hypothesis, though contentious, warrants a closer examination in light of the complex realities on the ground. Admittedly, this is a bold assertion, one that places me in the crosshairs, but I stand ready to defend it. Now, let me choose my words carefully. I didnt insinuate that all Nigerians are inherently predisposed to criminality. I am referring specifically to a demographic majority who find themselves anxiously awaiting a meagre monthly wage; individuals whose monthly salary may amount to fifty thousand naira, yet are burdened with a monthly rent of forty thousand naira for an apartment they share with their spouse and six school age children. The point being made here is that the prevailing socio-economic conditions in our country often compel individuals to grapple with ethical compromises merely to sustain themselves. Man must wack and no matter the economy of the jungle, the lion will never eat grass, we are told. Irrespective of ones profession be it a physician, barrister, engineer, cleric, or scholar the Nigerian landscape imposes its unforgiving realities. There exists no refuge where individuals can pursue their vocations with integrity without confronting the spectre of poverty. Consequently, doctors may prescribe unnecessary intravenous therapies, judges may dispense justice for pecuniary gain, and members of the clergy may choose to overlook the transgressions of affluent patrons. In the chronicles of my adult life, the persistent failure of the Nigerian government to provide a livable wage has been a threadbare reality. Day by day, individuals are expected to dutifully report at their posts, yet when the month draws to a close, the compensation received barely suffices for a weeks sustenance. One begins to wonder whether the Nigerian government and other employers of labour advocate seeking spiritual intervention from the Imam, Babalawo or a Daddy GO to bridge the chasm of financial disparity. This stark reality has become an ingrained aspect of the Nigerian workforce for generations. In response, disillusionment festers among the workforce. Those who show up often resort to peddling various wares within the confines of their offices a phenomenon unique to Nigeria. God help you if you dare seek routine assistance from these government offices; youll find yourself coerced into paying an informal tax, a bribe, which everyone has resignedly accepted as a means of supplementing the paltry income of government workers. This culture of corruption thrives openly, unchallenged, as though it were an intrinsic aspect of our societal fabric. Irrespective of ones profession be it a physician, barrister, engineer, cleric, or scholar the Nigerian landscape imposes its unforgiving realities. There exists no refuge where individuals can pursue their vocations with integrity without confronting the spectre of poverty. Consequently, doctors may prescribe unnecessary intravenous therapies, judges may dispense justice for pecuniary gain, and members of the clergy may choose to overlook the transgressions of affluent patrons. Successive incompetent administrations in Nigeria, characterised by political leadership, long on sleaze, have impoverished one of the most industrious populations on the planet. Confronted with such profound deprivation, innate survival instincts usurp any semblance of moral contemplation. Until we confront the scourge of poverty that plagues our nation, efforts to instill moral education in schools or embark on moral rejuvenation campaigns will amount to a Sisyphean task. As the Abami Eda, Fela Kuti aptly proclaimed, Teacher, dont teach me nonsense. Without addressing the democracy of stomach, all other endeavours are rendered inconsequential. However, attributing our societal inclination toward criminal behaviour solely to inadequate wages would be overly reductionist. The very political leaders who are the masterminds behind our nations decline have systematically eroded our societal values. In our relentless pursuit of opulence, even the most impoverished among us reject modesty as though it were an alien notion. We aspire to emulate the ostentatious lifestyles of the Aisha Achimugus of this world, thereby perpetuating a cycle of materialism and moral decay. My recent exploration of South American countries such as Brazil, Colombia, and Costa Rica provided me with a comparative understanding of societal norms. In these nations, modesty is celebrated, with citizens driving humble vehicles and residing in unpretentious homes. Unlike Nigeria, where opulent estates contrast starkly with crumbling infrastructure, these countries boast exemplary public institutions and robust infrastructure that prioritise the well-being of their citizens. This serves as a powerful reminder that effective governance leads to an improved quality of life for all. Ultimately, any endeavour to resuscitate moral rectitude in Nigeria must commence with addressing its fundamental underpinnings: economic deprivation. Effective governance begets economic prosperity, enabling the provision of equitable remuneration. A populace liberated from the shackles of poverty is inherently more receptive to moral precepts than one ensnared by perpetual privation. Until we confront the scourge of poverty that plagues our nation, efforts to instill moral education in schools or embark on moral rejuvenation campaigns will amount to a Sisyphean task. As the Abami Eda, Fela Kuti aptly proclaimed, Teacher, dont teach me nonsense. Without addressing the democracy of stomach, all other endeavours are rendered inconsequential. Osmund Agbo is the author of Black Grit, White Knuckles: The Philosophy of Black Renaissance and an upcoming novel, The Velvet Court: Courtesan Chonicles. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Following the announcement of the N1 billion partnership with IHS Nigeria to support the 3MTT Learning Community, the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy is proud to announce the 3MTT Community Managers for all 36 states in Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The selection of Learning Community Managers marks a significant milestone in our efforts to empower Nigerias tech talents. These individuals will play a crucial role in managing and assisting participants in the 3MTT programme as they leverage the Learning Platform designed by IHS Nigeria. With their guidance, 3MTT participants will have the support they need to navigate the learning platform and maximise their learning experience. Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovations & Digital Economy, expressed his excitement about the collaborative effort, stating that significant collaboration between the public and private sectors is required for the national digital transformation journey. This partnership with IHS Nigeria is the first of many that will help achieve our goal to make Nigeria a net exporter of tech talent, as outlined in the Strategic Blueprint. As part of IHS Nigerias support, the company has committed to paying the salaries of the 37 dedicated learning community managers nationwide. Additionally, access to the IHS Learning Platform will play a significant role in supporting 3MTT talent development efforts. Mohamad Darwish, the CEO of IHS Nigeria stated that the companys collaboration with the Federal Government on the 3MTT initiative aligns with the Presidents Renewed Hope Agenda and the Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economys Strategic Plan. He went further to mention that the initiative also aligns with one of their sustainability pillars which is Education. He continued by saying that investing in digital skills helps to build a skilled and qualified talent pool that will stimulate job creation, innovations, business growth, and the diversification of the economy. It is further evidence of IHSs continued commitment to building a prosperous nation, along with their recently announced milestone commemorating a rollout of over 10,000 kilometres of fibre optic cables across Nigerias 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, which is aimed at improving the quality and access to broadband and next-generation digital services for individuals, businesses, and organisations throughout the Country. As we continue to build momentum, we look forward to seeing the impact and the contributions of the 3MTT Community Managers in empowering Nigerias tech talents. The Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme is a critical part of the Renewed Hope agenda. It is aimed at building Nigerias technical talent backbone to power her digital economy and position the country as a net talent exporter. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print ( Read 4705 Times) Two students from Delhi Public School (DPS) Udaipur, namely Kavin Sukhadia and Pranav Ladiya, studying in the 9th grade, have been selected for the Eureka Junior Program organized by IIT Bombay. This program aims to promote technology and innovative ideas among students from grades 6 to 12. Approximately 20,000 students from across the country participated in the program, and out of them, 50 were selected to attend a 5-day boot camp at IIT Bombay. In the final round, 23 students presented their projects and ideas in front of specialists at IIT Bombay. Kavin Sukhadia and Pranav Ladiya, along with their project partner Parth Chhabra, underwent a five-day training camp at IIT Bombay in December. Subsequently, on February 4th, they presented their Smart Irrigation Project at the E-Summit organized by IIT Bombay. Mr. Govind Agarwal, the Vice Chairman of the school, mentioned that the students' accomplishment is commendable. The school principal, Mr. Sanjay Narwariya, and vice-principal, Mr. Rajesh Dhabai, congratulated the students' parents and encouraged the students to continue excelling in new dimensions. Source : ( Read 3341 Times) Udaipur: The Department of Botany at Mizoram University organized a two-day National Seminar on Biodiversity, Conservation, Utilization, and Commercialization of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants in a hybrid mode on February 8-9, 2024. In a technical session on February 9, Dr. Vartika Jain, Assistant Professor at Government Meera Girls College, Udaipur, Rajasthan, was invited as the keynote speaker to discuss "Semal Tree: Traditional Knowledge, the Need for Conservation, and its Blessings for Human Health." Dr. Vartika highlighted the multifaceted importance of the versatile Semal tree, covering its spiritual, commercial, environmental, folk-medicinal, and socio-cultural significance. The Semal tree, resembling an umbrella, provides shelter to various animals and birds, and its roots, part of the Panchavati trees, play a role in preventing water erosion. She elaborated on the diverse uses of Semal, such as in matchstick industry, boats, coffins, spoons, artificial limbs, and more. The tree's silky cotton is used in making wicks, pillows, soundproof walls, sofas, cushions, and was even employed in ancient times for constructing fortress walls. Dr. Vartika emphasized the medicinal importance of Semal, with its seeds producing oil and dried flowers holding medicinal value. The bark, leaves, and other parts of the tree are used in traditional healing practices for various ailments like diabetes, heart diseases, gastrointestinal issues, and more. The tree also yields several chemical compounds with therapeutic significance. While acknowledging the neglected status of Semal, Dr. Vartika advocated for its due recognition and organized an online National Seminar on Semal Tree on Maghi Purnima, February 16, 2022. She emphasized the need for collective efforts to conserve this invaluable tree, which has been diminishing in and around Udaipur. The Society for Microvita Research and Integrated Medicine (SMRIM), Udaipur, has been actively engaged in Semal conservation for the past 16 years, involving the collection of seeds and planting new saplings at various locations. In her virtual lecture, Dr. Vartika urged everyone to appreciate each part of the Semal tree, emphasizing its roots, stem, leaves, flowers, fruits, gum, seeds, silk, thorns, and bark, each holding medicinal significance. She presented recent research findings indicating the potential of Semal in the treatment of prevalent diseases like diabetes and heart conditions. The seminar witnessed participation from enlightened individuals and researchers from various parts of India. At the end of the event, Secretary Prof. Avadhesh Kumar expressed gratitude to Dr. Vartika for her insightful contribution. Source : DUBLIN, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Border Security Market Report 2024-2034" has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. World revenue for the Border Security Market is forecast to surpass US$38.9 billion in 2024, with strong revenue growth through to 2034. Geopolitical Tensions and Border Disputes: Catalysts for Advanced Border Security Measures Geopolitical tensions and border disputes on the global stage are instrumental in propelling the demand for advanced border security measures. As nations grapple with territorial conflicts and historical border issues, there is a substantial impetus to invest significantly in cutting-edge technologies and robust infrastructure to fortify their borders. This imperative is driven by the need to safeguard national sovereignty, protect against potential incursions, and maintain geopolitical stability. A vivid example of the impact of geopolitical tensions on border security is the enduring conflict between India and Pakistan. The protracted border disputes, particularly in the Kashmir region, have prompted both nations to bolster their border security mechanisms. In response to these tensions, advanced surveillance systems, including drones and satellite technology, have been deployed to monitor the border zones effectively. Additionally, fencing and patrolling initiatives have been intensified to prevent unauthorized crossings and enhance overall border control. The Market Growth is Significantly Impeded by its Susceptibility to Fluctuations in Economic Conditions One significant restraining factor impacting the border security market is its pronounced vulnerability to fluctuations in economic conditions. Economic instability and uncertainties, both on a global and regional scale, exert a substantial influence on the market's growth trajectory. In times of economic downturns or recessions, governments and relevant authorities may face budget constraints, leading to reduced investments in border security technologies and infrastructure. The cyclical nature of economic conditions can result in funding limitations for critical security initiatives, hindering the implementation of advanced surveillance systems, biometric technologies, and other essential components of border security. Market Dynamics Market Driving Factors Increasing Procurement of Advanced Defence Systems Driving the Market Growth Rising Geopolitical Tension to Ramp Up the Demand for Border Security Market Increasing Adoption of Unmanned System Solutions by Military and Defence Forces Market Restraining Factors The Market Growth is Significantly Impeded by its Susceptibility to Fluctuations in Economic Conditions Stringent Regulatory Environment Hinder the Market Concerns Related to Privacy and Ethical Considerations in Deploying Certain Surveillance Technologies Market Opportunities Increasing Investment in National Defence Driving the Market Growth Upgradation of the Existing Border Security Infrastructure Opportunities International Market Expansion and Opportunities for the Border Security Market Segments Covered in the Report Market Segment by End-User Governments Defence and Military Homeland Forces Market Segment by Border Type Land Borders Maritime Borders Air Borders Homeland Borders Market Segment by Application Border Surveillance Illegal Immigration and Human Trafficking Prevention Drug and Contraband Detection Perimeter Security Other Applications Market Segment by Technology Surveillance and Biometric Systems Communication Systems Command and Control Systems Radar Systems Perimeter Security Systems Other Technologies Forecasts to 2034 and other analyses reveal commercial prospects In addition to revenue forecasting to 2034, the new study provides you with recent results, growth rates, and market shares. You will find original analyses, with business outlooks and developments. Discover qualitative analyses (including market dynamics, drivers, opportunities, restraints and challenges), cost structure, impact of rising border security prices and recent developments. Leading companies and the potential for market growth Airbus BAE Systems Elbit Systems Israel Aerospace Industries Leonardo Lockheed Martin Moog Inc Northrop Grumman Corporation Raytheon Technologies Corporation Saab Safran Teledyne FLIR Thales The report provides you with the following knowledge: Revenue forecasts to 2034 for Border Security Market, 2024 to 2034 Market, with forecasts for end-user, border type, application, and technology, each forecast at a global and regional level - discover the industry's prospects, finding the most lucrative places for investments and revenues. Revenue forecasts to 2034 for four regional and 20 key national markets - See forecasts for the Border Security Market, 2024 to 2034 market in North America , Europe , Asia-Pacific , Latin America and Middle East & Africa . Also forecasted is the market in the US, Canada , Brazil , Germany , France , UK, Italy , China , India , Japan , and Australia among other prominent economies. , , , and & . Also forecasted is the market in the US, , , , , UK, , , , , and among other prominent economies. Prospects for established firms and those seeking to enter the market - including company profiles for 15 of the major companies involved in the Border Security Market, 2024 to 2034. For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/l82w4p About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Media Contact: Research and Markets Laura Wood, Senior Manager [email protected] For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470 For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907 Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg SOURCE Research and Markets Arrow Electronics (NYSE:ARW) Full Year 2023 Results Key Financial Results Revenue: US$33.1b (down 11% from FY 2022). Net income: US$903.5m (down 37% from FY 2022). Profit margin: 2.7% (down from 3.8% in FY 2022). The decrease in margin was driven by lower revenue. EPS: US$16.03 (down from US$22.01 in FY 2022). All figures shown in the chart above are for the trailing 12 month (TTM) period Arrow Electronics Meets Expectations Revenue was in line with analyst estimates. Earnings per share (EPS) was also in line with analyst expectations. Looking ahead, revenue is expected to decline by 1.9% p.a. on average during the next 2 years, while revenues in the Electronic industry in the US are expected to grow by 5.3%. Performance of the American Electronic industry. The company's shares are up 1.7% from a week ago. Risk Analysis Don't forget that there may still be risks. For instance, we've identified 2 warning signs for Arrow Electronics that you should be aware of. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. 40,000 American Shoppers Voted Boudreaux's Butt Barrier Ointment as Most Innovative Product of 2024 in Baby Care TARRYTOWN, N.Y., Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Boudreaux's Butt Paste's Butt Barrier Ointment has been honored as a recipient of the prestigious 2024 Product of the Year USA Award, recognized as the top product in the baby care category based on a survey of 40,000 people by Kantar. The Product of the Year USA Award is one of the most respected honors in the consumer goods industry, celebrating excellence in product innovation and quality. Boudreaux's Butt Barrier Ointment stood out among a competitive field of products, showcasing its effectiveness in preventing diaper rash while maintaining the highest standards of safety and reliability. Product of the Year Logo Developed with the utmost care and expertise by Boudreaux's Butt Paste's team of experts, Boudreaux's Butt Barrier Ointment offers a unique blend of ingredients designed to create a protective barrier against wetness and irritation. The Butt Barrier Ointment is clinically tested, hypoallergenic, fragrance free and has been accepted by the National Eczema Association. Its gentle yet effective formula is safe for use at every diaper change providing peace of mind for parents, ensuring their little ones stay comfortable and happy. Recommended by pediatricians and trusted by parents, Boudreaux's Butt Paste is relied upon to soothe and alleviate diaper rash discomfort and has been a staple for parents for over 40 years. "As we celebrate this remarkable achievement, we remain committed to our mission of helping parents care for their little ones with confidence and peace of mind," said Tim Crowley, Associate Director of Pediatrics at Prestige Brands. "This recognition is a testament to our dedication to providing parents with the best possible solutions for their baby's delicate skin. We are immensely grateful to our customers for their trust and support." As a globally recognized symbol of endorsement, Product of the Year has been active in the United States for 16 years and boasts over 30 years of operation worldwide. Serving as a reliable guide for shoppers, it aids in navigating the plethora of new products available, both online and in-store. In an era where consumers are increasingly mindful of their budgets and make discerning choices, the Product of the Year red seal serves as a distinctive marker. This mark assists consumers in identifying the most exceptional new products that excel in areas such as thoughtful design, quality, and innovation, cutting through the clutter on store shelves. For further information about Boudreaux's Butt Paste, visit buttpaste.com. Additional details on the full list of 2024 Product of the Year Winners can be found at productoftheyearusa.com, along with on Instagram, Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) at #POYUSA2024. About Boudreaux's Butt Paste Created by pharmacist and father of four, George Boudreaux, in 1978, Boudreaux's Butt Paste was born from the need for an effective and safe solution to treat diaper rash. Created specifically for parents who don't want to settle for anything less than the best, it uses a combination of efficacious ingredients to be fast acting without being harsh on a baby's skin. Boudreaux's Butt Paste is formulated without harmful ingredients and is free-from dyes, parabens, preservatives, and talc. Parents rely on this trusted and pediatrician-recommend diaper rash line to help soothe and relieve rash discomfort from the first use and beyond. Boudreaux's is part of C.B. Fleet Company, Incorporated, a Prestige Brands Company. About Product of the Year Product of the Year is the largest consumer-voted award for product innovation. Established over 30 years ago, POY currently operates in over 40 countries with the same purpose: Guide consumers to the best products in their market and reward manufacturers for quality and innovation. Product of the Year winners are backed by the votes of 40,000 consumers in a national representative study conducted by research partner Kantar, a global leader in consumer research. The award is a powerful merchandising program for marketers proven to increase product sales, distribution, and awareness. Winning products are announced in February each year and receive the right to use the Product of the Year logo in marketing communications for two years. For more information, visit productoftheyearusa.com. About Kantar Kantar is the world's leading marketing data, insight and consultancy company. We know more about how people live, feel, shop, vote, watch and post worldwide than any other company. Working across the entire sales and marketing lifecycle, we help brands uncover growth in an extraordinary world. Kantar is part of WPP and its services are employed by over half of the Fortune 500 companies in 100 countries. SOURCE Boudreaux's Butt Paste LOS ANGELES, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Singleton Schreiber filed a class action lawsuit in California federal court alleging Toyota Motor Sales greatly misrepresented the cost savings of maintenance plans to consumers. The suit alleges the value of the maintenance plans were inflated and designed by Toyota to cost consumers more than if they had simply paid for repairs and maintenance out of pocket. According to the release, the ToyotaCare Plus brochure lays out the timeframe for regular service visits to the dealership for maintenance. Toyota sold the package by telling consumers they would save hundreds of dollars. The brochure claimed regular service visits cost $100 and any major service visits would cost $400. They represented the total value of their maintenance package at $1,900 and sold it to consumers for $1025. Teresa Solis paid for the ToyotaCare Plus package cost of $1,025 thinking she would be saving $875 in the long run. However, as time went on it became quickly apparent to Ms. Solis and other consumers that the $1,900 value was far from accurate. For example, when she took her car into the Carlsbad Toyota dealership, certain work was being performed ahead of schedule or skipped altogether. According to the complaint: In January of 2022, Ms. Solis brought her car in for a 20,000-mile regular service but Toyota did not perform the 20,000-mile service and instead performed the service scheduled for 30,000 miles. The bill for this "major service" was roughly $200 , not the $400 she was told it would be. , not the she was told it would be. In July of 2022, when she brought the vehicle in for the 30,000 major service, she was given the 35,000 regular service and the bill came to $30 (not the $100 she was sold). Had she paid out of pocket, it would have been just $43 . (not the she was sold). Had she paid out of pocket, it would have been just . Ultimately, Ms. Solis realized she would have only paid between $800 and $900 less than the total price she paid for the Maintenance Plan. The complaint alleges this overstating of the maintenance package value is a consistent theme for countless car-buyers who were sold the same plan, which was Toyota's intent to maximize profits by implementing the program. "Not only were these people sold a bill of goods, they had to pay interest on it," said attorney Chris Rodriguez of Singleton Schreiber. "These plans are packaged into the car loan, so that $1,025 Ms. Solis paid is actually quite a bit more than that over the course of the loan. We're bringing this suit to hold Toyota accountable for the ways in which these people were ripped off." The case is Teresa Solis et al. v. Toyota Motor Sales, U.S. District Court Southern District of California, Case No. 24CV0251 DMS DEB. About Singleton Schreiber With over 50 attorneys and 277 support staff and offices in California, Hawai'i, Colorado, New Mexico, Oregon, Washington, and Utah, Gerald Singleton and his team have represented more than 20,000 victims of utility fires and recovered approximately $2.5 billion in settlements and verdicts for its clients. The firm is also a premier personal injury firm led by Brett Schreiber, having obtained top results for clients, including more than $100 million in verdicts and settlements in the last 12 months alone. Contact: Singleton Schreiber, 619-771-3473 SOURCE Singleton Schreiber CodeSignal Learn paves the way for a new era in technical learning SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- CodeSignal today announces CodeSignal Learn, a practice-based learning platform that offers one-on-one guidance and AI-powered learning tools to help individuals cultivate in-demand technical skills. CodeSignal Learn is redefining technical education with a revolutionary approach that places hands-on experience at its core. Recognizing that true mastery comes from practical application, the platform offers a diverse range of accessible lesson types carefully tailored to accommodate various learning styles. With thousands of skills, CodeSignal Learn covers everything from Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Full-Stack Engineering and more. Unlike traditional learning platforms, CodeSignal Learn is designed to be engaging and directly applicable to professional life, ensuring learners not only master, but can apply the skills needed for career growth. Cosmo, an AI-powered coding guide, develops individual learning journeys for each user. Like a tutor who can check your work and clarify specific concepts, Cosmo creates learning experiences that are both challenging and fun, prompting users with unique challenges and unblocking users when they get stuck. With 76% of developers using AI coding assistant tools for learning new technical skills, CodeSignal Learn comes at a time when artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the way developers approach and enhance their coding capabilities. "Since 2015, technical leaders have relied on CodeSignal to identify people with the best skills for their business needs. It's a thrilling moment to now launch a product that helps people develop and master in-demand skills as well," said Tigran Sloyan, CEO & Co-Founder of CodeSignal. "CodeSignal Learn is not merely a learning tool; it's a dynamic experience tailored to meet the unique needs of every individual, providing the skills and confidence necessary to thrive in the current and future tech landscape." In conjunction with the launch of CodeSignal Learn, CodeSignal hosted their annual Beyond event today, Thursday, February 8th in San Francisco. The event brought together insightful tech leaders including Steve Wozniak, Sal Khan, Chris Slowe, Narine Hall, and Kylie Robinson, to share their insights into the future of artificial intelligence, technical hiring, and learning. "The energy and enthusiasm at Beyond was inspiring. We witnessed an incredible gathering of tech enthusiasts and industry professionals, all sharing in the excitement of this groundbreaking moment," says Brenna Lenoir, Senior Vice President of Marketing at CodeSignal. CodeSignal Learn signifies a bold step forward for technical education, redefining how individuals engage with and master technical skills. The platform not only democratizes education, ensuring accessibility for all skill levels, but its personalized experience also goes beyond mere skill-building, preparing people for the real challenges they'll face in their careers. About CodeSignal CodeSignal is on a mission to discover and develop the skills that will shape the future. Our skills assessments and AI-powered learning tools empower high-performing teams to go beyond skill gaps and help individuals cultivate the skills they need to level up. Wherever you are on your skills journey, CodeSignal meets you there and gets you where you need to go. Founded in 2015, CodeSignal has powered almost 3 million skills evaluations and is trusted by leading companies like Netflix, Capital One, Meta, and Dropbox. Learn more at codesignal.com or follow CodeSignal on LinkedIn . SOURCE CodeSignal DUBLIN, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Companion Diagnostics (CDx) Market Report 2024-2034" has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. World revenue for Companion Diagnostics (CDx) Market is forecast to surpass US$6.5 billion in 2024, with strong revenue growth through to 2034. The market for CDx is expanding thanks in large part to technological developments. Better, more sensitive, and more focused CDx tests are coming from these developments. Important technical developments in CDx include the following:- Next-generation sequencing (NGS): Entire tumour genomes can be sequenced using NGS, a high-throughput sequencing technology. This data can be used to pinpoint genetic mutations that particular medications can target. Liquid biopsy: A less intrusive procedure that can identify cancer cells and other indicators in the circulation is liquid biopsy. This test can be used to track the course of cancer and the effectiveness of treatment and is less intrusive than conventional tissue biopsies. AI (artificial intelligence): AI is being used to create computer algorithms capable of analysing enormous amounts of CDx data. This information can be utilised to spot patterns and forecast patient outcomes. These technological improvements are having a significant impact on the CDx industry and are projected to fuel market expansion in the coming years. CDx tests are getting more accurate, sensitive, and inexpensive as a result of these improvements, and they are playing an increasingly essential role in personalised medicine. In 2023, a number of significant businesses plan to make significant investments in companion diagnostics. Here are few instances:- Roche: With a strong emphasis on cancer, Roche is a prominent player in the companion diagnostics (CDx) market. The business has created a number of complementary diagnostics for its targeted cancer treatments, including Zelboraf and Herceptin. Another significant participant in the companion diagnostics business is Abbott Laboratories. The Clariscan companion diagnostic test from the company assists in forecasting a patient's reaction to the chemotherapy medication irinotecan. Thermo Fisher Scientific: This top supplier of tools and supplies for companion diagnostic testing is Thermo Fisher Scientific. Several firms are developing companion diagnostic tests using the company's Ion Torrent NGS platform. Hence, these improvements and new product introductions highlight the CDx market's dynamic nature and its potential to revolutionise cancer therapy by providing precision medicine. High Capital Investment and Low Cost-benefit Ratio Likely to Challenge Industry Growth These specialised tests require significant capital expenditure to design and validate. Companion diagnostics, in contrast to more general diagnostic instruments, serve a specific and narrower population. This indicates that the market may not be as large as expected, which would make it difficult to recover the high expenses associated with R&D and obtaining necessary permits. These tests also frequently need for advanced infrastructure and technologies, which raises the cost even further. The development and validation of these specialised tests necessitates substantial capital commitment. Companion diagnostics, as opposed to broader diagnostic instruments, target a smaller, more specific group. As a result, the market size may be limited, making it difficult to recoup the significant expenditures of research, development, and regulatory approvals. Furthermore, these examinations frequently necessitate expensive technology and infrastructure, which increases the budgetary load. However, calculating the cost-benefit ratio might be difficult. Companion diagnostics have the potential to improve treatment efficacy and reduce waste by ensuring that the right patients receive the proper treatment. This can result in cost reductions for healthcare systems as well as better patient outcomes. However, realising these benefits is contingent on a number of circumstances, including the prevalence of the targeted group, the efficacy of the companion medication, and the cost of the test itself. When the target population is small or the diagnostic cost is high, the cost-benefit ratio may be skewed to the negative. Manufacturers may be discouraged from investing in companion diagnostics, even if they provide great therapeutic value. Key Market Dynamics Market Driving Factors Increasing Rate of Chronic Illnesses Technological Improvements in the CDx Market Increasing Public Awareness of Personalised Medicine Growing Need for Targeted Therapy Rising Importance of Personalized Medicine Increasing Global Incidence of Cancer Growing Application Areas of Companion Diagnostics Market Restraining Factors Serious Issues and Substantial Medical Costs Creating and Approving CDx Tests is a Challenging and Intricate Process. High Capital Investment and Low Cost-benefit Ratio Uncertain Reimbursement Scenario in Different Regions High Cost of Immunotherapy Treatment Market Opportunities Creating New CDx Tests for Novel Targeted Medicines Favourable Government Policies Expansion into New Geographic Markets Increasing Demand for Next-Generation Sequencing in CDx Growing Significance of Companion Diagnostics in Drug Development Higher Number of Clinical Trials Segments Covered in the Report Product & Services: Assays, Kits & Reagents Software & Services Technology: Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) In Situ Hybridization (ISH) Immunohistochemistry (IHC) Other Technologies Indication: Cancer Infectious Diseases Cardiovascular Diseases Neurological Diseases Other Indications End-users: Pharmaceutical & Biopharmaceutical Companies Reference Laboratories Contract Research Organizations (CROs) Other End-users Leading Companies profiled in the report: Abbott Agilent Technologies, Inc. Almac Group bioMerieux Danaher Corporation F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd Guardant Health Illumina, Inc. Myriad Genetics, Inc. QIAGEN Sysmex Corporation Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. Forecasts to 2034 and other analyses reveal commercial prospects: In addition to revenue forecasting to 2034, the new study provides you with recent results, growth rates, and market shares. You will find original analyses, with business outlooks and developments. Discover qualitative analyses (including market dynamics, drivers, opportunities, restraints and challenges), cost structure, impact of rising Companion Diagnostics prices and recent developments. For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/9zhaw4 About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Media Contact: Research and Markets Laura Wood, Senior Manager [email protected] For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470 For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 U.S. Fax: 646-607-1904 Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg SOURCE Research and Markets CHICAGO, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Martin (Marty) Redish, a senior counsel in Crowell & Moring's Chicago office and the Louis and Harriet Ancel Professor of Law and Public Policy at Northwestern University School of Law, has published a new book that provides a revolutionary view of the constitutional guarantee of due process. In Due Process as American Democracy, Redish develops a new approach to procedural due process, grounded in foundational precepts of American political theory. Redish argues that American political thought comes from an adversarial understanding of democracy where individuals need to protect their own interests, because no one else can be trusted to do so. Redish writes that a skeptical vision of democracy informs the separation of powers and operates as the protector of liberal democracy. When applied to procedural due process, adversary democracy dictates skepticism of both judges and those who seek unilaterally to represent the individuals' interests in court. The end result is a demand for strong protections of judicial neutrality and independence far beyond what is presently required and imposition of serious restrictions on the ability of courts to appoint others to protect individuals' legally protected interests. The book applies these underlying democratic premises to areas of modern civil procedure and constitutional law, urging dramatic alterations in both. In a review of the book, Richard Freer, Charles Howard Candler Professor of Law, Emory University, states, "Procedural due process (PDP) is one of the most invoked and least understood concepts in American law. In this pathbreaking book, Professor Redish views PDP as an outgrowth of "liberal adversary democracy," rooted in mistrust of those who wield power. He uses this lens to illuminate problematic doctrine in civil procedure, administrative law, and constitutional law. Only a scholar of Redish's breadth and depth could write this sweeping and important book. It is a capstone achievement by one of America's preeminent constitutional theorists." Outside of Crowell, Redish is the Louis and Harriet Ancel Professor of Law and Public Policy at Northwestern University School of Law, where he has taught since 1973, along with visiting professorships at Stanford University Law School, Cornell University Law School, and University of Michigan Law School. Redish's seminal 1971 article, "The First Amendment in the Marketplace: Commercial Speech and the Values of Free Expression," laid the groundwork for commercial actors and advertisements to receive free speech protections. In addition to being cited in 22 Supreme court opinions, Redish has appeared as an expert witness before Congress on numerous occasions. He is the author of 18 books, from legal textbooks to applications of political theory, and is the author or co-author of more than 100 academic articles. The book is published by Oxford University Press. More information on the book can be found here. About Crowell & Moring LLP Crowell & Moring is an international law firm with operations in the United States, Europe, MENA, and Asia. Drawing on significant government, business, industry and legal experience, the firm helps clients capitalize on opportunities and provides creative solutions to complex litigation and arbitration, regulatory and policy, and corporate and transactional issues. The firm is consistently recognized for its commitment to pro bono service, as well as its programs and initiatives to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion. Media Contact: Email: [email protected] SOURCE Crowell & Moring LLP Securities Litigation Partner James (Josh) Wilson Encourages Investors Who Suffered Losses Exceeding $100,000 In Cummins To Contact Him Directly To Discuss Their Options If you suffered losses exceeding $100,000 investing in Cummins stock or options between April 30, 2019 and December 21, 2023 and would like to discuss your legal rights, call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310). You may also click here for additional information: www.faruqilaw.com/CMI. There is no cost or obligation to you. NEW YORK, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP, a leading national securities law firm, is investigating potential claims against Cummins Inc. ("Cummins" or the "Company") (NYSE: CMI) and reminds investors of the March 15, 2024 deadline to seek the role of lead plaintiff in a federal securities class action that has been filed against the Company. Faruqi & Faruqi is a leading minority and Woman-owned national securities law firm with offices in New York, Pennsylvania, California and Georgia. Faruqi & Faruqi Logo (PRNewsfoto/Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP) As detailed below, the complaint alleges that the Company and its executives violated federal securities laws by making false and/or misleading statements and/or failing to disclose that: (1) Contrary to its post-April 2019 Announcement assurances about its commitment to compliance, Cummins continued to produce engines with unlawful emission defeating devices from 2019 to 2023; (2) accordingly, Cummins understated its legal and regulatory risk, and overstated its commitment to environmental protection; and (3) as a result, Defendants' statements about its business, operations, and prospects, were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages. On December 22, 2023, the United States Department of Justice issued a press release entitled "Attorney General Merrick Garland Statement on the Agreement in Principle with Cummins to Settle Alleged Installation of Illegal Defeat Devices in Engines." It stated, in pertinent part, "[e]ngine manufacturer Cummins Inc. today disclosed that it has reached an agreement in principle with the United States and State of California to pay a $1.675 billion penalty to settle claims that it violated the Clean Air Act by installing emissions defeat devices on hundreds of thousands of engines." On this news, the price of Cummins stock fell $7.01, or 2.87%, to close at $236.99 on December 22, 2023. The court-appointed lead plaintiff is the investor with the largest financial interest in the relief sought by the class who is adequate and typical of class members who directs and oversees the litigation on behalf of the putative class. Any member of the putative class may move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff through counsel of their choice, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision to serve as a lead plaintiff or not. Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP also encourages anyone with information regarding Cummins' conduct to contact the firm, including whistleblowers, former employees, shareholders and others. Attorney Advertising. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP (www.faruqilaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your particular case. All communications will be treated in a confidential manner. SOURCE Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP David Jeremiah Partnering with Latin America to Deliver the Gospel SAN DIEGO, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- "Let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season, we shall reap if we do not lose heart." This verse from the New Testament book of Galatians has been one of the guiding principles for the growth of David Jeremiah's broadcast ministry, Turning Point with David Jeremiah. In January of 2001, Jeremiah took the first step in translating his radio broadcast into a foreign language. Knowing that Spanish is the second-most-spoken language in North America and being headquartered in Southern California, he seized an opportunity to start broadcasting in Spanish and officially launched the Momento Decisivo radio program. It's about transforming lives. Post this Por Que la Natividad? watch party in El Salvador. Feature length docu-drama Por Que la Natividad? Over the past twenty years, Momento Decisivo has experienced remarkable growth, providing Bible Strong content across multiple channels and through a variety of resources. Last September, the Momento Decisivo television program celebrated its first full year of nationwide and local airings on stations across the US and Latin America. Today, Momento Decisivo reaches 42 million Spanish speakers in the US and 12 million bilingual speakers around the globe through radio, television, print, and digital resources. Turning Point is actively delivering the unchanging Word of God to an ever-changing world through strategic partnerships in the US and Latin America with radio and television stations, churches, parachurch organizations, and local communities. Currently, Momento Decisivo programming reaches 359 stations across 20 countries. These partnerships have enabled the Gospel's transformative power to be shared with Spanish-speaking audiences worldwide. "Jesus gave us a global task, and no matter how large our global task is, it all starts at home. All of this started with a calling God place in my heart, and now when you have great team working on it, the efforts are multiplied, and it takes off into so many directions and expands," said Jeremiah. Yessenia Jimenez, the manager of Momento Decisivo added, "Latin America is a region with deep and diverse spiritual landscape, a place where faith and culture intertwine, and solid biblical teaching is more crucial than ever. On a recent trip I was struck by the pressing needs of the community and experienced first-hand the urgency of providing solid biblical teaching through the local churches and universities. Momento Decisivo aims to help address this need by offering relevant, inspiring, and transformative content." By working with our Latin American partners, Momento Decisivo can provide resources to stations, churches, universities, and parachurch organizations that help them spread the message of faith, hope, and everlasting love in ways that meet the unique needs of their community and region. As Turning Point continues leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance the quality and accessibility of its broadcasts and digital resources, Momento Decisivo is no exception. Spanish-language broadcasts and digital content are constantly being advanced via streaming services, mobile applications, and interactive platforms, allowing audiences to engage with the ministry's content in various ways. The partnership extends beyond traditional broadcasting and digital content with collaborative efforts to develop additional resources to support spiritual growth and discipleship. This past Christmas, Turning Point's feature-length docu-drama Por Que la Natividad? was re-released with a promotional campaign that encouraged watch parties and included church kits to study the Nativity story further, and participation was amazing. Here is a glimpse of how the Por Que la Natividad? campaign performed between Thanksgiving and Christmas-: 152K views of Por Que La Natividad? on YouTube views of on YouTube 6,514 views of Por Que La Natividad? on the official Spanish landing page on the official Spanish landing page 2,309 subscriptions to Por Que La Natividad? devotional plan on YouVersion devotional plan on YouVersion 175 Spanish church kit downloads 72 Church hosted watch parties with a potential audience of 223,840 35 Television broadcasts with 3 new stations for 2023 Canal 27 in Guatemala Asociacion Cultural Cristo Vision in Costa Rica Emmanuel TV in Mexico But it's not about the numbers; it's about transforming lives. Each of these numbers symbolizes a life, and while we may never know the full impact, we are blessed to hear stories from our partners, like Edificadores del Reino, who held a special showing of Por Que la Natividad? in December where 47 children came to know Christ. With Momento Decisivo, Turning Point and its Latin American partners are committed to providing content and resources that empower individuals to deepen their understanding of the Christian faith and live Bible Strong lives. As Turning Point continues to expand its reach and impact, the organization remains dedicated to its mission of delivering the unchanging Word of God to an everchanging world. Through the power of radio, television, and digital outreach the ministry aims to bring the Gospel to all the hearts and homes of individuals and families across Latin America and the Spanish-speaking world. For more information about Momento Decisivo and its Spanish-language programming, please visit https://www.momentodecisivo.org/. Dr. David Jeremiah is a renowned Bible teacher, New York Times bestselling author, and founder/host of Turning Point Broadcast Ministry. With more than 40 years of ministry and "just getting started," his teaching has led to the creation of the Prophecy Academy , OVERCOMER, Airship Genesis , PassagesTV, Why the Nativity? , and PerhapsToday to name a few. About Turning Point Turning Point Ministries was founded in 1982 as the broadcast ministry of Dr. David Jeremiah to deliver the unchanging Word of God to an ever-changing world. More than three decades later, with a multimedia network featuring radio, television, online programming, magazine, and books, Turning Point reaches people around the globe with the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Turning Point is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization wholly supported by its patrons and not underwritten by any church or organization. SOURCE Turning Point Ministries The increasing adoption of Industry 4.0 and industrial IoT is the driver. NEW YORK, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global digital twin market size is estimated to grow by USD 32.78 billion from 2022 to 2027, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 39.92% during the forecast period. Technavio estimates a growth of 39.92% YOY during 2023. The Market is driven by the increasing adoption of Industry 4.0 and industrial IoT, revolutionizing industrial processes through digitalization. Industry 4.0's focus on automation and real-time data exchange, enabled by technologies like the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), enhances productivity, efficiency, and collaboration. Digital twin technology plays a pivotal role in Industry 4.0 initiatives, facilitating advanced manufacturing processes and lifecycle management, thus propelling growth. For more insights on the historical data (2017 to 2021) and forecast size (2023 to 2027) - Request a sample report Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Digital Twin Market 2023-2027 North America held the largest share in 2022, and the region is estimated to witness an incremental growth of 43%. Scope Report Coverage Details Historic period 2017-2021 Forecast period 2023-2027 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 39.92% Growth 2023-2027 USD 32.78 billion Structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 39.3 Regional analysis Europe, APAC, North America, Middle East and Africa, and South America Performing contribution North America at 43% Key countries US, China, Japan, Germany, and UK Technavio has segmented the market based on Deployment (On-premises and Cloud), End-user (Manufacturing, Energy and utilities, Aerospace and Defense, Automotive, and Infrastructure and others), and Geography (North America(The US, Canada), Europe(UK, Germany, France, Rest of Europe), APAC(China, India), Middle East and Africa(Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Rest of Middle East and Africa), and South America(Chile, Brazil, Argentina)). The on-premises segment is expected to experience significant growth during the forecast period. This preference stems from the perceived advantages in security, particularly in industries like aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing, where intellectual property and data security are paramount. On-premises solutions offer greater control and customization, aligning with industry objectives and reducing vendor dependency. The adoption of on-premises digital twin solutions is anticipated to rise further among large enterprises in the coming years. is expected to experience significant growth during the forecast period. This preference stems from the perceived advantages in security, particularly in industries like aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing, where intellectual property and data security are paramount. On-premises solutions offer greater control and customization, aligning with industry objectives and reducing vendor dependency. The adoption of on-premises digital twin solutions is anticipated to rise further among large enterprises in the coming years. North America will contribute 43% to the growth during the forecast period. Insights on the contribution of various segments including country and region wise historical data (2017 to 2021), and forecast size (2023 to 2027) - Download a Sample Report "The increasing traction in the healthcare sector is an emerging trend fueling the growth, however, challenges such as the high cost of deployment and complex architecture may hamper the growth." says a senior analyst of Technavio Insights on Drivers, trends, & Challenges, historic period(2017 to 2021), and forecast period(2023 to 2027)- Request a sample report! What are the key data covered in this report? CAGR during the forecast period Detailed information on factors that will drive the growth between 2023 and 2027 Precise estimation of the size and its contribution to the parent market Accurate predictions about upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior Growth of the industry across North America , Europe , APAC, Middle East and Africa , and South America , , APAC, and , and A thorough analysis of the competitive landscape and detailed information about vendors Comprehensive analysis of factors that will challenge the growth of vendors Technavio's SUBSCRIPTION platform Applications The industry leverages virtual twins and IoT devices to create digital models synchronized with real-world data. With simulation technology and real-time analytics, businesses implement predictive maintenance and smart manufacturing solutions. This integration of machine learning algorithms aligns with the principles of Industry 4.0, driving advancements in digital modeling and enhancing operational efficiency across various industries. Related Reports: The server storage area network SAN market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 24.35% between 2022 and 2027. The size is forecast to increase by USD 49.15 billion. The IT professional services market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 9.09% between 2022 and 2027. The size is forecast to increase by USD 461.56 billion. About US Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging trends and provide actionable insights to help businesses identify opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing 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 Becomes Japan's No.1 Remittance Service with over 77,000 ATMs nationwide TOKYO, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - Global IT and fintech company, Digital Wallet Corporation (DWC), has reached an agreement with Seven Bank, Ltd (Seven Bank), a Japanese bank run by Seven & i Holdings Co Ltd, operating Seven-Eleven stores in Japan, to acquire its subsidiary and international money transfer service, Seven Global Remit, Ltd. DWC owns and operates Smiles Mobile Remittance (Smiles), known as Japan's first and most popular mobile remittance application. This acquisition will allow DWC and Seven Bank to collaborate in redefining and improving the landscape of international money transfer services and financial inclusion for foreign residents in Japan. The agreement concluded on 9 February 2024. Customers currently using Seven Global Remit's service are scheduled to transition to Smiles sequentially. Seven Bank and Digital Wallet will promptly inform their customers regarding the service transition as soon as it is determined. Digital Wallet Corporation acquires international remittance service, company of Seven-Eleven Group Japan. Post this With the alliance between DWC and Seven Bank, all Smiles customers will gain access to Seven Bank's extensive ATM network after the service transition, significantly enhancing convenience. This partnership establishes Smiles Mobile Remittance as the premier choice for foreign residents in Japan, providing unparalleled access to the country's largest ATM network and setting its position as the number one service in the market. In 2014, DWC Founder and CEO Eiji Miyakawa, a former Sony Corporation leader of a cloud technology group, started Digital Wallet with leading engineers of Sony with the same goal to utilize IT and fintech to maintain peace and sustain the international society. Since its launch in 2017, Smiles Mobile Remittance has assembled a diverse team representing over 13 nationalities, each contributing their talents to deliver exceptional service. Recognized as the top-rated mobile remittance application in Japan, Smiles was also honored as the recipient of the prestigious Good Design Award 2021 for its outstanding product design. With the anticipated easing of travel restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic and administrative support aimed at addressing labor shortages accompanying the decline in the working-age population, there is an expected increase in foreign residents living in Japan. "We started Smiles with the ambition to offer a fair, fast and affordable remittance service for our hardworking migrant workers," said Mr. Miyakawa, "and because we made it happen, we've been receiving mass support from our customers and now we're number one in Japan." Smiles aligns its service with evolving needs, providing an array of features to offer convenience for its customers including the option for direct remittances from over 50 thousand ATMs in Japan. In addition to Lawson Bank, Japan Post (Yucho) Bank and AEON Bank's ATMs, Seven Bank's network of 27 thousand ATMs will make Smiles Mobile Remittance Japan's largest ATM network, beating all competitors in the market. This will also enable customers to easily deposit funds into their accounts and send money to over 200 countries worldwide using their smartphones. "We're very grateful that Seven Bank approached us to work with them," added Mr. Miyakawa. "It goes to show how much they trust our expertise in IT and fintech, and we are even more motivated to help the growing number of migrant workers in Japan. Through this alliance, we strive to deliver a better international society with the Seven Bank team." About Digital Wallet Corporation Digital Wallet was established in 2014 by former Sony designers and engineers as well as employees who developed global cloud services. The company had visions to excel in and provide B2B application services as well as a remittance service. In 2017, Digital Wallet combined the powers of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Financial Technology (fintech) and used their expertise to carefully craft and develop a service that helps overseas workers support their loved ones by offering high rates, low fees, excellent customer service and real-time speed through Smiles Mobile Remittance. Smiles has made great achievements such as becoming Japan's number one global money transfer service and receiving the prestigious 2021 Good Design Award. It has expanded its business to 8 countries, including the United States, Canada and Singapore. Digital Wallet hopes to unite international communities all over the globe with its services. For more information, please visit the following links: Digital Wallet Corporation: https://digitalwallet.co.jp/ Smiles Mobile Remittance: https://smileswallet.com/ SOURCE Digital Wallet Corporation DUBLIN, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Energy-Efficient Building Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends Opportunity, and Forecast, 2028F" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The latest market research report on the Global Energy-Efficient Building Market highlights the industry's rapid expansion, with anticipated projections showcasing a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.98% through the year 2028. With a solid market valuation established at USD 122.7 Billion in 2022, energy-efficient buildings have cemented their relevance as a pivotal contributor to sustainable and financially savvy construction practices worldwide. These constructs are fashioned to use a drastically lower quantity of energy for the likes of heating, cooling, and lighting, echoing the collective environmental and economic exigencies of modern times. Substantial Market Drivers The thrust of the market is propelled by key drivers such as the induction of energy-efficient technologies and strategies, heightening environmental awareness, overarching regulations, and pronounced long-term cost savings. Smart building technologies further accentuate the market expansion by ensuring optimal energy use in alignment with various real-time parameters. Key Regional Insights The North American market, particularly in the United States and Canada, is demonstrating stellar performance, being the most significant shareholder and trendsetter in the global arena. Embracing avant-garde technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI), North America is trailblazing the path for energy-efficient solutions in the built environment. The European region is following closely, driven by stringent regulatory mandates for energy conservation. Asia-Pacific regions are also marked as dominant players, given their rapid advancement in solar energy and sustainable building investments. Market Opportunities And Challenges Even though the prospect holds immense potential, challenges such as high initial costs, the necessity for skilled professionals, and the intricacies of integrated designs pose as hindrances that need to be navigated through strategic planning and robust skill development. Segmentation Synopsis Energy-efficient ventilation systems Innovative lighting technologies Advanced energy management systems These systems, especially energy management segments, are expected to register significant growth, given the ascendancy in the demands across various industry verticals. By building type, the commercial sector occupies a lion's share, with a substantial 47% contribution to the market revenue, driven primarily by cost-saving opportunities and integration of sophisticated systems. Emerging Trends And Developments The industry is witnessing a swift navigation towards smart infrastructural developments aligned with sustainability goals. This upswing is catalyzed by the governmental push for green building initiatives and the intrinsic need for better energy management in response to the soaring energy prices. As the energy-efficient building market unfolds its myriad opportunities, it is set to redefine the global landscape of sustainable construction, resonating with the aspirations for a greener and more economical future. Report Scope: In this report, the Global Energy-Efficient Building Market has been segmented into the following categories: Global Energy-Efficient Building Market, By Building Type: Residential Commercial Industrial Global Energy-Efficient Building Market, By Component Type: Ventilation Systems Lighting Technologies Energy Management Systems Controls Companies Profiled Cleantech Group Johnson Controls Ameresco Inc. Serious Energy Inc. Knauf Insulation Architectural Energy Corporation KMC Controls Inc. For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/wuh4pb About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Media Contact: Research and Markets Laura Wood, Senior Manager [email protected] For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470 For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907 Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg SOURCE Research and Markets Semafor Signals Insights from The Sydney Morning Herald, Eurofound, and The Standard The News Australia looks set to pass new legislation that will allow workers to ignore calls and messages from their bosses after hours without penalty, making it the latest country to protect workers right to disconnect. The provision aimed at preventing stress and burnout brought on by availability creep is a last-minute amendment to a series of laws proposed by Australias Labor government aimed at bolstering workers rights. What we are simply saying is that someone who isnt being paid 24 hours a day shouldnt be penalized if theyre not online and available 24 hours a day, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told reporters Wednesday. Under the legislation, workers will have the right to refuse to monitor, read or respond to contact from their employer outside of their working hours unless the refusal is unreasonable, while workplaces that punish employees for not responding could receive financial penalties. SIGNALS Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories. Critics say the new law is an overreach that will hurt business Sources: The New York Times, Business Council of Australia The legislation has attracted criticism from businesses and opposition lawmakers who call it an overreach from the government, The New York Times reported. Workers already have legal protections against unreasonable working hours, a senator from the opposition Liberal Party told the newspaper, also voicing concerns about the measures potentially affecting productivity, jobs, growth and investment in the Australian economy. The Business Council of Australia echoed the senators response to the legislation, saying in a statement that the bill would create significant costs for businesses and result in less jobs and less opportunities. Several European countries already have right to disconnect laws Sources: BBC, Eurofound, The Standard Story continues Several countries have already passed laws protecting employees right to disconnect, attempting to counter levels of stress and burnout brought about by ever-present mobile devices a trend accelerated by the post-pandemic shift to remote work. In 2017 France became the first European country to introduce a law aimed at safeguarding workers rights to unplug once they are off work, while Italy has introduced similar provisions for remote workers. Brussels in early 2022 passed a law that would allow its civil servants to switch work devices off after hours without fear of retaliation, the BBC reported, which was then extended to the private sector. Kenya is the first African country to propose the right to disconnect for workers. However, the bill, which passed the Kenyan Senate last August, has triggered opposition from employment groups, with one leader saying the planned changes negate the essence of freedom and realities of the labor market. BOCA RATON, Fla., Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Former U.S. President Donald Trump takes the lead over incumbent U.S. President Joe Biden by 4 percent, according to the latest findings from the FAU Political Communication and Public Opinion Research Lab (PolCom Lab) and Mainstreet Research. Battleground America: Trump Holds Slight Edge Over Biden in National Poll According to the national survey, 41 percent of registered voters expressed support for Trump, while 37 percent favored Biden. Another 13 percent opted for alternative candidates while 9 percent remained undecided. These findings echo recent polls showing Trump consistently leading Biden by margins ranging from 1 to 4 percent. Demographic Divide: Trump's Lead Reflects Shift in Voter Support Demographic analysis of the poll data highlights the role of racial and ethnic identity in shaping candidate support. Although Biden maintains strong backing from African Americans at 63 percent, his support among white voters (32 percent) and Hispanics (33 percent) is notably lower. Conversely, Trump garners significant support from white voters (48 percent), Hispanics (41 percent), and 17 percent of African Americans. Further examination reveals Trump's strong hold on white non-college graduates, with 52 percent favoring him over Biden. "Former President Trump is maintaining a commanding lead with white non-college-educated voters. This group has been steadfast and largely unmoved in their support of the former president," said Kevin Wagner, Ph.D., professor of political science at FAU. Among Democrats who voted for their own party candidate in 2020, 72 percent chose Biden in the poll, while 86 percent of Republican voters did so for Trump. "Trump commands substantively higher support from his own party members than Biden, which could be a strong asset for Trump but poses a serious threat to Biden," said Dukhong Kim, Ph.D., associate professor of political science at FAU. "To improve his chances of victory, Biden must enhance support among African Americans and Hispanics, traditional Democratic Party constituencies, while also strengthening his appeal among party members to increase his chances to win the presidency." With 79 percent of voters expressing a strong likelihood of maintaining their current choice in November, Biden faces the challenge of swaying the remaining 21 percent who are undecided. Among younger cohorts aged 18-34, there's a notable trend of 20 percent expressing uncertainty about maintaining their current choice, compared with older cohorts, where only 4 percent of those aged 65 and over and 8 percent of those aged 50-64 share similar sentiments. In line with the outcome of the presidential election vote choice, the approval rating of Biden's performance as president reflects a challenging scenario. Currently, 38 percent approve of his performance (23 percent strongly approve and 15 percent somewhat approve), while 57 percent disapprove (38 percent strongly disapprove and 19 percent somewhat disapprove). Of note, his job approval rating closely mirrors that of Trump's at 34 percent in January 2020. Democrats Edge Ahead: FAU Poll Reveals Slight Lead in Congressional Elections "Congressional elections are again likely to be fairly close suggesting that either party may control the House in the next year," said Wagner. The Democratic Party holds a slight advantage over the Republican Party, with 39 percent of voters favoring Democrats compared to 36 percent for Republicans. Once again, racial and ethnic factors play a significant role, with African Americans showing stronger support for Democratic candidates (62 percent) than whites (33 percent) and Hispanics (48 percent). While there are differences in the relationship between partisan voters and their choice for representatives, the magnitude of the difference (6 percent) is not as big as the choice for the presidential candidate (14 percent). This poll was conducted from Friday, Feb. 2 to Saturday, Feb. 3, among a sample of 1,180 adults, 18 years of age or older, living in the United States. The survey was conducted using a text message survey of registered voters and an online panel of registered voters, so a margin of error cannot be assigned. The survey is intended to represent the voting population in United States. About Florida Atlantic University: Florida Atlantic University, established in 1961, officially opened its doors in 1964 as the fifth public university in Florida. Today, the University serves more than 30,000 undergraduate and graduate students across six campuses located along the southeast Florida coast. In recent years, the University has doubled its research expenditures and outpaced its peers in student achievement rates. Through the coexistence of access and excellence, FAU embodies an innovative model where traditional achievement gaps vanish. FAU is designated a Hispanic-serving institution, ranked as a top public university by U.S. News & World Report and a High Research Activity institution by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. For more information, visit www.fau.edu. About Florida Atlantic University PolCom Lab: The Florida Atlantic University Department of Political Science and the School of Communication and Multimedia Studies, in collaboration in with Mainstreet Research, established the PolCom Lab to investigate and analyze public opinion and political trends across the nation, and particularly in the state of Florida. For more information, visit www.faupolling.com. About Mainstreet Research: Founded in 2010, Mainstreet Research is recognized as one of Canada's top public opinion and market research firms. Since our founding, we have been providing actionable and data-driven insights to our clients to help them make their most important evidence-based strategic decisions. Mainstreet Research is a proud corporate member of CRIC and exceeds all Canadian and international standards for market research and public opinion research. Provided by Newswise, online resource for knowledge-based news at www.newswise.com Media Contacts: Joshua Glanzer Associate Vice President, Media Relations and Public Affairs [email protected] Phone: 561-297-1168 SOURCE Florida Atlantic University HONG KONG, Feb. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Fosun International Limited (HKEX stock code: 00656, "Fosun International") announced for the first time it was included in the Sustainability Yearbook 2024 by S&P Global and recognized as an Industry Mover according to "Corporate Sustainability Assessment" (CSA) for its continuous efforts in environmental, social and governance (ESG) over the years. In its 20th edition now, the annual S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook aims to distinguish individual companies, within their industries, that have demonstrated strengths in corporate sustainability. Membership was assessed based on 2023 Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA) scores, with companies within the top 15% of their industry by number and falling within 30% of that industry's top performing company being included in the Yearbook. Membership was highly competitive this year; of the over 9,400 companies in 62 industries assessed in the 2023 CSA, only 759 companies are included in the 2024 Sustainability Yearbook. Industry Mover is awarded to the company achieved an improvement in its S&P Global CSA Score of at least five percent and accomplished the strongest improvement in their industry. In 2023, Fosun International was successfully included in S&P Global's Sustainability Yearbook 2023 (China Edition) and was recognized as an "Industry Mover" for its commitment and progress in ESG initiatives. Fosun has always paid attention to the development of the global sustainability. It has established a sound ESG management system. Over the years, it has integrated ESG management requirements into business management, and actively responded to national strategies, ensured information security, promoted technology innovation, implemented "dual carbon" goals, participated in public welfare, protected the rights and interests of employees to promote sustainable management and value creation. Leveraging on years of continuous cultivation in the ESG field, long term responsible operations and effective management, Fosun International's S&P Global CSA ESG score has continued to rise and be well ahead of its peers since 2018. Therefore, Fosun was recognized as an Industry Mover by S&P Global. Since its establishment, Fosun has defined its corporate operating principles and cultural values of "Self-improvement, Teamwork, Performance, and Contribution to Society". It has been closely linking the development and achievement of individuals and enterprise with the improvement of social welfare all along. As a global enterprise rooted in China, Fosun will continue to uphold the original aspiration of developing business for good and "Contribution to Society", actively shoulder more social responsibilities, and make unremitting efforts in the fields of global emergency relief, rural revitalization, health, education, culture and art, youth development, etc. to create social value. About Fosun Fosun was founded in 1992. After more than 30 years of development, Fosun has become a global innovation-driven consumer group. Adhering to the mission of creating happier lives for families worldwide, Fosun is committed to creating a global happiness ecosystem fulfilling the needs of one billion families in health, happiness, and wealth. In 2007, Fosun International Limited was listed on the main board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (stock code: 00656.HK). As of 30 June 2023, Fosun International's total assets amounted to RMB834.9 billion. Fosun received an MSCI ESG rating of AA and was the only conglomerate in Greater China with such rating. SOURCE Fosun IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- If you intentionally evade your tax obligations, you can spend time in prison. Typically, your prison sentence will be determined by analyzing the amount of tax loss you caused the government to incur. Generally, defendants who create greater amounts of tax loss for the government will spend greater amounts of time in prison under the federal sentencing guidelines. Why you should use an Attorney to represent you in an audit In the case of United States v. Upshur, the Third Circuit held that intended tax loss will be used in sentencing calculations for tax crimes instead of actual tax loss. The intended loss is the loss that would have occurred if the defendant had successfully evaded their tax obligations. For support with your tax issues, contact our Dual-Licensed Tax Attorneys & CPAs at the Tax Law Offices of David W. Klasing by dialing (800) 681-1295 or clicking here to schedule a reduce rate initial consultation. Third Circuit Issues Ruling on Sentencing Calculations for Tax Crimes In May of 2023, the Third Circuit issued a ruling in the case of United States v. Upshur, establishing that intended tax loss will be used for tax crimes sentencing calculations, as opposed to actual tax loss. Intended tax loss refers to the financial loss the government would have sustained if a defendant's tax crimes were successfully completed. In Upshur, the defendant was indicted for perpetrating two fraudulent tax schemes over the course of a decade. First, Upshur told others that they could pay off their debts by wiring money to Upshur and allowing him to file tax forms stating that a trust he operated withheld substantial amounts of income tax on their behalf, hopefully resulting in substantial tax refunds. Upshur charged individuals $500 to join his scheme and an additional $250 for each debt they wished to pay off. However, this scheme was mostly unsuccessful. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) did issue a sizable refund for one participant in Upshur's scheme, but the agency quickly identified its mistake and managed to freeze the payment. In Upshur's second scheme, he would issue large overpayments to the IRS in hopes of generating a significant refund. This scheme also failed to generate any sizable refunds from the IRS. Still, in conjunction with Upshur's first scheme, his actions resulted in an intended-loss figure of $325 million. After applying the tax loss table set forth by U.S.S.G. 2T4.1, it was determined that the figure resulted in a base offense level of 34 with certain upward point adjustments being applied because of Upshur's criminal history. Ultimately, sentencing guidelines suggested a prison sentence between 324 and 328 months. Still, the lower court imposed a lower prison sentence of 84 months. At the Third Circuit Court of Appeals, Upshur argued that the tax loss figure used to calculate his sentence was improper. He asserted that his actions had actually not caused any loss to the U.S. Treasury. However, on appeal, the Third Circuit upheld the lower court's decision to use the intended-loss figure to calculate Upshur's sentence for his tax crimes. How the IRS Catches Tax Fraud There are a number of different ways that the IRS catches people who cheat on their taxes. For instance, the following are all common examples of methods the agency employs: Using Tips from Whistleblowers The IRS routinely catches tax evaders by using tips from whistleblowers. Whistleblowers are individuals who inform the IRS about illegal activities seeking a reward for the information. There are several reasons why a whistleblower may choose to report certain conduct. For example, a disgruntled employee who wants revenge may issue a report regarding their employer's improper behavior. Furthermore, the spouse of a criminal tax evader may submit a report to the IRS simply because they want to do the right thing. IRS Using Computer Artificial Intelligence Driven Analysis to Identify Tax Evaders The IRS also utilizes a complex computer system that reconciles the information returns submitted by employers and various third parties (W2's & 1099s) with tax positions reported by individuals on their tax returns. If a discrepancy is identified, then the IRS will investigate the matter further. An audit or criminal tax investigation may be ordered if evidence of potential tax evasion is identified. They are also currently integrating Artificial Intelligence into their civil and criminal enforcement efforts. Over time, the computer systems used to identify tax evaders have become more sophisticated. If you are concerned that you might be flagged for suspicious activity, then our Dual-Licensed Tax Attorneys & CPAs can help determine the appropriate course of action to bring you back into compliance without facing criminal tax prosecution. If you have failed to file a tax return for one or more years or have taken a position on a tax return that could not be supported upon an IRS or state tax authority audit , eggshell audit , reverse eggshell audit , or criminal tax investigation , it is in your best interest to contact an experienced tax defense attorney to determine your best route back into federal or state tax compliance without facing criminal prosecution. Analyzing Social Media Accounts Furthermore, the IRS can also use information posted on taxpayers' social media accounts to identify fraudulent behavior. For example, suppose someone's public social media posts indicate that they are living a lifestyle that does not coincide with their history of reported income on their tax returns. In that case, the government may decide to perform an audit or criminal tax investigation. Still, it is not known whether the IRS can access private communications like emails or nonpublic social media posts. When Can You Go to Jail for Tax Evasion? You are not at grave risk of going to prison for simply making minor mistakes on your tax returns. Tax evasion refers to the deliberate underpayment or nonpayment of taxes. Accordingly, in order for you to face criminal penalties for tax evasion, the government must have sufficient evidence to prove that you knowingly and willfully evaded your tax obligations. There are several potential examples of tax evasion. For instance, an individual may commit tax evasion by purposely underreporting digital assets on their tax returns. Furthermore, an employer may simultaneously commit tax evasion and aid & abet their workers tax evasion by paying them in cash and not issuing W2's or 1099's to evade payroll tax obligations. Finally, people also regularly evade their taxes by failing to report overseas sources of taxable income. Lastly, people commit income tax evasion by understating taxable income, overstating deductions, and claiming credits they are not entitled to. The U.S. government aggressively detects and prosecutes tax crimes. The criminal tax penalties imposed against tax evaders can include significant fines and jail time. The average amount of jail time for tax evasion is between three and five years. In general, longer sentences are imposed against those who cause greater tax loss to the government. Still, other factors, such as the defendants' criminal history, can come into play during sentencing calculations. We Are Here for You Regardless of your business or estate needs, the professionals at the Tax Law Offices of David W. Klasing are here for you. We are open for business and our team will help ensure that your business is too. Contact the Law Offices of David W. Klasing today to discuss your business with one of our professionals. In addition to our fully staffed main office in downtown Irvine California, the Tax Law Offices of David W. Klasing has unstaffed (conference room only) California based satellite offices in Los Angeles , San Bernardino , Santa Barbara , Panorama City , Oxnard , San Diego , Bakersfield , San Jose , San Francisco , Oakland , Carlsbad, Sacramento . We also have unstaffed (conference room only) satellite offices in Las Vegas Nevada , Salt Lake City Utah , Phoenix Arizona & Albuquerque New Mexico , Austin Texas , Washington DC , Miami Florida and New York New York that solely handle Federal & California Tax issues. Our office technology allows clients to meet virtually via GoToMeeting . With end-to-end encryption, strong passwords, and top-rated reliability, no one is messing with your meeting. To schedule a reduced rate initial consultation via GoToMeeting follow this link . Call our office and request a GoToMeeting if you are an existing client. We also now offer a convenient scheduling option, where you can secure David W. Klasing, Esq M.S.-Tax CPA's undivided attention for a 4-hour consultation at any of his satellite offices. See our Criminal Tax Law Q and A Library See our Audit Representation Q and A Library Here is a link to our YouTube channel: click here! Public Contact: Dave Klasing Esq. M.S.-Tax CPA, [email protected] SOURCE Tax Law Offices of David W. Klasing, PC ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla., Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In a collaborative effort, the Fort Mose Historical Society and the Florida State Parks Foundation recently hosted a historic groundbreaking ceremony at Fort Mose , the first legally sanctioned free Black community in the present-day United States. At a site initially built almost four decades before the American colonies declared their independence, reconstruction of the 1738 fort on the grounds of Fort Mose Historic State Park is set to begin and be completed by late 2024. "As we break ground on the reconstruction of Fort Mose, we are not merely rebuilding walls we're creating a tribute to the resilient and determined freedom seekers who made the first free Black settlement a possibility," said Charles Ellis, president of the Fort Mose Historical Society. "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. 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 of all who visit." "This groundbreaking marks a historic moment in our journey to preserve and celebrate our state's and our nation's rich cultural heritage," said Julia Gill Woodward, CEO of the Florida State Parks Foundation. "The Fort Mose groundbreaking ceremony signifies a commitment to fostering a deep connection between our past and present. This project is a testament to the enduring spirit of community and the profound importance of preserving our shared history." The original Fort Mose was established in 1738, marking a new beginning for a wave of freedom seekers who first arrived in St. Augustine in 1687 after fleeing enslavement. That version of the fort met its end with the Battle of Bloody Mose in 1740. The Fort Mose Historical Society launched the fort reconstruction project in 2012 and began fundraising efforts for the work. The Florida State Parks Foundation was awarded a $933,000 grant through the Florida Department of State's Florida African-American Cultural and Historical Grant Opportunity for fort reconstruction. This project transcends the simple reconstruction of a National Historic Landmark; it will convey the vital history of Fort Mose to the world, a pivotal chapter of our nation's narrative. For more information, click here for the media kit/assets. SOURCE Fort Mose Historical Society Tahoe Regional Planning Compact requires regulatory agency to protect Tahoe Basin from excessive development, reduce impacts from new growth and ensure environmental thresholds are achieved SACRAMENTO, Calif., Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Mountain Area Preservation (MAP), a 36-year-old grassroots environmental nonprofit organization, today filed a lawsuit against the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) in the Eastern District of California, declaring the federal agency is in violation of the 55-year-old Tahoe Regional Planning Bi-State Compact ("Compact"), the Regional Plan, and TRPA regulations. The lawsuit is necessary to ensure TRPA fulfills its duties set forth in the Compact, a congressionally approved agreement between California and Nevada. Under the Compact, TRPA must ensure that new development will not exceed or impede environmental threshold carrying capacities adopted to protect water quality, air quality, scenic views and other extraordinary Tahoe resources. A unique regulatory agency, TRPA was created by the Compact, which sets goals to protect and preserve Lake Tahoe and conserve the 501 square mile Tahoe Basin. It requires that regional plans must attain and maintain Federal, State, or local air and water quality standards, whichever are strictest. Under the Compact, TRPA must prepare and consider a detailed environmental impact statement (EIS) before deciding to approve or carry out any project that may have a "significant effect on the environment." An EIS from TRPA is required to use "a systematic, interdisciplinary approach," and TRPA must consult with relevant public agencies and provide a minimum 60-day public comment period on an EIS. Since TRPA's last EIS for its Regional Plan Update in 2012, the lake's health has deteriorated from, among other things, record amounts of microplastics and new invasive species. Lake Tahoe also has special status under the Clean Water Act. Designated an Outstanding National Resource Water, Lake Tahoe is now "listed under Clean Water Act Section 303(d) as impaired by inputs of nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment." In addition, local conditions have been negatively impacted by substantial increases in visitation, proliferation of short-term vacation rentals, and escalating populations in adjacent cities. Changes to Tahoe's current environmental and public safety conditions, together with other planned regional development, will increase vehicle miles traveled (VMTs) in the Lake Tahoe Basin, contributing to potentially hazardous air and water pollution for one of our nation's most treasured watersheds. MAP's lawsuit contends that TRPA failed to comply with the Compact and TRPA regulations by adopting amendments to the Regional Plan and TRPA code that will increase height, density, and coverage limits without fully considering the impacts of intensified land uses, including evacuation safety in the event of a major wildfire. By failing to prepare an EIS, the agency deprived the public of critical information pertaining to impacts on environmental resources and mitigation and alternatives to reduce these impacts, as well as skirting procedural safeguards for public review. Moreover, while TRPA promoted the new amendments as necessary to achieve affordable housing goals, TRPA actually eliminated existing affordable housing requirements without any public process at the 11th hour. "Apart from not adhering to its own regulations, TRPA has ignored and downplayed the greater public's consistent plea to take into account modern-day threats not envisioned in the 2012 Regional Plan Update and environmental analysis, such as wildfire threats and public safety concerns tied to evacuation in Tahoe's constrained area. Our mission has always been to preserve our natural environment for present and future generations while advocating for responsible development," said MAP Executive Director Alexis Ollar. Related Litigation MAP has repeatedly challenged land use proposals and policy decisions where local jurisdictions and developers have violated laws designed to protect the environment and public safety by failing to undertake mandatory environmental analysis. MAP's successful lawsuits have resulted in the protection of critical habitat, development of workforce housing, and restrictions on housing and commercial development in high-severity wildfire danger areas in Tahoe. Legal challenges to projects such as Martis Valley West helped protect Tahoe and its people from poorly planned growth and development. About Mountain Area Preservation Mountain Area Preservation (MAP) was founded in 1987 by Truckee Tahoe citizens who wanted to preserve open space and advocate for sound land use planning and policies. MAP's mission is to preserve the Truckee Tahoe region's mountain character and natural environment for present and future generations. Over the past thirty-six years, MAP has worked with diverse conservation stakeholders and developers to preserve more than 7,000 acres in the Martis Valley, Donner Summit, Brockway Summit, and Eastern Truckee. As advocates of good community planning, MAP's advocacy efforts over the last three decades have brought forward more than 700 workforce housing units through collaboration, negotiations, and settlement agreements. About Shute Mihaly & Weinberger Shute, Mihaly & Weinberger was founded in 1980 by three former members of the California State Attorney General's office. Their first case culminated in a unanimous decision from the U.S. Supreme Court in Agins v. Tiburon, 447 U.S. 255 (1980), which upheld the ability of cities and counties to protect open space. Since that time, the firm's attorneys have achieved an exceptional record of victories in the U.S. and California Supreme Courts, in lower federal and state courts, and before a wide range of state and federal administrative agencies. A majority women-owned firm, its attorneys and in-house land use planners bring a broad range of expertise to a variety of practice areas, including Environmental Law, Municipal & Public Agency Law, Clean Energy Law, Tribal Law, and Litigation & Appeals. SOURCE Mountain Area Preservation TORONTO, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - Lisa Laronde, the first woman President of RSG International, a global leader in road safety infrastructure, has been named to the Board of Directors of the Ontario Road Builders' Association (ORBA). "I believe this is an indication that the industry is changing. Although I might be the only woman on the board today, we must start somewhere. I have a voice, and I will use it," explains Lisa Laronde. "I think this is the beginning of something extraordinary." "I believe this is an indication the industry is changing," Post this Lisa Laronde is the President of RSG International, a global leader in road safety infrastructure. (CNW Group/RSG International) The announcement was made during ORBA's 97th Annual Convention and Annual General Meeting (AGM), held at the Fairmont Royal York in Toronto. This year's theme, 'Building Momentum: Engaging the Next Generation,' underscores the organization's unwavering commitment to driving industry progress and aligning with Ontario's growing and evolving infrastructure needs. "We are excited to welcome Lisa Laronde to ORBA's Board of Directors, where she joins leaders of Ontario's transportation infrastructure industry," said Walid Abou-Hamde, the CEO of ORBA. "Lisa's versatile skillset and experience will support the Association in implementing its strategic plan and advancing its members' interests." Laronde was recently recognized as one of Canada's 'Top 100 Most Powerful Women'; she's also the President of the Canadian Association of Women in Construction (CAWIC) and is widely known as a fierce advocate for women in leadership. Laronde is passionate about building psychologically safe work environments where diversity and inclusion are at the forefront of any organization, she's a part of. "Lisa (Laronde) is a trailblazer who breaks barriers and paves the way for others to follow; her appointment to the Ontario Road Builders' Association is a testament to her exceptional leadership and a beacon for the future of women in the industry," explains Jamie West, Board Director for CAWIC and President of Peninsula Construction, a division of RSG International. About RSG International: RSG International is a global leader in the road safety sector, creating cutting-edge solutions for life-saving problems. Its companies cover all areas of road safety infrastructure, including construction and installation, product distribution, new product development, and auxiliary services. About ORBA: The Ontario Road Builders' Association (ORBA) is the leading voice of the transportation infrastructure sector in Ontario. Its members build most provincial and municipal roads, bridges, transit, and transportation infrastructure across the province employs more than 78,000 workers at peak season. About CAWIC: CAWIC is the national not-for-profit organization committed to enhancing the success of women in the Canadian construction industry. As the leading voice for women in construction, CAWIC supports, connects, and unites women across the construction industry. SOURCE RSG International CHICAGO, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The M2M Satellite Communication Market is estimated to grow from USD 15.5 billion in 2023 to USD 28.7 billion in 2028, at a CAGR of 13.1% during the forecast period, according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. The M2M Satellite Communication Market revolves around the use of satellite networks to facilitate seamless communication between machines and devices globally. It enables remote connectivity across diverse industries, offering robust, reliable, and often real-time data transfer for applications in areas where traditional terrestrial networks may be limited or unavailable. This market segment continues to grow due to its ability to support IoT, remote monitoring, asset tracking, and other critical operations in challenging environments. Browse in-depth TOC on "M2M Satellite Communication Market" 300 - Tables 60 - Figures 400 - Pages Download PDF Brochure @ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=33741729 Scope of the Report Report Metrics Details Market size available for years 20172028 Base year considered 2022 Forecast period 20232028 Forecast units USD Billion Segments Covered Offering (Hardware, Software Type & Services) Technology (Satellite Constellation [Low-Earth Orbit, Medium-Earth Orbit, Geostationary-Earth Orbit]) Data Transmission, VSAT, AIS, Networking, Satellite Communication Protocols), Vertical, and Region. Geographies covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America Middle East & Africa Companies covered Marlink (France), Viasat (US), Thales (France), ORBCOMM (US), Iridium Communications (US), Globalstar (US), Orange (France), EchoStar (US), Intelsat (US), Rogers Communications (Canada), SES (Luxembourg), Gilat (Israel), Telia (Sweden), Kore Wireless (US), Honeywell (US), Qualcomm (US), Telesat (Canada), Wireless Logic (England), Outerlink Global Solutions (US), Nupoint Systems (Canada), Businesscom Networks (US), Semtech (US), Yahsat (UAE). By offering the services segment to account for higher CAGR during the forecast period. The M2M Satellite Communication Market offers a diverse array of services tailored to connect and manage devices across industries. Data services facilitate seamless information exchange between remote devices, enabling real-time monitoring and control. Voice services provide instant communication in areas with limited terrestrial networks, ensuring reliable voice connectivity. Satellite services, including telemetry and remote monitoring, leverage satellite networks for global coverage, enabling effective asset tracking and environmental monitoring. Security services address the need for robust data protection and secure communication, safeguarding sensitive information. Business services encompass consultancy, project management, and ongoing support, ensuring organizations derive maximum value from their M2M deployments. Request Sample Pages@ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=33741729 By Technology, Satellite Constellation is expected to hold the largest market size for the year 2023. Satellite constellations provide extensive coverage and enhance the reliability of communication services. M2M communication involves the exchange of data between devices or systems without human intervention, and satellite constellations contribute to this by ensuring global connectivity. One notable example is the deployment of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellations, where multiple small satellites operate in synchronized orbits at relatively low altitudes. The interconnected nature of these constellations facilitates seamless communication between devices across various industries, including agriculture, transportation, and environmental monitoring. The energy and utilities vertical is projected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. With energy assets dispersed across remote and often challenging environments, M2M satellite communication offers a robust solution for real-time data transmission and control. Satellite communication technology allows for the seamless connectivity of devices such as sensors, smart meters, and monitoring equipment, enabling utilities to remotely manage and optimize their energy distribution networks. This is particularly crucial for power grid operations, where M2M solutions ensure continuous data flow, aiding in fault detection, grid stability management, and response to dynamic energy demands. Europe is expected to hold the second-largest market size for the estimated year. The M2M Satellite Communication Market in Europe is characterized by the collaborative efforts of major countries such as Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and others. Germany, with its robust space industry, leads in secure satellite communications with programs like SPAINSAT NG, showcasing advancements in military capabilities. France, through initiatives like the Syracuse 4B military satellite and collaboration with India on satellite constellations, emphasizes innovation and international partnerships. Italy, with the COSMO-SkyMed constellation and SICRAL 3 secure communications system, plays a significant role in Earth observation and defense communication. Other European countries, including The Netherlands, Switzerland, and Sweden, contribute expertise in areas like Earth observation, precision engineering, and scientific research, enhancing the overall landscape of M2M satellite communication. Top Key Companies in M2M Satellite Communication Market: The major M2M satellite communication hardware, software and service providers include Marlink (France), Viasat (US), Thales (France), ORBCOMM (US), Iridium Communications (US), Globalstar (US), Orange (France), EchoStar (US), Intelsat (US), Rogers Communications (Canada), SES (Luxembourg), Gilat (Israel), Telia (Sweden), Kore Wireless (US), Honeywell (US), Qualcomm (US), Telesat (Canada), Wireless Logic (England), Outerlink Global Solutions (US), Nupoint Systems (Canada), Businesscom Networks (US), Semtech (US), Yahsat (UAE). These companies have used both organic and inorganic growth strategies such as product launches, acquisitions, and partnerships to strengthen their position in the M2M Satellite Communication Market. Recent Developments: In November 2023 , SWISSto12 and Thales collaborated to advance the development of Active Electronically Steerable Antennas (AESAs) catering to the Satcom-on-the-move market, particularly for airborne, land, and maritime vehicles. This collaboration involves integrating SWISSto12's innovative 3D-printed antenna apertures with Thales' cutting-edge solid-state beamformers. , SWISSto12 and Thales collaborated to advance the development of Active Electronically Steerable Antennas (AESAs) catering to the Satcom-on-the-move market, particularly for airborne, land, and maritime vehicles. This collaboration involves integrating SWISSto12's innovative 3D-printed antenna apertures with Thales' cutting-edge solid-state beamformers. In October 2023 , Viasat introduced upgraded business aviation in-flight broadband service options that align its Viasat Ka-band solution with the Jet ConneX solution from its recently acquired Inmarsat business. This integration aims to provide enhanced in-flight connectivity services for business aviation customers, combining the strengths of both Viasat and Inmarsat offerings to deliver a comprehensive and improved in-flight broadband experience. , Viasat introduced upgraded business aviation in-flight broadband service options that align its Viasat Ka-band solution with the Jet ConneX solution from its recently acquired Inmarsat business. This integration aims to provide enhanced in-flight connectivity services for business aviation customers, combining the strengths of both Viasat and Inmarsat offerings to deliver a comprehensive and improved in-flight broadband experience. In July 2023 , Thales entered exclusive negotiations to acquire Cobham Aerospace Communications for USD 1.1 billion . This move aligns with Thales' strategy to enhance its Avionics portfolio by gaining a leading position in safety cockpit communications. , Thales entered exclusive negotiations to acquire Cobham Aerospace Communications for . This move aligns with Thales' strategy to enhance its Avionics portfolio by gaining a leading position in safety cockpit communications. In May 2023 , Viasat announced the acquisition of Inmarsat, marking a significant step that amplifies the company's scale and capabilities. This merger strengthens their position within the dynamic and competitive satellite communications industry, enabling them to leverage expanded scale and scope to drive further growth and innovation. , Viasat announced the acquisition of Inmarsat, marking a significant step that amplifies the company's scale and capabilities. This merger strengthens their position within the dynamic and competitive satellite communications industry, enabling them to leverage expanded scale and scope to drive further growth and innovation. In February 2023 , Gilat unveiled the SkyEdge IV Taurus-M, a new satellite modem product tailored for military and government markets. This modem, backward compatible with SkyEdge II-c, safeguards the investments of customers who have previously embraced Gilat's leading satellite network platform. Inquire Before Buying@ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Enquiry_Before_BuyingNew.asp?id=33741729 M2M Satellite Communication Market Advantages: M2M satellite communication enables connectivity in geographically diverse and difficult contexts by offering coverage in remote and rural locations where terrestrial networks are absent or unreliable. No matter where they are, M2M devices may connect to central systems and each other through satellite communication, which provides ubiquitous connection and makes data transmission and monitoring easy. Mission-critical applications can be connected and data transmitted continuously with satellite communication networks, which are resistant to physical infrastructure destruction, network congestion, and natural disasters. M2M satellite communication solutions offer flexibility and scalability for a wide range of applications. They can handle the increasing number of linked devices and expand coverage areas as operating demands change. Telematics, asset tracking, and remote monitoring are just a few of the time-sensitive M2M applications that can benefit from low-latency connectivity provided by advanced satellite communication technology. In spite of the initial costs associated with deployment, M2M satellite communication provides long-term cost efficiency by removing the requirement for expensive investments in terrestrial infrastructure and by offering fixed operating costs for mobile and distant deployments. Applications like fleet management, maritime tracking, and aviation telemetry are supported by M2M connectivity for mobile assets like cars, ships, and aeroplanes made possible by satellite communication over large geographic distances. Report Objectives To define, describe, and predict the M2M Satellite Communication Market by offering (hardware, software type and services), technology, vertical, and region To provide detailed information related to major factors (drivers, restraints, opportunities, and industry-specific challenges) influencing the market growth To analyze the micro markets with respect to individual growth trends, prospects, and their contribution to the total market To analyze the opportunities in the market for stakeholders by identifying the high-growth segments of the M2M Satellite Communication Market To analyze opportunities in the market and provide details of the competitive landscape for stakeholders and market leaders To forecast the market size of segments for five main regions: North America , Europe , Asia Pacific , Middle East & Africa , and Latin America , , , & , and To profile key players and comprehensively analyze their market rankings and core competencies. To analyze competitive developments, such as partnerships, new product launches, and mergers and acquisitions, in the M2M Satellite Communication Market To analyze the impact of recession across all the regions across the M2M Satellite Communication Market. Browse Adjacent Markets: Satellite Communication Market Research Reports & Consulting Related Reports: Intelligent Building Automation Technologies Market - Global Forecast to 2028 Traffic Management Market- Global Forecast to 2028 Perimeter Security Market - Global Forecast to 2027 Smart Ticketing Market - Global Forecast to 2026 Maritime Satellite Communication Market - Global Forecast to 2025 About MarketsandMarkets MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's best management consulting firms by Forbes, as per their recent report. MarketsandMarkets is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. We have the widest lens on emerging technologies, making us proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients. Earlier this year, we made a formal transformation into one of America's best management consulting firms as per a survey conducted by Forbes. The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion of new revenue streams that are substituting existing revenue streams in this decade alone. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines - TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing. 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Contact: Mr. Aashish Mehra MarketsandMarkets INC. 630 Dundee Road Suite 430 Northbrook, IL 60062 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: [email protected] Research Insight: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/m2m-satellite-communication-market.asp Visit Our Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ Content Source: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/PressReleases/m2m-satellite-communication.asp Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2297424/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg SOURCE MarketsandMarkets CHICAGO, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The machine-to-machine (M2M) connections market is projected to grow from USD 2.9 billion units in 2024 to USD 5.3 billion units by 2029, registering a CAGR of 12.7% during the forecast period according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. The market growth is attributed to increasing support by the government towards M2M connections and the growing popularity of smart cities and connected cars. Furthermore, the emergence of M2M devices in telemedicine is expected to create lucrative opportunities for the market. Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=732 Browse in-depth TOC on "Machine-to-machine (M2M) Connections Market" 120 Tables 60 Figures 200 Pages Machine Safety Market Machine-to-machine (M2M) Connections Market Report Scope: Report Coverage Details Market Revenue in 2024 $ 2.9 billion Estimated Value by 2029 $ 5.3 billion Growth Rate Poised to grow at a CAGR of 12.7% Market Size Available for 20202029 Forecast Period 20242029 Forecast Units Value (USD Million/Billion) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered By Technology, End-user Industry, and Region Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of World Key Market Challenge Privacy and security Key Market Opportunities Emergence of M2M devices in Telemedicine Key Market Drivers Growing popularity of smart cities and connected cars The short range wireless technology machine-to-machine (M2M) connections segment is expected to account for the largest share of the machine-to-machine (M2M) connections market in 2024. The short-range segment is a significant market for machine-to-machine (M2M) connections. Short-range technologies have a larger number of connections than cellular because cellular wireless standards are mainly used for dubbing and aggregation purposes in applications such as hospitals, power plants, oil and gas refineries, retail stores, and smart appliances, while short-range modules are used for the distribution of the cellular network throughout that concerned area of application. Universal subscriber identity modules (USIMs) are not very suitable for application in M2M devices, which require modules with a higher level of resistance in severe environments, better robustness, and longer data retention. These attributes are available in Machine Identification Modules or M2M Identification Modules (MIM), which have been specifically developed for M2M applications. Unlike conventional SIMs, which are issued to general consumers, MIMs are used in machines communicating with each other. The high demand for these modules is indicative of the high growth of the cellular M2M connection market. The Automotive & Transportation segment is expected to account for the largest share of the machine-to-machine (M2M) connections market in 2024. The automotive & transportation segment accounted for the largest share of the machine-to-machine (M2M) connections market in 2024, and a similar trend is expected to be witnessed during the forecast period. The recent developments in automotive & transportation that are expected to drive the growth are: Public transportation, such as buses and trains, will transform through connectivity. Subway cars in New York City will be equipped with chargers, built-in Wi-Fi, and security cameras, according to the city's Metropolitan Transportation Authority. In June 2021, The European Union Funded the 5G-IANA project with over USD 7 million to develop an Automotive Open Experimental Platform (AOEP). The goal is to look into the market condition and identify opportunities for innovation and sustainable long-term development of 5G in the automotive sector. Inquiry Before Buying: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Enquiry_Before_BuyingNew.asp?id=732 The Asia Pacific market is expected to witness the highest CAGR in the machine-to-machine (M2M) connections market during the forecast period. Asia Pacific is projected to record the highest CAGR during the forecast period. China, India, South Korea, and Japan are the major contributors to the growth of the machine-to-machine (M2M) connections industry in Asia Pacific. Asia Pacific has been ahead of other regions in terms of the adoption of M2M connections products and solutions. Continuous demand for cost-effective and highly efficient M2M connections from consumer electronics, utilities, healthcare, automotive & transportation, among other industries is expected to drive the growth of the M2M connections market in this region. Furthermore, many countries in the Asia-Pacific region, such as China and India, have been actively investing in smart city projects. M2M connections play a crucial role in creating connected and intelligent urban environments and addressing issues related to transportation, energy, and public services. For instance, the Indian government has announced a plan to develop 100 smart cities in India. All industries are seeing a boom phase in the commercialization of IoT, particularly in Asia Pacific's developing nations. As a hub for significant investments and business expansion, the region has gained international attention. The high production and consumption of electronic devices in Asia Pacific are likely to drive significant growth in the area. Key players Key players in the machine-to-machine (M2M) connections companies include AT&T Intellectual Property (US), Cisco Systems, Inc. (US), Huawei Technologies (China), NXP Semiconductors N.V. (Netherlands), Texas Instruments Incorporated (US), Intel Corporation (US), China Mobile International Limited (China), Thales (France), Vodafone Group Plc (UK), Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd. (Japan), U-Blox Holding AG (Switzerland), and among others. Get 10% Free Customization on this Report: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestCustomizationNew.asp?id=732 Browse Adjacent Market: Semiconductor and Electronics Market Research Reports &Consulting Related Reports: Cellular M2M Market by Service (Connectivity, Professional, and Managed), Application (Asset Tracking and Monitoring, Predictive Maintenance, Telemedicine, and Fleet Management), End User, Organization Size, and Region - Global Forecast to 2025 Wireless Connectivity Market by Connectivity (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Classic, Bluetooth 4X, Bluetooth 5X, ZigBee, Z-Wave, UWB, NFC, Thread, GNSS, Cellular, EnOcean, Sigfox, LoRa, LTE Cat-M1, NB-IoT), End-use and Region - Global Forecast to 2027 U.S. Machine-to-Machine (M2M) Connections Market by Technology (Wired and Wireless), Industry Verticals (Healthcare, Utilities, Retail, Consumer Electronics, Automotive & Transportation, Security & Surveillance, and Others) - Forecast to 2020 IoT Chip Market Size, Share by Hardware (Processor, Connectivity IC, Sensor, Memory Device and Logic Device), Power Consumption, End-use Application (Wearable Devices, Consumer Electronics, Building Automation and Retail) and Region - Global Forecast to 2025 Wi-Fi Chipset Market by IEEE Standard (802.11be, 802.11ax, 802.11ac), End-use application (Consumer, Smarthome, AR/VR, Networking Devices), Band, MIMO configuration, Vertical and Geography About MarketsandMarkets MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's best management consulting firms by Forbes, as per their recent report. MarketsandMarkets is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. We have the widest lens on emerging technologies, making us proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients. Earlier this year, we made a formal transformation into one of America's best management consulting firms as per a survey conducted by Forbes. The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion of new revenue streams that are substituting existing revenue streams in this decade alone. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines - TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing. Built on the 'GIVE Growth' principle, we work with several Forbes Global 2000 B2B companies - helping them stay relevant in a disruptive ecosystem. Our insights and strategies are molded by our industry experts, cutting-edge AI-powered Market Intelligence Cloud, and years of research. The KnowledgeStore (our Market Intelligence Cloud) integrates our research, facilitates an analysis of interconnections through a set of applications, helping clients look at the entire ecosystem and understand the revenue shifts happening in their industry. To find out more, visit www.MarketsandMarkets.com or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook. Contact: Mr. Aashish Mehra MarketsandMarkets INC. 630 Dundee Road Suite 430 Northbrook, IL 60062 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: [email protected] Visit Our Web Site: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ Research Insight: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/machine-to-machine-market.asp Content Source: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/PressReleases/machine-to-machine1.asp Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2297424/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg SOURCE MarketsandMarkets Bronze Sponsor Monterey Financial to Showcase Revolutionary Solutions in Timeshare and Travel Club Financing SAN DIEGO, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Monterey Financial, LLC , (MFS) has been a leading player in the Consumer Finance, Loan Servicing Management, and Delinquent Debt Recovery sectors for over thirty years. Known for its innovative approach to solving complex financial receivables challenges faced by entrepreneurs across various industries, MFS is delighted to share that it will be participating as a Bronze sponsor at the highly anticipated GNEX 2024 Conference at the Historic Fontainebleau, Miami Beach, Florida scheduled from February 20-22, 2024. During the event, MFS will showcase its expertise in the vacation industry, offering insightful solutions to meet the unique needs of businesses in this field. At the GNEX Miami 2024 Conference, MFS will be showcasing innovative new solutions in both timeshare and travel club financing opportunities. As a leading bronze event sponsor, MFS demonstrates its commitment to driving innovation and shaping the industry. Brokers attending the conference can expect to gain valuable insights into cutting-edge financing options that will empower them to redefine the way vacation properties are financed. Gina Frame, Monterey Financial's esteemed Account Executive, and former GNEX presenter exclaims, "We are honored to attend and exhibit at GNEX Miami 2024. Our dedication to transform timeshare and travel club financing and empower developers and brokers to achieve unrivaled access to new opportunities and redefine the future of the industry is unparalleled." With their deep understanding of the ever-evolving vacation landscape, Monterey will provide industry leaders with groundbreaking solutions that unlock new possibilities for businesses and their clients. MFS is looking to revolutionize how businesses finance their consumers in the vacation sector. With their new approach to down payment financing, businesses can unlock a much larger base of customers. MFS Financial invites everyone to visit their dedicated booth at the GNEX 2024 Conference. Here, they will have the opportunity to engage with MFS's passionate team and gain comprehensive insights into the tailored services designed exclusively for the vacation industry. Attendees can explore potential collaborations and discover how Monterey Financial's expertise can enhance their business, ensuring they stay ahead in this rapidly evolving industry. Monterey Financial Services, LLC (MFS) continues to provide a significant service for businesses in the travel industry, offering the option to sell bulk portfolios of consumer receivables. This enduring offer is particularly beneficial for companies seeking to boost their liquidity and strengthen their balance sheets, allowing for more flexibility in their financial planning. Leveraging Monterey's deep expertise in consumer finance and debt management, travel businesses can optimize their financial strategies, ensuring stability and focus on core operations. Stop by to connect with Monterey Financial, LLC participating and sponsoring in the esteemed GNEX 2024 Conference at the Fontainebleau in Miami Beach, Florida scheduled from February 20-22, 2024. Attendees looking to unlock the full potential of vacation financing are encouraged to visit Monterey Financial's booth and discover visionary solutions that empower them to become leaders within the vacation industry. About Monterey Financial Services: Monterey's mission statement: To empower every business with the ability to optimize their sales through financing while maximizing growth and cash recovery. Monterey Financial Services has forged a reputation for unparalleled customer service, developing tailor-made consumer finance solutions for businesses selling products and services to consumers. Solutions are built to fit clients' requirements, whether they bundle Monterey services together or use what appeals to their specific needs. With services such as consumer finance , rent-to-own financing, loan servicing , custodial services, and delinquent debt collections , clients have the opportunity to profit from consumer receivables of all credit classifications and all stages of the receivables life cycle. With industry-leading results, Monterey remains committed to combining the best technology with its talented staff to achieve a primary objective for its clients to optimize portfolio performance.Contact Monterey Financial at 1-800-456-2225 or reach out through Monterey Financial's website here to learn more. Media Contact: Jessica Kopach-Paulson The JKO Agency, LLC. [email protected] D: 1-800-456-2225 SOURCE Monterey Financial Services, LLC. From Calming Herbs to Anti-Aging, the Brand's Holistic Offering of Supplements Provides Comprehensive, Natural Support for a Stressed Out Mind and Body FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Stress is a common factor in the modern world. Countless factors, such as busy lifestyles, the 24-hour news cycle, and an endless barrage of notifications, have put a growing mental strain on 21st-century consumers. Increased awareness has also shed light on how rampant stress is, especially in America. According to data from the American Institute of Stress (via Cross River Therapy ), 55% of Americans are stressed "throughout the day," and 75% of those living in the U.S. have experienced stress within the last month. It is also a primary health concern for students in high school. A problem that is so universal requires a safe and effective solution that is equally comprehensive. Enter Nature's Body. The Australian holistic health brand offers a range of high-quality supplements that focus on formulas made of natural ingredients. Many of these directly address stress. "Our supplements are designed to make a positive difference in your life," explains company spokesperson Margot Bouchara. "We function as an ongoing partner in health and wellness which is necessary if you're going to manage stress over the long term." One doesn't have to look far to see the comprehensiveness of the Nature's Body approach to natural wellness. In the area of stress alone, it features instantly recognizable natural solutions. Its Ashwagandha supplement, for example, delivers clean doses of an herb that is well known as an anti-stress agent and is a major ingredient in many Ayurvedic recipes. The brand has less mainstream solutions, as well. Its Lion's Mane Mushroom , for instance, can bring relief to mild symptoms of depression and anxiety. It has also shown signs of helping guard against the effects of dementia. This complements the brand's Mag L-Threonate a pure source of a natural wellness tool that may be able to help improve brain function and cognition. Stress is a normal part of life. It's also a common struggle for many living in the fast-paced modern American culture. But it doesn't have to go unaddressed. Nature's Body is ideal for those looking for a partner who can help them manage their ongoing anxiety with safe, effective, high-quality natural health and wellness tools. About Nature's Body Nature's Body is a health and wellness brand that was founded in 2012 and operates out of Noosaville in Queensland, Australia. The company's primary focus is to create high-quality supplements and wellness-related products that support anti-aging, immunity, brain health, weight management, skin health, and more. Nature's Body is already popular in the Land Down Under and is in the process of expanding into the U.S. marketplace. Learn more at naturesbody.com.au . Contact: Margot Bouchara [email protected] Ph:(+61) 1800 558 218 SOURCE Nature's Body There are several ways to avoid probate in Massachusetts, including living trusts. Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person's estate including their assets and debts is managed and distributed. Probate can be complex, time-consuming and potentially costly in Massachusetts, especially in cases of larger or disputed estates. However, there are ways to avoid probate altogether in the Bay State, but they require some planning and an understanding of how this legal process works. Need help planning your estate? A financial advisor with estate planning expertise can be a valuable resource. How Probate Works in Massachusetts In Massachusetts, the probate process ensures that a deceased person's assets get distributed according to their will or state law, thereby providing a legal avenue for their wishes to be respected. There are two common variations of probate in Massachusetts: Informal and formal. The former is a simplified process designed for straightforward cases, requiring less court supervision. In contrast, the latter is a more detailed process that requires greater court involvement. Whether an estate goes through informal and formal probate depends on factors such as the nature of the deceaseds estate and any potential conflicts among beneficiaries. For instance, if the estate is straightforward with no disputes among beneficiaries, informal probate may be more suitable. However, for complex estates or those with disputes, formal probate might be more appropriate. According to the State of Massachusetts, the state Uniform Probate Code Magistrate not a judge administers informal probate. As a result, the process can be more expedient, taking as few as seven days for a magistrate to issue an order. However, informal probate is reserved for only cases in which the original will and official death certificate of the deceased are available. Keep in mind that informal probate is only possible when a judge isn't needed to sign a final decree, the names and locations of heirs are known, as well as other requirements. Story continues However, several types of circumstances will necessitate formal probate. For example, formal probate is necessary when the will is a copy (not the original), it has handwritten words added to it or words deleted from it. Formal probate is also required when a minor or an incapacitated person needs to be represented. If there are objections to the process playing out via informal probate, the formal process must take place. There is a third kind of probate process in Massachusetts late/limited probate designated for estates that haven't been settled within three years of a person's death. Ways to Avoid Probate in Massachusetts Probate is the legal process in Massachusetts through which wills are validated and estates are settled. In Massachusetts, probate can take up to a year, sometimes even longer if the estate is complex. It can also be costly, with court and attorney fees taking up to 5% of the estates value. Furthermore, probate is a public process, meaning the details of the deceaseds estate become accessible to the public. Therefore, many individuals use different estate planning strategies to avoid probate so that they could maintain privacy, save on costs and expedite the distribution of assets. In Massachusetts, you have several strategies at your disposal. The most common methods are living trusts, joint ownership, payable-on-death accounts and transfer-on-death registration. Each method comes with its own benefits and drawbacks, and its suitability varies depending on your circumstances and the type of assets involved. Living Trusts A living trust is a legal entity where you can place your assets while youre alive. When you pass away, these assets are then managed by a successor trustee who's responsible for distributing them to your beneficiaries, bypassing the probate process. Living trusts offer privacy, as the details of the trust are not made public. They also provide flexibility, as you can modify them at any time during your lifetime. Moreover, the transfer of assets to beneficiaries is usually swifter when compared with the probate process. However, setting up a living trust comes with its own set of challenges. Living trusts can be expensive to set up and maintain. They require the transfer of property into the trust, which might involve fees and a significant amount of paperwork. A living trust only covers the assets explicitly placed into it. Any assets not included in the trust might still be subject to probate. Joint Ownership Joint ownership refers to assets owned by two or more individuals. Upon the death of one of the owners, the decedents share automatically passes to the surviving owners, thus avoiding probate. In Massachusetts, two types of joint ownership can be used to avoid probate: Joint tenancy with rights of survivorship and tenancy by the entirety. Joint tenancy with rights of survivorship : Joint tenants with rights of survivorship share equal ownership of property, and the surviving owner automatically inherits the decedents share upon their death. This type of ownership can apply to various types of assets, including real estate and bank accounts. Tenancy by the entirety: Similar to joint tenancy with rights of survivorship, this form of joint ownership is exclusively for married couples and can provide some protection against creditors. Payable-on-Death Accounts A payable-on-death account is a type of bank account that allows the account holder to designate a beneficiary who will receive the funds directly upon the account holders death, bypassing probate. These accounts are simple to set up, often requiring only the completion of a form provided by the bank. However, payable-on-death accounts only cover cash assets. They do not apply to real estate, vehicles, securities or other types of property. While they can be a useful part of an estate plan, they often need to be combined with other methods to fully avoid probate. Transfer-on-Death Designation A transfer-on-death designation is a way to pass the ownership of securities like stocks and bonds directly to a designated beneficiary upon the owners death, avoiding probate. However, not all types of assets can be registered in this way. For instance, as of the latest update, Massachusetts law does not allow for transfer-on-death registration of real estate or vehicles. This limitation means that other methods of probate avoidance, such as joint ownership or living trusts, may be more effective for these types of assets in Massachusetts. Probate for Small Estates The Massachusetts State House in Boston. Small estates, in the context of probate, refer to properties valued under a certain amount, which varies by jurisdiction. In Massachusetts, estates worth less than $25,000 may not be subject to full probate. In fact, there are two official processes by which small estates can go through an expedited form of probate: Voluntary administration and summary administration. Voluntary Administration of Small Estates Voluntary administration is a type of simplified probate for estates that are worth less than $25,000 and do not include real estate. To be eligible for voluntary administration, 30 days must pass after the decedent's death and no petition has been filed requesting probate. To apply for voluntary administration, the estate will have to file a form called a Voluntary Administration Statement (Form MPC 170), along with a certified copy of the death certificate and original will, if there is one. These documents can be filed online, by mail or in person at the Probate & Family Court for the county in which the person was living when they died. Keep in mind there's a $115 filing fee for voluntary administration. Summary Administration of Small Estates Like voluntary administration, summary administration is a streamlined probate process used when an estates value is below a certain threshold. However, summary administration is a bit more complicated. According to the General Laws of Massachusetts, the personal representative can "disburse and distribute" the estate to heirs via summary administration, as long as a number of conditions are met. This can happen when the value of the entire estate once all debts are accounted for is not greater than any family allowances, exempt property allowances, the cost of probate, funeral expenses, as well as any medical bills related to the person's last illness. Bottom Line There are several avenues and strategies for avoiding probate in Massachusetts, including living trusts, joint ownership, payable-on-death accounts and transfer-on-death designations. But, small estates may qualify for a simplified version of probate through either voluntary and summary administration. Estate Planning Tips The estate tax is a federal levy on the value of an estate that exceeds $13.61 million in 2024. This tax ranges from 18% to as high as 40%. However, its important to remember that 12 states, plus the District of Columbia, impose their own estate taxes. Meanwhile, your beneficiaries could also be on the hook for an inheritance tax. Trust and estate planning can be overwhelming but a financial advisor with expertise in these areas can help. Finding a financial advisor doesn't have to be hard. SmartAsset's 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 you're ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now. Photo credit: iStock.com/DenisTangneyJr, iStock.com/stocknshares, iStock.com/Timothy Martin The post How to Avoid Probate in Massachusetts appeared first on SmartReads by SmartAsset. CHICAGO, Feb. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Nuclear Power Plant Control System Market is expected to reach USD 825 million by 2028 from USD 636 million in 2023 at a CAGR of 5.3% during the 20232028 period according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. Nuclear energy as clean energy is a more reliable way of producing electricity on a large scale. The versatile nature of nuclear energy could enable the transition to a cleaner world and a stronger global economy this is pivotal in propelling the expansion of the Nuclear Power Plant Control System Market. Furthermore, the global expansion of nuclear power has heightened the adoption of nuclear power plant control systems. The amalgamation of these systems with renewable energy contributes to their increased demand, aligning with global efforts to diminish reliance on fossil fuels and minimize carbon footprints. Government support and stringent safety regulations are pivotal factors driving the growth of the Nuclear Power Plant Control System Market. To incentivize the development and expansion of nuclear power plants, many governments provide financial support, subsidies, and favorable regulatory environments. Browse in-depth TOC on "Nuclear Power Plant Control System Market" 112 Tables 57 Figures 185 Pages Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=213998778 Nuclear Power Plant Control System Market Scope: Report Coverage Details Market Revenue in 2023 $636 million Estimated Value by 2028 $825 million Growth Rate Poised to Grow at a CAGR of 5.3% Largest Market Asia Pacific Market Size Available for 2022-2028 Forecast Period 2022-2028 Forecast Units Value (USD Million) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered Nuclear Power Plant Control System Market by Component, Solution, Application, and Region. Geographies Covered Americas, Asia Pacific, Europe, and Middle East & Africa. Key Market Opportunities Development of new control system technologies Key Market Drivers Global Nuclear Power Expansion Hardware, by component, is expected to be the largest segment during the forecast period. Based on components, the Nuclear Power Plant Control System Market is categorized into three categories: hardware, software, and services. The hardware is expected to be the largest segment. The growing demand for remote monitoring and control is expected to drive growth in this market. Increased reliability of the control system is achieved through the use of various backup hardware. One of the main factors propelling the Nuclear Power Plant Control System Market's hardware segment is the rise in automation initiatives in large power plants. The Distributed Control System (DCS), by solution, is expected to be the largest segment during the forecast period. Based on the solution, the nuclear power plant control systems market is segmented into five categories: distributed control system (DCS), programmable logic controller (PLC), supervisory control & data acquisition (SCADA), industrial safety, and others. Establishing diversity and fault tolerance in DCS components enhances operational continuity and shows a strong commitment to the required safety and reliability standards in nuclear power plants. Reliability is crucial in the complex world of nuclear power operations, providing a robust architecture for backup and fault tolerance in DCS components. It is important to strengthen the control system against potential failures due to the critical nature of nuclear reactors. Request Sample Pages: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=213998778 Asia Pacific is expected to be the fastest-growing region in the Nuclear Power Plant Control System Industry. Asia Pacific is expected to be the fastest-growing region in the Nuclear Power Plant Control System Market during the forecast period. The Asia Pacific region comprises major economies such as China, Japan, South Korea, Rest of Asia Pacific. Greater energy supply is required with the rapid urbanization and economic growth, and nuclear energy is developing as a clean, dependable baseload alternative. Governments are encouraging its development, especially in the case of elderly plants in need of upgrading. The need for advanced control systems is being driven by increased safety concerns. There are 53 nuclear power plants operating in China right now, and there are 143 in planning and 21 more under construction. The need to develop a qualified workforce and use renewable energy sources is also driving market expansion. The Asia Pacific region's chances for nuclear power plant control systems seem bright in the face of competition and environmental concerns. Key Players Some of the major players in the Nuclear Power Plant Control System Companies are Siemens (Germany), ABB (Switzerland), General Electric (US), Fortum (Finland), and Framatome (France). The major strategies adopted by these players include new product launches, acquisitions, contracts, agreements, partnerships, joint ventures, collaborations, investments, and expansions. Browse Adjacent Markets: Energy and Power Market Research Reports & Consulting Related Reports: Nuclear Power Plant Equipment Market by Reactor Type (Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR), Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR), Boiling Water Reactor (BWR)), Equipment Type (Island Equipment, Auxiliary Equipment) Region - Global Forecast to 2027 Power Plant Control System Market by Plant Type (Coal, Natural Gas, Hydroelectric, Nuclear, Oil, and Renewable), Solution (SCADA, DCS, Programmable Controllers), Component, Application, and Region - Global Forecast to 2026 About MarketsandMarkets MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's best management consulting firms by Forbes, as per their recent report. MarketsandMarkets is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. We have the widest lens on emerging technologies, making us proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients. Earlier this year, we made a formal transformation into one of America's best management consulting firms as per a survey conducted by Forbes. The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion of new revenue streams that are substituting existing revenue streams in this decade alone. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines - TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing. Built on the 'GIVE Growth' principle, we work with several Forbes Global 2000 B2B companies - helping them stay relevant in a disruptive ecosystem. Our insights and strategies are molded by our industry experts, cutting-edge AI-powered Market Intelligence Cloud, and years of research. The KnowledgeStore (our Market Intelligence Cloud) integrates our research, facilitates an analysis of interconnections through a set of applications, helping clients look at the entire ecosystem and understand the revenue shifts happening in their industry. To find out more, visit www.MarketsandMarkets.com or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook. Contact: Mr. Aashish Mehra MarketsandMarkets INC. 630 Dundee Road Suite 430 Northbrook, IL 60062 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: [email protected] Research Insight: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/nuclear-power-plant-control-system-market.asp Visit Our Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ Content Source: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/PressReleases/nuclear-power-plant-control-system.asp Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2297424/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg SOURCE MarketsandMarkets The Orphan Drugs Market, crucial in addressing rare diseases, thrives on medical breakthroughs, genetic research, and regulatory incentives. Valued at $415.2 billion by 2028, this sector plays a pivotal role in providing innovative treatments for conditions with limited prevalence but significant impact on patients' lives. BOSTON, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- "According to the latest BCC Research study, the demand for Global Markets for Orphan Drugs is estimated to increase from $233.9 billion in 2023 to reach $415.2 billion by 2028, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.2% from 2023 through 2028." This comprehensive study delves into the global pharmaceutical markets, focusing on orphan drugs and their therapeutic applications for rare and orphan diseases. The report meticulously analyzes the regulatory landscape, patents, and recent innovations within the industry. Each submarket is scrutinized, offering insights into applications, projections, and market shares, while technological trends and developments are thoroughly examined. Regional segmentation covers North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World, with a particular focus on the regulatory framework for clinical trials in rare diseases. The report extends its analysis to trends in clinical trials conducted between 1999-2018, providing valuable insights from diverse sources. Furthermore, a detailed overview of the global orphan drugs market and its competitive landscape is presented, encompassing acquisition strategies, collaborations, and an exploration of the industry's strengths, weaknesses, and evolving customer needs. In 2022, the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) made substantial strides in addressing the treatment needs of patients with rare diseases, as evidenced by the authorization of 54% of their 37 new medication approvals for uncommon or orphan diseases. These conditions, affecting fewer than 200,000 individuals in the United States, often lack adequate treatment options. Notably, giants in the pharmaceutical industry such as Eli Lilly, Pfizer, Inc., Bristol-Myers-Squibb, and Novartis AG have actively entered the competitive landscape of the multi-billion-dollar rare diseases treatment market. The ongoing competition among these pharmaceutical companies adds an intriguing dimension to the industry, leaving anticipation about which player will emerge as a dominant force in this critical and expanding market in the near future. Uncover detailed insights and future trends in the Orphan Drugs market by accessing our comprehensive BCC Research report click here to Learn More. Key Drivers of Global Markets for Orphan Drugs Favorable Orphan Drug Act and Similar Legislation: The Orphan Drug Act, enacted to incentivize the development of treatments for rare diseases, provides pharmaceutical companies with significant benefits, including extended market exclusivity, tax credits, and regulatory assistance. Similar legislation worldwide reinforces these incentives, creating a conducive environment for companies to invest in research and development for orphan drugs. Technological Advances in Genomics: The rapid progress in genomics has revolutionized the understanding of rare diseases, facilitating targeted drug development. Advances such as precision medicine and gene therapies enable pharmaceutical companies to design more effective and personalized treatments, addressing the specific genetic components of orphan diseases. Lack of Competition from Generic Drugs: The orphan drug market benefits from limited competition, as generic drug manufacturers are often deterred by the small patient populations associated with rare diseases. This lack of competition allows orphan drug developers to maintain pricing control and recoup their investments, making the market more attractive for sustained research and development efforts. Patent Extensions: Pharmaceutical companies developing orphan drugs receive extended patent exclusivity as part of the regulatory incentives. These extensions provide an extended period of market exclusivity, allowing companies to recover development costs and generate revenue, making the orphan drug market economically viable for sustained innovation. Premium Pricing of Orphan Drugs: Due to the unique status of orphan drugs and the associated development challenges, pharmaceutical companies can command premium prices for these treatments. The pricing flexibility compensates for the limited patient pool and high development costs, ensuring the financial viability of orphan drug development projects. Innovations in Manufacturing Technologies: Advancements in manufacturing technologies, such as continuous manufacturing and advanced bioprocessing, contribute to more efficient and cost-effective production of orphan drugs. These innovations streamline manufacturing processes, making it more feasible for pharmaceutical companies to bring rare disease treatments to market. Increasing Collaborations and Licensing Agreements: Recognizing the complexity of orphan drug development, there is a growing trend of collaborations and licensing agreements between pharmaceutical companies, academic institutions, and biotech firms. These partnerships facilitate the sharing of resources, expertise, and risks, fostering a collaborative environment that accelerates the development and availability of orphan drugs. Request a Sample Copy of the Global Markets for Orphan Drugs Report. Report Synopsis Report Metrics Details Base year considered 2022 Forecast Period considered 2023-2028 Base year market size $210.0 billion Market Size Forecast $415.2 billion Growth Rate CAGR of 12.2% for the forecast period of 2023-2028 Segment Covered Product Type, Therapeutic Application, Region Regions covered North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Rest of the World (RoW) Countries covered U.S., Canada, Mexico, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Turkey, Austria, Poland, Germany, UK, France, China, India, Japan, Australia, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam, Middle East and Africa Key Market Drivers Favorable Orphan Drug Act and Similar Legislation Technological Advances in Genomics Lack of Competition from Generic Drugs Patent Extensions Premium Pricing of Orphan Drugs Innovations in Manufacturing Technologies Increasing Collaborations and Licensing Agreements Orphan Drugs Market Segmentation Orphan Drugs Market, By Product Type Segmentation: The orphan drugs market is categorized into two main product types: Biological and Non-biological. The Biological segment encompasses drugs derived from living organisms or their components, including vaccines, gene therapies, and monoclonal antibodies. These innovative therapies often target specific molecular pathways, providing precision in treating rare diseases. The non-biological segment includes chemically synthesized drugs, small molecules, and traditional pharmaceuticals. This category comprises a diverse range of orphan drugs, from small-molecule compounds addressing metabolic disorders to conventional pharmaceuticals tackling rare cancers. The differentiation between Biological and Non-biological products reflects the evolving landscape of orphan drug development, with biological therapies showcasing advancements in precision medicine and biotechnology, while non-biological drugs continue to play a crucial role in addressing rare diseases through traditional pharmacological approaches. The segmentation allows for a nuanced understanding of the diverse therapeutic modalities contributing to the expansive and dynamic orphan drugs market. Orphan Drugs Market, By Therapeutic Application Segmentation: The Orphan Drugs Market is strategically segmented based on therapeutic applications, reflecting the diverse range of rare diseases addressed by orphan drugs. Within this categorization, Oncology stands out as a prominent sector, with orphan drugs designed to combat rare cancers such as pancreatic cancer and multiple myeloma. Blood disorders, encompassing conditions like hemophilia and hereditary angioedema, constitute another critical segment, emphasizing the market's commitment to addressing hematologic and immunologic diseases. Central Nervous System applications include treatments for rare neurologic disorders such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy and Alzheimer's disease. Respiratory System drugs target conditions like cystic fibrosis, while Immunomodulators address disorders requiring immune system modulation. Cardiovascular Therapies, Endocrine System treatments, and Musculoskeletal System drugs offer solutions for rare diseases across multiple organ systems. The inclusive "Others" category accounts for various additional therapeutic applications, highlighting the extensive scope and commitment of the orphan drugs market to address unmet medical needs across diverse medical domains. Orphan Drugs Market, by Region Segmentation: The regional segmentation of the Orphan Drugs Market reflects the global distribution of efforts to address rare diseases. North America emerges as a key player, with a robust market driven by a combination of technological advancements, favorable regulatory frameworks, and substantial investments in research and development. Europe, similarly, boasts a significant market share, propelled by initiatives to incentivize orphan drug development and a strong emphasis on healthcare innovation. The Asia-Pacific region showcases increasing involvement, driven by a rising awareness of rare diseases, improving healthcare infrastructure, and a growing focus on precision medicine. The Rest of the World segment encapsulates emerging markets, where efforts are being made to enhance access to orphan drugs and address specific regional healthcare challenges. This regional breakdown highlights the global collaboration and commitment required to make orphan drugs accessible to patients worldwide, ensuring that geographical disparities do not hinder progress in tackling rare diseases. This report on Global Markets for Orphan Drugs provides comprehensive insights and analysis, addressing the following key questions: 1. What is the projected market size and growth rate of the market? The global orphan drugs market was valued at an estimated $233.9 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $415.2 billion by 2028, at an estimated CAGR of 12.2% during the forecast period of 2023 to 2028. 2. What are the key factors driving the growth of the market? Favorable Orphan Drugs Act and similar legislations Technological advancements in genomics Patent extensions Premium pricing for orphan drugs 3. What segments are covered in the market? The report will provide information on orphan drugs along with their growth projections in the coming years. Recent developments of companies operating in this market space have been covered. Information about product pipelines, pricing analysis, clinical trials will help the intended audience formulate investment plans and business strategies. The report also identifies promising and emerging countries where the established players can plausibly expand their business. 4. By product type, which segment will dominate the market by the end of 2028? The biological orphan drugs segment dominates the overall orphan drugs market and will continue to do so by 2028. 5. Which region has the highest market share in the market? North America holds the highest share in the market. Some of the Key Market Players Are: ABBVIE INC. ASTELLAS PHARMA INC. ASTRAZENECA PLC BRISTOL MYERS SQUIBB EISAI CO. LTD. ELI LILLY AND CO. F. HOFFMANN-LA ROCHE LTD. MERCK & CO. INC. NOVARTIS AG PFIZER INC. SANOFI S.A. TAKEDA PHARMACEUTICAL CO. LTD. Browse More Related Reports: Global Markets and Manufacturing Technologies for Protein Drugs: This comprehensive report delves into the intricate landscape of the protein drugs market, centering its analysis on the classification and manufacturing technologies associated with these therapeutic entities. The market is categorized into distinct segments, encompassing peptide hormones, monoclonal antibodies, cytokines, therapeutic enzymes, blood factors, vaccines, and peptide antibiotics. The manufacturing techniques explored in this report span a spectrum, including fractionation from natural human/animal sources, microbial fermentation, cell culture, chemical synthesis, transgenics, and embryonated eggs, providing a holistic view of the industry's production methodologies. The report meticulously examines each market segment, shedding light on their applications, regulatory frameworks, emerging trends, and recent developments, while also assessing the impact of drivers, restraints, and challenges on market dynamics. Comprehensive company profiles and share analyses for major players enrich the report, offering a nuanced understanding of the competitive landscape. Furthermore, market projections until 2026, along with patent analyses, contribute valuable insights. Geographical segmentation encompasses the United States, Europe, and emerging markets, including India, China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Canada, Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. The report employs data from 2019 and 2020 as the base years, providing market estimates and forecasts through 2026. This in-depth exploration positions the report as a valuable resource for stakeholders seeking a thorough comprehension of the protein drugs market. Rare Disease Diagnostics: Technologies and Global Markets: This comprehensive report on rare disease diagnostic technologies offers an in-depth exploration of various facets within the field. It meticulously examines the diagnostic technologies, applications, industries, initiatives, patents, and key companies operating in the rare disease diagnostic market. The report provides market data for 2018 and 2019 and forecasts trends through 2024. Genetic variation's significance in clinical testing and disease diagnosis is elucidated, with a focus on large-scale research initiatives impacting rare disease diagnostics globally. The market driving forces are analyzed, categorizing and quantifying the rare disease diagnostics market by disease category, technology platform, test purpose, analysis target, and geography. Disease categories range from cardiovascular to rare cancers, and technology platforms encompass mass spectrometry, microarrays, next-generation sequencing (NGS), PCR, Sanger sequencing, and others. The report also outlines industry sectors influencing rare disease diagnostics, including next-generation sequencing, PCR, RNA therapies, gene-editing therapies, and genetically modified cell therapies. Profiles of over 95 companies and a summary of more than 50 industry acquisitions and alliances from April 2018 through April 2020 enhance the report's comprehensiveness, making it an invaluable resource for stakeholders in the rare disease diagnostic landscape. Directly Purchase a copy of the report with BCC Research. For further information or to make a purchase, please get in touch with [email protected]. About BCC Research BCC Research provides objective, unbiased measurement and assessment of market opportunities with detailed market research reports. Our experienced industry analysts' goal is to help you make informed business decisions, free of noise and hype. Contact Us Corporate HQ: BCC Research LLC, 49 Walnut Park, Building 2, Wellesley, MA 02481, USA Email: [email protected], Phone: +1 781-489-7301 For media inquiries, email [email protected] or visit our media page for access to our market research library. Data and analysis extracted from this press release must be accompanied by a statement identifying BCC Research LLC as the source and publisher. Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2183242/BCC_Research_Logo.jpg SOURCE BCC Research LLC The two brands, alongside Around the World in 80 Fabrics, will collaborate on the design of a limited-edition travel bag crafted from sustainable fabrics that will debut at New York Fashion Week NEWARK, N.J., Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ --Today, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company announced its partnership with luxury fashion label MONSE to create a limited-edition travel bag for the Panasonic nanoe Travel Hair Dryer (EH-NA2C-W). Around the World in 80 Fabrics, a non-profit organization dedicated to education around nature-friendly fabrics being produced around the globe, also will collaborate on the project. Designed by MONSE, the limited-edition travel bag constructed of raw denim, crafted from domestic-grown cotton that has been spun, dyed, and woven by Around the World in 80 Fabrics partner, Huston Textile Co. The denim used to craft the travel bag will be featured on the runway at MONSE's New York Fashion Week show on February 10, 2024. "Throughout our collaboration with Panasonic, we had the opportunity to connect with exceptional fabric manufacturers specializing in eco-friendly textiles. Deliberately selecting indigo denima harmonious fusion of American and Japanese influenceswe crafted the bag in the silhouette of a traditional Japanese knot bag, imbuing it with a contemporary, deconstructed interpretation," said Laura Kim, Co-Creative Director of MONSE. Panasonic's partnership with MONSE is the latest effort by Panasonic as it furthers its ongoing commitments to sustainability and holistic well-being. Earlier this year, Panasonic announced its partnership with Around the World in 80 Fabrics at CES 2024 in Las Vegas with an installation featuring fully sustainably produced fabrics at the Panasonic booth. "The world of designer fashion brims with breathtaking creativity. We are excited to partner with Panasonic and MONSE to introduce unique fabrics that are healthy for people and the planet," said Dr. Tierney Thys, Co-Founder of Around the World in 80 Fabrics. "Every fabric has a face, a story, a footprint. By using traceable, regenerative eco-friendly fabrics, designers can make enormously powerful statements, not only with their product designs but also with the very materials they've selected." As part of this unique collaboration, the limited-edition travel bag will be sold in the (PANASONIC)RED product line. Since partnering with (RED) in 2022, Panasonic has committed over $700,000 to the Global Fund to help strengthen healthcare systems and fund life-saving programs that support equitable access to testing and treatment in communities most in need. Every (PANASONIC)RED product is part of this commitment. "Panasonic is evolving to be more than just a consumer electronics company. We want to provide consumers sustainably designed and ethically sourced products that they are excited to incorporate into their daily lives," said Michelle Esgar, Director of Marketing & Experience at Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. "While there is still more work to be done, partnering with other mission-driven brands like MONSE, Around the World in 80 Fabrics and (RED), is part of our larger vision to create a more sustainable future for everyone." The limited-edition travel bag and Panasonic nanoe Travel Hair Dryer (EH-NA2C-W) bundle will be available in the U.S. in Spring 2024 on Shop.Panasonic.com and the Amazon.com/red. About Panasonic Corporation of North America Newark, NJ-based Panasonic Corporation of North America is a leading provider of Consumer Lifestyle technologies, as well as innovative Smart Mobility, Sustainable Energy, Immersive Experiences, and Integrated Supply Chain solutions. The company is the principal North American subsidiary of Osaka, Japan-based Panasonic Holdings Corporation. One of Interbrand's Top 100 Best Global Brands of 2023, Panasonic is a leading technology partner and integrator to businesses, government agencies and consumers across the region. Learn more about Panasonic's ideas and innovations at na.panasonic.com/us About MONSE MONSE is a NYC-based luxury label founded in 2015 by Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia, who also serve as Creative Directors at Oscar de la Renta. The MONSE collections are inspired by menswear and classic tailoring with a deconstructed perspective. Elements like twisted tailoring, cascade hems, and slashed silhouettes are amongst the label's distinguished design details. MONSE is a line for the modern woman seeking to stand out from the crowd without compromising her effortless demeanor. About Around the World in 80 Fabrics ATW80Fabrics is an educational non-profit, celebrating the global biodiversity of environmentally and socially responsible fabrics. We elevate the voices of talented makers whose textile practices respect and restore our living ecosystems. With innovative exhibitions, programming and a growing fabric library, we celebrate makers and advise designers about functional alternatives to today's petroleum-soaked polluting fabrics. For more information, visit Around the World in 80 Fabrics. Panasonic North America Social Handles: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/panasonicpersonalcare/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@panasonicpersonalcare Product Info: https://shop.panasonic.com/pages/personalcare SOURCE Panasonic Corporation of North America PSEG Long Island employees will never insist and in most cases do not need to come inside UNIONDALE, N.Y., Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In light of a recent home invasion incident in Nassau County involving robbers dressed as utility workers, PSEG Long Island urges customers to know what its employees look like and what they typically do when making visits to a home. "The safety of customers and employees is our top priority at PSEG Long Island," said Lou Debrino, vice president of Customer Operations for PSEG Long Island. "In most cases, PSEG Long Island employees do not need to come inside your home to perform their work. Most meters are located outside, as is most of the electric equipment our company maintains. Our employees always wear their PSEG Long Island ID cards. Never open the door if you have any suspicion that the person knocking is not a legitimate PSEG Long Island employee." In-person visits Occasionally, scammers may go door to door impersonating PSEG Long Island employees, flashing a fake ID and/or claiming to be a utility collection representative. The impostors may wear "uniforms" or affix false company signs to their vehicles. The scammers generally ask for personal information, which real utility representatives do not do, or offer bogus discounts. PSEG Long Island employees must carry a company ID and present it when requested. If customers have doubts, they should not open the door. An actual PSEG Long Island employee will respect the customer's decision and remain outside. If the person escalates their efforts to enter the home, customers should consider calling 911. Phone scammers Scammers are still using phone calls to target homes and businesses on Long Island and in the Rockaways, impersonating PSEG Long Island and area utilities and demanding immediate payment for supposed unpaid bills. PSEG Long Island reminds customers do the right thing if confronted with a demand for payment and a threat of imminent shutoff: Get the truth from real PSEG Long Island representatives at 1-800-490-0025. Many of these scammers demand immediate payment via web-based electronic payment services. PSEG Long Island does not accept external, web-based electronic payment services (outside of payments through My Account) as a method of payment. What customers should know about payment scams Scammers impersonating PSEG Long Island most frequently threaten to shut off power immediately unless payment is made. Many scammers use phone "spoofing" technology to make their number display on your phone as "PSEG Long Island." PSEG Long Island will never request that customers use one specific method of payment. Scammers typically want their victims to transfer money via a web-based electronic payment service, a prepaid debit card, or even Bitcoin , sometimes asking people to buy a prepaid card at the nearest convenience store and then to read them the PIN over the phone. , sometimes asking people to buy a prepaid card at the nearest convenience store and then to read them the PIN over the phone. PSEG Long Island does not accept web-based electronic payment services, prepaid debit cards or Bitcoin as payment. as payment. Sometimes phone scammers will demand a deposit for a priority meter installation. PSEG Long Island does not require a deposit for meter installations. If a customer has doubts about the legitimacy of a call or an email especially one in which payment is requested they should call the company directly at 1-800-490-0025. Fake websites Some scammers purchase web domains that closely resemble the actual URL of a utility and create a fraudulent replica of the legitimate website. Their plan is to dupe users who click on these fake sites via search results, or type in an inaccurate web address. Once on the spoofed site, a visitor is presented a number of bill payment options, all pointing back to an outside bill pay site. PSEG Long Island always uses the ".com" domain. Its real website, including PSEG Long Island-hosted online payment options, can be found at psegliny.com. Other scammers contact customers, claim to be with PSEG Long Island, demand payment and then instruct their victims to pay by scanning a QR code they send. Customers should remember that PSEG Long Island will never request that customers use one specific method of payment, and does not accept web-based electronic payment services, prepaid debit cards or Bitcoin as payment. How actual PSEG Long Island reps handle phone calls Customers should also know what PSEG Long Island will and won't discuss over the phone. A genuine PSEG Long Island representative will ask to speak to the customer of record. If that person is available, the representative will explain why they are calling and provide the account name, address and current balance. If the person on the phone does not provide the correct information, it is likely the customer is not speaking with a PSEG Long Island representative. If the customer of record is not available, the PSEG Long Island representative will not discuss the account and ask that a message be left for the customer of record to call 1-800-490-0025. PSEG Long Island is a member of the Utilities United Against Scams (UUAS) collaborative. UUAS, a consortium of more than 150 U.S. and Canadian electric, water, and natural gas utilities and their respective trade associations, continues to raise customer awareness of common scams and new scam tactics used by utility impostors. Through its work and with the help of customer reporting, UUAS has successfully helped to take more than 14,020 toll-free numbers used by scammers against utility customers out of operation. For more information on various payment scams reported in the PSEG Long Island service area and around the country, visit psegliny.com/myaccount/customersupport/scamsandfraud. PSEG Long Island PSEG Long Island operates the Long Island Power Authority's transmission and distribution system under a long-term contract. PSEG Long Island is a subsidiary of Public Service Enterprise Group Inc. (PSEG) (NYSE:PEG), a publicly traded diversified energy company. Visit PSEG Long Island at: psegliny.com PSEG Long Island on Facebook PSEG Long Island on Instagram PSEG Long Island on X (formerly Twitter) PSEG Long Island on LinkedIn PSEG Long Island on YouTube PSEG Long Island on Flickr Contact: Media Relations Pager 516.229.7248 [email protected] SOURCE PSEG Long Island NEW YORK, Feb. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, announces the filing of a class action lawsuit on behalf of purchasers of securities of Hut 8 Corp. (NASDQ: HUT) between November 9, 2023 and January 18, 2024, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"). A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than April 8, 2024. SO WHAT: If you purchased Hut 8 securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the Hut 8 class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=22432 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] or [email protected] for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than April 8, 2024. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources or any meaningful peer recognition. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers. DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements, as well as failed to disclose material adverse facts about Hut 8's business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, defendants failed to disclose to investors that: (1) one of U.S. Data Mining Group, Inc. d/b/a US Bitcoin Corp.'s ("USBTC") largest shareholders is an undisclosed related party; (2) USBTC's core asset has historically failed to provide energy and high-speed internet; (3) the profitability of certain USBTC assets were overstated; and (4) as a result of the foregoing, defendants' positive statements about Hut 8's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages. To join the Hut 8 class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=22432 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] or [email protected] for information on the class action. No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff. Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Contact Information: Laurence Rosen, Esq. Phillip Kim, Esq. The Rosen Law Firm, P.A. 275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor New York, NY 10016 Tel: (212) 686-1060 Toll Free: (866) 767-3653 Fax: (212) 202-3827 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.rosenlegal.com SOURCE THE ROSEN LAW FIRM, P. A. MILWAUKEE, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Ademi LLP is investigating CRC (NYSE: CRC) for possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of law in its transaction with Aera Energy. Click here to learn how to join the https://www.ademilaw.com/case/california-resources-corporation or call Guri Ademi toll-free at 866-264-3995. There is no cost or obligation to you. In the transaction, CRC will issue 21.2 million shares of its common stock to the equity owners of Aera, and refinance Aera's outstanding debt. CRC has secured a firm commitment for a $500 million bridge loan facility to facilitate closing. At current valuations, the combined company would have an enterprise value of approximately $5.6 billion, with CRC shareholders owning approximately 77.1%. We are investigating the conduct of CRC's board of directors, and whether they are fulfilling their fiduciary duties to all shareholders. If you own CRC common stock and wish to obtain additional information, please contact Guri Ademi either at [email protected] or toll-free: 866-264-3995, or https://www.ademilaw.com/case/california-resources-corporation. We specialize in shareholder litigation involving buyouts, mergers, and individual shareholder rights throughout the country. For more information, please feel free to call us. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. Contacts Ademi LLP Guri Ademi Toll Free: (866) 264-3995 Fax: (414) 482-8001 SOURCE Ademi LLP Annual award program honors 247 individuals who demonstrated exceptional support for the Sitecore community SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Sitecore, a global leader in end-to-end digital experience management software, today announced the 2024 Sitecore Most Valuable Professionals (MVPs). In its 18th year, 247 MVPs are chosen for demonstrating outstanding engagement and support for the global Sitecore community. MVPs are evaluated by a panel of Sitecore employees ranging from developers to members of the executive team for their commitment to sharing knowledge and technical expertise with community partners, customers, and prospects. This year, MVPs were identified in the following three categories: Ambassadors (69 members), Strategy (31 members) and Technology (147 members). Over the 18-year history of Sitecore's MVP program a total of 247 MVPs have been honored at least five times. This year, nine MVPs celebrate a milestone of ten years, they are: Alan Coates, Elizabeth Spranzani, Goran Halvarsson, Himadri Chakrabarti, Jeremy Davis, Kris Verheire, Michael West, Suresh Devanan, Eric Orton, and Vasiliy Fomichev. "To be back honoring our MVPs for the 18th year in a row is a true privilege", said Dave O'Flanagan, Sitecore chief product officer. "It's always humbling to see how many people around the world contribute their time, energy and expertise to Sitecore. Each of the 2024 MVPs should be celebrated for deeply enriching our community. Our MVPs really are core to the global Sitecore experience and do a fantastic job to help everyone build the best digital experiences out there." Elizabeth Spranzani, new ten-time MVP honoree said: "Being a Sitecore MVP is something I treasure just as much today as the first time it was awarded to me 10 years ago. It is hard work because Sitecore sets the bar high. The MVPs are compelled forward each year by a combination of altruism to help others 'figure it out', and the adrenaline rush to plant the flag on an idea, becoming known as a subject matter expert. The community has a level of engagement, dedication, and loyalty that is truly unique compared to any other platform, and I'm thrilled to be a part of that." Eric Sanner, a first-time MVP added: "I am excited and honored to receive my first Sitecore Technology MVP! I used to think that being a good Sitecore developer, writing blogs and sharing them on social media was enough to become an MVP. It really is about the connections you make. It has been meaningful to become a member of the global Sitecore community. I have met many great people in the past year and made several new friends. This community has a passion for sharing knowledge and learning from each other which will become even more important as the Sitecore platform continues to change and new development practices emerge." Sitecore MVPs receive exclusive invitations to MVP discussion forums, regional meetings, and the MVP Summit. Recipients also gain access to early product releases, discussions with Sitecore product teams, and exclusive invitations to webinars. Fast-facts about Sitecore's 2024 MVP honorees: One in five honorees named first-time Sitecore MVP Sitecore MVPs span 26 countries and more than 90 companies Top MVP representation is in the U.S., India , U.K., Australia and the Netherlands , U.K., and Montenegro is represented on the MVP coverage list for the first time is represented on the MVP coverage list for the first time Designations include: 69 Ambassador MVPs, 31 Strategy MVPs, and 147 Technology MVPs 5% of MVP winners work directly for Sitecore's customers while 7% are freelance professionals Upcoming key events for the Sitecore Community include Sitecore Hackathon 2024, March 12; and the Sitecore User Group Conference (SUGCON) Europe, April 11-12 in Dublin, Ireland, among other events throughout the year. To learn more and to see the complete list of 2024 Sitecore MVPs, program details, and activities, visit mvp.sitecore.com. About Sitecore Sitecore is a global leader of end-to-end digital experience software. Unifying data, content, commerce, and experiences, our SaaS-enabled, composable platform empowers brands like L'Oreal, Microsoft and United Airlines to deliver unforgettable interactions across every touchpoint. Our solution provides the cutting-edge tools brands need to build stronger connections with customers, while creating content efficiencies to stand out as transformation and innovation leaders. Experience more at sitecore.com. Sitecore is a registered trademark of Sitecore Corporation A/S in the USA and other countries. All other brand names, product names or trademarks belong to their respective holders. Contact: Ryan Levitt VP of Communications [email protected] SOURCE Sitecore Third-party-verified III-Nitride transistors, fabricated on 4-inch wafers produced at IQE, are moving towards commercial production with standard foundry processes. ITHACA, N.Y., Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Soctera, a developer of III-nitride power amplifiers, has demonstrated high-electron-mobility transistors (HEMTs) exhibiting a peak surface temperature rise of just 59 C while dissipating 10.4 W/mm. Typical gallium nitride (GaN) HEMTs reach the standard operating temperature limit of 225 C when dissipating approximately 5 W/mm. This dramatic improvement in thermal performance could substantially reduce thermal solution costs, enhance reliability, and increase peak power output in next-generation telecommunications (5G and beyond) and defense radar arrays. "Reduced heat buildup redefines what is possible for the high-performance communications industry," said Soctera CEO Austin Hickman. "We are delighted with these third-party results and are working now to quickly scale our technology via commercial production methods." Built on a thermally-optimized III-nitride material stack fully compatible with standard GaN foundry processes, Soctera's HEMTs use 20x less gallium per device, which insulates Soctera's products from supply chain disruptions or price increases arising from potential future restrictions of gallium supply from China. The HEMTs were fabricated at the Cornell Nanoscale Facility and the surface temperature profile was measured with sub-micron resolution via thermoreflectance by Microsanj, LLC. The 4-inch wafers used in the tests were produced by IQE, a leading global epitaxy manufacturer with whom Soctera has partnered for commercial-scale development. Towards building out end-to-end commercial manufacturing, Soctera has started HEMT fabrication with a DoD-approved GaN foundry. Soctera's technology maturation efforts were recently bolstered with $750,000 in non-dilutive funding awarded by the Defense Business Accelerator pitch competition. About Soctera Soctera develops thermally-optimized, mm-wave power amplifiers to enable tomorrow's communication systems. The technology is licensed to Soctera by Cornell University, where it was initially developed at the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering. Soctera is based in Ithaca, New York. Please visit www.soctera.com for more information. Media Inquiries Otto Pohl Core Communications LLC [email protected] SOURCE Soctera, Inc. The relocation trend in key industrial sectors driven by ongoing geopolitical issues and the Thai Government's aggressive investment promotion policy accelerated a huge growth of Thailand's FDI to 18.9 billion dollars, representing a 72% increase in the FDI value compared to 2022. "Thailand's potential and readiness, together with the new 5-year investment promotion strategy and measures, have attracted large investment by companies seeking to relocate to a safe and resilient long-term base for their investments. Moreover, the fact that the Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, himself, led several investment promotion roadshows, has significantly raised investors' confidence and put Thailand on the radars of key investment communities." Mr. Narit Therdsteerasukdi, Secretary General of the BOI, told reporters at a press conference held after a Board meeting at Government House in Bangkok. "Looking forward to 2024, it is predicted that the Thai economy will expand, supported by the expansion of exports and tourism revenue. We also believe investments are likely to grow due to the continued flow of FDI, especially in our priority sectors." The Board meeting, chaired by H.E. Mr. Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the BOI, also approved four investment promotion applications worth a combined 848 million dollars for projects comprising two data centers, the production of steel wire for the tire industry, and the production of steam for industrial use. 2023 Investment Pledges up 43% The total number of applications for investment promotion filed last year by investors, both local and foreign, increased 16% to 2,307 projects, worth a combined 24 billion dollars investment, up 43% from a revised 16.9 billion dollars in 2022. The rise in total value reflects the growing number of large projects, mostly from overseas. The five priority sectors defined by the new strategy the BOI enacted last year, namely BCG (Bio-Circular-Green), electric vehicles (EV), smart electronics, digital and creative, together attracted 759 applications, worth a combined 14 billion dollars of investment, or 58% of the total value of investment pledges. FDI Applications The year 2023 saw foreign investors file a total of 1,394 applications for investment promotion, an increase of 38% from the previous year, and an increase of 72% in combined investment value to 18.9 billion dollars, due to a significant number of large projects. Like in the previous year, investment applications from the People's Republic of China came first in the ranking of FDI sources by investment value, with 430 projects worth a combined investment of 7.4 billion dollars, or 24% of the total value of FDI applications in the period, boosted by Chinese investments in the electronics industry, and the automotive supply chain, including EV. Singapore came in second with 194 projects worth a combined 3.5 billion dollars of investment, boosted by large projects applications from Singapore-based affiliates of international companies in sectors including solar cells and electronics. Investments from the U.S. ranked third with 40 projects worth a combined 2.3 billion dollars. Japan came in fourth with 264 projects representing a combined value of 2.2 billion dollars, a 60% increase from the previous year. Taiwan ranked in fifth position with 1.5 billion dollars from a total of 94 projects. In terms of the regional distribution of investment, the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), Thailand's prime industrial area comprising Chonburi, Rayong, and Chachoengsao provinces, again led the ranking with 13.1 billion dollars' worth of investment, accounting for 54% of the total pledges. It was followed by the country's central region which attracted around 7.4 billion dollars' worth of investment, or 31% of the total. Project Approvals The investment applications approved by the board include the following projects: NextDC, a leading Australian data center operator, received approval for a 393 million dollars investment in a new hyperscale data center which will be located in Bangkok . investment in a new hyperscale data center which will be located in . CtrlS Datacentres ( Thailand ) Co., Ltd., a unit of CtrlS Datacenters LTD, a global data center operator based in India , received approval for a 144 million dollars investment in a new hyperscale data center which will be located in the Digital Industry and Innovation Promotion Zone (EECd) in Chonburi province. ) Co., Ltd., a unit of CtrlS Datacenters LTD, a global data center operator based in , received approval for a investment in a new hyperscale data center which will be located in the Digital Industry and Innovation Promotion Zone (EECd) in Chonburi province. Xingda Steel Cord ( Thailand ) Co., Ltd. received approval for a 190 million dollars investment in a new factory to produce steel cord, bead wire and steel wire mainly for use in the manufacturing of tires, with an annual production capacity of 260,000 tons. The plant, which will be located in Chonburi province, is expected to export 50% of its output, and will further strengthen Thailand's automotive sector supply chain. ) Co., Ltd. received approval for a investment in a new factory to produce steel cord, bead wire and steel wire mainly for use in the manufacturing of tires, with an annual production capacity of 260,000 tons. The plant, which will be located in Chonburi province, is expected to export 50% of its output, and will further strengthen automotive sector supply chain. TPI Polene Power PCL received approval for a 121 million dollars investment in the production of steam for distribution to power and cement production plants. The facility, to be located in Saraburi province, will have a production capacity of 480 tons of steam per hour, and will run on power generated from waste (refuse-derived fuel, or RDF). * 1 USD is approximately equal to 35 THB. ABOUT THAILAND BOARD OF INVESTMENT LOS ANGELES OFFICE Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) is a government agency under the Office of the Prime Minister. Our roles and responsibilities are promoting and facilitating foreign direct investment (FDI) into Thailand. We are the professional contact point for companies, providing them with useful investment information, business support, and investment incentives including tax and non-tax incentives. BOI Los Angeles office's area of responsibility includes the West Coast U.S. and Mexico. Our services are free of charge and customized to help foreign businesses succeed in Thailand. For more information, please visit www.boi.go.th SOURCE Thailand Board of Investment FLORHAM PARK, N.J., Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Money Store has announced that Coleen Bogle has joined the mortgage lender as its Chief Marketing Officer. Bogle has more than 15 years of experience leading marketing departments in the home financing industry, and in her new role, she will focus on enhancing the brand, expanding marketing services and attracting top-tier mortgage origination talent to the organization. Mortgage marketing leader Coleen Bogle recently joined The Money Store as its Chief Marketing Officer. "It's an honor to step into this important role at The Money Store," said Bogle. "During this challenging period for our industry, I'm delighted to be joining a right-sized company that shares my commitment to service and values. I look forward to leveraging their nimble lending model, stellar reputation and supportive culture to further elevate the brand and provide unparalleled marketing support to their mortgage originators." Prior to joining The Money Store, Bogle served as the Chief Marketing Officer at Draper and Kramer Mortgage Corp. for over eight years. Under her leadership, the firm's annual loan volume expanded from $1 billion to a peak of $9 billion. Bogle's responsibilities included directing nationwide marketing strategies, overseeing the marketing department and contributing to recruitment, compliance, event coordination, vendor relations, employee engagement and strategic planning. "Coleen's appointment marks a significant milestone for The Money Store, underscoring our commitment to fostering growth and innovation," said Peter Alvarez, Chief Operations Officer at The Money Store. "Her proven track record of driving progress and expanding production for lenders aligns seamlessly with our vision. We are thrilled to welcome her aboard, and we are confident that her passion and expertise will propel us to new heights." MLD Mortgage, dba The Money Store, is a leading mortgage lending institution dedicated to providing personalized financial solutions and exceptional service to clients from coast to coast. About The Money Store: The Money Store is a direct mortgage lender headquartered in Florham Park, New Jersey, and is licensed in 47 states. The company offers a wide range of mortgage programs to meet the needs of homebuyers and homeowners while also providing low rates and superior customer service. The Money Store's online-based service model includes a secure application process that tracks every step from inquiry to closing. Visit them online at www.themoneystore.com. For media inquiries, please contact: Peter Alvarez ([email protected]) or call (973) 295-3511. SOURCE The Money Store ***Note: ADM Reports EPS tonight. Personally, I avoid shorting stocks in a bull market that are reporting earnings so that I can avoid binary event risk.*** Company Overview Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell) stock Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) is a global food processing and commodities trading company that operates in various segments such as agriculture, nutrition, and transportation. The company is involved in sourcing, processing, and distributing agricultural products, including grains, oilseeds, and other raw materials. ADMs diverse business encompasses food ingredients, animal feeds, biofuels, and industrial products. Accounting Investigation is a Potential Red Flag On January 22nd, shares of Archer Daniels Midland cratered nearly 25% after news broke that the US Attorneys Office in Manhattan had launched an investigation into the accounting practices at Archer Daniels Midlands nutrition segment. Zacks Investment Research Image Source: TradingView The CFO of the company has already been placed on leave and has preemptively lowered earnings guidance. Though the investigation is ongoing, the CFO leave news doesnt pass the smell test. Furthermore, investors must ask themselves, With thousands of stocks to invest in, why should I invest in a company under investigation for its accounting practices? Are Americans Waking up to the Dangers of Seed Oils? Seed oils, such as soybean oil, corn oil, and sunflower oil, have been criticized for several reasons regarding their adverse impact on health. These seed oils have an imbalance between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids that can contribute to inflammation. Inflammation is linked to various chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain inflammatory conditions. Furthermore, the plant-based protein (or meat alternative) craze appears to be nearing its end. ADM has seen persistently lower demand for its plant-based products. Beyond Meat (BYND), a pure play on the plant-based industry, is down by more than 64%, proving that this macro industry downtrend may have legs and may never recover. Story continues Sales and EPS Growth Rates are Expected to Slow Competition is heating up in several of ADMs main segments from companies like Swiss-based Bunge Global (BG) and Cargill. As a result, Zacks Consensus Estimates suggest that ADM will suffer negative earnings and sales growth in 2024. Zacks Investment Research Image Source: Zacks Investment Research Chronic Relative Underperformance On Wall Street, the only scoreboard that counts is price performance. Beyond ADMs many fundamental issues, the company does not perform much better from this perspective. Over the past year, shares have lagged the S&P 500 Indexs 20.8% gain and lost 34.6%. Zacks Investment Research Image Source: Zacks Investment Research For investors, few feelings are worse than investing in a chronically underperforming stock. Until ADM exhibits some semblance of a trend reversal, investors should avoid shares. 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 Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM) : Free Stock Analysis Report Bunge Global SA (BG) : Free Stock Analysis Report Beyond Meat, Inc. (BYND) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research The increase in demand for frozen food products, the rise in global trade of perishable products, especially in emerging economies, and the growth in trend of e-commerce have led to increased demand for last-mile delivery services which is driving the growth of the global truck refrigeration unit market. WILMINGTON, Del., Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Truck Refrigeration Unit Market by Type (Roof Mount and Split), Trailer Size (Below 20ft, 20-40ft, and Above 40ft), and End-User (Food, Pharmaceutical, Chemical Industry, and Others): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032". According to the report, the global truck refrigeration unit industry size generated $12,682.3 million in 2022 and is estimated to reach $22,997.7 million by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.3% from 2023 to 2032. (We are providing truck refrigeration unit industry report as per your research requirement, including the Latest Industry Insight's Evolution, Potential and Russia-Ukraine War Impact Analysis) 137 - Tables 43 - Charts 287 Pages Download Sample Report and Table of Content - https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/5617 Prime Determinants of Growth The increasing demand for transporting perishable goods, such as food and pharmaceuticals, has been a significant driver. As global trade continues to surge, the need for reliable and efficient refrigeration solutions to maintain the integrity of temperature-sensitive products during transportation becomes paramount. In addition, stringent regulations and quality standards imposed by various governing bodies amplify the requirement for advanced refrigeration units that comply with these specifications. Technological advancements in truck refrigeration units, including the integration of smart and sustainable features, further fuel market growth. The rising awareness of environmental concerns and the pursuit of greener alternatives in the logistics industry contribute to the demand for energy-efficient and eco-friendly refrigeration solutions. Moreover, the expansion of cold chain logistics and the continuous growth of e-commerce, especially in the food and pharmaceutical sectors, play a pivotal role in propelling the truck refrigeration unit market forward. Report Coverage and Details: Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 20232032 Base Year 2022 Market Size In 2022 $12,682.3 Million Market Size In 2032 $22,997.7 Million CAGR 6.3 % No. Of Pages in Report 360 Segments Covered Type, Trailer Size, And End-User Drivers Increase In Demand for Advanced Temperature Control and Monitoring System In Trucks Growth Of the Processed Food Sector and Focus on Reducing Food Waste Opportunities Development Of Eco-Friendly Refrigerants Restraints Environmental Effects of Refrigerants Used Russia-Ukraine War Impact Analysis The conflict has implications for the agricultural sector, as both Russia and Ukraine are major exporters of wheat and other commodities. The disruption in agricultural production and supply chains can lead to fluctuations in food prices on the global market, impacting both consumers and businesses. and are major exporters of wheat and other commodities. The disruption in agricultural production and supply chains can lead to fluctuations in food prices on the global market, impacting both consumers and businesses. The conflict also raises concerns about the potential for cyberattacks and disruptions to critical infrastructure. Businesses may need to reassess their cybersecurity measures and investment strategies to mitigate potential risks associated with geopolitical tensions. The split segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period Based on type, the split segment held the highest market share in 2022 and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period 2023 to 2032. Due to the split-type configuration, with separate units for the refrigeration and engine components, the segment offers flexibility and ease of installation, making it a preferred choice for many truck operators. However, the roof mount segment is projected for highest CAGR of 7.1% from 2023 to 2032, due to roof mount units, being installed on the roof of the truck or trailer, optimizing the use of available space within the vehicle, allowing for greater cargo capacity and flexibility. The below 20ft segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period Based on trailer size, the below 20ft segment held the highest market share in 2022 and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period 2023 to 2032. Due to the increasing demand for last-mile delivery services, particularly in urban areas, this segment is fueling the need for compact and maneuverable refrigerated trailers that can efficiently navigate through congested spaces. However, the 20-40ft segment is projected for highest CAGR of 7.2% from 2023 to 2032, due the continuous technological advancements in truck refrigeration units, including innovations such as smart monitoring systems and energy-efficient technologies, contributing to the appeal of the 20-40ft trailer size segment. Interested to Procure the Research Report? Inquire Before Buying - https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/purchase-enquiry/5617 The food segment to maintain its lead position during the forecast period Based on end-users, the food segment accounted for the largest share in 2022 and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period. Due to the increasing globalization of the food supply chain, there is a growing need for advanced truck refrigeration units that can maintain precise temperature control during transit. However, the pharmaceutical segment is projected to have the highest CAGR of 7.1% from 2023 to 2032, due to increasing global demand for pharmaceuticals, including vaccines, biologics, and temperature-sensitive medications, necessitating a reliable and precise cold chain logistics system. Truck refrigeration units, equipped with advanced temperature monitoring and control features, have become indispensable for pharmaceutical companies striving to meet these regulatory standards. Asia-Pacific to maintain its dominance by 2032 Based on region, Asia-Pacific held the highest market share in terms of revenue in 2022 and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period, owing to the expanding cold chain logistics sector, propelled by the increasing demand for temperature-sensitive goods, such as fresh produce, pharmaceuticals, and processed foods, which plays a pivotal role. However, the Europe region is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 7.2% from 2023 to 2032. Due to the region's strategic location and the increasing consumer preference for online shopping and the transportation of temperature-sensitive goods, there is a heightened requirement for sophisticated refrigeration units that ensure the safe and compliant delivery of products which plays a pivotal role in the growth of the truck refrigeration unit industry in the region. Key Highlights of the Truck Refrigeration Unit Market Report: In-depth study spanning 14 countries with regional and segment analysis, projecting values ($million) from 2023 to 2032. Integration of high-quality data, expert opinions, and critical independent perspectives for a comprehensive market understanding. Research methodology designed to offer a balanced view of global markets, empowering stakeholders to make informed decisions for ambitious growth goals. Extensive review of 3,700+ product literature, annual reports, industry statements, and materials from major industry participants for enhanced insights. Procure Complete Research Report (PDF with Qualitative and Quotative Data, Insights, Statistics, Tables, Charts, Figures) - https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/truck-refrigeration-unit-market/purchase-options Leading Market Players: - Advanced Temperature Control Carrier Daikin Denso Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Klinge Corporation Subros Thermo King Utility Trailer Manufacturing Company Webasto Group The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players in the global truck refrigeration unit market. These players have adopted different strategies such as new product launches, collaborations, expansion, joint ventures, agreements, and others to increase their market share and maintain dominant shares in different regions. The report is valuable in highlighting business performance, operating segments, product portfolio, and strategic moves of market players to showcase the competitive scenario. Similar Reports We Have on Automotive Industry: Automotive HVAC System Market Research Report 2023-2032 Heavy Commercial Vehicle HVAC Market Research Report 2023-2032 Bus HVAC Market Research Report 2023-2032 Asia-Pacific Trucks and Trailer HVAC Market Research Report 2023-2032 Asia-Pacific Bus HVAC Market Research Report 2023-2032 About Us Allied Market Research (AMR) is a full-service market research and business-consulting wing of Allied Analytics LLP based in Portland, Oregon. Allied Market Research provides global enterprises as well as medium and small businesses with unmatched quality of "Market Research Reports" and "Business Intelligence Solutions." AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domain. We are in professional corporate relations with various companies and this helps us in digging out market data that helps us generate accurate research data tables and confirms utmost accuracy in our market forecasting. Allied Market Research CEO Pawan Kumar is instrumental in inspiring and encouraging everyone associated with the company to maintain high quality of data and help clients in every way possible to achieve success. Each and every data presented in the reports published by us is extracted through primary interviews with top officials from leading companies of domain concerned. Our secondary data procurement methodology includes deep online and offline research and discussion with knowledgeable professionals and analysts in the industry. Contact: David Correa 1209 Orange Street, Corporation Trust Center, Wilmington, New Castle, Delaware 19801 USA. USA/Canada (Toll Free): +1-800-792-5285 UK: +44-845-528-1300 Hong Kong: +852-301-84916 India (Pune): +91-20-66346060 Fax: +1-800-792-5285 [email protected] Web: www.alliedmarketresearch.com AMR Resource Center: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/resource-center Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/636519/Allied_Market_Research_Logo.jpg SOURCE Allied Market Research WASHINGTON, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the United States Commission on Civil Rights (Commission) takes a significant step towards increasing accessibility for the Asian American community by releasing translated materials for its 2023 statutory enforcement report. The report, "The Federal Response to Anti-Asian Racism in the United States" provides comprehensive insights on the rise of anti-Asian hate crimes from 2019 through 2021 and the federal role in preventing and enforcing federal hate crime laws. The report's press release, letter of transmittal, and executive summary are now available in the top five Asian languages spoken at home in the U.S. according to the 2019 Census. These translated materials include Mandarin (Chinese Simplified), Cantonese (Chinese Traditional), and Vietnamese versions of the press release, letter of transmittal, and executive summary. Language accessibility is critical for communicating with impacted communities. - USCCR Chair, Rochelle M. Garza Post this According to Commission Chair, Rochelle Mercedes Garza, "Language accessibility is critical for communicating with impacted communities. We know that language barriers prevent the reporting of hate crimes or incidents, such as racial slurs or being spat on. The translation of these materials shows the Commission's commitment to increasing accessibility for the Asian American community." Additionally, the report's key recommendation aligns with the Commission's release on November 15, 2023, of an updated federal agency language access plan, coinciding with the one-year anniversary of Attorney General Merrick B. Garland's language access memorandum to federal agencies. The updated language access plan showcases the Commission's dedication to providing more reports and agency events with appropriate language access through translation and interpretation services. The U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, established by the Civil Rights Act of 1957, is the only independent, bipartisan agency charged with advising the President and Congress on civil rights and reporting annually on federal civil rights enforcement. Our 56 state Advisory Committees offer a broad perspective on civil rights concerns at state and local levels. The Commission: in our 7th decade, a continuing legacy of influence in civil rights. For information about the Commission, please visit www.usccr.gov and on Twitter and Facebook. Contact: Angelia Rorison [email protected] SOURCE U.S. Commission on Civil Rights Leonard and Pamela Schaeffer's $59 million gift to establish a new institute will address multiple public policy issues with evidence-based research and train generations of new scholars LOS ANGELES, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- USC, together with Leonard and his late wife Pamela Schaeffer, is launching a new institute to be anchored in Los Angeles and in the university's new Capital Campus in Washington, D.C. The mission of the Leonard D. Schaeffer Institute for Public Policy & Government Service is to strengthen democracy by training generations of public leaders and advancing evidence-based research to shape policy that addresses the nation's most pressing issues, USC President Carol Folt announced today. Full story on USC Today USC Capital Campus opening event on April 20, 2023. (Photo/Daniel Swartz) By combining and expanding two outstanding programs the USC Schaeffer Center for Health Policy & Economics and the Leonard D. Schaeffer Fellows in Government Service USC's new institute will be able to significantly increase their scope, size and impact. "The newly formed Schaeffer Institute accelerates USC's capacity to develop effective academic leaders and to forge critical high-impact partnerships with influential policymakers and organizations," Folt said. "There are times in the life of a university when a vision and an opportunity align to become a powerful force to serve the public good." Folt continued, "And our students and our nation need this now more than ever." The institute is the first major research and education facility to be headquartered at USC's Capital Campus, which Folt opened in Dupont Circle last spring. Schaeffer said the new institute has the potential to have a long-lasting impact at a time when the United States needs it most. "Our country is experiencing a series of challenges that are unique in our history," he said. "We are facing many difficult issues around the world climate change, pandemics, violent conflicts in Europe and the Middle East, and world trade and economic problems, to name a few. Here at home, we are experiencing the loss of faith in science and government. The institute will have the faculty, students and postdocs to provide the analysis and facts necessary to counter erosion in public discourse and promote more effective policy solutions." The Institute in Washington, D.C. The institute will create research programs built on the model developed by the Schaeffer Center in which scholars engage public- and private-sector leaders to advance policy solutions based on evidence-based research. The Schaeffer Center is ranked among the foremost organizations of its kind. The gift will fund the build-out of the seventh floor of the Capital Campus, which will be dedicated to the Schaeffer Institute. The institute also will have offices on the USC University Park Campus. Public policy training The Schaeffers' gift also will provide a permanent endowment for the Leonard D. Schaeffer Fellows in Government Service, the fellowship for undergraduate students to work in local, state and federal government offices. The fellowships, which are administered by USC, are open to students across USC as well as those at four other participating universities: Harvard University; Princeton University; University of California, Berkeley; and the University of Virginia. The gift will allow at least 50 students from across the five universities to participate in the fellowship every year. "The Schaeffer Institute will be an invaluable resource for education and scholarship, not just for Schaeffer scholars and its affiliated experts but for faculty members and students from across USC," said Dana Goldman, dean of the USC Sol Price School and co-director of the USC Schaeffer Center. "Their ability to use our Capital Campus office to more easily engage with policymakers will give them far more impact." The Schaeffer Institute will be based in the Office of the Provost. Goldman will become the director of the Schaeffer Institute and will remain the co-director of the Schaeffer Center with Erin Trish, associate professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical and Health Economics at USC Mann School. Goldman will step down as dean of USC Price School on July 1, 2024, when the institute is scheduled to open. An interim dean will lead the school while the university conducts a national search for a new dean for the USC Price School. Erica Lovano McCann, who currently serves as USC's assistant vice provost for undergraduate education, will become the full-time executive director of the expanded Schaeffer Fellows in Government Service program. The Shaeffers' legacy The gift for the institute is the Schaeffers' single largest to the university. The couple founded several chaired professorships, including the Leonard D. Schaeffer Fellows in Government Service. A gift in 2009 enabled the university to create the namesake USC Leonard D. Schaeffer Center for Health Policy & Economics. Leonard Schaeffer is one of the most accomplished leaders in American health care, with a career that spans the private, public and philanthropic sectors. He was the founding chairman and CEO of WellPoint, the nation's largest health benefits company by membership, as well as the administrator of the federal Health Care Financing Administration (now the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services). He has served on the boards of numerous business, philanthropic and professional organizations. Schaeffer was awarded an honorary degree from USC and received the inaugural USC Sol Price Award for his lifetime achievements as a business leader, policy expert and philanthropist. He is a USC trustee and chair of the Schaeffer Center's Board of Advisers. He also is a member of the USC Price School's Board of Councilors. Available for interviews: USC President Carol Folt President Dana Goldman Contact: Emily Gersema at (213) 712-3168 or [email protected], or Lance Ignon at (415) 793-8851 or [email protected] SOURCE University of Southern California LOS ANGELES, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Hold onto your chopsticks, Los Angeles! Get ready for an explosion of flavor as Niku Nashi, hailed as the undisputed champion of Vegan Sushi by Angelino magazine, returns to the city's culinary scene today with a triumphant comeback. Having bid farewell to its iconic location inside APB at the end of December, Niku Nashi left a void in the hearts of food enthusiasts across the city. Niku Nashi is back, and it's here to redefine the at home or office vegan dining experience. Now available exclusively for delivery through Uber Eats, Postmates, Grub Hub and DoorDash, Niku Nashi's plant-based menu is within reach once again. From Tuesday to Sunday, indulge in a symphony of flavors meticulously crafted from their kitchen in the heart of trendy Melrose Avenue, from 11:30 AM to 9 PM. Partnering with Ole Tsoy, the former sous chef at Niku Nashi who recently opened her Barcelona sushi sensation Kakkoi Sushi in LA, Niku Nashi promises an unparalleled experience. Last October, Niku Nashi co-hosted a fundraiser with APB in support of Support + Feed, with Grammy award winner Billie Eilish, in attendance. It's moments like these that showcase Niku Nashi's dedication to making a positive impact beyond the dining table. Exclusively in Postmates, Uber Eats, Grub Hub and Door Dash, search for "Kakkoi Sushi," and view the Niku Nashi Vegan Sushi menu. With the kitchen team eager to get back to work, Super Bowl Sunday is destined to be an extravaganza of taste and excitement! For media inquiries or further information, please contact: Brad Saltzman Kakkoi Sushi LLC [email protected] 323-844-0096 SOURCE Kakkoi Sushi LLC Aria is defining new standards of safety & convenience at just under 6 lbs. ROCKLAND, Mass., Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- UPPAbaby delivers the next generation in safety, innovation, and enhanced comfort in the new year with the launch of their first-ever lightweight infant car seat, Aria the lightest on the market at just 5.9 lbs. With its featherweight construction, the Aria was designed to redefine standards of portability and convenience for mobile parents who are always on the go and looking for the lightest option on the market. UPPAbaby is also releasing an updated version of the high back booster seat, Alta V2. UPPAbaby Aria Infant Car Seat Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/9185751-uppababy-aria-lightest-infant-car-seat/ New and expecting parents researching the ideal infant car seat for their active lifestyle should look no further than Aria. Its strong yet lightweight build, coupled with SmartSecure technology, Anti-Rebound+ Panel, and extra-large extended canopy provides a safe and comfortable ride for baby while offering unparalleled ease for parents. From taking ride-shares to driving through the burbs, Aria offers the best of both worlds with or without the base. The latest and lightest addition to the UPPAbaby car seat family includes innovative features such as: Lightest on the market weighing in at just under 6 lbs. weighing in at just under 6 lbs. Featherlight shell with EPP foam and ergonomic aluminum carry handle designed for added stability and optimum portability designed for added stability and optimum portability No-Rethread 5-point Harness for hassle-free adjustment as baby grows for hassle-free adjustment as baby grows Adjustable headrest for a more accurate and customized fit as baby grows for a more accurate and customized fit as baby grows Included load leg base for additional stability and energy absorption for additional stability and energy absorption Extra-large canopy with back panel ventilation and pop out extended sunshade with back panel ventilation and pop out extended sunshade DualTech fabric and foams are fire retardant free fabric and foams are fire retardant free GREENGUARD Gold Certified to support healthier air quality and low chemical emissions to support healthier air quality and low chemical emissions Direct attachment for Vista and Cruz strollers + convenient adapters available for the Minu and Ridge Aria will be available in four DualKnit fashions from our CleanTech collection, including Anthony (grey with chestnut leather handle), Greyson (charcoal melange with saddle leather handle), Gwen (green with saddle leather handle) and Jake (charcoal with black leather handle) and will retail for $349.99. Both the foam and DualKnit fabric are fire-retardant-free. Aria passed the latest frontal and side impact protection** testing that sets forth new performance requirements for child restraints systems. ** FMVSS 213a & 213b Veteran parents with energetic elementary school kids and independent pre-teens will appreciate the enhanced, premium Alta V2 High Back Booster Seat. The Alta V2 was designed to deliver style, comfort, and ease of installation for busy parents, while also providing enhanced safety features and protection for growing children. Alta V2 updated features will include: Simple SecureFit Belt Routing System to ensure proper vehicle belt fit ensure proper vehicle belt fit Seven-position, Active Support Headrest for growing children for growing children Side Impact Protection Pods that absorb and disperse crash forces that absorb and disperse crash forces Removable, dishwasher safe included cup holder included cup holder Ergonomic dual armrests engineered for enhanced interaction and arm support engineered for enhanced interaction and arm support SafeTech fabric is fire-retardant-free fabric is fire-retardant-free GREENGUARD Gold Certified to support healthier air quality and low chemical emissions The Alta V2 will be available in four SafeTech fashions from our CleanTech collection including Jake (black melange), Greyson (grey melange), Iris (grey melange and lavender accent) and Kavneer (almond melange) and will retail for $179.99. Consumers interested in learning more and purchasing the Aria infant car seat or Alta V2 High Back Booster Seat can visit uppababy.com or head to one of the four Hub Service Center & Showroom locations in Boston, MA, Brooklyn, NY, Santa Monica, CA or Toronto, Ontario. Both car seats will be available for purchase in March 2024 in the US and April 2024 in Canada. For more information, visit www.uppababy.com and follow UPPAbaby on LinkedIn (UPPAbaby), Instagram (@uppababy), and Facebook (@UPPAbaby). To Stay in The Know for all product and company updates, sign up for the UPPAbaby newsletter at: https://uppababy.com/intheknow/. About UPPAbaby UPPAbaby is a global company with small-town roots committed to improving the lives of parents by building the smartest juvenile gear available. Our products are intuitively designed and expertly crafted, with features parents rely on. Drawing on three decades of experience, UPPAbaby was founded in 2006 to create products that make life with kids more manageable, more fashionable, and even more fun. SOURCE UPPAbaby Smoking cigarettes has become increasingly unpopular since the public learned about the many health hazards of the habit decades ago. Yet, the tobacco industry has remained relevant, though it has boiled down to a small handful of large players. Two of those companies, Altria Group (NYSE: MO) and British American Tobacco (NYSE: BTI), have become famous dividend stocks. Both stocks offer juicy yields of over 9%. While they may look like similar companies and pay comparable dividends, investors should pick carefully between the two. It turns out one is a far better buy today. Introducing our contestants Altria Group Altria, formerly Philip Morris Companies, is the original owner of the Marlboro cigarette brand, which it sells throughout the United States. The company was global until it spun off its international operations as Philip Morris International in 2008. Marlboro cigarettes are the leading brand in America, with an estimated 42% of the market. Additionally, Altria sells Black & Mild tipped cigars (a leading brand), Copenhagen chewing tobacco (another leading brand), smokeless products in On! oral nicotine pouches, and NJOY heat-not-burn tobacco devices. It also owns 10% of Anheuser-Busch, a stake worth over $12 billion. British American Tobacco British American Tobacco (BAT) doesn't have a headlining brand as big as Marlboro, but it's a well-diversified company both in product and geography. BAT sells several cigarette brands worldwide and owns niche brands like the menthol brand Newport, which is specific to the U.S. market. It owns the Grizzly chewing tobacco brand and is heavily into smokeless products, including Vuse electronic cigarettes, Velo oral nicotine pouches, and Glo heat-not-burn. Collectively, both companies dominate much of the global nicotine market, with Philip Morris International the remaining player. Two fantastic high-yield stocks Tobacco companies are all shifting to smokeless products, but it's a very slow transition from cigarettes. The decline of smoking is a constant headwind that prevents these companies from growing very fast. Being very profitable but having little growth means that the generous dividends tobacco stocks pay are the primary reason most people own them. Story continues Very high dividend yields are often a red flag for dividend investors, but as you can see below, each company's dividend payout ratio is very manageable. BAT spends just half its cash flow on dividends versus 80% for Altria. Altria's is higher, but remember that it has that $12 billion stake in Anheuser-Busch, which it can cash in at any time. MO Cash Dividend Payout Ratio Chart Investors looking for steady dividend raises can look at Altria, which has raised its dividend for over 50 consecutive years, making it a Dividend King. European companies like British American Tobacco often don't grow their payouts in a straight line, though the dividend has grown higher over time. These stocks both have well-funded payouts with similar yields, so the winner here may depend on your preference. Is one a better bargain? These are very mature companies with similar business models, so investors can comfortably use the price-to-earnings ratio to see which is a better bargain today. Using 2024 estimates, Altria trades at 8.2 times earnings, while BAT trades at 6.4 times. Both are mid-single-digit, but Altria is getting a hefty 28% premium to BAT. MO PE Ratio (Forward) Chart Is that warranted? Consensus analyst estimates for the long-term earnings growth call for Altria to grow at an annualized average of 4%, compared to 5% for British American Tobacco. Without speculating too much, it could be that investors are more familiar with Altria as a U.S. company and are willing to pay more for the stock. But if each company performs to expectations, it's clear that British American Tobacco is the better deal today. Investors can pay a lower valuation and get better growth in return. Here is where one stands out As I said above, the industry is migrating to smokeless nicotine products as the future. Altria initially tied itself to electronic cigarette company Juul, paying $13 billion for a 35% stake. That investment went up in smoke after regulators cracked down on Juul for marketing to minors. Altria has since leaned into growing its oral nicotine pouches and acquired rights to NJOY, a heat-not-burn device, for $250 million. However, smokeable products were still 89% of Altria's business last year. British American Tobacco is much further along. It sells products in all three major smokeless categories: Electronic cigarettes, oral nicotine pouches, and heat-not-burn devices. These products are already generating over 30% of BAT's revenue in 23 markets, and management is targeting a 50% revenue contribution companywide by 2035. The verdict Altria is still a tremendous high-yield dividend stock and could remain that way. However, British American Tobacco's lower dividend payout ratio, cheaper valuation with higher growth prospects, and massive lead in smokeless products -- the nicotine market's future -- make it a clear winner. Should you invest $1,000 in British American Tobacco P.l.c. right now? Before you buy stock in British American Tobacco P.l.c., consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now and British American Tobacco P.l.c. wasnt one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Stock Advisor provides investors with an easy-to-follow blueprint for success, including guidance on building a portfolio, regular updates from analysts, and two new stock picks each month. The Stock Advisor service has more than tripled the return of S&P 500 since 2002*. See the 10 stocks *Stock Advisor returns as of February 5, 2024 Justin Pope has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends British American Tobacco P.l.c. and Philip Morris International and recommends the following options: long January 2026 $40 calls on British American Tobacco P.l.c. and short January 2026 $40 puts on British American Tobacco P.l.c. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Best Stock to Buy Right Now: Altria vs. British American Tobacco was originally published by The Motley Fool Dragon Oil Company, wholly owned by the Government of Dubai, will begin next December the process of exploring the first well within Block 19 in Turkmenistan, as a culmination of the MoU signed with the Turkmennebit State Concern of Turkmenistan, which included the expansion of Dragon Oils investments in the oil sector aimed at production of oil and gas from three new oil fields within Block 19 at the Turkmenistan Sector of the Caspian Sea. On the other hand, the two parties agreed, during the recent visit that led the companys delegation to Turkmenistan, to exchange technical information between the two parties. This includes information related to two wells that the company requested and will obtain within the next week, which will help to design the exploratory well, reduce costs, and other positive matters of this agreement. In line with the efforts led by Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Chairman of the Companys Board of Directors, through the World Green Economy Summit, Dragon Oil is working to implement many sustainable development projects, such as stopping gas burning, reducing emissions, and a project to plant more than 10,000 trees at the operating site in the city of Hazar and other areas. Sustainability projects that never stop, by the Sustainable Development Goals and COP28 outcomes, it stated. As a culmination of the strong relations that bring together the two countries with the support of the wise leadership of the two countries, and as an extension of the recent meeting in Dubai, the companys technical delegation visited Turkmenistan to implement the terms of the memorandum of understanding signed in Dubai in January, and this step is an embodiment of a series of meetings between the governments of the two countries, the most recent of which is the visit of Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow, Chairman of the People's Council of Turkmenistan and National Leader of the Turkmen People, and before that the meetings held with Serdar Berdimuhamedow, President of Turkmenistan, on the sidelines of the COP 28 Conference of the Parties in Dubai. Ali Rashid Al Jarwan, CEO of Dragon Oil Company, said, The first phase includes exploring carbonaceous materials in the oil and gas well, in Block 19, which has an area of 3,800 sq km, as preliminary data indicate that it contains a lot of carbonaceous materials due to their occurrence in a rich geological area. Al Jarwan said: "After exploration, we will enter the field-testing phase and aim to extract 20,000 barrels per day of oil, and if the initial explorations are positive regarding the abundance of hydrocarbon materials, we will develop an integrated plan to develop the field." "The exploration process will begin next December and continue for three months. With the examination, it will increase to four months, after which Dragon Oil will begin developing the field for the benefit of both parties," he added.-TradeArabia News Service If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here Patna, Feb 9 : Ahead of the Lok Sabha election this year, the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) Chief Asaduddin Owaisi is set for a two-day visit to the Muslim-dominated Kishanganj district in Bihar this month. His arrival would ring the alarm bells for the opposition Grand Alliance or 'Mahagathbandhan' in Bihar. Akhtarul Iman, the lone AIMIM MLA in Bihar and State party President, said that Owaisi will arrive in Kishanganj on February 16. The AIMIM Chief will stay in Kishanganj on February 17 as well and visit a number of Assembly constituencies in several places of the district to influence Muslim votes. Owaisi's led AIMIM has opted for a policy to not align with any of the Opposition INDIA bloc parties in the upcoming Lok Sabha election. AIMIM had performed well in the 2020 Bihar Assembly election and won five assembly seats but more than that it had dealt a severe blow to the Mahaghatbandhan in Seemanchal region. The AIMIM had played a role of "vote Katwa" (one who divides votes) on more than 20 Assembly seats in Kishanganj, Araria, Purnia and Katihar districts. That could be the reason why RJD-led Mahagathmandhan failed to form the government at that time. RJD however managed to break AIMIM and included four of its MLAs later on. Muslim community is a core vote bank for the RJD and Congress but AIMIM cut into their votes. The RJD and Congress leaders knew the Owaisi factor in Seemanchal region from their previous experience and if AIMIM would repeat the performance of 2020 Bihar Assembly election in 2024 Lok Sabha polls, the life of Mahagathbandhan leaders would become difficult. On the other hand, BJP always contests elections minus Muslim votes and the presence of Asaduddin Owaisi suits the leaders of saffron party as his party cuts the votes of the Mahagathbandhan. However, it would be interesting to see the approach of JD-U, which is also influencing Muslim voters. Basti : , Feb 9 (IANS) In a disturbing incident fuelled by superstition, a woman in Uttar Pradesh's Basti district on Thursday allegedly slit her infant daughter's neck with a sharp object as part of an 'occult' ritual, the police said. According to the police, the accused mother, Geeta, 33, allegedly attacked her two-month-old daughter with a sharp object, causing grievous injuries to the child. The woman's husband has claimed that she is mentally unstable. He said the injured child was rushed to a hospital by her family members where her condition is said to be stable. "The family members have informed that the woman is mentally unstable and believes in occult practices," said a police official. He said the incident is under investigation and further actions will be taken according to the family's complaint. "The matter is being investigated and further action will be taken as per complaint filed by them," the police officer said. Cases of superstitious "occult practices" are often reported from various parts of the country with children often bearing the brunt of those evil "rituals". Tension prevails in Bareilly after cleric's call for protest on Gyanvapi issue. Image Source: IANS News Bareilly, Feb 9 : Tension prevails in Bareilly after Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan, Uttar Pradesh cleric and Head of Ittehad-e-Millat Council, gave a call for 'jail bharo' movement after Friday prayers in protest against offering of prayers inside the Gyanvapi mosque, the police said. After the announcement by Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan, the police is taking precautionary measures and has made concrete arrangements to stop the proposed programme. The Islamia Maidan has been sealed, and Pradeshik Armed Constabulary as well as Rapid Action Force have also been deployed. A senior police official said, "We will make sure that people do not collect at any place on Friday. We have adequate forces to deal with the situation peacefully." The cleric's followers have distributed pamphlets and shared posts on social media that say, "The Babri mosque was snatched from us using court's decision and now they have started offering prayers in Gyanvapi mosque. Our 700-year-old mosque was razed during midnight hours." The media in-charge of the organisation has appealed to the people to reach here. Kiev, Feb 9 : A total of 100 Ukrainian service people returned home under a fresh prisoner swap with Russia, the Coordinating Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War said. Among those freed were more than 80 troops who fought for the city of Mariupol and the Azovstal steel plant, Xinhua news agency reported on Thursday. Besides, the soldiers who participated in the combat in the Donetsk and the Luhansk directions were released under the swap. At least 28 of those freed suffer from serious illnesses or have severe injuries. Ukraine and Russia have carried out 51 prisoner exchanges since March 2022. A total of 3,135 Ukrainians taken captive in the Russia-Ukraine war have been released under those exchanges. United Nations, Feb 9 : UN humanitarians have said that $6 million were allocated to help Congo respond to "catastrophic flooding" affecting two million people. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said on Thursday that the Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths made the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) allocation this week "to support the response to catastrophic floods in the Congo". The office added that since December 2023, heavy rainfall caused the Congo river to surge to its highest levels since 1961, triggering the flooding, affecting 18 out of the country's 26 provinces and more than two million people, including in the capital Kinshasa, Xinhua news agency reported. "The floods are worsening already high humanitarian needs, with significant destruction of infrastructure and a critical disruption of basic services," OCHA said. "The CERF allocation will support nearly 400,000 people in the areas of health, food security, shelter and protection, among others." The second largest country in Africa, after Algeria, Congo has been plagued by civil unrest in the eastern provinces of North Kivu, South Kivu, Ituri and Tanganyika, forcing more than seven million people to flee their homes from clashes between armed rebel groups and government troops, OCHA added. More than 25 million people in Congo need humanitarian assistance. It's shaping up to be a tough period for British American Tobacco (Malaysia) Berhad (KLSE:BAT), which a week ago released some disappointing yearly results that could have a notable impact on how the market views the stock. Results look to have been somewhat negative - revenue fell 2.7% short of analyst estimates at RM2.3b, and statutory earnings of RM0.68 per share missed forecasts by 5.0%. Earnings are an important time for investors, as they can track a company's performance, look at what the analysts are forecasting for next year, and see if there's been a change in sentiment towards the company. Readers will be glad to know we've aggregated the latest statutory forecasts to see whether the analysts have changed their mind on British American Tobacco (Malaysia) Berhad after the latest results. See our latest analysis for British American Tobacco (Malaysia) Berhad After the latest results, the four analysts covering British American Tobacco (Malaysia) Berhad are now predicting revenues of RM2.38b in 2024. If met, this would reflect a reasonable 3.0% improvement in revenue compared to the last 12 months. Per-share earnings are expected to accumulate 7.9% to RM0.74. Before this earnings report, the analysts had been forecasting revenues of RM2.40b and earnings per share (EPS) of RM0.77 in 2024. So it looks like there's been a small decline in overall sentiment after the recent results - there's been no major change to revenue estimates, but the analysts did make a small dip in their earnings per share forecasts. It might be a surprise to learn that the consensus price target fell 6.4% to RM9.02, with the analysts clearly linking lower forecast earnings to the performance of the stock price. Fixating on a single price target can be unwise though, since the consensus target is effectively the average of analyst price targets. As a result, some investors like to look at the range of estimates to see if there are any diverging opinions on the company's valuation. Currently, the most bullish analyst values British American Tobacco (Malaysia) Berhad at RM10.40 per share, while the most bearish prices it at RM7.55. Analysts definitely have varying views on the business, but the spread of estimates is not wide enough in our view to suggest that extreme outcomes could await British American Tobacco (Malaysia) Berhad shareholders. Story continues One way to get more context on these forecasts is to look at how they compare to both past performance, and how other companies in the same industry are performing. The period to the end of 2024 brings more of the same, according to the analysts, with revenue forecast to display 3.0% growth on an annualised basis. That is in line with its 3.4% annual growth over the past five years. By contrast, our data suggests that other companies (with analyst coverage) in a similar industry are forecast to see their revenues grow 7.0% per year. So it's pretty clear that British American Tobacco (Malaysia) Berhad is expected to grow slower than similar companies in the same industry. The Bottom Line The most important thing to take away is that the analysts downgraded their earnings per share estimates, showing that there has been a clear decline in sentiment following these results. On the plus side, there were no major changes to revenue estimates; although forecasts imply they will perform worse than the wider industry. Furthermore, the analysts also cut their price targets, suggesting that the latest news has led to greater pessimism about the intrinsic value of the business. Following on from that line of thought, we think that the long-term prospects of the business are much more relevant than next year's earnings. We have forecasts for British American Tobacco (Malaysia) Berhad going out to 2026, and you can see them free on our platform here. However, before you get too enthused, we've discovered 3 warning signs for British American Tobacco (Malaysia) Berhad that you should be aware of. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Geneva, Feb 9 : The widespread destruction by Israeli forces of civilian infrastructure in Gaza to create a "buffer zone" for general security purposes does not appear consistent with the narrow "military operations" exception set out in international humanitarian law, UN Human Rights Chief Volker Turk said. Volker Turk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, said on Thursday in a media statement that he has stressed to the Israeli authorities that Article 53 of the Fourth Geneva Convention prohibits destruction by the occupying power of property belonging to private persons "except where such destruction is rendered absolutely necessary by military operations". The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) are reportedly destroying all buildings in the Gaza Strip that are within a kilometre of the Israel-Gaza fence, clearing the area with the objective of creating a "buffer zone". Extensive destruction of property, not justified by military necessity and carried out unlawfully and wantonly, amounts to a grave breach of the Fourth Geneva Convention and a war crime, Turk added in the statement as quoted by Xinhua news agency report. "Since late October 2023, my office has recorded widespread destruction and demolition by the IDF of civilian and other infrastructure, including residential buildings, schools and universities in areas in which fighting is not or no longer taking place," he said. The UN rights chief added that Israel has not provided cogent reasons for such extensive destruction of civilian infrastructure. He pointed out that such destruction of homes and other essential civilian infrastructure also entrenches the displacement of communities that were living in these areas prior to the escalation in hostilities, and appears to be aimed at or has the effect of rendering the return of civilians to these areas impossible. "Forcible transfer of civilians may constitute a war crime," he stressed. Gaza, Feb 9 : The Gaza-based Health Ministry has warned that the Israeli army is endangering the lives of medical personnel, the wounded, and the displaced at the Nasser Hospital in the southern Khan Younis city. The Ministry's Spokesman Ashraf al-Qidra said on Thursday in a statement that the Nasser Hospital is facing "a health and humanitarian catastrophe as a result of the Israeli siege and targeting," mentioning that around 300 medical staff, 450 wounded people, and 10,000 displaced people inside the hospital are "at risk of being killed and starving". He added the hospital is facing a severe shortage of anesthetic drugs, intensive care units, and surgical supplies, as well as a cessation of electric generators in less than 48 hours due to a lack of fuel, Xinhua news agency reported. He accused the Israeli army of obstructing the movement of ambulance vehicles and hindering the arrival of the wounded and patients to the hospital. Palestinian Health Minister Mai al-Kaila announced on Wednesday that 340 doctors and healthcare workers in the health sector have been killed due to the ongoing Israeli war since October 7, 2023. She added during a protest organised by the Ministry and the Palestinian health sector in front of the United Nations headquarters in Ramallah that around 900 doctors and healthcare workers have been injured, while Israeli authorities have detained around 100 others. Helsinki, Feb 9 : The Finnish government has decided to keep the land border with Russia closed until mid-April, citing security concerns. All crossing points on the Finnish eastern border have been closed to passenger traffic since mid-December, Xinhua news agency reported. The country closed the first border crossings in mid-November in response to illegal immigrants. According to the Interior Ministry, undocumented immigrants into Finland have mainly been of Middle Eastern and African origin, and half of them have asked for asylum. Some of them appear to have left Finland to travel onwards to other parts of the European Union. Gorakhpur : , Feb 9 (IANS) Two police teams are busy evaluating properties belonging to former minister Amar Mani Tripathi, as per orders of a Basti court in a 23-year-old abduction case against former minister. The teams are working in Lucknow and Maharajganj for evaluation of properties. Superintendent of police (SP), Basti, Gopal Krishna confirmed that a request letter had been sent by the Basti district magistrate to SP Lucknow Commissionerate and the district magistrate of Maharajganj for cooperation in evaluation and confiscation of the former ministeras properties in the two districts. The Rahul Gupta case was registered in 2001 against seven people, including Hanuman Shukla Kaka, Ajay Mishra, Anand Singh, Ram Vilas, Jay Pratap Shivam, Naini Sharma and Amar Mani Tripathi for kidnapping a school boy in Basti who was later recovered from the residence in Lucknow belonging to the former minister. Two-and-a-half-months ago, the MP/MLA court of Basti had issued a non-bailable warrant against Tripathi for his continuing absence from appearing before the court. District and session judge, Basti, Pramod Kumar Giri had directed the district magistrate of Basti to submit his report to the court regarding all the properties belonging to Tripathi in last hearing on January 30. The district authorities have informed the Basti MP/MLA court regarding Tripathias two propertiesa"his paternal house at Nautanva town of Maharajganj and another 450 square metre flat at Vikrant Khand in Lucknow. The Basti district authorities have already got a missing notice published regarding Tripathi in various newspapers but the ex-minister is still undergoing treatment for frequent fits and disability in speaking and movement at the BRD Medical College in Gorakhpur. Tripathi along with his wife, Madhumani Tripathi, were prematurely released in life sentence in the poetess Madhumita Shukla murder case of 2003, on August 25, 2023. But they stayed on at the private ward of BRD Medical College to receive treatment and avoided appearing before the court on health grounds. Islamabad, Feb 9 : The Election Commission of Pakistan is announcing poll results for the general elections since early Friday morning, amid PTI's allegation of mass rigging. PTI Central Secretary Information Raoof Hasan has claimed that his party is leading on at least 125 National Assembly seats "by huge margins", Dawn reported. "In due course of time, we shall be in a position to form governments at the centre and at least two of the four provinces," he posted on party's X account. Meanwhile PML-N's Marriyum Aurangzeb has said that the party will form the government in the Centre and Punjab. In a post on X, she said that the results were still being received by the party's election cell. "Due to the unavailability of mobile and internet services, it became difficult to get the results," she said, adding that the party's position was "strong". PTI-backed candidates Fazal Muhammad Khan has won NA-25 Charsadda II Muhammad Abdul Salam and Sultan Room have won their seats from PK-58 Mardan and PK-9 Swat, Iftikharullah Jan has emerged victorious with 39,538 votes in PK-64 Charsadda III, PTI-backed candidate Saleem Rehman has won from Swat's NA-3 with 81,411 votes, according to the preliminary result announced by the ECP. PPP candidates Sadiq Ali Memon won from NA-225 Thatta, Nazeer Ahmed Bughio won NA-195 (Larkana), Makhdoom Jameel-uz-Zaman has won from NA-216 Matiari, Nazeer Ahmed Bughio won NA-195 (Larkana), Mehboob Ali Khan Bijarani won PS-6 Kashmore III and Ali Nawaz Khan Mahar won from PS-21, Sardar Muhammad Bakhsh Khan Mahar won the PS-20 Ghotki seat. The polling ended on Thursday at 5 p.m. after which ballot counting started but there was no clear picture on which party was leading. As political parties cried foul about delay in poll outcome and questioned the poll watchdog, the ECP directed all the provincial Election Commissioners and Returning Officers to announce the results within half an hour or else face strict action. To form the government in the country, a party needs to secure win on 133 of the 265 seats. Polling was postponed on one seat after death of a candidate. United Nations, Feb 9 : The international financial and development institutions should be reformed to reflect the interests of the Global South, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said. While the BRICS can play an important and complementary role for developing nations, he stressed that it should not contribute to a fragmentation of the world economy. The international financial institutions -- the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank -- and the Security Council that were created in the 1940s after World War II reflect "what the power relations and the global economy were at that time" but aren't relevant to today's world, he said at a news conference here on Thursday. Since they don't "correspond to the power relations and to the global economy as it is today", he said, "it will be very important for those institutions to reform in order to represent today's global economy, to be truly universal and truly inclusive". "We obviously need that those institutions reflect more obviously the interests of the Global South", he emphasised. Asked about the role of BRICS, he said that "it is important to have a multiplicity of different organisations to support developing countries" in the finance and trade sectors. "But", he added, "it is essential that (it) doesn't correspond to a fragmentation of the global economy". "One of the most important aspects that we need to preserve today is One Global Economy, One Global Market, One Global Internet and to avoid the fragmentation of that global economy", he said. "Within a united global economy, I think that many of these institutions (like BRICS) can play an extremely important and complementary role", he added. BRICS, made up originally of emerging economies Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, has expanded to include Ethiopia, Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates with membership queries from 34 countries pending. The group, which aims to foster trade and financial cooperation has created the New Development Bank to fund development projects and help financial stabilisation in the member countries, functioning in some ways like the established financial institutions. About the fitness of the Bretonwoods Institutions -- as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund are known for the venue of their founding -- to meet contemporary needs, Guterres said that besides the unrepresentative character of their power structure and orientation, they are undercapitalized and too small for the current global needs. "The truth is that they became too small", he said, pointing out that "the paid-in capital of the World Bank as a percentage of global GDP today is less than one-fifth of what it was in 1960". "So we obviously need a meaningful capitalisation of those institutions", he said. While the UN cannot reform them, Guterres said that he would like to see the United Nations Summit of the Future in September give some directions for the way those institutions "should structurally move". Assessing the global political situation, Guterres said, "We are no longer in a bipolar or unipolar world, as I said, we are in a kind of on the way to a multipolar world, but in a very chaotic situation". "Power relations became unclear and what we see today in the world is political actors doing whatever they want and with total impunity", he said. To end the multitude of conflicts and divisions and to effectively address threats posed by Artificial Intelligence, to act on climate action and to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, "a serious conversation between developed and developing countries; between rich and emerging economies; between north and south, east and west" is needed, he said. (Arul Louis can be contacted at arul.l@ians.in and followed at @arulouis) Chennai, Feb 9 : Dalit activists have taken up the case of a 37-year-old Dalit man being asphyxiated to death while cleaning a septic tank in an apartment building at Kannabiraman street in Coimbatore. Activist and leader of Dalit rights movement Meenakumari Sunil told IANS that manual scavenging is against the law. "It is against law and we will take those who engaged the man for manual scavenging to the court," Meenakumari said. Mohanasundaralingam (37) was engaged in cleaning the sewage tank of an apartment in Kannabiraman Mill road near Sowripalayam in Coimbatore on Thursday. While Mohanasundarlingam was supervising the cleaning, two of his accomplices, Raju and Guna went inside the sewage. Ramu fell inside the sewage tank and Mohanasundarlingam also entered the tank to save Ramu; while Ramu was pulled out to safety, Mohanasundarlingam collapsed and was immediately taken to the local hospital where he was declared brought dead. Mohansundaralingam hails from Thiagi village in Ramanathapuram and the Dalit organisations in the area took up the cause of his death. Meenakumari said that manual cleaning was abolished by law long back and added that those engaging people for this inhuman act must be brought to book. She said that the activists including a group of advocates have met the family members of the deceased Mohanasundaralingam at Coimbatore General Hospital where his postmortem will be conducted on Friday and assured them that they would take legal recourse and stand with the family of the deceased person. The Dalit rights activist told IANS that as per the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavangers and their Rehabilitation Act and the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, those who have engaged the deceased and his accomplices for manual scavenging will face stringent legal action. Bengaluru, Feb 9 : Condemning the removal of the Hanuman flag by the authorities, the Hindu organisations are observing a protest in Karnataka on Friday. The authorities have also beefed up security in Mandya district. The shops and establishments in Mandya district mostly remained closed in the backdrop of protest The police have also tightened the security at the residence of Congress MLA Ganiga Ravi. The BJP and JD (S) have also tacitly supported the protests. The Hindu organisations including the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal have demanded that the state government reinstall the Hanuman flag atop a 108-feet tall flag post in Keragodu village in Mandya district. The organisations are planning to recite Hanuman chalisa before all district commissioner officers and tehsildar offices. The organisations had also carried out saffron flag hoisting campaigns all over the state following the development of removal of the Hanuman flag. The state government has warned of legal action over provocative posts on the matter, while the BJP has criticised the Chief Minister, saying there was an "undeclared emergency" in the state. Minister for RDPR and IT and BT Priyank Kharge has said that the BJP and Sangh Parivar have made the coastal region its Hindutva laboratory. "They are now active in Mandya district, conducting Hindutva experiments," he said. San Francisco, Feb 9 : US-based car-sharing company Getaround, which helps vehicle owners rent out their cars, trucks and SUVs to other peers, has announced to lay off 30 per cent of its workforce as part of a restructuring. In a message to employees, Getaround founder and CEO Sam Zaid said that the decision to lay off workers is part of the company's plan to better meet the global nature of the carsharing business. "Our focus on profitability and sustainable business growth necessitated this difficult workforce reduction program," Zaid said in a statement. "We've made significant progress over the past year, including steady improvements in revenue growth and unit economics, as well as in overall adjusted EBITDA profile and operating efficiency," he added. The latest job cuts will affect the company's North American staff, effective immediately. The company anticipates that this cost-reduction program will result in savings of approximately $7 million on an annualised run-rate basis. It also expects to incur up to $1 million in restructuring costs in connection with the workforce reductions. "While we believe this restructuring plan is the right decision for the business, it does not diminish the challenge of letting talented colleagues go, or the gratitude we have for the dedication and professionalism of the team," Zaid said. The affected will receive up to 12 weeks of severance, full benefits through the end of February 2024 along with pay for three months. In February last year, Getaround laid off about 10 per cent of its workforce with immediate effect as part of a restructuring, with an aim to put the company on the path to "sustainable profitability and long-term growth". Islamabad, Feb 9 : As the counting of votes for the national elections is underway, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf on Friday claimed to have leads on over 150 seats, and asked PML(N) supremo Nawaz Sharif to "accept defeat". PTI on its official handle on X said: "Show some grace @NawazSharifMNS, accept the defeat! People of Pakistan will never accept you. This is a golden opportunity to regain some credibility as a democrat. Daylight robbery is going to be rejected massively by Pakistan! #PTIWon #RespectMandate." In a video message posted on PTI founder Imran Khan's X handle, party chief Gohar Khan said: "We will be making the next government in Pakistan, Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces. "Attempts are being made to change the results. According to Election Act, results have to be announced by 2 p.m. However 100 per cent results are yet to be announced. I urge the Election Commission of Pakistan to announce the results as soon as possible," Gohar, who has won NA-10 in Buner with 110,023 votes, said. PTI-backed candidates Fazal Muhammad Khan has won NA-25 Charsadda II Muhammad Abdul Salam and Sultan Room have won their seats from PK-58 Mardan and PK-9 Swat, Iftikharullah Jan has emerged victorious with 39,538 votes in PK-64 Charsadda III, Dawn reported. PTI-backed candidate Saleem Rehman has won from Swat's NA-3 with 81,411 votes, according to the preliminary result announced by the ECP. Meanwhile PML-N's Marriyum Aurangzeb has said that the party will form the government in the Centre and Punjab province. In a post on X, she said that the results were still being received by the party's election cell. "Due to the unavailability of mobile and internet services, it became difficult to get the results," she said, adding that the party's position was "strong". To form the government in the country, a party needs to secure win on 133 of the 265 seats. Polling was postponed on one seat after death of a candidate. Brookfield Asset Management (TSE:BAM) Full Year 2023 Results Key Financial Results Revenue: US$4.06b (up 12% from FY 2022). Net income: US$1.84b (down 4.0% from FY 2022). Profit margin: 45% (down from 53% in FY 2022). The decrease in margin was driven by higher expenses. EPS: US$4.72 (down from US$4.83 in FY 2022). All figures shown in the chart above are for the trailing 12 month (TTM) period Brookfield Asset Management Earnings Insights Looking ahead, revenue is forecast to grow 16% p.a. on average during the next 3 years, compared to a 2.7% growth forecast for the Capital Markets industry in Canada. Performance of the Canadian Capital Markets industry. The company's share price is broadly unchanged from a week ago. Risk Analysis It's still necessary to consider the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 1 warning sign with Brookfield Asset Management, and understanding it should be part of your investment process. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 9 : Following a huge backlash from the opposition parties and within the Pinarayi Vijayan-led Left Front, the proposal in the state Budget presented in the Assembly that batted for privatization in the higher education sector has been put on hold. On Monday, state Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal while presenting his fourth straight budget said the doors have been opened for private and foreign universities to open their campuses. As the first step towards this, he said four international educational conclaves will be held outside the country. He said experts hailing from Kerala and those working in the higher education sector abroad will be drafted for taking forward this idea. To fast track this idea, special packages will be introduced in the field of higher education. Balagopal had pointed out that all these changes were being made to ensure to attract foreign students to Kerala besides helping students from here presently going abroad for higher studies. But no sooner had the budget presentation got over, the Congress-led UDF opposition and the BJP went hammer and tongs on this major shift in the ideology of the Left, who have all along been against any sort of privatisation. State Higher Education Minister R. Bindhu also was seen expressing her displeasure and the only ones who batted for it was the Chief Minister himself, state CPI(M) party secretary M.V. Govindan and Balagopal. Meanwhile, according to sources, CM Vijayan, who returned from Delhi on Friday, has been directed by the party general secretary Sitaram Yechury not to take it further in view of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. As this is a major deviation from the CPI(M) ideology, no further action should be taken, Yechury has said, as per the sources, adding that the Congress and BJP will attack the Left during the election campaign. All along the CPI(M)-led Left in Kerala had staunchly opposed the entry of the private sector in the education sector. The Left led huge protests when the K. Karunakaran government in the '90s planned to open up a few professional courses in the medical sector and also when the A.K. Antony-led government in 2001 opened up the professional education sector in the self-financing mode. Incidentally, the present lot of CPI(M) state Ministers, including Balagopal, P. Rajeeve (Industries) M.B. Rajesh (Local Self Government) Saji Cherian (Fisheries) P.A. Mohammed Riyas (Tourism) and V. Sivankutty (Education) were all in the forefront of protests in the nineties whenever the Congress-led state governments tried to revamp the higher education sector. Hyderabad, Feb 9 : Legislators of Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) arrived in autorickshaws to attend the Budget session of the state legislature on Friday. Members of the Assembly and Council belonging to the main opposition party travelled in three-wheelers to reach the Assembly building to draw the government's attention to problems faced by autorickshaw drivers due to implementation of Mahalakshmi scheme under which women are allowed to travel free in TSRTC buses. The MLAs and MLCs were carrying placards demanding the government to come to the rescue of autorickshaw drivers. After reaching the Assembly in a three-wheeler from MLA Quarters, former minister and Siddipet MLA T. Harish Rao told media persons that 6.5 lakh autorickshaw drivers were literally on roads due to the Congress governmentas scheme. He demanded that the government provide monthly financial assistance of Rs 10,000 each to autorickshaw drivers. The BRS legislators also demanded Rs.15 lakh ex-gratia each to the families of autorickshaw drivers who committed suicide after implementation of the scheme. There was tension at the Assembly gate as BRS legislators were prevented by security personnel from entering the Assembly building with placards. This led to an argument between both sides. The MLAs and MLCs attended the session wearing black scarves to show solidarity with autorickshaw drivers. Earlier, the BRS MLAs staged a protest at MLA Quarters Hyderguda. They raised slogans, demanding the government to allocate funds in the State Budget for autorickshaw drivers. Kolkata, Feb 9 : A doctor of a state-run hospital in Kolkata received accolades from a judge of the Calcutta High Court for terminating the 23-week pregnancy of a rape victim which was conducted before the formation of a medical board as directed by the same court last month. On January 29, the single- judge bench of Justice Sabyasachi Bhattacharyya, while permitting the termination of pregnancy of the rape victim, also directed the formation of a medical board for that purpose and inform the court about it before actually going for that exercise. However, after the victim was admitted at the state-run M.R Bangur Hospital for that exercise, the doctor concerned directly went for the termination of pregnancy without forming the medical board and informing the Calcutta High Court about it. Accordingly, the bench of Justice Bhattacharyya sought the explanation of the doctor concerned on why the court order was not followed true to its spirit. However, the explanation given by the doctor concerned satisfied Justice Bhattacharyya. The explanation was that when the victim was admitted her medical condition was extremely critical and she was even bleeding. The doctor explained that in such a situation if he had waited for the process of formation of the medical board and then inform the court in the matter, the delay could have been a life threat for the victim. Satisfied with the explanation, Justice Bhattacharyya observed in this particular case the doctor concerned has done the right thing by not wasting time in adhering to each line of the court order. He also made it clear that the court will not take any action against the doctor on this issue. The victim was facing problems relating to the termination of pregnancy since when it was detected then 21 weeks had passed. As per Indian law a pregnancy which is 20 weeks or above can be terminated only with the permission of any court. Haley reiterates US will have a female president - either her or Kamala Harris. Image Source: IANS News Washington, Feb 9 : Fresh out of her stinging loss in the Nevada primary, a confident Nikki Haley has reiterated that the US will have a female president in 2024 -- either her or Vice President Kamala Harris -- both Indian-Americans. "This is about the fact that we are going to have a female President of the US. It will either be me or it will be Kamala Harris," the Republican presidential aspirant told Fox News @ Night on Thursday. Following her first Republican presidential debate last year, Haley had said that the thought of having Harris as president "should send a chill up every American spine", adding that a vote for President Joe Biden is a vote for Harris. Haley first spoke about the US having a female president during a meet and greet at a Columbia barbeque restaurant last week. "We will have a female president of the US," Haley told a gathering of about 100 people at Doc's BBQ, which booed when she said, "the hard truth is it's going to be me or Kamala Harris". According to a Morning Consult survey, 33 per cent of voters said they hold a positive view of Haley, while 40 per cent said they have an unfavorable view of her, which equates to a net favorability rating of negative 7. As for Harris, 37 per cent of respondents held a favorable view, while 56 had a negative view of her, resulting in a net favorability rating of negative 19, a Newsweek report said, citing the survey. Speaking to Fox News, Haley said her rival and Republican frontrunner Donald Trump cannot win the general election, moments after the US Supreme Court finished hearing arguments in a landmark legal case to decide whether the former president can be on the ballot in November's election. "He can't win a general election. That's a fact. We lost in 2018. We lost in 2020. We lost in 2022... he;s got a year's worth of court cases yet... Everything he touches is chaos, and we continue to lose," Haley told the news channel. Having voted for Trump twice and "proud" to serve in his administration as UN ambassador, Haley asked, "How many more times do we have to lose before we realise that is the problem?" The lone woman in the 2024 White House race said that the US cannot be a country in disarray in a world on fire and go through four more years of chaos. "We won't survive it," she said. Trump won Nevada's Republican caucuses after being the only major candidate to participate and said that Haley continuing with the 2024 presidential run "hurts" the party as well as the country. Addressing reporters outside his Mar-a-Lago residence on Thursday, the septuagenarian highlighted Haley's losses in Iowa, New Hampshire, and Nevada. "I don't know why she continues. I don't really care if she continues... but let her continue. We have a big win coming up, as you know, in South Carolina, and the polls are indicating that we're through the roof on that one". Haley ran in Nevada's symbolic state-run presidential primary on Tuesday where voters chose 'none of these candidates' over her. While speaking to Fox News, she insisted after these results that the whole thing was "rigged" for Trump. "Nevada -- it's such a scam. They were supposed to have a primary. Trump rigged it so the GOP chairman -- who's been indicted -- would go and create a caucus," Haley said. Following her Nevada loss, Haley said her campaign is in "full steam ahead in South Carolina and beyond". Trump's Nevada victory gives him all 26 of the state's delegates, and the 77-year-old needs to accrue 1,215 delegates to formally clinch GOP's presidential nomination. Mumbai, Feb 9 : Actor Ashmit Patel, who is making his return to acting with the streaming series 'State v/s Ahuja', has shared what he was doing during his "self-imposed hiatus". The actor shared that he was busy with music production and his gigs as a DJ during the time of his hiatus. The actor essays the lead role in the series which narrates the tale of Bollywood superstar Ansh Ahuja facing rape accusations by his maid. The series has been directed by Tarun Chopra. As the plot thickens, viewers are drawn into a riveting world of suspense, investigation, and courtroom drama, where unexpected revelations keep them hooked. Talking about the same, Ashmit Patel, who plays the role of Ansh, said: "I'm thrilled not only to return to the screen after a brief break (during which time Iave been working on my music production and doing my DJ gigs) with such an intriguing concept. 'State v/s Ahuja' delves into complex themes and keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The character of Ansh offers a depth and complexity that immediately intrigued me." The show also stars Jaswinder Gardner, Anurekha Bhagat, Sarika Singh, Swapnil Ralkar, Apeksha Verma, Drishti Patil, Manish Jaitley, Arjun Krishna, Vicky Baidyanath, and Harsh Gautam. The actor further mentioned: "As an actor, I'm always drawn to roles that push boundaries and provoke thought. 'State v/s Ahuja' offered me exactly that opportunity. It allowed me to challenge myself in new ways. When I read the script and the character details, it felt like the perfect project to break my self-imposed hiatus, and without a second thought, I went for it. Now that the series is streaming on Watcho, I can't wait for viewers to experience this suspenseful story with me." Produced by Suresh Thomas under the banners of Crescendo Films and Amicable Crew, 'State v/s Ahuja' is available to stream on Watcho. New York, Feb 9 : Mutant wolves around Chernobyl, where the world's worst nuclear accident took place 35 years ago, has now developed anti-cancer abilities, an advance that may open door for cure against the deadly disease, according to a study. In 1986, a nuclear reactor at the Chernobyl power plant exploded, releasing cancer-causing radiation and irradiated debris into the environment. The Chernobyl Exclusion Zone (CEZ), a 1,000 square mile zone surrounding area, cordoned off to prevent further exposure to radiation, has been recolonised by wildlife like horses, wolves, forests, and fungi. Now, researchers at the Princeton University in the US are studying how the wolves of Chernobyl survive and thrive despite generations of exposure and the accumulation of radioactive particles in their bodies. The team led by Cara Love, an evolutionary biologist and ecotoxicologist in Shane Campbell-Staton's lab at Princeton in 2014 went to the CEZ, radio-collared wolves, and took blood to understand the wolves' responses to cancer-causing radiation. Using these specialty GPS collars armed with radiation dosimeters, "we get real time measurements of where they are and how much (radiation) they are exposed to," said Love. They discovered that Chernobyl wolves were exposed to upwards of 11.28 millirem of radiation everyday for their entire lives, over six times the legal safety limit for the average human worker. Unlike wolves living exclusively outside the CEZ, Love found that Chernobyl wolves have altered immune systems, similar to cancer patients undergoing radiation treatment. And most promising, she has identified specific regions of the wolf genome that seem resilient to increased cancer risk. Most human research has found mutations increasing cancer risk (like BRCA does with breast cancer), but Love's work hopes to identify protective mutations that increase the odds of surviving cancer. Tragically, Covid-19 and ongoing war in the region have prevented Love and her collaborators from returning to the CEZ since. "Our priority is for people and collaborators there to be as safe as possible," she said. Love presented the findings at the Annual Meeting of Society of Integrative and Comparative Biology's Annual Meeting in Seattle, Washington in January. IANS rvt/rad Interfaith couple thrashed in UP, charged with love jihad. Image Source: IANS News Chikkamagaluru, : Feb 9 (IANS) Karnataka police arrested seven VHP activists on Friday for assaulting a Muslim youth over allegations of 'Love jihad' in Chikkamagaluru District. Chikkamagaluru, (Karnataka) Feb 9 (IANS) Karnataka police arrested seven VHP activists on Friday for assaulting a Muslim youth over allegations of aLove jihada in Chikkamagaluru District. The assault on the youth had taken place in Alduru town on Friday. The parents of the girl allegedly targeted by the youth also lodged a complaint against him, accusing him of attempted kidnap and cheating in the name of love. The parents of the youth also lodged a counter complaint against the assault on their son and the seven men were held by the police. There is tension in Alduru town over the development and police have beefed up security. According to police, Ruman, who is a dance master, was wooing a minor girl. A group of VHP activists accused him of aLove jihada and barged into his office. They assaulted him after locking it from the inside. More details are yet to emerge regarding the matter. Police are investigating the incident. (PAK PKG) With polls round the corner, all eyes on Nawaz Sharif's homecoming. Image Source: IANS News Islamabad, Fe 9 : Even as PTI-backed candidates have won many seats in the general elections, PML(N) on Friday claimed to have the majority in the National Assembly. PML-N leader and former finance minister Ishaq Dar stressed that some media channels are "misleading" and "misguiding" the public. "PML-N was currently the single largest political party," he told Geo News. PML (N) leader and former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has won both National and Provincial Assembly seats in Lahore, ARY news reported. Shehbaz's brother and PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif defeated PTI-backed Yasmin Rashid. Nawaz's daughter and PML(N) chief organiser, who also won the election, said contrary to the "false perception", her party is emerging as the single largest party in Centre and Punjab province. She said the PML-N supremo will deliver victory speech once final results are out. Taking to X, she posted: "As opposed to the false perception deliberately built by a section of media last night, PMLN, Alhamdolillah emerging as the single largest party in centre and in Punjab. Some results awaited. MNS will head to PMLN HQ for the victory speech as soon as final results are received. Insha'Allah. Stay tuned." New Delhi, Feb 9 : Max Healthcare Institute Ltd (MHIL), one of India's largest private healthcare providers on Friday announced the acquisition of 100 per cent stake in Alexis Multi-Speciality Hospital Private Limited (Alexis) for an Enterprise Value of Rs 412 Crores. The 200 bedded-hospital owned and operated by Alexis is a JCI accredited facility located on a land parcel of 2 acres at Mankapur, North of Nagpur - an upmarket residential and commercial hub. The hospital has G+6 floors and a basement with a built up area of 2.25 lakh-sft and offers multidisciplinary care in the areas of gastroenterology, neurosurgery, cardiology, transplants, related diagnostic facilities etc. The hospital is equipped with high end biomedical equipment like Varian TrueBeam LINAC, 128 Slice CT Scan, 3 Tesla MRI, Digital X Ray, ARTIS Q Cath Lab, etc. The bed capacity can be expanded to 340 beds in view of the availability of the FAR for the given land and the strength of the existing structure. Further, the hospital medical program can be further strengthened in the surgical specialties like CTVS, urology, oncology and neurosciences leading to improvement in average revenue per occupied bed (ARPOB) and occupied bed days (OBD). The current run rate of Revenue & EBITDA for the Hospital is Rs 150 Cr and Rs 25 Cr respectively. The hospital is generating cash and has good brand equity in the market in the region. Nagpur is a fast growing city with a population density of 47L & high literacy rate (90 per cent). The city is strategically located in the heart of Maharashtra and experiences drainage from adjacent regions like Amravati , Jalgaon, Gondia, Chhindwara, etc. Further the city has availability of experienced medical talent owing to the presence of government hospitals, medical colleges and private healthcare players. This acquisition further strengthens Max Healthcare's footprint in Western India and will enable provisioning of best in class clinical care to all patients in the region. Abhay Soi, Chairman and Managing Director, Max Healthcare Institute Ltd said that the acquisition of Alexis Hospital is in line with our vision to expand the footprint in tier 2 cities with abundance of clinical talent and developed private healthcare infrastructure. "Alexis Hospital acquisition will strengthen our presence in Maharashtra Region and with this addition, we now have 4 JCI accredited facilities in our network and we look forward to bringing the high-end quality care to people of the region," he said. Zanubia Shams, Co-Chairperson of Zulekha Healthcare Group (Promoter of Alexis Hospital, Nagpur) said that they were pleased that Max Healthcare is acquiring the hospital in Nagpur. "While we have built a world-class hospital facility, at par with the best, in infrastructure, technology, and clinical services, our decision to consider divesting this business has been driven by our strategic focus on our healthcare businesses in the UAE and Gulf," he said. The share purchase agreement for acquisition of Alexis Multi-Speciality Hospital Private Limited is being consummated forthwith. Srinagar, Feb 9 : Anjuman Auqaf, the management of historic Jamia Masjid in J&K's Srinagar city, said on Friday that senior separatist leader, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has been put under house arrest by the authorities. Srinagar, Feb 9 (IANS) Anjuman Auqaf, the management of historic Jamia Masjid in J&Kas Srinagar city, said on Friday that senior separatist leader, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has been put under house arrest by the authorities. Anjuman Auqaf said that in order to prevent him from delivering the Friday sermon, authorities have placed Mirwaiz Umar Farooq in house arrest inside his Nigeen residence on the outskirts of Srinagar city. A large congregation of devout Muslims has assembled at the Jamia Masjid in the Nowhatta area of old Srinagar city and at the Hazratbal shrine to offer the congregational Friday prayers. Friday is an auspicious occasion as it follows the holy night of the aMeraja (The night of ascension of the Prophet of Islam to Heaven) according to the Muslims. The UT government has declared a public holiday across J&K on Friday to allow devotees offer congregational prayers. Key Insights UNITEDLABELS' estimated fair value is 1.73 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity Current share price of 1.97 suggests UNITEDLABELS is potentially trading close to its fair value Industry average of 37% suggests UNITEDLABELS' peers are currently trading at a higher premium to fair value Does the February share price for UNITEDLABELS Aktiengesellschaft (ETR:ULC) 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. Models like these may appear beyond the comprehension of a lay person, but they're fairly easy to follow. We generally believe that a company's value is the present value of all of the cash it will generate in the future. However, a DCF is just one valuation metric among many, and it is not without flaws. If you want to learn more about discounted cash flow, the rationale behind this calculation can be read in detail in the Simply Wall St analysis model. See our latest analysis for UNITEDLABELS 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. To begin with, we have to get estimates of the next ten years of cash flows. Seeing as no analyst estimates of free cash flow are available to us, we have extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the company's last reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years. Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value: Story continues 10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (, Millions) 1.18m 994.9k 886.5k 820.4k 778.9k 752.7k 736.2k 726.1k 720.4k 717.7k Growth Rate Estimate Source Est @ -22.82% Est @ -15.81% Est @ -10.90% Est @ -7.46% Est @ -5.05% Est @ -3.37% Est @ -2.19% Est @ -1.37% Est @ -0.79% Est @ -0.38% Present Value (, Millions) Discounted @ 6.8% 1.1 0.9 0.7 0.6 0.6 0.5 0.5 0.4 0.4 0.4 ("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St) Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = 6.1m 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 (0.6%) 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 6.8%. Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033 (1 + g) (r g) = 718k (1 + 0.6%) (6.8% 0.6%) = 12m Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= 12m ( 1 + 6.8%)10= 5.9m 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 12m. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of 2.0, the company appears around fair value at the time of writing. Remember though, that this is just an approximate valuation, and like any complex formula - garbage in, garbage out. dcf The Assumptions Now the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate, and of course, the actual cash flows. You don't have to agree with these inputs, I recommend redoing the calculations yourself and playing with them. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at UNITEDLABELS as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 6.8%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.363. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business. Looking Ahead: Valuation is only one side of the coin in terms of building your investment thesis, and 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. Rather it should be seen as a guide to "what assumptions need to be true for this stock to be under/overvalued?" For instance, if the terminal value growth rate is adjusted slightly, it can dramatically alter the overall result. For UNITEDLABELS, we've compiled three fundamental factors you should consider: Risks: For example, we've discovered 2 warning signs for UNITEDLABELS 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 Top Analyst Picks: Interested to see what the analysts are thinking? Take a look at our interactive list of analysts' top stock picks to find out what they feel might have an attractive future outlook! PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every German stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Hyderabad, Feb 9 : Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) president and former Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao has hailed the decision of the Government of India to confer Bharat Ratna on former Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao. KCR, in a statement, described this as an honour for the people of Telangana. The BRS chief thanked the Centre for accepting the demand of BRS for conferring the country's highest civilian award on Narasimha Rao. BRS working president K.T. Rama Rao has also welcomed the decision of the Centre. He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for this decision. "We have been demanding the Union Government for this honour since the centenary celebrations of Sri PVNR held by Telangana Govt under the leadership of Sri KCR Garu," KTR posted on X. In 2020, Telangana Assembly had passed a resolution, urging the Centre to confer Bharat Ratna on Narasimha Rao. While moving the resolution, Rao had described Narasimha Rao as a statesman, intellectual par excellence and a multi-linguist, crediting Rao with introducing modern economic reforms and paving the way for making India one of the largest economies in the world. "Only two leaders turned India's modern history. One was Jawaharlal Nehru, the architect of modern India and the second one was P V Narasimha Rao who was the maker of global India," he said. Gurugram, Feb 9 : Municipal Corporation Gurugram (MCG) on Friday said that more colonies will be regularised in Gurugram while a tender process has also been started. "A survey is to be conducted regarding illegal colonies in the city. The tender process for this has been started and the survey work will be handed over this month," Sumit Malik, DTP MCG said. "The survey will find out whether the area of the colonies is within the limit of the corporation or not, along with whether these colonies are meeting the standards of regularisation or not. There is a plan to survey a total of 294 colonies," the officials said. They said that the government had planned to regularise more than 1200 illegal colonies in the state. "A proposal to regularize 103 colonies under the purview of the Gurugram Municipal Corporation was sent to the headquarters. Of these, a total of 38 colonies are meeting the requirements out of which 13 colonies have been regularised and the remaining 25 colonies are also expected to be regularised soon," the officials said. They said that three illegal colonies of the Manesar Municipal Corporation area have also been regularised by the government. As per rules, there is no provision by the civic body to provide facilities including roads, sewer, drinking water and street lights in illegal colonies. As soon as the colonies are regularised, the Municipal Corporation will provide facilities, which will benefit people of these colonies. Toronto, Feb 9 : A 32-year-old Indian-origin personal support worker has been arrested for allegedly assaulting an 89-year-old elderly at a care home in Canada's Ontario province. Suman Soni, 32, has been charged with two counts of assault that occurred on January 29 and February 2, the York Regional Police said on Thursday. Police said they were contacted on February 2 in connection with elder abuse incidents that occurred at a care home in Vaughan, a city located in the regional municipality of York, Ontario. "Through investigation, police learned an 89-year-old male resident was assaulted by a PSW (personal support worker) on two occasions, January 29 and February 2, 2024," a release by the York Regional Police said. "Investigators believe there are more victims and are releasing photos of the accused, asking that any other victims please come forward," it added. Asking anyone with information to contact them, the York police said that the probe into the case will continue. In November last year, a 49-year-old employee at a care facility in Alberta was arrested and charged with physically assaulting an 87-year-old. As per the 2021 census, the number of Canadians over 85 years of age has more than doubled over the last two decades. The abuse of older people has increased since the pandemic with a 2022 World Health Organisation study saying that one in six people -- 60 years and above --experienced some form of abuse in community settings in the past year. The number of people in this age bracket is expected to grow by 38 per cent from 1 billion to 1.4 billion between 2019 and 2030, according to the UN. The WHO report pointed out that the rates of abuse of elders are higher in nursing homes and long-term care facilities, with two in three staff reporting that they have committed abuse in the past year. New Delhi, Feb 9 : The Delhi Police's Special Cell has arrested a wanted gangster of Bihar and his associate, who were running extortion and land grabbing syndicates activities in Delhi and Noida, an official said on Friday. The accused gangster identified as Chandan Ram, had over two dozen cases of murder, extortion and land grabbing in Bihar and a reward of Rs 50,000 was also declared by Bihar's Motihari Police on information leading to his arrest. Police said that the accused and his associates were nabbed on Thursday night in the national capital. "The duo was spotted and when asked to surrender, Chandan and his associate identified as Sundar opened fire at the police team, but were overpowered," said a senior police official. The officer said Sundar was also found involved in at least three criminal cases in Bihar. The officer further said that the duo was staying in Delhi and used to go to Noida to make extortion calls in Bihar. Lucknow, Feb 9 : A woman constable has filed an FIR against her husband for cheating and abuse after she found that he had lied about his UPSC aspirant status to woo her for marriage last year. As per the FIR, Vijay Singh (22) married the woman constable by posing as a student who has cleared the UPSC civil services 2023 mains and was waiting for the interview. When his lies were exposed, the man allegedly started physically and mentally abusing the constable, who subsequently filed an FIR. DCP Central Zone, Raveena Tyagi said that Singh, hailing from Gonda, reportedly lured the constable into marriage by deceit. "He fabricated the documents to convince her of his supposed UPSC success, even creating a fake newspaper report announcing his achievement. The constable agreed to marry him in 2023," Tyagi said. However, when she discovered about Singh's lies, she became the target of his abuse, both physical and mental. She filed a complaint against him at the Madeyganj police station on Thursday after which the police arrested Singh. DCP Tyagi said that he is facing charges under various sections, including assault, cruelty by husband, cheating, and forgery. He is currently under investigation and awaits judicial custody. Further investigation revealed two previously registered cases against Singh in his hometown of Gonda, adding another layer to his troubled past. "We are coordinating with our Gonda counterparts to ensure action against him," said DCP Tyagi. New Delhi, Feb 9 : The Delhi High Court on Friday issued notice on a plea challenging a notification by the Bar Council of India (BCI), which allowed the entry of foreign law firms and lawyers in India. Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora have sought responses from the BCI and the Centre on the plea against the notification issued on March 10 last year. Contesting its validity, the plea by several lawyers enrolled with the Bar Council of Delhi (BCD), argue that the notification is ultra vires the provisions of the Advocates Act, 1961, and subsequent amendments. Counsel for the petitioners Senior Advocate Rajesh Tikku, pointed out that the impugned notification contradicts the Supreme Court's ruling in Bar Council of India vs. A.K. Balaji & Ors (2015), which prohibits foreign law firms or lawyers from practicing in India, whether in litigation or non-litigation matters. Tikku said that the BCI lacks the authority to permit the entry of foreign lawyers who are not enrolled as advocates under the Advocates Act, and the notification violates statutory provisions. In defence, BCI's counsel, Advocate Preet Pal Singh, referred to the rationale behind the notification, arguing that foreign lawyers would be subject to BCI's regulation and supervision, ensuring compliance with ethical standards. Singh said that foreign lawyers would have limited rights and their practice would be strictly monitored by the BCI. The plea seeks to restrain the BCI and the Union government from enforcing the notification and from allowing any foreign law firms or lawyers to establish offices and practice in India. It says that the BCI lacks the authority under the Advocates Act to permit foreign lawyers or law firms to enter India and to recognise them as advocates. The petitioners contend that foreign lawyers and law firms cannot be enrolled as advocates under the Advocates Act, and permitting them to practice law, even in non-litigious matters, is illegal and contrary to the Act. The matter has been scheduled for the next hearing in April. Kolkata, Feb 9 : The tension at Sandeshkhali in West Bengal escalated on Friday after women agitators seeking absconding Trinamool Congress leader Sheikh Shahjahan's arrest, burnt down a poultry farm owned by his close confidant and Trinamool Congress leader Shibu Hazra. Sheikh Shahjahan is the alleged mastermind behind the attack on ED and CAPF personnel at Sandeshkhali in North 24 Parganas district on January 5. Since Thursday afternoon several local women had been protesting on the streets demanding arrest of Shahjahan and his close associates in Sandeshkhali, whom they accused of making their lives miserable for quite some time before the attack on the ED's men. However, their protest took a violent turn on Friday after they burnt down the poultry farm owned by Hazra. After burning down the farm the protesters claimed that it was set up on a plot of land that had been forcefully occupied by the Trinamool Congress leader. They also alleged that the farm had become a hub of all sorts of illegal activities. They protesters also alleged that there were several other incidents of forceful grabbing of land by Shahjahan and his associates in the Sandeshkhali area. "Besides, land grabbing, they also forced the villagers to provide free labour in the businesses run by them. The women of the area were unable to step out of their homes after sunset because of the fear of molestation by Shahjahan's associates," a woman protester said. Meanwhile, in the face of the massive agitation, the district administration of North 24 Parganas has ordered the formation of an investigation committee to look into the complaints of land grabbing. The block land revenue officer will head the said committee. Amaravati, Feb 9 : Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has expressed delight over former Prime Minister P. V. Narasimha Rao being conferred Bharat Ratna posthumously. "It's an honour to all Telugu speaking people as the statesman, scholar with high political and moral values gets the highest civilian award which he richly deserves and it merits an all-round applause," the Chief Minister said in a statement. "Conferring Bharat Ratna on former Prime Minister Sri Chaudhary Charan Singh, who championed the farmer's cause and Agriculture Scientist Sri MS Swaminathan, Father of Green Revolution is a matter of pride to the entire nation," he added. Leader of opposition and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) president Chandrababu Naidu also hailed the Centre's decision to confer the highest civilian award on Narasimha Rao. He called it a proud moment for all Telugus across the globe. "An eminent scholar, leader, economist, writer, statesman, polyglot, and a humanist - PV Garu's stellar leadership and pioneering economic reforms steered India through tough times, putting our great nation on the path to achieve greatness on the world stage. I've had the great fortune of meeting him on several occasions, deriving inspiration from his vision for the State and the Country," Naidu said. TDP general secretary Nara Lokesh termed this as the best news in recent times and a true honour for all Telugus. He stated that Narasimha Rao is credited for 'transforming the economic scenario of our nation with his reforms, but he has done much more than that to make India the powerhouse it is today for the world.' "My humble tributes to the great leader for all his distinguished accomplishments that has brought a positive change in the lives of millions," said Lokesh. New Delhi: Media persons at the Supreme Court complex on the day of the court's verdict. Image Source: IANS News New Delhi, Feb 9 : The Supreme Court on Friday refused to initiate contempt action against officials of the Election Commission of India (ECI) for not modifying the forms which compel the voter to mandatorily provide their Aadhaar number. The poll body had earlier undertaken before the top court that it was looking into issuing "clarificatory changes in the forms" as linking Aadhaar numbers with electoral rolls is not mandatory under the Registration of Electors (Amendment) Rules 2022. The contempt plea filed by the Congress' Telangana unit Senior Vice President G. Niranjan alleged that even after having sufficient time, the ECI officials have not taken any steps to modify the forms, specifically Form 6 (Application Form for New Voters) and the Form 6B (Letter of Information of Aadhaar Number for the purpose of Electoral Roll Authentication). In an earlier round of litigation, responding to a writ petition filed by Niranjan, the ECI in September 2023 told the Supreme Court that submission of Aadhaar particulars was voluntary and over 66 crore Aadhaar numbers have already been uploaded in the process of finalising electoral rolls. The plea said that the present forms compel the voter to provide Aadhaar number though the EC claims that the submission of Aadhaar details is optional. The petition filed before the apex court alleged that the ECI has been insisting that its officials collect Aadhaar numbers of voters and the state officers are forcing the village, and booth-level officials to collect Aadhaar numbers from the voters. It claimed that "the ground-level officials are forcing the voters to submit their Aadhaar numbers and threatening the voters that if the Aadhaar card number is not provided then the voter will lose their vote." New Delhi, Feb 9 : Sanjay Jha, trusted associate of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is all set to be nominated by the JD-U as its candidate for the upcoming biennial polls for Rajya Sabha. Jha is an MLC and had been Cabinet Minister for Water Resources in Nitish government, which went out after JD-U severed its ties with the RJD and aligned with the BJP to form a new government. Jha is part of Nitishas core strategy team and is apparent from the fact that he accompanied him in all opposition INDIA block meetings or any other important political meetings that were held in Patna or outside. The move assumes special significance as it comes in immediate aftermath of Nitishas realignment with the BJP. Since Vajpayee-Advani era when Arun Jaitley was in-charge of Bihar affairs, Jha rose in prominence as the person who would connect with Nitish and senior BJP leaders with equal ease and trust. Jhaas prospective landing in Delhi as Rajya Sabha MP means that he would be acting as Nitishas emissary in the National Capital when critical negotiations with senior BJP leaders would have to be held in the next few months and give a sense of stability to the alliance. Canary Wharf Group is looking to diversify as more companies desert the district - eduardod/iStock Editorial A row is brewing between Canary Wharf and the local council as the property group battles to turn empty office space into residential flats. The Canary Wharf Group has clashed with policymakers in Tower Hamlets over red tape that could prevent it from converting buildings after a string of companies exiting the district. Plans are afoot to convert entire blocks into a mix of residential, retail and hotel space, as the landlords strive to future-proof the area while workers shun the office. However, tensions have arisen after calls from Tower Hamlets Council to keep Canary Wharf office-led. Paul Swinney, director of policy and research at Centre of Cities said: There is tension between the council and Canary Wharf landlords. The council is looking to take a long-term view on its plan for the area and they dont want to be too reactive and change things too quickly. Tower Hamlets and City Hall will have to look at how large Londons economy is and give it the space it needs to grow. We wouldnt want businesses to look for commercial space elsewhere. Talk of a rift with the local council comes as the district reels from one of its buildings being sold at a 60pc discount, making it one of the largest distressed sales in recent years. The property in question was 5 Churchill Place, which was bought for 270m by Chinese investor Cheung Kei Group in 2017 but recently sold to Israeli real estate firm Ariomori for just 110m. It comes after the district was dealt a blow by HSBCs decision to leave the Docklands for the City last year. In the latest version of Tower Hamlets local plan - a document that addresses the needs of different parts of the borough - the council called Canary Wharf Londons second financial district. It said that 40pc of the councils employment came from that area and that it should remain a commercial and employment-led development. The changes brought forward by Canary Wharf Group, which owns most of the buildings in the district, include new shops, cafes and restaurants. Story continues A spokesman for the Tower Hamlets council said: Canary Wharf is one of the councils preferred office locations in the borough. We are currently reviewing how this designation operates in light of the market changes and we address this in the new draft local plan. We will continue to work closely with Canary Wharf Group to understand their challenges and develop a set of policies which meet our planning ambitions and guide the future development of the area. A Canary Wharf Group spokesman said: We have a productive working relationship with the London Borough of Tower Hamlets. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Kochi, Feb 9 : The mother of a six-year-old girl, who was raped and murdered in Vandiperiyar in Idukki district, has approached the Kerala High Court seeking a reinvestigation, after the accused, Arjun was acquitted by a local court in December. The incident came to light in June 2021, when the girl was found hanging in her house after her parents, who are plantation workers, returned home after work. Arjun, 24, according to the Congress and the local BJP leaders is a member of the youth wing of the CPI(M) and hence got all the support from not just the party but also the police, and hence the acquittal came for want of a proper probe. The present plea for a reinvestigation comes at a time when an appeal by the Kerala government challenging the acquittal is pending before the High Court. The mother's plea pointed out that the acquittal came due to a faulty probe and wants a "fair, honest, impartial, efficient and independent re-investigation". PSI recruitment scam: Probe by judicial committee will bring out truth, says K'taka Home Min. Image Source: IANS News Bengaluru, Feb 9 : Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara on Friday said that the drug menace is a big challenge faced by the Police Department in Bengaluru. "The maximum usage of Ganja is found in Punjab and is now infamously known as 'Udta Punjab'. Bengaluru City is facing a similar threat," Parameshwara said while participating in the seized drug destruction program by the Bengaluru Rural Police. He said that maximum questions are being raised in the legislative assembly and council on the menace of drugs. "The life and health of youth are being destroyed. Earlier, drugs were supplied through chocolates but it has come down after I took over the Home department," he said. He said that the authorities have also received reports of drugs being supplied in parties, clubs, bars, and restaurants. "This should stop. Our concern is to save youth and children. Whenever drug peddlers are arrested, action is taken to seize their properties," Home Minister Parameshwara said. He said that there are 6,764 cases registered in the state in connection with drug peddling. "Around 9,645 kilograms of ganja and 233 kilograms of synthetic drugs have been seized in 2023. At least 7,400 Indians and 136 foreign nationals have also been arrested," the state Home Minister said. He said that the Police Department has also destroyed Rs 36 crore worth of drugs, including 3,885 kilograms of MDMA and hashish oil. "We are trying to make Karnataka a drug-free state. If the police in all districts work towards this, Karnataka will become a drug-free state," he said. Parameshwara said that as the Police Department is celebrating its golden jubilee, they have pledged that they will make Karnataka a drug-free state. "To make Karnataka a drug-free state, the police have taken the war against the drugs on war footing," he said. He said that African nationals have been on forefront in carrying out drug peddling across the state due to which many youth have been killed. Mastermind behind attack on ED officials somewhere in his locality, claims TMC legislator. Image Source: IANS News Kolkata, Feb 9 : Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday issued a third notice for interrogation to absconding Trinamool Congress leader Sheikh Shahjahan, the accused mastermind of January 5 attack on ED and CAPF personnel at Sandeshkhali in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district. This the third notice issued by the central agency to the absconding Trinamool Congress leader. Earlier, he ducked two similar summons from ED and avoided coming to the agencyas Salt Lake office in the northern outskirts of Kolkata -- first on January 29 and then on February 5. On February 5, although Shahjahan did not turn up for questioning, on the same evening his counsel reached the ED office to handover a letter to the central agency official where more time had been sought by his client for appearance. However, the ED sleuths refused to accept that letter officially. Already 35 days have passed since the attack on the ED and CAPF personnel took place and Shahjahan has managed to remain absconding. In the meantime, he had approached two different courts in the state seeking anticipatory bail. Meanwhile, ED has already issued a lookout notice against Shahjahan in anticipation that he might escape to neighbouring Bangladesh, whose international border with India is very close to his residence in Sandeshkhali. Ali Fazal and Richa Chadha are expecting their first child. Image Source: News Helpline February 09 : Recently Vikrant Massey and Sheetal Thakur welcomed a baby boy, and Aditya Dhar and Yami Gautam announced their first pregnancy, and now the power couple of Bollywood, actor Ali Fazal and Richa Chadha are all set to embrace parenthood. Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal, the couple confirmed the news through a heart-warming post shared on social media, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. They took to their social media profile and shared an adorable image with a simple equation, 1 + 1 = 3, accompanied by the caption, A tiny heartbeat is the loudest sound in our world. Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal, who tied the knot in 2021 after a long courtship, expressed their happiness and anticipation as they prepare to welcome their little bundle of joy. The couple met during Fukrey and fell in love, soon they got married in 2020, but celebrated their union with grand festivities in 2022, hosting a lavish reception in Mumbai attended by close friends and colleagues from the film industry. Meanwhile on the work front, Richa is set to dazzle audiences in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's highly anticipated Netflix film, Heeramandi, alongside an ensemble cast including Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Sanjeeda Shaikh, and Sharmin Segal, slated for release in 2024. On the other hand, Ali Fazal is gearing up for his roles in the much-awaited Mirzapur 3 and Metro In Dino. New Delhi, Feb 9 : P.V. Manohar Rao, the brother of former Prime Minister late Narasimha Rao, who was conferred with the Bharat Ratna award on Friday, said the coveted award should have been given to the first non-Gandhi Prime Minister from the Congress 20 years ago. Narasimha Rao's brother, in an exclusive conversation with IANS, tore into the Congress party for 'denying his due' for 20 long years and also slammed the top leadership for not acknowledging and recognising his contributions to the country, leave aside taking pride in the series of reforms that happened under his leadership. He also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the awarding the nation's highest civilian honour to Narasimha Rao. "Narasimha Rao should have been awarded Bharat Ratna 20 years ago but Manmohan Singh-led UPA couldn't do it," former PM's brother said. PV Manohar Rao, in a veiled attack on Gandhis, said that the partymen were in favour of nation's highest civilian honour for Narasimha Rao but 'directions from certain leaders' prevented it from facilitating the same. "Manmohan Singh was the Prime Minister of Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) for 10 years but it kept brushing the issue under carpet. Cong govt didn't give award, despite being in power for 10 years. It's no secret that UPA government functioned as per the diktats of certain people in the party." he said. "It never announced any award or honour despite Narasimha Rao's ground-breaking leadership in taking the nation forward," he added. Further sharing his angst and anger, he said that Narasimha Rao's contribution to India's growth trajectory is immense and therefore rather than burying it under the carpet, this should have been celebrated and his leadership should have been hailed by Congressmen. When asked if Congress forgot his legacy, he said that it was time to celebrate and not to make political statements but he did mention, "some leaders within the party are sad & disappointed today over top honours being extended to first non-Congress Prime Minister." Notably, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced Bharat Ratna award for two former Prime Ministers including PV Narasimha Rao and Charan Singh and renowned scientist Dr MS Swaminathan. Expressing gratitude to PM Modi, PV Manohar Rao said that he was very thankful to the Prime Minister for the distinguished honour to former PM Narasimha Rao. He said that not just his family & members were elated & ecstatic over the top honours but many within the party are also overjoyed. "I am thankful to PM Modi for acknowledging Narasimha Rao's exceptional contribution to the nation and awarding him Bharat Ratna," he said. On a closing note, Manohar Rao said that he along with the family members are now preparing a big celebration. Narasimha Rao was India's Prime Minister from 1991 to 1996 and is the man who opened India's economy to the world, heralding strong economic growth. He is widely credited for initiating key economic reforms in the country. He along with the then Finance Minister Manmohan Singh governed at a challenging time and steered the nation towards prosperity. --IANS mukesh/dan New Delhi, Feb 9 : Former PhonePe CEO Amit Narang's fintech startup Paymart on Friday said that it has partnered with five Indian banks to offer its innovative virtual, cardless, and hardware-less cash withdrawal service. Paymart has partnered with five prominent banks, including IDBI Bank, Indian Bank, Jammu & Kashmir Bank, and Karur Vyasa Bank, to roll out this service nationwide. The company is also in advanced discussions with four additional banks for further collaboration. "Our future-ready technology, coupled with direct connectivity to banks' Core Banking Systems, positions us as a versatile Cardless Switch, complementing existing card operators and paving the way for a more inclusive and accessible banking ecosystem," Paymart founder and CEO Narang said in a statement. The startup plans to launch pilot programmes with its partner banks in February/March, with a phased nationwide rollout slated for April/May 2024. It successfully piloted the virtual ATM service with IDBI Bank for over six months. The company said that the virtual ATM service will empower local shopkeepers, converting them into essential hubs for cash withdrawals without the need for traditional ATM machines or other hardware. Paymart also said that it entered into a partnership with CSC e-Governance Services India Ltd to further expand the reach of its virtual ATM service. --IANS shs/vd Arjun Rampal says, he never went away, has become selective with scripts. Image Source: IANS News Mumbai, Feb 9 : Actor Arjun Rampal, who is gearing up for the release of his upcoming action film 'Crakk', has said that he never went away from the silver screen. Furnishing the reason behind his limited presence on the big screen, the actor said that he has become very selective about what to take up. In Hindi cinema, Arjun was last seen in 'Dhaakad' in which he essayed the role of a villain locking horns with Kangana Ranaut's character of Agent Agni. This time around, Arjun is set to square off against Vidyut Jammwal in 'Crakk' as the former essays the role of an antagonist in the film. The film also stars Nora Fatehi and Amy Jackson. Talking to the media on Friday about his "return" to silver screens in Hindi cinema, the 'Rock On!!' actor said: "I never went away, I've always been here. It's just that I choose my films judiciously because hasty decisions often don't turn out well. I want to ensure that whatever work I do, it connects with the audience and to be able to sketch up a good performance I need to commit myself fully to the script and the character." He also spoke about playing the villain in his upcoming film as he said: "An antagonist too is a human being, they have their own emotions, their complexities and a cracking point. To find that emotion is very important for me. I spent days with the team understanding the philosophy of this character. I'm so glad it turned out well and I hope the audience too give their love to this film and my character." Produced by Vidyut Jammwal & Action Hero Films, the film, written and directed by Aditya Datt, is set to hit theatres on February 23, 2024. San Francisco, Feb 9 : Photo-sharing social media platform Pinterest has announced its next third-party ad integration with Google, as it reached an all-time record of 498 million monthly active users globally. Pinterest CEO Bill Ready said that the partnership will focus on monetising several of its "currently unmonetised international markets" by enabling ads to be served on Pinterest via Google's Ad Manager. "We went live a couple of weeks ago, and this is starting to ramp. Third-party ad demand is scaling as we anticipated," Ready said during the company's Q4 earnings call. Pinterest has approximately 80 per cent of its users outside the US, but only 20 per cent of its revenue. "We're quite excited about the partnership with Google as particularly for those unmonetised markets. We think it can help us to accelerate the average revenue per user (ARPU) journey for those markets and bring more relevant content and actionable content to users in those markets," said the CEO. Google is the second third-party ad partner for Pinterest after Amazon signed a multi-year deal with the company last year. "We're quite pleased with the way the Amazon partnership is progressing. And the Google partnership, with the focus on our unmonetised or undermonetised international markets, we think, will be quite additive as well," said Ready. Global MAUs hit another all-time record of 498 million, growing 11 per cent, accelerating from last quarter and growing sequentially in all of the geographic regions. "Q4 revenue of $981 million grew 12 per cent, marking continued double-digit revenue growth in the second half of this year," said the company. "And while growing revenue and engagement, we continue to demonstrate operational efficiency and disciplined expense management, resulting in Q4 adjusted EBITDA of $365 million or a 37 per cent margin, up more than 1,400 basis points from last year," Pinterest said. New Delhi, Feb 9 : Tech billionaire Elon Musk on Friday said that he plans to discontinue his phone number and use only social media platform X for messages, audio and video calls. "In a few months, I will discontinue my phone number and only use X for texts and audio/video calls," Musk wrote on X. Musk's move is seen as an effort to promote the audio and video calling capabilities of X. These features were initially released in October of last year. Since then, Musk has been actively pushing for X to become an all-encompassing app. Last year, the app launched a preliminary version of its audio and video calling functionality, which was made available to select users. Last month, the microblogging platform rolled out the feature to make audio and video calls directly from the app for Android users. Reacting to Musk's post, several users shared their thoughts. "Elon in 2027 - I am no longer using my phone to text or for audio visual. I am using my brainwaves and neural flonk link 47.2," a user wrote. "Will it be encrypted or will the alphabet agencies be listening," another user said. One more user mentioned, "Where will you receive OTPs for bank transactions?". Meanwhile, X has topped Apple's App Store charts in terms of downloads. "X is now the #1 most downloaded app of any kind!," Musk posted. Amaravati/New Delhi, Feb 9 : Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his chambers in Parliament on Friday and requested him to expedite several issues related to the state. Reminding the Prime Minister that the Finance Ministry has already agreed to remove component-wise expenditure ceiling on Polavaram Project and release Rs 12,911 crore for its first phase completion, he urged him to get Cabinet approval for the two pending issues. According to a statement from Chief Ministeras Office (CMO), Jagan Mohan Reddy also urged the Prime Minister to release, on a priority basis, Rs 17,144 crore for speedy completion of the first phase of Polavaram project, the proposal of which was pending in the Jal Shakti Ministry. He further sought immediate steps from the Centre to ensure the release of Rs 7,230 crore arrears by the Telangana government to APGENCO for the power supplied to it for three years from 2014. The Chief Minister also urged him to grant special status to Andhra Pradesh and implement other assurances given at the time of bifurcation as it helps the state attract investments for industrial development and improve employment opportunities. He further sought Centreas financial support for the 17 new medical colleges out of which classes have commenced in five colleges and the rest are under construction. The Chief Minister also urged the Prime Minister to grant necessary funds for the 55-km six-lane highway that connects Visakhapatnam city with Bhogapuram International airport via Bhogapuram, Bhimili, Rishi Konda, and Visakhapatnam Port. He also further urged that the Visakhapatnam-Kurnool high speed corridor proposed in the Andhra Pradesh Bifurcation Act be extended to Bengaluru via Kadapa, and as part of this, new railway line should be laid connecting Kadapa, Pulivendula, Mudigubba, Sri Satya Sai Prasanthi Nilayam and Hindupur for providing proper connectivity to the backward Rayalaseema. The Chief Minister also appealed that the Visakha Metro Rail Project be approved at the earliest. --IANS ms/vd In the early 2000s, Berkshire Hathaway Inc. Vice Chairman Charlie Munger made a daring yet calculated financial move. He entrusted a significant portion of his familys fortune $88 million to Li Lu, often referred to as the Chinese Warren Buffett. This bold investment, though carrying its share of risk, not only remained secure but also experienced substantial growth. It is now estimated at approximately $400 million. We made unholy good returns for a long, long time, Munger said. That $88 million has become four or five times that. Dont Miss: Their first encounter took place at a mutual friends residence in Los Angeles shortly after Lis college graduation. Munger initially came across as somewhat reserved, absorbed in his thoughts rather than fully immersed in conversation. Despite this initial impression, their discourse was imbued with Mungers concise yet profoundly insightful words of wisdom. It wasnt until seven years later, during a Thanksgiving lunch in 2003, that Munger and Li engaged in what Li described as a long heart-to-heart conversation. Impressed by Lis prowess in the realm of investments, Munger backed him with personal funds when Li embarked on a new fund venture in 2004. Lis investment track record boasts notable achievements, including Kweichow Moutai, a liquor brand that has surged in value over the past two decades and ranks among Chinas largest listed companies. Its even been named Chinas national liquor. Despite being amid the pandemic, Kweichow Moutai had a fantastic year. In 2020, its stock on the Shanghai Stock Exchange rose by about 70%. The company, which is partly owned by the government and partly publicly traded, is Chinas most valuable business outside of the tech sector. Its worth more than the countrys four largest banks. Story continues Trending: This Los Angeles startup is closing a real estate market gap worth hundreds of billions and you can invest in it with as little as $100. Munger commended Lis astute decision-making, noting, It was real cheap, four to five times earnings, and Li Lu just backed up the truck, bought all he could and made a killing. The investment strategy Li employed hinges on his knack for identifying undervalued prospects. This approach underscores that sometimes, it is the less conventional investments that harbor the greatest potential for substantial growth. Lis ability to recognize opportunities when companies are undervalued has allowed him to unlock exceptional value over time. Lis most renowned investment is in BYD Co. Ltd., a manufacturer of batteries and electric vehicles. Li initially invested in BYD in 2002, a move that laid the groundwork for both Buffett and Munger to follow suit six years later. Munger, acknowledging the extraordinary success, described the early investment in BYD as a miracle. In a CNBC interview, he said that BYD has outpaced Tesla Inc. in China, a statement that contrasts with Buffetts views on the electric vehicle industry. Buffett has expressed concerns about excessive competition. While Munger placed immense trust in Li, considering him the sole outsider he has ever entrusted with his finances, he also predicted that Li would eventually assume a significant role at Berkshire Hathaway. Read Next: Original story found here. "ACTIVE INVESTORS' SECRET WEAPON" Supercharge Your Stock Market Game with the #1 "news & everything else" trading tool: Benzinga Pro - Click here to start Your 14-Day Trial Now! Get the latest stock analysis from Benzinga? This article Charlie Munger Handed Over His Family Fortune To The 'Chinese Warren Buffett' Who Flipped It into Half A Billion Dollars 'We Made Unholy Good Returns For A Long, Long Time' originally appeared on Benzinga.com 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved. New Delhi, Feb 9 : Popular social media platform Snapchat on Friday suffered a major outage globally, including in India, with users reporting that they were unable to send messages, including texts and snaps, to each other. According to the outage monitor website DownDetector, over 76 per cent of people reported problems while using the application, 19 per cent with login, and 5 per cent while using the website. Numerous users went on to X and Reddit to report the issue. "People turning airplane mode on and off before realising Snapchat server is down. #snapchatdown," a user wrote. "Me overthinking on why he's not replying to me meanwhile Snapchat is down," another user said. One more user mentioned, "I removed all the cache and restarted my phone for Snapchat only to find out that Snapchat is down". Snapchat is back online, and users can now use the platform to send and receive texts, according to Android Authority. Snapchatas Support account on X did not mention any details about the outage, although the profile replied to user reports with automated messages. Moscow, Feb 9 : Russian President Vladimir Putin has said Germany does not resume the operation of the surviving pipe of Nord Stream 2, although Moscow is ready to supply gas through it, local media reported. "The matter is not only about Nord Stream 1, which was blown up. Nord Stream 2 was damaged, but one pipe is safe and sound, and gas can be supplied to Europe through it, but Germany does not open it," Putin said in an interview with US media personality Tucker Carlson, published on Friday. "There is another route through Poland, the Yamal-Europe pipeline, it is also possible to carry a large flow," he said, adding that, however, Poland closed it, TASS reported. The Nord Stream pipelines, which transported natural gas from Russia to European markets via Germany, were severely damaged in September 2022 after blasts in the Baltic Sea, Xinhua news agency reported. Mumbai, Feb 9 : Actress Nora Fatehi, who essays the role of an influencer in her upcoming theatrical movie 'Crakk', feels that it's the era of influencers currently. Mumbai, Feb 9 (IANS) Actress Nora Fatehi, who essays the role of an influencer in her upcoming theatrical movie aCrakka, feels that itas the era of influencers currently. The actress along with the starcast of aCrakka spoke with the media at the filmas trailer launch at a multiplex in the Andheri area of Mumbai. About influencers on social media, the actress said that it takes a lot to be an influencer and itas a lucrative career choice given the amount of money it brings in and the flexibility that it offers. Since the rise of social media platforms and the advent of 4G, the content has revolutionised. Features like Reels have not just given many influencers and digital content creators, it has also given a boost to Indiaas creative economy as every creator is finding their audience. "It's the era of influencers. Today, every kid wants to be an influencer, it's a real job and people make a lot of money from it. But, it's not an easy job. You need to have a personality that will attract people to you. My character in the film is named Alia and she has a unique personality that adds a different dimension to the narrative," Nora said. Produced by Vidyut Jammwal & Action Hero Films, the film, written and directed by Aditya Datt, is set to hit theatres on February 23, 2024. Toronto, Feb 9 : Two teenagers have been arrested in connection with a shooting incident that occurred last week, targeting the home of a Sikh activist linked to pro-Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a designated terrorist in India who was shot dead in Canada last year. Multiple gunshots were fired in the incident, which occurred just after 1:20 am on February 1 at the South Surrey home of Simranjeet Singh. The Surrey unit of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) said on Thursday that their Serious Crime Unit executed a search warrant on a residence in the 7700-block of 140 Street on February 6. "Police seized three firearms and multiple electronic devices during the search. Two 16-year-old males from Surrey were arrested for careless use of a firearm and discharge a firearm with intent," Surrey RCMP Corporal Sarbjit K Sangha said in a statement. While the two have been released without charges, police said that investigators continue to gather information on the case to determine the motivation behind the shooting. "Surrey RCMP takes threats and acts of violence seriously and we work closely with victims to ensure their continued safety," Sangha said. According to CBC news channel, a car was heavily damaged in the gunfire, and there were multiple bullet holes in the house itself. Moninder Singh, a spokesperson for the British Columbia Gurdwaras Council identified Simranjeet as a "friend" of Nijjar, a designated terrorist in India, whose killing outside a Sikh temple in Surrey in June last year triggered a diplomatic row between New Delhi and Ottawa. Jalandhar-born Nijjar moved to Canada in 1997 where he worked as a plumber and led the outlawed militant group, Khalistan Tiger Force. Moninder told CBC that community members believe Simranjeet's links with Nijjar might have played a part in the shooting. He added that the firing came just days after Simranjeet helped organise a pro-Khalistan protest at the Indian consulate in Vancouver on January 26. According to Moninder, Simranjeet was in touch with the RCMP to report being followed after protests and fears for his life. Bhubaneswar, Feb 9 : In a jolt to the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD), former minister and sitting MLA from Telkoi, Premananda Nayak has resigned from the primary membership of the party. "I am resigning from the primary membership of 'BIJU JANATA DAL.' A valuable time, that I spent with you will inspire me to serve my constituency better," Nayak wrote in a letter addressed to BJD President and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik here. Speaking to the media, Nayak on Friday said that he was being sidelined in the party for the last few years. Though he had sent his resignation letter to the BJD President via email in October last year, none from the party reached out to him to discuss his grievances. Nayak said that earlier he could meet the party President to discuss his issues as well as various concerns related to his constituency, however, Patnaik became inaccessible to party MLAs after 2019. This apart, Nayak expressed his displeasure over the party's decision to allow one of his main opponents to join the BJD before the Panchayat elections. This also created bad blood within the party organisation, he said. Nayak won from the Telkoi constituency twice in 2009 and 2019 and was also the Minister of State (Ind), Skill Development & Technical Education between 2019 and 2022. Dakshina Kannada, : Feb 9 (IANS) The VHP on Friday warned the Karnataka Government that if the Hanuman flag removed by the authorities was not reinstated, the Siddaramaiah Government would be responsible for the consequences. Addressing a gathering during a protest to condemn the removal of a Hanuman flag from a mast in Keragodu Village in Mandya district, VHP leader Sharan Pumpwell stated that if the flag was not reinstated, the Hindu organisation and Bajrang Dal would launch a 'Keragodu Chalo' agitation. "All members of the VHP and Bajrang Dal will congregate in Keragodu Village. Even if cases are filed against us or we face resistance, we will reinstate the Hanuman flag at any cost. The state government would be responsible for the consequences," he warned. "Today, the recital of Hanuman Chalisa was done in every district of the state. The Hanuman flag was removed all of a sudden following the orders of CM Siddaramaiah. The flag used to be hoisted there for decades without controversy. For vote bank politics, the National Flag was hoisted there by removing the Hanuman flag. The villagers are saying that they will install another flag post," he stated. Sharan stated that there is an anti-Hindu government in the state who used the ploy of banning the Bajrang Dal to win Assembly elections. They were able to make Muslim voters happy but till date the government is not able to ban Bajrang Dal and it won't be possible in future as well, he added. Hyderabad, Feb 9 : Former Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao's family has expressed their delight over the Centre conferring Bharat Ratna on him posthumously with his daughter and Telangana legislator Surabhi Vani Devi observing that this will further enhance the award's value. The member of Telangana Legislative Council welcomed the decision of the Centre and termed this as a matter of pride for people of Telangana. "Today is a historic day, a happy moment. A good day which will be written in history with golden letters," she said. "We are delighted that the first Telugu Prime Minister born on the soil of Telangana has been conferred with Bharat Ratna," she told media persons. She recalled that PV, as Narasimha Rao was popularly known, was the first leader from South India to become the Prime Minister. The MLC belonging to Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) said though there was delay in conferring the highest civilian award on Narasimha Rao, they were happy that it was finally announced. She recalled that people were the first priority for her late father. "He believed in finding permanent solutions to the problems. It may be human resources, economy or foreign relations, he always looked for permanent solutions," she said. Surbahi also recalled how the late former Prime Minister initiated the economic reforms when the Indian economy was in a very bad shape. She said the BRS government under the leadership of K. Chandrasekhar Rao organised the birth centenary celebrations of Narasimha Rao on a big scale. She claimed that the celebrations helped people know various aspects of his personality. The MLC thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for rising above politics to confer Bharat Ratna on Narasimha Rao. She said the decision reflects his values. Narasimha Rao, who also served as the Chief Minister of undivided Andhra Pradesh and as a Central minister, was known as a scholar, statesman, a polyglot and an author. Vani Devi, who was elected MLC in 2021, was the first member of Narasimha Rao's to be elected to the legislature in Telangana. Narasimha Rao's eldest son P.V. Ranga Rao had served as minister in undivided Andhra Pradesh. A Congress leader, he served as Education Minister in the cabinet of Kotla Vijaya Bhaskara Reddy (1992-94). He was twice elected to the Andhra Pradesh Assembly from Hanamkonda in Warangal district of Telangana region. He also served as a member of the Legislative Council. Narasimha Rao's other son Rajeshwar Rao was elected to Lok Sabha from Secunderabad in 1996. --IANS ms/pgh Paris, Feb 9 : The French offices of Chinese tech giant Huawei were searched this week, the company confirmed on Friday, saying it is fully cooperating with the authorities, a media report said. A French judicial source said that the raids had been carried out as part of a preliminary probe launched by the financial prosecutor's office over alleged "breach of probity", a broad term concerning offenses such as acts of corruption, favouritism and influence peddling, CNN reported, The source did not provide any further details about the investigation. A preliminary investigation does not imply any wrongdoing. The Shenzhen-based firm said the search had taken place on Tuesday. "Huawei has been in France for over 20 years, and has been in compliance with the laws and regulations applicable in the country. While Huawei France does not wish to comment on an ongoing investigation, the company remains confident about its conclusions," a company spokesperson said, CNN reported. In 2020, the company had announced that it would build a factory in France making wireless communications equipment, with a 200 million euro ($215 million) investment and manufacturing 1 billion euro ($1.08 billion) worth of products annually. A number of European countries later either banned Huawei from their 5G telecom networks, or restricted the company's role in the networks. Speaking to the French public radio in December, Minggang Zhang, Deputy General Manager of Huawei France, said the factory would begin operations by the end of 2025 in the Alsace region, CNN reported. New Delhi, Feb 9 : Former late Prime Minister Narasimha Rao's nephew Madan Mohan on Friday said that the announcement of Bharat Ratna to the late Prime Minister has resulted in wave of joyous celebrations across the entire stretch of Andhra and Telangana. Madan Mohan -- in an exclusive interview with IANS -- said that such honour for the former PM Narasimha Rao was much-awaited because of his exemplary and visionary leadership in 'turbulent times of 1990s'. Narasimha Rao's nephew thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for bestowing first non-Congress PM with the Bharat Ratna, 'something which could have been done much ago'. "Immensely thankful to PM Modi for conferring nation's highest civilian award to Narasimha Rao," said the son of PV Manohar Rao, ex-PM's younger brother. Madan Mohan, who has been a journalist for 30 years, also heaped praises on Modi government for identifying the grassroots heroes and lauding their contribution in nation's growth. He said that under the Modi-led NDA government, many people with common background are now getting acknowledged and felicitated at national level. Tearing into the grand old party, he said that Congress neglected Narasimha Rao's contributions and it had to pay a heavy price for this in subsequent years. Madan Mohan, who has worked with diverse media organisations for almost three decades, also had a word of advice for the grand old party. "Congress needs to learn from the incumbent Modi government," he said, while inferring to its 'archaic' ways as against NDA's reform-driven governance. Earlier, P.V. Manohar Rao, ex-PM Narasimha Rao's brother also berated the Congress for dithering over Bharat Ratna award to the 'man who brought reforms' to India. Speaking to IANS, he said that it took more than 20 years to award Bharat Ratna despite Manmohan Singh-led UPA government staying in power from 2004-2014. Narasimha Rao along with former PM Chaudhary Charan Singh and renowned scientist Swaminathan were picked for nation's highest civilian honour, PM Modi announced via his X handle today. Notably, Narasimha Rao is widely credited for bringing reforms to the nation in 1990s, beset by economic crisis. His six-time Parliamentary tenure came to an end in 2004 after his demise at the age of 83. As global powers vie for control over critical mineral trade routes, China plans to spend US$1 billion to refurbish a key railway line connecting Zambia's copper belt region with the Tanzanian port of Dar es Salaam under its Belt and Road Initiative. On Wednesday, China's ambassador to Zambia Du Xiaohui handed over a proposal to rehabilitate the Tazara railway to Zambian Transport Minister Frank Tayali, saying the US$1 billion investment would be done through a public-private partnership (PPP) over the coming years. Du said China would work with its "Zambian brothers and Tanzanian sisters" to strengthen cooperation and benefit the three countries. 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. "The Chinese side wants to use the PPP model to invest over US$1 billion in the coming years," Du said. A team assembled in December has completed a business and technical inspection of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority, the Tazara's operator, and issued a report on Wednesday. Tayali said he had been briefed about the report and "was particularly excited that the Chinese experts will work alongside Zambian labour". When the Tanzanian and Zambian presidents visited China in 2022 and 2023 respectively, Chinese President Xi Jinping promised to support the upgrade of the railway, which was originally built in the 1970s and funded by the Chinese government under Mao Zedong as a foreign aid project. Xi said the Tanzania-Zambia Railway had become "a symbol of China-Africa friendship". The US, European Union and China are all backing rail projects linking Zambia's copper belt to African ports. Photo: Getty Images alt=The US, European Union and China are all backing rail projects linking Zambia's copper belt to African ports. Photo: Getty Images> Story continues China last year appointed the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), a subsidiary of China Railway Construction Corporation, to negotiate a concession to operate the Tanzania-Zambia Railway line. In December, the CCECC appointed an 11-member team led by Peng Danyang, managing director of the Ethiopia-Djibouti Railway, to carry out an inspection from Dar es Salaam to Kapiri Mposhi in Zambia with the aim of assessing Tazara's operational and business model. The Ethiopia-Djibouti Railway operates under a public-private partnership model through collaboration between the governments of Ethiopia and Djibouti and CCECC subsidiary Railway Operation Limited. Tim Zajontz, a research fellow at the Centre for International and Comparative Politics at Stellenbosch University in South Africa, told the Post in November that Chinese PPP investment in Tazara was likely to take the form of a rehabilitate-operate-transfer concession, with a probable duration of 20 to 25 years. Under this model, governments allow private entities to rehabilitate and operate a project for a certain period before transferring it back to the government. "The Chinese investors have made it unmistakably clear in previous negotiations that Tazara is no longer considered an aid project but that it must be a commercially viable venture," said Zajontz, who has written about the planned privatisation of Tazara in his book The Political Economy of China's Infrastructure Development in Africa. "The devil remains in the details and an agreement depends on whether the investors and the shareholding governments can agree on the terms of the PPP," he added. China is keen to use the Tazara rail line to transport mining exports from Zambia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The refurbished Tazara railway will compete directly with a railroad backed by the US and EU to link Zambia's copper belt and the mineral-rich DRC to the Lobito port on Angola's Atlantic coast. Brussels and Washington announced in late October they would fund the rail project to connect the resource-rich region of Zambia to an existing line to the Lobito port. The US and EU are eager to secure minerals that are vital for making batteries and advanced electronics - including cobalt, which comes from the DRC and Zambia. Most of these minerals are now exported to China for processing. China's involvement in the Tazara railway began in the 1970s, when Beijing was facing its own financial difficulties. At the time, Zambia was desperate for a railway link to the Tanzanian coast to transport copper, its main export. Neighbouring white-controlled Rhodesia, now Zimbabwe, had cut Zambia's only route to the sea in response to the postcolonial transfer of power to Zambia's black majority. China stepped in when Western countries declined to fund a new railway, building Tazara for about 1 billion yuan (US$140.5 million). From 1970 to 1975, about 50,000 Chinese workers built 1,860km (1,155 miles) of track stretching from Zambia's copper belt to Dar es Salaam on the Indian Ocean. It remains China's biggest overseas project to date and succeeded in boosting Beijing's political capital during the Cold War. 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. Whether a resolution professional can be subject to prosecution under the PC Act, SC seeks CBIs response. Image Source: IANS News New Delhi, Feb 9 : The Supreme Court on Friday agreed to examine a plea seeking transfer of a criminal case against Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy from Hyderabad to either Madhya Pradesh or Chhattisgarh. Issuing a notice on the transfer petition, a Bench of Justices BR Gavai and Sandeep Mehta sought the response of CM Revanth Reddy and others within four weeks. The matter is likely to be taken up for further hearing on March 11. As per the transfer plea filed under Section 406 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), Revanth Reddy and other accused were caught red handed by Hyderabad's Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) when they offered a bribe of Rs. 50 lakh as advance to Elvis Stephenson to abstain from casting his vote for the June 2015 biennial election or vote in favour of the TDP. "The Accused No.1 (Revanth Reddy) is the prime Accused in Crime No. 11/ACB- City Range-I/Hyd/2015 and is the present Chief and Home Minister for the State of Telangana and the Directorate of Prosecution of Anti- Corruption Bureau is answerable and directly under the control of Accused No.1," the plea said. It added that Revanth Reddy can directly influence the de facto complainant and officers by pressurising them to defer or resile from their earlier statements. It added that there is every possibility that the officers and de facto complainant will depose falsely under threat. The petition said that there cannot be a free and fair trial in the case at Hyderabad or any other court in Telangana and no prejudice will be caused to respondents-accused if the trial is transferred to District and Sessions Judge in Madhya Pradesh's Bhopal. New Delhi, Feb 9 : President Droupadi Murmu on Friday said that strong, stable and prosperous Bangladesh is in India's interest. "There is immense political will on both sides to see the relationship grow," the President said during her meeting with the Bangladesh Foreign Minister. Bangladesh Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud had called on the President at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Friday. The President also conveyed her felicitations to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for her fourth consecutive term as Prime Minister of Bangladesh. The President also expressed confidence that under her leadership, Bangladesh will achieve new milestones of progress and prosperity. The President expressed satisfaction at the progress made by both the countries in almost all areas of bilateral cooperation, such as border and security, trade, connectivity, power, infrastructure, people to people contacts etc. She said that both sides have been reviving rail, road and waterways that traditionally linked the people and economies on both sides, and are also simultaneously creating new connectivity links. New Delhi, Feb 9 : She says it has been exciting to smell the danger in their voice. That it has been an infuriating journey too -- for whenever she thought she had a hold on the content, someone would parachute in. There would then be chaos, albeit a grateful one. There seems to be an initial relief when poet Arundhathi Subramaniam says that the book 'Wild Women, Seekers, Protagonists and Goddesses in Sacred Indian Poetry' is finally complete after five years, and will be released soon by Penguin. But then immediately after that, there is a pause -- as if she is mourning a loss. "It was something that never got over. And this is something I have been wanting to do for really long. I also did a book in between, and I wrote one on Bhakti too. 'Eating God' was an important book in that aspect a" it touched people. But I already believe the seeds of 'Wild Women' were sown. Of course, it is lovely to read about Kabir but where are the women? Have the women's voices been muted? Maybe we have tamed and domesticated them... it did not seem they were women on journeys. I wanted to go back and rediscover the rawest realms and smells. It has been such an endless process but so satisfying to listen to their feral sensuality, and their searing questions about custodians of gender and faith. It was time to tune into their brazenness, their heartbreaking longing. Not just for their sake but for ours too," she tells IANS. In the book, the poet brings together haunting voices of, by and for women across the Indian subcontinent poetry of ancient Buddhist nuns, Bhakti and Sufi mystics, tantrikas and Vedantins. There are women here, and men singing as women, and both raising their voices in praise of the sacred feminine. Even as we start talking about gender in spirituality, she feels that given the goddesses part of it, they represent the many different aspects of creation and it is in this space that people are comfortable. with the duality. But as soon as it is time to arrive at a definite truth, the goddesses vanish," smiles this Sahitya Akademi Award and International Piero Bigongiari Prize (Italy) winning poet. She insists it is the magically messy plurality of the subcontinent that never fails to fascinate her and she wanted to express this sense of wonder and how many living spiritual parts exist in the country -- and there are so many women on such different paths -- casting off clothes, house makers, mystics, Sufis and devotees. "And to my mind what makes them my sisterhood is the fact that they are women who ask inconvenient questions and do not settle for easy answers. Frankly, it is about reclaiming what has always existed and reminding us of a messy and unruly existence." Subramaniam, who was Head of Dance and 'Chauraha' at the National Centre for the Performing Arts in Mumbai, and has been Editor of the India domain of the Poetry International Web was drawn to the Bhakti poets when her own spiritual journey took on a certain urgency. "They took my breath away with their irreverence, their hoarse longing, their full-throated vulnerability. I loved the gumption with which they addressed their gods a" complaining to them, quarrelling with them, making love to them, threatening to devour and even demolish them!" In her formative years, living in Mumbai had an impact -- she had living poets around her who became a living legacy. "I was definitely aware. I had living poets around me. They became a living legacy and you could aspire to be that but at the same time it was not easy, you could not easily become a part of this club, and it was not inviting. But yes, there were conversations around craft and not just people asking questions about how to get published. there was something heady about the license to spend hours discussing line lengths, commas and the nature of the cliche with others who shared this passion for verbal precision," says the author of 13 books of poetry and prose who was shortlisted for the T.S. Eliot Prize in 2015. But even when she is ready to give up the badge of 'Bombay poet', the badge does not leave her. "That suggests a deeper sense of kinship than I am probably aware of," she smiles. The poet, who was recently at the Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF) 2024 for the session. 'Invoking the Muse: Poetry Hour' stresses that such festivals do help in making the poet visible and also boost book sales. "Also, let me add, poetry does sell." And her process? Well, she does admit to having 'twitchy fingers' but says that sometimes too much importance is given to sitting down and writing. Stressing that it is important to be in touch with one's silences, she recalls: "The upcoming book would lurch and halt -- and both are important. Just because one writes every day does not mean you are creating something profound or significant, it just means you're exercising every day." While she is still "recovering" from Wild Women, there are poems that she wants to go back to, "But as I said, it is important to stay still too." Kolkata, Feb 9 : The Trinamool Congress on Friday moved a Privilege Motion against six BJP legislators, including the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in West Bengal Assembly Suvendu Adhikari. The main charge against these 6 BJP legislators is that they were responsible for creating a ruckus in the House when the "state song" was being played on Thursday. The "state song" was played before West Bengal Minister of State for Finance (Independent charge) Chandrima Bhattacharya placed the budget proposals for the financial year 2024-25 in the Assembly. Apart from Suvendu Adhikari, the other five legislators against whom the Privilege Motion was brought, included Agnimitra Paul, Mihir Goswami, Shikha Chattopadhyay, Tapasi Mondal and Bankim Ghosh. On behalf of the Trinamool Congress, the state Parliamentary Affairs Minister Sovandeb Chattopadhyay and the party's Chief Whip in the Assembly Nirmal Ghosh jointly moved the Privilege Motion. The LoP said that this was the sixth time a Privilege Motion was brought against him. "Such motions will not be able to stop BJP from raising matters relating to public concerns on the floor of the House," he said. Nirmal Ghosh said that on Thursday, the BJP legislators made their intentions clear that all they wanted was to create hurdles for the state finance minister while she was reading out the budget proposals. "So they started creating ruckus within the House from the beginning and they did not even stop when the tune of the state song was being played in the House. So as a mark of protest we moved the Privilege Motion on Friday," Ghosh said. Lucknow, Feb 9 : Around 650 endangered freshwater Indian tent turtles, rescued from poachers, were released into the Gomti river in Bakshi-ka-talab area of Lucknow district. The step came on the order of the court of the chief judicial magistrate (CJM). The rare species of turtles were rescued from the poachers on the tip of from an informer by special task force (STF) and the Forest Department on February 5. On information, 309 turtles were safely rescued from a hotel in Charbagh and 360 turtles were rescued from the smugglers near a mall on Shaheed Path. Some of the rescued turtles were injured and kept under observation for two days. After medical examination, the turtles were released in the Gomti river near Chandrika Devi temple in Kathwara village. The rescued turtles are found especially in the Gomti river. District Forest Officer Ravi Singh said: "The turtles are a protected species. People should avoid taming such species, which will protect these animals. If people are caught with these animals, they can be dealt with by law and get seven years imprisonment under the Wildlife Conservation Act." Shailendra Singh of Turtle Survival Alliance said: "The wild animals cannot be made pets at home and can contain some kind of infectious diseases. Turtles are an endangered species and if people will stop buying turtles or any other endangered animals it will save the lives of the animals and smuggling will also be stopped." On the release of turtles in the Gomti river, he said that turtles can survive in their natural habitat only. If they are released in other rivers and water bodies, it will be tough for them to survive, he added. The Indian tent-shaped turtles (Pangshura tentoria circumdata) are found in rivers, streams, lakes and ponds of India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan with mud or sand bottoms. They feed on the vegetation found in the rivers. The turtles are listed as avulnerablea by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Bengaluru, Feb 9 : A minor Dalit girl was allegedly murdered by a youth belonging to an upper caste as an act of vengeance in the Anugondanahalli police station limits in Bengaluru Rural district on Friday. The ninth standard girl was missing for three days and her body was found by shepherd boys on the outskirts of the village on Thursday. According to the police, the parents of the girl have stated that one Nithin, an upper caste boy from the village, had teased her 20 days ago. The girl had informed her parents about the incident. Though they came forward to lodge a police complaint, the elders of the village intervened and had them compromise. Three days after the compromise, the girl went missing. The parents have alleged that not able to reconcile to the fact that the girl raised her voice over the eve teasing, Nithin had killed her. Nithin had attempted to slit his throat after the murder came to light. The Anugondanahalli police have taken up the case for investigation. Talking to IANS, Bengaluru Rural SP Mallikarjun Baladandin stated on Friday that the accused youth is not in a position to speak. He has been hospitalised and is under police surveillance. "Once he recovers we will be able to verify the allegations against him and ascertain the exact cause of the murder." Hyderabad, Feb 9 : Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Friday said conferring Bharat Ratna to former Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao is a proud moment for all Indians. Speaking in the state Assembly on Friday, he expressed happiness over the decision to confer the highest civilian award on him posthumously and congratulated his family. "Though belated it is a proud moment for all Indians," he said, recalling the contributions made by the former Prime Minister. Revanth Reddy said PV was the only Telugu 'bidda' (son) and Telangana bidda who went on to become the Prime Minister. "PV brought economic reforms to take India ahead on the path of development and enabled it to compete with other countries of the world," the Telangana CM said. He said PV earlier fought against Nizam and the repression by razakars to play a key role in liberation of Hyderabad state. Revanth Reddy said on his behalf and on behalf of the Assembly and people of the state, he congratulated his family members, supporters and Congress leaders who supported his political rise at every step. He especially mentioned the name of Sonia Gandhi saying she helped him become the Prime Minister. Earlier, the Chief Minister posted on X that Bharat Ratna for PV is a matter of pride. He stated that Bharat Ratna for the PV, who was an economic expert and a polyglot, filled the hearts of all of us children of Telangana with joy. He also hailed Bharat Ratna for former Prime Minister Charan Singh, L. K. Advani, Karpoori Thakur and eminent agriculture scientist Swaminathan. Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, industries minister D. Sridhar Babu and other ministers and leaders of Congress party expressed their delight over Bharat Ratna for Narasimha Rao. Mumbai, Feb 9 : Thousands of Shiv Sena (UBT) workers, prominent leaders from different political parties and commoners attended the funeral of former BMC Corporator Abhishek V Ghosalkar, here on Friday evening. Ghosalkar was shot dead on Thursday night and his mortal remains were brought to his home in Borivali east after the autopsy on Friday morning. Hundreds of mourners had already started arriving at his house by morning and later SS-UBT leaders also came to pay their last respects. Among those who reached the Ghosalkar family home to offer condolences included SS-UBT President and ex-Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, his wife Rashmi, their son and ex-minister Aditya Thackeray, ex-ministers Anant Geete, Anil Parab, Diwakar Raote, and others. Besides, BJP leaders like Pravin Darekar, Sunil Raut, Prakash Surve, plus Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (SP) leaders who had close relations with the Ghosalkars also visited the family. Ghosalkaras wife Tejasvee was seen crying inconsolably while her minor daughter and other grieving family members stood beside his flower bedecked body. Later, the funeral procession started from the Ghosalkar home with several thousands waiting on both sides of the road joining the procession till it reached the BMCas Daulatnagar Hindu Crematorium where the last rites were performed. A former two-term Municipal Corporator from Dahisar area, Ghosalkar, 41, was fired upon at least thrice by a local goon Mauris Noronha at the latteras office in IC Colony during a Facebook Live session, sending shockwaves in the city. Moments later, Mauris ran up the mezzanine floor office and allegedly shot himself multiple times, dying on the spot, even as the murder-cum-suicide incident sparked off a massive political furore in the state. The ruling MahaYuti Government and the Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi hurled allegations at each other. The MVA splashed photos of goons seen hobnobbing with various ruling party leaders and termed it as a collapse of law and order in the state. As per information, the IC Colony Church authorities refused permission for Maurisa burial in the church graveyard, and his funeral is likely to take place at a BMC general cemetery near Mahalaxmi, later in the day. Chandigarh, Feb 9 : Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Friday expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for conferring the Bharat Ratna, the country's highest civilian award, upon former Prime Ministers Chaudhary Charan Singh and P.V. Narasimha Rao, and agricultural scientist M.S. Swaminathan. Narasimha Rao was the Prime Minister from 1991 to 1996 and is known for heralding the economic liberalisation of the country. Charan Singh, a champion for farmers' rights, served as the Prime Minister briefly in 1979, while Swaminathan, a renowned agriculture scientist, is known as the architect of India's green revolution. Khattar said, aIt is a matter of pride and honour for every Indian to recognise the exceptional contributions of these three distinguished individuals with the Bharat Ratna." He said Charan Singh consistently prioritised the interests of farmers and their fundamental issues, dedicating his entire life to the rights and welfare of the agricultural community. Even during the challenging period of Emergency, Charan Singh made significant contributions to upholding democracy in the country while actively promoting nation-building efforts. The Chief Minister said Narasimha Rao, during his tenure as Prime Minister, strengthened parliamentary traditions by reinforcing democratic values and extending respect to the opposition leaders. His significant role in opening India to the global market and fortifying the infrastructure for economic development remains noteworthy, Khattar said. He added that scientist Swaminathan dedicated himself to advancing modern agriculture and empowering farmers economically. "Swaminathanas remarkable contributions towards addressing the challenges of contemporary agriculture and supporting farmers have been exemplary. His visionary leadership not only revolutionised Indian agriculture, but also safeguarded the nation's food security and prosperity," Khattar said. Patna, Feb 9 : The constitutional crisis that arose due to the stand of Speaker Awadh Bihari Choudhary seems to be subsiding as the Bihar assembly secretariat has issued the list of Vidhan Sabha proceedings on February 12 and pointed out that the no confidence motion will take place after the speech of the governor. This development could be a big blow to RJD leader Lalu Prasad Yadav and his son Tejashwi Yadav who were thinking that they could delay the NDA government proving its majority in the House through Choudhary. Sources said that the secretary of the Bihar assembly refused to break the law despite the pressure applied by Choudhary. The secretary admitted that he received the notice about the motion on January 28 and as per the law 14 days are required to bring a no confidence motion. Hence the discussion on the no confidence motion will take place on February 12. Following the stand of the secretary, Awadh Bihari Choudhary eventually stepped back and signed the list of work on February 12. With this, on Day 1 of the budget session, the governor will address both the Houses followed by the discussion on the no confidence motion against the Speaker. If 38 MLAs support it, voting will take place. After that the Nitish Kumar government will prove its majority in the House. Choudhary will not occupy the chair during the floor test of the NDA government. Earlier, Choudhary claimed that he received notice of the no confidence motion against him on February 7 and as per the law, the no confidence motion cannot be brought against him till February 21. CLERMONT Dignitaries and officials with Orlando Health South Lake Hospital cut the ribbon on the new patient tower Thursday that almost doubles the size of the 147-bed hospital. Included among the gleaming white hallways, mezzanine and memorial garden are exam and procedure rooms for the Center for Women and Babies and several specialty practices of the newly named Orlando Health Womens Institute. Speakers included Susan McLean with Live Well Foundation of South Lake which contributed a $50 million grant to the $145 million project, and Lance Sewell, Orlando Health vice president. Karina Martin addresses the crowd at the Orlando Health South Lake Hospital ribbon cutting on Thursday. But the speaker who earned a rousing round of applause was Karina Martin, who praised the hospital for saving her life. About two years ago I was in postpartum when I had the worst headache of my life, she said, as her husband and three young children looked on. It was unbelievable. I couldnt answer the simplest questions. She had all the symptoms of a stroke one side was weak, her face was drooping, and her blood pressure was skyrocketing. To make matters worse, bad weather delayed the Air Care helicopter from taking off from Orlando. Eventually she was taken to Orlando Regional Medical Center, where she underwent a three-hour surgery, spent a month in the hospital and later signed up for the health care systems rehabilitation. Throughout the ordeal, staffers made sure to comfort her husband and children. I want to thank the incredible team, including Air Care. I am so happy to be here to celebrate with you. Sewell said planning for the expansion began five years ago, but it really began 31 years ago when we realized we needed to move from a postage stamp-sized facility in downtown Clermont to an orange grove. The old hospital was built in 1947. A new high-tech meeting room is called the Skytop Conference Room, a nod to the name of the grove that once occupied the site. Sewell, while giving a tour, pointed out several modern features, some of which came about with infection control lessons learned from the Covid pandemic. Curtains in the new intensive care unit have been replaced with a button that can turn transparent sliding glass rooms into a milky white screen for patient privacy. A nurses station computer will be placed between every two rooms. Story continues Designers created an airy mezzanine walkway on the second floor. Ceiling lights have been moved to the side in hallways so patients lying flat on a gurney will not be blinded by the glare, Some rooms are even designed to handle large patients up to 600 pounds. The womens center includes two 3D mammogram units, a breast cancer treatment center, non-invasive surgical rooms and all kinds of OGBYN facilities. It will handle all phases of a womans life, said center director Susan Worthington. The biggest development may be coming to what is now an empty shell. Plans call for neonatal intensive care unit in 2025, Sewell said. The expansion has led to a demand for more staff. Currently, Orlando Health South Lake has 1,600 employees, including at a new facility at Blue Cedar on U.S. 27 near an entry point to Floridas Turnpike. Sewell said the hospital is working closely with Lake Sumter College to hire and train new nurses. The hospitals in Orlando have residency programs for doctors. The region is exploding with growth, including Four Corners. In Clermont alone, the city grew by more than 13 percent since 2000, from 43,021 to 47,456, according to the University of Florida Bureau of Economic and Business Research. The company has about 25,000 employees in the Orlando area. This article originally appeared on Ocala Star-Banner: Growth in Lake: Orlando Health South Lake Hospital expands Jaipur, Feb 9 : The Congress has still not indicated any name as its Rajya Sabha candidate in Rajasthan The state will hold the RS polls for three seats as Kirodi Lal Meena, now a MLA and state minister, has resigned from the Rajya Sabha after winning the assembly polls. Similarly, the term of two RS MPs, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and sitting Union minister Bhupendra Yadav, will end on April 3, 2024. As the BJP won 115 seats and the Congress won 70 in the Assembly polls, the former is set to win 2 RS seats while the latter has one seat. As one seat is assured for the Congress in Rajasthan, there are whispers that Sonia Gandhi might be fielded from the state for the RS polls. However, other party workers told IANS that a party loyalist like Ajay Maken can also be given a chance for he has been connected with the state as the state in-charge earlier. Meanwhile, with former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot being unwell and in hospital, party workers are subdued. aWe too are clueless on who shall be fielded from Rajasthan. However, veteran leaders have confirmed that Sonia Gandhi has been offered seats in Telangana, Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan. Now, it depends on her which seat she selects. As such, our party has strong strength in the South so if she goes from Telangana, the bond will become stronger. Similarly, in Himachal, we have our government. However, it is safer to contest from Rajasthan compared to Himachal Pradesh as the latter has a much smaller Assembly, hence there is a threat of cross-voting spoiling the party's plans. "In such a situation, Rajasthan sounds safe but the current BJP government can play spoilsport. The RLD was in alliance with the Congress in Rajasthan but now the equations have changed. These game changing equations can pose a threat to her candidature. Earlier too, the BJP had fielded two candidates for the RS polls in 2022 when it was sure that it will be winning only one seat and the Congress had termed it a spoilsport," said a party worker. So to avoid such a situation, Sonia Gandhi might be fielded from Telangana where there is a clear cut parity and no confusion. However, things are still not clear and we too are waiting for an official announcement, said the party worker. Party sources said that as of now, no formal meeting has taken place to finalise nominations for the Rajya Sabha elections, which are scheduled to be held on February 27, and the last date for nomination is February 15. We too are waiting If the party will go for local faces in the southern states or if it fields national leaders from Rajasthan, said party workers. Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar during the launch of the portal of Bihar Small Entrepreneur Scheme. Image Source: IANS News Patna, Feb 9 : In a bid to ensure that all of its MLAs are with the party, the JD-U's top leadership has called all legislators for a meeting on February 11, a day before the floor test of the NDA Government in Bihar. Patna, Feb 9 (IANS) In a bid to ensure that all of its MLAs are with the party, the JD-Uas top leadership has called all legislators for a meeting on February 11, a day before the floor test of the NDA Government in Bihar. The floor test is scheduled to be held on February 12 in Bihar Assembly where the newly-formed NDA Government is expected to win the trust vote. The meeting will be held at the residence of Cabinet Minister Vijay Kumar Chaudhary in Patna on February 11 and all the legislators have been asked to be present. The partyas senior leaders will give the aGuru Mantraa to them for the proceedings of the forthcoming Budget Session. The JD-U has taken the initiative to ensure that no disturbance takes place on the day of the floor test. The RJD and Congress leaders keep saying that aKhela (game)a will take place in Bihar on February 12 and hence the JD-U wants to ensure that all of its 45 MLAs are with the party on the crucial day. In a bid to prevent horse trading, the Congress party took 18 out of its 19 MLAs to Telangana. The BJP is also taking its 78 MLAs to Bodh Gaya for a two-day training camp, on February 10 and 11. Gurugram, Feb 9 : In an order to curb thefts, the Gurugram police on Friday sealed several ATM kiosks in the Sohna area that were operating without security guards The police pasted a notice on the main shutters of the booths, saying that if any bank has any objections, they can contact the SHO concerned. "We have requested the banks to deploy 24-hour security guards on their ATMs so that thieves do not make attempts to commit theft. Banks should pay heed to the police instructions immediately. When they failed to act, we locked up the ATMs," Gurugram police spokesperson Subhash Boken said. Earlier also, banks had been told to deploy guards at the ATMs, but most of these did not follow the instructions, while some banks deployed guards during the daytime only and not at night. A bank official said when an ATM kiosk is open in the daytime, most banks have already deployed guards, but when the kiosks are lying closed at night, banks are not responsible for deploying guards. Itas the duty of the police to conduct routine patrolling so that no ATM theft takes place, the official added. Bhopal, Feb 9 : The first cheetah cub born on Indian soil at Madhya Pradesh's Kuno National Park (KNP) after 20 big cats were transported from African countries was injured, a wildlife activist has claimed. Bhopal, Feb 9 (IANS) The first cheetah cub born on Indian soil at Madhya Pradesh's Kuno National Park (KNP) after 20 big cats were transported from African countries was injured, a wildlife activist has claimed. Bhopal-based wildlife activist Ajay Dube shared a photograph of cheetah cub on his social media handle claiming the felineas right leg was fractured on November 28, but the Kuno authority did not reveal the matter. Dube wrote to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), the nodal agency of India's ambitious 'Project Cheetah', demanding an investigation into the matter. "10 months old cheetah cubas right leg was fractured in quarantine home, however, the Kuno authority informed the NTCA a week later," he added. Senior Indian Forest Service officer (IFoS) Uttam Sharma, who is supervising the 'Project Cheetah' at Kuno, however, denied the allegation, claiming "no such incident had happened". However, an official document available with IANS revealed that the said cheetah cub was treated on November 29. At present, Kuno has as many as 21 cheetahs - 13 adult felines brought from South Africa and Namibia and eight cubs born on Indian soil. A total of 11 cubs were born at Kuno since September 2022, out of which three cubs died. Seven cubs, born recently, are said to be fit and fine. In his letter to the NTCA, Dube also mentioned that two other cheetahs, namely a" Nirva and Agni - were sick, which is a matter of concern. Patna, Feb 9 : At least 30 passengers were injured after a speeding truck rammed a stationary bus on the NH 19 in Bihar's Kaimur district on Friday afternoon, police said. As the bus, on its way to Mohania in Kaimur from Sasaram in Rohtas district, reached Pusauli village under Kudra police station for boarding and deboarding passengers, of a speeding truck rammed it from behind and the impact was such that it overturned. Kudra police station SHO Vikash Kumar said: "30 passengers sustained injuries in this accident. The victims were admitted to a nearby private hospital and they are undergoing treatment. Around 50 passengers were boarded inside the bus when the accident took place." Following the accident, the bus overturned, leading to a massive traffic snarl on the NH 19, he said, adding that a crane was brought to spot to remove the bus from the four lane highway and restore normalcy. Bhubaneswar, Feb 9 : The 10th Kalinga Literary Festival (KLF) commenced in Bhubaneswar on Friday, setting the stage for a journey through the 'Legends of Ancient Bharat and Beyond'. Bhubaneswar, Feb 9 (IANS) The 10th Kalinga Literary Festival (KLF) commenced in Bhubaneswar on Friday, setting the stage for a journey through the aLegends of Ancient Bharat and Beyond'. The event opened with a virtual speech by Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and other guests of honour. The first day unfolded with an array of sessions where prominent writers, poets and journalists engaged in insightful discussions on diverse topics such as literature, media, women, nationalism and more. In his opening address, the Chief Minister said, aThe Kalinga Literary Festival is more than an event; it is a bridge connecting the past with the present, ancient wisdom with contemporary insights. As participants immerse themselves in Bharat's literary legacy, the festival becomes a platform to explore solutions proposed by ancestors for societal challenges and rediscover the beauty and relevance of tales in the modern world." Welcoming the dignitaries, Founder and Director of KLF, Rashmi Ranjan Parida, emphasised the responsibility that comes with this inheritance -- to ensure the wisdom of the ages enlightens and guides humanity toward compassion, justice and harmony. Notable figures, including Santrupt Mishra, Amish Tripathi, Sitakant Mahapatra and Paramita Panda shared their insights into Odisha's ancient culture, celebrated literature and art, as they highlighted the symbiosis between literature and art. They also emphasised the opportunity to dismantle barriers between thought leaders and artists. The KLF Literary Honour was conferred upon Nasira Sharma and Beena Paudyal, while author and veteran journalist Sandeep Bamzai and writer Amish Tripathi received the National Living Legends Awards, recognising their contributions to journalism and literature. In addition to the literary discussions, the Kalinga Art Festival, an integral part of the event, showcased the creative brilliance of Odisha. Over 70 paintings by prominent artists adorned the virtual gallery, providing a visual feast for art enthusiasts. The exhibition celebrated the diverse expressions of Odisha's artistic landscape, offering a glimpse into the creative minds shaping the cultural narrative of the state. New Delhi, Feb 9 : The Centre accounts for approximately 60 per cent of the total debt or outstanding liabilities of India and all the states put together account for the rest 40 per cent, the Kerala government has told the Supreme Court in a recent affidavit. Replying to the Centreas note, the state government said that Kerala accounts for a miniscule 1.70-1.75 per cent of the total debt of the Centre and the states put together for the period 2019-2023. Kerala said that the note submitted on behalf of the Attorney General a" the highest law officer of the Centre a" relies upon selective and incomplete concepts on Indian public finance management and does not touch upon the very serious constitutional issues raised in its suit. "Regrettably, the note seems to be intended to divert the attention of this suit from the substance of the legal issues raised in the plaint," it said, adding that the Union government cannot assume a role or seek to exercise powers that are extra-constitutional or violate provisions of the Constitution. The reply affidavit filed by the state stressed that under pretext of "sound public financial management", the Union government cannot violate or encroach upon the plenary powers of the states granted under the Constitution. "Encroachment into the exclusive legislative and executive domains of the states cannot be justified on the basis of any theory of necessity, impact on the national economy, potential abuse of powers by the states, or the fact that states have a certain level of dependence upon the Union in certain respects and may be considered to be subsidiary to the Union in such respect." Keralaas affidavit alleged that the Union government, without conforming to the Finance Commission recommendations, is expected to close this year with a borrowing of Rs.11.80 lakh crores in 2023-2024 - far beyond what it should have borrowed if it had complied with the recommendations of the Fifteenth Finance Commission. It added that the borrowing of all states and Union Territories of Rs.7.22 lakh crores will be well within the combined limit prescribed by the Finance Commission. Responding to an original suit filed by Kerala raising grievance over the Centreas interference with the stateas power to borrow and regulate its own finances, Attorney General R. Venkataramani, in a written note, stated: "Kerala has been one of the most financially unhealthy States and its fiscal edifice has been diagnosed with several cracks ... Squeezed for funds for capital expenditure and to circumvent borrowing limits ... Kerala has resorted to substantial off-budget borrowings through the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB)." As per the details published on the website of the apex court, a bench of Justices Surya Kant and K.V. Viswanathan will take up the matter for further hearing on February 13 and decide the application filed by the plaintiff state seeking interim relief. In a suit filed under Article 131 of the Constitution, the Kerala government has raised questions over the authority of the Union government to interfere with the powers of the state to regulate its own finances under several provisions of the Constitution. Tension prevails in Bareilly after cleric's call for protest on Gyanvapi issue. Image Source: IANS News Bareilly : , Feb 9 (IANS) Thousands of followers of Ittehad-e-Millat Council chief Tauqeer Raza Khan took to the streets on Friday after the Islamic cleric was detained by the police for giving a 'jail bharo' call over Gyanvapi case. Stone pelting was reported in the Shahmat Ganj area in which one person was injured, the police said. The district magistrate said the police are investigating the matter and an FIR will be lodged. Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan had given a 'jail bharo andolan' call, asking his supporters to follow him in offering their arrest to police. He gave the call in protest against Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's statement in the Assembly that Muslims should wilfully give up their claim on Gyanvapi mosque in Varanasi and Shahi Idgah mosque in Mathura. Thousands of Raza Khan's supporters took to the streets after Friday namaz. Around 1,000 police personnel were on the ground to maintain the law-and-order situation. Six Additional Superintendents of Police and 12 Circle Officers are on the ground to control the situation. Kolkata, Feb 9 : The Calcutta High Court on Friday ordered a second post-mortem examination of a rape and murder minor victim for the sake of clarity in the investigation process. Passing this order, a single-judge bench of Justice Jay Sengupta observed that since there is a difference in the contents of the first post-mortem report and that in the inquest report, the necessity of the second post- mortem of the victimas body has become necessary. The different between the post-mortem examination and inquest report is that while inquest report is primarily aimed at finding out the nature of injuries and the apparent cause of death, the post-mortem report comprises the details and nature of injuries ascertained through strict scientific examination conducted with medico-legal view by a qualified doctor in the field. Justice Sengupta ordered that the second post mortem be done at the state-run S.S.K.M. Medical College & Hospital and also directed the submission of the case diary in the matter to his bench by March 6. A minor boy and his father were arrested at Hariharpara in Murshidabad district of West Bengal on charges of rape and murder of a 14-year-old minor girl. It was alleged that after the rape and murder, the accused father and son even pierced different parts of the body of the victim and even poured acid on the body. While this was mentioned in the inquest report, there was no similar reference of such cruelties in the first post-mortem report. Mumbai, Feb 9 : Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) President Raj Thackeray has demanded the Bharat Ratna for his uncle and Shiv Sena founder-patriarch the late Balasaheb Thackeray who played a major role in the Hindutva movement, here on Friday. Balasaheb Thackeray (1926-2012), the father of Shiv Sena (UBT) President and ex-Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, had founded the original Shiv Sena in June 1966, to espouse the cause of the Marathis and propagate Hindutva. "A prominent cartoonist of this country and a unique leader who kindled the pride of all Hindus across the country deserves this honour," said Raj Thackeray in a social media post. He also tagged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, besides sharing an old pix showing him enjoying a close rapport with his uncle. The MNS chief's statement came soon after the Centre announced Bharat Ratna for two former PMs -- Chaudhary Charan Singh (July 1979-January 1980) and PV Narasimha Rao (1991-1996) -- and renowned agriculture scientist M.S. Swaminathan (1925-2023). "M.S. Swaminathan passed away just a few months ago. A scientist who achieved so much should have received this honour during his lifetime. Anyway," said Raj Thackeray. "Now that the BJP-led government at the Centre has shown political generosity by honouring P.V. Narasimha Rao, Chaudhary Charan Singh, and Pranab Mukherjee a few years ago, they must show the same generosity and declare Balasaheb Thackeray Bharat Ratna as well," he said. Raj Thackeray added that the Bharat Ratna honour to Balasaheb would be a moment of jubilation for him and others who have inherited his thoughts. The recall of more than four dozen dairy products for possible listeria contamination has been expanded to include enchiladas, bean dip, dressings and sauces sold at stores including Albertson's, Costco and Trader Joe's and with an Amazon Kitchen label. Rizo-Lopez Foods of Modesto, California, recalled dozens of dairy products earlier this week, including Queso Fresco and Cotija Cheese, because of the risk of contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. The recalled products including cheese, crema, yogurt, and sour cream were distributed nationwide and sold under brand names such as 365 Whole Foods Market, Don Francisco and Tio Francisco, the company said in a press release. Stores carrying products affected included Harris Teeter and Whole Foods. An expansion of the recall on Thursday, according to U.S. Food and Drug Administration, increases the products recalled to more than five dozen, including black bean dip and other products sold at Costco, and Trader Joe's brand enchiladas, salad dressing and salads, the FDA said. What cheese and other products are being recalled for listeria risk? The recall of more than four dozen dairy products for possible contamination with listeria has been expanded to include enchiladas, bean dip, dressings and sauces sold at stores including Albertson's, Costco and Trader Joe's. Fresh Creative of Vista, California, a division of Reser Foods, recalled several products because they are made with a cheese ingredient supplied by Rizo-Lopez Foods. The products were sold at stores including Costco, H-E-B, Trader Joes and Albertsons in California, Connecticut, Florida, Indiana, Maryland, Montana, New Jersey, Nevada, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Texas, Virginia and Washington. The products are: Don Pancho Chicken Street Taco Express Meal Kit (22 ounces), best by dates of Feb. 12-March 17, 2024. Don Pancho Cilantro Lime Crema Twin Pack 2 pk (32 oz), best by dates of March 21-April 4, 2024. HEB Cilantro Cotija Dressing (12 oz.), best by dates of Jan. 13-March 30, 2024. HEB Poblano Caesar dressing (12 oz.) best by dates of Jan. 14-March 31, 2024. Trader Joe's Chicken Enchiladas Verde (17.6 ounces), no dates Trader Joe's Cilantro Dressing (12 oz.), best by dates of Feb. 19-May 14, 2024. Don Pancho Everything Sauce Fiesta 3-Pack (of 12-oz bottles), best by dates of March 11-26, 2024. Story continues The company says it has gotten no consumer complaints about the products. The recall of more than four dozen dairy products for possible contamination with listeria has been expanded to include enchiladas, bean dip, dressings and sauces sold at stores including Albertson's, Costco and Trader Joe's. Trader Joe's of Monrovia, California, is recalling all lots of these products sold nationwide containing cotija cheese supplied by Rizo-Lopez Foods. They are: Trader Joes Chicken Enchiladas Verde Trader Joes Cilantro Salad Dressing Trader Joes Elote Chopped Salad Kit Trader Joes Southwest Salad No illnesses have been reported related to these products, the company said. Simply Fresh of Buena Park, California, is recalling Rojos Black Bean 6 Layer Dip 2-20-ounce Club Pack because it contains the recalled cotija cheese from Rizo-Lopez Foods. The recalled dips have use-by dates from Feb. 6-March 22, 2024. A total of 7,350 cases were distributed to Costco stores in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Mississippi, Montana, North Carolina, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Washington, and Utah. To date, there have been no harmful effects reported, the company said. The recall of more than four dozen dairy products for possible contamination with listeria has been expanded to include enchiladas, bean dip, dressings and sauces sold at stores including Albertson's, Costco and Trader Joe's. The U.S. Department of Agriculture also added another product to the recall late Thursday: Amazon Kitchen Chicken Chile Verde Burritos. SK Food Group notified the UDSA's Food Safety and Inspection Service they used recalled cotija cheese made by Rizo-Lopez Foods that may be contaminated with listeria. The product was shipped to locations nationwide and sold: Individually in wax paper packages labeled "Amazon Kitchen, Chicken Chile Verde burrito with rice, black beans & monterey jack" with Best Before Julian dates starting with 0764, 1384, 1394, and 2694. In boxes containing 8 burritos labeled "Chicken Chile Verde Burrito With Rice, Black Beans & Monterey Jack" with production dates 6/20/23, 8/21/23, 8/22/23, and 12/30/23, and with expiration dates of 3/16/24, 5/17/24, 5/18/24, and 9/25/24. There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products, the company said. The products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase, the USDA says. Cheese recall: Queso fresco, other products previously recalled The multistate and multi-year investigation dates back to 2014 as officials had previously investigated listeria outbreaks connected to Rizo-Lopez Foods in 2021 and 2017, with cases dating back to 2014. The FDA and Centers for Diseased Control and Infection began investigating again after the Hawaii State Department of Health in January 2024 reported it had found a sample of Rizo-Lopez Foods-manufactured Rizo Bros Aged Cotija that tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes. The outbreak has resulted in 26 illnesses with 2 deaths and 23 hospitalizations in 11 states (Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Nevada, North Carolina, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas and Washington), The CDC said. The illnesses date back to 2014, the CDC said, with the most recent case from December 2023. One death was reported from California in 2017 and the other death was reported from Texas in 2020, the CDC told USA TODAY. The four dozen products recalled on Tuesday include all sell-by dates of cheese, yogurt, and sour cream (crema) sold under these brand names, the FDA said: 365 Whole Foods Market Campesino Casa Cardena Don Francisco Dos Ranchitos El Huache Food City La Ordena Rio Grande Rizo Bros San Carlos Santa Maria Tio Francisco The FDA has complete product descriptions and UPCs (universal product codes) on its website. What to do if you bought cheese products recalled for listeria risk? Check your refrigerator and freezers for any recalled products and throw them away. Do not eat them. If you froze a product without the original packaging and cant tell if it is part of the recall, throw it away. You can get a refund from the store where you bought the products. Clean and sanitize any surfaces the recalled products may have touched, as listeria can survive in refrigerators and spread to other foods and surfaces. Follow the FDA's safe handling and cleaning advice to reduce the risk of cross-contamination. Rizo-Lopez Foods is voluntarily recalling its dairy products listed below because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes What is listeria infection? You can get a serious infection by eating food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria. Most people who get listeriosis do not become seriously ill, but a serious infection can develop in those most susceptible including pregnant women and their newborns, adults ages 65 or older, and people with weakened immune systems, according to the Centers for Diseased Control and Infection. Each year, about 1,600 people get sick and 260 die from listeriosis, the CDC says. Symptoms may start the same day you eat contaminated food, but more typically begin within two weeks after consumption and may start as late as 10 weeks later, the FDA says. Symptoms may include fever, muscle aches, nausea, fatigue, vomiting and diarrhea for those with a mild illness. Those who develop more serious cases may have headaches, a stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. If you develop symptoms, contact your health care provider. Follow Mike Snider on X and Threads: @mikesnider & mikegsnider. What's everyone talking about? Sign up for our trending newsletter to get the latest news of the day This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Cheese recall: Costco and Trader Joe's pull products for listeria risk Jaipur, Feb 9 : Reacting to the decision of the Central government to posthumously honour former Prime Ministers Chaudhary Charan Singh, PV Narasimha Rao, and agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan with the Bharat Ratna award, former Rajasthan BJP president Satish Poonia expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on behalf of all the farmers of the country. Addressing a press conference in Jaipur, Poonia said that the decision to honour these great personalities with the Bharat Ratna has increased the self-respect of the entire farmer fraternity of the country. Today is a day like Diwali for the farmers of Rajasthan and the country as the Modi government has honoured the farmers' messiah Chaudhary Charan Singh. He said that this decision will increase the self-respect of the farmers of the country and create more confidence that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is taking the country on the path of progress in all areas -- economic, political, agriculture, strategic etc. The Modi government provided relief to farmers by implementing the recommendations of MS Swaminathan. Due to the schemes of the Modi government, the standard of living of farmers is rising. Dehradun/New Delhi, Feb 9 : Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday visited the Banbhoolpura area in Haldwani and took stock of the situation after wide-scale violence and destruction of public property there by rioters. The Chief Minister met the injured police personnel, including women cops, municipal corporation workers and journalists and inquired about their condition and treatment. The Banbhoolpura area witnessed violence after Haldwani police went to demolish an illegal madrasa following court's orders. The rioters torched a police station, pelted stones at policemen and also vandalised police vehicles. The Chief Minister said that all the video footage and footprints of those who have broken the law and damaged government property are available. "The process of identifying the miscreants involved in the incident and taking legal action against them is underway," Dhami said. The Chief Minister also instructed ADG (Law and Order) A.P. Anshuman to camp in the violence-hit area. He ordered strict action against the rioters and directed the administration to 'act tough' against those who interfere in the implementation of government's directions. Notably, the Uttarakhand government had issued 'shoot at sight' orders on Thursday in the wake of violence in Haldwani. The Chief Minister also appealed to the local people to maintain peace and not take law into their hands. He called for strict action against the culprits and said that no one will be allowed to play with law and order in the state. "Administrative officers should be constantly alert to maintain law and order in the area, and should strive to maintain peace in every situation," Dhami said. New Delhi, Feb 9 : India and Rwanda held the first edition of Joint Defence Cooperation Committee (JDCC) meeting in Rwandan capital Kigali, an official statement said on Friday. The JDCC was to discuss a wide range of opportunities to enhance defence cooperation between the two countries, the Defence Ministry statement said, adding that the detailed discussions were held in areas like training cooperation, joint military exercises, defence industrial cooperation etc. The Indian delegation highlighted the growing prowess of Indian defence manufacturers to export to friendly countries, while the Rwandan side evinced keen interest in augmenting training cooperation, expressing confidence in the growing capabilities of the Indian defence industry. It also highlighted areas where the Indian armed forces and industry could collaborate with their defence forces under the aegis of the Defence MoU signed between the two countries during the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Rwanda in 2018. Earlier the Indian delegation called on Rwanda Defence Minister, Marizamunda Juvenal and conveyed the warm greetings of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The Indian delegation was led by Joint Secretary Amitabh Prasad and included senior officials from the Ministry of Defence and the Indian Armed Forces. The Charge daAffaires in the Indian mission in Kigali, Nilratan Mridha also attended the meeting. The Defence Ministry said that bilateral relations between India and Rwanda have been cordial and have grown steadily over the years. Days after mayoral poll row, Chandigarh gets new DGP. Image Source: IANS News Chandigarh, Feb 9 : Days after Chandigarh hogged the spotlight over the mayoral poll controversy, a new Director General of Police was appointed in the city on Friday. Madhup Tiwari, a 1995-batch IPS officer, has been named for the post, replacing Praveer Ranjan. Tiwari is currently serving as the Special Commissioner of Police, Law and Order, with Delhi Police. Outgoing DGP Ranjan, of the 1993 batch who had joined Chandigarh Police in August 2021, has been posted as Additional Director General in the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). --IANS vg/vd New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses during a programme marking the 150th birth anniversary of Srila Prabhupada. Image Source: IANS News New Delhi, Feb 9 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Madhya Pradesh on February 11 (Sunday), an official said on Friday, adding he will dedicate to the nation and lay the foundation of multiple development projects worth about Rs 7,500 crore in the state. The vision of Antyodaya has been a guiding light for the initiatives taken by the Prime Minister, the official said. One of the key focus areas has been ensuring that benefits of development reach out to the tribal community, major sections of which were not able to gain these benefits even several decades after independence. In line with this, the Prime Minister will dedicate and lay the foundation stone of multiple initiatives that will benefit the significant tribal population of the region, the official added. The PMO said that PM Modi will disburse monthly instalment of Aahar Anudan under Aahar Anudan Yojna to about 2 lakh women beneficiaries. Under this scheme, Rs 1,500 per month is provided for nutritious food to women of various specially backward tribes of Madhya Pradesh. The Prime Minister will also distribute 1.75 lakh 'adhikar abhilekh' (record of rights) to beneficiaries of SVAMITVA Scheme. This will provide documentary evidence to people for the right to their land. Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone of Tantya Mama Bhil University -- a dedicated University which will cater to the youth from districts with high tribal concentration in the region. To be developed at a cost of Rs 170 crore, the University will provide world class infrastructure for holistic development of students. The Prime Minister will also transfer Rs 55.9 crore for 559 villages under Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana. This amount will be utilised for various kinds of construction activities including Anganwadi Bhawans, Fair Price Shops, Health Centres, additional rooms in schools, internal roads, among others, official added. Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone of 'CM Rise School' in Jhabua. The school will integrate technology to provide modern facilities like smart classes, e-Library etc., to students. The Prime Minister will also dedicate to the nation and lay the foundation of multiple projects that will strengthen the water supply and provisioning of drinking water in Madhya Pradesh. Prime Minister will dedicate to nation and lay the foundation stone of multiple rail projects during the programme. These include laying of foundation stone for the redevelopment of Ratlam railway station and Meghnagar railway station, official added. The official said that the PM will dedicate to nation multiple road development projects worth more than Rs 3,275 crore in Madhya Pradesh. San Francisco, Feb 9 : Samsung Electronics on Friday announced that the sleep apnea feature on its Health Monitor app for smartwatch has received the approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The feature will detect signs of sleep apnea using a compatible Samsung Galaxy Watch and phone. South Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) had approval the feature last October in South Korea. The sleep apnea feature will enable users over the age of 22 who have not been diagnosed with sleep apnea to detect signs of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) over a two-night monitoring period. To utilise the feature, users will be able to simply track their sleep twice for more than four hours within a 10-day period. Untreated sleep apnea can compound the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart failure, cardiac arrhythmias and stroke. The feature will be available on the Galaxy Watch series in the US via Samsung Health Monitor app in the third quarter, said the company. "Users should not use this feature to replace traditional methods of diagnosis and treatment by a qualified clinician. The data provided by this device is also not intended to assist clinicians in diagnosing sleep disorders," informed the company. Kolkata, Feb 9 : In line with the ruling Trinamool Congress in West Bengal, the Chief Secretary of the state, B.P. Gopalika, on Friday refuted the recent CAG findings on non- submission of utilisation certificates by the state government on fund utilisation under the different Centrally-sponsored schemes. Speaking to mediapersons at the state secretariat Nabanna, Gopalika said that there is no reason to accept the CAG findings in the matter. "The findings say that the utilisation certificates valued at Rs 2.29 lakh crore from eight state government departments had not been submitted. I think there has been a misunderstanding in the matter. "It is actually a 20-year compiled report starting from the financial year 2002-03. So the report is actually a compilation of accounts for 20 years," the Chief Secretary said. Now, he added, the question is if the accounts are for 20 years, why the issue of non-submission of utilisation certificates is being raised after such a long time? He also pointed out that Central field inspection teams come to the state regularly to review the performance of the crucial departments like that of panchayat affairs and rural development, health, among others. "Whatever documents or information have been sought by such field inspection teams have already been provided to them. Nothing is pending at our end," he added. Earlier this month, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi raising objections to the observations made in the State Finance Audit Report for 2020-21 of the CAG regarding non-submission of utilisation certificates. In the letter, the Chief Minister had claimed that on scrutiny of the observations of the report, it was found that the state government departments concerned had submitted the utilisation certificates on time to the respective Union ministries in the prescribed format against the allocations/sanctions made under different Centrally-sponsored schemes. New Delhi, Feb 9 : The Congress on Friday welcomed the government's decision to confer Bharat Ratna to former Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao posthumously. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said: "On behalf of the party, we welcome Bharat Ratna being conferred to P.V. Narasimha Rao, Chaudhary Charan Singh (also former PM) and M.S. Swaminathan. "P.V. Narasimha Rao has tremendously contributed to nation building. Under his government, India embarked on a transformative journey with a series of economic reforms that played a pivotal role in shaping the middle class for generations to come," Kharge added. The Congress president said that Narasimha Rao had made significant contributions to India's nuclear programme and a number of foreign policy achievements marked his tenure. Kharge said that Chaudhary Charan Singh was known for his pro-farmer policies, and he is widely respected by crores of farmers in the country. New Delhi, Feb 9 : Women officers of the Indian Air Force, Army and Navy interacted with over 700 Indian students from various CBSE-affiliated schools in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. According to the Ministry of Defence, the students were eager to know about the opportunities for women in the Indian armed forces and were thrilled to listen to the stories of grit, passion and success. The women officers from the three services - Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth, Colonel Ponung Doming and Lieutenant Commander Annu Prakash - were part of an Indian delegation to Saudi Arabia headed by Minister of State for Defence, Ajay Bhatt, to attend the World Defence Show 2024 in Riyadh. Bhatt visited the General Authority for Defence Development (GADD), and met its Governor Faleh bin-Abdullah Al-Sulaiman. They discussed areas of bilateral defence cooperation and avenues for further collaboration. Bhatt also invited the GADD Governor to visit India at a convenient date. Bhatt later visited the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) and met with its President, Munir M Eldesouki. He also paid a visit to the Saudi Arabian Military Industry - the Advanced Electronics Company (SAMI-AEC) headquarters - in Riyadh. Later, he visited Al-Turaif, a UNESCO world heritage site in Diriyah. A community event was hosted in the honour of Bhatt at the Embassy of India in Riyadh. Addressing the gathering, he spoke about Government of Indiaas focus on holistic development of the nation and empowering women in all fields A cultural programme was also organised by the students of Indian schools in Riyadh, which showcased the richness of Indiaas heritage and spirit of unity across borders. New Delhi, Feb 9 : The Supreme Court on Friday said that the plea filed by Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee seeking a direction to transfer alleged multi-crore teachers' recruitment scam case to a special bench of the Calcutta High Court be tagged with the pending suo-motu case being heard by a five-judge bench. "We have suo moto taken charge. We are tagging your matter with five-judge bench matter," said a bench headed by CJI D.Y. Chandrachud. However, the bench, also comprising Justices Manoj Misra and S.C. Sharma, expressed disclination to entertain the prayer for taking action against Justice Abhijit Gangopadhyay of the High Court for his continuous politically motivated interviews in connection to sub-judice matters. Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for Banerjee, stated that Justice Gangopadhyay, in an order passed in a fake caste certificate case, has accused another sitting judge for calling fellow judge, Justice Amrita Sinha to his chamber and giving her certain suggestions on the cases related to the school job scam being heard by her. In his plea, Banerjee, the General Secretary of West Bengal's ruling Trinamool, prayed for a direction that the remarks made by Justice Gangopadhyay within or outside the court premises against him should not influence the investigation carried out by the CBI and ED. The plea also sought directions to restrain the Judges from making adverse comments about any sub judice case or the parties involved therein. The Supreme Court had taken suo moto cognisance of the unprecedented differences arisen between a division bench and a single judge bench of the High Court over CBI probe into alleged irregularities pertaining to admissions in medical colleges in the state. In an order passed on January 25, a single-judge bench of Justice Gangopadhyay "ignored" a stay order passed by the division bench and asked the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to "immediately" start investigation into alleged fake caste certificate scam. Justice Gangopadhyay even accused one of the two judges of the division bench of "acting clearly for some political party". Subsequently, a five-judge bench of the apex court has formally transferred to itself all the proceedings pending before the High Court related to fake caste certificates being used for admission in medical colleges and hospitals in West Bengal. The matter is likely to be heard in apex court on February 19. --IANS pds/vd Intel (NASDAQ: INTC) hasn't been the world's greatest stock to own. Over the past decade, Intel's total return (which includes dividend payments) was about 140%. While that may not seem terrible, the Nasdaq-100's total return is about 465% over that same time frame. That's significant underperformance, and it occurred because Intel has fallen behind on technology. However, Intel may be able to turn it around thanks to a new machine it bought. So, if Intel can return to the top, could it become the next Nvidia and skyrocket higher? Let's find out. Intel has fallen behind other semiconductor companies The machine that Intel just purchased is a high NA EUV lithography machine made by ASML. Lithography machines allow chipmakers to etch the microscopic patterns on a chip. The distance between these traces determines the size of the chip node. Currently, 3 nanometer (nm) chips are the world's smallest and are only produced by Taiwan Semiconductor and Samsung. Intel doesn't have 3nm or 5nm chip technology. Instead, the best it has is 7nm. This difference puts its products at a significant disadvantage compared to competitors' products that use these more powerful chips. But Intel's latest purchase of this high NA EUV lithography machine will allow Intel to produce 2nm chips and return to prominence in the semiconductor space. However, the effect may not be as big as expected. Intel is competing with many companies, but primarily Taiwan semiconductors, on this front. Taiwan Semiconductor is a contract chip manufacturer that makes the chips that Intel's competitors (like AMD) use. Taiwan Semiconductor even makes some 3nm chips for Intel because it cannot do so. The relationships are deep within this industry, and if Intel can get its 2nm chips out before others, it may not be enough to supplant itself as king of the semiconductor world. However, this return to prominence may be enough to kick-start momentum in the stock. Story continues The stock isn't that much cheaper than its peers Valuing Intel's stock is difficult from the trailing earnings perspective, as it had a few quarters with negative earnings in 2023. But, if we value the stock using forward earnings, we can better understand how the market views Intel. INTC PE Ratio (Forward) Chart At 31 times earnings, Intel's stock isn't that cheap. But that isn't the full picture. Over the past few years, Intel's profit margins have fallen off a cliff. INTC Profit Margin Chart If Intel can recover to a 25% profit margin and maintain the revenue it generated in 2023, $54.2 billion, it would produce profits of $13.6 billion. Dividing its market cap by this figure yields an optimized price-to-earnings ratio of 13. So, if Intel can return to this level, then the stock looks pretty cheap. But does that mean it could turn into the next Nvidia? I'd say no. Taiwan Semiconductor trades at 19 times forward earnings, so even if Intel improved its margin to previous levels, it doesn't have that far to go before it would be valued the same as Taiwan Semiconductor. Intel has a lot to prove, and the stock is already assuming success in revitalizing the company. That's far from certain, making me want to invest in Taiwan Semiconductor rather than Intel. Should you invest $1,000 in Intel right now? Before you buy stock in Intel, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now and Intel wasnt one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Stock Advisor provides investors with an easy-to-follow blueprint for success, including guidance on building a portfolio, regular updates from analysts, and two new stock picks each month. The Stock Advisor service has more than tripled the return of S&P 500 since 2002*. See the 10 stocks *Stock Advisor returns as of February 5, 2024 Keithen Drury has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Intel and recommends the following options: long January 2023 $57.50 calls on Intel, long January 2025 $45 calls on Intel, and short February 2024 $47 calls on Intel. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Could Intel Become the Next Nvidia? was originally published by The Motley Fool Kohima, Feb 9 : The Nagaland State Human Rights Commission (NSHRC) has taken cognizance of the brutal assault of a 19-year-old college student by police personnel on January 29, and asked the Director General of Police (DGP) to submit a report within one week. According to NSHRC sources, the Anti-Vehicle Theft Squad (AVTS) of Nagaland Police brutally assaulted Moalong Jamir, a student of Tetso College, here on January 29. Since it came into existence, the commission has also taken up a number of cases, including the two custodial death cases which happened last year at the Central Jail in Dimapur and at the Chumoukidema police station, an NSHRC statement said. The two cases are proceeding at a fast pace and are likely to be disposed of soon. New Delhi, Feb 9 : The Supreme Court on Friday refused to interfere with the Allahabad High Court's order, which had warned Uttar Pradesh Home Secretary Sanjay Prasad with action for contempt if its order granting increment in pensionary benefits is not compiled in letter and spirit by February 12. "We are not inclined to entertain the Special Leave Petition under Article 136 of the Constitution. The Special Leave Petition is accordingly dismissed," said a bench headed over by CJI D.Y. Chandrachud and comprising Justices Manoj Misra and S.C. Sharma. In an order passed on January 19, a bench of Justice Shree Prakash Singh of the Allahabad High Court had said that if its order dated May 24, 2023 granting annual increment is not complied in letter and spirit, the Principal Secretary, Home, will explain why contempt proceeding should not be initiated against him. The High Court had rejected the compliance affidavit filed by the state government and held it to be prima facie contemptuous. However, it granted further opportunity to make compliance of the order by February 12. Patna, Feb 9 : An elderly person was killed in Sheohar, an RMP doctor was shot at in Nalanda, while four robbers looted Rs 8 lakh from a finance company in Gaya -- all on Friday. In Sheohar district, a 65-year-old man was beaten to death over an old enmity on Friday. The incident was reported from Khaira Pahadi village under Purhania police station in the district. "There was a dispute between two groups, and on Friday, one group attacked the other. They mercilessly assaulted a person named Bharat Das, leaving him critically injured. His family members tried to rush him to a nearby hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries enroute," said Anant Kumar Rai, SP of Sheohar. "We have registered an FIR against the accused persons, who are on the run. Efforts are on to nab them at the earliest," Rai said. In another incident, a Registered Medical Practitioner (RMP) was shot at near the Akbarpur High School under Hilsa police station in Nalanda district. The victim has been identified as Deepak Kumar, a native of Hilsa. The police said Deepak reportedly received a phone call, in which the caller requested him to treat a patient in the Kurmia Bigha village. As he was enroute the village on his bike, unidentified assailants opened fire at him. He was first admitted to a sub-divisional hospital in Hilsa from where he was referred to Patna for further treatment. The reason for the attack is yet to be ascertained. In another incident in Gaya, four armed men riding two bikes struck at a finance company in the Khijsarai locality on Friday morning, holding the employees at gunpoint. They locked them inside a toilet and looted Rs 8 lakh from the cash counter. The police are scanning the CCTV footage from the area to identify the accused. Hyderabad, Feb 9 : Cyberabad police seized 65 kg of dry Ganja which was being transported to Uttar Pradesh from Andhra Pradesh by hiding in a container resembling a CNG cylinder. Police arrested four inter-state drug peddlers and seized ganja, two cars and six mobile phones, all worth Rs 40 lakh. Acting on specific information, the sleuths of Special Operations Team (SOT), Medchal Zone and Medchal Police made the arrests and seized the contraband. Police intercepted the accused near Outer Ring Road Medchal on Thursday night when they were transporting dry Ganja from Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh to Uttar Pradesh. The accused Abhishek Tomar alias Aman, Aravind Chowdary, Ashish and Akash Solanki are all residents of Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh. According to police, Aravind Chowdary is a habitual interstate dry ganja peddler. He got to know about this illegal business while he was in a UP jail in an attempt to murder case. He went to Visakhapatnam and directly contacted the local Ganja suppliers and transported the contraband several times. A week ago, he along with three others went to Visakhapatnam and purchased 65 kgs of dry Ganja from a supplier and started for Uttar Pradesh in two cars. Using a fake CNG sticker on Swift Dzire, they stashed dry Ganja in a container which appeared like a CNG cylinder. --IANS ms/pgh Hyderabad, Feb 9 : Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Friday alleged that there is a tacit understanding between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Bharat Rashtra Samiti (BRS). Speaking in the Assembly on Friday, he noted that the BRS extended support to the BJP for passing several Bills and also backed the Modi government on demonetisation and GST. Revanth Reddy intervened during debate on the Motion of Thanks to Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan's address to the joint sitting of the legislature after former Speaker and BRS MLA Pocharam Srinivas Reddy claimed that the BRS had no understanding whatsoever with the BJP. The Chief Minister recalled how the BRS supported the Bills tabled in the Parliament including the "black bills" pertaining to agriculture, triple talaq Bill and also the Bill to repeal Article 370. Revanth Reddy also referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech at a public meeting in Telangana, wherein he claimed that K. Chandrasekhar Rao had met him to seek his support for making his son K. T. Rama Rao the Chief Minister. He alleged that KCR had decided to quit the Chief Minister's post following internal pressures. He met the Prime Minister and sought his support for making KTR the Chief Minister. Modi, however, did not accept his request. Revanth Reddy wondered why KCR sought PM's support for making his son the Chief Minister and told BRS legislators that he was ready to reveal many such things to them if they are interested. "KCR will tell you a few things but hide other things. I can tell you everything if you are interested," he said. Revanth Reddy also claimed that TRS (now BRS) and BJP were together in the election to the Legislative Council in 2011. Three TRS MLAs voted for the candidate suggested by the then Chief Minister N. Kiran Kumar Reddy and were expelled from the party. They were, however, taken back into the party fold subsequently. While admitting that three TRS MLAs had voted against the party's decision, Srinivas Reddy said there was no truth in the claim that the Prime Minister's support was sought to make KTR the Chief Minister. He said BRS had 100 MLAs and there was no reason for it to seek his support. --IANS ms/vd PM Modi to launch BJP's campaign for LS polls from MP's Jhabua on Feb 11. Image Source: IANS News Bhopal, Feb 9 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch BJP's campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls from tribal-dominated Jhabua in Madhya Pradesh on Sunday by addressing a rally. PM Modi will begin the poll campaign from Jhabua for 29 parliamentary seats in Madhya Pradesh, which the saffron party has almost swept during the last two consecutive elections -- 2014 (27) and 2019 (28). As the BJP is eyeing a third term of the Modi government, it is looking to win all 29 Lok Sabha seats in the election. State BJP President V. D. Sharma said on Friday that PM Modi will be addressing a mega rally of tribals in Jhabua on Sunday. "A large number of people from tribal communities across Madhya Pradesh will attend PM Modi's rally on Sunday. The State BJP unit has been preparing for the mega rally, which will mark the beginning of the party's campaign for the Lok Sabha election," Sharma added. As many as 47 of the total 230 Assembly seats in Madhya Pradesh are reserved for the Scheduled Tribes. In the Assembly election held in November last year, the BJP secured a resounding victory by winning 163 seats, however, it bagged only 27 and lost the election on 20 tribal seats in Madhya Pradesh. Therefore, to launch BJP's election campaign from a tribal dominated region and addressing a huge gathering of the community seems to be a strategic plan of PM Modi. However, itas not the first time Modi's visit will be focused on tribals in Madhya Pradesh. He had begun BJP's poll campaign from the most deprived community three years ago with organising the first a"'Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas' in Bhopal on November 15, 2021, when he had announced as many as 18 schemes only for the tribal community. Even during the campaign for the state Assembly election in November last year, Modi had addressed several rallies in tribal-dominated regions, and a 'Khat Sabha' was also organised in Shahdol on July 27. Sri Lanka can take a cue from Technoparks growth, says JVP MP. Image Source: IANS News Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 9 : Sri Lanka can follow the growth strategies of Technopark and collaborate with the IT companies in India to burgeon its nascent IT sector to benefit the island nation, Anura Kumara Dissanayaka, Lankan MP and leader of Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), said on Friday. Technopark set up here in the nineties was the first such park in the country. Dissanayaka was speaking during an interaction with Col Sanjeev Nair (Retd), CEO of Technopark, as he led a delegation to Technopark on Friday. The programme was organised by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, Ministry of External Affairs, Government of lndia. Noting that policy inconsistency creates a lot of problems in Sri Lanka's IT sector, Dissanayaka lauded the Kerala government's intervention and initiatives in building an immaculate IT ecosystem in the state, besides acknowledging the growth of Technopark. "Sri Lanka's IT sector contributes only $1.2 billion to the country's GDP. Since we have identified the IT sector as a key and thriving area, collaborations with Technopark would be a good strategy for long-term achievements," Dissanayaka said. JVP is the largest party under the broad entity National People's Power (NPP) in Sri Lanka. Stating that currently Sri Lanka has a few IT/ITeS platforms, Dissanayaka said NPP has set the target of increasing the contribution of the IT sector to the GDP to $10 billion in eight years. Highlighting that India plays a major role in the global IT industry, Dissanayaka said collaboration and understanding with the neighbouring country is going to benefit Sri Lanka in building its IT ecosystem. Nair on his part gave an insight about the IT ecosystem in Kerala, besides delineating the achievements of Technopark. He said Sri Lanka can adopt measures to ensure ease of doing business, fostering startup ecosystem by giving them various domain specific challenges to be addressed by latest innovative technological trends, besides improving mobility, leveraging the availability of talent and developing a sound social fabric to emerge as an IT hub. Agartala, Feb 10 : Six hardcore cadres of the banned National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) fled from their Bangladesh camps and surrendered to security officials in the state on Friday. They also deposited arms and ammunition including two Chinese rifles, police said. Police said that the six NLFT extremists surrendered to Deputy Inspector General of Police, Intelligence, Krishnendu Chakravertty in Agartala and deposited some arms and ammunition. Apart from the two Chinese rifles, they deposited a country-made sten gun, six live rounds 70 mm ammunition, two Chinese grenades, and some ammunition. The ultras also deposited some extortion notice books, and Bangladesh taka 1,000. "The group of six having been cornered and getting motivated, renounced the path of bloodshed and made a choice of peace. This group of NLFT has been operationally very active across the fence in Bangladesh. They joined the NLFT outfit in between 2017 and 2022," an official statement said. So far, 36 active members of NLFT surrendered before Tripura Police and security forces in the recent past. The statement said: "It will surely further pave the way for remaining fractions of NLFT to make a beeline for peace abjuring violence. It is definitely a committed effort by Tripura Police for ensuring the goal of law and order and development." The surrendered NLFT militants are Jatindra Tripura, 36, Mokhiram Tripura, 36, Pradip Tripura, 27, Romawia Reang, 50, Johanjoy Reang, 36, and Mani Charan Tripura, 38 Skyhorse Publishing has announced that it has acquired the assets of All Seasons Press, an upstart Florida-based conservative publishing house. I am thrilled to bring this impressive list of titles and authors into the Skyhorse family, said Skyhorse president and publisher Tony Lyons, in a statement, adding that All Seasons Press will become an imprint of Skyhorse Publishing. I look forward to working closely with its team to acquire and publish exciting new political, academic, and general interest books. The acquisition of All Seasons Press follows Skyhorses December 28 blockbuster deal to acquire Regnery, one of Americas best-known publishers of conservative authors. Regnery, with a list of about some 1,550 titles, is now an imprint of Skyhorse Publishing. "Skyhorse is the last of the great truly independent publishing companies and Tony Lyons, its publisher, has great courage, foresight and visionary business acumen, All Seasons Press majority shareholder Scott Bessent said, in a statement. Our family looks forward to adding our future titles and finance capabilities with his expertise and unique marketing capabilities. All Seasons Press launched less than three years ago, in June 2021, led by two conservative publishing veterans: Louise Burke, cofounder of Simon & Schusters Threshold Editions and a former president and publisher of S&Ss Gallery Books Group before leaving in 2017; and Kate Hartson, who was editorial director of Hachette Books Groups Center Street imprint. According to press materials, the press was established to take on the cancel culture that is destroying the publishing industry and the country, and pledged to be a publishing house that stands by our authors, rain or shine. Since its inception, the press has published books by a number of popular conservative authors, including Tucker by Chadwick Moore; In Trump Time: A Journal of Americas Plague Year by Trump advisor Peter Navarro; and Rush on the Radio: A Tribute from his Sidekick for 30 Years by former Rush Limbaugh producer James Golden (a.k.a. Bo Snerdley). But it has also made headlines with two high profile lawsuits involving its authors. In one controversy, author Lee Smith suggested that All Seasons Press was concealing that billionaire investor Scott Bessent was bankrolling the press, and, as reported in a Tablet Magazine article last November suggested his book was somehow fraudulently acquired. That suit was dismissed last October, and reps for All Seasons Press issued a scathing rebuke of Smith (and of Tablet Magazine), insisting that the author failed to deliver a suitable manuscript, while publicly confirming Bessents majority equity interest in the publisher. Until this case, the Bessent Family preferred to keep their support of ASP privateas with its other private businesses, the statement reads. The feckless Mr. Smith mistook discretion for stigma. More recently, All Seasons Press last fall filed suit against its author and former Trump chief of staff Mark Meadows in Florida state court to reclaim monies paid to Meadows as well as damages, claiming that the author made false statements about the 2020 election in his 2021 memoir, The Chiefs Chief, in breach of his publishing contract. The suit, which is still listed as live as of press time, cited increasingly credible media reports of Meadowss alleged statements to special counsel Jack Smith's investigatorsreportedly given in exchange for immunity from prosecution. In a January 3 filing, lawyers for Meadows moved to have the case dismissed. Plaintiffs lawsuit is an unveiled attempt to utilize the court system to recover investment funds on a book deal that was not as profitable as hoped, the Meadows filing states. Plaintiffs Complaint, labeled a claim for breach of contract, is based on nothing more than hearsay media reportsunsubstantiated and disputed media reports. Among its first moves with All Seasons Press, Skyhorse said it plans to relaunch Chadwick Moore's Tucker, as well as issue updated editions of other titles, including Navarros book. A former Trump adviser, Navarro was recently convicted on two counts of contempt of Congress for refusing to cooperate with Congresss investigation of the January 6, 2021 attack on the capitol, and this week was ordered to report to prison to begin serving a four month prison sentence. A new partnership between Crowne Plaza Bahrain and Bahrain Down Syndrome Care Centre aims at focusing on providing employment opportunities to talented individuals with Down syndrome, promoting inclusivity and diversity within the workforce. We are thrilled to collaborate with Crowne Plaza Bahrain in this groundbreaking initiative. This partnership is a testament to their unwavering dedication to promoting inclusivity. By providing employment opportunities, Crowne Plaza is setting a remarkable example that we hope will inspire other organisations to follow suit, said Ahmed AlAli, Executive Manager of the Society. The Bahrain Down Syndrome Care Centre is a renowned institution dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with Down syndrome through education, vocational training, and employment support. Charbel Hanna, General Manager from Crowne Plaza Bahrain, said: "We are delighted to extend our warm welcome to our new colleague Abdulla from The Down Syndrome Care Centre. We are proud to be the first property in this collaboration in the hospitality industry of providing employment opportunities from the society. Their presence not only add value to our team, but also enhances the overall guest experience. Together, we aim to create an inclusive work environment that serves as a shining example for the hospitality industry. TradeArabia News Service The Better Business Bureau is advising customers to use caution if doing business with Hidden Treasures Auction Barn LLC, an auctioneer in Willard. Consumers reported to the BBB that the company failed to pay for auction sales, failed to contact customers, and provided poor customer service, according to a press release. Due to the recent unanswered complaints, the BBB has given Hidden Treasures Auction Barn an F rating, the lowest on its scale. Reports consumers have given us about giving this business property and not being paid for it is disturbing, said Pamela Hernandez, regional director for the Springfield BBB. The business has an obligation to pay the consumers for the items it sold at auction. Cynthia Stotts from Spring Hill, Kansas, told the BBB she hired the business in May 2023 to remove some things from her late mother's house in Monett. She said the business took six weeks to remove the items, leaving many of them behind. She is still out a $3,500 payment from Hidden Treasures Auction Barn for those items. Stotts is confused, because she used the business with no problem in 2022. She said in that transaction, Hidden Treasures Auction Barn paid cash on the spot for items from her father's business and her grandmother's house. Stotts told the News-Leader they didn't draw up a contract then, so they didn't use one for the 2023 deal either. The 2023 deal also included a Jeep that once belonged to Stotts' father. The plan was for Roger Rice, one of the business owners, to make the bulk of his money on the Jeep. Stotts remembered Rice saying hed replace the battery and sell it. He would make additional profit on the contents of the house. My thought was, Let him come get the content. Once I get payment, I will send them the keys and give them the title for the Jeep, Stotts said. Thats not exactly what happened. Stotts uncle, who knew the Jeep was a part of the deal, gave Rice the keys during that six-week period of cleaning out the house. But Rice had still not paid Stotts. After he took the Jeep, Rice says it started overheating and leaking oil. But Stotts remained firm on the $3,500 she was owed. Story continues So then, I keep asking every week. Like, When are you sending me a check? When am I getting my money? she said. I felt like they were just giving me excuses to placate me. Stotts said first, the business owners claimed a relative was sick in the hospital. Then, the pump on their well broke, and they had to use the money from Stotts parents auction to fix it. Then another auction was planned, but the business didnt make as much money as they expected. Then, after agreeing to a $1,000-per-week payment plan, Stotts said Rice ghosted her. I got in the habit of calling him every day, Stotts said. Then my lawyer wants me to call the police. Stotts said she has repeatedly reached out to Rice to no avail. She says Rice hasnt returned her texts or phone calls since Oct. 26, 2023, when he asked for her mailing address. Stotts has also contacted police departments in Willard, Springfield, and Monett, as well as the Missouri Attorney Generals office with her case. But Stotts is still waiting for a check. "I won't be holding my breath on him reaching out," Stotts said. Rice told the News-Leader he has not received any contact from Stotts regarding her payment, but he will follow up with her. He also said hes willing to return the Jeep, for which he does not have the title. More: Customers say this Springfield auto shop took cars, money and provided only headaches "She said the Jeep was in good running order. Her uncle agreed to that too," Rice said. "I still have the Jeep, and Id be willing to give it back to her because it leaks oil. And I would have never agreed upon it if I knew all the problems the Jeep had. The BBB reported two other cases involving Hidden Treasures Auction Barn in Thursdays press release. One man from Ash Grove told the BBB he hired the auctioneer in April 2023 to sell some of his belongings before moving out of state for college. The man said he received a partial payment, but he is still owed more than $3,500. I have nothing to say about that, Rice said about that case. My lawyers taking care of all that. In another case involving the auctioneer, a Springfield woman took several large items to Hidden Treasures Auction Barn to be sold in April 2023. She agreed to a 30% commission and left an address for a check, but she never received one. She told the BBB she knew the items had been sold but she still had not been paid. She was supposed to come pick up her money, Rice said. And I even told her son that, but weve still heard or seen nothing from them. Hidden Treasures Auction Barn LLC was registered with the Missouri Secretary of State in September 2020. In addition to Rice, Kristen Roach is listed as a business organizer. This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: BBB warns against Willard business Hidden Treasures Auction Barn Were attempting to unravel the tangled web of literary influence by talking with the great writers of today about the writers of yesterday who inspired them. This month, we spoke with two writers known for their bold exploration of personal experience. Roxane Gay (Bad Feminist, Opinions) discusses the daring, sensuous writing of Marguerite Duras. Kaveh Akbar (Martyr!, Portrait of the Alcoholic) delves into the delightful disorientation of Amos Tutuola. Roxane Gay on Marguerite Duras This was my first time reading The Lover, and I really appreciated how it has that wonderfully fierce language of the inter-war French writers. What drew you to Duras? I love all her work, but I was and remain particularly enamored by The Lover, which is an exquisite book. I think it takes a lot of risks. It's uncomfortable, it's erotic, it's beautiful, and on a sentence level, it's magnificent. She was an interesting woman in her lifetime. There was this documentI think it was 1970 or 1971called the Manifesto of the 343 that a bunch of women, and French women in particular, signed that was written by Simone de Beauvoir, publicly declaring that they had had an illegal abortion. So she wasat the time, for her timevery radical and unapologetic. And I think that's just wonderful. She was very willing to press taboo buttons. Yeah, absolutely. The Lover was a book that she wrote late in lifeI think she was 70 years old when it publishedand I thought that was interesting. She really waited to write the novel, which is based on her own experiences growing up in Indochina. When a young person writes a book, you can say, ah, youth, but she knew what she was doing. She waited and she wrote it how she wanted to write it. And that's what every writer should do. You shouldn't worry about how it's going to be received. You should just tell the story you want to tell as truthfully and beautifully as possible. What lessons can writers learn from her? Risk taking. Remembering the beauty of words. The beauty of sentences. That it's okay to be sensuous and sensual. To write thinking about texture and tactility. To be unapologetic. It doesn't mean you have to always be right, but she was unapologetic about her beliefs. I don't even agree with everything that she believed or said or did, but I don't need to. This idea that affinity means that we are 100% aligned with the people that we read and watch is silly and unnecessary. That's not what it's about. In this series, weve already discussed Doris Lessing and Laurie Colwin, and something interesting Duras shared with them was that their women protagonists always seemed to possess some vague clandestine knowledge that the men didnt. Also there's this power that she has, this understanding that on the surfaceas a womanyou might be seen as the person who doesn't have power, but she was intimately aware of the power that she had. And I really admire that. I think we are who we are and everythinghow we write, how we understand the world, how we articulateis influenced by a lot of things, cultural identity being one of those things, life experiences being another. So its because of who she was uniquely. I think partly it was because of her childhood and growing up in a challengingfor her, at the timeenvironment, a different environment where she had power, but she was also at a disadvantage in some ways, especially economically. She was watching a country completely change, and she was watching that part of the world sort of create space for some people and push others out. And that absolutely shows up in her workwhat it means to be in the middle of that. I think all of those things contribute to who she is. And how she writes. When we're talking about brilliant writers from the 20th century, she should absolutely be in that conversation. Kaveh Akbar on Amos Tutuola What I love about The Palm-Wine Drinkard is how its language simultaneously has the sophistication of Joyce and the stammering of an actual drunk. The Palm-Wine Drinkard is such a messy novel. It's all over the place. The syntax is utterly uncanny and strange. The structure is deeply disorienting. It's just so radically itself. I think about mid20th century Nigerian writers writing about the experience of colonization. Of course the titan is Achebe, and Achebe writes these brilliant, searching, rigorous novels, where the Western gaze on the African continent is ironized in the novel form, and so the novel form is itself is a kind of irony, because Achebe is adopting the colonial medium and showing utter mastery of it. And he was a contemporary of Tutuolathey were writing around the same timeand so when Tutuola released Palm-Wine Drinkard, a lot of his contemporaries were like, We don't sound like this. We can speak English well. It was like it was almost embarrassing to have it be the sort of hit that it was, because it sounds so broken and the syntax is so utterly uncanny. I think a lot about the stages of colonial thinking and colonial art, and you have Achebe on one side, who is showing that he can outwrite anyone in this colonial tongue, right? I mean, you could put a paragraph of Achebes next to Nabokov or Morrison or any of the greatest prose stylists of the 20th century. Hes in that tier of prose stylists. But then, on the other hand, you have Tutuola, whos utterly ambivalent about the colonial gaze. He's just telling Yoruba folk tales and weaving them through what he calls a novel, and it is a novel because he calls it that, but it is so much more tied to Yoruba oral storytelling and just utterly unbeholden to the colonial gaze at all. And I find that so remarkable and stark and brilliant. I mean, Achebe deserves all of his flowers, I love Achebe and there's no reason to create some sort of oppositional binary. But I just I love Tutuola too, for being the exact opposite. What should writers take from him? He doesn't sound like anyone else. He sounds like himself. He sounds like his own utterly unprecedented experience of life on the planet Earth. We are all living utterly unprecedented lives that have never happened in the history of humanity. No one in the history of the world was born in Tehran on January 15th, 1989, and then came to America in 1991, and moved to Pennsylvania, and then New Jersey, and then Milwaukee. You know what I mean? Thats me. No one else has read the exact same books in the order that I've read them, and no one has seen the exact same movies in the order that I've seen them. I am a composite of all of my genealogies and geographies and histories, and so, when I shine the light of language through the prism of my unprecedented experience, an entirely new thing forms on the page. Right? That's the ambition of every writerto articulate an unprecedented consciousness. And you'd be hardpressed to find anyone who does that better than Tutuola. Even though Palm-Wine is perfectly legible, the disruptive language adds a layer of obscurity. Even the titlePalm-Wine Drinkard! Can language become too obscure? It depends on your project. Like you said, it's still entirely legible. I'm sure that there are parts of Yoruba storytelling and Yoruba traditions that are not legible to me as an Iranian guy living in America, or whatever. I've been to Lagos and I've been to Nigeria, but Im certainly no expert in Yoruba storytelling or Igbo storytelling. So I'm sure that there are parts of the book that are illegible to me. But there is enough there that I can feel the thrill of a language that's deeper than what it's representing. The representational capacity of language is vast, but it is finite. And the way that Tutuola strains the language against itself in the title and in the text alludes to something beyond the capacity of representation. It alludes to a greater story that is too momentous, or it alludes to the insufficiency of the English language to represent, which is so bold and beautiful and wise. These interviews have been lightly edited for clarity. Read More Writers Talking Writers Chuck Palahniuk on Ira Levin and Claire Dederer on Laurie Colwin Karl Ove Knausgard on Jorge Luis Borges and Olga Ravn on Doris Lessing Valeria Luiselli on Juan Rulfo and Mauro Javier Cardenas on Leonora Carrington Purdue Universitys Agricultural Alumni Association presented Certificates of Distinction to six recipients. The 2024 honorees are (from left): Freddie Barnard, Tom Bechman, Ben Carter, Steve Nichols, Bud Harmon and Don Lehe. (Purdue Agricultural Communications photo/Tom Campbell) WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. Purdue Universitys Agricultural Alumni Association presented six agricultural leaders with its Certificate of Distinction at the associations annual Fish Fry Feb. 3. The Certificate of Distinction is the highest honor the Agricultural Alumni Association has. Recipients of the award have contributed significantly to agriculture, forestry or natural resources through professional accomplishments, activity in professional organizations, community service work and other activities that make the nominees a credit to their profession. The 2024 awardees are Freddie Barnard, Tom Bechman, Ben Carter, Bud Harmon, Don Lehe and Steve Nichols. Barnard, former agricultural economics professor Barnard, of Calhoun, Kentucky, joined the Purdue faculty in 1982, and he used his 35 years at Purdue to bring education about agricultural finances and problem-solving research to many people in academia and in industry. Shortly after Barnard was hired, a five-year agricultural financial crisis began. In response, the new professor took leadership of the Indiana Bankers Association Midwest Agricultural Banking School. Barnard directed the Midwest Agricultural Banking School for 36 years, and in 2005, Barnard began leading the Advanced Agricultural Credit Seminar for graduates of the school. During his career, Barnard also coordinated the annual Indiana Bankers Agricultural Clinic and Advanced Agricultural Credit Workshop and was an original member of the Farm Financial Standards Council, founded in 1989. He helped establish the councils task force, commissioned by the American Bankers Association, which produced guidelines utilized at all levels of the agriculture industry over the decades. In 1994, he led a three-member team that taught farm financial reporting and analysis to 227 students at three Russian agricultural institutes. Barnard taught his students about real-world situations faced by lenders, producers and business managers through tools like the Purdue Agribusiness Management Simulation. His honors include three Agricultural Economics outstanding counselor awards, Purdues Book of Great Teachers (2013), the Frederick L. Hovde Award of Excellence in Education Service to the Rural People of Indiana (2015), the American Bankers Associations Blanchfield Award (2018, for a nonbankers contributions to agricultural and rural banking), and the Farm Financial Standards Councils Buel Lanpher Achievement Award (1993, to an academician for outstanding service) and Lifetime Emeritus Membership Award (2019). Bechman, long-time agricultural communicator Bechman, of Franklin, Indiana, has been a widely respected agricultural communicator for more than 40 years. Bechman, who graduated from Purdue in 1981, is the editor of Indiana Prairie Farmer magazine, one of 18 state and regional magazines in the Farm Progress family of publications. His work benefits leaders within the National FFA Organization and 4-H, as well as participants among other Indiana agriculture organizations. Bechman also directs the new products team at the annual Farm Progress Show, the nations largest outdoor farm event. More than 600 exhibitors spread over 90 acres to showcase the latest agricultural advancements, and Bechmans team writes about the new technologies. Its a daunting task, said one who wrote in support of Bechmans nomination, but Tom is a fearless leader who masters the details, encourages his team and gets it done. In 2023, Bechman was inducted into the Indiana Livestock Breeders Association Hall of Fame. The Purdue Agricultural Alumni Association named him a Distinguished Ag Alumnus in 2005. In 2017, the Indiana Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts bestowed on him its Friend of Conservation Award. Agriculture has changed a lot over the course of Toms career, a Purdue professor said, and he can take credit for helping stimulate some of that change with the spotlight hes shone on new technology and management recommendations. Indiana agriculture is stronger and better because of the contributions Tom has made throughout his career. Carter, a passionate alumnus Carter, of Salem, Indiana, has served the Purdue agriculture community in many ways large and small since he graduated from the university in 1972. After graduation, Carter went home to the family farm before returning to Purdue to take classes. Although Carter never finished his masters degree, he remained involved in the College of Agriculture, and he became assistant director of the Purdue University Crop Diagnostic Training and Research Center at what is now the Agronomy Center for Research and Education. I had much interaction with him coordinating field plots for forage-focused training to clientele, Keith Johnson, Purdue professor of agronomy, recalled. He was part of an effective planning and education-delivery team where his input was valued. Bens enthusiasm for agriculture is sincere and consistent. Hes remained upbeat about the present and future possibilities of agriculture. Cater later worked with the Indiana departments of Natural Resources and Agriculture. He produced statewide educational, financial and technical programs for rural and urban audiences, and assisted with the Indiana State Fairs Pathway to Water Quality effort. My dad isnt a Nobel laureate, a politician or a doctor/PhD of any kind, Cora Carter said. But Dads success is more than academic or professional. It is his tireless passion to serve the Purdue College of Agriculture and the Purdue Agricultural Alumni Association. Whenever they call, he answers. Harmon, former Animal Sciences department head Harmon, of Wildwood, Missouri, has used his passion for research, learning and teaching to cultivate animal science programs that address real-world problems. After four years in the Navy, Harmon earned degrees at Purdue and Michigan State, then spent 13 years as a professor at the University of Illinois. His 90 research publications focused primarily on amino acid nutrition. Ralston Purina made him director of swine nutrition research in 1975. His contributions were instrumental in the development of High Octane 2.6 feed, which influenced swine production across the globe. He returned to Purdue in 1986 and was the head of the Department of Animal Sciences until 1997. As Harmon fostered fundamental research and graduate student programs, his industry acumen contributed to the department establishing a mindset of working with private industry to solve real-world problems. In 1989, the U.S. Department of Agriculture cited him for his efforts during the 1988 drought. While advancing strategic collaborations in international agribusiness, Harmon was president of the American Society of Animal Science, was the lone American on a task force to support emerging democracies in Eastern Europe, lectured in 37 countries and earned six patents. In 2004, Harmon partnered with Bob Book to bring the Book Harmon Leadership Forum to life. The event allows undergraduate animal sciences students to learn from industry and academic leaders. The forum has featured about 30 national and state industry leaders since its creation. I believe Dr. Harmons impact is very significant when you consider his reach with students who live and work around the globe and have been shaped by his vision of developing leaders and providing scholarship opportunities, leadership experiences, industry connections and the confidence to impact our world in unique ways, said a Purdue animal sciences graduate. Lehe, former educator, legislator and advocate Lehe, of Brookston, Indiana, has diligently taught and advocated for Hoosier farmers across the many classrooms and committees he has served over the years. Lehe earned degrees in agriculture education and animal sciences from Purdue before returning to his hometown of Brookston, where he taught agriculture at Frontier High School and then at South Newton High School. Lehe later joined the Frontier school board, which he participated in for 18 years. Because of his work with swine on the family farm, Lehe eventually led the White County Pork Producers and the White County Agricultural Association, which runs the county fair. He was also on the board of directors for the Indiana Pork Producers Association. Lehe served in the Indiana General Assembly for 20 years. He became the vice chair of the states Interim Study Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources, where he helped fashion confined feeding operation rules and regulations. He led the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee and was a member of the Public Health and Environmental Affairs committees. He was an advocate for the Indiana corn checkoff program, legislation that promoted livestock health and expanding health benefit programs for farmers. As Lehe closed out his legislative service, he championed a bill to create the Indiana Center for Animal Policy. It would house the Indiana State Board of Animal Health and the newly named Indiana Board of Veterinary Medicine. I am personally grateful for his leap of faith to support the new center, state veterinarian Bret Marsh said. The citizens of Indiana will reap the benefits of his leadership for many decades to come. Nichols, nationally recognized swine judge Nichols, of Delphi, Indiana, has left a lasting mark on the swine industry in Indiana and beyond. Nichols earned animal sciences degrees from Purdue. While studying for his masters, he managed the Purdue Purebred Swine Unit. He was a Purdue Extension agent the title is now educator in Clark County for two years, then took the same job in a swine stronghold, Carroll County, in 1977. He retired in 2006 and now works with a consulting firm that helps livestock producers meet permitting, regulatory and environmental compliance requirements. At the Indiana State Fair in 2006, after more than 650 shows across the country, Nichols retired from swine judging. Considered one of the nations premier swine judges, he worked the World Pork Expo in Des Moines, Iowa, and many other major shows. At the 2023 Indiana State Fair, the fairs board presented Nichols with lifetime achievement recognition, and Indiana Farm Bureau designated Nichols a legend for his impact on the swine industry. Hes in the Indiana Livestock Breeders and Carroll County Agriculture Association halls of fame, and Indiana Pork Producers awarded him its Meritorious Service and Outstanding Young Pork Producer awards. Swine judging combines and highlights Steves love of pigs, people/kids and education, said an industry executive writing in support of Nichols nomination. Simply put, Steve was the most highly demanded swine judge in the U.S. due to his integrity, ability to quickly evaluate and discuss swine quality traits, and the way he positively interacted with exhibitors. About Purdue University Purdue University is a public research institution demonstrating excellence at scale. Ranked among top 10 public universities and with two colleges in the top four in the United States, Purdue discovers and disseminates knowledge with a quality and at a scale second to none. More than 105,000 students study at Purdue across modalities and locations, including nearly 50,000 in person on the West Lafayette campus. Committed to affordability and accessibility, Purdues main campus has frozen tuition 13 years in a row. See how Purdue never stops in the persistent pursuit of the next giant leap including its first comprehensive urban campus in Indianapolis, the new Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. School of Business, and Purdue Computes at https://www.purdue.edu/president/strategic-initiatives. Writer: Olivia DeYoung, odeyoung@purdue.edu Source: Danica Kirkpatrick, 765-494-8593, dkirkpat@purdue.edu Agricultural Communications: 765-494-8415; Maureen Manier, Department Head, mmanier@purdue.edu Agriculture News Page Property details: PLEASE READ ENTIRE AD, ALL FEES DUE AT TIME OF SALE ARE DISCLOSED(The Pictures In This Ad Are General In Nature)Please note that we are not affiliated with nor do we represent the resort described in this item ad. (Due to West Virginia guidelines on purchasing Real Estate; West Virginia Residents will not be able to participate in this Auction) WYNDHAM GRAND DESERT128,000 POINTSEVEN YEAR USAGETIMESHARE FOR SALE Points: 128,000Anniversary: JanuaryUsage: Even Year Starting 2024Trading Company: RCI... Price: $ 1 Seller State of Residence: TEXAS Property Address: 265 E. Harmon Drive City: Las Vegas State/Province: Nevada Type: Attractions Number of Bathrooms: 0.5 Zip/Postal Code: 89109 Location: 891**, Las Vegas, Nevada You will be redirected to eBay Nearby 89109 Dr. Anthony Fauci will reflect on his expansive career in public health in a new memoir. ADVERTISEMENT Publisher Viking Press told news outlets Thursday that Fauci's memoir, On Call: A Doctor's Journey in Public Service will come out on June. 18. "I hope that this memoir will serve as a personalized document for the reader to understand better the daunting challenges that we have faced in public health over the past 40 years," Fauci said in a statement. "I would also like to inspire younger individuals in particular to consider careers in public health and public service." Fauci, 83, has worked in public health for nearly 50 years. He previously served as director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases at the National Institute of Health and was the NIH's AIDs coordinator. He served under seven presidents, going back to Ronald Regan. President George W. Bush in 2008 awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his "his efforts to advance the understanding and treatment of HIV/AIDS." Fauci also gave updates on the Zika and Ebola viruses during the Obama administration and served as chief medical adviser for President Joe Biden until his retirement in 2022. He gained worldwide notoriety for his work during the COVID-19 pandemic. Fauci was a strong advocate for vaccines and following public-safety guidelines, which drew the ire of the Trump administration and many conservatives. "You have a devastating public health challenge in the midst of a very divisive society, in a very hotly contested political year. You put all of those ingredients together and it's been quite challenging," Fauci told People magazine in 2020, when the magazine recognized him as one of the People's four people of the year. FOLLOW REALITY TV WORLD ON THE ALL-NEW GOOGLE NEWS! Reality TV World is now available on the all-new Google News app and website. Click here to visit our Google News page, and then click FOLLOW to add us as a news source! His clash with the Trump administration has made him the subject of Republican and anti-vax criticism, with prominent figures releasing their own books on the matter, such as Sen. Rand Paul's Deception: The Great COVID Cover-Up and Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s The Real Anthony Fauci. Fauci was mired in another medical controversy prior to COVID. Activist group ACT Up condemned Fauci in the 1980s for what it called his indifferent response to the spread of AIDS. Fauci, however, won over many critics by meeting with ACT Up and agreeing to let people with HIV serve on research committees and accelerate the process of finding treatments. Fauci now serves as a distinguished university professor at Georgetown University. Key Insights Daldrup & Sohne's estimated fair value is 7.63 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity Current share price of 9.70 suggests Daldrup & Sohne is potentially 27% overvalued Peers of Daldrup & Sohne are currently trading on average at a 27% discount In this article we are going to estimate the intrinsic value of Daldrup & Sohne Aktiengesellschaft (ETR:4DS) 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. For those who are keen learners of equity analysis, the Simply Wall St analysis model here may be something of interest to you. See our latest analysis for Daldrup & Sohne What's The Estimated Valuation? We use what is known as a 2-stage model, which simply means we have two different periods of growth rates for the company's cash flows. Generally the first stage is higher growth, and the second stage is a lower growth phase. 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) forecast 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (, Millions) 1.40m 2.25m 4.15m 4.25m 3.65m 3.30m 3.08m 2.95m 2.86m 2.81m Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x2 Analyst x2 Analyst x2 Analyst x2 Analyst x2 Est @ -9.59% Est @ -6.55% Est @ -4.42% Est @ -2.92% Est @ -1.88% Present Value (, Millions) Discounted @ 6.7% 1.3 2.0 3.4 3.3 2.6 2.2 2.0 1.8 1.6 1.5 ("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St) Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = 22m Story continues We now need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all the future cash flows after this ten year period. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 0.6%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 6.7%. Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033 (1 + g) (r g) = 2.8m (1 + 0.6%) (6.7% 0.6%) = 46m Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= 46m ( 1 + 6.7%)10= 24m 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 46m. The last step is to then divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of 9.7, the company appears slightly overvalued at the time of writing. Remember though, that this is just an approximate valuation, and like any complex formula - garbage in, garbage out. dcf Important Assumptions We would point out that the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate and of course the actual cash flows. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Daldrup & Sohne 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 6.7%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.334. 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 Daldrup & Sohne Strength Earnings growth over the past year exceeded the industry. Debt is well covered by cash flow. Weakness Earnings growth over the past year is below its 5-year average. Interest payments on debt are not well covered. Expensive based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value. Opportunity Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the German market. Threat No apparent threats visible for 4DS. Moving On: Valuation is only one side of the coin in terms of building your investment thesis, and it ideally won't be the sole piece of analysis you scrutinize for a company. DCF models are not the be-all and end-all of investment valuation. 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. Why is the intrinsic value lower than the current share price? For Daldrup & Sohne, we've compiled three relevant items you should look at: Risks: For example, we've discovered 2 warning signs for Daldrup & Sohne that you should be aware of before investing here. Future Earnings: How does 4DS'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 XTRA 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. High inflation and rising housing costs have exacerbated the dire financial situation for graduate students. In the past few years, the housing prices in Athens have increased the most compared to similarly sized cities and UGAs stipend increases have consistently fallen below the rate of inflation in recent years. In the past two years, graduate workers have essentially been forced to take a pay cut. Assuming we still have a Modi-led majority government after May 2024, there is no guarantee that reforms will move at anything more than a snail's pace, though we must be thankful even for that, notes R Jagannathan. IMAGE: The Rajya Sabha during the Budget Session of Parliament, February 8, 2024. Photograph: Sansad TV/ANI Photo The one big lesson we can learn after a decade of United Progressive Alliance coalition rule and another with a majority government is this: Timely and well-thought-out economic reform is challenging in both situations. While it would be churlish to deny that more reforms have been undertaken during the last 10 years under Narendra Modi than in the previous 10 under Manmohan Singh, this comes with a rider. Even under majority rule, some very important reforms are difficult to legislate and implement. In the case of the reforms already implemented -- the Jan Dhan, Aadhaar and mobile-based subsidy reforms (JAM), the goods and services tax (GST) and the insolvency and bankruptcy code (IBC), for example -- these were achieved either through legal workarounds, or still remain far from complete. As for agriculture, labour, land and other reforms, the less said the better. Even basic initiatives like privatisation and asset sales have stalled after Air India was handed over to the Tatas. Grand plans for privatising 'non-strategic' banks have been put on the back burner, and asset sales have done reasonably well only in the roads sector. Assuming we still have a Modi-led majority government after May 2024, there is no guarantee that reforms will move at anything more than a snail's pace, though we must be thankful even for that. Huge political challenges will complicate the scenario after 2024 as the delimitation exercise and the women's reservation loom. Neither of these can be done merely through legislation. They have to involve deep political negotiations over months, and with parties that are not well disposed to the Modi government, and significant political give-and-take, something that the Modi government has been unable to do so far. This is not because the government has been unwilling to make deals, but Mr Modi's popularity makes it tougher for the Opposition to agree even to reasonable compromises. The fear is that anything done in the national interest will end up politically benefiting Mr Modi, not them. This became clear when GST was implemented, and more specifically in the Ram Mandir case. In the latter, almost all mainstream parties were theoretically okay with the temple, but ended up boycotting the January 22 inauguration, fearing that it would give Mr Modi even more political advantage. The Opposition is dishing out unaffordable freebies in some states precisely because it fears that it cannot otherwise overcome the Modi charisma. One unexpected consequence of JAM-based reform is that subsidies can now be guaranteed to reach the intended beneficiary. The obverse side of the subsidy reform coin is that voters now believe that politicians will indeed deliver on their electoral promises. There is thus nothing that prevents any party from promising the moon, since it is the taxpayer who will bear the cost. So, the first priority of the Modi government, assuming it wins in May 2024, is to build trust with the Opposition. It has to assure them that it will seek their cooperation at every turn, and must designate senior ministers who can continuously negotiate and get things done in a multi-partisan manner. This should be the norm even if the National Democratic Alliance gets a majority in the Rajya Sabha and does not need the Opposition for key legislation, including Constitutional amendments. Consider the primary economic challenge of jobs. The Modi government, and some state governments, are trying to overcome the youth unemployment problem by recruiting more people in government services before election time. This is unsustainable, and hence not a solution. Though there is scope for more government recruitment, even this is becoming impossible when the bulk of state resources is being used for election-oriented 'revadis'. The jobs problem is structural in nature. The factors inhibiting jobs growth, despite strong GDP increases over the last 20 years, are the following. One is the poor sequencing of factor market reforms. In 1991, we liberalised the capital market, but not land and labour. Net result: The corporate sector replaced labour with capital. China's massive growth surge was because it allowed foreign companies to set up shop using dirt-cheap labour, which got no legal protection till recently. Two, over the last 15-20 years, technology has begun replacing labour even in some segments of the services sector-- from banking to telecom and even software. The entire middle sector -- which is where good quality, stable jobs are to be had -- will shrink relative to the available labour force in the coming decade. Consider how many of us still need to go to a branch for banking services. The point is this: We did not reform labour laws when we should have (in the 1990s), and even now we are scared to do it, though it is still worth doing. The production-linked incentive scheme could improve manufacturing's share of GDP, but it won't create commensurate jobs growth. A few reform ideas are worth considering -- but none will deliver in spades without multi-party consensus. For creating more jobs, the apprentice scheme should be pushed hard by both the Centre and states, for real skilling happens in real jobs, not skilling centres alone. Apprenticeships provide cheap labour and skilling opportunities, but the unions may see it as a ploy to gradually reduce regular labour recruitment. The unions have to be politically won over. Given that most jobs are becoming contractual and gig-oriented, we can assume that most additional jobs will be created by new companies and small and micro businesses. Schemes to make credit available (already underway) to them, and providing some form of social security for temporary workers, which may need government subsidies, are vital. Most jobs will come up in urban centres, which is why a new Centre-state deal must involve the transfer of more power to municipalities and local bodies. Just as states complain that the Centre has too much fiscal power, the same applies to them as their urban centres are over-dependent on them for resources. If most new jobs are going to be generated in urban centres, this can't happen without states sharing more of their resources with urban areas, and additionally giving them fiscal room to raise additional resources. The ideal political situation is one where fiscal resources are devolved from the Centre to states and further to urban and rural communities. The bottom line is a multi-party political deal and this needs the next Union government to make this the focal area for reform. If this transformation does not happen after May 2024, India will continue to deliver sub-optimal economic results, especially on jobs. R Jagannathan is editorial director, Swarajya magazine Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com The prime minister's insistence that his voice cannot be suppressed left me both puzzled and amused. He has at his call, the government's official news dissemination/publicity channels, the pliant newspapers and television channels that were eager to prostrate themselves before a powerful government and yet, the dominant voice thinks it is in competition with other voices! exclaims Shyam G Menon. Photograph: ANI Photo Bingeing is no longer associated with just drinking. The most common bingeing nowadays centers around that emergent plenty of our times -- media. COVID-19 and the lockdown, which followed, made bingeing on media more popular than before. One side effect of bingeing on media, ranging from news to films and music, is a brain that is active with voices within, even in the most silent of worlds. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's promise in his reply to the Motion of Thanks to the President's Address in the Rajya Sabha that his voice cannot be suppressed reminded me of mind binged on media in world otherwise silent. The best way in which, this may be explained would be to study the contrast between 2024, the year wherein the National Democratic Alliance, as per Modi's words, targets more than 400 seats in Parliament via general elections expected in April-May and the last time 400 plus was obtained by a single party in the Lok Sabha -- the seats the Congress won in the 1984 elections following former prime minister Indira Gandhi's assassination. That time, the BJP had won a mere two seats. The Congress is now nowhere near what it used to be; it is a shadow of its former self. But so is the country as regards the right to expression if 2024 and 1984 are compared. In the years following the Emergency of 1975-1977, the country and its sentinel organisations were zealous guardians of democracy and freedom of expression. Until 2014 and the first Modi government, when signs of a return to autocracy started to manifest. By the second term of the said regime, curbs on free speech and criticism, accompanied by harassment of critics and Right Wing-infiltration of sentinel agencies, were clearly the order of the day. Today, few speak up without looking over their shoulder. IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Damodardas Modi delivers his remarks at the farewell of retiring Rajya Sabha MPs, including his predecessor Dr Manmohan Singh, February 8, 2024. Photograph: Sansad TV/ANI Photo Amidst this, only one chorus of voices has droned unchallenged -- that of the BJP's apex leadership, courtesy captive news agencies, pliant private media outfits and legions of cult followers willing to echo what Modi says. Outside of this, India's political noise stood largely ignored and therefore, substantially subdued. It has been a relatively silent, political world with the right of far-reaching vision exclusive domain of one party. A world in which only the voice of the leader and his cohorts, drone on and on. From India's GDP and superpower-future to finding peace in Ukraine and Israel to how our students should tackle their exams -- he has held forth on everything under the sun. Consequently, the prime minister's insistence that his voice cannot be suppressed left me both puzzled and amused. He has at his call, the government's official news dissemination/publicity channels spanning radio and television, the pliant newspapers and television channels that were eager to prostrate themselves before a powerful government -- all of them together called fondly by critics as the godi media -- and yet, the dominant voice thinks it is in competition with other voices! Where are the other voices, except the only voice and political theme that goes round and round in India's media-binged head? Well maybe, the silence of a world gagged into compliance, can be unnerving to those used to unending chatter about themselves 24x7. What else can one say if Modi with all the avenues for self-amplification already at his disposal, emphasises that his voice won't be suppressed? Where has there been suppression of his voice since 2014? Photograph: ANI Photo The claim of being a voice beyond suppression wasn't the only memorable aspect from that Rajya Sabha speech, reported in the media. A gentleman called Jawaharlal Nehru, who belongs to my great grandfather's generation appeared to still haunt the Prime Minister despite so much of communications arsenal at the latter's disposal. It's a bit like President Joe Biden blaming his predecessors Franklin Roosevelt or Dwight Eisenhower for what is currently going wrong in the US. Or I blaming my great grandfather and grandfather for my life, screwed up at my own hands. The simple thing Modi and the BJP need to understand is that many of us in the Indian electorate lack the luxury of blaming our ancestors for what has gone wrong. Do so; waste time so and we miss our berth in the rat race-present. So, what's the point in a contemporary Indian politician, who is seeking our votes, faulting Nehru for everything gone wrong in India? What it actually tells me is just the opposite -- that these folks avowed to criticising anything pre-BJP and non-RSS as inapt for India, envy the very people they love to loathe and therefore cannot stop highlighting Nehru's claimed mistakes for fear that they don't measure up to the charisma and vision of the collective leadership, which won India her independence. I can think of no other reason why even after a decade in power spent unbuilding and rebuilding India as per the Right Wing's agenda (with majoritarianism to boot), in the prime minister's address in the Rajya Sabha before the 2024 general elections, Nehru returned to haunt -- or found resurrection in -- Modi's sentences. I thought by now at least, our rulers saw themselves to be as big as Nehru and all the other founding personalities of India that is Bharat. Appears I was wrong. Perhaps another term in power will accomplish the required dose of exorcism to silence the ghosts of the past. In any case, there is no shortage of appetite for rituals in the present regime, for said type of cure. Some more prostration to relics from the past, another fistful of tradition, ritualistic religion, heritage mongering and celebration of Right-Wing icons should do the trick. The more one binges on it, the less one hears anything else and the more one imagines being suppressed despite the indulgence of one's own excesses. Shyam G Menon is a freelance journalist based in Mumbai. Disclaimer: These are Shyam G Menon's personal views. Feature Presentation: Rajesh Alva/Rediff.com 'There is something in our desh ki mitti that has held us together.' 'So many conquerors, colonisers, cultures came and went, but we withstood them and rose up again.' IMAGE: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami during the programme organised by the Bharatiya Janata Party, to commemorate the passing of the Uniform Civil Code bill, in Dehradun, February 8, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo The Waqf Board office in Dehradun is a neat building with a large open ground in the premises where a group of men are standing in the winter sun. Shadab Shams's office is down a corridor on the first floor. Shams is the chairperson of the Waqf Board of Uttarakhand which functions under the Central Waqf Act and is a statutory body under the aegis of the state government. Above his chair are framed pictures of President Draupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, state Governor Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh (retd) and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. An orange towel is draped on the back of his chair, a replica of the Kaaba in Mecca is placed on his table, beside a computer and printer along with an invitation to a recitation of the Ramayan and a copy of the Milli Times newspaper. A police constable and the editor of a local Muslim paper accompany him as he enters the office. The scholar, chairman and member of the Bharatiya Janata Party recently said that Uttarakhand will make four modern madarsas that will teach the NCERT syllabus, including Sanskrit as a subject. The first of the modern madrasas is expected to start functioning by March. "Along with Hafiz-e-Quran, Muslim children will learn about Shri Ram, Krishna, Yeshu, Bhagwan Mahavir, we will teach about our idol Mohammad Sahab and all the great men of other religions as well," he says. "The children from madarsas should become doctors, engineers, scientists and walk in the footsteps of A P J Abdul Kalam. That is why we have named the modern madarsas after Dr Kalam," he says. "Nationalism will be taught at the modern madarsas. Our children are ready to sacrifice their all for Ma Bharti," Shadab Shams tells Rediff.com's Archana Masih. Was the incident that happened in Haldwani on Waqf or private land? It was nazul land [reversion of property to the state or property of the government]. I feel it is a conspiracy to obstruct the UCC. The bill was passed smoothly and this is an attempt to create problems. What are the proposed changes proposed in the madarsas? How will the modern madarsas that the Waqf Board in Uttarakahand is planning to build be different? We have separated the madarsas from the Waqf board. The work of Waqf is to look after idgah. graveyards, mosques etc -- property used by Muslims is called Waqf for user. There are 117 madarsas that are the property of the Waqf board in Uttarakhand. We realised that we are not working hard enough on the education of Muslim children. So, we decided that we will convert these into model madarsas. In phase I, we have decided to start with making four modern madarsas in Dehradun, Udham Singh Nagar, Nainital and Haridwar. We will follow the NCERT syllabus in the modern madarsas. Most students in madrasas are poor, many are orphans -- don't they have the right to join the mainstream of the nation? It is not the job of the Waqf Board to run madarsas, but we said that we will try as a model because mere talking is not going to help. You have said the syllabus will include stories and lessons from the Ramayana which has received both support and criticism from Muslim scholars? Along with Hafiz-e-Quran, Muslim children will study the NCERT syllabus. The new syllabus will also include Sanskrit as a subject. Then we were asked whether the teaching of Sanskrit will also include Shri Ram, I said we will teach that also. We said we will teach Shri Ram, Krishna, Yeshu, Bhagwan Mahavir, we will teach about our idol Mohammad Sahab and all the great men of other religions as well. Shri Ram personifies an ideal for India -- a man who sacrificed his kingdom and went into exile to honour his father's vow. Who will not want a son like him and why should we not teach a lesson like this? The teaching will not be confined to just the Quran. The children from the madarsas should become doctors, engineers, scientists and walk in the footsteps of A P J Abdul Kalam. That is why we have named the modern madarsas after A P J Abdul Kalam. The madarsas will be steeped with nationalistic, Nation First thinking. Nationalism will be taught here. We will also have a retired colonel to provide physical training to the students. Our children from the madarsas are ready to sacrifice their all for Ma Bharti. They will know that they too have to go and fight for the country and sacrifice their life for the nation's honour. That is the thought process we want to inculcate. IMAGE: A glimpse of the aftermath of the violence that broke out at Banbhoolpura, following an anti-encroachment drive in Haldwani, February 8, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo What is the curriculum being taught in the madarsas now? The syllabus of the Madarsa Board is taught in the madrasas under the guidance of a maulana and mufti. Even if the Madarsa Board tries to add other subjects, it is not binding on them to include the new subjects in the curriculum. They are not compelled to include it; if they were willing, then this change would have happened much earlier. Our idea is to prepare a model and present it -- and if it is liked it can be followed. Once we have made the model, I am certain that people will accept it. I hail from the Muslim community. I will not want any harm or adverse affect on my community. This nation has given us the Constitutional right to worship any faith, any God, but you have to respect your ancestors and elders and think of them as your idols. The prime minister has said India has to become Vishwa Guru. We will only achieve that when Hindus and Muslims together take the lead. When Indian Muslims show the world that this is what Islam is and the world should learn from us. When Indian Christians show the world that be Christians like us. When Indian Sikhs show the world that no one else can be a better Sikh than us. Only then will we be able to tell the world that we have the capacity to become Vishwa Guru. We have to be the best version of ourselves. For that to happen, we have to adopt change. We have to correct our drawbacks within our own religions and move forward with nationalistic thinking and fulfil the dream of being Vishwa Guru. IMAGE: Pushkar Singh Dhami greets people as they shower flower petals on him and burst crackers after the passage of the Uniform Civil Code Uttarakhand 2024 Bill in Dehradun, February 7, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo What are the things that need to be left behind and what are the corrections needed? The malpractices or issues that lead to friction. How long will we destroy and rebuild? Let us leave the past behind -- Chodo kal ki baatein, kal ki baat purani, naye daur mein likhenge, mil ke nai kahani, hum Hindustani. Let's move ahead with new thoughts; how long will we keep talking about past grievances? The Quran says you follow your religion and I will follow mine. Religion is adopting the good. Let us adopt the good from all religions. Like Iqbal's words in Sare Jahan se Accha say: Yunan o Misr o Ruma, sab mit gaye jahan se, ab tak magar hai baki namo nisha hamara, kuch baat hai ki hasti mit ti nahi hamari, sadiyon raha hai dushman, daure zama hamara. There is something in our desh ki mitti that has held us together. So many conquerors, colonisers, cultures came and went, but we withstood them and rose up again. In 77 years, we have made such progress that we can work towards being Vishwa Guru which itself shows that there is something unique in the mitti and paani of Bharat. If we all walk together, we will create a beautiful Bharat and we are doing this sincerely under Modiji. There are some problems that will arise. Some feel they have been marginalised, but that is a misconception. Photograph: Seema Pant for Rediff.com IMAGE: Shadab Shams at the Waqf Board office in Dehradun. How will the Uniform Civil Code impact Muslims? A uniform law for everyone is a step in the right direction. It is something the framers of the Constitution had envisioned for India where a citizen is not seen through the lens of her/his religion. That can happen only when there is one law for everyone. People are concerned that there will be interference in their religious customs. But there is no interference. The Christians will do their church wedding, Hindus will do their pheras, Muslims will do their nikaah and all will get it registered. If the UCC could damage religion, then why would developed countries like America, the UK, France, Germany have a uniform civil law? Their mosques, temples and churches don't have loudspeakers on these structures -- each one does their own ibadat [worship] but don't disturb the other. There is uniformity, and aren't Muslims, Sikhs, Hindus living there? The priority must be nation first. We have to have to inculcate such enlightened thoughts if we have to progress. If we don't do that, then we are not being fair to our country. We have the best civilisation. Our culture and sabhyata comes from Shri Ram. We will assimilate the best of Ram and of our Auliyas [saints] and move towards making a beautiful Bharat. An India where we don't disrespect any religion or any faith. The intention is clear. The intent is good. Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc (NYSE:CMG) showcases robust systemwide sales with a strategic focus on high-quality food sourcing and rapid service. Despite strong market presence, CMG faces challenges in food safety and competitive fast-casual dining space. Opportunities for expansion and technology integration present potential growth avenues for CMG. External threats such as food safety concerns and market volatility remain significant factors for CMG's strategic planning. On February 8, 2024, Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc (NYSE:CMG) released its annual 10-K filing, providing a comprehensive overview of the company's financial health and strategic positioning. As the largest fast-casual chain restaurant in the United States, CMG reported systemwide sales of $8.6 billion in 2022, reflecting its dominance in the industry. With a footprint of nearly 3,200 stores, predominantly company-owned, CMG continues to focus on high-quality food sourcing, competitive pricing, and convenience to maintain its market lead. This SWOT analysis delves into the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats as revealed by CMG's latest SEC filing, offering investors a nuanced understanding of the company's prospects and challenges. Decoding Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc (CMG): A Strategic SWOT Insight Strengths Brand Power and Market Position: Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc (NYSE:CMG) stands out with its strong brand recognition and a loyal customer base. The company's commitment to "Food with Integrity" resonates with consumers, driving consistent traffic to its restaurants. CMG's systemwide sales of $8.6 billion in 2022 underscore its market dominance, particularly in the fast-casual dining segment. The brand's focus on high-quality ingredients and sustainable practices further strengthens its position, appealing to a growing demographic of health-conscious and environmentally aware customers. Operational Efficiency and Innovation: CMG's operational strategies are a testament to its strength. The company's emphasis on running successful restaurants is evident in its efficient service model and digital engagement. With 37.4% of its 2023 total revenue derived from digital orders, CMG has effectively harnessed technology to enhance customer convenience and drive growth. The introduction of Chipotlanes for mobile order pickups and partnerships with third-party delivery services have expanded CMG's reach, catering to the evolving preferences of its customer base. Story continues Weaknesses Food Safety Concerns: Despite rigorous quality assurance and food safety protocols, CMG has faced challenges with food-borne illnesses in the past, which have impacted its reputation. The 10-K filing acknowledges that food safety risks cannot be completely eliminated, and any incidents can adversely affect the brand's image and sales. The reliance on fresh produce and traditional cooking methods, while a strength in terms of food quality, also increases the risk of food safety incidents compared to competitors who may use more processed ingredients. Supply Chain Vulnerabilities: CMG's supply chain is subject to volatility due to factors such as weather, trade tariffs, and global events. The company's commitment to responsibly sourced ingredients, while commendable, also means that it operates within a smaller, more concentrated market, which can lead to supply shortages and increased costs. These vulnerabilities necessitate a robust risk management strategy to ensure consistent supply and cost control. Opportunities International Expansion: CMG's development agreement with Alshaya Group to open restaurants in the Middle East represents a significant opportunity for international growth. The expansion into new markets offers CMG the chance to tap into new customer segments and diversify its revenue streams. With careful execution and adherence to its core values, CMG can replicate its domestic success on a global scale. Technological Advancements: The company's strategic focus on amplifying technology and innovation presents opportunities for further growth and productivity. CMG's investment in digital platforms and data analytics can enhance customer engagement, streamline operations, and create a more personalized dining experience. As technology continues to shape consumer behavior, CMG's proactive approach positions it well to capitalize on these trends. Threats Competitive Market Dynamics: The fast-casual dining industry is highly competitive, with numerous players vying for market share. CMG faces competition from both established chains and emerging concepts that emphasize high-quality ingredients and convenience. The rise of food delivery services also adds to the competitive landscape, as they offer customers a wider array of dining options. CMG must continue to innovate and differentiate itself to maintain its competitive edge. Regulatory and Economic Uncertainties: CMG operates in an environment where regulatory changes and economic uncertainties can pose threats to its business model. Changes in labor laws, minimum wage increases, and food safety regulations can impact operating costs and profitability. Additionally, economic downturns or shifts in consumer spending patterns can adversely affect restaurant traffic and sales. CMG must remain agile and responsive to these external factors to sustain its growth trajectory. In conclusion, Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc (NYSE:CMG) exhibits a robust financial performance with significant strengths in brand equity and operational efficiency. However, it must navigate weaknesses such as food safety concerns and supply chain vulnerabilities. Opportunities for international expansion and technological advancements offer promising avenues for growth, while competitive pressures and regulatory uncertainties present ongoing threats. CMG's strategic focus on quality, innovation, and expansion positions it well to address these challenges and capitalize on its market opportunities. 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. 'The sense of Constitutional propriety and political morality seems to be vanishing fast.' 'There are many things in today's politics of governance which Manmohan Singh would have never dreamt of saying or doing.' IMAGE: Then prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh greets his successor Narendra Damodardas Modi at what was then 7, Racecourse Road in May 2014. Photograph: @PMOIndia/Twitter Retired IAS officer, 85-year-old Thottuvelil Krishna Pillai Ayappan Nair has the unique distinction of having served in the prime minister offices of Inder Kumar Gujral, Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Dr Manmohan Singh. Mr Nair was principal secretary and advisor to Dr Singh, with the rank of minister of state. He joined the Punjab cadre of the Indian Administrative Service in 1963, served as the state's chief secretary before being assigned to the Centre as a secretary, Government of India in different capacities. Rediff.com's Shobha Warrier met Mr Nair at his residence in Thiruvananthapuram and spoke to him about the prime ministers he had served and, of course, Prime Minister Narendra Damodardas Modi. Part one of a multi-part interview: How different is the politics you were associated with and the politics of today? My association with politicians as a government official is very old, but politics and politicians are changing by the day. Talking about the politics and the politicians I was familiar with may not be very relevant today, and I feel out of tune with the times. Briefly put, there is no comparison between the highly divisive, aggressive, no holds-barred politics of today, and the politics of old times. The soft spoken, self-effacing, scholarly statesman like Manmohan Singh as PM was a far cry from our ebullient, supercharged, supremely self-confident PM of today driven by his missionary zeal to build an India of his vision, that is Bharat. Dr Manmohan Singh was not a political leader in the usual sense when he became prime minister. True, he was one of the most successful finance ministers who steered the country in the throes of a financial crisis, and was well conversant with issues of governance. The position of prime minister came to him not through cut-throat manipulative political processes or Chanakya-like political acumen. He was not an elected PM, and that made a world of difference. He was fully aware of the constraints on him. His attitude to politics and his approach to matters relating to governance were also different from those of the present prime minister. As I said, there is no comparison. You mean, he approached issues from the point of view of an administrator and an economist, and the other elected prime ministers including Narendra Modi from the political point of view? That's right. From the way I look at it, present day politics and present day governance are totally attuned to electoral prospects and calculation. Ways and means of coming back to power are the most determinant factor influencing governance today. Photograph: Adnan Abidi/Reuters Would you say, by any means? Well, I am tempted to go to the extent of saying, by almost any means. I know it is a very sweeping statement to make. So, let's put it this way, 'by all means' which would conceivably bring electoral advantage, provided they are within the limits of the law and the Constitution. Here again, I would have to say that at times attempt have been made to stretch the law and the Constitution, which have evoked severe criticism. The sense of Constitutional propriety and political morality seems to be vanishing fast. There are many things in today's politics of governance which Manmohan Singh would have never dreamt of saying or doing. I am quite certain about it. Therefore, I would say the basic thrust and objective of governance has changed. Electoral success in the pursuit of absolute power seems to be the raison d'etre of governance today. As a person who was associated with the Indian political scene till Dr Manmohan Singh's time, does it worry you to see the way things are happening now? Yes, in some ways there are developments which cause concern. Let me hasten to add that many progressive changes and welcome developments are also taking place today, sometimes at breakneck speed. The prime minister deserves great credit for initiating and pursuing badly needed and highly desirable development projects embracing mobility, communication, healthcare, education and emerging technologies. Would you say, you didn't see this kind of push even during UPA1? No, not to this extent. IMAGE: Then prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh speaks to a farmer in Maharashtra. One criticism against the Modi government is that the gap between the rich and the poor has widened, and the main beneficiaries of the development activities are very few capitalists. Did it happen this way earlier too, or is it more now? The criticism is valid. Manmohan Singh was never against industrialists or corporates, but the extent to which corporates are promoted by the current government is unparallel in the history of India. An Oxfam study which I read recently shows clearly how the rich are getting richer, and the poor are not getting uplifted at the same speed and are lagging far behind. Questioning the reliability of the study, the government claims that many lakhs of people have been lifted above the poverty line during the last 9 years. Even if it is granted, still, there is a huge mass of impoverished people who are denied the minimum basic necessities of life. Manmohan Singh would have given greater attention and priority to such plans and activities like MNREGA which would have directly benefitted the poorer sections. The trickling down effect of economic developments is not happening significantly for benefiting large sections of marginalised society. That's one basic grievance against the present government. At the same time, as I said earlier large-scale development is taking place in terms of building better infrastructure. And the prime minister pursues and monitors implementation of projects more vigorously than any other prime minister in the past. While giving full credit to the prime ,inister for his development agenda and the GDP growth, the question is, what kind of impact do they have on the large mass of people. Regrettably hunger, malnutrition and unemployment still persist, and make life miserable for millions. Trumpeting GDP growth to the deprived is a joke on them. Part 2 of the Interview: 'If Modi wins a third term...' Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com 'The othering of religious groups inevitably leads to violence.' 'It is sadly a narrative that has echoed through the centuries since man first discovered God.' IMAGE: The Se Cathedral at Old Goa, an example of Portuguese architecture, is one of the largest churches in Asia. Photograph: Kind courtesy Abhiomkar/Wikipedia.org/Creative Commons When God Died is a provocative title for a book. It is set in Goa in the early years of Portuguese rule, around the time of the inquisition in the province which targeted not only non-Christians but also new converts who were accused off continuing to practise their old religions. The persecuted lost their liberty, their wealth, were often exiled and flogged other times. Some were even burnt at the stake. Vatsala Mendonca's novel When God Died follows a young woman from Portugal who travels to Goa to marry. Tragedy accompanies her at every step. "Despite a dark history there is a rich syncretism in Goa. You see this harmonious assimilation in the fact that respect and reverence is shown for all religions...Goans are Goans first and then Hindus or Christians or Muslims," Vatsala Mendonca tells Rediff.com Senior Contributor A Ganesh Nadar. IMAGE: An 18th century French sketch showing a man condemned to be burnt alive during the Goa inquisition. The stake is behind him to his left, the punishment is sketched on his shirt. Photograph: Kind courtesy Los Angeles County Museum of Art/Public domain/Wikimedia Commons Could you tell me something more about the inquisition in the early years of Portuguese rule in Goa? The inquisition in Goa was one of the darkest periods of Portuguese colonial rule, a time when the fundamental principles of humanity were eviscerated. It was a religious tribunal set up to suppress heresy and enforce Catholic orthodoxy. It reached Goa's shores in 1560 and lasted for 250 years except for a hiatus of four years in the eighteenth century. It was abolished only in 1820. It was a weapon used primarily against those who had converted to Christianity. but were accused of still following their ancestral religions. Sentences ranged from flogging to exile to working in the galleys. Some accused were even burned at the stake. IMAGE: The Auto-da-fe procession of the Inquisition at Goa. An annual event to publicly humiliate and punish the heretics, it shows the chief inquisitor, Dominican friars, Portuguese soldiers, as well as religious criminals condemned to be burnt in the procession. Photograph: Kind courtesy Wellcome Collection 43219i/Wikimedia.org Do you feel that there is no drama in today's Goan life that you based your story in the 17th century? Hahaha! That's not true! History fascinates me. Even my first novel Shadow Of The Palm Tree pivots around the presence of African slaves in Goa during the Portuguese era. When I first learned about the inquisition I knew I had to write a story set in that time. Perhaps I find the drama of the past more interesting. Photograph: Hitesh Harisinghani/ Rediff.com IMAGE: Vatsala Mendonca reading a chapter from When God Died at the book launch at the Bombay Yacht Club, January 17, 2024. Your book is filled with sorrow from end to end. Was there nothing positive about the Portuguese invasion of Goa? I don't think there can ever be anything positive about invasion. But having said that I must also admit that of all the colonisers who came to India, the Portuguese were considered the most genial. They sought to Lusitanise the natives. But unlike the British they lacked a broader colonial vision. Whereas trade and defense flourished, agriculture and industry suffered. A paucity of opportunities catalysed the migration of hundreds of thousands to British India, British Africa and even the Portuguese colonies of Mozambique and Angola. IMAGE: An illustration of the ruins of the headquarters of the Goa inquisition, from L'Homme et La Terre by Elisee Reclus (1905). Photograph: Kind courtesy Elisee Reclus/Public domain/Wikimedia Commons Your book is set in the 17th century, but your audience is in the 21st century. Why have you used the language of that period which is archaic most times and sometimes incomprehensible? I don't agree. I think the language I have used is universal. In my novel God dies at the hand of the inquisition, a tribunal established to protect his word. The death of god is a metaphor for the loss of a universal moral truth. Unfortunately God continues to die every day. The heroine is shown as being unlucky throughout the story. Maria was a product of her times, a victim of a patriarchal fate. She was a so-called orphan of the king, a girl whose father had died in service to the crown and who was rewarded with the king's patronage. She sails to Goa to marry a man selected for her by the Crown. By sending these girls to the colonies the Crown helped settlers find Portuguese wives. The Crown rewarded the men with a handsome dowry. Unfortunately for Maria her fiance dies a few hours before the wedding and she is forced to marry a man who has no moral compass. We are shown several episodes which display the villainy of the protagonist but we are never told why he became as such. Peter, Maria's husband, is also a product of his times. He was a colonial subject whose family had converted to Christianity to protect their lands and lifestyle. He is also the son of a second son forced to live off the largesse of his uncle. The two black women in the story are said to be extraordinarily beautiful. Were they supposed to be very good looking in those times? Noor is a mulatto, the daughter of a Portuguese father and African mother. The coming together of different genes often creates the most exotic fruit! But, of course, there is no norm. I just chose to make Noor and the other slave Jeremiah, who is pure African, good looking. IMAGE: The Chapel of St Catherine, built during the Portuguese occupation in Old Goa. Photograph: Kind courtesy Soman/wikipedia.org/Creative Commons On one hand we are told that the inquisition was particularly severe at that time and on the other hand we have the villain's sister living as Radha in his house, a well-known Hindu name. Her Christian name was Ruth. Many people at that time had two names. The names they were given at birth and the names they were given when they converted. Marco being destroyed by Peter using the inquisition seems understandable but he receiving his property seems improbable. It may seem improbable, but it is a historical fact. The inquisition confiscated the property of the accused and a part of it was given as a reward to the person that exposed them. It was to encourage people to rat out on their neighbours and friends and relatives. IMAGE: The Hindu-Christianity Unity Memorial at Miramar beach, Goa. Photograph: Kind courtesy Nikhil Kulkarni/Wikipedia.org/Creative Commons Anyone reading your book will come away with a feeling of sorrow, deep sorrow. Do you expect them to recommend the book to anyone? Yes! It will appeal to the serious reader. The subject is serious and so can't be handled lightly. The Inquisition was a particularly dark period of our history that needs to be told and the knowledgeable reader will appreciate it. How come the Portuguese never expanded beyond Goa? They did go beyond Goa to Daman, Diu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli. Remember that Bombay belonged to the Portuguese till it was gifted to Charles Il as part of Catherine of Braganza's dowry. Goa was the jewel in the Portuguese crown. Its ports enabled them to access the spices of the East and wrestle the trade monopoly away from their traditional enemies -- the Moors. What is the message you are trying to give through your book? History is littered with religious conflict. The othering of religious groups inevitably leads to violence. It is sadly a narrative that has echoed through the centuries since man first discovered God. IMAGE: The Shantadurga temple in Goa. Photograph: Kind courtesy Nkodikal/Wikipedia.org/Creative Commons Goa attracts tourists from all over the World. Goans are known to be fun loving, lovers of music, dance and Feni. How did they become like this after facing 250 years of Portuguese tyranny? The Goans believe in Alegria or wellbeing more than they believe in Susegado or indolence. Despite a dark history there is a rich syncretism in Goa. You see this harmonious assimilation in the fact that respect and reverence is shown for all religions. Hindus revere St Francis Xavier and Christians Shantadurga. Goans are Goans first and then Hindus or Christians or Muslims. Please click here for interesting glimpses from the book launch Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff.com The Election Commission on Friday said nearly 97 crore Indians will be eligible to vote in this year's Lok Sabha elections. IMAGE: Women voters show their voter ID cards to cast their votes at a polling booth. Photograph: ANI Photo It also said over two crore young electors in age group of 18 to 29 years have been added in the voters' list. There has been a six per cent increase in registered voters from 2019, when the last Lok Sabha polls were held. "The largest electorate in the world -- 96.88 crore are registered to vote for the forthcoming General Elections in India," the EC said. The gender ratio has increased from 940 in 2023 to 948 in 2024, the poll panel said. The Commission has put special emphasis on purity and health of the electoral roll along with disclosures and transparency in the revision of electoral rolls, an official pointed out. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar had explained at a press conference in Pune the various tasks involved in revision of electoral rolls along with participation of political parties at every stage. By the time the enemy aircraft is 50 km away, the Akash-NG's computers have calculated the launch trajectory and impact point and launched the missile. IMAGE: DRDO conducts the successful flight test of a new-generation AKASH missile off the Odisha coast, January 12, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo The New Generation Akash (Akash-NG) missile, being developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), was successfully flight tested last month from the integrated test range (ITR), Chandipur, off the Odisha coast. 'The flight test was conducted against a high-speed, unmanned aerial target at a very low altitude. During the flight test, the target was successfully intercepted by the weapon system and destroyed. [The test] has validated the functioning of the complete weapon system consisting of the missile with indigenously developed radio frequency seeker, launcher, multi-function radar and command, control and communication systems,' DRDO said after the test. 'The system's performance was also validated through the data captured by a number of radars, telemetry and electro-optical tracking systems deployed by ITR, Chandipur,' it added. The Akash surface-to-air missile (SAM) is one of the early successes of DRDO's Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP). The Indian Air Force has already bought five units of the Akash for defending its airfields in the North East from enemy fighter aircraft. The army bought two units of Akash and ordered another two. The Akash-NG is a major improvement over the older Akash. Its weight has been halved to 350 kilogram from the Akash's 700 kg. The lighter Akash-NG flies up to an altitude of 25 km and has a range of 30 km; a significant improvement over the Akash's altitude ceiling of 20 km and its range of 25 km. Some of this performance comes from the brand new, two-pulse, solid rocket motor that replaces the old ramjet on the legacy Akash missile. In addition, the Akash-NG incorporates a DRDO-developed seeker in the missile's warhead that locks onto the target at the terminal phase, continuously guiding the Akash-NG to the impact point. This performance enhancement underlies DRDO's post-test statement: 'The Akash-NG is a state-of-the-art missile system capable of intercepting high speed, agile aerial threats. The successful flight test has paved the way for user trials.' The Akash-NG detects, tracks and shoots down enemy aircraft in seconds. The surveillance radar detects enemy fighters at ranges out to 80 km and initiates the launch sequence. By the time the enemy aircraft is 50 km away, the Akash-NG's computers have calculated the launch trajectory and impact point and launched the missile. Within a minute, the missile reaches the impact point 30 km away and strikes the target. Bharat Electronics Limited builds the Akash missile system for the IAF, while Bharat Dynamics Limited is the prime integrator for the army. The ministry of defence had earlier announced that the Akash has indigenisation levels above 96 per cent. In December 2020, the Union Cabinet approved exporting the Akash missile system and, in January 2021, the missile was on display at the Republic Day parade. East Asian countries such as Vietnam and the Philippines, which are wary of Chinese aggression, have displayed interest in buying the Akash SAM. There is also interest from several African countries. Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com Agriculture scientist M S Swaminathan's research as a plant geneticist addressed the issue of food insecurity and helped small farmers augment their income by enhancing productivity. IMAGE: In his long career, Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan demonstrated what he advocated -- developing new varieties for food security -- and ensured bumper crops by working side by side with farmers. Photograph: ANI Photo He dedicated his entire life to improving agriculture and the income of farmers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced that the Bharat Ratna would be conferred on M S Swaminathan in recognition of his monumental contributions to the nation in agriculture and farmers' welfare. "He was motivated more by the results of what he did on the ground and the people's love and affection," his daughter and former Chief Scientist and former Deputy Director General, WHO, Dr Soumya Swaminathan said about his work and dedication. Over the years, his contribution made the country that once depended on American wheat to feed its people in the 1960s, transform into a foodgrain surplus nation. Fondly addressed as MS by his friends and colleagues, Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan, in his long career demonstrated what he advocated -- developing new varieties for food security -- and ensured bumper crops by working side by side with farmers. Born in Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu on August 7, 1925 to Dr M K Sambasivan and Parvati Thangammai, Swaminathan played a significant role in changing the trajectory of the agriculture sector when farmers were dependent on archaic farming techniques. He began his research career with cytogenetic studies on potato in 1949 at the Agricultural University, Wageningen, the Netherlands, and later at Cambridge University, where he obtained his PhD in Genetics in 1952, according to an article in Current Science (Living legends in Indian science). His noteworthy contribution to cytogenetics and breeding of potato, led to his appointment in the Central Rice Research Institute (CRRI-Cuttack) to work in the indica-japonica rice hybridisation programme to develop fertiliser-responsive varieties of rice suitable for the rice growing tracts in India. In later years, he would reminisce that the indica-japonica hybridisation programme at CRRI was indeed the early harbinger of the Green Revolution movement in India. The work resulted in varieties like ADT27 and RASI cultivated in Tamil Nadu. MS had written that seeds of the green revolution were first sown in the fields of CRRI through the indica-japonica rice crosses, and decided that the plant type should be tailored to be functionally responsive to external application of fertilisers. In 1988, he founded the M S Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) a not-for-profit trust, with the proceeds of the first World Food Prize he received in 1987. It is dedicated to "accelerate the use of modern science for sustainable agricultural and rural development." He handled many official roles, including that of the chairman of the National Commission on Farmers, and President of the Pugwash Conferences on Science and World Affairs. He held a string of positions including that of Director of the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (1961-72) and Director General of Indian Council of Agricultural Research and Secretary to the Government of India, Department of Agricultural Research and Education (1972-79). He was awarded the World Food Prize for developing and spearheading the introduction of high-yielding wheat and rice varieties in India during the 1960s when the country faced the prospect of widespread famine. Swaminathan, a former Rajya Sabha member (2007-13), received 84 honorary doctorate degrees from universities around the world. He spent two decades in research and administrative positions at agricultural institutes. "So, he always used to remember the farmers that he met. Wherever he went in India, farmers would come and meet him and convey their gratitude," Soumya said. Swaminathan died on September 28, 2023. He was 98. Polyglot, statesman and scholar, the inscrutable PV Narasimha Rao was often referred to as the Chanakya of Indian politics, the prime minister known for initiating far-reaching economic reforms and also for his skilful political manoeuvring. IMAGE: A file picture of All-India Anti-Terrorist Front chairman and former Youth Congress chief MS Bitta with former PM PV Narasimha Rao (left), who is conferred with the Bharat Ratna award. Photograph: ANI Photo Rao, who will be conferred India's highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna, more than 19 years after his death, was prime minister from 1991-1996. He was the first prime minister from the south, the first Congress leader from outside the Nehru-Gandhi family to complete a full five-year term and the man who steered India through the turbulent early 1990s. In a sign of his erudition and political acumen, he pacified Muslim clerics in chaste Urdu after the 1992 Ayodhya demolition. Later that week, he quoted shlokas from the Bhagwad Gita while addressing IAS probationers at his residence. In perhaps a rare show of emotion, he said a day before becoming prime minister that he felt "overwhelmed" and "like a colossus" at the same time. Rao has interestingly never been out of the political discourse. The hardcore Congress member, whose legacy in the party is a subject of continuing discussion, was referred to by some, including his party colleague Mani Shankar Aiyar, as the country's 'first BJP PM' for his ambivalent ideological stands. And several in the Bharatiya Janata Party have alleged that Rao was disowned by his own party. Born to an agrarian family in Vangara village of Karimnagar district of undivided Andhra Pradesh on June 28, 1921, he was educated at the Osmania, Bombay and Nagpur Universities from where he took his BSc and LLB degrees. The political baptism began early -- in 1938 during a protest against the Nizam government's ban on singing Vande Mataram in his college. A staunch and trusted loyalist of the Nehru-Gandhi family before some say friction began, Rao had the rare distinction of holding important non-economic portfolios at the Centre -- External Affairs, Defence and Home -- at different times in the 1980s. In what is the stuff of political folklore, Rao, whose famous pout was a cartoonists' delight, became prime minister just when he was walking away from the spotlight. He did not contest the 1991 elections, had virtually wound up his establishment in the national capital and was said to have reconciled to political retirement. But fate willed otherwise. Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated on May 21, 1991. Rao became consensus candidate for the Congress president's post that put him in the prime minister's seat after the elections. He headed a minority government for some time and later acquired majority strength in the Lok Sabha under controversial circumstances which his detractors said was acquired through dubious means. Rao, or PV as he was often known, had the dubious distinction of being the first prime minister to face criminal charges and accusations. He was finally cleared in all three cases he faced trial for -- the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha MPs' bribery case, the St Kitts forgery case and the Lakhubhai Pathak cheating case in which controversial godman Chandraswamy was involved. The relief in the last case the Lakhubhai Pathak case -- came just a few months before his death on December 23, 2004 at the age of 83. Rao also came under attack from his own party colleagues and Opposition leaders when his government pursued the 'hawala' scam in which they were implicated. The scandal, however, finally met a judicial death. His economic reforms agenda primarily focused on 'liberalisation, privatisation, globalisation', often referred to as LPG. The Rao-Manmohan Singh duo is credited with pulling back the country from the economic brink it was facing at the height of a severe foreign exchange crisis. However, one of the most important events that marked his rule was the demolition of the disputed structure at Ayodhya in December 1992 and the nationwide communal riots that followed. He was also Union home minister when riots erupted after the assassination of Indira Gandhi in 1984 and was even then blamed for "criminal inaction". In 1993, a year after the securities scam, Big Bull Harshad Mehta created a sensation when he is alleged to have handed over to Rao a suitcase with Rs 1 crore at his residence. It took a while for Rao to come out of the political crisis that the muck had left behind. Not many expected him to remain prime minister for long. Some even called him the 'stop-gap' premier given his age, ailing health and lack of charisma and grassroots support. Yet, confounding political pundits, the 'meek inheritor' soon emerged a 'power player' with several regional parties, including the Telugu Desam, Shiv Sena and Janata Dal, splitting. The multiple scams made his government unpopular, leading to the defeat of the Congress in the May 1996 Lok Sabha polls. After Sonia Gandhi took over the party reins he did not contest Lok Sabha polls. Thereafter, Rao was back to what he did best writing. He came out with an over 700-page semi-autobiographical tome The Insider, released by his arch-political rival but a close friend and another former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. A Sahitya Ratna in Hindi, Rao was fluent in several languages, including Spanish. Taking a cue from Rajiv Gandhi, Rao was quick to adapt to technology. He was over 60 years old when he became a computer addict, spending hours on his word processors when most politicians were not computer literate. The word processors came in handy to draft the New Education Policy when he was asked to head the newly created human resource development ministry in 1986. The Navodaya Vidyalaya scheme was his brainchild. Later as prime minister, 'the consensus man' implemented V P Singh's pet project, the Mandal Commission report. Rao's prime ministership also marked an upswing in Indo-US relations after a summit meeting with the then American President Bill Clinton in Washington in 1994. A man of many interests, he liked music, cinema and theatre, while his special interest was in Indian philosophy and culture, writing fiction and political commentary, learning languages, writing poems in Telugu and Hindi and keeping abreast of literature in general. State awards often convey a message beyond the public contributions made by their recipients and the Modi government's pick of five of them, with three of four politicians in the list firmly belonging to the non-Bharatiya Janata Party sphere, for Bharat Ratna in this year of national elections is no exception. IMAGE: Union Home Minister Amit Shah meets veteran BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani at his residence and congratulates him on the announcement of Bharat Ratna for him, in New Delhi on February 6, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sought to send out the message that the ruling BJP, unlike its predecessors at the helm, is not guided by parochial politics in recognising contributions in the public life, as the party looks to break new ground during the polls. Former prime minister Charan Singh and ex-Bihar chief minister Karpoori Thakoor were ideological fellow travellers despite political differences and championed an ideology and constituencies which were not a familiar territory for the BJP for decades before Modi after taking the helm in 2014 successfully connected with them substantially. Former prime minister P V Narasimha Rao was a lifelong Congressman and is considered the political architect of economic reforms which changed the country's course. However, Rao's own party's 'shabby' treatment of him and his legacy after he lost power in 1996, as often highlighted by the BJP which blames the Gandhi family, has made him a figure of sympathy and even respect in pro-BJP circles for his contributions. That he was a Telugu and the only south Indian prime minister to have served a full term will give the BJP a fresh plank to make fresh inroads in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Charan Singh, who quit the Congress in 1967 and ended its hegemony in Uttar Pradesh by becoming its first non-Congress chief minister the same year, mobilised agrarian communities in north India, paving the way for the rise of parties wedded to social justice and anti-Congressism for many years. A passionate proponent of farmers' interest, his appeal cut across regions and castes as he rallied farmers, a community which has had several run-ins with the Modi government over a variety of issues in parts of north India. Singh remains a revered figure among Jats, a caste which has not been a keen supporter of the BJP in the states of their influence like Uttar Pradesh and especially in Rajasthan and Haryana. The BJP is also in alliance talks with opposition Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) member Rashtriya Lok Dal, which is led by Singh's grandson Jayant Singh. The Rajya Sabha member reacted with delight to the Bharat Ratna announcement, saying 'dil jeet liya' (won the heart). Incidentally, it was Charan Singh who had brought down India's first non-Congress government headed by Morarji Desai over the 'dual membership' issue, a reference to those leaders of Janata Dal who were in the Jana Sangh and continued to maintain ties with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. He even briefly joined hands with the Congress to become prime minister but lost power quickly as the promised support from the party's leader Indira Gandhi never came. A BJP leader said the choices of Singh and agricultural scientist M S Swaminathan, the only non-politician among the five Bharat Ratna awardees this year, exemplify the Modi government's commitment to the agricultural sector, as both have significantly championed its cause. That Rao and Swaminathan hail from south India show that the Modi government values the contribution and expertise from all corners of the country, he added. In the coming days, the BJP will be highlighting the difference in the approach of the Modi government and previous Congress governments in bestowing the national awards as it has often accused the opposition party of using political prism to select them. Modi has often noted that Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi were given Bharat Ratna when they were prime minister while likes of Dr B R Ambedkar and Sardar Patel were recognised decades after their death. Among the latest awardees, Swaminathan is also a popular figure among farmers as much for pioneering the green revolution as for authoring a report which has made recommendations to boost their income. A stalwart backward leader, Thakur is especially remembered for recognising the need for ensuring separate reservation for the Extremely Backward Classes, a pioneering concept in the 70s. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who considers himself Thakur's followers, joined the National Democratic Alliance days after he was named for the Bharat Ratna honour. Veteran BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani (96) is the only surviving member among the five recipients of the honour. The Bharat Ratna for him has been seen as the ruling dispensation's recognition of a leader who was pivotal to the rise of the BJP and the spread of its ideology despite his differences with the party leadership over the elevation of Modi as its prime ministerial candidate in 2013. While Singh passed away in 1987 and Thakur a year later, Rao died in 2004 while Swaminathan breathed his last in 2023. The Bharatiya Janata Party has issued a whip to its MPs in Lok Sabha as well as Rajya Sabha to ensure their presence in Parliament on Saturday on account of some "very important" legislative business, which will be tabled for discussion and passage. IMAGE: Proceedings of the Lok Sabha are underway during the Budget Session of Parliament, in New Delhi, February 9, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo Though there was no official word on the nature of the business on the last day of the last session before the Lok Sabha polls, some party leaders said there is a possibility that it may touch the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had attended the consecration ceremony at the temple on January 22. The event generated a nationwide appeal and the BJP believes that the temple issue will help create a positive atmosphere in its favour in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. The government has in the past thrown a surprise by introducing some significant items at the last minute. Days after convicts in the Bilkis Bano case surrendered before jail authorities on Supreme Court orders, one of them has been given a five-day parole by the Gujarat high court due to the death of his father-in-law, a police official said on Friday. IMAGE: Protest against the remission of sentence granted to 11 convicts in Bilkis Bano case by Gujarat government, at Azad Maidan, in Mumbai in September 2022. Photograph: ANI Photo Convict Pradip Modhiya, a resident of Dahod district, has been released from Godhra district jail on parole. The Supreme Court had last month quashed the remission of sentence of all 11 convicts in the 2002 post-Godhra riot case of gangrape of Gujarat woman Bilkis Bano and murder of her seven relatives. "The Gujarat high court has given a five-day parole to one convict Pradip Modhiya due to the death of his father-in-law. This is between the court and jail as they are in judicial custody," Deputy Superintendent of Police of Dahod district Visakha Jain said. "He does not have to report to the police," she said. Sources in Godhra district jail, where the convicts are lodged, said they have released Modhiya on parole on the high court orders. Judge M R Mengdey allowed a five-day parole for Modhiya instead of one month sought by him in his application filed before the HC citing the death of his father-in-law. In August 2022, the 11 convicts, serving a life sentence, were granted premature release from jail after the Gujarat government accepted their remission applications in accordance with its 1992 policy, citing their 'good conduct' during imprisonment. The convicts hail from Singvad and Randhikpur villages under Singvad taluka of Dahod district neighbouring Panchmahal district, where Godhra is located. The top court had on January 8 annulled the remission the Gujarat government had granted to the convicts while slamming the state for being "complicit" with an accused and abusing its discretion. The SC then ordered the convicts, who were released from Godhra district jail on Independence Day in 2022 after being in prison for 14 years, to go back to jail within two weeks. They surrendered before Godhra jail authorities on January 21. Quashing the remission order, the Supreme Court had ruled that the Gujarat government lacked jurisdiction to grant premature release to the convicts as the trial in the 2002 case had been held in Maharashtra. Six rioters were killed in the violence that broke out over the demolition of an illegally built madrasa, officials said Friday as curfew remained enforced in Uttarakhand's Haldwani town. IMAGE: Vehicles set on fire after violence erupted in Haldwani's Banbhoolpura area on Thursday during an anti-encroachment drive. Photograph: ANI Photo More than 60 people were hurt Thursday as local residents hurled stones and petrol bombs at municipal workers and the police, forcing many police personnel to seek refuge in a police station which the mob then set on fire. Seven people, including a journalist, were under treatment Friday at three different hospitals. Three of them were said to be in a serious condition. Others had been discharged. Altogether, six rioters were killed, superintendent of police (City) Harbans Singh told PTI. A day after the clashes, with curfew in force since 9 pm Thursday, Haldwani's the Banbhoolpura area looked deserted. Stones were strewn on the streets and there were charred remains of torched vehicles. On Friday, no further incidents of violence were reported from the locality where the madrasa -- which included a "structure" where prayers were held -- were held. Over 1,000 police personnel remained deployed in the city, close to Nainital, officials said. The demolished structures were on government land, and municipal workers and the police acted after court orders, they said. Officials said stones were pelted at them from rooftops, where they appeared to have been stocked. At least some of the alleged rioters killed in the violence had gunshot wounds. Nainital district magistrate Vandana Singh confirmed that orders to open fire, with instructions to shoot the rioters in the leg, were issued when the mob attacked the police station. Uttarakhand police chief Abhinav Kumar said action will also be taken under the stringent National Security Act against those found to be involved in the attacks on police personnel. "I don't know how I survived," a policewoman told a television channel from her hospital bed, as she talked about being targeted by local residents who had resisted the demolition. In Delhi, Bharatiya Janata Party MPs said that the Haldwani violence appeared to be a "conspiracy" and warranted strict action against the guilty. In Parliament, Indian Union Muslim League MP ET Mohammed Basheer said such incidents should not happen, or the country will suffer. He also referred to the Uniform Civil Code bill passed this week in Uttarakhand assembly. DGP Kumar said the situation was under control to a large extent with the imposition of curfew but they are focused on bringing back normalcy in the town within the next 24 hours. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami visited Haldwani, meeting some of the injured. He termed the violence a 'planned attack', and said the stockpiling of arms, stones and petrol bombs suggested this. "Our women police personnel were brutally thrashed. They even tried to throw a journalist into the flames. It was an attempt to disrupt the atmosphere of social amity and peace for which Uttarakhand is known," he told reporters. "Action will be taken. Law will take its own course," he said. "Every rioter involved in arson and stone pelting should be identified and strictest action taken against them," Dhami had said earlier in the day. Four people were arrested up to around noon Friday, and three FIRs registered, the police said. Around 15 or 20 people seem to have been involved in instigating the violence, a police official said. "The riot on Thursday was totally unprovoked and a handiwork of unruly elements who were not trying to protect the structures being demolished, but targeting the authorities, the state machinery and law and order," DM Singh said. The police dispersed the mobs that hurled stones and petrol bomb-hurling mob without using much force until the police station was attacked, she said. Some in the mob were also armed with crude weapons, including country-made pistols, she said. Internet services in Haldwani were suspended to prevent rumours being spread, officials said. Schools are ordered closed for now. The DM said the structures stood on encroached government land and were demolished after serving an advance notice, in compliance with a court order. The demolition drive began after the municipal corporation had taken complete legal possession of the two structures, she added. She said the demolition exercise was not an isolated incident targeting particular structures but part of an anti-encroachment drive being carried out in the state to free illegally-occupied government land, Singh said. "The structure that is being called a madrasa was illegal. In official records, it was not registered either as a madrasa or a religious structure," she said. Stone pelting from the rooftops of houses was 'planned' as no stones were found on the rooftops during an advance inspection of the area, the DM claimed. The rioting by the local people area began 30 minutes into the demolition exercise, she added. In Delhi, Shiv Sena-Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray MP Priyanka Chaturvedi blamed the violence on "polarisation" created by BJP. "I am hoping the Home Minister will take cognisance," Chaturvedi said, adding, "If the police have been attacked it is shameful, it shows how hooliganism is prevailing in BJP-ruled states." The BJP's Rajya Sabha MP Harnath Yadav said, "The incident in Haldwani is a conspiracy. Bombs, country-made pistols and other weapons were used, and government officials and police were attacked. There should be an order to shoot rioters at sight... There is no need to be lenient with them." Kimberly-Clark Corp exhibits a robust portfolio of leading brands in the personal care and tissue segments. Strategic acquisitions and divestitures reflect the company's agile approach to optimizing its product mix. Global presence with a focus on expanding in emerging markets presents significant growth opportunities. Operational and market risks, including raw material price volatility and competitive pressures, pose challenges. On February 8, 2024, Kimberly-Clark Corp (NYSE:KMB) filed its annual report, revealing a company that has cemented its status as a leading manufacturer in the tissue and hygiene industry. With a diverse portfolio of brands such as Huggies, Kotex, and Kleenex, Kimberly-Clark has demonstrated resilience and strategic acumen in navigating a complex global market. The financial overview from the latest 10-K filing indicates a company with a strong market capitalization of approximately $46.7 billion as of mid-2023, and a solid customer base, with Walmart Inc. accounting for around 13% of consolidated net sales. The sale of the Neve tissue brand and related assets in Brazil, alongside the acquisition of Thinx Inc., underscores the company's proactive approach to refining its business operations. As we delve into the SWOT analysis, we'll explore how Kimberly-Clark's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats shape its market position and future prospects. Decoding Kimberly-Clark Corp (KMB): A Strategic SWOT Insight Strengths Brand Power and Market Presence: Kimberly-Clark Corp's strength lies in its powerful brand portfolio, which includes household names like Huggies and Kleenex. These brands have cultivated deep consumer trust and loyalty, contributing to a dominant market presence, particularly in North America, where over half of the company's sales are generated. The company's strategic branding and product positioning have enabled it to maintain a competitive edge in the personal care and consumer tissue segments. The acquisition of Thinx Inc. further diversifies the company's offerings, tapping into the growing market for reusable period and incontinence underwear. Story continues Operational Efficiency and Innovation: Kimberly-Clark's commitment to innovation and operational efficiency is evident in its product development and supply chain management. The company's advanced technologies in fibers, nonwovens, and absorbency have led to the creation of innovative products that meet evolving consumer needs. Continuous improvement activities and cost reduction programs have resulted in material cost savings, manufacturing waste reduction, and productivity gains, which have positively impacted the bottom line. The company's focus on sustainability aligns with consumer preferences for environmentally responsible products, further enhancing its market position. Weaknesses Dependency on Raw Materials and Price Volatility: A significant weakness for Kimberly-Clark is its reliance on raw materials like cellulose fiber and petroleum-based components, which are subject to price fluctuations. Despite efforts to manage these risks, including pricing structures and revenue growth management strategies, the company remains vulnerable to increases in pulp prices and the availability of recycled fiber. This dependency could adversely affect earnings if adjustments to finished product prices do not keep pace with raw material cost increases. Concentration of Sales to Major Customers: Kimberly-Clark's sales concentration with major customers, such as Walmart Inc., represents a potential weakness. While this relationship underscores the company's strong market position, it also exposes Kimberly-Clark to risks associated with changes in purchasing patterns or negotiations with these large customers. Any significant shift in the business relationship with Walmart, for instance, could have a material impact on Kimberly-Clark's sales and financial results. Opportunities Expansion in Emerging Markets: Kimberly-Clark has identified targeted growth opportunities in emerging markets such as Latin America, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. These regions offer significant potential for market penetration and expansion, given the rising demand for personal care and hygiene products. By leveraging its global brand recognition and adapting to local consumer preferences, Kimberly-Clark can capitalize on these opportunities to drive future growth and diversify its revenue streams. Product Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives: The company's focus on product innovation and sustainability presents opportunities to meet the growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products. Kimberly-Clark's sustainability strategy, which includes reducing the use of new fossil fuel-based plastic and greenhouse gas emissions, aligns with global environmental goals and consumer trends. Innovations in product design and materials can open new market segments and reinforce the company's reputation as a responsible corporate citizen. Threats Intense Market Competition: Kimberly-Clark operates in a highly competitive market with several major players. The competition is based on brand recognition, product innovation, quality, price, and marketing capabilities. Some competitors are larger and more diversified, which could pose a threat to Kimberly-Clark's market share. The company must continuously innovate and effectively market its products to maintain its competitive position. Global Economic and Political Risks: As a global entity, Kimberly-Clark faces risks associated with economic and political instability in the markets where it operates. Fluctuations in currency exchange rates, trade policies, and regional conflicts can impact the company's financial performance. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has also introduced volatility in demand for products and changes in consumer behavior, which could continue to pose challenges for the company. In conclusion, Kimberly-Clark Corp (NYSE:KMB) exhibits a strong foundation built on leading brands and operational excellence. However, it must navigate the challenges of raw material price volatility and intense competition. The company's strategic focus on emerging markets and sustainability initiatives presents promising avenues for growth. By leveraging its strengths and addressing its weaknesses, while capitalizing on opportunities and mitigating threats, Kimberly-Clark is well-positioned to continue its legacy of delivering better care for a better world. 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. Rashtriya Lok Dal president Jayant Chaudhary on Friday signalled that he would be switching over to the National Democratic Alliance ahead of the Lok Sabha polls as he hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his government's decision to confer Bharat Ratna on his grandfather and former prime minister Chaudhary Charan Singh. IMAGE: Rashtriya Lok Dal chief Jayant Chaudhary. Photograph: ANI on X "Koi kasar rehti hai? Aaj main kis munh se inkaar karoon aapke sawalon ko? (Is there anything left now? How can I deny your queries today?" Chaudhary said when asked if he was ready to join hands with the Bharatiya Janata Party. Hailing Modi, the Rashtriya Lok Dal chief said a decision which no previous governments had been able to take has been taken with the vision and dedication of the prime minister. "It is a big day for the country. It is an emotional moment for me, it is memorable. I would like to thank President Droupadi Murmu, the Government of India and especially Prime Minister Narendra Modi as this is a part of his vision that he took this decision and conferred (Chaudhary Charan Singh) with Bharat Ratna," Jayant Chaudhary told reporters in New Delhi. "Three awards were announced, and especially the announcement of Bharat Ratna to Charan Singh sends out a big message. The sentiments of this country are attached to this decision of the government. Modi ji has shown that he understands the thinking and sentiments of the country," he said. Chaudhary said there was a pain in the hearts of the people in villages that such a "towering people's leader", who occupied such high posts, took important decisions and worked for the deprived sections had not been recognised. "The government has taken a decision to encourage those who are not in the mainstream. I remember Chaudhary Ajit Singh on this day, it was his dream. I specifically thank PM Modi for realising that dream," Chaudhary said. Asked about the award being linked to contesting the upcoming Lok Sabha elections with the BJP, he said, "We win elections or lose, I am going in the coalition or not, that is not the question, today's decision is one that will be remembered for generations. If this is the Congress party's statement, I criticise it." On previous Congress-led governments not honouring Charan Singh with Bharat Ratna, Chaudhary said, "India's power has been restricted to only certain people who were part of the mainstream, that is why decisions were taken through them. In new India, all these things are changing." He said his father and former minister Ajit Singh made a lot of effort after which a decision was taken during the UPA-II that the Lucknow Airport would be named after Charan Singh. Pressed further on the seat-sharing understanding with the BJP, Chaudhary said, "It would be belittling to talk about elections on such a day...I have made no announcement. I just said 'Koi kasar rehti hai?'" Earlier, Chaudhary said the Modi government had won his heart with the announcement of Bharat Ratna to former prime minister Chaudhary Charan Singh. "Dil Jeet Liya," he posted on X. The honour for Singh comes at a time the RLD, led by his grandson Jayant Chaudhary is believed to be in talks with the BJP for an alliance for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, expected in April-May. The former prime minister died in 1987. Jailed former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan's party on Friday claimed victory in the general elections while alleging that results were being delayed to rig the outcome. IMAGE: Polling officers count ballot papers during the general election in Karachi, Pakistan. Photograph: Akhtar Soomro/Reuters In a statement, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party also asked PML-N's supreme leader Nawaz Sharif, who was the favourite to win as he was backed by the powerful Army, to concede defeat. The PML-N, however, rejected the demand and claimed that it was winning Thursday's elections. Votes are still being counted in Pakistan after Thursday's general election which was marred by allegations of rigging, sporadic violence and a countrywide mobile phone shutdown. There were dozens of parties in the fray but the main contest was among Khan's PTI, whose candidates are running as independents, former three-time premier Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (N) and Bilawal Zardari Bhutto's Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). In a statement on X from the PTI official handle, the party stated that it won more than 150 NA seats out of 265 open for contest as per the data received in Form 45s, which are the primary source of election results at the lowest level and show the votes for each candidate at each polling station. A party must win 133 seats out of 265 being contested to form the next government. Copies of these forms have been collected by PTI candidates' polling agents, which show them winning by a large majority. According to independent reports, PTI has won well over 150 National Assembly seats & is in a solid position to form government in Federal, Punjab & KP (Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa), with a clear majority, it stated. However, manipulation of the results in the late hours of the night is an utter disgrace & a brazen theft of the nation's mandate. The people of Pakistan vehemently reject the rigged results. The world is watching, it asserted. In another statement, PTI alleged that its mandate was being stolen. Let the world know that the clear and overwhelming mandate of the people of Pakistan is being stolen. Despite unprecedented pre-poll rigging & oppression, there was a record, massive turnout on polling day, it stated The party said that every independent candidate backed by it was winning by a landslide. It also said that Returning Officers are now manipulating the results using Form 47, which is a summary of Form 45 from each polling station. Furthermore, there are reports of the polling agents getting abducted & forced to sign fake Form 45s, it said. It also referred to unspecified reports to claim that PTI nominated candidates (were) losing suddenly in various constituencies now, after they had already won by a clear majority. In another statement, the party asked Sharif to concede defeat. Show some grace @NawazSharifMNS, accept the defeat! The people of Pakistan will never accept you. This is a golden opportunity to regain some credibility as a Democrat. Daylight robbery is going to be rejected massively by Pakistan! it said in a statement on X. PML-N has countered the PTI claim about results and said that it was winning. Based on data compiled in PMLN Election Cell and results already in the public domain, PMLN has emerged as the single largest political party in the National Assembly and a clear majority party in Punjab Assembly, according to party leader Ishaq Dar. He also said that premature and biased speculations" must be avoided as the country awaits the official complete results from ECP. The Shiv Sena-Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray and Nationalist Congress Party group under Sharad Pawar on Friday demanded the resignation of Maharashtra Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis over the murder of Sena-UBT leader Abhishek Ghosalkar during a 'Facebook Live'. IMAGE: Police personnel deployed after Shiv Sena-UBT leader Abhishek Ghosalkar was shot dead in Mumbai on Thursday, February 8, 2024. Photograph: Sahil Salvi In a post on X, Sena-UBT MP Sanjay Raut said mobsters were ruling Maharashtra. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde meets mobsters and welcomes them into his party, the Rajya Sabha member alleged. "The home minister is absent. The state is in the clutches of mobsters," he further said, demanding Fadnavis' resignation. Sena-UBT leader and former state minister Aaditya Thackeray said he met Abhishek earlier in the evening. There was no fear of law in the state, he said, reacting to the incident. "If this is the case, then who is secure in Maharashtra," Aaditya asked. Clyde Crasto, national spokesperson of Nationalist Congress Party-Sharadchandra Pawar, said the law and order situation has gone out of control in Maharashtra. "Be it Nagpur where goondas' are having their say, Pune where the koita gang' is creating havoc every now and then, Ulhasnagar where an MLA fearlessly uses a police station to settle his score with an enemy and now, a young man, ex-corporator Abhishek Ghosalkar, was shot dead by a criminal without fear of law," Crasto said. Ghosalkar was shot dead during an FB Live at the office of local 'social activist' Mauris Noronha in IC Colony in Mumbai's northern suburb of Borivali (West) on Thursday evening. After pumping bullets into Ghosalkar, Noronha also killed himself on the spot. Last week, a Bharatiya Janata Party MLA shot at a local leader of Shiv Sena, led by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, inside a police station in Ulhasnagar in Thane district. "All this proves that Home Minister of Maharashtra, Mr Devendra Fadnavis, has failed in his job and must resign immediately," Crasto said. The opposition leader said CM Shinde must take immediate cognisance of this situation as he too is responsible for the safety of the people and is answerable for any lawlessness. Bracing for another agitation by farmers, police are fortifying the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh and Delhi-Haryana borders with barricades and deploying more than 5,000 security personnel, a senior police officer said here on Friday. IMAGE: Farmers gather at Delhi-Noida, Chilla border on Thursday, February 8, 2024. Photograph: Ishant/ANI Photo On Thursday, farmers from Uttar Pradesh went on a sit-in demonstration on the Noida-Greater Noida Expressway as police blocked their protest march to Delhi, resulting in massive traffic chaos. Several farmer associations, mostly from Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab, have called for another protest on February 13 to demand a law guaranteeing a minimum support price (MSP), one of the conditions they had set when they agreed to withdraw their agitation against the now repealed farm laws in 2021. Besides a legal guarantee for an MSP, the farmers are also demanding implementation of the Swaminathan Commission's recommendations, pensions for farmers and farm labourers, farm debt waiver, withdrawal of police cases and 'justice' for victims of the Lakhimpur Kheri violence. "We are in contact with our counterparts in Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh to know how many farmer organisations will join the protest and the number of expected people. After a proper review, we will chalk out a plan to ensure law and order situation," said another senior police officer. On Thursday, thousands of farmers from around 100 villages of Noida and Greater Noida took to streets, bringing traffic to a standstill in several parts of Delhi-NCR as they made an unsuccessful bid to march towards the Parliament. Farmer leader Rakesh Tikait on Thursday joined the protesters in Greater Noida where his Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) members have been protesting outside the local authority office. Barricades were set up at the Chilla border with the Noida Police on one side and the Delhi Police on the other to prevent protesters, who started their march from the Mahamaya Flyover in Noida around 12 pm, from entering the national capital. "The city police is also in contact with the paramilitary forces and a proper security plan will be there. We had already heightened security and installed barricades at different borders of Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. Police personnel will be equipped in anti-riot gears," said the police officer. Thousands of supporters of Barelvi cleric Tauqeer Raza Khan gathered near the Islamia Ground of Biharipur under Kotwali police station on Friday, forcing the local administration into action to ensure law and order, officials said. IMAGE: Barelvi cleric Tauqeer Raza Khan being led away by the police in Bareilly, February 9, 2024. Photograph: ANI/X Example Link The crowd gathered on the call of Tauqeer Raza, who had given the "Jail Bharo" call as a sign of protest "against the anti-Muslim policies of the government", they said. "The government is making the Muslim an enemy. We are against the anti-Muslim policies of the government," Raza told reporters outside his residence after the Friday prayers. He tried to move out of his house into the streets already filled by his supporters but was stopped by the local administration. Inspector general (IG) of police, Bareilly Range, Rakesh Kumar Singh, told reporters, "Maulana Tauqeer Raza had announced to get arrested against the policies of the government. He was stopped and peacefully asked to return to his home. The condition is peaceful and under control. Sufficient police force has been deployed in the area." According to police sources, Tauqeer Raza Khan had on Thursday informed the district administration and sought permission for his "Jail Bharo" call, which was declined citing law and order situation. The district administration also sealed the Islamia college ground where Khan had asked his supporters to gather. Police personnel were also deployed in the area to ensure law and order. Despite these preparations, thousands of supporters of Tauqeer Raza Khan came out on the streets in the Biharipur area. It took the police administration over two hours to persuade them to return to their homes. District Magistrate Ravindra Kumar said that the administration continued to monitor mischievous elements. He said that some miscreants pelted stones in Shyamatganj market. "An FIR will be lodged regarding the matter and the miscreants will be identified," the DM said. Maulana Tauqeer Raza, a Barelvi cleric, is head of Ittehad -e-Millat Council (IMC), a political organisation. He is a direct descendant of Ahmed Raza Khan Barelvi, founder of the Barelvi sect of Sunni Islam. The Mumbai police on Friday arrested accused Mauris Noronha's bodyguard, whose pistol was allegedly used in the murder of Shiv Sena-Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray leader Abhishek Ghosalkar, under the Arms Act. IMAGE: Police officials carry out inspection after Shiv Sena-Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray leader Abhishek Ghosalkar was allegedly shot during a Facebook live in the Dahisar area, in Mumbai, February 9, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo The crime branch of police, which is probing the case, had detained bodyguard Amarendra Mishra for questioning earlier in the day. He was booked under section 29 (B) of the Arms Act which deals with the offence of handing over a weapon to someone without ascertaining if the person is legally permitted to possess it, an official said. Noronha, a local businessman and 'social worker', shot Ghosalkar during Facebook Live in suburban Borivali (West) on Thursday evening and then killed himself. As per the police, he used a pistol for which Mishra held the licence. The police have recorded the statements of Noronha's family members, including his wife, and learnt that he nursed a grudge against Abhishek Ghosalkar, son of former MLA Vinod Ghosalkar and a loyalist of the Uddhav Thackeray-led Sena-UBT. Noronha, who faced many cases, was earlier arrested in a rape case and spent nearly five months behind bars. While there was a tussle between Ghosalkar (40) and Noronha, who had political aspirations, the latter suspected the former had implicated him in the rape case, his wife told the police. In his first ever interview with a western journalist after Russia launched an armed offensive on Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed that he was ready to negotiate with Ukraine and end the war, adding that the Ukrainian side made a mistake by rejecting his negotiations. IMAGE: Russian President Vladimir Putin in conversation with American news anchor Tucker Carlson. Photograph: Screen grab from @TuckerCarlson/X "We prepared a huge document in Istanbul that was initialled by the head of the Ukrainian delegation. He (Ukraine President) affixed his signature to some of the provisions, not to all of it. He put his signature and then he himself said we were ready to sign it and the war would have been over long ago. However, (Former UK) Prime Minister (Boris) Johnson came, talked us out of it. And we missed that chance," Putin said. "Why do we have to bother ourselves and correct somebody else's mistakes?" Putin asked during an interview with the American news anchor Tucker Carlson. "Well, you missed it. You made a mistake. Let them get back to that. That is all. I know one can say it is our mistake. It was us who intensified the situation and decided to put an end to the war that started in 2014 in Donbass. As I have already said, by means of weapons," he added. Putin also referred to the expansion of NATO and declaration of Ukraine as a sovereign state saying that US and NATO bases began to appear in its neighbouring region and posing a for Russia. "Let me get back to furthering history. I already told you this. We were just discussing. Let us go back to 1991, when we were promised that NATO would not expand to 2008, when the doors to NATO opened to the declaration of state sovereignty of Ukraine, declaring Ukraine a neutral state," he said. "Let us go back to the fact that NATO and US military bases started to appear on the territory of Ukraine, creating threats to us. Let us go back to coup d'eta in Ukraine in 2014. It is pointless, though, isn't it? We may go back and forth endlessly, but they stop negotiations. Is it a mistake? Yes. Correct it. We are ready," he added. Ukrainian forces have, in recent weeks, been on the defensive after Russia launched fierce assaults along the front lines. Kyiv did receive a boost to its war effort last week when the European Union approved a USD 54 billion aid package that will help avert a near-term Ukrainian financial crisis. However, US lawmakers this week were unable to forge an agreement that would provide another USD 60 billion in aid to Ukraine. 'They often complained about the ill-treatment by their employer in Kuwait. They were not taken to a doctor also when they fell ill.' Kindly note the image has been published only for representational purposes.. Photograph: ANI Photo The saga of three fishermen who attempted a daring escape from their employer in Kuwait and took a boat all the way to Mumbai did not end the way they had anticipated. Instead of tasting freedom in their own country, the three have been remanded to police custody in a city where the memory of seaborne terrorists wreaking havoc remains a fresh wound 15 years later. But for their families back in Tamil Nadu, the three -- Infant Vijay and Sahaya Antony Anish from Kanyakumari district and Nediso Ditto from Ramanathapuram district -- are ordinary fishermen who regularly go to the Gulf to try their luck, and it was just their luck they found their way to Kuwait to make a living and work for a man named Abdullah Mohammad Abdul Rehman Al Sarhid who they charge with ill-treatment. Ditto's mother told this correspondent over the phone that this was her son's first trip to the Middle East. He had been there for two-and-a-half years but had not sent the family any money, because "he had not been paid any salary himself". Ditto regularly complained about the ill-treatment they were subject to and said they were not even given enough food to eat. Ten days ago, the trio, in a bout of desperation, set out to fish but instead set off for India with the help of the boat's onboard GPS. They had very little food with them which soon ran out, and they had been starving for three days when they sighted land. It was not Kanyakumari that they hoped to reach, but Mumbai. Where they were arrested by officers from the Yellow Gate police station near the iconic Gateway of India and handed over to the Colaba police. Though they told the police the truth about their journey and no contraband or banned substance was found on their boat, they were arrested for entering the country without a passport. Their passports had been collected by their employer when they landed in Kuwait. Nedisso Ditto, who is married and has two young children, told his wife of their plan to come to India a day before they left Kuwait. On his arrest in Mumbai he called his mother and told her of their ordeal in Mumbai. His mother said they have petitioned the district collector who has since sent their petition to both the state and central governments for further action. Infant Vijay's wife Monica disclosed this was his second trip to the Gulf. Earlier, he had worked in Qatar for nine months. It was his first trip to Kuwait, and it was with the help of fishermen who worked there and not through an agent. "He has been there for two years and in that period he sent me only Rs 27,000. They did not get salary there or enough food to eat. "Fishermen from other boats used to give them food to eat, as they were also from Tamil Nadu. "He has often complained about the ill-treatment. They were not taken to a doctor also when they fell ill," Monica said. The last time Infant Vijay spoke to her was on January 26, when he told her they were supposed to go fishing two days earlier but had not ventured into the sea as it was too rough. Monica had no inkling that they were planning to escape. Sahaya Antony Anish's mother said this was his first trip abroad. He went to Kuwait before Covid and was sending money regularly to the family till the epidemic broke out. During Covid while the other fishermen working with him returned home, he was asked to stay back as he was a bachelor and they needed someone to guard the boat. Although he resumed fishing after Covid, he had not sent any money home. "He told me that they are not getting salary and nobody wanted to work with his owner." On January 28 he told her that they had found two fishermen to work with and he was going fishing. On February 6 the Mumbai police called her and told her that he had been arrested and she should come to Mumbai with his ID proof and take him back home. As she did not believe them, they allowed her son to speak to him. She was crying on the phone when she admitted that she had no money to go to Mumbai nor knew how to. Their lawyer Sunil Pandey told this correspondent, "They are in police custody, once they are remanded in judicial custody I will apply for bail and get them released." Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com The developer of what has been a contentious proposal for apartments on Dublin Road near Hilliard will have to come back with a different proposal with fewer units it appears after meeting resistance Thursday from Columbus Development Commission members. And it might be an indication of future battles with other developers who want to build denser housing in areas not used to it as Greater Columbus' growth continues to surge and builders struggle to keep up with demand. RockRun Developer LLC had proposed building 220 units on a 14.7-acre site at 4747 Dublin Road, which sits between Davidson and Hayden Run roads. The city of Columbus recently annexed the property from Norwich Township. RockRun Developer LLC has wanted to build 220 apartments at 4747 Dublin Road south of Hayden Run Road near Hilliard. But on Thursday, the Columbus Development Commission told developers to come back with another proposal, with members saying the number of units sought was too dense for the area. The city of Columbus recently annexed the 14.7-acre site, and the developer was asking the city of Columbus to rezone the site and approve a zoning variance. Nearby residents have fought the proposed development for close to a year, arguing it is too dense and out of character with the surrounding single-family homes in Columbus, Hilliard and Norwich Township neighborhoods. Holly Hollingsworth, public affairs director for AT&T in Columbus and a former local television news anchor, lives near the site and is one of the leaders of the opposition group. During the meeting she called the apartment development a "three-story monstrosity they're willing to inflict on us." Development Commission members appeared to agree with concerns of residents, who packed the hearing room at the city's Downtown Michael B. Coleman Government Center. "It's such a robust stretch of the imagination to get all this done on this property," Commission Chairman Mike Fitzpatrick said. Commission member Maria Conroy said the proposal doesn't fit with the transition of apartment buildings near Interstate 270 to single-family neighborhoods farther east to Dublin Road and the Scioto River. Sean Mentel, the lawyer representing RockRun Developer LLC, said there is a need in Greater Columbus for what developers were proposing. "We are going to explode in size," Mentel said of the Columbus area's population. "How are we going to address this increase? We believe that density is coming everywhere. How you do it is important. Story continues "Providing this opportunity for those who have to rent in a neighborhood setting is great," he said. "It's a great project, Fitzpatrick said, "but not that location. Maybe there's a way to modify this." Fitzpatrick suggested that the developer should ask to table the plan and come back with a revised proposal. Mentel asked the commission to table action, and the commission did so. Glenn Taylor, executive director of the Scioto Property Owners Collective, the main opposition group, said after the meeting that developers have said "no" to the idea of patio homes on the site. The Hayden Run West Civic Association recommended against approval, citing among other things a lack of sidewalks along Dublin Road and the additional traffic load the apartments would create for the two-lane road. Hilliard officials, though, approved a traffic study. Fitzpatrick said the commission received 84 letters against the proposal. "I dont think in my 30 years on this commission Ive had a stack of opposition like this," he said. Mentel said after the meeting developers have some decisions to make. "We have to go back and look at our project and look at our options," he said, noting it's not going to be easy. "Change is hard." Hilliard resident Denise Golonka, who lives near the apartment site, said neighbors aren't opposed to development. She said they just want lesser density than what Mentel and the developers want. "He's making it sound like it's a NIMBY thing," she said. mferench@dispatch.com @MarkFerenchik This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Developer of controversial Dublin Road apartment proposal to redo plan Licensed cannabis business owners and medical cannabis advocates visited the State House last week to express support for legislative reform and meet lawmakers face to face. Brattleboro, VT (05301) Today Considerable cloudiness. High 44F. Winds WNW at 10 to 20 mph.. Tonight Partly cloudy. A few flurries are possible. Low 29F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. They are impossible to ignore! They come in the early morning, late evening, and all times in between. Scam phone calls have moved beyond bein Could some of BFUHS' 180 acres be used for housing? XT.com Singapore, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- XT.COM, the worlds first socially infused trading platform, is thrilled to announce the listing of JOY on its platform in the Innovation zone (Layer 1) and the JOY/USDT trading pair started from 2024-02-09 10:00 (UTC). Users can deposit JOY for trading from 2024-02-08 10:00(UTC) Withdrawals for JOY opened at 2024-02-10 10:00 (UTC) About JOY JOY is the native digital asset for the Joystream Network with a supply of 1 billion coins. JOY plays a pivotal role within the Joystream decentralized video platform, facilitating governance mechanisms and powering interactions among creators, users, and validators. As an integral component of the Joystream ecosystem, JOY enables seamless transactions, incentivizes content creation and curation, and fosters community engagement. JOY embodies the spirit of decentralized innovation and empowerment, driving the evolution of online video sharing towards a more transparent, inclusive, and rewarding experience for all participants. In addition to its utility within the Joystream network, JOY serves as a symbol of empowerment for content creators and users alike. By leveraging blockchain technology, JOY enables creators to retain ownership and control over their content, ensuring fair compensation and recognition for their contributions. Moreover, JOY fosters a vibrant ecosystem where users can discover, consume, and engage with a diverse range of content, free from the constraints of centralized platforms. As a decentralized digital asset, JOY embodies the principles of transparency, autonomy, and community-driven governance, empowering individuals to participate in shaping the future of online media. JOY also represents a gateway to a new paradigm of content monetization and distribution. Through the issuance of creator tokens and the creation of non-fungible tokens (NFTs), JOY enables creators to unlock additional revenue streams and establish direct relationships with their audience. Whether through tokenized ownership of exclusive content or participation in decentralized governance mechanisms, JOY holders are incentivized to actively contribute to the growth and sustainability of the Joystream ecosystem. As we continue to innovate and expand the capabilities of JOY, we envision a future where decentralized digital assets redefine the way value is exchanged, shared, and distributed within the online content landscape. Story continues Albin Warin , CEO of XT.COM , commented on the listing of JOY on the exchange, emphasizing the significance of decentralized video platforms in today's digital landscape. Warin remarked, "The listing of JOY on XT.COM marks a pivotal moment for the cryptocurrency community, highlighting the growing importance of decentralized video platforms in revolutionizing content creation and distribution." About Joystream Having the advent of JOY's listing on XT.COM, Joystream embarks on a transformative journey towards broader adoption and impact. This milestone exemplifies the dedication and ingenuity of the Joystream development team in creating a decentralized video platform that empowers creators and users. Through innovative blockchain technology, Joystream redefines the paradigm of online media, offering transparent, inclusive, and rewarding experiences for participants across the globe. As Joystream continues to evolve, it reaffirms its commitment to revolutionizing the way content is created, shared, and monetized in the digital age, ushering in a new era of decentralized innovation and empowerment. At its core, Joystream embodies the principles of decentralization, transparency, and community-driven governance. Built on blockchain technology, Joystream leverages decentralized consensus mechanisms to ensure the integrity and security of its platform, empowering users to take control of their online experiences. By eliminating intermediaries and gatekeepers, Joystream fosters a level playing field where creators have the autonomy to share their content without restrictions, while users enjoy direct access to a diverse range of high-quality media. Joystream also offers a range of innovative features and functionalities that differentiate it from traditional video-sharing platforms. From the ability to mint non-fungible tokens (NFTs) for exclusive content to the issuance of creator tokens that enable revenue sharing and community engagement, Joystream provides creators with powerful tools to monetize their content and build loyal audiences. Joystream's decentralized governance model ensures that decisions regarding platform development and policy are made collaboratively by token holders, fostering a sense of ownership and accountability within the community. As Joystream continues to evolve and expand its capabilities, it remains committed to driving forward the vision of a decentralized, user-centric digital media landscape. As we look ahead, the Joystream team remains committed to advancing the capabilities and features of the platform, enhancing user experience, and driving widespread adoption of the JOY token. We are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and are grateful for the ongoing support of our community as we continue to revolutionize the way content is created, shared, and monetized on the blockchain. Website: joystream.org Twitter: twitter.com/JoystreamDAO Discord: discord.com/invite/NaNzysB5YZ Youtube: youtube.com/@joystream8627 Reddit: reddit.com/r/joystream_dao Github: github.com/Joystream About XT.COM Founded in 2018, XT.COM serves more than 6 million registered users, over 500,000+ monthly active users, 40+ million users in the ecosystem, and more than 800 tokens with 1000+ trading pairs. Since then, XT.COM crypto exchange has expanded its offerings by covering a rich variety of trading categories to provide a secure, trusted, and intuitive trading experience for its large user base. One such addition is crypto futures trading which includes USDT-M Futures and coin-M futures perpetual contracts, as well as copy trading that allows users to replicate top traders in real time with just one click. Additionally, the Futures Grid allows users to automate the buying and selling of futures contracts to make profits. Website: www.xt.com Twitter: twitter.com/XTexchange Telegram: t.me/XTsupport_EN Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. CONTACT: Contact Details: Joystream leet(at)joy.stream XT Exchange Bella Wei Email address: Listing(at)xt.com The CEO of a Broward pest-control company is defending an employee who is accused of wrongfully poisoning federally protected birds that were leaving droppings outside a Weston restaurant. The boat-tailed grackles, which are native and protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, were seen on video exhibiting the effects of being poisoned in late January at the Weston Town Center, according to records from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. But Bill Robles, the president and CEO of AAA Pest Control, said his company has been in Broward for almost 30 years and only aims to do the best work possible. None of this is intention, he told the South Florida Sun Sentinel about the citations and concerns. In an interview Thursday, Robles said AAA Pest Control, based in Oakland Park, was called to help because the birds were creating a problem for the restaurant and defecating all over. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission says it gave the employee, Thomas Nickerson, two citations, accusing him of not using a product according to its labeling, and of violating the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, records show. Robles said, Tom has been with me for 25 years, and hes an excellent employee. Contacted by the Sun Sentinel on Thursday, Nickerson declined to comment. Concern for the birds The birds drew attention in late January at the Weston Town Center. An Argentinian restaurant at the center, Grazianos, had sought help to address the birds, and the restaurant was told it would be handled in a safe, humane way, a restaurant spokesperson told WPLG-Ch. 10. A bystander captured video of the birds flailing on the ground at the shopping center. In the footage, several birds also were seen in a cardboard box not moving. A city commissioner who saw the video of the birds on social media reported the incident, according to records released Thursday by the wildlife commission. When an officer with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation arrived at the shopping center on Jan. 24, the birds in the video were no longer there, the officer wrote in a report. Story continues On Jan. 31, Dr. Charlotte Cournoyer, the medical director for the South Florida Wildlife Center, emailed the FWC to report that a resident had brought in one of the birds, a juvenile male, that had died, the FWC said. According to the FWC, Cournoyer told authorities about the birds injuries: It had been flattened completely by a vehicle due to being affected by the Avitrol. Usually when a live bird is hit by a car, they have some degree of trauma but are not flat like a pancake because they were still moving at the time of being ran over. It seemed more likely that the bird was not moving at all because it would have had to been right underneath a tire to be flattened as it was, according to the report. The body was being held in case the FWC requested it for testing or evidence, but by the time they did, the staff realized it had accidentally been put in the refrigerator and not the freezer and the carcass had disintegrated, Cournoyer told the Sun Sentinel. Meant to remove pest birds Avitrol, a chemically treated grain bait, is used as a chemical frightening agent to remove pest birds from a given location, Avitrols website says. It has been approved for use in the U.S. by the Environmental Protection Agency since 1972. A company representative for Avitrol could not be reached for comment. When the AAA Pest Control employee was summoned back to Grazianos on Jan. 25, he told investigators he administered the product Avitrol once in three locations within a half-hour on Jan. 23, according to the FWC records. That included placing it on the roof of the restaurant, on top of a kiosk just outside of the restaurants entrance, and on the floor near a tree close to the outside seating of the restaurant. The employee explained he administered a silver-dollar size portion of Avitrol in each location, and monitored from a parking spot until all the Avitrol was consumed by the boat-tailed grackles, the FWC said. Florida state wildlife investigators said the pest-control employee reported he did not have permits from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, as is required, to remove the boat-tailed grackles, a protected species. Most birds, including the boat-tailed grackles shown in the social media posts, are federally protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. This makes it is illegal to take or possess any part of them, including their eggs or nests without a specific federal permit, the FWC said. According to the FWC, the officers determined that the pest control company employee improperly administered the drug Avitrol to the birds at the restaurant. The behavior of the birds affected by this drug is meant to be a deterrent to other birds. However, the drug was not administered in a manner consistent with the product label. The FWC was not specific on its incident report of what was not followed according to the label. Once the Avitrol was consumed, Mr. Nickerson said he did not continue to monitor the area and left. The following day, Jan. 26, investigators met again with Nickerson to issue his citations and read him his Miranda Rights as we had more questions and Mr. Nickerson elected to not speak with us any further, according to the report. Robles, the CEO of AAA Pest Control, said the product was mixed properly. We dont do work that way, Robles told the Sun Sentinel. Robles said he didnt realize a permit was needed, but disagreed there was any wrongdoing and said the birds were only slightly affected and came back to life and flew away. He said the bird that died was hit by a car. Lisa J. Huriash can be reached at lhuriash@sunsentinel.com. Follow on X, formerly Twitter, @LisaHuriash A video of former U.S. President Donald Trump has been shared on Chinese-language social media claiming that Trump asserted that both the 9/11 attacks and the collapse of the World Trade Center never happened. But the video has been digitally edited to misrepresent Trumps remarks. The former president, in fact, said there was no terrorism and no attacks during his four-year term in office, not that there were no attacks back in 2001. The claim was shared on a popular Chinese social media platform Weibo on Jan. 29. Trumps speech explodes with shocking inside story: The 9/11 terror attacks were fake, and the World Trade Towers didnt collapse in an attack, reads the claim. The claim was shared alongside a one-minute and 12-second video clip that appears to show Trumps Jan. 22 speech. Now I talk about it all the time. We had no attacks. We didnt have a World Trade Center. We didnt have attacks like youve seen, he says in the video. The identical video with similar claims has been also published by several state-backed Chinese media outlets such as The Paper and Defense Times. The same claim also has been circulated in different languages, including English and Italian. Several official Chinese media outlets and pro-Beijing social media influencers reposted a short video of Trump purportedly saying that the 9/11 terrorist attacks never happened. (Screenshot/Weibo, WeChat, Douyin & X) But the video has been digitally edited to misrepresent Trumps remarks. Trumps actual remarks A combination of keyword and image searches found that the video circulated in social media posts was part of Trumps Jan. 22 speech in Laconia, New Hampshire. A close look at the full speech shows Trump, in fact, noted there was no terrorism and no attacks during his four years in office, attributing a large part of the achievement to the terror ban he enacted through a series of executive actions beginning in 2017. When I was there, for years, I wanted to talk so much; we had no terrorism, we had no attacks, we had nothing, he said at the videos 23-minute and 30-second mark. He went on to say: We had no attacks. We didnt have a World Trade Center. We didnt have the attacks like youve seen. Trumps tenure as president ran from Jan. 20, 2017 until Jan. 20, 2021, while 9/11 attacks on New York and Washington happened on Sept. 11, 2001. The claim about Trumps remarks has also been debunked by other fact-checking organizations, including Snopes. Additionally, Reference News, alongside other Chinas state-controlled media outlets, confirmed that Trumps remarks had been misinterpreted. Translated by Shen Ke. Edited by Taejun Kang and Malcolm Foster. Asia Fact Check Lab (AFCL) was established to counter disinformation in todays complex media environment. We publish fact-checks, media-watches and in-depth reports that aim to sharpen and deepen our readers understanding of current affairs and public issues. If you like our content, you can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X. China's state employees say they are tightening their belts ahead of once-lavish Lunar New Year celebrations, amid backlogs of unpaid salaries and slashed bonuses at cash-strapped local governments and state sector companies. The struggling economy has increasingly left governments and the public sector unable to pay bonuses and wages. It has also forced organizations to impose salary cuts where they might once have enjoyed generous perks and payouts. A Feb. 6 viral post on Weibo by employees at Shanghai's state-owned Pudong Development Bank said they had been given a "New Year's Letter" in place of their expected year-end bonuses, which are typically issued in the form of a 13th month's pay ahead of the Lunar New Year festivities. At least one website, Hexun.com, appeared on Thursday to have deleted an article about the post, offering only the message: "This content is being upgraded. Please try again later." Meanwhile, employees at the Bank of Guangzhou also took to social media to complain that their bonuses had yet to land. The Lunar New Year this year starts on Feb. 10. The iFeng news service reported on Thursday that the Guangzhou bank employees had subsequently received their bonuses after they posted about the matter. Men pass a branch of the Shanghai Pudong Development Bank in Beijing on June 26, 2019. Bank employees say they received a "New Year's Letter" instead of the expected year-end bonus. (Ng Han Guan/AP) An employee at a bank in Shanghai who gave only the surname Zhou for fear of reprisals said Chinese banks the majority of which are state-owned have been cutting pay and benefits steadily over the past few months, with many employees now down to their basic salary with no perks or benefits. "This is a common phenomenon," she told RFA Mandarin on Thursday. "The composition of people's income used to be pretty complicated, with a bunch of performance bonuses, meal subsidies, car subsidies, housing subsidies and so on." "Now, a lot of hidden subsidies have been removed." She said employees at the major state-owned banks and smaller local banks are all affected by the cuts. Singing praises The flurry of reports came as the ruling Chinese Communist Party pushes ahead with a fresh crackdown on online "rumors," and as its leader Xi Jinping called on the All China Federation of Industry and Commerce to help sing the praises of the Chinese economy. "The ACFIC should guide private entrepreneurs to consolidate their confidence in development and collectively advocate for the bright future of China's economy," he told a pre-New Year's conference with the organization. Reports of industrial disputes and unpaid wages are highly sensitive topics for the ruling Communist Party, which is keen to eliminate negative reports about the economy in a bid to boost confidence. People walk past an office of the Cyberspace Administration of China in Beijing, July 8, 2021. (Thomas Peter/Reuters) In late December, the Jiangxi provincial government reported social media users to the Cyberspace Administration for "rumor-mongering" after employees at the Zhengzhou Public Transport Group issued a document encouraging employees with more than 10 years' service to leave the company and start their own businesses. An employee at a private company in Jiangxi who gave only the surname Liu for fear of reprisals said the reports were likely true, adding that her friends in the public sector have been getting their salaries cut by 20-30% this year. "In Jiangxi, they've had notice of 30% reductions in salary," Liu said. "Our company has no projects to work on right now. In other words, I have nothing to do." "My boss says he wants us to get through this together either way, I'm not resigning," she said in a Dec. 27 interview with RFA Mandarin. A resident of Jiangxi's Jingdezhen city said in another Dec. 27 interview that her mother's New Year retirement benefit of 1,200 yuan wasn't being paid either this year. "Retirees should get this benefit once a year, in the form of 1,200 yuan on a shopping card," Yao Xiuzhen said. "That won't be issued this year." A 2023 survey by the government-backed All-China Federation of Trade Unions published on the 51job recruitment website showed that around one-third of workers won't be getting a year-end bonus this year in time to usher in the Year of the Dragon on Friday. The survey was based on responses from 2,478 professionals, of whom 50.9% had been working less than five years, and 30.8% had between five and eight years' experience, the report said, without mentioning an error margin or confidence interval. The Hong Kong-based China Labour Bulletin's Strike Map, which tracks media and social media reports of labor disputes across the country, showed 174 disputes relating to "wage arrears," including 56 at state-owned enterprises, since Jan. 1, 2024. Translated by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Malcolm Foster. Findings that more than 100 portals posed as local media overseas show only part of the truth, says former editor. A news stand outfitted with Fake News headlines as a stunt pulled off by the Columbia Journalism Review pictured in the Manhattan borough of New York. A Chinese company in the southern city of Shenzhen has assisted at least 123 websites operating in China but posing as local media outlets in 30 countries across Europe, Asia and Latin America to disseminate disinformation, according to a recent study. The research lab at the University of Toronto found that Shenzhen Haimaiyunxiang Media Co. (Haimai), a public relations firm, was behind the push to promote pro-Beijing business and political propaganda, and vilifying reports of former United States House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen meeting when U.S.-China and cross-strait relations were in a highly-sensitive state. The researchers used the Domain Name System to track down these websites in a campaign named Paperwall, and to dig up the information on Haimai, which has a commercial registration in Shenzhen. While the report is absolutely credible, it is only part of the truth based on his personal experience, Victor Ho, the former editor-in-chief of the British Columbia version of Sing Tao Daily, told Radio Free Asia. Beijing has a long history of fighting public opinion wars overseas. There are many seemingly neutral Chinese-language media in Canada that promote Beijings big foreign propaganda, but it is difficult for ordinary people to discern, he pointed out. Ho said Canada has numerous so-called pro-Chinese Communist Party media, or media that seem to have no relationship with the CCP, such as Ming Pao, Sing Tao Daily, Today Commercial News, Chinese Canadian Times, Dawa News, Health Times and New Star Times. These are all localized names in Canada. There are 20 to 30 CCPs foreign propaganda media outlets in Canada, shaping the impressions of the Chinese community and many overseas Chinese, or Chinese Canadians, of the CCP, said Ho. If you are new here and undiscerning, you could be watching the CCPs big foreign propaganda all the time, but thinking you are watching Canadian Chinese media. This is quite scary and shocking. The Paperwall report found that approximately 100 domains backlinked to Times Newswire, a supposed newswire service. The discovered fake news network is huge, 32 of which are targeting readers in South Korea and Japan, 11 are British media, and the rest cover about 30 countries around the world. Most of the fake news comes from Times Newswire, which RFA noticed dispatches press releases and news reports written in multiple languages, such as Korean, Japanese and French, covering politics, economy, culture, current affairs, and sports. For instance, Roma Journal, which targets Italians and is not legally registered as a news outlet in Italy, often publishes information about U.S. President Joe Bidens foreign visits. It also republished a large volume of news from Chinese mouthpiece CGTN before and after Pelosis visit to Taiwan in August 2022, with headlined articles like Pelosi is short-sighted and selfish, endangering Sino-U.S. relations. In addition, there was a video that vilified Tsai Ing-wen titled Undercovering the Tsai scam, and an unverified article that Taiwanese military officers only visited the U.S. to eat and have fun. Another media, Conan Finance News, targeting British audiences, reprinted articles about Hong Kong, including those promoting the one country, two systems. Researcher and author of the report Alberto Fittarelli wrote: While the campaigns websites enjoyed negligible exposure to date, there is a heightened risk of inadvertent amplification by the local media and target audiences, as a result of the quick multiplication of these websites and their adaptiveness to local languages and content. Haimai did not respond to inquiries and a listed phone number was unreachable, according to a Reuters report. The Chinese Embassy in Washington told the news agency in an email that calling pro-China content and reports false information and anti-China content and reports true information was typical prejudice and double standards. Translated by RFA staff. Edited by Taejun Kang and Mike Firn. Climate change is an overarching threat to their population, expert says A snow leopard caught in a camera trap photograph in Uttarakhand, a northwestern state of India close to Tibet border. Indias inaugural survey on snow leopards has unveiled a population of 718 individuals within its borders, signaling hope for the species despite threats from poaching, climate change, infrastructure development and the degradation of their high-altitude habitats. The current global population of snow leopard is estimated to be between 4,731 and 7,465, making Indias count between 10 to 16%, Rishi Kumar Sharma, the head of snow leopard conservation at World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF)-India, told Radio Free Asia on Friday. The survey, conducted between 2019 and 2023, covered 120,000 square kilometers (46,332 square miles) with more than 2,000 camera traps across the Himalayas from Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir, the northern states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, and the northeastern states of Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. The Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India (SPAI) report, part of the global Population Assessment of the Worlds Snow Leopards (PAWS) initiative, was released earlier this month. Until recent years, the snow leopard range in India was undefined due to a lack of extensive nationwide assessments for this vulnerable species, said Indias environment ministry. A snow leopard caught in a camera trap photograph in Sikkim, a northeastern state of India. (WWF) They typically live in high, rugged mountain landscapes at altitudes over 3,000 meters (9,843 feet). They are found in a sparse distribution across 12 trans-Himalayan-Siberian countries, from southern Russia to the Tibetan plateau, as well as Mongolia, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India and Nepal. In Ladakh, the most significant proof of snow leopard existence was documented by the India survey, as camera traps captured images of 126 distinct individuals, leading to an estimated population of around 477. Ladakh is in the northwestern part of India and shares a border with Tibet and Xinjiang, which also host snow leopards. However, the population in China has not been scientifically assessed. Limited radio-collaring studies clearly indicate transboundary movement and, in many cases, even home ranges that span two-country boundaries, Sharma said. According to the 2014 Snow Leopard Survival Strategy report, China has 60% of the big cats global population in about 1.1 million square kilometers (424,712 square miles). Sharma said WWF-China and its partners have begun an ambitious exercise to estimate the snow leopard population in China. The studies so far indicate that snow leopards and their habitats are being protected well in China, he added. Climate change risk Snow leopards are classified as Vulnerable in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, where they have been listed since 1988. Their estimated and projected decline is at least 10% by 2040. Spanning 70% of Indias potential habitats for snow leopards, the survey aimed to deliver a precise count of these elusive wildcats for the first time, focusing on securing their future by charting their territories and addressing the challenges they encounter. The findings not only contribute significantly to our understanding of snow leopard ecology but also emphasize the ecological importance of the high-altitude environments they inhabit, the report added. Experts say snow leopards are at risk due to climate change, habitat fragmentation, and retaliatory killings stemming from human-wildlife conflicts. Additionally, they fall victim to poaching, as humans illegally trade their fur and body parts. A snow leopard caught in a camera trap photograph in Sikkim, a northeastern state of India. (WWF) In Nepal, conservationists have found common leopards at higher altitudes, raising fears of interaction or conflict between them and snow leopards. Sharma said such overlapping between snow leopards, common leopards, and even tigers is common in the region. These interactions are just coming to the fore now with more expeditions, scientific surveys, and data. Climate change, however, might exacerbate these interactions and lead to competition for resources between the cats, he said. Climate change is an overarching threat to snow leopards and their habitats. It exacerbates and magnifies every other threat affecting the people and their livelihoods, ecosystems, and species, Sharma said. Studies so far indicate multiple and complex pathways in which climate change will impact snow leopards and their habitats, Sharma noted, citing research that suggests only about 35% of snow leopard habitat will remain as climate refugia for them by 2070 if the current rates of emissions continue. The visible/emerging impacts include increasing frequency of extreme weather events, degradation and browning of alpine meadows, droughts and rapid melting of glaciers, he added. Edited by Taejun Kang and Mike Firn. North Korean eyelashes exported to China are repackaged and sold worldwide in possible violation of sanctions. A worker produces false eyelashes at a workshop for the company Monsheery in Pingdu, China, Nov. 16, 2023. Many Pingdu-based companies, such as Monsheery, package false eyelashes that are produced primarily by North Koreans, Reuters reports. They stick on the eyelids and provide more volume than mascara ever could. False eyelashes are big business. But consumers who buy them may be indirectly funding North Korea's missile program. Though they come in blister packs that say Made in China, they may have actually been made in North Korea and shipped to China in possible violation of sanctions. A Chinese trader provided Radio Free Asia with a shipping statement showing that a North Korean company based in the border city of Sinuiju last month exported 190,000 false eyelash products to a company in Donggang, a city in Chinas Liaoning province. North Korean trading companies produce artificial eyelashes using raw materials imported from Chinese companies, the trader told RFA Korean, insisting on not being identified for fear of punishment. Then they sell them back to companies in China. North Korean workers receive 1 Chinese yuan (14 U.S. cents) for every three artificial eyelash products they make. Through this singular transaction, the state-run North Korean company made 63,000 yuan (US$8,800) in profit for the cash-strapped government, which is trying to develop missiles that would threaten the United States. Washington has in turn slapped sanctions on North Korea to keep it from exporting goods. The transaction also included 18,000 wigs, which she said takes two or three days to make. Some people make more than 100 eyelashes a day, she said. The inspection standards are strict and very picky. Made in China The statement and the traders testimony corroborates a story that Reuters broke last week that fake eyelashes and other beauty products made in North Korea are sent to China and disguised as Chinese products to avoid sanctions. The products are stamped Made in China and exported to the United States, Brazil, Russia and elsewhere, the report said. Pingdu, in Chinas Shandong province, is known as the center of the supply chain for North Korean artificial eyelashes. Reuters reported that this region produces 70% of artificial eyelash production in the world. According to a 2023 estimate posted on its website by Kali, a Chinese manufacturer of eyelash boxes, about 80% of Pingdus artificial eyelash factories purchase or reprocess raw materials and semi-finished artificial eyelash products from North Korea. The Reuters report said this kind of country-of-origin-laundering operation is being carried out openly in China, and according to Chinese customs data, North Korea exported a total of 1,680 tons of artificial eyelashes, beards and wigs to China last year, worth about US$167 million. The eyelash business is so lucrative that North Korean workers dispatched by their government to earn foreign cash in China by working in factories there are being given extra eyelash work. A seafood company in China that employs North Korean workers is forcing workers to undergo additional eyelash processing, the trader said. The workers are complaining. The trader said that North Korea even uses prison labor to fill its eyelash contracts. Employees work on a Monsheery production line for false eyelashes in Pingdu, China, Nov. 16, 2023. (Tingshu Wang/Reuters) In June 2019, RFA reported that female prisoners in North Korea were doing additional work of making wigs and eyelashes even after their assigned work RFA reported in April 2021 that the North Korean government wanted to steer young workers into other industries so there was a labor shortage for eyelash and wig makers that year. Sanctions violation? While the North Korean export of eyelashes violates U.S. sanctions against North Korea, they are not subject to U.N. sanctions, Troy Stangarone, at the Washington-based Korea Economic Institute told RFA. Technically speaking, the export of eyelashes is not sanctioned under the United Nations, he said. What is prohibited is the export of North Korean goods to the United States without a license to import from North Korea. Any fake eyelash products processed in North Korea by Chinese firms would be ineligible to be shipped to the United States, he said. So, this is really a difference between U.N. and U.S. sanctions. The U.S. firm e.l.f. Cosmetics was fined US$1 million in 2019 after it was discovered that the company had over a period of five years imported eyelashes from China that had North Korean components. Ultimately North Korean export of eyelashes or other fake hair products is a small part of their economy and exports, Stangarone said. It's unlikely that North Korea will be able to really drive its own economic growth without diversifying into other areas. Translated by Claire S. Lee and Leejin J. Chung. Edited by Eugene Whong and Malcolm Foster. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and his daughter Kim Ju Ae visit the Ministry of National Defense on the occasion of the 76th anniversary of the founding of the Korean People's Army in Pyongyang, North Korea in this picture released on Feb. 9, 2024 by the Korean Central News Agency. The North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said this week that cutting ties with Seoul allows North Korea to strike and destroy the South, according to Pyongyangs official Korean Central News Agency. Kim made the comments during a visit to North Koreas Defense Ministry Thursday, accompanied by his daughter, and possible future leader, Ju Ae. Kim said his decision to cut economic and diplomatic ties with South Korea allowed North Korea to shake off the unrealistic pretense of dialogue and cooperation with the Korean puppets who sought the collapse of our republic, KCNA reported. As well as closing government departments that liaised with Seoul, Kim ordered a unification monument torn down and scrapped laws on cross-border economic projects. An official at South Koreas Unification Ministry said Thursday the moves were expected and would result in the further isolation of the North. He told reporters, there are no imminent measures planned by [the South Korean] government, South Koreas Yonhap News Agency reported. Last month Seouls defense minister said if North Korea went to war with the South it would be the end of Kims regime. President Yoon Suk Yeol said last week that Kim was likely to carry out multiple provocations ahead of South Koreas April elections. Edited by Taejun Kang and Elaine Chan. New Year's Eve gala with youth and students is held at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang, North Korea, Dec. 31, 2023. An exhaustive, 10-year survey of 6,351 North Korean escapees about their former lives in the isolated country paints a bleak picture: Food and energy are both scarcer, and government surveillance and crackdowns are stricter. Women now play a more elevated role in families and society though not because of a heightened sense of equality, but rather out of economic necessity, those interviewed said. They have become the main breadwinners, setting up stalls in makeshift markets that now are the main source of food and other basics for daily life. The results of the report, compiled between 2013 and 2022 by the Souths Unification Ministry and released Tuesday, opens a window into the lives of ordinary North Koreans, and clearly indicates that the quality of life has worsened since Kim Jong Un came to power in 2011 after the death of his father. Han Songmi, who was 19 when she escaped in 2011, is one of more than 30,000 people who have fled the North over the years. Now living in South Korea, she imagines what her friends and peers are experiencing, since she has virtually no way of communicating with them. They are probably in their late 20s now, and they are probably living with more anger than they did back then, said Han, who was not interviewed for the survey. When she lived in North Korea, Han said she and her friends were aware that the government controlled every aspect of their lives, but they were not allowed to discuss such things freely. A North Korean woman plays accordion to entertain others while they plant rice in a field on the outskirts of Pyongyang, May 13, 2014. (David Guttenfelder/AP) The authorities were cracking down on kids for their clothing and hairstyles, she told RFA Korean. The kids would be saying We cant do this among ourselves, but we couldnt say that in front of adults. Adults would always say, Be careful, your parents can get arrested because of you. Authorities also restricted the kinds of clothes people could wear. We had to wear a black skirt and a white top, but I witnessed some in Pyongyang being cracked down on for wearing South Korean-style jeans or wearing earrings, she said. Economic shocks The survey results show economic conditions in North Korea have worsened, and that women have become main providers for their families. Until the 1990s, people could rely on the government to provide their food under a rationing program, but this changed dramatically when the Soviet Union collapsed and aid from Moscow dried up. The centrally planned economy could not cope with the sudden shock, resulting in a famine between 1994 and 1998 that killed more than 2 million by some estimates in what has become known as the Arduous March a defining period in the countrys history. The rationing system became no longer viable. The Ministry of Unifications report showed that among respondents who fled North Korea between 2016 and 2020 more than 72% of those interviewed said they had never received food rations. The system changed somewhat to allow people to access a rationing system at their government-assigned jobs. People could expect to be paid a salary that they could then use to buy food at discounted prices. Barking dogs But in reality, state-assigned jobs became less and less a means of support. Among those who fled before 2000, 33.5% said they had received neither food rations nor wages at their official workplace. For those who fled between 2016-2020, some 50.3% said the same. With government jobs mostly held by men paying almost nothing, housewives have had to make money to survive, and have started running tiny businesses in markets, buying and selling things such as vegetables and packaged foods and various products smuggled in from China. Since Kim Jong Un began his rule, 70.5% of the respondents said they have had to rely on these local markets for survival, the survey showed. The salaries paid to men, meanwhile, have become so miniscule that the men are unable to provide for their families, so men are increasingly referred to by slang terms like barking dogs or daytime lamps, suggesting they are insignificant and generally useless. Usually, most women made a living by selling things in the market, said Han. Although their husbands worked at a company, the company did not provide rations or pay much. I think womens voices gradually grew louder from that generation onwards because women had to feed their families. Corruption Since North Koreas economic collapse, corruption has become more of a problem, the survey showed. While the ordinary people operate side-businesses to make ends meet, those in power use their status or position for economic gain, by collecting a percentage of these side-business profits, or by extracting bribes. Of the survey respondents who escaped since Kim Jong Un came to power, 41.4% said they had been robbed of more than 30% of their monthly income, and among those who escaped between 2016 to 2020, 54.4% said they had paid bribes. As the authorities' crackdowns intensify, residents have no choice but to pay bribes as part of whatever they are doing to make a living, said Lee Hyun-Seung, who escaped from North Korea in 2014 and settled in the United States. She was not one of those interviewed in the survey. Because we do not have economic freedom, those who engage in economic activities cannot receive legal protection, she said. Thats why we pay bribes and receive protection or avoid punishment from people in power. Power shortages Ordinary people also have less access to electricity, the survey showed, since the cash-strapped government prioritizes industry over the good of the people. Prior to 2000, most residents got an average of 5 hours and 42 minutes of electricity per day in their homes. Since Kim Jong Un came to power, theyre getting about 90 minutes less, an average of 4 hours 18 minutes, the survey found. I cant imagine how the situation can be worse now than when I escaped, Kim Sookyoung, who escaped North Korea in 1998 and settled in the United States, told RFA. When I lived in North Korea, the day electricity came on was like a holiday, said Kim, who was not among those interviewed by the Unification Ministry. When the electricity came on, all the residents in my apartment building shouted with joy. The light itself was just a joy. She said there were some days when the electricity did not come on at all. So people would charge batteries so they would have light during those days. The first thing I did when the electricity came on was to charge the battery, she said. Heating the home in the dead of winter has also become more of a challenge. In years past, people could rely on electricity or gas for heat, but these days its all about firewood. More than 69% of the respondents to the survey said they purchased firewood to heat their homes because it was more reliable. Leadership The survey asked several questions about the countrys leadership by members of the so-called Paektu bloodline, made up of national founder Kim Il Sung and his descendants, which include his son and successor Kim Jong Il and his grandson, the current leader Kim Jong Un. Pedestrians walk beneath portraits of Kim Il Sung, left, and Kim Jong Il, at Kim Il Sung square in Pyongyang, North Korea, Aug. 11, 2017. (AP Photo) The report said that 743 of the respondents were asked whether they supported the continuation of the Paektu bloodline leadership system prior to their escape from North Korea. Of those, 44.4% said they were against dynastic rule, while 37.8% said they supported it. Support for the regime has waned over the years. Among the respondents who escaped from North Korea before 2011, only 29.9% said they had had negative feelings about the regime, whereas 52.6% of those who escaped after 2012 felt the same way. Among those escaped between 2016 to 2020, this figure climbs to 56.3%. During a press briefing on Jan. 29, Unification Ministry spokesperson Koo Byoung-sam said that it is not easy to confirm concrete signs of North Korean residents dissatisfaction with the regime they live under. Translated by Claire Shinyoung Oh Lee and Leejin J. Chung. Edited by Eugene Whong and Malcolm Foster. The increase was led by Chinese investors, meaning Laos will only receive taxes and fees. A Lao worker tends plant seedlings at a Chinese banana plantation at Eelay Neua village, about 25 kilometers from the Lao capital Vientiane, in May 2019. A 20% year-over-year increase of agricultural exports from Laos in 2023 was largely on the back of Chinese plantations, according to trade officials, meaning that the country will reap few of the profits. Members of the business community told RFA Lao that the government needs to review its approach to foreign investment while improving its agricultural output to avoid a deepening trade deficit and improve the living standards of farmers in Laos. The Lao Ministry of Industry and Trade recently reported that last year Laos exported 9.5 million tons of agricultural products worth US$1.4 billion an increase of just over 20% from 2022. However, the ministry acknowledged that most of the exported goods were produced by Chinese investors who leased land and grew vegetables and fruit in Laos to sell to China. Produce exports from Laos are largely cassava, potatoes, coffee, bananas and sugar. The country exports most of its products to China, Vietnam and Thailand, respectively. Chinese nationals run 933 projects in the agricultural sector in Laos, and their investments in the country are on the rise. Most of the projects adhere to what the Lao government refers to as the 2+3 System, in which Laos provides land and labor, while foreign investors supply capital, expertise and a market for goods. Laborers at a Chinese-invested banana plantation in the Sing district of Luang Namtha province in northern Laos, in May 2019. (RFA) An official with the Ministry of Industry and Trade confirmed to RFA that most agricultural products in Laos including cattle, vegetables and fruit are produced by Chinese nationals for export to China, rather than by Lao farmers. China wont allow goods produced by Lao farmers to enter China, said the official who, like other sources interviewed for this report, spoke on condition of anonymity due to security concerns. They only accept goods produced by Chinese factories and investors that meet their quality standards. The Lao government will only receive a small portion of the US$1.4 billion in exports last year through taxes, tariffs, land concession fees and transportation fees, he added. Real value of foreign investment? A Lao businessman in Luang Prabang province said the government and the people of Laos will only get 10% of [the export value] because most goods were produced by the Chinese. He questioned whether the Lao government and by extension, the people gains more than it loses from foreign investment. The government must be more competitive by improving the quality and increasing the quantity [of agricultural products]; if not, Laos can expect to face a large trade deficit every year, the businessman said. To do that, the country must increase its knowledge, budget and access to modern technology. A laborer at a Chinese-invested banana plantation in the Sing district of Luang Namtha province in northern Laos, in May 2019. (RFA) The Lao Ministry of Industry and Trade reported that in 2023, Laos imported US$6 billion worth of products and exported $5.3 billion, resulting in a trade deficit of US$700 million. Laos can export 33 agricultural products to China most of them fruits, vegetables and cattle 15 products to Vietnam and 15 products to Thailand. China is the main market for Lao exports and the market is growing annually. An official with the Asian Development Bank, or ADB, told RFA that in order to grow its exports, Laos must produce more of its own goods and improve their quality. China has opened up its market for Lao products particularly bananas, cassava, corn and fruit, the ADB official said. Laos exported about 300 million tons of bananas last year. These export can boost the Lao economy. Translated by Max Avary. Edited by Joshua Lipes and Malcolm Foster. Video shows the two young men hung from a tree, then set on fire as they cry out in pain. Phoe Tay, left, and Thar Htaung were burned to death by a group of armed men in Magway regions Gangaw township, Nov. 7, 2023. Two young men in shackles are interrogated by armed men. As villagers look on, the young men are suspended from a tree and set on fire. Their screams are heard over the flames as a cheer goes up among people nearby. Video footage of this atrocity has gone viral in Myanmar, fueling outrage in a nation already hardened to the depravity of war after three years of increasingly bloody conflict since the Feb. 1, 2021, military coup detat. Sympathizers have circulated artwork on social media to pay tribute to the men who died, Phoe Tay, 23, and Thar Htaung, 22. The art includes symbolic images of two stars hanging from a tree under a campfire. The video shows their deaths in graphic detail. They were captured Nov. 7, 2023, in fighting between pro-junta forces and resistance fighters at Myauk Khin Yan village in Magway regions Gangaw township. According to a local official from the administration of the shadow National Unity Government, the video was taken by a villager who fled the area on Dec. 12 and Dec. 13. Its unclear who first posted the video that began circulating widely this week. The two young men were members of the local Yaw Defense Force that attacked positions held by junta troops at Myauk Khin Yan and then retreated when reinforcements from the pro-junta Pyu Saw Htee militia arrived, according to the YDF. The two young men were left behind after they both sustained leg wounds. The YDF said every household in Myauk Khin Yan was told to send one person to witness the executions. The video starts with the two young men being questioned by armed, uniformed soldiers while shackled at the legs and their hands tied behind their backs. The video then shows them dragged in chains to a nearby tree where they are hung as a fire is set just underneath. A crowd of people in civilian clothes can be seen in the background. Sporadic laughter from people apparently located closer to the violence can can be heard in the video. Local sources, who declined to be name for safety reasons, said Phoe Tay was a first year university student and Thar Htaung was enrolled at a secondary school. Both were apparently enrolled in the resistance force. Radio Free Asia spoke to the father of Phoe Tay. The father, Myint Zaw, already knew of his sons death but has not seen the video partly because he lacks adequate internet access in his village. He voiced horror and anger. Yes, it is Phoe Tay, my son, Myint Zaw said. He is gone. His life as a human is over. At that time, they were tortured. There was blood on the head. I didnt witness it, but I learned that he was beaten on the head, beaten on the knees. We could not retrieve the body. Nobody could go there because Myauk Khin Yan is the stronghold village of Pyu Saw Htee [pro-junta militia], he said. Myint Zaw said of the video: I havent watched it. But there are reports about it, and many people are talking about it. His friends in the village are horrified by it, he said. People are deeply hurt. They cannot accept such an act. Online outrage Since the coup three years ago, reports of torture, beheadings and burning of corpses by junta forces have become commonplace, but the graphic nature of the Nov. 7 video has triggered a wave of revulsion in Myanmar and beyond and sympathy for the dead. Hundreds of people have commented on Facebook and others have posted online images and memes that feature the two young men. I could no longer watch that video. How merciless they were, said Facebook user Ko Zaw, who lists himself as a resident of Kuala Lumpur. May you two avoid such a fate in your next lives. Please have compassion with each other, Myanmar citizens. Burmese social media has seen an outpouring of AI-generated art tributes to Phoe Tay and Thar Htaung after the nature of their deaths became public. (Clockwise from top left: AIMasterPieces, Christine Ang, ChanHlong, Hein Htut Aung, Crd-AungYeWin and UKhaing) Among the social media artwork are images depicting two stars hanging from a tree, a phoenix rising from the ashes and two young men looking down into a cloud-covered valley. Whenever I check my phone, I see your faces, brothers, said Facebook user and Bangkok resident Thein Lin Aung, who added that the amount of graphic photos and videos being reposted was bordering on the reckless. Even those without any blood relationship feel such a heavy pain, he wrote. Please think about their parents, families and relatives. Justice must be sought RFAs calls this week to junta spokesperson Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun for comment on the video went unanswered. But the junta-appointed Information Ministry claimed in a statement on Wednesday that the video was fabricated by militia groups and the two young men were killed by a rival Peoples Defense Force. The illegal subversive media is only circulating fake news at the right time to mislead the public and the international community that the security forces are carrying out such inhumane and brutal acts of terrorism, which are being committed by the terrorists from the so-called PDFs, the ministry said. NUG spokesperson Nay Phone Latt told RFA that the NUGs Ministry of Home Affairs has started building a case against the alleged perpetrators. However, several sources told RFA that village residents have expressed their fear of identifying the culprits. After the killings, nearly 200 people fled the village because they felt threatened by Pyu Saw Htee militia members, local people said. Gangaw township includes a significant number of supporters for the military junta and members of the Pyu Saw Htee militia, which the military has supplied with weapons and provided with training. Aung Myo Min, the human rights minister for NUG, noted that some of the perpetrators in the video werent wearing a military uniform. He described the killings as an act of evil which no human can accept Justice must be sought for it. Phil Robertson, Human Rights Watchs deputy director for Asia, said: There are really unknown words in humanity for the persons who did this. These two men should have been handed over to the proper authority for investigation, not to be burned alive while the camera was rolling in order to produce a film intended to intimidate others, he said. Edited by Matt Reed and Mat Pennington. The victory comes a day after the ethnic rebel army seized Mrauk-U, capital of an ancient kingdom. The Arakan Army on Friday captured a junta-manned police station in western Rakhine states Rathedaung township the latest victory by the ethnic army over forces affiliated with Myanmars junta regime, sources told Radio Free Asia. The Arakan Army began an attack on the Koe Tan Kauk border guard police station at a large coastal village several miles north of Sittwe, Rakhines state capital, on Thursday morning, according to a local resident close to the ethnic army. Junta troops fought back with air and naval forces and heavy artillery until Friday morning. I can confirm that it has been taken over, he said. Thats why the shooting has fallen silent. They were attacking with fighter aircraft, but now they are gone. The capture comes on the heels of the armys seizure Thursday of the last major junta territory in the city of Mrauk-U, the capital of an ancient kingdom with temples and other monuments that continues to have cultural relevance and is a destination for archaeologists and tourists. That caps weeks of rapid advances by the Arakan Army, or AA, in the western part of Myanmar, that has put the military on its heels and suggests a turning point in the countrys three-year civil war that broke out after a military takeover of the democratically-elected government in February 2021. The juntas Police Battalion 31 was captured in Mrauk-U on Thursday, effectively giving up control of the city to the AA which had already forced the surrender of three junta battalions in the area, according to a statement from the Three Brotherhood Alliance. The AA and two other rebel groups that make up the alliance have made huge gains in Rakhine and Shan states since launching its campaign at the end of October, prompting thousands of junta troops to surrender or flee to neighboring countries. Junta troops surrender Both junta soldiers and policemen surrendered during Thursdays battle for Mrauk-U city, said one resident, asking to remain anonymous for security reasons. The fighting in Mrauk-U is over. Locals are not allowed to enter the city at the moment, he told RFA on Friday. I heard they surrendered. But the AA attacked the military battalions. The junta troops surrendered after the battalion commander died. It was unclear how many police officers and soldiers surrendered and were in Arakan Army custody, he said. The AA currently occupies all 10 battalions formerly under control of the juntas Kyauktaw-based No. 9 Military Operation Command Headquarters. The army also controls three townships across Rakhine: Mrauk-U, Kyauktaw, and Minbya all located in Mrauk-U district. There are currently no military police or soldiers in those three townships, residents said, adding that most had surrendered, fled, been captured or died during battles. Sittwe districts Rathedaung township is just west of Mrauk-U district. RFA contacted the Arakan Armys spokesperson, Kaing Thu Kha, and Rakhines junta spokesperson, Hla Thein, for more information on the fighting in Mrauk-U, but neither immediately responded on Friday. The regime has not released any information on recent fighting in Rakhine state, including Thursdays battle in Mrauk-U. Junta naval craft sunk In its Thursday statement, the Three Brotherhood Alliance said that it recently sank three junta naval landing crafts and destroyed another warship in Rakhine. Local residents told RFA that junta soldiers from the Kyauktaw battalions were retreating toward Sittwe in the Kaladan River when the AA intercepted and sank them. A Myanmar military vessel travels on the Mayu River in Rakhine state, Dec. 20, 2016. (RFA) The junta has leaned heavily on its naval capabilities in Rakhine, according to Aung San Win, who observes the military situation in the state and is studying international affairs at American University. In a situation where both human resources and ground attacks are not favorable, they mainly rely on the navy and air force, he told RFA. Now I think that when the navy is being strategically attacked and destroyed, they are in a tight spot. With its recent victories, the AA is now in a position where it can launch offensives against Buthidaung and Maungdaw townships in Maungdaw district, and Sittwe, Ponnagyun and Ann townships in Sittwe district, where the juntas Western Command sits, Aung San Win said. The AA could also conceivably attack Taungup and Kyaukpyu townships in southern Rakhine state, he said. Translated by Htin Aung Kyaw. Edited by Mike Firn, Matt Reed and Malcolm Foster. Equinor ASA (NYSE:EQNR) Q4 2023 Earnings Call Transcript February 7, 2024 Equinor ASA misses on earnings expectations. Reported EPS is $0.64 EPS, expectations were $1.08. Equinor ASA isnt one of the 30 most popular stocks among hedge funds at the end of the third quarter (see the details here). Bard Glad Pedersen: Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. It's a pleasure to welcome you all to the presentation of Equinor's 2023 Results and Capital Markets update. My name is Bard Glad Pedersen, and I'm heading up Investor Relations. Before we start, I want to give some safety instructions for those of us here in the room. If an emergency situation should occur, the evacuation signal is a voice alarm. Please note that we only evacuate if the voice announcement says that we should do so. Then please use the fire exits, follow the signs and messages from the guards. The procedure during an evacuation is to exit and disperse safely away from the building. And then further notice will be given during normalization. Today, we will have four presentations in the preliminary session. First, our CEO, Anders Opedal. Then the EVPs for EPN and TDI, that is Kjetil Hove and Hege Skryseth. And finally, our CFO, Torgrim Reitan. After the presentations, we will have a Q&A session in this room. And the full CC team is here and available and ready to answer your questions. During the Q&A, we will also take questions from those of you following us online. After the Q&A, we have three breakout sessions. One with Anders and Torgrim. The second, with the EVPs for EPI and PDP, Philippe Mathieu and Geir Tungesvik. And the third with the EVPs for REN and MMP, Pal Eitrheim and Irene Rummelhoff. Finally, let me remind you that this presentation does include forward-looking statements and non-GAAP measures, and we refer you to Slide number 2 in the pack in this respect. A worker in a hard hat standing in front of a giant oil refinery, the stark blue sky and grey refinery in the background. Then we are ready to start, and I hand it over to you, Anders. Story continues Anders Opedal: So thank you, Bard, and welcome to all of you. It's really good to see you here in London, and I've looked forward to meet all of you today. So let me start with my key messages. We present strong results for 2023. Second, we deliver on what we said last year, and are on track for our 2030 ambitions. Third, we provide visibility for the cash flow growth and transition all the way to 2035. And finally, we sustained returns, and continue to deliver competitive capital distribution. Geopolitics remain tense in 2024, with wars in Ukraine and in the Middle East. Uncertainty and volatility continue to impact economic growth, transition frameworks and energy markets. Despite all uncertainties, one thing is clear: Energy security and energy transition will be on top of all societies agenda. In this environment, Equinors strategy is resilient, secures transition and growth and we remain firm on our direction. We are developing the energy solutions for tomorrow, while securing the energy needed today. We believe in a balanced energy transition and will develop new growth engines to stay competitive long-term. Our market position in Europe, and our industrial legacy from the Norwegian continental shelf, is a strong competitive advantage. Currently, European gas storage levels are high, and industrial demand is below average. Forward prices have come down for 2024 and for 2025 but are at higher levels than we have been used to in the past. We see signs of demand recovery in Europe and higher demand in Asia, this may put upward price pressure on prices. See also 25 Best Jobs That Can Make You a Millionaire Before Retirement and 15 Most Respected Countries in Asia. To continue reading the Q&A session, please click here. Bangkok hopes this will lead to larger goal of starting dialogue between junta and resistance forces. Thailand will establish a humanitarian safe zone and deliver aid to displaced people living on its border with wartorn Myanmar, the Thai foreign minister said Friday, a move it hopes will achieve the larger goal of establishing dialogue between the military junta, ethnic armed groups and the civilian government-in-exile. The plan will serve some 20,000 people in three towns in Myanmar, Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara said at a press conference in Mae Sot. Thailand plans to begin delivering food and medical supplies within a month, he said. Fierce fighting during Myanmars three-year civil war, sparked by a military coup in February 2021, has forced more than 2.6 million people across the country to flee their homes, according to United Nations estimates. As of Jan. 29, roughly 190,000 of them are in Kayin and Kayah states, along the western border of Thailand, according to the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees, or UNHCR. It is good to have a chance to observe the area here in Mae Sot. It is suitable to be a base for humanitarian assistance, which will happen soon," Parnpree said on Fridays visit to the border. Thailand has not disclosed the exact location of the safe zone. Thailand's Mae Sot border checkpoint at the 1st ThaiMyanmar Friendship Bridge on Feb. 9, 2024. (RFA) The Thai and Myanmar Red Cross Societies will implement the plan, monitored by the Coordinating Center for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or ASEAN. It remains unclear if Myanmars junta has agreed with Thailands aid delivery plan. The Thai foreign ministry has also not engaged in dialogue with ethnic armed groups yet, Panpree said during the press conference. Urging dialogue Since the 2021 coup, the 10-member ASEAN has expressed disappointment that Myanmar has been unable to meet a five-point consensus, which included ending violence in the country, facilitating dialogue between all parties and humanitarian assistance by ASEAN. Following the ASEAN foreign ministers meeting on Jan. 29 in Laos, Thailands Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow expressed hope the aid would be seen as a non-political initiative. Aid delivery is a good start to approaching the conflict, political analyst Panitan Wattanayagorn told Radio Free Asia on Friday, but added that ASEAN members were concerned about political consequences. Once you deliver some of the assistance to one group, other groups that are fighting with that group could see it as an assistance for this group to fight against them, he said. Thailand's Minister of Foreign Affairs Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara (gray jacket) after overlooking Thailand's border with Myanmar at a press conference in Mae Sot on Feb. 9, 2024. (RFA) "So this is a very sensitive and political issue anyway, although the Thais try to say it's not a political issue. And this is exactly what ASEAN members, many of them, are very concerned [about]," he said. "They didn't know how and in what way this humanitarian aid could be non-political." Thailands former administration was admonished by Indonesias minister of foreign affairs in 2023 for holding talks with the junta after the bloc began excluding high-level Myanmar officials from its meetings from the months following the coup. RFA called ASEANs Coordinating Center for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management for comment on their oversight of the project, but they did not respond by the time of publication. Others working on border aid have called for expanded aid delivery, highlighting the immense need along bordering Kayah state as well. The people are starving over there, Chalida Tajaroensuk, director of the Peoples Empowerment Foundation. The situation near Kayin state has simmered down so the government should consider expanding the relief aid delivery up north soon. Edited by Mike Firn and Malcolm Foster. Thousands of people gather in front of the iconic Potala Palace in Lhasa on Sept. 8, 2015, for an event billed as marking 50 years since the founding of the administrative area of western China's Tibet Autonomous Region. Tibets regional capital of Lhasa is seeing a flurry of Tibetan visitors for Losar, the Tibetan New Year, thanks to a relaxation in travel restrictions announced by Beijing in an effort to revive the slumping economy, three sources from inside Tibet said. Most of them are coming from Sichuan and Qinghai provinces known as Kham and Amdo provinces in Tibetan to visit Lhasa, a key pilgrimage destination with a host of major sites, including the Potala Palace, Barkhor Street, the Jokhang Temple and Norbulingka Palace, the sources said. This is also the largest gathering of Tibetans from Kham and Amdo in Lhasa since 2008, the first of the three sources said. They all requested anonymity citing fear of repercussions for speaking to the media. A Tibetan prays at Potala Palace in Lhasa, capital of western's China's Tibet Autonomous Region, Nov. 17, 2015. The Potala Palace, once the seat of Tibetan government and traditional residence of Dalai Lama, is a 13-story palace with more than 1,000 rooms. (Damir Sagolj/Reuters) However, authorities also imposed restrictions on visits to the Jokhang Temple, the holiest site in Tibetan Buddhism: It can be accessed only the first day of Losar, Feb. 10, and will be closed from Feb. 11-16, the sources said. Limits were placed on visits to other religious sites during Losar, and on forming large gatherings during the 15-day-long Tibetan New Year celebrations, two of the sources said. And Lhasa police said devotees must present their identification cards before participating in religious rituals near temples and pilgrimage sites. Travel restrictions The moves come after Chinese authorities imposed strict travel restrictions in 2018 on Tibetans going on pilgrimages to Lhasa from other parts of the Tibet Autonomous Region and from Tibetan-majority areas of Chinese provinces. They made Tibetans obtain a special permit to travel to the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region. Tourists enter a courtyard of the Potala Palace in Lhasa during a government-organized tour of western China's Tibet Autonomous Region, Oct. 15, 2020. (Thomas Peter/Reuters) Last year, Tibetans were required to fill out a separate application form from a local official and submit it to an office in Lhasa, and a resident of the city was required to provide assurance that the traveler would not engage in protests. Earlier, without proper travel documents from ones respective county or local office, Tibetans faced many restrictions when traveling to Lhasa from Dotoe and Domey regions, said the first source. However, these restrictions have been eased recently, and theres been a huge increase in the number of Tibetans traveling into Lhasa for the Tibetan New Year. This is aimed at boosting the Chinese economy [in Tibet]. Chinese authorities appear to have relaxed the restrictions because of worries about the economic slump in China amid falling exports, a prolonged crisis in the property market, high debt and soaring youth unemployment. Pilgrims pray outside the Jokhang Temple in central Lhasa, capital of western China's Tibet Autonomous Region, Nov. 20, 2015. Every day thousands of Tibetans visit and pray at the temple, considered one of the most sacred places of Tibetan Buddhism. (Damir Sagolj/Reuters) A second source, a tour operator based inside Tibet, told RFA that the surge in tourists in Lhasa has been beneficial for local businesses that earlier faced the brunt of a larger economic slowdown in China. Tourism can indeed have a significant positive impact on a countrys economy, and the growing number of tourists in Lhasa will boost the economy of our local business owners, the first source said. Earlier this year, while delivering a government work report at the annual session of the regional People's Congress, Yan Jinhai, chairman of the regional government of the Tibetan Autonomous Region, set a target of 8% economic growth in 2024, down from the estimated growth of about 9% in 2023, Chinese state media reported. Distant dream While China may have eased some domestic travel restrictions, including those within the country, international travel, including that to neighboring Nepal, still remains subject to a range of restrictions and conditions, the sources said. Pilgrims wait to enter the Jokhang Temple in central Lhasa, capital of western China's Tibet Autonomous Region, Nov. 20, 2015. (Damir Sagolj/Reuters) I went to Nepal with a few of my friends last month but in order to go on that trip, I had to deposit 100,000 Nepali rupee [US$750] and give the name of someone I knew in Lhasa as security, said the third source who recently traveled to the landlocked Himalayan country. But after agreeing to the conditions, the person could not travel independently. I was always accompanied by the travel agency representative, the third source said. I felt like a prisoner. A pilgrim spins a prayer wheel at a Buddhist shrine in Lhasa, capital of western China's Tibet Autonomous Region, during a government-organized media tour on June 3, 2021. (Hector Retamal/AFP) Travel to Western countries, meanwhile, continues to remain a distant dream, said the sources from inside Tibet. It's almost impossible for Tibetans to travel to the United States and other Western countries, the third source said. Translated by Tenzin Dickyi for RFA Tibetan. Edited by Tenzin Pema for RFA Tibetan, and by Roseanne Gerin and Malcolm Foster. They say the government applies the death penalty to keep people in line and commutes it to appear humane. Vietnam's President Vo Van Thuong addresses the media during a joint press conference with Japan's Prime Minister at a meeting in Tokyo, Nov. 27, 2023. Vo Van Thuong recently changed the sentences of scores of death-row inmates down to life sentences. Updated Feb 12, 2024, 10:05 p.m. ET. Vietnams President Vo Van Thuong recently commuted the sentences of several inmates on death row to life in prison as part of a general amnesty, but rights campaigners and legal experts said the move should not be seen as a sign that the country is improving its rights record. Instead, they said, Vietnams liberal use of the death sentence is part of a bid by the government to keep its citizens in line and burnish its international image through regularly announced acts of clemency. On Dec. 27, Thuong granted amnesty to 18 death row inmates, commuting their sentences to life in prison. More than a month later, five other death row inmates had their sentences similarly reduced after they filed a petition to Thuong. California-based activist Nguyen Ba Tung of the Vietnam Human Rights Network told RFA Vietnamese that the amnesty was simply part of a bid by the government to beautify Vietnams image on the world stage. The government retains the death penalty as a way to menace the people, he said in a phone interview. At the end of the year, or on special holidays, they let the president grant an amnesty to show that they are humane. But international human rights groups can see through this act. Vietnams judiciary is notorious for its application of the death sentence. Eighteen criminal charges in the countrys penal code carry maximum sentences of execution most of which are related to drug crimes. Amnesty Internationals latest annual report on death sentences and executions, released in May 2023, ranked Vietnam as eighth among nations with the most recorded death sentences in 2022, with at least 102. Just weeks prior to Thuongs decision to grant amnesty to the five death row inmates, a court in Nghe An province handed down nine death sentences to convicted traffickers from a busted drug ring. Amnesty not a progressive act Nguyen Van Dai, a veteran lawyer in the capital Hanoi, told RFA that the application and commutation of the death sentence is all part of a strategy by the government to threaten its citizens at home and avoid criticism abroad. Every year, Vietnam hands out hundreds of death sentences to drug traffickers and murderers, he said. If all the death inmates were executed, the international community would pillory Vietnam. So they find inmates who were sentenced to death for less heinous criminal acts and grant them amnesty. Dai dismissed the idea of amnesty for death row inmates as progress or a sign of judicial reform. Progress means that clemency should be granted to all prisoners, both political or criminal, but it is never applied in cases of national security, he said. This is a form of discrimination and I dont consider amnesty a progressive act. In 2022, Vietnam granted clemency to 31 death row inmates, four of whom were foreign nationals. In September 2023, Vietnam executed death row inmate Le Van Manh, despite claims by Amnesty International that his case was mired in serious irregularities and violations of the right to a fair trial, and calls by the international community to stay his sentence. Manh was sentenced to death in 2005, when he was 23 years old, for allegedly raping and killing a female student from his village earlier that year. He had pleaded not guilty to the charges and maintained his innocence until his execution. Amnesty International said commutations of the death penalty can be seen as a positive step and it remains hopeful the move signals Vietnams increasing openness to reform, however improbable that may seem in a country that likely executes scores of people every year under great secrecy. But Amnestys Interim Deputy Regional Director for Communications, Joe Freeman, said the announcements fell well short of bringing Vietnam in line with international human rights law and standards. "Authorities in Viet Nam continue to impose the death penalty for murder, drug related offences and economic crimes, such as embezzlement, he said. The death penalty is also handed down following grossly unfair trials, in several cases relying on confessions that the defendants say were made after torture or other ill-treatment. "The authorities must end the secrecy that surrounds their use of the death penalty and immediately establish an official moratorium on executions as a first step towards abolition. Viet Nam and other states that maintain this punishment are simply out of step with the majority of the world's countries, where the death penalty is increasingly becoming a relic of the past." Translated by RFA Vietnamese. Edited by Joshua Lipes and Malcolm Foster. Updated with comment from Amnesty International. The man from the persecuted ethnic group was accused of abusing democratic freedoms. Danh Minh Quang at the trial in Soc Trang province on Feb. 7, 2024. UPDATED at 10 A.M. ET on 02-12-2024 A court in Vietnams Soc Trang province has sentenced an ethnic Khmer Krom man to three-and-a-half years in prison for abusing democratic freedoms under Article 331 of the countrys criminal code, state-controlled media reported. Prosecutors said Wednesday that Danh Minh Quang, 34, used his personal Facebook account to post comments and live-stream videos which violated Vietnam laws. Quang set up the account in Dec. 2018 and the prosecution claimed that from 2021 to July 2023 there were 51 comments, photos and videos that had contents that were negative, propaganda and distorted realities for defaming the honor and dignity of State officials. Quang was arrested by Soc Trang Provincial Police on July 31, 2023 along with Thach Chuong and To Hoang Chuong. All three were prosecuted on charges of abusing democratic freedoms to infringe on State interests, legitimate rights and interests of organizations and individuals. Phil Robertson, deputy Asia director of Human Rights Watch , called for authorities to drop all charges against Quang and immediately release him. The government of Soc Trang province shamelessly trampled on the right of freedom of expression and retaliated against a citizen for simply stating his politically independent views on social media, Robertson said in a statement on Feb. 11. The National Assembly of Vietnam should urgently amend the penal code and repeal rights-abused articles, including Aticle 331, which is systematically being used by the Vietnamese government to violate rights of ordinary people across the country, he said. Nearly 1.3-million Khmer Krom live in a part of Vietnam that was once southeastern Cambodia. They have faced serious restrictions on freedom of expression, assembly and movement. In August last year, community members living in the U.S. organized a demonstration in front of the Vietnamese Embassy in Washington DC to protest the policy of oppressing the Khmer Krom people and demanding the release of the three men. Translated by RFA Vietnamese. Edited by Mike Firn and Taejun Kang. The story was updated to include comments by Phil Robertson. 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. The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. Farmers in Bulgaria continued a nationwide protest for a fourth straight day, demanding more state compensation for being undercut by cheaper imports from Ukraine. Dozens blocked roads in the village of Trud on February 8 after farmers in other European countries held protests. In the earliest known color photograph of Tbilisi, taken around 1910, one pointed church dome stands out above the rest. It is the spire of the evocatively named Church of the Red Gospel, also known as the Shamkoretsots Sourb Astvatsatsin Church. The Armenian church was built in the late 1700s in a neighborhood historically populated by ethnic Armenians, using donations from residents. The 40-meter-high church was one of Tbilisis most prominent landmarks for around 200 years. Soon after the completion of the Church of the Red Gospel, cracks had already been reportedly noticed in its brick walls and in April 1989 the cupola collapsed. Armenians have historically been one of the largest ethnic minorities in Tbilisi, and they follow their own branch of Orthodox Christianity. The Georgian Orthodox Church and the Georgian authorities have frequently been criticized for the treatment of Armenian heritage in the country's capital city. Walking into the remnants of the building today, it is hard to imagine that just a few decades ago there was a functioning church here, and that worshippers walked on tiles under the rubble that now covers the ground inside. Susana Khachaturian, a spokesperson for the Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Holy Church in Georgia, says that they have repeatedly reached out to the Georgian authorities over the Tbilisi church. "In 2009, we appealed to the prime minister at the time, Nika Gilauri, to return the church to the Armenian diocese. We tried again in 2012 and 2015, but there was no response, Khachaturian told RFE/RL's Georgian Service. Could the building have been preserved so that it was not completely destroyed? Now, every day, one brick, one stone is lost. Perhaps the day will come soon when nothing is left." In 2007, the building was named as a site of cultural heritage in Georgia, but the status has not halted its decline. Alongside the church when RFE/RLs Georgian Service visited, a concrete mixer was at work and posters on the fence indicated that a four-story hotel will be built at the site soon. The main concern for some residents is the risk the protected monument poses. It's dangerous. Can't you see how that ruin is barely standing? one said. No one knows when it will fall and who it will fall onto. Look at what is happening around it. All this heavy construction equipment is operating and the ground is shaking, another local said. When will it collapse, and will someone be inside when it does? Are they waiting for that? Either completely demolish the building or restore it, a third resident said. For local art experts, the Armenian church still holds special significance. "In the historical areas of all cities of the Middle Ages, dominant buildings from the early development of the city are distinguished, Georgian art critic Tamar Amashukeli told RFE/RL. These buildings stand out and serve to orientate people. 'This monument, along with many other places of worship in Tbilisi, had this function. Today, these buildings are disappearing under the intensive development of the city." I'm Steve Gutterman, the editor of RFE/RL's Russia/Ukraine/Belarus Desk. Welcome to The Week In Russia, in which I dissect the key developments in Russian politics and society over the previous week and look at what's ahead. An anti-war candidate is barred from the presidential ballot, and two detailed reports shed grim new light on the fate and future of Mariupol -- the devastated port city where Russia is seeking to "erase Ukrainian culture." Here are some of the key developments in Russia over the past week and some of the takeaways going forward. Horror And Hope Nearly two years into Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, a handful of place names stand out as grim emblems of the death and destruction Moscow's forces have wreaked on the neighboring country since the unprovoked assault. The most prominent of these may be Bucha, the suburban Kyiv city whose name is now synonymous with evidence of atrocities and accusations of war crimes by Russian troops in the first few weeks of the onslaught. But Bucha is in the northern part of Ukraine from which Russian forces withdrew early on after failing to take the capital or force President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and his government to capitulate. So it's also a symbol of hope for justice: the hope, shared by many Ukrainians and their supporters abroad, that Russia will face consequences for its actions. Mariupol is a different story. After withstanding attacks over the years of the war in the Donbas, which erupted in 2014, it fell to Russian forces in May 2022 after a devastating siege and remains in Moscow's hands -- one of the biggest Ukrainian cities occupied by Russia. As a result, it is a symbol of another kind: of the lengths to which Russia is prepared to go using brute force to seize Ukrainian territory, even areas whose pre-invasion populations were largely Russian-speaking residents whom President Vladimir Putin baselessly claims the onslaught was intended to protect, and of the suffering still in store for residents of areas that are occupied by Russia or may be in future. The fate of those people figures prominently in the arguments of those, both inside and outside Ukraine, who say driving Russia's forces out of all of Ukraine must be the goal and any agreement that leaves Russia in control of Ukrainian territory would keep millions of civilians in Russia's thrall and invite further and even direr disaster. For now, the war seems sure to continue for many months or more and there appears to be no chance Ukraine could recapture Mariupol anytime soon, let alone push Russian forces out of the country entirely. A Ukrainian counteroffensive fell far short of its goals last year, and Russia is pressing at several locations on the front line. 'One Of The Worst Chapters' For all that's unknown about Mariupol, where Russian control hinders access to accurate information about the past and present, horrifying stories have emerged from a city where many buildings were razed by Russian attacks and rows of fresh graves multiplied as Russian forces pressed to capture the strategic Azov Sea port. Some of them are linked to the bombing of a theater where hundreds of adults and children were taking shelter, others to the siege of the steelworks where Ukrainian forces made their final stand, Azovstal. Still others are on a far smaller scale, such as a video showing a woman slumped in a hospital corridor, sobbing and clutching her sleeping son after a bombardment that killed her other child. This week, two extensive new reports shed stark new light on developments in Mariupol both before Russia's takeover and since. One is a Human Rights Watch report on an investigation, conducted in cooperation with two other organizations, into what the group calls "one of the worst chapters of Russia's atrocity-ridden invasion and occupation of Ukraine so far." "The operation, which included Russian forces pounding Mariupol for weeks with explosive weapons, left thousands of Ukrainian civilians dead and injured. It trapped hundreds of thousands for weeks. And it turned a thriving city into a wasteland of charred buildings and shallow graves," HRW says. Given what it describes as "Russia's continued efforts to erase Ukrainian culture" in Mariupol, a vibrant city of 540,000 not long ago, the chapter is far from over. The other new report is from the Financial Times. It focuses on Russia's rebuilding of Mariupol, describing the city as a "Potemkin village" whose residents "live in perilous conditions while Russian companies profit from contracts worth millions." "With investigators unable to access the city, and with Moscow racing to plaster over the horrors of the war, it's feared [that] more Russian atrocities may remain undiscovered," the report says after citing the bombing of the theater and a strike on a maternity hospital. "Russia is trying to destroy all evidence of its war crimes," it quotes Ukraine's human rights commissioner, Dmytro Lubinets, as saying. Barred From The Ballot Mariupol is in Donetsk Province, one of five Ukrainian regions that Russia baselessly claims as its own. In the real Russia, a decade-long clampdown on civil society, independent media, and dissent that intensified after Putin launched the full-scale invasion of Ukraine shows no sign of flagging ahead of a March 15-17 election that is set to hand him a new six-year term. Prosecutions on extremism charges that critics say the Kremlin uses to silence opponents and quash perceived threats have risen sharply since the February 2022 invasion. Putin's most prominent foe, Aleksei Navalny, is serving a prison sentence that was extended to 19 years after he was convicted of extremism last August. On February 6, his spokeswoman said he had been placed in solitary confinement several days earlier for the 26th time since his incarceration three years ago. Navalny has been an opposition leader for many years, but his biggest troubles with the state began after he sought to challenge Putin on the most recent presidential vote in 2018. He was barred from the ballot and in 2020 survived a near-fatal nerve-agent poisoning that he blames on Putin and the Federal Security Service. As in 2018, the Kremlin's grip on politics, government, and the media means Putin is certain to win the election next month barring some massive, unexpected development. But once again, Putin appears to be taking no chances: Boris Nadezhdin, a little-known former lawmaker whose would-be campaign quickly turned into a magnet for Russians who are tired of the war in Ukraine, or of Putin, or both, was denied a place on the ballot in a decision handed down by the Central Election Commission on October 8. Political analyst Dmitry Oreshkin offered a simple explanation for the decision to bar Nadezhdin from the ballot. The Kremlin initially saw him as a nonthreatening figure who would receive 2 or 3 percent of the vote, demonstrating "the wretchedness of the European, anti-Putin and anti-war alternative," Oreshkin told RFE/RL's Crimea.Realities. But after Russians lined up in droves to sign the petitions he needed to qualify for the race, it became clear he might attract a larger number of votes. "If suddenly an opponent of the war, oriented toward the West, who defends liberal values, gets 10 to 12 percent, this is a completely unthinkable situation" for Putin and his circle, Oreshkin said. "And so, sometime in mid-January, Nadezhdin moved irrevocably from the ranks of acceptablecandidates to the ranks of the unacceptable." That's it from me this week. If you want to know more, catch up on my podcast The Week Ahead In Russia, out every Monday, here on our site or wherever you get your podcasts (Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts). Yours, Steve Gutterman P.S.: Consider forwarding this newsletter to colleagues who might find this of interest. Send feedback and tips to newsletters@rferl.org. Like two heavyweight boxers, the United States and Iran circle the ring -- flexing their muscles without stepping close enough to actually trade blows. It is clear that neither wants to fight, but they also have no interest in settling their stark differences. That is how experts say Washington and Tehran have dealt with each other for more than four decades, only changing their stance when it is mutually beneficial. Tensions have soared between the two foes, who have no formal diplomatic ties, amid the fallout from Israels devastating war in the Gaza Strip. But despite calls for de-escalation, observers say there is little room for detente. "I've rarely seen a situation in which the tensions have been so high and the exit ramps are nearly nonexistent and there were no real channels of communication between the two sides," said Ali Vaez, director of the Iran project at the International Crisis Group. And that makes the current situation even more dangerous, because there's plenty of space for miscommunication and misunderstanding," Vaez added. Current tensions in the Middle East have had deadly consequences even as each side tries to avoid getting drawn into a direct military confrontation. The United States has hit Iran-backed militants in response to attacks against U.S. forces and interests in the region, including the deaths of three U.S. soldiers in Jordan last month, while underscoring that its aim is de-escalation. Iran, which like the United States has said that it does not want war, has continued to back militant groups that make up its so-called axis of resistance against Israel and the West, while calling for diplomacy to resolve the crisis. Tehran and Washington have carefully avoided direct conflict, but are in no position to work out their differences even if they wanted to, experts say. Washington and Tehran have not had formal diplomatic ties since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, leaving them to negotiate through back-channels or third states when needed. But political and ideological pressures at home -- amplified ahead of a parliamentary vote in Iran in March and a presidential election in the United States in November -- has meant that neither side is looking to back away any time soon from the stark red lines the two have drawn. Avenues For Diplomacy "There are ways that communication can be had between the two countries, and they do so, said Alex Vatanka, director of the Iran Program at the U.S.-based Middle East Institute. But they tend to do it on select files, or moments of crisis." Vatanka said those lines of communication include Irans envoy to the United Nations who resides in New York and the Swiss Embassy in Tehran which handles American interests in the Islamic republic. There are also third-party mediators, including Qatar, Oman, and Iraq, he said. The U.S.-Iran prisoner swap worked out in September, which followed years of secret negotiations involving Gulf states and Switzerland, is the most recent example. Under that deal, four Americans held hostage in Iran were released in exchange for Washington unfreezing $6 billion in Iranian oil revenue held up in South Korea. As part of the agreement, according to Vaez, "Iran committed to rein in groups that were targeting U.S. interests in Iraq and Syria" and Washington received a commitment that Tehran would not supply ballistic missiles to Russia for use in Moscow's war against Ukraine. Shortly after Iran-backed Hamas, which is considered a terrorist organization by the United States and the European Union, carried out its deadly assault on Israel on October 7, the unfrozen Iranian funds came under intense scrutiny. Republicans in the United States who are gearing up for the presidential election in November have been particularly vocal in criticizing the deal worked out by the administration of Democratic President Joe Biden. In response, Washington worked out an agreement with Qatar, where the unfrozen Iranian funds were moved and to be released only for humanitarian purposes, to prevent Tehran from accessing them at all. But the deal has remained a hot-button issue. The Gaza war and the ensuing resumption of attacks on U.S. forces and interests by Iran-backed groups have attracted even more political discord. After Israel's large-scale offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip that has killed more than 27,000 Palestinians, Iran-backed militant groups have carried out attacks in solidarity with Hamas. The Iran-backed Huthi rebels in Yemen have targeted maritime shipping and U.S. naval forces in the Red Sea. Meanwhile, Iran-backed militias in Iraq killed three U.S. soldiers in Jordan in a drone attack. That, in turn, has led to U.S. and U.K. attacks on Huthi targets in Yemen, and by the United States against Iran-backed militias and Iranian-linked sites in Syria and Iraq. Iran, for its part, has said that the axis of resistance, which it denies directing, would continue to carry out strikes until a permanent cease-fire is worked out to stop what it calls a genocide in Gaza. And in what was widely seen as a show of its capability to strike back in the event Iran itself is attacked, it has launched ballistic missile strikes against "enemy" targets in Iraq, Pakistan, and Syria, the latter of which showcased that Israel was within striking distance. The recent spike in violence came after the United States had experienced "the longest period of quiet in the Middle East" from March until the Hamas assault on October 7, Vaez said. That relative peace came about not because of displays of power, but because Iran and the United States were negotiating, Vaez said. "It wasn't because the U.S. had flexed its military muscle and deterred Iran, it was because it was engaged in diplomatic understandings with Iran that came to fruition and culminated in a detainee deal," Vaez said. Tehran and the United States, currently trading threats of ever-stronger responses, "are seeking to pressure each other into greater flexibility," said Trita Parsi, co-founder of the Washington-based Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft. "Both would like to get back to the truce they enjoyed prior to the October 7 attacks" by Hamas against Israel, Parsi said in written comments. "But whether the political will is available for real de-escalation remains unclear." "President Biden has been unmovable in his opposition to a cease-fire in Gaza thus far," Parsi said, referring to mounting calls for a cessation of hostilities between Israel and Hamas. "And without such a cease-fire, real de-escalation remains very unlikely." Military Message U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on February 6, halfway through his latest trip to the Middle East to reduce regional tensions, that a proposal for a temporary cease-fire put together with the help of Qatar and Egypt and presented to Hamas and Israel, was "possible and, indeed, essential." While details of the proposal have not been made public, Blinken said that the goal is to use any pause in fighting to address humanitarian and reconstruction needs in Gaza and "to continue to pave a diplomatic path forward to a just and lasting peace and security for the region." Asked by RFE/RL whether Washington is employing any diplomatic means, either directly or indirectly, to decrease tensions with Iran, a U.S. State Department spokesperson pointed to recent strikes carried out against Iranian-backed groups in Yemen, Syria, and Iraq. "Our military response to the killing of three U.S. service members by Iran-aligned militia groups and our continued action to degrade the Huthis ability to threaten international shipping sends the clearest message of all: the United States will defend our personnel and our interests," a U.S. State Department spokesman said in written comments on February 7. "When we are attacked, we will respond strongly, and we will respond at a time and place of our choosing," the spokesman said. Prior to the deadly attack on the U.S. base in Jordan, there had been reports of Washington using third states to send a nonmilitary notice to Iran. Shortly after the Hamas assault on Israel in October, the U.S. Senate majority leader, Chuck Schumer, said that a congressional delegation to China had asked Beijing to exert its influence with Tehran to prevent the Israel-Hamas conflict from spreading. In early January, the Lebanese news publication Al-Ahed News quoted Iran's ambassador to Syria as saying that a delegation from an unidentified Gulf state had carried a message from the United States seeking to reduce the risk of an expanded regional conflict. The U.S. State Department spokesperson said that beyond the recent U.S. strikes, "our message to Iran, in public and in private, has been a singular one: cease your support for terrorist groups and militant proxies and partners." Washington welcomes "any efforts by other countries to play a constructive role in trying to prevent these Iran-enabled attacks from taking place," the spokesperson added, but referred to White House national-security spokesman John Kirby's February 6 comment that "I know of no private messaging to Iran since the death of our soldiers in Jordan over a week ago. Lack Of Vision The limits of diplomacy between the United States and Iran, according to Vatanka, "is not a lack of the ability to communicate, the problem is a lack of vision" to repair relations. For political reasons and for a long time, Vantanka added, neither side has been interested in mending the bad blood that has existed between the two countries going back to 1979. "Right now, the White House cannot afford to talk to Iran at a time when so many of Biden's critics are saying he's too soft on the Iranian regime," Vatanka said. "On the other hand, you've got an Iranian supreme leader who is 84 years old. He's really keen on two things: not to have a war with the Americans, because he doesn't think that's going to go well for Iran or his regime. But at the same time, he doesn't want to see the Americans return to Tehran anytime soon. Certainly not when he's alive." This, Vatanka explained, is because Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khameini "does not think the Americans want anything other than the fundamental objective of bringing about the end of the Islamic republic." The other major voice in Iranian foreign policy -- the leaders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps -- also see anti-Americanism as a worthwhile instrument to further their ideological and political aims at home and abroad, according to Vatanka. "They think anti-Americanism is the ticket to mobilize the Islamic world around their flag and around their leadership," Vatanka said. More moderate voices when it comes to Iran's foreign policy, Vatanka said, are labeled as traitors and weak and are today essentially marginalized." Pakistans powerful army, the ultimate kingmaker in the South Asian country, appeared to pull all the stops to prevent leading opposition figure, Imran Khan, and his Pakistan Tehrik-e Insaf (PTI) party from winning the February 8 general elections. Imprisoned since August, the former premier was convicted of treason, graft, and unlawful marriage in three separate trials just days before the vote. The PTI, meanwhile, was the subject of a sweeping crackdown and blocked from holding rallies and removed from the ballot, forcing its candidates to run as independents. But in one of the biggest election upsets in Pakistans 76-year history, independent candidates backed by Khan are poised to win the most seats in the countrys national assembly. The outcome is seen as a major repudiation of the countrys military, which has an oversized role in politics in the country of some 240 million. Khan waged an unprecedented campaign against the generals after he was ousted from power in 2022, which he blamed on the army. What happens next is unclear as the country enters uncharted territory. This is the first time a major political party has been forced to field its candidates as independents and has won the most seats in parliamentary elections in Pakistan. Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharifs Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), widely believed to have the blessing of the army, said he would seek to form a coalition government after his party secured the second-most seats in the vote. But in a message from prison, Khan claimed victory. Despite being barred from the polls, the PTI has demanded that it has the right to form a government. The army is unlikely to retreat after the election results. Many expect the countrys most powerful institution to play a major behind-the-scenes role as political parties jockey to form a coalition government. The PML-N has entered coalition talks with the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), which came third in the voting, in what the PTI sees as an attempt to prevent Khans loyalists from forming a government. There are also fears that the army could strongarm independent candidates backed by Khan into switching sides. Such scenarios are likely to enrage the considerable support base of Khan, who remains popular, especially among the youth. Many Pakistanis are bracing for uncertainty and upheaval in the days and weeks ahead. Several residents of Kyiv voiced their disapproval of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's decision to replace his top military commander. They spoke to RFE/RL on February 9, a day after Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskiy was named as Ukraine's new army chief. He replaced General Valeriy Zaluzhniy after months of speculation that he was at odds with Zelenskiy over how to handle the war against invading Russian forces. Wounded, exhausted, rag-tag columns of Ukrainian troops withdrew from Debaltseve in February 2015, after Russia-backed separatist fighters encircled the city in the eastern Donbas region and forced the retreat. It was a stunning defeat. Ukrainians were livid, and they blamed the countrys leadership -- Petro Poroshenko was president then -- and the military commanders in charge of the Debaltseve defense. Commanders knew they would give it up a month ago, one angry retreating soldier told RFE/RL as the retreat was under way. Just give it up. They shouldve moved everyone out earlier and not waited for those deaths. They includes Oleksandr Syrskiy, now a colonel general and commander of Ukraines ground forces who, on February 8, was tapped by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to take over as countrys top military commander. The change in command comes at a precarious moment for Ukraines leadership. Zelenskiys decision to promote Syrskiy follows his order dismissing the longtime commander in chief, General Valeriy Zaluzhniy, a figure widely admired among both Ukraines military and society more broadly, as well as in the West. Syrskiys elevation has stirred mixed feelings, grumblings among some Ukrainian troops who remember Debaltseve and, more recently, the fight for Bakhmut, a Donbas city that Russia captured in May 2023 after a brutal 10-month offensive. Some Ukrainian and Western experts questioned the decision to suffer substantial losses in Bakhmut, given that the city had questionable strategic importance. As commander of Ukraines ground forces -- subordinate to Zaluzhniy -- some blamed Syrskiy for that decision, though Zelenskiy is said to have been determined not to cede it to Russian control. But Syrskiy was also praised for helping prevent invading Russian forces from capturing Kyiv in the days after the start of the full-scale war on February 24, 2022. He was decorated with Ukraines highest honor. Syrskiy will still be compared to Zaluzhniy, and therefore you dont envy him, Oleh Saakyan, a Kyiv-based political scientist,told Current Time. Hell be compared to the legendary image of Zaluzhniy; not to the actual person. To win this match is just impossible. Syrskiy will be headed to the electric chair from the start. Zelenskiy believes he needs someone else but what sort of equipment, troop numbers is this new head going to get? said Will Pomeranz, director of the Kennan Institute in Washington, D.C. I dont think [Syrskiy] will be in a better position to wage the war. Taking back territory was always going to be a major challenge. We got to used to victories for Ukraine in the first year of the war, Pomeranz told RFE/RL. Russia can still dig trenches, still mine fields, and I dont know if any new general can deal with that. Frankly, it makes Zelenskiy more exposed, especially if he is suffering a decline of popularity. 'Such Failures Or Misguided Approaches' Born in a Russian province east of Moscow, the 58-year-old Syrskiy, like many senior Ukrainian military officers, received his initial training in the Soviet era, studying at the prestigious Moscow Higher Military Command School and then serving as a Soviet artillery officer. After moving to Ukraine following the Soviet breakup, Syrskiy rose through the ranks. When Russia launched its first invasion in 2014 -- a stealth effort that used military intelligence to fund and arm local fighters in the Donbas -- he was appointed the top commander of what Ukraine called its Anti-Terrorist Operation, to battle the Russia-backed fighters. Debaltseve was one of the first large-scale defeats of Ukrainian troops and was a shock to many Ukrainians. One year later, Syrskiy defended his decisions there. "For us, the withdrawal from Debaltseve was a key moment that delayed the enemy's best forces, he said. After these battles, there were no serious, large-scale attempts to launch an attack. The enemy suffered heavy losses." In 2019, he was appointed commander of Ukraines ground forces, and was a pivotal figure in the run-up to the Russian invasion in February 2022, including the defensive preparations around Kyiv. In the days after February 24, Russian forces moved to seize the capital -- but were thwarted by what observers later said was a combination of smart decisions by Ukrainian commanders, botched maneuvers by Russian officers, and the ingenuity of mid-level Ukrainian officers. Zaluzhniy was widely hailed, as was Syrskiy, who was decorated as a Hero of Ukraine in 2022 for his role. Syrskiy was also credited with some of the command decisions that resulted in one of two counteroffensive successes in late 2022 and early 2023 -- a push in which Ukrainian forces took back a substantial amount of territory in the Kharkiv region, in the northeast. But he was also in charge of decisions to dig in and hold on to Bakhmut, a crossroads city in the Donbas that Russia was hellbent on capturing, and Ukraine was hellbent on defending -- despite dubious battlefield value. The battle cry Fortress Bakhmut was embraced by civilian and military leaders alike. Dubbed the meat grinder, Bakhmut fell after roughly 10 months of a relentless assault that included soldiers from the private mercenary company Wagner, and inmates recruited from Russian prisons. The reputation of certain Ukrainian generals has plummeted to the point where they are now likened to Russian counterparts known for deploying careless frontal assaults, according to a post published on February 7 by Frontelligence Insight, a Ukrainian open-source research organization run by a Ukrainian reserve officer. This situation is exacerbated by the lack of accountability for such failures or misguided approaches. In June 2023, Ukrainian commanders launched a major counteroffensive, aiming to punch through Russian lines in several places. Those efforts, however, faltered by years end, thwarted by deep, well-constructed trench lines and anti-tank defenses that inflicted major losses on Ukraines NATO-trained brigades. For some observers, blame falls squarely on Zaluzhniys shoulders. "The fact is Zaluzhniy presided over a counteroffensive that failed, Mark Cancian, a military analyst at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, told RFE/RL. If you are not succeeding, you need to get someone else in there. Further straining Zaluzhniys standing in the eyes of the Zelenskiy administration: an article Zaluzhniy published in The Economist last fall, in which he described the war as a stalemate. The article irked Zelenskiy, who publicly rebuffed the statement. That, plus Zaluzhniys deep and wide popularity inside and outside the military, added to the perception that he was a political threat to Zelenskiy. The two had also publicly disagreed about whether, and how, to mobilize up to 500,000 new personnel for Ukraines military, a politically fraught decision. In ousting Zaluzhniy, Zelenskiy heaped praise on him, and cited Syrskiys successful defensive experience, including his command of the Kyiv defense and the Kharkiv offense. And in his own public statement on his dismissal, Zaluzhniy wrote that he and Zelenskiy "made a decision on the necessity to change approaches and strategy. In Syrskiy, President Zelenskiy may be expecting a commander in chief who keeps his views out of the public view more than Zaluzhniy while also receiving the best military advice from him, Mick Ryan, a retired Australian army major general,said in a blog post. Among The Rank And File Expectations of Zaluzhniys ouster had stoked grumblings among some Ukrainian troops. With Syrskiys promotion to commander in chief, they grew louder. Under Zaluzhniy, there was confidence that decisions were being made by professionals based on military, not political expediency, an infantry soldier named Iryna who, like other military personnel, asked that only her first name be used. There is no such certainty now. It's not just that General Syrskiy is trusted by fewer soldiers than General Zaluzhniy. The fact is that Zaluzhniys ouster was preceded by a campaign to discredit [him.] It is not clear what Zaluzhniy did wrong, what was the point of throwing mud at him and the entire army, what can Syrskiy do in this situation, she told Donbas.Realities, a unit of RFE/RLs Ukrainian Service. The current layer of generals of the Armed Forces is not modern military management. Unfortunately, said Andriy, a soldier in an airborne assault unit. The new commander in chief -- Syrskiy -- is no exception. We are marching in place, all the while losing the best people in this country. Oleksiy, a gunner in an artillery unit, blamed Zelenskiy for the current battlefield failures, and accused him of trying to shift the blame to Zaluzhniy. Zelenskiy wants to be number one in the world! He wants to be a hero! he said. Although he has nothing to do with any military operation. I believe that this is Zelenskiys most important mistake, which will cost him the trust of the people. And, unfortunately, it will also cost thousands of dead soldiers and the loss of new territory. Most of my friends are reacting with regret to the decision to shuffle commanders, Ukrainian Junior Sergeant Pavlo Kazarin, who is also a journalist, told Current Time. But I repeat: the army is big, up to 1 million people serve in the Ukrainian defense forces, so it would be quite irresponsible on my part to judge the entire mood of the army. Mike Eckel reported from Prague; Todd Prince reported from Washington. With reporting by Serhiy Horbatenko and Darya Kurennaya of RFE/RLs Donbas Realities and Iryna Romaliyska, of Current Time. Emirates Aviation Universitys seventh Water Rocket Competition, held in collaboration with Boeing, saw 202 students from 24 UAE schools participate, where they launched their water rockets. Grade 11 and 12 students from schools across the UAE built rockets using materials at hand. Each year, the challenge for participants is to launch water rockets at a 45-degree angle, powered solely by water and air pressure. Students design creative nose cones and fins for enhanced impact protection. During the competition they also learn how to reduce, reuse, and recycle. This year, teams had two hours to complete the task and were given two attempts to launch their rockets. Professor Ahmad Al Ali, Vice Chancellor of Emirates Aviation University, said: Emirates Aviation University is committed to innovating and fostering creativity in young minds. Our annual Water Rocket Competition is not just exciting for the student community, its also an opportunity to bring in the best and brightest young minds of the country together, challenge them, and encourage them to think about STEM careers. Watching students brainstorm, collaborate, and construct these rockets is an eye-opening experience every year. We hope they are inspired to become leaders in science and engineering. We thank Boeing for their support and for making this challenge a success once again. Kuljit Ghata-Aura, Boeing President in the Middle East, Turkiye, Africa, and Central Asia, said: "From launching the Arab worlds first uncrewed mission to Mars to signing the Artemis Accords, the UAE is rapidly emerging as a leader in space exploration. At Boeing, we have been part of every major US endeavour to escape Earths gravity. We are excited to continue to partner with Emirates Aviation University to inspire a new generation of aerospace scientists and provide students with the opportunity to learn new technical skills from Boeing engineers during the competition." Following the water rocket launches, the judging panel from Emirates Aviation University and Boeing announced Eagle 1 from Islamiya English School, Abu Dhabi as the winning school, after the team launched their rocket to a distance of 99 metres. Eagle 2 from Islamiya English School, Abu Dhabi secured the first runner-up position with 93 metres, and OOW Volts from Our Own High School, Dubai followed as the second runner-up with 92 metres. The annual competition aims to inspire young aeronautical enthusiasts by combining creativity with the principles of rocketry and flight. TradeArabia News Service Finnair is asking passengers to voluntarily weigh themselves along with their luggage at Finland's main airport in Helsinki, pictured here in 2022. Credit - Artur WidakGetty Images Finlands national air carrier, Finnair, announced this week that they would ask passengers to voluntarily weigh themselves along with their luggage at the countrys main airport in Helsinki. The information collected will remain anonymous, and will be used to assist with the airlines total cargo calculations. Finnair currently uses estimates of peoples average weight to determine aircraft balance calculations. This information is essential to determining that the aircraft remains below the set maximum weight required for a safe takeoff Government authorities require Finnair to update these estimates every five years, and Finnair says that it will use the information collected from volunteering passengers in February and April-May of this year to update its estimate. We record the total weight and background information of the customer and their carry-on baggage, but we do not ask for the name or booking number, for example. Only the customer service agent working at the measuring point can see the total weight, so you can participate in the study with peace of mind, Satu Munnukka, Head of Ground Processes at Finnair, said in a statement. Read more: How U.S. Airlines Handle Plus-Sized Passengers Nevertheless, some have criticized the move from the airline, saying that collecting weight data on customers is dehumanizing. In an appearance on U.K. television show Good Morning Britain, model Haley Hasselhoff commented on Finnair's new system, raising concerns that although it's voluntary now, it might become compulsory further down the line. She noted that being weighed at the airport could be triggering for some passengers, especially for anyone with an eating disorder, or in recovery from one. I have had friends go to airlines and not know that there was a disclaimer that they were going to be weighed. Thats triggering said Hasselhoff. Story continues Others have defended the move, saying that while the option of weighing oneself before a flight might make people uncomfortable, it is worth the slight discomfort if it helps ensure that passengers are safe. In contrast to Hasselhoff, broadcaster Neev Spencer said: "I think it is about operational efficiency... weighing yourself, whether you're underweight or overweight, can be a good thing." Contact us at letters@time.com. As Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine approaches the two-year mark, Russian forces are making small advances in some locations along the 1,200-kilometer front as President Vladimir Putin throws more and more men into battle. Since New Years, Russian forces have captured 100 square kilometers in eastern and southern Ukraine, according to the Washington-based Institute for the Study of War.* In the coming days or weeks, Russian troops could overrun the heavily damaged industrial city of Avdiyivka in the Donetsk region, marking Moscows first major victory since the capture of Bakhmut in May 2023. Meanwhile, a potentially crucial battle is being fought in Washington, where U.S. President Joe Bidens proposal for $60 billion in military aid for Kyiv has been stymied in Congress for months. After multiple twists and turns, the fate of the weapons package remains clouded -- and the effects are being felt at the front, where Ukrainian troops are forced to conserve firepower. U.S. military aid slowed to a trickle at the end of last year and came to a halt in January as authorized Congressional funding ran out. The Ukrainians are obviously suffering from shell hunger, George Barros, an analyst at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), told RFE/RL. They are running low on critical supplies and the Russians understand that and timed their counteroffensive in order to capitalize on the situation. He was referring to small-scale advances Russian forces have made around Avdiyivka and in several other locations since Ukraines own counteroffensive, launched last June, fizzled out in the fall after falling far short of its objectives. Russian forces are currently firing ammunition at about five times the rate of their Ukrainian counterparts, Michael Kofman, a military analyst at the Washington-based Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said in a podcast published on January 30. That rate had been two to one in Ukraines favor last summer, Kofman said. 'Huge Impact' If Congress does not pass a new aid package, U.S. military equipment deliveries to Ukraine will fall 80 to 90 percent by the summer of 2024, Mark Cancian, a military analyst at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, told RFE/RL. The flow of U.S. military aid peaked last summer at about $1.5 billion a month, he said. Deliveries will not run entirely dry anytime soon: Even though the United States has allocated all the funding approved by Congress, it takes months or even years for some of the military aid to arrive -- so weapons and other items needed on the battlefield will continue to make their way to Ukraine throughout the year, Cancian said. But if further aid is not approved, Ultimately it will have a huge impact, he said. Armies in conflict need a continuous flow of replacement weapons, ammunition and supplies to keep operating. Ultimately, their line would crack in some place. Cancian said the war could progress along the lines of the Soviet invasion of Finland in 1939-40. The Finns initially inflicted heavy losses on the larger Soviet force but Moscow kept on hammering at the line and the Finnish lines were breaking. That is when the Finns made the peace deal, he said, suggesting that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiys government could come under increasing pressure to seek a cease-fire agreement with Russia, which currently occupies about 20 percent of Ukraine. Many in Ukraine, and among its backers abroad, warn that forging an agreement that leaves Russia in control of a chunk of Ukraine would weaken the West and encourage Moscow to seek more gains later. Zelenskiy has vowed regain control over all of Ukraine, but the military is facing manpower shortages in addition to a deficit of ammunition, and that goal seems far out of reach for now. General Valeriy Zaluzhniy, who was dismissed by Zelenskiy on February 8 from his post as commander-in-chief of the armed forces, said in an article published last week that Kyiv must change its fighting strategy in the face of a reduction in military support from key allies. Since the start of Russias full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022, the United States has approved four aid packages for Ukraine totaling $113 billion. More than half of that has been allocated for defense needs, such as anti-tank weapons, air defense systems, long-range rockets, armored vehicles, and large quantities of 155-millimeter ammunition. In August, as the fourth package approached depletion amid Ukraines counteroffensive, the Biden administration asked Congress to approve a fifth support bill totaling $24 billion. Right-wing Republicans in the House of Representatives balked, demanding that any aid to Ukraine be tied to immigration reform and greater funding for the U.S. border with Mexico. Biden later proposed a package that included about $60 billion for Ukraine aid as well as billions of dollars for Israel and Taiwan, while also funding border security and immigration reform. On February 7, after four months of bipartisan negotiations and several concessions by the White House on border security, Republicans shot that bill down. In a speech to the nation a day earlier, as the fate of the bipartisan bill became clear, Biden accused the Republicans of seeking to kill the legislation at the behest of former President Donald Trump, who is on track for the Republican nomination to challenge him in the November 2024 election. The clock is ticking, Biden said. Every week, every month that passes without new aid for Ukraine means fewer artillery shells, fewer air defense systems, fewer tools for Ukraine to defend itself against this Russian onslaught. Just what Putin wants. Valeriy Chaliy, who served as Ukraine's ambassador to Washington from 2015 to 2019, told RFE/RL that the reputation of the United States is on the line. If Congress fails to pass an aid bill for allies, authoritarian governments such as those in China, Iran, Russia, and North Korea will see America's weakness, he said. Eager to secure the long-stalled aid for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, Democrats have proposed a modified bill, stripped of the immigration reform, and the Senate agreed on moving it toward a vote, which could take place next week. Even if it passes the upper chamber, however, experts say the modified bill will face a tough battle in the House of Representatives, where Republicans hold a slim majority. 'They Need This Stuff Now' Meanwhile, Russia has stepped up its ground and air assaults, including attacks aimed at undermining Ukraines own ability to make weapons. It has been targeting Ukrainian military units and weapons production sites with missiles and drones, U.S. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters on February 6. Russia is trying to eliminate Ukraines ability to organically produce many of the munitions that they need to defend themselves, Kirby said, adding that the barrage of missiles is forcing Ukraine to use its stock of air defense munitions at a fast clip. Part of the [Russian] tactic here is to throw metal into the sky, knowing that the Ukrainians are going to have to throw metal back at it, and that there's not a steady stream or reliable stream of backfill for that air defense capabilities, he said, suggesting it was crucial to get Ukraine air defense and ammunition. We know for a fact that some of their battlefield commanders on the ground are making tough decisions about how many munitions they're going to fire on a given day at a given target. They need this stuff now, he said. Cancian said that the United States has been ramping up weapons production and should have stockpiles of ammunition and other supplies that can be shipped quickly to Ukraine if Congress approves new aid. European Union countries are also stepping up to the plate, rebuilding their atrophied defense industrial base in part to support Ukraine, Barros said. Some companies in the EU -- as well as in the United States -- are planning to produce weapons in Ukraine to reduce Kyivs dependence on fickle foreign aid. Barros said the Europeans are doing as much as they can at the moment, with some countries surpassing the United States in aid in gross domestic product (GDP) and per capita terms. Nonetheless, Ukraine can't rely exclusively on Europe at this point. The United States is in a unique position to be able to help keep Ukraine in the fight, he said. With reporting by RFE/RLs Ukrainian Service *CORRECTION: This article previously cited a figure of 707 square kilometers taken by Russia. jetcityimage / Getty Images Food stamp recipients across several states are going months without their SNAP benefits. The problem is so bad that the federal government is forced to take action. Food Stamps: 4 Major Changes to SNAP Coming in 2024 More: 11 Documents You Need To Apply for SNAP Benefits The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is funded at the federal level and administered at the state and local levels. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 requires that all eligible households receive SNAP benefits within 30 days of application, or seven days for those with expedited benefits. In Colorado, the state is so slow at processing SNAP applications that it ranks in the bottom five states now under a corrective action plan with the federal government. Colorado is severely out of compliance with federal requirements, the USDAs Food and Nutrition Service warned the state on Oct. 3, The Colorado Sun reported. This has resulted in a hardship to needy households across Colorado who are not consistently receiving access to SNAP benefits within 7 or 30 days. Although some counties are processing more than 90% of new applications within required timeframes, others are only seeing rates around 50%, according to data obtained by The Colorado Sun. In counties that are the furthest behind, employees work mandatory overtime to keep up with the backlog of applications. The state vowed to submit regular reports to the government detailing how services are improving. Colorado is just one of many states struggling to deliver timely benefits. Newsweek reported workers at Tennessees Department of Human Services (DHS) transitioned to a new system for processing applications, which has been blamed for the states delays. A DHS spokesperson told the publication that approximately 20,000 applications older than 30 days are still pending. The pandemic and higher grocery prices have increased SNAP enrollment numbers over the last several years. In an interview with Reuters, USDA Deputy Under Secretary for Nutrition Stacy Dean said state SNAP agencies are struggling to support higher caseloads. Story continues On Feb. 8, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack sent letters to the governors of 44 states and the District of Columbia, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands urging them to reduce error rates and improve SNAP timeliness, Reuters reported. Only six states didnt receive letters. More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Food Stamps: Why the Federal Government Is Stepping In on SNAP Benefit Delays To Help David O'Sullivan A Wicklow man who hijacked a car using a knife after being driven to Dublin to buy crack cocaine has been jailed for two and a half years. Dale Kavanagh (29), of Upper Main Street, Arklow, Co Wicklow, appeared before Judge Orla Crowe in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on Thursday having pleaded guilty to assault causing harm, unlawful seizure of a vehicle and driving with no insurance in Castle Crescent, Clondalkin on March 3rd, 2022. Garda Tom Balfe told John Moher BL, prosecuting, that Kavanagh was driven to Dublin to buy crack cocaine by a man he knew. He proceeded to attack that man and hijack his car with the use of a knife. The car's owner was sitting in his vehicle on Main Street in Arklow, Co Wicklow when he saw Kavanagh and another man. Kavanagh and the car's owner knew each other. The two men asked him to drive them to Dublin in exchange for 40 and money for petrol. They were travelling to Dublin in order to get some crack cocaine. The man drove the two to a car park in Castle Crescent, Clondalkin. Kavanagh and the other man then got out and went to a house. When they returned to the car, Kavanagh sat in the back seat. He then took out a knife and put it to the car owner's neck. A struggle between the three men ensued, and Kavanagh hit the car's owner a number of times with the handle of the knife. Both men also struck the car's owner with punches. Kavanagh attempted to retrieve the keys from the ignition and the car's owner tried to get out. Getaway The car was then driven off while its owner was hanging out of it, dragging the man along the ground for approximately 10 meters. Onlookers heard him screaming in pain from being dragged along the road, with one eyewitness saying it looked like one of the wheels went over him. When gardai arrived, they found the man bleeding profusely and disorientated. He was taken to Tallaght Garda station and a medical examination showed the man had lacerations to his hand and road rash on his hip. Gardai spotted the hijacked car about two hours later, noting a large amount of blood on its exterior. The two men who had been involved in the earlier incident were arrested, and officers found the knife used in the hijacking under a seat, as well as the car owner's wallet, from which 200 was missing. Kavanagh was interviewed and said the car's owner went psycho, which is why they drove off in his car. Vincent Heneghan SC, defending, said his client had begun using drugs at the age of 14 and had a chronic heroin addiction from the age of 21. He does appear to be a good person who does bad things arising out of his drug addiction, he said, adding that his client does not fully remember what happened. Mr Heneghan told the court his client was genuinely remorseful for his actions and is currently drug free. Kavanagh has 14 previous offences, including convictions for affray, production of an article, and misuse of drugs. Sentencing In sentencing, Judge Crowe described the incident as especially lawless and said whilst the injured party was facilitating the consumption of drugs, he did not deserve what was meted out to him. She said the aggravating factors include that Kavanagh had committed the crimes while on bail for another offence, as well as his previous convictions. Judge Crowe also noted that Kavanagh was placed at a high risk of reoffending in the probation report. She said the mitigating factors were his guilty plea, that he apologised, that he was in the grip of a drug problem and that he enjoys family support. Judge Crowe also commended gardai for finding Kavanagh and the car so quickly. The judge sentenced Kavanagh to a period of three years imprisonment, but suspended the final six months on strict conditions. The sentence is to run consecutively to a two and a half year sentence he is already serving. Kavanagh was also disqualified from driving for two years. 'Delhi Chalo' Farmers Protest News three government ministers met with farmer leaders in Chandigarh to address their concerns 'Delhi Chalo' Farmers Protest News: Amidst the farmers' call for protest in Delhi-NCR, three government ministers met with farmer leaders in Chandigarh to address their concerns. The team included Union ministers Piyush Goyal, Arjun Munda, and Nityanand Rai, who traveled to Chandigarh to engage with the farmer representatives. The farmers have been gearing up for a 'Delhi Chalo' protest march on February 13 to advocate for their demands, which include a law ensuring a minimum support price for crops. Advertisement Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann reported that progress was made on various issues, expressing optimism about future meetings. Simultaneously, a large number of farmers from around 100 villages in Noida and Greater Noida caused traffic disruptions in Delhi-NCR. Attempting to march towards Parliament, their actions led to heavy traffic jams on the Noida-Greater Noida Expressway, DND loop, Kanlindi Kunj bridge, around Dalit Prerna Sthal, Atta Chowk, and Rajnigandha Chowk in Noida yesterday. (For more news apart from 'Delhi Chalo' farmers' protest, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Snapchat Down in India Memes: Users share memes on social media as their snaps is near end As many as 80 percent of the users were facing issues. Snapchat Down in India Memes: Snapchat users in India, who are often seen sending snaps to maintain streaks, reported a technical glitch as they failed to send messages and snaps to their friends, especially when their streaks were near the end. However, the services resumed after over an hour of outage. As per the outage-detecting platform 'Downdetector', as many as 80 percent of the users were facing issues with the applications while the company did not acknowledge the outage, at first. Advertisement Social media users started mocking the platform by posting memes, thoughts, and trolls. One of the users said: "Yesterday, Snapchat fired many of their employees. Today, Snapchat is down. The reason behind that could be a fired employee pushed the wrong code into production." Snapchat Down in India Memes: Me running to X to find out whether snapchat is down or not.#snapchat #snapchatdown pic.twitter.com/XFGz6LgP7b Advertisement February 9, 2024 People running to Twitter after their sc stops working #snapchatdown pic.twitter.com/p0Z8NfTfz1 (@kashir_koor_) February 9, 2024 When your Streaks ends and Snapchat is also Down.#snapchatdown pic.twitter.com/UdwWz4cZld Advertisement February 9, 2024 (For more news apart from Snapchat Down in India, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Vladimir Putin Interview With Tucker Carlson on Russia Ukraine War Latest Update Vladimir Putin Interview With Tucker Carlson Vladimir Putin Interview With Tucker Carlson on Russia Ukraine War Latest Update: Russian President Vladimir Putin said it's impossible to beat Russia in Ukraine, but he assured he doesn't want to extend the conflict to nearby countries like Poland and Latvia. During an interview with Tucker Carlson, Putin emphasized that he has no plans to claim territory in Europe. He mentioned that Russian troops would only be sent into neighboring nations if Russia faced an attack first. Advertisement Putin firmly stated in an online interview that getting involved in a global war is absolutely not an option, as it goes against common sense and would bring humanity to the brink of devastation. He emphasized the importance of a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and revealed that Russia is in contact with the United States. Putin proposed that for a ceasefire, the U.S. should stop supplying weapons to Ukraine, stating that this would lead to a swift end to the conflict. During the two-hour interview, Putin discussed the history of Eastern Europe and Russia, expressing a willingness to negotiate peace with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. However, he mentioned that Moscow has specific goals in Ukraine, including what he referred to as "de-Nazification." Advertisement In response to a question about releasing a imprisoned Wall Street Journal reporter as a gesture of decency, Putin indicated that a deal is possible, highlighting that Russia has made many gestures of goodwill. However, he expressed frustration that these gestures have not been reciprocated, emphasizing the potential for such actions if reciprocal steps are taken by their partners. (For more news apart from Vladimir Putin Interview With Tucker Carlson on Russia Ukraine War Latest Update, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Mitsubishi Estate Company, Limited. (MITEY.PK), a Japanese real estate developer, on Friday reported a decline in net profit for the third-quarter. However, the company reported a rise in revenue. In addition, Mitsubishi Estate has reaffirmed its annual net profit guidance. For the three-month period, the firm reported a net income of 77.547 billion yen, compared with 102.809 billion yen, reported for the same period last year. Operating income dropped to 146.821 billion yen from previous year's 200.012 billion yen, mainly due to the absence of large overseas capital gains. Profit from International Business plunged to 26.781 billion yen from 69.178 billion yen a year ago. Loss from Investment Management Business stood at 3.593 billion yen as against a profit of 19.382 billion last year. Operating revenue was 926.448 billion yen, up from previous year's 906.324 billion yen. Looking ahead, for the full year, Mitsubishi Estate said it still expects a net profit of 166 billion yen. The company has revised up its operating income guidance, which is now 267 billion yen versus the previous outlook of 264 billion yen. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News New gen Duster SUV made its global debut under the Dacia brand recently Now, first photos of Duster with Renault branding have been revealed In response to the escalating demand for compact and mid-size SUVs in the Indian automotive market, Renault is gearing up to launch the new generation Duster. The global debut of this eagerly awaited model took place a few months ago under the Dacia brand, a subsidiary of Renault. Now, the first images of the Renault-branded Duster have been unveiled, offering a glimpse into the exterior and interior enhancements of this popular crossover. Distinctive Design Renault badge The exterior design of the new Renault Duster showcases distinctive changes, particularly in the front section. The vehicle boasts a unique radiator grille adorned with the Renault badging, replacing the customary rhombus emblem. Despite these cosmetic alterations, the dimensions of the Duster remain consistent, with a length of 4343 mm and a wheelbase of 2657 mm. Moving to the interior, 2025 Renault Duster closely mirrors its Romanian counterpart, the Dacia Duster, with only the steering wheel emblems distinguishing the two. Higher trim levels feature a cutting-edge 7-inch virtual dashboard and a 10.1-inch touchscreen multimedia system, elegantly rising above the front panel. The driver-centric orientation of the tablet and center console enhances the overall driving experience. While images of the simpler variants interiors are yet to be revealed, it is expected that basic models will feature analog instruments and a basic setup. 2025 Duster Engine Options Under the hood, the Turkish market will see the 2025 Renault Duster equipped with a variety of engine options to cater to diverse preferences. A three-cylinder 1.0 TCe engine, delivering 100 hp and running on gasoline, will be among the choices. Additionally, a mild-hybrid version with a 1.2 TCe gasoline turbo 3 cylinder engine, generating 130 horsepower, and a 48-volt starter-generator will be available, exclusively offering all-wheel drive. At the top of the range is the E-Tech hybrid, incorporating a four-cylinder 1.6 engine and an electric motor, resulting in a robust total output of 140 hp. While the Dacia Duster for Europe is manufactured in Romania, the production site for the Renault Duster is located in Turkey. Interestingly, in Turkey, the previous Duster model is presented under the Dacia brand, while the new generation will be marketed as a Renault. For the Indian market, the Renault Duster will be produced at the Renault Nissan plant in Chennai, with the anticipated launch set for sometime next year (second half 2025). Launch Plans and Market Competition In Turkey, sales of the new generation Renault Duster are scheduled to commence in the second quarter of this year. Meanwhile, Indian consumers can eagerly anticipate the arrival of both a 5-seater and a 7-seater variant of the new Duster. The 5-seater model is poised to compete with established players in its segment, such as the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. On the other hand, the 7-seater Duster will enter the market as a formidable contender against SUVs like the Hyundai Alcazar, Tata Safari, and MG Hector Plus. As opposed to its predecessor, Toyota Corolla Cross facelift brings new features and equipment along with design changes The Corolla nametag has been diversified by the company for some time and the Crossover SUV version of it has garnered a lot of attention in global markets. Called Corolla Cross, it is a Crossover SUV based on TNGA-C platform. For 2024, the company has unveiled Toyota Corolla Cross Facelift with refreshed fascia and new features. Toyota Corolla Cross Facelift Debuts With the facelift, Toyota has modernised its Crossover SUV to keep up with growing trends. The facelift breaks cover three years after original Corolla Cross debuted in Thai market. With this update, Toyota is brining ASEAN-spec Corolla Cross closer to the one sold in other global markets like Japan and Europe. Toyota has unveiled Corolla Cross facelift in four trim levels Sport Plus, HEV Premium, HEV Premium Luxury and HEV GR Sport. Price start from THB 999,000 (approx Rs. 23.10 lakh) for base Sport Plus trim, THB 1,094,000 (approx Rs. 25.30 lakh) for HEV Premium, THB 1,204,000 (approx Rs. 27.85 lakh) for HEV Premium Luxury and THB 1,254,000 (approx Rs. 29 lakh) for HEV GR Sport. HEV in the trim names suggest that they are Hybrid Electric Vehicles and only the base Sport Plus trim is non hybrid. Speaking of, the non hybrid powertrain setup comprises of Toyotas 2ZR-FBE 1.8L naturally aspirated petrol engine with 140 bhp of peak power and 177 Nm of peak torque. The Hybrid 2ZR-FXE 1.8L unit delivers 98 bhp and 142 Nm from the engine and a 72 bhp and 163 Nm from an electric motor driving the wheels. Safety equipment with Toyota Corolla Cross facelift includes blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as standard. Toyota Safaty Sense ADAS suite is offered from HEV Premium Luxury onwards. Other safety tech include Stability Control, Traction Control, ABS, EBD, Hill Start Assist, TPMS, 7 airbags among others. Exterior colour options include Celestile Gray Metallic, Metal Stream Metallic, Platinum White Pearl, Attitude Black Mica and Cement Gray Metallic. Top-spec HEV GR Sport gets Platinum White Pearl with black roof, Red Mica Metallic with black roof, and Attitude Black Mica shades. Design differences The new design differences are subtle but noticeable. The headlights are new with more intricate LED setup. There is a sleeker upper grill element, followed by a honey-comb main grille below. There are more creases and C-shaped air curtains in lower bumper that lend an aggressive look. Wheels are new and are 18-inchers across. Only, GR Sport trim gets different designs. On the inside, Toyota Corolla Cross Facelift gets an electronic parking brake with auto-hold function, and a 12.3-inch instrument cluster from HEV Premium Luxury trim onwards. The 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment screen is standard and gets wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Facelift brings LED interior lights too. Interior colour options include Black or Dark Rose. Southern California hotel workers, including these picketing outside Hyatt Andaz West Hollywood in July, have been staging intermittent strikes for months. (Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times) Five more Southern California hotels have reached tentative labor agreements covering about 650 workers, the latest settlements in a months-long strike that at times has been marked by violence. In all, Unite Here Local 11 has signed tentative agreements with 34 out of some 60 properties in Los Angeles and Orange counties initially targeted by intermittent walkouts beginning in July. The union has said it is the largest hotel strike in modern U.S. history, involving some 15,000 cooks, housekeepers, dishwashers, servers, porters and front desk agents. Four Hyatt hotels Hyatt Shay in Culver City, Hyatt Regency Long Beach, Hyatt Centric The Pike Long Beach and Hyatt Andaz West Hollywood reached tentative agreements, the union said Thursday. Sofitel, a French-style hotel in Beverly Hills, reached a tentative deal with the union last week. As with the previous settlements, the union declined to provide details but said the deals will raise wages, strengthen pensions and increase investments in healthcare. The contracts will need to be put to a ratification vote by workers at the various hotels. Read more: Striking hotel workers were hit by metal ball bearings, union says The terms of the tentative 4-year collective bargaining agreement have "our colleagues best interests in mind," said Michael DAngelo, Hyatt Hotels Corp.'s head of labor relations overseeing the Americas region. "Our purpose is to care for people so they can be their best. Our colleagues are the heart of our business, and their well being continues to remain a top priority," D'Angelo said in an emailed statement. Lourdes Nolasco, 63, a housekeeper at Hyatt Andaz for about 15 years, received a text message on Wednesday from a union organizer with news of the tentative agreement. Nolasco said she was so excited that she cried happy tears and "felt goosebumps." The tentative deal came after a three-day strike by Andaz workers that ended Sunday. Story continues Nolasco said some hotel guests were visibly displeased about the noisy picket line and made rude gestures at striking workers. On Saturday a passerby ripped a plastic horn out of the hands of one protester, Nolasco said. Read more: Take your union and shove it. When your L.A. hotel stay comes with a strike picket line Over the months, the strike has taken some ugly turns. In July, strikers reported being splashed with urine and pelted with eggs. In August, the union filed a complaint with the National Labor Relations Board alleging that striking workers and their supporters had been attacked multiple times as they protested outside properties in Los Angeles and Orange counties. Last month, the union told police that picketers outside Hotel Figueroa in downtown Los Angeles were hit with metal pellets fired by an air gun. Although the last few days of striking were stressful and intense, Nolasco said, she believes that it helped get the hotel to an agreement. "The strike was long and hard, we were sometimes out in the cold, and raining, but thats what a fight is going to be like," Nolasco said. Kurt Petersen, co-president of Unite Here Local 11, in an emailed statement praised Hyatt and Sofitel for "recognizing that their workers are essential to their success. Petersen said the union's members "have never once faltered in this fight to win a wage that allows them to live near where they work. They have overcome intimidation, violence, and nothing will stop them until all hotels including those run by private equity behemoths sign this agreement." Last month, the union reached a tentative deal with Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City covering about 250 workers. Peter Hillan, a spokesperson for the Hotel Assn. of Los Angeles, previously has voiced skepticism about the lack of transparency regarding the terms of the deals. If thats really a ready-to-go deal, it should be put forth for ratification, Hillan said in December. A coordinated bargaining group said to represent owners and operators of more than 40 Southern California properties had been involved in sporadic negotiations for several months, but it appears to have dissolved, Unite Here Local 11 spokesperson Maria Hernandez said. The union now is negotiating directly with hotel owners and operators, she said. Keith Grossman, an attorney representing the coordinated group in talks with the union, did not respond to questions about whether the group had dissolved. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. The Lemon Grove Bakery is having a soft grand opening on Friday. The restaurant group responsible for delivering Dunkin Donuts to San Diego County is also bringing back a beloved bakery to Lemon Grove. Burton Restaurants, LLC will open the Lemon Grove Bakery on Friday. The bakery used to be called Grove Pastry Shop and has been closed since November 2015. Helen Ofield, president of the Lemon Grove Historical Society, said there will be a soft opening of the bakery from 6 a.m. until 6 p.m. Friday, 3308 Main St.. Advertisement People are really straining at the leash for this, Ofield said. Theres a poster on the door that says you can already order cakes (at lemongrovebakery@burtonfoods.biz). It will be so wonderful to have it back. The bakery, housed in a historic 105-year-old Mission-style building near the giant lemon downtown, has been a Lemon Grove tradition for nearly 70 years. The Grove Pastry Shop opened in 1947 on Broadway. The Ohlund family, immigrants from Sweden, bought it in 1955. The Ohlunds owned and operated the shop from 1955 to 2002. In 1980, they moved the bakery into the citys former 1912-built General Store at Main and Pacific streets, where it has remained since. The Ohlunds sold the bakery to Rick Rehan in 2002; Teresa Johnson bought it in 2005. Interim manager Kimberly Harrison said when she was cleaning on Sunday and had the door open, several people walked up and asked when the bakery would be ready for business. When I told them Friday, one guy said, What time on Friday? I want 3 dozen donuts! Harrison said. Harrison said Jen McCurdy would be stepping in to manage the store once it was up and running. Jen plans to keep the lemon shortcake and strawberry whipped cream cakes and keep it as close as we can as far as cake goes to what people remember, Harrison said. The store will serve cakes, cupcakes, danishes, croissants and a variety of donuts. Burton Restaurants last December opened Dunkin Donuts on East Plaza Boulevard in National City. It also has a store downtown San Diego at the Embassy Suites and has a presence on three local military sites. Viewing insider transactions for Greenland Technologies Holding Corporation's (NASDAQ:GTEC ) over the last year, we see that insiders were net buyers. This means that a larger number of shares were purchased by insiders in relation to shares sold. While we would never suggest that investors should base their decisions solely on what the directors of a company have been doing, we would consider it foolish to ignore insider transactions altogether. View our latest analysis for Greenland Technologies Holding Greenland Technologies Holding Insider Transactions Over The Last Year Over the last year, we can see that the biggest insider purchase was by CEO & President Raymond Z. Wang for US$100k worth of shares, at about US$1.50 per share. Although we like to see insider buying, we note that this large purchase was at significantly below the recent price of US$3.30. Because the shares were purchased at a lower price, this particular buy doesn't tell us much about how insiders feel about the current share price. The chart below shows insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last year. By clicking on the graph below, you can see the precise details of each insider transaction! Greenland Technologies Holding is not the only stock insiders are buying. So take a peek at this free list of growing companies with insider buying. Does Greenland Technologies Holding Boast High Insider Ownership? Many investors like to check how much of a company is owned by insiders. We usually like to see fairly high levels of insider ownership. Greenland Technologies Holding insiders own 47% of the company, currently worth about US$21m based on the recent share price. This kind of significant ownership by insiders does generally increase the chance that the company is run in the interest of all shareholders. So What Do The Greenland Technologies Holding Insider Transactions Indicate? The fact that there have been no Greenland Technologies Holding insider transactions recently certainly doesn't bother us. On a brighter note, the transactions over the last year are encouraging. Judging from their transactions, and high insider ownership, Greenland Technologies Holding insiders feel good about the company's future. While we like knowing what's going on with the insider's ownership and transactions, we make sure to also consider what risks are facing a stock before making any investment decision. At Simply Wall St, we found 4 warning signs for Greenland Technologies Holding that deserve your attention before buying any shares. Story continues 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. Hong Kong-based marine tech start-up Clearbot is set to launch a new generation of bigger solar-powered autonomous boats to boost its efforts to clean up polluted waters in India. Clearbot's latest fleet of self-driving electric boats will each have the capacity to pick up around 500kg of plastic waste and other rubbish from the ocean when they are expected to be deployed in March. That is double the capacity of each of the company's current water-borne robotic cleaners operating in the seas and lakes of India. The start-up founded by University of Hong Kong graduates is hoping to electrify the marine services industry, according to Utkarsh Goel, co-founder and chief technology officer. 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. "We want to build these boats that do this dirty, dirty job that is happening with [manned, diesel] boats around the world and automate them and make them more sustainable," said Goel in an interview. Established in 2019, Clearbot started off as a student project to help Indonesian surfers clean up waterways efficiently, as locals were unable to deal with the flow of rubbish. The project led Goel and co-founder Sidhant Gupta to understand the demand for sustainable infrastructure in the marine services industry globally. In the past year, Clearbot has deployed 13 boats which can each collect up to 250kg of plastic waste per day to tackle projects in Hong Kong and India, Goel said. The self-navigating electric vessels collect waste from the surface of the water and deposit it in designated areas for collection and recycling. India accounts for around 13 per cent of all plastics in the world's oceans, according to a study published in the Science Advances research journal in 2021. Clearbot did a pilot project in September in the northeast Indian city of Shillong, showcasing its ability to collect 600kg to 700kg of waste from a lake there in the space of three days. It also has a project in Bengaluru in southern India. Story continues "Most of the growth that our company expects to have is in India. We expect to scale up in India because there is enough demand," said Goel. "In India there's huge volumes of trash [in the waters], and this year we are hoping that we will make a real impact with the product that we have." Clearbot has started carrying out demonstrations of its new, bigger boats for commercial use in India, and hopes to deploy them in the next year, said Goel. A Clearbot fleet in the harbour in Hong Kong. Photo: Clearbot alt=A Clearbot fleet in the harbour in Hong Kong. Photo: Clearbot> At least 11 million tonnes of plastic enter the world's oceans every year, equivalent to one truckload being dumped into the sea every minute, creating substantial threats to the marine ecosystem and to humans, according to environmental group WWF. Plastics account for at least 85 per cent of total marine waste, according to the United Nations. Oceans help mitigate climate change with their capacity to capture carbon dioxide and store oxygen. They cover over 70 per cent of the Earth's surface, absorb around a quarter of all greenhouse gas emissions, and capture 90 per cent of the excess heat generated by those emissions, according to the United Nations. Polluting the oceans will not only harm marine biodiversity, but also damage the natural ecosystems' ability to act as a carbon sink to absorb greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. Clearbot produces absolutely no carbon emissions, because it uses solar energy to power its fleet of electric boats, rather than diesel. "There's a huge potential for disruption in this space because we see that the current boats that are operating for all kinds of marine tasks are very polluting," said Goel. "We want to be the leader that brings in the electric revolution, like Tesla has done for cars." Clearbot rents out its boats under contract for a fixed amount on a monthly or daily basis. "We do this just like any other marine service - we provide our robots as a service," said Goel. "We've generated enough revenue to keep ourselves afloat and keep our business running." In 2022, Clearbot launched a one-year partnership with Sino Group to clean up the marina at the developer's Gold Coast residential complex in Tuen Mun. Sino Land said it was the first developer in Hong Kong to provide a test bed for the autonomous cleaning boats in its 2022 sustainability report. "We are actively discussing additional collaborations to further enhance our efforts in creating a healthier and more sustainable future," said a Sino Group spokesperson. Goel said Clearbot received a US$4 million valuation in its seed funding round in September 2022, which attracted backers such as Alibaba Entrepreneurship Fund, Gobi Partners GBA and CarbonX Global. "Seeing the way in which they have commercialised their innovative concepts into enterprise graded robots-as-a-service solutions has given us confidence that Clearbot will continue to create impact in the marine services industry," said Cindy Chow, executive director of the Alibaba Hong Kong Entrepreneurs Fund, in a statement at the time. 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. IBA SA Highly complementary acquisition continues IBAs expansion strategy to lead the Radiotherapy, Medical Imaging Dosimetry and Quality Assurance markets globally Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium, February 9, 2024 IBA (Ion Beam Applications S.A., EURONEXT), the world leader in particle accelerator technology and a world-leading provider of dosimetry and quality assurance (QA) solutions, announced today it has signed an agreement to acquire all the assets of Radcal Corporation, a leader in diagnostic X-ray measurement based in California, USA. Through this acquisition, IBA will further strengthen its Medical Imaging Quality Assurance offering and its presence in the US market. Closing is expected on February 29, 2024. The acquisition is expected to be revenue accretive and EBIT positive from 2024. Radcal is a pioneer in the X-ray imaging market, having introduced the first instrument providing comprehensive measures of X-ray dose with the ability to interchange sensors without loss in accuracy, almost 50 years ago. Today, Radcals systems remain a market leader, generating revenues of approximately USD 6 million in 2023 and employing 35 people. The combination of Radcal into IBAs business will support its continued growth in the dosimetry and quality assurance market, giving it an even greater foothold in the important US market and expanding its product offering beyond OEM and into the clinical setting. Further details of the acquisition were not disclosed. Olivier Legrain, Chief Executive Officer at IBA, said: This acquisition strengthens our position as a global leader in Medical Imaging Dosimetry and Quality Assurance, complementing our leading position in the radiotherapy market and diversifying our revenue sources. We see tremendous potential for the combined business both in the US and the international market and look forward to working closely with the Radcal team to continue the strong growth of its leading offering. Story continues Jean-Marc Bothy, President of IBA Dosimetry, added: We are delighted to welcome the talented and dedicated Radcal team to IBA group. We are committed to providing the very best in medical imaging and radiotherapy quality assurance to our customers globally, contributing to our ultimate goal to treat more patients safely. Radcals growing product offering will enable us to reach new customers in the US and expand our presence in the Medical Imaging Quality Assurance market internationally. ***ENDS*** About IBA IBA (Ion Beam Applications S.A.) is the world leader in particle accelerator technology. The company is the leading supplier of equipment and services in the field of proton therapy, considered to be the most advanced form of radiation therapy available today. IBA is also a leading player in the fields of industrial sterilization, radiopharmaceuticals and dosimetry. The company, based in Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium, employs approximately 2,000 people worldwide. IBA is a certified B Corporation (B Corp) meeting the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance. IBA is listed on the pan-European stock exchange EURONEXT (IBA: Reuters IBAB.BR and Bloomberg IBAB.BB). More information can be found at: www.iba-worldwide.com CONTACTS Soumya Chandramouli Chief Financial Officer +32 10 475 890 Investorrelations@iba-group.com Olivier Lechien Corporate Communication Director +32 10 475 890 communication@iba-group.com ICR Consilium Amber Fennell, Lucy Featherstone +44 (0) 20 3709 5700 IBA@consilium-comms.com Attachment The Chernobyl disaster caused a mutation among the wolves and dogs exposed to it. The Nuclear Power Plant explosion in 1986 sparked a surprising evolution that could help find a cure for cancer. Mutant Wolves From Chernobyl Disaster Due to the extremely high radiation levels, people have been evacuated from Chernobyl and the surrounding areas ever since the power plant disaster in 1986. Since there are no humans in the Chernobyl Evacuation Zone (CEZ), which has radiation levels of 11.28 millirem, six times more than what is permitted for worker exposure, wildlife has started to thrive in the area. Bison and grizzly bears amble among the trees while foxes and lynxes creep through the long grass. The region is home to more than 200 species of birds, including boar, elk, deer, and raccoons. Mutant wolves exploring the Chernobyl wastes developed new superpowers that could help save human lives. Researchers discovered that the immune systems of the animals living in the Chernobyl Evacuation Zone (CEZ) had been genetically modified to exhibit resistance to cancer. Evolutionary scientist Cara Love of Princeton University and her study team set out in 2014 to find out how animals withstand radiation that causes cancer. Love and her team collected blood samples to track the wolves' movements and radiation exposure levels in real-time. They fitted them with GPS collars equipped with radiation dosimeters. "We get real-time measurements of where they are and how much [radiation] they are exposed to," Love said. The researchers analyzed the genetic distinctions between the DNA of mutant wolves living within and outside of the 1,000-square-mile CEZ. The findings demonstrated that despite regular exposure to potentially fatal radiation dosages, the wolves seemed extraordinarily resistant to its effects. Numerous cancer-linked genes were found to have new mutations during analysis, indicating that they had developed as a defense against radiation. Experts hope this discovery may make finding human variations that lower cancer risk easier. ALSO READ: Chernobyl Vs. Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plants: Why the Latter is Safer and Doesn't Spread Too Much Radiation? Chernobyl Dogs Are Genetically Distinct Between 2017 and 2019, scientists made a follow-up visit to see how the remaining dog occupants were doing. Approximately 200 free-breeding dogs from various regions of Ukraine and other countries were surveyed for DNA. Most of them were residents of the facility, the neighboring train station, or about a nine-kilometer distance, mostly deserted Chernobyl City. There were more of them in Slavutych, and their radiation exposure was lower. Dogs differ genetically from other puppies, according to experts from the National Human Genome Research Institute and the University of South Carolina. They could be divided into three groups based on genetic similarity. Each of us is unique due to genetic variance, claims Your Genome. One's skin tone, hair color, and even facial structure are determined by variations in the DNA sequences found in each genome. This also holds for animals. The study's goal is to look at how radiation affected the DNA of the Chernobyl dog. A geneticist and study author, Dr. Elaine Ostrander, stated that the discovery would provide the foundation for addressing multigenerational survival in harsh conditions. At first, they believed the dogs might have mixed over time and become very similar. The outcomes took Ostrander and her colleagues by surprise. RELATED ARTICLE: What Happens if Russia Bombs Ukraine's Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant? Experts Explain Radioactive Risks Check out more news and information on Energy and Animals in Science Times. Did you know there are some financial metrics that can provide clues of a potential multi-bagger? Firstly, we'll want to see a proven return on capital employed (ROCE) that is increasing, and secondly, an expanding base of capital employed. Basically this means that a company has profitable initiatives that it can continue to reinvest in, which is a trait of a compounding machine. However, after investigating iFabric (TSE:IFA), we don't think it's current trends fit the mold of a multi-bagger. Return On Capital Employed (ROCE): What Is It? For those that aren't sure what ROCE is, it measures the amount of pre-tax profits a company can generate from the capital employed in its business. Analysts use this formula to calculate it for iFabric: Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) (Total Assets - Current Liabilities) 0.029 = CA$701k (CA$27m - CA$3.2m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to September 2023). So, iFabric has an ROCE of 2.9%. In absolute terms, that's a low return and it also under-performs the Luxury industry average of 11%. Check out our latest analysis for iFabric roce Historical performance is a great place to start when researching a stock so above you can see the gauge for iFabric's ROCE against it's prior returns. If you'd like to look at how iFabric has performed in the past in other metrics, you can view this free graph of past earnings, revenue and cash flow. What Does the ROCE Trend For iFabric Tell Us? On the surface, the trend of ROCE at iFabric doesn't inspire confidence. Around five years ago the returns on capital were 10%, but since then they've fallen to 2.9%. On the other hand, the company has been employing more capital without a corresponding improvement in sales in the last year, which could suggest these investments are longer term plays. It's worth keeping an eye on the company's earnings from here on to see if these investments do end up contributing to the bottom line. Story continues What We Can Learn From iFabric's ROCE Bringing it all together, while we're somewhat encouraged by iFabric's reinvestment in its own business, we're aware that returns are shrinking. And investors appear hesitant that the trends will pick up because the stock has fallen 22% in the last five years. Therefore based on the analysis done in this article, we don't think iFabric has the makings of a multi-bagger. On a separate note, we've found 1 warning sign for iFabric you'll probably want to know about. While iFabric may not currently earn the highest returns, we've compiled a list of companies that currently earn more than 25% return on equity. Check out this free list here. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Hayden Prillwitz Imane Hocini A rendering of Eco-Oasis of Ghardaia-Residential by Imane Hocini. Kyle Sutton Ian Wardowski From a greenhouse collaboration project with Dwelling Place of Grand Rapids to a bold vision to establish a blueprint for sustainable design in the middle of the Algerian Sahara desert, the work of four rising design talents is being recognized by the architecture community.During its 100anniversary celebration in November, the Grand Rapids Chapter of the American Institute of Architects honored students and recent graduates of Kendall College of Art & Design of Ferris State University.This group includes 2023 graduate Hayden Prillwitz, who was named the KCAD M.Arch program's 2023 AIA Medal for Academic Excellence recipient. Imane Hocini, a 2023 graduate, won her second Student Project Award for her proposed design, Eco-Oasis of Ghardaia, a vision of sustainable design in the middle of the Algerian Sahara desert. Current students Kyle Sutton and Ian Wardowski were named the 2023 AIA Grand Rapids Scholarship Recipients.Hayden Prillwitz, who completed the NAAB Master of Architecture (M.Arch) degree program, callsthe KCAD M.Arch program the most creatively freeing experience of her career. Through that program, she was able to dive into topics that were meaningful to her and share them through different modes of representation.It's incredibly hard to explain how much that program has shaped me and what my educational experience at KCAD means to me, but the fact that I miss it already and would do anything to go back probably says a lot, says Prillwitz. My most memorable projects from my time at Kendall are my master's thesis and a greenhouse collaboration project with Dwelling Place of Grand Rapids. Both of these projects were filled with creative freedom, and even post-grad, I'm working through more ideas for both and extrapolating on them further.Shes currently working as an architectural designer for Pure Architects in Grand Rapids while pursuing licensure. LEED and/or WELL certification is also on the horizon. Outside of her career, Prillwitzs goal is to stay creative in architecture-adjacent fields.I'm still expanding on past architectural projects to continue to be a student of the industry, she says. I want to make sure that I'm fulfilled with creative endeavors outside of the workplace and always striving to learn something new.Imane Hocinis student project, Eco-Oasis of Ghardaia, is described as a bold vision to establish a blueprint for sustainable design in the middle of the Algerian Sahara desert.The recognition was not just a validation of my efforts but a profoundly pleasing experience that resonated with my passion for sustainable design in challenging environments, Hocini says. This project was a personal exploration born from my cultural and educational background as an international student.The Eco-Oasis of Ghardaia envisions a sustainable urban design, challenging the reluctance toward desert living in Hocinis home country, Algeria, by addressing the critical need for climate resilience and proposing architectural solutions for hot and water-stressed regions.Looking ahead, I would love to see the Eco-Oasis of Ghardaia translate from vision to reality, fostering sustainable communities and setting new precedents for architectural identity in Algeria's southern desert, says Hocini, who hopes to contribute to the architectural landscape in the U.S. and in her homeland.This is the second year in a row she received the award for Student Design Project. In 2022, she was honored for her work on the Museum of Sustainable Concrete, a conceptual project.During her two years as a graduate student, Hocini says, her approach to architecture underwent a profound transformation.Engaging in critical thinking, discussions, and writing about architecture became integral to my academic journey, Hocini says. I discovered the power of theory in shaping effective practice and realized how a solid theoretical foundation insulates the discipline of architecture from being perceived as superficial or merely cosmetic.KCAD students Kyle Sutton and Ian Wardowski are the 2023 AIA Grand Rapids Scholarship Recipients.Sutton says the honor validates his decision to switch careers mid-pandemic. He was a civil engineer with Fleis & Vandenbrink before pivoting to architecture.I wanted to pursue architecture because I thought it better aligned with my skillset and I had a real passion for the subject, Sutton says.In his third and final year of KCAD's Master of Architecture program. Sutton was drawn to this program because of its NAAB accreditation, small studio size, and the more individualized attention from faculty. Grand Rapids historical support of art and furniture design was also a draw.The highlight of my time at Kendall has been working alongside and learning with my talented peers, said Sutton, a Grand Rapids native.Wardowski agrees.He earned his undergraduate degree in architecture and sustainability from Ferris State University, a program that, while enriching, wasn't accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board. Knowing that becoming a licensed architect in Michigan required a degree from an accredited school, Wardowski chose KCAD because of its affiliation with Ferris State.The unmatched student-to-professor ratio at KCAD provided ample opportunities for collaboration and guidance, influencing my decision, Wardowski says. My decision was also influenced by my growing affection for the west side of Michigan, particularly Grand Rapids, where I wanted to continue calling home.A highlight of Wardowskis academic journey was the chance to study abroad in London. It was his first venture to Europe.I was captivated by the exploration of the "placelessness" of the London Underground public transit system for my research project, Wardowski says.Following graduation, Wardowski is looking to work in the residential side of architecture with a focus on designing high-performance single-family homes.It is crucial for me to work in an environment that prioritizes collaboration and sustainability, particularly in the creation of impactful residential designs, Wardowski says.From furniture to shoes, from arts to education to even policy creation, design is everywhere you look. Designed in Michigan , a story series coming out of West Michigan, is devoted to sharing the expansive role design plays in Michigan's past, present and future. It is made possible through the support of Kendall College of Art and Design and Landscape Forms Key Insights Significantly high institutional ownership implies Canadian Natural Resources' stock price is sensitive to their trading actions 50% of the business is held by the top 10 shareholders Recent sales by insiders To get a sense of who is truly in control of Canadian Natural Resources Limited (TSE:CNQ), 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 84% ownership. That is, the group stands to benefit the most if the stock rises (or lose the most if there is a downturn). No shareholder likes losing money on their investments, especially institutional investors who saw their holdings drop 3.5% in value last week. However, the 7.8% one-year return to shareholders may have helped lessen their pain. We would assume however, that they would be on the lookout for weakness in the future. Let's delve deeper into each type of owner of Canadian Natural Resources, beginning with the chart below. See our latest analysis for Canadian Natural Resources What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Canadian Natural Resources? 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. Canadian Natural Resources already has institutions on the share registry. Indeed, they own a respectable stake in the company. This can indicate that the company has a certain degree of credibility in the investment community. However, it is best to be wary of relying on the supposed validation that comes with institutional investors. They too, get it wrong sometimes. If multiple institutions change their view on a stock at the same time, you could see the share price drop fast. It's therefore worth looking at Canadian Natural Resources' earnings history below. Of course, the future is what really matters. Story continues Since institutional investors own more than half the issued stock, the board will likely have to pay attention to their preferences. We note that hedge funds don't have a meaningful investment in Canadian Natural Resources. Looking at our data, we can see that the largest shareholder is Capital Research and Management Company with 23% of shares outstanding. BlackRock, Inc. is the second largest shareholder owning 5.1% of common stock, and FMR LLC holds about 4.0% of the company stock. On further inspection, we found that more than half the company's shares are owned by the top 10 shareholders, suggesting that the interests of the larger shareholders are balanced out to an extent by the smaller ones. While studying institutional ownership for a company can add value to your research, it is also a good practice to research analyst recommendations to get a deeper understand of a stock's expected performance. Quite a few analysts cover the stock, so you could look into forecast growth quite easily. Insider Ownership Of Canadian Natural Resources 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. 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. Shareholders would probably be interested to learn that insiders own shares in Canadian Natural Resources Limited. The insiders have a meaningful stake worth CA$2.0b. we sometimes take an interest in whether they have been buying or selling. General Public Ownership The general public, who are usually individual investors, hold a 14% stake in Canadian Natural Resources. While this group can't necessarily call the shots, it can certainly have a real influence on how the company is run. Next Steps: I find it very interesting to look at who exactly owns a company. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. For instance, we've identified 2 warning signs for Canadian Natural Resources that you should be aware of. If you would prefer discover what analysts are predicting in terms of future growth, do not miss this free report on analyst forecasts. NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Symphony Environmental Technologies updated the market on Friday on the judgement of the General Court of the European Union, delivered on 31 January, around an EU directive prohibiting oxo-degradable products that do not properly biodegrade. The AIM-traded firm said the court concluded that the defendants had not exceeded discretion limits, leading to Symphony not being awarded compensation. It said the judgement did not assess the effectiveness of Symphony's d2w technologies, nor did it consider subsequent studies supporting the technology's efficacy or expert evidence regarding the formation of microplastics. Symphony said its stance, supported by legal counsel, was that d2w should not fall under the EU prohibition. Despite the legal proceedings, the impact on Symphony's business was said to be minimal, as d2w technology had not been extensively used in the EU in recent years. The directors attributed the limited use of d2w in the EU to confusion stemming from the wording of the EU directive, which failed to distinguish between oxo-degradable plastic and the oxo-biodegradable technology employed by d2w. Symphony said its inability to amend the directive prompted the pursuit of compensation. The court's reference to the CEN definition TR15351, which distinguishes between oxo-degradable and oxo-biodegradable plastics, supported Symphony's position, the board asserted. We firmly believe that we were right to challenge this amendment to the draft directive, and maintain that we should have received compensation for the confusion caused, said chief executive officer Michael Laurier. We will continue our communications programme to explain the value of d2w biodegradable technology to protect the environment around the world from persistent plastic litter. Symphony is heavily invested in a number of exciting territories around the world for our d2w and d2p technologies, and whilst it is frustrating that this judgement makes it more challenging to sell d2w in the EU, the group has a good pipeline of global opportunities for d2w, and we remain confident of communicating further progress in the coming months. At 1146 GMT, shares in Symphony Environmental Technologies were up 5.08% at 3.42p. Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com. Supermarket chain plans to return 1bn to shareholders UK supermarket giant Tesco has sold its most of its retail banking business to Barclays for 600m, the two companies said on Friday. The deal will see Tesco sell its existing banking operations in credit cards, loans and savings, removing 7.7bn of capital-intensive assets and 6.7bn of liabilities from its balance sheet. About 2,800 Tesco workers will transfer to Barclays. Tesco said it expected to rake in a further 100m after the settlement of regulatory capital amounts and transaction costs. Combined with the 250m special dividend paid by Tesco Bank last August, this is expected to result in a total of around 1bn, the majority of which will be returned to shareholders in the form of an incremental share buyback. The duo also agreed a 10-year partnership to market and distribute credit cards, unsecured personal loans and deposits using the Tesco brand, as well as explore other opportunities to offer financial services to Tesco customers. Tesco will keep insurance, ATM, travel money and gift card operations. Combined, the pro forma annual adjusted operating profit from the partnership and retained activities is anticipated to be 80m - 100m - more than half of the current year expected profits from Tesco Bank. Reporting by Frank Prenesti for Sharecast.com London stocks had nudged higher by midday on Friday, with Convatec in the lead after solid results from a Danish peer. The FTSE 100 was up just 0.1% at 7,603.50. Russ Mould, investment director at AJ Bell, said: "After a barrage of company announcements this week, its no wonder that markets have paused for breath on Friday. "Investors have had so much to take in from a wealth of big names that theyre exhausted by the all the numbers." In equity markets, medical device maker Convatec was the top performer on the FTSE 100 after well-received interim results from Danish peer Coloplast. Supermarket giant Tesco gained after agreeing to sell its retail banking business to Barclays for 600m. The duo also unveiled a 10-year partnership to market and distribute credit cards, unsecured personal loans and deposits using the Tesco brand, as well as explore other opportunities to offer financial services to Tesco customers. Tesco said it expected to rake in a further 100m after the settlement of certain regulatory capital amounts and transaction costs. Combined with the previously announced special dividend of 250m paid by Tesco Bank last August, this is expected to result in total cash received of around 1bn, the majority of which will be returned to shareholders in the form of an incremental share buyback. BAE Systems edged up after Kazakhstan-based carrier Air Astana - in which it has a 49% stake - priced its IPO at $9.50 per share, giving it a valuation of $847m. On the downside, Legal & General was lower as Citi cut its 2023 earnings per share estimates and opened a 30-day negative catalyst watch on the shares ahead of full-year results on 6 March. Citi said it expects material EPS downgrades into results "and although this is primarily investment variance driven, this highlights the opacity of Legal & General Capital (LGC) and comes against a backdrop of L&G being the best performing UK life insurer over the past three months and what we see as limited upside capital return surprise potential". Polymers group Victrex fell as it announced a "soft start" in its first quarter as a result of continued end-market weakness and tough comparatives with the prior year, with group revenues falling by over a fifth. Bellway nudged lower as it said half-year housing revenue fell to more than 1.25bn from 1.80bn a year earlier, in line with the boards expectations. Market Movers FTSE 100 (UKX) 7,603.50 0.11% FTSE 250 (MCX) 19,112.80 0.05% techMARK (TASX) 4,402.63 0.20% FTSE 100 - Risers Convatec Group (CTEC) 239.60p 2.13% Sage Group (SGE) 1,195.00p 1.92% Entain (ENT) 1,004.00p 1.76% Smith (DS) (SMDS) 314.00p 1.75% BP (BP.) 483.80p 1.59% 3i Group (III) 2,416.00p 1.43% Hikma Pharmaceuticals (HIK) 1,957.50p 1.42% Relx plc (REL) 3,348.00p 1.42% Experian (EXPN) 3,384.00p 1.38% Coca-Cola HBC AG (CDI) (CCH) 2,207.00p 1.38% FTSE 100 - Fallers Glencore (GLEN) 388.00p -2.22% British American Tobacco (BATS) 2,435.00p -1.97% Legal & General Group (LGEN) 237.20p -1.70% Land Securities Group (LAND) 640.20p -1.54% Fresnillo (FRES) 486.50p -1.36% Burberry Group (BRBY) 1,278.50p -1.35% Croda International (CRDA) 4,958.00p -1.27% Auto Trader Group (AUTO) 712.00p -1.17% Prudential (PRU) 810.00p -1.00% HSBC Holdings (HSBA) 611.60p -0.99% FTSE 250 - Risers Watches of Switzerland Group (WOSG) 389.60p 4.62% IG Group Holdings (IGG) 687.50p 2.23% Indivior (INDV) 1,402.00p 2.19% TBC Bank Group (TBCG) 2,925.00p 2.09% Tullow Oil (TLW) 30.66p 2.06% Future (FUTR) 699.50p 2.04% Asia Dragon Trust (DGN) 358.00p 1.99% TI Fluid Systems (TIFS) 150.00p 1.90% Aston Martin Lagonda Global Holdings (AML) 175.10p 1.80% Me Group International (MEGP) 137.00p 1.78% FTSE 250 - Fallers Just Group (JUST) 81.50p -3.89% PZ Cussons (PZC) 97.30p -3.28% Drax Group (DRX) 442.10p -1.84% Dr. Martens (DOCS) 85.40p -1.78% Grainger (GRI) 259.20p -1.74% Hill and Smith (HILS) 1,860.00p -1.59% RHI Magnesita N.V. (DI) (RHIM) 3,496.00p -1.52% Hochschild Mining (HOC) 92.45p -1.44% Helios Towers (HTWS) 75.95p -1.43% Victrex plc (VCT) 1,325.00p -1.41% The former chief executive of Barclays Jes Staley allegedly stayed in contact with Jeffrey Epstein long after joining the UK bank, according to legal documents that reportedly contradict claims he cut ties with the convicted child sex offender and disgraced financier in 2015. Documents from a now-settled lawsuit, seen by Bloomberg News, allegedly suggest that the two men used an unnamed third person, who acted as an intermediary for messages between Staley and Epstein, to stay in contact after Staley took over as chief executive of Barclays in December 2015. Guardian A leading business lobby group has urged Jeremy Hunt to resist calls for large-scale tax cuts in his budget next month, saying the government needs to avoid short-termism and devote spending to projects that boost the economy. Adding its voice to a growing clamour for green investment, the Confederation of British Industry said pre-election giveaways at the budget should be kept to a minimum to allow for a surge in spending to achieve net zero. Guardian Britains biggest offshore wind farm is facing a year-long delay to its completion because of a chronic shortage of construction ships. The Dogger Bank site has suffered from significant disruption because of bad weather, storms and a lack of vessels able to build it according to its developer, the power company SSE. Telegraph Britains working-age benefits bill will hit 100bn for the first time this year amid a surge in disability claims since lockdown. The cost of welfare payments including universal credit, housing subsidies and disability benefit is expected to jump by almost 30pc in real terms to 130bn by the end of the decade, according to forecasts published by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). Telegraph Mexico has overtaken China as the biggest exporter to America for the first time in 20 years as geopolitics and friend-shoring redraw global trade patterns. Mexico exported $475 billion of goods to the US in 2023, a 5 per cent increase on the year, while the value of Chinese exports fell 20 per cent to $427 billion, according to the US Department of Commerce. The Times The billionaire family behind Primark and Fortnum & Mason has paid itself 36.9 million in dividend payments after profits across its portfolio grew last year. Wittington Investments, the Weston familys investment vehicle, handed out 128 million in dividends last year, beating the previous payout of 104 million. The Times FILE PHOTO: FILE PHOTO: An Iraqi man walks at the headquarters of the Central Bank of Iraq in Baghdad By Timour Azhari BAGHDAD (Reuters) - The Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) has revoked the operating licence of Iran's largest bank, Bank Melli Iran, citing international sanctions and the bank's limited operations in Iraq, a CBI document verified by two CBI officials shows. Bank Melli Iran did not immediately respond on Thursday to a Reuters request for comment on the contents of the document, which was dated Jan. 31, 2024. "In light of the losses accrued by your branch in Iraq and its limited activities and its inability to implement or expand banking activities and ... its inclusion in international sanctions, it is decided to cancel your license," the document said. The U.S. Treasury sanctioned Bank Melli Iran in 2018, alleging it was being used by Iran's Revolutionary Guards "to dispense funds to Iraqi Shia militant groups, and Bank Melli's presence in Iraq was part of this scheme." A rare ally of both the United States and Iran with more than $100 billion in reserves held in the U.S., Iraq relies heavily on Washington's goodwill to ensure that its access to oil revenues and finances are not blocked. Despite being brought to power in October 2022 mainly by Iraqi Shi'ite Muslim parties and armed groups with close ties to Iran, Iraq's government has cooperated closely with Washington on measures aimed at limiting Tehran's financial activities in Iraq and modernising the financial system. Iraq recently banned eight local commercial banks from engaging in U.S. dollar transactions, taking action to reduce fraud, money laundering and other illegal uses of the U.S. currency, in a move welcomed by the U.S. Treasury. In July 2023, it banned 14 banks from conducting dollar transactions as part of a wider crackdown on dollar smuggling to Iran via the Iraqi banking system after a request from Washington, according to Iraqi and U.S. officials. (Reporting by Timour Azhari; Editing by Alexander Smith) Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das has underscored the significance of financial integrity and rule adherence within the fintech sector, sending a clear message to businesses that compliance is non-negotiable. This statement follows the recent decision by the central bank to suspend Paytm Payments Bank's business operations from February 29, citing persistent rule violations spanning seven years. In response to concerns raised by entrepreneurs, including PB Fintech founder Ashish Dahiya and Bharat Matrimony's M Janakiraman, seeking a review of actions against Paytm, Governor Das emphasized that the RBI's actions prioritize systemic stability and safeguarding the interests of depositors and customers. He stated that these fundamental aspects cannot be compromised for the long-term success of any entity. The controversy surrounding Paytm Payments Bank's regulatory challenges prompts a broader discussion about governance and compliance standards within the fintech industry. The RBI's decision to bar the bank from onboarding customers in 2022, followed by the recent business suspension, raises questions about the bank's adherence to regulatory guidelines. Governor Das addressed concerns about the negative signals sent to entrepreneurs by asserting that the RBI remains supportive of innovation and technology in the financial sector. However, he reiterated that regulatory actions are proportional to the gravity of the situation. The Paytm Payments Bank episode serves as a reminder to the fintech ecosystem that the RBI, as a well-established regulator, prioritizes adherence to its rules. While regulatory processes may seem sudden, the central bank's actions are rooted in maintaining financial stability and ensuring the credibility of the financial system. This stance aligns with the RBI's historical commitment to upholding regulatory standards, even in the face of challenges in the broader financial landscape. PITTSTOWN, N.Y. Ten cars of a cargo train carrying plastic pellets and cooking oil derailed in upstate New York, with two ending up in a river, authorities said. The cars, part of a 94-car train operated by Berkshire & Eastern Railroad, derailed about 10:15 p.m. Wednesday in Rensselaer County, in the village of Valley Falls. No injuries were reported and no hazardous materials were involved, Tom Ciuba, a spokesperson for the railroad, said early Thursday. In this image provided by New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, train cars lie on their sides after a train derailed, Wednesday evening, Feb. 7, 2024, in Valley Falls, N.Y. Authorities say 10 cars of a 94-car cargo train carrying plastic pellets and cooking oil, derailed in upstate New York, with two ending up in a river. (Basil Seggos/ New York State Department of Environmental Conservation via AP)AP Two of the railcars have fallen into the Hoosic River with one leaking a small amount of cooking oil and another leaking a small amount of plastic resin, he said in an email. Photos from the scene showed cars off the tracks and lying on their sides along a narrow embankment alongside the river. Contractors are on site to fully respond to the incident, and rerailing of the cars should take several hours, Ciuba said. A thorough investigation into the cause is also underway. Part of a state route in the area was closed, county authorities said. New York environmental commissioner Basil Seggos said on social media from the scene early Thursday that the situation had been stabilized and efforts had shifted to recovery of the derailed cars, including two he described as teetering. Norfolk Southern locomotives powered the train, but that company was otherwise not involved, their spokesman said. Railroads routinely share locomotives under various arrangements. The accident was the regions second derailment in six months. About 17 cars of a CSX freight train derailed in nearby Amsterdam, northwest of Albany, in August, disrupting Amtrak service and prompting road closures. Authorities said the majority of the cars that derailed were empty oil tankers. On Wednesday, the locomotive of a Great Western Railway cargo train derailed in northern Colorado, spilling hundreds of gallons of diesel. The fuel did not get into any waterways, fire officials said. In the wake of a fiery derailment in East Palestine, Ohio a year ago, the major freight railroads announced a number of steps to improve safety, but reforms have stalled in Congress. The transformative power of AI (Artificial Intelligence) will revolutionise for travel and tourism sector, bringing in unparalleled customer experiences, says a new report from World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and Microsoft. The first in a series of AI reports, announced during the global tourism bodys event at Fitur and in collaboration with WTTCs Industry Partner, Microsoft, is poised to redefine travel and tourism standards and call on the sector for greater integration of such technologies. Travel & Tourism businesses are urged to embrace AI as a strategic priority, investing heavily in talent to foster collaboration between humans and AI. As the global leader in travel and tourism, WTTC is committed to driving innovation and supporting the sector to embrace AI and other cutting-edge technologies. To promote sustainability and excellent customer experiences, WTTC acknowledges the crucial importance of AI in revolutionising the sector, it said. Throughout the travellers journey, WTTC believes AI can play a pivotal role in delivering a tailored and enhanced experience now and in the future. This technology can empower personalised recommendations and marketing strategies by analysing traveller data, optimising pricing strategies through real-time adjustments, and offering instant responses and fine-tuned interactions via sophisticated AI powered chatbots, the report says. The report also highlights AI's capabilities extend to predicting future demand patterns, efficiently allocating resources, and providing valuable insights for governments and travel and tourism stakeholders. This contribution can be pivotal in promoting sustainability with efficient resource management by monitoring and minimising environmental impacts, ensuring a more responsible and sustainable sector, it says. Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: "As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of Travel & Tourism, AI emerges as a catalyst for positive change. The transformative capabilities highlighted in this report demonstrate that AI is not just a technological advancement, it is a strategic tool that can personalise the customer experience, drive sustainable improvements, and create real time pricing models. Julie Shainock, Microsoft Managing Director Travel, Transport & Logistics, said: "Using Microsoft's Azure OpenAI Models across the travel sector allows greater productivity for companies and drive a more personalised consumer experience. For travellers, the ability to drive more inspiration and personalized offers at booking to providing tools to consumers to proactively assist them while in destination to anticipate their needs with relevant information to improve their journey. For travel companies, GenAI is there to increase productivity, automate the predictable, and allow our human centric approach to the high value moments in travel to shine more. Despite the increasing examples of AI applications in Travel & Tourism, the report reveals the sector lags other consumer-facing industries in AI adoption. AI's surge across various sectors last year is now a relevant force, and the Travel & Tourism sector must act now to leverage its impact. Challenges that must be overcome by Travel & Tourism businesses include a shortage of AI-skilled workers, limited AI infrastructure, and the absence of a formal AI strategy in many business plans. Amidst concerns about AI's impact on jobs, the report addresses the potential for job creation, recognising that although AI will be disruptive, it will in turn generate new opportunities. In the quest for sustainable AI practices within the Travel & Tourism sector, responsible data management emerges as a crucial strategy, it says. Implementing measures such as data minimisation, efficient storage, and responsible data disposal, becomes pivotal for organisations seeking to minimise their carbon emissions when using new digital technologies, and reduce their AI environmental footprint significantly. The report explores AI applications in society and business, emphasising the need for safe and responsible AI system design in Travel & Tourism, signifying a milestone in the sector's commitment to innovation and sustainability, and showcasing AI's potential to shape a bright future for Travel & Tourism. - TradeArabia News Service Tony Cho stands on Jan. 17 on North Liberty Street in front of two of the buildings that compose the Phoenix Arts District. Cho was an early investor in Miami's Wynwood Art District and is now investing in Jacksonville's Phoenix Arts and Innovation District, which is in the early phase of being redeveloped and incorporated with the Emerald Trail project. Jacksonville artists will soon have new community spaces in North Jacksonville as work is underway for Jacksonvilles Phoenix Arts and Innovation District. When its completed, the district will comprise 10 properties across 8.3 acres, including 120,000 square feet of warehouse spaces, in the North Springfield neighborhood. The first phase of construction began about a month ago on the properties at 2320 and 2336 N. Liberty streets. This work is funded through a $7 million loan from Local Initiatives Support Corp. A couple things were attractive about this project, said Dr. Irvin Cohen, executive director for LISC Jacksonville. Artist renderings of what Phoenix Art & Innovation District could look like when it is fully completed. The location was very appealing, and LISC has been involved in the redevelopment of Springfield since we came to town almost 25 years ago, he said. This was really in line with that goal. Cohen said the other investment opportunities for this project mean LISC could put as much as an additional $3 million into the district. Tony Cho, CEO and founder of the Future of Cities, the development company for this project said the first phase of the project should be completed by the summer. I feel like Jacksonville is on the cusp of really emerging as a new, really interesting metro area with culture, Cho said. Its at a really interesting moment, and were excited to be part of the rise of Jacksonville. What is Phoenix Arts and Innovation District? In 2016, Christy Frazier, a Jacksonville artist and entrepreneur, founded the original Phoenix Arts District with plans to convert a set of warehouses into a school for artists and studio spaces. Now, work on that vision is moving forward. Street art covers the facades of the two buildings that make up the Phoenix Arts District in Jacksonville's Springfield neighborhood. The district will include dining options, artists studios, a farmers market and a flea market to celebrate local culture, art and talent, Cho said. The artists in the district are local and regional artists, not international ones as is the case for some South Florida arts districts. Wynwood Miami is a project that has become synonymous with artists [I think] the same is happening with Phoenix, he said. The thing that excites me most about this project is that this is a project for the community, by the community and from the community. We didnt create the name of the project. It was pre-existing. Story continues Artist renderings of what Phoenix Art & Innovation District could look like when it is fully completed. The first two buildings will have 36,000 square feet, Cho said. Emerald Station, which broke ground about a month ago, will have coworking space, office space and event space. We already have eight artists who have studio space with us that weve been giving them free of charge, and we hope to provide more artists studio spaces, he said. The next building, The Liberty Building, will have about 18,000 square feet, and a portion of it has been leased already to Naked Kitchen. Colliers Urban Division is managing the pre-leasing of retail, gallery and food and beverage spaces, according to a news release. When will the district be done? Despite the expectation for the first buildings to be completely leased by the end of the year, the total time estimate for the neighborhoods completion is about 10 years. To create a neighborhood takes a very long time, he said. Its ever-evolving and doesnt have a definitive end date because its market-dependent. All of the buildings that already exist should be completed by the end of 2025, and from then its expected that a new building should open about every two years. There are six total development sites in the district. Prior to the last couple years, there wasnt much focus on downtown, Cho said. Jacksonville is going through a revitalization To me, its a continuation of a reinvention of Jacksonville. The renovation of the existing buildings will cost about $14 million, Cho said. Our aspiration is to be the first net-zero district in Florida, and maybe even the country, Cho said. Solar investment itself in this project is likely over $1 million. A detail of one of the street art-covered buildings that make up the Phoenix Arts District in Jacksonville's Springfield neighborhood. These types of projects require public support and incentives, he said, as well as charitable efforts, like those from Friends of Phoenix and LISC. The district also is not signing national tenants, like Starbucks or Walmart, which means it can take a little longer to see a return on investment with those smaller, local businesses compared to the long-term leases larger corporations tend to be able to afford upfront. Why is Phoenix Arts District in Springfield? The neighborhood was very historically rich and interesting with the homes and their front porches, he said. It was a neighborhood yearning for revitalization and reimagination to elevate an existing community. Cho said he started visiting Jacksonville in 2018 when he was looking for a new city with a market for investment. After checking out Main Street and Springfield and connecting with SPAR, he went to the Phoenix area. Street art covers the facades of the two buildings that make up the Phoenix Arts District in Jacksonville's Springfield neighborhood. When I got there, it felt like the early days in Wynwood and Little Haiti, he said. I really loved the community there and the people I started to meet. Cohen said this project is personal for him as someone who grew up in East Jacksonville and lives in Springfield. Im looking forward to the ability to have a space that will become a destination for artists in our city, he said. Im also excited by the available food options. My hope is that it can act as a catalyst for Springfield to attract a diverse population and make it a place where people want to live and help ancillary neighborhoods, like Eastside and Brentwood. Cho said integrating art, community [and] sustainability into everything is a hallmark of his projects. Tony Cho on North Liberty Street smiles Jan. 17 in front of two of the buildings that compose the Phoenix Arts District. Cho was an early investor in Miami's Wynwood Art District and is now investing in Jacksonville's Phoenix Arts and Innovation District, which is in the early phase of being redeveloped and incorporated with the Emerald Trail project. Phoenix and Jacksonville benefit from years of learning from mistakes and what went right and what went wrong and how to improve upon it, he said. [And] to steward it in an ethical and responsible way thats not just focused on financial return but is focused on people, planet, profit and purpose. Cohen said, after seeing some of Chos work in South Florida, he is excited to unlock the potential of this project, especially for the communities that havent seen development like this for generations. Cho said the district has had positive community reactions to the upcoming plans, including about 1,200 people in attendance for its first holiday market. In my 23 years in real estate and development, its really been a pleasure to do business in Jacksonville, Cho said. The community has been really warm and welcoming to our ideas, and even other developers have offered to help us in any way possible. This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Arts, dining and more planned for community development project in Springfield STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A new program will help find permanent homes for 1,500 New Yorkers currently living in the citys shelter system. On Thursday, Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Social Services (DSS) Commissioner Molly Wasow Park launched the Affordable Housing Services (AHS) initiative, which will create affordable homes for homeless New Yorkers with City Fighting Homelessness and Eviction Prevention Supplement (CityFHEPS) vouchers. Time and time again, our administration has taken action to help New Yorkers in our shelter system move into permanent affordable homes, and our strategies have proven effective, said Adams. As we act now to connect New Yorkers to the homes they need, we will continue to advance our historic City of Yes proposal to build housing in every neighborhood and advocate for Albany to truly meet the need. The city will partner with nonprofit organizations to purchase or lease affordable housing sites to help house the more than 10,000 households with CityFHEPS vouchers currently in the citys shelter system. Coinciding with the programs launch, Adams issued an emergency declaration that will allow DSS to fast-track the creation of the first 1,000 affordable housing units by reducing the time needed to enter contracts with the participating nonprofits. These first 1,000 units will use a long-term leasing model and existing housing stock to allow for expedited move-ins, while the remaining 500 units will be purchased by nonprofits. The Affordable Housing Services initiative is an important avenue for accelerating pathways to housing for shelter residents, said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. This effort builds on the increases in permanent housing placements this administration has already facilitated, and serves as an example of our ongoing commitment to secure affordable housing for New Yorkers. The program is the latest in a long line of initiatives to help house New York Citys homeless population, with the CityFHEPS vouchers being used to connect more New Yorkers to permanent housing in Fiscal Year 2023 than any other year since they were introduced. The Adams administration has expanded eligibility for CityFHEPS vouchers, eliminated the 90-day length-of-stay requirement for New Yorkers living in shelters to obtain the vouchers, expanded eligible uses for the vouchers to other parts of New York State and streamlined the application process through the DSS benefits portal. Throughout this administration, we have reaffirmed that every New Yorker deserves a permanent home, and we continue to take consistent, innovative steps to make that aim a reality, said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. Todays announcement of the Affordable Housing Services initiative will help 1,500 individuals and families transition more quickly from shelter to stable housing and will give nonprofit providers new tools to secure leases to further assist their clients as they transition from shelter to housing. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. As Richmond University Medical Center marks the first anniversary of its new state-of-the-art Emergency Department, Daniel Messina, president and CEO of the West Brighton hospital, reflects on the 35,000-square-foot facility and looks toward the future with optimism and confidence. Messina called the project, A beacon to all of Staten Island that the most advanced emergency care, latest evidence-based medicine, and cutting-edge technology is here, not away from Staten Island, but here, right in their neighborhood. Richmond University Medical Center welcomed its first patients to the Emergency Department on Friday Jan. 20, 2023. More than 52,000 have been treated since. ABOUT THE NEW STATE OF THE ART SPACE The extensive renovation was part of a $250-million overhaul of the West Brighton medical centers facilities that featured expanded trauma and triage areas and dedicated units for pediatrics, behavioral health, cardiac/stroke emergencies and sexual assault victims. The new ED, more than twice the size of the former space and the namesake of former Borough President James P. Molinaro, has increased ambulance bays and a larger patient drop-off area at its front entrance. Former Borough President James Molinaro, accompanied by Joan Cusack, at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Richmond University Medical Center's new Emergency Department, in his name.(Staten Island Advance/Jan Somma-Hammel)RUMC Messina noted that almost the entire space is named after community supporters. The trauma and Resuscitation Unit is named after Messinas parents, Salvatore and Rose Messina, and other areas named for tireless advocates whove championed RUMC causes Kate Rooney, Ron Purpora, Bobby Urs and Jay Chazanoff. In a world of big corporate health care and big mega systems, this hospital, thanks to a very committed board and medical staff, is staying as competitive as ever in a sea of big academic large system players, Messina said. Richmond University Medical Center's Emergency Department under construction. (Erik Bascome, Staten Island Advance)RUMC Rosemarie Stazzone, senior vice president and chief nursing officer, noted that the health care center spent this past year expanding its clinical education for the critical care and trauma needs of their patients. Our team of certified providers are well trained to meet any emergency or challenge encountered. And we are grateful to continue our tradition of excellent are for the community of Staten Island. BIGGER AND BETTER THINGS TO COME Messina points out that while the Emergency Department hit the one-year anniversary, there will be a Phase 2. The Richmond University Medical Center Emergency Department. (Staten Island Advance/Jan Somma-Hammel)RUMC On tap: Repurposing and utilizing the old space to support the increased needs of the new ED. Things like paramedic lounges, nurse lounges, locker rooms, showers, shower facilities, the replacement of critical diagnostic equipment, new high speed cat scans, the trauma room, as well as other space for future phases. And we reserved space for a newly dedicated Observation Unit that is a very exciting for the hospital, he added. Throughout the new ED, patients receive care from physicians and medical personnel assigned to RUMC and the Mount Sinai Health System. It took vision, guts, and determination to embark on the construction of a new $100 million ER facility during a global pandemic, said Timothy C. Harrison, chairman of the board of trustees. So, too, it took skill, close attention to detail and perseverant management to bring this complicated project to successful realization. Achieved one year ago, realization has yielded more success than any one of us could have imagined with the possible exception of Jim Molinaro, our former borough president, who inspired this project in the first place, and whose leadership made it possible. RUMCs emergency facilities now serve more patients including Level One trauma patients with better outcomes, than ever before, he added. Gratitude is broadly due to the tireless physicians, nurses and staff who devote their lives to treating our patients, to our friends at Mount Sinai, who have partnered with us on the ER, and who inspire us every day with their intelligence and their relentless pursuit of quality, to our executive leaders, who skillfully guide RUMCs day-to-day operations, including our new ER, to the members of the RUMC Foundation board and board of trustees, for their tireless help and guidance, and to our donors and our elected officials, for vital project support, Harrison continued. Dr. Johnathon LeBaron, chair of Emergency Medicine, commented: The new Emergency Department affords patients a true sense of dignity. Being examined and treated is a lot for people to go through. They now have a private space of their own that is exceedingly comfortable and a staff that has garnered pride in an area thats bright and new. Its a game changer having this additional space where everything is right at the patients bed side, said Jean Gordon, assistant vice president, Emergency Services. Its bright, new and the waiting area is beautiful. We have security embedded within the department with mobile communication. And our Mount Sinai partnership has only gotten stronger making a positive difference. The trauma area is three times the size than it was before. Mount Sinai has been a great partner in working collaboratively with us to improve over all patient care, Dr. LeBaron added. We have geriatric specialists on board. We have more room to focus on challenges for geriatric and pediatric patients as well. THE WELFARE OF PATIENTS AND STAFFERS IN MIND The ED is right up there with the best academic medical center, Messina said. Mount Sinai staffs this ED. We have the experienced staff to man this ED. And we work closely in partnership with Mount Sinai. People feel they need to go into the city, We are bringing a little of the city into Staten Island. Dr. Johnathon LeBaron is responsible for bringing this all together. Dr. Brendan Carr, chief executive officer of the Mount Sinai Health System, a highly respected national figure in the emergency medical field, worked very closely on the design together with the RUMC team and the Mount Sinai team. For the past year the staff in our new Emergency Department have saved lives and taken care of people during life-changing events, often unexpected and unplanned, Alex Lutz, vice president, public relations and marketing said. It is during those moments that you want to know you or your loved one are getting the very best care from the very best people. . NEW YORK A prosecutor in Manhattan announced six additional indictments of men allegedly involved in a brawl with police officers in Times Square, but he said investigators were still working to identify several suspects and their exact role in the frenzy. The district attorney, Alvin Bragg, has faced growing pressure and political backlash following the release of video showing several migrants kicking police officers on a sidewalk and prying them off a man that they were trying to arrest. Mayor Eric Adams, left, listens as District Attorney Alvin Bragg, right, speaks during a press conference, where several charges for migrants involved in a Times Square brawl with police, Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Bebeto Matthews)AP In a news conference Thursday, Bragg said his office had secured grand jury indictments for a total of seven suspects in the heinous attack, including two people who have not yet been arrested. At the same time, he acknowledged that some of the men initially charged with assaulting police in the Jan. 27 incident had played only a minor role in the melee. We have to ensure we identify and charge those individuals who actually committed criminal acts in this matter, Bragg said. The only thing worse than failing to bring perpetrators to justice would be to ensnare innocent people in the criminal justice system. One person previously charged with assaulting police officers, 21-year-old Wilson Juarez, is now believed to have watched the brawl from a distance without participating. He has since been charged with tampering with physical evidence, prosecutors said, because he allegedly traded his jacket with a man who fled police following the confrontation. Another person widely reported to have participated in the beating, Kelvin Servita Arocha, 19, did not physically touch either of the officers, but he allegedly kicked a police radio making him an accessory to the assault, according to Bragg. A third person who earned headlines for flipping off cameras following his arraignment has yet to be indicted by a grand jury, a spokesperson for the District Attorneys office said, because prosecutors were still working to confirm whether he actually participated in the assault. Police said there were at least five additional suspects they were looking to speak with based on an investigation that included a review of body-camera footage. The man allegedly at the center of the conflict, Yohenry Brito, 24, was indicted on charges including two counts of assault by a grand jury on Tuesday and is being held on Rikers Island. This image taken from video provided by the New York City Police Department shows police officers confronting a group near New York City's Times Square, Jan. 27, 2024, bringing a man in a bright yellow coat down to the sidewalk and the chaotic scene that unfolds as at least half a dozen bystanders are seen kicking at the officers, then trying to pry them off the man. (New York City Police Department via AP)New York City Police Department via AP According to NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny, the altercation began after a pair of police officers ordered a group of men to disperse from a sidewalk in front of a midtown Manhattan shelter. After Brito got confrontational with the officers, police attempted to arrest him, leading to the scuffle, Kenny said. New York City Mayor Eric Adams has linked the incident to what he described Thursday as an apparent crime wave driven by the citys migrant population. He has said that only a small minority of new arrivals were participating in illegal behavior, but he has faced allegations of weaponizing the Times Square incident for political gain. The mayor has used this awful incident to score cheap political points at a moment when his approval ratings are really low, said Ana Maria Archila, co-director of the New York Working Families Party. He has vilified immigrants and created a political environment that enables vigilante violence. Police and city officials have not provided data to back up the claim of a crime wave. Most categories of crime are down since a surge of migrant arrivals began 18 months ago. Earlier this week, members of the Guardian Angels were seen roughing up a man in Times Square during a live television interview on Fox News. The groups founder, Curtis Sliwa, falsely identified the man as a migrant. On Thursday, Bragg said his office was investigating what he described as the disturbing incident. The worlds oldest forest is in New York Citys backyard. The site, located in Cairo, New York, features root impressions that are 385 million years old, according to Binghamton University. The site sits just east of the famous Gilboa fossil forest in Schoharie County, which was originally hailed as the worlds oldest forest in the 1920s. The forest dates back to the Middle Devonian period, according to Binghamton, a time in which modern day New York was located in the southern hemisphere of the world and had a semi-arid climate; most of the land was barren. Additionally, the atmosphere also had three to five times the level of carbon dioxide. Although interpretations of forests during this period resemble something of a rainforest, the ancient forest of Cairo rested along an abandoned river-channel and low spot that filled seasonally with water, according to Binghamton University. It had a variety of trees, from the prehistoric palm tree-like family of Eospermatopteris, to the conifer-like family of Archaeopteris, to potentially even a lycopsid tree, which is related to todays club moss. According to the publication Science, when trees evolved from these roots, they pulled carbon dioxide from the air and locked it away, drastically shifting the planets climate, eventually developing into the atmosphere we know today. The site at Cairo has been shielded from the public to protect it from fossil hunters, according to Binghamton. Support the Peninsulas only locally-owned newspaper. Subscribe! Subscribing annually brings you big savings. We also offer monthly and weekly subscriptions. Premium Subscription As low as $8.25 per month Premium Includes: Access to the Daily Journals e-Edition: a digital replica of our daily newspaper including crossword puzzles, games, comics, classifieds and ads. The ability to download a digital replica of the Daily Journal for offline reading. The ability to clip & download articles or images to share with others. Access to the last 90 days of e-Editions with search, downloading and clipping options. Unlimited access to our award-winning online content Commenting access on all stories as a valued member of the DJ community Semafor Signals Insights from JETRO, Kenyans, and the China Global South Project The News Kenya secured more than $2 billion in financial commitments from Japanese investors during President William Rutos visit to Tokyo this week, officials said. Most of the investments will fund infrastructure and energy projects across the country, turning it away from Chinese investment that has historically helped fund these sectors. Chinas struggling economy has dried up its financing in Kenya in recent years, and Nairobi is struggling to repay the debt Beijing has left behind. SIGNALS Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories. Japan sees Kenya as EV production hub Sources: JETRO, African Business Partners, Zawya With Kenya heavily reliant on expensive oil imports, electric vehicles are becoming a more popular option in the country. The total number of EVs in the country remains small, according to the Japan External Trade Organisation , but the last two years have seen several startups focusing on electric bus production that could address the problem of one of its most popular, yet highly polluting forms of public transportation private minibuses. Kenya, like other African governments, is also hoping to replace the high number of used vehicles in the country with new, locally-produced cars, according to African Business Partners, a Japanese advisory firm. Japans deal with Ruto devotes $470 million to EV production and geothermal initiatives, according to Zawya finance news, with Toyota investing another $5 million into vehicle manufacturing. Chinese investment is devaluing Kenyas currency Sources: Kenyans, Fitch Ratings, China Global South Project Chinese investment has helped Kenyas economy grow, but it has not translated to local cash flow, one economist told the Kenyans newspaper. Money never arrives in Kenya, he said, because both the financier and contractor for infrastructure projects are Chinese, so the investment never directly involves local businesses. Still, Kenya ultimately must pay the loan after the maturity period, which requires Nairobi to buy more dollars because of its already shallow foreign reserves, devaluing the Kenyan shilling. The devaluation means it is becoming more expensive to pay off foreign debt, according to the China Global South Project. Story continues China risks losing global influence as Belt and Road initiative buckles Source: Foreign Affairs Many of Beijings Belt and Road Infrastructure (BRI) projects have failed to earn the returns analysts predicted, leaving several underdeveloped countries in a debt trap. But this predatory lender scheme is reminiscent of when Western multinational corporations sought to collect on bad debts throughout the 20th century, antagonizing much of the Global South, according to Foreign Affairs. Beijing risks alienating the very countries it set out to woo, the magazine wrote. This debt is also putting strain on lenders, notably the International Monetary Fund, as developing countries ask for money to repay Chinese debt. Rather than dissuading these nations from accepting Chinese loans, Western lenders should play a more active role in BRI deals to ensure transparency and prevent the IMF from having to step in, Foreign Affairs argued. Beyond the immediate crisis, things arent much better in the longer term. Chinas workforce is ageing and shrinking, creating a headwind for growth. Younger generations, meanwhile, are increasingly disaffected. Youth unemployment hit a record high of over 21 per cent in June 2023. The Governments response was to stop publishing the figures. Small wonder then that market sentiment is so cautious. While Western media outlets are increasingly willing to publish harsh criticisms of the Chinese leaderships economic ineptitude, international institutions are still treading cautiously. In December, the World Bank published a readable, elegant China Economic Update which outlined in meticulous detail the quantitative evidence for a slew of ills currently afflicting the Chinese economy. As befits the organisations expertise and credibility, the report also offers a series of suggestions as to what it would be appropriate for China to do to revive its fortunes. Given the degree to which Xi Jinping has taken personal control of the levers of state power, he is unquestionably the sole arbiter of high-level economic policy. Its accordingly of note that there is nowhere in the entire 58-page document a single reference to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), let alone Xi Jinping. Chinas economy is locked in a population doom spiral, loaded with bad debts. But as bad as the economic situation is, the political risks should weigh even heavier. Diplomatic niceties and corporate nerves mean that this failure to name names is replicated in much heavy-weight Western assessment and analysis. The result is a widespread, misguided impression that China has an economy run much like any Western free market, with issues that might appropriately be dealt with in a relatively conventional manner. The clamour of voices raised in concern over the temporary closure of the Powerhouse Museum for renovations do themselves and Sydneys cultural heritage a disservice. The Ultimo site is in desperate need of repair and refurbishment, courtesy of various governments letting decisions on renewal drift on for years as special interest groups, including some patrons, critics and unions, lobbied, complained and carped. Many protests have taken place about the temporary closure of the Powerhouse Museum in Ultimo. Credit: Louie Douvis Two decades ago it was big-end-of-town corporate types who had pushed Neville Wran to build the museum for the 1988 bicentenary, objecting to the direction the museum was heading. Now its unions are worried about the revamp, claiming no costings had been produced. There are also accusations that the Minns government and museum management had betrayed trust, while the Greens and the Save the Powerhouse Campaign think the renovations are unnecessary, expensive and absurdly risky. Some are concerned that star attractions, including Locomotive No.1, which hauled the states first passenger train, and the Catalina seaplane that made the worlds first air crossing of the Pacific, will be damaged in transit to and from storage. The museum closed to the public last Sunday for a $250 million, three-year renovation. The Minns government says the work will make for a far superior world-class museum experience when the Powerhouse reopens in 2027, and it will be two years after the ribbon is cut on the museums new $915 million sister campus now going up on the Parramatta riverside. Ultimo has become a shadow of its former self. The museums fall from grace is reflected in attendance: a one-time mecca for families, visits in 2021-22 sank to their lowest level in at least 20 years, at 168,741. This compares with the 381,582 visits logged in 2012-14 when the Baird government first worried about its popularity and discussed shifting the Powerhouse to Parramatta. But the downturn really set in around 2008 when arts funding took a hit amid internecine fighting in the Labor government ranks and more than a third of staff were made redundant. Ever since, confusion and vacillation have been the order of the day. Loading The Powerhouse Museum, like the Sydney Opera House, Museum of Contemporary Art, the recently expanded Art Gallery of NSW and the Australian Museum, have been slowly strangled by a combination of rising costs and stagnant government funding. But thanks to the dogged work of arts writer Linda Morris, the Herald has provided readers with a good sense of what is really going on behind the scenes. The years of neglect and procrastination at Ultimo have resulted not only in the attraction losing business, but damage to the building, leaks and mould have been putting its unique collection at risk for years with little remedial action taken to stop the rot. For its part, NSW Labor in the approach to the state election affirmed qualified support for Ultimo as a world-class museum but admitted concern over the shift in focus from a science and engineering museum to fashion and design then being mooted in the approach to the 2023 vote. The $250 million renovation was about half the amount promised. But it is the only government to spend dollars rescuing the Powerhouse. There was never a question that Margaret Ambroses two daughters would go to Melbournes Shelford Girls Grammar, a small school with a strong reputation for nurturing girls. Her choice was nostalgic because of my own good experiences at Shelford and also philosophical: They were always going to go to a girls school. I do believe girls thrive in an all-girls environment in education. Margie Ambrose will remove her two daughters when Shelford Girls Grammar merges with co-educational Caulfield Grammar at the end of 2024. Credit: Jason South Ambrose likes single-sex schools for girls because, I want my daughters to grow up to be bold and strong, and confident, and to take up space in this world Boys take up more teachers time, theyre louder and theyre more physically dominating. [Single-sex schooling] normalises all the leadership positions being held by girls: Even though they might go out into a co-ed world, what they know to be true, too, is that girls hold positions of power, says the author and content marketing specialist. Who benefits [from renewables]? thundered United Australia Party Senator Ralph Babet. The globalists benefit! You dont benefit. The Chinese Communist Party benefits! The average politician in that building there, the average politician is a career politician if I didnt know any better, I would swear that people in that place are selling us out to the CCP. Babet was cheered when he dived deeper into the swamp, raising a popular theory that Klaus Schwab, the German economist and founder of the World Economic Forum, wanted populations around the world to eat insects. Where do you think [renewables] are gonna go? Prime agricultural land! I guess Klaus Schwab was right when he said youre gonna eat the bugs. Youre gonna eat bugs, youre gonna earn nothing, and youre going to be happy. They do a very good job in that place of seeing that come to pass, he said, waving to Parliament House behind him. Thats what theyre doing right now. Claims about the expense and environmental cost of renewables cause endless frustration to the engineers and scientists as there is overwhelming evidence that their costs are rapidly falling just as that of nuclear continues to rise. Loading As far back as 2020, the International Energy Agency declared renewables to be the cheapest form of electricity generation in history. The most recent CSIRO report into Australian energy costs estimated that even if so-called small modular nuclear reactors popular in the Coalition existed, they would provide the most expensive form of energy. But it was not just creatures of the fringe that appeared. Former Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce, currently the opposition veterans affairs spokesman, was not only a speaker at the rally but a champion of it. As far back as August last year at the local Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) an import from US Republican politics Joyce spoke about the need for concerned citizens to travel to Canberra and make a racket on the front lawn opposing renewables. Since then, he has attended rallies in opposition to the Port Stephens offshore wind area. A politician that has the wrong conviction is very, very dangerous, he said at CPAC. A politician that has no conviction is very, very useless. At the rally he described renewable energy developments as an intergenerational swindle to the benefit of overseas manufacturers of wind turbines and solar panels. He argued that the cradle-to-grave environmental costs of manufacturing renewable energy infrastructure outweighed their benefits. You wont be able to borrow money [against your land], youll destroy the countryside, he said of wind turbines. Theyre rusty, they catch on fire. They are filth! They are filth! As the rally continued, Joyces colleagues Matt Canavan, David Gillespie, Keith Pitt and Ross Cadell mounted arguments against renewables alongside a bevy of Queensland Liberal National MPs and those from One Nation and United Australia Party. None of this was particularly surprising, though the appearance of Nationals leader David Littleproud, who was not listed as a speaker, did surprise some. During the rally, Barnaby Joyce described renewable energy as a swindle. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen Like Joyce and the other Nationals, Littleproud did not indulge in fringe conspiracy theories, but he did mount a case against the further deployment of large-scale renewables, which is crucial to the governments effort to increase renewables share of energy provision in Australia to 82 per cent, in order to meet Australias emission reduction obligations under the Paris Agreement. Littleproud said regional Australia had reached a saturation point of large-scale renewables and that there was now a case to be made to constrain future renewables to rooftops in capital cities where there was a concentration of demand and population, rather than tearing up prime agricultural land, tearing up native vegetation, not destroying the very thing they are there to protect. This is pure insanity. We need the common sense that you have brought here today to be heard inside that building in there, he said. Littleprouds rhetoric at the rally suggested a hardening against climate action inside the Nationals party room. One senior Liberal moderate observed days after the rally that there had always been opposition to climate action in both parties of the Coalition, but in recent years there had been unified support among the Coalitions leadership for a 2050 net zero target in keeping with the Paris Accord. Fracturing that, he said, would not only have negative consequences for Australias international standing, but for Liberals seeking to contest seats lost to teal independents at the last election or defend those that might be targeted at the next. Another Liberal MP said he believed that in forcing Littleproud out his colleagues were deliberately undermining his leadership. Littleproud declined to comment. Observers outside politics see the growing movement against renewables as an effort to stoke the climate wars. Im not against renewables, Im against putting wind turbines in a pristine environment George Trinkler, a protester from Port Stephens It doesnt surprise me, says Professor Mark Howden, director of the Institute for Climate, Energy & Disaster Solutions at the Australian National University. Its like the last struggles of a drowning man. He says the uptake of renewables is growing so fast that the fossil fuel industry is being forced to lobby hard through its allies to defend it. He does not believe the movement will be enough to arrest the deployment of renewables, but it could still have a significant impact. It can slow down the transition, and it can cause increased social disruption. We dont want a slow transition. Under the IPCCs projections to keep under 1.5 degrees [of warming] we have to peak emissions in 2025 and then decline, so we are not talking about years any more, we are talking about months. Speaking on Friday, Joyce denied he opposed efforts to reach net zero, stating that he supported nuclear power to that end. Rather, he was opposed to wasteful policies that hurt regional Australians. He noted that former Greens leader Bob Brown remains an opponent of some wind energy projects. He asked, as he has in the past, that if wind turbines were so good, why werent they being proposed for the waters off Manly or Bondi. This was a point made by people among the large contingents of protesters from Port Stephens and the Illawarra at the rally too. Toni Taylor, who is 73 and lives in Thirroul in Wollongong but not with an ocean view, said she found Joyce and Pauline Hanson to be the most impressive of the speakers she heard on Tuesday. Once a supporter of Bob Hawke and Paul Keating, she no longer trusts Labor. George Trinkler, a recreational fisher from Port Stephens, protested alongside a group concerned about the impact of wind turbines on seabirds and the seafloor, as well as the exclusion zones that would surround turbines in any future offshore development. Prominent among the protesters were banners against wind and solar projects. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen He has been unimpressed by the governments efforts to engage with communities, saying that Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen appeared rude and dismissive when speaking with locals who raised their concerns in a public meeting in Port Stephens last year. Im not against renewables, Im against putting wind turbines in a pristine environment, he says. No one in Port Stephens supports this. Views on offshore wind are more contested in the industrial cities of Newcastle and Wollongong, where many see the benefit of future industries that could be built on local steel platforms and installed and maintained by local workers already facing the closure of coal mines and power plants. Loading The Star of the South project proposed for Gippsland, which is Australias most advanced and for which development began under the Coalition, has attracted far less dissent. Among the people and groups who support the proposed offshore wind area slated for the Illawarra is the majority of the local council, the mayor, the University of Wollongong, the local Chamber of Commerce, the South Coast Labour Council, BlueScope Steel, Greenpeace, the Australian Conservation Foundation and the local Labor representatives including the NSW Planning Minister and local MP Paul Scully, and federal MPs Stephen Jones and Alison Byrnes. Two days before the rally against renewables in Canberra those three MPs attended a family fun day in Wollongong in support of proposed offshore wind. The tone of the event could not have been more different to the Canberra gathering think bare feet and Birkenstocks compared with Blundstones and RMs. The electrification champion and engineer Dr Saul Griffith, who has advised political figures from Matt Kean to Joe Biden, was cheerful in his advocacy of the economic benefits of renewable energy, while children slung free cups of shaved ice from a contraption he had crafted from an old bicycle. There was face painting. The gathering was far smaller than the Canberra event but it was not the only one other rallies sponsored by union and climate groups were held in Newcastle, Gladstone and Gippsland. Gauging overall support for the two activist camps is so far difficult. Evidence is thin. According to a report by the Australian Energy Infrastructure Commissioner published on February 2, 92 per cent of respondents to a survey were overwhelmingly disappointed by the extent to which project developers sought to engage with communities. The group Farmers for Climate Action highlight their own survey showing 25.8 per cent of respondents from central Queensland, Hunter and Illawarra see renewable energy projects to be the biggest opportunity for their regions over the coming 20 years, followed by tourism at 23.7 per cent and healthcare employment at 15.4 per cent. Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Remove items from your saved list to add more. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Ive recently fallen in love with Clonakilla shiraz and shiraz viognier and would like to know how to identify more of these lighter styles of Australian shiraz? P.G., Aukland, New Zealand Cool-climate regions are the place to shop for this style of shiraz. Even Tasmania is producing some lovely examples these days in the more elegant, finer-boned, pepper-and-spice-scented style. Southern Victorias Yarra Valley, the Mornington Peninsula and Geelong do it well, but dont overlook the Adelaide Hills, Orange, Western Australias Great Southern and Victorias Beechworth. Clonakilla is in the Canberra District, where there are several other wineries making a similar style of shiraz, such as Eden Road, Four Winds, Ravensworth, Mount Majura, Collector Wines, Gundog Estate, Lerida Estate, Nick OLeary, Shaw Vineyard, Linear and McWilliams. Last year my eldest and youngest took me to the Forum for Jets Get Born 20th anniversary show. Back in the day the CD was on high rotation in the people mover and has become a nostalgic touchpoint of family togetherness as much as a Lord of the Rings marathon or our love for Bombers legend Dustin Fletcher. That night we yelled songs at each other gotta leave town, got another appointment and revelled in memories. The only thing missing was middle kid Felix. Out on Flinders Street after the show, my son Jack rang him. Mate, come and meet us in the city. Princes William and Harry have famously fallen out in recent years. Credit: AP Felix was a step ahead: Im already at yours. Get an Uber, bring the old stager over. Friday kick-ons. The show was ace, but the best thing about the night was it reinforced how close our children still are. The legacy of years of sharing bedrooms, secrets, whinges, Mario Kart controllers is that as adults they go to the footy, to festivals, to each others places. When we discuss the goalposts for retirement, none of us want to think about working longer than we have to, and all of us want to get excited about seemingly carefree days in the latter third of our lives. And yet, when we talk about life expectancy for over-40s and even over-60s today, many people would think were crazy wanting to give up work completely at 60 or 65 if were likely to live into our 90s and beyond. Weve clearly got to embrace a new life stage before retirement. Credit: istock So lets reset our thinking about work, money and the choices we will have the power to make as we approach retirement age. I suggest building two goalposts for life, instead of the single one we currently call retirement. Were the reset generations. Anyone over 40 or 50 today has had almost 20 years added to their life expectancy in their lifetime. I understand where theyre coming from but the problem with the Year of the Dragon is limited time. At the end of the day, whatever year you are born in, you make good. I think its more important to have a baby when it suits you. The Year of the Dragon is followed by the Year of the Snake, which is considered by many a less desirable zodiac sign. If it was a bunny next year, I wouldnt be so concerned, Xia says. If I was in China I wouldnt be so concerned either because the snake is considered a little dragon. But in the Western culture the snake has kind of a negative connotation, like a snake in the grass. Xia has an egg transfer scheduled for later this month. Im definitely one of those patients who tried to get in to see Dr Foo before its too late. The Year of the Dragon ends on January 28, 2025, which means that women have until late April to conceive. Melvis Miao, who became pregnant after her second round of IVF, had her fingers crossed for a dragon baby after missing out on a rabbit baby when her first IVF cycle failed. Melvis Miao is delighted to be pregnant with a dragon baby. Credit: Eddie Jim She says it was touch and go whether the timing of her cycle would mean she could have the egg transfer at Melbourne IVF before the Christmas break. I was hoping, hoping my body would listen to me and then it happened. Luckily I got my surgery scheduled on the last working day. I did have a strong feeling that this time it was going to work. When I heard the news oh my god it was so exciting. Miaos fertility specialist, Dr Fleur Cattrall, has both Chinese and non-Chinese patients who have told her the Year of the Dragon was a lucky one. Loading Everyone knows the Year of the Dragon, she says. When people are struggling to fall pregnant they often look for signs of good fortune and hope. During 2012, the most recent Year of the Dragon, Singapores birth rate skyrocketed to a five-year high. A 2021 study that analysed births in the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen, found that 6.7 per cent were deliberately delayed from the last week of 2011s Rabbit year to the first week of the 2012 Dragon year. In 2012, Chinas birth rate increased to 14.57 births per 1000 inhabitants up from 13.27 in 2011 before dipping back down to 13.03 in 2013. Xiujian Peng, a senior research fellow from the Centre of Policy Studies at Victoria University, says there are hopes this dragon year will also see a bump in births, after Chinas population shrunk for two consecutive years. Women take a selfie with a giant dragon lantern in Beijing. Credit: AP Demographer Daniel Goodkind, whose doctoral thesis was on the dragon baby boom, predicts a substantial birth spike this dragon year in ethnic Chinese populations across the world, including Australia. However, Goodkind says it is a relatively modern phenomenon. Birth rates first spiked in the dragon year of 1976 in Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia. Goodkind says this is likely to be because the lack of modern contraception made it harder to time births in the past. Loading The surge in fertility outside of mainland China in 1976 and 1988 could reflect ethnic Chinese communities reviving traditional symbols which were under threat during the Cultural Revolution, he says. The dragon boom years led to perverse outcomes in some places, where dragon babies faced increased competition at school, for university places and in the labour market. Goodkind says the 1976 fertility spike in Taiwan led to greater demands on maternal health services and overcrowded classrooms, prompting authorities to launch the Think Three Times campaign in an attempt to discourage parents from aiming for birth in the 1988 dragon year. Ben Roberts-Smiths defamation case was not like a detective novel where there could be multiple explanations for killings in Afghanistan, and a decision finding he engaged in war crimes should not be overturned, the barrister acting for the media outlets at the centre of the lawsuit has said. Nicholas Owens, SC, acting for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald, urged the Full Court of the Federal Court on Friday to reject the former soldiers appeal against Justice Anthony Besankos historic decision last year dismissing his multimillion-dollar defamation suit against the newspapers. Ben Roberts-Smith outside the Federal Court in Sydney during the trial. Credit: Rhett Wyman Besanko found the newspapers had proven to the civil standard on the balance of probabilities that Roberts-Smith was complicit in the murder of four unarmed prisoners while on deployment in Afghanistan between 2009 and 2012. This is lower than the criminal standard of beyond reasonable doubt. Owens told the court that Roberts-Smiths barrister, Bret Walker, SC, had raised hypothetical scenarios during the appeal, including that Australian soldiers might be motivated to plant a Taliban-issued object on the body of an Afghan man killed legitimately in war to help avoid unnecessary questions about whether the killing was in fact lawful. The NSW government is facing calls to commit to trackless trams or light rail on Parramatta Road, which proponents say will not require the acquisition of homes or businesses along the maligned corridor. NSW Roads Minister John Graham was forced to intervene on Friday after the Herald revealed Transport for NSW plans showing almost 200 properties along Parramatta Road were at risk of being demolished or having land reclaimed under a proposal to add a rapid transport lane. Parramatta Road is described as one of Sydneys worst thoroughfares. Credit: Louise Kennerley Grahams move to rule out the proposal raises questions about the Minns governments vision for the corridor, which has been subject to grand plans in the past that have failed to materialise. Committee for Sydney chief executive Eamon Waterford said it was crucial that the government decide on light rail or trackless trams along Parramatta Road, which would support housing development and a renewed high street. The Queensland government has lost its bid to avoid paying $2.7 million to a couple who lost their house after it was sold to them under fraudulent circumstances. The Brisbane Court of Appeals ruling handed down on Friday potentially ends an almost six-year ordeal for Gold Coast couple Jess and Jackie Morecroft, who lost their newly purchased dream home that was secretly tied up in a feud within the original owners family. Jess and Jackie Morecroft bought the home at Mermaid Beach on the Gold Coast in 2018. Credit: change.org Mr Morecroft said outside court that the result was unbelievable and Ms Morecroft said she was incredibly relieved. Its been such a long six years and to have the original decision confirmed unanimously was just enormous, she said. For all the attention on how Brisbane will host the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, there are many who believe the city needs a night-time economy first. Crowds going out in Fortitude Valley. Credit: Paul Harris Going into 2032, it is essential for Brisbane to become a 24-hour city, said QMusic chief executive officer Kris Stewart. I dont think we should be able to invite people to Brisbane in 2032 and ask them to be in bed by 6pm. Its not an uncommon view in Brisbane, not only to support tourism and local businesses, but also to cater to the gig workers who keep the economy running and have their own needs after-hours. Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size It was a little over a week ago that Maggie May Moshe decided that Melbournes Thornbury no longer felt like a safe place for Jews. She was standing amid High Streets rumbling clatter in tears, furiously scraping at anti-Israeli stickers someone had plastered on the windows of the gift shop shed owned and run with her husband Joshua for the past seven years. A passing young woman stopped to watch what she was doing. You should leave them up, the woman said. Unless you support genocide, you shouldnt take them down. Whatever your cause this isnt advocacy, says Joshua Moshe, with wife Maggie May. Credit: Justin McManus Maggie May is identifiably Jewish. Although she is still converting to her adopted faith, she wears a style of headscarf that denotes an orthodox, married woman. And here she was, on the main street of an uber-hip, inner-north suburb of Melbourne, being told to leave in place stickers that carry a Ghostbuster-style cross through the Star of David. Otherwise, she would be condoning a horrific war in Gaza, which, according to the latest estimates, has killed nearly 28,000 people. Before they arrived at the shop that morning, Maggie May and Joshua Moshe, a professional musician, already felt as though the ground was crumbling beneath their feet. Their personal and store Instagram feeds were inundated with abusive posts. Josh had been dumped from the band hed played with for the best part of a decade. On the mobile phone attached to the store, an unidentified woman had left the following voice mail: You racist motherf---ers better keep watching your motherf---in back yall. All us... know where you are now motherf---er. Advertisement The same caller also left an SMS: an image of their four-year-old son. The Moshes have decided to close their business and shift it to a part of Melbourne where more Jewish people live. Im devastated I cant be in this community any more, Maggie May says. I care deeply about people who live near our shop and supported our shop. It is a real shame that has been destroyed by this antisemitism and unkindness. I worked almost every day for seven years on that business, and I dont really know what I am left with now. Across urbane, progressive enclaves of Melbourne and Sydney hundreds of people who work in the media, music, the arts and academia, are today experiencing some of what the Moshe family has been through. They are members of a WhatsApp group created to give Jewish writers, artists, musicians and intellectuals a private space to talk about October 7 and the war in Gaza. Joshua Moshe was a member and occasional contributor to the group which would discuss their concern about rising intolerance for Jews in their workplaces, schools and broader social circles and what they could do about that. It is this last aspect, including talk of writing to employers of people with strong public pro-Palestinian positions that has stoked particular controversy. Joshua, Maggie May and their family business were targeted after a transcript from the chat group, which had swollen to more than 600 members, was leaked to pro-Palestinian activists. Advertisement Comments that Joshua made were republished on social media, along with the name of his wife described by an activist who has never met her as a raging Zio and social media links to their business and Joshuas band. This is known as doxxing, a form of online attack which exposes the identities and workplaces of people who would otherwise be anonymous. This week the issue burst into a national debate after prominent activists and pro-Palestine supporters such as feminist author Clementine Ford published links to documents containing the names, occupations, social media profiles and images of hundreds of Jewish people who were members of the J.E.W.I.S.H Australian creatives and academics chat group. Ford was a topic of frequent discussion within the 900 pages of the leaked transcript including discussion about targeting her publisher. Federal Labor MP Josh Burns told the ABC the episode was distressing. The leaks of these groups and the coordinated publication of members names, faces and other personal information has created a nightmare for many in our community, said Executive Council of Australian Jewry co-chief executive Alex Ryvchin. They have done nothing wrong, yet several social media influencers have been able to inflict enormous harm with absolute impunity. Zionist Federation of Australia president Jeremy Leibler said Jews had been put on a hit list. Advertisement Australian Palestine Advocacy Network president Nasser Mashni said these concerns missed the bigger issue the apparent attempt by some members of the WhatsApp group to stop people from speaking against the war. People should not be threatened or silenced for acting with moral clarity and speaking up about genocide in Palestine, he said. Why arent people putting more energy into calling for an immediate end to Israels atrocities in Gaza? Ford was unapologetic for her part in exposing the groups membership and what had been said within the private forum. Former ABC journalist Ramona Koval joined the WhatsApp group at the invitation of a friend. Credit: Darren James Regarding Joshua Moshe, it is absurd to suggest Im responsible for any threats he and his wife (not to mention their child) are receiving, she said. While Im sure hes extremely embarrassed at having his involvement exposed, I didnt force him to participate in this group nor do I owe him or his business the respect of keeping it private. There are over 150 mentions of me within this chat, with repeated calls to target my publisher and various other employees insisting they sever ties with me. One of these campaigns was successful. Joshua is less embarrassed than dismayed. Only someone with a heinous perception of Jews could believe that membership of a WhatsApp Group, or a letter to an MP, is proof of a plot to control the world. Whatever your cause this isnt advocacy, he said. Joshua was part of two discussions which angered pro-Palestinian activists. The first was where he drew a parallel between anti-Zionist Jews who claim to speak for Jewish communities they have little cultural connection to and young, city-based Indigenous activists whose political views dont necessarily align with those from regional areas. Advertisement It is a fraught construct that exposed Joshua to accusations of racism by his former band members. He insists his comments, which he says were clunky have been misinterpreted but agrees they would have been better left unsaid. The crux of my observation was directed towards people in my community. It wasnt supposed to be a critique of Indigenous activists. The second goes to the overarching allegation against some members the group; that in their discussions and subsequent actions, they targeted and sought to silence prominent, pro-Palestinian advocates. Shortly before Christmas, discussion within the group turned to Nadine Chemali, a freelance writer and occasional SBS contributor who describes herself as avidly pro-Jew but anti-Israel. Moshe in the discussion described Chemali as wildly anti-Zionist and offered to take a deep dive into her social media posts to see if she had said anything that might breach her contract with SBS. Loading In the end, no deep dive was done and no issue raised with SBS, but once the transcript was leaked, Ford republished the discussion and accused Joshua of hypocrisy. I mean, do not complain about your privacy being violated when this is what youre doing, she wrote to her 252,000 Instagram followers. Susanne Newton, the Greens mayor of the Darebin Council, which takes in Thornbury and which flies the Palestinian flag from the town hall in support of those suffering in Gaza, said she was shocked and appalled by the targeting of a local family business. I strongly condemn this behaviour, she said. I know Maggie May and Josh personally, and they are an essential part of our community. Advertisement The state government is currently upgrading two major roads at McGregor Road and Racecourse Road as well as level crossing removals at Racecourse Road, McGregor Road and Main Street. It is also building two new train stations at Pakenham, with the aim of reducing bottlenecks and improving traffic flow and connections to and from the Princes Freeway. Cardinia Shire Council also has a 12-stage multimillion-dollar plan to upgrade the town centres look and feel, with wider footpaths, improved street lighting, parallel parking bays, more greenery, as well as murals and artworks in the laneways and arcades. Thorne, who lives on the outskirts of Pakenham on a few acres of land with her ponies, said she had seen the suburb drastically change and neighbours move out because it had become too built up. Her worry is that the state government and local council have let Pakenham become too big, and its rural roots are being lost to sprawling housing developments and estates. Im sorry to see old Pakenham go, you know. It was well, sort of, you know, a farming community, Thorne said. I suppose theres green wedge zones and everything but there has to be a point where youd be saying no more in this area. Urban sprawl and the Australian dream When Cardinia Shire Council Mayor Jack Kowarzik first moved to Pakenham 20 years ago, like many residents, his family was in the pursuit of affordable housing and the Australian dream of owning a freestanding home with plenty of space. We were squeezed out of some of those inner Melbourne suburbs, said 32-year-old Kowarzik, a plumber by trade. Cardinia Shire Council Mayor Jack Korwarzik said the state government need to continue to invest in essential infrastructure like roads, schools and hospitals in Pakenham. Credit: Eddie Jim In 2020, the state government greenlit plans for a new suburb within Pakenham Pakenham East, which will have 7000 new homes, bring in thousands of new residents, and 1500 new jobs. Last year, the Pakenham median house price was $630,000, according to Domain. The area has also become more culturally diverse with many young migrant families snapping up house-and-land packages. According to census data, the number of residents with both parents born overseas jumped to 33 per cent in 2022, up from 26.5 per cent in 2016. Loading Kowarzik, the former chair of the multicultural advisory group for Cardinia Shire Council, said Pakenham was establishing itself as a melting pot of cultures and the council was embracing the diversity. Its a great thing, and we love it, he said. However, the population boom more broadly was compounding the suburbs already significant challenges of overdevelopment, a lack of infrastructure funding, and an imbalance of essential services such as hospitals and schools, Kowarzik said. He also said the majority of the suburbs residents left the suburb for work, forcing them to sit in traffic for hours each day. Pakenham does not have a hospital and construction for a Pakenham Community Hospital by the state government has previously encountered legal setbacks and is yet to begin. In Victoria, every township has a role to play, I think, in helping to resolve the housing crisis that weve seen. Because Pakenham has carried such a significant load, we would want to see development done in a very considered manner, Kowarzik said. He pointed to the state governments 70/30 plan to contain Melbournes outward growth by building 70 per cent of all new homes in inner and middle ring suburbs, as a welcome relief but not a complete solution. We have to be realistic because weve experienced so much growth over the last 20 years. Were already short on infrastructure and transport funding from that period of time. If the government is going to switch now, thats fine, but we need that funding to keep coming through to make sure our community is supported and that Cardinia Shire is as livable as it possibly can be, Kowarzik said Prominent planning expert Dr Marcus Spiller, a partner at SGS Economics & Planning, agreed the state government needed to invest in growth suburbs. He said the planning of growth corridors where Pakenham was located made more sense in the 1980s when Victorias economy benefited from manufacturing. The economy back then had a much, much larger dependence on manufacturing and the jobs that go with manufacturing tended to be suburban and go out with the population. So for example, Dandenong back in the 60s and 70s was a high-income manufacturing base and good jobs were in that sector, he said. Loading Now, the burgeoning greenfield suburbs have become a social divide that is in the offing, Spiller said. At greenfield cities like Pakenham, there is constrained access to jobs, which creates an opportunity where people are more or less confined to living their lives in that orbit versus inner and middle established parts of Melbourne, where households have more life opportunities and can probably look forward to stronger housing asset price growth, he said. According to Victorias Department of Transport and Planning, Melbournes population will soar from 4.9 million to 6.4 million between 2021 and 2036, and 54 per cent of the growth will be concentrated in the citys outer west, north and south-east. Spiller also forecasts in a recent report from SGS that 1 million people or 400,000 households will still move into growth suburbs over the next three decades under the state governments 70/30 model. This means the state government still needs to heavily invest in infrastructure for growth suburbs, he said. Spiller also said the government should look into increasing job capacity by moving government jobs to such areas. Part of the problem with living there [in Pakenham] is that you have so few jobs available to you, he said. The future of the suburb At a dazzling estate called Lakeside, Pakenham is at its best, says resident Mike Zarb. Youve got everything you need here, you dont ever have to leave, he said, pointing to the man-made lake. Zarb, a retiree, bought into the estate four years ago from Rowville and was attracted by the easy living and slow pace of life in Pakenham. Mike Zarb on the Lakeside jetty in Pakenham Credit: Penny Stephens I just love it, the outdoors, the nature. I think the council even bring in fish every year into the lake so we can fish, he said. But like most people, he thinks theres been enough growth outwards and doesnt want to see the suburb overdeveloped. The state government and Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny have so far ruled out any changes to the urban growth boundary. Mayor Kowarzik said Cardinia Shire Council would not be supportive if that would ever become a point of contention. I dont think advocating for expansion of the urban growth boundary is an appropriate thing and its not something that, as a council, we have even spoken about or advocated for, he said. We have no plans to advocate for that because we have to be really conscious of the fact that some of our green wedge zones are some of the most beautiful parts of the world, he said. In our Shire, we have Puffing Billy and Gumbuya World and all these sorts of beautiful rural areas, and businesses. We have a lot of productive farmland as well Koo Wee Rup, Vervale, Iona. However, the reality is that greenfield suburbs like Pakenham are looking likely to be built all the way to the urban growth boundary, to meet the housing demand, said Spiller. A protective services officer (PSO) shot a man near Flinders Street Station on Friday evening after police said the man confronted them wielding broken glass. Victoria Police said PSOs and uniformed police responded about 5.30pm to an unrelated alleged attempted robbery and assault on Princes Bridge that led to four people being hospitalised before the shooting occurred. At this early stage in the investigation, its believed a man armed with broken glass confronted several PSOs, police said in a statement issued just before 10pm. Two PSOs have deployed OC spray, which didnt appear to have any effect. One PSO discharged his firearm, with the man being struck once. Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size For generations, they have enticed the hungry with grand names evoking kingdoms, mythical creatures and faraway lands. Inside, their walls are adorned with paintings of historical figures in lavish robes and depictions of terraced and mountainous landscapes. Waving cats perch beside cash registers. These Chinese restaurants are culinary mainstays of regional Victoria, having served loyal customers for decades. Step inside for a reliable feast of battered honey chicken, sweet and sour pork, chow mein and king prawns with a generous serve of comfort and nostalgia. Golden Crown owner Sandra Thai in her Ballarat restaurant. Credit: Justin McManus These emblems of multiculturalism have thrived, often in overwhelmingly Anglo communities, to become much-loved institutions serving Chinese-Australian fare. Its the theatre of Mongolian steak that arrives sizzling on a hotplate; the spicy tang of hot and sour soup; the mysterious physics of fried ice cream. In Ballarat, Sandra Thai opened the Golden Crown with her late husband Henry in 1980, three years after arriving in Australia. She is justifiably proud of her career. For this restaurant to survive so many years, I must have something special, she says. When I came here there was not much competition and the town was quiet. Advertisement So, the couple took a risk with the backup plan of returning to Melbourne if it failed. More than 43 years later, Golden Crown remains a fixture on Ballarats growing culinary scene. Inside the kitchen at Golden Crown. Credit: Justin McManus Thai, who was born in Vietnam but has Chinese heritage, was just 24 when she started the restaurant. Within a few years, she was raising three children while working seven days a week. But success came at a price. I lost all my good friends. You have to sacrifice your private life. Customers have since become like friends its a special relationship. Sometimes they tell Thai about their own family lives. And their support has vastly eclipsed the rare instances of racism she has encountered, abusive calls in which she is told to go back to your country. But I just disregard them. This is a minority. To me, its nothing. The majority of local people are very nice. Advertisement Thai says the combination birds nest is among Golden Crowns best dishes. Its served in a crispy fried potato basket filled with prawns, chicken and snow peas in a rich umami and garlicky sauce. After her husband died in 2015, Thai returned to work within a week and continued welcoming customers with a smile. This personable service is apparent in Chinese restaurants across regional Victoria. In the town of Euroa, Connie Zhong seems to know what her customers want before they pass through the door of her restaurant, Flam Shan. How are you, Andy? she says, greeting a midweek lunchtime customer. The usual? Connie and her husband Ken took over Flam Shan in 2001, but she believes its at least 40 years old. She was born in the southern province of Guangdong formerly Canton and has lived in Australia for 29 years. Connie and Ken Zhong outside their Euroa restaurant, Flam Shan. Credit: Justin McManus The exterior of Flam Shan is all faded yellow and red, a colour scheme that continues inside. The yellow counter and bar sit beneath a wooden latticed gazebo with a red roof and fake flowers in pots. Advertisement During the lunchtime rush, Connie buzzes about the restaurant floor alone, busily serving customers, chatting, clearing tables and dispatching takeaway orders to Ken in the kitchen, who clanks, sizzles and scrapes the dishes in his woks. Loading It is hard work, but Connie is happy with their decision to take over the restaurant. I think its a very good life, she says. Country people are very friendly. The couple kept the restaurants name when they took over, but customers affectionately refer to it as Connie and Kens or just Connies. Andy Williams, who lives in the nearby hills, is among them. Every time I come into town I get something. The lunch special is cheap as, he says. He orders seafood with fried rice. Advertisement Connies dim sims arent bad either, Williams says. Obviously, Connie is a terrific hostess. Connie serving customers. Credit: Justin McManus Julie Kettyle says she has been eating there for about 30 years. Its simply the best, she says, sitting down to lunch. I would travel from the other side of the world to get here. I just love it. Im in heaven when Im here. A few tables away is Linda Jukes from the nearby town of Ruffy, who eats at Connies about once a week. Flam Shans barbecue pork chow mein. Credit: Justin McManus Everything you order on the menu, very nice, she says, preparing to devour a plate of king prawns in garlic sauce and vegetables. Advertisement A mother has sobbed and a father has hugged a prosecutor outside court after four boys were found guilty of murdering their 16-year-old son in a Melbourne street attack. Declan Cutler was walking alone down a dark street when he was kicked, stomped on and stabbed by a group of eight boys in March 2022. Declan Cutlers father Bryan Beattie reacts outside court. Credit: AAP He had just left a party in Reservoir in Melbournes north and had become separated from his two friends when a stolen Mazda pulled up alongside him. The Supreme Court of Victoria heard the group of boys jumped from the car and pounced on Declan, stabbing and kicking him as he lay on the nature strip. Fifty firefighters tackled a large burning fertiliser shed on Friday at Kwinana Beach with residents up to 15 kilometres inland warned to stay inside. The hazardous materials warning affected residents in 18 suburbs including Kwinana, Parmelia, Wellard, East Rockingham and Oakford. The Department of Fire and Emergency Services advised them to stay inside with air conditioning turned off. On Saturday 12 firefighters were still at the scene and nearby residents in Kwinana Beach were still being warned to remain inside to avoid fumes and smoke. The fire was reported to authorities at 1.30pm on Friday and raged through the facility of Canadian fertiliser giant Nutrien Ag which imports granular and liquid fertiliser, and along a conveyor leading to a jetty. Defence whistleblower David McBride is being told to expect a jail term for leaking information about alleged war crimes in Afghanistan, sparking new warnings that his case is being used to silence others who could expose wrongdoing. The former military lawyer pleaded guilty to the leaks last November and is due to be sentenced next month, with his legal team hoping he would avoid jail because he had exposed problems in the national interest. Whistleblower David McBride arrives at court in November. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen But his lawyer, Mark Davis, said prosecutors had indicated they would seek a custodial sentence on March 12. David McBride has got his critics, but thered be very few people who would deny that the spark he lit has set off a chain of events that revealed grossly inappropriate behaviour done in the name of Australia, he said. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO US NEWSWIRES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES North Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2024) - Lion One Metals Limited (TSXV: LIO) (OTCQX: LOMLF) (ASX: LLO) ("Lion One" or the "Company") announces that further to its previously announced overnight marketed public offering (the "Offering") of units of the Company (the "Offered Units"), it has fully filled the Offering and entered into an underwriting agreement (the "Underwriting Agreement") with a syndicate of underwriters led by Cantor Fitzgerald Canada Corporation ("CFCC"), as lead underwriter and sole bookrunner, and including Canaccord Genuity Corp., Eight Capital, and Raymond James (collectively with CFCC, the "Underwriters") to sell: (i) 21,000,000 common share units ("Units") at a price to the public of C$0.50 per Unit (the "Unit Price"). Each Unit shall be comprised of one common share of the Company ("Common Share") and one common share purchase warrant ("Warrant"). Each Warrant shall entitle the holder to purchase one Common Share at C$0.65 at any time on or before the date which is 36 months after the Closing Date. The Company has granted to the Underwriters an option (the "Over-Allotment Option"), exercisable in whole or in part, in the sole discretion of the Underwriters, for a period of 30 days following the closing of the Offering, to purchase up to an additional 3,150,000 Units at the Unit Price. If the Over-Allotment Option is exercised in full, the total gross proceeds to the Company will be approximately C$12.1 million. The Company will pay the Underwriters a cash commission equal to 6.0% of the gross proceeds of the Offering, including proceeds received from the exercise of the Over-Allotment Option, in addition to broker warrants to purchase up to 6.0% of the number of Offered Units, including the Offered Units from the exercise of the Over-Allotment Option sold in the Offering (the "Broker Warrants"), at the closing of the Offering. Each Broker Warrant shall entitle the Underwriters to purchase one unit having the same terms as a Unit at the Unit Price at any time on or before the date which is 36 months after the closing date. Story continues The net proceeds received by the Company from the sale of the Offered Units will be used for development and ramp up expenses at the Tuvatu Gold project located in Fiji, as well as for general corporate expenses & purposes. The Offering will be made by way of a prospectus supplement (the "Prospectus Supplement") to the Company's existing Canadian short form base shelf prospectus dated May 13, 2022 (the "Base Shelf Prospectus"). The Prospectus Supplement will be filed with the securities commissions in Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta and is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Alternatively, the Prospectus Supplement and related Base Shelf Prospectus may be obtained upon request by contacting the Company or Cantor Fitzgerald Canada Corporation in Canada, attention: Equity Capital Markets, 181 University Avenue, Suite 1500, Toronto, ON, M5H 3M7, email: ecmcanada@cantor.com. The Offered Units will not be offered or sold in the United States except under Rule 144A or Regulation D or in such other manner as to not require registration under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The Offered Units may also be offered in those jurisdictions outside of Canada and the United States as agreed to by the Company and the Underwriters provided that no prospectus filing or comparable obligation arises and the Company does not thereafter become subject to continuous disclosure obligations in such jurisdictions. The Offering is expected to close on or about February 14, 2024, and is subject to the completion of formal documentation and receipt of regulatory approvals, including the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. About Lion One Metals Limited Lion One is an emerging Canadian gold producer headquartered in North Vancouver BC, with new operations established in late 2023 at its 100% owned Tuvatu Alkaline Gold Project in Fiji. The Tuvatu project comprises the high-grade Tuvatu Alkaline Gold Deposit, the Underground Gold Mine, the Pilot Plant, and the Assay Lab. The Company also has an extensive exploration license covering the entire Navilawa Caldera, which is host to multiple mineralized zones and highly prospective exploration targets. As disclosed in its "Technical Report and PEA Update for the Tuvatu Gold Project" dated April 29, 2022, the 2018 Tuvatu resource estimate comprises 1,007,000 tonnes indicated at 8.50 g/t Au (274,600 oz. Au) and 1,325,000 tonnes inferred at 9.0 g/t Au (384,000 oz. Au) at a cut-off grade of 3.0 g/t Au. The technical report is available on the Lion One website at www.liononemetals.com and under the Lion One profile on the SEDAR+ website at www.sedarplus.ca. In accordance with National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, Alex Nichol, MAIG, VP Geology and Exploration for Lion One, is the Qualified Person for the Company and has reviewed and is responsible for the technical and scientific content of this news release. Contact Information Investor inquiries: info@liononemetals.com Phone:1-855-805-1250 (toll free North America) Website: www.liononemetals.com Forward-Looking Statements This press release may contain statements that may be deemed to be "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward-looking information. Generally, forward-looking information may be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "proposed", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases, or by the use of words or phrases which state that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, or might occur or be achieved. This forward-looking information reflects Lion One Metals Limited's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to Lion One Metals Limited and on assumptions Lion One Metals Limited believes are reasonable. These assumptions include, but are not limited to, the results of the Offering and associated marketing efforts, the use of proceeds of the Offering, actual results of exploration projects being equivalent to or better than estimated results in technical reports, assessment reports, and other geological reports or prior exploration results., and results of ongoing production operations. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance, or achievements of Lion One Metals Limited or its subsidiaries to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such risks and other factors may include, but are not limited to: prevailing capital markets conditions, the stage development of Lion One Metals Limited, general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; the actual results of current research and development or operational activities; competition; uncertainty as to patent applications and intellectual property rights; product liability and lack of insurance; delay or failure to receive board or regulatory approvals; changes in legislation, including environmental legislation, affecting mining, timing and availability of external financing on acceptable terms; not realizing on the potential benefits of technology; conclusions of economic evaluations; and lack of qualified, skilled labor or loss of key individuals. Although Lion One Metals Limited 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. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Lion One Metals Limited does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/197368 Ask any Tokyophiles for their must-do experiences in the Japanese capital, and they will probably cite teamLab amongst them. A Japanese-born digital art collective, in a nutshell teamLab creates immersive installations which utilise cutting-edge technology. With offshoots in Osaka, Macao, Beijing, Singapore, and exhibitions so far in Melbourne, New York and Taipei, teamLab is consistently a major drawcard for international tourists. TeamLab Credit: Alamy TeamLab Planets in Tokyo recently ranked in the top five of the Most Popular Museums in the World in Googles annual search rankings for 2023, while after four hugely successful years of operation including hosting 2.3 million visitors in its first year, the flagship, teamLab Borderless closed in 2022. However, it has just reopened, relocated to the Mori JP Tower in Tokyos new Azabudai Hills district. And the buzz is already loud. Visitors can expect the trademark teamLab projections and light shows that move dynamically with the presence of humans. Sound and smell are as much a part of the art as sight, and a teahouse takes care of taste. And if you need a good lie down after all that, in the same building, the hotel, Janu Tokyo is set to open in March. PHILIPSBURG:--- The House of Parliament will sit in a Public meeting on February 9, 2024. The Public meeting is scheduled for Friday at 10.00 hrs. in the Legislative Hall at Wilhelminastraat #1 in Philipsburg. The agenda point is: Closing of the Parliamentary Term 2020-2024 Article 46 of the Constitution stipulates that the duration of the Parliament shall be for four years. This current Parliament sat for the first time on February 10, 2020, and based on the aforementioned article, the current term will come to an end on February 10, 2024. During this meeting meeting Members of Parliament will be given the opportunity to reflect on the past four years and address Parliament and the people of Sint Maarten on this occasion. Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations. All persons visiting the House of Parliament must adhere to the house rules. The House of Parliament is located across from the Court House in Philipsburg. The parliamentary sessions will be carried live on TV 15, Soualiga Headlines, via SXM GOV radio FM 107.9, via Pearl Radio FM 98.1, the audio via the internet www.sxmparliament.org, www.pearlfmradio.sx, and www.youtube.com/c/SintMaartenParliament https://pilp.nu/en/lawsuit-against-demonstration-ban-st-maarten/ en https://pilp.nu/rechtszaak-tegen-demonstratieverbod-st-maarten/ The inhumane and horrible events in Israel and Gaza have led to people all over the world organizing demonstrations and marches calling for a cease-fire and in solidarity with the plight of Palestinians. A group of concerned citizens in Sint Maarten also felt obliged to take to the streets and organize a dignified and peaceful demonstration in solidarity with the people suffering in Palestine. During consultations, where the police and organizers positively interacted, a march route was determined and a date was agreed for the 19th of November 2023. The organizers of the demonstration were startled to find out that the Minister of Justice prohibited the march from happening with a formal decision on 17 November 2023. The Minister, using the term propaganda, stated there were rumors on the internet related to the protest, allegedly talking about the destruction of property and a call to burn flags. The authorities stated to expect severe unrest that could not be prevented by placing restrictions on the demonstration: the only option left was the complete banning of the demonstration which effectively resulted in a prohibition of the related freedom of speech and assembly. Humera Alam, spokesperson for the organizers of the demonstration stated: We had and have no indications whatsoever about any expected unrest at all. The protest was planned to be small, modest, and peaceful and, in agreement with the police, we had also arranged a group of participants to keep order in close collaboration with the police. She adds: by completely banning the demonstration, we were not able to voice our concerns, feelings, and solidarity about Palestine. Our civil and human rights are being oppressed and violated, which actually makes the prohibition about more than just the reason for demonstrating in the first place. We are also disappointed because of how non-transparent the authorities were during the whole process. The organizers decided to take legal action, and last December an appeal was sent to the Court of First Instance. Find a direct link to the appeal here (in Dutch) or read more about this case here. The organizers are supported in this case by the lawyers of PILP, a human rights law firm and NGO based in Amsterdam that has ample experience on right to protest cases. Jelle Klaas of PILP, the leading lawyer in this case said that: The decision to ban the demonstration altogether is highly problematic. First, because authorities, if at all necessary, can also impose restrictions that are less far-reaching than a total ban. Second, because the decision is legally completely contrary to the law and human rights. Third, because an enormous chilling effect emanates from this decision, making people (wrongly) think that demonstrating in Sint Maarten is not possible or allowed, which is damaging to democracy and the rule of law. A court hearing is expected later in the year. Julian Birkinshaw is the new dean of Ivey Business School at Western University in Canada Julian Birkinshaw has spent the last quarter-century at London Business School. His next home will be a smaller London an ocean away. On Thursday (February 8), Ivey Business School at Western University in London, Ontario, Canada named Birkinshaw its next dean, effective August 1. What Birkinshaw loses in urbanity, he gains in familiarity: The long-time professor of strategy and entrepreneurship earned both an MBA, in 1991, and a Ph.D. in business administration, in 1995, from Ivey. He also met his wife Laura there. Doing my MBA at Ivey was very formative, Birkinshaw says in the announcement of his appointment. I loved it. AUTHOR OF 15 BOOKS & RECIPIENT OF MULTIPLE AWARDS Birkinshaw, who is also currently vice dean at London Business School, joined LBS as an assistant professor in April 1999 and became a full professor with tenure in 2004. The native of Hexham in Northumberland, Great Britain is the author of 15 books and more than 90 scholarly papers, as well as the winner of multiple academic awards and honors, including the 2022 Harvard Business Review Prize for his article How Incumbents Survive and Thrive, an analysis of the impact of technological disruption on corporate stability. He holds honorary degrees from Copenhagen Business School and Stockholm School of Economics, and he is a Fellow of the British Academy, Strategic Management Society, and the (American) Academy of Management. He regularly ranks amongst the Thinkers50 list of global management thinkers. In short, in the words of Western President Alan Shepard, Birkinshaw is an internationally renowned scholar in business research and education, whose expertise on innovation, digital transformation, and the agility of large multinational firms will be invaluable to Ivey and Western. Birkinshaw replaces Ivey Dean Sharon Hodgson, who retires on June 30. He goes from one of the largest B-schools in the world to one that is smaller by a third: LBS has nearly 2,400 students across all programs; the Ivey School has about 1,600. In Poets&Quants 2024 ranking of full-time MBA programs at international business schools, LBS ranked 4th, while Ivey was 25th. In The Financial Times 2023 global ranking of business schools, LBS ranked 16th and Ivey was 84th. (FTs new ranking is out next week.) Story continues EXCITED ABOUT IVEYS COMMITMENT TO PEDAGOGY There are advantages to the change in scenery. LBS is an independent business school, unattached to a larger university, and If you want to teach about climate change, you dont have the environmental sciences. If you want to teach about artificial intelligence, you dont have computer scientists. Im excited Ivey is part of a full-fledged university, with experts in these areas, Birkinshaw says. It was as a student at Ivey that Birkinshaw first became a believer in innovation and agility, according to the Ivey news release, which he sees as key to the future of business education. Thats evident in his track record: At LBS, he helped steer the creation of the schools masters in management program in 2010 and a masters in analytics management in 2019. Birkinshaw is also credited with leading the schools digital development in the years leading up to 2020, helping to create a suite of online courses that kept LBS students learning in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic driven by his belief that B-schools must embrace, and lead, change in a time of rapid disruption. Now he takes that belief across the Atlantic, where Ivey, which uses case-based teaching, presents what he calls opportunities to evolve the world of business education. Birkinshaws new academic home, which recently celebrated its centennial and is currently rolling out major changes as part of a new strategic plan, is in a better place to deliver because the school has always been about leadership, he says. Using the case method puts the student in the shoes of the decision-maker, asking them to take on the complexities of being a leader. What excites me most about Ivey is what I experienced in terms of my learning about the business world a commitment to a pedagogy that helps people understand the world of business properly, and to good quality research, which also influences the world of practice. Those are values Ive held and pushed for throughout my career and are central to what Ivey has always done. Nor does the prospect of being at a smaller school, in a much smaller town, trouble Birkinshaw. Im eager to help consolidate Iveys position as the number-one business school in Canada, he says, and to raise its prominence globally. Ivey really helped shape my worldview, so the opportunity to help craft the schools next stage of development is hugely exciting. WE NEED STUDENTS WHO UNDERSTAND THE WAY BUSINESS IMPACTS THE WORLD In December 2023, as the new year loomed, Birkinshaw shared with P&Q his hopes for 2024: The economic, geopolitical and environmental challenges witnessed in 2023 are showing no signs of abating. Consequently, the overall landscape in which business schools will be operating in 2024 is likely to remain unsettled. The global cost of living crisis is still biting for many. Conflicts are fuelling humanitarian crises on a significant scale. Extreme weather events across the globe are demonstrating the climate emergency. All will continue to demand attention in 2024. Our students are the business leaders of tomorrow. We need to help them make sense of the pressing issues facing society sustainability, social inequality, technological disruption and give them the tools to help them find solutions. We also need to instil a sense of ambition in them a courage to take responsibility for what needs to be done, rather than allowing others to set the agenda. In short, we want our students to become positive agents of change. We need leaders who understand the way business impacts the world and are willing to be part of the solution. After all, there is no Planet B. Birkinshaw has touched on these issues throughout his career, including during a fireside chat as part of P&Qs CentreCourt event in June 2023. In a discussion with Matt Symonds, he spoke at length about how B-school students can change the world for the better. Watch the interview below. Fireside Chat With London Business School Leadership DONT MISS WHAT WILL B-SCHOOLS PRIORITIZE IN THE NEW YEAR? THESE PREDICTIONS OFFER LOTS OF CLUES and MEET IVEYS MBA CLASS OF 2024 The post London (Ontario) Calling: Canadas Ivey School Picks LBSs Julian Birkinshaw As Next Dean appeared first on Poets&Quants. EU court rejects TikTok bid to suspend tough curbs Brussels, Feb 9 (AFP) Feb 09, 2024 TikTok on Friday lost a court bid to suspend strict new EU rules designating it a market "gatekeeper", pending a final ruling on the video-sharing app's legal challenge to the law. The landmark European Union law would force the largest tech firms to change their ways under a checklist of dos and don'ts and, regulators hope, create a fairer market. Coming into force next month, the Digital Markets Act (DMA) designates six "gatekeepers" facing the curbs: Google parent Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Meta, Microsoft -- and ByteDance, the only non-US company. TikTok filed a legal challenge against its designation in November. The platform owned by China's ByteDance asked the Luxembourg-based General Court last year to suspend its obligation to comply with the DMA while its case is ongoing. "ByteDance has failed to demonstrate the urgency required for an interim order in order to avoid serious and irreparable damage," the court said in a statement. The company had argued that complying with the "contested decision risks causing the disclosure of highly strategic information concerning TikTok's user profiling practices, which is not otherwise in the public domain", the court added. TikTok did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The DMA also identified 22 "core" platforms provided by companies including Facebook, Instagram and several Alphabet products including YouTube. TikTok is not the only firm that is challenging the EU in the courts over the labels. Meta is also contesting the designation of its instant messenger service Messenger as a "core platform service", and its Facebook Marketplace. TikTok and Meta this week also said they would sue the EU over a fee that the world's biggest tech companies must pay under a content moderation law. raz/ec/js Meta Meta reviewing use of word 'Zionist' amid Israel-Hamas war San Francisco, Feb 9 (AFP) Feb 09, 2024 Meta on Friday confirmed it is assessing when the word "Zionist" should be deemed hate speech as online anti-Semitism escalates amid the Israel-Hamas war. The tech titan behind Facebook and Instagram confirmed a Washington Post report that it is thinking of expanding its hate speech ban to include more uses of the term, particularly when it appears to be an ill-spirited substitute for "Jews" or "Israelis." "Given the increase in polarized public discourse due to events in the Middle East, we believe it's important to assess our guidance for reviewing posts that use the term Zionist," a Meta spokesperson said in response to an AFP query. "While the term Zionist often refers to a person's ideology, which is not a protected characteristic, it can also be used to refer to Jewish or Israeli people." Meta policy bans attacks on people based on religion or nationality, meaning the company faces the challenge of distinguishing when "Zionist" refers to ideology or a group of people. Meta is honing how it applies the hate speech ban to posts with that word, according to the company. The Silicon Valley-based social media giant must be careful that content policies are not biased against pro-Palestinian voices speaking out against the war, said Amnesty International researcher and advisor Alia Al Ghussain. A blanket ban on criticism of "Zionism" or "Zionists" on Meta platforms would restrict free speech of those trying to call attention to "atrocity crimes committed by Israeli forces in Gaza," Al Ghussain said in a statement. "This proposed revision is especially disturbing given the current dire situation in the Gaza Strip," Al Ghussain said of Meta's internal review. Strikes on Gaza's Rafah as Biden calls Israel actions excessive Gaza Strip, Palestinian Territories, Feb 9 (AFP) Feb 09, 2024 Israel launched new air strikes Friday on the city of Rafah in Gaza's far south, after US President Joe Biden said its response to Hamas's October 7 attack has been "over the top". Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said he has ordered Israeli forces to "prepare to operate" in Rafah, the last major city in the Gaza Strip that Israeli ground troops have yet to attack. The United States is Israel's main international ally, providing it with billions of dollars in military aid. The State Department said Thursday it did not support a ground offensive in Rafah, warning that, if not properly planned, such an operation in a city sheltering more than one million displaced Palestinians risked "disaster". And in a rare rebuke from its ally, Biden said Israel's military response to the October 7 attack had been excessive and should stop. "I'm of the view, as you know, that the conduct of the response in Gaza, in the Gaza Strip, has been over the top," he told reporters at the White House. "There are a lot of innocent people who are starving, a lot of innocent people who are in trouble and dying, and it's got to stop." Witnesses reported fresh strikes on Rafah overnight, after the Israeli military stepped up air raids on a city now overcrowded with about half of the Gaza Strip's 2.4 million people. - 'Die in our homes' - The Hamas-run territory's health ministry said more than 100 people were killed in the bombardment during the night, including at least eight in Rafah. The Palestinian Red Crescent Society said three children were killed in a strike on Rafah. "We heard the sound of a huge explosion next to our house... we found two children martyred in the street," said Jaber al-Bardini, a 60-year-old in Rafah. "There is no safe place in Rafah. If they storm Rafah we will die in our homes. We have no choice. We don't want to go anywhere else." The Israeli army said Friday that its forces had "eliminated 15 terrorists" in the past day in Khan Yunis, southern Gaza's biggest city not far from Rafah. It also reported fighting in central and northern Gaza. Hamas's unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7 resulted in the deaths of about 1,160 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. In response, Israel vowed to eradicate Hamas and launched air strikes and a ground offensive that have killed at least 27,947 people, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory. Militants seized 250 hostages, 132 of whom are still in Gaza, but 29 are presumed dead, Israel has said. - 'Humanitarian nightmare' - State Department deputy spokesman Vedant Patel said Washington had "yet to see any evidence of serious planning" for an Israeli ground operation in Rafah. Noting the city on the border with Egypt was also a crucial entry point for humanitarian aid, he added such an assault was "not something we'd support". "To conduct such an operation right now with no planning and little thought... would be a disaster," Patel said. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, on his fifth crisis tour of the Middle East since the war erupted, had conveyed Washington's concerns to Netanyahu directly during talks this week in Jerusalem, he added. UN chief Antonio Guterres said news of the coming Israeli push into Rafah was "alarming", and warned it "would exponentially increase what is already a humanitarian nightmare". UN rights chief Volker Turk, meanwhile, charged that Israel was committing a "war crime" with its reported destruction of buildings to create a "buffer zone" along the border inside Gaza. Israel's "extensive destruction of property, not justified by military necessity and carried out unlawfully and wantonly, amounts to a grave breach of the Fourth Geneva Convention, and a war crime", he said. - Ceasefire talks - On the ceasefire talks, Blinken insisted he still saw "space for agreement to be reached" to halt the fighting and bring home Israeli hostages, even after Netanyahu rejected what he labelled Hamas's "bizarre demands". Egypt was set to host new talks with Qatari and Hamas negotiators in hopes of achieving "calm" in Gaza and a prisoner-hostage exchange, an Egyptian official said. A Gaza-based Palestinian official close to the militant group later told AFP they expected negotiations to be "difficult", but said Hamas was "keen to reach a ceasefire". The impact of the war has been felt widely, with violence involving Iran-backed allies of Hamas across the Middle East surging since October and drawing in US forces among others. Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah movement said Friday it had fired "dozens of Katyusha rockets" into northern Israel shortly before midnight (2100 GMT on Thursday) in response to Israeli attacks on southern Lebanon, including the city of Nabatiyeh. It came after an Israeli drone strike on a car in Nabatiyeh seriously wounded a Hezbollah commander on Thursday, sources on both sides of the border said. On the same day, the US military struck four unmanned surface vessels and seven mobile anti-ship cruise missiles that it said Yemen's Iran-backed Huthi rebels had been set to launch against ships in the Red Sea. The strike came after US forces last week launched a wave of attacks on Iran-linked targets in Iraq and Syria following the killing of three US troops in neighbouring Jordan. burs-dv/ami First Russian tourists post-Covid arrive in Pyongyang Seoul, Feb 9 (AFP) Feb 09, 2024 A group of Russian tourists arrived in Pyongyang on Friday, AFP reporters saw, the first known foreign tour group to visit nuclear-armed North Korea since before pandemic-linked border closures. AFP video and photographs showed Russian tourists arriving at Pyongyang airport, wandering around the airport and smiling as they took pictures, with the arrivals board showing the flight details. The move comes as Moscow and Pyongyang bolster ties, with North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un making a rare overseas trip to meet President Vladimir Putin in the Russian Far East last September. South Korea and Washington have subsequently claimed the North has shipped weapons to Moscow for use in Ukraine, which would violate a raft of UN sanctions on both countries, the North for its banned weapons programmes and Russia for the war with Kyiv. Natalia Zinina, a manager at Vostok Intur tour agency which organised the trip, told Seoul-based specialist site NK News that the tour group would visit the North from February 9 to 12. The group will be "first stopping in Pyongyang before traveling to the Masikryong Ski Resort near the city of Wonsan on the country's east coast," the report said. A total of 97 Russian nationals are expected to join the four-day trip. It has become harder for Russians to travel to Europe and the United States since sanctions were imposed following the invasion of Ukraine, and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov -- who has also visited Pyongyang -- said last year that the North could be recommended as a tourist destination, Tass reported. The Russians are believed to be the first group of foreign tourists to enter the North since the country reopened its border in August last year, after nearly four years of pandemic-linked border closures. "This example highlights the revitalisation of exchange and cooperation in various fields between the two countries following the North Korea-Russia summit," Yang Moo-jin, president of the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul, told AFP, referring to Putin and Kim's meeting last year. "It particularly suggests an intent to pave the way for Putin's visit to North Korea," he said. "There is a likelihood of Russia providing humanitarian aid, including food, to North Korea in the near future. North Korea is also likely to speed up and expand the scope of its support, including missiles, to Russia," he added. Nuclear-armed North Korea has this year declared Seoul its "principal enemy", closed agencies dedicated to reunification and outreach, and threatened war over "even 0.001 millimetres" of territorial infringement. Analysts have warned recently that Pyongyang could be testing cruise missiles ahead of sending them to Russia for use in Ukraine. Iraq's Kataeb Hezbollah rebukes US for strikes Baghdad, Feb 9 (AFP) Feb 09, 2024 Iraqi armed group Kataeb Hezbollah lashed out at the United States on Friday for strikes it carried out in the country, including one that killed a senior commander in the group. On Wednesday evening, a drone strike in Baghdad killed Abu Baqir al-Saadi, accused by the US military of being "responsible for directly planning and participating in attacks on US forces" in the Middle East. It came after Washington launched multiple strikes in Iraq and Syria last week against elite Iranian forces and pro-Tehran armed groups in retaliation for a January 28 drone strike that killed three US military personnel in Jordan. Since mid-October, pro-Iran armed groups have launched dozens of rocket and drone attacks against US and other international anti-jihadist coalition forces in Iraq and Syria. "For the blood of our commanders and fighters that was spilt, the responsibility lies with America and those who refuse or hinder the departure of its occupying forces from Iraq," Kataeb Hezbollah said in a statement. "Let them know that our nation will not forsake the blood of its martyrs, and that its men remain determined for combat," the group added. More than 165 attacks have been launched against US troops in Iraq and Syria since mid-October, following the start of the Israel-Hamas war. The majority of those attacks have been claimed by the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, a loose alliance of Iran-backed groups, including Kataeb Hezbollah, angered by US support for Israel. Kataeb Hezbollah, classed as a terrorist organisation by Washington, is subject to sanctions and has been struck multiple times by the United States military. US officials have said the attack in Jordan bore "the hallmark" of Kataeb Hezbollah. With the United States promising reprisals for the death of its soldiers, Kataeb Hezbollah announced at the end of January that it had suspended operations against US forces. Baghdad, angered by multiple US strikes in recent months, said talks with Washington would resume on Sunday to discuss the future of the coalition's presence in Iraq. Iraq's government has repeatedly called for their departure in recent weeks. The international force was deployed to Iraq at the government's request in 2014 to help combat the Islamic State group, which had taken over vast swathes of Iraq and neighbouring Syria. The United States currently has around 2,500 troops deployed in Iraq. Key Insights The projected fair value for Premier Investments is AU$35.05 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity Premier Investments' AU$28.23 share price indicates it is trading at similar levels as its fair value estimate Analyst price target for PMV is AU$27.09 which is 23% below our fair value estimate How far off is Premier Investments Limited (ASX:PMV) from its intrinsic value? Using the most recent financial data, we'll take a look at whether the stock is fairly priced by projecting its future cash flows and then discounting them to today's value. Our analysis will employ the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Models like these may appear beyond the comprehension of a lay person, but they're fairly easy to follow. We would caution that there are many ways of valuing a company and, like the DCF, each technique has advantages and disadvantages in certain scenarios. 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 Premier Investments The Model We're using the 2-stage growth model, which simply means we take in account two stages of company's growth. In the initial period the company may have a higher growth rate and the second stage is usually assumed to have a stable growth rate. To begin with, we have to get estimates of the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years. Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, so we discount the value of these future cash flows to their estimated value in today's dollars: Story continues 10-year free cash flow (FCF) estimate 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (A$, Millions) AU$370.2m AU$378.8m AU$398.3m AU$414.3m AU$307.2m AU$297.8m AU$293.3m AU$292.2m AU$293.2m AU$295.9m Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x4 Analyst x4 Analyst x3 Analyst x2 Analyst x2 Est @ -3.07% Est @ -1.50% Est @ -0.40% Est @ 0.37% Est @ 0.90% Present Value (A$, Millions) Discounted @ 7.0% AU$346 AU$331 AU$325 AU$316 AU$219 AU$199 AU$183 AU$170 AU$160 AU$151 ("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St) Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = AU$2.4b 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 2.2%. 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) = AU$296m (1 + 2.2%) (7.0% 2.2%) = AU$6.3b Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= AU$6.3b ( 1 + 7.0%)10= AU$3.2b The total value is the sum of cash flows for the next ten years plus the discounted terminal value, which results in the Total Equity Value, which in this case is AU$5.6b. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of AU$28.2, the company appears about fair value at a 19% discount to where the stock price trades currently. Valuations are imprecise instruments though, rather like a telescope - move a few degrees and end up in a different galaxy. Do keep this in mind. dcf Important Assumptions 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 Premier Investments 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 1.049. 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 Premier Investments 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 Specialty Retail market. Opportunity Annual earnings are forecast to grow for the next 3 years. Current share price is below our estimate of fair value. Threat Annual earnings are forecast to grow slower than the Australian market. Next Steps: Whilst important, the DCF calculation ideally won't be the sole piece of analysis you scrutinize for a company. The DCF model is not a perfect stock valuation tool. Preferably you'd apply different cases and assumptions and see how they would impact the company's valuation. For example, changes in the company's cost of equity or the risk free rate can significantly impact the valuation. For Premier Investments, we've compiled three fundamental factors you should assess: Financial Health: Does PMV have a healthy balance sheet? Take a look at our free balance sheet analysis with six simple checks on key factors like leverage and risk. Future Earnings: How does PMV's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other High Quality Alternatives: Do you like a good all-rounder? Explore our interactive list of high quality stocks to get an idea of what else is out there you may be missing! PS. The Simply Wall St app conducts a discounted cash flow valuation for every stock on the ASX every day. If you want to find the calculation for other stocks just search here. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Argentina relaxes use of firearms by police Buenos Aires, Feb 9 (AFP) Feb 09, 2024 Argentine President Javier Milei's government on Friday relaxed the rules around the use of firearms by security forces, allowing them to shoot someone to prevent a serious crime, or in self-defense. In recent years, security forces "have risked their lives in a way that has reached a limit," said Security Minister Patricia Bullrich, unveiling the new protocol on Thursday, which was published in the government gazette Friday. "We need to protect those who protect us." Bullrich, known for being tough on crime, has in fact reintroduced rules she first brought in during a previous stint as security minister in 2018. She did so after a policeman was charged in the 2017 death of an 18-year-old thief who was shot in the back by police while fleeing after mugging a tourist in Buenos Aires. The officer was later found guilty of homicide and sentenced to two years in jail in 2021. The re-introduced measures allow the legitimate use of firearms "when other non-violent means are ineffective", "in cases of self-defense or defense of others, and imminent danger of death or serious injury." Security officers can also shoot "to prevent the commission of a particularly serious offense which represents an imminent danger to life or physical integrity." The measures had been scrapped by the center-left government that took office in 2019 and replaced with rules obliging security forces to act "proportionally" when faced with a threat while "respecting and protecting human life." Milei, 53, is a libertarian outsider and political newcomer who swept to the presidency on a wave of anger by Argentines furious with an economic crisis, and worsening crime. Bullrich said the protocol will apply with immediate effect to nautical police, particularly on river borders in the north of the country where they are often faced with organized crime. They will also be equipped with heavy weapons, she said. Details on the rollout to other security agencies will be announced soon. Sabina Frederic, the security minister who in 2019 ditched the measures, slammed the protocol as one which "enables the trigger-happy,", and gives the police, rather than the courts, the right to "define what is or is not a crime." Hebron, Palestinian Territories (AFP) Feb 6, 2024 Rotating cameras planted on a rooftop terrace "follow our every move", said Hebron resident Umm Nasser, protesting intensified Israeli surveillance of her occupied West Bank city since the start of the Gaza war. Taipei (AFP) Feb 7, 2024 Taiwan ordered on Wednesday travel agencies to stop organising group tours to China following Beijing's adjustment of an aviation route that drew ire on the self-ruled island. Tbilisi (AFP) Feb 6, 2024 Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili on Tuesday denounced a reported Russian plan to set up a navy base in the breakaway Abkhazia region as a threat to security in the Black Sea. Karachi (AFP) Feb 6, 2024 As waves from the Arabian Sea crash into the shores of Pakistan's port city of Karachi, election candidate Ahmad Shabbar tells voters a list of growing but often ignored climate threats. Budapest (AFP) Feb 5, 2024 Hungary's ruling party on Monday boycotted a parliament session on Sweden's NATO membership, postponing a vote by the last alliance member to approve the expansion of the alliance despite US pressure. Male, Maldives (AFP) Feb 5, 2024 The small but strategically placed Maldives will strengthen its military to defend its vast maritime territory, the new president vowed Monday after ordering Indian troops to withdraw from the archipelago. Tehran (AFP) Feb 5, 2024 Iran said Monday it "will not hesitate" to respond in the event of US attacks on its territory after the White House declined to say whether strikes on Iran were ruled out. United Nations, United States (AFP) Feb 5, 2024 The UN Security Council was to convene Monday at Russia's demand to discuss US air strikes on Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria in retaliation for a deadly drone attack on American soldiers. Washington DC (UPI) Feb 5, 2024 Secretary of State Antony Blinken traveled to the Middle East for a four-day trip aimed at freeing the remaining hostages in Gaza and to seek an extended pause in the Israel-Hamas war. United Nations, United States (AFP) Feb 6, 2024 Russia and China accused the United States during a UN Security Council meeting on Monday of stoking already high tensions in the Middle East with its recent retaliatory strikes on Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria. Washington (AFP) Feb 5, 2024 The United States did not notify the Iraqi government in advance of recent strikes against pro-Iranian targets in the country, the State Department said Monday, clarifying White House statements suggesting otherwise. Baghdad (AFP) Feb 5, 2024 Iraq is working for regional "de-escalation", Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani said Monday as he welcomed a senior Iranian security official to Baghdad, with tensions high over US strikes in the country and the war in Gaza. Gaza Strip, Palestinian Territories (AFP) Feb 5, 2024 US Secretary of State Antony Blinken kicked off Monday a Middle East tour seeking a new truce and "an enduring end" to the Israel-Hamas war, as Gaza saw no let-up in fighting. Washington (AFP) Feb 3, 2024 Will the increasingly intense US military strikes in Iraq and Syria deter pro-Iranian militants there from launching new attacks? Washington (AFP) Feb 5, 2024 American forces carried out air strikes against five missiles in Yemen on Sunday - one designed for land attack and the others for targeting ships, the US military said. Baghdad (AFP) Feb 4, 2024 The head of Iraq's pro-Iran Hashed al-Shaabi alliance on Sunday demanded the withdrawal of US-led coalition forces from the country following deadly strikes. Sanaa (AFP) Feb 4, 2024 Yemen's Huthis said Sunday US and British air strikes "will not deter us" and vowed a response after dozens of targets were hit in retaliation for the Iran-backed rebels' repeated Red Sea attacks. Seoul (AFP) Feb 4, 2024 Russia's deputy foreign minister Andrey Rudenko visited South Korea to discuss the Ukrainian war and bilateral ties, Seoul's foreign ministry said Sunday, as the two countries trade increasingly heated rhetoric over the nuclear-armed North. Hong Kong (AFP) Feb 4, 2024 Scammers tricked a multinational firm out of some $26 million by impersonating senior executives using deepfake technology, Hong Kong police said Sunday, in one of the first cases of its kind in the city. Damascus (AFP) Feb 3, 2024 Damascus said Saturday that US occupation of Syrian territory "cannot continue" after Washington carried out deadly strikes in retaliation for a drone attack that killed three US soldiers in Jordan. Paris (AFP) Feb 8, 2024 Earth has endured 12 months of temperatures 1.5C hotter than the pre-industrial era for the first time on record, Europe's climate monitor said Thursday, in what scientists called a "warning to humanity". Manila (AFP) Feb 8, 2024 Rescuers used their bare hands and shovels to dig through mud on Thursday in a desperate search for survivors of a landslide in the Philippines as the death toll rose to 10, officials said. Vina Del Mar, Chile (AFP) Feb 7, 2024 Firefighters said Wednesday they had extinguished all wildfires in Chile's coastal region of Valparaiso, where flames razed entire communities and left 131 dead. Madrid (AFP) Feb 7, 2024 Spain has just experienced its warmest January since current records began in 1961, national weather office Aemet said Wednesday, after temperatures neared 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) in some regions. Reykjavik (AFP) Feb 8, 2024 A volcanic eruption started on the Reykjanes peninsula in southwestern Iceland on Thursday, the third to hit the area since December, authorities said. Washington (AFP) Feb 7, 2024 President Joe Biden's administration on Wednesday announced tough new air quality standards it said were sorely needed to protect the health of vulnerable communities, though industry groups have said the move would harm domestic manufacturing. Canberra (AFP) Feb 8, 2024 Papua New Guinea's prime minister on Thursday became the first Pacific Island leader ever to address Australia's parliament, vowing close ties despite ever-louder overtures from China. Hangzhou, China (AFP) Feb 8, 2024 Sparklers, rockets and spinning sunflowers with flammable petals - the fireworks stores in China's Hangzhou are stuffed with treats for pyrotechnic-loving customers, who count themselves lucky to live somewhere they are allowed to set them off. Paris (AFP) Feb 7, 2024 The International Criminal Court's chief prosecutor told AFP on Wednesday that he wants the tribunal to start trying suspects for "environmental crimes" without having to modify its founding statutes. Tbilisi (AFP) Feb 7, 2024 At least six people were killed and three were missing after a landslide in western Georgia, officials said on Wednesday. Rome (AFP) Feb 7, 2024 A brown bear deemed "dangerous" to hikers has been culled in the northern Italian Alps, according to authorities, a decision denounced by an animal rights group. Key Insights Boustead Singapore's estimated fair value is S$0.75 based on Dividend Discount Model With S$0.86 share price, Boustead Singapore appears to be trading close to its estimated fair value Boustead Singapore's peers seem to be trading at a higher premium to fair value based onthe industry average of -20% Today we will run through one way of estimating the intrinsic value of Boustead Singapore Limited (SGX:F9D) by estimating the company's future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. We will take advantage of the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model for this purpose. There's really not all that much to it, even though it might appear quite complex. Remember though, that there are many ways to estimate a company's value, and a DCF is just one method. Anyone interested in learning a bit more about intrinsic value should have a read of the Simply Wall St analysis model. See our latest analysis for Boustead Singapore The Model As Boustead Singapore operates in the construction sector, we need to calculate the intrinsic value slightly differently. In this approach dividends per share (DPS) are used, as free cash flow is difficult to estimate and often not reported by analysts. This often underestimates the value of a stock, but it can still be good as a comparison to competitors. We use the Gordon Growth Model, which assumes dividend will grow into perpetuity at a rate that can be sustained. The dividend is expected to grow at an annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 2.1%. We then discount this figure to today's value at a cost of equity of 7.4%. Compared to the current share price of S$0.9, the company appears around fair value at the time of writing. Remember though, that this is just an approximate valuation, and like any complex formula - garbage in, garbage out. Value Per Share = Expected Dividend Per Share / (Discount Rate - Perpetual Growth Rate) Story continues = S$0.04 / (7.4% 2.1%) = S$0.8 dcf Important Assumptions We would point out that the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate and of course the actual cash flows. If you don't agree with these result, have a go at the calculation yourself and play with the assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Boustead Singapore 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 1.158. 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 Boustead Singapore 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 Construction market. Expensive based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value. Opportunity Annual earnings are forecast to grow for the next 3 years. Threat No apparent threats visible for F9D. Moving On: Valuation is only one side of the coin in terms of building your investment thesis, and it ideally won't be the sole piece of analysis you scrutinize for a company. DCF models are not the be-all and end-all of investment valuation. Preferably you'd apply different cases and assumptions and see how they would impact the company's valuation. For instance, if the terminal value growth rate is adjusted slightly, it can dramatically alter the overall result. For Boustead Singapore, we've put together three important elements you should further research: Risks: For example, we've discovered 1 warning sign for Boustead Singapore that you should be aware of before investing here. Future Earnings: How does F9D'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. But he said that while the rebound had been strong, there was still room for further growth in London. Many in the luxury retail sector have warned that the removal of VAT-free shopping for international travellers, often called the tourist tax, has been holding London back when compared with rivals on the continent. Wazacz says he believed that scrapping the tax would create enough new economic activity to offset the loss in revenues that would come from its removal. "We carried out fast-time enquiries to identify him and ensure officers were waiting for him. Our investigation means he has been convicted and will now face the consequences of his actions." We should invest in collecting relevant data and improving estimation of how close a tipping point is, improving assessment of what its impacts would be, and getting pre-prepared for how we could best manage and adapt to those impacts if they start to unfold. He told the briefing: Were always happy to work with the Government on anything and while, as the Bishop of Chelmsford has said, actual decisions on asylum are for the Home Office or, if contested, then for the relevant courts nonetheless, if the Home Office wants to work with the Church of England on any matter like this well happily engage with them. Key Insights The projected fair value for Centurion is S$0.35 based on Dividend Discount Model Centurion's S$0.39 share price indicates it is trading at similar levels as its fair value estimate Our fair value estimate is 39% lower than Centurion's analyst price target of S$0.57 Today we'll do a simple run through of a valuation method used to estimate the attractiveness of Centurion Corporation Limited (SGX:OU8) as an investment opportunity by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to today's value. Our analysis will employ the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. It may sound complicated, but actually it is quite simple! We would caution that there are many ways of valuing a company and, like the DCF, each technique has advantages and disadvantages in certain scenarios. For those who are keen learners of equity analysis, the Simply Wall St analysis model here may be something of interest to you. See our latest analysis for Centurion The Method As Centurion operates in the real estate sector, we need to calculate the intrinsic value slightly differently. In this approach dividends per share (DPS) are used, as free cash flow is difficult to estimate and often not reported by analysts. Unless a company pays out the majority of its FCF as a dividend, this method will typically underestimate the value of the stock. We use the Gordon Growth Model, which assumes dividend will grow into perpetuity at a rate that can be sustained. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a company's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In this case we used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (2.1%). The expected dividend per share is then discounted to today's value at a cost of equity of 8.3%. Relative to the current share price of S$0.4, the company appears around fair value at the time of writing. The assumptions in any calculation have a big impact on the valuation, so it is better to view this as a rough estimate, not precise down to the last cent. Story continues Value Per Share = Expected Dividend Per Share / (Discount Rate - Perpetual Growth Rate) = S$0.02 / (8.3% 2.1%) = S$0.3 dcf Important Assumptions Now the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate, and of course, the actual cash flows. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Centurion as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 8.3%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.349. 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 Centurion Strength Debt is well covered by earnings. 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 Real Estate market. Opportunity Annual revenue is forecast to grow faster than the Singaporean market. Good value based on P/E ratio compared to estimated Fair P/E ratio. Threat Debt is not well covered by operating cash flow. Annual earnings are forecast to grow slower than the Singaporean market. Next Steps: Whilst important, the DCF calculation 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. 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 Centurion, there are three additional aspects you should look at: Risks: Case in point, we've spotted 2 warning signs for Centurion you should be aware of, and 1 of them shouldn't be ignored. Future Earnings: How does OU8'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. She called their experience "horrific", and said: "We feel our experience was psychologically traumatic enough that we would not wish for anyone in our situation to go through this. Especially anyone within the LGBTQIA+." The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said Friday that the overall Palestinian death toll is now approaching 28,000, with about two-thirds women and children. The count does not distinguish between civilians and combatants. Deputies were able to figure out the animal's owner and reunite them after checking for its proper registration, the agency said in a Facebook post. While it is for Government to speak to its rationale for making this particular decision, we firmly believe in the importance of freedom of expression, including artistic expression, and look forward to discussing further with Government how any decisions involving potentially controversial matters will be handled in future. Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon.com Inc., has made the strategic decision to sell up to 50 million shares of Amazon stock, a move that comes amid his transition from Seattle to Miami. The decision, detailed in a regulatory filing, outlines a trading plan set to conclude by Jan. 31, 2025. Bezoss relocation is not only a financial maneuver but also a personal decision, influenced by family ties and business operations. In an Instagram post, Bezos shared the emotional weight behind his move, emphasizing the significance of family and professional considerations. My parents have always been my biggest supporters. They recently moved back to Miami, the place we lived when I was younger (Miami Palmetto High Class of 82 GO Panthers!)," Bezos said. "I want to be close to my parents, and Lauren [Sanchez] and I love Miami." Don't Miss: Investing in real estate just got a whole lot simpler. This Jeff Bezos-backed startup will allow you to become a landlord in just 10 minutes, and you only need $100. Miami is expected to take New York's place as the U.S. Financial Capital. Here's how you can invest in the city with as little as $500 before that happens. The relocation comes after his engagement to Sanchez last year, following his divorce from MacKenzie Scott in 2019. Bezos also highlighted the strategic importance of Florida for his aerospace venture, Blue Origin. "Also, Blue Origins operations are increasingly shifting to Cape Canaveral," he said. "For all that, Im planning to return to Miami, leaving the Pacific Northwest." Blue Origin has been expanding its footprint in Cape Canaveral since 2015, marking a significant pivot in its operations toward the Atlantic coast. Reflecting on his time in Seattle, Bezos expressed a sentimental attachment to the city where Amazon was born. "Ive lived in Seattle longer than Ive lived anywhere else and have so many amazing memories here," he said. Despite the excitement of a new chapter in Miami, he acknowledged the emotional complexity of the move, saying, "As exciting as the move is, its an emotional decision for me. Seattle, you will always have a piece of my heart." Story continues The financial implications of Bezoss relocation are profound, given Washingtons recent implementation of a 7% capital gains tax, from which Bezos will now be exempt in Florida. Amazons stock, valued at approximately $169 per share, means Bezoss holdings could be worth around $8.5 billion. This move could result in a significant loss of potential capital gains tax revenue for Washington, estimated at approximately $595 million from Bezos alone. The revenue from Washington's capital gains tax is intended to support educational programs, highlighting the interconnectedness of individual financial decisions, state policies and public services. While Bezos has invested $147 million in Florida real estate over the last year, this move will enable him to save over half a billion dollars in taxes. Regardless of whether his decision is driven by a fondness for Florida, a wish to be closer to his parents or strategic business considerations, the financial benefit of the tax savings is significant. Read Next: Collecting passive income from real estate just got a whole lot simpler. A new real estate fund backed by Jeff Bezos gives you instant access to a diversified portfolio of rental properties, and you only need $100 to get started. Passive income investments are one of the most trusted methods for riding out a recession, so it's no surprise that people are turning to this multifamily portfolio fund that's targeting an 8% cash yield. "ACTIVE INVESTORS' SECRET WEAPON" Supercharge Your Stock Market Game with the #1 "news & everything else" trading tool: Benzinga Pro - Click here to start Your 14-Day Trial Now! Get the latest stock analysis from Benzinga? This article 'I Love Miami' Jeff Bezos Plans To Unload A Massive Amount Of Amazon Shares, But Moving To Florida Will Save Him $600 Million In Taxes originally appeared on Benzinga.com 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved. The average retiree spends less money during their retirement years than they did when they were working. A recent Fidelity report found that those whove officially left the workforce behind spend anywhere from 55% to 80% of whatever annual salary they had while working. The exact percentage, of course, depends on things like their original income, healthcare expenses and any lifestyle changes they make. See: 6 Frugal Living Tips Retirees Should Avoid in 2024 Also: Owe Money to the IRS? Most People Dont Realize They Should Do This One Thing To dive further into how much retirees are actually spending, and on what, GOBankingRates reached out to retirement experts Dominic James Murray and Jeff Rose for their insight. Heres what they said. Sponsored: Owe the IRS $10K or more? Schedule a FREE consultation to see if you qualify for tax relief. How Much Retirees Typically Spend Annually As a certified financial planner, Ive seen firsthand that theres no one-size-fits-all answer to how much individuals or couples spend in retirement, said Jeff Rose, CFP and founder of Good Financial Cents. It really depends on their lifestyle choices, health situation and where they live. Although numbers vary by household, there are some figures to give you a better idea of how much retirees tend to spend each year. From my experience and recent data, the average annual expenses for adults aged 65 and older tend to vary but offer a good benchmark for planning, said Dominic James Murray, CEO and independent financial advisor at Cameron James. According to The Motley Fool, the average annual expenditure for this age group is around $48,872, continued Murray. Another source, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, indicates that people aged 65 and older spent an average of $52,141 in 2021, which is about $14,000 less than the average spending of the general population. These are just averages, though. Some retirees live quite comfortably on less, especially if theyve paid off their mortgage and lead a more modest lifestyle, said Rose. On the other hand, if youre dreaming of lots of travel or live in a city with a high cost of living, your expenses could be higher. Story continues Discover: 7 Places To Retire That Are Just Like Tropical Vacations but Way Cheaper What Are Retirees Spending Their Money On? When it comes to what retiree households are actually buying, here are the most common expenses, according to Murray and Rose. Health-related Expenses Healthcare costs, which can include prescription medications, insurance and other treatments not covered by insurance, are a major expense during retirement. As we grow older, the need for medical attention naturally increases, leading to higher expenses in this category. In my practice, I stress the importance of anticipating these costs in retirement planning, said Murray. Rose added, Things like insurance, medications and regular check-ups can add up. The Fidelity Retiree Health Care Cost Estimate suggests a couple retiring at 65 might need about $315,000 saved just for healthcare expenses. Thats not to say that all retirees are going to have the same healthcare expenses, of course. Individuals who have fewer health-related issues are less likely to spend as much money during retirement on this expense. But to be on the safe side, Murray suggested setting aside money for healthcare costs and investing in assets that provide a safety net to reduce the burden of medical expenses. Food and Dining Groceries and dining out are also major expenses both before and during retirement. While this might not change drastically, retirees do spend a good chunk of their budget on food, whether its grocery shopping or dining out, said Rose. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average retiree household spends between $4,349 and $6,800 on food each year. Murray suggested that retirees should adjust their budgets to accommodate these costs while also exploring investment returns that can supplement their income. This helps ensure that they can continue to afford this everyday expense and any related social outings without stressing about their finances. Housing and Utilities Even if you no longer have to pay rent or a mortgage, housing and utilities are still two big expenses that can really add up. Maintaining a home remains a considerable expense during retirement. Whether it involves mortgage payments, rent or ongoing maintenance and utility costs, these expenses require careful management, said Murray. I often counsel retirees on strategies such as downsizing or investing in low-maintenance properties, ensuring that their housing costs align with their retirement budget and lifestyle goals. Another housing-related expense is property taxes, which can fluctuate over the years. The average retiree spends around $17,798 on housing, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Those who have ongoing costs like maintenance or rent may spend more than that. Along with this, Americans retiree or otherwise spend, on average, over $5,000 annually on utilities, as reported by Forbes. Travel and Leisure Travel, recreation and leisure are all activities that add to retiree households total amount of spending. While exact amounts vary widely, its still important to calculate and budget these in. Many retirees take this time to travel, pursue hobbies or indulge in leisure activities they didnt have time for before. Its about enjoying the freedom retirement brings, said Rose. Murray added that its important to establish an investment strategy that allows retirees to afford these things. Its about ensuring that they have the financial means to enjoy their travels and hobbies without compromising their overall financial health, said Murray. In addition to leisurely travel, theres also general transportation to consider. This may include a car payment. But it will very likely include things like gasoline, car insurance, routine maintenance and possibly even rideshare services. Gifts and Charitable Contributions Last but not least is gifts and charitable contributions. Many retirees wish to support their families or contribute to charities, a decision I deeply respect, said Murray. I advise balancing this generosity with financial security, ensuring they can give back without impacting their financial well-being. How much you spend on gifts and charitable contributions really depends on your lifestyle and goals. For example, you could find yourself spending more on gifts if you have a large family. Or you might dedicate a greater portion of your retirement income to charity if this is something you value deeply in your life. Bottom Line Retirement marks the beginning of a new chapter, where careful household spending can transform savings into a source of comfort and opportunity, said Murray. But ultimately, how much you end up spending in retirement might not be the same as the next person. In my practice, I emphasize that these numbers should serve as a guide rather than a strict rule, said Murray. Every individuals retirement journey is unique, influenced by their lifestyle choices, health situation and financial planning done during their working years. More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Im a Retirement Expert: This Is How Much Retiree Households Spend in a Year Textron Aviation, the general aviation business unit of the conglomerate Textron, plans to boost its relationship with longtime channel partner Wallan Group, a leader in the automotive sector in Saudi Arabia by setting up an authorised service facility for Beechcraft King Air turboprops. The Beechcraft King Air is designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation, company. "Wallan Group has a proven track record of providing quality maintenance and excellent service to our Cessna Citation customers," said Bob Gibbs, vice president, Special Mission Sales, Textron Aviation. Wallan Group has served as an authorized service facility for Cessna Citation jets since 2008. With Textron Aviations focused sales and support efforts in the Kingdom, the company looks forward to its continuing relationship with the Wallan Group and support of customers within the Kingdom. "With an established and growing base of King Air aircraft in the Kingdom, this latest authorization provides an even greater level of convenience and in-country support," he noted. "We inspire the journey of flight. For more than 95 years, Textron Aviation has empowered our collective talent across the Beechcraft, Cessna and Hawker brands to design and deliver the best aviation experience for our customers," he noted. With a range that includes everything from business jets, turboprops, and high-performance pistons, to special missions, military trainer and defense products, Textron Aviation has the most versatile and comprehensive aviation product portfolio in the world and a workforce that has produced more than half of all general aviation aircraft worldwide. "Customers in more than 170 countries rely on our legendary performance, reliability and versatility, along with our trusted global customer service network, for affordable, productive and flexible flight," he added.-TradeArabia News Service James Gantt, EVP, Professional Services at Manhattan Associates Inc (NASDAQ:MANH), sold 680 shares of the company on February 6, 2024, according to a recent SEC filing. The transaction was executed at an average price of $248.84 per share, resulting in a total sale amount of $169,211.20. Manhattan Associates Inc is a global provider of supply chain and omnichannel commerce solutions. The company's software, technology, and services are designed to help drive the digital transformation of supply chains, enhancing efficiency and customer satisfaction. Over the past year, the insider has sold a total of 9,722 shares of Manhattan Associates Inc and has not made any purchases of the stock. The recent sale further contributes to the trend observed over the past year, where there have been 16 insider sells and no insider buys. Manhattan Associates Inc EVP, Professional Services James Gantt Sells Company Shares On the valuation front, Manhattan Associates Inc's shares were trading at $248.84 on the day of the insider's sale, giving the company a market capitalization of $15.208 billion. The price-earnings ratio stands at 87.60, which is above both the industry median of 26.87 and the company's historical median price-earnings ratio. According to the GuruFocus Value chart, with a stock price of $248.84 and a GF Value of $209.14, Manhattan Associates Inc is currently rated as modestly overvalued, with a price-to-GF-Value ratio of 1.19. Manhattan Associates Inc EVP, Professional Services James Gantt Sells Company Shares The GF Value is calculated considering historical trading multiples, a GuruFocus adjustment factor based on past returns and growth, and future business performance estimates provided by Morningstar analysts. Investors and analysts often monitor insider selling as it can provide insights into an insider's perspective on the stock's current valuation. However, insider transactions are not always indicative of future stock performance and can be influenced by various factors, including personal financial needs. 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. The Ministry of Economy, Entrepreneurship and Tourism (MEAT) starts the national selection of localities that aspire to the title of Best Tourism Villages, with Romania to send to the World Tourism Organization (WTO) no more than 8 proposals for destinations tourism, which will compete with other destinations from around the world, the ministry announced on Friday. "The initiative is a precursor to the fourth edition of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) international competition, through which, annually, outstanding examples of rural tourism destinations are identified. Following the submission of applications and their evaluation, Romania will transmit to OMT no more than 8 proposals for tourist destinations, which will compete with other destinations from around the world," the press release states. According to the quoted source, the candidate locality must have a low population density and no more than 15,000 inhabitants, according to the last census, be located in a landscape with an important presence of traditional activities and share the values and lifestyle of the community. In the evaluation process, the following selection criteria will be scored: cultural and natural resources, promotion and conservation of cultural resources, economic, social and environmental sustainability, tourism development and value chain integration, tourism governance and prioritization, infrastructure and connectivity, health, safety and security, presentation materials (video, images). "The destinations from Romania that will participate in the world competition will have the chance to be designated Best Tourism Villages or to be included in the Upgrade Program, through which they will benefit from support from the WTO and partners to improve their fields of activity identified as less developed following the evaluation", the press release reads. According to the ministry, the destinations recognized as Best Tourism Villages, as well as those selected to participate in the Upgrade Program, will become members of a network that facilitates the exchange of information, experiences and best practices. The network also includes experts, public and private partners in the field of promoting tourism for rural development. Prime minister Marcel Ciolacu said on Friday, in Constanta, that when Romania joined the European Union it concluded agreements on territorial sovereignty and said that he understood "the manipulation that dictator Putin is doing" in the interview with American journalist Tucker Carlson. The head of the Government was asked by a journalist how he sees the statements of the president of Russia regarding Ukraine, that it is an artificial state, created with territories taken from other countries, including Romania. "Neither you nor I will ever influence history. I understand the manipulation that dictator Vladimir Putin is doing. When Romania joined the European Union, it concluded agreements because it was obliged, like all the member countries of the European Union, to conclude agreements regarding the territorial sovereignty and borders of each state. That's why I sometimes get upset when I hear, especially when the elections are coming, that story about the Hungarians or Hungarians who come and steal our Transylvania. Everyone who is in the European Union has signed these agreements. As for how Ukraine was formed, I tell you only one thing: Ukraine is a sovereign and independent state, and the Ukrainian people are sovereign to decide their destiny, as we decide ours. The aggressor in that war is Vladimir Putin. The rest, how do we want to present history and how to restore it as it suits us? You have lost me as a customer," said Ciolacu. Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu paid a visit to the Constanta Naval Shipyard on Friday, and at the end of the visit he made press statements. Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu in Constanta on Friday said that everybody should wait for a decision first in the international lawsuit with the Rosia Montana Gold Corporation, while adding that the Romanian state will be able to find a way no matter what the verdict will be, adding that he promises Romanians will find out the truth about this issue. The head of the Government was asked a question about the trial with Rosia Montana Gold Corporation. "Is there a decision? Let's wait. What I promise you is that we'll deal with it no matter if we lose or win. It's true, if we win it'll be easier. The second thing I promise you is that you will find out the whole truth, with documents, and all Romanians must know this truth, as I am firmly convinced that we will also find out the truth about vaccines. I kindly ask you to wait for the decision," said prime minister Marcel Ciolacu. He was also asked by a journalist if Romania has money to pay in case it loses the case. "And what should we do, lock up Romania and go home and run away everyone?! We'll find solutions. But come on, please, let's wait for a decision," replied the PM. The head of the Government was also asked by journalists what was his opinion, whether Romania will win or lose, and Marcel Ciolacu replied that he is a prime minister, neither a magistrate nor a lawyer and reiterated that a decision must be awaited in this case. Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu said two weeks ago that the Government was expecting a final decision in the Rosia Montana case on February 10 and was ready for discussions if the Romanian state was forced to pay damages, stressing that all the documents showing who made a mistake on the Romanian side in this process would be presented publicly. Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu paid a visit to the Constanta shipyard on Friday and made press statements at the end of the visit. Prime minister Marcel Ciolacu said on Friday in Constanta that although there is too much talk that there is no industry in Romania anymore, that our country has collapsed, the Romanian industry still exists and is expanding, with things being on the right track. "I think we talk too much that we no longer have industry in Romania, that we no longer develop the industry, that the country has collapsed. Believe me, at least lately, especially after I visited the Dacia Plant, after I visited the Ford Plant in Craiova, now the shipyard and tomorrow we have some visits (...), the Romanian industry is expanding, and it exists. Moreover, figures show us that last year we exported 1.3% more and imported 3.2% less. We also see the industrial share in the GDP formation. Indeed, it is not enough, but from my point of view, as prime minister, things are on the right track. We need more involvement and here I made a great promise, that first and foremost I will not trouble them," said Ciolacu after visiting the Constanta Shipyard. According to him, the government should also encourage investment in the industrial area. "We need more funds geared toward the industrial area. We have an economic growth for the first time from investment, both from direct investment, and especially from investment on European funds. In the transport area, where Sorin Grindeanu is the minister, and also on export, there should be investment and encouragement from the government for investment in the industrial area, not just investment in the infrastructure area. Only so, although we had a deficit higher than those who brought this deficit to this value pledged, it is the first time that investment exceed the deficit. In other words, we did not have a deficit triggered by consumption," he said. He gave as an example the labour productivity at the Dacia Plant in Mioveni, where "one car is completed in 55 seconds - 1,400 Dacia cars made in one day." "Over the years, Summit has grown tremendously and has become a leader in the industry and our market. We believe KEG 1 Missouri will not only continue our growth and success but also be an exceptional steward of the business in the years ahead," Stillman, owner and chairman of Summit, said in a statement. ST. LOUIS COUNTY A Maryland Heights-based construction company and its subsidiaries are moving to a larger headquarters in Earth City. TW Constructors bought nearly 7 acres south of St. Charles Rock Road and Route 141. The company plans to build 38,000 square feet of office space and 71,000 square feet for a warehouse and pipe and sheet metal shop, according to a release. Construction is expected to start this spring with completion slated for late 2025. TW Constructors' affiliate companies include Mechanical Solutions Inc., Fire Solutions Inc., and Glazing Solutions, which will also be housed at the new headquarters, at 4500 Earth City Expressway. The company, one of the largest minority-owned construction firms in the region, is currently based on nearly 2 acres in Maryland Heights. TW Constructors is led by CEO Todd Weaver. ST. LOUIS The city raided the big house on Virginia Avenue, in Tower Grove East, on a bright spring morning. After years of complaints about derelict cars, unruly pets, trash and pests, the city had reached its limit. Police and other city workers impounded a car, seized more than 40 animals, and condemned the building. The house was one of at least 20 owned by the Daugherty family, notorious for renting to poor city residents and keeping the homes in awful shape. But in 2004, police weren't after Dara Daugherty, the south side landlord who city lawyers recently accused of running a slum housing empire. They were after her mother. The city lawsuit filed against Daugherty last month was the latest twist in a saga stretching across five decades. Before the city was chasing Dara Daugherty and her rental business, they were chasing Jean Daugherty and hers. Both women riled neighbors who said the Daughertys preyed on the poor and let the properties become nuisances. They both defied efforts to rein in their business. It wasn't until recently, when public interest lawyers teamed up with neighborhoods on special lawsuits targeting the Daughertys, and new city leaders sharpened their enforcement strategies, that a change became possible. I was so surprised to see the city do something about this, said John Baldus, a longtime neighbor who knew both women. This has been going on for 40 years. Dara Daugherty declined comment. Her attorney, Elkin Kistner, said she needed to focus on a pending criminal case against her. Daugherty is accused of burglarizing a south city home last year. 'Very strange people' Baldus got his introduction to the Daughertys in 1989. He and his then-girlfriend, who is now his wife, had moved into a house in Tower Grove East that backed up to the Daugherty family home, so they shared the alley with them. Neighbors told them to watch themselves around the Daughertys, and Baldus quickly found out why. They were very strange people, he said. Some of the oddities were small and short-lived, like the dog poop drain. When Baldus noticed the Daughertys were flushing the waste from a backyard pen through a pipe that flowed into the alley, he called the police, who made them fill it with cement. Others were more persistent, like the cars. For years, the Daughertys would line the nearby streets with 10 or more junkers at a time. Baldus noticed Charles Daugherty, the family patriarch, seemed to spend a lot of time laboring over the broken machines. The Daughertys also rented out two other homes on the block, which over time drew their own complaints for rat infestations, building code violations and piles of debris. Baldus and others noticed that tenants were either down on their luck, doing odd jobs for the family, or both. One man would move the fleet of cars on street sweeping days. He had to carry a car battery from vehicle to vehicle to make them start, a neighbor said. Jean Daugherty called a different tenant Chicken Lips, a neighbor said. Jean would come out of her house Baldus said, and yell, Chicken Lips, go get the truck! Then a man with thin lips would come out of a house on Louisiana, get a truck and drive off with Daugherty. Often, Baldus said, those trips ended with the truck full of beat-up furniture, as if they'd just moved someone out. It was like watching Sanford and Son, Baldus said. Daughertys rental business was growing in those days. Land records show the Daughertys controlled at least seven properties in 1989, mostly clustered in their home neighborhood. By 2003, they controlled more than 20 across the south side, stretching into Benton Park, Dutchtown and Dogtown, and drawing concerns from neighbors and authorities alarmed at the state of some of their properties and their tenants. Former Alderman Ken Ortmann, who represented the old 9th Ward, regularly discussed Daugherty properties with city staff charged with handling nuisances. I felt sorry for the people they were putting in there, Ortmann said. I could never understand why anyone would go into a property that's so bad. The city condemned at least three of the houses from 2002-2004. One was slated for demolition. But the city, then, wasn't targeting the whole business. It hadn't yet come up with the strategies the city is using now to deal with slumlords, said former Alderman Craig Schmid, whose ward also included Daugherty properties. The city also didn't want to create new headaches. You need someone ready to take over the property and redevelop it, Schmid said. Otherwise, its just another vacant property thats going to continue to bring you problems. But by 2004, the big family house on Virginia was deteriorating. There was a hole in the roof. And in the previous four years, complaints had spiked, sounding the alarm on rat infestations, building code violations, derelict cars and general filth. One morning that spring, neighbor Ralph Zuke was standing in his kitchen when he heard a woman screaming. When he reached his back porch, he saw two female police officers leading Jean Daugherty down the alley in handcuffs. The place was being condemned. Inside, city workers encountered a disgusting mess. In a lawsuit filed later, city lawyers cited infestations of rats and roaches, and large amounts of trash and waste human and animal. When things calmed down on that spring day, Zuke asked a police officer what it was like. He said he got 10 or 15 feet in and his asthma kicked in, he said. In the months that followed the raid, Zuke marveled as the house was slowly cleaned out, and its contents were loaded into a series of 30-yard dumpsters. One day it was nothing but sewing machines, he said. One day it was nothing but bike frames. Jean Daugherty sued months later, seeking the return of 43 pets 12 dogs and 31 exotic birds. The city resisted, citing the unsanitary conditions. Eventually, a judge allowed the pets to be adopted by a list of family members and friends at other addresses. Zuke never saw Jean Daugherty again. She died the following year. But not before filing paperwork seeking to pass on a collection of at least 20 properties to her five children, including Dara. 'The house was almost lost' Some of the houses were sold. A couple others were lost to foreclosure. But from 2009 to 2012, Dara Daugherty reloaded, buying seven homes on the citys southeast side out of foreclosure, the first tranche of 16 she would buy over the years. She also introduced something new into the business: She used limited liability companies to buy and hold the properties, reducing her financial risk and making it harder to know who owned her property. She wasn't on a buying spree AAA Sunshine Investments was. She would ultimately organize at least three more LLCs, including two that each owned a single property. Investigators had to see who was collecting the rent to say who was in charge. City lawyers would later say tenants reported signing over their government benefit checks to Dara Daugherty, ensuring rent got paid. The usual trouble followed. Neighbors filed reports of dangerous dogs, roach infestations, bed bugs and water leaks. One property, on Pennsylvania Avenue in the Carondelet neighborhood, inspired 13 complaints about hazardous waste, about garbage on the property, about building code violations, derelict vehicles and general nuisances in a single year. And, city attorneys said, Daugherty regularly had renters living in houses that were condemned. Her LLCs even sued to evict tenants from at least two properties that had been condemned, city and court records show. Sometimes complaints turned into building inspections, and then summonses to housing court, where Daugherty faced fines, city records show. But city lawyers later said Daugherty often responded by skipping court. Officers would arrest her on the resulting warrants, but she would get out of jail in a few hours, reset her court date, and start the cycle all over again. Neighbors felt like nothing could stop Daugherty. Back on Virginia Avenue in Tower Grove East, Cal Thomas, a longtime resident and block captain, said that when the city boarded up a place next to the old family home, Daugherty would just take down the boards. And when neighbors reported people going in through the front door, tenants just started coming in through the back, Thomas said. But in the fall of 2020, a nonprofit public-interest law firm, Legal Services of Eastern Missouri, opened a new front on the Daughertys. Attorney Peter Hoffman had recently arrived from Kansas City, where he'd had success using state nuisance laws to force property owners to take better care of vacant buildings or sell them to someone who would. His new initiative here was asked to help with a house in south St. Louis' Marine Villa neighborhood that had been in Daugherty hands since 1983. By the time Legal Services arrived, the place was vacant, and the big concerns were squatters and slow-motion structural collapse the back wall had fallen out. Neighbors had called the city and gotten it written up a bunch of times, said Stephen Jehle, the neighborhood association president, but nothing was happening. Legal Services' lawsuit changed that. Citing state nuisance laws, the firm asked a judge to order a Daugherty-organized company to fix up the house within 30 days. It said that if the company didn't respond, the judge should appoint a third-party receiver to do repairs, send the company the bill and take over ownership. A lawyer for Daugherty's company and ex-partner, Keith Mack, signed an agreement in April 2022 to make repairs, or give the neighborhood association the right to take the property. Instead, Daugherty's company transferred the property to a company connected to her brother. When the neighborhood association learned, it asked a judge to force a sale, and got it. That house was almost lost, Hoffman said. Now it's being renovated. 'We did our best' Legal Services filed similar suits against five other properties they tied to Daugherty, on behalf of groups in the Carondelet and Benton Park neighborhoods. Then the city stepped in. Mayor Tishaura O. Jones came into office in 2021 knowing that the city had fallen short on nuisance properties in the past. She made a priority of doing better, said spokesperson Nick Dunne: She hired new staff and formed a new legal unit to take on big cases like teasing apart the Daugherty empire. On Jan. 16, in a 57-page petition, lawyers from the unit put on record what neighbors had been saying for years. Daugherty and her associates, the petition said, "operate outside the bounds of the Citys health and safety permitting process and engage in a predatory business model that exploits vulnerable and indigent persons. It said she recruited tenants, many of whom were struggling with mental illness and drug addiction, from homeless shelters and food banks. It said she charged them hundreds of dollars per month to live in garages, basements and other small spaces in uninhabitable properties without occupancy permits. It said there had been five overdose deaths, several violent assaults, and numerous fights at those properties. It described Daugherty herself, too, as a scofflaw who brushed off arrest warrants and court dates, and bragged to city officials about making $40,000 per month by neglecting her properties. Then city lawyers asked a judge to declare dozens of properties owned by Daugherty and associates as public nuisances. They asked the court to force Daugherty to close them down, fix them up, and pay the city back for all the trouble. "The publics interest in maintaining safe and peaceful residential neighborhoods outweighs any inconvenience or economic loss to Defendants," the lawyers wrote. Daugherty has yet to respond in court, or even to be served with the lawsuit, court records say. Now, 20 years after the city raided the big house on Virginia, the deck is stacking up against Dara Daugherty. The city wants to shut her down. Neighborhood associations and legal aid lawyers want to take her properties. At least three tenants who lived in spaces without occupancy permits are suing her for fraud and demanding thousands of dollars in damages. Another tenant, James Cole, just won a $1.8 million judgment against one of Daugherty's companies after being stabbed by another tenant in a house on South Jefferson Avenue. Even her personal home, in Brentwood, has been condemned by that city for operating as a boarding house, failing to have working smoke detectors, and trash piles large enough to be deemed a fire hazard. Still, her old neighbors on Virginia aren't sure change is really coming. Deloris Bentley, who once lived across the street from the family home, said she expects to see people living in the rotting house next to it again. "They'll be back," she said. Thomas, the longtime block captain, recalled years of calling the city with no result. We did our best, he said. Something finally happened. You just hope she doesn't wrangle out of it. She seems to be good at that. ST. LOUIS Former St. Louis Alderman Jeffrey Boyd, who pleaded guilty to taking bribes from a local businessman, has been released from federal prison. A federal inmate tracker says Boyd is in the custody of the St. Louis Residential Reentry Management field office, which supervises people who have been released from prison and are serving time on home confinement or in halfway houses. Officials with the U.S. Bureau of Prisons did not respond to a request for information about where, exactly, Boyd is staying. Boyd was sentenced alongside former Aldermanic President Lewis Reed and ex-Alderman John Collins-Muhammad in December 2022 for taking bribes from the co-owner of several gas stations in north St. Louis and St. Louis County. Boyd was sentenced to three years in prison, and Reed and Collins-Muhammad were sentenced to three years and nine months. All three men have requested that a judge reduce their sentences, citing new guidelines a federal commission that calculates sentencing ranges based on factors such as the nature of the crime and a persons criminal history. Boyds reduction was denied, and federal prosecutors filed to oppose Reed and Collins-Muhammads requests. A judge will make a decision on their sentences at a later date. Currently, Reed and Collins-Muhammad are projected to complete their sentences in late October 2025, according to Bureau of Prison records. EAST CAPE GIRARDEAU, Ill. Donald Friese spent nearly his entire adult life in prison or headed back there. The 39-year-old Metro East man was convicted of at least four felonies before the age of 23. In 2008, he was sentenced to more than 10 years for trading a rifle stolen from federal law enforcement for crack cocaine. He got out of prison about six years later. But then, just 19 days after moving into a halfway house, he got into a fight that escalated to intentionally ramming someones vehicle and killing that persons passenger. He pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and served another six years before his release during the coronavirus pandemic. His legal troubles continued in recent years, though mostly with less serious charges. Then, on Wednesday night, he was shot and killed by police in East Cape Girardeau, Illinois. The shooting followed a manhunt that began when authorities say Friese shot and injured a cop in Granite City one day earlier. My son was not innocent by far, his mother, Gloria Francis, said in an interview Thursday. (But) he is not the monster that the media has put him out to be. Francis said her son was diagnosed with schizophrenia in prison, where she estimated he spent all but three years of his life after turning 18. In addition to murder, his rap sheet includes charges related to drugs, resisting arrest, burglary, fleeing from police, theft and at least three dozen traffic violations. Friese came back on the polices radar Tuesday night when they were called to his girlfriends Granite City home for a disturbance. Francis said they were fighting. Officers approached him in an alley while his mom said he was trying to calm down. Thats when police said he opened fire, hitting an officer in the arm, and ran away. I knew that when that happened, I was never going to see my child alive again, Francis said. Everyone knew it. They were going to kill him. Francis said she didnt hear from her son after that. A manhunt ensued, and Granite City police held a news conference on Wednesday afternoon urging the public to be on the lookout. Then, late Wednesday, the U.S. Marshals Service and police in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, spotted Friese and started chasing him. They crossed into Illinois and were on Illinois Route 146 when Friese drove his car into a field and got it stuck. He barricaded himself inside the vehicle, and when police say he pointed a long gun at them, they opened fire. Friese leaves behind four children, ranging in age from 16 to 21, and one grandchild. Francis said he spent as much time as he could with his children when he got out of prison, trying to make up for lost time. He loved his kids, she said. He had just bought his daughter a new stove, put new flooring in Francis house and gotten his girlfriend a fridge, his mom said. They also went on family vacations, too. We have good memories, Francis said, and we know he is free now. ST. LOUIS A St. Louis man was convicted Friday of killing a man after an argument over child support. Jeffery L. Lumzy testified at trial this week that he killed 35-year-old Jeffrey Avant, of East St. Louis, in self-defense after Avant reached for a gun during a confrontation at the Carr Square home of Lumzys ex-girlfriend and the mother of three of his 15 children. Lumzy, 54, claimed he grabbed the gun first, then fired. It was his life or mine, Lumzy said. But prosecutors told a different story. They said Lumzy arrived at the home on Dec. 29, 2022, and became angry with his ex-girlfriend, who had recently requested child support. Lumzy left to retrieve a gun, then returned and jumped over a railing on a back patio. He forced his way into the home and shot Avant, who was sitting on the couch. Avant was bleeding on the couch for several minutes while the five children who were at home at the time came out of a back bedroom. Lumzy told the woman to get the kids dressed and to leave the house. They did not call 911. He was begging for help, said federal prosecutor Tiffany Becker, who stepped in to help prosecute the case for the St. Louis Circuit Attorneys Office along with her colleague, Erin Granger. He was alive, and you ignored him. Lumzy fled to the Chicago area, where he stayed for six weeks before being arrested. He said he planned to work and earn enough money to hire a private attorney. Jurors deliberated for less than two hours before convicting Lumzy of first-degree murder, armed criminal action, burglary, unlawful possession of a firearm and stealing. Lumzy had an extensive criminal history spanning roughly 30 years that included convictions of burglary, stealing, forgery and weapons offenses. He now faces an automatic sentence of life in prison without parole. CREVE COEUR De Smet Jesuit High School for boys will add grades six through eight in the 2025-2026 school year, growing to about 850 students. The school was founded in 1967 and has considered adding younger grade levels a few times over the years. Two other local Catholic boys high schools enroll middle school students: Chaminade starts at sixth grade and Priory starts at seventh. All the research on religious practice is telling us that the age of 13 is when kids make the decision to opt in or opt out, said the Rev. Ronny ODwyer, president of De Smet. If were serious about faith formation, weve got to get kids younger. The new grades are expected to enroll about 60 students each. Tuition has not been set, but will likely be lower than the $21,000 annually for high school students. De Smet is looking to hire a dean of the middle school to start in July for a year of preparation. The expansion at De Smet comes as Archbishop Mitchell Rozanski is reviewing long-term plans for the 30 smallest parish grade schools in the archdiocese. Some school mergers or closures could be announced this month in the second phase of All Things New downsizing of the churchs footprint in the region amid a declining number of Catholics and priests. Enrollment across the 82 grade schools in the archdiocese is below 65% of capacity. There are now about 19,000 students in the schools, down from 40,000 in 2000. But a community survey to gauge interest for a middle school at De Smet found a negligible effect on Catholic feeder schools that offer sixth through eighth grades. What really surprised me was the significant interest from Catholic families presently attending public schools, ODwyer said. Rozanski approved the expansion of De Smet, which operates independently but is sponsored by the archdiocese. There are no parish or archdiocesan-run high schools left in St. Louis County following the closure of Trinity in Spanish Lake in 2021. The independent Barat Academy in Chesterfield closed last year. I am grateful for De Smets leadership in our Archdiocese to conduct the extensive research and dialogue necessary to strategically address the important mission of Catholic education, Rozanski said in a statement. Students in the middle school grades will attend class in a dedicated section of the De Smet campus on New Ballas Road. Eighth graders in good standing will be automatically admitted to the high school, but students from other middle schools can still apply in ninth grade. Each high school grade at De Smet has about 175 students. JEFFERSON CITY All four of Missouris Roman Catholic dioceses have made contributions to a campaign trying to defeat a possible ballot question that would ask voters to legalize abortion in Missouri. The Missouri Catholic Conference, the public policy arm for the church in Missouri, has also given $5,001 to the Missouri Stands With Women campaign. The Catholic Church and all the dioceses are united in opposing this initiative petition. They dont want to see it on the ballot. And if it gets on the ballot, they want it to be defeated, Sam Lee, president of Missouri Stands with Women and a Catholic deacon, said Friday. The initial show of support for the anti-abortion effort stands in contrast to the more than $3 million from thousands of donations the abortion legalization campaign, Missourians for Constitutional Freedom, says it raised since launching last month. Lee said the campaign is actively fundraising. Only donations greater than $5,000 need to be reported to the state within 48 hours. Right now, the Missouri Stands with Women campaign is focused on blocking the pro-abortion rights campaign from collecting enough signatures to make the ballot later this year. If the campaign turns in enough signatures by May 5, the question would appear before voters later this year. We want people to decline to sign, Lee said. Frankly, they dont get the signatures by May 5, then its not gonna be on the ballot. Lee said, abortion politics should not be injected into our constitution in this way. Lee, longtime lobbyist for Campaign Life Missouri, was a main proponent of the near-total abortion ban legislators approved, and Gov. Mike Parson signed, in 2019. The law included a trigger provision that would outlaw all abortions, except in medical emergencies, if the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, the 1973 decision establishing a constitutional right to an abortion. When the conservative majority overturned Roe in June 2022, Missouris trigger law took effect. In the wake of that decision, a state-by-state fight has been playing out over abortion rights. Abortion-rights proponents have been encouraged by the results of abortion-related ballot questions in conservative states such as Kansas, Kentucky and Ohio. Missouri abortion rights supporters in January formally launched a signature-gathering campaign to overturn the states abortion ban. The proposed constitutional amendment, pushed by Missourians for Constitutional Freedom, would create the right to an abortion until after the point of fetal viability, which would be determined by the treating health professional. Missourians for Constitutional Freedom had been competing with the Missouri Women and Family Research Fund, which had sought a moderate alternative that wouldve legalized abortion in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy and in cases of rape and incest. But that campaign announced this week it was folding and would support any effort to overturn Missouris abortion law. JEFFERSON CITY New measures intended to prevent kids from seeing porn on the internet were presented this week by a group of state lawmakers during a House committee hearing. The four proposals take varied approaches to requiring porn sites to verify the age of all visitors and imposing civil liability on the site owners and operators if minors access pornographic content. The bills also vary in how they define that content, though they all use the term material harmful to minors and draw on the U.S. Supreme Courts Miller test. The Miller test, a set of guidelines based on a 1973 ruling, is a way for courts to determine if something is obscene and therefore not protected under the First Amendment. Lawmakers and those who offered public testimony raised competing and contentious concerns about protecting children online, the effects of porn, privacy, and free speech. My bill is designed to protect minors from online pornography, said Rep. Sherri Gallick, R-Belton, one of the bill sponsors. She later said that porn sites resist age verification because they know that minors can be hooked on their products at an early age. Gallick said studies show porn harms brain development, causes health problems and addiction, can be a conduit to pregnancy and can encourage sexual promiscuity. Gallick said Vicky Hartzler, a former state representative and Missouri congresswoman, contacted her last summer to see if she knew someone willing to sponsor legislation related to minors and pornography, and she agreed. Hartzler spoke at the hearing, saying Gallicks bill will protect our children from what I view as a public health crisis that is not just endangering the public at large but also harming our children and that is the epidemic of pornography. We must protect our children from exposure to this harmful, dangerous, and, I would say, evil influence, she said. Rep. Brad Banderman, R-St. Clair, is sponsoring another proposal. He said his bill mirrors that of Virginia state Sen. Bill Stanley, whose proposal was signed into law last year and led to the Pornhub blocking Virginia users from its website. The proposal simply allows Missourians to file civil lawsuits if minors access online porn, Banderman said. Were not arresting people, were not locking people up. Age verification would be done using an ID, through an identity verification business or through a commercially available database that is regularly used by businesses or governmental entities. Your requirement that any folks that are of legal age that want to access this material have to provide not only identification but subject themselves to a lack of anonymity is a very heavy-handed approach, said Rep. Tony Lovasco, R-OFallon, who is on the committee that heard the proposals. Were effectively allowing the creation of databases of folks that use pornography, he said. The American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri opposed the proposals. While the ACLU of Missouri is understanding of the overarching intention to increase safety online, these proposed measures raise serious concerns regarding privacy, surveillance, and First Amendment rights of Missourians, it said in written testimony. TechNet, a tech industry lobbying group, in written testimony asked state lawmakers to change their proposals to more closely align with a Louisiana law. Without amendments, bills on this issue area can have the unintended consequences of platforms having to decide to ban entire categories of users and content for fear of being found liable under the application of overly broad language, Technets statement said. This legislation is House Bills 1993, 1426, 1855 and 2157. Valentines Day might put you in the mood to look for love online. Unfortunately, criminals are also on the hunt, but for victims, not romance. Meeting people online has opened the door to romance fraud, says Kim Casci-Palangio, program director of the peer support program at the nonprofit Cybercrime Support Network in Ann Arbor, Michigan. You feel you can trust them, she says, adding that cybercriminals often cultivate relationships for months before asking for money. Reports to the Federal Trade Commission show consumers lost $1.3 billion in 2022 to romance scams. While romance scams can happen to anybody, here are some strategies experts suggest to reduce your risk of falling for one: Beware of online relationships that move fast People are often eager to move relationships forward quickly, especially around official holidays, says Eva Velasquez, president and CEO of the Identity Theft Resource Center, a nonprofit organization that provides advice and assistance related to identity theft. She suggests going slowly instead. Scam artists, Velasquez explains, tend to shower their targets with affection, proclaiming their love early. Then, the victim feels compelled to send money when the scam artist says they need it. They make up some excuse like an accident, she explains. If their target doesnt send it to them, they move on to the next victim. Watch for common red flags Another sign of romance fraud is if the person you are interacting with asks you to communicate off of the dating app, such as by using WhatsApp or email, says Ayleen Charlotte, whose story of being tricked by a romance scam was featured in the Netflix show The Tinder Swindler. Charlotte now works with BioCatch, a fraud prevention firm, as a scam advisor and banking customer advocate. They want you in a more personal environment to get to you, Charlotte says, where they can interact with you on their own terms without any limits imposed by dating apps. Casci-Palangio says another sign that something is amiss is if the person you are communicating with declines to have video calls with you or meet in person. They might cite reasons such as living overseas, serving in the military or working on an offshore oil rig. They may not be who they say they are, Casci-Palangio says. They might also be using canned scripts that they send to multiple people; using terms like honey instead of your name is a sign you could be communicating with a scammer. Do your own research If you start to wonder about the person you are communicating with online, its time to go into investigative mode. Casci-Palangio suggests starting with a reverse image search of their profile photos. You can upload any photo to images.google.com to generate results. You might discover the images actually belong to someone else or are used across multiple sites with different names and identities. But they could also be using a newly created image. Having no online footprint is also a red flag, she adds. Melanie McGovern, national spokesperson for the Better Business Bureau, a nonprofit that promotes marketplace trust, suggests taking notes on your interactions so you can notice any inconsistencies. If your love interest mentions a high school they attended, then look it up and confirm whatever other facts you can. Make sure youre asking all kinds of specific questions, McGovern says, especially if they share a sad story about a sick relative or other compelling tale. Then, go back and ask the same questions a week later. If they cant remember details, you should be skeptical, she says. Avoid exchanging money One common scenario involves the scam artist encouraging you to send money for an investment or asking you to accept a large deposit, which you then forward to another account. But then, the first check doesnt clear and your own money vanishes, warns Seth Ruden, BioCatchs director of global advisory. Dont take funds from people youve never met, and dont offer to circulate funds for others, Ruden says. If you authorize a money transfer, you are probably responsible for it, he adds, which means you might never see your money again. Let go of shame and report the fraud A lot of people feel stupid for falling into any type of scam, and thats the taboo I want to take off. You are not stupid. This is what a fraudster does. This is their job, Charlotte says. To help victims feel less alone, the Cybercrime Support Network organizes groups for them to meet weekly to help process what they experienced and find emotional support. Usually they havent told anyone yet because theyre embarrassed, Casci-Palangio says. People who have experienced romance scams can also get support and help others by reporting to their banks fraud department, as well as the FTC, a states attorney generals office, the FBI, a local police station, the Better Business Bureaus Scam Tracker and the Identity Theft Resource Center, among others. Charlotte notes that scams can happen to any of us. The right scam just has to find the right person at the right time. ___ This article was written by NerdWallet and was originally published by The Associated Press. ___ Like a lot of mothers, North Dakota state Rep. Emily O'Brien struggled to find infant care when her daughter Lennon was born in 2019. So O'Brien, a Republican who represents the Grand Forks region, brought Lennon along to meetings with local leaders and constituents. O'Brien had her second daughter, Jolene, in 2022, not long before legislators were due to meet. Wanting more time to bond before returning to work, O'Brien brought the newborn with her to Bismarck, where she snoozed through Gov. Doug Burgum's State of the State address on her mother's desk. Not long after, O'Brien persuaded her colleagues to back a plan to invest $66 million in child care, an unprecedented sum for a state that had, like others with Republican leadership, long resisted such spending. But O'Brien argued it could help the state's workforce shortage by helping more parents go to work and attracting new families to the state. "It was definitely not, you know, an easy sell, because this is probably somewhere where you don't want the government to get involved," O'Brien said. "But it's a workforce solution. We have people that are willing and able to work, but finding child care was an obstacle." Republicans historically have been lukewarm about using taxpayer money for child care, even as they have embraced prekindergarten. But the pandemic, which left many child care providers in crisis, underscored how precarious the industry is and how many working parents rely on it. In 2021, Congress passed $24 billion of pandemic aid for child care businesses, an unprecedented federal investment. Now, as that aid dries up, Republican state lawmakers across the country are embracing plans to support child care and even making it central to their policy agendas. To be sure, the largest investments in child care have come not from Republicans but from Democratic lawmakers. In New Mexico, the state is covering child care for most children under 5 using a trust funded by oil and natural gas production. In Vermont, Democratic state lawmakers overrode a Republican governor's veto to pass a payroll tax hike to fund child care subsidies. Red states are following suit with more modest but nonetheless historic investments in child care. In Missouri, Republican Gov. Mike Parson has proposed spending nearly $130 million to help low-income families access child care once the pandemic relief money dries up and to create tax credits to support child care providers. The House passed the tax credit legislation Thursday with bipartisan support, sending it to the Senate. Republican state Rep. Brenda Shields, who sponsored the tax credit bill, said she tells conservative colleagues that child care accessibility is vital to grow the state's economy. "Child care is a critical infrastructure, just like roads and bridges and ports and trains," Shields said. "Businesses have been saying, 'What are you doing about child care?' So I'm trying to be part of the solution." Missouri's number of child-care facilities is down 14%, and the 167,000 slots for children is about 6,000 fewer than before the coronavirus pandemic in December 2019, according to data from the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Elsewhere, Louisiana last year approved an unprecedented $52 million for child care subsidies for low-income families. Alabama provided $17 million worth of incentives for child care providers to get licensed. And Texas voters approved a property tax cut for some day care centers. More Republicans have pledged to tackle the child care crisis this year. In Missouri, Senate President Pro Tem Caleb Rowden, a Republican, said he hoped the Statehouse would focus less on culture war issues like criminalizing drag shows and censoring library books and more on expanding access to child care and school choice. Nebraska and Indiana have both pitched programs to make child care free for child care workers. Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, a Republican who ran on a conservative education agenda, pitched boosting the state's child care and education spending by $180 million. Child care advocates say the investments are not enough and called on Congress to authorize a new round of money to keep the child care industry afloat. Already, day care centers report they are raising tuition and losing workers because they are no longer receiving federal subsidies. Some have folded. GOP resistance to child care spending dates to the 1970s, when President Richard Nixon vetoed a bill to establish a national child care system, invoking fears of communism and saying it had "family-weakening implications." Many of those arguments persist. Some conservative lawmakers have panned child care funding as " socialist," arguing that people who can't afford day care should not have children. Two years ago, an Idaho state lawmaker apologized after he opposed federal early childhood money because it encouraged women to " come out of the home and let others raise their children." The new and expanded funding reflects a growing sentiment that the nation's broken child care system will not be fixed without public support. Families have long faced issues finding affordable, reliable child care. But during the pandemic, many child care workers left the industry for better-paying jobs, and some child care centers closed for good, exacerbating the problem. Child care is a labor-heavy enterprise in some states, one person may only care for four infants at once. Even before the pandemic, child care providers often had razor-thin margins. When families kept their children home during the pandemic, many day cares were barely hanging on. Many parts of the country do not have enough child care providers to offer slots for all children. Even when slots are available, the cost is out of reach for many families. It's a problem that disproportionately affects women, who are typically the primary caregivers for children. But a lack of child care access is also keeping people from the workforce, contributing to a labor shortage in many states. Many industries have started lobbying for states to invest more in child care. One of the strongest proponents is the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, which surveyed a dozen states and estimated they lost billions of dollars in economic activity because of child care gaps. Resistance persists in many parts of the country. While North Dakota passed ground-breaking measures to support child care, Republican Gov. Kristi Noem in South Dakota said she opposed proposals to spend state dollars helping families pay for child care. "The one thing that I'm not wiling to do is to directly subsidize child care for families," Noem recently told KWAT News in Watertown, South Dakota. "I just don't think it's the government's job to pay or to raise people's children for them." ___ Associated Press writers Summer Ballentine and David A. Lieb contributed to this report. ___ The Associated Press' education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP's standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org. ___ Grandparents, neighbors and friends are propping up the child care industry. They need help Grandparents, neighbors and friends are propping up the child care industry. They need help Educating unlicensed caregivers Friend, family, and neighbor care Calling for more support States supporting family and friend caregivers Looking for tips to handle caregiving challenges Benefits for children and caregivers Promising results, but proper funding is lacking Making a big difference WASHINGTON A special counsel report released Thursday found evidence that President Joe Biden willfully retained and shared highly classified information when he was a private citizen, including about military and foreign policy in Afghanistan, but concluded that criminal charges were not warranted. The report from special counsel Robert Hur resolves a criminal investigation that shadowed Bidens presidency for the past year. Its bitingly critical assessment of his handling of sensitive government records and unflattering characterizations of his memory will spark fresh questions about his age and competency. The harsh findings also will almost certainly blunt his ability to forcefully condemn Donald Trump, Bidens likely opponent in Novembers presidential election, over a criminal indictment charging the former president with illegally hoarding classified records at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida. Despite abundant differences between the cases, Trump immediately seized on the special counsel report to portray himself as a victim of a two-tiered system of justice. Yet even as Hur found evidence that Biden willfully held onto highly classified information and shared it with a ghostwriter with whom he published memoirs in 2007 and 2017, the special counsel devoted much of his report to explaining why he did not believe the evidence met the standard for criminal charges. Those reasons included a high probability that the Justice Department would not be able to prove Bidens intent beyond a reasonable doubt, citing among other things an advanced age they said made him forgetful and the possibility of innocent explanations for the records that they could not refute. We have also considered that, at trial, Mr. Biden would likely present himself to a jury, as he did during our interview of him, as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory, investigators wrote. In a statement, Biden he was pleased Hur reached the conclusion I believed all along they would reach that there would be no charges brought in this case and the matter is now closed. However, in later remarks at the White House, Biden angrily lashed out at Hur for questioning his mental acuity, particularly his recollection of the timing of his late son Beaus death from cancer. Speaking to reporters, Biden asserted, My memory is fine, and insisted he believes he remains the most qualified person to serve as president. I did not share classified information, he insisted. I did not share it with my ghostwriter. He added he wasnt aware how boxes containing classified documents ended up in his garage. Bidens lawyers blasted the report for what they said were inaccuracies and gratuitous swipes at the president. The investigation is separate from special counsel Jack Smiths inquiry into the handling of classified documents by Trump after his presidency. Smiths team charged Trump with illegally retaining top secret records and then obstructing government efforts to get them back. Trump has said he did nothing wrong. Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed Hur, a former U.S. Attorney in the Trump administration, as special counsel in January 2023 following an initial discovery by Biden staff of classified records in Washington office space. Subsequent FBI property searches, voluntarily coordinated by Biden staff, turned up additional sensitive documents from his time as vice president and senator. Hurs report said many of the documents recovered at the Penn Biden Center in Washington, in Bidens Delaware home and in his Senate papers at the University of Delaware were retained by mistake. Biden could not have been prosecuted as a sitting president, but Hurs report states that he would not recommend charges against Biden regardless. But investigators found evidence of willful retention and disclosure of a subset of records found in Bidens Wilmington, Delaware house, including in a garage, office and basement den. The files pertain to a troop surge in Afghanistan during the Obama administration that Biden vigorously opposed. He kept records that documented his position, including a 2009 classified letter to Obama. Documents found in a box in Bidens Delaware garage have classification markings up to the Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information Level and other materials of great significance to him and that he appears to have personally used and accessed. Hur wrote there was a shortage of evidence to prove Biden placed the documents in the box and knew they were there. Investigators reviewed a recording of a February 2017 conversation between Biden and his ghostwriter in which Biden can be heard saying he just found all the classified stuff downstairs. Prosecutors believe Bidens comment, made at a time he was renting a home in Virginia, referred to the same documents FBI agents later found in his Delaware house. Though Biden sometimes skipped over presumptively classified material while reading notebook entries to his ghostwriter, the report says, at other times he read aloud classified entries verbatim. The report said there was some evidence to suggest Biden knew he could not keep classified handwritten notes at home after leaving office. Yet, prosecutors say, he kept notebooks containing classified information in unlocked drawers at home. He viewed the notebooks as highly private and valued possessions with which he was unwilling to part, the report said. It says he was known to remove and keep classified material from his briefing books for future use and his staff struggled and sometimes failed to get those records back. Photos: Trump indictment shows documents stacked in bathroom, bedroom, ballroom What does the Missouri Legislature have against women? Its a question that feels more pressing all the time lately. And not just because of the near-total ban on abortion rights that the state imposed literally minutes after the Supreme Courts reversal of Roe v. Wade in 2022. Despite already realizing their most long-held, fundamental goal, the Republicans who control state government still seem determined to continue transforming Missouri into some real-life version of the dystopian novel The Handmaids Tale. In recent days alone, they have tried to nix funding for the contraceptive services provided by Planned Parenthood, have moved to prevent a fair referendum vote on abortion rights, and in a remarkable demonstration of the callousness at the heart of their movement summarily defeated proposals to allow abortion exceptions for rape victims. Missouris abortion ban is as strict as any in the nation, outlawing the procedure in all cases, including rape and incest, with only a vaguely defined exception for medical emergencies. The specter of re-victimizing rape and incest victims, including minors, by forcing them to continue the pregnancy has made even many anti-abortion rights advocates around the country amenable to those exceptions. But when Democrats on Wednesday proposed such exceptions in the Missouri Senate, every Republican present reaffirmed commitment to this cruelty by voting it down. Comments in floor debate by Sen. Sandy Crawford, R-Buffalo, were especially illuminating regarding the partys mindset. She allowed that rape is mentally taxing, but declared: God is perfect. God does not make mistakes. And for some reason he allows [rape] to happen. Bad things happen. Just for the record, rape isnt mentally taxing its deeply traumatic. And American lawmakers are supposed to advance the publics interests, not their personal religious views. Polls indicate that if Missouri voters were given the opportunity, the majority would reinstate abortion rights here. Which explains the continuing determination of Republican lawmakers to change the rules in order to make statewide referendums more difficult to pass. The latest proposal would require majority support from voters in more than half of the states 163 House districts, instead of just a majority of all voters statewide. Its a process that, according to an analysis by the Missouri Independent, could mathematically empower as few as 20% of the states voters to determine the outcome of any referendum and give rural areas virtual veto power over every ballot measure. Its a direct assault on the democratic principle of one person, one vote, with a clear goal in mind. As Tim Jones, state director of the hard-right Missouri Freedom Caucus, bluntly told the Independent, doing it that way would be better for folks on the right side of the political spectrum meaning, worse for women and their supporters who are trying to restore abortion rights. Separately, legislative Republicans are continuing their yearslong campaign to cut off all public Planned Parenthood funding in Missouri. To be clear: Planned Parenthood no longer provides abortion services in Missouri because of the state ban. So what legislators would cut off with the defunding effort is contraceptive services, cancer screening, STI testing and other womens health care still provided by the organization. But, hey Bad things happen. Especially for women in Missouri. How Streaming Channels Can Attract Programmatic Advertisers With 55-60% of advertising dollars flowing to Amazon, Meta, and Google, streaming services need to be strategic and deliberate in differentiating their offerings to audiences and the brands that support them. In this clip from Streaming Media Connect, Evan Shapiro, CEO, ESHAP, discusses the challenges to staying ahead of the market in the competition for ad dollars with Lana LoRusso, VP Sales, Atmosphere TV. In this day and age, I think you have to be cognizant of who your audience is, and you have to be smart about the platforms that you're on, Shapiro says. It isn't enough to just have a product and put it out there. You have to stay with the market, ahead of the market, and you have to offer audiences cool things, but then you have to turn around and offer advertisers cool shit too. Especially in a world where 60% of all ads go to three companies. He says to LoRusso, You do have a very differentiated product offering in the marketplace. How do you deal with your advertisers? Is it all programmatic? Do you do branded content? What is the mix that you take out to the marketplace? That is such an interesting question because I've been here since January and we didn't have a New York sales office, LoRusso says. We only had a couple of people here. And getting advertisers, especially in New York or anywhere, across the countrygetting any ad agency or any client to put a new product on their schedule for one of their campaigns is so hard because of what you just said. LoRusso mentions the unique challenges that Atmosphere faces due to the nature of its Out of Home (OOH) advertising within venue premises and the unique streaming video setups that entails. We're in 65,000 venues, so we're not small, she says. We're nationwide, but we don't have sound. It's sound optional. So then that's a problem. Okay, so how are you continually being creative, and how can you buy us, and what other new ideas do we have? She says that one of the best things about Atmosphere is how flexible they are to new ideas. Over the past year, it's grown from about 25,000 venues to over 65,000 venues, she says. And we deal not with just coming into all these bars and restaurants all over the place, those one-offs, but building bigger partnerships like a Choice Hotels or QSR Restaurants and building it that way to get more scale. We have to be super flexible and nimble. We have to say, Yeah, you can run programmatically, you can buy us direct, we can do custom content. She further outlines many of Atmospheres offerings. We can create creative for you at no extra premium, she says. We will provide a brand lift study or a research study with every single campaign you do to prove it out. That's really important. We can target all the way down to the zip code. So if you are, let's say, M&Ms/Mars, we can target anywhere to get people in there to buy your product. Then, we have to be creative with the content. We just launched a newer version of our trivia channel where people can be really interactive. In the bars, we found that people really like trivia. And then, how do you make these little things and celebrate them even more? Do you provide trivia nights across a certain number of bars? Do you provide prizes? Do you have advertisers that can send in drinks? You have to get really creative. You have to offer a lot in the beginning. You have to be very flexible and open to it because getting new advertisers to try something new in a sea of everything else is really hard. Watch full sessions from Streaming Media Connect November 2023. We'll be back in person for Streaming Media NYC on May 20-22, 2024. More details here. Watch full sessions from Streaming Media Connect November 2023. We'll be back in person for Streaming Media NYC on May 20-22, 2024. More details here. Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Related Articles PHILADELPHIA, PA / ACCESSWIRE / February 9, 2024 / The following abrdn U.S. Closed-End Funds (NYSE: ACP),(NYSE: AGD),(NYSE: AOD),(NYSE: ASGI),(NYSE: AWP),(NYSE: IFN),(NYSE: JEQ) and (NYSE American:FAX),(NYSE American:FCO),(NYSE American:IAF),(NYSE American:THW),(NYSE American:VFL), announced today that the closed end funds in the chart directly below will pay the distributions indicated on a per share basis on February 29, 2024 to all shareholders of record as of February 22, 2024 (ex-dividend date February 21, 2024). These dates apply to the Funds listed below with the exception of the abrdn Australia Equity Fund, Inc. (IAF), the India Fund, Inc. (IFN) and the abrdn Japan Equity Fund, Inc. (JEQ) which will pay on March 28, 2024, to all shareholders of record as of February 22, 2024 (ex-dividend date February 21, 2024). Ticker Exchange Fund Amount ACP NYSE abrdn Income Credit Strategies Fund $ 0.1000 AGD NYSE abrdn Global Dynamic Dividend Fund $ 0.0650 AOD NYSE abrdn Total Dynamic Dividend Fund $ 0.0575 ASGI NYSE abrdn Global Infrastructure Income Fund $ 0.1500 AWP NYSE abrdn Global Premier Properties Fund $ 0.0400 FAX NYSE American Abrdn Asia-Pacific Income Fund, Inc. $ 0.0275 FCO NYSE American abrdn Global Income Fund, Inc. $ 0.0700 IAF NYSE American abrdn Australia Equity Fund, Inc. $ 0.1200 IFN NYSE The India Fund, Inc. $ 0.4300 JEQ NYSE abrdn Japan Equity Fund, Inc. $ 0.1100 THW NYSE American abrdn World Healthcare Fund $ 0.1167 VFL NYSE American abrdn National Municipal Income Fund $ 0.0375 At the end of each calendar year, a Form 1099-DIV will be sent to shareholders, which will state the amount and composition of each fund's distributions and provide information with respect to their appropriate tax treatment for the prior calendar year. You should not draw any conclusions about any of these Funds' investment performance from the amount of the distributions. MANAGED DISTRIBUTION POLICY FUNDS ANNOUNCE DISTRIBUTION PAYMENT DETAILS abrdn Global Infrastructure Income Fund ("ASGI") abrdn Australia Equity Fund, Inc. ("IAF") The India Fund, Inc. ("IFN") abrdn Japan Equity Fund, Inc. ("JEQ") abrdn World Healthcare Fund ("THW") The above-noted abrdn U.S. Closed-End Funds (the "Funds" or individually the "Fund"), today announced that the Funds will pay the distributions noted in the chart above on February 29, 2024, on a per share basis to all shareholders of record as of February 22, 2024 (ex-dividend date February 21, 2024). These dates apply to the Funds listed below with the exception of abrdn Australia Equity Fund, Inc. (IAF), the India Fund, Inc. (IFN) and the abrdn Japan Equity Fund, Inc. (JEQ) which will pay on March 28, 2024, to all shareholders of record as of February 22, 2024 (ex-dividend date February 21, 2024). For abrdn Australia Equity Fund, Inc. ("IAF"), the India Fund, Inc. ("IFN") and the abrdn Japan Equity Fund, Inc. ("JEQ"), this stock distribution will automatically be paid in newly issued shares of the Fund unless otherwise instructed by the shareholder. Shares of common stock will be issued at the lower of the net asset value ("NAV") per share or the market price per share with a floor for the NAV of not less than 95% of the market price. The valuation date for this stock distribution is March 19, 2024. Fractional shares will generally be settled in cash, except for registered shareholders with book entry accounts at Computershare Investor Services who will have whole and fractional shares added to their account. Shareholders may request to be paid their quarterly distributions in cash instead of shares of common stock by providing advance notice to the bank, brokerage or nominee who holds their shares if the shares are in "street name," or by filling out in advance an election card received from Computershare Investor Services if the shares are in registered form. To receive the quarterly distribution payable in March 2024 in cash instead of shares of common stock, the bank, brokerage or nominee who holds the shares must advise the Depository Trust Company as to the full and fractional shares for which they want the distribution paid in cash by March 18, 2024, and written notification for the election of cash by registered shareholders must be received by Computershare Investor Services prior to March 18, 2024. Each Fund has adopted a distribution policy to provide investors with a stable distribution out of current income, supplemented by realized capital gains and, to the extent necessary, paid-in capital in reliance on an exemptive order granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission. Under applicable U.S. tax rules, the amount and character of distributable income for each Fund's fiscal year can be finally determined only as of the end of the Fund's fiscal year. However, under Section 19 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act") and related rules, the Funds may be required to indicate to shareholders the estimated source of certain distributions to shareholders. The following tables set forth the estimated amounts of the sources of the distributions for purposes of Section 19 of the 1940 Act and the rules adopted thereunder. The tables have been computed based on generally accepted accounting principles. The tables include estimated amounts and percentages for the current distributions to be paid as well as for the cumulative distributions paid relating to fiscal year to date, from the following sources: net investment income; net realized short-term capital gains; net realized long-term capital gains; and return of capital. The estimated compositions of the distributions may vary because the estimated composition may be impacted by future income, expenses and realized gains and losses on securities and currencies. The Funds' estimated sources of the current distributions to be paid and for its current fiscal year to date are as follows: Estimated Amounts of Current Distribution per Share Fund Distribution Amount Net Investment Income Net Realized Short-Term Gains* Net Realized Long-Term Gains Return of Capital ASGI $ 0.1500 $0.0120 8% - - $0.0840 56% $0.0540 36% IAF $ 0.1100 $0.0132 12% - - - - $0.0968 88% IFN $ 0.4300 - - - - $0.4300 100% - - JEQ $ 0.1100 $0.0143 13% $0.0011 1% - - $0.0946 86% THW $ 0.1167 - - - - - - $ 0.1167 100% Estimated Amounts of Fiscal Year to Date Cumulative Distributions per Share Fund Fiscal Year** to Date Distribution Amount Net Investment Income Net Realized Short-Term Gains* Net Realized Long-Term Gains Return of Capital ASGI $ 0.6700 $0.0536 8% - - $0.3752 56% $0.2412 36% IAF $0.2300 $0.0276 12% - - - - $0.2024 88% IFN $ 0.4300 - - - - $0.4300 100% - - JEQ $ 0.2100 $0.0273 13% $0.0021 1% - - $0.1806 86% THW $ 0.5835 - - - - - - $ 0.5835 100% * includes currency gains ** ASGI and THW have a 9/30 fiscal year end; IAF and JEQ have a 10/31 fiscal year end; IFN has a 12/31 fiscal year end. Where the estimated amounts above show a portion of the distribution to be a "Return of Capital," it means that Fund estimates that it has distributed more than its income and capital gains; therefore, a portion of your distribution may be a return of capital. A return of capital may occur for example, when some or all the money that you invested in a Fund is paid back to you. A return of capital distribution does not necessarily reflect the Fund's investment performance and should not be confused with "yield" or "income." As of February 2nd, 2023, after giving effect to this payment, JEQ estimates it has a net deficit of $9,293,000. A net deficit results when the Fund has net unrealized losses that are in excess of any net realized gains that have not yet been distributed. The amounts and sources of distributions reported in this notice are only estimates and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The final determination of the source of all distributions for the current year will only be made after year-end. The actual amounts and sources of the amounts for tax reporting purposes will depend upon the Fund's investment experience during the remainder of the fiscal year and may be subject to change based on tax regulations. After the end of each calendar year, a Form 1099-DIV will be sent to shareholders for the prior calendar year that will tell you how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes. The following table provides the Funds' total return performance based on net asset value (NAV) over various time periods compared to the Funds' annualized and cumulative distribution rates. Fund Performance and Distribution Rate Information Fund Average Annual Total Return on NAV for the 5 Year Period Ending 01/31/2024 Current Fiscal Period's Annualized Distribution Rate on NAV Cumulative Total Return on NAV Cumulative Distribution Rate on NAV ASGI3 7.42%3 9.58% 8.08% 2.59% IAF 8.54% 9.07% 17.84% 2.27% IFN 8.96% N/A* 0.95% N/A* JEQ 4.70% 5.89% 18.11% 1.47% THW 8.00% 11.53% 7.82% 3.84% 1 Return data is net of all fund expenses and fees and assumes the reinvestment of all distributions reinvested at prices obtained under the Fund's dividend reinvestment plan. 2 Based on the Fund's NAV as of January 31, 2024. 3 The Fund launched within the past 5 years; the performance and distribution rate information presented reflects data from inception (July 29, 2020) through January 31, 2024. * The Fund's fiscal period to date is January 1, 2024 to January 31, 2024 and there was no distribution during this period. Shareholders should not draw any conclusions about a Fund's investment performance from the amount of the Fund's current distributions or from the terms of the distribution policy (the "Distribution Policy"). While NAV performance may be indicative of the Fund's investment performance, it does not measure the value of a shareholder's investment in the Fund. The value of a shareholder's investment in the Fund is determined by the Fund's market price, which is based on the supply and demand for the Fund's shares in the open market. Pursuant to an exemptive order granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Funds may distribute any long-term capital gains more frequently than the limits provided in Section 19(b) under the 1940 Act and Rule 19b-1 thereunder. Therefore, distributions paid by the Funds during the year may include net income, short-term capital gains, long-term capital gains and/or a return of capital. Net income dividends and short-term capital gain dividends, while generally taxable at ordinary income rates, may be eligible, to the extent of qualified dividend income earned by the Funds, to be taxed at a lower rate not to exceed the maximum rate applicable to your long-term capital gains. Distributions made in any calendar year in excess of investment company taxable income and net capital gain are treated as taxable ordinary dividends to the extent of undistributed earnings and profits, and then as a return of capital that reduces the adjusted basis in the shares held. To the extent return of capital distributions exceed the adjusted basis in the shares held, capital gain is recognized with a holding period based on the period the shares have been held at the date such amount is received. The payment of distributions in accordance with the Distribution Policy may result in a decrease in the Fund's net assets. A decrease in the Fund's net assets may cause an increase in the Fund's annual operating expense ratio and a decrease in the Fund's market price per share to the extent the market price correlates closely to the Fund's net asset value per share. The Distribution Policy may also negatively affect the Fund's investment activities to the extent that the Fund is required to hold larger cash positions than it typically would hold or to the extent that the Fund must liquidate securities that it would not have sold, for the purpose of paying the distribution. Each Fund's Board has the right to amend, suspend or terminate the Distribution Policy at any time. The amendment, suspension or termination of the Distribution Policy may affect the Fund's market price per share. Investors should consult their tax advisor regarding federal, state, and local tax considerations that may be applicable in their particular circumstances. Circular 230 disclosure : To ensure compliance with requirements imposed by the U.S. Treasury, we inform you that any U.S. tax advice contained in this communication (including any attachments) is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of (i) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code or (ii) promoting, marketing or recommending to another party any transaction or matter addressed herein. In the United States, abrdn is the marketing name for the following affiliated, registered investment advisers: abrdn Inc., abrdn Investments Limited, abrdn Asia Limited, abrdn Private Equity (Europe) Limited, and abrdn ETFs Advisors LLC. Closed-end funds are traded on the secondary market through one of the stock exchanges. A Fund's investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor's shares may be worth more or less than the original cost. Shares of closed-end funds may trade above (a premium) or below (a discount) the net asset value (NAV) of the fund's portfolio. There is no assurance that a Fund will achieve its investment objective. Past performance does not guarantee future results. https://www.abrdn.com/en-us/cefinvestorcenter ### For More Information Contact: abrdn U.S. Closed-End Funds Investor Relations 1-800-522-5465 [email protected] SOURCE: abrdn U.S. Closed-End Funds View the original press release on accesswire.com CEOs speaking at Reuters Transform Food Today Announce the First-of-its-Kind Livestock Carbon Inset Market has First Carbon Credits Verified for Sale GREENFIELD, IN / ACCESSWIRE / February 9, 2024 / Athian (athian.ai) announced the establishment of the first-of-its-kind voluntary livestock carbon insetting marketplace, with the first accepted protocol aimed at reducing enteric methane emissions and improving feed utilization by using innovative feed management products from Elanco Animal Health (NYSE: ELAN). This new carbon marketplace creates an opportunity for farmers to monetize their greenhouse gas emission reductions. Athian is verifying its first farms and creating, certifying and selling carbon credits within the dairy value chain. This means: Dairy farmers of all sizes now have the opportunity to implement on-farm sustainability interventions, measure the impact and participate in third-party verification for their greenhouse gas emissions reductions. The resulting carbon credits can be offered for sale in Athian's livestock carbon insetting marketplace. Companies in the dairy value chain (such as consumer-packaged goods companies and food retailers) can then purchase those carbon credits as contributions towards achieving their Scope 3 emissions reduction goals. With the purchase of these credits, economic value is returned to the farmer via the sale while supporting the U.S. dairy industry progress towards their own environmental commitments of greenhouse gas neutrality by 2050. 1 Over the long term, this marketplace will expand to other livestock & poultry. "Athian's first carbon credits for dairy are an exciting and crucial step as they demonstrate the ability to tangibly quantify and verify greenhouse gas emissions reductions and create monetary value for farmers for their efforts," said Paul Myer, CEO of Athian. "This marketplace, specifically designed for the animal protein industry, is different than traditional offsetting carbon marketplaces because it keeps the value-economic value as well as positive environmental value-in the animal protein value chain." Empowering Farmers with Economic Opportunities Despite widespread awareness of carbon markets by farmers, only 3% of farmers are participating in these markets today, according to a recent survey cited by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).2 Creating an inset market model that works with recognized supply chain partners makes it easier for farmers to measure and implement rigorous verifications, will help break these barriers to entry and accelerate progress. "As a co-creator and seed investor in Athian, we're excited to see the company reach the milestones that will bring new value to farmers and help them advance toward climate-neutral farming," said Jeff Simmons, President and CEO of Elanco Animal Health. "As a leader in animal health, we've focused first on delivering enteric methane reduction solutions to producers. If the entire U.S. dairy industry leveraged this intervention, it would avoid 4.7 million metric tons of CO2e emissions annually from enteric, feed and manure emissions. This is a game changer for value creation throughout the food chain, and it's just the start. Environmental sustainability needs to be grounded in farmer profitability." Elanco also developed UpLook", an insights-based engine designed to measure and monitor greenhouse gas emissions. The tool utilizes on-farm data and peer-reviewed science to identify key drivers of an operation's carbon footprint and track the progress of their sustainability efforts. UpLook connects seamlessly to Athian's cloud-based verification system to help farmers quantify their reduction efforts and certify carbon credits for sale. Enabling The Value Chain to Achieve Sustainability Goals Food companies and retailers have made public commitments to collectively reduce more than 100 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. Despite the progress in corporate target-setting, the reduction of Scope 3 emissions, which typically come from the production of raw materials like milk, has been a significant challenge. The creation of Athian's insetting livestock carbon credit marketplace provides companies in the animal protein value chain the opportunity to make meaningful progress toward their Scope 3 greenhouse gas reduction goals. Athian and Elanco are participating in the Reuters Transform Food USA 2023 event on Thursday, November 2, 2023, to speak more about this transformation. Enteric methane reduction carbon credits are now available for purchase through Athian's insetting carbon marketplace. Visit www.athian.ai to learn more and connect directly with Athian. Additional Resources: https://www.athian.ai/knowledge-hub ABOUT ELANCO Elanco Animal Health Incorporated (NYSE: ELAN) is a global leader in animal health dedicated to innovating and delivering products and services to prevent and treat disease in farm animals and pets, creating value for farmers, pet owners, veterinarians, stakeholders, and society as a whole. With nearly 70 years of animal health heritage, we are committed to helping our customers improve the health of animals in their care, while also making a meaningful impact on our local and global communities. At Elanco, we are driven by our vision of Food and Companionship Enriching Life and our Elanco Healthy Purpose" Sustainability Pledges -all to advance the health of animals, people, and the planet. ABOUT ATHIAN Athian's key mission is to help the beef and dairy value chains capture and claim carbon credits generated through on-farm sustainability efforts by aggregating, verifying, and certifying greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions, and monetizing those reductions for the producer through the sale of carbon insetting credits. 1. https://www.usdairy.com/sustainability/environmental-sustainability 2. USDA Releases Assessment on Agriculture and Forestry in Carbon Markets | USDA Media Contact Season Solorio +1.765.316.0233 [email protected] Investor Contact Kathryn Grissom +1.317.273.9284 [email protected] View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Elanco on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Elanco Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/elanco Email: [email protected] SOURCE: Elanco View the original press release on accesswire.com Elite Distinction Awarded for Commitment and Dedication to the Sitecore Community LONG BEACH, CA / ACCESSWIRE / February 9, 2024 / Oshyn, a digital experience implementation agency specializing in Sitecore, today announced that eight of its staff have been named Most Valuable Professionals (MVP) by Sitecore, a global leader in end-to-end digital experience management software. Mariela Pancho and Freddy Rueda were two of only 147 Technology MVPs worldwide to be named Sitecore MVPs this year. Mayra Olivo, Andrea Rosero, Augusto Davalos, Gustavo Villacres, Ramiro Batallas, and Leonardo Bravo were six of only 69 Ambassadors named worldwide. Now in its 18th year, the MVP program recognizes professionals who actively share their knowledge and expertise with online and offline Sitecore communities to help them best utilize Sitecore products to deliver premier customer experiences. Selected from more than 16,000 certified developers and over 30,000 active community participants, the 247 MVPs are truly an elite group. This year's MVPs were selected by a panel of Sitecore employees - ranging from developers to members of the executive team - for the quality, quantity and impact of the contributions they made in 2023. This includes the sharing of product expertise and advanced knowledge of the Sitecore platform to support partners and customers. "Sitecore has long been one of Oshyn's key partners, and we're thrilled that so many of our staff dedicated themselves this year into advancing their knowledge and giving back to the community. This effort translates directly into the expertise we provide and the quality of service we offer to our clients," said Diego Rebosio, Oshyn CEO. Oshyn, a Sitecore Solution Partner since 2007, provides services supporting the full digital experience life cycle from design planning to development through support and maintenance ... and beyond. "For the 18th year running, we're pleased to be honoring experts who have distinguished themselves through their technical acumen and commitment to helping others build great digital experiences," said Dave O'Flanagan, Sitecore chief product officer. "The MVPs are invaluable to the global Sitecore community, and they continue to impress us with their unique contributions." More information about the MVP Program can be found on the Sitecore MVP site: https://mvp.sitecore.com. About Oshyn Oshyn partners with some of the best brands and creative agencies in the world to create exceptional digital marketing solutions. For over 20 years, Oshyn has worked closely with dozens of marketing, design, and IT teams to deliver countless effective customer experiences in line with their business objectives. With over 60 developers, trainers, and analysts on staff (more than 30 certified), they've built a stellar reputation working with top brands including NW Natural, Point B, Arkansas Children's Hospital, Skyworks, Promedica, ALS Global, DMC Global, Minor Hotels, Dole, UMass Global, Wolters Kluwer, NEA Member Benefits, American Association of Critical-Care Nurses, Volkswagen, and Aetna. Learn more by visiting https://www.oshyn.com/sitecore. Contact Information Patrick Wirz VP of Marketing [email protected] 213-483-1770 SOURCE: Oshyn View the original press release on newswire.com. SPOKANE, WA / ACCESSWIRE / February 9, 2024 / HyperSciences ("the Company"), a pioneering developer and manufacturer of cutting-edge hypersonic acceleration boring technologies working to transform the mining and tunneling sectors by offering a potentially groundbreaking alternative to conventional drill & blast and tunneling-boring methods, today announced that it has engaged Integrous Communications, a premier investor relations firm, to enhance communication channels with investors and the investment community, providing insights into the company's ambitious growth strategy. Under the guidance of Integrous Communications, HyperSciences will embark on a comprehensive investor relations program, which we believe will benefit from Integrous Communications' proven track record in collaborating with leading companies to develop and execute an effective investor relations program. "We are excited to be working with Integrous Communications to elevate our communication with investors and the market regarding our growth strategy," stated HyperSciences' Founder, President and CEO, Mark Russell. "As a trailblazer in our industry, it is imperative that we possess a robust investor relations program to convey our strategy and progress effectively." "We are thrilled to be working with HyperSciences to enhance its investor relations program," said Rich Matthews, Managing Partner of Integrous Communications. "Our team looks forward to partnering with the Company to articulate its growth strategy and value proposition to investors, fostering long-term relationships with the investment community." About HyperSciences Established in 2014, HyperSciences is a pioneer in cutting-edge hypersonic acceleration technologies aimed at transforming the mining and tunneling sectors, offering a potentially groundbreaking alternative to conventional drill and blast as well as tunneling-boring methods. HyperSciences has offered securities under Regulation D, Regulation Crowdfunding and Tier II of Regulation A and is subject to ongoing reporting obligations. You can access these reports and other securities filings on EDGAR. For more information, please visit www.hypersciences.com. About Integrous Communications Integrous Communications is an independent communications and investor relations consulting firm providing a single source solution for financial, corporate governance, applied technology, and integrated corporate communications services. Headquartered in Austin, Texas with personnel situated across North America, the firm's diverse team of professionals has more than 100 years of combined experience. Integrous serves both domestic and international clients, including companies listed on the U.S., Canadian, Australian, and European exchanges. Forward-Looking Statements This press release may include "forward-looking statements" pursuant to the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. To the extent that the information presented in this press release discusses financial projections, information, or expectations about our business plans, results of operations, products, or markets, or otherwise makes statements about future events, such statements are forward-looking. Such forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "should", "may," "intends," "anticipates," "believes," "estimates," "projects," "forecasts," "expects," "plans," and "proposes." Although we believe that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, there are a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking statements. You are urged to carefully review and consider any cautionary statements and other disclosures, including the statements made under the heading "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in documents that we file from time to time with the SEC. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of the document in which they are contained, and HyperSciences does not undertake any duty to update any forward-looking statements except as may be required by law. The Company is "Testing the Waters" under Regulation A under the Securities Act of 1933. The Company is not under any obligation to make an offering under Regulation A. No money or other consideration is being solicited in connection with the information provided, and if sent in response, will not be accepted. No offer to buy the securities can be accepted and no part of the purchase price can be received until an offering statement on Form 1-A has been filed and until the offering statement is qualified pursuant to Regulation A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and any such offer may be withdrawn or revoked, without obligation or commitment of any kind, at any time before notice of its acceptance given after the qualification date. Any person's indication of interest involves no obligation or commitment of any kind. The information in that offering statement will be more complete than the information the Company is providing now, and could differ materially. You must read the documents filed. No offer to sell the securities or solicitation of an offer to buy the securities is being made in any state where such offer or sale is not permitted under the "blue sky" or securities laws thereof. No offering is being made to individual investors in any state unless and until the offering has been registered in that state or an exemption from registration exists therein. The securities offered using Regulation A are highly speculative and involve significant risks. The investment is suitable only for persons who can afford to lose their entire investment. Furthermore, investors must understand that such investment could be illiquid for an indefinite period of time. No public market currently exists for the securities, and if a public market develops following the offering, it may not continue. The Company intends to list its securities on a national exchange and doing so entails significant ongoing corporate obligations including but not limited to disclosure, filing and notification requirements, as well compliance with applicable continued quantitative and qualitative listing standards. Investor Contact Rich Matthews Managing Partner Integrous Communications Mobile: +1 604-355-7179 [email protected] SOURCE: HyperSciences View the original press release on accesswire.com NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / February 9, 2024 / Cisco Systems Inc. By Kyle Thornton The Social Impact Partner Spotlight series is a new series highlighting various Cisco non-profit organization partners that are helping transform the lives of individuals and communities. This blog features Cisco's partnership with Code.org, Darsel, Raspberry Pi Foundation, and Science Buddies, in honor of the incredible work these organizations are doing to advance education opportunities globally. In recognition of International Day of Education today, which was created to campaign for better education reforms and celebrate and advocate for access to education for all, Cisco is proud to spotlight some of its Education-focused non-profit partners that are helping to transform the lives of students and educators globally through their education programs, tools, and platforms. This year's theme, learning for lasting peace, underscores the importance of education as a fundamental human right, crucial for sustainable development and innovation. Code.org "As we celebrate International Day of Education, let's focus on what students need to succeed in the future. It is clear that Computer Science (CS) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are not only the most engaging subjects for students, they are critical for the future workforce. Every school should be offering students exposure to CS and AI education by next year." - Cameron Wilson, President of Code.org Code.org is a nonprofit dedicated to the vision every student in every school can learn computer science in K-12. They expand access to computer science in schools, focusing on increasing participation by young women and students from other underrepresented groups. In their first decade, they created a global movement to teach and learn computer science, leading to almost 100 million students enrolled on their platform and policies changed in 50 U.S. states and 70 countries. With AI already changing the global workforce and education, Code.org aims to drive the next wave of innovation by bringing AI and CS to over one billion students worldwide. Code.org's partnership with Cisco has brought its CS curriculum to millions of students, especially from underserved and underrepresented groups, by increasing the number of languages available, building technology to better integrate their platform with the IT infrastructure used by education systems, and enabling offline availability of their courses for students in classrooms with low or no Internet connectivity. Learn more about Code.org. Darsel "International Day of Education is an important opportunity to celebrate the progress and promise of education technology, but we must recognize that the benefits of technology remain elusive for the students who need them the most. The digital divide in education not only intensifies global inequalities in education but also impedes global economic development - and we can only overcome it by investing in solutions that are effective in low-resource settings. Our commitment to do so stems from the belief that education can and should serve as a catalyst for equality and prosperity globally." - Abdulhamid Hadir, Founder, CEO Darsel Darsel is a US-based 501c3 nonprofit organization which is focused on improving math learning outcomes in low- and middle-income countries through innovative education technology solutions that bridges the digital divide. The nonprofit's core product is a free chatbot that allows students to practice and learn math through simple low-bandwidth channels like WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger. The chatbot, which has been used by over 100,000 students, combines AI and curriculum-aligned content to create an interactive and personalized learning experience for students. Darsel partners with public school systems and works closely with math teachers to reach and motivate students. Darsel pursued this approach to reach large numbers of vulnerable students, but providing manual support to teachers quickly became a constraint to growth. Cisco's partnership with Darsel began in 2022 to address this bottleneck. A Global Impact Grant enabled Darsel to design and develop a teacher platform which streamlined and automated various teacher-facing functions related to data analytics and class management. The platform's successful launch in 2023 significantly improved the scalability of Darsel's program in Jordan and allowed it to rapidly grow from under 100 schools to over 2000. Cisco's collaboration with Darsel is now focused on replicating its success in other countries, including Nigeria and India where 100-school pilots are ongoing. Darsel's goal is to meaningfully improve learning outcomes for 100 million students by 2030. Learn more about Darsel. Science Buddies Science Buddies reaches over 20 million students, parents, and teachers with resources that reflect the latest research in how to effectively teach science. Highly personalized, we empower students to create individualized learning paths with easy-to-use tools that provide science and engineering projects, frameworks, and guidance. Our real-world, hands-on explorations are not only the best way to teach science, but they also make the subject relevant to students, positively impacting academic achievement and nurturing student interest in science. We make science literacy possible for everyone. Support from the Cisco Foundation has allowed Science Buddies to develop and deliver innovative new programs, content, and tools that make hands-on STEM learning more accessible for students and educators around the world. We've helped millions of students experience the thrill of scientific discovery and develop critical skills for future success. On this International Day of Education, we look forward to continuing to equip students around the world with the skills and knowledge required to become productive and engaged citizens. Learn more about Science Buddies. Raspberry Pi Foundation "Young people are growing up in a world where every aspect of life is shaped by increasingly powerful digital technologies. We need to ensure that all young people have opportunities to develop the skills and knowledge to participate in and shape their world. Through our programs and platforms like Code Club World and the Code Editor, at the Raspberry Pi Foundation we are delivering technology-based solutions which enable any young person, anywhere, to access high-quality computing education. Together with partners like the Cisco Foundation, we can enable any young person to learn in a way which is right for them." - Phil Howell, Chief Technology and Product Officer, Raspberry Pi Foundation The Raspberry Pi Foundation enables young people to realise their full potential through the power of computing and digital technologies, reaching millions of learners annually. The Foundation supports young people to build the knowledge, skills, and mindsets to explore computing, engage and create with digital technologies, and use these technologies for social good. In partnership with Cisco, the Raspberry Pi Foundation has extended its reach to young people who are taking their first steps in learning to code. Through Code Club World, a free platform for learners as young as age 9, over 400,000 learners worldwide have engaged in block-based coding. Learning with Code Club World takes place at home, as well as in an extensive global network of Foundation-supported, free coding clubs in over 40 countries, including India, South Africa and Kenya. To promote onward progression, Cisco is also supporting the Foundation's development of a text-based coding tool for Python and HTML/CSS. This Code Editor is designed for young people from the ground up, and it's optimized for use on mobile and tablet devices to increase access. Together, Cisco and the Raspberry Pi Foundation will provide thousands of young people opportunities for the future by enabling them to progress their coding skills anywhere, and on any device. Learn more about Raspberry Pi Foundation. To learn more about Cisco's non-profit partnerships, please visit the Cisco Foundation web page. View original content here. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Cisco Systems Inc. on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Cisco Systems Inc. Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/cisco-systems-inc Email: [email protected] SOURCE: Cisco Systems Inc. View the original press release on accesswire.com NSMV V to be delivered to California State University Maritime Academy in 2026 PHILADELPHIA, PA / ACCESSWIRE / February 9, 2024 / TOTE Services, LLC, (TOTE Services), Philly Shipyard, Inc., (Philly Shipyard) and California State University Maritime Academy (Cal Maritime) today celebrated the cutting of steel for the fifth National Security Multi-Mission Vessel (NSMV) destined for Cal Maritime in Vallejo, California. This ceremonial event signifies the start of construction for the vessel and occurred at Philly Shipyard's plasma cutting machine as the button was pressed to start the plasma cutting process. This event marks an exciting stage and milestone in the construction of the U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration's (MARAD) NSMV program. This is the last steel cutting ceremony for five contracted vessels slated to be constructed for the program. The NSMV program is designed to provide purpose-built, state-of-the-art training platforms for five state maritime academies in New York, Massachusetts, Maine, Texas, and California, respectively. In addition to providing best-in-class training for America's future mariners, the five NSMVs will be available to support humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions in times of need. The fifth vessel is contracted for delivery in 2026 to the Academy in California. In May 2019, MARAD awarded TOTE Services a contract to be the Vessel Construction Manager (VCM) for the NSMV program. Since then, the innovative VCM contract structure has proven to be an effective model in which the government benefits from commercial best practices to design and construct vessels that are built by union labor in a U.S. shipyard with U.S.-made steel and U.S.-made engines. "We've reached a historic milestone with the cutting of steel for this ship that will be used to train future cadets at the California State University Maritime Academy," said TOTE Services President Jeff Dixon. "We're grateful for the widespread, bipartisan support the NSMV program has received to help make this significant investment in the U.S. maritime industry possible." Construction of the NSMVs will recapitalize our nation's maritime training fleet, strengthen America's industrial base, and directly support more than 1,300 shipyard jobs in Philadelphia. "We are proud to welcome California State University Maritime Academy to our shipyard to celebrate the start of construction of its new training vessel, together," said Steinar Nerbovik, President and CEO of Philly Shipyard. "This is a special moment and major milestone in their history, and for the NSMV program, and it is a significant moment for Philly Shipyard. Thank you to our partners, suppliers and advocates for your support, and thank you to all of the shipbuilders who will support bringing this vessel to life for Cal Maritime." "This moment represents the culmination of efforts from our campus community, industry partners, congressional delegation and all who have been paramount in pushing this forward," said Michael J. Dumont, interim president of California State University Maritime Academy. "We are thankful to MARAD for recognizing Cal Maritime's significance in its mission of addressing the nation's critical needs. The NSMV V Golden State will undoubtedly aid in our mission of serving as a leading educational institution recognized for academic excellence and unique training opportunities in the Pacific Rim and beyond. Thank you to all at TOTE Services and the Philly Shipyard for all your work in making this exciting vessel a reality." Construction of four of the vessels are well underway and are in various stages of production at Philly Shipyard following the delivery of NSMV I, Empire State, to SUNY Maritime College in September 2023. NSMV II, Patriot State, is undergoing testing and commissioning, NSMV III, State of Maine, is preparing for launch, and NSMV IV, Lone Star State, just celebrated its Keel Laying on December 6, 2023 and had engines installed in the engine room units. About the National Security Multi-Mission Vessel (NSMV) Program The U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration's (MARAD) NSMV program is designed to provide a purpose-built, state-of-the-art training platform for the state maritime academies in New York, Massachusetts, Maine, Texas, and California, respectively. This next-generation training fleet will address a critical shortage of qualified officers necessary to crew government and commercial owned sealift ships. In addition to providing world-class training for America's future mariners, the NSMVs will be available to support humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions in times of need. The NSMV will feature numerous instructional spaces, a full training bridge, and have space for up to 600 cadets to train in a first-rate maritime academic environment at sea. State maritime academies graduate more than half of all new officers each year-the merchant mariners who help keep cargoes and our economy moving. Many also support U.S. national security by crewing military sealift vessels. In addition to being a state-of-the-art training and educational platform, each ship will feature modern hospital facilities, a helicopter pad, and the ability to accommodate up to 1,000 people in times of humanitarian need. Adding to the NSMV's capability, it will provide needed roll-on/roll-off and container storage capacity for use during disaster relief missions. Vessel specifications: Length: 159.85 m Breadth: 27.00 m Draft, scantling: 7.50 m Total berthing: 760 people Speed: 18 kts Deadweight: 8,487 MT About TOTE Services TOTE Services, LLC ("TOTE Services") is a leading U.S.-based ship management company that provides crewing and technical services to meet the needs of commercial, privately owned and U.S. Government vessels. Since 2015, TOTE Services has overseen construction and management of the world's first LNG powered container ships, activated U.S. training ships to support disaster relief and managed multiple MARAD vessels. TOTE Services, along with TOTE Maritime Alaska, LLC and TOTE Maritime Puerto Rico, LLC, are part of TOTE Group, LLC. TOTE Group is a member of the Saltchuk family of companies. For more information about TOTE Services, please visit www.totegroup.com/services About Philly Shipyard Philly Shipyard, Inc. (OTC PINK:AKRRF) (PSI) is a leading U.S. shipbuilder that is presently pursuing a mix of commercial and government work. It possesses a state-of-the-art shipbuilding facility and has earned a reputation as a preferred provider of oceangoing merchant vessels with a track record of delivering quality ships, having delivered around 50% of all large ocean-going Jones Act commercial ships since 2000. PSI is the sole operating subsidiary of Philly Shipyard ASA. Philly Shipyard ASA is listed on the Euronext Expand Oslo (Oslo: PHLY) and is majority-owned by Aker Capital AS, which in turn is wholly-owned by Aker ASA (Aker). Aker is an industrial investment company that exercises active ownership to create value. Aker has ownership interests in oil and gas, renewable energy and green technologies, maritime assets, marine biotechnology, and industrial software, and its portfolio includes companies like Aker BP, Aker Horizons, Aker BioMarine, Cognite, and Aker Solutions. For more information about Philly Shipyard, please visit www.phillyshipyard.com. About California State University Maritime Academy Established in 1929, California State University Maritime Academy is the only degree-granting maritime academy on the West Coast. Located in Vallejo, California, the campus serves nearly 1,000 students and offers undergraduate degrees preparing students for careers in engineering, transportation, international relations, business, and global logistics. The new oceanography degree program launched in the fall of 2020. Cal Maritime also offers a master's degree in Transportation and Engineering Management, as well as a number of extended learning programs and courses. Media Contacts: TOTE Services, LLC Heather Alves 904-704-6522 California State University Maritime Academy Aziza Jackson 707-654-1245 Philly Shipyard, Inc. Qurana Moody 215-875-8863 SOURCE: Philly Shipyard ASA View the original press release on accesswire.com This strategic collaboration is set to transform trading education with customized learning solutions and market insights. JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA / ACCESSWIRE / February 9, 2024 / SolisMarkets, a premier South African broker, is pleased to announce its strategic alliance with Traders Education, a top supplier of news, trading tools, and white-label education. This collaboration has the potential to completely transform the trading education space by giving traders at SolisMarkets unmatched access to a wealth of instructional materials and tools that will improve their financial literacy and trading proficiency. Expressing his excitement surrounding this development, CEO of SolisMarkets, Andre Van Zyl, said, "We are changing our traders' interactions with the markets in addition to improving our teaching programs. Giving our clients the tools they need to succeed in the complicated world of trading is a wonderful fit with our mission to build a trading community that is more knowledgeable and competent." SolisMarkets' collaboration with Traders Education introduces an era of enriched educational content tailored to the diverse needs of its trading community. Renowned for its exceptional educational resources, Traders Education specializes in creating custom content such as video news, tutorials, and promotional videos, thus promising a personalized learning experience for beginners and veteran traders. Echoing the sentiment of bespoke educational solutions, Francois Albessard, CEO of Traders Education, emphasized the collaboration's focus on customization: "Working alongside SolisMarkets, we're set to deliver education that directly addresses the unique needs of their trading community. Our goal is to craft a suite of educational tools and content that educates and resonates with every trader." This collaboration between Traders Education and SolisMarkets demonstrates both businesses' commitment to enhancing the trading education industry. They hope to foster a trading community that is more self-assured and knowledgeable by providing traders with the necessary resources and expertise. SolisMarkets traders now have access to a broad spectrum of educational materials, from basic trading fundamentals to advanced strategies. This initiative enables personalized learning paths, allowing traders to progress at their own pace and focus on areas most relevant to their goals. Furthermore, the collaboration introduces daily market news videos, providing crucial updates for making informed decisions, capturing market opportunities, and managing risks effectively. For additional information about this fascinating collaboration and to pursue the available educational materials, please visit www.solismarkets.com and www.traders-education.com About SolisMarkets SolisMarkets is an international asset management and banking platform dedicated to improving traders' access to online video courses on finance. Working under the fully regulated Eklavya Asset Management of the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) of South Africa, SolisMarkets aims to create a community of skilled traders who can navigate the ever-changing financial markets. Media Contact Organization: SolisMarkets Contact Person: Andre Van Zyl Website: https://www.solismarkets.com/ Email: [email protected] City: Johannesburg Country: South Africa SOURCE: SolisMarkets View the original press release on accesswire.com Virtue Law Group is Proud to Announce the Appointment of Gabriel A. Levy, Esq. as the New Managing Attorney NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / February 9, 2024 / Virtue Law Group is proud to announce the appointment of Gabriel A. Levy, Esq. as the new managing attorney. With an impressive corporate law and litigation track record and his commitment to excellence, Levy brings invaluable expertise to the esteemed law group specializing in debt relief, bankruptcy, and litigation. As a seasoned attorney, Levy has demonstrated exceptional skills and proficiency in navigating complex legal landscapes. His extensive experience working with agencies and creditors has honed his ability to negotiate debt settlements to his client's advantage. His appointment will go hand in hand with Virtue Law Group's objectives to ensure legal compliance for all clients who want peace of mind while handling their legal cases against creditors. A Graduate of New York Law School, Levy's legal expertise extends to federal court, where he is admitted to practice in the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York. Additionally, he holds admission to the New Jersey bar, where he has primarily focused on unsecured debt settlement against prominent creditors and banks, such as JP Morgan Chase and American Express. In his new role as the managing attorney, Levy will oversee legal matters related to contracts, regulatory compliance, harassment, and debt settlements closely with his executive team to provide comprehensive legal guidance and support to all their clients. "I'm excited to contribute my expertise and passion, especially for consumers that need financial help and security; together, we'll navigate complex challenges, uphold the highest standards of integrity, and drive success for our clients," Levy said. Virtue Law Group looks forward to leveraging Levy's years of experience to strengthen legal capabilities further and drive continued success in the financial and litigation industry. Virtue Law Group is Headquartered in New York, New York. They offer comprehensive legal services to clients looking to settle their debts, with a commitment to high ethical standards and offering value for money. Virtue Law Group strives to provide financial security to every client with a personalized solution. Contact Information Joyce Lee Director of Public Relations [email protected] SOURCE: Virtue Law Group View the original press release on newswire.com. Motorola Solutions, Inc. (NYSE:MSI) Q4 2023 Earnings Call Transcript February 8, 2024 Motorola Solutions, Inc. beats earnings expectations. Reported EPS is $3.9, expectations were $3.63. Motorola Solutions, Inc. isnt one of the 30 most popular stocks among hedge funds at the end of the third quarter (see the details here). Operator: Good afternoon. And thank you for holding. Welcome to the Motorola Solutions' Fourth Quarter 2023 Earnings Conference Call. Today's call is being recorded. If you have any objections, please disconnect at this time. The presentation material and additional financial tables are posted on the Motorola Solutions Investor Relation website. In addition, a webcast replay of the call will be available on our website within three hours after the conclusion of this call. The website address is www.motorolasolutions.com/investor. All participants have been placed in a listen-only mode. You will have an opportunity to ask questions after today's presentation. [Operator Instructions] I would now like to introduce Mr. Tim Yocum, Vice President of Investor Relations. Mr. Yocum, you may begin your conference. Tim Yocum: Good afternoon. Welcome to our 2023 fourth quarter earnings call. With me today are Greg Brown, Chairman and CEO; Jason Winkler, Executive Vice President and CFO; Jack Molloy, Executive Vice President and COO; and Mahesh Saptharishi, Executive Vice President and CTO. Greg and Jason will review our results along with commentary, and Jack and Mahesh will join for Q&A. We've posted an earnings presentation and news release at motorolasolutions.com/investor. These materials include GAAP to non-GAAP reconciliations for your reference. And during the call, we reference non-GAAP financial results including those in our outlook unless otherwise noted. Number of forward-looking statements will be made during this presentation and during the Q&A portion of the call. These statements are based on current expectations and assumptions that are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from these forward-looking statements. Information about factors that could cause such differences can be found in today's earnings news release, in the comments made during this conference call, in the Risk Factors section of our 2022 Annual Report on Form 10-K or any quarterly report on Form 10-Q and in our other reports and filings with the SEC. We do not undertake any duty to update any forward-looking statements. And with that, I will turn it over to Greg. Story continues Greg Brown: Thanks, Tim. And good afternoon and thanks for joining us today. First, Q4 was exceptional quarter. We achieved record revenue in both segments in all three technologies, including double digit growth in Video Security and Command Center, highlighting the strength and robust demand for our safety and security solutions that help protect people, property and places. Additionally, we expanded operating margins for the sixth consecutive quarter, generated over $1.2 billion of operating cash and strengthened our video security portfolio with the recent acquisition of IPVideo, creator of the HALO Smart Sensor. Second, our full year results were outstanding. In our Products and SI segment, we grew revenue 9%, driven by strong growth in both LMR and Video Security and we ended the year with record product backlog. We also expanded operating margins in this segment by 380 basis points, driven in part by higher ASPs and lower product costs. In Software and Services, revenue was up 10%, inclusive of the Airwave revenue reduction, highlighted by strong growth in Video Security, Command Center and our Services business outside of the UK. And we also generated record operating cash flow of $2 billion, up 12% versus the prior year. And finally, as we enter 2024, our robust backlog position coupled with the continued strong demand for our safety and security solutions positions us well for another year of strong revenue and earnings growth. And with that, I'm going to turn the call over to Jason. Jason Winkler: Thank you, Greg. Revenue for the quarter grew 5% and was above our guidance with growth in both segments, both regions and all three technologies. FX tailwinds during the quarter were $16 million, while acquisitions added $17 million. GAAP operating earnings were $738 million or 25.9% of sales, up from 25.6% in the year-ago quarter. Non-GAAP operating earnings were $870 million, up 6% from the year-ago quarter. And non-GAAP operating margin was 30.5%, up 10 basis points. The increase in both GAAP and non-GAAP operating earnings was driven by higher sales and lower direct material costs. GAAP earnings per share was $3.47, up from $3.43 in the year-ago quarter. Non-GAAP EPS was $3.90, up 8% from $3.60 last year. The growth in EPS was driven by higher sales and higher margins. OpEx in Q4 was $597 million, up $60 million versus last year, primarily due to higher incentives and acquisitions in the current quarter -- current year. For the full year 2023, revenue was $10 billion, up 10% with strong growth in both segments and across all three technologies. Revenue from acquisitions was $98 million and the impact of unfavorable foreign currency rates was $38 million. GAAP operating earnings were $2.3 billion or 23% of sales versus 18.2% in the prior year. The increase was primarily driven by lower direct material costs, higher sales, the $147 million ESN fixed asset impairment charge in the prior year and lower intangible amortization expense in the current year. Non-GAAP operating earnings were $2.8 billion, up $416 million and non-GAAP operating margins were 27.9% of sales, up from 26% of sales in the prior year, driven by lower direct material costs, higher sales, inclusive of higher ASPs and improved operating leverage. GAAP earnings per share was $9.93, up 25% compared to $7.93 in the prior year, primarily driven by higher earnings and the asset impairment charge related to the exit of ESN in the prior year, partially offset by a higher effective tax rate in the current year. Non-GAAP earnings per share was $11.95, up 15% from $10.36 in 2022. On higher earnings, partially offset by a higher effective tax rate. For the full year OpEx was $2.2 billion, up $178 million versus 2022, primarily driven by higher employee incentives and higher expenses associated with investments in Video and Rave. And the effective tax rate for 2023 was 21.9% compared to 20.1% in the prior year due to lower benefits from employee stock-based compensation in the current year. Turning to our cash flow. Q4 operating cash flow was $1.2 billion, driven by higher earnings, partially offset by higher cash taxes. And for the full year, we generated record operating cash flow of $2 billion, and record free cash flow of $1.8 billion. The increase was driven by higher earnings, partially offset by higher cash taxes. Capital allocation for 2023 included $804 million in share repurchases, $589 million in cash dividends and $253 million of CapEx. Additionally, during the quarter, our Board of Directors approved a $2 billion increase to the share repurchase program and an 11% increase in our dividend, which is the 13th consecutive year of double digit increases. Moving next to segment results. In the Products and SI segment, Q4 sales were up 4% versus last year, driven by growth in LMR and Video. Operating earnings were $567 million or 30.0% of sales, up from 28.4% in the prior year, driven by higher sales and lower direct material costs. Some notable Q4 wins and achievements in this segment include a $90 million P25 system and device order from a US customer. A $67 million P25 device order for emergency services telecommunications authority in Australia. A $57 million P25 APX NEXT devices order for a US customer. A $38 million P25 system order for the State of Arizona Department of Public Safety. A $31 million TETRA system order for a European customer. And a $13 million fixed video order for an international customer. And for the full year, Products and SI revenue was $6.2 billion, up 9% from the prior year, driven by higher sales of LMR and Video. Revenue from acquisitions was $15 million and currency headwinds were $19 million. Full year operating earnings were $1.5 billion or 24.3% of sales, up from 20.5% in the prior year on higher sales, inclusive of higher ASPs and lower direct material costs. In Software and Services, Q4 revenue was up 7%, driven by growth in Video, Command Center and LMR. Revenue from acquisitions was $15 million in the quarter and FX tailwinds were $11 million. Q4 operating earnings in the segment were $303 million and operating margins were 31.6%, down from 34.4% last year, primarily driven by the Airwave revenue reduction related to the price control. A close-up view of a mission-critical communication device in action. Some notable Q4 highlights in the segment include a $330 million LMR managed services renewal through 2034 for Denmark's nationwide public safety communications network. A $48 million Command Center order for the city of Chicago's Office of Public Safety Administration. A $20 million LMR service agreement for Spokane Washington Regional Emergency Communications and a $19 million mobile video order from a US customer. And finally, a $10 million command center order for the city and County of San Francisco. For the full year, revenue was $3.7 billion, up 10% on growth in LMR services, Command Center and Video. Revenue from acquisitions was $83 million and currency headwinds were $19 million. For the full year, operating earnings were $1.3 billion or 33.9% of sales, down 140 basis points versus the prior year, driven by the Airwave revenue reduction and higher acquisition related expenses. Looking next at our regional results. North America revenue was $2 billion in Q4, up 6% and $6.9 billion for the full year, up 9%, driven by growth in both segments and across all three technologies. And in international, Q4 revenue was $832 million, up 3% versus last year, driven by growth in Video and LMR. And for the full year, international revenue was $3 billion, up 11% versus last year, driven by growth in LMR and Video. Moving to backlog. Ending backlog for Q4 was $14.3 billion, down $88 million versus last year, inclusive of approximately $1 billion of backlog reduction related to the Airwave price control and revenue recognition for Airwave and ESN. Sequentially, backlog was down $15 million, inclusive of the Airwave and ESN reduction and $160 million of favorable FX. In the Products and SI segment, ending backlog was up $93 million or 2% driven primarily by strong demand in North America. Sequentially, backlog was up $99 million, also driven by demand in North America. In Software and Services, backlog decreased $181 million from last year and $114 million sequentially. Excluding Airwave and ESN, Software and Services backlog was up almost $800 million versus last year, driven by strong multi-year agreements in both regions. Turning now to our outlook. We expect Q1 sales to be up approximately 8%, with non-GAAP earnings per share between $2.50 and $2.55 per share. This assumes a weighted average diluted share count of approximately 172 million shares and an effective tax rate of approximately 23%. And for the full year, we expect revenue growth of approximately 6% and non-GAAP earnings per share between $12.62 and $12.72 per share. This full year outlook assumes a weighted average diluted share count of approximately 171 million shares and an effective tax rate between 23% and 24%. Additionally, we expect another strong year of operating cash flow with 2024 expectations of $2.2 billion in operating cash flow. And before I turn it back to Greg, I wanted to share some additional highlights. First, I want to give you some color on the technology growth expectations that are included in the sales guidance for the year. In Video Security and Access Control, we're planning for 10% growth, which is informed by the acceleration and strong adoption of our cloud offerings. For Command Center, we also expect 10% growth consistent with last year's organic growth rate. And in LMR, we expect to grow mid-single digits or high single digits when normalized for the impact of the UK Home Office. Second, I would like to share with you some exciting updates about our Video business, in light of two recent partnerships that support our growth expectations, one with Jabil and another with Google. With Jabil, we've entered into a strategic manufacturing agreement where Jabil will assume responsibility for our manufacturing operations at our sites in Canada and Texas. This agreement further optimizes our video supply chain, provides redundancy, future cost savings and scalability. Additionally, it allows us to focus on engineering, designing and bringing to market video solutions that serve our customers' security needs, while continuing to enable regulatory compliance with NDAA rules for the procurement of secure equipment. And with Google, yesterday, we announced a new strategic agreement with Google Cloud that harnesses the power of their latest cloud advancements to enable assistive intelligence, such as accurate and reliable video content, mapping and other AI capabilities. Google Cloud also enables Avigilon Alta, our fast growing cloud native fixed video and access control platform, which we introduced a little more than a year ago. Alta combines the power of our AI analytics with the ease and simplicity of a cloud delivered VMS that is increasingly preferred by some verticals like education. The rapid adoption in Alta contributed almost a quarter of our growth last year to total video and includes a higher subscription attachment compared to a traditional Avigilon Unity sale. And finally, we ended the year with a very strong balance sheet, including $1.7 billion in cash, a fixed rate balance debt maturity profile and our net debt to EBITDA ratio of 1.4 is our lowest since 2015, providing us with ample flexibility to continue to deploy capital and drive shareholder value. I'll now turn the call-back to Greg. Greg Brown: Thanks, Jason. First, 2023 was a phenomenal year for the company. We achieved [Technical Difficulty] significantly expanded operating margins, grew earnings per share by 15% and generated record operating cash flow of $2 billion. We also returned $1.4 billion to our shareholders through dividends and share repurchases and we strengthened our Video Security portfolio with the recent acquisition of IPVideo. Second, this past November, we announced our new brand narrative, solving for safer. This reflects our purposeful transformation centered on public safety and enterprise security and our sharpened focus on solving for safer communities, safer schools and safer businesses. Our solutions across LMR, Video Security and Command Center that are powered by artificial intelligence enable collaboration between public safety agencies and enterprises, connecting those in need with those who can help. And while we recognize technology is not the only way to a safer future, it does play a vital role. And finally, as we enter 2024, the momentum of our business remains strong. Funding for public safety continues to be a priority. Investments we've made in the portfolio, including our APX NEXT device. And by the way, the software applications that run on this device are driving higher ASPs for our products and strong growth in Software and Services. We're also seeing a noticeable acceleration of cloud adoption in Video Security that is driving margin accretive revenues in Software and Services. And with our exceptionally strong balance sheet, we have the opportunity to continue to deploy capital to drive long-term shareholder value. I'm extremely pleased how we're positioned and I expect 2024 to be another year of strong revenue and earnings growth for our company. I'll now turn the call back over to Tim. Tim Yocum: Thanks, Greg. Before we begin taking questions, I'd like to remind callers to limit themselves to one question and one follow-up to accommodate as many participants as possible. Operator, please remind our callers on the line how to ask a question. See also 25 Largest Economies in the World in 2024 and 12 Best Communication Stocks To Buy According To Hedge Funds. To continue reading the Q&A session, please click here. According to a report from The Wall Street Journal on Friday, Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, is discussing raising funds for an extremely ambitious tech initiative with investors. The report states that Altman is talking with investors, including the United Arab Emirates government. The initiative aims to increase the world's chip-building capacity, expand its ability to power artificial intelligence, and undertake several other things, with the cost expected to be several trillion dollars. The WSJ said its sources told them the project could require raising as much as $5 trillion to $7 trillion. The plans are said to be aimed at solving constraints to OpenAIs growth, although the WSJ notes they face significant hurdles, especially as the sum being spoken about is enormous and would dwarf the current size of the global semiconductor industry. The report states that Altman's new fundraising plans will take energy consumption into account, as AI facilities require enormous amounts of electricity. An OpenAI spokeswoman told the WSJ that the company has "had productive discussions about increasing global infrastructure and supply chains for chips, energy and data centers." By Sam Boughedda Mizuho analyst Jordan Klein told investors in a note Friday to watch semiconductor capital (semi-cap) equipment stocks due to the ... I'm a New Customer I'm a Returning Customer E-mail Address (or username, if registered via mobile device) Password Cboe Global Markets, Inc. (Cboe: CBOE) today announced its Board of Directors elected Erin Mansfield , former Managing Director, Global Head of Regulatory Relations and Policy at Barclays, and Cecilia Mao , Global Chief Product Officer at Equifax Inc., as new members to its Board of Directors. Additionally, its Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.55 per share of common stock for the first quarter of 2024. The first-quarter 2024 dividend is payable on March 15, 2024 , to stockholders of record as of February 29, 2024 . William M. Farrow , III, non-executive Chairman of the Board of Cboe Global Markets, said: "We are excited to welcome Erin Mansfield and Cecilia Mao to the Cboe Global Markets Board of Directors. With Erin's background as a financial regulatory and compliance leader and Cecilia's distinguished track record in product innovation and technology, Cboe is well-positioned to continue executing its mission to build the world's leading derivatives and securities network. Guided by the board's strengthened expertise, we are confident in Cboe and its associates' ability to maintain the company's position as a leading global exchange." Ms. Mansfield is a retired Managing Director from Barclays PLC, a position she held from 2003 to 2023. During her tenure, she served in multiple roles, including Global Head of Regulatory Relations and Policy, Global Head of Investment Banking Compliance, and Chief Compliance Officer Americas. Prior to her time with Barclays, Ms. Mansfield was a Vice President at Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC in their Fixed Income, Currencies and Commodities group. Ms. Mansfield holds a B.A. degree from Vassar College. Ms. Mao is currently Global Chief Product Officer at Equifax, having served in this position since 2020. Previously, Ms. Mao was with Oracle Corp. from 2014 to 2020, holding multiple positions including Director, Senior Director, and Vice President of Oracle Data Cloud. Prior to her time at Oracle Corp., Ms. Mao held management positions at Verisk Analytics, FICO, and other technology companies. Ms. Mao graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with a B.A. degree. Additionally, Joe Ratterman has decided to step down from the Board of Directors of Cboe Global Markets. Mr. Ratterman joined the Cboe board in 2017 as part of the Bats Global Markets acquisition. PARAMUS, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- UBS Private Wealth Management today announced that Financial Advisors Matthew Foley, Lawrence DeLuise and Christopher Butler have joined the firm. Together with their team, Foley, DeLuise & Associates, they manage more than $2 billion in client assets for ultra-high net worth individuals and families. Matt, Larry, and Chris are also joined by team members Jason Lipp, Deanna Wilson, Lori Macaluso, Greg Romano, Linsey Serafino and Emily Buske. Foley, DeLuise, & Associates joins the UBS Manhattan Market, which is managed by Market Executive Christopher DiMuria, alongside Market Directors Robert Sorrentino and Thomas Conigatti. The team will be located in the Paramus, New Jersey Private Wealth Management office of UBS, managed by Market Director Adam Kamm. Matt, Larry, and Chris are pillars of their community, and we are proud to welcome their team to UBS, said Christopher DiMuria, Market Executive for Manhattan at UBS Wealth Management USA. For decades, they have served high net worth and ultra-high net worth clients with distinction, helping them navigate complex financial decisions and generational family wealth management. We look forward to supporting the team as they continue to grow and deliver the full power of UBS to their clients. Foley, DeLuise & Associates offers a limited number of individuals and families boutique-like service, broad global resources and customized strategies to help them simplify life and spend more time pursuing what matters most to them. The team offers access to opportunities that go beyond day-to-day portfolio management, including next generation education programs, innovative philanthropic and legacy planning strategies, and family office experiences that incorporate lifestyle services. Matthew L. Foley, CPWA, CIMA, CEPA, joins UBS as a Managing Director and Private Wealth Advisor. Matt has more than 29 years of industry experience and began his career in financial services with Merrill Lynch in 1996. He serves a select circle of families whose significant wealth creates ongoing and often complex considerations. Matt holds the Certified Private Wealth Advisor (CPWA) and Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA) designations. A graduate of Villanova University, he also holds a bachelors degree in marketing. Matt is a board member of Evas Village in Paterson, New Jersey, and a former volunteer with the Jesuit Volunteer Corp in Salem, Oregon. Lawrence M. DeLuise, CFP, CPWA, CIMA, joins UBS as a Managing Director and Private Wealth Advisor. Larry has more than 27 years of industry experience and began his career in financial services with Merrill Lynch in 1997. He advises a limited number of C-suite executives, entrepreneurs, professional investors and affluent families with multigenerational wealth. After earning his bachelors degree in business from Ramapo College, Larry became a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (CFP) certificant, and taught in conjunction with Fairleigh Dickinson University. He also holds the Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA) and Certified Private Wealth Advisor (CPWA) designations. Christopher M. Butler, CEPA, joins UBS as a Financial Advisor. Chris has worked in the financial services industry since 2009 and joins UBS from Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. He serves as the primary advisor for the teams wealth management and wealth planning activities, focused most closely on next-generation and executive-track clients. Chris also manages the teams Corporate Services platform. Chris graduated from Iona College with a masters degree in business administration. He holds the Certified Exit Planning Advisor designation from the Exit Planning Institute. Notes to Editors About UBS UBS is a leading and truly global wealth manager and the leading universal bank in Switzerland. It also provides diversified asset management solutions and focused investment banking capabilities. With the acquisition of Credit Suisse, UBS manages 5.5 trillion dollars of invested assets as per second quarter 2023. UBS helps clients achieve their financial goals through personalized advice, solutions and products. Headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, the firm is operating in more than 50 markets around the globe. UBS Group shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange and the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). https://www.ubs.com UBS 2024. All rights reserved. The key symbol and UBS are among the registered and unregistered trademarks of UBS. For press use only. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240209287943/en/ Media: Christina Aquilina [email protected] Source: UBS HANGZHOU, China--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Alipays AI features drew nearly 600 million interactions during Alipay's signature annual Five Fortune Chinese New Year campaign in a short span of 12 days, from January 29th to February 9th. The campaign encourages consumers to collect digital Five Fortune cards in the Alipay app as they gear up for the most significant festival of 2024. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240209720572/en/ AI Theatre allows users to play as key characters in iconic scenes from classic films (Photo: Business Wire) This year, Alipay has introduced for the first time four AI-powered experiences for the Five Fortune campaign, namely "AI Theatre," "AI Fortune Hunt," "AI Photo Studio," and "AI Red Packets." These innovative features enable users to spend the fortune cards to create an AI-generated video or image, or earn more fortune cards. In the "AI Theatre," users can upload a photo and take on the role of key characters in iconic classic film scenes, such as works by the comedic genius Stephen Chow. As of February 8th, this feature has been used to generate 2.3 million personalized clips, allowing users to take center stage in their own cinematic moments. The "AI Fortune Hunt" challenge is the most popular means of collecting fortune cards this year. It invites users to decipher over 100,000 images generated by AI, each with the Chinese character Fu (Fortune) hidden inside. As of February 8th, users have discovered over 2.9 billion AI-generated Fu characters. For a glimpse of the AI Fortune Hunt feature, check out Alipay's TikTok video here. The "AI Photo Studio feature transcends physical barriers by bringing friends and family together in shared moments through AI-generated group photos with 16 customizable photo templates. Furthermore, the "AI Red Packets" feature offers users a fun way of sharing best wishes for the new year by utilizing AI voice and video synthesis technology to help users create personalized digital red packets with video covers featuring their own avatars. Launched in 2016, Alipays Five Fortune campaign quickly became a popular part of peoples lives in China during the Chinese New Year holiday period. During the Five Fortune campaign, users can collect digital fortune cards through various means, such as scanning the Chinese character Fu through the Alipay app's AR scan function, participating in merchant sub-campaigns, and so on. These cards, which represent good wishes, can be converted into monetary rewards. About Alipay In the digital era, Alipay has evolved from a trusted payment tool to an open platform that connects businesses, institutions, service providers, and other partners with consumers. Alipay enables partners from various industries to offer safe and convenient payment options. It also enables partners to communicate and deliver different digital services to their customers in China through Alipay mini programs, lifestyle accounts and other tools. The Alipay platform connects over 80 million businesses with more than one billion consumers. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240209720572/en/ Media Inquiries Yinan Duan Ant Group [email protected] Source: Alipay MONTEREY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Dole Fresh Vegetables, Inc. is voluntarily recalling from the market a limited number of Dole-branded and private label salad kits described below, which were processed on the same line as a cheese that has been recalled by the manufacturer, Rizo-Lopez Foods, for the possible presence of Listeria monocytogenes. (https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/rizo-lopez-foods-inc-voluntarily-recalls-dairy-products-because-possible-health-risk) This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240208760695/en/ (Graphic: Dole) Listeria monocytogenes is an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women. This recall notification is being issued due to the potential for cross-contamination of cheese contained in certain masterpacks by cheese potentially contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes from our packaged cheese supplier. At this time, we are unaware of any specific illnesses associated with our products. or by other purchasers of their recalled cheese. A listing of products subject to this recall is set forth below and includes Dole, Presidents Choice, and Marketside brands. The product lot codes are located in the upper-right-hand corner of the package. Consumers who still have any of these products in their refrigerators or freezers are urged not to consume the product and to discard it immediately. Recalled salad items were distributed in the states of AL, CA, CT, FL, GA, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NV, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, UT, VA, WA and WI. Additionally, these salads were distributed in the following Canadian provinces: Alberta, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Ontario, and Quebec. No other Dole products are part of these voluntary recalls. Dole retailers have been advised to check store shelves and warehouse inventories to confirm that no recalled product is available for purchase by consumers. Retailer and consumer questions about the voluntary recalls should be directed to the Dole Consumer Response Center at 800-356-3111, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Pacific Time. Dole Fresh Vegetables is coordinating closely with regulatory officials. Brand Product Description UPC GTIN Lot Code Starting With BIUB Dole Chopped Kit Avocado Ranch 71430000915 10071430000912 W019- W036 02/03/2024-02/20/2024 N019-N036 02/03/2024-02/20/2024 Dole Chop Kit Avocado Ranch Chop Kit Ranch A L'Avocat 71430000922 10071430000929 W022- W036 2024 FE 06 - 2024 FE 20 Dole Premium Kit Southwest Salad 71430017012 10071430017019 W022- W036 02/04/2024-02/18/2024 N022- N036 02/04/2024- 02/18/2024 Dole Cajun Ranch Chopped Kit 71430002063 10071430002060 W029- W036 02/11/2024- 02/18/2024 N022- N036 02/04/2024- 02/18/2024 Dole Premium Kit Endless Summer 71430010730 10071430010737 W022- W036 02/04/2024- 02/18/2024 N023- N036 02/05/2024-02/19/2024 Dole Supreme Kit Southwest Salad Supreme Kit Salade Du Sud-Ouest 71430017111 10071430017118 W020- W036 2024 FE 03 - 2024 FE 18 President's Choice Southwest Salad Kit Sud-Ouest Kit de Salade 60383023195 10060383023192 W034-W036 2024 FE 17 - 2024 FE 18 B018- B024 2024 FE 03 - 2024 FE 09 Marketside Chopped Salad Kit Bacon Ranch Crunch 681131305440 10681131305447 B020- B036 02/05/2024- 02/21/2024 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240208760695/en/ Media Contact: Bil Goldfield Director, Corporate Communications Dole Food Company, Inc. 818-874-4647 Source: Dole Food Company, Inc. SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Napoli Shkolnik and the other members of the PFAS Settlement Steering Committee praised U.S. District Judge Richard Gergels decision yesterday to approve a $1.18 billion settlement with DuPont regarding PFAS contamination in Americas public water systems. "We are delighted that Judge Gergel has approved the historic $1.18 billion settlement with DuPont for its role in PFAS contamination of water supplies. Funds will soon start flowing so the vital work of cleaning America's water systems can commence, said Paul Napoli, partner in Napoli Shkolnik and a member of the PFAS Settlement Committee, which also includes Elizabeth Fegan of Fegan Scott, Michael London of Douglas & London, Joe Rice of Motley Rice LLC, and Scott Summy of Baron & Budd LLC. The next step is approval of the $12.5 billion settlement with 3M and we await Judge Gergel's decision, Napoli said. These settlements are not just about the water we drink, but about the health of our nation, Napoli said. These settlements are a testament to our commitment to ensuring the well-being of every American.'' The settlements encompass public water systems that have identified PFAS detections in their drinking water sources, along with systems mandated to undergo PFAS contamination testing. These settlements were reached after five years of intense litigation that included 30 million pages of discovery documents, and more than 200 depositions. Funds from the settlements will compensate water providers for contamination with the chemicals used widely in nonstick, water- and grease-resistant products, as well as some firefighting foams. Described as forever chemicals because they dont degrade naturally in the environment, PFAS have been linked to a variety of health problems, including liver and immune-system damage and some cancers. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240208235431/en/ Paul Napoli, Partner [email protected] | (516) 639-6909 Source: Napoli Shkolnik JACKSON, Wyo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- LUXURY CARD announced its key sponsorship of the 2024 Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational. The Eddie is the premier event in the sport of surfingthe Super Bowl of Surfingwhich honors the late Eddie Aikau, a famed Hawaiian lifeguard and surfer who was lost at sea while attempting to rescue the crew of a Polynesian voyaging canoe. The 39th annual Eddie Big Wave Invitational will take place at Waimea Bay on the North Shore of Oahu and will bring together the worlds best surfers to compete and bring focus to Hawaiian culture. In conjunction with the Eddie Aikau Foundation, the competition fosters community philanthropy through advancing education, community service and assisting the preservation and perpetuation of Hawaiian history and culture. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240209635974/en/ Luxury Card sponsors the 39th annual Eddie Big Wave Surf Contest on the North Shore of Oahu. (Photo: Business Wire) We are incredibly honored to be a key sponsor for this years Eddie competition, says Luxury Card CEO Vic Memenas. The Eddies spirit of competition and commitment to community aligns with Luxury Cards commitment to excellence and dedication to providing the ultimate customer experiences. Foundation President Linda Ipsen added, We are thrilled to partner with Luxury Card in honoring Eddies legacy and helping to spread the Aloha spirit. About the Eddie Aikau Foundation The Eddie Aikau Foundation was founded in 2000 by the Aikau Family so they could help their community. It is a 501c3 tax exempt nonprofit organization and all activities, including the Eddie Big Wave Opening Ceremony and Surf Contest, are supported entirely by donations and contributions from sponsors. Mahalo to the Aikau Ohana & all of the volunteers who contribute their time and efforts to make these activities a success. The Directors are grateful & appreciate the contributions of all the sponsors and donors who help to perpetuate the legacy of Eddie Aikau as a true symbol of the Aloha spirit. About Luxury Card Luxury Card is a global leader in the premium credit card market with a mission to shape the industry through innovation, value and service. We believe the Mastercard Gold Card, Mastercard Black Card and Mastercard Titanium Card provide unparalleled rewards, including a 24/7 Concierge, first-class travel and leisure benefits and unparalleled customer experiences. With a card weight of 22 grams and 84 patents issued globally, our stainless steel and carbon credit cards outweigh the competition.1 Luxury Card members receive the best airfare and cash back redemption rates,2 with points that can be redeemed in any increment and never expire.3 Points for airfare are redeemed at 2% with no blackout dates or seat restrictions.3 For example, 50,000 points with Luxury Card will get you a $1,000 airline ticket and only a $750 airline ticket with the nearest competitor.2 Cardmembers redeem for cash back at a leading rate of up to 2%2 or for various experiences, travel, dining and gift cards.3 Luxury Card Concierge caters to Cardmembers every need. Available 24/7 by live chat on our industry-first Luxury Card App, phone and email, dedicated Concierge agents assist with travel itineraries, dining reservations, research and gift sourcing. We deliver first-class service anywhere, anytime.4 Luxury Cards in-house travel program provides an average total value of $5005 per stay in benefits and services at over 3,000 properties worldwide. Mastercard Gold Card and Mastercard Black Card members receive complimentary membership and unlimited guest access to more than 1,300 airport lounges around the globe with Priority Pass Select.3 Luxury Card is accepted at over 8 million domestic retailers in 210 countries with no foreign transaction fees.6 We are committed to providing top value, benefits and service to make your life simpler and your experiences richer. 1 Credit card weights from 11/02/2022 uscreditcardguide.com article, The Heaviest Credit Cards List. 2 Information as of December 1, 2023. The earn rates at which points can be accumulated vary among credit card competitors and can impact the relative dollar value of the redemption. 3 Conditions and limitations apply. For more information, please refer to the Reward Rules within the Terms and Conditions at myluxurycard.com, for additional information about the rewards program. 4 Restrictions, limitations and exclusions apply. See the Services section of myluxurycard.com to view your Guide to Benefits for a full explanation of coverages and details regarding specific time limits, eligibility and documentation requirements. 5 Average value based on a 2023 stay of three nights at either a domestic or an international property. Benets may include daily breakfast for two, room upgrade when available, welcome amenities, resort and dining credits, late check-out and early check-in when available and complimentary Wi-Fi. Actual value will vary based on property, room rate, upgrade availability, length of stay and use of benets. 6 Offer subject to credit approval. This offer is available through this advertisement and may not be accessible elsewhere. Other offers may be available. For complete pricing and other details, please see the Terms and Conditions for each of the three card offers: [Mastercard Gold Card Terms & Conditions], [Mastercard Black Card Terms & Conditions] and [Mastercard Titanium Card Terms & Conditions]. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240209635974/en/ Luxury Card Marina Kissam [email protected] Source: Luxury Card KBRA DLDs new market analysis finds yields on sterling-denominated debt outpacing U.S. direct lending market LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- KBRA DLD, a division of KBRA Analytics, recently released its inaugural European Private Data Insights and Outlook report on the direct lending market. The new quarterly analysis offers an unprecedented level of transparency on private credit terms in Europe including spreads, yields, fees, leverage, purchase price multiples, loan-to-value averages, call premiums, and more. The report takes a deep-dive look at fourth-quarter 2023, as well as provides an overview of full-year 2023. The data is broken down and analyzed by a range of measures including currency, deal type, and sector. M&A activity returned in Q4 2023 after a slow pipeline for most of the year. Buyouts accounted for 77% of euro volume in Q4 and 58% by count. Total leverage for buyouts inched upward for the first three quarters in 2023, then tightened to 4.3x in Q4. The regional breakdown in the dataset is broadly reflective of the wider market. The UK is the biggest contributor with France-based borrowers representing 8% of volume, just behind the 11% posted in the DACH regionGermany (D), Austria (A), and Switzerland (CH). Although the UK dominates the $1 billion-plus jumbo private financing segment, jumbo loans to borrowers outside the UK are increasing, with six deals notched up for continental businesses in 2023. KBRA DLD News has been tracking $1 billion-plus jumbo financing (including add-ons) for European sponsor-backed issuers since the first issuance in 2020. In 2023, direct lenders executed more jumbo deals than in the previous three years combined. The surge in 2023 was partly driven by volatile markets in 2022 that prompted sponsors to seek financing outside syndicated channels. Direct lenders are expected to continue to take share from liquid credit in 2024 by utilizing their flexibility to offer more bespoke terms and structures such as portability, and their willingness to finance dividend recaps as private equity firms seek ways to return equity to investors. In line with KBRA DLDs U.S. Private Data Research library, the European Private Data library will grow in outstandings via private data submissions, tracking terms on European direct lending deals on a quarterly basis. Visit dld.kbraanalytics.com for more information on KBRA DLD and its offerings. Members of the media may contact Adam Tempkin, Director of Communications, for access to the report. Subscribers may log in to find the analysis on KBRA DLDs Research page here. About KBRA DLD KBRA DLD was founded in 2019 and acquired by KBRA Analytics in 2022. The group focuses exclusively on the direct lending market, providing the private equity, lender, financial, and legal advisor communities with real-time news and a searchable database alongside proprietary data and analysis for the U.S. and European markets. KBRA DLD targets sponsored borrowers and specializes in cash flow-based structures including unitranche facilities across the lower middle market, traditional middle market and larger scale financings over $1 billion. In 2023, the group introduced the KBRA DLD Direct Lending Index, which serves as the foundation for our default rates and forecasts in the U.S. KBRA Analytics is a portfolio company of Parthenon Capital. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240209344273/en/ Media Contact Adam Tempkin, Director of Communications +1 646-731-1347 [email protected] Sales Contact Niki Masino, Head of Sales +1 646-731-1387 [email protected] Global Research Ioana Barza, Senior Director +1 646-731-1386 [email protected] Europe News Rachel McGovern, Senior Director +353 1 588 1192 [email protected] Source: KBRA Analytics Perch Energy, the nations largest pure play community solar servicer, joins the ranks of top purpose-led businesses as it continues to pave the way for accessible clean energy BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Perch Energy (Perch), a clean energy technology platform and community solar servicer that connects solar developers with consumers, today announces that it has become a Certified B Corporation (B Corp), demonstrating its commitment to expanding access to renewable energy for renters, homeowners, businesses and governmental entities. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240208228349/en/ Community solar servicer Perch Energy joins the ranks of top purpose-led businesses as it continues to pave the way for accessible clean energy. (Photo: Business Wire) B Corporations are certified by the non-profit organization B Lab, which requires rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. This certification reaffirms Perchs fundamental commitment to values-driven business practices as it expands and accelerates the shift to clean and renewable energy through the deployment of community solar. Community solar projects are built locally, connected directly to the utility grid, and allow everyone to access the cost-savings of solar power while supporting a carbon-free future. We are committed and passionate about accelerating access to renewable energy solutions like community solar that also make it simple and easy for consumers to achieve tangible energy savings, said Perch CEO and President Bruce Stewart. Our company takes pride in filling this dual role of clean energy access and electricity bill savings, and holds these values as our North Star. Its reflected in how we do businessinclusive of our employees, our customers, and our partnerships. Achieving B Corp Certification is a testament to this, and we are proud to stand alongside like-minded organizations who are in the business of being forces for good. To gain its B Corp Certification, Perchs environmental and social practices and policies were assessed in five areas: workers, customers, suppliers, community, and the environment. Perch was awarded an overall impact score of 93.4, far exceeding the 50.9 median score of businesses undergoing the assessment as well as the 80.0 threshold for B Corp Certification. Perchs core business focus of accelerating renewable energy adoption and lowering electricity bills for homeowners, renters, businesses, and government entities contributed significantly to its overall impact score. Additionally, Perch achieved the important benchmark of at least 50% of both managerial and non-managerial staff identifying as womenespecially noteworthy within the energy industry, with men representing 65% of the workforce of private energy companies. At Perch, our strength lies in our people, said Stewart. Our diversity in ideas and equity-based work is a reflection of our core values. Were encouraged to see these values recognized in our B Corp Certification and impact score, and were continually driven by the chance to align as a team to place our customers and our planet first. Another driving force in its B Corp score was Perchs advocacy and participation in legislative and regulatory proceedings to support the expansion of clean energy options, like community solar, for consumers of all economic backgrounds. Perchs efforts extend to maximizing social and economic benefits for low- and moderate-income consumers and residents of disadvantaged communities. Perchs robust employee benefits, significant equity options and opportunities for career growth have all been reflected in the overall impact score, in addition to the thousands of dollars and ample time spent volunteering and contributing to charitable causes. As of January 2024, Perch provides acquisition and management services for more than 150 active community solar projects owned by developers and asset owners throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Midwest. Prior to its B Corp Certification, Perch raised $30 million from Nuveen in its Series B round of fundraising in October 2023. Following its launch as an independent company in 2021, Perch has more than doubled the number of clients and markets it serves while rapidly expanding its mission to make clean energy options more accessible and equitable for all. About Perch Energy Boston-based Perch Energy (Perch) is an industry-leading community solar servicer that has helped renters, homeowners, and businesses save more than $26M cumulatively in total energy discounts since its founding in 2021. Recognized as a finalist in 2022 Company of the Year in the Cleanie Awards, Perchs clean energy technology platform makes it easy to sign up for community solar and save, while offering a suite of services to solar farm developers and asset owners to maximize ROI, from customer acquisition, onboarding, lifecycle management, and billing, to regulatory and policy expertise for navigating program rules. Perch is the largest pure play community solar service in the U.S. and, to date, has provided services for solar projects which have generated or will generate over one billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) of power across Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C., with expansion plans into California, Delaware, Illinois, and Virginia. Perch launched as an independent company from solar developer BlueWave in early 2021, followed by a $7.2M Series A funding and the appointment of President and CEO Bruce Stewart in 2022 as well as other key executive roles, and most recently finalized a $30 million Series B round from Nuveens Private Equity Impact team in 2023. For more information, visit www.perchenergy.com. Follow Perch Energy on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/perchenergy View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240208228349/en/ [email protected] Source: Perch Energy Murphy USA (NYSE:MUSA) Full Year 2023 Results Key Financial Results Revenue: US$19.2b (down 9.5% from FY 2022). Net income: US$556.8m (down 17% from FY 2022). Profit margin: 2.9% (down from 3.2% in FY 2022). The decrease in margin was driven by lower revenue. EPS: US$25.91 (down from US$28.63 in FY 2022). All figures shown in the chart above are for the trailing 12 month (TTM) period Murphy USA EPS Beats Expectations, Revenues Fall Short Revenue missed analyst estimates by 1.1%. Earnings per share (EPS) exceeded analyst estimates by 1.9%. Looking ahead, revenue is forecast to grow 5.9% p.a. on average during the next 3 years, compared to a 5.2% growth forecast for the Specialty Retail industry in the US. Performance of the American Specialty Retail industry. The company's shares are up 13% from a week ago. Risk Analysis It's still necessary to consider the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 2 warning signs with Murphy USA, and understanding them should be part of your investment process. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Discussion will be available via a live webcast on Regions Investor Relations page. BIRMINGHAM, Ala.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Regions Financial Corp. (NYSE: RF) is scheduled to participate in the 2024 RBC Capital Markets Global Financial Institutions Conference on Wednesday, March 6, 2024. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240209756445/en/ RF) is scheduled to participate in the 2024 RBC Capital Markets Global Financial Institutions Conference on Wednesday, March 6, 2024. (Photo: Business Wire)" /> RF) is scheduled to participate in the 2024 RBC Capital Markets Global Financial Institutions Conference on Wednesday, March 6, 2024. (Photo: Business Wire)" /> Regions Financial Corp. (NYSE: RF) is scheduled to participate in the 2024 RBC Capital Markets Global Financial Institutions Conference on Wednesday, March 6, 2024. (Photo: Business Wire) Regions executives will begin their presentation at approximately 11:20 a.m. ET on that date. Comments will be accessible via a live webcast on the Events and Presentations page within Regions Investor Relations website at https://ir.regions.com. A replay will also be made available following the event. About Regions Financial Corporation Regions Financial Corporation (NYSE: RF), with $152 billion in assets, is a member of the S&P 500 Index and is one of the nations largest full-service providers of consumer and commercial banking, wealth management, and mortgage products and services. Regions serves customers across the South, Midwest and Texas, and through its subsidiary, Regions Bank, operates approximately 1,250 banking offices and more than 2,000 ATMs. Regions Bank is an Equal Housing Lender and Member FDIC. Additional information about Regions and its full line of products and services can be found at www.regions.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240209756445/en/ Media Contact: Jeremy D. King 205-264-4551 Regions News Online: regions.doingmoretoday.com Investor Relations Contact: Dana Nolan 205-264-7040 Source: Regions Financial Corporation Support from existing investors Redmile Group, Invus and Sofinnova Partners Participation from leading US Healthcare Specialists funds including Aquilo Capital, as well as two large investment management firms Financing will enable the Company to extend its cash runway through the end of Q2 2025 MONTPELLIER, France--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Regulatory News: Sensorion (FR0012596468 ALSEN) a pioneering clinical-stage biotechnology company which specializes in the development of novel therapies to restore, treat and prevent hearing loss disorders, today announced a 50.5 million offering reserved to specific categories of investors (the Reserved Offering) through the issuance of 88,594,737 new ordinary shares of the Company (the New Shares) at a price per New Share of 0.57 (the Subscription Price) to the benefit of Redmile Group, Invus and Sofinnova Partners, existing shareholders, and leading US Healthcare Specialists funds including Aquilo Capital, as well as two large investment management firms. The settlement-delivery of the Reserved Offering is expected to take place around February 13, 2024, subject to customary conditions. Nawal Ouzren, Chief Executive Officer of Sensorion, said: We are delighted to announce todays successful capital raise of EUR 50.5 million. We are very thankful to the top tier new investors who joined us and express our gratitude to our existing shareholders who have reaffirmed their support in this transaction, Redmile Group, Invus and Sofinnova Partners. This strengthened shareholder base reinforces Sensorions ambition to advance its pipeline of innovative therapies intended to improve the quality of life of patients suffering from hearing disorders. The capital increase will enable the Company to pursue its relentless efforts in moving forward its gene therapy programs developed in the framework of the renewed collaboration with the Institut Pasteur. Firstly, SENS-501, our lead program, which has recently received approval from competent authorities to initiate its Phase 1/2 clinical study, Audiogene, in some European countries with France as first country. We are now entirely focused on the patients recruitment. The proceeds will also benefit our second gene therapy program, GJB2-GT, allowing us to complete the preclinical IND/CTA enabling activities in order to target Clinical Trial Applications submission in H1 2025. Khalil Barrage, ad interim Chair, Sensorion, said: We extend a warm welcome to the new investors who joined us. Their arrival in Sensorions capital not only strengthens our financial foundation but also propels us forward on our path to innovation and scientific breakthrough for patients suffering from hearing disorders. We are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and look forward to achieving new heights together. Expected next clinical milestones: H1 2024 SENS-401 in combination with cochlear implantation: Primary endpoint readout H2 2024, World Congress of Audiology SENS-401 in Cisplatin-Induced Ototoxicity: Preliminary safety and efficacy data H2 2024 SENS-501: First patient communication H1 2025 SENS-501: Enrollment of the first two cohorts of Phase 1/2 Audiogene trial completed H1 2025 GJB2-GT: Clinical Trial Applications Submission Impact on cash flow and use of proceeds The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Reserved Offering, which amount to circa 47 million (based on the aggregate Subscription Price), to fund the companys R&D activities through the end of Q2 2025, covering GJB2 CTA submission and the first two cohorts of the Audiogene Phase 1/2 clinical trial, which was approved in Europe in January 2024 as well as for other R&D and corporate overhead expenses. Based on its forecasted expenses, cash balance as of December 31st, 2023, which amounts to c. 36.5 million (unaudited), as well as the net proceeds from the Reserved Offering, the Company believes that it will be able to finance its operations through the end of Q2 2025. The company continues to pursue non-dilutive financing for the other assets. Main terms of the Reserved Offering Sensorions board of directors and Chief Executive Officer using the delegation of powers granted by the 8th resolution of the extraordinary shareholders general meeting held on December 20th, 2023 (capital increase with cancellation of preferential subscription rights in favor of categories of persons with specific characteristics) and in accordance with article L. 225-138 et seq. of the French Commercial Code (Code de commerce), have decided on February 8, 2024, to complete the issuance of the New Shares. The New Shares were issued at a price of 0.57, which represents a 0,96 % discount to the weighted average share price on the five days preceding the date on which the issuance price is set, in accordance with the 8th resolution of the extraordinary shareholders meeting of the Company held on December 20th, 2023. The issuance of the 88,594,737 New Shares will result in an immediate capital increase of 50,499,000.09 (i.e., a nominal amount of 8,859,473.70 and a total issuance premium of 41,639,526.39 and corresponding to a nominal value of 10 cents (0.10) plus an issuance premium of 0.47 per New Share), representing approximately 47% of the Companys share capital and voting rights outstanding before the Reserved Offering. Redmile Group, Invus and Sofinnova Partners who are existing shareholders and are also represented on the Board of Directors of the Company, will participate in the Reserved Offering for subscription amounts of 9.6 million, 9.2 million and 7.0 million, respectively, representing 19%, 18% and 14% of the aggregate gross amount of the Reserved Offering, respectively. It is specified that Redmile Group, Invus and Sofinnova Partners, who are also members of Sensorions Board of Directors, did not take part in the vote of the Reserved Offering at the Board of Directors meeting held on February 8, 2024. Following the settlement-delivery expected to occur on February 13, 2024, the Company's total share capital will be 27,567,553.10 divided into 275,675,531 ordinary shares, each with a par value of 0.10. The New Shares will be fungible with the existing ordinary shares of the Company and will be admitted to trading on Euronext Growth in Paris under the ISIN FR0012596468. Leerink Partners LLC (Leerink Partners) and Stifel Europe AG (Stifel) are acting as lead agents in connection with the Reserved Offering. Chardan Capital Markets LLC (Chardan) is acting as placement agent in connection with the Reserved Offering (Leerink Partners together with Stifel and Chardan, the Placing Agents). Stifel is acting as Centralizing Agent. Namsen Capital is acting as equity capital markets advisor. Shareholding Structure after the Reserved Offering On an illustrative basis, a shareholder holding 1% of the Company's share capital before the Reserved Offering and who did not participate in the Reserved Offering will hold 0.68% of the Company's share capital after the issuance of the New Shares. To the Company's knowledge, the shareholding structure, on a non-diluted base, before and after the Reserved Offering, breaks down as follows: Shareholding Structure as of February 1st, 2024 (non diluted) Shareholding Structure POST FINANCING (non diluted) Shareholding Structure POST FINANCING (fully diluted) Number of shares Number of shares (%) Number of Voting Rights Number of Voting Rights (%) Number of shares Number of shares (%) Number of Voting Rights Number of Voting Rights (%) Number of shares Number of shares (%) Number of Voting Rights Number of Voting Rights (%) Redmile Group LLC 46 428 571 24,82% 46 428 571 24,84% 63 270 676 23,0% 63 270 676 23,0% 81 127 819 26,9% 81 127 819 26,9% Invus / Artal Group 62 204 700 33,25% 62 204 700 33,28% 78 345 050 28,4% 78 345 050 28,4% 78 345 050 26,0% 78 345 050 26,0% Sofinnova Partners 40 469 458 21,63% 40 469 458 21,65% 52 750 159 19,1% 52 750 159 19,1% 52 750 159 17,5% 52 750 159 17,5% WuXi App Tec 5 249 608 2,81% 5 249 608 2,81% 5 249 608 1,9% 5 249 608 1,9% 5 249 608 1,7% 5 249 608 1,7% 3SBio 4 055 150 2,17% 4 055 150 2,17% 4 055 150 1,5% 4 055 150 1,5% 4 055 150 1,3% 4 055 150 1,3% Innobio 3 499 874 1,87% 3 499 874 1,87% 3 499 874 1,3% 3 499 874 1,3% 3 499 874 1,2% 3 499 874 1,2% SONOVA AG 2 941 176 1,57% 2 941 176 1,57% 2 941 176 1,1% 2 941 176 1,1% 2 941 176 1,0% 2 941 176 1,0% Cochlear 533 755 0,29% 533 755 0,29% 533 755 0,2% 533 755 0,2% 533 755 0,2% 533 755 0,2% New investors 0 0,00% 0 0,00% 43 331 581 15,7% 43 331 581 15,7% 43 331 581 14,4% 43 331 581 14,4% Sub Total Institutional Shareholders 165 382 292 88,40% 165 382 292 88,47% 253 977 029 92,1% 253 977 029 92,2% 271 834 172 90,2% 271 834 172 90,2% Officers 160 000 0,09% 160 000 0,09% 160 000 0,1% 160 000 0% 4 010 355 1,3% 4 010 355 1,3% Directors - - - - - 0,0% - 0% 1 365 290 0,5% 1 365 290 0,5% Employees & consulting - - - - - 0,0% - 0% 2 352 020 0,8% 2 352 020 0,8% Treasury shares 151 162 0,08% 151 162 0,1% - 0,0% 151 162 0,1% - 0,0% Free Float 21 387 340 11,43% 21 387 340 11,44% 21 387 340 7,8% 21 387 340 7,8% 21 683 340 7,2% 21 683 340 7,2% TOTAL 187 080 794 186 929 632 100,00% 275 675 531 100,0% 275 524 369 100,0% 301 396 339 100,0% 301 245 177 100,0% Lock-up agreements In connection with the Reserved Offering, the Company has entered into a lock-up agreement restricting the issuance of additional ordinary shares for a period ending 90 days following the execution of the securities purchase agreement entered into with the investors, subject to customary exceptions. The Companys management, Board members and shareholders represented at the Board of Directors who hold ordinary shares of the Company are also subject to a lock-up for a period of 90 days following the execution of the securities purchase agreement entered into with the investors, subject to customary exceptions. Settlement-delivery of the Reserved Offering The admission of the New Shares to trading on the Euronext Growth market in Paris is scheduled for the time of settlement and delivery, which is expected to take place on February 13, 2024. The New Shares will be immediately assimilated to the Company's existing shares already traded on Euronext Growth in Paris, and will be able to be traded, from their issuance, on the same listing line (ISIN code: FR0012596468). The Reserved Offering has not given rise to a prospectus submitted for approval by the AMF. Risk Factors The Company draws the publics attention to the risk factors related to the Company and its activities presented in section I.3 of the Rapport financier annuel for the year ended December 31st, 2022, which is available free of charge on the website of the Company (www.sensorion.com). In addition, investors are invited to consider the following risks: (i) shareholders stake in the Company will be diluted further to the issuance of the New Shares for the shareholders who did not participate to the Reserved Offering, (ii) the market price for the Company's shares may fluctuate and fall below the subscription price of the shares issued pursuant to the Reserved Offering, (iii) the volatility and liquidity of the Company's shares may fluctuate significantly, (iv) sales of the Companys shares may occur on the market and have a negative impact on the market price of the shares, and (v) the Companys shareholders could undergo a potentially material dilution resulting from any future capital increases that are needed to finance the Company. About Sensorion Sensorion is a pioneering clinical-stage biotech company, which specializes in the development of novel therapies to restore, treat and prevent hearing loss disorders, a significant global unmet medical need. Sensorion has built a unique R&D technology platform to expand its understanding of the pathophysiology and etiology of inner ear related diseases, enabling it to select the best targets and mechanisms of action for drug candidates. It has two gene therapy programs aimed at correcting hereditary monogenic forms of deafness, developed in the framework of its broad strategic collaboration focused on the genetics of hearing with the Institut Pasteur. SENS-501 (OTOF-GT) targets deafness caused by mutations of the gene encoding for otoferlin and is currently developed in a Phase 1/2 clinical study, and GJB2-GT targets hearing loss related to mutations in GJB2 gene to potentially address important hearing loss segments in adults and children. The Company is also working on the identification of biomarkers to improve diagnosis of these underserved illnesses. Sensorions portfolio also comprises clinical-stage small molecule programs for the treatment and prevention of hearing loss disorders. Sensorions clinical-stage portfolio includes one Phase 2 product: SENS-401 (Arazasetron) progressing in a Phase 2 proof of concept clinical study of SENS-401 in Cisplatin-Induced Ototoxicity (CIO) and, with partner Cochlear Limited, in a study of SENS-401 in patients scheduled for cochlear implantation. A Phase 2 study of SENS-401 was also completed in Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSNHL) in January 2022. www.sensorion.com Label: SENSORION ISIN: FR0012596468 Mnemonic: ALSEN Forward-looking statements This press release contains certain forward-looking statements concerning Sensorion and its business. Such forward looking statements are based on assumptions that Sensorion considers to be reasonable. However, there can be no assurance that such forward-looking statements will be verified, which statements are subject to numerous risks, including the risks set forth in the 2022 full year financial report published on March 30, 2023, and available on Sensorion's website and to the development of economic conditions, financial markets and the markets in which Sensorion operates. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are also subject to risks not yet known to Sensorion or not currently considered material by Sensorion. The occurrence of all or part of such risks could cause actual results, financial conditions, performance or achievements of Sensorion to be materially different from such forward-looking statements. This press release and the information that it contains do not constitute an offer to sell or subscribe for, or a solicitation of an offer to purchase or subscribe for, Sensorion shares in any country. The communication of this press release in certain countries may constitute a violation of local laws and regulations. Any recipient of this press release must inform oneself of any such local restrictions and comply therewith. Disclaimer This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy ordinary shares of the Company, and shall not constitute an offer, solicitation or sale in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of that jurisdiction. This announcement is an advertisement and not a prospectus within the meaning of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 June 2017, as amended (the Prospectus Regulation). In France, the Reserved Offering described above is exclusively carried out in the form of a placement to a category of institutional investors, in accordance with Article L. 225-138 of the Code de commerce and applicable regulations. With respect to Member States of the European Economic Area (including France), no action has been taken or will be taken to permit a public offering of the securities referred to in this press release which would require the publication of a prospectus (pursuant to article 3 of the Prospectus Regulation) in any Member State. This press release and the information it contains is not an offer to sell, nor the solicitation of an offer to subscribe for or buy the New Shares in the United States or any other jurisdiction where restrictions may apply including notably Canada, Australia or Japan. Securities may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration under the Securities Act or an exemption from registration thereunder. Sensorion does not intend to register the New Shares under the Securities Act or conduct a public offering of the New Shares in France, the United States, or in any other jurisdiction. This communication is being distributed only to, and is directed only at (a) persons outside the United Kingdom, (b) persons who have professional experience in matters relating to investments falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the "Order"), and (c) high net worth entities, and other persons to whom it may otherwise lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as "relevant persons"). Any investment or investment activity to which this communication relates is available only to relevant persons and will be engaged in only with relevant persons. Any person who is not a relevant person should not act or rely on this communication or any of its contents. This distribution of this press release may be subject to legal or regulatory restrictions in certain jurisdictions. Any person who comes into possession of this press release must inform him or herself of and comply with any such restrictions. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240208595169/en/ Investor Relations Noemie Djokovic, Investor Relations and Communications Associate [email protected] Press Relations Ulysse Communication Pierre-Louis Germain / 00 33 (0)6 64 79 97 51 [email protected] Bruno Arabian / 00 00(0)6 87 88 47 26 [email protected] Source: Sensorion PARIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Regulatory News: In accordance with Article 5 of EU Regulation n 596/2014 (Market Abuse Regulation), detailed information is available on the website of Tikehau Capital (Paris: TKO): https://www.tikehaucapital.com/fr/shareholders/regulatory-information Name of the issuer Issuer Identity Code (LEI) Trading Day ISIN Aggregated volume per day (number of shares) Weighted average price per day Market (MIC Code) TIKEHAU CAPITAL 969500BY8TEU16U3SJ94 02/02/2024 FR0013230612 1,462 21.0513 XPAR TIKEHAU CAPITAL 969500BY8TEU16U3SJ94 05/02/2024 FR0013230612 11,821 20.9571 XPAR TIKEHAU CAPITAL 969500BY8TEU16U3SJ94 06/02/2024 FR0013230612 12,367 20.8715 XPAR TIKEHAU CAPITAL 969500BY8TEU16U3SJ94 07/02/2024 FR0013230612 1,910 21.6012 XPAR TIKEHAU CAPITAL 969500BY8TEU16U3SJ94 08/02/2024 FR0013230612 2,000 21.7154 XPAR TOTAL 29,560 21.0189 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240209681435/en/ Tikehau Capital Source: Tikehau Capital 1.48 million private placement secured from a group of new investors Buyback will mark the end of TME Pharma's convertible bond program Proceeds to be used for buyback of all remaining outstanding convertible debt enhancing TME Pharmas profile for investors prior to imminent FDA regulatory milestones BERLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Regulatory News: TME Pharma N.V. (Euronext Growth Paris: ALTME), a biotechnology company focused on developing novel therapies for treatment of cancer by targeting the tumor microenvironment (TME), announces the successful closing of a 1.48 million gross private placement financing with a group of new investors. The proceeds will be used to repurchase all the outstanding convertible bonds held by Atlas Special Opportunities, LLC (ASO), thereby ending TME Pharma's convertible bond financing program. "This transaction marks a significant financial milestone for TME Pharma which fulfills our commitment to our shareholders to end the company's reliance on convertible bond financing and I am pleased to participate personally once again with the purchase of 363,637 shares in this transaction 1," said Aram Mangasarian, CEO of TME Pharma. "The repurchase of all remaining convertible debt will eliminate the possibility of any further dilution from these instruments as well as the associated pressure on the share price, and we expect it to have a beneficial impact on the market valuation of TME Pharma enabling financing solutions with more favorable terms suited for our long-term strategic goals. We would like to extend our thanks to Atlas for their support over several years during which other funding alternatives were scarce. We also welcome our new investors who join us as we are reaching a crucial inflection point with our lead asset NOX-A12. Having just announced unprecedented survival data from our GLORIA trial in brain cancer2, we are now poised to achieve our important targeted regulatory milestones, which include an approved IND and a decision on Fast Track Designation by the end of this quarter. With these achievements and a clear regulatory path in place, we should be in an excellent position to progress NOX-A12 through the next stages of its development, identify potential partners to work with us in bringing this innovative treatment to market as soon as possible, and to secure future financing with long-term investors." Financing details TME Pharma has received binding commitments for 1.48 million gross to purchase 6,727,270 ordinary shares at a price per share of 0.22 per share, at a 0.5% discount vs. the closing price per share on February 08, 2024. The transaction will be settled and closed by February 12, 2024. Investors, other than participating management members, will receive a commitment fee of 10% of the investment amount. Use of proceeds The proceeds will be used to repurchase all the outstanding convertible bonds held by Atlas Special Opportunities, LLC (ASO), thereby ending TME Pharma's convertible bond financing program. TME Pharma announced the termination of the convertible bond agreement with ASO, other than with regard to already issued convertible bonds, on April 18, 2023, having initially entered the agreement with ASO on April 23, 2020. The remaining net proceeds that are not needed to redeem the outstanding convertible bonds will be used to advance discussions with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) past regulatory milestones and for general corporate purposes including intensifying interactions with investors and potential industry partners. Shareholder and corporate authorizations The issuance of shares in this transaction relies upon the authorizations granted to the Issuer by its shareholders in the annual general meeting (AGM) on June 29, 2023. Issuer has completed and obtained all necessary corporate approvals for the private placement. At the AGM held on June 29, 2023, the companys shareholders approved the authorized capital amounting to 212,500, divided into 20,000,000 ordinary shares, and 1,250,000 preference shares, each share with a nominal value of 0.01. In addition, and if and as per the moment the companys issued and paid-up ordinary share capital will amount to 200,000, comprised 20,000,000 ordinary shares, the transitional provision outlined in article 37 of the companys articles of association will become effective, according to which the authorized capital of the company amounts to 900,000 divided into 80,000,000 ordinary shares and 10,000,000 preference shares, each share with a nominal value of 0.01. The completion of this transaction as outlined in this disclosure will trigger the above-noted transitional provision. Potential conflict of interest Part of the variable remuneration of management relates to corporate goals for advancing the development pipeline of TME Pharma as well as securing the respective funding. The participation of management in this transaction was discussed and approved by the full Supervisory Board of the company. Dilution resulting from the transaction Description Shares to be issued Total shares outstanding Dilution (cumulative) Shareholder starting with 1% on Feb 08, 2024, would then hold Outstanding shares on February 08, 2024 - 17,710,591 - - Shares Issued from Private Placement on February 09, 2024 6,727,270 24,437,861 27.53% 0.72% About TME Pharma TME Pharma is a clinical-stage company focused on developing novel therapies for treatment of the most aggressive cancers. The companys oncology-focused pipeline is designed to act on the tumor microenvironment (TME) and the cancer immunity cycle by breaking tumor protection barriers against the immune system and blocking tumor repair. By neutralizing chemokines in the TME, TME Pharmas approach works in combination with other forms of treatment to weaken tumor defenses and enable greater therapeutic impact. In the GLORIA clinical trial, TME Pharma is studying its lead drug candidate NOX-A12 in newly diagnosed brain cancer patients who will not benefit clinically from standard chemotherapy. TME Pharma has delivered top-line data from the NOX-A12 three dose-escalation cohorts combined with radiotherapy of the GLORIA clinical trial, observing consistent tumor reductions and objective tumor responses. Additionally, GLORIA expansion arms evaluate safety and efficacy of NOX-A12 in other combinations where the interim results from the triple combination of NOX-A12, radiotherapy and bevacizumab suggest even deeper and more durable responses, and improved survival. NOX-A12 in combination with radiotherapy has received orphan drug designation for glioblastoma in the United States and glioma in Europe. TME Pharma has delivered final top-line data with encouraging overall survival and safety profile from its NOX-A12 combination trial with Keytruda in metastatic colorectal and pancreatic cancer patients, which was published in the Journal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer in October 2021. The company has entered in its second collaboration with MSD/Merck for its Phase 2 study, OPTIMUS, to further evaluate safety and efficacy of NOX-A12 in combination with Mercks Keytruda and two different chemotherapy regimens as second-line therapy in patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer. The design of the trial has been approved in France, Spain and the United States. The companys second clinical-stage drug candidate, NOX-E36, is designed to target the innate immune system. TME Pharma is considering several solid tumors for further clinical development. Further information can be found at: www.tmepharma.com. TME Pharma and the TME Pharma logo are registered trademarks. Keytruda is a registered trademark of Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp. Visit TME Pharma on LinkedIn and Twitter. About the GLORIA Study GLORIA (NCT04121455) is TME Pharmas dose-escalation, Phase 1/2 study of NOX-A12 in combination with radiotherapy in first-line partially resected or unresected glioblastoma (brain cancer) patients with unmethylated MGMT promoter (resistant to standard chemotherapy). GLORIA further evaluates safety and efficacy of NOX-A12 three additional arms combining NOX-A12 with: A. radiotherapy in patients with complete tumor resection; B. radiotherapy and bevacizumab; and C. radiotherapy and pembrolizumab. About the OPTIMUS Study OPTIMUS (NCT04901741) is TME Pharmas planned open-label two-arm Phase 2 study of NOX-A12 combined with pembrolizumab and nanoliposomal irinotecan/5-FU/leucovorin or gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel in microsatellite-stable metastatic pancreatic cancer patients. Disclaimer Translations of any press release into languages other than English are intended solely as a convenience to the non-English-reading audience. The company has attempted to provide an accurate translation of the original text in English, but due to the nuances in translating into another language, slight differences may exist. This press release includes certain disclosures that contain "forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on TME Pharmas current expectations and are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Factors that could cause actual results to differ include, but are not limited to, the risks inherent in oncology drug development, including clinical trials and the timing of and TME Pharmas ability to obtain regulatory approvals for NOX-A12 as well as any other drug candidates. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of this date, and TME Pharma undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law. __________________ 1 AFM disclosure as filed with financial authorities was published on the company website. 2 TME Pharma announced final median overall survival (mOS) data reaching 19.9 months for NOX-A12 combination regimen in GLORIA brain cancer trial and survival rate 10-fold greater than standard of care in the press release on February 02, 2024. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240208140960/en/ TME Pharma N.V. Aram Mangasarian, Ph.D., CEO Tel. +49 (0) 30 726247 0 [email protected] Investor and Media Relations: LifeSci Advisors Guillaume van Renterghem Tel. +41 (0) 76 735 01 31 [email protected] NewCap Arthur Rouille Tel. +33 (0) 1 44 71 00 15 [email protected] Source: TME Pharma N.V. In collaboration with the Phoenix Chapter of the NSLS, this scholarship commemorates the enduring legacy of Dr. Buckalew-Hedin, celebrating her impact on community and higher education PHOENIX--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- University of Phoenix is pleased to announce a new scholarship opportunity open to qualified graduate students within the institution who also hold membership in the National Society of Leadership and Success. The scholarship, valued at $2,500, is specifically designed for a University of Phoenix student currently enrolled in one of its graduate Counseling programs within the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences. This initiative is a collaborative venture between the Phoenix Chapter of the NSLS and the University's College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, aiming to pay tribute to the Colleges late Clinical Director and Core Faculty member, Dr. Jamie Buckalew-Hedin. "I am privileged to announce this new scholarship opportunity for our graduate counseling students, shares Dean of the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Christina Neider. The scholarship is particularly special to us as it is dedicated to honoring the legacy of our late Clinical Director and Core Faculty member, Dr. Jamie Buckalew-Hedin, who touched the lives of so many with her dedication and service. Inspired by previous tributes to former employees through scholarships, Neider and her colleagues took the initiative to extend a similar honor to Dr. Buckalew-Hedin. Recognizing the positive impact of such initiatives, Neider reached out to University of Phoenix College of Doctoral Studies Dean of Operations, John Ramirez and College of Health Professions Program Chair Dr. Rich Schultz, to explore the feasibility of creating this meaningful scholarship. With the collaboration of John Ramirez, Dr. Rich Schultz, and the Phoenix Chapter of the NSLS, the team worked to craft the scholarship's details. Drawing on the extensive knowledge of College of Social and Behavioral Sciences Associate Dean Dr. Sheila Babendir and Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program Chair, Dr. Kelly King, the team worked to ensure that eligibility requirements for aspiring students were thoughtfully designed to align with the values of the College, and those that Dr. Buckalew-Hedin held dear. Dr. Buckalew-Hedin, an experienced counselor educator, earned her Doctor of Education with a focus in Counselor Education and Supervision. Her passion for mental health and substance abuse counseling had a significant impact on those she served. In 2020, she took on the role of Clinical Director at the University of Phoenix, directing the Counseling Skills Center at the Phoenix campus, offering free mental health services to the community and training future counselors. We are deeply moved to participate in honoring the memory of Dr. Jamie Buckalew-Hedin through this scholarship. It is a privilege to support students who exhibit the same passion and dedication to counseling that she did. This scholarship is more than financial assistance; it's a symbol of our collective belief in the transformative power of education and leadership in the counseling field, said Tierney Wade, President (Core), Chief Operating Officer of the NSLS. Scholarship applicants must be a University of Phoenix National Society of Leadership and Success Member currently enrolled in one of the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences graduate Counseling programs (either the Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program or the Marriage and Family Therapy (MSC/MFCT) program). Graduate students must be an active University of Phoenix student in good standing with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.85 and at least 50 percent course completion, and the opportunity is open to all NSLS members who have completed at least one step of their foundations of leadership training towards becoming a fully inducted member. University of Phoenix has a longstanding relationship with NSLS, and last year the University Chapter received the NSLS Success Distinguished Chapter Award. The University of Phoenix chapter was one of just three to be awarded this distinction in 2023. Through the chapter's leadership team and active engagement of its members, the University of Phoenix Chapter of NSLS has consistently demonstrated the organization's core values. The deadline to apply for the NSLS Dr. Jamie Buckalew-Hedin Annual Scholarship is Friday, March 1, 2024, and the winner will be announced on April 8, 2024. The Dr. Jamie Buckalew-Hedin Annual Scholarship is now open for application. Learn more here about University of Phoenix College of Social and Behavioral Sciences degrees. About The National Society of Leadership and Success The National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) is the nations largest and only accredited leadership honor society, with over 1.9 million members from more than 800 colleges and universities. The NSLS is on a mission to build leaders who make a better world by providing transformational leadership development programming that propels students on a path to success. About University of Phoenix University of Phoenix innovates to help working adults enhance their careers and develop skills in a rapidly changing world. Flexible schedules, relevant courses, interactive learning, skills-mapped curriculum for our bachelors and masters degree programs, and a Career Services for Life commitment help students more effectively pursue career and personal aspirations while balancing their busy lives. For more information, visit phoenix.edu. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240209753288/en/ Michele Mitchum University of Phoenix [email protected] Source: University of Phoenix Investing.com -- Oil prices were on pace to end the week higher on Friday, as ongoing violence in the Middle East showed little sign of abating after Israel rejected a ceasefire offer from Hamas. At 09:45 ET (14:45 GMT), the Brent oil futures contract expiring in April was up 0.9% at $82.40 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate crude futures climbed by 1.3% to $77.22 per barrel. Israeli forces launched a fresh attack on southern Gaza on Friday despite warnings of a high death toll among Palestinians in the area from aid groups and U.S. President Joe Biden. Israel had previously carried out a bombing on the southern border city of Rafah on Thursday following a decision by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to refuse to bring hostilities to a halt. Crude prices, which rose in the prior session, are now on track to increase by nearly 7% versus the prior week. "There had been suggestions, or at least hope, that we could see a ceasefire, which could have helped to de-escalate the situation. But clearly, the concern now is we see further escalation," analysts at ING said in a note. The Israel-Hamas conflict and its implications on broader tensions throughout the Middle East have cast doubt over supplies out of the crucial region, placing upward pressure on oil prices. Owens Corning (NYSE: OC), a leader in global building and construction materials, and Masonite International Corporation (Masonite) (NYSE: DOOR), a leading global provider of interior and exterior doors and door systems, today announced they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Owens Corning will acquire all outstanding shares of Masonite for $133.00 per share in cash, representing an approximate 38% premium to Masonites closing share price on February 8, 2024 and an approximate 46% premium to Masonites 20-day volume-weighted average price. The implied transaction value is approximately $3.9 billion, implying a purchase multiple of approximately 8.6x 2023E adjusted EBITDA2 or 6.8x when including synergies of $125 million. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240208177032/en/ The addition of Masonites market-leading doors business creates a new growth platform for Owens Corning, strengthening the companys position in residential building materials and extending its offering of highly valued products and brands. Leveraging Owens Cornings unique commercial capabilities and proven go-to-market model serving contractors, builders, and distributors, the company expects to build on Masonites strong track record of innovation, brand quality, and category excellence to further grow in the doors market. Founded in 1925, Masonite designs, manufactures, and markets doors and door systems, with a vertically integrated manufacturing model serving both repair and remodel and new construction demand. Masonite operates 64 manufacturing and distribution facilities, primarily in North America, and has over 10,000 employees globally. We are excited by this opportunity to add a scalable new growth platform for our company, said Brian Chambers, Board Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Owens Corning. Masonite is a market leader that complements our existing residential interior and exterior product offering and has consistently demonstrated top-line growth and margin expansion. The combination of our commercial, operational, and innovation capabilities allows us to accelerate our long-term enterprise growth strategy with a clear line of sight to meaningful synergies and increased cash flow generation. We look forward to welcoming the talented Masonite team to Owens Corning and working with them to deliver enhanced value to customers and shareholders. "Our world-class team is transforming the door industry with differentiated solutions for the home, said Howard Heckes, President and Chief Executive Officer of Masonite. The combination with Owens Corning enables the acceleration of our Doors That Do More strategy, while delivering immediate and substantial value to our shareholders. This agreement brings together two storied companies with a common focus on innovation and making life better at home for the people who use our products every day. As we begin our next chapter after nearly 100 years in business, I am looking forward to Masonite joining the Owens Corning team. Strategic and Financial Benefits Expands Owens Cornings Leadership Position in Branded Residential Building Products : The acquisition of Masonite and entry into doors adds a highly complementary line of innovative products and advances Owens Cornings strategy to expand its building materials offering in residential applications. Both companies provide best in class products and brands, focus on building strong customer partnerships, and differentiate through quality, service, sustainability, and innovation. With the acquisition, Owens Cornings revenue generated from North American residential applications will grow to 60% of its total revenue. : The acquisition of Masonite and entry into doors adds a highly complementary line of innovative products and advances Owens Cornings strategy to expand its building materials offering in residential applications. Both companies provide best in class products and brands, focus on building strong customer partnerships, and differentiate through quality, service, sustainability, and innovation. With the acquisition, Owens Cornings revenue generated from North American residential applications will grow to 60% of its total revenue. Creates Scalable New Growth Platform Leveraging Combined Commercial, Operational, and Innovation Capabilities : Owens Corning expects to leverage both companies best in class brands, extensive customer and channel knowledge, manufacturing excellence, and material science expertise to grow Masonites top-line reaching adjusted EBITDA margins of approximately 20%. The acquisition also increases Owens Cornings total addressable market by $27 billion and creates a platform to drive new growth opportunities in other product adjacencies. : Owens Corning expects to leverage both companies best in class brands, extensive customer and channel knowledge, manufacturing excellence, and material science expertise to grow Masonites top-line reaching adjusted EBITDA margins of approximately 20%. The acquisition also increases Owens Cornings total addressable market by $27 billion and creates a platform to drive new growth opportunities in other product adjacencies. Enhances Owens Cornings Attractive Financial Profile : With this transaction, Owens Corning grows revenue to $12.6 billion, with adjusted EBITDA of $2.9 billion on a synergized pro forma basis1 and with reduced ongoing capital intensity. Owens Corning expects cost synergies of approximately $125 million annually, generated through scale and operational savings, with the majority realized by the end of Year 2 post-close. The acquisition drives meaningful shareholder value creation with ROIC exceeding Owens Cornings cost of capital by the end of Year 3 post-close. : With this transaction, Owens Corning grows revenue to $12.6 billion, with adjusted EBITDA of $2.9 billion on a synergized pro forma basis1 and with reduced ongoing capital intensity. Owens Corning expects cost synergies of approximately $125 million annually, generated through scale and operational savings, with the majority realized by the end of Year 2 post-close. The acquisition drives meaningful shareholder value creation with ROIC exceeding Owens Cornings cost of capital by the end of Year 3 post-close. Generates Strong Free Cash Flow to Support Rapid Deleveraging and Capital Allocation Strategy : On a synergized basis, the acquisition is expected to be low double-digit percentage accretive to free cash flow by the end of 2025. After accounting for transaction financing, Owens Corning expects net debt-to-EBITDA well within its stated 2-3x target range, deleveraging to 2.0x by year-end 2024. Owens Corning is committed to maintaining its solid investment grade rating and returning approximately 50% of free cash flow to shareholders over time. Transaction Details, Timing, and Approvals The transaction will be implemented by way of a statutory plan of arrangement pursuant to the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia). The Boards of Directors of both companies have unanimously approved the transaction. The transaction is expected to close mid-2024, subject to Masonite shareholder approval, regulatory approvals, and other customary closing conditions including the issuance of interim and final orders by the Supreme Court of British Columbia approving the plan of arrangement. The transaction will be financed by cash on hand and committed debt financing of $3 billion provided by Morgan Stanley Senior Funding, Inc. Following the closing, Masonite will operate as a reportable segment and will maintain Masonites brands and a presence in Tampa, Florida. Advisors Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC is acting as lead financial advisor to Owens Corning, Lazard Freres & Co. LLC provided additional advice to the Owens Corning Board of Directors, and Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP is acting as Owens Cornings legal counsel, and Stikeman Elliott LLP is acting as Owens Corning's Canadian legal counsel. Goldman Sachs is acting as lead financial advisor, and Jefferies also is acting as financial advisor, to Masonite. Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz is acting as Masonites legal counsel, and Cassels Brock & Blackwell, LLP is acting as Masonites Canadian legal counsel. Strategic Review of Glass Reinforcements Business Separately, Owens Corning has also announced today the launch of a formal strategic review process for its glass reinforcements business, which is part of the companys Composites segment. That press release can be found at https://newsroom.owenscorning.com Conference Call Details Owens Corning will host a conference call and webcast today: Friday, February 9, 2024 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time Callers Live dial-in telephone number: U.S. 1.833.470.1428; Canada 1.833.950.0062; and other international locations +1.404.975.4839. Entry number: 396050 (Please dial in 10-15 minutes before conference call start time) (Please dial in 10-15 minutes before conference call start time) Live webcast: https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/893218776 Telephone and Webcast Replay Telephone replay will be available one hour after the end of the call through February 16, 2024. In the U.S., call 1.866.813.9403. In Canada, call 1.226.828.7578. In other international locations, call +1.929.458.6194. Conference replay number: 419249 Webcast replay will be available using the above link. As previously announced, Owens Corning and Masonite will release their fourth-quarter and full-year 2023 earnings results on February 14, 2024, and February 19, 2024, respectively. Masonite has cancelled its conference call for February 20, 2024. Owens Corning (NYSE: OC), a global building and construction materials leader, today announced that the company has decided to review strategic alternatives for its global glass reinforcements (GR) business. The decision to explore alternatives for the GR business is consistent with the companys strategy to focus on building and construction materials. The business, which operates within the companys Composites segment, manufactures, fabricates, and sells glass fiber reinforcements in a variety of product forms. The GR business generates annual revenues of approximately $1.3 billion and has operations in 11 countries, with 18 manufacturing facilities. The business supplies a wide variety of glass fiber products for applications in wind energy, infrastructure, industrial, transportation, and consumer markets. Owens Cornings vertically integrated glass nonwovens business that supports the Roofing segment and other building products customers, along with the recently acquired WearDeck business, remain core activities of the company and are out of the scope of this evaluation. Brian Chambers, Board Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Owens Corning, said, Our Board and management team regularly review strategic opportunities with a goal to maximize shareholder value. Through this disciplined approach to capital allocation, we have taken actions over the past several years to optimize our performance and have concluded it is the right time to explore options for our glass reinforcements business as we continue to focus on strengthening our position in building and construction materials." Were proud of our 85-year pioneering legacy in glass reinforcements products and technology, said Chambers. Our talented glass reinforcements team has consistently produced differentiated, high-quality products based on our material science expertise, deep technical knowledge, and broad application experience. We have built market-leading positions in key regions and applications, including renewable energy, which creates the opportunity to operate as a core business within another company or as a stand-alone entity focused more on industrial end markets. Throughout our review, we are committed to maintaining our strong customer relationships with the same high standards and close collaboration. The company has retained Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC as financial advisor to assist in the review of strategic alternatives. A range of options are under consideration, including a potential sale, spinoff, or other strategic option. There can be no assurance that the strategic review will result in any transaction or other outcome. The company has not set a timetable for completion of the review and does not intend to disclose developments or provide updates on the progress or status of the review unless and until it deems further disclosure is appropriate or required. Paid press release content from Evertise Financial. The StreetInsider.com news staff was not involved in its creation. NEOs Neo X TestNet Alpha Version, focusing on stability and interoperability, garners strong developer interest, highlighting its potential as a leading smart contract platform shaping the future of blockchain. Oslo, Norway, February 9, 2024 NEO, a leading blockchain platform for smart contracts, continues to push boundaries with the newest launch of the Alpha Version of Neo X TestNet. This marks a significant step towards the future of NEO, offering enhanced performance, interoperability, and a platform for developers to explore innovative applications. In this article, Dylan Peter Nestle, a Norne Securities expert, illuminates the recent advancements in NEOs network, discussing the potential benefits these updates bring to the overall network. Neo X TestNet Alpha Version Features Stability and Performance Enhancements Neo X TestNets Alpha Version focuses on strengthening stability and performance. The new release introduces multi-node consensus, aiming to create a more reliable and robust network. This change is expected to result in a smoother and more resilient user experience. The Neo X TestNet Alpha incorporates an interoperability layer with the Neo N3 TestNet for token migration, alongside other features intended to enhance user experience and efficiency. Consensus Module Improvements Modifications to the dBFT engines RPC API methods have improved communication protocols within the network. Transaction-requesting functionality has also been introduced, leading to enhanced consistency in the consensus mechanism. Adjustments to the block coin base and complexity sections now provide more pertinent Neo X-specific information for governing and consensus stabilization. Native Bridge for Interoperability The Alpha Version features a bridge mechanism dubbed native bridge. This technical solution facilitates seamless token and data exchange between Neo X, operating on the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), and Neo N3, utilizing the NeoVM. Security is enhanced through a decoupled architecture, where bridge validators and relayers fulfil distinct roles. With seven bridge auditors ensuring the legitimacy of token and data transfers using a unique data structure, the native bridge is set to play a pivotal role in fostering interoperability. While the current focus is on GAS, Neo has plans to extend support to other tokens and data in later iterations. The release also includes a bridge dApp, adding another layer of accessibility and functionality. Neo X TestNet Adoption and Community Engagement The response to the Neo X TestNet has been overwhelming. Over 30,000 developers and clients have expressed interest in participating, eager to explore the platforms potential. Recognizing this enthusiasm, NEO has established an Early-Access Bunch, inviting select developers to test and co-build alongside the core team actively. This collaborative approach ensures valuable feedback is incorporated into the development process, shaping the future of Neo X according to real-world needs and aspirations. However, its crucial to note that the TestNet caters primarily to experienced developers at this stage. Its primary purpose is to facilitate experimentation and exchange of ideas with the core team, driving innovative solutions. Non-developer users are encouraged to stay tuned, as future iterations will open doors to wider public participation. Riding the Growth Wave: Price Performance and Market Recognition Beyond the technical advancements, NEOs growth trajectory shines through its impressive price performance. At the time of writing, NEO is priced at $11.17, reflecting a 36.9% increase over the past year. The trading volume of NEO in the last 24 hours stands at $65,736,495, marking a 4.70% increase from the previous day and indicating a recent surge in market activity. NEOs price increase of 7.00% in the last seven days outpaces the global cryptocurrency market, which has seen a 3.80% increase. Additionally, when compared to similar Smart Contract Platform cryptocurrencies, NEOs performance is even more remarkable, boasting a 2.30% increase. This positive performance reflects the growing recognition of NEOs potential. Developers are drawn to its robust and innovative platform, while investors appreciate its strong fundamentals and commitment to growth. As Neo X continues to evolve, attracting leading developers and fostering groundbreaking projects, its upward trajectory is likely to persist. Beyond the Horizon: Shaping the Future of Blockchain The Neo X TestNet represents just the first step in a much larger vision. As development progresses, the platform will open to wider public participation, enabling diverse use cases and fostering a vibrant ecosystem. Neo X holds the potential to transform various industries, ranging from DeFi and NFTs to supply chain management and identity verification. NEOs ongoing collaboration with industry leaders and academic institutions further emphasizes this future-oriented approach. By combining their expertise with the innovative potential of Neo X, they aim to address real-world challenges and advance the adoption of blockchain technology on a global scale. In conclusion, the Alpha Version of Neo X TestNet represents a significant stride forward for Neo, demonstrating its commitment to innovation and user-centric blockchain solutions. With a growing community of developers actively engaged in testing and refining the platform, Neo X is poised to make a lasting impact on the blockchain landscape. As the journey continues, anticipation builds for the future iterations that will shape the next era of Neos blockchain evolution. Important notice: This article is purely informational and doesnt offer trading or financial advice. Its content is not intended to be investment advice. We do not guarantee the validity of the information, especially when it pertains to third-party references or hyperlinks. Contact Information: Name: Norne Securities Organization: Norne Securities Email: [email protected] Website: https://nornesecurities.com/ Address: Dronning Eufemias gate 12, 0191 Oslo, Norway FILE PHOTO: The logo of the Times Square Disney store is seen in Times Square, New York City, U.S. December 5, 2019. REUTERS/Nick Pfosi/File Photo By Dawn Chmielewski (Reuters) -Walt Disney is harnessing artificial intelligence to power a new advertising tool that will help brands tailor their commercials to fit the mood of specific scenes within a movie or television series. Dubbed "Disney's Magic Words," this tool introduces a new form of contextual advertising for the Disney+ and Hulu streaming services. It uses a combination of AI and machine learning to analyze and tag scenes across its library, identifying the contents, brands, images and mood. Brands can use these descriptive tags, known as metadata, to identify a specific scene or mood and then personalize messaging to match. "What that means is leaving broad demos (demographics) behind and buying specific audiences," said Geoffrey Calabrese, Omnicom Media Group's chief investment officer. "These magic words are literally going to be able to connect me to the emotions of the consumer, at an audience level. And for us, that's really a game changer." Omnicom is one of six global advertising companies taking part in an early beta test of this advertising product, Disney told Reuters. The other beta partners are Dentsu, GroupM, Horizon Media, IPG Mediabrands and Publicis Media. The company announced the new ad features last month, at a showcase at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. Rita Ferro, Disney's global head of ad sales, said the feature allows advertisers to maximize the impact of their messages "because it resonates with concepts that the viewers experience." Disney's investment in streaming ad technology comes as advertisers are moving away from broadcast and cable TV, along with viewers. The company's advertising revenue fell nearly 3% in its fiscal 2024 first quarter to $3.35 billion, according to LSEG, reflecting declines in traditional TV viewership. Researcher eMarketer estimated Disney+ accounted for about $790 million in revenue last year. Disney does not report its advertising revenue. CEO Bob Iger told investors during the company's quarterly investor call on Wednesday that the ad-supported version of the Disney+ service has attracted more than 1,000 advertisers in the first quarter, a tenfold increase from launch. "Our revolutionary approach to technology ensures that our entire streaming portfolio will be the ultimate destination for brands in the years ahead," Iger said in a statement to Reuters. Half of consumers who sign up for Disney+ opt for the less-expensive version of the service, which includes advertising, said Joe Earley, president of Disney's direct-to-consumer business. He said the company has spent years refining ad technology that has been designed specifically for streaming. Its Hulu service launched as a free, advertising-supported service in 2008. "Disney+ didn't have to ramp up," Earley said. "It hit the ground running." (Reporting by Dawn Chmielewski in Los Angeles; Editing by David Gregorio and Jonathan Oatis) (Bloomberg) -- Elon Musks brain implant company, Neuralink Corp., switched the location of its business incorporation to Nevada from Delaware, taking steps to cut ties to a state where Musk has suffered significant legal setbacks one over pay and another over his acquisition of Twitter. Most Read from Bloomberg The change was completed Thursday, according to the office of the Nevada secretary of state and a notice sent to shareholders in the company. Last week, a Delaware judge struck down Musks $55 billion Tesla Inc. pay package. In a post on X, the social network he owns, Musk advised founders not to incorporate in the state. The notice sent to shareholders, which was reviewed by Bloomberg, informed them that their outstanding shares in the Delaware corporation would now be incorporated into outstanding shares in the Nevada corporation. Neuralink lawyer Philip Mao declined to comment. Last week, Musk tweeted that Neuralink had implanted a device in a human patient for the first time. The startups technology aims to help people with traumatic injuries operate computers using only their thoughts. Eventually, Musk has said Neuralinks device will give people control of your phone or computer, and through them almost any device, just by thinking. Neuralink isnt the first business Musk has reincorporated outside of Delaware and may not be the last. Musk previously moved the incorporation of X from Delaware to Nevada when he renamed the company from Twitter. Nevadas corporate laws offer more protections for executives against investor suits. Tesla, which is headquartered in Austin, was incorporated in Delaware in 2003. Last week, Musk vowed to try to shift Teslas incorporation from Delaware to Texas, but such a move would require a shareholder vote. Story continues Musk has a long history of legal disputes in Delaware, which is known as the countrys incorporation capital. The state is the corporate home to more than 70% of Fortune 500 companies and its chancery court judges are recognized as business-law experts who can hear cases on a fast-track basis. Most high-profile merger-and-acquisition disputes are litigated in the state in non-jury cases. Even foreign companies come to Delaware to have corporate disputes decided. Two years ago, a Delaware judge rebuffed an investor suit challenging Musks $2.6 billion acquisition of renewable-power provider SolarCity, finding the billionaire entrepreneur didnt improperly force fellow directors to accept an overpriced buyout of SolarCity. Later in 2022, Musk didnt have as much luck when he tried to back out of his bid to buy the social media platform once known as Twitter. He was repeatedly dealt setbacks in pretrial rulings by Judge Kathaleen St. Jude McCormick the same judge who would go on to zap his 2018 pay plan. Read More: Musk Slams Delaware, Hints at Tesla Texas Move After Pay Snub --With assistance from Dana Hull and Jef Feeley. (Updates with context starting in the first paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. OpenAI has achieved annualized revenues exceeding $2 billion, setting a record pace of growth reminiscent of the fastest-expanding tech firms in history, the Financial Times reported on Friday. This achievement for the San Francisco-headquartered startup was reportedly reached in December 2023, with a calculation based on multiplying the revenue of the previous month by 12. The report also mentioned that OpenAI, with support from Microsoft, is optimistic about its potential to more than double this revenue figure by 2025. This optimism is driven by the significant interest from corporate clients eager to integrate OpenAIs generative AI tools into their operations. OpenAI's rapid revenue increase places it among an elite group of Silicon Valley entities, such as Google and Meta, achieving the $1 billion revenue landmark within ten years of their inception. As previously reported by the Information, the company's annualized revenue had already reached $1.6 billion in December, spurred by the substantial growth of its flagship product, ChatGPT, up from $1.3 billion around mid-October. The startup, led by Sam Altman, one of the leading figures in the AI world, has been valued by investors at over $80 billion. Meanwhile, Altman is reportedly engaging with investors, including those from the UAE, to secure funding for a technological venture in a bid to increase global chip manufacturing capabilities and enhance AI's computational power, among other objectives, as per a recent report by the Wall Street Journal. By Vahid Karaahmetovic TORONTO, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, with strong support from the public and private sectors, is pleased to announce that it will lead a Canadian Women-only Business Mission to Taiwan and Vietnam in the fall of 2024. Supported by the Government of Canada through the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy Ecosystem Fund, this mission is part of the Foundations 2023-2025 business mission series, Northeast X Southeast: Advancing Partnerships Between Canada and Asia. The eighth mission in APF Canadas Womens Business Missions to Asia Series, this dual mission to two dynamic economies in Northeast and Southeast Asia will bring together Canadian women entrepreneurs with businesses in Taiwan and Vietnam to promote gender-inclusive trade, support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and catalyze international partnerships between Canadian companies and these key markets in Asia. The Canadian Women-only Business Mission to Taiwan and Vietnam will feature public conferences with high-level speakers from Canada, Taiwan, and Vietnam to discuss bilateral and regional trade issues, gender inclusion in the economy with the goal of womens economic advancement, and SME supports. The delegates will participate in personalized business-to-business (B2B) matchmaking, company pitches, and networking opportunities with conference attendees and potential stakeholders in the destination markets. Opportunities in Taiwan and Vietnam Taiwan is a cornerstone of the regions high-tech manufacturing ecosystem, and Vietnams dynamic economy represents a vibrant growth opportunity for Canadian businesses looking to engage with the regions burgeoning tech sector. By capitalizing on these complementary markets, Canadian companies can establish a strong foothold in the regions high-tech value chain and foster mutually beneficial partnerships in the Indo-Pacific. Taiwans C$1-trillion economy is an attractive destination for Canadian businesses due to its highly skilled workforce, integral role in global and regional high-tech value chains, and sophisticated manufacturing sector. In 2022, bilateral trade between Canada and Taiwan amounted to C$12 billion, while bilateral services trade reached C$1.9 billion. Taiwans primary exports to Canada included electronic and mechanical equipment and semiconductors; its main imports from Canada were petroleum products, automobile parts, and mineral ores. Two-way foreign direct investment between the markets reached C$602 million in 2022. The recently signed foreign investment promotion and protection arrangement between Ottawa and Taipei underscores the commitment to further enhance bilateral trade and investment relations. Vietnams strong domestic consumption base and thriving export-oriented manufacturing sector offer significant opportunities for Canadian companies. The C$571-billion economy, home to 95 million people, has become an integral part of crucial global supply chains due to its skilled workforce and strategic geopolitical position. In 2022, bilateral merchandise trade between Canada and Vietnam amounted to C$13.8 billion. Vietnams key exports to Canada in 2022 included electronics and apparel, while Canada primarily exported agricultural and agri-food products to Vietnam. As a member of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), Vietnam already has a free trade agreement with Canada. Applications will open on March 11, 2024. The Canadian Women-only Business Mission to Taiwan and Vietnam is generously supported by contributions from the Government of Canada through Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada. Key Links: Contacts: Information: A.W. Lee, Ph.D.,Director of Inclusive Global Trade,Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada[email protected] Media: Michael Roberts, Communications Director,Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada[email protected] Follow us on Twitter: @AsiaPacificFdnLike us on Facebook: Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada Source: Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada TORONTO, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Canadian International Air Show (CIAS) officially announces their 75th Anniversary performance headliners. The 2024 initial lineup includes the Canadian Forces (CF) Snowbirds and the CF-18 Demonstration team along with the much-anticipated return of the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, Red Arrows, and the United States Air Force F-22 Raptor. As a team, the Red Arrows are excited to return to Canada in 2024 to help celebrate the Centennial of the Royal Canadian Air Force, said Wing Commander Adam Collins, Officer Commanding, Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team the Red Arrows. The visit will highlight the long and enduring partnership between the United Kingdom and Canada and especially among our Armed Forces. In addition to the 75th Anniversary celebration, 2024s event will also mark the 100th Anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). For three-quarters of a century, the RCAF has been an integral part of our air show, said Lori Duthie, Executive Director of the CIAS. They continue to help us bring aviation history to life by highlighting the marvel of flight and honouring all Air Force veterans. With a legacy that soars back to 1946, CIAS is recognized as the longest-running air show in North America, and it annually welcomes over 1 million people to Torontos Waterfront each Labour Day weekend. CIAS stands as a dynamic tribute to the ingenuity of aviation engineering and the allure of the open skies. Amelia Earhart herself attributed her passion for flight to a moment in Toronto, where a CIAS predecessor planted the seeds of inspiration. CIAS has left an undeniable mark on the world of aviation history with 75 years of significant milestones: The first air show was held in 1948 at the Malton Airport where it was so popular that over 80,000 people stormed the airport, according to a Globe and Mail article at the time. The CIAS officially got its name in 1955 and in 1956 it became part of the CNE and extended to two days. Since it was built in 1964, the William Lyon Mackenzie fire boat has marked centre stage for the performers at the Air Show. In 1998, Canadian astronaut Dr. Dave Williams carried a CIAS patch onboard his Columbia space shuttle flight. CIAS celebrated its 60th Anniversary in 2009 which also marked the 100th anniversary of powered flight in Canada and the 80th anniversary of the Port George IV, now Billy Bishop Toronto Island Airport. In 2014, the Soviet produced Antonov An-2, the largest single-engine biplane ever built, lumbered across the waterfront for its premier CIAS appearance. The Guinness Book of World Records states the 45-year production run for the An-2 was the longest ever run for any aircraft. Due to COVID, the show was virtual in 2020 and returned in 2021 with a full line-up of performers. In 2023, 81-year-old Gord Price and his Yak-50 took to the skies for one last time at his final air show before he retired. 2024s event will continue to set a milestone in the industry with exciting performances from both the prestigious RAF Red Arrows, and the CF Snowbirds. Plans are already in motion for these two headline acts to engage in joint flybys and ground activities, promising an unforgettable experience for spectators. Tickets for the 75th Canadian International Air Show will go on sale in May 2024. Visit www.cias.org and follow CIAS on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for updates and further announcements. ABOUT THE CANADIAN INTERNATIONAL AIR SHOW: The Canadian International Air Show (CIAS) is Canadas largest and longest-running air show located right in the heart of downtown Toronto. It is a jam-packed air display showcasing modern military jets, vintage warbirds, thrilling aerobatics, and much more. The CIAS is celebrating its 75th Anniversary in 2024 along with the 100th Anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force. For more information, please visit cias.org. MEDIA CONTACT: Victoria MahoneyHarmony Marketing[email protected] A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/956c29e6-6b18-4c70-81d5-cfd015be265d Snowbirds at CIAS - Richard Dumigan. Snowbirds first appearance CIAS 1972. Photo by Richard Dumigan. Source: Canadian International Air Show Toronto, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TORONTO Friday, February 9th, 2024: With the launch of their latest cohort, food ecosystem disruptor Foodpreneur Lab is looking for Black entrepreneurs in southwestern Ontario who are interested in starting or scaling a packaged food business. Applications are now open at www.foodpreneurlab.com until March 1, 2024, at 11:59 am ET. Now in its fourth year, the Advisor-Led Start and Scale Support Path project provides free access to industry experts ranging from accountants and branding professionals to chefs and food scientists throughout its guided nine-month program. More than a traditional incubator accelerator, the paths focus on removing systemic barriers, increasing access, forging community and centring the lived experience of BIPOC individuals. It is through food that communities connect and foster a sense of belonging, says Foodpreneur Lab founder Janice Bartley. We believe that shared experiences provided by our support paths will help Black food entrepreneurs thrive and conduct business that honours their unique lens. Foodpreneur Lab alumni have gone on to achieve significant success thanks to opportunities provided by the non-profit. Recent alumni include Patrice McCreath, founder of Patreats, who won the New Product Award in 2023 at the Annual Canadian Grand Prix from the Retail Council of Canada (RCC) and Kenesha Lewis, founder of One More Cocoa, who was the only Canadian business to make the list of Oprahs 2023 Favourite Things. The network, the experience, and the results have all been amazing, says Start Support Path participant Robert Robinson of Robinson Sauces. Its helped me understand and map out success for my business, connecting me with the right people. Applicants from the following regions are eligible for support: the Greater Toronto Area, Ottawa, Hamilton, Halton, Niagara, Simcoe, Wellington, Frontenac, Dufferin, Prescott and Russell, Stormont, Renfrew, Lanark, Leeds & Grenville, Dundas & Glengarry. Information sessions for cohort four will be held in English on Monday, February 12th, at 6:30 pm ET and again on February 22nd, at 6:30 pm ET. The French session will be held on Thursday, February 15th, at 6:30 pm ET. Registration for both sessions is available at www.foodpreneurlab.com. The Government of Canada funds this project through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario. About Foopreneur Lab Established in 2019, Foodpreneur Lab is the only Canadian Black woman-founded and led nonprofit with a fierce national mandate to advance racial and gender equity in the food sector. Its mission is to level the playing field for underserved communities and forge Paths where Black foodpreneurs can leverage their cultural insight and lived experiences in food product innovation. We don't want to just break beyond the grocery stores ethnic food aisle; we want to celebrate new food products that connect with a communitys sense of belonging. Find out more at foodpreneurlab.com. Niki Papaioannou Foodpreneur Lab 4165689525 [email protected] Source: Foodpreneur Lab Columbus, OH, Feb. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In a first-of-its-kind collaboration, two of the top Small Business Administration (SBA) lenders in America, both headquartered in Columbus, will come together to stage the 2024 Great Lakes Lenders Conference: Lending Innovations on August 6-8 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. ECDI, the #1 SBA microloan intermediary lender, will host the event powered by Huntington National Bank, the leader, by volume, in SBAs 7(a) category. This is the first time the long-running annual event will be held in Columbus. In hosting the conference, ECDI is answering the need seen by the organizations leaders, as long-time lending practitioners, to expand the event beyond lending to be more inclusive of the support ecosystem required by under-resourced business owners to create sustainable enterprises, and to enable a broader sharing of ideas and best practices. The three-day summit will bring together top SBA experts, industry pros, business lenders, support providers, business owners, and civic funders from across the Midwest and the U.S. In addition to best practices in SBA lending, sessions will focus on the importance of fostering more equitable prosperity for small business owners of all communities and will seek to discover new and inventive ways to bolster small business investment. In fast-growing regions, such as Central Ohio, where corporations like Intel, Google, and Amazon continue to speed the rate of economic growth, it is critical to find more ways to help under-resourced small businesses take part in the growth and opportunity, said ECDIs Founder and CEO, Inna Kinney. This conference creates an amazing platform to start conversations about the need for collaborative, inclusive strategies throughout our industry, and we welcome to the table lenders, small business owners, civic partners, entrepreneur support organizations, and any person with an interest in the success of small businesses in our communities. We could not do this work without the partnership of Huntington, who is helping extend our mission beyond the walls of ECDI. For nearly 20 years, ECDI has been a trusted partner in creating a more equitable environment for small business lending. Were excited to come together to convene thought leaders, practitioners, and industry experts in our shared home city, said Brant Standridge, Huntingtons Consumer and Regional Banking President. We understand the tremendous impact small businesses have on communities and local economies. Together we hope to provide more small business owners with the tools and resources they need to start, grow and prosper. Guided networking and excursions are planned throughout the three-day conference to aid deeper cross-industry connections, including bus tours, where attendees will visit local businesses and hear the personal journeys of the owners. For more information about the Lending Innovations Conference, including programming, guest speakers, and more, visit www.lendinginnovators.com. ABOUT ECDIECDI is a nonprofit organization, dedicated to assuring underbanked entrepreneurs regardless of where they came from, where they live, their gender, or their race have access to funding and business incubation services they need to succeed. Based in Columbus, with offices in Cleveland, Cincinnati, Akron, Canton, Toledo, and Portsmouth, we serve small businesses in Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, and Indiana. As the nations top SBA microloan intermediary and a U.S. Treasury-designated CDFI, we have assisted more than 33,000 individuals, disbursed more than $177 million through more than 6,500 loans, with an average loan amount of $26,000, and created and retained more than 43,500 jobs since 2004. Learn more: www.ecdi.org. ABOUT HUNTINGTON NATIONAL BANK Huntington Bancshares Incorporated is a $189 billion asset regional bank holding company headquartered in Columbus, Ohio. Founded in 1866, The Huntington National Bank and its affiliates provide consumers, small and middle-market businesses, corporations, municipalities, and other organizations with a comprehensive suite of banking, payments, wealth management, and risk management products and services. Huntington operates approximately 1,000 branches in 11 states, with certain businesses operating in extended geographies. Visit Huntington.com for more information. Amee BellWanzo Economic and Community Development Institute (ECDI) 614-296-0128 [email protected] Source: Economic and Community Development Institute (ECDI) NexGami, inspired by Nintendo's ethos, ventures into Web3 gaming, aiming to revolutionize the industry with innovative blockchain integration and community-driven experiences. Vancouver, Canada, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NexGami, a pioneering force in the realm of Web3 gaming, announces its bold entry into the market, guided by the timeless principles of Nintendo's gaming philosophy. In a landscape marked by innovation and evolution, NexGami seeks to revolutionize the gaming experience by infusing it with the spirit of Nintendo's legendary legacy. During the gaming renaissance of the 1980s, Nintendo emerged as a trailblazer, reshaping the industry with its focus on the essence of gaming itself. Now, NexGami aims to carry forward this tradition by prioritizing the fundamental elements that make gaming truly enjoyable. As the company continues its journey to redefine the gaming experience, NexGami is preparing for the highly anticipated IDO in the last week of February which will mark a new chapter in its evolution. Led by Brice, a seasoned veteran of the gaming industry, NexGami is driven by a commitment to crafting immersive experiences that captivate players' hearts. Drawing inspiration from Nintendo's dedication to quality and innovation, Brice envisions NexGami as more than just a gaming platform but as a vibrant ecosystem where creativity thrives. At the core of NexGami's vision lies a deep understanding of the fundamental elements that make gaming truly enjoyable. By leveraging the power of Web3 technology, including blockchain and decentralized economics, NexGami aims to empower players and creators alike, fostering a vibrant ecosystem where creativity thrives. "Our mission is simple: to create games that are not only fun to play but also empower players to shape the gaming landscape," adds Brice. "Through innovative features such as governance tokens and revenue-sharing mechanisms, we aim to democratize the gaming industry, putting the power back in the hands of the players." With a focus on community building and player engagement, NexGami is committed to fostering a dynamic ecosystem where gamers can connect, collaborate, and thrive. By providing players with a platform to voice their opinions and contribute to the development process, NexGami aims to create a truly collaborative gaming experience. "NexGami is more than just a gaming platform; it's a community-driven ecosystem where players are at the heart of everything we do," explains Brice. "We believe that by embracing the spirit of Nintendo's timeless ethos, we can create a gaming experience that transcends traditional boundaries and captures the imagination of players worldwide." As NexGami embarks on this exciting new chapter in its journey, the company remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering unforgettable gaming experiences that inspire, entertain, and delight players of all ages. For more information about NexGami, please visit our website: https://www.nexgami.com . Join the NexGami community on Twitter at https://twitter.com/nexgami , and on telegram at https://t.me/NexGami . About NexGami NexGami is a pioneering force in the Web3 gaming industry, dedicated to creating immersive gaming experiences that captivate players' hearts and minds. With a focus on innovation, quality, and community, NexGami aims to redefine the gaming landscape by harnessing the power of blockchain technology and decentralized economics. Inspired by the timeless principles of Nintendo, NexGami is committed to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the world of gaming. Website | Twitter | Telegram | Discord Disclaimer: The information provided in this release is not investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is recommended that you practice due diligence (including consultation with a professional financial advisor) before investing or trading securities and cryptocurrency. Vancouver, Canada, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NexGami, a pioneering force in the realm of Web3 gaming, announces its bold entry into the market, guided by the timeless principles of Nintendo's gaming philosophy. In a landscape marked by innovation and evolution, NexGami seeks to revolutionize the gaming experience by infusing it with the spirit of Nintendo's legendary legacy. During the gaming renaissance of the 1980s, Nintendo emerged as a trailblazer, reshaping the industry with its focus on the essence of gaming itself. Now, NexGami aims to carry forward this tradition by prioritizing the fundamental elements that make gaming truly enjoyable. As the company continues its journey to redefine the gaming experience, NexGami is preparing for the highly anticipated IDO in the last week of February which will mark a new chapter in its evolution. Led by Brice, a seasoned veteran of the gaming industry, NexGami is driven by a commitment to crafting immersive experiences that captivate players' hearts. Drawing inspiration from Nintendo's dedication to quality and innovation, Brice envisions NexGami as more than just a gaming platform but as a vibrant ecosystem where creativity thrives. At the core of NexGami's vision lies a deep understanding of the fundamental elements that make gaming truly enjoyable. By leveraging the power of Web3 technology, including blockchain and decentralized economics, NexGami aims to empower players and creators alike, fostering a vibrant ecosystem where creativity thrives. "Our mission is simple: to create games that are not only fun to play but also empower players to shape the gaming landscape," adds Brice. "Through innovative features such as governance tokens and revenue-sharing mechanisms, we aim to democratize the gaming industry, putting the power back in the hands of the players." With a focus on community building and player engagement, NexGami is committed to fostering a dynamic ecosystem where gamers can connect, collaborate, and thrive. By providing players with a platform to voice their opinions and contribute to the development process, NexGami aims to create a truly collaborative gaming experience. "NexGami is more than just a gaming platform; it's a community-driven ecosystem where players are at the heart of everything we do," explains Brice. "We believe that by embracing the spirit of Nintendo's timeless ethos, we can create a gaming experience that transcends traditional boundaries and captures the imagination of players worldwide." As NexGami embarks on this exciting new chapter in its journey, the company remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering unforgettable gaming experiences that inspire, entertain, and delight players of all ages. For more information about NexGami, please visit our website: https://www.nexgami.com. Join the NexGami community on Twitter at https://twitter.com/nexgami, and on telegram at https://t.me/NexGami. About NexGami NexGami is a pioneering force in the Web3 gaming industry, dedicated to creating immersive gaming experiences that captivate players' hearts and minds. With a focus on innovation, quality, and community, NexGami aims to redefine the gaming landscape by harnessing the power of blockchain technology and decentralized economics. Inspired by the timeless principles of Nintendo, NexGami is committed to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the world of gaming. Website | Twitter | Telegram | Discord Disclaimer:The information provided in this release is not investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is recommended that you practice due diligence (including consultation with a professional financial advisor) before investing or trading securities and cryptocurrency. Belal Abdullah Anas NexGami baa(at)nexgami.com Source: NexGami VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MedBright AI Investments Inc. (CSE: MBAI) (OTCQB:MBAIF) (MedBright or the Company), is pleased to announce that it has closed the previously announced commercially reasonable efforts agency basis private placement offering of units (the Units) of the Company, for gross proceeds of $1,398,977.40 (the Offering). The Offering was conducted pursuant to an agency agreement dated as of February 9, 2024 (the Closing Date) among the Company, Canaccord Genuity Corp. (the Lead Agent), as lead agent and sole bookrunner, and a syndicate consisting of Beacon Securities Limited and PI Financial Corp. (collectively with the Lead Agent, the Agents). Pursuant to the Offering, a total of 6,994,887 Units were sold at a price per Unit of $0.20 (the Offering Price). Each Unit consists of one common share of the Company (a Share) and one-half of one Share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a Warrant). Each Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to acquire one Share (a Warrant Share) at an exercise price of $0.30, subject to adjustment in certain circumstances, for a period of 24 months from the Closing Date and will be governed by the terms of a warrant indenture (the Warrant Indenture) dated as of the Closing Date between the Company and Endeavor Trust Corporation, as warrant agent. The Offering has been conducted pursuant to the listed issuer financing exemption from prospectus requirements in Part 5A of National Instrument 45-106 Prospectus Exemptions ("NI 45-106"). The Offering has also been conducted in those other jurisdictions outside of Canada on a private placement basis in compliance with all applicable securities laws of such other jurisdictions, such that no prospectus, registration statement or similar document is required to be filed in such jurisdictions, no registration or similar requirement applies with respect to the Company in such other jurisdictions, and the Company has not become subject to ongoing continuous disclosure obligations in such other jurisdictions. The Units, the Warrants and the Warrant Shares are not subject to resale restrictions pursuant to applicable Canadian securities laws. In connection with the Offering, the Company (i) paid to the Agents a cash commission (the Agents Commission) equal to 8.0% of the aggregate gross proceeds raised from the Offering; (ii) issued to the Agents such number of compensation warrants (the Agents Warrants) as is equal to 8.0% of the aggregate number of Units sold in the Offering, each Agents Warrant being exercisable into one Share (an Agents Warrant Share) at the Offering Price for a period of 24 months from the Closing Date; and (iii) paid to the Lead Agent a corporate finance fee, payable in equal proportions in cash and through the issuance of units of the Company at the Offering Price (the CF Fee Units), each CF Fee Unit consisting of one Share (each, a CF Fee Unit Share) and one Share purchase warrant (a CF Fee Unit Warrant) governed by the terms of the Warrant Indenture, each exercisable into one Share (a CF Fee Unit Warrant Share) at a price of $0.30 for a period of 24 months from the Closing Date. The Agents Warrants, the Agents Warrant Shares, the CF Fee Units, the CF Fee Unit Shares, the CF Fee Unit Warrants and the CF Fee Unit Warrant Shares are subject to a statutory hold period of four months and one day pursuant to applicable accredited investor exemptions under NI 45-106. The net proceeds of the Offering will be used for business development, general working capital, other general corporate purposes, and sales and marketing activities as described in the offering document relating to the Offering that can be accessed under the Companys profile at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Companys website at medbright.ai. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor will there be any sale of the securities in any state in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. The securities being offered have not been, nor will they be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") and may not be offered or sold to, or for the account or benefit of, Persons in the United States or U.S. Persons (as such term is defined in the U.S. Securities Act) absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. About MedBright AI Investments Inc. MedBright AI is a capital allocator focused on investing in healthcare technology companies. Investments may include equity, debt, or other securities of both public and private companies and control stake acquisitions. MedBright has a focus on significant near-term and midterm high-quality opportunities with strong return potentials while maintaining commitment to governance. MedBright AI Investments Inc.Trevor Vieweg, Chief Executive OfficerEmail: [email protected]Phone: (604) 602-0001 Cautionary Note Regarding 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 the Company 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. The forward-looking statements and information in this press release include, among others, statements or information concerning the terms of the securities issued pursuant to the Offering, the compensation payable to certain parties in connection with the Offering, the use of proceeds of the Offering, the future performance of the Company's business, its operations and its financial performance and condition. Such statements and information reflect the current view of the Company. 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 the Companys actual results to differ materially from those indicated or implied by forward-looking statements and information. Such factors include, among others: the ability of the Company to comply with the terms of the securities issued pursuant to the Offering or use the proceeds of the Offering as announced or at all; currency fluctuations; limited business history of the Company; 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 Company undertakes no obligation to comment on analyses, expectations or statements made by third parties in respect of its securities or its financial or operating results (as applicable). The Company cautions that the foregoing list of material factors is not exhaustive. When relying on the Companys forward-looking statements and information to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. The Company 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 the Company as of the date of this press release and, accordingly, are subject to change after such date. The Company does not undertake to update this information at any particular time except as required in accordance with applicable laws. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. Source: MedBright AI Investments Inc. CALGARY, Alberta, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pan American Energy Corp. (CSE: PNRG | OTCQB: PAANF | FRA: SS60) ("Pan American or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has mobilized EarthEx Geophysical (EarthEx) to conduct a 2D seismic survey at its flagship project, the Horizon Lithium Project (Horizon or the Project) in Big Smoky Valley, Esmeralda County, Nevada. The seismic survey will be conducted with the support of the Companys previously announced contractor partner, RESPEC Consulting Inc. (RESPEC) in support the next stages of exploration and Phase 3 drill program at the Project, which is designed to expand the known mineral resources at the Project through step-out drilling to extend the deposit to the Northwest, South, East, and West and at greater depths. Jason Latkowcer, Chief Executive Officer, commented, "We are thrilled to return to work at the Project after the release of our inaugural Mineral Resource Estimate setting out one of the largest identified lithium deposits in the United States in November. The Project is 70+ square km and the Mineral Resources Estimate encompasses only 31.5% of that land package. We expect this survey to play an instrumental role in our Phase 3 planning by helping to optimize our drill targeting. EarthEx will conduct a Horizontal to Vertical Spectral Ratio (HVSR) survey using a Tromino passive seismic device at the Project. The survey is expected to comprise 86 line-km with a line spacing of 1,000 meters and station spacing of 250 meters. Local and regional faulting may have displaced and/or offset blocks of the targeted Siebert Formation in relation to each other, which would affect the thickness of overlaying alluvial gravels otherwise known as overburden. The HVSR survey is expected to help map overburden thickness and identify fault lines on the Project, allowing for the design of a more targeted and efficient Phase 3 drill program. Once the geophysical survey is captured and interpreted, RESPEC will support the Company with results analysis, mapping, and drill planning. RESPEC will also support permitting the high-priority drill targets with the Bureau of Land Management , Tonopah Field Office, with the goal of advancing a logistically sound and fully permitted Phase 3 drilling plan in 2024. Tromino Passive Seismic Surveying: There are ambient vibrations moving in the Earths crust at all times and these vibrations translate into all layers, including the unconsolidated overburden. The behaviour of these vibrations, at certain frequencies is a function of the thickness of the layer in which they are moving. The Tromino Passive seismic device makes use of the HVSR method (horizontal over vertical spectral ratio) to analyze these vibrations and estimate the depth to bedrock in a study area. The relationship between the depth of the bedrock and the frequencies at which peaks form in this ratio is dependent upon the velocities of the unconsolidated cover. In areas where cover material is fairly consistent and some good areas with known bedrock depth can be used for calibrating the frequency-depth relationship, this method is expected to produce depth estimates which are accurate within about 20%. The method is quick and efficient and does not suffer from penetration issues that may be present in ground penetrating radar surveys. Figure 1: Outline of the Project (black), proposed survey lines (yellow), and access roads (red polylines). The survey is estimated to comprise 86 line-km with a line spacing of 1,000 m and 250 m station spacing Qualified Person The technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Jared Suchan, PhD P.Geo, who is an independent consultant of the Company, and a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101. About Pan American Energy Corp. Pan American Energy Corp. (CSE: PNRG) (OTCQB: PAANF) (FSE: SS60) is an exploration stage company engaged principally in the acquisition, exploration and development of mineral properties containing battery metals in North America. The Company executed an option agreement in Canada with Magabra Resources, providing for the right to acquire up to a 90% interest in the drill-ready Big Mack Lithium Project, 80 km north of Kenora, Ontario. The Company has also entered a property option agreement with Horizon Lithium LLC providing for the right to acquire a 100% interest in the Horizon Lithium Project, located within Esmeralda County Tonopah Lithium Belt, Nevada, USA. To register for investor updates, please visit https://panam-energy.com. On Behalf of the Board of DirectorsJason LatkowcerCEO & Director ContactPhone : (587) 885-5970 Email: [email protected] Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words could, intend, expect, believe, will, projected, estimated and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Companys current beliefs or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. In particular, this press release contains forward-looking information relating to, among other things, the Companys plans at the Project, including the nature and type of the Companys activities, the timing of such activities and the aim and objectives of the Companys efforts; and the ability of the Company to expand the mineral resources at the Project through the planned phase three drill program. Various assumptions or factors are typically applied in drawing conclusions or making the forecasts or projections set out in forward-looking information, including, in respect of the forward-looking information included in this press release, assumptions regarding the Companys ability to execute on its plans at the Project, including that it will be successful in carrying out such activities on the anticipated timeline and that such activities will yield the desired outcomes, including the expansion of the mineral resources at the Project. Although forward-looking information is based on the reasonable assumptions of the Companys management, there can be no assurance that any 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 to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors include, among other things, the risk that the Companys activities at the Project does not proceed in the manner and on the timeline currently contemplated, or at all; risks inherent in the exploration and development of mineral deposits, including risks relating to receiving requisite permits and approvals, changes in project parameters or delays as plans continue to be redefined, that mineral exploration is inherently uncertain and that the results of mineral exploration may not be indicative of the actual geology or mineralization of a project; that mineral exploration may be unsuccessful or fail to achieve the results anticipated by the Company, including that the Company may fail to expand the known mineral resources at the Project through its planned phase three drill program; and that mineral exploration activities are often unsuccessful. The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof, and the Company 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. The Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) has not reviewed, approved, or disapproved the contents of this press release. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/14f97aa5-cec2-41ae-be59-8527d37d42a6 Figure 1: Outline of the Project (black), proposed survey lines (yellow), and access roads (red polylines). The survey is estimated to comprise 86 line-km with a line spacing of 1,000 m and 250 m station spacing Source: Pan American Energy Corp. Woodland Hills, California, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Porsche enthusiasts now have a new reason to celebrate as the brand new Porsche Woodland Hills Gen 5 Porsche dealership opens its doors. This high-tech, state-of-the-art dealership promises to offer an elevated customer experience for its guests.The new dealership aims to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment where Porsche enthusiasts can gather together, admire the latest models, and get up close and personal with some of the most legendary vehicles in automotive history. Housed in a brand new beautiful building with aluminum architecture, the dealership stands as a state-of-the-art structure and cutting-edge design. The interior of the dealership provides a technology-focused immersive Porsche experience with a hands-on approach. "We are excited to bring this new Porsche dealership to Woodland Hills. This Gen 5 dealership was built by Porsche enthusiasts for Porsche enthusiasts and will ignite passion for the brand and bring together Porsche enthusiasts from all over California." Says Scott Stanley, General Manager. The dealership boasts the largest inventory of the pioneering all-electric model, the Porsche Taycan, in the country, while also offering a diverse selection of high-performance models equipped with cutting-edge features. On the second floor, you'll find dedicated workspaces and a comfortable lounge area, ideal for hosting special events. The service department boasts more than 34 service bays, and there's even a designated area where visitors can observe the service operations through a spacious window. Each showroom "world" offers an immersive, multi-sensory experience using an audio/visual system for configuring personalized cars prior to purchase. "We're thrilled to welcome Porsche enthusiasts to our state-of-the-art dealership. The journey has been exciting, and we're proud of what we've achieved. Porsche Woodland Hills stands as the first major metro Gen 5 destination Porsche, a premier choice conveniently located right off the 101 in Woodland Hills." - Howard Tenenbaum, Dealer Principal. Members of the press are encouraged to schedule an exclusive tour of the dealership to experience the innovative features and exquisite design. As the dealership continues to grow and serve the community, visitors can look forward to multiple events, including exclusive test drives, meet and greets, and more. ###About Porsche Woodland Hills:Porsche Woodland Hills is part of Keyes Motors Inc., family-owned and operated in LA for over 75 years. Conveniently located in Woodland Hills, Porsche Woodland Hills specializes in providing the Los Angeles and greater LA area with high-quality service and sales of Porsche vehicles. Learn more at PorscheWoodlandHills.com Attachments Kendra Spangler Porsche Woodland Hills 508.280.7186 [email protected] Source: Porsche Woodland Hills FILE - Nebraska Sen. Loren Lippincott, of Central City, sits at his desk on the floor of the state Capitol, Jan. 5, 2024, in Lincoln, Neb. On Thursday, Feb. 8, Lippincott presented a bill to the Legislature's government committee that would give the Nebraska State Patrol $200,000 to hire an ethical hacker, who would spend his or her days trying to break into the states computer network, as well as election equipment and software, in an effort to find any vulnerabilities in those systems. (AP Photo/Margery Beck, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) One state lawmaker wants Nebraska to take measures to protect it from cyberattacks. His answer? Hire its own hacker. State Sen. Loren Lippincott presented a bill Thursday to the Legislature's government committee that would give the Nebraska State Patrol $200,000 to hire an ethical hacker. The hacker would spend his or her days trying to break into the states computer network, as well as election equipment and software, to find any vulnerabilities in those systems. Lippincott said he got the idea from a nephew of his who did similar work. The lawmaker's staff did not find other states that have hired independent hackers, although Missouri has hired a company that employs white hat hackers to provide that service. We hope to lead the way, Lippincott said. His bill also would allow hiring a security company that provide hackers to find weaknesses in the state's system. Security challenges continue to grow for state and local election officials across the country, including potential cyberattacks waged by foreign governments, criminal ransomware gangs and election misinformation that has led to harassment of election officials and undermined public confidence. Lippincott presented the bill on the heels of FBI Director Christopher Wray's warning that Chinese government hackers are targeting critical U.S. infrastructure, including water treatment plants, the electrical grid and transportation systems. The Nebraska bill's hearing was also held on the same day that the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency launched a program aimed at boosting election security in the states and after a recent cyberattack on government operations in Georgia that has created some elections challenges ahead of that states March presidential primary. This idea is that an ethical hacker can find vulnerabilities that can be fixed before they can be exploited by bad actors, Lippincott said. They can say, Heres the hole in the dike.' Lippincott's hacker-for-hire bill accompanies an $11 million cybersecurity bill also presented to the committee Thursday that would give the state's chief information officer, local governments and school districts more ability to bolster cybersecurity through the purchase of security software and hardware, training and preparedness drills. The bills drew a handful of supporters and no opponents at Thursday's hearing. The committee will decide in the coming days whether to advance the proposals. If advanced, they would have to survive three rounds of debate to be passed in Nebraska's unique one-chamber Legislature. HAWAII, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On Feb. 8, Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman, head of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the voice in President Bidens cabinet for Americas more than 33 million small businesses, traveled to Maui with FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and other federal and local officials for a six-month assessment of recovery efforts since the devastating August 2023 wildfires. In the morning, Administrator Guzman participated in a press conference with Hawaii Governor Josh Green, Maui Mayor Richard Bissen, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, HUD Principal Assistant Deputy Secretary Marion McFadden, EPA Deputy Regional Administrator Cheree Peterson to highlight the progress of Mauis recovery over the last six months. She also participated in a meeting with federal and local officials to receive status updates and chart a path forward for long-term recovery efforts. She also participated in meetings with non-profits and community leaders involved in Mauis long-term recovery to learn how the SBA can continue to support survivors and all those impacted by the wildfires in partnership with local stakeholders. In the afternoon, Administrator Guzman visited two Maui small businesses, Rio Event Design, and Whalers Fine Jewelry, to hear how they were impacted by the wildfires and how SBA programs help small businesses suffering from financial loss as the result of a disaster. Administrator Guzman then visited the Maui Chamber of Commerce for a Native Listening Session, where she connected with local Native Hawaiian business owners and leaders on Maui to discuss the wildfires unique impact on Native Hawaiian communities and the role of the SBA in aiding economic recovery. Later in the day, Administrator Guzman visited a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) with Administrator Criswell to underscore the Biden-Harris Administration's whole-of-government response to the Maui wildfires. At the DRC, the Administrators met with impacted survivors and dedicated staff to see how federal agencies are collaborating on the ground to provide relief for the community. For follow-up interview requests for Administrator Guzman, please contact Rebecca Galanti at [email protected]. Event Photos available upon request at: [email protected] Press Conference with Federal, State, and Local Partners Image Description: Administrator Guzman (C) speaks at a press conference alongside Hawaii Governor Josh Green (L), FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell (center right), and Maui Mayor Richard Bissen (second from right). Long-Term Recovery Meeting Image Description: Administrator Guzman (L) participates in a long-term recovery meeting with federal, state, and local partners. Kipaepae Ceremony Image Description: Administrator Guzman (second from left) participates in a Kipaepae Ceremony before attending a long-term recovery meeting. Native Listening Session Image Description: Administrator Guzman (R) participates in a listening session with United Way President and CEO Angela Williams (L) and Native Hawaiian entrepreneurs and business leaders. Meeting with a Hawaii Small Business Owner Image Description: Administrator Guzman (L) speaks with Rodrigo Botta (R), owner of Rio Event Design, a small business that received an EIDL loan after being forced to shut down for two months. Visiting a Disaster Recovery Center Image Description: Administrator Guzman (L) meets with SBA staff at a Disaster Recovery Center. ### About the U.S. Small Business Administration The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. Kirk McElwain U.S. Small Business Administration 202-205-6175 [email protected] Source: U.S. Small Business Administration MONTREAL, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Saputo Inc. (TSX: SAP) Saputo will release its fiscal 2024 third quarter financial results on Thursday, February 8, 2024. A press release will be issued after markets close, and a conference call is scheduled on Friday, February 9, 2024, at 8:30 a.m. (Eastern Time) to discuss the Companys results. The speakers will be Mr. Lino A. Saputo, Chair of the Board, President and CEO and Mr. Maxime Therrien, Chief Financial Officer and Secretary. To participate: Webcast: https://www.gowebcasting.com/13127Presentation slides will be included in the webcast and can also be accessed in the Investors section of Saputos website (www.saputo.com), under Calendar of Events. Conference line: 1-800-945-5981Please dial-in five minutes prior to the start time. Replay of the conference call and webcast presentationFor those unable to join, the webcast presentation will be archived on Saputos website (www.saputo.com) in the Investors section, under Calendar of Events. A replay of the conference call will also be available until Friday, February 16, 2024, 11:59 p.m. (ET) by dialling 1-800-558-5253 (ID number: 22028964). About SaputoSaputo, one of the top ten dairy processors in the world, produces, markets, and distributes a wide array of dairy products of the utmost quality, including cheese, fluid milk, extended shelf-life milk and cream products, cultured products, and dairy ingredients. Saputo is a leading cheese manufacturer and fluid milk and cream processor in Canada, a leading dairy processor in Australia and the top dairy processor in Argentina. In the USA, Saputo ranks among the top three cheese producers and is one of the top producers of extended shelf-life and cultured dairy products. In the United Kingdom, Saputo is the leading manufacturer of branded cheese and dairy spreads. In addition to its dairy portfolio, Saputo produces, markets, and distributes a range of dairy alternative cheeses and beverages. Saputo products are sold in several countries under market-leading brands, as well as private label brands. Saputo Inc. is a publicly traded company and its shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol SAP. Follow Saputos activities at Saputo.com or via Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Investor InquiriesNicholas EstrelaDirector, Investor Relations1-514-328-3117 Media Inquiries1-514-328-3141 / 1-866-648-5902[email protected] Source: Saputo Inc. HENDERSON, Nev., Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Solar Integrated Roofing Corp. (OTC: SIRC) (SIRC or the Company), an integrated, single-source solutions provider of solar power, roofing and EV charging systems announces the addition of two new Board Observers. In an effort to ensure stronger outside shareholder representation on the SIRC Board of Directors, Mr. Robert Yarhi and Mr. Philippe Gastone have agreed to serve as Board Observers. Mr. Yarhi spent several days visiting the SIRC family of companies and their employees to learn more about the companies and strategies for growth. Mr. Gastone has spent numerous hours discussing the business challenges with CEO, Brad Rinehart. These in-depth discussions and visits provide the perfect segue to serving as Board Observers. Philippe Gastone has broad experience in Corporate Strategy, Mergers & Acquisitions and Corporate Development. He has acquired strong cross-continent and cross-border experience in Europe, USA, South and Central America. He has led corporate development initiatives, acquisitions, and divestitures in multiple industries while working in large corporations, strategy consulting and Investment Banking. He advised and managed growth strategies and transactions for more than twenty years from strategic analysis through execution, negotiating and closing as well as on post-merger integration issues. Mr. Gastone is a Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Cereus Capital Partners, a private equity firm investing in food assets in Central and South America. In addition, he is a Director of ViZible, an emerging artificial intelligence company based in Denver, CO. Robert Yarhi is a shareholder and a Director in the family business SigmaQ Group, now headquartered in Panama. In 1983 he started his own business called Sigma Imports and is very successful in the Import/Export activities. SigmaQ acquired Badger Paper in Los Angeles in 1985, where Robert was appointed as President to manage the operations. Under Yarhis leadership, the company was able to turn the corner, grow and eventually relocate the company from California to Sparks, Nevada, building on his vision of a better business environment. Badger is now Sierra Converting Corporation. Robert bought the business out of the family group in 2004 and is now the sole owner and President. The company was renamed Sierra Packaging & Converting LLC and in 2013 the company was relocated into a State-of-the Art 190,000 square feet facility in Reno. Robert Yarhi is also a Co-Founder and Partner of Cereus Capital Partners, a private equity firm focusing on acquiring food assets in Central and South America. Mr. Yarhi and Mr. Gastone offer the kind of insight that will help elevate SIRC and add additional perspective as we continue to navigate challenges. They each bring years of experience that is immeasurable, and we are very lucky to have their unique perception, says Brad Rinehart, CEO. Both observers have agreed to share their time and expertise and will have regular meetings with SIRC leadership. SIRC continues to remain hyper vigilante in efforts to streamline operations, focus on profitable projects and keep costs low. About Solar Integrated Roofing Corp. Solar Integrated Roofing Corp. (OTC: SIRC) is an integrated, single-source solutions provider of solar power, roofing and EV charging systems, specializing in commercial and residential properties throughout North America. The Company serves communities by delivering the best experience through constant innovation & legacy-focused leadership. For more information, please visit the Company's Investor Relations website at www.solarintegratedroofing.com, Corporate website at https://www.sirc.com or join us on Twitter, LinkedIn or Facebook. Press Release Contact:Julie Brehm[email protected] Source: Solar Integrated Roofing Corp. CLEARWATER, Fla., Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- JP Energy Global, PTE, LTD, a wholly owned subsidiary of JP 3E Holdings, Inc., formerly Spooz, Inc. (OTC: SPZI), confirmed the shipping dates to fulfill five (5) contracts for Grade A Chicken Paws to China. The total value of the contracts is $182,000,000 of revenues. JP Energy Global commands approximately an 18% gross profit margin (more than $32,000,000 in its gross profits, before operating expenses), while avoiding currency risk all transactions are in US dollars. JP Energy Global does not act as a broker. Its business model is to buy and to sell these select commodities acting as a principal, thus facilitating higher profit margins. JP Energy Global sales team is currently in China coordinating the full operation with our valued customers. As previously announced, a Documentary Letter of Credit (DLC) and performance bond were granted to JP 3E Holdings, Inc., thus enabling unique contracts through KEB Hana Bank Singapore (KEB HBS). With its dedicated trade team, KEB HBS has the unique capacity to facilitate these transactions worldwide having the ability to facilitate transactions with China. The performance bond coupled with the documentary letter of credit ensures the payment to JP Energy Global, PTE, LTD. In this case, the product, Grade A Chicken Paws, was acquired by JP Energy Global, from Brazil, and then sold to China, as set forth above. The primary port used is the YANTIAN PORT (SHENZHEN) CHINA. JP Energy Global, PTE, LTD is registered with the Overseas Exporters of Imported Foods with the General Administration of China Customs. Our registration number is 70223000258 which is permitted for all food categories. This is what authorizes the company to legally ship goods into China. https://www.gacc.app/ The setting of the shipping dates for these five (5) major contracts starts the year with a positive note and gives our valued customers the comfort and the peace of mind expected from a smooth and professionally handled transaction stated John K. Park, Chairman of Spooz, Inc., being renamed JP 3E Holdings, Inc. Further details regarding these contracts will be released in the future. About Spooz, Inc. (SPZI) now JP 3E Holdings, Inc. Operating companies to supply the world with the vital needs of Eating, Energy, and Education (3E) which are essential needs for our everyday living and quality of life. The name change process from Spooz, Inc. (SPZI) now JP 3E Holdings, Inc. can be confusing and is time-consuming. The name has actually already been changed in Nevada and in Colorado. It is in the process of redomiciling from Colorado back to Nevada, principally for state income tax purposes, which is extremely important given the magnitude of its endeavors. However, OTC Markets and FINRA will not recognize the change until a certain arduous process is completed, through FINRA. Unfortunately, in recent years, FINRA has enhanced this process, which now takes several months to complete. Then, a new trading symbol will be assigned to the Company. SAFE HARBOR ACT: Forward-looking statements are included within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements regarding the Company's expected future financial position, results of operations, cash flows, financing plans, business strategy, products and services, competitive positions, growth opportunities, plans and objectives of management for future operations or listing on an exchange - including words such as "anticipate," "if," "believe," "plan," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "could," "should," "will" and other similar expressions - are forward-looking statements and involve risks, uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond the Company's control and may cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from anticipated results, performance or achievements. The Company is under no obligation to (and expressly disclaims any such obligation to) update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. No information in this press release should be construed in any manner whatsoever as an indication of the future performance of the Company's revenues, financial condition or stock price. Company Contact:John K. Park, Chairman and CEO[email protected]727-216-6765 OfficeWebsites: https://www.jp3e.com/https://www.jp3eholdings.com/Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/SpoozIncFacebook: http://www.Facebook.com/SpoozIncE-Mail: [email protected] Source: JP 3E Holdings, Inc. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Standard Uranium Ltd. (Standard Uranium or the Company) (TSX-V: STND) (OTCQB: STTDF) (Frankfurt: FWB:9SU) is pleased to announce the acquisition by staking of the Harrison uranium exploration project in the southwest Athabasca Basin region, northern Saskatchewan. Additionally, the Company has expanded the Ascent project by 3,728 hectares, effectively doubling the project size. With the addition of the Harrison project and expansion of the Ascent project (as described below), the Company now has ownership interests in eleven exploration properties, totalling over 209,867 acres across the uranium-rich Athabasca Basin (Figure 1). Key Highlights: Addition of the Harrison project - targeting high-grade 1 uranium mineralization in the southwest Athabasca uranium district Harrison covers several kilometres of untested conductors coincident with magnetic low trends and key structural geology attributes Ascent project doubled in size, covering 7,464 hectares of the eastern Athabasca Basin margin, providing highly prospective shallow drill targets Increased exposure to the southwest Athabasca uranium district, providing additional joint venture and land deal opportunities The Company considers uranium mineralization with concentrations greater than 1.0 wt% U 3 O 8 to be high-grade. As we continue our low-cost staking efforts across the Basin, we aim to grow and diversify our portfolio of projects enabling Standard Uranium to drive forward with dedicated exploration and collaboration with other companies. Picking up another piece of promising land in the southwest uranium district adds good value to our land package, in addition to doubling the size of Ascent, said Sean Hillacre, President & VP Exploration for the Company. We look forward to the transactional and exploration upside we can derive from these new claims in 2024. Figure 1. Overview map of Standard Uraniums eleven Athabasca properties, including the newly staked Harrison project. Harrison Project The Harrison project is comprised of two mineral claims totalling 1,750 ha, located 22 km SSE of the Shea Creek uranium deposits and approximately 30 km SE of the past producing Cluff Lake uranium mine (Figure 2). Electromagnetic (EM) surveys conducted in 2006-2007 outlined multiple EM zones across the project. Harrison covers approximately 6.8 km of a NW-SE conductor trends coincident with a prominent magnetic low. The trend is crosscut by several interpreted fault zones, including 4.9 km of the major Harrison fault. The project has never been drill tested, and provides the Company with additional exploration exposure in the southwest Athabasca uranium district. Figure 2. Plan map highlighting the Harrison fault zone and EM conductor trends on the Harrison project, with first vertical derivative magnetics in the background. The Company believes the newly acquired Harrison project is prospective for the discovery of high-grade unconformity-related uranium mineralization. Continued land acquisitions through staking efforts fits with the Companys strategy to increase its landholdings in the Athabasca Basin of Saskatchewan, Canada. Ascent Project Expansion Standard Uranium holds a 100%-interest in the Ascent project which straddles the eastern boundary of the Athabasca Basin (Figure 3). The recently expanded project consists of four mineral dispositions totalling 7,464 hectares. As the property lies on the edge of the Basin, depth to the sub-Athabasca unconformity is known to be approximately 50 metres from surface at maximum, while the eastern portion of the project contains no Athabasca sandstone cover, providing shallow drill target areas. In 2022, the Company completed a helicopter-borne Xcite time domain electromagnetic (TDEM), magnetic, and radiometric survey over the Ascent project. The airborne EM survey detected several conductive anomalies and radiometric variances on the Ascent Property, which correlate with previous electromagnetic surveys and lake sediment geochemical anomalies, effectively enhancing the resolution of the conductive trends on the Project. Additionally, the magnetic survey contributes to definition of potential fault systems and structural trends not previously identified. Regional prospecting by historical operators also identified uranium enrichment in basement rocks located east of the Athabasca Basin edge, which support the exploration model for shallow sandstone and basement hosted uranium on the property. The expansion of the project covers a suite of additional historical uranium anomalies, in addition to several more km of the Athabasca Basin edge and prospective regional structural trends. The current exploration model for the Ascent project is analogous to that of the J-Zone and Roughrider deposits, that are located proximal to a similar airborne EM target that has dimensions of roughly 2-km long by 1-km wide. The Ascent EM target is interpreted by the Company to represent a shallow-dipping conductive system and will be the focus of future exploration programs, drawing on the analogy of the J-Zone and Roughrider uranium deposits. Ascent Project Earn-In Option Agreement The Company has signed a term sheet (the Term Sheet), dated January 9, 2024, with Summit Fusion Pty. Ltd. (the Optionee or Summit), an arms-length private, Australian company. Pursuant to the Term Sheet, the Optionee will be granted the option (the Option) to earn a 75% interest in the Ascent Project. The Option is exercisable by the Optionee in three stages, summarized in Table 1. Table 1. Summary of Option Agreement Terms Stage Cash Shares Exploration Expenditures Operator Fee (10%) Equity Earned 1 Year 1 $100,000 $100,000 $1,000,000 $100,000 - Year 2 $100,000 $100,000 $2,000,000 $200,000 50% 2 Year 3 $100,000 $100,000 $3,000,000 $300,000 25% TOTAL $300,000 $300,000 $6,000,000 $600,000 75% The Company expects to proceed with signing the Definitive Option Agreement in February, 2024, with an inaugural drill program at Ascent slated for early June following the drill program at the Canary project. Figure 3. Plan map highlighting major structural zones and EM conductor trends on the expanded Ascent project, with first vertical derivative magnetics in the background. A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available by clicking on this link. Upcoming Events The Company will be presenting at the Red Cloud Financial Services Pre-PDAC 2024 Mining Showcase on February 29 and March 1, 2024 in Toronto, Ontario. The Company will also be attending the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada Convention from March 3rd 6th in Toronto, Ontario. Standard Uranium is attending the 2024 Energy Transition Metals Summit in Washington, DC from April 29-30. Shareholder Approval of 10% Rolling Omnibus Incentive Plan The Company is also pleased to announce the adoption of its new omnibus incentive plan (the "Omnibus Plan"), which was approved by the Company's shareholders at the annual and special meeting of shareholders held on November 10, 2022. The Omnibus Plan was created to comply with the requirements of the new TSX Venture Exchange Policy 4.4 Security Based Compensation, effective November 24, 2021 and provides flexibility for the Company to grant equity-based incentive awards (Awards) in the form of stock options (Options), deferred share units (DSUs) and restricted share units (RSUs). The Omnibus Plan replaced the Company's existing stock option plan and includes a 10% "rolling" option plan permitting a maximum of 10% of the issued and outstanding common shares of the Company as at the date of any security-based grant to be reserved for grant. Please refer to the Company's management information circular dated October 24, 2022, which is available under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ for a copy and summary of the Omnibus Plan. QP Statement The scientific and technical information contained in this news release, including the sampling, analytical and test data underlying the technical information contained in this news release, has been reviewed, verified, and approved by Sean Hillacre, P.Geo., President & VP Exploration of the Company and a qualified person as defined in NI 43-101. About Standard Uranium (TSX-V: STND) We find the fuel to power a clean energy future Standard Uranium is a uranium exploration company and emerging project generator poised for discovery in the worlds richest uranium district. The Company holds interest in over 209,867 acres (84,930 hectares) in the world-class Athabasca Basin in Saskatchewan, Canada. Since its establishment, Standard Uranium has focused on the identification, acquisition, and exploration of Athabasca-style uranium targets with a view to discovery and future development. Standard Uraniums Davidson River Project, in the southwest part of the Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan, comprises ten mineral claims over 30,737 hectares. Davidson River is highly prospective for basement-hosted uranium deposits due to its location along trend from recent high-grade uranium discoveries. However, owing to the large project size with multiple targets, it remains broadly under-tested by drilling. Recent intersections of wide, structurally deformed and strongly altered shear zones provide significant confidence in the exploration model and future success is expected. Standard Uraniums eight eastern Athabasca projects comprise thirty mineral claims over 32,838 hectares. The eastern basin projects are highly prospective for unconformity related and/or basement hosted uranium deposits based on historical uranium occurrences, recently identified geophysical anomalies, and location along trend from several high-grade uranium discoveries. Standard Uranium's Sun Dog project, in the northwest part of the Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan, is comprised of nine mineral claims over 19,603 hectares. The Sun Dog project is highly prospective for basement and unconformity hosted uranium deposits yet remains largely untested by sufficient drilling despite its location proximal to uranium discoveries in the area. For further information contact: Jon Bey, Chief Executive Officer, and Chairman Suite 918, 1030 West Georgia Street Vancouver, British Columbia, V6E 2Y3 Tel: 1 (306) 850-6699 E-mail: [email protected] Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements or forward-looking information (collectively, forward-looking statements) within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as of the date of this news release. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding: execution of the definitive agreement; conditions to the exercise the Option; completion of the Optionees go public transaction; the timing and content of upcoming work programs; geological interpretations; timing of the Companys exploration programs; and estimates of market conditions. Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements contained herein. 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. Certain important factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements are highlighted in the Risks and Uncertainties in the Companys management discussion and analysis for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2023. Forward-looking statements are based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company at this time, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies that may cause the Companys actual financial results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied herein. Some of the material factors or assumptions used to develop forward-looking statements include, without limitation: that the transaction with the Optionee will proceed as planned; the future price of uranium; anticipated costs and the Companys ability to raise additional capital if and when necessary; volatility in the market price of the Companys securities; future sales of the Companys securities; the Companys ability to carry on exploration and development activities; the success of exploration, development and operations activities; the timing and results of drilling programs; the discovery of mineral resources on the Companys mineral properties; the costs of operating and exploration expenditures; the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining; employee relations; relationships with and claims by local communities and indigenous populations; availability of increasing costs associated with mining inputs and labour; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development (including the risks of obtaining necessary licenses, permits and approvals from government authorities); uncertainties related to title to mineral properties; assessments by taxation authorities; fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Any forward-looking statements and the assumptions made with respect thereto are made as of the date of this news release and, accordingly, are subject to change after such date. The Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Neither the TSX-V nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/dad340a4-e3c3-48a1-9251-b1fcd50256b3 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2b17575a-f0b7-4e0e-a53b-22a7ec7b873d https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/915c456d-d4b1-43c6-a68b-790bb80b59de Weve known this was coming, for a very long time. For well over a decade, various experts have been warning governments and industry about global over-reliance on China for the supply of rare earth elements (REE). Now, this day of reckoning has arrived. Beginning in the spring of 2023, China first threatened to impose restrictions on the export of some rare earths. Just recently, China passed a law that could reduce its exports of critical Read More>> NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to APAAF are available in the companys newsroom at https://ibn.fm/APAAF About MiningNewsWire MiningNewsWire (MNW) is a specialized communications platform with a focus on developments and opportunities in the Global Mining and Resources sectors. It is one of 60+ brands within the Dynamic Brand Portfolio @ IBN that delivers: (1) access to a vast network of wire solutions via InvestorWire to efficiently and effectively reach a myriad of target markets, demographics and diverse industries; (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ outlets; (3) enhanced press release enhancement to ensure maximum impact; (4) social media distribution via IBN to millions of social media followers; and (5) a full array of tailored corporate communications solutions. 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To receive SMS alerts from MiningNewsWire, text BigHole to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only) For more information, please visit https://www.MiningNewsWire.com Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the MiningNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by MNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.MiningNewsWire.com/Disclaimer MiningNewsWire Los Angeles, CA www.MiningNewsWire.com 310.299.1717 Office [email protected] MiningNewsWire is powered by IBN Tryp Therapeutics (CSE: TRYP) (OTCQB: TRYPF), a pioneering clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing intravenous-infused psilocin (the active metabolite of psilocybin) for diseases with high unmet medical needs, has obtained an interim order of the Supreme Court of British Columbia in connection with the proposed arrangement between Tryp and Exopharm Limited ACN 163 765 991. The order is to be implemented under a statutory plan of arrangement and provides for the company to schedule and hold an annual general and special meeting of Tryp security holders. According to the announcement, during the meeting, securityholders will consider and vote on a special resolution approving the arrangement between Tryp and Exopharm. Tryp has scheduled the meeting to be held at 10 a.m. ET on March 8, 2024, in Toronto, Ontario. Eligible securityholders will receive a notice of the meeting along with a management information circular, a letter of transmittal and other related material meetings. Tryp noted that it has filed an application for the final order of the court to approve the arrangement; approval is expected on or about March 11, 2024, pending approval from Tryp security holders and other required regulatory approvals, as well as all other conditions being met. To view the full release, visit https://ibn.fm/ItuQc About Tryp Therapeutics Inc. Tryp Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing proprietary, novel formulations for the administration of psilocin in combination with psychotherapy to treat diseases with unmet medical needs. Tryps lead program, TRP-8803, is a proprietary formulation of IV-infused psilocin (the active metabolite of psilocybin) that alleviates numerous shortcomings of oral psilocybin including significantly reducing the time to onset of the psychedelic state, controlling the depth and duration of the psychedelic experience, and reducing the overall duration of the intervention to a commercially feasible timeframe. The company has completed a phase 2a clinical trial for the treatment of binge-eating disorder at the University of Florida, which demonstrated an average reduction in binge-eating episodes of greater than 80%. The company has also recently announced commencement of patient dosing in a phase 2a clinical trial for the treatment of fibromyalgia in collaboration with the University of Michigan and is preparing to initiate a phase 2a clinical trial in collaboration with Massachusetts General Hospital for the treatment of abdominal pain and visceral tenderness in patients suffering from irritable bowel syndrome. Each of the studies is utilizing TRP-8802 (synthetic oral psilocybin) to demonstrate clinical benefit in these indications. Where a positive clinical benefit has been demonstrated, subsequent studies are expected to utilize TRP-8803 (IV-infused psilocin), which has the potential to further improve efficacy, safety and patient experience. For more information about the company, please visit www.TrypTherapeutics.com. NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to TRYPF are available in the companys newsroom at https://ibn.fm/TRYPF About InvestorWire InvestorWire (IW) is a specialized communications platform with a focus on advanced wire-grade press release syndication for private and public companies and the investment community. It is one of 60+ brands within the Dynamic Brand Portfolio @ IBN that delivers: (1) access to a vast network of wire solutions via InvestorWire to efficiently and effectively reach a myriad of target markets, demographics and diverse industries; (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ outlets; (3) enhanced press release enhancement to ensure maximum impact; (4) social media distribution via IBN to millions of social media followers; and (5) a full array of tailored corporate communications solutions. With broad reach and a seasoned team of contributing journalists and writers, IW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that want to reach a wide audience of investors, influencers, consumers, journalists and the general public. By cutting through the overload of information in todays market, IW brings its clients unparalleled recognition and brand awareness. IW is where breaking news, insightful content and actionable information converge. For more information, please visit https://www.InvestorWire.com Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the InvestorWire website applicable to all content provided by IW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.InvestorWire.com/Disclaimer InvestorWire Los Angeles, CA www.InvestorWire.com 310.299.1717 Office [email protected] InvestorWire is powered by IBN Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2024) - AgriCann Solutions Corp. ("AgriCann") (with its subsidiaries, collectively referred to as "the Company") announces the resignation of Dome Duong as AgriCann's Chief Financial Officer and as a director of the Company, effective immediately. Mr. Duong wishes to focus his time and energy on his expanding financial services practice. "Dome has been a valued member of our executive team since August 2021," said Rob van Santen, AgriCann's Executive Chairman. "We extend our thanks to Dome for his support and dedication during difficult market conditions as the management team spearheaded start up efforts that included the acquisition of both Craft Nurseries Canada and Newline Ventures. We wish him the very best in his future endeavours." AgriCann is conducting a search process to identify a new CFO. About AgriCann Solutions Corp. AgriCann operates wholly owned subsidiaries Craft Nurseries Canada Ltd., a full-service Health Canada licenced cannabis nursery located in Lake Country, and Newline Ventures Inc., a Health Canada multi-licenced facility in nearby Vernon, British Columbia. AgriCann supports craft cultivators through innovative marketing initiatives, creating demand with premium genetics and strong consumer branding, and facilitates the distribution of consumer-packaged goods through scalable logistics models. By providing cultivating partners with access to superior genetics, starting materials, and cultivation support, we ensure quality control of finished flower as a trusted partner enabling effective and strategic competition in today's market. AgriCann provides a logistics solution by helping micro-batch craft cultivators build a viable business, getting their products to market efficiently and thereby securing a reliable supply of premium craft cannabis products to domestic and global markets. AgriCann Solutions' website: https://agricannsolutions.com/ Craft Nurseries' website: https://www.craftnurseries.com/ ON BEHALF OF AGRICANN SOLUTIONS CORP. (signed) "Rob van Santen" Executive Chairman For further information, please contact: Bobby Athwal Chief Operating Officer Telephone: +1.905.621.2104 Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Some of the statements contained in this press release are forward-looking statements and information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of words such as "expects", "believe", "intends", "is expected", "is likely", "potential", "suggests" or variations of such words or phrases, or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements and information are not historical facts and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties beyond the Company's control. Actual results and developments are likely to differ, and may differ materially, from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements contained in this news release. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements, except as may be required by applicable law. AgriCann Solutions Corp. 400-1771 Robson Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6G1C9 Tel. +1.604.608.1999 ~ Fax. +1.778.379.9990 To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/197500 Appia's Advisory Committee Also Includes Renowned Rare Earths Experts Jack Lifton and Don Hains Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2024) - Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. (CSE: API) (OTCQX: APAAF) (FSE: A0I0) (MUN: A0I0) (BER: A0I0) (the "Company" or "Appia") is pleased to announce the appointment of Constantine Karayannopoulos (Kloni Inc.) to its Advisory Committee, bringing with him 30 plus years of extensive expertise in Rare Earth Elements (REE) and critical minerals. His profound understanding of REE and critical minerals was honed during his illustrious tenure as the President and CEO of Neo Performance Materials Inc. (TSE: NEO) where he retired in 2023 (See Press Release). The Appia service agreement is set to commence on February 1, 2024, marking a pivotal moment for Appia as it strengthens its strategic advisory team with the inclusion of an industry luminary. Appia proudly welcomes Constantine Karayannopoulos to its Advisory Committee, alongside globally renowned rare earths experts Jack Lifton and Don Hains P.Geo (See Full Bios - Click Here) Constantine Karayannopoulos, BASc, MASc, P.Eng., is a highly accomplished Professional Engineer who recently served as the President and CEO of Neo Performance Materials Inc. until July 2023 (NEO). NEO, a distinguished REE and critical minerals Canadian public company, benefited from Constantine's 30 years of expertise including his leadership as COO (2000 - 2005), CEO (2005 to 2012), Chairman of the Board (2016 to 2020) and most recently again as CEO from July 2020 to July 2023. Constantine Karayannopoulos To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5416/197334_fefd22f93450e8d4_001full.jpg With an impressive career spanning over three decades, Constantine has emerged as one of the most enduring executives in the rare earth industry. His expertise extends to collaborating with various governments across Europe, North America, and Asia, aligning public policy and industrial economics for strategic growth. Constantine's journey in the Rare Earth sector began in 1994, working under the guidance of Peter V. Gundy, the founder of Advanced Material Resources Limited ("AMR") in Toronto. AMR marked a historic milestone as the first foreign company granted access to China's Rare Earth industry, establishing two majority-owned operating joint ventures. Constantine's roles at AMR evolved from Business Development Manager to North American Sales Manager, Global Sales Manager/Chairman of the JVs, VP/General Manager of AMR's Rare Earth Business Unit, COO overseeing AMR's both Rare Earths and Magnetic Material divisions and eventually to CEO following the acquisition of Magnequench Inc. in 2005 and the renaming of the combined company to Neo Material Technologies. Neo was sold to Molycorp in 2012 for $1.3 billion. Constantine is also the co-founder and was the non-executive Chairman of the Board of Neo Lithium Corp., a position he held from 2016 until January 2022 when the company was sold for $960 million. In addition to his corporate responsibilities, Constantine is a member of the Advisory Board at the University of Toronto's Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry. He is also a Director of the Canada China Business Council and serves on the Advisory Board of Lithium Royalties Corp., a fund specializing in battery materials royalties and streams. Constantine, leveraging his profound expertise in the sector, will provide invaluable services related to consultation on critical minerals through his consulting company, Kloni Inc., further enhancing Appia's strategic positioning. The Company has granted 300,000 options exercisable at $0.275 per share for five years to Kloni Inc. About Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. (Appia) Appia is a publicly traded Canadian company in the rare earth element and uranium sectors. The Company is currently focusing on delineating high-grade critical rare earth elements and gallium on the Alces Lake property, as well as exploring for high-grade uranium in the prolific Athabasca Basin on its Otherside, Loranger, North Wollaston, and Eastside properties. The Company holds the surface rights to exploration for 113,837.15 hectares (281,297.72 acres) in Saskatchewan. The Company also has a 100% interest in 13,008 hectares (32,143 acres), with rare earth elements and uranium deposits over five mineralized zones in the Elliot Lake Camp, Ontario. Lastly, the Company holds the right to acquire up to a 70% interest in the PCH Project (See June 9th, 2023 Press Release - Click HERE) which is 40,963.18 ha. in size and located within the Gois State of Brazil. (See January 11th, 2024 Press Release - Click HERE) Appia has 136.3 million common shares outstanding, 144.4 million shares fully diluted. Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements: This News Release contains forward-looking statements which are typically preceded by, followed by or including the words "believes", "expects", "anticipates", "estimates", "intends", "plans" or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance as they involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. We do not intend and do not assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements and shareholders are cautioned not to put undue reliance on such statements. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. For more information, visit www.appiareu.com. As part of our ongoing effort to keep investors, interested parties and stakeholders updated, we have several communication portals. If you have any questions online (X,/Facebook,/LinkedIn)/please feel free to send direct messages. To book a one-on-one 30-minute Zoom video call, please/click here. Contact: Tom Drivas, CEO and Director (c) (416) 876-3957 (e) [email protected] Stephen Burega, President (c) (647) 515-3734 (e) [email protected] To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/197334 Grants Options and RSU's Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2024) - AVANTI GOLD CORP. (CSE: AGC) (FSE: X370) (the "Company") is pleased to announce that, effective February 15, 2024, Martino De Ciccio has been appointed as a senior advisor to the Company. Martino De Ciccio commented: "I am pleased to join the advisory Board of Avanti Gold, alongside mining veterans such as Sir Samuel Jonah, Robert Cross, and Paul Matysek, given our shared belief that the Democratic Republic of the Congo hosts significant potential for the discovery of world-class mineral properties." About Martino De Ciccio Martino De Ciccio has over 15 years of experience in mining industry with a strong value creation track record and significant knowledge across strategy, capital markets, corporate finance, and ESG, coupled with a profound understanding of the African mining landscape. Martino De Ciccio currently serves as Deputy CFO and Head of Investor Relations at Endeavour Mining (TSX: EDV), a position he assumed in January 2023, from which he will be stepping down from in mid-February to pursue other opportunities. He joined Endeavour Mining in 2015 as Vice President, Strategy and Investor relations and played a pivotal role in Endeavour's transformation from a $250 million market cap to a FTSE100 company and one of the largest gold producers in the world, garnering over 25 investor relations achievement nominations, including repeatedly winning best across all sectors. Prior to joining Endeavour, Martino played a key role in growing La Mancha Resources from a $20 million market cap which culminated into a $500 million take-private offer. As Strategy and Business Development Manager, he then helped lead the private company's transformation from an emerging gold producer into one of the largest gold investment funds with cornerstone holdings in Evolution Mining and Endeavour, which was recognized with an Emerging Leader Award. Martino currently serves on the Board of Northisle Copper and Gold (TSXV: NCX) and Bluestone Resources (TSXV: BSR). Martino earned a B.Com in Finance from McGill University and is a CFA charterholder. Avanti Gold Corp. further announces that it has granted a total of 1,735,000 stock options ("Options") to purchase common shares of the Company to certain consultants pursuant to the Company's Stock Option Plan. Such Options are exercisable into common shares of the Company at an exercise price of $0.22 per common share for a period of five years from the date of grant. The Options vest 1/4 immediately and 1/4 bi-annually thereafter. All of the Options expire on February 8, 2029. In addition, the Company has issued a total of 2,600,000 restricted share units ("RSUs") to certain consultants of the Company in accordance with the Company's Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan. Once vested, each RSU represents the right to receive one common share of the Company or the equivalent cash value thereof at the Company's discretion. About Avanti Gold Corp. Avanti Gold Corporation is a mineral exploration company working on a Tier-1 gold opportunity in the Democratic Republic of the Congo ("DRC"), located in the Fizi territory of South Kivu province in the DRC. The Misisi Gold Project (or the "Project") has a contained Inferred Mineral Resource of 3 million ounces of gold as reported in the Company's National Instrument 43-101 technical report on the Misisi Gold Project (the "Technical Report"). The Project is located 250 kilometres south of Bukavu, the provincial capital of the South Kivu Province, in the DRC. The Project is comprised of three contiguous 30-year mining leases, valid until 2045, covering 133 square kilometres of prospective exploration ground along the 55-kilometre-long Kibara Gold Belt. The Kibara Belt is a well-known metallogenic province and hosts several other deposits, including the Twangiza (5.1 Moz oz Au, source: S&P Global) and Namoya (1.9 Moz, source: S&P Global) gold mines. The Project is host to the Akyanga deposit, which is the subject to an Inferred Resource of 40.8 million tonnes at an average grade of 2.37 grams per tonne of gold containing 3.11 million ounces. Qualified Person Ephraim Masibhera, a "Qualified Person" as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"), has reviewed the scientific and technical information that forms the basis for this news release and has approved the disclosure herein. Historical information contained in this news release cannot be relied upon as the Company's Qualified Person, as defined under NI 43-101 has not prepared nor verified the historical information. This news release also includes references with respect to the Twangiza (5.1 Moz oz Au, source: S&P Global) and Namoya (1.9 Moz, source: S&P Global) gold mines, which are located near the Misisi Gold Project. The Company advises that, notwithstanding their proximity of location, discoveries of minerals on such properties, any promising results thereof are not necessarily indicative of the mineralization of, or located on the Misisi Gold Project, or the Company's ability to commercially exploit the minerals claims which comprise the property or to locate any commercially exploitable deposits therefrom. On behalf of the Board of Directors Colin Porter Chief Executive Officer Email: [email protected] Office: +1 (604) 908-1679 Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/197410 Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2024) - Coho Collective Kitchens Inc. (TSXV: COHO) ("Coho" or the "Company"), a leader in the food & beverage space, is excited to announce the appointment of two distinguished leaders, Dan Haroun and Marija Radulovic-Nastic, to its Board of Directors ("Board") effective February 8, 2024. Their extensive expertise in technology, finance, and the food industry will undoubtedly bring a unique perspective to the organization as it continues to evolve and expand. Mr. Haroun has held leadership roles at Restaurant Brands International, Walmart Canada, and Freshii, including serving as CEO and CFO before the sale of Freshii in 2023. Mr. Haroun's broad experience across finance, strategy, real estate and supply chain, particularly in supporting the growth of global brands makes him an invaluable addition to the board as we look to scale Purebread across Canada. Mr. Haroun, a CPA and CA, will also be joining our audit committee, adding value with his expertise and financial acumen. Ms. Radulovic-Nastic, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Electronic Arts, brings a wealth of experience in technology and innovation to Coho. As a seasoned leader in the technology industry, Ms. Radulovic-Nastic has successfully managed global teams, navigated complex organizational challenges, driven advancements and fostered a culture of innovation. Her strategic mindset and passion for leveraging technology to create positive change align seamlessly with Coho's mission. "We are delighted to welcome Mr. Haroun and Ms. Radulovic-Nastic to our Board," said Andrew Barnes, CEO at Coho. "Their unique blend of financial strength, technological innovation and entrepreneurial spirit will play a crucial role in steering our organization towards new heights. We look forward to their insights and contributions as we continue to empower food entrepreneurs and drive positive change in the culinary world." The announcement of these appointments follows Yuri Fulmer's decision to step down from the Board. Coho extends its deepest appreciation to Mr. Fulmer for his dedicated service, guidance and valuable contributions during his tenure. Coho remains committed to advancing culinary innovation and collaboration within local communities. With the addition of Mr. Haroun and Ms. Radulovic-Nastic to its Board, the organization is poised for a transformative journey towards a future where technology and sustainable practices converge. Grant of RSUs and Options In connection with the appointments, Coho's Board has authorized the grant of 93,750 restricted share units ("RSUs") each to Ms. Radulovic-Nastic and Mr. Haroun, effective February 8, 2024. The RSUs will vest in equal amounts over three years, commencing on the first anniversary of the grant date. Once vested, each RSU represents the right to receive one common share of the Company or the equivalent of cash value or a combination thereof, at the discretion of the Board. In addition, Coho's Board has also authorized the grant of 93,750 stock options (the "Options") each to Ms. Radulovic-Nastic and Mr. Haroun, effective February 8, 2024. Each option is exercisable for one common share of the Company, at an exercise price of, the greater of $0.17 or the Fair Market Value on the date of grant, for a period of 5 years. The Options will vest in equal amounts over four years, commencing on the first anniversary of the grant date. The 187,500 RSUs and 187,500 Options will be granted pursuant and subject to the terms of Coho's Amended and Restated Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan, the applicable grant agreement, and the requirements of the TSX Venture Exchange. About Purebread and Coho Collective Kitchens Inc. Coho is a growing player in commercial real estate and food technology, operating fast casual restaurants and shared-kitchen facilities. As Canada's largest shared-kitchen company, Coho is expanding its presence and services. Through their combined efforts, Coho and Purebread strive to positively impact the communities in which they operate. For more information, please visit cohocollectivekitchens.com or contact: Andrew Barnes, Chief Executive Officer Coho Collective Kitchens [email protected] (778) 877-6513 Forward-Looking Information This press release may contain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation, which reflect management's current expectations regarding future events. Forward-looking information is based on a number of assumptions and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's control, which could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those that are disclosed in or implied by such forward-looking information. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the ability of the Company to execute on its strategy, the growth and performance of the ghost kitchen industry globally and in Canada; risks inherent in the ghost-kitchen, retail bakery, or coffeehouse sectors in general; that future results may vary from historical results; and competition in the markets where Coho operates. Except as required by securities law, Coho does not assume any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, events or otherwise. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/197335 Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2024) - Happy Belly Food Group Inc. (CSE: HBFG) (OTCQB: VGANF) ("Happy Belly" or the "Company"), a leading consolidator of emerging food brands is pleased to announce it has secured another real estate location for Heal Wellness, a fresh smoothie bowl, acai bowls, smoothies and delicious breakfast waffles quick serve restaurant. "On October 24th, we announced the signing of a five-unit development agreement with a multi-unit franchisee for our Heal Wellness brand in British Columbia, and today we are pleased to announce that the second real estate location of that agreement has been signed. The first Heal Wellness location in British Columbia was in the city of Chilliwack, our second location will be in West Abbotsford, more precisely in Fraser Valley's premier shopping, dining, and theatre destination of HighStreet Shopping Centre," said Sean Black, Chief Investment Officer of Happy Belly. Heal 1 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6625/197372_8cde790584331b3e_001full.jpg "This signing strengthens our growing foothold of Heal in British Columbia as we leverage our previous franchising experience to accelerate the growth of our brands. As our stable of emerging QSR brands continues to grow, so does our ability to secure prime real estate locations across Canada. The city of West Abbotsford continues to grow at an impressive rate and will expand Heal's customer reach in a heavily populated and demographical aligned area to the brand, giving us tremendous opportunity in-store, as well as delivery." "With possession taking place in Q2 2024, we are just getting started to increase our footprint in Western Canada as this is our fourth (4th) secured real estate location for Heal in Western Canada in the last few months (out of fifty (50) committed through our area development agreements in AB and BC). We anticipate a significant number of openings in 2024 across Canada." "We look forward to continuing to execute on our franchising model as we accelerate our growth organically and inorganically through accretive M&A. The rapid expansion of the Heal Wellness brand is a prime example of our ability to execute an asset light franchise model. As free cash flow increases from the brand, we anticipate accelerating our corporate store development schedule with supplemental growth coming from our franchise program. We are just getting started." For franchising inquiries please see www.happybellyfg.com/franchise-with-us/ or contact us at [email protected]. About Heal Wellness Heal Wellness was created out of a passion and mission to serve quick, fresh wellness foods that power and support a busy, active lifestyle. Currently, we are pleased to offer a wide variety of smoothie bowls, smoothies, and delicious breakfast waffles. We are proud to highlight that every superfood ingredient in the Heal Wellness menu is carefully selected with the intention of fueling the body with a reduced ecological. About Happy Belly Food Group Happy Belly Food Group Inc. (CSE: HBFG) (OTCQB: VGANF) ("Happy Belly" or the "Company") is a leading consolidator of emerging food brands. Happy Belly Food Group Shawn Moniz Founder, Chief Executive Officer FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT: www: www.happybellyfg.com or email [email protected] If you wish to contact us please call: (604) 737-2303 Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release, which has been prepared by management. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements All statements in this press release, other than statements of historical fact, are "forward-looking information" with respect to the Company within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-Looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur, and include the future performance of Happy Belly and her subsidiaries. Forward-Looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates at the date the statements are made, and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. There are uncertainties inherent in forward-looking information, including factors beyond the Company's control. There are no assurances that the business plans for Happy Belly described in this news release will come into effect on the terms or time frame described herein. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. For a description of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company and its business and affairs, readers should refer to the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis and other disclosure filings with Canadian securities regulators, which are posted on www.sedarplus.ca. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/197372 Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2024) - Hillcrest Energy Technologies (CSE: HEAT) (OTCQB: HLRTF) (FSE: 7HI) ("Hillcrest" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that, further to its news release dated January 31, 2024, the Company has closed the first tranche of its non-brokered private placement in the amount of 2,530,000 units of the Company (the "Units") at a price of $0.25 per Unit for gross proceeds of $632,000 (the "First Tranche"). The total placement size, cumulative of all tranches, is anticipated to be a maximum of 8,000,000 Units for maximum gross proceeds of $2,000,000 (the "Private Placement"). The Company intends to close the second tranche of the Private Placement in the near future. Each Unit consists of one common share in the capital of the Company (a "Common Share") and one Common Share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder thereof to acquire one Common Share at an exercise price of $0.30 per Common Share for a period of 36 months from the date of issuance. However, the Warrants will be subject to an accelerated expiry upon 30 business days' notice from the Company in the event the Common Shares trade for ten (10) consecutive trading days any time after four (4) months from the date of issuance at a volume-weighted average price of at least $0.50 on the Canadian Securities Exchange. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Private Placement, including the First Tranche, for technology and product development, commercialization, and general working capital. All securities issued in connection with the Private Placement are subject to a four month and one day hold period in accordance with applicable securities laws. The subscribers in the Private Placement included a director and officer of the Company (the "Insider") who subscribed for an aggregate of 440,000 Units. The issuance of Units to the Insider constitutes a "related party transaction" as defined in Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Securityholders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company is relying on the exemption from valuation requirement and minority approval pursuant to subsection 5.5(a) and 5.7(a) of MI 61-101, respectively, for the insider participation in the Private Placement, as the Units do not represent more than 25% of the Company's market capitalization, as determined in accordance with MI 61-101. The securities of the Company referred to in this news release have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any state securities laws. Accordingly, the securities of the Company may not be offered or sold within the United States unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of any offer to buy any securities of the Company in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. Hillcrest also announces an amendment to the terms of the Equity Facility announced on January 17, 2024. The Company and the third-party investor have mutually agreed to increase the commitment fee to 4.9% of the total capital of the Company committed, payable in cash or Common Shares at a deemed price at the greater of the discounted market price permitted under the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "CSE") and 90% of the 10-day average closing bid price of the common shares on the CSE. In addition, the Company has entered into a six-month marketing agreement with Stockhouse Publishing Ltd which is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Market Limited, an Australian publicly listed entity. Stockhouse Publishing Ltd, through its media content department, The Market Online, will assist and raise greater awareness for the Company, focusing on the Australian market through platforms such as HotCopper.com.au. HotCopper.com.au is the leading stock market forum and home to large communities of active investors and market makers in Australia. Pursuant to the contract with Stockhouse Publishing Ltd, which is located at 1130 1055 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC V6E 2E9, will be paid Cdn$50,000 for its services and the Company will choose from a menu of standard and custom advertising and marketing campaigns to reach targeted investor audiences. About Hillcrest Energy Technologies Hillcrest Energy Technologies is a clean technology company developing high value, high performance power conversion technologies and digital control systems for next-generation powertrains and grid-connected renewable energy systems. From concept to commercialization, Hillcrest is investing in the development of energy solutions that will power a more sustainable and electrified future. Hillcrest is publicly traded on the CSE under the symbol "HEAT," on the OTCQB Venture Market as "HLRTF" and the Frankfurt Stock Exchange as "7HI." For more information, please visit: https://hillcrestenergy.tech/. Contact Information Don Currie Chief Executive Officer and Director [email protected] O: +1-604-609-0006 Toll-free: 1-855-609-0006 Cautionary Statement Regarding "Forward-Looking" Information Some of the statements contained in this news release are forward-looking statements and information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of words such as "expects," "intends," "is expected," "potential," "suggests" or variations of such words or phrases, or statements that certain actions, events or results "may," "could," "should," "would," "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking information in this news release includes the completion of additional tranches of the Private Placement, as well as anticipated use of proceeds. This forward-looking information is provided as of the date of this news release. The forward-looking information reflects the current expectations and assumptions of management and is subject to a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any anticipated future results, performance or expectations expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. No assurance can be given that these assumptions will prove correct. Forward-looking statements and information are not historical facts and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties beyond the Company's control. Additional risk factors can also be found in the Company's public filings under the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements, except as may be required by law. THIS NEWS RELEASE IS NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/197337 Durham, North Carolina--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2024) - The International Society of Automation (ISA) today announced wins in multiple categories in the annual Eventeer Awards. The wins recognize two ISA events - the Automation and Leadership Conference and the OT Cybersecurity Summit - and mark the second year in a row that Society events have been awarded. The Eventeer Awards are presented by Vfairs, a leading software provider for event management. The awards spotlight the public's favorite events of the year for categories highlighting strengths in graphics, content, logistical construction, gaming, and mobile app usage. The awards are then voted on publicly and announced after a voting period. The awards ISA won showcase the association's adaptability for events after COVID and their commitment to bringing the best-in-class technical events to the automation industry. ISA events placed in the following categories: Best Mobile App Event-ISA Automation and Leadership Conference Best In-Person Event-ISA Automation and Leadership Conference Best Event: Europe Middle East and Africa (EMEA)-OT Cybersecurity Summit Runner Up Best Event: North America-ISA Automation and Leadership Conference Runner Up Best Out of the Box Event-OT Cybersecurity Summit "ISA is honored to continue to be recognized for the high quality of our events," said Claire Fallon, ISA executive director. "These awards are a testament to how excited our attendees are about our high-quality content, engaging experiences, and productive networking opportunities. Our OT Cybersecurity Summit was a brand-new event in a new location for a Society event. To be recognized as the best event our first year out of the gate is a tremendous accomplishment. We look forward to another compelling slate of ISA events in 2024. I am so proud of the work the ISA team puts on each year to keep this audience attention and keep growing our events." The 2023 Automation and Leadership Conference (ALC) took place on a beautiful mountainside in Colorado Springs, CO, hosted 200+ attendees, three tracks of content on cybersecurity, career building and digital transformation, a live rodeo and Western show at the Honors and Awards Gala, and various networking opportunities for automation professionals. Sujata Tilak, ISA Board Member and Director of the Smart Manufacturing and IIoT Division, had one word to say about the lively Honors and Awards Gala: "Epic!" Ms. Tilak further shared, "ALC offered a wonderful opportunity to meet face to face with ISA leaders and staff and strengthen the bond. All leadership meetings were productive, and the icing was the workshop for section and division leaders. The technical conference was top class with many interesting sessions and keynotes." The OT Cybersecurity Summit proved to be a big hit for ISA in 2023. The event was ISA's first in-person international event in many years and its "Protect Your Fortress with 62443" theme highlighted medieval castle graphics to draw in an audience for ISA's cybersecurity standards. The success of this theme is solidified by winning a Best Event in Europe, Middle East, and Africa Award. Placing second for the Best Out of the Box Event highlights the team's creativity on the project. The event created a large social media buzz for ISA, and attendees had a lot of positive feedback about their experience: Its been amazing networking and meeting new people. Ive enjoyed talking about other peoples experiences in cybersecurity." "Whats been great about this event is all the vendors that are here and being exposed to new products. "It's really refreshing to get such a rich group of professionals in the room all talking about the same challenges. ISA represents the leading standard, so it's the right community for these conversations." Recap videos are available for both award-winning events: Registration is now open for the OT Cybersecurity Summit 2024 to be held in London on 18-19 June. Visit www.isa.org/events for more information about the Society's 2024 slate of conferences, including registration details and sponsorship opportunities. About ISA The International Society of Automation (ISA) is a non-profit professional association founded in 1945 to create a better world through automation. ISA's mission is to empower the global automation community through standards and knowledge sharing. ISA develops widely used global standards and conformity assessment programs; certifies professionals; provides education and training; publishes books and technical articles; hosts conferences and exhibits; and provides networking and career development programs for its members and customers around the world. Learn more at www.isa.org. US Contact: Morgan Foor [email protected] To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/197371 Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2024) - Pasofino Gold Limited (TSXV: VEIN) (OTCQB: EFRGF) (FSE: N07A)("Pasofino" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has closed its non-brokered private placement (announced January 22, 2024) of 6,291,000 units ("Units") at C$0.50 (or US$0.37) per Unit for gross proceeds of approximately C$3.1 million (US$2.3 million) (the "Offering"). Each Unit consisted of one common share of the Company (each, a "Unit Share") and one half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles 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. A total of 6,291,000 common shares and 3,145,500 Warrants were issued pursuant to the financing. All securities issued are subject to a 4 month hold period expiring June 9, 2024. There was no finder's fee paid in connection with the financing. The net proceeds of the Offering will be used by the Company in connection with advancement of the Dugbe Gold Project (the "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. All 6,291,000 Units in the Offering were subscribed by insiders. Hummingbird Resources plc (AIM: HUM) ("HB PLC"), a shareholder (51%) and control person of the Company, subscribed for 5,400,000 Units and Esan Eczacibasi Endustriyel Hammaddeler Sanayi ve Ticaret Anonim ^irketi ("ESAN"), a shareholder (10%) and insider of the Company, subscribed for 891,000 Units. 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 Unit Shares and Warrant Shares have been conditionally accepted by the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSX-V") and is subject to the final acceptance of the TSX-V. See the Company's press releases dated January 22, 2024 for additional details regarding the Offering. 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. 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. Related Party Transaction Each of HB PLC and ESAN are insiders of Pasofino and have participated in the 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: [email protected] 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-V, 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. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/197375 Paid press release content from The Financial Capital. The StreetInsider.com news staff was not involved in its creation. The Red Awards will be recognizing Bob Knakal for a Lifetime Of Success and Leadership on February 29th at The James Nomad Hotel in NYC. One Page Case Studies is proud to announce that JLLs Head of NY Private Capital Group, Bob Knakal, is receiving a Lifetime Achievement in Real Estate Brokerage Award by the RED Awards for his 40 years as an investment sales broker in New York City. For 26 of those years, Mr. Knakal ran a business he co-founded with Paul Massey, Massey Knakal Realty Services which Mr. Knakal served as the Chairman of and which was the dominant investment sales business in New York City from 2001 to 2014 when the company was sold. During this time, according to the CoStar Group, Massey Knakal sold more than three times the number of properties as the #2 company operating in New York. During the 26 years of Massey Knakal, the firm closed over 3,000 sale transactions having a market value in excess of $23 billion. In December of 2014, Cushman & Wakefield purchased Massey Knakal for $100 million. Mr. Knakal served as Chairman of NY Investment Sales at C&W for the duration of his three years there. He then moved to JLL where he was retained as the Chairman of NY Investment Sales. Mr. Bob Knakal now serves as the Head of NY Private Capital Group. Over the course of Mr. Knakals career, he has sold 2,329 properties in New York City, generally considered to be the highest total for any individual broker in the history of NY. Those sales have an aggregate consideration in excess of $22 billion. He is also highly regarded as being the purest implementer of Robert Greenleafs Servant Leadership management style of building up the self-esteem of those around him and encouraging and helping his underlings to do better than him. Based upon this approach, he is also generally considered to be the best mentor in the industry as there are currently 29 companies, or divisions of companies, active in investment sales in NYC that are either owned by, or run by, professionals who learned the business at Massey Knakal, an unprecedented record. While having an unparalleled track record, Mr. Knakal has remained focused on what matters most. My most important deal is the next deal, he said. This entire business revolves around doing all we can for our clients to help them achieve their goals and maximize their results, he added. In 2023, the Knakal Map Room was created. The Map Room is a testament to Mr. Knakal's commitment to NYC real estate. The 30 x 10 foot maps identifies the block and lots of over 27,000 Manhattan building including every development site color coded based on current construction, those in the pipeline and future opportunities. The Map room is having an influence not just in NYC but in local markets nationwide. Commercial Real Estate Brokers are modeling the Map to gain a unique perspective on current trends and the changing opportunities in the market. One Page Case Studies, is happy to congratulate Bob Knakal on this richly deserved recognition. About the company: One Page Case Studies is a digital marketing company specializing in helping businesses and marketing professionals create compelling success stories. Combining the power of storytelling with proven SEO strategies, One Page Case Studies aims to boost brand visibility, generate leads, and connect with its audience. For more information, please visit onepagecasestudies.com. Contact Info: Name: Edward Winslow Email: Send Email Organization: Niche Quest Address: 26 Tory Place Wilton CT 06897 Phone: 203-912-7244 Website: https://onepagecasestudies.com Video URL: https://youtu.be/wLnv6aTWxUY?si=MRaWKix5rNVTKzAm Release ID: 89121096 If you encounter any issues, discrepancies, or concerns regarding the content provided in this press release, or if there is a need for a press release takedown, we urge you to notify us without delay at [email protected]. Our expert team will be available to promptly respond within 8 hours ensuring swift resolution of identified issues or offering guidance on removal procedures. Delivering accurate and reliable information is fundamental to our mission. Paid press release content from The Financial Capital. The StreetInsider.com news staff was not involved in its creation. GreenGo Travel launches a unique Galapagos cruise review tool, aggregating over 99% of cruise reviews to simplify selection. Featuring real customer feedback, it enhances informed travel choices, heralding a new standard in eco-friendly adventures. GreenGo Travel, a leading figure in the realm of eco-friendly travel experiences, proudly announces the launch of an innovative tool that aggregates reviews for over 99% of Galapagos cruise offerings. This initiative is set to redefine how adventurers select their ideal Galapagos cruise, providing transparent and comprehensive Galapagos Cruise Reviews for comparing the myriad of cruise options. This first-of-its-kind tool aims to simplify the cruise selection process by compiling user reviews in one easy-to-navigate location, enabling travelers to make well-informed decisions based on the experiences of previous guests. The launch signifies a major leap forward in ensuring travel planning is as seamless and personalized as possible. Angel Nunez, Sales Manager at GreenGo Travel, shared his enthusiasm about the new tool: "We're thrilled to offer a solution that empowers travelers with the insights they need to select their perfect Galapagos adventure. This tool is more than just a convenience; it's a way for us to uphold our commitment to creating exceptional travel experiences that are informed, transparent, and tailored to our clients' needs." Adding a layer of authenticity to the announcement, a recent customer shared their satisfaction with the platform, stating, "The Natural Paradise boat was also really well run with nice people, good food, and was well organized. We didnt think anything could top Napo in the Amazon, but Galapagos was just as fantastic." This feedback echoes the sentiments of many who have used GreenGo Travel's services, highlighting the quality and organization of the cruises on offer as well as the unmatched beauty of the Galapagos Islands. The unveiling of this review aggregator comes at a pivotal moment, with the demand for unique, sustainable travel options on the rise. GreenGo Travel's dedication to covering over 99% of available Galapagos cruises ensures that users have a vast selection of reviews to consult, spanning luxurious to eco-friendly cruises, thereby fostering an environment of heightened standards and competition among cruise providers. About the company: Founded in 2012 in Quito, Ecuador, GreenGo Travel specializes in sustainable Galapagos cruises and custom tours in Ecuador and Peru. With a mission to simplify travel bookings through innovative technology, we offer an extensive selection of Galapagos cruises and unique experiences in rainforest expeditions. Recognized as Ecuador's Leading Travel Agency from 2021-2023 at the World Travel Awards and lauded by TripAdvisor, we cater to travelers seeking eco-friendly adventures. Our unique in-house booking system underscores our commitment to efficient and responsible tourism. Contact Info: Name: Angel Nunez Email: Send Email Organization: GreenGo Travel Address: Luxemburgo y Portugal, Edificio Braganza, Piso 3, Oficina 9 Phone: 305 929 8980 Website: https://www.greengotravel.com/ Release ID: 89121087 Should any problems, inaccuracies, or doubts arise from the content contained within this press release, we kindly request that you inform us immediately by contacting [email protected]. Our dedicated team will promptly address your concerns within 8 hours, taking necessary steps to rectify identified issues or assist with the removal process. Providing accurate and dependable information is at the core of our commitment to our readers. CHICAGO and LONDON , Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Jenner & Block published its annual Anti-Corruption Enforcement Year in Review , a comprehensive analysis of significant developments in anti-corruption laws and practices worldwide. The content provides a deep dive into 2023 trends in the US, UK , and around the world, covering US Department of Justice (DOJ) and US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) enforcement actions, impactful court decisions and Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) investigations, UK anti-corruption developments, and 2023 Deferred Prosecution Agreements (DPAs), along with visual charts and summaries of key statistics for an informative and interactive experience. "Jenner understands the critical importance of combating corruption in today's global business landscape as a legal imperative and cornerstone of sustainable success, and this robust guide reflects our unwavering commitment to that aim," said Keisha Stanford , Managing Editor and Chair of the firm's Anti-Corruption and FCPA Practice. "Our commitment is not merely to interpret the law but to advocate for the pursuit of justice and safeguard legal foundations. We aim for this Anti-Corruption Enforcement Year in Review to serve as an easy-to-follow and engaging resource." The 2023 report analyzes significant developments in anti-corruption laws and practice pertinent to companies operating in the international marketplace, including a deep dive into FCPA enforcement trends, cases brought against public companies by the SEC, the DOJ announcement of a new Voluntary Self-Disclosure Policy, and Congress passing the Foreign Extortion Prevention Act which will serve as a partner statute to the FCPA, among other timely trends and predictions. The United Kingdom saw several important anti-corruption developments last year. The start of former police chief Nick Ephgrave's SFO tenure brought three new investigations, two of which were kicked off by dawn raids: fraud at a collapsed law firm and a global aviation supplier. "There's never a dull moment in the UK's fight against corruption, and 2023 was no exception. We've seen systemic change with the introduction of the new 'failure to prevent' offence in relation to fraud and a new director of the SFO," noted Jenner Partner and report Co-Editor Lucy Blake . "This year, all eyes are on how companies will respond to the reform of the identification principle and the new offence of failure to prevent fraud, which we expect to take effect towards the end of 2024. Driven by a clear tone from the top from senior management, international companies operating in the UK should use this year to be proactive, take stock of their existing systems and controls to prevent financial misconduct, and test their effectiveness in anticipation of the new legislation." In addition to Keisha and Lucy, Partners Marcus Childress and Jennifer Lee and Associate Tessa Roberts served as editors, with insight from leading lawyers across borders and disciplines. The report draws on the authors' extensive experience in private practice and government, including former senior officials at the DOJ and SEC. View the interactive website . About Jenner & Block's Anti-Corruption and FCPA Practice Jenner & Block's global Anti-Corruption and FCPA Practice helps businesses around the world navigate increasingly aggressive anti-corruption investigations and enforcement with proven strategies. We provide guidance in government negotiations, training, and compliance counseling, conduct internal investigations, and defend individuals and corporations worldwide facing legal, economic, and reputational harm. Our team has in-depth experience involving the FCPA, the UK Bribery Act, and other international anti-corruption laws. Our partners include senior alumni of the DOJ and the US Securities and Exchange Commission who led, created, and implemented key policies impacting anti-corruption enforcement. We help organizations take a proactive stance to compliance and anti-corruption. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/anti-corruption-enforcement-2023-year-in-review-302058176.html SOURCE Jenner & Block BONITA SPRINGS, Fla. , Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Benecard Central Fill, LLC, the mail order pharmacy affiliated with BeneCard PBF, a prescription benefit manager focused on providing superior services to members based on clinical and technological innovations, has been awarded the URAC (Utilization Review Accreditation Commission) Specialty Pharmacy Accreditation. As the undisputed leader in pharmacy accreditation, URAC certifies Benecard's commitment to best practices and validates its corporate pledge to continuously sustain high standards in the health care and pharmacy arenas. "As has been true since its inception, Benecard Central Fill will continue to concentrate its efforts on behalf of its clients and members. Now, having received URAC's Specialty Pharmacy accreditation, BeneCard is recognized for our stringent protocols, and supremely high standards of patient care, ultimately delivering overall better health care for all members," said Michael Perry , President BeneCard PBF and Benecard Central Fill. In earning the renowned "gold star" URAC accreditation, Benecard's proven dedication to its clients and members is recognized by one of the nation's premier certification organizations. Pushing the bounds of industry-leading standards, Benecard joins the ranks of other esteemed innovators influencing patient care. The concluded multi-year review specifically highlights key areas where Benecard excels: An unrivaled patient management program, supported by strong internal process protocols reviewing clinical, financial, and quality of life metric data for program updates and enhancements. Consistent monitoring and measuring of goals underlie a commitment to positive patient outcomes. Company focus on continuous improvement has provided ever-increasing measures of enhanced quality throughout the organization. Creation and adoption of defined risk management standards has characterized BeneCard's critical corporate strategies to protect and manage liabilities. Adherence to stringent patient education and protocols that are disease state and/or drug specific. Documented metrics for dispensing accuracy, distribution accuracy, and adherence. "This accreditation by an external third party validates the strong foundation of processes within our pharmacies along with the measurable results we study and on which we continuously improve," stated Maria Hockenberry, PharmD, Vice President, Pharmacy Operations. Shawn Griffin , M.D., URAC President and CEO noted, "Pharmacies and related pharmaceutical services play a critical role in the health care delivery system now more than ever. Given the complicated nature of chronic disease, pharmacies like Benecard Central Fill do much more than simply fill a prescription. As trusted experts at the frontline of care delivery, they often provide targeted patient support and education to ensure proper medication management. By achieving URAC accreditation, Benecard demonstrates excellence in quality care delivery and their long-term commitment to ensuring patient safety and improving outcomes." About URAC URAC provides independent validation through business/pharmacy accreditation for companies while offering programs to support the needs of our member and pharmacy communities. URAC's vigorous review process ensures that organizations are focused on the highest quality health care throughout all aspects of their operations. About Benecard Central Fill, LLC Benecard Central Fill, LLC, is a state-of-the-art prescription mail service and specialty pharmacy affiliated with BeneCard PBF that offers transparent, acquisition cost-based pricing to all clients. Benecard Central Fill serves members through two locations: Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania and Bonita Springs, Florida . View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/benecard-central-fill-mail-order-pharmacy-awarded-prestigious-urac-accreditation-in-specialty-pharmacy-302058582.html SOURCE BeneCard PBF AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Chrysler is sharing another advance look at a concept that exemplifies a fully electrified future for the Chrysler brand, embracing sustainability-driven exterior and interior design, full autonomy paired with personalized driving experiences, and futuristic technology that expands on the brand's Harmony in Motion ethos of customer-focused, seamless connectivity. A final teaser image will be shared on Feb. 12, 2024. The reveal of the forward-looking concept can be viewed online at chrysler.com on Feb. 13, 2024 , starting at 5:01 a.m. ET . Chrysler Brand The Chrysler brand has delighted customers with distinctive designs, craftsmanship, and advanced innovation and technology since the company was founded in 1925. Chrysler continues to build on that nearly 100-year legacy of creating ingenious products and technologies for mainstream customers, moving forward on an electrified transformation that will launch the brand's first battery-electric vehicle in 2025 and an all-electric portfolio in 2028. The Chrysler Pacifica continues to reinvent the minivan, a segment Chrysler created 40 years ago. The Chrysler Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid symbolizes the brand's electrification evolution, representing the first electrified minivan in the segment and achieving 82 MPGe, an all-electric range of 32 miles and a total range of 520 miles. Chrysler Pacifica delivers the most standard safety features and most advanced available all-wheel-drive system in its class and is also the most awarded minivan over the last seven years with more than 175 honors and industry accolades since its introduction as a minivan. Chrysler is part of the portfolio of brands offered by leading global automaker and mobility provider Stellantis. For more information regarding Stellantis (NYSE: STLA), please visit www.stellantis.com. Follow Chrysler and company news and video on: Company blog: http://blog.stellantisnorthamerica.com Media website: http://media.stellantisnorthamerica.com Chrysler brand: www.chrysler.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/chrysler Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrysler Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrysler or @StellantisNA YouTube: www.youtube.com/chrysler or https://www.youtube.com/StellantisNA View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/chrysler-teases-new-concept-car-vision-of-fully-electrified-future-of-chrysler-brand-302058374.html SOURCE Stellantis Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi (R) seen during their meeting in Xiamen, China, September 4, 2017. Mikhail Svetlov/Getty Images Global crude would hit $150 if India bought more from the Middle East than from Russia, Hardeep Singh Puri told CNBC. "The world is grateful to India for buying Russia's oil," the petroleum and natural gas minister said. Indian companies simply buy from the cheapest source, he explained. Inflows of Russian crude into India are keeping global oil prices from surging, India's Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas said. "If India, instead of buying Russian oil, we start buying more of the Middle Eastern oil, oil prices will not be at $75 or $76; it will be $150," Hardeep Singh Puri told CNBC during the India Energy Week conference. He pushed back on criticism that the country's continued trade with Russia supports Moscow's war in Ukraine, noting that Indian oil companies will snap up the cheapest crude available, with no attention paid to politics. That's likely why discounted Russian barrels made up an all-time high among India's crude imports last year, while flows from the Middle East, a traditional source of trade, hit a record low. "The world is grateful to India for buying Russia's oil," Puri noted. Wild price swings defined crude markets in the latter half of 2023, as production cuts from the OPEC coalition fueled fears that oil prices would eventually breach triple digits. The Israel-Hamas war only added to tensions, while attacks on Red Sea shipping lanes added pressure to the oil trade. But the US' blowout crude production last year has kept prices from rising, dampened further by falling demand and China's economic slowdown. In fact, economists have suggested that geopolitical turmoil is the only factor supporting current price levels crude would otherwise stand at an estimated $70. Although Puri dismissed the political undertones of trading with Russia, Western measures against Moscow have had some impact on India's imports. After Indian refineries took on larger inflows of Saudi oil in January, the minister blamed it on Moscow's failure to comply with the $60 price cap on its exports. The sanction was placed on Russia after its invasion of Ukraine. "When Russian prices don't conform, we buy from Iraq, the UAE, Saudi Arabia," Puri said at the time. Read the original article on Business Insider FEATURING MENUS INSPIRED BY TIKTOK CREATORS AND BROUGHT TO YOU BY VIRTUAL DINING CONCEPTS LOS ANGELES , Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Virtual Dining Concepts, LLC (VDC), the industry leader in the virtual dining space, today announces the expansion of its CREATORS' KITCHEN AS SEEN ON TIKTOK brand in hundreds of new markets. VDC has partnered with top food content creators on TikTok for Creators' Kitchen As Seen On TikTok. The menu is inspired by the hottest viral food trends on TikTok, an extremely popular category on the short form video platform. TikTok, with over 1 billion subscribers, provides a dynamic space for creators to post their original video content including recipes and food hacks. These culinary trend videos have exploded on TikTok generating hundreds-of-millions of views. Along with all the views, followers naturally want to try the recipes themselves. Creators' Kitchen As Seen On TikTok answers that call with a menu featuring the most popular dishes of the moment, delivered directly to the consumers' door. The menu celebrates top creators and offers restaurants across the country the opportunity to opt-in, become a market partner, and participate in the hottest food trends. "Working with TikTok creators to develop and market the menu of this brand has been an exciting endeavor. Creators' Kitchen As Seen On TikTok will be our first virtual brand with an ever-changing menu," said VDC co-founder Robbie Earl. "We believe Creators' Kitchen As Seen On TikTok has set a new standard. With creators steadily producing new recipes and content, Creators' Kitchen As Seen On TikTok will always be relevant and inspiring." The menu draws upon the most popular viral food posts on TikTok and is designed to update according to the hottest current trends, therefore it will change frequently, ensuring that the brand remains fresh and relevant. The current menu items include viral hits such as: Pasta Chips & Dips inspired by @bostonfoodgram Baked Feta Pasta inspired by @feelgoodfoodie Chopped Italian Sandwich inspired by @ninjacue Crispy Lemon Chicken with Arugula inspired by @chefdonny Creamy Shrimp Scampi Linguini inspired by @_jennadenise Cajun Chicken Pasta inspired by @thewotondon Italian Stuffed Bread Sandwich inspired by @justinpausutto Fried Lasagna inspired by @rappingchef Best Pasta Ever inspired by @everything_delish And more. To see if Creators' Kitchen As Seen On TikTok is available in your area and to check out the current menu, simply log onto your favorite food delivery app or visit www.creatorskitchenasseenontiktok.com to order directly from the website. About Virtual Dining Concepts Virtual Dining Concepts is the creator of virtual restaurant brands poised to expand the revenue of independent kitchens. The delivery-only infrastructure, exclusive online platform (with third-party delivery interface), and marketing strategy services guide existing restaurant operators from set-up to inception. Virtual Dining Concepts offers celebrity and non-celebrity backed brands with menus deriving from diverse cuisines. Menus are available for order online through their individual websites, proprietary apps, and most major third-party delivery services. For more information, please visit www.joinvdc.com * "As Seen On TikTok" is used under license from TikTok, Inc., a California corporation View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/creators-kitchen-as-seen-on-tiktok-is-now-available-in-hundreds-of-new-markets-302057106.html SOURCE Virtual Dining Concepts Strategic Acquisition: DeFi Technologies Inc. has completed the acquisition of intellectual property (" IP ") central to the Solana blockchain, aligning with its strategic goal to enhance its presence in the Solana ecosystem. Technologies Inc. has completed the acquisition of intellectual property (" ") central to the blockchain, aligning with its strategic goal to enhance its presence in the ecosystem. Technology Integration: The acquired IP includes advanced features such as liquidity provisioning and innovative trading strategies, crucial for the Company's growth in blockchain technology. The acquired IP includes advanced features such as liquidity provisioning and innovative trading strategies, crucial for the Company's growth in blockchain technology. Enhancing Trading Solutions: This IP is specifically tailored for the Solana -focused trading desk, a collaboration between DeFi Technologies and Valour Inc. , aimed at elevating their trading solutions on the high-performance Solana platform. This IP is specifically tailored for the -focused trading desk, a collaboration between and , aimed at elevating their trading solutions on the high-performance platform. Solana AUM: Solana is a cornerstone in Valour Inc. 's asset management, leading the company's Assets Under Management ("AUM"). TORONTO , Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - DeFi Technologies Inc. (the "Company" or "DeFi Technologies") (NEO: DEFI) (GR: RB9) (OTC: DEFTF), a crypto native technology company that pioneers the convergence of traditional capital markets with the world of decentralised finance ("DeFi"), is pleased to announce that it has completed the acquisition of intellectual property ("IP") from prominent Solana developer Stefan Jrgensen (the "Acquisition"). This Acquisition marks a significant milestone in DeFi Technologies' expansion strategy, focusing on enhancing its offerings in the Solana ecosystem. The IP acquired by DeFi Technologies encompasses a suite of sophisticated features including advanced liquidity provisioning, innovative trading strategies and technologies, along with the distribution, management, and analytics of decentralized financial data. These elements are tailored to support the Solana-focused trading desk operated by both DeFi Technologies and Valour Inc. This acquisition positions DeFi Technologies to significantly elevate its capabilities, offering cutting-edge trading solutions and unique strategies specifically designed for Solana, a blockchain platform rapidly gaining recognition for its outstanding performance capabilities. Mr. Stefan Jrgensen , who has played a pivotal role in developing this IP, joins the DeFi Technologies group. He will take the lead in driving the Company's expansion in DeFi Trading, development, and governance. Mr. Jrgensen 's notable background includes being a part of the initial engineering team at Bitcoin Suisse from 2017 to 2021, where he contributed to the development of a high-security digital asset custody and a core banking system for cryptocurrencies. Additionally, from 2021 to 2023, he was involved in creating various types of smart contracts across different blockchains, including financial contracts like those for trading and settling options on the Solana blockchain. DeFi Technologies plans to expand its team and intensify its efforts in DeFi trading, development, and governance, specifically in areas relating to the newly acquired IP. Solana is a cornerstone in Valour Inc.'s asset management, leading the Company's Assets Under Management ("AUM"). As a blockchain platform, Solana stands out for its high performance, characterized by swift and efficient processing capabilities. It is adeptly engineered to support decentralized applications (dApps) and cryptocurrencies. The platform's distinctive consensus mechanism, Proof of History (PoH) in conjunction with Proof of Stake (PoS), underpins its ability to process transactions rapidly. This feature positions Solana as an attractive option for developers and users who prioritize speed and cost-effectiveness in blockchain solutions. Currently, Solana boasts a market capitalization of approximately $45.7 billion , placing it as the fifth-largest cryptocurrency in the global market. "This strategic acquisition of Solana-based intellectual property is a key milestone for DeFi Technologies and Valour, significantly enhancing our capabilities in the decentralized finance landscape," said Olivier Roussy Newton , CEO of DeFi Technologies. "By integrating this advanced technology, Valour is positioned to deliver superior trading solutions, demonstrating our commitment to leveraging cutting-edge innovations for tangible benefits in our Solana ecosystem offerings." Pursuant to the Agreement, DeFi Technologies issued a total of 7,297,090 common shares of the Company (the "Payment Shares") at a deemed price of $0.55 per Payment Share to Mr. Jrgensen in exchange for all of the IP. The Payment Shares are subject to a lock-up and will be released in five tranches over a period of two years, and be subject to the continued involvement of Mr. Jrgensen with DeFi Technologies and its subsidiaries. No finder fees were paid in connection with the Acquisition. About DeFi Technologies DeFi Technologies Inc. ( NEO: DEFI ) ( GR: RB9 ) ( OTC: DEFTF ) is a crypto native technology company that pioneers the convergence of traditional capital markets with the world of decentralised finance (DeFi). With a dedicated focus on industry-leading Web3 technologies, DeFi Technologies aims to provide widespread investor access to the future of finance. Backed by an esteemed team of professionals with extensive experience in financial markets and digital assets, we are committed to revolutionising the way individuals and institutions interact with the evolving financial ecosystem. Join DeFi Technologies' digital community on Linkedin and Twitter , and for more details, visit https://defi.tech/ About Valour Valour Inc. issues exchange traded products (ETPs) that enable retail and institutional investors to access digital assets like Bitcoin in a simple and secure way via their traditional bank account. Established in 2019, Valour is a wholly owned subsidiary of DeFi Technologies Inc. ( NEO: DEFI ) ( GR: RB9 ) ( OTC: DEFTF ). For more information on Valour, visit https://valour.com Cautionary note regarding forward-looking information: This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to the development and benefits of the IP; the Solana blockchain; expansion of DeFi Technologies trading, development and governance lines of business; development and listing of future ETPs; the regulatory environment with respect to the growth and adoption of decentralized finance; the pursuit by DeFi and its subsidiaries of business opportunities; and the merits or potential returns of any such opportunities. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company, as the case may be, to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such risks, uncertainties and other factors include, but is not limited the acceptance of Valour exchange traded products by exchanges; growth and development of decentralised finance and cryptocurrency sector; rules and regulations with respect to decentralised finance and cryptocurrency; general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/defi-technologies-inc-completes-strategic-acquisition-of-leading-solana-trading-systems-ip-302058451.html SOURCE DeFi Technologies Inc. Del Monte Fruit Refreshers and Take Root Organics Receive Top Honor for Product of the Year WALNUT CREEK, Calif. , Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Del Monte Foods, Inc. is a winner of the Product of the Year awards, solidifying the company as a long-standing favorite following many years of winning products within various categories. The company this year won two awards: first in the healthy snack category for one of its newest innovations, Del Monte Fruit Refreshers and another in the meal ingredient category for Take Root Organics. Del Monte Foods Wins 2024 Product of the Year Award in Two Categories "At Del Monte Foods, we remain committed to providing high quality, nutritious and delicious foods that families can afford. We are thrilled to see our newest innovation, Del Monte Fruit Refreshers, and our new organic tomato brand, Take Root Organics, receive nationwide recognition from shoppers," said Bibie Wu , Chief Marketing Officer. "Del Monte Foods has a proud legacy as a leader in the vegetables and fruits categories and we continue to bring innovation to meet the varied needs of our consumers' lifestyles." Receiving top honors in the healthy snack category, Del Monte Foods' Fruit Refreshers are a refreshing fruit cup snack with levelled up flavors, both nourishing and perfect for on-the-go. Each 7 oz. cup offers a one-two punch of great flavor and an excellent source of vitamin C. These convenient snacking solutions come in six refreshing flavors (Peaches in Honeysuckle Flavored Fruit Water, Pineapple & Mango in Prickly Pear Flavored Fruit Water, Grapefruit & Oranges in Pomegranate Flavored Fruit Water, Peaches & Chia in Strawberry Dragon Fruit Flavored Fruit Water, Red Grapefruit in Guava Flavored Fruit Water, and Pears & Chia in BlackBerry Flavored Limeade). Winning in the meal ingredient category, Take Root Organics is a line of Certified USDA Organic, non-GMO canned tomatoes. Take Root Organics is accessibly priced so that families can more easily access organic products, grown with the utmost care by a select community of farms in Central California . The line includes five organic products: tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and whole-peeled tomatoes. Product of the Year is the world's largest consumer-voted award for product innovation. Winners are determined by the votes of 40,000 consumers in a nationally representative survey conducted by research partner Kantar, a global leader in consumer research. This year marked 16 years of the award in the U.S. and more than 30 years globally. Del Monte Foods's Fruit Refreshers and Take Root Organics tomatoes are available at major national retailers like Walmart and Kroger. For more information and to locate a store near you, visit www.delmonte.com and www.takerootorganics.com. About Del Monte Foods For more than 135 years, Del Monte Foods, Inc. has been driven by our mission to nourish families with earth's goodness. As the original plant-based food company, we're always innovating to make nutritious and delicious foods more accessible to consumers across our portfolio of beloved brands, including Del Monte, Contadina, College Inn , Kitchen Basics, JOYBA, Take Root Organics and S&W. We believe that everyone deserves great tasting food they can feel good about, which is why we grow and produce our products using sustainable and earth-friendly practices for a healthier tomorrow. Del Monte Foods, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of Del Monte Pacific Limited (Bloomberg: DELM SP, DELM PM) and is not affiliated with certain other Del Monte companies around the world, including Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc., Del Monte Canada, or Del Monte Asia Pte. Ltd. For more information about Del Monte Foods and our products, please visit www.delmontefoods.com or www.delmonte.com. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/del-monte-foods-wins-2024-product-of-the-year-award-in-two-categories-302058181.html SOURCE Del Monte David Jeremiah Partnering with Latin America to Deliver the Gospel SAN DIEGO , Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- "Let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season, we shall reap if we do not lose heart." This verse from the New Testament book of Galatians has been one of the guiding principles for the growth of David Jeremiah's broadcast ministry, Turning Point with David Jeremiah . In January of 2001, Jeremiah took the first step in translating his radio broadcast into a foreign language. Knowing that Spanish is the second-most-spoken language in North America and being headquartered in Southern California , he seized an opportunity to start broadcasting in Spanish and officially launched the Momento Decisivo radio program. It's about transforming lives. Over the past twenty years, Momento Decisivo has experienced remarkable growth, providing Bible Strong content across multiple channels and through a variety of resources. Last September, the Momento Decisivo television program celebrated its first full year of nationwide and local airings on stations across the US and Latin America . Today, Momento Decisivo reaches 42 million Spanish speakers in the US and 12 million bilingual speakers around the globe through radio, television, print, and digital resources. Turning Point is actively delivering the unchanging Word of God to an ever-changing world through strategic partnerships in the US and Latin America with radio and television stations, churches, parachurch organizations, and local communities. Currently, Momento Decisivo programming reaches 359 stations across 20 countries. These partnerships have enabled the Gospel's transformative power to be shared with Spanish-speaking audiences worldwide. "Jesus gave us a global task, and no matter how large our global task is, it all starts at home. All of this started with a calling God place in my heart, and now when you have great team working on it, the efforts are multiplied, and it takes off into so many directions and expands," said Jeremiah. Yessenia Jimenez , the manager of Momento Decisivo added, " Latin America is a region with deep and diverse spiritual landscape, a place where faith and culture intertwine, and solid biblical teaching is more crucial than ever. On a recent trip I was struck by the pressing needs of the community and experienced first-hand the urgency of providing solid biblical teaching through the local churches and universities. Momento Decisivo aims to help address this need by offering relevant, inspiring, and transformative content." By working with our Latin American partners, Momento Decisivo can provide resources to stations, churches, universities, and parachurch organizations that help them spread the message of faith, hope, and everlasting love in ways that meet the unique needs of their community and region. As Turning Point continues leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance the quality and accessibility of its broadcasts and digital resources, Momento Decisivo is no exception. Spanish-language broadcasts and digital content are constantly being advanced via streaming services, mobile applications, and interactive platforms, allowing audiences to engage with the ministry's content in various ways. The partnership extends beyond traditional broadcasting and digital content with collaborative efforts to develop additional resources to support spiritual growth and discipleship. This past Christmas, Turning Point's feature-length docu-drama Por Que la Natividad? was re-released with a promotional campaign that encouraged watch parties and included church kits to study the Nativity story further, and participation was amazing. Here is a glimpse of how the Por Que la Natividad? campaign performed between Thanksgiving and Christmas-: 152K views of Por Que La Natividad? on YouTube on YouTube 6,514 views of Por Que La Natividad? on the official Spanish landing page on the official Spanish landing page 2,309 subscriptions to Por Que La Natividad? devotional plan on YouVersion devotional plan on YouVersion 175 Spanish church kit downloads 72 Church hosted watch parties with a potential audience of 223,840 35 Television broadcasts with 3 new stations for 2023 Canal 27 in Guatemala Asociacion Cultural Cristo Vision in Costa Rica Emmanuel TV in Mexico But it's not about the numbers; it's about transforming lives. Each of these numbers symbolizes a life, and while we may never know the full impact, we are blessed to hear stories from our partners, like Edificadores del Reino, who held a special showing of Por Que la Natividad? in December where 47 children came to know Christ. With Momento Decisivo, Turning Point and its Latin American partners are committed to providing content and resources that empower individuals to deepen their understanding of the Christian faith and live Bible Strong lives. As Turning Point continues to expand its reach and impact, the organization remains dedicated to its mission of delivering the unchanging Word of God to an everchanging world. Through the power of radio, television, and digital outreach the ministry aims to bring the Gospel to all the hearts and homes of individuals and families across Latin America and the Spanish-speaking world. For more information about Momento Decisivo and its Spanish-language programming, please visit https://www.momentodecisivo.org/. Dr. David Jeremiah is a renowned Bible teacher, New York Times bestselling author, and founder/host of Turning Point Broadcast Ministry. With more than 40 years of ministry and "just getting started," his teaching has led to the creation of the Prophecy Academy , OVERCOMER, Airship Genesis , PassagesTV, Why the Nativity? , and PerhapsToday to name a few. About Turning Point Turning Point Ministries was founded in 1982 as the broadcast ministry of Dr. David Jeremiah to deliver the unchanging Word of God to an ever-changing world. More than three decades later, with a multimedia network featuring radio, television, online programming, magazine, and books, Turning Point reaches people around the globe with the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Turning Point is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization wholly supported by its patrons and not underwritten by any church or organization. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/delivering-the-gospel-to-spanish-speakers-across-the-globe-302057884.html SOURCE Turning Point Ministries Michael F. Johnston appointed Lead Independent Director DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. , Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Dover (NYSE: DOV) today announced that its Board of Directors has appointed President and Chief Executive Officer Richard J. Tobin to the additional role of Chairman of the Board. In addition, the independent directors of the Board have appointed the current Chairman, Michael F. Johnston , to the role of lead independent director. Both appointments are effective February 10, 2024 . Mr. Tobin has served as a director since 2016 and as President and Chief Executive Officer since 2018. Mr. Johnston has served as Board Chairman since 2016 and as a director since 2013. Mr. Johnston said, "The Board's appointment of Rich as Chairman reflects our conviction in Dover's strength and strategic direction. Rich's appointment as Chairman will further support effective decision-making and execution of corporate strategy. As a Board, we look forward to continuing to work with Rich in his new role to continue delivering long-term value for our shareholders." Mr. Tobin said, "I am honored to be appointed to serve as Dover's next Chairman and want to express my gratitude to the Board for its support and to Mike for his many contributions as Chairman. I thank him for his leadership and look forward to continuing to work with him as Lead Independent Director." In connection with these appointments, the Board amended the Company's Corporate Governance Guidelines to require a Lead Independent Director when the Chairman is not independent and to define the duties of the Lead Independent Director. About Dover: Dover is a diversified global manufacturer and solutions provider with annual revenue of over $8 billion . We deliver innovative equipment and components, consumable supplies, aftermarket parts, software and digital solutions, and support services through five operating segments: Engineered Products, Clean Energy & Fueling, Imaging & Identification, Pumps & Process Solutions, and Climate & Sustainability Technologies. Dover combines global scale with operational agility to lead the markets we serve. Recognized for our entrepreneurial approach for over 65 years, our team of over 25,000 employees takes an ownership mindset, collaborating with customers to redefine what's possible. Headquartered in Downers Grove, Illinois , Dover trades on the New York Stock Exchange under "DOV." Additional information is available at dovercorporation.com. Forward-Looking Statements: This press release contains "forward-looking" statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, including statements related to the Company's expectations regarding the performance of its business and its financial results. All statements in this document other than statements of historical fact are statements that are, or could be deemed, "forward-looking" statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous important risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors, some of which are beyond the Company's control. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things, general economic conditions and conditions in the particular markets in which we operate, changes in customer demand and capital spending, competitive factors and pricing pressures, our ability to develop and launch new products in a cost-effective manner, and our ability to realize synergies from newly acquired businesses. For details on the risks and uncertainties that could cause our results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements that may be contained herein, we refer you to the documents we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 , and any subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K. These documents are available from the SEC, and on our website, www.dovercorporation.com. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Investor Contact: Media Contact: Jack Dickens Adrian Sakowicz Senior Director Investor Relations Vice President Communications (630) 743-2566 (630) 743-5039 [email protected] [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/dover-board-appoints-richard-j-tobin-as-chairman-302058837.html SOURCE Dover BOCA RATON, Fla. , Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Former U.S. President Donald Trump takes the lead over incumbent U.S. President Joe Biden by 4 percent, according to the latest findings from the FAU Political Communication and Public Opinion Research Lab (PolCom Lab) and Mainstreet Research. Battleground America: Trump Holds Slight Edge Over Biden in National Poll According to the national survey, 41 percent of registered voters expressed support for Trump, while 37 percent favored Biden. Another 13 percent opted for alternative candidates while 9 percent remained undecided. These findings echo recent polls showing Trump consistently leading Biden by margins ranging from 1 to 4 percent. Demographic Divide: Trump's Lead Reflects Shift in Voter Support Demographic analysis of the poll data highlights the role of racial and ethnic identity in shaping candidate support. Although Biden maintains strong backing from African Americans at 63 percent, his support among white voters (32 percent) and Hispanics (33 percent) is notably lower. Conversely, Trump garners significant support from white voters (48 percent), Hispanics (41 percent), and 17 percent of African Americans. Further examination reveals Trump's strong hold on white non-college graduates, with 52 percent favoring him over Biden. "Former President Trump is maintaining a commanding lead with white non-college-educated voters. This group has been steadfast and largely unmoved in their support of the former president," said Kevin Wagner , Ph.D., professor of political science at FAU. Among Democrats who voted for their own party candidate in 2020, 72 percent chose Biden in the poll, while 86 percent of Republican voters did so for Trump. "Trump commands substantively higher support from his own party members than Biden, which could be a strong asset for Trump but poses a serious threat to Biden," said Dukhong Kim, Ph.D., associate professor of political science at FAU. "To improve his chances of victory, Biden must enhance support among African Americans and Hispanics, traditional Democratic Party constituencies, while also strengthening his appeal among party members to increase his chances to win the presidency." With 79 percent of voters expressing a strong likelihood of maintaining their current choice in November, Biden faces the challenge of swaying the remaining 21 percent who are undecided. Among younger cohorts aged 18-34, there's a notable trend of 20 percent expressing uncertainty about maintaining their current choice, compared with older cohorts, where only 4 percent of those aged 65 and over and 8 percent of those aged 50-64 share similar sentiments. In line with the outcome of the presidential election vote choice, the approval rating of Biden's performance as president reflects a challenging scenario. Currently, 38 percent approve of his performance (23 percent strongly approve and 15 percent somewhat approve), while 57 percent disapprove (38 percent strongly disapprove and 19 percent somewhat disapprove). Of note, his job approval rating closely mirrors that of Trump's at 34 percent in January 2020 . Democrats Edge Ahead: FAU Poll Reveals Slight Lead in Congressional Elections "Congressional elections are again likely to be fairly close suggesting that either party may control the House in the next year," said Wagner. The Democratic Party holds a slight advantage over the Republican Party, with 39 percent of voters favoring Democrats compared to 36 percent for Republicans. Once again, racial and ethnic factors play a significant role, with African Americans showing stronger support for Democratic candidates (62 percent) than whites (33 percent) and Hispanics (48 percent). While there are differences in the relationship between partisan voters and their choice for representatives, the magnitude of the difference (6 percent) is not as big as the choice for the presidential candidate (14 percent). This poll was conducted from Friday, Feb. 2 to Saturday, Feb. 3 , among a sample of 1,180 adults, 18 years of age or older, living in the United States . The survey was conducted using a text message survey of registered voters and an online panel of registered voters, so a margin of error cannot be assigned. The survey is intended to represent the voting population in United States . About Florida Atlantic University: Florida Atlantic University, established in 1961, officially opened its doors in 1964 as the fifth public university in Florida . Today, the University serves more than 30,000 undergraduate and graduate students across six campuses located along the southeast Florida coast. In recent years, the University has doubled its research expenditures and outpaced its peers in student achievement rates. Through the coexistence of access and excellence, FAU embodies an innovative model where traditional achievement gaps vanish. FAU is designated a Hispanic-serving institution, ranked as a top public university by U.S. News & World Report and a High Research Activity institution by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. For more information, visit www.fau.edu. About Florida Atlantic University PolCom Lab: The Florida Atlantic University Department of Political Science and the School of Communication and Multimedia Studies, in collaboration in with Mainstreet Research, established the PolCom Lab to investigate and analyze public opinion and political trends across the nation, and particularly in the state of Florida . For more information, visit www.faupolling.com. About Mainstreet Research: Founded in 2010, Mainstreet Research is recognized as one of Canada's top public opinion and market research firms. Since our founding, we have been providing actionable and data-driven insights to our clients to help them make their most important evidence-based strategic decisions. Mainstreet Research is a proud corporate member of CRIC and exceeds all Canadian and international standards for market research and public opinion research. Provided by Newswise, online resource for knowledge-based news at www.newswise.com Media Contacts: Joshua Glanzer Associate Vice President, Media Relations and Public Affairs [email protected] Phone: 561-297-1168 View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/fau-and-mainstreet-research-national-poll-reveals-tight-us-presidential-race-302056472.html SOURCE Florida Atlantic University SHIJIAZHUANG, China , Feb. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from Great Wall New Media: This year marks the first year that Chinese Spring Festival has been officially listed as a UN floating holiday. From a Chinese traditional folk festival to a UN floating holiday, the Spring Festival, as an important part of traditional Chinese culture, is showing its unique charm and influence to the world. The correspondents of Great Wall International Communication Center have recently sent reports on how locals celebrate Chinese Spring Festival. Chief planner: Wang Yuelu Chief supervisor: Li Yao Planner: Cao Zhaoyang Choreographer-director: Zhang Menglin Post-production Editor: Liu Zhicheng Coordinators: Zheng Bai , Song Lifang , Li Wenpei, Mi Wenting (Intern) Script writer: Song Lifang View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/global-link-chinese-spring-festival-celebrated-across-world-302057306.html SOURCE Great Wall New Media HMB-001 was well tolerated with no drug-related adverse or thromboembolic events; dose-dependent improvements in blood-clotting activity support the potential of HMB-001 as a first-in-class prophylactic treatment for Glanzmann Thrombasthenia and other blood clotting disorders Preclinical HMB-001 findings were published in the February 2024 issue of Nature Cardiovascular Research COPENHAGEN, Denmark and CAMBRIDGE, Mass. , Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Hemab Therapeutics, a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel prophylactic therapeutics for serious, underserved bleeding and thrombotic disorders, today presented initial results from Phase 1 of its ongoing evaluation of HMB-001. A novel bispecific antibody, HMB-001 is in development as a prophylactic treatment for the bleeding disorder Glanzmann Thrombasthenia (Glanzmann). The data were presented as one of 10 abstracts selected for the SLAM oral presentation session at the 17th Annual Congress of the European Association for Haemophilia and Allied Disorders (EAHAD) held this week in Frankfurt, Germany . "The first clinical data for HMB-001 in Glanzmann suggest that the demonstrated mechanism is suitable as a new prophylactic treatment for people with neglected blood clotting disorders who face severe, potentially life-threatening bleeds every day," said Joe Vogel , Senior Director and Program Lead for HMB-001 at Hemab. "With Phase 2 already underway, we are committed to advancing clinical evaluation of HMB-001 toward bringing life-changing preventative treatments to improve patients' quality of life." The Phase 1/2 first-in-human open-label study in patients with Glanzmann is evaluating the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of HMB-001. As part of the UK -based Phase 1 single-ascending dose, seven patients received subcutaneous HMB-001 at 0.2 mg/kg, (n=1), 0.5 mg/kg (n=3) or 1.25 mg/kg (n=3). Over a 56-day observation period, HMB-001 was well tolerated; the most common adverse events (AEs) were mild or moderate in severity. No AEs or serious adverse events were deemed related to HMB-001. There were no dose-limiting toxicities and no thromboembolic events reported. Treatment with HMB-001 resulted in a dose-dependent pharmacodynamic effect of endogenous Factor VIIa accumulation that was associated with decreases in prothrombin time and improvement in exploratory thrombin generation analyses. The pharmacokinetic profile and half-life of HMB-001 support dosing every two weeks or a less-frequent dosing regimen. "People living with bleeding disorders like Glanzmann face devastating bleed events and considerable psychosocial impactsfrom severe pain and social stigmatization to depression and isolationbut have no approved preventative treatments to turn to," said Suthesh Sivapalaratnam, MD, PhD, Queen Mary University of London, Barts Health NHS Trust. "These Phase 1 data support further investigation into the promise of HMB-001 for patients and providers across the globe who are awaiting innovation to improve the standard of care." Hemab has begun dosing and is actively enrolling in Phase 2, the multiple-ascending dose of the study, which will be expanded to sites across Europe and the U.S. For more information, visit clinicaltrials.gov (NCT06211634). In addition, Hemab announced that preclinical research findings of HMB-001 are now available online as part of the February 2024 issue of Nature Cardiovascular Research. The study results demonstrate the ability of HMB-001 to accumulate and potentiate the activity of endogenous Factor VIIa selectively on activated platelets, providing a sustained and localized procoagulant activity that may support prophylactic treatment of Glanzmann or other bleeding disorders. Read the paper here. About Glanzmann Thrombasthenia Glanzmann Thrombasthenia (Glanzmann) is a rare and severe bleeding disorder associated with debilitating and sometimes life-threatening bleeding episodes. Initial findings from the international Glanzmann's 360 (GT360) natural history studyHemab's research initiative in partnership with UK specialist research consultancy Haemnetfound that 87% of the 104 respondents reported experiencing at least one bleed in the previous week, with 37% of those bleeds requiring medical treatment. These bleeding episodes significantly impact the mental health and quality of life of people living with Glanzmann. Low mood, emotional problems, and social isolation were reported by participants (66%, 50%, and 44% respectively), and 80% reported that they missed school or work due to bruising or bleeding. To date, there are no effective prophylactic treatment options for Glanzmann. About HMB-001 HMB-001 is bispecific antibody that binds and stabilizes endogenous Factor VIIa with one antibody arm and binds to TLT-1 on activated platelets with the other arm. This allows for accumulation of endogenous Factor VIIa in the body, recruitment of Factor VIIa directly to the surface of the activated platelets where it is known to facilitate clotting, and avoidance of clotting activity in the absence of tissue damage. HMB-001 is designed to be a first-in-class prophylactic treatment for Glanzmann Thrombasthenia with the potential to treat other debilitating rare bleeding disorders. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted Fast Track Designation to HMB-001 for the treatment of Glanzmann. About Hemab Therapeutics Hemab is a clinical-stage biotech company developing novel prophylactic therapeutics for serious, underserved bleeding and thrombotic disorders. Based in Cambridge, MA and Copenhagen, Denmark , Hemab is progressing a pipeline of monoclonal and bispecific antibody-based therapeutics to transform the treatment paradigm for patients with high unmet need. The company's strategic guidance, Hemab 1-2-5, targets the development of 5 assets by 2025 to deliver long-awaited innovation for patients with high unmet need blood-clotting disorders like Glanzmann Thrombasthenia, Factor VII Deficiency, Von Willebrand Disease, and others. Learn more at hemab.com. Follow us on LinkedIn and X (formerly known as Twitter). View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hemab-therapeutics-presents-positive-phase-1-results-for-hmb-001-in-glanzmann-thrombasthenia-at-2024-eahad-annual-congress-302057910.html SOURCE Hemab Therapeutics Joint venture by seven major automakers receives approval from regulatory agencies IONNA plans to deploy a minimum of 30,000 chargers with the first charging stations expected to open in the U.S. in 2024, followed by Canada in 2024, followed by Seth Cutler , formerly of EV Connect, appointed as Chief Executive Officer, effective February 1 TORRANCE, Calif. , Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Announced in July 2023 , IONNA, the joint venture to build a high-powered EV charging network across North America , has received approval from regulatory authorities, and is now officially commencing operations. IONNA is a joint venture of seven of the world's foremost automakers: BMW, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, and Stellantis. With Seth Cutler , newly appointed as the Chief Executive Officer, IONNA targets to become one of the most accessible and reliable high-powered charging networks in North America with plans to deploy at least 30,000 chargers. Seth Cutler to lead IONNA Cutler brings a wealth of experience in electric mobility and charging to shape the joint venture right from the start. In his role as Senior Vice President of Technical Operations at EV Connect, Cutler drastically expanded the network of charging station manufacturers. Most recently serving as the President and Chief Operations Officer, he started several initiatives to transform the company from a 'start-up' to a 'scale-up' phase. Before joining EV Connect, Cutler took the lead in engineering, orchestrating the development and implementation of a high-powered charging network as Chief Engineer in the early phase of Electrify America. He started his career at General Electric (GE), where his versatile roles included that of General Manager of EV infrastructure. In this capacity, he focused on the development, manufacturing, and deployment of charging stations, contributing significantly to GE's footprint in the electric mobility sector. "I am honored to lead IONNA and work alongside these esteemed automakers in shaping the future of electric mobility. Our shared commitment to creating an extensive, high-powered charging network reflects our dedication to revolutionizing the entire EV charging experience and helping to drive widespread EV adoption," said Seth Cutler, CEO IONNA. Elevating the Customer Experience IONNA's charging network will be accessible to all electric vehicles with NACS or CCS connectors and aims to provide a seamless, vehicle-integrated, best-in-class charging experience. This will be realized by providing various amenities, such as restrooms, food service, and retail operations nearby or within the same complex, digital integration and appealing locations. Customers can expect convenient locations that will come with canopies wherever possible to even further focus on unprecedented customer comfort and charging ease. The network's functions and services will facilitate seamless integration with participating automakers' in-vehicle and in-app experiences, encompassing reservations, intelligent route planning and navigation, payment applications, transparent energy management, and additional features. IONNA's charging stations are intended to be powered by renewable energy, and backed by the combined quality, reliability, and resources of the world's leading automakers. IONNA targets to establish a minimum of 30,000 high-powered charging stations strategically positioned throughout North America . The joint venture anticipates opening its first charging stations in the United States in 2024, with plans for expansion into Canada at a later stage. Each site will feature multiple high-powered chargers to facilitate long-distance journeys, aligning with the sustainability strategies of all seven automakers. About IONNA IONNA LLC is a limited liability company formed by BMW, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz and Stellantis. By the close of this decade, IONNA aims to become a leading force in providing convenient, accessible, and reliable North American fast-charging infrastructure to significantly enhance the appeal of zero-emission driving for millions of customers. www.ionna.com View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/high-powered-ev-charging-network-ionna-begins-operations-in-north-america-302058221.html SOURCE IONNA Leading nonprofit, integrated health care organization maintains focus on its mission while navigating a dynamic health care environment. OAKLAND, Calif. , Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc., Kaiser Foundation Hospitals, and their respective subsidiaries (KFHP/H) reported 2023 annual financial results that reflect a commitment to deliver on its mission to provide high-quality, affordable care and services amid ongoing industrywide challenges of high medical costs and a competitive labor environment. Primary expense drivers for the health care sector in 2023 included the high costs of goods and services; prescription drug prices; high volumes of deferred care; continued COVID-19, flu, and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) services; and costs associated with the labor environment. Kaiser Permanente met these challenges by reducing administrative costs and pursuing efficiencies while expanding access to its high-quality care. Operating income was $329 million for the year compared to an operating loss of $1.3 billion in 2022. Operating revenues for 2023 were $100.8 billion compared to $95.4 billion in 2022. Operating expenses were $100.5 billion compared to $96.7 billion in the prior year. Separate from operating income, other income (net of other expense) was $3.8 billion in 2023, compared to a loss of $3.2 billion in 2022. Other income in 2023 consisted primarily of investment returns, which offset the losses experienced in 2022. As a result of swings in the financial market, net income was $4.1 billion for 2023 compared to a net loss of $4.5 billion for 2022. "I want to thank the people of Kaiser Permanente for their hard work in 2023 to provide members and patients with a positive experience at all touch points while also embracing new ways to drive efficiencies, improve access, and advance health outcomes," said chair and chief executive officer Greg A. Adams . "Together, we navigated another challenging year and are on a path to deliver on our mission and bring our distinct brand of value-based care to more people." Membership Kaiser Permanente had more than 12.5 million members as of December 31, 2023 , a decline of nearly 51,000 members over the prior year, due to the slowing pace of job growth and other economic factors. Improving community health In 2023, Kaiser Permanente supported a wide range of community health programs with an investment of $3.1 billion , compared to $2.8 billion the year prior. These programs focused on addressing the public health crisis of gun violence, helping more people access healthy food, and supporting nonprofits that help people better manage their finances. Notably, the Kaiser Permanente Medical Financial Assistance program provided nearly 412,000 low-income and uninsured patients more than $668 million in assistance to cover part or all of their medical expenses. In August 2023 , Kaiser Permanente launched the Kaiser Permanente Community Support Hub, dedicated to helping people connect to resources to meet their daily needs such as food, housing, and utilities. Kaiser Permanente screened more than 2.6 million members for social needs in 2023 and connected nearly 350,000 members to vital programs. Capital spending Kaiser Permanente continued to execute its capital strategy in 2023. Capital spending totaled $3.8 billion , compared to $3.5 billion the prior year. In August 2023 , Kaiser Permanente opened the San Marcos Medical Center, a 433,000-square-foot facility serving members and patients in San Diego County, California . As of December 31, 2023 , Kaiser Permanente had 618 medical offices, 40 owned hospitals, and 43 retail and employee clinics. Consumer-focused digital care and service Kaiser Permanente invested in leading-edge technology that supports its physicians and care teams to improve the member experience and patient outcomes. For example: To support convenient access to care, scheduled phone and video visits totaled more than 22 million in 2023. To help improve medication adherence for better health outcomes, Kaiser Permanente expanded its digital portfolio to include opt-in prescription refill reminders through text messages and mobile notifications to help patients remember when to take their medications. Members filled nearly 50 million online prescription orders through kp.org or the mobile app in 2023. To help manage ongoing conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, more than 86,000 members enrolled in remote care programs, which allow their care teams to access real-time health evaluations in between medical appointments. "Kaiser Permanente remains committed to providing affordable care and coverage for our members as we continue to mitigate increased costs in this evolving health care environment," said executive vice president and chief financial officer Kathy Lancaster . "By fulfilling our mission, eliminating inefficiencies, and investing in technology, facilities, and our communities, we are on a financially sustainable path." 2023 and 2022 annual financial summary ($ in millions) 2023 2022 Operating revenues $100,847 $95,408 Operating expenses $100,518 $96,678 Operating income (loss) $329 ( $1,270 ) Operating margin 0.3 % (1.3 %) Other income (net other expense) $3,793 ( $3,198 ) Net income (loss) $4,122 ( $4,468 ) Capital spending $3,821 $3,528 Note: Certain statements included in this document may constitute "forward-looking statements." Such statements are generally identifiable by the terminology used, such as "plan," "project," "forecast," "expect," "estimate," "budget," or other similar words. The achievement of certain results or other expectations contained in such forward-looking statements involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, which may cause actual results, performance, or achievements described to be materially different from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, actual results will vary and the variations may be material. None of the KFHP/H organizations plan to issue any updates or revisions to those forward-looking statements if or when expectations change, or events, conditions, or circumstances on which such statements are based occur. About Kaiser Permanente Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America's leading health care providers and nonprofit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve 12.5 million members in 8 states and the District of Columbia . Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health. For more information, go to about.kp.org. Contact: Stephen Shivinsky [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kaiser-foundation-health-plan-and-hospitals-report-2023-financial-results-302058872.html SOURCE Kaiser Permanente A person puts gas in a vehicle at a gas station in Manhattan, New York City By Laura Sanicola (Reuters) -Oil prices settled higher on Friday, up about 6% on a week-on-week basis, as worries about supply from the Middle East mounted and as reining outages tightened refined products markets. Brent crude futures settled up 56 cents, or 0.7%, at $82.19 a barrel. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures settled up 62 cents or 0.8%, at $76.84 a barrel. Oil futures rose throughout the week, buoyed after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's rejection of a Hamas ceasefire proposal on Wednesday. This week's rise followed a 7% loss in the prior week. "We believe that this type of week-to-week wide price swings will further characterize the crude markets through the rest of this month short of major bullish headlines out of the Mideast that could force adjustment in global oil balances," said Jim Ritterbusch, president of Ritterbusch and Associates LLC in Galena, Illinois. U.S. energy firms this week also added 4 oil and natural gas rigs to 623 this week, its highest since mid-December, energy services firm Baker Hughes said in its closely followed report. U.S. domestic production returned this week to a record 13.3 million barrels per day level, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Last month, frigid weather caused widespread shut-ins in oil producing regions. Israeli forces on Friday continued deadly air strikes on the Gaza Strip. On Thursday, the bombing of the southern border city of Rafah helped boost oil prices by around 3%. "With the words that, 'no part of the Gaza Strip would be immune from Israel's offensive', it was not hard for oil participants to conclude that without even a passing regard for peace, there was not enough conflict-premium priced in," said John Evans, an analyst at PVM. Crude futures were also supported by strength in gasoline and diesel prices as significant U.S. refinery downtime, both planned and unplanned, tightened product markets. Story continues Gasoline futures rose about 9% in the week to $2.34 per gallon while heating oil futures increased by 11% to $2.96 per gallon. Ukraine launched drone attacks against two oil refineries in southern Russia on Friday, resulting in a fire at the Ilsky refinery. The Afipsky refinery, also in Krasnodar Krai, which borders Crimea on the Black Sea and Azov Sea coast, was the other facility in the attack. Russia has been exporting more crude in February than planned under an OPEC+ deal, following a combination of drone attacks and technical outages at its refineries. "Proof still needs to be provided that Russia is able to cut oil exports sufficiently even without weather-related constraints," Carsten Fritsch, an analyst at Commerzbank, said on Friday in reference to the country's OPEC+ cut quota. On Thursday, the U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned another three entities based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and one tanker registered by Liberia for violating a cap placed on the price of Russian oil by a coalition of Western nations. (Additional reporting by Robert Harvey Ahmad Ghaddar in London and Florence Tan in Singapore; Editing by Susan Fenton and Paul Simao) Biden Administration Commitment to Improve Organ Transplantation Contradicted and Undermined by Medicare Contractor and Leadership Failures at CMS and HHS Medicare Kidney Transplant Recipients Endure Unequal Treatment WASHINGTON , Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP), the largest and oldest kidney patient organization in the nation, issued an Official Statement (appears below) and an AAKP Closer Look report highlighting a new, double standard and unequal access for Medicare kidney transplant recipients who rely upon molecular blood tests for organ health surveillance and the identification of early organ rejection. Kidney disease and kidney failure disproportionately impact minority Americans. Federal data consistently demonstrates that, among historically disadvantaged communities, there are tremendous barriers and lack of opportunity to receive a kidney transplant and furthermore, re-transplantation when a donor organ fails. AAKP has a 50-year history of fighting for greater patient care choice, full access to care innovations, and disability rights. Since 2018, AAKP has conducted the largest national voter registration and mobilization initiative in the kidney space, titled KidneyVoters. The effort engages patients, organ transplant recipients, families and loved ones, allied medical professionals, researchers, and medical industry employees on critical issues impacting the kidney health and patient outcomes and mobilizes them to raise their voices to policymakers and hold elected leaders accountable. The AAKP Official Statement and Closer Look report focus on new policy changes and major access restrictions imposed on Medicare transplant recipients in March 2023 by Palmetto GBA, a Medicare Administrative Contractor headquartered in South Carolina ; the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS); and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The new restrictions severely limit Medicare patients and transplant professionals from accessing molecular blood tests, covered by Medicare and utilized since 2017. The tests detect early organ rejection, allow greater time for intervention, and help patients avoid risky, invasive tissue biopsies. AAKP and transplant experts have alerted Congress and the media that more than 28,000 fewer surveillance tests for Medicare kidney transplant recipients were obtained in the nine months following the new restrictions in coverage than in the nine months preceding the coverage restrictions. As Palmetto GBA, CMS, and HHS imposed new restrictions on Medicare kidney transplant recipients, BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina, the company that owns Palmetto GBA, continued full coverage for the same molecular blood surveillance tests for their paying beneficiaries with kidney transplants. AAKP believes this new double standard contradicts and undermines the stated commitments of President Biden and the Biden Administration to improve transparency, remove barriers, and improve health outcomes in organ transplantation, especially for people of color and historically underserved communities. AAKP believes all organ transplants should be highly valued and equally protected and that all transplant recipients, including those on Medicare, should have equal access to surveillance blood testing and timely interventions to save their donor organ when medically necessary. AAKP has called upon HHS and CMS leaders to immediately rescind the March 2023 policy changes made by Palmetto GBA and to restore prior coverage for molecular blood tests for Medicare kidney transplant recipients. Further, AAKP has also called for a halt to any ongoing efforts by Palmetto GBA and CMS to ratify the unnecessary and fact-free March 2023 decision into any new policy or Local Coverage Determination (LCD) that would continue to disrupt care access and coverage for Medicare transplant recipients and the transplant professionals who are committed to their long-term transplant outcomes. Palmetto GBA and top appointed leaders at CMS and HHS have drawn fierce backlash from kidney patients, transplant recipients, organ donors and donor families, transplant professional organizations, including the American Society of Transplant Surgeons (ASTS October letter and March letter) and the American Society of Transplantation (AST April letter), religious leaders, multiple broad-based community coalitions including the Health Equity in Transplantation Coalition (HEiTC), led by transplant recipient and recording artist Al B. Sure!, and national policy experts including former U.S. House Speaker Newt Gingrich , whose family has been impacted by organ failure and transplantation. A growing bipartisan coalition of U.S. Congressional leaders has called on HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra and CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure to explain the actions of Palmetto GBA and defend their own inaction in addressing the negative repercussions among impacted kidney transplant patients and transplant professionals. Leaders including Representative Steven Horsford , Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus (Congressional Black Caucus), Representative Michael Burgess , and Representative Anna Eshoo (Burgess-Eschoo letter), as well as Representative Larry Bucshon , Co-Chair of the Congressional Kidney Caucus and over a dozen other Congressional leaders have pushed HHS and CMS officials for transparency and any data that supported the March 2023 Palmetto GBA action. National media, including USA TODAY, Real Clear Politics, and the Wall Street Journal have paid close attention to the controversy and the voices of negatively impacted Medicare transplant recipients. The Wall Street Journal has published three editorials (read the September 10 editorial, September 22 editorial, and September 26 editorial) on the issue. OFFICIAL AAKP STATEMENT "In March 2023 , during the nation's annual National Kidney Month, kidney transplant recipients on Medicare were subjected to major new restrictions in their access to the critical molecular blood tests they have depended on since 2017 for organ health and surveillance for possible early rejection indicators. These tests are highly regarded by transplant recipients and the transplant professionals caring for them. They constitute a critical innovation able to detect early and often asymptomatic organ rejection before any previously available tests, thus providing an earlier diagnosis of organ injury and critical lead time for intervention. A normal test result is also important for patients because that can allow avoidance of unnecessary, invasive tissue biopsies and the attendant risks associated with these biopsies, including infection, excessive bleeding, organ damage, or even death. The new restrictions were initiated by Palmetto GBA, a federal Medicare Administrative Contractor paid with U.S. taxpayer funds and working under the auspices of the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The restrictions were announced on March 2, 2023 , in a published notice called a "Coverage Article," without prior public notice and without precedent because it directly contradicted existing CMS coverage policy by suddenly tying surveillance blood test access to invasive, risky, and expensive surgical biopsies. The tie to biopsies directly contradicted language in the 2021 Medicare announced policy, which specifically said Medicare coverage of surveillance blood tests was not tied to biopsies. Because of the new coverage restrictions, more than 28,000 fewer surveillance tests for Medicare kidney transplant recipients were obtained in the nine months following the coverage change in March 2023 than in the nine months preceding the coverage restriction by Palmetto GBA . These negative consequences were effectuated by a private company contractor without legal authority to do so and the failure of CMS and HHS officials to protect the long-term interests of Medicare patients. This negative Government Determinant of Health (GoDH) action has significantly and adversely impacted transplant patients, caused great anxiety and concern among innocent kidney patients and their families, and is contrary to the best interests of American taxpayers. Yet, for unclear reasons, in September 2023 , CMS not only publicly defended Palmetto GBA in a press statement, but it also parroted the contractor's erroneous claims that there were "no changes" in Medicare policy or patient access to the tests. The claims of "no changes" in the CMS press statement were directly contradicted by existing Medicare coverage for the blood testing, as stated in the 2021 official CMS coverage policy, which indicated no link to a biopsy was necessary to receive Medicare coverage of these molecular blood tests. CMS repeated similar inaccurate claims to a bipartisan coalition of concerned Congressional leaders who were demanding clear answers on behalf of impacted Medicare kidney transplant constituents. Once again, CMS never referred to the existing 2021 CMS policy that specifically stated there were no ties to biopsies needed in order to obtain Medicare coverage for these vital, non-invasive blood tests. CMS and Palmetto GBA have yet to provide any data to Congress or the public to adequately justify the original basis of their decision. HHS, CMS, and Palmetto GBA continue to ignore the basic principles of public transparency and accountability. The American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP), the largest kidney patient organization in the nation, believes statements made by CMS and Palmetto GBA have been repeatedly disingenuous, intentionally misleading, and shockingly callous toward kidney transplant recipients on Medicare, their families, and the courageous organ donors providing the gift of life. Meanwhile, the company that owns Palmetto GBABlueCross BlueShield of South Carolinacontinued to provide its own kidney transplant beneficiaries within South Carolina full access to these same molecular blood tests without ties to a biopsy. The onerous restrictions Palmetto GBA, CMS, and HHS imposed on Medicare kidney transplant recipients were not applied to private BlueCross BlueShield beneficiaries. It is absolutely clear this is a new double standard for Medicare transplant recipients. If you are a BlueCross BlueShield beneficiary, your insurance covers non-invasive blood tests to detect early organ transplant rejection. But if you are a Medicare transplant recipient, you must first demonstrate the need for an invasive and risky biopsy before potentially gaining access to the tests, defeating the purpose of surveillance testing and the benefits of early rejection detection and timely intervention. Today, Medicare patients with a kidney transplant in South Carolina and across the nation face the new reality of unequal treatment to protect their precious gifts of life . This is in addition to barriers that already exist, well known to CMS and HHS leaders, among historically disadvantaged communities in need of greater access to kidney transplantation and re-transplantation when transplanted organs fail. AAKP believes the March 2023 action of Palmetto GBA must be immediately rescinded and prior coverage for molecular blood tests for kidney transplant patients must be fully restored. Further, the ongoing effort by Palmetto GBA to ratify its unnecessary and fact-free March 2023 actions in new policy or a Local Coverage Determination (LCD) must be halted. The failure of HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra and CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure to listen to impacted transplant patients, show empathy and respect for their legitimate concerns, and respond to the oversight demands of Congress is inexplicable and unacceptable. They have ignored the distress and angst patients have communicated in multiple public meetings and before Congress and they have diminished the significance of bipartisan inquiries from leaders of both the Congressional Black Caucus and the Congressional Kidney Caucus. Their failed leadership has empowered unelected, unaccountable, and faceless for-profit contractors to make life and death decisions that negatively impact kidney transplant patients on Medicare. Worse, their unresponsiveness as the new double standard in kidney transplant health was developed on their watch has undermined the clearly stated and repeated commitments of President Biden to better serve all people suffering from kidney failure and in need of a life-saving transplant, including people of color and underserved communities. President Biden , like his predecessors, has been clear to the kidney community in his commitments to improve kidney health, remove barriers to transplantation, and improve transplant outcomes. The time is now for his team of HHS political appointees to follow his direction and execute his policy directives, lest they ring hollow. Until that occurs, AAKP will view forthcoming Biden Administration announcements on kidney health and kidney transplantation with serious reservations. Reducing the kidney transplant waiting list is a shared national goal, and a key part of that effort is to make certain all current kidney transplant recipients have an equal opportunity to maintain their transplanted organs, which requires fair and equal access to surveillance blood testing. Efforts to encourage greater kidney transplantation that fall short of the moral imperative and established standard of helping patients protect transplanted organs is a step backward for American health policy. AAKP will continue to educate all Medicare patients at the community, state, and national level on this issue, encourage them to register to vote, and to hold their elected leaders fully accountable." Since 1969, The American Association of Kidney Patients has been a patient-led organization driving policy discussions on kidney patient care choice and medical innovation. Over the past decade, AAKP patient advocates have helped advance lifetime transplant drug coverage for kidney transplant recipients (2020); the presidential Executive Order on Advancing American Kidney Health (2019); new job protections for living organ donors under the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) via the U.S. Department of Labor (2018); and Congressional legislation allowing HIV-positive organ transplants for HIV-positive patients (2013). Follow AAKP on social media at @kidneypatient on Facebook, @kidneypatients on X, and @kidneypatients on Instagram, and visit www.aakp.org for more information. MEDIA CONTACT: Jennifer Rate Director, Communications and Digital Operations [email protected] (813) 400-2394 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kidney-patients-target-medicare-transplant-double-standard-302058815.html SOURCE American Association of Kidney Patients WASHINGTON , Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- NASA Administrator Bill Nelson participated in a signing ceremony Friday with Greece's foreign minister, Giorgos Gerapetritis , as his country became the 35th country to sign the Artemis Accords. The accords establish a practical set of principles to guide space exploration cooperation among nations. Also participating in the event at the U.S. Department of State were NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy , U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken , and Dr. Ioannis Daglis , president of the Hellenic Space Center. The signing occurred during the fifth United States-Greece Strategic Dialogue in Washington . "Congratulations to Greece on becoming the 35th country to join the Artemis Accords family," said Nelson. "The U.S. and Greece are long-time partners and friends, and we are excited to expand this partnership in the cosmos. Together, we are shaping the future of cooperation in space for the Artemis Generation." The Artemis Accords were established in 2020 by the United States together with seven other original signatories. Since then, the Accords signatories have held focused discussions on how best to implement the Artemis Accords principles. "As humanity embarks on a great adventure, returning to the Moon and preparing for traveling beyond the Moon, the Artemis Accords serve as a beacon of collaboration and cooperation among nations, paving the way for a sustainable and peaceful exploration of space," said Gerapetritis. The Artemis Accords reinforce and implement key obligations in the 1967 Outer Space Treaty. They also strengthen the commitment by the United States and signatory nations to the Registration Convention, the Rescue and Return Agreement, as well as best practices NASA and its partners support, including the public release of scientific data. More countries are expected to sign the accords in the months and years ahead, which are advancing safe, peaceful, and prosperous activities in space. Learn more about the Artemis Accords at: https://www.nasa.gov/artemis-accords View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/nasa-welcomes-greece-as-newest-artemis-accords-signatory-302058859.html SOURCE NASA OHATCHEE, Ala. , Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- From all of the team at Otter Creek Farmstead & Distillery, we look forward to the upcoming episodes of "Farmer Wants A Wife" on FOX. Farmer Wants A Wife After hosting the premiere of Season 2, we wish Grammy-winning host Jennifer Nettles and her team the best of luck this second season as four new farmers leave Otter Creek in Ohatchee, Alabama and head back to their farms with a hopeful new cast of dates looking for love. Along with an amazing new cast of women, the new farmers Mitchell Kolinsky, Brandon Rogers , Nathan Smothers , and Ty Ferrell tour their potential first dates across the 1,100 acre Otter Creek Farm. They have big decisions to make with initial cuts in this season 2 opener from the Grand Room . "We hope Otter Creek left a positive first and lasting impact for the cast of women who have never before stepped foot on a farm," says owner, Frank Brown . We thank FOX tv, Reality Club FOX, Jennifer Nettles , and all of the production staff for choosing Otter Creek as your luxury lodge destination to host this premiere. We certainly enjoyed touring you around our property and showing the abundance of our outdoor paradise! See more of Otter Creek Farmstead & Distillery and discover the many avenues we host by visiting ottercreekfarmstead.com. Keep up with the latest at the farm by following us on Instagram & Facebook. Contact: [email protected] 256-892-2177 View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/otter-creek-farmstead-hosts-season-premiere-of-farmer-wants-a-wife-302058834.html SOURCE Otter Creek Farmstead CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand , Feb. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Aotearoa has reinforced its place in the global aerospace industry with the opening of the Tawhaki National Aerospace Centre and new sealed runway at Kaitorete, today. The new infrastructure coupled with technical support will super charge Aotearoa's fast-growing aerospace sector and help meet international demand. Domestic and international companies are already testing and trialling leading-edge technologies at Kaitorete, a short 50-minute drive from Otautahi Christchurch CBD and now more crafts and companies can take flight. US-based Wisk Aero recently conducted its world-first airspace integration test flights for an uncrewed aircraft from Kaitorete and Dawn Aerospace and Kea Aerospace will now be able to conduct horizontal space launches and stratospheric flights from the site. The new 1-kilometre runway and planned hangar facilities were funded by a $5.4 million grant from the New Zealand Government's Regional Strategic Partnership Fund, administered by Kanoa. This joins a sealed taxiway and fuel pad, grass runway, vertiport, office facilities and data connections. Tawhaki Board Member David Perenara-O 'Connell said mana whenua (indigenous people) of Kaitorete were proud to be at the forefront of supporting the country's aerospace sector and acknowledged their partnership with the New Zealand Government in the Tawhaki Joint Venture. "To fully enable the sector, supply chains and realise the economic benefits for all New Zealanders, takes a collaborative approach. We're grateful for the support of our government, local authorities, regulators, aerospace partners, research and science communities, and suppliers who share our vision of a world-leading hub for innovation and exploration. "We believe that this mission is truly unique. The way in which we weave together matauranga Maori (indigenous knowledge) with cutting-edge innovation in aerospace and environmental rejuvenation, marks a new era in sustainable land use." Aotearoa is one of the top countries for space launches and aerospace testing and trialling, with an advanced and responsive regulatory environment, sparse population and low air and sea traffic. Kaitorete offers clear skies and access to a wide range of orbits from an expansive, unpopulated, flat strip of land 25km long, nestled between Te Waihora ( Lake Ellesmere ) and the Pacific Ocean . Its proximity to world-class universities, international air and seaports and advanced manufacturing capabilities in nearby Otautahi Christchurch is globally unique. Tawhaki Chief Executive Linda Falwasser said the Joint Venture was taking a staged approach to its developments, with the potential to support vertical space launch in future. "We have one of the world's best locations for aerospace and space launch and we're prioritising critical infrastructure alongside rejuvenation of this special whenua (land). This includes exploring solar power and green hydrogen production and storage on site. "We have received strong global demand for a site that delivers technically while holding steadfastly to its values of protecting and preserving our people and planet." "Having this key infrastructure so accessible is hugely enabling for the whole sector," said Dawn Aerospace Co-Founder James Powell . "It will be transformative to the development of our rocket-powered aircraft, the Mk-II Aurora." Kea Aerospace CEO Mark Rocket said Tawhaki is enabling an exciting future for the region and the country. "Kaitorete is situated in an ideal location for aerospace research and development and offers Kea Aerospace unique opportunities for flight testing and operations of our solar-powered stratospheric aircraft." View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/twhaki-national-aerospace-centre-provides-mission-critical-boost-for-aerospace-sector-302058391.html SOURCE Tawhaki Elected Officials Join Forces with Teamsters for Good Jobs, Safe Streets LOS ANGELES , Feb. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Teamsters Union commends the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors for passing a landmark resolution in favor of Senate Bill 915 (SB 915), legislation that allows California's local governments to regulate autonomous vehicles (AVs). SB 915 has strong bipartisan support and is part of the CARS legislative package on autonomous vehicles that the Teamsters are advocating for in Sacramento to protect good jobs and public safety. "SB 915 is common sense legislation that would put safety first, and the Teamsters applaud the L.A. County Board of Supervisors for their unanimous support of this bill," said Chris Griswold , President of Teamsters Joint Council 42. "We'd especially like to thank Supervisors Lindsay Horvath and Janice Hahn for sponsoring this resolution. AVs have wreaked havoc on our streets for too long and with too little oversight. It's past time that local governments have a say in how this untested technology is deployed in their communities. The Teamsters urge all of California's elected leaders to prioritize public safety by supporting the passage of SB 915 into law." SB 915 was introduced on January 9, 2024 , by State Sen. Dave Cortese (D - San Jose ), shortly after the California Dept. of Motor Vehicles (DMV) approved Waymo's application to expand its fleet to the suburbs of Los Angeles and San Francisco . If approved by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), Waymo could operate 24/7 in any weather conditions and on any roads, including highways. Despite robotaxis running over pedestrians, blocking first responders from their jobs, reportedly coming within seconds of colliding with children, and causing traffic pileups, the CPUC and DMV have refused to implement significant AV safety measures. "SB 915 comes down to local control and leveling the playing field. Local cities and counties know their communities best. Municipalities are used to regulating traffic, zoning and construction. We know our streets well and we're able to work with our local public works departments and law enforcement partners to make our streets safe," said L.A. County Supervisor Kathryn Barger . "This is why cities and counties should have local authority to establish and enforce regulations on automated vehicle services." Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.3 million hardworking people in the U.S. , Canada , and Puerto Rico . Visit Teamster.org for more information. Follow us on Twitter @Teamsters and "like" us on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters. Contact: Sean Nesmith, (678) 467-4306 [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/teamsters-applaud-la-county-board-of-supervisors-for-passing-resolution-in-favor-of-av-local-control-bill-sb-915-302058170.html SOURCE International Brotherhood of Teamsters FRESNO, Calif. , Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- A new chapter begins in Fresno's history with the grand opening of The Arthur @ Blackstone, a transformative affordable housing development. This innovative project, located on the site once home to the beloved "Arthur's Toys" store and AJ's Tuxedo Shop, marks a significant milestone in addressing the housing needs of the community, especially young people transitioning from foster care. The Arthur @ Blackstone will offer a welcoming community with 1, 2, and 3- bedroom units for a total of 41 units in the City of Fresno . The property will provide an affordable and permanent housing community for residents, with half of the units reserved for transitional-aged youth. It is located in the Blackstone Corridor, known for its commercial vitality and cultural diversity. The corridor provides an ideal backdrop for the development and its proximity to transportation, shopping, and educational institutions positions the Arthur as a model for future developments. The Arthur @ Blackstone is a collaboration between Fresno Housing, CVS Health, Fresno County Department of Behavioral Health, Red Stone Equity Partners, City of Fresno , Chase, the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), the California Tax Credit Allocation Committee (CTCAC), and other key partners. This project not only preserves the legacy of a local landmark but also symbolizes a commitment to sustainable living and community support. "The Arthur @ Blackstone is more than just a housing complex; it's a beacon of hope and opportunity for Fresno residents. This project embodies our commitment to create sustainable, vibrant communities throughout Fresno County . It is also a demonstration of the value of partnerships that have made this project possible" - Tyrone Roderick Williams , CEO, Fresno Housing "Not only will The Arthur @ Blackstone help transition youth into stable housing, but this is a prime example of revitalizing a once vacant and blighted building into a place our residents can call home," added Fresno Mayor, Jerry Dyer . "This development is proof of what can be accomplished when we work together to meet the needs of our community. The Blackstone Corridor is key as we continue our work to improve the area and address housing needs in Fresno ." "It is especially meaningful to see the iconic Arthur's Toy Shop location be transformed into a space that will continue to serve young adults and families in the Fresno community," said Keli Savage , Head of Impact Investment Strategy at CVS Health. "Access to stable, high-quality, affordable housing enables people to take better care of their health and well-being while positioning them for success." "The Arthur @ Blackstone is a shining example of what affordable housing can and should be and it comes at a time of tremendous need," said James Vossoughi , Executive Director, Chase Community Development Banking. "We're committed to working with industry leaders like Fresno Housing who not only remain dedicated to closing the housing gap but provide residents with onsite supportive services, ensuring they have the resources needed to prosper." "The Fresno County Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) partnership with Fresno Housing, which produced The Arthur and other service-enriched housing sites in Fresno , is an example of excellent collaboration across sectors to assist our most vulnerable residents in Fresno to be well and thrive. Onsite wraparound behavioral health services that DBH provides at The Arthur are a key support for the wellbeing of our tenants." Susan Holt , Director, Fresno County Department Behavioral Health "The Arthur @ Blackstone is one of many housing projects the County of Fresno has prioritized and invested in, and will provide supportive services from our Behavioral Health Department to residents in twenty of these units, empowering them to thrive long-term." Nathan Magsig , Chairman of the Fresno County Board of Supervisors, District 5 About The Arthur @ Blackstone 41 Total Units: Offering a mix of modern living spaces, including 20 units for families and 20 for transitional youth ages 18-24. One unit is designated for an onsite property manager. Community Focus: Featuring a meeting area, multi-purpose room, fitness center, and community laundry room, all designed to foster a sense of community and wellbeing. Sustainability: Built to Green Building Standards with efficient HVAC and water heating systems. The Arthur @ Blackstone is not just a housing complex; it's a symbol of progress for Fresno , for what can be achieved when communities come together for a common cause. This grand opening marks the beginning of a new era for Fresno , where affordable housing and sustainable living go hand in hand. Fresno Housing works to create vibrant communities, build quality-affordable housing, and empower nearly 50,000 residents to achieve their goals. For more information, follow us on social media @fresnohousing, or visit www.fresnohousing.org. CONTACT: Kristine Morgan | (559) 417-0504 | [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-grand-opening-of-the-arthur--blackstone-an-affordable-housing-development-302058800.html SOURCE CVS Health; Fresno Housing ~ The Leela Palace New Delhi celebrates three years of artistic affiliation with India Art Fair , with a showcase of true Indian hospitality~ NEW DELHI , Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Leela Palace New Delhi partnered with the prestigious India Art Fair for its 15th edition as the official Hotel and VIP Lounge Hospitality Partner. The Leela Palace New Delhi has been associated with the India Art Fair, the biggest fair experience of modern and contemporary Indian art in the world for the last three years to celebrate diverse forms of art, from traditional Indian craftsmanship to contemporary masterpieces. The Leela Palace New Delhi, has long held partnerships with luminaries in the arts and this unique partnership with the India Art Fair, underscores The Leela's unwavering commitment to excellence in hospitality and the seamless integration of art, crafted into unique guest experiences. Held in New Delhi , the India Art Fair took place at the NSIC grounds in Okhla from February 1 to 4, 2024 . It was one of the largest exhibitions of modern and contemporary Indian art globally, with more than 70 trailblazing exhibitors present from all over India and a diverse array of art enthusiasts and collectors in attendance. The fair featured a diverse range of artistic expressions, including paintings, sculptures, prints, mixed-media pieces, and photography. The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts has been committed to promoting the rich and vibrant art legacy of India, through curated experiences for guests. By partnering with this esteemed event, The Leela Palace New Delhi engaged with global art enthusiasts, art collectors, and cultural connoisseurs, via guided art tours, special dining experiences and other special activations that highlight and pay homage to the city's evolving art sensibilities. Anupam Dasgupta , Area Vice President ( North India ) and General Manager at The Leela Palace New Delhi, stated, "Art is an integral part of our brand identity at The Leela and we take pride in celebrating India's art, luxury and culture. We believe in the transformative power of art to transcend boundaries, evoke emotions, and tell stories that resonate deeply with our guests. This partnership with the India Art Fair has allowed us to deepen our engagement with our country's vibrant cultural landscape. It is a platform where we not only showcased our commitment to excellence in hospitality but also contributed to the cultural dialogue by integrating art seamlessly into the specially curated guest experiences." The collaboration with the India Art Fair provided The Leela with a unique opportunity to highlight its dedication to both luxury and culture. The Leela Palace New Delhi is renowned for offering guests an immersive experience where art seamlessly blends with hospitality, creating an ambiance that is captivating and inspiring. Here, art is not only adorned on walls; but is woven into the fabric of the brand, enriching every aspect of the guest experience with beauty, meaning, and creativity, following the principle of Atithi Devo Bhava Guest is God. About The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts Headquartered in Mumbai , The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts is owned by a Brookfield Asset Management-sponsored private real estate fund and operates twelve award-winning properties in major cities and leisure destinations across India. These include the flagship hotel in the capital city of New Delhi , Bengaluru, Chennai , Udaipur, Jaipur , Gurugram, East Delhi , Mumbai , Gandhinagar and now Kovalam and Ashtamudi in Kerala . The Leela celebrates each hotel through its unique location, art, culture and cuisine with thoughtful services, celebratory rituals, and immersive experiences. The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts was voted the World's Best Hotel Brand twice in a row by Travel + Leisure, USA, World's Best Awards Survey, 2020 and 2021. In 2023, the brand has once again been featured in the top 3 World's Best Hotel Brands. An epitome of true Indian luxury hospitality, The Leela is committed to providing guests with unforgettable stays in settings that capture the essence of India. The brand has a marketing alliance with US-based Preferred Hotels & Resorts and is a member of the Global Hotel Alliance. For more information, please visit our website www.theleela.com and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Photo : https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2337871/The_Leela_Palace_New_Delhi.jpg Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1441809/The_Leela_Logo.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-leela-palace-new-delhi-elevates-the-art-of-hospitality-at-the-15th-edition-of-india-art-fair-302058490.html SOURCE The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts BOSTON , Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Startups Symphony Bio and FluxWorks are the newest recipients of the Technology in Space Prize, funded by Boeing and the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS), manager of the International Space Station (ISS) National Laboratory. Selected through the MassChallenge ( Boston ) startup accelerator program, these two companies will utilize the unparalleled research environment available through the ISS National Lab to further their research and technology development (R&D). Symphony Bio will use the orbiting laboratory to develop a new cancer treatment that harnesses the immune system to fight tumors and prevent them from spreading. FluxWorks aims to develop and commercialize noncontact magnetic gearboxes for use in extreme environments in a wide range of applications. "Boeing is excited to partner with CASIS to support the advancement of cutting-edge research using the unique environment of the orbiting laboratory. Enabling research that can help millions diagnosed with cancer and advancing mechanical innovations of noncontact magnetic gear technology will benefit human life in both the harsh environment of space and terrestrial environments," said Scott Copeland , director for ISS research integration at Boeing. "There are many smart people out there with great ideas who can leverage the space station to advance innovation, and these two companies serve as an inspiration to them all." Through the Technology in Space Prize, CASIS and Boeing awarded Symphony Bio and FluxWorks more than $630,000 in total. The startups join a growing community of researchers leveraging the final frontier to explore new possibilities and showcase the potential of space-based research. Since the prize's inception, approximately $20 million has been awarded for more than 30 projects, many of which have already launched to the space station. "We are tremendously proud of our partnership with the ISS National Lab and Boeing and are thrilled to play a role in helping high-potential startups take advantage of the opportunity to harden their solutions by conducting tests in a microgravity environment," said Will Magruder , vice president of partnerships for MassChallenge. "Thanks to this partnership, novel technologies continue to help improve life on Earth and beyond." Many of the startups awarded the Technology in Space Prize have gone on to secure additional funding from outside sources to further their research. For example, Connecticut -based LambdaVision leveraged microgravity to improve its manufacturing process for the production of artificial retinas in space and is in the midst of the company's ninth investigation on the orbiting laboratory. Biotechnology startup MicroQuin utilized the microgravity environment of the space station to identify essential pathways involved in the development of cancer. This allowed the company to refine its breast cancer therapeutic and begin to develop new therapeutics for targeted treatment of several cancer types. Startup RevBio (formerly LaunchPad Medical) used the orbiting laboratory to test an injectable bone glue to accelerate bone repair. "The MassChallenge U.S. Early Stage Accelerator program has been a fantastic avenue for Boeing and the ISS National Lab to reach companies capable of utilizing low Earth orbit to further their research endeavors," said ISS National Lab Chief Scientific Officer Michael Roberts . "Part of the role of the ISS National Lab is to enable access and opportunity for investigators to take their research to new heights. Along with Boeing, we look forward to working with FluxWorks and Symphony Bio as they become part of the growing space station research community." Funding awarded to the 2023 recipients (details below) will provide seed funding and assist with hardware costs for flight projects using ISS National Lab flight and crew time allocation. Symphony Bio Biopolymer Cancer Implant to Restore Immune Response This project seeks to test a new biopolymer implant, called SymphNode, designed to restore immune response for the treatment of solid tumors. Deaths from solid tumors, such as breast, lung, prostate, and colorectal cancers, vastly outnumber deaths from blood and bone marrow cancers like leukemia and lymphoma. There are significant challenges associated with the use of immune therapies in treating solid tumors, which can be exacerbated by environmental conditions and treatments like chemotherapy or radiation. This project aims to utilize microgravity as a novel model system of immunosuppression to investigate cellular and the molecular mechanisms of SymphNode. FluxWorks Experimental Evaluation of a Noncontact Magnetic Gear in Microgravity This project will leverage the space station to test and qualify the performance of a new noncontact magnetic gear. The magnetic gear will be tested in several scenarios to assess its startup behavior, dynamic operation, vibrational characteristics, and seal and bearing behavior in microgravity. Gearboxes aim to reduce the mass of motors required in a variety of applications; however, the lubricant needed to make them work properly is not designed for use in extreme environments like space. Magnetic gears do not require lubricant, making them an appealing alternative. This project aims to validate the technology's suitability for use in space applications. With support from Boeing and CASIS, these projects help underscore the critical role of space in advancing our understanding of science and improving life on Earth. To learn more about the ISS National Lab, including current solicitations seeking projects to leverage the orbiting platform, please visit our website. To learn more about applying for the Technology in Space Prize, view entry information on the MassChallenge webpage. To download a high-resolution photo for this release, click here. About the International Space Station (ISS) National Laboratory: The International Space Station (ISS) is a one-of-a-kind laboratory that enables research and technology development not possible on Earth. As a public service enterprise, the ISS National Laboratory allows researchers to leverage this multiuser facility to improve quality of life on Earth, mature space-based business models, advance science literacy in the future workforce, and expand a sustainable and scalable market in low Earth orbit. Through this orbiting national laboratory, research resources on the ISS are available to support non-NASA science, technology, and education initiatives from U.S. government agencies, academic institutions, and the private sector. The Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS) manages the ISS National Lab, under Cooperative Agreement with NASA, facilitating access to its permanent microgravity research environment, a powerful vantage point in low Earth orbit, and the extreme and varied conditions of space. To learn more about the ISS National Lab, visit our website. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, CASIS accepts corporate and individual donations to help advance science in space for the benefit of humanity. For more information, visit our donations page. International Space Station (ISS) National Laboratory Managed by the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space, Inc. (CASIS) 6905 N. Wickham Rd. , Suite 500, Melbourne, FL 32940 321.253.5101 www.ISSNationalLab.org View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/two-startups-selected-through-technology-in-space-prize-to-leverage-iss-national-lab-302058693.html SOURCE International Space Station National Lab FILE PHOTO: The Apple logo is seen hanging at the entrance to the Apple store on 5th Avenue in Manhattan, New York, U.S., October 16, 2019. REUTERS/Mike Segar/File Photo By Blake Brittain (Reuters) - Apple plans to settle a lawsuit that accused tech startup Rivos of stealing its trade secrets related to computer-chip technology, according to a joint court filing on Friday in California federal court. The companies told the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California that they had "signed an agreement that potentially settles the case," and that the agreement allows Apple to examine Rivos' systems and recover any confidential information. Representatives for Apple and Rivos did not immediately respond to requests for comment and more information about the settlement. Apple sued "stealth" startup Rivos in 2022. It said Mountain View, California-based Rivos had hired away dozens of its engineers and used its confidential information to develop competing "system-on-chip" (SoC) technology. SoCs are integrated circuits with several computer components in a single chip, including central processing units and graphic processing units. Apple said in the lawsuit that it spent billions of dollars and more than a decade of research on its SoC designs, and that they have "revolutionized the personal and mobile computing worlds." Rivos denied the allegations and claimed that Apple had "sought to punish Rivos and any Apple employees who may seek to work there since the moment Apple learned about the promising startup." It countersued Apple last September for unfair competition. Apple settled related claims in the case last month against six former employees who left the company to join Rivos. (Reporting by Blake Brittain in Washington; Editing by David Bario and Alistair Bell) (Reuters) - Applied Digital said on Friday revenue from its Ellendale data center hosting facility would take a hit in the current quarter by an ongoing power outage, sending its shares down more than 10% in extended trading. The facility began experiencing a power outage on Jan. 18, 2024, resulting in a complete outage by Jan. 19, the data center services provider said in a Securities and Exchange Commission filing. "This complete power outage is currently ongoing as our electricity provider is performing upgrades to ensure stability of our electrical supply," the company said. Revenue from this facility would be "materially impacted by this outage" for the quarter ending Feb. 29, the Dallas, Texas-based company said, adding it expects the facility to be online again during this month. Last month, Applied Digital had lowered its full-year expectations, blaming a tight supply of sought-after networking components made by chipmaker Nvidia. (Reporting by Jaspreet Singh in Bengaluru; Editing by Shilpi Majumdar) Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - February 9, 2024) - Pasofino Gold Limited (TSXV: VEIN) (OTCQB: EFRGF) (FSE: N07A) ("Pasofino" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has closed its non-brokered private placement (announced January 22, 2024) of 6,291,000 units ("Units") at C$0.50 (or US$0.37) per Unit for gross proceeds of approximately C$3.1 million (US$2.3 million) (the "Offering"). Each Unit consisted of one common share of the Company (each, a "Unit Share") and one half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles 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. A total of 6,291,000 common shares and 3,145,500 Warrants were issued pursuant to the financing. All securities issued are subject to a 4 month hold period expiring June 9, 2024. There was no finder's fee paid in connection with the financing. The net proceeds of the Offering will be used by the Company in connection with advancement of the Dugbe Gold Project (the "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. All 6,291,000 Units in the Offering were subscribed by insiders. Hummingbird Resources plc (AIM: HUM) ("HB PLC"), a shareholder (51%) and control person of the Company, subscribed for 5,400,000 Units and Esan Eczacibasi Endustriyel Hammaddeler Sanayi ve Ticaret Anonim Sirketi ("ESAN"), a shareholder (10%) and insider of the Company, subscribed for 891,000 Units. Story continues 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 Unit Shares and Warrant Shares have been conditionally accepted by the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSX-V") and is subject to the final acceptance of the TSX-V. See the Company's press releases dated January 22, 2024 for additional details regarding the Offering. 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. 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. Related Party Transaction Each of HB PLC and ESAN are insiders of Pasofino and have participated in the 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-V, 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. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/197375 Traders work on the trading floor of Barclays Bank at Canary Wharf in London, Britain December 7, 2018. REUTERS/Simon Dawson/File Photo By Sinead Cruise and Lawrence White LONDON (Reuters) -Barclays' CEO C.S. Venkatakrishnan is under pressure to deliver a plan this month to win over restless shareholders clamouring for a streamlined business model and higher, more sustainable returns for a fraction of the risk. The British bank has one of the lowest valuations among peers, with shares down by around 24% in the last year, driven in part by a hefty disposal of stock by a top investor, Qatar Holding, on Dec. 4. It has also underperformed UK and eurozone banking indexes, data shows. Eight shareholders who spoke to Reuters -- including four among the top 20 -- favour shrinking its investment bank, offloading stakes in sub-scale businesses or exiting non-core assets entirely, and putting billions back into their pockets. Barclays' CEO, known as Venkat, has been listening. Speaking at the World Economic Forum at Davos last month, he acknowledged the outsized contribution Barclays' investment bank had made to group profits, and pledged to restore balance and clarity on the make-up of the bank. In a bid to bolster its British retail bank, Barclays said on Friday it had agreed to buy supermarket Tesco's banking operations. But with the global economy in flux, buyers of businesses Barclays aims to sell appear to be running shy. The bank's struggle to secure backers for its UK payment business, reported by Reuters on Feb 1, risks complicating Venkat's aims and shareholder hopes of a swift turnaround. Barclays, one of Britain's oldest banking brands, lacks focus, according to fund managers who say they are underwhelmed by its risk-adjusted returns. "The basic problem is this bank isn't boring enough for the majority of its investors," said Sajeer Ahmed, portfolio manager at Aegon Asset Management, which manages Barclays shares. "It is an investment bank with a retail bank attached. Management has tried to spell out the benefits of diversification but this just isn't supporting the bottom line right now," he said. Many banks streamlined their riskiest activities after the 2008-9 financial crisis, but Barclays set its sights on growing a top-tier transatlantic investment bank from the embers of Lehman Brothers. The regulation which followed the crisis has made making money from investment banking much tougher, pushing investors to question whether it is time to scale back those ambitions. Barclays declined to comment. The bank, which drafted in Boston Consulting Group to help with its revival plan, is due to present it on Feb. 20. HIGH RISKS, UNEVEN RETURNS The investment bank has long been central to Barclays' universal banking business model, which also spans consumer and corporate lending. But six shareholders said the group's depressed valuation reflected the investment bank's high costs and unpredictable returns. In nine months through September, Barclays' Corporate & Investment Bank reported quarterly income ranging between 4 billion and 3.1 billion pounds, with quarterly costs of around 2 billion. Returns on tangible equity (ROTE), a key profitability measure, ranged between 15.2% and 9.2% across these quarters. The division consumes 63% of group capital reserves, and delivers returns below industry peers, UBS analyst Jason Napier said in a Jan. 11 note. By contrast, BNP Paribas commits less than a third of group capital to its investment bank, while UBS has said it will allocate no more than 25% of risk-weighted assets to its investment banking operations. Investment banking as an industry also tends to be accident-prone. In 2022, a U.S. securities sales blunder saw the bank's litigation and conduct costs that year surge to 1.6 billion pounds from 400 million pounds the year before. "Execution is key," said Benjamin Toms, analyst at RBC. "This means no mishaps and a conduct and litigation expense that is closer to 100 million pounds rather than a billion." INVESTORS LOSE FAITH Barclays' forward price to book ratio, a measure of its market valuation relative to assets, is at 0.34 -- compared with 0.34 for Deutsche Bank, 0.56 at BNP Paribas, 0.82 at HSBC and 0.95 at UBS, based on LSEG data on Feb. 8. Investors said this reflects doubts about Barclays' mix of businesses, and a growing consensus that a leaner, simpler bank could deliver stronger returns. Barclays has sub-scale businesses which could fetch respectable price-tags if they were sold, five of the investors said, pointing out that several of these units were unlikely to be more than number three or four in their respective markets. Disposals from Barclays' Consumer, Cards & Payments (CCP) unit would be welcomed, four of the shareholders said, with one suggesting the international credit cards business applied a "complexity discount" to the bank's overall valuation. Reuters earlier reported the bank's wider study of its global payments activities. Capital unlocked by asset sales could support a more generous dividend or buyback programme or be reinvested in fee-earning businesses like wealth management, three investors said. "In my opinion the only way the shares re-rate is a meaningful reduction in the size of the corporate and investment bank, and re-focus of the business on forecastable franchise based revenue streams," said Ed Firth, analyst at KBW. Jefferies analysts expect Barclays to propose a sharp rise in capital redistribution, rising to around 7 billion pounds by end-2025, to help boost flagging shares. There are signs short-sellers are retreating ahead of any potential move. Barclays has not featured in the top 10 of EMEA's most heavily shorted large-cap banks since October, research from data firm Hazeltree showed. Investors who spoke to Reuters expect the bank to upgrade its annual 10% ROTE target to between 11% and 13%. In 2023, U.S. bank JP Morgan achieved 21%. "I think people are struggling to believe that higher returns are deliverable and sustainable," said Ben Ritchie, head of developed market equities at Abrdn. "But once companies get the credit for consistent delivery, it is a game-changer," he said. ($1 = 0.7920 pounds) (Editing by Jane Merriman) By Ana Mano SAO PAULO (Reuters) - Brazilian federal prosecutors are asking a judge to unwind a 2017 deal handing control of pulp and paper company Eldorado from Brazilian firm J&F to Paper Excellence Group, citing restrictions on foreign land ownership. The prosecutors mentioned "sovereignty" and "national security" concerns as grounds to block the $3 billion transaction, according to a court filing signed on Monday and seen by Reuters. The move adds another twist to one of Brazil's biggest ongoing corporate litigation sagas, while raising questions about foreign investment in land-intensive economic sectors. In 2017, J&F Investimentos agreed to sell Eldorado Brasil Celulose to a unit of Paper Excellence at an enterprise value of 15 billion reais ($3.0 billion). But seller and buyer soon after accused each other of breaching the terms of the deal, which was not fully implemented. Brazil imposed limitations on foreign land ownership in the early 1970s, but spotty public records have left uncertainty about how consistently those restrictions are enforced. Paper Excellence, which has grown through acquisitions, first in Canada, then later Europe, Latin America and the United States, is owned by Indonesian billionaire Jackson Widjaja. In December, Brazil's rural land agency Incra issued a recommendation saying the deal would effectively give Paper Excellence control of 14,486 hectares of rural land owned by Eldorado. In a statement, Paper Excellence said it acquired a pulp mill and "has no interest in buying ... rural land in Brazil or in any other country where it operates." Eldorado, which also leases land, processes eucalyptus trees planted on 249,000 hectares, according to its website. Incra said Paper Excellence's Brazilian unit was "equivalent to a foreign company" and therefore obliged to seek congressional approval via the agency before closing the takeover. On Jan. 2, Eldorado advised shareholders to take the necessary measures to implement Incra's directive, including potentially "cancelling the acquisition." Eldorado did not immediately comment on the prosecutors' motion. Paper Excellence said Incra's opinion was not legally binding, and a judge has not ruled on the prosecutors' motion. Incra will analyze an appeal from Paper Excellence on Feb. 15. J&F said it is ready to comply with Incra's recommendation by returning 3.77 billion reais to Paper Excellence in exchange for a 49.41% stake in Eldorado. The Brazilian senate has approved a bill which would relax restrictions on foreign land ownership, but its chances in the lower house are uncertain. Senator Iraja Abreu, who authored the bill, told Reuters that current rules constrain billions of dollars of investments. He said the Eldorado dispute was an example of how restrictions on foreigners can hold back major investments. "We cannot be prejudiced against foreign investments," he said. "If foreigners are willing to respect our sovereignty and laws, why can't they be welcome in the rural sector?" Nearly 6.5 million hectares (16 million acres) of Brazilian farmland are owned by foreign nationals or companies, according to data from the Agrarian Reform Ministry. ($1 = 4.9602 reais) (Reporting by Ana Mano; Editing by Brad Haynes and David Ljunggren) Displaced Palestinians, who fled their houses due to Israeli strikes, walk as they seek shelter at the border with Egypt, in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip, January 7, 2024. REUTERS/Ibraheem Abu Mustafa By Ahmed Mohamed Hassan and Aidan Lewis CAIRO (Reuters) - Egypt has sent about 40 tanks and armoured personnel carriers to northeastern Sinai within the past two weeks as part of a series of measures to bolster security on its border with Gaza, two Egyptian security sources said. The deployment took place ahead of the expansion of Israeli military operations around Gaza's southern city of Rafah, where much of its population has sought safety, sharpening Egyptian fears that Palestinians could be forced en masse out of the enclave. Israeli warplanes struck Rafah, which adjoins the border, on Friday and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the military to prepare to evacuate the displaced people. Since the war between Israel and Hamas erupted on Oct. 7, Egypt constructed a concrete border wall that reaches six metres into the ground and is topped with barbed wire. It has also built berms and enhanced surveillance at border posts, the security sources said. Last month Egypt's state information service detailed some of the measures it had taken on its border in response to Israeli suggestions that Hamas had obtained weapons smuggled from Egypt. Three lines of barriers made any overground or underground smuggling impossible, it said. Images shared with Reuters by the Sinai Foundation for Human Rights, an independent group, appear to show the installation of the wall in December, with several berms running behind it. Later pictures, which the group said were taken in early February, appear to show three vertical layers of coiled barbed wire being installed on top of the wall. Reuters was not able to independently verify the images. Satellite images from January and December also show some new constructions along the 13 km (8 mile) border close to Rafah and the extension of a wall to the sea's edge at its northern end. Egyptian and Israeli authorities did not respond to requests for comment. The new measures come after an expansion of security in northern Sinai as Egypt's military consolidated its grip against an Islamist insurgency that escalated a decade ago. Well before the current war in Gaza broke out, Egypt said it had destroyed tunnels through which smuggling to Gaza had previously flourished, and had cleared a buffer zone close to the border. On the approach to the Rafah Crossing with Gaza, the remains of razed houses can been seen along with miles of concrete walls that have been built parallel to the sea and near roads close to the border. TIES UNDER STRAIN Egypt and Israel have been at peace for more than four decades and in recent years have extended ties through Israeli exports of natural gas and security coordination around their shared border and the Gaza Strip. The two countries have maintained a blockade on Gaza, strictly limiting the movement of people and goods across its borders, after Hamas took control there in 2007. But the relationship has come under strain because of Israel's current military operation in Gaza, unleashed in retaliation for an Oct. 7 attack on Israel by Hamas. Egypt has repeatedly raised the alarm over the possibility that Israel's offensive could displace desperate Gazans into Sinai, while bristling over suggestions from Israel that it would retake full control of the Gaza-Egypt border corridor in order to ensure the Palestinian territory's demilitarisation. In January, Egypt announced two operations to tackle drug smuggling in northeastern Sinai in an apparent effort to demonstrate its control of the area. An Israeli official told Reuters that restructuring of security on the border, where he said a small number of tunnels remained, was under regular discussion by the two countries. Israel would try to organise for the movement of displaced Palestinians northwards within Gaza ahead of any military operation there, the official said. Egyptian security sources have played down any discussions and said they are prioritising efforts to reach a ceasefire in Gaza. The state information service called accusations of smuggling "lies" intended to give cover to Israel's objective of occupying the border buffer zone, known as the Philadelphi Corridor. Egypt has also blamed Israel for limiting deliveries of aid into Gaza, where the risk of famine is growing and aid workers have warned of disease spreading. Israel has denied holding up or rejecting humanitarian supplies. Egypt has framed its opposition to the displacement of Palestinians from Gaza as part of wider Arab rejection of any repeat of what Palestinians mourn as the "Nakba", or "catastrophe", when some 700,000 fled or were forced from their homes in the war surrounding Israel's creation in 1948. Diplomats and analysts say Egypt is also concerned about infiltration by Hamas and hosting a large refugee population. In October, President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi warned that displacement could turn Sinai into a base for attacks against Israel. (Reporting by Ahmed Mohamed Hassan, Aidan Lewis and Dan Williams; Additional reporting by Henriette Chacar, Editing by Angus MacSwan) SAN SALVADOR (Reuters) - A former national security adviser to El Salvador's government, who had accused a congressman from the ruling New Ideas party of corruption and drug trafficking, died in state custody in unclear circumstances, his family told reporters on Thursday. Alejandro Muyshondt was arrested last August for alleged crimes that President Nayib Bukele listed on X, including leaking documents to journalists and former leftist President Mauricio Funes, who is now based in Nicaragua. Muyshondt's family said the prosecutor's office told them he died in a state hospital on Wednesday, where he was sent after suffering a stroke. A preliminary report found he died of pulmonary edema, a build-up of fluid in the lungs, according to documents published by local media. Neither the prosecutor's office nor the Salvadoran government immediately responded to requests for comment. According to the Mayo Clinic, heart problems mostly cause pulmonary edema, but pneumonia, contact with certain toxins, medications, and trauma to the chest wall can also cause it. In a post on X shortly after Muyshondt's 2023 arrest, Bukele said there was evidence he helped Funes evade capture. Prosecutors accused Funes of tax evasion and illicit association and failure to perform duties over the gang truce negotiated in 2012. Funes denies negotiating with the gangs. Bukele said Muyshondt had leaked evidence against New Ideas Congressman Erick Garcia to avoid a looming investigation. Garcia was fired from Congress last August and is facing a trial at a yet unknown date for allegedly altering official documents. Garcia, who Muyshondt accused of corruption and links to drug trafficking, could not immediately be reached for comment. Muyshondt was the cousin of Ernesto Muyshondt, a former mayor of San Salvador, the capital, who is now in a psychiatric hospital and himself facing legal proceedings over alleged electoral fraud, breach of duty and gang connections. Muyshondt's death comes days after the landslide reelection of Bukele, who won fierce popularity for a crackdown on gangs that shelved civil liberties and saw over 76,000 Salvadorans arrested en mass without due process. Rights groups have raised concerns over hundreds of deaths and torture in custody. Of 218 reported deaths in the two years since the gang crackdown began, 36 have been attributed to pulmonary edema, rights group Cristosal told Reuters. The U.S. government has accused Bukele's government of making a pact with El Salvador's gangs. The Salvadoran prosecutor who first led the investigation confirmed the findings to Reuters. In December 2021, Bukele disclosed WhatsApp messages in which the then-United States charge d'affaires in the country, Jean Manes, interceded for the release of Ernesto Muyshondt. (Reporting by Nelson Renteria and Sarah Kinosian; Writing by Sarah Morland; Editing by Leslie Adler) A sign of Citgo Petroleum is seen at its headquarters in Houston, Texas, U.S., January 11, 2024. REUTERS/Go Nakamura By Marianna Parraga and Gary McWilliams HOUSTON (Reuters) - A U.S. court auction weighing the fate of Venezuela-owned oil refiner Citgo Petroleum has received bids using claims in lieu of cash, according to people familiar with the process and documents, part of a historic case to settle Venezuelan debts. Oil producer ConocoPhillips, the largest creditor in the case after presenting the court with some $12 billion from asset expropriations in Venezuela, last month submitted a credit bid using its claims, the people said. A spokesperson declined to comment. Other bidders also have tried to apply their claims against Venezuela in bids, a Delaware court officer overseeing the auction has said, which could leave less cash to be distributed among the remaining creditors. The court has not disclosed details from a bidding round that received offers until Jan. 22. Credit bids raise the prospect of insufficient cash to settle a total of $21 billion in claims accepted by the court, inflaming some creditors sensing they could be left out of a payout. The claims stem from Venezuela's expropriations and debt defaults since it nationalized energy and mining companies more than a decade ago. Citgo became enmeshed in the case when the court in an extraordinary ruling found its parent PDV Holding liable for the South American nation's debts. Conoco exited oil refining 12 years ago when it spun off Phillips 66. It was unclear whether the credit bid was placed with another company or intended to secure Citgo assets that could be broken off. In addition to Conoco, energy companies Chevron, Reliance Industries, Koch Industries and Valero Energy, and at least one activist investor have expressed interest in the sales process, the people said. Dozens of bidders began due diligence, seeking information for the non-binding first round, the people said. Conoco, Koch Industries and a board supervising Citgo declined to comment. Chevron, Reliance and Valero did not reply to requests for comment. WHAT'S CITGO WORTH? Credit bids raise new complications in an already drawn-out court case that broke new legal ground in disputes against foreign countries. Another factor is the uncertainty of Citgo's fair value, four investment bankers close to the auction said. The oil refiner has been highly profitable, but people close to the bidding said the parent's shares could ultimately fetch about half of a market value close to $12 billion due to risks of future lawsuits from creditors or Venezuela, other refineries on the market, and the need for U.S. approvals. Citgo's earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, or EBIDTA, could fall to about $2.5 billion this year based on expected margins, affecting valuations, two of the sources said. The Houston-based company operates an 807,000-barrel-per-day oil refining network spread from Illinois to Texas, owns interests in pipelines and terminals, and supplies fuel to 4,200 independent gasoline outlets in the U.S. Investment banker Evercore Group is overseeing the auction's marketing and data collection, which has drawn early interest from dozens of companies and individuals in the first phase. A second bidding round was tentatively scheduled for May. Evercore did not reply to a request for comment. For the court to side with a credit bid, it would likely require the auction winner to use its control of Citgo to pay other creditors over time, one person close to the matter said. "The restructuring will have to be in the hands of Conoco if it wins with a credit bid," the person added. CREDIT AND CASH Conoco has three claims in the top 15 of a list of creditors that U.S. Judge Leonard Stark has used to establish a "first-in-time" priority order. Conoco has said it aims to cash about $10 billion from the three awards after deducting what it received previously. Stark has ruled that credit bids must include "a cash component or other funding mechanism" to pay liens against the Citgo parent's shares. Three Venezuela creditors and the court officer overseeing the process, Robert Pincus, last week said in separate filings that the use of multibillion-dollar claims as part of bids threatens the court's schedule. Pincus said accepting proposals by some creditors to change their status could complicate his efforts to evaluate the credit bids against others. The creditors list also includes miner Crystallex, which first introduced the case in Delaware, groups of bondholders and companies such as O-I Glass and Siemens Energy. More creditors are trying to join the case. "Will the court have the courage to accepts a bid that only pays off a handful of creditors? That's the issue," one of the sources said. (Reporting by Marianna Parraga and Gary McWilliams; Additional reporting by Ron Bousso and Sabrina Valle; Editing by Jonathan Oatis) Men ride a motorbike inside the premises of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) in Aligarh district of the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, India, February 5, 2024. REUTERS/Anushree Fadnavis/File Photo By Krishna N. Das and Saurabh Sharma ALIGARH, India (Reuters) - A Hindu group closely linked to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is installing Muslims loyal to it in leadership positions at Muslim universities as part of a push to garner Muslim votes ahead of national elections, officials said. The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), which Modi joined in his youth and which is the de facto parent of his political party, is trying to woo Muslim voters away from Congress and other parties that they have traditionally supported. Modi's Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which won about 9% of the Muslim vote in the past two general elections, is targeting up to 17% in the elections due by May. Opinion polls suggest the BJP, which has no Muslim members in parliament, will easily win a rare third straight term. "It is for certain that the BJP will win a much bigger percentage of Muslim votes than the last time," said senior RSS leader Indresh Kumar, chief patron of the group's Muslim wing, which says it is trying to win over the poor majority of India's 200 million Muslims. The Hindu-first RSS and India's biggest religious minority have been at loggerheads for decades. Muslims and rights groups allege some BJP members and affiliates have promoted anti-Islamic hate speech and vigilantism, and demolished Muslim-owned properties, while Modi denies religious discrimination exists in India. The RSS campaign to put Muslim allies in top university roles, which has not previously been reported, marks a new approach of working from within the community, officials told Reuters. Despite its strongly Hindu identity, the RSS also has divisions working with Christians, Sikhs and other minority groups. Membership in the RSS's Muslim Rashtriya Manch, formed in 2002 for dialogue between Muslims and the RSS, has jumped to 1 million from 10,000 before Modi took office a decade ago, said spokesperson Shahid Sayeed. FLYING THE FLAG India has more than a dozen universities catering to Muslims, established to boost a community that lags Hindus educationally, economically and socially. The government has long seen some universities, especially in Muslim-majority Kashmir, where India has fought an insurgency for decades, as hotbeds of Islamic activism and even sanctuaries for people hostile to India's interests. But now the RSS's Kumar recommends 99% of the vice-chancellors, or heads, of Muslim universities, and the government largely accepts his recommendations, Sayeed said. In the past, these schools were "anti-India", disrespecting the Indian flag and not celebrating events such as Independence Day and Republic Day, but that is changing, Kumar told Reuters. "The network among teachers is building very well, students are coming on board," he said. "Along with studies, a sense of love for the nation in these universities is building up." The RSS Muslim wing, he said, seeks to create a "well-organised system to reach out to the youth and the teachers" in Muslim-majority universities such as Aligarh Muslim University, the University of Kashmir, Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti Language University, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Hamdard and Maulana Azad National Urdu University. The vice-chancellor of the University of Kashmir raised the Indian flag on Independence Day on Aug. 15, after which the national anthem was sung, a video uploaded by the university shows. That was not always the case in the past, said a senior professor. "Playing the national anthem is mandatory for every function now," said the professor, who asked not to be named because of the sensitivity of the issue. "It is also ensured that all the students and staff stand up as a mark of respect." The universities did not respond to requests for comment. 'OBEISANCE TO MODIJI' At Aligarh Muslim University, India's biggest Muslim university with nearly 25,000 students, the vice-chancellor from 2017 to 2023 was Tariq Mansoor, who resigned in April last year to become a BJP state lawmaker and was named a party national vice president three months later. Increasing numbers of faculty close to the BJP or the RSS have joined the university in recent years, said Syed Ali Nadeem Rezavi, a professor of mediaeval Indian history. "My vice-chancellor knows that he can continue as a vice-chancellor only if he pays obeisance to Modiji," said Rezavi, using an honorific for Modi. Mansoor declined to comment. Modi's office and the Ministry of Education did not respond to requests for comment. BJP spokesperson Shazia Ilmi said there was nothing unusual in the government choosing its own nominees to head institutions. "Every government does that," she said. "Also, nationalism is a good thing and Muslims are happy with nationalism." But Roop Rekha Verma, a former vice-chancellor of the University of Lucknow, said: "If ideology is given priority over qualifications and lots of people are placed through the back door holding the same ideology, then it is very damaging to the intellectual atmosphere." Congress, which governed India for most of its post-independence history, believes everyone has a right to seek votes from different groups but it is wrong to impose any ideology, said spokesperson Pawan Khera. "There should be a good mix of all good ideologies in educational institutions," Khera said. "Why are you imposing one ideology on education institutes?" (Reporting by Krishna N. Das and Saurabh Sharma; Additional reporting by Fayaz Bukhari in Srinagar; Editing by William Mallard) Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich stands inside an enclosure for defendants before a court hearing to consider an appeal against his pre-trial detention on espionage charges in Moscow, Russia, October 10, 2023. REUTERS/Evgenia Novozhenina/File BERLIN (Reuters) - The man Russian President Vladimir Putin wants in exchange for releasing American journalist Evan Gershkovich is Vadim Krasikov, serving a life sentence for murdering an exiled Chechen-Georgian dissident in a Berlin park in broad daylight. Here are some facts about Krasikov, sentenced in 2021. WHO IS HE? Krasikov was born in what is now Kazakhstan, then part of the Soviet Union, in 1965. Open source investigators Bellingcat believe he later worked for Russia's FSB state security service. WHAT WAS HE CONVICTED OF? A German judge accused Russia of state terrorism over the murder in Berlin's Tiergarten of Zelimkhan Khangoshvili, an ethnic Chechen of Georgian citizenship who commanded a militia in Chechnya's failed war seeking independence from Russia in the 2000s. HOW WAS PUTIN INVOLVED? The judge said the order to kill Khangoshvili, who was no longer active in the Chechen independence movement, must have come from Putin, noting that Russian law gave him power to authorise operations to kill people the state regards as "terrorists", even abroad. Russia contests the judge's interpretation. IS HE WHO HE SAYS HE IS? Krasikov, his lawyers, and until now the Russian state have contested his guilt and even identity, saying he is not the Russian state hitman prosecutors allege but Vadim Sokolov, a Russian tourist visiting Berlin on a sunny August day. HOW WAS HIS IDENTITY CONFIRMED? Intelligence shared by Ukraine provided the breakthrough: a similar-looking man with identical tattoos had earlier been photographed attending a wedding in eastern Ukraine. That man was Krasikov. DOES RUSSIA NO LONGER CONTEST HIS GUILT? While Putin did not mention Krasikov's name, it was clear from his description of an individual "who due to patriotic sentiments eliminated a bandit in one of the European capitals", that he believed a killing had been carried out. HOW WAS THE KILLING DONE? Krasikov cycled up behind Khangoshvili on Aug. 23, 2019 and shot him three times. He was caught moments later after passers-by spotted him trying to change his clothes and dump his bicycle in a pond and alerted police. Travelling as a tourist, he had entered Germany via Paris the day before. WHAT DOES GERMANY SAY? Germany has always declined comment on reports that Russia might be seeking to swap Krasikov for Gershkovich. The swap would be unusual since it would entail Germany giving up a person convicted of murder on its own territory in order to recover a U.S. citizen. WHO ELSE COULD BE SWAPPED? Other reports have suggested Germany might seek to secure the release of Russian dissident Alexei Navalny, a cause celebre for many in Germany's political class, in exchange for Krasikov. The U.S. is also attempting to secure the release of former U.S. marine Paul Whelan, serving a 16-year-sentence on espionage charges. (Reporting by Thomas Escritt; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne) Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who was arrested in March 2023 in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg on charges of espionage, stands inside an enclosure for defendants during a court hearing in Moscow, Russia, January 26, 2024. Moscow City Cou By Rene Wagner and Thomas Escritt BERLIN (Reuters) - Germany declined to be drawn on Friday on whether talks were underway on swapping a Russian state hitman serving a life sentence in a German prison for detained U.S. journalist Evan Gershkovich, an idea floated by Russian President Vladimir Putin. A German government spokesperson twice declined to answer questions on the proposals, which have repeatedly surfaced in media since Wall Street Journal reporter Gershkovich was first detained last March. "I can't say anything on that," deputy government spokeswoman Christiane Hoffmann said when asked if Russia was seeking such an exchange. "I don't want to address this concrete case, please," she added when asked if Germany was in touch with the United States on the matter. People in the entourage of Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who is visiting Washington for talks with President Joe Biden, also declined to comment. Gershkovich is in detention in Russia on what his newspaper and the U.S. government say are cooked up charges of spying. The man Putin wants released, Vadim Krasikov, is serving a life sentence for the 2019 murder in a Berlin park of an ethnic Chechen from Georgia who had abandoned the armed struggle against Moscow for Chechen independence. While Putin did not name Krasikov, his reference to an individual "who due to patriotic sentiments eliminated a bandit in one of the European capitals" corresponded closely to the known details of the Berlin murder. An exchange would be legally possible but very sensitive, not just because it would require Germany to surrender its own convict to secure the release of another country's citizen, but also because of the gravity of Krasikov's crime. "We are talking about a case where not only was a murder carried out but the crime was also adjudged to have been of especial gravity," said judge and legal scholar Kai Cornelius of Hamburg University. "That's the most serious verdict that can be handed down under German law." Krasikov could be released if prosecutors said they no longer wished to see his sentence enforced. (Additional reporting by Andreas Rinke in Washington, writing by Thomas Escritt, editing by Rachel More and Angus MacSwan) By M. Sriram and Aditi Shah NEW DELHI (Reuters) -Hyundai Motor has appointed investment bankers JPMorgan and Citi to advise on its at least $3 billion India IPO, accelerating listing plans in the world's third-largest auto market, sources with direct knowledge said. The company plans to file regulatory papers in India by May to June for an approval, said two of the three sources, all of whom declined to be named as the talks are private. JPMorgan, Citi and Hyundai's Indian unit declined to comment. In a statement, Hyundai said it had "no further update at this stage", referring Reuters to its statement earlier this week that the India listing has not been decided, and that it would comment on the matter when the plan becomes finalised or within a month. Hyundai, the second-biggest automaker in India with a 15% market share, is in the initial stages of considering an IPO in India that would value its local operation at up to $30 billion, Reuters reported this week. The IPO could be India's largest. Such a fundraising by Hyundai would put the valuation of its Indian operation at more than half its market capitalisation of around $47 billion in Seoul. Some domestic Indian investment banks are also likely to be appointed for the IPO in coming months, the two sources added. IPOs in India boomed in the second half of 2023, and bankers expect this to continue in 2024 amid hopes for political stability after upcoming elections. Hyundai is doubling down in the South Asian nation and the U.S. after scaling back its production in China after years of losses there, and selling its two Russian plants. It entered India more than two decades ago and is the only foreign player to have become dominant, alongside market leader Maruti Suzuki. Companies like Ford Motor and General Motors have folded their India businesses. (Reporting by M. Sriram and Aditi Shah; Editing by Aditya Kalra and Jan Harvey) JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israel's military said it had intercepted a "suspicious aerial target" on Friday off the northern port city of Haifa amid high tension along its frontier with Lebanon. The seaports of Haifa and Ashdod are crucial gateways for Israel's trade. An Israeli military spokesperson said the target had not caused any damage or injuries. "I cannot confirm exactly how close it was to the port, but the fact that, according to protocol, no sirens were sounded means that it was far enough," the spokesperson said, declining to say whether the target or its source had been identified. In December, the Israeli military said it had intercepted a drone that had crossed from Lebanon, triggering sirens in Haifa's suburbs. The military said the target had been intercepted within Haifa's maritime zone, which extends 25 nautical miles from the shore, according to a maritime security source. Israel and the Iranian-backed Lebanese group Hezbollah have engaged in their deadliest cross-border hostilities in over 17 years, prompted by an attack on Israel from Gaza by the Palestinian militant group Hamas that triggered a major Israeli offensive on the coastal strip. Having evacuated tens of thousands of residents from areas near the Lebanese border, Israel has threatened to escalate fighting there unless Hezbollah stops cross-border attacks. While officials have said Israel's ports are protected by air defence systems, there are growing industry concerns over the impact on Haifa of any major escalation with Hezbollah. (Reporting by Jerusalem bureau and Jonathan Saul; Editing by Kevin Liffey) Assessing the Dividend Profile of PIMCO Dynamic Income Opportunities Fund PIMCO Dynamic Income Opportunities Fund(NYSE:PDO) recently announced a dividend of $0.13 per share, payable on 2024-03-01, with the ex-dividend date set for 2024-02-09. 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 PIMCO Dynamic Income Opportunities Fund's dividend performance and assess its sustainability. What Does PIMCO Dynamic Income Opportunities Fund Do? Warning! GuruFocus has detected 1 Warning Sign with HTLF. High Yield Dividend Stocks in Gurus' Portfolio This Powerful Chart Made Peter Lynch 29% A Year For 13 Years How to calculate the intrinsic value of a stock? PIMCO Dynamic Income Opportunities Fund is a closed-end management investment company. The fund's primary investment objective is to generate a level of income that is higher than that generated by high-quality, intermediate-term U.S. debt securities. PIMCO Dynamic Income Opportunities Fund's Dividend Analysis A Glimpse at PIMCO Dynamic Income Opportunities Fund's Dividend History PIMCO Dynamic Income Opportunities Fund has maintained a consistent dividend payment record since 2021. Dividends are currently distributed on a monthly basis. Below is a chart showing annual Dividends Per Share for tracking historical trends. Breaking Down PIMCO Dynamic Income Opportunities Fund's Dividend Yield and Growth As of today, PIMCO Dynamic Income Opportunities Fund currently has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 11.65% and a 12-month forward dividend yield of 11.65%. This suggests an expectation of the same dividend payments over the next 12 months. Based on PIMCO Dynamic Income Opportunities Fund's dividend yield and five-year growth rate, the 5-year yield on cost of PIMCO Dynamic Income Opportunities Fund stock as of today is approximately 11.65%. PIMCO Dynamic Income Opportunities Fund'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 2023-06-30, PIMCO Dynamic Income Opportunities Fund's dividend payout ratio is 0.00. Story continues PIMCO Dynamic Income Opportunities Fund's profitability rank, offers an understanding of the company's earnings prowess relative to its peers. GuruFocus ranks PIMCO Dynamic Income Opportunities Fund's profitability 2 out of 10 as of 2023-06-30, suggesting the dividend may not be sustainable. The company has reported net profit in 1 year out of the past 10 years. Growth Metrics: The Future Outlook To ensure the sustainability of dividends, a company must have robust growth metrics. PIMCO Dynamic Income Opportunities Fund's growth rank of 2 out of 10 suggests that the company has poor growth prospects and thus, the dividend may not be sustainable. Conclusion: Evaluating PIMCO Dynamic Income Opportunities Fund's Dividend Prospects Investors of PIMCO Dynamic Income Opportunities Fund are currently facing a high dividend yield coupled with concerns about the fund's long-term profitability and growth. While the consistent dividend payments may be attractive, the fund's low profitability and growth ranks indicate potential risks to dividend sustainability. As value investors, it is crucial to weigh the high yield against these risks and consider the fund's ability to maintain its dividend payments in the long term. GuruFocus Premium users can screen for high-dividend yield stocks using the High Dividend Yield Screener to find opportunities that align with their investment strategies. 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. LONDON (Reuters) - London police said on Friday that a man suspected of injuring several people last week by throwing a corrosive chemical on them is now presumed to have drowned in the River Thames. Police have been searching for Abdul Shokoor Ezedi after a woman and her two daughters, aged 8 and 3, were attacked on Jan. 31 in south London, in what authorities described as a "horrific" incident that left the mother with life-changing injuries. The case has drawn political attention in Britain because Ezedi had been granted asylum after a sexual assault conviction. Metropolitan Police Commander Jon Savell told reporters authorities now presume, based on CCTV footage, that Ezedi went into the River Thames from a bridge in west London. "It is now our main working theory that Ezedi has actually gone into the Thames from Chelsea Bridge. All of our work thus far has not seen him come off the bridge," Savell said. "If he did go in the water ... it's quite likely that he wouldn't surface for quite some while, and the experts would indicate that there is a possibility that he would never be found." The BBC said Ezedi was originally from Afghanistan and had arrived in 2016. The arrival of asylum seekers is the focus of a heated political debate in Britain on how to control illegal migration. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has made tackling the issue a key pledge ahead of an election expected later this year. (Reporting by Sachin Ravikumar; Editing by Mark Potter) FILE PHOTO: Maryland then-Governor Larry Hogan speaks at a "Politics and Eggs" forum at Saint Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire, U.S., October 6, 2022. REUTERS/Brian Snyder/File Photo WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan announced a campaign for the U.S. Senate on Friday, with the Republican seeking to replace retiring Democratic Senator Ben Cardin. Hogan, who served eight years as governor ending last year, is considered a moderate in a party that has moved rightward. He opted against a bid for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination while speaking out against Donald Trump's candidacy. Hogan said in a video on social media he would "stand up to both parties, fight for Maryland, and fix our nation's broken politics." "I don't come from the performative art school of politics," Hogan said. "I'll work with anyone who wants to do the people's business." Democrats currently hold a narrow 51-49 majority in the Senate, but Republicans believe they have a good chance of wresting control in the Nov. 5 elections, with Democrats looking to defend multiple seats in Republican-leaning states. Hogan is popular in Maryland, a traditionally Democratic-leaning state, and his entry into the race could boost Republicans in the race to succeed Cardin. Democrats seeking the party's Senate race nomination include U.S. Representative David Trone and Maryland local politician Angela Alsobrooks. (Reporting by Paul Grant; editing by Rami Ayyub and Jonathan Oatis) A woman takes a picture in front of a Motorola logo before the worldwide presentation of the Moto G mobile phone in Sao Paulo November 13, 2013. REUTERS/Nacho Doce/File Photo (Reuters) - Motorola Solutions forecast full-year adjusted profit below expectations on Thursday, taking the sheen off strong results and additional stock buyback, sending its shares down 5% in choppy trading after the bell. The telecommunication equipment company said it expects 2024 adjusted profit of $12.62 to $12.72 per share. The mid-point of the range was 1 cent below expectations of $12.68 per share. Its forecast of about 6% revenue growth this year was slightly higher than the 5.7% analysts' expectations, according to LSEG data. The Chicago, Illinois-based company provides critical communications gear such as walkie-talkies, video surveillance cameras and software services to help communities served by governments and businesses during emergencies. Motorola's revenue rose 5% to $2.85 billion in the fourth-quarter, driven by growth in North America and International markets. The figure came in higher than estimates of $2.82 billion. Adjusted per share profit of $3.90 handily beat expectations of $3.63. The company said it had expanded its share buyback authorization by $2 biliion. Last year, it repurchased $804 million worth of company stock and paid $589 million in dividends. The U.S. government and home office of the United Kingdom are the largest customers of Motorola Solutions. (Reporting by Yuvraj Malik in Bengaluru; Editing by Alan Barona) By Mohammad Salem RAFAH, Gaza Strip (Reuters) - Israeli soldiers seized Tamam al-Aswad after their tanks crashed through the walls of a Gaza City school where she was sheltering in December, later imprisoning her for weeks in Israel where she says she was insulted and mistreated. Aswad says she was freed on Thursday at the Kerem Shalom crossing point from Israel into Gaza and has been unable to contact her family after last seeing them at the moment of her arrest. Israel's military did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment on Aswad's detention and allegations of mistreatment. It has previously said it detains Palestinians in accordance with international law and its protocols are to treat prisoners with dignity. "Two tanks entered the school. I was watching from a hole in the wall and I saw them entering homes and blowing them up. I heard women's voices from inside those homes. It was terrifying," she said. Aswad is one of many Palestinians that Israel has detained during its four-month-old assault on Gaza, an offensive that has led to massive devastation across much of the tiny, crowded enclave, pushing most of its inhabitants from their homes. Palestinian health authorities say nearly 28,000 people have been killed in the war. Israel says it wants to crush the militant group Hamas which rampaged across the border on Oct. 7, killing 1,200 people and taking more than 250 hostages according to Israeli tallies. Israel has won control of much of northern and central Gaza, areas it told civilians to leave early in the conflict and says it has killed about 10,000 of the group's fighters, though Hamas disputes that. When Israeli forces entered the Omar Ibn al-Aas school in Gaza City's Sheikh Radwan district where Aswad was sheltering on Dec. 14, they lined up the men and ordered them to strip before taking the women to the side, she said. They assembled captives at the al-Taqwa mosque nearby. "They were interrogating me, asking 'which faction do you belong to?'" she said. Aswad said she told them she was only a housewife and had not harmed anybody. "They told me: 'You are a threat to Israel's security. You will be detained for five years'," she said. She was then handcuffed and blindfolded and put on a bus with other detainees, she said. ABUSE During the drive, the soldiers insulted her and other detainees, she said. She was told to keep her head bent over and despite this being very uncomfortable, they hit her on the head, arm or neck if she tried to lift her head. The same was done to others on the bus, she said. The first place where they were held for several days "was bitterly cold", Aswad said. She was then blindfolded again, handcuffed and shackled, and transferred to Damon Prison in Haifa, she said. Israel has not said how many people it has detained during its military operations in Gaza. Rights groups have estimated that the number is in the thousands. "It was forbidden to raise your head even if your neck or back hurt. It was forbidden to say anything even if you were in pain," she said. In detention, she said soldiers ordered her over to a wall where there was an Israeli flag. "The soldier said to me 'kiss the flag, kiss the flag'," she said. When she refused, he banged her head into the wall and then hit her on the back, she said. Reuters was unable to independently confirm any of the allegations. Eventually a soldier told the detainees "all the women of Gaza will return to their homes", she said. Her return was "an indescribable joy", but it is incomplete. She is now in Rafah in the south and believes her husband and children are still in Gaza City, where much of the worst fighting has happened. "God willing, we will reach each other," she said. (Reporting by Mohammad Salem, writing by Angus McDowall, Editing by William Maclean) MANILA (Reuters) - The Philippines and the United States conducted joint maritime exercises in the South China Sea on Friday, the Philippine military said, the latest round of drills underlining ongoing expansion of their defence ties. Security engagements between the treaty allies have soared in the past year, at a time of tension in the South China Sea, where the Philippines and China have traded blame over a spate of run-ins over territory. It was the third time the Philippines and former colonial ruler the United States have held joint exercises in the South China Sea since November last year, moves that have frustrated Beijing, which objects to what it sees as U.S. interference in its backyard. "It demonstrates our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, and foster close cooperation towards further enhancing our maritime capabilities," Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief Romeo Brawner said in a statement. China claims sovereignty over almost the entire South China Sea, a conduit for more than $3 trillion of commercial shipping annually, including parts of the exclusive economic zones of the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei. It has policed those claims with a vast coastguard fleet that the Philippines has accused of hostile intentions and actions that are against international law. China says it is protecting its territory. (Reporting by Karen Lema; Editing by Martin Petty) Britain's Prince Harry arrives ahead of the opening ceremony of the Invictus Games, in Duesseldorf, Germany, September 9, 2023. REUTERS/Thilo Schmuelgen/File Photo By Michael Holden and Sam Tobin LONDON (Reuters) -Britain's Prince Harry said on Friday his mission to purge the press would continue "through to the end" after he accepted substantial damages to settle his case against Mirror Group Newspapers. He also delivered another broadside against former editor Piers Morgan. In December, the High Court in London ruled that Harry had been a victim of unlawful information gathering, including phone-hacking, by journalists on the Daily Mirror, Sunday Mirror and Sunday People tabloids with the knowledge of their editors. Judge Timothy Fancourt ruled that about half the stories he examined were the result of unlawful acts and awarded the prince - the first British royal for 130 years to give evidence when he appeared as a witness last June - 140,600 pounds ($177,170) in damages. That trial had only considered 33 of 148 articles put forward by Harry's legal team, and on Friday his lawyer David Sherborne told a High Court hearing MGN had now agreed to pay further substantial damages and his legal costs, of at least 400,000, to settle the outstanding claims. In a statement, King Charles' younger son said the settlement had vindicated his claims about the newspapers' behaviour. "Everything we said was happening at Mirror Group was in fact happening, and indeed far worse as the Court ruled in its extremely damning judgement," he said in a statement read outside court by his lawyer. Fancourt concluded in December there had been widespread hacking and unlawful activities at MGN from 1996 until 2011, and Harry is was one of about 100 claimants including actors, and sports stars - who have sued MGN. Sherborne said MGN was likely to pay more than 2 million pounds to cover the claimants' legal costs for their generic case, and an interim payment of 400,000 pounds towards the prince's individual costs. MGN, now owned by Reach, said it was pleased to have reached an agreement with Harry. "Where historical wrongdoing took place, we apologise unreservedly, have taken full responsibility and paid compensation," an MGN spokesperson said. MISSION Since stepping down from royal duties in March 2020 and moving to California with his American wife Meghan, the prince has made it his mission to rid the British press of the senior executives and editors he accuses of abusing their power to spread lies and unlawfully intrude into people's lives. The Mirror case is his biggest victory so far in that cause, and he has further, similar lawsuits pending against Associated Newspapers, the publisher of the Daily Mail, and News Corp.'s British newspaper arm, News Group Newspapers. "As I said back in December, our mission continues," his statement said. "It is the very reason why I started this, and why I will continue to see it through to the end." He again called for the authorities to take action and berated the high-profile broadcaster Piers Morgan, a former Daily Mirror editor, who Fancourt concluded was among the editors who had known about the "widespread" unlawful behaviour. Morgan, now one of the most prominent and vocal critics of Harry and Meghan, gave a statement after the December judgment saying he had never hacked a phone nor told anybody else to do so. Harry's mission was not to reform the press but to destroy the monarchy, Morgan said. "In light of all this, we call again for the authorities to uphold the rule of law and to prove that no one is above it. That includes Mr Morgan, who as editor, knew perfectly well what was going on, as the judge held," Harry's statement said. Harry was not in court for Friday's hearing, having made a flying trip to Britain earlier this week to see his father after the king had been diagnosed with a form of cancer. They were able to meet for under an hour on Tuesday before Charles left London for his home in eastern England where he is recuperating as he undergoes outpatient treatment. Harry, estranged from his family after his criticism of them and the monarchy, left the following day for California. (Reporting by Michael Holden and Sam Tobin; Editing by William James, Alison Williams and Angus MacSwan) People walk on the Chain Bridge as they take part in a protest to demand the resignation of Hungarian President Katalin Novak, after she granted pardon in a sex abuse case, in Budapest, Hungary, February 9, 2024. REUTERS/Bernadett Szabo By Boldizsar Gyori BUDAPEST (Reuters) - At least 1,000 people protested in Hungary's capital on Friday demanding the resignation of President Katalin Novak over her decision to pardon a man convicted as an accomplice for helping cover up a sex abuse case in a children's home. Novak decided to pardon some two dozen people in April 2023, ahead of a visit by Pope Francis, among them the deputy director of a children's home who helped the former director of the home hide his crimes. The director was sentenced to 8 years in prison for sexually abusing several under-age boys in 2004-2016. The deputy director had been sentenced to more than 3 years. Hungarian opposition parties have demanded the resignation of Novak, an ally and former family minister of conservative Prime Minister Viktor Orban. Novak said on Tuesday she would never pardon a paedophile, including in this case. She said the reason behind her decision was not public and all pardons were divisive by their nature. Her office has not replied to emailed Reuters questions. Trying to contain the political fallout from the scandal, Orban, whose Fidesz party is beginning the campaign for European Parliament elections in June, submitted a constitutional amendment to parliament late on Thursday depriving the president of the right to pardon crimes committed against children. "The pardoning decision of the president of the republic has prompted a debate. This debate must be closed in a way that reassures all Hungarians," the text of the bill says. Novak has said she will willingly sign the amendment into law. But protesters who held up banners saying "Resign!" and marched to Novak's presidential office in Budapest on Friday said the only acceptable solution would be if the president stepped down. Novak was not in her office, but away on an official visit to Doha. "Resignation would be a very correct thing to do," said Bela Sedan, 53, who works as a carpenter. "Someone who makes a mistake like this should go away and not represent me as president of the Hungarian Republic." (Reporting by Boldizsar Gyori; Editing by Alison Williams) Rescuers vacate residents following a landslide in the village of Masara, Maco, Davao de Oro, Philippines, February 8, 2024. REUTERS/Mark Navales/File Photo MANILA (Reuters) -Rescue workers recovered more bodies on Friday, raising the death toll from a landslide that struck a southern Philippine province to 27, but hopes of finding more survivors remain after a child was saved earlier in the day. The landslide happened on Tuesday night outside a gold mining site in the town of Maco in the province of Davao de Oro, burying homes, including three buses and a jeep that were supposed to ferry employees of the mining company. Provincial authorities said the child who survived was in stable condition. Maco's disaster agency revised the number of missing to 89 from 110, but it did not give an explanation, with the number of injured at 32. Disaster officials previously reported that two buses, carrying 27 passengers were buried, but mining operator Apex Mining said in a statement on Friday that four vehicles were found buried in the landslide. A communications officer at Apex said the company has no information yet on how many passengers the vehicles were carrying when the landslide occurred. Apex earlier said the buses have a 60-seating capacity, while the jeep can sit 36 passengers. Torrential rains have battered Davao de Oro in recent weeks, triggering floods and landslides. (Reporting by Karen Lema; Editing by Jacqueline Wong) FILE PHOTO: Russian and North Korean flags fly at the Vostochny osmodrome, the venue of the meeting between Russia's President Vladimir Putin and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un, in the far eastern Amur region, Russia, September 13, 2023. Sputnik/Artem By Jack Kim SEOUL (Reuters) - About 100 Russians flew to North Korea on Friday for a private tour, becoming the first foreign group to visit the reclusive state following the COVID-19 pandemic in a landmark trip summed up by the Russian embassy as "Pyongyang opens its door." North Korea shuttered its borders with some of the tightest restrictions during the pandemic, in one incident shooting dead a South Korean who floated unauthorized into its waters. An Air Koryo flight, operated by North Korea with an ageing fleet of mostly Russian-made aircraft, carried the 100 visitors to the Pyongyang international airport, the Russian embassy said in a Facebook post on Friday. The group included people in the tourism business and "travellers from literally all parts of Russia from Kaliningrad to Vladivostok" who will spend four days taking in sights in the North including a major ski resort, it said. "We will look forward to new encounters with tourists from Russia!" it said. The ski resort it mentioned was a high-profile development project spearheaded by North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un after he took power in 2011. South Korea's Yonhap news agency earlier cited Russia's Tass news agency as saying that 97 Russians, including teen ski athletes, departed from Russia's far eastern city of Vladivostok on the first group tour to North Korea since the pandemic. The visit comes after Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin met north of Vladivostok in September and pledged closer economic and military cooperation amid charges by Washington that Pyongyang was helping Putin in the war in Ukraine. (Reporting by Jack Kim, Editing by William Maclean) Senegal's Foreign Minister Aissata Tall Sall speaks during a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken at the State Department in Washington, U.S., June 17, 2022. REUTERS/Tasos Katopodis/Pool/File Photo By Ngouda Dione and Cooper Inveen DAKAR (Reuters) -Clashes between security forces and protesters on Friday gripped Senegal's capital and other cities, the first widespread unrest over the delay of a presidential election that many fear could lead to protracted instability. Less than three weeks before the Feb. 25 vote, parliament voted to push it back to December, sealing an extension of President Macky Sall's mandate that has raised concerns that one of the remaining democracies in coup-hit West Africa is under threat. In the capital Dakar, police in riot gear fired tear gas, stun grenades and what appeared to be rubber bullets at large crowds of protesters who were burning tyres and throwing stones, a Reuters reporter said. One student was killed in the northern city of Saint-Louis in what would be the first death in the growing public backlash to the postponement, opposition leader Khalifa Sall said in an online post. Reuters could not immediately verify the report. A representative of the student's university did not respond to a request for comment. "The hearts of all democrats bleed at this outburst of clashes provoked by the unjustified halting of the electoral process," said Khalifa Sall, who has called recent events an "institutional coup." In Dakar, some of the demonstrators waved Senegalese flags, while others shouted slogans like "Macky Sall is a dictator". "We are ready to give our lives so that the people can be freed, so that Senegal can rid itself of Macky Sall," said one protester by a pile of blazing tyres. Demonstrators also faced off against police elsewhere, including Touba city in central Senegal, Thies city east of Dakar, the northern city of Richard Toll and Kolda in the south, residents told Reuters or posts on social media showed. Sall, who has reached his constitutional limit of two terms, said he delayed the vote due to a dispute over the candidate list that threatened the credibility of the electoral process. Some critics accuse him of trying to cling to power, while the West African bloc ECOWAS and foreign powers have criticised the move as a break with Senegal's democratic tradition. "Senegal has perhaps never experienced a crisis like the one we are experiencing and we must overcome it," said Justice Minister Aissata Tall Sall. "We must calm spirits." In an interview on Friday, Tall Sall said the postponement was not the president's decision but parliament's. She also said legal challenges filed to the Constitutional Court did not fall in its jurisdiction. "This postponement of the presidential election was done in perfect conformity with the constitution," she said. Not all agree. On Friday, the U.S. embassy in Dakar said the United States supported an earlier call from ECOWAS for authorities to restore the electoral calendar in line with the constitution. "We have heard from a wide range of Senegalese political and civil society actors who share this view," the embassy said in an online post. The postponement bill was passed by 105 legislators in the 165-seat assembly on Monday after security forces broke up an attempt by a group of opposition members to block the vote and dispersed small-scale protests outside parliament with tear gas. Thirty-nine lawmakers in opposition coalition Yewwi Askan Wi and several opposition presidential candidates have since filed legal challenges with the Constitutional Court. Tall Sall said the court could not handle these because they did not fall in its purview. She did not say which legal body would look at the challenges, but said the fact opponents were turning to the courts meant "we are in a functioning democracy." (Additional reporting by Diadie Ba; Writing by Nellie Peyton and Alessandra Prentice; Editing by William Maclean, Mark Potter and Cynthia Osterman) When a single insider purchases stock, it is typically not a major deal. However, when multiple insiders purchase stock, like in Clearside Biomedical, Inc.'s (NASDAQ:CLSD) instance, it's good news for shareholders. While insider transactions are not the most important thing when it comes to long-term investing, we would consider it foolish to ignore insider transactions altogether. See our latest analysis for Clearside Biomedical The Last 12 Months Of Insider Transactions At Clearside Biomedical In the last twelve months, the biggest single purchase by an insider was when insider Bradford Whitmore bought US$100k worth of shares at a price of US$0.74 per share. Although we like to see insider buying, we note that this large purchase was at significantly below the recent price of US$1.38. While it does suggest insiders consider the stock undervalued at lower prices, this transaction doesn't tell us much about what they think of current prices. Happily, we note that in the last year insiders paid US$117k for 155.78k shares. But they sold 30.90k shares for US$39k. Overall, Clearside Biomedical insiders were net buyers during the last year. You can see a visual depiction of insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last 12 months, below. 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. Clearside Biomedical Insiders Are Selling The Stock The last three months saw some Clearside Biomedical insider selling. Insiders divested only US$39k worth of shares in that time. Neither the lack of buying nor the presence of selling is heartening. But the selling simply isn't sufficiently substantial to be of much use as a signal. Insider Ownership Of Clearside Biomedical Another way to test the alignment between the leaders of a company and other shareholders is to look at how many shares they own. We usually like to see fairly high levels of insider ownership. From our data, it seems that Clearside Biomedical insiders own 6.8% of the company, worth about US$6.9m. Whilst better than nothing, we're not overly impressed by these holdings. Story continues So What Do The Clearside Biomedical Insider Transactions Indicate? We did not see any insider buying in the last three months, but we did see selling. But the sales were small, so we're not concerned. However, our analysis of transactions over the last year is heartening. While we have no worries about the insider transactions, we'd be more comfortable if they owned more Clearside Biomedical stock. 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. Our analysis shows 5 warning signs for Clearside Biomedical (1 can't be ignored!) and we strongly recommend you look at them before investing. 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. (Reuters) - The Manhattan district attorney indicted seven people on Thursday over their role in an attack on New York City police officers during a brawl in Times Square last month, bringing charges of assault and other offenses. Five of the people were arrested within hours or days of the incident, and two others remained at large on Thursday, according to the district attorney's office. An eighth person has been charged separately by prosecutors in a criminal complaint, rather by a grand jury. Investigators have not yet identified three others believed to have been involved in the Jan. 27 melee, the D.A.'s office said. According to a court filing with the indictment, the people charged were identified through video taken from surveillance and police body-worn cameras, as well as from interviews with witnesses. The incident erupted when two New York Police Department (NYPD) officers approached a group of people on the street and told them to move, leading to a brawl between the defendants and the officers, prosecutors said. The district attorney's office identified five of the seven people in the indictment: Yohenry Brito, Darwin Andrews Gomez-Izquiel, Yorman Reveron and Kelvin Servita Arocha, who were charged with second-degree assault and obstruction; and Wilson Juarez, who was charged with evidence tampering and hindering prosecution. The identities of and charges against the two others remain sealed while police search for them, prosecutors said. (Reporting by Steve Gorman in Los Angeles. Editing by Gerry Doyle) By Steve Gorman (Reuters) -A private passenger jet with five people aboard crash-landed on a busy Florida highway and collided with two vehicles on the ground in a fiery accident on Friday that killed two people, according to authorities and news footage from the scene. The Bombardier Challenger 600 business jet, which took off from Ohio, was on approach to Naples Airport when the pilot radioed that both the plane's turbofan engines had failed, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said in a statement. Video and photos from the scene showed the aircraft engulfed in flames and smoke after it crash-landed on Interstate 75 near Naples, on southwestern Florida's Gulf Coast, and came to rest beside a roadside retaining wall. The Florida Highway Patrol said the plane also struck a car and a pickup truck on the highway. The jet was carrying five people, according to both the NTSB and the Federal Aviation Administration. Highway Patrol spokesperson Molly Best said three people from the plane survived and that two other people were killed. But she declined to specify whether the two fatalities were from the plane or the vehicles involved, saying next of kin were still being notified. The number of people who were riding in the impacted car and truck was not given. Miami-based television station WPLG said the pilot was heard on an air traffic control audio recording telling the Naples control tower that the plane had lost its two engines and was unable to make it to the airport. WPLG said the plane, operated by the Hop-a-Jet charter aviation carrier, was ultimately destined for an executive airport in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where that company is based. The flight originated at Ohio State University Airport in Columbus, the NTSB said. Members of an NTSB crash investigation team arrived on the scene within a few hours, an agency spokesperson said. (Reporting by Steve Gorman in Los Angeles; Additional reporting by Dan Whitcomb in Long Beach and Kanishka Singh and Jasper Ward, both in Washington; Editing by David Ljunggren and Sandra Maler) Farmers block A2 highway during a protest over price pressures, taxes and green regulation, grievances shared by farmers across Europe, in Torija, Spain, February 9, 2024. REUTERS/Guillermo Martinez TORIJA, Spain (Reuters) - Spanish farmers on Friday blocked streets across the country in a fourth day of protests and announced plans to gather in Madrid as they railed against the EU's environmental rules and what they see as excessive taxes and red tape. Since Tuesday, Spanish farmers have joined peers from Germany, France, Italy, Portugal and Belgium in daily protests that include blocking several highways and ports. The three main farmers' associations - COAG, Asaja and UPA - kicked off their demonstrations on Thursday, though many had started earlier in the week. On Friday, traffic on the A-2 highway to Madrid near the central town of Torija snarled behind a convoy of tractors bearing Spanish flags and blaring their horns, while farmers wearing yellow vests waved baguettes from an overpass at the vehicles below. "They aren't letting us work, nor sow what we need to sow: wheat and barley," said cereal farmer Javier Corral, 63, who described bureaucracy as the main problem they faced. Farmers across the EU claim the rules to protect the environment make them less competitive compared to other regions. A viral video on social media appeared to show a group of protesters near the southern city of Jerez grabbing from a truck boxes of cherry tomatoes they said were of Moroccan origin and dumping their contents. According to newspaper El Mundo, protesters clashed with police near the southwestern city of Merida, lobbing rocks at officers, who deployed tear gas to disperse them. Plataforma 6, a newly created farmers' group, said it would gather outside all regional government buildings in Spain, including Madrid. The group is planning protests in the capital on Saturday, it said on X. The head of business association CEOE Antonio Garamendi expressed solidarity with the farmers' protests but said they had to be conducted "in moderation to avoid harming other sectors". (Reporting by Guillermo Martinez and Marco Trujillo; Writing by Catarina Demony and David Latona; Editing by Andrei Khalip and Charlie Devereux) DUBAI (Reuters) -Syrian air defences shot down on Friday two drones in the west of Damascus, state media reported, citing a military source as saying the drones came from the direction of the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights to the west of the capital. The Israeli military has said it does not comment on reports in foreign media. Syrian state media reported earlier that the air defences were responding to "hostile targets" in the vicinity of Damascus. Since December, Israeli strikes have killed more than half a dozen Revolutionary Guards, including a top intelligence general. Separately, the U.S. military launched airstrikes earlier this month in Syria and Iraq against more than 85 targets linked to Iran's Revolutionary Guards and the militias it backs, in retaliation for an attack in Jordan in January that killed three U.S. troops. Iran's Revolutionary Guards have suffered one of their most bruising spells in Syria since arriving a decade ago to aid President Bashar al-Assad in the Syrian war, as the United States and Israel conduct strikes against Iran-backed militias in the country. Informed sources told Reuters that the Guards had pulled out some of their senior officers as a result. Iran's ambassador to Syria said on Thursday that Iran remained "present" in Syria. Iran's foreign minister is due in Lebanon on Friday and then Damascus early next week for meetings with top officials. (Reporting by Nayera Abdallah and Ahmed Elimam; Writing by Tala Ramadan and Maya Gebeily; Editing by Alex Richardson and Hugh Lawson) By Xinghui Kok, Lisa Barrington and Orathai Sriring SINGAPORE/BANGKOK (Reuters) - Chinese engineer and aviation enthusiast Wei Meng is exactly the kind of visitor the tourism authorities in Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand are looking for. After Singapore scrapped visas for Chinese citizens, Wei, 44, said he ditched plans to go to Australia and booked a six-day holiday there instead. He said he also looked into visiting Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur, the two other visa-free Southeast Asian countries, but decided on the city-state because of the Singapore Airshow, which opens to the public on Feb 24. As thousands of Chinese prepare to go abroad during the first Spring Festival holiday since Beijing lifted pandemic travel restrictions last year, Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia are hoping their unprecedented visa waivers will lure a large proportion of these visitors - and their much-needed spending. Chinese travellers often complain about the length of time and the hassle it takes for them to obtain travel visas, and their passport is 62nd on the Henley Passport Index, which ranks the passports of 199 countries according to the number of destinations their holders can access without a prior visa. While waiving visas can make a destination more attractive, China's slowing economic growth, job uncertainties and decline in income this year are likely to temper any outbound travel, analysts say. "There is a feeling that the economic hardships and lack of disposable income are hitting much harder than in other parts of the world and that any travel is therefore staying within China where costs are lower," said John Grant, chief analyst at travel data firm OAG, adding that the three Southeast Asian countries "may be looking for the trickles." BIG SPENDERS Before the pandemic, Chinese tourists were a vital source of revenue, accounting for more than a quarter of all holiday makers to Thailand in 2019. Chinese visitors were also the top spenders in Singapore, splashing out over S$4 billion ($3 billion) that same year. Even though fewer Chinese are travelling than before the pandemic, Chinese account for the bulk of visitors to Thailand, which launched its visa waiver in September, and tourism authorities there say they expect 177,000 Chinese tourists for the Lunar New Year holiday, more than three-times 2023 levels. "The direction has been good since the visa free programme," said Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, deputy governor at the Tourism Authority of Thailand. "It's starting to get back to pre-pandemic levels." Malaysia's visa-free deal for Chinese started in December, and it is hoping to attract 5-7 million Chinese visitors this year, which would be almost double pre-pandemic levels. For the Lunar New Year, hotels including those under The Ascott Limited group, are launching promotions such as discounts and special activities and snacks for the festival. Because of its status as an Asian air traffic hub, Singapore is ahead of its Southeast Asian rivals in flying in Chinese visitors, with the number of direct flights connecting mainland China rising nearly 5% this month from the same month in 2019. Both Malaysia and Thailand still have far fewer direct flights: 33% and 17% less than 2019 levels respectively, data from aviation analytics firm Cirium shows. ($1 = 35.5200 baht) ($1 = 1.3428 Singapore dollars) (This story has been corrected to fix the name to Wei Meng, and not Wei Ming, in paragraph 1) (Reporting by Xinghui Kok in Singapore, Lisa Barrington in Seoul, Orathai Sriring in Bangkok, and Rozanna Latiff in Kuala Lumpur; additional reporting by Shanghai bureau; Editing by Miyoung Kim and Miral Fahmy) A tractor with an Italian flag attached to it drives past a Colosseum as farmers protest over price pressures, taxes and green regulation, grievances shared by farmers across Europe, in Rome, Italy, February 9, 2024. REUTERS/Remo Casilli By Angelo Amante ROME (Reuters) - A convoy of tractors on Friday drove past the landmarks of ancient Rome before Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni told a delegation of farmers that the government would partially reintroduce a tax break for them. Farmers have staged demonstrations across Europe, including in Spain and Poland, to protest against low prices for produce, rising costs, cheap imports and constraints linked to the European Union's policies against climate change. They are demanding action by authorities. Four tractors, escorted by police, crossed the city streets and passed in front of the Colosseum and the Circus Maximus, adorned with Italian flags and slogans decrying the EU's green transition. "Operational and production costs are exaggerated and we are looking for answers. We don't want to create problems, we just want answers as soon as possible," one of the protesters, Luigi Allegrini, said. Farmers had initially planned a big rally in a central square but they scaled down their protest fearing that street blockades or other aggressive tactics could jeopardise their support among the public. "We are not here to protest but to make proposals," said another farmer, Roberto Rosati. Meloni chaired a meeting with farming associations at government headquarters and pledged to reintroduce an income tax break that has been scrapped in the 2024 budget, but only for those who earn up to 10,000 euros ($10,800). "The exemption must be for the weakest, a concrete support measure for those who produce and not a privilege," Meloni said at the closed-door meeting, according to remarks shared by her office. Farming is a sensitive sector for Italy's right-wing administration. Coldiretti, the main agricultural lobby, has a close relationship with the government but the current protests are being led by smaller groups. "The government has defended farmers and contested the wrong choices imposed by the European Commission from the very beginning," Meloni told the farmers. ($1 = 0.9280 euros) (Reporting by Angelo Amante, editing by Alvise Armellini and Angus MacSwan) (Reuters) - Ukraine accused Russia on Friday of using toxic chemicals in more than 200 attacks on the battlefield in January alone, a sharp increase in what it said were recorded instances of their use by Russian forces since they invaded two years ago. Russia has denied allegations of using chemical weapons in Ukraine and has accused Ukrainian forces of their use, which Kyiv denies. Neither side has produced evidence and Reuters has not been able to verify any use by either side. Ukraine has previously accused Moscow of using chloropicrin, which was used as poison gas in World War I. The latest statement by Ukraine's General Staff singled out CS, or tear gas, which it said Russia had used in various grenades. CS gas, widely used by police forces, is banned on the battlefield by the international Chemical Weapons Convention, which states in Article 1: "Each State Party undertakes not to use riot control agents as a method of warfare." The Ukrainian general staff said: "815 cases of the use of ammunition loaded with toxic chemicals by the Russian Federation were recorded. Of these, only in January 2024 229 cases." It did not name any other chemicals in its statement on the Telegram messenger app. General Oleksandr Tarnavskyi, commander of the "Tavria" operational grouping based in the south east, said separately on Telegram that enemy troops deliver chemical-loaded ammunition with drones. He mentioned chloropicrin in reference to chemicals he said had been used on Thursday. A year ago, Russia accused Ukrainian forces of using unspecified chemical weapons in drones in Russian-occupied eastern Ukraine. (Reporting by Yuliia Dysa; editing by Philippa Fletcher) Colonel general Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander of the Ukrainian Ground Forces, attends an interview with Reuters, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kharkiv region, Ukraine January 12, 2024. REUTERS/Valentyn Ogirenko/File Photo By Max Hunder KYIV (Reuters) - Ukraine's armed forces must adapt and find innovative ways to fight to achieve victory over Russian invaders, Kyiv's new armed forces chief said on Friday, in his first public remarks since taking command. Colonel-General Oleksandr Syrskyi, previously commander of ground forces, was promoted on Thursday to overall command of Ukraine's 800,000-strong armed forces, the biggest shakeup of top brass since the war began, coming at a challenging time. "Only changes and constant improvement of the means and methods of warfare will make it possible to achieve success on this path," Syrskyi wrote in post on Telegram, singling out drones and electronic warfare as examples of new technology that would help Ukraine achieve victory. The cautious, pragmatic tone was notably short of the soaring rhetoric used by Ukrainian politicians throughout the war. Defence Minister Rustem Umerov said he had introduced Syrskyi to the General Staff, and promised "all possible support for the actions and decisions of the command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine". "Defence is in good hands," Umerov said on Facebook. The change in commanders comes in a difficult period for Ukraine, which has failed to recapture significant territory since late 2022 and now faces a potential disruption in military aid supply from the United States, its biggest backer. Russian forces are now on the offensive across the frontlines and making gradual inroads into the town of Avdiivka, which Moscow has been trying to capture for several months. As ground commander, Syrskyi oversaw the successful defence of Ukraine's capital at the outset of the Russian invasion and a lightning counter-offensive in the north-east, two of the biggest successes of the first year of the war. However, some Ukrainian soldiers have criticized him for his subsequent leadership during Ukraine's prolonged defence of the eastern town of Bakhmut, where thousands of troops perished on both sides before Kyiv's forces withdrew in May 2023. In his announcement yesterday, Zelenskiy said Syrskyi would present his new team with the aim of "resetting" the military. (Reporting by Max Hunder; Additional reporting by Yuliia Dysa; Editing by Toby Chopra and Peter Graff) A man points at blood stains at the site where three Palestinians were killed during an Israeli raid, at a hospital in Jenin, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, January 30, 2024. REUTERS/Raneen Sawafta/File Photo GENEVA (Reuters) - The killing of three Palestinian men in a hospital in the occupied West Bank last month by Israeli commandos disguised as medical workers and Muslim women may amount to war crimes, a group of U.N. experts said on Friday. The three militants were killed on Jan. 29 in a joint undercover operation by the army, Shin Bet security service and border police in the Ibn Sina hospital in Jenin, one of the most volatile cities in the West Bank, Israel's military said. "Under international humanitarian law, killing a defenceless injured patient who is being treated in a hospital amounts to a war crime," the U.N. experts said in a statement, referring to Basel Al-Ghazzawi, a patient being treated for injuries it said were caused by an Israeli air strike. "By disguising themselves as seemingly harmless, protected medical personnel and civilians, the Israeli forces also prima facie committed the war crime of perfidy, which is prohibited in all circumstances," they added, calling for Israel to conduct an investigation. The experts concerned are special rapporteurs engaged by the United Nations to examine a specific human rights issue. Israels military was not immediately available for comment on their statement. CCTV footage from the hospital showed a group of about 10 people, dressed variously in civilian clothes and medical garb and including three in headscarves and women's clothing, pacing through a corridor, armed with assault rifles. Israel's military has said that one of the men killed in the hospital was a member of the militant Palestinian group Hamas, which governs Gaza, and the others worked for Jenin Brigade and the armed wing of Islamic Jihad. The West Bank has seen an explosion of violence since the Hamas-led attack on Israel on Oct. 7 and the subsequent invasion of Gaza by Israel. (Reporting by Emma Farge in Geneva; Additional reporting by Emily Rose in Jerusalem; Editing by Gareth Jones) We can readily understand why investors are attracted to unprofitable companies. For example, biotech and mining exploration companies often lose money for years before finding success with a new treatment or mineral discovery. But the harsh reality is that very many loss making companies burn through all their cash and go bankrupt. Given this risk, we thought we'd take a look at whether PNX Metals (ASX:PNX) shareholders should be worried about its cash burn. For the purposes of this article, cash burn is the annual rate at which an unprofitable company spends cash to fund its growth; its negative free cash flow. The first step is to compare its cash burn with its cash reserves, to give us its 'cash runway'. View our latest analysis for PNX Metals Does PNX Metals Have A Long Cash Runway? A company's cash runway is the amount of time it would take to burn through its cash reserves at its current cash burn rate. In June 2023, PNX Metals had AU$2.9m in cash, and was debt-free. Importantly, its cash burn was AU$3.6m over the trailing twelve months. So it had a cash runway of approximately 10 months from June 2023. To be frank, this kind of short runway puts us on edge, as it indicates the company must reduce its cash burn significantly, or else raise cash imminently. The image below shows how its cash balance has been changing over the last few years. How Is PNX Metals' Cash Burn Changing Over Time? Because PNX Metals isn't currently generating revenue, we consider it an early-stage business. Nonetheless, we can still examine its cash burn trajectory as part of our assessment of its cash burn situation. It's possible that the 19% reduction in cash burn over the last year is evidence of management tightening their belts as cash reserves deplete. PNX Metals makes us a little nervous due to its lack of substantial operating revenue. We prefer most of the stocks on this list of stocks that analysts expect to grow. Story continues How Easily Can PNX Metals Raise Cash? Even though it has reduced its cash burn recently, shareholders should still consider how easy it would be for PNX Metals to raise more cash in the future. Issuing new shares, or taking on debt, are the most common ways for a listed company to raise more money for its business. Many companies end up issuing new shares to fund future growth. By comparing a company's annual cash burn to its total market capitalisation, we can estimate roughly how many shares it would have to issue in order to run the company for another year (at the same burn rate). Since it has a market capitalisation of AU$32m, PNX Metals' AU$3.6m in cash burn equates to about 11% of its market value. Given that situation, it's fair to say the company wouldn't have much trouble raising more cash for growth, but shareholders would be somewhat diluted. How Risky Is PNX Metals' Cash Burn Situation? Even though its cash runway makes us a little nervous, we are compelled to mention that we thought PNX Metals' cash burn relative to its market cap was relatively promising. Even though we don't think it has a problem with its cash burn, the analysis we've done in this article does suggest that shareholders should give some careful thought to the potential cost of raising more money in the future. Separately, we looked at different risks affecting the company and spotted 6 warning signs for PNX Metals (of which 4 shouldn't be ignored!) you should know about. Of course PNX Metals may not be the best stock to buy. So you may wish to see this free collection of companies boasting high return on equity, or this list of stocks that insiders are buying. 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 Dan Whitcomb (Reuters) -The U.S. Army said on Thursday it was abandoning development of a Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft (FARA), a next-generation scout helicopter, after spending about $2 billion on the program. The Army said that after a "sober assessment of the modern battlefield" it would instead increase investment in uncrewed aircraft. "We are learning from the battlefield - especially in Ukraine - that aerial reconnaissance has fundamentally changed, Army Chief of Staff General Randy George said in a statement. The Army began the FARA program in 2018 and two years later picked designs by Textron's Bell unit and Sikorsky, a division of Lockheed Martin Company. Sikorsky said in a statement that its X2 aircraft, designed for the FARA program, offered "speed, range and agility that no other helicopter in the world can match." "We remain confident in X2 aircraft for U.S. and international mission needs now and in the future," Sikorsky said. "We are disappointed in this decision and will await a U.S. Army debrief to better understand its choice. The Army said that in addition to ending development of FARA, it would cease production of the UH-60V version of the Black Hawk. After the announcement, Virginia Rep. Rob Wittman, Republican vice chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, said he would hold a hearing on the Army's aviation plans. (Reporting by Dan Whitcomb; additional reporting by Mike Stone; Editing by Stephen Coates and Gerry Doyle) FILE PHOTO: Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin, Gen. Charles "CQ" Brown and Sergeant Major Troy E. Black attend the dignified transfer of the remains of Army Reserve Sergeants William Rivers, Kennedy Sanders and Breonna Moffett, three U.S. service membe By Phil Stewart and Idrees Ali WASHINGTON (Reuters) - More than a month before a deadly drone strike that killed three U.S. soldiers in Jordan, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin sought to reassure U.S. troops about the military's ability to withstand attacks by Iran-backed militants. Austin, in previously unpublished remarks to sailors aboard the Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier on Dec. 20, said the number one reason the militants had failed to that point was that "they're not very good at what they do." "Every day, Iranian proxies are shooting at our troops that are in Iraq and Syria. They haven't been effective at all because (of) two reasons: Number one, they're not very good at what they do," Austin told the crew. "But number two, we've done a lot of things to ensure that we have the adequate force protection ... Eventually, as we all know, they may get lucky one day and cause injury to one of our troops. But we will stay on the balls of our feet and make sure that that doesn't happen." In the wake of the drone attack, President Joe Biden's administration is vowing to do whatever it takes to protect U.S. troops from an escalating cycle of violence in the Middle East, where Iran-aligned militants are firing at them in Iraq, Syria, Jordan and off the coast of Yemen in the Red Sea. But current and former U.S. officials tell Reuters the militants' periodic success in attacks may be unavoidable, given the sheer number of drones, rockets and missiles fired at U.S. troops and the fact that base defenses cannot realistically be completely effective 100% of the time. Experts also caution against underestimating the Iran-backed militants, even if most of their attacks fail. Charles Lister of the Washington-based Middle East Institute recalled former President Barack Obama's description of Islamic State as a junior varsity team in 2014 even as the group was gathering strength. "To suggest, Obama-style, that 'well, they're just a J.V. team' and we can chuckle along and take the hits and know that nothing serious is happening is just profoundly naive," Lister said. "These groups have conducted sophisticated transnational strikes, and they have a very deadly history against American troops." Still, U.S. commanders have a long history of putting on a brave face before their troops. Austin is a retired four star general who served on the ground in Iraq, himself coming under fire. Asked for comment, Pentagon spokesperson Major General Patrick Ryder said Austin was outraged and deeply saddened by the soldiers' deaths in Jordan and had "no higher priority than protecting our forces and taking care of our people." TRAGIC, BUT PREDICTABLE As of Feb. 7, there have been more than 168 attacks against U.S. troops in Iraq, Syria and Jordan since Middle East tensions surged in October with the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war. That has caused injuries among 143 U.S. service members, with two sustaining very serious injuries and nine suffering serious injuries. The worst attack occurred on Jan. 28, when a drone slammed into a U.S. base called Tower 22 on Jordan's border with Syria, killing Sergeant William Jerome Rivers, Specialist Kennedy Ladon Sanders and Specialist Breonna Alexsondria Moffett. One senior U.S. military official, speaking on condition of anonymity, called that attack "tragic, unlucky - but predictable." "Because that's the nature of combat. It's not an antiseptic environment where you can attain perfection" in defending yourself, the former official said. General Daniel Hokanson, the head of the U.S. National Guard, which had troops stationed at Tower 22 who were wounded, told reporters on Thursday that the military works hard to ensure troops have defenses to drive down the risk. "Sadly, no system is 100% successful in anything," Hokanson said. NOT A SOPHISTICATED STRIKE While a U.S. military investigation continues, U.S. officials have told Reuters several factors may have contributed to the failure of American defenses at the remote base in Jordan. Most notable, they say, was the low altitude that the drone was flying as it approached Tower 22. But officials say it does not appear the militants did anything particularly sophisticated that Sunday morning, like intentionally timing the approach of the drone to coincide with the arrival of an American drone to confuse U.S. defenses. Instead, some U.S. officials have concluded that the success of the Jan. 28 strike came down to probability - throw enough munitions at well-defended targets and eventually some will get through. The militant strike - which the Pentagon says had the "footprints" of the Iraq-based Kataib Hezbollah - has led to a wave of U.S. retaliatory strikes in Iraq and Syria linked to Iran's Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) and militias it backs. That includes a drone strike in Baghdad on Wednesday that killed a commander of Kataib Hezbollah. Ryder, the Pentagon spokesperson, told Reuters the U.S. military continued to "take necessary steps to safeguard our forces who serve in harm's way, and continuously reevaluate our force protection measures." He did not offer details on any adjustments to U.S. defenses, citing operational security. Critics of the Biden administration's approach caution that the retaliatory strikes do not amount to enough pressure on Tehran, which supports these groups and, some current and former officials believe, could instruct them to stop. Some Republicans in Congress have pushed for U.S. strikes on Iranian forces, including on Iranian soil, which the Biden administration has resisted over fears of drawing Iran directly into a broader war. "Iran can stop these attacks if they want to," the former U.S. military official said. But, the official added: "Why should they? They're not being hurt by our response." (Reporting by Phil Stewart and Idrees Ali; Editing by Don Durfee and Deepa Babington) As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 9, 2024 UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 SCHEDULE 14A Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Amendment No. ) Filed by the Registrant Filed by a Party other than the Registrant Check the appropriate box: Preliminary Proxy Statement Confidential, for Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2)) Definitive Proxy Statement Definitive Additional Materials Soliciting Material under 240.14a-12 First Trust High Income Long/Short Fund (Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter) (Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant) Payment of Filing Fee (Check all boxes that apply): No fee required. Fee paid previously with preliminary materials. Fee computed on table in exhibit required by Item 25(b) per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(1) and 0-11. First Trust High Income Long/Short Fund February 9, 2024 Dear Shareholder: I am contacting you to remind you to vote FOR the proposed reorganization of First Trust High Income Long/Short Fund (FSD) (the Fund) with and into abrdn Income Credit Strategies Fund (ACP) (the Reorganization) which will be considered at the Funds special meeting of shareholders, scheduled for February 20, 2024. INSTITUTIONAL SHAREHOLDER SERVICES (ISS), THE LEADING INDEPENDENT PROXY ADVISORY FIRM, HAS RECOMMENDED THAT SHAREHOLDERS VOTE FOR THE APPROVAL OF THE REORGANIZATION ON THE FUNDS WHITE PROXY CARD. The Fund believes there are many potential benefits of the Funds tax-free Reorganization into ACP, including: Higher Distribution Rate: ACP has a higher distribution rate than your Fund. Narrower Trading Discount: ACP has a history of trading at a narrow discount to net asset value, whereas your Fund has historically traded at a wider and more persistent discount. Improved Trading: Shares of ACP trade at higher volumes at a tighter bid/ask spread percentage than those of your Fund. Better Performance: ACP has outperformed your Fund on both a market value and net asset value basis for the 1-year period ending December 31, 2023. Please refer to the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus for the full presentation of performance of ACP and the Fund. The Board of Trustees of the Fund (the Board) has unanimously recommended that shareholders vote FOR the approval of the Reorganization. To vote FOR the Reorganization, use the WHITE proxy card enclosed. Vote the WHITE proxy card. Voting the WHITE proxy card will help your Fund obtain the needed approval to consummate the Reorganization. Discard the GOLD proxy card. Saba Capital Management L.P. (Saba) is conducting a self-interested counter-solicitation and is trying to derail the Reorganization. Saba is an activist hedge fund investor using the Reorganization solely for its own economic interests. Saba was not a shareholder of record prior to the announcement of the Reorganization, and cannot vote any of its after-the-fact acquired shares. Saba is trying to derail the Reorganization to advance its own agenda at the expense of shareholders at-large. The Board urges you NOT to sign any proxy cards sent to you by Saba. If you already signed a gold proxy card, you have the right as a shareholder of the Fund to change your vote before the meeting takes place. You can do this by completing the WHITE proxy card sent to you by your Fund, which will replace the gold proxy card you previously completed. Do not let Saba hijack the Reorganization to advance its own self-interested agenda. Vote FOR the Reorganization on the WHITE proxy card by following the instructions contained therein. Regardless of the number of shares you own, it is important that your shares be represented at the meeting by voting your proxy. The Board believes the Reorganization is in the overall best interests of the Funds shareholders and unanimously recommends that you vote your shares FOR the approval of the Reorganization by voting your WHITE proxy card. If you have any questions, please contact the Funds proxy solicitor, EQ Fund Solutions LLC, at (866) 620-8437 weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Thank you for your continued support. Sincerely, First Trust High Income Long/Short Fund _ /s/ James A. Bowen James A. Bowen Chairman of the Board UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 FORM F-X APPOINTMENT OF AGENT FOR SERVICE OF PROCESS AND UNDERTAKING A. Name of issuer or person filing (Filer): GL Sciences Inc. B. (1) This is [check one] x an original filing for the Filer an amended filing for the Filer (2) A filer may also file the Form F-X in paper under a hardship exemption provided by Regulation S-T Rule 201 or 202 (17 CFR 232.201 or 232.202). When submitting the Form F-X in paper under a hardship exemption, a filer must provide the legend required by Regulation S-T Rule 201(a)(2) or 202(c) (17 CFR 232.201(a)(2) or 232.202(c)) on the cover page of the Form F-X. C. Identify the filing in conjunction with which this Form is being filed: Name of registrant: GL Sciences Inc. Form type: Form CB _ File Number (if known): N/A Filed by: GL Sciences Inc. Date Filed (if filed concurrently, so indicate): Filed concurrently D. The Filer is incorporated or organized under the laws of Japan and has its principal place of business at Shinjuku Square Tower 30F, 6-22-1 Nishi Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan 163-1130 (Tel: +81-3-5323-6633) . E. The Filer designates and appoints Universal Registered Agents, Inc. (Agent) located at 26 Carville Lane, East Greenbush, NY 12061 (Tel: +1-855-236-9172) as the agent of the Filer upon whom may be served any process, pleadings, subpoenas, or other papers in (a) any investigation or administrative proceeding conducted by the Commission; and (b) any civil suit or action brought against the Filer or to which the Filer has been joined as defendant or respondent, in any appropriate court in any place subject to the jurisdiction of any state or of the United States or of any of its territories or possessions or of the District of Columbia, where the investigation, proceeding or cause of action arises out of or relates to or concerns (i) any offering made or purported to be made in connection with the securities registered or qualified by the Filer on Form CB on February 9, 2024 or any purchases or sales of any security in connection therewith; (ii) the securities in relation to which the obligation to file an annual report on Form 40-F arises, or any purchases or sales of such securities; (iii) any tender offer for the securities of a Canadian issuer with respect to which filings are made by the Filer with the Commission on Schedule 13E-4F, 14D-1F or 14D-9F; or (iv) the securities in relation to which the Filer acts as trustee pursuant to an exemption under Rule 10a-5 under the Trust Indenture Act of 1939. The Filer stipulates and agrees that any such civil suit or action or administrative proceeding may be commenced by the service of process upon, and that service of an administrative subpoena shall be effected by service upon such agent for service of process, and that service as aforesaid shall be taken and held in all courts and administrative tribunals to be valid and binding as if personal service thereof had been made. 1 F. Each person filing this Form in connection with: (a) the use of Form F-10, 40-F or Schedule 13E-4F, 14D-1F or 14D-9F stipulates and agrees to appoint a successor agent for service of process and file an amended Form F-X if the Filer discharges the Agent or the Agent is unwilling or unable to accept service on behalf of the Filer at any time until six years have elapsed from the date the issuer of the securities to which such Forms and Schedules relate has ceased reporting under the Exchange Act; (b) the use of Form F-8, Form F-80 or Form CB stipulates and agrees to appoint a successor agent for service of process and file an amended Form F-X if the Filer discharges the Agent or the Agent is unwilling or unable to accept service on behalf of the Filer at any time until six years have elapsed following the effective date of the latest amendment to such Form F-8, Form F-80 or Form CB; (c) its status as trustee with respect to securities registered on Form F-7, F-8, F-10, F-80 stipulates and agrees to appoint a successor agent for service of process and file an amended Form F-X if the Filer discharges the Agent or the Agent is unwilling or unable to accept service on behalf of the Filer at any time during which any of the securities subject to the indenture remain outstanding; and (d) the use of Form 1-A or other Commission form for an offering pursuant to Regulation A stipulates and agrees to appoint a successor agent for service of process and file an amended Form F-X if the Filer discharges the Agent or the Agent is unwilling or unable to accept service on behalf of the Filer at any time until six years have elapsed from the date of the last sale of securities in reliance upon the Regulation A exemption. Each filer further undertakes to advise the Commission promptly of any change to the Agents name or address during the applicable period by amendment of this Form, referencing the file number of the relevant form in conjunction with which the amendment is being filed. G Each person filing this Form, other than a trustee filing in accordance with General Instruction I. (a) of this Form, undertakes to make available, in person or by telephone, representatives to respond to inquiries made by the Commission staff, and to furnish promptly, when requested to do so by the Commission staff, information relating to: the Forms, Schedules and offering statements described in General Instructions I. (a), I. (b), I. (c), I. (d) and I. (f) of this Form, as applicable; the securities to which such Forms, Schedules and offering statements relate; and the transactions in such securities. 2 The Filer certifies that it has duly caused this power of attorney, consent, stipulation and agreement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Tokyo, Country of Japan, this 9th day of February, 2024. Filer: GL Sciences Inc. /s/ Yoshihiro Nagami 1 Name: Yoshihiro Nagami Title: President Date: February 9, 2024 3 This statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated. Agent: Universal Registered Agents, Inc. /s/ Kent Rockwell 1 Name: Kent Rockwell Title: CEO Date: February 9, 2024 Page 7 of 9 Pages ITEM 4 - OWNERSHIP: The following information is as of December 31, 2023: (a) Amount Beneficially Owned: 541,240 (b) Percent of Class: 8.15 (c) Number of fund shares to which such person has: (i) sole power to vote or to direct the vote 538,701 (ii) shared power to vote or to direct the vote -0- (iii) sole power to dispose or to direct the disposition of 384,400 (iv) shared power to dispose or to direct the disposition of 156,840 Of the total fund shares reported herein, 537,455 are held in accounts at PNC Bank, National Association in a fiduciary capacity for clients. Of the total fund shares reported herein, 3,493 are held in accounts at PNC Delaware Trust Company in a fiduciary capacity for clients. Of the total fund shares reported herein, 292 are held in accounts at PNC Ohio Trust Company in a fiduciary capacity for clients. The inclusion of the reporting persons and such securities in this report shall not be deemed an admission of beneficial ownership by the reporting persons for the purposes of Section 13(d) or 13(g) of the Act, or for any other purposes. ITEM 5 - OWNERSHIP OF FIVE PERCENT OR LESS OF A CLASS: Not Applicable. ITEM 6 - OWNERSHIP OF MORE THAN FIVE PERCENT ON BEHALF OF ANOTHER PERSON: Not Applicable. ITEM 7 - IDENTIFICATION AND CLASSIFICATION OF THE SUBSIDIARY WHICH ACQUIRED THE SECURITY BEING REPORTED ON BY THE PARENT HOLDING COMPANY: Included are the following subsidiaries of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc.HC: PNC Bank, National AssociationBK PNC Delaware Trust CompanyBK PNC Ohio Trust CompanyBK ITEM 8 - IDENTIFICATION AND CLASSIFICATION OF MEMBERS OF THE GROUP: Not Applicable. ITEM 9 - NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION OF GROUP: Not Applicable. UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 SCHEDULE 13G/A Under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Amendment No. 1)* Prime Number Acquisition I Corp (Name of Issuer) Common Stock, $0.0001 par value (Title of Class of Securities) 74168P206 (CUSIP Number) December 31, 2023 (Date of Event which Requires Filing of this Statement) Check the appropriate box to designate the rule pursuant to which this Schedule is filed: [_] Rule 13d-1(b) [X] Rule 13d-1(c) [_] Rule 13d-1(d) *The remainder of this cover page shall be filled out for a reporting person's initial filing on this form with respect to the subject class of securities, and for any subsequent amendment containing information which would alter the disclosures provided in a prior cover page. The information required in the remainder of this cover page shall not be deemed to be "filed" for the purpose of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 ("Act") or otherwise subject to the liabilities of that section of the Act but shall be subject to all other provisions of the Act (however, see the Notes). SCHEDULE 13G/A CUSIP No. 74168P206 1 Names of Reporting Persons Saba Capital Management, L.P. 2 Check the appropriate box if a member of a Group (see instructions) (a) [ ] (b) [ ] 3 Sec Use Only 4 Citizenship or Place of Organization Delaware Number of Shares Beneficially Owned by Each Reporting Person With: 5 Sole Voting Power -0- 6 Shared Voting Power 62,500 7 Sole Dispositive Power -0- 8 Shared Dispositive Power 62,500 9 Aggregate Amount Beneficially Owned by Each Reporting Person 62,500 10 Check box if the aggregate amount in row (9) excludes certain shares (See Instructions) [ ] 11 Percent of class represented by amount in row (9) 0.90% 12 Type of Reporting Person (See Instructions) PN; IA The percentages used herein are calculated based upon 6,923,691 shares of common stock outstanding as of August 21, 2023, as disclosed in the company's 10-Q filed August 22, 2023 SCHEDULE 13G/A CUSIP No. 74168P206 1 Names of Reporting Persons Boaz R. Weinstein 2 Check the appropriate box if a member of a Group (see instructions) (a) [ ] (b) [ ] 3 Sec Use Only 4 Citizenship or Place of Organization United States Number of Shares Beneficially Owned by Each Reporting Person With: 5 Sole Voting Power -0- 6 Shared Voting Power 62,500 7 Sole Dispositive Power -0- 8 Shared Dispositive Power 62,500 9 Aggregate Amount Beneficially Owned by Each Reporting Person 62,500 10 Check box if the aggregate amount in row (9) excludes certain shares (See Instructions) [ ] 11 Percent of class represented by amount in row (9) 0.90% 12 Type of Reporting Person (See Instructions) IN The percentages used herein are calculated based upon 6,923,691 shares of common stock outstanding as of August 21, 2023, as disclosed in the company's 10-Q filed August 22, 2023. SCHEDULE 13G/A CUSIP No. 74168P206 1 Names of Reporting Persons Saba Capital Management GP, LLC 2 Check the appropriate box if a member of a Group (see instructions) (a) [ ] (b) [ ] 3 Sec Use Only 4 Citizenship or Place of Organization Delaware Number of Shares Beneficially Owned by Each Reporting Person With: 5 Sole Voting Power -0- 6 Shared Voting Power 62,500 7 Sole Dispositive Power -0- 8 Shared Dispositive Power 62,500 9 Aggregate Amount Beneficially Owned by Each Reporting Person 62,500 10 Check box if the aggregate amount in row (9) excludes certain shares (See Instructions) [ ] 11 Percent of class represented by amount in row (9) 0.90% 12 Type of Reporting Person (See Instructions) OO The percentages used herein are calculated based upon 6,923,691 shares of common stock outstanding as of August 21, 2023, as disclosed in the company's 10-Q filed August 22, 2023 Item 1. (a) Name of Issuer: Prime Number Acquisition I Corp (b) Address of Issuer's Principal Executive Offices: 1129 NORTHERN BLVD., SUITE 404, MANHASSET, DE, 11030 Item 2. (a) Name of Person Filing: Saba Capital Management, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership ("Saba Capital"), Saba Capital Management GP, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company ("Saba GP"), and Mr. Boaz R. Weinstein (together, the "Reporting Persons"). The Reporting Persons have entered into a Joint Filing Agreement, dated May 23, 2022, pursuant to which the Reporting Persons have agreed to file this statement and any subsequent amendments hereto jointly in accordance with the provisions of Rule 13d-1(k)(1) under the Act. Any disclosures herein with respect to persons other than the Reporting Persons are made on information and belief after making inquiry to the appropriate party. The filing of this statement should not be construed as an admission that any of the forgoing persons or the Reporting Persons is, for the purposes of Section 13 of the Act, the beneficial owner of the Common Stock reported herein. (b) Address of Principal Business Office or, if None, Residence: The address of the business office of each of the Reporting Persons is 405 Lexington Avenue, 58th Floor, New York, New York 10174. (c) Citizenship: Saba Capital is organized as a limited partnership under the laws of the State of Delaware. Saba GP is organized as a limited liability company under the laws of the State of Delaware. Mr. Weinstein is a citizen of the United States. (d) Title and Class of Securities: Common stock, $0.0001 Par Value (the "Common Stock"). (e) CUSIP No.: 74168P206 Item 3. If this statement is filed pursuant to 240.13d-1(b) or 240.13d-2(b) or (c), check whether the person filing is a: (a) [_] Broker or dealer registered under Section 15 of the Act; (b) [_] Bank as defined in Section 3(a)(6) of the Act; (c) [_] Insurance company as defined in Section 3(a)(19) of the Act; (d) [_] Investment company registered under Section 8 of the Investment Company Act of 1940; (e) [_] An investment adviser in accordance with Rule 13d-1(b)(1)(ii)(E); (f) [_] An employee benefit plan or endowment fund in accordance with Rule 13d-1(b)(1)(ii)(F); (g) [_] A parent holding company or control person in accordance with Rule 13d-1(b)(1)(ii)(G); (h) [_] A savings associations as defined in Section 3(b) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (12 U.S.C. 1813); (i) [_] A church plan that is excluded from the definition of an investment company under section 3(c)(14) of the Investment Company Act of 1940; (j) [_] A non-U.S. institution in accordance with Rule 240.13d-1(b)(1)(ii)(J); (k) [_] Group, in accordance with Rule 240.13d-1(b)(1)(ii)(K). If filing as a non-U.S. institution in accordance with Rule 240.13d-1(b)(1)(ii)(J), please specify the type of institution: ____ Item 4. Ownership (a) Amount Beneficially Owned: The information required by Items 4(a) - (c) is set forth in Rows (5) - (11) of the cover page for each Reporting Person hereto and is incorporated herein by reference for each such Reporting Person. Item 5. Ownership of Five Percent or Less of a Class. If this statement is being filed to report the fact that as of the date hereof the reporting person has ceased to be the beneficial owner of more than 5 percent of the class of securities, check the following [X] Item 6. Ownership of more than Five Percent on Behalf of Another Person. N/A Item 7. Identification and classification of the subsidiary which acquired the security being reported on by the parent holding company or control person. N/A Item 8. Identification and classification of members of the group. N/A Item 9. Notice of Dissolution of Group. N/A Item 10. Certifications. By signing below each Reporting Person certifies that, to the best of his or its knowledge and belief, the securities referred to above were not acquired and are not held for the purpose of or with the effect of changing or influencing the control of the issuer of the securities and were not acquired and are not held in connection with or as a participant in any transaction having that purpose or effect. SIGNATURE After reasonable inquiry and to the best of my knowledge and belief, I certify that the information set forth in this statement is true, complete and correct. Dated: February 8, 2024 /s/ Signature Michael D'Angelo Name: Michael D'Angelo Title: Chief Compliance Officer Boaz R. Weinstein By: Michael D'Angelo Title: Attorney-in-fact*** *** Pursuant to a Power of Attorney dated as of November 16, 2015 CUSIP No.: 91232N207 POWER OF ATTORNEY For executing Schedules 13G and 13D, 13G/D Joint Filing Agreement and Form 13F Each of the undersigned entities represents that the individuals signing on behalf of the entity is duly authorized to do so, and hereby constitutes and appoints Eric Moss, Senior Vice-President, Deputy General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer of Bank of Montreal, Lino Cambone, Vice-President, Deputy General Counsel, Wealth Management & Assistant Corporate Secretary of Bank of Montreal, and George Walz, Senior Vice-President, U.S. Chief Compliance Officer, Bank of Montreal, his or her true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agent with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him or her and in his or her name, place, and stead, in any and all capacities, to: (1) complete and execute for and on behalf of the undersigned filings on Schedules 13G and 13D in accordance with Section 13(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Act) and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, or any successor laws and regulations; (2) complete and execute for and on behalf of the undersigned a joint filing agreement to provide for the joint filing on Schedules 13G or 13D in accordance with Section 13(d) of the Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, or any successor laws and regulations; (3) complete and execute for and on behalf of the undersigned filings on Form 13F as required by Section 13(f) of the Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, or any successor laws and regulations; (4) do and perform any and all acts for and on behalf of the undersigned that may be necessary or desirable to complete the execution of any such Schedules 13G and 13D, joint filing agreement and Forms 13F and the timely filing of such forms and agreements with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission and any other authority; and (5) take any other action of any type whatsoever in connection with the foregoing which, in the opinion of such attorneys-in-fact, may be of benefit to, in the best interest of, or legally required by, the undersigned, it being understood that the documents executed by such attorneys-in-fact on behalf of the undersigned pursuant to the Power of Attorney shall be in such form and shall contain such terms and conditions as such attorneys-in-fact may approve in his or her discretion. Each of the undersigned entities grants to said attorneys-in-fact and agent full power and authority to do and perform each and every act necessary to be done in order to effectuate the same as fully, to all intents and purposes, as it might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agent, or his substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof. The undersigned entities acknowledge that the foregoing attorneys-in-fact, in serving in such capacity at the request of the undersigned, is not assuming any of the undersigneds responsibilities to comply with Section 13(d) of the Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder. This Power of Attorney shall remain in effect until the undersigned entity is no longer required to file Schedules 13G, 13D or Form 13F, unless earlier revoked by a duly authorized officer of the undersigned entity in writing and delivered to the foregoing attorneys-in-fact. This Power of Attorney Signature Page may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be an original, but all of which together shall constitute one instrument. A facsimile or portable document format (.pdf) copy, or an electronic copy by way of reliable electronic signature technology, of the signature of a party to this Power of Attorney on any such counterpart shall be fully effective as in an original signature. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned duly authorized individuals have caused this Power of Attorney to be executed as of February 11, 2022, on behalf of the respective entities. Signatures on following pages. BANK OF MONTREAL EUROPE PUBLIC LIMITED COMPANY By: /s/ Jane Anne Negi______________ Name: Jane Anne Negi Title: Chief Executive Officer By: /s/ Noel Reynolds_______________ Name: Noel Reynolds Title: Chief Finance Officer BMO ASSET MANAGEMENT INC. By: /s/ Ross Kappele ______________ Name: Ross Kappele Title: Head By: /s/ Kevin Gopaul _____________ Name: Kevin Gopaul Title: Head of Exchange Traded Funds BMO ASSET MANAGEMENT CORP. By: /s/ Steven J. Arquilla___________ Name: Steven J. Arquilla Title: Head, U.S. Global Asset Management Governance By: /s/ Pete Andrews_______________ Name: Pete Andrews Title: Head of Operations BMO CAPITAL MARKETS CORP. By: /s/ Brad Rothbaum_____________ Name: Brad Rothbaum Title: Chief Operating Officer BMO CAPITAL MARKETS LIMITED By: /s/ William Smith_____________ Name: William Smith Title: Chief Executive Officer By: /s/ Paula Young______________ Name: Paula Young Title: Company Secretary BMO DIRECT INVEST INC. By: /s/ Karen Messnick___________ Name: Karen Messnick Title: Operations Manager BMO DELAWARE TRUST COMPANY By: /s/ Amy Griman___________________ Name: Amy Griman Title: Chief Executive Officer BMO FAMILY OFFICE, LLC By: /s/ Rob Gray _____________________ Name: Robert Gray Title: Chief Operating Officer BMO FINANCIAL CORP. By: /s/ Darrel Hackett _____________ Name: Darrel Hackett Title: Executive Vice President, and Head, U.S. Wealth Management By: /s/ Michelle Magnaye __________ Name: Michelle Magnaye Title: Assistant Corporate Secretary BMO BANK N.A. By: /s/ Darrel Hackett _______________ Name: Darrel Hackett Title: Executive Vice President, and Head, U.S. Wealth Management BMO INVESTMENTS INC. By: /s/ Ross Kappele _______________ Name: Ross Kappele Title: Head By: /s/ Kevin Gopaul _______________ Name: Kevin Gopaul Title: Head of Exchange Traded Funds BMO INVESTORLINE INC. By: /s/ Deland Kamanga ___________ Name: Deland Kamanga Title: Director By: /s/ Juron Grant-Kinnear___________ Name: Juron Grant-Kinnear Title: Corporate Secretary BMO NESBITT BURNS INC. By: /s/ Deland Kamanga_____________ Name: Deland Kamanga Title: Director By: /s/ Juron Grant-Kinnear__________ Name: Juron Grant-Kinnear Title: Assistant Corporate Secretary BMO NESBITT BURNS SECURITIES LTD. By: /s/ Dave Persaud________________ Name: Devanand (Dave) Persaud Title: Director By: /s/ Victoria Robinson ____________ Name: Victoria Robinson Title: Corporate Secretary BMO PRIVATE EQUITY (CANADA) INC. By: /s/ Serkan Eskinazi_______________ Name: Serkan Eskinazi Title: President By: /s/ Victoria Robinson_____________ Name: Victoria Robinson Title: Corporate Secretary BMO PRIVATE EQUITY (U.S.), INC. By: /s/ _Scott Rubenstein______________ Name: Scott Rubenstein Title: Managing Director BMO PRIVATE INVESTMENT COUNSEL INC. By: /s/ Gilles Ouellette ____________ Name: Gilles Ouellette Title: Director By: /s/ Juron Grant-Kinnear__________ Name: Juron Grant-Kinnear Title: Corporate Secretary CLEARPOOL EXECUTION SERVICES, LLC By: /s/ Brad Rothbaum_______________ Name: Brad Rothbaum Title: Chief Operating Officer BMO TRUST COMPANY By: /s/ Elizabeth Dorsch__________ Name: Elizabeth Dorsch Title: Chief Executive Officer By: /s/ Bruce Ferman ____________ Name: Bruce Ferman Title: Director STOKER OSTLER WEALTH ADVISORS, INC. By: /s/ Michelle L. Decker ________ Name: Michelle L. Decker Title: Chief Operating Officer Lt. Col. Herman Bernard West III, right, poses with his uncle, retired Army Lt. Col. Allen B. West, in this undated photo. (Instagram) A former artillery battalion commander at Joint Base Lewis-McChord pleaded not guilty at a court-martial hearing Thursday to charges of sexual harassment, dereliction of duty, hazing subordinates and conduct unbecoming an officer, according to Army officials. Lt. Col. Herman Bernard West III, 42, was removed Nov. 20 from command of the 1st Battalion, 94th Field Artillery Regiment, 17th Field Artillery Brigade at the joint Army-Air Force installation north of Tacoma, Wash. At the time, the Army gave no reason other than the standard statement that West had lost the confidence of his superiors in his ability to command. He now faces seven charges for violations of the Uniform Code of Military Justice, the militarys legal statutes, including two counts of sexual harassment, three counts of abusing command authority by cruel maltreatment of a subordinate, one count of conduct unbecoming an officer and one count of dereliction of duty. The arraignment on Thursday took place at the military justice facilities at Lewis-McChord. West has a military defense attorney, Capt. Caitlin Quvus. He has also hired Jason Wareham, a Denver-area attorney and former Marine Corps Judge Advocate, to represent him. The case is being prosecuted by Maj. Ryan Keeter and Capt. Bryanna Beauchamp. Lt. Col. Robert Murdough is the judge. West comes from a family active in Republican Party politics. His father, Bernard Herman West Jr., is running for Congress in Georgia in 2024. He previously ran for Congress in 2018, losing to incumbent Democratic Rep. Sanford Bishop Jr. Wests uncle is retired Army Lt. Col. Allen B. West, a field artillery officer who served in Operation Desert Storm in 1991 and the U.S. invasion of Iraq after the 9/11 terrorist attacks. In 2003, Allen West was relieved as commander of an artillery battalion in the 4th Infantry Division following a use-of-force incident against an Iraqi police officer he had detained under suspicion the man knew about terrorist plans to attack American officials, including West. He was allowed to accept nonjudicial punishment for the incident, and he was fined $5,000, demoted to lieutenant colonel and retired from the Army. West became a conservative author, radio host and activist, winning a seat in Congress representing Florida. After one term, he did not run for re-election. He moved to Texas and led an insurgent conservative group seeking to move the state party further to the political right, according to the Dallas Morning News. West was elected state party chairman for 2020-21. He is now running to be chairman of the Dallas County Republican Party. The Army's Future Attack and Reconnaissance Aircraft initiative, which includes the Bell 360 Invictus, is being dropped, according to a Feb. 8, 2024, statement by Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George. (Bell Textron) The U.S. Army is giving up on a scout helicopter development program after spending $2 billion on it, opting instead to pursue more affordable drone alternatives. The decision on the Future Attack and Reconnaissance Aircraft program was prompted by a sober assessment of the modern battlefield, according to an Army statement Thursday. We are learning from the battlefield, especially in Ukraine, that aerial reconnaissance has fundamentally changed, Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George said in the statement. The Army is turning its attention to unmanned aircraft, which have proved to be effective on the battlefield in Ukraine and can be developed more cheaply. Sensors and weapons mounted on a variety of unmanned systems and in space are more ubiquitous, further-reaching and more inexpensive than ever before, George said. A Future Tactical Unmanned Aircraft System is tested at Fort Benning, Ga., in 2021. The Army will accelerate procurement and fielding of modern unmanned systems, according to a Feb. 8, 2024, statement by Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George. (Luke Allen/U.S. Army) The Army will accelerate procurement and fielding of such systems, including the Future Tactical Unmanned Aircraft System, Launched Effects and small commercial drones, George said. The service also will continue to fund the manned Future Long Range Assault Aircraft, which would eventually succeed the UH-60 Black Hawk. Numerous other changes are happening as well. The Army will introduce new spending on the Black Hawk and CH-47F Block II Chinook helicopters. But the plan for the Black Hawk calls for an end to production of the UH-60V version while extending the service life of existing airframes by 10 years. That will free up resources to commit to a new multi-year contract to procure the upgraded UH-60M version of the Black Hawk, the Army said. On the chopping block are the Shadow and Raven unmanned aircraft systems. The Raven is susceptible to jamming, according to prior reports. Both will be phased out because they lack survivability on todays battlefield, the Army said. Staff Sgt. Larry Davis reunites with his children, Parker and Camryn, and wife, Samantha, during a welcome home ceremony for the 3rd Battalion, 197th Field Artillery Regiment on Feb. 8, 2024, at the Manchester, N.H., armory. (Charles Johnston, New Hampshire National Guard) The rocket battalion has landed safely back home. The New Hampshire Army National Guard HIMARS (high mobility rocket system) battalion completed a nine-month rotation in support of Operations Spartan Shield and Inherent Resolve. Nearly 270 soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 197th Field Artillery Regiment reunited with family and friends Thursday during a welcome home ceremony at the Manchester, N.H., armory. The unit included a battery of 84 Guard soldiers from Michigan. 1st Lt. Arnold Estrada gives his girlfriend, 1st Lt. Kaylee McGlasson, a lei at a welcome home ceremony for the 3rd Battalion, 197th Field Artillery Regiment on Feb. 8, 2024, at the Manchester, N.H., armory. Estrada transferred from the Hawaii National Guard (Charles Johnston, New Hampshire National Guard) Parker Davis, 5. awaits the arrival of his father, Staff Sgt. Larry Davis, during a a welcome home ceremony for the 3rd Battalion, 197th Field Artillery Regiment on Feb. 8, 2024, at the Manchester, N.H., armory. (Charles Johnston, New Hampshire National Guard) Mehmet Tulunbike reunites with wife, Kirsten, and daughter, Sierra, at a welcome home ceremony for the 3rd Battalion, 197th Field Artillery Regiment on Feb. 8, 2024, at the Manchester, N.H., armory. (Charles Johnston, New Hampshire National Guard) New Hampshire Guard troops reunite with friends and family at a a welcome home ceremony for the 3rd Battalion, 197th Field Artillery Regiment on Feb. 8, 2024, at the Manchester, N.H., armory. (Charles Johnston, New Hampshire National Guard) Sgt. 1st Class John Nedeau and fiancee Katie Crisman embrace during a a welcome home ceremony for the 3rd Battalion, 197th Field Artillery Regiment on Feb. 8, 2024, at the Manchester, N.H., armory. (Charles Johnston, New Hampshire National Guard) Spc. Maria Cioto reunites with boyfriend, Dan Post, during a a welcome home ceremony for the 3rd Battalion, 197th Field Artillery Regiment on Feb. 8, 2024, at the Manchester, N.H., armory. (Charles Johnston, New Hampshire National Guard) New Hampshire Guardsmen reunite with friends and family at a a welcome home ceremony for the 3rd Battalion, 197th Field Artillery Regiment on Feb. 8, 2024, at the Manchester, N.H., armory. (Charles Johnston, New Hampshire National Guard) Exterior shot of Savan Pointe apartments The former Stratford Arms Arms apartment complex at 126 and 210 Tibet Ave. on Savannah's south side has been upgraded and renamed the Savan Pointe Townhomes East and West. The property sold Jan. 26, for $14.9 million to Tibet Ave, LLC. The two-bedroom townhome rental community was built in 1967, according to Chatham County Property Records, and rents for each unit are advertised on Apartments.com at $1,570 per month. According to the latest rental report from ApartmentList.com, rents in Savannah increased 1.2% between December 2023 and January 2024, representing a .02% year-over-year increase. The median rent for a one-bedroom rental in Savannah now is just over $1,200; for a two-bedroom, median rents hover around the $1,400 mark. Per the most recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey, the media household income for January in Savannah is $53,258, meaning the most in rent someone at that salary level could afford in monthly rent or mortgage payments without becoming cost-burdened is $1,331. Search here for more property transfers in Bryan, Chatham and Effingham counties This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: Property transfers for the week of February 9 2024 Prosecutors, not police, decide charges under the Japanese justice system. (Akifumi Ishikawa/Stars and Stripes) MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan Japanese police have referred two unnamed Marines from this base south of Hiroshima to local prosecutors in connection with separate incidents last year. One case involves a Marine suspected of trespassing and bodily injury; another involves a Marine suspected of theft, an Iwakuni police spokesman told Stars and Stripes by phone Tuesday. Both cases were forwarded to the Yamaguchi Public Prosecutors Office, he said. Prosecutors, not police, decide charges under the Japanese justice system. Police do not publicly identify suspects unless they are still in custody, the spokesman said without providing further details. Some government officials in Japan may speak to the media only on condition of anonymity. No decision had been made on either case, a spokesman for the prosecutors office said by phone Tuesday. We are aware of the allegations and are fully cooperating with local Japanese authorities as appropriate, Maj. Roberto Martins, spokesman for the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, said by email Thursday. We take all allegations of misconduct seriously. Martins would not identify the accused Marines. Yamaguchi Broadcasting reported that a 67-year-old man scuffled with a U.S. service member following a break-in at a store in Iwakuni on Nov. 18. The victim sustained serious injuries, such as bruises to his body and a cut on his head, the report said. The service member was taken away by other Americans. The other Marine is accused of stealing items, including a bag, from a parked vehicle in Iwakuni city on Nov. 2, according to local TV station YAB. The alleged actions go against our values and we expect our service members to be upstanding members of the community, Martins said. Marines dump water onto Col. Matthew Danner, commander of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, during a fundraiser at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, April 28, 2023. (Elijah Murphy/U.S. Marine Corps) CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa With the rainy season three months away and Okinawas reservoirs already running low, the local government is urging the islands U.S. military population to conserve water. Okinawas 11 reservoirs are at half their capacity, on average, when they should be more than three-quarters full, according to a spokesman from Okinawas Prefectural Enterprise Bureau, which manages the islands water supply. Service members are asked to monitor water usage closely, to not leave water running and to refrain from watering lawns and washing cars. Conservation now may spare stricter measures later, a spokeswoman for Marine Corps Installations Pacific, 2nd Lt. Kelsey Enlow, told Stars and Stripes by email Friday. We hope everyone is responsible with their water on the front end, so restrictions dont have to go in place on the back end, she said. According to the enterprise bureau spokesman, the reservoirs together were 26.8% lower than average for Feb. 9; for the past 10 years, they averaged 77.4% full. We are doing everything we can to maintain the water level in the reservoirs, so we do not have to place restrictions on the water supply, he said by phone Thursday. It is difficult to predict if we need to implement restrictions, he said. It depends on rainfall and the amount of water people use. Its customary in Japan for some government officials to speak to media on condition of anonymity. The prefectural government contacted the Marines informally to discuss how the bases could reduce water usage, Enlow said. From those discussions, we are working to send out messages and infographics to our Marines on ways they can reduce water usage, she said. Currently, there are no restrictions to water usage at U.S. bases on Okinawa. Nine of the 11 dams that provide Okinawa with drinking water are overseen by the national government; the prefecture maintains the remining two. The island also has the Seawater Desalination Center in Chatan, near Camp Foster. Okinawa is composed primarily of coral and does not hold water as well as soil does. Its main water supply is its reservoirs, desalination plant, typhoons and the annual six-week rainy season, which typically lasts from mid-May to late-June. As of Friday morning, the nine government-run dams were at 50.8% capacity, the prefectural Kurashiki dam at 48.1% and Yamashiro dam at 50.5%, according to the enterprise bureau. The 2023 rainy season provided far less rainfall than above-average seasons in 2021 and 2022. Naha, the prefectural capital, saw 18.4 inches between May 18 and June 24, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. That was far below the 42.2 inches that fell during the same period in 2022. In Nago, 16.6 inches fell between May 18 and June 24, well below the 47.4 in 2022. Only one significant rain occurred on Okinawa last summer. Typhoon Khanun, which passed the island twice between Aug. 1 and Aug. 10, filled the islands reservoirs to near capacity, but no significant amount of rain has fallen since then. We want to be good guests to our hosts on Okinawa, Enlow said. We encourage our Marines to use water responsibly. Lt. j.g. Dom Restivo, right, and Ensign Ethan Margot stand watch aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS John Finn during an exercise with the Australian and Japanese navies in the South China Sea, Feb. 7, 2024. (Justin Stack/U.S. Navy) A flotilla of U.S., Australian and Japanese warships recently trained together for two days in the South China Sea, an operation that coincided with several large-scale exercises underway in the region. The guided-missile destroyer USS John Finn and littoral combat ship USS Gabrielle Giffords joined the Japanese destroyer JS Sazanami and the Australian frigate HMAS Warramunga for drills Wednesday and Thursday, U.S. 7th Fleet spokeswoman Lt. Kristina Wiedemann said by email Friday. The short exercise allowed the ships to operate together over a sustained period of time across a large area to sustain and improve their ability to work together, according to Wiedemann who did not identify where in the South China Sea the drills took place. These operations tested our ships ability to communicate, maneuver and organize as a seamlessly integrated trilateral force, she said. The guided-missile destroyer USS John Finn sails with the Japanese destroyer JS Sazanami and Australian frigate HMAS Warramunga in the South China Sea, Feb. 7, 2024 (Justin Stack/U.S. Navy) The South China Sea is the stage for sometimes aggressive moves by Beijing to assert its claim of maritime sovereignty there against other claimants, including the Philippines, another U.S. ally, and Vietnam. The U.S. Navy also trained with an ally, the Philippine navy, in the South China Sea in early January, two months after they resumed mutual patrols there in November, Bloomberg News reported Jan. 3. Chinese and Philippine coast guard vessels squared off in 2023 over access to Scarborough Shoal, a low-tide feature occupied by a Philippine garrison. The most recent maneuvers took place with two larger exercises underway in the region. In Japan and Hawaii, the command post exercise Keen Edge brought together U.S., Japanese and Australian military forces for crisis and contingency computer simulation training. The weeklong exercise concluded Thursday. On Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, 2,000 miles east of the South China Sea, the three-week Cope North runs until Feb. 23. The exercise in aerial warfare includes U.S., Australian and Japanese forces, along with those from Canada, France and South Korea. The two-day maneuvers in the South China Sea last week were not part of the other exercises, according to Wiedemann. Every day, U.S. Navy forces operate with allies and partners, defending the rules-based international order and ensuring the Indo-Pacific remains free and open for all, she said. An aerial view of U.S. Naval Base Guam shows several vessels moored in Apra Harbor, March 15, 2018. (Stacy Laseter/U.S. Navy) A second, larger contingent of Australian sailors is training alongside U.S. counterparts on Guam as part of an agreement to create a nuclear-powered submarine force for the Australian navy. Australia sent 37 officers and enlisted personnel to Naval Base Guam to train aboard the submarine tender USS Emory S. Land, according to a Feb. 4 news release from the countrys Department of Defence. The training program falls under the AUKUS pact, an agreement by Australia, the United Kingdom and United States to build eight nuclear-powered submarines for Australia by the 2030s at a cost of about $240 billion over 30 years. A rotating force of U.S. and U.K. submarines is expected to establish itself in Australia by 2027 as part of the plan. The opportunity for our Navy personnel to learn from our AUKUS partners demonstrates meaningful progress along Australias pathway to acquiring nuclear-powered submarines, Defence Minister Richard Marles said in the release. Three Australian navy officers graduated on Jan. 12 from the U.S. Navys six-month prerequisite Nuclear Power Training Unit in Goose Creek, S.C. They advanced to the Navys basic submarine officer course. This larger group will spend approximately five months with sailors from the U.S. vessel, learning to maintain submarines, the release said. The skills, knowledge and experience gained in Guam alongside our United States Navy partners will afford our people the opportunity to undertake some of the most complex maintenance on a United States [nuclear submarine], Australian Chief of the Navy Vice Adm. Mark Hammond said in the release. Attempts to contact a spokesman for the Emory S. Land by phone were unsuccessful Friday. The experience, the release said, will allow Australias navy to support its first planned maintenance on a U.S. nuclear submarine during a visit to HMAS Stirling, the navy base in Western Australia, later this year. AUKUS was established to counter Chinese expansionism in the Western Pacific. Several attack submarines have visited Western Australia in the past year as part of the pact. Gilles in masks dance through the streets each year in Binche, Belgium, on Shrove Tuesday. This year, thats Feb. 13. (iStock) Ask a kid to name his or her favorite holidays, and theres a good chance Halloween will come out near or at the top of the list. And whats not to love about a date that promises the chance to dress up like a cartoon hero or fairy-tale princess AND collect a bagful of candy? Small wonder, then, that Fasching, Fasnacht, Carnival or the myriad other names it goes by is so enduringly popular among youngsters. And when the grownups also dress up and get into the act, youve got a day out that cant help but make a big impression. To see a childs eyes grow a mile wide, consider attending one of these events: Childrens parades: Many German carnival stronghold cities hold events specifically geared toward children. Mainz, Germany, is the site of whats billed as Europes largest child and youth parade, which sets forth from the city center at 2:11 p.m. on Feb. 10. Duesseldorf also stages a child and youth parade that begins at the Goerres-Gymnasium at 2 p.m. on Feb. 10 and winds up at the Burgplatz. Children in Wiesbaden will converge upon Luisenplatz from 3:33 p.m. on Feb. 10. The parade concludes with the traditional storming of the Rathaus, or City Hall. Aachens youth will set off from Oppenhoffallee at 11:11 a.m. on Feb. 11. Free candy! As those riding on board carnival floats throw candies and other trinkets in the direction of the spectators lining the streets, minor melees ensue as kids scramble to pick up whatever treats they can lay their hands on. These parades include the following events scheduled for Feb. 11: (from 11:55 a.m. in Wuerzburg; from 12:11 p.m. in Wiesbaden); Rose Monday, Feb. 12: (from 10 a.m. in Cologne; from 11:11 a.m. in Aachen; from 11:11 a.m. in Mainz; from 1:11 p.m. in Ludwigshafen) or Feb. 13: (from 2:11 p.m. in Heidelberg). Burning effigies: Many celebrations conclude by burning an effigy symbolizing the excesses of all the festivities that came before. In the suburbs of Cologne, Germany namely Nippes, Ehrenfeld and Muelheim the last day of carnival (Feb. 13) includes the burning of the Nubbel, a scarecrow-like figure built of straw, in front of local pubs and other public spaces. Online: koeln.de/karneval/veilchendienstag-koeln International Kids carnival: In Venice, Italy, the folks behind the Biennale di Venezia work hard to ensure kids are included in the carnival festivities held throughout the month of February. Through Feb. 11, children and their elders can enjoy theater workshops and more at the citys Teatro Piccolo Arsenale and Ca Giustinian-San Marco, as well as at the Parco Albenese, Bissuola in Mestre. Preregistration is required and can be done online at labiennale.org. Boat races: The city of Schramberg, Germany, celebrates its carnival with a type of crazy boat race known as the Da-Bach-Na-Fahrt. At 1 p.m. on Rose Monday, Feb. 12, 40 or so decorated two-man craft will take to the waters of a stream known as the Bach Berneck, their mission to navigate a 500-meter section of the waterway in the fastest time possible without going overboard. The purchase of an armband is the key to admission, and will also get one into the carnival parade immediately following. Online: bach-na-fahrt.de A thousand identically dressed marchers: The carnival in Binche, Belgium, stars some of carnivals strangest personalities, namely the Gilles. On Shrove Tuesday, Feb. 13, men wearing straw-padded red, black and yellow suits and white bow-tie collars, wax masks with glasses drawn on and wooden clogs will clomp and dance to the sound of a drum, waving sticks to ward off evil spirits as they go. On their second round through town, theyll be wearing hats adorned with ostrich feathers and carry baskets of oranges which they toss, sometimes a bit too energetically, toward the spectators. Its considered bad form and bad luck to toss the citrus back their way. Online: tinyurl.com/za3uhmcn A massive food fight: Oranges also play a central role in the carnival of Ivrea, a city in northern Italy. The carnivals origins are steeped in a legend that recounts the rape of a millers daughter by a tyrant of noble lineage on the eve of her wedding. After the young lady managed to cut his head off, an affronted populace stormed the palace and burned it to the ground. This liberation is commemorated by means of the Battle of the Oranges, in which teams of orange throwers on foot take on those positioned in carts. Tourists can also get in on the act by joining one of the nine combat teams. The battles take place at 2 p.m. on Feb. 11, 12 and 13. Online: storicocarnevaleivrea.it Fools jump: The Black Forest town of Rottweil, Germany, adheres to an age-old tradition known as the Narrensprung, or Fools Jump. In their traditional dress of shirt, sash and gloves of white bedecked with colorful capes and bells, these figures wearing carved wooden masks passed down through the generations carry poles that serve as pogo sticks of sorts, allowing them to jump and cavort to the delight of the gathered crowds. The Narrensprung takes place at 8 a.m. on Feb. 12 and at 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Feb. 13. Tickets are necessary; these go for 10 euros adults and 5 euros for children. Online: narrenzunft-rottweil.de Jair Bolsonaro at Alvorada Palace on Nov. 1, 2022, in Brasilia, Brazil. (Andressa Anholete, Getty Images/TNS) RIO DE JANEIRO Former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro has been named a target in a federal investigation into whether his government plotted a military takeover of the country, police officials told The Washington Post on Thursday, and has been given 24 hours to surrender his passport. The revelation came as federal police launched a large search-and-seizure operation early Thursday that targeted some of Bolsonaros closest advisers and aides, including former justice minister Anderson Torres and Bolsonaros running mate, Walter Braga Netto. The announcement sent political shock waves through Latin Americas largest country, still reckoning with an attack by thousands of Bolsonaro supporters on its most important federal buildings early last year after a historically divisive presidential election. It also brought closer the prospect that Brazil could again witness the prosecution of a former president. Since Bolsonaro lost to Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in the 2022 presidential election and left office, he and his allies have fended off probes and allegations of corruption that have included lying to U.S. authorities about Bolsonaros vaccination status, improper handling of state jewelry and using government surveillance to spy on opponents. But the most significant has long been an investigation, overseen by Brazils supreme court, into whether the Bolsonaro government planned to subvert Brazilian democracy and maintain its grip on power despite the outcome of the 2022 vote. On Thursday, federal officials revealed fresh findings of the investigation. Two police officials, who spoke to The Post on the condition of anonymity to candidly discuss the probe, said the plot to steal power was far more advanced than previously known. It involved logistical and tactical planning and entailed the involvement of the most senior officials in the Brazilian government. For months before the election, Bolsonaro and his top allies made unsubstantiated allegations in public and on social media that the Brazilian electoral system had been stained by fraud and could no longer be trusted. Police now say those remarks were part of a plot to provide political cover for a military takeover if the election didnt go their way. Police say Bolsonaro officials also undertook logistical and tactical planning, in coordination with military officials, to execute the takeover. The court order that authorized Thursdays operation, obtained by The Post, highlighted a proposed executive decree that had been circulating among senior Bolsonaro officials. The decree, which had earlier been found in the possession of the former justice minister, authorized a military takeover and the arrest of two supreme court justices and the president of the Brazilian Senate. Bolsonaro, the court order said, was more than aware of the decree. He was granted access to it and made edits. Police on Thursday ordered Bolsonaro, who has been staying at his beach house near the coastal city of Angra dos Reis, to refrain from any contact with aides under investigation. Bolsonaro denied the allegations, saying he was the victim of political prosecution. I left office more than a year ago, and Im still suffering implacable prosecution, he was quoted as saying by the Folha de S.Paulo newspaper. Forget me, he added. You now have another person governing the country. Thursdays operation and revelations are sure to inflame political polarization in Brazil, which remains bitterly divided over Bolsonaros presidency and what role he played in the January 2023 attack in Brasilia. Bolsonaros son, Flavio, a Brazilian senator, called the operation a fishing expedition and an attempt to destroy the right. Lula, in a radio interview during a visit to Minas Gerais state on Thursday, said he didnt doubt Bolsonaros involvement in the alleged plan to militarily take over the country. It couldnt have happened without him, the president said. His behavior was so strange. Before the elections, he spent the entire time lying about the election, about the vote, casting suspicion on a process that elected him in 2018. It was a tactic. (Tribune News Service) A former U.S. government informant was sentenced Friday to life in prison after pleading guilty to conspiring to kill Haitis president and admitting that he attended strategic meetings before the assassination in 2021. Joseph Vincent, 58, a Haitian American, became the fourth of 11 defendants to be sentenced to life in the Miami federal case for his supporting role in the murder plot spanning South Florida, Haiti and Colombia. Vincent is cooperating with federal prosecutors by providing evidence of the meetings, logistics and actions of some of the other co-defendants who still face trial. Vincent spoke few words during the brief sentencing hearing, only saying to U.S. District Judge Jose Martinez: Please excuse me for what I have done. At his plea hearing in December, Vincent admitted in a statement filed with his plea agreement that he met with a group of co-conspirators in Haiti on the eve of the assassination of President Jovenel Moise on July 7, 2021. The factual statement was signed by Vincent, his attorney, Kenneth Swartz, and prosecutors. The statement said he wore a U.S. State Department pin to make himself look official to his Haitian counterparts. He also participated in a plan to stir up protests against Haitis leader and use them as a cover to remove Moise by force using weapons. The statement also says he joined other co-conspirators in a vehicle that drove to the presidents home outside Port-au-Prince when a group of Colombian commandos killed him during the nighttime ambush. Vincent pleaded guilty to conspiring to provide material support in the assassination, providing that support, and conspiring to kill or kidnap a person outside the United States. At the plea hearing, federal prosecutor Frank Russo highlighted Vincents role in the murder conspiracy: Vincent provided advice to his co-conspirators about the Haitian political landscape, attended meetings with important Haitian political and community leaders, and frequently wore a U.S. State Department pin, which had the effect of leading others to believe that he was employed by the U.S. State Department. Vincent, a former informant with the Drug Enforcement Administration, is expected to be a key cooperating witness against other indicted co-conspirators, including fellow Haitian American James Solages. Solages is accused of collaborating with CTU Security, a Doral-based company owned and operated by Antonio Intriago, a defendant in the case who met with Solages in South Florida and in Haiti before Moises assassination. Solages also drove the vehicle with top Colombian commandos, Vincent and others to the presidents home for the deadly attack, court records show. And Solages yelled it was a DEA operation as the assault was unfolding that night, a claim that authorities have denied. Solages has pleaded not guilty to the murder conspiracy charges. Vincent is also expected to provide inside information on Christian Sanon, a Haitian physician and pastor who was initially proposed as the successor to Moise before the plotters abandoned him in June 2021 in favor of a member of the Haitian Supreme Court. Sanon, 65, has pleaded not guilty to conspiracy charges accusing him of smuggling ballistic vests to the Colombian commandos in Haiti and to carry out a military expedition against a foreign country. In addition to Vincent, four other defendants have admitted to their supporting roles in the slaying of Haitis president. A sixth defendant, Frederick Bergmann, 65, of Tampa, is charged with the same offenses as Sanon. But in a deal with prosecutors, Bergmann pleaded guilty Friday to two conspiracy counts: backing a military expedition against a friendly nation and violating U.S. export laws by smuggling bullet-proof vests to the Colombians in Haiti. Three related counts will be dismissed as part of his cooperation agreement with prosecutors. Bergmann, an accountant represented by attorney Henry Bell, faces up to 10 years in prison at his sentencing in April. Others connected to the assassination In October, former Haitiian Sen. Joseph Joel John pleaded guilty to the murder conspiracy and related charges in the killing of Haitis leader and in December was sentenced to life in prison. Hes also cooperating with prosecutors. Johns goal was to become the prime minister under Moises successor following the leaders removal from office, according to court records. John, 52, acknowledged to FBI agents that he had met with some co-conspirators just before they embarked on the mission to kill President Moise at his suburban home, according to court records. John admitted that he helped obtain rental vehicles, made introductions to Haitian gang members and tried to get firearms for the co-conspirators operation targeting the president, according to his statement filed with his plea agreement. John attended meetings in South Florida and Haiti with the main suspects and tried to acquire weapons and ammunition for them, according to the statement and other court records. Hes believed to have been a link between the various groups. On the night of the killing, he was in communication with several suspects. In addition, retired Colombian army officer German Alejandro Rivera Garcia, aka Colonel Mike, 45, admitted that he met with several co-conspirators from Haiti and South Florida before leading a group of former Colombian soldiers to the Haitian presidents home to kill him. In October, Rivera was sentenced to life in prison, but he is hoping to get his sentence reduced with cooperation. A former Colombian soldier, Mario Antonio Palacios Palacios, 45, who was at the presidents home on the night of the slaying, also pleaded guilty in December to the main murder conspiracy charge and faces up to life in prison. Haitian businessman Rodolphe Jaar, 51, admitted to providing weapons, lodging and money in the conspiracy to assassinate Haitis president. A dual Haitian and Chilean citizen, Jaar was sentenced in June to life in prison but is hoping to get his prison term decreased with cooperation. He had previously been convicted of drug trafficking in the United States. 2024 Miami Herald. Visit miamiherald.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. The Associated Press assistant general manager for news photos Hal Buell, center, and Dave Herbert, right, the consultant who wrote the electronic darkroom software, explain PhotoStream at the American Newspaper Publishers Association technical convention in Las Vegas in June 1987. Buell, who led The Associated Press photo operations from the darkroom era into the age of digital photography over a four-decade career with the news organization that included 12 Pulitzer Prizes and running some of the defining images of the Vietnam War, has died. Buell died Monday, Jan. 29, 2024, in Sunnyvale, Calif., where his daughter lived, after battling pneumonia. He was 92. (AP) Hal Buell, a giant in the field of photojournalism who began his long career at Stars and Stripes before joining The Associated Press, died Jan. 29 in Sunnyvale, Calif. He was 92. Buell led APs photo operations from the darkroom era into the age of digital photography over a four-decade career with the news organization that included 12 Pulitzer Prizes and some of the defining images of the Vietnam War. Buell earned bachelors and masters degrees in journalism from Northwestern University in 1954 before he joined APs Tokyo bureau on a part-time basis. He was still in the Army at the time, working for Stars and Stripes. Out of the Army in 1956, he joined APs Chicago bureau as a radio writer, and in 1957, was promoted to the photo desk in APs New York office. Buell returned to Tokyo at the end of the decade to be supervisory photo editor for Asia and came back to New York in 1963 to be APs photo projects editor. He became executive news photo editor in 1968 and in 1977 he was named assistant general manager for news photos. His record with Stars and Stripes is slim, but in 1960 his name appeared on its pages once more, this time as part of the story. A group of students in Seoul had ransacked the former home of South Korean Vice President-elect Ki Pong Lee, Syngman Rhees running mate and a symbol of fraud at the polls. The students discovered an American flag and placed it on the ground, being careful not to step on it, Buell said in a brief AP report. Then they saw me. One stood and rolled up the flag and gave it to me, he said in the article published April 28, 1960. As the editor in charge of APs photo operations from the late 1960s to the 1990s, he supervised a staff that won a dozen Pulitzers and included legendary AP photographers including Eddie Adams, Horst Faas and Nick Ut. Buell made the crucial decision in 1972 to run Uts photo of a naked young girl fleeing her burning village after napalm was dropped on it by South Vietnamese air force aircraft. The image of Kim Phuc became one of the most haunting images of the Vietnam War and came to define for many all that was misguided about the war. After the image was transmitted from Saigon to AP headquarters in New York, Buell examined it closely and discussed it with other editors for about 10 minutes before deciding to run it. We didnt have any objection to the picture because it was not prurient. Yes, nudity but not prurient in any sense of the word, Buell said in a 2016 interview. It was the horror of war. It was innocence caught in the crossfire, and it went right out, and of course it became a lasting icon of that war, of any war, of all wars. Without Buells support, Ut said, the photo might never have become a symbol of the war. It won Ut the Pulitzer Prize. Buell is survived by his daughter Barbara Buell and her husband, Thomas Radcliffe, as well as two grandchildren and a great-grandson. Contributing: Stars and Stripes reporter Joseph Ditzler; The Associated Press. Will McKelvey, MBA 23 (right), met with 43 founders in five days on a cross-country trip to Berkeley in 2021 with his college roommate. McKelvey was planning on pursuing venture capital at Haas. He now works at VC fund Lerer Hippeau. UC-Berkeley photo From Berkeley, California: Before Will McKelvey arrived to enroll in the full-time MBA program at Berkeley Haas in 2021, he and his college roommate drove cross-country to California. Along the way, McKelvey, who was planning a career in venture capital, met with as many startups as possiblea whopping 43 founders in five days. McKelvey, an Ohio native, even launched a blog sharing his impressions of venture opportunities from Dayton to Detroit to Chicago. You cant dabble in VC, McKelvey, MBA 23, who became interested in the economic power of startups while working for Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna for four years, said. If you decide its your thing, go all in. Its not a space for tourists. At Haas, McKelvey didnt let up, interning at multiple venture firms and serving as co-president of the Haas VC Club. Now an investor at early-stage VC fund Lerer Hippeau, McKelvey is among a record number of 2023 Berkeley Haas MBA graduates working in the field of venture capital. VC is the second-biggest sector for finance jobs among our MBAs, said William Rindfuss, a member of the Haas Professional Faculty who leads strategic programs for the finance faculty group and manages financial services recruiting at Haas. Only investment banking drew more recent grads. Read more The 2024 Outstanding Case Teacher Award goes to Euvin Naidoo, professor of practice for global accounting, risk and agility at Thunderbird School of Global Management, is the winner of the 2024 Outstanding Case Teacher Competition. Case Centre photo From London: On the annual World Case Teaching Day, the Case Centre reveals Euvin Naidoo, distinguished professor of practice for global accounting, risk and agility at Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University, as the winner of the 2024 Outstanding Case Teacher Competition. Story continues Euvins teaching at Thunderbird focuses on accounting, risk, board governance, agility, digital transformation and artificial intelligence. In January 2024, he launched Thunderbirds inaugural program on artificial intelligence, AI and the Future of Work. A firm believer in learning by doing, Euvin uses cutting edge digital tables to deliver a high-impact case experience for his programmes. Students work to engage in a case and synthesise information in real time and deliver insights as part of a learn by walking around philosophy, inspired by Peter Drucker. Euvin regularly uses roleplay in his case teaching to simulate workplace and boardroom scenarios, with a focus on also having participants develop a skill set to ask the right questions. He is perfectly placed to do so, drawing on his experiences as former Managing Director and Partner for the Boston Consulting Groups Banking and Public Sector Practices across Africa with a focus on innovation, digital transformation, agility, ESG, risk and controls. Euvin is also Director of the Thunderbird Case Series. Researched and developed by faculty, the cases are used in Thunderbird degree programs and executive education environments to illustrate real-world global management occurrences, and initiate deep analysis and professor/student discussion of causes and solutions. Read more From left, Nikhil Khurana, Sarah Cohen, Nick Rojas, and Alex Reid are the student co-chairs for the ClimateCAP 2024 MBA Summit held at the Ross School of Business in Ann Arbor, Michigan February 9-10. Ross photos Meet the Michigan Ross student co-chairs hosting ClimateCAP 2024 From Ann Arbor, Michigan: The ClimateCAP Initiative is a global partnership of more than 40 schools dedicated to preparing MBA students to take on the climate crisis challenges of today and tomorrow. Each year, the ClimateCAP Initiative hosts a summit event that brings together students and business leaders from across the country and the world to discuss how climate change is impacting the global economy, as well as what actions businesses could take to mitigate risk and make meaningful change. Michigan Ross will be hosting this years event, which was put together by a student planning team, three faculty advisors from the Erb Institute, and four student co-chairs leading the organizational effort. Read more DONT MISS THE NO. 1 ONLINE MBA PROGRAM IN THE U.S. TURNS 25 THIS YEAR The post Record VC Hires In This Top B-Schools 2023 MBA Class appeared first on Poets&Quants. Denmarks defense minister signaled increased urgency regarding risks posed by Russia after new data suggested Moscows capacity to produce military equipment has increased tremendously, according to an interview with Jyllands-Posten. Troels Lund Poulsen cited an assessment based on new intelligence about the security threat, the newspaper said. Russia may be able to attack a member of the NATO defense bloc within three to five years, he was quoted as saying by the newspaper, in line with earlier estimates by western intelligence agencies. The Danish defense minister, who emphasized that theres no direct military threat to Denmark, made the comments after a meeting with European colleagues and a visit to Poland last week, where he said counterparts had conveyed similar worries. The members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization are increasingly concerned about Russias ability to rapidly ramp up weapons production as its economy has shifted to a war footing. Russia is expected to produce 3.5 million units of artillery ammunition this year, according to Estonian estimates. By contrast, Europe is expected to be able to produce around 1.4 million shells by the end of the year. Other Nordic officials have in past weeks made statements highlighting the changed threat assessments. Swedens civil defense minister, Carl-Oskar Bohlin, said last month there could be a war in Sweden a comment that caused widespread public furor in the largest Nordic country thats on the verge of becoming the alliances 32 member. Admiral Rob Bauer, who chairs NATOs Military Committee, on Tuesday said the realization that the West has entered into a new era of collective defense needs to sink in on a societal level, speaking at a conference in Oslo. In many allied nations on the eastern flank, the Russian threat is felt very clear, but in countries with a different geographical position that has not happened yet, Bauer said. But thats why so many military and political voices are speaking out now about the need to prepare. With assistance from Niclas Rolander and Natalia Drozdiak. 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Army chief Oleksandr Syrskyi was appointed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy chose to succeed Valeriy Zaluzhnyi. (Andrew Kravchenko/Bloomberg) Ukraines new top general weighed in on his priorities a day after the biggest military shakeup in Kyiv since the war with Russia began, stressing the need to improve planning, embrace technological advances and master drone warfare. Army chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, whom President Volodymyr Zelenskyy chose to succeed Valeriy Zaluzhnyi after dismissing the popular chief commander, laid out the rough outline in a post on Telegram Friday. Hes expected to introduce his new team in the coming days. The introduction of new technical solutions and the scaling of successful experience, including drones and radio-electronic technology, is one of the future vectors of building victory in our war of liberation, Syrskyi said in his first comments since the appointment. Zelenskyys reshuffle comes at a delicate moment, after Ukraines military failed in a counteroffensive to press back Russias invasion force last year and now is running low on ammunition funds. Commander of Ukraines ground forces in his previous role, Syrskyi is credited with helping defend Kyiv during the first phase of the invasion and the liberation of a swathe of the Kharkiv region later in 2022. Zelenskyy referred to him as Ukraines most experienced commander. Written in bureaucratic prose, Syrskyis message lists the need for more precise and clear management at all levels of the military hierarchy as the most urgent priority and emphasizes Ukraines need for modern weapons. Syrskyi, who has a reputation as a military hardliner and a strict commander, said sparing the lives of servicemen will remain a central value. This, he said, can be achieved by seeking balance between executing combat tasks and letting troops recover and receive necessary training. With assistance from Volodymyr Verbianyi. 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Kenyan Minister of Defense Aden Duale meet at the Pentagon on Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024. (Eugene Oliver/Department of Defense) WASHINGTON The Pentagon has completed its internal review of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austins failure to notify the president and other U.S. officials about his prostate cancer and subsequent hospitalization for complications from surgery. The review has been submitted to Secretary Austin and he is in the process of reviewing it, Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, the Pentagons top spokesman, told reporters Thursday. Much of the report is classified since it relates to continuity of operations. However, as the secretary has said, we remain committed to being as transparent as possible about the review and well have more information once the secretarys review is complete. Ryder provided no other details, including whether the 30-day review includes any recommendations for disciplinary actions. Austin will make his first trip since his hospitalization next week with Air Force Gen. Charles CQ Brown, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. They will travel to Brussels for an in-person meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group on Feb. 14, the day that Austin was to appear before the House Armed Services Committee to testify about why his recent hospital stay was kept secret from lawmakers and other top officials. The House hearing has since been rescheduled to Feb. 29 and Austin will testify, Ryder said Thursday. Austin apologized last week for failing to disclose his prostate cancer diagnosis, the surgery that followed, and complications that led to an extended hospital stay. I want to be crystal clear, we did not handle this right. I did not handle this right, he told reporters at the Pentagon. I should have told the president about my cancer diagnosis. I should have told my team and the American people, and I take full responsibility. Austin returned to the Pentagon on Jan. 29 after being absent for nearly a month because of his cancer and complications from the surgery. The secretary was released from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., on Jan. 15 after spending two weeks there following the surgery, which was conducted Dec. 22. Austin has come under scrutiny after he failed to notify President Joe Biden and other government officials about his illness and hospitalization. During a regular health screening in early December, Austins cancer was detected. He was admitted to the hospital about three weeks later for surgery, which required general anesthesia. He left the hospital the following morning. On Jan. 1, Austin returned to Walter Reed after experiencing pain in his abdomen, hip and leg. He was later found to have a urinary tract infection, and Austin spent days in the intensive care unit before he was moved to a private section of the hospital. But during Austins medical treatments, no one at the Defense Department notified the White House, Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks, Congress or the public for several days. On Jan. 2, Austin transferred some of his more pressing responsibilities to Hicks. Austin said last week that he was experiencing fever, chills and shallow breathing on that day and doctors decided to move him to the intensive care unit for several days of close monitoring. Yet Biden did not learn of Austins prostate cancer until Jan. 9. That same day, the White House ordered all Cabinet members or secretaries must immediately notify the administration if at any time they cannot perform their duties. The secretary said last week he did not direct anyone on his staff to conceal information about his health. Austin said he has apologized to Biden for not immediately disclosing his diagnosis and treatment. The militarys shortage of mental health workers and an increase in demand for care has forced troops to seek help off base and sometimes wait a month for appointments, according to a Government Accountability Office report released Feb. 6, 2024. (Defense Department) The militarys shortage of mental health workers and an increase in demand for care has forced troops to seek help off base and sometimes wait a month for appointments, according to a new government report. The Government Accountability Office found 43% of authorized behavioral health care jobs in the militarys Defense Health Agency were vacant as of January 2023, said Alyssa Hundrup, author of the report titled Defense Health Care: DOD Should Monitor Urgent Referrals to Civilian Behavioral Health Providers to Ensure Timely Care, which was released Tuesday. We also heard that facilities are facing hiring challenges, such as slow hiring processes or theyre not able to offer competitive pay when compared to the private sector or other agencies, she said. Mental health workers can include psychiatrists and nurse practitioners, as well as clinical social workers, licensed professional counselors, substance abuse counselors, therapists and nurses who do not prescribe medicine but are trained to diagnose and provide counseling. The staffing shortages found by the GAO stand in contrast to a recommendation from the Suicide Prevention and Response Independent Review Committee created last year by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. The committee called for an increase in mental health services and appointment availability. The Defense Health Agency typically aims to keep medical care for troops within military treatment facilities. When thats not available, DHA will send troops to civilian providers that accept Tricare, the militarys health insurance. To mitigate the effects of vacancies in mental health care jobs, officials from selected military treatment facilities reported taking several steps, including more referrals to facilities off base and prioritizing initial appointments over follow-ups, according to the report. When service members go into a local community for care, Hundrup said DHA is not doing enough to monitor how quickly those with urgent referrals are being seen. Without doing so, the agency cant identify and address what is causing delays in care. In response to the GAOs findings, DHA director Lt. Gen. Telita Crosland said when service members are referred off base, they are responsible for making their own appointments, which gives DHA less control over meeting a standard. At military facilities, appointments are made for them. GAO found when looking at fiscal 2022 data that initial routine appointments were scheduled within 16 days on average in military facilities and about 30 days off base. The Defense Department mandates these appointments take place within 28 days, Hundrup said in a GAO podcast about the report. The military is not alone in its shortages. Nationwide there are not enough mental health workers to meet demand, according to the National Institute for Health Care Management Foundation. Nearly half of all Americans live in a region lacking enough mental health workers. This could also be exacerbating the off-base wait times, Hundrup said. Specific to the Tricare network, we heard that some service members had a hard time finding people that would accept Tricare or that had availability, she said. Urgent appointments were met the same day on military bases, while it could take between two and three weeks at civilian facilities. However, there is no set standard for how quickly urgent referrals should be seen in its civilian network, she said. [The Defense Department] has explained to us that they dont have this because it can really depend, vary based on clinical need and what the provider indicates, she said. We certainly appreciate that clinical needs vary, but with timeframes of over two and three weeks, its hard to see how under any circumstance that would be considered expedited or urgent. Hundrup said she did see DHA making strides to improve wait times. The agency has launched a physician recruitment team, is piloting a program to triage some patients into non-medical settings, such as counseling, and is preparing to expand telehealth appointments. However, Lt. Col. Chris Paine, chief of behavioral health at Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center at Fort Cavazos in Texas, said during an October interview that the triage program to send soldiers to chaplains or targeted counseling services only worked in the short term. In the end, the soldier gets to choose, and many preferred a medical health care worker. No one really goes to a cardiologist and says, I have a heart problem. You go to primary care, primary care does an assessment and then based on that assessment, theyll refer you to a specialty service, Paine said. To normalize mental health care, the Army directed soldiers to go straight to medical staff, he said. In some ways, we got what we were asking for and then some. The system is just trying to adapt to that influx, Paine said. He also participates in a DHA working group looking to reduce the time it takes to hire new mental health care workers. Across DHA, it can take more than four months to hire a new employee. It can be longer in mental health, he said. The fundamental problem is we attract people faster than our time-to-hire process allows us to backfill them. There are many initiatives being done to try to fix that. Weve not fixed it yet, Paine said. Its the lowest of the low because we dont have leaders who will tolerate this anymore. We have nowhere to go but up and I really do believe that. The SpaceX Crew Dragon Freedom carrying the four crew of the Axiom Space Ax-3 mission lands in the Atlantic off the coast of Daytona Beach, Fla., on Friday, Feb. 9, 2024. (Axiom Space) (Tribune News Service) The four crew members of the Axiom Space Ax-3 mission that launched from Kennedy Space Center last month made a safe return to Earth with a splashdown off the coast of Daytona Beach on Friday morning. The SpaceX Crew Dragon Freedom departed from the International Space Station on Wednesday morning and landed at 8:30 a.m. off the Florida coast after a 47-hour trip home. The ship carried the Ax-3 crew of Axiom chief astronaut and mission commander Michael Lopez-Alegria along with Italian Air Force Col. Walter Villadei, Alper Gezeravc of Turkey and European Space Agency project astronaut Marcus Wandt of Sweden. The Dragon also brought back 550 pounds of science research and cargo from the ISS. The return path brought Dragon across Florida with a sonic boom heard over Central Florida before its set of two drogue parachutes slowed the spacecraft down followed by successful deployment of its four main parachutes for an on-time landing amid calm seas. On behalf of SpaceX welcome home, thanks for flying SpaceX, mission command said over coms with Lopez-Alegria replying, It was our pleasure. All four crew members are feeling well, he added as teams raced toward the floating Dragon to prepare it for its lift onto the companys recovery ship named Shannon. The crew was up and out of the spacecraft less than an hour after splashdown, set for medical checks before a helicopter ride back to land. The quartet launched atop a Falcon 9 rocket from KSC on Jan. 18 marking the first of six potential human spaceflight missions on the calendar this year planned from the Space Coast, with SpaceX responsible for five of them. Their return marks the completion of the 12th human spaceflight by SpaceX, which launched its first Crew Dragon in May 2020. It has since taken up 46 passengers to space across its fleet of four spacecraft. Lopez-Alegria takes up two of those 46 slots as he became the first repeat flyer having also flown on the first mission for Axiom Space. Most of SpaceX flights are part of NASAs Commercial Crew Program to rotate four astronauts to the ISS every six months. After the first test flight Demo-2, it has since flown up seven of those missions. Axiom Space flights are private missions to the ISS for which SpaceX acts like an Uber. Axiom pays SpaceX for launch service and NASA for the stay on the ISS. The Ax-3 crew is the first all-European private crew as Lopez-Alegria has both U.S. and Spanish citizenship. They spent more than 18 days on board the ISS having been delayed from their originally planned departure last weekend because of bad weather over Florida. The crew spent more than 21 days total in space. Lopez-Alegria completes his sixth trip in space having flown four missions for NASA and now two with Axiom Space. For the three customers, it was their first orbital trip in space although Villadei also flew a short suborbital flight with Virgin Galactic last year. Gezeravc became the first astronaut for Turkey. SpaceXs next human spaceflight is coming up as early as Feb. 22 with the launch from KSC of the Crew-8 mission to relieve Crew-7, which has been on board the ISS since August. SpaceX has another crew rotation mission as early as August and another Axiom Space mission in October as well as the private Polaris Dawn mission that wont visit the ISS but send up billionaire Jared Issacman and three others on an orbital mission that will feature the first commercial tethered spacewalk. That flight is targeted for this summer. The other human spaceflight planned this year not from SpaceX will be the first test flight with passengers on board for Boeings CST-100 Starliner, part of Boeings efforts to catch up to SpaceX and be able to take part in the Commercial Crew Program rotational missions. That flight is slated for April. 2024 Orlando Sentinel. Visit orlandosentinel.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Did you know there are some financial metrics that can provide clues of a potential multi-bagger? One common approach is to try and find a company with returns on capital employed (ROCE) that are increasing, in conjunction with a growing amount of capital employed. Basically this means that a company has profitable initiatives that it can continue to reinvest in, which is a trait of a compounding machine. With that in mind, we've noticed some promising trends at EnerSys (NYSE:ENS) so let's look a bit deeper. What Is Return On Capital Employed (ROCE)? For those that aren't sure what ROCE is, it measures the amount of pre-tax profits a company can generate from the capital employed in its business. The formula for this calculation on EnerSys is: Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) (Total Assets - Current Liabilities) 0.15 = US$416m (US$3.5b - US$663m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to December 2023). Therefore, EnerSys has an ROCE of 15%. In absolute terms, that's a pretty normal return, and it's somewhat close to the Electrical industry average of 13%. View our latest analysis for EnerSys roce Above you can see how the current ROCE for EnerSys compares to its prior returns on capital, but there's only so much you can tell from the past. If you'd like to see what analysts are forecasting going forward, you should check out our free report for EnerSys. The Trend Of ROCE EnerSys has not disappointed with their ROCE growth. The figures show that over the last five years, ROCE has grown 51% whilst employing roughly the same amount of capital. So our take on this is that the business has increased efficiencies to generate these higher returns, all the while not needing to make any additional investments. It's worth looking deeper into this though because while it's great that the business is more efficient, it might also mean that going forward the areas to invest internally for the organic growth are lacking. Story continues The Bottom Line On EnerSys' ROCE As discussed above, EnerSys appears to be getting more proficient at generating returns since capital employed has remained flat but earnings (before interest and tax) are up. Investors may not be impressed by the favorable underlying trends yet because over the last five years the stock has only returned 27% to shareholders. So with that in mind, we think the stock deserves further research. While EnerSys looks impressive, no company is worth an infinite price. The intrinsic value infographic in our free research report helps visualize whether ENS is currently trading for a fair price. While EnerSys may not currently earn the highest returns, we've compiled a list of companies that currently earn more than 25% return on equity. Check out this free list here. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Vice President Kamala Harris speaks at a news conference in Boston in 2023. (Chris Christo, Boston Herald/TNS) WASHINGTON (Tribune News Service) Vice President Kamala Harris lambasted a Justice Department report that questioned President Joe Bidens age and acuity, calling the findings gratuitous, inaccurate and inappropriate and politically motivated. The signal of support comes as Biden faces renewed worries over his age following the release of the report and a subsequent press conference. Speaking to reporters Thursday night, Biden confused the details of a conversation he had with a foreign leader for the fourth time in a week. Still, the vice president vociferously defended Biden during previously planned remarks at the White House on gun violence, saying that unfavorable descriptions of the presidents demeanor, could not be more wrong on the facts. She said Biden was likely distracted during the interview with prosecutors investigating his handling of classified documents because it took place just a day after Hamas militants Oct. 7 rampage in Israel. It was an intense moment for the commander-in-chief, Harris said, adding that Biden had just spent countless hours with top military and intelligence officials. The president was in front of and on top of it all, Harris said. Harris also cited her own history as a prosecutor in California to cast the work of Special Counsel Robert Hur, a former U.S. attorney appointed by Donald Trump, as intended to cause political harm. Harris said she would have expected a higher level of integrity from a Justice Department report. White House and Biden campaign officials have targeted Hur since the release of the document, which described Biden as unable to remember the year his son had died, when his vice presidency ended and basic details about Afghanistan policy debates in the Obama administration. The revelations amplified one of the biggest campaign liabilities for the president just nine months before voters head to the polls. Some three-quarters of Americans, including half of Democrats, said they had concerns about the presidents mental and physical health, according to a NBC News poll released earlier this week. 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Visit bloomberg.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Mr Justice Paul McDermott said the defendant had shown no regret or remorse for this offence Wayne Whelan in his hospital bed after the first attempt on his life Mark Guinea Pig Desmond was involved in at least four murders A "remorseless" criminal who called Mark 'Guinea Pig' Desmond to a drugs meeting in a Dublin park, where the gangland figure was gunned down, will now serve a global jail term of 20 years for his involvement in this and other gangland shootings. Charles McClean, who is already serving a 16.5-year sentence, was today jailed for an additional three-and-a-half years for impeding the apprehension of the person who murdered Mr Desmond. Sentencing McClean at the Central Criminal Court today, Mr Justice Paul McDermott said the defendant had shown no regret or remorse for this offence as he had "willingly become involved in similar offending" following this incident. The judge said McClean was clearly willing to "engage and assist those committing murder". Mark Guinea Pig Desmond was involved in at least four murders McClean has already been sentenced to two consecutive sentences totalling 16.5 years imprisonment for facilitating a criminal organisation as well as later conspiring to murder gangster Wayne Whelan. Whelan survived the murder attempt but was subsequently shot dead following another attack in November 2019. The judge said today that the seriousness of McClean's offending had "escalated dramatically" from 2016 and that "actual killers and associates" depend on people like him to make sure they go "undetected". Mr Justice McDermott said that every murder and attempted murder has a separate victim and involves a family, adding that the fact that McClean had engaged in "three of these types of offences" was a "very unusual feature" of the case. The court found that McClean's three-and-a-half-year sentence for the impeding offence had to run consecutively to his eight-and-a-half year sentence for facilitation and the eight-year sentence he is presently serving for conspiracy to commit murder. The Central Criminal Court was told during this week's sentence hearing for 35-year-old McClean that he told gardai he later got rid of Mr Desmond's phone "at the request of" Wayne Whelan. The sentence hearing also heard that McClean had a motor business for a number of years, which had been associated with Wayne Whelan. Charles McClean (35) of St Marks Grove, Clondalkin, Dublin 22 was arraigned before the Central Criminal Court last week, when he had been due to go on trial for the murder of 41-year-old Mr Desmond. Wayne Whelan in his hospital bed after the first attempt on his life McClean pleaded guilty to impeding the apprehension or prosecution of another at Griffeen Valley Park, Lucan, Dublin, on December 2 2016, knowing or believing them to be guilty of an arrestable offence, namely the murder of Mr Desmond. The court heard that this was the second count on the indictment. Mr Desmond, who was 41 when he died after being shot at least three times with a handgun, had links to dissident republicans and the drug trade in west Dublin. Mr Desmond was also charged with the murder of two men in 1999, but these charges were dropped days before he was due to go on trial. Before delivering the sentence today, Mr Justice McDermott said that serious offences had been committed by McClean subsequent to this case. The judge said that Mr Desmond had been staying in an associate's home in a cul de sac close to a park, where he was later killed, on December 2. He said Mr Desmond had received a phone call from a mobile phone around 7pm and left the house where he was staying to meet the defendant and another man. "The killing was well planned and the assailant was present in the vicinity and armed," he added. Shortly after the attack, a partly damaged gun and a spent bullet were found beside a burnt-out Mazda in Lucan, said the judge. Mr Justice McDermott said McClean had been spotted driving a white Ford Focus van on November 26, which was later found abandoned in Clondalkin. He said the keys belonging to that van had been found in the defendant's apartment. The judge noted that Mr Desmond had used a particular mobile phone and the investigation had revealed that this phone had travelled in the direction of Clondalkin in the immediate aftermath of the killing. He said McClean accepted in his garda interviews that he was involved in the removing of the deceased's phone from the house where he was staying and had disposed of it. Mr Justice McDermott said the defendant was arrested by gardai on June 13 2017 and made several significant confessions. "He admitted he made a call to the deceased for the purpose of discussing other criminality and said it was the deceased's idea to go to the park," added the judge. The judge said McClean told gardai he had run to the house where Mr Desmond was staying, where he had removed the deceased's mobile phone. He said the defendant had also identified himself on CCTV footage as the person running towards that house and made other partial admissions to gardai. He said McClean has 20 previous convictions, some of which are for the most serious type of criminal offences. He said the defendant had no regret or remorse as he had willingly become involved in similar offending following this offence. These convictions include conspiracy to commit murder over the September 2019 attempted murder of Wayne Whelan, for which he received an eight-year sentence. Last April at the Central Criminal Court, McClean was jailed for eight-and-a-half years for facilitating a criminal organisation in the unexplained fatal shooting of father-of-five Thomas McCarthy (55), a man who had no links to crime. Mr McCarthy was gunned down when he answered the door at his mother's house in Ballyfermot on July 27, 2020. He suffered nine separate gunshot injuries. The court heard that McClean's other offences include the possession of drugs and convictions for historic matters in the District Court including the juvenile court. The judge added today that the murder of Mr Desmond was "a well planned one", where the actions included the disposing of a mobile phone. "It is clear there was intent to dispose of relevant evidence," he said. He said the shooting of Mr Desmond had occurred in a public place and that the defendant had gone back to where the deceased was staying to take his mobile phone. "The entire circumstances of involvement satisfy me of the high level of criminal culpability," he continued. Having regard to the gravity of the offence, the judge set a headline sentence of seven years for McClean before mitigation. In mitigation, the court took into account McClean's guilty plea. The judge said the trial would have been lengthy and there was significant benefit to be gained from the plea. Passing sentence, Mr Justice McDermott said McClean had admitted to certain elements of the offence at the time and provided some assistance to the investigation. He said the defendant had embarked on numerous courses in custody and came from a family with no connection to crime. The court found that the appropriate sentence for McClean was five years and six months in prison. The judge said there were additional issues to be considered, such as whether he should make the sentence consecutive "to those sentences already noted". He said the fact McClean had engaged in three of these types of offences to date was a "very unusual feature of the case" and therefore he was satisfied "the sentence had to be consecutive to those he is now serving". The judge said he had to consider the totality principle and if he sentenced McClean to five years and six months in prison along with the two other sentences [eight-and-a-half year sentence for facilitation and the eight-year sentence he is presently serving for conspiracy to commit murder] then that would be a total of 22 years imprisonment. Mr Justice McDermott said he would suspend the last two years of the five years and six month sentence because of the totality principle and due to the fact McClean was making progress in prison. McClean was today sentenced to five years and six months in prison with the final two years suspended for a period of four years. The three-and-half-year sentence is to run consecutively to the defendant's other two sentences. At this week's sentence hearing before the Central Criminal Court, Detective Sergeant Padraic Jennings detailed the background of the event, telling Sean Gillane SC, prosecuting, that the deceased Mark Desmond had divided his time between Ireland and the UK. Mr Gillane said Mr Desmond had been staying in the home of "an associate" in close proximity to Griffeen Valley Park in Lucan, when he got a phone call after 7pm on December 2. Det Sgt Jennings said that having received the phone call Mr Desmond left the address and went to Griffeen Valley, where he was approached when he entered the park and shot three times. He sustained fatal injuries to his head and body and died at the scene. The detective said that local people had heard loud bangs around 7.20pm that night and one juvenile witness had seen a male figure in black running away from the scene. The barrister said "some movement" of figures and vehicles had been captured on CCTV footage around Griffeen Valley Park. The investigation team found a burnt out Mazda 6 at Haydens Lane in Lucan, which is a relatively short distance from the park. Gardai found a damaged 'Rossi' firearm near the burnt-out motor and spent bullets were recovered from the deceased's body, which matched the weapon. A van was found abandoned in Clondalkin and McClean had been seen driving this vehicle in December 2016, the court heard. Gardai learned that Mr Desmond had used a phone but, despite a search of the park, no phone has ever been found. He said a very significant amount of work went into the investigation to analyse other phone data. The detective said call data was gathered from a certain phone which had travelled in the direction of Clondalkin immediately after the shooting. CCTV footage, the court heard, also captured a white Ford Focus van travelling in the direction of Clondalkin. Mr Gillane said McClean was responsible for removing Mr Desmond's phone from the address where the deceased had been staying. Det Sgt Jennings said a phone number associated with Mr Desmond had received a phone call on the night of December 2, which appeared to be the call that "inspired" the deceased to go to the park. The investigation revealed that CCTV footage had captured individuals known to McClean purchasing an unregistered number, a SIM card and a top up voucher at The Mill Shopping Centre in Clondalkin in November 2016. This number, the court heard, had been used on a single occasion to call Mr Desmond. McClean initially remained silent in his interviews with gardai. However, the defendant engaged with officers in his sixth interview and said he was known to Mr Desmond and was his associate. He accepted he had made the phone call to Mr Desmond with a view to meeting him at Griffeen Valley Park and had gone to the park that evening. McClean indicated to gardai that he was to meet Mr Desmond with another individual and his intention was to discuss other criminality. "He said going to the park was the deceased's idea," said the detective. Det Sgt Jennings agreed with prosecution counsel Mr Gillane that McClean said they had walked past two tall men in the park that night and one of them had shot Mr Desmond. Following this, the detective said, McClean said he ran to the house where Mr Desmond had been staying at the time and removed the deceased's mobile phone. McClean accepted he was the figure seen running after the shooting and had described to gardai "doing a legger" after the incident. Det Sgt Jennings said the defendant had travelled to Northern Ireland on December 3 before travelling to Tenerife on December 5, 2016. Under cross-examination, Det Sgt Jennings agreed with Michael Bowman SC, defending, that there was a voluntary arrangement to meet Mr Desmond and that the third party identified by his client was referred to by a nickname. The detective also agreed that McClean had identified to gardai the person who purchased the phone by name. "He indicated the purpose for the meeting was to discuss other criminality and a discussion was to take place in relation to drugs," said Mr Bowman. The witness further agreed with the lawyer that McClean indicated to gardai that a conversation was taking place between himself, Mr Desmond and a third individual when the deceased was approached and shot. The lawyer said his client had also told gardai that he went back to the property at Griffeen Park where Mr Desmond was staying with Wayne Whelan. Mr Bowman said McClean had resided in Clondalkin at the time and got rid of the phone at the request of Wayne Whelan. He said McClean had been in the "autotrade" business with Whelan. Det Sgt Jennings agreed with counsel that McClean told gardai he had "f**ked" the deceased's phone out the window of the car and threw the SIM away. McClean said in his interview that it didn't "look good" and that was "effectively why he wanted to do a runner and get out of Dublin" and that he had stayed with his partner in a hotel in Belfast. Mr Bowman added: "There had been a falling out between these parties and one of these individuals might have been blamed by the deceased and calling one of the other individuals a rat". Mr Bowman submitted to the court that McClean was in a long term relationship with a woman who has two children. He said his client has a very close relationship with his mother and grandmother and had assisted them both when their health "faded". Counsel said there was no suggestion of criminality in McClean's family. He said his client had a motor business for a number of years associated with Wayne Whelan. Mr Bowman had previously asked for a governor's and an educational report from Portlaoise Prison. Mr Bowman said McClean has enrolled in a number of classes in prison and was working as a cleaner on one of the landings. In his submissions, Mr Bowman said his client's first opportunity to plead guilty was presented at the arraignment stage. McClean previously pleaded guilty that between January 25 and July 27, 2020 inclusive, with knowledge of the existence of a criminal organisation, he intentionally or recklessly committed an act to facilitate the murder of Mr McCarthy. McClean's eight-and-a-half year sentence for facilitation ran consecutively to his other major offence for conspiracy to commit murder over the September 2019 attempted murder of Wayne Whelan, for which he received an eight-year sentence in September 2021. The defendant's conviction for conspiracy to commit murder was backdated to September 29 2020, when he went into custody. The boys independent living skills are not there at all A judge has stated that he is terrified that a 17-year old boy in State care "who can barely boil an egg will end up in emergency accommodation in a hotel on reaching his 18th birthday next month. At the Family Law Court in Ennis, Judge Alec Gabbett made his comments when expressing his frustration at efforts by TUSLA to provide after-care and suitable accommodation for the teenage boy after he turns 18 next month. The boy is currently under the care of TUSLA, the Child and Family Agency (CFA) and Judge Gabbett said that TUSLA is currently spending 6,000 per month on accommodation for the boy where two care workers providing round the clock care for him. Judge Gabbett said that he wants TUSLA to continue the fund the teenagers care at his current placement after he turns 18 until suitable alternative accommodation can be found. Judge Gabbett said: He is very happy therewe cant throw this boy out". In May of last year, Judge Gabbett ordered medical intervention for the teenager after being told at that time he had only had one shower to date in 2023. Solicitor for TUSLA, Kevin Sherry said that the teenager is now on a Focus Ireland waiting list for accommodation when he turns 18. Mr Sherry said that the TUSLA after-care service are "trying their level best to finalise an after-care plan for the teenager. Judge Gabbett said: This boy hasnt attended school in three or four years, can barely boil an egg, was barely able to wash himself last January and yet we are proposing that he live independently? He said: The boys independent living skills are not there at all." Judge Gabbett said that the teenager is crippled by a severe emotional disorder. He said: "He is not in education and never will be." Judge Gabbett said that the boys 18th birthday next month is coming like an express train and that he wont have any jurisdiction over the boys care once he turns 18. Judge Gabbett said: Once he turns 18 technically he could walk out the door and there is nothing the CFA could do about it. He said: The boy is being sent out into the world to live in a Focus Ireland house with very little support. Judge Gabbett said that he was still in the dark about the level of support that will be provided to the boy. The judge said the teen has fallen between the cracks in the system as he doesn't meet the HSEs very high threshold of meeting the criteria to be diagnosed with a complex disability in order for the HSE to care for him. Judge Gabbett remarked that the responsibility lies for the teenager with the CFA as it appears that the HSE "want to run a mile from it - they dont want to touch it with a barge pole. Judge Gabbett adjourned the case to next Thursday. Judge Gabbett said that needs to hear from the CFA where this boy is going to going to go. Judge Bryan Smyth said the incident probably warranted a jail term but gave Mulhall a three-month suspended sentence. A dangerous driver was caught speeding along the M50 at more than 170kmh while on the phone and inhaling suspected laughing gas from a balloon. Armed Support Unit gardai intercepted Daire Mulhall (21) as he drove towards Dublin city centre in an extraordinarily reckless manner, a court heard. Judge Bryan Smyth said the incident probably warranted a jail term but gave Mulhall a three-month suspended sentence. He also banned the accused from driving for two years and fined him 300. Mulhall, with an address at The Rise, Belgard Heights, Tallaght, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving at Junction 9 on the M50 in Clondalkin on September 10, 2022. Garda Richard Hennessy told Dublin District Court members of the ASU saw the accused heading northbound on the motorway, driving in excess of 170kmh while on the phone and inhaling laughing gas, or some sort of gas. The accused pulled across several lanes of traffic while overtaking vehicles, the garda said. When the gardai pulled up alongside him and signalled him to stop, Mulhall appeared to be inhaling gas from a balloon, the court heard. It seems to be extraordinarily reckless behaviour, Judge Smyth said. Mulhall had previous motoring convictions including careless driving and driving unaccompanied as a learner. The accused worked as an apprentice in air conditioning, his solicitor Amanda Connolly said. On the night in question, he got a call to say a friend needed to be collected in town and was coming in from Tallaght, Ms Connolly said. Mulhall accepted what he did was completely reckless behaviour and an act of stupidity," she said, asking the judge for leniency. Judge Smyth said the case probably warrants a custodial sentence but given the guilty plea, he suspended the prison term for a year. CCTV played to the court showed six prisoners, including brandon Crosbie, attacking a man near a billiards table. One of the landings in Mountjoy. Photo: Gerry Mooney A man has been jailed for six years for his involvement in an attack on another prisoner in Mountjoy Prison. Brandon Crosbie (25) of Hollytree Terrace, Balbutcher Lane, Dublin 11 appeared before Judge Martin Nolan in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court yesterday after pleading guilty to one count of violent disorder on December 18, 2018 in Mountjoy Prison as well as several counts of endangerment and dangerous driving while driving through Dublin City on May 22, 2022. Crosbie also pleaded guilty to seven charges in relation to a car chase across Dublin City on May 22, 2022. These charges include endangerment, unlawful use of a vehicle without the consent of its owner, two counts of intentionally or recklessly engaging in conduct which created a substantial risk of death, and criminal damage as well as driving without insurance or a driving license. Garda John Costigan told Diana Stuart BL, prosecuting, that Crosbie was involved in an attack on a fellow prisoner in the recreation hall of Mountjoy Prison on December 18, 2018. CCTV played to the court showed six prisoners, including Crosbie, attacking a man near a billiards table. The footage showed the men kicking and punching the man as well as stamping on his head while he was down on the ground. The man was left unconscious as a result of the attack. All six men involved in the attack were identified through CCTV. One of the men involved had a knife, but the court heard Crosbie had no knowledge of this and did not know it was going to be used. Crosbie accepted his involvement in the violent disorder and was subject to a disciplinary hearing while in prison. The injured man refused to cooperate with the investigation or make a victim impact statement. Garda Wayne O'Brien told Jennifer Jackson BL, prosecuting, that he was on patrol in an unmarked car with a colleague when Crosbie cut across them. The gardai activated their lights and sirens and indicated that Crosbie should stop, but he accelerated. During the pursuit, Crosbie broke red lights, drove on the wrong side of a roundabout, forced a taxi to take evasive action and drove straight through a toll bridge barrier. Crosbie made no attempt to stop or yield to traffic. At one point he reached speeds of 160km/h. An armed support unit became involved in the chase and set up a 'stinger.' When Crosbie drove past them, one of his tyres was hit and began to deflate. The pursuit continued, and ultimately ended when the tyre disintegrated. Crosbie was arrested when he left the vehicle. The court heard he was co-operative with gardai following his arrest. Crosbie has 118 previous convictions. The entire incident last around half an hour. The vehicle had been reported missing the previous evening, but Crosbie faced no charge in relation to this. Aoife O'Leary BL, defending, said her client had struggled with addiction and the abuse of tablets in the past. She said that on the day Crosbie drove dangerously, no one was hurt and that there was no damage to or collision with other vehicles. Ms O'Leary said her client had come in contact with the criminal justice system from a young age and engaged impulsively on May 22, 2022. She told the court her client was anxious to deal with his own issues and is willing to engage with any services that would help him with his drug addiction. In sentencing, Judge Nolan described Crosbie's driving as horrendous and said the violent disorder was a serious matter. While he was not the ring leader of the attack on this individual, he took a very active participation, Judge Nolan said. He said Crosbie was entirely reckless while driving and drove without regard to other road users and innocent people who were just driving along public roads. Judge Nolan sentenced Crosbie to six years imprisonment on the count of violent disorder and four years for the endangerment charge. These sentences will run concurrently. I should say that if the endangerment wasn't before the court, I would have imposed a four year sentence upon the violent disorder, he said. Judge Nolan also disqualified Crosbie from driving for five years. The sentence was backdated to when Crosbie entered custody on October 10, 2022. Dale Kavanagh took out a knife and put it to the car owner's neck. A Wicklow man who hijacked a car using a knife after being driven to Dublin to buy crack cocaine has been jailed for two and a half years. Dale Kavanagh (29), of Upper Main Street, Arklow, Co. Wicklow appeared before Judge Orla Crowe in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court yesterday having pleaded guilty to assault causing harm, unlawful seizure of a vehicle and driving with no insurance in Castle Crescent, Clondalkin on March 3, 2022. Garda Tom Balfe told John Moher BL, prosecuting, that Kavanagh was driven to Dublin to buy crack cocaine by a man he knew. He proceeded to attack that man and hijack his car with the use of a knife. The car's owner was sitting in his vehicle on the Main Street in Arklow, Co Wicklow when he saw Kavanagh and another man. Kavanagh and the car's owner knew each other. The two men asked him to drive them to Dublin in exchange for 40 and money for petrol. They were travelling to Dublin in order to get some crack cocaine. The man drove the two to a car park in Castle Crescent, Clondalkin. Kavanagh and the other man then got out and went to a house. When they returned to the car, Kavanagh sat in the back seat. He then took out a knife and put it to the car owner's neck. A struggle between the three men ensued and Kavanagh hit the car's owner a number of times with the handle of the knife. Both men also struck the car's owner with punches. Kavanagh attempted to retrieve the keys from the ignition and the car's owner tried to get out. The car was then driven off while its owner was hanging out of it, dragging the man along the ground for approximately ten meters. Onlookers heard him screaming in pain from being dragged along the road, with one eyewitness saying it looked like one of the wheels went over him. When gardai arrived, they found the man bleeding profusely and disorientated. He was brought to Tallaght Garda Station. Medical examination showed the man had lacerations to his hand and road rash on his hip. Gardai spotted the hijacked car about two hours later. They saw a large amount of blood on its exterior and arrested the two men who had been involved in the earlier incident. They found the knife used in the hijacking under a seat as well as the car owner's wallet, which was missing 200. Kavanagh was interviewed and said the car's owner had went 'psycho' which is why they drove off in his car. Vincent Heneghan SC, defending, said his client had begun using drugs at the age of 14 and had had a chronic heroin addiction from the age of 21. He does appear to be a good person who does bad things arising out of his drug addiction, he said, adding that his client doesn't fully remember what happened. Mr Heneghan told the court his client was genuinely remorseful for his actions and is currently drug free. Kavanagh has 14 previous offences including for affray, production of an article, and misuse of drugs. In sentencing, Judge Crowe described the incident as especially lawless and said whilst the injured party was facilitating the consumption of drugs, he did not deserve what was meted out to him. She said the aggravating factors include that Kavanagh had committed the crimes while on bail for another offence as well as his previous convictions. Judge Crowe also noted that Kavanagh was placed at a high risk of reoffending in the probation report. She said the mitigating factors were his guilty plea, that he apologised, that he was in the grip of a drug problem and that he enjoys family support. Judge Crowe also commended the gardai for finding Kavanagh and the car so quickly. The judge sentenced Kavanagh to a period of three years imprisonment, but suspended the final six months on strict conditions. This sentence is to run consecutively to a two and a half year sentence he is already serving. Kavanagh was also disqualified from driving for two years. Special security measures had to be put in place for the man after he was incorrectly identified online as the suspect The man has now initiated High Court proceedings against Gript Media Ltd, publishers of the Gript website, and its editor John McGuirk A man who was falsely identified as being the suspect in a stabbing outside a school which left three children and a creche worker injured has initiated defamation proceedings against an online news outlet and its editor. Special security measures had to be put in place for the man after he was incorrectly identified online as the suspect in the attack at Parnell Square in Dublin last November. The Irish Independent has learned the man has now initiated High Court proceedings against Gript Media Ltd, publishers of the Gript website, and its editor John McGuirk. The online news outlet published a story which blamed the wrong man for the stabbing. The article was later removed from the internet following contact from gardai. The Gript article did not name the man, who was born in Algeria, but included details of an immigration case ruling, which was available on legal websites, and in which he was named. Following the Gript report, the innocent man was quickly identified on social media, where his photograph and other details were published. The posts were shared thousands of times. Regan McEntee & Partners, a solicitors firm in Trim, Co Meath, initiated proceedings on the mans behalf yesterday. While full details of the case have yet to be made public, it is known the man is suing for defamation and breach of privacy. An injunction will also be sought restraining further publication. A spokesman for the law firm said it was not in a position to comment on the case at this point. Mr McGuirk also declined to comment. Last November, gardai expressed deep concern after the innocent mans photograph and other details about him were shared on social media. The force also criticised the Gript article. At the time a garda spokesman said: This article is highly inaccurate. The individual referenced in the article is not a person of interest in the investigation into the knife attack of last Thursday. An Garda Siochana has contacted the online news outlet and the outlet has agreed to remove the article. The online news outlet did not contact the Garda Press Office before publication. An Garda Siochana is aware of some social media posts resulting from the article that purport to identify the individual and has put in place measures to ensure the safety of the individual. Mr McGuirk later said the article was based on garda and official sources. He said what had happened feels like a bit of a rat-f**king, a term used to describe dirty tricks or deliberate sabotage. Another man was later charged in connection with the stabbing incident, which occurred at lunchtime on November 23 outside Gaelscoil Cholaiste Mhuire. An anti-immigrant protest that evening, arising from the knife attack, later escalated into a large scale riot, with vandalism, arson and looting in Dublin city centre. Overview of Richard Pzena (Trades, Portfolio)'s Recent Transaction On December 31, 2023, Pzena Investment Management, LLC, led by value investing stalwart Richard Pzena (Trades, Portfolio), adjusted its holdings in Steelcase Inc (NYSE:SCS) by reducing its stake. The transaction saw a decrease of 2,026,798 shares, which equates to a 20.53% change in the firm's holdings in the company. This move had a -0.12% impact on Pzena's portfolio, with the shares being traded at a price of $13.52. Following the transaction, the firm's total share count in Steelcase Inc stood at 7,843,245, representing a significant 8.40% position in the company and accounting for 0.46% of Pzena's investment portfolio. Richard Pzena (Trades, Portfolio) is the founder and Co-Chief Investment Officer of Pzena Investment Management, LLC, established in 1995. With a BS summa cum laude from the Wharton School and an MBA from the University of Pennsylvania, Pzena's investment philosophy centers on purchasing shares in quality businesses at low prices, often during times of market disfavor. The firm's approach involves a rigorous valuation process to determine if a stock's price drop is due to temporary issues or permanent impairment. Pzena Investment Management oversees an equity portfolio valued at $26.6 billion, with top holdings in diverse sectors such as Financial Services and Technology. Richard Pzena Trims Stake in Steelcase Inc Steelcase Inc at a Glance Steelcase Inc, with the stock symbol SCS, is a prominent furniture company based in the USA, having gone public on February 18, 1998. The company specializes in office furniture, technology, and space solutions, operating primarily through its Americas and EMEA segments. Steelcase's product range includes desking, benching, systems, storage, and seating solutions. Despite a challenging market, the company maintains a market capitalization of $1.48 billion and a current stock price of $12.94. Story continues Richard Pzena Trims Stake in Steelcase Inc Impact of the Trade on Pzena's Portfolio The recent sale of Steelcase shares by Pzena Investment Management has slightly reduced the firm's exposure to the industrial products sector. With the trade price at $13.52 and the current stock price at $12.94, the firm has witnessed a -4.29% change in the stock's value post-transaction. Despite this, Steelcase Inc still holds a meaningful position in Pzena's portfolio, indicating a continued belief in the company's value proposition. Steelcase Inc's Financial Health and Market Performance Steelcase Inc's financial health is reflected in its GF Score of 74/100, indicating a strong potential for future performance. The company's balance sheet is rated 6/10, while its profitability rank stands at 7/10. However, its growth rank is a modest 3/10, and the GF Value Rank is at 5/10. The stock's current valuation is deemed "Fairly Valued" with a GF Value of $12.78 and a Price to GF Value ratio of 1.01. Despite these mixed signals, the company's Piotroski F-Score of 8 and Altman Z-Score of 3.00 suggest a stable financial condition. Comparative Valuation and Market Sentiment Steelcase Inc's stock valuation is in line with historical multiples, as indicated by its Price to GF Value ratio. The market sentiment, gauged by RSI and Momentum Index, shows a neutral position with RSI 14 Day at 51.75. Other notable gurus, including Joel Greenblatt (Trades, Portfolio) and Barrow, Hanley, Mewhinney & Strauss, also hold positions in Steelcase Inc, reflecting a diverse interest in the stock among value investors. Conclusion Richard Pzena (Trades, Portfolio)'s recent reduction in Steelcase Inc shares is a strategic move that aligns with the firm's value investing philosophy. While the transaction has slightly decreased the firm's stake in the company, Steelcase Inc remains a notable holding within Pzena's portfolio. Considering the company's fair valuation, stable financial scores, and the interest of other prominent gurus, Steelcase Inc may continue to be a significant player in the portfolios of value investors looking for opportunities in the industrial products sector. 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. Barbie Kardashian (22) with an address at Mulgrave Street, Limerick City, appeared before the court yesterday A transgender woman has appeared before Limerick Circuit Criminal Court accused of threatening to kill or cause serious harm to two women in Limerick City last year. Barbie Kardashian, 22, with an address at Mulgrave Street, Limerick City, appeared before the court yesterday. Kardashian is accused of a total of four counts of making threats to kill or cause serious harm, contrary, to Section 5 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act, 1997. According to an indictment brought by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Kardashian is alleged to have made a threat to kill or cause serious harm to Tegan McGhee, at Mulgrave Street, Limerick City, on February 25, 2023, intending for Ms McGhee to believe the threat against her would be carried out. Kardashian is accused that on April 25, June 9, and June 11th, 2023, at Mulgrave Street, Limerick City, she threatened to kill or cause serious harm to Roisin Linnane, intending for Ms Linnane to believe the threat against her would be carried out. Kardashian was remanded to appear before Limerick Circuit Criminal Court for trial on all four charges, on April 8th, 2024. Sources said there is widespread shock in the Dublin prison today where the officer had been based for the past number of years One of the landings in Mountjoy. Photo: Gerry Mooney A PRISON OFFICER in Mountjoy Prison is in garda custody today following the seizure of a major stash of drugs at a property in north Dublin. The officers address was raided by officers on Thursday evening and a substantial quantity of drugs in pill form were recovered. Sources said there is widespread shock in the Dublin prison today where the officer had been based for the past number of years. The officers arrest follows that of several other staff members working in Dublin prisons over the past 12 months. Contacted for comment, a spokesperson for the Irish Prison Service said: It would not be appropriate for the Irish Prison Service to comment on matters relating to any individual staff member. The Irish Prison Service sets high standards in respect of its staff and requires that all staff carry out their duties with integrity, commitment and professionalism. The vast majority of staff adhere to these standards at all times. In circumstances where the conduct of a staff member does fall below the high standards expected, this is treated with the utmost seriousness in accordance with the Civil Service Code of Discipline. This evening, a Garda spokesperson said gardai from the Dublin Crime Response Team (DCRT) conducted a search under warrant at a residence in Ballymun, Dublin 11, on Thursday, February 8. The spokesperson confirmed that in excess of 2,000 of controlled drugs in tablet form were seized in addition to 1,200 in cash. "A man in his 30s has been arrested in connection with this seizure and he is currently being detained under the provisions of Section 2 of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act 1996 at a Dublin City Garda Station, the Garda spokesperson said. All of the drugs seized will be sent to Forensic Science Ireland (FSI) for analysis. Gardai added that investigations are ongoing. They were detained yesterday morning during a series of garda raids at locations in Ballymun in north Dublin and Tuam, Co Galway. The men are being questioned at garda stations in Co Roscommon in relation to multiple offences of stealing power tools from vans. Photo: Getty Images Three men suspected of stealing more than 600,000 worth of power tools from vans across the country have been arrested. The men, who are related to each other, are believed to be key figures in an organised crime gang involved in the theft of equipment from vehicles used by tradespeople. They were detained yesterday morning during a series of garda raids at locations in Ballymun in north Dublin and Tuam, Co Galway. The arrests followed an operation carried out by detectives based in Sligo, Roscommon, Meath, Westmeath and Dublin. Gardai had studied hundreds of hours of CCTV footage before the operation. The three men arrested were being questioned last night at garda stations in Co Roscommon in relation to multiple offences. They are suspected of being involved in the theft of 100,000 worth of high-powered tools from work vans in recent months alone. This includes incidents in Kilkenny last week in which thousands of euro worth of power tools were stolen in nine van break-ins. One vehicle was parked outside Hotel Kilkenny when it was broken into, while eight were targeted outside the Hoban Hotel nearby. Two other vans were damaged in attempted break-ins, but nothing was taken. The gang is based in Ballymun, but its members have strong connections to Co Galway and other parts of rural Ireland. This has enabled them to identify and target vehicles containing high-value tools. A criminal in his 60s, who is related to the men in custody, is understood to be the most senior figure in the gang. However, he has not yet been arrested in connection with the investigation. An uncle and his nephew under investigation have over 500 convictions between them. The nephew was arrested in Ballymun, and officers are now seeking to detain his uncle. During an incident last month, a man was assaulted in Enfield, Co Meath, when he tried to tackle thieves who stole tools from him. In the space of a couple of days last month, the gang are suspected of stealing 12,000 worth of tools in Ashbourne, Co Meath. This was shortly after 1,600 worth of equipment was stolen from a van in Dunboyne, also Co Meath. As part of the same crime spree, 7,000 worth of tools was stolen from a location in Carbury, Co Kildare. Detectives have established that one arm of the gang is involved in stealing the tools while the other sells them, often at markets and on both sides of the Border. The former Shipwright pub on Thorncastle Street in Ringsend, Dublin, was gutted by fire on New Years Eve Three people arrested in connection with an arson attack on a former pub in Dublin have been released without charge. In a statement this morning, gardai said all three, including a woman aged in her 20s, and two men, aged in their 30s and 50s, who were arrested during an operation in Dublin on February 8, as part of this investigation, have been released without charge. Files will now be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions. The former Shipwright pub on Thorncastle Street in Ringsend, Dublin, was gutted by fire on New Years Eve. The three are not known to gardai for involvement in any form of serious criminality. Four searches were carried out yesterday in Ringsend, leading to the three arrests. It is understood that clothing as well as electronic devices were seized. The Shipwright pub and guesthouse was being renovated to provide emergency accommodation for homeless families at the time of the arson attack. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said a number of raids had been carried out as part of a garda operation following arson attacks on asylum centres and properties earmarked for such use, or rumoured so. There is a very significant operation under way, Mr Varadkar said on Newstalks The Pat Kenny Show yesterday morning. Arson is a very serious crime, punishable by up to 10 years in prison. The Taoiseach said we need to catch the people who are carrying out arson attacks. He added that, as he understands it, the attacks are not the work of one gang travelling around the country. Theyre different in nature, he said. There are some who are doing it opportunistically, others who are connected to extreme and racist views who are more organised in what theyre doing. Mr Varadkar speculated that a lot of planning went into the burning down of St Brigids Nursing Home in Crooksling near the Dublin-Wicklow border last weekend. That was a big building to burn down and took a degree of knowledge, he said. In other places, it hasnt been arson on that scale. People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy told the Dail we are witnessing a campaign of far-right terrorism. Speaking under privilege, he named three individuals present at protests outside buildings that had been earmarked for asylum-seekers and were subsequently targeted in arson attacks. People like [three named alleged far-right activists] are quick to the scene. A few days later, it is burned down, Mr Murphy said. We should call what we are seeing what it is. We are witnessing a campaign of far-right terrorism in this state. We have seen 26 arson attacks in the last five years against premises rumoured to be used for asylum-seekers. What has been the response? Almost nothing. Nobody charged. Fiddling while the country burns. We finally have three arrests for arson. In a statement released today, gardai said: Two males, aged in their 30s and 50s, who were also arrested during an operation in Dublin on 8th February 2024, as part of this investigation, have been released without charge. An Garda Siochana continues to appeal to anyone with information in relation to this investigation to contact Irishtown Garda Station at 01 666 9600, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station. Additionally, An Garda Siochana appeals to anyone with information on any other reported incidents of arson to come forward. Information can be provided through the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or by contacting any member of An Garda Siochana. The three arrests bring to 10 the total number of people detained and questioned for arson attacks in recent months. Five people have been arrested and detained as part of the investigation into criminal damage and public order incidents on Sandwith Street in Dublin on May 12 last year. Two other people have been arrested and charged before the district court in Kerry. This followed gardai investigating alleged criminal damage to a residential building in Killarney on New Years Day. In addition, four searches have been carried out by gardai investigating criminal damage to the Ross Lake Hotel in Co Galway. I described him by explaining that he looked like Chubbsy Uubbsy from the Little Rascals Two men with Irish accents claiming to be roofers arrested in US This is the moment an alleged Irish scammer was caught on camera in the US as he went door-to-door in a quiet suburban street illegally soliciting for work. Patrick Quinn was one of two men with Irish accents who were arrested in Westchester County, New York, last month following complaints about aggressive door-to-door solicitation. In the footage, recorded on a homeowners doorbell camera, Quinn can be seen approaching the property before opening a screen door and pressing the bell. He looks around and over his shoulder before appearing to gesture at the door. A Harrison Police notice regarding the two men The homeowner who recorded the footage described in a Facebook post how the man came to our house knocking on the door. He told (name withheld) he saw a hole in our roof. He tried to get (name withheld) out of the house. I went to the door and asked to see his solicitors permit. He said he applied for it and I told him you cant go door to door without it. Told me he didnt have one. I asked him if he had a contractors license. He told me he didnt. I have him on video. I called the police and they had already received another call. I described him by explaining that he looked like Chubbsy Uubbsy from the Little Rascals. There have been groups of Irish Gypsies coming into to town every few years and they scam the residents. Because of no bail well probably never see them again. Theyll just go to another state. I saw that they had their truck towed. I believe if my wife left the house the other guy would have tried to get in the house and rob us. Harrison Police Department said both men who have "ties to Ireland" were stopped and charged with soliciting without a permit, which is a violation of Harrison town code. Harrison police said the two UK nationals admitted that they did not have a permit to solicit, nor licenses or permits to perform any home improvement work. A Harrison resident had called police to report that while she was at home, an unknown man entered her home without her consent and attempted to solicit roofing work. According to the Daily Voice, police soon arrived at the home and found 20-year-old Patrick Quinn and 26-year-old Thomas Stokes, trying to solicit roofing work from other Harrison residents as well. While speaking to the pair, who both had Irish accents, officers learned that they were from the UK and had only been in the US for a short amount of time. They claimed they were roofers but did not have a permit to solicit, nor licenses or permits to perform any home improvement work. Quinn and Stokes were charged with soliciting without a permit and Quinn was also charged with second degree criminal trespass. Harrison police said that both men were issued summonses, processed, and released on their own recognisance. Why dont you resign and let someone competent deliver? Minister Eamonn Ryan old farmers they could be the "heroes" of climate change policy. Photo: Don Moloney Ryanair and The Green Party had a war of words on X earlier this week Ryanair CEO Michael OLeary has asked Transport Minister Eamon Ryan to resign in a new open letter released today. Last month Mr OLeary hit out at the Government and Mr Ryan for doing absolutely nothing to ensure the passenger cap at Dublin Airport increases above the current cap of 32 million. Mr O'Leary said it was "a joke" that Dublin Airport was opening a new runway at a time when passenger numbers were not allowed to grow, warning that airfares would rise unless capacity can be increased. He said the Green Party and the idiots on the left were effectively taxing passengers while Mr Ryan has a block on the expansion of traffic at Dublin Airport. Michael OLeary Mr Ryan responded by saying that Learys use of language was personally insulting. "That will be decided by Fingal County Council first of all and by An Bord Pleanala and I think it's absolutely right that my colleagues, our local councillors, Green party politicians and others have raised some of the concerns they have." Today the Ryanair boss responded in an open letter, the text of which are as follows: "Dear Eamon, despite your almost four-year tenure as Irelands Minister for Transport, it is clear that you either have no idea what your own Government National Aviation Policy is, or you are determined to frustrate this policy. "I enclose herewith an extract of your own Aviation Policy, and would draw your attention to the following: "The Principle Goals if this National Aviation Policy are to: -enhance Irelands connectivity by ensuring safe , secure and competitive access responsive to the needs of business, tourism and consumers. Minister Eamonn Ryan old farmers they could be the "heroes" of climate change policy. Photo: Don Moloney "-foster the growth of aviation enterprise in Ireland to support job creation and position Ireland as a recognised global leader in aviation. "-maximise the contribution of the aviation sector to Irelands economic growth and development. OLeary then goes on to write: "Over the past four years while you have been Minister you have failed to take any action to advance the goals of this National Aviation Policy. You disappeared during the security queues crisis in Dublin in Summer 2022. "You disappeared again while drones closed Dublin Airport on six occasions during spring 2023, and lamentably you have failed to take any action when an arbitrary and untenable traffic cap of 32m passengers now means that Dublin Airport and Irelands aviation industry cannot grow for at least three or four years while you abrogate responsibility for National Aviation Policy to a local Council in Finglas. "Other EU airports are now laughing at Irelands Traffic Cap while they win this growth (some 15m new passengers in 2024 alone) from Ryanair, which your inaction has lost for Ireland. "If you are unwilling to implement Irelands National Aviation Policy as Minister for Transport, why dont you resign and let someone competent deliver this traffic, tourism and jobs growth for Ireland, Yours Sincerely, Michael OLeary. Both Ryanair and the Green Party have been going head to head on social media also, with the Green Party writing: "Time to wake up@Ryanair, there's a climate emergency going on. 2019 - Ryanair joins nine coal power stations in top 10 carbon-emitting companies in Europe. 2023 - Ryanair emissions 20pc higher than 2019. Image posted by Ryanair The airline responded with an image of Mr Ryan appearing to be asleep. "Time to wake up@EamonRyan. Forever asleep at the wheel 2022 - Asleep during security queues crisis 2023 - Asleep when drones closed Dublin Airport on 6 separate occasions Now - Asleep once again when Dublin Airport capacity capped. Eamon,@RTE_PrimeTime is on! The family of Daniel Gallagher from Ardara feared the worst following the horrific crash in Florida just days after Christmas A Donegal man who was critically injured in a road traffic accident in America just six weeks ago has made a miraculous recovery and returned to Ireland. The family of Daniel Gallagher from Ardara feared the worst following the horrific crash in Florida just days after Christmas on December 29th last. He required 24 hour care by a team of doctors as they fought to save the life of the young Irishman. His local community raised almost a staggering 120,000 to help with medical costs and to fly Daniel's family to be by his side as he fought for his life. Masses were also said for Daniel as the entire community around Ardara kept him in their prayers following the accident. But now his sister Fiona has revealed how Daniel's recovery has been nothing short of a "miracle" after he returned to Letterkenny University Hospital on Wednesday. Daniel was cleared for discharge by his medical team at Orlando Regional Medical Centre before being flown into Derry Airport by Air Ambulance. Accompanied by his brother Paul, he was admitted to Letterkenny University Hospital where he will recover from his numerous surgeries. His family said they then hope to get him transferred to the National Rehabilitation Centre for further treatment and rehab on his injuries. His sister Fiona said Daniel's recovery is nothing short of a miracle and thanked all those who said prayers for her brother or helped in any way. She said "We are so delighted to get him back on home soil, as we never imagined this would be possible six weeks post his accident. "We thank you all so much for your prayers and kind thoughts. They definitely have made such a difference as Daniel is progressing every day and this is truly a miracle. "He still has a very long hard road to go and at the moment the hospital has recommended that we limit visitors to immediate family only. "We have been blown away by the kindness and generosity of everyone and we have taken great strength from it all." The news is hitting hard. People are somewhat shocked Pictured is local councillor Jim Griffin at the scene. Photo: Patrick Browne The scene just outside Dunmore East, Co Waterford where the body of a six year old boy was discovered in a car A local priest has said the news is hitting hard following the death of a six year old child in Waterford in suspicious circumstances. Gardai and paramedics were called to a rural property outside Dunmore East in Waterford late on Thursday evening amid concerns for the welfare of the occupants of a house. A six year old boy was discovered unresponsive in a car parked not far from the property. A woman, who is known to the child, was discovered at the scene. The woman, in her late thirties, was arrested at the scene and was brought to a Waterford Garda Station for questioning. She is being detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984. She was given emergency medical treatment at the scene and will also receive treatment while in Garda custody. Desperate efforts were made at the scene by paramedics to assist the unresponsive child. The youngster was rushed to University Hospital Waterford (UHW) where, despite efforts by doctors to stabilise the child's condition, the boy was pronounced dead shortly after 2am today. Gardai have sealed off the scene to allow for a full forensic and technical examination. The initial property is located at Rathmoylan outside Dunmore East and just over 20km from Waterford city. The Office of the State Pathologist has been notified. A full post mortem examination is scheduled to be conducted on the little boy at UHW. Garda sources said the nature of their investigation will be determined by the findings of the post mortem examination. However, the boy's death is being treated as suspicious given the circumstances involved. The woman arrested is understood to have been in a very distressed condition when detained by officers. Gardai are expected to commence local inquiries about when the child and woman were last seen and if neighbours heard or say anything suspicious over recent days. Dunmore East-based Sinn Fein Cllr Pat Fitzgerald said he knows the area well. Its a country rural community, just living out on the coast there, he said. It would be sparsely populated. There are little clusters of houses. Its a very, very, unfortunate thing to happen. God help those people. Theres a little cove down there. Its a beautiful little place. Its idyllic. Its coastal Ireland with little cottages and chalets. Its real rural Ireland, rural Waterford. Councillor Fitzgerald said that although its a scenic area, not many tourists would be there at this time of year. There would have been people living there that I wouldnt have known. There were a few families living there, renting properties there. Councillor Fitzgerald said there was a sense of shock in the locality and its a terrible thing to happen in any community. We dont know what happened. Our thoughts go out to the family. Its the last thing I would have expected to hear in that community. Its the worst news I could have heard this morning, or anybody around could have heard. Its the last thing we expected. This is very, very, unusual to say the least. "Anybody would be shocked, when they hear something like this, he added. Fr Richard OHalloran is the parish priest of St Marys Church, Carbally. News was still breaking when Fr OHalloran extended his condolences to the family and the community. The news is breaking slowly, he said. Having spoken to a number of people already this morning, most certainly people are all shocked to hear it. This is the second incident in recent times involving the tragic death of a young child that the locality has been dealing with, he said. Father OHalloran recently spoke at the Funeral Mass of Kobi Macharia Dooly, whose death in London sent shockwaves through the community in Tramore and beyond. The Dooly family brought Kobi back to Tramore to his paternal home, before his burial in England. Its another death of a young child in obviously distressing circumstances, said Fr OHalloran. The news is hitting hard. People are somewhat shocked. It is a country area that is out of the way. Theres a small little beach there. Thats really it. Theres a little walkway off of the beach around the coastline a little bit as well. If a number of cars went down there, they would nearly be in each others way, he said. Locals know it well, and would use it for swimming and for other activities. If you werent from the area, you probably wouldnt find it, added Fr OHalloran. More to follow Luxembourg actress Vicky Krieps will play Sophie and was in Dublin last week Ian Bailey who was convicted in absentia of the murder of the French film producer, Sophie Toscan du Plantier Love/Hate star John Connors is the latest big name to be drafted into Jim Sheridans new docudrama on the Sophie Toscan du Plantier killing. The Sunday World can reveal the controversial actor has been involved in the process of shooting several scenes for Re-creation, which will focus on the last moments of the French film producer before she was killed in Co. Cork in December 1996. Luxembourg actress Vicky Krieps will play Sophie and was in Dublin last week working on a separate film project, in which she is starring alongside Cate Blanchett and Charlotte . Actress Vicky Krieps and murdered Sophie I didnt get to meet Vicky while she was in Dublin as I was in Portugal, Jim told us. She is a great actress and a pleasure to work with. The Oscar-nominated director said he and co-writer David Merriman are currently in the process of editing the script and it will have a cinema release later this year. Asked who was playing Ian Bailey, the chief suspect in the case who died last month, Jim replied: We dont have anyone yet. When asked who he would like to Bailey, he chuckled: Im not going to answer that because then they wont do it. Ian Bailey who was convicted in absentia of the murder of the French film producer, Sophie Toscan du Plantier Jim, who fronted a documentary series Murder at the Cottage on the killing, recently claimed he believes Bailey was innocent of the murder. I dont really want to get into this again, he stormed. When it was put to him that it has emerged that Bailey was accused of domestic violence against a previous partner in England (as well as his former long term partner Jules Thomas in Co. Cork), he fumed: Hes dead. You cant libel a dead man. Im not getting into that. The documentary segments of Re-creation were shot last summer in Ireland, France and US and blended with dramatic scenes shot on a sound stage in Luxembourg. Sheridan will use fiction to question the truth of the case, acting as protagonist in front of the camera with a dramatic recreation of Sophie. Jim Sheridan Call it obsession. Call it anger. Call it justice. Call it what you want. I am still on a quest for Sophie, Sheridan previously said of his motivation for the film. Sheridan has been nominated for six Oscars and his credits include My Left Foot (1989), The Field (1990), and In the Name of the Father (1993), plus The Boxer (1997), In America (2003), and Brothers (2009). Merriman directed the award-winning documentary The State Of Being Human in 2014 and the documentary concert film Rock Against Homelessness for Virgin. John Connors is the first Irish Traveller director and is an actor, screenwriter, documentary filmmaker, playwright and human rights activist. He is best known for his role as Patrick Ward in Love/Hate, as well as Cardboard Gangsters in which he won best actor at the 2018 Irish Film and Television Awards (IFTA). His directorial debut was in 2016 with John Connors, The Travellers, which won the 2018 IFTA for best documentary series. However, in a sickening twist, the memorial was returned to the grave in the dead of night last Sunday with the original inscription scored out and a pro-republican message carved into the back of the stone. John Doherty was the first RUC officer to be murdered in the Republic of Ireland during the Troubles. Willie and Terry Doherty, the brothers of an RUC officer killed by the IRA, tell of their hurt after a memorial stone stolen from his grave was returned with an up the Ra inscription. Terry Doherty with the memorial stone for his brother John that was returned with a republican inscription. Willie Doherty struggles to understand the mentality of the IRA-supporting vandals who attacked his murdered brothers grave. They couldnt let him live and now they cant let him rest, he says as he stares at the bizarre destruction of a memorial in honour of his brother. John Doherty, an RUC officer based in Omagh, was shot dead by the IRA as he visited his mothers home in his native Donegal in October 1973. The 31-year-old Catholic was the first RUC officer to be killed in the Republic during the Troubles. Last year, to mark the 50th anniversary of his death, Johns family placed a marble memorial at the grave in the village of Castlefinn, where he is buried with other family members. Members of the RUC George Cross Association, which was set up to remember murdered officers, took part in the event. However, within a few days, the memorial was stolen. The RUC organisation offered to replace it but the Doherty family did not want this and believed the memorial would never be seen again. However, in a sickening twist, the memorial was returned to the grave in the dead of night last Sunday with the original inscription scored out and a pro-republican message carved into the back of the stone. It read: Remember all the victims of the RUC collusive behaviour with loyalist paramilitaries. RUC/PSNI Sectarian Police enforcing British rule in Ireland not welcome. Up the IRA. Willie and his family are disgusted at this latest attack on his brothers grave. It doesnt matter what religion or creed or class you come from, the dead should be allowed to rest in peace, he told the Sunday World. John Doherty was the first RUC officer to be murdered in the Republic of Ireland during the Troubles. John Doherty had served in the Metropolitan Police in England for two years before returning to Northern Ireland in 1969 as the Troubles broke out. He was first stationed in Belfast and then in Omagh, where he was a member of the CID. On October 28, 1973, he crossed the border to visit his widowed mother, Annie, at the family home in Ballindrait. He and his girlfriend were targeted by an IRA gang as he turned his car in a narrow laneway. His mother rushed out and found him lying in the car. Johns girlfriend was injured but survived. Nobody has ever been convicted of the policemans murder. Another of Johns brothers, Terry, revealed they found out about the return of the memorial stone to his grave last weekend through social media. We could not believe it when we saw what they had done with the memorial. No graveyard should be invaded like that, he said. We actually thought the memorial would never be returned after it was stolen. We thought it was gone forever. While upset at the attack, Terry said it would not stop them from honouring his brother. I can assure them that their vandalism only goes to strengthen the resolve of the Doherty family, he said. On October 28, 2024, we will mark the 51st anniversary of Johns murder by terrorists with a family gathering here at this sacred spot to honour Johns memory with another service of remembrance. John will never be forgotten. Terry said his family were thankful for great support they have received from both sides of the border in recent days. Many people stand united with our family. This is not going to silence the Dohertys. We will never forget John and his fallen colleagues, including those in the PSNI. We will always remember them. When asked if he had any suspicious on where the culprits came from, Terry said: We will leave that to the gardai to investigate. You can have your assumptions but well leave that to the gardai. Gardai have appealed for anyone with information about the theft of the memorial stone or who noticed suspicious activity around Castlefinn cemetery to contact officers. The attack on the memorial stone has been condemned by a victims group which works closely with the Doherty family. Willie and Terry Doherty, the brothers of an RUC officer killed by the IRA, tell of their hurt after a memorial stone stolen from his grave was returned with an up the Ra inscription. Kenny Donaldson, director of South East Fermanagh Foundation, said it was difficult to believe how someone could target a grave in such a way. Just as previously, the Doherty family have shown immense restraint in how they have responded to this latest outrage, he said. Those who desecrate the memory or the dead are sub-human. It is important that the local community rally behind the Dohertys and that they also assist An Garda Siochana to apprehend those responsible. There is something particularly dark about those who would willfully disturb a respectful memorial to the dead, incorporated within the grounds of a church. Mr Donaldson added: No matter how hurt, annoyed or frustrated an innocent victim/survivor would ever feel when confronted with memorials to terrorists, mainly erected without planning permission and often in public and shared spaces, they nevertheless would never touch such memorials; they would not attack it with paint, they would not otherwise deface it, nor would they steal/remove it. What does it say about the psychology of those able to do so? The ideology they signal to represents a death cult, there is no honour whatsoever in the murder of your neighbour and the continued psychological terrorism inflicted upon their surviving relatives. The Sunday World has learned that Kenny, who briefly joined a local church in a bid to avoid going to prison Drug thug James Kenny has teamed up with former enemy Paul Gray to sell drugs in Ballymena. The Sunday World has learned that Kenny, who briefly joined a local church in a bid to avoid going to prison, has settled long-standing differences with the ex-UVF boss who was once one of the citys biggest drug dealers. Last year we revealed how Kennys prayers were answered when a judge allowed him to walk free despite being caught on camera dishing out a savage beating to a woman. Instead of serving a single day behind bars, the 60-year-old coke-dealing criminal was handed a suspended sentence after unleashing a brutal attack on the woman in November 2022. On top of a five-month prison sentence suspended for two years, Kenny was also handed a two-year restraining order. We revealed recently how he had been doing volunteer work at a church, with many in the town believing he was putting on an act to impress the court. Ex-UVF boss Paul Gray Pictures of him sweeping the streets and doing other odd jobs for the community were posted on social media in the run-up to his sentencing so he could tell the court he had turned his life around. Now, sources in Ballymena have confirmed hes back to his old ways and has teamed up with notorious drug boss Gray. Kenny ditched the church and the only work hes doing now is selling cocaine for Paul Gray, said a source. As soon as he walked free from court, he was finished with the church stunt. It was all an act to keep him out of jail and it worked. He used to hate Paul Gray. They were big-time enemies and would have had a few run-ins, but they now appear to have settled their differences to sell drugs together. Cowardly career criminal Jim Kenny Kenny has few friends and he is basically Grays lap-dog. It was only last year Gray warned Kenny to stay away from this young woman he was pestering. The girl was connected to Gray and he had words with Kenny to leave her alone. Now Gray is allowing it to happen. They are all using each other for their own gains. Its a messy life. Hes almost 40 years older than her and hes just using her. Shes just being used by an old perverted coke head. Its disgusting. Kenny has even ditched the walking stick he was using when he was attending court, according to sources. Strangely, he doesnt use that walking stick anymore, they said. But he has managed to get himself a black Jeep DLA car. He was running round in a 20-year-old banger beforehand. So he gets raided at his house last year, gets kicked out of that house and into a three-bed Housing Executive house, gets a slap on the wrist for beating up a woman and carrying a knife, now he gets a brand-new car and funny enough doesnt use his walking stick anymore. Hes got everything from playing the system. Hell is too good a place for him. Hes no more disabled than my big toe is. Hes whats wrong with the system crack-head dealers on top-rate disability while decent people are struggling. Gray previously denied he was involved in crime, telling the Sunday World once: What can I do about it? I just leave it in the hands of my lawyer. Everyone has a past... especially in a place like this. But Im just trying to survive. Until a decade ago, Gray was regarded as being among Ballymenas top loyalists until he fell out with the UVF. Last April, we revealed exclusive images of father-of-eight Kenny attacking the woman in a flat in Ballymena. The distressing video of that brutal attack shows Kenny repeatedly punch the woman in the face before knocking her to the ground and laying into her in a property in the Co Antrim town. The woman desperately tried to defend herself and seems to be pleading for him to stop, but the tattooed thug overpowers her with a serious of heavy blows to the head. There was uproar last July when Kenny walked away with a suspended sentence for the attack and politicians and womens groups criticised the outcome at court. Alliance party MLA Sian Mulholland said she was writing to the Director of Public Prosecutions, asking for a review of the case. Womens Aid Federation chief executive officer Sarah Mason backed the move, saying: These lenient sentences are not a deterrent for perpetrators of domestic abuse. We need to send a strong message to all of society that violence against women and girls should not be tolerated. We also revealed how his plans to curry favour with the court through his church volunteer work may have hit the buffers after he was charged with having a knife in public. Kenny has had highly publicised run-ins with loyalists and other drug gangs in the last 20 years. The cocaine courier is no stranger to a jail cell after serving five years after he was caught red-handed doing a drug deal with Dwayne Mullan, the ex-partner of Peru drug courier Michaella McCollum. Kenny was filmed 15 years ago by police exchanging cash and cocaine with Mullan, who coincidentally also has a raft of convictions for beating up women. Kenny was jailed for more than five years at Belfast Crown Court after admitting dealing class A drugs. He has a previous conviction for possessing a firearm without a licence after cops found an air-pistol in his house after a search in the aftermath of his drug deal with Mullan. The Sunday World understands Kenny was also a close associate of Ballymena drugs kingpin Noel Johnston who died after plunging 50 feet in October of 2021 when he jumped out of an apartment window when the police raided his flat. Schools have been open for just a few days, but many have already adopted the government's ban on mobile phones before it comes into force at the start of term two. From term two schools must ensure students do not use a phone at school, including during lunch-time and breaks, although there are exemptions. Wellington teenager Nina tells RNZ the phone ban did not go down well when her school announced students must keep their phones switched off and in their bags all day. "I think most people were pretty disappointed when they announced in assembly, you could just feel the energy going," she says. "Kids are going to start using their computers as they would their phones. You can access a lot of Snapchat, everything... I think it's a bit pointless." Photo: John Gerritsen. Wellington East Girls College student Semhar Girmay is more positive about her school's policy, which also required students to store their turned-off phones in their bags. "When we first got the email I ran to my parents and was like 'what am I going to do, I can't do this'," she says. However she says she is already paying more attention to school notices and concentrating better in lessons without her phone distracting her. "I'm not fully used to it, I still catch myself walking into school with it in my pocket, but I think with time it's actually fine." Fellow Wellington East student Seralina Seumanufagai says she initially thought the ban was a bit extreme and she found the first few days difficult. "Usually the first thing I do when I get to school is text my friends 'where are you, what time are you coming', so now it's been kind of hard, we've been trying to memorise each other's timetables, walking around the whole school trying to look for each other. "But I think as time goes on and by next term everyone will get used to it and all the upset students will calm down." Photo: John Gerritsen. The school's Year 9 Dean Shelley Vail says she had already noticed positive changes. "I have seen no cellphones in class at all or walking around school on duty. "A couple of behaviours I have seen that have changed is I've seen more students engaged in game-playing, things like playing cards, and we cycled all the Year 9s through the library as part of their orientation programme and the librarians have been thrilled with the number of books students are taking out and have noticed students are reading in the library much more than they noticed last year," she says. Photo: RNZ. School principal Gael Ashworth says previously the school expected students to keep their phones turned off in their bags "but that wasn't the reality". "We've only had two days where we've had the whole school back and the numbers of cellphones that we've had surrendered to staff have been quite low," she says. "Students seem to be okay with it. "Anecdotally, my take on wandering around the school is there is a lot more face-to-face engagement between the students. "Young people playing cards and chatting." Nearby, Wellington High School is still figuring how it will implement the government's policy and students are considering what it will mean. Some told RNZ the ban would reduce distractions in the classroom and encourage socialising during breaks though one student says they wanted to play games on their phone at lunchtime. Photo: John Gerritsen. Principal Dominic Killalea says the school already expected students to keep phones away during lessons. He says it would not stop young people misusing social media in their spare time and it might make it tricker to use phones for learning. "I've had a number of teachers come to me and talk about the particular applications that they use with mobile technology," he says, such as students using their phones to photograph plants on the school grounds for a biology lesson. "The policy isn't saying that you can't do that. However it is just a little more difficult when that teacher says 'okay, you all have to bring your phones in tomorrow'," he says. Killalea says the school would consult with students and their families and was likely to suggest a policy that allowed students to keep their phones in their bags, but switched off. South Wellington Intermediate School principal Toby Stokes says it banned mobile phones four years ago, so the government's policy was nothing new for his school. "The students walk in the door. They're allowed their phones at school until the bell goes. Then they need to be locked up for safe-keeping and then they get given the phones back at the end of the day. If they are needed for classwork then they're monitored but then put away again," he says. Toby says a ban on phones was not hard to enforce and the school only encountered one or two students who desperately tried to hang on to their phones. "We wanted our students to be active participants in their learning and active in the playground as well," he says. Secondary Principals Association president Vaughan Couillault says he expected most schools had started the year with policies that met the government's requirements rather than trying to change their rules part-way through the year. He says it might be difficult to enforce the policy during breaks and it could lead to problems if expensive phones were confiscated and subsequently lost or damaged. - RNZ/ John Gerritsen The government confirmed on Thursday it is scrapping an already expired prison reduction target and will no longer fund the cultural reports used in sentencing. It says it is "making good on its promise to restore law and order" in New Zealand, but the Green Party says the decision will cause "significant harm" to Maori in particular. The moves were earlier announced as part of National's 100-day plan, but were confirmed by the government after a Cabinet meeting on Thursday. Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says the Section 27 cultural reports cost taxpayers more than $7 million in the last financial year and led to shorter sentences. Goldsmith says the reports had become a "cottage industry costing taxpayers millions and doing nothing for the victims of crime". The government will introduce a bill in the next Parliamentary session - which starts next week - to exclude the reports from legal aid. Speaking to media after Thursday's Cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon says there is still the opportunity for anyone to bring someone who can speak to their past into the courtroom, but there would not be funding for written reports. "Over time it's become professionalised," he says. The government's announcement also included confirmation "that the Government has scrapped the previous Labour government's target of reducing the prison population by 30 per cent". However, Labour leader Chris Hipkins confirmed during last year's election campaign that target was from the previous term, and the party would no longer have such a target. Corrections Minister Mark Mitchell says there should only be fewer people in prison if there was a drop in serious offending. "This government is determined to put public safety back at the heart of the criminal justice system," says Mitchell. In September, Mitchell had celebrated Hipkins' announcement: Labour "will finally ditch its disastrous target to reduce the prison population by 30 percent". Luxon on Wednesday says it had at the time been "pretty hard to work out what was being committed to" by the previous government. "Whether that was announced in the death throes of the campaign where there was lots of desperation going on from the Labour government ... I don't know," he says. "I'm unclear whether the target was in place, I remember through the campaign there was rumours it might not be, but it had obviously been a long-standing policy and practice of the previous administration." Luxon says the government now was being very clear they were not going to carry on what was seen in the past six years. He says the government was working on a complete set of targets, including on youth crime, violent crime, and reducing time taken through the justice system, and would have more to say on that in due course. National has also committed to further legislation to cap jail sentence discounts at 40 per cent. Thursday's announcement has been welcomed by the ACT Party, with justice spokesperson Todd Stephenson saying the party had pushed to scrap Section 27 reports entirely. "ACT's coalition agreement secured the defunding of Section 27 reports and exploring further reform of how these reports are used. We also secured the commitment to abolish Labour's prisoner reduction target and reform the Sentencing Act 2002 to give greater weight to the needs of victims and communities over offenders." But the Green Party says Maori in particular faced "significant harm" from the decision. Courts spokesperson Tamatha Paul says the government was taking New Zealand "further away from a justice system that treats everyone with humanity, dignity, and respect". "While pre-sentencing background reports are available to anyone, the ongoing and heartbreaking over-representation of Maori in our courts means that it is our people who will be hurt the most." Paul says without the sort of information included in a cultural report, the risk of future offending is likely to be higher than it would be otherwise. "We need a government that will work toward a justice system that restores mana to our people and communities and heals the harms of intergenerational trauma. A government that will create meaningful alternatives to putting people in prison." RNZ The cyclist's results on the alcohol meter. SUR in English Gibraltar Friday, 9 February 2024, 17:22 Compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Telegram A UK national has been fined after pleading guilty to riding a bicycle whilst over the drink drive limit. Robert Harris, 66, was fined 600 pounds, which was reduced to 400 due to an early guilty plea. The court heard that on 22 December officers were dispatched to Bayside Road, Gibraltar, following a report that a cyclist had collided with a pedestrian. Officers then detected the smell of alcohol on the bicycle rider. Matias Stuber Malaga Friday, 9 February 2024, 11:42 Compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Telegram On Thursday, the third day of the farmers protests in Malaga province, the Antequera industrial estate was once again epicentre, where the logistics depots of several large supermarket chains are located. At 6pm, some 300 farmers gathered with the intention of blocking access for lorries again. A National Police riot squad tried to prevent the illegal actions. But by 7pm, the protesters managed to block the accesses to the loading and unloading areas. After a temporary blockade, the protesters tried again, and then a cat-and-mouse game started. By 8pm, the situation was more or less contained. Still, farmers continued to chant their slogans before the heavens opened with rain. We will do whatever it takes, no matter how long. What we are tired of is the situation that we farmers live in, and that we can no longer live off. Two or three more days does not matter, farmer Manuel Cebrian from Mollina, told SUR. The intention of the farmers is to continue with the demonstrations until they see their demands met. These are the control of the entry of merchandise from outside the European Union, the reduction of bureaucracy and fewer environmental requirements. Antequera was not the only area in Malaga province that saw protests on Thursday. Farmers and their tractors were also on the streets of Campillos in the afternoon. And protesters also managed to temporarily bring traffic to a halt on the A-92 Seville - Granada motorway with burning tyres which required the intervention of firefighters. For now, protesters are confident that the transport sector which has announced a strike will join its protests on Saturday. Today, Friday, more roadblocks and disruption has been threatened by farmers. Jennie Rhodes Friday, 9 February 2024, 20:03 Compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Telegram Den Danske Klub i Torre del Mar (the Danish Club in Torre del Mar) has recently celebrated its 40th anniversary. Members attended a party at the clubs Casa Dinamarca on Paseo Maritimo Levante, to the east of the towns promenade. Traditional Danish food was served and the place was decorated in red and white, the colours of Denmarks flag. Speeches were given by the clubs current chairperson, Karen Godrim, and the only remaining original member, Birgit Rasmussen, who has lived in the Axarquia since 1978. In her speech, Birgit, 83, explained how when she and her then husband first came to Spain, there were already quite a few Danes living in the area and in particular in Benajarafe, where the couple first settled, as well as in Torre del Mar and some of the surrounding villages. She said that it was the idea of three Danish friends, Kjeld Hansen, Viggo Rasmussen and Oj Johannes Larsen, to form a club and find a place where Danes could meet and speak together in their own language. First meeting The first meeting took place in 1979, but at that point, Birgit explains, they didnt have a premises. At the end of 1983 or early 1984 (nobody knows the exact date) they found a garage near to the towns health centre and rented it. The club has moved three times since then - to a disused nightclub in the clubs heyday when they had over 300 members and eventually to the current premises in 2013. Den Danske Klub currently has around 140 members and Birgit thinks this is partly due to the fact that the younger generation doesnt think about joining clubs. Its a different way of life for the younger generation. They dont seem to be interested in belonging to clubs like our generation did, she says. It is a sentiment that is echoed along the Costa del Sol in many expat clubs. There are more people during the winter than in summer, when many Scandinavians return to their own countries. The place where Scandinavians meet The club isnt just open to Danes, but as the sign outside the premises says, its the place where Scandinavians meet. You either have to be Scandinavian or married to one to be able to join, but on Thursday lunchtimes and to many of the events, anyone is welcome. The club has a full programme of regular and special events including cooking workshops, a choir, Spanish classes, barbecues, bingo evenings and advice sessions run by Maria Henningsen, CEO of M Consults, a legal advice company based in Rincon de la Victoria. The club also works closely with the East of Malaga Danish church. The club has been an important part of Birgits life. If it wasnt for the club, I wouldnt have met two of my closest friends - one Danish and one Norwegian woman. It has played an important role for Maddie Hjort, who moved to Torre del Mar 21 years ago. When she first arrived she was told about the club and about Connie, the then cook. I went along and she hired me on the spot to work in the bar, Maddie recalls. The club attracts a good number of people to its Thursday lunches of smrrebrd (open sandwiches) and other events. It provides a vital connection to Scandinavia, which, regardless of how long anyone has lived away from home and how integrated they are in their adopted country, any expat will understand that sometimes a little taste of home is good. Heres to another 40 years of Den Danske Klub i Torre del Mar. David Lerma Estepona Friday, 9 February 2024, 17:51 Compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Telegram There has been much surprise following the revelation that a British man has been assigned a salary of 86,700 euros for his work as president of the community of owners at the Torre Bermeja residential development on the New Golden Mile outside Estepona. As a result, Stephen Hills is paid more than the president of the Junta de Andalucia regional government, Juanma Moreno. Of the 109 owners, only one woman has made a formal complaint and she is represented by the lawyer and former mayor of Estepona, David Valadez. "The situation is only now becoming public, but it has been brewing for years. Last year this man received 84,000 euros. At the general owners' meeting in June, under the pretext that his salary should be brought into line with the CPI, it was increased almost to 87,000. One of the factors is the proxy vote. He has the majority," Valadez explained. Foreign owners Torre Bermeja is a high-end residential development where most of the owners are foreigners who only take holidays there. Due to ignorance or negligence, none of the others have filed a complaint. "We are talking about a residential development where the majority have completely disassociated themselves from the day-to-day running of the community. This allows them to enter into arrangements that, in our opinion, are unfair and detrimental to the interests of the community," Valadez told SUR. Hills has also reportedly been exempted from paying his community fee of more than 8,000 euros a year. Valadez said this, and the president's salary itself, went against the statutes of this community of owners. "The community statutes make it clear that the president's role is not remunerated," he said, explaining that the law only allows for exceptional expenses. "There is not a single article that exempts [an owner] from the payment of common expenses," he added. Stephen Hills was unavailable for comment. Chus Heredia Malaga Friday, 9 February 2024, 07:36 Compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Telegram Old wells in the lower Guadalhorce Valley, in the Puente del Rey area, will be reactivated to help combat the effects of drought in Malaga city and the province. Water company Emasa has contracted professor Bartolome Andreo, director of the Centro de Hidrogeologia (CEHIUMA), to study the emergency drought works required for 24,000 euros. The team has already been working for several weeks, with the aim to bring the aquifer back into production and connect it to the water treatment plant at El Atabal. The work is included in the fourth drought decree, published in the region's Official Gazette (BOJA) on February 1. The investment will therefore be assumed by the Junta de Andalucia. In the 1990s, the wells were used by Emasa to supply more than four cubic hectometres per year (that would be approximately 10 per cent of the city's annual consumption). However, they stopped being used due to poor water quality. The whole of the lower Guadalhorce Valley forms a system of aquifers covering some 270 square kilometres. Over the years, numerous boreholes were drilled in the area to investigate the aquifers in the area. There are some 152 water points in the area, of which 10 were piezometers (research boreholes to measure water levels below), 83 boreholes for use and 59 large wells. Most were located on the right bank of the Guadalhorce Valley. The piezometers are located at depths of up to 100 metres, while the boreholes are less than 50 metres and could provide flow rates of around 40 litres per second. The wells are up to three metres wide and 20 metres deep. Tony Bryant Fuengirola Friday, 9 February 2024, 07:13 Compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Telegram The Local Police in Fuengirola have announced that they returned a total of 614 lost items to their owners during 2023, which included wallets, bags, suitcases and documentation such as identification cards and driver's licences, among other things. The figure was released by the councillor for public safety, Jose Luis Ponce, who explained that a total of 2,195 files were processed by the Lost and Found department throughout the last 12 months. The councillor pointed out that within each file there may be a single object, or several, as the lost item could be a bag or a suitcase with different objects and documents inside. Ponce explained that many of these items were handed in by taxi drivers, bus companies. It is very important to remember that the first thing one should do when they lose something is to come to the Local Police station to see if his object has been handed in, Ponce said. When documents are handed in, the first thing the police do is try to contact the owner to inform them that the item can be collected from the police station. In the case of passports belonging to foreign tourists, the police will contact the relevant consulate. Last year, the majority of documents returned to the issuing bodies were from the UK and Finland. Other items that are held in the lost and found department are destroyed after two years if they are not collected. A total of 353 items were destroyed last year. The department is open every weekday between 8am and 3pm. Enquiries can be made in person or by phoning 952 58 94 19. MADRID (AP) Farmers in Italy, Spain and Poland demonstrated Friday as part of ongoing protests against European Union farming policies and to demand measures to combat production cost hikes, reduced profits and unfair competition from non-EU countries. Similar protests have taken place across the bloc in recent weeks. Farmers complain that the 27-nation EU's policies on the environment and other matters are a financial burden and make their products more expensive than non-EU imports. The European Commission, the EU's executive arm, has made some concessions over the last few weeks, including shelving plans to halve the use of pesticides and other dangerous substances. Nonetheless, the protests have spread. In Poland, where imports of cheap grain, milk and other produce from Ukraine have caused particular anger, farmers drove tractors across the country to slow down traffic and block major roads, some displaying signs that read EU Policy is Ruining Polish Farmers. Access roads to border crossings with Ukraine in Hrebenne and Dorohusk, in the east, were temporarily blocked. In the western city of Poznan, the police estimated that some 1,400 tractors entered the streets and reached the office of the regional governor. Protesters lit flares there and placed a coffin, symbolizing the death of Polish agriculture, as well as a manure-filled wheelbarrow with a EU flag stuck in it. There was no violence reported. Deputy Prime Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz as well as the opposition leader called on the EU commissioner for agriculture, Janusz Wojciechowski, Poland's former agriculture minister, to resign. Wojciechowski reacted by saying he will not act under pressure. The organizers, the Solidarity Union of Individual Farmers, said EU policies triggered the protest. They said storage warehouses were filled with Ukraine grain, causing prices to fall 40% in 2023. Demand for Polish sugar, milk and meat has fallen: as a result, farmers are holding off on investments. Story continues Farmers are also concerned that the EUs Green Deal, which calls for limits on the use of chemicals and on greenhouse gas emissions, will result in a reduction in production and income. In Italy, a small convoy of tractors moved across Romes historical center to the Colosseum on Friday morning, escorted by police patrols. Farmers have been peacefully protesting outside of Rome and across the country for days to express their discontent. Italy's Premier Giorgia Meloni has repeatedly said that her right-wing government has already addressed some of the farmers key requests, but many of them feel neglected. Meloni stressed that her government has already earmarked an extra 3 billion euros from the Italian chunk of EUs post-pandemic recovery funds, raising total resources dedicated to the agricultural sector to 8 billion euros. On Friday afternoon, at a roundtable with her ministers and some delegates of the main agricultural associations not including representatives of the protests the Italian premier also agreed to extend an income tax exemption for farmers in force since 2017, but only for low-income earners. Many Italian farmers, however, complain they dont feel represented by large sector associations, which they say are removed from their daily struggles. Later on Friday, a few protest representatives met separately with Agriculture Minister Francesco Lollobrigida, but that move didn't stop a new convoy of hundreds of tractors from starting a procession on Romes main motorway ring road. Farmers in Spain staged similar actions in their fourth straight day of protests. Besides EU policies, Spanish farmers maintain that a law aimed at guaranteeing that wholesale major supermarket buyers pay fair prices for their goods isn't being enforced while consumer prices soar. Friday's protests centered around the northern cities of Oviedo, Pamplona and Zaragoza, with tractors clogging several city streets and commuter roads. In many places, farmers kept their protests going overnight. A group not affiliated with Spains three main farming organizations has called for farmers to move on Madrid at midnight for a Saturday protest near the headquarters of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's Socialist party. The demonstrations are expected to continue over the coming weeks with a major protest being organized in the capital for Feb. 21. Several Spanish media reports have linked many of the protests to conservative and hard-right groups. Police said that 20 people have been arrested during this week's demonstrations. ___ Scislowska reported from Warsaw, Poland, and Giada Zampano from Rome. SUR Malaga Friday, 9 February 2024, 18:21 Compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Telegram National Police in Malaga province have seized 1,868 kg of hashish and dismantled a criminal gang allegedly involved in obtaining drugs in Spain to be distributed in the UK. Five individuals have been arrested. One gang member had an international arrest warrant issued against him by British authorities. In the operation, 45kg of marijuana, 580g of ketamine, five vehicles, eight mobile phones, 2,885 euros, and several false documents were also seized, according to a statement from the National Police. Officers from Fuengirola police station, who are leading the investigation, initially opened it midway through 2023, after first learning of an organised criminal gang which was allegedly involved in obtaining drugs to send to the UK, hidden among shipments of frozen foods. The initial investigations led to the location and identification of several of the suspects, when it was found that they were keeping consignments of drugs - mainly hashish and marijuana - at a property in Marbella. Following these investigations, officers confirmed that they were dealing with a highly specialised gang, revealing their use of false documentation to rent houses and vehicles which they used for their activities, as well as the considerable counter-surveillance measures which they carried out on a daily basis. Over the course of the police operation, investigators detected an increase in the gang's activity over the summer months, observing an incessant movement of vehicles in the house under investigation. At one of the entrances, officers found two cars, one supposedly acting as a "shuttle" and another which had apparently been loaded with drugs, after which they proceeded to follow the suspects to a meeting point in the town of Santiponce, in Seville. At this location, the suspects handed over the van to two other individuals who drove it to a warehouse at a nearby industrial estate. Minutes later, these two individuals appeared to return the vehicle to its original drivers. Frozen brocolli and cauliflower, It was at this point that the officers came on to the scene and arrested everyone involved, discovering 1,868kg of hashish and 45kg of marijuana inside the warehouse, all of which was hidden in boxes of frozen brocolli and cauliflower, which was to be transported to the UK. The gang had created a shell company, using frontmen to make the goods seem legal and to carry out their activities with impunity. The last phase of the operation was carried out in December, concluding with a total of five detentions for drug trafficking, involvement in an organised criminal gang and forgery. One suspect fled the scene of the arrests and was later intercepted, which added to his previous charges those of attacking an officer and committing a crime against road safety, among others. Officers from the organised crime unit in Seville cooperated in the search of the warehouse, which brought the investigation to a close. Three of the arrested suspects have been remanded in custody. Irene Quirante Malaga Friday, 9 February 2024, 10:42 Compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Telegram Police have smashed a hacker group, based on the Costa del Sol, which allegedly made 410,000 euros from fooling parents into believing their children were in distress. The crooks would send a WhatsApp message along the lines of: "Hi mum, my mobile phone is broken, this is my new number. I have to pay for something and I don't have my bank card handy, can you make a transfer of 2,900 euros and I'll pay you back later". National Police arrested 65 people with 15 based on the Costa del Sol, including two of the alleged ringleaders. They defrauded about 410,000, with hundreds of victims complaining to police, according to investigators. Of the hundreds of complaints, investigators have solved 95 cases. Dutch ringleaders The police operation started in February in 2022 when many people in Seville reported a similar incident to officers. It led police to Malaga province where one of the cells of the hacking ring was based. Police made the first arrest in August last year - a Dutch man considered to be a ringleader was arrested in Torremolinos. Officers seized his laptop on which they found more than 500 spreadsheet files which listed the personal details of people previously scammed including their sex, age, country of residence, bank details and place of residence. Documents with nearly 150,000 records were also found. Another alleged ringleader, also Dutch, was then arrested in November in Fuengirola. Members of the gang travelled from the Netherlands to the Costa del Sol to obtain the profits from the lower echelons of the criminal network, whose responsibility was to recruit mules. The crooks did not try to conceal their money and were regulars in luxury hotels and rented high-end vehicles. Police identified 221 people as co-operators in the crime, both nationally and internationally. The operation is still ongoing. How to avoid falling victim to this type of scam: - Try to contact the person by other means other than WhatsApp, and if it is not possible, ask a relative or friend. - Be suspicious of the language or expressions of the person writing to you. - If you have been the victim of a scam, go to a National Police station or phone 091. Antonio M. Romero Malaga Friday, 9 February 2024, 14:16 | Updated 16:39h. Compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Telegram The Partido Popular leader in Malaga province, Patricia Navarro, has demanded that the government suspend the AP-7 motorway toll charges on the Costa del Sol until the C1 Cercanias (commuter) train line from Malaga is extended to Marbella and Estepona. On Thursday evening, in a TV interview co-produced by SUR, Navarro slammed Spain's secretary of state for transport, Jose Antonio Santano, for saying he does not have the necessary information to implement the line in the short term. Malaga is being ignored, Navarro said, adding that Santano would not dare to say the same thing about Barcelona, Madrid or Bilbao. The head of the Partido Popular in Malaga also said, in the premiere of the new season of La Alameda the programme co-produced by 101TV and SUR and presented by SUR editor-in-chief Manolo Castillo that the PSOE politician should have resigned the day after his recent statements. The PP has proposed the suspension of the Costa del Sol motorway toll as it does not make sense while there is no railway line. Navarro said that the Costa del Sol needs to remove that toll to ease traffic, not jam the A-7 motorway, improve road safety and help people get to work faster. The PP leader in Malaga, Patricia Navarro, on Thursday, during a TV interview co-produced by SUR. Marilu Baez Her proposal will be taken by Partido Popular MPs to Congreso in Madrid and will be presented by PP mayors in local council meetings. The leader said she hoped that the extension of the railway from Fuengirola to the west coast will be included in the next national budget and advocated not only that it reach Marbella and Estepona to meet the growing demand due to the increased population in this area, but that it cover the entire Andalusian Mediterranean coast from Almeria to Algeciras. Drought issue Navarro also dealt with the urgent drought issue and warned that it was essential not to cause unnecessary alarm about the effects of the lack of water on tourism. She said, after meeting with representatives from the tourism bodies to discuss the varying scenarios depending on whether it rains enough. If it rains there will be no [water] cuts or pressure drops, and if it does not rain there will be cuts. We know that it is annoying to change operations, but business activity can be maintained, she said In the interview Navarro stressed that measures are being taken to guarantee supply where works have been resumed that were planned 20 years ago, in addition to the desalination plants in Marbella and El Trapiche, or the possible shipping in of water. "Fit as fiddle" Patricia Navarro also made a strident call for another culture in our relationship with water which, in her opinion, must be across the board as the water belongs to no one. Speaking of the many issues that affect the supply for the public and businesses, the PP leader said that the reuse of water from sewage treatment plants was key as well as dealing with the leaks in the network which is currently losing 30-40% in Malaga province, according to her data. Asked whether there was a 'Plan B' to replace the Mayor of Malaga, Francisco de la Torre, if anything unexpected happened to him during his current mandate, Navarro said that the leader, who is 81 years old, still has plenty of energy, adding, he is as fit as a fiddle and has a great team. Olatz Hernandez Brussels Friday, 9 February 2024, 16:58 Compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Telegram The European Parliament approved a resolution on Thursday calling on Spain to carry out a "thorough" investigation into possible Kremlin links with the Catalan independence movement. The text highlights the "deep concern" of the Euro MPs about the "frequent and close contacts between Catalan separatist politicians and Moscow" as revealed by The New York Times newspaper in September 2021, based on information from US intelligence services. It includes a specific reference to former Catalan president Carles Puigdemont, now self-exiled in Brussels and a Euro MP himself. The MEPs' resolution points out that - if confirmed - the contacts between "Catalan government authorities" and Russian officials would be part of "a broader plan" by Vladimir Putin's regime "to destabilise democracy in the EU". Lara Ochoa / Antton Iparraguirre San Sebastian Friday, 9 February 2024, 11:08 Compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Telegram A fishing boat with thirteen crew members on board is on the verge of sinking nine nautical miles off the coast in the north of Spain. The vessel Maria Reina Madre, which left the port of Burela, in Lugo, yesterday at 00.30am, was fishing when, for unknown reasons, it began to sink. Apparently, the 13 people on board have been able to take to the lifeboats and are waiting to be rescued. At 9.08am this Friday morning (9 February), the Salvamento Maritimo maritime tescue boat Orion left the port of Pasaia and is already at the scene of the incident. The Civil Guard boat Rio Sella has also arrived in the area to assist with the rescue work. The Maria Reina Madre is a French-flagged vessel, built in 1987 and measures 25 metres in length. Clara Alba / SUR Madrid / Malaga Friday, 9 February 2024, 16:55 Compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Telegram The tractor protests organised by farmers across Spain this week took on renewed force on Thursday when main farming unions and associations officially started protest action. Up to then, the widespread demonstrations causing traffic havoc which began on Tuesday had been organised by farmers informally over social media. Faced with the protests getting out of control, food distribution companies and employers jointly called for protesters to avoid stopping goods getting to market. "Some companies are already reporting delays and incidents at the entrances and exits of their warehouses in Catalonia, Madrid, Castilla y Leon and the east, among other areas, although no supply problems are expected at the point of sale," they said. Minister of Transport Oscar Puente said on Thursday that he did not expect shortages, although "we will be on guard because everything can change". Reports said the government had ordered police to deal swiftly with any attempt to block the distribution of goods in the coming days. By mid-week some 2,500 people had been identified for possible government fines for the unauthorised demonstrations. "The government is not listening to us," warned Tomas Rojas, finance director of the main association representing farming cooperatives. He added that his organisation had been "asking for a meeting with the Ministry for Ecological Transition for five years" to discuss the sector's concerns over issues including price competition from outside the EU, green policies and the drought. One of the most affected areas this week was Barcelona. By Friday, protests were expected to centre on the large distribution centres in Zaragoza in the north of the country. Attention was also turning to Madrid, where lorry drivers are expected to join farmers in protest on Saturday, "entering Madrid and paralysing the markets". The fishing industry is planning to join further action. Punk nostalgia as The Wasps fly in to Estepona The band, which was formed by vocalist and composer Jessie Lynn-Dean in East London in 1976, have attracted a large following along the coast Tony Bryant Friday, 9 February 2024, 10:18 Compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Telegram The Costa del Sol's most original power punk band, The Wasps, will return to the Louie Louie live music venue in Estepona for a night of late-1970s nostalgia on Saturday 10 February. The band, which was formed by vocalist and composer Jessie Lynn-Dean in East London in 1976, have attracted a large following along the coast, offering their own brand of punk, a style that recreates the exciting scene that was spearheaded by bands such as The Sex Pistols, UK Subs, Stiff Little Fingers and The Buzzcocks. The original group helped shape the exciting movement that took over London almost 50 years ago: the latest lineup offers a uniquely fresh sound that captures the ambience of a rebellious movement characterised by homemade fashion adorned with zips, safety-pins and offensive logos. Lynn-Dean resurrected the band after taking a break from the UK music scene, bringing together some of Malaga's most established die-hard rockers, such as guitarists Martin Hope and 'Perico' Pedro Martin Font; with a rhythm section supplied by drummer Roly Quesnel and bassist Kiko Alvarez. The group performs their own compositions and their show in Estepona will include classic tracks from The Wasps' iconic first album Punkyronics Plus, along with new material from their latest offering, Punk Prayer. Tickets for the concert, which starts at 11pm, cost ten euros in advance or 15 euros at the door. More information: www.louielouierockbar.com File - Advocates for a union for Starbucks employees watch as company founder Howard Schultz leaves a hearing after testifying to the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee at the Capitol in Washington on March 29, 2023. Starbucks workers at a location near Marquette University voted Friday to form a union. The 12-4 vote at the location on 16th Street and Wisconsin Avenue made it the seventh Starbucks franchise in Wisconsin to vote to form a union. Winning this election means that everything we fought for wasnt for nothing, said Xylia Trask, who has worked at that Starbucks for three years, in a statement. Theres still hope for our store and our city. Now, a future exists not only at our store, but nationwide for Starbucks workers to have a dignified and safe workplace. The vote does need to be certified by the National Labor Relations Board but once that's done, the company and workers will meet to negotiate a contract. "We respect the rights of our partners to organize and bargain collectively, and we are eager to reach ratified agreements in 2024 for represented stores," Starbucks spokesperson Andrew Trull, said in a statement. "Our commitment to all partners to offer a bridge to a better future remains unchanged." The workers will be part of Starbucks Workers United and are part of a larger movement with employees at the company to unionize. Workers at that location announced their plan to form a union in December. At that time, employees sent a letter to Starbucks CEO Laxman Narasimhan saying "our cafe has long provided a unique place for students, business, and community to gather in a space that is safe and respectful to all." "Unfortunately, the seams have split and we can no longer provide this service to our community due to gross mismanagement and mistreatment within our walls," the letter said. "We cannot craft the Starbucks standard of beverages when our tools are in constant disrepair, and the absence of necessary items is being ignored." More than 390 Starbucks locations in 42 states and the District of Columbia have formed unions since December 2021, according to Starbucks Workers United. So far more than 9,500 baristas have decided to join a union. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Starbucks employees near Marquette vote to form union joining trend Current Print Subscribers will be prompted to either login to their current site user account or to create a new one. A confirmation email will be sent when a new user account is created, which must be confirmed within three days in order to provide uninterrupted online access through your Print Subscription. Once the email address is confirmed please provide your Account Number to activate your Print Subscription Service. Syracuse, N.Y. The Drug Enforcement Administration confiscated cocaine, gun magazines, ammunition, fentanyl and $15,000 from a Clay man who was arrested in Syracuse on Tuesday. The DEA has been investigating Mario Leslie for fentanyl trafficking since the summer of 2023, according to a criminal complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York. Agents searched two of Leslies cars and his home at Spruce Tree Circle F 2 in Clay after executing a federal search warrant, agents said in the criminal complaint. In Leslies home, agents said they found: 119 grams, or 4.1 ounces, of fentanyl in glassine envelopes and clear plastic baggies Three partially loaded Glock magazines Digital scales and packaging Two boxes of ammunition $10,000 In Leslies 2015 gray Toyota SUV, agents said they found: A Glock handgun 16 grams, or .5 ounces, of fentanyl in glassine envelopes A knotted plastic bag containing approximately 8 grams, or .2 ounces, of cocaine $5,000 And in Leslies 2018 black Volkswagen SUV, agents said they found 16 grams, or .5 ounces, of fentanyl. Agents said they followed Leslie from his home and then detained him at Upstate Market on the 700 block of Oswego Street in Syracuse. Leslie has previously pleaded guilty to criminal possession of a weapon in December of last year and was convicted of criminal sale and possession of a controlled substance in 2014, according to the complaint. Staff writer Timia Cobb covers breaking news. Have a tip, a story idea, a question or a comment? You can reach her at tcobb@syracuse.com. Syracuse, N.Y. An inmate at the Onondaga County Justice Center died Thursday after experiencing a medical episode, sheriffs deputies said. Timothy D. Green, 48, was given medical attention around 2:02 p.m. at the jail before being taken to Upstate University Hospital, Sgt. Mark Schiano, a sheriffs office spokesperson, said in a news release. Green died at the hospital at 2:40 p.m., Schiano said. Syracuse, NY -- Syracuse Community Health just moved into a new, $22.5 million headquarters at the southern gateway to downtown. At the ribbon-cutting in early December, CEO Mark Hall announced the center would be getting a new leader, too. Dr. Ofrona Reid, an internal medicine doctor with six years of experience in administration, took over as interim President and CEO in January. Im an African-American doctor, Reid said. The community needs to see an African-American doctor. This is where I need to be. Reid inherits a vitally important medical institution, founded in 1978, that is often overshadowed by the citys bigger hospitals. The centers nearly 30,000 patients include some of the regions most vulnerable. Its mission as one of 1,300 federally subsidized health centers is to cater to those without insurance. It gets roughly $5.1 million in federal grant money each year to provide care for the uninsured, or roughly 18% of the health centers annual budget. Its a population that Reid says he can relate to from his own childhood experience. One of 13 children, he grew up poor on Long Island and the Bronx, he told syracuse.com | The Post-Standard. He knows the reality of buying dinner with food stamps. Sharing a bed with a sibling. The pangs of hunger that come from having nothing to eat until school lunch. I dont feel a stranger, Reid said of the patients struggles. This is how I grew up. Reid says he got low-income grant money to attend SUNY Morrisville, where he became an All-American Division III wrestler in 1989. (His wrestling prowess led to a full scholarship to attend D-I Manhattan College in the Bronx.) It was a culture shock, coming from New York City to a small Upstate village. But it was also where Reid took a required biology class. And he was hooked and astonished to learn where his newfound interest could lead. You mean, I can become a doctor? he recalled thinking in amazement. Fast-forward a few decades, Reid is now a doctor specializing in internal medicine, with advanced degrees in business administration and healthcare leadership from Cornell University. Hall, the retiring CEO, grew up on Syracuses South Side and went to the health center as a child. He recruited Reid from Oneida Health a few years ago. At the time, Reid became the Syracuse health centers chief medical officer, the same job Reid had held at Oneida Health. Reid became interim CEO this year after the unexpected death of Chief Operating Officer Keith Cuttler in November 2023. Reid and the health center board agreed to have him begin as the interim CEO, but the expectation is that he will eventually take over permanently, according to Reid, Hall and board members. Syracuse Community Health opens its new 56,000-square-foot facility at 930 S. Salina St. It's actually smaller than the centers 70-year-old home, but is intended to provide a better patient experience due to better design.Douglass Dowty | syracuse.com Reids priorities for the health center include trying to reach more underserved residents for preventative care and placing an emphasis on behavioral health. A key part of that is the centers Quick Care, which provides urgent care downtown, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays and noon to 8 p.m. Saturdays. (It remains at the health centers old building, 819 S. Salina St., not at the new building at 930 S. Salina St.) Theres also a walk-in dental clinic with slightly shorter hours. Clients can also walk in during normal business hours for a variety of other services, including eye care, podiatry, pediatrics, OB-GYN, radiology and mammograms, Reid said. Often, it takes an urgent medical problem for people to see a doctor at all, Reid said. So reaching them at Quick Care to teach them about preventative care is essential. For example, someone who comes in with a sexually transmitted disease might get education on safe sex practices and family planning, Reid said. Theyll be scheduled to come back to see a doctor in the future, he added. The center has added about 3,000 new patients from Quick Care since it started two years ago, Reid said. The center hopes to welcome more. Even among regulars, however, keeping tabs on patients can be a struggle: roughly 25% of the time, people dont show for their appointments, Reid said. Thats actually slightly better than the national average for similar centers, he said. The center employs care coordinators whose job it is to check in with patients between visits. That transition space is key, Reid said. The center doesnt only cater to those in its immediate neighborhoods on the South, East and Near West sides. An ambulance diversion program through AMR allows anyone in the county to opt for Quick Care instead of a hospital emergency room, which is often overcrowded with long wait times. And during the Covid-19 pandemic, the health center operated the largest testing site in the county at its old headquarters parking lot. The centers financial situation is more stable than it was a few years ago, its non-profit tax returns show. In 2021, it saw $24.8 million in revenue, with $22.4 million in expenses. That was the fourth year in a row with a positive balance sheet. By comparison, it lost $1.7 million in 2017, records show. Both Reid and Hall know the financial struggles of keeping an institution like the center afloat. But they tried to place it in the backseat to care. The money is easy, Hall said, adding that the challenge is providing a positive experience that encourages patients to come back. I wasnt even going to talk about (money) until you brought it up, Reid said. Its really about the patient coming in the door. Syracuse Community Health is opening its new 56,000-square-foot facility at 930 S. Salina St. The new facility includes an improved, more welcoming breast care center (pictured here), as well as the centers primary care, dental services, pediatrics and obstetrics and gynecology services.Douglass Dowty | syracuse.com Staff writer Douglass Dowty can be reached at ddowty@syracuse.com or (315) 470-6070. Syracuse native Jeanette Epps will launch into space for a mission later this month. A native of the citys South Side, she remembers being inspired by her older brother to have big dreams. He told her that she could become an aerospace engineer, and while being nine years old and not having a clue what that was, she knew that she had the potential to accomplish anything. Now, she is set to travel to the International Space Station. Even with this distinction, she finds time to inspire and mentor young people. She tells them the same message that she internalized in her youth: follow your dreams. She currently serves on Le Moyne Colleges Board of Trustees and plans to maintain her involvement during her time in space. To learn more about Epps and her Syracuse roots, read her story here. With the mission comes much anticipation and a few questions. Heres everything you should know about the launch: When is the launch? The shuttle is planning to launch no earlier than Feb. 22, 2024. The spacecraft is still getting refurbished in preparation for Crew-8s mission, according to NASA. What is the name of the rocket? Falcon 9 Block 5 is the rockets name. What is the name of the spacecraft? The name of the spacecraft is Crew Dragon Endeavor. It was created and manufactured by SpaceX and used by the Commercial Crew Program at NASA. Where is the launch? The astronauts will launch from Launch Complex 39A at NASAs Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Can I watch from home? The launch will be broadcast on NASA Television or at www.nasa.gov/live. You can also follow along on social media by following these accounts: @NASA, @NASAKennedy, and @Commercial_Crew. How long is the flight? It takes approximately four hours to get to the International Space Station from Earth, according to NASAs station facts. Who else is on the shuttle? Three other crew members will be joining Mission Specialist Epps on the launch to space: Matthew Dominick, who will serve as commander, Michael Barrat, who will be the pilot, and Alexander Grebenkin, will be the flights engineer. Has Epps ever been to the International Space Station? No, Epps has never been to the ISS. While this will be her first mission to space, in 2018 she was placed on a mission and was later pulled off for unknown reasons. How long will the astronauts be at the ISS? Crew-8 will stay at the ISS for about six months and are set to come back in late August, according to NASA. What are they doing up there? They will launch to the ISS to perform research, technology demonstrations, and maintenance activities, according to NASA. Whats special about this space mission? Crew-8 is the ninth human spaceflight mission supported by a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft and the eighth crew rotation mission to the space station since 2020. To the Editor: Recent polls indicate that a substantial number of Americans agree with the sentiments of the former president, who says immigrants are poisoning the blood of this country. If you agree with him, I have two questions for you: 1. How many immigrants have you actually met? 2. How many recent migrants or asylum seekers have you taken the time to get to know as human beings? These are important questions, because they force you to reckon with your conscience and your heart, to question the very beliefs that guide your day-to-day existence. But are your beliefs based on vast experience, or just vague, unexamined feelings rooted in fear, disinformation or a lack of exposure to people who dont look like you? Heres a trigger word fentanyl. Did you know that the conservative Cato Institute and other organizations have published findings that most of the fentanyl coming into the U.S. is brought in by American citizens at official ports of entry? Not by migrants. My two questions also force you acknowledge whether you see migrants, asylum seekers and refugees as human beings, or as mere abstractions and stereotypes. How many migrants have I met, you ask? Hundreds, actually, in my nine trips to the US-Mexico border since 2019, and in my volunteer work with farm workers and other laborers who live among us in Central New York. I have had the privilege of befriending many immigrants and asylum seekers who have fled unspeakable horrors in their home countries. What are they like? They are human beings just like us. They just didnt win the birthplace lottery like you and I did. Im not implying you should feel guilty about that. Just fortunate. If you agree with the dangerous poisoning rhetoric, and if this letter has raised your blood pressure, I challenge you to do one of two things: Either go to the U.S.-Mexico border and see for yourself the courage, resilience and gratitude of these human beings, or simply allow me to share my experiences with you. I have given presentations in libraries, churches and art galleries. I dont care if its just you and some neighbors in your living room, I will come and do my best to show you the humanity of the migrants I have met from all over the world people who are now here in America, seeking humanity from us. You can reach me at jamesmckeever3@aol.com. Jim McKeever Fayetteville Write to us: How to submit letters and commentary to Syracuse.com My favorite thing about working for Ashland Soil and Water Conservation District SWCD is we get to be the carrot and not the stick. If youre not familiar with that metaphor, its the idea that a combination of rewards and punishments can be used to get a desired behavior. The original cartoon this metaphor goes back to shows a race between two donkeys and their jockeys. One jockey tries to get the most out of his donkey by beating him with a stick; the other jockey has tied a carrot to his stick and dangles it out in front of the donkey encouraging the donkey to run toward the reward. In our case, the desired outcome or reward is the conservation of Ashland Countys soil and water resources. Other agencies and organizations carry the burden of enforcing government regulations and the subsequent penalties when those rules and regulations arent followed. Fortunately for me, soil and water conservation districts across the country were build upon the foundational belief of implementing voluntary soil and water conservation practices. Ashland Soil and Water Conservation District Cooperators in conservation culture This is so crucial in our conservation culture that soil and water conservation districts across the nation refer to the farmers and residents who they work with as cooperators, because thats just what we are cooperating partners. We believe we can encourage and implement even more conservation practices and programs on a voluntary basis than through mandates and regulations.. For us, that means that whatever cooperator we work with comes into our office because they want to be a good steward. No one forces our cooperators to plant cover crops, use no-till management, develop a grazing plan, follow a nutrient management plan, manage storm water and any other conservation practice or program. You may be wondering exactly what our office brings to this partnership. First, we bring expertise. Our board is committed to providing our staff premier training and certification opportunities. Not only to we attend trainings by Ohio Department of Agriculture engineers on how to design, develop and install a variety of conservation practices, but we also attend industry trainings and events to stay up-to-dated on the latest trends and practices. Story continues And, we gain experience from working with producers across the county; you may plant 300 acres of cover crops, but we work with producers planting 4,000+ acres of cover crops each year. We also are committed to seeking conservation dollars and putting them into the hands of Ashland County cooperators to help them implement conservation practices. That may include providing technical assistance to design and install practices funded by our partners at the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, or it may be coordinating the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy Districts cover crop, nutrient management, grazing plan, log jam removal or livestock exclusion fencing projects. Writing grants, developing new programs It might be writing grants for new, innovative equipment to be used by cooperators in our county. In the last five years, weve received funding to purchase a cover crop interseeder, a cover crop crimper/roller, a small ground-driven manure spreader, and a small, ground driven seeder all through grant monies. Or maybe that involves developing new programs through grants to enhance connections between our cooperating producers and their end consumers by coordinating farm markets or even developing new, innovative educational programs like our now annual Rain Beat on Main Street event. One new program were excited to bring to our Ashland County cooperators in 2024 is the H2Ohio agricultural program. This new, statewide expansion wont look like the agricultural H2Ohio program in the Western Lake Erie Basin; instead, this rollout will focus on smaller amounts of acres per county, be limited to grain cropland, and will only cover nutrient management plan development. The amount of funded acres in each county will be smaller, and the caps for each producer will be smaller as the program begins to gain traction across the state. To participate, producers will be required to develop a voluntary nutrient management plan. The basis of these plans will include using recent soil tests and projected crop rotations and yields to develop nutrient plans that follow the Tri-State recommendations. However, producers with livestock may be required to develop a comprehensive nutrient management plan instead. But dont worry, our staff can help with that. MyFarm system is the distributor of information Farmers and/or their retailers or crop consultants will create an account through the MyFarms system to input their data and reporting information. MyFarms will import information right from your MyJohnDeere account or from your Climate Fieldview platforms. Producers who dont use those tools can still sign up using the same maps used when reporting crops to the Farm Service Agency. And dont worry: our staff is in this with you! We will be setting up work stations in our office and helping walk you through every step of the program, even if you think tech is not your thing. As this program sign up kicks off later this spring, well be sharing more details. But for now, plan to attend out March 21 Conservation Chat: Were Rooting for You at Valley Vista Farm outside of Jeromesville to get the latest sign up information for H2Ohio. And for us, the best part of the H2Ohio program is the same thing we enjoy the most about all of our conservation programs: participation is voluntary and led by our cooperators. Were always excited to work with cooperators who want to help themselves protect the soil and water resources of our county. Jane Houin is the program administrator for Ashland Soil & Water Conservation District. This article originally appeared on Ashland Times Gazette: H2Ohio agricultural program comes to Ashland County via SWCD office Onondaga County Democratic leaders on Thursday night overwhelmingly voted for State Sen. John Mannion to serve as the partys candidate for Congress in the November election against Rep. Brandon Williams. Mannion, 55, of Geddes, won the vote over two other Democrats at the designating meeting of the Onondaga County Democratic Committee in Syracuse. Mannion won 73.2% of the weighted vote, compared to 23.6% for DeWitt Town Councilor Sarah Klee Hood and 3.2% who voted for Utica University professor Clemmie Harris, according to Max Ruckdeschel, the partys chair. A fourth Democrat in the race, Marine veteran Jake Addington of Oneida County, did not qualify to be considered in the designation vote. After the vote, Mannion immediately set his sights on Williams, the first-term Republican who represents the 22nd Congressional District. Central New York and the Mohawk Valley deserve a proven fighter in Washington who puts people over politics, and has a strong legislative record of delivering results, not empty rhetoric, Mannion said in a statement. We need a member of Congress who will fight to protect the right to organize, support our public schools, push back against a national abortion ban, and bring jobs back to our region, he said. Mannions campaign picked up momentum in recent weeks as he won endorsements from 21 labor unions including six of the nations largest and the endorsements of top elected Democrats in Central New York. The three Democrats who lost the designation said theyre not going to give up on their bid to win the Democratic nomination. Klee Hood, Harris and Addington said they would take their campaigns to Democratic voters and attempt to force a primary election against Mannion. Before the vote, Klee Hood cautioned against reading too much into the picks of party leaders. In 2022, she lost the Onondaga County Democratic Committees designation to Francis Conole but made it onto the ballot in a four-person primary election. In that election, Klee Hood fell short of Conole by about 1,200 votes (10,971-9,790). This years primary election is due to be held June 25, but could be pushed back as it was in 2022 if a court-ordered redrawing of congressional district maps is not done in time. Mannion will benefit in any primary campaign by having access to the resources of the Onondaga County Democratic Committee and its more than 500 committee members. Those members typically pass nominating petitions needed to help candidates secure a ballot spot. Its volunteers also work for the designated candidate to help boost voter turnout. Democratic candidates will need a minimum of 1,250 valid petition signatures from party members in the 22nd Congressional District to make it onto the primary ballot. The district spans all of Onondaga, Madison and Oneida counties, and the southeastern tip of Oswego County. The Onondaga County Democratic Committees designation is significant because it represents about 70% of the registered Democratic voters in the 22md District. The Oneida County Democratic Committee and the Madison County Democratic Committee plan to meet separately Feb. 15 to designate their candidates for 2024. Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact Mark Weiner anytime by: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 571-970-3751 MANLIUS, N.Y. In 2021, Terri Sullivan was feeling homesick. After 40 years in Dallas, Texas, the Eastwood native had returned to Central New York to take care of her mother. Upon returning to the Lone Star State, and especially during the Covid pandemic, she began to think about what was important to her, life, family, and her roots. The Taos News delivered to your Taos County address every week for a full year! We offer our lowest mail rates to zip codes in the county. Click Here to See if you Qualify. Plan includes unlimited website access and e-edition print replica online. Your auto pay plan will be conveniently renewed at the end of the subscription period. You may cancel at anytime. Tenet Healthcare (NYSE:THC) Full Year 2023 Results Key Financial Results Revenue: US$20.8b (up 8.4% from FY 2022). Net income: US$611.0m (up 49% from FY 2022). Profit margin: 2.9% (up from 2.1% in FY 2022). The increase in margin was driven by higher revenue. EPS: US$6.01 (up from US$3.83 in FY 2022). All figures shown in the chart above are for the trailing 12 month (TTM) period Tenet Healthcare EPS Beats Expectations Revenue was in line with analyst estimates. Earnings per share (EPS) surpassed analyst estimates by 15%. Looking ahead, revenue is forecast to grow 4.5% p.a. on average during the next 3 years, compared to a 6.3% growth forecast for the Healthcare industry in the US. Performance of the American Healthcare industry. The company's share price is broadly unchanged from a week ago. Risk Analysis You should learn about the 1 warning sign we've spotted with Tenet Healthcare. 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. EV Fan BHPian Join Date: Nov 2013 Location: Chengannur Posts: 207 Thanked: 423 Times Hyundai Kona | A wonderful car with an Achilles heel - For anyone looking at the Hyundai EV's, if there are no EV certified Hyundai Service Center in near vicinity. Lack of EV specific experience/expertise at the service center, can get severely aggravated by the long distance transit for service - The Kona specific EV Gyan thrown around by service personnel, better to know the facts and not to believe them blindly. - Stigma of EV adoption can be quite bothersome especially in face of apathetic service network. And if it is the only car of the household then you are in for hell of a ride. Kindly bear with me as this post is going to be quite long & detailed. I guess a 4 month long ordeal, when detailed enough, can itself be an ordeal. The purchase decision - Why a Hyundai Kona? - Mature & International Product: Almost believed it, till I got to experience a known issue - Stress free service (in terms of competitors): Hoped for it, till my first hand experience here with Hyundai in Kerala - Incredible efficiency: Absolutely, cant get the same KM/KWh figures in the other EVs Unfortunately though, the service entailing the vehicle ended up burying the admiration I had for it. It started in July as an AC failure during DC Fast Charging (critical component for an actively cooled battery pack - Technical info at the end of the post). As per Hyundai service center at Thiruvananthapuram, it was as simple as Compressor & Expansion Valve failure / replacement - a common issue with Kona. Unfortunately post the fix, the sound soon restarted indicating the replaced compressor had also failed (I was to later realize that this was a systemic failure on part of the service center in diagnosing the issue and testing the fix - so bound to reoccur). Another round of a so called thorough diagnosis and careful repair work in September by their more experienced staff and EV expert in Kochi. As expected it recurred, since the same procedure had been repeated albeit a bit "more carefully". But this time, the issue almost resurfaced with a vengeance, it was immediate and far worse than the last time they fixed it. So after a lot of assurances the vehicle is now taken away for a 3rd trial & error attempt in November. The vehicle is sitting ducks at their service center since last 3 weeks and a communication which reeks of unprofessional-ism if not downright apathy (one message in SMS & Whatsapp of apology after calls for inquiring about status). Worst part is out of my spite, I even refused their loaner car. I guess, the social stigma - an idle ICE in the parking (I am most probably not gonna drive it) after boasting about an EV in my family was enough to refuse their loaner ICE. The entire saga has dragged now for more than 4 months, 3 failed Compressors and it has turned into Something that they have not seen before kind of an issue. And all this while, my impression of their EV service, has kind of nosedived. Some of the Key realizations with Hyundai EV Service (atleast the Kerala Dealer) were: 1.) Hyundai EVs will only be touched upon by EV specific centers and None Other. No other Service center will touch it as they are not allowed to open a job card for it. Not for pickup/drop, not for puncture, nothing, they just wont accept the vehicle. So the customer is in trouble if they dont have an EV specific service center nearby and it becomes the customers responsibility to manage the pickup/drop to service center. In my case, since I was in Chengannur, I now had an option to drive all the way to Thiruvanathapuram - 125 kms South or Kochi 125 kms North. 2.) No pickup/drop, no loaner vehicle. Their excuse was "they cannot extend this facility for such along distance". So for me it meant dropping off the vehicle, figuring out the 125km return trip without the vehicle (sometimes unplanned thanks to negligence of service center) and then go back the same distance to pick the vehicle on a later date. Was aware of Bangalore dealers providing all these amnesties especially for critical issues and it had registered as a red flag before giving it for service but then did not bother much. 3.) EV Misinformation by Service Personnel While they were quite knowledgeable, their EV Gyan related to fault diagnosis, troubleshooting and ignorance of customer rubbed me the wrong way. It could have been dismissed simply as irritable, only if, this unfounded Gyan was not a baseline for their troubleshooting and testing. Some of the EV facts twisted to EV Misinformation(felt almost like EV Superstitions). a. Misinformation Kona needs to be DC charged regularly (once in a month) and not sporadically else the expansion valve gets stuck, blowing up the compressor. Fact Kona's BMS can automatically start the active cooling, operating the expansion valve, if battery temperature is above 22degC and vehicle operation or charging requires temperature control. Could not find exact algorithm/parameters. I have seen Battery Care/ cooling kick in even when doing regen (highest regen with paddle shifters pulled). The worst case scenario is in a cold environment if someone only relies on AC charging, then the only way battery temperature can go up is when we do DC fast charge. I think the service center guys want to be on the safer side & issue a blanket statement to customers to do DC fast charging regularly every month, without explaining the facts. Source: b. Misinformation AC fast charging and operating the cabin AC, in parallel, is equivalent to full load testing like a DC Fast charging session. A major failure from Hyundais end, as this testing mechanism masked the superficial diagnosis and the symptomatic fixes they had been doing without fixing the root cause. Fact As stated above, the actual threshold is not publicly declared by Hyundai but I think a low ambient temperature can prevent the active cooling from kicking in during AC charging. As in another Kona, the Battery Care consumption did not show any load under similar condition and the Cabin AC load (in KW) remained the same as before charging had started. c. Misinformation Keep the ignition on while putting fast charger otherwise it will affect AC compressor. Do not put car on charger without turning on ignition. Fact The manual clearly mentions Before charging the battery, Switch Off the vehicle. Moreover if the BMS cannot trigger the active cooling then it would be a critical flaw. d. Misinformation Operate cabin AC while DC Fast Charging otherwise it will affect AC compressor. Fact Technically this will save the compressor but will mask the underlying issue of a failed Battery cooling system. In my case during the DC Fast charging since I was having lunch (and not sitting inside the car operating the AC), the blocked, chiller circuits - expansion valve, led to compressor failure. If the cabin AC was operating the coolant would have been able to flow in the cabin AC circuit and the compressor would have been saved. But I may not have noticed the failure of battery cooling, only experiencing an unexplained throttling down of the DC Fast charging wattage. 4.) Clarifications on Service/Timelines (on service parts) seemed on a shaky ground. While I do understand, that sometimes service entails unexpected delays. It was unacceptable that the personnel were insensitive to the fact that I was coming down a long distance and casually justify their oversight on the timeline for a planned repair. During 1st service, even though I had specifically clarified that if there was any possibility of delay then I would prefer to do it sometime next week as I was hard pressed for time. They promised same day return, but on the day of the repair work, after opening up the car the delivery timeline gets pushed to next day as they now realized it would take longer than a day. (Was an unnerving red flag). The concern was more on the effect it had on my schedule and the unplanned travel (on both the day of vehicle drop and pickup). This could have been completely avoided if the team would have thought over the repair process, accounting for the worst case scenario, and informed me accordingly, giving me also time to plan and schedule the pickup and drop conveniently. Worst part was to put up with their drama of helplessness to arrange for a loaner vehicle. 5.) No proper method to check EV specific functionality -, to ensure if the problem is fixed. The service team would not do a DC Fast Charge post the repair as they did not have a DC charger in their premises and it was beyond their scope of work, this inspite of my willingness to pay for the additional service of doing DC charging. They would rather prefer that the customer travels down 125kms and then take the car for a DC fast charging themselves, just to verify it. And if it fails, then accept the service centers apology and catch a train back home The only test being the doubtful AC fast charging and operating the cabin AC in parallel. test and take their word that the problem was fixed. While this would be the brief summation of my experience with Hyundai EV Service, covering most of the applicable facts. I did try to refrain (or atleast tried to minimize) posting the behavioral or circumstantial aspects which had made the entire ordeal a miserable one. The following portion is for all of the technically curious folks. Scenario Kona has a slightly unique AC chiller system in the way it splits the Battery cooling and the cabin AC as shown in this diagram. Source: So there can be a scenario where the cabin AC works perfectly as it sees regular operation but the battery circuit can go defunct due to disuse. This scenario could basically be due to prolonged periods of non-operation in cool ambient conditions paired with either- - moderate driving styles, so not much current draw - customer rarely does DC Fast charging, so not much current input The obstruction in the second circuit, which feeds the Battery chiller causes the compressor to fail. As per the service personnel, it usually occurs due to the battery chillers expansion valve getting blocked due to disuse. While the first time mistake could be understood as it was a judgement solely based on their experience, the second time ideally they should have flushed the system and verified for any other blocks or atleast a DC charging to verify before handing the vehicle back. The compressor literally blew within 15 mins of starting the DC charging. The worst part of it -this was the 2nd time. I was supposed to check myself and would have, if not for the circumstances. Everything that could go wrong went wrong. They alerted me quite late and I reached Kochi almost nearing closing time. Moreover, Kochi received one of the heaviest rains on 4th November, Saturday evening (officially recorded). I was soaked to the bones as I went to pick up the car. Irked at their testing prowess, I decided to take it for testing myself at the nearest DCFC station with an intention of returning the car if it failed. The moment I entered the road I realized that the roads had turned to rivers and the traffic was crawling(15kms in 2+ hours). So the DCFCs enroute were either impossible to access due to traffic, rain (no shelter at the charger) or outright flooding and dealership had already closed. Frustrated & exhausted (actually was already feverish), I just headed home to test it next day (Sunday-holiday). I guess the fever saved the service personnel as by Monday I was not even able to vent my anger. While I would greatly appreciate any pointers to escalate this matter. This post is more of a reality checkLack of EV specific experience/expertise at the service center, can get severely aggravated by the long distance transit for service- The Kona specific EV Gyan thrown around by service personnel, better to know the facts and not to believe them blindly.- Stigma of EV adoption can be quite bothersome especially in face of apathetic service network. And if it is the only car of the household then you are in for hell of a ride.Kindly bear with me as this post is going to be quite long & detailed. I guess a 4 month long ordeal, when detailed enough, can itself be an ordeal.The purchase decision - Why a Hyundai Kona?Almost believed it, till I got to experience a known issueHoped for it, till my first hand experience here with Hyundai in KeralaAbsolutely, cant get the same KM/KWh figures in the other EVsIt started in July as an AC failure during DC Fast Charging (critical component for an actively cooled battery pack -).As per Hyundai service center at Thiruvananthapuram, it was as simple as Compressor & Expansion Valve failure / replacement - a common issue with Kona. Unfortunately post the fix, the sound soon restarted indicating the replaced compressor had also failed (I was to later realize that this was a systemic failure on part of the service center in diagnosing the issue and testing the fix - so bound to reoccur).Another round of a so called thorough diagnosis and careful repair work in September by their more experienced staff and EV expert in Kochi. As expected it recurred, since the same procedure had been repeated albeit a bit "more carefully". But this time, the issue almost resurfaced with a vengeance, it was immediate and far worse than the last time they fixed it.So after a lot of assurances the vehicle is now taken away for a 3rd trial & error attempt in November. The vehicle is sitting ducks at their service center since last 3 weeks and a communication which reeks of unprofessional-ism if not downright apathy (one message in SMS & Whatsapp of apology after calls for inquiring about status).Worst part is out of my spite, I even refused their loaner car. I guess, the social stigma - an idle ICE in the parking (I am most probably not gonna drive it) after boasting about an EV in my family was enough to refuse their loaner ICE.The entire saga has dragged now for more than 4 months, 3 failed Compressors and it has turned into Something that they have not seen before kind of an issue.And all this while, my impression of their EV service, has kind of nosedived. Some of the Key realizations with Hyundai EV Service (atleast the Kerala Dealer) were:No other Service center will touch it as they are not allowed to open a job card for it. Not for pickup/drop, not for puncture, nothing, they just wont accept the vehicle.So the customer is in trouble if they dont have an EV specific service center nearby and it becomes the customers responsibility to manage the pickup/drop to service center.In my case, since I was in Chengannur, I now had an option to drive all the way to Thiruvanathapuram - 125 kms South or Kochi 125 kms North.Their excuse was "they cannot extend this facility for such along distance".So for me it meant dropping off the vehicle, figuring out the 125km return trip without the vehicle (sometimes unplanned thanks to negligence of service center) and then go back the same distance to pick the vehicle on a later date. Was aware of Bangalore dealers providing all these amnesties especially for critical issues and it had registered as a red flag before giving it for service but then did not bother much.While they were quite knowledgeable, their EV Gyan related to fault diagnosis, troubleshooting and ignorance of customer rubbed me the wrong way. It could have been dismissed simply as irritable, only if, this unfounded Gyan was not a baseline for their troubleshooting and testing.Some of the EV facts twisted to EV Misinformation(felt almost like EV Superstitions).Kona needs to be DC charged regularly (once in a month) and not sporadically else the expansion valve gets stuck, blowing up the compressor.Kona's BMS can automatically start the active cooling, operating the expansion valve, if battery temperature is above 22degC and vehicle operation or charging requires temperature control. Could not find exact algorithm/parameters.I have seen Battery Care/ cooling kick in even when doing regen (highest regen with paddle shifters pulled).The worst case scenario is in a cold environment if someone only relies on AC charging, then the only way battery temperature can go up is when we do DC fast charge.I think the service center guys want to be on the safer side & issue a blanket statement to customers to do DC fast charging regularly every month, without explaining the facts.Source: https://electricrevs.com/2018/12/20/...gement-design/ AC fast charging and operating the cabin AC, in parallel, is equivalent to full load testing like a DC Fast charging session. A major failure from Hyundais end, as this testing mechanism masked the superficial diagnosis and the symptomatic fixes they had been doing without fixing the root cause.As stated above, the actual threshold is not publicly declared by Hyundai but I think a low ambient temperature can prevent the active cooling from kicking in during AC charging. As in another Kona, the Battery Care consumption did not show any load under similar condition and the Cabin AC load (in KW) remained the same as before charging had started.Keep the ignition on while putting fast charger otherwise it will affect AC compressor. Do not put car on charger without turning on ignition.The manual clearly mentions Before charging the battery, Switch Off the vehicle. Moreover if the BMS cannot trigger the active cooling then it would be a critical flaw.Operate cabin AC while DC Fast Charging otherwise it will affect AC compressor.Technically this will save the compressor but will mask the underlying issue of a failed Battery cooling system.In my case during the DC Fast charging since I was having lunch (and not sitting inside the car operating the AC), the blocked, chiller circuits - expansion valve, led to compressor failure. If the cabin AC was operating the coolant would have been able to flow in the cabin AC circuit and the compressor would have been saved. But I may not have noticed the failure of battery cooling, only experiencing an unexplained throttling down of the DC Fast charging wattage.While I do understand, that sometimes service entails unexpected delays. It was unacceptable that the personnel were insensitive to the fact that I was coming down a long distance and casually justify their oversight on the timeline for a planned repair.During 1st service, even though I had specifically clarified that if there was any possibility of delay then I would prefer to do it sometime next week as I was hard pressed for time. They promised same day return, but on the day of the repair work, after opening up the car the delivery timeline gets pushed to next day as they now realized it would take longer than a day. (Was an unnerving red flag).The concern was more on the effect it had on my schedule and the unplanned travel (on both the day of vehicle drop and pickup). This could have been completely avoided if the team would have thought over the repair process, accounting for the worst case scenario, and informed me accordingly, giving me also time to plan and schedule the pickup and drop conveniently.Worst part was to put up with their drama of helplessness to arrange for a loaner vehicle.The service team would not do a DC Fast Charge post the repair as they did not have a DC charger in their premises and it was beyond their scope of work, this inspite of my willingness to pay for the additional service of doing DC charging. They would rather prefer that the customer travels down 125kms and then take the car for a DC fast charging themselves, just to verify it. And if it fails, then accept the service centers apology and catch a train back homeThe only test being the doubtful AC fast charging and operating the cabin AC in parallel. test and take their word that the problem was fixed.While this would be the brief summation of my experience with Hyundai EV Service, covering most of the applicable facts. I did try to refrain (or atleast tried to minimize) posting the behavioral or circumstantial aspects which had made the entire ordeal a miserable one.Scenario Kona has a slightly unique AC chiller system in the way it splits the Battery cooling and the cabin AC as shown in this diagram.Source: https://electricrevs.com/2018/12/20/...gement-design/ So there can be a scenario where the cabin AC works perfectly as it sees regular operation but the battery circuit can go defunct due to disuse. This scenario could basically be due to prolonged periods of non-operation in cool ambient conditions paired with either-- moderate driving styles, so not much current draw- customer rarely does DC Fast charging, so not much current inputThe obstruction in the second circuit, which feeds the Battery chiller causes the compressor to fail. As per the service personnel, it usually occurs due to the battery chillers expansion valve getting blocked due to disuse.While the first time mistake could be understood as it was a judgement solely based on their experience, the second time ideally they should have flushed the system and verified for any other blocks or atleast a DC charging to verify before handing the vehicle back. The compressor literally blew within 15 mins of starting the DC charging.The worst part of it -this was the 2nd time. I was supposed to check myself and would have, if not for the circumstances. Everything that could go wrong went wrong. They alerted me quite late and I reached Kochi almost nearing closing time. Moreover, Kochi received one of the heaviest rains on 4th November, Saturday evening (officially recorded). I was soaked to the bones as I went to pick up the car.Irked at their testing prowess, I decided to take it for testing myself at the nearest DCFC station with an intention of returning the car if it failed. The moment I entered the road I realized that the roads had turned to rivers and the traffic was crawling(15kms in 2+ hours). So the DCFCs enroute were either impossible to access due to traffic, rain (no shelter at the charger) or outright flooding and dealership had already closed. Frustrated & exhausted (actually was already feverish), I just headed home to test it next day (Sunday-holiday). I guess the fever saved the service personnel as by Monday I was not even able to vent my anger. Last edited by Axe77 : 7th February 2024 at 16:01 . Reason: Multiple clean up edits. (Spacing, incorrect small case, minor typo etc.) Petrolhead1209 BHPian Join Date: Jun 2023 Location: Bangalore Posts: 42 Thanked: 145 Times Restored! My beloved Yamaha RX135 That's where all this started Moving forward by 2 years is when I'm born. In the days of the kindergarten my place on that bike is perched on the fuel tank with my feet on the crash guard merrily. As the years passed I became the pillion. I grew up with this machine. Once I finished my 10th Grade, dad hands me the keys and says "Go ahead, ride it". Younger me was very excited. Dad gives me a grand total of 5 instructions on how to ride and I was on my own. 20 mins go by and I'm thorough in riding bikes. Love for the bike grows immensely as I potter around the pocket roads mastering the craft of butter smooth gear shifts. The bike is still in good condition with its fair share of minor scuffs and scratches. 1 year later one of our acquaintance wanted the bike for a day as his bike was being serviced. He brings back the bike with huge gouges on the the top of the tank. Turns out he placed his welding equipment on the tank. Aargh. It was an eyesore. The next year COVID hits. The bike then goes into a garage for storage as a scooter better fit the bill for getting groceries. I had my NEET exams and other academic stuff that year so it sat in storage for a while. This is around the time I've gotten ample access to the internet and outside world to know that what I've got is an absolute gem of a vehicle. I start to realise how well balanced and joyful it is to ride. I'm now craving to take it out but the circumstances are not in my favour. It sits another year in storage. Finally taking the bike out and claiming authority After a long 2 years, in June 2022, I finally decide enough is enough and I need to take it out. I'm stubborn this time with my dad and after a couple of weeks he takes me to the garage where it's sitting under covers gathering dust. Filled her up with a bit of petrol, 5 kicks and she roars to life. The familiar brap brap sound fills my ears, an ode to the good old days. I take it home get it washed and straight to the mechanic to get a check done mechanically all good. The seat bottom was cracked and the speedo was disconnected. Got all that fixed and next was to get the papers in order. She was registered in KL but now since it is to be used in Bangalore decided to register it in KA. Got all the necessary documents and 3 weeks later a new registration number has been issued. She's now road legal. Where restoring this beauty is coming to fruition Entire 3rd year of my college she served me well taking me to and from the metro station with absolutely zero hiccups in the entire year. Fill her up with petrol and that's pretty much it. Come June of 2023 and I have around 3 months before college starts again. I wanted to go all handy man and dive in head first but at this point in life I cannot afford a single mistake on this. Around this time is my visit to Kerala and then my uncles RX135 was in all it's glory completely done up in amazing shape. I was sold. In July I sent the bike over to Kerala via train to completely get done up completely entrusted in my uncles hands (huge shout-out to him for handling everything for me and relaying feedback to and fro from the mechanic to me and back amidst all his work, this would be impossible without him) Here the long wait started. My uncle used to give me an update every 10 days or so. Due to it being the Onam season combined with me not requiring the bike on urgent basis, my project was kept on the back burner. These mechanics were very very thorough with what they've done on the bike. The chassis was twisted ever so slightly to the left so they got that done. All the nuts and bolts were all swapped out. All the rubber parts were swapped. Immaculate work these guys have done. Everything executed with meticulous attention to detail that I've rarely seen. Not a single stone was left unturned to make this the perfect bike. A couple pictures from the rebuild. After all the mechanicals were fully sorted out and ready to go with the engine tuned perfectly, It was time for the cosmetics and oh boy was I excited. Wheels I went for the classic spoke wheel 18 inches. Opted out of the 16 inch rear wheels from the yezdi as they simply don't look good. Got OE from Hero Honda as they are practically the same. Rear tires still have a good amount of tread left. Front tyres were changed to Ceat. Cosmetics Boy oh boy was this the most anticipated part of the whole build. I contemplated a lot over the various colour combinations that I could possibly choose for the bike. A change in color was on the cards for a while but no colors spoke to me as I'd liked them to. A deep shade of grey was also considered but it was just too boring. And didn't add as much as it took away. Emerald Green from the Rolls Royce color palette with metallic flake was an option. But something about the maroon was just nostalgic and hit home. So some inspiration later, a color was chosen. A deep red heavily inspired by Rosso Fiorano from Ferrari. And this shade hits hard. The plan initially was to restore it perfectly to factory condition. But as time passed I got an idea of a OEM+ build. A part of this was the the custom paint shade which would not require a change in the RC. Part 2 was the engine cover and the clutch cover. Original paint is a sort of light silver with nothing special about it. The light OEM silver that's on another bike being restored. Went with a lighter gunmetal grey color to some what compliment the deep red that I'd gone for. Now to decide where all this grey went on the bike. After a lot of thinking, the wheel drums, chain cover, engine components, and the front forks were painted in this color. Sticker set was stock I decided. Considered the RX 100 sticker set for a while but the pinstripe was a bit too minimal for my liking. Told them to lay the sticker set and then spray a final clear coat over the stickers to seal them in. No worries on that peeling off now. All the chrome parts were rechromed fully like the exhaust, mudguards etc. Did try swapping out the instrument cluster but the new ones just didn't look authentic compared to the OG. Key set was changed entirely. After all this came the assembly of all the parts together. This by far took the longest. Painting was finished by the end of August. Assembly took a lot of time. Around a month owing to lack of man power and holidays combined. Slowly but steadily she was built up and towards the middle of October my uncle took delivery of the bike. And she was beautiful. The paint the fit the finish. All immaculate. Instructions received from the mechanic were Speed limit is 40 kmph for the first 1500 kms after which I should get the tapettes and everything tightened if anything has come loose. Tighten up the brake levers and clutch cables etc. For every Rs. 100 of petrol, I had to add Rs.10 worth of oil directly into the tank for the break in period. Another 1000 kms of cautious riding and she'd be ready for life. I was assured that provided I follow this break in period correctly, the bike would be good for another 100,000 kms. Bold statement from them but I'd not expect lesser from these amazing people. My uncle pottered around town for a couple of days so that any errors can be corrected before sending it over. 1 week later, I receive the bike at the Railway Station, filly packed with bubble wrap and foam and old sacks to protect all the gorgeous paintwork. Filled her up with a bit of petrol and she starts in 1 kick. Idle was amazing. The exhaust now was a bit more metallic in sound than what it was before but not a drastic change. The first pictures from when I picked the bike up I've now rode the bike for around 1000 kms in these 4 months that I've had her. And she's smooth. Really smooth. Very refined but still that old timer feel. Everything runs perfectly. No unnecessary clacking noises like before. One kick start each and every time. I've been getting good mileage too. Around 40 kmpl owing to the conservative riding that I've done for the break in period. A before and after reel I made. Quality is much better but youtube compression. http://youtube.com/watch?v=ZBpXiBJ21...UYT0iih7Vohaju Am looking for some upgrades to do. Will list them out below, would love some help that I can get on this Wider tyres for the front and rear. Something about slightly wider tyres at the rear and front is so drool worthy. I'd like to fill the arch a bit more at the rear. Am running 18 inch spoke wheels so kindly suggest which tyres I should get Something to do with the headlight. I don't do much of night riding but still there is a severe lack of lighting. I was thinking of wiring the horn directly to the battery instead of the dynamo because I've got no horn at idle. Need some guidance on how to go about this. PPF or ceramic coating. Since the paint is relatively fresh, how long do you guys recommend before I add a protective layer on the paint. Mainly the tank is what I'm looking for. Am just using the Turtle Wax Spray Ceramic to make it easier to clean. This build was a restoration of sentiments - a repository of countless stories. To me this thing is not any ordinary 2 stroke legend, it's a blast from the past. A diary book of my life from childhood to adulthood. Some of my favourite shots About the Bike Engine/Gearbox : A singular kick and the engine comes to life. Pull the clutch in and slot the not so smooth gearbox into 1st gear. And immediately shift to 2nd because 1st gear is really really short. Move into second a pretty normal gear length. And then third. This is like a CVT gearbox from a scooter. You want to do 20 kmph as you creep around the bustling town. Done deal. You want to fly past at 75 kmph. Also no problem. Shift into 4th and it pulls all the way to 100 where the fun stops. Brakes Spongy to say the least. Gets the job done but don't feel the necessity to upgrade to discs because I mainly cruise on the bike and enjoy the sounds. Weight Barely weighs anything. Give it the nimble character that I love. Also very very narrow but the OG butterfly crash guard adds a lot to the width Ergonomically really good. Everything is really well placed and not straining. Seat is not the most comfortable. Looking into changing the upholstery Tank capacity and fuel economy : Tank Capacity is 12 litres I think or 11.5. Not sure. Get a fuel economy of around 36 kmpl with plenty of open throttle overtakes and spirited riding Final Note The sounds, the vibrations, all the little details is what makes her special in my heart. I have received a bunch of compliments and lucrative offers for the vehicle at signals and parking lots, but as some of you might relate, I cannot bring myself to let her go. Deep in my heart I do want to own something modern to the likes of the Interceptor, but I don't want to do that at the cost of this gem. I guess it's back to saving money up for a while. She's now back to commuting to and from the Metro Station with the occasional cheeky 60 km round trip to college and back. Does that put a slight dent in my pocket. Yes. Around 100% more than if I use the metro but I do not mind the extra expense on an occasional spirited ride. She runs like absolute clockwork giving me no problem in any aspect whatsoever. She can be a cruiser, a looker, a screaming 2 stroke at any instance you want. College run Achieved a long time dream with this build. Looking forward to your expert opinions. Winding back to the year 1999, a time when I wasn't born, my dad's friend placed a booking for the RX 135. Waiting period was around 6 months at that time. 5 months in the guy needs some cash. But the name cannot be changed before delivery of the vehicle. The vehicle rolls out and straight into my dad's hands where he becomes the second owner on paperThat's where all this startedMoving forward by 2 years is when I'm born. In the days of the kindergarten my place on that bike is perched on the fuel tank with my feet on the crash guard merrily. As the years passed I became the pillion. I grew up with this machine.Once I finished my 10th Grade, dad hands me the keys and says "Go ahead, ride it". Younger me was very excited. Dad gives me a grand total of 5 instructions on how to ride and I was on my own. 20 mins go by and I'm thorough in riding bikes. Love for the bike grows immensely as I potter around the pocket roads mastering the craft of butter smooth gear shifts. The bike is still in good condition with its fair share of minor scuffs and scratches. 1 year later one of our acquaintance wanted the bike for a day as his bike was being serviced. He brings back the bike with huge gouges on the the top of the tank. Turns out he placed his welding equipment on the tank. Aargh. It was an eyesore.The next year COVID hits. The bike then goes into a garage for storage as a scooter better fit the bill for getting groceries. I had my NEET exams and other academic stuff that year so it sat in storage for a while. This is around the time I've gotten ample access to the internet and outside world to know that what I've got is an absolute gem of a vehicle. I start to realise how well balanced and joyful it is to ride. I'm now craving to take it out but the circumstances are not in my favour. It sits another year in storage.After a long 2 years, in June 2022, I finally decide enough is enough and I need to take it out. I'm stubborn this time with my dad and after a couple of weeks he takes me to the garage where it's sitting under covers gathering dust. Filled her up with a bit of petrol, 5 kicks and she roars to life. The familiar brap brap sound fills my ears, an ode to the good old days. I take it home get it washed and straight to the mechanic to get a check done mechanically all good. The seat bottom was cracked and the speedo was disconnected. Got all that fixed and next was to get the papers in order. She was registered in KL but now since it is to be used in Bangalore decided to register it in KA. Got all the necessary documents and 3 weeks later a new registration number has been issued. She's now road legal.Entire 3rd year of my college she served me well taking me to and from the metro station with absolutely zero hiccups in the entire year. Fill her up with petrol and that's pretty much it. Come June of 2023 and I have around 3 months before college starts again. I wanted to go all handy man and dive in head first but at this point in life I cannot afford a single mistake on this. Around this time is my visit to Kerala and then my uncles RX135 was in all it's glory completely done up in amazing shape. I was sold. In July I sent the bike over to Kerala via train to completely get done up completely entrusted in my uncles hands (huge shout-out to him for handling everything for me and relaying feedback to and fro from the mechanic to me and back amidst all his work, this would be impossible without him)Here the long wait started. My uncle used to give me an update every 10 days or so. Due to it being the Onam season combined with me not requiring the bike on urgent basis, my project was kept on the back burner.These mechanics were very very thorough with what they've done on the bike. The chassis was twisted ever so slightly to the left so they got that done. All the nuts and bolts were all swapped out. All the rubber parts were swapped. Immaculate work these guys have done. Everything executed with meticulous attention to detail that I've rarely seen. Not a single stone was left unturned to make this the perfect bike.A couple pictures from the rebuild.After all the mechanicals were fully sorted out and ready to go with the engine tuned perfectly, It was time for the cosmetics and oh boy was I excited. Wheels I went for the classic spoke wheel 18 inches. Opted out of the 16 inch rear wheels from the yezdi as they simply don't look good. Got OE from Hero Honda as they are practically the same. Rear tires still have a good amount of tread left. Front tyres were changed to Ceat.Boy oh boy was this the most anticipated part of the whole build. I contemplated a lot over the various colour combinations that I could possibly choose for the bike. A change in color was on the cards for a while but no colors spoke to me as I'd liked them to. A deep shade of grey was also considered but it was just too boring. And didn't add as much as it took away. Emerald Green from the Rolls Royce color palette with metallic flake was an option. But something about the maroon was just nostalgic and hit home.So some inspiration later, a color was chosen. A deep red heavily inspired by Rosso Fiorano from Ferrari. And this shade hits hard.The plan initially was to restore it perfectly to factory condition. But as time passed I got an idea of a OEM+ build. A part of this was the the custom paint shade which would not require a change in the RC. Part 2 was the engine cover and the clutch cover. Original paint is a sort of light silver with nothing special about it.The light OEM silver that's on another bike being restored.Went with a lighter gunmetal grey color to some what compliment the deep red that I'd gone for. Now to decide where all this grey went on the bike. After a lot of thinking, the wheel drums, chain cover, engine components, and the front forks were painted in this color.Sticker set was stock I decided. Considered the RX 100 sticker set for a while but the pinstripe was a bit too minimal for my liking. Told them to lay the sticker set and then spray a final clear coat over the stickers to seal them in. No worries on that peeling off now. All the chrome parts were rechromed fully like the exhaust, mudguards etc. Did try swapping out the instrument cluster but the new ones just didn't look authentic compared to the OG. Key set was changed entirely.After all this came the assembly of all the parts together. This by far took the longest. Painting was finished by the end of August. Assembly took a lot of time. Around a month owing to lack of man power and holidays combined. Slowly but steadily she was built up and towards the middle of October my uncle took delivery of the bike. And she was beautiful. The paint the fit the finish. All immaculate. Speed limit is 40 kmph for the first 1500 kms after which I should get the tapettes and everything tightened if anything has come loose. Tighten up the brake levers and clutch cables etc. For every Rs. 100 of petrol, I had to add Rs.10 worth of oil directly into the tank for the break in period. Another 1000 kms of cautious riding and she'd be ready for life. I was assured that provided I follow this break in period correctly, the bike would be good for another 100,000 kms. Bold statement from them but I'd not expect lesser from these amazing people.My uncle pottered around town for a couple of days so that any errors can be corrected before sending it over.1 week later, I receive the bike at the Railway Station, filly packed with bubble wrap and foam and old sacks to protect all the gorgeous paintwork. Filled her up with a bit of petrol and she starts in 1 kick. Idle was amazing. The exhaust now was a bit more metallic in sound than what it was before but not a drastic change.The first pictures from when I picked the bike upI've now rode the bike for around 1000 kms in these 4 months that I've had her.And she's smooth. Really smooth. Very refined but still that old timer feel. Everything runs perfectly. No unnecessary clacking noises like before. One kick start each and every time. I've been getting good mileage too. Around 40 kmpl owing to the conservative riding that I've done for the break in period.A before and after reel I made. Quality is much better but youtube compression.Am looking for someto do. Will list them out below, would love some help that I can get on this Wider tyres for the front and rear. Something about slightly wider tyres at the rear and front is so drool worthy. I'd like to fill the arch a bit more at the rear. Am running 18 inch spoke wheels so kindly suggest which tyres I should get Something to do with the headlight. I don't do much of night riding but still there is a severe lack of lighting. I was thinking of wiring the horn directly to the battery instead of the dynamo because I've got no horn at idle. Need some guidance on how to go about this. PPF or ceramic coating. Since the paint is relatively fresh, how long do you guys recommend before I add a protective layer on the paint. Mainly the tank is what I'm looking for. Am just using the Turtle Wax Spray Ceramic to make it easier to clean.This build was a restoration of sentiments - a repository of countless stories. To me this thing is not any ordinary 2 stroke legend, it's a blast from the past. A diary book of my life from childhood to adulthood.Some of my favourite shotsAbout the BikeA singular kick and the engine comes to life. Pull the clutch in and slot the not so smooth gearbox into 1st gear. And immediately shift to 2nd because 1st gear is really really short. Move into second a pretty normal gear length. And then third. This is like a CVT gearbox from a scooter. You want to do 20 kmph as you creep around the bustling town. Done deal. You want to fly past at 75 kmph. Also no problem. Shift into 4th and it pulls all the way to 100 where the fun stops.Spongy to say the least. Gets the job done but don't feel the necessity to upgrade to discs because I mainly cruise on the bike and enjoy the sounds.Barely weighs anything. Give it the nimble character that I love. Also very very narrow but the OG butterfly crash guard adds a lot to the widthErgonomically really good. Everything is really well placed and not straining.Seat is not the most comfortable. Looking into changing the upholsteryTank Capacity is 12 litres I think or 11.5. Not sure. Get a fuel economy of around 36 kmpl with plenty of open throttle overtakes and spirited ridingThe sounds, the vibrations, all the little details is what makes her special in my heart. I have received a bunch of compliments and lucrative offers for the vehicle at signals and parking lots, but as some of you might relate, I cannot bring myself to let her go. Deep in my heart I do want to own something modern to the likes of the Interceptor, but I don't want to do that at the cost of this gem. I guess it's back to saving money up for a while.She's now back to commuting to and from the Metro Station with the occasional cheeky 60 km round trip to college and back. Does that put a slight dent in my pocket. Yes. Around 100% more than if I use the metro but I do not mind the extra expense on an occasional spirited ride. She runs like absolute clockwork giving me no problem in any aspect whatsoever.She can be a cruiser, a looker, a screaming 2 stroke at any instance you want.College runAchieved a long time dream with this build. Looking forward to your expert opinions. Last edited by Petrolhead1209 : 8th February 2024 at 17:07 . What just happened? A court in Germany has issued an injunction against certain Intel processors in the country following a patent dispute against another US-based firm. In a case that could have far-reaching consequences for Intel's European business, a regional court in Dusseldorf ruled that many of Team Blue's older processor lineups infringe on a European patent held by a California-based company called R2 Semiconductor. The patent in question revolves around voltage-regulating technology and is applicable only in the EU. According to R2 Semiconductor, the infringing processor lineups include Ice Lake, Tiger Lake, and Alder Lake for desktops and laptops, as well as Ice Lake Xeon processors for servers. The ruling does not affect any of the current-generation processors, meaning devices powered by Raptor Lake and Meteor Lake chips can remain on sale. However, the case is still a major setback for Intel, as the company and its partners will now have to withdraw existing products that utilize the infringing chips, as well as boxed versions of these CPUs that are still available in the market. While the ban currently applies only to Germany, it's unclear if it will have wider repercussions across the EU. Following the verdict, Intel denied that its products infringe on R2 Semiconductor's patents. It also attacked R2 for its business practices, calling it "a shell company whose only business is litigation." In a statement to Reuters, Intel said that it is disappointed with the court's verdict and intends to file an appeal in the near future. The company also pointed out that it had won its legal battles against R2 in the US, and said that the latter should not be allowed to obtain injunctions on critical PC components like CPUs at the expense of consumers. On the other hand, R2 Semiconductor applauded the court order, and said that it intends to enforce the injunction and protect its intellectual property. The company claimed that Intel was originally interested in paying for its "Integrated Voltage Regulator (FIVR)" technology, but backed away at the last moment and used it illegally in its products anyway. In a statement, the company's chief executive, David Fisher, said "The global patent system is here precisely for the purpose of protecting inventors like myself and R2 Semiconductor." Serving tech enthusiasts for over 25 years.TechSpot means tech analysis and advice you can trust The big picture: 5G technology promised to revolutionize mobile networking, but the world is still waiting for this future to become a reality. Meanwhile, major network operators are making significant progress in delivering additional building blocks for 5G networks. BT Group recently demonstrated 5G network slicing capabilities at its Adastral Park research lab. Network slicing has long been promised as an essential feature of the 5G standard, and the British telecom giant has finally shown that the technology can significantly improve bandwidth and service delivery on next-generation mobile networks. 5G network slicing is a network virtualization architecture that essentially divides "slices" of mobile broadband into independent logical networks. These slices can function as isolated end-to-end connectivity services atop the same physical 5G network infrastructure. Proper 5G slicing requires a 5G Standalone (5G SA) network, which is a fully autonomous 5G infrastructure with no intermediaries or compatibility bridges for previous-generation networks like 4G. To demonstrate network slicing in action, BT Group employed a 5G SA provided by Ericsson and a Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra smartphone based on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC. The mobile device was able to connect to different 5G slices for individual gaming, enterprise, and Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB) network applications, as explained by BT. 5G network slicing can seemingly enhance performance, bandwidth availability, and latency, providing an "immersive experience" in the upcoming 5G SA era, according to BT. The slicing paradigm was tested with an "optimal" gaming experience on Nvidia's cloud platform GeForce Now, maintaining a data throughput in excess of the recommended 25 Mbps rate for 1080p gameplay. BT also initiated a native gaming session in Fortnite, while enterprise use cases were tested with eMBB slices that can provide multiple connections to different network slices simultaneously. The Samsung S23 Ultra test device maintained a "consistent" 4K video stream, thanks to a stable connection and low jitter levels. BT Chief Networks Officer Greg McCall stated that 5G network slicing enables telecoms to "differentiate quality of service" with optimized performance for different market segments. The slicing demo has been a significant milestone, McCall said, and an early sign of the new services 5G SA networks will provide to customers. In the 5G SA-based patchwork of different virtual networks BT Group is conceiving, every single slice gets sold to a different mobile virtual network operator (MVNO). According to Gartner VP analyst Bill Ray, many physical operators are planning to sell slices of their 5G SA networks, but enterprise organizations interested in becoming MVNOs are still to materialize. Setting up a perfect Valentine's Day date night movie or show may be challenging as some titles might be repetitive, but Google TV brings special new content called "Cupid's Choice." The latest announcement by Google aims to bring users the "perfect match" for them, with multiple categories to choose from, all centering on the romantic celebration this month. Through Google TV's latest initiative, users may get another partner to bring romantic feelings to their significant other or for themselves. Google TV Brings 'Cupid's Choice' Curated Content this Valentine's Let Google TV shoot the arrows with its 'Cupid's Choice' curated content available to access amidst the celebration of Valentine's Day. According to Google's latest press release, a new content guide brings a collection of the best Valentine's movies to watch this February, widely available to its subscribers and those who own Chromecast devices. According to the company, this latest offer is its staff's picks for this year's Valentine's celebration, with multiple titles from RomComs, series, movies, and more. The Cupid's Choice categories are now accessible via the "For You" tab or the "Find Your Match" feature that will redirect users to the curated pages. Read Also: Spotify on TV Gets a Revamp, Now Live on Google TV-What Changed? Valentine's Day Google TV Specials: What to Expect Valentine's Day will get busy for those planning a date night streaming, with a variety of choices available, including: Favorite Romcom Favorite Galentine's Favorite Kiss Favorite Tearjerker Favorite LGBTQ+ Romance Favorite Romance Favorite Couple Favorite Twisted Love Story Favorite Puppy Love Favorite Love Triangle Favorite Dating Show Moreover, this latest curation from the company also includes the top romantic movies or shows throughout the years, with an exclusive pre-screening this February 14 for its new movie, A Circus Tale & A Love, on Xumo Free Movies. Google TV and Its Streaming Features The new era of live TV has made its way to streaming platforms, being the most consumed forms of media now, with Google TV among the first to bring this feature to many. Last year, the internet company gave its users a massive boost for what it offers, centering on the updated lineup from the company that offers as many as 800 free live TV channels. In the massive focus of Google that centers on AI, the company also brought these new features for Google TV, one that expands the feature for families to enjoy a wholesome experience. First off, it introduced AI-generated suggestions for kids to watch on the platform, including the new parent-controlled watchlist feature that will help curate the content for age-appropriateness. Replacing cable TV with live television streaming is something that Google has pioneered, alongside others who presented this tech, like Apple, Amazon, and more. The latest offer from Google TV brings a massive list of new content to enjoy, adhering to the renowned romantic holiday season under the Cupid's Choice curated categories, perfect for this year's Valentine's celebrations. Related Article: New Chromecast Google TV Remote Revealed: Here's What You Can Expect From the Upcoming Device 2024 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Elon Musk's recent endorsement of the Vesuvius Challenge project marks a significant milestone in the quest to unravel the secrets of ancient history. By lending his support to this initiative, Musk is bolstering efforts to decode ancient papyrus scrolls dating back two millennia. (Photo : STEFANI REYNOLDS/AFP via Getty Images) X (formerly Twitter) CEO Elon musk attends a US Senate bipartisan Artificial Intelligence (AI) Insight Forum at the US Capitol in Washington, DC, on September 13, 2023. Decoding 2,000-year-old Vesuvius Scrolls The Vesuvius Challenge aims to leverage AI technology to decipher these delicate and charred texts. Musk's involvement underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and technological innovation in advancing our understanding of antiquity. With his backing, Interesting Engineering reported that the project is poised to make substantial strides in unlocking the mysteries concealed within these ancient artifacts, shedding new light on the rich tapestry of the past. Former GitHub CEO Nat Friedman announced an achievement, marking a pivotal moment in the study of ancient texts. Utilizing advanced AI technology and precise scanning methods, researchers have succeeded in unveiling previously indecipherable sections of the scrolls. Employing sophisticated AI algorithms to analyze scanned images, scholars have successfully decoded entire paragraphs, offering valuable insights into various aspects of ancient Roman society and philosophy. Also Read: Elon Musk Laying Foundation for Martian Constitution? Here's What Experts Think A dedicated team of researchers, including former SpaceX intern Luke Farritor and Ph.D. student Youssef Nader successfully unlocked long-obscured portions of the scrolls. Business Insider reported that this emerged triumphant in the Vesuvius Challenge Their tireless efforts, coupled with technological innovation and scholarly perseverance, have earned them recognition and substantial prize awards. This represents a crucial stride toward unraveling the intricate historical narratives preserved within these ancient manuscripts. The successful decryption of a segment of the scrolls signifies a remarkable achievement, providing captivating glimpses into the ancient world and its intellectual endeavors. As the project progresses, researchers remain optimistic that further discoveries will yield deeper insights into the cultures and beliefs of our forebears. Receiving Support from Musk Youssef Nader, Julian Schilliger, and Luke Farritor emerged victorious in the Vesuvius Challenge, clinching the coveted $700,000 grand prize for successfully decrypting fifteen columns of a single scroll from the collection. As the competition gears up for another round this year, a fresh grand prize of $100,000 awaits participants. Elon Musk, through his Musk Foundation, has pledged support for the upcoming iteration of the Vesuvius Challenge. Musk's endorsement of the Vesuvius Challenge transcends mere historical inquiry, signaling a broader exploration of human understanding through the fusion of AI and technological prowess. As per Teslarati, this collaboration between industry luminaries like Musk and scholarly experts underscores the transformative capacity of interdisciplinary partnerships. As researchers delve deeper into decoding the remaining scrolls, there is a palpable sense of excitement surrounding the wealth of knowledge awaiting revelation. With each scroll deciphered, the potential for groundbreaking discoveries grows exponentially. The ongoing Vesuvius Challenge now turns its focus toward unraveling additional scrolls, fueled by Musk's support and the unwavering dedication of researchers worldwide. This serves as a testament to humanity's unyielding quest for knowledge, offering profound insights into our collective past and the civilizations that shaped it. Related Article: Elon Musk, Father of 10, Pledges $10 Million to Population Research Project 2024 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Shine bright like a pearl! NASA's Hubble Space Telescope has encountered a shimmering celestial spectacle as it peers into the depths of the universe, uncovering a phenomenon dubbed the "string of pearls" in a galactic collision. 12 Interacting Galaxies In the vast expanse of space, Galaxy AM 1054-325 has undergone a remarkable transformation, morphing from its traditional spiral shape into a mesmerizing S-shape under the gravitational influence of a neighboring galaxy. This cosmic dance has stretched out the galaxy's form, giving rise to what appears to be a string of luminous pearls, each representing a cluster of newborn stars. NASA explains that these galactic encounters do not spell doom for the stars within. Instead, they serve as catalysts for the birth of new stellar generations and, potentially, their accompanying planets. Delving into this cosmic phenomenon, NASA's Hubble Space Telescope has turned its gaze toward 12 interacting galaxies, revealing long, tadpole-like tails composed of gas, dust, and myriad stars. With its unparalleled precision and sensitivity to ultraviolet light, Hubble has unveiled a stunning sight - 425 clusters of newly formed stars dotting these tails like strings of festive lights, each boasting up to a million youthful, blue-hued stars. Star Clusters in Tidal Tails NASA notes that star clusters within tidal tails have been known for some time, observed in iconic examples such as the Antennae and Mice galaxies, adorned with elongated projections resembling fingers. Astronomers, leveraging a blend of fresh observations and archival data, have delved into the ages and masses of these star clusters within tidal tails, discovering their youthful nature - a mere 10 million years old. Furthermore, these clusters seem to be emerging consistently along tails stretching across thousands of light-years. Lead author Michael Rodruck of Randolph-Macon College in Ashland, Virginia, expressed surprise at the abundance of young objects within the tails, shedding light on the efficiency of cluster formation in such environments. The gravitational interplay between interacting galaxies effectively extends a galaxy's spiral arm into space, shaping the elongated tails observed by Hubble. Prior to these galactic mergers, molecular hydrogen clouds within the galaxies may have lain dormant. However, the turbulent encounters stirred these clouds, triggering a frenzy of star formation as the compressed hydrogen ignited the birth of stars, according to NASA. Read Also: NASA Hubble Discovers Saturn's Ring System Heats Planet's Atmosphere-A Never-Before-Seen Phenomenon! "String-of-Pearls" The destiny of these stellar ensembles remains uncertain. They may persist as gravitationally bound entities, evolving into globular star clusters akin to those orbiting the outskirts of our Milky Way galaxy. Alternatively, they may disperse, scattering to form a halo of stars surrounding their host galaxy or embarking on journeys as intergalactic wanderers. This "string-of-pearls" phenomenon hints at a bygone era in the universe's history when galactic collisions were more prevalent. The galaxies observed by Hubble serve as windows into the distant past, offering insights into the cosmic ballet that unfolded in the early universe. Related Article: NASA's Hubble Space Telescope Captures 'Butterfly Nebula' In Stunning Motion | Fun Facts About This Beautiful Space Butterfly 2024 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. A major children's hospital in Chicago finds itself grappling with the aftermath of a prolonged cyberattack, leaving medical staff disconnected from digital patient records and disrupting communication channels between parents and caregivers, according to a report by AP. Officials at Lurie Children's Hospital disclosed that the institution is still reeling from the cyberattack that commenced over a week ago, prompting an investigation in collaboration with the FBI and other law enforcement agencies. Lurie Shuts Down its Internal Systems The hospital promptly shuttered its internal systems encompassing phone lines, email services, and medical databases following the discovery of the breach on Jan. 31. Dr. Marcelo Malakooti, Lurie's chief medical officer, conveyed the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the hospital's engagement with external and internal experts in tandem with law enforcement agencies in a relentless effort to address the crisis. He underscored the ongoing and active nature of the investigation, characterizing it as a matter of utmost seriousness. Although not definitively confirmed by hospital authorities, the situation at Lurie Children's Hospital bears the hallmarks of a ransomware attack, a tactic favored by cybercriminal syndicates for its extortionate potential. These entities typically encrypt crucial data or records, holding them hostage until a ransom is paid for release. Read Also: Data Breach Alert: 'ResumeLooters' Hack 65 Legitimate Job Sites, Stealing Personal Info of 2 Million Users Hospitals' Vulnerability to Cyberattacks Allan Liska, an analyst at cybersecurity firm Recorded Future, refrained from pinpointing specific criminal groups involved. Still, he told AP that the narrative provided by Lurie officials hints at the involvement of a well-known entity on the radar of U.S. law enforcement agencies. "Even though we all know most hospitals with some exceptions don't have spare cash to pay a large ransom, they're much more aggressive than they used to be when going after health care providers," Liska said in a statement. The FBI in Chicago declined to furnish additional details regarding the hospital's disclosures, directing inquiries to a previously issued statement affirming an ongoing investigation. A report by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services from 2023 underscored the escalating trend of criminal targeting of healthcare providers, disrupting care services for patients nationwide. However, the threat landscape extends beyond healthcare, encompassing educational institutions, judicial bodies, utilities, and governmental entities. In response to the cyber predicament, Lurie has advised patients to avail themselves of a designated call center, offering assistance with prescription refills, appointment inquiries, and communication with healthcare providers. Dr. Malakooti acknowledged the frustration and anxiety engendered by the predicament among the community, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support received while commending the resilience exhibited by the hospital's workforce in upholding its mission. Nonetheless, some parents have voiced dissatisfaction with the center's responsiveness, expressing uncertainty regarding the timeline for resolving their queries and concerns. Related Article: 911 Calls in Chicago Will Start Getting Mental Health Clinicians Instead of Cops | Public Health Approach 2024 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. TikTok has taken a stand against an EU fee aimed at enforcing a content moderation law, mirroring a recent move by Meta, the parent company of Facebook, according to a report by AFP. Very Large Online Platforms The popular video-sharing platform finds itself among the "very large" online platforms mandated to adhere to stricter regulations outlined in the EU's new Digital Services Act (DSA). Under the DSA, these designated firms are required to contribute financially to the enforcement of the regulations by paying fees to the European Commission, the executive arm of the EU. However, TikTok has contested the methodology used to calculate these fees, asserting that it disagrees with the basis for determining the total amount. The platform expressed particular dissent over the utilization of third-party estimates regarding its monthly active user numbers. Despite its opposition, TikTok confirmed its compliance by paying the required fees last year, although it continues to challenge the process. With an average of 125 million monthly active users in the EU last year, TikTok's disagreement with the fee calculation underscores its commitment to addressing what it perceives as unfair practices. The DSA legislation mandates online platforms to assume greater responsibility in policing content and enhancing protections for online consumers against fraudulent activities. The commission clarified that the fee structure is proportionate to the size of the service, determined by factors such as the number of EU users, with an overarching ceiling set to prevent excessive financial burdens on providers. Meta, the parent company of Facebook, also voiced disagreement with the methodology employed to calculate the fees, echoing TikTok's concerns. The DSA, effective for major companies since last year, is poised to extend its reach to all firms starting February 17, 2024. Meanwhile, the EU is also grappling with legal challenges from other online retailers, such as Amazon and Zalando, who contest their classification as "very large" platforms. Read Also: TikTok vs. Universal Music: Songs by Top Artists Like Taylor Swift Will No Longer Be Available on TikTok TikTok's Rift With UMG In a separate development, the rift between TikTok and Universal Music Group (UMG) has reverberated throughout the platform, disrupting its well-known ecosystem of viral trends and user-generated content. TikTok's decision not to renew licensing agreements with UMG has resulted in the sudden removal of a significant portion of UMG's music catalog from the platform. This move carries considerable ramifications, considering TikTok's profound influence on shaping global music trends and serving as a crucial platform for music discovery. The absence of UMG's repertoire poses challenges to content creators and trends that heavily rely on popular music tracks. UMG's maneuver reflects a belief that TikTok will eventually return to the negotiation table with a more favorable agreement, underscoring the intricate dynamics between major music labels and digital platforms. Related Article: TikTok Wants Horizontal Videos Like YouTube, Incentivizes Creators for New Format Uploads 2024 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. TForce Freight remains a work in progress (Photo: Jim Allen/FreightWaves) Transport and logistics company TFI International Inc. posted fourth-quarter adjusted earnings of $1.71 per diluted share, a 4-cent-per-diluted-share beat from consensus estimates. Alain Bedard, the companys chairman, president and CEO, told analysts that he expects full-year earnings per share to exceed $7 per diluted share on an organic basis, bettering 2023s $6.18 per share but below 2022s $8.02 per diluted share. On an analyst call Friday morning, Bedard said the turnaround at Montreal-based TFIs (NYSE: TFII) struggling U.S. LTL operation, TForce Freight, remains a work in progress but is improving. Operating ratio, the ratio of revenues to expenses, ended 2023 at 91%, a figure Bedard said will be unacceptable in 2024. He expected to reduce the OR to 88% by the end of the year, but those efficiencies will be a second-half story. The unit expects to handle 24,000 to 25,000 shipments per day, well down from when TFI acquired it from UPS Inc. nearly three years ago. TForce Freight has culled as much unprofitable or marginally profitable freight as possible from its network, and 2024 will be a volume growth story, Bedard said. TForce Freight reduced its cargo claims ratio in the quarter to 0.5%, down from 1.5% a year earlier, Bedard said. Still, the units costs remain elevated, especially in billing, where too many errors lead to inefficiencies, he said. Bedard also said TFI continues to explore a spinoff of its truckload business, an announcement made at the time it disclosed its offer for Daseke at the end of December. The Daseke acquisition is expected to close in the second quarter. TFI declined to give full-year guidance either in the communique announcing the quarterly and full-year results or on the analyst call. Bedard said the company will remain cautious ahead of the close of the Daseke deal but said he will provide more clarity on the balance of the year after the first quarter ends. The executive said TFI performed well in the quarter given the weak operating environment that impacted three of its four business units. The one exception was the companys logistics division, where revenue, operating income and net income jumped year over year. Otherwise, TFIs LTL, truckload, and package and courier divisions posted year-on-year declines in revenue, operating and net income. Bedard said the macro environment remains challenging. The post TFI beats earnings estimates, US LTL a work in progress appeared first on FreightWaves. As Valentine's Day approaches, NASA's Astronomy Picture of the Day offers a cosmic bouquet to admirers of the universe, showcasing a stunning celestial rose captured in the depths of space. While roses may typically be associated with vibrant red hues, this particular rose, the Rosette Nebula, boasts a palette of colors beyond imagination. The Rosette Nebula is a stellar nursery where new stars are born amidst swirling clouds of gas and dust, according to NASA. The Rosette Nebula in Various Hues In a captivating image taken by Tommy Lease of the Denver Astronomical Society, the Rosette Nebula is depicted in all its splendor. This cosmic flower spans about 50 light-years across and emanates a mesmerizing glow, captivating astronomers and stargazers alike. Unlike traditional roses, the Rosette Nebula's allure lies not in its red petals but in the intricate interplay of gases and elements that compose its ethereal form. Hydrogen, the primary constituent of this cosmic bloom, emits a radiant green glow, while sulfur atoms contribute to its crimson hues. Oxygen, meanwhile, adds a touch of celestial blue, completing the cosmic color palette. This breathtaking view of the Rosette Nebula offers a glimpse into the dynamic processes shaping our universe. Located approximately 3,000 light-years away in Monoceros's constellation, the nebula serves as a stellar nursery, nurturing the birth of countless stars. Sprawling Emission Nebula According to the Constellation Guide, the Rosette Nebula is a sprawling emission nebula nestled within a molecular cloud in the constellation Monoceros, also known as the Unicorn. At its heart lies the Satellite Cluster, a cluster of young stars formed from the nebula's material in the last 5 million years. The luminous stars of the Satellite Cluster illuminate the surrounding nebula, causing it to radiate with vibrant colors. The nebula's distinctive red glow is a result of the intense ultraviolet radiation emitted by these young stars, which ionizes the hydrogen atoms within the nebula, causing them to emit light. Read Also: New Computer Simulation Sheds Light on Early Galaxy Formation Aligned With NASA James Webb's Observations An Abundance of Young Stars Despite its serene appearance, the Rosette Nebula is a site of intense stellar activity. Teeming with young stars, Herbig-Haro objects, and Bok globules, the nebula is a bustling stellar nursery sculpted by the powerful forces of stellar winds and radiation. The Rosette Nebula spans 130 light-years across and boasts an estimated mass of 10,000 solar masses, making it a celestial marvel of staggering proportions. As Valentine's Day approaches, NASA's Astronomy Picture of the Day presents this celestial rose as a testament to the enduring beauty and romance found in the boundless expanse of the cosmos. Related Article: NASA's Hubble Space Telescope Captures 'Butterfly Nebula' In Stunning Motion | Fun Facts About This Beautiful Space Butterfly 2024 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. As first reported by Bloomberg, Midjourney's CEO, David Holz, has proposed banning images of prominent political figures such as President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump in response to growing concerns about the spread of misinformation ahead of the upcoming US presidential election. This move is intended to combat the increasing use of AI-generated content for political manipulation. Growing Threat AI Deepfakes With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) tools capable of swiftly creating manipulated images and videos, the dissemination of fake political content has become alarmingly easy. In case you missed it, individuals have already utilized Midjourney's AI to produce deepfakes depicting scenarios such as Trump's fake arrest, which quickly gained traction on social media. During a recent chat session on Discord, Holz candidly addressed the issue, acknowledging the allure of creating images featuring Trump but emphasizing the potential risks during this critical election period. "I know it's fun to make Trump pictures - I make Trump pictures," Holz remarked. "Trump is aesthetically really interesting. However, probably better to just not - better to pull out a little bit during this election. We'll see." Holz's remarks underscore the company's stance in mitigating the misuse of its AI technology for political disinformation. While Midjourney already has guidelines in place to prevent the creation of misleading content involving public figures, concerns persist regarding the effectiveness of such measures. Read Also: Elon Musk: Tesla to Use NVIDIA, AMD AI Chips to Build New Dojo Supercomputer Industry-wide Measures to Counter Fake Content Furthermore, Holz hinted that any potential ban on political images might be implemented discreetly, without a formal announcement. This approach reflects the company's commitment to addressing the issue without drawing unnecessary attention or inviting circumvention attempts. Engadget tells us that the proposal to ban specific political images comes amid broader efforts within the tech industry to combat misinformation ahead of elections. Meta, formerly Facebook, has announced plans to label AI-generated content, while OpenAI intends to introduce watermarks on images produced using its platforms like DALL-E 3. However, experts caution that such measures may offer only partial solutions to the overarching problem of political disinformation. Hany Farid, a digital forensics expert at the University of California, Berkeley, emphasized the need for comprehensive strategies to tackle the issue effectively. "Let's not pretend that banning images of Biden and Trump in Midjourney is going to solve the much, much larger problem we have of political disinformation," Farid cautioned. He highlighted the persistent challenges posed by advancements in AI technology and the ever-evolving tactics employed by bad actors. Despite the complexities involved, tech companies remain committed to addressing the issue of misinformation. Industry leaders are collaborating with government agencies to establish safety standards for AI technologies, signaling a collective effort to safeguard the integrity of democratic processes. Stay posted here at Tech Times. Related Article: Biden Administration and Tech Giants Unveil AISIC: A Collaborative Initiative to Tackle AI Risks 2024 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, recently set off on a bold quest to reshape the semiconductor industry and accelerate the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. With real lofty goals, Altman is looking for trillions of dollars in investments to fuel this ambitious project. The Wall Street Journal reports that the initiative, which could cost anywhere between $5 trillion and $7 trillion, aims to address critical constraints impeding OpenAI's growth, particularly the scarcity of essential AI chips. Expanding the Global Chip Industry WSJ tells us that Altman is in discussions with potential investors, including the government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), to secure funding for this monumental project. The goal is to significantly expand the world's chip-building capacity while bolstering AI capabilities. The investment sought by Altman surpasses the current size of the global semiconductor industry and exceeds conventional corporate fundraising standards by a wide margin. One of the primary motivations behind this initiative is to overcome the shortage of graphics processing units (GPUs), which are crucial for powering AI systems like ChatGPT, OpenAI's flagship offering. Altman has expressed frustration over the limited availability of these chips, which are essential for training large language models and advancing towards artificial general intelligence. To realize his vision, Altman is orchestrating a complex network of partnerships involving investors, chip manufacturers, and power providers. This includes proposals for building chip foundries funded by a consortium of stakeholders, with OpenAI committing to substantial chip purchases to support its AI research and development efforts. This week, the CEO wrote on X: "Building massive-scale ai infrastructure, and a resilient supply chain, is crucial to economic competitiveness. OpenAI will try to help!" Read Also: Biden Administration and Tech Giants Unveil AISIC: A Collaborative Initiative to Tackle AI Risks OpenAI's Rapid Growth However, Altman's ambitious plans are not without challenges. Selecting suitable locations for new chip plants, navigating geopolitical tensions, and addressing workforce shortages are among the many hurdles to overcome. Additionally, there are concerns about foreign control of critical supply chains, prompting scrutiny from US lawmakers and regulatory bodies. Altman's initiative comes at a time of rapid growth for OpenAI. Financial Times recently reported that the company's annual revenue has soared past $2 billion, driven primarily by the success of ChatGPT and other generative AI tools. Altman aims to double this figure by 2025, fueled by strong demand from businesses looking to leverage AI technologies in their operations. OpenAI's strategic partnership with Microsoft has been instrumental in its growth journey. The two companies collaborate on various AI projects, including AI Copilot, an AI assistant for enterprise users of Microsoft 365. This partnership has contributed to OpenAI's profitability and market expansion. Altman's broader vision extends beyond AI development to bolstering semiconductor supply chains, a move aimed at enhancing economic competitiveness. Stay posted here at Tech Times. Related Article: OpenAI Forms New Child Safety Team Amid Growing Concerns Over AI Misuse 2024 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. According to court documents first spotted by 9to5Mac, former Apple employee Xiaolang Zhang was sentenced to 120 days in prison and fined $146,984 for stealing confidential information about the company's self-driving car project. The sentence includes a three-year supervised release period (via Engadget). Stealing Apple's Self-Driving Car Plans Zhang, who worked as a hardware engineer for Apple's autonomous vehicle initiative, known internally as Project Titan, was arrested in 2018 at San Jose International Airport just before boarding a flight to China. His arrest came after suspicions arose regarding his sudden departure from the company following paternity leave and a trip to China. While at Apple, Zhang was involved in designing and testing circuit boards capable of analyzing sensor data, a critical component of self-driving car technology. However, it was revealed that Zhang had unlawfully transferred sensitive documents and hardware from Apple's development labs to his personal devices. The stolen information included a 25-page document containing engineering schematics of a circuit board for Apple's self-driving vehicle and technical manuals describing the company's prototype. Zhang had also taken circuit boards and a Linux server from Apple's labs. In May 2023, the DOJ stated that these sensitive files could only be accessed by 2,700 of the 135,000 Apple employees at the time. Read Also: Apple Launches Cutting-Edge MGIE: AI Image Editing Tool Revolutionizes Photo Editing Trade Secrets Theft 9to5Mac tells us that Apple's investigation into Zhang's activities was triggered by his departure and subsequent employment at XPeng Motors, a Chinese startup working on autonomous driving technology. The investigation, conducted by Apple's New Product Security Team, uncovered evidence of Zhang's unauthorized actions, leading to his arrest and subsequent legal proceedings. Initially, Zhang pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against him in 2018. However, in August 2022, he changed his plea to guilty, admitting to the theft of trade secrets from Apple. This admission ultimately led to his sentencing this week. Engadget tells us that Zhang is expected to surrender by June 19, after which he will be sent to a minimum-security facility as close as possible to his San Jose, California home. The theft of intellectual property is a serious offense, particularly in the highly competitive tech industry. Companies invest significant resources in research and development to maintain a competitive edge, making the protection of trade secrets paramount. Apple's Secret Self-Driving Car Plans Apple's self-driving car project, which has been in development for over a decade under the Project Titan initiative, has faced numerous challenges and setbacks. Recent reports suggest that the company has shifted its focus towards developing electric vehicles, with a projected launch date no earlier than 2028. Stay posted here at Tech Times. Related Article: Pilot Sparks Outrage by Wearing Apple Vision Pro Headset While Flying 2024 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Microsofts PC Manager app, which is meant to enhance user experience on Windows 10 and 11 systems, is now available for download from the Microsoft Store. It is available on Windows 10 and 11 (x64 and ARM). For those unaware, the PC Manager app, developed by Microsoft China, was released as a free tool back in 2022 as a preview for only select regions. The app, which is similar to CCleaner, was officially launched in January 2024 and is now widely available for more regions, including the U.S., in English and Chinese language options. Microsoft PC Manager is an officially launched desktop security tool aimed at global users, the company writes on its Store. It integrates Windows antivirus engine, comprehensively building a computer protection system. Microsoft PC Manager adheres to the four product concepts of simplicity, fluency, close to native, efficient and secure, and pure without disturbance. Based on user pain points, it provides a one-stop computer problem-solving solution, addressing issues such as malicious system tampering, insufficient computer space, system lag, and excessive pop-up ads, creating a native Windows system experience for users. The app offers one-click solution for system optimization, including a RAM usage manager, cleaning up of junk files, OS troubleshooting, anti-virus protection via Microsoft Defender, pop-up blocker for Windows apps, and more. Besides its primary functions, the PC Manager app also introduces a floating toolbar that allows you to instantly access to boost your PC or launch other tools. These include: PC Boost : PC Manager can boost your PCs performance by cleaning up your system and freeing up space. : PC Manager can boost your PCs performance by cleaning up your system and freeing up space. Storage Management : It can give your PC a spring cleaning and manage large files. : It can give your PC a spring cleaning and manage large files. Antivirus Scan : By utilizing the Microsoft Defender virus engine, PC Manager identifies unknown risks, ensuring computer security. : By utilizing the Microsoft Defender virus engine, PC Manager identifies unknown risks, ensuring computer security. Health Check : With one click, it can find and fix issues quickly, as well as scan and clear threats. : With one click, it can find and fix issues quickly, as well as scan and clear threats. Toolbox: It is smarter and more efficient, as it understands your needs better. Please note that the virus scanning function in Microsoft PC Manager depends on Windows Defender, which means the virus scanning function cannot be used if Windows Defender is not installed in the system. For those interested in downloading the Microsoft PC Manager app can go to the Microsoft Store here. Commissioners Anna Tovar (left) and Kevin Thompson (right), of the Arizona Corporation Commission, attend a special open meeting following Thompson and Nick Myers' swearing-in ceremony at the commission's building in Phoenix on Jan. 3, 2023. Anna Tovar, one of five members of the Arizona Corporation Commission and the only Democrat, has announced she will not seek reelection after her current first term expires in January 2025. The former teacher, Tolleson mayor and member of both the House and Senate in Arizona indicated that its time for new blood on the commission, which regulates public utilities and oversees some investments sold in the state in addition to various small-business and other issues. The current corporation commission needs a shake-up to gain renewed focus on actually serving the people of our state, and thats why I will not be seeking a second term on the commission, Tovar wrote in a post on X, formerly Twitter. I look forward to doing all I can to support candidates who will bring new voices and perspectives to this vital work. Tovar, who has championed issues including education, local businesses, sustainable economic development and health care, thanked voters for giving her the opportunity to serve her first term. The hardworking, smart people Ive met (in serving on the commission) have given me an unshakeable belief in the future of our state, she added in her post. Three seats on the commission will be contested during the general election to be held Nov. 5. Tovars post will be open, along with those of Lea Marquez Peterson and Chairman Jim OConnor. Peterson has said she will seek reelection. An inquiry to O'Connor's office wasn't immediately answered. The two other seats, occupied by Kevin Thompson and Nick Myers, are contested in midterm-election years, such as 2022 and again in 2026. Seeking answers: Hopi tribal officials continue to pursue compensation for loss of coal mine revenue Reach the writer at russ.wiles@arizonarepublic.com. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Tovar, AZ Corporation Commission's only Democrat, won't seek new term 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 The Police open an investigation in Andorra after the Investigative Team's report on OnlyFans: "If they are minors, the better" The Spanish Society of Allergology predicts an intense Spring for those allergic to grass pollen in the center and southwest of the peninsula The "egg-beating" trend brings new opportunities to the traditional poker industry in small towns in Zhejiang Guangxi's 15 cultural tourism projects plan to attract investment in Guangdong with a total investment of more than 80.7 billion yuan 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 Defeat in the FA Cup: Klopp breaks off interview I have no nerves for you Defeat in the FA Cup: Klopp breaks off interview I have no nerves for you 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 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. Concern about the fate of Princess of Wales Kate Middleton... and talk of an important royal announcement Russia demands that Germany officially recognize the siege of Leningrad as an act of genocide The PS5 finally sees its price drop thanks to this new offer We completed the task and returned home successfully: the crews of Su-34 fighter-bombers hit the command post of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Serukanov: the non-systemic opposition admitted the futility of attempts to disrupt the elections in Russia 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. War in Sudan: community kitchens to help each other during Ramadan 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. TransDigm Group (NYSE:TDG) First Quarter 2024 Results Key Financial Results Revenue: US$1.79b (up 28% from 1Q 2023). Net income: US$382.0m (up 101% from 1Q 2023). Profit margin: 21% (up from 14% in 1Q 2023). The increase in margin was driven by higher revenue. EPS: US$6.62 (up from US$3.33 in 1Q 2023). All figures shown in the chart above are for the trailing 12 month (TTM) period TransDigm Group Revenues and Earnings Beat Expectations Revenue exceeded analyst estimates by 6.5%. Earnings per share (EPS) also surpassed analyst estimates by 1.2%. Looking ahead, revenue is forecast to grow 7.7% p.a. on average during the next 3 years, compared to a 6.5% growth forecast for the Aerospace & Defense industry in the US. Performance of the American Aerospace & Defense industry. The company's shares are up 1.3% from a week ago. Risk Analysis It's still necessary to consider the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 3 warning signs with TransDigm Group, and understanding these should be part of your investment process. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Getting added to the S&P 500 Index (SPX) is a big deal for any equity. Fund managers who track the S&P 500 will have to buy the stock to stay on target. All of those buy orders can raise the stock price higher and bring more attention to the equity. Buying a stock before it joins the S&P 500 can set an investor up for a nice payday. Some companies that fit this category have great potential to outperform the market, and some already have a history of exceeding market returns. The S&P 500 Index isnt open to every company. The index has several standards for inclusion, but these are the core requirements: A company must have a market cap above $12.7 billion. A company must have positive earnings in the most recent quarter and year. Investors can narrow their search with these parameters to find the next stocks that may join the S&P 500. I have identified Super Micro Computer (NASDAQ:SMCI) and e.l.f. Beauty (NYSE:ELF) as two promising stocks that can be added to the S&P 500 this year. Im bullish on both of them. The Bull Case for Super Micro Computer Super Micros inclusion in the S&P 500 Index feels inevitable. The corporation has capitalized on artificial intelligence demand by offering servers that can handle the intense workloads of AI chips and tools. The stock has trounced the market with a 145% year-to-date gain, a 675% gain over the past year, and a 4,324% gain over the past five years. Super Micro reported $640 million in net income in Fiscal 2023 and continues to deliver profitable quarters. Supermicro also fulfills the market cap requirement with a healthy margin of safety. The stock currently trades at a $39 billion market cap. Super Micros latest earnings report and guidance suggest theres more room for the stock to run. For instance, revenue growth came in at 103% year-over-year in the second quarter of Fiscal 2024, and the midpoint of SMCIs raised guidance ($3.7-4.1 billion in sales expected in Fiscal Q3) suggests revenue will more than triple year-over-year in Q3. Story continues The firms continued growth will beget more growth once it gets added to the S&P 500 Index since its a weighted index. This type of index prioritizes equities based on their market caps. In other words, as SMCIs market cap grows, fund managers will have to purchase more shares to stay in line with the S&P 500. These purchases will feed into the stocks market cap and can create a positive loop. Thats why all of the largest positions in the S&P 500 are trillion-dollar companies. Is SMCI Stock a Buy, According to Analysts? Based on four Buys, one Hold, and one Sell assigned in the past three months, SMCI stock comes in as a Moderate Buy. Currently, analysts suggest that SMCI stock has 19.4% downside potential, but investors must take this conclusion with a grain of salt. One of the price targets is from December 2023, which lowers the stocks average price target considerably. The Bull Case for e.l.f. Beauty e.l.f. Beauty is the second stock that is likely to join the S&P 500 soon. The companys entry may be delayed until next year since its market cap is roughly $9.5 billion. Thats just short of the $12.7 billion market cap requirement, but strengthening financials suggests this barrier wont be a problem for the company. e.l.f. Beauty only uses ethical ingredients in its beauty products and continues to gain market share in the industry. This approach has worked well for the business based on its 20 consecutive quarters of net sales growth. e.l.f. Beauty closed out the third quarter of Fiscal 2024 with 85% year-over-year revenue growth and 40.8% year-over-year net income growth. Revenue growth is accelerating when compared to the companys 80% revenue growth rate for the nine months ended December 31, 2023. e.l.f. Beauty raised its Fiscal 2024 outlook in a big way. The companys revenue and net income midpoints received increases of 9.3% and 13.8%, respectively. While e.l.f. Beauty isnt eligible for S&P 500 inclusion quite yet, it has soundly outperformed the market. The stock is up by 14% year-to-date, 131% over the past year, and 1,664% over the past five years. Is ELF Stock a Buy, According to Analysts? On TipRanks, ELF stock comes in as a Moderate Buy based on eight Buys, five Holds, and no Sell ratings assigned in the past three months. The average ELF stock price target of $196.58 implies 14.6% upside potential. The Bottom Line on Supermicro and e.l.f. Beauty Stock Super Micro Computer and e.l.f. Beauty are both stocks to watch that can get added to the S&P 500. SMCI is already eligible and seems like an easy choice due to its tailwinds and growth opportunities. e.l.f. Beauty is on the cusp of eligibility but is growing fast. It can take longer for the beauty company to earn its spot on the famed index. Super Micro and e.l.f. Beauty have both outperformed the stock market over the past year and over the past five years. These equities can generate positive returns while investors wait for them to potentially get added to the S&P 500. Disclosure The state agency overseeing coastal restoration and hurricane protection could be merged with the Department of Energy and Natural Resources under a plan being pushed by Gov. Jeff Landry, who is seeking to make it easier for oil and gas companies to operate in his initial weeks in office. Unilever PLC (NYSE:UL) Q4 2023 Earnings Call Transcript February 8, 2024 Unilever PLC isnt one of the 30 most popular stocks among hedge funds at the end of the third quarter (see the details here). Hein Schumacher: Good morning, and welcome to Unilever's Full Year Results. I'm delighted to be here today with our new Chief Financial Officer, Fernando Fernandez, who, as you know, took over the role on the 1st of January. Fernando may be new to the role but not, of course, to Unilever, having previously served as President of our Beauty & Wellbeing business group, and before that, as head of Unilever's business in Latin America. We expect prepared remarks to be around 45 minutes, followed by Q&A of around 30 minutes. And all of today's webcast is available live, transcribed on the screen. This is how we will run today. In a moment, Fernando will take you through the details of the results and our outlook. I will then give an update of our progress against our Growth Action Plan before we take your questions. First, though, let me try to frame today's announcement with a few overall reflections of my own. The results and our performance for last year give some cause for assurance, the strength and the resilience of the business are clear, but not enough cause for comfort. There are some real gaps that we need to close. Most of all, however, they reaffirm the importance and the relevance of the measures we are taking now at pace to accelerate Unilever's growth and to step up the quality and the consistency of our performance. Those measures were set out in the Growth Action Plan I shared with you at the end of October. But given its importance, I want to devote most of my remarks today to the plan and how we are implementing it. First, though, let me highlight five important shifts that we have already made, some of which are reflected in the results we are sharing with you today. A supermarket shelf overflowing with a variety of fast-moving consumer goods. First, we returned to positive volume growth of 1.8% in Q4 and gross margin expansion of 330 basis points in the second half. Second, we tightened grip on operations and working capital leading to strong free cash flow. Third, we stepped up brand and marketing investment focused on the 30 Power Brands. Fourth, we made significant changes in our Ice Cream business to address underperformance. And fifth, we accelerated portfolio change with the acquisition of the premium hair care brand, K18, and the disposal in the value segment of Elida Beauty. I will come back to the Growth Action Plan in more detail later, but I wanted to flag these five shifts upfront partly because they are significant in their own right, but also because they're indicative of the changes that we are making, changes that we need to make, and we know that. Story continues Our competitiveness bottomed out, but remains unacceptably low. So we are not waiting to take the action that is needed. And on that note, let me hand over to Fernando to take you through the results. Fernando, over to you. Fernando Fernandez: Thank you, Hein. I am very happy to be here with you today for the first time as Unilever Chief Financial Officer. Let me introduce myself. I joined Unilever in Argentina as an economist in the finance function. For the last 16 years, I have led some of our key operations like the Philippines, Brazil and Latin America. More recently, I was the President of the Beauty & Wellbeing business group. My long experience high-growth businesses, particularly in volatile markets, has always been anchored in one fundamental belief: drive brand and product differentiation to grow volume, positive mix and to expand gross margin consistently. That recipe never fails in delivering long-term competitive success, and it is the one we will ruthlessly follow. See also 25 Best States for Job Seekers Right Now and 25 Least Family-Oriented Countries in the World. To continue reading the Q&A session, please click here. Louisiana State Climatologist Barry Keim, familiar statewide for his explanations of hurricanes, tornadoes and other weather events during his 19 years in the position, has been removed from the post by LSU officials, possibly due to a dispute over whether last summer's intense drought conditions were being accurately portrayed. Rick Gallot was born, reared and schooled in 71245 the City of Grambling and Grambling State University ZIP code. He served on the Grambling City Council, as a Louisiana state representative and senator, and worked as an attorney. In 2016, he was appointed president of his alma mater.He recently left the job he thought he might have for at least 20 years to become the University of Louisiana System president. In his new job, he leads a nine-institution system with about 90,000 students, including Grambling State.That leaves GSU without a leader who has known, breathed and loved GSU all his life. I met up with friends at a Vietnamese restaurant. One of them used his chopsticks to serve himself from the shared plates. Am I wrong to be disgusted? R.M., Mosman, NSW Credit: Simon Letch A: Forks have no rules. Do what you like with them. Use them for eating, whisking eggs, combing eyebrows, scratching buttocks. And when your partner starts their painfully tedious dinner-party rant about how nobody knows theres a plural in John Denvers Take Me Home, Country Roads, you can use a fork to stab them in the thigh under the table. Spoons have no rules. Do what you like with them. Use them for scooping soup, stirring beverages, catapulting peas, imitating a koala by hanging them from your nose. Or grab a bunch of them at a backyard barbecue and play spoon-percussion to Lil Nas Xs Old Town Road (until your partner stabs you in the thigh with a fork). But chopsticks have rules. Lots of rules. Rules that strike fear into the heart of all diners: eating with chopsticks is like eating with loaded sniper rifles. Hold your chopsticks incorrectly and youve insulted the host. Point with your chopsticks and youve disrespected your friends. Poke your chopsticks vertically in a bowl of rice and everyone at the table will be stricken with lethargy and bankruptcy (I havent done the research on this, but it feels sort of right). Bright Moon Buddhist Temple took 34 years to build and one night to destroy. After an inferno a year ago this week, the charred remains of the temple in Melbournes south-east are now cleared. But the Bright Moon Buddhist Society is ready to play a central role in welcoming the Year of the Dragon when Lunar New Year celebrations kick off on Friday, the eve of the new year. Bright Moon Buddhist Society president Vinh Loi Ly in the makeshift temple basement preparing for Chinese New Year. Credit: Eddie Jim Its been a difficult time, but personally, I just face the reality and adjust myself to do the proper things and focus on the moment and do what I should do, said society president Vinh Loi Ly, 78. I feel I want to pass a positive emotion to the community and members. In 2012, Tony Mokbel stood before the Supreme Court in a dark suit and red tie and was sentenced to 30 years in prison on major drug trafficking charges. Locking up the mastermind of a multimillion-dollar drug syndicate was a huge win for Victoria Police and bookended the brutal gangland war that had killed dozens of people from the late 1990s to the mid-2000s. Tony Mokbel leaves the County Court in a prison van on February 6. Credit: Jason South The Purana taskforce solved 11 murders, thwarted six, and imprisoned several key underworld figures, including Mokbel and now-murdered Carl Williams. The epic saga was dramatised in the TV series Underbelly. In 2014 came a twist that not even the television producers had thought up: it was revealed that a key underworld barrister had been recruited by police to inform on her own clients, compromising their convictions. A man serving a life sentence for the murder of his lovers partner has been caught hatching a plan to extort money from a fellow prisoners family. Robert Edhouse, 28, will not be out of prison until 2037 after he was found guilty of murdering FIFO worker Alan Taylor in 2016. Corey Dymock (left) and Robert Edhouse. At the time, Edhouse was in a relationship with FIFO worker Taylors partner of nine years, Melony Attwood, and the court heard how she, Edhouse and housemate Corey Dymock murdered Taylor to get him out of the way so they could continue their affair. Attwood was leader of an Aryan Nations division and Edhouse, 22 at the time, was the president of the chapter. Unnerved by failed merger efforts between Fairview Health Services and an out-of-state health care corporation, University of Minnesota officials have made clear their intent to buy back the University of Minnesota Medical Center, which educates some 70% of the doctors and nurses in Minnesota and was sold to Fairview in 1997. The Us Board of Regents unanimously approved a non-binding letter of intent on Friday to reacquire the four Minneapolis campus facilities composing the University of Minnesota Medical Center from Fairview. They include the East Bank and West Bank hospitals, Masonic Childrens Hospital and Fairviews interest in the University of Minnesota Clinics and Surgery Center. The hospitals have 750 beds among them. A purchase price has yet to be determined. The goal is to have the U running its own medical services and facilities by the end of 2027, while working on eventually expanding the medical center with a new state-of-the-art academic health facility owned and operated by the university on the East Bank campus. I was very concerned a year ago, said Board of Regents Chair Janie Mayeron, addressing Interim University President Jeff Ettinger, representatives of the University of Minnesota Physicians and her fellow regents. I am absolutely thrilled you all have gotten us to where we are. Definitive agreement Ettinger said key details need to be hashed out in a negotiated definitive agreement by Sept. 30 and presented to the Minnesota Attorney Generals Office for review by the end of December, a tight timeline already approved by Minneapolis-based Fairview. He said the letter of intent leaves much for future consideration as the university and University of Minnesota Physicians recraft their relationship with Fairview, which launched a combined M Health Fairview brand with the university and physicians practice in January 2019. Story continues In a joint written statement issued after the vote, Fairview and university officials said the future of the M Health Fairview brand remains a key consideration in ongoing conversations. The joint operating model established under the brand expires at the end of 2026. Fridays decision by the regents is a critical first step towards a new and reimagined relationship that will better meet the current and future needs of our patients and our community, said Fairview Health Services President and CEO James Hereford, in the statement. Our patients and our employees, who contribute significantly to our success, will remain the heart of our organizations. Todays announcement is designed to provide clarity on our collaborative path forward. Failed merger talks with Sanford Health Ettinger did not explicitly mention Fairviews failed efforts to persuade U officials to back a proposed merger with Sanford Health, the largest rural health care system in the nation. The Sioux Falls, S.D.-based hospital network had proposed combining their 58 hospitals, but announced last July that the deal had withered under pushback from key stakeholders and regulators, including the Minnesota Attorney Generals Office. University officials had said at the time that the only way they could foresee the deal moving forward was if the state helped fund their buyback of the medical center, which they feared would lose some of its academic focus on solving complex clinical problems, including for the indigent. I always ask myself a question: What does it feel like to be sick, really sick, in the United States today, especially if you are poor? said Dr. Jakub Tolar, dean of the universitys medical school and vice president for clinical affairs. Poor people deserve top-notch medical care. He added: This is a positive reframing of an evolutionary trajectory we have started decades ago, maybe a century ago. A new hospital planned Tolar said focusing on innovation, cutting-edge clinical care, controlling costs for patients, and prevention through the social aspects of health care would require greater control over operations, investments and the programmatic developments in the care settings. The medical school has climbed in national rankings, he said, to No. 21 among all medical schools backed by the National Institutes of Health and No. 8 among all public medical schools, according to the Blue Ridge Institute for Medical Research. Its been identified by U.S. News & World Report as the No. 2 best medical school for primary care. Still, said Tolar, clinical care without innovation is not fulfilling the promise physicians have as mentors to the generations to come. Reacquiring the medical center, Ettinger said, will allow the university to focus on designing a new hospital, built from the ground up on the East Bank campus with the Us priorities in mind. The university officially laid out those goals in its Five-Point Plan for the Future of Academic Health in January 2023 and presented them to the Governors Task Force on Academic Health in December. The universitys vision for academic health specifically foresees a new hospital as part of the University of Minnesota medical center, said Ettinger, addressing the Board of Regents. Myron Frans, the Us outgoing senior vice president for finance and operations, called for continuity during the transition and said there will be no layoffs in 2024. Nothing will change for our patients, our care teams or our employees at any of the impacted facilities this year, Frans said. Regent Robyn Gulley echoed a commitment to labor rights. I want to be sure that theres continuity for the represented folks in these clinics, that their pensions arent affected, that their seniority isnt affected, Gulley said, acknowledging that the university will absorb more financial liability as a result of the purchase. I think that ultimately we can do a better job. This will be a positive thing for serving our region and our state. Regent Penny Wheeler, a physician who recently retired as chief executive officer of Allina Health, said running the academic medical center without Fairview will require careful economic planning in a short period. We have a lot to sort through, she said. The definitive agreement, once its reached, thats a big piece of work. But the work that follows that is huge. Related Articles Former deputy prime minister Barnaby Joyce says he was talking to his wife Vikki Campion before he fell off a planter box, and was swearing because he hurt himself, after he was caught on video lying on his back on a footpath late at night mumbling obscenities on his phone. Video obtained and first published by Daily Mail Australia, showed Joyce on his back in Lonsdale Street, a popular Canberra restaurant street, after 11.30pm on Wednesday, prompting several Nationals colleagues to ask why he wasnt helped to his feet. Joyce said he was swearing because he had injured himself falling off one of the streets planter boxes. If Id known I was being filmed, probably would have got up quicker, he said. All the Group of Eight universities are in the tier one category in this new system, while the tier three group at the lowest level of the system is mainly made up of private vocational education colleges. Australia has more than 650,000 overseas students and an increasing number of them are prolonging their stay by applying to do a second course, with 150,000 of the total being on their second student visa. The results from the department show that overseas students are being turned away in record numbers because the visa grant rate has been driven down to 80 per cent, the lowest since records began in 2005. In a rare fall, the student visa grants in December were lower than in November a sign of fewer arrivals for the coming academic year and are 20 per cent below the same period last year. The outcome shows the department is bringing international student visa grants down from 370,000 last financial year to 290,000 this year and believes there is a reasonable chance the outcome will be slightly lower. Loading The new migration figures provide the first outcomes from the dramatic shift last year when the Coalition accused Labor of planning a big Australia by stealth and the government vowed to lower the intake and crack down on dubious visa claims. Opposition immigration spokesman Dan Tehan criticised ONeil for presiding over the biggest influx of overseas students as well as a record migrant intake last year. Labor says they dont want a Big Australia but under the Albanese Government 900,000 people will arrive over two years and 1.625 million will arrive over five. ONeil said the country could not sustain the big increase in migration after the borders were opened at the end of the pandemic. Migration is too high and our government has taken action to bring it back to normal levels, she said. The early signs are that these changes are working. We are seeing sharp decreases in numbers. This is led by deep cuts in the areas of higher education, where we have unfortunately seen widespread integrity issues. Another key factor in driving the migration intake down is a special program called the Pandemic Event Visa, which was introduced by the previous government with no fees and no skills test and attracted more than 100,000 people. Labor closed the pandemic program to new applicants last year and expects 60 per cent to leave the country and the remainder to shift to other visas because they have skills that are in demand and jobs that pay above the $70,000 salary threshold for approval. The skills program is not expected to see a big fall in visa approvals, given warnings from employers about a shortage of workers, and the government is not expressing concern about the number of backpackers and tourists who gain visas to do temporary jobs before they return home. Loading Net migration surged to 510,000 last financial year as students returned after the end of pandemic restrictions and foreign workers took up job offers, placing immense political pressure on the government to impose stricter rules. ONeil has vowed to bring migration down to normal levels over time. The intake was 239,600 in the year to June 2019, months before it was halted during the pandemic. In one example of the shift in education, the University of Wollongong has written to some of its overseas students in recent days to tell them to withdraw their applications because they will not gain their visas. Unfortunately, the Australian government has recently implemented substantial changes to its migration strategy, the university said in its email to students, first reported by education news site Koala News. Loading The University of Wollongong declined to comment on the number of students it was turning away but said the Department of Home Affairs had applied strict rules. The University of Wollongong welcomes this approach and works in strict alignment with [Department of Home Affairs] guidance and continuously monitors compliance risks, it said. The chief executive of the International Education Association of Australia, Phil Honeywood, said the impact was already being seen on visa applications from India, Nepal and Pakistan. The numbers are definitely down but it is going to take some months to see how that plays out, he said. Caroline Kennedys soft power diplomacy mission is stepping up a gear. The United States ambassador to Australia is preparing to drive in a beaten-up Ford Falcon around the Australian outback to raise money for the Cancer Council. Kennedy, the daughter of the late US President John F. Kennedy, first flagged her interest in participating in the Shitbox Rally in an interview with The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age last year. US ambassador Caroline Kennedy will participate in the Shitbox Rally to raise money for cancer research. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen Kennedy heard about the event in October 2022, not long after arriving in Australia, when she visited a Bunnings hardware store in Canberra to experience an authentic Australian sausage sizzle and got chatting to the volunteers. A senior planning department official spent $3.8 million on a north shore property just months before the public release of major density reforms, then floated the prospect of lobbying the NSW government to more than double proposed building heights at the site. Liberal frontbencher Alister Henskens used parliamentary privilege on Thursday to allege there was a strong circumstantial case a senior bureaucrat was motivated to buy a property by confidential information about a government housing reform likely to dramatically increase its value. Alister Henskens made allegations of corruption in parliament on Thursday night. Credit: Louise Kennerley The Sydney Morning Herald can now reveal a senior official in the NSW Department of Planning purchased a property in Gordon in mid-August. This masthead has chosen not to name the senior bureaucrat. The five-bedroom home, set on a 1000 square-metre block, is located about 290 metres from Gordon train station, one of the 31 transport hubs identified for a density uplift as part of the state governments signature housing push. Vietnam ease Ive just returned from an unforgettable holiday in Vietnam and Cambodia and, in response to Lee Tullochs column on airline safety videos (Traveller, January 16), feel I must put in a vote for the fabulous Vietnam Airlines in-flight safety film. Catchy Vietnamese music and a group of dancers perform a mesmerising routine to demonstrate the various safety aspects in a variety of beautiful locations. Made me look forward to flying each leg of our journey, and Ive now found it on YouTube to remind me of this quirky aspect of a great trip. They also show a fantastic Vietnamese cooking demonstration in miniature that even impressed my 19-year-old son. The airline was excellent in all respects as well and I highly recommend them. David Cleave, Northbridge, NSW Turned away at the inn Two days before Christmas last year my great nephew arrived in Melbourne after a 20-hour flight from Milan, Italy. His mother had booked a room online for the night at the Ibis Airport hotel. He was to be driven to Tocumwal, NSW, the next day, where he was to spend two weeks staying with his aunts and cousins. On arrival at the hotel he was refused admission, he was 17, one month short of his 18th birthday on January 20. His limited English was cause for confusion and he left in search of somewhere else to stay, but was refused on the same grounds. I called Ibis to speak to the manager but was told to email her, which I did. Her reply? It is the law that no unaccompanied people aged under 18 are allowed. Geraldine Hare, Port Melbourne, Vic Good and bad Changi Airport - passport control effortless. Credit: iStock We were lucky enough to spend time in the UK, France and Singapore over the school holidays. The good: the French and English rail system. Fast, efficient, reliable (on one day we had six trains to catch and every one was on time and easy to find) and the Morzine and Avoriaz ski resorts. Simply incredible was Singapores passport control. So quick. The bad? Sydney Airport passport control and trying to use frequent flyer points to upgrade on Qantas flights. Jo Lees, Rockdale, NSW Border farce On its website the Port Authority of NSW says in its plan for the future that a key outcome is a commitment to higher levels of customer service. We have just returned from back- to-back cruises on Celebrity Edge. On January 3, after completing the first sector to New Zealand, the Edge returned to Sydney. As we were in transit on back-to-back cruises we were required to leave the ship by Australias Border Force who are responsible for our national security. This process took from 9am to 1.30pm while we waited for immigration and the checking-in of new passengers for the upcoming cruise to the Pacific Islands. With no regard for our comfort, we were forced to sit in the terminal with the cold air-conditioning blasting full force at us. Terminal staff who were extremely helpful told us that they had complained about the freezing conditions in the terminal for years. Janet and Frank Gardner, Pyrmont, NSW No dough from Doha I sympathise with your readers frustration with Qatar Airways (Traveller Letters, January 20). We had to cancel a month-long trip to the UK when Australias border closed in 2020 and managed to recoup all our costs (a Cosmos Ireland tour, car-hire, accommodation in Scotland and London and rail fares), except for flights. Qatar readily kept $3000 of our business class fares, even though our governments implementation of the biosecurity act at that time meant that it was impossible to fly. We no longer fly with them. Kerrie Wehbe, Blacktown, NSW Tip of the week: City of fright The scooters that ate Paris. Credit: iStock My husband and I recently enjoyed a holiday in Paris, however I would like to warn fellow travellers if you are going to Paris to be careful when crossing the road. You assume that when you get a green walk sign at pedestrian crossings that all is well, but you then step into a bike lane and they are coming at you from both directions along with e-scooters and they dont always stop. When you navigate that lane you enter another one on the other side of the road before stepping on to the footpath on that side. They are very dangerous, especially in poor light or if you have small children with you. Narelle Geran, Avalon Beach, NSW EDITORS NOTE Weve love to hear other readers tips about dangers in other cities around the world. Write to us below and well publish the most useful and interesting advice. Appy days Have recently returned from an overseas holiday, including some days in Prague, and wanted to mention that on all of Pragues excellent public transport system, travellers aged over 65 years travel free. This applies not just to locals, but visitors as well, as long as you carry identification (in our case, NSW driving licences which show a date of birth). Another fantastic aid while availing ourselves of this wonderful free travel in Prague was the Citymapper app. It proved invaluable while negotiating signs in a difficult-to-pronounce language comprising more consonants than vowels. It was also extremely useful for us as first-timers in London, enabling us to catch the wonderful red buses to all the places we needed to go. Yvonne Molloy, Ashfield, NSW Stolen moment Its January, 2024, and three seasoned travellers arrive in Barcelona. Reach accommodation minus one wallet, despite warnings of Barcelona street-crime. Lessons learned: dont travel on the Metro in peak hour with suitcases. Always return your wallet to your security bag, not your pocket, as I did. Keep your drivers licence - a key document - separate from cards and assume pickpockets will try it on. Positives: cards were cancelled immediately and were replaced, within hours, by virtual cards. No passports were lost and any disruption was mainly due to the loss of the driving licence. Regardless, Barcelona delighted in every other way. I will return. Anne Conlon, Summer Hill, NSW Dont get riel My experience was different from a recent correspondent regarding currency in Cambodia (Traveller Letters, January 13). I found that everywhere preferred US dollars over the local riel for payment. This included major tourist attractions and also shops. Most places published prices in US dollars and only converted to riels if asked. The only services that preferred local currency were tuk tuks and taxis. Tuktuks in Cambodia prefer the local currency. Credit: iStock Id also recommend getting a local SIM at the airport and downloading PassApp which is a Cambodian taxi app. It allows point-to-point selection on the map and avoids the need for price haggling by quoting you the fare before you get in. I found this a really valuable tool in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Angus McLeod, Cremorne, Vic On a roll While the history and the description of the Chiko Roll, provided by Ben Groundwater, was interesting for me as someone who grew up with this snack in the 70s (Traveller, January 21), his comment that it is the ultimate Australian foodstuff ... there is nothing more Australian is rather ignorant. To qualify for that epithet, it would have to be bush tucker, right? Kerrie Wehbe, Blacktown, NSW Appreciation society Most who have travelled Australia agree that our country is a unique place to experience natural wonders (Traveller, January 21). International visitors clearly rave about the Indigenous culture and beauty surrounding Uluru, appreciate our diverse wildlife, and adore our stunning coastal landscapes, beaches and the Great Barrier Reef. Reading the insights in your cover story about international travel agents was an important reminder. How fortunate we are to have such natural beauty on our doorstep. Fellow Aussie travellers, lets celebrate, appreciate and protect the wonders of Australias environment for all the years to come. Amy Hiller, Kew, Vic The Letter of the Week writer wins three Hardie Grant travel books. See hardiegrant.com London: Britains Prince Harry said his mission to purge the press would continue through to the end after he accepted substantial damages to settle his case against Mirror Group Newspapers. The Duke of Sussex also delivered another broadside against former editor Piers Morgan. In December, the High Court in London ruled that Harry had been a victim of unlawful information gathering, including phone-hacking, by journalists on the Daily Mirror, Sunday Mirror and Sunday People tabloids with the knowledge of their editors. Judge Timothy Fancourt ruled that about half the stories he examined were the result of unlawful acts and awarded the prince the first British royal for 130 years to give evidence when he appeared as a witness last June 140,600 ($272,450) in damages. The statement, issued two days after Netanyahu rejected a Hamas ceasefire proposal that also envisaged the release of hostages held by the Palestinian militant group, gave no further details. To conduct such an operation right now with no planning and little thought in an area where there is sheltering of a million people would be a disaster, US State Department spokesman Vedant Patel said. This is not something that wed support. Loading Still, Washington has continued its wholehearted military and diplomatic support for Israels campaign, despite Israel shrugging off its previous calls to reduce civilian casualties. In response to those calls, Israel widened its evacuation orders as its forces moved south yet the death toll in Gaza has continued to mount. Israel says Hamas is responsible for concentrating its forces in civilian areas. But its unclear where civilians would evacuate. Rafah lies trapped between Egypt to the south, the Mediterranean Sea to the west, Israel to its east and Israeli troops to its north. Earlier in the war, Israel declared that a sliver of rural area on the coast neighbouring Rafah, known as Muwasi, to be a safe zone. But in recent weeks it has bombarded the area and sent troops to seize parts of it. Palestinians looking at the destruction after an Israeli airstrike in Rafah, Gaza Strip. Credit: AP Many Palestinians in Rafah came from Gaza City and other parts of the north and want to return there. But so far, Israel has shown no willingness to allow a mass movement back north, where it says its troops largely have operational control but still fight pockets of Hamas fighters. Egypt has staunchly refused any mass exodus of Palestinians onto its soil, fearing Israel will not allow them to return. Israel is not likely to let hundreds of thousands of Palestinians take shelter on its own territory. A large area of empty dunes between the town of Rafah and the sea is now built up with a dense tent city erected by those streaming in over the past month. When winter rains hit, the area turns to cold mud, seeping into tents full of extended families with children. Women hang up bedding on clothes lines in the morning to keep them dry during the day, then lay them on the ground at night to sleep. In Rafah town itself, the main squares and streets are full of tents. Other families fill classrooms at UN schools or crowd with relatives in apartments. Everyone is hungry and sick; colds, coughs and intestinal disorders run rampant. Even simple medicines are difficult to find, requiring an hours long wait at the pharmacy. The supply chain for everything from canned food and flour to diapers comes almost entirely from the trickle of aid trucks that Israel allows into Gaza for distribution by the UN and other humanitarian groups. Large impromptu outdoor markets packed with people fill main avenues as many sell parts of allotments they receive. With such a limited supply, prices have skyrocketed. A chocolate bar that once went for the equivalent of 50 US cents now costs $US5; a single egg can cost nearly $US1. Groups of young men can sometimes be seen hanging around intersections, waiting for aid trucks to pass. They leap on the back and slash the ropes with knives to pull off bags of flour to sell or give to their families. Pressure is mounting on Israel over its threat to launch a ground assault on Rafah, the last refuge for hundreds of thousands of Palestinians. Credit: AP UN officials say 90 per cent of Gazas population is eating less than one meal a day, and a quarter of the population faces outright famine, mainly in the north, where Israeli restrictions have blocked many aid convoys. Rafah is the heart of the aid campaign, with trucks entering from Egypt or from a nearby Israeli crossing for distribution across the Gaza Strip. Any large-scale military operation among this population can only lead to additional layers of endless tragedy, Philippe Lazzarini, head of UNRWA, the main agency leading the humanitarian effort said. Israel has vowed to eliminate Hamas throughout the Gaza Strip after the groups October 7 attack on southern Israel, in which some 1200 people were killed and the militants abducted some 250 hostages over 100 of whom remain in captivity. Netanyahu said this week that preparations were underway for the military to move on Rafah, though he did not say when. We are on the way to an absolute victory, he said. There is no other solution. The Israeli onslaught has killed nearly 28,000 Palestinians and left much of northern Gaza a devastated wasteland. For weeks, fighting has focused on central Gaza and the southern city of Khan Younis, where bombardment and ground fighting has wreaked similar destruction. In recent days, Israeli bombardment of Rafah has escalated. On Friday, strikes levelled two buildings, killing at least eight, including three children and a woman. In the tent city, Najah Hasheasho said the wooden frame draped with plastic that her family lives in shakes every time a blast hits the area. We want to go back to Gaza City. Thats our home, she said. Loading A neighbour in the camp, Nahed Abu Asi, said that like many, he believes Israel wants to push the population into Egypt permanently. We wont go into Egypt, he said. Well make our way back to Gaza City and die there or in any place on the soil of Gaza. AP, Reuters Toyota Boshoku America Signs Long-term Renewable Energy Certificate Agreement ERLANGER, Ky.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Toyota Boshoku America, Inc. (TBA), a leading global automotive interior systems supplier, announces that it has signed a 12-year agreement to purchase a portion of the renewable energy certificates (RECs) generated from the recently completed Texas Solar Nova 1 solar farm located in Kent County, TX. This is the first of a two-phased 452 MW solar complex developed by Clearway Energy Group (Clearway). This 12-year REC agreement provides TBA with RECs generated by the project every year starting in 2026. This is TBAs first renewable energy procurement at scale in the U.S. and will enable the company to effectively offset 100% of its annual electricity consumption in its U.S. and Canada facilities with renewable energy. The renewable energy procurement deal will help TBA make significant strides towards its target to reduce Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gases (GHG) direct and certain indirect emissions, respectively by 100% by 2035 from a 2019 base year, and its commitment to become carbon neutral by 2050. The 452 MW solar farm is being constructed in two phases, with Texas Solar Nova 1 completed in December 2023 and the second phase nearing completion. TBAs contract and commitment as a buyer of a portion of the renewable energy attributes ensured that the project would meet all financing targets and milestones necessary to bring the project online. TBA is thrilled to reach this agreement with Clearway for renewable energy certificates. One of our core values as a company is to do what is right and contribute to society. A significant part of this value is to ensure we are doing our part to protect the environment for generations to come. This contract along with other activities we continue to undertake show our on-going commitment to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Ryan Hunt, TBA Vice President of Production Control. We take great pride in our instrumental role in enabling TBA to swiftly and effectively reach their target of 100% renewable energy consumption in the U.S. and Canada," stated John Powers, VP, Renewable Energy and Cleantech, Schneider Electric. Our collaborative relationship has been pivotal in shaping TBA's renewable energy strategy, underscoring their dedication to fast-tracking sustainable progress. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with them on the subsequent phases of their decarbonization journey globally. TBAs commitment in achieving its sustainability goals is helping power the clean energy transition, said Valerie Wooley, Senior Vice President of Origination at Clearway. Were proud that our solar project in Kent County will help TBA achieve its goals through a long-term REC agreement. RECs generated from this solar farm will be listed with the Center for Resource Solutions (CRS), so it will meet all requirements for certification pursuant to the Green-e Renewable Energy Standard for the U.S. and Canada. Schneider Electric, the leading advisor on corporate renewable energy procurement globally, supported the Company in the selection of and negotiations for the project. About Toyota Boshoku America Toyota Boshoku, one of the worlds premium interior systems suppliers and filter manufacturers, develops and produces interior, filtration, and powertrain components. With world headquarters in Kariya City, Japan, Toyota Boshoku Corporation owns Toyota Boshoku America, Inc. (TBA) based in Erlanger, Kentucky. TBA and its affiliates employ over 14,000 Team Members in 23 locations throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina. TBA Group is a premier manufacturer of automotive interior systems, which include seat, door trim, headliner, substrate, and carpet in addition to air and oil filters for a variety of customers such as Toyota, BMW, and Subaru. For more information visit https://www.toyota-boshoku.com/us/. About Toyota Boshoku Sustainability Goals Toyota Boshoku group will continue efforts to reduce environmental burdens and conserve biodiversity through development, design, production, and logistics. We aim for a sustainable global environment future generations can enjoy. 10-year-old 'rocket boy' aims for second blast-off in June People's Daily Online) 14:27, February 08, 2024 Photo shows Yan Hongsen and his rocket model. (yangtse.com/courtesy of the interviewee) Yan Hongsen, a 10-year-old Chinese student who previously gained viral attention for pointing out factual inaccuracies in a video at a planetarium, is now working on building his second solid-fuel rocket. In October 2023, Yan began building his second rocket, which is slated for launch in June of this year, according to his father. Yan, dubbed "rocket boy," is a fourth-grade student at a primary school in Shaoxing city, east China's Zhejiang Province. "While other students were focusing on exam preparations, he was obsessed with building rockets," his father remarked. A video showing Yan at a computer designing a circuit board for his second rocket, shared by his father, has gained widespread attention online recently. "Many people assumed that I was the one who helped him with the design, but I didn't have a clue. He independently learned about computer programming, physics, chemistry, aerospace theories, and electronic circuits through online courses," his father explained. Yan Hongsen works on designing a circuit board for his rocket. (yangtse.com/courtesy of the interviewee) Space science has captivated Yan since he was just 4 years old. It was then that he and his father watched a rocket launch at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China's Gansu Province, sparking his interest in rockets upon returning home. "At first, we didn't pay much attention to Yan's fascination with rockets. But as he delved deeper into the subject, we started to support and guide him," his father recounted. He added that he would take Yan to aerospace museums across the country whenever possible. Over the years, they have visited over 30 aerospace and science museums nationwide. Yang Liwei, China's first astronaut to enter space, talks with Yan Hongsen. (yangtse.com/courtesy of the interviewee) Yan's ascent to internet fame began in July 2022 after a video uploaded by his father went viral. In the video, Yan adeptly pointed out inaccuracies in the depiction of a rocket in an educational film at a planetarium in Lhasa, capital of southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region. The planetarium acknowledged Yan's sharp observation and promptly corrected the errors in their educational film. On Aug. 24, 2022, Yan had the opportunity to meet Zhang Yuhua, a notable figure in China's space exploration efforts. It was on this day that he expressed his ambition to build his own rocket. From August 2022 to June 2023, Yan dedicated 10 months to researching, studying, doing experiments, and successfully building his first rocket. However, upon launch, the rocket started to fall after traveling 200 meters, failing to deploy its parachute, Yan's father recounted, noting that Yan was dissatisfied with the result. Yan Hongsen makes spare parts for his rocket. (yangtse.com/courtesy of the interviewee) Yan meticulously analyzed the shortcomings of his first attempt. As he embarked on building his second rocket in October 2023, he implemented significant changes in material selection, engine design, and flight control functions. Numerous experts in the aerospace sector have offered Yan assistance with his rocket project, according to his father. "Every child has their own interests," Yan's father observed, emphasizing that parents should encourage their children to explore new avenues and uncover their potential strengths. (Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Hongyu) Key Insights Using the 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity, UOL Group fair value estimate is S$4.57 UOL Group's S$6.10 share price signals that it might be 34% overvalued Analyst price target for U14 is S$7.70, which is 69% above our fair value estimate How far off is UOL Group Limited (SGX:U14) from its intrinsic value? Using the most recent financial data, we'll take a look at whether the stock is fairly priced by projecting its future cash flows and then discounting them to today's value. This will be done using the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Believe it or not, it's not too difficult to follow, as you'll see from our example! Companies can be valued in a lot of ways, so we would point out that a DCF is not perfect for every situation. Anyone interested in learning a bit more about intrinsic value should have a read of the Simply Wall St analysis model. Check out our latest analysis for UOL Group 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. In the first stage we need to estimate the cash flows to the business over the next ten years. 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. Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, so we discount the value of these future cash flows to their estimated value in today's dollars: 10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (SGD, Millions) S$424.3m S$375.8m S$348.1m S$332.2m S$323.7m S$319.8m S$319.1m S$320.6m S$323.6m S$327.7m Growth Rate Estimate Source Est @ -17.20% Est @ -11.43% Est @ -7.38% Est @ -4.55% Est @ -2.57% Est @ -1.19% Est @ -0.22% Est @ 0.46% Est @ 0.94% Est @ 1.27% Present Value (SGD, Millions) Discounted @ 9.8% S$386 S$312 S$263 S$229 S$203 S$183 S$166 S$152 S$140 S$129 ("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St) Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = S$2.2b Story continues The second stage is also known as Terminal Value, this is the business's cash flow after the first stage. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a country's GDP growth. In this case we have used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (2.1%) to estimate future growth. In the same way as with the 10-year 'growth' period, we discount future cash flows to today's value, using a cost of equity of 9.8%. Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033 (1 + g) (r g) = S$328m (1 + 2.1%) (9.8% 2.1%) = S$4.3b Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= S$4.3b ( 1 + 9.8%)10= S$1.7b 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$3.9b. The last step is to then divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of S$6.1, the company appears reasonably expensive at the time of writing. Remember though, that this is just an approximate valuation, and like any complex formula - garbage in, garbage out. dcf The Assumptions The calculation above is very dependent on two assumptions. The first is the discount rate and the other is the cash flows. You don't have to agree with these inputs, I recommend redoing the calculations yourself and playing with them. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at UOL Group as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 9.8%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.684. 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 UOL Group Strength Debt is well covered by earnings. 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 Real Estate market. Expensive based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value. Opportunity U14's financial characteristics indicate limited near-term opportunities for shareholders. Threat Debt is not well covered by operating cash flow. Annual earnings are forecast to decline for the next 3 years. Next Steps: Although the valuation of a company is important, it is only one of many factors that you need to assess for a company. The DCF model is not a perfect stock valuation tool. Preferably you'd apply different cases and assumptions and see how they would impact the company's valuation. For instance, if the terminal value growth rate is adjusted slightly, it can dramatically alter the overall result. Why is the intrinsic value lower than the current share price? For UOL Group, there are three important items you should explore: Risks: Case in point, we've spotted 2 warning signs for UOL Group you should be aware of, and 1 of them is potentially serious. Future Earnings: How does U14'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. Chipmakers are struggling to get enough Americans trained for the positions needed to keep pace with growing demand. The Biden administration on Friday announced its latest effort to help alleviate the problem. The White House said Friday that the US expects to invest more than $5 billion in a public-private consortium aimed at supporting research and development in advanced computer chips. A key part of the mission of this National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) would be to stand up a "Workforce Center of Excellence" funded with hundreds of millions of those dollars. The center plans to set up shop in different regions of the US to try and spur the training of more semiconductor engineers. "I cannot overestimate how important this is," Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said of the workforce efforts on a call with reporters this week. "Every semiconductor company we talk to says their success will rely upon having enough highly trained, qualified people to work in the industry," she added. It remains to be seen if the new effort will be enough to make a dent in labor market concerns that have emerged as a significant roadblock in the effort to bring more chipmaking to the US, not to mention President Bidens reelection efforts. President Joe Biden holds a semiconductor during an event at the White House in 2021 in Washington, DC. (Doug Mills/Pool/Getty Images) (Pool via Getty Images) Until this week's announcement, much of the responsibility for training workers fell to state and local governments as well as the companies themselves. But observers repeatedly warned that those efforts wouldnt be enough, with more dramatic policy solutions likely becoming inevitable. And with efforts to alleviate the problem via immigration likely foreclosed by the political climate in Washington, the focus has turned toward training new workers. Arizona is set to be a hotbed of the growing US chip sector but has already seen labor issues impinge on those plans. The Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) is at work on a flagship fabrication plant in northern Phoenix but recently announced a delay in the plant's full-scale launch from 2024 to 2025. It cited worker shortages as a reason for the delay. Story continues Intel (INTC) is also reportedly slowing the construction timetable on its $20 billion plant in Ohio, but that delay has primarily been caused by a slowing chip market as well as issues with the rollout of government grant money, according to the Wall Street Journal. President Joe Biden toured the under-constructon TSMC Semiconductor Manufacturing Facility in Phoenix in December 2022. (BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Getty Images) (BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI via Getty Images) A need to 'scale up' The White House's workforce plan, per a fact sheet released by the administration, is to launch new programs but also leverage the existing local efforts to "scale up proven education and training programs." A senior administration official added this week that the workforce efforts would be focused on both supporting the manufacturing capacity as well as the emerging research and development efforts. The overall goal of the Biden administrations effort is to reverse a downward spiral for the industry in the US in recent decades. American semiconductor manufacturings share of the global market has fallen from nearly 40% in 1990 to less than 10% today, according to the White House. The situation is even worse with the worlds most advanced semiconductors, 100% of which are currently manufactured overseas. The plants under construction in the US are designed to change that, but the workforce issues could only grow in the years ahead. "It's just become a huge issue, ... and it's just not clear where these workers are coming from," noted Greg Wright, a professor of economics at the University of California Merced, in an interview last week. "If we can't even get the workforce straightened out, I don't know what's going to happen," he added. President Biden signed the CHIPS and Science Act into law on Aug. 9, 2022, and it has been the subject of intense lobbying in the 17 months since. Semiconductor giants like Intel, Micron (MU), IBM (IBM), and the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company have all been vying for a piece of the money. In total, the bill sets aside about $50 billion for grants to the semiconductor sector. That is divided between $39 billion earmarked for manufacturers and $11 billion set aside for chip research and design purposes. Fridays announcement was focused on that latter pot of money, with the NSTC being described as the centerpiece of the administrations R&D efforts. Still to come are the highly anticipated direct grants to companies. Most of that money has not yet been allocated, but administration officials promise more details within the next two months. Ben Werschkul is Washington correspondent for Yahoo Finance. Click here for politics news related to business and money Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance It's been a good week for Werner Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ:WERN) shareholders, because the company has just released its latest yearly results, and the shares gained 5.1% to US$41.49. It looks like the results were a bit of a negative overall. While revenues of US$3.3b were in line with analyst predictions, statutory earnings were less than expected, missing estimates by 6.0% to hit US$1.76 per share. Following the result, the analysts have updated their earnings model, and it would be good to know whether they think there's been a strong change in the company's prospects, or if it's business as usual. Readers will be glad to know we've aggregated the latest statutory forecasts to see whether the analysts have changed their mind on Werner Enterprises after the latest results. See our latest analysis for Werner Enterprises Following last week's earnings report, Werner Enterprises' 13 analysts are forecasting 2024 revenues to be US$3.28b, approximately in line with the last 12 months. Per-share earnings are expected to accumulate 9.0% to US$1.93. Yet prior to the latest earnings, the analysts had been anticipated revenues of US$3.40b and earnings per share (EPS) of US$2.37 in 2024. The analysts seem less optimistic after the recent results, reducing their revenue forecasts and making a real cut to earnings per share numbers. The analysts made no major changes to their price target of US$43.75, suggesting the downgrades are not expected to have a long-term impact on Werner Enterprises' valuation. Fixating on a single price target can be unwise though, since the consensus target is effectively the average of analyst price targets. As a result, some investors like to look at the range of estimates to see if there are any diverging opinions on the company's valuation. The most optimistic Werner Enterprises analyst has a price target of US$59.00 per share, while the most pessimistic values it at US$36.00. This shows there is still a bit of diversity in estimates, but analysts don't appear to be totally split on the stock as though it might be a success or failure situation. Story continues Looking at the bigger picture now, one of the ways we can make sense of these forecasts is to see how they measure up against both past performance and industry growth estimates. These estimates imply that revenue is expected to slow, with a forecast annualised decline of 0.1% by the end of 2024. This indicates a significant reduction from annual growth of 8.0% over the last five years. Compare this with our data, which suggests that other companies in the same industry are, in aggregate, expected to see their revenue grow 7.3% per year. So although its revenues are forecast to shrink, this cloud does not come with a silver lining - Werner Enterprises is expected to lag the wider industry. The Bottom Line The biggest concern is that the analysts reduced their earnings per share estimates, suggesting business headwinds could lay ahead for Werner Enterprises. On the negative side, they also downgraded their revenue estimates, and forecasts imply they will perform worse than the wider industry. The consensus price target held steady at US$43.75, with the latest estimates not enough to have an impact on their price targets. Keeping that in mind, we still think that the longer term trajectory of the business is much more important for investors to consider. We have forecasts for Werner Enterprises going out to 2026, and you can see them free on our platform here. And what about risks? Every company has them, and we've spotted 1 warning sign for Werner Enterprises you should know about. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Just a week after Elon Musks $55 billion Tesla payday was struck down by a Delaware judge, a New York court dismissed a challenge to Apple CEO Tim Cooks compensation package, which clocked in at under $100 million. Some coincidence. At face value, the two cases seem to have a lot in common. Both were shareholder suits waged against some of the highest-paid superstar tech CEOs in the world. And both were filed amid a backdrop of increased public scrutiny over executive compensation in recent years, which is near all-time highs across S&P 500 companies. But for all their similarities, from a legal standpoint the two cases are apples and orangesand Cook was always going to stand a better chance of holding on to his paycheck. Elon Musks $55 billion compensation package at Tesla made headlines last month after Delaware chancellor Kathaleen McCormick ruled in favor of a shareholder who argued that Tesla was paying its CEO an unfairly high amount with the moonshot grant. Plaintiff Richard Tornetta argued that because Musk wields so much power at Tesla and maintains close relationships with his board members, the supposedly independent board of directors vote approving his massive pay scheme was anything but. Chancellor McCormick found that the process for setting Elon Musks pay was essentially controlled by Elon Musk, said Tulane University law professor Ann M. Lipton in an interview with Fortune. The board didnt engage in any kind of pushback or real bargaining. In response, Musk has threatened to relocate Tesla from Delaware (where almost 70% of Fortune 500 companies are incorporated) to Texas, where a more favorable political climate could leave him less exposed to these types of challenges. While the Musk case was focused on a broad, more abstract legal question related to the Tesla board of directors degree of independence, the Cook case resolved yesterday was much simpler. The question before Delaware [in the Musk case] was simply, Was the pay substantively unfair? whereas the question in the Tim Cook case was solely, Was the proxy statement misleading? said Lipton. Story continues The Teamsters pension fund sued Apple last year, arguing that the company had misled investors by misrepresenting Cooks 2021 and 2022 pay in its proxy statements and paying him more than it had initially proposed. Because Cook and other Apple executives are primarily paid in equity known as RSUs, the company enlists financial models to estimate what Cooks actual pay will be for shareholders approval each year. (For CEOs, being compensated primarily with stock isnt uncommon. Mark Zuckerberg famously earns just $1 in annual salary, but hes made billions through Meta stock grants included in his compensation package. The Economic Policy Institute found in a report last year that stock-related pay accounts for over 80% of CEO compensation.) The pension fund that sued Cook argued that Apple misrepresented its CEOs actual compensation package by downplaying the value of his equity. Cook and other Apple executives netted over $90 million in compensation for 2021 and 2022, higher than the $77.5 million estimate the company initially asked shareholders to vote on for approval. (Both of those figures are well below Cooks current annual compensation; at his own request, the Apple CEO took a 40% pay cut last year. That change was approved by shareholders and the Apple boards compensation committee, which counts former Vice President Al Gore as one of its members.) The plaintiffs claimed that Apple used an unusual financial model to artificially deflate Cooks pay estimate, and also buried the compensation tables in a drab, gray section of the proxy statement, where shareholders would be less likely to notice it before casting their Say-on-Pay votes. The court didnt buy it. What happened with Tim Cook is very common in public companies, said Marc Hodak, partner at executive compensation consultancy Farient Advisors. They award performance shares based on the face value of the stock. And each of those performance share units has a market value thats higher than the face value stock at the time of grant. One key difference between the two cases was the size of the contested pay package. Musks $55 billion award from Tesla was part of the largest compensation plan in corporate history. While Cooks $100 million annual pay is by no means a small sum, its on par with his peers. In fact, Apple uses a group of its competitors, including Meta, Netflix, Visa, and Cisco, to benchmark its executives compensation. (Notably, it added Tesla to that peer group last year.) I dont have any question that the size and scale of [Musks] pay package was a driver, both in terms of the litigation and the decision that we saw, said Hodak. [$55 billion] is automatically going to attract an unusual amount of scrutiny. Taken together, these two cases do seem to hint at a broader trend toward greater scrutiny of bloated CEO paybut Lipton advised against reading the tea leaves prematurely. Elon Musk is beating this drum that everyone should leave Delaware, to suggest that somehow this is a trend, said Lipton. I think this is an Elon Musk problem. That Tim Cook thing, it was a different law. It was a different argument. Representatives from Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment. This story was originally featured on Fortune.com WYFC: Governor Gordon's 2025/2026 Budget: Unaffordable and Unsustainable In late 2023, Governor Gordon submitted his state budget. The Governor described his budget as disciplined, business like, forward-thinking, fiscally conservative, realistic, practical, balanced, 'prudent, sustainable, and living within our means. The Wyoming Freedom Caucus has thoroughly reviewed the Governors budget and would ourselves describe it as UNAFFORDABLE and UNSUSTAINABLE. This is the largest budget in the history of Wyoming, boasting record spending and revenue. It is more than 33% larger than the budget the Governor inherited when he took office in 2019 ($8.1B then, ~$10.8B today.) Have you seen your household income increase 33% over the last five years? This budget constitutes a 12% increase over what the Governor recommended in the last budget. Have you seen your household income increase 12% over the last two years? If the Governors budget is approved, state employees will have seen a 30% increase in total compensation from the 2020/2021 budget. How many of you have seen your total compensation packages increase 30% in the last five years? The budget department of the Legislative Service Office (LSO) has determined that maintaining the same level of services as included in the previous state budgets would require a new budget of $8.7 billion. Nevertheless, the Governor says that his $10.8 billion budget is based on need, This constitutes a growth of government of $2.1 billion. In other words, the Governors frugal, fiscally conservative and practical budget is 24% more than what the LSO says is needed to provide the same level of service as provided in past years. How does one increase a budget 33% in just five years? Among the prudent and practical recommendations from the Governor in this budget: $166 million in increased personnel costs (salaries, health insurance, pension contributions) for the existing 6,900 state employees (that equates to ~$12,000 each year for each employee in increased salary, health insurance coverage and pension contributions). $21.8 million for a new gun/firing range. $10 million in contingency. $38 million for affordable housing. $7.5 million to build a new helibase. This is only a partial list of the over 700 requests the Governor is making to increase this budget $2.1 billion beyond what the LSO says is required to operate state government. Can the Governor really claim his budget is frugal, fiscally conservative, practical, prudent? Meanwhile, under Governor Gordons leadership, Wyoming has seen median household income decrease 2% from 2018-2022, while state employee personnel costs have increased in excess of 30%. The Governors Wyoming Business Council has spent more than $370 million over the last 10 years with the intention of expanding and diversifying our economy and growing the private sector. Yet, during that same 10-year period, private sector real GDP has decreased $2.4 billion Sometimes our colleagues give the Wyoming Freedom Caucus more credit than we deserve. To pass or stop anything during this upcoming legislative session, 32 votes are needed. In other words, the conservatives in the House do not have enough votes to derail any of the big spending ambitions of Cheyennes insider class. That does not mean, though, that we will not try our best to stop the tsunami of unaffordable and unsustainable spending increases they will try to enact. Shares of Toyota Motor (NYSE: TM) were gaining this week after the automaker reported strong third-quarter results, showing that its strategy of investing in hybrid vehicles instead of electric vehicles (EVs) is paying off. The news came as investor sentiment in the auto sector continued to shift from EVs toward legacy automakers. As a result, Toyota finished the week up 10.8%, according to data from S&P Global Market Intelligence. Image source: Getty Images. Toyota is figuring it out The world's biggest automaker by vehicles sold posted strong revenue growth in the third quarter, up 23.4% to 12 trillion yen. Operating income jumped 76% to 1.68 trillion yen, showing off strong margin expansion. Operating margin improved from 10% to 14%, outpacing peers like GM, Ford, and Tesla. Earnings per share nearly doubled from 53.4 yen to 100.62 yen. Results were strong across the board as it delivered sales growth in all geographies, with North America being a particular standout. Revenue in North America jumped 38% to 4.96 trillion yen, and operating income in the region flipped from a loss of 17.9 billion yen in the quarter a year ago to a profit of 227.4 billion yen. Japan, the source of nearly half of its revenue and most of its operating profit, also showed off strong growth and margin expansion. Toyota shares reached a record high on Wednesday as the report helped convince investors that the company had made the right strategic decision of prioritizing hybrids over battery electric vehicles. Recent comments from Ford and other automakers have echoed that sentiment. Toyota was also able to pass along higher prices, which helped drive the expansion in operating margin. After the earnings report, Toyota announced a $1.3 billion investment at its flagship Kentucky plant to support future electrification efforts, including a three-row battery electric SUV for the U.S. market, showing it's still investing in EVs. Can Toyota stock keep climbing? Toyota raised its guidance for the year, calling for unit sales of 11.2 million and revenue of 43.5 trillion yen, up from an earlier forecast of 43 trillion yen. It also expects operating income to be 4.9 trillion yen, equal to $32.8 billion. Story continues Its efforts in Kentucky show the company still plans to compete in EVs, but it's taken a deliberately slower pace than some of its competitors. If the market continues to shift toward hybrids and EV demand keeps cooling off, expect Toyota stock to keep moving higher. Should you invest $1,000 in Toyota Motor right now? Before you buy stock in Toyota Motor, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now and Toyota Motor wasnt one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Stock Advisor provides investors with an easy-to-follow blueprint for success, including guidance on building a portfolio, regular updates from analysts, and two new stock picks each month. The Stock Advisor service has more than tripled the return of S&P 500 since 2002*. See the 10 stocks *Stock Advisor returns as of February 5, 2024 Jeremy Bowman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Tesla. The Motley Fool recommends General Motors and recommends the following options: long January 2025 $25 calls on General Motors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Why Toyota Motor Stock Jumped This Week was originally published by The Motley Fool Chichibu Distillery partners with new UK distributor Speciality Brands has announced its new deal with Chichibu Distillery. From April 2024 the company will take over from Speciality Drinks as exclusive UK distributor of Chichibus small batch whisky. Japanese brand Chichibu began distilling in 2008 and is known for its meticulous production process. Chichibu Distillery was founded by Ichiro Akuto, whose family has long been involved in alcohol production in Japan. Speciality Brands describes the distillery as having cult status with whisky fans. Chris Seale, managing director at Speciality Brands, says the company is thrilled to join forces with Chichibu. He continues: This partnership aligns seamlessly with our mission to bring exceptional spirits to the UK and will greatly strengthen our world whisky offering. We look forward to introducing Chichibu's remarkable whiskies to our customers and spirits drinkers in the market. The six expressions joining Speciality Brands portfolio are: Ichiros Malt & Grain World Blended Whisky 46.5% ABV RRP 69.95 Ichiros Malt Double Distilleries 46.5% ABV RRP 110 Ichiros Malt Wine Wood Reserve 46.5% ABV RRP 110 Ichiros Malt Mizunara Wood Reserve 46.5% ABV RRP 110 Ichiros Malt & Grain World Blended Whisky Limited Edition 48.5% ABV RRP 175 Ichiros Malt Double Distilleries 2021 Chichibu x Komagatake 53.5% ABV RRP 300 9 February 2024 - Lucy Schofield Big decision Govt to scrap India-Myanmar Free Movement Regime NEW DELHI : UNION Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday said the Centre has decided to scrap the India-Myanmar Free Movement Regime (FMR) to maintain the countrys internal security and demographic structure of the N-E States. As the Ministry of External Affairs is currently in the process of scrapping it, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has recommended the immediate suspension of FMR, Shah said. FMR allows people residing close to the India-Myanmar border to venture 16 km into each others territory without any documents. It is Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi Jis resolve to secure our borders. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has decided that the Free Movement Regime (FMR) between India and Myanmar be scrapped to ensure the internal security of the country and to maintain the demographic structure of Indias North Eastern States bordering Myanmar, Shah said on X. The announcement came two days after Shah said India has decided to fence the entire 1,643-km-long India-Myanmar border. The India-Myanmar border, which passes through Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh, currently has FMR. It was implemented in 2018 as part of Indias Act East policy. Fencing along the border has been a persistent demand of the Imphal valley-based Meitei groups which have been alleging that tribal militants often enter into India through the porous border. The Meitei groups also allege that narcotics are being smuggled into India taking advantage of the unfenced international border. Furthermore, two pilot projects of fencing through a hybrid surveillance system are under execution. Manipur shares around 390 kms of porous border with Myanmar, but only about 10 kms has been fenced so far. In July last year, the State Government shared data that around 700 illegal immigrants entered the state. Besides, Mizoram has seen an influx of anti-Junta rebels in thousands since the military coup in Myanmar on February 1, 2021. According to Government estimates, several thousand refugees are living in different parts of Mizoram since the coup. Mizoram shares a 510-km-long porous border with Myanmar. Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh had also said that several persons from Myanmar tried to enter into his state but returned on seeing the presence of a large number of security personnel. Apart from Manipur and Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh shares a 520-km border with Myanmar while Nagaland shares a 215-km border with the country. On February 3, after meeting Shah, the Manipur Chief Minister said the Centre is set to take some important decisions in the interests of the people of the state. Manipur has been witnessing sporadic violence. Ethnic violence broke out in Manipur on May 3, 2023 after a tribal solidarity march was organised in the hill districts to protest against the majority Meitei communitys demand for Scheduled Tribe status. Since then over 200 people have been killed in the continuing violence. While a section of Kukis have demanded a separate administration or separation from the Manipur government, the Meitei groups are dead against it and warned legislators against any such design and asked them to foil such attempts. Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipurs population and live mostly in the Imphal valley, while tribals, which include Nagas and Kukis, constitute 40 per cent and reside mainly in the hill districts. The rest belong to other communities. A series of confidence building measures were taken and that include constitution of a judicial inquiry committee, financial aids to the victims and sending additional troops. Shah had visited the state for four consecutive days in his efforts to calm down the warring communities. However, intermittent violence continue. Winona LaDuke is denying allegations that she made unauthorized loans to family members for non-business purposes while executive director of Honor the Earth, an environmental nonprofit investigated by Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison. In a Jan. 31 court petition for an "assurance of discontinuance" order, Ellison alleged that LaDuke frequently authorized transactions between Honor the Earth and family members who worked for the nonprofit "for purposes that did not benefit the corporation." The petition alleges several interest-free loans were made without board approval, and often without proper documentation, to family members for "large purchases" such as vehicles and to pay for rent and bills. The petition also alleges that LaDuke and the organization mishandled claims of sexual harassment by employees, and notes that the nonprofit admitted it lacked a systematic recordkeeping procedure. Ellison said in a statement last week that the investigation found that Honor the Earth "did not meet the expectations that Minnesotans have for all charitable organizations." LaDuke denied many of the allegations in a statement Wednesday to the Star Tribune, as did her attorney Bruce D. Nestor in a letter to the Attorney General's Office. "There are some inaccuracies in the Attorney General's notice regarding Honor the Earth, which should be corrected," LaDuke said inaccuracies which, according to Nestor, "harm Ms. LaDuke's reputation." According to LaDuke's statement, any loans given to her biological children were the same loans that went to other employees, and were repaid with payroll deductions. "I did not approve any loans to my children nor did I supervise their employment," she stated. Nestor rejected the allegation that the loans did not benefit the program, saying they were necessary for employees to do their jobs. "Many employees of Honor the Earth were low-income and would encounter unexpected expenses which would limit their ability to perform their jobs or travel to meetings," he said, adding that LaDuke's children qualified for the program. Story continues Ellison's petition states that LaDuke's daughter, two sons and a sister worked for the nonprofit, but LaDuke said her sister was never associated with the nonprofit or received a loan. LaDuke said about 15 payroll advances went to employees in the last two years, and that two of her children received loans. Spokesman Brian Evans said that that Attorney General's Office stands by the allegations in the petition. LaDuke co-founded Honor the Earth, along with Indigo Girls Amy Ray and Emily Saliers, in 1993. She resigned as executive director in April 2023, shortly after Honor the Earth lost a sexual harassment case in which a Becker County jury awarded former employee Margaret Campbell $750,000 for lost wages and emotional distress. Ellison's petition says that documents show LaDuke issued memoranda to the group's board dismissing additional complaints of sexual harassment and misconduct without investigating. But in her statement, she denied allegations that she failed to properly handle internal complaints of sexual harassment and misconduct. Nestor said Honor the Earth was a "relatively small organization which did not have the internal structures or capacity to deal with human resource issues which may be considered standard in larger corporations." LaDuke said in Nestor's letter that the complaints were "appropriately investigated in light of the information known to her and Honor the Earth at the time." Honor the Earth officials declined to comment on LaDuke's response. They issued a statement last week noting that none of LaDuke's family members were still employed there. "We welcome this assurance as it signifies a new phase in Honor [the Earth]'s development, one that allows us to redirect our focus to the important issues at hand fighting for our rights as Indigenous peoples, while continuing to develop ways to repair harm within our community," Executive Director Krystal Two Bulls said. LaDuke was paid an annual salary of $88,500 in 2021, and Honor the Earth received more than $7 million in contributions and grants that year, according to the Attorney General's Office. Honor the Earth's tax filing for 2017 reported a loan approved by the board of $4,999 from the nonprofit to assist someone with "short-term emergency need," and listed LaDuke as an "interested person." The filing reported that the nonprofit had a "board-approved policy" at the time so that loans under $5,000 did not need board approval. The 2019 tax filing reported three "employee advance" loans of $4,000, $1,100 and $700, the last of which listed LaDuke's daughter as an "interested person." Those loans were not approved by a board or committee, according to the filing, though the $4,000 loan had a written agreement. LaDuke acknowledged there were times when Honor the Earth failed to maintain all required filings with the state and complete financial records. But in his letter, Nestor said those issues were due to circumstances "beyond the control" of LaDuke and the nonprofit, including an accountant passing away and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The "assurance of discontinuance" from Ellison includes a number of changes the nonprofit is required to make, some of which have already happened. One was that the nonprofit must fully separate from Anishinaabe Agricultural Institute and Akiing 8th Fire, which LaDuke founded and with which Honor the Earth partnered before 2023. Nestor said that Honor the Earth's protests against the Enbridge Line 3 pipeline in 2020 and 2021 "substantially" expanded demands on the nonprofit. "For over thirty years, Honor the Earth has done good work for the communities of Indigenous people with which it works," he wrote. Business proposal on paper napkin Man pitches idea to Rly Minister on flight KOLKATA : ENTREPRENEUR Akshay Satnaliwala could hardly imagine that a business proposal to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on a paper napkin during a flight would spring the railway administration in action in no time. Eastern Railway general manager Milind K Deouskar and other senior officers met Satnaliwala at the ER headquarters here and discussed the freight prospects suggested by his firm, an official said here on Thursday. ER spokesperson Kausik Mitra said Satnaliwala, director of a solid waste management company in West Bengal, explained the schematic flow of solid waste to various industries with prospective buyers in different parts of the country like Raipur in Chhattisgarh and Rajgangpur in Odisha and other clusters through the railways. The Kolkata-based entrepreneur, who was in the same Delhi-Kolkata flight with Vaishnaw on February 2, hurriedly wrote a proposal for solid waste movement by railway freight on a paper napkin as that was the only piece of paper that he could lay his hands on at that time. Sir, if you allow, I would like to present how railways can be an integral part in the supply chain of AFR (alternative fuel and raw material) to cement plants and also contribute to our Prime Ministers Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan, Satnaliwala said. The young entrepreneur had managed to hand over the hand-written business proposal to Vaishnaw during the midnight flight on February 2. To his surprise, he received a call from the ER GMs office within six minutes of landing at the NSCBI Airport here and a meeting with Deouskar was scheduled on February 6. The entrepreneur thanked the Railway Minister and the ER for responding to his appeal. I am happy that the Railway Ministry has acknowledged my proposal and given me a chance to present it in presence of all senior officials of Eastern Railway, Satnaliwala said. CM takes a dig at Rahuls Yatra Raipur, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Thursday took a dig at Congress leader Rahul Gandhis Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra and said he should first do justice with his own party leaders. Talking to reporters at the Swami Vivekanand Airport in Raipur after returning from Delhi, the CM also said those accused in the alleged Chhattisgarh State Public Service Commission (CGPSC) scam will not be spared. Gandhis yatra is scheduled to enter Chhattisgarh from Odisha on Thursday. It will be Gandhis first visit to Chhattisgarh after the November 2023 Assembly elections wherein his party was ousted from power in State. The mass outreach programme of the Congress started from Manipur on January 14 and will culminate in Mumbai on March 20. To a query on Gandhis yatra, CM Sai said, You all have seen the impact of Bharat Jodo Yatra and now he has taken out Nyay yatra. After the state assembly polls (in Chhattisgarh), many (Congress) candidates quit the party. So he should first do justice with them. I went to Delhi on Wednesday evening and met Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP national President JP Nadda and informed them about the efforts being taken to fulfil Modi ki guarantee (BJPs pre-poll promises) in State, he said. Asked about any discussion on the upcoming parliamentary elections, Sai said a discussion on the polls will be held here with BJPs state in-charge Om Mathur and joint-incharge Nitin Nabin and preparations for the polls are underway in full swing. During electioneering for the Chhattisgarh assembly polls, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had promised a probe into the alleged CGPSC scam, he noted. We have recommended a CBI probe into it and an FIR has been registered (by the states Economic Offence Wing on Wednesday). The accused will not be spared, Sai said. As per the letter by the home department to director of states EOW/Anti-Corruption Bureau on February 2, prima facie it was found that then-chairman of CGPSC Taman Singh Sonwani, thensecretary Jeevan Kishore Dhruv, then-examination controller of CGPSC and other public servants and politicians misused their positions and political influence, and manipulated the selection process in the recruitment process in 2020 and 2021, including the assistant professor selection exam 2021, and selected their sons, daughter and relatives in place of eligible candidates, a government statement earlier said. Discoms outstanding dues reduce to Rs 50,000 cr in Jan: Power Minister Business Reporter Total outstanding dues of power distribution companies have come down to around Rs 50,000 crore following the implementation of Electricity (LPS and Related Matters) Rules, 2022, Parliament was informed Thursday. Total outstanding dues of distribution companies (discoms) were at Rs 1,39,947 crore in June 2022, Power Minister R. K. Singh said in a reply to the Lok Sabha. With the implementation of the rules, a remarkable improvement has been seen in recovery of outstanding dues. The dues have reduced to Rs 49,452 crores after timely payment of eighteen (18) monthly installments as on 31.01.2024, he said Distribution companies are also paying their current dues in time to avoid regulation of open access under the rule, Singh said. This rule has not only ensured that the outstanding dues are liquidated but has also ensured that the current dues are paid on time, the minister said. It may be seen that the rule has played a vital role towards ensuring the financial discipline in discoms. This would facilitate investment in the sector necessary to sustain 24x7 electricity supply to consumers, the minister said. In a separate reply, the minister informed 19 coal-based thermal power plants of total capacity 2.3 GW retired in last three years. While, 28.8 GW power capacity added during March 2022 to December 2023 and the total installed electricity capacity of the nation stands at 428 GW, he said. Disgruntled Congress stages massive protest against Mayor switching sides Staff Reporter Expressing great ire over joining of Bharatiya Janata Party by Mayor, Jagat Bahadur Singh, disgruntled Congress workers, on Thursday stated massive protest in Gaurighat and performed tarpan of Singh as per the tradition of Sanatan Dharma on the banks of river Narmada. Congress leaders while expressing their displeasure said the Mayor has discarded the ideology of Congress for personal gains by embracing the BJP and therefore, he is considered politically dead for the Congress. As a gesture of peace for his soul, a ritual was performed following the principles of Sanatan Dharma. Seva Dal activists said if the Mayor still holds ethical values, he should resign from his position and contest elections again. They believe he has disrespected the public mandate, causing voters to feel betrayed. The activists lamented the Mayors switch of faithfulness, terming it unfortunate and symbol of his excessive personal ambition. They said despite the Congress party honored him and placed utmost trust in him, he ultimately betrayed that trust. Seva Dal members said Congress workers will continue to work for the party and strength it with full determination and energy. Protests outside Mayors office Displeased and irked over Mayor Jagat Bahadur Singhs move of joining BJP, a number of Congress workers, on Thursday staged massive protest outside Mayors office in Jabalpur Municipal Corporation headquarters. They shouted slogans against the Mayor and spread black ink on the signboard reading with Mayors name. Congressmen said the betrayal on part of Mayor Jagat Bahadur Singh has angered Congress activists. They said the Mayor has joined BJP for money, without resigning from the post of City President of Congress Party. They also expressed concerns that the Mayors decision could undermine the trust of the citys residents in these unfortunate circumstances and may promote the feelings of betrayal. Mayor Jagat Bahadur Singhs switch to the BJP has stirred tensions in local political activities, with the possibility of division among party members. Hot debate on Mahadev app A total of 90 FIRs registered in case from 2022 till now Staff Reporter RAIPUR, An intense debate transpired on the Mahadev Satta app on the query of BJP MLA Rajesh Munat in the State Legislative Assembly during question hour on Thursday. State Home Minister Vijay Sharma revealed that a total of 90 FIRs have been registered in the Mahadev Satta App case from 2022 till now. This includes 36 from Raipur, 23 from Durg, 4 from Surguja, and 2 each from Bilaspur and Janjgir. Sharma further stated that the identities of 507 suspicious bank accounts have been identified. Transactions worth Rs. 221 crores have taken place from these accounts. Currently, Rs. 1 crore 16 lakhs from these accounts has been frozen. Answering the sharp queries of MLAs, the States Home Minister Vijay Sharma announced that no one would be spared in this matter. Action will be taken against anyone found involved during the investigation, whether they are big fish or small fry. Sharma disclosed that the asset of individuals involved in the case is being confiscated. A list of those guests who travelled to Dubai via charter planes is also being compiled. Deputy Chief Minister Sharma mentioned that efforts are underway to identify the properties of absconding individuals in this case. The identities of wedding guests who went to Dubai via charter planes from Nagpur are also being ascertained. Their list has been requested. No one will be spared. Sharma also informed that the Central Investigation Agency, the Enforcement Directorate (ED), is investigating this matter. The EDs investigation is in its final stage. Home Minister Sharma stated that the ED, which is investigating the Mahadev App Satta case, has not yet shared any official information with the state government. He informed that as of February 5, no letter or official information has been received from the ED to the state government. In response, Rajesh Munat accused the officials of misleading the government. Munat stated that the ED had sent a letter to the state government on January 3. A reminder was also sent by the ED on January 30 regarding this letter. Munat stated that some officials were trying to save the high-profile names in the matter. Munat also mentioned the statement of arrested ASI Chandra Bhushan Verma. In response, Home Minister Sharma reiterated that no official information has been shared by the Enforcement Directorate with the state government yet. He also clarified that the government is not trying to save anyone. Whoever is found involved, regardless of how influential they are, will face action, Sharma assured. Rikesh Sen, MLA from Vaishali Nagar, demanded an investigation into the role of police officers stationed in Durg during the last 5 years. He also alleged that officers were taking hefty amounts every month from the operators of the Mahadev app. In the meantime, BJP MLA Dharmjeet Singh suggested emulating the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to use bulldozer action against the accused. He said that the police should instil fear among the criminals. IndiGo to elevate services in Bastar Our Correspondent JAGDALPUR, In yet another significant stride towards enhancing transportation infrastructure in the Bastar region, air connectivity is poised to receive a substantial boost with the impending introduction of IndiGo Airlines. Local residents eagerly await the onset of operations, anticipating a new era of accessibility and convenience. The residents of Bastar can anticipate a marked improvement in air transport services with the imminent arrival of Indigo Airlines, slated to initiate operations from March 31 in collaboration with Alliance Airlines. According to official sources, IndiGos flights will connect Hyderabad with Jagdalpur and Raipur daily, offering return journeys from Raipur to Hyderabad via Jagdalpur on the same day. In a bid to ensure seamless operations, Vijay Dayaram K, Collector and Chairman of Maa Danteshwari Airport, chaired a meeting of key officials at the airport. Recommendations from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) regarding airport security arrangements were conveyed to Superintendent of Police Shalabh Sinha during the meeting. Urban development directives issued instruct the Municipal Corporation to refrain from authorizing the construction of 'high-rise buildings' within a 15-kilometer radius along the approach path on both sides of the airport runway. Builders are mandated to secure a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the NOC branch of the Airport Authority of India. Several development projects are currently underway at the airport, encompassing activities such as marking and filling cracks on the runway, apron, taxiway, obstacle marking, helicopter parking facilities, and the construction of an apron strip near the apron. The Executive Engineer of the Public Works Department has been tasked with ensuring the completion of three pending projects within a month. Besides, the Aviation Department has also been urged for the approval of previously submitted estimates for various works, including runway re-carpeting, construction of an isolation way, perimeter road, boundary wall, continuity wall, drainage system, etc. Officials conducted spot inspections of all ongoing construction activities at the airport to ensure adherence to standards. The meeting was attended by Additional Collector and Nodal Officer C P Baghel, Municipal Commissioner Haresh Mandavi, PWD Executive Engineer A K Singh, Director Airport Videsh Gupta, and other concerned officers. Kerala CM leads protest in Delhi against Centre; AAP, DMK joins, Cong stays out NEW DELHI, SEVERAL I.N.D.I.A. bloc constituents on Thursday rallied around the Left Democratic Front Government of Kerala as Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan led a protest at Delhis Jantar Mantar against the Centre alleging democracy envisaged as a union of states is being crippled by its undemocratic Union over states mentality. While leaders from the AAP, the DMK and the NC were among those present, no one from the Congress was there. The Congress-led UDF opposition in Kerala which was invited to join the protest had declined it saying it does not agree with the Left narrative blaming the Centre for all of the states financial problems. Attacking the Centre, Vijayan criticised the Union over states mentality of the Centre, saying it is not only manifested in financial matters, but was evident in the functioning of governors in opposition-ruled states as well. We have all come together to register our strong protest against this and to preserve the federal structure of India. Today we are marking the beginning of a renewed fight that would herald a dawn of ensuring equitable treatment of the States, he said. N-E blessed with precious natural beauty, talented people: President NEW DELHI, PRESIDENT Droupadi Murmu on Thursday said the North-East is blessed with precious natural beauty and people there have amazing talent which is visible in their dance, music, costumes, handicrafts and cuisine. Inaugurating Vividhata Ka Amrit Mahotsav at the Rashtrapati Bhawan here, she said that many beautiful and diverse forms of Indian culture can be seen in the North East. It is a matter of great pleasure that the first edition of Vividhata Ka Amrit Mahotsav is being started with celebrations of North-East, Murmu said. The North-East is blessed with precious natural beauty. The people there have amazing talent which is visible in dance, music, costumes, handicrafts and cuisine, she was quoted as having said in a statement issued by the Rashtrapati Bhawan. The President said that the cultural diversity of India is its strength. It is our soft power. Celebrating this diversity will both showcase and experience our rich cultural heritage and the unity inherent in it, Murmu said. She expressed confidence that a large number of people will come to this festival and experience the cultural energy of the North-East. The Vividhata Ka Amrit Mahotsav is being organised at the Rashtrapati Bhawan to celebrate and showcase the rich diversity of India. This festival has been structured in the seven distinct editions dedicated to -- North-East, South, North, East, West, Central region and Union Territories. The first edition of this celebration focuses on the North-East. NO DIVIDE PRIME Minister Mr. Narendra Modis appeal to some political elements not to divide the country into north-south segments for small gains has its own significance in the current scenario. Such effort was done by the Congress and other Opposition parties following the recent legislative elections in five States. They had claimed that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) did have a domination in the north Indian region but had no presence in the southern region. That attempt was derided by most people -- commoners as well as political thinkers and experts -- as divisive. A similar effort is now being made once again -- of which the Prime Minister took note and warned against the tendencies that sought to inflict upon the country an artificial north-south division. His concern can be understood in its entirety. In a country as vast as India, democratically-held elections can produce mixed results, which India has often seen. A few political parties also establish their respective areas of dominance and rule the roost there for decades on end. This is also fully understandable and permissible, so to say. Yet, it is a wrong approach if some elements tries to establish some so-called empirical principle of how the country is geographically divided in different political camps. This is the actual concern the Prime Minister feels. We understand the Prime Ministers sense of trauma when some elements try to impose upon the country artificial and politically-driven division of the country. We realise that in such a thought lies the seed of future division -- and should, therefore, be avoided at any cost. For, when the country is sought to be segmented thus, the effort invariably leads to irreparable political damage that cosmetic word-play cannot heal. It is necessary, therefore, to avoid such temptation for small political gains. As it started making a point of north-south segmentation on the basis of domination of different parties, the Opposition has brought to fore some statistical details of how the central funds are distributed or allocated among different States by the central fund management system. The allegation, this time, is that the southern States get lesser or smaller fund-shares than their individual contributions to the central kitty. If those statistical details have any truth, then it is time the Central Government gave a serious, no-nonsense thought to the formulae of distribution of central funds to the States. If there are gaps in the sharing of central funds by the States, then those need to be addressed in all seriousness. The Centre may do well to conduct a serious, in-depth study of the central fund distribution system and the formulae by which the system operates. Such an effort -- and a possible subsequent correction in the application and implementation process -- if undertaken on an urgent basis and given an operational form, then anomalies could be removed and principle of equitability be introduced without any political bias. That will eliminate any chance of complaint from the Opposition camp, if there is any substance in those originally. The principle of devolution of power -- and also fund -- if applied in the most non-partisan manner, then much of politics that gets woven around central assistance would be erased automatically. That will, then , form the basis of improved Centre-State relations in all regions of the country. And when the Government undertakes such an exercise, the Opposition, too, should become more political unbiased so that it does not mislead the voting public into a wrong lane of thinking.The goal is to ensure that no artificial division is imposed on the country politically. NEW DELHI, BIDDING farewell to members retiring from the Rajya Sabha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday lauded the contribution of his predecessor Manmohan Singh to the House and the country, and said he will be remembered whenever democracy is discussed. Singh, he noted, came to vote in the Rajya Sabha on a wheelchair to help strengthen democracy. As he gave his best wishes to the retiring members, he expressed the hope that they will scale new heights after getting educated in this eternal university. He also hoped that the country and the new generations would benefit from their experience. The Prime Minister said while the Lok Sabha changes every five years and is adorned with a new look, the Rajya Sabha gets a new vitality and energy after every two years, that fills it with an atmosphere of new excitement and enthusiasm. That is why, he said the farewell every two years in this House is not a farewell, but leaves a priceless legacy with the indelible memories left behind for the new members. This House is a symbol of continuity, he noted. Hailing Singh, Modi said, I would especially like to remember Dr. Manmohan Singh ji. For six times he has been a member of this House and has made a huge contribution to this House with his valuable thoughts. As a leader and also as the Leader of the Opposition, he has made a very big contribution. Whenever our democracy will be discussed, he will be one of those few esteemed members whose contribution will always be remembered, Modi said. The Prime Minister said Singh coming on a wheel chair to vote in the House was an inspiring example of a members dedication to his duties. I believe he came to impart strength to democracy, Modi said as he conveyed his good wishes for the former Prime Ministers long and healthy life. Singh was first elected to the Rajya Sabha in October 1991 after he became the Finance Minister. He had six terms in the Rajya Sabha - 1991, 1995, 2001, 2007, 2013 and 2019. He is currently a member of the Council of States from Rajasthan and his term ends on April 3, 2024. PM dubs Congs black paper as kaala teeka: PRIME Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday took a jibe at the Congress for coming out with a black paper on the NDA Government, calling it a kaala teeka that will ward off the evil eye on the achievements of his Government. Whenever a good thing happens, we apply the kaala teeka (to ward off the evil eye), and I thank (Mallikarjun) Kharge ji for doing this honour today, the Prime Minister said in the Rajya Sabha. The Congress on Thursday released a black paper to highlight the failures of the Modi government, alleging that the last 10 years were a period of injustice with issues such as rising prices, unemployment, subversion of institutions and discrimination against non-BJP states plaguing the country. Modi said, When the country is touching new heights in the last ten years, we take it as kala teeka to help ward off the evil eye. He said Kharge being an elder has put this kaala teeka for the good work being done by our government in the countrys progress. Referring to the black robes earlier worn by opposition MPs in the House as a mark of protest, Modi said, We also saw a fashion parade in the Rajya Sabha when some members came in black clothes. Kharge released a 54-page charge sheet indicting the Centre ahead of the governments tabling in Parliament of a white paper on the mismanagement of the economy prior to 2014 with an aim to draw lessons. Neil Woodfords eponymous investment fund collapsed after it was hit by a wave of redemptions - Geoff Pugh Thousands of investors in Neil Woodfords fund have been forced to accept an appalling compensation scheme after the High Court backed a 230m repayment plan, campaigners say. Administrators to the fund, Link Fund Solutions (LFS), secured legal backing for a scheme on Friday that will compensate investors who lost out in 2019. However, campaigners argue that the deal is not good enough because they believe investors deserve more compensation. Mr Woodfords fund collapsed after he was hit by a wave of redemptions, forcing the company to block people from taking their money out. LFS was blamed for mismanaging the liquidity of the funds. It agreed with UK regulators to pay compensation to around 250,000 of Woodfords investors but LFS denies any wrongdoing. More than 90pc of Woodfords investors voted for the deal when it was proposed last year. However, the compensation scheme has faced criticism for trapping investors in the scheme and removing their rights to further compensation. The Financial Conduct Authority has backed the scheme as the best way for investors to get some money back. Around 183m will be paid into investors bank accounts in April, with the rest of the 230m set to be paid later. An appeal could derail the process, however. Woodford investors have already received around 70p in the pound after the funds holdings were liquidated. The compensation scheme will add a few more pence in the pound. However, the value of their investments was already severely depressed when the fund was liquidated, meaning many have lost money overall. Critics of the scheme say it prevents investors from launching further proceedings against Woodfords fund in the future. They say investors will be unable to complain to the Financial Ombudsman Service or the Financial Services Compensation Scheme about Links failures, which could have led to larger payouts. The scheme offers an appalling outcome for those who were trapped in Woodfords flagship fund when it was suspended in June 2019, said the Transparency Task Forces Andy Agathangelou, a campaigner for Woodfords investors. Story continues Most will get back between four and eight pence in the Pound of their outstanding capital losses, with nothing for the returns forfeited over the past four and a half years, let alone consequential losses, so much, much less than many have been led to believe by the FCA. The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Fairer Financial Services also attacked the approval. APPG chair Bob Blackman MP said the scheme was disastrous for Woodfords investors. It is unclear to me why the FCA backed the scheme, which does not appear to be in the interests of Woodford investors, consumers as a whole, or UK PLC, he said. The FCA said: We understand that LFS expects to start making payments to scheme creditors as soon as possible if there is no appeal of the judges decision. Investors voted overwhelmingly in support of the scheme. The small minority have now had their representations fully considered by a judge, who did not agree with their arguments. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. The best way out to curb mass and illegal grazing, says HoFF By Kaushik Bhattacharya As grasslands in India continue to face existential crisis, the Government of Maharashtra is quietly paving a new path for conservation of these open natural ecosystems. This holds the promise of serving as the best way to curb mass and illegal grazing and to find a solution to resultant problems. Shailesh Tembhurnikar, Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (PCCF) and Head of Forest Force (HoFF), Government of Maharashtra, while interacting with The Hitavada on the illegal grazing menace, talked about the importance of grasslands for wildlife conservation and also shared the plans of the Forest Department to encourage grasslands in the State. Grassland is an important ecosystem for wildlife, and its conservation is need of the hour to maintain balance in their life-cycle. We have lost a major portion of grasslands in recent times. But, now, we should regenerate grasslands, Tembhurnikar said. Around 15,500 villages in Maharashtra are situated in the vicinity of forests. The population of these villages is completely dependent on forest for their daily requirements such as small timber, agriculture, cattle grazing, non-timber produce, food, etc. The Forest Department has established 12,518 joint forest management committees (JFMCs) in these villages through participation of villagers who are managing these forests areas, said the HoFF. According to him, there are 3.5 crore cattle in these 15,500 villages, which are completely dependent on forest land for grazing. There is a grazing rule in the Indian Forest Act, 1927, under which the department allows a limited number of cattle to graze in forest areas. The department has a working plan for grazing which also mentions as to how many cattle will be allowed for grazing in a particular forest compartment and also the particular season for grazing. The department charges a small amount to farmers and villagers for grazing their cattle in forest areas. However, grazing in forest lands by outsiders like Kathiyawadis is completely illegal in Maharashtra. Our department takes action from time to time against such tribesmen, who usually come from Gujarat, Tembhurnikar said, in response to a question regarding illegal grazing. According to him, the Government is actively working to promote and increase grasslands in the State. Under a new initiative, the Forest Department has established a nursery in Mamdapur in Nashik to grow grass saplings, Tembhurnikar revealed. From this nursery, we will provide grass saplings to farmers. They can plant the saplings near their farmlands or villages. It will help them secure grass for their own cattle and reduce the excess and illegal grazing in forest lands, claimed the top officer of the Forest Department. Toyota was skeptical of electric vehicles back when that wasnt fashionable. In October 2022, for instance, then-CEO Akio Toyoda said that EVs are just going to take longer than the media would like us to believe. As other big carmakers made bold proclamations about when they go all electric, Toyota refused to play along, vowing instead to keep offering a wide array of powertrains and letting consumers decide for themselves. Thats our strategy and were sticking to it, he insisted, vowing to focus on hybrids, which this carmaker pioneered with the release of the Prius in Japan in 1997, and three years later in the U.S. Since then, the Japanese giant has steadily increased its hybrid offerings. Toyotas stance was not a good look at the timeand it didnt go over well. Toyota is not correctly responding to calls from the market to take a lead in electric vehicles, Satoru Aoyama, senior director at Fitch Ratings, told the Financial Times, warning the carmaker could lose investor confidence. Environmentalists were none too pleased, either. The fact is: a hybrid today is not green technology, blogged Katherine Garcia, director of the Sierra Clubs Clean Transportation For All campaign. The Prius hybrid runs on a pollution-emitting combustion engine found in any gas-powered carRather than invest in EVs, though, Toyota is putting corporate profits and the status quo over tackling the climate crisis. The pressure grew so intense that, partly in response, Toyodathe grandson of the companys founderleft his CEO role to become chairman. Because of my strong passion for cars, I am an old-fashioned person in regards to digitalization, electric vehicles, and connected cars. I cannot go beyond being a car guy, and that is my limitation, he said. The new team can do what I cant do. 'A strength of Toyota' But it turns out he was onto something. This week, the carmaker raised its operating profit guidance by nearly 9% for the fiscal year ending March 31, crediting higher sales of hybrid vehicles across all its major markets. Story continues That contrasted with EV leader Tesla, which despite repeated price cuts to boost demand warned that this years sales growth might be notably lower than last years. Meanwhile there are increasing signs from carmakers and markets around the world that sales growth for electric vehicles is slowing. With hybrids alone, Toyota sold roughly 3.4 million vehicles globally last year, up from 2.6 million in 2022. Tesla, by contrast, sold 1.8 million vehicles, all of them electric. In total, Toyota sold 11.2 million vehicles, allowing it to retain its crown as the top-selling carmaker for the fourth consecutive year. EV sales in the U.S. grew an impressive 51% last year, according to Edmunds, but hybrid sales did even better, jumping 63%. We think the market is now rethinking the potential of hybrid products, which are a strength of Toyota, Goldman Sachs analysts wrote in a recent research note. I want to congratulate Toyota, which was attacked for saying it was never going to go all-electric and it was going to continue to make the cars people wanted to buy, said Diana Furchtgott-Roth, director of the Center for Energy, Climate, and Environment at the Heritage Foundation, on Fox Business. For drivers, hybrids have the feel-good factor of burning less fossil fuel than normal carsfriendlier on the environment and the pocketbookwithout the range anxiety, charging issues, and resale value of EVs. (Hybrids maximize efficiency by alternating from gas to battery power.) It also helps that in the U.S. hybrids are priced closer to regular vehicles than are EVs. Of course, Toyota could end up on the wrong side of history if consumers shift to EVs faster than it expects. While Toyota does offer some EV modelsand has more in the worksthey still account for just a sliver of its overall sales. In 2022, Tesla CEO Elon Musk dismissed hybrids as a phase, saying that its time to move on from them. The last laugh might belong to him and, perhaps, Chinese rivals like Warren Buffettbacked BYD, which recently passed Tesla in global EV sales. "If consumer adoption of BEVs shifts again and speeds up, Toyota may not be fully ready, Stephanie Brinley, an associate director at S&P Global Mobility, told Reuters. But none of that stopped Toyota's chairman from doubling down on his once-unpopular stance last month, as he estimated that EVs will peak at 30% and share the roads with hybrid, traditional, and hydrogen-powered cars. This story was originally featured on Fortune.com How about a few drips and drabs of religion on a freaky Friday. That always gets people worked up in a hurry. Last week I watched a preacher stand up in the pulpit a Baptist pulpit and allude to the fact that members of other denominations and other religions might end up in heaven. He did not come right out and say it, of course, that would have been entirely too radical. But he did hint that Baptists might get to heaven and find that there were Presbyterians, Catholics and Mormons entering through the pearly gates. He expressed hope for Muslims and brought a member of that faith with him. The preachers point was that we preach religious freedom here in the United States, but we too often want that freedom limited to our faith and our denomination. He made some excellent points. I dont know how that sermon went down with the congregation, but I know how it would have gone down with my grandmother, the daughter of a Baptist preacher. There would have been fire blazing in her eyes. The sermon reminded me of an incident back in the 1930s that became legend for 20 miles around. My grandmother, her sister-in-law (who she could not stand) and a dozen others were sitting around a country store in Rappahannock County one night when the conversation, which had been congenial to that point, turned to religion. The sister-in-law was a Methodist and while Grandma conceded that there might be a few Methodists destined for heaven, she was certain her husbands sister would not be one of them. What began as a philosophical religious discussion (if there is such a thing among Baptists) quickly turned into a heated argument. As in a high-stakes poker game where the wagering gets more and more intense, one by one the other participants backed away from this discussion and let the two main combatants my grandmother and her sister-in-law battle it out. Finally, the sister-in-law made a statement that brought the argument to a head. Ive never known a Baptist yet that went to heaven! she blurted out, knowing that my grandmothers mother had died just a few months earlier. My grandmother stood up and slapped her husbands sister. Youll not speak that that way about my dead mother! Grandma yelled, where upon she packed up her husband and her daughter (my mother) and walked out the door. You really have to be careful around Baptists. We are pretty set in our ways in any number of respects, especially when it comes to seating. There are families who have sat at the same spot in the same pew for generations literally and they will look daggers at any visitor who innocently comes in and takes their assigned seats. Wed love to save the visitors soul, but not at the expense of losing our assigned seat. I suppose that goes back to the early days of our country when churchgoers paid for their pews (Episcopalians, Church of England) and to sit in anothers seat was akin to trespass. That tradition (we dont pay) continues with Baptists today, especially in smaller, rural congregations. Your seat is your seat and nobody better not mess with it. During worship service or in Sunday school, each good Baptist has his own seat. It is almost as if God assigned that spot. Turf wars have resulted over the ownership of a seat and any preacher who wants to keep his job knows better than to get involved. Preachers come and go. My great-grandmother sat in that seat 100 years ago. We can get another preacher. We cant get another seat in that spot. Me? I dont rightly care. As long as Im as far back as I can get, Im fine. Baptists, you know, fill the sanctuary from the rear. The farther back you sit, the better Baptist you are. Something about not wanting the pastor to stare you down when he preaches on a particular sin. Ah, Baptists. Ya gotta love em! Scores of parents swarmed Fremont Middle School just after noon on Thursday, Feb. 8, removing their children from classes after unsubstantiated rumors of a possible school shooting circulated among students and on various social media sites. Many rushed into the middle school parking lot, creating a long line of backed up vehicles waiting to pick up their children from the school. A Fremont police officer assigned to patrol the school on Thursday urgently called into the 911 dispatch center asking for assistance from other officers to help with the flood of parents present to take their children out of classes. By 1:45 p.m., a total of six different FPD officers were on the scene, at times helping direct traffic and later having a group meeting on the sidewalk in front of the middle schools main entrance. School was not locked down Fremont Public Schools Superintendent Mark Shepard issued a statement Thursday afternoon stating that Fremont Middle School was never in a lockdown, and thanked parents for their patience and Fremont Police Department officials for their assistance. At 11:20 a.m., a threat was discovered on social media, which prompted the worries among student and parents, Shepard said. The Fremont Police Department responded, as did FMS administration. It was determined that the threat was unsubstantiated, Shepard wrote in the press release. This same rumor had been followed up on at least a dozen times in the past 24 hours each time the same result not credible. Other posts were alluding to a firearm at the middle school, but the investigation showed no weapon at the middle school at any time. At no point was Fremont Middle School under lockdown. Lockdown notifications will be sent to parents through Remind, Shepard added. Though a lockdown alert was not sent, FMS Principal Todd Niehaus sent an alert through the Remind app, alerting parents to social media rumors, the FPDs investigation and that they were unable to be substantiated. Parents frustrated Many parents told the Tribune that they were frustrated with the middle school administration, claiming the doors to the school were locked and saying that calls made to the school went unanswered and were sent to voicemail. Shepard explained the security measures in the press release, stressing student safety is a priority. Some parents did not understand why, if the building was not in lockdown, the front doors were locked. FPS has the same protocol at all buildings, once the school day has started all doors are locked and parents must enter through the office or through a door with an electronic lock after being acknowledged by staff to do so, he said. Parents always have the ability to remove their child from school, Shepard said. We appreciate the orderliness and understanding parents displayed acknowledging the reason for the process to keep all students safe and the building accountable for each students whereabouts, Shepard stated. The Chief of Police and the FPD are to be commended for their responsiveness and due diligence as they work closely with the school district to ensure the safety of our students and staff. Mothers dont believe school is safe The Tribune spoke to four mothers Thursday who had just removed their children from the middle school following the threats. The Tribune agreed to provide anonymity to these sources due to fears of violence or retaliation. One mother, who the Tribune is identifying by the name Sarah, said she got frantic text messages from her two students in the school begging for her to come get them from classes. My daughter was messaging me, that they were scared and the kid that was threatening to shoot everyone was going to be here at 2 oclock today. And this student was someone they didnt trust to not do it, Sarah said. I got other parents who called me, and I missed their calls. When I called them back, they would not answer. I tried to call the school, and nobody would answer. Many of the parents said they were considering taking their child to a different school district. Ivanka said she doesnt feel comfortable sending her child to school. She believes security needs to be improved at all FPS campuses. Clarice said she will likely not allow her daughter to return to classes until the safety situation at the middle school improves. This is twice this week something ridiculous has happened out here, she said. I am getting really worried. I think in this day and age, metals detectors should be in front of every door. Clarices daughter told the Tribune that school has become scary. Kimberly said she does not believe the school staff can control students who fight. The fights have been out of control, she said. I try to calm down and not worry about it, but it has just gotten to the point that the second (anythings happens), I get worried. Kimberly said she feels the Fremont Public Schools and the Fremont Police Department have not done their job diligently to take care of the kids. The situation came only three days after a large brawl unfolded early Monday, before school had started. The fight was unable to be contained by school staff, and FPD officers rushed to the scene following 911 calls asking for law enforcement help. School district officials confirmed Thursday the rumors were a continuation of those that followed the fight, which resulted in the expulsion of eight students for the remainder of the school year. Police seek information on possible threats FPD Capt. Kurt Bottorff sent a press release to local and regional media outlets Thursday afternoon, urging anyone with information about possible threats to immediately contact police officials. The Fremont Police Department is asking for the publics help in regard to recent activity involving the schools. If anyone receives any information regarding any school threat, please contact our agency at 402-727-2677 and refrain from posting it on social media, Bottorff wrote in the release. This will allow us to investigate said threat or information in an effort to determine if it is creditable. Bottorff also echoed statements made a video post to the FPD Facebook page, in which Sgt. John Brady stated that the middle school was not in a lockdown and that rumors of a shooting at the school were false. Our agency continues to ask the public to reach out to us with any information they feel may be credible, Bottorff said. Please do not to post information on social media until it has been checked out. U.S. Congressman Mike Flood has announced his office will hold Military Service Academy Days in Norfolk and Bellevue. This is an opportunity for high school students to learn more about the application process to become a commissioned officer through one of our countrys five service academies: the U.S. Military Academy, Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, Coast Guard Academy, and Merchant Marine Academy. The Norfolk Military Service Academy Day will take place from 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 7, at the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce, 609 W. Norfolk Ave. The Bellevue Military Service Academy Day will be held from 8:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, March 9, at Bellevue University, John B. Muller Admin Building, 812 Bruin Blvd., in Bellevue. Applicants to the academies, excluding the Coast Guard Academy, must be nominated by a Member of Congress. These academy days are being cohosted with U.S. Senators Fischer and Ricketts offices. If you have any questions, contact Kim Kwapnioski at 202-834-2780, or if you are unable to meet on these dates, you can set up an appointment. After responding to 400 home fires in 2023, the American Red Cross of Nebraska encourages everyone to take fire safety actions. Home fires are the most common disaster, and the Red Cross often sees an increase in home fires during winter months. Below are some key ways to prepare your household: Install the right number of smoke alarms: Ensure smoke alarms are on every level of the home, including the basement and in or near sleeping areas. Practice your escape plan: Take time to discuss fire safety with your household. Familiarize children with the sound of your smoke alarm, and teach them what to do when they hear it when you practice your escape plan. Family communications plan: Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure that all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another. Avoid matches: Teach your children to tell you or a responsible adult when they find matches or lighters at home or school. Keep matches, lighters and other ignitable substances in a secured location out of reach of children. Test smoke alarms: Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside and outside bedrooms and sleeping areas. Test them monthly and replace alarm batteries as needed. Replace smoke alarms older than 10 years. If you cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install one, the Red Cross may be able to help. Contact your local Red Cross for more information. You can download the Red Cross First Aid app for quick, expert advice on what to do in case of an emergency. Find all of the Red Cross apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps. Since October 2014, the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign, working with community partners, has saved at least 1,928 lives by educating families about fire safety, helping them create escape plans and installing free smoke alarms in high-risk areas across the country. To learn more about the campaign and how you can get involved, visit redcross.org/homefires. Nebraska lawmakers voted Thursday to ditch the process that led to multiple failed contracts, including one that put a troubled Kansas-based nonprofit in charge of child welfare in the Omaha area. The bill (LB461), introduced by Speaker of the Legislature John Arch of La Vista, passed on a vote of 45-0. The measure was one of several bills given final approval on Thursday. Arch led the effort to update state procurement laws, most of which were written in the 1940s, following an investigation into the tumultuous 2019 contract with St. Francis Ministries. The contract has since been terminated. A key provision of LB461 eliminates language in current law requiring the state to award contracts to the lowest responsible bidder. Arch said earlier that the change could have prevented the Department of Health and Human Services from awarding the child welfare contract to St. Francis. No state official publicly questioned the Kansas agency's bid, even though it was 40% less than the Omaha-based agency that had been managing child welfare cases and even though a number of outside child welfare advocates raised concerns. 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. Under LB461, state officials could reject bids if the price offered was not reasonable or not realistic and they could only give contracts to responsible bidders. Arch said a reasonable price would not exceed the market rates and would be sufficient to get the job done properly. The bill also would require state agencies to prove that a contract was needed before signing a contract, rather than after. In addition, it would remove bidding preferences given to Nebraska vendors. Having such preferences makes it harder for Nebraska vendors to get contracts with other states. 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 both cases, the contracts were awarded to the lowest bidder despite potential warning signs. 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. LB461 would implement several of the recommendations, while the Department of Administrative Services is working on the rest. Some other bills that passed Thursday: Czech license plates: LB140, introduced by Sen. Tom Brandt of Plymouth, will authorize the Nebraska DMV to offer license plates celebrating Czech heritage. The final vote was 45-0. Meet the Nebraska state senators making laws in 2024 If you didn't know, the two food spots with the same name are parked up right next to each other on Auckland's New North Road. The owners of each noodle house are cousins and hate each other, accusing the other of stealing their idea. Weed out the illegal immigrants Take a look at SoO | One hopes the Chief Minister is not jumping the gun in proclaiming that the decision to fence the Indo-Myanmar border and do away with the Free Movement Regime (FMR) would prove to be a permanent solution to myriad of problems besetting Manipur. Border fencing and doing away with FMR would certainly go a long way in keeping out illegal immigrants from across the border, but this cannot be the panacea to the present issue besieging the State. Apparent that New Delhi seems intent on checking incursion from across the border, but how about the illegal immigrants who have already crossed into Manipur and are today laying ancestral claims on religious sites such as Mt Thangjing and Mt Koubru, much less enjoying the benefits of being tagged Scheduled Tribes ? How about the impunity in which armed militants of the Kuki-Zo group have been targeting villages at the foothills across the State ? So far New Delhi has not spoken a word about the SoO pact signed with the Kuki-Zo militant groups and this is a case that Imphal should seriously present before the Centre to have another hard, serious look at the pact which has been in force since 2008. Has Imphal ever put the question of why the SoO pact was inked in the first place with the Kuki militant groups back in 2005, before Manipur came on board in 2008 ? As some concerned people, people whose line of thinking are assets to Manipur, have put it, why was the SoO pact signed when the Kuki militants were never known to have trained their guns on the security force ? Their only claim to infamy was imposing taxes and letting their writ run on the National Highways, threatening transporters and drivers and collecting taxes. Why was such a pact signed with a bunch of highwaymen ? These are points which Imphal should study seriously and work out a model in such a way that these points can be put across in a manner acceptable in the corridors of power. At the same time, Imphal should also be aware of the ground reality and the larger objective which led to the signing of the SoO pact. When these points can be put forward convincingly before New Delhi, then perhaps the State Government may pat itself on the back for having put across the interests of Manipur convincingly. Let it be very clear. Border fencing and scrapping FMR can only be one part of the steps taken up to check illegal immigration into Manipur. It is only logical that this should be followed by more steps, such as enforcing the National Register of Citizens with 1951 as the base year. Identify all those who have entered the territory of Manipur on the sly, mark them out and make sure that they are not treated as legal citizens of the land. Border fencing and ending FMR can only mean putting in place mechanisms to check further incursion into the land, but it is equally important that those who entered on the sly earlier are identified and marked out. The very fact that a Kuki gentleman, a certain Paolienlal Haokip, had written back in 2002 in a think tank publication highlighting the plight of Burmese refugees in North East India, including Manipur. Burmese refugees in the North Eastern region of India deserve greater attention, and their plight, which is worse than any other refugee situation in India, needs to be addressed with more concern....some 15,000 Konyak Nagas, 20,000 Kukis and 17000-20000 Chin and Reang tribals were driven out into the bordering States of Nagaland, Manipur and Mizoram respectively. The writer here was referring to 1967 when the Burmese Government under Ne Win launched their Burmanisation programme (Operation Khadawmi). This was in 1967 and the writer also referred to the democratic uprising in Burma in 1988, which heightened the forcible evacuation. All illegal immigrants no doubt and add the incursion into Manipur after the military coup of 2021 and one can have a fair idea of the present situation and why the cry against illegal immigration has reached feverish pitch. This should also explain the emergence of several new settlements in the Reserved and Protected Forests of Manipur. This is why the Government of Manipur cannot rest easy with just the plan to fence the border and do away with FMR but also press for some measures to detect those who entered earlier and are today raising claims on the ancestral lands of the indigenous people of Manipur. During Thursday's oral arguments before the nation's highest court about Donald Trump's constitutional eligibility to remain on the ballot, the justices explicitly and indirectly channeled the member of Colorado's Supreme Court who wrote the most impassioned critique of the legal effort to disqualify Trump. Justice Carlos A. Samour Jr., in his dissenting opinion in December, used blistering language to cast doubt upon the use of Colorado's election laws to declare Trump constitutionally disqualified from office on the grounds that he engaged in insurrection as president. "I have been involved in the justice system for thirty-three years now, and what took place here doesnt resemble anything Ive seen in a courtroom," he wrote. "In my view, what transpired in this litigation fell woefully short of what due process demands." At the U.S. Supreme Court, Justice Brett M. Kavanaugh quoted Samour's words to the attorney arguing for Trump's disqualification, calling Samour's critique of Colorado's process "powerful." "I dont know whether I agree or not. I'm not gonna take a position on that," Kavanaugh said. "But the fact that someone's complaining not about the bottom-line conclusion, but about the very processes that were used ... seems to underscore concerns that have been raised about state power." Kavanaugh added: "That was powerful language." "That language, with respect to Justice Samour, was just not correct," replied attorney Jason Murray. Colorado justices grapple with unprecedented possibility of disqualifying Trump from ballot The case of Trump's eligibility for the ballot which rocketed to the U.S. Supreme Court a mere five months after its filing in Denver District Court involves four Republican and two unaffiliated voters who petitioned a judge to order Secretary of State Jena Griswold to keep Trump off Colorado's 2024 presidential primary ballot. Although the petitioners used state elections law as their vehicle, their fundamental complaint was that Trump's actions to halt the certification of President Joe Biden's victory and encourage a mob of his supporters to attack the U.S. Capitol amounted to disqualifying conduct. Specifically, Section 3 of the 14th Amendment, which was ratified in the wake of the Civil War, disqualifies senators, U.S. representatives and "an officer of the United States," among others, from holding future office if they took an oath to support the Constitution and subsequently "engaged in insurrection." The Colorado Supreme Court, by 4-3, agreed with that argument and declared Trump constitutionally ineligible late last year. Although Chief Justice Brian D. Boatright and Justice Maria E. Berkenkotter also wrote dissenting opinions raising concerns about the use of Colorado's election code to resolve weighty constitutional questions, Samour's opinion contained the most detailed analysis of multiple issues the U.S. Supreme Court would ultimately latch onto. Featured Local Savings "I am disturbed about the potential chaos wrought by an imprudent, unconstitutional, and standardless system in which each state gets to adjudicate Section Three disqualification cases on an ad hoc basis," Samour wrote. "Im just trying to grapple with what some people have seen as the consequences of the argument you're advancing, which is there will be conflicts in decisions among the states. Different states will disqualify different candidates," echoed Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr. Trump disqualified from 2024 ballot, Colorado Supreme Court rules "Significantly, there is a federal statute that specifically criminalizes insurrection and requires that anyone convicted of engaging in such conduct be fined or imprisoned and be disqualified from holding public office," argued Samour. "If the concern you have," Kavanaugh similarly told the petitioners' attorney, "is that insurrectionists should not be allowed to hold federal office, there is a tool to ensure that doesnt happen namely, prosecution of insurrectionists." Samour immigrated to the U.S. as a child from El Salvador, where his father was a lawyer and a judge. A 2018 Supreme Court appointee of former Gov. John Hickenlooper, Samour was previously a longtime trial judge and prosecutor in Arapahoe County. His opinions often contain aphorisms, puns and pop culture references (Samour quoted from "The Princess Bride" in his analysis of Trump's eligibility), and his dissents can be biting. The amicus briefs submitted to the U.S. Supreme Court frequently quoted Samour's dissent either favorably or critically. In addition to his concerns about the process in Trump's case, Samour offered a vigorous defense of the primary piece of precedent Trump's lawyers relied upon: an 1869 appellate decision nicknamed "Griffin's case," which endorsed the idea that Congress must act to enable the disqualification of insurrectionists through Section 3. "The Court should follow the rationale of Griffins Case and Justice Samours dissent," Trump's lawyers urged the Supreme Court in their brief. History, democracy and violence: Groups weigh in to SCOTUS ahead of Trump disqualification arguments Although Samour's most explicit critique of Trump's disqualification was reserved for the allegedly deficient process in the trial court Samour deemed it a "procedural Frankenstein" Trump did not contend there was a violation of his due process rights on appeal. Nonetheless, Kavanaugh connected Samour's procedural concerns with Trump's overarching argument: that Colorado could not remove him from the ballot on its own terms. "There was ample process here," responded Murray, representing the petitioners. "And this is how ballot access determinations in election cases are decided all the time." 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United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe The Reserve Bank of India officials will meet the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), among other stakeholders, next week to discuss the migration of customers and merchants from Paytm Payments Bank, recent reports said. The meetings will be held ahead of the release of the frequently asked questions (FAQs) by the RBI. The NPCI oversees the United Payments Interface (UPI) payments, and NHAI operates the FASTag service, it added. RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das had also said that the RBI has been receiving several queries and clarifications from customers as well as merchants. Advertisement In a post-Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) press conference, the RBI Governor had said the RBI will release an FAQ next week to clarify the doubts. The RBI has also said the ban was imposed due to persistent non-compliance by Paytm Payments Bank. It has been barred from adding new customers since March 11, 2022. Over the last few years we have significantly deepened our supervisory systems, approach and methods. Our emphasis is always on bilateral engagement with regulatory entities, with a focus on nudging them to take corrective action. Sufficient time is given for undertaking this corrective action When such constructive engagement does not work or when a regulated entity does not take effective action, we go for imposing supervisory or business restrictions, RBI governor had told reporters. Such restrictions that we impose are always proportional to the gravity of the situation, he said, adding, All our actions, being a responsible regulator, are for systemic stability and protection of customers interest. These aspects cannot be compromised. Last week, the RBI had ordered the payments bank unit of One 97 Communications, popularly known as Paytm, to stop accepting fresh deposits in its accounts or popular wallets after February 29. A woman charged in the negligent death of her toddler in 2022 was denied a lower bond on Thursday in El Paso County Court. Amber Comstock, 32, was arrested on suspicion of child abuse resulting in death on Jan. 5. Officers responding to a 911 call found Comstock's 14-month old son dead at his home on Nov. 16, 2022, according to her arrest affidavit. Comstock told investigators that she had put the toddler down for a nap around 11 a.m., and had checked on him occasionally. She said the toddler was dead when she checked on him around 5:15 p.m., but had failed to contact 911 until another member of the household could make it home. An autopsy, with the specific findings redacted from the public affidavit document, ruled the toddler's manner of death to be a homicide. More than a year later, Colorado Springs police arrested Comstock. She has remained in the county jail since then. Featured Local Savings Comstock's attorney argued in court Thursday that her current bond of $250,000 was too high. The attorney argued that her not fleeing the area, even after she knew police were investigating her role in the death of her toddler, combined with the lack of prior criminal charges outside of a traffic violation, should justify a lower bond. The defense referenced ongoing Department of Human Services hearings regarding Comstock's parental rights regarding her youngest child, born after the death of the toddler, as another reason she would not be a flight risk. The prosecutor in the case argued against a lowering of bond "due to the number of children" with whom was involved, regarding drug use and neglect. Specifically, prosecutors said that Comstock's past involving the loss of parental rights for multiple children, and a documented history of drug addiction issues made it unsafe for her to leave incarceration. Judge Monica Gomez ruled that Comstock's bail amount would remain unchanged. Comstock is scheduled back in court for a preliminary hearing on her charges on March 29. The more the summons, the more the schools, and the hospitals I will build, said Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in a reaction to the summons issued to him by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the ongoing probe into an alleged liquor scam case. Addressing a gathering at the foundation stone-laying ceremony of a government school in Mayur Vihar here on Friday, the chief minister informed that notices are being sent to him by various Central agencies on a regular basis. Alleging a conspiracy against him behind the notices for providing good education to the poor children, Kejriwal reiterated his governments commitment to turn the dream of Dr. B R Ambedkar into a reality. Advertisement The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) convenor said his party was bound by a pledge to ensure access to good and modern education for every child in the county. Pointing out that the area (Mayur Vihar) has big private schools; he assured that the proposed government school would prove a better option. He went on to say that if the government school did not turn out to be better than the private ones, he would quit politics. The school is expected to benefit more than 2,700 children of the Kondli- Gharoli area of East Delhi. It will have more than 50 classrooms, five state-of-the-art laboratories, three libraries, and toilet blocks on each floor of the building equipped with lifts. On Thursday, the Delhi CM was in the Dwarka area where he laid the foundation stone for a government school. He said the state government was working to revamp the government schools across the capital and re-develop them with modern amenities to provide better education to the children of the poor who cant afford the facilities. On February 4, the CM laid the foundation stones for four schools in Rohini, Paschim Vihar Dwarka, and Mayur Vihar Phase- III. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) on Friday took strict action against unauthorised construction by demolishing the Ziyarat Guest House in the Basti Nizamuddin area. The civic body said in a statement, A team of the MCD completely demolished the first and second floor of the guest house. The MCD carried out this action with DDA in compliance with High Court orders. The MCD also demolished unauthorised construction in the Kalindi Kunj area of the central zone. This month, 131 demolition actions, 35 sealing actions, 10 actions against illegal plotting /colonisation, getting the 18 acres of land freed. Advertisement More such stringent actions are already in the pipeline for execution of demolition actions in the coming days. These actions have been taken in areas such as Dera, Mandi, Bhati, Chhatarpur, Jonapur, Jaitpur, Mithapur, Burari, Narela, Bhalaswa, Kadipur, Alipur, Jeendpur, Bhorgarh, etc, the MCD said. In January of this year, the MCD undertook as many as 495 demolition actions, 137 sealing actions, and 69 actions against illegal plotting /colonisation to get 125 acres of land freed. Also, 66 offenders have been prosecuted. The MCD will continue to carry out demolition/sealing actions/actions against illegal plotting /colonisation in the coming weeks with higher intensity, the civic body added. Director-producer Aditya Dhar, who is known for his film Uri: the Surgical Strike, and his actress wife Yami Gautam Dhar are expecting their first child as they gear up for the release of their upcoming ghar ki film, Article 370. The couple confirmed that Yami Gautam is pregnant and theyre expecting their first child. Aditya, who has written and produced Article 370, shared that while the baby is on the way, theyre yet to know if it will be a Ganesha or a Laxmi. Advertisement Aditya told the media, There is a baby on its way. It was an amazing time because of the way the movie happened and the way we got to know it. It almost felt like Abhimanyu, the baby, knew exactly how 370 was made. We are yet to know whether it is Laxmi or Ganesha. Gautam, who is five months pregnant, was visibly touched by her husbands words, as she said, If I cry right now listening to him, everyone will say, its the pregnancy hormones, but genuinely this is so heartwarming. The actress arrived at the media interaction with her husband and her co-actor in the film, Priyamani. The former, incidentally, essayed the role of a RAW agent in Aditya Dhars directorial debut film Uri: The Surgical Strike. The film, with Vicky Kaushal in the lead role, presented a dramatised account of Indias surgical strike in response to Pakistans 2016 Uri attack. Yami and Aditya tied the nuptial knot on June 4, 2021, and have been going strong on both professional and personal fronts. They kept their romance under wraps until finally taking the wedding vows in an intimate ceremony in Himachal Pradesh. Produced by Jyoti Deshpande, Aditya Dhar and Lokesh Dhar, Article 370 is slated for release on February 23. Adarsh Gourav, recently seen in the film Kho Gaye Hum Kahan alongside Ananya Panday and Siddhant Chaturvedi, has landed in Thailand to kick off shooting for the highly anticipated TV series Aliens. He quickly bonded with the cast and indulged in the vibrant local cuisine. Expressing his excitement for the project, he stated, I am thrilled to be part of Aliens and embark on this exciting journey with such a talented cast and crew. The opportunity to work alongside renowned creators like Noah Hawley and Ridley Scott is truly humbling, and I look forward to bringing this gripping narrative to life. Im excited to shoot for the project after a brief schedule we had last year. Theres a great energy amongst the team and the cast, and we cant wait to channel all that energy into making the series as iconic as the franchise is, he added. Advertisement View this post on Instagram A post shared by Adarsh Gourav (@gouravadarsh) Adarsh Gourav will collaborate with an international cast and crew to breathe life into the captivating story of Aliens. The shooting will take place in Thailand for the next four months. Gourav received a positive response for his work in Kho Gaye Hum Kahan. Directed by debutant Arjun Varain Singh, Kho Gaye Hum Kahan is a coming-of-digital-age story about three friends in their mid-20s navigating life in the world of social media. Reflecting on his gratitude, Gourav previously mentioned, I am incredibly grateful to producers and filmmakers like Zoya Akhtar, who believe in actors like me who have carved their own paths. Zoya is a dynamic director with an impeccable eye for talent, and I feel privileged to be a part of her much-awaited project, Kho Gaye Hum Kahan. I find myself lucky to be working and collaborating with such great minds, and the fact that they recognize my work and have given me roles like the one in Kho Gaye is humbling. As for Aliens, helmed by renowned writer and director Noah Hawley and produced by visionary Ridley Scott, the series promises to captivate audiences with its enthralling storyline and stellar performances. Joining Adarsh Gourav in this project are actors Sydney Chandler, Alex Lawther, Samuel Blenkin, and Essie Davis. Scheduled to stream on FX on Hulu, Aliens is poised to redefine the sci-fi genre. (ANI) Actor Shahid Kapoor, who appeared on the celebrity dance reality show Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, praised young diva Adrija Sinha, saying she has immense talent, and is born for the dance floor. In the Love Special episode, the show saw a flurry of festivities for Valentines Week, wherein the contestants expressed their definition of love through captivating performances. Ace actor and comedian Javed Jaffery, who had introduced the country to break-dance, appeared on the episode as a special guest, while Shahid and Kriti Sanon made an appearance to promote their film Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya. Advertisement Topping the score chart week after week, Adrija, along with choreographer Akash Thapa, created magic once again with their performance on the song Laal Peeli Akhiyaan from Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya. The duo stunned one and all with their break-dance act as they performed wearing feet wheels, setting a new benchmark in the competition. Shahid said: All I can say is that today is the day when the fan dances better than the artiste; my eyes couldnt move away from Adrija throughout the act. Adrija, you owned it. Every beat, every step, every expression of yours, I could feel the dance bursting out from within you. You have immense talent and you were born for the dance floor. By watching you today, I have learned so much, thank you for that, he added. Kriti shared: This was incredible, what a performance! I absolutely loved every moment of it. The way you danced, your energy, and your facial expressions were amazing. Im truly a fan. In Laal Peeli Ankhiya, at one moment, you were playful with your tongue out, and the next, you were like a firecracker. I could never imagine an act like this on this song. I think this is one of the best acts that I have seen on a live stage, added Kriti. Javed expressed his desire to perform alongside the talented Adrija. Together, they set the stage on fire as they grooved to the beats of Tare Gin Gin. Javed also presented Adrija with the coveted BOO tag. Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa airs on Sony. The Election Commission on Friday said 96.88 crore people are eligible to vote in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The poll panel also said there is a six per cent increase in registered voters in India as compared to 2019. The largest electorate in the world 96.88 crore are registered to vote for the forthcoming general elections in India, the EC said in a communique. Advertisement The poll panel said after months long intensive Special Summary Revision 2024 (SSR 2024) exercise and ahead of the general elections, it has published the electoral rolls in all States and Union Territories across the country with reference to 1st January as the qualifying date. This also included successful completion of revision of electoral rolls in Jammu & Kashmir and Assam, following the delimitation of constituencies. The endeavour, undertaken with meticulous planning, coordination and participation of political parties has yielded noteworthy achievements in terms of inclusivity, health and purity of the electoral rolls, it said. The EC further said, The electoral roll gender ratio has surged positively, indicating the growing role of women in shaping the democratic fabric of the nation. Over 2.63 crore new electors have been included in the electoral roll, out of which around 1.41 crore are female electors which surpassed the newly enrolled male voters ( 1.22 crore) by over 15 per cent. More than two crore young electors, between the 18-19 and 20-29 age groups, have been added to the electoral roll, it informed. The gender ratio has increased from from 940 in 2023 to 948 in 2024, as per the statement. Mentioning about scrutiny, the EC said, After thorough house-to-house verification, names of 1,65,76,654 deceased, permanently shifted, and duplicate electors have been deleted from the electoral rolls. This comprehensive cleanup ensures the integrity and purity of the electoral process. It includes 67,82,642 dead voters, 75,11,128 permanently shifted/absent voters and 22,05,685 duplicate voters. As the nation gears up for the elections, this inclusive and diverse electoral roll stands as a testament to the strength of democracy and the unwavering spirit of civic participation among its citizens, it added. Union Home Minister Amit Shah will deliver an address at India Global Forums Annual Investment Summit here next month, a release said on Thursday. As per the release, the Union Home Minister will address the summit on March 6 at the Jio Convention Centre, Mumbai. Under the theme, NXT10, India Global Forum (IGF) will be examining the next decade of Indias growth, as the country continues its march towards becoming the third largest economy in the world. NXT10 will convene leading figures from the world of business, politics, art and culture from March 5-6 to discuss what the next ten years beckons for Indias economy and geopolitical standing, it said. In a highly anticipated session titled What Analysts Get Wrong About India, Union Minister Amit Shah will tackle head-on his views on narratives that often dominate western headlines about Indias growth, politics and society, the release added. Manoj Ladwa, Founder and Chairman, IGF, said, Home Minister Amit Shahs first-ever intervention of this nature at India Global Forum will be keenly awaited not only in India, but globally. He will set out, I am sure in his own candid style, his assessment of the India today, and his vision for the coming decade. Advertisement India has experienced remarkable progress in the last 10 years. India is now leading the world in technology, innovation and science. The world has seen the rise of a nation confident in itself, and its place in the world. India is expected to become the third-largest economy in the world with a GDP of USD five trillion in the next three years and touch USD 7 trillion by 2030. NXT10 heralds a pivotal decade for India as a global powerhouse said Manoj Ladwa. Other prominent personalities joining the NXT10 Summit lineup include Maharashtras Deputy Chief Minister and Industries Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, who will provide an in-depth analysis of Maharashtras economic landscape. Fadnavis will shed light on the states ambitious plan to catapult itself into a USD 1 trillion economy, leveraging its coastal advantages and strategic initiatives, the release said. The summit will also host Rick Reider, Managing Director and BlackRocks Global Chief Investment Officer of Fixed Income, who will offer insights into the global investment landscape, providing attendees with valuable perspectives on navigating the complexities of international markets. One of the highlights of NXT10 will be a captivating conversation between bestselling authors Jeffrey Archer and Amish Tripathi, who will delve into the art of modern storytelling and narrative setting. Kerala Opposition leader V D Satheesan on Thursday said the central government was not entirely responsible for the financial troubles of Kerala. Explaining the reason why the Congress led-UDF in Kerala is not supporting the protest being conducted by the ruling LDF government in Delhi on Thursday, Satheesan said the Centre government is not solely responsible for Keralas financial troubles. Financial mismanagement and administrative failures of the ruling LDF government also contributed to the states financial woes , he said. Satheesan said that the UDF did not join the LDF protest in Delhi as they created a narrative blaming the Central government for all the financial problems of the state to hide their mismanagement, extravagance and corruption. Advertisement Central neglect is just one of many things. This is a government that does not even pay pensions. The Opposition had given constructive suggestions to the government. The state government has pushed Kerala into crisis, Satheesan told media persons in Thiruvananthapuram. Satheesan said that the state governments claim that Rs 57,800 crores are to be received from the Centre is an absolute lie. He alleged that the LDF government lacks consistency regarding the financial woes of Kerala. The Oppositionleader said that what the LDF government said in the Supreme Court was different from what it said in Delhi and what was said in the state Assembly regarding the financial woes of Kerala. He slammed the LDF government for moving the Supreme Court saying that there should be no limit on borrowing by the state. If there is no limit, where will it stop? Where will they take the state? They have pushed Kerala into a dangerous financial situation, Satheesan alleged. The LDF government in Kerala staged a protest in New Delhi on Thursday against the BJP-led Centre governments alleged discrimination and neglect in the allocation of funds to Kerala . The protest was led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Satheesan expressed doubt whether the SFIO probe into the dealings of the company owned by the CMs daughter Veena Vijayan would reach its logical conclusion, or whether it will be settled like the cases such as the gold smuggling, dollar smuggling and Life mission scam. He alleged that Union Minister V Muraleedharan was negotiating with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan at night. V Muraleedharan is the mediator between Pinarayi Vijayan and the Centre. He also settled Surendrans Kodakara money heist case, Satheesan alleged. President Droupadi Murmu on Friday expressed confidence that farmers will play a pivotal role in Indias journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047. We will have to move forward with greater urgency in ensuring that farmers get the right price for their produce and move from a life of poverty to prosperity, she said addressing the 62nd convocation of the ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute in New Delhi. The President said the nation is aware of the problems related to farmers and agriculture. Many of our farmer brothers and sisters are still living in poverty, she lamented. Advertisement The President said that a large population in India earns livelihood from agriculture. Agriculture also contributes significantly to Indias GDP. Therefore, it is extremely important to ensure that this base of the countrys economy grows as much as possible and that there is no hindrance in it. She was happy to note that the government is working to increase the income of farmers, promote new agricultural methods and provide a smooth irrigation system. The government has significantly increased the MSP for all crops to provide income security to the farmers. The President said the IARI has made an unparalleled contribution in achieving food security by India. This institute has not only efficiently carried out research and development work related to agriculture but has also ensured that such research reaches on the ground. She was happy to note that this institute has developed more than 200 new technologies. Between 2005 and 2020, IARI has developed more than 100 varieties and has more than 100 patents in its name. Haldwani remained tensed on Friday following clashes between the police and an unruly mob as the administration alleged that violence was pre-planned by the rioters. According to the Nainital district administration, rioters used a five-day notification period to plan violence and terrorise people. Nainital District Magistrate Vandana Singh said on Friday that the mob went on the rampage leading to lawlessness in the town without any provocation by the police deployed at the Malik-ka-Bagicha area where illegally built structures were constructed. Advertisement The more time they were given in the notification for the removal of the illegal structures voluntarily, the more they prepared for the violence. It was a planned move by the mob. They prepared for the voilence and arsoning from February 3 to February 8 said Vandana Singh while sharing details of the Thursday evening incident. Singh said the preparation of the mob for the violence was evident from the stones amassed and used to pelt at the security forces. First, they pelted massive stones at the security forces before the situation could be brought under control. Then they threw petrol bombs which were also tackled by the police. Here, after they gheraoed the Banbhulpura police station and attacked the cops inside with a plan to suffocate and kill them. Mob was not protesting for the desecrated illegal structures but trying to challenge the state machinery and the symbols of statehood. They posed as if they were above the law, Singh said, adding none of the accused would be spared by the law enforcement agencies. Meanwhile, the curfew clamped on Thursday night by the district administration curfew continued in Haldwani for more than 24 hours. More than 1,100 security personnel, including state police, Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and paramilitary forces were deployed to maintain law and order in the leadership of the district administration in Haldwani nearly 50 kilometers from Nainital. On Thursday, a huge mob from the Banbhulpura police station area attacked a Haldwani municipal corporations anti-encroachment squad and its escort of security personnel as the latter demolished two illegally built structures on government land at Malik Ka Bagicha area. The mob torched vehicles, attacked people, and vandalised public properties. According to the district administration, four persons died and three were critically injured in the clashes between the police and the mob. Nearly 300 security personnel were also injured. According to the police, four persons were arrested for inciting violence while the arrest of a dozen more was in the offing as security forces had identified more accused who provoked the mob. Parents of an Academy School District 20 student have filed a federal lawsuit against the district, alleging they failed to respond to a student who sexually assaulted their daughter while both were attending Woodmen-Roberts Elementary. In the lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court, the parents claim that a school employee failed to stop or prevent the assault and that school administration failed to properly notify them and law enforcement afterwards. According to court documents, on Jan. 25, 2022, a male student who had a reputation for sexually harassing other female students had allegedly groped the plaintiffs' daughter's breasts in front of their class. The lawsuit claims the only adult present at this time was a lunch monitor who was looking at their phone and took no action at the time of the alleged assault. Immediately afterward, the male student openly bragged to other classmates about getting the full package while the female student reported the incident to their teacher, who then brought her to school administration. The student relayed what she had told her teacher to Woodmen-Roberts Elementarys principal, vice principal and other administrators. Her parents were then notified of the incident hours later via a message stating there was an incident at the school. "No urgency. No request to meet with them. No details. It wasnt until they collected the minor child from school and she got home and told them that knew anything about 'the incident,'" the parents' attorney Melissa Rueschhoff told the Gazette. The documents note that the Colorado Springs Police Department was only informed by school officials after insistence by the parents. Featured Local Savings Police then investigated the incident later that day, and the male student and other classmates corroborated what was reported by the female student. The incident was also captured on video in the school. The male student was later charged with two criminal counts by police that included unlawful sexual conduct. The plaintiffs daughter stayed out of school for two weeks, since no action was taken by the school to separate the students following the incident. Rueschhoff later negotiated with general counsel for D-20 to implement parameters and keep them separate, but the female student ultimately decided to change school districts. "This child was outgoing, preppy, a state ranked swimmer, etc. This incident was so traumatic for her that she became introverted, almost recluse, began dressing in oversized, baggy clothing, and refused to swim," Rueschhoff wrote in an email. "Fortunately, she has left the school and the district altogether, and continued to receive counseling and support services." The parents are seeking damages for financial loss, physical harm, humiliation, mental anguish and emotional distress for Academy D-20's violation of Title IX. They claim that violations come from allowing the assault to occur, despite the students' known tendencies, failing to conduct their own investigation following the student's report and failing to conduct any follow-up actions to ensure student safety. No Academy D-20 administrators nor Woodmen-Roberts Elementary faculty have commented on the incident nor the lawsuit, but a public statement was released by the district in response to inquiries on the case. The district takes reports of this nature extremely seriously. Consistent with district policy and procedures, the district takes appropriate actions to investigate and address any report, terminate unwelcome behavior, ensure it does not recur, and prevent retaliation at any school promptly and impartially, the statement read. We are committed to maintaining the integrity of the legal process and respectfully decline to provide further comment. Thank you for your understanding. A trial date has not been set for the suit. The 65th meeting of the Network Planning Group (NPG) was held to evaluate five road, rail and urban transit projects from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), Ministry of Railways (MoR), and Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) from the perspective of integrated planning based on the PM GatiShakti principles. At the meeting, the MoRTH discussed the highway projects in Goa, Meghalaya, and Assam. These projects pertain to the four-laning of 45 km stretch of NH-66 in the state of Goa and development-cum-upgradation of MawlyngkhungPanchgram road from 2-lane to 4-lane in the state of Meghalaya and Assam, including the greenfield stretch of 118 km and brownfield stretch of 43 km. Advertisement Both projects will have wider economic impacts, including a reduction in logistics costs, reduction in traffic congestion, and increase in average speed of traffic. The Ministry of Railways discussed the construction of a Rail-Over-Rail (ROR) bulb line in Bihar. A railways project for the construction of a bulb line at Nabinagar (Ankorha) of approximately 17.49 km in the Aurangabad district of Bihar was examined. The construction of the ROR bulb line would result in grade separation of two railway lines leading to reduced detention of trains, decline in transit time, increase in logistics efficiency of coal movement to Nabinagar power plant in the vicinity, and enhanced section capacity utilisation of main lines. The MoHUA discussed the urban metro transit projects in Bangalore and Delhi/NCR at the meeting. The meeting also discussed the two urban transit metro corridor projects of MoHUA, including the Rithala-Bawana-NarelaKundli (Haryana) Metro Corridor of DMRC in the NCR region and Phase-3 of the Bangalore Metro Rail Project of 44.65 km with 2 corridors from JP Nagar to Kempapura along ORR and Hosahalli to Kadabagere along the Magadi road. Both projects will result in multi-modal integration of metro with bus and rail stations, decongestion of roads, travel time savings, fuel cost savings, reliable operation and performance, and reduction in vehicular emission and pollution. The NPG suggested the project proponents plan for adequate transition infrastructure where the inter-modal interface is involved. The project details were examined based on the planning/mapping of PM GatiShakti National Master Plan (NMP). Additional Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Rajeev Singh Thakur chaired the meeting, and it was emphasised that these projects will play a pivotal role in nation-building. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Madhya Pradesh on Sunday to dedicate to the nation multiple development projects worth about 7500 crores at Jhabua. The vision of Antyodaya has been a guiding light for the initiatives taken by the PM. One of the key focus areas has been ensuring that benefits of development reach out to the tribal community, major sections of which were not able to gain these benefits even several decades after independence. In line with this, he will lay the foundation stone of multiple initiatives that will benefit the significant tribal population of the region. Advertisement The PM will disburse monthly instalments of Aahar Anudan under Aahar Anudan Yojna to about two lakh women beneficiaries. Under this scheme, Rs 1500 per month is provided for nutritious food to women of various specially backward tribes of Madhya Pradesh. The PM will distribute 1.75 lakh adhikar abhilekh (record of rights) to beneficiaries of SVAMITVA Scheme. This will provide documentary evidence to people for the right to their land. He will lay the foundation stone of Tantya Mama Bhil University a dedicated University which will cater to the youth from districts with high tribal concentration in the region. To be developed at a cost of Rs 170 crore, the University will provide world class infrastructure for holistic development of students. The PM will also transfer Rs 55.9 crore for 559 villages under Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana. This amount will be utilised for various kinds of construction activities including Anganwadi Bhawans, Fair Price Shops, Health Centres, additional rooms in schools, internal roads, among others. He will lay the foundation stone of CM Rise School in Jhabua. The school will integrate technology to provide modern facilities like smart classes and e Library among others to students. He will also dedicate to the nation and lay the foundation stone of multiple projects that will strengthen the water supply and provisioning of drinking water in Madhya Pradesh. The Uttar Pradesh government on Friday said 136 local guides have been equipped to educate tourists about Ayodhyas historical and cultural significance as well as its contemporary changes, in response to a huge influx of visitors to the Ram temple. According to officials, lakhs of devotees have thronged the temple since the consecration programme on January 22. Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh distributed licenses and identity cards to 22 tourist guides in Lucknow on Friday, empowering them to enlighten visitors about various aspects of Ayodhya, including its rich history and culture. Advertisement Local guides are also being trained to communicate in languages such as Gujarati, Nepali, Telugu, and Bengali, especially to those who come to the temple city from southern and western parts of the country. At Manyavar Kanshiram Institute of Tourism Management, Lucknow, training in Bengali, Gujarati, Nepali and Telugu has been given in about 40 days. This includes 47 Gujarati, 39 Telugu, 27 Bengali, and 23 Nepali language guides. Almost all the students have knowledge of Hindi and English language. Apart from this, some students will also be able to communicate in Marathi, Punjabi, Sindhi, Tamil, Kannada, French, and Russian and Korean languages, an official said. After completing the rigorous 40-day training, 136 students who passed will receive licenses as local-level tourist guides, valid for 10 years with the option for renewal. Currently, 13 tourist guides are already serving in Ayodhya on behalf of the institute. A significant number of the licensed students, more than 100, hail from Ayodhya and its surrounding districts, possessing intimate knowledge of the citys religious, spiritual, geographical, social, economic, and historical aspects. Their training included insights into Ayodhyas evolving landscape and future requirements, complemented by field visits and guidance from experienced tourist guides working in Ayodhya. In its ongoing efforts to eliminate filariasis, the Uttar Pradesh government is set to launch a comprehensive campaign across 17 districts of the state, commencing on February 10. This campaign will continue till February 28. Under this, 72,000 health workers will administer filariasis medicine to more than 3.5 crore people of the state. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath himself has appealed to the people of the state to join this campaign. He urged all individuals to consider themselves as potentially affected by filariasis and to proactively take the medication to safeguard themselves and future generations. He emphasized that symptoms of filariasis, a serious disease caused by Culex mosquito bites, appear within 5 to 15 years. Therefore, it is advisable for everyone to take the medicine without waiting for symptoms to ensure community well-being. Advertisement With the objective to make Uttar Pradesh free from filariasis, the Yogi government will conduct MDA round in Amethi, Azamgarh, Ballia, Banda, Barabanki, Bareilly, Hamirpur, Jaunpur, Jalaun, Lucknow, Pilibhit, Shahjahanpur, Prayagraj, Pratapgarh, Sonbhadra, Unnao and Varanasi from February 10 to 28. In Amethi, Azamgarh, Banda, Barabanki, Bareilly, Lucknow, Pratapgarh, Prayagraj, Unnao, and Varanasi, a triple-drug combination (Ivermectin, DEC, and Albendazole) will be administered. In Ballia, Hamirpur, Jalaun, Jaunpur, Pilibhit, Shahjahanpur, and Sonbhadra, a double-drug combination (DEC and Albendazole) will be given. Dr Ramesh Singh Thakur explained that filariasis not only affects the individual but weakens the entire family. If a breadwinner of the family is affected, and there is no additional source of income, the family gradually becomes weak. If not paid attention to, the disease progresses through stages and can ultimately lead to complete disability. In such a condition, the person becomes susceptible to various other illnesses. Therefore, it is important to take medicine in such situations, he said. The Chief Minister emphasized that while prevention is possible for this disease, once contracted, it becomes incurable. This can only be managed, and the government is committed to it. The Yogi government is leveraging social media extensively to ensure the success of the campaign. Dr Ramesh Singh Thakur, the state program officer for filariasis, said here on Friday that WhatsApp groups have been formed at the block and gram panchayat levels under the guidance of the Yogi government. Additionally, the department is promoting the campaign on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Street plays and folk songs are also being performed for this purpose. To make the campaign successful, 36,000 teams have been formed, comprising 72,000 health workers. Seven thousand supervisors will oversee the campaign, with a target of administering medicine to 3,60,25,891 people. The medication will be administered to everyone except children under two years old, pregnant women, and those with serious illnesses. Additionally, the health teams will go door-to-door to provide medicine to all residents, and if no one is found at home, a second visit will be made. People can also visit their nearest health centers to take the medicine. Notably, the medicine will be available at Health and Wellness Centers, District Hospitals, Community and Primary Health Centers. The medicine will be administered to school going children in their educational institutions. Booths will also be set up in medical colleges and media institutions located in Lucknow. Symptoms: Hydrocele in five to fifteen years, swelling in hands, legs, and breasts. Remedies: Take medicine during Mass Drug Administration (MDA) rounds, stay away from dirt and mosquitoes, and wear full-sleeved clothing, use mosquito nets even during the day to protect yourself from mosquitoes. In an unprecedented revelation, King Charles III has shattered the age-old tradition of royal health secrecy, thrusting the British monarchy into uncharted territory. The announcement of his cancer diagnosis, a break from centuries of never complain, never explain, exposes a chink in the armor of regal mystique. For generations, the British public has been shielded from the intimate details of monarchs health, creating an aura of invincibility around the throne. Queen Elizabeth IIs death in 2022 exemplified this, as the world was left in the dark about the cause, with the death certificate simply citing old age. Likewise, King George VIs battle with lung cancer was concealed from the public eye, raising questions about the extent of information shared even within the royal family. King Charles IIIs decision to divulge his cancer diagnosis, albeit sparingly, reflects the evolving nature of public engagement in a media-saturated age. The monarch, in his mid-70s, opted for a delicate balance, sharing enough to acknowledge his health challenge while maintaining an air of mystery. This departure from the stoic tradition of his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, is a nod to the changing dynamics of a society that craves transparency. Sally Bedell Smith, a noted author, aptly points out the paradox in King Charles approach. Initially candid about his treatment for an enlarged prostate, the monarch reverted to the veiled secrecy characteristic of his lineage. Ruling in an era where information travels at the speed of light, there is an expectation that he should reveal more, especially considering the publics investment in the monarchy through taxpayer support. The disclosure serves dual purposes, as highlighted in the statement from Buckingham Palace. On one hand, it aims to foster public understanding of cancer, shedding light on a topic that affects millions globally. The ripple effect is evident, with Cancer Research UK reporting a significant surge in visits to its information page. On the other hand, the move is a strategic response to the age of social media, where misinformation can spread like wildfire. By preemptively sharing his diagnosis, King Charles III seeks to curb speculation and control the narrative surrounding his health. The debate on how much the public deserves to know about royal health is nuanced. Royals, despite being private citizens, exist in a unique position of public trust. As public sentiments toward the monarchy fluctuate, with a recent study indicating a decline in perceived importance, the disclosure becomes a pivotal moment for the institutions relevance. As the King steps back from public-facing duties during his treatment, the focus inevitably shifts to the future of the monarchy. His son, Prince William, poised to inherit the throne, faces the dual challenge of preparing for leadership while attending to his wifes recovery from abdominal surgery. The Kings vulnerability, shared with a nation where millions grapple with cancer, humanises the monarchy in a way that could mark a new era of transparency. Advertisement Cervical cancer is again in the national news, this time as a result of fake news doing the rounds on social media platforms, asserting the untimely death of Indian actress Poonam Pandey due to cervical cancer. Earlier this week, during the interim budget speech of 2024-2025, the finance minister had batted for cervical cancer vaccination for girls aged between 9 to 14 years. While there is welcome spotlight and analysis on the causes of this pernicious disease, at the same time it is also imperative to understand the nuances of the wider public debate taking place concerning the road ahead for India in eradicating this persistent public health menace. Globally, cervical cancer is the fourth most widely reported cancer, accounting for 10 per cent of all female cancers. As per statistics from GLOBOCAN 2022, cancer of the cervix uteri has a mortality rank of 9 and causes 3,48,186 deaths worldwide. Recent studies have indicated that low and middle-income countries (LMICs) have higher incidence and mortality rates of cervical cancer, with 90 per cent deaths of the aforementioned deaths worldwide occurring in LMICs. Closer home, as per the HPV Information Centres latest HPV and Related Cancers Report 2023: India, cervical cancer ranks as the second most common cancer among Indian women between ages 15 to 44, with about 5 per cent (i.e., 2,56,114) of Indian women harbouring human papillomavirus (HPV) at any given time. As per the WHO, cervical cancer is also, but not exclusively, caused by persistent infection with the HPV leading to cervical precancerous lesions, which if left untreated, cause 95 per cent of cervical cancers. Some of the contributing risk factors of cervical cancer are poor genital hygiene, multiple sexual partners resulting in increased exposure to HPV, etc.. Advertisement Symptoms can range from excessive white discharge, bleeding between the periods, bleeding during sexual intercourse, postmenopausal bleeding, chronic pain in the abdomen, low backache, etc., depending on the stage of the cancer. Notably, cervical cancer can be prevented economically and effectively through the use of prophylactic HPV vaccination, timely screening, and speedy healthseeking behaviour for treatment of the virus. Nevertheless, obstacles to the fight against cervical cancer remain. Cost-related concerns make the HPV vaccine unaffordable for many if not most Indians. Even popular brands of the vaccine developed indigenously by home-grown big pharma can cost as much as Rs 2,000-4,000 per dose, when purchased privately. Moreover, currently there is no single comprehensive cervical cancer programme or policy in place at the national level requiring big pharma to supply HPV vaccines at favourable and discounted rates. However, recently in January 2023 interestingly also the month observed as world cervical cancer awareness month the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare wrote to seven state governments, from Tamil Nadu to Himachal Pradesh, requesting them to prepare for the roll-out of the HPV vaccine for girls aged 9 to 14 years in their respective states. This effort is widely understood to be the commencement of a phased introduction of HPV vaccination into routine mass immunisation programmes in the country. This idea is not new. In 2022, the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI) had endorsed introduction of indigenously developed HPV vaccine in the universal immunization programme as a two-dose regimen. In this matter, the experience of the United Kingdom, which adopted the HPV vaccination into its national health programmes more than a decade ago and has since commendably achieved an 86 per cent reduction in HPV infections, is instructive. Lessons can also be drawn from the successful HPV vaccination rollouts in the state of Sikkim. Sikkim had initially introduced the vaccine in 2014 but the initiative faltered at the time due to social hesitancy. Leveraging the lessons learnt from 2014, the vaccine was re-introduced in 2018, backed by detailed pre-rollout preparations, aggressive media sensitization, and a strong political will, resulting in a 97 per cent coverage. The hope now is that finance ministers clarion call on the need for HPV mass immunization will provide a fillip for capacity building and mass production by domestic drug manufacturers, thus making the vaccine available as cheaply as INR 200-400 per dose, and bring it closer to the common persons reach. This bold step holds immense promise of success. A related point to note is that as per the latest NFHS-5 (2019-21) data, only 1.9 per cent of Indian women (2.2 per cent urban and 1.7 per cent rural) between the ages of 30 to 49 have undergone cervical cancer screening in their lifetime. In areas of high-incidence such as Africa and Asia, cancer screening programmes have demonstrated ability to effectively help identify early-stage malignancies. It goes without saying that the utilization of cervical cancer screening as a method of early detection by health professionals and the general Indian populations alike remains woefully low despite the national programme for prevention and control of cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and stroke (NPCDCS) recommending national cervical cancer screening to be conducted at every five years interval for those falling in the age bracket of 30 to 65 years. However, in India, whether such screenings are actually conducted at the ground level is anyones guess. Stepping up and experimenting with more proactive and robust screening strategies at the primary and secondary-levels of health care in PHCs, CHCs, and HWCs is a vital public health need of the times. Therefore, it stands to reason that regular and robust cervical cancer screening at the grassroots-level accompanied by universal vaccination under the national immunization program, especially in rural India, is a surefire way to realise the dream of a cervical cancer free India. Only then will India have a fighting chance to expedite and realize the targets set by the WHO for elimination of cervical cancer by 2030. (The writers are, respectively, with the KSRDPRU, Gadag (School of Public Health, and Sanitation Management, Karnataka) specializing in NCD screening of common cancers, and with the National Law School of India University, Bengaluru. The views are personal.) Saint-Laurent, CA (H4T1V6) Today Moderating temperatures will change morning scattered snow showers to rain showers by late day. High 41F. Winds WSW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 50%.. Tonight Cloudy with a mixture of rain and snow this evening. Low 26F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of precip 50%. Cam Edwards is a board member of the Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms and the editor of BearingArms.com . He wrote this for InsideSources.com . Two elementary school children killed in Colorado Springs during late December suffered gunshot wounds and cuts to the neck, autopsies show. Kimberlee Singler is believed by police to have murdered both children on Dec. 18. A GoFundMe to assist the family, including the older surviving sibling is available here. She is awaiting extradition in London, a process that could take months, experts previously told The Gazette. Singler was embroiled in a contentious divorce and custody battled prior to fleeing the country after the deaths of her children. El Paso County Coroner's Office autopsies released Friday show Singler's daughter Elianna Ellie Wentz, 9, suffered a gunshot wound to the head and cuts to her neck that caused her death. Featured Local Savings Her brother, Aden Wentz, 7, was killed by a gunshot to his head, an autopsy states. He suffered neck wounds as well. The autopsies also found high levels of doxylamine, which can be used as a sleep aid and anti-nausea medication, the report states. The same day her two younger children died, Singler is also believed to have injured herself and her 11-year-old at her home near Stetson Hills and Tutt boulevards. She reported the attack to the Colorado Springs police as a burglary at 12:39 a.m. on Dec. 19. On Dec. 26, police obtained an arrest warrant for Singler and starting searching for her. She was arrested four days later in London. If Singler's extradition is approved she will face 10 charges, including two charges of first-degree murder and another of attempted murder. Introduction Are you having trouble understanding why your sex drive has recently decreased? The overall sexual health of a man depends on both his mental and physical well-being. People encounter pressures that lower their vitality and mental health when they put extra demand on themselves. It also doesn't help to know that getting older just makes everything more severe, preferably in terms of closeness. Our editorial team recently found a men's health supplement that aims to ignite the fire that men often experience between adolescence and adulthood. Here is an in-depth review of the unique Phenoman Male Enhancement Gummies. Phenoman Male Enhancement Gummies UK Official Website VISIT HERE What are Phenoman Male Enhancement Gummies? Phenoman Male Enhancement Gummies is a supplement designed to support men's health, as the name suggests. 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Final thoughts Phenoman Male Enhancement Gummies are exactly what their name suggests according to the review above, the gummies are filled with CBD and herbs that aim to increase men's sexual performance. Starting with CBD, each gummy contains about 16 mg on average, which is a respectable concentration. Unfortunately, there is no more transparency. The creator of this supplement remains unknown at the time of writing, and details regarding the origin of the hemp used (as well as where it was grown) have been kept completely confidential. Additionally, we did not receive any information about laboratory testing, including where the certificate of analysis was located if testing was performed. From a scientific perspective, there is not much evidence that CBD can immediately affect sexual function. From the information presented, it appears that the relationship between CBD and sexual performance is also hypothetical. We are not trying to downplay the beneficial effects of CBD on mental health symptoms. However, it is too early to say that CBD's stress- and anxiety-reducing properties can also increase sexual desire without further research. However, the herbs chosen to support men's health are appropriate as they have been shown to promote healthy blood flow and libido. A poster released by the Karnataka state unit of the DYFI, the youth organisation affiliated with the CPI-M, has kicked up social media discussions in the neighbouring state of Kerala. The poster announcing the date and venue of the 12th state conference of the Left organisation contained photos of several revolutionaries and socio-political figures. Karl Marx, Che Guevara, Dr BR Ambedkar, Bhagat Singh and Tipu Sultan were among the handful of personalities featured on the poster. Among them, on the bottom, were the images of two men donning crowns and armed with bows and arrows. Several Facebook users in Kerala, currently run by a CPM-led LDF government, pointed out that Lord Ram and Lakshman were featured in the poster of the communist organisation. The bow and arrow donning Hindu Gods have been adopted by the DYFI as its new icons, some users criticised. The poster design was an impact of Ayodhya temple consecration, yet others commented. DYFI was ridiculed over the poster | Facebook screengrab However, the allegation was vehemently denied by several Left handles in the comment boxes on multiple discussions. Many of them claimed that the photo belonged to "Tulu twins who were social reformers." Who are the figures to feature on the poster? Did the organisation accidentally, or otherwise, use the image of the Hindu deities in its design? We checked. Identifying the image We began by confirming that the poster in question was legit and not morphed. The poster was found on the official Facebook page of DYFI Karnataka. It was uploaded on January 29. The image of the two men was indeed part of the design, it confirmed. When the said portion of the poster was cropped and reverse searched on Google, the results showed a handful of YouTube videos in Kannada. The thumbnail of the videos had the same image. The English title of the videos read, 'Koti-Chennaya Pardhana Samputa.' A Google reverse search proved that the image was earlier used to represent Koti and Chennaya Who was Koti and Chennaya? To find out more we ran a keyword search for "Koti-Chennaya" on Google. The results indeed confirmed that the photo represented Tulunadu-based twin brothers from medieval times. Koti and Chennaya are believed to have lived in Tulunadu between 1500 to 1600 AD Tulunadu was composed of areas in and around Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Kasaragod districts of Karnataka and Kerala They were born in Padumale in Puttur taluk of Dakshina Kannada and died in combat fighting King Perumal Ballal, the Times Of India said in a 2016 report. The news article elaborated on the Karnataka government's decision to renovate "the birthplace of Koti-Chennaya, legendary twin heroes characterized in the Tulu epic of the same name". A 2021 Mumbai Mirror report further elaborated on the story of the twin brothers. A 2021 Mumbai Mirror report further elaborated on the story of the twin brothers. "There is also the Tulu story of Koti Chennaya of the Billava community narrated in Karnataka. The two brothers are much admired even today, whose skill in farming makes the kings minister jealous and he floods their fields before harvest. In the fight that follows, the minister is killed and the brothers are forced to migrate elsewhere. Another king gives them land, but they kill a wild boar that a neighbouring king declares to be under his protection. War follows in which Koti is treacherously killed by an arrow shot from behind and a heartbroken Chennaya smashes his head against a rock and kills himself. The two brothers become guardian spirits who fight against injustice." Thus, it was evident that the communist organisation didn't use the Hindu Gods Ram and Lakshman in their poster. It was the illustration available on the internet as that of the Koti-Chennaya twins that found a place on the design. The 12th DYFI Karnataka State Conference will be held in Mangaluru on February 25, 26 and 27. FACT CHECK Claim: DYFI used Ram and Lakshman in a poster ahead of its state conference in Karnataka Verdict: Not True Fact: The caricature shows the Koti-Chennaya twins from a Tulunadu epic. They are unrelated to Ramayana. Four people died and over 100, primarily police personnel, were injured in Uttarakhand's Haldwani after violence broke out on Thursday over the demolition of an "illegally-built" madrasa and an adjoining mosque. According to officials, residents set vehicles and a police station on fire and hurled stones. Besides police personnel, municipal workers involved in the demolition work were also injured. A curfew was imposed at Haldwani, a major city in Nainital district. A shoot-at-sight order has been issued against rioters in the city. Schools have also been shut. Senior Superintendent of Police Prahlad Meena said the madrasa and the mosque stood on illegally encroached government land. A court order was issued to demolish the structure, following which municipal workers arrived at the location. A heavy presence of police and Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) personnel was also present. However, angry residents, including women, in large numbers descended on the streets to protest the action as the demolition of the two structures began. They were seen breaking barricades and arguing with the police personnel engaged in the demolition exercise. As a bulldozer razed the madrasa and the mosque, mobs hurled stones at the police personnel, municipal corporation workers and journalists, PTI quoted officials. Though the police tried to disperse the irate mob by resorting to a mild lathi charge and bursting of teargas shells, tension escalated. The mob set fire to several vehicles, including a police patrol car. By late evening, the mob had set ablaze the the Banbhoolpura Police Station. A curfew was imposed following this. Heavy machinery being used to demolish an "illegally built" madrasa at Banbhoolpura area in Haldwani | PTI Nainital district magistrate Vandana told Hindustan Times that shots were fired outside the Banbhoolpura police station. "In response, the police fired in the air. Three to four people were brought dead at hospitals who had sustained bullet injuries. The identification of the deceased is being done. We will have to wait to ascertain whether they have died in the police firing or firing by people among them," the DM said. She added that the policemen prevented the rioters from entering the police station. "The violence then spread to Gandhi Nagar area near Banbhoolpura," she said, adding that the violence was pre-planned and unprovoked and stones were stored beforehand at homes. "The rioters even used petrol bombs," she added. According to the DM, the situation is now under control. The violence in Banbhoolpura wasn't allowed to spread to the main city. "Paramilitary forces have also been deployed in the area and more are on their way. Additional police force from the neighbouring districts has also been deployed in the city to maintain law and order," she said. Four companies of paramilitary forces have been deployed in the city. Two companies of PAC have also arrived from Udham Singh Nagar. In the state capital Dehradun, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami held a meeting with senior officials, including Chief Secretary Radha Raturi and DGP Abhinav Kumar to review the situation in Haldwani, according to an official statement. "Besides imposition of curfew in entire Haldwani, shoot-at-sight orders against rioters were also issued in the city," the statement said. The chief minister urged everyone to maintain calm and asked officials to deal sternly with "anarchic elements", it added. Meanwhile, Uttarakhand High Court held a hearing on Thursday on a PIL seeking to stop the demolition of the mosque. Filed by Malik colony resident Safia Malik and others, the petition challenged the notice given by the Haldwani Municipal Corporation to the petitioners. However, no relief was granted in the matter by the vacation bench of Justice Pankaj Purohit, following which the demolition exercise began. The matter will now be heard on February 14. A day after violence broke out in Uttarakhand's Haldwani over demolition of an illegally-built madara, six people were reported killed on Friday. SP (City) Harbans Singh told PTI that six rioters were killed. Meanwhile, seven people got injured in the violence. CM Pushkar Dhami visited the regions were clashes broke out and said that it was a "planned" attack against the police. Uttarakhand DGP Abhinav Kumar said stringent actions invoking National Security Act (NSA) will be taken against those who attacked police personnel and indulged in arson. DG along with ADG (law and order) A.P. Anshuman visited the violence-hit region to assess the situation. "Action under the NSA will be taken against unruly elements who attacked police personnel, and indulged in arson and vandalism at the police station in Banbhoolpura," said DGP. DGP Kumar also added that the situation has been brought under control. A curfew was declared in Haldwani soon after the violence broke out. Efforts are on to bring back normalcy in the town within the next 24 hours, said Kumar. Over 1,000 police personnel were deployed after the clashes in the area. According to officials, stones were pelted at them from rooftops. At least some of the alleged rioters killed in the violence had gunshot wounds. Nainital District Magistrate Vandana Singh confirmed that orders to open fire, with instructions to shoot the rioters in the leg, were issued when the police station was attacked by the mob. Meanwhile, BJP MPs said the Haldwani violence appeared to be a "conspiracy" and warranted strict action against the guilty. "Our women police personnel were brutally thrashed. They even tried to throw a journalist into the flames. It was an attempt to disrupt the atmosphere of social amity and peace for which Uttarakhand is known," Dhami told reporters. The police had arrested four people by Friday noon in connection with the incident. Around 20 people seem to have been involved in the violence, said officials. The Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party have locked horns over Bharuch parliamentary constituency in Gujarat ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. It is a seat which the BJP has not lost since 1989 but which is of immense political importance to both the Congress and the AAP. According to Congress sources, the party is not ready to give up the seat for the AAP. On the other hand, the AAP had announced its candidate for the seat long before the negotiations for seat-sharing even began between the two parties. AAP convener and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had, in December, chosen Dediapada in Bharuch to sound the poll bugle and declared the name of party MLA Chaitar Vasava as the AAP's nominee from the constituency for the Lok Sabha elections. As per AAP leaders, the Congress has failed to win back the constituency from the BJP for over three decades and hence, it does not have a strong claim over the seat. The Congress is keen to contest from the seat and wrest it back from the BJP. The seat was once a Congress stronghold. Tribal leader Mansukhbhai Vasava is the BJP's MP from the seat at present. Vasava has held the seat since 1998. Ahmed Patel was MP from Bharuch for three consecutive terms before the seat was won by the BJP in 1989. He won the elections from Bharuch for the first time in 1977, and went on to win in 1980 and 1984. After the elections in 1989, he entered the Rajya Sabha. The political turnaround in Bharuch was seen as evidence of the BJP experimenting with Hindutva, finding success with it and establishing it in Gujarat and elsewhere. This makes it especially significant for the Congress to try and win the seat back from the BJP. As the Congress seeks to reclaim Bharuch, there is speculation over whether Patel's daughter Mumtaz, who has, since her father's demise, been cultivating the constituency, would be fielded by the party from the seat. Her brother Faisal is also learnt to be keen to contest from Bharuch. Reacting to the government's decision to confer Bharat Ratna on former prime minister P.V. Narasimha Rao, grandson of the late prime minister, N.V. Subhash, blamed the Congress, especially the Gandhi family, accusing it of "making Narasimha Rao a scapegoat for the failures of the Congress party." Subhash, a BJP leader, thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for honouring Rao with Bharat Ratna even though the former PM belonged to the Congress. "I blame the UPA government, especially the Gandhi family. From 2004 to 2014, when the UPA government was in power at the centre, leave alone Bharat Ratna, leave alone any awards, the Gandhi family was very, very instrumental in making Narasimha Rao a scapegoat for the failures of the Congress party," he was quoted as saying. He further said he feels "very, very emotional" as he has been expecting that Bharat Ratna for Rao would be delayed. Prime Minister Modi hailed Rao saying, "As a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao Garu served India extensively in various capacities. He is equally remembered for the work he did as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Union Minister, and as a Member of Parliament and Legislative Assembly for many years. His visionary leadership was instrumental in making India economically advanced, laying a solid foundation for the country's prosperity and growth." Modi observed that Rao's tenure as PM was "marked by significant measures that opened India to global markets, fostering a new era of economic development." Rao's contributions to India's foreign policy, language and education sectors underscore his multifaceted legacy as a leader who not only steered India through critical transformations but also enriched its cultural and intellectual heritage, Modi said. Former Congress leader, author, and daughter of former president Pranab Mukherjee, Sharmistha Mukherjee, who quit 'active politics' in 2021, claimed that she has been viciously trolled by Congress supporters on social media for her recent criticism of the party and its leadership. A few days ago, on the sidelines of the 17th Jaipur Literature Festival, Mukherjee had expressed concern over the state of affairs in Congress saying, she is worried about the party. "...as a Congress supporter and a responsible citizen, I am worried about the party. And certainly the time has come to look outside the Nehru-Gandhi family for leadership," she had said, while reiterating that she is a die-hard Congressperson whether people believe it or not. Speaking about the social media attacks that she has been facing, she said on Friday, "Ever since the book on my father came out, Congress social media and some of the Congress leaders also had been speaking against it. Congress social media had been viciously trolling me." "A few days back, on the sideline of the Jaipur LitFest, I made a statement in an interview and I was asked about my views about the Congress. I made it very clear that I am a Congressperson, and Congress still has a lot of importance to play in national politics. But the Congress should look beyond the leadership of Gandhi-Nehru family...Since then all hell broke loose," Mukherjee claimed. She said all kinds of abuses were heaped on her by party supporters, and even her father's name was dragged into it. "Yesterday, there has been one Congress supporter...he is followed by very senior leaders of Congress...He went berserk, saying all kinds of nasty things...nasty things having sexual connotations," she said. Mukherjee said she tried to raise the social media attacks that she has been facing with party leaders Jairam Ramesh, Supriya Shrinate, and Rahul Gandhi by tagging them, but she did not receive any response. "So, then I decided to write this open letter to Congress, to Rahul Gandhi and tweeted it...I also tagged Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge," she said. Tension prevailed in Bareilly of Uttar Pradesh on Friday after Ittehad-e-Millat Council chief Tauqeer Raza Khan, who had given a 'Jail Bharo' call to protest "against the anti-Muslim policies of the government," was detained by police. According to media reports, stones were pelted following the arrest of the cleric. Police said one person was injured in the stone pelting, and an investigation is underway. On Thursday, Khan had informed the district administration and sought permission for his 'Jail Bharo' call, which was declined citing law and order situation. The district administration sealed the Islamia College ground where Khan had asked his supporters to gather and deployed police personnel in the area. Despite these measures, thousands of supporters of Khan came out on the streets in the Biharipur area. "The programme was completed peacefully and people were returning. At that time, a fight broke out between some miscreants and people. Police reached the spot and controlled the situation. Police force has been deployed there. Action is being taken against those who are involved in this. The situation is under control. We appeal people to not to trust any rumours," Bareilly SSP Ghule Sushil Chandrabhan said. "The government is making Muslim an enemy. We are against the anti-Muslim policies of the government," Khan, a direct descendant of Ahmed Raza Khan Barelvi, the founder of Barelvi sect of Sunni Islam, claimed. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman came down heavily on Opposition in Parliament on Friday and charged the previous UPA government put family first instead of the country during the 2008 global financial crisis. Presenting the white paper on the economy during the UPA regime, the finance minister charged the UPA regime lacked of transparency and sincerity. Comparing the manner in which the two governments handled the economy during global crises- the 2008 financial crisis during the UPA regime and the COVID pandemic during the NDA regime Sitharaman said the Modi government worked with sincerity and pulled the economy out of 'fragile five' and sent it to top five globally. It is now on the verge of becoming one of the top three global economies, the finance minister said. 10 years of one government with some crisis and 10 years of a different government with different crisis. The comparison shown in this 'White Paper' clearly says how if the government handles it with true sincerity, transparency and putting the nation first, the results are there for everybody to see, Sitharaman said initiating the discussion on the white paper. When you don't put the nation first, when you put your first family first, and when you have other consideration than transparency, the results are out there for you to see. So what happened after 2008 when there was a global financial crisis and what happened post-COVID shows clearly that if the intent of the government is sincere results will be good, Sitharaman criticised. Sitharaman said the Modi government handled the much more "deadly" Covid crisis with sincerity and dedication, unlike UPA in 2008, which did not have "clean" intention. The party which could not handle the global financial crisis and continued with corruption and scandal is now giving lecture to the Modi government, the minister said, amid shouting by opposition members. In the UPA government, decision-making came to a standstill due to corruption and scandals in defence, compromising defence preparedness. The government delayed the acquisition of artillery and anti-aircraft guns, fighters, submarines, night fighting gear and a host of equipment upgrades," ANI reported quoting the report. The government charged controversies such as 2G spectrum scam, coal gate scam and the Common Wealth Games (CWG) reflected poorly on India's image as an investment destination. -with agency inputs. The Mumbai Crime Branch will launch a probe into the shocking murder of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Abhishek Ghosalkar who was shot dead during a Facebook Live. Ghosalkar was shot by Mauris Noronha, a local social activist, who also killed himself. The incident happened on Thursday evening at Noronha's office in IC Colony in the northern suburb of Borivali (West). The footage of the incident which went viral showed Ghosalkar being shot in the abdomen and shoulder. Police said 40-year-old Ghosalkar was the son of former MLA Vinod Ghosalkar, a loyalist of the Uddhav Thackeray-led party. He was also a former corporator and had personal enmity with the Noronha. "The officers from the Crime Branch are carrying out the probe. Prima facie, it seems there was some kind of a rivalry between these two and the killing may have been a fallout of the same," DCP (Crime Branch) Raj Tilak Roshan told ANI. In Maharashtra, criminals have no fear of the law. You can see that a man named Morris called former Shivsena UBT corporator Abhishek Ghosalkar to his office and shoot him during facebook live.#Maharashtrahttps://t.co/7dUSi6j2xt Ashish (@error040290) February 8, 2024 "Ghosalkar and Noronha had personal enmity but the Facebook live was arranged to clarify that they had come together, ending their bitterness for the betterment of the IC Colony area," another police official said. Ghosalkar was rushed to Karuna Hospital in north Mumbai along with the assailant but both succumbed to their injuries. Hundreds of Sena (UBT) supporters gathered outside the hospital, following which a heavy police posse was deployed. The Crime Branch probe will focus on several aspects, including how Noronha got the weapon and who provided it to him. The probe will also centre on whether Noronha was under the influence of alcohol at the time. The officials are questioning the people who were present at the spot. Police believe Noronha used an illegal pistol for the crime. Roshan added that the Crime Branch will try to ascertain from where Noronha procured the pistol and who provided it to him, the official said. "The team has started the probe and is trying to gather evidence," he said. The incident took place days after a BJP MLA was caught on camera firing at an Eknath Shinde faction leader inside a police station at Ulhasnagar. Chief Minister Shinde said on Thursday that a probe was being launched into the latest firing incident. The Congress, on Friday, welcomed the Centre's decision to confer Bharat Ratna on former prime minister and Congress leader P.V. Narasimha Rao, who the party is often accused of ignoring. On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that Rao, another former prime minister Charan Singh, and Green Revolution pioneer M.S. Swaminathan will be conferred the Bharat Ratna. When asked about the Bharat Ratna announcements, specifically for Rao, Sonia Gandhi was very brief in her response. "I welcome them... why not," the Congress leader said. The Congress, while welcoming the announcements, also attacked the Modi government, saying it is "silent" on giving legal status to minimum support price to farmers based on the Swaminathan formula. Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh said in a tweet, "Shri PV Narasimha Rao, Chaudhary Charan Singh and Dr. MS Swaminathan were, are and will always be the 'Bharat ke Ratna'. Their contribution was unprecedented, which every Indian respects." "The Modi government is silent on giving legal status of minimum support price to farmers based on Dr. Swaminathan's formula. Due to the stubbornness of Prime Minister Modi, 700 farmers were martyred during the movement, but the government broke its promise to the farmers. Even today the farmers are ready to march to Delhi, but the government is not listening," Ramesh said. "Providing justice to farmers is one of the main objectives of the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. Our demand for 'Kisan Nyay (justice to farmers)' is that a legal guarantee of giving minimum support price to farmers should be given on the basis of the Swaminathan formula. This will be a true tribute to former prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh ji and Swaminathan ji," he said. Congress leader Madhu Goud Yaskhi hailed the decision saying, "They are the national icons...they are the pride of the nation." He also praised Sonia Gandhi, saying she "could have become the PM but she respected the intelligence and sacrifices of Narasimha Rao for the Congress, she pointed out that Narasimha Rao should become the PM." Lauding the contributions of Rao, he said, "...country was in turmoil economically (when Rao became the PM), but he lifted the country financially, brought reforms and he contributed to the growth you are seeing right now, that time Manmohan Singh was his finance minister; together they built this nation's economy. The BJP is only adding up the floors and claiming it is all because of them." As early results of the election to Pakistan's National Assembly held on Thursday trickle in, all major political parties are tied neck-and-neck. However, Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-backed Independent candidates are currently leading, winning five of the 12 seats. According to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) website, PTI-backed Independents won five, while four were won by the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N), the party of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif. Three seats were taken by the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the son of assassinated premier Benazir Bhutto. Khan's candidates are facing the electoral battle without the party symbol and name after ECP banned PTI from using it on the technical grounds that it did not hold an internal leadership election. The main battle is expected to be between candidates backed by PTI candidates and PML-N, who analysts say is being backed by the powerful military. The polling ended at 5 pm on Thursday but the first official result was announced 10 hours later at 3 am on Friday, triggering speculations of foul play to manipulate the outcome. However, the ECP cited "internet issue" as the reason behind the delay. The government said it suspended mobile phone services ahead of the election on Thursday as a security measure, a move which was widely condemned. A party needs 133 seats in parliament for a simple majority but many analysts believe the vote may not produce a clear winner. However, local media reports said that the PTI claimed the lead on 154 seats. PTI chairman Barrister Gohar Khan in a statement claimed that the party was also in a position to form governments in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces. He urged the ECP to announce all results without any further delay. People reads morning newspapers with the front page election headlines along a roadside stall a day after Pakistan's national general election in Lahore | AFP There are also rumours that the PML-N and PPP would form a coalition government but Sharif dismissed the suggestions. "Don't talk about a coalition government. It is very important for a government to get a clear majority... It should not be relying on others," he told reporters after casting his vote in the eastern city of Lahore. As the election progressed, the PML-N acknowledged a "huge" voter turnout in favour of PTI but expressed hope that Sharif would get a record fourth term as the country's prime minister. PML-N leader Maryam Aurangzeb said that the results are changing as they come in, stressing that preliminary results cannot be relied upon to say who's winning from a said constituency. "We were in the lead [when] suddenly the results stopped coming in," she said. She also claimed PML-N's Senior Vice President Maryam Nawaz's victory on the PP-159 seat for the Punjab assembly. There are also reports that the Returning Officers allegedly stopped issuing results to the media following an 'apparent victory' of PTI in most seats in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) provinces. Pakistan is witnessing an unexpected political twist wherein independent candidates backed by former Prime Minister Imran Khan's party are leading the just-concluded elections to the National Assembly. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has so far announced 61 results of the National Assembly, showing the PTI-backed independent candidates winning 22 seats. Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari-led PPP also secured victory in 22 seats, followed by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz in 17 seats. However, according to the projection by Geo News, a Karachi-based broadcaster, independent candidates backed by Khan's PTI won in 47 of 106 parliamentary seats as counting progressed on Friday. The majority mark in the 265 seats is 133. Elections were held for all seats, except one where the candidates died. However, the unusual delay in announcing the results has triggered speculations of rigging. The elections have already been marred by allegations of rigging, sporadic violence and a countrywide mobile phone shutdown. There were dozens of parties in the fray but the main contest was among Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), whose candidates are running as independents, former three-time premier Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (N) and Bilawal Zardari Bhutto's Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). Meanwhile, Nawaz Sharif's PML-N, which has won at least 17 seats so far, may form a coalition government with independent candidates, Sharif's aide Ishaq Dar suggested on Friday, Geo reported. "I am confident that we will form a government," Dar said, adding that his party would concede if any other party emerged a clear winner. The big names who won included PML-N top leaders, including former premier Sharif who won by a big margin by getting 171,024 votes against PTI-backed independent Dr Yasmin Rashid who polled 115,043. His younger brother and former premier Shehbaz Sharif also won, in addition to his son Hamza Shehbaz and Sharif's daughter Maryam Nawaz. All four family members scored victories from Lahore, their home and party's stronghold. PTI leader Gohar Ali Khan won NA-10 in the Buner area of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa with 110,023 votes, according to the ECP. He defeated Awami National Party candidate Abdul Rauf who came second with 30,302 votes. PTI's former speaker National Assembly Asad Qaisar also won. PPP leaders Asif Ali Zardari and his son party chief Bilawal were leading in their constituencies. The prominent losers in the elections were PTI's former leader and defence minister Pervaiz Khattak. (With PTI inputs) Ahead of the official declaration, Pakistan's former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif started celebrations announcing his victory in the general elections on Friday. Sharif said his political party has emerged as the "largest" in the vote and will discuss forming a coalition government. However, Sharif did not disclose how many seats his party had won in total. Addressing the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supporters at the party's central secretariat, Sharif said his party respects the mandate of all parties, including candidates backed by PTI. Sharif also said there is a need for all the political parties to sit together and form a government to pull Pakistan out of its difficulties. "We can't hold elections again and again, he said. "We were all sitting together yesterday but didn't address you because the results were not in...We are inviting everyone today to rebuild this injured Pakistan and sit with us, he said as the country appeared heading towards a hung parliament," said Sharif. He also added that everyone should sit in harmony and bring Pakistan out of the difficulties. A party must require 133 seats out of 265 in the National Assembly to form the government. Amid rigging allegations, election commission is yet to make an official announcement on the results. As counting ended in over half the seats, PTI-backed candidates were in lead. According to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) data, with results of 224 constituencies declared, PTI-backed independents won 92 seats, while PML-N got 63, and PPP won in 50 seats. Overall, 169 seats are needed to secure a simple majority out of its total 336 seats, which include the reserved slots for women and minorities. Being behind the bars, Imran Khan was barred from contesting the elections. While PTI candidates were running as independents after they were not allowed to use the party symbol - a cricket 'bat'. Earlier, PTI had ruled out all possibilities of forming an alliance with the PPP and PML-N. According to PTI chairman Barrister Gohar Khan, his party is in a position to form a federal government. "We are not intending to form a coalition government with PPP and PML-N," he said. Meanwhile, Sharif had won by a big margin by getting 171,024 votes against PTI-backed independent Dr Yasmin Rashid who polled 115,043 in Lahore. Amid rigging allegations, violence and internet shutdown, Pakistan poll results gets further delayed on Friday. Former Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) won 55 out of the 139 National Assembly results announced by the election commission so far. PTI is followed by Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari's Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). The PML-N has bagged 43 seats while PPP has won 35 (as reported by 7:00 pm IST) A party must get 133 seats out of 265 in the National Assembly to form the government. Due to the death of a candidate, election to one seat was postponed. According to the ECP, PTI leader Gohar Ali Khan won NA-10 in the Buner area of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa with 110,023 votes. He defeated Awami National Party candidate Abdul Rauf with 30,302 votes. PTI's former speaker National Assembly Asad Qaisar also won. The prominent losers in the elections were PTI's former leader and defence minister Pervaiz Khattak. In the Punjab Assembly, PML-N has won 39 seats, independent candidates have won 33 seats and Muslim League-Q has won two seats. PTI claimed that it won the elections while alleging that results were being delayed to rig the outcome. PTI in a statement on X stated that it won more than 150 NA seats out of 265 open for contest as per the data received in Form 45s, which are the primary source of election results at the lowest level and show the votes for each candidate at each polling station. Copies of these forms have been collected by PTI candidates' polling agents, which show them winning by a large majority, it stated. PTI has won well over 150 National Assembly seats & is in a solid position to form government in Federal, Punjab & KP (Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa), with a clear majority, said reports. In another statement, PTI alleged that its mandate was being stolen. Let the world know that the clear and overwhelming mandate of the people of Pakistan is being stolen, it stated. Meanwhile, the four Sharif family members of the PML-N party have managed to win their Assembly seats from their stronghold Lahore in the concluded general elections. PML-N supremo and former premier Nawaz Sharif, 74, won from NA-130 by securing over 172,000 votes against PTI's Dr Yasmin Rashid who got over 113,000. Nawaz's daughter Maryam Nawaz, 50, won from NA-119 securing over 83,000 votes against PTI Farooq Shahzad who bagged over 68,000. While his nephew Hamza Shehbaz, 49, won from NA-118 by securing over 105,000 votes against PTI's Aliya Hamza who bagged over 100,000. Nawaz's younger brother and former PM Shehbaz Sharif, 72, won from NA-123 bagging 63,000 votes against PTI's Afzaal Phaat who had over 48,000 votes. However, PML-N supremo Sharif faced a significant defeat against independent candidate Shahzada Gastasap in the NA-15 Mansehra constituency. PPP chief Bilawal Bhutto Zardari lost the Lahore National Assembly seat NA-127 to PML-N's Atta Tarar.Bilawal could manage to get only 15,000 votes. PPP alleged that the Bilawals voted were changed in Lahore. (With PTI inputs) In a rare interview with American journalist Tucker Carlson, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the West has come to realise that Russia will not be defeated on the battlefield. He added that Russia has no interest in expanding its war in Ukraine to other countries. The interview aired on Thursday, which many view as Putin's outreach to the Donald Trump-led GOP, is also his first with a Western media outlet since the start of his full-scale war in Ukraine and his first with an American one since 2021. The President said Russia will fight for its interests "to the end". He spoke in Russian and his remarks were dubbed into English. Putin began with lengthy remarks about Russia's relations with Ukraine, Poland and other countries. On whether he could imagine a scenario in which he would send Russian troops to Poland, a NATO member, Putin replied: "Only in one case, if Poland attacks Russia. Why? Because we have no interest in Poland, Latvia or anywhere else. Why would we do that? We simply don't have any interest." He added that Western leaders had come to realise it was impossible to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia and were wondering what to do next. "If so, if the realisation has set in, they have to think what to do next. We are ready for this dialogue," Putin said. On whether NATO could accept Russian control over parts of Ukraine, Putin said: "Let them think how to do it with dignity. There are options if there is a will." The Russian President also blamed former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson for stopping Ukraine from agreeing to a deal to end the hostilities at a talk held in Istanbul in April 2022. Putin said Ukraine was on the verge of agreeing to the deal but backed away once Russian troops withdrew from near Kyiv. "The fact that they [Ukraine] obey the demand or persuasion of Mr Johnson, the former prime minister of Great Britain, seems ridiculous," Putin said. "Because as Mr Arahamiya put it, we could have stopped those hostilities with war a year and a half ago already. But the British persuaded us and we refused this. Where is Mr Johnson now? And the war continues." "Well now let them think how to reverse the situation," he said. "We're not against it. It would be funny if it were not so sad that. This endless mobilisation in Ukraine, the hysteria, the domestic problems, sooner or later it will result in an agreement." On Carlson's question about the possibility of American soldiers fighting in Ukraine, Putin retorted: "Dont you have anything better to do?. You have issues on the border, issues with migration, issues with the national debt. Wouldnt it be better to negotiate with Russia?" He added that Russia and the US still speak "through various agencies" about ending the conflict. On Russias message to the US, Putin said: "If you really want to stop fighting, you need to stop supplying weapons. It will be over within a few weeks." The interview garnered a lot of controversy even before its airing after the Kremlin said Putin agreed to the Carlson interview because the approach of the former Fox News host differed from the reporting of the Ukraine conflict by many Western news outlets. Carlson is considered to have close connections to Trump, who is expected to be the Republican Party candidate in the November U.S. presidential election. Analysts also believe Putin used the interview as a platform to air his views on a wide range of subjects, including the war, to a global audience. Tatiana Stanovaya, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center, told The New York Post that the interview underscores Putins "tactical confidence" as his adversaries embattle difficulties, including on the battlefield. Aid from the US is stalled, a possible ascend of Trump to the Presidency and Ukraine's struggle on the battlefield. "That confluence of circumstances means that the interview with Carlson comes as Putin senses his finest hour," said Tatiana Stanovaya, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center. The Russian President now aims at securing a peace deal in Ukraine that would cement Russias control of the territory it has already captured and install a friendly government in Kyiv. Amit Shahs legacy as a consummate election manager was defined through his role as the BJPs Uttar Pradesh in-charge for the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. The party won 71 of 80 seats. His organisational skills were in focus again when he was BJP president, but those who knew him from his Gujarat days were not surprised with this display of political acumen at the national level. Then, in 2019, he became Union home minister, and began building another, more historically relevant legacy. One that could well be the yardstick against which future home ministers are measured. In the past five years, Shah has overhauled the internal security landscape and ushered in reforms that are in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modis governance model. The biggest of these reforms, in the criminal justice system, was the replacement of the old laws. CAA is back on the governments agenda, and this time Shah is prepared to deal with any backlash. The ministry has held several meetings to map out scenarios once the rules are notified and to find possible solutions. Shah said it was a learning that had come in after 75 years. Every society makes its own laws, he said, replying to critics who have questioned the need for such a massive overhaul. The British brought the Indian Penal Code, CrPC and Indian Evidence Act in the 19th century with the objective of consolidating their rule. The aim was not justice, but punishment to the enslaved population. Today, the aim is to create an equal and just society. Home ministry officials said that when independent India turned 75, Modi had listed five vowspanch pranfrom the ramparts of the Red Fort. The new criminal laws fulfil one of them: End the mentality of slavery, where correction, not punishment; reformation, not rejection; justice, not mere penalties; and nationality, not servitude, are at the heart of the reforms. The government has called the new laws the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam. Shah has defended the Indian names and has asked critics to introspect on why they accept a foreign language brought in by invaders and resist an Indian one. I dont think it is correct, he said, looking a tad surprised. As home minister, Shah has the ear, and complete trust of the prime minister. In fact, when a political or government issue is brought before Modi, he is said to often ask the person to consult Amit Shah, too. In the past five years, Shahs refrain has been, I am willing to listen to all grievances, but everyone should follow the law. In 2019, three months into becoming home minister, Shah was at the forefront of the government move to abrogate Article 370 of the Constitution. It required deft political handling as it had geo-strategic implications, too. Security watchers in Jammu and Kashmir said that in the period that followed the abrogation, not a single bullet was fired in protest. The mirage created by certain politicians to suit their political ambitions fell flat, said a key security official in Jammu and Kashmir who spoke on the condition of anonymity. Four years later, the Supreme Court upheld the validity of the decision, stamping out the last legal hurdle in what the BJP brass saw as the biggest impediment to the final integration of India. Shah is also the driving force behind the Citizenship (Amendment) Act of 2019, which seeks to ensure that persecuted Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistanwho entered India on or before December 31, 2014are given Indian citizenship. The amendments caused protests in many corners of the country, and the government quietly put the move on hold. Right on target: A woman dressed as Lord Ram at a rally in favour of CAA at Shaheed Minar in Kolkata in March 2020 | Salil Bera But, more than four years down the line, it is back on the governments agenda, and this time Shah is prepared to deal with any backlash. The opposition is trying to mislead [people]; it is not a law to take away anyones citizenship, but to give it, said Shah. The ministry has held several meetings to map out scenarios once the rules are notified and to find possible solutions. Another Shah intervention has been in the handling of bureaucratic appointments. The weightage given to merit over seniority in bureaucracy, especially in top postings of Central agencies like the Intelligence Bureau (incumbent director Tapan Deka superseded four colleagues) is moving the wheels swiftly and effectively in a large country with myriad threats, from [issues in] economic security to cyber crimes, said a Union minister. Under Shah, the threat of hinterland terrorism has also diminished. The advent of Islamic State, first in Syria and later in Afghanistan, saw many youth with extremist tendencies moving out of the country to fight wars in foreign lands. This caused worry about new threats of fundamentalism and online brainwashing in 2014, but the home ministry and intelligence agencies are better prepared to deal with these today. However, old threats are being replaced by newer worries of an emerging nexus between organised criminal gangs and trans-national terror syndicates assisted by Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence. The mushrooming of these gangs, especially in north India, is a major security threat as many gang leaders are directing operations within India from foreign shores. To tackle this, Shah has brought in the National Investigation Agency, which has filed several charge sheets against gang leaders in Punjab and elsewhere. Even his political detractors say that when it comes to matters of national security, the home minister is ready to extend all help to opposition-ruled states. A key example is when alleged extremist Amritpal Singh, on the run, was caught in Aam Aadmi Party-ruled Punjab. The Central security establishment under Shah swung into action to keep the troublemaker out of Punjab. Singh was whisked off to BJP-ruled Assam to cool his heels in a Central jail there. The threat is yet to be crushed fully as gangsters are hiding on foreign soil. But Shah is confident the new criminal laws have the answer. For the first time, we have brought in a provision of trial in absentia, which is a revolutionary step, he said. It is one thing to be seen as an accused, but another to be seen as a convict by the world. In the Naxal-affected states of Chhattisgarh, Bihar and Jharkhand, security forces are slowly clawing back into territories once considered red zones. The home ministry has reported a 72 per cent drop in fatalities among security forces in the past nine years. Shahs handling of annual home ministry meetings is another example of security getting prominence over political differences. The attendees say that chief ministers and police officers of insurgency- and Naxal-affected states are given more importance even if they come from opposition-ruled states. The trend before 2014, said a chief minister, was to treat these people as pariahs by making them sit in separate rooms. Chief ministers and police chiefs of better-performing states had a relaxing time while tougher states slogged. Now, both Modi and Shah sit with the police of all states for two days, every year, to thrash out key action points that are followed until implementation. In fact, the farther we come from, the closer the audience with the home minister, said a senior police officer from the northeast. The resultmore than nine peace accords and surrenders of more than 9,000 militants in the northeast. Manipur, however, has become a trouble spot and the government is relying on Shah to pull off a strategy to stop the ethnic violence and save the BJP government of Biren Singh from long-term damage. The dangers to national security are as vast as the size of the worlds largest democracy. But, on the home stretch of his first term as Union minister, Shah looks to be in complete command as the prime ministers most trusted lieutenant. In Indias political history, 1984 was epochal. It was the year prime minister Indira Gandhi was assassinated. It was also the year the four-year-old BJP found itself in an existential crisisit could win only two seats in the Lok Sabha polls held after Indiras death. For years, the party had to endure taunts of getting seats equivalent to the family planning norms of the day. Forty years later, though, the tide is set to turn, as Narendra Modi prepares to become the first non-Congress prime minister to win a third term. Unlike the 2019 elections, when the government had to pitch in with an election-oriented interim budget, the euphoria around the consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has the BJP in a comfortable position. The sentiment has huge potential to turn into votes; also, Ram Navami in April could act as another call to the faithful. With the Modi governments development pitch and its massive outreach to more than 80 crore beneficiaries of Central government schemes, the BJP has a big lead in getting its messaging to key target groupswomen, youth, poor and farmers. Also helping the party is the fact that the opposition is yet to set an emphatic narrative, and is even showing signs of unravelling. The outcome of assembly polls in three states in December had shown that, with its organisational strength, the BJP could even turn voter apathy after years of ruleas in Madhya Pradeshinto a comprehensive victory. At the instance of Amit Shah, Union home minister and the partys main strategist, the BJP had devised innovative schemes, such as the one that involved establishing an institutionalised system to make calls to wake up booth-level workers and functionaries early in the morning on polling day. This was to activate them into getting voters to booths and carry out other tasks. Shahs mantra: win the booth, win the seat. For the Lok Sabha campaign, booth-level workers have been given a targetget 50 per cent of votes in their respective booths. For their part, Modi, Shah, party president J.P. Nadda and other senior leaders will talk about Modi Guarantee. The slogan has good recall value, and it was successfully tested in the assembly polls in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. Modi Guarantee means that 80 crore people, who were neglected by earlier governments, were given houses, gas, power, food, water, medicines. Modi Guarantee means that everyone in this country has a right to live a good life, which is the spirit of our Constitution, Shah said. It was after serving as party president for five years that Shah became home minister. Yet he continues to do party work. Working for the party is akin to breathing, he said. Shah understands the importance of party work, as he started as an ordinary worker pasting posters. Painting graffiti on walls is now an institutionalised process in the partys election campaign. The BJP launched its graffiti campaign for the Lok Sabha polls on January 15, showing that while social media may dominate the narrative, old-fashioned campaigning remains essential in creating a favourable atmosphere. The last 10 years have been significant for the country, as they marked a pronounced shift towards matters of faith. Cultural nationalism is now a dominant theme, especially in the Hindi heartland. The decision to implement the Uniform Civil Code in Uttarakhand has given a signal that it has ticked off all promises in its election manifesto. Other states where the BJP is in power may follow suit. The challenge before the BJP is to increase its seats in the east and the south, which has big states like West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The party has always performed well in the Lok Sabha polls in Karnataka. The enhanced vote share in the Telangana assembly elections has given the party hopes of increasing its Lok Sabha tally from four seats. Renewed alliances with the Janata Dal (Secular) in Karnataka and the Janata Dal (United) in Bihar have opened possibilities of the return of the Shiromani Akali Dal, the Telugu Desam Party and the AIADMK to the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance fold (NDA). During the 2019 polls, when the NDA included Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumars JD(U), it had won 39 of 40 seats in the state. Nitishs return to the saffron fold is being attributed to the growing support for the BJP after the Ram Temple consecration, and his own experience at the hustings. The JD(U) had won 16 seats in 2019 and just two in 2014, when it was not part of the NDA. A similar engineering in Maharashtra has the BJP at an advantage. In 2019, the NDA comprising the BJP and the Shiv Sena had won 48 seats in the state. The NCP had won four. Now the dominant breakaway groups of the Shiv Sena and the NCP are with the NDA. The dissension within the INDIA bloc in West Bengal is good news for the BJP. Together, these four statesBihar, Maharashtra, West Bengal and Karnatakaaccount for 158 Lok Sabha seats. The BJP is also banking on increasing its tally in Odisha, where Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik is preparing to set a record for being the longest serving chief minister in the country (fewer than 200 days remain for him to achieve the target). The BJPs tribal outreach efforts are also set to reap dividends in Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand. The Modi government has also ticked another crucial box by conferring Bharat Ratna to two leaders representing the two dominant political streams in the countryKarpoori Thakur, former Bihar chief minister who championed social justice, and L.K. Advani, the original flag-bearer of the hindutva and Ram Temple movement. At the ground level, it is the merger of Mandal and Kamandal politics. SOLAN, India, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Shoolini University, a 15-year-old institution, recently celebrated a significant milestone in scientific research. The university's own Dr Lokender Kumar, an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology and an alumnus of the institution, authored a groundbreaking research paper that has been published in the prestigious Nature Journal. This milestone not only highlights Dr Kumar's exceptional contribution to the field but also showcases Shoolini University's dedication to fostering research and innovation. Nature, a leading multidisciplinary scientific journal known for its stringent peer-review process, boasts an impact factor of 64.8 and a SCImago Journal Rank of 20.957. This journal's reputation for excellence makes being published in it a clear indicator of the research's quality and importance. Over the past five years, Nature has published 14,900 papers globally, with only 140 contributions from Indian authors. Dr Kumar's paper stands out as one of these select publications, highlighting the remarkable nature of this achievement within the Indian scientific community. Dr Kumar's research focuses on the role of 7-dehydrocolesterol (7-DHC) as a regulator of cell death, which is of significance in many cellular processes and diseases. This discovery is particularly significant as it sheds light on the adaptive mechanisms of cells to regulate ferroptosis, highlighting the key role of 7-DHC in cellular processes. By understanding how cells utilise 7-DHC, researchers in future can explore new therapeutic strategies aimed at targeting this molecular mechanism. This research opens new avenues for targeted therapies, also offering potential insights into neuroprotection, cancer, ageing, cardiovascular health, and metabolic disorders and treatments. Chancellor Prof PK Khosla congratulated Dr Kumar, expressing pride in his dual role as an alumnus and faculty member. He announced a cash award of Rs 5 lakh for Dr Kumar, to be presented during the upcoming Prerna Diwas on the Shoolini campus. He further declared that any faculty member who publishes a paper in Nature would receive an award of Rs 5 lakh. Highlighting the university's commitment to research, he stated, "Our mission is to advance knowledge and make meaningful contributions to society through research. By rewarding high-quality research outputs, we underscore our dedication to this mission and establish a standard for academic excellence." Vice Chancellor Prof Atul Khosla expressed immense pride in Dr Kumar's accomplishment, commending him for bringing honour to both the university and the country. He stated that the university is committed to fostering research excellence and will continue to encourage other researchers to aspire to the high standards established by Dr Kumar. Founder President and Trustee of the Foundation for Life Sciences and Business Management, Mrs Saroj Khosla, expressed pride in Dr Lokender Kumar's background as a student of Shoolini Institute of Life Sciences and Business Management (SILB) and as one of the first batch of gold medalists from Himachal Pradesh University. She commended his achievements, stating her immense pride in his accomplishments. Before joining Shoolini University, Dr Kumar underwent multidisciplinary training at the Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado, USA, and earned his Ph.D. in Microbiology from Panjab University, India. His academic excellence and research prowess have been recognised through prestigious awards, including the DST-Inspire Fellowship and the CSIR-UGC junior research fellowship. Dr Lokinder did his Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Microbiology (Gold Medalist) from SILB affiliated to Himachal Pradesh University. With his multidisciplinary training, Dr. Kumar is engaged in research understanding cellular signaling pathways in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Dr Kumar, with roots in the serene town of Manali, Himachal Pradesh, stands at the forefront of pioneering scientific exploration of the region. For more information about Dr Kumar's research, please refer to the full article published in Nature. (https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-023-06878-9) Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2337861/LokenderKumarwithChancellorProfPKKhosla.jpg Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/792680/4538720/ShooliniUniversityLogo.jpg (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PRNewswire and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR PWR NEW DELHI, Feb. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- ET Now presents the Global Business Summit 2024, which will be hosted at the Taj Palace, Delhi, India, on 9th and 10th February; the excitement around the summit is palpable. The event is expected to be a critical forum for discussions on global economic trends, business collaborations, and strategic partnerships that India Inc. is eagerly looking forward to. The Indian delegation, consisting of ministers, brings a wide range of expertise and perspectives to the summit, allowing for a comprehensive discussion of global business, trade, and economic development, which will underscore India's vision of becoming a $30-trillion economy. Headlining the event today, 9th February (Day 1) will be Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, offering his insights and perspectives on the evolving business landscape. His address comes amidst intense election fever, as India prepares to choose its next government. This adds a layer of significance to the summit, with business leaders keenly seeking signals on economic policies and investment possibilities under different political scenarios. Adding to the star power is the participation of key Indian ministers: Hon'ble Home Minister and Minister of Co-operation Amit Shah, who will highlight the government's focus on internal security and promoting cooperative business models. Chief Minister of Haryana, Shri Manohar Lal, who has committed to ET Now Global Business Summit 2024 by collaborating as a State Partner, highlighting the state's commitment to economic development and business-friendly policies positioning it as a major player in the Indian economy. The summit will also see other key ministers: Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Textiles, Government of India Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Union Minister of State for Electronics & Information Technology and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Government of India Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister of Railways, Communications and Electronics & Information Technology, Government of India The 8th edition of The Times Group presents ET Now Global Business Summit promises to be a historic event that fosters collaboration and dialogue among leaders from all over the world. About ET Now Global Business Summit The Times Group presents ET Now Global Business Summit stands as a distinguished platform that has in the past hosted an illustrious array of personalities, both from India and around the world. This distinguished list includes luminaries such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi; the visionary Bill Gates from Microsoft; Brian Chesky of Airbnb; Arianna Huffington from Huffington Post Media Group; Dara Khosrowshahi, the leader of Uber; Reed Hastings representing Netflix; the innovative Steve Wozniak from Apple; renowned venture capitalist Guy Kawasaki; Anshula Kant from the World Bank Group; Gautam Adani of Adani Group; Sunil Bharti Mittal from Bharti Enterprises; the iconic actor Shah Rukh Khan; and the esteemed Economist and Nobel Laureate Paul Krugman, among other influential figures. This summit continues to be a nexus of unparalleled insights and global perspectives, bringing together the brightest minds to shape the future of business and innovation. About ET Edge ET Edge an Initiative of The Times Group is India's largest conference and thought leadership company. Since its inception in 2015, ET Edge has been at the forefront of creating unique thought leadership initiatives with the objective to empower multiple sectors, industries, and segments by dispersing critical business knowledge through strategically developed specialised conferences and summits. A team of young, enthusiastic, and innovative minds across multiple cities in India work together towards a common objective of curating pertinent conversations that address today's business needs. ET Now Global Business Summit is among ET Edge's flagship IPs, which strives to bring together visionaries and key global leaders through its enriched knowledge platforms to aid the symbiotic relationship between societies and businesses. Some of the other marquee conference properties of ET Edge include (SDG) Sustainability Development Goals Summit, Supply Chain Summit, CX Summit, and Best Brands series. (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PRNewswire and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR PWR CHENNAI, India, Feb. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- BCT Digital, a global digital transformation company delivering FinTech, RegTech, and SustainTech solutions, today announced that it has been ranked amongst the top 100 RiskTech companies by Chartis Research, in its recently published RiskTech100 2024 report, for the third consecutive year. BCT Digital's ranking moved up by 6 places, in recognition of its pioneering product risk and compliance management suite 'rt360'. The company's revolutionary fintech, regtech, and sustainability solutions help enterprises optimize their core governance, risk, and compliance processes, enabling them to augment their positioning and go-to-market capabilities. 'For three consecutive years, BCT Digital has been honored to be recognized by Chartis Research,' declares Jaya Vaidhyanathan, CEO at BCT Digital. 'This acknowledgment highlights our enduring commitment to fostering expertise in the global risk-tech landscape. Our steadfast dedication to prioritizing and developing the ESG product suite has resulted in positive outcomes, driving our ambition to expand into international markets. These products play a pivotal role in assisting organizations with self-assessment against global standards and frameworks. As we wrap up a successful business year and usher in a new one, we eagerly look forward to supporting more financial institutions and global enterprises in their digital transformation journey through our comprehensive suite of effective products.' 'BCT Digital's rise in the RiskTech100 rankings reflects several important developments and approaches across ESG, GRC and Credit Risk,' said Sid Dash, Chief Researcher at Chartis. 'Notably, the company's deepening pool of products is augmented by a continued focus on credit monitoring for an increasing variety of lending institutions.' BCT Digital's products harness newer technologies such as AI, Predictive Analytics, and Big Data, offering holistic insights and predictability of risk management. The products are tailored to address both the niche challenges particular to the Indian context and the geo specific regulatory compliance. Therefore, the product suite has found its acceptance in the global marketplace, specifically across the USA and The Middle East. RiskTech100 is globally acknowledged as the most comprehensive independent study of the world's major players in risk and compliance technology. Using a robust, repeatable methodology, it ranks the top 100 risk technology providers and identifies the top players in specific risk and compliance categories. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2336257/BCTDigitalLogo.jpg (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PRNewswire and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR PWR MUMBAI, India, Feb. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Fibe (formerly EarlySalary), India's leading Fintech, has significantly enhanced customer experience and has reduced the response time by 99%. Through its association with Locobuzz, a CX management platform, Fibe has improved the efficiency and effectiveness of its customer interactions, thereby boosting brand loyalty. With over 5 lakh active customers, Fibe handles over 10,000 monthly conversations. With an aim to efficiently manage the influx of customer interactions, Fibe sought the services of Locobuzz' unified CX platform. The primary objective of the association was to proactively engage with inquiries, requests, and feedback across various digital channels, while effectively tracking untagged mentions, managing multi-channel conversations, and gaining competitive insights. The platform empowered Fibe with a comprehensive suite of tools including: Social Listening: Enabled tracking of 100% mentions, including untagged and viral content, ensuring no query went unnoticed. Sentiment Analysis: Enhanced understanding of customer emotions, allowing for prompt and effective response. Competitor Tracking: Provided valuable insights into competitor strategies and campaign effectiveness, allowing Fibe to refine its own approach and stay ahead of the curve. SSRE (Social Service Response Engine): Automated social media response management, ensuring swift and consistent customer service. DIY Dashboards: Empowered data-driven decisions with customised reports and key metric monitoring. Fibe leveraged Locobuzz's solutions to significantly improve its response time across various digital touchpoints. The robust tools contributed to Fibe successfully reducing its customer service turnaround time from 96 hours to an impressive 45 minutes. The SSRE further heightened the efficiency, ensuring SLA (Service Level Agreement) closure within just 1 hour and 9 minutes. These improvements, coupled with effective social media engagement, significantly elevated Fibe's Social Reputation Score, thereby strengthening the brand advocacy. Mr. Sudesh Shetty, F ounding Member and Head of Marketing of Fibe said, "Fibe has always remained committed to provide a superior and seamless experience to its customers. The Locobuzz platform has further propelled our customer-first approach and enabled us to authentically engage with our audience, gain a competitive edge, and make data-driven decisions. We will continue to enhance our monitoring tools and response time to take our brand to newer heights." Shubhi Agarwal, Co-Founder & COO of Locobuzz explained, "Fintech service providers are at a pivotal juncture, where the surge in internet services aligns seamlessly with the escalating need for digital customer support." "It's a privilege for us to partner with Fibe in crafting unparalleled customer experiences across digital channels. By leveraging the power of automation and AI within the Locobuzz unified platform, Fibe can adeptly handle extensive customer inquiries and reviews, paving the way for long-term service enhancements based on deep insights." Fibe's partnership with Locobuzz has been instrumental in their success on social media. Locobuzz has provided them with the tools and insights to engage with their audience effectively, analyse competitor activity, and make data-driven decisions for their social media strategy and marketing campaigns. Fibe is solidifying its position as a leader in the FinTech space by forging lasting connections with its young, tech-savvy customer base. About Fibe: Fibe (previously EarlySalary) is one of India's leading consumer lending apps focused on young, aspirational, and tech-savvy Indian consumers. It is building a financial ecosystem that enables the mid-income group to fulfil their aspirations. It is an industry leader in the salary advance segment with the fastest processing time. It has launched a host of financial products like Cash Loans, long-term Personal Loans and Buy Now Pay Later plans. It offers a 100% digital loan application process that takes just seconds to complete. Its technology arm Social Worth Technologies Pvt. Ltd. has partnered with Axis Bank to launch the Fibe Axis Bank Credit Card. Fibe has grown multifold over the years and emerged as a market leader in providing financial assistance to young middle-income groups in India. Due to its highly scalable business model, Fibe recently has been upgraded to BBB+ by CARE Ratings and has been certified with ISO/IEC 2001 for its Information Security Management System (ISMS). Today, Fibe has access to debt lines to leading PSUs & Private Banks, Large Notable NBFCs and NDCs. The company has already disbursed more than 5.7 million+ loans worth Rs. 18,300 Cr+. Featured in Economic Times Best Brand Award at the Best Brands Conclave 2022 Winner of the BFSI Leadership Award at the 5th NBFC100 Tech Summit Winner of Young Indians Delhi Youth Conclave Award Dream Company to Work for in Fintech by HRM Asia Pacific Congress Winner of G20 Digital Innovation Alliance Best Startup in Fintech About Locobuzz: Locobuzz is a global enterprise software company that specialises in digital customer experience management. Its unified CX management platform enables brands to automate the entire customer experience journey, delivering delightful and humane experiences to customers across all customer-facing functions. This helps brands forge stronger relationships with their customers and increase their lifetime value. Using advanced AI, ML, Big Data, and Analytics, the platform empowers brands with real-time data analytics, automation, consumer insights, and end-to-end social media management that includes publishing, listening, analytics and engagement. Trusted by Fortune 500 companies and marquee brands across various industries, Locobuzz operates in seven countries, including India, the USA, the UK, Sri Lanka, and the Middle East and South-East Asia. Learn more at https://locobuzz.com/ Media Contact: Abhishek Kumar Public Relation Manager Email: abhishek.kumar@locobuzz.com Phone: +91 9873370935 Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2337869/LocobuzzFibe.jpg Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2337873/LocobuzzLogo.jpg (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PRNewswire and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR PWR New Delhi, Feb 9 (PTI) President Droupadi Murmu on Friday called for more action to lift some farmers out of poverty and ensure right price for their produce even as the government is making speedy efforts to boost their income. The comments came in the backdrop of thousands of farmers from Delhi-NCR region taking to the streets seeking hiked compensation for lands acquired by the government and for accepting several demands, including enactment of a law to guarantee a minimum support price (MSP) for crops on Thursday. Addressing the 62nd convocation of ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), Murmu said farmers are not only "annadata" but also "jeevandata" who are contributing in making the country's economy strong. "We are aware of problems faced by our farmers. Even today, many farmers are living in poverty. To ensure they get the right price (for their produce) and improve their livelihood, we need to work even harder in this direction," Murmu said. She expressed confidence that farmers will see the development as the country becomes a developed nation by 2047. Stating that the government is making speedy efforts to boost the farmers' income, the President said promotion of new farm methods, expansion of irrigation facilities and schemes like crop insurance, soil health card and Kisan Sampada Yojana -- will play a big role in doubling farmers income. Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda released the IARI's 30 improved crop varieties and publications on the occasion. ICAR Director General Himashu Pathak and IARI Director and Vice Chancellor A K Singh were also present at the convocation held at Pusa complex here. Washington, Feb 9 (AP) Russian President Vladimir Putin used an interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson to urge Washington to recognise Moscow's interests and persuade Ukraine to sit down for talks. Putin also said that Russia stands ready to negotiate a potential prisoner exchange that would free Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who was detained last March on espionage charges he denies, and hinted that Moscow wants the release of its agent imprisoned in Germany. Most of the interview, released Thursday, focused on Ukraine, where the war is nearing the two-year mark. Putin repeated his claim that his invasion of Ukraine, which Kyiv and its allies described as an unprovoked act of aggression, was necessary to protect Russian speakers in Ukraine and prevent the country from posing a threat to Russia by joining NATO. Putin pointed at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's refusal to conduct talks with the Kremlin. He argued that it's up to Washington to stop supplying Ukraine with weapons and convince Kyiv, which he called a U.S. satellite, to sit down for negotiations. We have never refused negotiations, Putin said. You should tell the current Ukrainian leadership to stop and come to a negotiating table. Putin warned that the West will never succeed in inflicting a strategic defeat on Russia in Ukraine and rejected allegations that Russia was harbouring plans to attack Poland or other NATO countries. It was Putin's first interview with a Western media figure since his full-scale invasion of Ukraine two years ago. White House national security spokesman John Kirby tried to minimize the impact of Carlson's interview ahead of its release: Remember, you're listening to Vladimir Putin. And you shouldn't take at face value anything he has to say. Putin has heavily limited his contact with international media since he launched the war in Ukraine in February 2022. Russian authorities have cracked down on independent media, forcing some Russian outlets to close, blocking others and ordering a number of foreign reporters to leave the country. Two journalists working for U.S. news organizations - The Wall Street Journal's Gershkovich and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty's Alsu Kurmasheva - are in jail. Asked by Carlson whether Russia would release Gershkovich, Putin said Moscow is open to talks but repeated that the reporter was charged with espionage, an accusation Gershkovich has denied. He was caught red-handed when he was secretly getting classified information, Putin said of Gershkovich, adding that he doesn't exclude that the reporter could return home. There is no taboo on settling this issue," Putin said. We are ready to solve it but there are certain conditions that are being discussed between special services. I believe an agreement can be reached." He pointed to a man imprisoned in a U.S.-allied country for liquidating a bandit" who killed Russian soldiers during the fighting in the Caucasus: He put our soldiers taken prisoners on a road and then drove a car over their heads. There was a patriot who liquidated him in one of the European capitals. Putin didn't mention names, but he appeared to refer to Vadim Krasikov, a Russian serving a life sentence in Germany after being convicted of the 2019 brazen daylight killing of Zelimkhan Tornike Khangoshvili, a 40-year-old Georgian citizen of Chechen ethnicity. German judges who convicted Krasikov said he had acted on the orders of Russian federal authorities, who provided him with a false identity, a fake passport and the resources to carry out the hit. The Wall Street Journal reaffirmed in a statement that Gershkovich is a journalist, and journalism is not a crime," adding that any portrayal to the contrary is total fiction. "We're encouraged to see Russia's desire for a deal that brings Evan home, and we hope this will lead to his rapid release and return to his family and our newsroom, it said. (AP) NSA NSA Manila, Feb 9 (AP) Combat exercises between the United States and the Philippines involving thousands of forces each year will not be affected by America's focus on the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, a US general said Thursday. The Biden administration has been strengthening an arc of military alliances in the Indo-Pacific region to build deterrence and to better counter China, including in any future confrontation over Taiwan and the disputed South China Sea. But there have been concerns that the war in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas conflict could hamper America's pivot to Asia and the Pacific and divert military resources intended for the region. "Certainly, it does not affect our presence, Maj. Gen. Marcus Evans, commanding general of the U.S. Army's 25th Infantry Division, told The Associated Press in an interview late Thursday when asked to comment on those concerns. "If anything, it drives an increased sense of urgency to focus on these partnerships that we've developed decades ago and it's our responsibility to continue to build on these unique training opportunities., said Evans, who has 12,000 soldiers under his command. Evans, who is based in Hawaii, was in Manila for talks with his Philippine army counterparts ahead of largescale combat maneuvers between the U.S. and Philippine forces. The annual drills include the Salaknib, which are army-to-army drills first held in the country in 2016, and the larger Balikatan, a Tagalog term for shoulder-to-shoulder, which was joined by more than 17,600 military personnel in April of 2023 in their largest combat exercises in decades. Some of last year's Balikatan exercises were held in Philippine coastal areas across the sea from the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea. The expanded combat exercises involving U.S. forces have been criticized by China as a threat to regional unity and peace. Evans said the scope of this year's Salaknib and Balikatan exercises, which would include jungle training, remains consistent with last year. After the exercises, a contingent from a Hawaii-based combat readiness center would take part for the first time in a very focused evaluation exercise to assess the ability of the allied forces to operate together, he said. The unfolding conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, he said, were a source of important lessons for the allied troops in the Philippines. "The two conflicts are continuing to provide us lessons to be learned and to be implemented and to be trained on here in the Philippines, Evans said. As the conflicts unfold, We are actively learning, understanding what are some of the challenges that are being experienced, he said without elaborating. "We talked about this today, our ability to be small and undetectable, our ability to be able to move quickly in this place, our ability to project forward and see and sense are all things that we need to continue to train on, he said. "Collectively, we have a responsibility to make ourselves more ready today than we were yesterday, he said. Last year, Washington repeatedly expressed its support to the Philippines amid a series of increasingly tense territorial faceoffs between Chinese and Philippine ships, including incidents where the Chinese coast guard and suspected militia vessels resorted to water cannons and dangerous blocking maneuvers that caused minor collisions in the disputed South China Sea. Washington last year renewed a warning that it would defend the Philippines, its oldest treaty ally in Asia, if Filipino forces, ships and aircraft come under an armed attack, including in the disputed waters. (AP) NSA NSA By Tisha Felder, Associate Professor of Behavioral Sciences, University of South Carolina; and Joynelle Jackson, Associate Professor of Nursing, University of South Carolina Columbia, Feb 9 (The Conversation) Four babies are born every second in the world, and there are only two options for their first food at birth: human milk or formula. Global and US health authorities agree, however, that human milk provides the optimal nutrition for infants. The World Health Organisation and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of an infants life. Following the introduction of solid foods, these organisations recommend continued breastfeeding up to two years and beyond. Human milk can be given to infants directly through breastfeeding or by pumping or expressing human milk into a cup or bottle. The health benefits of breastfeeding and human milk for infants stem from its composition, which includes vitamins, minerals and antibodies that can prompt its composition to change over time to meet the growing infants needs. The dynamic nature of human milk leads to commonly known benefits, such as lower risks of ear and gastrointestinal infections among infants who are breastfed. However, there are other benefits for infants that many people arent aware of, as well as for the breastfeeding mother and society. We are womens health scholars with combined professional expertise in maternal obstetrics nursing and public health. Together, we co-founded Mocha Mamas Milk, a research and support initiative focused on improving breastfeeding among Black families in South Carolina, a state where just 55.1% of Black infants are breastfed, compared with 75.2% of white infants. Human milk is personalised medicine that can benefit both the mother and infant. We are personally and professionally passionate about this because many people are not aware that some of these benefits can save lives and reduce persistent health disparities. Lesser-known benefits of breastfeeding for infants One significant benefit of breastfeeding not widely known by the public is its ability to lower the risk of sudden infant death syndrome, or SIDS. SIDS, sometimes referred to as crib death, is the unexplained death of a baby, usually under 1 year of age. Some risk factors include stomach- or side-lying sleep, low birth weight, sleeping on a soft surface or overheating. A large analysis of studies found that infants who received any human milk for at least two months had nearly a 50% lower risk of SIDS. This reduction is notable for two reasons. First, the reduction in risk occurs about 60 days following birth, which is several months before the six-month exclusive breastfeeding guideline is met. Second, the protection from SIDS was the same for infants who were exclusively breastfed compared to infants who may have received formula in addition to any breastfeeding. In addition, breastfeeding can significantly protect premature infants those born before 37 weeks of pregnancy from developing a condition called necrotising enterocolitis, an inflammation of the intestines that can be fatal. While this condition is rare in full-term infants, it occurs in 5% to 15% of preterm infants. Benefits for mom, too Breastfeeding also provides important benefits for the mother, such as reducing risks of diabetes and breast and ovarian cancers. Breastfeeding for any length of time compared to never is associated with a 10% decrease in hormone receptor-negative breast cancers, which are more common in younger women. These cancers cannot be treated with hormonal therapy and often grow faster than the more commonly diagnosed hormone receptor-positive breast cancers. The reduction in risk from breastfeeding is even greater for Black women, who are more likely to be diagnosed with these hormone receptor-negative breast cancers and have worse prognoses and fewer treatment options. Any way of reducing the risk for Black women is critically important because, compared to white women, Black women are 40% more likely to die from breast cancer, yet 4% less likely to be diagnosed with the disease. There is also growing research suggesting the positive impact of breastfeeding on a mothers mental health. One possible reason for this is that oxytocin often called the love hormone because of its association with bonding plays a role in the maternal-infant bonding process. After delivery, the release of oxytocin causes human milk to flow a process called the letdown reflex and initiate breastfeeding. This release of milk can satisfy the new baby and leave the mom with warm and fuzzy feelings toward her baby. Research also suggests that breastfeeding can reduce the risk of depression. A 2021 study also found that the longer a woman breastfed, the lower her risk for postpartum depression. Closing racial gaps Despite the benefits of breastfeeding to both infants and mothers, few US families are able to sustain breastfeeding over time. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention 2022 Breastfeeding Report Card the latest data that is currently available shows that more than 80% of infants start out receiving human milk, yet just over a quarter of them are exclusively breastfed through six months. Black infant-mother pairs not only have the lowest breastfeeding rates in South Carolina, but they also have the lowest rates nationally, compared to other US racial and ethnic groups. More recent data from the National Vital Statistics System of US infants born in 2020 and 2021, shows that only 74.5% of Black infants were breastfed, compared with non-Hispanic Asian infants (90.1%), non-Hispanic white infants (84.0%) and Hispanic infants (86.8%), based on analysis of birth records collected by the CDC. Black infants are also more likely to die from SIDS and to be born prematurely. So increasing breastfeeding among Black families could lead to saving significantly more Black infant lives. The Southeast US is where the widest racial gaps in breastfeeding exist. In addition, infants living in Southern states are less likely to achieve national goals for breastfeeding at 6 or 12 months old compared to infants living in other regions of the country. Removing barriers to breastfeeding Reducing barriers is critical to closing racial and geographic gaps in breastfeeding and allowing US mothers and their infants the opportunity to benefit from the life-saving qualities of human milk. Studies show that addressing work-related barriers by making investments in paid family leave, for example, could increase exclusive breastfeeding rates by 15%. The US is one of the only countries in the world that does not provide national paid family leave. Workplaces that support breastfeeding breaks and provide safe and clean spaces for expressing and storing human milk are also important in promoting breastfeeding. Given that US womens labour force participation rates are at a record high, the importance of reducing barriers in the workplace cannot be overstated. The US Agency for International Development estimates that every US dollar invested in breastfeeding yields $35 in economic returns. Societal investments in breastfeeding-friendly workplace policies will not only yield cost savings and extend breastfeeding rates, but they will shift the burden of breastfeeding from simply being an individual choice to being a public health priority. (The Conversation) SCY SCY Kuala Lumpur, Feb 9 (AP) Malaysia's top court Friday struck down over a dozen Shariah-based state laws, saying they encroached on federal authority, a decision denounced by Islamists who fear it could undermine religious courts across the country. In an 8-1 ruling, the nine-member Federal Court panel invalidated 16 laws made by the opposition-run Kelantan state government, which imposed punishments for offenses from sodomy, sexual harassment, incest, and cross dressing to giving false evidence. The court said that the state could not make Islamic laws on those topics because they are covered by Malaysian federal law. Malaysia has a dual-track legal system, with Shariah covering personal and family matters for Muslims, alongside civil laws. Ethnic Malays all of whom are considered Muslim in Malaysian law make up two-thirds of Malaysia's 33 million people, with large Chinese and Indian minorities. Shariah is Islamic law, based on the Quran and a set of scriptures known as the hadith. The court challenge was filed in 2020 by two Muslim women from Kelantan, a rural northeastern state whose population is 97% Muslim. Kelantan has been governed by the conservative Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party, or PAS, since 1990. Hundreds of PAS supporters gathered outside the court Friday calling for the protection of Sharia laws. We are very sad today. This a black Friday for Islamic Shariah laws, PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan told reporters outside the court building after the ruling. When Shariah laws in one locality become invalid, this means that Shariah laws in other states may now face the same risk. The PAS is a member of the opposition bloc and the single biggest party in Parliament, as well as governing four of Malaysia's 13 states. The party favours tough Islamic legal norms, once seeking to implement a criminal code known as hudud that includes penalties such as amputations for theft and stoning to death for adultery. This was blocked by the federal government. The issue could be a challenge for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who is struggling to win Malay support after taking office following 2022 general election. Mohamad Na'im Mokhtar, the minister in charge of religious affairs, promised that the court ruling won't affect the position of Shariah courts. He urged Muslims to stay calm and said the government will study the the ruling. He said in a statement that ongoing efforts to empower Shariah courts will continue. Anwar has also disputed PAS's assertion that the case was an attack on Shariah laws. He has said the the root issue was about state jurisdiction and that the matter shouldn't be politicised. (AP) SCY SCY Islamabad, Feb 9 (PTI) The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) on Friday said its supremo Nawaz Sharif is set to deliver a "victory speech" after the final results of the general elections and that it is in contact with the independent candidates backed by jailed former premier Imran Khan's party. Pakistan on Thursday held the general elections marred by allegations of rigging, sporadic violence and a countrywide mobile phone shutdown. Pakistan's authorities were moving at a snail's pace to announce the election results and the first official results were announced by the Election Commission of Pakistan after facing a barrage of criticism by the parties, especially by Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) which accused that its mandate was being stolen. Both PTI and PML-N are claiming victory in the elections. Sharif, 74, a three-time former prime minister, is hoping to secure a record third term in the elections with the backing of the powerful Army. Taking to X, formerly Twitter, PML-N Chief Organiser Maryam Nawaz, Sharif's daughter, wrote: "As opposed to the false perception deliberately built by a section of media last night, PML-N, Alhamdulillah emerging as the single largest party in the centre and Punjab. " "Some results awaited. MNS (Mian Nawaz Sharif) will head to PML-N HQ for the victory speech as soon as the final results are received. InshaAllah. Stay tuned," she said. Meanwhile, PML-N leader Ishaq Dar said that the independent candidates, who are emerging victorious in the 2024 general elections, are in contact with the party. "The independents have contacted us and they will join any party in the next 72 hours as per the Constitution," the former finance minister told Geo News on Friday. Dar said that the PML-N cannot force anyone to join the party, adding that they are being contacted by candidates who are willing to join their party. The ex-finance minister added: "If independents did not join any political party then they will lose reserved seats. The independents are not even close to PML-N's success in Punjab." In total 266 National Assembly seats were up for grabs in Thursday's election out of 336, but polling was postponed on at least one seat after a candidate was killed in a gun attack in Bajaur. Another 60 seats are reserved for women and 10 for minorities and are allotted to the winning parties based on proportional representation. Dar claimed that the Shehbaz Sharif-led party has the majority in Punjab and has won the majority of the National Assembly seats in the elections. "According to the results that were announced till 3am in the night, the PML-N was in the lead with more seats. And even when the results were slow, the PML-N was ahead," he claimed. PML-N supremo Sharif had said that even if his party had a majority, he would still join hands with other parties, said Dar. "We are hopeful to form a government in the centre and Punjab and if someone else forms a government, then we will accept it as well," he said. Perth, Feb 9 (PTI) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday met his Australian counterpart Penny Wong and discussed the bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership, the Indo-Pacific region, situation in West Asia and other regional and global topics. Jaishankar is in the Australian city of Perth to attend a two-day conference on the Indian Ocean beginning Friday. Jaishankar would address the inaugural session of the conference, along with Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Australian Foreign Minister Wong and her Singaporean counterpart Vivian Balakrishnan. "Delighted to meet FM @SenatorWong of Australia in Perth today as we gather for the 7th Indian Ocean Conference. Good exchange on our comprehensive strategic partnership and convergence on matters related to the Indian Ocean. Also discussed the Indo-Pacific, situation in West Asia and other regional and global topics," Jaishankar posted on X along with some photographs of the meeting. The 'Indian Ocean Conference' is a flagship consultative forum for countries in the region, organised annually by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in association with the India Foundation. The seventh edition of the conference is being held in Perth on February 9 and 10 in association with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade of the Australian government along with Singapore's S Rajaratnam School of International Studies and Perth-US Asia Centre, the MEA said in a statement on Thursday in New Delhi ahead of Jaishankar's travel to the Australian city. The theme of this edition of the conference is "Towards a Stable and Sustainable Indian Ocean". The conference will bring together delegations led by ministers from over 22 countries and senior officials from 16 countries and six multilateral organisations, the MEA said. "The conference will also witness the participation of over 400 social and corporate leaders, policy practitioners, scholars, professionals, and media personnel from about 40 countries," it said. Since its debut in 2016 in Singapore, the Indian Ocean Conference has played an important role in bringing together countries and principal maritime partners of the region together on a common platform to deliberate upon the prospects of regional cooperation for Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR), it added. Washington, Feb 9 (PTI) Former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley, the only Republican candidate left in the race for the party's nomination against Donald Trump, has said that the US would have a female president in 2024, and it would be either her or Kamala Harris, both of them Indian-origin. After wins on Thursday in Nevada and the US Virgin Islands, Trump remains undefeated in the primary race. Haley has said she will stay in the race for the White House even after the embarrassment in Nevada and with polling showing her trailing badly in her home state of South Carolina, which holds the next Republican primary on February 24. This is about the fact that we are going to have a female president of the United States, and either it will be me or it will be Kamala Harris, the 52-year-old Indian-American Republican politician told Fox News. Haley said she voted for Trump twice and is proud to serve in his administration as the UN ambassador. But chaos follows him we cant be a country in disarray and a world on fire and go through four more years of chaos. We wont survive it, she said. She said: Trump cannot win a general election. Thats a fact. We lost in 2018. We lost in 2020. We lost in 2022... hes got a year's worth of court cases yet... Everything he touches is chaos, and we continue to lose. Former president Trump, 77, won Nevadas Republican presidential caucuses on Thursday after he was the only major candidate to compete. Haley skipped the caucuses, calling it an unfair process favouring Trump. Haley said, We knew that it was rigged from the start. In separate interviews, Haley emphasised that we knew months ago that we werent going to spend a day or a dollar in Nevada, because it wasnt worth it. And so we didnt even count Nevada. That wasnt anything we were looking at. She reiterated her focus is on the next major contest in the GOP nominating calendar the primary in her home state of South Carolina on February 24 as well as on Super Tuesday. Michigan holds its primary on February 27, three days after the South Carolina Republican primary. As many as 15 states, including California and Texas, hold their contests a week later, on Super Tuesday. Haley was born Nimarata Nikki Randhawa in South Carolina to immigrant Sikh parents from Amritsar, Punjab. Kamala scripted history by becoming the first woman, as well as the first African-American and Asian-American, to be elected US Vice President, and assumed office on January 20, 2021. The 59-year-old was born in Oakland, California, to a Jamaican American father and a Tamil Indian mother. Islamabad, Feb 9 (PTI) Jailed former prime minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party on Friday ruled out forging an alliance with the Pakistan Peoples Party and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, saying it is in a position to form a federal government on its own. Independent candidates backed by Khan's party have won 55 out of the 139 National Assembly results announced by the election commission so far following unusual delays, leading to allegations of vote rigging. The PML-N has bagged 43 seats while PPP has won 35. Overall, 169 seats are needed to secure a simple majority out of its total 336 seats, which include the reserved slots for women and minorities. "We are not in contact with PPP or PML-N," PTI chairman Barrister Gohar Khan was quoted as saying by the Geo News. He claimed that his party was winning 150 National Assembly seats and would be able to achieve the required number of seats to form government at the Centre. "We are not intending to form a coalition government with PPP and PML-N," he said. "We will form the government at the Centre and Punjab, he added. He said the PTI has a clear lead in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and will form a government there as well. "PTI will remain in Parliament and will play its role," he added. He said that independent candidates belong to PTI and asserted they would not join any party against party directives amid fears of horse-trading. His statement comes soon after PML-N leader Ishaq Dar claimed that independent candidates, who have won, are in contact with his party. "The independents have contacted us and they will join any party in the next 72 hours as per the Constitution," said the former finance minister while speaking to Geo News on Friday as the election results continue to pour in. Dar said that the PML-N cannot force anyone to join the party, adding that they are being contacted by candidates who are willing to join their party. Rafah (Gaza Strip), Feb 9 (AP) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he has ordered the military to prepare a plan to evacuate the population of Rafah ahead of an expected Israeli invasion of the southern Gaza town. Netanyahu made the announcement Friday following international criticism of Israel's plan to invade the crowded town on Egypt's border. Israel says Rafah is the last remaining Hamas stronghold and it needs to send in troops to complete its war plan against the Islamic militant group. But an estimated 1.5 million Palestinians have crammed into the town after fleeing fighting elsewhere in Gaza. Netanyahu said a massive operation is needed in Rafah. He said he asked security officials to present a double plan that would include the evacuation of civilians and a military operation to collapse remaining Hamas militant units. Earlier Friday, Israel bombed targets in Rafah. The attack took place hours after Biden administration officials and aid agencies warned Israel against expanding its Gaza ground offensive to the town where more than half of the territory's 2.3 million people have sought refuge. Airstrikes overnight and into Friday hit two residential buildings in Rafah, while two other sites were bombed in central Gaza, including one that damaged a kindergarten-turned-shelter for displaced Palestinians. Twenty-two people were killed, according to AP journalists who saw the bodies arriving at hospitals. U.S. President Joe Biden said Thursday that Israel's conduct in the war, ignited by a deadly Oct. 7 Hamas attack, is over the top, the harshest U.S. criticism yet of its close ally and an expression of concern about a soaring civilian death toll in Gaza. The Health Ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said Friday that the overall Palestinian death toll is now approaching 28,000, with about two-thirds women and children. The count does not distinguish between civilians and combatants. Israel's stated intentions to expand its ground offensive to Rafah also prompted an unusual public backlash in Washington. We have yet to see any evidence of serious planning for such an operation, Vedant Patel, a State Department spokesman, said Thursday. Going ahead with such an offensive now, with no planning and little thought in an area where there is sheltering of a million people would be a disaster. John Kirby, the National Security Council spokesperson, said an Israel ground offensive in Rafah is not something we would support. The comments signaled intensifying U.S. friction with Netanyahu, who pushed a message of total victory in the war this week, at a time when U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was in Israel to press for a cease-fire deal in exchange for the release of dozens of Hamas-held hostages. Aid agency officials also sounded warnings over the prospect of a Rafah offensive. We need Gaza's last remaining hospitals, shelters, markets and water systems to stay functional, said Catherine Russell, head of the U.N. children's agency UNICEF. Without them, hunger and disease will skyrocket, taking more child lives. With the war now in its fifth month, Israeli ground forces are still focusing on the city of Khan Younis, just north of Rafah, but Netanyahu has repeatedly said Rafah will be next, creating panic among hundreds of thousands of displaced people. Netanyahu's words have also alarmed Egypt, which has said that any ground operation in the Rafah area or mass displacement across the border would undermine its 40-year-old peace treaty with Israel. The mostly sealed Gaza-Egypt border is also the main entry point for humanitarian aid. AIRSTRIKES OVERNIGHTShortly after midnight Friday, a residential building was struck near Rafah's Kuwaiti Hospital, killing five people from the al-Sayed family, including three children and a woman. A second Rafah strike killed three more people. Another overnight strike, in the central town of Deir al-Balah, claimed nine lives. Also in central Gaza, a strike hit near a kindergarten-turned-shelter, damaging the building. It killed five and wounded several more people. Witnesses said shelter residents were asleep at the time. A woman, carrying a small girl in her arms, shouted as she arrived at the local Al Aqsa Martyrs' Hospital: What can we do? This is the work of the coward Zionist enemy that chooses innocent civilians. This girl is firing rockets at the Jews? May God help us. Some of the wounded children were treated while lying on the floor. More than half of Gaza's population has fled to Rafah, heeding Israeli evacuation orders ahead of the military's continuously expanding ground offensive. Evacuation orders now cover two-thirds of the besieged territory, though an estimated 300,000 Palestinians remain in the northern half of Gaza, which civilians were ordered to leave early on in the war. Even in areas of refuge, such as Rafah, Israel routinely launches air strikes against what it says are Hamas targets. It holds the militant group responsible for civilian casualties because it operates from civilian areas. WORKING FOR A CEASE-FIREIsrael's 4-month-old air and ground offensive among the most destructive in recent history has killed 27,947 Palestinians and wounded more than 67,000, local health officials said Friday. The war has driven most people from their homes and pushed a quarter of the population toward starvation. Biden has said said he continues to work tirelessly to press Israel and Hamas to agree on an extended pause in fighting. A truce would be linked to the release of dozens of hostages, out of some 250 seized Oct. 7, and still believed to be in Hamas captivity. Netanyahu has rejected Hamas' demands for a hostage deal, which includes an end to the war and the release of hundreds of veteran Palestinian prisoners serving long sentences in Israel for deadly attacks carried out as part of the long-running conflict. Netanyahu dismissed Hamas' demands as delusional, even as Blinken said he believes continued negotiations, through mediators Egypt and Qatar, are possible. Israel's war goals appear increasingly elusive, as Hamas reemerges in parts of northern Gaza, which was the first target of the offensive and has seen widespread destruction. Israel has only rescued one hostage, while Hamas says several have been killed in airstrikes or failed rescue missions. (AP) AMS Washington, Feb 9 (PTI) The US is looking forward to timely, complete results that reflect the will of the Pakistani people, a State Department spokesperson said on Friday, amidst allegations of vote rigging in the general elections held on Thursday. According to the latest Election Commission of Pakistan data, results of 224 constituencies out of 265 were declared. Independent candidates (mostly supported by jailed ex-premier Imran Khan's party) bagged 92 seats while Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz got 63 and Pakistan Peoples Party 50. Smaller parties secured 19 seats. "We now look forward to timely, complete results that reflect the will of the Pakistani people," State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement. "The US is prepared to work with the next Pakistani government, regardless of political party, to advance our shared interests," he said, adding that the US looks forward to bolstering its partnership by supporting Pakistan's economy through trade and investment. Millions of Pakistanis, he said, made their voices heard by voting in the elections on February 8. "We commend Pakistani poll workers, civil society, journalists and election observers for their work to protect and uphold Pakistan's democratic and electoral institutions. We now look forward to timely, complete results that reflect the will of the Pakistani people, Miller said. The US joins credible international and local election observers in their assessment that these elections included undue restrictions on freedoms of expression, association, and peaceful assembly, he said. The US condemns electoral violence, restrictions on the exercise of human rights and fundamental freedoms, including attacks on media workers, and restrictions on access to the Internet and telecommunication services, he said and expressed concern about allegations of interference in the electoral process. "Claims of interference or fraud should be fully investigated, Miller said. The United States, he said, will continue to support Pakistan strengthening its democratic institutions, engage through the US-Pakistan Green Alliance Framework, broaden people-to-people ties, and promote human rights including freedom of expression. We are also committed to strengthening our security cooperation and creating an environment of safety and security that affords the Pakistani people the peace, democracy, and progress they deserve, Miller said. Lahore, Feb 9 (PTI) In an indirect goodwill message to India, Pakistan's former premier Nawaz Sharif on Friday said that his government would try to improve relations with the neighbouring countries. Sharifs Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) technically emerged the single largest party in the National Assembly despite the fact that the number of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf supported independent candidates was higher than any political party. "We would improve ties with the world and with our neighbours and try to solve all issues with them (neighbours)," the 74-year-old former three-time premier said. He asked his supporters if they agree with his point of view (regarding ties with neighbours), and hundreds of supporters present to hear him apparently backed him with a roar. While Sharif stopped mentioning India directly in his speech, the use of word "neighbours" could hardly be missed as Sharif in his previous tenures also tried to mend ties with India. However, terror attacks on Indian defence installations by Pakistan-based terrorists derailed the Indo-Pak relations. Sharif made the speech as the complete result of the 265 contested seats of the National Assembly was still awaited. According to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), the results of 224 constituencies have been declared, showing that independents won 92 seats, PML-N 63, PPP 50, Muttahida Qaumi Movement 12 and other parties got 7 seats. The independents were supported by the PTI and they could join any party after elections except the PTI because its intra-party elections were declared null and void and it was deprived of a common symbol before elections. Kohima, Feb 9 (PTI) The Nagaland government has decided to hold a meeting with tribal bodies and civil society organisations on the Centres decision to fence the Indo-Myanmar border and abolish the Free Movement Regime (FRM) between the two countries. Interacting with media persons on the sidelines of a programme in Phek district on Friday, Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton said that the state cabinet took the decision on February 8. Asked about the date of the meeting, Patton said it would be held at the earliest. Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio had recently said that consultations with civil society organisations are required before implementation of the Centres decision, as many Naga people of the state have properties on the other side of the international border. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday announced that the Central government decided to fence the over 1600 km stretch of the Indo-Myanmar border falling in the North East, ending the Free Movement Regime up to 16 km. Four northeastern states - Arunachal, Manipur, Meghalaya and Nagaland - share a border with Myanmar. The NSCN-IM which is negotiating with the Centre on the Naga political issue has stated that the decision cannot be accepted. Various other Naga civil societies, tribal organisations, Naga political groups and also Chief Angh (King) of Longwa Village in Mon district, whose house has be divided into two nations, have also objected to the decision. The Naga Students Federation (NSF), a major student body in the state, on Thursday appealed to the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to intervene on the matter. Jimmy Sengenberger is an investigative journalist, public speaker, and host of The Jimmy Sengenberger Show Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. on News/Talk 710 KNUS. Reach Jimmy online at Jimmysengenberger.com or on X (formerly Twitter) @SengCenter. Agartala, Feb 9 PTI) Leader of Opposition in Tripura Assembly, Animesh Debbarma has urged Chief Minister Manik Saha to allow students to write their Kokborok papers in Bengali and Roman scripts in the class 10 and 12 board examinations. The class 10 and 12 examinations conducted by the Tripura Board of Secondary Education (TBSE) will begin from March 1. "It is very unfortunate the board sticks to its decision on allowing the students to write their Kokborok papers only in Bengali script citing resource constraints. The board had allowed the students to write Kokborok in Bengali and Roman scripts for 15 to 17 years. It means they have facilities to evaluate Kokborok papers in both languages", he told reporters on Thursday. Expressing apprehension about agitation if the students are not allowed to write their Kokborok paper in Roman script in the upcoming board's examinations, Debbarma urged the chief minister to look into the matter and allow the students to write their Kokborok paper in Roman and Bengali script as it used to be a practice by the board earlier. "As chief minister and also the Education minister you will be responsible if anything goes wrong during examinations. There may be agitation, movement or road blockade by angry students. There is also apprehension of a law and order situation on the script issue", he said. Earlier, Tipra Motha supremo Pradyot Kishore Manikya had demanded the removal of board president Dhananjoy Gonchowdhury if students were not allowed to write their Kokborok paper in both Bengali and Roman script. Gangtok, Feb 9 (PTI) Senior Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) leader and former state minister Sher Bahadur Subedi died on Friday after a battle with cancer, his family said. He was 66. Subedi is survived by his wife, son and daughter. He was a trusted aide of former chief minister Pawan Kumar Chamling and held transport, forest and rural development portfolios in the previous SDF government. Subedi was a three-term MLA from Geyzing-Bermoik constituency in West Sikkim. Condoling Subedi's death, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang said in a social media post, "I am deeply saddened to learn about the demise of former minister Shri S B Subedi. My heartfelt condolences go out to the grieving family and friends during this difficult time and I pray for the departed soul to rest in eternal peace. Om Shanti." New Delhi, Feb 9 (PTI) The Lok Sabha will have a discussion on the construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya on Saturday, the last day of the Budget session of Parliament. Senior BJP leader Satyapal Singh will initiate the discussion on the construction of historic Shri Ram Temple and Pran Pratishtha of Shri Ramlala, according to a Lok Sabha Secretariat bulletin. Shiv Sena member Shrikant Shinde too has given a notice for a discussion on the issue. The Budget session of Parliament, the last of the 17th Lok Sabha, began on January 31 and will conclude on Saturday. The Lok Sabha elections are expected to be held in April-May this year. The members of the ruling alliance are expected to praise Prime Minister Narendra Modi for ensuring the construction of the Ayodhya Ram temple after a protracted legal battle. New Delhi, Feb 9 (PTI) The Congress on Friday said former prime ministers P V Narasimha Rao and Charan Singh and Green Revolution pioneer M S Swaminathan were, are and will always be 'Bharat ke Ratna' as their contribution was unprecedented and respected by all Indians. However, the opposition party also attacked the Modi government, saying it is "silent" on giving legal status of minimum support price to farmers based on the Swaminathan formula. The Congress' reaction came after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that Rao, Singh and Swaminathan will be conferred the Bharat Ratna. Asked about the Bharat Ratna announcements, specifically for Rao, Sonia Gandhi in a brief response outside Parliament said, "I welcome them... why not?". In a post on X, Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh said, "Shri PV Narasimha Rao, Chaudhary Charan Singh and Dr. MS Swaminathan were, are and will always be the 'Bharat ke Ratna'. Their contribution was unprecedented, which every Indian respects." "The Modi government is silent on giving legal status of minimum support price to farmers based on Dr. Swaminathan's formula. Due to the stubbornness of Prime Minister Modi, 700 farmers were martyred during the movement, but the government broke its promise to the farmers. Even today the farmers are ready to march to Delhi, but the government is not listening," Ramesh said. "Providing justice to farmers is one of the main objectives of the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. Our demand for 'Kisan Nyay (justice to farmers)' is that a legal guarantee of giving minimum support price to farmers should be given on the basis of the Swaminathan formula. This will be a true tribute to former prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh ji and Swaminathan ji," he said. The government had earlier named former Bihar chief minister Karpoori Thakur, a champion of backward empowerment, and L K Advani, a founding BJP member credited with charting the course of its rise through the 1990s, for the country's highest civilian honour. At five, one more than the four announced in 1999, this is the maximum number of Bharat Ratnas announced for a year. Noida, Feb 9 (PTI) A day after an unsuccessful bid to march to the Parliament, protesting farmers were Friday back outside offices of local authorities in Noida and Greater Noida for a sit-in. The protestors, led by the Bharatiya Kisan Parishad (BKP), said they will continue the protest as before and once again attempt to march to Delhi after the Budget Session of Parliament is over. On Thursday, thousands of villagers, including women and the elderly, joined the march to press for their demands for hiked compensation and developed plots in lieu of their land acquired by local development authorities in Noida and Greater Noida in the past. The protest march also badly impacted traffic in parts of Delhi-NCR. The day-long protest was followed by a meeting between a delegation of the protestors and the Gautam Buddh Nagar police. The meeting, however, yielded no result. "The farmers went for the meeting which continued for two hours. However, only police officers and the district magistrate were present there. No officials of the UP government or the local authorities were there for the meeting, so nothing substantial came out of it," a BKP member told PTI. A senior police officer, privy to the closed-door meeting, told PTI that the delegation of protestors was told to come back with a "proposal" of what they want now and accordingly the next step would be decided. The BKP member, led by Sukhbir Yadav 'Khalifa', said all issues are known to the UP government. "We were told during the meeting that a high-level meeting can be possible only after the Parliament and UP Vidhan Sabha, both currently in session, are over, which is likely by February 11. After that either we'll have a meeting or we'll again try to march to Parliament," he added. Farmer groups in Noida and Greater Noida have been protesting since December 2023, with demands for greater compensation and developed plots against their lands acquired in the past by the local development authorities, which function under the UP government. Kota (Raj), Feb 9 (PTI) A teenager in Rajasthan's Kota has built an all-purpose robot to help farmers assess soil and crop health, their water needs, and detect pests. Aryan Singh, 17, built the AgRobot at his school's Atal Tinkering Lab, a central government initiative to help school children hone their building skills. The son of a farmer, Aryan spent four years building the robot which won him the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar under science and technology category. Aryan was the only boy from Rajasthan among nine boys and ten girls from 18 states and Union Territories who won awards. He got the award from President Droupadi Murmu in New Delhi on January 22 this year. "I belong to a farming family, grew up watching my grandparents and parents working in the field. While studying in class 10, I conceived the idea of developing a multi-task device and later developed a prototype that can reduce farmers' labour in the field," Aryan told PTI. The boy sent his proposal to NITI Ayog's Atal Innovation Mission and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, who is an MP from Rajasthan, as well as, then Union agriculture minister Narendra Singh Tomer, who all praised his device. "The AgRobot is able to perform multiple tasks like cutting, irrigation, loading, soil-tracking etc," Aryan said, adding, he has received over 15 national and international awards and appreciation for his innovation. Though building the prototype cost him Rs 50,000, "it will cost less when manufactured in large numbers," he said. The boy, as well as his mentor at SR Public School in Kota, are hopeful that AgRobot would hit the market within a year. The initial funding for the robot came from iStart, a flagship initiative of the Rajasthan government for startups. "They incubated me and I got a place to work, labs and support from them," Aryan said. AgRobot is fitted with cameras to analyse crop's condition. There is also a dropper on the top which helps spread seeds and irrigation in the field, reducing manual labour for the farmer. The robot is also equipped with soil moisture sensors that help farmers assess the soil health and look for any pests in them. The robot uses Artificial Intelligence which is trained on different farming data, he said. It can also be controlled remotely. "Using IoT, we have made the robot remotely controllable. For instance, if you want to use the robot from Jaipur city and your crops are in Kota, you can simply log in to the application that I have developed and use it," Aryan said. The robot is fully run on solar energy with the help of a piezoelectric panel installed in it that uses pressure to produce electricity. "For instance, the pressure created on the tyres and the panel will produce electricity that can be stored in the batteries for use when the sun is down," he said. The boy added, "So this creates a chain of power, once the solar energy is exhausted you can switch to a piezoelectric panel. The robot will not need any external source whatsoever to work." Prakesh Soni, his mentor at ATL, said Aryan was moved to build the prototype after his family facing troubles farming, and the lab helped him convert his idea into AgRobot. "Today, this device is so helpful that his father, sitting at home, operates through internet all the works in agriculture field, like switching on or off a water pump for irrigation in field, assessing amount of water, measure release of water in accordance with requirement of particular crops, detect infected and wormed crops, monitor andguard the field and there are several others," Soni, a physics lecturer, said. SR Public School Director Ankit Rathi said the robot is just the beginning for the talented boy. "It is in the prototype stage but it will soon be taken into business proposition and I am receiving offers for investment in manufacturing of AgRobot," Rathi, who did his BTech from IIT-Bombay, said. "Aryan started this project in 2020 and every year he worked on improving on it and modifying it," he added. Noida/Delhi, Feb 8 (PTI) Thousands of farmers from around 100 villages of Noida and Greater Noida on Thursday took to the streets seeking hiked compensation for lands acquired by the government, bringing traffic to a standstill in several parts of Delhi-NCR as they made an unsuccessful bid to march towards Parliament. The farmers have decided to continue their protest outside the offices of the Noida and Greater Noida authorities in Uttar Pradesh's Gautam Buddh Nagar district. Their decision came after a meeting with police and the district administration, which, they said, did not yield any outcome. "The Parliament session ends this weekend and if we get no resolution to our issues in the next meeting, we will attempt a Delhi march once again," a Bharatiya Kisan Parishad (BKP) member told PTI on Thursday night. Earlier in the day, barricades were set up at the Chilla border with Noida Police on one side and the Delhi Police on the other side to prevent protesters, who started their march from the Mahamaya Flyover in Noida around 12 pm, from entering the national capital. Several police personnel were in anti-riot gears equipped with tear gas shells and water cannons, even as personnel from the Rapid Action Force and Uttar Pradesh Provincial Armed Constabulary were deployed at the Chilla border, officials said. Thousands of villagers, including women and the elderly, joined the march, to press for their demands for hiked compensation and developed plots in lieu of their land acquired by local development authorities in Noida and Greater Noida in the past. Farmer leader Rakesh Tikait joined the protesters in Greater Noida in the afternoon where his Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) members have been protesting outside the local authority office. In Noida, the protesters were led by the BKP, whose activists have been holding camps outside the local authority office since December 2023. The farmers from around 100 villages were led by the BKP after they assembled at the Mahamaya Flyover in Noida around 12 pm on Thursday, with a proposed plan to march towards the Parliament. Later, a scuffle broke out between several villagers and security personnel as they tried to detain local farmer leaders, including BKP leader Sukhbir Yadav 'Khalifa', near the Dalit Prerna Sthal. In the night, a meeting among government officials, police and a delegation of protesting farmers was organised in Noida. A BKP member told PTI that the farmers' delegation comprising 20 members led by BKP leader Sukhbir Yadav 'Khalifa' attended the meeting with senior police officers and District Magistrate Manish Verma. "The meeting did not have any outcome as such because representatives of local authorities and Uttar Pradesh government were not there. Only the police commissioner, two joint commissioners and the district magistrate were there," the BKP member said. "The police as such have no role in this issue. However, it has been decided that a meeting would once again be held with mediation by the police commissioner. The date for it is yet to be decided," he said. The protest by farmers would continue outside the offices of the Noida Authority, the Greater Noida Authority and the NTPC, he told PTI after the meeting, which started around 9 pm and ended around 11 pm. In Greater Noida, BKU leader Tikait called for a 'Bharat Bandh' on February 16 citing a host of issues impacting farmers, youth, daily wagers, among others. "All sections of society should come together and work towards making the Bharat Bandh on 16th February a success for their pending demands," Tikait said in a post in Hindi on X. The protest march also slowed down movement of vehicular traffic at various routes, including the key stretches of Noida-Greater Noida Expressway and DND Flyway and also had a ripple effect in Delhi. Motorists spent hours in the crawling traffic at the Delhi-Noida link road near Mayur Vihar in Delhi, as police personnel with heavy equipment were on alert to deal with any eventuality in case protesting farmers reached there. At the border, heavy duty bulldozers, backhoe machines, riot control vehicles and water cannons were parked strategically, officials said. According to the Delhi Traffic Police, heavy traffic was also witnessed at DND, Chilla, and Ghazipur borders. At Sarita Vihar in south Delhi, several vehicles going towards Noida through Kalindi Kunj were stuck in the jam, the officials said. The police also issued a traffic advisory, cautioning the commuters against diversions on some routes in the twin cities in view of the farmers' movement on tractors. Between 12 pm and 5 pm, heavy traffic jams were witnessed on the Noida-Greater Noida Expressway, DND loop, Kanlindi Kunj bridge, around Dalit Prerna Sthal, Atta Chowk and Rajnigandha Chowk in Noida. Similar snarls were witnessed at Pari Chowk in Greater Noida, with the police saying that they were making efforts to ensure smooth traffic movement. Ahead of the protest by the farmers in Noida and Greater Noida, the Gautam Buddh Nagar Police had imposed CrPC Section 144 for Wednesday and Thursday. PTI KIS NIT COR BM VIT SLB KVK KIS ANB ANB New Delhi, Feb 8 (PTI) A parliamentary panel has observed that there are a total of 45 sanctioned projects under the Ministry of Tourism's PRASHAD scheme out of which "only 20 have been completed", noting that its "progress is very slow". The committee has also recommended that the Ministry of Tourism may "evolve its own mechanism" to collect data on the arrival of foreign and domestic tourists and all other data relevant to the tourism sector. The report of the panel on the Action Taken by the Government on the observations of the committee contained in its Report on Demands for Grants (2023-24) of Ministry of Tourism was presented in Rajya Sabha on Thursday. The Ministry of Tourism had launched the Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD) and Swadesh Darshan schemes in 2014-15 for developing infrastructure at tourist destinations, including religious sites, across the country. On the PRASHAD scheme, the panel observed in its report that "there are a total of 45 sanctioned projects under this scheme out of which only 20 have been completed. Nine projects under this scheme are still pending completion with only up to 60 per cent progress. There are still 16 projects yet to be developed under this scheme". Considering the fact that this scheme was initiated in 2014-15, "the progress is very slow," the panel flagged. The parliamentary committee also observed that all the projects, both completed and ongoing, under PRASHAD "have had delays of at least one year". "Some projects like the Development of Mathura-Vrindavan, UP as Mega Tourist Circuit (Ph-II) and development of basic facilities at Vishnupad temple, Gaya, Bihar have had delay of four years. The committee also observes that some of the Targets in the EFC proposal of October 2021 pertaining to this scheme have not been achieved," says the report. The committee in its report has noted that it is the sole responsibility of the Ministry of Tourism to the "authenticity of the data published in their publications, whatever may be sources of collection". "Unless and until they are satisfied with the correctness of the data, the Ministry should not publish it in the public domain," the report said. The committee recommends that the Ministry of Tourism may "evolve its own mechanism" to collect data on the arrival of foreign and domestic tourists and all other data relevant to the tourism sector, it added. The panel has also recommended that the Tourism Ministry should take all measures to "ensure that the data received by it from the ASI and the state governments is accurate". In its report, the committee also said it was "surprised to note that though the Ministry of Tourism has proposed 17 destinations as iconic destinations, the Government has not approved the proposals". The panel recommended that the government may take a decision on the proposals "at the earliest". In its report, the panel said the ministry has submitted that a Standard Tourism Methodology has been developed in line with UNWTO for a comprehensive and uniform collection of tourism statistics from all districts. It also said a "separate budget allocation" should have been kept for a major yearlong event like the G20 which is expected to have much impact on Indian tourism". The committee further observed that the tourism ministry is planning to leverage India's presidency of G20 to promote both domestic and inbound tourism this year. However, the Overseas Promotion and Publicity scheme has "not yet been approved" and the ministry can conduct only the crucial and unavoidable activities at this stage. "The committee feels that this would be a setback to the ministry's plans for global campaigns for promotion. The committee notes that all eight functioning overseas promotion offices are being shut down. The ministry has stated that alternative methods of promotion are being used but has not specified the methods in this regard. The committee observes that Tourism Officers have been appointed in Indian Missions abroad for the purpose of promotion of tourism," the report read. The panel suggested that the ministry "should not lose the opportunities" provided by the G20 meetings and the 'Visit India' promotional campaign and should make sure that a roadmap for promotion overseas is in place before the start of the next financial year so that budget can be utilised. The committee said it was pleased to see the initiatives taken by the Ministry to take up the matter of selecting 25 tourist sites as pilot project for formation of a separate police unit in the states and UTs. However, only 14 states have till date, deployed tourist police in one form or the other, the panel said and exhorted the Ministry to continue to take up the matter with other states for creation and deployment of tourist police at destinations in their areas. Chennai, Feb 9 (PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement conferring the Bharat Ratna on plant geneticist and Father of India's Green Revolution M S Swaminathan is a long-awaited acknowledgment and recognition of his monumental contribution to India in agriculture and farmer's welfare, Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi said on Friday. The governor highlighted Swaminathan's contribution to making "Bharat Atmanirbhar" in a post by Raj Bhavan on social media platform X. Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying L Murugan welcomed the announcement of the award and said Swaminathan dedicated his entire life to the betterment of farmers and to bringing about the Green Revolution in India. BJP state President K Annamalai said Swaminathan, who was regarded as the Father of Indias Green Revolution because of his innovative policies, was instrumental in developing high-yielding crop varieties, leading to a significant increase in agricultural productivity. "His idea that the future belongs to nations with grains has pivoted India to attain its realm (sic) of food security," he said in a post on social media platform X. New Delhi, Feb 9 (PTI) Archbishop Raphael Thattil, who was recently elected as the Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, visited Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday and exchanged pleasantries. Modi, in a post on social media platform X, said he had a very good meeting and posted pictures with the archbishop. Thattil was recently elected by the Synod of Bishops after Pope Francis, the head of Catholic Churches, accepted the resignation of Cardinal George Alencherry from that post. Alenchery had resigned on December 7, last year. Talking to the media after meeting the Prime Minister, Thattil said it was a "cordial visit". "This was a meeting without any agenda. We have concerns over many issues related to the church but this was not a meeting to discuss all those," Thattil said. The Archbishop expressed happiness in meeting the Prime Minister and said it was the responsibility of each citizen to cooperate with the government. When asked whether the various issues faced by the church, including the violence at Manipur, were discussed, Thattil reiterated that it was not a meeting to discuss such matters. "I came to Delhi after the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) meeting at Bengaluru. We had discussed in detail the issues faced by the church and have held various discussions in which bishops have aired their concerns. But this meeting with the PM was not to discuss any such matter," Thattil said. This was a cordial visit after I was elected to this position, he said. The Archbishop added that the CBCI will meet government officials at a later stage and discuss the issues faced by the church. Chennai, Feb 9 (PTI) The M S Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) here has thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for announcing that the Bharat Ratna would be awarded to globally renowned plant geneticist and the father of the Green Revolution in India M S Swaminathan. The gesture is a great recognition for his untiring work to ensure food nutrition and livelihood security for all, the foundation said on Friday. ".@mssrf @cabcmssrf @bptabc_mssrf @Fishforallmssrf thank the Hon'ble Prime Minister of India Shri @narendramodi for announcing the well-deserved Bharat Ratna for #MSSwaminathan," the foundation said in a post on social media platform X, posting Modi's announcement on Friday. "It's a great recognition for his untiring work to ensure #food #nutrition & livelihood security for all," it added. Swaminathan, who died last year on September 28 at age 98, is most widely known for transforming India from a drought-stricken country dependent on the United States for foodgrain imports in the 1960s to being declared self-sufficient in food production in 1971. His efforts involved introducing high-yielding genetic varieties of rice and wheat in India and the subcontinent, alongside American agronomist Norman Borlaug. Swaminathan was awarded the first World Food prize in 1987 for his work. Jammu, Feb 8 (PTI) Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi on Thursday lauded the synergy between the Jammu and Kashmir Police and the army. He also highlighted the depth of trust between the two forces, attributing their successful operations against terrorism to this synergy. "When you have 'trust', every issue gets settled," said the army commander, reflecting on his 40 years of service and noting the unparalleled cooperation between the police and the army. "Because of the cooperation between the two forces, there has been huge success in operations against the terrorists", said Dwivedi, who will be moving to his new role as the Vice Chief of Army Staff. Additional Chief Secretary, Home, R K Goyal, who has also been transferred from Jammu and Kashmir and posted as the Union secretary for border management, commended Lieutenant General Dwivedi's leadership qualities and highlighted the excellent civil-military relations during his tenure. New Delhi, Feb 8 (PTI) A 34-year-old man was arrested here for his alleged involvement in a fake visa racket, police said on Thursday. The accused, identified as Mukesh, a resident of Fatehgarh Sahib in Punjab, was arrested by a team of IGI airport police station, they said. According to DCP (Airport) Usha Rangnani, an Indian passenger, Sehajpreet Singh, was caught travelling on a fake visa in Thailand in July 2023. He was then deported to India and handed over to Indian agencies. During interrogation, Singh disclosed that he wanted to go abroad to earn money. He added that he befriended a Punjab-based travel agent named Mukesh on Facebook in 2022, Rangnani said. Mukesh told him that he worked in Malaysia for many years and lured him with assurance of good job opportunities, she said. The duo struck a deal of Rs 1 lakh and Singh flew to Thailand where he was caught by the authorities at the airport and sent back to India, another officer said. Police said the further investigation in the case is underway to unearth the involvement of other agents and to scrutinise bank accounts of Mukesh to trace his possible involvement in other similar cases. Finnish airline Finnair has started weighing passengers along with their carry-on luggage before takeoff. The initiative, which began on Monday, is entirely voluntary and anonymous, and aims to gather accurate data for optimizing aircraft balance calculations. According to a press release by Finnair, the weighment area for this new program will be strategically located around departure gates at Helsinki Airport. This effort is part of the airlines commitment to ensuring the safe operation of its flights through precise average weight calculations. We use the weighing data for the average calculations required for the safe operation of flights, and the collected data is not linked in any way to the customers personal data, said Satu Munnukka, Finnairs Head of Ground Processes. She further explained that the process includes recording the total weight of the customer and carry-on baggage, alongside the customers age, gender, and travel class, without collecting any identifiable information. Since the programs launch, around 600 passengers have volunteered to be weighed, demonstrating a positive customer response to participating in this data collection initiative. The airline added that this data collection is crucial for adhering to safety regulations, as each aircraft has a maximum weight limit that includes passengers, luggage, fuel, and other essentials. This limit ensures the aircrafts safe takeoff. Finnair has relied on average weights based on its measurements since 2018, but regulatory requirements necessitate an update every five years. Finnairs approach to updating this data could include using its measurements with the Civil Aviation Authoritys approval or adopting standard weights defined by the European Aviation Safety Authority (EASA). The collected data will be submitted to the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency between July and September 2024, contributing to aircraft balance and loading calculations for the years 20252030. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) During Thursday's oral arguments before the nation's highest court about Donald Trump's constitutional eligibility to remain on the ballot, the justices explicitly and indirectly channeled the member of Colorado's Supreme Court who wrote the most impassioned critique of the legal effort to disqualify Trump. How it began: President Joe Biden was urgently seeking more money from Congress to aid Ukraine and Israel. He took a gamble by seizing on GOP demands to simultaneously address one of his biggest political liabilities illegal migration at the U.S.-Mexico border. How it ended: Biden came close to succeeding, before it all fell apart spectacularly. Now the president is trying to make the best of it after a major congressional deal was scuttled once Republican front-runner Donald Trump got involved. And Biden is intent on showing that the former president and his Make America Great Again Republican acolytes in Congress arent really interested in solutions. In between: There is a story of a president willing to anger his own partys activist class in an election year, rare hope for bipartisan progress on one of the third rails of American politics, and a sudden, stunning collapse publicly engineered by Trump that Bidens team now sees as a political gift. This account of Bidens big gamble is based on interviews with more than a dozen White House aides, lawmakers, Biden administration officials and congressional aides, some of whom spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity to discuss the back and forth over the collapsed deal, and what happens next. The bipartisan legislative deal announced Sunday evening was the culmination of more than four months of negotiations that started with Senate Democrats and Republicans, and later included top Biden aides and Cabinet officials. It came after Republicans, led by then-House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, backed a temporary spending deal that kept the government operating but delivered no new funding for Ukraine. McCarthy had insisted to the White House that any effort to continue U.S. funding for Ukraine needed to be linked to significant steps to secure the U.S.-Mexico border, long a GOP priority. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, Bidens most valuable Republican ally when it came to Ukraine aid, also began appealing to senior administration officials for the spending measure to include border provisions. Inside the White House, there was no shortage of grumbling that Republicans were insisting on unrelated policy changes and holding up badly needed money for the Ukrainian armed forces. But Biden and his advisers saw a potential upside as well, at a time when the presidents handling of immigration was one of his biggest political vulnerabilities and there were chaotic scenes at the border and in major Democratic-run cities where migrants are sleeping in police station foyers, bus stations and hotels. Before long McCarthy was ousted and it took weeks to elect a replacement. New House Speaker Mike Johnson, elected Oct. 25, made clear that he, too, wanted to pair border security with any new Ukraine funding. While the House was in disarray, a group of bipartisan senators quietly got to work. The White House kept its distance until senior officials felt it was the right time to get directly involved, but there was also pressure from Republicans for them to join the talks. GOP lawmakers insisted it was necessary for Biden to expend some political capital and embrace a border compromise that could be unpopular with parts of his own party. On Dec. 12, the White House dispatched senior officials, including Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, to join the negotiations. The idea was to underscore Bidens seriousness about cutting a deal with Republicans. Immediately after the Republicans demanded that the administration show up, they showed up, said Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., one the negotiators. Difficult negotiations stretched into 2024. But there were signs of progress and Biden was optimistic. So much so that on Jan. 18, he said he didnt think there were any sticking points left. In an effort to push the bill forward, Biden even adopted Trumps own language saying hed shut down the border if given the power a stunning admission from a Democrat that was quickly and loudly condemned by activists in his own party. The deal that emerged would have overhauled the asylum system to provide faster and tougher immigration enforcement, as well as given presidents new powers to immediately expel migrants if authorities become overwhelmed with the number of people applying for asylum. It also would have added $20 billion in funding, a huge influx of cash. It was never entirely clear what the White House strategy was to advance the border compromise in the House should it make it out of the Senate. Johnson repeatedly voiced resistance to how the agreement was shaping up. Asked why the administration was choosing to hash out a deal with the Senate and not the House, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre regularly pointed out that House Republicans left for the holidays in mid-December while talks were ongoing. House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers, R-Ala., said it was a mistake that the White House didnt negotiate with House Republicans directly, but that even so, if the deal actually sealed the border, it couldve sailed through. Enter the former president. He had been occupied for weeks by a defamation trial in New York City and fending off GOP challenges from Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley in Iowa and New Hampshire. At a rally in Nevada on Jan. 27 after solidifying his position as the far and away GOP front-runner he said his piece: As the leader of our party, there is zero chance I will support this horrible open borders betrayal of America. Ill fight it all the way. A lot of the senators are trying to say, respectfully, theyre blaming it on me, Trump added, followed by the 10 words that made Biden aides light up: I say, thats OK. Please blame it on me. Please. By the time the text of the bill was released last Sunday, the pile-up of Republicans willing to block it already appeared insurmountable. GOP lawmakers claimed Biden already could fix the situation at the border with existing authority. But some in Congress publicly echoed Trump in saying they didnt want to give Biden a political win on an issue that they see as key to their 2024 hopes. With that, the deal that the White House and many in the Senate thought would pass was headed for failure. In a stern address this week, the president vowed to make sure that voters understand why it foundered. Ill be taking this issue to the country, and the voters are going to know that just at the moment we were going to secure the border and fund these other programs, the MAGA Republicans said no because theyre afraid of Donald Trump, Biden said. The rapid collapse of Republican backing for the border compromise stunned even those who worked most closely on the agreement. Murphy said that even as late as Sunday, he had counted 20 to 25 GOP senators as potential votes in favor of the deal. I am still shocked at how every single one of these Republicans, including many Republicans that were like, literally in the room with us - like, hours after helping us try to get the final product, they were declaring they were against it, Murphy said. Ive never seen anything like this in my time in Washington. To Biden aides, it was public validation of the argument the president had been making about Trump and his allies that they had their own interests at heart, not the countrys. Even in failure, the bipartisan agreement in principle was the closest Washington has come to significant revisions to border policy in two decades. And Biden allies are intent on making Republicans take the hit for any further scenes of chaos at the border. Its far from assured that Bidens efforts to pin the blame on Trump will stick. His GOP critics will no doubt continue their relentless efforts to saddle the current Oval Office occupant with the countrys immigration woes. And the president still has to contend with sore feelings among progressive Democrats who feel the president sold them out by going all-in on tougher measures and language that had previously been a nonstarter for the party. Biden, though, has his plan: Every day between now and November, the American people are going to know that the only reason the border is not secure is Donald Trump and his MAGA Republican friends. (AP) Like a lot of mothers, North Dakota state Rep. Emily OBrien struggled to find infant care when her daughter Lennon was born in 2019. So OBrien, a Republican who represents the Grand Forks region, brought Lennon along to meetings with local leaders and constituents. OBrien had her second daughter, Jolene, in 2022, not long before legislators were due to meet. Wanting more time to bond before returning to work, OBrien brought the newborn with her to Bismarck, where she snoozed through Gov. Doug Burgums State of the State address on her mothers desk. Not long after, OBrien persuaded her colleagues to back a plan to invest $66 million in child care, an unprecedented sum for a state that had, like others with Republican leadership, long resisted such spending. But OBrien argued it could help the states workforce shortage by helping more parents go to work and attracting new families to the state. It was definitely not, you know, an easy sell, because this is probably somewhere where you dont want the government to get involved, OBrien said. But its a workforce solution. We have people that are willing and able to work, but finding child care was an obstacle. Republicans historically have been lukewarm about using taxpayer money for child care, even as they have embraced prekindergarten. But the pandemic, which left many child care providers in crisis, underscored how precarious the industry is and how many working parents rely on it. In 2021, Congress passed $24 billion of pandemic aid for child care businesses, an unprecedented federal investment. Now, as that aid dries up, Republican state lawmakers across the country are embracing plans to support child care and even making it central to their policy agendas. To be sure, the largest investments in child care have come not from Republicans but from Democratic lawmakers. In New Mexico, the state is covering child care for most children under 5 using a trust funded by oil and natural gas production. In Vermont, Democratic state lawmakers overrode a Republican governors veto to pass a payroll tax hike to fund child care subsidies. Red states are following suit with more modest but nonetheless historic investments in child care. In Missouri, Republican Gov. Mike Parson has proposed spending nearly $130 million to help low-income families access child care once the pandemic relief money dries up and to create tax credits to support child care providers. Republican state Rep. Brenda Shields, who sponsored the tax credit bill, said she tells conservative colleagues that child care accessibility is critical to grow the states economy. Child care is a critical infrastructure, just like roads and bridges and ports and trains, Shields said. Businesses have been saying, What are you doing about child care? So Im trying to be part of the solution. Elsewhere, Louisiana last year approved an unprecedented $52 million for child care subsidies for low-income families. Alabama provided $17 million worth of incentives for child care providers to get licensed. And Texas voters approved a property tax cut for some day care centers. More Republicans have pledged to tackle the child care crisis this year. In Missouri, Senate President Pro Tem Caleb Rowden, a Republican, said he hoped the Statehouse would focus less on culture war issues like criminalizing drag shows and censoring library books and more on expanding access to child care and school choice. Nebraska and Indiana have both pitched programs to make child care free for child care workers. Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, a Republican who ran on a conservative education agenda, pitched boosting the states child care and education spending by $180 million. Child care advocates say the investments are not enough and called on Congress to authorize a new round of money to keep the child care industry afloat. Already, day care centers report they are raising tuition and losing workers because they are no longer receiving federal subsidies. Some have folded. GOP resistance to child care spending dates to the 1970s, when President Richard Nixon vetoed a bill to establish a national child care system, invoking fears of communism and saying it had family-weakening implications. Many of those arguments persist. Some conservative lawmakers have panned child care funding as socialist, arguing that people who cant afford day care should not have children. Two years ago, an Idaho state lawmaker apologized after he opposed federal early childhood money because it encouraged women to come out of the home and let others raise their children. The new and expanded funding reflects a growing sentiment that the nations broken child care system will not be fixed without public support. Families have long faced issues finding affordable, reliable child care. But during the pandemic, many child care workers left the industry for better-paying jobs, and some child care centers closed for good, exacerbating the problem. Child care is a labor-heavy enterprise in some states, one person may only care for four infants at once. Even before the pandemic, child care providers often had razor-thin margins. When families kept their children home during the pandemic, many day cares were barely hanging on. Many parts of the country do not have enough child care providers to offer slots for all children. Even when slots are available, the cost is out of reach for many families. Its a problem that disproportionately affects women, who are typically the primary caregivers for children. But a lack of child care access is also keeping people from the workforce, contributing to a labor shortage in many states. Many industries have started lobbying for states to invest more in child care. One of the strongest proponents is the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, which surveyed a dozen states and estimated they lost billions of dollars in economic activity because of child care gaps. Resistance persists in many parts of the country. While North Dakota passed ground-breaking measures to support child care, Republican Gov. Kristi Noem in South Dakota said she opposed proposals to spend state dollars helping families pay for child care. The one thing that Im not wiling to do is to directly subsidize child care for families, Noem recently told KWAT News in Watertown, South Dakota. I just dont think its the governments job to pay or to raise peoples children for them. (AP) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Ukraines top general on Thursday and told him its time for someone new to lead the army in what amounts to a major shake-up of Ukraines war strategy. In a post on X, Zelenskyy said he thanked Gen. Valerii Zaluzhnyi for his two years of service as commander-in-chief and discussed possible replacements for the top military job. The time for such a renewal is now, Zelenskyy said. Zelenskyy says he has appointed ol. Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, the commander of Ukraines ground forces, to lead the army. Syrskyi, 58, has since 2013 been involved in the Ukrainian armys effort to adopt NATO standards. Zaluzhnyi, in a Telegram message, did not announce he had stepped down but said he accepted that everyone must change and adapt to new realities and agreed that there is a need to change approaches and strategy in the war. The statement followed days of speculation spurred by local media reports that Zelenskyy would sack Zaluzhnyi, a move that would amount to the most serious shakeup of the top military brass since Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces claimed to have shot down a Russian attack helicopter in eastern Ukraine near the city of Avdiivka, where soldiers are fighting from street to street as Russias army steps up its four-month campaign to surround Kyivs defending troops. Ukrainian soldiers used a portable anti-aircraft missile to take down the Ka-52 Alligator attack helicopter, one of the Russian air forces deadliest weapons, according to Oleksandr Tarnavskyi, the commander of Ukrainian units fighting on the southeastern front line. The roughly 1,500-kilometer (930-mile) line of contact has shifted little during recent months of wintry weather. But as the war in Ukraine nears its two-year anniversary, Avdiivka has become a primary focus of Moscows forces, the U.K. Defense Ministry said in an assessment Thursday. Street-to-street combat is taking place in the city as Ukrainian troops seek to keep open their main supply route amid intense bombardment, the ministry said on X, formerly known as Twitter. The General Staff of Ukraines armed forces reported Thursday that its troops had fended off 40 enemy assaults around Avdiivka over the previous 24 hours. That is roughly double the number of daily Russian assaults at other points along the front line. Russias Pravda newspaper reported Thursday that the Russian army was attempting to cut a key logistics supply route for Ukraine in the village of Lastochkyne, about 6 kilometers (4 miles) west of Avdiivka. The Russian military has used electronic warfare to take out the Starlink communications system which Ukrainian troops use to communicate, Pravda said. Ukraine has built multiple defenses in Avdiivka, complete with concrete fortifications and a network of tunnels. Despite massive losses of personnel and equipment, Russian troops have slowly advanced since October. The fight has evolved into a gruesome effort for both sides. It has been compared to the nine months of fighting for Bakhmut, the Ukraine wars longest and bloodiest battle. It ended with Russia capturing the bombed-out, deserted city last May in what Moscow hailed as a major triumph. Both Bakhmut and Avdiivka are located in Ukraines Donetsk region. Moscow-backed rebels seized part of the region in 2014 and Russia illegally annexed all of it in 2022 with three other Ukrainian regions. Russia wants to capture the entire Donetsk region, where it currently holds just over half of the territory. (AP) President Joe Biden willfully retained and disclosed highly classified materials when he was a private citizen, including documents about military and foreign policy in Afghanistan and other sensitive national security matters, according to a Justice Department report that nonetheless says no criminal charges are warranted for him or anyone else. Special Counsel Robert Hur concluded that due to Bidens age and apparent memory limitations, it would be challenging to convince a jury to convict him of a serious felony requiring a mental state of willfulness. Hurs report, released on Thursday, paints a picture of Bidens memory in less than flattering terms, describing it as having significant limitations. The report details instances where Biden struggled to recall key events, including forgetting when he served as vice president and the timing of his son Beaus passing. The investigation highlighted a recorded conversation from 2017 between Biden and Mark Zwonitzer, a collaborator on Bidens memoirs, revealing Bidens difficulty in remembering details and events. Furthermore, during his interview with investigators, Bidens memory appeared to worsen, leading to concerns about his ability to recall crucial information. One noteworthy exchange in the report described Bidens confusion about his tenure as vice president, asking, When did I stop being Vice President? and Am I still Vice President? Trumps camp responded to Hurs report in typical fashion, releasing a statement saying, If youre too senile to stand trial, youre too senile to be president. Joe Biden is unfit to lead this nation. Our investigation uncovered evidence that President Biden willfully retained and disclosed classified materials after his vice presidency when he was a private citizen, Hur wrote. Hurs report says evidence suggests that many of the classified documents recovered by investigators at the Penn Biden Center, in parts of Bidens Delaware home, and in his Senate papers at the University of Delaware were retained by mistake. Biden said in a statement that he was pleased the special counsel had reached the conclusion I believed all along they would reach that there would be no charges brought in this case and the matter is now closed. He made a point of saying that he sat for five hours of in-person interviews over two days on Oct. 8 and 9, even though Israel had just been attacked on October 7th and I was in the middle of handling an international crisis. I just believed thats what I owed the American people so they could know no charges would be brought and the matter closed, Biden said. The report comes after a yearlong investigation into the improper retention of classified documents by Biden, from his time as a senator and as vice president, that were found at his Delaware home, as well as at a private office that he used in between his service in the Obama administration and becoming president. The investigation into Biden is separate from special counsel Jack Smiths inquiry into the handling of classified documents by Trump after Trump left the White House. Smiths team has charged Trump with illegally retaining top secret records at Mar-a-Lago home and then obstructing government efforts to get them back. Trump has said he did nothing wrong. After Bidens lawyers uncovered classified documents at his former office, Bidens representatives promptly contacted the National Archives to arrange their return to the government. The National Archives notified the FBI, which opened an investigation. Biden made his homes available to agents to conduct thorough searches, and that is how the most sensitive documents came to the attention of the Justice Department. Hur assessed that the evidence did not support that Biden willfully retained some of the classified documents that were recovered including the ones at the Penn Biden Center that sparked the probe. Biden could not have been prosecuted as a sitting president, but Hurs report states that he would not recommend charges against Biden regardless. We would reach the same conclusion even if Department of Justice policy did not foreclose criminal charges against a sitting president, the report said. Part of the report centers on Bidens handling of classified documents about Afghanistan specifically, the Obama administrations decision to send additional troops there that he retained after he left office as vice president in his Delaware home. Biden preserved materials documenting his opposition to the troop surge, including a 2009 classified handwritten memo to then-President Barack Obama. These materials were proof of the stand Mr. Biden took in what he regarded as among the most important decisions of his vice presidency, the report said. The documents have classification markings up to the Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information Level and were found in a box in Bidens Delaware garage that contained other materials of great significance to him and that he appears to have personally used and accessed. Photographs included in the report showed some of the classified Afghanistan documents stored in a worn cardboard box stored in his garage, apparently in a loose collection with other household items, including a ladder and a wicker basket. Classified documents from the Obama administration were also found in Bidens basement den, according to the report. Classified documents from his time in the Senate in the 1970s and 1980s were also found in his garage. Despite signs that Biden knowingly retained and disclosed classified materials, Hurs report said criminal charges were not merited for multiple reasons. Those include the fact that as vice president, and during his subsequent presidency when the Afghanistan records were found, he had the authority to keep classified documents at his home. As part of the probe, investigators reviewed a recording of a February 2017 conversation between Biden and his ghostwriter in which, referring to the 2009 memo to Obama, Biden said that he had just found all the classified stuff downstairs. Biden was renting a home in Virginia at the time and consolidated his belongings in Delaware when he moved out in 2019. Prosecutors believe that Bidens comment was a reference to the same classified records that FBI agents later found in his Delaware home. Though the best case for charges could involve his possession of the Afghanistan documents as a private citizen, prosecutors said, it was possible that Biden could have found those records at his Virginia home in 2017 and then forgotten about them soon after. This could convince some reasonable jurors that he did not retain them willfully, the report. The report said there was some evidence to suggest that Biden knew he could not keep classified handwritten notes at home after leaving office, citing his deep familiarity with the measures taken to safeguard classified information and the need for those measures to prevent harm to national security. Yet his kept notebooks containing classified information in unlocked drawers at home. He had strong motivations to do so and to ignore the rules for properly handing the classified information in his notebooks, the report said. He consulted the notebooks liberally during hours of discussions with his ghostwriter and viewed them as highly private and valued possessions with which he was unwilling to part. While the report removes legal jeopardy for the president, it is nonetheless is an embarrassment for Biden, who placed competency and experience at the core of his rationale to voters to send him to the Oval Office. Mr. Biden was known to remove and keep classified material from his briefing books for future use, and his staff struggled and sometimes failed to retrieve those materials, the report states. And there was no procedure at all for tracking some of the classified material Mr. Biden received outside of his briefing books In declining to prosecute Biden, Hurs office also cited what it said was Bidens limited memory both during his 2017 recorded conversations with the ghostwriter and in an interview with investigators last year. Given Mr. Bidens limited precision and recall during his interviews with his ghostwriter and with our office, jurors may hesitate to place too much evidentiary weight on a single eight-word utterance to his ghostwriter about finding classified documents in Virginia, in the absence of other, more direct evidence. We have also considered that, at trial, Mr. Biden would likely present himself to a jury, as he did during our interview of him, as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory, investigators wrote. There is recent Justice Department precedence for criminal charges against individuals accused of sharing classified information with biographers or ghostwriters. Gen. David Petraeus pleaded guilty to doing exactly that in 2015 and was sentenced to probation. Yet in this instance, prosecutors say, Biden could have plausibly believed that the notebooks were his personal property and belonged to him, even if they contained classified information. In an interview with prosecutors, the report said, Biden was emphatic with investigators that the notebooks were my property and that every president before me has done the exact same thing. White House lawyer Richard Sauber said Biden takes classified information seriously and strives to protect it, but making mistakes when packing documents at the end of an administration can be a common occurrence, as the report noted. We disagree with a number of inaccurate and inappropriate comments in the special counsels report. Nonetheless, the most important decision the special counsel made that no charges are warranted is firmly based on the facts and evidence, Sauber said. Bidens personal attorney Bob Bauer accused the special counsel of violating well-established norms and trashing the president. The special counsel could not refrain from investigative excess, perhaps unsurprising given the intense pressures of the current political environment. Whatever the impact of those pressures on the final report, it flouts department regulations and norms, he said in a statement. Trump responded to the report in a statement as he traveled to Nevada for Thursday evenings Republican caucuses. THIS IS A TWO-TIERED SYSTEM OF JUSTICE! he said in a statement, claiming the Biden case was 100 times different and more severe than mine. I did nothing wrong, and I cooperated far more. What Biden did is outrageously criminal He had 50 years of documents, 50 times more than I had, and WILLFULLY RETAINED them, Trump added, once again claiming ELECTION INTERFERENCE! White House lawyers and Bidens personal attorney were given the opportunity to review and comment on the report. Biden chose not to assert executive privilege over any portion of the report, White House counsels office spokesman Ian Sams said. Attorney General Merrick Garland in January 2023 named Hur, a former U.S. attorney for Maryland, to handle the politically sensitive Justice Department inquiry in an attempt to avoid conflicts of interest. It is one of three recent Justice Department investigations into the handling of classified documents by politically prominent figures. (AP/YWN) The Manhattan District Attorneys office announced on Thursday that seven individuals have been indicted in relation to the violent attack on two NYPD officers, which was captured on video in Times Square. Yohenry Brito, distinguishable in the footage by his yellow jacket as he grappled with the officers, had already faced indictment and remains in custody on charges including assault, obstruction, and evidence tampering. Darwin Andres Gomez-Izquiel, Wilson Juarez, Kelvin Arocha, and Yorman Reveron, apprehended last week, are the latest to be indicted, facing charges of assault and obstructing governmental administration. The identities of two additional indicted individuals will be disclosed at their arraignment. Authorities, seeking further suspects, released photos on Wednesday of two men linked to the January 27 incident. One is described wearing a red hoodie and white hat, standing 59, and the other in a black puffer jacket and red hat, around 57 tall. The assault on our police officers in Times Square outraged and sickened me. We have absolutely no tolerance for this despicable behavior, Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg said at a press conference. Our joint investigation with the NYPD helped us determine the alleged roles of new individuals involved, including some who are charged with having committed the most violent conduct and have not yet been apprehended. The Police Benevolent Associations President, Patrick Hendry, noted that the indictments only hold significance if the accused appear in a Manhattan courtroom and with Bragg as DA, theres no guarantee that will happen. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) JOIN THE TENS OF THOUSANDS WHO ALREADY ARE ALERTED OF BREAKING NEWS LIKE THIS IN LIVE TIME: YWN WHATSAPP STATUS UPDATES: CLICK HERE to join the YWN WhatsApp Status. YWN WHATSAPP GROUPS: CLICK HERE to be added to an official YWN WhatsApp Group. MAKE SURE TO CHECK THIS PAGE FREQUENTLY AS UPDATES WILL BE PUBLISHED IN LIVE TIME THERE IS NO NEED TO REFRESH THIS PAGE AS UPDATES WILL APPEAR AUTOMATICALLY (YWN World Headquarters NYC) French President Emmanuel Macron paid tribute Wednesday to victims of Hamas Oct. 7 attack in Israel in a national ceremony and denounced what he described as the largest antisemitic massacre of our century. Forty-two French citizens died in the attack, and three hostages are still believed to be held by Hamas and other terrorists in Gaza. Three empty chairs symbolized their absence. The ceremony comes after new Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne made his first trip to the Middle East, including Israel and the Palestinian territories, where he pushed for the release of the hostages. Four other French hostages have been released. A total of about 250 people were abducted in the Hamas attack and about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, were killed. Honor guards held photographs of each victim in front of a giant screen showing their first name in the Invalides monumental courtyard in Paris. Many of those killed will never turn 30, Macron said. Their voices still resonate in Hebrew and French. The French president strongly denounced barbarity which feeds on antisemitism and propagates it. He said nothing can justify or excuse this terrorism. Nothing. A sharp rise in antisemitic acts in France has been reported in the wake of the Oct. 7 attack. Data from the Interior Ministry and the Jewish Community Protection Service watchdog showed that 1,676 antisemitic acts were reported in 2023, compared to 436 the previous year. The Republican Guards orchestra played Kaddish by French composer Maurice Ravel, written in 1914 based on a traditional Hebrew melody. Macron said France will keep working tirelessly to meet the aspirations for peace and security of all in the Middle East and stressed that Israeli lives are not the only ones that continue to be torn apart. Families of victims attended the ceremony, many coming from Israel on a special flight chartered by the French Republic. (AP) Im not sure I recognise this country anymore, pro-Israel journalist Douglas Murray wrote in an article published by The Spectator on Thursday. Characteristics that I grew up with have been eroded to the point of disappearance. What were those characteristics? Id say they included a certain doggedness an indefatigability, a quiet strength and resilience. Where did they go? We have decided that the men of violence are winning and we must just keep our heads down A little over two years ago, when Sir David Amess was murdered, I remarked here on the appalling tribute that his colleagues paid in the parliamentary session given over to eulogies to their recently butchered colleague. Of course the MPs all spoke warmly of the man, but you might have come away with the idea that he had died of natural causes. Nobody saw fit to mention that his killer Ali Harbi Ali was an Islamic extremist. Nobody saw fit to call for the rooting out of this ideology. Instead they wittered on about the Online Safety Bill, which had absolutely nothing to do with Sir Davids murder. Of course some people said then as they always do that it would be wrong to jeopardise a trial or tar a whole community. This despite the fact that when Jo Cox was also brutally murdered nobody had any problem describing her killers foul ideology, or of tarring all Brexit voters with her murder. Anyhow, the killers trial came and went and nobody has had anything more to say after it than they did the day after his murder. Then came the news last week that the Conservative MP Mike Freer was stepping down from politics after threats. The MP listed a number of causes. It turns out that he was one of several MPs Ali Harbi Ali had been thinking of targeting. Freer has also come under repeated harassment because of his support for Israel. He was sent death threats by a group called Muslims Against Crusades and said that an arson attack on his constituency office was the final straw. Yet once again his colleagues seemed to have nothing to say. People lamented the sad fact that he was stepping down, but there was no especial outrage. This seems strange to me. It strikes me that had it been far-right extremists who had been targeting Freer, MPs might have had something to say. They might even rightly have said that this country should do everything it can to stop far-right extremists attacking MPs. But this was different. The hatred comes from a different direction, so they were silent. Freer himself gave an interview last week in which even he tried to get around the truth of his own situation. He refused to identify the ideology of the people who have been targeting him and even said in one interview that he didnt know what had motivated Ali Harbi Ali to kill Sir David Amess. Although I know it is a darn fool position to stand up for someone more than they appear willing to stand up for themselves, let me make an observation. The people targeting Freer are Muslim extremists. It is possible that they include some far-left anti-Israel lunatics. But generally when it comes to the violent bit its going to be the Islamists. Yet even now neither Freer nor our political class in general seem willing to make such obvious observations. You get an idea why whenever you see them interviewed. I experienced a touch of this myself this week. Last Sunday I was due to speak to a capacity audience at the Apollo Theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue. The event was a fund-raiser for an Israeli university which lost a number of its students on 7 October. A number of its other students have since re-enlisted in the army and are losing their education. So the fundraiser was to help these students back into education when the war ends. But word got out that this was an IDF fundraiser. Various Islamists got active. Theatre staff reported that they were worried about turning up because of threats. Staff from another theatre were drafted in, but somebody leaked their emails and they were threatened in turn. On the morning of the event the theatre pulled out. They had one job to let the show go on and they failed. We managed to transfer to the only venue able to be secured, which was a nearby synagogue. But a bunch of Islamists kept trying to find out where the event had relocated to, and meanwhile stood outside the old theatre shouting abuse at me through a megaphone. I had imagined that in such a situation the Metropolitan Police might be called in. That the authorities might agree that violence and intimidation cannot be rewarded. Id have thought that in a city where you can openly call for violence against Jews, Jews might be allowed to gather to support other Jews. But no. Chased to the synagogue they were. As I say, I remember a different Britain. A Britain where Margaret Thatcher stood in Brighton after an attempt on her life and told the world that the men of violence must not be allowed to win. But we dont live in that society any more. We have decided that the men of violence are winning, and that we must as a result all just keep our heads down. Well thats not my Britain, and I trust its not yours either. The video below shows an Islamic ceremony taking place in London: (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) Residents of the Chareidi city of Modiin Illit have warned that the city is vulnerable to Arab infiltrators from the neighboring Palestinian village due to the removal of barriers from concrete drainage tunnels between the two areas. At the beginning of the week, Shas MK Yosef Taieb submitted an urgent proposal to the Knesset on the subject: The neighborhoods of Neot-Hapisga and Cheftzivah in Modiin Ilit are exposed to infiltrators from the Arab village of Bilin due to the opening of barriers in the concrete tunnels, the proposal states. According to the proposal, there are wide concrete drainage tunnels between the two areas. Barriers were placed on the side of Modiin Illit and nets were placed on the Palestinian side to prevent the infiltration of Arab thieves or chalilah, terrorists, from Bilin into the Jewish neighborhoods. However the barriers were recently removed and Palestinians can cross the tunnels, even by motorcycle. According to the proposal, the removal of the barriers has already led to a wave of thefts and residents are fearful of a worse security-related incident, chalilah. Ironically, the tunnels are under the security fence and while the security fence is guarded, Arabs can easily pass through the area underground. In a written reply, the IDF not only confirmed the details but said that the army itself removed the nets from the Palestinian side of the tunnels: On rainy days, the directorate operates a procedure to open the nets to prevent the barrier from collapsing as a result of the large amounts of water that pass through the passages underneath. This procedure is called a storm procedure, in which we reduce to a minimum the time required to open the barrier at the water crossing. The tunnels were completely open from January 25 to February 4, when there was constant rain. The IDF also claimed that the police, not the army, is responsible for the security-related issues. Taieb had submitted the proposal and planned on having an urgent discussion on the issue in the Knesset on Wednesday. But it was canceled at the last minute and Taieb removed the proposal from the agenda at the request of Defense Minister Yoav Gallants office after a commitment was made to find an immediate solution to the problem. MK Yosef Taieb met with the residents who contacted him and they claimed that this is exactly what theyre protesting: Its unfathomable that there are no barriers in the tunnels on rainy days, they said. They added that thieves regularly enter Modiin Illit through the tunnels and therefore could be planning more sinister infiltrations, chalilah. The residents also rejected the IDFs claim that the police are responsible for the issue as the army is the one removing the barriers. In recent months, residents of Modiin Illit have been complaining about incessant digging noises. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) The Shin Bet on Thursday published a video from the interrogation of a terrorist from Hamass Nukhba force who was captured in a tunnel in Khan Younis in Gaza along with two other terrorists. The terrorist, who served as a Nukhba commander, was detained deep in the tunnel, where he was hiding behind a blast door along with additional terrorists, armed with weapons, RPG launchers, and explosives. However, instead of using the weapons to attack IDF soldiers, he and his fellow terrorists laid down their arms and surrendered. During the interrogation, he said: We put all our weapons outside the room and we sat and waited in the room. The IDF came and took all the weapons outside. When the IDF arrived, we raised our hands and surrendered. In response to a question about his message to his Hamas friends still hiding in tunnels, he said: I recommend to everyone to surrender because otherwise your fate is death. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) Republicans and Democrats in Colorado expectedly hewed along partisan lines following Thursday's oral arguments before the U.S. Supreme Court, which is weighing whether former president Donald Trump should be disqualified from the state ballot for allegedly engaging in an "insurrection" that culminated in the Jan. 6 attack on Congress. In the southern region of Gaza, specifically in Khan Younis, the IDFs Commando Brigade has been conducting raids in the citys western sector, targeting Hamas infrastructure. The IDF reported that a drone identified a Hamas cell placing explosive devices near commando units, with an ensuing airstrike eliminating the Hamas operative involved. Also in Khan Younis, the Border Defense Corps 414th Combat Intelligence Collection Unit identified two armed Hamas members and successfully directed an airstrike against them, neutralizing the threat. The Paratroopers Brigade, also operating in the western part of Khan Younis, has been instrumental in the IDFs efforts, eliminating approximately 15 Hamas operatives during its operations over the last day. The brigades aggressive stance against Hamas has led to the dismantling of several terror group sites and the confiscation of weapons and equipment. Further operations by the 646th Reserve Paratroopers Brigade in Khan Younis involved airstrikes on booby-trapped buildings and raids on additional Hamas locations, emphasizing the IDFs comprehensive approach to combating the terror group. In the north, near Beit Lahiya, the Gaza Divisions Northern Brigade encountered a group of gunmen adjacent to a Hamas stronghold. The IDF conducted airstrikes against this cell and two additional gunmen detected in the vicinity, continuing its campaign against Hamas operatives throughout the Gaza Strip. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) The IDF on Friday reported a significant find by the 646th Reserve Paratroopers Brigade a Hamas-operated rocket launcher placed perilously close to a childrens daycare and a mosque, posing a direct threat to civilian areas. The launcher, which was armed and aimed towards Israel, was subsequently destroyed to neutralize the potential danger it posed. During their operations in Khan Younis, the IDF reservists also uncovered a Hamas tunnel situated beneath a water facility, highlighting for the umpteenth time Hamass use of civilian infrastructure for terrorist purposes. Inside this tunnel, two Hamas fighters were encountered and killed by the IDF. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Torah Umesorah Brings Hundreds of Mechanchos Together A winter night in February. What drew over 500 mechanchos and menahalos to the Clifton Grade School in Lakewood, NJ this past Monday night? Torah Umesorah, working with dedicated staff and sponsors, produced an unprecedented Chinuch Habanos event on the occasion of the shloshim of the Mashgiach, R Matisyahu Salomon ztl. The aim was to pay tribute to the life and legacy of this fallen giant ztl, by instilling our mechanchos with the drive and desire to bring his hartz and warmth into their own classrooms on a daily basis. With live event hookups in Providence, RI; Chicago, IL; South Bend, IN; and Miami, FL, the inspiration was not limited to Lakewood alone. The Mashgiachs message reverberated across states and phone lines, as more than 200 women called in to take part in this massive kiddush Hashem. You will be the ones to greet Mashiach! The event opened with divrei chizuk from Harav Yitzchok Sorotzkin shlita, delivered with his signature passion and fire. He instilled our mechanchos with a tremendous sense of pride and privilege to be the ones educating the next generation of bnos yisroel. Harav Yitzchok made it clear that any person involved in the chinuch of our heilige children would be among those who greet Moshiach! He gave special recognition to the General Studies teachers who have made great headway in teaching secular subjects in an engaging and hashkafically-sound way. Not a Dry Eye Among the highlights of the event was the all-new music video presentation titled Reaching Each One. Stirring, original lyrics and soulful music accompanied by breathtaking footage showcasing the Mashgiachs inimitable derech hachinuch and ahavas Yisroel. The poignant images and memorable sound bites highlighted R Matisyahus achrayus and nesius olthe way his ahava for the klal truly enabled him to reach each Yid. It left the audience with visions of greatnessand the feeling that each one of them could also connect with their students by truly loving each one. Which primary chinuch directive of the Mashgiach resonates in your mind during your teaching day? The Roundtable Discussion, moderated by Mrs. Baily Stefansky, provided ample opportunity for the Mashgiachs daughter and the Mashgiachs niece (Mrs. Perkowski and Mrs. Bernfeld) to relate chinuch directives and messages that they personally heard from R Matisyahu. They shared relevant bits of wisdom and hadracha that stuck with them, and nowwith us. Chinuch with Hartz At planned intervals throughout the event, attendees were privileged to view targeted video messages and anecdotes from six Rabbonim chashuvim: Harav Shmuel Yeshaya Keller, Rabbi Newman, Rabbi Nochum Binder, Rabbi Zions, Harav Salomon (son of the Mashgiach), and Rabbi Jacobs (son-in-law). Each one related a powerful message of chinuch by drawing on the zichronos and teachings of the Mashgiach ztl. At the conclusion of the presentation, Rabbi Saadya Grama endeavored to answer the question uppermost in everyones minds: So how can we bring the Mashgiachs hartz into our own classrooms? For the Road Attendees walked away with a beautiful, original publication titled featuring stories and anecdotes about the Mashgiach that were submitted by mechanchim and mechanchos and compiled by Torah Umesorah. In addition, pre-registered attendees received fully loaded USBs with the Mashgiachs Vaadim on Chinuch, to listen to and cherish. But most of all, they walked away with the hartz. With pride. With conviction. With renewed purpose and desire to carry on the Mashgiachs legacy by bringing his warmth into their classrooms and lives, every single day. Torah Umesorah thanks Adas Yeshurun Chicago, Dovid Gruman/Dave Electronics, Harav Zupnik with Bais Torah UTefillah in Passaic, Lopin and Vilenski Families of Chicago, Moishe Rajchenbach, Ray and Sharon Haber, and those who gave in anonymity for sponsoring and enabling this event to happen. HM Revenue & Customs has admitted that its customer service levels for taxpayers using the telephone or post to reach it remain 'below [its] service standards.' HMRC said an increase in the number of taxpayers, and a higher proportion of people with complicated queries, had affected its post and telephone services. In the 2022 to 2023 tax year, HMRC said it improved the proportion of correspondence it turned around in 15 days to 72.7 per cent, up from 45.5 per cent the previous year. In its latest performance update, HMRC said more taxpayers could 'help themselves' by using its online services. Below par: HM Revenue & Customs said its phone and post services remain sub-standard The proportion of callers wanting to speak to an adviser at HMRC on the telephone who were able to do so averaged at 71.4 per cent between October and December 2023. While conceding it needs to do more to improve its telephone and postal services, HMRC said there was 'more scope for our customers to help themselves' by using its online services. It said: 'More than 3million of the phone calls we received in 2022 to 2023 were about just three things that can easily be done online: resetting a password, getting your PAYE tax code, and finding your National Insurance number. It takes the equivalent of 500 advisers to answer those calls. 'It means those people who really need to speak to an HMRC adviser including those with complex queries, the digitally excluded and the particularly vulnerable can struggle to get the help they need. 'The only way we can meet those service levels for customers who really need to speak to us, is by further improving and expanding our digital and online services and continuing to direct even more people to use them.' HMRC is aiming to reduce the volume of contact through phone and post by tax payers by 30 per cent by the end of 2025, against levels seen by the end of 2022. In the 2022 to 2023 financial year, HMRC collected 788.8billion in tax, representing an increase of 10.2 per cent on the previous year. HMRC said the money from tax payers 'is spent by the Government on schools, the NHS, police and other essential services we all rely on.' HMRC claimed its compliance work secured 34billion worth of tax revenue during the period, that would otherwise have been lost to the exchequer through error, fraud and other forms of non-compliance. It added: 'Were focused on delivering a modern, efficient service that makes it easier to pay tax and harder to get it wrong. 'That means improving guidance and enhancing and expanding our digital services online via Gov.uk and through the app to give customers the quick and easy ways to manage their tax affairs that they expect.' According to HMRC, between January and December 2023 there were 80million logins to the HMRC app by 3.3million unique users, marking a login growth rate of over 70 per cent when compared with the previous year. It claimed 'digital assistant interactions' increased from 1.9million in 2022 to 2023 to 4.8million so far in 2023 to 2024. This is Money has been charting the woes of tax payers struggling to contact HMRC or facing unexpected hefty tax bills. Service levels down a drastic downturn during the pandemic. A report by the Public Accounts Committee published last year found post and call handling had fallen significantly during the pandemic. In 2021 to 2022, HMRC responded to 39.5 per cent of post within 15 days, compared to 70.3 per cent the previous year. The emergence of Arm Holdings as an Artificial Intelligence champion shows that Britain is capable of nurturing high-tech winners. The shame is that Theresa Mays government succumbed to the entreaties of Masayoshi Son of SoftBank in 2016 and the incumbents on Downing Street failed to persuade Arm to list in London when it refloated last year. Now, all the spoils accrue to New York and SoftBank, following an impressive update on Arms prospects. As a brilliant designer of smart chips, the opportunities for Arm were always promising. It is among the reasons that US chip maker Nvidia, which now has a market value of 1.4trillion, wanted Arms coding skills and was a cornerstone investor when it floated. Tech jewel: Arm forecast final quarter sales and profits way above expectations amid soaring licensing and royalty revenues on the back of its AI skills Arm forecast final quarter sales and profits way above expectations amid soaring licensing and royalty revenues on the back of its AI skills. Chief executive Rene Haas says it is benefiting from the profound opportunity presented by the demand for new AI applications required by the tech industry. No longer is Arm largely a one-trick pony with most of its income derived from chips embedded in smartphones. AI skills mean Arm-licensed processors increasingly are being used with Nvidia graphics and devices such as mobile phones and laptops. The stock market response to Arms upbeat progress was remarkable, with the shares rocketing 60 per cent in latest trading. Its shares have more than doubled from the price at the time of the September initial public offering when SoftBank hung on to 90 per cent of the stock. Masayoshi Son will be gleeful at how he managed to whisk Arm and its intellectual property, developed in Cambridge, away from the UK and buy back a 25 per cent stake from the Saudi Arabia-backed Vision Fund before the float. Much of the R&D and development of Arm architecture is still in Cambridge. But the effective HQ moved to the US and the temptation of Silicon Valley is likely to be a vacuum cleaner for skills as chip developers move closer to market. Britains pallid politicians should hang their heads in shame for not fighting harder for an AI trendsetter which could have propelled a tech revolution. Life lines Arm is the one that got away. But no thanks to former chancellor George Osborne, who favoured a sale to Pfizer, life sciences pioneer AstraZeneca remains firmly implanted in the UK. In 2021 chief executive Pascal Soriot, hero of the pandemic, felt sufficiently alienated to choose Ireland over the UK for a 285million plant investment. So it is terrific that he is changing his mind. He argues that the environment for big pharma in the UK has improved, pointing to investment-friendly tax policies (are you listening CBI?) and a better climate within the NHS for clinical trials. Soriot always saw Brexit as an opportunity to use the NHS as a test bed and for an enhanced MHRA (the UKs medical regulator) to steal a march on the sclerotic European regulator. Astra shares slipped in latest trading in spite of a pick-up in final-quarter sales. The disappointment stemmed from higher-than-expected R&D spend and lower prices for medicines in emerging markets. In my book, both are good happenings. The portfolio of oncology drugs continues to outperform most peers with sales of lung cancer treatment tagrisso up 9 per cent, leukaemia medicine calquence up 23 per cent and gall bladder drug imfinzi up a whopping 55 per cent. Astra also continues to perform well in China where many UK firms have encountered banana skins. With a market value of 151billion, it vies with Shell for top slot in the FTSE 100. Phew! Speak up Unilevers new boss, Dutchman Hein Schumacher is refreshingly honest about how performance needs to improve. His focus on innovation, as the leading-edge consumer products group concentrates on 30 brands, is auspicious. New share buybacks worth 1.3billion will be welcome. His failure to confront geopolitical realities is more disappointing. Unilever remains in Russia in spite of its war on Ukraine and Western values. And he has failed to confront the board of ice cream brand Ben & Jerrys over its calls for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. Courage, please. The boss of drug maker AstraZeneca said Britain is a better place to do business than it was a year ago but he warned that more improvements are needed. In what could be seen as a warning to the major parties ahead of a general election, French chief executive Pascal Soriot said that there was work to do to boost investment in innovation. But he was more positive about the UK than he was last year when he called it a very unattractive place to do business. In April he blasted high taxes in Britain, saying it was a difficult country in which to establish pharmaceutical manufacturing bases as he touted China as the next big growth region. But yesterday he said: We are certainly looking at what future investments we could do in the UK and elsewhere. Upbeat: Astrazeneca's French chief exec Pascal Soriot (pictured) is more positive about the UK than he was last year when he called it a 'very unattractive' place to do business The FTSE 100 boss said it was now easier to carry out clinical trials and praised the Chancellor for introducing tax policies to incentivise companies to invest. The environment in the UK for life sciences today is different from what it was almost a year ago, said Soriot, who was appointed in 2012. The ability to do clinical trials has improved a lot. The Government and NHS have done a lot to facilitate clinical trials. The chancellor has introduced tax policies helping incentivise companies to invest. Finally, the industry and the Government have found a compromise in terms of those rebates that were really affecting companies and reducing incentives to invest. There is more to do to increase investment in innovation in the UK but clearly we are moving in the right direction and in a much better environment. There is more to come. It came as the Anglo-Swedish pharma giant more than doubled annual profits last year thanks to bumper sales of cancer treatments. Profits hit 5.5billion in 2023, up from 1.9billion the year before, as sales rose 3 per cent to 36.3billion. Excluding Covid drugs, sales were up 13 per cent. Cancer drug sales jumped 19 per cent to 14.6billion and account for 40 per cent of revenues compared with 35 per cent in 2022. And the London-listed firm said revenue and earnings this year would be lifted by blockbuster oncology medicines. Revenue and core earnings per share a measure of profit is expected to rise by a low double-digit to low teens percentage in 2024. But shares fell 6.4 per cent, or 667p, to 9823p as results for the final three months of the year were not as strong as expected. It reported profits of 712million between October and December, 15 per cent higher than a year earlier but less than analysts had expected the miss due to a step-up in research and development spending and price reductions for some medicines in emerging markets. Pharma companies typically prosper from having a mixture of blockbuster products, treatments with limited or no competition, and a healthy pipeline of new drugs, said Russ Mould, investment director at AJ Bell. Astra is under constant pressure to keep driving growth. That means success in the lab as well as products on the market. Its pipeline looks busy, but success is never guaranteed. British American Tobacco shares gained the most in nearly four years after it revealed it was looking to dump some of its 15billion stake in Indias largest cigarette firm. The Lucky Strike and Dunhill maker said it planned to offload a chunk of its 30 per cent holding in ITC. BAT chief executive Tadeu Marroco said the potential sell-off offers us the opportunity to release and reallocate some capital. The company has owned a stake in ITC for over 100 years and the shareholding has been subjected to numerous regulatory restrictions, he added. The prospect of a sell-off sent the shares up amid hopes that it will free up cash to hand out to investors. BAT chief exec Tadeu Marroco (pictured) said the potential sell-off offers us the opportunity to release and reallocate some capital The stock ended the day up 7.1 per cent, or 165p, at 2484p. BAT last launched a 2billion share repurchase programme in February 2022 but decided not to renew it last year. This would be a big positive, bringing the all-important share buyback timeline closer for investors, said RBC Capital Markets analyst James Edwardes Jones. Rival Big Tobacco players have been looking to sweeten investors. London-listed Imperial Brands has an ongoing 1.1billion share buyback scheme, while Altria announced an 800million buyback last week. BATs rally came as it posted a loss of 15.8billion for 2023 against profits of 10.5billion the previous year. It followed a 27.3billion writedown on US cigarette brands. The company said in December that Camel, Natural American Spirit, Newport and Pall Mall brands acquired in a 40billion takeover of the cigarette giant Reynolds American in 2017 are worth far less than anticipated. Yet the charge was higher than the 25billion hit it originally warned of. The company blamed this on currency movements. Cigarette firms in general have suffered as consumers shift towards vapes. Revenues at BAT were 27billion for the year, down 1.3 per cent from the year before. Its smoke-free business, which includes vapes and nicotine pouches, was profitable for the first time, raking in 398million. Sales of BATs vape products rose about 7 per cent in 2023 while nicotine pouch sales climbed by more than a third. It looked to stub out concerns surrounding the UKs incoming disposable vape ban, which is aimed at tackling the rise in young people vaping. Marroco said this would not have a huge impact thanks to his firms refillable vape products including Vuse. Because we have a modest share in disposable vapes, we would be in a stronger position, because we are leaders in refillable, he said. Looking ahead, BAT said global tobacco sales are expected to be down 3pc, driven by a weak performance in the US. A High Court judge has given the green light to a redress scheme worth up to 230million for the hundreds of thousands of investors burned by the collapse of the Woodford Equity Income fund in 2019. Judge Jonathan Richards said in a statement published on Friday he will sanction the scheme at the end of February, after 93.7 per cent of the roughly 300,000 affected investors backed it in December. But Richards dismissed calls for the court to force the Financial Conduct Authority to demand WEIF's investment manager the now defunct Woodford Investment led by founder Neil Woodford 'top up' the amount that investors receive. High Court Judge Jonathan Richards said in a statement published on Friday he will sanction the scheme at the end of February 'I doubt my power to make such an order,' he added. 'But even if I had that power, I would not exercise it.' Investors will be paid up to 77p for each 1 they lost when the WEIF was closed in 2019, with their first payment due in March when between 183.5million and 200million will be paid out. The investors' approval of the scheme effectively blocked class actions launched by various law firms against the once-10billion fund's administrator Link, and possibly those against other connected parties. Potentially in the firing line for lawsuits, for example, was Hargreaves Lansdown, which promoted the Woodford fund until the day dealings in its shares were suspended. The FCA announced the scale of the compensation package in April last year, but many critics have argued the 230million sum is unfair to investors. Some experts suggested investors are entitled to closer to 1billion in compensation. Many also argued that Woodford, Link and the regulator have not been held sufficiently accountable for the fund's downfall. The FCA has said it considers the scheme the 'quickest and best chance to obtain a better outcome' for investors. The WEIF prospectus explicitly told investors they had statutory rights to refer complaints to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) to obtain 'fair compensation' should things go wrong, and to have the liability settled by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme up to 85,000 should the firm then default in payment. Is your fund on the verge of being wound up? Here's how to salvage your investment But the FCA successfully argued the redress scheme could overrule these rights. 'The Scheme offers an appalling outcome for those who were trapped in Woodford's flagship fund when it was suspended in June 2019,' claims Andy Agathangelou, founder of campaign group Transparency Task Force. 'Most will get back between four and eight pence in the pound of their outstanding capital losses, with nothing for the returns forfeit over the past four and a half years, let alone consequential losses, so much, much less than many have been led to believe by the FCA. 'The removal of statutory rights against the wishes of those concerned means the outcome of this case matters to everybody that ever has, or might ever in the future, use UK financial services.' The collapse of WEIF Neil Woodford was once among the UK's most famous and popular stock pickers, with billions of pounds from institutions and individuals flowing into his funds when he started his own business. The collapse of the Woodford Equity Income fund occurred when a run of poor performance led to investors pulling cash out in large volumes, which the fund was unable to service without selling off assets on the cheap. This ultimately led to Link's decision to suspend the fund, which never recovered and was forced to close. The affair led to fierce criticism of Woodford, Link, platforms advertising the fund and the FCA, the latter of which has been forced to reassess rules after facing scrutiny in Parliament. "One of the primary things that the community has expressed is hoping that people who have all sorts of wheels, whether that be scooters, bikes, wheelchairs, all those things, could wheel around the park and use it in some capacity," Starner said by phone. The park also should attract community members along a continuum of skillsets, from beginner to advanced. Starner said staff was very pleased that Grindline took already existing input regarding the skatepark, then listened to community members over several public meetings and events to develop a design that fits everyone's wishes. Coursing enthusiasts travelled from all over the world and from all corners of Ireland to attend the annual coursing extravaganza at Powerstown Park in Clonmel last weekend. Coursing legend, Tom ODwyer from Cashel, was among those who attended. Tom, who will celebrate his 90th birthday next month, has not missed the annual meeting in Clonmel for the last seventy years. It's like our All-Ireland. There is nothing else like it. It is the biggest day of the year for us all, said Tom, famous for his charges with the Smokey prefix. Tom, a champion breeder whose dogs have won over 60 trial stakes and has three Oaks victories and 1 Derby triumph to his name, said he loved meeting his friends in Clonmel. One of those friends is Viara Gent, a Canadian lady who now lives in the Horse & Jockey area. This coursing meeting is the pinnacle for me. We wait all year for this. The people who come here love the sport, they love their dogs. It is wonderful, said Viara. People from Portugal, Scandinavia, Germany, America and Australia come to Clonmel for the coursing, they just would not miss it, said Viara who has had coursing dogs for many years but is also a member of the Irish Kennel Club and is a top breeder of show dogs who had a winner in Crufts last year. Gardai are set to launch a murder probe pending the autopsy results of man assaulted in Co Kildare earlier today. Gardai are investigating a fatal assault of a man that occurred between 3pm and 4pm on today at a residence on School Street in Kilcock, Co Kildare. A man in his 50s was pronounced deceased at the scene. His body remains at the scene while a post-mortem examination will be conducted tomorrow morning at the mortuary at Naas General Hospital by State Pathologist Sally Ann Collis. The scene on School Street remains preserved for examination by the Garda Technical Bureau. According to a spokesperson for the gardai, the investigation is being led by a Senior Investigating Officer (SIO) at Leixlip Garda Station and a Garda Family Liaison Officer (FLO) has been appointed to liaise with the family of the deceased. "A man in his 40s has been arrested on suspicion of murder as part of this investigation. He is currently detained under the provisions of Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984 at a Garda Station in Kildare," they commented. Gardai are appealing to any persons who were in the vicinity of School Street between 3pm and 4pm and observed any activity which drew their attention to come forward. Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling in the vicinity of School Street between 3pm and 4pm are asked to make this footage available to Gardai. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Leixlip Garda Station on 01 6667800, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station. The childrens minister has said he is eager to see more people arrested in relation to arson attacks on buildings, saying the gardai are treating the investigations seriously. Roderic OGorman said it is hugely important to see the full force of the law applied to people who are attacking buildings rumoured or earmarked to house asylum seekers. He said it was nothing short of a miracle that no one has been injured or worse in the attacks. Gardai and the Government have been grappling with a series of incidents at premises rumoured to be used for asylum seekers. Gardai made a number of arrests this week in relation to an arson attack at a vacant pub in Ringsend on New Years Eve. Mr OGorman welcomed the arrests, saying that the building was never going to be used by his department, which oversees the allocation of housing for people seeking international protection. He said: It was actually to be used by Dublin Regional Homeless Executive. We were very clear at that time before Christmas, when we were asked about it, that we were not using it. His comments come after a house in Leixlip, Co Kildare, was set ablaze earlier this week. The house was rumoured to be planned accommodation for asylum seekers. Despite gardai telling protesters outside the house that it was not going to be used to house asylum seekers, they were not believed and the property was later attacked. Similarly, in Leixlip, we had got queries in over the last two weeks, Are you planning to use this building?. We were very clear with the public reps who came out to us that we werent using it, Mr OGorman added. So we endeavour to be as clear as possible at all times about our plans when we are planning to use a building and whether we are not. Ultimately, if someone is going to go out and burn a building, what our department does isnt going to stop that. We have to just recognise this. Someone whos made a decision to take a criminal act isnt going to change their decision because of better communications from our department. But we will always provide the accurate information to public reps so they can continue to provide information within their own location. He added: I think its hugely important that we see the full force of the law applied to people who are undertaking these attacks. Its criminal. Its dangerous. Its nothing short of a miracle that no one has been injured or worse in these attacks so far. They also obviously make the job that my department has, which is a job to provide accommodation for vulnerable people, far more difficult. So I think that I, from my engagement with the (Garda) Commissioner (Drew Harris), I see the extent, the seriousness with which the gardai are taking this. Ultimately, the charges that the gardai and the designation of charges that the gardai lay against people is up to them in terms of what they believe they can prove. I am eager to see arrests and charges take place. We won't stand in the way of this important presser that will go mostly unreported by local media. Here's the word . . . School Districts "Socially Transitioning" Students without Parental Consent, Despite AG warning Attorney General Kris Kobach announced today that several Kansas school districts allow employees to hide from parents the fact that a student may be using a different name or pronouns at school. Early last year, Kobach sent letters to six Kansas school districts challenging their policies that require or allow school district staff to conceal from parents a students transgender or gender non-conforming status. In short, the policies allow schools to socially transition students without the parents knowledge or consent. A child changing his or her gender identity has major long-term medical and psychological ramifications, Kobach said. Parents should know, and have an opportunity to be involved in, such an important aspect of their well-being. The Attorney General notified the districts that their policies violate parental rights and asked whether the district collected parental input prior to adopting the transgender notification policies. Upon receiving the letter, two school districtsBelle Plaine (USD 357) and Maize (USD 266)responded that they had no intention of cutting parents out of the process and immediately rescinded or amended their policies. A lot of times these policies are pushed by outside activist organizations and adopted by school boards without being fully informed about what the policy would actually do, said Deputy Attorney General Abhishek Kambli. Belle Plaine and Maize should be praised for responding swiftly when they saw what was going on. The four remaining districts, however, dug in their heels and essentially asserted that school administrators know better than parents. Those remaining schools were Kansas City (USD 500), Olathe (USD 233), Shawnee Mission (USD 512), and Topeka (USD 501). Some schools denied that their policies cut parents out of the picture, but the Attorney General's letters quote the offending language directly from those schools' policies. Olathe requested a meeting to discuss the issue with the Attorney Generals Office, but despite repeated attempts by the Attorney General's staff, no such meeting has been scheduled. Kobach also sent a letter to the Kansas Association of School Boards (KASB) based on evidence that KASB may have been involved in promoting policies that push parents out of the way on this issue. KASB declined to either confirm or deny that it had been involved in drafting such policies. Kobachs letters to the KASB and four holdout districts can be found here. ### Update . . . Here's the response so far . . . KSHB: Olathe Schools calls out Kris Kobach after AG claims district 'transitions' students Developing . . . Fact check . . . Outside of Kansas City's activist circle . . . A lot of people are VERY SKEPTICAL about the push for slavery reparations. A recent pledge from Mayor Q to fund the effort with another HALF MILLION BUCKS makes it seem like a few people will profit from "the study" of this effort whilst the rest of the community will be left out in the cold. Again. In the meantime . . . Here's a pitch for a local merchant celebration that seems to be hoping more people will sign on to support the sketchy municipal legislation . . . "The Expo arrives at a moment of significant momentum within Kansas Citys reparations movement, following the creation of the citys historic Reparations Commission last year. "Leveraging the energy and focus of the community, the event aims to not just recognize the need for reparations but actively participate in the broader national dialogue and action towards restitution. " Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . In this blast we keep up to date with more than a few stories of convictions and tragic outcomes. Also . . . We share a look at national news considering alleged crimes and challenges confronting police. Check TKC news gathering . . . Kansas City police investigating after video appears to show Black woman called 'animal' during arrest Kansas City, Missouri, police said there is an ongoing investigation and review after video appeared to show an officer refer to a Black woman as an "animal" during an arrest. Kansas City Chiefs fans deaths: 'Hard to see scenario where something unusual didn't happen,' lawyer says Tony Kagay, the attorney for Clayton McGeeney's family, said it would be "very hard to explain" how Jordan Willis didn't realize his friends were "frozen in his backyard for two days." Shawnee man sentenced to over 8 years for 2023 fatal crash involving elderly man A Johnson County judge sentenced Zakary J. Ignowski on Wednesday to just over eight years in prison for a 2023 crash that took the life of a man and critically injured a woman. Woman inmate found dead at Platte County Detention Center, jail officials say An investigation is underway after a woman in custody at the Platte County Detention Center was found dead last week, officials at the jail said. Kansas City man convicted in East Bottoms double homicide | Northeast News Michael BushnellPublisher A Jackson County jury convicted 36-year-old Cleon D. White on Wednesday, January 31 for a double homicide in 2020 in Kansas City's East Bottoms neighborhood. White was convicted... Investigators renew calls for information about missing woman found deceased On the eve of the third anniversary of the day a Clay County woman went missing before she was found dismembered, investigators have renewed calls for information that could lead to an arrest. Kansas City woman discovers her missing car was sold and scrapped A Kansas City woman doesn't have her car after it was taken off her street in the middle of the day. Developing . . . A reminder that low-info voters typically cast their ballot against their own interests. A Super Bowl parade might make that even more likely . . . Check-it: "Any deal the Royals work out would almost certainly go beyond the imposition of a new, regressive sales tax. Look for property tax abatements and tax increment financing also to be part of the mix, meaning that any sales or income tax generated at the new park would be returned to owners to offset the cost of construction. (This includes the earning taxes levied on visiting teams.) Tax revenue otherwise heading to our schools, libraries, mental health services, public safety and infrastructure would be diverted back to John Sherman, the billionaire owner of the Royals. "If he gets his way, Jackson County residents will be taxed more and get less." Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . End game case against this elected official and a reminder that danger in the afterlife isn't a myth. Check-it: "Cape Girardeau County Coroner Wavis Jordan faces three felony counts for providing misinformation, as well as a misdemeanor charge for theft. "In one case, Jordan was given the wallet of a man who died in April, which police said contained money that later disappeared, according to records viewed by The Associated Press. The coroner has denied he took the dead mans money." Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . Missouri coroner accused of stealing money from dead person, mislabeling causes of death A Missouri coroner is accused of stealing money from a dead man's wallet and mislabeling several deaths from drug overdoses or suicide as being "natural." Missouri coroner charged with stealing dead man's money, misstating causes of death Coroner Wavis Jordan of Cape Girardeau County, Missouri, has been criminally charged after allegedly stealing money from a dead person and misstating causes of death. Developing . . . Death Valley National Park is a place of stark beauty and incredible extremes. Located in southeastern California, USA, this national park is the driest, lowest, and hottest spot in North America. It is a landscape that challenges the adventurous at heart, with its scorching deserts, towering peaks, and vast, open spaces. For those seeking an adventure in the USA, Death Valley offers an unmatched experience. Here, you can explore the remarkable terrain, learn about the history, and witness the resilience of wildlife. As the largest national park outside Alaska, Death Valley promises a journey of discovery and awe. Embrace the Heat and Majesty of the Desert In Death Valley, the heat shapes everything. It's a land where summer temperatures soar, creating a harsh yet striking desert landscape. But do not let the heat scare you away. The cooler months offer a perfect time to explore. The park spans over 3.4 million acres, giving you plenty of space to explore its wonders. From the rolling sand dunes to the vast salt flats, Death Valley's scenery is endlessly fascinating. Explore the Diverse Terrain Death Valley's landscape is more than just a desert. It's a place of diverse natural beauty. The park boasts vast sandy expanses, rugged peaks, and deep valleys. You can walk on the salt flats of Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, or hike through colorful canyons and vast open spaces. Every corner of Death Valley offers a new and exciting landscape to discover. Traverse Through History and Culture The park is not only about natural wonders. It's also rich in history and culture. Death Valley was home to the Timbisha Shoshone people, and later, it saw a wave of Gold Rush miners. Today, you can see traces of these past inhabitants. From ancient rock art to abandoned mines, the park is a living museum, telling stories of those who once called this harsh land home. Related Article: National Parks Vandal: Nefarious Graffiti Artist 'Creepytings' Defaces Historical Sites, Travel In The West Never The Same Again? [PHOTOS] Wildlife in the Extremes Despite its harsh conditions, Death Valley is home to a surprising variety of wildlife. Creatures like the bighorn sheep, desert foxes, and kangaroo rats thrive in this extreme environment. These animals have adapted to survive in the heat and scarcity of the desert, making them a fascinating aspect of the park's ecosystem. Stargazing in a Dark Sky At night, Death Valley transforms into one of the best places for stargazing in the USA. The park's remote location and clear skies offer a stunning view of the stars and galaxies above. It is a place where you can sit under the night sky and feel the vastness of the universe, a truly humbling experience. Practical Tips for Your Visit Visiting Death Valley requires preparation. The extreme conditions demand respect and caution. It is essential to stay hydrated and protected from the sun. Given the park's remote nature, ensure you have enough supplies and a plan for emergencies. Remember, cell service is limited, so it's important to be prepared for the challenges of this wild and beautiful place. Read Also: What Are the Best Places in the US to Stargaze and See Celestial Displays? Finnair, Finland's national airline, has started a three-month study at Helsinki airport where passengers can choose to be weighed before their flight. This test, which began on Monday, aims to help the airline save on fuel costs and improve flight safety. Over 600 passengers have already volunteered but some criticize the airline's experiment. Finnair Launches Voluntary Weigh-In Study for Passengers Finnair has launched a unique study at the Helsinki airport, inviting passengers to voluntarily weigh themselves and their carry-on luggage. The study, which began this week, is part of Finnair's effort to better understand the weight on their flights and improve fuel efficiency. As reported by Euronews, the weigh-in is anonymous, and Finnair assures that the data will only be used for improving aircraft balance and calculation. This move has been welcomed by investors, as shown by a 2.3% rise in Finnair's shares after the announcement. Many passengers also support this initiative, praising it for promoting safety and efficiency. Finnair's study comes at a time when airlines are focusing more on reducing fuel consumption and costs. With fuel prices increasing due to recent global events, airlines are exploring different ways to be more economical. For example, United Airlines has started using sustainable jet fuel made from trash to lessen its carbon footprint. However, the study has sparked concerns about privacy and discrimination. Some passengers fear that weight data could be used unfairly or leaked. Others worry about the impact on individuals with eating disorders or medical conditions. These concerns highlight the delicate balance between efficiency and passenger rights. Related Article: Flight 666 Going To HELL On Friday The 13th In light of these concerns, travel influencer Jae'lynn Chaney has petitioned for airlines to adopt more inclusive policies. Finnair's initiative, while innovative, also comes at a time when the airline is dealing with union strikes and flight cancellations. The success of this study and its impact on Finnair's future policies and profitability remains to be seen. Experts Say It's Necessary for Flight Safety After announcing the new policy, experts claim this is crucial for flight safety and has been long overdue. According to Greg Marciniak, a former United States Air Force aircraft electronics expert, the policy is essential. He explained that airlines rely on outdated average weights, but people are generally heavier now than they were decades ago. Without current weight data, planes are 'flying blind,' which is dangerous. According to the Daily Mail, Finnair started this practice in 2017, shifting from European standard weights to its own data. This is to get better averages for safe flying. The airline measures volunteers to calculate accurate weights for different seasons and routes. For instance, in winter, passengers in Finland often carry heavier coats. Meanwhile, Other airlines, like easyJet and Norwegian, stated they have no plans for similar policies, focusing on smooth and quick boarding instead. Wizz Air also expressed concerns about dignity and customer experience. As of now, 800 people have volunteered for Finnair's survey. The airline emphasizes that participation is optional and data collected is anonymous, assuring customers of their commitment to inclusivity and safety. Read Also: Lufthansa Ground Staff Set for Major Strike; Thousands of Flights at Risk The European Commission (EC) is considering increasing the cost of a Schengen visa. The proposed hike is from 80 to 90 euros for adults and 40 to 45 euros for children. This change, if approved, could happen this year, affecting countries without a simplified visa deal with the EU. European Commission Proposes Higher Fees for Schengen Visa The European Commission has recently suggested raising the standard fee for a Schengen visa. The new proposal could see adults paying 90 euros instead of the current 80 euros. For children, the fee may go up from 40 to 45 euros. This increase might be in place before the summer of 2024 if it gets the green light. The Commission's idea is now on its official website. European Union (EU) citizens can review it and share their thoughts until March 1. According to eTurbo News, the change mainly affects countries that do not have an easy visa process with the EU. The proposal also mentions that the cost charged by outside companies to help with visa applications will go up. They may charge up to 45 euros instead of 40 euros. If this new plan is accepted, people from countries without a simple visa agreement with the EU will have to pay more. The total cost for a visa will be 135 euros, which includes a visa fee of 90 euros and a service fee of 45 euros. However, the cost of extending a visa will stay the same at 30 euros. This extension service is not available in some places, like Russia. The European Commission would review the visa fees every three years under this plan. They will consider things like how much prices are going up in the EU and what government workers are paid on average. Related Article: Kosovo Citizens Gain Visa-Free Access to EU's Schengen Zone The decision to raise the Schengen visa fees is up for discussion now. If EU citizens support it, the new rules could start 20 days after publication in the EU's Official Journal. This means getting a Schengen visa could become more expensive before the 2024 summer season begins. EU Approved Digital Schengen Visa Applications In November 2023, the Council of the European Union approved a major change for travelers needing a Schengen visa. This new decision allows people to apply for a Schengen visa online, making the process faster and simpler. The introduction of online Schengen visa applications is a big step. Spanish Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska Gomez highlighted its benefits, saying it will make things easier for travelers and government offices. The new system will speed up the process and make it more efficient. Visa Guide shared that a key part of this change is a single online platform for Schengen visa applications. Applicants can fill in their details, upload necessary documents, and pay the visa fee. They can also get updates on their visa status through this platform. The system will decide which country will handle each application, especially for trips to several Schengen countries. Still, applicants can ask for a specific country to process their visa. Most people won't need to visit consulates in person, except first-timers, those with old biometric data, or with new travel documents. The new rules include a high-tech barcode instead of the traditional visa sticker. This barcode is more secure and reduces the chance of fake visas. Read Also: Spain Opens Doors for Kosovo Passport Holders, Relieving Travel Restrictions CEDAR FALLS More than 3,000 first-graders are expected to participate in the 18th African American Read-In on Feb. 15. Sixty-four schools from public and private school districts from throughout Iowa -- including Mason City -- will join the free virtual event hosted by the University of Northern Iowa College of Education during the virtual event. Its important for kids to learn about the many aspects of diversity, have discussions about diversity and learn about books by African American authors, said coordinator Taraneh Matloob Haghanikar, associate professor of literacy education. This event is designed to connect students and teachers with authors, illustrators and African American literature and arts. Among the presenters are well-known author Michelle H. Martin and award-winning childrens book illustrator R. Gregory Christie. Martin is the Beverly Cleary Endowed Professor in children and youth services in the Information School at the University of Washington. She will read Wheres Rodney?, written by Carmen Bogan and illustrated by Floyd Cooper. I grew up as a Girl Scout and spent a lot of time out in the woods and nature. I discovered several years ago that there were almost no books about Black kids enjoying the outdoors. 'Rodney' hits that sweet spot, said Martin. It's the story of a Black boy from the city who is amazed and thrilled when a field trip takes him to a national park where he can explore nature. As co-founder of the nonprofit Camp Read-a-Rama, which uses childrens book as a springboard for literacy immersion programming, she believes in reducing the distance between books and real life. Virtual events like the African American Read-In provide greater access to literary experiences, Martin said. "If you have to have buses and lunches and travel and all of that, you wouldn't be able to get a powerhouse like R. Gregory Christie in front of 3,000 children." Christie will lead a draw-along with students. He is known for his programs on art, diversity and literature and is a past Caldecott Honor and NAACP Image Award winner. Leigh Zeitz, an associate professor in UNIs department of curriculum and instruction, will provide a brief magic show between the read-along and draw-along activities. We also have a Facebook page thats new this year, where weve started posting excellent African American books and lesson plans so teachers can add them to their everyday lessons, said Matloob Haghanikar. We want to make it practical for teachers to go beyond this event and learn more about African American literature and authors. The Facebook group is designed for first-grade teachers and UNI faculty and students interested in book discussions, for example, and showcasing student work. Last year about 2,000 students participated. It was the first year the read-in was extended fully across the state. This years effort has further broadened the events reach, providing access to more first-graders and their schools, Matloob Haghanikar explained. Registered schools will be provided a link to access Read-In activities. Registration includes first graders from a mix of 147 mostly public, but also private, school classrooms in 64 schools and 29 counties from across the state, including the additions of Linn, Cerro Gordo, Jackson, Jones and Chickasaw. Among the districts and communities participating are Ames, Anita, Bellevue, Burlington, Cedar Falls, Cedar Rapids, Danville, Davenport, Denver, Des Moines, Dike-New Hartford, Dubuque, Dunkerton, Fort Dodge, Independence, Iowa City, Janesville, Jesup, Johnston, Manchester, Mason City, Monticello, Moville, New Hampton, Oelwein, Osage, Ossian, Ottumwa, Peosta, Radcliffe, Ruby-Van Meter, Sioux City, Sloan, Spencer, Tabor, Tama, Union-La Porte City and Waverly. The read-in was originally organized by the late Gloria Kirkland Holmes, a UNI emerita early education professor. Matloob Haghanikar was asked to step in to coordinate the event. I know her passion was to introduce children to African American literature. I think she would be proud of what were doing, Haghanikar added. The National African American Read-In is sponsored by the Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of English and endorsed by the international Reading Association. What's the impact of teacher experience on student success across the US? What's the impact of teacher experience on student success across the US? Teacher experience by subject Those people are our people too. The words of UNC Senator David Nakhid, following the deadly The rusting of northern Alaska streams Photo by Josh Koch The Kugororuk River flows from the mountains in northern Alaska in June 2023. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. During these late winter days, researchers who are studying the rusty discoloration of northern Alaska streams are prepping for summer field trips. Jon ODonnell of the National Park Service is one of a team of scientists who will float rivers and streams in Kobuk Valley National Park and Noatak National Preserve in 2024. He and his co-workers will be armed with equipment designed to help understand what is making northern rivers turn orange, and how dangerous it might be to people, plants and fish. In the past decade, scientists such as Roman Dial of Alaska Pacific University and Paddy Sullivan of the University of Alaska Anchorage noticed on their long traverses that waterways they had remembered to be as clear as gin were suddenly flowing orange. Some investigation and deep thought has led to this hypothesis: Though rivers and streams of the far North have probably turned rusty naturally to some extent for a long time, things got more intense after 2018, said Josh Koch of the U.S. Geological Survey Alaska Science Center in Anchorage. Its not totally unprecedented, but the scale and intensity seem to be something new, Koch said during a December 2023 presentation at the American Geophysical Union Fall Meeting in San Francisco. The oranging of northern rivers seems to be related to recent permafrost thaw that has allowed streams to release previously captive iron, trace metals and acid. Under colder climates in the past, these minerals were protected from weathering and interactions with groundwater, ODonnell said. ODonnell, Koch and others with the two agencies had the good fortune of in 2017 setting up a station to monitor stream chemistry and the living creatures present there in a clear tributary of the Akillik River in Kobuk Valley National Park. When they returned in August 2018, they noticed their clear little creek had turned orange like so many others they had been noticing. Photo by Jon ODonnell A tributary flows into the Akillik River in Kobuk Valley National Park in 2017 before it turned rusty orange. Photo by Jon ODonnell A tributary flows into the Akillik River in Kobuk Valley National Park in August 2018 after it had turned rusty orange. This seemed like a strange disturbance that we should try and understand. But in general, it seemed anomalous, ODonnell said. I hadn't seen anything like it in the Brooks Range. I figured our data could tell a cool story, or at least provide an interesting anecdote. But I was completely unaware of the scale. During that visit by helicopter in 2018, ODonnell, Koch and USGS biologist Mike Carey noticed a complete loss of resident fish like Dolly Varden and slimy sculpin, Koch said. The creek had also become more acidic, fed by groundwater seeps with a pH reading of about 2, stronger than most off-the-shelf vinegar. The scientists think the fish may have moved somewhere else as their creek was becoming unlivable. We observed a steep decline in stoneflies, mayflies and other aquatic larvae (which are food for fish), ODonnell said. Its likely that the fish migrated out. Researchers have noticed more than 70 orange streams spanning the Brooks Range from the lower Noatak River to the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in the east. Because the phenomenon can often be seen in a satellite view of an area, ODonnell and his colleagues found many of those streams changed color in the last 10 years. Streams have the ability to clear themselves. Sometimes, heavy summer rains can overwhelm the particles of iron and other trace metals, clearing the water while rocks remained stained. Permafrost within and surrounding a stream can also recover due to extreme cold conditions or lack of snowfall. That could lock up the reactive minerals. On their northern explorations in summer 2024, Koch, ODonnell and other scientists will try to determine how bad the orange streams are for fish and the tiny things they eat. High levels of trace metals like copper, nickel and zinc are not good for living things. It seems likely theres a toxic effect, but we dont know yet, Koch said. Since the late 1970s, the University of Alaska Fairbanks' Geophysical Institute has provided this column free in cooperation with the UAF research community. Ned Rozell is a science writer for the Geophysical Institute. Hi, my name is Scott C. Waring and I wrote a few books and am currently a ESL School Owner in Taiwan. I have had my own UFO sighting up close and personal, but that's how it works right? A non believer becomes a believer when they experience their first sighting. You witnessed it, your perceptual field changes, so now you need to share it. I created this site to help the UFO community get a little bit organized. I noticed that there was a lot of chaos when searching for UFO sighting reports, so I hope this site helps. I wanted to support those eyewitnesses who have tried to tell others about what they have seen, yet were laughed at by even closest of friends. More and more each day the governments of the world leak bits and pieces of UFO information to the public. They have a trickle down theory in hopes of slowly getting citizens use to the idea that we are not alone in universe and never have been. The truth is being leaked drop by drop until one day we look around and find ourselves neck high in it. The discovery of alien species in existence is the most monumental scientific event in human history, suppression of that information is a crime against humanity. About me: I live in Taiwan. I OWN MY OWN ENGLISH SCHOOL, AND ONCE HAD 5 SCHOOLS. Am Former USAF at SAC base (flight line). Age: 42 Educ: BA in Elem ed. Masters in Counseling ed. I had two UFO sightings, (30+bus size orbs) in military and in 2012 personally saw the UFO over Taipei 101 building on New Years Day (and recored it). Cooperation between Kherson region and the Netherlands continues and is at a high level. This was stated by the head of the press office of the Kherson Regional Military Administration (RMA), Oleksandr Tolokonnikov, at a briefing at the Ukraine Media Center - Uninform, commenting on information from one of the deputy heads of the Regional Military Administration that the Netherlands is very cautious about the option of patronage of Kherson region. "No, I can't confirm this information... The Netherlands continues to work," Tolokonnikov said. He noted that the work is ongoing and at a "high level." Tolokonnikov reminded that Dmytro Butriy, the first deputy head of the Kherson Regional Military Administration, made a study visit to the Netherlands at the end of last year as part of the project "Support for the Restoration of Local Self-Government and the Recovery and Reconstruction of Communities in Ukraine." At the same time, the head of the press office emphasized that the Kherson region also cooperates with other countries. As reported by the Kherson edition of Most, citing Mykhailo Lemak, deputy head of the Kherson Regional Military Administration, the Netherlands is currently very cautious about the option of patronage of Kherson. As reported by Ukrinform, Dmytro Butriy, First Deputy Head of Kherson Regional State Administration, paid a study visit to the Kingdom of the Netherlands as part of the project "Support for the Restoration of Local Self-Government and the Recovery and Reconstruction of Communities in Ukraine." At a meeting with representatives of the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO), the Kherson Regional Military Administration presented community recovery projects. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands confirmed that it will provide financial support for the reconstruction of the region. In January 2024, the head of the Kherson Regional Military Administration, Oleksandr Prokudin, said that the region is now laying the foundation that will help it get back on its feet in terms of international activities when the security situation allows. According to him, Sweden and the Netherlands have been "assigned" to the region, and the regional authorities are in constant contact with the ambassadors of these countries. The head of the Regional Military Administration also informed about the memorandums signed with the German state of Schleswig-Holstein, the Polish city of Rzeszow, Bulgarian Burgas, Finnish Vaasa, and Swedish Norrkoping, and about the relevant plans, in particular, for Canada. | By Laura Lee The Jan. 6 U.S. Capitol attack was a "textbook" insurrection, University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law professor Mark Graber, PhD, JD, MA, argues in a Supreme Court amicus brief backing efforts to disqualify former President Donald Trump from future office. The brief supports a Colorado Supreme Court decision that barred Trump from the states ballot based on Section 3 of the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. That section bars from office anyone who previously took an oath to support the Constitution but then engaged in insurrection or rebellion. Trumps legal team has appealed the Colorado decision and the case Trump v. Anderson went before the U.S. Supreme Court on Feb. 8. Graber, a University System of Maryland Regents Professor at Maryland Carey Law and a leading scholar on constitutional law, argues Section 3s meaning was well-established when enacted after the Civil War. His brief cites over 30 federal and state court rulings defining insurrection as an assemblage resisting law by force or intimidation for a public purpose. All of them talk about insurrection, and all of them say approximately the same thing, Graber says, giving the four key elements he says were met on Jan. 6. Graber explains insurrection has four legal elements. First is an assemblage of people. Hundreds of people breached the Capitol and thousands trespassed on federal land. Second is "resisting law. Rioters tried to stop Congress from certifying Trump's election loss. Third is using force or intimidation. The mob violently assaulted police officers who were trying to defend the Capitol. Fourth is "a public purpose. Rioters acted on Trump's baseless claim of a stolen election. They had a public purpose. Its documented Donald Trump was told your rhetoric is causing violence, Graber says. What did Trump do? He doubled the intensity, the rhetoric. Citing Trump's rhetoric falsely claiming election fraud and urging supporters to fight, Graber argues there's a strong case he engaged in insurrection. He says Trumps defense relies on technicalities rather than contesting that claim. Graber says Trumps legal teams assertion that Section 3 doesn't cover presidents is a bad and rather desperate argument. He notes historical references to presidents as officers of the United States and says ratifiers of the amendment understood it would apply. We know the people who wrote Section 3 refer to the president as an officer of the United States, Graber says. We know in the debates over ratification, everybody said if youre an officer and you engage in insurrection you cant be an officer. Barring those regarded as traitors from office was precisely the point, he says. If you think Donald Trump was a traitor who engaged in an insurrection against the United States, why would you ever vote for him? Graber says. Graber began researching Section 3 while writing a book on the 14th Amendment titled Punish Treason, Reward Loyalty: The Forgotten Goals of Constitutional Reform After the Civil War before the Capitol attack brought the issue to the forefront. He and another scholar have since been tapped as experts in cases seeking to invoke whats known as the disqualification clause against Trump. In fact, Grabers historical and legal testimony was instrumental in the removal of Otero County, New Mexico Commissioner Couy Griffin due to his involvement in the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol. According to lawyers who brought the case, the decision marks the first time since 1869 that a court has disqualified a public official under Section 3 and the first time that any court ruled the events of Jan. 6, 2021, an insurrection. Ultimately, Graber views Section 3 as upholding a core tenet of democracy that following fair elections, candidates must accept defeat peacefully rather than resort to violence. Once ballots are counted, there is no recourse to bullets, Graber says, quoting Abraham Lincoln. Those who have recourse to violence after votes should not be candidates for democratic government. The Globe Gazette took home four awards Thursday night at the Iowa Newspaper Association's 2024 Better Newspaper Contest in Des Moines. Globe Gazette staff writer Robin McClelland won first place in the category of Best Continuing Coverage for articles depicting the fire that destroyed the Kirk Apartments and its aftermath. The judges commented on McClelland's reporting: "A lot of writers would have reported on the fire itself and then moved on to something else, but this series seems to recognize the significance beyond that: A number of families, many probably already struggling, now find themselves having to rebuild, and how the community is responding." McClelland also was awarded third place for Best Breaking News Story for her original report on the blaze. The judges noted, "Nice work getting such good witness quotes, particularly the kicker at the end from the apartment owner. The breaking story did a great job setting up what I assume was the follow-up." Former Globe Gazette staff writer Matthew Rezab won second place for Best Breaking News Photo in Class IV for his picture depicting Mason City firefighters battling the blaze that destroyed the Kirk Apartments. The judges said the photo provided a "good view of breaking news. Well done technically." Globe Gazette staff writer Alexander Schmidt won second place for Best Personality Feature Story for his June 26 story "Dicks Country: Farmer winds down Hayfield elevator operation" about Dick Formanek ending decades at his Hayfield business. The judges said of the article: "Sometimes less is more, and this story illustrates that well. ... This gives a clear glimpse at this man's life and personality. Yes, he's a lot like a lot of farmers. But he's also his own man, and that comes through." Entries were were judged by the Illinois Press Association. Approximately 2,879 entries in dozens of categories were judged by class, based on circulation. The Globe Gazette competed in Class IV, which includes small newspapers that publish multiple times a week. The awards were handed out as part of the Iowa Newspaper Association's annual convention and awards ceremony banquet Thursday night in Des Moines. PHOTOS: Kirk Apartments in Mason City destroyed by huge fire Kirk Apartments fire 1 Kirk Apartments fire 2 Kirk Apartments fire 3 Kirk Apartments fire 4 Kirkwood Apartments 5 Kirkwood Apartment fire 6 Kirkwood Apartment fire 7 Kirk Apartments fire 8 Advise needed on applying in R4 for the Cambridge MBA [ #permalink Hi, I am an 33 year old Indian male with 9.5 years of work experience, including 3 years as an IT engineer with international experience, 6.5 years of consulting and program management at not-for-profits and governments, worked across diverse sectors. GRE - 332, GPA 7.6 in undergrad and 7.4 in masters in social sciences. Extra curricular include - president at student clubs and a certified fitness trainer. Ive postponed applying to b-schools last few years due to promotions, but realised Ive reached the ceiling in terms of growth and wouldnt gain much waiting for another year to apply, so keen on applying this year and Cambridge is my only choice. Worried about being too late applying in R4. Ive already been advised to apply executive programs by a few others, which I am not open to and I am concerned that another year might hurt my chances to gain entry to the Judges MBA program. Please advise. Also, would be happy to note if there are other schools that I could consider this year. Thanks for considering my request. Posted from my mobile device In a landmark development, the U.S. Education Department has orchestrated the resignation of two senior executives at the International Education Corporation (IEC), the parent company overseeing the troubled for-profit chain, Florida Career College (FCC). This historic move comes as part of a settlement agreement and marks the first time the department has wielded such authority, ushering in a new era of accountability in the for-profit education sector. The Scandal Unveiled: FCC's Misconduct and Cheating Allegations At the center of this controversy is FCC, a chain of 11 campuses slated for closure on February 15. The U.S. Education Department's investigation, initiated in April, uncovered compelling evidence pointing to cheating on the "ability to benefit" (ATB) tests by FCC officials. These tests determine the eligibility of students without a high school diploma for federal financial aid, a critical lifeline for many seeking postsecondary education. Kristen Donoghue, Chief Enforcement Officer at the Office of Federal Student Aid, revealed, "What caused us to take unprecedented steps was evidence showing that FCC was focused on maximizing enrollment and therefore Title IV dollars at all costs." Title IV, a part of the Higher Education Act, authorizes federal financial aid programs. FCC's alleged misconduct, driven by a relentless pursuit of enrollment numbers, jeopardized the educational and financial futures of thousands of students. The consequence of the investigation was a decision by the Education Department in April to cut off FCC's access to federal financial aid by September. The initial closure deadline was later extended to the end of January, allowing enrolled students to complete their programs. Federal data indicates that approximately 12,000 students were enrolled in FCC's programs across the 11 campuses in 2021. READ ALSO: U.S. Education Department Expands Discrimination Investigations To Arizona State, Northwestern, Yale, And Abraham Lincoln University Unraveling the Settlement: Accountability Measures and Resignations The settlement agreement with IEC not only addresses the FCC debacle but also encompasses ongoing investigations into two other IEC-owned chains-United Education Institute and UEI College. The gravity of FCC's transgressions prompted the U.S. Education Department to demand the resignation of two senior executives at IEC-a move unprecedented in the department's history. IEC initially contested the department's allegations, but the settlement brings an end to the company's appeal, solidifying the decision. Under the agreement, IEC commits not to appeal the FCC decision and to extend a letter of credit to cover any liabilities associated with the closure, capped at $6,015,824. CEO Fardad Fateri, who has been at the helm of IEC since 2008, emphasized in a statement that the settlement represents the "very best outcome" for students, employers, and campus communities. Despite the company's initial resistance, the settlement showcases IEC's dedication to transparency, accountability, and regulatory compliance. Additionally, the settlement introduces provisional certification for United Education Institute and UEI College for three years. This certification subjects the institutions to stringent rules, including blocking the use of ATB tests for financial aid qualification and requiring the preservation of recruitment materials and student complaint records. These measures aim to enhance oversight and protect the interests of students and the integrity of federal student aid programs. Setting a Precedent: The Department's Commitment to Accountability The Education Department's resolute commitment to accountability is evident in this groundbreaking settlement. While settlements with the department are not uncommon, this agreement stands out due to its unprecedented provisions and the enforcement of resignations of top executives. The department's proactive approach aims to ensure that individuals at the highest echelons of for-profit education companies are held accountable for any wrongdoing. As the Federal Student Aid's Enforcement Office continues to investigate allegations of wrongdoing, this landmark settlement sets a new standard for accountability in the for-profit education sector. By not only addressing the immediate issue with FCC but also implementing stringent measures for other IEC-owned institutions, the department sends a clear message that misconduct will not be tolerated. The settlement agreement with IEC marks a watershed moment in the efforts to regulate and hold accountable the for-profit education sector. The U.S. Education Department's decisive actions reflect a commitment to protecting the interests of students and maintaining the integrity of federal financial aid programs. The repercussions of this settlement are likely to resonate throughout the industry, ushering in a new era of heightened scrutiny and accountability for those entrusted with shaping the educational futures of thousands of students. RELATED ARTICLE: FAFSA Woes: Education Department's $50 Million Plan Falls Short Of Expectations Amidst allegations of a cover-up and misconduct within Seton Hall University's Board of Regents, the institution faces a legal firestorm as former President Joseph R. Nyre files a 63-page lawsuit. The legal complaint, filed in New Jersey Superior Court, contends that Nyre faced retaliation for accusing board members of concealing alleged misbehavior by the board's former chairman. Nyre's abrupt resignation last summer, less than four years into his tenure, sent shockwaves through the Roman Catholic university. The lawsuit sheds light on a complex web of accusations involving sexual harassment and gender discrimination against Kevin H. Marino, a prominent criminal lawyer who served as the Chair of the Board of Regents until the summer of Nyre's resignation. The legal battle now seeks damages for Nyre and his wife, one of the reported victims of harassment. Additionally, Nyre seeks reinstatement, asserting that his departure amounted to "constructive discharge." Seton Hall University, in response to the lawsuit, issued a statement dismissing the claims as "completely without merit" and vowed to vigorously contest them. A President's Allegations and the Board's Response Nyre's legal complaint alleges that the Board of Regents failed to conduct a thorough investigation into the charges of sexual harassment and gender discrimination against Marino. The former president claims that he faced retaliation for bringing these allegations to light and attempting to address the alleged misconduct within the university's leadership. The lawsuit refrains from naming Marino as a defendant, but his attorney, Christopher Porrino, released a statement vehemently denying the accusations. Porrino asserted that Marino "categorically denies the false and defamatory allegations" made against him in the Nyres' lawsuit. The lawyer for Marino further indicated an intention to pursue legal action against the Nyres, characterizing the lawsuit as "frivolous and disgraceful." READ ALSO: Department Of Education Investigates Drexel University For Discrimination Allegations Seton Hall's Defiant Stance and the Road Ahead Seton Hall University's firm denial of the allegations sets the stage for a contentious legal battle. In its statement, the university declared the claims to be without merit and signaled an unwavering commitment to contesting the accusations. The institution remains tight-lipped on the specifics of the case, stating, "Beyond this, we will not be commenting on this matter." The lawsuit not only places a spotlight on the alleged misconduct within the university's leadership but also raises questions about the internal governance and accountability mechanisms in place. Nyre's claim of constructive discharge suggests that he perceives his resignation as a result of intolerable working conditions created by the alleged retaliation, potentially impacting his professional reputation. A Challenging Chapter for Seton Hall University As the legal proceedings unfold, Seton Hall University must navigate the delicate balance between addressing the serious allegations made by Nyre and defending the integrity of its leadership and decision-making processes. The outcome of this legal battle could have lasting implications for the university's reputation, its commitment to transparency, and the broader conversation surrounding accountability within academic institutions. Seton Hall University finds itself at a crossroads as it grapples with the fallout from the explosive lawsuit filed by its former president. The allegations of a cover-up, retaliation, and misconduct within the university's leadership demand a thorough and transparent investigation. The legal battle that ensues will not only determine the fate of the individuals involved but also shape the narrative of Seton Hall's commitment to accountability and ethical governance. As the academic community watches closely, the outcome of this case will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark on the university's legacy. RELATED ARTICLE: Financial Aid Antitrust Lawsuit: Settlements At Emory, Rice, And Vanderbilt Signal Potential Shift In Legal Battle In a noteworthy development, the U.S. Education Department has launched a second civil rights investigation into Harvard University, focusing on allegations of shared-ancestry discrimination. This revelation comes amid a surge in concerns related to potential violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1965, a mandate requiring federally funded institutions to safeguard students from discrimination based on race, color, or national origin. Harvard Under Scrutiny The genesis of this latest probe lies in a complaint filed by the Muslim Legal Fund of America, asserting that Harvard failed to adequately protect Arab and Muslim students, along with those supporting Palestine, from harassment and threats. This move follows the department's ongoing investigation into Harvard's response to alleged harassment targeting Jewish students. The accusations, if substantiated, could raise questions about the university's commitment to fostering an inclusive and safe environment for students of diverse backgrounds. Harvard's handling of these incidents has come under scrutiny, with accusations that the university did not effectively address the harassment faced by students. In her critique, Chelsea Glover, a senior staff attorney at the Muslim Legal Fund, condemned Harvard's reaction, claiming officials neglected harassed students and prioritized influential donors. READ ALSO: Want To Study Like A Harvard Student? Here Are 10 Study Tips And Tricks Broader Investigations: Rising Antisemitic and Islamophobic Incidents The Education Department's decision to initiate a second investigation at Harvard is part of a broader trend, with several other institutions added to the list of ongoing investigations. Notably, the University of Michigan, the New School in New York, Indiana University, and the University of South Florida have also come under scrutiny. The department's list encompasses colleges, universities, and K-12 school districts, with investigations initiated based on potential shared-ancestry violations of Title VI. The urgency surrounding these investigations is amplified by the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas conflict, which triggered a notable rise in antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents on campuses. Since the conflict's onset, the Education Department has opened 44 investigations into potential shared-ancestry violations at educational institutions across the United States. The details of these investigations remain unspecified beyond the broad umbrella of possible shared-ancestry violations. However, the overarching objective is to evaluate whether federally funded institutions have fulfilled their obligations in creating an inclusive and safe environment for students from diverse backgrounds. Implications for Universities: Balancing Free Speech and Inclusivity As the investigations unfold, universities find themselves under increased pressure to address instances of discrimination promptly and transparently. The allegations against Harvard underscore the complex challenges universities face in navigating the delicate balance between protecting free speech and ensuring the safety and well-being of all students. Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1965 plays a pivotal role in ensuring equal protection against discrimination for all students in federally funded institutions. The investigations seek to assess whether these institutions have effectively upheld their responsibilities in fostering inclusive and respectful academic environments. The outcomes of these investigations hold implications for the future of campus policies and practices related to shared-ancestry discrimination. Universities across the country will be closely watching as the Education Department navigates this intricate terrain, grappling with the challenge of striking a balance that promotes diversity, protects free speech, and ensures the well-being of every student. Toward a More Inclusive Academic Environment Harvard's dual investigations underscore the broader imperative for educational institutions to proactively address shared-ancestry discrimination. As the Education Department probes potential violations, universities are compelled to introspect on their mechanisms for fostering inclusivity and responding to incidents of harassment. The heightened scrutiny on Harvard and other institutions reflects a collective effort to ensure that universities remain bastions of learning that prioritize the well-being and dignity of all students. While the investigations unfold, the academic community eagerly awaits the outcomes, recognizing the potential for these inquiries to reshape campus dynamics and advance the cause of inclusivity in higher education. RELATED ARTICLE: Harvard Plagiarism Scandal Sparks Campus Culture Clash Over AI-Powered Detection In a massive show of opposition, approximately 15,000 students took to the streets of Athens to protest against the Greek government's proposed higher education reforms. The demonstrations are part of a broader movement now entering its fifth week, with around 150 university faculties across Greece being occupied by students. Challenges to Proposed Reforms The heart of the protest revolves around the government's plan to allow private non-profit universities to begin accepting applications from September 2025. Critics, including students and professors, argue that this move will exacerbate the existing underfunding of public universities. Eleni Iatrou, an agronomy student at the University of the Peloponnese, expressed concerns about the potential fallout, stating, "If private universities also start offering degrees, state funding for public universities will fall even further." Students fear that the introduction of private institutions may divert essential resources away from public education. READ ALSO: American University Bans Indoor Protests, Sparking Debate On Free Speech And Campus Safety Quality Concerns and Professor Opposition Students and professors alike are vocalizing concerns about the quality and accessibility of education under the proposed reforms. The fear is that private universities, driven by profit motives, may lower entry requirements but charge substantial fees, resulting in a two-tiered system that disadvantages those unable to afford expensive private education. Alexandra Balantina, a musicology professor at the Ionian University of Corfu, emphasized the lack of quality guarantees at private institutions, stating, "There is no guarantee of quality at private universities, and the cost of studying will rise." This sentiment is echoed by some 200 professors who signed a petition condemning the government's efforts and refused to participate in online exams in faculties where students are staging sit-ins. Government's Perspective and Pledged Reforms The Greek government, led by Kyriakos Pierrakakis, the minister in charge of education, defends the reforms as "taboo-breaking" and asserts that they will enhance the international appeal of Greek public universities. The proposed changes aim to allow partnerships between Greek public universities and prestigious foreign academic institutions, offering students greater opportunities for international exposure. The government, however, faces significant opposition, with critics questioning the need for such reforms when Greek universities could potentially form partnerships independently. Moreover, the chronic neglect of public education is a pressing issue that demands attention. Concerns About the State of Greek Public Education Protesters argue that introducing private universities is just one element of the Greek conservative government's broader privatization agenda, which has been underway since 2019. The state of public Greek universities is already dire, plagued by dilapidated infrastructure, political interference in student affairs, and instances of violence and vandalism. Dimitra Hatzivassili, a nursing student at the University of Thessaly, points out that the proposed reforms are part of a pattern of privatization initiatives by the government. The neglect of public education is evident in the dilapidated conditions of many universities and the World Bank's report that Greece spent only 7.1 percent of its government budget on education in 2020, the lowest percentage in at least 25 years. Student Perspectives on Potential Outcomes Students like Kostas Stathopoulos, a 24-year-old law student, express concerns about the job market's capacity to absorb the increased number of graduates if private universities are introduced. Stathopoulos argues that the reform may exacerbate youth unemployment in Greece and further disadvantage graduates from less affluent backgrounds. In a recent incident in the northeastern city of Komotini, 18 students were detained by police during an attempt to disband a university sit-in, highlighting the tensions surrounding the proposed reforms. Student protests have a history of disrupting and, at times, escalating into violence in response to previous conservative government attempts to reform higher education in Greece. As the protests continue and the government pushes to enshrine the reforms into law by the end of February, the debate over the future of Greek higher education remains a complex and contentious issue. RELATED ARTICLE: Walkout Protest Greets Controversial President's First Day At Youngstown State University Savvas Learning Company, a prominent provider of digital instructional materials for K-12 school districts, has ventured into the realm of online higher education through its recent acquisition of ed-tech startup Outlier.org. The New Jersey-based company aims to bridge the gap between high school and college by enabling high schoolers to take online college courses through dual-enrollment programs. While the terms of the deal remain undisclosed, the new venture is already branded as Outlier by Savvas, signaling the company's foray into this evolving education space. Empowering High School Students With College Credit Opportunities Savvas CEO Bethlam Forsa highlights a critical issue faced by high schools across the country-challenges in offering college credit opportunities due to factors such as transportation limitations, staffing constraints, or logistical hurdles. With Savvas' widespread presence in K-12 education, Forsa envisions addressing this gap by providing millions of high school students, already familiar with Savvas tools, the chance to seamlessly integrate college courses into their local classrooms. "There's a growing demand for dual-enrollment and dual-credit opportunities for high school students across the country," Forsa emphasizes, emphasizing the need to empower students with the ability to engage in college-level coursework while still in high school. As of June 2022, a majority of states and Washington, D.C., permit dual enrollment and/or dual credits for high school students interested in undertaking college-level courses, according to the Education Commission of the States website. READ ALSO: Survey By Forbes Reveals Students College Choices Increasingly Influenced By Affordability Outlier.org's Unique Approach to Dual-Enrollment Courses Outlier.org, the ed-tech startup acquired by Savvas, specializes in creating online college courses tailored for high schoolers participating in dual-enrollment programs. The platform offers transferable courses transcripted and overseen by the University of Pittsburgh. Successful completion of two-year programs in specific majors results in an associate's degree from Golden Gate University in San Francisco. Outlier's transfer network includes 18 colleges and universities, allowing students to apply the credits earned through Outlier toward degree programs at these institutions. The structure of Outlier's courses aligns with the typical high school calendar and daily schedule, featuring 14- to 15-week semesters, 39 weeks for a full academic year, and class sessions designed for standard 45-minute school periods. The platform enables high school teachers to facilitate college-level instruction in real-time within their classrooms using an intuitive dashboard, according to the company's news release. Beyond higher education courses, Outlier.org extends its offerings to workforce training and professional certificate programs in collaboration with leading technology companies such as Meta, Google, and Salesforce. This expansion aligns with the evolving landscape of education, emphasizing the importance of preparing students not only for traditional academic paths but also for emerging career opportunities. Aligning With Educational Trends and Mission Outlier.org CEO Aaron Rasmussen emphasizes the support and enthusiasm from high school administrators for the concept of dual-credit courses. He sees these initiatives as vital in preparing students for the academic challenges of postsecondary education while simultaneously making degree programs more affordable and accessible, particularly for historically underrepresented student groups. Rasmussen expresses gratitude to university partners, educators, students, and team members who have contributed to Outlier's mission of providing access to college and career learning, transcending geographical and socioeconomic barriers. This strategic move marks Savvas Learning Company's third acquisition in as many years. The company's expansion into higher education follows the acquisition of Whooo's Reading in March, incorporating artificial intelligence into reading and writing instruction. A year prior, Savvas acquired Rubicon Publishing Inc., a Canadian company specializing in digital math tools. These acquisitions collectively position Savvas as a comprehensive education solutions provider across various educational levels and domains. RELATED ARTICLE: Top 10 Universities For Superior Website Design And Management The Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield in Virginia, will host a session Feb. 20 on a new health care opportunity for small businesses. Known as the WiseChoice Healthcare Alliance, it aims to educate, empower and lower costs for businesses when it comes to health care. Small business owners consistently tell us that rising health care costs is a main concern, Anne Moore-Sparks, president and CEO of the Danville Pittsylvania Chamber of Commerce, said in a statement. WiseChoice is a great option for employers to consider because it provides broad access to small businesses, delivers lower costs of coverage, ensures quality coverage, offers strong consumer protections, and maintains financial security and solvency. Small businesses are able to pool together as one large self-funded group, according to a news release. In turn, that allows claims to spread over a larger group, lowering administration costs. The end result is savings for the workers. Businesses with between 2 and 50 employees work with a local chamber to get access to WiseChoice. Locally, a one-hour seminar will be conducted by Kellie Jo David, of Anthem, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Feb. 20 in the Barkhouser Auditorium at the Institute for Advanced Learning, located at 150 Slayton Ave. in Danville. Coffee and light refreshments will be served. Space is limited to 125 participants. While there is no cost to attend but registration is required at https://bit.ly/WiseChoiceHealthSeminar. RAWALPINDI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 10th Feb, 2024) The security forces on Friday killed a high-profile terrorist, who was associated with Daesh and involved in recent bombing attacks in Balochistan, during an intelligence-based operation in Qilla Saifullah district. According to the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), the operation was conducted by the security forces on the reported presence of the high profile terrorist Abdul Shakoor alias Nauman alias Abu Hamza Khurasani of Daesh. The ISPR said that the terrorist was the mastermind of Februray 7 bombings in Qila Saifullah and Pishin, and highly wanted by the law enforcement agencies. "He had also planned to conduct high profile suicide bombing attacks in Balochistan, which were successfully averted due to timely and prompt action by the security forces and the intelligence agencies," it added. "The security forces of Pakistan, in step with the nation, remain determined to thwart attempts of sabotaging peace, stability and progress of Balochistan," the ISPR said. UNITED NATIONS, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 9th Feb, 2024) Pakistan has warned that human security was not possible without allowing the people to exercise their fundamental right to self-determination, like those struggling for freedom in Palestine and Indian Occupied Kashmir. "Human Security cannot be guaranteed when people over the world are denied their fundamental right to self-determination," Senator Mohsin Aziz, the Pakistani representative, told the Annual Parliamentary Hearing, a joint initiative between the President of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU). UNGA President Dennis Francis and IPU President Tulia Ackson are hosting some 300 participants, including parliamentarians, Speakers of Parliament, advisers and experts, from more than 70 countries at the UN Headquarters in New York, USA. Organizers said the theme of this joint IPU-UN hearing will align with the IPUs Primary focus in 2024 on peace and international security, which is also one of the priorities of the current presidency of the UN General Assembly. In his remarks at the Hearing, Senator Aziz said that the past four months have illustrated the consequences of the suppression of the right to self-determination of the Palestinian people -- over 27,000 civilians killed by the Israeli onslaught in Gaza, mostly women and children. "The deliberate obstructions of humanitarian aid have further exacerbated the suffering of 2 million displaced Palestinians," the Pakistan representative said. In this regard, Senator Aziz reaffirmed Pakistan's full support and solidarity with the Palestinian brothers and sisters in these tragic times. "How much more blood, starvation, brutality and misery the world has to witness before we can come to a ceasefire and a reduction in the suffering of Palestinians in general," he asked. Senator Aziz also drew the attention of the gathering to the denial of the right to self-determination to the people of Jammu & Kashmir where over 100,000 people have been martyred in their freedom struggle. The Kashmir tragedy, he said, has intensified after the unilateral measures taken by India on the 5th of August 2019. More than 900,000 occupation troops have unleashed a brutal crackdown, committing extrajudicial killings, and abducting 15,000 Kashmiri youth. "Simultaneously, a concerted effort is underway to change the demographic structure and composition of the occupied territory, a direct violation of the resolutions of the Security Council," the Pakistani representative added. As regards the situation in post-American-withdrawal Afghanistan, Senator Aziz said the threat from terrorist organizations, within and from that country persists. In addition to TTP and ISIS, he said, the Islamic State of Khorasan, an offshoot of ISIS, which is hiding in Afghanistan, was responsible for an increasing number of terrorist attacks in Pakistan. "If left unchecked they can threaten the peace of other countries and regions as well. " In conclusion, Senator Aziz reiterated that "achieving human security will not be possible without ensuring peace, security, and stability, and without allowing people to exercise their fundamental right to self-determination." APP/ift USM Students Immersed into Diverse Ecosystems during Study Abroad Trip to Belize Fri, 02/09/2024 - 10:04am | By: Ivonne Kawas Students at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) used the January 2024 intercession to immerse themselves into diverse ecosystems during a two-week tropical ecology study abroad trip to the Central American country of Belize. USM professors of ecology and organismal biology in the School of Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences, Dr. Mac Alford (expert in botany) and Dr. Nicole Phillips (expert in marine biology), served as the guides for the students as they learned about the local tropical flora and fauna and visited several different ecosystems: coral reefs, pine savannahs, rainforests, and mangrove swamps. For many students, this study abroad class tends to be their first overseas experience, and our hope is that it changes their lives for the better, said Dr. Phillips. We hope it broadens their horizons, opens them to new avenues of biological research, and fosters awareness of global environmental issues, adds Dr. Alford. Noah Williamson, a native of Hattiesburg, Miss., who is pursuing a double major in conservation biology and geography, reflects on how traveling to Belize enhanced his educational experience. The flora, fauna, and culture were entirely novel to me, and every new experience I had, every new critter I saw, left me in awe, said Williamson. As a student, I felt I learned far more on this trip than I could have in a lecture-based intersession. Learning in the field and immersing oneself in the culture of another country not only aids in the understanding and retention of concepts but also makes the learning experience much more fun! A Day in the Life in Belize As soon as the students set foot in the tropics, they dive right into studying tropical ecosystems, biodiversity, and conservation. Photo by Peter Kyne. The day generally starts early with morning bird walks. Afterwards, students have breakfast and proceed to enjoying a plant hike. They take a lunchbreak and work on journaling and species identifications. This is followed by more hikes or work on hands-on experiments and research projects. Later, they have dinner and then go for a night walk to encounter nocturnal creatures. On some days, students switch things up by exchanging the terrestrial adventures with marine experiences. They go snorkeling along the second-largest barrier reef in the world and engage in non-biological activities like cave tubing and visiting Maya historical sites. To engage with local communities, students visit with artisans who share their traditions and teach them how to make chocolate and Belizean rice and beans. My favorite part of the trip was definitely the early morning and late-night walks, said Williamson. While I knew there was great biodiversity in the tropics, nothing can compare to the experience of seeing it for yourself, which is exactly what we did on those walks. I woke up before dawn and went to bed well after dusk almost every night just to make sure I didnt miss a single experience. The Diversity of the Tropics Photo by Peter Kyne. Home to thousands of species of exotic birds, wildlife, and flowers, students are exposed to sightings of unique and rare species. Dr. Alford highlights that this year marked an exceptional period for sightings compared to previous trips. During our expedition we identified 225 bird species, said Dr. Phillips. The excitement began with a crested guan, a welcomed sight, as they are becoming scarce in more populated areas due to hunting. The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary provides a protected haven for this turkey-sized bird and is one of the only places to see this species in Belize. The first morning also brought a delightful encounter with the national bird of Belize and one of the students favorites, the Keel-billed Toucan. As the group continued exploring, Dr. Alford says they encountered a rich tapestry of plant life, including a rare find in his years of teaching in Belize. A student spotted unique ladle-like structures on the ground, identified as bat-feeding nectaries from a woody vine (Marcgravia) high in the canopy the first find in our years of teaching in Belize. To cap off the trip, Dr. Phillips notes that the challenges of nocturnal and elusive terrestrial species were met with notable sightings. Mammals can be particularly challenging in the tropics as terrestrial species are nocturnal and can be very elusive, said Dr. Phillips. With hikes in the evenings, we documented seeing species such as the Collared Anteater, Kinkajou, Gibnut, Agouti, White-nosed Coati, and various opossum species. Additionally, on the marine realm, we saw the West Indian Manatee and Bottlenose Dolphin. As the group bid farewell to Belize's natural wonders, Dr. Alford reinforces the invaluable role that experiential learning plays in the student journey. This trip, marked by exceptional sightings and newfound knowledge, has inspired our students, with many considering graduate education in biology or pursing research internships overseas. Learn more about upcoming Study Abroad trips. GEORGIA ProCare Therapy, a leading school therapy and teacher staffing agency, conducted an analysis of the ongoing teacher shortage crisis to raise awareness of the impact teachers have on the quality of education students receive. Nevada, Utah, and California have the highest teacher shortages. The new report highlights that elementary, language arts, social studies, and physical education teachers are most in demand. California has the third-highest rate of teacher shortages in the country, with a ratio of one teacher to 21 students. California follows Utah and Nevada, where teacher-student ratios are one teacher per 22 and 25 students, respectively. California has a teacher shortage area for elementary education teachers, language arts teachers (grades 5-12), social studies teachers (grades 5-12) and physical education teachers (grades K-12). A decrease in individuals entering the profession plays a large role in Californias teacher shortages, with the number of new teacher credentials issued by the state falling by 16% in recent years. ProCare Therapy's report, which utilizes internal data and information from official federal public data sources, highlights the states with the most critical shortages: Demand for teachers is expected to grow nationwide, and The Economic Policy Institute (EPI) projects a deficit of roughly 200,000 public school teachers by the 2025-26 school year. To alleviate the issue, districts nationwide are adopting various solutions such as recruitment initiatives, retention strategies, higher teacher salaries, student loan forgiveness, and placing substitutes, paraprofessionals, and traveling educators in roles. Stephanie Morris, Senior Vice President of ProCare Therapy, commented, ProCare Therapy's mission is to provide the best possible support for schools and their students. The teacher shortage crisis has far-reaching consequences, including larger class sizes, decreased student performance and increased teacher workload. We are dedicated to raising awareness about the teacher shortage crisis and advocating for solutions that will benefit educators and ensure a brighter future for students. ProCare Therapy aims to help schools bridge the gap caused by teacher shortages with traveling, temporary and permanent placements to teletherapy and special education support. For more information about ProCare Therapy and efforts to combat the teacher shortage crisis, visit http://www.procaretherapy.com. Submitted by ProCare Therapy. Miami jury finds former BVI premier guilty of drug-import plot. He faces up to life in prison Achievers Nine High Point University students and one alumnus have been named semifinalists for the 2024-25 Fulbright U.S. Student Program, which is the U.S. governments flagship international educational exchange program. This is a record year for HPU with 10 students named Fulbright semifinalists. Working closely with HPUs Office of National Fellowships and Awards, each of the 10 semifinalists went through a rigorous application process that included writing two essays and a Fulbright Campus Committee interview. The students applied for fully funded graduate study and English teaching awards in Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Ecuador, Italy, Mexico, Portugal, Serbia, Spain, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. This years semifinalists are as follows: Alexandra Bennett, political science and international relations majors, French and economics minors; Lauren Buddie, elementary education major; Nigel Debrito, exercise science major and 2023 alumnus; Olivia Gardner, Spanish and journalism majors, legal studies minor; Savannah Graver, international relations major, Chinese and environmental science minors; Ethan Muckerheide, psychology major, religion minor; Eric Quarato, master of communication and business leadership program; Kristin Salvatore, master of education program; Anna Tornovish, elementary education major; and Carly Zimmermann, advertising, public relations and strategic communication major, event management minor. * * * * High Point University student Robin Stempel, a senior from Bermuda who is majoring in biochemistry, was recently named a Rhodes Scholar finalist. Rhodes Scholarships are highly prestigious, post-graduate scholarships that allow academically strong students to attend Oxford University for their degrees. They are considered the worlds oldest international fellowship awards. Rhodes Scholars are selected based on their academic achievements, high character, strong leadership potential and commitment to others and to the common good. Announcements Greensboro Day School will present a special education program about supporting young peoples mental health, led by Nina Kumar, co-founder and CEO of Authentic Connections. The event is set for 7 to 8 p.m. Feb. 27 in the Sloan Theatre on Greensboro Day Schools campus. This event is free and open to the public. In recent years, there has been a heightened awareness and increasing concern about the mental health of young people. Through her work, Kumar, co-founder and CEO of Authentic Connections, has collected survey data about well-being from more than 50,000 students nationwide. In her presentation, Kumar will discuss trends in youth well-being and identify the factors that are most likely to contribute to mental health difficulties, such as depression and anxiety. She will also explore how families and schools can create a healthy environment that supports young peoples mental health. This is the fifth and final event in Greensboro Day Schools 202324 McLendon Speaker Series, featuring national and local experts on current education and parenting topics. A century-old university in suburban St. Louis will shut down next year, its president said Monday, citing budget problems and declining enrollment. Fontbonne University, in Clayton, was founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet in 1923, first as a place to educate young Catholic women. Enrollment for the fall semester was 874 students, including 650 undergraduates. A decade ago, Fontbonne's enrollment was about 2,000 students, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported. University President Nancy Blattner said in a statement that Fontbonne would not accept freshmen for the fall 2024 semester but would continue with classes through summer 2025. University leaders will work with faculty and staff to help them find new positions elsewhere, she said. "After many years of declining enrollments and a shrinking endowment, the financial position of the university is no longer able to be sustained for the long term," Blattner said. Many universities are facing similar struggles. Public and private colleges and universities across the country have announced mass layoffs in recent months, as well as program eliminations and campus closures. Budget shortfalls are blamed on declining enrollment, the end of federal pandemic funding and other factors. In December, the University of Arizona unveiled a financial recovery plan to address its $240 million budget shortfall. Earlier last year, four of the 14 universities in the Big Ten Conference Penn State, Nebraska, Minnesota and Rutgers announced significant budget shortfalls. Bradley University, a private school in Illinois, faced a $13 million budget shortfall representing 10% of its total operating budget. Blattner said Fontbonne leaders have worked for years to try to turn things around. "Despite our best efforts to cut costs, create new academic programs and launch athletic teams, the university is unable to recover from years of declining enrollments and budget deficits," she said. The university's 16-acre campus sits next to Washington University in St. Louis. Washington University announced Monday that it agreed to purchase the Fontbonne campus, but it doesn't have definitive plans for the property. "The military came to my house in Kherson and said that they were taking me to a children's camp in Crimea," explained 18-year-old Denys Berezhnyi, addressing U.S. lawmakers in Washington last month. His parents are deaf and mute, he said, and couldn't argue with the Russian soldiers. In the camp, he said, his supervisor denied him diabetes medication to force him into obedience, until his physical condition deteriorated and he was taken to a hospital in an ambulance. "I did not want to be a Russian citizen. I called the Save Ukraine hotline from a Russian number and jumped for joy when I learned they would come for me," Berezhnyi told the members of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, also known as the U.S. Helsinki Commission. Berezhnyi is one of the lucky Ukrainian children who made it back home. Save Ukraine is the largest network for rescuing Ukrainian children forcibly taken to Russia, supported by the U.S. Agency for International Development and private donations. Still, it has been able to repatriate only 239 children; 64 of them are orphans. Ukraine government ombudsman Dmytro Lubynets told VOA that Ukraine has been able to recover a total of 518 children from Russia and occupied territories through combined efforts of the state, Save Ukraine and UNICEF. That's just a small fraction of the children taken to Russia since 2014, when Russia annexed Crimea and sent forces into eastern Ukrainian territories ahead of the full-scale invasion in February 2022. Ukrainian authorities have been able to identify about 20,000 children forcibly taken to Russia, though Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk believes the actual number is much higher, possibly in the hundreds of thousands. Russia claims children 'in need' Russian authorities don't deny bringing children from Ukraine to Russia but portray their actions as taking care of children in need and finding adoptive parents for orphans. Moscow also doesn't share the exact number of kids taken or their whereabouts. Save Ukraine CEO Mykola Kuleba, who also testified at the hearings, told VOA that his organization uses information from multiple sources, including relatives, social services, open data, volunteer organizations and media reports to find missing children. In March of last year, the International Criminal Court issued warrants of arrest for Russian President Vladimir Putin and the commissioner for children's rights in the Office of the President, Maria Lvova-Belova. It said they were "allegedly responsible for the war crime of unlawful deportation of [children] and that of unlawful transfer of [children] from occupied areas of Ukraine to the Russian Federation." In April, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe declared that the deportation and forced transfer of Ukrainian children to Russia amounted to genocide. UN demands Russia stop On Thursday, the U.N. Committee on the Rights of the Child a panel of 18 independent experts demanded Russia end the forcible transfer of children from Ukraine, provide information about those already taken and ensure they are returned home. In some cases, entire Ukrainian families including children are forced to move to Russia. Kuleba said these families are resettled all over the Russian territory, some as far away as Siberia. Some children are separated from their families and sent to the children's camps, while those whose parents were killed in Mariupol or other occupied territories are placed with Russian families or in orphanages. Kuleba and Lubynets charge that Russia kidnaps Ukrainian children to brainwash them to hate Ukraine and the United States and to use them as soldiers in future wars. "The Russians are trying to erase the identity of the Ukrainian children they kidnapped and are raising them as a new generation of the Russian army," Lubynets said at the hearing. 'New approaches' needed The Ukrainian government and nongovernmental organizations face challenges in bringing children home. Kuleba didn't want to share the details "because the Russians do everything not to return any child, to prevent these returns." Every return remains a separate special operation that requires "new approaches, new arguments, new partners, new logistical routes," said Lubynets. Many rescue operations start with a call to the Save Ukraine hotline, which then works with a parent or relative in Ukraine to facilitate the children's return. In the case of Berezhnyi, who was 17 at the time, his disabled parents were unable to come to claim him, so the organization engaged the mother of another child who was taken to Crimea with him. The mother, her son and Berezhnyi were able to cross the border, where Russian authorities questioned them and closely examined their phones, Berezhnyi recounted. "And when I saw the sign 'Ukraine,' I took the heavy bag in my arms and shouted, 'Glory to Ukraine!' " he said at the hearings. Berezhnyi arrived back home in July 2023, nine months after being taken from his family. Kuleba said it became more difficult to repatriate children after the March 2023 ICC decision, which made Russia more reluctant to let the children leave because they would be witnesses to a crime. At the same time, Lubynets said, it has helped in many cases by bringing international awareness to the situation. "This decision became like a cold shower for the leaders, and everyone started not just 'being deeply concerned,' but finally started to act," he told VOA. Qatar is so far the only foreign country that has directly facilitated the return of Ukrainian children, helping to bring home 16 in all. Girl returns 'hostile to Ukraine' There is no legal mechanism to repatriate deported children, said Andriy Kostin, Ukraine's prosecutor general. He said that Ukrainian authorities provide information and legal arguments to world leaders, asking them to either stop engaging with Putin or, if they do, request that he return the abducted kids. "The first sentence of every communication with Putin by anyone should start with, 'Putin, bring back the Ukrainian children,' " said Kostin in an interview with VOA. Kuleba said that children who return home are often exhausted, withdrawn and brainwashed. Many believe that Ukraine no longer exists or that Ukraine is a republic of Russia. Some refuse to go home because they are afraid of "Nazis," a propaganda label that Moscow applies to Ukrainian citizens, some of whom are Jewish. "One girl, 16 years old, whom we brought back from Mariupol, was so hostile to Ukraine just hostile and we can see that she is a very traumatized child. We treat them with respect, try to warm them with love," he said. Save Ukraine employs psychologists, social workers and case managers to help children readjust. Kuleba also said that they were able to find adoptive families for all the orphans they brought back from Russia. Mariia Ulianovska, Hanna Tverdokhlib, Ostap Yarysh and Oleksii Kovalenko of VOA Ukrainian contributed to this report. A private, four-person international crew with the commercial space company Axiom safely splashed down Friday off Florida's Atlantic coast following a two-week mission at the International Space Station (ISS). In a release published on its website, Axiom said the crew splashed down early Friday, about 8:30 a.m. EST, after undocking from the ISS Wednesday aboard a Dragon spacecraft leased from another commercial space company, SpaceX. The crew included retired NASA astronaut Michael Lopez-Alegria, who served as the mission's commander; from Italy, Italian Air Force Colonel Walter Villadei; from Turkey, Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravc and, from Sweden, European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Marcus Wandt. It was Axiom's third crewed mission to the ISS and the first with an all-European crew. During the trip, Gezeravc became the first-ever Turkish citizen to fly in space, and Wandt, the first ESA astronaut to fly on a commercial mission. The company said during the 18-day mission on the orbiting laboratory, the Axiom crew conducted more than 30 experiments and more than 50 "outreach engagements," that included video discussions with school children from their home countries. Turkey, Italy and Sweden reportedly helped finance the mission by each paying about $55 million. Axiom Space said it plans to launch its fourth mission, AX-4, to the ISS later this year from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Some information for this report was provided by The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse. U.S. President Joe Biden on Thursday pushed back on claims he incorrectly handled sensitive government documents, forcefully contrasting his case with that of former President Donald Trump and drawing a contrast with Trumps own high-stakes legal travails the same day the Supreme Court heard arguments in a case that could remove Trump from the presidential race. Biden, at turns defiant and bitterly jocular with the reporters called in for the last-minute remarks Thursday evening, strongly disputed that he "willfully" retained and shared classified materials, as was said in a report released earlier in the day. "These assertions are not only misleading, they're just plain wrong," he said. The report by special counsel Robert Hur concluded that no criminal charges should be brought, and that many of the classified documents found in Bidens offices and home were kept by mistake. In a statement earlier in the day, Biden said he was "pleased" the special counsel had "reached the conclusion I believed all along they would reach that there would be no charges brought in this case and the matter is now closed." That evening, he parried questions over a section of the report in which the author described the 81-year old president as "a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory." "Im well-meaning and Im an elderly man and I know what the hell Im doing," Biden replied to a reporter who asked after his memory and cited voters concerns over his age. "Ive been president, I put this country back on its feet. I dont need his recommendation." Bob Bauer, Bidens personal lawyer, also pushed back on the report in a statement, accusing Hur of "trashing" the investigations subject "with extraneous, unfounded and irrelevant critical commentary." "The special counsel could not refrain from investigative excess, perhaps unsurprising given the intense pressures of the current political environment," Bauers statement read. "Whatever the impact of those pressures on the final report, it flouts department regulations and norms." Bidens detractors weighed in within the hour. "The Presidents press conference this evening further confirmed on live television what the Special Counsel report outlined," Speaker of the House Mike Johnson posted on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. "He is not fit to be President." Biden is not the only president to face criticism over his handling of documents. In 1973, a Washington Post reporter who had had lunch in 1970 with then-former President Lyndon B. Johnson, wrote that "the ex-President came prepared with the goods in the form of stacks of papers marked TOP SECRET and TOP SECRET SENSITIVE. Over and over, he read from the various memoranda, letters and other documents to back up his positions." Trump faces 40 felony counts over his alleged mishandling of classified documents after he left office. Trump, in a statement, said the Biden case was "100 times different and more severe than mine." He added: "I did nothing wrong, and I cooperated far more." Trumps case is the first federal indictment of a U.S. president. He has pleaded not guilty. Joe Biden's Republican rivals are pouncing on questions about his mental acuity, following a verbal slip by the U.S. president that has exacerbated Democrats' anxiety about his age. "Biden's not going to be any sharper in November," Jason Miller, senior adviser to the Trump campaign, said in a statement to VOA. The Make America Great Again Political Action Committee, which supports former President Donald Trump, released a statement saying, "Joe Biden isn't just senile, he put our national security at risk." Trump has a commanding lead in the Republican primaries and is likely to become the party's nominee, despite facing 91 felony indictments in various federal and state criminal cases. The campaign of Nikki Haley, who is trailing Trump, released a statement that Biden "should take a mental competency test immediately" and make it public. "The White House is not a taxpayer-subsidized nursing home," Haley said. "It is clear to most Americans that Biden lacks the mental capacity to effectively serve as president." Biden's verbal slip Republicans renewed attacks after the president made a verbal slip Thursday evening, mistakenly referring to Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi as "the president of Mexico" while he was highlighting efforts he made to secure aid for the people of Gaza. It's the third instance in which Biden has mixed up world leaders in recent weeks, confusing French President Emmanuel Macron with former French President Francois Mitterrand and former German Chancellors Helmut Kohl and Angela Merkel. Thursday's gaffe happened while Biden was pushing back against reporters' questioning on a report by special counsel Robert Hur about the president's mishandling of classified documents that noted his lapses in memory. The report cited examples of Biden unable to recall defining moments in his own life, including when his son Beau passed away. "My memory is fine," a visibly angry Biden shot back as he denied forgetting when his son died. Beau Biden died of brain cancer in 2015 at the age of 46. The White House pushed back against Hur's characterization of Biden's memory, with press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre saying during her Friday briefing that such comments don't "live in reality," underscoring Biden as "the most productive and effective president in modern time." With many voters concerned about Biden and Trump being too old to lead, highlighting the president's age and experience as his strength is key, said Democratic strategist Douglas Wilson. In addition, the White House and Democrats must push back against questions of Biden's mental acuity as ageism. "No one should be a victim of ageism, not even the president," Wilson told VOA. "Especially if the president is showing that he can still do the job. And he has shown he can still do the job." Voters concerned Three-quarters of voters, including half of Democrats, say they have concerns about Biden's mental and physical health, according to an NBC News poll released this week. Less than half of voters have concerns about Trump's mental and physical health according to the same poll, despite his own multiple flubs. During a campaign event earlier this month Trump appeared to mistakenly refer to his rival Haley as former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi when discussing the events at the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. He has previously mixed-up Biden and former President Barack Obama. While part of an American president's job is performative to stand before the world and articulate his message there's more to being a leader, said William Howell, professor of American Politics at the University of Chicago. "The work of governing is the work of management and of team building and of coalition formation," he told VOA. "There are no signs that somehow Biden has flagged on those fronts and that he's incapable of meeting those obligations. And yet, what we regularly fixate on is the performative qualities did he say the right name of the right leader?" Biden not charged Also, during Friday's briefing, spokesperson for the White House Counsel's Office Ian Sams underscored the special counsel's decision that Biden will not be charged for mishandling classified documents. "Our investigation uncovered evidence that President Biden willfully retained and disclosed classified materials after his vice presidency when he was a private citizen," Hur's report said, following a 15-month investigation. However, the evidence "does not establish Mr. Biden's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt." Biden cooperated and would be difficult to convict, Hur's report said, describing him as a "well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory," who would be sympathetic to a jury. Sams slammed parts of the report that raised questions about Joe Biden's mental fitness as "gratuitous" and "inappropriate." The sentiment is shared by many Democrats angry at the prosecutor appointed by Biden's Attorney General Merrick Garland as special counsel. "It felt like a hit job," said Michael Blake, CEO of Kairos Democracy Project and former aide to Obama. The notion that people are now focused on the president's memory and attacking him about his son's death is "egregious and heinous," Blake told VOA. "As opposed to what the real news is that he didn't commit any crimes and he handled things appropriately." Trumps case Trump, who is under federal indictment with 37 felony counts related to the mishandling of classified documents, obstructing justice and making false statements, sharpened his attack on Biden's handling of the documents. He called Biden's case "100 times different and more severe than mine," charging in a campaign statement Thursday that there is "a two-tiered system of justice and unconstitutional selective prosecution!" and "election interference." In his report, Hur preempted such assertions. "Unlike the evidence involving Mr. Biden, the allegations set forth in the indictment of Mr. Trump, if proven, would present serious aggravating facts," the report said. "Most notably, after being given multiple chances to return classified documents and avoid prosecution, Mr. Trump allegedly did the opposite." President Joe Biden on Thursday gave his sharpest criticism yet of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus military campaign, which has killed more than 27,000 Palestinians, according to health officials in Gaza. Im of the view, as you know, that the conduct of the response in Gaza, in the Gaza Strip, has been over the top, Biden said in response to a reporters question at the White House. Biden said he has been pushing very hard for a temporary cease-fire in exchange for the release of hostages held by Hamas and freeing of Palestinians in Israeli jails. On Wednesday, Netanyahu rejected the deal, calling the terms proposed by Hamas delusional. I've been working tirelessly in this deal, Biden said, adding that he believes it could be extended to a sustained pause in the fighting. He said he has been pushing to increase humanitarian assistance into Gaza. As you know, initially, the president of Mexico, Sissi, did not want to open up the gate to allow humanitarian material to get in, Biden said, mistakenly referring to Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi. I talked to him. I convinced him to open the gate. And talked to Bibi [Netanyahu] to open the gate on Israeli side. Biden said this during hastily scheduled remarks in response to a special counsel report released Thursday. The report concluded he willfully retained and disclosed classified military and national security information and cited his memory lapses a concern for American voters ahead of the November presidential election. Three-quarters of voters, including half of Democrats, say they have concerns about Bidens mental and physical health, according to an NBC News poll released this week. My memory is fine," Biden said. Warning on Rafah Earlier Thursday, the White House issued a stern warning to Israel, cautioning the Netanyahu government against carrying its military campaign into the city of Rafah along the border with Egypt, where more than half of Gaza's population of 2.2 million people have taken shelter. "Absent any full consideration of protecting civilians at that scale in Gaza, military operations right now would be a disaster for those people, and it's not something that we would support," said National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby during a White House briefing. His comments echoed those of U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who warned earlier Thursday of the risk of a "gigantic tragedy" as the Palestinians crammed in Rafah "have nowhere to go." Kirby underscored the administration does not believe Israel is about to conduct imminent military operations in Rafah, saying it has not "seen any convincing plans" for such an advance. This despite Netanyahu saying on Wednesday that his government had instructed the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to "operate also in Rafah," as well as Khan Younis, the two places he identified as the "two last strongholds of Hamas." Israel is unlikely to swiftly move into Rafah as long as the IDF continues fighting in Khan Younis and around its tunnels, where it thinks that Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, a native of Khan Younis, is hiding, said David Makovsky, the Ziegler distinguished fellow at the Washington Institute and director of the Koret Project on Arab-Israel Relations. "I think Netanyahu and [Israeli Defense Minister Yoav] Gallant want to signal that Israel is not afraid of going into Rafah," he told VOA. "But I think we are still talking about the signaling phase." As Palestinians in Rafah shelter in fear of a more intensive campaign and ground assault, Israeli forces bombed areas of the city, killing at least 11 people. Cairo concerned Cairo is concerned that an Israeli advance into Rafah could lead to a mass effort by Gazans to escape across the border, a spokesperson for Egypt's Foreign Ministry said Thursday. Washington also worries that the conflict could spread into Egypt, said Jonathan Rynhold, head of the Department of Political Studies at Bar-Ilan University. "What could happen here with the relationship with Egypt? What will happen if the Palestinians try and rush into Egypt? How are you going to deal with that? Those are the kinds of questions that are being asked [by the U.S. to the Israelis]," Rynhold told VOA. Despite its increasingly blunt public warnings to Israel, the U.S. remains a staunch supporter of Israel's military campaign to eliminate Hamas. So far Biden has refrained from using Washington's considerable leverage, said Aaron David Miller, senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace with experience in Middle East peace negotiations under various U.S. administrations. That leverage includes the possibility of reducing military aid or diplomatic support at the United Nations, where more than 150 countries have called for a cease-fire. "Those levers have been available since the beginning of this crisis, but he hasn't pulled any of them," he told VOA. Kirby pushed back against questions about why Biden would not do more to rein in Netanyahu. The notion that the administration has not tried to influence the way the Israelis have been prosecuting military operations is "just not true," Kirby told VOA during Thursday's briefing. "And they've been receptive to many of our lessons learned and perspectives we share." Rynhold said Biden is likely withholding U.S. leverage for when he may need to restrain Israel from broadening the conflict, particularly against Lebanon. Hezbollah-led forces have been attacking Israeli communities and military posts along the Lebanon-Israel border on a near-daily basis since the October 7 attack by Hamas that killed 1,200 people in Israel. Cease-fire The White House said it is optimistic that there is still a path toward a temporary cease-fire, despite Netanyahu's public dismissal of the plan that highlighted the divide between the two allies. Kirby said that "conversations are still happening" and Biden is "optimistic." Biden is set to meet with Jordan's King Abdullah in Washington next week as part of his push for a deal. The Carnegie Endowment's Miller warned that a deal may be elusive because "neither Hamas nor the Israelis right now are really interested." "There's no urgency for either of them in a comprehensive sort of cessation of hostilities," he said. "The only people that appear to be in a hurry is the Biden administration." Biden is facing intense backlash from Arab and Muslim Americans. In an effort to repair relations, his aides met Thursday with Arab American and Muslim leaders in Michigan. The state has a high percentage of Muslims, and their votes could determine whether the president can hold on to the crucial swing state in the November presidential election. VOA U.N. Correspondent Margaret Besheer contributed to this report. The Canadian government is delaying access to medically assisted death for people with mental illness. Those suffering from mental illness were supposed to be able to access Medical Assistance in Dying also known as MAID starting March 17. The recent announcement by the government of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was the second delay after original legislation authorizing the practice passed in 2021. The delay came in response to a recommendation by a majority of the members of a committee made up of senators and members of Parliament. One of the most high-profile proponents of MAID is British Columbia-based lawyer Chris Considine. In the mid-1990s, he represented Sue Rodriguez, who was dying from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, commonly known as ALS. Their bid for approval of a medically assisted death was rejected at the time by the Supreme Court of Canada. But a law passed in 2016 legalized euthanasia for individuals with terminal conditions. From then until 2022, more than 45,000 people chose to die. Considine said he was in favor of postponing an extension of the law to those with mental illness because depression can have numerous reasons, such as poor housing or job prospects. He pointed to the difficulty many people face in getting timely psychiatric help. He said pressure for the delay came from numerous parts of Canadian society. "I think that there was pressure from a number of sources, including provincial governments in Canada, a number of them who felt that they could not provide the funding nor the resources for persons who are depressed to receive access to health care professionals, such as psychologists and psychiatrists," he said. Pamela Wallin, a former journalist, was one of three senators in the minority on the parliamentary committee. She told VOA that medical experts say they are ready, but not the politicians. She feels continuing the delay is cruel. "But if you have a mental illness, no, no, no. We've already made you work and wait for three years on this, and we promised you it would be ready," she said. "But now we're going to make you wait another three years while we think about it some more. I'm just appalled that we would do this to people who are suffering in ways that many of us can't even understand." Sally Thorne, a professor emeritus of nursing at the University of British Columbia, said if mentally ill people wish to apply for medical assistance in their deaths, they have to meet all the current requirements for people with physical ailments whose deaths are not reasonably foreseeable but who have chronic and life-limiting conditions. These requirements include evaluations by multiple doctors, including a specialist in a patient's particular condition, being offered other methods of treatment, and a 90-day waiting period. Thorne said she was not worried about the argument that those with mental disorders lack the ability to give consent. "Because such people do, in our society, buy a house or sign consent for cardiac surgery or something like that. We do as a society understand that there's a difference between having a mental illness and having the capacity to provide informed consent," she said. Thorne said it was an interesting paradox that those with mental illness who also have qualifying physical conditions can legally access medical assistance in dying. Arthur Schafer, the founding director of the Centre for Professional and Applied Ethics at the University of Manitoba, said the pressure for the latest pause was entirely expected and was misguided. "I think when people are asking their opinion when the general public is there, assuming, 'Hey, if you're mentally ill, you won't really know what you want, or you won't be capable, or you may be temporarily depressed, and that makes you vulnerable.' But that isn't what will happen," he said. Nicole Scheidl, the executive director of Ottawa-based Physicians for Life, who is strongly opposed to euthanasia, said the idea of extending MAID to cover mental health sufferers should be abandoned permanently. "Frankly, I think they should drop it," she said. "I don't see how there's any medical evidence to show that they can produce clinical practical guidelines, practice guidelines, that would be useful." The Trudeau government has announced the delay will last until at least 2027. This will move the issue until after the next federal election, which must happen no later than October 20, 2025. Officials from countries of the West African regional bloc ECOWAS met in Nigeria's capital Thursday to discuss the exit of three members, Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, who announced their departure from the bloc last week. The bloc is also dealing with a brewing crisis in Senegal, where the president has delayed elections until December. Thursday's meeting of officials of the Economic Community of West African States, known as ECOWAS, was to address regional political developments, including the declared exit of three of the bloc's 15 member states. After a closed-door session that lasted several hours, ECOWAS said it will continue to pursue dialogue with Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso. But the bloc also said their decisions to leave will have consequences for the regional body and its citizens. "Indeed, while we were waiting and hoping to see more progress in the countries in transition, we find ourselves with more problems problems that have been compounded by various factors," said Omar Alieu Touray, ECOWAS commission president. "Despite our collective efforts to create a conducive and peaceful environment for our community citizens, the facts on the ground show that we still have more work to do." ECOWAS accused of pandering Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, all ruled by military juntas, announced their immediate withdrawal from the regional body in a joint communique last week. The three nations accused ECOWAS of abandoning its founding ideals and pandering to foreign powers. They also criticized the regional bloc's sanctions against military-led governments in the region, calling the sanctions inhumane. Then, days after the withdrawal, protests broke out in Senegal after President Macky Sall postponed the country's presidential elections from February to December. The decision was approved by Senegal's National Assembly but has been criticized by many, such as political analyst Ahmed Buhari, who calls it a constitutional coup. "Anytime you interfere with the emergence of leaders in a democratic space, it's going to create shaky ground," said Buhari. "Clearly this is an assassination on the constitution of the good people of Senegal. The executive, the legislative and the judiciary are under the full control of the president, they're unable to make any decision that will not be convenient for the president." Senegal's foreign minister attended Thursday's meeting. He told journalists his country's political situation should not worry the regional bloc. Bloc struggles with coups ECOWAS was created in 1975 to promote economic prosperity among member states. But in recent years, the bloc has been struggling to deal with a wave of coups. Experts say bad governance is to blame for the trend and said the regional bloc must impose sanctions on Senegal over the election cycle delay. Nigerian Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar said authorities will fix the problem. "We're also here to review the unfolding situation in Senegal and develop a plan to navigate the resulting complexities," said Tuggar. "We have faced similar crises in the past and as a region we have not been found wanting. This meeting can come up with far-reaching decisions to transform our challenges into opportunities." Last year, Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger created a bloc known as the alliance of Sahel States and promised to defend their countries. For now, it remains unclear whether ECOWAS will take a firm stance against Senegal or make a concerted effort to bring Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso back into the fold. Ahead of the March presidential elections in Russia, President Vladimir Putin spoke in Moscow with Tucker Carlson, a conservative American journalist and former Fox News host who now runs a personal news site. Carlson announced the interview on February 6 in a controversial video post on X, saying it took bravery to conduct an interview with Putin while all other Western journalists ignored the Russian leader. The American people deserve to know the truth from Russia, Carlson said, and promised his interview with Putin would deliver that truth. Carlsons video sparked criticism from Western colleagues and independent Russian journalists who said his accusations of biased reporting on Russia were baseless. Many said Carlson ignored the Putin regimes historic record of censorship, journalist murders, and imprisonment. Carlson published the pre-recorded, two-hour-long interview with Vladimir Putin on February 8, introducing it as the Russian leaders sincere point of view. Throughout the more than 20 years he has ruled Russia, Putin has repeatedly violated international treaties and has broken his promises. Voice of America reviewed Putins answers to Carlson and found them a mixture of falsehoods and toxic anti-U.S., anti-Ukraine propaganda and disinformation all of it repeatedly debunked and exposed by VOA fact-checkers and others. Here is some of what Putin told Carlson: Putin: Ukrainians still consider themselves Russians. What is happening is an element of a civil war. This is false. Facing nearly two years of Russian aggression that killed hundreds of thousands of people, destroyed entire towns and cities, and displaced millions, Ukrainians increasingly cherish their unique national identity. Opinion polls conducted in Ukraine over the years show that the vast majority of Ukrainians consider Russians a different ethnic group. Russias initial intervention in 2014, followed by a full-fledged invasion in February 2022, sharpened the Ukrainians national identity as separate people and increased negative sentiments toward the invading Russian nation. Putins characterization of Russias war against Ukraine as a civil war is patently false. Ukraine is an internationally recognized (including by Russia) sovereign independent nation. Prior to the invasion, Putin had written an op-ed declaring Ukraine an integral part of Russia and denying its history and right to sovereignty. He has since reaffirmed that view in his public addresses and policy. Putin: The 2014 coup detat in Ukraine was accomplished by the opposition with the help of CIA. This is false. There was no 2014 coup in Ukraine. The military played virtually no role in the events of 2014 in Kyiv. One military unit of the Ukrainian Ministry of Internal Affairs was ordered into Kyiv to help suppress the Maidan protesters, not to help them. Members of that unit were trapped in their barracks by protesters and never made it to the capital. Ukraines then-President Viktor Yanukovych was never overthrown as is customary in a coup but abandoned his post and fled to Russia amid mass protests against his refusal to sign an association agreement with the European Union. Additionally, while Putins accusations against the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency are a repetition of the Kremlins years-old propaganda narrative, neither Russia nor any other nation ever presented any credible evidence that protesters were agents of the United States or any other country. Putin: NATO has options to recognize Russias control over the new regions. This is false. Per the United Nations General Assembly, Russias attempted illegal annexation of Ukrainian regions has no validity under international law. Russia currently occupies parts of four Ukrainian regions and the Crimean Peninsula, which Moscow falsely claims joined Russia via plebiscite. 143 world nations jointly condemned Russias "so-called referendums in regions within the internationally recognized borders of Ukraine and the attempted illegal annexation. Putin: Ukraine started the war; Russias goal is to stop it. This is false. Putin can stop the war at any time. Instead, he keeps sending troops into Ukraine and makes laws to legitimize the occupation of Ukrainian territory and the abduction of thousands of Ukrainian children. Russia started the war on Ukraine in 2014 when Moscow annexed Ukraines Crimean Peninsula and then sent clandestine military units to secretly seize government buildings in Donbas, effectively launching a power grab of Ukraines Donetsk and Luhansk regions. Ukraine responded to Russian active measures by launching what Kyiv called an anti-terrorist operation. Subsequently, Russia sent regular troops to Donbas and annexed it. Putin reportedly planned to host a victory parade at Kyivs iconic Maidan Square a week after launching the February 2022 full-scale invasion. Until the day of the invasion, Putin lied to his foreign counterparts about his war plans, while his agencies portrayed repeated warnings from the United States about a possible invasion as Russophobic hysteria. In addition, Russia ignores the U.N. demand to immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw all of its military forces from the territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders. Moscow also ignores the U.N. International Court of Justice's preliminary ruling that ordered Russia to immediately stop its military operations in Ukraine and its support for armed forces in eastern Ukraine to further Russias war. Putin: Russia had to take Crimea under its protection in 2014. This is false. Russia illegally annexed Crimea in 2014, sending in troops in unmarked uniforms, staging a fake referendum, and targeting Crimean Tatars as extremists. The main reason for the persecution? Disagreement with Russia's annexation. Russian authorities outlawed the representative body of the Crimean Tatars, the Mejlis, and shut down the Crimean Tatar TV channel. Putin: We have made so many gestures of goodwill, that weve exhausted all limits. Nobody responded to our goodwill gestures with similar gestures. (Answering a question about Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich imprisoned in Russia) This is false. Arresting and incriminating journalists for doing their job is no goodwill gesture. Gershkovich, a reporter for The Wall Street Journal, was arrested while on a reporting assignment in Russias eastern city of Yekaterinburg. The FSB, a Russian domestic intelligence agency, accused him of collecting secret information about the Russian military but never presented evidence to back that accusation. The Journal and Gershkovich denied the allegations. Nevertheless, the Russian court handed out a guilty verdict and rejected appeals. On November 28, the court in Moscow extended Gershkovichs detention until the end of January. The United States maintains Gershkovich is wrongfully detained and refers to him as a hostage, calling for Gershkovichs immediate release. Journalism is not a crime. We condemn the Kremlins continued repression of independent voices in Russia, and its ongoing war against the truth, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement. VOA previously debunked the Russian claims that Gershkovich was never involved in any journalistic activities in Russia. ROCKINGHAM COUNTY Investigators with the Rockingham County Sheriff's Office say scammers are phoning local residents, impersonating law enforcement officers, threatening arrest, and demanding money, according to a news release. The callers have pretended to be Lt. Kevin Suthard and Col. Alan Farrar, both employees of the sheriff's office. In order to make their illegal scheme more convincing, the scammers have a system that makes their calls appear to originate from the true sheriff's office phone number, the release said. Scam callers typically claim the person they have reached has missed jury duty and will be arrested unless they pay a fine over the phone. They usually request the person purchase a gift card, then provide scammers with the card's number, the release said. Anyone with information about the scam should call: 336-634-3232. Brazilian police launched an investigation Thursday into allegations of an attempted military coup by the government of former president Jair Bolsonaro following his election loss in 2022. Bolsonaro was asked to hand over his passport within 24 hours, according to a decision by Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes made public Thursday. The former president was critical of Brazils voting system and never conceded the election to current President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. The police have not confirmed the identities of those undergoing searches, but an officer with knowledge of the operation told The Associated Press one of the targets is General Walter Braga Netto, a former defense minister and Bolsonaros running mate in the 2022 election. Police plan to conduct 33 searches and make four arrests, according to a police statement. The statement released by police said the conspirators planned to claim fraud prior to the election "in order to enable and legitimize a military intervention." In addition, after the election Bolsanaros political party filed a request to annul ballots cast on most electronic voting machines, which would have overturned the results. The electoral authority rejected their attempts. President Lula declined to comment on a sealed investigation but said his election opponent played an integral role in the coup attempt, particularly the January 8 uprising in Brazil's capital in 2023. "A lot of people should be investigated, because it is concrete fact that there was an attempted coup, there was a policy of disrespecting democracy, there was an attempt to destroy something we built so many years ago, which is the democratic process," Lula said. These investigations come just over a week after police targeted other Bolsonaro allies who were allegedly involved in an "organized crime" group operating within the intelligence agency during his term. Targets include Bolsonaro's son Carlos, a Rio de Janeiro city councilman, and Alexandre Ramagem, former chief of Brazil's intelligence agency. Some information for this report was provided by The Associated Press and Reuters. The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. Hungary has rejected criticism of its new sovereignty protection law, after the European Union instigated legal action against Budapest Wednesday. The EU has concerns that the legislation breaches basic democratic rights. Henry Ridgwell has more from the Hungarian capital. Camera: Ancsin Gabor The Indian Ocean archipelago of Maldives, one of the first South Asian countries to join Beijings Belt and Road Initiative, faces the risk of debt distress, according to the International Monetary Fund. The term refers to countries unable to meet their financial obligations and require debt restructuring. The February 6 IMF warning comes as its new president, Mohamed Muizzu, builds closer ties with China, which has pledged to extend assistance to the tiny country. Muizzu took office in November after defeating former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who during his term in office had raised concerns about the cost of Chinas construction projects in the country. China established its footprint in the Maldives a decade ago, when under a pro-Beijing administration, it built infrastructure projects that included a four-lane bridge connecting the capital, Male, with the international airport, which is on a different island, and housing projects on land reclaimed from the sea. Even the previous government had flagged the issue that Maldives is seriously indebted to China, Sankalp Gurjar, assistant professor in geopolitics and international relations at Indias Manipal Academy of Higher Education, told VOA. He said the Maldivian gross domestic product is just over $5 billion so its high debt is a problem, especially because the country needs foreign exchange for imports of basic necessities such as fuel and food. Maldives owes China $1.37 billion, adding up to about 40% of the countrys public debt, according to World Bank data. That makes Beijing its biggest bilateral creditor. In its review of the Maldivian economy, the IMF projected growth of around 5% for this year, but called for "urgent policy adjustment," saying the country remains at high risk of external and overall debt distress. It did not mention China. During a visit to Beijing last month, Muizzu said he had appealed to Chinese authorities to restructure the payment of loans made tohis country. The visit was a strong signal that he is building closer ties with Beijing, pivoting away from the previous governments pro-India policy. Calling Beijing one of our closest allies and development partners, Muizzu praised the Chinese infrastructure projects in his country and said that he was keen to explore partnerships under Chinas Belt and Road initiative, including the expansion of the country's main airport and commercial port. Analysts say the countrys high debt makes it the latest South Asian country whose economy has faced pressure because of Chinese loans to build projects. China has built ports, bridges and highways in countries stretching from Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan for a trade and transit corridor across Asia. Sri Lanka ran out of foreign exchange to pay its foreign debt in 2022 and the problem was blamed partly on its heavy borrowing from China. Beijing rejects accusations that its loans to developing economies contribute to their economic woes. The huge infrastructure deficit in South Asian countries prompted them to turn to China to join its Belt and Road Initiative, Manoj Joshi, senior fellow at the Observer Research Foundation in New Delhi, told VOA. The logic is that whoever gives the money, lets build the infrastructure but more often than not what happens is that these are badly planned and badly financed and that becomes a burden, Joshi said. Maldives definitely faces a debt problem due to loans taken for Chinese projects that were probably given from a strategic point of view. But I think both China and other countries have become more cautious than they were in the past, he added. Although Maldives is a small country of half a million people, its geostrategic significance is high -- the more than 1,100 tiny Maldivian islands in the Indian Ocean are along vital waterways for much of Chinese trade. Earlier this week, Muizzu said in Maldives that there were difficulties in carrying out development projects while "we are trying to manage debt," according to local media reports in Maldives. The situation in Maldives is fragile. There has been this worry about its vulnerability to Chinese debt trap diplomacy, so if it goes on borrowing further it will make it even more vulnerable, according to Gurjar. It is after all a small country with a tiny population dependent on tourists. Adding to concerns about its high debt, there are also worries that tourism, which is the major source of revenue for Maldives, may take a hit following a strain in ties with India. A diplomatic row erupted between the two countries after three Maldivian ministers made disparaging comments about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It prompted a Boycott Maldives campaign on social media in India, which accounted for the largest number of visitors to its tropical beaches last year. Muizzu has appealed to China to send more tourists to the country. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Friday that he has ordered his military to prepare a plan to evacuate civilians from the southern Gaza Strip town of Rafah ahead of an expected ground invasion. It is impossible to achieve the goal of the war of eliminating Hamas by leaving four Hamas battalions in Rafah, he said in a statement. On the contrary, it is clear that intense activity in Rafah requires that civilians evacuate the areas of combat. He said he has asked the Israel Defense Forces to submit a plan to his cabinet for evacuating the civilians and destroying the battalions. The statement did not say by when he wanted the plan or to where he thought the more than 1.4 million Palestinians could evacuate. United Nations officials have repeatedly said nowhere in Gaza is safe. Netanyahu said this week that Rafah and the city of Khan Younis are the "two last strongholds of Hamas." Hamas is a U.S.-designated terror group. Rafah borders Egypt, and officials there have warned that any ground operation in the area or mass displacement across the border would undermine its 40-year-old peace treaty with Israel. It is also the main humanitarian entry point to Gaza. Intense fighting could further hamper relief efforts. Israel launched new strikes overnight in Rafah, which witnesses and hospital officials said killed at least eight people, including women and children. U.S. warning Netanyahus announcement comes hours after U.S. President Joe Biden warned that Israels conduct in military operations in Gaza has been over the top. At a news conference late Thursday, Biden delivered some of his strongest criticism yet of the Israeli military campaign, which Hamas health officials say has killed more than 27,000 Palestinians. Israel launched its war after Hamas fighters infiltrated southern Israel on October 7 and killed 1,200 people and kidnapped 240 others. The Pentagon said Friday that Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin spoke with his Israeli counterpart, Yoav Gallant, Thursday. During their discussions, the U.S. defense chief reiterated the need to protect civilians as Israel conducts its operations against Hamas. White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby also issued a stern warning to Israel about Rafah. "Absent any full consideration of protecting civilians at that scale in Gaza, military operations right now would be a disaster for those people, and it's not something that we would support," he told reporters on Thursday. His comments echoed those of U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who said there would be the risk of a "gigantic tragedy" if the IDF expands its offensive into the city. We would not support in any way forced displacement, which goes against international law, a Guterres spokesperson told reporters Friday. The head of the U.N. agency that assists Palestinians said there is a growing sense of anxiety and panic in the town because people do not know where to go. Any large-scale military operation among this population can only lead to an additional layer of endless tragedy that's unfolding," UNRWA Commissioner General Philippe Lazzarini said. Signaling phase Israel is unlikely to move quickly into Rafah as long as the IDF continues fighting in Khan Younis and around its tunnels, where it thinks that Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, a native of Khan Younis, is hiding, said David Makovsky, the Ziegler distinguished fellow at The Washington Institute and director of the Koret Project on Arab-Israel Relations. "I think Netanyahu and Gallant want to signal that Israel is not afraid of going into Rafah," he told VOA. "But I think we are still talking about the signaling phase." Washington is also concerned that an invasion of Rafah could have a spillover effect into Egypt. "What could happen here with the relationship with Egypt? What will happen if the Palestinians try and rush into Egypt? said Jonathan Rynhold, head of the Political Studies Department at Bar-Ilan University. How are you going to deal with that? Those are the kinds of questions that are being asked by the U.S. to the Israelis, he told VOA. Despite its increasingly blunt public warnings to Israel, the U.S. remains a staunch supporter of Israel's military campaign to eliminate Hamas. The White House has said it is optimistic that there is still a path toward a temporary cease-fire. Next week, Biden is set to meet with Jordan's King Abdullah as part of his push for a cease-fire and hostage release deal. Aaron David Miller, senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, warned that a deal may be elusive because "neither Hamas nor the Israelis right now are really interested." "There's no urgency for either of them in a comprehensive sort of cessation of hostilities," he said. "The only people that appear to be in a hurry is the Biden administration." The U.N.s top Middle East diplomat, Tor Wennesland, warned this week that a cease-fire is urgent before the Muslim holy month of Ramadan begins around March 10, otherwise tensions could further boil over in Jerusalem around holy sites. VOA U.N. Correspondent Margaret Besheer and White House Correspondent Patsy Widakuswara contributed to this report. Some information for this report came from The Associated Press and Reuters. Having enough feed for livestock is critical to the food security of many African countries. Some farmers are considering adopting a Chinese-engineered grass called Juncao, advertised as high-yielding and fast-maturing. Some scientists advise caution. Francis Ontomwa has more from Kajiado, Kenya. Video: Amos Wangwa. UNICEF warns that 300 days of conflict in Sudan has unleashed a wave of atrocities on children, with hundreds of thousands suffering from hunger, violence and horrific abuse. According to the U.N. children's agency, 4 million children in Sudan have been displaced, in what is seen as "the world's largest child displacement crisis." To break down the magnitude of the conditions, UNICEF said 13,000 children have been displaced and thrust into a situation of chaos and despair every day for the past 300 days. UNICEF spokesperson James Elder, who had just returned from Sudan, said Friday that the children have lost everything. He said they are not safe from the fighting raging around them, and they have lost all their possessions; many are separated from family and friends. He said they have lost hope that things will get better. "The consequences of the past 300 days mean that more than 700,000 children are likely to suffer from the most dangerous form of malnutrition this year. UNICEF will not be able to treat more than 300,000 of those without improved access and without additional support. In that case, tens of thousands would likely die," he said. During the same period, Elder said, there has been a five-fold increase in verified cases of killings, sexual violence and recruitment from a year ago. That, he observed, equates to a terrifying number of children killed, raped or recruited. "And these numbers are the tip of the iceberg," he said. The war between Sudan's national army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces is ravaging a whole society, he said, with the fighting impeding humanitarian aid from reaching millions of desperate people. He said two-thirds of the population lack access to health care, warning that Sudan's shattered health system threatened to kill many more children than the armed conflict itself. "This is a perfect storm," he said. "You have a devastated health system, an ongoing conflict, incredible numbers of seriously malnourished children, woefully depleted aid and obstruction to that aid. "Tens of thousands of children are dying from this," he said. The World Food Program said 18 million people in Sudan face acute hunger, including 4.9 million people who already face emergency levels of food insecurity, according to Tarik Jasarevic, a World Health Organization spokesperson. The latest food security analysis for Sudan shows the highest levels of hunger ever recorded during the October-February harvest season. That follows the RSF's capture of Wad Madani, the capital of Al Jezira state, known as the country's breadbasket. U.N. agencies fear conflict-hit hot spots Khartoum, Kordofan and Darfur will face catastrophic hunger conditions by the next lean season, which could begin next month if humanitarian assistance is not significantly increased. Jasarevic said people are dying from a lack of access to basic and essential health care and medicine. He said disease outbreaks are spreading throughout the country, noting that more than 10,000 cases of cholera and nearly 300 deaths have been reported from 11 of Sudan's 18 states. He added that reports of measles, malaria, dengue and other potentially deadly diseases also are being received from several states. Jasarevic said that acute hunger and malnutrition will have a lasting generational impact on the health of the population but that many lives can still be saved. "Babies can recover very quickly from severe acute malnutrition. If there is a possibility to provide them with therapeutic feeding, they can go from the brink of death to playing in these health centers in a matter of days," he said. UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell warned, "The lethal combination of malnutrition, mass displacement and disease is growing by the day, and we have an extremely short window to prevent a massive loss of life. "We need safe, sustained, and unimpeded humanitarian access across conflict lines and across borders. We need international support to help sustain the essential services and systems that children rely on for survival," she said. Earlier this week, the United Nations launched a $4.1 billion appeal to provide urgent aid for 14.7 million people inside Sudan and 2.7 million people who have taken refuge in five neighboring countries. At the event, Martin Griffiths, the U.N. undersecretary general for humanitarian affairs and emergency relief coordinator, said that he had been in touch with Sudan's two rival generals about restarting negotiations for humanitarian access. He said he was awaiting a response to his request. In the meantime, UNICEF's Elder said the war, which began April 15, is ravaging a whole society and "destroying the future of an entire generation." "The way to get out of this nightmare is for those in power to negotiate a cease-fire and ensure aid is no longer blocked," he said. "Those in the region need to show leadership and those in donor countries need to show compassion and humanity" by helping the many at-risk children to survive. In a more than two-hour-long, pre-recorded interview with Vladimir Putin released on Thursday, former Fox News anchor Tucker Carlson questioned the Russian president on the ongoing war in Ukraine and jailed American journalist Evan Gershkovich. Since announcing the interview this week, Carlson has faced criticism from journalists who say he disregarded Russia's poor press freedom record and might help promote Russian propaganda. At the beginning of the interview, Carlson appeared sympathetic to the revisionist history Putin provided to justify Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, calling it the Russian leader's "sincere point of view." But Carlson did push back on Putin's claims that Gershkovich a reporter at The Wall Street Journal is a spy and asked if Russia would release the journalist to him to return to the United States. "There is no taboo to settle this issue," Putin said in the interview. "We are willing to solve it, but there are certain terms being discussed via special services channels. I believe an agreement can be reached." In Russia, intelligence agencies are often unofficially referred to as special services. Reporter still denies charges Putin's remarks are his most extensive public comments on Gershkovich since The Wall Street Journal reporter was jailed in March 2023 on spying charges that are widely viewed as groundless and politically motivated. Gershkovich, his employer and the U.S. government vehemently deny the charges against the reporter. The U.S. State Department also has declared Gershkovich wrongfully detained. Putin appeared to imply that Moscow would be willing to exchange Gershkovich for a Russian assassin jailed in Germany. The hitman in question is Vadim Krasikov. A German court in 2021 found Krasikov guilty of fatally shooting a former Chechen rebel leader in Berlin in 2019. The court said Russian authorities ordered the killing and sentenced Krasikov to life in prison. "That person, due to patriotic sentiments, eliminated a bandit in one of the European capitals," Putin said. The Journal previously reported that Moscow wants Krasikov released in a prisoner swap, possibly for Gershkovich. No evidence of espionage Despite jailing Gershkovich for nearly one year on spying charges, Moscow has so far failed to publicly provide any evidence to support the espionage claims. In the interview, Putin doubled down on the spying allegations but did not provide any evidence. Carlson pushed back on the espionage claims, at one point saying, "The guy's obviously not a spy." The former Fox News anchor also asked Putin if he would release Gershkovich "as a sign of your decency." Putin responded by saying Russia has run out of "gestures of goodwill." Absent from the interview was a mention of the second American journalist currently jailed in Russia: Alsu Kurmasheva, a Prague-based editor at the Tatar-Bashkir Service of VOA's sister outlet, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. A dual U.S.-Russian national, Kurmasheva traveled to Russia in May 2023 for a family emergency. When she tried to leave the country in June, her passports were confiscated. She was waiting for her passports to be returned when she was detained in October on charges of failing to register as a "foreign agent." Authorities later added charges of spreading false information about the Russian military. Kurmasheva and her employer reject the charges against her. Four months after the Hamas attacks on Israeli communities bordering Gaza, some of the estimated 125,000 Israelis displaced from those areas are returning to their homes. Others, however, say they still dont feel safe and are not sure when they will go back. Linda Gradstein reports for VOA from Sderot. Video: Ricki Rosen This video contains graphic images and may not be suitable for all viewers. An effort to declare former U.S. President Donald Trump disqualified from running for the White House again was met with deep skepticism from the U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday, with justices across the ideological spectrum expressing doubts about its legal validity as well as concerns about the practical effects of removing him from the ballot. The U.S. high court was reviewing a decision by the Supreme Court of the state of Colorado that found that under the 14th Amendment to the Constitution, Trump is ineligible to hold the office of presidency and, therefore, ordered him removed from Republican primary election ballots in the state. A ruling in support of the Colorado decision would open the door to Trump's being removed from other state primary ballots on similar charges and, if he is nonetheless chosen as the Republican Party's presidential nominee, would raise questions about whether he can appear on general election ballots in November. Associate Justice Elena Kagan, one of the members of the court's liberal-leaning minority, framed a question that appeared to be troubling a number of her colleagues. "Why should a single state have the ability to make this determination, not only for their own citizens, but for the rest of the nation?" she demanded. Associate Justice Amy Coney Barrett, a member of the court's conservative majority, echoed the concern, saying, "It just doesn't seem like a state call." 14th Amendment argument The Colorado case is based on the 14th Amendment to the Constitution, a measure enacted in the wake of the Civil War more than 150 years ago. It was designed to bar former U.S. officials who betrayed an oath to defend the Constitution and joined the rebellious Confederate states from holding office or other positions of public responsibility in the future. The relevant portion of Section 3 of the amendment holds that "No person shall be a Senator or Representative in Congress, or elector of President and Vice-President, or hold any office, civil or military, under the United States, or under any State, who, having previously taken an oath, as a member of Congress, or as an officer of the United States, or as a member of any State legislature, or as an executive or judicial officer of any State, to support the Constitution of the United States, shall have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same." The secretary of state of Colorado declared that because of Trump's instigation of the assault on the Capitol on January 6, 2021, when a pro-Trump mob attempted to disrupt Congress as it certified Joe Biden's victory in the 2020 presidential election, he was guilty of insurrection and therefore ineligible to hold the presidency. Multiple arguments Jonathan Mitchell, an attorney representing the former president, made a number of arguments in favor of striking down the Colorado court's decision, often hinging on close readings of the text of the Constitution. Mitchell insisted that Trump, despite serving for four years as president, has never been "an officer of the United States" within the meaning of the amendment, citing examples from the Constitution that appear to define officers as a group excluding the president. He also argued that allowing Colorado to bar Trump from the ballot would be unlawful because the plain text of the amendment bars former insurrectionists only from serving in office, not from running for office. He pointed out that Section 3 of the amendment specifically states that a two-thirds majority of both houses of Congress can undo a former insurrectionist's disqualification. In a memorable moment in the more than two-hour proceeding, Mitchell argued that even if a presidential candidate admitted to being a former insurrectionist, it would be unlawful for a state to bar that person from the ballot because of the possibility that between the election and the day of inauguration Congress might act to remove the disqualification. Tough questioning Jason Murray, arguing in support of the Colorado ruling, challenged the contention that Trump, despite being president, was never an officer of the United States. He argued that Mitchell's reading of the amendment appears to make a "special exception" to the rules applicable only to Trump. "There is no possible rationale for such an exemption and the court should reject the claim that the framers made an extraordinary mistake," he said. He also pushed back against the notion that a ruling in favor of the Colorado decision would lead to chaos as other states followed on with their own efforts to remove candidates from the ballot. Murray contended that the Supreme Court has the ability to adjudicate any such claims. However, he faced aggressive questions from a number of justices on the panel who appeared to have concerns that the implications of a ruling in favor of Colorado would be large and unpredictable. 'Daunting consequence' Chief Justice John Roberts questioned the fundamental assumptions underlying the Colorado court's decision, pointing out that the 14th Amendment was designed to allow the federal government to place limits on states' elections, not to allow individual states to take steps with nationwide impact. "The whole point of the 14th Amendment was to restrict state power, right?" Roberts asked. The chief justice went on to say that allowing the Colorado decision to stand would most likely provoke efforts across the country by partisans of both parties to have the rival party's candidate removed from state ballots. "That's a pretty daunting consequence," Roberts said. Associate Justice Samuel Alito appeared to agree during his questioning of Colorado Solicitor General Shannon Stevenson, at one point warning of "unmanageable consequences" if the ruling is upheld. "We've been told that if what Colorado did here is sustained, other states are going to retaliate, and they're going to potentially exclude another candidate from the ballot," Alito said. "What about that situation?" A good day for Trump Kermit Roosevelt, a law professor at the University of Pennsylvania, told VOA that, on balance, the upshot of the day's argument was that the court appears disposed to rule in Trump's favor, blocking Colorado from removing him from the ballot. "I thought the argument went very well for Trump," Roosevelt said. "The justices, just coming in, really seemed inclined to reverse. In a lot of the arguments, they seemed to be casting about for ways to do that." Roosevelt, who submitted an amicus brief to the court in favor of the Colorado ruling, said that in his view the court seemed to be "receptive" to the argument that "this isn't something that one state can do on its own that there's a problem if states are trying to do this for a nationwide office." However, he said that if the court rules against Colorado on the basis of the potential consequences of allowing one state to block ballot access in a national election, that will not address the fundamental question of whether Trump committed insurrection and is therefore ineligible to hold the office of president. Should Trump win the election, Roosevelt said, he might nevertheless find himself in court again confronting opponents who claim that he is not qualified to be inaugurated. Thousands of Polish farmers Friday staged blockades at 250 locations and blocked border crossings into Ukraine to protest European Union climate change measures and the flow of agricultural goods into the country. Polish media and video on social media showed long lines of tractors at several border crossings with Ukraine and on highways around cities throughout the country. The nations Polsat news channel reported that police in Warsaw issued traffic warnings for much of the nation, particularly at the Ukraine border. In Poznan, about 300 kilometers (186 miles) west of Warsaw, farmers parked about 1,000 tractors in front of the regional government offices. Polands farmers union said Fridays actions kick off a monthlong general strike. The Polish farmers join a wider series of protests by their counterparts around Europe in recent weeks, including in Germany, France, Romania, Greece, Lithuania, Belgium and Latvia. While Poland joins farmers from those nations in protesting the EU-imposed environmental regulations, Polands farmers union and agricultural leaders say they have been hurt in particular by the flow of cheaper goods coming into the country from Ukraine, creating unfair competition. In an interview with Polsat this week, Polands Agriculture Minister Czesaw Siekierski said the striking farmers have legitimate complaints and are protesting in the interest of all of us as consumers. The EU relaxed some tariffs and regulations regarding Ukraines agricultural products after Russias invasion in 2022. Siekierski said Poland has been in high-level talks with EU agricultural officials about the flow of goods from Ukraine. Regarding the EU climate policy regulations, Siekierski said while the nations farmers have always cared about the environment, some of the EU requirements were so unreasonable, he compared them to guidelines issued when Poland was under communism. Earlier this week, the EUs executive branch, the European Commission, withdrew new pesticide regulations as a concession to the blocs striking farmers. The regulations would have cut pesticide use in half by 2030. Speaking to the EU parliament in Strasbourg Tuesday, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said farmers deserved to be heard. "Farmers need a worthwhile business case for nature-enhancing measures. Perhaps we have not made that case convincingly," she said. Some information for this report was provided by The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse The sage Confucius once sought the counsel of another wise man, Laozi (Lao Tzu), the founder of Taoism, 20 years his senior. "Beyond appearances and behavior that are less than sharp, there often lies a noble soul," Laozi told Confucius, who was probably in his 20s or 30s when this encounter happened, in the first half of the sixth century BC. "Rid yourself of arrogance and desire, and rein in your vanity and self-delusion, none of which will serve you well. That's all I have to say." A bronze mirror with dragon design from the eighth to ninth centuries. CHINA DAILY Laozi is reputed to have composed Tao Te Ching (Dao De Jing, the foundational work of Taoism) in just one session, and this one meeting with Confucius was apparently all that was needed to awe this equally brilliant mind. "I know that birds can fly, fish can swim, and beasts can run," Confucius would later tell his disciples. "To capture them you need arrows, angling lines and nets. But I had no idea of a dragon, riding on winds and clouds, and soaring to heaven until I met Laozi." In short, a dragon could be neither defined nor confined. Four centuries after that meeting, Confucianism was enshrined by a powerful Chinese emperor as the guiding ideology for his society. Yet Taoism continued to exert its influence culturally and artistically. In due time both incorporated the image of a dragon in their visual expressions. Confucius died in 479 BC, and his humble residence in what is today the city of Qufu, Shandong province, was turned into a memorial the following year. In the ensuing centuries, the small compound was continuously expanded and added to, until it became the ultimate shrine for the wise man the temple of all Confucius temples in China. One of its most remarkable architectural features was 10 carved stone columns in front of the temple's main hall, underneath its eaves. The columns are wrapped in the scaled, sinuous bodies of majestic dragons, half-hidden in clouds. Manes billowing and eyes glistening with intensity, they are there to watch over the sacred place and to ensure the social order as envisioned by the master philosopher. The columns were erected around 1500, during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), with major renovations done during the ensuing Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). In court portraits both the Ming and Qing rulers routinely wear voluminous dragon robes whose resplendent patterns, woven or embroidered into shimmering silk, constitute for many the most iconic images of a Chinese dragon. Equally well-known, at least to aficionados of ancient Chinese art, is a mid-13th-century ink painting titled Nine Dragons, held by the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Within a space of 9 meters the entire work stretches about 15 meters, including many postscripts the artist Chen Rong captured the elusive nature of his mythical protagonists by letting them in and out of a seemingly endless continuum of clouds, mist and whirlpools. The hand scroll, painted during the rule of Zhao Yun, a devout Taoist and fifth emperor of the Southern Song Dynasty (11271279), is believed to have referred directly to the dynamic force of nature that Taoism has long celebrated. Elsewhere, the dragon, painted in gold, lends itself to a 15th-century red lacquer box containing Buddhist sutras before making another appearance alongside a tiger in two hanging scrolls flanking a wooden statue of Guanyin, a Buddhist icon known as the goddess of mercy. All evidence points to Chinese dragons moving freely between the worlds of Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism. With their powerful claws gripping the imagination of generations of Chinese, they propelled their way across the country's cultural and artistic history, becoming an enduring phenomenon with a profound impact on the nation's consciousness. The answer to the obvious question of where the Chinese dragon came from is as elusive as the creature itself. Based on the dragon's scaled, serpentine body, many researchers have suggested a connection with either snake or crocodile or both. While the former seems to have the capacity to arouse awe and fear, and has served throughout human history as a totem for many ancient cultures, the latter is believed to have once existed in relatively large numbers in the Yellow River Basin, one of the cradles of Chinese civilization. Other experts have gone a few steps further. Some, after having studied the oracle bone script carved by ancient Chinese somewhere between the 17th and 11th centuries BC, posit that the image of a dragon may have been born out of that of a seahorse. Others point to the colossal column of a tornado reaching down from a turbulent sky, saying that is what I Ching (Book of Changes), an ancient Chinese divination text, meant in its description of a dragon that "battled in the wilderness, its blood the color of a reddish dark (heaven) and yellow (earth)". Others propose, if tentatively, that a dragon took its jagged form from lightning, and its sound the Chinese word for dragon is pronounced loong from the thunderous roar that follows. All those natural phenomena are linked, directly or indirectly, to one element: water. On one hand, depictions abound in ancient Chinese literature of tempestuous dragons that would announce their arrival by a loud rumble, before dumping their fury in a torrential downpour that would render the world blurry. On the other hand, a large part of the dragon worship that was to evolve later was centered on its power over the weather, either showering rain on cracked earth or making it stop once the land was flooded. Across the country, numerous dragon king temples were built, all by those praying for a good harvest, many still in existence today. It is just as interesting to know that Dong Zhongshu (179-104 BC), a prominent thinker and influential politician during the Western Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 24), once wrote about invoking dragons during drought, by making clay figurines and having young boys pace and dance among them. Dong, who acted as a trusted counselor to the powerful Western Han Emperor Wudi, was responsible for putting Confucianism on the pedestal, once and for all, by making it the official ideology for all the Chinese imperial states that followed. Sending out envoys on a westward journey that was to give rise to the ancient Silk Road, Emperor Wudi also redrew the map for China, partly by driving back invading forces from the northern steppes, military campaigns deemed to have taken his armies, at one point, to Lake Baikal in southern Siberia. Some scholars believe that was the place referred to as "the North Sea" by ancient Chinese texts, which talked about "the Four Seas" being guarded by mighty dragons. (The other three correspond with what is today called the South China Sea, East China Sea and Qinghai Lake in Qinghai province, western China.) Mythology, after all, may not be as removed from history as most people tend to think. When it comes to habits and traits, the Chinese dragon, dwelling either in the clouds or at the bottom of lakes, seems to have little in common with its Western counterpart, which occupies lairs or caves. While fire-breathing Western dragons are often portrayed in classic literature as a destructive force, the water-spraying Chinese dragons are mostly venerated for being a savior and enabler capable of bringing an abundant yield of crops or simply good fortune. Thus comes their well-earned place in the Chinese zodiac, which assigns an animal and its reputed attributes to each year in a repeating 12-year cycle. The dragon is there with the tiger, the ox, the horse, and eight others, the only one absent from real life. Yet the dragon seems to have worked that absence to its own advantage, engaging the creative imagination of Chinese artists and artisans from time immemorial. Take for example the world-renowned bronze wares made throughout the Shang and Zhou dynasties between the 17th century and third century BC. It was on the surfaces of these wares that dragon images effectively went into a visual explosion, their bodies undulating and intertwining with remarkable grace and precision. The complexity of the patterns points to the sophisticated thinking behind the painstaking effort the making of such extravagant wares must have entailed. These were sacrificial bronzes used during rituals by the same people who had engraved the word dragon on oracle bones for augury purposes. The Shang people, in their endeavor to communicate with heaven and earth and those who preceded them, seemed to have once again turned to the dragon that, by traversing the space between the terrestrial and the celestial, also helped to bridge the worlds of the human and the divine, the mortal and the eternal. Inseparable from that sense of divinity was a permanency that people had always longed for themselves. For members of the ruling elite who lived during the Western Han Dynasty, one way to achieve it was to be laid to rest with a casket laden with jade, a material that, as with the dragon, Chinese culture has treated with reverence. From the burial ground of a vassal king in today's Xuzhou city, Jiangsu province, archaeologists unearthed what is believed to be some of the most majestic jade dragons yielded by any Han Dynasty tomb, or for that matter any ancient Chinese tomb. Horned and bearded, with flowing mane on the back and upwardly curled tufts of hair sprouting from the ankles, these S-shaped dragons are an amalgam of fantastical details, all contained within the graceful curves which in turn were realized with powerful simplicity. Their task was to carry the soul of the deceased to heaven while keeping the body intact, until the two were reunited. Nobleness, the very quality the ancient Chinese associated with jade, was exactly what they expected from the dragon. Since the concept of "rule by virtue" was deeply embedded in Confucianism, it seems only natural that the dragon, a symbol of moral strength, would gradually evolve into an emblem of royal power. No one knows exactly when the idea that a Chinese emperor was a "real dragon" a man mandated by Heaven to rule started to take hold. However, Zhao Feng, a former director of the China National Silk Museum in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, says dragon robes as we know them today have probably existed since the time of the powerful Tang empire (618-907), whose territories extended all the way westward to present-day Afghanistan. "No contemporaneous images have been found of a dragon robedonning Tang emperor," Zhao says. "However, we do have a mural from the Mogao Caves showing a Uygur ruler who lived in the late 10th century, in the decades after Tang's demise, wearing a dress decorated with the iconic dragon roundel pattern." Sitting on the ancient Silk Road in what is now the city of Dunhuang, Gansu province, the world-renowned caves Zhao refers to stood witness to the frequent cultural exchanges along the route. The oldest archaeological artifact of the dragon robe, Zhao says, belonged to a ruler of the Liao Dynasty (916-1125) of North China, founded by a clan of the ethnic minority Khitan people. The Khitan rulers, while pushing their borders against their neighbor, the ethnic majority Han people-dominated Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127), were more than eager to take a few pages from their rival's cultural books. This was before the Mongol rulers of the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) codified, for the first time, the use of dragon robes as the official court dress. The same people also put carved jade dragons on the top of their headdresses. "Such was the symbolic significance of the dragon that it cut through various cultural divides to be embraced by all who considered themselves legitimate rulers on the Chinese land," Zhao says. In the meantime, the creature never stopped reinventing itself. The gilt bronze dragons of the Tang Dynasty are infused with a fierce dynamism reflective of the verve and vigor of Tang society. Their counterparts in the ensuing Song Dynasty (960-1279), during which a literati culture flourished, are equally imposing, but in a more dignified, stately way. Further on in history, the Mongol people of the Yuan Dynasty channeled their love of the colors blue and white into porcelain making, creating fine china with patterns depicting blue dragons surging through rolling clouds or frothy waves. While the theme stayed popular for the next 600 years, a palette of vibrant hues was added during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The dragon, which may come in red or green, bursts through a multicolored background to assert its presence. A dragon is always attuned to its day, culturally and aesthetically. Perhaps the ultimate place for one to be overpowered, at least visually, by Chinese dragons is in the Forbidden City in Beijing, built in the early 15th century to serve as the royal palaces until the end of the Qing Dynasty in 1911. Its largest hall, in which enthronement took place, is adorned with more than 12,600 dragons. These include carved ones on the marble stone platform leading to the hall's entrance, painted ones wrapped around the giant wooden pillars sustaining the weight of the hall's immense roof, as well as molded and enameled ones standing on both ends of the roof's central ridge. When a Ming or Qing emperor sat on his "dragon chair", a gilded wooden seat with 13 glistening dragons curling around every part of it, he would be doing so in front of a magnificent wooden screen seething with dragons, directly underneath an equally resplendent caisson ceiling from which the dragons cast down their deep gaze. During heavy rain, water would gush from the mouths of the stone dragon heads protruding from the stone balustrades outside the hall. They still function today. Tai He Dian, or the Hall of Supreme Harmony, was the name bestowed upon this place by the first Qing emperor who entered it. Given his background as a member of the ethnic minority Manchu from Northeast China, the man, only 7 at the time, and his court seemed to be fully aware of the thing that had held China together. All that said, it would be wrong to associate a Chinese dragon solely with royalty. In fact, it is its celebration by folk culture that has guaranteed its place in the hearts of hundreds of millions. Newlyweds routinely decorate their windows and doors with paper-cuttings of a dragon and a phoenix. Dragon dances are performed in anticipation of fortune and fortuity during each Chinese Lunar New Year, on village squares, in shopping malls and along streets. On the fifth day of the fifth month of the Chinese lunar calendar, dragon boats are raced across the country's lakes and rivers in memory of one man: Qu Yuan (340-278 BC), a brilliant poet who was patriotic to the hilt, and who drowned himself in the land of his exile. So what is a Chinese dragon after all? Throughout history, many have attempted to answer that question. Cao Cao, a warlord and poet who lived between the second and third centuries, compared a dragon to a man who adapts and acts on his chance a hero, to use his term. "A dragon can be both big and small; it can also go both high and low," he said. "When it is big, it announces its presence; when it is small, it conceals its existence. When it soars, it roams the cosmos; when it falls, it hides in colossal waves." In a sense, he was echoing Confucius, who nearly seven centuries earlier had talked with a disciple about the transformative nature of a dragon: "A piece of cloud, snake, fish, bird, worm a dragon can morph into anything it intends without becoming anything other than itself ... a manifestation of power and dignity, of honor and integrity, of strength and perseverance. "Yet this profound changeability has often prevented it from being fully described, depicted or understood." GREENSBORO These women do not do anything in name only. That would include roles as varied as overseeing the citys safety net as CEO of the United Way of Greater Greensboro a few years ago to opening doors for children as educators. And thats led to Yvonne Johnson, the citys first Black mayor; Shirley Frye, the first president of the integrated YWCA here and one of the few women in the city with their name on a building; Katie Dorsett, the first Black woman to hold a state Cabinet post; and Judge Elreta Melton Alexander-Ralston, one of the first Black female judges elected to the bench in the country. Like Vice President Kamala Harris, they are members of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., an international service organization whose Greensboro chapter is celebrating its 90th year of service and support with events throughout the weekend. Alpha Kappa Alpha, whose signature colors are pink and green, is the oldest Black sorority for college-educated women in the country and the local chapter, Beta Iota Omega, was the seventh graduate chapter established in North Carolina. Two of the Beta Iota Omega founders had helped start the student chapter at N.C. A&T State University while undergraduates there, and from that they did not want to let their engagement in sorority life end after college. They were very visionary women and persistent, Simone Langley, the groups president, said of the chapter founders and the others who joined them. Other local members affiliated with Beta Iota Omega range from longtime U.S. Congresswoman Alma Adams and Afrique Kilimanjaro, editor of The Carolina Peacemaker birthed in the 1960s to give a voice to the black community and to force those in power to listen to a bevy of local corporate executives, entrepreneurs, community volunteers and members of the medical community. Our members, both past and present, have made significant contributions to this community through the establishment of programs, funding scholarships, advocacy and the promotion of social responsibility, Langley said. Johnson and Frye are representative of what Alpha Kappa Alpha and its commitment to service and leadership look like in a community, Langley said. If you think about those two women in particular, they have given their lives to Greensboro and uplifting the community and bringing diversity and a different voice to the table, Langley said. Thats one of the reasons theyve planned a very public celebration. Thousands are expected to attend activities this weekend, including a gala at the Sheraton Four Seasons, worship service at Bennett College and bench dedication at Barber Park to the chartering of Beta Iota Omega. Community service projects leading to the weekend included the Dr. Martin L. King Jr. Freedom Walk and the Pink Goes Red for Heart Disease Awareness. Notable anniversary weekend guests include Alpha Kappa Alpha International First Vice President Charletta Wilson-Jacks and the Rev. Rosalyn R. Nichols, pastor of Freedoms Chapel Christian Church in Memphis. Ukraine said Friday that its military downed 10 Russia drones overnight in the eastern Kharkiv region. Meanwhile, Russias defense ministry said its militarys overnight operations included downing 19 Ukrainian drones over four regions Kursk, Bryansk, Oryol, and Krasnodar, and the Black Sea. On Thursday, after days of speculation in Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy fired General Valerii Zaluzhnyi, the countrys top military commander who has led the two-year fight against Russias invasion, and replaced him with Colonel-General Oleksandr Syrskyi. With the war seemingly at a stalemate, Zelenskyy said in a statement that he met with Zaluzhnyi, seen by some as a national hero for defending Ukraine, and thanked him for leading the battle against Moscows forces when many military analysts thought Ukraine would quickly be overrun. Nonetheless, Zelenskyy said it was time for a change in the militarys leadership. The time for such a renewal is now," Zelenskyy said on the X social media platform. "We discussed the renewal that the Armed Forces of Ukraine require. We also discussed who could be part of the renewed leadership of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, he said. Zelenskyy added that he asked Zaluzhnyi to remain "part of the team." In his own statement, Zaluzhnyi said that he had an "important and serious conversation" with Zelenskyy and that a decision was made to change battlefield tactics and strategy. "The tasks of 2022 are different from the tasks of 2024. Therefore, everyone must change and adapt to new realities as well. To win together, too," his statement said. Zaluzhnyi, 50, was viewed favorably by Kyivs troops, and some political analysts in Ukraine have speculated that he could someday oppose Zelenskyy for the presidency when elections resume after the war. The switch to Syrskyi, 58, could be jarring for troops. He commanded Ukraines ground troops and was credited with protecting Kyiv in the first month of the war and a successful counteroffensive in the northeastern Kharkiv region in fall 2022. But rank-and-file troops are said to view him as a Soviet-style commander who kept troops under fire too long in the eastern city of Bakhmut when Ukraine should have withdrawn. Both Zelenskyy and Zaluzhnyi posted a picture on their social media accounts of them smiling and shaking hands. Zaluzhnyi wrote, "A decision was made about the need to change approaches and strategy." Russian drones strike On the battlefield, Ukrainian officials reported Thursday that Russia attacked overnight with 17 drones, leaving damage in Mykolaiv and Odesa but no reported casualties. The Ukrainian air force said the countrys air defenses destroyed 11 of the drones over the Mykolaiv, Odesa, Vinnytsia and Dnipropetrovsk regions. Vitaliy Kim, the regional governor in Mykolaiv, said on Telegram there was damage to residential and industrial buildings. In Odesa, Regional Governor Oleh Kiper reported damage to an unfinished high-rise building and a school. Russias military said Thursday it shot down a Ukrainian drone that was targeting Crimea. The attacks came hours after Zelenskyy vowed in his nightly address to "retaliate against Russia" for every missile and drone it launches. Zelenskyy also said Ukraine will work to bolster its air defenses. The EU and NATO After talks with Zelenskyy in Kyiv on Wednesday, European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said the Ukrainian leader "asked for additional ammunition, drones and air defense systems." Borrell said his top priority is mobilizing European Union military aid for Ukraine. United States and NATO officials on Wednesday reaffirmed their strong support for Ukraines continued battle against Russia as top humanitarian leaders denounced a wave of missile attacks Zelenskyy said killed at least five people. U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan, speaking at NATO headquarters, sounded a confident tone, despite the dramatic collapse Wednesday of a Senate deal to fund Ukraines defense and buttress the southern U.S. border. In remarks delivered before the bill cratered, U.S. President Joe Biden said the lapse in U.S. support is "just what Putin wants." Sullivan, though, said he was hopeful. "Even in the last 24 hours, you've seen a significant number of Republicans come out and say that no matter what else happens, we need to move forward a package of support for Ukraine," he said. "As President Biden said [Tuesday], history will record any failure to deliver the type of assistance that's contained in the package that was put forward this week." He also stressed, as have other administration officials, that if Washington does not deliver, there is no Plan B. "At the end of the day, there is no alternative to the United States stepping up to the plate and providing a level of resources that allow Ukraine to have the artillery, the air defense systems and the other capabilities they need," Sullivan said in Brussels. "And time is of the essence in this regard. So, we're going to stay focused on that, and we believe that we still can and will deliver it." Some information for this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. U.S. President Joe Biden decried a Republican delay on approving new U.S. aid to Ukraine for its defensive war against Russia. "The failure of the United States Congress, if it occurs, not to support Ukraine is close to criminal neglect. It is outrageous," Biden said in the Oval Office of the White House, alongside German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Scholz made a whirlwind stop in Washington to support the president's efforts to gain funding for Ukraine. Scholz addressed growing concerns in Europe about the standoff between the Democratic president and House Republicans on Ukraine funding. "Without the support of United States, and without the support of the European states, Ukraine will have not a chance to defend its own country," Scholz said. The U.S. Senate is moving toward a final vote to advance a $95.3 billion military aid package, of which about $60 billion would go toward Ukraine's war with Russia. Earlier Friday, a bipartisan delegation of U.S. Congress members met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv, Ukraine, seeking to give assurances they would do their part to get crucial, stalled military aid legislation through the House of Representatives. The delegation consisted of four members of the House Intelligence Committee: Republicans Mike Turner and French Hill, along with Democrats Jason Crow and Abigail Spanberger. "The United States is working diligently in the House of Representatives and the Senate to secure the funding that is necessary in 2024," Turner told journalists at a press conference in Kyiv before the delegation left to meet Zelenskyy. In Washington, VOA's Ukrainian Service asked senators on Thursday if the Ukraine bill has a chance to pass. U.S. Senator Chris Murphy, a Democrat, said, "It's up to Republicans. Obviously, Democrats are ready to support Ukraine aid in any way, shape, or form. Republicans said last fall they would not vote for Ukraine aid unless we fixed the border. We did that. We got a bipartisan bill to fix the border. Republicans all voted against it yesterday. They all voted against Ukraine aid." Republican Senator Roger Marshall told VOA, "I'm not going to vote for any further military funding, supplemental funding, or anything else until we pass something that actually secures the border." Another Republican Senator, Bill Cassidy, defended the bill, telling VOA, "The United States needs to support allies, because there are bad countries out there attempting to stop, hurt the United States. It is in the United States' interests to support our allies." Senator Tommy Tuberville, also a Republican, told VOA he stood against the bill. "I haven't supported any Ukraine money to this point. I haven't decided where we're going to go with this. We do need more munitions." The U.S. has been Ukraine's largest supplier of military assistance in Ukraine's defensive war against Russia, but that help is stalled while Congress wrangles over a bill providing aid to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan. In his nightly video address Friday, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy expressed his appreciation for Washington's help in defending Ukraine's sovereignty and democracy from the beginning of the full-scale war. Zelenskyy underscored, however, that Ukraine continues to face extraordinary challenges. "In Europe, there are increasing voices about how the Kremlin is preparing to expand aggression," he said. "The continuation of American support is necessary. And I thank all our American partners who understand this." Zelenskyy added that "[Russian President Vladimir] Putin sobers up only when he sees strength before him." Russia ready to discuss prisoner swap, says Putin Meanwhile, Putin used an interview broadcast late Thursday with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson to urge Washington to recognize Moscow's interests and persuade Ukraine to sit down for talks. Putin said it's up to Washington to stop supplying weapons to Ukraine, which he called a U.S. "satellite," and to persuade Kyiv to negotiate, saying a deal was the way to end the war. Putin repeated his claim that the full-scale invasion in February 2022 which Kyiv and its allies describe as an unprovoked act of aggression was to protect Russian interests and prevent Ukraine from posing a threat to Russia by joining NATO. He also said the West won't succeed in inflicting a "strategic defeat" on Russia in Ukraine and rejected allegations that Moscow harbors plans to attack Poland or other NATO countries. Putin also asserted that Russia is ready to negotiate a prisoner exchange for Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who was jailed in March 2023 on espionage charges that he denies. The Russian leader suggested Moscow wants the release of a Russian imprisoned in Germany. At a press conference Thursday, White House National Security Spokesman John Kirby cautioned not to take Putin's comments "at face value," reminding that Russia was the one that initiated the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Relentless warfare Drones targeted civilian infrastructure late Friday in and near Kharkiv, Ukraine's second largest city, officials said. Regional governor Oleh Synehubov wrote on Telegram that drones had damaged civilian infrastructure in the city's Nemyshlianskyi district. Reporters from Suspilne public television observed the glow of a fire over the city. Viktor Tereshchenko, the top military official in Velykyi Burluk, a town east of Kharkiv, told Suspilne that drones had damaged a hospital and a restaurant. Officials reported an attack on a hospital in the town last week, prompting the evacuation of dozens of patients. In the Black Sea port of Odesa, the regional governor said a drone attack had injured one person. Three people were reported killed in shelling earlier in the day in a village in Sumy region, on the border with Russia. VOA Ukrainian's Kateryna Lisunova contributed to this story. Some information was provided by The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. The United States is giving no indication of relenting after its latest airstrike in Iraq targeting an Iranian-backed militia commander in downtown Baghdad sparked renewed anger and fresh calls for the removal of U.S. troops from the country. Instead, officials in Washington on Thursday defended Tuesdays strike and warned that the U.S. would not hesitate to act again should its forces come under further attacks. "We fully respect Iraqs sovereignty, White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby told reporters. But, look, if there were no attacks on our troops, who are there at the invitation of the Iraqi government, there would be no need for retaliatory strikes. Multiple U.S. military officials sent a similar message from the Pentagon. "If you attack and you hurt our people, we know who you are, and we will find you," said General Daniel Hokanson, the U.S. National Guard bureau chief, regarding the U.S. response to last months attack on a base in Jordan that killed three soldiers and injured 40 National Guard troops. There will be a bill to pay much greater than anything that was left on us, he added. The U.S. has blamed Iranian-backed militias, operating under the banner of the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, for the deadly attack on the Tower 22 base in Jordan, as well as for many of the 168 attacks on U.S. forces in Iraq and Syria dating to mid-October. Washingtons gaze, in particular, has fallen on Kataib Hezbollah, with some Pentagon officials going as far as to say that the attack in Jordan "bears the hallmarks of the prominent Iranian-backed group. Tuesdays airstrike targeted senior Kataib Hezbollah commander Wisam Mohammad al-Saedi. Initial U.S. statements said al-Saedi was responsible for directly planning and participating in attacks on U.S. forces in the region. But a U.S. official said Thursday that he was the top Kataib Hezbollah official for Syria, overseeing all operations in the country. The strike killing al-Saedi followed a wave of airstrikes last Friday on seven locations used by the Iranian-backed militias in Syria and Iraq. U.S. defense officials now believe those strikes destroyed more than 80 individual targets and killed or wounded 40 militia members. Yet the repeated strikes have stoked growing anger among Iraqi officials. Iraqi military spokesman Yehia Rasool early Thursday called the strike that killed al-Saedi a blatant assassination that showed no regard for civilian lives or international laws. The trajectory compels the Iraqi government more than ever to terminate the mission of this coalition, which has become a factor for instability and threatens to entangle Iraq in the cycle of conflict, he said in a statement posted on social media. A social media post from the office of Iraqi Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani likewise indicated it was time for U.S. troops, and those from the U.S.-led coalition against the Islamic State terror group, to leave. The prime minister highlighted Iraq's enhanced capabilities in combating terrorism, leading to the decision to end the coalition's mission as ISIS terrorist remnants no longer pose a threat to Iraq, the post said, using an acronym for the Islamic State, also known as IS or Daesh. The U.S. has about 2,500 troops in Iraq tasked with advising and assisting Iraqi Security Forces as they pursue the remnants of IS. Another 900 U.S. forces are stationed in Syria, charged with the same mission. And while the U.S. has been in talks with Iraq about eventually reducing the U.S. military footprint and transitioning from the counter-IS mission, officials suggested Thursday that the time has not yet come. In Iraq and Syria, they are down, but they're not out, said Pentagon press secretary Major General Patrick Ryder. And so, again, this work by an international coalition continues to try to prevent a resurgence. Ryder further called IS insidious when it comes to taking advantage of turmoil, adding, It's obviously not helpful when you have things like Iranian proxies attacking your forces that are there for that mission. U.S. counterterrorism and intelligence officials have estimated there are fewer than 2,000 IS fighters across Iraq and Syria, though some key allies have recently warned the terror group is resurging, carrying out more attacks while seeing its ranks grow. It is a warning the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, or SDF, repeated Thursday. We have seen a spike in movements of ISIS, said SDF commander General Mazloum Abdi, talking to reporters in Washington by video link from his headquarters in northeastern Syria. Abdi also warned that the group is taking a benefit from the constant attacks by the Iranian-backed militias, who have started targeting SDF positions in addition to their drone and missile attacks on U.S. forces. We do not have any protection measures against them," he said through a translator, adding that the SDF has requested anti-drone defense systems from Washington. One attack, against the SDF base at the Omar Oil Field this past Sunday, killed six SDF fighters. Abdi said another drone attack came close to hitting a prison in Hasakah, one of dozens of facilities holding a total of about 9,000 captured IS fighters. He said one drone hit the prisons roof, but that fortunately, U.S. forces downed the other three before they could do more serious damage. Despite the precarious situation, the SDF commander said he was not worried U.S. forces would be leaving in the short term. "We have been reassured by United States officials ... there's not going to be any withdrawal [from Syria] anytime soon," Abdi said, warning that should the U.S. change course, the result would be chaos. Many actors, forces, will be trying to take advantage, he said. U.S. presence on the ground is a main factor maintaining balance here." VOA Pentagon Correspondent Carla Babb and White House Bureau Chief Patsy Widakuswara contributed to this report. Uzbekistan journalists began their year with their biggest newsmaker, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, making the case for competitive and credible media, framing it as a needed antidote to the influence of foreign news outlets, principally those in Russia. "If we do not take the creation of national content in the information space into our own hands and assess world events from the lens of our national security, others will do it from abroad," Mirziyoyev said, addressing security officials in Tashkent on January 12. Without naming Moscow, Mirziyoyev was mainly referring to Russian propaganda, according to officials at the meeting. Just a few days earlier, on Russia's state-run Russian Today, or RT, ultranationalist Zakhar Prilepin had floated the idea of reannexing Uzbekistan. Tashkent promptly cautioned that such provocative statements "may have a negative impact" on relations. Russia's Foreign Ministry was quick to assert that Prilepin does not reflect Moscow's official stance. Uzbekistan's political concerns, however, extend beyond such aggressive remarks. The pervasive influence of Russian information and sometimes disinformation is palpable across Central Asia, broadcast via hundreds of 24/7 channels and other digital media. Trustworthy and resilient Uzbek media, Mirziyoyev underscored, is vital to the sovereignty and geopolitical interests of the state. "If we do not satisfy our people's need for news and analysis, outsiders will," said Mirziyoyev. "This is unacceptable." The president then asked the bureaucracy to work with journalists and bloggers to ensure truthful reporting, to be open to criticism, and constructively counter disinformation. Uzbek media professionals who spoke with VOA hope that Mirziyoyev means what they want less propaganda, more journalism. But this would require systemic reforms. 'But in reality ...' Gulnoza Khusanova, who possesses vast experience at Uzbekistan's only state-run broadcaster and private TV channels, wishes that news outlets and the government would support professional talent and allow them to practice their craft. "Journalists and bloggers eager to produce quality content need to be convinced they won't be getting into trouble prosecution and harassment when raising critical issues," she told VOA. "So, freedom is what our media need most." As a correspondent for UzReport TV within the presidential press pool, Khusanova appreciates Mirziyoyev's encouragement for a competent press. "But in reality, we see officials acting against his position as if they want to discredit him," she said. Uzbek courts sentenced several journalists and bloggers to prison in the last three years. Otabek Sattoriy, sentenced to six and a half years in 2021 for defamation and financial crimes he never admitted to, went home this week with a suspended sentence. Many media professionals took to social media to insist he never should have been prosecuted. The Uzbek public, says Khusanova, values news analysis and debate. "Since they lack them here, our people turn to Russian media," she said. "To effectively respond to this problem, we need independent media and robust journalism. What the government offers is not news but propaganda. No one follows and trusts it." Botirjon Shermuhammad, who spent years in Russia as a lawyer defending Central Asian migrants like himself, returned home in 2021 to launch Migrant.uz, a media network that has so far presented nearly 20 programs countering Russian disinformation, including about Uzbeks in Russia's war on Ukraine. "Since labor migration is a significant political and economic factor, what we cover has everything to do with Uzbekistan and the world," Shermuhammad told VOA. He too emphasizes the need for financially and professionally independent outlets. "We have a long way to go and must constantly train and experiment," he said. "We need an enabling space." Government grants welcome Shermuhammad thinks the government could fund the coverage of migration and environmental issues through grants, the way the United States Agency for International Development assisted his outlet in producing public awareness videos on Russian recruitment of migrants to fight in Ukraine. Expressing similar views, Uzbek editors and producers suggest the best thing the authorities can do now is stop pressuring the media and demonstrate that Mirziyoyev's words reflect the will of the system he runs. On February 2, the Mirziyoyev administration replaced Alisher Khodjaev, who had led the National Television and Radio Company (NTRC) for the last two decades a network often described by many Uzbeks as a government mouthpiece. Abdurashid Jurabayev, a key official from the prime minister's office, has assumed the role. "That does not change anything," said Anora Sodiqova, who started UzDiplomat.uz last year with a vision for hard-hitting journalism. "It still is a state monopoly, not turning into a public or private broadcaster. Yet another bureaucrat is in charge of it." Echoing colleagues around the country, Sodiqova yearns for integrity in government and media. Among many things, she worries that Uzbek ministers, deputies, lawmakers, mayors and governors regularly retain journalists and bloggers via bribes or sponsorships to do their public relations work. "Arbitrary conditions and negotiated questions are part of this charade, especially evident in interviews with influential political and business figures," she said. At the same time, Sodiqova recognizes that simply gaining access to those in power and having the ability to engage them in a discussion is a necessary evil that many journalists and bloggers readily embrace. "Disrupting high-levels and probing them with facts and evidence is not an easy task." In a recent podcast with bloggers, former Tashkent Mayor Jahongir Artikhodjaev, a business tycoon, belittled their influence at home and abroad, comparing their audience "perhaps totaling a million at most" with the followers of pop stars who amass several million on a single platform. Artikhodjaev joined the discussion on the condition that no questions would be asked about his controversial mayoral tenure marred by corruption allegations. The host bloggers contended that allowing him to talk business and share his worldview was nonetheless revealing, and that they had no intention to debate with him. This is the reason and manner through which Uzbekistan's media are deemed toothless, according to some prominent Uzbek journalists and bloggers. "But this does not justify control and lack of accountability from current and former politicians and executives," said Sodiqova. "They act as if they are doing us favors by giving interviews and as if they owe no explanations to the public." She and others also urge press services to respond to reporters' inquiries on pressing issues rather than push their products. "Right now, the Uzbek national media content consists of paid publicity and special interest promotion. What the public needs is fact-based critical reporting that we are failing to deliver," Sodiqova said. This story originated in VOA's Uzbek Service. On February 10, Asian American communities around the United States will ring in the Year of the Dragon with community carnivals, family gatherings, parades, traditional food, fireworks and other festivities. In many Asian countries, it is a festival that is celebrated for several days. In diaspora communities, particularly in cultural enclaves, Lunar New Year is visibly and joyfully celebrated. In the Chinese zodiac, 2024 is the Year of the Dragon. Different countries across Asia celebrate the new year in many ways and may follow a different zodiac. What is the Lunar New Year? The Lunar New Year known as the Spring Festival in China, Tet in Vietnam and Seollal in Korea is a major festival celebrated in several Asian countries. It is also widely celebrated by diaspora communities around the world. It begins with the first new moon of the lunar calendar and ends 15 days later, on the first full moon. Because the lunar calendar is based on the cycles of the moon, the dates of the holiday vary slightly each year, falling between late January and mid-February. What are the animals of the zodiac? Each year honors an animal based on the Chinese zodiac. The circle of 12 animals the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog and pig measure the cycles of time. Legend has it that a god beckoned all animals to bid him farewell before his departure from earth and only 12 of them showed up. The Vietnamese zodiac is slightly different, honoring the cat instead of the rabbit and the buffalo instead of the ox. What are some beliefs and traditions around the Lunar New Year? One well-known ancient legend speaks of Nian, a hideous monster that feasted on human flesh on New Years Day. Because the beast feared the color red, loud noises and fire, people put up red paper dragons on their doors, burned red lanterns all night and set off firecrackers to frighten and chase away the monster. To this day, the Lunar New Year celebration is centered around removing bad luck and welcoming all that is good and prosperous. Red is considered an auspicious color to ring in the new year. In many Asian cultures, the color symbolizes good fortune and joy. People dress up in red attire, decorate their homes with red paper lanterns and use red envelopes to give loved ones and friends money for the new year, symbolizing good wishes for the year ahead. Gambling and playing traditional games is common during this time across cultures. Ancestor worship is also common during this time. Many Korean families participate in a ritual called charye, in which female family members prepare food and male members serve it to ancestors. The final step of the ceremony, called eumbok, involves the entire family partaking in the food and seeking blessings from their ancestors for the coming year. Vietnamese people cook traditional dishes and place them on a home altar as a mark of respect for their ancestors. Some Indigenous people also celebrate Lunar New Year this time of year, including members of Mexico's Purepecha Indigenous group. How do diaspora communities celebrate? Members of Asian American communities around the United States also organize parades, carnivals and festivities around the Lunar New Year featuring lion and dragon dances, fireworks, traditional food and cultural performances. In addition to cleaning their homes, many buy new things for their home, such as furniture, and decorate using orchids and other brightly colored flowers. Lunar New Year is also celebrated as a cultural event by some Asian American Christians and is observed by several Catholic dioceses across the U.S. as well as other churches. What are some special foods for the new year? Each culture has its own list of special foods during the new year, including dumplings, rice cakes, spring rolls, tangerines, fish and meats. In the Chinese culture, for example, changshou mian or long-life noodles are consumed with a wish for a long, healthy and happy life. In Vietnamese culture, banh chung and banh tet traditional dishes made from glutinous rice are a must for the celebrations. To make a banh tet, banana leaves are lined with rice, soft mung beans and pork belly and rolled into a tight log, which is then wrapped in the leaves and tied up with strings. Koreans celebrate with tteokguk, a broth soup that contains thinly sliced rice cakes. Yemens Iran-backed Houthi rebels are continuing their monthslong campaign to target commercial ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden to show their solidarity with Hamas and opposition to Israel. Sympathetic X users, in turn, continue to fabricate or exaggerate the success of those strikes by repurposing old, unrelated images and footage to bolster the Houthis' disinformation narrative. On February 6, the Houthis military spokesman, Yahya Sarea, announced the group had hit two ships the Star Nasia and the Morning Tide which he respectively identified as U.S. and U.K. vessels. Despite systematically targeting civilian vessels in international waters a violation of international law Sarea spun those attacks as a response to aggression, claiming they reflected Yemens right to self-defense. On January 17, the United States redesignated the Houthis as a major terrorist group on account of those attacks. X users posting in multiple languages paired news of the February 6 strikes with unrelated footage, which drastically misrepresented how successful the Houthis attacks were. For example, on February 6, X user eHSzWWZEDxl1erX, with 18,000 followers, posted footage of a missile strike on a ship at sea. He added the following commentary in Arabic: With the help of God Almighty, the naval forces of the Yemeni Armed Forces carried out two military operations in the Red Sea, the first targeting an American ship (Star Nasia) and the other targeting a British ship (Morning Tide). That post had received 157,400 views, 1,700 reposts and 6,700 likes at the time of writing. Another user posting in Arabic, identified as yemen_sameer, posted the same video to X with this caption: This is what will happen by the power of God [to] US battleships and aircraft carriers. That post had received 11,000 views, 145 reposts and 519 likes as of the time of writing. Another user, posting in Spanish, Al_Baadaar, also shared the video on February 7 and summarized the Houthis announcement that they had struck the Star Nasia and the Morning Tide in the Red Sea. However, the collage of footage those X users shared shows the 2018 sinking of the ex-USS Racine (ex-Racine) by the U.S. and its allies. Ex-Racine, a Newport-class tank landing ship, was decommissioned in 1993 and removed from the U.S. Naval Vessel Register in 2008. On July 12, 2018, forces from Australia, Japan and the United States participated in the sinking exercise (SINKEX) of ex-Racine 55 nautical miles north of Kauai, Hawaii. That sinking exercise was part of the biennial Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise, the largest international maritime warfare exercise. U.S., Japanese and Australian forces launched a joint attack on ex-Racine with land, sea and air-based units. That included a live firing of surface-to-ship missiles by the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and the launch of a Naval Strike Missile from a launcher on the back of a U.S. Army Palletized Load System truck. The Royal Australian Air Force launched a Harpoon anti-ship missile from a P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft. The USS Olympia attack submarine finished off ex-Racine with a Harpoon anti-ship missile, followed by an MK-48 torpedo. Thats not the only footage falsely attributed to the February 6 attacks. Other X users repeated the Houthis announcement regarding the attack on the Morning Tide and the Star Nasia and paired it with footage from the 2021 X-Press Pearl container ship disaster. For example, X user soneerbozkurt shared that footage and wrote: The Houthi Ansurullah Movement released footage of its anti-ship missiles hitting the US Star Nasia and UK Morning Tide ships passing through the Red Sea #BREAKING" A similar post in Turkish from verified X user murkan06 was viewed over 61,000 times at the time of writing, receiving 574 reposts and 2,800 likes. Polygraph.info previously reported on how X users had attempted to pass off footage of the X-Press Pearl, which caught fire and eventually sank off the coast of Sri Lanka in June 2021, as a successful Houthi attack on U.K. or U.S. vessels in the Red Sea. The footage of the X-Press Pearl disaster had also been used as proof of a Houthi attack on a U.S. cargo ship earlier in January. In the case of the Morning Tide and the Star Nasia, the Houthis were relatively more successful, although the footage posted by X users greatly distorts how much damage the attacks inflicted. On February 6, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the Houthis had fired three anti-ship ballistic missiles at the Star Nasia. While the Houthis identified it as a U.S. ship, the Star Nasia is a Marshall Island-flagged, Greek owned-and-operated bulk carrier. The Star Nasia, according to CENTCOM, reported an explosion near the ship causing minor damage but no injuries. A Greek shipping ministry official told Reuters it is unclear whether a rocket or a sea mine caused the explosion. MV Star Nasia remains seaworthy and is continuing toward its destination, CENTOM said. The other ship which came under attack, the Morning Tide, is a Barbados-flagged general cargo ship owned by Furadino Shipping, a U.K. firm. The British militarys United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported a projectile was fired at a ship on February 6, which reports indicate was the Morning Tide. UKMTO said that a missile passed over the deck of the ship, causing slight damage to the bridge windows. The vessel and crew are safe. Vessel proceeding on planned passage, UKMTO said. Defacto secretary general of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Sengezo Tshabangus name is among a list of 14 lawmakers nominated by the party to fill posts left vacant following the recalling of several members of parliament and senators, which resulted in then leader Nelson Chamisa to quit two weeks ago saying CCC has been hijacked by President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the ruling Zanu PF. In a list contained in a state statutory instrument, former lawmakers Kucaca Phulu and Nomvula Mguni are set to return to parliament with colleagues, who were aligned to Douglas Mwonzoras Movement for Democratic Change and Tendai Bitis Peoples Democratic Party, a breakaway from the late Morgan Tsvangirais MDC. Biti and Professor Welshman Ncube, who led another faction of the MDC formation and are now in CCC, have distanced himself from Tshabangu. The list of nominees has rattled the CCC base with Tshabangus close associates - former Senate Khaliphani Pugeni and Albert Mhlanga - fuming over their exclusion. The latter said he has already filed an objection at the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission, seeking the nullification of the nomination of what he called friends of the chefs by Tshabangu, who has allegedly caused havoc in the party. Mhlanga said, We will take Tshabangu to court if need be but at the moment we have filed our complaint with ZEC. Wait for fireworks. Mhlanga and Pugeni are believed to have compiled their own list and submitted it to the electoral body, accused by CCC and other opposition parties of mishandling the 2023 general elections and Mnangagwas victory. But Tshabangu said Mhlanga and Pugeni have already been given a chance to represent other parties at local authority and national level. It is their democratic right to object to the list like any other citizen. There were only two lists in a population of about 400,000 people in Bulawayo in particular. If you are to streamline it, you are talking about the membership of the Citizens Coalition for Change maybe which was 200,000. So, there were few vacant positions for deployment in the Senate and House of Assembly. Yes, its understandable for them to feel otherwise. He said two have already served the people of Bulawayo and Matabeleland region. Mhlanga was given the opportunity. He served as a councilor and deputy mayor and member of parliament. Nobody complained when he was deployed in those positions and so is Mr. Khaliphani Pugeni who served as a senator and (there were) so many people who could have served in that position but he was chosen by the late Morgan Tsvangirai and he served in that capacity. So, we cant all fit in these positions. My understanding is that we need to support whoever is there (nominees) but if they are to object, if they are to write to ZEC, I will tell you, they wrote their lists and these are some of the reasons why they were left out. They had heir own lists, they had a parallel process, it didnt work and again its not going to work. Pugeni said he was devastated by Tshabangus nomination process and I have just noted that people want to use me and when they have achieved their mission they dump me. Tshabangu, who has dismissed claims that he is a Zanu PF puppet, has become the leader of the CCC faction as no one has shown interest in taking over the vacant post abandoned by Chamisa despite the presence of two vice presidents Biti and Ncube. Its unclear his faction has a constitution. No media source currently available The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. Ivorians celebrating after their team beat DR Congo to reach the final of the Africa Cup of Nations After days of speculation in Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Thursday fired General Valerii Zaluzhnyi, the countrys top military commander who has led the two-year fight against Russias invasion, and replaced him with Colonel-General Oleksandr Syrskyi. With the war seemingly at a stalemate, Zelenskyy said in a statement that he met with Zaluzhnyi, seen by some as a national hero for defending Ukraine, and thanked him for leading the battle against Moscows forces when many military analysts thought Ukraine would quickly be overrun. Nonetheless, Zelenskyy said it was time for a change in the militarys leadership. The time for such a renewal is now," Zelenskyy said on the X social media platform. "We discussed the renewal that the Armed Forces of Ukraine require. We also discussed who could be part of the renewed leadership of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, he said. Zelenskyy added that he asked Zaluzhnyi to remain "part of the team." In his own statement, Zaluzhnyi said that he had an "important and serious conversation" with Zelenskyy and that a decision was made to change battlefield tactics and strategy. "The tasks of 2022 are different from the tasks of 2024. Therefore, everyone must change and adapt to new realities as well. To win together, too," his statement said. Zaluzhnyi, 50, was viewed favorably by Kyivs troops, and some political analysts in Ukraine have speculated that he could someday oppose Zelenskyy for the presidency when elections resume after the war. The switch to Syrskyi, 58, could be jarring for troops. He commanded Ukraines ground troops and was credited with protecting Kyiv in the first month of the war and a successful counteroffensive in the northeastern Kharkiv region in fall 2022. But rank-and-file troops are said to view him as a Soviet-style commander who kept troops under fire too long in the eastern city of Bakhmut when Ukraine should have withdrawn. Zelenskyy and Zaluzhnyi posted a picture on their social media accounts of them smiling and shaking hands. Zaluzhnyi wrote, A decision was made about the need to change approaches and strategy. Russian drones strike On the battlefield, Ukrainian officials reported Thursday that Russia attacked overnight with 17 drones, leaving damage in Mykolaiv and Odesa but no reported casualties. The Ukrainian air force said the countrys air defenses destroyed 11 of the drones over the Mykolaiv, Odesa, Vinnytsia and Dnipropetrovsk regions. Vitaliy Kim, the regional governor in Mykolaiv, said on Telegram there was damage to residential and industrial buildings. In Odesa, Regional Governor Oleh Kiper reported damage to an unfinished high-rise building and a school. Russias military said Thursday it shot down a Ukrainian drone that was targeting Crimea. The attacks came hours after Zelenskyy vowed in his nightly address to retaliate against Russia for every missile and drone it launches. Zelenskyy also said Ukraine will work to bolster its air defenses. The EU and NATO After talks with Zelenskyy in Kyiv on Wednesday, European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said the Ukrainian leader asked for additional ammunition, drones and air defense systems. Borrell said his top priority is mobilizing European Union military aid for Ukraine. United States and NATO officials on Wednesday reaffirmed their strong support for Ukraines continued battle against Russia as top humanitarian leaders denounced a wave of missile attacks Zelenskyy said killed at least five people. U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan, speaking at NATO headquarters, sounded a confident tone, despite the dramatic collapse Wednesday of a Senate deal to fund Ukraines defense and buttress the southern U.S. border. In remarks delivered before the bill cratered, U.S. President Joe Biden said the lapse in U.S. support is just what Putin wants. SEE ALSO: Sullivan, though, said he was hopeful. Even in the last 24 hours, you've seen a significant number of Republicans come out and say that no matter what else happens, we need to move forward a package of support for Ukraine, he said. As President Biden said [Tuesday], history will record any failure to deliver the type of assistance that's contained in the package that was put forward this week. He also stressed, as have other administration officials, that if Washington does not deliver, there is no Plan B. At the end of the day, there is no alternative to the United States stepping up to the plate and providing a level of resources that allow Ukraine to have the artillery, the air defense systems and the other capabilities they need, Sullivan said in Brussels. And time is of the essence in this regard. So, we're going to stay focused on that, and we believe that we still can and will deliver it. Some information for this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. An angry, emotional US President Joe Biden defended his mental competence Thursday in a rare evening address to Americans to respond to biting comments in a report released hours earlier on his mishandling of classified documents. Appearing on live television from the White House, Biden was furious over the report's claim that he was unable to remember even the date of his son Beau's death in 2015, as well as other key moments in his life. "My memory is fine," he said. "There's even reference that I don't remember when my son died. How in the hell dare he raise that?" Biden said, visibly fighting to rein in his emotions. The report from special counsel Robert Hur should have been good news for Biden. It cleared him of any criminal wrongdoing in his storing of the classified documents, which he'd used while vice president under Barack Obama, at his private home and a former office. This stands in sharp contrast with a separate criminal investigation into Biden's likely November presidential rival Donald Trump, who is accused of taking vast quantities of top-secret documents after leaving the White House in 2021, then obstructing attempts to get them back. However, Hur unleashed a political bombshell, just nine months from the election, by saying the 81-year-old Democrat came across as a "well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory." Given Biden's reduced mental acuity, Hur said, a jury would not in any case have found him guilty on documents charges. Asked about that comment by reporters in the White House after his formal remarks, Biden said: "I am well meaning, and I'm an elderly man, and I know what the hell I'm doing." "I'm president and I put this country back on its feet," he said. "Take a look at what I've done since I've become president." Speaker Mike Johnson and other top Republican leaders of the House of Representatives called Hur's report "deeply disturbing" and said it showed Biden was "unfit" for the presidency. "A man too incapable of being held accountable for mishandling classified information is certainly unfit for the Oval Office," they said in a statement. - Issue hard to dispel - Earlier Thursday, Biden had declared that his exoneration by Hur on any legal issues meant "this matter is now closed." However, that clearly was not true -- as Biden's highly unusual, last-minute scheduling of televised remarks showed. Biden has long been fighting attacks from the right and also some within his own party that he is too old to be president. As he gears up for the November election against Trump -- a man he says poses an existential threat to US democracy -- Biden is campaigning on his long experience and his stewardship of a fast-recovering, post-Covid economy. "I'm the most qualified person in the United States to be president and finish the job," he said in the late-evening remarks. But it will be hard to shake the impact of Hur's stinging comments. Biden didn't help himself either by momentarily mixing up Mexico with Egypt while answering a reporter's question about Israel's war in Gaza. - Not 'accurate' or 'appropriate' - Hur was appointed by Biden's attorney general, Merrick Garland, last year after classified material was found at the president's home in Delaware and in a former office. The 388-page report said Biden had "willfully retained and disclosed classified materials" in the period after he left the vice presidency -- well before he defeated Trump in 2020 to become president. Hur -- previously nominated by Trump to be the lead prosecutor for the state of Maryland -- said documents about military and foreign policy in Afghanistan and other matters were recovered by FBI agents. However, "We conclude the evidence is not sufficient to convict, and we decline to recommend prosecution of Mr Biden for his retention of the classified Afghanistan documents," Hur said. Hur then said that "It would be difficult to convince a jury that they should convict him -- by then a former president well into his eighties -- of a serious felony that requires a mental state of willfulness." White House special counsel Richard Sauber and Biden's personal lawyer Bob Bauer attacked the comments as neither "accurate or appropriate." "The report uses highly prejudicial language to describe a commonplace occurrence among witnesses: a lack of recall of years-old events," they said in a letter to Hur. "Such comments have no place in a Department of Justice report." The president noted that he had granted five hours of interviews to the special counsel on October 8 and 9, right as he was handling the start of the Israel-Hamas crisis. bur-sms/acb Troopers charge Durham man in crash death GUILFORD COUNTY N.C. State Troopers have charged a Durham man with misdemeanor death by motor vehicle and failure to reduce speed in connection with the Monday multivehicle accident that killed a man south of Jamestown. A work van and a car were stopped at the intersection on US 29 South at Riverdale Road when southbound Alfonso Devon Allen, 39, allegedly crashed the 2017 International box truck he was driving into the back of the car, a 2020 Subaru Outback operated by Nicholas McCutcheon, 63, of Greensboro. The impact drove the Subaru into the rear of a 2002 Ford Econoline work van operated by Brian Keith Huston, 53, of Winston-Salem, according to SHP investigators. Driver impairment was not a factor in the crash, according to a SHP news release. Quinton Darnell Dean, 42, of Jacksonville, N.C., a back seat passenger in the Subaru, died at the scene. McCutcheon, who sustained serious injuries, was transported to Moses H. Cone Hospital for treatment, the release said. Huston and Allen suffered minor injuries and were transported to High Point Regional Hospital. City firefighters fight fire at Greensboro home GREENSBORO Firefighters were working to put out a blaze at a home on Alderwood Drive near I-73 on Thursday morning at around 10 a.m., according to a spokesman for the Greensboro Fire Department. Details about possible injuries and the cause of the fire were not immediately available. This is a developing story. Police: Crash leaves 3 seriously injured, 3 hurt, police say GREENSBORO Three people sustained serious injuries and three more were hurt Wednesday afternoon after an automobile accident along NC 68 at I-40, according to police. Details about the accident were not immediately available. This is a developing story. Rockingham sheriff issues warrants for suspect in break-ins ROCKINGHAM COUNTY The Rockingham County Sheriffs Office has issued felony arrest warrants for Dustin Lance Hooker, 34, wanted in connection with several January break-ins and larceny charges, authorities said in a news release. The sheriffs office asks that anyone who knows Hookers whereabouts contact investigators at 336-634-3232. To leave an anonymous tip, call Rockingham County Crime Stoppers at 336-349-9683. British museums, like others across Europe, are under pressure to return artworks taken during the colonial era, including Bronzes from Benin, royal treasures from Ghana and friezes from Greece. However, politicians have little appetite to change the legal framework that is currently blocking full restitutions by national museums, campaigners say. After half a century of discussions, the British Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) recently reached an agreement to loan Ghana gold and silver objects from the Ashanti royal court taken during the colonial era in 1874. The loan of these 32 pieces could last up to six years, according to the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, seat of the Ashanti kingdom in now modern-day Ghana. But Nana Oforiatta Ayim, special advisor to the Ghanaian government on culture, felt that the gesture was not enough. "Someone comes in to your home, and steals something from your house, keeps it in their house, and then X amount of years later comes up and says 'I'm going to lend you your things back'. It doesn't make any sense," she told the BBC. Some UK museums have managed to return artefacts, such as the 72 pieces -- including 12 Benin bronzes -- returned to Nigeria in 2022 by the Horniman Museum in London. But British laws dating from the 1960s and 1980s prevent national museums, such as the British Museum and the V&A, from making such restitutions. This is particularly relevant in the long-standing and symbolic quarrel between London and Athens over the future of the Parthenon friezes. British authorities say the sculptures, on display at the British Museum, were legally acquired in 1802, while Greece maintains they were looted when the country was under Ottoman rule. - Loan 'risk' - By offering loans rather than restitution, national museums are trying to respond to demands without transferring ownership of objects, Tatiana Flessas, associate professor of law at the London School of Economics (LSE), told AFP. But the British Museum would not "risk" lending the Parthenon marbles, "because it's completely evident that the Greeks will hold on to them," she added. It would be possible, in theory, to change the law, said Flessas, in a similar way to how artworks looted by the Nazis were returned after WWII. But Britain's Conservative government refuses to do so, even if public opinion is in favour. Some 64 percent of Britons support their return, according to a YouGov poll commissioned last June by the Parthenon Project, a group that believes the marbles should reside in Greece. Another YouGov poll in November found 49 percent in support, as opposed to 15 percent against, with the remainder either indifferent or undecided. "The government is absolutely out of step with the rest of the population", Lewis McNaught, founder of Returning Heritage, which campaigns for restitution, told AFP. "It is absolutely fixed on this idea that anything which removes objects from state collections is wokeish." - Not a priority - Opponents of restitution fear a domino effect, with cascading demands emptying British museums. The conservative Daily Telegraph last month argued that, after the announcement of the loan of Ghanaian treasures, it was now British museums which risk being "looted". But McNaught said that the number of objects potentially affected was limited, and would apply to less than one percent of the eight million objects in the British Museum. "The problem is some of those items are very high profile," he added. On mainland Europe, many countries have set up independent commissions on the issue, including Switzerland, "which never even had a colony," said McNaught. But not the UK, which according to him remains wedded to a system created at the beginning of the 19th century. And at the start of an election year in the UK, none of the main parties sees the issue as a priority. "But times have changed, society has changed," he added. spe/jwp/jj/rlp Senegalese security forces fired tear gas at protesters in the capital Friday as mounting anger over the postponement of a presidential election claimed a first death. A student was killed in the northern town of Saint-Louis, according to associates of the man, as protests spread around the West African country. Police fired tear gas to stop demonstrators getting to the Place de la Nation in central Dakar, where a rally had been planned. Hundreds of demonstrators threw stones at police and set fire to tyres. Anger has mounted since President Macky Sall postponed a presidential election scheduled February 25 until December. "The situation is deplorable. We came to pray and we got gassed. It's intolerable," Thierno Alassane Sall, one of the 20 candidates who had been due to vie for the presidency, told AFP. Clashes spread to other areas of the capital, closing main roads, rail lines and main markets. Demonstrations also took place in other towns, according to social network reports. The death of the student in Saint-Louis was confirmed to AFP by a local hospital source speaking on condition of anonymity and an official at the university the student attended. Police also dispersed a protest by about 200 people in Nioro du Rip, some 250 kilometres (150 miles) east of Dakar, an AFP reporter saw. Authorities have not given a toll for the week of protests. - Unprecedented move- Sall said he postponed the election because of a dispute between parliament and the Constitutional Council over potential candidates who were not allowed to stand. Sall said in July he would not stand again and has repeated that commitment several times. But opponents have accused him of a "constitutional coup" by delaying a new vote and keeping himself in power. The postponement has been criticised by the United States and European Union. Senegal's parliament backed the move after security forces stormed the chamber and removed some opposition deputies. The crisis has called into question the West African country's reputation for democratic stability in a region beset by military coups. Protests usually require authorisation and rights advocates say authorities have routinely banned opposition demonstrations. Since 2021, dozens of people have been killed and hundreds arrested during unrest in the country. "Senegalese must show their anger, and not just on social media," said the candidate Thierno Alassane Sall, who is no relation to the president. Teachers were urged to walk out by education unions within the civil society platform Aar Sunu Election (Let's Protect Our Election). At Blaise Diagne high school in Dakar, hundreds of pupils walked out of lessons with their teacher. History and geography teacher Assane Sene said it was just the start of the battle. "If the government is stubborn, we will have to try different approaches." At the Masjidounnour mosque in Dakar, 37-year-old Amadou Sy told AFP: "The message hasn't got through enough. But the situation in the country is deplorable, nobody's happy." The vote by MPs to delay the election paves the way for President Sall -- whose second term expires in early April -- to remain in office until his successor is installed, probably in 2025. A new date for the presidential election has been set for December 15. The opposition has condemned Sall's move as a "constitutional coup". On Friday, 14 opposition candidates lodged an appeal against the move with the Supreme Court. But Sall is showing no signs of backing down, said Sidy Diop, deputy editor of Le Soleil daily. However, he added that the head of state is "in a very bad position". If civil society and the opposition "manage to impose a balance of power unfavourable to the government and rally the international community, the president may then back down", he added. International pressure may also have an impact, according to Alassane Beye, a lecturer-researcher at the University of Saint-Louis. bur-amt/tw/giv The White House launched a fierce pushback Friday against a brutal special counsel report portraying Joe Biden as elderly and forgetful, describing it as a political hit-job on the president in an election year. US Vice President Kamala Harris called the stinging report "politically motivated" while White House spokesman Ian Sams branded it "gratuitous and inappropriate" as they sought to call its impartiality into question. Biden refused to answer questions on the report as he hosted German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in the Oval Office for talks on Ukraine Friday, but the night before he responded furiously to the report's findings. The investigation cleared the 81-year-old Democrat of illegally retaining classified documents in his home and garage -- but damningly branded him as a "well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory." Biden's supporters and aides rushed to defend him on Friday on an issue he's long been vulnerable on as he bids for reelection in November, most likely against Republican Donald Trump. "The way that the president's demeanor in that report was characterized could not be more wrong on the facts and (was) clearly politically motivated," Harris said when asked about the report. In a rambling address Friday to a National Rifle Association event, the 77-year-old Trump said of Biden's mental state: "I don't think he knows he's alive." - 'Gratuitous and inappropriate' - With questions swirling about Biden's mental acuity, the spotlight is also on Harris as she would be first in line to succeed as president should he resign or be incapacitated. Both Biden and Harris are suffering from low approval ratings as they campaign for another four years in the White House. The White House strategy appeared to be to start directly targeting special counsel Robert Hur, a Republican who was appointed by then-president Trump to be US attorney for the District of Maryland in 2017. But it was Biden's own attorney general Merrick Garland who named Hur as special counsel in the documents case. Democratic Senator John Fetterman, who won a high-profile victory in the key swing state of Pennsylvania in the 2022 midterms, nevertheless said Hur had an agenda as a "Trump appointee." "It was just a smear and cheap shot," he said of the report. Facing a barrage of questions from reporters, Sams, spokesman for the White House Counsel's Office, said that the report contained "gratuitous and inappropriate criticisms." He stopped short of saying Hur was partisan but suggested the investigator felt under pressure to "go beyond his remit" because of the polarized US political scene. "We're in a very pressurized political environment. And when you are the first special counsel in history not to indict anybody, there is pressure to criticize," he said. - 'Angry' - Other allies also rushed to defend the president. Biden's Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said the criticisms of Biden as old and feeble-minded did not "live in reality." Describing him as a "mentor," she added: "No one in this building would say that what we saw in this report about his memory." Republicans have called on Biden to resign. Trump, who faces criminal charges over his retention of classified documents and then refusal to cooperate with investigators, has accused the Department of Justice of double standards. Biden gave his own furious response from the White House on Thursday night, particularly lambasting the special counsel for claiming that he was unable to remember when his son Beau had died. "To suggest that he couldn't remember when his son died is really out of bounds," added Sams. But the president added to his woes by mixing up the presidents of Egypt and Mexico, while speaking sharply to reporters who challenged him about the report. Democratic congressman Adam Smith admitted that Biden's remarks "didn't go well" because he was "angry," suggesting that his campaign must do better to get its election message across. dk/gw/acb The world will little note nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. Photo: Emilio Madrid Theres a classic gag where a character gets his pants pulled down to reveal his heart-patterned boxer shorts. Its the kind of vaudevillian punch line you rarely see anymore outside of comic strips like Garfield. But midway through Oh, Mary!, as Mary Todd Lincoln climbs onto a desk in the Oval Office in a fit of passion and fury, flinging her hoop skirt up at the audience, there they are: white and red and, no matter how sophisticated you think you are, likely to rip a belly laugh out of you. The moment is typical of the berserk approach of Cole Escola, who has made their name in alt-comedy and cabaret acts with a distinctive concoction of diva worship, queer aesthetics, and scatology but is only now making their Off Broadway debut. I first encountered Escolas work by way of their YouTube impressions of Bernadette Peters (when her accountant asks about charitable donations, Escolas Bernadette blithely tells him, I gave all my earnings to Elaine Paige). But if youre already an Escola fan the type is, generally, queer coastal medicated comedy snob youre probably also familiar with their maniacal twinks on Difficult People and Search Party or their parodies of true crime and western TV kitsch like Little House on the Prairie. Escola tends to pop up on the margins of other peoples screen projects or in smaller, low-budget work. In Oh, Mary!, however, they have constructed a star vehicle for themselves, and its a work of deranged beauty: a version of Mary Todd Lincoln told (as the press release teases it) through the lens of an idiot, played with all the verve and severity of Bette Davis on bath salts. Expect only a glancing resemblance to historical accuracy. Elsewhere, Mary is usually depicted as a nagging mourner for her lost children, who came from a rich Kentucky family and who, debatably, lived with mental illness. This Mary is a gremlinlike former cabaret star with no interest in her children, who married Abe Lincoln (Fire Islands and Here Lies Loves Conrad Ricamora) when he was young and confused. See, this Lincoln is pretty definitely into men (hey, thats also debatable), though he prays to God to repress it while getting a blow job from his assistant. In Oh, Mary!, with Abe tied up in the Civil War with the South ( of what? is her recurring refrain), Mary storms around the White House looking for ways to score booze and entertain herself. She torments her chaperone, Louise (Bianca Leigh, prim as a Pick-a-Little lady in The Music Man), drinks paint thinner, has her stomach pumped so she vomits up the paint thinner, and then drinks the vomit. With Abes forcible encouragement, she eventually agrees to take lessons so she can become an actress in the legitimate theater, the words said with parodic awe. The meta joke within the conceit is that Escola, in ascending to an Off Broadway stage, is doing something a little like Mary is, though they too refuse to stay legit for long. Cabaret, Mary insists to Abe, is a world-class art form: People traveled the world over for my short legs and long medleys! Escola has written scenes that resemble hoary old melodrama and then punctured them with bursts of broad, filthy comedy. They are climbing the ladder built by Mike & Carlee Productions the power-broker producers who have propelled a number of comedians, including Alex Edelman and Kate Berlant, to prestigious theatrical acclaim but they havent buttoned up this material for a wider audience or pretended to rise above it. And they really commit to a gag. Escola is a world-class mugger, able to time a double take with nanosecond precision, telegraphing that a punch line may be coming and therefore delivering it with twice the force you expect. When Marys acting teacher, played by James Scully in Fiyero-style pants, walks onstage for the first time to give her lessons in Shakespeare, Mary sees him and detonates a drawn-out fuuuck at his beauty. Sam Pinkleton, a director with a background in choreography (he did the movement for Here We Are), keeps it all flowing fast enough for this souffle to stay inflated. Oh, Mary! is 80 minutes long, and anything more might start to wear on the audience. As nonsensical as the plot developments become and youre in for some real nonsense involving the production of Our American Cousin at Fords Theatre nobody turns sour with disdain, nobody looks down at their character. Ricamora gives Abe some genuine stormy angst such that you forget hes not tall enough for the part (thats part of the gag too, perhaps), and Leigh and Scully find a rhythm between playing foils to Marys shenanigans and adding some weirdness of their own. Louise, we quickly learn, has a secret affection for dropping ice cream on her nether regions. But of course. Escola might have intended to write this play for themselves, yet by the second third of Oh, Mary!, I started to wonder if Mary was being shunted to the side. The First Lady, with as much warmth as Escola invests in her, is still a battering ram of a character, slamming every scene shes in toward a familiar shape (shes going to do something crazy!), whereas the rest of the ensemble can be a little more nuanced. The play manages to sneak in a reveal and a backstory, the likes of which are both obvious and too delightful to spoil, that gives Scully and Ricamora some surprisingly moving emotional terrain. (It also occasions a set change to a saloon constructed by the design team Dots with a sort of loving reverence toward the art style of community theater.) Should the play have taken the advice of Marys acting teacher and relegated her to shudder a character part? Have no fear: Escola and Mary are not to be upstaged. After a delicious third-act breakdown, Mary makes it clear shes the undisputed star of this show, and Oh, Mary! ends by combusting into, yes, glorious cabaret. We finally witness some of her legendary madcap medleys in a sequence that approximates the dynamics of Roses Turn as told by an idiot, full of sound (the melodies chosen are not Sondheim) and fury. Escola tears down the facade of legitimate theater to reveal that its all greasepaint underneath, or perhaps elevates it to the level of pure bedazzled sensation. Im not really sure at this point. I was too busy laughing. Oh, Mary! is at the Lucille Lortel Theatre through May 5. From Netflixs American Nightmare to HBOs Last Call, a new crop of true-crime docuseries turns the typical explanation for law-enforcement failure on its head. Photo: Netflix The most depressing line in Netflixs latest true-crime docuseries hit, American Nightmare, comes in the last of its three parts. All I wanted this whole time was someone in law enforcement I could call a hero, says Denise Huskins, a kidnapping victim and one of the series central figures. The doc does find that person: Misty Carausu, whom it presents as the sole police officer responsible for identifying Huskinss kidnapper and rapist. Whats striking about American Nightmare, though, is not that it finds a cop it can call heroic, but that Carausu is a lone voice against a tidal wave of her colleagues disinterest, bias, incompetence, and lack of professionalism. Unlike the default mode of true-crime docuseries from the past several years and decades of ongoing linear shows like Cops and The First 48 before them American Nightmare is uninterested in presenting investigators as well-intentioned hard workers stumped by a mastermind. Its a document of police indifference in which the typical explanation for law-enforcement failure has been turned on its head: not a few bad apples, but a dismal search for a single good one. Over the past several months, a small crop of true-crime docuseries making similar arguments has appeared. On HBO, Last Call adapted Elon Greens book about the murders of several gay men in New York in the early 90s, crimes that went unsolved for years as police failed to adequately investigate violence against gay people. Telemarketers followed the Fraternal Order of Polices involvement in illegal telemarketing schemes. Murder in Boston chronicled the widespread harassment of Black men in Boston following Carol Stuarts murder in 1989. Hulus Never Let Him Go, a four-part ABC Newsproduced documentary, related the death of Scott Johnson, who was found at the bottom of an Australian cliff in the 1980s. All ask the same questions: What if police are not the best narrators of crime? What if theres no unusual, individually malicious reason for why some victims are ignored and some crimes barely investigated? What if its all widespread institutional bias? Crime and true-crime stories that center police perspectives tend to follow a few immensely familiar repeating arcs. Investigators begin working a case, identifying leads and carefully considering evidence. They push people in interrogations, often following gut impressions of a suspect before finding the evidence to back up their suspicions. Police voices are dominant, authoritative storytellers; either they speak directly to the camera and describe their own memories and actions, or their actions and the evidence they find are presented as neutral and objective. This is visible in recent Netflix series like Night Stalker: Hunt for a Killer and Crime Scene: The Texas Killing Fields, but its even more widely codified in the early true-crime formats of network TV and basic cable. Shows like The First 48 take the point of view of police, who appear as talking heads and describe their thought processes as they approach a crime scene. Americas Most Wanted, which returned to Fox in January after several cycles of cancellations and revivals, begins with host John Walsh describing the way the show partners with law enforcement, accompanied by footage of Walsh and others watching police officers barge into buildings and make arrests. Stumbling blocks often appear trails go cold, the facts dont add up, some crucial piece of evidence is missing but the narrative is generous toward law enforcements intention and skill. As if in response, the anti-copaganda genre is slowly building its own language of repeating shapes and structures. American Nightmare demonstrates several of the most common elements, beginning with a police-presented narrative told as a neutral description of events which the series then reveals to be just one incomplete perspective on the story. Here is Aaron Quinn, who called police one morning to explain that his girlfriend, Denise Huskins, had been abducted several hours earlier. As Quinn tells his story, Vallejo Police Department detective Mat Mustard becomes suspicious: Why didnt he call them sooner? Why are the details of the kidnapping (swim goggles, wetsuits) so strange? Surely Quinn is faking his involvement in Denises disappearance. But Quinn refuses to budge during interrogation. Then comes the first turn. When a journalist receives a proof-of-life call from Huskins, police decide it sounds too casual, and, actually, Huskins and Quinn mustve made the whole thing up. American Nightmare proceeds as if from the perspective of the police, presenting evidence before cutting to talking-head interviews with lawyers and a journalist covering the case who describes how the polices thinking evolved over the next few days. Simultaneously, the doc incorporates present-day footage of Quinn, so that when the police narrative begins to turn toward him as a suspect, Quinns own voice describes his increasing desperation. Huskinss captor eventually releases her and she returns home without intervention from law enforcement. Footage from a police press conference shows the Vallejo PD scolding both Huskins and Quinn for pulling a prank on the cops. The statement that Mr. Quinn provided was such an incredible story, we initially had a hard time believing it, and upon further investigation, we were not able to substantiate any of the things he was saying, police lieutenant Kenny Park says into a microphone. I can go one step further to say this, he continues. Mr. Quinn and Ms. Huskins have plundered valuable resources away from our community. The series intercuts this footage with shots of Quinn in the present day, aghast, clutching his head in disbelief and anger. Quinn, the docuseries suggests, is obviously not involved in a crime, even though police are implicating him. At this point, the police version of the story and Quinns version feel like equally weighted possibilities, with little clarity about who is telling the truth. American Nightmare then turns its attention to a cultural touchpoint beyond just this case. The recent release of the film Gone Girl, the docuseries suggests, has completely stymied investigators, who are familiar with the movie and decide Huskins must have been inspired to stage her own kidnapping. At no point do police consider that they are the ones largely inspired by the recent movie. That explanation bleeds into national media coverage, with clips from cable news insisting Huskins is a real-life gone girl. Only then does American Nightmare add a third POV from Huskins herself, whose story entirely matches Quinns version of events. The complete confidence of those police press conferences cannot just be an error, the series implies. Its gross disregard. This shift from a police version of events into a broader cultural context is also deployed by Murder in Boston and Never Let Him Go. Something that looks and feels like a neutral narrative, presented from the perspective of police investigators, creates one plausible version of events: For Murder in Boston, its the idea that the perpetrator, described by the victims husband, must be a Black man; in Never Let Him Go, the question is whether a murder occurred at all or if the victims death was accidental. In both cases, the victims or their families admit their growing suspicion that law enforcement is mishandling the case, and these scenes are often shown in counterpoint, a running commentary on the version given by police. Murder in Boston then moves into context about racism and segregation in Boston, much as Never Let Him Go lingers on long-standing homophobia in Australia. Last Call provides an astonishing amount of research on anti-gay rhetoric and the backgrounds of each victim. Then, just as American Nightmare in episode two, alternative explanations begin to emerge. What if the husband in Boston was lying, but the police never considered that? What if police are overlooking related patterns of violence in Sydney? What if the Last Call murders were the work of a serial killer? What if Denise Huskins was telling the truth all along? At first, that scene where Huskins describes how desperately she wanted a hero feels like an attempt to soften the series depiction of law enforcements apathy and incompetence. Most of these series have similar moments: In Last Call, a task force across New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania eventually investigates these crimes as a whole and uncovers the perpetrator. In Murder in Boston, an infuriatingly slow shift toward investigating Stuarts husband eventually clicks into place; he dies by suicide once suspicion turns to him. In American Nightmare, Misty Carausu finds an unrelated strand of blonde hair at a crime scene 30 miles away weeks after Huskinss abduction, and only her determination to find the victim it belongs to leads her back to Huskins. But the final beats of these series are never just about celebrating the few voices who stood against the larger culture. They focus on the cost to everyone involved and the ongoing ramifications. American Nightmares are especially infuriating: The internal culture of the Vallejo police department is unchanged, as demonstrated by a series of images detailing the cases effect on the department. None of the officers involved in Aaron and Denises case were disciplined, one reads. Lead detective Mat Mustard was awarded officer for the year for 2015. This move toward emphasizing broader social context becomes its own form of indictment. It allows these series to suggest that the specific oversights and errors made in these cases are the results of a larger cultural problem within police institutions, not just human error or a few cops who are bad at their jobs. Individually, each of these series suggests that police are not effective at investigating crimes among certain marginalized communities or crimes with white male perpetrators. Collectively, they suggest that police narratives should always be met with skepticism. And they offer an intriguing future for true-crime TV. Audiences have grown used to the trope of a person sitting down in the interview chair, getting their mics adjusted before they speak to the camera. Theyre familiar with the onscreen timeline, with the establishing-shot drone footage. These anti-copaganda series may well become the foothold for a new device: a police interview that cuts to footage of a victim watching that same interview, reacting with fury. Correction: A previous version of this story incorrectly stated how the Last Call killer was caught. Downtown parking Staff and the City Council are looking at downtown parking issues. Id like to add a perspective from a senior citizens point of view. We have a group of friends (six total, one couple from Kernersville) who go out to eat dinner every two to three weeks at different restaurants. One area weve discussed is downtown, as it seems to have a good variety of places where we like to eat. One of the main reasons we avoid this area is the parking in relation to having to walk long distances to and from the restaurant. The other is security, which is questionable, at best, for seniors. Downtown seems to try to attract a younger patronage, but not so much for seniors. Its harder for seniors to walk long distances, say, from a parking garage or a surface lot, to a place to eat downtown and then theres the security issue, whether real or perceived. If we dont feel safe, we dont go to those areas. If you are looking for a specific restaurant, you must try to find a space or parking garage (three spaces, and carpooling is not an option) closest to that restaurant. Then theres the hike to get there and back to the car. This is not a complaint, but just a perspective. Before I retired, I worked downtown and frequently had lunch downtown and I miss not going to some of these restaurants. Don Kimbro Greensboro Grand Old PR The Republican Party was termed the Grand Old Party during the 1870s for its preservation of the Union. I posit that the current Grand Old Party endeavors to do the opposite. Instead of a policy of reunification and forgiveness exemplified in the leadership of President Lincoln, most Republicans today bow to the bullying of the MAGA-driven, anti-constitutional actions of Donald Trump. They fearfully abide by the baseless utterances of Marjorie Taylor Greene and reject the patriotic efforts of Liz Cheney. Republicans defy logic by espousing that Trump won the last presidential election and attesting to the peaceful demonstration held on Jan. 6, 2021. These actions are more in line with a public relations firm than a political party. There has been little to no substantive GOP legislation enacted since Sen. Mitch McConnell stated it was his goal to ensure that Barack Obama would be a one-term president. The Senate became known as the place where bipartisan legislation went to die. Republicans killed or underfunded bills that would have provided the average American citizen relief with medical, educational and voting-rights advancements. MAGA platforms spread blatant lies to a gullible audience that wanted a scapegoat for the perceived problems. The agenda: Get Trump to/back to the White House. That is the sole purpose of todays Republican Party. Political parties came into existence for better representation of their constituents. Public relations firms exist to promote a desired image, regardless of truth or fact. Putin has TASS. Xi has China Central Television. Trump has Fox. None are truthful. John Dickey Greensboro Do-nothing Congress Most state and federal employees have their work performance assessed once or twice a year, and continued employment, pay changes and plans for improvement are based on this. If any of us employed by the state of North Carolina performed as poorly as elected members of the U.S. House of Representatives over the past four years, we would all be fired. As citizens and, ultimately their employers, we can do this by voting them out in the upcoming election if their voting records document not doing an honest days work. They should do more than just voting no without offering alternative and realistic solutions to all the problems we share. They have not earned their substantial salaries, great health care and excellent retirement benefits after being unable to pass any significant legislation in the last two terms. Robert Doolittle Greensboro Heres where to cut We continue to hear about the controversy about proposed academic cuts at UNCG. We are told by the chancellor that these cuts are necessary to sustain the future of the University. I agree that cuts are needed. However, as always, these cuts are aimed in the wrong direction. Educational administrative costs continue to escalate at an uncontrollable pace. Where are the studies and assessments of these costs? Within the maze and layers of associates and assistants to upper-level, highly paid administrators, surely plenty of cuts can be found. Why should faculty and academics be required to take the full burden of these cuts? The first assessment of administrative costs should start at the top. Why should tax and foundation money pay for a $1.6 million home for the chancellor? Why should tax money pay the electricity, phone, water and cable bills for him? Why should he receive full housekeeper and yard maintenance services? One would think that, with nearly one-half million dollars in annual salary and a generous expense account, the chancellor could afford to pay for these services. The chancellor and other administrators ask faculty and academics to sacrifice for the future of the university. But what are they willing to offer for the future of UNCG? Gene Lemons Greensboro Italy marks Giorno del Ricordo on 10 February. Italy on Saturday will commemorate the victims of the Foibe mass killings in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Istria and Dalmatia by Tito's partisans, both during and after world war two. The massacres were committed mainly against the local ethnic Italian population by Yugoslav communists who occupied the Istrian peninsula during the last two years of the war. In a post on social media on Friday, Italys president Sergio Mattarella described the foibe killings and exodus as a tragedy, which cannot be forgotten. To mark the solemn occasion, the facade of the government buildings at Palazzo Chigi in Rome will be illuminated with the colours of the To mark the solemn occasion, the facade of the government buildings at Palazzo Chigi in Rome will be illuminated with the colours of the Italian flag , with the words "Io Ricordo" (I Remember), in addition to several Italian landmarks including the Colosseum. This years Giorno del Ricordo takes place following the governments recent announcement that a museum to commemorate the victims of the Foibe mass killings is to be established in Rome. In 2022 Mattarella said the Giorno del Ricordo calls for the "recollection and solidarity with the relatives and descendants of those who were cruelly killed and thrown into the Foibe, of the Italians torn from their homes and forced into exodus, of all those on the eastern border who had to pay the highest human costs to the horrors of the second world war and its prolonging of the persecution, violent nationalism, oppressive totalitarianism." The exact number of victims is unknown but there may have been up to 15,000 killed, with many of them tortured, shot or pushed to their deaths into the deep, narrow carsic sinkholes or chasms known as foibe. The killings occurred in 1943 and again in the weeks before and after the end of the war in 1945. The Giorno del Ricordo commemorates the victims of the ethnic cleansing as well as the exodus of Italians who left their homes in Dalmatia and Istria in the years after 1943. Four years ago Mattarella joined Slovenian president Borut Pahor in laying a wreath at a Foibe memorial in Basovizza near the north Italian city of Trieste. Known in English as the 'National Memorial Day of the Exiles and Foibe', the annual remembrance day was declared in 2004 by then Italian president Carlo Azeglio Ciampi. In 2007 Ciampi's successor, President Giorgio Napolitano, referred to the Foibe as "one of the barbarities of the past century." Linda Wenhold was blown away by the Patriot Academys classes, which tap into a growing fear among some evangelical Christians that their faith and its rightful place at the center of American culture and government were under siege. If ever there was a need for the legendary Murdoch muscle, it would be in the battle between the worlds media organisations and the generative AI giants, who are scraping editorial content to feed into their large language machines. And for the most part, AI hasnt been paying for it. News Corp chief executive Robert Thomson prefers negotiation with the AI giants, rather than litigation. Credit: Getty It is a beat-them-or-join-them moment for the media companies, whose business models will be undermined if AI can use their content unchecked. So when News Corp chief executive Robert Thomson declared this week that the Murdoch media empire was in advanced stage discussions with AI firms, the industry is seriously invested in understanding what sort of deal has been struck. Advertisement Review Eating outVictoria Park Bless the noodle whisperers: This Perth restaurant is one of the planets few serving bamboo pole noods Come to Yip for outstanding handmade southern Chinese noodles: stay for outstanding roast meats, dumplings and a fiery noodle soup to be reckoned with. Max Veenhuyzen February 9, 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 1 / 8 A thrilling suburban restaurant keeping one of the worlds rarest handmade noodles alive. Duncan Wright 2 / 8 Erich Wong is a Perth noodle whisperer. Duncan Wright 3 / 8 The stars of the Yip menu are the house-made thin noodles. Duncan Wright 4 / 8 Great food at Yip. Duncan Wright 5 / 8 A base serve of noodles gets you change out a tenner. Duncan Wright 6 / 8 Hand-made noods. Duncan Wright 7 / 8 Creating magic. Duncan Wright 8 / 8 Inside the hidden gem. Duncan Wright Previous Slide Next Slide Good Food hat 15 / 20 How we score Chinese$$$ Blessed are the noodle whisperers and the joy that they bring to our lives. In January, I had the fortune of meeting two emerging flour power Samaritans. Their names were Leila Norris and Alice Norris, co-creators of ramen soyannaise: a delicious, resourceful dish starring instant noodles slicked with Kewpie mayo and soya sauce that the teenage duo whipped up on a camp stove using shelf-stable ingredients. While Im sure the Norris sisters would gladly share their recipe with me, Im okay with soyannaise remaining a secret. After all, whats the fun in knowing how a magician performs their magic? Advertisement Yip is a restaurant built for efficiency. Duncan Wright Erich Wong is another Perth noodle whisperer and is (sorry Leila, sorry Alice) a little better known in dining circles. You might remember Wong from Noodle Forum, a squeezy CBD noodle bar that the (now) 66-year-old chef opened in 2014. Noodle Forum was a smash, thanks largely to a strategically placed kitchen window that let those in the queue there was always a queue watch as Wong seesawed on a bamboo pole to make the toothsome, increasingly rare southern Chinese noodle, zu sheng mian. (According to Wong there are very few shops on the planet making noodles this way: a claim that Google searches in both English and Chinese seem to verify.) After quietly slipping off the handmade noodle radar, he resurfaced in October when Wong, wife Chee Ling Low and son Everson rebooted a former lending agents office in East Vic Park into Yip: a fresh-faced 60-seat restaurant named for Wongs father and bamboo noodle-making teacher, Yip Kee. Its easy to miss Yips understated shopfront among the grey and mushroom jumble of Albany Highway. Thankfully the throng of eaters queuing on weekends is an excellent beacon for first timers to look for. While regulars will arrive 15 minutes before opening to maximise their chances of sitting down right away, its worth preparing yourself for some sort of wait. It might be short. It might be long. But it will be worth it. Advertisement Wong absolutely sends it when it comes to his noods. Erich Wong in his noodle restaurant Yip. Duncan Wright The stars of the Yip menu are the house-made thin noodles (maybe you know it as the spaghettini-esque wonton mee?) and their fat and crinkly thick counterpart, mee pok. Both are southern Chinese in origin and made with nowt but flour, eggs, salt and the proverbial elbow grease of a skilled artisan bounding up and down on a bamboo pole to work the flours gluten and gradually develop the spring and tensile strength in the dough. Gosh these are a great time. If youre looking for an example of what commitment to craft and half-a-century of muscle memory tastes like, go directly to Yip. Do not pass go. Do not collect $200. You wont need it. A base serve of noodles gets you change out a tenner, plus a choice of enjoying your noods dry or in a soup. Advertisement For those going dry, I dig the way the springy mee pok takes to the caramelly, Hong Kong-style dark sauce. Just as people reach for spaghetti when making aglio eolio, marinara and other oil-based pastas, those spindly thin noodles work best with the Kuala Lumpur-influenced light option: a lush one-two of rendered pork fat and light soya sauce. White pepper shakers on the table let you tune spice levels. I cant remember the last time I had my mind blown by a dish with a per-unit cost of less than $1.50 (you get six dumplings for $7.80) in Perth. Maybe its not a 41-degree day like today and youre in the mood for soup? The house broth is all slow-simmered pork and chicken comfort and zero dry-mouth that comes from an overreliance on MSG. An earthy, prawny baseline underpins the spicy, coconutty laksa: if you can, spring the extra dollars for the main-sized Malaysian curry laksa bowl which features jangly house-made Hokkien egg noodles, thin bee hoon rice noodles (not house-made), chicken, prawn and fish cake. A new challenger has entered the great-laksas-of-Perth arena. Impressively, benchmark noods arent the only dish that Wong can stake a bona fide best-in-breed claim on. The buttery char siu one of 13 meats you can beef up your noodles with made with pork belly and lacquered with a heroic amount of Shaoxing wine, for one, is a compelling reason to visit. Ditto the compact, ultra-juicy roast pork belly and its alternating layers of blistered skin, fat and meat that underscore why the cuts poetic Southern Chinese street name is five-flower meat. What is tonkatsu? The Japanese soul food at the heart of this new Victoria Park restaurant Advertisement Finally, there are the dumplings. In yet another example of Yips love of binary choices, the menu features both comet-like wontons and torpedo-shaped shui jiao dumplings. Theyre available either lolling in soup which emphasises their suppleness or deep-fried, so the dumplings delicate skin metamorphises, its golden, barely-there skin disintegrating in the mouth like a communion wafer. I cant remember the last time I had my mind blown by a dish with a per-unit cost of less than $1.50 (you get six dumplings for $7.80) in Perth: you? At this price point, there are, understandably, some concessions with the dining experience. Yip is a restaurant built for efficiency and guests help themselves to chopsticks, cups of water, napkins and side bowls from a communal bench. There are also QR ordering codes on tables, although youre also free to buy your food from a real-life human at the counter. (Other real-life humans are also stationed throughout the space, running dishes, checking in on guests and generally practising the very human art of hospitality). It must be said that theres a ubiquitous, mall-like quality to the room, but personal flourishes such as murals and framed letters from guests ensure Yip doesnt feel like some ChatGPT restaurant design experiment gone awry. Wong says there are very few places making noodles this way. Duncan Wright Advertisement The biggest of these flourishes is unquestionably Wong himself. A natural showman, he times his bamboo-bouncing routine in Yips air-conditioned custom-built noodle room for midday and at the start of dinner: peak times for the dining room. When hes not pressing sheets of dough, hes pressing the flesh in the restaurant, sweet-talking tables, greeting guests and sharing cooking tips with those that ask. He doesnt reveal everything, of course, but just enough to let guests even if just for a moment behind the curtain. (His roast meats, for instance, arent cooked in a space-age duck oven, but in a domestic turbo broiler, a cooking appliance commonplace in Asian households.) After all, whats the fun in knowing how a magician performs their magic? The low-down Vibe: A thrilling suburban restaurant keeping one of the worlds rarest handmade noodles alive. Go-to dish: Thin noodles in pork oil; Malaysian curry laksa. Drinks: Soft drinks, tea and hot and chilled Malaysian and Singaporean kopitiam drinks including teh tarik, kopi and cham (a mix of teh tarik and kopi). The bistro was empty except for Michael and two detectives from the drug squad. Her life would never be the same. Michael and his friends were the only three people in the room. Shane and Karen were detectives in the drug squad, so I jokingly asked: Have you got a big drug deal going down, should we be worried? Shane said, Cate, were actually not here to socialise, weve got something important to tell you and I should warn you its going to shock you. Three years ago, we recruited your mate here hes been working undercover for the Victoria Police. We recruited him to infiltrate and smash Australias biggest amphetamine gang, and hes been compromised. This means your lives are in danger. Before Id finished my glass of wine, my life had been reduced to a code name. Michael was Witness E2/92 working for Operation Phalanx, a drug squad investigation that resulted in the arrest of 135 suspects, the discovery of $371,000 in cash and $415,000 in counterfeit United States currency. Police seized farms, cars, guns and eight tonnes of chemicals capable of producing amphetamines then valued at more than $200 million (now more than $600 million). Michael had started by offering the boss of the syndicate, former bikie chief Mr Smith, financial advice (they met in heavy gambling schools), and ended as an insider, providing police-supplied chemicals to the drug ring in a sophisticated sting operation. Cate didnt have the remotest idea of her husbands double life. He was getting home in the early hours, which she put down to his gambling, employed bikie-looking builders to renovate their house (they were very good), and became obsessed with a movie about an undercover cop infiltrating a bikie group. (Smith came to their home and Cate found him more engaging than when the cops turned up for a barbecue.) Witness protection is the last resort for those facing monster jail sentences or on a hit list. It was not meant for school teachers from middle Melbourne. In The Whistleblowers Wife, she recalls that at the pub, Karen was making an attempt to comfort me. Youll all be set up in another country and witness protection will look after you. Youll have to give notice at work as soon as possible. I couldnt believe what she was saying. Why would I want to go and live in another country and what the hell is witness protection? Cate was right. Witness protection is the last resort for those facing monster jail sentences or on a hit list. It was not meant for school teachers from middle Melbourne. A protected witness must abide by the rules. You must give up your friends, extended family, job, house and name. Your past is expunged. Cate now lives in Melbourne. Few know of her secret life. Credit: Eddie Jim I was not going to play that game. They fabricated a story that Michael had received a massive job offer in Britain and didnt tell their sons the truth. Within weeks, they were gone. Without visas, they lived as nomads driving through European countries. It was a nightmare. The boys hated it. Eventually, they moved into a rented house in a village near Manchester, but their hopes of a new life were soon shattered. During the 1996-97 summer break, someone broke into the electronically protected drug squad office in the St Kilda Road police complex. The thieves ignored hundreds of files stacked neatly in three grey bookcases in the locked evidence room. They grabbed the blue binders containing more than 100 statements E2/92 had made on the Smith gang. They also stole receipts and bills that gave away the familys new address. It was 3am on a bleak January morning in 1997 when the phone rang in the upstairs main bedroom. It was Superintendent Peter Halloran, in charge of witness protection. He said: You have to get out of the house immediately. You have been compromised. The family split up, finally moving to Malta. A taskforce investigated the break-in and interviewed 286 people. The final report identified 13 serving and former police as suspects. No charges were laid. While there is little doubt that the proceeds of the burglary have eventually been received by [Mr Smith] and that a significant sum of money was paid to individuals responsible insufficient evidence exists to either charge [Smith] or effectively identify the others involved, investigators found. Over Easter 2004, burglars using the same public holiday cover, broke into Michaels lawyers St Kilda Road office, not far from the drug squad. They hacked into his office computer and broke open a filing cabinet with legal documents. My immediate reaction was that someone was looking for something of a sensitive nature, his lawyer, Paul Duggan, told me. Michael flew back to Australia to testify at the committal hearing. He went to Southbank, with police protection, for coffee with his drug squad contacts. They were photographed by a private investigator, who followed the detectives from the St Kilda Road offices. Clearly, there was a leak. Police received credible information about a plot to record the movement of police and security vehicles, to establish the witnesss movements to court. Police grab a suspect in Operation Phalanx. Credit: Victoria Police. Two motorcycle pillion passengers armed with shotguns were to ride alongside the vehicle and shoot Michael, the method perfected by South American cocaine cartels. The threat was so credible Michael was the first witness allowed to testify via a video link from constantly changing locations in Victoria. He was grilled for weeks in the witness box but couldnt be shaken. Faced with Michaels testimony, Smith pleaded guilty and was sentenced to a minimum of four years. Michael effectively worked for the police for seven years without being paid. Fed up, Michael and Cate contacted me. They wanted to go public to pressure police to pay compensation. We flew into Melbourne, always under the protection of the police, because we had a meeting with a journalist. Michael was understandably anxious and jittery. Not only would he have felt vulnerable, but he was about to tell his story to the world and to me, she recalls. It made headlines and police decided to negotiate. Cate writes: The compensation amount offered was $500,000 but the cost of providing police support was taken out of this, so there wasnt much left. After five years on the run, they returned to Melbourne, but for another four years Michael was not allowed to return to his old work because of fears for his life. Loading Police learned little from Michaels case years later, they used the same tactic with lawyer turned informer Nicola Gobbo, promising her she would never be identified then turning her into a witness to provide evidence in court. The police were very good at making promises but not very good at keeping them. Michael had been promised that he would never have to give evidence against the people he was spying on but soon learned that this wasnt the case, Cate writes. Not only did the police receive information that [Smith] had become suspicious and talked about having Michael knocked, but a court decision also made it impossible for their promise to be kept. Washington: The US Supreme Court appears set to keep Donald Trump in the race for the 2024 election, warning that state-based attempts to disqualify him on the grounds he incited an insurrection could lead to daunting consequences. In a historic legal showdown that Trumps lawyers say could disenfranchise millions of Americans, the nations highest court heard oral arguments on Thursday (Friday AEDT) to determine if the former president should be removed from the ballot in Colorados Republican primary contest, which takes place next month. Demonstrators hold a banner outside of the US Supreme Court where the hearing was taking place. Credit: AP While the legal challenge relates specifically to that state, finding Trump ineligible would have sweeping national implications because many other states have also sought to disqualify him using the same argument: that Section 3 of the 14th Amendment bars those who have engaged in insurrection or rebellion from holding office. However, Trumps lawyer John Mitchell argued the former presidents actions surrounding the January 6 Capitol riots in 2021 which aimed to stop Joe Bidens election victory from being certified did not amount to anything that can plausibly be characterised as an insurrection. The World Customs Organization (WCO) under the auspices of the EU-WCO Programme for Harmonized System in Africa (HS-Africa Programme), funded by the European Union, held a national workshop on the modernization of the Customs Laboratory of Ghana Customs in Accra, Ghana from 23 to 26 January 2024. The Workshop was attended by 15 Customs Officers involved in Customs Laboratory and Harmonized System classification matters from Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA). During the opening of the workshop, Mr. Alhaji Seidu Iddrisu, GRA Commissioner of Customs, along with GRA top management representing operations, capacity building, and Customs Laboratory, thanked the European Union and the WCO for the continuous support and excellent partnership. They stressed the importance of this workshop in their efforts to modernize the Customs laboratory and align to international standards. In their remarks, they referred to the importance of a well performing Customs Laboratory for the correct collection of Customs duties and for the uniform classification of commodities in the national Customs tariff as well as for the protection of the society and environment. The possibility of becoming a WCO Regional Customs Laboratory is a vision that is envisaged and such activities were echoed as being key factors to achieving this goal. This workshop is part of an overall WCO support to assist GRA modernize its Customs laboratory, and follows a series of activities organized under the HS Africa Programme benefiting GRA Customs Laboratory team including involvement in study visits, and technical seminars and networks. A number of areas relating to Customs laboratories were discussed in detail. Participants were informed of the structure and functions of several WCO Regional Customs Laboratories. The possibility and requirements of becoming a regional Customs laboratory was also discussed in detail. The facilitator explained in detail the activities of the Customs Laboratory European Network (CLEN) and the possibilities that the instruments developed by CLEN might offer to the GRA. Discussions focused on the WCO Customs Laboratory Guide, sampling procedures, security and safety issues, as well as laboratory information management systems (LIMS). The workshop was also an opportunity for participants to deepen their knowledge of the relevant technical standards with regard to the infrastructure, instruments and staff of a Customs laboratory. The activity included a visit of the experts to the existing facilities of the Customs Laboratory of GRA. In his closing remarks, Mr. Erick Koko, Director of the Customs Laboratory, thanked the WCO and the European Union for the support and collaboration in this area of Customs work, and confirmed his Administrations interest in becoming part of the WCO Regional Customs Laboratories Programme. From 29 January to 1 February 2024, the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) hosted a national workshop on Customs laboratories with the aim of conducting a scoping exercise for setting up a national Customs laboratory. The workshop was delivered by the WCO within the framework of the EU-WCO Programme for the Harmonized System in Africa (HS-Africa Programme), funded by the European Union. The workshop was facilitated by a WCO recognized Customs chemist from the Spanish Customs Administration. In his opening remarks, Mr. CG Niangwan, Assistant Comptroller General of the NSC, confirmed the commitment of NCS in implementing a modern Customs laboratory as another step in the modernization of his Administration. He stressed the importance of Customs laboratories for the purposes of revenue collection, drug enforcement, protection of the society and the environment as well as trade facilitation. The discussions of the workshop varied from focusing on the WCO Customs laboratory Guide, sampling procedures, analysis of narcotics, security and safety issues, as well as laboratory information management systems (LIMS). It was highlighted that the establishment of a Customs laboratory in Nigeria would address key challenges in customs operations. The structure and the functioning of the Customs Laboratory European Network (CLEN) was discussed for a deeper understanding of the participants. The workshop also served as a forum for in depth discussions and knowledge exchange on a number of areas not limited to the WCO Regional Customs Laboratory, and of the possibilities that the instruments developed by CLEN might offer to the NCS. The expert visited several locations considered for setting up the future laboratory in Abuja to examine their suitability for that purpose. Moreso, the workshop was also an opportunity for participants to deepen their knowledge and underscore the need for relevant technical standards for a customs laboratory with regard to the infrastructure, equipment and staffing levels. The comprehensive insights from the discussions enabled an assessment for the way forward and concrete action for establishing a Customs laboratory network in NCS. In his closing remarks, Mr. I Alfa, Assistant Comptroller General of the NSC, thanked the WCO and the European Union for the support and collaboration in this area of Customs work, and expressed his Administrations interest in becoming part of the WCO Regional Customs Laboratories Programme. For more details, please contact hs@wcoomd.org. In a collaborative effort to bolster global environmental protection, the Basel Convention Environmental Network for Optimizing Regulatory Compliance on Illegal Traffic [in waste] (ENFORCE) and the partners from the Green Customs Initiative recently assembled at the World Customs Organization (WCO) headquarters. The meetings, held on 5 and 6 February and 7 and 8 February, respectively, align with the WCOs theme of the year: Customs Engaging Traditional and New Partners with Purpose." ENFORCE, operating through a network of experts, is committed to promoting compliance with the provisions of the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal (Basel Convention). The focus lies in preventing and combating illegal traffic in hazardous wastes and other wastes through the more effective implementation and enforcement of national laws. ENFORCE seeks to enhance cooperation, coordination, and capacity-building activities to tackle the challenges associated to illegal traffic. Since joining ENFORCE in 2020, the WCO has collaboratively undertaken numerous initiatives with fellow partners. These efforts have been dedicated to implementing a range of activities aimed at enhancing capacity-building for Customs administrations and reinforcing enforcement operations, exemplified by the successful Operation DEMETER series that focus on fighting waste trafficking. Launched in 2004, the Green Customs Initiative (GCI) brings together the Secretariats of trade-related MEAs, the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL), the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the WCO. The collective aim is to empower Customs and border control officers to monitor legal trade while detecting and preventing the illegal trade in environmentally sensitive commodities outlined in relevant MEAs and international conventions. This collaboration aims also to advance objectives related to greening the supply chain, and is marked by successful contributions of the Secretariats of the MEAs to the development of the Harmonized System (HS). Discussions during the meetings emphasized the importance of partnerships in capacity building and the development of tools to empower Customs officers and national environmental authorities to implement trade-related provisions of the Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs). These strategic initiatives aim to provide the knowledge and skills necessary for effectively addressing environmental crimes, ensuring that customs officers are well-equipped to identify and tackle illicit activities threatening the environment though joint capacity-building and enforcement activities. The meetings served as a platform for partners to reaffirm their commitment to support sustainable Customs practices. Embracing the WCOs theme of the year, participants explored ways to foster sustainable partnerships that transcend geographical and organizational boundaries. The convergence of the ENFORCE network and GCI Partners at the WCO headquarters reflects a collective dedication to combating environmental crimes and facilitating the legal trade of environmental commodities. During the GCI meeting, Mr. Pranab Kumar DAS, Director of Compliance and Facilitation Directorate at the WCO, stated, The meetings on the implementation of the MEAs held at the WCO this week mark a critical moment in our commitment to address environmental challenges through shared expertise and concerted action. The partnership between the ENFORCE network and the Green Customs Initiative exemplifies our dedication to enhancing global cooperation and building the capacity needed to effectively implement environmental legislation. By fostering sustainable partnerships and empowering Customs officers with the tools and knowledge required, we aim to strengthen our collective resolve in combating environmental crimes and ensuring the lawful trade of environmentally sensitive goods." From 30 January to 1st February 2024, the World Customs Organization (WCO) organized the 31st Global Meeting of the Regional Intelligence Liaison Offices (RILO) at its Headquarters in Brussels. RILO Heads from across the world gathered to discuss a wide range of topics including intelligence gathering, enforcement application management, and governance of the Global RILO Network. This three-day meeting, attended by representatives from all twelve RILOs, held significant importance as it provided the first opportunity, following the termination of the Customs Enforcement Networks Management Team Meeting in 2023, for the RILOs to address a broader agenda incorporating both RILO and CEN matters. In response to an evolving governance landscape, aligning with the broader efforts requested by WCO Members, the meeting was committed to a comprehensive review of the RILO Recommendation document, discussed the necessary amendments to the Global RILO Meeting terms of reference, and explored avenues for assessing RILO performance. In the realm of CEN matters, the meeting delved into application usage, advancements in CEN data visualization, evaluation of data quality initiatives under the WCO Charter of Data Quantity and Quality Enhancement in the CEN, and decided to launch a CEN Compendium showcasing interesting case studies based on CEN data to stimulate Members interest in data submission. For the first time, the matters related to the Cargo Targeting System (CTS), now managed by the WCO CEN Programme, were also discussed. The meeting examined the evaluation report of the impact of CTS and the National Customs Enforcement Network (nCEN), exploring ways how these tools can be made interoperable in view of strengthening Customs enforcement capabilities. Dedicated to the theme of 'Customs Engaging Traditional and New Partners with Purpose,' the meeting also heard from cooperating organizations like the Universal Postal Union (UPU), who explored potential avenues for enhanced collaboration and synergies. The 31st Global RILO Meeting underscored the commitment of Customs administrations worldwide to collaborate and share intelligence in order to more effectively address the scourge of illicit trade. By fostering dialogue and cooperation among Customs authorities, the meeting aimed to enhance the functioning of the global Customs Enforcement Network (CEN) and safeguard international trade. The Helena Public Schools Board of Trustees meeting is set for Tuesday, Feb. 13, where SMA Architecture and Design will present drafts of its facilities master plan and the budget consensus committee will present budget reduction ideas. The master plan, sometimes described as a "map" to guide the district, has been on the minds of the Helena community, district parents, administrators and teachers since the planning process began in 2022. The school board meeting will be 5:30-8:30 p.m. Feb. 13 at the district headquarters, 1325 Poplar St., Helena, in the Lincoln Center or it can be viewed via Zoom. The drafts will contain two schools of conversation on the consolidation list: Hawthorne and Broadwater. In May, a budget consensus committee was formed to allow parents, teachers, administrators and community members to have a voice in the process of creating budget reduction ideas for the board of trustees. Leading the group was Rob Watson, director of School Administrators of Montana, who was asked by Superintendent Rex Weltz to help the district form the committee. The committee was tasked with creating a priority list containing budget-reduction ideas for the board, according to Watson. The list will be used as a recommendation, not a definitive list, of cuts. At the beginning of the meetings a "grounding session" was used by Watson to allow members of the committee to think freely about the discussions. A grounding session is a series of questions that range from how you are feeling today, to what are some concerns someone may have? Concerns brought up at the Jan. 10 committee meeting by members in the circle included: the group may be running out of time, what decisions will be made, district wont make all of the right decisions, the unknowns about the budget and that deferred maintenance is so far behind. Tim Meldrum, a partner at SMA, talked about deferred maintenance at some of the meetings, saying it is a part of developing the master plan for the district. According to district officials, the most recent review from January 2022 said there is about $18.5 million in deferred maintenance at the elementary level. There is about $11.4 million at the middle school level and $28 million at the high school level. In total including all schools, joint factor facilities and general costs there is about $88.4 million in deferred maintenance costs in the district. During the meetings a list was compiled of ideas brought up by board members, community members, parents, administrators and teachers. The ideas were filtered through a ranking system ranging from a big impact to no impact that included value statements constructed by Watson. The lists were compiled from two groups, one focused on K-5 and the other 6-12 in Helena Public Schools. The first statement was agreed upon by the entire committee: student outcomes and achievement, or empower students with a dynamic and diverse education, foster the well-being and shared responsibility for lifelong success and achievement. The second was to provide all students a well-rounded education that meets or exceeds accreditation standards in well-maintained, safe facilities equipped with relevant technology, or programs and environment. Third, build trust and support for more funding by continuously adapting and maintaining a vibrant and well-connected community, or trust and engagement. Fourth, sustainability, or foster financial sustainability with a budget that is economically responsible, supported and informed by the needs and aspirations of our community. Lastly, recruit and retain the highest quality staff through recognition of accomplishments, quality training, robust support and market compensation, or staff. The K-5 list of ideas had more options than the other group because at the start of the discussions its group was much larger, according to Watson. This group came up with 24 ranked reduction ideas, while the middle and high school group had a total of 18 ranked ideas. There were seven for middle school and 11 for high school. Some of the ideas were not ranked because they would have zero impact on budget savings or they are already being implemented within the district. Ideas ranked had budget reduction values if they were implemented by the board of trustees and some have TBD, or to be determined, due to data not yet being compiled. Watson, with the help of financial administrative staff, compiled a budget shortfall during the committee gatherings to show possible outcomes of where the budget will stand dependent on what levies pass in May and other financial factors in the district. The best-case scenario, according to the committee, would put the budget shortfall at $660,000, if all levies pass in May for the district. According to the budget forecast provided by the committee, the charter schools, which were approved, could generate about $700,000 in revenue per year for the district. The rental revenue, such as the St. Peters Health lease deal in which former Bjork Learning Center will be used by the hospital for day care, could generate about $250,000 per year for the district. There is currently no asking price for the levies that will be presented in May by the district. The priority list for K-5 had reduction ideas that would reduce central office and department budgets by 10%, saving the district $78,000. Another idea is reducing custodial services, saving $561,000 for the district, while closing a school would roughly save $345,000 per school. School closures ranks ninth on the list. Ranked 20th is no elementary physical education and music, but this was reworded by the committee to explain the programs would not be eliminated, but taught by the classroom teachers instead, saving the district about $1 million. In the 6-12 group, it listed in the last spot for middle school to reduce elective offerings, which was tied with adding the elementary model to sixth grade. Reducing the elective offerings option would save the district about $931,000 and the elementary model would save $376,000. In the high school list, ranked eighth was relocating the Project for Alternative Learning, PAL, to Helena High School, saving roughly $300,000. The PAL program is now listed as a charter school, earning the district revenue even though before the charter applications were approved it was listed to be eliminated as an idea. During the committees final meeting on Feb. 7 before the board of trustees meeting on Feb. 13, it was given questions to answer by Watson. The questions posed involved what members wanted the board to know about the committee, the process and the list. The last question was, What advice would you give to the board in making budget decisions? Groups answered each question individually on a notecard then offered their responses to a designated note taker who wrote them on a larger piece of paper. Watson did this because he wanted to make sure when he presents the committees findings he is advocating for the group as a whole and including all voices. Responses from the groups included that the committee remained inclusive, all cuts will have an impact, the district needs long-term solutions at the state level, consider the ripple effect of all decisions and the committee was dedicated to students with their best interest in mind. Helena High School principal Steve Thennis group said they did not believe the list was dialed in enough and wants the board to consider this in its decisions. Weltz said a positive that came out of the process is that the community had a chance to grow with the district and gain a better understanding of how it all works. Were all struggling to make education work, Weltz said when talking about how districts throughout Montana are facing budget deficits. He said he knew the process to come up with a recommendation would take time due to the circumstances and the use of the "Chadwick Model." The Chadwick Model of Conflict Resolution is a multi-step process that is used over the course of multiple sessions. It is considered a nontraditional approach to conflict resolution by organizations that use it. Watson's role during the process was to serve as a facilitator from an outside perspective without bias, according to Redburn Consensus Partners. The model identifies strategies using partners, in this case members of the committee in Helena Public Schools, to identify next steps throughout the process. "Trustees will consider the committees recommendations over the course of multiple meetings. As always, we encourage the public to attend either in person or online and to participate in the public comment periods," Weltz said. Weltz said none of the committee members or the district want to take any of the measures on the list that will be presented to the board and would prefer to continue with the current levels of quality programming the district has to offer through education and staff. "Going forward, the best interests of students will remain our highest priority as we address the funding shortfall hurting our states public schools, Weltz said. Frustration regarding Helena's lack of an emergency shelter boiled over during the city commission's recent administration meeting. Good Samaritan Ministries Executive Director Theresa Ortega told the commission during its Wednesday evening meeting that a recent bid to open a 26-bed emergency women's shelter dubbed Ruth's Place was snuffed out when the proposed site of the shelter was purchased in January. "We have gone through all the steps of this," Ortega said. "We've gone through the CUP process, and then we got thrown a monkey wrench. The building was sold from under us." Good Samaritan Ministries also operates Our Place, a peer-support drop-in center that funnels those in need to addiction counseling and other services, within the same building, located at 648 Jackson St. Ortega said the nonprofit's attorney has reviewed the existing Our Place lease and said it should hold up, though she said she has also heard in Montana a new owner is permitted to cancel existing leases. "I'm not sure what's going on with that yet. I need direct information," Ortega said. "If the lease is held in place, we have until February 2025. The other issues are, we were told we could not move forward with Ruth's Place due to the owner not wanting it there, the new owner." That new owner is Helena developer and business owner Rex Seeley, who said Jan. 22 he and one other person are under contract to purchase the downtown property and invoked a nondisclosure agreement shrouding the deal. Seeley declined to disclose his intent behind the purchase. The Helena City Commission for months has attempted to solidify a solution to the city's growing unsheltered population, one of the fastest growing in the state according to state Sen. Mary Ann Dunwell, D-Helena. The commission went so far as to offer up a $100,000 bounty set aside from the city's allocation of more than $8 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds to any possible solution to the problem. The money remains unclaimed, and City Commissioner Melinda Reed has since proposed creating a task force to recommend policies and identify opportunities to spend the money. "It's snowing outside," Reed said. "We don't have an emergency warming shelter in our community. We had the same conversation last year. ... And I know there's all these processes in place, and forgive me if my frustration shows, but I am frustrated knowing it's still snowing, we still don't have anything and these conversations feel like in two years, we might have another document to look at, but we are not finding solutions." Reed added she does not see a "clear path to addressing this problem." "So I am looking for inspiration, I am looking for options," she said. "I am trying to think of a way to unstick us from a place where all these groups are talking about the problem, and yet, we have $100,000 we've allocated to addressing the solution, and we don't have anything to do with those funds. ... I'm not sure by next winter we're going to know what to do, and I find that challenging." Fellow city commissioners and some city staff have balked at the idea of establishing a new task force, instead insisting a soon-to-be-established working group be tasked with reviewing and implementing new land use planning policy as required by the 2023 Legislature's Senate Bill 302. Helena Community Development Director Chris Brink said his "initial concern" with a new task force is "staff availability" while having the parallel processes playing out simultaneously. When asked by Reed if the working group will consider emergency housing issues, Brink said "(w)e can make it so. We're tasked with looking at a broad spectrum of housing." The problem, however, is negotiations with a third-party consultant chosen to facilitate the working group have only just begun. Brink said he does not anticipate the group holding its first meeting until March. He said the plan is for the group to meet over the next 18 months, with recommendations coming from the group as early as July 2025. "Is there potential for faster, more immediate action to come out of that group prior to 2025 or do we have to wait?," City Commissioner Andy Shirtliff asked. Brink said any timeline would need to follow what is outlined in the new state law. "I'm hearing by 2025 some of the broader issues will be addressed, and that's great, and I know I really look forward to that process, but it still doesn't quite address the right now," Reed said. "At this point in our community, we have a very serious problem, and we can't quite seem to figure out what to do. It feels like another good reason to keep trying to figure it out. ... I struggle with the current state of affairs and knowing that there are great people in this community ready to help, they just don't know how to do it." City Commissioner Emily Dean suggested utilizing existing, informal working groups previously established by the city for this purpose. City Commissioner Sean Logan questioned whether an emergency shelter is even the responsibility of city government, to which Dunwell later responded, "it is all of our responsibility, especially as elected officials." Ortega said her organization is not giving up and that she has personally toured "several pieces of property" to house Good Samaritan operations in the future. "But at the same time, we're going to have the same problem: 'We don't want you in our neighborhood,'" Ortega said. "It doesn't mean we're going to quit. We still have a large group of donors that is supporting Ruth's Place. We've got people who are working with us on beds. We just have no place to go right now." She said the organization has inquired about moving into the May Butler Center, a portion of the larger St. John's Building on south Rodney Street. "It is really frustrating," Ortega said. "And it is really frustrating to go to the same meetings over and over again and still get the same 'What are we going to do? Where are we going to go?'" Ortega said for now, Good Samaritan will house as many people as they can in Helena-area hotels this winter. "Good Samaritan is more than willing to get people into hotels this winter as needed because there's not going to be overflow shelter, and Ruth's Place is not going to be able to go through this winter because of circumstances with our building," she said. City Manager Tim Burton said without establishing a new task force, "maybe we can continue to talk to all the experts that have been at the table, including our own people, and keep this in front of the commission. Maybe not every meeting, but at least try to bring some definition relative to the city's role in a strategic partnership with the experts that we know are out there doing hard work and good work." Ortega urged the city government to maintain the wave of momentum that has built up behind the issue. "If we start all this over again with re-planning and new meetings, we're going to be right back where we were last year," she said. "We can get the people covered this year in hotels and other options, but let's not stop the momentum from where we're at right now." Michael Bolton A new study has named Dublin as one of the best destinations for food in Europe. Research by tour company Solo Female Travelers Tours named Dublin fourth on the list. They analysed data from TripAdvisor, including the number of restaurants offering local cuisine, Michelin-star establishments, and vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants in each European city. Paris was named the best city in Europe for food, with a score of 74.69. Paris received the highest possible score of 10 for the number of restaurants overall, as well as a score of 10 for the number of Michelin-star restaurants. Florence was named the second best city, with a score of 70.39. Florence received the highest possible score of 10 for multiple factors, including the number of vegetarian-friendly restaurants and establishments offering local cuisine. This is followed by the Italian capital Rome, due to the city scoring 9.99 for the number of restaurants in the city. Dublin was named in fourth with a score of 61.57. This was due to its atmosphere and scoring 9.99 for a number of its vegan friendly restaurants. The top five was rounded off by Bologna, with a score of 61.36. The Italian city scored 10 for the number of bars and pubs, as well as the number of establishments offering online delivery. Our data suggests that 63 per cent of women consider how appealing the local gastronomy is when choosing a destination. Foodies will be particularly interested in these 10 cities which stand out for their culinary scene, said a spokesperson from Solo Female Travelers Tours. Most of these cities are also in the most visited countries in the world such as France, Italy or Spain, and are popular destinations in our portfolio of tours for women, where we curate rich and immersive food and wine experiences at homes, wineries and farms. CHARLESTON Police are still investigating the death of a missing Edgar County man whose body was located in southeast Coles County following efforts by multiple search groups to locate him. Coles County Sheriffs Office Chief Deputy Tyler Heleine said on Friday that their investigators found the body of Chad N. Brooks at approximately 2:55 p.m. Thursday near the Westfield Road in rural Charleston. This roadway was briefly closed from Whetstone to Hutton roads at that time. "I cant provide much more information at this time," Heleine said. "I want to make sure our investigation is complete before we release any further details." The sheriff's office reported that a missing person report for Brooks had been filed Feb. 4 in Edgar County, where the sheriff's office took the lead on the missing person case. He lived in rural Marshall in southern Edgar County. Heleine said on Thursday that law enforcement officers and more than 45 other searchers spent Tuesday combing through approximately 400 acres in the vicinity of where Brooks was last seen on Jan. 31 outside of Westfield in Coles County. Brooks was seen at the time walking away from his white Dodge pick-up truck, which was subsequently recovered. "We have put a lot of resources into trying to locate this individual," Heleine said of this missing person case. Tuesday's search party included personnel from the Illinois Law Enforcement Alarm System, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, and search and rescue teams from McLean and St. Clair counties. Heleine said they also fielded four drones, three canine units, and the Lincoln Fire Protection District-based dive team, which searched ponds and other small bodies of water. He said family members of Brooks helped with the search, including by posting flyers throughout Coles County. Skodas new generation Kodiaq is now available to order for June deliveries at the earliest. It is priced from 53,670. This latest model is offered exclusively with seven seats, with the exception of the new 204hp Plug-in hybrids five-seat arrangement offered for the first time in the model and more expensively priced from 57,590. The line-up also includes a 1.5 petrol with 150hp and two 2.0 TDI diesels with 150hp and 193hp, the latter mated to a 4x4 AWD transmission. Skoda say diesel engines account for 96% of Irish Kodiaq sales and that this trend is likely to continue. The new car is bigger and more imposing than the previous model and with 75 litres of extra luggage capacity. Features include a new 13-inch infotainment display and physical smart dials positioned below the infotainment display that provide the driver with instant access to essential functions like climate control and featuring small colour screen displays. The automatic transmission gear selector is now on the steering column. Kodiaq has been one of the Czech brands most successful models with more than 850,000 sales worldwide. The TV licence fee should be reformed and Ireland should adopt a model like the one used in Scandinavia with high earners paying more, according to Fine Gael TD Alan Dillon. The Castlebar based representative favours a system where the money is collected by Revenue from citizens and he believes low earners should pay nothing or less. Tanaiste Micheal Martin has today also suggested Revenue collecting the money could work positively. Deputy Dillon has also insisted local media outlets such as regional radio stations and newspapers should benefit from the new model. There has been a significant decrease in the amount of people paying the fee due to several RTE scandals, including Toy Show The Musical, which lost the broadcaster 2.2million. The number of TV licence fees purchased last year fell by 13 per cent - or 123,000 licences -according to Media Department of figures. It represents a revenue loss of 19 million. Deputy Dillon, an Oireachtas Media Committee member, questioned former RTE presenter Ryan Tubridy late last year over the payments controversy and he believes radical changes are necessary. I think it is widely accepted the current licensing system is outdated, it is not collecting revenue from everyone who is watching TV, he said. I know from the recent debacle that has hit RTE it has now become a very unpopular tax so certainly reforming it would be crucially important to make it fairer and more equitable. Deputy Dillon said they need to be realistic about the challenges of reforming the levy and the Government are taking their time to consult with stakeholders and devise fair and workable changes. I think central to this is a sustainable funding model for the national broadcaster RTE, but also, those of us who engage with independent broadcasters and local media, he said. I think there is a need that the funding also needs to extend to the likes of TG4, Virgin Media and other media organisations at a national and a regional level including local independent radio and print that contribute to public service media content. Deputy Dillon stated he has considered how the licence fee system can be restructured. I have looked at the approach taken by countries, the likes of Denmark and Finland, who have transitioned towards a slide and scale concept model of public funding, he said. These countries have adopted a media charge that is more inclusive and reflects the current digital landscape. Deputy Dillon explained both countries fund their public service media exclusively from public and he believes this would potentially result in a fairer system. The slide and scale system in Finland is a progressive broadcasting tax so lower income individuals would pay less or nothing while those who can contribute the most and businesses would pay more, he added. Deputy Dillon said another positive is that this change would certainly widen the tax base. I would feel that Revenue are probably the best qualified to implement such a system and the model could potentially alleviate the need for RTE to heavily rely on their commercial income allowing them to prioritise public service content without compromising its financial stability, he added. Media Minister Catherine Martin favours funding RTE through Exchequer funding. Tanaiste Micheal Martin has said if Revenue collected the money it could be lowered down from the current rate of 160 per year. The Oireachtas Media Committee are due to meet again next Wednesday. Deputy Dillon believes former RTE board members and current board members should all be named and referenced in the reports. He said former director general Dee Forbes should also appear or offer some insight as she is central to the biggest scandal to hit the national broadcaster. Dee Forbes insight is critical to further understand the decisions that were taken, he added. Meanwhile, Sinn Fein Mayo TD Rose Conway Walsh insisted wages for the high earners at RTE are too high and they need to be lowered. I am not convinced by arguments that these wages are the going rate in the private sector and that RTE would lose out if there were not willing to pay them, she said. I believe in the importance of a public broadcast service, but the public need to have faith in the way it is run and finances are managed. She stressed no public body should be able to use a limited commercial operation to hide from public accountability and scrutiny. Last year in response to scandal I brought forward legislation to bring RTE under the remit of the Comptroller & Auditor General, she added. Deputy Conway-Walsh said this is common practice for public bodies even other commercial public bodies. That is one practical step the government could take to increase transparency and rebuild trust, she said. The licence fee is an outdated and regressive method of funding public service media and it is charged at a flat rate of 160, regardless of household income. International experts and leading barristers from Ireland, the US, Australia and the UK will address a conference on the challenge of facilitating jury trials for terrorism and organised crime at a two-day conference hosted by the School of Law, University of Galway in association with Birmingham Law School on February 16th and 17th in University of Galway. The event, which is being co-organised by Swinford-born Professor Donncha OConnell, of University of Galway, and Dr Alan Greene, of Birmingham Law School, will hear a keynote address from Professor Fionnuala Ni Aolain, MRIA KC, Regents Professor and Robina Chair in Law, Public Policy and Society at the University of Minnesota and Professor of Law at Queens University Belfast. Professor Ni Aolain, who has just completed her mandate as UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights and Counter-Terrorism, is a member of the International Commission of Jurists and has just been made an honorary Kings Counsel in recognition of her outstanding work. The conference will also hear from leading criminal barristers in Ireland and Scotland, Brendan Grehan SC, Alice Harrison BL and Ronnie Renucci KC, in a session focused on practitioner perspectives on Day Two of the conference, which will be chaired by Supreme Court judge, Ms Justice Iseult OMalley. Mr Grehan, who is a graduate of University of Galway, has defended and prosecuted in the Special Criminal Court, most recently acting as defence counsel for Gerard Hutch, who was acquitted of the Regency Hotel murder. Speaking ahead of the event, Professor OConnell, who was member of the Independent Review Group on the Offences Against the State Acts chaired by retired Court of Appeal judge, Michael Peart, which reported in June 2023, said: Following on from the work of the Review Group which published a majority and minority report but was unanimous in recommending repeal and replacement of the Offences Against the State Acts this conference aims to explore the options open to Ireland when conducting trials for terrorism and organised crime, bearing in mind the priority attached to the right to trial by jury under the Irish Constitution. We hope to draw on the comparative expertise of academics and practitioners and relevant international standards in considering the likely shape of legislation to replace the Offences Against the State Acts at some stage in the future." The conference should be of interest to human rights activists, legal practitioners, members of An Garda Siochana and others working in the administration of justice and criminal justice policy. An Achill-based councillor has called for public toilets to be opened this month at Keem Bay Beach to accommodate the footfall it has been receiving as a result of recent international acclaim. Fianna Fail Cllr Paul McNamara said Keem Bay has enjoyed major success this year after it was named in the top 100 beaches in the world by leading travel guide Lonely Planet, as well as worldwide recognition for its prominence in the Oscar-nominated film The Banshees of Inisherin. He said Mayo Co Council has to help to realise the beach's potential by providing sufficient support. It is important to support Keem Bay with proper infrastructure. I would ask the executive to open the toilets from the February bank holiday weekend on and to keep them maintained. Keem is a spectacular place filled with natural beauty and is the place to go, not just in the West but in all of Ireland. It is suggested on Google Maps as soon as you fly into any of our airports. Westport-based Cllr Christy Hyland supported Cllr McNamaras comments. What is good for Achill is good for Westport. It is important that whatever funding is needed is granted, he said. Head of the Municipal District Padraig Walsh said the council recognises the significance of Keem Bay and is at the advanced stages of a detailed management plan for the beach. We acknowledge Keem as a jewel in the crown of this district. We have funding in place for the toilets and the council's tourism section is at an advanced stage in devising a management plan for the entire Keem site, Mr Walsh told councillors. The Supreme Court seems poised to reject attempts to kick former President Donald Trump off the 2024 ballot. The justices could act quickly, possibly by Super Tuesday on March 5, when Colorado, Maine and 13 other states will hold primaries. READING, Pa. - One of the newest members of Reading City Council is just getting back from a trip to Washington, D.C. She took part in an event in the nation's capital aimed at celebrating Dominican leaders and addressing the challenges Dominicans face. "We were invited. This is an event called "Dominicans on the Hill," said First District Councilmember Vanessa Campos. It's an historic trip of firsts for Campos. "There's a briefing that happened for the first time this past Tuesday where elected officials were invited across the nation to get together and hear a little bit more about the Biden administration and Latinos and to further government affairs," said Campos. The day was about sharing the experience of getting to visit the White House for the very first time, joined by local state Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, and also someone "very close" to Vanessa. "It was surreal to say the least. I was joined with Priscilla Campos, which is [a] magistrate district judge, the first Latina in the city. A Dominican American, my sister." Topics discussed with other leaders of Dominican descent involved those at the federal level developing programs to break down language barriers in Reading and keep people informed of resources available to them. "To continue to educate the community There's lot of things we don't know how to do, how to seek assistance, so continue to educate, provide opportunities to engage with the community," Campos said. Overall, Campos says she's happy to see the focus in Washington, D.C. on diversity and representation for all. She looks to take her lessons learned from the historic trip and put them to good use through her seat on City Council. "It felt nice to see the support to represent Pennsylvania, Berks County," Campos said. "It was very empowering." BETHLEHEM, Pa. The Bethlehem Planning Commission received an update on the city's housing plan Thursday night at city hall. The proposal, called "Opening Doors: Strategies to Build Housing Stability in Bethlehem," was completed by the city last November and is projected by city officials to be implemented over the next five years. The programs will be in addition to existing programs for first-time homebuyers, home and facade repair and tax incentives for affordable housing. Ultimately, the proposed housing plan will create additional rental housing by expanding city spending for affordable housing. "Addressing housing initiatives is a major initiative of the current administration," Director of Planning Darlene Heller said. "We, as an administration, look at it as a moral imperative but also an economic necessity for our community, and the Lehigh Valley as a whole, to continue to thrive and grow with the sort of growth we've seen over the last decade," Deputy Director of Community Development Sara Satullo told the planning commission. "We need housing that is affordable for everyone." Satullo began the report by defining what actually constitutes "affordable housing." "When we speak of 'affordable housing' as an administration, we are talking about the federal definition," Satullo said. "The idea that you shouldn't be spending more than 30% of your gross income on housing and utilities." Satullo added that if you are spending more than that amount, an individual would be classified "cost burdened." "One in five Bethlehem renters are what is known as 'extremely cost-burdened,'" she said. "That means they are paying more than 50% of their household income on housing." Renters in particular are "bearing the burden of the housing crisis" more than homeowners. The study notes that individuals earning less than $30,000 per year may be unable to secure housing in Bethlehem. For example, the report says rental units priced below $800 per month have almost vanished. Top 10 A total of 10 projects were presented as part of the "Opening Doors" proposal. The creation of additional government programs comprised nearly half. A pilot program, called the Accessory Dwelling Unit Program, involves the city writing the necessary zoning regulations and policies that will allow homeowners to add apartments to their property, along with providing "technical assistance to homeowners and support nonprofit builders to ensure new units are affordable to low- and moderate-income households." "We want to look at amendments that would allow [accessory dwelling] use to occur," Heller told planners Thursday night. Another new initiative is called the Affordable Rental Housing Construction Program. This involves offering gap funding to developers to increase project competitiveness in other grant programs such as the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Program. Still another new program would be called the Landlord Incentive Program. This would involve Bethlehem working with the Bethlehem Housing Authority to provide gap funding. In this case, unlike the Affordable Rental Housing Construction Program, the gap funding would pay the difference between what a Section 8 voucher holder can pay and market rent to ensure vouchers are utilized. A fourth new program is called the Implement Eviction Prevention and Rental Assistance Program. This will assist nonprofit service providers so they can provide education, eviction mediation services and emergency rental assistance to households currently housing and at-risk of homelessness. Other provisions involve changing city zoning laws to encourage by-right affordable housing development without requiring a special exception or variance. Mayor J. William Reynolds' administration also wants to work with the BHA and other organizations to grant site control of parcels and buildings that can support the construction of 400 to 600 new units. To that end, the city plans to apply to the federal government for a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Choice Neighborhoods Planning Grant. In addition to new programs, the city is also establishing a priority "for increasing the supply of deeply affordable units within existing funding programs." To do that, the city would create "priority scoring and set-asides in all housing programs to ensure the construction of more housing units affordable to households earning less than 50 percent of area median income." Regional cooperation is also a prominent aspect of the plan. Bethlehem's plan says the city will "combine forces with other Lehigh Valley housing departments to advocate for more affordable housing tools than what's currently allowed in the state municipal code." While these 10 projects were presented last November, not all can be implemented. For example, the city is limited by the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code. The city cannot require developers to set aside units for low- and moderate-income households. Bethlehem cannot also set rent control policies, nor can they require landlords to attend mediation proceedings before evicting tenants. No formal action was taken by the Bethlehem Planning Commission on the report Thursday night. ALLENTOWN, Pa. The Penn State law student running for Congress in the Lehigh Valley suspended his campaign on Friday. Allen Issa, a former Republican congressional aide and 2024 J.D. candidate at Penn State, is out of the race for a House seat in Pennsylvania's 7th congressional district. He says he is suspending his campaign to focus on finishing his legal education. Issa, 26, said he decided to endorse Maria Montero, the Pennsylvania Convention Center's current director of public affairs, after meeting with all remaining GOP candidates. He will be joining Montero's campaign as a policy advisor and assist in fundraising efforts. "It is clear to me that Maria Montero is the best equipped candidate not only to defeat Susan Wild, but also to serve the people of the district in Congress," Issa said in a press release. "Her vision for our district and her unwavering dedication to our shared values stand out." The suspension of Issa's campaign leaves three Republican challengers to Wild in the race: Montero, state Rep. Ryan Mackenzie (R-Lehigh) and business owner Kevin Dellicker. ALLENTOWN, Pa. The Allentown School District Board of Directors received a report on the proposed 2024-25 spending plan Thursday night during committee meetings. The district is proposing a $434.3 million spending plan, with most of the revenue $278.5 million or 64.1% coming from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and $132.7 million from local revenue, with the remaining 5.3% derived from the federal government. The district's expenditures are mainly allocated to district salaries 34%. The next highest allocation of funds is designated to benefits for those employees, totaling 26% of all spending. According to Jeffrey Cuff, interim CFO for the district, cost increases were seen across the board, with charter school costs increasing by 3.7%, salaries rising by 4%, benefits increasing by 10% and debt payments increasing per the debt schedule. The most significant increase was transportation costs, at a whopping 30%. Cuff explained that the increase comes from a need for more bus drivers an issue that has plagued other districts. He said transportation companies have increased salaries to attract more drivers, which drives up transportation costs. He also said the district will receive a nearly $1 million transportation subsidy to offset costs. Cuff said the number shows an increase, and it's expected to "help [with] some of that cost increase." Cuff also said that 77.4% of Allentown property tax bills are dedicated to charter school tuition for the 2023-24 school year. The number is up from 70.9% in 2022-23 and significantly higher than 27.2% in the 2011-12 school year. While the numbers are high, board members showed confidence that enrollment in the district will increase with cultural changes and ongoing improvements. "We're solving many problems," one board member said. Thursday's presentation represented just one step in the budgeting process, culminating with the board of directors' review and voting on an approved budget at a June 13 meeting. Cuff also presented Gov. Josh Shapiro's budget, which shows potential increases in funding that could impact the district. Another possible bright spot in the governor's budget is the establishment of a statewide cyber tuition rate of $8,000 per student per year "that will better align tuition with the actual costs of providing online education," according to Cuff's presentation. "That will cut down on a lot of our expenses that we're currently seeing," Cuff said. Currently, tuition for the average student is $11,000-$12,000, while students with special needs or an Individualized Education Program, or IEP, have a tuition of $34,000 per student. Partner schools Cuff also presented costs paid to partners whose institutions Allentown School District students attend. They include Lehigh Carbon Community College (LCCC), Lehigh Carbon Intermediate Unit (CLIU), and Lehigh Career and Technical Institute (LCTI). The proposed 2024-25 budget contribution to LCCC is $1.639 million, which denotes a $20,266 decrease over the current year and includes the district's required debt/lease/capital share. The district's contribution to CLIU is estimated at $124,186, a decrease of $1,096 over the prior year. Lastly, the proposed budget contribution for the district for LCTI is $7.219 million, which is an increase of $23,000 over the current year, Cuff said. During the question-and-answer portion of the meeting, the board addressed the cultural makeup of the schools. One question specifically asked how many non-Caucasians were employed by LCCC. Stefanie Nester, LCCC vice president for finance and administrative services, said of the 700 LCCC employees, 15% were identified as non-Caucasians, "which is representative of our population." The board inquired about representation on LCTI's board, intimating that the district has a disproportionate number of members for its contribution. With more than 27% of LCTI's population coming from the district, the board questioned the seats allocated. Currently, membership is based upon property valuation with the district, which the board disputed its fairness. "We are working collaboratively with our districts to continue to move ahead," said Lisa Greenawalt, LCTI's executive director. At CLIU, 6% of the nearly 1,200 employees are considered diverse. "That's not good," board members said. Gregory Koons, executive director with CLIU, said they'd been exploring options for recruiting employees from alternative sources. The presentation Thursday night did not provide a proposed tax increase rate. The board voted to adopt the LCTI, CLIU and LCCC budgets on Feb. 22. Transportation contract In other news, the board heard a presentation regarding a new transportation contract with Student Transportation of America. According to the district's website, STA will replace First Student, who will provide student transportation services through the expiration of their current contract on June 30, 2024. The estimated cost of the contract is $59,541,143 over the five-year period, which includes a year one estimate of $10,992,811 and 3.85% annual increases. District documents state, "The cost estimate is calculated using STA's proposed rates for full-size buses, mini-buses, lift-buses, vans, and hourly rates for monitors and expected field trips." According to Andrew Krahulik-Knapp, director of transportation, the company has ordered a fleet and is "making sure the fleet meets the need." Additionally, the company is looking for a terminal manager and is reviewing applications. Krahulik-Knapp said the district will be part of the selection process. He also said that STA signed a letter of intent for a depot site at 925 N. Godfrey St. "They're very excited about that," said Krahulik-Knapp. In other financial actions, the board heard a request for 361 new cameras at William Allen High School by Brandon Pasquale, director of safety and security. A technology grant from the Commission on Crime and Delinquency funds the purchase. The cameras will address blind spots. New courses In other news, the board reviewed a request for approval of the district's 2024-25 program of studies, which contains the recommended addition of four one-credit courses and 13 half-credit courses. "Our goal is to provide a well-rounded education that prepares students for both academic success and real-world challenges," wrote Melissa Smith, executive director of learning and teaching for the district. Courses range from Latin American studies to digital literacy and business communications. The courses represent four categories, including "Prepare for College and Career" and "Prepare for an Ever Changing World." The board supported the idea of additional courses, saying such additions would make the district more competitive among other educational options available to students. Other offerings include robotics engineering, video media production, architectural drawing and design, game design, cybersecurity and visual communication, and product design. Mobile apps Lastly, the board heard a request to renew the Counslr mobile app, a digital mental health platform for Allentown School District students in grades nine through 12. The mobile app would be extended through the remainder of the 2023-24 school year through July 31, 2024. According to the request, Counslr "helps to support all students who may need help, especially those who don't seek it, and those who face hurdles related to inconvenience, cost, and stigma. Unlimited services will be available at any time." "Additionally, Counslr provides a comprehensive database of vetted self-help resources for a variety of issues, including: abuse, anxiety and stress, depression and sadness, eating and body image, relationships, food and housing insecurity selfharm and suicide, substance abuse, and grief," according to board documents. Another app, Brainfuse, was also endorsed by the board. The board reiterated the importance of these apps and encouraged their use. It is laughable for any member of Congress, the President or media to defend Mayorkas deliberate actions by calling this a political stunt. I ask each of them: How many illegal immigrants is enough? How many deaths at the hands of immigrants is enough? How much U.S. taxpayer money is enough to throw at this deliberate crisis? To the Republicans in the House - based on your articles of impeachment against Secretary Mayorkas, why not draw the same articles up for President Biden? Biden has either directed Mayorkas inactions or is derelict in supervising his cabinet. Either way, Biden has no business continuing as Commander in Chief. To Biden and Mayorkas Illinois accomplices, including Senators Durbin and Duckworth, Governor Pritzker, and Illinois Democrat Party - why the support? What is your end state? Whose money are you spending on this deliberate effort to destroy America? Time for America to stand up and evict not only the illegal immigrants but those elected to represent us. They are failing us at an alarming rate. Both parties own this mess, and neither party has the courage to solve it. The first step is to put up and man a physical barrier between Mexico and the United States. Second those currently in detention (unfortunately a very small number), quickly and expeditiously conduct their amnesty hearing and then send them back home. Economic hardship is not a valid reason. Third action, no more federal funding to states or communities that do not work hand in hand with ICE and CBP. Next ethics reform in Congress. No more legislation by lobbyist. Lastly members of Congress, their staff and federal employees stand up annually and take the naturalization oath of allegiance to the United States of America. Eric Murray, Pawnee BUSHKILL TWP., Pa. A federal appeals court in Philadelphia has ruled that a Northampton County family can sue state police officers for kicking in their door and causing serious injuries after they acted on an incorrect drug tip in 2018. According to court documents, the case was argued last September at the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. The decision reverses a lower court order from September 2022. The lawsuit filed by the family alleges that a total of 43 Pennsylvania State Police, Northampton County Drug Task Force and Colonial Regional Police Department officers raided the home of Ada and Richard Anglemeyer, 340 Old Allentown Road in Bushkill Township, in February 2018. Individual officers from these law enforcement agencies are named as defendants in the suit, which claims police violated civil rights, used excessive force and lacked proper training. The plaintiffs seek more than $225,000 in damages on each charge. The Anglemeyers were in their late 70s at the time of the incident. Their son Jeffrey Anglemeyer and son-in-law Joseph Kluska in their 50s and 40s at the time, respectively were also seriously hurt during the raid, according to the lawsuit. Several of their injuries required surgery and led to further emotional trauma, the lawsuit says. The suit claims that the intended target of the raid, Ada and Richard's other son Mark Anglemeyer, was not at the home when police arrived. Mark Anglemeyer had been accused of selling methamphetamine by Colonial Regional Police. The lawsuit says police entered the wrong building of the five-building property. While no methamphetamine was found during the raid, police did find 25 guns with homemade gun suppressors, Molotov cocktails, a small amount of marijuana with a marijuana plant, more than $20,000 in cash and plastic bags with "methamphetamine residue," according to Colonial Regional Police. No Anglemeyer family members were charged after the raid, though Klusksa pled guilty to possession of drug paraphernalia and paid a $700 fine, according to online records. ALLENTOWN, Pa. - From scaling a skyscraper to rappelling off a bridge, it's called Grimpday, a worldwide competition of the highest order. "Grimp is actually an acronym for something in French I'm not going to even attempt to say," said Andy Millick. Allentown native and 2010 Parkland grad, now Stowe, Vermont-based Millick is part of the 7-man Corvus Professional training team, the only U.S. ropes rescue team competing in the Belgium-based event this summer. Millick's profession is where adventure and lifesaving rescues are the daily grind. "It could be hiking in, it could be rappelling down a rock face, it could be swimming across a raging river to get to these folks," he said. The 4-day competition involves 22 international teams competing in a series of life saving scenarios. "For us it's putting our skills against other professionals in the industry and seeing kind of how we stack up as a team and with our professional skill sets," Andy said. "Besides his technical expertise, that he has learned through ski patrolling and mountain rescue, he brings a high level of passion," said team leader Mike Lackman. Millick, a paid volunteer, created a GoFundMe page for his wife and daughter to come to Belgium. "My wife and I, we take two vehicles when we go out to eat dinner in case I get a call, so my wife and child have a way to get home from dinner. So, it's an opportunity, a way to say thank you for my family to allow me to do what I do," Millick said. The world will see what Millick can do in June. Local leaders and lawmakers are looking at ways to support the state's semiconductor industry. They hosted a joint state Senate committee discussion and tour at Infinera in Allentown. "We've got 30 companies with about 1500 employees and lots of interest in growing this sector, but you need the workers and you really need some support in order to compete with Asia and other parts of America," said President and CEO of the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation, Don Cunningham. Last fall, the Lehigh Valley was passed over for a federal tech hub designation as well as the $75 million grant that came with it to support the semiconductor industry. "Other states are putting packages forward to companies like Infinera to come to their states. We need to be aggressive," said Republican state Sen. Tracy Pennycuick. "So, we need to have facilities that are ready to be built for those large manufacturing requirements that chip manufacturers and the semiconductors have. We need to do that today." Pennycuick, chair of the Communications and Technology Committee, agrees with Gov. Josh Shapiro's strategy to invest more than $550 million combined in a statewide plan to attract and grow key industries. The specifics of that strategy still need to be hammered out in the budget negotiation process. "Those dollars, they triple," Pennycuick said. "Get into an industry, that industry hires people, that employee lives in the community, spends its dollars in the community, becomes rooted in the community. That's what we need in Pennsylvania." "I think it's great to see the state focusing on the sectors that if they invest in can generate good returns," Cunningham said. "Technology, the life sciences, advanced manufacturing." BETHLEHEM, Pa. - The South Bethlehem space that previously housed Petes Hot Dog Shop for more than 80 years is finding new life with another family-run eatery. Sams Restaurant, which has operated for over a year at 129 Bridge St. in Catasauqua, will debut its new location at the former Petes site, 400 Broadway, with a free taste dinner on Friday, Feb. 9. The free event, starting at 7 p.m., is open to the public and will feature complimentary food samples. Sams Restaurant is run by Sam Rodriguez with assistance from his father, Carlos Rodriguez, and the pair wishes to express their gratitude to the community during the event. Individuals attending Fridays free taste dinner will have an opportunity to enjoy some of Sam Restaurants most popular dishes, including chicken wings, pork chops, pernil (roast pork), Cuban sandwiches, tostones and arroz con gandules, Puerto Ricos national dish of rice with pigeon peas. For all of our regular customers that are from Catasauqua, our first location, you already know how we here at Sams Restaurant love to bless people and show our gratitude for supporting us, a post on the business Facebook page reads. I would love for you all including our new customers in Bethlehem and everywhere else to come join us tomorrow night Friday 2/9/24 at 7PM for a FREE taste dinner of some of our favorite foods. The new Sams Restaurant will hold its official grand opening where customers can order from the business full menu next Friday, Feb. 16, Carlos said. Regular hours will be announced in the coming days, but the Rodriguezes anticipate operating the new location at least five days a week, with tentative hours being 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. each day. The Rodriguezes were forced to find a new location for their restaurant after the property at 129 Bridge St. and the adjacent building at 135 Bridge St. in Catasauqua were condemned by the borough in September due to code violations and structurally unsound conditions, Carlos said. Upstairs residential tenants were also forced to vacate the Catasauqua property. There is still a possibility that the restaurants Catasauqua location could reopen later this year if the landlord resolves the issues, Carlos said. If that happens, Sams Restaurant would then have two locations. As of now, the Bethlehem restaurant is going to be our only location, Carlos said. Were very excited. I live in Lower Saucon Township, which is just five minutes from the new location. The Rodriguezes added some Puerto Rican flags and other minor cosmetic touches to the south Bethlehem space, but for the most part, they were intent on keeping it just the way it is, Carlos said. Food will still be cooked in an open kitchen near the entrance, and customers will still enjoy their food at orange booths and an eating counter with gray and chrome stools. Breakfast, lunch and dinner will be served. Since debuting in Catasauqua in summer 2022, Sams Restaurant has built a strong following thanks to its fresh dishes and friendly service. Authentic Puerto Rican selections include staples such as pastelillos, tostones, relleno de papa (potato balls stuffed with meat and deep fried) and alcapurria (fritters made with green plantains and yautia stuffed with meat and fried). Other popular menu items include burgers, cheesesteaks, Cuban sandwiches and chicken parmigiana sandwiches. Various New York-style heroes, served with your choice of cheese, include ham, pastrami, roast beef, turkey and salami. Everything is fresh, and we have something for everyone, Carlos said. For example, we have pastelillos of all kinds, including shrimp, crab, octopus, ham and cheese, pizza, pork, beef, beef and cheese, chicken, chicken and cheese and just cheese. Customers will be able to enjoy sandwiches such as fish, chopped cheese, grilled chicken and crispy chicken patty; munchies and sides such as mozzarella sticks and Sams Fiesta Bowl (fries topped with chopped grilled chicken, melted cheese and Sams special sauce); and chilled treats such as ice cream, milkshakes and floats. In south Bethlehem, the Rodriguezes are introducing some new menu items such as knishes, breakfast sandwiches and New York-style hot dogs. I used to have a hot dog cart in New York City, Carlos said. So, were going to serve Sabrett hot dogs with the casing that gives them a nice snap. Customers also will be able to choose different toppings. Lehigh University graduate Yongkang Gao and his business partner, Bill Geddes, in the spring purchased the south Bethlehem corner property along with an adjacent three-story building that is home to two residential units. The duo originally intended to open their own restaurant in the former Petes building, but a recent "change of plans" sparked by the partners having a lot on their plates in terms of other business dealings led them to seek another restaurant operator for the space, according to Reed Rutherford, the Bethlehem propertys listing agent with Assist 2 Sell Buyers & Sellers Realty in Northampton. Gao, who lives in the Bay Area of California where he works for Apple, owns several other residential properties on Bethlehem's South Side and was eager to purchase Petes and the residential building when he learned they were for sale. Geddes, who is known as "Executive Chef Billy G," has restaurant experience including a hot dog truck and was planning to oversee the new venture. Since they are real estate investors, theyre very busy with a lot of other projects that are going on, Rutherford said. Pete's, where generations of Lehigh Valley residents chowed down on hot dogs, cheesesteaks and pierogies, closed in March after 85 years. John and Stacy Mamounas bought Petes in 1988 from Teddy Kourpas, whose uncle, Pete Kourpas, opened the business. The business became known for its stewed burgers and "Greekers" (Hatfield hot dogs with chili, mustard and onions). In recent years, the Mamounases' daughter, Effie Ramirez, ran Pete's day-to-day operations with help from her three sons. "We're so appreciative of our customers," Ramirez said in February 2023. "I've been telling people, 'It's been an honor to serve you for the last 20 years, and I will miss you.' But I'm not going anywhere. You'll still see me out in the community." Because of the buildings rich history thats associated with a family-run business dishing out casual comfort food, Gao and Geddes were looking to secure a tenant that would continue that legacy, Rutherford said. E. LANSDOWNE, Pa. We're learning new details about a tragedy in Delaware County. Bodies recovered Investigators say they've recovered three bodies from the East Lansdowne home that was set on fire Wednesday after a shooting that injured two police officers. Three others are still missing and presumed dead. We've learned that those six victims investigators believe died in the house fire were all members of the Le family and three of them are believed to be children. Officials say dental records may be the only way to identify the burned bodies. Investigators went into the home yesterday to recover evidence. "We recovered 3 bodies in total from the house. One is the person we think was shooting at police officers cause there was a rifle recovered with that body," said Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer. Officials say that investigators will be out later today to continue their search for more evidence and to recover more bodies. Injured police officers The two officers that were shot before that East Lansdowne home went up in flames are recovering from their injuries. Lansdowne Officer David Schiazza and East Lansdowne Officer John Meehan were shot as they responded to a 911 call at the house on Lewis Avenue. Officer Meehan suffered serious injuries caused by a gunshot wound to his left arm that required surgery. He is still recovering at the hospital. Officer Schiazza was shot in the leg. He was discharged from Penn Presbyterian Medical Center on Thursday afternoon. "He (Schiazza) is going home to his family. The hero that he is, he doesn't even want people to know his name," Stollsteimer said. Officer Meehan is expected to be released from the hospital sometime on Friday. Reactions Pennsylvania State Rep. Gina H. Curry (D-Delaware) released the following statement on the fire and shooting: "This is a devastating loss for our community in East Lansdowne and the effects are being felt throughout Delaware County and beyond. I am grateful that our community knows how to come together and aid others at such a difficult time. We are reeling but we are resilient! Big thanks to all of the first responders involved in the incident for their quick response and ability to adapt to such an unpredictable situation and special thanks to the injured officers who are making progress in their recovery. In the aftermath of tragedy, our community will continue to stand strong and support all who need resources as we remember and continue to learn more about the impact this family had in East Lansdowne." EAST LANSDOWNE, Pa. - Investigators now believe six family members likely died in a house fire in East Lansdowne Wednesday. The fire followed a shooting that saw two police officers injured. "There are at least three adults and three children who are unaccounted for and that we fear were in the home at the time of the shooting and the subsequent fire," said Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer. Stollsteimer said all of the dead are believed to be members of the Le family, who lived in the house. State Sen. Tim Kearney visited the scene, saying he learned all of the children attended nearby public schools. "We knew three children lived in the house, and they, one from each. One from the elementary school, one from the middle school, and one from the high school," said Sen. Kearney. Stollsteimer said investigators have now begun the grisly work of pulling evidence out of the rubble. "We have found the torso of one individual, and we've recovered one rifle," said Stollsteimer. Stollsteimer could not confirm the rifle was the weapon used to fire on police officers, but the good news is the two officers who were shot are going to make a full recovery. Lansdowne Officer David Schiazza was even released from the hospital with hundreds of his fellow officers there to greet him. "He is going home to his family. The hero that he is, he doesn't even want people to know his name," said Stollsteimer. East Lansdowne Officer John Meehan is still recovering in Penn Presbyterian Medical Center from a gunshot wound to the arm. Stollsteimer said it could be a while before we learn more about who it was that injured those officers in the first place. "Who shot and how the fire was started. If we ever determine it, it won't be anytime soon," said Stollsteimer. We know that Meehan is expected to be released from the hospital early Friday morning. Stollsteimer said, because of the fire, it may require dental records to identify the victims in the house once they are all recovered. LAS VEGAS (AP) Former President Donald Trump won Nevadas Republican presidential caucuses Thursday after he was the only major candidate to compete, winning his third straight state as he tries to secure his party's nomination. Former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, his last major rival still in the race, skipped the caucuses even though they are the only contest in Nevada that counts toward the GOP nomination. Haley cited what she considered an unfair process favoring Trump and instead ran in Nevadas symbolic state-run presidential primary on Tuesday, when she finished behind the none of these candidates option. Trump will win most, if not all, of the states 26 delegates. He needs to accrue 1,215 delegates to formally clinch the partys nomination and could reach that number in March. From Nevada, the GOP contest pivots to the South Carolina primary in Haley's home state on Feb. 24. Trump remains popular in the deeply conservative state but Haley, who won two elections as South Carolinas governor, is hoping her local roots give her an edge. Trump is eyeing a massive delegate haul during the March 5 Super Tuesday contests, which would move him closer to becoming the GOPs presumptive nominee. Trump, delivering a brief victory speech in Las Vegas, basked in reports of long lines in the Western state and told his supporters he was eager to declare victory in the upcoming South Carolina primary. We're leading everybody," he said. "Is there any way we can call the election for next Tuesday? That's all I want. Though Trump has been the front-runner, Nevadas caucuses were seen as especially skewed in his favor due to the intense grassroots support caucuses require candidates to harness around a state in order to win. Nevadas state party gave him a greater edge last year when it barred candidates from running both in the primary and caucuses and also restricted the role of super PACs like the groups that were key to Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis campaign before he dropped out. Caucuses typically require voters to show up for an in-person meeting at a certain day or time, while elections can offer more flexibility to participate, with polls open for most of the day on Election Day along with absentee or early voting. Nevada Republicans said they wanted certain rules in place like a requirement that participants show a government-issued ID. Trump's supporters waited in long lines Thursday. At one caucus site at a Reno-area elementary school, a line of nearly 1,000 people stretched around the corner and down the street 20 minutes after the caucuses opened. Voters in line, some of whom were wearing Trump hats and shirts, said they came out to back the former president in a contest that would give him a third straight win in the Republican presidential race. I think its about backing Trump up and giving him the support that he needs. And to let people know that were supporting him, said Heather Kirkwood, 47. Trump has long been immensely popular among Nevada Republicans, but he had other perceived advantages among the partys key figures. Nevada GOP Party Chair Michael McDonald and the states Republican National Committeeman Jim DeGraffenreid were among six Republicans in the state indicted on felony charges that they were so-called fake electors who sent certificates to Congress falsely claiming Trump won Nevada in 2020. The chairman of the Republican Party in Clark County the largest county, which is home to Las Vegas was another of the six so-called fake electors. Republicans are increasingly converging behind Trump while he faces a deluge of legal problems, including 91 criminal charges in four separate cases. Trump is flexing his influence both in Congress where Republicans rejected a border security deal after he pushed against it and at the Republican National Committee, as chairwoman Ronna McDaniel could resign in the coming weeks after he publicly questioned whether she should stay in the job. Trump still faces unprecedented jeopardy for a major candidate. A federal appeals panel ruled this week that Trump can face trial on charges that he plotted to overturn the results of the 2020 election, rejecting his claims that he is immune from prosecution. The U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday heard arguments in a case trying to keep Trump from the 2024 presidential ballot over his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss. The justices sounded broadly skeptical of the effort. WASHINGTON (AP) A special counsel report released Thursday found evidence that President Joe Biden willfully retained and shared highly classified information when he was a private citizen, including about military and foreign policy in Afghanistan, but concluded that criminal charges were not warranted. The report from special counsel Robert Hur resolves a criminal investigation that had shadowed Biden's presidency for the last year. But its bitingly critical assessment of his handling of sensitive government records and unflattering characterizations of his memory will spark fresh questions about his competency and age that cut at voters most deep-seated concerns about his candidacy for re-election. In remarks at the White House Thursday evening, Biden denied that he improperly shared classified information and angrily lashed out at Hur for questioning his mental acuity, particularly his recollection of the timing of his late son Beaus death from cancer. The searing findings will almost certainly blunt his efforts to draw contrast with Donald Trump, Biden's likely opponent in November's presidential election, over a criminal indictment charging the former president with illegally hoarding classified records at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida and refusing to return them to the government. Despite abundant differences between the cases, Trump immediately seized on the special counsel report to portray himself as a victim of a two-tiered system of justice. Yet even as Hur found evidence that Biden willfully held onto and shared with a ghostwriter highly classified information, the special counsel devoted much of his report to explaining why he did not believe the evidence met the standard for criminal charges, including a high probability that the Justice Department would not be able to prove Bidens intent beyond a reasonable doubt, citing among other things an advanced age that they said made him forgetful and the possibility of innocent explanations for the records that they could not refute. I did not share classified information, Biden insisted. "I did not share it with my ghostwriter. He added he wasn't aware how the boxes containing classified documents ended up in his garage. And in response to Hurs portrayal of him, Biden insisted to reporters that My memory is fine, and said he believes he remains the most qualified person to serve as president. How in the hell dare he raise that? Biden asked, about Hur's comments regarding his son's death, saying he didnt believe it was any of Hurs business. When asked about the report earlier Thursday in a private moment with a handful of House Democrats ahead of his speech at their suburban Virginia retreat, Biden responded angrily, according to two people familiar with his comments, saying, You think I would f forget the day my son died? The people did not want to address the matter publicly and spoke of condition of anonymity. Biden pointedly noted that he had sat for five hours of in-person interviews in the immediate aftermath of Hamas's October attack on Israel, when "I was in the middle of handling an international crisis. I just believed thats what I owed the American people so they could know no charges would be brought and the matter closed, Biden said. The investigation into Biden is separate from special counsel Jack Smiths inquiry into the handling of classified documents by Trump after Trump left the White House. Smiths team has charged Trump with illegally retaining top secret records at his Mar-a-Lago home and then obstructing government efforts to get them back. Trump has said he did nothing wrong. Hur, in his report, said there were several material distinctions between the Trump and Biden cases, noting that Trump refused to return classified documents to the government and allegedly obstructed the investigation, while Biden willfully handed them over. Hur, a former U.S. Attorney in the Trump administration, was appointed by Attorney General Merrick Garland as special counsel in January 2023 following an initial discovery by Biden staff of classified records in Washington office space. Subsequent property searches by the FBI, all coordinated voluntarily by Biden staff, that turned up additional sensitive documents from his time as vice president and senator. Hur's report said many of the documents recovered at the Penn Biden Center in Washington, in parts of Biden's Delaware home and in his Senate papers at the University of Delaware were retained by mistake. Biden could not have been prosecuted as a sitting president, but Hurs report states that he would not recommend charges against Biden regardless. We would reach the same conclusion even if Department of Justice policy did not foreclose criminal charges against a sitting president, the report said. But investigators did find evidence of willful retention and disclosure of a subset of records found in Biden's Wilmington, Delaware house, including in a garage, office and basement den. The files pertain to a troop surge in Afghanistan during the Obama administration that Biden had vigorously opposed. He kept records that documented his position, including a classified letter to Obama during the 2009 Thanksgiving holiday. Documents found in a box in Biden's Delaware garage have classification markings up to the Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information Level and other materials of great significance to him and that he appears to have personally used and accessed. Hur, though, wrote that there was a shortage of evidence" to prove that Biden placed the documents in the box and knew they were there. Some of the classified information related to Afghanistan was shared with a ghostwriter with whom he published memoirs in 2007 and 2017. As part of the probe, investigators reviewed a recording of a February 2017 conversation between Biden and his ghostwriter in which Biden can be heard saying that he had just found all the classified stuff downstairs. Prosecutors believe Bidens comment, made at a time he was renting a home in Virginia, referred to the same documents FBI agents later found in his Delaware house. Though Biden sometimes skipped over presumptively classified material while reading notebook entries to his ghostwriter, the report says, at other times he read aloud classified entries verbatim." The report said there was some evidence to suggest that Biden knew he could not keep classified handwritten notes at home after leaving office, citing his deep familiarity with the measures taken to safeguard classified information and the need for those measures to prevent harm to national security. Yet, prosecutors say, he kept notebooks containing classified information in unlocked drawers at home. He had strong motivations to do so and to ignore the rules for properly handing the classified information in his notebooks, the report said. He consulted the notebooks liberally during hours of discussions with his ghostwriter and viewed them as highly private and valued possessions with which he was unwilling to part. While the report removes legal jeopardy for the president, it is nonetheless an embarrassment for Biden, who placed competency and experience at the core of his rationale to voters to send him to the Oval Office. It says that Biden was known to remove and keep classified material from his briefing books for future use and that his staff struggled and sometimes failed to get those records back. Even so, Hur took pains to note the multiple reasons why prosecutors did not believe they could prove a criminal case beyond a reasonable doubt. Those include Bidens limited memory both during his 2017 recorded conversations with the ghostwriter and in an interview with investigators last year in which, prosecutors say, he could not immediately remember the years in which he served as vice president. Hur said it was possible Biden could have found those records at his Virginia home in 2017 and then forgotten about them soon after. Given Mr. Bidens limited precision and recall during his interviews with his ghostwriter and with our office, jurors may hesitate to place too much evidentiary weight on a single eight-word utterance to his ghostwriter about finding classified documents in Virginia, in the absence of other, more direct evidence, the report says We have also considered that, at trial, Mr. Biden would likely present himself to a jury, as he did during our interview of him, as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory, investigators wrote. In addition, prosecutors say, Biden could have plausibly believed that the notebooks were his personal property and belonged to him, even if they contained classified information. In an interview with prosecutors, the report said, Biden was emphatic with investigators that the notebooks were my property and that every president before me has done the exact same thing. Special counsels are required under Justice Department regulations to submit confidential reports to the attorney general at the conclusion of their work. Such reports are then typically made public. The dual appointments in the Biden and Trump cases were seen as a way to insulate the Justice Department from claims of bias and conflict by placing the probes in the hands of specially named prosecutors. Garland has worked assiduously to challenge Republican claims of a politicized Justice Department. He has named special counsels to investigate not only the president but also his son, Hunter, in a separate tax-and-gun prosecution that has resulted in criminal charges. But in this case, Biden's personal and White House lawyers strongly objected to the characterizations of Biden in the report and to the fact that so much derogatory information was released about an uncharged subject like the president. Bidens personal attorney Bob Bauer accused the special counsel of violating well-established norms and trashing the president. The special counsel could not refrain from investigative excess, perhaps unsurprising given the intense pressures of the current political environment. Whatever the impact of those pressures on the final report, it flouts department regulations and norms, he said in a statement. But a public outcome was basically sealed once Garland appointed a special counsel. Regulations require special counsels to produce confidential reports to the attorney general at the conclusion of their work. Those documents are then generally made public, even if they contain unflattering assessments of people not criminally charged. To explore the best and worst states for youth mental health care, MoneyGeek analyzed data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and the CDC, as well as Google trends data on searches for relevant mental health terms. The South and Northeast are leading in youth mental health care, while the Midwest struggles Key findings Top 5 states for youth mental health are clustered in the South and Northeast The Midwest has some of the worst states for youth mental health care Originally published on moneygeek.com, part of the BLOX Digital Content Exchange. Beijing Radio Television Station (BRTV) will present a spectacular New Year gala on the evening of Feb. 10, the first day of the Chinese Lunar New Year. A photo captures a festive performance staged during the recording of BRTV's Spring Festival gala. [Photo courtesy of BRTV] To showcase Beijing's recent development, particularly in culture, technology and the environment, and to immerse viewers in the lively atmosphere of the capital's residents celebrating the Spring Festival, this year's gala has moved away from the traditional format of host interludes. The gala will instead feature a series of dragon-themed short films, as 2024 is the Year of the Dragon in the Chinese zodiac. In these short films, more than 20 gala hosts from BRTV will come together as "Dragon Seekers" to embark on an impromptu city walk during the Spring Festival, exploring the streets and alleys of Beijing in search of the five most unexpected and distinctive "dragons" in the capital. The gala, already recorded, will showcase a rich array of Chinese cultural elements embodied in its performances and set designs. It will particularly highlight the local culture of Beijing, emphasizing its role as a national cultural center over many dynasties and centuries. Additionally, trendy pop culture and modern technologies will seamlessly integrate with traditional culture, creating a grand cultural mix. This integration will feature opera, rap, pop songs, dance, martial arts and even artificial intelligence robots. A photo captures a national treasure, a seated bronze dragon, borrowed from the Capital Museum, on display at the stage. [Photo courtesy of BRTV] Beijing's intangible cultural heritage will also be highlighted, with a particular focus on the city's royal and folk traditions. Heritage inheritors from Beijing will gather at the gala to present various art forms, including lacquer engraving, filigree inlay, jade carving, ivory carving, Beijing embroidery, cloisonne, palace illustration, and sugar blowing. During the gala, a national treasure from the Capital Museum will be displayed on stage a bronze dragon discovered in the palace ruins of the Jin dynasty (1115-1234), during which Beijing was the capital. This period marked the beginning of Beijing's significance as a capital city for various dynasties. The show will, of course, be star-studded, featuring artists such as Cai Guoqing, Carman Lee, Zhou Shen, Li Yuchun and Tan Weiwei, as well as comedians like Chang Yuan and Song Xiaobao. They will perform songs celebrating the era and China's prosperity, as well as share jokes and heartwarming stories inspired by significant events of the past year or everyday life. A photo captures ambassadors to China bringing their favorite dishes from their own countries to the stage for display. [Photo courtesy of BRTV] BRTV's Spring Festival gala will also serve as a platform to share Chinese stories with the world, as it has in previous years. This year, a special segment will invite ambassadors from different countries, such as Norway, Tunisia and Sri Lanka, to share their classic cuisines at the gala. The show aims to use food as a medium to showcase the openness and inclusiveness of the city that hosted both the Summer and Winter Olympics, creating a welcoming atmosphere for people from all over the world. A photo captures a jubilant performance staged during the recording of BRTV's Spring Festival gala. [Photo courtesy of BRTV] The gala will be broadcast at 7:30 p.m. (Beijing Time) on Feb. 10, accessible through its TV networks as well as online platforms. What is the NC Railroad Company? The North Carolina Railroad Company is a private corporation whose voting stock is owned by the State of North Carolina. The company manages the use of 317 miles of track and property stretching from Charlotte to the Port of Morehead City. The companys mission is to benefit North Carolina by aggressively leveraging the unique strengths and capabilities of the North Carolina Railroad Company. The company has a vision of a modernized railroad that meets the needs of the future, expanding North Carolinas competitive advantage. The North Carolina Railroad Company started the Build Ready Site (BRS) program in 2021. The program provides funding for rail-served sites to develop land and become build ready to attract new businesses to the area. Award recipients must undergo a rigorous application and site review process. Recipients can use BRS funds for land preparation (clearing/grading) and critical water/sewer extension. This innovative program encourages business investment in the state, fosters growth in local communities and expands North Carolinas competitive edge. Today Partly sunny, breezy, and noticeably colder; gusty winds add a chill. A sprinkle or flurry possible, mainly north and west. Tonight Partly cloudy, windy, and cold. Brisk winds add a chill. There could be an early flurry, especially north and west. Tomorrow Partly sunny but brisk and chilly with wind chills near or below freezing for much of the day. A sprinkle or flurry possible, mainly north and west. Two people from McDowell County will face charges in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, for the abuse of a vulnerable adult, who was pronounced dead in McDowell. On Tuesday, Jan. 30, McDowell County Sheriffs Office deputies and McDowell EMS paramedics responded to a reported cardiac arrest at a residence in Nebo. The victim, Joseph Blevins, 46, was transported and pronounced dead at Mission Hospital McDowell. Dustin Lee Suttles, 36, and Katelyn Renee Elliott, 31, both of Nebo, were responsible for the care and well-being of Blevins. The investigation revealed Suttles, Elliott and Blevins had returned to Nebo on that date from Tennessee. D'Jan Vallini, public information officer with the McDowell Sheriffs Office, said the abuse of Blevins, who was mentally challenged, occurred in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and then the three returned to McDowell County, where Blevins died. Once learning this information, the sheriffs office contacted the Pigeon Forge Police Department and has been investigating jointly with them. Pigeon Forge Police have charged Suttles and Elliott with abuse of a vulnerable adult. Both have been arrested and are awaiting extradition to Pigeon Forge, according to a news release from the McDowell Sheriffs Office. A statement from the Pigeon Forge Police said the investigation is ongoing and no further information will be released at this time. MORGANTON A man convicted of multiple counts of indecent exposure was charged again Wednesday. Tristan Douglas Coffey, 25, of 2520 Burke Smokey Creek Road, Lenoir, was charged with misdemeanor indecent exposure Wednesday, according to a copy of an arrest warrant filed at the Burke County Courthouse. Officers with the Morganton Department of Public Safety were dispatched to Walmart in the Morganton Heights Shopping Center around 9:30 a.m. Wednesday for a report of an indecent exposure, according to an arrest report from the department. The warrant said three women said Coffey exposed his penis to them inside the store. Coffey was released from prison to be on probation on Dec. 23 for convictions in 2022 of second-degree kidnapping and felony indecent exposure, according to records from the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction. That felony indecent exposure conviction stemmed from an incident where he exposed himself to a child care worker at Morganton First Church of God off Summers Road, according to a previous News Herald article. The victim was outside with kids who were waiting to be picked up by their parents when Coffey exposed himself, according to the previous article. In total, Coffey has been convicted of 12 counts of misdemeanor indecent exposure. Coffey has been convicted of exposing himself to: A U.S. Census worker as she was leaving his home after conducting the census; A woman after trying to run the woman off the road; A woman who approached his car, which was stopped on the side of the road; A woman at a car wash; A woman working at a business in Rutherford College; and A woman walking her dogs in Rutherford College. Coffeys previous conviction of felony indecent exposure required him to register as a sex offender for 30 years, according to a previous News Herald article. He appeared before a judge Thursday and was assigned Charles Bostian as his court-appointed attorney. Hes due back in court March 21. Coffeys bond for the new indecent exposure charge is $2,000 secured, according to jail records. He was held without bond on a probation violation. I've noticed that HDR mentioned United Way and maybe the Red Cross for assisting folks that were struck by the tornado in Claremont. These are both good organizations, I believe. But why has Samaritan's Purse not been mentioned? They were there cleaning up debris and whatnot. They were also giving much needed moral support. These are wonderful volunteers and any time there is a disaster, no matter what it is, they are always there! Cheryl Setzer Hickory Financiere des Professionnels Fonds d investissement inc. purchased a new position in shares of Brookfield Infrastructure Partners L.P. (NYSE:BIP Free Report) (TSE:BIP.UN) in the third quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The firm purchased 64,690 shares of the utilities providers stock, valued at approximately $1,902,000. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in BIP. Acadian Asset Management LLC raised its stake in shares of Brookfield Infrastructure Partners by 8,107.7% in the 1st quarter. Acadian Asset Management LLC now owns 1,067 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $35,000 after acquiring an additional 1,054 shares in the last quarter. Clear Street Markets LLC bought a new position in shares of Brookfield Infrastructure Partners in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $38,000. LWM Advisory Services LLC bought a new position in shares of Brookfield Infrastructure Partners in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $48,000. Householder Group Estate & Retirement Specialist LLC bought a new position in shares of Brookfield Infrastructure Partners in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $66,000. Finally, Fairfield Bush & CO. acquired a new stake in Brookfield Infrastructure Partners in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $67,000. 55.52% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Brookfield Infrastructure Partners alerts: Brookfield Infrastructure Partners Trading Up 0.7 % Shares of BIP stock traded up $0.22 on Friday, reaching $30.97. 124,716 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 447,921. The stock has a market cap of $14.21 billion, a PE ratio of 219.80 and a beta of 0.98. Brookfield Infrastructure Partners L.P. has a one year low of $21.03 and a one year high of $37.32. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.24, a current ratio of 0.54 and a quick ratio of 0.66. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $30.42 and a 200 day moving average price of $29.70. Brookfield Infrastructure Partners Increases Dividend Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 29th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, February 29th will be given a dividend of $0.405 per share. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, February 28th. This represents a $1.62 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.23%. This is an increase from Brookfield Infrastructure Partnerss previous quarterly dividend of $0.38. Brookfield Infrastructure Partnerss payout ratio is presently 1,092.94%. A number of analysts have issued reports on BIP shares. National Bank Financial lowered Brookfield Infrastructure Partners from an outperform rating to a sector perform rating in a report on Tuesday, January 30th. Royal Bank of Canada decreased their price objective on Brookfield Infrastructure Partners from $45.00 to $40.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, November 2nd. Raymond James lifted their price objective on Brookfield Infrastructure Partners from $40.00 to $44.00 and gave the stock a strong-buy rating in a report on Friday, February 2nd. National Bankshares lowered Brookfield Infrastructure Partners from an outperform rating to a sector perform rating and set a $32.00 price objective on the stock. in a report on Tuesday, January 30th. Finally, TD Securities decreased their price objective on Brookfield Infrastructure Partners from $47.00 to $46.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Friday, February 2nd. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, six have issued a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $39.11. View Our Latest Report on BIP About Brookfield Infrastructure Partners (Free Report) Brookfield Infrastructure Partners L.P. owns and operates utilities, transport, midstream, and data businesses in North and South America, Europe, and the Asia Pacific. The company's Utilities segment operates approximately 60,000 kilometers (km) of operational electricity transmission and distribution lines; 2,900 km of electricity transmission lines; 4,200 km of natural gas pipelines; 7.8 million electricity and natural gas connections; and 540,000 long-term contracted sub-metering services. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BIP? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Brookfield Infrastructure Partners L.P. (NYSE:BIP Free Report) (TSE:BIP.UN). Receive News & Ratings for Brookfield Infrastructure Partners Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Brookfield Infrastructure Partners and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Friday, Feb. 9 The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner and provide proof of vaccination. Hot dogs at McGill Baptist Church, 5300 Poplar Tent Road, will be sold along with fried bologna and barbecue sandwiches and desserts from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10 The Piedmont Farmers Market is open from 9 a.m. to noon at 518 Winecoff School Road. It features lots of local produce, meat, flowers and other products. Hot dogs at Center United Methodist Church at 1119 Union St., S., are offered on the second and fourth Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dine in and take out. Call-in orders are welcomed at 704-782-1785. A GriefShare Support Group will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Oak Grove Baptist Church, room 23. Sessions will be Saturdays through May 11. Register at GriefShare.org, use zip code 28075. The church is located at 200 Sims Parkway, Harrisburg. For more information, call 704-455-2763. Sunday, Feb. 11 A Griefshare program will be hosted by Cold Springs Global Methodist Sundays through April 21 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. for those dealing with life stresses following the loss of a loved one. For more information and to register go to griefshare.org/findagroup or call the Church office, 704-782-1811. Monday, Feb. 12 The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner. Tuesday, Feb. 13 TOPS #437 (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets every Tuesday at 10 a.m. (weigh-in begins at 9:30 a.m.) at Lakeview Baptist Church, 2532 Lane St., Kannapolis. Visitors are welcome. How Great Thou Art Drawing Class led by James Fore in a weekly drawing class 1:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall at Calvary Lutheran Church, Concord, NC 28025. All are welcome. Bring paper and pencil. Contact the church office at 704-782-6923 for more details. The Women of Mt. Mitchell Global Methodist Church will be sponsoring a pancake supper from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The church is located at 6001 Old Salisbury Concord Road, Kannapolis. For more information, call 704-933-0155. Wednesday, Feb. 14 The Sportscenter weekly Bible study will be at 11:30 a.m. at the Sportscenter 233 Country Club Drive, NE, Concord. Hosted by Pastor Debbie Frye. Centering Prayer Weekly via Zoom meets at 7:30 p.m. For the Zoom link, check the Calvary Lutheran Church Facebook page or website http://www.clconcord.org, or call the church office at 704-782-6923. How Great Thou Art Drawing Class led by James Fore in a weekly drawing class 1:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall at Calvary Lutheran Church, Concord, NC 28025. All are welcome. Bring paper and pencil. Contact the church office at 704-782-6923 for more details. Thursday, Feb. 15 Epworth United Methodist Church will have a hot dog sale from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Epworth is at 1030 Burrage Road, NE, Concord. Credit cards accepted. For deliveries, call 704-786-5500. Friday, Feb. 16 The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner and provide proof of vaccination. Hot dogs at McGill Baptist Church, 5300 Poplar Tent Road, will be sold along with fried bologna and barbecue sandwiches and desserts from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 17 The Piedmont Farmers Market is open from 9 a.m. to noon at 518 Winecoff School Road. It features lots of local produce, meat, flowers and other products. Hot dogs at Center United Methodist Church at 1119 Union St., S., are offered on the second and fourth Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dine in and take out. Call-in orders are welcomed at 704-782-1785. A GriefShare Support Group will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Oak Grove Baptist Church, room 23. Sessions will be Saturdays through May 11. Register at GriefShare.org, use zip code 28075. The church is located at 200 Sims Parkway, Harrisburg. For more information, call 704-455-2763. Sunday, Feb. 18 A Griefshare program will be hosted by Cold Springs Global Methodist Sundays through April 21 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. for those dealing with life stresses following the loss of a loved one. For more information and to register go to griefshare.org/findagroup or call the Church office, 704-782-1811. Candidates for Cabarrus County Commissioner will participate in a forum at 2:30 p.m. at Mt. Pleasant Town Hall. The forum is sponsored by the Eastern Cabarrus Historical Society and is not affiliated with the Town of Mount Pleasant, any candidate, or party. It will be moderated by The Honorable William Hamby, retired district court judge. Monday, Feb. 19 The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner. Tuesday, Feb. 20 TOPS #437 (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets every Tuesday at 10 a.m. (weigh-in begins at 9:30 a.m.) at Lakeview Baptist Church, 2532 Lane St., Kannapolis. Visitors are welcome. How Great Thou Art Drawing Class led by James Fore in a weekly drawing class 1:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall at Calvary Lutheran Church, Concord, NC 28025. All are welcome. Bring paper and pencil. Contact the church office at 704-782-6923 for more details. Wednesday, Feb. 21 The Sportscenter weekly Bible study will be at 11:30 a.m. at the Sportscenter 233 Country Club Drive, NE, Concord. Hosted by Pastor Debbie Frye. Centering Prayer Weekly via Zoom meets at 7:30 p.m. For the Zoom link, check the Calvary Lutheran Church Facebook page or website http://www.clconcord.org, or call the church office at 704-782-6923. How Great Thou Art Drawing Class led by James Fore in a weekly drawing class 1:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall at Calvary Lutheran Church, Concord, NC 28025. All are welcome. Bring paper and pencil. Contact the church office at 704-782-6923 for more details. The Cabarrus Senior Center Photo Club is alive and clicking away. If you like taking photos, come join the members on the first and third Wednesdays of the month from 1:30-3 p.m. at the Cabarrus Senior Center, 331 Corban Ave., SE, Concord, and share your photographic creativity. Whether you are a seasoned photographer or strictly amateur, all are welcome. Thursday, Feb. 22 Epworth United Methodist Church will have a hot dog sale from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Epworth is at 1030 Burrage Road, NE, Concord. Credit cards accepted. For deliveries, call 704-786-5500. Friday, Feb. 23 The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner and provide proof of vaccination. Hot dogs at McGill Baptist Church, 5300 Poplar Tent Road, will be sold along with fried bologna and barbecue sandwiches and desserts from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24 The Piedmont Farmers Market is open from 9 a.m. to noon at 518 Winecoff School Road. It features lots of local produce, meat, flowers and other products. Hot dogs at Center United Methodist Church at 1119 Union St., S., are offered on the second and fourth Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dine in and take out. Call-in orders are welcomed at 704-782-1785. A GriefShare Support Group will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Oak Grove Baptist Church, room 23. Sessions will be Saturdays through May 11. Register at GriefShare.org, use zip code 28075. The church is located at 200 Sims Parkway, Harrisburg. For more information, call 704-455-2763. Sunday, Feb. 25 A Griefshare program will be hosted by Cold Springs Global Methodist Sundays through April 21 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. for those dealing with life stresses following the loss of a loved one. For more information and to register go to griefshare.org/findagroup or call the Church office, 704-782-1811. The Houston Preaching Mission features Dr. Luke Powery, Dean of the Chapel and Professor of Homiletics and African and African American Studies at Duke University, as the guest preacher at Central United Methodist Church. Sunday School classes will meet Powell in the Youth Room at 9:30 a.m. and he will speak at the 10:30 a.m. worship service. A congregational meal of baked chicken, green beans, macaroni and cheese, green salad, roll and sheet cake will be catered by Second Course. Reservaions are requested for the meal. Does your community group or nonprofit agency have an upcoming event that would be of interest to the public? Email it to mplemmons@independenttribune.com. Mutual of America Capital Management LLC lessened its stake in shares of Humana Inc. (NYSE:HUM Free Report) by 3.0% during the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 19,830 shares of the insurance providers stock after selling 622 shares during the period. Mutual of America Capital Management LLCs holdings in Humana were worth $9,648,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Sunbelt Securities Inc. acquired a new stake in Humana during the 1st quarter worth about $28,000. WFA of San Diego LLC acquired a new stake in Humana during the 2nd quarter worth about $29,000. Larson Financial Group LLC raised its holdings in Humana by 81.0% during the 2nd quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC now owns 76 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $34,000 after buying an additional 34 shares during the period. Baystate Wealth Management LLC raised its holdings in Humana by 84.1% during the 2nd quarter. Baystate Wealth Management LLC now owns 81 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $37,000 after buying an additional 37 shares during the period. Finally, Mendota Financial Group LLC acquired a new stake in Humana during the 2nd quarter worth about $38,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 91.86% of the companys stock. Get Humana alerts: Humana Price Performance NYSE:HUM traded down $0.75 during trading hours on Friday, reaching $367.05. The company had a trading volume of 378,080 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,685,132. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $437.36 and a two-hundred day moving average of $471.85. Humana Inc. has a one year low of $342.69 and a one year high of $541.21. The firm has a market capitalization of $45.19 billion, a PE ratio of 18.55, a PEG ratio of 2.16 and a beta of 0.46. The company has a quick ratio of 1.37, a current ratio of 1.59 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.63. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Humana ( NYSE:HUM Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, January 25th. The insurance provider reported ($0.11) earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.76 by ($0.87). Humana had a net margin of 2.34% and a return on equity of 19.44%. The company had revenue of $26.46 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $25.47 billion. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $1.62 earnings per share. The businesss revenue was up 17.9% on a year-over-year basis. Analysts forecast that Humana Inc. will post 16.04 earnings per share for the current year. Several equities analysts have weighed in on the company. StockNews.com cut Humana from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, January 26th. Stephens lowered their target price on Humana from $550.00 to $430.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, January 26th. Wells Fargo & Company lowered their target price on Humana from $465.00 to $413.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, January 30th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft cut Humana from a buy rating to a hold rating and lowered their target price for the company from $595.00 to $360.00 in a research note on Thursday, January 25th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group lowered their target price on Humana from $515.00 to $450.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, January 26th. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $506.72. Read Our Latest Analysis on Humana About Humana (Free Report) Humana Inc, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a health and well-being company in the United States. It operates through two segments, Insurance and CenterWell. The company offers medical and supplemental benefit plans to individuals. It also has a contract with Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to administer the Limited Income Newly Eligible Transition prescription drug plan program; and contracts with various states to provide Medicaid, dual eligible, and long-term support services benefits. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding HUM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Humana Inc. (NYSE:HUM Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Humana Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Humana and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. CONCORD The Cabarrus County Sheriffs Office received a report Wednesday, Feb. 7, from the Department of Social Services (DSS) involving a juvenile who was assaulted by a staff member at Stonewall Jackson (Cabarrus Youth Development Center), according to a press release from Sheriff Van Shaw. The Cabarrus County Sheriffs Office completed a thorough investigation in cooperation with Director Peter Brown and facility administration. The employee was identified as Dana Lassiter, who has been employed since 2017. After consultation with the Cabarrus County District Attorneys Office, Lassiter was charged with N.C.G.S 14-32.4B Assault by Strangulation and brought before the magistrate, where he was placed in the Cabarrus County Detention Center under a $5,000 bond. The N.C. Department of Public Safety, which operates the Cabarrus Youth Development Center, issued this statement: The Department of Public Safety has zero tolerance for any staff involved in any illegal activity and is cooperating fully with law enforcement. The safety of youth and staff in our juvenile facilities is of the highest importance to the Division of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. The Department has many hard-working professionals and it takes staff arrests very seriously. These allegations are under internal investigation as well. FORT FISHER Saving species at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher (NCAFF) means partnerships and collaborations throughout the world, including Hong Kong. A NCAFF team of animal care experts transported two Asian small-clawed otters, Milli and Shiny from New York to North Carolina, as the final leg of their long journey from Hong Kong on Jan. 22. Milli, a female, and Shiny, a male, are among pups born at Ocean Park Hong Kong in 2018 and 2020 to parents Si and Fun. Ocean Park animal experts provided shelter and care for Si and Fun in April 2018 after they were confiscated by the Hong Kong Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD). Both NCAFF and Ocean Park are accredited through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), meeting the highest standards in animal care and welfare. Shiny Caring for these Asian small-clawed otters advances the Aquariums goals to save this species, as they are among the nearly 300 programs in the AZA Species Survival Plan (SSP) Program. The SSP identifies population goals and breeding recommendations to manage a genetically diverse, demographically varied, and biologically sound population. Bringing Milli and Shiny to the US greatly enhances the ability of the SSP to achieve populations goals for Asian small-clawed otters. While AZA experts along with NCAFF strategize how to best support the well-being of Milli and Shiny, the Aquarium team is caring for them behind the scenes. Milli may stay at NCAFF, while Shiny will move to another AZA accredited zoo or aquarium. The otters began a 30-day quarantine when they arrived at NCAFF. Milli Although Milli and Shiny will not be visible to our public, they are receiving individual attention to ensure they are adjusting well and that we are meeting all their physical and behavioral needs. We are honored to care for them while we work with other zoos and aquariums and the SSP to make decisions on the best home for them, said Shannon Anderson, lead otter keeper, NCAFF. The story of Milli and Shiny underscores the importance of the work that both Ocean Park Hong Kong and the NCAFF are doing every day to save this species. One of the threats to Asian small-clawed otters is the illegal pet trade. Native to Indonesia, southern China, southern India, Southeast Asia, and the Philippines, they are the smallest of the otter species and listed as vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Natures Red List of Threatened Species. Other threats leading to their population decline are residential and commercial development, deforestation, pollution, climate change, and poaching. This collaborative effort between Ocean Park and the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher aligns with the shared goal of conservation and promoting the well-being of these amazing otters, said Elke Wu, Assistant Curator of Zoological Operations Waterfront. We are optimistic that Milli and Shiny will thrive in their new home and make valuable contributions to the breeding program, ultimately helping to secure the future of their species. Otters journey: International transport To ensure success of the otters journey, NCAFF staff worked in collaboration with a global animal transport company that specializes in the international transport of animals. The otters are listed as Appendix 1 with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) which provides the greatest level of trade protection for this species that is threatened with extinction. This status requires special permits, a veterinary exam, and flight arrangements for the animals to clear US customs and join the Aquarium collection as part of the SSP. NCAFF otters Visitors are already familiar with Asian small-clawed otters at the Aquarium with a family of seven and a second family of two delighting all who peek in on them in Otters on the Edge. The family of seven is a success story for the Aquariums work in the SSP, with parents Leia and Quincy having two litters of three pups in less than a year in May 2022 and January 2023. One of the pups, Mae, showed signs of being ready to leave the nest, and the Aquarium transported her to another AZA accredited facility to be a companion to a solo male. Continuing to work with the SSP, we are focused on caring for these new otters and supporting their long-term success as we all work collaboratively to achieve population goals, said Ryan McAlarney, husbandry curator, NCAFF. What can individuals do? Buy Bird Friendly coffeeits produced on farms with a shade cover that provides important habitat for different species, preventing deforestation and destruction of homes for animals like Asian small-clawed otters. Dont ever support illegally traded wild animals as pets. Think before buying furs. Support Aquarium conservation priorities by visiting North Carolina Aquarium Society. More green actions For the Aquarium, the most important takeaways are that individual actions can make a difference to provide a brighter future. Some green steps that anyone can take are switching from single-use plastics to reusable water bottles, shopping bags and straws. More sustainability information is available at Green and Getting Greener. About the N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is just south of Kure Beach, a short drive from Wilmington, on U.S. 421. The site is less than a mile from the Fort Fisher ferry terminal. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission: $12.95 ages 13-61; $10.95 children ages 3-12; $11.95 seniors (62 and older) and military with valid identification; EBT card holders: $3. Free admission for children 2 and younger and N.C. Aquarium Society members and N.C. Zoo members. Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, delivers a speech at a Spring Festival reception at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 8, 2024. The CPC Central Committee and the State Council held the reception on Thursday in Beijing. [Xinhua/Ju Peng] BEIJING, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) Chinese President Xi Jinping, on behalf of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and the State Council, extended Spring Festival greetings to all Chinese Thursday at a reception in Beijing. Xi, also general secretary of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, delivered a speech at the gathering at the Great Hall of the People, greeting Chinese people of all ethnic groups, compatriots in Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, and overseas Chinese. The outgoing Year of the Rabbit marked the beginning of the full implementation of the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress on all fronts, Xi said, noting that the country faced an exceptionally complicated international environment and arduous tasks of reform, development, and maintaining stability. "We pooled strength from Chinese modernization, kept in mind both domestic and international imperatives, overcame multiple difficulties and challenges, and made solid progress on a new journey toward building China into a modern socialist country in all respects," Xi said. Li Qiang presided over the reception. Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi and Han Zheng were also present at the event. Over the past year, China adhered to the general principle of seeking progress while maintaining stability and promoted economic recovery, Xi said. Listing the progress made, Xi said the country's total grain output reached a new high, employment and prices have been kept generally stable, and breakthroughs were made in scientific and technological innovation. Reform and opening up continued to deepen in China, a new round of reform of Party and state institutions has been basically completed, the country's ecological environment continued to improve, and new steps have been taken on modernizing national defense and the armed forces, he said. Xi also praised deepened efforts on exercising full and rigorous Party self-governance and fighting corruption. By putting the people first, authorities worked hard to address the pressing difficulties and problems that concerned people most, and made all-out efforts in responding to natural disasters and advancing post-disaster recovery and reconstruction, thus maintaining overall social stability, Xi said. "We actively support Hong Kong and Macao in better integrating into the overall situation of national development, firmly oppose separatist acts of 'Taiwan independence' and interference by external forces, and vigorously defend our country's sovereignty, security and development interests," Xi said. Lauding China's solid efforts on advancing major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics, Xi said the country has added certainty and positive energy to a world of change and disorder. Xi said that looking back at all the hard work over the past year, we have more deeply realized that building a strong country and realizing national rejuvenation on all fronts through a Chinese path to modernization is not only a bright road for the Chinese people to pursue a better and happy life, but also a just way to promote world peace and development. Xi pointed out that the year 2024 marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, and is a key year for achieving the goals and tasks in the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025). He stressed the need to adhere to the general tone of the work that seeks progress while maintaining stability, effectively enhance economic vitality, prevent and resolve risks, improve social expectations, consolidate and enhance the positive trend of economic recovery, continue to improve people's livelihood and well-being, as well as maintain overall social harmony and stability. Underscoring the need to deepen reform across the board, Xi said efforts must be made to encourage entrepreneurship and creativity among all members of society, injecting great vigor into Chinese modernization. As the totem of the Chinese nation, dragon is deemed strong, fearless and benevolent, Xi noted. Xi highlighted that dragon not only embodies the spirit of ceaselessly pursuing self-improvement, hard work and enterprise of the Chinese nation for 5,000 years, but also demonstrates the determination and aspiration of hundreds of millions of Chinese people to build China into a strong country and realize national rejuvenation. Xi expressed the hope that in the Year of the Dragon, all Chinese people will pioneer and forge ahead with great endeavor and dedication, collectively writing a new chapter in advancing Chinese modernization. This year's Spring Festival, or the Chinese Lunar New Year, falls on Feb. 10. Party and state leaders Xi Jinping, Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi and Han Zheng attend a Spring Festival reception at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 8, 2024. The CPC Central Committee and the State Council held the reception on Thursday in Beijing. [Xinhua/Shen Hong] Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, gestures as he attends a Spring Festival reception at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 8, 2024. The CPC Central Committee and the State Council held the reception on Thursday in Beijing. [Xinhua/Ju Peng] Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, delivers a speech at a Spring Festival reception at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 8, 2024. The CPC Central Committee and the State Council held the reception on Thursday in Beijing. [Xinhua/Shen Hong] Chinese Premier Li Qiang presides over a Spring Festival reception at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 8, 2024. The Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council held the reception on Thursday in Beijing. [Xinhua/Ju Peng] (Source: Xinhua) Weather Alert ...Elevated Fire Danger Today and Tuesday... ...Hard Freeze Expected Tonight... The combination of very dry air and northwest winds gusting up to 20 mph will create an elevated risk of uncontrolled fire spread this afternoon. Relative humidity values will fall to 20 to 35%, with the lowest humidity levels over the Ozark Foothills of southeast Missouri. A more substantial fire danger is expected Tuesday, as southwest winds increase significantly, with gusts of 25 to 40 mph forecast Tuesday afternoon. Relative humidity values Tuesday afternoon will fall to 25 to 35%. If you are planning outdoor burning today and Tuesday, use extra caution and have fire suppression equipment ready. Tonight, very cold and dry surface high pressure will allow temperatures to drop into the middle and upper 20s throughout the region. Although the growing season has not officially started, tender vegetation could be impacted by these cold temperatures. Please take necessary actions to protect any tender vegetation tonight. The Salvation Army Womens Auxiliary of Cabarrus and Stanly Counties (SAWA) along with SHOE SHOW, INC. will again be hosting a Souper Bowl 2024 fundraiser on Tuesday, Feb. 20. This years Souper Bowl will be held at Central United Methodist Church, 30 Union St., N., Concord, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Eat in or take out. Tickets are $10 each and include soup, crackers, cookies and beverage. Thanks to the restaurants who generously donate the soup and other necessities, there is always a good variety from which to choose. Also on-site, the womens auxiliary will be having a bake sale and a treasure trove sale. Tickets will be available in advance at the Salvation Army office, 216 Patterson Ave., SE, Concord, or at the door the day of the event. The general parking entrance for the event is off Killarney and the handicapped parking off Church Street. The theme of this years Souper Bowl is Friends Serving Friends, because that is who the Salvation Army, the womens auxiliary and the volunteers who support them in this effort are, and what they do, and how they regard the community they serve. All proceeds benefit The Salvation Army of Cabarrus and Stanly counties and help support programs including social services, Christmas food boxes, Silver Wings (senior Christmas program), Angel Tree gifts and clothing, League of Mercy (nursing home residents), the food pantry, scholarships, community services, vacation Bible school and the Tucker Center of Hope shelter. The need for Salvation Army services is a constant, and so must be the support. The success of the Souper Bowl fundraiser determines how much can be accomplished next year. Souper Bowl is a community event, from the restaurants and other businesses who donate, to the volunteers who serve and support, to the patrons who come not only to enjoy a good lunch, but to meet friends and neighbors for conversation and fellowship. Souper Bowl is sponsored by SHOE SHOW, INC. and other area businesses and individuals. Donations of any size in support of SAWA programs will be gratefully accepted. Individuals or businesses can obtain more information about making monetary or other donations (soup, snacks, beverages and sale items) in advance for this benefit by calling 704-782-7822. The Salvation Army kettle so familiar at Christmas will be available at the luncheon for donations, as well. In case of inclement weather, the date will be Tuesday, Feb. 27. If postponement is required to keep everyone safe, information will be posted on the website on Monday, Feb. 19, at https://sawaconcordnc.org/ or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SAWAofConcordNC or on Nextdoor: https://nextdoor.com/news_feed Alex Chambers: When Iryna Voloshyna started a Slavic Choir at Indiana University in 2021, she didn't realize it would be a local expression of a global political situation. But then, in February of '22, Russia invaded Ukraine. Iryna Voloshyna: All of a sudden we became in high demand, which was good, so we narrowed our program to only a Ukrainian repertoire. Alex Chambers: We'll hear how the choir turned into a mission for Voloshyna after the invasion, about a choir she was in during Russia's last invasion, and more. Then, comedian E.J. Masicampo tells us how his divorce made him a comedian. That's all coming up after this. Alex Chambers: Welcome to Inner States. I'm Alex Chambers. The Indiana Slavic Choir, based here in Bloomington, performs folk songs about Ukrainian cultural integrity and sovereignty over their land. Producer Violet Baron sat down with its founder, Iryna Voloshyna, this past summer to hear how cultural heritage becomes a point of contention in war. Iryna Voloshyna: Physically I was, like, not able to sing. I just shut down, you know. I thought that, well, I'm here, I cannot physically be there in Ukraine and help people the way that they might probably need it more, but if I have this opportunity to reach international audiences and they listen to me, then I'll do this. Then this is my mission. It's all I can do and somebody has to do it. Indiana Slavic Choir: [SINGING] [FOREIGN DIALOGUE] Iryna Voloshyna: Hi, my name is Iryna Voloshyna and I'm a third year PhD student at the Department of Folklore and Ethnomusicology. I call myself a founding artistic director of Indiana Slavic Choir. Violet Baron: And actually we know each other. We were both students in the folklore department and we've been friends since that time. Iryna Voloshyna: I came to Bloomington. I joined IU in 2020, so that was during the pandemic. I did meet some people, but I felt like I really needed the community of people who like to sing together. I wanted to sing Ukrainian or Slavic folk music and I understand that we are in Indiana and we probably don't have that many people who know that tradition well, so I thought, well, I'll then teach people how to do that. We have songs that have between two and five parts. My method of teaching is we don't use sheet music. I teach the way I was taught by elderly people in the villages in Ukraine, so they did not have music education at all. I learned that music by ear and now I teach it by ear as well. Indiana Slavic Choir: [SINGING] [FOREIGN DIALOGUE] Iryna Voloshyna: So, we sing a cappella, mostly polyphony, and also the timbre of voice is very specific. So, it's called open throat, in Ukrainian it's sometimes called bilyi holos, like, "white voice." Indiana Slavic Choir: [SINGING] [FOREIGN DIALOGUE] Iryna Voloshyna: And now we have, like, a solid group of about 20 people, 20 members. We decided to call it Indiana Slavic Choir to make it more inclusive, because we know that we have students and faculty who are interested in the entire region of Eastern Europe and it's in fact diverse. Violet Baron: Iryna started the choir in 2021. In February 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine. It was shattering for Iryna who watched the events from Bloomington. Iryna Voloshyna: I remember on February 25th, we were supposed to have a performance with an Estonian group, but the invasion was just so shocking to me, I just could not imagine being on the stage or even around other people. So, I remember, I took some time off from ensemble, because just physically, well, obviously I was just devastated, and I could not sleep, you know, so that was just too painful. And I remember that, well, a few weeks passed and I realized that I have a responsibility. I have a community of people who, like, respect my state but also, like, they rely on me. The only genre that I found that was, like, relevant to me at that moment was the folk sounds, so they are religious songs that are sung during the land and that was essentially the appropriate moment. It was, like, March and April. Indiana Slavic Choir: [SINGING] [FOREIGN DIALOGUE] Iryna Voloshyna: So, these songs are essentially about repelling, about the mortality of people. Like, they give the space to think about sins, how we are sinful and what we can do for salvation of our soul. Indiana Slavic Choir: [SINGING] [FOREIGN DIALOGUE] Iryna Voloshyna: It spoke to me at the time and I remember, I came back. I announced that, okay, we are going to have a rehearsal and I brought one of the songs to that rehearsal. So, it sounds kind of like a prayer, really beautiful. We learned it and we've been using it a lot since then. Violet Baron: Another thing that happened after the war started was a new awareness of an interest in Ukrainian culture. Suddenly, people in the U.S. wanted to support Ukraine in whatever way they could. One way was by highlighting its culture and its music. Iryna Voloshyna: All of a sudden, we became in high demand, which was good. So, we narrowed our program to,like, only Ukrainian repertoire and that sound, that prayers song was one of our key songs, also a few patriotic songs and a few, like, lyrical songs too. There were a lot of events at REI on campus, conferences, receptions, or some other events where we would be invited to sing. I also hosted a singing workshop with Lotus Arts Foundation. We collected some donations that I then sent to my friend from Khmelnytskyi, from my home town. She is a cellist at the Symphony Orchestra and one of their members of the orchestra was going to war, so they were raising money to get equipment for him. So, it's just another, like, really recent example of how I can not only raise awareness with my music, but could also raise money for the good cause. Violet Baron: In those early months, the choir felt like a way to resist the invasion from far away. Iryna Voloshyna: It's a really good community of people who gathered around this idea of singing together. Several people told me that it's the highlight of their week and it was just so good to hear that, that it's other people actually, like, who have jobs and families and other responsibilities just are willing to come on Friday afternoon and sing, or sometimes other days when we have shows. I felt that people really saw the value in what we're doing. Violet Baron: Iryna also helped with an emergency effort to preserve and protect Ukraine's archives of heritage and culture, another thing that was at risk once Russia invaded. If you want to share, what was life like for you in those two months? You said you were not sleeping well and I remember partly it was because you were staying up all night, right, talking to people over there, helping people connect with each other, connect with a safe place to go. Iryna Voloshyna: I also was in touch with my friends and colleagues, folklorists, and ethnomusicologists and museum and heritage scholars. So, they reached out to me and they were really worried about their archives, the digital archives of traditional music and heritage for Ukraine. So, together with the American Folklore Society that is based at the Department of Folklore and Ethnomusicology at IU, we created a Google folder where people could upload their archives so that they are safely stored there in case the archives are damaged or destroyed or attacked in cyber-attack or hacked, and that also happened, or looted or anything happens, then at least a copy would be in a safe place. Violet Baron: Why is preserving the heritage, the digital heritage, so important? Why would that be something that you need to protect now? Iryna Voloshyna: Well, as we all know, one of the justifications of Putin's invasion was denazification of Ukraine and it's kind of old news to us. Empires attempt to call national liberation movements, like, aggressive, ultra-nationalist and all that, right? So, that label has been on Ukraine for centuries and just physically destroying culture, and by that I mean artists, musicians, writers, clergy, intellectuals, scholars, so that has been a practice for centuries. And the fact that he phrased that, "We need to denazify and demilitarize Ukraine," so denazification means erasing a national identity of Ukrainians by destroying people physically and by destroying the heritage sites also, like museums, churches, theaters and other places, libraries too, schools, right? Many people felt that that was a direct aggression against Ukrainian identity, Ukrainian culture. So, preserving archives felt like a very important mission and still does. Violet Baron: Right. Yeah, I think it goes back kind of again to what was beginning to happen in the present day with the Euromaidan, right? But it was in your generation, and the slightly younger generations where they moved as a country to Ukrainian as the only dominant language, right? Iryna Voloshyna: Well, I grew up in a Ukrainian-speaking family, so I know Russian because Ukraine has been russified for centuries. The Ukrainian language was banned multiple times by Russian empires, U.S.S.R. The fact that we are bilingual is just a colonial legacy. It was not by choice for many people. But, yes, especially after the Euromaidan revolution, many people switched to Ukrainian again as a political act because they realized the reason why it happened so that they speak Russian, even if it's a language in the family. Violet Baron: The songs are evidence of Ukraine's national identity and sovereignty as a people. Throughout its history, there's always been this character and this fight. Indiana Slavic Choir: [SINGING] [FOREIGN DIALOGUE] Iryna Voloshyna: Actually, one of the songs that we have in our repertoire, [FOREIGN DIALOGUE], which means that Ukraine has been asleep for a while. So, it compares Ukraine to a bird that was asleep and then it woke up and it remembered that it was once free. Indiana Slavic Choir: [SINGING] [FOREIGN DIALOGUE] Iryna Voloshyna: So, it spread its wings and united Ukrainian people under its wings. A really beautiful song. What's interesting about it is that it is about 100 years old, so we are talking about, like, 1920s maybe, 1910s, 1920s. And it's a song from the Ukrainian insurgent army, so, that was a military unit who fought against Russian occupation of Ukraine, so, that was in the period between fall of the Russian empire and the U.S.S.R. So, this song itself, among many others, is a living proof of how long this war has been going on really for many centuries. So, I and many of my fellow Ukrainians agree that this is not Putin's war. Like, he is just a product of his, I don't know, nation, empire, but this has been going on for centuries, for centuries. Iryna Voloshyna: So, if that's what we can do to give the arguments from the oral tradition from the songs, that, hey, here is what people were singing about 100 years ago and we are singing about the same enemy, literally. So, that in itself says something about the importance of this Ukrainian resistance that's happening now. Violet Baron: Mm-hmm. And in all of the different forms that it takes. It's almost as if folklore is significant. Iryna Voloshyna: It totally is. It's also very applicable. Violet Baron: Mm-hmm. Iryna Voloshyna: Even if we have older songs about the war between Cossacks and the Turks or the Poles, or we have these genres of soldiers' songs, right, or conscripts' songs, they are very relevant. We learned a song about a mother who is sending her son to a war. How relevant is that, you know? And that song is several hundred years old from Sumy region, that is bordering Russia and is under constant shelling. So, yeah, folklore is relevant. Alex Chambers: All right, it's time for a break. Producer Violet Baron is talking with Iryna Voloshyna, who started the Indiana Slavic Choir, which has been singing in support of Ukraine since Russia's invasion. This isn't Voloshyna's first time singing for Ukrainian independence. When Russia invaded in 2014, she was part of a choir in Ukraine that raised money to fight for independence. We'll hear about that after the break. Alex Chambers: Welcome back to Inner States. Producer Violet Baron is talking with the founder of the Indiana Slavic Choir, Iryna Voloshyna. Let's get back to it. Violet Baron: From what you've told me, there's often been a political dimension to when and where you sing. I remember you telling me around the 2014 war, you would go around and sing with your group. Can you tell me a little bit about that? Iryna Voloshyna: Absolutely. So that Euromaidan Revolution was really shocking to all Ukrainians. It was just unheard of to see how civilians were being shot on the main streets and squares in Kyiv. Then the annexation of Crimea happened, and then the invasion of the Donbas region, so that's really the beginning of Russian invasion to Ukraine. A lot of people volunteered to go and fight, or were drafted. There were lots of needs in society. Some people I know went to war, so it was a common practice to raise money, and to help people with ammunition, with life-proof jackets, helmets, and other things, just to essentially save their lives and protect them. Iryna Voloshyna: Our ensemble, just like many other musicians and artists I know, we would raise money, doing some charity events, and it didn't have to be something extraordinary. We would just sing on the main street in Khmelnytskyi, and just have a box for donations, and raise money. We had a guy in our ensemble who sang with us for a while, and then he went to Donbas to fight, so we raised some money for him, too. We also went to some festivals to sing, and we would donate our compensation to this cause, so that was not uncommon. Violet Baron: Why do you think that the singing could be a tool for raising money? Why was this something that you could give, and people wanted to receive for Ukraine? Iryna Voloshyna: Well, because we sing Ukrainian traditional music, and the lyrics talk about the heroic past of Ukrainians. We have religious songs; we have songs from traditions that were banned by the Soviets and the Russians. This music is, in itself, an act of resistance, so it feels very natural to connect this music with the ongoing resistance that's happening in Ukraine. Violet Baron: So Iryna found herself singing in choirs as a means of protest, both in Ukraine in 2014, and in the U.S. in 2022, but she says they felt like worlds apart. Iryna Voloshyna: Here it's very different, because in Khmelnytskyi, people understand that it's their homeland, and they are protecting their own homeland, or donating money to protect those who protect it. Here, there's so much propaganda everywhere. We don't have a political agenda necessarily, but the music becomes political, right? I think it's very important to do that in places like Indiana. Violet Baron: This summer, Iryna went to Ukraine for the first time since the war began. Iryna Voloshyna: It was really emotional to me, because until then my experience of living through the war was online, essentially. Reading the news online, watching the news online, or talking to my family online. It was very important for me to go and just-- well, see my family, of course, but also see what life is there. The war that started in 2014 was in Donbas region, so it was very localized. This time, you cannot ignore the war. I flew to Krakow, in Poland, as we cannot fly into Ukraine now because it is too dangerous when the missiles are flying, and also many airports are bombed or destroyed, and unsafe. Iryna Voloshyna: I flew to Poland, and I took a bus to go to Ukraine. I crossed the border in the middle of the night. All the lights, everywhere, are off, just to prevent being bombed and hide any movement of traffic. When I was on the bus going to my hometown Khmelnytskyi, we were passing by smaller villages and towns. Usually in Ukraine we have cemeteries outside villages and towns, and often along the highways, but nowadays when a hero falls, they are buried in the cemetery, and their grave is marked with a Ukrainian flag. It was really heartbreaking to see new graves with new flags waving, and even in small villages, you definitely see one, or two, or three, or five. In bigger cities, it's a much bigger number. Iryna Voloshyna: Air raid sirens are very scary, because you know that the missile is flying, and somebody will probably die. This is a really, real experience that I could not have imagined until I experienced it. I had to hide in bomb shelters several times. Just the week after I arrived, I woke up from loud explosions, and my house was shaking. At 4 a.m. we had a missile strike to one of the objects in my hometown, Khmelnytskyi. It was very scary. You cannot describe it. You know that you can die at any moment. That's a very strong feeling. Iryna Voloshyna: Overall, I was just astonished by the resilience of the Ukrainian people, how despite everything; all the horrors, all the losses, everything, they are trying to live a normal life, they are trying to enjoy life, and this joy for life, it comes alongside the fear to lose your life. So, that was something incredible, really, how people are still trying to look pretty, or just really value every moment, or they are trying to really, truly enjoy the time with family. The meaning of very routine things has changed. That was really important to feel, I guess. Iryna Voloshyna: So now that I'm back, after my trip to Ukraine and a few other places in Europe, I just want to keep this feeling of solidarity with my people, and it has re-inspired me to keep talking about it, because it's kind of fading out in the news. People are thinking, "Oh, yeah, that war? Still happening? Yeah. Okay." But this is the life for millions of people affected. I don't have any solid plans for the future, but I'm just still digesting my emotions from the trip. Violet Baron: In late April, I watched the choir perform in a collaboration with another Ukrainian folk music ensemble, who came to town for the event. Iryna Voloshyna: Women's Bandura Ensemble is very unique because it's the first women's ensemble, who play Bandura in North America, I think, and its members are from all over the place. We had people drive or fly from Detroit, Chicago, Cleveland, New Jersey, New York, Toronto. Violet Baron: And these are all places with diasporic Ukrainian populations? Iryna Voloshyna: Yes, yes. Violet Baron: They partnered with the ensemble to host a open rehearsal, so that the public could learn about both groups and raise awareness for Ukraine. Iryna Voloshyna: People were able to ask questions, to touch an instrument if they wanted to, and just to observe this rehearsal in a more informal setting. And then the next day, on Sunday, we had a performance at a church in Indianapolis. Also, people came from Ukrainian community or not, and that was also a way, as usual, to raise awareness and raise the money for humanitarian help. Iryna Voloshyna: It was this synergy of just emotions, and an exchange of energy. We do work in slightly different styles, I would say, but that just showed the diversity of Ukrainian culture. Violet Baron: Do you know what's next for the choir? Is there any succession plan for the leadership? Do you think it will continue? Iryna Voloshyna: I think it will continue, because I value the community that was formed, and it's really hard to build that connection with people, and it's really easy to lose it. So yes, I have some travel plans for this semester, but also,I'm sure that we will figure something out. We'll take turns leading the ensemble. I think it would be a great practice for some of our members. I don't have a concrete plan yet, but I'm sure that we will figure it out. Violet Baron: You can follow the choir on Instagram at @iu_slavic_choir. Alex Chambers: That story was produced by Violet Baron. Violet recently moved on from WFIU to become the Executive Director of Long Island Traditions. That's a non-profit, supporting folk and traditional arts and artists in New York. Wishing you luck in your new role, Violet. Hope it goes great. Alex Chambers: Okay, it's time for another break, and then we'll hear from a comedian about what he really meant when he told his future wife he loved nature. Stay with us. Alex Chambers: So, I've done a number of stories on Inner States about marriage. There was the story about the couple who had been married for 72 years and just had a really nice life together. There was also the story about the couple who, also, has been married for quite a while now, and decided, when they had their wedding, to get married using puppets. These are happy stories, but they're happy marriage stories and, you know, I think, usually, when we think of marriage stories, we think happy. Alex Chambers: Divorce stories, on the other hand, we don't tend to think happy, and I've been wanting to get some good divorce stories on the show as well. But happy divorce stories are, apparently, a little harder to find. But I am determined. One of these days we are-- Avi Forrest: Alex, Alex, I've got your story finally, I had to go all the way to Prague, but I have a story on divorce. Alex Chambers: Oh, my god, Avi, that's great. Avi Forrest: Yes, it was amazing. Alex Chambers: Wait, so you went to Prague, how was it? Avi Forrest: Oh-- Avi Forrest: Ooh, my favorite part was the Metropolitan Area, which was 192 square miles. Alex Chambers: Wow, sounds lovely. Avi Forrest: Yes, it was amazing. I know it was a massive expense, but, really, it was the only way I could properly do this story about divorce, and about EJ. Alex Chambers: What do you like about EJ? Avi Forrest: Honestly, he's just a really cool dude. He's a research psychologist but also a comedian. He is divorced, but he has kids, and he just has a lot of interesting reflections on comedy. Alex Chambers: Cool. Let's get to it. Avi Forrest: Awesome, let's do it. Avi Forrest: Hey there, welcome to a small series called The Comedians, where we sit down with various funny people and talk about things from their perspective. EJ Masicampo: Whenever I write a joke I've, basically, got a hypothesis, which is that this is going to make people laugh, and if they don't, well, that was not a supportive hypothesis. Avi Forrest: This time, we have comedian EJ Masicampo, who's a researcher, a dad, and just a really cool person. EJ Masicampo: I'm a psychology professor by day, and I'm on a research sabbatical this semester so I was in London. And, on top of that, I decided to do some traveling while I'm out here, doing a bunch of shows all over Europe. So, yes, I've been, you know, doing psychology writing during the day and then hanging out and doing comedy shows at night. EJ Masicampo: I feel like the divorce is one of the best things to ever have happened to me. EJ Masicampo: And, it was her idea, like, I did not see it coming at all. EJ Masicampo: And, I would never have left her, but I'm so grateful that she ended it. EJ Masicampo: I mean, I started comedy pretty late in life, I'd been a professor for close to ten years, and I was married, and she and I had two kids together, I was very enmeshed in, you know, family life, and, I didn't know at the time, but we were going through the process of splitting up, so we started spending a lot more time apart, and, obviously, I was just needing a new hobby, because I suddenly found I had a lot more time on my hands. EJ Masicampo: I'm a real passive, I tend to put other people first. EJ Masicampo: So, I spent the whole 12 years of our relationship doing what she liked to do. We used to go hiking all the time because she loved the outdoors, which, early on in the relationship, I told her I also loved the outdoors. But, you know, I meant from like a nice deck or, you know, looking at the outdoors from a cool brewery window or something. EJ Masicampo: I haven't gone camping or hiking once in the three years since we divorced. Avi Forrest: And, you said you're glad she ended it? EJ Masicampo: Yes, I mean, for one, I would never have started comedy if she didn't end it. EJ Masicampo: So, yes, something that bothered me was, I had that same experience of getting divorced and feeling like people felt sorry for me, or looked down on me because I got divorced, like I was lesser than for not being in my marriage anymore, having, like, failed at something. So, I'm very motivated, I talk a lot about how much this is actually a success, and how staying in a marriage, or just how marriage in general is not for everyone and it's a bad idea in a lot of cases. Avi Forrest: Do you still work with your wife, or your ex-wife? EJ Masicampo: Yes. She's also a psychology professor, and our offices are, I want to say, ten or 15 ft from each other. We work together, we're on committees together. We see each other all the time. I mean, we were really good friends before we split up, so we already shared a lot of common interests. I mean, before we were even dating we were good friends too. Yes, I've gone to, like, work happy hours where it ended up just being me and her because no one else showed up. So, we're very much still in each other's lives, we get along great. She comes to my comedy shows and sees me, you know, talking about her and our split. So, I mean, she keeps coming to the shows so she must like it and find it entertaining. I mean, she'll give me notes afterwards, you know, she'll just kind of jokingly tell me, "Well, you know, it was a little bit like this," or "Don't worry, I won't tell people how you actually felt about that thing," or whatever. Avi Forrest: And you have kids together, right? EJ Masicampo: Yes, we've got two kids, six and nine. Avi Forrest: What's it like just turning, what we would perceive as negative things, into comedy? EJ Masicampo: Honestly, I feel like that's the best part, taking something that people see one way, or people see as negative, and flipping it on it's head and getting them to laugh about it, because it feels like agreement, getting people to move a little bit. EJ Masicampo: Because that's what I like most in comedy, is when a comedian can get me to look at something differently, or feel a different way about something, in a way that is expanding my perspective more. EJ Masicampo: And, if I can do that, yes, that is the best part of comedy, to me, is to get people to see things in a new light, and to get that sort of agreement through laughter is great. EJ Masicampo: Yes, when you're going against what people typically think, yes, you've got to find the right angle, the right wording, so it's really easy, but yes, when you nail it, it's a fun process and very rewarding when you figure it out. Avi Forrest: What's the hardest negative thing you've turned into a joke? EJ Masicampo: There are a lot of things I am still in the middle of having not figured out. I talk about race a lot. And, there, you know, I had to try a lot of different things to really get it right. I think there, a lot of that I haven't figured out yet. People don't realize this, but, like, we aren't really a community. The Asian community is so diverse, I think it's 49 different countries in Asia, and people expect us to be this community. We get along, but we're not a community, we're an alliance. Honestly, we're together because we [LAUGHS] need each other. It's, sort of, a survival tactic. But, I haven't found the right way to talk about that. It feels bad to, like, reject the rest of the Asian community and say, "We're natural enemies," but we are. I mean, you know, our history is conflict, not, you know, having these potlucks on campus together that we're supposed to be having. Avi Forrest: And, I saw that joke about hecklers, and especially, like, racists, that, like, "Go back to Beijing!" And you said, like, "Thank you." EJ Masicampo: [LAUGHS] I've gotten everything, I feel like. Yes, I've been told to go back to China, I've had people do the mocking, sort of, Chinese-sounding voice to me. Yes, it's not happening every day, but every once in a while I get a crazy, crazy, out-of-nowhere racist comment like that. Usually, when it happens, the first thing is just shock. It's so unexpected, you're not insulted, you're just confused. You have to, sort of, walk away and be like, "Did that person actually say that thing?" And then, later realize, yes, they did. And then, I feel like being insulted or angry is like the fourth or fifth emotion you feel, and then much, much later I feel like you can start to make jokes about it, after you've felt okay about it. EJ Masicampo: People can tell when you don't yet feel okay about something. I've seen people, or myself, I tried to tell divorce jokes the next day, and the jokes were fine, but, I think it was so raw, people just couldn't help but feel sorry for me. They're like, "There's no way. Yes, you're clearly in pain." So, yes, it does take processing it and becoming okay with it, I think, before you can really make it funny. Avi Forrest: How does your experience with psychology, sort of, interact with all of this, if anything? EJ Masicampo: Yes, in so many ways. I've already said that social psychologists just analyze, you know, everyday life, and a lot of observational comedy is that. But also, as a research psychologist, I'm just very used to experimentation. I mean, I have, like, a lab where we run experiments on people, and we test hypotheses, and we gather data, and then we revise our studies based on the incoming data. So, joke writing, honestly, feels a lot like that. EJ Masicampo: Whenever I write a joke, I've, basically, got a hypothesis, which is that this is going to make people laugh. And then, it's nice because I get my data right away. I get to tell the joke, I get to see people laugh. And, if they don't, well, that was not a supportive hypothesis, so then, I get to revise the joke and try again. Avi Forrest: I'm just imagining you, like, on a magazine cover, in a lab coat, analyzing a rubber chicken or something. EJ Masicampo: [LAUGHS] That's good, that's good. Avi Forrest: Like this idea of 'joke is hypothesis' or something. EJ Masicampo: You know, being a teacher too, effective teaching is a lot about, you know, knowing how to communicate these complex ideas in a way that people are going to understand. For me, joke writing is a lot like that, too, it's like you've found something funny. If you think it's funny, you're never wrong, there is something funny there, you've just got to communicate what you're experiencing to the audience, and whether they can also see it. So, it's all about finding the right way to describe exactly what you're seeing is funny about this thing. So, I feel like teaching has helped me a lot with being able to communicate as a comic. Avi Forrest: And, honestly, I think that's hilarious, it's like a weird alternate universe. Batman, it's like his parents weren't murdered and he wasn't a superhero, he just did like stand-up comedy and psychology. EJ Masicampo: [LAUGHS] Avi Forrest: Do people ever find that out and just, I don't know, think that's hilarious? EJ Masicampo: It's an interesting combo, for sure. Yes, they usually have questions about it. I don't know that they find it hilarious, it would be nice if they did. But, it's a pretty natural, sort of, transition, as I put my stand-up comic uniform on at night and go out into the darkness. Avi Forrest: I did some research on your Google Scholar, it is not boring, I am a massive research nerd. You have a link tree that says 'Not really funny' Google Scholar. EJ Masicampo: Oh, right, right, right. Avi Forrest: I don't know, I see studying, like, behavior, and talking of thought process, but also secrecy, the burdens of secrecy. EJ Masicampo: Yes. Avi Forrest: And also, how thoughts relate to action. EJ Masicampo: I have published a lot on, like, self-control, like, how we manage our behaviors and our temptations, which is a very social thing. I mean, most self-control comes down to, like, taking all your animal impulses and forcing yourself to be a civilized person in society. That takes a lot of effort. EJ Masicampo: I've done a lot on morality, like how do we decide whether someone, or their behaviors, are good or bad? And, yes, I've studied secrecy a lot, just how secrets affect people, just the felt burden of secrets, how it actually feels burdensome and, it kind of, weighs us down in interesting ways. EJ Masicampo: I'm a social psychologist. Did you go to IU? Avi Forrest: Oh, I'm a junior at IU right now. EJ Masicampo: You're going there now? Have you ever taken any psychology classes there? There's a great psych department. Avi Forrest: Yes, I took a psychology course one-on-one there, but, I think I've had a couple of friends who are studying psychology. EJ Masicampo: Yes, all right, yes, there's a great social psych group there, and that's what I do. You know, it's just the psychology of everyday life and how people relate to other people, and comedy is a lot of that, observational comedy is just, you know, looking at how we live, looking at relationships. EJ Masicampo: So, we're analyzing them and breaking them down. And, yes, I feel like I focus on a lot of the same things in the classroom when I'm teaching as I do on stage. Avi Forrest: In all of this, you said that the marriage ended well, and, from what I have heard, the relationship with your kids is going well. It feels weird for me to say, because I'm basically still a stranger, for some reason I know so many details about your life through your comedy, just listening to your stand-up. EJ Masicampo: I've definitely had friends or acquaintances, or coworkers, or whatever, learn about me by coming to, you know, like, an open mic or a show where I'm talking to a bunch of strangers and they're, as a friend, learning things about me that I'd never shared with them before. Avi Forrest: What's the deepest thing you've shared on stage? EJ Masicampo: I mean, yes, I've gotten pretty vulnerable about my divorce. My divorce has been great, that's what a lot of my comedy is about. I'm very pro-divorce, I think just because, yes, that's not something I've often talked even to my family about, that has felt like one of the more vulnerable topics. Avi Forrest: So, which ends up being harder, being a psychology professor or being a stand-up comedian? EJ Masicampo: [LAUGHS] Oh, I mean, they're both hard. You know, another thing that's similar about both of them is there's so much rejection in both, because, as a scientist, it's rough publishing, I don't know if you've heard the phrase 'publish or perish' but, you know, to be a good scientist, you're supposed to be running these innovative studies and writing these papers that you then publish in these journals. And, we go through this peer review process where usually, what happens is, they send your paper to these other scientists, and they just completely destroy and tear apart your work. They say their job is to say everything that's wrong about it. I just got one of these the other day, it's just 12 pages of single spaced, just line after line, "Here's what's wrong with this study, and here's why your ideas are bad." And, it's so painful. And, I mean, it's similar in comedy, before any joke really gets to the place where you're seeing it in a special or on late night, it's just crashing and burning. People aren't insulting you to your face, but they're just giving you these blank stares and just not laughing at all at these jokes that you thought were so funny. And that is equally painful. Comedy's nice because the feedback's immediate, [LAUGHS] and, in psychology, you'll work for years on a project and then have it be torn apart to shreds. Avi Forrest: And so, I'm going to ask some closing questions that are a little more open-ended, just more in general, like what's something people don't see when you're performing? EJ Masicampo: Oh yes, I mean, there's the long history of the joke before I got there, all the times it failed and all the times you tweaked it. EJ Masicampo: And then, every comic when they're performing too, they're in their heads adjusting all the time. That's another fun thing about comedy is you're constantly adjusting your set. If you're doing it well, you're adjusting based on what's happening in the room, based on what's getting a laugh, how people are reacting. You might notice certain things aren't working so well, so you might, in your head, start dropping these jokes that you were planning on doing later, or deciding to do new ones that you think will work well, based on how people are reacting. EJ Masicampo: Yes, and then, you know, just paying attention to what's happening in the room, responding to it in kind, preparing to respond to it later. There is a lot of that happening. EJ Masicampo: Yes, it's a crazy mix of being prepared with jokes that you've written and know verbatim, and then, being able to change those on the fly, based on what's happening in your set. Avi Forrest: Thank you so much for talking with me. EJ Masicampo: Thanks for talking to me, this was a lot of fun. Governments throughout the world are ignoring the ongoing COVID pandemic, despite millions of people continuing to be infected, and thousands dying from the virus each month. Since its spread is no longer officially monitored, it is only thanks to the efforts of principled scientists, who track levels of SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater collection samples, that its prevalence can be estimated. Based on data collected by Biobot Analytics in particular, since the emergence of the JN.1 variant in August approximately 1-2 billion people globally have been infected with the virusand tens of millions will go on to develop Long COVID. The Economist estimates there have been approaching 30 million excess global deaths up to the end of 2023, compared to the pre-pandemic period. Governments pretend the virus has disappeared, part of efforts to normalise mass infection and justify the abandonment of all public health precautions. But everyday experience for millions of people conflicts with the official whitewash. Lisa Diaz, a campaigner for safe education in UK schools during the pandemic, posted on X her continuing concerns after being contacted by teachers reporting high staff and pupil absences due to COVID. Many responses to Lisas posting confirmed that transmission rates remain high due to the absence of mitigation measures to slow the viruss spread. An experienced primary school teacher from Cambridgeshire in England, who responded to Lisas tweet, gave the following interview to the World Socialist Web Site (WSWS). To protect her anonymity, she is referred to as Barbara. *** WSWS: What mitigation measures if any are in place in your school? Barbara: We have hand gel in all classrooms. Teachers can refill them. I dont think theyre used quite as much as they were, but certainly the children in my class use them after blowing their nose as standard. There are still hand sprays on the walls in various places for adults to use around the school, but theyre not all refilled. There are no HEPA filters or UV lighting provided by school. People dont mask. Each classroom has a CO2 monitor. I still use mine and keep the CO2 levels really low, but Im not sure anyone else does. Windows in other rooms are generally kept shut. WSWS: What makes you think COVID is still spreading? What are staff/pupil absences like compared to the pre-COVID period? Barbara: I dont have figures, but absence rates are higher than they used to be, in line with the national picture. Staff with access to the data said that staff absence has increased in the same way pupil absence has. Its become more difficult to get a supply teacher and the deputy head has spent a large proportion of his time covering for sick teachers. The headteacher was very rarely off prior to her COVID infection, not even once a year on average. Since her first [infection] shes been off quite often and for several days at a time. Ive been ill more often too and have had several periods of making it through the week to then be too ill/too exhausted to enjoy the weekend. Other colleagues report the same. I dont know anyone [pupils] off with Long COVID, but I do notice the dark shadows under some childrens eyes, and how more children are sick more often It really does seem to be illness driving the increase in absence. WSWS: When staff or pupils are off sick, does anyone mention COVID? Does anyone do a rapid flow test? Barbara: Staff do test for COVID reasonably often but not as a matter of course and its optional. The headteacher recently was off with COVID and then another member of staff tested herself because she had symptoms and found she was positive. Barbara said she had heard that after a headteachers cluster meeting in Cambridgeshire, six heads were off work the following week with COVID. One teacher at her school also caught the virus but returned after four-and-a-half days of testing positive. Barbara: I expressed surprise she had tested negative so quickly and she said shed been told she could come back if she felt well enough. Then we were all expected to sit together in the same room for a meeting after school with someone who might still be COVID positive. That is following the guidelines. I think this recent case shows the madness! Government guidelines state that it is not recommended that children and young people are tested for COVID-19 unless directed to by a health professional: For children and young people aged 18 and under who are recommended to take a COVID-19 test by a health professional and test positive, the advice is to try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people for three days Adults are no longer required to do a COVID-19 rapid lateral flow test if they have symptoms. Adults with a positive COVID-19 test result are advised to try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people for five days. WSWS: What is your opinion of the guidelines, in relation to the disease being allowed to spread and mutate? Barbara: Its terrifying that were allowing this to happen. Every piece of research I see about COVID underlines the fact that this is not a cold, its a multi-system vascular disease and is causing all kinds of damage to our brains and bodies. One member of staff has been off with Long COVID. Shes back now but was off for about three months. She also had quite a long period where she didnt teach her full timetable. Everyones noticed the increase in sickness. People do mostly seem to think its COVID-related but dont seem to see any way out of it. Parents take children to a primary school in Bournemouth, UK following the reopening of schools nationally. during the COVID pandemic, March, 2021 WSWS: Have you any idea what the situation is like in other schools? Is it discussed anywhere? Barbara: It doesnt seem to be discussed much. Im in an NEU [National Education Union] reps group and dont think its mentioned there. Im so disappointed in the NEU. I actually voted for [new general secretary] Daniel Kebede on the basis that I saw a tweet from him about clean air in school but have heard nothing since hes been elected. I recently attended the Cambridgeshire [NEU] meeting where we voted on motions to take to conference and there were several about clean air/COVID transmission. It didnt get through from our region. Unfortunately, there was no time for discussion! I was all ready to try to persuade people that this was an issue for the left, about our and childrens safety etc, but we didnt get a chance to say why we voted for particular motions. Im not going to conference. I just cant justify going to a conference with a group of people I know are highly likely to have COVID. I put myself at enough risk every day at school. WSWS: The World Health Organization said at the beginning of the year that COVID is still rampant. Why do you think governments all over the world are ignoring this and doing nothing to prevent the spread? Barbara: Its all about valuing the economy over people. Of course, the economy cant exist without people, as Germanys recent data caused by increased sick days shows. I cant comprehend how it can be allowed happen, but I can see its how capitalism works. [Of the ruling Conservatives and opposition Labour party:] Im disgusted and deeply disappointed in them. WSWS: How is your school affected by the crisis in teacher recruitment and retention and funding. What impact is COVID having on this? Barbara: I do think COVID has affected supply cover [for staff absences]. In our immediate area there are four primary schools and at the end of the last school year, there were seven vacanciesa whole school-worth of teachers! I dont think they had a single application for posts by the closing date. I cant imagine that all the other six vacancies in the area were filled. We have had trouble filling Teaching Assistant [TA] posts, but as funding is a huge issue, there isnt really the money to pay them. Lack of SEND [special educational needs and disabilities] support is a massive problem. We have lost TAs because we have had a huge increase in children with severe SEN and so TAs who were previously general class TAs have been put 1:1 with a child with high needs. The high responsibility and low pay have meant that they have gone to do less stressful jobs elsewhere. All the teachers feel their job is getting more difficult. WSWS: The World Socialist Web Site has outlined three strategies in relation to COVID: herd immunity, which most political parties have embraced now, mitigation, which was adopted during lockdown, and global eradication, which our party is fighting for as part of the struggle to overthrow the capitalist profit system and establish socialism. What are your thoughts on this? Barbara: I would love global eradication to be a possibility. It seems like the only reasonable and equitable thing to aim for given the serious nature of COVID. However, we could quickly improve matters greatly by using HEPA filters, masking in healthcare and public transport, requiring regular testing and supporting people to isolate when they are sick. I read that Thailand have a system where all school children test every Monday. It can be done. WSWS: Is there anything you would like to add? Barbara: I think its important that teachers have not been eligible for vaccinations in the same way healthcare workers are. Clearly, those working in hospitals or doctors surgeries should be front of the queue, but its not just those who have been vaccinated first. My partner works in NHS social care and mostly works from home between face-to-face meetings with clients. He has always been fully vaccinated while I have not. Its a scandal that doses of the vaccine were thrown away rather than offered more widely this winter and also that school staff, who have had very high rates of COVID infections, have not been offered the vaccine. The Educators Rank-and-File Safety Committee invites teaching and support staff to contact us with your experiences of COVID in schools. To fight for the hundreds of billions of pounds required for high quality education, health and social carenot corporate profits and military spendingjoin the fight for socialism today. In an extraordinarily crude and obvious piece of war propaganda, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) on Tuesday published an article hailing the deployment of US marines to the Northern Territory (NT), and a broader Australian military build-up there, as the basis of a cross-cultural exchange with indigenous people. Australian Army soldiers with the United States Armed Forces members at a Welcome to Country ceremony at Townsville Field Training Area in Queensland before Talisman Sabre 2023 war games begin. [Photo: Talisman Sabre Facebook] Despite its poverty, the article was notable from several standpoints. It highlighted the ever more open role of the ABC, despite being a nominally independent public broadcaster, as a mouthpiece for militarism and the state. The fuzzy and warm depiction of military activities that are obviously aimed at preparing for war with China is of a piece with the broadcasters aggressive support for the Israeli genocide in Gaza. The article also underscored the role of identity politics, including of the multicultural and Aboriginal nationalist variants, as a form of official, capitalist ideology that can easily be adapted to the most reactionary ends, including the promotion of war. And it revealed the involvement of a narrow layer of the indigenous elite in the military build-up. To arrive at those broader points of political significance, though, one must wade through the mud. The article is execrable, reading it a painful experience to anyone who has ever had a critical or oppositional thought in their head. It could have been written by a public relations firm, though one would hope, not for too great a fee. A couple of examples will suffice. The article begins: At the foothills of an ancient red escarpment in a remote pocket of the Northern Territory, United States Marines, US Navy sailors, and Australian Army soldiers are knee-deep in a billabong. Theyre learning survival skills from traditional owners, including how and where to hunt bush food. The young marines and soldiers seem in awe of the traditional hunting skills and cultural lessons they are being shown. One is informed that this scene is part of a genuine friendship built on mutual respect and admiration between the Australian military and Ngaliwurru, Nungali and Jaminjung people. This is presented not as an opinion, or an impression, but as a matter of fact. The Department of Defence would approve. Later, the reader is introduced to Camille Modjeski, who works for the US Navy as a hospital corpsman. It hardly seems accidental that the only rank-and-file American military operative interviewed is a young female working in the medical field. A grizzled veteran of American imperialisms criminal wars of the past thirty years might not be suitable for the upbeat, good news story vibe. Nor would comments voicing the macho and hyper-nationalist environment that undoubtedly exists within the US military have tallied with the respectful cultural exchange angle. Modjeski, fortunately, is a free spirit, open to new ideas and experiences. She told the ABC, Learning natural medicine is a huge deal to me. I believe in both eastern and western medicinetraditional and modern. The author recounts a bizarre scene in which Modjeski has tears falling as traditional owners painted healing oils and embraced her. This was a poignant cross-cultural exchange. All of which is transparent nonsense. The article skirts around the reason the American military personnel are in the NT, aside from their attraction to alternative medicine and love of indigenous culture, but cannot avoid it entirely. [A]s tensions rise north of Darwin, in the Asia-Pacific region, the area is deemed critical in preparing for conflict, it states. Bradshaw Field Training Area, on remote indigenous land 600 kilometres south of Darwin, is now one of the biggest live-fire training facilities in the world. An initial US marine deployment or annual rotation has grown from 200 marines in 2011 to more than 2,500 today. The tensions, so discreetly referenced, are a consequence of US preparations for war with China, which is viewed as the chief threat to American imperialist dominance. 2011 was a key turning point. In that year, then US President Barack Obama announced the pivot to Asia, a vast American military build-up targeting China, from the floor of the Australian parliament. The Labor government of Prime Minister Julia Gillard endorsed the plans for conflict and signed a secret military agreement, one component of which was the establishment of a semi-permanent US marine presence in Darwin. Since then, the military build-up has advanced greatly, with northern Australia being transformed into a hub of war. The number of marines have skyrocketed, the current Labor government has given every branch of the American military carte blanche access to bases in the NT, and is increasing its own troop deployment in the region. Missiles being fired during Talisman Sabre exercises in Australia [Photo: Talisman Sabre] Key US military assets are being stationed in the NT, including nuclear-capable B-52 bombers. Their deployment effectively marks the end of Australias non-nuclear weapons status without a shred of public discussion or debate. There is no threat of anybody invading the NT. But, as in World War II, it would serve as a launching point for aggressive military operations by the US, this time directed against China. That would unquestionably make the NT a potential target for airstrikes in the event of a war. It was the reason for the Japanese airforce bombing of Darwin in February 1942 which is still the largest single attack ever mounted by a foreign power on Australia leading to hundreds of deaths. Unsurprisingly, the ABC did not ask any indigenous people how they felt about being placed in the crosshairs. Nor did it examine the compatibility of a massive live-fire training site with traditional indigenous cultural practices. The marines, moreover, have not engaged only in healing oil ceremonies and nature walks. There have been periodic reports of the nuisance and even serious criminal menace they have caused to members of the public. In 2018, the head of the entire deployment was charged with drink driving. Desperate to highlight the purported benefits of the deployment, the ABC cites the economic opportunities that have been made available. The only example given is a contracting company involved in such things as rubbish disposal and fencing. Twenty-four of the companys 25 workers are Indigenous, bringing $1,000,000 in wages to Timber Creek, the ABC states. Divided by 24, that million dollars could not be much more than the minimum wage. The company is owned by Daniel Jones, an indigenous man who is also on the Bradshaw Liaison Committee, as are a number of his relatives, including his sister, Lorraine Jones, who heads it. The committee, composed of indigenous leaders, has signed agreements with the Australian military accepting the Bradshaw Field Training Area and other military operations in the region. It is tied in with the Northern Land Council. Comments by Lorraine Jones indicate that the committee has also been hard at work suppressing opposition to the deployments. She stated: People were uncomfortable talking with people in uniform. They were thinking, Oh yeah, theyre going to drop bombs on the site, and our sacred sites going to be damaged. But that wasn't the case. Under the framework of land rights, acknowledging indigenous ownership of some traditional lands, deals have been struck over decades between Aboriginal leaders and major corporations, particularly in mining. A small indigenous layer has been enriched, while the vast majority have remained in abject poverty. The collaboration between the Bradshaw Liaison Committee and the military, in preparations for war, underscores the utterly reactionary character of this indigenous elite. It has its own material interests and privileges, distinct from those of ordinary indigenous people, and is increasingly integrated into the corridors of political, corporate and military power. Deepening that integration was a central purpose of the Labor governments failed referendum last October to create an indigenous Voice or advisory body to the parliament. It was also aimed at putting a progressive gloss on militarism. Since the defeat of the referendum, some of its key architects, such as indigenous academic Marcia Langton have openly backed Israels genocidal assault on Gaza, while denouncing supporters of the Palestinians. All of that demonstrates that the fundamental division in society is class, not race. The fight against the oppression of indigenous people, along with opposition to war, can only go forward through a unified movement of the entire working class, against the governments and the capitalist profit-system which they serve. A final point should be made about the author of the ABCs article, Kristy OBrien. As a long-term NT correspondent, she has largely focused on fairly bland human interest stories, though has also authored other promotions of the military. In 2017, OBrien married then NT Labor Chief Minister Michael Gunner. Perhaps that would generally be of limited public interest. Northern Territory Chief Minister Michael Gunner (left) shakes hands with US Pacific Command chief Admiral Harry Harris in November 9, 2017. But in this story, there is a specific issue. As chief minister, Gunner directly oversaw the increasing marine deployment in the NT, while depicting it as a boon to the territory and necessary to defence. One is left with a reporter aggressively promoting a troop deployment permitted by her husband. This fairly glaring conflict of interest was not disclosed in OBriens article. Shift change at Stellantis Warren Truck Assembly Plant, December 15, 2023 The following statement was issued by the newly formed Rank-and-File Committee to Fight Job Cuts. The committee was established by supplementary (temporary) employees last month after Stellantis fired hundreds of SEs without any opposition from the United Auto Workers. To contact the committee, call or text (248) 919-8448. An open letter to all autoworkers: Reinstate the fired SEs! Defend all jobs! Urgently, Brothers and Sisters, Less than three months after the ratification of our record contract, it has become clear the United Auto Workers leadership deceived the membership into voting for a sellout contract. Thousands of Stellantis supplemental employees (SEs) were told by UAW officials that we would be rolled over to full-time, but instead we are being permanently fired. Instead of saving plants and adding jobs, the new contracts have given automakers a free hand to lay off thousands of workers at Stellantis plants in Detroit and Toledo, GM plants in Orion Township and Lansing, and at the Ford Rouge Complex in Dearborn, Michigan. On February 8, UAW Local 140 officials informed Warren Truck workers that Global management was surveying the plant for downsizing and that deep cuts were on the way. This is only the beginning. Workers from all over the world are forming rank-and-file committees to defend workers jobs. UPS just announced 12,000 job cuts as well. We have formed the Rank-and-File Committee to Fight Job Cuts (RFC-FJC) to unify SEs and full-timers, the employed and unemployed, and workers across all industries and countries. We are calling for mass demonstrations, strikes and other collective action to stop these corporate attacks and fight for the right to a secure and good-paying job for everyone. We demand: Stop all job cuts Immediately rehire fired temps and laid-off workers with full back pay Shorten the workweek with no loss in income to secure jobs for all We are appealing to every brother and sister, whether you have been terminated or are still working in the plants, to join us in this fight. Full-time workers have a target on your backs too, it's just a matter of time. Supervisors are writing up workers for the tiniest things, trying to initiate disciplinary action against them. Collectively, we can defend our means of livelihood. Since we have been repeatedly deceived by the UAW bureaucrats, from International down to the local level, we, the shop floor workers, are organizing this fight. Terminated SEs have requested a face-to-face meeting with UAW President Shawn Fain and he refused. Local UAW officials have canceled union meetings because they dont want to talk to fired workers. The whole organization is hiding from the membership. Fain and other union officials swear they stand in solidarity with the membership yet thousands of members are out of work, struggling in this economy to find income, to provide for their families and put gas in their cars. We are not receiving protection from the UAW when we paid dues! When we were working, they never skipped deducting dues from our paychecks no matter how small they were. When we say solidarity, we mean rank-and-file workers, shop floor workers, we have each others backs and we can show that by standing together. We are all in this fight together; we all deserve to be able to pay our bills and put food on the table. Here are the facts: On January 12, without any warning from the company or our UAW representatives, Stellantis permanently terminated 539 SEs in Metro Detroit and Kokomo, Indiana via text message followed by an automated call. On January 31, the company cut our medical insurance (we never had vision or dental). The day after we were fired, UAW Vice President Rich Boyer released a letter admitting that another 1,600 SEs would soon be terminated across the company. Rather than standing up and defending the lowest tier members, he instructed local union officials to Please inform all the SEs of this information. Boyer repeated the companys lies that we were fired because of poor work performance/attendance issues or because we hadnt been used for an extended period. Most of us had spotless performance and attendance records. Prior to the contract expiring last September, the vast majority of us were mandated to work 10-12.5 hour shifts, six days a week at plants like Warren Truck, which were put into critical status. With the acquiessence of the UAW, we were forced to stockpile trucks for a possible strike. Our hours were drastically cut once Fains bogus stand up strike began. The company locked our badges out from the building and the parking lots. It appears as though management and UAW officials were exerting as much pressure as possible onto us so we would vote for the contract. They promised us job security, profit sharing and signing bonuses. Even so, a lot of us DID NOT take the bait and voted against the sellout deal. In the contract highlights book, the UAW claimed, Within the first year of the agreement, 3,200 SEs will be converted to full-time. After that, if an SE has nine months of service, an SE will automatically have full-time status. This would make sense and seem like a good deal if the UAW was truly fighting to end the abuse of perma-temps, as Fain and Boyer said. But hidden in the 900-page contract is the fact that only 1,957 out of the companys 5,219 SEs are being converted. As for the nine-month rollover deadline, the contract says, The Parties can agree to extend this period. In other words, SEs will still be at-will employees who can be repeatedly laid off before reaching their rollover date or terminated at any time. According to Boyer, Stellantis agreed to convert an additional 900 SEs at the Toledo Assembly Complex. However, many of these workers are going to be laid off immediately, if not terminated. The company withdrew its promise to add a third shift and is laying off 1,225 workers on February 19 instead. Under a deal worked out by the UAW, 900 SEs will be chosen from a company-wide pool and Toledo will be designated as their home plant. Of these, only 372 will remain there while 500 are transferred to the Jefferson plant in Detroit where other workers will lose their jobs. To make matters worse, SEs from the Toledo plant (some of whom have been stuck in temporary status up to six years) are fearful they will be passed over because the UAW made a last-minute decision that conversions will not be based on corporate/hiring date but Social Security numbers. Toledo Jeep workers [Photo by Stellantis Media] Stellantis and other automakers are slashing jobs while boasting that the strike did not affect their profits. On February 2, 2,445 workers, including 750 SEs, were put out of work when the third shift was eliminated at the Detroit Assembly Mack plant. The UAW has also agreed to the closure of 10 MOPAR parts distribution centers and the Tipton Transmission plant near Kokomo, Indiana. When asked about the mass firings of SEs by a local Detroit reporter, Fain said the firings were driven by corporate greed and that the UAW did not agree to it. If they did not agree to it, why is it hidden within the contract? Fain continued, You know we have a contract and we're going to operate within the means of that contract, but we expect the company to take care of our members and we're going to fight every step of the way for them. Fain must think we are fools. He and the other high-paid union officials saw the contract before any of us didit was negotiated by them! They knew these job cuts were coming and they concealed them from us to get our votes. Courts have found that employers breach their duties of good faith and fair dealing by: firing or transferring employees to prevent them from collecting sales commissions (profit sharing) and misleading employees about their chances for promotions and wage increases (job security). In this case, both the company and the UAW bureaucrats sold us this fraudulent contract. When it comes to corporate greed Fain & Co. should look in the mirror. He is part of a vast business, known to many as UAW, Inc., which has assets of over $1 billion and pays out $75 million a year in salaries to people who do nothing for us. The only thing that has changed since Fain was installed as president was his salary. For years, he was pocketing $156,364 as a UAW International administrative assistant. As head honcho, hes pulling in nearly $300,000 a year. In conclusion: The working class is in grave danger and anyone who expects UAW officials to give truthful answers to the membership will be sadly disappointed. The union leaders were given a chance to do the right thing. Now, it is up to us to unite all UAW members so we, the workers, have a fighting chance. It is crucial that we stand together stronger than we ever have before. Both the UAW apparatus and management play divide and conquer with the workers on the shop floor. Many stir the pot by telling full-timers the exploitation and mass firings of SEs will help them secure their jobs and profit sharing checks. They try to discourage us from reaching out to full-timers because we are just temporaries. They call us union-bashers for exposing the facts. When UAW bureaucrats declare there is nothing we can do and say the company has the right to protect their profits, they are allowing union members to be disposed of at the companys whim. Fain said wed Eat the Rich while he allows the rich to chew us up and spit us out. Enough is Enough! It is time for us to come together and fight for everything we were promised! Join the fight now, our future depends on it. Yours in real solidarity, The Rank-and-File Committee to Fight Job Cuts To contact the committee, call or text (248) 919-8448. On February 2, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) published a commentary titled, Welcome to Dearborn, Americas Jihad Capital, slandering members of the largely Arab-American city as supporters of terrorism due to the amount of pro-Palestinian sentiment and hostility to the US-Israel war in Gaza among residents. Support for terrorism in southern Michigan has long been a concern for US counterterrorism officials, writes Steven Salinsky, executive director of the Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI). Whats happening in Dearborn isnt simply a political problem for Democrats. Its potentially a national-security issue affecting all Americans. Counterterrorism agencies at all levels should pay close attention, he ends ominously. The article includes language from the hysteria whipped up after 9/11 to garner support for the invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan in the early 2000s. It cites as fact a 2001 report by the Michigan State Police submitted to the US Justice Department, which has been thoroughly debunked for nearly two decades. On September 17, 2001, five days after the 9/11 attacks, the FBI raided a house in Detroit, according to the book, Arab Detroit 9/11: Life in the Terror Decade. The agents were looking for one particular individual suspected of terrorism and instead his four non-citizen housemates were arrested. They were quickly dubbed an operational combat sleeper cell of Al-Qaida terrorists by John Ashcroft, a label referenced frequently in news stories about Detroit for the next several years, it continues. Each of the housemates was wrongfully indicted on terrorism charges when one accused the others, in exchange for a plea deal, stating that they had attempted to recruit him to the supposed sleeper cell. However, the convictions were overturned a few months later and the charges thrown out when the US Attorneys office in Detroit was forced to admit that their former prosecutor, Richard Convertino, had withheld impeachment and exculpatory material from the defense. Convertino quickly resigned, but after three years of investigative work and relentless international publicity, the government had failed to prove that anything remotely resembling a sleeper cell of Al-Qaida terrorists had resided in Detroit. Ashcroft now sits on the board of MEMRI, alongside former CIA directors Michael Hayden and James Woolsey, retired Marine General Kenneth McKenzie Jr., Deborah Lipstadt, Alan Dershowitz and other war criminals, Zionists, and faithful servants of the state. MEMRI is a Zionist DC-based American non-profit founded in 1997 by Yigal Carmon, counter-terrorism advisor to two former Israeli prime ministers, including Yitzhak Rabin; and Meyrav Wurmser, of the conservative Hudson Institute think tank, and the wife of David Wurmser, advisor to former US Vice President Dick Cheney during the post-9/11 War on Terror. A petition for the WSJ to retract both the commentary cited above and another titled Chicago Votes for Hamas, about the city council voting in favor of a ceasefire in Gaza, has garnered over 14,000 signatures since its launch earlier this week. These articles are alarmist and espouse racist tropes of Arab and Muslim American communities, the petition statement says. It is imperative that media outlets uphold ethical standards of journalism and refrain from publishing content that discriminates against and demonizes entire communities based on their religion or ethnicity. US President Joe Biden has been unable to visit Dearborn in his 2024 campaign, as local government officials and residents have, until today, refused to meet with him or his representatives until he calls for a ceasefire in Palestine. Anti-genocide protesters gathered again outside of the Henry Hotel in Dearborn during a meeting between Dearborn Mayor Abdullah Hammoud and Biden campaign aides. The mayor softened his anti-Biden stance afterwards in a series of tweets, stating that the meeting was held to ensure that the White House and those with the ability to change the course of the genocide unfolding in Gaza very clearly hear and understand the demands of our communitydirectly from us. A protest meeting against the Gaza genocide at Fordson High School in Dearborn Just last week Biden held a meeting in Warren, another Detroit suburb, with the United Auto Workers (UAW) bureaucracy, in which he was shielded from anti-genocide protesters by police. Disgust with the Democratic Party among longtime voters in Michigan has led to a crisis for the Biden campaign, which is set to face Trump again in the 2024 elections. The WSWS spoke with residents and students in Dearborn about Bidens scheduled visit and the WSJ article. Ali: I dont think theres anything such thing as a lesser evil. Ali is a 31-year-old doctor and immigrant from Pakistan who discussed his thoughts on the upcoming election. I dont think any of these candidates have ever done anything to de-escalate any of the conflicts in the world in their power, be it Obama or Biden or Trump, theyre just part of the same war machinery that profits from it. Its just a change of face. In this election one of them is racist and the other one is responsible for the murder of children. I dont think theres any such thing as a lesser evil. Both are evil, both should be called out as such. Im not a voter in America but its a sad situation when these are the options. Ive not seen any political candidate on either the Democratic or Republican side who represents a real voice of the people, he said. I think [the WSJ article] its really offensive. There are decent human beings, living all over Dearborn, who just want to be with their families who have many ambitions and motivations in their life, who have nothing to do with the bad that happens in the world, he continued. Labeling a community as a beacon of terrorism, or a group of people that others should be afraid of, is setting a really bad precedent because thats how you profile people. Thats how you sow the seeds of hatred. Thats how you legitimize when somebody takes a gun and takes matters in their own hands. The repercussions of articles like these, or media propaganda of this kind, has far-reaching consequences. For the community that lives in Dearborn, this puts them at risk, in addition to the fact that this is just utterly humiliating for any human being to be labeled as such. So I strongly condemn it. At the very least, [Biden] should offer the people an apology. But that doesnt cut it because there are actual people dying in the Middle East. I feel like they consider people to be stupid enough to just buy into whatever nonsense that they say on camera, that they would sometimes say a word or two of appeasement and they think that people are going to buy what they are saying. But people have woken up to it. We have been seeing it in many different kinds of socio-political movements at the grassroots level, which they try their best to quash. I think we need more collective effort from the people. People have to stand up for their rights and they have to stand up for their dignity. This community, regardless of any faith or religion or ethnic boundary, is pretty united in their belief that the war should end and America should stop poking its nose into the affairs of nations who can sort it out themselves. They think people are dumb. Remember in the last election campaign? Biden said, If you are a real black American, you should vote for Biden. No, if youre a real person, you should have a voice of your own. That voice may not be represented by the two candidates who are on the ballot. Aya: Nobodys listening to us. But then when they need our votes, they come back here again. Aya is an 18-year-old student at the University of Michigan, Dearborn. My parents were actually in Iraq during the invasion, they had to flee because of that, she said. Thats a big part of why theres still a lot of solidarity when things like [the genocide] happen. You see photos from Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, all these countries pre-US intervention, and how they looked so normal or even Westernized. Then this image is shattered through US intervention and the same areas have been blasted to rubble. She had read the WSJ article and was disgusted with it. There is this huge generalization of what our beliefs are as Muslims or people from the Middle East. The media portrays us as a monolith, especially this word jihad. Its associated with all of us. It creates an extremely negative association. This kind of rhetoric can desensitize and dehumanize people. She was angered by tweets from Biden and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer claiming to take a stand against Islamophobia. Its incredibly hypocritical, because theyre just sitting there tweeting away on their phones, but they havent done a single thing for us, they havent done a single thing for our families overseas. Nobodys listening to us. But then when they need our votes, they come back here again. I think, when you are so tired of it, that you grow past the point of thinking that there could be change, but thats a part of what they want from us. They want us to think that its not possible to create change because they wont listen to us. They just want the power. I think a big part of [the two-party system] is rooted in American capitalism. Were split into this two-party system that is geared to corner us. So we basically have no choice. Its either one or the other. But in reality, theyre both the same thing. Theyre both fighting for American power. The establishment of America was created on the fact that this two-party system wasnt supposed to happen. But in the end, the two-party system happened anyways, even though there are specific warnings for us 250 years ago to not have that. Im a socialist. Socialism has been portrayed as being bad, but then if you look at it, its all US intervention thats led us to associate socialism with being bad. The media is incredibly powerful in helping us create this understanding that socialism equals bad. Mariam: Bidens claims to oppose Islamophobia are not going to take away from all of the lives in Gaza that have been lost. Mariam is also a student at UM Dearborn. Biden is not welcome here after the genocide that has been happening in Gaza. He has done nothing to fix this. He can post as many tweets as he wants, but he has promoted the Islamophobia that has been happening against us. He is promoting hate. He should not be accepted anywhere near us until he actually calls for a ceasefire. Thats the only way he would be welcome here, but its also not going to take away from all of the lives in Gaza that have been lost, the Palestinians who have lost their family, their friends, their homes, their land. Mariam also read the WSJ article and was disturbed by it. This stereotype that all Muslims or Arabs are terrorists, thats furthest from the truth. Islam literally means peace. It promotes peace, love and equality. She voiced concern for her own safety as well as the safety of her fellow students and residents of Dearborn. Its as simple as that. We are a target. Thats what the media is doing and its all on purpose. Its all calculated. Its all a scheme. Its all a political game. Its propaganda. Its all words, no action from the politicians. Thats how politics are. You know, four years ago, Biden had a lot of Arab supporters. I mean, I was one of them. However, he lost a large majority of them. I used to always preach that you should vote if you have the opportunity but Im at that point where I realized its all a game and they dont really care about us. So I wont be participating in that election because its lose-lose. In an attempt to hoodwink young and left-leaning workers and youth into supporting President Joe Bidens flagging presidential campaign, New York Representative and Democratic Socialists of America member Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez conducted a fawning interview on February 7 with MSNBCs Chris Hayes. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez campaigning for "Genocide Joe" Biden on MSNBC with Chris Hayes, February 7, 2024. [Photo: MSNBC/All in with Chris Hayes] In the interview, Ocasio-Cortez praised Bidens alleged leadership on climate, while remaining silent on his embrace of Trumps anti-immigrant border policies, in order to secure Republican votes for a massive war bill. Bidens unwavering support for the Israeli military campaign in Gaza, which has resulted in some 110,000 Palestinians killed, missing and injured as of February 6, according to Euro-Med Monitor, has led to collapse in his approval rating and poll numbers. This especially true among younger people and social media users, who have witnessed Israeli war crimes for over four months straight. Ocasio-Cortezs interview/unofficial campaign advertisement took place less than 48 hours after Biden delivered a public address from the White House in which he demanded Congress pass a $118 billion war/anti-immigrant package. The overriding concern of Biden, Democrats and many Republicans is the proxy war against Russia in Ukraine. Large sections of the American ruling class fear the collapse of their puppet government in Kiev if over $60 billion in military aid is not appropriated soon. The bill also contains $14 billion for the ethnic cleansing campaign in Gaza and billions to further militarize Taiwan. In order to secure Republican support for the package, it also contained sweeping attacks on immigrants. This included $20 billion to the border police and the re-writing of asylum law, making it drastically harder for millions to immigrate to the US. None of this was raised by Ocasio-Cortez or Hayes. Instead, making clear the purpose of the segment, the interview began with a chyron that read The Biden Success Story. A photo of a smiling Biden was displayed behind Hayes, accompanied by the phrase So Much Win. Beginning of AOC's interview with Chris Hayes on the "Biden Success Story." [Photo: MSNBC/All In with Chris Hayes] Earning his salary as a corporate lap dog for the Democratic Party, Hayes began the interview lamenting that young people and many under 30 in social media-dominated spaces had an intense doomerism, and kind of negativity. Hayes claimed that people did not know that weve actually had a few good years on climate stuff. Ocasio-Cortez agreed, saying that when you remind folks of that they think you are being a buzzkill for the buzzkills, but that It is important for us to communicate that we are winning! As a matter of fact, under capitalism, climate change continues to worsen, as evidenced currently by the massive fires in Chile and atmospheric rivers along the West Coast. Leaving no doubt to her purpose in conducting the interview, Ocasio-Cortez said, This isnt even about cheerleading the president, although, his leadership and willingness to work and make climate a priority is important to note. For the duration of the nearly eight minute interview, Ocasio-Cortez did not find it important to note Bidens leadership or willingness to work with his Republican colleagues to pass the border crackdown/war bill. Nor did she bring up Bidens leadership when it came to blocking UN ceasefire resolutions, defunding UNRWA, or bypassing Congress to provide weapons to the genocidal Zionist regime. Turning to the Republican impeachment drive against Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, Ocasio-Cortez said nothing about the fascistic Great Replacement Theory politics that undergird the Republican Party. Instead, she made light of the fact that Speaker Mike Johnson was not the Republicans first choice for speaker, and therefore did not have experience in party leadership. Near the end of the interview, she mentioned that Fox News peddled xenophobic border panic narratives, but she remained silent on Biden using similar language, including promising to shut down the border because it was overwhelmed. In the last minute of the interview, the topic of Gaza was finally broached, with Hayes asking Ocasio-Cortez how many Democrats she thought would vote against a stand-alone Israel aid package that did not include oversight and humanitarian aid to Gaza. Ocasio-Cortez refused to give an answer but instead claimed that the ceasefire protests were working. In reality, Democrats have ignored demands for a ceasefire for over 120 days, while at the same time slandering anti-genocide protesters, including hundreds of thousand of students, as antisemites. Leading Democrats, such as former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, have slandered protesters as agents of Putin and the Chinese Communist Party and called for the FBI to investigate demonstrators. Ocasio-Cortez said nothing about Pelosi smearing protesters. Instead, she nonsensically claimed that grassroots activism around a bilateral ceasefire is working, and that, there are far more members, than perhaps maybe publicly visible, that have a lot of trepidation around voting for an aid package that contains...no humanitarian aid. She added, I think we are crossing the Rubicon here in just no-holds-barred, completely unconditional aid to the Israeli government. We have Leahy Laws on the books that prevent US aid from funding gross human rights violations. Ocasio-Cortez concluded the interview by claiming that, among Democrats, the level of depravity in Gaza is becoming morally untenable to support. That is, it is not yet morally untenable for many Democrats. Ocasio-Cortezs latest interview confirms, again, that she is nothing but a standard Democratic Party politician, and that the DSA has nothing to do with socialism. Ocasio-Cortez and the DSA do not exist to push the ruling class to adopt more egalitarian and socialist policies, but to corral leftward moving youth and workers back into the graveyard of electoral politics and block the development of an independent revolutionary socialist movement that will sweep aside their rotten social order once and for all. COMPANY NEWS: Cybermindz.org, a not-for-profit pioneer in mental health solutions for cybersecurity professionals, today announced the launch of its revolutionary 12-month program, CISO Support, specifically tailored for Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) and cyber leaders confronting the daily risk of burnout. In what has become a war of attrition between global threat actors and cyber defenders, this is one battle we cant afford to lose. Cybermindz Founder Peter Coroneos* Cybersecurity, by its very nature, is a battleground of skill, knowledge and endurance. For those at the helm, like CISOs, the role is not just a job; its a 24x7 commitment to safeguarding digital systems and assets. Recognising the immense psychological toll this takes, Cybermindz has responded with CISOSupport - a program that goes beyond conventional support mechanisms to target the heart of CISO burnout - the emotional depletion, depersonalization and loss of self-efficacy that comes from fighting a relentless battle against highly motivated, well-resourced, but unseen forces. Cybermindz Founder Peter Coroneos explained the genesis of the preventative and restorative program. There is a growing body of anecdotal and hard evidence showing the toll cyber leadership pressures have on individuals and their families. Our own research is showing burnout rates exceeding those of frontline healthcare workers, and other studies are showing intended resignations from these roles of over 40% in the next 24 months. In 2023, we followed 180 cyber professionals through our 12 group Pilot Programs. After just 8 weeks, participants reported an average 27.3% overall stress reduction across ten metrics, a 30.7% increase in coping abilities, and a 50.8% decrease in feeling overwhelmed by difficulties. Mr Coroneos continued: Building on the insights we gained from those programs, we decided to create something specific for leaders who are carrying the biggest burden. We believe this is a world first, combining methodologies that have extensive research and application in the military and are now proven in cybersecurity. We are initially rolling this program out in Australia, followed by the US and the UK, where we established our presence in 2022 and 2023. We hope that doing this will have a meaningful impact on personal wellbeing and, by extension, organisational and society resilience. Director of Organisational and Behavioural Research, Dr Andrew Reeves** expanded on the urgency of the need: Research by Cybermindz and the University of Adelaide is demonstrating that CISOs bear the brunt of ever increasing pressures and unrealistic expectations coming from diverse vectors. The latest data suggests that CISOs are at imminent risk of burning out, and this heightened state frequently causes interruptions to their sleep and their personal lives and erodes their hope for the future. CISOSupport is designed with CISOs unique needs in mind. Specifically adapted from well-evidenced methods in military settings, Dr Reeves added, "this new offering of Cybermindz promises to be a key pivot point for embattled CISOs to reinforce themselves against the pressures inherent in their work. About the Program: CISOSupport brings together confidential, year-round, one-on-one mentorship with experienced mental health trainers informed in cybersecurity language and culture. It employs the groundbreaking Integrative Restoration (iRest) Dyad approach developed by acclaimed healthcare pioneer Dr Richard Miller and his team at the iRest Institute in California. The program is underpinned by a robust neuroscience-based framework, focusing on building resilience and mental clarity. It employs metrics on progress, ensuring trackable improvements in mental well-being for participants. For more information about the CISO Support program, please contact cisosupport@cybermindz.org or visit cybermindz.org/cisosupport About Cybermindz.org: Cybermindz.org is an Australian formed not-for-profit dedicated to providing mental health support tailored for the cybersecurity sector. Combining expertise in cybersecurity and mental health, Cybermindz.org is at the forefront of addressing the unique challenges faced by professionals in this field. *Peter Coroneos has longstanding leadership credentials in the cyber and technology sectors. Twice invited to the White House to advise the Obama Administration on cybersecurity policy, he served as chief executive of Australia's Internet Industry Association (from 1997-2011). He recently served as International VP of the Paris-based Cybersecurity Advisors Network. Peter led the development of the 2010 icode antibotnet scheme reaching near-ubiquitous coverage in Australia. The Obama Administration subsequently urged the development of a parallel program which, by 2012, had covered approximately 276 million US internet users. He was also a government-appointed leader of the industry delegation to Washington as part of the US/Australia bilaterals on critical infrastructure protection. Peter is also an accredited Integrative Restoration (iRest) teacher and practitioner of this and related disciplines since 1977. He is qualified in science, education and law. Jennifer Crumbley talks to her attorney Shannon Smith, Monday, Feb. 5, 2024 in Pontiac, Mich. [AP Photo/Carlos Osorio] Jennifer Crumbley, the mother of Oxford High School shooter Ethan Crumbley, was found guilty on all four counts of involuntary manslaughter by a jury on Tuesday in Pontiac, Michigan. The trial and its outcome mark the first time that a parent in the US has been criminally charged and convicted for the violent actions committed by his or her child. After 11 hours of deliberation, the 15-person jury and two alternates decided unanimously that Jennifer Crumbley, 45, was responsible for the deaths of four studentsMadisyn Baldwin, 17; Tate Myre, 16; Hana St. Juliana, 14; and Justin Shilling, 17who were shot and killed by her son in between classes on November 30, 2021. The jury verdict is the product of a two-year campaign waged by Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald, a Democrat, along with the corporate media locally and nationally, to place the focus blame for the horrifying school shooting carried out in the exurban community of Oxford, which is 40 miles north of Detroit, on the parents. The father and husband, James Crumbley, faces the same charges of four counts of involuntary manslaughter as his wife. His trial is scheduled to begin on March 5. That the Crumbleys behaved irresponsibly is evident from the facts that came out at the trial. The feeling, on the part of parents who lost children and others impacted by the mass shooting, that some level of justice has been achieved is understandable, but it is fundamentally wrong. Jennifer Crumbleys criminal conviction sets a reactionary and dangerous legal precedent. It is part of an effort by the political and judicial establishment to absolve themselves of any responsibility for the broader conditions behind school shootings and deflect attention from the fundamental, underlying social causes of the increasing number of such incidents across the country. Among the actions taken by the Crumbleys that facilitated the 15-year-old Ethans crime was buying him a 9mm SIG Sauer semi-automatic handgun as a Christmas gift just four days before he used it to carry out the school shooting. Video presented to the jury showed Jennifer Crumbley and her son at a local shooting range. In the footage, Ethan is smiling as he discharges the weapon and then shows his mother how to fire it. Illustrating her cavalier attitude toward possession of a deadly weapon, Jennifer later that day posted on Instagram, Mom and son day my first time shooting a 9mm. I hit the bullseye. The evidence presented to the jury also showed that Ethan was able to bring the loaded gun to Oxford High School because the Crumbleys failed to secure the weapon and ammunition in their home. When Jennifer was asked during her testimony about the negligent handling of the weapon, she said, Thats his thing, referring to her husband. When Jennifer testified, she expressed the wish that her son had acted differently, but said that looking back, she would not have changed her parenting decisions. In her closing argument, Prosecutor McDonald presented the jury with a video surveillance image showing Jennifer Crumbley walking out of the shooting range with the 9mm SIG Sauer handgun in a case. After the verdict, the jury foreperson commented on this photo and told CNN, The thing that really hammered it home is that she was the last adult with the gun. During the testimony by 21 witnesses for the prosecution, it was shown that Ethan was in a deteriorating mental condition and his mother was either completely unaware of his problems or ignored them. The prosecutors exploited this situation and argued that Jennifer did not act in the critical moments before the shooting in ways that could have stopped it from happening. A significant portion of testimony by prosecution witnesses focused on a meeting that took place at the school on the morning of the shooting, at which the Crumbleys were in attendance. When the parents were presented with pictures drawn by their son depicting bloody gun violence and accompanied by the words, The thoughts wont stop, Help me, the parents did not mention that Ethan had access to a gun and argued that he should not be taken home that day because they had to return to work. Jennifer Crumbley remained in the meeting for exactly 11 minutes. It is quite possible that the unprecedented decision to file criminal charges against the parents of an under-age school shooter was at least in part driven by the belief that the behavior of Jennifer and James Crumbley was so patently irresponsible that a jury could be convinced to find them criminally liable for the actions of their son. Defense attorney Shannon Smith confined her arguments to claiming that Jennifer Crumbley was a hypervigilant but imperfect parent, who could not have foreseen what her son was going to do. Smith attempted to present a picture of the Crumbleys as doing normal stuff with their son, such as playing games and going on vacation together. Defense attorney Smith never talked about the Oxford High School shooting within the context of the years of mass shootings in the US or referred to any studies showing widespread instances of mental illness and depression among American teenagers. Since 2008, there have been 512 school shootings in the US, and nearly half of this number have occurred since 2021, according to data published by CNN based on incidents reported by the Gun Violence Archive, Everytown for Gun Safety and Education Week. School shootings have occurred in all but five US states during this time frame. There has been a steady and dramatic increase in the number of school shootings each year, including 82 in 2023. The only year with a significant decrease in shootings was 2020, when many students were not in school for months due to the pandemic. In 2022, there were 46 fatalities in 79 school shooting incidents, including the horrifying massacre at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas where 19 students and two teachers were killed. None of the causes for the increasing number of school shootings in the US, driven by a combination of poverty, war, police violence, the availability of guns, extreme right-wing politics and racism, and untreated psychological problems, were brought up by Jennifer Crumbleys lawyer. In the end, attorney Smith blamed Ethan Crumbley exclusively, referring to him as a master manipulator who duped his mother while he plotted the school shooting. After he surrendered to police on the day of the shooting, Ethan Crumbley was charged as an adult on 24 counts, including first degree premeditated murder. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to life in prison without parole on December 8, 2023. The negligent behavior of the Crumbleys prior to the deadly shooting by their son at Oxford High School is itself bound up with socioeconomic and cultural conditions in the US. After Ethan was born, near Jacksonville, Florida in 2006, the family first moved to Issaquah, Washington in pursuit of work. At the time of the shooting, Jennifer worked as marketing coordinator for a local real estate business and James was unemployed. As the World Socialist Web Site explained within days of the shooting: In 2016, Crumbleys mother, Jennifer Crumbley, a realtor, wrote an open letter to incoming President Donald Trump, whom she voted for. In her confused and desperate letter, Crumbley describes her familys economic existence as part of the American lower-middle class. The world Ms. Crumbley describes is a world of perpetual economic anxiety and desperation. But with this is mixed backwardness, cultural poverty and historical ignorance that Trump and his movement feed on. Nor should one discount the acquittal of Kyle Rittenhouse and the glorification of his example by the right-wing media, which took place just two weeks before the shooting at Oxford High School. The response of the corporate television news to the Crumbley verdict has been one of enthusiasm, largely referring to the conviction as a historic step forward and victory for accountability for mass shootings. Kris Brown, president of Brady: United Against Gun Violence, a Washington-based nonprofit, told the Wall Street Journal, Todays decision sends a powerful message to parents and other parties that they can be responsible for their actions that foreseeably contribute to gun violence even if they dont pull the trigger. Browns organization has filed civil suits on behalf of a family against both the gun dealer who sold the handgun to James Crumbley and the school district. Kevin Cole, a professor at the University of San Diego School of Law, told the Journal: Theres a potential to have accomplice liability when a merchant sells an item to a person who uses the item to commit an offense, for instance. The conventional rule was that unless the accomplice had a purpose or a conscious object, that the crime be committed, you werent responsible as an accomplice. Jeffrey Swartz, a criminal law professor at Cooley Law School in Lansing, Michigan, told the Journal the conviction sets a dangerous precedent. Anything in your house that could be a weapon, could be a basis for you to be held liable if your child did anything to someone else. Detroit criminal defense attorney Michael Bullotta, a former federal prosecutor, told the Detroit Free Press, This was a guilty verdict in a case that I, along with several national pundits, have viewed as a major overreach in applying the law of involuntary manslaughter. Bullotta continued: Now that we have an example in the books of what facts are enough to subject parents to 15 years or more in prison, I expect that prosecutors in Michigan and nationwide will consider charging parents, not only in school shootings but in many other crimes their children commit. It is quite frightening to imagine where this precedent will lead. The political contours of Sarah Wagenknechts new party are becoming increasingly clear. Following the partys official foundation on January 8, the Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW) held its first national conference on January 27 and presented a 20-page manifesto for the European elections. Oskar Lafontaine speaks at the BSW party conference [Photo by BSW youtube (screenshot)] The conference took place against the backdrop of the deepest international crisis in capitalist society since the end of the Second World War. The German government is preparing for a third imperialist world war and is arming to a degree not seen since Hitler. It is waging war against Russia, supporting the genocide of the Palestinians in Gaza and helping the US to ignite a conflagration in the Middle East and prepare for a nuclear confrontation with China. The new party aims to contain the growing opposition to this insane pro-war policy and to suppress the class struggle that stands in the way of the ruling class war plans. It spouts some pacifist phrases and blathers on about social justice, but its real programme is militaristic and anti-working class. The party is aimed at the so-called hard-working middle class, trade union officials and members of the state security apparatus. In her conference speech, Wagenknecht spoke about the different social milieus from which the 450 delegates came, all carefully selected by the party leadership to avoid controversy. The first people she mentioned were trade unionists, works council representatives and successful entrepreneurs, nurses and police officers. Pay attention to the order! For years, trade union officials and works council reps have served as well-paid company policemen, relied upon by the corporations to smoothly implement wage cuts and redundancies. Police officers embody the armed force of the state apparatus, which is used to suppress social resistance. The mention of nurses, on the other hand, merely serves as a fig leaf. Wagenknechts party strictly opposes coronavirus protection measures, whose absence has meant workers and nurses in particular have had to suffer. The BSW even retrospectively denounces the governments completely inadequate measures in the initial phase of the pandemic as political authoritarianism. The BSWs European election manifesto is a right-wing, pro-capitalist programme. There is nothing in it that could not be found in the same or a similar form in the programmes of the Christian Democrats (CDU), Social Democrats (SPD), Liberal Democrats (FDP), Greens or even the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). Insofar as it criticises the European Union, it does so not from the left, from the standpoint of the common interests of the European working class, but from the right, from the standpoint of the national interests of the corporations and banks. The BSW wants to maintain the EU in order to defend European imperialism against its international rivals, including the US. We want to contribute to the European Unions return to its political, economic and security autonomy, the programme states. Europe must become an independent player on the world stage instead of being a pawn in the conflict between the major powers and subordinating itself to the interests of the USA. It goes without saying that such security policy independence for Europe requires a strong army in a world that is increasingly characterised by war and trade wars. The programme explicitly warns that Europe will become the loser due to its geographical location and its dependence on raw materials, energy sources and export markets.The commitment to a peaceful Europe in a multipolar world and phrases about disarmament, detente, peaceful conflict resolution and diplomacy, which can also be found in the programme, are merely decorative accessories. It is significant that there is no mention of NATO at all, let alone a call for the dissolution of the worlds most aggressive military alliance. The programme also expressly upholds the common European foreign and defence policy (CFSP and CSDP). It merely demands that the principle of unanimity for international European military missions and they be subject to German parliamentary approval. Within the EU, the Wagenknecht party wants to strengthen the nation states. It is in favour of the EU single market, but wants to restrict the free movement of workersi.e., the right of workers to work in the country of their choosingwhich it holds responsible for poor wages, precarious employment and poverty. Instead of uniting European workers in the fight against cuts in wages and social spending, the Wagenknecht party is trying to divide them by blaming competition from their European fellow workersand not the profit motive of the corporationsfor falling living standards. The BSWs stance on refugees and immigrants most clearly shows the reactionary core of its politics. It is no different from the posture of the AfD and other fascist parties. The election manifesto states that a completely misguided immigration policy has created Islamist-influenced parallel societies in which law and order only apply to a limited extent, Sharia law is preached, and children grow up hating Western culture. It calls for a fundamental reform of refugee and immigration policy and is in favour of asylum procedures at external borders and in third countries. The BSWs economic programme focuses on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which it describes as the engine of the European and especially the German economy and for which it calls for subsidies and protective customs measures. It rails against Anglo-Saxon-influenced Blackrock capitalism, which has replaced the once strong European welfare states, but does so exclusively from the perspective of small capital, which feels crushed by big capital. There are no serious measures against the power of hedge funds and banks in the programme, let alone calls for their expropriation. Even taxes on corporate profits and wealth are only minimally increased in the BSW programme. For example, the programme complains that corporate tax rates have fallen by more than half since the 1980s to their current level of 24 percent, only to demand a minimum tax rate on corporate profits of 25 percent three paragraphs lateri.e., 1 percent more. The BSWs European election programme is so right-wing and repulsive that the party conference directors invited the now 80-year-old ex-Social Democrat Oskar Lafontaine to deliver the closing speech. Lafontaine went to great lengths; railing against rearmament, the war against Russia, social injustice and the policies of the German government. He tried to persuade his audience that Germany could be transformed into a prosperous capitalist paradise if only common sense were to prevail in politics. If the government politicians had not lost their minds, if they had not gone insane, if the stupidest government in history had not led the country into the abyss, everything would be in perfect order, he claimed. One waits in vain for Lafontaine to explain the causes of the social crisis. He rejects the idea that it has anything to do with the capitalist social system, which is bankrupt not only in Germany but worldwide. Like a used car dealer who sells his customers a run-down beater as a flawless top model, he endlessly recycles old political recipes that have long since failed: All you had to do was return to the economic policy of Ludwig Erhard (CDU) and the foreign policy of Willy Brandt (SPD)and Germany would become an island of bliss, is his message. Lafontaine is an expert at selling the most right-wing policies with left-wing phrases. Before founding the Left Party together with Gregor Gysi in 2007as the eventual successor to the Stalinist party of state in the former East Germanyhe held top party and government positions in the SPD for 40 years. As mayor of Saarbrucken, he introduced forced labour for welfare recipients, as minister president of Saarland he quietly wound up the coal mining and steel industries, as SPD national chairman he helped Gerhard Schroder become chancellor, and go on to take post-war Germanys armed forces into their first foreign combat missions, while imposing welfare cuts at home. With the Left Party, he continued the policy of social cuts under a pseudo-left guisewith disastrous social consequences. Now, Lafontaine, who married Sahra Wagenknecht in 2014, is founding his third party. But this time his hoax will not succeed. The lies and illusions he is spreading are bursting faster than soap bubbles. Anyone who wants to confront the threat of war and militarism and stop social decline must fight for the overthrow of capitalism. And there is only one way to do this: The mobilisation and unification of the international working class on the basis of a socialist programme. This is what the Sozialistische Gleichheitspartei (Socialist Equality Party) stands for. It is contesting the European elections in order to win workers and young people throughout Europe for this perspective together with its sister parties in the Fourth International. It is fighting for a United Socialist States of Europe. Members of the Supreme Court sit for a group portrait following the addition of Associate Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, at the Supreme Court building in Washington, Octobert 7, 2022. [AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite] The US Supreme Court heard more than two hours of oral argument Thursday over whether the state of Colorado could exclude fascist ex-president Donald Trump from the presidential ballot because of his role in the January 6, 2021 attack on Congress. The mob assault was aimed at shutting down the congressional certification of Trumps defeat in the 2020 elections and creating the conditions for Trump to remain in the White House as a dictator-president. It very nearly succeeded. The hearing, which discussed the possibility of removing the frontrunner for the Republican nomination from the ballot, not only in Colorado but nationally, underscores the deepening crisis of the US political system. But the Supreme Court justices seemed entirely averse to discussing the fundamental issue of what happened on January 6, what Trumps role in the attack was, and whether Section three of the 14th Amendment to the US Constitution, which bars insurrectionists from holding federal office, applied to him. The colloquy was between the nine justices and three lawyersone representing Trump, one representing the six plaintiffs who sued against Trump appearing on the ballot, and one representing the Colorado secretary of state, the top state election official. For most of the hearing, it was truly Hamlet without the prince, with endless hairsplitting over legal technicalities, and no discussion of the January 6 insurrection and the wider threat to American democracy. Members of the fascistic Oath Keepers on the East Front of the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, in Washington. [AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta] During the first hour, when Trumps attorney Jonathan Mitchell was taking questions from the justices, January 6 only came up as the final issue raised by Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, at the conclusion of Mitchells questioning. She asked Mitchell whether January 6 qualifies as insurrection as defined by Section three. Mitchell: We never considered this was an insurrection. What we said is President Trump did not engage in any act that could possibly be characterized as insurrection. Jackson: What is your argument that it is not? Your reply [brief] saysI think you say it did not involve any organized attempt to overthrow the government. Mitchell: That is one of many reasons. There needs to be an organized effort to overthrow the United States through violence. Jackson: A chaotic effort is not an insurrection? Mitchell: We did not concede it was an effort to overthrow the government. It was shameful, but it did not qualify as insurrection as that term is used in Section three. This was the sole discussion by the court of the significance of January 6 in the entire 150-minute hearing. Attorney Jason Murray, representing six voters in Colorado, four of them Republicans, several of them former elected officials, sought to bring the argument back to January 6 in his brief opening statement. His first words were: Mr. Chief Justice, we are here because the first time since 1812, our nations capital came under violent assault. The attack was incited by a sitting president of the United States to disrupt the transfer of presidential power. Engaging in insurrection against the Constitution, President Trump disqualified himself from public office. No justice chose to follow up by challenging this characterization of Trumps role. Instead, they turned to bombarding Murray with technical questions relating to the language of Section three. In his opening statement Murray responded to one such issue, saying, As we heard, President Trumps main argument is this court should create a special exception to Section three that one apply to him and him alone. He was referring to claims by Trumps lawyer that because the oath sworn by the president and the oath described in Section three are slightly different, any president who swore only the presidential oath was not covered by that passage in the Constitution. This exemption would apply only to George Washington, the first president, whose service in the revolutionary army came before adoption of the Constitution, and Trump, the only president never to have held any state, federal or military office before entering the White House. Most of the oral argument revolved around such legal minutiae, with Trumps attorney arguing, among other things, that the president is not an officer under the Constitution, as specified in Section three, that Section three is not self-executing and requires federal legislation to permit a state to use it, and that Section three bans insurrectionists only from taking office, not from running for office, and therefore cannot be applied to ballot status. In one exchange with Justice Brett Kavanaugh, Mitchell conceded that Trump is arguing that a state has no power to penalize him for the January 6 insurrection, that the only remedy is federal prosecution, but at the same time he is arguing, in a separate case now also headed for the Supreme Court, that as a former president he is immune from federal prosecution. In other words, he is completely above the law. Press commentaries on the oral argument noted the demeanor of the justices, particularly the three appointed by Democratic presidents, who appeared unwilling to challenge the pro-Trump narrative voiced in the questions of the six right-wing justices appointed by Republican presidents, including three by Trump himself. There appeared to be a consensus on settling the case on the narrowest possible grounds, avoiding January 6 altogether, and ruling that states could not intervene in a federal election for president, which was inherently a national political question to be decided by Congress. Justice Elena Kagan, appointed by Barack Obama, told Murray, I think the question that you have to confront is why a single state should decide who gets to be president of the United States. In other words, this question of whether a former president is disqualified for insurrection. It sounds awfully national to me. Chief Justice John Roberts said, referring to the after-effects of a Trump disqualification, I would expect that a goodly number of states will say: Whoever the Democratic candidate is, youre off the ballot. Thats a pretty daunting consequence. Roberts also observed that Section three of the 14th Amendment was enacted to empower the federal government to bar former Confederate states from electing prominent ex-Confederates to high office. It was at war with the position advanced by Colorado, which asserted the right of individual states to exert control over federal election, he said. There are fatal flaws in the arguments by Roberts, Kagan and others that there should be a uniform policy applied in all 50 states and that Colorados actions challenged that. First of all, Colorado was seeking precisely a decision by the Supreme Court that would apply to all 50 states. Until that issue was decided, the state Supreme Court stayed its own decision, and Trump is on the ballot in Colorado for the March 5 Super Tuesday primary elections. Secondly, as the Socialist Equality Party has long and bitter experience, there is no uniformity applied to ballot access requirements in the various states when it comes to candidates running outside the two-party system. One state may allow independent candidates and third parties to obtain ballot status with relative ease, even while the majority of states use arcane procedural rules and onerous signature requirements to make ballot access difficult, even impossible. The consensus on the necessity for uniform rules applies only to the two major capitalist parties, which are nowhere mentioned in the US Constitution, but which enjoy a virtual political monopoly in terms of ballot access, media publicity, fundraising and the holding of elective office. The Democrats and Republicans are accorded semi-official status, and any threat to their dominance, such as the exclusion of Trump from the ballot, is treated as presumptively illegal and unconstitutional by the high court. One of the most right-wing justices, Samuel Alito, painted the most dire picture of the consequences of keeping Trump off the ballot. It would seem to me, he said, if the Colorado position is upheld, surely the consequences of what the Colorado Supreme Court did, as some people claim, would be quite severe. He raised implicitly the possibility of civil war, asking whether military commanders could disobey orders from the commander-in-chief if they decided that the president was engaged in an insurrection. He also hinted that similar charges could be brought against other presidents under a clause in Section three that excludes anyone from office who has given aid or comfort to the enemies of the United States. This could disqualify a president who authorizes the distribution of funds to a country that proclaims again and again and again that the United States is its enemy, he said. It was a clear reference to fascistic claims that Obama and Biden gave money to Iran as part of various deals to curb Irans nuclear power program. The money was actually the property of Iran, obtained from selling oil, but frozen in the accounts of Western banks under US-imposed sanctions. Many business leaders remain unprepared for quantum computing due to its relatively nascent stage of development. Differing from their conventional counterparts, quantum computers process information using quantum bits, commonly known as qubits, which possess very different qualities than conventional computer bits. Quantum computing presents a multitude of advantages to businesses by enhancing operational efficiency and facilitating advanced data analysis at speed and scale. However, among their many potential use cases is the ability to break current data encryption methods which form the foundation of digital data security. Consequently, organisations in particular financial institutions (FIs) - must take immediate action to fortify their information security systems by adopting Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC). This proactive step is essential to establish resilience in the face of such emerging threats. Firms Must Prepare Now Estimates of when quantum computing will be able to break current encryption methods range from 5 to 30 years. While current quantum computers have considerable limitations, including hardware that is incredibly difficult to build and maintain, significant investments from powerful nations and tech giants could expedite progress, potentially creating quantum computers that might render current encryption methods obsolete very quickly. Back in 2019, Google claimed "quantum supremacy," solving a problem in seconds that would take classical computers millennia. Such breakthroughs resemble the trajectory of artificial intelligence (AI) advancement and could experience rapid acceleration. In addition, threat actors are already preparing for a post-quantum world, collecting encrypted data that can be decrypted in the future as part of a strategy dubbed, "harvest now, decrypt later". Employing this strategy, malicious actors extract large amounts of encrypted data and retain it until they can break the encryption using quantum computers. Such attacks enabled by quantum capabilities might substantially jeopardise the confidentiality and security of the global financial system, as well as that of its customers. These accelerating developments mean that the private as well as public sectors must begin preparing for a post-quantum future. Australia has taken significant steps on this front, with the Australian federal government unveiling the National Quantum Strategy - a comprehensive roadmap that prioritises research, essential infrastructure access, a skilled workforce, robust standards, and ethical inclusivity to solidify Australia's status as a frontrunner in the quantum technology landscape. Moreover, according to a CSIRO report, Australia's quantum tech potential could reach $2.2 billion and generate 8,700 jobs by 2030, increasing to nearly $6 billion and 19,400 jobs by 2045. Australian quantum enterprises already draw noteworthy venture capital funding, claiming a 3.6% slice of global quantum venture capital between 2017 and 2021, surpassing international rivals. Globally, a substantial increase is expected in the technologys use within the next five years, necessitating organisations to adapt even as they await regulatory guidelines. A recent report from EY Quantum Computing Lab, part of the Global Innovation team, underscores the importance of businesses preparing for action and highlights the potential for a competitive edge among early adopters. According to McKinsey, global funding for quantum computing startups increased by 13.5% last year to $1.1 billion, with China planning to invest $15.3 billion and the European Union $7.2 billion in the industry. Meeting the Challenge - State of Play In preparation for the post-quantum era, substantial efforts are underway to create robust tools, technologies, and algorithms to combat this emerging threat. This includes sophisticated post-quantum encryption algorithms, which are specifically designed to counter potential threats posed by quantum computers. Furthermore, quantum-safe blockchain technology bolsters cyberattack resilience in contrast to centralised systems, while quantum key distribution leverages principles from quantum mechanics to guarantee secure and tamper-proof communication. Achieving Post-Quantum Preparedness While the complete impact of quantum computing on cyber and business risk in financial services and other sectors is uncertain, it is important for organisations to understand their ability to react to and be ready for changes in the PQC landscape. This entails developing protocols that secure data against both quantum and classical computers and interoperate with existing practices. To help FIs and other organisations prepare for a post-quantum future, FS-ISAC - through its Post-Quantum Cryptography Working Group - has put together a framework to building post-quantum resilience. Create a comprehensive list of existing encryption resources: Establishing a complete catalogue of cryptographic assets and their respective purposes empowers an organisation to preemptively recognise the risks associated with advances in PQC, allowing the company to maintain agility in its cryptographic practices. Develop a risk assessment framework and assess all potential risks: Establish an organisation-wide framework to comprehend and evaluate potential threats arising from quantum computing. This facilitates clear risk communication among stakeholders and aligns security and operational goals. Then, enumerate all assets, threats, vulnerabilities, and the potential consequences of security breaches or data incidents. The outcome of this risk assessment should encompass a comprehensive inventory of risks, measures to counter these identified risks, and action plans for mitigation. Apply a risk model: Given the limited understanding of risks arising from cryptographically relevant quantum computers (CRQC), the advised approach is to promptly devise multiple risk scenarios tailored to particular assets, some of which are deemed "more probable" than others. After identifying and ranking these potential risk scenarios, take proactive steps to mitigate the highest-impact risks as a priority. Vendor evaluation: Incorporate preparations for Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) needs in vendor planning. Enhance existing risk assessment protocols and legal/contractual frameworks to encompass PQC specifications. Organisations should also actively educate vendors about PQC advancements. Financial Institutions and Organisations Must Act Now While there is no need for panic, rapid advancements in quantum research call for early adoption of quantum-resistant measures. Access to quantum technology is expected to become more widely available and less concentrated in the hands of government, academia and Big Tech in the near future, though how near we cannot know. In response, FS-ISACs Post-Quantum Cryptography Working Group has produced publicly available white papers, guiding FIs and other organisations to initiate their post-quantum strategies. As technology continues to advance, institutions must not only keep pace but also fortify their quantum resilience strategies. This demands a comprehensive approach that encompasses intelligence sharing, knowledge dissemination, practising incident response scenarios, and a fundamental shift in mindset to give paramount importance to quantum-related risks. The journey to achieve resilience against these emerging threats begins now, with FIs laying the groundwork for quantum resilience to confidently navigate the intricate landscape of post-quantum threats that lie ahead. About the author, Lachlan Pope: Lachlan is an Entrepreneur, having started a number of successful businesses with a BSC-Applied Psychology and an MBA. In his 20+ year career, he has worked primarily in the FMCG, Finance, and Health Sectors. The common link has been fulfilling leadership roles that drive businesses forward by valuing each individual relationship and creating a culture of success. MATTOON Declared "uninhabitable" by the city, the abandoned house at 4700 Carter Lane is one of the approximately 8,000 properties in Mattoon that students and volunteers looked at last fall for a housing condition survey. More volunteers are needed to survey the remaining 1,200 unrecorded properties as the city prepares for a March 14 public meeting on its housing development efforts. These efforts include identifying rundown houses that need to be demolished, like the one on Carter Lane, or can be rehabilitated. This "uninhabitable" house south of the Lake Land Student Housing apartments has deteriorated while being open to the elements, but city Community Development and Planning Director Alex Benishek said there are other dilapidated houses in town that could be fixed up with the help of grants. "We are going to figure out how we can get those properties back in productive use on the tax rolls," Benishek said said of the city's efforts, which also include research into options for encouraging the construction of new housing. The city has been working with the Mattoon in Motion housing committee on this. To help with the walking survey of the approximately 8,896 housing properties and more than 400 commercial properties in Mattoon, the city turned to Lake Land College Math/Science Department Chair Mike Rudibaugh. He is an earth science/geographic information system instructor. Rudibaugh said he then recruited Lake Land student Preston Miller, Eastern Illinois University students Jakob Reed and Evie Rudibaugh (his daughter) to take on this mapping project. "They were able to get work experience and utilize it for a classroom research project," Rudibaugh said. The students joined with volunteers to walk Mattoon's neighborhoods and use their cellphones to record housing conditions via an app provided by the Illinois Housing Development Authority. They looked at the conditions of the structures and yards, plus the adjacent streets and sidewalks. Benishek said the students were able to work as paid interns suing $12,000 from an $80,000 donation that the Mattoon Area Industrial Development group made to the city when it dissolved. With this funding earmarked for the city's housing development efforts, the Mattoon City Council voted Tuesday night to allocate $40,000 for conducting a housing market study and gap analysis with the help of Partner Valuation Advisors. Benishek said the funding from Mattoon Area Industrial Development and the work of the student interns and volunteers made it possible for the city to complete 90% of the housing condition survey last fall. "There is no way we could have gotten this much done without the students," Benishek said. He noted that the city's information gathering efforts also included an online housing survey of Mattoon community members last fall that drew approximately 600 responses. With the housing town hall meeting scheduled for 6 p.m. March 14 at the Elevate entrepreneur center at the Cross County Mall, Benishek said the city is now seeking volunteers to help complete the remaining 10% of the condition survey. He said the training to use the survey app can be completed in minutes. Those interested in helping with this effort can contact Benishek at City Hall at 217-234-7367 or BenishekA@mattoonillinois.org. Early voting begins Thursday. Dont forget to take a picture ID with you when you go to vote, either early or on Election Day, March 5. For the elections this year, voters are required to show a photo ID in order to cast a vote. In April 2023, the N.C. Supreme Court voted 5-2, that a photo ID mandate approved by the GOP-controlled legislature in late 2018 could be enforced in time for 2024, according to an AP story. For most North Carolina residents, it will just be a matter of showing their North Carolina drivers license. Here are the rules for photo ID voting from the N.C. State Board of Elections: You can get an ID exception form and vote a provisional ballot. You must list your reason for not showing an ID. You can vote with a provisional ballot as long as you show the county board of elections your photo ID by the day before the county vote canvass. If a voter has a reasonable impediment from getting a photo ID, the voter will still be allowed to cast a ballot. The voter will have a list of reasons they do not have an ID on the exception form and have to check their reason. Reasons for not having a photo ID: Lack of transportation Disability or illness Lack of birth certificate or other documents needed to obtain ID Work or school schedule Family responsibilities Photo ID is lost, stolen or misplaced Applied for photo ID but have not received it (For mail voters only) Unable to attach a copy of photo ID (Voter must include drivers license number or last four digits of Social Security number) Other reasonable impediment (if selected, the voter must write the reason on the form) If you vote by mail, you will have to include a photocopy of an acceptable form of ID with your ballot or complete an ID exception form. County boards of elections must count provisional ballots that have properly filled out ID exception forms. Voters who are 65 or older can use an expired ID if it was valid before their 65th birthday. For voters who do not have a photo ID, they can get a free ID from NCDMV or from your county board of elections office. According to the N.C. State Board of Elections, more than 500 communities in North Carolina will have municipal elections this year to elect mayors and council members. There are other forms of identification that will be acceptable, including a state ID card from the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles, a U.S. passport or passport card, college or university student ID approved by the NCSBE or state or local government or charter school employee ID approved by the NCSBE. Also, military or veterans ID cards from the U.S. government, tribal enrollment cards from a tribe recognized by the state or federal government and ID cards issued by the state or federal government for a public assistance program. When voters check in to vote, the election workers will check to see if the picture on the ID reasonably resembles the voter. The address on the photo ID does not have to match the voter registration records, according to the NCSBE website. With North Carolina becoming an increasingly attractive destination, the adults in the Gen Z age group are definitely on the bandwagon. Gen Z typically is defined as people born between 1996 and 2012 with the oldest members at or approaching age 28. North Carolina ranked fourth in net migration of Gen Zers during 2022 with 33,690, according to an analysis of the U.S. Census Bureaus 2022 American Community Survey by research firm Zillow. The census narrowed the Gen Z year range to 1996 to 2004 an age group that represented 71.9% of the 46,852 who came here during 2022. Texas led the country with incoming Gen Zers, followed by California and Florida. Zillow said its analysis determined that Gen Z may prioritize job opportunities and sunshine over affordability when relocating. More than three-quarters of Gen Z adults who moved to these pricier states are renting (77%). Compared to all interstate movers, Gen Z adults on average were more likely to have a four-year college degree, more likely to be serving in the military and more likely to work in tech, explained Edward Berchick, a principal population scientist at Zillow. Gen Z movers are likely drawn to the job opportunities in these states despite the higher costs of housing. They may also be in a stage of life where theyre willing and able to be flexible in their standards of living while starting their careers. Economists have said that North Carolinas continuing popularity as a destination may play a pivotal role in the state filling thousands of advanced manufacturing jobs set to be created over the next five years. North Carolina ranked high in the annual reports of the five national moving companies Allied Van Lines, Atlas Van Lines, North American Van Lines U-Haul and United Van Lines that tracked customers arrivals and departures in each state. North Carolinas highest ranking was No. 2 in the Atlas survey along with No. 3 with North American and U-Haul. According to population estimates released in late December by the U.S. Census Bureau, North Carolina had a net gain of 139,526 residents from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023 positioning the state at ninth place overall with 10.8 million people. Only Texas (net gain of 473,453) and Florida (365,205) had a bigger population growth. Michael Walden, an economics professor at N.C. State, said that continued in-migration will help the state generate labor for our expanding economy. It is a big reason why North Carolina wont endure as severe of labor shortages in the future as other states. However, Walden cautioned that while more people (moving) in the state is good for many reasons greater business opportunities, expanded innovation, more workers, increased variety, and enhanced national prominence one negative could be increased costs, particularly for housing. Mark Vitner, chief economist with Piedmont Crescent Capital, said people flocking here is typically driven by quality-of-life issues, a strong economy being one of them. North Carolina continues to possess many qualities that are attractive to people, both from other parts of the country and abroad, said John Quinterno, principal with South by North Strategies Ltd., a Chapel Hill research company specializing in economic and social policy. At a certain point, success begets more success, he said. For instance, immigrant communities take root, retirement centers grow and extended family members move to be closer to their grandchildren or siblings. In a world where remote work is a real option for many people, North Carolinas place-based attributes may be even more appealing. Two more women have accused Jonathan Majors of physical and emotional abuse. Two former girlfriends, Emma Duncan and Maura Hooper, accused the "Creed III" actor of abuse in a new report from The New York Times published Thursday, following the actor's conviction for assaulting and harassing ex-girlfriend Grace Jabbari in December. The Times investigation also revealed a history of "volatility" on the set of HBO's "Lovecraft Country," in which Majors starred as Atticus Freeman, including contention with female co-workers that led to complaints to the network. A rep for both Duncan and Hooper, who is familiar with the situation but not authorized to speak publicly, confirmed the accuracy of the New York Times report to USA TODAY Friday. Majors' attorney Priya Chaudhry described his past relationships with Duncan and Hooper as a "love triangle" and "toxic" but denied allegations of abuse and knowledge of complaints from co-workers on the set of "Lovecraft Country," in an emailed statement to USA TODAY Friday. USA TODAY has reached out to HBO for comment. Jonathan Majors has been accused of physical and emotional abuse by two former girlfriends in a new report, following his December assault conviction. The four-month Times investigation includes accounts from 20 people who knew or worked with Majors, including some identified anonymously out of fear of career repercussions, as well as statements submitted to the prosecution in Majors' assault trial. Rolling Stone in June published a similar report, detailing allegations of abuse toward former classmates, crew members and former romantic partners over the course of a decade. In the Times report, Duncan accused Majors of throwing her around, choking her and bruising her. Hooper alleges she endured emotional abuse from Majors. Both dated Majors before his rise to fame and described him as a controlling and threatening figure in their lives, isolating them from friends and career pursuits. Actor Jonathan Majors arrives at court for a trial on his domestic violence case, Monday, Dec. 4, 2023, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura) In one of several instances of violence early on in their relationship, Duncan alleged, during a July 2016 trip to Chautauqua, New York, the former couple had an argument where Majors threatened to strangle and kill her. She alleged in that same month, when she visited Majors in Sante Fe, New Mexico, a violent altercation occurred in a hotel room when she began packing to leave. Duncan accused Majors of pushing her into a couch, choking her and telling her he was "going to kill" her. She said he then threw her across the room and said, "I'm going to make sure you can't have children." Duncan accuses the actor of picking her up and slamming her body into a mailbox at their Harlem, New York, apartment in October 2016, causing bruising, she said. After the incident, as well as others, Majors threatened to kill himself, she claimed. Hooper claimed that, while she was dating Majors, he was controlling about where she could go, who she spoke with and how she behaved. She alleges the actor did not allow her to speak to anyone about their relationship and threatened suicide at one point when she learned of an affair. Hooper alleged when she got pregnant a few months into their relationship, she scheduled an abortion. When Majors took her to the medical clinic, which had a policy that required an escort home after the procedure, he did not come to pick her up, she alleged. When Hooper called him, she said, he told her he was going to a rehearsal. Jonathan Majors returns to court after a lunch break in his domestic assault trial on Dec. 5, 2023, in New York. Hooper also claimed a year after the couple broke up when Majors found out she was dating someone he knew, he called her and, in an argument, told her he hoped she would kill herself and said he was "going rip you out of my heart the way they ripped our baby out of you." Majors denied the physical abuse accusations in a statement shared by his attorney to USA TODAY. He also denied some of the emotional abuse accusations and did not recall the exact details of others. He described the relationships as "mutually emotionally volatile," adding that he is "choosing to take responsibility for his role" in the "toxic" relationships. "Looking back, he is embarrassed by some of his jealous behavior and has been addressing these personal, lifelong depression issues with counseling," wrote Chaudhry in an email shared with USA TODAY Friday. Additionally, three female crew members from the set of "Lovecraft Country" are said to have submitted a complaint to HBO about Majors' behavior on set, including that the actor was argumentative, treated them differently than male colleagues and that he, in one instance, made a derogative, racially charged comment about her appearance, and in another case, told a crew member she did not belong on the set. Chaudhry also provided photos to the Times and USA TODAY, in an effort to prove his relationships with Duncan and one of the "Lovecraft Country" crew members after the alleged incidents were "friendly." If you are a victim of domestic violence, The National Domestic Violence Hotline (thehotline.org) allows you to speak confidentially with trained advocates online or by the phone, which they recommend for those who think their online activity is being monitored by their abuser (800-799-7233). They can help survivors develop a plan to achieve safety for themselves and their children. Contributing: Morgan Hines This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Jonathan Majors accused of abuse by 2 more women in new report Bill Nighy (Living, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel) and Jojo Rabbits Roman Griffin Davis will star in road movie 500 Miles from director Morgan Matthews (X+Y, Williams), which Beta Cinema will start selling at the Berlin Film Festivals European Film Market. The Origin Pictures, Port Pictures and Minnow Films project is described as a thrilling road movie full of heart, wit and wonder. More from The Hollywood Reporter The story follows a broken family forced to come together when 16-year-old Finn (Davis) and his livewire younger brother Charlie run away from trouble at home in England to reach their estranged grandfather (Nighy) on Irelands stunning and wild West coast, according to a plot description. Matthews is set to direct from a script by Malcolm Campbell (What Richard Did, Herself, Ackley Bridge), based on the novel Charlie and Me by Mark Lowery. Former head of BBC Film David Thompson (Billy Elliot, Notes on a Scandal, Woman in Gold, Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom) is producing with Alex Gordon and Keren Misgav Ristvedt for Origin Pictures (Hope Gap, Sense of an Ending, A Brilliant Young Mind), Martina Niland (Once, Sing Street) from Dublin-based Port Pictures, and Minnow. The project is being prepped to shoot in Kerry, Ireland, later in 2024. Louise Kiely (Banshees of Inisherin, Normal People, The Green Knight) functions as casting director. The script takes us on an emotional, often hilariously funny, yet deeply moving journey through some of the most beautiful parts of the U.K. and Ireland, said Tassilo Hallbauer, head of sales and acquisitions at Beta Cinema. In Jojo Rabbit, Roman Griffin Davis demonstrated his brilliant talent for portraying deep character roles with a unique sense of humor. With Bill Nighys involvement, following his pivotal, Oscar-nominated performance in Living, Origin Pictures are assembling a dream cast; 500 Miles offers top-tier escapism and will resonate with international audiences of all ages. Added Thompson: We are delighted to be launching this wonderful project with such a brilliant cast and director. 500 Miles is both hilarious and heart-wrenching and ultimately rather life-affirming. It has such an original take on the world and will be a truly unforgettable film. Roman Griffin Davis and Taika Waititi in JoJo Rabbit. Best of The Hollywood Reporter Meredith Marks attending Andy's Legends Ball Red Carpet at BravoCon held at Manhattan Center on October 14, 2022 in New York City, NY Steven Bergman/AFF-USA.COM. 14 Oct 2022 Pictured: Brandi Glanville. Photo credit: Steven Bergman/AFF-USA.COM / MEGA TheMegaAgency.com +1 888 505 6342 (Mega Agency TagID: MEGA908027_096.jpg) [Photo via Mega Agency] Brandi Glanville is claiming that the sexual assault claims from Caroline Manzo have really messed her up mentally and financially. As The Blast has previously reported, 62-year-old Caroline Manzo accused Brandi Glanville of harassing her during the filming of The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip while in Morocco. According to the suit, Glanville made unwanted advances towards Manzo, and kissed her without her consent while on set. She also claims that the production network encouraged the sexually offensive and harassing content. As Glanville navigates through these recent accusations, she said that turning to OnlyFans has helped her work through it, mentally and financially. Brandi Glanville Opens Up Abot Mental Health Following Claims MEGA I joined OnlyFans cause I didnt have income from the whole six months, and it saved my life, she said on a recent episode of her 'Brandi Glanville Unfiltered' podcast. I thought I was, like, being desperate, she continued, acknowledging that the platform is known for its nude content and can be looked at as derogatory towards women, and then when I got on it, I was like, Im really feeling my sexual being at 51.' Caroline Manzo filed a lawsuit against Glanville last month, which claimed: Glanville "mounted Manzo on the couch holding Manzo down with her body, forcibly squeezed Manzos cheeks together and thrust her tongue in Manzos mouth, while humping her. Glanville, who has repeatedly denied the allegations, said the entire situation has taken a toll on her mentally, physically and financially. "It gives me so much anxiety and I think thats why I've had the flare ups this past week," she told her cohost James Maas and guest Vicki Gunvalson. "Im all clenched up. Im a mess. My health is really f----ed." She claims she was treated for stress-induced angioedema -- a condition that causes swelling under the skin -- after Manzo's allegations. Brandi Glanville Denies Accusations Made By Caroline Manzo MEGA Brandi Glanville has continuously denied the accusations, with her rep releasing a statement shortly after the news broke, claiming that she had to wake up to yet another lawsuit that includes defamatory, false accusations about her. The rep also claimed that while filming, Brandi followed what the producers asked of her, and there was no sexual assault. She is innocent of these absurd accusations that have weighed on her mental and physical health for far too long without a word of support from Peacock, Shed, or Bravo. Glanvilles rep concluded with, This painful storytelling seems endless and needs to stop. She is looking to move on and upward and get her life back. MEGA It is important to note that Manzo isnt directly going after Glanville, and instead, she is suing Bravo, Peacock, and other production and showrunners for allegedly encouraging the sexually offensive and harassing content. The Real Housewives of New Jersey alum is suing for negligence, sexual harassment, sex/gender discrimination, sexual battery, and other causes of action that she says violate state laws in California and New York, per the docs. Bravo and Peacock have yet to comment on the lawsuit. Like many bored, housebound folks, Alex Pena turned to baking during the pandemic. "Baking puts people in a comfort zone," he said, finding it peaceful and even therapeutic. "Part of it is focus while creating, but then the outcome or result is the ultimate incentive. During COVID, people needed that release, and baking cultivated a natural therapy." The California native sunk his hands into perfecting recipes for Pan Dulce, the Mexican bread of his childhood. Unlike most of those bored home cooks, though, Pena is a master baker, a trained culinary chef, and a professional bread scientist. He spent those tense, pandemic days seeking solace in kneading bread dough and converting industrial-sized recipes into smaller batches. Now, Space Coast bakers can benefit from those experiments. The self-proclaimed bread nerd will at the Florida Academy of Baking in Satellite Beach later this month to teach four bread master classes. The six-hour classes will be Feb. 22-25. Alex Pena, a California master baker, bread scientist and self-proclaimed bread nerd, will teach four master classes in late February at the Florida Academy of Baking in Satellite Beach. How Alex Pena got his start "I've been in the baking industry most of my life," Pena said. His father started out as a musician, playing harp and guitar to share his Mexican culture. "Then he bought a bakery, and I worked with him in the kitchen," Pena said. Pena learned from artisan bakers in his family's La Morenita bakery in Cypress Park. Those bakers didn't know the science or the names for their techniques, but they could tell when dough was ready by the sound it made hitting the sides of the mixing bowl. As a young man, Pena joined the the Marine Corps, then attended Le Courdon Bleu School of Culinary Arts in Pasadena, where he learned formal French techniques. Pena went on to manage a bakery in Pasadena and work as a catering chef before moving into the ingredients side of the industrial bakery business. More food news: What's on the menu at this new Grant-Valkaria restaurant? You'll have to visit to find out More food news: Cuban restaurant a welcome addition to downtown Melbourne | Restaurant Review He spent time working in research and development for BakeMark, an international company that specializes in mixes, fillings and frostings for commercial bakeries. For the past 10 years, he has worked as director of product development and technical services at Bellarise, a global supplier of yeast for commercial and industrial bakeries. As a bread scientist, Pena knows how baking ingredients work, when to use yeast vs. baking powder, oil vs. butter. He knows how the temperature of the flour, the humidity in the air and the altitude will impact the finished product. But the pandemic brought him back to his roots. While confined to his home kitchen, he began converting those industrial recipes into proportions more appropriate for home cooks. "I couldn't keep my hands out of the dough," he said. "I'd never baked at home before 2020." Pena streamed his experiments online and developed a following. In January 2023, he decided to open Evolution Baking, a cooking school he conducts from his home. He still has his industrial day job, but teaching home cooks and owners of independent bakeries has become a passion project for him. He is writing a Mexican artisan bread cookbook, and continues to offer online classes. So how did he end up at Florida Academy of Baking? Conchas is one of the Mexican sweet breads master baker Alex Pena will teach during the Bizcocho class on Feb. 22 at Florida Academy of Baking in Satellite Beach. Cecilia Hambrick-Mariaca, one of the Florida Academy of Baking instructors, met Pena while taking his online classes. She planned a trip to California for an in-person class, but the trip fell through. "I said, 'Why don't we get him to come here?'" said Angela McEllin, who owns the academy with her husband, Rory. "So, we reached out, and he said yes." The academy has several bread and pastry classes, but none of the instructors are familiar with the Mexican and Central America breads that are Pena's specialty. "We've had a number of inquiries from individuals that own or are looking to start their own bakeries all over Florida, and several from Southern Florida, where there is a large Latin community," McEllin said. "We hoped by offering these classes here, they will get the knowledge without having to travel to California themselves." The classes are all day, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., and include lunch. "Even thought they are aimed at professionals, Alex has made them accessible to anyone interested in learning to bake bread," she said. The classes also are open to "dynamic duos," Florida Academy of Baking's term for two people who share a work station, the cost of the class and the resulting baked goods. Pena said he's grown to love teaching. Some of his students are professional bakers; others are beginners. Regardless of where they start, they all learn something. "At the end, when they're looking at the bread," he said, "that's exciting." Bread Master Classes with Alex Pena When: Feb. 22-25 Where: Florida Academy of Baking, 1370 State Road A1A, Satellite Beach Cost: $349, which can be split by two baking partners. Enter the code "masterclass" for a 25% discount. Info: fabbaker.com Classes: Bizcocho, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Feb. 22. A direct descendent of French Brioche, recipes for this yeast-raised dough have been enhanced with coarse ground cinnamon and vanilla extract. The class will teach how to use the base dough for five types of sweet bread. Pan Fino, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Feb. 23. The specialty sweet bread is taken a step further by adding the combination of different leavening systems and a higher level of shortening to create a rich, cinnamon cookie-like bread. Pan de Muerto, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Feb. 24. This fragrant sweet bread has deep roots in ancient Aztec rituals and Spanish symbolism. It is the centerpiece on many altars during the Day of the Dead, El Di'a de los Muertos. Rosca de Reyes, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Feb. 25. Students will learn to make "king's crown," a Mexican version of the king cake, including mastering the decorating process of sugar paste and candied fruits that symbolize jewels. Suzy Fleming Leonard is a features journalist with more than three decades of experience. Reach her at sleonard@floridatoday.com. Find her on Facebook: @SuzyFlemingLeonard or on Instagram: @SuzyLeonard. This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Master baker Alex Pena to teach bread making classes in Satellite Beach Quantavious Eason, 11, was arrested in August 2023 and sentenced to three months probation in December Courtesy Carlos Moore Carlos Moore, Quantavious Eason and LaTonya Eason The case against the Mississippi child who was arrested in August for public urination has been dismissed, according to a release issued Monday by the boy's familys attorney, Carlos Moore. Quantavious Eason, now 11, was arrested for urinating in a Senatobia courthouse parking lot in August 2023. In a December hearing, the child was sentenced to probation and ordered to write a book report on the late Kobe Bryant. Judge Rusty Harlow ruled that Eason is not a child in need of supervision, effectively dismissing the Tate County Youth Court petition against him, shared Moore. Representatives for Moores office and Senatobia Mayor Greg Graves' office did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for more information on Thursday. Related: A 10-Year-Old Mississippi Boy Was Arrested for Urinating in Public. His Lawyer Says Race Played a Role WREG News Channel 3/Youtube Quantavious Eason Quantavious was 10 years old when he publicly urinated next to a car while waiting for his mother LaTonya Eason, who at the time was in a courthouse that had a sign indicating there were no public restrooms. After being spotted by an officer, the 3rd-grade student was disciplined by his mother, CNN reported. But four other officers then appeared at the scene, arrested Quantavious and took him to the police station in a police car. Moore has since argued that race played a part into Quantavious' arrest. He did what any reasonable person would do: he urinated next to the car behind the door not exposing himself to anyone, Moore said, according to NBC. He would not have been arrested, prosecuted or sentenced if he was any other color, race, besides Black. LaTonya agreed that her son has been treated unfairly, though said she was unsure if race was a factor. My son is going through enough getting arrested," she told the press. "Then for him [to have] to see a probation officer and then write an essay, I dont think its right or its fair." Quantavious Eason on August 10, 2023. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Meanwhile, the officer involved in the incident was terminated about 10 days after Quantavious' arrest. The officers decisions violated our written policy and went against our prior training on how to deal with these situations, the Chief of the Senatobia Police Department said in a statement at the time. As a result of this investigation, one of the officers involved is no longer employed, and the others will be disciplined. We will also have mandatory Juvenile training department-wide, just as we do every year. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. More from Spin: We were a bar band, says The Dead Souths Nate Hilts. That was over 10 years ago. Since then, The Dead South have grown organically, first across their native Canada, then across Europe where theyve toured numerous times. Hilts says The Dead South holds, A Western mystique for Europeans. Were like a spectacle, he continues. We were playing in bars and cafes and the tiniest venues. People could get that close exposure. They could get personal with it. That kept growing word of mouth. The Dead South dress up in variations of period costume with black trousers, suspenders, crisp white shirts, some kind of flourish-y neck accessory and perhaps a hat. Once outfitted in what could be referred to as Amish chic, they go down to their local watering hole to play some jams to an enthusiastic and similarly attired audience. They still look the cosplay bar-band part, but the acoustic string-based four-piece from Regina, Saskatchewanone of the square provinces north of the borderhas come a long way from the honky tonk. Their sound is identified by mandolin which both Hilts and guitarist/vocalist Scott Pringle play, and banjo, which is handled by Colton Crawford. To round out the string instruments, Danny Kenyon, who also sings, has his fingers on cello and bass. Their musical style is a long thread of hyphenated genres: alternative-folk-bluegrass-punk rock. When I suggest that theyre actually Canadiana, Hilts sniggers in approval. Over the last dozen or so years, The Dead South have released three studio albums, a live album and three EPs. They have earned three Juno Awards, one for Breakthrough Group of the Year and two for Traditional Roots Album of Year for 2016s Illusion & Doubt and 2019s Sugar & Joy. The latter was produced by Grammy winner Jimmy Nutt at his Nutthouse Recording Studio in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. For its fourth album, Chains & Stakes, the group enlisted Nutt once again, this time taking him to Mexico City where they recorded the album in 12 days at Panoram Studios. The album is preceded by the singles Tiny Wooden Box and A Little Devil. These give an indication of where The Dead South is headed, which is even loftier heights. They are making their debut at the Grand Ole Opry on Feb. 10, the day after Chains & Stakes release. The Dead South are regulars in Nashville, including at the citys famed Ryman Auditorium, to which they will return for two nights this summer during their extensive world tour which kicks off two days after their Grand Ole Opry appearance. Hilts seems unphased by it all as he leans back in his seat, enjoying the calm before the storm of the albums release, hitting the road for the next few months, performing and talking about Chains & Stakes, beginning with SPIN. SPIN: Why did you decide to record in Mexico City? NATE HILTS: It was just something different. Besides our first EP and our first album, we havent done any albums at the same place. Its fun. We went down for a demo session and checked out the studio with Jimmy Nutt. When we came back, he brought Cody [Simmons] who engineered the last album and they set up the whole room so it could sound the way they wanted. The studio is called Panoram Studios and its in Condesa, which is a really nice area. Did the environment have an impact on the music? Everything was so chill over there. I found Condesa to be quite chill. Our Airbnb there was a 20-minute walk to the studio. Take your time getting there in the morning. Stop for a coffee and a nice pastry. Walk in traffic, see it all, then you get in there and its this nice spot. You almost forget youre in Mexico City. Go outside with your shirt off, just chill in the sun and go back in. The vibe was definitely super chill the whole time. When we had to go to other places to shoot some video, that was quite chaotic. A few songs were written over COVID. And some bits and pieces we came up with over COVID. Some were written when we were doing that demo week. And then some were written in between coming into the recording. It was during downtime mostly. Did you have conversations with Jimmy Nutt about where you wanted to go with the new album? Jimmy asks, What sound of album do you like and where do you want this to sit in that aspect? We kept going through different scenarios, like, We really like this System of a Down album, but we dont really want to sound like System of a Down. We want to show some influence. We had to come to a happy medium with every song and told Jimmy what we thought it should sound like. He either agreed fully or said, I think it actually needs a little of this, and we would adjust as we went every time. He played with a lot of different plates and sounds to get a different feel for the song. It was a lot of conversations like that, but no defined plan. The beautiful part about working with Jimmy is we co-produce. We present him with what we have, or what one person has, and he listens while everyone else jams and you explain the structure to the other guys and they start to write parts. When hes listening, he either loves what youre doing, or he will suggest trying out something new. Of course, we want to try that out as well, just to see what thats like. We do a give or take on which feels better, and then we do a feeling decision on those things. Our relationship with Jimmy, the cohesive work we do together is just so smooth. Its going to be hard if we ever decide not to work with Jimmy or hes busy when were trying to do our next album. Any ideas we have, he can work it out in his head and explain that to Cody, and theyll just make it happen in front of you. Thats how were able to get out in 12 days because of how we can communicate and understand each other and formulate things so fast. Its really nice. (Credit: Morgan Coates) Were there songs that changed dramatically from inception to when you put them down in the studio? Danny [Kenyon] wrote the song Yours to Keep. He wanted that song to get bigger and we did the reverse. We kept it as bare bones and raw as possible because the feel of it hit way harder when it was simple and to the point. You get more emotion out of it. Some of the other songs they came together with added instrumentation. I would come up with a song with acoustic and my voice. The way the guys can tell stories with their instruments, it always adds so much more to a song. Were coming up with different timing for a good feel at the right moment. The hardest one for all of us was Completely, Sweetly. Colton wrote that song on the banjo and he was in a metal phase when he was doing it. He loves playing metal on the banjo. He wrote the guitar part, the banjo part and the bass part. We had to learn to play to that style, which wasnt too bad. But then trying to sing to what he wrote, because Im used to singing to what I write, or at least its closer to what Im normally doing, that one was probably changed the most. Songwriting can be so hard. Even if you got your word, where do you add your inflections to make the word hit harder, give it more meaning, or flow better? Do all of you write lyrics? Or is that mainly you? If Colton is writing a song on the banjo, hes really good at coming up with structure, but Ill take the lyrics because Im going to sing those ones, for the most part. Danny writes his own lyrics. Hes written Yours to Keep and In Hell Ill Be Good Company. Scotty writes lyrics and I think Ive only sung one of Scottys songs, which is The Dead South. Normally when the guys write the lyrics, they sing their own songs. Writing songs is different all the time for me. I was kind of hoping I would eventually come up with a method that is solid and works. But sometimes Ill be humming in my head, and I like the melody and words will start to formulate and Ill pick up a guitar and try and figure out what to do with that. Or Ill be messing around on the guitar and find a nice chord progression that I like and try to do the melody over that, and words will start to build and this whole story will come out of that. Thats probably the most formative one that I use is the guitar first, come up with a nice chord progression and then build off that. I experience stories off of sounds. I hear sounds and I want to start telling a story to the sound. To see our running list of the top 100 greatest rock stars of all time, click here. Gypsy Rose Blanchard was released last year in December after being imprisoned for eight years. Previously, the court incarcerated her and her then-boyfriend, Nicholas Godejohn, for the murder of Dee Dee Blanchard. However, unlike Gypsy, Nicholas will spend the rest of his life in jail without the possibility of parole. As per People Magazine, Gypsy was born on July 27, 1991, to Clauddine Dee Dee Blanchard and Rod Blanchard. Following Gypsys birth, her parents split. A few years later, Rod married Kristy Blanchard and had two childrenMia and Dylan. Thus, this means Rods children with Kristy are Gypsys half-siblings. Even though there is a ten-year age difference between Gypsy and Mia, the two share a close bond. Moreover, they had a sweet reunion after Gypsy was released from prison. Mia even appeared in the new Lifetime documentary titled The Prison Confessions of Gypsy Rose Blanchard and stated that her sisters sentence was too long. She said, I always thought that 10 years was too long. She deserved to be in jail but she also deserved to get help. I feel sorry Gypsy didnt get the life that I got to live. Why was Mia Blanchard skeptical of Gypsys marriage to Ryan Anderson? Gypsy is married to a Louisiana-based teacher named Ryan Anderson. Interestingly, Mia wasnt too sure about the couple at the start. Expressing her concern, she stated, She [Gypsy] dont know what its like to live in the real world yet. She doesnt know what its like to live with a man and Im just worried itll end in divorce. I dont want to make her feel like I dont support her or that shes still being controlled, but I never met him. She further said, Youre going to worry about if this person has the right intentions if they can really give her what she needs. Even after Mia met Gypsys now-husband, she remained skeptical about her sisters marriage. In the documentary, Mia said, Im not going to keep from doing anything, I want her to live. But she has a whole life to experience, a whole life to live. According to People Magazine, Mia Blanchard was born on June 26, 2001. She graduated from high school in 2019 and went on to study nursing at the University of Louisiana. The post Does Gypsy Rose Blanchard Have Siblings? appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More. PEOPLE has a sneak peek at the actor's upcoming appearance on 'The Tamron Hall Show' Dylan Sprouse is sharing new details about his romantic proposal to Barbara Palvin, and how it involved a hike in a dress shirt and a curious sea otter. The supermodel, 30, and Suite Life of Zack and Cody alum, 31, tied the knot in Hungary in July 2023, with the ceremony taking place in a church outside of Budapest. In an exclusive clip from the Monday, Feb. 12 episode of the Tamron Hall Show shared with PEOPLE, Sprouse shares that he and his now-wife both love sea otters, and reveals how he managed to include one of the animals in his 2022 proposal. ABC/Jeff Neira Dylan Sprouse, Tamron Hall "Big Sur is an immensely beautiful place ... and I knew I wanted to do it there," Sprouse tells Hall in the clip above. One of the bluffs in Big Sur, he added, is known to be "one of the most populated sea otter zones in California." "So, I was like, 'Okay, we're gonna get down on the knee there's gonna be tons of sea otters all around ... and as soon as we were walking in to the wildlife park, one of the rangers came up and said, 'Hey, just to let you guys know, we haven't seen sea otters here in months,' " he continued. ABC/Jeff Neira Dylan Sprouse, Tamron Hall Still, Sprouse forged ahead. "I was like, all right, we're here anyway, and I'm already in a button-down on a hike.' " Following a two-mile hike in the aforementioned button-down, Sprouse said he "got down on one knee over a beautiful vista, did the thing, she said yes, thankfully, and then immediately afterwards, we see a little head bob out of the water." The sea otter, he added, made it just in time. "And he rolls on his back, and he looks up at us," Sprouse continued. ABC/Jeff Neira Dylan Sprouse, Tamron Hall "The sea otter was there to anoint the moment," Hall said. "He was, it was fated because he came up as soon as she said yes," Sprouse said, adding that it was the first sighting of one of the animals in the area "in months." Related: Dylan Sprouse and Barbara Palvin's Relationship Timeline Dylan Sprouse Instagram Dylan Sprouse, Barbara Palvin The pair had their first date in 2018 and got engaged in September 2022, waiting nearly a year to share the big news. The couple confirmed the news in a V Magazine interview conducted by Sprouse's twin Cole. "We didn't necessarily feel the need to be fully transparent with the public about that aspect of our engagement," Sprouse explained to the publication. "What we wanted to do with Stephen [Gan] and the V team is make something that was kind of tongue-in-cheek about the nature of private versus public. We're playing with the idea of perception." Palvin said that the couple wanted "to do it on our time," but acknowledged a leak of the engagement made that difficult. "When some people leaked the information that we got engaged, our PR team was like, 'Hey, so you guys should do maybe a post about it or talk to this magazine or talk to that magazine,'" she recalled. "That really annoyed me because I knew we were building this story up. So, Im very happy that we ended up doing it our way." For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Germanys UFA Group has brought in a senior Netflix exec, as part of a management re-org. Natalie Clausen has been named COO of the Fremantle-owned German production giant, and will join its management board on February 19. More from Deadline She was most recently Senior Production Manager for German-speaking countries, working on productions such as The Empress, Kleo and Liebskind. Prior to Netflix, she worked on big-ticket German shows such as Babylon Berlin and UFA shows Charite and Deutschland 89. Shell report to UFA CEO Sascha Schwingel, who took on his role in September. Schwingel replaced Nico Hofmann, who had been with the Generation War maker for more than 25 years. Clearly, the restructuring didnt end there, and the addition of Clausen will provide valuable input to create even more space for creativity in a flexible, lean organization and with the clever use of technology, according to Schwingel. Further changes will see Joachim Kosack stepping down from the management board to concentrate on leading UFA Serial Drama along side Markus Brunnemann. I would like to expressly thank Joachim for his many years of successful work in the UFA management and am pleased that he is now concentrating his extensive expertise on UFA Serial Drama, said Schwingel. This puts us in an excellent position for the further development of our important long-running daily series. Over at UFA Documentary, the maker of All or Nothing: Die Nationalmannschaft in Katar, Gwendolin Szyszkowitz-Schwingel is exiting her Managing Director role at the end of the month. Marc Lepetit will lead the division on his own in future. Szyszkowitz-Schwingels exit has been made in the interests of the company and by mutual agreement, according to UFA. I would also like to thank Gwendolin for setting up the UFA Documentary and realizing excellent productions such as Mythos Jungfernhautchen and Young, Wild and Limitless. I wish her all the best for her professional future. Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The Winston-Salem chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy has revived a lawsuit objecting to the removal of the Confederate statue here in 2019. Although the N.C. Supreme Court ruled in December 2022 that the UDC could not go forward with the suit it had filed over the citys efforts to remove the statue, the states highest court also left the door open for the suit to be refiled. The most recent filing by Confederate statue supporters is an amended complaint filed Dec. 1, 2023, by James B. Gordon Chapter No. 211 of the UDC, with defendants Winston-Salem, Forsyth County and Winston Courthouse LLC, the private owner of the former courthouse where the statue once stood. The statue itself remains in storage following its dismantling on March 11, 2019, after the city declared that its presence at the familiar downtown corner was a public safety hazard. And that came during a time when protesters in many cities in North Carolina and elsewhere in the South were demanding the removal of Confederate statues and other memorials as inappropriate to modern sensibilities. In some cities, protesters tore down statues. The new amended complaint was filed following extensive legal wrangling between lawyers for the UDC and the city and county during much of 2023, over the UDCs effort to revive its lawsuit following the 2022 N.C. Supreme Court decision. Forsyth Superior Court Judge Eric Morgan issued the order on Nov. 21, 2023, that gave the green light to the UDCs latest court action. Like the original suit filed by the UDC in 2019, the amended lawsuit filed by the local UDC chapter asks the court to make a ruling on the ownership of the statue: To say what the various parties to the lawsuit have in the way of rights, duties, privileges, obligations, liabilities (and) immunities in regard to the statue. The ownership question became one of the knotty points of contention in the original suit, since that question turned out to have an impact on the course of the suit. Beyond that, the new lawsuit asks the court to rule on whether the city validly declared the statue a public nuisance, and whether a state law that forbids the removal of monuments on public property has any effect on the case. Similarly, the UDC is asking the court to determine whether historic property designations impact the statues removal. The UDC says the city violated its rights and exceeded its own authority in forcing the removal of the statue. The city filed its response to the amended lawsuit on Feb. 1. The city in that response denied the allegations made by the UDC and asks the court to dismiss the suit with prejudice. Thats a legal term for a type of court ruling that would prevent any future revivals of the lawsuit. In the UDCs 2019 lawsuit, the local court and the state court of appeals dismissed the lawsuit with prejudice, which prevented the UDC from continuing its legal action on the statue. The state supreme court, however, ordered the local court to dismiss the UDC suit without prejudice, giving the UDC a path to its current legal action. The UDC raised $3,000 to erect the statue, which was dedicated in 1905. Relying on past statements of ownership from the UDC, when the city decided the statue had to go late 2018, it sent the group a letter giving it until the end of January, 2019, to remove the statue. But when the UDC filed suit that January, it claimed the county owned the statue because the statue had been excluded from the countys 2014 sale of the old courthouse property to Winston Courthouse LLC. On top of that, the UDC argued that the statue, being owned by the county, could not be moved because of a public monuments law forbidding the removal of monuments from public property. City and county attorneys pointed out that the exclusion of the statue from the sale had not excluded the ground on which the statue stood, and that it was therefore not on public property. As well, Winston Courthouse backed the citys effort to have the statue removed. The city and county argued too that the UDC lacked standing the ability to contest the case in court because the group, claiming no ownership of the statue, had no true interest in the case to defend. In its new filing, the UDC chapter argues that it has standing to sue because of its membership connections with Civil war veterans through their descendants, and that the members take part in various charitable and memorial efforts, including the donation of the statue. Jesse Watters bungled Governor Kristi Noems home state, just after slamming Joe Biden for his mental acuity amid Thursdays DOJ report release. Special Counsel Robert Hur issued a report on his investigation into President Bidens classified material retention on Thursday, in which he cast doubt on Bidens cognitive ability. The report concluded that Biden should not be criminally charged on this matter because he has a poor memory. Hur also pointed out that Biden couldnt remember when he served as Vice President or when his son passed away. Hur said that Biden could be perceived by a jury as a sympathetic figure. After the report was released, Biden held a press conference at the White House, during which he confused Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi for the president of Mexico. Fox News Jesse Watters slammed Bidens gaffes saying he was too emotional. The immediately, Watters made a gaffe of his own, introducing the South Dakota Governor as South Carolina governor Kristi Noem. Noem did not correct Watters mistake. LOL: just seconds after attacking Biden for his age, Fox News host Jesse Watters called Kristi Noem the governor of South Carolina, not South Dakota. Everyone! Jesse Watters has dementia!!! Am I doing this right, Republicans? Isnt this what you do? pic.twitter.com/GRc122RqTQ Harry Sisson (@harryjsisson) February 9, 2024 And were gonna turn around some of the soundbites from that insane press conference we just witnessed where the president almost looked like he was going to jump across and hit somebody for asking him a question, Watters continued. I think he is reserving a little something special for the Special Counsel Robert Hur who just said to the American people that the president has issues mentally, uh, hazy memory, and diminished faculties, the Fox News anchor added. The post Jesse Watters Has On-Air Gaffe While Slamming Bidens Cognitive Ability | Video appeared first on TheWrap. Barely two months since former Marvel star Jonathan Majors was found guilty of reckless assault and harassment of his ex-partner, Grace Jabbari, two of his ex-girlfriends have come forward, citing physical and emotional abuse during their relationships with the actor. An NYT report on the latest allegations leveled against the actor also made reference to his behavior on the set of "Lovecraft Country," where he was allegedly "testy" with women specifically. Jonathan Majors Accused Of Abuse By Two Ex-Girlfriend MEGA Fresh allegations of abuse have emerged against actor Jonathan Majors, as detailed in a recent report by The New York Times. The article, published Thursday, features accounts from two women, Emma Duncan and Maura Hooper, who claim to have dated Majors. Duncan alleged instances of physical and emotional abuse, while Hooper claimed emotional abuse during their relationship. Describing her relationship with the Marvel supervillain, Duncan portrayed him as controlling and threatening, leading to isolation from friends and career aspirations. She said, "You lose your sense of worth. She added: "At first you feel, 'Oh, I'm being loved, and then you feel, 'I'm being erased.'" In response to the allegations, Majors' lawyer, Priya Chaudhry, admitted in a response to People magazine that the former Marvel actor had "toxic" relationships with the women and "did say hurtful things." However, the attorney denied several claims of physical abuse, stating: "These relationships were between young drama students, and all began with mutual intensity," with Hooper dating Majors from 2013 to 2015 and Duncan from 2015 to 2019. Jonathan Majors Attorney Says The Actor Is 'Choosing To Focus On Himself' MEGA Along with the fresh allegations came details surrounding Majors' past relationships with the two ex-girlfriends. One incident allegedly involved Hooper becoming pregnant during their relationship, with Majors dropping her off at an abortion clinic but failing to escort her home afterward. Responding to the allegation, Chaudhry stated: "Mr. Majors and Ms. Hooper mutually agreed that they should end the pregnancy." "That deeply sad event is still a painful memory for Mr. Majors," she added. Additionally, during the "Creed III" actor's relationship with Duncan, which began at Yale School of Drama in 2015, he allegedly made frequent violent threats. Duncan claimed he threw her across a room once, though Chaudhry denied this, admitting only to "serious arguments." Despite the allegations, Chaudhry emphasized that Majors "is choosing to take responsibility for his own part focusing on himself, and addressing his lifelong depression." 'Lovecraft Country' Crew Describes Jonathan Majors As 'A Buddy To Male' And 'Testy' With Women MEGA The New York Times article also referenced interviews with collaborators of Majors from his HBO series "Lovecraft Country." While the Emmy award winner was described as "a buddy to male technicians and craftspeople," he was reportedly "testy and prone to [an] argument" with the women on set who cautioned each other to be wary around him. Allegations include instances where Majors intimidated female crew members. Despite HBO advising the actor to apologize at the time, Majors' lawyer claimed he had "never been told that anyone objected to his behavior." According to his lawyer, Chaudhry, "Mr. Majors is a method actor, well-respected for his ability to immerse himself in character. Countless female producers, co-stars, and members on set can attest to his professionalism." The Actor Faces Up To A Year In Jail In Domestic Violence Trial Scheduled For April 8 MEGA The new allegations follow Majors' conviction in December for misdemeanor assault in the third degree and harassment charges in the second degree in a domestic violence case involving former girlfriend Grace Jabbari. The alleged domestic violence occurred on March 25, 2023, and during the trials, Jabbari testified that Majors injured her during a dispute over a text message she saw on his phone suggesting infidelity. This resulted in a physical altercation when she grabbed the phone from him. During the altercation, she claimed that Majors forcibly removed her finger from the phone, struck her head while attempting to retrieve it, and subsequently tossed her back into the car. Despite pleading not guilty, the "Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania" star faces the possibility of up to a year in jail, with his sentencing hearing now scheduled for April 8 after his defense team filed a motion to set aside the verdict. In the meantime, prosecutors have until March next month to respond to the motion. Mardi Gras, arriving Tuesday, Feb. 13 this year, is the mother of all celebrations. What you might not know is that it has brothers, cousins, nieces and nephews. Junkanoo in the Bahamas. La Diablada in Bolivia. Fastelavn in Denmark and Norway. Apokries in Greece. Shrovetide in Russia. And in many places, including Trinidad, Rio de Janeiro, and sometimes in New Orleans itself, it is known by the all-encompassing name "Carnival." "The Christian calendar always had carnival," said Carl Mack, founder of the Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture in New Orleans. In fact, the northeast U.S., where we live, is one of the few places in the world that doesn't have a carnival tradition though with the popularity of New Orleans food and music, many restaurants and clubs in our area do have their own Mardi Gras events this time of year. A crowd lining the beach grabs for beads thrown from a parade float during the Barefoot Mardi Gras Parade on North Padre Island, Feb. 18, 2023, in Corpus Christi, Texas. They'll serve King Cakes, stage costume contests, crown a king and queen of carnival, host zydeco bands that throw out beads to the raucous crowds. But it's Catholic countries and majority-Catholic regions like Louisiana where the carnival tradition is strongest. In New Orleans, it's a whole season, that lasts from Epiphany Jan. 6 to Fat Tuesday, the day before Lent. "It's a huge celebration," Mack said. "For weeks, there are things to do every day." "Carnival" means "farewell to meat." And in the beginning, that's literally what it was a blowout feast, in which all the stores of meat would be eaten in advance of Lent, rather than being left to spoil during the month of abstinence. "Fat Tuesday" Mardi Gras was the last and lustiest day of excess before Ash Wednesday, when it's time to pay the piper. The giant train float Smokey Mary chugs down Napoleon Avenue as the 1,400 men and women of the Krewe of Orpheus present a 38-float Mardi Gras parade entitled "The Orpheus Imaginarium" on the Uptown parade route in New Orleans on Monday, March 4, 2019. (Michael DeMocker/The Times-Picayune via AP) "They drank the wine and ate the meats and slaughtered the fatted calf," he said. "After that, they woke up with a hangover and rubbed some ashes on their face and said they were going to abstain from meat during the spring." But carnival also has its roots in pagan tradition. Specifically the Roman saturnalia the time of topsy-turveydom. Masters and servants exchanged places. The sacred was mocked. Forbidden things were permitted. And all in perfect freedom, because everyone wore masks so no one knew who was who. "The nobility wanted to sneak around and have fun like the peasants," Mack said. "Carnival is basically society upside-down. You have the nobility running around like a bunch of fools, and the fools running around like a bunch of nobility." Those are the things that most carnivals have in common. But the specifics vary from country to country, culture to culture. For example... New Orleans Mardi Gras is the most famous of carnivals, if not the biggest. "80 percent of the population of New Orleans belongs to some kind of [Mardi Gras] club," he said. Other parts of Louisiana celebrate Mardi Gras, as do other states Mobile Alabama's is said to have preceded New Orleans but it's The Big Easy that has the iconic features, the balls and the beads and the Mardi Gras Indians and the "krewes" (clubs). Especially, it has the parades. The first was in 1857. Comedian and actor Adam Devine reigns as Bacchus LIV as the Krewe of Bacchus rolls on the Uptown route on Sunday, Feb. 19, 2023, in New Orleans. (Brett Duke/The Times-Picayune/The New Orleans Advocate via AP) ORG XMIT: LAORS702 "Floats are a big part of it here," he said. "There are a lot of people whose biggest thrill is riding on the floats and throwing beads." Another unique characteristic of the New Orleans carnival is the music. It's a music city the birthplace of jazz, the cradle rock-and-roll. The sounds of Mardi Gras, from "When the Saints Go Marching In" to Professor Longhair's "Go to the Mardi Gras" and The Meters' "Mardi Gras Mambo," and the wild handkerchief-waving, umbrella-twirling "second line" dancing that goes with them, are key ingredients. "We have a lot of carnival music," Mack said. "You could listen for hours and never repeat." Rio de Janeiro When you think of Rio, you think of samba. And when you think of samba, you think of samba "schools" those drumming, marching battalions with their distinctive tri-tone whistles and cuicas (a drum with a stick inside, rubbed back and forth) that are a distinctive feature of the Rio "Carnaval." It's world's biggest such event some 2 million people a day in the streets and one of the best known. Not least because the popular 1959 film "Black Orpheus," with its iconic title tune, put it on everyone's radar. A member of the Beija Flor samba school performs during the second night of Rio's Carnival parade at the Sambadrome Marques de Sapucai in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on Feb. 21, 2023. - The world's biggest carnival hit peak party level as Rio's top samba schools on February 19 opened their annual parade competition in the giant avenue-turned-stadium known as the "Sambadrome." Carnaval was brought to Brazil by the Portuguese colonizers in 1723. As with New Orleans Mardi Gras, it began as a fairly decorous celebration by the upper classes. It became something much more lively more raucous, more fun, more musically distinctive when The People got involved. Their flamboyant feathers, elaborate makeup and catchy rhythms have made Rio's carnival a magnet for tourists. "You had this European holiday being celebrated, but what was the indigenous population and the African population going to do at this time?" Mack said. "So they developed their own way of celebrating, and used their own music." Trinidad On Trinidad, the U.S. Navy had a base. And that base went through a lot of 55-gallon steel oil drums. It was a certainEllie Mannette, in the 1930s, who was said to have taken one of these discarded oil barrels and fashioned the first modern steel drum. By the 1950s and '60s, steel pan orchestras of 100 or more were competing for first first prize at the annual carnival parades. As samba is to Rio's carnaval, and jazz and funk is to the New Orleans Mardi Gras, so steel band music is the heart and soul of Trinidad's celebration. Colorful costumes, giant puppets, stilt walkers are also part of the fun. But it's the music that propels it all. Back in the day, steel bands were named after the American war movies that were then the rage in Trinidad The Invaders, The Renegades, Casablanca, Crossfire. And they had war-like tendencies to match. Rivals clashed. Recalled one veteran: "The first sign there was gonna be trouble was when the music stopped." Venice Mardi Gras may be the most famous of these events. But the Venice carnival, first celebrated in 1162, is the most iconic. Feb. 20, 2022 : A masked reveler wearing a traditional carnival costume poses on St Mark Square, Venice during the annual carnival. Drunken revelers in harlequin costumes, carrying flambeaux as they scramble across the Rialto bridge, have figured in paintings, stories, movies for centuries. Officially banned in 1797, carnival persisted as a underground tradition for more than a century, and was finally reinstated in 1979. The Venice carnival was an inspiration for Mendelssohn's "Italian" symphony, and for Edgar Allan Poe's "The Cask of Amondillado," which takes place during "the supreme madness of the carnival season." Remember Fortunato lured by Poe's vengeful narrator to a distant catacomb where he is walled up alive? Adding to the grotesque irony, he is wearing the classic carnival costume: "parti-striped dress," with "conical cap and bells." In this Feb.11, 2017 file photo, men wears masks, some of them pest doctor masks, in St. Mark's Square in Venice, Italy. This carnival mask derives from 16th century doctors wearing beak-nosed masks filled with aromatic herbs to cleanse the air they breathed when treating the sick. Venices central place in the history of battling pandemics and pestilence will come into focus at this years Venice Film Festival, which opens Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2021, with the premiere of Pedro Almodovars in-competition Madres Paralelas (Parallel Mothers), which he developed during Spains 2020 coronavirus lockdown, one of the harshest in the West. It is from Venice that we get the carnival masks originally made of porcelain or leather, and often associated with stock characters of the Italian "Commedia dell'arte": Columbina, Pantalone, the Arlecchino or "harlequin," and the Plague Doctor with his long beak. These are the established "characters" of the Venice carnival and one way it differs from the New Orleans Mardi Gras, where revelers are more or less free to go where their fancy takes them. "In Venice they might pick which characters they want to be, but they don't do the kind of costumes we do," Mack said. Russia One of the world's most popular ballets is "Petrushka," by Igor Stravinsky. It's the story of a marionette who is brought to life, and his pathetic love for a fellow marionette who has shall we say strings attached. A performer wearing a scary mask entertains the public during the Shrovetide Spring festival near the Kremlin in Moscow on Feb. 24, 2020. Shrovetide or Maslenitsa is an ancient farewell ceremony to winter, traditionally celebrated in Belarus, Russia and Ukraine and involves the burning of a large effigy. Key to the story is the settling the Shrove-Tide fair in 1830s St. Petersburg, also known as Maslenitsa or "pancake week." Which is to say, carnival. The puppet theater, where a magician brings the unhappy Petrushka to life, is just one of the many attractions. In Stravinsky's 1911 ballet, there are also gypsies, dancing bears, merry-go-rounds and masquers pounding the pavement to an accordion tune. What there are not are pancakes, or blini in Russia, the hallmark of the holiday. Perhaps it's just hard to show a pancake dancing. This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Where to celebrate Mardi Gras? Not just New Orleans Silvia Lopez Gayubas's body was found inside her car in Northern Spain, according to multiple outlets Facebook/Silvia Lopez Gayubas Silvia Lopez Gayubas Two Russian teenagers were arrested in Spain and accused of killing their adoptive mother this week. Silvia Lopez Gayubas, 48, was found dead Wednesday night in Castro Urdiales, Cantabria, where her body was discovered inside a car in the garage of her family home, according to local newspaper El Diario Montanes. The mother was found with a bag over her head and "blows and a stab wound to the neck," per the outlet. El Espanol reported that she was discovered around 9 p.m., before Spain's Civil Guard began to search the area for her two missing teenage children, which the outlet noted are Russian. The pair were eventually discovered in a local park after a search ended around 2 a.m., per El Diario Montanes. The teens whom the outlet notes were aged 15 and 13 also reportedly faked a kidnapping, which they allegedly called their grandmother about. The boys' father was reportedly working overnight. "He didn't believe it. He was devastated," a source told El Diario. Getty Police tape Related: Woman Charged with Murder After Body of Son, 42, Is Discovered in Wooden Box Behind 'False Wall' As El Correro notes, the Investigative Court No. 5 of Santander agreed to the eldest child's "closed confinement" for six months. He will reportedly be admitted into the Parayas Youth Socio-Educational Center. Since the youngest child is 13, he was too young to be charged, per El Diario. The outlet reports that both children were adopted from Russia and that they were transferred to the Armed Institute Command in Santander after the alleged crime. The youngest child entered a child protection center and was waiting to be transferred to the Juvenile Prosecutor's Office, where he would undergo a psychosocial examination, per El Diario. A prosecutor will then decide whether to request a "precautionary measure" from a juvenile judge, the outlet also notes. Related: Atlanta Man Fatally Shot, Robbed by Group Who Then Stole Dog in Targeted Attack There were no previous complaints about the family and no reports of previous violence in the family, per the outlet. The Civil Guard of Spain has not found an alleged weapon as of 1:30 p.m. local time Thursday. Susana Herran, the mayor of Castro, expressed her "dismay at this tragic news," according to El Diario. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. 'The deer was freed and ran off into the woods unharmed!' the New Philadelphia Police Department shared on Facebook New Philadelphia Police Department Deer freed from hammock by the New Philadelphia Police Department Ohio police stepped in to help a deer in a twisted situation. On Wednesday, Ohio's New Philadelphia Police Department shared a video to their Facebook page of Police Chief Tessa Pohovey, patrolman Dakota Garbrandt-Hill, and K9 handler Brad Geist working together to help a deer free its antlers from a hammock made of thick ropes. When the authorities arrived, they found the wild animal deeply entangled in the outdoor hammock. Police officers told Fox 8 that the more the deer tried to thrash around and free itself, the more tired and tangled up it got. Once the deer tired out from trying to escape, the officers grabbed hold of its antlers to "control" it and then used a knife to "saw through the ropes of the hammock which was attached between two trees," said Pohovey. New Philadelphia Police Department New Philadelphia Police Department officers freeing a deer tangled in a hammock Per the caption on the Facebook post, "The deer was freed and ran off into the woods unharmed!" after some successful teamwork. Related: Opossum with Sweet Tooth Caught on Camera Swiping 15-Year-Old's Birthday Cookie Delivery "I love when we have a good outcome. We have a lot of deer in Tuscarawas County, and when we saw the deer trotted off freely, it was a good feeling to save the deer's life," Pohovey told Fox 8. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. New Philadelphia Police Department Deer returning to the wild after being freed from a hammock by the New Philadelphia Police Department Unfortunately, this is not the first time a deer has found themselves tangled up. In November 2023, residents in Pennsylvania called the Bethel Park Police Department so often about a deer that appeared to have a net stuck in its antlers that the police released a statement about the animal. Related: Sighting of Deer in Collar with 'Pet' Painted on Its Body Prompts Warning from Mo. Officials They told residents that they were aware of the issue involving the animal. They recommended that anyone encountering a deer that appeared in distress should contact their local game commission. CBS News spoke with Bethel Park hunter Bill Magnotti, who said that the deer in question appeared to be "very mobile" and would be "fine." For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Pensacolas very own George Bistro + Bar has been named No. 28 in Yelp's newly released Top 100 Romantic Restaurants for Valentine's Day Dinner 2024 in the United States. George Bistro + Bar, 6205 N. Ninth Ave., has been a steady Pensacola staple for everything from a glamourous brunch to a quick lunch on the run since the first location opened in 2015. The food has South-meets-South inspiration, from the South of France to the Southern region of the United States in the Florida Panhandle and is open for lunch, dinner and weekend brunch. We are honored to be your date night destination, any night of the year, but especially for Valentines Day! George Bistro + Bar shared in a social media statement following the announcement. For Valentines Week Reservations, visit GeorgeBistroAndBar.com or find us on Yelp! Some of George's most talked about menu items include their 72-hour braised short ribs, chilled Maine lobster roll, thinly sliced beef carpaccio and grilled lamb chops. Not only is the food flavorful and artistically plated, but the restaurant also carries an elegant yet comfortable aesthetic whether youre seated at a table, booth or bar. To create the list, Yelp first identified businesses in the restaurants and food categories with a large concentration of reviews mentioning words and phrases such as "romantic," "date night" and "valentine," Yelp wrote in a statement on the lists methodology. Then, they ranked those spots using factors such as the total volume and ratings of reviews mentioning those keywords. We included a maximum of five businesses per city for geographic diversity, Yelp wrote in a statement. News Bites: Union Public, Salt both debut Sunday brunch menus When it was all said and done, it was no surprise to Pensacola that George made the cut. This isnt the first time George has landed on a Yelp list, as it was featured in Top 100 Florida Restaurants for 2023 last March and then again for Yelps Top 100 Brunch Spots for Mothers Day 2023 in May. Last week, Georges new sister restaurant, Pearl & Horn, landed on a list of our own showcasing nine of Pensacolas most romantic restaurants. Whichever of the two restaurants you chose, George or Pearl & Horn, the food, cocktails and atmosphere will make for a meal you wont soon forget. Hungry for more? Stay up to date on the latest restaurant news by subscribing to our free Pensacola Eats newsletter, delivered to your inbox every Wednesday. Sign up for the newsletter at profile.pnj.com/newsletters/pensacola-eats/. This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Yelp Top 100 Romantic Restaurant includes George Bistro in Pensacola EXETER My goal was simply to alter the mood of a normal picture by making it bolder while sometimes creating a more aggressive feeling atmosphere, says photographer and retired educator Dean Scott of Exeter about his "altered photography" that will be showing at the Seacoast Artist Association in Exeter in February. Having long worked with traditional photography, I felt ready to try a different approach. The paintings of several local artists inspired me to treat my photos as a canvas. Using my laptop, I started drawing and painting on the photos. I set up an intense color palate as well as softer palates and experimented using different computer art programs. I have not abandoned traditional photography. In fact, my current approach starts there. I've always been attracted to design elements and patterns in nature. From those sources, statements can be made. Those statements can be pushed, prodded and exploded. "Born and raised in Somersworth, I was interested in art and music at an early age. I played guitar and drums and enjoyed drawing for my own amusement. I pursued my interest in art by attending the University of New Hampshire. Printmaking, photography and drawing were my specialties. I graduated with a BS in Art Education. Later, I earned a MS in Education at the University of New England. In 1973, I began my teaching career in the Exeter School District. For the first five years I taught art in grades K through 12 at five different schools. After that, I taught at the High School until retirement in 2006 In the 1980s I served two years on the advisory board with Boston Globe Scholastic Arts. In the 2000s I served five years on the advisory board with New Hampshire Scholastic Arts and later served as an official to help adjudicate awards and scholarships for deserving high school artists. In the 90s during an eight-year period, I participated in the Belize-New Hampshire Teachers Program out of UNH. I conducted workshops for teachers and lead classroom projects in village elementary schools. Machiasport Farmhouse, altered photograph by Dean Scott "In early 2000s, I co-directed the Zimbabwe-NH Teachers Program (UNH) for three years. We ended the program due to unstable political conditions. From 2006 to 2011, I was part of the Exeter Arts Committee and chaired the committee for the last four years of my membership. From 2011 to 2014, I formed the '30under30' Committee. With some of my former art students, we hosted exhibits encouraging artist under 30 years old to show their work at the Town Hall Gallery. Now, after a long hiatus, I am back to exhibiting my art." Deans show Photos as a Canvas runs through Sunday, Feb. 25. Jim Faist of Kingston has won Best in Show at the February "Let Me Show You What I Love" theme show for his photo "Walking Each Other Home. "The image title is from the spiritual teachings of Ram Dass, who has been a major influence and ongoing guide in my life. The backstory to the image also helps understand the title: While walking in the Newburyport woods with my wife, we received word that her brother Michael had transitioned from this plane, after a long illness. We decided to head over to the beach at Salisbury State Park, to walk, contemplate, and enjoy the energy of the Seacoast. As we walked up the beach towards Salisbury, the visual elements which are the basis of this image began to align, and I was happy to think that this was a good message, on this day." All artists are welcome to submit artwork for the March theme show Shadows and Light. Members get a discounted rate for theme show submissions, so now is a good time to join the SAA. You can do that at drop-off on Saturday, Feb. 24, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., or online at seacoastartist.org. Attendees at the Second Friday receptions vote for the Peoples Choice Award and the winner received a future free months entry. See more details at seacoastartist.org and follow updates on Facebook. The Seacoast Artist Association gallery is located at 130 Water Street in historic downtown Exeter. Hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 1 to 4 p.m. Parking is free. Email gallery@seacoastartist.org with questions. This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: 'Photos as Canvas' opens and best in show awarded at SAA The two-time Oscar nominee shares stories and memories with PEOPLE Robert De Niro is revisiting special moments from his past and sharing moving stories from the present. Sitting down with PEOPLE, the 80-year-old two-time Oscar winner looks at photos taken over the course of his lifetime: his childhood in New York City, his more memorable roles in films like Taxi Driver and his recent Oscar-nominated turn in Killers of the Flower Moon and his time as a father of seven children. De Niro, who was raised by painters Robert De Niro Sr. and Virginia Admiral in downtown New York City (they split when he was young) says he had an okay childhood. I had good memories and others that I suppose like anybody would. I'm glad that I grew up in New York, was raised in New York, he continues. Courtesy of HBO and Canal Productions Robert De Niro and his father, Robert De Niro Sr., in the 1940s De Niro dropped out of high school to pursue performance and studied at renowned Manhattan institutions. In the 1960s, he worked on Off-Broadway productions and began his career in film. Related: Robert De Niro on His Iconic Career, the Great Joy of Fatherhood and His Future: You Got to Be Ready (Exclusive) After starring in 1973s Mean Streets his first collaboration with Martin Scorsese De Niro appeared as young Vito Corleone in 1974s The Godfather Part II. He won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor, but wasnt at the ceremony to collect the prize. De Niro was shooting the war-romance 1900 in Italy, and he found out he won via phone call. They called me on a landline in those days, he says. I was happy. Everett Michael V. Gazzo and Robert De Niro in 'The Godfather Part II' He again worked with Scorsese on the 1976 movie Taxi Driver playing depressed Vietnam War veteran Travis Bickle. He and Scorsese decided to give Bickle a mohawk haircut to fit the character, but there was one problem. Michael Schwartz Robert De Niro on the cover of PEOPLE "I was going to shoot The Last Tycoon after, where I needed hair and wavy hair, like Irving Thalberg, says De Niro, who got Dick Smith, the makeup artist from The Godfather Part II, to create a mohawk cap. "He was a great makeup artist. We did a test and it looked good. The actor won his second Oscar playing boxer Jake LaMotta in Raging Bull. For the role, De Niro gained 60 pounds. The weight of course was difficult after the first 15 pounds. It's just work, he says. ABC Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Robert De Niro wins the Best Actor Oscar for 'Raging Bull' What did he eat? Just everything, he continues. And the doctor was monitoring it cholesterol and things like that, but it was hard. His on-screen wife Vikki was played by a then-unknown model named Cathy Moriarty. She was just great for the part, he says. I think Joe Pesci told us that he knew of a girl that he'd see in clubs or whatever. And so she came in and she was perfect. (Indeed, Moriarty was nominated for a Best Supporting Actress Oscar for portraying the complex character.) De Niro also discusses his life as a father to Drena, 56, and Raphael, 47 (with his first wife Diahnne Abbott), twins Julian and Aaron, 28 (with ex-girlfriend Toukie Smith) and Elliot, 25, and Helen, 12 (with ex-wife Grace Hightower), and 10-month old Gia, whom he shares with his girlfriend, martial arts instructor Tiffany Chen, 45. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Courtesy Robert De Niro Robert De Niro and daughter Gia last September Of his youngest, whom he welcomed last April, he says, shes such an adorable baby. So sweet. [When I] look at her, everything else goes away. So its a great joy and relief to just be with her in the moment. Watch the video above to see De Niro talk about other moments, like making Meet the Parents with Ben Stiller and founding the Tribeca Film Festival. For more on Robert De Niro, pick up the new issue of PEOPLE. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. The Missoula Children's Theatre will be holding performances of Cinderella at the Cheboygan Opera House on Feb. 10. CHEBOYGAN The Missoula Childrens Theatre is making a stop in Cheboygan on Saturday for a special performance of "Cinderella." About 60 children from around the region will be featured in the performance, with anyone between kindergarten and 12th grade being able to participate. Auditions were on Feb. 5, and rehearsals were held with a professional actor and director team from the Missoula Childrens Theatre from Feb. 5-9. The children's theatre, based in Missoula, Montana, will perform their adaptation of the fairy tale on Saturday, with a show at 3 p.m. and another at 5:30 p.m., both at the Cheboygan Opera House. Owen Goslin, executive director of the Cheboygan Opera House, said the Missoula Children's Theatre sends people to help put on a performance each year. Around 64 students were set to participate in the play, but due to illness, only 60 will be in the final production. The play is entirely produced and written by the Missoula Childrens Theatre, including original music and choreography. Every time they come, it's usually based on the fairy tale, but it is a spin, Goslin said. "So it's not like, Oh, they're just telling the Red Riding Hood story or the Cinderella story. No, it's going to be a little different. Goslin said the theatre troupe has been coming to Cheboygan annually for about 20 years, with a slight break during the COVID-19 pandemic. Auditions are held after school on a Monday, and then rehearsals run Monday through Friday. Any student that can commit to being at rehearsals can participate, meaning students from all around the region will be in the show, Goslin said. Children participating in the show are coming from Cheboygan, Mackinaw City, Inland Lakes and Gaylord. Subscribe: Get unlimited access to our local coverage Goslin said people consistently come back for this show, and that he enjoys seeing a wide age range of participants. This is the spectrum of kids, Goslin said. It includes dance, music and acting, and I think if you keep in mind that a lot of these kids are doing theater for the first time they put this on in five days that you will really be impressed by the quality. It holds up very well. Because the group visits each year, Goslin said to keep an eye out for the 2025 calendar if there is an interest in participating. Tickets for the performances can be purchased at theoperahouse.org. Tickets are $5 for students and $20 for adults. Contact reporter Karly Graham at kgraham@petoskeynews.com. Follow her on Twitter at @KarlyGrahamJRN. This article originally appeared on The Petoskey News-Review: Special performances of 'Cinderella' set for Saturday at the Cheboygan Opera House A little-known fact is that more than half of adults in America do not have estate planning documents in place. Another little-known fact is that Americans spend more money on attorneys to find their way out of the challenges this creates than anyone can imagine. After being asked to conduct 250 presentations to companies large and small, colleges, universities, nonprofit organizations, bodies of faith and everything in between, what is the main reason people do not take the appropriate steps to prepare basic estate planning documents? They do not make an appointment to start the process. Here is what experts tell us: Most dont know where to begin. What you may not know is the North Carolina Bar Association provides residents access to an attorney for a 30-minute conversation for $50. (919.677.8574). And often the attorney will not charge you at all. An experienced estate planning attorney can tell you a lot about what you need to know in 30 minutes (often in a scheduled telephone conference): The things you need to bring to an initial meeting with an attorney. The costs to prepare basic documents. What basic financial information you should bring. Will you need to have documents (deeds, etc.) to an initial sit-down session. Below are answers to these basic questions. 1. What do you need to bring to that initial session? Not much. Citizens assume they will have to provide a specific listing of every detail. Attorneys can often send you simple paperwork to complete by mail or fill out online. General estimates of values are all that is necessary. It is helpful if you provide the names of individuals in your immediate family: your spouse or significant other and children or close friends, including their mailing addresses and contact information. It is helpful if you have a good idea about whom you want to handle your estate when you pass away (the executor of your will) and while you are living the person you want to be your financial/general power of attorney. 2. What is this going to cost you? The initial session is often without charge. The attorney can provide you with a set fee, depending on what documents need to be handled $500 or more for a simple will, for example. Many firms will accept half the amount to get started and the final half when the documents are executed. The date to execute the documents will generally be in a matter of a few weeks. 3. What basic financial information will you need to frame up a basic plan? A general summary of the value of each account/asset is sufficient. 4. Will you have to bring copies of your various financial records? No. In the next column we will discuss other helpful tips to begin and complete your planning. Remember: An informed choice is a smart choice. The post Sum 41 Perform New Single Landmines on Jimmy Kimmel Live: Watch appeared first on Consequence. Sum 41 graced the stage of Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Thursday night (February 8th) to perform their current single Landmines from their forthcoming final album, Heaven :x: Hell. Frontman Deryck Whibley and company ripped through the infectious pop-punk tune in front a fiery backdrop, receiving a warm round of applause from the Kimmel audience at the end of the performance. Sum 41 will embark on an extensive farewell tour beginning March 1st in Jakarta, Indonesia. The first of two US legs will kick off April 19th in Omaha, Nebraska, while the Canadian bands last concert ever will be a hometown show in Toronto on January 30th, 2025. Tickets to the North American gigs are available here, while tickets to the international dates can be purchased at this location. Heaven :x: Hell, a 20-song double album that features pop-punk on one disc and heavy metal on the other disc, is set to arrive on March 29th. Get Sum 41 Tickets Here Watch Sum 41 perform Landmines on Jimmy Kimmel Live! below, and pre-order the new album here. Sum 41 Perform New Single Landmines on Jimmy Kimmel Live: Watch Spencer Kaufman Popular Posts Subscribe to Consequences email digest and get the latest breaking news in music, film, and television, tour updates, access to exclusive giveaways, and more straight to your inbox. Season 13 of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills has been an emotional one for Sutton Stracke. We have seen her have a not-so-magical meltdown at Magic Mike Live. Kyle Richards and Dorit Kemsley talked about Suttons drinking behind her back. That led to Sutton accusing Kyle and her husband, Mauricio Umansky, of having marital problems during the infamous weed dinner. However, newbie Annemarie Wiley, the nurse anesthetist, came in hot and was fixated on Suttons narrow esophagus. It wasa lot. But then Sutton showed how much she supported Kyle by being there for her at Kyles friends Celebration of Life event. Finally, the ladies reached Barcelona, Spain. But Sutton brought a traveling companion in a little Ziploc bag. It was the ashes of her mentor, Merce Cunningham. Back in the 90s, Sutton worked at his studio. Sutton is ready to release some pent-up emotion During the RHOBH: After Show, Sutton reflected on letting Merce go, and scattering his ashes in the ocean. Three important men in my life. Merce was one of them. My father was another. Then Christian [Stracke], and I had to let them go, Sutton explained, becoming emotional. I did. I had to let my marriage go and though I didnt have my dads ashes, sorry, theyre somewhere floating around the universe. He was with me, and umm my marriage lingers sometimes, she added. I know, Suttons friend, Garcelle Beauvais, replied. But not anymore, you know, especially [off] this time when Christians moving to London, and its really done, Sutton stated. When Sutton scattered the ashes, the wind blew it back towards her RHOBH co-stars. Oh, sorry, the wind is blowing that way. Sorry, girls! Sutton said during the episode. It was kind of a calm day but you know youve also got my father in this. My father and Merce and they were both very protective of me and so if yall picking on me, he came back at you, Sutton said. And missed me completely! Well, the healing ceremony and Sutton scattering Merces ashes was certainly a memorable moment. I guess Merce and Suttons dad got their revenge on the ladies for giving Sutton a hard time. The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills continues on Wednesdays at 8/7c on Bravo. TELL US DO YOU THINK THAT IT WAS TIME FOR SUTTON TO LET GO OF HER MARRIAGE? WHAT DID YOU THINK OF THE HEALING CEREMONY? The post Sutton Stracke Reflects on Late Father and Ex-Husband appeared first on Reality Tea. Tucker Carlson released his two-hour interview with Vladimir Putin, the Russian president whose military is deep into its second year of the Ukraine invasion, marking an unprecedented sitdown between an American journalist and adversarial head of state during wartime. Watch it here. The Putin interview in its entirety was offered for free and unedited, Carlson said Tuesday when he announced that he was in Moscow to visit with Putin. Days before the interview, Carlson was spotted in and around Moscow, taking in the city and chatting with citizens who clearly recognized him. The now-independent journalist said he paid for all aspects of the trip himself, and repeated his claim that the U.S. government had been spying on and harassing him in an attempt to shut down any Putin interview. Carlson was fired from Fox News last April, days after the network settled and paid in full a defamation lawsuit brought by Dominion Voting Systems for $787 million. Since then he has launched his own media company on multiple platforms, including a paid streaming service. During his time on Fox News, critics called Carlson a Putin apologist for his questioning of the U.S.s support for Ukraine, and his multiple public efforts to secure an interview with the Russian leader. Carlson was criticized Tuesday for claiming to be the only Western journalist interested in hearing Putins side; that claim turned out to be false, as multiple journalists came out of the woodwork to note that they had reached out and were repeatedly denied, which the Kremlin later corroborated. Carlson has lately become an experienced interviewer of right-leaning world leaders, including Hungarian president Viktor Orban and Argentinas newly elected Javier Milei. Though Barbara Walters famously traveled to Havana to interview Fidel Castro in 1977, Dan Rather interviewed Saddam Hussein in 2003 (before the Iraq invasion) and Laura Logan (then at CBS) interviewed the Taliban commander in occupied Afghanistan, Carlsons interview with Putin would seem to mark the first time an American journalist sat down with a wartime head of state against whom the U.S. was currently supporting an adversary. Though not technically at war with Russia, the U.S. has sent nearly $100 billion in military and other aid since the invasion began Feb. 24, 2022, according to some estimates. The Biden Administration is seeking another $110 billion some of which would backfill Ukraine-related Pentagon expenses in legislative proposals that have recently stalled in Congress. The post Tucker Carlson Drops His 2-Hour Vladimir Putin Interview appeared first on TheWrap. Tucker Carlson has shared his longform interview with Russias president Vladimir Putin, discussing the political leaders justifications for Russias invasion of Ukraine. The video, running more than two hours, represents the first time that the Russian leader has been interviewed by a Western journalist since the conflict started nearly two years ago. The interview, as you will see if you watch it, is primarily about the war in progress, the war in Ukraine how it started, whats happening and, most pressingly, how it might end, Carlson said at the start of the video, speaking to the camera while standing in front of the Kremlin. At the beginning of the interview, we asked the most obvious question, which is Why did you do this? Did you feel a threat, an imminent physical threat, and thats your justification? The answer we got shocked us. Putin went on for a very long time, probably half an hour, about the history of Russia going back to the eighth century. And honestly, we thought this was a filibustering technique and found it annoying and interrupted him several times. More from Variety But we concluded in the end, for what its worth, that it was not a filibustering technique. There was no time limit on the interview. We ended it after two hours. Instead what youre about to see seemed, to us, sincere, whether you agree with it or not, Carlson continued. Vladimir Putin believes that Russia has a historic claim to parts of western Ukraine. So our opinion would be to view, in that light, as a sincere expression of what he thinks. Carlson announced the interview on Tuesday, the same day that the interview took place at the Kremlin in Moscow. At the time, the former Fox News anchor claimed that not a single Western journalist had bothered to interview the president of the other country in this conflict. The Kremlin denied the allegation, stating it has denied several publications requests to speak with Putin. Additionally, in March 2022, shortly following the invasion of Ukraine, Russia passed a law deeming it illegal to publish false information about the military many news organizations extricated their staff members from the country. During the interview, Carlson brings up the topic of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who has been imprisoned for more than 250 days after being charged with espionage, which the U.S. government and the Journal deny. The anchor expressed his hope that Gershkovich would be released. We have done so many gestures of goodwill out of decency that I think we have run out of them, Putin said when asked about the possibility of releasing Gershkovich. We have never seen anyone reciprocate to us in a similar manner I do not rule out that the person you refer to may return to his motherland. We want the U.S. Special Services to think about how they can contribute to achieving the goals our special services are pursuing. When asked to explain the blocks of alliances in the geopolitical situation, Putin became more vague. Listen, you have said that the world is breaking into two hemispheres. A human brain is divided into two hemispheres. One is responsible for one type of activities, the other one is more about creativity and so on. But it is still one in the same head, Putin said. The world should be a single whole. Security should be shared, rather than a demand for the golden billion. That is the only scenario where the world could be stable, sustainable and predictable. Until then, while the head is split in two parts it is an illness a serious adverse condition. Carlson shared the full interview for free viewing through the Tucker Carlson Network a digital platform that he launched following his exit from Fox News last summer, touting it as an alternative to legacy media. Ep. 73 The Vladimir Putin Interview pic.twitter.com/67YuZRkfLL Tucker Carlson (@TuckerCarlson) February 8, 2024 Best of Variety Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Has Vicki Gunvalson officialized Bravo fans worst fears over Real Housewives: Ultimate Girls Trip? For those whove somehow managed to avoid all the news around RHUGT Morocco, here are the general goings-on. And keep in mind, this is all alleged. The Morocco trip was meant to be RHUGT Season 4. For a while, everything seemed normal, and fans expected to see Vicki come back for another girls trip, along with the likes of Brandi Glanville. But things took a turn for the worse when Caroline Manzo accused Brandi of sexual assault. Recently, Caroline filed an official lawsuit against Bravo, alleging that producers allowed, enabled, and even encouraged Brandis alleged behavior. If RHUGT Moroccos fate wasnt certain enough, the lawsuit sealed the deal for most fans. Still, Bravo hasnt issued an official statement. But now, Vickis sharing her two cents. Vicki says Brandi was traumatized over RHUGT: Morocco Vicki appeared on the February 7 episode of Brandis podcast, Brandi Glanville Unfiltered. During their chat, Brandi revealed that, in response to their previous Girls Trip together, Even the head of Bravo herself like, sent us a message saying, This is like, the best show ever. Vicki added, And she said this show is even the one thats not gonna air she said its [an] incredible show. Brandi didnt doubt it, adding, Im sure! In less than a sentence, Vicki confirmed what many fans had been fearing for months now. If Vicki is to be taken at her word, then RHUGT Morocco is not going to air. However, it was not an official confirmation. As Vicki iterated in the same podcast, So, Morocco, I dont think is gonna air, right? Brandi agreed, I think no because of this lawsuit, and so, unfortunate because I feel like I spent a year already like being Vicki finished her thought: Traumatized. So, just to reiterate, nothing has been confirmed by Bravo. But not even the stars have faith that the show will see the light of day. TELL US WHAT DO YOU THINK OF VICKI AND BRANDIS CLAIMS HERE? The post Vicki Gunvalson Says RHUGT: Morocco Wont Air appeared first on Reality Tea. Russian President Vladimir Putin during the annual press conference at the World Trade Center in Krasnaya Presnya December 14, 2016 in Moscow, Russia. Putin confirmed he will be running for re-election in the upcoming presidential elections. 14 Dec 2017 Pictured: Russian President Vladimir Putin during the annual press conference at the World Trade Center in Krasnaya Presnya December 14, 2016 in Moscow, Russia. Putin confirmed he will be running for re-election in the upcoming presidential elections. Photo credit: ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA TheMegaAgency.com +1 888 505 6342 (Mega Agency TagID: MEGA133704_001.jpg) [Photo via Mega Agency] Former Fox News host Tucker Carlson has interviewed Russian President Vladimir Putin, and the video has just been released to the public. This interview, which was shot on February 6, has been a hot topic, as this is the first time the Russian President has been interviewed by a Western journalist since Russia invaded Ukraine almost two years ago. Leading up to the release, Carlson didn't give many details away on what exactly the two would discuss, but he did inform the public as to why he decided to interview the Russian President, saying that "first and foremost because it's our job." "We are in journalism [and] our duty is to inform people," he added before bringing up the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian War. Tucker Carlson Interviews Vladamir Putin Regarding Ukrainian War BREAKING: The bombshell Vladimir Putin Interview with Tucker Carlson just dropped on https://t.co/6X7P886TBs. You can watch here. https://t.co/P231qva2Ft pic.twitter.com/Hoe5ldPQeF Simon Ateba (@simonateba) February 8, 2024 "Most Americans have no idea why Putin invaded Ukraine or what his goals are now. We are not here because we love Vladimir PutinWe are not encouraging you to agree with what Putin may say in this interview, but we are urging you to watch it. You should know as much as you can," he said. "Americans have a right to know all they can about a war they're implicated in, and we have the right to tell them about it," Carlson said in his statement early Thursday, February 8. The former Fox News host accused the "populations of English-speaking countries seem unaware" of what is really going on in the world "because no one has told them to truth." He then accused media outlets of being "corrupt." He then brought up how America has done several interviews with Ukrainian President Zelensky, but called them all "fawning pep sessions specifically designed to amplify Zelensky's demand that the U.S. enter more deeply." Vladamir Putin Says Russia Has A Historic Claim To Parts Of Western Ukraine As Carlson feels Americans need to hear from both sides, he sat down with Putin for an "unedited" interview, where Putin claimed he believes Russia has a historic claim to parts of western Ukraine, which is why the war began. Carlson began the two-hour interview by telling viewers that Putin went on for a very long time, probably half an hour about the history of Russia going back to the eighth century. And honestly, we thought this was a filibustering technique and found it annoying and interrupted him several times and he responded he was annoyed by the interruption." But we concluded in the end for what it's worth, that it was not a filibustering technique, there was no time limit on the interview, we ended it after more than two hours. Instead, what you're about to see seemed to us sincere whether you agree with it or not. Vladimir Putin believes that Russia has a historic claim to parts of western Ukraine, he said. So our opinion would be to view it in that light as a sincere expression of what he thinks, Carlson added. Carlson has faced major backlash for the interview, but it could worsen as a travel ban could be instituted by the European Union. Tucker Carlson's two-hour, seven-minute interview with Vladimir Putin was recorded on February 6, but it was just released to the public on February 8. Carlson recently traveled to Moscow for Putins first interview with a Western media figure since Russias invasion of Ukraine began in 2022. The bombshell interview first revealed that Putin "believes that Russia has a historic claim to parts of western Ukraine." "What you're about to see seemed to us, sincere, whether you agree with it or not. Vladimir Putin believes that Russia has a historic claim to parts of western Ukraine, the former Fox News host said ahead of the interview. So our opinion would be to view it in that light as a sincere expression of what he thinks, Carlson added. Vladimir Putin Accuses CIA Of Nord Stream Pipeline Blasts MEGA Putin kicked off the interview with a long history lesson, going back centuries, claiming that "originally, the word Ukrainian meant that the person was living on the outskirts of the state along the fringes or was engaged in a border patrol service. It didn't mean any particular ethnic group." The interview then slowly moved into various topics, including the Nord Stream pipeline explosions. As you know, on September 26, 2022, several blasts were reported -- some 17 hours apart -- that ruptured three out of four lines of the Nord Stream system. During his interview with Tucker Carlson, Russian President Vladimir Putin suggested the CIA was the one behind the blasts. Tucker: "Who blew up Nord Stream?" Putin: "You for sure." Tucker: "I was busy that day. I did not blow up Nord Stream." Putin: "You personally may have an alibi, but the CIA has no such alibi." The investigation into the explosions in 2022 on Nord Stream pipelines carrying Russian gas to Germany was recently dropped. Putin Claims Ukraine Is An Artificial State Shaped At Stalins Will' MEGA During Putin's long-winded Russian history lesson, Carlson interrupted to ask the President: You obviously have an encyclopedic knowledge of this region, but why didn't you make this case for the first 22 years as president that Ukraine wasn't a real country? To which Putin replied: The Soviet Union was given a great deal of territory that had never belonged to including the Black Sea region, received Bucha at some point, when Russia received them as an outcome of the Russo-Turkish wars, they were called New Russia ... but that does not matter. What matters is that Lenin the founder of the Soviet state ... established Ukraine that way. For decades, the Ukrainian Soviet Republic developed as part of the USSR. And for unknown reasons, again, the Bolsheviks were engaged in Ukrainian causation. It was not merely because the Soviet leadership was composed to a great extent of those originating from Ukraine. Rather, it was explained by the general policy of indigenization pursued by the Soviet Union." MEGA Putin went on to say that the same things were done in other Soviet republics, which involved "promoting national languages and national cultures ... that is how the Soviet Ukraine was created." "After World War Two Ukraine received in addition to the lands that had belonged to Poland before the war, both of the lands that had previously belonged to Hungary and Romania So Romania and Hungary had some of their lands taken away and given to the Soviet Ukraine, and they still remain part of Ukrainian," he went on, before claiming that they have "every reason to affirm that Ukraine is an artificial state that was shaped at Stalin's will." Tucker Carlson's bombshell interview with Vladimir Putin is available now to stream. Speaking to Tucker Carlson, Russian president Vladimir Putin essentially blamed America for the continued imprisonment of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich. I do not rule out that the person you refer to, Gershkovich, may return to his motherland, said Putin at the end of the two-hour video, which was released on Thursday. But at the end of the day, it does not make any sense to keep him in prison in Russia. We want the US Special Services to think about how they can contribute to achieving the goals or special services theyre pursuing. Were ready to talk. Moreover, the talks are underway. Putin put the onus for releasing the journalist, who has been held in Russia for nearly a year on false charges of espionage, on the United States. We have done so many gestures of goodwill, out of decency that I think we have run out of them. You havent yet. No, we have never seen anyone that reciprocate to us in a similar manner. For money however, in theory, we can say that we do not rule out that we can do that we share testimonials from looking for partners take reciprocal steps to reach them. Carlson tried to make the case that Gershkovich is simply a reporter who was reporting on the Ukraine war and not a spy, but Putin was not dissuaded. What makes this different is the guys obviously not and maybe he was breaking your law in some way but hes not a super spy and everybody knows that.Maybe its not fair to ask for, you know somebody else in exchange for letting him out. Maybe it degrades Russia to do that? asked the former Fox News anchor. Putin responded, You can give a different interpretation as to what constitutes a spy. If a person gets secret information and does that in a conspiratorial manner, then this is qualified as espionage. And that is exactly what he was doing. He was receiving classified confidential information, and he did it covertly. The Russian leader said there is an ongoing dialogue about releasing the journalist, adding, This has to be resolved in a calm, responsible and professional manner. At the end of the day, it does not make any sense to keep him in prison in Russia, said Putin. We want the US Special Services to think about how they can contribute to achieving the goals theyre pursuing.Were ready to talk. Moreover, the talks are underway. Putin assured Carlson that he is absolutely sincere in wanting to free Gershkovich. The post Vladimir Putin Says Russia Has Run Out of Decency, and Its on the US to Take Reciprocal Steps to Free Evan Gershkovich appeared first on TheWrap. The fallout from Warner Music Groups company-wide cull has already reached Australia, where the head of the domestic Warner Chappell company, Matthew Capper, is understood to be among the departures. Capper has led Warner Chappell Australia as managing director since 2010, and boasts more than 20 years service with the company. More from Billboard A popular figure in the music publishing community, Capper joined Warner Chappell in 2003, initially as a copyright/royalty analyst, was promoted to general manager in 2004, and was named managing director in July 2010. Prior to working at Warner Chappell, Capper cut his teeth as administration manager at Festival Music Publishing, a now-defunct Australian independent music publishing brand which was acquired by Mushroom Music in 2005. Outside of his duties leading Warner Chappells affiliate from Melbourne, he is non-executive director of APRA and AMCOS, deputy chair of AMCOS, chair and non-executive director of publishers trade association AMPAL, and treasurer and non-executive director of ICMP, the global trade body representing the music publishing industry worldwide. On his election to the board of APRA in 2007, he become the youngest-ever director of the authors rights society, aged 30 a record that still stands. Capper will finish up with Warner Chappell Australia on Feb. 29, 2024, sources say, tying in to sweeping changes announced earlier in the week by Warner Music Group CEO Robert Kyncl. In an internal memo to staff obtained by Billboard, Kyncl wrote that the company will be reducing headcount by 10%, or some 600 people, as part of a plan to free up $200 million in cost savings to reinvest into the business. Those cost savings will be realized by the end of September 2025, Kyncl said in the memo; some of those laid off have already begun to be informed, while the vast majority will be notified by the end of September 2024, he writes. As we carry out our plan, its important to bear in mind why were making these difficult choices, the memo continued. Were getting on the front foot to create a sustainable competitive advantage over the next decade. Well do so by increasing funding behind artists and songwriters, new skill sets, and tech, to help us deliver on our three strategic priorities, which he says includes growing engagement with music, increasing the value of music and evolving how Warners teams work together. Just before news broke of those company-wide cuts, WMG announced that its quarterly revenue grew 17% for the period ended Dec. 31, 2023, up 11% in normalized revenue, to $1.75 billion its highest quarterly result ever. Best of Billboard The North Carolina Business Court on Wednesday granted Attorney General Josh Steins motion for partial summary judgment in his lawsuit against U.S. chemical giant DuPont, Chemours and other related companies. The decision broadens the scope of financial liability from Old DuPont and Chemours to include New DuPont, also known as DuPont de Nemours, and Corteva in relation to alleged PFAS contamination of North Carolinas air, land, and water. If the court finds Old DuPont, E.I. du Pont de Nemours, and Chemours responsible for PFAS contamination in the state, then Old DuPonts spinoff companies New DuPont and Corteva, would also bear liability for damages. Companies cannot engage in corporate shell games to avoid liability for the messes they make, Attorney General Josh Stein said in Thursdays press release. Im pleased that this ruling provides that Chemours, DuPont, and its related companies cannot avoid responsibility by engaging in corporate restructuring schemes. Our fight for clean drinking water continues. PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large group of manufactured chemicals that can be found in a wide range of consumer goods, from nonstick cookware to water-repellent clothing to stain resistant fabrics and carpets. People can be exposed to PFAS in various ways, like drinking and eating fish caught from PFAS contaminated water, accidentally consuming or breathing PFAS contaminated soil or dust, or eating food stored in packaging containing PFAS. While direct relation between adverse health outcomes and the substances is complicated to prove, current scientific research suggests that the exposure to PFAS can lead to health problems such as increased risk of some cancers, high blood pressure in pregnant women, and delays in children, according to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. According to surveys done by Centers for Disease and Control Prevention, most Americans have had exposure to PFAS. DuPont has faced thousands of lawsuits filed against them in recent years for its alleged PFAS contamination allegation. In November last year, Ohio state secured a $110 million settlement proposed by the company. DuPont declined to comment on Wednesdays ruling. Meanwhile, Wednesdays development comes after the North Carolina Supreme Court upheld the Business Courts decision to deny DuPonts motion to dismiss the case in November 2022. Ask anyone why they love Savannah, and there's a good chance one of the answers will boast about the city's food scene. Every corner is bustling with dining and drinking spots that satisfy various tastes. Lucky for locals and tourists alike, there's never a shortage of spots to visit, especially when new businesses are rolling in every month. Here is an update on local favorites in Savannah. Restaurant news: Popular Savannah bakery to close on Valentine's Day. 'A place of love and heart for many' For the Savannah romantics: OpenTable releases 100 most romantic restaurants list. All 3 from Georgia are in Savannah Chatham Restaurant Inspections: Raw chicken stored next to cooked foods at Chinese takeout place Local updates Wing-N-It Sav instagram.com/wingnitsav/ From pop-ups to its first food truck, Wing-N-It Sav has expanded its services. After a six-month process of building out its mobile food truck, aided by a $3,000 grant won from the community event Pote Day Weekend, the community collective is now serving wings on wheels. "This is getting into the full-circle space," owner/founder Kenneth Rouche said. "Now we have the food truck, and then from the food truck we're going to try to go the restaurant." Wings and fries from Wing-N-It Savannah. The food truck's route is determined by the customers on social media. Through polls on its Instagram @wingnitsav, the community can choose where the food truck will stop next in and around Savannah. "We're going to be wherever you all want us to be." Back in the Day Bakery 2403 Bull St.; backinthedaybakery.com After 22 years, Back in the Day Bakery will be closing its doors on Valentine's Day, Feb. 14 an appropriate day for a Bull Street staple that spread love through its sweet treats and service unmatched. "Everything has its season," declared the Instagram account as founders/owners Cheryl and Griff Day announced their farewell service. "We set out to create a food landmark in Savannah's Starland neighborhood. A gathering place for all to feel welcome, share great food, conversation and find comfort. Mission accomplished." All good things must come to an end, but the legacy and sweet treats that Cheryl and Griff Day brought to the Savannah community will never be forgotten. Make sure to save the date for the farewell service on Feb. 14 and its big closing sale on Feb. 17, where guests can buy one-of-a-kind keepsakes. Troupial A variety of arepas at Troupial. After vacating its first brick-and-mortar in the Starland District at the end of 2023, Venezuelan favorite Troupial has returned to selling its baked goods at Forsyth Farmers Market on Saturdays. Owner Majo Laprea announced on Instagram that the business had vacated the building it opened in March 2022 and has returned to selling popular Venezuelan treats in Forsyth Park and areas in and around Savannah. Stay updated on where Troupial sets up shop on its Instagram @troupialsav. This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: Wing-N-It Sav opens new food truck, expanding services in Savannah 'Suncoast' star Woody Harrelson discovered a new kind of love when he became a dad Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Deni Harrleson, Laura Louie, Woody Harrelson,and Makani Harrelson attend the premiere of "Champions" on February 27, 2023 in New York City. Woody Harrelson is the definition of a girl dad to his kids: Deni, Zoe and Makani. Harrelson has been open about how his wife, Laura Louie, and their daughters have changed his life for the better. In a 2018 interview with The Guardian, he talked about how becoming famous after appearing on Cheers caused him to become less outgoing and more negative. But, luckily, this life and my family my wife and my daughters they kind of loved me into a better human being, Harrelson said. The Suncoast star has also talked about how his children, in particular, have helped him improve mentally and emotionally by keeping him down to earth. My kids have always let me know what an idiot I am, he said to The New York Times in a 2023 interview. Lets just say they dont pat me on the back unnecessarily. Theyve helped me to be a kinder, gentler soul. Harrelson shared with Luftansa magazine that they learned how to strike a balance in their own lives. "They are strong and tough; they see through falseness. At the same time, they are optimistic and open," he said, per HuffPost. Heres everything to know about Woody Harrelsons kids: Zoe, Deni and Makani. Deni Montana Harrelson, 30 Jean Catuffe/Getty Woody Harrelson and Deni Harrelson attend the French Ligue 1 match between Paris Saint-Germain and Toulouse FC n November 7, 2015 in Paris, France. Harrelsons first child, Deni, was born on March 5, 1994. She doesnt have public social media profiles and stays out of the spotlight. That said, she has made rare appearances on the red carpet alongside her dad, mom and sisters. In February 2023, Deni walked the red carpet in New York City with her parents and younger sister Makani for the premiere of his movie Champions. She wore a stylish black-and-white matching two-piece set and a red hat for a pop of color. In a 2008 interview with Esquire, Harrelson talked about how becoming a father unexpectedly changed him. I remember my daughter Deni coming along, and she was so pure and caring of everybody and everything, he told the magazine. And somehow, this little being managed to get around all the obstacles the gun turrets, the walls, the moats, the sentries that were wrapped around my heart." The True Detective alum added, "My heart at the time needed her. I think its the best thing going, parenthood." Zoe Giodano Harrelson-Louie, 27 Michael Kovac/Getty Woody Harrelson and daughter Zoe Harrelson attend "Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2" on November 16, 2015 in Los Angeles, California. Harrelsons second daughter, Zoe, was born on Sept. 22, 1996. She also doesnt share her life on any public social media accounts. Zoe and her sister Deni were homeschooled for part of their lives. In an interview with InStyle, Harrelson said he hoped they would learn a lot from hanging with him and going places," especially because he was "away from home too much and not getting enough time" with them. The Zombieland star elaborated to The New York Times that his kids would go wherever he went, but the arrangement eventually ended. "Then they got into a really good school, and that was the end of traveling everywhere with Daddy," he said. "It was kind of unfair to them and me. But on the other hand, I could have been working less." As a high school senior in 2015, Zoe gave a TED Talk about the negative impact of cell phones and the importance of taking a break from them. According to the YouTube videos description, she has taken after her father artistically. It states that she is highly passionate and active in the arts, specifically in theater, drawing, singing and creative writing. That same year, Zoe starred in U2s Song For Someone music video alongside her dad. In the clip, Harrelson plays a man preparing to be released from jail and his daughter, portrayed by Zoe, picks him up. Makani Ravello Harrelson, 17 Kevin Winter/Getty Woody Harrelson and Makani Harrelson during the 90th annual Academy Awards on March 4, 2018 in Hollywood, California. Harrelson and Louie welcomed their youngest child, Makani, on June 3, 2006. A few days later, the couple announced the birth of their daughter via a joint statement. In this crazy patriarchal world we live in, we are doing our part to balance the energy," it read, according to Today. "We are proud to announce the completion of our goddess trilogy with the birth of our third daughter, Makani Ravello. As she's grown, Makani has connected with the kids of her dads famous friends. In 2013, Harrelson appeared alongside Owen Wilson on The Ellen DeGeneres Show and they briefly talked about their children. During their conversation, Harrelson shared that Makani and Wilsons son Ford were quite good friends. Makani took Ford to show-and-tell at her school, Wilson said as a cute picture of Makani holding Ford in her classroom was shown to the live audience. Makani is another daughter interested in the arts and may even follow in her dads acting footsteps. In 2016, she appeared with Harrelson in the thriller film LBJ. The following year, she played a character named Deni in the movie Lost in London, which also starred her father. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. A South Carolina bill would offer women who would have sought abortion care, if not for the state's ban, compensation for continuing their pregnancies to term. The proposal is currently being considered by a South Carolina Senate subcommittee. The bill, called the South Carolina Pro Birth Accountability Act, will require the state to provide women who would have obtained abortion care if not for the ban with "reasonable living, legal, medical, psychological, and psychiatric expenses that are directly related to prenatal, intrapartal, and postpartal period," according to the bill. "It provides just compensation to women and girls who are eligible under South Carolina law. Now that we have the six-week abortion ban, I thought it only fitting and appropriate for the state to help cover the escalating costs of prenatal and postnatal care, from conception to college," South Carolina state Sen. Mia McLeod, the sponsor of the bill, said in a video statement at Wednesday's subcommittee hearing that was posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. MORE: Fighting for their lives: Women and the impact of abortion restrictions in post-Roe America "I'm a mom and both of my pregnancies were high risk," McLeod, who left the Democratic Party in January 2023 to become an independent, continued. "I did have complications but I have also lost friends and South Carolina has one of the highest maternal mortality rates, also one of the highest infant mortality rates and a lot of our women and girls in this state will be thrown into vicious cycles of poverty by the six-week abortion ban." "And I just wanna make sure that for those of us who call ourselves 'pro-life' that we are doing something to help the living. and my bill does that. It also gives my colleagues who refer to themselves as 'pro-life' an opportunity to prove it," McLeod said. PHOTO: In this Sept. 6, 2022, file photo, members of the South Carolina State Senate Medical Affairs Committee take a vote on a new abortion bill removing the exceptions for pregnancies caused by rape or incest, in Columbia, South Carolina. (Sam Wolfe/Reuters, FILE) South Carolina has a "heartbeat ban" in effect, prohibiting all abortions after fetal cardiac activity can be detected, which generally occurs at around six weeks of pregnancy. The state was a key point of abortion access to women across the South who live in states with strict bans, before South Carolina restricted the procedure. The bill was first introduced in 2020, then introduced again in January 2023. The current version of the bill was introduced again in November 2023 and was sent to the subcommittee last month. How would the compensation work? To obtain the compensation, a woman would need to file an affidavit with South Carolina's Department of Social Services indicating that she would have chosen to terminate her pregnancy if not for the state's ban on the procedure. The affidavit can be filed any time after a medical professional determines the existence of fetal cardiac activity, preventing the woman from terminating the pregnancy and before the child is born. "Upon receipt of an affidavit filed by a woman pursuant to this subsection, the department shall assign a case manager to the woman in order to develop a case plan to ensure that the woman is receiving adequate prenatal care, and to determine any available state funded programs and services for which the woman and unborn child are eligible. The case manager must meet with the pregnant woman monthly in person to ensure that the pregnancy is continuing and that the requisite programs, services, and funding are accessible," according to the bill. The Democratic bill also offers pregnant women automatic eligibility to participate in the state's Nurse-Family Partnership program, allowing them to pair with a specialty-trained nurse who would provide home visits from early pregnancy to the child's second birthday, according to the bill. Pregnant women could also get public assistance, including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, until the fetus reaches the age of 18, according to the bill. MORE: Delayed and denied: Women pushed to death's door for abortion care in post-Roe America In the event that the pregnant woman, fetus or both die during the pregnancy or during labor and delivery, the bill would require the state to cover all funeral and burial expenses, the bill states. In the event that the woman becomes disabled due to carrying the fetus to term, the state would also cover any medical expenses, including the cost of surgery, treatment, physical or occupational therapy for as long as she is disabled, according to the bill. For fetuses born with a congenital abnormality or disabilities, the state would also cover the medical expenses associated, including "costs of hospitalization, therapeutic and ADA-compliant equipment and accommodations, and long term care and treatment for the life of the child," according to the bill. The state would also cover "costs associated with health, dental, and vision insurance for the child until the age of eighteen, including payment of any premiums, copays, deductibles, and other expenses," according to the bill. PHOTO: In this May 16, 2023, file photo, demonstrators and lawmakers gather with signs and placards in the lobby of the South Carolina Statehouse in Columbia, South Carolina. (Sopa Images via LightRocket via Getty Images, FILE) "In the case of an unmarried woman, if the biological father of the child is unknown or unable to provide support," the state would provide child support, according to the bill. In cases of rape or incest, the state would also provide child support, the bill says. Under the bill, the child would also receive a "fully funded" state college savings plan. The bill would also allow pregnant mothers to claim the fetus as a child to receive child-related federal or state income tax credits or deductions, such as the child tax credit, as soon as a fetal heartbeat can be detected, according to the bill. Money to pay for the bill would come from a fund established by the state's General Assembly, according to the bill. MORE: In post-Roe America, women detail agony of being forced to carry nonviable pregnancies to term In the event that the pregnant woman dies as a result of the pregnancy or during child birth, her estate can pursue a civil lawsuit against the state for damages, the bill says. Biological fathers would also be required to provide child support starting at the date when the fetal heartbeat was detected, it says. 'Put their money where their mouth is' Scott Waller, the chair of the political science department at Biola University, in La Mirada, California, told ABC News that the bill is a response to anti-abortion policies. "This SC bill is motivated from a supposed inconsistency (hypocrisy) on the part of pro-lifers," Waller, whose specialty includes the intersection of religion and politics, told ABC News by email. "That is, pro-lifers are purportedly only animated about the value of the unborn fetus while at the same time de-valuing the lives of women by forcing them to carry unwanted pregnancies to term. So, this bill is generated out of an antipathy toward this supposed hypocrisy by forcing pro-lifers to put their money where their mouth is by mandating that the state care for these women and their babies during the pregnancy and even after birth." But, he argued, the bill places too much responsibility on the state, even if it prohibits abortions. "It simply does not follow that just because the state of South Carolina recognizes the inherent dignity and value of the human fetus that the state is therefore to be held financially responsible for a person it thinks has value," he said. "No doubt South Carolina rightly views all kinds of human beings to have inherent value within its auspices, but such valuing does not entail that the state is therefore responsible for the financial well-being of those people." PHOTO: In this Jan. 29, 2023, file photo, the South Carolina State House is shown in Columbia, South Carolina. (Win McNamee/Getty Images, FILE) South Carolina's Citizens for Life, an anti-abortion group, told ABC News it opposes the legislation in its current form, saying it misstates facts and does not acknowledge support the state already provides pregnant women. The bill is still with the state Senate's Medical Affairs Subcommittee. Holly Gatling, executive director of Citizens for Life, said the group's support of the bill would depend on how the bill is revised. MORE: Meet 18 women who shared heartbreaking pregnancy journeys in post-Roe world "South Carolina Citizens for Life is opposed to S874, the Pro-Birth Accountability Act, because this act is an attempt by those hostiles to the Fetal Heartbeat Act to disrupt life-protecting policies in our state," the group said in a letter to the subcommittee that was shared with ABC News. Gatling also said it is false that anti-abortion groups do not care about babies after they are born and said the group has "always supported child-centered and women-centered programs," saying the state already provides women with billions of dollars worth of support. "The 'Pro-Birth Act' is a cynical publicity stunt intended to characterize as anti-woman those of us who work to protect the innocent lives of unborn children and their mothers. S874 misstates the purpose and effect of the Fetal Heartbeat Act which provides clear protection for women whose bodily health is endangered by a pregnancy. Further S874 insinuates there are few if any public and private programs that support families and children with health care, food, financial assistance, or resources for children with special needs," the letter said. MORE: 'Our hearts hurt': Men impacted by abortion restrictions share their stories The Women's Rights Empowerment Network, a nonprofit that advocates for women in the state, told ABC News in a statement that financial hardships are one reason why people seek abortions. "Pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting are incredibly costly," the Women's Rights Empowerment Network said in a statement. "Financial hardships are among the main reasons that people seek abortions. Abortion bans do nothing to address the economic conditions that compel people to seek abortion. Instead, they vastly increase economic adversity -- forcing the cost of living to go up and earning potential to go down for the households that can least afford it." "It is time for South Carolina to prioritize comprehensive reproductive healthcare and to acknowledge the economic and social realities of pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting. By doing so, we can ensure everyone has the agency to make decisions about their bodies and futures, promoting overall health and prosperity for all," the group added. Live Action, an anti-abortion group, told ABC News they have not taken a position on the bill and declined to comment or be interviewed. The Center for Reproductive Rights also declined to be interviewed for this story. South Carolina bill would offer compensation to women denied abortions originally appeared on abcnews.go.com The legal headline -- that President Joe Biden will not face prosecution in connection with his handling of classified documents, in stark contrast with the former president he is set to run against again -- is not what carries the political punch. Instead, the special counsel's extended rationale for why Biden would likely not be convicted is what immediately stirred up fresh questions about the president's ability to continue to do the job. The MORE: Special counsel won't charge Biden in classified docs probe, despite evidence he 'willfully retained' materials " target="_blank">report from special counsel Robert Hur found that "no criminal charges are warranted in this matter," despite evidence that Biden retained classified documents related to Afghanistan policy from his time as vice president, and even shared them with a ghostwriter to aid in his memoirs. PHOTO: President Joe Biden departs the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 8, 2024. (Kyle Mazza/NurPhoto via Shutterstock) MORE: Special counsel won't charge Biden in classified docs probe, despite evidence he 'willfully retained' materials Things get worse from there in Hur's accounting, drawing specifically on the recorded interactions the president had, voluntarily, with the special counsel's office. In the interviews last October, the president had "limited precision and recall," according to Hur, who ultimately found that a jury would likely find Biden to be "a sympathetic, well-meaning elderly man with a poor memory." "Based on our direct interactions with and observations of him, he is someone for whom many jurors will want to identify reasonable doubt," Hur writes. "It would be difficult to convince a jury that they should convict him -- by then a former president well into his eighties -- of a serious felony that requires a mental state of willfulness." PHOTO: In this Nov. 21, 2019, file photo, U.S. Attorney Robert Hur arrives at U.S. District Court in Baltimore. (Steve Ruark/AP, FILE) Specifically, Hur writes that Biden, now 81, did not remember when his time as vice president either began or ended; did not recall the date of his son's death "even within several years"; and had a "hazy" memory about key players in the Obama administration's Afghanistan debate that was "once so important to him" the subject on which Biden was found to have retained documents, to aid in a historical retelling of his role. PHOTO: Garage box and storage closet of President Joe Biden's garage taken on Dec. 21, 2022, in a photo released by the Department of Justice. (Department of Justice) Details ostensibly meant in part to explain a lack of criminal liability border on mockery. The special counsel's report -- which includes ample photographs -- states flatly that a cache of Afghanistan documents Biden kept at his Delaware home were stored "in a badly damaged box in the garage, near a collapsed dog crate, a dog bed, a Zappos box, an empty bucket, a broken lamp wrapped with duct tape, potting soil, and synthetic firewood." The president's legal team fired back with a sharp retort, slamming Hur for using "highly prejudicial language" to describe an understandably fuzzy recall of events that occurred years ago. Details peppered throughout the report, they wrote to Hur, were "superfluous" and do not account for the fact that Biden was quite busy when he sat with Hur's team, in the days just after the Oct. 7 Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel. "In fact, there is ample evidence from your interview that the President did well in answering your questions about years-old events over the course office hours," they wrote. "We do not believe that the report's treatment of President Biden's memory is accurate or appropriate." PHOTO: President Joe Biden speaks during the annual House Democrats 2024 Issues Conference, on Feb. 8, 2024, in Leesburg, Virginia. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images) MORE: Biden speaks on classified documents report: 'Matter is now closed' Biden himself late Thursday said he was glad that the special counsel's "matter is now closed" without any charges being filed. "I was especially pleased to see the special counsel made clear the stark differences between this case and Donald Trump," the president told a gathering of House Democrats. But former President Donald Trump's allies jumped on Hur's decision not to prosecute as evidence, in their telling, of a double standard when it comes to criminal prosecution. They ignored the detailed explanation Hur's team included as to why Trump's case -- which involves accusations of refusing to turn over classified documents, and allegations of obstructing efforts to get them in the possession of the National Archives -- is demonstrably different, and thus the subject of pending criminal charges. In the Biden case, the White House emphasized from the beginning it would cooperate with investigators and Biden immediately agreed to turn over documents when they were found. But Hur's depictions of Biden carries a different political sting than even criminal charges might. The super PAC supporting Trump summed it up in a statement: "If you're too senile to stand trial, then you're too senile to be president." More recent and more public examples have put the subject in the spotlight. This week, the president appeared to forget the name of Hamas, the terrorist group that launched the attack against Israel, in a meandering answer to a reporter's question that made little sense. MORE: Key events in the Biden classified documents probe: Updated timeline Twice in recent days he has recounted what he said were recent conversations -- with long-deceased European leaders. The White House's decision to forego a Super Bowl Sunday interview once an easy presidential tradition that held the promise of reaching an enormous audience -- has raised questions about whether aides are protecting him from himself. Polls have long shown considerable voter concern around Biden's mental abilities. An ABC News/Washington Post poll in September found three-quarter of Americans think Biden is too old to serve another term as president, while half say the same about Trump, who is less than four years younger. Minnesota Rep. Dean Phillips arguably the most credible Democrat to run against Biden in the presidential primaries this year this week wrote on X that he's being "attacked for being honest and saying the quiet part out loud," circulating clips of the president stumbling in recent public remarks. "I admire our President," Phillips wrote. "But shame on all of you pretending everything is ok. You are leading us and him into a disaster, and you damn well know it." The public discussion of Biden's mental acuity comes at a tenuous time in the political calendar. The nominating process is well underway, with ballot-access deadlines rapidly passing and with Biden romping. He got 96% of the vote in South Carolina and 89% in Nevada, against Phillips and other lower-profile opponents, and even won a write-in contest in New Hampshire, where no convention delegates were at stake. MORE: Biden turns 81 as questions about age continue to dominate 2024 race Trump, meanwhile, is cruising to the Republican nomination in his own right, despite concerns about the legal issues that could derail his campaign in multiple directions. Former Gov. Nikki Haley the last Republican standing against Trump is questioning the age and abilities of both Trump and Biden in an effort to get herself back into contention. "We all know 80-year-olds who can run circles around us," Haley wrote on X on Tuesday, "and then we know Trump and Biden." The legal morass facing Trump is not equivalent to the questions about age facing Biden. But as a matter of politics, both matter, particularly in a divided country that seems unenthusiastic about a rematch between two candidates who topped their respective tickets in 2020. Functionally, Biden will be the Democratic nominee unless he were to decide to step aside -- something he has shown no inclination to do. But his longstanding rejoinder to those questioning his abilities -- "watch me" -- has been turned on its head. Part of Biden's problem now is that he is being watched, with more observers and voters apparently not compelled by what they see. Special counsel blows open debate over Biden age and memory: ANALYSIS originally appeared on abcnews.go.com New York Fashion Week officially kicks off on Feb. 9, but any industry insider will tell you that the outfit planning for the season happens way in advance. Let's face it: As exciting as the new collections are, so much of the buzz of fashion month comes not from the runways, but from what the show-goers are wearing. Like clockwork, Copenhagen Fashion Week set the tone for the season, introducing a slew of new street-style trends we're sure to see take flight in New York, London, Milan and Paris. Then, there are the stand-out pieces from recent seasons and viral trends, such as colorful tights and big faux-fur coats. If you're finalizing your outfits as NYFW begins, look no further: We've compiled the buzziest fashion pieces sure to be spotted in the concrete jungle this season. Neckties Photo: Launchmetrics Spotlight Put away your ribbons and bows: Menswear is coming for coquette's crown in 2024. If Copenhagen Fashion Week showed us anything, it's that neckties, specifically, are set to take over as the accessory of choice this fashion month. Tory Burch Pierced Flats Photo: Launchmetrics Spotlight In case you haven't heard, we're in the midst of a Tory Burch-aissance and this season, the fashion flock will likely swoop in on the brand's beloved pierced shoes, which first debuted on the Spring 2023 runway. It's a stylish-yet-comfortable footwear choice (the two key elements that make for an ideal NYFW street-style item). Colorful Tights Photo: Launchmetrics Spotlight Let the record show that Betty Suarez was ahead of the times. Colorful tights red, especially are all the rage this season, as co-signed by celebrities like Kylie Jenner, Dua Lipa and Selena Gomez, plus fashion brands like Versace, Miu Miu and Acne Studios. Loewe Anagram Knits Photo: Edward Berthelot/Getty Images Is it even February fashion month if you're not wearing knitwear? Loewe is dominating shopping carts with its Anagram sweater. The unique textured applique, the exaggerated long sleeves, the cozy mohair blend what's not to love? The Row Margaux Bag Photo: Gotham/Getty Images There's a reason why The Row continues to have a hold over the industry and longtime Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen enthusiasts: The brand knows its way around a buzzy accessory. The Margaux bag is the latest example of this, quickly becoming the "new Birkin", with stamps of approval from Kendall Jenner, Jennifer Lawrence and Zoe Kravitz. Big Faux Fur Coats Photo: Launchmetrics Spotlight Call it the mob wife aesthetic or Cruella de Vil cosplay, fashion insiders are clamoring to wear big faux-fur coats this winter. They're easy statement pieces that make any outfit inherently Insta-worthy plus, they're a practical choice for keeping you warm during the February chill. New Gucci Photo: Launchmetrics Spotlight Anything from Sabato de Sarno's Gucci which has been spotted on the likes of Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus and Halle Bailey is sure to generate buzz, as the inaugural collection is just hitting stores. Be it the platform loafers, cherry-red leather jackets or reimagined Jackie bags, get ready to see a lot of new Gucci throughout fashion month. Want the latest fashion industry news first? Sign up for our daily newsletter. BASF is facing blowback from a broad coalition of politicians after a German media investigation tied one of its joint venture partners with what human rights experts describe as Chinas genocidal repression of Uyghurs and other Turkic Muslim minorities in Chinas Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. An investigation by Der Spiegel and ZDF, published last Friday, found that employees of Xinjiang Markor Chemical Industry Co., a subsidiary of the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act-blacklisted Xinjiang Zhongtai Group, accompanied state and public officials on home visits to Uyghur households as late as 2019. Part of an initiative known as fanghuiju, the purpose of such visits, according to Human Rights Watch, is to surveil and politically indoctrinate potential dissidents, keeping them in line with Chinas Han majority. More from Sourcing Journal BASF and Xinjiang Markor Chemical Industry Co. operate two shared ventures in the Korla Economic Technology Development Zone: BASF Markor Chemical Manufacturing, which produces polytetrahydrofuran, and Markor Meiou Chemical, which generates 1,4-butanediol. Both chemicals are used in the creation of stretch textiles commonly employed in sportswear. BASF, the German chemical giant said, does not own a stake in Xinjiang Markor Chemical Industry Co. itself. It was on Markors website that Der Spiegel and ZDF found posts referring to fanghuiju teams from its facility mingling with villagers. We currently have no reason to believe that employees from our joint ventures were involved in the measures described, a spokesperson said of its own factories, which employ 120 people in all, none of whom are Uyghurs. Irrespective of this, we take the current reports very seriously, will continue to investigate them and will take them into account in our assessment of business relationships. But a letter from the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC) on Monday spoke of the shocking degree to which BASF appears to be implicated in gross abuses of Uyghurs in the region. Writing to BASF CEO Martin Brudermuller, the co-chairs and members of the international cross-party group urged the chemical giant to withdraw from Xinjiang, saying that its credibility and integrity are at stake. It is our hope that BASF will take this matter seriously and prioritize the well-being of those in Xinjiang who are suffering grievously under oppressive and discriminative policies, the letter said. We are confident that by addressing these concerns head-on, BASF can reaffirm its commitment to ethical business practices. The BASF spokesperson said that the company has received the letter, which it takes very seriously and will approach the signatories promptly and make them an offer of dialogue. Its also monitoring the situation of minorities in Xinjiang, as well as the political discussions surrounding it. So far, no audits of the joint ventures have found any evidence of forced labor or other human rights violations. As we consider human rights due diligence an ongoing task, we will continue to analyze the situation and take appropriate actions, including risk-based controls such as audits and assessments, the representative said. We are also in continuous contact with representatives of non-governmental organizations to gather further information for our review. But Adrian Zenz, the German anthropologist whose seminal work brought the Uyghur repression into the spotlight, said that the new evidence connects a BASF partner in the atrocities during the height of the mass internment campaign and therefore cannot be ignored. It was Zenz who directed Der Spiegel and ZDF to the Markor posts. This makes BASFs continued presence in Xinjiang untenable, especially in light of the companys historical connections to the Holocaust, Zenz told Sourcing Journal. BASF predecessor IG Farben produced the infamous Zyklon B, the lethal gas that Nazis used to mass murder Jews in Auschwitz and other death camps during World War II. IPAC German co-chair Michael Brand, a Member of the German Bundestag, agreed. The fact that a company which was historically burdened during the Nazi era is now again indirectly involved in a system that takes thousands of innocent people from their homes and puts them in mass camps, with forced internment and with forced labor is a truly appalling story for BASF and also for Germany, he said. His U.K. counterpart, Member of Parliament Sarah Champion, said that companies cannot pretend to be surprised that atrocities against Uyghurs are being committed in the region because they have had years to withdraw from Xinjiang. Across the pond, the Congressional-Executive Commission on China, which has been hawkish on the enforcement of the UFLPA, expressed its support on X, formerly known as Twitter. Chairs support @IPAC initiative urging @BASF to leave the #XUAR because of reported complicity in serious rights abuses, it wrote on Thursday. Shareholders and the press must challenge the use of internal audits as a defense by XUAR-based companies, as they are used to cover-up instead of expose. From hidden 18th-century bookshops and hip boutiques showcasing the best of Dutch fashion, to cheese emporiums and toy-meets-liquorice shops, retail therapy in the Dutch capital is a quirky, rewarding experience. Below our expert gives the low-down on the best retail therapy in Amsterdam, while here you'll find our guides to the city's best hotels, restaurants, bars and cafes, attractions, things to do for free, and how to spend a weekend in Amsterdam. Plus, read our guide to the best Amsterdam airport hotels. Canal Belt - West The Frozen Fountain The minimalist interiors that were all the rage a few years back in the Netherlands still have loyal fans, but now theres a quirkier, more colourful and playful touch to edgy Dutch design. The Frozen Fountain (Prinsengracht 645) brings together hot new local talent and established figures to make exciting chemistry with the occasional art installation or photographic exhibition. There are plenty of smaller, portable objects on sale though you might just be tempted into shipping something big. Seek out salvaged-wood tables and cabinets by Piet Hein Eek or wonderfully abstract carpets by Claudy Jongstra. Contact: frozenfountain.nl Prices: The Frozen Fountain is the place to discover emerging designers and artists De Kaaskamer Large wheels of cheese are piled to the ceiling, wedges line the shelves, and a milky aroma fills the air. If youve only ever had the rubbery Dutch cheese exported to supermarkets, youre in for a very different experience. The older cheeses, such as belegen (matured for 16-18 weeks) or oude kaas (10-12 months), are firm, even crunchy, with a caramel tang. Try the truffle cheese (which tops all for me), or family favourites nagelkaas (pitted with cloves), and komijnekaas (spiced with cumin). Assistants will slice off slivers for you to taste, and theyll shrink-wrap cheese for you to take home. Contact: kaaskamer.nl Prices: Cheese lovers should make a beeline for De Kaaskamer Mint Mini Mall The ideal 'something for someone who has everything' spot. Mint is a mall in concept, though not in appearance a single shop, long and light with merchandise grouped in different 'departments'. Seek out the cabinet of wooden phone covers, some extremely stylish baby clothes, a cluster of chunky ceramics, and greetings cards impregnated with seeds that grow wildflowers when the card is buried. Originality is the guiding theme, with a nod to natural and sustainable materials. Mint is the place to come if youre buying gifts for both genders and a range of ages, and are in need of inspiration. Contact: mintminimall.nl Prices: Pontifex Speciality stores like Pontifex once abounded in the Negen Straatjes quarter, but as the little streets crisscrossing the main canals have become more hip, rents have risen, and shops like this have been squeezed out by boutiques and cafes. Pontifex sells candles. Only candles (well, with a few candlesticks, and some incense). There are candles coloured and plain, patterned and scented, embossed with religious images, and formed into skulls, Buddhas and human torsos. The shop also has an intriguing sideline. The owner is a doll and teddy doctor of note, and he repairs damaged items in his workshop out the back. Contact: pontifex-kaarsen.com Prices: Rinascimento A tunnel of a shop, stacked floor to ceiling with Delftware both antique and fresh from the kiln. There are plates and urns, tiles and even ornamental clogs, with not only the traditional blue-and-white porcelain from Delft itself, but multi-coloured Makkum china, too. The company packages well, and ships worldwide. For a quintessentially Dutch buy, choose a tulip vase, with individual funnels for single blooms a design dating from the 17th-century tulip mania, when the price of a single bulb could set you back as much as a horse and carriage. Contact: delft-art-gallery.com Prices: Find a range of delftware both antique and fresh from the kiln - This content is subject to copyright./De Agostini / L. Romano Sukha Amsterdam Dutch-designed fashion, footwear, jewellery and accessories produced with an eco-friendly mindset, Sukha is among the new line-up of designer boutiques and high-end delis on Haarlemmerstraat and Haarlemerdijk. With such a pleasing mix, it is my favourite shopping drag in town. At Sukha, youll find everything from hefty wooden-bead necklaces and hand-stitched desert boots, to sturdy shopping bags and soft cotton shirts. Keep an eye out for the chunky, hand-knitted woollen scarves, designed by the owner, Irene Mertens, and made by craftswomen in Nepal. Contact: sukha.nl Prices: Sukha specialises in Dutch-designed items - Copyright:Jeltje Fotografie/Photographer:Jeltje Skins The fragrance world's equivalent of a boutique winery. Ranged on the shelves are scents and bodycare products from exclusive makers, many of them available at only a handful of outlets worldwide. Some come from small, specialist concerns like Biehl Parfumkunstwerke; others from centuries-old masters of the art, such as L. T. Piver, whose aromas wafted through the court of Louis XVI. There are insider names such as the late local makeup genius Ellis Faas, or Hollywood hair expert Philip B. If you have half-an-hour to spare, go for a digital perfume diagnosis, which hones choices down to one or two. Contact: skins.nl Prices: Skins is one of the best-smelling boutiques in the city - info@hannesdesign.nl 't Zonnetje This 'mom-and-pop' coffee shop has been selling teas and coffees for more than 100 years, its big brass dispensers, old-fashioned scales, and time-aged tea caddies still functional and intact. The quarter of town, the Haarlemmerbuurt, is how I remember the Negen Straatjes (the alleys that crisscross the canals) being a decade or so ago, before they became hip and the rents went up. Here youll still find neighbourhood shops and quirky stores, alongside high-end delis and boutiques. t Zonnetje stocks more than 25 sorts of tea and over fresh-roast coffees. Try their enticingly mild home blend. Contact: koffietheeenkruiden.nl Prices: Hester Van Eeghen Discover geometric, daringly coloured bags, briefcases and shoes in the store that perpetuates the style of local design deity, the late Hester van Eeghen. Local fashionistas adore Van Eeghen handbags, not only for their stylishness, but for their capacity, strong craftsmanship and practical design. Shape, colour, and surprise are guiding principles in the design, and the products are handcrafted in Milan. The designers travel the world on the lookout for new ideas. Keep an eye open for the one-off special lines that are a by-product of these journeys Cambodian hand-woven silk scarves, perhaps. Contact: hestervaneeghen.com Prices: Hester Van Eeghen is adored by local fashionistas Canal Belt - East The Mouse Mansion A mouse lived in a windmill in old Amsterdam, goes the song. Take home some Dutch kiddie-culture in the form of toys, books, and crafts focused on two mice who are hugely popular among the mouse-sized in Holland. Sam and Julia, their mansion and adventures, have become a local phenomenon. The Mouse Mansion is a fairytale-like clutter of fantastical mouse houses, mini DIY furniture to fill them, cuddly stuffed Sams and Julias, as well as the books (also a few in English) that began it all. It makes a welcome diversion for offspring among the art galleries of the Jordaan. Contact: themousemansion.com Prices: Amsterdam Vintage Watches Fancy a 1950s Rolex, or a gleaming gold fob watch? This is the place for that eye-catching vintage timepiece from precision military watches, to complex, multi-faced chronographs. But the reason many people come to the shop is for its parallel line in antique jewellery delicate diamond earrings, an Art Deco brooch, a pearl necklace, cameo rings all selected by a very fine eye. There are collectors items, but also pieces that are simply beautiful to wear. If your taste is for something more contemporary, dont be put off by the shops name new Dutch designers get a look in, too. Viewing is by appointment only. Contact: amsterdamvintagewatches.com Prices: Amsterdam Vintage Watches displays an assortment of stylish and vintage timepieces Spiegelkwartier The Spiegelkwartier arts and antiques district has been going for a good 100 years, brimming with booty of such quality that it can bill itself as a 'supplier to the Rijksmuseum'. The shops are handily located one beside the other on the street that leads up to the museum. You can pick up anything from a Picasso print to period jewellery. Although designer boutiques, gift shops, and eateries are gradually overtaking the quarter, you can still find an antique souvenir without busting the bank. An antique Delft tile (from Kramer, or M.C. Gasseling) makes an interesting gift, and is easily transportable home. Contact: spiegelkwartier.nl Prices: - Van Roselen Fine Chocolates The shop front is so smart you might be tempted to miss it. Inside however, the musty, sweet, comforting aromas of chocolate tell the true story. Van Roselen sells its own handmade, heart-meltingly good chocolates and truffles ranging from classic pralines to curious combinations of fruits and spices. It also stocks prime chocolate from Mexico, Peru, Ecuador and more. A box of their fingertip-sized chocs is an ideal dinner party gift just the right size for two (alright, three) with coffee after a meal. Contact: vanroselen.nl Prices: Van Roselen Fine Chocolates offers a tempting selection of edible treats Nature Bar Just across from Central Station, on one of the most hectic streets in town yet housed in a tranquil space that once served as a marijuana coffeeshop, is a detached world of purity and fine fragrance. In her soap studio, Marlies van Heusden creates soaps, shampoos and lotions from natural ingredients: shea butter, olive oil or calendula, perhaps, often blended with products salvaged as part of a circular economy, such as coffee grounds from a local coffee roastery. Contact: naturebar.co Prices: The Mouse Mansion A mouse lived in a windmill in old Amsterdam, goes the song. Take home some Dutch kiddie-culture in the form of toys, books, and crafts focused on two mice who are hugely popular among the mouse-sized in Holland. Sam and Julia, their mansion and adventures, have become a local phenomenon. The Mouse Mansion is a fairytale-like clutter of fantastical mouse houses, mini DIY furniture to fill them, cuddly stuffed Sams and Julias, as well as the books (also a few in English) that began it all. It makes a welcome diversion for offspring among the art galleries of the Jordaan. Contact: themousemansion.com Prices: Oudemanhuispoort Book Market Slip through an arched, 18th-century portal in a wall beside the Kloveniersburgwal canal for a second-hand book-buying experience from another era. Men unlock wooden shutters along the bare brick wall of a dim passageway. The shutters flap down as foldable tables, on which are spread collectible books, nondescript dusty tomes, old prints and engravings, and piles of sheet music. Students pass in surges as classes end; the arcade was built as the entrance to an almshouse which now forms part of the University of Amsterdam. Opening times: Mon-Sat, 9am-5pm Prices: Oudemanhuispoort Book Market is the place to go to find your next read - Cris Toala Olivares Waterlooplein Flea Market Once the heart of the Jewish Quarter, this has been the site of market trading for centuries, and today sells everything from mildewy old overcoats and vintage designer classics, to Peruvian jumpers and odd bits of bicycles. Though becoming increasingly commercialised, the flea market is still a fun place to seek out clothing bargains, gifts with a difference, and handmade knick-knacks from around the world. Haggling is not generally the order of the day, but a subtle and thats your best price? may get you places. Contact: waterlooplein.amsterdam Prices: X Bank You'll find everything from old-school products (tinned butter, where the label hasnt changed since colonial times) to cutting-edge clothing. Haute couture and off-the-peg line the rails; watches, jewellery, knick-knacks, beauty products, crockery, sculptures and prints stretch through a vast area of varied spaces. There are wacky shoes by Jan Jansen, gilded objets from Marcel Wanders, and vibrantly coloured, beautifully tailored dresses from Matthijs van Bergen. X Bank works as a showcase and forum for local artists and designers in all fields, so theres often something going on: a show, installation, performance or talk. Contact: xbank.amsterdam Prices: X Bank displays everything from old-school products to cutting-edge clothing - Captus Imago/CATPatrick Bos Kessen Museum District and De Pijp Albert Cuyp Market The busy general market in De Pijp runs for nearly a mile. Between the piles of silk, gaudy modern clothes and cheap shoes, youll find boxes of dried herbs and teas, people slipping raw herring down their throats (in the time-honoured Dutch way), nibbling on homemade chocolates, tasting farm cheeses, and stocking up on fish, fruit and vegetables for even greater feasting at home. Behind the stalls theres yet another layer of life fabric shops, ethnic stores and cheap Asian and Surinamese eateries. Amsterdammers buy their tulip bulbs from De Plantenmarkt stall, half way along. Contact: albertcuyp-markt.amsterdam Prices: Oosterdok and Amsterdam East Pure Market Food, crafts, artisanal deli goods, beauty products from sustainable sources, a solar-powered carousel all can be found in the Pure Market. Every fortnight this travelling market comes to town, and its my favourite spot to impress house guests. You can sit down to eat with everybody bringing their pick from one of the stalls organic sausages, perhaps, or vegetarian Surinamese roti. There are two main Amsterdam locations: Frankendael Park and Amstel Park. The latter is the one to go for: a vast, beautifully laid-out park on the southern edge of town, with a small lake at the centre. Contact: puremarkt.nl Prices: Pure Market is filled with stands offering food, crafts and artisanal deli goods - Jesje Veling Photography De Leeuw Zuurwaren De Leeuw is a treasure the last remaining Jewish deli in the quarter where the Frank family lived (south of the centre, not where they hid out above Otto Franks office on the Prinsengracht). Pickles are the speciality: crunchy sweet cucumbers and tangy gherkins, punch little yellow onions, and tangles of chillied onion rings, in barrels (as they have been since 1850) and lined up in glass jars alongside mustards, piccalilli, horseradish, and more, all homemade by Bianca and her cheery colleagues. Silvery herring and anchovies gleam in their brine. Try a bolus, a doggie-doo-shaped (hence the name) traditional Amsterdam Yiddish pastry, sometimes with ginger. Contact: deleeuwzuur.nl (Open Thursday, Friday, Sunday 9am-5pm) Prices: The Jordaan and Amsterdam West Appels & Peren The south and east of the Netherlands are famed for apples and pears, and at Appels & Peren you can find some prime local ciders and perries, as well as about 150 others from France, Luxembourg, Spain, and elsewhere in Europe. The owners visit orchards and cider-makers themselves to pick out the best artisanal creations. They buy directly from the farmers, and are knowledgeable and helpful in finding a drink that meets your taste. Try the fruity Stevez perries, made by the Diks family, who have been growing Dutch pears for three generations, or earthy Uwe ciders from Betuwe, in the east. Contact: appelsenperen.amsterdam Prices: De Looier Antiques Market Nondescript doors lead off the street to a warren of walkways lined with stalls selling antiques and curios. The Antiekcentrum Amsterdam (to give it its official name) offers nearly everything from bric-a-brac to cherishable collector rarities. Cheaper stuff books, DVDs, old china and jewellery is laid out on tables; deeper into the market come kiosks and vitrines with silver, Art Deco rarities, icons, paintings and more. This is one of the few markets in Amsterdam that remains open on a Sunday, and it is an enticing place to while away an hour or two on a rainy afternoon. Contact: antiekcentrumamsterdam.nl Prices: - De Looier Antiques Market sells an intriguing spread of antiques and curios Noordermarkt The small square beside the 17th-century Noorderkerk is the scene of a busy farmers' market on Saturdays (fresh oysters shucked while you wait, farm cheeses and the like), and a flea market on Monday mornings, extending along Westerstraat as a lapjesmarkt (rag market). Here youll find textiles by the metre, as well as vintage clothes bargains, in an old-style neighbourhood market atmosphere complete with street organs. Come early for both markets the farmers' market gets really busy after 11 am, and for the best clothing bargains on Monday, arrive at 9 am, or even a little before. Contact: noordermarkt-amsterdam.nl Prices: Mechanisch Speelgoed Toddlers, squealing delightedly, scrabble about in boxes of plastic animals; dads murmur nostalgically about old toy cars; and mums assist in the blowing of soap bubbles. This quirky shop sells the sorts of toys you probably thought didnt exist anymore those little hand-held windmill sticks, clockwork clowns, kaleidoscopes, enamel beach buckets decorated with shells and rosy-cheeked babes. Theres not a battery or electronic screen in sight. Parents do have to be on the ball theres lots to break or knock over, and the shop can get crowded. Contact: mechanisch-speelgoed.nl Prices: Mechanisch Speelgoed is a quirky shop selling an assortment of toys Het Oud-Hollandsch Snoepwinkeltje Explore a sweetshop that seems out of a childrens story complete with shelves filled with glass jars full of goodies, and a cheery, tubby lady behind the counter. But 'The Old Dutch Tuck Shop' is not only for the kids. The Dutch love their drop (liquorice), and the shop stocks around 60 different sorts, from forest-fruit or honey-flavoured through to three different strengths of 'salty'- the preferred flavour for adults. Lollies, rock, and all manner of gums and mints complete the array. Try a stick of zoethout a wooden twig that tastes sweet when chewed. Contact: snoepwinkeltje.com Prices: Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Everythings bigger in Texasexcept for the states gambling industry. The Lone Star State has long had a ban on gambling, but billionaires are trying to change that law, Bloomberg reported on Thursday. Big names like Tilman Fertitta, Miriam Adelson, and Mark Cuban have all expressed a desire for casinos and the like to open in Texas, a move they say would bring jobs and economic opportunity to the state. More from Robb Report Lets do something to bring tourism and the business traveler and conventions to Texasand these need to be billion-dollar properties that do that, Fertitta, who owns the Golden Nugget casino company, told Bloomberg. We need to do it right and build the casinos, and not have a bunch of slot machines at every single little grocery store. While some, like Fertitta, have been fighting to bring gambling to Texas for years, the push has become even more pronounced in recent months. Adelson, whose family is behind the Las Vegas Sands company, bought the Dallas Mavericks last year, and she and her kin have been increasing their political donations and recruiting more lobbyists in the state, Bloomberg noted. Mark Cuban, the billionaire whom they bought the team from, has also started talking up casino-based resorts and the benefits they could bring to Texas. Look at the size, scope, and economics of resort destinations with and without a casino, Cuban told Bloomberg in an email. Even though the casino isnt a huge part of the economics, it supports scale and depth. Everyday Texans have also shown their interest in gambling: They spend some $5 billion a year placing bets and playing games in adjacent states and in Las Vegas, the political scientist Clyde Barrow said. And about 75 percent of Texans support bringing casino-style resorts to the state, according to a poll from January 2023. Plus, one consultant said that just seven proposed casino projects could add $7.7 billion and 48,000 jobs to Texas. Still, Fertitta and his ilk face pushback from Texans who have qualms with gambling, some from a moral standpoint and some who just dont want to put casinos in their home state. As far as politics go, though, people like Adelson and Fertitta might be hoping that their roots in Texasand their donationshelp sway some of the decision-makers in the statehouse. Having [the Adelsons] presence here in Dallas certainly helps the conversation, Texas State Senator Carol Alvarado told Bloomberg. Its not a slam dunk. It doesnt mean its going to automatically happen, but it definitely will help to elevate the conversation and maybe get people to think twice about it. Sign up for Robb Report's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. A disabled rescue dog from Iran has captured hearts around the world by fostering puppies. Fondly known as Sudi, this rescue dog has endured unbearable pain, but her story has showcased the power of resilience, strength, and love. The story of a disabled rescue dog from Iran Sudi, a former farm dog from Iran, has experienced a remarkable transformation after a cruel past filled with mistreatment and abuse by her former owner. She was physically maimed, resulting in her having only one functional limb. Her sad plight came to light when Sajjad Nadimii, an animal rescue operator in Iran, rescued her from the abusive conditions. Nadimii provided immediate care, but he soon realized Sudi required specialized treatment for her injuries, including a hip replacement. Two Iranian women working with Nadimii reached out to Selma Barroso, an adoption coordinator at Homeward Trails Animal Rescue in Virginia. Barroso successfully arranged for Sudi to be taken into Homeward Trails in August 2022, pledging to secure funds for her continuous care as per PEOPLE. Disabled dog fosters puppies while awaiting adoption Once in Virginia, Barroso helped Sudi find a foster home and actively participated in her extensive veterinary care and treatments. Despite enduring multiple surgeries to regain mobility, Sudi, with her loving temperament, began to assist her foster parents with caring for other rescue puppies in the household endearingly called Sudis daycare. Barroso notes that Sudi enjoys teaching the puppies respectful behavior, improving their chances of adoption. While the playful Sudi has mastered the role of a caregiver, finding her forever home hasnt been easy. Due to Sudis lingering surgeries, preferences for smaller dogs, and assertive nature, the search for the perfect home continues. She has no issue whatsoever with strangers. She is extremely docile, Barroso adds. I believe she has totally forgiven humans for what her former owner did to her. The founder of Homeward Trails, Sue Bell, aspires to use Sudis narrative to bring awareness to animal cruelty. To know more about Homeward Trails and Sudis adoption, you can visit their official website. The post Disabled Dog Rescued From Iran Now Fostering Puppies appeared first on DogTime. Tempering eggs might sound like a complex and intimidating technique for many home cooks. However, with a trusty turkey baster by your side, you can effortlessly use this method and elevate your cooking. With a little understanding and a few tips, you will quickly understand why it's the perfect tool for the job. Tempering eggs is a crucial technique used in various recipes, especially in the realm of sauces and desserts. It involves slowly raising the temperature of eggs by gradually incorporating a hot liquid, typically while whisking vigorously. This prevents the eggs from curdling or scrambling when exposed to high heat and ensures a smooth, creamy texture in your final dish. Tempering is essential in recipes like custards, hollandaise sauce, and ice cream bases. A turkey baster is a handy kitchen tool designed for roasting poultry, primarily turkeys. It consists of a plastic or glass tube with a rubber bulb at one end. Its main function is to suck up pan juices and redistribute them over the bird during roasting to keep it moist and flavorful. But here's where the turkey baster's versatility truly shines: It's the ideal instrument for tempering eggs. Read more: Hacks That Will Make Boiling Your Eggs So Much Easier This Is Why A Turkey Baster Works So Well turkey baster - Artiom Photo/Shutterstock The magic of a turkey baster lies in its accuracy and ease of use. When tempering eggs, precision is key. The narrow nozzle of the baster allows you to control the flow of the hot liquid as you add it to the eggs, ensuring a gradual and even increase in temperature. Plus, the rubber bulb provides a comfortable grip, making it much easier to handle compared to tilting a pot or maneuvering a double boiler. To temper eggs with a baster, have your eggs and the hot liquid (such as milk or cream) ready before you start. Ensure your eggs are at room temperature to prevent shocking them with the hot liquid. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs vigorously. This will help evenly distribute the hot liquid when you start tempering. Slowly squeeze the bulb of the turkey baster to release a small stream of hot liquid into the whisked eggs while continuously whisking. This gradual process is the key to successful tempering. Pay attention to the temperature of the egg mixture. The goal is to gradually raise it without cooking the eggs prematurely. Once the egg mixture is tempered, you can confidently add it to your recipe, knowing that it will integrate smoothly without any curdling or scrambling. Read the original article on Tasting Table. OPENING Dune. Director Denis Villeneuve crafted the kind of large-format adaptation that the sci-fi novel Dune deserves, both visually and emotionally, in this rerelease. PG-13. (Grand, East Park, SouthPointe). Grade: B+. Lisa Frankenstein. Writer Diablo Cody's horror comedy romance about a misunderstood teenager and her high school crush, who happens to be a handsome corpse, was not screened in time for Ground Zero deadlines. PG-13. (Grand, SouthPointe). Origin. This engaging, intellectual film explains writer Isabel Wilkinson's theory that caste, not race, is responsible for oppression worldwide through a fictionalized account of her life as she was writing the best-selling book on which the movie is based. PG-13. (Ross). Grade: A. Out of Darkness. This Stone Age thriller about a band of people being hunted by a creature in the Scottish highlands was not screened in time for Ground Zero deadlines. R. (Grand). Peppa's Cinema Party. Peppa Pig celebrates her 20th anniversary with this film that features the three-part wedding party story, 10 never-before-seen episodes and five new songs. It was not screened in advance for critics. G. (Grand, East Park. Edgewood, SouthPointe). The Teachers' Lounge. This best international feature-nominated German film is a riveting thriller triggered by thefts in a school, exploring issues of privacy, censorship, racism and the power dynamics within the school. PG-13. (Ross). Grade: A. Turning Red. Pixar's charmingly insightful 2022 film about a 13-year-old girl who turns into a giant red panda in a wise and wonderful metaphor for the roller-coaster of messy adolescence gets a theatrical release. PG. (Grand). Grade: A. ONGOING All of Us Strangers. Director Andrew Haighs captivating, touchingly emotional ghost story is carried by Andrew Scott's astonishing, achingly vulnerable performance as a gay man who has to open up to the past to find his way forward. R. (Ross). Grade: A. American Fiction. Jeffrey Wright is a professor who drunkenly writes a parody of the "Black misery porn he hates and becomes a sensation in this crowd-pleaser that's both funny and smart in its satire of race, media, artists, identity politics and Hollywood. R. (Grand). Grade: B. Anyone But You. This romantic comedy is about a pair that breaks up after a few dates but has to pretend to be a couple at a destination wedding. R. (Grand, East Park, Edgewood). Grade: C+. Argylle. Bryce Dallas Howard is a cat lady whose spy novels begin to mirror contemporary events, sending her into a clandestine world in this action comedy/drama that's an attempt to start a new spy series. PG-13. (Grand, East Park, Edgewood, SouthPointe). Grade: C. The Chosen: Season 4, Episodes 1-3. The first three episodes of the fourth season of the TV series about the life of Christ come to the big screen. Unrated. (Grand, East Park, Edgewood, SouthPointe). Grade: B. The Beekeeper. Jason Statham's brutal campaign for vengeance takes on national stakes after he is revealed to be a former operative of a powerful and clandestine organization in this dumb but entertaining action thriller. R. (Grand, East Park). Grade: C+. The Boys In The Boat. Director George Clooney's tale of a University of Washington rowing crew that defies the odds to row for the United States in the 1936 Berlin Olympics is sweet, old-fashioned and, ultimately, good. PG-13. (Edgewood). Grade: B. Mean Girls. Writer Tina Fey presents a new twist on the comedy classic "Mean Girls" that finds a high school girl who's welcomed into the top of the social food chain by the popular girls and has to fend off the "queen bee" when she starts dating her ex. PG-13. (Grand, SouthPointe). Grade: B-. Migration. A feathered family goes on a vacation like no other in this action-packed animated comedy. (Grand). Grade: B. Poor Things. Emma Stone gives a stunning performance as a woman created from scratch in this sometimes creepy, perpetually surprising black comedy. R. (Grand, Edgewood). Grade: A. Wonka. This playful and heartstring-tugging musical take on the beloved Roald Dahl character played by Timothee Chalamet is smarter than it lets on. PG-13. (Grand, Edgewood, SouthPointe). Grade: B. Highest-grossing genres at the 2023 box office #10. Musical #7. Concert/Performance #6. Thriller/Suspense #5. Drama #3. Comedy #2. Adventure #1. Action Edith Cavells dog, Jack, sits taxidermied in a glass case in the Imperial War Museum. He long outlived his owner. When the British nurse was imprisoned by the Germans in 1915, charged with hiding and helping Allied soldiers, she wrote to instruct her former hosts on properly caring for him; he would live out the final years of his life in a chateau in southern Belgium. Cavell was not so fortunate: she was executed by the Germans in October, an event that gives Rick Strouds new book, I Am Not Afraid of Looking into the Rifles, its centrepiece. Strouds history is an unorthodox perspective on the sprawling canvas of the First World War, with its focus on the women who resisted the German occupation in occupied Belgium and France. He applies much the same approach as that of his previous book on the women of the Special Operations Executive and their work in occupied France in the Second World War. Yet this books setting is substantially different: in the 1940s, the SOE and French Resistance were the British spearheads into occupied Europe, whereas in the First World War, the conflict fundamentally depended on the sway of the trench-lines across the Belgian and French plains. As hard as Stroud tries, its difficult to accept the occupying Germans as akin to their Nazi descendants. He plays to the tropes of the evil Hun that sustained the Allied war effort, but it rings hollow here. The Germans were by no means benevolent invaders, but the nuances of their mindset and strategies are dispensed with for the sake of a moralistic clash. And while I Am Not Afraid succeeds in capturing the excitement of covert missions cloaked in darkness or conducted behind enemy lines, the overall accumulation of anecdotes leads to monotony. Invariably, theres a lot of sitting around in cold prison cells, visits by prison chaplains and dignified final moments before firing squads. Rick Stroud, author of I Am Not Afraid of Looking into the Rifles Worse, the book is stultifying in its lack of ambition for a topic of such potential. It doesnt attempt to weave fresh narratives or infuse new life into the collective memory surrounding figures such as Edith Cavell and spies such as Gabrielle Petit. Cavell is the protagonist with whom interested readers will be most familiar, and the subject with the longest paper-trail in the archives, so its perplexing that, despite the Imperial War Museum hosting not only the stuffed remains of Cavells dog but also her papers, Stroud has opted against delving into that repository or seemingly engaging with any other archives. Yet last years brilliant book Women in Intelligence, by Helen Fry, revealed that Cavells work with British intelligence went much further than assisting stranded soldiers: the nurse established a network of agents that passed information onto the Admiralty. Even a century later, then, there are stories to be uncovered. Despite the expanse of its prose and the promise of its narratives, Strouds book ends up disheartening. The confidence that permeates its prose is overshadowed by a lamentable string of factual inaccuracies. David Lloyd George was not prime minister in 1914; we are told that Cavell was 42 in 1907 (accurate), but then that she was 44 in 1914 (not). I Am Not Afraid is a missed chance a failed attempt at what could have been a substantive contribution to the understanding of the Allied struggle against Imperial Germany. I Am Not Afraid of Looking into the Rifles is published by Simon & Schuster at 20. To order your copy for 18.99, call 0844 871 1514 or visit Telegraph Books Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Mama always told us thank-you notes are nonnegotiable, but some circumstances allow for a little flexibility. Getty Images/Archive Holdings Inc. Recently, when another Southern Living editor welcomed a baby into her family, I dropped off some homemade granola and yogurt with a congratulatory message and a follow-up text that she should not, under any circumstances, write me a thank-you note. I meant it! My goal in bringing over a simple breakfast was to make a new moms life easier, not add one more thing to her to-do list. Of course, her Mobile, Alabama, mother must have taken the same drill sergeant approach to thank-you notes that my Charleston mom had, and within days, her thoughtful words of gratitude landed in my mailbox. I rolled my eyes and laughedsurely she couldve used a nap or a shower in the time shed spent writing itbut it also made me smile in appreciation. After all, nobodys ever been upset about receiving a thank-you note, even one that the writer was told not to send! But it does raise a fair etiquette question: If someone tells you not to send a thank-you note, is it okay to take them up on it? Heres what our etiquette experts and editors had to say. Meet the Experts When Should You Send A Thank-You Note? For Diane Gottsman, a national etiquette expert and founder of The Protocol School of Texas, its cut and dry when it comes to presents: Always send a thank-you note for a gift, she advises. Even when someone says, Please dont, smile kindly and get your pen and pretty stationery out when you get home. Its similar to when someone says, Please dont stand up for an introduction. Always stand and always write! You can never go wrong doing either. Lisa Richey, founder of Raleigh, North Carolina-based Manners To Go and The American Academy of Etiquette, Inc., agrees. Now, more than ever, it is time to get personal, she says. Sending an email or a text to thank someone for a gift is not personal. And theres no such thing as too many thank yous, she suggests: Every time you get a present, you should send a handwritten thank-you note. No matter how small the present (or how many you receive), your gift-givers deserve a letter of thanks for each one. Thats in part because of all the time and thought that goes into giving a gift, she says, from coming up with the perfect token to delivering it. Is It Ever Okay Not To Send A Thank-You Note? Other gestures may allow for a bit more flexibility, says Gottsman. For instance, if a neighbor picks up a gallon of milk for you while theyre already at the grocery store, a simple spoken thank youand perhaps a few muffins made with the milk they grabbed for youwill do the trick. While writing a thank-you note is clearly the gold standard of polite behavior, this black-and-white perspective doesnt always accommodate lifes curve balls. Context matters and sometimes allows a little wiggle room. If it's something they've sent because there was a death in the family, a new baby, or something time-consuming or emotionally taxing going on, I might take them up on their offer not to write a thank youeven if it's for a short time and only until I can send a note once things aren't so hectic, says Southern Living Senior Special Projects Katie Rousso. Otherwise, I typically write the thank-you note anyway. It can be hard to keep track of who told you to or not to, so I just make my way down my list. Which brings up another point: While promptness is preferred, better late than never is an adage worth subscribing to when it comes to thank-you notes. Finally, whether or not you feel comfortable taking someone up on their offer not to write a thank-you note sometimes comes down to your relationship with the giver. For me, if a very close friend explicitly tells me not to send one, I may take her up on the generous invitationand then make sure Im extra vocal in my gratitude the next time were together. But if my husbands aunt or my moms best friend were to make the same offer, Id never dare skip the note, no matter how sincere they may be! My mama didn't raise a fool. For more Southern Living news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on Southern Living. If you've never tried gianduiotti, your life has been poorer for it. These Italian chocolates are nothing short of a revelation. Often wrapped in gorgeous gold paper, you'll find them all over the place in Italy, from convenience stores to artisan chocolate shops. Although they date back to 19th century Turin, very little has changed about the recipe. I first encountered them as a child when my nonna my Italian grandma would send them over in Christmas and birthday packages from Italy. They were always my favorite thing in the package and my love for them has only grown with time. Anyone who loves Nutella or other chocolate hazelnut confectionery is in for a treat. Gianduiotti (or gianduiotto in the singular) basically taste like Nutella in solid form except better. You might wonder how much there is to say about one type of chocolate, but gianduiotti have a rich and interesting history. We've got all the information you ever wanted about them and more. From their history to how they taste to the varieties available today, we've got lots to say about these tasty treats. Once you've finished reading, we guarantee you'll be Googling where you can find them in your area. You can thank us later. Read more: 13 Store-Bought Ice Cream Bars Ranked From Worst To Best They Were Invented In Turin, Italy In The 1800s gianduiotti with a Turin square in background - RossHelen/Shutterstock When you bite into a gianduiotto, there's over 150 years of history behind it. Gianduiotti were invented in the city of Turin in the region of Piedmont in the North of Italy. There are a range of claims about exactly when and by whom they were first made. They seem to be linked to a company called Caffarel that had been crafting chocolate in Turin since the 1820s. Whether or not Cafferel was truly the inventor of gianduiotti, it was the company that first sold to the public during 1865's carnival celebrations in Turin. Turin already had a booming chocolate industry at this time, having been known for its chocolate since the 1500s. However, at this time, it was rare to find individually wrapped chocolates, so when gianduiotti came on the scene, it was a big deal. The fact they were sold at the carnival celebrations is how they ended up with the name gianduiotti they were named after a character called Gianduja, whose image is considered Turin's official carnival mask. The method for making these chocolates spread, and soon other chocolatiers were making them in Turin and eventually beyond. The fact that you can still buy them today and some are made using the same original recipe is a testament to how delicious they are. Hazelnut Is One Of The Main Ingredients hazelnuts spilling from rustic bag - Mumininan/Getty Images What makes gianduiotti stand out from other chocolates is that they contain a large quantity of hazelnuts in their recipe. But, these aren't whole hazelnuts rather, the hazelnuts are ground or crushed into a paste. This hazelnut paste is mixed with cocoa mass and sugar to create solid yet melt-in-the-mouth chocolates. But why hazelnuts? Well, Turin is in the region of Piedmont, which is known for its hazelnuts. In fact, Piedmont hazelnuts are considered some of the best in the world. With this abundant resource nearby, it makes sense that hazelnuts made their way into Turin's confectionery. While there isn't a mandated minimum percentage of hazelnuts for gianduiotti, it's generally considered that more hazelnuts equals a higher quality product. So, what percentage of hazelnut should you expect? Most mass-produced gianduiotti contain somewhere in the region of 25% to 35% hazelnuts. However, the best handmade gianduiotti contain around 40% hazelnut. This gives you a more richly hazelnutty flavor and that's a plus. The hazelnuts are roasted, which also contributes to the complexity of flavor. Their History Is Filled With Myths gianduja chocolate and hazelnuts on wooden board - GCapture/Shutterstock Look into the history of gianduiotti and you'll often see one story linked to it. This story states that the creation of gianduiotti was attributed to a shortage of cocoa during the Napoleonic blockade in the early 1800s. During the Napoleonic Wars, the import of certain goods, including cocoa, was prohibited or limited, which left chocolate makers in a quandary. To cope with the scarcity of cocoa, local chocolatiers in Turin started blending chocolate with hazelnuts, which were abundant in the region. This story, however, is likely untrue. While there's certainly truth to the fact that it would have been difficult to import cocoa into the Piedmont region during this time, the dates don't add up. The Napoleonic Wars lasted from 1803 to 1815, but gianduiotti were first sold in 1865. There's also some question over exactly when and by whom they were invented. One common story is that they were invented by the people at the Caffarel chocolate company and another chocolatier called Michele Prochet in 1852. However, Prochet would only have been 13 at this time, so it seems unlikely. There are also no primary sources to back this up. It's also quite possible that chocolate and hazelnut had been combined in confectionery for some time before gianduiotti were first sold at the 1865 Turin carnival celebrations. So, it may well be that no single person invented these chocolates, but the recipe was simply adapted and improved upon over time. Gianduiotti Taste A Lot Like Nutella chocolate hazelnut spread - Carlosgaw/Getty Images I have eaten a lot of gianduiotti in my time, and I can confirm that they have a lot in common with Nutella, flavor-wise. This boils down to the fact that Nutella is a spread made from chocolate and hazelnuts (and more), just as gianduiotti are mainly composed of these two key ingredients. The difference, however, is that gianduiotti taste like elevated Nutella. They contain a much larger percentage of hazelnuts, less sugar, and fewer fillers. Nutella is actually only 13% it's hefty on the sugar and is bulked out with palm oil. So, you can imagine that gianduiotti have a more refined flavor with their 25% to 40% hazelnut content and simpler ingredient list. Interestingly, though, Nutella and gianduiotti do have some degree of shared history. Nutella was invented by a pastry chef called Pietro Ferrero, who worked in Piedmont the same region gianduiotti hail from. When cocoa became harder to come by during World War II, he created a loaf made of hazelnuts, sugar, and the small quantity of cocoa available. Eventually, he turned it into a spreadable paste that he first sold a La Supercrema before changing its name to Nutella. They're Made By Multiple Brands gianduiotti on gold paper - Luigi Bertello/Shutterstock Various chocolatiers produce gianduiotti, and you can find them from different brands. We've already mentioned Cafferel, a company that's been producing what it claims to be the original gianduiotti since 1865, but what about other brands? There are several iconic makers of gianduiotti in different parts of Italy. Established in Turin in 1878, Venchi is a historic Italian chocolate brand known for its premium chocolates, including gianduiotti and other hazelnut-flavored treats. Novi is a chocolate company that produces gianduiotti, among other chocolates. It was founded in 1903 in Novi Ligure, Italy. Then there's Perugina, which started in Perugia, Italy, in 1907, and is known for its gianduiotti, as well as chocolates called Baci. In addition to the industrial manufacturers, you'll also find small, artisan chocolatiers still making gianduiotti the old-fashioned way by hand in Turin. It's a city that should be on any chocolate lover's travel bucket list. They Come In Milk And Dark Varieties wrapped gianduiotti - CatwalkPhotos/Shutterstock Gianduiotti are sold in both milk and dark varieties. Although the original recipe wouldn't have contained milk (it wasn't until 1875 that milk chocolate was invented), many recipes today contain a small amount of milk powder to appeal to the mass market. Milk chocolate is generally more popular than dark chocolate, so many folks prefer the less intense flavor of gianduiotti made with milk. That said, there's a place for the dark chocolate variety, too. With a higher percentage of cocoa, you get a more intensely chocolatey flavor that some people prefer. Not to mention that, without milk, these chocolates are suitable for vegans or the lactose intolerant. But, even in their dark form, you might be surprised that they don't contain milk. The hazelnut paste cuts the chocolate flavor and introduces a creaminess that straight-up dark chocolate doesn't have. The higher the percentage of hazelnut, the richer and creamier you can expect a gianduiotto to be. You Can Occasionally Find Flavored Versions pistachios - Jtyler/Getty Images Standard chocolate gianduiotti whether milk or dark are the most commonly found options, but you can occasionally find flavored varieties. While these chocolates are tasty enough in their own right that they don't need to be flavored, sometimes it's nice to try out something new. So, what kinds of flavors are available? Well, Venchi one popular maker of gianduiotti crafts pistachio versions. These are quite different from the originals, as Venchi uses pistachio paste instead of hazelnut paste. It also chooses to use cocoa butter instead of cocoa mass, which gives them a white chocolate type finish that pairs beautifully with pistachio. Some flavored versions still use hazelnuts but add some additional flavored ingredients into the mix. For instance, Turin chocolatier Davide Appendino makes coffee-flavored and white chocolate versions of the classic gianduiotto. Other flavors available include chili and orange. It's worth noting, however, that many of these flavored versions are rare, so you're unlikely to simply stumble upon them, even at an Italian deli or other specialty store. They're A Form Of Gianduja bread with gianduja spread - GCapture/Shutterstock Gianduiotti belong to the larger family of gianduja chocolate. Gianduja is a type of chocolate characterized by its smooth texture and distinct flavor, which comes from the combination of chocolate and hazelnuts. As with gianduiotti, it's named after "Gianduja," a traditional carnival character from the region. Gianduiotti is actually the diminutive form of this, meaning little Gianduja. So, the name is saying that these chocolates are a little form of gianduja chocolate. You can find gianduja chocolate in various forms, including bars, pralines, and spreads. Gianduiotti is one popular manifestation of gianduja chocolate, but it certainly isn't the only one. If you don't want individual pieces of gianduja, you can buy it in large bars or even spread it onto your toast. Gianduiotti are a specific form of gianduja chocolate, shaped as small triangular prisms, with historical roots in the Piedmont region of Italy. The terms are sometimes used interchangeably, but the name gianduiotti specifically refers to the small, individually wrapped chocolates. The Best Gianduiotti Are Still Found In Turin gianduiotti in window in Turin - Alessandro Albert/Getty Images While you can find mass-produced gianduiotti in many parts of the world, you'll still find many small, artisan producers in Turin, the birthplace of gianduja. The city's rich chocolate tradition, coupled with a commitment to quality and tradition, ensures that Turin is still the place to go if you want to try the finest gianduiotti. Artisan producers in Turin pay homage to the heritage of gianduja, meticulously blending high-quality cocoa with locally sourced hazelnuts to create sublime chocolates. These small-scale producers, often family-run establishments, adhere to time-honored recipes and techniques. The resulting gianduiotti are like nothing you should find on a grocery store shelf. It's this level of care and attention to detail that distinguishes Turin's gianduiotti from their mass-produced counterparts. If you find yourself in Turin, there are some places you should definitely head to. Guido Castagna makes some of the best gianduiotti in Turin, using cocoa aged and roasted in-house. A. Giordano is another master chocolatier in Turin, with a shop that's been open since 1897. Here, gianduiotti are made using traditional methods, including being cut and wrapped by hand. The Hazelnuts In Them Used To Be Pounded Into A Paste By Hand bowl of hazelnut paste - Pixel-Shot/Shutterstock The traditional process of making gianduiotti involves a meticulous and labor-intensive step: hand-pounding hazelnuts into a smooth paste. This method, rooted in the historical origins of gianduja in the Piedmont region of Italy, contributes to the unique texture and flavor profile of these iconic chocolates. The hand-pounding of hazelnuts not only incorporated the nut's rich flavor into the chocolate but also imparted a velvety smoothness to the gianduja mixture. Of course, things aren't the same today and modern production methods involve mechanized processes for efficiency. However, some artisanal chocolatiers in Turin still adhere to the traditional practice of hand-pounding hazelnuts. This commitment to heritage and craftsmanship ensures that the gianduiotti maintain a connection to their historic roots. It offers chocolate enthusiasts a taste of the past and a tribute to the artisanal traditions that make these treats truly special. These kinds of totally handmade gianduiotti generally don't contain the kinds of stabilizers or preservatives that give them a long shelf life. This means you won't find them for sale far outside Turin or the Piedmont region, so you'll probably have to go a long way to sample them. You Can Bake With Them But It Might Get Pricey chocolate chip cookies - Stefan Tomic/Getty Images Want to do more with your gianduiotti? Why not bake with them? You can add them whole or chopped to cake or cookie recipes to add a delicious chocolate hazelnut flavor. Basically, anywhere that you might add chocolate chunks, you could use gianduiotti. It's also possible to melt them for use in recipes that call for melted chocolate. That said, these chocolates are quite expensive, so you should think carefully about whether the recipe is worth it. If the flavor of the gianduiotti has a chance of getting lost in the recipe, it's better to use some cheaper chocolate. In a vanilla sponge or cookie, however, the chocolate hazelnut taste really comes through. In terms of cost, you might find yourself better off using a gianduja bar rather than individual gianduiotti, though. In my baking, I've generally reserved them for decoration. I'll never forget a birthday cake I made for my father, who was Italian and loved gianduiotti. It featured a chocolate sponge, chocolate hazelnut frosting, and gianduiotti arranged on top. In this context, they become a luxurious decoration that stands out and makes a celebration cake extra special. Read the original article on Mashed. "Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." Hearst Owned Hearst Owned When you bite into a potsticker or pork bun from the Boston-based company Dumpling Daughter, you know instantly that it isnt your standard frozen fare. The skin is delicate, not dense; the fillings tender and fragrant; and the famous secret sauce, a spicy-sweet soy, has a deep but subtle kick that doesnt overpower what youre dipping into it. The woman behind these delicious bites is Nadia Liu Spellman, bona fide restaurant royalty. Liu Spellmans parents were the forces behind Sally Lings, one of the countrys first high-end Chinese restaurants, which was named for Liu Spellmans mother and, before it closed in 2003, frequented by chefs like Julia Child and Martin Yan. I was 2 when it opened, and food and hospitality became a part of my DNA, Liu Spellman says. I was always trying new banquet-style dishes and making dumplings on the weekends with my family. Some of our best memories were around the table. She didnt get just her cooking chops from her parents, though. She also inherited clear values: My father always instilled in me to do what moves me and what Im passionate aboutand most importantly, to be a self-sufficient woman. Hed say that it doesnt matter who you marry; it doesnt matter if you inherit anything. Follow your dream and your passion. Dont be afraid to be authentic. Heres how shes stayed true to his words. Where the idea came from I wanted to share dumplingsand the culture of eating dumplings around the tablewith more people. I saw this great opportunity in the frozen dumpling market because it was not mainstream at all. Some advisers told me to serve it to customers first and get their feedback, make a brand, build a story. So I did what I was comfortable with: I opened a restaurant. This year, 2024, will be Dumpling Daughters 10th anniversary. I opened it in my hometown, Weston, Massachusetts, because thats where my father always dreamed of having a quick-service restaurant. Weston happened to have an available locationand I actually spoke to the same landlord my father had decades before. What she learned in the hard times The first year, I did not take a day off. I cared so much. But there was a line out the door at times, and I remember being so stressed; I was like, I cant take any more people in here. This is too crowded. My aunt came up to me and said, Nadia, you need to leave the restaurant for five minutes a day. Go outside and take deep breaths. Focus on your own body and your presence. And I practiced that. As my career got more intense, I learned to focus on my wellness in order to fuel the rest of my life. Fast-forward to 2020, I had three restaurants and was pregnant during lockdown. I wanted to find a way to navigate this unforeseen time and lower the chances of Dumpling Daughter failing. I was thinking about ways I could continue to serve my community, so I started building meal kits and shooting YouTube videos on how to cut Chinese vegetables and food so people could follow along while preparing their dinner. At 5 p.m. on Sundays, we would sign on to Zoom and cook dishes for our families together. One evening, I realized I had 40 people on Zoom. Cooking with gas When I decided it was finally time to sell frozen dumplings, I started through my brick-and-mortar stores. Then local supermarkets started calling us to buy them. I designed a box and started delivering them. Then they wanted the sauce. Then customers were telling me they were sending this stuff to their friends. So in 2021, we launched our website, where people can order the dumplings and sauce direct to their door. When our products get into peoples hands, theyre cooking a fresh dumpling because ours are raw frozen at the factory. When you cook them, youre cooking them for the very first time. How she celebrates Lunar New Year In my family, we start the Lunar New Year the night before with a big family meal on the last night of the year. We make sure there are plenty of leftovers to have a surplus going into the next year. On the first day of the New Year, we spend the morning making fresh dumplings and feast on them as a family. The first day of the New Year should be exemplary, and I love setting this positive tone. Shop Now Dumpling Daughter Heirloom Recipes amazon.com $35.00 Honoring her family legacy My entire career has just been, How can I serve more dumplings? My goal is to bring this authentic Chinese cuisine to as many homes as possible. That triggered me to ask my mom for more recipes, and we wrote a book with about 85 recipes that celebrate the legacy my parents built and how Dumpling Daughter came to be. I love that people know they can rely on us, that this is exactly what my grandmother made. Its a classic dishand one of the oldest in existence. I think my dad, who passed away in 2009, would be so proud that I followed his guidance of doing what youre passionate about and what is authentic to you. What I do every day is celebrate this idea of generational family business and service to the community through food. Its all really joyous, truly. Even in the hard times. Send Dumpling Daughters flavors straight to your door (or your familys) here . You Might Also Like There appears to be trouble at Saadia Group LLC. Saadia is the parent company of multiple online e-tailers which include Lord & Taylor, Le Tote and New York & Co. The company also owns and manages more than 10 million square feet of commercial real estate across 25 properties in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, according to its LinkedIn page. More from Sourcing Journal A call to a mobile number connected to Saadia Group resulted in a recording indicating that a message could not be left because the mailbox is full. Moreover, the companys website Saadia.com appears to be disabled. And the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website indicates that the operating status of Saadia Distribution LLC, a distribution center located at 1000 Stony Battery Rd, in Lancaster, Penn., is out-of-service as of Dec. 30, 2023. The FMCSA info was noted in a report on 6abc.com about customer issues with Le Tote. A deeper dive shows theres been trouble at other fashion sites that Saadia operates. An online search pulled up blog posts indicating problems at both Le Tote and New York & Co., either for shipping delays or inability to cancel membership for rental services. There also have been numerous complaints with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), with 1,580 logged for New York & Co. Many of the BBB complaints entered since the beginning of 2024 show that they remain unresolved. The Le Tote site has a help center with a how to reach us tab. Sourcing Journal sent an e-mail, but hasnt heard back. A reference to a Chatbot on the home page doesnt appear, suggesting that it has been disabled. The Lord & Taylor web page offers a code for 30 percent off sitewide, while items marked clearance are up to 90 percent off. The contact tab at the bottom of the home page, when clicked on, takes one to a page that includes a live chat. But clicking on the live chat icon does nothing, indicating that it too has been disabled. A call to New York & Co.s main number has one on hold for about 7 minutes before a recording begins informing the caller to leave a voicemail message. A message was left with contact info, but no response has been received. Saadia also is on the receiving end of several lawsuits. Cushman & Wakefield reportedly filed a lawsuit last month to collect on $2.5 million owed in back rent for a sublease of office space at 275 Madison Ave. in Manhattan. In December, plaintiffs Kanisha Mitchell and Kim Mosely filed a lawsuit in a federal court in Los Angeles seeking class-action status alleging deceptive pricing on items sold on the New York & Co. website in violation of the Federal Trade Commission Act. The lawsuit also alleges a violation under the California False Advertising Law. Saadia is a named defendant in the suit. Last May, a federal district court in Manhattan ruled in favor of actress Gabrielle Union, granting a preliminary injunction barring Saadia from using the Gabrielle Union trademark and from selling product bearing the mark. The actress launched a fashion partnership with New York & Co. in 2017, which was expanded to Fashion to Figure. A new agreement through her business companies was inked with Saadia in 2021, giving her certain approvals and the expansion of the line to include Lord & Taylor. Unions breach of contract suit indicated that Saadia failed to make royalty payments and other fees owed beginning in May 2022, resulting in the termination of the agreement. Saadia acquired the bankrupt RTW Retailwinds Inc.s e-commerce businesses in October 2020 for $40 million, which included New York & Co. and the plus-size fashion site Fashion to Figure. Le Tote, founded in 2012, acquired Lord & Taylor for $100 million in 2019, but the parent firm ended up in bankruptcy in August 2020. In November 2020, Saadia closed on its acquisition of the intellectual property and e-commerce assets of Le Tote and Lord & Taylor for $12 million. The digitally native Le Tote continued to operate during bankruptcy proceedings, while Saadia in April 2021 relaunched Lord & Taylor as a digital business. Saadia in Sept. 2021 also acquired luxury footwear brand Aquatalia for a reported $23 million when its former parent Global Brands Group entered bankruptcy proceedings. Executives at Saadia Group could not be reached for comment. The holiday season wasnt so magical for Kering. The French luxury conglomerate, led by Francois-Henri Pinault, saw its overall sales decline by 6 percent in the last quarter of 2023, Hypebeast reported on Thursday. In total, the brand saw sales of 5 billion euros ($5.4 billion) in the three months ending December 31. While thats a sizable dip, its less than the 8 percent decrease that industry experts had forecasted. More from Robb Report At Gucci, the groups top-performing brand, sales fell 4 percent, on the lower side of analysts expectations, Hypebeast noted. (That didnt include items designed by the houses new creative director, Sabato De Sarno, whose designs will become available in stores this spring.) Gucci made up some 68 percent of Kerings total operating profits in 2023, and Pinault said the conglomerate would reinvest in the brand this year. We are focused on revitalizing Gucci, leveraging the unique blend of craftsmanship, Italian heritage, and modernity that characterizes this iconic House, the CEO said in a statement. In a market environment that remains uncertain in early 2024, our continuing investments in our Houses will put pressure on our results in the short term. Thanks to the experience gained across the group through a decade of outstanding expansion, we are confident in achieving our long-term ambitions. Pinault was referring to an overall slowdown thats taken place in the luxury market in recent months. Facing uncertain economic headwinds, many consumers have cut back on their spending, especially on items that may not be essential, such as luxury clothing and accessories. Kering did note that its seen positive growth in the Asia-Pacific region, a trend that is being experienced by many companies: Brands such as Hermes and Louis Vuitton have been investing in places like Hong Kong, where they see potential for further luxury spending. If there is any good news in Kerings latest results, its that the Q4 numbers were slightly better than those in Q3, when sales dipped a whopping 13 percent. During that period, the group saw sales tally 4.5 billion euros ($4.8 billion). For the entirety of 2023, Kerings net profits fell 18 percent, to 3.1 billion euros ($3.3 billion). While we cant know exactly how the luxury market will shake out this year, Kering is likely hoping for a more bountiful 2024. Sign up for Robb Report's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. The nations first cooperative for processing soybeans opened in Henderson in 1941 and in 1949 it broke ground again by using a new extraction process. The process, however, broke the citys sewer system in 1957 by playing tiddlywinks with manhole covers. Dark tobacco had been Henderson Countys main cash crop for most of its history; much of the output was exported but by the end of the 1940s most of those export markets had dried up. That prompted the Henderson County Farm Bureau, under the leadership of Ben E. Niles, to begin looking for a replacement crop. The problem with growing soybeans here, however, is that most of the profits would be eaten up by transportation costs getting the beans to a processing facility. A Farm Bureau delegation visited Urbana, Decatur, and Champaign, Illinois, to gather information about growing methods and the general outlook for building a processing facility, according to a Gleaner story from March 21, 1940. Work on the Ohio Valley Soybean Cooperative plant, which was located on Fifth Street on land now occupied by Bakery Feeds, began in October 1940 and the plant began operating June 18, 1941. It wasn't long before the mill got up to speed. The July 13 issue of The Gleaner reported the mill was operating day and night, and that the first rail car of soybean oil was set to go out that week. During the first two months of operation the mill bought 19,368 bushels of beans at a cost of $21,154. After processing it into oil and meal, the cooperative realized a return of $28,895. The plant initially had two presses, exerting 125 pounds per square inch, built to operate around the clock. Processing capacity was 400,000 to 500,000 bushels annually, which was provided by 364 farmers. A local market greatly enhanced the growing of soybeans in this area, so much so that a third press was added in 1943. The soybean cooperative, by the way, contributed to the growth of Hendersons plastics industries. According to The Gleaner of March 6, 1946, ground was broken for Kusan Inc., one of Hendersons pioneer plastic injection molding factories; it was the first to begin using raw material from the soybean cooperative. The soybean plants second act was detailed in The Gleaner of Feb. 16, 1949, which explained the new process the plant was beginning that day. Installation of the new equipment had been ongoing for the previous seven months. First the beans are chipped and rubbed into very fine flakes. Then they are run through a liquid called hexane, a petroleum derivative, which dissolves the oil contained in the beans. The liquid was then distilled to separate the soybean oil from the hexane, which was then reused. The soybeans were dried and made into meal, which mostly was sold to farmers to supplement livestock feed. The Ohio Valley Soybean Cooperative opened in 1941 on outer Fifth Street and in 1949 it was reworked to use hexane to extract oil from the beans. That hexane leaked into the sewer line and caused a series of explosions on Christmas Eve 1956 Each bushel of soybeans produces from 9.5 to 10 pounds of oil. Using the old method, only about seven to eight pounds could be extracted from each bushel. G.W. Allen, the plant manager, said the plant could produce about 20 tons more of soybean meal per day. All told, it was expected to produce more than 70 tons of meal and about 31,350 pounds of oil daily. The new plant was a showcase. Throughout the 1950s it was regularly visited by foreign visitors who wanted to learn more about the process. Most of those visits were arranged through the University of Kentuckys foreign education program. The flying manhole covers didnt come until Christmas Eve 1956, according to The Gleaner of Dec. 26. The hexane explosions happened in pairs in the sewer line between the rail crossing of Fifth Street and the soybean plant. The first was about 6:30 p.m. and the last about 8:30. Hexane, by the way, is fairly volatile and apparently quantities of it had leaked into the sewer line and ignited. The backlash of the subterranean blasts gushed water from bathroom fixtures in the area, and disrupted things in general. A boy was slightly injured when blown across a kitchen as the backlash exploded in his face from a kitchen sink. Herman Hussel, water and sewer superintendent, said he had ruled out a leaking natural gas main, which had been his first suspicion. It was the most unusual situation I have ever experienced, he said. The water superintendent indicated that he was fairly sure of the source of the gas, but was not ready to comment, The Gleaner reported. He did say, however, that the source would not be in operation again for a couple of days, so he was sure the condition would not recur in that time. When Hussel was first called to the scene he found the manhole cover at the Fifth Street pumping station about 30 feet away from its hole. A heavy cast iron lid at the station itself had also been moved out of place a couple of inches. The workmen replaced the covers and thought the excitement was over, Hussel said, when there were more reports that two more were blown off. As they were debating whether or not to put them in place again, there was another explosion. This time fire gushed from one of the 24-inch manholes three or four feet into the air. This blazed for about 25 minutes, observers said. The Gleaner of Jan. 25, 1957, reported the city spent $1,250 to replace 500 feet of new sewer line, although at that point the cause of the explosions was still not publicly revealed. That didnt come until the Henderson City Commission meeting of Sept. 9, 1957, in which the commission approved a settlement of $1,857 with Aetna Insurance, the carrier for the soybean cooperative. The Gleaner carried a brief story the following day. About the same time early 1957 a massive swindling scheme at the soybean mill came to light, which involved falsified weight tickets, although the cheating had been ongoing since at least 1952. The cooperative lost more than $50,000. A mill employee was sentenced to a year in jail and a Union County farmer got a five-year sentence. There were also civil suits that werent resolved until April 1959. The soybean cooperative didnt last too much longer. Members voted to dissolve it June 19, 1962, and dissolution was completed by June 17, 1963. The Henderson City Commission minutes of June 4, 1963, show the city was paid all of nine cents for its three shares of common stock. Thats because the liquidation payment rate was 2.98 cents for each dollars worth of shares. 100 YEARS AGO The traffic semaphore at Second and Main streets, which was put in place in the fall of 1923, was temporarily retired while the citys two police forces were at odds but The Gleaner of Feb. 17, 1924, said it was back in service. The Gleaner of Oct. 3, 1923, described it: This sign has a 60-pound iron base, is of heavy metal tubing and is eight feet in height. It is surmounted by a regular semaphore lantern with red and green lenses, which could use either oil or electricity for lighting. The sign had been leaning against a telephone pole at the intersection while not being used. 50 YEARS AGO The Henderson Post Office had invested in several lightweight bicycles, according to the caption of a photo that appeared in The Gleaner of Feb. 13, 1974. Depicted with one of the bicycles was Patricia Shockley. The bicycle, which was purchased in order to save gasoline, is often used in the afternoons for special deliveries within about a mile of the post office. 25 YEARS AGO The consultants conquered when it came to riverfront redevelopment. The Gleaner of Feb. 17, 1999, reported that the previous evening, during a workshop of the Henderson City Commission, the Hargreaves Associates idea of extending Second and Third streets into boat ramps with an amphitheater between them had been scrapped. Thats exactly what was built in the end, however except for the idea of eventually turning the amphitheater area into a basin for small watercraft. As of February 1999, however, the commission tentatively decided to use the money saved by junking that fingers plan of boat ramps to build what is now Redbanks Park and to clean up the area around the old Station I power plant. Readers of The Gleaner can reach Frank Boyett at YesNews42@yahoo.com. This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: Henderson history: Soybean plants tech led to spectacular explosions While wearing clasps has been in style since ancient Greece (brooches that fastened to togas were the mode du jour), the humble safety pin made its way into the fashion zeitgeist thanks to the emergence of punk rock. The gritty aesthetic, favored by artists like Johnny Rotten, eventually translated to the runways of Vivienne Westwood and Malcom McLaren, among others, elevating punk style from subculture to pop culture. Since the late 70s, designers have used safety pins to make fashion statements. Labels like Versace, Moschino and Balmain have feminized the safety pin, affixing them to daring dresses and edgy gowns: Elizabeth Hurley famously made a splash after sporting a safety pin-embellished Versace dress in 1994 at the premiere of Four Weddings and a Funeral, while John Galliano reinvented one of his vintage designs for Miley Cyrus at the 2024 Grammys, draping her in 14,000 gold safety pins. More from WWD Ahead, WWD looks back at the evolution of the safety pin dress. Zandra Rhodes Zandra Rhodes 1978 bridal gown. Along with contemporaries like McLaren, Westwood and Stephen Sprouse, Zandra Rhodes made punk fashion mainstream. For her conceptual-chic collection inspired by London street style, the British designer flipped the traditional couture bride on its head by crafting a white gown adorned with safety pins and ball chains. Versace Hugh Grant and Elizabeth Hurley attend the premiere of Four Weddings and a Funeral in 1994. In 1994, Versace put Hurley on the map by dressing her in a daring safety pin dress. Her appearance alongside then-boyfriend Hugh Grant at the London premiere of Four Weddings and a Funeral is largely credited with raising her celebrity profile: a year later, Hurley was tapped as a spokesmodel for Estee Lauder. Since catapulting their visibility in the 1990s, safety pins have become one of Versaces most popular motifs. John Gallianos fall 1997 fashion show. Before Miley Cyrus wore John Gallianos Margiela safety pin dress, the British designer debuted two of his own designs in 1997. Gallianos fall collection, which was partially inspired by ancient Egyptian regalia, featured two gowns made from safety pins. Moschino Stella Tennant walks the runway for Moschinos spring 1998 collection. Moschino, a label known for its campy creations, has also dabbled in the safety pin dress. For the brands spring 1998 collection, creative director Franco Moschino sent Stella Tennant down the runway in a simple shift adorned with silver embellishments, including safety pins. Gareth Pugh Gareth Pughs fall 2008 runway. Beyonce, Lady Gaga and Kylie Minogue have all favored Gareth Pughs edgy designs. For his fall 2008 collection, the British couturier created two dresses decorated with rows of silver safety pins. Balmain Kristen Stewart at the MTV Movie Awards in 2011. Balmains spring 2011 line featured a flurry of leather garments embellished with safety pins. Kristen Stewart, who was then in her Twilight heyday, wore a custom Balmain design based on the punk-inspired collection at the MTV Movie Awards. Jean Paul Gaultier Jean Paul Gaultiers fall 2022 haute couture show. Following his retirement in 2020, Jean Paul Gaultier tapped the talents of several designers to create collections for his eponymous label. Balmains creative director, Olivier Rousteing, took the helm for Gaultiers fall 2022 haute couture show, designing a floor-length gown that was partially held together by gold safety pins. Versace Anne Hathaway at the 2023 Met Gala. Versace reinvented its safety pin dress to pay homage to Karl Lagerfeld at the 2023 Met Gala. The Italian label dressed Anne Hathaway in a gown that mixed Chanels classic motifs (pearls, camellias and tweed) with Versaces Medusa-emblazoned clasps. Maison Margiela Miley Cyrus at the 2024 Grammys. Galliano referenced his old work to design a new dress for Cyrus at the Grammys. Under the Maison Margiela label, he created a gold frock made from 14,000 safety pins. Models pose in ensembles from Zandra Rhodes "Conceptual Chic" collection inspired by London's punk style street fashions. (Photo by Tim Jenkins/WWD/Penske Media via Getty Images) LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 11: British actor Hugh Grant (R) and his girlfriend Elizabeth Hurley attend the premiere of "Four Weddings And A Funeral" on May 11, 1994 in London, England. (Photo by Dave Benett/Hulton Archive/Getty Images) History of Safety Pin Dresses: Miley Cyrus to Ancient Greece View Gallery Launch Gallery: Safety Pin Dresses Through the Years: Miley Cyrus, Elizabeth Hurley & More [PHOTOS] Best of WWD More than 200 Afghans who applied for sanctuary in the UK have been waiting two years for a decision from British authorities, The Independent can reveal. The Afghans, who applied for help based on their claims they helped the British armed forces, have been left in limbo, with many living in fear for their lives, campaigners said. Armed forces minister James Heappey confirmed 2,125 people were still waiting on a decision as of Tuesday, with 10 per cent of these waiting for two years. The numbers waiting on a decision are up from 2,026 applications in September 2023, despite the Ministry of Defence pledging to cut the backlog to zero by the end of summer. Ministers have faced criticism over their handling of applications to the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (Arap) scheme, designed for those who worked alongside the British forces in Afghanistan. A member of Border Force staff assists an Afghan refugee on her arrival on an evacuation flight from Afghanistan, at Heathrow (Getty) In a joint investigation with Lighthouse Reports and Sky News, The Independent revealed that the cases of Afghan special forces who were paid and trained by the UK government had been wrongly rejected for help. The government has now committed to reassessing some 2,000 applications from those with credible links to Afghan specialist units. Afghans who had confirmed links to the British armed forces were also abandoned in hotels in Pakistan for months on end after Rishi Sunak decided to limit the use of hotels in the UK. Those waiting for a decision in Afghanistan will face a further wait for relocation even if they are found eligible, with restarted MoD flights now transferring people from Pakistan to the UK. Of the 2,125 Afghans who are still waiting on a resettlement decision, 207 have been waiting two years, 333 for a year and 268 have been waiting for 18 months, government figures show. 750 of the cases are new, while the rest are complex, the MoD said. Labours shadow armed forces minister Luke Pollard said that the governments treatment of Afghans has been a shameful saga of failure. He added: Ministers have failed to deal with the backlog of Arap applications, left Afghans who served alongside our forces in limbo and thousands are still waiting for decisions on their eligibility to relocate to the UK. Sarah Fenby-Dixon, Afghanistan consultant at the Refugee Aid Network, said that the fact more than 2,000 people were still waiting on an Arap decision is evidence that the government has failed to understand the gravity of the situation for those Afghans left behind and at risk. She added: Many of these people face serious and immediate threats because of their previous work with HM government. Just today, it is reported that the Taliban are again carrying out house-to-house searches in Kabul and many Arap applicants face torture and death if they are found. She called on the government to get the backlog cleared as quickly as possible. One Afghan former intelligence analyst, who provided letters of support from his RAF colleagues, has been waiting on his Arap decision for over two years. He fled to the UK on a small boat, is now living in a Home Office hotel, and has been threatened with removal to Rwanda. He said he had written numerous times to the MoDs resettlement scheme pleading with them to assess his case. He added: What the MoD is currently doing is complete betrayal and unfairness. Ive written to them ten times but I get no response at all. It seems like they have completely closed Arap and left everyone out. An MoD spokesperson said: We are honouring our commitment to those brave Afghans who supported the UK mission in Afghanistan, and those granted settled status. We continue to process every Arap application at pace and the vast majority have been processed. The small number remaining are mainly a mixture of new cases or very complex cases. So far, we have brought around 24,600 people to safety from Afghanistan, including over 15,600 people from the Arap scheme, which is one of the most generous of any country, and thousands of Afghans are eligible for our resettlement schemes. The critically acclaimed series True Detective is back. The fourth installment of the thriller returned to HBO on January 14 with Night Country, an atmospheric exploration of life for residents of fictional Ennis, Alaska, after a group of researchers are found stripped naked and frozen in the snow. On its face, the new season is an eerily macabre murder mystery set against the inhospitable landscape of frozen perpetual night. In fact, what director, creator, and writer Issa Lopez built is an intrepid and unapologetic character study about the power, compassion, and kinship of Indigenous women. On- and offscreen, Indigenous women are the heart and soul of this show. In starring roles, Isabella Star LaBlanc, 26, and Anna Lambe, 23, are acting powerhouses, delivering career-defining performances that are deeply human, gut-wrenching, and historic. LaBlanc, who is Dakota herself, plays Leah, the stepdaughter of Liz Danvers (Jodie Foster); Lambe, who is Inuk, plays Kayla Prior, a young nursing student whos navigating motherhood and a strained marriage, all while helping Leah explore their characters Inupiaq roots. In preparation for the show, executive producer Mark Ceryak explains how, along with Lopez, their team met with Illuminative, a social justice organization led by Native women. They connected us with Princess Daazhraii Johnson and Cathy Tagnak Rexford, who both hail from Alaska and joined us to produce the series, he said in a statement. Johnson and Rexford assembled an advisory council made up of Inupiaq women who provided insight and advice on every aspect of production. Together with Lopez, they went through the script page by page, ensuring the story she told was an authentic one. As a result, Night Country is nothing short of a revelation, taking viewers on a propulsive journey into the depths of the very real scourge of violence and marginalization that Indigenous women face. Critically, it does so by representing Indigenous women not as victims who need saving but as forces to be reckoned with. Each of the six episodes unfolds as a love letter to the noir thriller genre and a testament to the art that can be created when we center the voices of the real people at the heart of the stories we tell. Watching Lambe and LaBlanc onscreen, its apparent that these are two emerging talents, holding their own opposite industry giants like Foster and Fiona Shaw (Rose Aguineau). And offscreen they are every bit as magnetic, carrying an infectious pride in their work and their heritage. We spoke with Isabella and Anna about the significance of telling Indigenous stories, the singular sense of community on set, and being the presidents of the Jodie Foster Fan Club. Glamour: This is such an important story about Indigenous women, and its significant that Indigenous women like yourselves are front and center in the cast. What did it mean to you both to be on this True Detective set? Anna Lambe: Being part of this project was really meaningful. I'm an Inuk. I'm from Iqaluit, Nunavut. I grew up there, and I didn't leave until I was 18 to go to university. Im very proud of where I come from, and very rooted in where I come from. To see the level of care that was put into this production, and to talk with Cathy Tagnak Rexford and Princess Daazhraii Johnson about Alaska, and to connect based onnot our shared realities because it's still very differentbut finding those different ways to relate and understand each other was really beautiful. Of course, meeting Izzy and Kali [Reis], it is just such a privilege. One of the beautiful things about this project and having a show with so many women and so many Indigenous women was the amount of community. The feeling of community and kinship and support was really beautiful and something that can feel so rare on a show as big as this one. It's such an incredible experience, and I'm very proud as a Northerner to be part of telling a Northern story. Isabella Star LaBlanc: I'm going to second what you said about community and kinship. I'm Dakota, and our name, what we call ourselves, translates to the friendly people. What I was always taught growing up is that the way to be a good Dakota person is to be a good relative and to take care of the people around you. I think that's so often something we leave out of these conversations about representation and about what stories we tell, and that it's really not about what we're doing, what story we're telling. It's about how we do it. I was so grateful that on this production there was so much reciprocity; just as much as I was giving to the team, they were giving back to me and all of these people that I was working with. I think that that does shine in the product. What was your first impression when you read the script? What was it about the storytelling and Indigenous representation that made you decide to do this project? Isaballe: What really makes a story scary is when you care about the people. I do think that that is what really drew me into these scripts immediately, and I think what's so often missed in Indigenous stories that are told from non-Indigenous people is that there's so much conversation about what we've lost and there's not really a lot of conversation about what's still at stake. I thought that Issa did such a beautiful job in this script of making it clear what is at stake for these communities, and what's beautiful and needs to be protected and is under attack, and so I think that is what makes it so terrifying. It felt really amazing to get to see so much of the beauty that I have grown up with in my community represented, even though we're talking about a different community. It felt really special. Anna: Seeing Indigenous women depicted as strong, but still with moments of vulnerabilityI recognize those moments. Its like the scene with Evangeline [Reis] and her sister, or the scenes showing the midwifery. I was watching it again today and just crying because it's so beautiful that we get to experience this onscreen. You could feel that there's so much love that went into it. The scripts were a representation of Indigenous women that I hadn't really seen much of before in film and television. I feel like, for a lot of us, there was this automatic sense of responsibility in the storytelling. I think it translated so beautifully. What a privilege to be part of it. I have to ask, what was it like working with Jodie Foster? Isabella: I mean, Jodie is incredible, and I feel so grateful that so much of my journey on the show is opposite her. I felt like I just got this invaluable opportunity to soak in all her brilliance. There's no one that doesn't like her, and she's really owned her career. She's really had the reins, and I'm so inspired by that. I look back at what she did leading up to The Silence of the Lambs, what she did after, and how every step of the way you can tell she's been really intentional about doing things that matter to her, taking care of herself as a person, taking care of herself as an artist. I feel like now I'm the president of her fan club. I'm sure there's a lot of people who would fight me for that title, but I will fight. Anna: Working with Jodie is literally a master class, not only in acting, but also in how to carry yourself through a set and through an industry so gracefully. I think she's been such an incredible inspiration for young actors, and somebody who really guides and protects them, especially young queer actors. [It's inspiring] seeing her being outspoken and supportive of actors like Bella Ramsey. When I grow up, I want to be like Jodie Foster. Without giving too much away, I think at its heart this show was not only about the pain and suffering of Indigenous women, but more importantly, about their resilience, their fight. Isabella: I'm obsessed with [how Issa told that story]. It feels so satisfying because I think to me, growing up and even now, I know that in my community we've had to be our own heroes for generations, but that's not the story that ever gets told. It's always that someone else has to come in and save us, and so it felt incredible to get to see this feels like the truth to me. You're right that it's both, that we can be both. Anna: I really love that it was about the women, and it was about justice. How do we define justice? What does justice mean to us in our communities? It wasn't about romanticizing the struggles of Indigenous peoples and especially the struggles of Indigenous women. It wasn't about sensationalizing a case and the focus being on, Oh, what is the case? What happened? As much as that is a very important element of the show, there's this constant push to understand why this violence is being inflicted upon Indigenous women, why the community of Ennis is experiencing what it's experiencing. It is so, so powerful because often in the media, it's just the death that gets all the attention and not who they were and what they had to give to their community and their place. There are plenty of twists that are going to throw viewers for a real loop, but without giving too much away, what do you think will surprise them the most? Isabella: I mean, Liz Danvers is wild, and the things she says are wild. There were sometimes that we would be shooting scenes, and I would have to stop myself from laughing because I'm like, It is so wonderful to watch Jodie Foster being this sometimes terrible person. It's very delicious to see. I hope some people are clutching their pearls at Alaska Karen. There's the one scene where I'm at Kayla's house, and the grandma's doing the lines on me, and Danvers comes in, and she was like, I don't know, something along the lines of, Shut up, laundromat grandma. I remember when we shot that, and I was like, Does she really say that? That is so wild. Originally Appeared on Glamour Petty theft in a middle school hardly seems to be the sort of crime that would set up a taut thriller, much less a film that confronts racism, cancel culture, censorship and press freedom while examining the power dynamics within an institution. But thats just what The Teachers Lounge, the best international feature Oscar nominee from Germany, does for a riveting 98 minutes as it follows an idealistic young teacher who finds herself plunged into an ever-deepening web of suspicion and conflict that threatens to tear the school apart. As the film opens, Carla Nowak (Leonie Benesch), a Polish emigre who teaches math and physical education, finds herself in an awkward meeting about thefts going on at the school, then in another where two representatives from her class are pressured to give up the names of those they suspect could be taking the money. That leads to a class shakedown of the boys only. When Ali (Can Rodenbostel), the son of Turkish immigrants, is found with an unusual amount of money in his wallet, hes accused by the faculty, only to find his parents gave him the cash to buy a birthday gift. That, obviously, is one of the films takes on racism, immigration and class bias. After seeing a fellow teacher rob the piggy bank for coffee payments in the teachers lounge, Carla sets a trap for the thief, leaving her wallet in the inside pocket of her jacket and turning on the camera of her laptop. Viewing the video, which shows the patterned sleeve of a blouse reaching into the jacket and removing the wallet then replacing it a few seconds later, Carla matches the pattern with the blouse being worn by office staffer Friederike Kuhn (Eva Lobau) and confronts her in the office. She denies the charges. Carla then goes to the principal, Dr. Bettina Bohm (Anne-Kathrin Gummich), who has a real problem on her hands a beloved employee accused of and likely guilty of theft, based on a surreptitiously recorded video that violates the schools privacy rules. And, further complicating matters, Friederikes son Oskar (Leonard Stettnisch) is Carlas star student, a math prodigy that she's nurtured with, among other things, the gift of a Rubiks Cube. While solving the crime isnt really the point of The Teachers Lounge, theres no reason to give much more away on that front, other than to say Ilker Catak manages to simultaneously crank up the tension while raising issues that have little to do with the theft itself. For example, at the height of the suspicion and conflict, Carlas interviewed by the school newspaper, which crafts a story headlined Scandal that is biased against her and the school administration and is immediately banned on publication. The Teachers Lounge connects via its story, set in a school environment that resonates internationally we all remember the teachers lounge at school and probably wondered what went on there the issues, like the censorship of student journalists that resonate through schools here, and through the performances of Benesch and Stettnisch. Benesch is on screen in nearly every scene, a gently luminous, deeply caring presence who becomes caught up in and tortured by a scandal somewhat of her own making. Stettnisch is perfect as the confused, resentful kid who, essentially, has to choose between defending his mom and his teacher. Its unlikely that The Teachers Lounge will win the International Feature Oscar. The Zone of Interest is nominated in that category and for best picture and, if they continue a time-honored pattern, theyll honor that film with the international prize. But theres no way that The Zone of Interest or any of the nominees is better than The Teachers Lounge, a thriller that has plenty to say about schools and society. Highest-grossing genres at the 2023 box office #10. Musical #7. Concert/Performance #6. Thriller/Suspense #5. Drama #3. Comedy #2. Adventure #1. Action As an insistent and vaguely cryptic header on the Jack Daniel's website reads, "It's not bourbon. It's Jack." Seems pretty defensive right out of the gate for a distillery with such a sturdy reputation. The page goes on to decry, "People often refer to Jack Daniel's as bourbon. But it isn't. It's a Tennessee whiskey and it says so right on the bottle." This begs the question of why so many whiskey lovers all seem to be asking this same thing -- and why does the distillery have an entire web page dedicated to making sure fans don't get it twisted? While the lore surrounding the origin of the "Old No. 7" name itself is murky some say it was the founder's lucky number, and others contend that it took him seven batches to get his recipe right the enduring lore around what type of liquor Old No. 7 is remains equally murky. For all this seeming redirection, one thing is certain: Many spirits belong to Jack Daniel's oeuvre, and while Single Barrel Tennessee Whiskey might not be bourbon, Old No. 7 is. The most likely reason why Jack Daniel's isn't marketed as bourbon is because the "Tennessee Whiskey" label is so essential to the brand's image. The distillery produces exclusively in Tennessee, a large part of its successful ideation as an accessible, tough, classic American liquor. "Bourbon," the brand seems to say, just doesn't fit in with Jack Daniel's image ... even if Old No. 7 technically is one. Read more: The 27 Best Bourbon Brands, Ranked Yes...but Don't Call It That Jack Daniel's Old No. 7 bottle - Noderog/Getty Images A look at legal classification helps shed some light. Per the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations, "whisky" is a liquor made from distilled grain that's aged in oak barrels and bottled with at least 40% alcohol content. "Bourbon whisky" is a subcategory that's subjected to strict regulations for craft, quality, and character. According to the authority of the American Bourbon Association, for a spirit to technically qualify as "bourbon," it must be made in America, aged in new charred oak barrels at no more than 125 proof, contain no color or flavor additives, contain at least 51% corn in the mash bill, be at least 80 proof at bottling, and be no stronger than 160 proof at distilling. Like bourbon, Jack Daniel's Old No. 7 is made in America, contains no additives, is aged in new charred oak barrels, and enters the barrel at 125 proof. But, unlike bourbon, most Jack Daniel's whiskeys enter the barrel at 140 proof -- not Old No. 7. It meets bourbon's 40% ABV requirement, even as other whiskeys in the company's repertoire (such as Jack Daniel's Single Barrel at 47% ABV) do not. Jack Daniel's isn't bourbon, but not because it would be technically incorrect to call it bourbon or because it doesn't adhere to the federal regulations that determine what bourbon is. Ultimately, it might be the most accurate to say that Old No. 7 is a Tennessee Whiskey that meets every legal requirement to be bourbon and call it a day. Read the original article on Tasting Table. On Monday, February 5th, the waves were massive in Hawaii. It was so big, in fact, that the World Surf League controversially called off competition at the 2024 kickoff event, the Pipe Pro. There were more factors at play than just the size swell direction, quantity of contestable waves, timing, etc. but some of the harder-charging CT surfers and carnage-loving surf fans were not happy with the call. Regardless, some CT surfers still charged Pipe on Massive Monday, sans jersey, in addition to other North Shore waves that werent completely maxed out. And musician/North Shore native/banana pancake aficionado Jack Johnson was in the mix. Down the Seven Mile Miracle stretch of sand from Pipe, Sunset Beach was showing its teeth, and a handful of surfers (Johnson included) gave it a go. From photographer Bobby Owens: I shot this photo of Kauai a few months back from where I live high on Pupukea. Its not hard at to see why west swells here on the North Shore below 295 degrees can get blocked by the island. Related: Waves Too Big, World Surf League Calls Off Pipe Pro That definitely was not the case on Monday when a solid mid period WNW filled in resulting in one of the most epic days at Sunset Ive seen in a long time. The trade winds finally returned and were gusting past 25 mph and at times made it seem impossible to paddle into the jacking peaks. Only a handful of surfers were committed to catching the huge outside sets marching their way across the channel from the west. The rest of the crew, which included some competitors warming up for the contest, caught the smaller in between sets further inside. There definitely were some Hero waves ridden that day. Born and raised on the North Shore of Oahu, Jack Johnson was a surfer before he became one of the biggest names in soft rock, acoustic music. He was there with the Momentum Generation, a crew of hungry young surfers looking to push themselves in heavy Hawaiian surf in the 90s, including Kelly Slater, Rob Machado, Taylor Knox, et al. And, by the looks of this hefty Sunset wave above, Johnsons still got it. *** Don't miss another headline from SURFER! Subscribe to our newsletter, follow us on Instagram, and stay connected with the latest happenings in the world of surfing. We're always on the lookout for amusing, interesting and engaging surf-related videos to feature on our channels. Whether you're a professional surfer or just an amateur, we want to see your best footage and help you share it with the world. Submit your video for a chance to be featured on SURFER and our social channels. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch high-quality surf videos. La Dolce Vita is a cozy Beverly Hills restaurant that has withstood the test of time by serving up hearty plates of Italian fare and keeping glasses filled. The establishment has ushered in a lineup of royalty, celebrities, and politicians, yet if it weren't for the financial backing of Frank Sinatra and George Raft, the sweet joint may never have found its wings. As told to Spectrum News, the original owners of La Dolce Vita were two waiters, and while they didn't necessarily have the money to float their enterprise, they had plenty of spirit -- and spirits. In 1966, when La Dolce Vita opened, the Grammy-winning blue-eyed crooner had cemented a reputation as a tuxedo-wearing reveler. He fit the scene at La Dolce Vita, as eating and enjoying life found center stage. Sinatra was pleased to help get the establishment off the ground and held regular court in a booth that is to this day marked with a golden plaque bearing his name. Read more: 13 Unexpected Ingredients To Elevate Lasagna Preserving History For Modern Diners bar at La Dolce Vita - Instagram/Victoria Gillet The windowless restaurant (a perk for those avoiding paparazzi cameras) has remained true to its founding vision and has preserved the red leather booths and exposed brick walls that have welcomed old Hollywood stars and Washington families. Menus have remained dependable, and though some aesthetic touches have changed, the establishment has remained largely the same with an eager staff ready to please. In its decades-long existence, La Dolce Vita has only changed managerial hands three times. The current owners have brought a few new details to the space with staff uniforms, new recipes, and noticeable aesthetic upgrades. Though the restaurant was forced to close during the pandemic, a refreshed food and drink menu has ushered in its revival. Classic Lasagna Bolognese served with sauteed spinach and ricotta is a reliable order, and New York strip steaks topped with red wine glaze address even the most demanding appetites. Though the space is compact -- only seven bar seats and 70 chairs are available -- the atmosphere is textured with relics. Movie buffs may spot playful nods to films like "The Godfather." For added drama, guests are welcomed into the restaurant with Punt e Mes, and after dinner is served, a large grinder is brought to tables to add freshly cracked pepper to plates. A Luxurious Setting Honoring Yesteryear interior of La Dolce Vita - Instagram/Victoria Gillet For those wanting to finish off their meal with a true taste of Italy, a generous amaro menu offers plenty to choose from, or the housemade limoncello can freshen palates before additional drinks are poured and dessert is served. Because this is truly the sweet life, tiramisu and vanilla panna cotta make frequent appearances on the linen-covered dining tables, and chocolate tarts and Tartufo are quick to silence any demanding sweet tooth. For late-night revelers, the cocktail list honors a few of the Hollywood faces who once graced the premises try The Sinatra Sour, a whiskey sour made with Sinatra's beloved Jack Daniels; or sip on The Doheny & Beverly, a vodka, gin, sherry, and Cointreau concoction that is made with Dean Martin in mind. In such a sumptuous setting, it is easy to see how regular civilians and stars alike come to soak up a part of a glamorous star-studded story. Read the original article on Tasting Table. PARIS The LVMH Prize for Young Designers has revealed the 20 semifinalists of its 11th edition, which saw more than 2,500 applicants a record number of entries vying for a bumper 800,000 euros in prize money. The chosen candidates hail from 18 countries, including for the first time Mexico, Moldavia and Togo. After a 2023 edition dominated by genderless designs, no fewer than nine of the 2024 semifinalists create womenswear, with another four designing for women and men. More from WWD Once more this year, Im delighted to welcome so many talented young designers, and Id like to express my warmest gratitude to all the designers from all over the world who took part. This years edition is remarkable for the unique distinctive designs and for the return of sophisticated womenswear collections, said Delphine Arnault, the force behind the prize and a key talent scout at LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton. The semifinalists are to gather at a showroom on Feb. 29 and March 1 during Paris Fashion Week to present their collections to the press and to the prizes committee of experts, who will vote to select eight finalists. I am very grateful to all the experts who contribute each year to making the LVMH Prize a benchmark for young designers. All this promises an exceptional 2024 edition, Arnault said. Once again, the general public will be invited to discover the designers and vote for their favorite collection online. The overall winner receives a grand prize of 400,000 euros and mentorship by LVMH teams in such areas as sustainable development, communication, copyright and corporate legal aspects, marketing, manufacturing and the financial management of a brand. The winner of the runner-up Karl Lagerfeld Prize walks away with a 200,000-euro endowment and also enjoys a one-year mentorship. A new award, the Savoir-Faire Prize, will come with a grant of 200,000 euros and a one-year mentorship. Aimed at promoting the transmission of skills, it will distinguish a young brand for excellence in craftmanship, innovation in design and production, and its commitment to sustainability, organizers said. Many of these brands place research and high aesthetic standards at the heart of their approach, values that are also championed by the new Savoir-Faire Prize. This prize underlines the importance of craftsmanship, innovation and sustainability, three topics at the heart of the fashion and luxury industry commitments today, Arnault said. The 20 semifinalists for the 2024 LVMH Prize for Young Designers. The worlds largest luxury group announced last year it would open a dedicated space for craftsmanship in Paris. Set to open in 2025, the Maison des Metiers dExcellence will allow visitors to discover some of the 280 skilled trades represented across its 75 brands, which range from Louis Vuitton to Tiffany & Co. and Sephora. It will also provide a physical home for LVMHs vocational training initiatives, in a move calculated to give the group a competitive edge amid a shortage of skilled workers. The LVMH Prize is open to fashion designers from all over the world aged between 18 and 40 who have created at least two womenswear, menswear or genderless ready-to-wear collections. The annual contest has helped propel the careers of such talents as Marine Serre, Nensi Dojaka, Thebe Magugu, Simon Porte Jacquemus and Grace Wales Bonner. Last years winner was Setchu by Satoshi Kuwata, a designer who has worked for everyone from a Savile Row tailor to luxury sneakers brand Golden Goose. The 2024 LVMH Prize also distinguishes three fashion school graduates. Each will receive 10,000 euros and join the design studio of a house within LVMH, whose fashion brands also include Dior, Celine, Givenchy, Fendi, Loewe and Marc Jacobs. Online applications for the student prizes remain open until March 17. Below is a complete list of the designer semifinalists for the LVMH Prize: Womenswear and menswear Agbobly by Jacques Agbobly, Togo Duran Lantink, Netherlands (also genderless) Paolo Carzana, U.K. Who Decides War by Everard Best and Tela DAmore Best, U.S. Womenswear Elena Velez, U.S. Fidan Novruzova, Moldavia Hodakova by Ellen Hodakova Larsson, Sweden Karoline Vitto, Brazil Marie Adam-Leenaerdt, Belgium Pauline Dujancourt, France Standing Ground by Michael Stewart, Ireland Vautrait by Yonathan Carmel, Israel Ya Yi by Yayi Chen Zhou, Spain Menswear Aubero by Julian Louie, U.S. Campillo by Patricio Campillo, Mexico Jiyongkim by Jiyong Kim, South Korea Khoki by Koki Abe, Japan Genderless Chiahung Su by Chia Hung Su, Taiwan Niccolo Pasqualetti, Italy Ponder.er by Derek Cheng and Alex Po, China Best of WWD A massive hydrogen reservoir may be lurking deep beneath a chromium mine in Albania, a new study has found. The reservoir sits within a portion of Earth's crust and mantle that once lay at the bottom of the ocean and was scraped off when the tectonic plate it rode on slid beneath another plate. The crumpled slab of crust and mantle was thrust onto land between 45 million and 15 million years ago and formed a 1,900-mile-long (3,000 kilometers) rocky belt, known as an ophiolite, that extends from present-day Turkey to Slovenia. Ophiolites exist worldwide, and research has previously documented hydrogen gas leaking from boreholes and mines drilled into these formations. In the new study, scientists discovered the reservoir thanks to huge clouds of hydrogen gas wafting from pools of water inside the Bulqize mine, which is located 25 miles (40 km) northeast of Tirana, Albania. Such hydrogen reservoirs could be tapped to provide carbon-free fuel, but the deep infrastructure needed to do so is lacking and the gas is inherently difficult to extract. Related: Will the drive for EVs destroy Earth's last untouched ecosystem? "We have seen plenty of hyper alkaline springs hosted in ophiolites worldwide where hydrogen is bubbling [out]," lead study author Laurent Truche , a professor of geochemistry at Grenoble Alpes University in France, told Live Science in an email. But "what we have observed deep in the mine is another dimension," Truche said, and "turns a draining pool inside a mine gallery into a breathtaking 30-square-meter [323 square feet] jacuzzi bubbling with almost pure hydrogen." Truche and his colleagues explored the deepest levels of the Bulqize chromium mine and recorded extreme quantities of hydrogen gas leaking from the rocks and bubbling through pools of water. Their measurements suggest that at least 220 tons (200 metric tons) of high-quality hydrogen escape from the mine every year, which is one of the largest natural hydrogen flow rates documented to date. A dark tunnel in the Bulqize chromium mine in Albania. Hydrogen is a highly flammable gas. The high concentrations measured inside the Bulqize mine are thought to have sparked three explosions since 2011, killing four miners and injuring many more. "Our study will help to understand the phenomenon and to improve safety," Truche said. The discovery also sheds light on the geological conditions that seal large reserves of natural hydrogen underground. Hydrogen venting from the Bulqize mine likely accumulated in tectonic fractures between two blocks of rock deep within the ophiolite, according to the new study, which was published Thursday (Feb. 8) in the journal Science . This fault zone is estimated to be 33 feet (10 meters) wide, up to 3,300 feet (1,000 m) long and up to 16,400 feet (5,000 m) deep, and it "can easily be observed in the deepest mine galleries," between 1,640 feet (500 m) and 3,300 feet deep, Truche said. RELATED STORIES Wind and solar power overtake coal for the first time ever in the US Strange methane leak discovered at the deepest point of the Baltic Sea, baffling scientists Water leaking into Earth's core may have birthed a mysterious layer that churns out crystals "We still don't know how this fault is sealed, but it has no visible footprint at the surface," he added. As much as 55,000 tons (50,000 metric tons) of hydrogen could lurk in the reservoir beneath the mine enough to sustain the high flow rate for 238 years, according to the study. Deposits of natural hydrogen are a promising source of carbon-free energy if they are extractable and sufficiently large. "What sets our discovery apart is the large flux of almost pure [hydrogen] gas we have observed," the authors wrote in the study. "In the context of energy transition, our findings could substantially affect the ongoing search for new energy resources." A Montana game farm owner is in a world of trouble after federal investigators busted up his yearslong, multi-state wild sheep cloning, breeding, and trafficking ring that involved test tube embryos, straws of semen, falsified veterinary certificates, and tens of thousands of dollars changing hands. Arthur Jack Schubarth of Vaughn, Montana entered a plea agreement in Montana District Court in Great Falls on Monday, in which he pled guilty to one felony count of Lacey Act trafficking and one felony count of conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act. The charges stem from a nine-year stint that began in January 2013, when Schubarth hired an unnamed third party to store tissues from a Marco Polo sheep (an Argali subspecies) that he acquired from an illegally imported, hunter-harvested carcass from Kyrgyzstan. He then paid someone to use DNA from that tissue to clone more sheep. That cloning attempt, which Schubarth forked over $4,200 for, provided him with 165 Marco Polo sheep embryos, one of which would later become the Montana Mountain King ram whose semen Schubarth started harvesting in 2018. Thus began the Dr. Frankenstein-esque interstate exchange of sheep semen, artificially inseminated argali and ewes, and hybridized offspring. This trafficking ring went on for two years, violating the Lacey Act with every state border crossing. In 2020, traffickers started acquiring falsified veterinary certificates from state livestock boards for easier transport. They claimed their illegally hybridized sheep were actually New Mexico Dahl sheep, bighorn sheep, and domestic sheep. Marco Polo sheep are the largest wild sheep species in the world. Theyre also known as Pamir argali, due to their native range in the Pamir Mountains of Tajikistan, Afghanistan, China, and Kyrgyzstan. Marco Polo sheep are classified as Near-Threatened by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources and as an Appendix II species under the Convention on the International Trade of Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES). This means their international trade is under strict control and requires permits from their range nations. They are considered an illegal species in Montana under state law. Five additional culprits are identified in the charging documents as Person A through Person E, three from Texas, one from Minnesota, and one from Montana. All five were involved in the alternative livestock husbandry industry. Read Next: Poachers Posed as Photographers, Hikers in Elaborate Scheme to Kill Big Urban Bucks Maximum penalties for each charge would be five years in prison with three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine, according to court documents. But the plea agreement would instead ensure that Schubarths sentence is less serious, and would involve a fine paid to the Lacey Act Reward Fund and a community service payment to the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. A clarification was made on Feb. 9, 2024: A previous version of this article classified Marco Polo argali sheep as threatened in both the headline and the body of the article. Both have been updated to reflect a more accurate assessment of the species global conservation status. View comments I pulled up to an obscure two-track on the side of a dirt road years ago while turkey hunting in Wyomings Black Hills. A tangled barbed wire fence stretched across the road with a sign saying, POSTED No Trespassing. There should have been a sliver of public land I could shimmy through, attached to a bigger stretch of public, but my paper map was characteristically vague. I fired up a handheld GPS with a chip made by a relatively new company called onX, and it confirmed what I thought I knew: That barbed wire fence and sign were closer to the road than they should have been. Someone was snagging just a little extra property for themselves and cutting off access to a big chunk of public land in the process. Most hunters and anglers have similar stories about digital maps uncovering access. Few technologies have revolutionized hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation access more than the ability to see precisely where we are in relation to land ownership boundaries in real time. Now digital maps also allow us to identify burn areas or habitat treatments, view draw odds, and even connect to cellular trail cameras. But the GPS revolution has had growing pains. Some onX users wonder where all that data is stored, if were being tracked in the most remote spaces in the country, and if our waypoints could one day be sold. Biologists worry that more access puts more people in the last spaces where wildlife seek refuge from us, and hunters and anglers complain that novices can now find the same secret spots that they had worked for years to unlock. With change comes some people who are winners and some people who are losers, says Randy Newberg, the Montana hunting advocate and TV personality who has been sponsored by both onX and GoHunt. They can say, some people know about this, now they know my spot. Well, the net of it all is that we as a community are winners based on the premise of having these maps on our phones. As mapping companies become more sophisticated, hunters, hikers, biologists, and nonprofits weigh in on the pros, cons, and future of the onX effect. onX Origins Like most innovators, Eric Siegfried founded onX because he needed something. He had moved to Missoula, Montana, in 2007, only months after Apple released its first smartphone. In those days he waited in lines at U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management offices to collect big paper maps. Then hed try to parse what he saw on the maps with what he found in the woods. You had Garmin GPS information but not landowner information, he says. I wanted it on my GPS. So in 2009, he used his computer software skills to build a chip that would fit into a users handheld GPS device that not only showed where the person was, but who owned the land in and around that spot. Eventually, onX evolved from a chip to an app and its now a multi-million-dollar operation with about 400 employees, three separate programs (onX Hunt, onX Offroad, and onX Backcountry), and millions of users (the private company wont disclose exact user numbers). In October, the company announced $87.4 million in Series B funding, a wonky term for a second round of investments. The investment comes from Summit Partners, a firm that has invested in a wide variety of technology companies around the world. Its the same investment group that provided onXs first round of money in 2018. Although onX is still the biggest player in the outdoor GPS game, its far from the only one. Companies like GoHunt, HuntWise, BaseMap, HuntStand, GAIA GPS, and Spartan Forge help users plan hunts (as well as hikes, fishing trips, backpacking treks, and anything else they want to do outside, depending on the app), as they try to distinguish themselves from onX and each other. Like smart phones themselves, these apps have become such integral parts of our lives that even users with big questions about the security of the apps and the effects of their use are reluctant to give them up. Who Sees Where You Hunt? The four hunters from Missouri used a ladder to climb over a corner while hunting in Wyoming. By going from one piece of public land to another they triggered a series of lawsuits and discussions about corner crossing in the West. onX became integral to the discussion. Right: The private ranch set these posts, which were chained together, to discourage corner crossing. District Court of Wyoming Heres what onX wants to make really clear right now: The company isnt monitoring your location in real time. When you have tracking turned on, however, your GPS coordinates are being saved on onX servers. The company gets asked about this a lot. Land Tawney understands why. The Montana hunter and former CEO of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers uses onX as much as the next hunter. He sits with it at home looking at new spots, downloads maps so he can use them when hes in the woods and without service, and fires up the app anytime hes in new country. Then last fall, he found a piece of tribal land newly opened to the public near an area hed been hunting for 20 years. He went to mark it in onX so hed remember where it was for next time, but then he didnt. On some level, I just didnt want other people to know about it, and maybe thats even someone grabbing my phone while were looking at onX, he says. I found it because of the app, and anyone else could find it. But still. In some ways these privacy concerns are unwarranted after all, how valuable is a single users data when every onX user gets to see the same maps in the first place? In other ways, however, privacy concerns around digital apps use are totally warranted. Thats because the data points just like the contents of your Gmail, TikTok, Instagram and Facebook arent completely private. Companies are not legally bound by the Constitutions Fourth Amendment to keep information you share with them a secret, says Ryan Semerad, an attorney with the Fuller & Semerad Law Firm in Casper, Wyoming, who was recently involved in the controversial corner-crossing case. By signing up with onX or other GPS location services, Gmail, and many social media sites, youre implicitly giving those companies permission to look at your private information. One consequence here is that those data points (or waypoints) can be handed over to law enforcement and then, if part of a trial, become public. Four Missouri hunters represented by Semerad got to learn just how that process works. They became famous in 2021 after using onX to pinpoint the exact spot where two corners of public land touched on a sagebrush-covered hillside in southeast Wyoming. They used a ladder to cross from one public square to another, killed elk and deer, and used the same ladder to pack out the meat. Three years, one trespass trial (where the hunters were found not guilty), one civil trial against the hunters (which a judge dismissed), and even more appeals later, the case has become the poster child for what GPS mapping can achieve. But after the courts forced onX to produce evidence of where the men had walked, attorneys spent weeks bickering over a point one hunter made on his onX that was later named Waypoint 6. The landowners attorney said Waypoint 6, a spot marked on private land, proved the hunters had, indeed, trespassed. The hunters attorney said the point proved only that the hunter pressed a spot on a map with his finger evidence of how we all fat-finger our phones not proof of criminality. The hunter himself, Zach Smith, told Outdoor Life recently that he has no idea how the point got on his onX, only that he may have created it while using the phone with gloves on, or in the snow or rain, and erroneously hit a location, not because he was actually in that spot. Regardless, the incident shined a bright spotlight on the fact that the data we store in onX is not truly private. As elk hunting in the West continues to grow more competitive, having access to prime public land is key. John Hafner While onX officials acknowledge they do have to comply with court-ordered subpoenas, they say the only other way they give out information to anyone other than the individual user is through missing persons cases. In these situations, the location data could help in a rescue or recovery, says Zach Sandau, onXs hunt marketing manager. Semerad, the attorney, doesnt use onX because he doesnt hunt or fish. But he considers onX and its feared risks to be similar to the rest of the technology we carry around. Its a modern cost-benefit analysis. Its so freaking useful. Are we really going to give up the usefulness for the concern? Semerad says. I think its been shown time and time again, no matter how many times lawyers and leaders and politicians talk about how unsecure Facebook, Instagram, and onX are, people dont care. We know theyre harvesting our information, and were not stopping using it. But could all the data were putting down in onX be aggregated and sold? Say, for example, an aggregation of all the turkey roost tree waypoints on public lands. Could onX compile that data, display it as a turkey roost heat map and then sell it to users who are willing to pay a much higher premium? onX says no. We consider user markups (like waypoints) to be personal content, and thus owned by each customer, the companys senior communications manager Molly Stoecklein wrote in an email after checking with onXs legal team. Our license to use that personal content is limited to activities in connection with the Service (for example, analyzing how customers use our app to improve the app with a more intuitive experience). But could they batch that information and sell it anonymously to advertisers, by considering advertisers in connection with the Service? Again, onX says no. The companys answers are all based on their user agreements, the ones we all sign to create an account. Could those agreements change? Sure, Semerad says, but not without asking us to sign another legal agreement, which most of us wont read anyway. He also notes that hes less concerned with a company like onX selling data and working around the shady fringes of privacy because, unlike a free site like Facebook, Gmail, or TikTok, onX is beholden to its subscribers. onX needs to make subscribers happy, Semerad says. Facebook needs to make advertisers happy. In the free social media world, were grist for the mill. Does Better Access Mean More Pressure? In some ways, mapping apps have leveled the access playing field. John Hafner For most of the past century or so, reigning public opinion said more people outside meant more awareness of outdoor issues, which meant more advocates for the outdoors. The idea wasnt unfounded, and most conservation and environmental nonprofits champion getting people outside and experiencing nature. Not only is it good critical even for our own health and well-being, but as Tawney says: The only way that people will care in 100 years from now is because they got out there and touched and felt it. However a growing body of research shows our presence in the backcountry, where wildlife is pinched into even tighter spaces, is taking its toll. Skiers push a bighorn sheep herd in Wyomings Tetons to the brink; runners, hikers, and bikers likely caused a crash in elk numbers near Vail, Colorado; lookie-loos in Montana and Wyoming bump grizzly bears off moth sites. And digital maps make it all that much easier for more people to go farther and deeper than ever before. I think there still would have been more people in the woods, but they wouldnt have known everywhere to go, says Bill Andree, a retired biologist who studied the Vail elk herd during his time with Colorado Parks and Wildlife. But is it 2 percent or 20 percent? I have no data. Add in social media and the issue becomes worse. Now a barely-used trail thats easy to find on a digital map, leading to a little-used spot in the woods may be shared far and wide on the internet, says Aly Courtemanch, a Wyoming Game and Fish biologist in the Jackson region. It is enabling people to discover new places they want to go, she says, but also these areas that may have had virtually no human presence will [now] become popular. Is that an inherently bad thing? No, she says, but we do need to be more aware of our impact on wildlife. For Siegfried, the founder of onX, the problem isnt digital maps, its a management issue. If agencies feel that too many people in one spot are taking a toll on wildlife, then those agencies should create restrictions to alleviate the pressure. And companies can help build awareness for those rules, adds Stoecklein. For example, onX now includes bighorn sheep layers in the Tetons so skiers know exactly which areas are off limits. Is the Secret Spot Dead? Technology has shined a light on some spots that have previously gone mostly unnoticed. John Hafner Spend a little time scrolling online forums, and youll think mapping apps are ruining hunting nationwide by breeding lazy hunters who dont need to put in the same legwork as their fathers or grandfathers. Instead of calling fish and wildlife management agencies in each region in each state, and talking with forest service rangers, and tracking wildfires, and keeping in touch with county clerks, all that information is updated regularly on an app on your phone. Even many state agencies are sending land ownership changes and other critical hunt information periodically to companies like onX. But handheld GPS mapping hasnt made hunters lazy, Newberg says. Its just flattened the learning curve. I know every range con at the BLM and forestry guy at the Forest Service and built relationships with them before the digital map. Was that fair? The people who say it isnt fair are the ones who had the inside track before, he says. Newberg and Tawney both see mapping apps as equalizers as ways to help more people get outside and hunt. GoHunts tag information particularly rankles people who used to know that, say, a certain Nevada mule deer hunt area never had many applicants and as a result they could draw a tag more often. But even before the apps, companies were compiling that information for a fee. The apps just make it easier to find and available to those with smaller bank accounts. Newberg says that the real reason for the drop in application success is that there are generally fewer animals on the landscape. When I started doing this, Wyoming had about 650,000 pronghorn, now its bordering around 300,000. Im a CPA and pretty good with numbers, and I know when you have 650,000 animals, the number of tags will be way better than when you have 300,000, he says. Thats hard work to turn around. Thats conservation and habitat. We need to build a bigger pie. Have the half-dozen or so GPS mapping companies cut down the chance for someone to have a public-land secret spot? Maybe, Newberg says, but public-land secret spots are an oxymoron to begin with. They come and go over the years. And if nothing else, he figures mapping apps have opened even more possible honey holes by revealing with pinpoint precision those places we can shimmy through and around. Read Next: 7 Sneaky Ways Landowners Block Access to Public Lands People will say I view [mapping apps] as a positive because I am sponsored by them, he says, referring to his current partnership with GoHunt. But when I am too old and crusty to be sponsored the way I am, I will still use digital maps. onX says it plans to continue partnering with nonprofits like Pheasants Forever and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation to open landlocked public land to hunting, particularly in the West where about 16.43 million acres of public land across 22 states remains inaccessible. In December, the company announced it had provided grants that improved access to more than 150,000 acres and built or restored 255 miles of trails. Maps for the Masses onX now offers a wide variety of features, including a 3D view. onX Heres one thing we know for certain: Digital mapping apps arent going away. More companies mean more competition, which creates even quicker evolution. And each app is working to set itself apart with more comprehensive, detailed data. onX will almost certainly use its recent investment to continue expanding beyond the hunting world. The companys current CEO, Laura Orvidas, would not dive into details about whats next for onX, but she did write in an email to Outdoor Life that: Were looking to inspire new types of recreation with a new product later this year. Despite data privacy concerns, users will keep subscribing simply because we have to. After using onX, there is no going back. As a prime example, even after all the charges and legal trials, those four Missouri hunters who corner crossed in Wyoming still use onX and still love it. I believe the onX technology is one of the greatest tools for the outdoor community. We most likely could not have done what we did without it, writes Missouri hunter Brad Cape in an email to Outdoor Life. Im not concerned with the information they store. Almost every organization out there is storing personal information. View comments This week I had a very nice time attending the annual fundraising gala for the National Youth Theatre, which filled the Roundhouse in Chalk Farm. A big glitzy dinner (guinea fowl, if youre interested) attended by the likes of Zawe Ashton, Susan Wokoma, Denise Gough, Bush Theatre Artistic Director Lynette Linton and the organisations royal patron the Duke of Edinburgh, featured both a silent and a very noisy auction, of everything from theatre tickets to a three-night stay in a private villa, led by Sothebys Chairman Harry Dalmeny and his tartan trousers. There were appearances by NYT alumni such as Gangs of London and Slow Horses star Sope Dirisu, comedian Joel Dommett and Sophie Ellis Bextor, who sang, yes, Murder on the Dancefloor, to general ecstasy among the guests. The goodwill in the room (and the money they raised somewhere in the region of 400K), was palpable, even if the acoustics arent great for dinner chat. But everyone there knew just how crucial the NYTs amazing work is, now more than ever. In the last year alone, it has reached audiences of 10,000 in person, and 10 million online. It has engaged around 10,000 young creative people with meaningful opportunities to make art, employed over 450 freelance creatives, and provided 800k+ worth of bursaries and social inclusion opportunities. Over the last ten years, 175 young people have received free training through the NYT REP Company, at an equivalent drama school cost of 1.3m. 95 per cent of REP graduates have gone on to work professionally in the creative industries, while around 40,000 school pupils have been able to watch NYT REP Company productions with cheap tickets. And last year it launched the IGNITE Your Creativity scheme with Netflix, a programme giving more than 1,000 young people aged between 14 and 25 the opportunity to build networks and explore the wide range of behind the scenes careers in film, TV and theatre. Sope Dirisu and Dominique Tipper (Dave Benett) The list of illustrious alumni speaks for itself, with Derek Jacobi, Rosamund Pike, Rafe Spall, Daisy Edgar-Jones, Dirisu, Matt Smith, Helen Mirren and Paapa Essiedu among the actors alone. Celebrated playwright James Graham was given his first paid play commission, Tory Boyz, by the NYT. Smith says it completely transformed his life, Jacobi called it my first experience of how strangers can become family very quickly in the theatre. Dirisu simply says, I wouldnt be where I am without the National Youth Theatre. Mirren, though, is sharper. The National Youth Theatre is more important than ever because the way my business is going, it's the prerogative only of kids who have got money, she says. And theres the rub. In his otherwise celebratory speech on the night, and in a conversation with me the next day, Paul Roseby OBE, who has led the organisation for over 15 years, painted a dire picture of the landscape in which the NYT now operates. Things now are worse than they were in the mid-Eighties, he tells me. Then, schools had the time and space to value the art form. However beautifully amateurish that was, it was treasured. Now, with the decimation of the arts in state schools, relationships fundamental to getting kids who dont even know they have talent into the NYT rooms are rapidly diminishing. As a result, talented and brilliant state school kids are missing out on the opportunity to find out how transformative theatre can be. Not just those who might become the Essiedus or Edgar-Joneses of the future, but those who might end up running their own business, or smiling on the till at Tesco, equipped in their daily life with the confidence, courage and creativity that are awakened by being part of making art. Thats as important as creating the movie stars of the future; the NYT works with a wide range of people, some of whom have complex needs and all of whom are growing up in a time of deep anxiety. The organisation is spending more, says Roseby, on pastoral care and mental wellbeing than it could ever have imagined. Art and the making of it is a proven, effective part of the social care infrastructure, with long-standing positive effects that reach far beyond the edge of the stage and into peoples lives. but the people who hold the purse strings seem to have their fingers in their ears. The dependence now on philanthropy is more than ever, without any of the cultural impetus for that or the tax breaks that make it such an attractive option for rich donors in the US. Harry Dalmeny led the fundraising auction (Dave Benett) The crisis is biting from all angles. Theatres celebrated for their support of new writing, such as the Hampstead and the Royal Court, are floundering, while the Young Vics director, Kwame Kwei Armah, announced his departure this week, citing atrophied funding as one of the core challenges. The mismanaged levelling up agenda means that now, even national arts organisations are at the mercy of a weird postcode lottery. The NYT, which does 70 per cent of its work outside London, is , says Roseby, penalised for having our headquarters in London N7, which, by the way, has the fourth highest rate of child poverty in the country. But we cannot access any more funding, despite being a national organisation, because we are based in London. We are cornered. Oh yes, I know were all supposed to be so grateful. Rishi Sunak pulled the Culture Recovery Fund seemingly out of his pristine backside during the pandemic, genuinely saving many organisations from sudden death. But how long are those organisations, now facing the imminent repayment of the loans, reeling from more recent funding cuts, running just to stand still, meant to cringe in gratitude, clutching their caps and saying thank you while they starve to death? Even those whose funding has remained at a standstill, in real terms, have been cut. Production costs have risen by 20 per cent in a year. Its a very cold place to be. Roseby puts it plainly: The theatre ecosystem is completely broken. If we want a multiplicity of stories, told by many different people from all walks of life, its almost too late. nyt.org.uk/donate A Lincoln man pleaded no contest to second-degree murder Thursday for grabbing a gun from his center console and shooting a man to death in response to a fender bender. The two the shooter, Karsen Rezac, and the victim, Kupo Mleya lived a block apart on Washington Street but didnt know each other. To that charge, sir, how do you plead? Lancaster County District Judge Lori Maret asked Rezac. I plead no contest, he answered. In exchange, Chief Deputy Lancaster County Attorney Chris Turner dropped a felony weapons charge as part of a plea agreement. Rezac, 24, now will face a sentence of at least 20 years and up to life in prison at his sentencing in March. In court, Turner said Lincoln police were called to South 20th and Washington streets at 12:20 a.m. Dec. 23, 2022, on reports of the sound of a crash, then several gunshots. Officers found Mleya, still in the drivers seat, with gunshot wounds to his head, his Jeep Patriot riddled with bullet holes and the drivers window shattered. The 38-year-old Lincoln man died at the scene. Turner said witnesses reported seeing a light-colored SUV leaving the scene immediately afterward, and investigators quickly developed Rezac as a potential suspect. Not only did Rezac live near where the shooting happened, but he also was the registered owner of a white GMC Yukon SUV, which police found parked nearby with damage to its passenger side and a window consistent with the debris at the scene and gunshots, the prosecutor said. A search of the SUV turned up nine spent casings and a 9mm Glock handgun in the center console. When investigators interviewed Rezac the next day, he told police he was backing out of his driveway when the Jeep slammed into him. The defendant stated he had a 9mm handgun in the center console and that he freaked out, Turner said. Rezac told police he fired toward the other driver before driving away, leaving his SUV a few blocks away, and walking back to his apartment. He said Rezac acknowledged officers still were on the scene, but said he was too scared to contact them. Mleya, a native of Zimbabwe, emigrated to the U.S. to attend school and had worked at the Lincoln bike shop Cycle Works, at Frontier Harley-Davidson and as a groundskeeper at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he was a student in the late 2010s. Remembering Lincoln's homicide victims of 2023 1. Julian A. Martinez 2. Rudy Requejo Jr. 3. Ronald Gonzalez Rivas 4. Christopher Karmazin 5. Damien Brave 6. Mark Kruger 7. James Baylor "Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." As Prince William steps up his royal responsibilities in the absence of King Charles III and Princess Catherinewho have both faced separate medical concerns over the past few weeks, he is making sure to keep his loved ones in his thoughts. On February 7, the Prince of Wales attended a dinner for the London Air Ambulance Charity Galaa cause he has a special connection to, having worked as a pilot for the East Anglian Air Ambulance service from March 2015 to July 2017. In a speech at the event, William paid tribute to the king, whose cancer diagnosis was announced earlier this week, and his wife, who is recovering from abdominal surgery. Id like to take this opportunity to say thank you, also, for the kind messages of support for Catherine and for my father, especially in recent days. It means a great deal to us all, William began. He then jokingly added, Its fair to say the past few weeks have had a rather medical focus. So I thought Id come to an air ambulance function to get away from it all! Daniel Leal A reminder that Charles cancer was identified during a recent procedure he underwent to treat a benign enlarged prostate. Harper's Bazaar understands that the condition is not prostate cancer, although Buckingham Palace has thus far refrained from specifying the monarchs diagnosis. As for the Princess of Wales, Kate has returned home to Windsor following a scheduled abdominal surgery on January 16. The Princess is in good spirits, a royal source told Harper's Bazaar when she was discharged from the hospital. She is not expected to return to royal duties until after March. Elsewhere in Williams speech, the royal paid tribute to another famous face among the guests: Tom Cruise. Tom, if you wouldn't mind not borrowing either of the new helicopters for the next Mission: Impossible, it would be appreciated, the prince joked. We have all seen on our screens thathow can I put it?you seem to have a different take on normal wear and tear to the rest of us. Its not the kind that buffs out. WPA Pool - Getty Images Read Williams full speech below. Good evening, everyone. Thank you all for being here. And thank you to those whose hard work has made this evening possible. Id like to take this opportunity to say thank you, also, for the kind messages of support for Catherine and for my father, especially in recent days. It means a great deal to us all. Its fair to say the past few weeks have had a rather medical focus. So I thought Id come to an air ambulance function to get away from it all! But, seriously, we gather tonight to help as many people as possible benefit from top-class care in the silhouette of London Air Ambulances flying lifelines. As a former pilot for East Anglian Air Ambulance, I know just how vital the work of air ambulance teams across the country is, and the truly lifesaving difference it can make to deliver urgent medical care wherever injury strikes. Here in London, the current aircraft have served magnificently. But our capital city needs a new fleet. And we are up against time. The clue really is in the appeals name. By September, we need the two new red birdsdecked with the latest kit, such as night visionin our skies. You wouldnt be here if you needed much persuading, I know. But just wait to hear Milanas story later of how the air ambulance, and its incredible teams, have given her a second chance at life. I should also take this opportunity to give a mention to myourfellow pilot, Tom Cruise. Tom, huge thanks for supporting us tonight. And Tom, if you wouldn't mind not borrowing either of the new helicopters for the next Mission: Impossible, it would be appreciated. We have all seen on our screens thathow can I put it?you seem to have a different take on normal wear and tear to the rest of us. Its not the kind that buffs out. Anyway, an enormous thank you to all for being here tonight and for supporting such a wonderful cause. You are all, each and every one of you, lifesavers. You Might Also Like The location for Prince William's Earthshot Prize 2024 awards ceremony has been announced: The environmental event is headed to Cape Town, South Africa! The awards ceremony, and a week of events, will take place in November. No specific dates have been announced, and there's no indication yet if Prince William or Kate Middleton will be in attendance. (At last year's Earthshot in Singapore, Prince William went solo, as Kate stayed back in the UK to support Prince George during his exams.) The last major visit to Cape Town by members of the British royal family was when Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, and baby Archie went in September 2019. According to the announcement, for five days in South Africa this fall, "The Earthshot Prize will celebrate the groundbreaking work of fifteen global environmental solutions and convene leading innovators, Earthshot Alumni, partners, investors and philanthropists for inspiring conversations and action on catalysing solutions to protect and restore our planet." Fifteen finalists will be announced ahead of the week, and five winners will be awarded during the awards ceremony. "This is the Earthshot Decade, a decade in which we must, by 2030, reduce CO2 emissions by over 40 percent, and protect 30 percent of nature, oceans, and freshwater," Hannah Jones, CEO of The Earthshot Prize said in a statement. "The nominations to The Earthshot Prize remind us that human ingenuity, grit and determination can turn the seemingly impossible into the new normal. Were delighted to be working with changemakers and partners across Africa to spotlight the incredible innovation emerging across the continent." We'll update this as we learn more about the 2024 Earthshot Prize. You Might Also Like It was a year of insurrection. In the streets of Paris and on the campuses of America, students were rioting. In Czechoslovakia the armies of the Warsaw Pact quashed the Prague Spring. Robert Kennedy and Martin Luther King were assassinated. North Vietnam launched the Tet Offensive. In 1968, amid worldwide chaos and disquiet, the BBC unveiled a quaintly nostalgic sitcom taking the mickey out of the Second World War. Dads Army is, more or less unarguably, the greatest British situation comedy of them all. Steptoe and Son has its claimants. So too Fawlty Towers, soon to be exhumed in the West End. Others merit consideration. But no single sitcom has left quite such a long and glorious vapour trail. Between 1968 and 1977 there were 80 episodes. There was also a feature film in 1971 and a West End stage play-cum-revue. Recently some lost episodes have been revived in the form of black-and-white cartoons. Countless repeats have recruited younger fans. A slightly misbegotten big-screen version in 2016 simply confirmed that the original is inimitable. In the beginning was the partnership of David Croft and Jimmy Perry, who both had first-hand experience of the war. Croft was an air raid warden who in 1942 joined the Royal Artillery and was soon deployed to North Africa. Perry, a teenage veteran of what became the Home Guard, joined the artillery a year after Perry and fetched up in Burma. There he was active in concert parties, mainly taking the camp Carmen Miranda-esque roles those experiences would later inspire It Aint Half Hot Mum. So when Dads Army came to be shot, they knew the terrain. We were very lucky with authenticity because we were there, recalled Croft, speaking in the episode of Britains Best Sitcom devoted to Dads Army. There werent any technical advisers floating about. We didnt have to have that. We knew the background very well. David Croft and Jimmy Perry, joint creators of Dad's Army - BBC In 1967 both were in a hole. Croft was just about hanging on as a comedy producer at the BBC; he was blamed for the disaster of Benny Hills departure for ITV, having fallen out with the star while producing his show. Then a first draft of a half-hour comedy was passed on to him by his wife Ann Callender, a theatrical agent who represented Perry. It was called The Fighting Tigers and it lovingly caricatured the antics of the men, too old to join up, who were Englands last line of defence against invasion. Perry was a jobbing actor in the doldrums. A creature of the theatre for ten years he had been actor-manager at Watford Palace he couldnt get arrested in the new world of television. So he decided to write a script with a tailor-made role for himself. The idea came to him when watching the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace; it riffed on his experiences as a 17-year-old in the 10th Hertfordshire Battalion of the Local Defence Volunteers. Croft liked the script and took it to the BBC. Six episodes were commissioned by the head of comedy Michael Mills under the catchier title of Dads Army. Croft and Perry then wrote it together (though eventually they wrote separately, 40 episodes each). When it came to casting, leading actors turned down the part of Captain Mainwaring until Croft suggested Arthur Lowe, best known for Coronation Street. Lowe was initially wary of doing a sitcom, while the higher-ups werent keen on an actor associated with the rival broadcaster, but the writer-producers had their way. The casting of Le Mesurier as Mainwarings social superior but military underling was a stroke of genius - Topfoto It was a potentially disastrous choice because Lowe found it difficult to retain Mainwarings dialogue. This was so even as late as the sixth series. In the lead-up to the shows most indelible punchline Dont tell him, Pike! Lowe makes an awful Horlicks of one line and a delicious cutaway to John Le Mesurier discreetly side-eyeing as Sergeant Wilson says everything about their relationship. It was Millss idea to have Wilson tower over Mainwaring. The casting of Le Mesurier as Mainwarings social superior but military underling was a stroke of genius. There was a languid, inscrutable otherness to him that helped create the impression of Wilson floating in his own private space. Meanwhile Perrys dream of starring in his own creation bit the dust. He was too old to play Private Pike, who was inspired by his own memories of being molly-coddled by his mother while defending the realm. The role he had his eye on was the black-marketeering spiv Private Walker. If youre a writer and youve written yourself a funny part, reasoned Croft, all the other actors are going to think hes written the best lines for him. So that is not a desirable thing. Instead the part went to James Beck, who had been among Perrys discoveries at Watford Palace. The ensemble, far larger than for any previous sitcom, included two veterans of the Somme. The best known was John Laurie as Private Frazer, who had a key role in The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp and had starred in Hamlet at the Old Vic. Arnold Ridley, as Private Godfrey, was the author of many stage plays notably the influential and much-produced The Ghost Train. In 1916 he had been bayoneted twice in hand-to-hand combat, his left arm operated on 17 times by army doctors. But it was the proximity of the more recent war that was the shows potential enemy. The Second World War was only as old then as the invasion of Iraq is to us now. You couldnt choose a bigger situation unless you did the history of the world or the story of the bible, said Clive Dunn on Britains Best Sitcom he was not yet 50 when cast as Corporal Jones but his CV consisted of older roles. I had a good idea how to play that part. I was an old soldier, Id been in the army for seven years, Id been a prisoner of war for four years. Old Corporal Jones always hated Hitler and did his best to be unpleasant about him so from that point of view it was a sort of revenge for me. BBC1 controller and ex-paratrooper Paul Fox feared the wrath of the nation. He worried that they would think the show was disrespectful of the war effort. One of the problems was the title sequence, which originally included footage of both refugees and the Wehrmacht. Laurie found it distasteful. The bosses didnt like this raw reminder of national trauma either. So the iconic cartoon sequence was commissioned instead, with Nazi arrows shoving Union Jacks back across the English Channel. Meanwhile, the plucky spirit of Dunkirk was invoked by the lyrics of Perrys signature tune, Who Do You Think You Are Kidding, Mr Hitler?, sung by music-hall star Bud Flanagan. Ian Lavender as Private Frank Pike and John Le Mesurier as Sergeant Arthur Wilson When the show was recorded in front of a live audience, it went well. But just to be sure, the BBC arranged a new-fangled test screening of the first episode to anticipate audience reaction. Some expressed bewilderment. The crafty Croft didnt panic. He stuffed the report in a drawer and, when asked about the results, claimed not to have seen them. Paul Foxs other insurance policy was to insist on an opening scene set in the present day in which the characters respectfully recollect the war effort. The experiment was not repeated. It was particularly unfortunate that it showed Beck as an old man when in reality he died, aged 44, of alcohol-related pancreatitis while working on the sixth series. None of the cast, especially the ones in the 70s, imagined it would last. We didnt think it would become so successful, Le Mesurier said on Desert Island Discs in 1973. We thought it would appear to people of my sort of age group, but children seem to dig it. Success was measured in viewing figures. At its loftiest peak, Dads Army lured 18.5 million viewers to the sofa, or roughly a third of the UK population. That eye-watering statistic reflects the shows popularity but also, with only three channels to choose from, a less competitive era in broadcasting. Those viewers were watching a weekly snapshot of Englands calcified class structure just as the 1960s were loosening things up. Its beloved cast of characters, with their pitch-perfect catchphrases, rapidly entered the national bloodstream. At its loftiest peak, Dads Army lured 18.5 million viewers to the sofa - BBC Studios It was only the actors age that brought the show to a close. We had to come to an end, recalled Perry, because David said, You know Jimmy, theyre getting on I dont think they can do much more. I said, Well lets do one last series. Why did it work so well for so long? According to Croft, It reflected a time when we all behaved very well. As a gang show it was one of the inspirations for Victoria Woods dinnerladies. Not long after finishing her own sitcom after two series, she fronted a documentary in tribute to Dads Army. In a concluding piece to camera, she praised its vanishing virtues: Its celebratory and its positive and its innocent, she argued, full of wit, pathos, character, slapstick, farce, overplaying, underplaying. And because it was set in the past, she added, it could never age. Despite the death of Ian Lavender, the very last surviving member of its cast, it looks as if it never will. If therell always be an England, therell never be a more popular comic portrait of Englishness. This was our finest half-hour. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Maisie Williams, left, plays Catherine Dior in The New Look; right, The Bar suit, presented by Renee Breton in 1955 on the occasion of Christian Diors conference given at the Universite dela Sorbonne. Haute Couture Spring-Summer 1947 collection, Corolle line - Photograph by Willy Maywald. Association Willy Maywald/ADAGP, Paris, 2024 I keep looking for the great collection to rise from the ashes of the war, declares Glenn Close, acting as the legendary Harpers Bazaar editor Carmel Snow in the upcoming television series The New Look. As Nazi occupation in Paris came to an end in 1945, the citys once-cherished couture scene was desolate. Many houses, including Chanel, had shuttered, while the few names that had continued trading and (knowingly or naively) selling ball gowns to Nazi wives were now somewhat tainted in the eyes of the newly liberated French customer. Glenn Close as Carmel Snow in The New Look Against this backdrop, Christian Dior launched his debut collection in 1947. The reception was rapturous, the lines considered green shoots. Snow and her peers had found the revolutionary they sought. My dear Christian, Snow famously said, in real life, your dresses have such a New Look. The collection and its reception changed the way we dress. The New Look, which launches on Apple TV on Feb 14, charts Diors beginnings as one of the worlds best-known couturiers. The director Todd A Kessler (the writer behind Damages, who began his career on The Sopranos) has assembled a stellar cast Ben Mendelsohn as Monsieur Dior, Juliette Binoche as his rival Gabrielle Coco Chanel, John Malkovich as his former employer Lucien Lelong, and Close as their promoter, Snow. Acting legends play fashion legends, match for match. Juliette Binoche and Claes Bang in The New Look, playing Coco Chanel and 'Spatz' respectively - Roger DO MINH Behind the glamour, though, the series explores the events from this unique turning point in fashion history which have been never-before-dramatised, Kessler tells The Telegraph. The extraordinary circumstances that led to Christian Dior launching his first collection in 1947 was the inspiration for The New Look. The four-year-long Nazi occupation of Paris and the horrors of the Second World War that touched nearly everyone alive at that time, led to resurgence of creativity. The Bar suit, worn by Tania, during the first Dior fashion show, on February 12, 1947, for Haute Couture Spring-Summer1947 collection, Corolle line - Photograph by Eugene Kammerman. Eugene Kammerman/Gamma-Rapho Drawing by Christian Berard of the Bar suit, Spring-Summer 1947 Haute Couture collection, Corolle line - Credits Collection musee Christian Dior, Granville, Christian Berard Across 10 episodes Kessler imagines, romanticises and amplifies the camaraderie and rivalry between Dior and his contemporaries (particularly Chanel, Pierre Balmain and Lelong). He unpicks the difficulties each personality navigated during the Second World War the question of whether to continue designing, and for clients on which side, the grapple of assisting the efforts of the French resistance, while maintaining face as high profile individuals. Many of Pariss glittering fashion leaders were attractive names that Nazi leaders wanted to meet and, in cases, relocate to Berlin. So how much of the tale is true? Dior began his career as a gallerist, then an illustrator, before accepting a job as house designer with Robert Piguet in 1938. After being called up for military service in 1939, he returned to Paris to design for the house of Lucien Lelong. Christian Dior, Vogue dress, Haute Couture Spring-Summer 1947, En 8 line - Collection Dior Heritage, Paris, Droits reserves Kesslers drama picks up here, in 1943, as Dior and his co-worker Pierre Balmain, apparently tired of designing for anothers name and struggling with the moral dilemma of accepting wages in return for making dresses, when the only people left having parties were the Nazis. To zoom in on this particular moment in time is richly complex and therefore ripe for dramatisation. Kessler did seven years of research not only on the personal stories of Dior and his contemporaries (Chanel, Balenciaga, Balmain, Lelong, Givenchy, Pierre Cardin, to name but a few) but also on the two decades in France leading up to the Nazi Occupation of Paris, he says. It was important to me to understand as best I could the French perspective on life, on liberty, and what it then meant to have that taken away by the Germans. Chanels allegiances during the war seemed conflicting it is known that she was recorded as a trusted source by Nazi authorities in July 1941, using the codename Westminster. Yet in January 1943, it is recorded that she joined the French Resistance as an occasional agent. She closed her couture business in 1939, and didnt reopen until February 1954, at the age of 71. By then, Dior was considered a master of couture and the most famous designer in the world Chanels comeback was amped up in the press. Watch out M. Dior Mlle Chanel may be one step ahead of you, the British journalist Jean Wiseman wrote at the time. Ben Mendelsohn as Christian Dior in The New Look - Roger DO MINH Catherine Dior, Christians beloved younger sister, played an important role in inspiring the founding of his namesake house. She was an active member of the French Resistance, who was ultimately captured and taken to Ravensbruck in August 1944. Her courageous story, typically, is overshadowed by the phenomenal success of her elder brother. Yet her safe return to Paris in May 1945 contributed to the optimism felt by the designer when creating his New Look, and the fragrance Miss Dior, which was sprayed through his atelier as he delivered his new design ideas. Catherines return seemed to bring about a change in Christian, Justine Picardie, the author of Miss Dior: A Story of Courage and Couture, wrote in The Telegraph in 2021. Having shown no particular ambition to have a couture house of his own, in April 1946 he suddenly found the confidence to do so. When he showed his New Look collection, Catherine was watching in the audience. Maisie Williams as Catherine Dior in The New Look - Lorenzo Agius The actor Maisie Williams, who plays Catherine in the series, read Picardies book before accepting the role, and listened to chapters of the audiobook on repeat nightly before bed while filming. Everything Catherine had gone through is not really commonly known, Williams tells The Telegraph. When we think about fashion and we think about Christian Dior we dont really think about Catherine at all. But the life that she lived and the impact that she had was such a massive part of his inspiration. I wanted to tell the human story, so that people could connect with the way that she influenced him. In his 1957 autobiography, Dior wrote that his unhappy chapter had ended when Catherine returned. Buoyed also by seeing Pierre Balmain leave Lelong and set up his own company, he followed suit. He visited a fortune teller, secured financial backing from the Boussac group, and considered it a seal of fate when the building he had admired at 30 Avenue Montaigne came up for lease. My optimism enabled me to forget temporarily that we were still living in the aftermath of a terrible war, Dior reflected in his memoir. Traces of it were all around me damaged buildings, devastated countryside, rationing and less serious, but of more immediate interest to me, hideous fashions. Hats were far too large, skirts far too short, jackets far too long, shoes far too heavy. He took himself off to stay with friends in Fleury-en-Biere, and in a fortnight sketched the basis of his debut Corolle and En 8 lines the elegant collections which would later be dubbed The New Look. His vision was to allow women, whose access to fabrics had been restricted and who may have spent time wearing nothing but uniforms, to feel feminine and pretty, with rounded shoulders, nipped waists, and full skirts. His dresses had glamorous names Gala, Vogue, Songe (dream) to indicate where they were intended to be worn, and how they might make the wearer feel. We were just emerging from a poverty stricken parsimonious era, obsessed with ration books and clothes coupons, Dior later reflected. It was only natural that my creations should take the form of a reaction against this dearth of imagination. That intuition, Kessler says, was the key to success. His series, while dramatised, offers a chance for audiences to understand the sorrow and saga which spurred one of the most recognised labels in the world. Kessler wants audiences to hit the pause button, he says. We speak these names daily in streets, airports, fashion houses. We should ask ourselves who were the people behind the names weve known all our lives? Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. When its winter, Im always on the hunt for sweet treats that bring a hint of sunshine into my life. And though it might sound counterintuitive, one of my favorite ways to brighten up the long dark nights of winter is by indulging in a light and fruity sorbet. The concentrated flavor of sun-ripened produce just brings a smile to my face, and when I saw Trader Joes newest sorbet flavor, I knew it would be just the thing to melt away my winter woes. Its a new sorbet inspired by the tropical fruit of the Philippines, and though mango is part of the equation (its the national fruit of the Philippines, after all), the true star of this new sorbet is a unique type of citrus. Youve heard of yuzu, and sampled citron. But what about calamansi? This small citrus fruit (also known as calamondin and Phillipine lemon) is ubiquitous in Filipino cooking, like limes to Mexican food or lemons in the Amalfi Coast. Calamansi fruit are about the size of a key lime, sometimes smaller, and they have a super tart, citrusy flavor. They can be used when the peel is green, or when its turned orange. Interestingly, they have a sweet peel, similar to a kumquat, so if you ever get your hands on some fresh calamansi, you can try eating one whole, peel and all Im lucky enough to have a calamansi tree in my back yard, and we call them natures Sour Patch kids! In Filipino cuisine, calamansi is used in marinades, turned into juice, and is often squeezed over dishes like pancit right before serving. You can even buy calamansi juice online if you want to try it in those applications. But in Trader Joes new Calamansi & Mango Sorbet, they help balance out the silky sweetness of ripe mangoes. Each bite of the sorbet is tart, sweet, and refreshing, and will totally bring on the sunshine vibes even if its dark and stormy outside. Trader Joes recommends using this new sorbet as a palate cleanser when indulging in some Double Cream Brie, or as a refreshing dessert after a rich meal. Its also delicious dolloped into a bowl of punch, and you can top a scoop with some champagne for an instant cocktail. Trader Joes new Calamansi & Mango Sorbet retails for $3.79 a pint, but it might not be around for too long. This is a limited time item, so if the thought of this citrusy sweet vegan sorbet has your mouth watering, youll want to head to your nearest Trader Joes to pick some up today. Before you go, check out all of the Trader Joes products you can shop right at Walmart: Watch: How to Make Watermelon Mango Salsa Best of SheKnows Sign up for SheKnows' Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Dotdash Meredith and Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below. Theyre a Hollywood mom staple. amazon / instyle I never cared about a shoes comfort level until I moved to New York City. I quickly realized that this city moves fast, and I needed footwear that could keep up with the pace. Unfortunately, my stiletto heels didnt make the cut (at least when it came to everyday commutes). But you know what did? My Wool Runners from Allbrids. Im sure youve heard of Allbirds; the brand has racked up an impressive lineup of celebrity fans including Mila Kunis, Blake Lively, Courteney Cox, Chrissy Teigen, Emma Watson, and Sarah Jessica Parker (just to name a few). The Wool Runners have been dubbed the Hollywood mom shoe thanks to their A-list roster, and Im here to confirm that celebrities love them for good reason. getty images Available in gray, navy, and black, the sneakers boast a supportive rubber sole, lace-up closure, and removable cushioned foam insole for a customized fit. The star of the show is its thermo-regulating merino wool exterior, which keeps your feet cozy without being scratchy; Im very particular about texture, so this is a big deal. While snuggly, the material allows for breathability so its never too hot. Allbirds Wool Runners Amazon $98 at Amazon I put the Allbirds Wool Runners to the ultimate test: a trip to Disneyland. I wore the shoes right out of the box and ended up walking 11 miles. I expected to be in serious pain, yet the Wool Runners felt like clouds on my feet, whether I was dancing through Main Street, running to the popcorn machine, or standing in long lines. Theyve become one of my go-to comfy sneakers, and I rely on them for both traveling and walking around the block. I even gifted my dad a pair of the Wool Runners for Christmas Im that impressed. Amazon $98 at Amazon You dont even have to worry about getting the Wool Runners dirty; pop the kicks into a delicates bag and toss them into the washing machine. As long as its on a cold, gentle cycle and the shoes air-dry for 24 hours, the Wool Runners wont lose their performance or shape, according to the brand. The Allbirds Wool Runners arent just practical, theyre stylish, too. Coordinate the versatile shoes with leggings and an oversized tee or jeans and a hoodie for a high-end sporty look. I wouldnt necessarily wear them to a black-tie event, but lets be honest: Were here for comfort! According to shoppers, the Allbirds Wool Runners last years, so youre sure to get your money's worth but the only way to do so is by securing your own pair. Select your choice of color and experience the level of comfort only Allbirds Wool Runners can bring. Amazon $98 at Amazon For more InStyle news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on InStyle. Norwegian will modify its 2024 and 2025 itineraries, replacing it with other stops in Italy, Croatia, and Slovenia. Bruce Hood/Getty Images Norwegian Cruise Line is saying arrivederci to Venice, cutting the canal city from its cruise itineraries in 2024 and 2025. The cruise line confirmed to Travel + Leisure it will no longer include stops in Venice as part of its plans years after the city declared its waterways a national monument and banned large cruise ships. Since then, Norwegian said it has been ferrying visitors to the famed city by tender, but it was no longer a viable option. Due to the restrictions on large cruise ships to sail into the Venice Lagoon and dock at the usual piers, large cruise ships calling to Venice are required to anchor outside of the lagoon and utilize tender boats to access the Port of Venice, a Norwegian Cruise Line spokesperson told T+L. While we have made every effort possible to maintain these calls to Venice, the tender operation and overall experience this provides our guests has fallen short of the standard we aim to deliver. Going forward, Norwegian will modify its 2024 itineraries that previously included Venice, replacing it with port visits to either Ravenna, Italy; Rijeka and Zadar, Croatia; or Koper, Slovenia. In 2025, the cruise line will replace stops in Venice with either a sea day or another port, depending on availability. We recognize that Venice is one of the worlds greatest destinations, cherished by both our guests and crew, and as such acknowledge the inconvenience and frustration this disruption may cause, the spokesperson added. We appreciate the understanding of our loyal guests and travel agent partners. Major cruise lines have utilized different options to get guests to Venice. MSC Cruises, for example, stops in Marghera, which sits just across the water from the city. Others, like Princess Cruises and Holland America Line, stop in Trieste, which sits on the border near Slovenia. Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises both stop in Ravenna, about a 2 hour 30 minute drive from Venice. Venice has been making efforts to limit over-tourism for years. The city, which has received multiple reprieves from being included on UNESCOs list of world heritage sites in danger, also plans to implement a tourist fee for day visitors this spring and aims to limit the size of tour groups allowed this coming summer. For more Travel & Leisure news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on Travel & Leisure. One person was critically injured in a car crash Thursday afternoon in Kansas Citys Northland, according to police. Officers and emergency medical personnel were dispatched about 5 p.m. to the 500 block of North Atlantic Street, in the largely industrial Harlem neighborhood near Charles B. Wheeler Downtown Airport. The driver and lone occupant of a wrecked Ford Escort sedan was taken to the hospital. Police said the driver was not wearing a seatbelt and had been thrown from the vehicle. Early findings of the investigation indicated the driver was traveling at a high speed when crossing a set of railroad tracks. The car went airborne while crossing the tracks, police said, and ran off the roadway at a curve. It traveled down an embankment, crashed through a barbed-wire fence, and overturned several times, police said. As of Thursday night, the driver remained in serious condition. Police continued to investigate the crash. Many Wisconsin child care providers have long said the states public 4-year-old kindergarten structure has jeopardized their businesses. A new bill aims to help, but some warn it could harm school districts. The legislation, which is Republicans latest attempt to address Wisconsins child care woes, had two public hearings this week. In Tuesdays Senate committee hearing, supporters stressed the bill would give Wisconsin families more free 4K options while also supporting the struggling child care industry. Others expressed concerns that this could come at the expense of school districts autonomy. The new bill would require school districts to contract with eligible early childhood education providers, including child care programs, to provide public 4K in those settings. It also would set a more uniform baseline for how much a school district must pay child care programs to offer public 4K. Currently, Wisconsin school districts have the option to contract with other local early education providers for 4K, but are not required to do so. In cases where child care providers do not offer public 4K, parents often withdraw their children from child care and choose to instead enroll them in public 4K, which is free. The switch allows families to save substantial amounts of money; at the same time, child care providers lose valued enrollment and revenue. If a school district doesn't offer 4K, the bill would not apply. More: Republican lawmakers hope to change 4K in Wisconsin to bolster child care. Here's what to know. Related: GOP bill says employers could be key to helping solve the child care crisis. But is it enough? Bill would help secure financial stability for child care programs, supporters say For child care providers, losing 4-year-olds packs a particularly hard punch: It costs less to take care of older children than younger children because of worker-child ratios, which are based on the children's ages. Providers often rely on the revenue generated from enrolling older children to offset the high cost of taking care of the younger ones. Tricia Peterson is owner and director of a Juneau child care center, Future All Stars LLC, that does not offer public 4K through its local school district. She consulted with Rep. Joy Goeben of Hobart on the bill draft and testified in support of it. She said that when the local school district started offering full-day 4K, the center lost 48% of its budget from the exodus of 4-year-olds from her program to public school. Corrine Hendrickson helps Aurora Funseth, 4, off the bus after her 4K class on Jan. 25 in New Glarus. Hendrickson's program is a home-based family child care center, Corrine's Little Explorers. Hendrickson recently testified in support of a bill that seeks to alter the state's public 4K structure to require school districts to contract with program's like Hendrickson's to offer public 4K. As of now, because the district and Hendrickson don't have a contract, she cannot offer free 4K instruction at her program. Joan Beck, owner and administrator of Willows Christian Child Care Center in Iron Ridge, shared a similar story. Beck also consulted with Goeben on the bill and also shared her support with lawmakers. Its really tough to compete against free, Beck said in an interview. I cant blame any parents who choose free over what it costs to have their children in child care programs. To stay open after this revenue loss, Peterson had to raise the cost of care for the families that remained at her center at a time when child care can easily surpass the cost of college tuition. Providers said there's another key aspect of the bill that could further stabilize child care: the amount it would require districts to give child care providers under contracts for public 4K. Under current state law, for funding purposes, 4K students are not counted as full-time students, regardless of whether the 4K program is full day. Depending on how 4K is administered in the school district, districts receive either 50% or 60% of the funding they would receive from the state for an older, full-time student. Under the bill, districts would be required to send 95% of that per-student allocation. Currently, there are no stipulations in state law on how much of this funding must be paid to a child care provider when they contract with a district to provide public 4K. More public 4K programs, more choices for parents Advocates said the bill would result in more tuition-free 4K programs for families to choose from. More families could access public 4K through their trusted child care provider allowing them to save on child care costs during 4K instruction times. When the 4K day is over, children could stay at the same place for child care until their parents get off work. Brooke Legler, owner and director of New Glarus The Growing Tree Child Care Center, said at Tuesdays hearing that her local school district does not contract with child care providers to offer 4K and so limits parents' choices. More: 5 things to know about 4-year-old kindergarten in Wisconsin Others say the bill compromises school districts' local control, could worsen financial strain Dan Rossmiller, executive director of the Wisconsin Association of School Boards, submitted testimony opposing the bill. He said in an interview that WASB has long supported school districts contracting with other entities to provide 4K on a voluntary basis, but takes issue with the Legislature mandating a particular approach and dictating the terms of the approach. We support giving school boards and school districts flexibility to structure 4K programs in ways that best serve their communities, Rossmiller said in the interview. During Tuesdays public hearing, the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction and others raised funding concerns about the bill. The bill would not provide extra funding to districts, so they would have to redistribute existing funds to ensure they met the bills requirement for the payments they must provide child care programs. The department is opposing (the bill) because it does not solve the biggest problem facing schools and providers: a desperate need for additional state resources, DPIs submitted testimony said. Instead, this proposal distorts an innovative, mostly successful approach to early childhood the four-year-old kindergarten community approach to divert resources from schools to child care providers. Related: Wisconsin schools are facing fiscal cliffs, closing buildings and going to referendum. How did we get here? More: If it seems Wisconsin school districts are asking voters for money more often, it's because they are Schools concerned bill could undermine early literacy progress Many of those testifying against the bill were concerned that it could impede the work school districts have been doing as a result of legislation aimed at strengthening early literacy in Wisconsin schools. Under current law, 4K teachers need a license from the DPI. The bill would remove this requirement for community-based 4K teachers, such as those in child care settings. It instead outlines degree requirements, which providers say better align with the skills needed to teach young children. But DPI said that in removing the licensing requirement, those teachers would not be getting essential early literacy training. Under the bill, child care programs offering public 4K could use any curriculum so long as it meets Wisconsin Model Early Learning Standards. Many also questioned how the bills curriculum stipulation would jibe with the states recent early literacy efforts. More: Wisconsin passed a landmark literacy law 3 months ago. So what happens next? More: Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction asks lawmakers to change deadline for implementing part of Wisconsin's new literacy law We oppose SB 973 because it does not provide for a strong critical first year for our youngest learners, Faith VanderHorst, executive director of the Southeastern Wisconsin Schools Alliance, wrote when outlining such concerns in a testimony submitted to the Senate Committee on Education. The bill, as it stands now, also does not address how children with disabilities would be served, another area of great concern for many school districts. What's next? Kai Wells, left, 5, and Quinn Wells, 3, help pick up before going outside to play at Corrine's Little Explorers on Jan. 25 in New Glarus. The home-based family child care center is owned by Corrine Hendrickson. The children's mother, Diana Rogers Wells, explained that she chose not to enroll Kai in public 4K this year and instead opted to keep him enrolled at Corrine's Little Explorers for a variety of reasons. If a Republican bill that would change public 4K in Wisconsin becomes law, families like Rogers Wells' would be able to keep their children enrolled in their trusted child care environment and still get free 4K instruction. A common theme throughout much of Tuesday's testimony was the need for more discussion on the bill, particularly surrounding how 4K could be enhanced in a way that benefits both child care providers and school districts. The Department of Children and Families, which testified for information only on Tuesday, provided legislators with a list of things to consider in discussing potential changes to 4K. Rep. Jill Billings, D-La Crosse, discussed creating a bipartisan committee on child care issues during Wednesdays public hearing, which she said could be the perfect platform for additional discussions. She expressed concerns with such a large topic being rushed through at the end of the legislative session. Billings has twice asked for such a committee in the past, once with Rep. Patrick Snyder, R-Schofield. It never came to fruition. I would be willing to sit down and look at a plan that works for child care providers, works for the school districts and works for families in Wisconsin, she said in the interview. Lets take the time to sit down on a bipartisan basis and figure it out. The legislation awaits further action in its respective committees and in each legislative chamber. Madison Lammert covers child care and early education across Wisconsin as a Report for America corps member based at The Appleton Post-Crescent. To contact her, email mlammert@gannett.com or call 920-993-7108. Please consider supporting journalism that informs our democracy with a tax-deductible gift to Report for America by visiting postcrescent.com/RFA. This article originally appeared on Appleton Post-Crescent: New 4K bill could help child care, but at the expense of schools? A defense attorney representing Timothy M. Haslett, the Excelsior Springs man accused of imprisoning and raping a woman in his home for about a month, wants a Clay County judge to prevent information about the case from being shared publicly. Haslett, 41, faces criminal charges of rape, kidnapping and sodomy in Clay County Circuit Court after a malnourished woman, wearing a collar locked around her neck, ran to neighbors and said she had been restrained in a mans basement. She said she escaped a room built to keep her confined while Haslett drove his child to school. The case made national headlines as jarring details of her account became public, and again when another woman authorities described as a potential witness in the case was found dead in a blue barrel floating in the Missouri River. It also struck a chord among Black Kansas Citians who have questioned whether police do enough to address cases of missing Black women. Police have said the only known victim, who is Black, was never reported missing. Haslett, who has pleaded not guilty, has been jailed since October 2022. He is held on a $3 million bond as his criminal case is pending. In a court motion Monday, Tiffany Leuty Winningham of the Missouri Public Defenders Office, referenced significant press coverage and attention from amateur detectives on social media in seeking a protective order. Over the past 16 months, she wrote, Hasletts neighbors, ex-girlfriends and co-workers have been interviewed by the news media. Details of a custody case were also shared via the news. A true-crime show based in Las Vegas recently requested arrest records, she said. And she contends reporting on the case is often inaccurate and speculative. The release of further information will continue to add to the already widespread adverse and prejudicial reaction to the defendant and prejudice his case, Leuty Winningham wrote in the motion. Under the proposed protective order, parties to the case would be forbidden from disclosing any materials held by the Clay County Prosecuting Attorneys Office, other law enforcement or Hasletts defense to anyone who is not a part of the case. Also sought is a court order that would place discovery answers and documents under seal. On the morning of Hasletts arrest, a then-22-year-old woman went to a neighbors house on the quiet suburban block in Excelsior Springs where Haslett was known to live alone with a young son. The woman said she had been kidnapped sometime in early September, about a month earlier, and abused by Haslett during that time. She also said Haslett was responsible for killing two people. But when interviewed by police, she said she had not witnessed the deaths, according to authorities, and police were unable to corroborate her statements. Authorities have also linked Haslett to the case of 36-year-old Jaynie Crosdale, though Haslett has not been charged with a crime related to her disappearance or mysterious death. In January 2023, police began asking the public for help to track down Crosdale, saying they believed she might be able to provide information important to the Haslett investigation. In late June, months after billboards were placed around the metro with Crosdales face and name, kayakers stumbled upon a blue barrel floating in the Missouri River in Saline County, about 100 miles east. Police were called to investigate and ultimately identified remains inside the barrel as Crosdale. In August, shortly after Crosdales body was publicly identified, Clay County prosecutors sought to increase Hasletts $3 million bond, citing new evidence. A judge denied that request. The next hearing in Hasletts case is scheduled for April 15. Assemble Lincoln, Lancaster Countys standing committee tasked with developing a downtown Lincoln convention center, will hold a Feb. 19 open house. It will be held at Park Middle School, 855 S. 8th St., from 5-7:30 p.m. Assemble Lincoln has issued requests for proposals both for potential sites and for a convention center design. The site RFP deadline is Feb. 29; the deadline for design RFPs is March 1. The open house will provide residents, business owners and stakeholders an opportunity to learn about the convention center and to share their insights, concerns and ideas. Attendees will be able to walk through several stations and talk with station facilitators. Stations will include information on the genesis of the project, past studies, legislation and benefits of having a convention center downtown. Facilitators of the open house will include representatives from the Lancaster County Board, the Downtown Lincoln Association, Visit Lincoln and Lincoln Downtown Rotary Club 14. Associates from Legends, the consultant hired by the county to help bring a convention center to Lincoln, will also be there. Refreshments and art activities for children will be provided. For more information and updates, please visit www.assemblelincoln.com. Top Journal Star photos for January 2024 By Jonathan Landay WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Senior Nordic and Baltic lawmakers visiting Washington on Thursday expressed alarm at what they called a lack of urgency and a clear strategy by the United States to help Ukraine defeat Moscow's invasion. Russian President Vladimir Putin will move to take more European territory if he wins in Ukraine, raising the danger of a conflict with the U.S.-led NATO alliance that would carry immense human and economic costs, the lawmakers said. "Guys, wake up," Zygimantis Pavilionis, chairman of the Lithuanian parliament's foreign affairs committee, said in comments directed at Democrats and Republicans. "Are you ready to defeat enemy No. 1 that is acting like the Hitler of today?" The bleak assessment of how Washington is dealing with the threat posed by Europe's biggest conflict since World War II underscored growing concerns across the Atlantic that U.S. domestic political feuds are undercutting support for Ukraine. The parliamentary foreign affairs committee chairs from Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland and Norway spoke at the end of a two-day visit to press for new U.S. aid as Ukraine struggles with ammunition shortages and Russian assaults. All but Sweden are NATO members. A U.S congressional battle over immigration is stalling $61 billion in new military assistance. Delegation members said they met administration officials and lawmakers, but mainly sought to speak to Republicans resisting fresh aid. Only one sceptical Republican House of Representatives member agreed to see them, they said. There "wasn't a sense of urgency," said Latvian parliamentarian Rihards Kols, adding it was "bizarre" that some American lawmakers urged the Europeans to engage more with U.S. citizens to explain the stakes of a Russian victory. "It is absolutely your job to do that," he said he responded. Several delegation members criticized President Joe Biden for opposing Ukraine's admission to NATO and his strategy of "doing what it takes" to aid Kyiv. "We don't hear a clear (U.S.) message how this war should end up," said Marko Mihkelson, chair of the Estonian parliamentary foreign affairs committee. Delegation members said they repeatedly heard Europe was not doing enough to help Ukraine. Kols called this a false assertion that "has really played into Putin's cards" with narratives of war fatigue. "All of our countries around this table have (given) more than 1% of GDP of military aid to Ukraine. The U.S. stands (at) around 0.3%," said Mihkelson. Russia has massively boosted its military budget, its defense industries are operating around the clock and Moscow is importing Western technologies despite international sanctions, Kols said. "We should not underestimate their will to outlast us," he continued. "They don't care about human lives. They don't care about the cost. We should wake up." (This story has been refiled to add dropped words in paragraphs 7 and 11) (Reporting by Jonathan Landay; Editing by Don Durfee and David Ljunggren) Biden administration officials rejected claims by Cuban authorities that the United States is supporting people in Miami plotting terrorist actions against Cuba after Cuban officials again raised the issue during a meeting centered on law enforcement cooperation between the two countries that took place in Washington D.C. earlier this week. In a statement, the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs said island officials had provided the U.S. with informationon the activities of people living in the United States, identified by their links to terrorism. Last December, the Cuban government published a list of so-called wanted terrorists, which includes the names of well-known Miami-based Cuban activists, media personalities and influencers who are critical of the government. At the time, Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez accused the Biden administration of being complicit in giving shelter, supporting and protecting the people they included on the list. Granma, the Communist Party daily, also accused the U.S. State Department and U.S. intelligence agencies in a December story of plotting violent acts against the communist regime. A State Department official told the Miami Herald the accusations are baseless. We are aware of the list released by the Cuban government, the official said. Allegations that the United States is encouraging violent actions against the Cuban government are absurd. The list was published soon after the State Department published its Country Reports on Terrorism for 2022, naming Cuba as one of the countries still included on the U.S. list of states that sponsor terrorism. The State Department official said the list produced by Cuba and the recent allegations are the newest iteration of Cuban authorities efforts to belittle emigrants exercising their freedom of expression, including their freedom to criticize Cubas abysmal human rights record and relentless repression. Officials from the departments of State, Homeland Securit and Justice, and from the U.S. Embassy in Havana met with representatives from Cubas Interior Ministry, the Attorney Generals office, Customs and the Foreign Ministry on Wednesday for the sixth time since 2015 for the U.S.-Cuba Law Enforcement Dialogue. Those regular meetings have been criticized by human rights advocates who believe they help normalize a repressive regime. In Cuba there is no rule of law, said John Suarez, executive director of the Washington-based Center for a Free Cuba. To keep power, the dictatorship maintains a repressive security apparatus that murders nonviolent dissidents extrajudicially. This is not law enforcement. The Cuban dictatorship is a transnational threat, and legitimizing it does not enhance U.S. advocacy for human rights. Despite the political frictions, successive U.S. administrations have stressed the value of the talks for U.S. national security, though the two countries put out statements with an emphasis on different aspects of the discussion. While Cuba used its statement to highlight the commitment of the Cuban government in the fight against terrorism, the U.S. version of the meeting paid more attention to the issue of human rights. Establishing and increasing channels for law enforcement cooperation to address transnational threats also enhances U.S. advocacy for human rights, the State Department said in a statement. The United States integrates advocacy for human rights and human rights protections into all interactions with the Cuban government. The State Department official told the Herald the administration is focused on urging the Cuban government to release the approximately 1,000 unjustly detained political prisoners it holds and to allow its citizens to exercise the full range of human rights as outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which Cuba signed. During testimony Thursday on a bill to ban ownership of agricultural land by foreigners from six countries, a state official told lawmakers that Chinese spies visited South Dakota two years ago. Hunter Roberts is the head of the states Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources. He testified to the state House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee at the Capitol in Pierre. Roberts said the department received an inquiry in 2022 from a Chinese delegation requesting to meet with him and the Governors Office of Economic Development, and requesting tours and infrastructure meetings with grain elevator operators, processing facilities and ag producers. Roberts said the department declined, but the Chinese delegation came anyway, and the federal Department of Homeland Security called state officials before the delegations arrival to ask about it. Roberts said the federal officials were very concerned about the Chinese delegation and very pleased that state officials were not meeting with them. Homeland Security told the Governors Office and the Department of Public Safety that these were Chinese spies, Roberts said. Bill would amend 1979 law Roberts testimony was in favor of a bill that would ban ownership of agricultural land in South Dakota by people, companies and governments from six countries, including China. The committee voted 12-0 to recommend passage of the bill by the House of Representatives, which will consider it next. Our current law needs some updating, said Rep. James Wangness, R-Miller, the bills prime sponsor. Its hard to enforce. An existing state law, which dates to 1979, prohibits foreign people and governments from owning more than 160 acres of agricultural land in South Dakota. There are exceptions for land thats inherited or held as security for debt, for foreign people and governments whose right to hold land is secured by treaties, and for foreigners whove established residency in the United States. The law requires the state Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources to monitor annual federal government reports on foreign ownership of ag land. The department is required to scrutinize the reports for any indications of illegal ownership and to refer findings to the state attorney general. The attorney general is supposed to investigate the findings and take appropriate legal action, potentially including the forfeiture of illegally owned land. Last year, South Dakota Searchlight found the state had one record of ever acting on the existing law, which did not lead to legal action. New bills provisions The new bill goes a step further, explicitly barring any agricultural land ownership in South Dakota by entities from countries designated as prohibited entities: China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba and Venezuela. The bill includes exceptions for leases or easements dedicated to agricultural research on land up to 320 acres, or contract livestock feeding at an animal feeding operation, by a family farm unit, a family farm corporation, or an authorized farm corporation. The bill keeps the cap on the amount of agricultural land that any other foreign entity can own at 160 acres. The problem is the existing law has some loopholes, Roberts said, specifically mentioning a loophole for foreign corporations. The new bill closes that loophole, defining a foreign entity as a company with 10% or more foreign ownership. The new bill would leverage a bill that passed last year to improve reporting to the state. That bill requires corporations formed in South Dakota to disclose whether they own agricultural land and have any foreign owners. During Thursdays hearing, there was no update on how many corporations have made such a disclosure since the law took effect. Luke Lindberg with South Dakota Trade, an organization party funded by the Governors Office of Economic Development, testified in favor of the bill Thursday. He said that while 60% of the states soybeans and one-third of its pork is exported to foreign countries (largely China), The current system is not fair and balanced. He said China bars Americans from owning land there. People respond to strength and not weakness, Lindberg said. Proponents pointed out that no agricultural groups testified against the bill. Rep. Karla Lems, R-Canton, who made the motion to pass the bill, asked if it would impact Summit Carbon Solutions proposed carbon dioxide pipeline project, which she said has Chinese investors. The pipeline would collect carbon emitted by ethanol plants in multiple states, including South Dakota, and transport it for underground storage in North Dakota. Roberts said the state would have to see the companys ownership structure, adding, It could have an impact. Summit secured a $300 million investment from TPG Rise Climate in 2022, and TPG Rise Climate has mentioned the Chinese Silk Road Fund as one of its investors. Afterward, Sabrina Zenor, spokesperson for Summit, responded to South Dakota Searchlight with a statement: Summit has never received any direct investment from China. US-based TPG Rise Climate, who has a non-controlling stake in Summit, has accepted non-controlling investments from institutions across the US, Canada, Europe, and Asia. These investors are TPG Rise Climates Limited Partners, and by definition have no control over TPG Rise Climates investments. Foreign-controlled land in South Dakota According to the most recent federal data, South Dakota has had 307 instances of foreign people or entities acquiring more than 160 acres of ag land since the passage of the existing federal and state laws in the late 1970s. The latest U.S. Department of Agriculture report says the total area of South Dakota agricultural land held by foreigners stands at about 380,000 acres, or about 595 square miles representing a 3,000% increase from when the existing laws were enacted over four decades ago, but comprising less than 1% of all the land in the state. Most of those acquisitions happened after 2015. Primarily, they involved European and Canadian wind energy companies. However, a closer look at the latest federal report shows that among the 307 ag-land acquisitions over 160 acres in South Dakota by foreigners, only 24 involve an ownership stake greater than zero, with the rest presumably being easements. An easement is an agreement that grants a right to use somebody elses land for a single purpose, like erecting a wind turbine. About one-third of the foreign-controlled ag land in South Dakota was acquired by Canadians, with the majority of the remainder being from European countries including the United Kingdom, France, Spain and Germany. The rest totals less than 4,000 acres held by people or entities scattered across locations including the Bahamas, Mexico and Saudi Arabia. Federal reports do not list any Chinese-owned ag land in South Dakota, although a Chinese company does own the Smithfield meatpacking plant in Sioux Falls, which is zoned as industrial land. This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: Chinese spies came to South Dakota, state official tells legislators Republican lawmakers in Kentucky have filed several bills relating to higher education so far in the 2024 session. Some take aim at diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI, practices on college campuses. Others look at establishing new academic, doctorate-level programs at universities in the state. Heres where seven bills related to higher education stand, and what the conversation around the proposed bills has been. New bills must be filed by the last week of February this legislative session, and the session ends on April 15. Senate Bill 6: Divisive concepts at universities Senate Bill 6, sponsored by Sen. Mike Wilson, R-Bowling Green, would limit DEI practices and initiatives at public universities and colleges. That includes non-credit classes, seminars, workshops, trainings and orientations. It also prevents any instruction that promotes divisive concepts like race or sex scapegoating, the belief that certain individuals are inherently privileged, and any teaching that suggests that all Americans are not created equal. Its similar to laws passed in states with Republican majorities in recent years, including Florida and Texas. After Wilsons bill was filed, public universities in Kentucky said they would remain committed to diversity on campus. Several said they do not use practices mentioned in the bill, such as diversity statements where a student or employee is asked to sign a statement affirming their belief in or work toward a diverse and inclusive campus environment. The bill was filed on Jan. 2 and sent to the Senate Education Committee the following day. On Feb. 8, it passed out of the Senate Education Committee. Anti-DEI bill clears KY Senate committee. Official testifies lawmakers misunderstand DEI House Bill 9: Removing DEI offices House Bill 9, sponsored by Rep. Jennifer Decker, R-Waddy, is the second DEI bill related to higher education filed this session. It would require Kentuckys public colleges and universities to defund all DEI offices and trainings, eliminate race-based scholarships and end administrative promotion of those discriminatory concepts. Deckers bill primarily targets university administration. Professors would have freedom over their curriculum under this bill. The bill was filed on Jan. 19 and sent to the House Education Committee on Jan. 25, though no further action has yet been taken. UKs Eli Capilouto on responsibility to advance Kentucky, DEI, health care, more Senate Bill 70: Donor intent protection Senate Bill 70, sponsored by Sen. Phillip Wheeler, R-Pikeville, would require non-profit organizations in Kentucky, including universities, to abide by the terms of the endowment agreement. During a Senate Judiciary Committee meeting, Wheeler said the bill intends to make sure universities use donations and endowments as the donor wanted, even if the donation continues beyond the donors lifetime. The attorney general currently handles concerns about non-profit donations. The bill passed in the Senate on Feb. 5 and was sent to the House of Representatives on Feb. 6. It has been sent to the Committee on Committees. House Bill 228: University employee review process House Bill 228, sponsored by Rep. James Tipton, R-Taylorsville, would introduce a statewide performance evaluation process for all state universities and the Kentucky Community and Technical College System. All faculty evaluations would have to be completed at least once every four years, and would allow university employees to be fired for failing to meet performance and productivity requirements. Critics of the bill say it would eliminate tenure in the state, which protects university employees from being fired without cause. Tipton has pushed back on this criticism, saying the bill is not meant to target tenure. It was introduced in the House on Jan. 10 and was sent to the House Education Committee on Jan. 17. The bill was discussed in the committee on Jan. 23, but no further action has been taken. House Bill 257: Transferring CPE duties to KHEAA House Bill 257, sponsored by Rep. Steven Doan, R-Erlanger, would disband the Council on Postsecondary Education and move its responsibilities to the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority. CPE oversees Kentuckys public universities and the Kentucky Community and Technical College System, and its duties include setting tuition ceilings, approving and overseeing academic programs and the states performance funding model, which distributes state appropriations to schools. KHEAA oversees and provides state financial aid, including the Kentucky Education Excellence Scholarship program. The bill was filed and sent to the Committee on Committees on Jan. 16, with no further action since then. House Bill 400: Vet school at Murray State House Bill 400, sponsored by Rep. Richard Heath, R-Mayfield, would make Murray State University the first state in the school to offer doctorate-level veterinarian degrees. The bill would allow Murray State to offer doctors degrees required for professional practice and licensure in veterinary medicine. The bill comes as Kentucky is facing a veterinary shortage, especially veterinarians who work with large animals like livestock. No other college or university in the state offers a doctorate in veterinary science or studies, although some offer undergraduate and masters degree programs in the field. Kentucky has a partnership with Auburn University and Tuskegee Universitys veterinary schools that allows Kentucky students to attend at in-state tuition rates. The bill was filed on Jan. 29 and sent to the House Agriculture Committee on Feb. 2. It passed out of that committee on Feb. 7. The bill has over 50 sponsors and the support of Murray State, but during this weeks committee meeting, several members of the Kentucky Veterinary Medical Association raised concerns about the distributed learning model proposed for the school, which would allow students and instructors to be in different locations during their courses. The proposed learning model would keep costs low while allowing instructor, students, and content to be located in different, noncentralized locations so that instruction and learning can occur independent of time and place, according to the Murray State feasibility study done last year. The model is similar to what Lincoln Memorial University uses. LMU is based in Tennessee, but offers distance learning in the students clinical year where they do not need to be in Tennessee. House Bill 407: Osteopathic medicine program at EKU House Bill 407, sponsored by Rep. David Meade, R-Stanford, would give Eastern Kentucky University the ability to add doctor of osteopathic medicine degrees required for professional practice and licensure in medicine. Osteopathic medicine considers the whole person: body, mind and spirit, and osteopathic physicians can practice in a variety of medical fields and specialties, according to the American Osteopathic Association. A similar program for osteopathic medicine exists at the University of Pikeville, a private college. There is not a program at a public university in Kentucky. The bill was filed on Jan. 30 and sent to the House Education Committee on Feb. 1. It will need to be approved by the education committee before proceeding. KYs public colleges affirm inclusivity as legislature considers DEI initiative ban Getting resources to Mississippi families in need just got a little easier. The Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services recently added the digital platform CarePortal to its tool belt. MDCPS partnered with adoption and child welfare agency Lifeline Children's Services to use CarePortal, a digital platform that connects churches with families and children in need. Lifeline is based in Birmingham, Alabama. Along with resources for children in need, the agency provides adoption assistance through private domestic and international adoption agencies in 18 states and 26 countries. The families CarePortal will serve come from a variety of situations such as low-income. The main goal is to engage families with MDCPS and get them much-needed resources, which local churches will provide. CarePortal launched in Hinds, Madison and Rankin counties on Wednesday. Lifeline, which has been a licensed child placing agency in Mississippi for 12 years, has begun to train local churches on how to use the program. The first request has already been submitted and fulfilled. CarePortal connects churches with families through qualified requesting agencies like MDCPS. If a social worker becomes aware of a child or family in need, they can post that need into the CarePortal database. On the other end, churches who have signed up to be a resource can see the needs that have been posted and choose to meet that need whether that be food, donations, clothes, furniture or more. Church communities interested in signing up can visit Lifeline's CarePortal online. Rick Morton, senior vice president of engagement for Lifeline, described the program as a modern expansion on the food pantry model that churches have implemented for decades. CarePortal closes the gap between collecting resources and putting the resources into the hands of families in need. "So let's say the need is that a family is working toward reunification," Morton said. "And, one of the things they need is furniture to outfit a bedroom so that their kids can come home. So, there might be a family that's connected to CarePortal that says, 'We have a set of bunk beds that we'd like to give.'" Beyond the initial help, CarePortal is designed to provide a lasting connection between the families and the church communities which can then provide ongoing support. Supreme Court hears private school case: MS Supreme Court listens to arguments over federal funding in private schools. See details Spike in infections: STIs spike in Mississippi: Jackson ranks third in nation, according to new CDC data Morton said the eventual big-picture goal is to connect CarePortal with every church in the Jackson-Metro area. For this first year, the goal is a bit more modest, but will still cover a high number of local churches. "Every church in the Jackson-Metro area has an opportunity to be able to play some sort of role," Morton said. This role remains important as economic challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic continue. These strains place an additional burden on federally-funded agencies like MDCPS. Lifeline is a privately-funded entity, meaning resources like CarePortal can help ease the strain. "We believe (CarePortal) is just one of those really great ways that private agencies and the community can come alongside government and that we can cooperate together to meet what is really a growing problem," Morton said. CarePortal is not a new program and has already been implemented in 32 other states since 2015, but this launch marks the first time Mississippi can utilize the platform. The three counties also serve as a pilot program for the entire state. Eventually, the program may serve churches from the northern corner of the state, to the Delta to the coast. Got a news tip? Contact Mary Boyte at mboyte@jackson.gannett.com This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Digital platform CarePortal launches in three MS counties An earthquake rattled Southern California early Friday afternoon. The temblor measured 4.7 on the Richter Scale, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The earthquake was reported near Malibu at about 1:45 p.m. PST, the USGS said. There were no immediate reports of injuries or damage to buildings. Earthquake likely related with Santa Monica Bay fault Susan Hough, a USGS seismologist in Pasadena, said the earthquake was most likely associated with the Santa Monica Bay fault. The earthquake itself was felt as far south as San Diego, and northward to Bakersfield. While smaller aftershocks are continuing to occur, she cautioned there's about a one in 20 chance a larger earthquake can happen in the next few days. "This is California and a larger earthquake can happen any time of day," Hough told USA TODAY. "But the probabilities just notched up a little bit." Hawaii: 5.7 earthquake reported on big island of Hawaii Fire department urges to prepare for aftershocks The Los Angeles Fire Department urged locals to prepare for an aftershock immediately. "If Inside When Shaking Starts: DROP, COVER, HOLD ON! Protect Your Head + Neck While Taking Cover Under Sturdy Furniture or Near a Sturdy Interior Wall, Away From Windows and Doorways Until Shaking Stop," the department said on social media. #Earthquake Felt Widely in #LosAngeles. Prepare NOW For Aftershocks. If Inside When Shaking Starts: DROP, COVER, HOLD ON! Protect Your Head + Neck While Taking Cover Under Sturdy Furniture or Near a Sturdy Interior Wall, Away From Windows and Doorways Until Shaking Stops. LAFD (@LAFD) February 9, 2024 The Red Cross reminded Californians to check on loved ones and to practice preparedness safety. "Just felt that quake?! We hope you dropped, covered and held on!" the LA office said. "Check on your loved ones and remember to practice preparedness safety drop, cover, hold on." Earthquake social media reactions Californians do not hesitate to flock to X (formerly Twitter) and other social media platforms to confirm whether an Earthquake occurred Everyone in Los Angeles coming to twitter to confirm there was an earthquake #earthquake pic.twitter.com/CXSgclQG5x cesar (@jebaiting) February 9, 2024 Holy crap that earth quake felt gnarly Zedd (@Zedd) February 9, 2024 Contributing: Eduardo Cuevas This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Malibu earthquake Friday measures 4.7; aftershocks rattle California At Monday night's city council meeting, Bartlesville's water supply was a key focus, leading to the approval of a new study, authorization of further testing and the initiation of a pilot program. With weekend rains further filling up Bartlesville water reservoirs, city staff breathed a sigh of relief that this year's summer won't be like the last. However, the city council and staff reaffirmed their commitment to solving the long-term water needs of the community. More: City announces public pools to remain closed unless water supply improves Water Utilities Director Terry Lauritsen champions Bartlesville's wastewater reuse project at a forum last year. Pilot program for water reuse The city has initiated a pilot study to examine the water reuse component of its wastewater treatment plant expansion, announced Water Utilities Director Terry Lauritsen. This exploratory study aims to ensure compliance with the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality standards. Once it is all up and running, Lauritsen will invite naysayers to tour the new wastewater reuse project. "I know I have a few people who have been fairly critical of the water reuse concept that I'm going to invite to tour the pilot plant process," Lauritsen said. " I think there are a lot of misconceptions about how clean the water does get." Lauritsen argued that no one could "determine or distinguish between drinking water from treated wastewater." However, Lauritsen quickly clarified that the pilot study does not imply an immediate implementation of the water reuse system for potable purposes. "We are still years out from meeting all of the regulatory steps that are required to operate the city's water reuse program for potable use," Lauritsen said. "This is simply another step in that process." Once operational, the water reuse system will perform additional treatment of wastewater before discharging it into the Caney River upstream of the raw water intake at Johnstone Park. Lauritsen explained that water reuse is designed only for emergencies like extreme drought or if the water in Hulah or Copan Lake dropped so low that the Army Corps of Engineers shut off the Caney River's flow. Additionally, the city council approved service contracts on Monday to monitor and test Contaminants of Emerging Concern (CECs). "These CECs include prescription and nonprescription drugs, home care products, antibiotics, industrial and household products, hormones, endocrine disrupters and engineered nanomaterials," Lauritsen said. "They would also include the PFASs, or the so-called 'forever chemicals' that we have discussed recently." Kaw Lake study On Monday, the council also approved funding for an engineering study to assess the viability of tapping into the water supply from Kaw Lake. The Water Resources Committee recommended the study to assess Kaw Lakes' water quality, access feasibility and the financial cost of tapping into the lake. Situated about 50 miles west of Bartlesville in Kay County, Kaw Lake has approximately 40 million gallons of water daily rights available, positioning it as a potential lifeline for the city's long-term water needs. Water Utilities Director Terry Lauritsen highlighted the city's ongoing efforts to explore sustainable water sources. "In 2006, the city partnered with the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers through the Planning Assistance to States program to determine raw water options for long-term water supply," Lauritsen said. "One of the options investigated was to access water in Kaw Lake." The initial study projected the pipeline, pump station and water storage rights expenses at $106 million. When adjusted to reflect current values, this estimate has risen to approximately $150 million, according to Lauritsen. City staff have expressed reservations about the estimate's accuracy, with some internal estimates closer to over $300 million, by comparing it to a similar project in Enid, which prompted the commissioning of the Kaw Lake Water Supply Study. More: Bartlesville's water supply is dwindling. Could Kaw Lake be the key to supplementing it? The study's crucial aspects include the compatibility of Kaw Lake's water with the city's treatment systems, options for raw water intake, pipeline alignment and a thorough evaluation of potential environmental impacts. Additionally, the study aims to outline the estimated costs associated with engineering, easements, environmental considerations and construction, along with the project's cost for different flow rates 14, 18, and 22 million gallons per day. The council approved a budget of $112,710 for the study, which is expected to be completed in five months. Comparisons of the current Bartlesville water supply watersheds to Kaw Lake. This article originally appeared on Bartlesville Examiner-Enterprise: City council focuses on potential water supply from Kaw Lake Top lawmakers from Estonia, Iceland, Denmark, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and Sweden left meetings in Washington Thursday concerned and frustrated about a lack of urgency from their American colleagues about the need to support Ukraine. The Nordic-Baltic delegation, comprised of the chairs of each of the countrys parliamentary foreign affairs committees, has traveled to the US capital on numerous occasions to meet with US lawmakers in both the House and Senate to rally for Ukraine as Russias full-scale invasion rages on. We came here, obviously, to show unity, to show our commitment and hoping that the Americans would hear us, Dilja Mist Einarsdottir of Iceland told reporters at a roundtable Thursday morning. We are leaving America a little bit sad, she said. The issue of US assistance to Kyiv which received widespread congressional approval at the outset of the war has faced growing Republican opposition. Congress has yet to pass legislation for additional funding to Ukraine after last years funding was expended. A Senate bill that tied Ukraine funding to border security measures was blocked on Wednesday. Following that failure, the Senate voted on Thursday afternoon to begin debate on a security spending package with aid to Ukraine. The European lawmakers, who were in Washington when the vote on the border and funding bill failed, said they are concerned that their US counterparts do not recognize the imperative for Ukraine to quickly receive continued US military support. Rihards Kols of Latvia noted that there wasnt a sense of urgency of what is happening. I got the notion that the war in Ukraine is something very far away, distant from the US, he said. We are so united as never before in Europe, and then you have this phenomenon of isolationism growing with every week in America. This is so strange, echoed Zygimantas Pavilionis of Lithuania. They acknowledged that the influence of former President Donald Trump and US domestic election considerations were likely playing a role. Estonian foreign affairs committee chairman Marko Mihkelson said that many of the lawmakers with whom he met actually sincerely support Ukraine. Many of them would like to see this bill passed as soon as possible. But they are very much afraid of results of their own elections in November, he said. What was striking was that they are not ready to go and make a case in their own constituencies about that, Mihkelson said. He and others in the delegation said it felt as though the lawmakers wanted them to do their job in making the case for Ukraine funding. Einarsdottir suggested that US lawmakers must be willing to act now, rather than considering the political future. Donald Trump is not president of the United States, she said. The people we are disappointed with they are actual people that hold actual powers. Of course, hes a very influential person. But at the end of the day, we believe that some very powerful, powerful people, currently powerful people that are holding actual powers and the United States, should do more, she said. The lawmakers worry about what message the continued lack of funding and therefore lack of weaponry is sending to Russia a concern that has also been voiced by the Biden administration. Theres a seriousness behind the fact that we are here now, Ine Eriksen Sreide of Norway said. Of course, we are concerned about US support for Ukraine. And I say that with quite a lot of solemnity because we are at a place right now where Europe, even though we are giving our fair share, and then some to Ukraine, both when it comes to weapons systems and money, we are not able to fill the gap if the US pulls out, she said. The lawmakers rejected criticism that Europe was not doing enough to contribute to Ukraine When some Republican congressmen and senators are saying you have to do more Were giving everything we have. So we cannot actually do that much more, Michael Aastrup Jensen of Denmark said. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Pairs of oxen pull a boat-shaped float with an iconic century-old sacred image of Virgin Mary breastfeeding infant Jesus standing on the bow, during the Our Lady of Remedies procession in the small town of Lamego, in the Douro River Valley, Portugal, Friday, Sept. 8, 2023. One of Portugal's largest and oldest religious festivals, the two-week celebrations that culminate with the procession, draw thousands. (AP Photo/Armando Franca) A horse rider holds a Mongolian flag during a traditional performance at a cultural event organized for the media and entourage following Pope Francis' visit to Mongolia, at the Mongolia Cultural Park, some 40 kilometers out of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, Friday, Sept. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini) Dean Wiberg, right, volunteers at the evangelical Crossroads Chapel tent, which distributes thousands of free Bibles during the Minnesota State Fair in Falcon Heights, Minn., on Thursday, Aug. 24, 2023. For many faith communities, the fair has long been an opportunity to reach a diverse crowd that can top two million. (AP Photo/Giovanna Dell'Orto) Maya Johnson, 7, of New York, is playfully swung into the lake by her friends during Camp Be'chol Lashon, a sleepaway camp for Jewish children of color, Friday, July 28, 2023, in Petaluma, Calif., at Walker Creek Ranch. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) Lebanese Maronite Christian Patriarch Beshara al-Rai, second left, leads the sermon to commemorate the Feast of the Transfiguration in the Cedars of God forest, in the northeast mountain town of Bcharre, Lebanon, Saturday, Aug. 5, 2023. For Lebanon's Christians, the cedars are sacred, these tough evergreen trees that survive the mountain's harsh snowy winters. They point out with pride that Lebanon's cedars are mentioned 103 times in the Bible. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar) A girl watches the sunset over the scenic Kadisha Valley, a holy landmark for Lebanon's Maronite Christians, in the northeast mountain town of Bcharre, Lebanon, Friday, July 21, 2023. For Lebanon's Christians, the cedars are sacred, these tough evergreen trees that survive the mountain's harsh snowy winters. They point out with pride that Lebanon's cedars are mentioned 103 times in the Bible. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar) Members of the Hebrew Israelite community rally outside of the District Court in Beersheba, Israel, ahead of a hearing on the deportation orders for dozens from their community, Wednesday, July 19, 2023. Over the decades, the community has made inroads into Israeli society, and most of them have citizenship or residency rights. But 130 members remain undocumented, and Israeli authorities have ordered them to leave. The orders have left dozens of people, some of whom have lived most of their lives in Israel, in an uncertain legal limbo.(AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo) A Star of David hands from a fence outside the dormant landmark Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh's Squirrel Hill neighborhood on Thursday, July 13, 2023, the day a federal jury announced they had found Robert Bowers, who in 2018 killed 11 people at the Tree of Life synagogue, eligible for the death penalty. The next stage of the trial with present further evidence and testimony on whether he should be sentenced to death or life in prison. It stands as the deadliest attack on Jewish people in U.S. history. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar/File) The memorial of the Rev. Maxim Andre of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts, on the peninsula of Kalaupapa, Hawaii, on Tuesday, July 18, 2023. (AP Photo/Jessie Wardarski) Paramacharya Sadasivanatha Palaniswami climbs the rocks along the Wailua river, which is sacred to many Native Hawaiians, at Kauai's Hindu Monastery on July 13, 2023, in Kapaa, Hawaii. The monastery was founded by guru Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami in 1970. (AP Photo/Jessie Wardarski) Paramacharya Sadasivanatha Palaniswami stands at the base of a Rudraksha tree, which produces a bright blue fruit at the Kauai Hindu Monastery on July 10, 2023, in Kapaa, Hawaii. The monks who reside at the temple monastery practice Shaivism, one of the major Hindu traditions, which worships Shiva as the supreme being. (AP Photo/Jessie Wardarski) Worshippers attend a Mass in the Sagrada Familia basilica in Barcelona, Spain, Sunday, July 9, 2023. With tourism reaching or surpassing pre-pandemic levels across Southern Europe this summer, iconic sacred sites struggle to find ways to accommodate both the faithful who come to pray and millions of increasingly secular visitors attracted by art and architecture. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti) A worker asks to a tour guide person to stop taking photos to tourists due to the start of the praying time at Byzantine-era Hagia Sophia mosque in Istanbul, Turkey, Wednesday, June 28, 2023. With tourism reaching or surpassing pre-pandemic levels across Southern Europe this summer, iconic sacred sites struggle to find ways to accommodate both the faithful who come to pray and millions of increasingly secular visitors attracted by art and architecture. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco) Firewalkers dance across a bed of burning coals in a ritual in honor of St. Constantine in the village of Lagkadas, Greece on Monday, May 22, 2023. Firewalking is the most spectacular and public of these annual rituals that also include dancing with icons, prayer, and shared meals by associations of devotees of the Christian Orthodox saint called "anastenaria" that have held similar celebrations for centuries. (AP Photo/Giovanna Dell'Orto) A sandstorm rolls into Dimona, Israel, as the Hebrew Israelite community marks New World Passover, an annual celebration of their 1967 exodus from the United States, Thursday, June 1, 2023. Now, dozens of their members are facing the threat of deportation. The community do not consider themselves Jewish, but they claim an ancestral connection to the Holy Land. (AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo) A shoe that belonged to a child victim of the former Nazi German death camp Auschwitz-Birkenau is scanned at the conservation laboratory on the grounds of the camp in Oswiecim, Poland, Wednesday, May 10, 2023. Most of the victims were Jews killed in dictator Adolf Hitler's attempt to exterminate the Jews of Europe. (AP Photo/Michal Dyjuk) Navy Chaplain Lt. Cmdr. Ben Garrett counsels a sailor in his quarters on the USS Bataan on Monday, March 20, 2023 at Norfolk Naval Station in Norfolk, Va. One of the chaplains' roles aboard the ship is help sailors deal with stress Navy life brings. (AP Photo/John C. Clark) Morning service concludes in the annex of the Cathedral Notre Dame du Congo in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sunday Jan. 29, 2023. The cathedral is being prepared for Pope Francis' visit to Congo and South Sudan for a six-day trip starting Jan, 31, hoping to bring comfort and encouragement to two countries that have been riven by poverty, conflicts and what he calls a "colonialist mentality" that has exploited Africa for centuries. (AP Photo/Jerome Delay) Pope Francis, second from left, looks at traditional dancers performing at the Martyrs' Stadium In Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023. Francis is in Congo and South Sudan for a six-day trip, hoping to bring comfort and encouragement to two countries that have been riven by poverty, conflicts and what he calls a "colonialist mentality" that has exploited Africa for centuries. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia) Loyola University basketball player, Tom Welch, shakes hands with Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, the team's official chaplain, before attending practice on Monday, Jan. 23, 2023, in Chicago. The beloved Catholic nun captured the world's imagination and became something of a folk hero while supporting the Ramblers at the NCAA Final Four in 2018. At the age of 103, Sister Jean is using her platform to publish her first book, "Wake Up with Purpose: What I've Learned in My First Hundred Years." In the memoir she tells her story and offers life lessons and spiritual guidance. (AP Photo/Jessie Wardarski) Munni Devi, front, wipes her tears as she and Shanta Devi leave their house, in Joshimath, in India's Himalayan mountain state of Uttarakhand, Jan. 19, 2023. Big, deep cracks had emerged in over 860 homes in Joshimath, where they snaked through floors, ceilings and walls, making them unlivable. Roads were split with crevices and multi-storied hotels slumped to one side. Authorities declared it a disaster zone and came in on bulldozers, razing down whole parts of a town that had become lopsided. (AP Photo/Rajesh Kumar Singh) Joshimath town is seen along side snow capped mountains, in India's Himalayan mountain state of Uttarakhand, Jan. 21, 2023. For months, residents in Joshimath, a holy town burrowed high up in India's Himalayan mountains, have seen their homes slowly sink. They pleaded for help, but it never arrived. In January however, their town made national headlines. Big, deep cracks had emerged in over 860 homes, making them unlivable. (AP Photo/Rajesh Kumar Singh) Svalbard Kirke member Lars-Olav Tunheim descends from Plataberget mountain during a hike in Longyearbyen, Norway, Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2023. As climate change impacts the Svalbard archipelago faster and deeper than the rest of the world, its pastor is helping the community of miners and environmentalists grapple with transformation in this unforgiving, awe-inspiring wilderness. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole) The Rev. Siv Limstrand lights candles at the church's cabin in Bolterdalen, Norway, Monday, Jan. 9, 2023. The cabin is used for retreats and church groups. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole) Participants lay face down on the grass during an integration circle at an ayahuasca retreat in Hildale, Utah, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022. Following each of the three ayahuasca ceremonies, Hummingbird Church asks their participants to partake in integration, or a group reflection and discussion, to help interpret messages they received from the ayahuasca. (AP Photo/Jessie Wardarski) An empty pitcher and shot sized cups sit on an altar during an ayahuasca ceremony hosted by Hummingbird Church in Hildale, Utah, on Friday, Oct. 14, 2022. Ayahuasca is a psychoactive brew that contains an Amazon shrub with the active ingredient, DMT, and a vine containing monoamine oxidase inhibitors that prevents the drug from breaking down in the body causing visions lasting several hours. (AP Photo/Jessie Wardarski) 2023 in religion: Images capture global expressions of faith, spiritualism In the searing heat of Mecca, throngs of Muslims from around the world converged for the annual Hajj pilgrimage. In the round-the-clock darkness of the polar night, a Lutheran pastor in the Norwegian Arctic archipelago of Svalbard persevered in her ministry to one of the worlds most remote towns. Associated Press photographers were on the scene there and in scores of other locales ranging from the flood-stricken mountains of northern India to the sacred volcano Mauna Kea in Hawaii. Their mission: Finding myriad ways to convey how faith and spiritualism, in their many forms, manifested themselves around the world in 2023. Captain Travis Stocker with the Tuscarawas County Sheriff's Office talks with two men about occupying what the city of New Philadelphia has deemed a homeless encampment off Fourth Street Extension SE on Wednesday, Jan. 31. The men said they do have other places to go for shelter. NEW PHILADELPHIA The residents of a homeless encampment have been given until March 31 Easter Sunday by the city of New Philadelphia to vacate the property or face legal consequences. The encampment is on a 6.12-acre tract off of Fourth Street Extension SE, a narrow road leading to the city's sewer plant on the Tuscarawas River. The property is owned by CSX Transportation and leased to New Philadelphia. The city uses a portion on Bank Lane as a playground. Another section is used to store excess fill dirt and concrete from construction work. New shelter: Friends of the Homeless to build new shelter at current site in New Philadelphia The encampment itself is in the midst of a dense thicket of saplings and brush, reached by narrow footpaths. There are a couple of structures in the midst of the thicket, as well as at least one tent. A large amount of debris is strewn along the footpaths. No solutions: Shelter has limited resources and city has no plan to address homelessness On Jan. 31, officers with the New Philadelphia Police Department and the Tuscarawas County Sheriff's Office came to post notices warning the residents to leave the property. There were three people in the encampment at that time two men and a woman. New Philadelphia Police officers posted a notice of trespass warning to people occupying what the city has deemed a homeless encampment on a piece of land off Fourth Street Extension SE, Wednesday, Jan. 31 in New Philadelphia. The notices read: "This notice is to inform you that you are trespassing on property owned/leased by the City of New Philadelphia, Ohio. You are hereby given notice that you are NOT authorized, permitted, or invited to enter or remain on the property located at: "Parcel No. 43-07783-000 Bank Lane Rear, New Philadelphia, Ohio "Please be advised that you have until March 31, 2024, to vacate the property or face potential legal consequences under Ohio Revised Code 2911.21." Seven or eight residents during summer months One of the encampment residents, Troy Baker, has been living there for a year. "I fell into some hard times, with some drugs and stuff like that, so I ended up out here," he said. He said he wasn't angry at police for their actions. "They're doing their job." During the summer months, as many as seven or eight people live there, he said. As to his future plans after vacating the encampment, Baker said he hoped to start a new life. "I'll go talk to some friends. They'll hook me up with somebody." 'It's been there long enough' Mayor Joel Day said the city has an obligation to make sure that something like a homeless encampment doesn't occur on leased property. "It's been there long enough. That is land we lease from CSX. We have the responsibility to not allow things like this on that land," he said. Makeshift shelters can be seen at what the City of New Philadelphia has deemed a homeless encampment off Fourth Street Extension SE on Jan. 31 in New Philadelphia. The land is private property. He added, "We've gotten complaints from downtown businesses about homeless people loitering, homeless people using drugs, having to pick up needles and alcohol containers. It's time that people move on and find other places to camp." On April 1, after the deadline expires, city workers will come in and clean up the property. Brush and timber on the land will be clear cut and any structures and debris will be removed, the mayor said. The hope is to turn it into a green space to dissuade people from creating an encampment. Assistance from Friends of the Homeless Officials with Friends of the Homeless of Tuscarawas County, which operates a homeless shelter in New Philadelphia, plan to help the residents of the encampment. Over the next couple of weeks, workers with the organization will visit the site and bring the residents some basic supplies, including deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes, toilet paper, gloves, hats, blankets and food. They will also gather information on the residents and make them aware of the shelter. This map depicts the approximate zone in which a homeless encampment currently exists on private property in New Philadelphia. "We're going try to have a conversation with them and convince them to do something different," said Calvin White, the shelter's executive director. "People are welcome to come here and utilize our services." Reach Jon at 330-364-8415 or at jon.baker@timesreporter.com. This article originally appeared on The Times-Reporter: New Philadelphia orders homeless to vacate encampment by end of March A former prime minister of Israel has accused Benjamin Netanyahu of needlessly prolonging the Gaza offensive and blocking the path to peace while kidnapped hostages are left to die. In a scathing condemnation, Ehud Olmert charged that Mr Netanyahus arrogance and manipulation had led to catastrophic security failures, allowing the Hamas attack which triggered the current conflict. He also warned that right-wing messianics and extremists brought into Israels governing coalition by the prime minister, are blocking the vital need for a settlement and have plans to cleanse Palestinians from their vision of a Greater Israel. Mr Olmerts strident criticism came as Mr Netanyahu snubbed the latest international attempt at a ceasefire, declaring that the war will continue until complete victory. Antony Blinken, the US secretary of state, left his fifth visit to the Middle East in the last four months with relations between the Israeli government and Washington reportedly at their worst since the conflict began. Speaking to The Independent, Mr Olmert said: Israel has received huge support from the West, from Rishi Sunak in Britain, from Olaf Scholz in Germany, Emmanuel Macron in France and, of course, from Joe Biden, who I got to know well. They have got opposition to this support from some people at home. How much longer will they be able to continue this support if this Israeli government will not even open up a narrow window to what may eventually become a peace agreement that will end this war? Mr Olmert served as deputy prime minister, acting prime minister, and then from 2006 to 2009 prime minister of Israel, having spent many years in the Likud party now headed by Mr Netanyahu. Mr Olmert began his political career as a hawk who opposed returning land seized in the six-day war and voted against the Camp David Accords. Former Israeli prime minister Ehud Olmert at a press conference while in office in 2009 (Getty) However, he later became the chief architect of the Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and came close to reaching an agreement on a two-state solution with Palestinian Authority (PA) president Mahmoud Abbas before it fell apart at the last. He argues that there needs to be a ceasefire followed by all conceivable efforts to rescue the hostages still being held. Failure to do this and continue a military mission no longer tenable while hostages remained captive, he held, would be absolutely unforgivable and something which will never be forgotten by the people of Israel. According to the latest Israeli intelligence estimates, 32 of the more than 130 hostages still held by Hamas are dead after four months of fighting. Until now the Israeli military had confirmed that 29 had lost their lives in captivity. Hostages who were freed in a deal last November appealed to Mr Netanyahu to negotiate a ceasefire and bring their loved ones home. Olmert with Joe Biden in 2006 (Getty) Speaking at a press conference in Tel Aviv on Thursday, they spoke of their fear that the captives will pay the price for the prime ministers pursuit of absolute victory. One of them, 72-year-old Adina Moshe, said: Im very afraid and very concerned that if you continue with this line of destroying Hamas, there wont be any hostages left to release. Everything is in your hands. Another, Sharon Aloni Cunio, 34, added: Weve reached the awful moment when you must decide who lives and who dies 136 hostages now wait in tunnels, without oxygen, without food, without water, and without hope, waiting for you to save them. The price is heavy, unbearable, but the price of negligence will become a stain for generations. Mr Olmert said Mr Netanyahu was trying to hide his governments failure to prevent the Hamas massacre by continuing with military action that has plainly unachievable aims. He said: The Hamas attack on 7 October was probably the greatest military defeat in the history of the state of Israel. We had a similar surprise in 1973 [the Yom Kippur war], but that attack was against soldiers, not civilians, and the outcome was very different when the army fought back quickly and aggressively. This time the trust of our people, civilians, was betrayed. They were attacked in their homes, and for hours and hours there was no military to save them. This was a devastating defeat for our country. Hamas seized hundreds of hostages, including women and children, in the 7 October attacks (AP) The prime minister of Israel is trying to make believe this never happened. He talks about destroying Hamas and removing them from the face of the earth. This is not humanly possible, not something that can be achieved. It is impossible to destroy a terrorist organisation hiding underground in the most crowded urban centre in the world, surrounded by civilians. Even when the war ends, Mr Netanyahu appears determined to follow policies that will massively damage Israel, according to Mr Olmert. Mr Netanyahu has vowed that Israeli forces will stay in Gaza. He is also determined, he has said repeatedly, to stop the PA from administering Gaza. Hard-right members of his cabinet, meanwhile, have advocated resettling Gaza and annexing the PA-run West Bank. Mr Olmert said: Israel should not keep an army of occupation in Gaza, that would be a very bad mistake. What needs to happen is an international force, with a strong Western presence, to be there. There are plans by people in this government to take over the West Bank as well. Do we really want to impose occupation on 5 million Palestinians, deny them fundamental human rights? Freedom of speech? Freedom of movement? I know the tide of opinion turned against the idea of a Palestinian state after the Hamas attack. But I believe that in a relatively short time people will come to terms with the need for a Palestinian state; there is no alternative to this which can work. The Israeli offensive in Gaza was necessary and inevitable after the Hamas atrocity and a very strong response was needed, Mr Olmert continued. Israeli forces have repeatedly bombed Gaza, causing hundreds of thousands to flee (AP) And we have done a very good job in a vigorous, impressive manner. We destroyed their bunkers, we have killed and captured many of their fighters, we have destroyed their [missile] launch sites, he said. But now there is no longer any point in staying on just to destroy two more tunnels and kill some more people when we have hostages that need to be rescued, to be brought home to their families. This has to be done through negotiations, and those negotiations can lead to a peace agreement. More than 27,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since the Israeli military mission began, according to the Hamas-affiliated Palestinian health authority. Mr Olmert said he did not know the veracity of the numbers, but accepted there have been large-scale civilian casualties. I ordered our forces to go into a war in Gaza when prime minister, he said. You cant do that and pretend that civilians wont be killed. I do not know how you can deal with terrorists who hide among people to attack you, without the risk of that happening. Lets not forget the barbarity of Hamas, the killing of children, women, old people, the sexual abuse, the brutality: we were shocked, we were full of grief, how could we not be? Mr Olmert, paused and looked away for a few seconds before continuing: Look, the death of a baby in the hands of Hamas is heartbreaking, it is terrible; the death of a baby in Gaza is also heartbreaking and terrible. Israeli soldiers went into Gaza within days of the Hamas attack (AP) Many of us personally knew people killed by Hamas. A friend, someone I have known since kindergarten was shot and had to lie pretending to be dead for 10 hours. Her husband, a lovely man, was killed in front of her. There are so many other such stories. But I also personally know people in Gaza, know what they are going through: families who have had their homes destroyed, people who have lost relations, families who are having to hide underground, frightened. That is the reason we try for peace, to try at least to prevent this happening in the future. I speak as someone who was not accused of being soft on our enemy when I was in government, I was accused of being too hard. Mr Olmert insisted that he has absolutely no regrets about his part in pulling out of Gaza in 2005: We had to have 30,000 soldiers stationed there to protect 10,000 Israeli settlers. Soldiers were getting killed, there were constant attacks. What was the wisdom in keeping that? He pointed out that Mr Netanyahu, who is now criticising that withdrawal from Gaza, had voted for it to take place. He was also responsible, Mr Olmert added, for freeing more than 1,000 Hamas prisoners, including Yahya Sinwar, who went on to become the groups head in Gaza, in exchange for Gilad Shalit, a kidnapped Israeli soldier. Netanyahu released hardened terrorists, the worst murderers. Then he allowed money to flow into Gaza, he helped Sinwar become powerful, said Mr Olmert, his finger jabbing in the air. Netanyahu has rejected a ceasefire and insists Israel is a touch away from a decisive victory (Sky News) There was this arrogance that the situation can be controlled, he gave this image that he was the top security expert in the world, he knew how to deal with Hamas, with Iran, with Syria. His government thought they could manipulate the situation. PA they saw as a burden; Hamas as an asset. Now we see the result of that miscalculation. Mr Olmert was convicted in 2015 in Jerusalem on charges of breach of trust, fraud, and tax evasion, much of it involving campaign contributions, and served 16 months in jail. He said of the conviction: The fact is that you may be a president and prime minister, a senior politician. But when the court decides youre guilty, you have to accept that and bow your head, which I did. He pointed out that Mr Netanyahu is also facing criminal charges of corruption, fraud, and breach of trust filed in 2019. It resumed last December after a two-month pause due to the Gaza war. Mr Netanyahu, who denies the charges, did not attend the hearing. Lets see how that goes, again it is up to the court what happens to the prime minister, said Mr Olmert. Mr Netanyahus need for political survival has led him to form a coalition with the hard right, some of whose leaders want wholesale expulsion of Palestinians from Gaza and the West Bank. A senior minister has armed Israeli settlers in the West Bank who have gone on murderous rampages, driving out Palestinian farmers from their land. What is happening there is absolutely horrible, farmers being killed, their homes and olive groves destroyed. For these people in Netanyahus government, messianics and extremists, Gaza is just a preliminary stage of a bigger plan, to get rid of Palestinians from the West Bank and annex it, said Mr Olmert. What I am saying about these people is the view of most Israeli people, the international community needs to know the vast majority of the Israeli people are totally against this. We are not going to let them throw Palestinians out of the West Bank, we shall put our bodies in the way of them, we have to stop it. This is not just for the sake of Palestinians, but also of Israel, we cannot let the values we hold be destroyed by these people. But, despite the current dark days, Mr Olmert says he is full of optimism: Therell be elections in Israel and well have a new government. There are people who can provide the leadership of courage, including the courage to make peace, integrity and moral obligation. I also know people on the Palestinian side who are capable, talented and can lead their people. I am sure we will get through this together. I have great hope for the future. Multiple shocks to global supply chains brought about first by the pandemic and more recently by Iran-backed Houthis targeting cargo ships in the Red Sea have shown theres a need for greater resilience in global shipping. At the same time, the pressure to reduce both costs and carbon footprints continues apace. Quietly, investors are eyeing up tech platforms for ports and cargo ships, which could prove to be a very savvy investment. There are already several signs this is happening. Most recently, Portchain a Danish startup that claims to be a "neutral exchange" for cargo ships and ports, has now raised a $5 million "Seed+" funding round from Angular Ventures. Other investors include MK Ventures, and several former shipping executives. Portchain works by facilitating constant communication between a cargo ship and a port, acting something like air traffic control to make sure that a ship arrives just at the right time to be docked, rather than waiting outside the port, burning fuel, polluting the atmosphere and racking up costs. CEO Niels Kristiansen explained the problem to me thus: The top 10 carriers represent 85% of global volume. But carriers and terminals operate in a very different way. Carriers know how carriers operate and they don't know enough about how terminals operate, and vice versa. So what happens is that the carrier will arrive at a terminal and will say I have this data system. And then the terminal says, You're a carrier so you don't know how I operate. In the end, both end up sharing and planning through email, phone calls, and WhatsApp. Its a mess. Instead, long before theyve reached their destination, Portchain allows ship captains to adjust their speed in order to dock just at the right time, just like a plane landing at an airport. In the meantime, this removes the need to update spreadsheets, emails and PDF documents (which is how many systems are run today). Portchain claims that as a result, CO 2 emissions of up to 14% can be saved, with no modification to the vessels significant since it is estimated that shipping burns over 117,800,000 tonnes of fuel annually. And neutrality in these systems is important. Although shipping giant Maersk launched the "Tradelens" project in 2018, it hit problems when it needed rival firms to share data. The venture subsequently shut down last year. Portchain now claims to have signed up 90 container terminals globally (20% of the world's terminal capacity) and has signed a five-year agreement with Hapag-Lloyd, the fifth largest shipping line. However, Portchain isnt the only player in this field, which is clearly heating up. PortXChange, which is based in Rotterdam, spun out as a separate project from the Port of Rotterdam and became an independent company in 2019. Its strategic partners include Shell and Maersk. Heyport in Hamburg was funded and incubated by the local German port operator HHLA. Then there is Awake.ai, headquartered in Finland. Awake has so far raised a total of around $12 million according to CEO Karno Tenovuo. He and his team were formerly part of a Rolls Royce unit which looked at "smart shipping." With Finnish government funding, Angel and EU backing (but not VC to date) Tenovuo said: Last year we launched what we call the "Amazon for ports." This is marketplace functionality. Carriers and ports are using emails and phone calls. So we got funding from the EU to develop this product, which automates the buying and selling of Port services and reporting and invoicing. We match the buyers and sellers automatically. We predict where those products or services are needed then we can recommend all the optimal arrival and departure times and tell the shipping companies what's their impact in fuel costs emissions, he added. However, he said there is not a lot of overlap between Awake and Portchain. Meanwhile, the International Maritime Organisation has regulated that there needs to be a "national single window" for when ships enter an area controlled by a nation. That means more and more technology will have to be employed to assist both carriers and ports. As Tenovuo says, this single window will mean there will be a huge need to "link all the services. So, for now, its likely that these kinds of services will continue to launch, and continue to keep investors interested. WASHINGTON A federal judge ordered Peter Navarro, who was a trade adviser to former President Donald Trump, to be jailed while he appeals his conviction for contempt of Congress for defying a subpoena. Navarro, who faces four months in jail, refused to testify or provide documents to the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack. Navarro argued that Trump had asserted executive privilege to keep their communications confidential and block his testimony. But U.S. Judge Amit Mehta found no evidence Trump invoked executive privilege. Even if Trump had asserted the privilege, Navarro would have still had to appear before the committee and invoke the privilege, Mehta ruled. The committee could have asked him questions unrelated to Navarros communications with Trump, including his efforts to overturn the 2020 election. The Bureau of Prisons has not yet contacted Navarro around a date for reporting, one of his lawyers, John Rowley, said Friday. Navarro plans to appeal to the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals and to ask that court to hold off on jailing him until the case is resolved, Rowley said. Former Trump White House official Peter Navarro talks to the media as he arrives at U.S. Federal Courthouse in Washington on Jan. 25, 2024. The House committee sought to question Navarro because, in his 2021 book "In Trump Time," Navarro described a scheme to delay certification of President Joe Biden's 2020 election he called the "Green Bay Sweep" and said it was the "last, best chance to snatch a stolen election from the Democrats jaws of deceit." The committee said in its letter to Navarro that he had said Trump and "more than 100 members of Congress were 'on board with the strategy.'" The committee also said Navarro released a three-page report on his website that repeated claims of purported fraud in the election that have been discredited by state and local officials. Navarro was convicted in September and sentenced Jan. 25 to four months in jail and fined $9,500. On Thursday, Mehta ruled that Navarro would be jailed pending his appeal because the issues he was raising were potentially doubtful or frivolous. Mehta didn't set a deadline for Navarro to be jailed but left it to the Bureau of Prisons. The bureau doesn't release information about a potential prisoner until after the person is detained. Navarro has asked the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals to overturn his conviction and sentence. The appeals court must now decide whether to let him remain free while considering the appeal. Navarro is one of four people the House voted to recommend the Justice Department prosecute during the Jan. 6 probe. Political strategist Steve Bannon was also convicted, sentenced to four months in jail and has appealed. But the department decided against charging former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows and former deputy chief of staff Dan Scavino. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Judge orders former Trump aide Peter Navarro jailed during contempt appeal In the debate over Israel and the Palestinians, I once supported a one-state solution rather than a two-state solution. I formerly thought that Israel should absorb both the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, but change its name to Israel-Palestine, and change the flag so that it did not identify the country with one religion over another. I have since changed my mind, but neither do I support a two-state solution, with Israel and Gaza-West Bank as the two countries in the area between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea. Having a Palestinian state on two different sides of Israel would not work any better than having a West Pakistan and East Pakistan on either side of India did. I recommend a three-state solution: Israel, Gaza, and the West Bank as three different countries, each with its own government. Then Israel could negotiate with each of the other states separately, toward peace agreements. For example, there could be a peace agreement between Israel and an independent Gaza that neither would attack each other, and a peace agreement between Israel and an independent West Bank, that neither would attack each other. That would be an improvement over the current situation. Daniel Haulman, Montgomery This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: Letter: Israel should be divided into three different countries Will seven Western states be able to rapidly craft a voluntary plan to keep the Colorado River afloat for decades to come? Its increasingly unclear, as negotiations have foundered between two sides, according to key players. There are sharp differences between northern and southern states' proposals, with representatives of the mountainous Upper Basin states of Colorado and New Mexico unwilling, to date, to shoulder large future cuts, both because of historic underuse of their share of the river and because of heavily populated California and Arizona's historic overuse. The southwestern states have for years taken twice as much as their northern neighbors. Major progress appears to be brewing on another front. Upper Basin officials, including Colorado's plainspoken river commissioner, Becky Mitchell, said they have been informed of a proposal under discussion by California, Arizona and Nevada, collectively known as the Lower Basin, where the Lower Basin and Mexico would agree to take 1.5 million acre-feet of water less from the shrinking river each year. Mitchell said far more details are needed. That amount would be enough to both to make up for evaporation and leakage from delivery canals snaking across the hot desert, and to help stabilize the nations largest reservoirs, based on a report released Thursday by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation that showed average annual losses to evaporation and river banks of 1.3 million acre-feet in the Lower Basin. Lower Basin officials, including California's Colorado River commissioner JB Hamby, who is leading the state's negotiating team, declined to confirm numbers while they hash out specifics, but pointedly said major reductions need to be contributed by every state. One California official did confirm the numbers. Arizona Department of Water Resources Director Tom Buschatzke speaks to the press during the governor's weekly news conference at the state Capitol on June 1, 2023, in Phoenix. Tom Buschatzke, Arizona's top representative on the river talks, also wouldn't confirm the 1.5 million acre-feet number, but emphasized the structural magnitude of what the Lower Basin is offering to do, noting his state and California, with help from Nevada and Mexico, would address evaporation and leakage for decades to come, and contribute more atop that to help stabilize the system. But, he said, more needs to be done, by everyone. "It's hugely important for folks to know that the Lower Basin is going to step up, and that we see a desire and a need for the rest of the problem to be solved collectively," he said. "We can't do it all. It is not physically possible." Federal officials say the wet winters and commitments to major conservation through 2026 have reduced the chances of Lake Mead falling below critical levels to just 4%, and of Lake Powell to 8% in the next three years. But far more than 1. 5 million acre-feet as much as 4 million acre-feet in dry years will likely be needed as climate change amps up extended droughts, experts say. Others disagree on where further cuts should be made. "I think the lion's share of that needs to come from the Lower Basin, from the ones who are using it," said Estevan Lopez, New Mexicos representative on Colorado River policy, and a former U.S. Bureau of Reclamation Commissioner under President Obama. He acknowledged that the Lower Basin states disagree, and said, "the conversation has gotten a little rough." I don't want to say that we don't have to do anything. That's not what I'm saying. But it cannot be a one-to-one reduction with the Lower Basin," he said. For now, negotiations between the two sides have ground to a halt, even as a deadline looms to produce a draft agreement by next month. The last time representatives from all seven states met face to face was in early January, when they convened at the Woolley's Classic Suites, at Denver Airport. Since then, at the urging of U.S. Reclamation Commissioner Camille Calimlim Touton, there have been two Zoom calls with all the states that highlighted the fundamental differences, one participant said. The northern states recently invited their southern counterparts to Salt Lake City to resume full talks, but none chose to attend. "We'll keep inviting them," Mitchell said. "I do not think we are at an impasse, and I do not believe we need to be at an impasse." Lake Powell as seen on April 23, 2023, near Page. Lake Powell was at 24% of capacity, 175 feet below its full elevation of 3,700 feet above sea level. To kickstart talks again, Mitchell says the Lower Basin states simply need to respond to a fairer, more flexible framework that the northern states have proposed, and be willing to live within the same constraints they have endured moving forward, as well as ensuring compensation for northern tribes who have not used their rivers supplies. Asked about what the Upper Basin states had proposed, California commissioner Hamby said "no comment," but did say, "There is no path forward that will be successful where .... the entirety of the pain of future drought and shortage ... would fall on one basin or another, or one user or another. The only successful path forward is for everyone to compromise." States in the northern Upper Basin of the Colorado River say they have been forced to use about half of their share of the river in recent years, while those in the Lower Basin have used or lost to evaporation and seepage twice as much as them. Mitchell said in addition to agreeing to the framework, far more details are needed on the Lower Basin's proposal. "So one and a half million acre-feet, how that's calculated and where it's coming from is incredibly important," she said. Im excited to see the Lower Basins willingness to conserve. Now comes the hard part: keeping verifiable, wet water in (Lake) Mead. It will be difficult, and I look forward to seeing their plans materialize. We have not yet seen any specifics." Much of the savings could potentially mirror earlier agreements, which have left water in Lake Mead, but also allowed the Lower Basin states to keep using more than their annual allocations. An acre-foot is enough to supply about three California households, so 1.5 million acre-feet would on paper be enough to supply half a million residences in dry years, though almost 80% of Colorado River water is used for agriculture. Into thin air: Evaporation a major factor Reclamation's Thursday report shows about 860,000 acre-feet of Colorado River water was lost to evaporation annually between 2017 and 2021 from Lake Mead to the border with Mexico, and 445,000 acre-feet was lost to evaporation and transpiration from natural vegetation and habitats, or about 10% of the river's average yearly total flow. That lines up with the highest amount that the three southwestern states are discussing to make up for evaporation. They could also add another 300,000 acre-feet that would be held back in the nation's two largest reservoirs to gradually build back elevation levels. Both Lake Mead and Lake Powell nearly collapsed last year, after almost two decades of record drought. The federal agency is expected to release a second data report soon that might or might not help, on consumptive use by both sides over the past five years. A reclamation spokesman did not respond to requests for comment on the reports or the negotiations. State negotiators praised Thursday's report. "California is grateful that Reclamation compiled this comprehensive assessment of system losses in the Lower Basin, its a helpful factual basis to inform ongoing discussions," Hamby said in an email. "The Lower Basin is working at light speed to determine how it will address the supply-demand imbalance and rebuild resiliency into management of the river. This is an historic and massive undertaking." But, he added, "We need to have productive conversations with our partners in the Upper Basin about how they can do their part and meet their downstream obligations to the Lower Basin and Mexico under the Colorado River Compact." Mitchell also said she is "grateful to see the Bureau of Reclamations report" and added, "the Lower Basin has never accounted for these losses." Representatives for all three Lower Basin states announced in December that they would account for the evaporation and seepage moving forward. Wet winters not nearly enough Lake Mead is currently about 40 feet higher than it was projected to be at this time last year, federal officials said Thursday, thanks to healthy winter snowpack last winter and increasing heavy storms in recent weeks, along with conservation measures. Federal officials said the wet winters and commitments to major conservation through 2026 had reduced the chances of Lake Mead falling below critical levels to just 4%, and of Lake Powell to 8% in the next three years. But millions more acre-feet of reductions are needed in coming dry years. Snow from the Upper Basin states are what supplies the Colorado River and is tributaries. But Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming have no huge dams holding surplus water for their populations, and during the extended drought used half or less of what they are legally entitled to, with farmers, tribes and small towns often facing empty streams or padlocked water diversion channels. Meanwhile, Mitchell said, they were required under the terms of the expiring 2007 guidelines to keep sending water downstream to the Lower Basin states, who continued using or losing to evaporation and seepage more than 10 million acre-feet annually through the tough drought years, well above their annual allocation of 7.5 million acre-feet. A map prepared by Colorado water officials shows where Colorado River water comes from. It describes shortages they and other northern states have experienced due to drought and diversions to reservoirs they can't access. . Mitchell has spoken bluntly about the overuse. In an interview with a Colorado Springs TV station last week, she said the Lower Basin states, rather than living within their water budget, had for years had depleted their "checking account," Lake Mead, and their savings account, Lake Powell, "and now they're trying to use their brother's credit card" the Upper Basin's already overtaxed streams and smaller reservoirs. "That's not appropriate water management," she said. "Living on a water budget will be hard for the Lower Basinwe do not want to suggest otherwise," she said in an email to The Desert Sun. "We know because we have been living on a tight water budget in the Upper Basin for decades. But if we want to sustain this system that 40 million people depend on, we must all start by living within the means of what the river provides." That type of talk has left some negotiators in the Lower Basin states seething, though they declined to be identified because of the "sensitive' nature of the proceedings. Arizona in particular has endured large cuts in recent years, and the three southern states combined have far larger populations living on less land than their neighbors to the north. The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California provides drinking water to agencies serving 19 million people in greater Los Angeles and San Diego, and has also conserved large amounts of water in Lake Mead. The clock is ticking. Mindful of the fast-approaching national elections, federal and state officials are pushing to finalize a voluntary agreement by the end of this year, even though they have until Dec. 31, 2026, before current operational guidelines for the river system expire. The concern isn't entirely about a different president or Congress, but that key officials with whom the states have developed strong relationships could be replaced, Buschatzke said. To have an approved plan by year's end, federal officials told the states they'd need a draft by March. A snow-covered peak in the San Juan Mountains near Telluride, Colo., is seen on April 23, 2015. The ice box is emptying Both basins and all seven states are faced with the increasingly tough math of supplying more than 30 million people and thousands of farmers with water from the system, even as it has shrunk by 20% on average. Despite recent rains and snows, the trends are unmistakable, said Elizabeth Koebele, a University of Nevada Reno political scientist who researches Colorado River policy. She and others say the recent unprecedented 19-year mega-drought offered clear evidence of a warming atmosphere. Longtime seasonal cycles like the "winter icebox" that stored snow and ice in the Rockies, the San Juan Mountains and other areas and then released it during spring thaws are being altered, with less snow falling. Soil is also hotter, meaning water evaporates faster, not making it to critical tributaries and the river's main stem. Upper Basin officials say that is a reality they have lived with for decades, with no giant reservoirs to capture water and hold it for gradual release below Glen Canyon Dam the demarcation point between the two basins or lengthy canals to distribute it widely. Mitchell says even farmers with "senior" rights to water in her state must take what they can get each year and it is often not enough. One tribe in the southwestern corner of Colorado received just 10% of its legal allocation in 2023, she said. "We are on the front line of climate change, we are living it every day," said Mitchell, saying the three Upper Basin states had to cut use by an average combined 1.3 million acre-feet each year due to a lack of snow and warmer temperatures. Each basin was assigned 7.5 million acre-feet of water in a seminal 1922 compact, and Mexico was granted 1.5 million acre-feet under a separate treaty, with each of the U.S. basins supplying half of that if necessary, for a total of 16.5 million acre-feet. But there has typically not been that much water flowing through the system, with an annual average of about 12 million acre-feet. Now, as climate change takes hold, all the states are looking for extra supply, like an unemployed person faced with bills scrounging for change in coat pockets and sofa cushions. Multiple solutions? 'Silver buckshot' rather than silver bullet Both sides say they don't want to reopen the 1922 compact, and there is some agreement on a suite of available options, dubbed a "silver buckshot" rather than a single silver bullet approach by veteran southern Nevada negotiator John Enstminger. A consortium of environmental groups is also working on their own draft plan. New Mexico Director Lopez told The Desert Sun that while he had not calculated final numbers, the northern states could potentially contribute another 50,000 acre-feet annually, to be pooled and held back for especially dry years, both from early or additional releases of water from smaller, upstream reservoirs to the large ones, and via ramping up a voluntary farm conservation program. But he said that water should be banked and held back for especially dry years, not sent downstream when the southwestern states request more than their allocation. A pilot version of an Upper Basin farm conservation program had limited success, yielding about 37,000 acre-feet from four states, compared to a program run by the Imperial Irrigation District, for instance, that netted 163,000 acre-feet in 2021, and 1.15 million-acre feet since its inception in 2013. Lopez said IID works with hundreds of farmers in one valley, rather than thousands scattered across four states, but he and others said improvements could be made to the Upper Basin program. Koebele noted prices offered to northern farmers were far lower than those paid to southwestern growers, and she also suggested better outreach to farmers distrustful of losing water. Koebele said there are areas where the Lower Basin could give relief to the Upper Basin the 1922 compact gives them the right to issue a mandatory "call" for Upper Basin water, for instance, which has never been done but has become a greater threat. She suggested easing that and implementing a more flexible demand system could relax tensions. But she said "the time is probably past" for the upper basin states to do significant new development that would require more large supplies of river water, despite assertions by Mitchell that they had a right to the water and could do it sustainably. Cracked earth is visible in an area once under the water of Lake Mead at the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Jan. 27, 2023, near Boulder City, Nev. Long odds, but not abandoning hope The states have deadlocked before and eventually hammered out a deal. Just a year ago in January, after holing up at the same Woolley's motel, six states announced one plan to prop up the river in the short-term by saddling California, Mexico and Lower Basin tribes with larger cuts, and the next day, Hamby, just weeks into the job, announced a separate plan that would have required Arizona in particular to reduce lots more. But by May, all seven states had resolved their differences and announced a joint plan that federal officials accepted as a proposed action, and are still reviewing for potential environmental impacts. Still, "there's a lot of work to be done in a short period of time, and much has yet to be worked out to date," said Hamby. "I would not want to put odds on it," said Lopez of the likelihood of a seven state draft being produced by next month. "I am optimistic ... that people perhaps for the first time understand the magnitude of the problem." He said while there have been discussions about different interpretations of court decisions, legislative actions and operating agreements, no one wants to end up suing the other side or facing mandatory cuts by federal authorities. "I think we all understand and understand very well ... that the very best we can do is trying to come to an agreement amongst ourselves. ... If we decide to go to war over this. I think that's the wrong answer." Janet Wilson is senior environment reporter for The Desert Sun and co-authors USA Today Climate Point. She can be reached at jwilson@gannett.com This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Long-term Colorado River rescue plan at an impasse? North vs. south in West A 29-year-old man whom police tried to stop for running a red light in Wilmington now also faces charges he led law enforcement through northern New Castle County initially in a car, but when he crashed it, then by foot and when police caught him, he punched two officers in the face. The two officers, both from the New Castle County Police Department, did not require medical attention. The man was being held in Howard R. Young Correctional Institution Friday morning after failing to post $18,500 bail. In recent years, Delaware Online/The News Journal has changed its approach to covering crime and courts and typically does not identify people charged for all but the most serious cases. Delaware Online also does not typically publish press releases on criminal charges unless the crime has a larger impact on the public or involves a public official. The incident began Wednesday night in Wilmington where police there said city officers saw a Chevrolet Malibu run a red light. Wilmington officers tried to stop the car, but the driver fled. Wilmington officers chased the Malibu, but the pursuit ended with the driver continuing to flee toward Governor Printz Boulevard, New Castle County police said. A little before 8:40 p.m., county police were dispatched to the 300 block of Forrest Ave. in Claymont where they found a crashed Chevrolet Malibu that was on fire. The car was unoccupied, but officers were able to determine it was the vehicle involved in the chase in Wilmington 5 miles away. Officers, along with a canine team, checked the surrounding area and found the Malibu driver almost a mile away near the 3700 block of Philadelphia Pike. Upon seeing the officers, county police said the man ran. Officers chasing the man used a stun gun, but it was ineffective. While fleeing, police said the man was reaching into his waistband and pockets. Havok, a county police canine, then tried to stop the man, but the man continued running and resisting. When officers tried to arrest the man, police said, he began punching, striking two officers. With the help of the canine, the man was arrested and taken to a local hospital. After the man was released from the hospital, he was charged with two felony counts of resisting arrest with force or violence, two misdemeanor counts of offensive touching of law enforcement, five misdemeanor counts of menacing, leaving the scene of a collision, reckless driving and aggressive driving. Wilmington police have charged the man with disregarding a police officer signal, failure to stop at a stop sign and failure to stop at a red light. Send tips or story ideas to Esteban Parra at (302) 324-2299 or eparra@delawareonline.com. More: Man dies weeks after being pulled from Trolley Square house fire in Wilmington This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Man charged with crashing car in Claymont, punching 2 officers Off the coast of Australia, an enormous sea creature with thousands of teeth approached a boat and surprised the anglers onboard. A video captured the rare visitor. Thomas DEmilio was fishing near Kgari island when his friend Toby began feeling seasick, DEmilio told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. The pair went ashore for a while, then decided to try again. We noticed some birds, so we went over to see if there was any mackerel or tuna with them, DEmilio told the outlet. Then all of a sudden, a whale shark. DEmilio posted a video of the rare sighting on TikTok on Feb. 6. (Warning: This video includes language that some viewers may find offensive.) The video shows the massive whale shark approach the boat and come close enough for the anglers to touch it. I just touched a whale shark, DEmilio said in the video. The large white-spotted animal seems unfazed by the brief touch and the nearby boat. The Australian Broadcasting Corporation shared a video of the encounter on Facebook. In it, the whale shark is seen slowly swimming around the boat. Whale sharks are the largest fish in the world, reaching up to 46 feet and nearly 24,000 pounds, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Despite their size and more than 3,000 tiny teeth, these sharks are filter feeders and considered harmless to humans. Although whale sharks are common in some areas of Australia, they are rarely seen near Kgari, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported. The islands last sighting was four years ago. Still cant believe it, DEmilio wrote in the caption of the TikTok video. If (Toby) wasnt feeling seasick we would have been out further and missed it all, DEmilio told the Australian Broadcasting Company. Kgari, sometimes called Fraser Island, is an island off the northeast coast and about 590 miles northeast of Sydney. DEmilio did not immediately respond to McClatchy News request Feb. 8 for comment. Extremely rare sea creature leaps out of water and stuns scientists in Australia Splishy splashes. Watch elephant have a ball in storms aftermath at California zoo Splishy splashes. Watch elephant have a ball in storms aftermath at California zoo Another rare photo of Harriet Tubman has been released by a Maryland tour group, this one capturing her at the age of about 70. Alex Green, owner of Harriet Tubman Tours, told The Auburn Citizen the 1892 photo comes from an edition of The Household Magazine. Tubman is pictured wearing a dark dress with a decorative collar and a hair pin. Below the photo, she is referred to as "Harriet, the Modern Moses, now living in Auburn, N.Y." An article with the photo includes a lengthy quote from Tubman about her visit as a teen to the Bucktown General Store in Dorchester County, Maryland, where she was struck in the head by a 2-pound weight thrown by a slaveowner at another enslaved person. The weight fractured her skull, resulting in epilepsy and what she believed were spiritual visions that she experienced for the rest of her life. Green noted that the quote is an example of "plantation dialect," which racistly stylizes the speech of Black people. Tubman biographer Kate Clifford Larson posted the photo on her Facebook page on Wednesday, calling the civil rights icon "beautiful" and commenting, "such style!" The biographer thanked Green and his wife, Lisa, for finding the photo. In comments below her post, Larson expressed hope that the original could be found as well. Harriet Tubman Tours previously released a rare photo of the group's namesake in December. That photo, from 1908, pictured her standing in front of her home on South Street in Auburn. Green said he hopes the photos generate more interest in Tubman, her life and her work to achieve freedom for all. "I thought it'd be interesting to move the needle forward with her wonderful life," he told The Citizen in December. "History has so much to catch up to." Gallery: Photographs of Harriet Tubman Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) brushed off the idea of throwing his name in the ring to lead the Republican National Committee (RNC) as it seeks to regroup following several challenging election cycles. No, no, no, McCarthy told reporters Thursday night, waving his hand when asked about the possible role by NBCs Vaughn Hillyard. McCarthy, who left Congress at the end of 2023, was at the Treasure Island Hotel and Casino on the Las Vegas Strip for former President Trumps Nevada caucuses victory party. Trump has said he will make recommendations for the future of the RNC after the South Carolina GOP primary later this month, where polls show him leading former former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley. The RNC has trailed Democrats in recent fundraising, and Trump has complained that the national party isnt doing enough to support him. Allies of the former president have urged the party to coalesce around his bid to take on President Biden in November after Trump won the Iowa caucuses and New Hampshire primary last month. Embattled RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel is expected to step down from the post after the Feb. 24 primary in South Carolina. McCarthy, who has long been a Trump ally though has acknowledged the pair have an interesting relationship, left Congress at the end of December after suffering an embarrassing ouster from the Speakership just nine months into the role. Eight Republicans helped Democrats vote him out of the post, and the House GOP spent the next couple of weeks determining his replacement before settling on House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.). When McCarthy announced his retirement from Congress after nearly 17 years in the seat, he said he was considering working to link the realms of artificial intelligence (AI) and politics. AI is where California is going to come back, he told Axios last year. The knowledge and capability of AI is streaming from California. A prolific campaign fundraiser, McCarthy said he would continue to lift GOP candidates and plans to write a memoir. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. During a presentation to the Senate Education Committee on Thursday, Interim Department of Education Director Raymond Morgigno told lawmakers the state has exceeded pre-pandemic academic scores in math and English. Morgigno told legislators that according to the latest Mississippi Academic assessments, which test proficiency in third and fourth grade students statewide, 46.7% of students are proficient or advanced in English, literature and arts in 2023. That numbers marks a 12% increase from 2021, and a 41.6% increase from 2019. In math, 52.6% of students showed proficiency, which marks a 17% increase from 2021 and about a 5% increase from 2019. We are one of the only states in the country that actually is not only getting back to but has exceeded pre pandemic (scores), Morgigno said. Morgigno told the Clarion Ledger since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, MDE has implemented literacy coaches in schools, helped partner with Accelerate Mississippi to place career coaches in high schools, among other thigs, to improve education for students around the state. There has been hard work done from our teachers, our administrators, our students, parents and everyone that has been working together, Morgigno said. We've been really proud of our students and our staffs across the state. Morgigno told lawmakers that students in high school are also obtaining higher American College Test scores, now sitting at around a 17.9, while the highest scored have been as high as 19.9. Senate Education Committee Chairman Dennis DeBar, R-Leakesville, speaks about the importance of the passage and signing of the teacher pay raise bill in 2022. On Thursday, the Education Committee heard from the Mississippi Department of Education about increased reading and math scores. Students have also been scoring at the fourth tier in a five tier ACT Work Keys program, which tests students on foundational work skills. 65.8% of students scored In the fourth tier or higher from 2022 to 2023, marking a 5% increase from the previous year. MAEP FUNDING request Morgigno told lawmakers MDE is requesting $2.9 billion to fund its Mississippi Adequate Education Program, which provides operational funds to school districts to provide an adequate level of education for every student in the state. That request is marginally higher than the previous, 2022 to 2023 request, which was about $2.7 billion, Chief of Operations Felicia Gavin said. In 2023, the legislature approved funding MAEP with $2.4 billion, Morgigno said. To make up for the shortfall, he said school districts have relied on about $90 million in Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief program. Though, those funds will sunset in September. Gavin said school districts also have other funding sources to make up for any potential losses from MAEP and MDE has not seen any district lack a serious amount of funding because of the shortfall. After the meeting, Senate Education Committee Chair Dennis DeBar, R, representing George, Greene and Wayne counties, told the Clarion Ledger he thought the presentation by MDE was very informative for new senators on the committee. Every session, especially the first year of a new term when we have new members on the committee, I think it's always important to least let the department present and talk about their ideas, where they're going and where theyve been, and the look to the future, DeBar said. Grant McLaughlin covers state government for the Clarion Ledger. He can be reached at gmclaughlin@gannett.com or 972-571-2335. This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: MS Senate Committee hears about increased reading, math scores Thursday Jewel Bruner holds her 10-month-old granddaughter Emma on the patio of her home in Eagle Butte on Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2023. Three bills were introduced last year at the South Dakota Legislature to address Native American child welfare reform. All of them were defeated, with opponents citing concerns about the U.S. Supreme Courts impending case addressing the Indian Child Welfare Act, known by the acronym ICWA. The court has since upheld the constitutionality of the federal law, and another batch of bills has been introduced during the 2024 legislative session. I have to bring this back, said Rep. Peri Pourier, D-Rapid City, who sponsored the bills last year, has two new bills this session and is a member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe. We all have to believe that we can come together on something. More: The Lost Children: An Argus Leader/South Dakota Searchlight investigation into ICWA in SD A six-month joint investigation by South Dakota Searchlight and the Argus Leader following last years session explored the causes, effects and potential solutions to the decades-long overrepresentation of Native American children in South Dakotas foster care system. Native American children accounted for nearly 74% of the foster care system in June 2023 despite accounting for only 13% of the states overall child population. ICWA, which became law 45 years ago, was intended to address those kinds of statistics with laws to keep more Native American children with their families, relatives and in their communities. With ICWAs legal status solidified, Pourier is hopeful new state legislation will pass. Flandreau Santee-Sioux Tribe Vice President Cynthia Allen-Weddell urged lawmakers to consider such legislation during the annual State of the Tribes address to legislators in January. Pouriers bills would create a two-year task force to study Native American child welfare as well as codify and expand a piece of ICWA in state law. Republican Rep. Tamara St. John, from Sisseton and a member of the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate, is the prime sponsor of a bill that would establish an Indian Child Welfare Advisory Council in the state Department of Social Services. Goal of task force, advisory council is to open space for communication, building bridges Both St. John and Pourier have struggled to obtain data from DSS to inform their legislation. St. John said shes also found a disconnect between what the department, tribal leaders, ICWA officials and nonprofit organizations are doing. Her bill would support the work already being done separately by those organizations. Rep. Tamara St. John Everyone that is working in these areas are doing their utmost for South Dakota kids and Native kids, but there just isnt a real connection, St. John said. There isnt a space for those types of conversations between organizations or to initiate innovative ideas and recommendations. An advisory council would provide that space for communication, consultation and a path forward for stakeholders, St. John said. Lawmakers approved legislation in the early 2000s to establish a task force to study implementation of ICWA in South Dakota. One of the task force recommendations that was implemented was the creation of the South Dakota ICWA Coalition. More: DSS will not ask for funding related to enhancing kinship care in South Dakota But that organization is primarily focused on connecting tribal ICWA officials across the state and is more informal than what St. John would like to see not recording minutes from meetings or reporting findings to a state agency. An advisory council would build upon that coalition to invite officials from all of South Dakotas tribal nations into regular conversations directly with the state. The advisory council would meet four times a year and would reside under DSS. The department handles the state child welfare system, and its where the statewide ICWA coordinator operates. Pouriers task force would have representatives from South Dakotas tribal nations, DSS, the state Department of Corrections as well as lawyers, state court staff, legislators and others meet for two years to improve South Dakotas child welfare system, especially related to Native American children and families involved in the system. The task force would issue a report and legislative recommendations by the end of 2026. Three new incoming South Dakota lawmakers gathered in Rapid City in December for a taping of the South Dakota Public Broadcasting show, "Where Do We Go From Here?" to discuss the upcoming legislative session. They are, from left, Republican Representative-elect Scyller Borglum, Rapid City; Democratic Senator-elect Red Dawn Foster, Pine Ridge and Democratic Representative-elect Peri Pourier, Pine Ridge. Its about building bridges, Pourier said. Its about becoming informed decision makers and looking at different perspectives and all sides of an issue. We have to come together to find common ground and try to find a solution. Thats what the task force is about. Defining active efforts for reunification Pouriers second bill would define the active efforts intended to keep Native American foster children with their families, relatives or in their community that ICWA requires child welfare officials to undertake. The bill outlines 11 ways to reach the standard, and would extend that standard to all children in South Dakotas child welfare system. The Department of Social Services follows a reasonable efforts guideline for non-Native American foster children. Its not really clear what active efforts look like, plus, do you want kids to be on different standards when youre talking about due process? Pourier said. We need to make sure that we have due process and we have a measurement tool. The House Judiciary Committee will hear arguments on Pouriers active efforts bill on Monday. Sen. Shawn Bordeaux, D-Mission, introduced a similar bill in the Senate this session, which failed at the committee level. His active efforts bill would have only applied to tribally enrolled or eligible children. Debate centered around how broadly Bordeaux had defined active efforts. 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. DSS opposed the bill, with Secretary Matt Althoff saying the department already complies with active efforts to reunify Native children with their families. He added that by codifying the federal active efforts language and simplifying it, there could be a risk of discrepancy between what DSS already does for active efforts and what the court defines as active efforts. Althoff said that the court system acts as a third-party review in overseeing that DSS is complying with the 11 active efforts laid out by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. When Sen. Michael Rohl, R-Aberdeen, made the motion to reject the bill, he said there had already been conversation among members of the legislative State-Tribal Relations Committee about codifying ICWA into state law. Creating an ICWA in South Dakota could better reflect the realities of the states child welfare system rather than using the blanket approach set up by the feds, according to BJ Jones, who spoke to the State-Tribal Relations Committee in 2023. Jones is a tribal judge who currently serves as director for the University of North Dakotas Tribal Judicial Institute. Seventeen states have state ICWA laws and South Dakota remains the only state in the Upper Midwest and Great Plains region not to have adopted the federal law into state code. That proposal Rohl spoke of has not been introduced during the 2024 session as lawmakers continue to work with key stakeholders on the issue. Because of how detailed some of these things are, we didn't bring it into the session, because we need more time to be able to work with all the stakeholders to make sure we're not having unintended consequences, Rohl said. This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: Three ICWA bills return to South Dakota Legislature for hearings WASHINGTON Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley blasted President Joe Biden after a scathing report from special counsel Robert Hur that was described Biden as a well-meaning elderly man with a poor memory. The report, which came Thursday after a year-long probe examining whether Biden mishandled classified documents, concluded that the president will not face charges. However, investigators claimed Bidens memory appeared hazy when discussing the war in Afghanistan. Yesterday was a wakeup call for the country. The White House is not a taxpayer-subsidized nursing home. It is clear to most Americans that Biden lacks the mental capacity to effectively serve as president, Haley wrote on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. The report also alleged that Biden couldnt remember when he served as vice president or the exact year his son Beau died. Biden's team angrily rejected those claims in a letter to Hur and at a Friday afternoon briefing where a spokesman for the White House counsel's office, Ian Sams, made a rare appearance to field reporters' questions. Biden personally rebuffed the special counsel in hastily-arranged remarks on Thursday night at the White House. "How in the hell dare he raise that?" he said of Beau's death. "I don't need anybody to remind me when he passed away." White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Friday that the president's physician told her last year that he did not believe Biden needed a cognitive test. Jean-Pierre said Biden would take another physical this year, and the White House would share the results. In response to a question about Haley's comments, she did not say if the president was considering a mental competency test as part of his next exam. Haley has said that any politician over the age of 75 should take a competency test, including former President Donald Trump, who she attacked again on Friday in the same statement in which she slammed Biden. Donald Trump has his own mental deficiencies, is prone to temper tantrums and wild rants, and confuses countries and who was in charge of Capitol security on January 6, Haley wrote on Friday. Haley was referring to Trumps mixup at a rally in New Hampshire days before the states primary last month, where he conflated Haley with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif, when discussing security of the U.S. Capitol before the insurrection of Jan. 6, 2021. Trump has repeatedly and falsely claimed that Pelosi rejected an offer for to deploy 10,000 National Guard troops that day. I have long said the first party to retire its 80-year-old candidate will win the White House. Democrats appear on their way to doing just that. Trump runs about even with the enfeebled Biden; he would get crushed by a Democrat with a pulse, Haley added. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Nikki Haley blasts Biden after release of classified docs report NEW PHILADELPHIA Calvin White, executive director of the Friends of the Homeless of Tuscarawas County, said there are no simple answers to addressing the homeless situation in the area. But making housing more affordable would be a good first step. Calvin White, executive director of Friends of the Homeless of Tuscarawas County, is shown with items that will be distributed to residents of a New Philadelphia homeless encampment who have been ordered to leave the property by March 31. "If I had my magic wand, I think that's the first thing I would do," he said. Added Rebecca Everhart, case manager and housing specialist for the organization, "The biggest issue with the housing situation from my prospective is there's just not enough inventory. We've had guests in the past that have burnt bridges and relationships with landlords, and they no longer want to work with our clientele. Even the ones that really do want to work with us, they just don't have the availability to help us, especially with low-income housing." Evicted: New Philadelphia orders residents of homeless encampment to vacate property Asked about what New Philadelphia is going to do to address the homeless issue, Mayor Joel Day said, "Youd have to talk to the people living in the encampment regarding what they plan to do. The city does not have a long-term plan to deal with homelessness." Programs to help the homeless Friends of the Homeless, which operates a shelter in New Philadelphia, participates in two federal programs administered by the state of Ohio Rapid Rehousing and Homeless Prevention. Rapid Rehousing is designed for people who are homeless or living in the homeless shelter. It will assist them with the first month's rent and deposit on an apartment and has the ability to assist them with rent for up to a year. New shelter: Still searching for a location: Fifth homeless shelter site rejected by New Philadelphia During the 2021-2022 grant cycle, the program assisted seven families in Tuscarawas County at a cost of $18,707. In the 2023-2024 grant cycle, it has assisted 11 families at a cost of $16,641. Homeless Prevention is a program for people who are doubling up or living with family or friends, or those facing eviction. It can pay their back rent or help them with the first month's rent and deposit to move into an apartment. During the 2021-2022 grant cycle, the program paid $23,596 in rent to keep people in this county from being evicted, assisting 13 households. In the latest grant cycle, it has assisted 21 families with rent, for total of a $34,906. The two programs are funded by the same federal grant, Everhart said. However, the Homeless Prevention program is almost out of money. There is less than $15,000 left for the rest of the year for five counties Jefferson, Harrison, Columbiana, Carroll and Tuscarawas, unless the state gives permission to move money from Rapid Rehousing to Homeless Prevention. If the money cannot be moved, the Homeless Prevention program will end until the next grant cycle in 2025, she said. The money is allocated on a first-come, first-serve basis to the counties. But getting people into housing does not always solve the problem. "We have a lot of people that Becky will get into housing, but because of either their mental health issues or addiction issues, that falls apart with in a couple of months and they become homeless again. Some of them do return here," White said. How many homeless? Determining the exact number of homeless in Tuscarawas County is also not easy to do. White estimated that there are about 40 people who meet the government's definition of being homeless. But there are at least 50 or 60 people who have no permanent home and are sleeping on someone's couch. The number of homeless is fluid, he noted. The homeless shelter has a 36-bed capacity. But since the COVID-19 pandemic, the shelter is rarely full, he said. It has between 25 and 30 guests on a regular basis. In 2023, bed capacity was at 73.1%. Before the pandemic, it wasn't uncommon for bed capacity to be at over 100%. He noted that over the last two years, 76% of the people served by the shelter had either a physical or mental health disability. This soiled Mickey Mouse doll was found at a homeless encampment in the New Philadelphia area. There are several homeless encampments in the New Philadelphia area, including one behind Walmart on Bluebell Drive and a couple close to the Tuscarawas River in the vicinity of New Towne Mall. White said he has seen evidence of children living at some of the encampments. In January, the city of New Philadelphia ordered residents at one encampment on Fourth Street Extension to vacate the property by March 31 or face legal consequences. Need for outreach case manager "What we would like to hire is an outreach case manager, for somebody who could go out to encampments and talk to people, try to convince them to come in, make referrals, if need be," White said. "But the way it is now, it's hit and miss. Some of our staff know where some the people are, and they'll occasionally go by, check in with people. That's not consistent. There's no schedule for that." Friends of the Homeless does not have the resources or staff to do that, he said. However, the organization is considering hiring a development director to write grants, do fundraising and public relations. That position will be filled if money is available, he said. Reach Jon at 330-364-8415 or at jon.baker@timesreporter.com. This article originally appeared on The Times-Reporter: New Philadelphia has no easy solutions for helping the homelessness Franklin County opened a new $350 million jail in 2022. State lawmakers are now debating a plan to spend $250 million in state funds on local jail construction and renovations. There are 89 full-service jails across Ohio, housing about 19,000 people. State lawmakers want to earmark $250 million for local jail construction and renovations an idea that county officials applaud. If approved, it'll be a massive surge in state money for local governments. Currently, there are 89 full-service jails across Ohio operated by county sheriffs and local police departments. County jails need to increase mental health and drug addiction treatment capacity, add beds for incarcerated women and improve safety, according to the County Commissioners Association of Ohio. The association estimates that $2.2 billion is needed to pay for all the needed jail construction work. The County Commissioners Association of Ohio says $2.2 billion is needed to pay for all the jail construction and renovation projects across the state. The Ohio House earmarked $250 million for jail projects. That's in addition to $101 million in state money spent on jail upgrades since 2021. Since 2021, the DeWine administration has earmarked $101 million in state money to help counties renovate or replace jails. Several new jails will greatly expand bed capacities. In Gallia County, for example, $5.5 million in state money will help build a 120-bed facility, replacing an 11-bed lockup used since 1964. So far 23 jails have received state money for jail renovations, expansions or replacements. House Bill 2, which the Ohio House approved Wednesday, would earmark an additional $100 million for large county jail projects and $150 million for smaller county jail projects. The Ohio Senate will now consider the bill. Grants would be based on financial need and an assessment of the need for more jail beds or renovations. Across Ohio, about 19,000 people are incarcerated in jails on any given day. The state prison system holds another 44,600 people. Jails are not the same as prisons. They are temporary holding facilities for people who are just arrested, awaiting court appearances, held pretrial on bonds or serving short-term sentences. American Civil Liberties Union of Ohio lobbyist Gary Daniels said while some jails need renovations, a building spree isn't the right answer. "The best way to safely reduce jail populations around Ohio is via thoughtful, comprehensive bail reform. Legislators rejected such legislation last session, opting to perpetuate this serious problem. This keeps our jails packed full of people otherwise free to go, but who cannot afford bail," he said. "Now legislators double down by spending hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars to renovate and construct more jails. This ensures Ohioans will pay even more for our leaders stubborn refusal to enact meaningful reform measures." 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: Ohio considers spending $250 million on local jail construction projects This picture of Lower Oneonta Falls in the Columbia River Gorge, taken by Kyle Martz of Salem in April 2015, got 75 votes in the Statesman Journals Winter Waterfall photography contest. Hikers wont be able to return to Oneonta Gorge anytime soon. The off-trail trek, which skyrocketed to popularity on social media in the early 2010s but struggled under the weight of overcrowding, has been closed since the Eagle Creek Fire in 2017. Forest officials say dangerous conditions brought by the fire will keep the once-popular area of the Columbia Gorge closed until at least 2026 and possibly beyond. The U.S. Forest Service is beginning a plan that could lead to restored access the second half of this decade in the stunning but fragile slot canyon. Public outreach could begin this autumn. We realize that Oneonta Gorge is an important area for many visitors and that there may be frustration over a continuing closure order, said Nathaniel Brodie, spokesman for the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. The primary reason that the Gorge is still closed is public safety, he said. Oneonta Gorge poses a unique circumstance due to its geology, confined topography and high-visitation. For now, the entrance to Oneonta remains gated and the fine for trespassing is $5,000 or six months in prison. Why is Oneonta Gorge still closed? Oneonta Gorge, one of the most popular off-trail routes in the Columbia River Gorge, has been closed since the Eagle Creek Fire. The route up Oneonta Creek, below vertical moss-covered walls, was less of a hike than a creekwhack hiking through the water of the stream during summer. That led to the unique experience, but it also made the area more hazardous than other locations after the fire weakened the gorges vegetation. Falling rocks, debris flows and massive log jams are the primary reasons the area has been kept closed. Brodie said wind-thrown snags continue to trigger rockslides directly into Oneonta Gorge." He also said changes to groundwater from the fire have led to to instability within the Columbia River basalt cliffs. Both rockfall and debris flows, with its tight quarters and limited egress, pose risks to visitors, especially when visitation is high. In addition, the gorges log jams, always dangerous in the past, have also significantly increased since the fire, Brodie said. There is a now a series of three log jams that span the entire creek, some of them 10-25 feet high and 30 feet long, and most of them above pools of deep water, he said, noting a 2011 fatality in the gorge came after a young man slipped off a log into a deep pool, was unable to extricate himself, and drowned. Massive amounts of dead trees have piled up in Oneonta Gorge since the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire, creating an unsafe environment and keeping the area closed to the public. Brodie said there are roughly 40,000 fire-killed trees in the Oneonta Creek watershed, meaning major log jams are likely to be a hazard for years to come. And because the stream is critical habitat for salmon and steelhead, the logs wouldnt be removed. These shifting, floating, and deathly-slippery tree trunks are rearranged and added to with every flood event. The potential for catastrophic failure of such debris dams and subsequent debris dam outburst flooding along the length of the Oneonta drainage remains high, Brodie said. A plan for reopening the gorge later this decade is beginning and public outreach could begin by this autumn. Four likely scenarios for reopening Oneonta Gorge Officials are planning how to restore access once the gorge is deemed safe enough to reopen. Even before it burned, overcrowding was a major problem. Large numbers of visitors damaged riparian vegetation and harassed spawning salmon and juvenile fish. When the gorge does reopen, forest officials are considering four options for how access would be handled including: 1) Unrestricted access (similar to prior to the Eagle Creek Fire) 2) Complete closure to access 3) Seasonal public access outside of salmon and steelhead spawning 4) Open or seasonal public access with trigger points to limit use Public outreach could begin this fall Oneonta Gorge, one of the most popular off-trail routes in the Columbia River Gorge, has been closed since the Eagle Creek Fire. The Forest Service has begun conducting studies on how those four scenarios would fit with the gorges plant species and fish. Theyll bring that information to a public outreach process that could begin this autumn. The goal is to utilize public outreach to determine alternatives that balance natural resource concerns and public desire for access, Brodie said. After public outreach, a process required by the National Environmental Policy Act would begin balancing the environmental impact of the four alternatives which could take another year or two to complete. Brodie said a decision on how or whether to restore access would most likely come in 2026 or 2027. Zach Urness has been an outdoors reporter in Oregon for 15 years and is host of the Explore Oregon Podcast. Urness is the author of Best Hikes with Kids: Oregon and Hiking Southern Oregon. He can be reached at zurness@StatesmanJournal.com or (503) 399-6801. Find him on Twitter at @ZachsORoutdoors. This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Oregon's iconic Oneonta Gorge likely to stay closed into 2026-27 The news that Prince Harry -- now living in California -- quickly boarded a flight to London to see his father King Charles III after he was diagnosed with cancer has sparked immediate hopes of a reconciliation for many royal watchers. Harry, 39, had not seen his 75-year-old father in nearly one year, since the king's coronation last May at Westminster Abbey. His trip last year to the United Kingdom was a short one for Harry, who did not participate in his father's coronation ceremony and who was not seen interacting publicly with either Charles or his older brother Prince William, the heir to the throne. Harry's trip to the U.K. this week proved to be a short one as well. Harry reportedly met with his father privately for less than an hour before Charles and his wife Queen Camilla left London to travel to Sandringham, the royal residence in Norfolk, England. Harry himself flew out of London just over 24 hours after arriving, reportedly staying in a hotel overnight and leaving on Wednesday out of Heathrow Airport. Though the visit was brief, ABC News royal contributor Robert Jobson noted it was a "heartfelt decision" by Harry to reach out to his father. "Harry and the king, I think they were always very close," Jobson said. "So deep down, I'm sure he's quite relieved that Harry has reached out to him." PHOTO: In this Sept. 10, 2022 file photo, Prince William and Prince Harry are seen on the long Walk at Windsor Castle, in Windsor, England. (Chris Jackson/POOL/AFP via Getty Images, FILE) During his time in London, Harry did not meet with William, who is coping with not only their father's cancer diagnosis but also the recent hospitalization of his wife Kate, the Princess of Wales, following abdominal surgery. William stepped in for his father Wednesday at Windsor Castle, leading an investiture ceremony, and later attended a charity fundraising gala held at a London hotel. MORE: Prince William makes 1st official appearance amid King Charles, Princess Kate health issues In his remarks at the gala, William thanked people for the "kind messages of support" for his wife -- who is now recovering at home -- and father, and made no reference to Harry. The last time the public saw the two brothers -- the only children of Charles and the late Princess Diana -- closely together was in 2022, at the funeral for their beloved grandmother, the late Queen Elizabeth II. At the funeral, Harry and William, along with other royal family members, were part of the procession that followed behind the queen's coffin. PHOTO: In this Sept. 14, 2022 file photo, (L-R) Peter Phillips, Prince Harry, Prince William and Edward, Earl of Wessex follow the bearer carrying the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II into Westminster Hall ahead of her funeral in London. (Jacob King/WPA Pool/Getty Images, FILE) Over the past four years, since Harry's departure from his role as a senior working royal, those few formal and brief glimpses of William and Harry are all the public has seen of the once publicly bonded brothers. When Harry and his wife Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, left their royal roles in 2020, they moved to California, where they now live full-time with their two young children, Archie and Lilibet. William and Kate live in Windsor, England, with their three children, Princes George and Louis and Princess Charlotte. The thousands of miles physically separating the brothers seem to exist on a personal level too. Harry laid bare the rift between himself and William in his memoir "Spare," in which he refers to William as his "beloved brother and arch nemesis" and recalls verbal and even physical disputes between them. MORE: Prince Harry flies out of London after quick visit with King Charles He also wrote of a fractured relationship with Charles, telling "Good Morning America" co-anchor Michael Strahan last year that he did not believe the details shared in "Spare" could make things any worse with his family. "I don't think that we can ever have peace with my family unless the truth is out there," Harry told Strahan last January, just before "Spare" was released. "There's a lot that I can forgive, but there needs to be conversations in order for reconciliation, and part of that has to be accountability." PHOTO: In this April 9, 2017 file photo, Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Prince Harry attend the commemorations for the 100th anniversary of the battle of Vimy Ridge in Lille, France. (Pool/Samir Hussein/WireImage via Getty Images, FILE) Neither Kensington Palace -- William and Kate's office -- nor Buckingham Palace, the office of Charles and Queen Camilla, have commented on the claims Harry made in "Spare." The absence felt by Harry's departure from his senior royal role has been seen most recently with both Kate and Charles temporarily out of the public eye due to their health issues. In their absence, and without Harry and his wife Meghan to take on official engagements, it has fallen to William and Camilla, along with Charles' siblings, to be the public faces of the royal family. When William eventually becomes king, the monarchy will be even slimmer, but Jobson said he does not anticipate a reconciliation between William and Harry. "I think the relationship is already so bad that I don't believe that as king or as regent he would reach out to Harry for support," Jobson said. "I think that as far as he's concerned, Harry's made his bed and he has to lie in it." Prince Harry's visit with King Charles III, absence of Prince William sparks reconciliation questions originally appeared on goodmorningamerica.com Vladimir Putin has repeated a claim that Boris Johnson scuppered negotiations for a peace settlement between Russia and Ukraine, which the former UK prime minister has previously labelled nonsense. During a highly anticipated sit-down interview with former Fox News commentator Tucker Carlson, the Russian president said, via a translator, that a huge document had been prepared and approved by the head of the Ukrainian delegation, before Mr Johnson had stepped in and dissuaded Ukraines president Volodymyr Zelensky. Putin said of Zelensky: He put his signature and then he himself said, We were ready to sign it and the war would have been over long ago. However, Prime Minister Johnson came to talk us [Ukraine] out of it, and weve missed that chance. In an interview with The Times in January, Mr Johnson strongly denied the claims, which have been previously aired by Moscow, describing them as total nonsense and Russian propaganda. Mr Johnson asserted that, during a conversation with Mr Zelensky following the peace talks in Istanbul, he had expressed concerns about the nature of the potential agreement, but assured him of the UKs unwavering support for Ukraine. He said: No peace proposals or peace agreement were possible in February or March 2022. Russia entered Ukraine solely for the sake of seizing territories, killing citizens and overthrowing a democratic government. Tucker Carlson interviewing Vladimir Putin (Tucker Carlson) The former prime ministers rebuttal came following statements made by David Arakhamiya, the leader of the Servant of the People party in the Ukrainian parliament, and head of the Ukrainian delegation in talks with Russia, in November 2023. Mr Arakhamiya cited a previous visit by Mr Johnson to Kyiv as forming part of the decision not to negotiate with Moscow in 2022. Mr Johnson had allegedly said that Ukraine shouldnt sign anything with them at all and lets just fight. Speaking of the proposed negotiations, Mr Putin continued: We have never refused ... and the fact that they obeyed the demand or persuasion of Mr Johnson, the former prime minister of Great Britain, seems ridiculous and very sad to me. Because as Mr Arakhamiya put it, we could have stopped those hostilities with war a year and a half ago already. But the British persuaded us and we refused this. Where is Mr Johnson now? And the war continues. Looks like the Biden Administration deployed Boris Johnson to scuttle a tentative peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine in spring 2022. This was never about the Ukrainian people. It was always about engineering a war against Russia. #Kennedy24https://t.co/SYyFEqy5El Robert F. Kennedy Jr (@RobertKennedyJr) June 19, 2023 Asked where he thought Mr Johnson was, Mr Putin laughed, replying: Hell knows, I dont understand it myself. Conspiracy theories about Mr Johnsons potential involvement in peace negotiations between the two nations had previously been bandied about by US presidential hopeful Robert F Kennedy Jr. Mr Kennedy wrote on Twitter/X in June 2023: Looks like the Biden Administration deployed Boris Johnson to scuttle a tentative peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine in spring 2022. This was never about the Ukrainian people. It was always about engineering a war against Russia, Vladimir Putin has threatened the United States with a global war that will bring humanity to the brink if it deploys troops to Ukraine. The Russian president appealed to the US to stop the fighting in Ukraine and push for peace, telling US TV personality Tucker Carlson: We have to look for a way out of this situation. Speaking in his first interview with a Western media figure since invading Ukraine in February 2022, Putin appeared to signal for the first time that Washington and Moscow were involved in back-channel peace talks on the war. Certain contacts are being maintained, Putin told Carlson, but declined to go into further detail. However, the Russian president added: If somebody has the desire to send regular troops, that would certainly bring humanity to the brink of a very serious global conflict. Putin accuses Boris Johnson of sabotaging peace deal Putin, 71, also accused Boris Johnson of sabotaging a peace deal with Ukraine in the spring of 2022. Carlson asked Putin about reports that Ukraine was prevented from negotiating a peace settlement by the former British prime minister acting on behalf of the Biden administration. The claim first surfaced after David Arahamiya, Ukraines chief negotiator in the peace talks, cited Mr Johnsons surprise trip to Kyiv in 2022 among the reasons the talks stalled. Mr Arahamiya told a journalist that while talks between Kyiv and Moscow were under way in Istanbul, Mr Johnson told leaders in Kyiv that Ukraine shouldnt sign anything with them at all and lets just fight. The former prime minister has previously vehemently denied the claims as total nonsense and Russian propaganda. Mr Johnson said he merely expressed concerns about the nature of the potential agreement during a conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. He added that he had assured Mr Zelensky of the UKs unwavering support for Ukraine, stating that Britain would back Kyiv a thousand per cent. Putin and Carlson at the Kremlin in Moscow - AFP Raising the issue, Carlson asked Putin whether Ukraine was merely a satellite for the West. Putin replied: If the Zelensky administration in Ukraine refused to negotiate, I assume they did it under instruction from Washington. The Russian leader went on to claim a peace deal was settled in Istanbul with Ukraines chief negotiator but scuppered by Mr Johnson, prolonging the war by another 18 months. Putin said: Prime Minister Johnson came to talk us out of it and we missed that chance. Well, you missed it. Discussing a potential path to peace, Putin added: If Washington believes it to be the wrong decision, let it abandon it. Let it find the delicate excuse so that no one is insulted. Let it come up with a way out. It was not us who made this decision. It was them. So let them go back on it. He added: And now we have to look for a way out of this situation to correct their mistakes. They did it, so let them correct it themselves. We support this. Release of Evan Gershkovich possible Elsewhere in the more than two-hour interview, Putin hinted that he could be open to releasing Evan Gershkovich, the Wall Street Journal reporter who has been held in a Russian prison for almost a year. Putin signalled back-channel conversations were ongoing with Washington over Mr Gershkovichs release, as he said: Special services are in contact with one another. They are talking about the matter in question, he said, adding: I believe an agreement can be reached. Putin believes Russia has historic claims to Ukrainian territory Putin spent the first half an hour of the interview giving a centuries-long historical account of Russian territory which he claimed justified his claims on Ukrainian territory. More than once, Carlson pressed the Russian leader on how his response was relevant to the invasion. Putin replied: Are we going to have a serious talk or a show? He went on to argue that Romania and Hungary had some of their lands taken away... and they still remain part of Ukraine. The interview was Putin's first with a Western media figure since Russia's war with Ukraine began - AFP via Getty Images The Right-wing American commentator asked: Do you believe Hungary has a right to take its land back from Ukraine, and that other nations have a right to go back to their 1654 borders? Putin replied: Im not sure whether they should go back to their 1654 borders. But ... one can say that they could claim back those lands of theirs while having no right to do that. It is at least understandable. No interest in expanding war The Russian president also said it was out of the question for Russia to invade Poland or Latvia, telling Carlson: We simply dont have any interest in expanding the war in Ukraine. Can you imagine a scenario where you send Russian troops to Poland? Carlson asked in the interview. Only in one case, if Poland attacks Russia, Putin responded, adding: We have no interest in Poland, Latvia or anywhere else. Why would we do that? We simply dont have any interest... It is absolutely out of the question. But he said defeating Russia in Ukraine is impossible and Nato must accept Moscows territorial gains there. There has been the uproar and screaming about inflicting a strategic defeat to Russia on the battlefield, Mr Putin said. In my opinion, it is impossible by definition. It is never going to happen. 01:31 AM GMT That's all for now Thanks for following our live coverage of Tucker Carlsons interview with Vladimir Putin. This live blog is now closed. 01:29 AM GMT Everything Tucker Carlson has said about Vladimir Putin Tucker Carlson frequently made sympathetic comments about Vladimir Putin and Russias invasion of Ukraine when he was at Fox News. Carlsons remarks, which often reflected Putins claims about the war, were used by Russian state television to show the Russian president was right because the same was being said by the most popular television presenter in America. Carlsons comments included claims that the US should take Russias side in its war with Ukraine, along with remarks denouncing Volodymyr Zelensky as a dictator and a dangerous authoritarian. Read the full story from Susie Coen and Luca Rufo here. 01:09 AM GMT Carlson-Putin interview over Tucker Carlsons interview of Vladimir Putin has now finished. The former Fox host appeared to take a cue from Putin, who asked: Shall we end here, or is there anything else? 01:08 AM GMT Putin: Russia and Ukraine relationship will heal Relations between Russia and Ukraine will heal, Vladimir Putin says, as the war between the countries approaches its second year. He tells Tucker Carlson: This endless mobilisation in Ukraine, the hysteria, the domestic problems, sooner or later it will result in an agreemen You know, this probably sounds strange given the current situation. But the relations between the two peoples will be rebuilt anyway. It will take a lot of time, but they will heal. 12:56 AM GMT Putin says he may release imprisoned US journalist Vladimir Putin suggests he could release Evan Gershkovich, the Wall Street Journal reporter who has been imprisoned in Russia for around a year. He tells Tucker Carlson: We have done so many gestures of goodwill out of decency that I think we have run out of them. We have never seen anyone reciprocate to us in a similar manner. However, in theory, we can say that we do not rule out that we can do that if our partners take reciprocal steps. The Russian president adds: We are willing to solve it but there are certain terms being discussed via special services channels. I believe an agreement can be reached. 12:52 AM GMT Elon Musk is 'unstoppable' says Putin Vladimir Putin praises Elon Musk as a very smart person who can help the world find a safe way to use artificial intelligence (AI). He says: I think theres no stopping Elon Musk. He will do as he sees fit. Nevertheless, youll need to find some common ground with him. Search for ways to persuade him. I think hes a smart person. I truly believe he is. So youll need to reach an agreement with him because this process [of AI] needs to be formalised and subjected to certain rules. 12:46 AM GMT Putin: 'Arrogant' Boris Johnson urged Ukraine not to take peace deal Vladimir Putin claims Boris Johnson urged Ukraine against signing a peace deal with Russia, saying the former Prime Minister had a pure heart but not a great mind. The fact that they obey the demand or persuasion of Mr. Johnson, the former Prime Minister of Great Britain, seems ridiculous, the Russian leader continues. And its very sad to me because... we could have stopped those hostilities with war a year and a half ago already. Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks during an interview with US television host Tucker Carlson in Moscow, Russia - Tucker Carlson Network via Reuters But the British persuaded us and we refused this. Where is Mr. Johnson now? And the war continues. Asked by host Tucker Carlson about Mr Johnsons motivation, Putin answers: For some reason, everyone had the illusion that Russia could be defeated on the battlefield. Because of arrogance, because of a pure heart, but not because of a great mind. 12:31 AM GMT Putin had 'very good relationship' with Trump Vladimir Putin says he had a very good relationship with Donald Trump and George W. Bush during their time as US President. He says Mr Bush was often seen as a country boy who does not understand much but clarifies that this is not the case. In general, on a personal human level, I had a very good relationship with him, the Russian president continues. He was no worse than any other American or Russian or European politician. I assure you he understood what he was doing as well as others. I had such personal relationship with Trump as well. It is not about the personality of the leader. 12:24 AM GMT Pictured: Putin talks WW3 and China with Tucker Carlson Tucker Carlson speaks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, Russia 12:14 AM GMT CIA destroyed Nord Stream pipeline, Putin claims Vladimir Putin says the CIA for sure blew up the Nord Stream pipeline, claiming it does not have an alibi for when the sabotage took place. He adds: People always say in such cases, look for someone who is interested. But in this case, we should not only look for someone who is interested, but also for someone who has capabilities. Because there may be many people interested, but not all of them are capable of sinking to the bottom of the Baltic Sea and carrying out this explosion. These two components should be connected. Who is interested and who is capable of doing it? 12:07 AM GMT Putin: Ukraine war 'over in weeks' without US support The war in Ukraine will be over in a few weeks if the US stops supplying weapons, Vladimir Putin tells Tucker Carlson. I will tell you what we are saying on this matter and what we are conveying to the US leadership, he says. If you really want to stop fighting, you need to stop supplying weapons. It will be over within a few weeks. Thats it. And then we can agree on some terms before you do that, stop. Whats easier? Why would I call [Joe Biden]? What should I talk to him about? Or beg him for what? 12:04 AM GMT Supporting Ukraine is 'huge mistake', Putin told Biden Vladimir Putin says he cannot remember the last time he talked to US President Joe Biden, saying: I have my own things to do. He adds: I said to him... I believe that you are making a huge mistake of historic proportions by supporting everything that is happening there, in Ukraine, by pushing Russia away. 11:58 PM GMT Putin: We withdrew troops from Kyiv for peace deal Vladimir Putin claims Russia willingly withdrew its troops from around Kyiv during its invasion of Ukraine in order to facilitate a peace deal. He says: My counterparts in France, in Germany said, How can you imagine them signing a treaty with a gun to their heads? The troops should be pulled back from Kyiv. I said, all right. We withdrew the troops from Kyiv. As soon as we pulled back our troops from Kyiv, our Ukrainian negotiators immediately threw all our agreements... into the bin and got prepared for a long-standing armed confrontation with the help of the United States and its satellites in Europe. Russia was forced to withdraw from the area around Kyiv in April 2022 following a series of Ukrainian counterattacks. 11:42 PM GMT Watch: Tucker Carlson interviews Vladimir Putin Ep. 73 The Vladimir Putin Interview pic.twitter.com/67YuZRkfLL Tucker Carlson (@TuckerCarlson) February 8, 2024 11:41 PM GMT Bush 'opened door to Ukraine joining Nato' George W. Bush pushed Natos expansion all the way across eastern Europe to Ukraine, Vladimir Putin claims, labelling the former US president such a tough guy. He says: There were five waves of expansion. The Baltic states, the whole of Eastern Europe, and so on. And now I come to the main thing. They have come to the Ukraine. Ultimately, in 2008, at the summit in Bucharest, they declared that the doors for Ukraine and Georgia to join Nato were open. President Bush and hes such a tough guy, a tough politician, as I was told later, he exerted pressure on us and we had to agree. Its ridiculous. 11:34 PM GMT Putin: Clinton ruled out Russia joining Nato Vladimir Putin claims Russia may have joined Nato under his leadership but his overtures were rejected by Bill Clinton, the then-US President. He says: At a meeting here in the Kremlin with the outgoing President Bill Clinton, right here in the next room, I said to him, I asked him: Bill, do you think if Russia asked to join Nato, do you think it would happen? Suddenly he said, You know, its interesting. I think so. But in the evening, when we met for dinner, he said: You know, Ive talked to my team, no, its not possible now. Asked if he would have joined Nato, Putin adds: If [Clinton] had said yes, the process of rapprochement would have commenced, and eventually it might have happened. 11:31 PM GMT 'Nato tricked us', Putin claims Vladimir Putin claims Russia was tricked by the West after the end of the Cold War and has been repeatedly pressured by an expansionist Nato. The Russian president tells interviewer Tucker Carlson: After 1991, when Russia expected that it would be welcomed into the brotherly family of civilised nations, nothing like this happened. You tricked us. I dont mean you personally when I say you, he adds to the former Fox News host. Of course Im talking about the United States. The promise was that Nato would not expand eastward. But it happened five times. There were five waves of expansion. Putin suggests that Russia may have joined the military alliance under his leadership in the early 2000s, but the idea was blocked by Bill Clinton, then US President. 11:28 PM GMT Putin: West 'fears China more than Russia' The West is more afraid of China than Russia, Vladimir Putin admits, as he said the countrys potential was enormous. He told Tucker Carlson, the former Fox News host: The West is afraid of strong China more than it fears a strong Russia, because Russia has won 150 million people and China has 1.5 billion population. And its economy is growing by leaps and bounds, or five per cent a year. It used to be even more, but thats enough for China. As Bismarck once put it, potentials are the most important. Chinas potential is enormous. 11:26 PM GMT Pictured: Putin gestures during sit-down with Carlson Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks during an interview with U.S. television host Tucker Carlson in Moscow, Russia - Tucker Carlson Network via Reuters 11:10 PM GMT Tucker 'losing track' of Putin's historical explanation Tucker Carlson admits he is losing track of his interview with Vladimir Putin as the Russian leader launches into a long historical explanation for his invasion of Ukraine. Putin claims Russia had a historic claim to Ukraine in a lengthy monologue beginning in 862 AD, as the Fox News host appears puzzled by the direction of the conversation. At one point, the Russian president claims Austria was responsible of creating the ideas of Ukraine and Ukrainisation to weaken Russia before the First World War. 11:02 PM GMT Pictures: Putin sits down with Tucker Carlson for interview Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks during an interview with US television host Tucker Carlson in Moscow, Russia - Tucker Carlson Network via Reuters Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks during an interview with US television host Tucker Carlson in Moscow, Russia - Tucker Carlson Network via Reuters 10:50 PM GMT Carlson 'feels guilty' for praising Russia Tucker Carlson, who has been photographed at the Bolshoi Ballet and other locations across Moscow this week, said he felt like he was betraying the US by praising the beautiful city. Why do I feel guilty like Im betraying my country for saying it? he asked Russian media. Im not I love America. He continued: Ive really enjoyed it. I think this city Ive never been here before I think this city is really pretty I dont know if Im allowed to say that but its true. Im amazed by the amount of 19th-century architecture you have. 10:35 PM GMT Kremlin: Carlson not first Western journalist to seek Putin interview The Kremlin corrected Tucker Carlson after he claimed to be the first Western journalist to seek an interview with Vladimir Putin since he invaded Ukraine. Carlson, a former Fox News host, said on Tuesday that media outlets had not bothered to speak to the Russian president while producing fawning interviews with Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian leader. The comment was widely criticised by journalists and also rebutted by the Kremlin, which said it received many requests for interviews with the president. Read the full story here. 10:28 PM GMT 'We don't need another interview with Putin' The White House has condemned Tucker Carlsons decision to interview Vladimir Putin, labelling the Russian president brutal. John Kirby, the National Security Council spokesman, said: It should be very obvious to everybody what Mr. Putin has done in Ukraine and the bogus completely bogus and ridiculous reasons for which he tried to justify it. I dont think we need another interview with Vladimir Putin to understand his brutality. 10:25 PM GMT When is Tucker Carlson interviewing Vladimir Putin? Tucker Carlsons interview will be released on Thursday 8 February at 6pm EST (11pm GMT). On a post to his Instagram account on Wednesday, Carlson said the sit-down interview had already been recorded and would be available on his personal website, TuckerCarlson.com, the following evening. 10:22 PM GMT Welcome Hello and welcome to the live blog. Benedict Smith here. Well be bringing you all the updates as Tucker Carlson sits down with Russian leader Vladimir Putin. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. To one side, a Lincoln judge's decision last year in a news nonprofit's fight over a state agency's nearly $45,000 fee for public records about the state's drinking water was a win for the public's right to know. To the other, it was permission for public records requesters to consume 927 hours of taxpayer-funded employee time for free. Whichever way the Nebraska Supreme Court rules in the case now on appeal, the decision is likely to reverberate statewide. At oral arguments Thursday, Nebraska Solicitor General Eric Hamilton told the justices: "The district court's rule forces public bodies from the largest state agencies and courts down to the smallest villages in Nebraska to pay the cost of voluminous, abusive or otherwise disruptive records requests." Here, the case involved a Flatwater Free Press reporter's request to the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy in 2022 for a keyword search of emails as part of an investigation into nitrates in the state's drinking water. After reporter Yanqi Xu got an initial $2,000 cost estimate, she narrowed the request from 10 to five years to try to reach a lower cost. But as the request got smaller and narrower, the cost estimates skyrocketed, her attorney says. The state disputes it, saying while she shortened the time period, her later request broadened from emails between NDEE and natural resource districts to all emails with the search terms. Both sides agree Flatwater ultimately was told it would need to pay a deposit of $44,103.11 before the state would start the search. Shortly after Hamilton began his time at the podium, Justice William Cassel jumped in. "We've seen a lot of arguments about what the policy should be as to who should bear the expense, if you will. But isn't the question before us today not what we think the policy should be, but what the Legislature in the statute it enacted adopted as the policy?" he asked. Hamilton agreed, pointing to legislative intent, saying lawmakers anticipated the problem of "voluminous and sometimes abusive requests burdening public bodies." He said it also carefully considered how to ensure that smaller requests could be made available to the public, by allowing the first four hours of time to be free for "searching, identifying, physically redacting or copying," so long as it isn't for an attorney's time, which is specifically excluded. Hamilton said the initial search only identifies potential public records, unless they include information that would exclude them, like trade secrets, copyright-protected works or medical information. "Someone has to search these emails because you simply can't punch terms into your Outlook mailbox and then have a set of public records. There's analysis to determine whether any individual document is even a public record," he said. Hamilton said that if the "district court's rule" is accepted it would license abusive requests to university professors, small governmental bodies and state agencies. Attorney Daniel Gutman, who represents Flatwater Free Press, said public records laws empower Nebraskans to access and review documents that belong to them. "That is the backbone of government transparency," he said. "That promise is thwarted when the government charges tens of thousands of dollars as a precondition for access, which is what happened here." Gutman said the fundamental problem was that NDEE's justification for the fee was the time needed to review the records for trade secrets and attorney-client privilege once they had been identified through a computer program search. Chief Justice Mike Heavican said: "Doesn't the law require somebody to review for that?" Guttman said the state office was talking about a secondary review, which is entirely discretionary. The law says the government "may" withhold a public document if it falls within a statutory exception. "Our position and what the district court agreed with was the government is absolutely within its right to review documents to see if they fall in discretionary exceptions to disclosure. They just can't charge the public for that," he said. Gutman said the legislature said public bodies could charge to provide documents and make documents available. What they're doing here is charging to withhold documents. Cassel circled back to his initial question, this time for Gutman: "The question is not what we think the policy should be. The question is what does the policy, adopted by the Legislature in statute, mean?" He said this is really a policy debate. "I think they want the law changed. And I just think that this is the wrong chamber," Gutman said. Today in history: Feb. 8 1952: Queen Elizabeth II 1960: Hollywood Walk of Fame 1971: NASDAQ 1973: Watergate Committee 2007: Anna Nicole Smith 2020: Coronavirus 2021: Tesla 1693: William & Mary 1968: Orangeburg Putin: US 'needs to stop supplying weapons' to Ukraine and urge Kyiv to hold peace talks Vladimir Putin has told former Fox News host Tucker Carlson that Washington should recognise Moscow's interests and persuade Ukraine to sit down for talks. The Russian president also said he believes a deal can be reached to release US reporter Evan Gershkovich, detained in Russia last March. Thursday night's interview is the first time Putin has sat down with a Western journalist since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. The Russian leader repeated many well-worn disputed justifications about the conflict, including that it was necessary to protect Russian speakers in Ukraine and prevent the country from posing a threat to Russia by joining NATO. He also mentioned various false narratives that the Kyiv government is filled with neo-Nazis and about Ukrainian history. The interview was a major scoop for the Trump-supporting right-wing commentator Carlson, who has frequently criticised US support for Ukraine and referred to Volodymyr Zelenskyy as a Ukrainian pimp and rat-like. Friday, Feb. 9, 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, gestures as he speaks during an interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson. - Gavriil Grigorov/Sputnik The decision to interview Putin was widely criticised, with Carlson falsely claiming that no Western journalists had "bothered" to speak to Putin directly. The Kremlin looks set to benefit from the exposure to a wider audience in the US, where war fatigue is on the rise and efforts to secure more aid for Kyiv have stalled in Congress. Russia's number one spent more than half an hour giving a history of Russia, Lithuania, Poland and Ukraine, in a dense monologue that spanned the ninth-century rule of Oleg the Wise through to a critique of Bolshevik revolutionary Lenin. However, most of the interview focused on Ukraine, where the war is nearing the two-year mark. Putin pointed at Zelenskyy's refusal to conduct talks with the Kremlin. He argued it's up to Washington to stop supplying Ukraine with weapons and convince Kyiv - which he called a US satellite - to sit down for negotiations. We have never refused negotiations, Putin said. You should tell the current Ukrainian leadership to stop and come to a negotiating table. A majority of Ukrainians remain committed to the war and want to see Russian forces removed from their territory, according to polling by Gallop. It is unclear how an end to the war could be negotiated without ceding parts of southern and eastern Ukraine to Russia - something Ukrainians opposed. Putin warned the West would never succeed in inflicting a strategic defeat on Russia in Ukraine and rejected allegations that Russia was harbouring plans to attack Poland or other NATO countries. White House national security spokesman John Kirby tried to minimise the impact of Carlsons interview ahead of its release. Remember, youre listening to Vladimir Putin," he said. "You shouldnt take at face value anything he has to say." Freeing US journalists on the table Putin has heavily limited his contact with international media since he launched the war in Ukraine in February 2022. Meanwhile, Russian authorities have cracked down on independent media, forcing some Russian outlets to close, blocking others and ordering several foreign reporters to leave the country. Two journalists working for US news organisations The Wall Street Journals Evan Gershkovich and Radio Free Europes Alsu Kurmasheva are in jail. Evan Gershkovich is escorted from the Lefortovsky court after the hearing in Moscow, Russia, Friday, Jan. 26, 2024. - Alexander Zemlianichenko/Copyright 2024 The AP. All rights reserved Asked by Carlson whether Russia would release Gershkovich, Putin said Moscow is open to talks but repeated that the reporter was charged with espionage, an accusation Gershkovich has denied. He was caught red-handed when he was secretly getting classified information, Putin said of Gershkovich, adding that he doesn't exclude that the reporter could return home. There is no taboo on settling this issue," Putin said. We are ready to solve it but there are certain conditions that are being discussed between special services. I believe an agreement can be reached." He pointed to a man imprisoned in a US-allied country for liquidating a bandit" who killed Russian soldiers during the fighting in the Caucasus: He put our soldiers taken prisoners on a road and then drove a car over their heads. There was a patriot who liquidated him in one of the European capitals. Putin didn't mention names, but he appeared to refer to Vadim Krasikov, a Russian serving a life sentence in Germany after being convicted of the 2019 brazen daylight killing of Zelimkhan Tornike Khangoshvili, a 40-year-old Georgian citizen of Chechen ethnicity. German judges who convicted Krasikov said he had acted on the orders of Russian federal authorities, who provided him with a false identity, a fake passport and the resources to carry out the hit. $11 billion is a lot of money. Its more than the annual budget of Montana, among other states. Its more than the loan the International Monetary Fund is considering giving to Egypt to stave off economic collapse. It is 14 times the size of the latest funding gap for the public transit system here in the District of Columbia, described as an existential crisis forcing service cuts. That enormous sum is the estimated cost of the damage from the atmospheric river thats been pummeling California since Sundayafter a previous atmospheric river deluged the state last week. While AccuWeather released its $9 billion$11 billion estimate on Monday, rains continued Tuesday and even into Wednesday, with the death toll rising from three as of Sunday to nine by Tuesday morning (mainly caused by falling trees or car accidents). Sunday alone was Los Angeless wettest February calendar day in 110 years, and the third overall wettest day since records began being kept in 1877, according to local news service KTLA. Several areas of Los Angeles County got a foot of rain in around 48 hours, causing some 475 mudslides, while winds and fallen trees left over 850,000 homes and businesses without power further north. We know that climate change is increasing the severity of many types of weather events. Category 5 hurricanes, for instance, are becoming so common that scientists, in a paper published Monday, now say we need a Category 6 to account for hurricanes with wind speeds well above Category 5s threshold of 157 mph. So its no surprise that multiple studies have found that atmospheric rivers, which are bands of moisture in the air, are also getting worse. As Dave Levitan wrote for The New Republic this week, The warming atmosphere can hold more water, meaning it can drop more of it on us all at once. And all of this increasingly destructive weather has a cost. For more than 40 years, from 1980 to 2023, the average number of annual weather disasters in the United States each year with losses exceeding $1 billion was 8.5. In 2023, there were 28. And California, along with pretty much everywhere else, remains dangerously underprepared. As Dave observed, some of the most important measures cities could take to mitigate extreme precipitation are strikingly mundane: not massive seawalls, but stuff like bigger sewers, green roofs, strategic landscaping. Not that this necessarily comes cheap, though. The reason the sewers and storm drains arent built for anything even close to the catastrophe unfolding in California is largely thanks to cost, Dave wrote. Which brings us back to $11 billion. Granted, one of the reasons the costs of this storm could be so high, AccuWeather noted, is that it has hit some of the most expensive neighborhoods in the state. And you might see numbers like this and think, Well, insurance companies and wealthy real estate owners will bear the brunt of it. In some cases, sure. But storms can financially wreck the people, businesses, and municipalities that dont fall into that category. And dont forget: The insurance industry is slowly abandoning California, while similarly retreating from Florida, Louisiana, and other disaster-prone states. Our safety nets for extreme weather, which were always inadequate, are getting even more threadbare. $11 billionand, lets not forget, nine livesis a reminder that not preparing for climate change, and not cutting emissions fast enough, costs a heck of a lot, as well. Good News/Bad News The EPA estimates that its tougher air quality standardspecifically regulating fine particulates, commonly called sootcould prevent up to 4,500 premature deaths and 290,000 lost workdays, yielding up to $46 billion in net health benefits in 2032, according to the agencys press release. The standard is also predicted to result in 800,000 fewer asthma-related emergency visits per year, reports NPR. Researchers studying sea sponges think theyve discovered evidence that the world has already warmed 1.7 degrees Celsius (thats over three degrees Fahrenheit) relative to preindustrial levels. Thats way more than previously estimated. Other scientists dispute the finding. Stat of the Week $57.4 billion Thats the combined profits of ExxonMobil and Chevron last year. While its down from the obscene profitability of 2022, The New York Times Stanley Reed reports, it would otherwise be both giants biggest annual profit in a decade. What Im Reading Rise of the Lone Star Tick Brings New Disease Threats A lot of people in the Northeastern United States hear ticks and think Lyme disease. Thats outdated, reports Rene Ebersole: Environmental conditions have tilted toward the lone star [tick]s advantage, said Monmouth County tick researcher Andrea Egizi. The forests are recovering from decades of logging, white-tailed deer populations have rebounded, and winters are getting warmer due to climate change. Its kind of this perfect storm for them to be taking over, Egizi said. Citizens in New Jersey encountered mostly blacklegged ticks until roughly 10 years ago, when the counts switched over to being dominated by lone stars, she added. Research shows the lone star ticks expansion has been progressing for a few decades; its now established from Florida to Maine and as far west as Nebraska. The rise of the lone star tick is alarming, say public health officials, because it carries novel maladies. These include a Lyme-like bacterial disease called ehrlichiosis, which first appeared in humans [in] the mid-1980s; a meat allergy that sounds like a female superhero, alpha-gal syndrome; and the emerging Bourbon virus, first identified in humans around 10 years ago when a Bourbon County, Kansas man died after being bitten. Read Rene Ebersoles report at Undark. This article first appeared in Life in a Warming World, a weekly TNR newsletter authored by deputy editor Heather Souvaine Horn. Sign up here. Ciscomani Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-Ariz.) speaks during an Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry event at The Arizona Biltmore on Thursday, April 6, 2023, in Phoenix. For far too long, southern Arizona has shouldered the brunt of our nations border crisis. We are on the frontlines of this crisis, from protecting our communities from cartel-based violence, to providing humanitarian aid to migrants, to absorbing the devastating impacts of port of entry closures on businesses and families alike. Incredibly, congressional Republicans, including my opponent, Juan Ciscomani, have completely caved to Trumps desire to keep the crisis alive for political purposes and are now refusing to bring the most significant border legislation introduced in decades to a vote. Is the bill perfect? Not by a longshot. But as a true compromise, the bipartisan bill would have made progress on many of the most salient aspects of our border crisis. By saying he would have a very difficult time voting for it, Ciscomani has chosen partisan political gamesmanship over the needs of all Arizonans, and especially his constituents in this border district. Trump and Biden have failed us Our southern border is a mess. As a result of a whole host of factors, ranging from gang violence, political repression, natural disasters and economic collapse in their home countries, to a growing labor demand here, the number of migrants seeking entry has ballooned, with many now coming from as far away as Ukraine, Cuba, Nicaragua, Venezuela and Senegal. Fentanyl, other illegal drugs and firearms continue to flow across the border, most through ports of entry badly in need of expansion and upgrades with the latest anti-drug and contraband technology. Washington has not served us well on this issue. Trump carried out the unconscionable cruelty of family separation while spending more than $15 billion to build just sections of a wall that could have been better spent getting more boots on the ground or expanding technology to more effectively secure the border. While the Biden administration has sought to alleviate pressure on the border by incentivizing online applications for entry and toughening enforcement for lawbreakers, it has failed to keep pace with the rising number of migrants and their changing composition. Arizonans, especially those living in border communities, have paid the price for both parties border policies and inaction. Bipartisan border deal is a good start Until a week ago, prospects for genuine progress on solving the border crisis had never looked so bright. With 60 votes needed to overcome a Senate filibuster, any border-immigration deal must be one that attracts votes from both sides of the aisle, and a bipartisan group of senators has been hard at work on a potential deal. Why Sinema must fight Trump: To pass her border bill That deal would put in place new emergency authority to cap the number of asylum requests to prevent border agents from being overwhelmed. The deal would fund the desperately needed personnel and equipment to process migrants and stop the flow of fentanyl: additional border patrol agents, immigration judges, asylum officers and cutting-edge inspection machines capable of detecting fentanyl. Many other changes not included are needed, such as providing citizenship status to DACA youths and modernizing our immigration system, but the deal would be a start a good start. Ciscomani should stop playing politics If Juan Ciscomani was actually serious about solving the border crisis, he would stop playing politics with the border and actually fix it. There is still time to reject Trumps self-interested political ploy to keep the border crisis alive. There is still time to save a bipartisan border deal. That, however, will take political courage and a willingness to work across the aisle. Arizona is tired of paying the price for inaction in Washington. Kirsten Engel is a former Arizona state senator and a 2024 candidate for Arizonas 6th Congressional District. Reach her at engelforarizona@gmail.com. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Rep. Juan Ciscomani should side with border communities, not Trump Pauline Pusser was killed in an infamous 1967 ambush when she was responding to a call alongside her sheriff husband, Tennessee officials said. A recent tip has reignited the case, as investigators hopes to bring Pussers killer to justice. The early morning of Aug. 12, 1967, the couple was heading to a disturbance call near the Tennessee-Mississippi line when a vehicle pulled up alongside theirs and began firing into the car with a military rifle, according to The Historical Marker Database and McNairy County Historical Society. Pusser, 35, was shot as she and her husband sped away trying to outrun the ambush, officials said. When he pulled over to check her injuries about two miles down the road, the accused assailants returned and began firing into the vehicle again, officials said. This time, Pusser was shot in the head and died, according to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. Historical officials believe the target was her husband, McNairy County Sheriff Buford Pusser. The McNairy sheriffs chin was blown off, witnesses said. He sustained severe bone and tissue damage, and he spent nearly three weeks in the hospital before returning to work, officials said. The tenure of Sheriff Pusser and the ambush are the subject of a 1973 film called Walking Tall. No one has ever been arrested or charged in Pauline Pussers death. Now, more than 56 years later, a tip to investigators led them to exhume Pussers body, the TBI announced. The tip prompted investigators to review the case again, and they learned no one had ever performed an autopsy on Pussers body, officials told McClatchy News. Officials visited the Adamsville Cemetery on Feb. 8 and dug up her remains in an attempt to answer critical questions and provide crucial information that may assist in identifying the person or persons responsible, a spokesperson for the TBI told McClatchy News. After speaking with the district attorney, investigators said they exhumed her body with the support of the womans family. A museum dedicated to the legacy of the sheriff regularly honors Pauline Pusser. This was the man Buford Pusser the man who became the target of many assassination attempts one of which took the life of his wife and left him emotionally and physically scarred, the museums website says. McNairy County is in southwestern Tennessee along the border of Mississippi. Two women were killed 16 years apart. DNA now identifies suspect, Nevada cops say Man cleaning yard finds skull that may belong to missing former resident, AL cops say 73-year-old man and friend dig up grandmas grave to move remains, Missouri cops say 20-year-old found shot in the face 43 years ago now identified, California cops say Sweden has decided to close its investigation into the explosions on the underwater Nord Stream gas pipelines 18 months ago, officials said on Wednesday. The Nordic nation's investigation was one of three probes into the September 2022 explosions that hit the pipelines, which were built to carry Russian natural gas to Germany. Denmark and Germany are also examining the blasts, but officials say Sweden doesn't have jurisdiction to investigate. The explosions happened as Europe attempted to wean itself off Russian energy sources following the Kremlins full-scale invasion of Ukraine, with the attack contributing to tensions that followed the start of the war. The undersea explosions ruptured the Nord Stream 1 pipeline, which was Russias main natural gas supply route to Germany until Russia cut off supplies at the end of August that year. The blasts also damaged the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, which never entered service because Germany suspended its certification process shortly before Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The detonations took place about 80 metres underwater on the ocean floor in the Baltic Sea in the economic zones of Sweden and Denmark. Seismic measurements indicated that explosions took place shortly before the leaks were discovered. Calling a halt Public prosecutor Mats Ljungqvist of the Swedish Prosecution Authority said in a statement that its investigation "has been systematic and thorough. "Against the background of our current situation, we can state that Swedish jurisdiction does not apply, he declared. The prosecution authority said the primary purpose of its investigation was to establish whether Swedish citizens were involved in the act and whether Swedish territory was used to carry out the act. This would thereby risk damaging Swedish interests or security. Pipes at the landfall facilities of the 'Nord Stream 2' gas pipeline are pictured in Lubmin, northern Germany, on Feb. 15, 2022 - Michael Sohn/AP Since Sweden and Swedish interests were not targeted, it said, Swedish jurisdiction is thus lacking. Kenneth hlenschlger Buhl of the Royal Danish Defense College said Sweden's surprising decision indicates there could have been some kind of a political involvement. Sweden stands in a sensitive position as it wants to join NATO and may not want to rock the boat further, hlenschlger Buhl said. An international mystery More than 16 months after the sabotage there is no accepted explanation with a series of unconfirmed reports variously accusing Russia, the US and Ukraine. The pipelines have long been a target of criticism by the US and some of its allies, who warned that they posed a risk to Europes energy security by increasing dependence on Russian gas. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Russian officials have accused the US of staging the explosions, which they have described as a terror attack. The US has denied involvement. In March 2023, German media reported that a pro-Ukraine group was involved in the sabotage using a vessel and setting off from the German port of Rostock. Ukraine rejected suggestions it might have ordered the attack and German officials voiced caution over the accusation. The German and Danish investigations have yet to shed light on the incident. While Swedish prosecutors have said that a state actor was the most likely culprit, they cautioned that the identity of the perpetrator was still unclear and hinted that it was likely to remain so. Senior White House officials met with Arab American and Muslim American community leaders in Michigan on Thursday, amid frustrations in those communities over President Bidens handling of the Israel-Hamas war. This meeting was held to ensure that the White House and those with the ability to change the course of the genocide unfolding in Gaza very clearly hear and understand the demands of our community directly from us, Dearborn Mayor Abdullah Hammoud (D) said in a thread of posts on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. We remained uncompromising in our values and our demands for a permanent ceasefire, ending unrestricted military support to the State of Israel, and expediting humanitarian aid and funding to [the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East], among others, Hammoud continued in the thread. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre also discussed the meeting in her daily press briefing Thursday, saying it is a part of the Biden-Harris ongoing outreach to Muslim and Arab Americans. We want to hear directly from them. We want to hear their concerns. We believe its important for for these leaders to be to be able to speak directly to officials in the White House, Jean-Pierre said. The top aides trip to Michigan, first reported on by CNN, reportedly featured Samantha Powers, United States Agency for International Development administrator; Tom Perez, Office of Intergovernmental Affairs director; Jon Finer, principal deputy national security adviser; Steve Benjamin, director of the Office of Public Engagement; Jamie Citron, principal deputy director of the Office of Public Engagement; Mazen Basrawi, national security council director for partnerships and global engagement; and Daniel Arrigg Koh, deputy director of the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs. In remarks from the White House on Thursday, Biden called Israels response in Gaza to October attacks by Palestinian militant group Hamas over the top. Ive been pushing really hard, really hard to get humanitarian assistance into Gaza, Biden said. There are a lot of innocent people who are starving, lot of innocent people who are in trouble and dying. And its got to stop. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. RENO, Nevada Donald Trump easily won the Nevada Republican caucuses on Thursday, drawing closer to a fall rematch with President Joe Biden. Trump was expected to claim most or all of Nevadas 26 delegates to the GOPs presidential nominating convention in Milwaukee, bolstering his standing as the contest moves to South Carolina later this month and Super Tuesday in March. The outcome of Nevadas caucuses was never in doubt, with Trump running only against longshot businessperson and pastor Ryan Binkley. Nikki Haley, Trumps only serious rival, participated instead in the states Tuesday primary, where she suffered a humiliating, second-place finish to none of these candidates. The way the party rigged this caucus for Donald Trump, almost no campaigning was done here, said Chuck Muth, a former Nevada Republican Party executive director and conservative writer. The back-to-back elections put Trumps popularity with the GOP base in Nevada on display. But they also reflected the former presidents pull among GOP leaders, with the caucuses orchestrated by a state party whose chair was indicted after falsely claiming to be an elector for Trump in 2020. Nevadas Trump-friendly GOP barred candidates from participating in the caucuses and Tuesdays primary, which did not award any delegates. Trump allies and prominent Republicans like Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo had urged voters to choose the none of these option to send a message to Haley. Haley criticized the state party for tilting the election in favor of Trump and did not spend time or money campaigning here. Speaking to supporters in Las Vegas on Thursday night, Trump thanked them and trolled Haley, saying, Id like to congratulate none of the above. He gave a shout out to former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in the crowd. Trump gave an erroneous percentage for the margin that none of these candidates" beat Haley by, and he misstated the date of Nevadas primary. It was Tuesday, not Wednesday. And, as Trump waits for the Supreme Court to rule in a landmark case challenging his eligibility for the ballot, he said: Is there any way we can call the election for next Tuesday? While Trumps MAGA faithful were pleased with the predictable result, other Republicans in the state expressed surprise and frustration that they couldnt directly choose between the two remaining candidates. Splitting up the candidates, I think caused massive confusion and anger and apathy, said Amy Tarkanian, a former chair of the Nevada Republican Party. She lauded Haley for refusing to take part in the caucuses. She sent a message saying, Im not going to cave in to you guys. Because really what they did is a Trump scheme, Tarkanian said. But Tarkanian didnt let Haley off the hook, either, saying Haley harmed her own cause by not scheduling visits to Reno and Las Vegas. Lisa Kashinsky contributed to this report. Former Fox News host Tucker Carlson has released his interview with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who started with a long diatribe on Russian history and its relationship with Ukraine. The two-hour, seven-minute interview was recorded on 6 February and released in full shortly before 6pm ET on Thursday. Carlson travelled to Moscow for Putins first interview with a Western media figure since the invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022. Putin repeated his argument that Ukraine wasnt a real country which was shaped by the will of Soviet leader Josef Stalin. When Carlson requested that jailed Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich be allowed to return to the US with Carlson and his crew as a show of goodwill from Putin, the Russian leader said that his goodwill had run out, complaining about the lack of reciprocity from the West. Asked why he doesnt call President Joe Biden and work out a solution in Ukraine, Putin asked: Whats there to work out? Stop supplying weapons and it will be over within weeks, he added. Putin also claimed that peace talks had at one point reached a very high stage of coordination of positions ... they were almost finalized. Key Points Putin rants about Ukraine in rare interview with ex-Fox host Tucker Carlson Putin repeats nonsense claim Boris Johnson scuppered efforts to end Ukraine invasion Kremlin cannot stand not getting western approval, Russian opposition leader says Tucker Carlsons strange interview with Vladimir Putin Putin showed Tucker Carlson his place as an admitted media actor, former Russian foreign minister says Saturday 10 February 2024 21:00 , Gustaf Kilander Actual and aspiring strongmen praise how Putin handles foreign and domestic affairs. He showed Tucker Carlson his place as an admitted media actora place of a lackey promulgating ignorance and lies. Dictator's classic. Andrei V Kozyrev (@andreivkozyrev) February 9, 2024 Tucker Carlson is not on a Ukrainian kill list, despite social media rumors Saturday 10 February 2024 20:02 , Graig Graziosi Rumors circulating online that former Fox News host Tucker Carlson was placed on a Ukrainian kill list for his highly criticised interview with Russian President Vladimir Putin are false, according to a new report. A photo supposedly showing Carlson among the names of those Ukrainian forces wanted dead has been misconstrued by social media commenters, according to an Associated Press analysis. Claims that Carlson has been sanctioned by the European Union for the interview were also shown to be false, the report states. The photo circulating on social media shows a picture of Carlson and short biography describing him as a pro-Russian propagandist, as an accomplice of Russian war criminals and occupiers, and accuses him of attacks on the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. READ MORE: Putin always told us that his invasion was not about stopping NATO expansion' Saturday 10 February 2024 19:00 , Gustaf Kilander This! This is so spot on. Putin always told us that his invasion was not about stopping NATO expansion (which wasnt happening) but people refused to listen to him. https://t.co/McLfWo9xuL Michael McFaul (@McFaul) February 9, 2024 Putin just cannot refrain from insulting people who suck up to him even when it harms him' Saturday 10 February 2024 17:00 , Gustaf Kilander Indeed. Putin just cannot refrain from insulting people who suck up to him even when it harms him. Similarly Sergei Lavrov insulted the then subservient EU representative Josep Borrell when he came to Moscow. Borrell learned his lesson: Always stand up to the Kremlin! https://t.co/m3OWg0elYE Anders Aslund (@anders_aslund) February 9, 2024 A softball encounter with lots of agreement Saturday 10 February 2024 15:00 , Io Dodds In advance of his interview, Carlson made the bold claim that not a single Western journalist had bothered to interview the Russian president since the conflict began nearly two years ago. He was quickly contradicted by the Kremlin itself, which said that many other reporters had asked and been turned down because of their supposed pro-Western bias. Carlson, meanwhile, was chosen because he has a position which differs from other English-language media. Indeed, Carlson has a long history of pro-Putin advocacy. In 2017, he asked: Why is Vladimir Putin such a bad guy? In 2019, he claimed the US should take the side of Russia in any conflict with Ukraine. Ever since, he has opposed American support for the war and defended Russias conduct. Thursdays interview largely continued in that vein. Although Carlson sometimes tried to grill the Russian leader or hold him to account, there were also plenty of soft-serve questions and chummy exchanges. When Carlson asked Putin who he thought blew up the Nord Stream oil pipeline, which runs under the sea between Russia and Germany, the two men quickly agreed that it was the CIA or some other Nato agency. They also agreed that American support for Ukraine is destroying the international stature of the US dollar, and that Nato helped provoke the war by accepting Eastern European countries. (The question of why so many of Russias neighbours and near-neighbours felt they needed to join a defensive organisation was not one that Carlson troubled to ask.) Nor did Carlson spend much time pushing back on Putins claims or challenging his decision to invade Ukraine in the first place. Perhaps, then, it was fitting that Putin was the one to end the interview. Shall we end here, or is there anything else? said the 71-year-old, after concluding his answer to a question. No, I think thats great, murmured Carlson. Thank you, Mr President, So clearly wrong : Historian debunks Carlsons interview Saturday 10 February 2024 14:45 , Graig Graziosi Historian Tom Holland has debunked Vladimir Putins claims he made during his much-anticipated interview with Tucker Carlson. The former Fox News host interviewed the Russian President, who started with a long diatribe on Russian history and its relationship with Ukraine, during the two-hour interview, which aired on Thursday (8 February). Historian Tom Holland debunks Putins claims after Tucker Carlson interview VIDEO: Putin repeats de-Nazification claim, meanders around Carlson questions Saturday 10 February 2024 13:00 , Gustaf Kilander A dictators outrageous lies always function as loyalty tests and trial balloons' Saturday 10 February 2024 11:00 , Gustaf Kilander A dictator's outrageous lies always function as loyalty tests and trial balloons. Who will nod their head most vigorously as the Dear Leader says the sky is green, or blames Poland for Hitler's invasion? Which Western sycophants will say he has an interesting point? Garry Kasparov (@Kasparov63) February 9, 2024 It showed how bunkered & egotistical Putin is. He desperately needs his Republican allies to keep blocking Ukraine aid. But instead their agreed lies about "Ukrainian Nazis" and Zelenskyy being a crook, he rambled on with Soviet fake histories even the GOP wont repeat. Garry Kasparov (@Kasparov63) February 9, 2024 Putin is a dictator full of superiority & inferiority complexes, just like the USSR' Saturday 10 February 2024 09:00 , Gustaf Kilander Two conclusions from the deplorable Putin-Carlson encounter. (It was no interview but a lecture.) 1. Putin is a dictator full of superiority & inferiority complexes, just like the USSR. 2. Carlson is no journalist but a hired apologist of dictatorship. We knew both things before. https://t.co/USHqhO3Ied Anders Aslund (@anders_aslund) February 9, 2024 Carlson tried to push his pet topics, with little success Saturday 10 February 2024 07:00 , Io Dodds One striking facet of the interview was how frequently Carlson, who was fired by Fox News last year numerous accusations of bigotry and misleading journalism, took the opportunity to push his particular hobby horses. Faced with a more or less unique opportunity to confront one of the most powerful men in the world, who is responsible for launching one of the bloodiest conflicts on European soil in decades, Carlson chose to quiz Putin about whether he was a Christian leader and other topics close to Carlsons heart. Do you see the supernatural at work as you look out across whats happening in the world now? Do you see God at work? Do you ever think to yourself, these are forces that are not human? After a pause, Putin answered: No, to be honest. I dont think so. At two points, Carlson a longtime Sinosceptic asked Putin about the rising danger of China to the US and other countries, such as asking if he was worried that developing countries were becoming dominated by Chinese influence. We have heard these bogeyman stories before, said Putin. Chinas foreign policy is not aggressive; its idea is always to look for compromise.... it is to your own detriment, Mr Tucker, that you are limiting cooperation with China. Carlson also frequently sought Putins agreement on his belief that the US and other countries are no longer controlled by elected politicians, but by a deep state bureaucracy, or that Ukraine is effectively controlled by foreign interests. Putin, though, did not always play ball, saying that he believed Zelensky has the freedom to negotiate a peace deal, and that a change of opinion among US elites could support that. On one of these topics, at least, Putin was expansive: the threat of artificial intelligence and the prospect of using technology to create a new form of humanity. Due to genetic researches, it is now possible to create a superhuman: a specialised human being, a genetically engineered athlete, scientist, military man.... The time will come to reach an international agreement on how to regulate these things. VIDEO: Putin says it would be 'understandable' if Hungary annexed parts of Ukraine Saturday 10 February 2024 05:00 , Gustaf Kilander 'De-Nazification' means whatever we say it means Saturday 10 February 2024 04:00 , Io Dodds Putin, alongside many Russian propogandists, has long claimed that Russias invasion of Ukraine was about de-Nazifying the country. He repeated those claims at length in Thursdays interview. However, despite repeated probing from Carlson, he never quite managed to define exactly what de-Nazification would mean or why it justified an armed invasion. He described how some Ukrainian nationalists collaborated with the Nazi occupation during the Second World War, and claimed that the country remains a hotbed of neo-Nazism today. (He did not mention the Soviet general Andrey Vlasov, who led a brigade of Russian collaborators against Stalins forces, or the fact that Putins Russia has served as an inspiration for numerous neo-Nazis in the US and Europe.) Hence, Putin claimed, Russias war in Ukraine cannot end because such ideologies have not yet been stamped out, and nor has the Ukrainian government agreed to do so as part of a peace process. VIDEO: Putin calls Ukraine an artificial state shaped at Stalins will Saturday 10 February 2024 03:00 , Gustaf Kilander Russia could test NATOs Article 5 within five years Saturday 10 February 2024 02:00 , Gustaf Kilander "It cannot be ruled out that within a three- to five-year period, Russia will test Article 5 and Natos solidarity. That was not Natos assessment in 2023. This is new information that is coming to the fore now."https://t.co/zcIQ82Kkj8 max seddon (@maxseddon) February 9, 2024 No plans to release jailed US journalist Saturday 10 February 2024 01:15 , Io Dodds Carlsons interview with Putin offered slim hope for Evan Gershkovich, an American journalist for The Wall Street Journal who has been imprisoned in Russia on charges of espionage for nearly a year. I want to ask you directly, said Carlson, without getting into the details of what happened, if as a sign of your decency you would be willing to release him to us, and well bring him back to the United States. After a long pause, and a heavy sigh, Putin refused. He claimed that Gershkovich was caught red handed receiving classified information, and doing it covertly. He also suggested that Gershkovich was working for the US special services and was essentially controlled by the US authorities. The Journal has insisted that Mr Gershkovich is innocent and that his activities fell strictly under the umbrella of legitimate journalism. Carlson, a fellow journalist, nevertheless seemed at least somewhat sympathetic to Putins framing, saying: The guys obviously not a spy, hes a kid. And maybe he was breaking your laws in some way, but hes not a super-spy. Putin claims Boris Johnson shot down peace attempts Saturday 10 February 2024 00:30 , Io Dodds Throughout the interview, Putin insisted that Russia is willing to negotiate and that Ukraine and the USA, rather than the country that invaded Ukraine, are the main barriers to peace. As part of that, he referenced longstanding reports in Ukrainian and other media that a potential peace deal was scuppered in April 2022 by then British prime minister Boris Johnson. [Zelensky] put his signature and then he himself said, we were ready to sign it and the war would have been over long ago. However, Prime Minister Johnson came talk to us out of it, and weve missed that chance, Putin said. Where is Mr Johnson now? And the war continues. Johnson himself has denied those claims, calling them total nonsense and Russian propaganda. And while his opposition to negotiations with Putin is a matter of public record, the idea that he was the deciding factor in Ukraines decision or that he shot down a peace deal that would otherwise have been viable is far from proven. The interview was targeted as much at the Russian audience as at the Western one' Friday 9 February 2024 23:45 , Gustaf Kilander Former Ukrainian MP Anton Geraschenko wrote on X after the interview that Putins main message was Russia wants peace, Ukraine and the West dont. Lets not forget that the interview was targeted as much at the Russian audience as at the Western one (Tuckers arrival to Moscow for the interview was broadcast in Russian media better than Putins public appearances), he noted. Regarding Tucker Carlson's interview with Putin. As I said earlier, Putin's main message was "Russia wants peace, Ukraine and the West don't". Let's not forget that the interview was targeted as much at the Russian audience as at the Western one (Tucker's arrival to Moscow https://t.co/Fi1iy27cfo pic.twitter.com/rmPD9HPRcy Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) February 9, 2024 Putin clearly not feeling very confident' Friday 9 February 2024 23:00 , Gustaf.Kilander Political scientist Ian Bremmer noted after the interview that the Russian economy now is smaller than Canadas, despite having the largest geographic landmass of any country in the world. All these important resources, more nuclear weapons even than the United States. But [Putins] clearly not feeling very confident about that. Hence the need to give a huge history lesson to everyone that is willing to listen. And of course, you know, not much Tucker could do there. Its not like hes going to suddenly start interrupting the Russian leader, he said. He added that it was really unclear how much of this would appeal to your typical Tucker Carlson audience. I mean, Putins talk of a multipolar world is something I find fairly interesting. I do think that the global economic order is increasingly multipolar. The security order is not. Its still dominated by the United States. But that doesnt mean the US wants to be the worlds policeman. And especially given the divisions inside the United States, its very difficult for it to do so. And its failed on many occasions. But I dont think that thats something thats really going to engage a lot of people that are talking about or listening to this interview. 'Stop supplying weapons and it will be over within weeks' Friday 9 February 2024 22:15 , Io Dodds Putin had a simple demand for the United States: stop supplying weapons to Ukraine. Do that, the president proclaimed, and the whole war will be over within weeks. That rather ominous statement came in response to Carlson asking whether Putin was doing everything he could to find a diplomatic solution, and why he couldnt simply get on the phone to Joe Biden to end the conflict which Carlson has repeatedly described as a proxy war between the US and Russia. Whats to work out? Its very simple, said Putin. If you want to stop fighting, you need to stop supplying weapons... whats easier? Why would I call him? What should I talk him about? Or beg him for what? You are going to deliver such and such weapons to Ukraine oh, Im afraid, please dont? What is there to talk about? Although Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky has insisted that his country is not losing the war, some experts are sceptical about his ability to retake the territory still occupied by Russia. After stunning the world by repulsing Russias initial invasion, Ukraines long-awaited counteroffensive has stalled, and future support from the US and the European Union is in limbo after objections from sceptical politicians. Putin doesn't think Ukraine is a real country Friday 9 February 2024 21:30 , Io Dodds Your basic education was in history, as I understand? If you dont mind, I will take only thirty seconds, or one minute, to give you a little historical background. That was how Vladimir Putin, speaking through an interpreter, kicked off what turned out to be a nearly 30-minute lecture on the intertwined history of Russia and Ukraine. His point? To portray Ukraine as a creation of imperialist powers with no identity of its own and no real claim to sovereignty. (Never mind that Russia itself was created by Eastern Europeans colonising vast swathes of Eurasia.) Starting with the election of Prince Rurik to the throne of Novgorod in 862 AD, he described how successive empires, including the Soviet Union, shaped the modern boundaries of Ukraine by transferring land from Poland, Hungary, Romania, and Crimea. So, Putin concluded, we have every reason to affirm that Ukraine is an artificial state that was shaped at Stalins will. Carlson quickly pushed back, asking the president if he thought that Hungary had the right to take its land back from Ukraine, or that other nations have the right to return to their 17th-century borders. After a long pause, Putin replied that he wasnt sure but that, given the nature of Stalins repressive regime, it would be understandable if they tried. He then told a personal anecdote about taking a road trip through the Soviet Union in the early 1980s and encountering Hungarian Ukrainians, who still spoke Hungarian and considered themselves Hungarians. At least, he clarified, he had never told Hungarian president Viktor Orban to his face that he could annex any part of Ukraine. Putins history lesson was something you do when youre insecure Friday 9 February 2024 20:45 , Gustaf Kilander Political scientist Ian Bremmer said after the interview that no news was made. Substantively, we learned really nothing new. Putin going on a very long history lesson with tangents, going back to Genghis Khan and the Roman Empire. And maybe we should talk about the fact that the Roman Empire is on Putins mind, too, just like so many people on Twitter, he added. But that if anything was going to lose a large percentage of your audience, that was almost guaranteed to do so. I remember so many trips to Beijing and youd meet with Chinese leaders, and the first 20 minutes were about Chinese leadership and rightful place in the world back in the 15th century. Thats something you do when youre insecure, he said. As the Chinese were doing better and as they were becoming a larger economy and feeling more comfortable in the rest of the world, and that more countries had to listen to them, they did less of that. Softball questions, conspiracy theories and a 30-minute history lesson: Tucker Carlson's strange interview with Vladimir Putin Friday 9 February 2024 20:00 , Io Dodds Around eight minutes into his mammoth two-hour interview with Vladimir Putin, Tucker Carlson was forced to interrupt. I beg your pardon. Can you tell us what period...? Im losing track of where in history we are, said the former Fox News host, who had been listening to Putins words with an expression of deepening vexation. It was in the 13th century, said the Russian president matter-of-factly. The exchange was only one of many odd moments in Carlsons much-trailed meeting with the ex-KGB strongman, who has dominated his countrys politics for more than two decades and is now virtually a dictator. Streamed for free on Carlsons website on Thursday evening, it was Putins first interview with a Western journalist since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. Political scientists says Putin interview comes as war not going very well for the Ukrainians' Friday 9 February 2024 19:15 , Gustaf Kilander Ian Bremmer, a political scientist and the president of Eurasia Group, a political risk research and consulting firm, said after Tucker Carlsons interview with Vladimir Putin that this is now entering almost the third year of war when the Russians have invaded Ukraine, it is increasingly not going very well for the Ukrainians and therefore not very well for the United States and its allies. And that means that the timing of this interview is important, especially in the context of a very heated, very divisive US election, when increasingly support for Ukraine is becoming a matter of political difference. And it wasnt six months ago, but it certainly is becoming so very rapidly now, he added. He argued that Carlson was invited because he is someone that historically has said that if hes on a side, hes not on the side of Ukraine, hes on the side of Russia, and hes given very favorable interviews with people that are ideologically aligned with Putin, like Viktor Orban in Hungary, the one European leader of a country that has consistently taken Putins side more closely than he has the Americans and the Europeans. Putin mocked over claim Poland forced Hitler to invade Friday 9 February 2024 18:30 , Gustaf Kilander He continues: Hitler had no remaining choice but to begin the realization of his plans with [the attack on] on Poland. Poor Hitler was boxed in by those unreasonable Poles! Ilya Somin (@IlyaSomin) February 9, 2024 Putin mocks Tucker Carlson over his failed attempt to join CIA Friday 9 February 2024 18:00 , Gustaf Kilander Vladimir Putin mocked Tucker Carlson for trying and failing to join the CIA, during their more than two-hour-long, freewheeling interview released on Thursday. The remark came during a discussion of the 2014 political protests in Ukraine, which led to the ouster of its then-President Viktor Yanukovich and subsequently Russias annexation of Crimea and backing of so-called pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine. The Russian president went on to claim that his 2022 invasion of Ukraine was an attempt to put an end to the conflict that he falsely argued Ukraine had began back in 2014. Mr Putin said that the entire Ukrainian economy used to be based on trade with Russia. The cooperation ties between the enterprises were very close since the times of the Soviet Union. One enterprise there used to produce components to be assembled both in Russia and Ukraine and vice versa. There used to be very close ties, he said. A coup detat was committed, although, I shall not delve into details now as I find doing it inappropriate, the US told us, Calm Yanukovich down and we will calm the opposition. Let the situation unfold in the scenario of a political settlement. We said, Alright. Agreed. Lets do it this way. As the Americans requested us, Yanukovich did use neither the Armed Forces, nor the police, yet the armed opposition committed a coup in Kiev. What is that supposed to mean? Who do you think you are?, I wanted to ask the then-US leadership, he said. With the backing of whom? Mr Carlson asked. With the backing of CIA, of course. At that point, Mr Putin jabbed at the right-wing media figure for his own past efforts applying to work for the CIA. The organisation you wanted to join back in the day, as I understand, he said. Maybe we should thank God they didnt let you in. Although, it is a serious organisation. I understand. My former vis-a-vis, in the sense that I served in the First Main Directorate Soviet Unions intelligence service. They have always been our opponents. A job is a job. Government warned UK could become back door to Russian threats as foreign companies snap up British firms Friday 9 February 2024 17:30 , Kate Devlin The government has been warned the UK risks becoming a back door to cyber and other national security threats as foreign companies snap up British firms. Checks are not keeping pace with growing threats from countries like Russia, a powerful group of MPs says. They call for ministers to be notified of proposed investments which would affect media freedom, access to the sensitive data of individual, cybersecurity and critical supply chains. MPs have attacked the proposed UAE-backed takeover of the Telegraph newspaper group, expressing concerns about foreign state ownership and warning that it is impossible to separate sheikh and state. Liam Byrne, the chair of the Commons Business and Trade sub-committee, said it was vital that we do not let our country become a back door through which our adversaries acquire capabilities that imperil the collective security of either us or our NATO Allies. The report is published as Rishi Sunak branded clearly ridiculous Russian President Vladimir Putins claim that his invasion of Ukraine was a result of Nato expansion. Ukraine's new army chief says his immediate goals are better troop rotation and high-tech weapons Friday 9 February 2024 17:00 , Samya Kullab, Alex Babenko, AP Ukraines new military chief said Friday his immediate goals are to improve the rotation of troops out of the front lines and harness the power of new technology in the fight against Russias invasion. Col. Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, who previously was the commander of Ukraines ground forces, spoke a day after President Volodymyr Zelenskyy put him in charge of the battlefield campaign against Russias invasion. New tasks are on the agenda, Syrskyi said on his Telegram channel. Though he provided little detail, his remarks appeared to align with Zelenskyys stated aim of bringing renewal to the armed forces in Thursdays shake-up and adopting a fresh approach to the fight. But the changes at the top wont solve some of Ukraines biggest problems: a shortage of manpower that has helped sap morale and may require a mass mobilization, and the inadequate supply of Western weapons to take on Russias might. The shake-up of the military top brass caused some apprehension on the streets of Kyiv, the countrys capital. Alisa Riazantseva, 35, said she had been generally satisfied with Syrskyis popular predecessor, Gen. Valerii Zaluzhnyi. We hope that our government has not made a big mistake by replacing him, she told The Associated Press. Oleksandr Azimov, 61, said there was some discontent, some dissatisfaction about the changes at the top. That may be a reference to previous criticism of Syrskyis strategy of holding on for nine months to the city of Bakhmut, which brought the wars longest and bloodiest battle and which cost Ukraine dearly in troop losses. But it served the purpose of sapping Russias forces. Syrskyi takes charge at an overall difficult time for Ukraines war effort. With the fighting about to enter its third year, Kyiv is largely dependent on support from Western countries where signs of war fatigue have emerged. That has left Ukraine on the defensive while Russia has placed its economy on a war footing and is building up its weapon stockpiles. Analysts detected no sign of a deeper malaise in Zelenskyys move, which had been rumored for weeks. Command changes are normal for a state fighting a war over several years, the Institute for the Study of War, a Washington think tank, said late Thursday. Asked about Zaluzhnyis exit and Syrskyis appointment, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Friday downplayed the moves. We dont think that these are the factors that could change the course of the special (military) operation, he said, using the Russian governments euphemism for the war. Russian President Vladimir Putin used an interview broadcast late Thursday with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson to urge Washington to recognize Moscows interests and persuade Ukraine to sit down for talks. Clearly ridiculous for Putin to blame West for Ukraine war, says Sunak Friday 9 February 2024 16:30 , Dominic McGrath Rishi Sunak has labelled clearly ridiculous claims by Vladimir Putin that the West and Nato are to blame to the war in Ukraine. In an interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, the Russian President repeated his claim that his invasion of Ukraine, which Kyiv and its allies described as an unprovoked act of aggression, was necessary to protect Russian speakers in Ukraine and prevent the country from posing a threat to Russia by joining Nato. Speaking to broadcasters in the South West, the Prime Minister said it was clearly ridiculous to blame the West for the war. Russia conducted an illegal, unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. Im proud that the UK has stood strongly with Ukraine from the beginning. I was there earlier this year, the first foreign leader to visit. It was my first visit of the year to announce significant military support to Ukraine and also a broader security relationship with them. We cant let this type of behaviour go unchecked. It impacts all of our security. Weve already seen the impact it had on everyones energy bills. And thats why were working closely, not just with the US but with allies around the world, to give Ukraine the support it needs for as long as it takes to repel the Russian invasion. PHOTOS: Behind the scenes from Putin interview Friday 9 February 2024 16:00 , Gustaf Kilander In this pool photograph distributed by Russian state agency Sputnik, Russia's President Vladimir Putin gives an interview to US talk show host Tucker Carlson at the Kremlin in Moscow on February 6, 2024 (POOL/AFP via Getty Images) In this pool photograph distributed by Russian state agency Sputnik, Russia's President Vladimir Putin gives an interview to US talk show host Tucker Carlson at the Kremlin in Moscow on February 6, 2024 (POOL/AFP via Getty Images) In this pool photograph distributed by Russian state agency Sputnik, Russia's President Vladimir Putin gives an interview to US talk show host Tucker Carlson at the Kremlin in Moscow on February 6, 2024 (POOL/AFP via Getty Images) In this pool photograph distributed by Russian state agency Sputnik, Russia's President Vladimir Putin gives an interview to US talk show host Tucker Carlson at the Kremlin in Moscow on February 6, 2024 (POOL/AFP via Getty Images) Former US ambassador to Russia weighs in on boring Putin interview Friday 9 February 2024 15:45 , Gustaf Kilander I havent watched the whole Putin interview yet (its boring). But the beginning is revealing about why Putin invaded. He was not reacting to some imminent NATO expansion but seeking to correct (in his view) things that occurred centuries before the creation of NATO. Michael McFaul (@McFaul) February 9, 2024 VIDEO: Putin tells US to 'stop supplying weapons' to Ukraine in Tucker Carlson interview Friday 9 February 2024 15:30 , Gustaf Kilander Former Ukrainian minister and MP says Putin is a psychopath who lives in an absolutely fictional world' Friday 9 February 2024 15:15 , Gustaf Kilander Thoughts on Putin's interview with Tucker Carlson: Carlson wanted the interview to be a political sensation and an information breakthrough. But it turned out to be mediocre and unimpressive. There was no sensation. The conversation was boring, stretched out, with https://t.co/YKygrJElYo pic.twitter.com/ShAgbvYse5 Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) February 9, 2024 PHOTOS: Tucker Carlson speaks to Vladimir Putin Friday 9 February 2024 15:00 , Gustaf Kilander In this pool photograph distributed by Russian state agency Sputnik, Russia's President Vladimir Putin gives an interview to US talk show host Tucker Carlson at the Kremlin in Moscow on February 6, 2024 (POOL/AFP via Getty Images) In this pool photograph distributed by Russian state agency Sputnik, US talk show host Tucker Carlson looks on during an interview with Russia's President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin in Moscow on February 6, 2024 (POOL/AFP via Getty Images) In this pool photograph distributed by Russian state agency Sputnik, US talk show host Tucker Carlson is seen before an interview with Russia's President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin in Moscow on February 6, 2024 (POOL/AFP via Getty Images) In this pool photograph distributed by Russian state agency Sputnik, Russia's President Vladimir Putin gives an interview to US talk show host Tucker Carlson at the Kremlin in Moscow on February 6, 2024 (POOL/AFP via Getty Images) Watch: Putin claims Boris Johnson talked Ukraine out of peace deal Friday 9 February 2024 14:30 , Joe Middleton Putin repeats nonsense claim Boris Johnson scuppered efforts to end Ukraine invasion Friday 9 February 2024 14:00 , Mike Bedigan Vladimir Putin has repeaeted a claim that Boris Johnson tanked negotiations for a peace settlement between Russia and Ukraine, which the former UK prime minister has previously labelled as nonsense. During a highly anticipated sit-down interview with former Fox News commentator Tucker Carlson, the Russian president said, via a translator, that a huge document had been prepared and approved by the head of the Ukranian delegation. He put his signature and then he himself said, we were ready to sign it and the war would have been over long ago. However, Prime Minister Johnson came talk to us out of it, and weve missed that chance. In an interview with The Times in January, Mr Johnson strongly denied the claims, describing them as total nonsense and Russian propaganda. Putin calls Ukraine satellite state of US Friday 9 February 2024 13:30 , Gustaf Kilander Putin blamed the West for the failed peace talks with Ukraine. We did not refuse to talk. Were willing to negotiate, he claimed. It is the western side. And Ukraine is obviously a satellite state of the US. It is evident. So I just want to make sure Im not misunderstanding what youre saying. I dont think that I am. I think youre saying you want a negotiated settlement to whats happening in Ukraine? Carlson asked. Right, Putin said. And we made it where he prepared the huge document in Istanbul that was intialled by the head of the Ukrainian delegation to fix his signature to some of the provisions. Not so all of it. He put his signature and then he himself said we were ready to sign it and the word would have been over long ago. a month ago. However, Prime Minister [Boris] Johnson came to talk us out of it and weve missed a chance. Reaction: Tucker didnt ask a single hard question' Friday 9 February 2024 13:15 , Joe Middleton The BBCs John Simpson offered a withering put down of Tucker Carlsons interview with Vladimir Putin. The highly regarded correspondent and TV presenter posted on X, formerly Twitter, that the former Fox News host didnt ask the Russian president a single hard question. He added that he allowed Mr Putin to drone on and that was why the Kremlin didnt allow someone serious to do the interview. Im glad #Putin finally let himself be interviewed by a Western journalist just sorry it was @TuckerCarlson, who didnt ask a single hard question and allowed him to drone on, unchallenged. Thats exactly why they didnt allow someone serious to do the interview, of course. John Simpson (@JohnSimpsonNews) February 9, 2024 VIDEO: Putin says it would be 'understandable' if Hungary annexed parts of Ukraine Friday 9 February 2024 13:00 , The Independent Tucker Carlson met Edward Snowden and Biden accuser Tara Reade in Moscow, report says Friday 9 February 2024 12:40 , Joe Middleton Tucker Carlson met with NSA leaker Edward Snowden while in Moscow, according to Semafor. The former whistleblower featured heavily in Russian media before seeking more privacy in his family life. Mr Snowden was initially granted asylum in Russia in 2013 after leaking a trove of classified National Security Agency (NSA) documents, and then was granted permanent resident status in Russia in 2020. That year, he announced his decision to seek duel citizenship, stating in a tweet that after years of separation from our parents, my wife and I have no desire to be separated from our son. Gustaf Kilander reports. Tucker Carlson met Edward Snowden and Biden accuser Tara Reade in Moscow, report says Putin cant live without the West, Russian opposition leader says Friday 9 February 2024 12:00 , Gustaf Kilander Mikhail Khodorkovsky, an exiled Russian businessman, oligarch, and opposition leader, wrote in a thread on X that everything Putin does has one goal to keep him in power for as long as possible. Thats why he assassinates journalists, thats why he invaded Ukraine and its also why he let Tucker Carlson interview him. Putin jailed Khodorkovsky in 2003 on trumped-up charges and confiscated his oil company. As much as Putin and his propagandists might paint the West as public enemy number one in Russia, the truth is, he craves western attention and approval. Why? Because it gives him legitimacy at home, Mr Khodorkovsky wrote on X on Thursday night. Russians might be taught to despise the West, but at the same time, a lot of them still view Europe and the US as cultural role models. They watch western films, they buy western goods, they follow western sports teams. So, when a prominent westerner says something complimentary about Putin, this holds a lot of weight among the Russian public, and it contributes to Putins approval ratings. And Putin knows it, he added. Watch: Putin calls Ukraine an artificial state shaped at Stalins will Friday 9 February 2024 11:40 , Joe Middleton Putin equates jailed US journalist to FSB professional killer, reporter says Friday 9 February 2024 11:00 , Gustaf Kilander This is both mind-blowing in it's obscenity and Freudian. Putin has been offering the US to swap Evan for the killer Krasikov for months. Not realizing Germany is a sovereign country that won't just take instructions from the US. Christo Grozev (@christogrozev) February 9, 2024 Who is Vadim Krasikov? The man whose exchange could lead to Evan Gershkovich release Friday 9 February 2024 10:20 , Namita Singh President Vladimir Putin said that Russia stands ready to negotiate a potential prisoner exchange that would free Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who was detained last March on espionage charges he denies, and hinted that Moscow wants the release of its agent imprisoned in Germany. Asked by Tucker Carlson whether Russia would release Gershkovich, Mr Putin said Moscow is open to talks but repeated that the reporter was charged with espionage. There is no taboo on settling this issue, Mr Putin said. We are ready to solve it but there are certain conditions that are being discussed between special services. I believe an agreement can be reached. He pointed to a man imprisoned in a US-allied country for liquidating a bandit who killed Russian soldiers during the fighting in the Caucasus: He put our soldiers taken prisoners on a road and then drove a car over their heads. There was a patriot who liquidated him in one of the European capitals. Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, right, is escorted from the Lefortovsky court in Moscow, Russia (AP) Mr Putin didnt mention names, but he appeared to refer to Vadim Krasikov, a Russian serving a life sentence in Germany after being convicted of the 2019 brazen daylight killing of Zelimkhan Tornike Khangoshvili, a 40-year-old Georgian citizen of Chechen ethnicity. German judges who convicted Krasikov said he had acted on the orders of Russian federal authorities, who provided him with a false identity, a fake passport and the resources to carry out the hit. The Wall Street Journal reaffirmed in a statement that Gershkovich is a journalist, and journalism is not a crime, adding that any portrayal to the contrary is total fiction. Were encouraged to see Russias desire for a deal that brings Evan home, and we hope this will lead to his rapid release and return to his family and our newsroom, it said. This is how democracies die, says former Belgium prime minister Friday 9 February 2024 10:07 , Namita Singh Tucker Carlsons interview is the best thing that ever happened to Vladimir Putin, says Belgiums former prime minister Guy Verhofstadt, as he lashed out at the former Fox News presenter. America tomorrow will suffer from having him spreading lies unchallenged and unfiltered. This is how democracies die. Carlson interview is the best thing that ever happened to Putin. America tomorrow will suffer from having him spreading lies unchallenged and unfiltered. This is how democracies die... pic.twitter.com/nbrlkZUbnV Guy Verhofstadt (@guyverhofstadt) February 9, 2024 Putin claims Ukraine peace deal was blocked by Boris Johnson Friday 9 February 2024 10:00 , Gustaf Kilander Tucker: "I think you're saying you want a negotiated settlement to what's happening in Ukraine." Putin: "Right ... We were ready to sign it and the war would have been over long ago, 18 months ago..." pic.twitter.com/HGhT81tbtR Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) February 8, 2024 Putin urges US to push Ukraine to talks Friday 9 February 2024 09:40 , Namita Singh Russian president Vladimir Putin used an interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson to urge Washington to recognise Moscows interests and persuade Ukraine to sit down for talks. Most of the interview focused on Ukraine, where the war is nearing the two-year mark. Mr Putin repeated his claim that his invasion of Ukraine, which Kyiv and its allies described as an unprovoked act of aggression, was necessary to protect Russian speakers in Ukraine and prevent the country from posing a threat to Russia by joining Nato. Mr Putin pointed at Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskys refusal to conduct talks with the Kremlin. He argued that its up to Washington to stop supplying Ukraine with weapons and convince Kyiv, which he called a US satellite, to sit down for negotiations. We have never refused negotiations, Mr Putin said. You should tell the current Ukrainian leadership to stop and come to a negotiating table. Putins forces have seized large swathes of land from Ukraine since the invasion of February 2022, as well as annexing the entire Crimean peninsula earlier in 2014. Kyiv has said it will not engage in any peace talks that involve giving up parts of its sovereign territory. In video: Putin says it would be 'understandable' if Hungary annexed parts of Ukraine Friday 9 February 2024 09:20 , Namita Singh Putin claims jailed US journalist Evan Gershkovich was caught red-handed receiving secrets Friday 9 February 2024 09:00 , John Bowden Russian President Vladimir Putin denied that jailed American journalist Evan Gershkovich was innocent of the espionage charges for which he remains imprisoned during a rare interview with right-wing commentator Tucker Carlson. In the conversation, which was published in full on Thursday, Mr Putin insisted that Mr Gershkovich had obtained classified information from one of his sources in a clandestine manner, and had been caught red-handed upon receiving the information. The Wall Street Journal and US news outlets have strongly denied any wrongdoing by Mr Gershkovich and protested that his activities fell strictly under the umbrella of legitimate journalism. He was receiving classified confidential information, and he was doing it covertly, the Russian president told Carlson. Mr Putin added: He was caught red-handed when he was receiving this information. Putin accuses CIA of blowing up Nord Stream Friday 9 February 2024 08:40 , Namita Singh When Tucker Carlson asked Russian president Vladimir Putin who he thought blew up the Nord Stream oil pipeline, which runs under the sea between Russia and Germany, the two men quickly agreed that it was the CIA or some other Nato agency. The CIA has no alibi, he said. In this picture provided by Swedish Coast Guard, a leak from Nord Stream 2 is seen, on 28 September 2022 (AP) The attack in September 2022, which happened as Europe attempted to wean itself off Russian energy sources following the Kremlins full-scale invasion of Ukraine, contributed to tensions that followed the start of the war. The source of the sabotage has been a major international mystery. In video: Putin repeatedly claims Evan Gershkovich received classified information Friday 9 February 2024 08:20 , Namita Singh Putin repeatedly claims Evan Gershkovich received classified information Putin claims Ukraine is an artificial state that was shaped at Stalins will Friday 9 February 2024 08:00 , Gustaf Kilander Interrupting Putins history monologue, Carlson asked: You obviously have encyclopedic knowledge of this region, but why didnt you make this case for the first 22 years as president that Ukraine wasnt a real country? The Soviet Union was given a great deal of territory that had never belonged to including the Black Sea region, received Bucha at some point, when Russia received them as an outcome of the Russo-Turkish wars, they were called New Russia ... but that does not matter. What matters is that Lenin the founder of the Soviet state ... established Ukraine that way, Putin said. For decades the Ukrainian Soviet Republic developed as part of the USSR. And for unknown reasons, again, the Bolsheviks were engaged in Ukrainian causation. It was not merely because the Soviet leadership was composed to a great extent of those originating from Ukraine. Rather, it was explained by the general policy of indigenisation pursued by the Soviet Union, the Russian leader added. Same things were done in other Soviet republics. This involves promoting national languages and national cultures, which is not a bad in principle, he said. That is how the Soviet Ukraine was created. After World War Two Ukraine received in addition to the lands that had belonged to Poland before the war, both of the lands that had previously belonged to Hungary and Romania So Romania and Hungary had some of their lands taken away and given to the Soviet Ukraine, and they still remain part of Ukrainian. So in this sense, we have every reason to affirm that Ukraine is an artificial state that was shaped at Stalins will, Putin claimed. In November 2022, Olesya Khromeychuk, a historian and the director of the Ukrainian Institute London, wrote in The New York Times: This historical experience of statelessness and struggle, repressive external rule and hard-won independence has shaped Ukraine into the nation we see today: opposed to imperialism, united in the face of the enemy and determined to protect its freedom. For the people of Ukraine, freedom is not some lofty ideal. It is imperative for survival. In May 2022, US historian Stephen Schlesinger wrote in PassBlue: Seven years before his death, in preparation for the Soviet Union joining the newly formed United Nations, Stalin advanced the proposition that Ukraine was an independent state. His pronouncement came about during the conference that established the UN in San Francisco in the spring of 1945. There, Stalin demanded that Ukraine be admitted to the body as a separate, distinct nation with all the rights and privileges that come with full membership, including its own ambassador and participation as a member state in all UN sessions, the historian added. Stalins stance initially grew out of the Dumbarton Oaks conclave, which was held in Washington a year earlier, where the four sponsoring nations of the UN Britain, the Soviet Union, the United States and China met to draft the UN Charter. Humanity needs to think about advances in genetics and AI: Putin Friday 9 February 2024 07:43 , Namita Singh Vladimir Putin said the world was changing faster than during the collapse of the Roman Empire, mentioning advances in genetic research and artificial intelligence. He said geneticists could create a superman and quipped that Elon Musk had put a chip in a human brain. But he said that humanity needed to think about what to do about the advances in genetics and artificial intelligence and suggested the nuclear arms control treaties of the Cold War could be a guide. When there arises an understanding that the boundless and uncontrolled development of artificial intelligence or genetics or some other modern trends, cannot be stopped, that these researches will still exist just as it was impossible to hide gunpowder from humanity... when humanity feels a threat to itself, to humanity as a whole, then, it seems to me, there will come a period to negotiate at the inter-state level on how we will regulate this, Mr Putin said. What did Putin say about war with Ukraine? Friday 9 February 2024 07:40 , Namita Singh After a half-hour lecture on the history of Russia and Ukraine dating back to dawn of Slavic history in 862, Vladimir Putin told Tucker Carlson that Russia and Ukraine almost agreed to a peace deal in Istanbul shortly after the full-scale war began in 2022 but that it was turned down by Ukraine at the behest of the West, specifically Boris Johnson, then British prime minister. He suggested the West and Ukraine think about peace. In this pool photograph distributed by Russian state agency Sputnik, Russias president Vladimir Putin chairs a meeting with the Presidential Council for Science and Education via video link in Moscow on 8 February 2024 (AFP via Getty Images) Wouldnt it be better to come to an agreement with Russia? To agree, understanding the situation that is today, understanding that Russia will fight for its interests to the end, and, understanding this, actually return to common sense, start respecting our country, its interests and look for some solutions? And Russia? We are ready for this dialogue. Mr Putin questioned why the United States needed to spend so much on arming Ukraine for a war he cast in some ways similar to a civil war. Does the United States need this? Why? It is thousands of kilometres away from its territory! Dont you have anything else to do? Mr Putin said. He said there were mercenaries from the United States, Poland and Georgia fighting for Ukraine. In video: Putin repeats de-Nazification claim, meanders around Carlson questions Friday 9 February 2024 07:20 , Namita Singh EU denies claim Tucker Carlson faces sanction over Putin interview Friday 9 February 2024 07:05 , Namita Singh The European Union has rejected a claim that Tucker Carlson is facing sanctions because of his interview with Vladimir Putin. A spokesperson yesterday said that there are currently no EU talks on sanctions for the former Fox News host in response to rumours shared by X owner Elon Musk, among others. Peter Stano, a spokesperson for EU foreign policy boss Josep Borrell, told the media on Thursday that Its not up to us to try to pre-empt or speculate whether someone will be proposed by a member state or group of member states to be put on the sanctions list. Report: EU denies claim Tucker Carlson faces sanctions over Putin interview Russian opposition leader on why Kremlin-controlled media loves Carlson Friday 9 February 2024 07:00 , Gustaf Kilander Upon his departure from Fox, Putins international propaganda network RT has offered Tucker Carlson a job. Why do the Kremlin-controlled media love Carlson more than any other Western journalist? Here's the truth: pic.twitter.com/ROcskp7ZXN Mikhail Khodorkovsky (@khodorkovsky_en) February 7, 2024 This is meant to legitimize the regimes lies in the eyes of the domestic audience, so the higher the stooges profile, the better. Its the reason why Donald Trump became almost the main character of Russian TV during his 2016 campaign, for example Mikhail Khodorkovsky (@khodorkovsky_en) February 7, 2024 This came after Carlson spent part of his Fox News show defending Putins invasion and blaming the US for inciting the conflict. When the order was given, Carlson became a regular star of Russian propaganda in all its forms Mikhail Khodorkovsky (@khodorkovsky_en) February 7, 2024 Here he is, accusing Zelensky of planning a nuclear attack on Russia, as quoted by Tsargrad Media Group, owned by wealthy ultranationalist Konstantin Malofeev, sanctioned since 2014 for financing separatists in east Ukraine https://t.co/MLntw7bi0h Mikhail Khodorkovsky (@khodorkovsky_en) February 7, 2024 As for TV, Carlson became so popular among Russian channels that one of his rants, in which he blamed US saboteurs for the Nord Stream pipeline explosion, was shown at least 12 times in one day across different stations https://t.co/4IT113Ojqt Mikhail Khodorkovsky (@khodorkovsky_en) February 7, 2024 It doesnt really matter, whether Carlson is in this willingly or not. At this historic time, this self-declared American patriot has ended up in the same camp as power-mad retired KGB officers and notorious propagandists like Dmitri Kiselyov, who once threatened Russia would Mikhail Khodorkovsky (@khodorkovsky_en) February 7, 2024 Putin says if US stops giving Ukraine weapons the war will be over in weeks Friday 9 February 2024 06:23 , Namita Singh Russian president Vladimir Putin told former Fox News host Tucker Carlson that if the US stopped sending weapons to Ukraine, the war would be over in weeks. Asked why he doesnt call President Joe Biden and work out a solution in Ukraine, Putin asked: Whats there to work out? Stop supplying weapons and it will be over within weeks, Mr Putin added. More here: Putin says if US stops giving Ukraine weapons the war will be over in weeks Putin repeats nonsense claim Boris Johnson scuppered efforts to end Ukraine invasion Friday 9 February 2024 06:22 , Namita Singh Vladimir Putin has repeated a claim that Boris Johnson scuppered negotiations for a peace settlement between Russia and Ukraine, which the former UK prime minister has previously labelled nonsense. During a highly anticipated sit-down interview with former Fox News commentator Tucker Carlson, the Russian president said, via a translator, that a huge document had been prepared and approved by the head of the Ukranian delegation, before Mr Johnson had stepped in and dissuaded Ukraines president Volodymyr Zelensky. He put his signature and then he himself said, we were ready to sign it and the war would have been over long ago. However, Prime Minister Johnson came talk to us out of it, and weve missed that chance. Mike Bedigan report: Putin repeats nonsense claim Boris Johnson sank efforts to end Ukraine invasion Tucker Carlson fawns over beautiful Moscow as he jokes about betraying US Friday 9 February 2024 06:03 , Namita Singh Tucker Carlson joked about feeling like hes betraying the US as he was mobbed by journalists in Moscow during his trip to interview Russian President Vladimir Putin. As he interacted with members of the Russian media in what appeared to be a Moscow parking garage this week, Mr Carlson said he liked the city, adding: I really do like it, Im not just saying that. He continued: Why do I feel guilty, like Im betraying my country for saying that, Im not, I love America. This is a really nice city. And I dont care. Its true. So thank you. Report: Tucker Carlson fawns over beautiful Moscow as he jokes about betraying US Putin claims peace talks were close to finalized Friday 9 February 2024 06:00 , Gustaf Kilander Putin claimed in the interview with Carlson that peace talks reached a very high stage of coordination of positions in a complex process. But still, they were almost finalized. But after we withdrew our troops from Kyiv, as I have already said, the other side threw away all these agreements and obeyed the instructions of Western countries, European countries and the United States to fight Russia to the bitter end, he added. Tucker Carlsons strange interview with Vladimir Putin Friday 9 February 2024 05:35 , Namita Singh Around eight minutes into his mammoth two-hour interview with Vladimir Putin, Tucker Carlson was forced to interrupt. I beg your pardon. Can you tell us what period...? Im losing track of where in history we are, said the former Fox News host, who had been listening to Putins words with an expression of deepening vexation. It was in the 13th century, said the Russian president matter-of-factly. The exchange was only one of many odd moments in Carlsons much-trailed meeting with the ex-KGB strongman, who has dominated his countrys politics for more than two decades and is now virtually a dictator. Streamed for free on Carlsons website on Thursday evening, it was Putins first interview with a Western journalist since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. Here are the key points of their strange, freewheeling, and occasionally comical encounter. Inside Tucker Carlson's strange interview with Vladimir Putin Tucker Carlson met Edward Snowden and Biden accuser Tara Reade in Moscow, report says Friday 9 February 2024 05:30 , Gustaf.Kilander Tucker Carlson met with NSA leaker Edward Snowden while in Moscow, according to Semafor. The former whistleblower featured heavily in Russian media before seeking more privacy in his family life. Carlson reportedly met Snowden for hours, but the meeting was not for his video programme, the outlet noted. But Carlson did record an interview with Tara Reade, a former Senate aide who later accused President Joe Biden of sexual assault, which he has denied. The former aide moved to Russia after sharing her increasingly supportive views of Russian policies. The Russian UN delegation called on her to speak in 2022 regarding weapons diversion, and she had Russias Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN appear on her YouTube channel. Carlson did appear sceptical of her allegations against Biden in 2020. The former Fox News host was heavily criticised for seeking an interview with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which was his main purpose for travelling to Moscow. Journalists lash out at Carlson for teaching good journalism Friday 9 February 2024 05:21 , Namita Singh Several journalists, including from Russia, have also called out Tucker Carlson for patting himself on the back for landing an interview with Vladimir Putin. Unbelievable! I am like hundreds of Russian journalists who have had to go into exile to keep reporting about the Kremlins war against Ukraine, Russian journalist Yevgenia Albats wrote. The alternative was to go to jail. And now this SoB is teaching us about good journalism, shooting from the $1,000 Ritz suite in Moscow. Unbelievable! I am like hundreds of Russian journalists who have had to go into exile to keep reporting about the Kremlin's war against Ukraine. The alternative was to go to jail. And now this SoB is teaching us about good journalism, shooting from the $1000 Ritz suite in Moscow https://t.co/9R3lqy5O6v albats (@albats) February 6, 2024 He says hes interviewing Putin because freedom of speech is Americans birthright, wrote BBC Eastern Europe Correspondent Sarah Rainsford, who was chucked out of Russia in 2021 after being declared a threat to national security. I guess he knows that Putin made it a crime to tell the truth about Russias war on Ukraine? That independent Russian journalists have fled to avoid prison? He says hes interviewing Putin because freedom of speech is Americans birthright I guess he knows that Putin made it a crime to tell the truth about Russias war on Ukraine? That independent Russian journalists have fled to avoid prison? And @evangershkovich is behind bars pic.twitter.com/Bl08FVMX7L Sarah Rainsford (@sarahrainsford) February 6, 2024 Carlson mocked for claiming Americans have no idea why Putin invaded Ukraine Friday 9 February 2024 05:14 , Namita Singh Several journalists took to social media to mock Tucker Carlson for claiming that most Americans have no idea why Putin invaded Ukraine or what his goals are now. Theyve never heard his voice. Thats wrong, he said. Journalists were quick to point out that his 24 February invasion speech from 2022 was widely covered by major media outlets.Poor, poor Vladimir Putin, mocked the Wall Street Journals chief foreign-affairs correspondent Yaroslav Trofimov, wrote on X. Until now, nobody in the West has had the chance to hear him explain all the excellent reasons for why he had to invade Ukraine. Not in the speech that was broadcast live on every global network the morning of the invasion, and not in countless others, Trofimov added. We never agreed to NATOs expansion, Putin complains Friday 9 February 2024 05:00 , Gustaf Kilander Putin said, We agreed with the fact that after the collapse of the Soviet Union, our borders should be along the borders of former Union republics. We agreed to that. We never agreed to NATOs expansion. And moreover, we never agreed that Ukraine would be in NATO ... we did not agree to NATO bases ... without any discussion with us for decades we kept asking you dont do this, dont do that, he added. He is a propagandist: Carlsons interview draws furious reaction Friday 9 February 2024 04:45 , Namita Singh Americal- Polish journalist, Anne Applebaum took to social media to lash out at Tucker Carlson for his interview with Vladimir Putin. Many journalists have interviewed Putin, who also makes frequent, widely covered speeches. Carlsons interview is different because he is not a journalist, hes a propagandist, with a history of helping autocrats conceal corruption, she wrote on X. BBC tried repeatedly to interview Putin. I wonder why he says no to them, yes to Carlson? Many journalists have interviewed Putin, who also makes frequent, widely covered speeches. Carlson's interview is different because he is not a journalist, he's a propagandist, with a history of helping autocrats conceal corruption. https://t.co/5KLTtWV2CE Anne Applebaum (@anneapplebaum) February 6, 2024 Carlson before the interview, falsely claimed not a single Western journalist has bothered to interview Mr Putin since 2022. Countless reporters from Western countries, including the BBCs Russia Editor Steve Rosenberg, have sent the Kremlin repeated interview requests, wrote the British broadcaster in an article. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov acknowledged this and told the BBC: Mr Carlson is not correct, and he couldnt have known that. We receive a lot of requests for interviews with the president. Vladimir Putin cannot recall when he last spoke to Biden Friday 9 February 2024 04:32 , Namita Singh Russian president Vladimir Putin could not remember the last time he spoke with his US counterpart Joe Biden while claiming he had a personal relationship with his predecessor Donald Trump. I cannot remember when I talked to him, he said of Biden, adding that the two last spoke before the February 2022 invasion of Ukraine. But why should I remember everything? I have a lot of my own things to do. We have domestic political affairs. Putin: West is more afraid of a strong China ... than it fears a strong Russia' Friday 9 February 2024 04:30 , Gustaf Kilander Putin claimed that the West is more afraid of a strong China ... than it fears a strong Russia because Russia has 150 million people and China has 1.5 billion population and its economy is growing by leaps and bounds or 5 per cent a year. It used to be even more but thats enough for China. Chinas potential is enormous. It is the biggest economy in the world today in terms of purchasing power parity and the size of the economy. It has already overtaken the United States quite a long time ago, and it is growing at a rapid clip, Putin said. Late last month, Bloomberg reported: The US has pulled further ahead of China in the race for worlds biggest economy, thanks in part to a vibrant American consumer. US gross domestic product rose 6.3% in nominal terms that is, unadjusted for inflation last year, outpacing Chinas 4.6% gain. Lets not talk about who is afraid of whom ... lets get into the fact that after 1991 when Russia expected that it would be welcomed into the brotherly family of civilized nations nothing like this happened ... the promise was that NATO would not expand eastward, but it happened five times. There were five waves of expansion. We tolerated it, we were trying to persuade them we were saying, Please dont we are as bourgeois now as you are. We are a market economy and theres no Communist Party power, lets negotiate. Russia will fight for its interests to the end Putin Friday 9 February 2024 04:18 , Namita Singh Russian president Vladimir Putin said that Russia will fight for its interests to the end but has no interest in expanding its war in Ukraine to other countries such as Poland and Latvia. He said Western leaders had come to realise it was impossible inflict a strategic defeat on Russia and were wondering what to do next. We are ready for this dialogue, he said. The Russian leader said the US had pressing domestic issues to worry about. Wouldnt it be better to negotiate with Russia? Make an agreement. Already understanding the situation that is developing today, realizing that Russia will fight for its interests to the end, he said. Washington, which has sent Ukraine more than $110bn in aid since Russia invaded in February 2022, has made clear it has no interest in talking on Mr Putins terms. Putin claims Ukraine is not a real country Friday 9 February 2024 04:01 , Namita Singh Vladimir Putin took his chance to lay out his distorted version of history, claiming that Ukraine is not a real country. After World War II, Ukraine received in addition to the lands that had belonged to Poland before the war, both of the lands that had previously belonged to Hungary and Romania so Romania and Hungary had some of their lands taken away and given to the Soviet Ukraine, and they still remain part of Ukraine, he claimed. So in this sense, we have every reason to affirm that Ukraine is an artificial state that was shaped at Stalins will, Mr Putin argued. Tucker Carlsons interview part of Kremlins effort to get Western approval Friday 9 February 2024 04:01 , Namita Singh Exiled Russian businessman and opposition leader Mikhail Khodorkovsky, a former oligarch who lives in London following his 2003 jailing in Russia after falling out with Vladimir Putin, noted on X that Tucker Carlson is part of the Kremlins effort to get Western approval. It needs Western approval. This is why, for example, Russian propagandists have taken to writing pro-Putin comments under articles on Western news sites under assumed European and American names, then reprinting them as Western opinions, he wrote. This is where Tucker Carlson comes in. Hes been complimentary of Putin for years, even as the dictator became persona non grata among the broader Western public. So when he visited Moscow, he got the superstar treatment. His visit has received more media coverage than any visiting world leader or celebrity in years. His every move was portrayed as a matter of national importance all because he satisfies the regimes need for approval from the West, the dissident wrote regarding Carlsons Moscow trip. You probably think Putin hates the West, right? Well perhaps. But at the same time, he cant live without it. Why else would he roll out the red carpet for an American TV host? 1/12 pic.twitter.com/DkujSv0HbK Mikhail Khodorkovsky (@khodorkovsky_en) February 9, 2024 Carlson says Putin believes that Russia has a historic claim to parts of western Ukraine' Friday 9 February 2024 04:00 , Gustaf Kilander Introducing his interview with Putin, Carlson said that at the beginning, we asked the most obvious question, which is why did you do this because you feel a threat, an imminent physical threat. And thats your justification And the answer we got shocked us. Putin went on for a very long time, probably half an hour about the history of Russia going back to the eighth century. And honestly, we thought this was a filibustering technique and found it annoying and interrupted him several times and he responded he was annoyed by the interruption, Carlson added. But we concluded in the end for what its worth, that it was not a filibustering technique, there was no time limit on the interview, we ended it after more than two hours. Instead, what youre about to see seem to us sincere whether you agree with it or not. Vladimir Putin believes that Russia has a historic claim to parts of western Ukraine, he said. So our opinion would be to view it in that light as a sincere expression of what he thinks, Carlson added. Carlson 'far from being first Western journalist to have aligned with enemy Friday 9 February 2024 03:42 , Namita Singh Tucker Carlsons interview with Vladimir Putin has drawn sharp reactions and criticism from American journalists. Tucker Carlson is far from being the first Western journalist to have aligned himself with the enemy, Jamie Dettmer wrote for Politico. Theres a long tradition of the likes of Hitler and Stalin finding pliable Brits and Americans to do their propaganda for them. Carlson interviews Biden accuser Tara Reade Friday 9 February 2024 03:36 , Namita Singh Tucker Carlson recorded an interview with Tara Reade, a former Senate aide who later accused President Joe Biden of sexual assault, which he has denied, claims a report published in Semafor. The former aide moved to Russia after sharing her increasingly supportive views of Russian policies. The Russian UN delegation called on her to speak in 2022 regarding weapons diversion, and she had Russias Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN appear on her YouTube channel. Carlson did appear sceptical of her allegations against Biden in 2020. Why did Putin agree to interview with Carlson? Friday 9 February 2024 03:31 , Namita Singh The Kremlin said Vladimir Putin agreed to an interview with Tucker Carlson because the approach of the former Fox News host differed from the one-sided reporting of the Ukraine conflict by many Western news outlets. Carlson is considered to have close connections to Donald Trump, who is expected to be the Republican Party candidate in the November US presidential election. Complaining about the billions of dollars in aid sent to Kyiv so far, Mr Trump has called for de-escalation of the war in Ukraine, in which the Joe Biden administration has strongly backed the Volodymyr Zelensky government. For his part, Carlson has said much Western media coverage of the war is biased in Kyivs favour. Tucker Carlson speaks during RiskOn360! GlobalSuccess Conference at Ahern Hotel and Convention Center on 20 November 2023 in Las Vegas (Getty Images) Carlsons past comments about the Ukraine war have often mirrored the justifications put out by the Kremlin, such as saying Russia does not want a hostile government next door, and he has called Zelensky a dictator. Clips of his shows have repeatedly been featured in Russian propaganda shows on state TV. In 2019, Carlson famously said US liberals hate America more than Putin does. Putin, for all his faults, does not hate America as much as many of these people (American liberals) do. They really dislike our country, he said. We should probably take the side of Russia if we have to choose between Russia and Ukraine. VIDEO: Putin calls Ukraine an artificial state shaped at Stalins will Friday 9 February 2024 03:30 , Gustaf Kilander Carlson met Snowden in Moscow, report says Friday 9 February 2024 03:29 , Namita Singh Tucker Carlson met with NSA leaker Edward Snowden while in Moscow, according to Semafor. The former whistleblower featured heavily in Russian media before seeking more privacy in his family life. Mr Snowden was initially granted asylum in Russia in 2013 after leaking a trove of classified National Security Agency (NSA) documents, and then was granted permanent resident status in Russia in 2020. That year, he announced his decision to seek duel citizenship, stating in a tweet that after years of separation from our parents, my wife and I have no desire to be separated from our son. Carlson reportedly met Snowden for hours, but the meeting was not for his video programme, the outlet noted. My colleague Gustaf Kilander reports: Tucker Carlson met Edward Snowden and Biden accuser Tara Reade in Moscow, report says Russian leader says he believes it's possible to reach a deal to free US journalist Friday 9 February 2024 03:14 , Namita Singh Vladimir Putin said he believed it was possible to reach an agreement to free US journalist Evan Gershkovich of the Wall Street Journal. He has been detained in Russia for nearly a year and is awaiting trial on spying charges. He said Russian and American special services were discussing the Gershkovich case and had made some progress. This grab from a handout footage provided by the Lefortovsky Court on 26 January 2024 shows US journalist Evan Gershkovich, arrested on espionage charges (AFP via Getty) Mr Putin suggested that in return, Moscow wanted Germany to free Vadim Krasikov, who was convicted of the 2019 murder of a Chechen dissident in Berlin, although he did not mention Krasikov by name. There have been many successful examples of these talks crowned with success, Mr Putin said. Probably this is going to be crowned with success as well but we have to come to an agreement. Russia and the United States have agreed high-profile prisoner swaps in the past - most recently in December 2022 when Moscow traded Brittney Griner, a US basketball star convicted of a drugs offence in Russia - for Russian arms trafficker Viktor Bout. Russia has no interest in wider war, says Putin Friday 9 February 2024 03:01 , Namita Singh Russian president Vladimir Putin said that Russia will fight for its interests to the end but has no interest in expanding its war in Ukraine to other countries such as Poland and Latvia. Mr Putin, whose government also denied any plans to invade Ukraine up to the point it did so in February 2022, was speaking in an interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson. In this pool photograph distributed by Russian state agency Sputnik, Russias president Vladimir Putin chairs a meeting with the Presidential Council for Science and Education via video link in Moscow on 8 February 2024 (AFP via Getty Images) Mr Putin claimed Western leaders had come to realise it was impossible inflict a strategic defeat on Russia and were wondering what to do next. We are ready for this dialogue, he said. Asked if he could imagine a scenario in which he would send Russian troops to Poland, a Nato member, Mr Putin replied: Only in one case, if Poland attacks Russia. Why? Because we have no interest in Poland, Latvia or anywhere else. Why would we do that? We simply dont have any interest. Wall Street Journal issues new statement on jailed reporter after Putin interview Friday 9 February 2024 03:00 , Gustaf Kilander With Putin signaling to Tucker Carlson that he is open to a prisoner exchange that would free Evan Gershkovich, the @WSJ has issued this new statement: pic.twitter.com/mwqBYFHIvN Brian Stelter (@brianstelter) February 9, 2024 Putin says if US stops giving Ukraine weapons the war will be over in weeks Friday 9 February 2024 02:30 , Gustaf Kilander Russian President Vladimir Putin told former Fox News host Tucker Carlson that if the US stopped sending weapons to Ukraine, the war would be over in weeks. Asked why he doesnt call President Joe Biden and work out a solution in Ukraine, Putin asked: Whats there to work out? Stop supplying weapons and it will be over within weeks, Mr Putin added. Asked about a possible nuclear conflict, Mr Putin said: Thats what theyre talking about and theyre trying to intimidate their own people with these threats .... smart people understand that this is a fake, theyre trying to fuel the Russian threat. Mr Putin has used the prospect of nuclear in repeated attempts to intimidate Ukraine and the West. When Carlson asked if Mr Putin would attack Poland, he said: Only in one case, if Poland attacks Russia we have no interest in Poland, Latvia or anywhere. It is absolutely out of the question ... it goes against common sense to be involved in a global war ... and a global war will bring humanity to the brink of destruction, he added. White House warns against believing anything Putin says in Tucker Carlson interview Friday 9 February 2024 02:00 , Natalie Chinn Hours before Tucker Carlson dropped his interview with Russias Vladimir Putin, the White House delivered a message to viewers during the daily press briefing. Remember, youre listening to Vladimir Putin, National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said. You shouldnt take it face value, anything he has to say. Carlsons controversial interview is two hours long and was filmed in Moscow with the Russian president. Topics discussed include NATO, the war in Ukraine, US-Russia relations, Elon Musk, and AI. They also talked about the imprisoned American journalist Evan Gershkovich. Putin repeats nonsense claim Boris Johnson scuppered efforts to end Ukraine invasion Friday 9 February 2024 01:30 , Mike Bedigan Vladimir Putin has repeated a claim that Boris Johnson tanked negotiations for a peace settlement between Russia and Ukraine, which the former UK prime minister has previously labelled as nonsense. During a highly anticipated sit-down interview with former Fox News commentator Tucker Carlson, the Russian president said, via a translator, that a huge document had been prepared and approved by the head of the Ukranian delegation, before Mr Johnson had stepped in and dissuaded Ukraine. He put his signature and then he himself said, we were ready to sign it and the war would have been over long ago. However, Prime Minister Johnson came talk to us out of it, and weve missed that chance. In an interview with The Times in January, Mr Johnson strongly denied the claims, describing them as total nonsense and Russian propaganda. Mr Johnson asserted that, during a conversation with Ukrainian President Zelensky following the peace talks in Istanbul, he had expressed concerns about the nature of the potential agreement, but assured him of the UKs unwavering support for Ukraine. Putin calls invasion of Ukraine element of a civil war' Friday 9 February 2024 01:04 , Gustaf Kilander Putin said in the interview with Carlson that what is happening is to a certain extent, an element of a civil war. Everyone in the West thinks that the Russian people have been split by hostilities forever and officially now they will be reunited. The unity is still there, he added. Why are the Ukrainian authorities dismantling the Ukrainian Orthodox Church? Because it brings together not only the territory it brings together ourselves no one will be able to separate the soul. Friday 9 February 2024 00:59 , Gustaf Kilander Towards the end of the interview, Carlson asked Putin: Do you think it's too humiliating at this point for NATO to accept Russian control of what was two years ago Ukrainian territory? Let them think how to do it with dignity, Putin said. Up until now, there has been the uproar and screaming about inflicting a strategic defeat on Russia on the battlefield. Putin calls Ukraine satellite state of US Friday 9 February 2024 00:57 , Gustaf Kilander Putin blamed the West for the failed peace talks with Ukraine. We did not refuse to talk. Were willing to negotiate, he claimed. It is the western side. And Ukraine is obviously a satellite state of the US. It is evident. So I just want to make sure I'm not misunderstanding what you're saying. I don't think that I am. I think you're saying you want a negotiated settlement to what's happening in Ukraine? Carlson asked. Right, Putin said. And we made it where he prepared the huge document in Istanbul that was intialled by the head of the Ukrainian delegation to fix his signature to some of the provisions. Not so all of it. He put his signature and then he himself said we were ready to sign it and the word would have been over long ago. a month ago. However, Prime Minister [Boris] Johnson came to talk us out of it and we've missed a chance. VIDEO: Putin repeats de-Nazification claim, meanders around Carlson questions Friday 9 February 2024 00:50 , Gustaf Kilander Putin repeats nonsense claim Boris Johnson scuppered efforts to end Ukraine invasion Friday 9 February 2024 00:49 , Mike Bedigan Vladimir Putin has repeaeted a claim that Boris Johnson tanked negotiations for a peace settlement between Russia and Ukraine, which the former UK prime minister has previously labelled as nonsense. During a highly anticipated sit-down interview with former Fox News commentator Tucker Carlson, the Russian president said, via a translator, that a huge document had been prepared and approved by the head of the Ukranian delegation. He put his signature and then he himself said, we were ready to sign it and the war would have been over long ago. However, Prime Minister Johnson came talk to us out of it, and weve missed that chance. In an interview with The Times in January, Mr Johnson strongly denied the claims, describing them as total nonsense and Russian propaganda. Kremlin cannot stand not getting western approval, Russian opposition leader says Friday 9 February 2024 00:46 , Gustaf Kilander Exiled Russian oligarch and opposition leader Mikhail Khodorkovsky wrote on X on Friday night that when the war in Ukraine started, most of the West turned its back on Russia. Putin is no longer invited to meet with its leaders, nor do they visit him, and those western politicians who do sympathise with him tend to keep it quiet nowadays. The Kremlin cannot stand this. It needs western approval. This is why, for example, Russian propagandists have taken to writing pro-Putin comments under articles on western news sites under assumed European and American names, then reprinting them as western opinions, he added. Pundit on Russian TV says Putin interview is a slowly-burning fuse Friday 9 February 2024 00:40 , Gustaf Kilander Russian state TV expert said that Putin is hammering this nail straight into the Western mainstream media and described his interview with Carlson as a slowly-burning fuse, leading to the tinderbox known as American elections 2024. https://t.co/ymJjHE7IdV Julia Davis (@JuliaDavisNews) February 9, 2024 VIDEO: Putin says it would be 'understandable' if Hungary annexed parts of Ukraine Friday 9 February 2024 00:40 , Gustaf Kilander Putin cant live without the West, Russian opposition leader says Friday 9 February 2024 00:34 , Gustaf Kilander Mikhail Khodorkovsky, an exiled Russian businessman, oligarch, and opposition leader, wrote in a thread on X that everything Putin does has one goal to keep him in power for as long as possible. Thats why he assassinates journalists, thats why he invaded Ukraine and its also why he let Tucker Carlson interview him. Putin jailed Khodorkovsky in 2003 on trumped-up charges and confiscated his oil company. As much as Putin and his propagandists might paint the West as public enemy number one in Russia, the truth is, he craves western attention and approval. Why? Because it gives him legitimacy at home, Mr Khodorkovsky wrote on X on Thursday night. Russians might be taught to despise the West, but at the same time, a lot of them still view Europe and the US as cultural role models. They watch western films, they buy western goods, they follow western sports teams. So, when a prominent westerner says something complimentary about Putin, this holds a lot of weight among the Russian public, and it contributes to Putins approval ratings. And Putin knows it, he added. Tucker is sitting there in agony with all his questions' Friday 9 February 2024 00:29 , Gustaf Kilander Putin is just mocking Tucker at this point. Hes tried to interrupt this 30 minute speech 3 times, Putin let him know he better not interrupt again, and Tucker is sitting there in agony with all his questions and he has to listen to this old man ramble worse than Trump. pic.twitter.com/IGc4L0jw2v Ron Filipkowski (@RonFilipkowski) February 9, 2024 Putin equates jailed US journalist to FSB professional killer, reporter says Friday 9 February 2024 00:28 , Gustaf Kilander This is both mind-blowing in it's obscenity and Freudian. Putin has been offering the US to swap Evan for the killer Krasikov for months. Not realizing Germany is a sovereign country that won't just take instructions from the US. Christo Grozev (@christogrozev) February 9, 2024 VIDEO: Putin calls Ukraine an artificial state shaped at Stalins will Friday 9 February 2024 00:21 , Gustaf Kilander Putin claims Ukraine peace deal was blocked by Boris Johnson Friday 9 February 2024 00:15 , Gustaf Kilander Tucker: "I think you're saying you want a negotiated settlement to what's happening in Ukraine." Putin: "Right ... We were ready to sign it and the war would have been over long ago, 18 months ago..." pic.twitter.com/HGhT81tbtR Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) February 8, 2024 Putin mocks Carlson like his little child Friday 9 February 2024 00:12 , Gustaf Kilander At the beginning of the interview, Putin launches into a 25 minute rant of historical reasons why Ukraine should be part of Russia. Tucker tries to interrupt, and is smacked down by Putin who mocks him like his little child. pic.twitter.com/mr2ivN5cXh Ron Filipkowski (@RonFilipkowski) February 9, 2024 'The Tucker Face Friday 9 February 2024 00:10 , Gustaf Kilander At the beginning of Tucker's Putin interview, the Russian President delivers a 30 minute, virtually uninterrupted rant on Russian and Ukrainian history. I have been covering Tucker for almost 5 years at this point and the Tucker Face Tucker Is Tuckering is a hall of famer pic.twitter.com/BngoWcXMCP nikki mccann ramirez (@NikkiMcR) February 8, 2024 Stop supplying weapons and it will be over within weeks' Friday 9 February 2024 00:08 , Gustaf Kilander Asked why he doesnt call President Joe Biden and work out a solution in Ukraine, Putin asked: Whats there to work out? Stop supplying weapons and it will be over within weeks, Putin added. Asked about a possible nuclear conflict, Putin said: Thats what theyre talking about and theyre trying to intimidate their own people with these threats .... smart people understand that this is a fake, theyre trying to fuel the Russian threat. Asked if Putin would attack Poland, he said: only in one case, if Poland attacks Russia we have no interest in Poland, Latvia or anywhere. It is absolutely out of the question ... it goes against common sense to be involved in a global war ... and a global war will bring humanity to the brink of destruction, he added. Putin claims jailed US journalist Evan Gershkovich was caught red-handed receiving secrets Friday 9 February 2024 00:03 , John Bowden Russian President Vladimir Putin denied that jailed American journalist Evan Gershkovich was innocent of the espionage charges for which he remains imprisoned during a rare interview with right-wing commentator Tucker Carlson. In the conversation, which was published in full on Thursday, Mr Putin insisted that Mr Gershkovich had obtained classified information from one of his sources in a clandestine manner, and had been caught red-handed upon receiving the information. The Wall Street Journal and US news outlets have strongly denied any wrongdoing by Mr Gershkovich and protested that his activities fell strictly under the umbrella of legitimate journalism. He was receiving classified confidential information, and he was doing it covertly, the Russian president told Carlson. Mr Putin added: He was caught red-handed when he was receiving this information. Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website Col. Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi signalled on Friday that he plans to take a tougher approach than his predecessor following a major shake-up of the country's military leadership aimed at reigniting momentum in the deadlocked war with Russia. Syrskyi said his immediate goals are to improve the troop rotation at the front lines and harness the power of new technology, at a time when Kyiv's forces are largely on the defensive in the war with Russia. New tasks are on the agenda, Syrskyi said on his Telegram channel. Though he provided little detail, his remarks appeared to align with President Volodymyr Zelenskyys stated aim of bringing renewal to the armed forces with Thursdays shake-up and adopting a fresh approach to the fight. Among the main challenges facing the Ukrainian armed forces are a shortage of manpower and inadequate supplies of Western weapons, including ammunition. Syrskyi's predecessor, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, was meanwhile awarded the country's highest honour on Friday, receiving Golden Star Award from Zelenskyy during a ceremony in Kyiv. Former Commander-in-Chief of Ukraine's Armed Forces Valerii Zaluzhnyi, right, and newly appointed Commander-in-Chief of Ukraine's Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrsky - AP/Ukrainian Presidential Press Office Other top members of the military including the chief of Ukraine's Military Intelligence Kyrylo Budanov were also presented with the honour. Ukrainian authorities reported over 90 Russian combat clashes on Friday, including 49 airstrikes, and 52 rocket strikes on Ukrainian troops' positions and populated areas. As a result of the air strike in the Sumy region, two civilians were killed, four were injured, and houses, a farm and a warehouse were damaged. COLUMBUS The Nebraska State Patrol provided additional details Thursday on an officer-involved shooting Tuesday that left a Columbus teen dead. Officers were conducting a welfare check Tuesday afternoon in the 3600 block of 39th Avenue following a report of a person who might be harming themselves. According to the State Patrol, Columbus police officers made contact with a 17-year-old boy inside the residence. The teen, identified as Chase Ditter, was in possession of a knife, the State Patrol said. During the encounter, one Columbus police officer deployed a Taser, while the other shot Ditter. Ditter died at the scene. The release does not name the police officers involved in the shooting. The Columbus Police Department has placed both officers involved on administrative leave. The department requested that the State Patrol investigate the incident, which is the typical procedure for officer-involved shootings. The State Patrol's Special Investigations Team is conducting the in-custody death investigation, which was ongoing as of Thursday. Review of police shootings in Lincoln since 2013 1. Douglas DaMoude, May 30, 2014 2. Tyson Hubbard, March 5, 2015 3. Tareik Artis, Sept. 22, 2015 4. Zachary Grigsby, Nov. 29, 2015 5. Germichael Kennedy, June 26, 2016 6. Thomas Sailors, Jan. 5, 2018 7. Christopher Brennauer, Dec. 29, 2018 8. Joseph Francis Cimino, Oct. 8, 2019 9. Hailey Stainbrook and Christian Alexander, Feb. 20, 2021 10. German Pedraza, Nov. 24, 2021 11. Chace Abney, May 1, 2023 12. Stephen Kafka, Oct. 17,2023 The FBI arrested a Tennessee man prosecutors say was headed to the border with a sniper rifle and explosives to join a militia, but the mans son says hes all talk. Meanwhile, a new study shows threats against local elected officials continue to spike as the country moves towards a contentious presidential election. And a new report says an audio recording of a Navy SEAL previously under investigation for extremist ties captures him using a Proud Boys slogan. Its the week in extremism. Shipping containers line the bank of the Rio Grande at Shelby Park in Eagle Pass on Jan. 19. Arrest made after FBI investigation into border extremism The FBI arrested Paul Faye of Tennessee this week on an illegal gun charge after an extensive undercover investigation into militia activity at the U.S.-Mexico border. The arrest, reported first by the newsletter Courtwatch, came as groups describing themselves as Gods Army traveled to the border amid a legal standoff between Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and the White House over the states installation of border fencing at the small town of Eagle Pass. Faye was arrested on suspicion of possessing an unlicensed firearm suppressor, a charge that carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. As Courtwatch reports, the court documents in the case show the FBI was involved in an undercover investigation of Faye and others that lasted almost a year. The arrest came after federal agents also arrested and indicted another Tennessee man last year, who was accused of plotting to go to war with the Border Patrol. According to court documents, Faye discussed plans for traveling to the border and how he planned to transport explosive devices to the border. NBC News reported Wednesday Fayes son called the federal case ridiculous: They think my dad is a terrorist, Joseph Faye, 30, told NBC. Hes not a terrorist. He talks a big game, but its all lies. FBI Director Christopher Wray, speaks with reporters during a news conference at the Department of Justice on Dec. 6, 2023, in Washington, as from left, Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Deputy Director Staci Barrera, of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Criminal Division, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas and Attorney General Merrick Garland, look on. Survey: Threats against local political officials still widespread A new report from Princeton Universitys Bridging Divides Initiative found that one in six local public officials reported receiving threats at work, while more than half reported being insulted and over a third reported harassment. Experiences of hostility while serving leads to a significant decrease in the willingness to run for public office again, the survey found. Women and minority officials received threats and harassment at a higher rate than average, the survey found, with one-in four female or minority officials experiencing hostility. As USA TODAY has reported, threats against public officials and other high-profile workers have been on the rise. Researchers found the rate of threat charges hit a new record last year. A member of the South Texas Proud Boys watches as police keep separate his group from anti-gun demonstrators outside the NRA national convention in Houston, Texas, May 2022. Report: Navy SEAL investigated for extremism used Proud Boy slogan A Navy SEAL based in San Diego was cleared in an investigation into his alleged ties to extremism. But a new report says he responded to the news by using a slogan tied to the Proud Boys extremist group. After learning the investigation concluded his prior anti-LGBTQ+ activities didnt violate Pentagon rules against extremist activities, Chief Special Warfare Operator Bryce Henson posted audio this week to the secure messaging app Telegram, San Diego public radio station KPBS reported Wednesday. According to what KPBS said was a voice memo recorded by Henson, he concluded his message with the phrase Proud of your boy, a well-known Proud Boy slogan, the station reports. Henson, who according to local media reports spent more than a year speaking to school boards against so-called Critical Race Theory and LGBTQ+ student rights, was investigated last year by the Naval Special Warfare Center on Coronado Island, according to the radio station. The investigation concluded last month, KPBS reported, with no action taken against Henson for the alleged extremism connections. Henson has been photographed with members of the Proud Boys and alongside a man with a neo-Nazi tattoo. KPBS said a Navy official reported the service was aware of Hensons latest outburst on Telegram. As USA TODAY reported throughout last year, the militarys once-vaunted efforts to stamp out extremism in the ranks appear to have largely fallen by the wayside. Statistic of the week: 21 Thats how many death, bomb and other threats followed against schools and other institutions after the far-right influencer Libs of Tik Tok posted about them, according to a report this week from NBC News. USA TODAY published an investigation in November confirming more than two dozen threats made against schools, hospitals and other organizations following Libs of TikTok posts. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Increased threats and a militia member arrested: The week in extremism More cruise lines are rerouting ships to avoid the Red Sea, amid continued attacks in the area. Virgin Voyages has scrapped upcoming plans to sail its Resilient Lady ship in Australia. The vessel will offer Caribbean cruises instead. The line said the "significant and ongoing conflict puts unacceptable risks for safe passage through the region" for guests, crew and the vessel. "As a result, we have been left with no choice but to cancel our 2024/25 voyage season plans for Resilient Lady, impacting the late 2024 and early 2025 repositioning voyages between Europe and Australia and a second sailing season in Australian waters," the line said in an emailed statement. After wrapping up its Mediterranean season on Oct. 20, the ship will head to San Juan, Puerto Rico to operate seven, eight, 10 and 11-night voyages. The sailings will visit destinations including St. Maarten, St. Vincent and Dominica. "We are currently reviewing Resilient Ladys repositioning routes from Athens to San Juan, and we will share these as soon as theyre ready, but they will feature stunning ports including Catania, Casablanca, and Tenerife," Virgin added. Passengers booked on impacted itineraries can rebook on a different voyage or get a full refund. Virgin is also "working through options to return to Australia and the Asia Pacific region once regional repositioning opportunities become more tenable." If the line is able to return in 2025, guests with existing bookings will receive priority. The line previously altered a repositioning cruise on Resilient Lady departing from Sydney, Australia, on March 27, impacting the journeys three legs. The vessel will now sail from Sydney to Cape Town until April 17; from Cape Town to Barcelona through May 4; and from Barcelona to Athens through May 9. Resilient Lady was originally scheduled to sail from Sydney to Singapore; from Singapore to Dubai; and from Dubai to Athens (guests could book one or multiple segments of the 43-day voyage). The safety of our passengers and crew is our number one priority, a spokesperson for the line said in an earlier statement. Like many other cruise brands, we have been watching the current conflict in the Middle East closely, connecting regularly with global security experts to consider the impacts to the repositioning voyages planned for Resilient Lady in 2024. We remain concerned about potential escalations in this part of the world over the next 12 months and the risk that this presents for safe passage through the region. Guests booked on the original three legs will have guaranteed spots on these sailings at no additional cost and a price protection commitment in place, the spokesperson said. They can also opt for a future cruise credit based on the amount they paid or a full refund. The Iranian-backed Houthis have launched dozens of attacks on commercial and naval vessels in the Red Sea in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war. The Yemen-based militants have claimed they are showing solidarity with the Palestinians (though experts say their motivations are more complex). What other cruise lines have changed itineraries to avoid the Red Sea? The news comes after Carnival Corp., the parent company of major cruise lines including Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises and Holland America Line, said late last month that it would alter itineraries for a dozen ships set to transit the Red Sea through May. The company has not seen an impact on booking trends due to the Red Sea situation and has no other Red Sea transits until November 2024, Carnival Corp. said in a news release. The changes will impact seven of its brands, but a spokesperson declined to share specifics on which lines and cruises were affected. Silversea Cruises and MSC Cruises also previously canceled sailings to avoid the area. Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at ndiller@usatoday.com. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Virgin Voyages, Carnival change itineraries to avoid Red Sea Massachusetts voters have it easy when it comes to casting ballots by mail for national and state-wide elections. Only in municipal elections do communities have the right to opt-out from mail-in voting. To make life even easier for registered voters in the Bay State, staffers in the office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth William F. Galvin sent mail-in ballot applications to all registered voters in January. What's Massachusetts' mail-in system? Massachusetts is a no excuse early voting/mail-in ballot state, meaning there is no need for the voter to provide a reason for casting a ballot by mail. There are some rules, however. Applications requesting mail-in ballots are due five business days before each scheduled election. That means voters looking to vote by mail in the Bay States presidential primary on March 5 will have to have their ballot requests in the possession of election officials, usually the municipal clerk, by 5 p.m. Feb. 27. The requests for the ballots can be made online, by mail or through an e-mail or fax. The forms are available on the secretary of states website. Once voters confirm their registration status, they can complete the application and request main-in ballots for next months presidential primary, for the state primary on Sept. 3 or the general election on Nov. 5. A voter could request ballots for all three elections in one fell swoop. If they're requested individually, applications must be received by Aug. 27 for the state primary and by Oct. 29 for the general election. Residents who are not registered must do so before requesting a mail-in ballot. How do I cast my mail-in ballot? Galvin urges applicants to be mindful of the postal system and allow enough time between the request and the election. He suggests voters request ballots at least two weeks ahead of time to ensure they receive their ballot with enough time to return it to their local election official in time to be counted. Ballots are delivered with a return envelope included: these can be mailed back through the U.S. Postal Service, placed in special ballot drop boxes located in communities throughout the state, hand-delivered to local election officials, or dropped off in person at early voting locations. Poll workers cannot accept mail-in ballots at polling locations on Election Day. If procrastination delays return of the ballot, it can be handed in at the election office, usually located in town hall, or placed in a ballot drop box. It must be received by close of polls except for presidential elections, when additional time is allowed for ballots that were postmarked by Election Day to be counted. In this fall's presidential election, mail-in ballots will be counted if they are dropped off or left in a drop box by the close of polls Nov. 5; postmarked by Election Day and received by 5 p.m. Nov. 8; or, if returned from outside the continental U.S., postmarked by Election Day and received by 5 p.m. Nov. 15. Problems with mail-in ballots can arise. Voters can still cast an in-person ballot if they never returned their requested mail-in ballot; if that ballot wasnt received in time by the local election office (theres a track my ballot feature on the secretary of states website) or if the ballot was rejected by the local election office. How do people qualify for absentee ballots? Absentee ballots are available for active-duty members of the military, U.S. citizens residing oversees, incarcerated residents not convicted of felonies, and residents who are hospitalized on an emergency basis. Residents might also qualify for absentee ballots for religious reasons, if they anticipate an absence from the state on Election Day or have a disability that prevents voting at a polling place. Requests for absentee ballots can be made here. This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: What to know about voting by mail in Mass. presidential primary You are the owner of this article. One of the two men shot and killed by off-duty Omaha Police Department officers on Saturday fired a single shot at the officers before they shot 21 times at the mens vehicle, authorities said Thursday. At a Thursday afternoon press conference, Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer was joined by Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert to tell reporters and the community about the fatal shooting in South Omaha. The officers will not be charged with a crime, and Schmaderer said they acted in accordance with department policy. Schmaderer showed a 17-minute video that spliced together security footage from multiple businesses near 32nd and L Streets with details from witness statements and interviews with the involved officers. Both Schmaderer and Douglas County Attorney Don Kleine concluded that the officers use of deadly force was justified after reviewing all available evidence. Under state law, a Douglas County grand jury also will be empaneled to review the case. The press conference was held five days after the two officers, identified as northeast precinct Capt. Jay Leavitt and Officer Robert Soldo, shot and killed the two men while working as security personnel for a nightclub. The men have been identified as Fernando Rodriguez-Juarez, 26, and Jonathan Hernandez-Rosales, 28. Before the press conference, authorities had said little about the circumstances that led to the early morning shooting. Much of the interaction was caught on various surveillance videos, and the aftermath was captured on Soldos body camera. Soldo did not activate his camera until after all of the shots had been fired, Schmaderer said. Stothert and Schmaderer offered their condolences to the families of Rodriguez-Juarez and Hernandez-Rosales. Schmaderer said he knows the shooting may have an impact on police-community relations in South Omaha, and he plans to continue to answer questions that community members may have. I think weve taken measures here by transparency and accountability to catapult us into the next phase of re-establishing and re-instilling the police-community relations, Schmaderer said. Ill be meeting with a group representing Latinos, and we will meet Monday, and Im gonna give them an expanded explanation as to what took place. According to the video and statements from officials: Rodriguez-Juarez and Hernandez-Rosales were at the Extasis Nightclub, located at 3050 L St., until the bar closed at 2 a.m. Saturday. Leavitt and Soldo were working as off-duty security for the nightclub, and they were wearing Omaha police uniforms. Soldo had a body camera attached to his uniform, but Leavitt did not because he is a command officer. Surveillance video showed Rodriguez-Juarez and Hernandez-Rosales walk past the two officers and out the front door of the bar. Outside the bar, the two appeared to engage in a physical confrontation with a large group of people who had gathered outside. Leavitt approached the group with his flashlight at 2:01 a.m., and the parties began to scatter. The two men left with the rest of the crowd and went to the back parking lot of Extasis, where they entered a black Jeep Cherokee. Rodriguez-Juarez entered the drivers seat, and Hernandez-Rosales sat in the passenger seat. At 2:03 a.m., the Jeep exited the Extasis parking lot and headed west on L Street. At the same time, according to video footage, a group of patrons were walking through the parking lot of Sols Jewelry and Loan, which is located directly to the west of Extasis. Some of the people in the group had been involved in the altercation outside of the nightclub minutes earlier. Leavitt and Soldo were walking behind the group to clear the parking lot, which is a normal part of their duties. At about 2:05 a.m., the Jeep Cherokee is seen on surveillance footage pulling into the west entrance and slowing down to confront the group. A grainy surveillance video appears to show Rodriguez-Juarez, the driver, reaching across Hernandez-Rosales and pointing a gun in the direction of the group. According to police, Rodriguez-Juarez fired one shot towards officers. Police also showed a video with audio from the interior of Anytime Laundry at 3120 L St., a little farther west, in which a single gunshot is audible before a long volley of shots seconds later. Leavitt began shooting into the passenger side of the vehicle as Soldo crossed in front of the Jeep, narrowly escaping being hit by the moving car, and shot into the front of the vehicle. According to Schmaderer, Leavitt fired 12 times and Soldo fired nine. Hernandez-Rosales and Rodriguez-Juarez were each hit three times. After the men were shot, the car began to roll down the alley before it crashed into a utility box and came to a stop. The officers yelled at the men to stop the car as it rolled away, according to video caught on Soldos body camera. That footage will be released after the grand jury process is completed, Schmaderer said. Police shared still photos from the body camera at Thursdays press conference. Officers continued to yell at the men to get out of the car after it came to a stop. Hernandez-Rosales and Rodriguez-Juarez did not exit the vehicle. Its unclear if they were physically able to do so, given the extent of their injuries. At one point, one of the men yelled that he needed an ambulance. Backup officers arrived with bulletproof shields to approach the car within minutes of the initial shooting. Medics were allowed into the scene about eight minutes after shots were fired, and both men were transported to the Nebraska Medical Center, where they died. Officers did not want to approach, Schmaderer said when asked Thursday about the delay in allowing medics into the scene. They had to wait for a shield to approach. The car was still running, so that was approximately eight minutes. A single 9 mm round was recovered from inside of the Jeep in the backseat, as was a semi automatic 9 mm Taurus handgun. Michael Pecha, a public information officer at OPD, said in the video that the location of the spent casing is consistent with the positioning of the handgun at the time it was fired, as it fired out of the front passenger window. In addition, according to Schmaderer, Hernandez-Rosales had stippling burns, which are caused by unburned gunpowder striking the skin, on his face and neck a sign that a gun had been fired within close proximity to his face. Schmaderer also said at the press conference that Hernandez-Rosales and Rodriguez-Juarez were in the country illegally, but he said their immigration status was shared only for background purposes and was by no means to be used as a justification for the shooting. Hernandez-Rosales, who came to the U.S. from Nicaragua, was involved in immigration proceedings. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement had no record of Rodriguez-Juarez. The League of United Latin American Citizens released a statement Thursday seeking a federal investigation into the shooting. This incident happened in the early hours of Saturday morning and has generated anger over the systemic injustices faced by Latinos at the hands of law enforcement and brought a wave of calls for urgent action, the organization said. If you are sending a Letter To the Editor, please be sure to follow these rules: Letters have a firm 200-word limit and will be edited for grammar, clarity and accuracy. The person who signs the letter must be the author. Anonymous letters will not be considered. Letters must address the editor, not a third party. We will not print form letters, libelous letters, business promotions or personal disputes, poetry, open letters, letters espousing religious views without reference to a current issue, or letters considered in poor taste. Letters reflect the opinion of the writer. The Yakima Herald-Republic cannot verify the accuracy of all statements made in letters. Writers are limited to one published letter per calendar month. A tense exchange over race, crime and disparities in the criminal judicial system capped off an otherwise banal hearing Thursday on Nebraska's proposed "stand-your-ground" law being considered by the Legislature's Judiciary Committee. The proposal from Sen. Brian Hardin of Gering would give Nebraskans broad license to use force including potentially deadly force to defend themselves when they believe they are facing death, serious injury, kidnapping or sexual assault. The bill (LB1269) would remove the provision in current state law that renders deadly force unjustified when someone using such force can flee or hand over property "with complete safety" to avoid doing so. If made law, Hardin's proposal also would extend the so-called "castle doctrine" the right to use deadly force against an assailant in your home or workplace to personal vehicles and public places in general, while providing both criminal and civil protections when someone uses force in self-defense. "'Complete safety' is a very subjective phrase," Hardin told the committee Thursday, casting his attempt to change state law as one meant to remove the need for that interpretation from statute. "What would be complete safety to me would be very different for anyone else. If I stub my toe during the retreat, is that considered to be in complete safety? ... What's considered to be complete safety for juror No. 1 could be far different than the definition for juror 12. And you could have 10 other definitions between those two." Three different testifiers opposing Hardin's bill pointed to the February 2012 shooting death of 17-year-old Trayvon Martin at the hands of a neighborhood watchman who had followed Martin from a convenience store in Florida before fatally shooting him. In his closing comments to the committee Thursday, Hardin invoked the shooting of Martin, too, saying "the evidence had demonstrated that he was, in fact, the aggressor and he attacked first, and so self-defense applied." Hardin's comment set off a nine-minute exchange between him and Sen. Terrell McKinney of Omaha, one of two Black senators in Nebraska's 49-member unicameral Legislature, who skewered Hardin over the remark and the unintended consequences his proposal could have on Nebraskans of color if made law. "You have to acknowledge the difference in how the law is applied and how people are perceived based on your race," McKinney said. "You mentioned a young man who, three days ago, would have turned 29 who was not the aggressor, who left his home to go get some snacks, who was followed by a vigilante." McKinney noted that Martin's shooter, George Zimmerman, had been advised by a police dispatcher to stop following the teen before the then-28-year-old ended the call with police prior to shooting Martin. Zimmerman, who was charged with second-degree murder, was acquitted by a jury after claiming self-defense. Florida is among 38 states considered stand-your-ground states, though not all of them have passed laws expressly indicating such, instead establishing protections through case law. "I'm trying to keep my words cool," McKinney said. "But I think you also have to think about race. And that's where I'll leave it. Like, you can say, 'Yeah, I live in a rural area so we need this.' But ... this is the state of Nebraska. We can't have different laws for different parts of the state." "You have to understand that there is a racial component to how laws are applied and how people are perceived," McKinney added. "And I would also say when you mention Trayvon Martin, I think you should really do your research on that story. He was not the aggressor." Hardin, a western Nebraska senator, had previously noted that a majority of Nebraskans who wrote in opposition to his proposal live in Lincoln or Omaha, where "seconds and seconds can go by before law enforcement might come to your rescue" while "it might be hours and hours during a snowstorm" in Gering, he said. In response to McKinney, Hardin said he had only invoked Martin's name because "it was invoked against the bill" and told McKinney the two lawmakers "would have to agree to disagree on the facts regarding that case." "What's more is I think the intent of this bill is to remove that subjectivity," Hardin said, adding: "It makes it more objective to say let's start, on a philosophical ground, by saying: 'You have a legal right to be there. You have a legal right to defend yourself.'" "I think what you're missing you're missing the racial component," McKinney said. "You would like to say that I am missing the racial component," Hardin said. "I would submit that I am not missing the racial component. I'm saying this actually helps that racial component that you're saying needs to be more central." The two went back and forth for another four minutes, trading quips over Hardin's use of the phrase "Black-on-Black crime" and McKinney's response noting that most perpetrators of mass shootings are white. Their exchange came at the tail end of the hearing that saw unlikely allies join one another in opposition to Hardin's proposal, which faced criticism from both the Nebraska County Attorneys Association and the ACLU of Nebraska. The ACLU's policy fellow, Jason Witmer, called the bill a "shoot-first law" and said it would lead to "more race-based injustice and inequity." The lead prosecutors from the state's two largest counties Don Kleine of Douglas County and Pat Condon of Lancaster County both testified in opposition to the proposal, which Condon said would create a "procedural quagmire" for prosecutors. "I think that under the difficulties that are proposed by this law it is unworkable the way this law is written," Condon said. Hardin, in his closing remarks, said prosecutors oppose the bill because they're the ones who determine "the subjective standard of the duty to retreat." "What this is really about is not dragging an innocent through the fire on the way to an acquittal," the lawmaker said. The pandemic-inspired political action committee Nebraskans Against Government Overreach offered testimony in support of Hardin's proposal, along with Women for Gun Rights, a nationwide organization, and numerous state gun owners and other self-defense advocates. Scott Thomas, who said he's been a father in Nebraska for 12 years, thanked Hardin for bringing the bill that he said would bring clarity to state law and help avoid disparities brought by subjectivity. "This body is meant to implement laws, to create laws, that bureaucratic systems can implement without any subjective interpretation," he said. "And that's how you provide for equality on the law. It's contingent upon that, actually." And John Anderson, a gun owner and Nebraska Firearms Association board member testifying on his own behalf, also supported Hardin's proposal, which he said ultimately clarifies stand-your-ground protections already offered by state law. "If deadly force is justifiable, then escape's not even an option," he said. "And if escape's an option, deadly force is not justifiable." Top Journal Star photos for January 2024 RACINE The Common Council on Tuesday approved a resolution to fly the Thin Blue Line flag at City Hall during National Police Week, but not without some debate among the council members. The agenda item originally was written to have the flag fly every year during National Police Week. However, Alder Alicia Jarrett, who represents District 14, motioned to amend the item to be reconsidered by the council every year. Jarrett said her concern was that the original meaning of the flag has changed from being something to honor police officers to being an opposition to racial injustice protests. I do not have any issue at all with that resolution to honor our police, Jarrett said. My issue is with that flag, it seems the symbol, what it was intended, has changed and it might continue to change. Jarrett said that since City Hall is so close to the police department, it will be a great gesture to show support. However, she said that because the flag is contentious, she believes it should be considered for reauthorization annually. Alder Henry Perez, who represents District 12, said that although he understood Jarretts comments, he disagreed with her motion. One of the speakers said we flew the Pride Flag. Yeah, and they dont contribute that much to our community, they dont put their lives in danger, Perez said. He said flying the Thin Blue Line flag is more than just symbolic, its also in reference to an honor we bestow onto those how have given their lives. Perez said reauthorizing flying the flag every year isnt necessary because future councils easily could consider a proposal not to fly it. We have not recognized that these officers make daily sacrifices, he said. They spend time away from their families, they get asked to walk into dangerous situations that they may not walk out of. Perez said that although there has been abuse, it is very minimal, not like other crimes, and those officers are weeded out. There could be the perception of many injustices, I get that, he said. But the truth is that its not that way. People dont like to be called to account and they overreact many times. Our officers have to deal with that, and they have to deal with the prejudices out there. Perez said flying the flag during the week of May 15 was the least council could do to honor the officers, and that it should be flown every year. I would be the first person to say we should honor the police department. Thats not the issue here, said Alder Samuel Peete, who represents District 10. I think the problem is the symbolism of the flag itself and what it might symbolize not just today but tomorrow. Symbols change, and I think anything thats going up, besides the American flag, we should be discussing that, Jarrett said. The motion to fly the flag during National Police Week was amended to be reauthorized by the council every year in a 9-3 vote. The amended motion was unanimously approved, and the Thin Blue Line flag will fly during National Police Week. Today in history: Feb. 7 1948: Omar Bradley 1962: John F. Kennedy 1964: The Beatles 1984: Spacewalk 1985: Enrique "Kiki" Camarena 1991: Jean-Bertrand Aristide 2009: Lake Erie 2014: Sochi Olympics 2018: Los Angeles Times sale 2020: Donald Trump 2021: Tampa Bay Buccaneers Edi Iordanescu: Sunt ingrijorat de situatia jucatorilor Selectionerul primei reprezentative a Romaniei, Edward Iordanescu, a declarat, astazi, ca este extrem de ingrijorat de jucatorii care nu evolueaza foarte mult la echipele de club din strainatate. El a subliniat ca merge pe continuitate si omogenitate, subliniind ca nu poate [citeste mai departe] TOP 4 activitati pe care trebuie sa le incerci cand ajungi in Bucuresti Daca te gandesti pe viitor sa vizitezi Bucurestiul sau daca locuiesti in Capitala Romaniei, dar nu stii ce activitati sa mai incerci in timpul liber, trebuie sa stii ca acest oras iti ofera o gama impresionanta de alternative de neratat. Acestea [citeste mai departe] Stiri pe aceeasi tema - The minister of Foreign Affairs, Luminita Odobescu, had a meeting, on Friday, with the ambassadors of the European Union member states accredited in Bucharest, on which occasion she emphasized the need to continue providing multidimensional support for Ukraine and a strong European support for the Republic - Peste 1.000 de refugiati ucraineni au protestat sambata, in fata sediului Consulatului Federatiei Ruse la Constanta, la doi ani de la izbucnirea razboiului, transmite News.ro . Oamenii s-au adunat intai in Parcul Primariei, la Monumentul Victoriei, iar apoi au plecat in mars catre sediul Consulatului - Cate sute de ucraineni s-au strans, sambata, 24 februarie, in Piata Victoriei din Bucuresti pentru a protesta impotriva razboiului, la doi ani de invazia Federatiei Rusa in Ucraina.Oamenii s-a adunat, sambata, la Universitate si au scandat impotriva razboiului, purtand pancarte si afisand bannere in - Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu declared on Friday evening, in Targu Mures, that Romania was affected economically due to the war in Ukraine, just like the entire world economy, but he hopes solutions will be found so that people no longer die in the neighboring country, and the economy will recover. - Lanes for vehicles registered in the European Union will become functional at several checkpoints in Romania, according to Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu. "Today, we are meeting one of the essential requests of hauliers: lanes for vehicles registered in the European Union become functional. Yesterday, - Prime minister Marcel Ciolacu said on Friday in Constanta that although there is too much talk that there is no industry in Romania anymore, that our country has collapsed, the Romanian industry still exists and is expanding, with things being on the right track."I think we talk too much that we - Prime minister Marcel Ciolacu will visit the Constanta Shipyard on Friday.He will have a meeting with representatives of the shipyard's management and will take a tour aboard a socked ship. According to the programme announced by the Government, at the end of the visit, at around 14:00., prime - Prime minister Marcel Ciolacu declared, on Thursday evening, on Romania TV, that he hopes that by the end of February over 80% of the ministries will be reorganized, Agerpres reports."I have more than 10 ministries that are currently being reorganized, the project has been made transparent. The General The Economy Ministry has transferred 848.8 million to the accounts of state holding company Corvinus to buy a majority stake in Airport Holding Consulting, the parent company of Budapest Airport, website 24 reports. In the first step the state will take an 80% share in the airport operator, with French airport management company Vinci acquiring the remaining 20%. Later, Qatari investors could buy up to 29% of the shares, reducing the states stake in the airport operator to 51%. In another option, 24 writes that Qatari ownership in the operator of Budapests international airport will be linked to the construction of a third terminal. Before the pandemic, Bloomberg estimated the value of Budapest Airport, one of the fastest-growing airport hubs in the region, to be around 4 billion. Thus, the price tag for Hungary could come to 2 billion, or roughly Ft 778 billion, exceeding the Ft 660 billion acquisition of Vodafone in late 2022. The government will finance the airport acquisition with loans from state development bank MFB and state-owned EXIM bank, as well as budgetary sources and proceeds from the sale of state assets, Economy Minister Marton Nagy said earlier. Hungary generated Ft 270 billion last year from the sale of its 15% stakes in both Erste Bank Hungary and Yettel Magyarorszag, and by reducing its holdings in the local businesses of the Vienna Insurance Group from 45% to 10%. The current owners of Budapest Airport are a three-party consortium comprising German airport operator AviAlliance (with 51%), Singaporean investment fund Malton (29%) and the Canadian pension fund Caisse de Depot (20%). You're very welcome to comment and discuss this, and enjoy more stories, via our Facebook page: Facebook.com/XpatLoopNews + via XpatLoops group: Budapest Expats - The International Community You can subscribe to our newsletter here: XpatLoop.com/Newsletters Do you want your business to reach tens of thousands of potential high-value expat customers? Then just contact us here! A Budapest court on Thursday sentenced Tamas Gyarfas, the former head of Hungarys swimming federation, to seven years in a maximum security prison and Tamas Portik, the one-time head of an oil company involved in illicit deals in the nineties, to life in prison for their involvement in the murder of Hungarian media mogul Janos Fenyo in 1998. Gyarfas, a media businessman, was found guilty of complicity to commit murder, while Portik was convicted of instigating the murder. The Budapest Municipal Court banned both defendants for ten years from participating in public affairs. Judge Peter Pota said the earliest Gyarfas could be released on parole was after serving four-fifths of his sentence. Portik could be eligible for parole in 20 years time at the earliest, he added. According to the verdict, Gyarfas commissioned Portik and Peter Tasnadi, current convicts in connection with other cases, to kill Fenyo, his business rival. Portik hired Slovak criminal Jozef Rohac to carry out the murder, who then killed Fenyo on February 11, 1998. You're very welcome to comment and discuss this, and enjoy more stories, via our Facebook page: Facebook.com/XpatLoopNews + via XpatLoops group: Budapest Expats - The International Community You can subscribe to our newsletter here: XpatLoop.com/Newsletters Do you want your business to reach tens of thousands of potential high-value expat customers? Then just contact us here! There shall be no mercy for paedophiles, Prime Minister Viktor Orban said, adding that he had filed a constitutional amendment to prevent a pardon from being granted to perpetrators of crimes committed against minors. Orban said on Facebook that he had submitted the amendment proposal on behalf of the government, adding that it was his personal belief that there must be no mercy for paedophiles. He said a debate on the powers of the presidential pardon had arisen, adding that whats needed now is not to be lawyerly but to establish clarity with an unequivocal decision. He said he had five children and six grandchildren, adding that if anybody touched them, his first thought would be that they must be cut in half, they must be cut into tiny pieces. The opposition Democratic Coalition (DK) has written a letter to Pope Francis regarding President Katalin Novaks pardon to a former deputy head of a childrens home in Bicske, near Budapest. Ahead of the Popes visit last April, Novak granted presidential pardon to, among others, the former deputy director of a childrens home in Bicske convicted of being an accomplice in paedophile crimes. DK group leader Olga Kalman told an online press conference that the letter was delivered to Michael W Banach, the apostolic nuncio to Hungary. Kalman said DK hoped the Pope would find a way to express our common belief that citing a servant of Jesus cannot pave the way for cooperation with sin and sinners. She said DK strove to protect children and would not allow paedophile-stroking Katalin Novak and the Orban government to set free further paedophile criminals. MTI Photo: Zsolt Szigetvary You're very welcome to comment and discuss this, and enjoy more stories, via our Facebook page: Facebook.com/XpatLoopNews + via XpatLoops group: Budapest Expats - The International Community You can subscribe to our newsletter here: XpatLoop.com/Newsletters Do you want your business to reach tens of thousands of potential high-value expat customers? Then just contact us here! Planning for the revamp of a major section of Budapests Ring Road linking Petofi Bridge and Margaret Bridge is set to begin this year, with the first stage of the renovation works expected to get under way next year, Budapest Mayor Gergely Karacsony said. The renovation of the section between Nyugati Square and Mester Street is expected to be completed by the end of the next city administration term, Karacsony said in response to a question at a press conference. The mayor spoke after a cabinet meeting in Budapests 7th district, where the 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th districts signed an agreement on the project. The project will be financed from 4 billion forints (EUR 10.3m) in European Union funds, as well as city council and district resources, Karacsony said. In addition to renovating the physical space, the project is aimed at creating a uniform image for the city, he said, adding that this will be linked with a business development scheme. The mayor said the study preceding the project had already been carried out in the form of a broad social dialogue. He said in response to questions that the city council will use its own resources to repave the road, adding that the districts will be responsible for repairing their own pavement sections. Karacsony said the city would not be starting the planning from scratch, as a comprehensive plan to renovate the Ring Road had already been approved back in 2021. He said the project will increase the size of green areas, protect the existing tree line, add better protected bicycle lanes, improve the quality of the pavement and add more crosswalks. Plans also include the launch of a credit scheme for microbusinesses with a view to attracting socially productive businesses to the Ring Road, Karacsony said. Tamas Soproni, the mayor of the 6th district, said it was important to refurbish the facade of the buildings along the Ring Road that were damaged in the second world war and the 1956 revolution. He said it would also be important to open up to cultural institutions and civil society, adding that the districts should incentivise proprietors on the Ring Road to also attract businesses other than pubs to the area. Meanwhile, asked about cooperation among the opposition parties in this years local elections, Karacsony said the parties included in Budapests leadership remained committed to staying united. We may not contest the elections on a joint list, but certainly as one political community, he said, adding that certain disagreements regarding the mayoral candidates still had to be settled. You're very welcome to comment and discuss this, and enjoy more stories, via our Facebook page: Facebook.com/XpatLoopNews + via XpatLoops group: Budapest Expats - The International Community You can subscribe to our newsletter here: XpatLoop.com/Newsletters Do you want your business to reach tens of thousands of potential high-value expat customers? Then just contact us here! 1. Yes. It will be convenient and the fares are cheap. I plan to use the transit system often. 2. Yes. I have a vehicle, but I may still use the service now and then, especially in bad weather. 3. No. I dont use the current bus service, and I dont plan to use the micro-transit service either. 4. No. It may be fine in town, but it still involves a transfer for longer trips. That wont work. 5. Unsure. Its hard to say. It depends on how well the service works once its in place. Vote View Results A 14-year-old Omaha boy admitted to sexually assaulting two women at knifepoint last summer during a Juvenile Court appearance on Wednesday. The teen, who was 13 years old at the time of the assaults, admitted to two counts of first-degree sexual assault, one count of terroristic threats and one count of use of a knife to commit a felony. Prosecutors dismissed nine additional charges on Wednesday, including robbery and kidnapping, as part of a plea deal. Douglas County Juvenile Court Judge Candice Novak set another hearing for Feb. 26 to decide where the teen will be placed. He has been accepted at two residential treatment facilities for sexually offending youths: Whitehall, which is based in Lincoln, and Youth Health Associates, which has multiple locations in Utah. Because he was 13 at the time of the assaults, the Juvenile Court will have jurisdiction over the teen until he turns 19. State law restricts prosecutors from trying juveniles younger than 14 as adults. The teen will continue to be held at the Douglas County Youth Center until a placement is chosen by Novak. At the next hearing, representatives from Whitehall and Youth Health Associates will be asked to share information about the programs before Novak makes a decision. Im very concerned about where were going to place him, Novak said. I need a lot more information than I have today to feel comfortable making a decision. According to an advocate for the teen present at Wednesdays hearing, the teen has been involved in multiple fights while incarcerated at the County Youth Center and once exposed himself to another person at the facility. Novak said she wanted to make sure his potential placement was aware of the ongoing violent behavior. At the end of the hearing, Novak addressed the teen directly. The information before me is not good, young man, Novak said before reprimanding the teen for rolling his eyes. Since you have been at DCYC, youve continued to engage in violent criminal behavior. You dont have any self control, clearly. According to court documents, police reports and in-court statements from prosecutors: The teen stole a car on the morning of July 7, 2023, and was driving that car at the time of both assaults. The first assault occurred at about 4:15 p.m. near 43rd and Nicholas Streets as a woman was walking through a parking lot. The teen got out of the car before approaching the woman with a knife and demanding that she get into the car. The woman resisted and grabbed the teens wrist. The teen then put his hand down her pants and sexually assaulted her by digital penetration. He fled from the area after a neighbor saw the commotion and yelled at him to leave. Less than an hour later, another sexual assault was reported at Memorial Park. The woman told police that she was forced off the sidewalk and into the tree line at knifepoint before the teen took off her clothes, raped and strangled her. He also threatened to kill the woman because she saw his face, but fled after hearing police sirens and a helicopter overhead. Honda has unveiled the refreshed 2024 Honda City Hatchback, following the success of last year's Honda City facelift in Thailand. This updated version brings a blend of cosmetic refinements and functional enhancements to the hatchback lineup. The company has also introduced the ADAS into the lineup. Lets delve into the details of this new hatchback. Honda City Hatchback Facelift 2024 New Variants and Design Compared to its predecessor, the 2024 Honda City Hatchback facelift offers an expanded range of five variants. The 2024 Honda City Hatchback facelift inherits several cosmetic updates from its sedan counterpart. Notable changes include a slimmer chrome strip at the front and a redesigned grille with a new mesh insert. The RS variants showcase a more aggressive bumper design and a new diffuser-like element at the rear. In contrast, non-RS variants feature a blacked-out lower apron. Color options vary across the variants, with RS models offering exclusive choices like Ignite Red Metallic and Brilliant Sporty Blue Metallic With Black Roof, while other options include Crystal Black Pearl, Meteoroid Gray Metallic, Sonic Gray Pearl, Taffeta White (Only for S+), and Platinum White Pearl (Only for e:HEV RS, e:HEV SV, RS, and SV variants). Hatchback Facelift 2024 Powertrain Powering these variants is a 1.0-liter inline-three VTEC Turbo petrol engine, delivering 122 PS of maximum power and 173 Nm of peak torque. These models are compatible with gasohol, a fuel blend containing around 10% ethanol. Additionally, there's a new e:HEV SV variant priced at 729,000 baht (~ Rs 16.85 lakh), and the e:HEV RS variant, which now comes at a reduced price of 799,000 baht (~ Rs 18.47 lakh). The e:HEV variants utilize an Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (i-MMD) hybrid system, featuring an electric motor generating 109 PS and 253 Nm, driving power to the front wheels. Hatchback Facelift 2024 With ADAS Honda is now providing Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) through the comprehensive Honda Sensing suite across all model variants. Enhanced trims include additional amenities like a multi-angle reverse camera, wireless connectivity for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Honda Connect telematics, 16-inch alloy wheels, electronic parking brake, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, rain-sensing wipers, and Honda LaneWatch technology. Hatchback Facelift 2024 Pricing Details The entry-level S+ variant starts at 599,000 baht (approximately Rs 13.85 lakh), followed by the SV variant at 679,000 baht (~ Rs 15.70 lakh), and the RS variant priced at 749,000 baht (~ Rs 17.32 lakh). With these updates, the 2024 Honda City Hatchback facelift promises an enticing blend of style, performance, and advanced features, further solidifying its position in the hatchback segment. Every morning at 6 am, oil marketing companies (OMCs) in India disclose the daily rates for petrol and diesel. These prices are adjusted based on fluctuations in global crude oil prices and foreign exchange rates. This practice ensures that consumers are kept informed about the daily changes in fuel costs. City-wise Rates: As of February 9, 2024, the petrol price in Mumbai stood at Rs 106.31 per litre, surpassing the Rs 100 mark. Similarly, the price of diesel in Mumbai was Rs 94.27 per litre. In Delhi, the cost of diesel was recorded at Rs 89.62 per litre. Fuel prices in India have remained stable since May 2022, following a reduction in fuel taxes by both the central government and several states. This stability has provided some relief to consumers amid fluctuations in global oil markets. Factors Influencing Prices Several factors influence the pricing of petrol and diesel in India: 1. Crude Oil Price: The price of crude oil, as the primary raw material for petrol and diesel production, directly impacts the final cost of these fuels. Fluctuations in global crude oil prices can lead to adjustments in fuel prices in the domestic market. 2. Exchange Rate Dynamics: India's status as a major importer of crude oil means that the exchange rate between the Indian rupee and the US dollar also plays a significant role in determining petrol and diesel prices. Changes in this exchange rate can influence the import costs of crude oil, subsequently affecting domestic fuel prices. The Indian government oversees fuel prices through mechanisms such as excise taxes, base pricing, and price caps. These measures help in stabilizing fuel prices and mitigating the impact of external factors on consumers New Delhi: Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, a maestro known for crafting timeless classics, gifted Bollywood a masterpiece in 2005 with the release of 'Black'. As we revisit this cinematic gem, it's not just a trip down memory lane but an invitation for a whole new generation to discover a genre that was truly ahead of its time. Given the Legacy of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's brilliance, 'Black' now opens its doors to a younger audience on Netflix. Amitabh Bachchan and Rani Mukerji's splendid performances in the classic not only captivated Indian audiences but also garnered widespread acclaim on the global stage. The film earned a plethora of nominations and awards, showcasing the extraordinary talent and depth brought to the characters by these two powerhouse actors. What sets 'Black' apart is its ability to transcend borders. In 2005, the film secured the fifth position in Time (Europe)'s esteemed list of the 10 Best Movies, attaining global recognition for its cinematic brilliance. The inclusion of "Black" in such a prestigious list underscored its universal appeal and the director's ability to create narratives that resonate beyond geographical boundaries. As we introduce a new generation to the magic of 'Black,' it becomes a bridge between the past and the present. Sanjay Leela Bhansali's vision, coupled with the stellar performances of Amitabh Bachchan and Rani Mukerji, has etched the movie into the annals of Indian cinema as a timeless classic that continues to win hearts. The Indian space sector is buzzing with new opportunities and all the credit goes to Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) momentous success in various missions. Amid the growing craze for the space sector, the ITM SLS Baroda University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) in presence of Nilesh Desai, Director of the Space Applications Centre (SAC-ISRO), and several esteemed officials from ISRO, marked a significant collaboration between academia and the space agency. Desai highlighted the importance of such partnerships in fostering scientific advancements and technological innovations. He emphasized ISRO's commitment to nurturing talent and creating opportunities for students, academicians, and researchers. The MOU is poised to be a game-changer for the academic and research community at ITM SLS Baroda University. The collaboration will facilitate research opportunities, onternships and training programs, and knowledge transfer through workshops, seminars, and guest lectures among others. University President Kanu Priya Singh Rathore expressed her joy over the MoU and added that the university is committed to foster research in the space sector. Vice President Ravindra Singh Rathore emphasized that the MOU marked a pivotal moment in the university's journey, one that would have far-reaching effects on various facets of its functioning. New Delhi: Uttarakhand's Haldwani city witnessed a violent clash between the police and a mob on Thursday over the demolition of an illegal structure, which some claimed to be a madrasa. Six people died and 100 others were injured in the incident, which also saw the police station in Banbhoolpura being torched and vandalised by the rioters. Six people lost their lives in the violence and eleven others, including a journalist, are undergoing treatment at various hospitals. Most of the injured were given first aid and discharged. Uttarakhand DGP Abhinav Kumar said on Friday that the police will take strict action against those who attacked the police personnel and damaged public property. He said the police will invoke the National Security Act (NSA) against the unruly elements who indulged in arson and vandalism. He assured that the situation is under control and normalcy will be restored in the city soon. BJP MPs Allege Conspiracy, Shiv Sena MP Blames Polarisation The violence in Haldwani sparked a political blame game, with several BJP MPs accusing the rioters of being part of a conspiracy. BJP Rajya Sabha MP Harnath Yadav said that the mob used bombs, country pistols, and other weapons to attack the government officials and the police. He demanded that the rioters should be shot at sight and no leniency should be shown to them. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi, on the other hand, blamed the BJP for creating a polarised atmosphere in the state and the country. She said that the BJPs intention is to divide people for votes and that is why such incidents are happening. She said that the attack on the police is shameful and shows the prevalence of hooliganism in BJP-ruled states. CM Visits Haldwani, DM Denies Communal Angle Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami visited Haldwani on Friday and met the police personnel who were injured in the violence. He condemned the incident and said that it was an attempt to spoil the atmosphere of Dev Bhoomi Uttarakhand. He said that the anti-encroachment drive was being carried out as per the courts direction and the administration had notified the people beforehand. He said that some people took the law into their own hands and attacked the police, journalists, and public properties. He said that the law will take its own course and those who caused damage will have to pay for it. Earlier in the day, Nainital District Magistrate Vandana Singh clarified that the incident was not communal and appealed to everyone to not make it sensitive. She said that the structure that was being demolished was not a madrasa, but an empty property with two unregistered buildings. She said that the attack on the police was unprovoked and pre-planned, and that the mob used petrol bombs to set fire to the police station. She said that the demolition drive was peaceful and the police did not use any force. The city was under curfew and shoot-at-sight orders on Thursday after the violence broke out. The orders were lifted on Friday evening after the situation improved. New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Friday announced that he has conferred the Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian honour of India, to three eminent personalities: former Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao, former PM Chaudhary Charan Singh, and the father of the Green Revolution M.S. Swaminathan. The decision has triggered political interpretations, as all three names have been long demanded for the prestigious award. One of them is from North India, while the other two are from South India. Recently, Modi had also awarded the Bharat Ratna to L.K. Advani, a veteran BJP leader and a key figure in the Ram Mandir movement. Bharat Ratna For Congresss Narasimha Rao PM Modi has decided to award Bharat Ratna to former PM Narasimha Rao. He was a towering leader of the Congress party and the father of economic reforms in India. The BJP leaders often criticized that Congress did not treat him well. It is also interesting that a few days ago, when the announcement was made to give the Bharat Ratna to Lal Krishna Advani, the biggest leader of the Ram Mandir movement and the founding member of the BJP, some people questioned the fact that it is their own government and they are honoring their own people, then what is the difference between Congress and BJP? Now, giving the countrys highest civilian award to a leader associated with the opposition party, Congress, can only be called Modi governments masterstroke. This will send a message to the public and BJP will try to convey that Modi government does not do politics on awards but treats everyone equally. The announcement of the Lok Sabha elections is going to happen soon. In such a situation, the impact of this decision is certain. Rao was born in Warangal district of Telangana, which was then part of united Andhra Pradesh. He led the country at a time when India was stuck in the quagmire of poverty and unemployment. The situation of the country had become such that the countrys gold had to be mortgaged to repay the debt. The economy was paralyzed in the 1991 era. Raos Congress government brought economic reforms in the country. The country progressed on the path of progress by following the same economic policies. He also took India forward in the automobile sector. The way was cleared for many big companies to set up plants. The result was that in the next 2-3 years, the foreign exchange reserves increased by 15 times. Congress has always insisted that Rao laid the foundation for strengthening Indias economy in 1991. However, the Bharat Ratna is now being given by the BJP government. Telanganas demand also fulfilled The Telangana Assembly had passed a resolution in December 2020 to give Rao the Bharat Ratna. He was also the chief minister of Andhra. In such a situation, by honoring Rao from the BJP government, the politics of both the southern states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh can go in favor of the BJP. It is also possible that the BJPs Mission-400 goal may be strengthened by the major party of the state joining the NDA. The connection between the three awardees lies in their contributions to the nation. The most surprising name is that of Narasimha Rao, a Congress leader who has often been accused by BJP leaders of being neglected by his own party. Rao was the Prime Minister of India during a critical period when the country was mired in poverty and unemployment. He had to mortgage the countrys gold to repay debts, and the economy was in a state of paralysis. Raos Congress government initiated economic reforms that paved the way for Indias progress. He also boosted Indias automobile sector by allowing foreign companies to set up plants. As a result, the foreign exchange reserves increased by 15 times in the next 2-3 years. Congress has always claimed that Rao laid the foundation for strengthening Indias economy. However, it is the BJP government that is giving him the Bharat Ratna now. Some critics had objected to Modis decision to award the Bharat Ratna to Advani, saying that it was a case of favouring his own party and allies. Now, by honouring a Congress leader, Modi has delivered a masterstroke. He has sent a message to the public and the BJP that his government does not politicise awards, but treats everyone equally. With the Lok Sabha elections approaching soon, this decision could have an impact on the voters. The other two awardees are also well-deserved. Chaudhary Charan Singh was the fifth Prime Minister of India and a prominent leader of the farmers. He is widely respected for his pro-farmer policies and his role in the land reforms. He is also the founder of the Lok Dal party, which later merged with other parties to form the Janata Dal. His son, Ajit Singh, is the chief of the Rashtriya Lok Dal, a regional party in Uttar Pradesh that has allied with the BJP in the past. M.S. Swaminathan is a renowned agricultural scientist and a Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan awardee. He is credited with leading the Green Revolution in India, which transformed the country from a food-deficit to a food-surplus nation. He has also made significant contributions to the fields of biodiversity, biotechnology, and sustainable development. He is the founder of the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation, which works for the welfare of farmers and rural communities. Modis decision to award the Bharat Ratna to these three personalities has also fulfilled the demands of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, two southern states where the BJP is trying to expand its base. The Telangana Assembly had passed a resolution in December 2020, requesting the Centre to confer the Bharat Ratna to Rao, who was born in Warangal district of the then united Andhra Pradesh. He was also the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh. By honouring Rao, the BJP government could win the favour of both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, and strengthen its ally, the NDA, in the mission to achieve 400 seats in the Lok Sabha. Modi's Masterstroke For West UP The BJP had a reason to worry about West UP, especially the Jat-dominated areas, due to the farmers protest and other factors. But that concern may have been largely resolved by the announcement of awarding the Bharat Ratna to former PM Chaudhary Charan Singh. He was a towering leader of the Jat community and the father of Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) founder Ajit Singh. The RLD is now headed by his grandson Jayant Chaudhary. The decision to honor the grandfather came amid speculations that the grandsons party RLD was leaving the opposition alliance and joining the BJP. It is likely that the deal was already sealed. The BJP may offer the RLD two seats in the Lok Sabha and one seat in the Rajya Sabha. Jayant Chaudharys tweet today also hinted at this possibility. He wrote on social media after his grandfather Charan Singh got the Bharat Ratna - You won my heart. It is clear that this could have a similar impact as in Bihar. PM Modi highlighted the point that would resonate with this decision while sharing the picture of Chaudhary Charan Singh today. He wrote that this honor is a tribute to his unmatched contribution to the nation. He dedicated his whole life to the rights and welfare of the farmers. He served as the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, the home minister of the country, and a parliamentarian, and always propelled the nation-building process. He also stood firm against the Emergency. His devotion to our farmer brothers and sisters and his commitment to democracy during the Emergency are inspiring for the entire nation. It is evident that with this decision, the Modi government will present itself as a government that gives priority to the farmers. Charan Singh was also the first non-Congress CM of UP after breaking away from the Congress. There was a long-standing demand to give him the Bharat Ratna. He is remembered as the messiah of the farmers. It is likely that the BJP will win the hearts of the entire Jatland. Swaminathan: The Man Behind Green Revolution He may be less known to todays generation, but Dr. M.S. Swaminathans contribution to the agricultural sector is immense. He strengthened agricultural education and research. He believed that the improved varieties of crops would not only benefit the farmers but also solve the food crisis. He was born in Tamil Nadu. He witnessed the Bengal famine and decided to dedicate his life to the improvement of the countrys agricultural sector. He received a special recognition for the Green Revolution. This increased the crop production. In the 1960s and 70s, he introduced high-yielding varieties of wheat and rice. India became self-reliant in food production as a result. He passed away a few months ago. Thus, the Modi government has given the Bharat Ratna to two legends associated with the agricultural sector. Chaudhary Charan Singh is a big name from the north, while Dr. Swaminathan is from the south. Another interesting thing is that there was a long-standing demand to give the Bharat Ratna to Swaminathan, the leader of the Green Revolution. Now, even without intending to, the parties of Tamil Nadu will have to appreciate the BJP governments decision and it may also have an impact on the public. New Delhi: In 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took everyone by surprise with the announcement of the Bharat Ratna for Pranab Mukherjee, the astute Congressman and former President of India. This decision raised eyebrows, with some commentators suggesting that the BJP had appropriated a part of Mukherjee's legacy. Others speculated that it was only a matter of time before PV Narasimha Rao, the former Indian Prime Minister who allegedly had a strained relationship with the Gandhis, would be honored in a similar fashion. It indeed happened, in same manner, during an election year and ahead of the electoral battle. Rao, today, was announced for a posthumous Bharat Ratna, underscoring a significant political maneuver. Gandhis' Congress: No Place for Rao The Congress party has been accused of consistently overlooking Rao. Things started right after its defeat in the 1996 elections. Party committees set up to analyze the reasons for the Congress debacle quickly blamed Rao's economic reforms and the demolition of the Babri Masjid. Ironically, years later, when Dr Manmohan Singh was appointed Prime Minister, those same reforms were hailed as his main credentials. The party statements conveniently omitted Narasimha Rao's involvement - perhaps bigger - in the same. Furthermore, many Congressmen saw Babri Masjid incident during his tenure was seen as damaging to the Congress' traditionally strong Muslim vote bank. It is widely alleged that Congress leadership, influenced by then-chief Sonia Gandhi's dislike for Rao, did not allow his body to be brought to the AICC headquarters in Delhi. This decision has been criticized, particularly in Rao's home state of Telangana, where the opposition continues to leverage it for political advantage. Congress Woke Up, But Too Late After years of downplaying Rao's contributions, the Congress seemed to have a change of heart in 2020. Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi issued statements praising Rao's "bold leadership" and "erudite personality." This shift occurred in the context of the Modi-led government honoring Pranab Mukherjee with a Bharat Ratna and the Telangana Chief Minister's announcement of year-long celebrations to commemorate Rao's contributions to the nation. However, the party struggled to maintain a consistent stance, as seen when Mani Shankar Aiyar controversially labeled Rao as communal and "the first Prime Minister of the BJP" during a book launch in August. The Modi Strategy Team Modi, seizing the opportunity, announced the Bharat Ratna for Rao, capitalizing on Congress's apparent neglect of its former leader. The Congress must recognize that Modi's strategy extends beyond Rao. The BJP has successfully associated itself with other prominent figures traditionally celebrated by the Congress, such as Subhash Chandra Bose and Lal Bahadur Shastri. The trend suggests that more Congress stalwarts, like Madan Mohan Malaviya and Bal Gangadhar Tilak, might be similarly embraced by the BJP in the future, further challenging Congress's claim to its historical legacy. New Delhi: Sidharth Malhotra's journey may not have begun in the glitz and glamour of Bollywood, but his ambition was clear. Starting as a model at 18, he quickly rose through the ranks, winning titles like Mr. Gujarat and Gladrags Face of the Year. While modelling provided a platform, acting was his true calling. Learning the Craft: From Sets to Silver Screen: Recognizing the value of understanding filmmaking, Sidharth took on the role of an assistant director to Karan Johar in "My Name Is Khan." This immersive experience equipped him with valuable behind-the-scenes knowledge, preparing him for the spotlight. A Grand Debut and Early Challenges: His Bollywood debut arrived in 2012 with Karan Johar's "Student of the Year." While commercially successful, the film also brought comparisons to his co-stars, highlighting the pressure faced by newcomers. Finding His Groove: Experimentation and Acclaim: Undeterred, Sidharth diversified his portfolio, tackling romantic comedies like "Hasee Toh Phasee," thrillers like "Ek Villain," and dramas like "Kapoor & Sons." These projects showcased his versatility and earned him critical acclaim. The Turning Point: Embodying a Hero's Legacy: The biopic "Shershaah" marked a turning point in Sidharth's career. His portrayal of Captain Vikram Batra resonated deeply with audiences, earning him widespread praise and solidifying his position as a leading actor. Beyond Acting: Expanding Horizons: Driven by curiosity, Sidharth ventured into production with "Brotherhood," showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit. He also actively uses his platform for social causes, demonstrating his commitment to making a difference. A Decade in the Making: A Career Still Evolving: With a decade in the industry, Sidharth remains grounded yet ambitious. He continues to challenge himself with diverse roles, proving his dedication to his craft. Bharat Ratna For Former Prime Ministers: The government today awarded Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian honour, to former Prime Ministers PV Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh and scientist Dr. MS Swaminathan today. Announcing the same, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that it was a matter of great joy. This exemplifies the Modi government's commitment to the agricultural sector, as reflected by the selection of two out of three awardees, Chaudhary Charan Singh and Dr. MS Swaminathan, who have significantly championed the cause of agriculture. Two recipients of the awards, Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh, have affiliations outside the BJP, reflecting Prime Minister Modi's commitment to bestowing national honors in a non-partisan manner. Additionally, among the three awardees, Narasimha Rao and Dr. MS Swaminathan belong to South India, highlighting the Prime Minister's recognition of contributions and expertise from diverse regions across the country. Talking about Chaudhary Charan Singh, PM Modi said that this honor is dedicated to his incomparable contribution to the country. "He had dedicated his entire life to the rights and welfare of farmers. Be it the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh or the Home Minister of the country and even as an MLA, he always gave impetus to nation building. He also stood firm against the Emergency. His dedication to our farmer brothers and sisters and his commitment to democracy during the Emergency is inspiring to the entire nation," said PM Modi. pic.twitter.com/gB5LhaRkIv Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 9, 2024 Praising former PM Narasimha Rao, PM Modi said, "As a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao Garu served India extensively in various capacities. He is equally remembered for the work he did as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Union Minister, and as a Member of Parliament and Legislative Assembly for many years. His visionary leadership was instrumental in making India economically advanced, laying a solid foundation for the country's prosperity and growth. Narasimha Rao Garus tenure as Prime Minister was marked by significant measures that opened India to global markets, fostering a new era of economic development. Furthermore, his contributions to India's foreign policy, language and education sectors underscore his multifaceted legacy as a leader who not only steered India through critical transformations but also enriched its cultural and intellectual heritage." Delighted to share that our former Prime Minister, Shri PV Narasimha Rao Garu, will be honoured with the Bharat Ratna. As a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao Garu served India extensively in various capacities. He is equally remembered for the work he did as pic.twitter.com/lihdk2BzDU Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 9, 2024 The Prime Minister also praised Dr Swaminathan for his contribution to the Indian agri revolution. "It is a matter of immense joy that the Government of India is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dr. MS Swaminathan Ji, in recognition of his monumental contributions to our nation in agriculture and farmers welfare. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture during challenging times and made outstanding efforts towards modernizing Indian agriculture. We also recognise his invaluable work as an innovator and mentor and encouraging learning and research among several students. Dr. Swaminathans visionary leadership has not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured the nations food security and prosperity. He was someone I knew closely and l always valued his insights and inputs," said PM Modi. An alert has been sounded in Uttar Pradesh in the wake of the Haldwani clashes in which four people died and over 100 police personnel were injured. The alert has been issued ahead of Friday prayers. The chief of the Ittehad-e-Millat Council (IMC), Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan's demonstration in Bareilly prompted strict vigilance. Authorities have implemented stringent security measures, including route diversions and the diversion of the route towards Haldwani. The police headquarters have issued a statewide alert and urged residents of Bareilly to venture out into the city only if necessary. Directives have been given to maintain a strict vigil during prayer times at major mosques in several districts of Uttar Pradesh. Additionally, route diversions have been put in place to manage the flow of heavy vehicles. Traffic Diversions for Heavy Vehicles: From Moradabad to Nainital, Pilibhit, and Lucknow: Heavy vehicles coming from Moradabad will bypass Parsakheda and proceed towards Nainital, Pilibhit, and Lucknow. From Lucknow to Pilibhit, Nainital, and Rampur: Heavy vehicles arriving from Lucknow will bypass Rajou Parsapur and travel towards Pilibhit, Nainital, and Rampur. From Rampur, Nainital, Pilibhit, and Bareilly to Badaun: Heavy vehicles from Rampur, Nainital, Pilibhit, and Bareilly heading towards Badaun will pass through Rajou Parsapur, Faridpur, Bukhara Mode, and Ramganga. From Lucknow to Badaun: Heavy vehicles from Lucknow towards Badaun will pass through Faridpur, Bukhara Mode, and Ramganga. The return journey will also follow the same route. Zero Point Tiraha: No heavy vehicles will enter the city from here. They will take the bypass. Mini Bypass Tiraha: If heavy vehicles arrive, they will be directed towards Izzatnagar via Nainital Road using the bypass. Nainital Road Bypass: No heavy vehicles will enter the city from under the Bilwa Bridge. Pilibhit Road Vilayadham: No heavy vehicles will enter the city from under the Vilayadham Bridge. Beesalpur Chauraha: No heavy vehicles will enter the city from here. They will use the bypass. Rajou Parsapur Bypass: Heavy vehicles can reach Transport Nagar from Zero Point. Chauki Chauraha: If heavy vehicles enter the city from Satellite Tiraha, they will be directed towards Lal Phatak Road via Biyavani Kothi. Ramganga Tiraha: Heavy vehicles from Bareilly towards Bukhara Mode, Faridpur will pass through here. The entry of heavy vehicles towards Karaina will remain closed. These traffic diversions have been put in place to ensure the smooth movement of heavy vehicles while maintaining the security and peace of the city Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasahesb Thackeray) leader and former corporator Abhishek Ghosalkar was shot dead last night during a Facebook live session in the Dahisar area of Maharashtra's Mumbai. The leader was rushed to a hospital, where he succumbed to gunshot injuries. The assailant later also died by suicide as he shot himself. The Mumbai Police Crime Branch has claimed a rivalry between the victim and his assailant identified as Mauris Noronha. "The officers from the Crime Branch are carrying out the probe. Prima facie, it seems there was some kind of a rivalry between these two and the killing may have been a fallout of the same," DCP (Crime Branch) Raj Tilak Roushan said. BJP , Live (UBT) Abhishek Ghosalkar '' ? pic.twitter.com/hySUBWWZPM Srinivas BV (@srinivasiyc) February 8, 2024 This is the second such incident in January. Earlier, BJP MLA Ganpat Gaikwad allegedly opened fire at Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde) faction leader Mahesh Gaikwad at Hill Line Police Station in Ulhasnagar, triggering sharp reactions from the opposition leaders. The opposition has alleged failure of law and order in the state. Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole said that the incidents mark the beginning of 'Jungle Raj' in the state. Tearing into the Eknath Shinde-led NDA government, former minister and Sena-UBT leader Aaditya Thackeray said such lawlessness never prevailed under previous regimes. Claiming a total breakdown of law and order under the current dispensation, Aaditya Thackeray took to his official X handle to post, "Maharashtra has seen lawlessness like never before. It is shocking beyond words to see the law-and-order situation fail as it has today. Does the system exist at all to protect the common man? Does fear of the law exist? The administration has fully crumbled to being absent." (With ANI inputs) Nainital District Magistrate Vandana Singh today made a big claim in the Haldwani riots case. Singh said that the protestors had premeditated their actions, intending to launch an attack on the police the day bulldozer operations were scheduled. DM Vandana Singh said that violence erupted half an hour after the demolition and rioters even tried to burn police personnel alive. She said that stones were strategically placed on rooftops and petrol bombs were thrown into the police station with the intention of setting it ablaze. She refuted the allegation of intelligence failures adding that those resorting to violence posed a challenge to the state. Showing video of the demolition drive to media, Singh said that Police force and the administration were not provoking or harming anybody. She said that the encroachment drive was done after HC's order. "Despite the entire process being carried out properly, a large mob, within half an hour attacked our municipal cooperation team," she said. The DM added that stone were piled up on the roofs in advance for the attack. Responding to media queries, Singh said, "The administration went there to clear encroachment in Banbhoolpura of Haldwani in India. If the state has to do a war-like preparation just to clear an encroachment in India, then this poses serious questions on the people involved." She further said, "The demolition drive started peacefully, the force was deployed for prevention...Stones were pelted on our Municipal Corporation's team...It was planned that the day the demolition drive will be conducted the forces would be attacked...The first mob with stones were dispersed & the second mob that came in had petrol bombs. This was unprovoked and our team did not use any force." DM Nainital Singh also said that as soon as the mob was dispersed, they headed to the Gandhi Nagar area where people from all communities and religions live. "Efforts were made (by the mob) to terrorize the area...Our priority was to protect the police station and then ensure that no loss of life or property occurred in Gandhi Nagar...Our efforts were directed to protect the main city of Haldwani," she said. "The police station has been completely damaged by the mob...This is an unfortunate incident. The accused will be identified and strict action will be taken. This (incident) was not communal. I request everybody to not make it communal or sensitive. Any particular community did not retaliate...This was an effort to challenge the state machinery, state government and the law and order situation," she said. While reports claimed that four people died in the clashes, the DM pegged the official figure at two deaths. Over 100 police personnel were injured in the clashes which DM Singh said was not communal and as an attempt to challenge the state machinery. Meanwhile, a curfew remains imposed in the area with a heavy presence of police and paramilitary personnel. On the other hand, CM Pushkar Singh Dhami said that a strict action will be taken against culprits. "Will take strictest action against rioters and miscreants In connection with the incident that took place in Banbhulpura, Haldwani, a high-level meeting was held with the officials at the government residence and the current situation was reviewed. Police have been given clear instructions to deal strictly with unruly elements. Every rioter who indulged in arson and stone pelting is being identified, no miscreant who disturbs harmony and peace will be spared. Respected people of Haldwani are requested to cooperate with the police administration in maintaining peace and order," said Dhami. New Delhi: In the annals of achievement, Komal Ganatra's journey stands as a testament to resilience, determination, and the triumph of the human spirit. Her narrative transcends the ordinary contours of UPSC success stories, unfolding a saga of indomitable will amidst profound adversity. The year was 2012 when Komal Ganatra not only etched her name among the select few who cleared the UPSC Civil Services exam but also clinched a remarkable 591st rank amidst a sea of aspirants. However, her ascent to this pinnacle was no ordinary feat; it was a saga of overcoming profound despair and hardship. Married at the age of 26 to a businessman from New Zealand, Komal found herself ensnared in a grim reality marked by the scourge of dowry demands. Facing the harrowing prospect of eviction from her in-laws' home due to her inability to meet these demands, Komal endured abandonment mere weeks after her nuptials. Her quest for justice met with futile outcomes, leading her to retreat to the sanctuary of her parental abode in Savarkundala, Gujarat. Yet, her refuge offered little respite as she grappled with the barbs of criticism and taunts from kin and community alike. Undeterred by the weight of despair, Komal resolved to forge a new path for herself, charting a course of empowerment and self-reliance. Venturing into the heart of a remote village, situated some 40 kilometers from her hometown, Komal embraced the role of a primary school teacher, defying the odds on a modest monthly stipend of Rs 5000. It was amidst the rustic tranquility of her newfound vocation that Komal's indomitable spirit found resonance, fueling her resolve to embark on the arduous journey of UPSC preparation. Her personal odyssey served as both impetus and beacon, propelling her towards the corridors of power with a fervent desire to effectuate change from within. Armed with a diploma in engineering and a fervent determination to transcend her circumstances, Komal pursued her academic pursuits with unwavering resolve. From the hallowed halls of Rajkot Government Polytechnic to the corridors of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University, Komal's academic odyssey mirrored her unwavering commitment to self-improvement. Augmenting her arsenal of qualifications, she acquired a Primary Teachers Training Certificate from a local institution, fortifying her resolve to surmount the barriers that lay ahead. However, Komal's path to UPSC glory was fraught with myriad challenges, compounded by the exigencies of rural life. The specter of erratic power supply and the absence of proper guidance loomed large, impeding her quest for excellence. Deprived of the luxury of subscribing to an English newspaper, an indispensable tool for UPSC aspirants, Komal confronted the daunting specter of information asymmetry. Yet, amidst the crucible of adversity, a glimmer of hope emerged in the form of the Sardar Patel Institute of Public Administration (SPIPA), a bastion of learning that extended a lifeline to aspiring civil servants. Availing herself of this invaluable resource, Komal honed her skills and sharpened her acumen, inching closer towards her cherished goal. In her fourth endeavor in 2012, Komal's perseverance bore fruit as she emerged triumphant, securing an all-India rank of 591 in the Civil Services Examination. A testament to her tenacity and grit, this watershed moment heralded the dawn of a new chapter in Komal's life as she was entrusted with the mantle of the Indian Revenue Service (IRS). Today, Komal's indelible imprint adorns the echelons of power as she serves as an Administrative Officer in the Ministry of Defence, stationed in the bustling metropolis of Delhi. Emboldened by the triumph of her spirit, Komal's journey embodies the quintessence of resilience, serving as an inspiration to countless souls traversing the labyrinth of life. Moreover, amidst the tapestry of her achievements, love blossomed anew in Komal's life, as she found solace in the embrace of companionship once more. Remarrying and embracing motherhood with open arms, Komal now revels in the joys of parenthood, cherishing every moment spent with her adorable daughter, Takshvi, as a poignant testament to life's enduring tapestry of hope and redemption. New Delhi: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday visited Haldwani, the town that witnessed violent clashes between police and locals over the demolition of an illegal madrasa on Thursday. Dhami condemned the attack on police personnel, journalists and public properties, and said that law will take its own course against those who tried to spoil the atmosphere in the Dev Bhoomi. Speaking to news agency ANI, CM Dhami said Anti-encroachment drive has been going on as per the courts direction. Yesterday when the administration was trying to raze illegal property, this violence broke out and our police personnel including women officers were attacked and stones were pelted at them. This is highly condemnable. "Uttarakhand is Dev Bhoomithis has never happened heresome people have tried to spoil the atmosphere in Dev Bhoomi and took the law into their own handsjournalists were also attacked, their cameras were brokenpublic properties were burnedvideo footages will be checked, action will be takenLaw will take its own course, Dhami said after meeting the injured at a hospital. #WATCH | On Haldwani violence, Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami says, " Anti-encroachment drive has been going on as per the court's direction. Yesterday when the administration was trying to raze illegal property, this violence broke out and our Police personnel including pic.twitter.com/bQjysEFYPl ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) February 9, 2024 Dhami also interacted with the police personnel who were injured in the violence and assured them of all possible support from the government. He said that the state government respects all religions and communities, but will not tolerate any illegal activity or breach of peace. #WATCH | Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami interacts with the Police personnel and people who were injured in the Haldwani violence. pic.twitter.com/L3kNnrDLTj February 9, 2024 Meanwhile, Uttarakhand DGP Abhinav Kumar said that action under the National Security Act (NSA) will be taken against the unruly elements who attacked the police and indulged in arson and vandalism at the Banbhoolpura police station. He said that the situation has been brought under control with the imposition of curfew, but the efforts are on to restore normalcy in the town within the next 24 hours. He said that he held a meeting with the district officials and visited the hospitals and the police station to assess the situation. The violence in Haldwani erupted after the demolition of an illegally-built madrasa and a place for offering namaz inside its premises in Malik ka Bageecha area in the Muslim-dominated Banbhoolpura locality. Two people were killed and three critically injured in the clashes. A high alert has been sounded across the state following the incident. On January 24, the BJP government announced Bharat Ratna for Karpoori Thakur, whom Bihar CM Nitish Kumar hails among his idols. Four days later on January 28, Kumar left the Congress-RJD alliance and joined the BJP leading to the formation of the NDA government in the state. Before that, there were speculations that Nitish Kumar may switch sides once again and it fructified after the announcement of the Bharat Ratna. Similarly, there have been reports that Rashtriya Lok Dal leader Jayant Chaudhary may leave Akhilesh Yadav and join the BJP ahead of the Lok Sabha polls in 2024. In a surprising event, the Modi government today announced Bharat Ratna for former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh. Chaudhary Charan Singh was grandfather of Jayant. Reacting to the announcement, Jayant Chaudhary said, 'Dil Jeet liya'. He even reply quoted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's X post. With this, Jayant Chaudhary has indicated that while PM Modi has won his heart, his party may soon join hands with the BJP. The honour to former PM Charan Singh will also send a message to RLD cadre that the Modi government has given highest respect to their leader. #WATCH | Chaudhary Charan Singh, PV Narasimha Rao Garu and M S Swaminathan conferred with the Bharat Ratna. RLD chief Jayant Chaudhary says, "It is a big day & an emotional moment for me. I want to thank the President, government & PM Modi because this was part of his pic.twitter.com/NfMaaprMZT ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2024 Reacting to media queries of joining BJP, Jayant Chaudhary said that how can he deny this now. #WATCH | When asked if he is ready to join hands with BJP-NDA, RLD chief Jayant Chaudhary says, "Koi kasar rehti hai? Aaj main kis muh se inkaar karoon aapke sawalon ko." pic.twitter.com/6dTo21wzk6 February 9, 2024 It's already being reported that the RLD is in talks with the BJP. The saffron party has reportedly offered two Lok Sabah seats and one Rajya Sabha seat to the RLD and Jayant is likely to accept the offer. Akhilesh Yadav has offered 7 seats to Jayant. As per political analysts, the winning probability of the anti-BJP alliance is low in Uttar Pradesh given multiple factors including BJP's welfare schemes and the Ram Temple inauguration. Thus, RLD which has no Lok Sabha MP at present, might be looking to save its eroding ground in the coming Lok Sabha polls and may join hands with the BJP. The announcement of the Bharat Ratna for Chaudhary Charan Singh has given Jayant a reason to switch to the BJP and it won't be surprising if he joins the saffron brigade in the coming days. The BJP has been trying to woo the parties which are part of Congress-led Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA). It has already got Nitish Kumar's JDU back in the NDA fold in Bihar and the talks are on with Telugu Desam Party, YSCRP and RLD among other parties. If these alliances materialises as per BJP's wish, it will help the saffron party achief its mission of winning 400 seats in the Lok Sabha elections 2024. New Delhi: Snapchat users experienced a brief outage as they encountered difficulties sending messages and snaps to their friends. The glitch occurred just days after the Groww app faced similar issues. However, the disruption lasted only a few hours, with the app reportedly back in working order by 1:40 pm. According to reports from the outage-detecting platform 'Downdetector,' a significant portion of Snapchat's user base, estimated at around 80 percent, encountered problems with the application during the outage. (Also Read: From Investment To Income: A Rs 5-7 Lakh Investment In This Business Idea Could Yield Rs 1.5 Lakh Monthly Returns) Additionally, approximately 15 percent of users faced issues with uploading content, while 4 percent reported problems with accessing the website. (Also Read: 'Return To Office Or...': TCS Issues Final Warning To Employees Doing Work From Home) In response to the outage, social media users took to various platforms to share their thoughts, memes, and trolls, mocking the platform's technical difficulties. One user humorously speculated, "Yesterday, Snapchat fired many of their employees. Today, Snapchat is down. The reason behind that could be a fired employee pushed the wrong code into production." Donald Trump secured victory in Nevada's Republican presidential caucuses on Thursday, emerging as the sole major candidate in the competition. The caucuses in Nevada represent the only contest in the state that holds significance in the GOP nomination process. Notably, former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley chose to abstain from participating, citing what she perceived as an unjust process favouring Trump. Instead, she opted to run in Nevada's symbolic state-run presidential primary held on Tuesday, where she ended up trailing behind the "none of these candidates" choice. Trump's triumph in Nevada grants him all 26 of the state's delegates. To officially secure the party's nomination, he needs to amass a total of 1,215 delegates, a goal he could potentially achieve by March. However, the way ahead is not easy for Trump. Yesterday, the US Supreme Court commenced its deliberation on a momentous challenge pertaining to former President Donald Trump's eligibility to pursue the Republican presidential nomination under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment. This challenge stems from his actions surrounding the January 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol. This marks the inaugural occasion on which the Supreme Court is tasked with evaluating the standing of a presidential candidate, including Trump, based on the "insurrection" clause within the 14th Amendment. It represents one of the most significant presidential election cases to be heard by the high court since the year 2000, when it confirmed the election of President George W. Bush over Al Gore. The origin of this landmark case traces back to September in Colorado, where six Republican and unaffiliated voters, represented by the watchdog group Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), initiated a challenge against Trump and Secretary of State Jena Griswold. Griswold, a Democrat, oversees the primary election process in the state. The counting of votes is underway in Pakistan for the country's national and provincial elections. The polls did not bring good news for Nawaz Sharif who is said to have the backing of the Pakistani army. While Sharif was expecting a win, in an unexpected turn of events, independent candidates receiving support from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) appeared to be gaining momentum in the initial results released late on Thursday, creating ripples throughout the political landscape. This surprising development unfolded despite the continued imprisonment of the party's founder, Imran Khan, and amid concerns about an uneven playing field. The situation is such that Nawaz Sharif, who contested two seats - Lahore and Mansehra - faced defeat from one of them. Sharif won the Lahore seat but lost to PTI-backed independent candidate Yasmin Rashid from the Mansehra seat. Despite assurances from the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) regarding the timely disclosure of election results, not a single constituency's outcome was announced by 2 o'clock, causing frustration and heightened uncertainty in an already tense political environment. The results were to be declared by 2 am but the same has not been achieved even by 1 pm today. Since the counting was halted, PTI alleged rigging of votes in favour of PML-N. However, in the early hours of Friday, as a limited number of results started to emerge, supporters of all PTI-backed independent candidates gathered at the partys central secretariat, initiating celebrations labelled as victory. PTI Chairman Gauhar Khan asserted that their candidates were leading on 150 National Assembly seats. Sharif's PML-N and Bilawal Bhutto's Pakistan People's Party were leading on 47 seats each. These projections came as a shock for the party of three-time former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. However, similar to the ECP, the PML-N also maintained a reserved stance without making any public statements. Voters will elect 266 candidates to the Pakistan National Assembly, who will later, by a majority vote, elect the next prime minister. New Delhi: Nawaz Sharif, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan, on Friday appealed to other political parties to come together and form a stable coalition government to restore Pakistan, saying all institutions should cooperate to help the country overcome its challenges. Sharif, who served as the premier three times, spoke to his supporters of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) at the partys headquarters in Lahore. He said his party respects the verdict of all parties, including the independent candidates who are backed by the imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khans party. He said it was necessary for all the political parties to join hands and form a government to bring Pakistan out of its troubles. "We cannot keep having elections, he said. We were all together yesterday but we did not speak to you because the results were not out. "We are asking everyone today to join us in rebuilding this wounded Pakistan, he said as the country seemed to be heading towards a hung parliament. Our only goal is a prosperous Pakistan and you know what we have done in the past. He said all the institutions should work together to help Pakistan get out of this crisis. Everyone should sit in peace and harmony and take Pakistan out of the difficulties, he said. Sharif said he has assigned his younger brother and PML-N president Shehbaz Sharif to contact the Pakistan Peoples Partys Asif Ali Zardari, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) chief Fazlur Rehman and Muttahida Qaumi Movements Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui to form a coalition government. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) data shows that results of 139 constituencies have been announced, which include 55 independents (mostly supported by PTI), PML-N 43, PPP 35 and other seats going to smaller parties. The counting of votes is still ongoing after Thursdays general election which was tainted by accusations of rigging, occasional violence and a nationwide mobile phone blackout. To form a government, a party must secure 133 seats out of 265 in the National Assembly. One seats election was delayed after the death of a candidate. Overall, 169 seats are required to obtain a simple majority out of its total 336 seats, which include the reserved seats for women and minorities. Sharif Has Pak Army's Blessing The Pakistan Army has a strong influence on the countrys politics and has been accused of tampering with elections to favour its preferred candidates. In 2018, the Pakistan Army effectively selected Imran Khan, a former cricketer-turned-politician, to replace Nawaz Sharif as the head of the PML(N). Imran Khan became the prime minister after Nawaz Sharif was convicted, but Nawaz Sharif was later allowed to leave the country and returned in October 2023, when suddenly all the charges against him were dropped. Experts have suggested that Nawaz Sharif has the armys backing this time. In the Pakistan election 2024, Pakistan Army chief general Asim Munir will consolidate his power over the political leadership of the country. The elections are significant as for the first time in Pakistans history, a civilian leader (Imran Khan) posed a threat to the armys supremacy. Former Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria told news agency ANI that the elections are the most rigged and the most predictable, because the army is meddling with the process to get the government it wants. He said that it is widely anticipated that Nawaz Sharif and his PML-N party will be the armys pick. He said that this is quite accurate. In Pakistan, the counting of votes is underway after a midnight drama when the counting was halted at a time when Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf backed independent candidates are leading on over 154 seats as claimed by the party leaders. While Nawaz Sharif-led PML-N was leading at around 50 seats, their numbers increased after the counter restarted and hence the PTI alleged manipulation of votes in favour of Nawaz. While PML-N and Bilawal Bhutto's PPP are leading on around 47 seats each as per trends, PTI has claimed that those trying to play with public mandate won't succeed. Former Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif who is also Nawaz Sharif's brother won from the Lahore seat. The main contests are being seen between candidates backed by jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan, whose Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party won the last national election, and the PML-N of Sharif, who is being backed by the powerful military. With counting continuing today, a clear picture was likely to emerge only later in the day. A party needs 133 seats in parliament for a simple majority and if the trends are to be believed, Imran Khan may cause an upset. Sharif, considered by many observers to be a strong candidate, dismissed talk of an unclear result. There was a significant deployment of troops across the country, particularly at polling stations, to ensure security during an election. The temporary closure of borders with Iran and Afghanistan suggests a comprehensive effort to maintain stability. Unfortunately, despite these measures, there were tragic incidents involving bomb blasts, grenade attacks, and shootings by militants, resulting in the loss of lives, including two children. The specific incidents mentioned include the killing of five police officers in a bomb blast and firing on a patrol in the Kulachi area of Dera Ismail Khan district in the northwest. Additionally, two children lost their lives in a blast outside a women's polling station in Balochistan. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also expressed concern about the violence and the suspension of mobile communications services, his spokesperson said in an e-mailed statement. Flash The U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday began to hear former President Donald Trump's eligibility case, with the decision poised to set guidelines nationwide. Early January, the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to take up whether Trump can be disqualified from appearing on Colorado's primary ballot after a ruling by the Colorado Supreme Court removed him from the state's 2024 presidential primary ballot, citing the U.S. Constitution's "insurrection clause." The Colorado ruling cited the Section 3 of the 14th Amendment to the Constitution, which prohibits individuals who have engaged in insurrection from holding public office. Trump's legal team is urging the justices to weigh several matters, such as whether the provision applies to Trump as a former president, whether he was involved in insurrection, and whether state and federal courts have the authority to enforce Section 3 without legislative action from Congress. Additionally, they contend that the provision cannot be invoked to bar Trump from the ballot because Section 3 solely prohibits someone from holding office, not from running as a candidate or being elected. The U.S. Supreme Court is expected to expedite the review of Trump's appeal on his eligibility, with a decision likely to be announced a few days or weeks after the arguments. Highlighting his recent victories in the Iowa and New Hampshire primaries, the former president's lawyers cautioned the justices about the ramifications of disqualifying Trump, asserting that it would lead to disorder and confusion. Trump leads the Republican primary race, and in some simulations, he is even ahead against Democratic contenders, including the incumbent President Joe Biden. Analysts believe that the Supreme Court's ruling on Trump's appeal regarding his candidacy qualifications may influence the direction or even the outcome of this year's election. A report of shots fired Feb. 6 near an elementary school in Holmen could result in criminal charges, according to the Holmen Police Department. Police responded to an emergency call shortly after 3:30 p.m. at Prairie View Elementary School, where four to five gunshots were heard coming from south of the school. The shots rang out within minutes of the schools 3:40 p.m. dismissal time. Within minutes of arrival, police concluded there was no active shooting threat at the school. There were no threats made to the school, and no active concerns for the safety of students, staff or area residents, Holmen police Lt. Cody Spears said a press release. Police later determined that a person at an Old County Road residence had been shooting at a berm in his backyard. The residence is located in the town of Holland, outside the village of Holmen limits. The case was transferred to the La Crosse County Sheriffs Office, which referred the shooter to the La Crosse County district attorney for possible charges. The name of the possible suspect has not been released. A 27-year-old Trempealeau man will spend time in federal prison for his role in an April 25, 2023, gun store robbery in La Crosse County. Nehemiah Sample was sentenced to two years in federal prison by U.S. District Court Judge William M. Conley for stealing firearms from The Smoking Gun, a federal firearms licensee in Rockland. Sample entered a guilty plea Oct. 31. According to federal prosecutors, Sample and two other men broke into the gun store and stole 41 firearms. Sample reportedly fled an attempted traffic stop later that day. The vehicle was found abandoned three hours later in La Crosse with three of the stolen handguns in a bag on the backseat. Sample fled to Arkansas, where he was reportedly found in Lake Village trying to sell firearms from his car. When Lake Village officers attempted to arrest Sample, he fled into a scrapyard. He was eventually taken into custody, and officers found one handgun on him, one abandoned weapon in the scrap yard and five other firearms in his vehicle. All had been stolen from the Rockland gun store. At sentencing, Conley said that Samples decision to sell the stolen guns was an aggravating factor that influenced the sentencing decision. Co-defendant Mackey K. Drake of La Crosse pleaded guilty in federal court to possessing firearms as a felon Jan. 17. He is scheduled for sentencing April 3. The federal case against 19-year-old co-defendant Robert E. Benson of La Crosse is still pending. Charges in La Crosse County against all three defendants have been dropped. Sample still faces charges in La Crosse County for burglary and theft. He has a plea hearing set for Feb. 19. A 38-year-old Sparta man is being held in the Monroe County Jail on a $50,000 cash bond after he allegedly led police on a drunken car chase Feb. 3. Mark A. Topness was charged in Monroe County Circuit Court with felony counts of sixth-offense drunken driving, eluding an officer and bail jumping (three counts) and misdemeanor counts of resisting an officer and disorderly conduct. Topness also faces eight traffic citations, including reckless driving, running a stop sign and operating after suspension. According to the criminal complaint, police responded shortly after 10 p.m. to a domestic incident at a Morse Street address in Sparta. Topness wasnt at the residence when police arrived. Police located Topness a short time later parked in a commercial lot on South Water Street. The complaint says an officer approached Topness and told him he was investigating a domestic incident. Topness reportedly told police he did nothing wrong. The officer reported that Topness smelled of intoxicants and had slurred speech. The officer asked Topness to step outside the vehicle and tell his side of the story. Topness reportedly responded by placing the vehicle in reverse and abruptly moving back 10 yards. The complaint says Topness told the officer I dont abide by your law before accelerating from the parking lot. The vehicle went south on Ideal Road and reportedly reached a speed of 80 mph. Police initiated a pursuit. The complaint says Topness turned the vehicles lights on and off as part of his effort to elude police. He then drove two miles outside the city on Jasper Avenue before heading down a steep embankment. He drove through the ditch for about 50 yards but was unable to return to the roadway. Topness exited the vehicle and was ordered by police to surrender. Topness re-entered the vehicle and drove through a cornfield before entering Javelin Avenue. Topness stopped the vehicle at Highway 71, turned and headed toward a squad car. Topness then brought the vehicle to a stop. An officer gave multiple commands for Topness to surrender. He reportedly told the officer, Shoot me. Shoot me. Tase me. God (expletive) youre lucky I dont kill you. He also allegedly threatened to kill another officers whole family. Police handcuffed Topness and transported him to jail. The complaint says police needed to employ a Taser to complete the arrest. Police located a 750 ml bottle of whiskey in Topness vehicle that was two-thirds empty. Topness has an initial court appearance set for March 18. Chippewa Falls school district superintendent Jeff Holmes said Thursday that a middle school student accused of making threats against the lives of classmates is no longer attending public schools in Chippewa Falls. I am able to let families know the following, the individual in question is not a student in CFAUSD. Please stay tuned for more information surrounding this matter, Holmes states in an email to the Chippewa Herald on Thursday. There are good reasons that information was not made public by the school district or law enforcement in October, he states. According to a release by Chippewa Falls Police Chief Matthew Kelm on Thursday, the departments threat assessment determined that the community was not in immediate jeopardy from the individual at that time. Kelm said: No statement was made to the public by the CFPD at that time as there did not appear to be an imminent public safety danger. This case was also sent to Chippewa County Juvenile Intake and the Chippewa County Department of Human Services for their review and follow-up. In an email sent to the Chippewa Herald, Holmes states a lot of factors come into play when schools release information that affects staff and student safety. This is often a complex process that requires care and discretion, he writes. Our goal is to balance our commitment to transparency with student privacy rights and maintaining the integrity of ongoing investigations or situations. On Wednesday, it was revealed that a Chippewa Falls Middle School students internet searches triggered a police investigation into a serious threat of violence in October 2023. Parents of students at the school first learned about the incident Tuesday. Classmates threatened According to a redacted police report first reported by Louder with Crowder, while investigating the online searches made by the student, officers discovered a paper notebook in which the student said they took inspiration from the Columbine school shootings, said they hated girls who objectified themselves and that buying PVC pipe, duct tape, steel wool and nine-volt batteries was the first stage in their plan. I plan to use this to kill multiple students at my school. This will be the next Columbine. I will kill the most people I can by using explosives that I make myself, the students notebook continued. All the problems that I face will be worth it after I kill the (expletive) jocks and those (expletive) preppy (expletive) girls. They need to die, and then they will go burn in hell. Chippewa Falls Area Unified School District Superintendent Jeff Holmes and Chippewa Falls Middle School principal Derrick Kunsman sent a letter to parents across the district Feb. 6 acknowledging the incident occurred in October. I need to state clearly and unequivocally that the District determined our students were not in jeopardy at any time during these events, Kunsman stated. The Chippewa Herald reached out to Kunsman for comment but did not immediately receive a reply. It was not clear when the student stopped attending the Chippewa Falls school district, or whether the departure was due to a disciplinary action taken by the district related to the October incident. Holmes assured parents and staff in a message sent Wednesday that the district took the events seriously, but was limited in the amount of information it can share. If a situation warrants informing a broader audience, we will provide updates to our constituents as we have always done, he writes. Manifesto discovered Law enforcement first learned of the students alleged activities through internet searches that included some which were flagged by a computer program installed on the districts Chromebooks. According to a redacted police report from Nov. 1, based on the investigation after the internet searches were flagged, school staff discovered a manifesto for a school threat. After reviewing the manifesto, school officials told police they believed this was a serious threat. The manifesto included detailed plans on how the student intended to massacre classmates at the school. It is not clear whether any charges have been filed in juvenile court as a result of the investigation. The Herald requested an unredacted version of the police report Wednesday but has yet to receive it. At its next meeting Feb. 27, the school board is expected to discuss how its policies and state statutes impact security measures in the district. Specifically, it will revolve around school threat situations and information sharing, Holmes said in his email to the Chippewa Herald. District responds Parents and community members have been critical of the districts response to the October incident and questioned why they were not told about the situation. District officials said they maintained an ongoing dialogue with guidance counselors and supervising teachers and collaborated on handling the situation. The District also consulted with local law enforcement officials and maintained a police presence as well. The situation was identified and monitored, student safety was accounted for, the District intervened and the matter was resolved without incident, Holmes states. The district determined the incident did not rise to the level of requiring a public announcement and that making an announcement might be inflammatory, generating new issues concerning staff and student safety. Public response In a release Thursday, Holmes states false and inaccurate information has been spread about the incident, which supports the districts initial reaction to be discreet with information about the situation. Covering up information has never been our goal and suggesting that we treat sensitive student behavior and disciplinary situations as an opportunity for secrecy is, quite simply, false, he writes. Holmes refers to some media outlets treatment of the situation as unfortunate and irresponsible, writing that certain quasi-media personalities sensationalize these situations. He says that some media outlets comments are not accurate and potentially dangerous saying it is manipulative beyond measure and the citizens of our district and certainly the faculty and administration that addressed this issue successfully deserve better. In a note sent to parents Wednesday, Holmes states, We are sorry that the law does not allow us to provide more information than we do when commentators spin events in our district just to frighten them. Holmes states that ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all students remains our top priority. UW-Madison plans to add at least 120 new roles in the next three to five years to accelerate the hiring of faculty in artificial intelligence and other high-demand areas. Its a level of faculty growth that would have progressed naturally over the next decade, UW-Madison Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin said, but an increase in university enrollment, which topped 50,000 students last fall, makes it necessary to be more aggressive in hiring. The initiative is titled Wisconsin Research, Innovation and Scholarly Excellence, or RISE. UW-Madison will start with 50 new faculty in artificial intelligence as soon this spring but wont stop there: Mnookin said the university hopes to announce other focuses of the initiative in the coming months. The university is launching RISE with artificial intelligence, though, as it felt like the obvious choice, Mnookin said. There are so many ways in which it is likely to change an awful lot about what all of us do, Mnookin said. And its an area where we have pretty substantial existing strengths on which to build. RISE, anticipated to initially cost $30 million for the artificial intelligence faculty cohort, will be paid through a mix of tuition dollars, philanthropic support and anticipated support from the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation. The full cost of the initiative hasnt been determined, UW-Madison spokesperson John Lucas said. RISE hiring will be an addition to UW-Madisons traditional faculty hiring processes, which brings in 130 new people a year, either as successors for retirees or resignations, or in new roles. The RISE hiring initiative represents a 40% increase in hiring over normal levels. RISE faculty will be spread across campus academic units, from computer science to law and engineering, as multiple disciplines are being affected by artificial intelligence, UW-Madison Provost Charles Isbell said. (Artificial intelligence has) affected everything, medicine to journalism ... and everything that we do, so its new in that way, said Isbell, who has spent his research career on human-based machine learning. The kind of people were looking for, what they need is not just the knowledge in a discipline, not just the knowledge in AI, but they need to understand what it means to work across and have these conversations across disciplines, which arent easy. Through the RISE initiative, UW-Madison also hopes to increase its standing with research funding among the nations top universities. Right now, UW-Madison sits as eighth among 900 public and private universities, with $1.5 billion in annual research expenditures, with a goal to be sixth. During the 2022 fiscal year, UW-Madison added $143 million in expenditures and closed the gap between itself and University of California, San Diego by $35 million over the two prior fiscal years. As part of the Universities of Wisconsins workforce plan, artificial intelligence programming is set to expand at multiple universities. The workforce development plan has yet to be approved by the state Legislatures Joint Finance Committee, which withheld $32 million from the UW systems budget over the systems diversity, equity and inclusion programming. UW-Parkside plans to create a Center for AI and Business and UW-Stout will establish a cluster hire, where faculty are hired as a group, to integrate artificial intelligence into five of its departments. Other campuses, including UW-Eau Claire, UW-Green Bay and UW-Whitewater, would also offer new degrees in artificial intelligence, robotic automation or both. Xi extends Spring Festival greetings to all Chinese, urging efforts to write new chapter in advancing Chinese modernization Xinhua) 08:45, February 09, 2024 Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, delivers a speech at a Spring Festival reception at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 8, 2024. The CPC Central Committee and the State Council held the reception on Thursday in Beijing. (Xinhua/Ju Peng) BEIJING, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping, on behalf of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and the State Council, extended Spring Festival greetings to all Chinese Thursday at a reception in Beijing. Xi, also general secretary of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, delivered a speech at the gathering at the Great Hall of the People, greeting Chinese people of all ethnic groups, compatriots in Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, and overseas Chinese. The outgoing Year of the Rabbit marked the beginning of the full implementation of the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress on all fronts, Xi said, noting that the country faced an exceptionally complicated international environment and arduous tasks of reform, development, and maintaining stability. "We pooled strength from Chinese modernization, kept in mind both domestic and international imperatives, overcame multiple difficulties and challenges, and made solid progress on a new journey toward building China into a modern socialist country in all respects," Xi said. Li Qiang presided over the reception. Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi and Han Zheng were also present at the event. Over the past year, China adhered to the general principle of seeking progress while maintaining stability and promoted economic recovery, Xi said. Listing the progress made, Xi said the country's total grain output reached a new high, employment and prices have been kept generally stable, and breakthroughs were made in scientific and technological innovation. Reform and opening up continued to deepen in China, a new round of reform of Party and state institutions has been basically completed, the country's ecological environment continued to improve, and new steps have been taken on modernizing national defense and the armed forces, he said. Xi also praised deepened efforts on exercising full and rigorous Party self-governance and fighting corruption. By putting the people first, authorities worked hard to address the pressing difficulties and problems that concerned people most, and made all-out efforts in responding to natural disasters and advancing post-disaster recovery and reconstruction, thus maintaining overall social stability, Xi said. "We actively support Hong Kong and Macao in better integrating into the overall situation of national development, firmly oppose separatist acts of 'Taiwan independence' and interference by external forces, and vigorously defend our country's sovereignty, security and development interests," Xi said. Lauding China's solid efforts on advancing major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics, Xi said the country has added certainty and positive energy to a world of change and disorder. Xi said that looking back at all the hard work over the past year, we have more deeply realized that building a strong country and realizing national rejuvenation on all fronts through a Chinese path to modernization is not only a bright road for the Chinese people to pursue a better and happy life, but also a just way to promote world peace and development. Xi pointed out that the year 2024 marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, and is a key year for achieving the goals and tasks in the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025). He stressed the need to adhere to the general tone of the work that seeks progress while maintaining stability, effectively enhance economic vitality, prevent and resolve risks, improve social expectations, consolidate and enhance the positive trend of economic recovery, continue to improve people's livelihood and well-being, as well as maintain overall social harmony and stability. Underscoring the need to deepen reform across the board, Xi said efforts must be made to encourage entrepreneurship and creativity among all members of society, injecting great vigor into Chinese modernization. As the totem of the Chinese nation, dragon is deemed strong, fearless and benevolent, Xi noted. Xi highlighted that dragon not only embodies the spirit of ceaselessly pursuing self-improvement, hard work and enterprise of the Chinese nation for 5,000 years, but also demonstrates the determination and aspiration of hundreds of millions of Chinese people to build China into a strong country and realize national rejuvenation. Xi expressed the hope that in the Year of the Dragon, all Chinese people will pioneer and forge ahead with great endeavor and dedication, collectively writing a new chapter in advancing Chinese modernization. This year's Spring Festival, or the Chinese Lunar New Year, falls on Feb. 10. Party and state leaders Xi Jinping, Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi and Han Zheng attend a Spring Festival reception at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 8, 2024. The CPC Central Committee and the State Council held the reception on Thursday in Beijing. (Xinhua/Shen Hong) Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, gestures as he attends a Spring Festival reception at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 8, 2024. The CPC Central Committee and the State Council held the reception on Thursday in Beijing. (Xinhua/Ju Peng) Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, delivers a speech at a Spring Festival reception at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 8, 2024. The CPC Central Committee and the State Council held the reception on Thursday in Beijing. (Xinhua/Shen Hong) (Web editor: Cai Hairuo, Zhong Wenxing) On 8 February volunteer search collectives in Mexico condemned the killing of activistin the city of Tecate, Baja California state. End of preview - This article contains approximately 399 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options On 8 February Haitis prime minister,, gave a national address in which he called on the country to unite, saying one transition cannot lead to another transition. End of preview - This article contains approximately 390 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options On 8 February Argentinas government led by Presidentannounced the discontinuation of a public transport subsidy fund for provincial governments. End of preview - This article contains approximately 391 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options Old sponges from deep in the Caribbean Sea are causing some researchers to think human-caused climate change began sooner than scientists have thought. But, if a recent study is correct, world temperatures are increasing faster than United Nations estimates suggest. The researchers from American and Australian universities published their sponge findings recently in Nature Climate Change. They said, if their findings are correct, the world has already gone past a temperature limit set by international negotiators. Negotiators of the Paris Agreement on climate change set 1.5 degrees Celsius as a limit for the increase of the worlds temperature from pre-industrial times. Pre-industrial times are from about 1850 to 1900. But the American and Australian researchers said that the world hit a 1.7-degree Celsius increase in 2020. The scientists looked at six special sponges that are known to live hundreds of years. They examined the sponges growth records to find very small levels of the elements calcium and strontium. The scientists said that the amount of calcium and strontium changes, depending on the water temperature. Malcolm McCulloch is an ocean scientist at the University of Western Australia. He was the lead writer of the study. McCulloch noted that the currently accepted temperature estimates for the 1850-1900 period were too high. That means that present-day temperature increases are larger and the Earth's temperature is warming faster than scientists have believed. He said, We have a decade less than we thought. In the past several years, many scientists have noted that there seems to be more extreme weather than they had expected. One explanation would be that the Earth is warming faster than scientists had first believed, said Amos Winter. Winter helped write the study. He is an ocean scientist at Indiana State University. He said the study supports the theory that climate change is quickening. Former top NASA scientist James Hansen also has proposed that theory. Sponges get water flowing from all over them so they can record a larger area of environmental change, Winter and McCulloch said. The research team examined sponges that lived in a special mixed area of the ocean that is 33 to 91 meters deep. The researchers were able to estimate nearly the exact atmospheric temperature of the Earth from the amount of calcium and strontium in the deep-sea sponges. Their results were different from the scientifically accepted temperature estimates used by the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). The IPCC temperature estimates are the basis for the U.N. temperature goals. The Nature Climate Change study finds that the mid-1800s were about half a degree Celsius cooler than believed. It also found that warming from heat-trapping gases started about 80 years earlier than the measurements the IPCC uses. IPCC numbers show warming started just after 1900. McCulloch and Winter said it makes sense that the warming started earlier than the IPCC stated because by the mid-1800s industries had begun polluting the air with carbon dioxide. For pre-industrial temperatures, the IPCC and most scientists use data that came from ships whose crews would take the temperature of water near the surface. Some of the measurements could change based on how the collection was done. The researchers said sponges provide better information because of the way they store chemical elements in their skeletons. When waters are warmer, there is more of the element strontium and less of the mineral calcium, Winter said. University of Pennsylvania climate scientist Michael Mann, who was not part of the study, has thought warming started before the IPCC said it did. But he doubted the studys findings. In my view it begs credulity to claim that the instrumental record is wrong based on paleo-sponges from one region of the world, Mann said. But Winter and McCulloch have defended their use of sponges to identify world temperature change. They said, except for the 1800s, their temperature findings based on sponges follow global records from other devices. These include scientific instruments and measurements from things like coral, ice, and tree rings. Princeton University climate scientist Michael Oppenheimer was not part of the sponge study either. He said, even if the McCulloch team is right, it should not change warnings from scientists. He said that the danger level is not tied to the exact value of preindustrial temperatures. McCulloch added that the only way to stop this is to reduce emissions. Urgently. Most Urgently. Im Gena Bennett. And Im Gregory Stachel. Gregory Stachel adapted this Associated Press story by Seth Borenstein for VOA Learning English. _______________________________________________ Words in This Story sponge n. a type of sea animal from which natural sponges are made decade n. a period of 10 years beg v. to cause someone to ask a specified question as a reaction or response credulity n. ability or willingness to believe something paleo- prefix connected with ancient times region n. a part of a country or of the world that is different or separate from other parts in some way emission n. a gas, such as carbon dioxide, that is sent out or produced by a process like burning United States Senator Joe McCarthy has accused more than 200 staff in the State Department of being members of the Communist Party. He made the startling allegation in a public speech in Wheeling, West Virginia, saying the State Department was infested with communists and brandished a sheet of paper which purportedly contained the traitors names. Senator McCarthy told the Ohio county womens Republican Club that Secretary of State Dean Acheson knew the names of 205 people who were in his words still working in and shaping the policy of the State Department. His comments brought an immediate denial from Lincoln White, press officer at the State Department. Mr White said: If he is correctly quoted, his allegation that the Secretary of State has a list of 205 Communist Party members who are working and shaping policy in the State Department is entirely without foundation. We know of no Communist Party members in the department and if we find any they will be summarily dismissed. We did not furnish Senator McCarthy with any such list and we would be interested in seeing his list. Senator McCarthy has made his claims against a background of growing anti-Communist feeling. Alger Hiss, a former senior public servant, was convicted and jailed last month of perjury after being accused of being an accomplice to a self-confessed former member of an underground Communist network. Senator McCarthys speech also coincides with the collapse of the Kuomintang regime in China and the establishment there of a Communist government, adding to American fears about the global spread of Communism. Mr McCarthy was defeated for the Republican nomination for the Senate in 1944 but two years later was able to win the Republication nomination away from veteran Senator, Robert La Follette. In the election he beat his Democrat opponent after a campaign of continuous misrepresentation of Professor Howard McMurray as a Communist sympathiser. Courtesy BBC News In context Two days after this initial outburst, Senator Joe McCarthy wrote to President Harry Truman saying he had been able to compile a list of 57 Communists. On 20 February he delivered a six hour speech to Congress in which he referred to 81 individuals not by name but nevertheless identifiable who he said were members of the Communist Party or loyal to it. By the time an investigating sub-committee was set up to look into his claims, his list of communists had dwindled to 10 names. [] His claims were not substantiated, but many lost their jobs or reputations. [] His Communist witch-hunt did win him popular support. At its height, 25 states passed legislation outlawing communist organisations. The conviction in March 1951 of Julius and Ethel Rosenberg for passing atomic secrets to the Russians also helped fuel his campaign. His downfall came when he turned his attentions to the US Army. His methods were finally exposed to the public during a televised cross-examination of army personnel following further unsubstantiated allegations. In 1954 he was censured by the Senate committee. His health declined through heavy drinking and he died in 1957. Better planning, localization, and an annual calendar for local concerts is necessary to turn Macaus bid into a city of shows more international and with world-level artists, the Central District Community Advisory Board member, Antonio Monteiro, recently said during the meeting of the Central District Community Advisory Board. The member noted the plans recently unveiled by the Municipal Affairs Bureau for the construction of the second phase of the south coast promenade, which is said to include facilities for concerts and other outdoor events. Monteiro said this space will be an important leisure space for both residents and tourists. It should be considered an example of a regional and international outdoor music concert, coinciding with possible cultural and even musical festivals, boosting Macaus economy and tourist image through large-scale shows, in places that do not collide with urban concentration areas. The member mentioned the planned music festivals Rock in Rio and Super Bock Super Rock, scheduled for upcoming seasons, noting that having a well-planned calendar helps to possibly draw the attention of international bands and artists, which in turn will attract international tourists. However, we must rethink the entire tourist structure and capacity, from aviation and structures that welcome tourists en masse, as well as put significant effort into training personnel to master, at least, the English language. We must increase transport such as taxis, buses and light rail, as well as varied services, such as local catering. Monteiro remarked that a bad experience and the sense of a lack of capacity to accommodate this type of activity will certainly lead tourists not to return to Macau, which clashes with the original purpose of attracting and keeping international tourists in Macau for a longer period. Estonia (Antiwar politician Boris Nadezhdin was rejected yesterday as a candidate in next months presidential balloting by Russian election authorities, a strong signal from the Kremlin that it would tolerate no public opposition to the invasion of Ukraine. The move by the Central Election Commission provides an even smoother path for President Vladimir Putin to win a fifth term in power. He faces only token opposition from pro-Kremlin candidates in the March 15-17 vote and is all but certain to win, given his tight control of Russias political system. Nadezhdin, a local legislator in a town near Moscow, had needed to gather at least 100,000 signatures of supporters a requirement that applies to candidates of political parties that are not represented in the Russian parliament. The Central Election Commission declared that more than 9,000 signatures submitted by Nadezhdins campaign were invalid, which was enough to disqualify him. Russias election rules say potential candidates can have no more than 5% of their submitted signatures thrown out. Nadezhdin, 60, has openly called for a halt to the war in Ukraine and for starting a dialogue with the West. Thousands of Russians lined up across the country last month to sign papers in support of his candidacy, an unusual show of opposition sympathies in the countrys rigidly controlled political landscape. Speaking to officials at the election commission yesterday, Nadezhdin asked them to postpone their decision, but they declined. He said he would appeal his disqualification in court. Its not me standing here, Nadezhdin said. Hundreds of thousands of Russian citizens who put their signatures down for me are behind me. Putin is running as an independent candidate, and his campaign was required to gather at least 300,000 signatures in his support. He was swiftly allowed on the ballot earlier this year, with election officials disqualifying only 91 out of 315,000 that his campaign submitted. Most of the opposition figures who might have challenged Putin have been either imprisoned or exiled abroad, and the vast majority of independent Russian media outlets have been banned. Three other candidates registered to run were nominated by parties represented in parliament and werent required to collect signatures: Nikolai Kharitonov of the Communist Party, Leonid Slutsky of the nationalist Liberal Democratic Party and Vladislav Davankov of the New People Party. The three parties have been largely supportive of the Kremlins policies. Kharitonov ran against Putin in 2004, finishing a distant second. Exiled opposition activists threw their weight behind Nadezhdin last month, urging their supporters to sign his nomination petitions. Putin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has said the Kremlin doesnt view Nadezhdin as a rival. Nadezhdin urged his supporters not to give up despite the setback. One thing happened which many could not believe: citizens sensed the possibility of changes in Russia, he wrote in an online statement. It was you who stood in long lines to declare to the whole world: Russia will be a great and a free country. And I represented each of you today in the auditorium of the Central Election Commission. Nadezhdin is the second antiwar hopeful to be denied a place on the ballot. In December, the election commission refused to certify the candidacy of Yekaterina Duntsova, citing problems such as spelling errors in her paperwork. Duntsova, a journalist and a former legislator from the Tver region north of Moscow, had announced plans last year to challenge Putin. Promoting a vision of a Russia as peaceful, friendly and ready to cooperate with everyone on the principle of respect, she said she wanted to end the fighting in Ukraine swiftly and for Moscow and Kyiv to come to the negotiating table. Abbas Gallyamov, a former Putin speechwriter who became a political analyst, said the decision to keep Nadezhdin off the ballot showed how hollow the support for Putin was. All of Putins mega-popularity, which official sociology constantly broadcasts, all that rally around the national leader that Peskov regularly talks about is, in fact, a highly artificial and unstable structure that does not withstand any contact with reality, he said. DASHA LITVINOVA, TALLINN, MDT/AP To mark the arrival of the Year of the Dragon, Macau is abuzz with multiple festive activities, including the 25th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Macao SAR and the Parade for the Celebration of the Year of the Dragon. The Macao Government Tourism Office is organizing numerous events, and notable events during this festive period also include Chinese New Year Fireworks Displays and the creation of Firecracker and Firework Zones, as well as the Lunar Year Market. Parade for the Celebration of the Year of the Dragon Held on Feb 10 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., the parade will feature parade floats, a giant dragon, and lion dance. Beginning at the Ruins of St. Paul and ending at Sai Van Lake Square, the parade will travel across the city, bringing lively performances to locals and tourists alike. 25th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Macau SAR Parade Scheduled for two different days (Feb 12 and 17), the parade will feature parade floats and performance groups from Macau, mainland China, and Hong Kong. Both parades will start at 8 p.m. and tour around Macaus northern districts, bestowing blessings upon viewers and bringing good fortune for the coming year. Chinese New Year Fireworks Displays Held on Feb 12, 16, and 24 at 9 p.m. by the waterfront near Macau Tower, locals and tourists will marvel at the annual firework displays presented by the Macau Tower at night. Firecracker and Firework Zones Fireworks and firecrackers play an essential role in Lunar New Year Celebrations, as their loud cracking sounds are used to ward off evil spirits. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for residents and tourists, the Macau government has designated two areas for the public to buy and set off fireworks and firecrackersone on the Macau Peninsula and the other in Taipa. Lunar New Year Market Held from Feb 2 to 9, the market will accommodate the important tradition of decorating homes with fresh flowers, potted plants, and red couplets, symbolizing good luck. Public demand is met by a special flower fair in Tap Seac Square during this time. The market also offers an array of other traditional items for Lunar New Year, ranging from toys to decorations and small snacks. Orchestra at the Ruins of St. Paul Against the backdrop of the Ruins of St. Paul, a series of concerts by the Macao Chinese Orchestra and Macao Orchestra will be held to celebrate the New Year. Audiences have the option to attend the concerts in person or online. Concerts will be held on Feb 14, 17, and 24 at 6 and 7 p.m.. Other Events Numerous other events will also take place around Macau during this month, such as the Macau Japanese Spring Festival Contempo, which celebrates Japanese culture and serves as a cultural bridge between Macau and Japan. Another event, the Exhibition of Annual Contemporary Art of China 2022, will also run this month and is the latest presentation of the annual selection of contemporary art from China. Locals and tourists alike are recommended to check out the respective websites of the Municipal Affairs Bureau and Macao Government Tourism Office for more detailed information on upcoming events. Staff reporter Israeli airstrikes killed over a dozen people overnight and into yesterday in Rafah in the Gaza Strip, hours after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected Hamas cease-fire terms and vowed to expand the offensive into the southern Gaza town. More than half of strips population has fled to Rafah, on the mostly sealed border with Egypt, which is also the main entry point for humanitarian aid. Egypt has warned that any ground operation there or mass displacement across the border would undermine its four-decade-old peace treaty with Israel. The overnight strikes killed at least 13 people, including two women and five children, according to the Kuwaiti Hospital, which received the bodies. At the scene of one of the strikes, residents used their cellphone flashlights as they dug through the rubble with pick-axes and their bare hands. I wish we could collect their whole bodies instead of just pieces, said Mohammed Abu Habib, a neighbor who witnessed the strike. Israels four-month-old air and ground offensive among the most destructive in recent history has killed over 27,000 Palestinians, driven most people from their homes and pushed a quarter of the population toward starvation. Netanyahu has said the offensive will continue and expand until total victory over Hamas, which started the war by launching a wide-ranging attack into southern Israel on Oct. 7 in which militants killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took around 250 hostage. Israel has also vowed to bring back the over 100 captives still held by Hamas after most of the rest were freed during a cease-fire in November in exchange for the release of Palestinians imprisoned by Israel. But both of those goals appear increasingly elusive, as Hamas re-emerges in parts of northern Gaza, which was the first target of the offensive and suffered widespread destruction. Israel has only rescued one hostage, while Hamas says several have been killed in airstrikes or failed rescue missions. MDT/AP HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR KUNG HEI FAT CHOI The Year Of the Wood Dragon 2024 will bring new excitement, growth and plenty of opportunities to grab but the natives should stay humble DOWNLOAD PDF CNY 2024 Year of the Dragon RAT Year of Birth 2020, 2008, 1996, 1984, 1972, 1960, 1948, 1936, 1924 Patience and understanding The Rats can expect a year of mixed opportunities and challenges. Career prospects may improve, with new avenues for growth and success. However, it is essential to stay cautious and avoid taking unnecessary risks. Relationships might face some ups and downs, requiring patience and understanding. Health should be a priority, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle is advised. By focusing on stability, adaptability, and careful decision-making, Rats can navigate through the year with resilience and make significant progress toward their goals. LOVE WOR K MONEY HEALTH FAQ 1. Is 2024 a good year for Rats? Yes, 2024 is generally a good year for Rats, especially in the fields of Love and Finance. 2. What is the Lucky color of rats for 2024? Lucky Colors for Rats in 2024 are Green, Blue, and Black. 3. What is the date of Chinese New Year 2024? Chinese New Year starts on 10th February 2024. 4. Which months are lucky for Rats in 2024? Lucky months for Rat in 2024 are May, February, and December. OX Year of Birth 2021, 2009, 1997, 1985, 1973, 1961, 1949, 1937, 1925 Good career prospects Ox natives can anticipate a year of steady progress and positive developments. Career prospects are favorable, with opportunities for growth and recognition. It is important to stay focused and determined, as hard work will yield fruitful results. Relationships will thrive, with improved understanding and harmony. However, it is crucial to strike a balance between work and personal life. Health should be prioritized, and stress management techniques should be adopted. By embracing patience, perseverance, and maintaining a balanced approach, Ox natives can make significant strides toward success and fulfillment in 2024. LOVE WOR K MONEY HEALTH FAQ 1. Is 2024 a good year for Ox? Yes, It is an overall lucky year for Ox especially for Love and Finance. 2. What is the Lucky Color for Oxens in 2024? Lucky Colors for Oxens in 2024 Yellow, White, and Green. 3. What are the Lucky Days for Ox in 2024? Lucky days for Ox in 2024 are the 13th and 27th of every Chinese Lunar month. 4. Which months are lucky for Ox natives in 2024? 7th and 9th of Chinese Lunar Months TIGER Year of Birth 2022, 2010, 1998, 1986, 1974, 1962, 1950, 1938, 1926 An eventful year Tiger individuals can expect a dynamic and eventful year. Career opportunities may arise, and it is important to seize them with confidence and determination. However, caution is advised in decision-making and taking risks. Relationships may face challenges, requiring open communication and understanding. Health should be prioritized, with a focus on maintaining balance and managing stress. By embracing adaptability and resilience, Tigers can navigate through the years ups and downs, making the most of opportunities while ensuring overall well-being and stability. LOVE WOR K MONEY HEALTH FAQ 1. What is the Lucky color for 2024? Apricot Crush is the Lucky color for 2024 signifying nourishment of mind and body. 2. Is 2024 Lucky for Tiger Natives? The Year 2024 is Lucky for Tiger Natives as long as they stop being impulsive. 3. Is 2024 lucky for Dragon natives? The Year of Dragon 2024 will be a year of prosperity and growth. 4. What type of dragon is in 2024? According to Chinese astrology, 2024 is the Year of The Wood Dragon. RABBIT Year of Birth 2023, 2011, 1999, 1987, 1975, 1963, 1951, 1939, 1927 Love is in the air According to the Chinese Horoscope, Rabbit individuals can anticipate a year of steady progress and positive transformations in the Year Of The Wood Dragon 2024. Career prospects are promising, with new opportunities for growth and advancement. It is essential to maintain a balanced approach and avoid being overly impulsive. Relationships will thrive with improved communication and deeper connections. Health should be prioritized, and self-care practices should be incorporated. By embracing patience, flexibility, and taking calculated risks, Rabbits can make significant strides towards personal and professional success in 2024, while enjoying harmonious relationships and overall well-being. FAQ LOVE WOR K MONEY HEALTH FAQ 1.Is 2024 a good year for Rabbits? This year 2024 will be good in the Finance and Health sectors for Rabbit natives. 2. What are the Lucky Colors For Rabbit Natives in 2024? Lucky colors for Rabbit natives in 2024 are Red, Pink, Purple, and Blue. 3. What are the Lucky months for rabbit natives in 2024? Lucky months for Rabbit natives in 2024 are January, March, June, September, and December. 4. What is the luckiest Zodiac for babies in Chinese Horoscopes? The luckiest zodiac for babies in Chinese Horoscopes is Rabbit. DRAGON Year of Birth 2024, 2012, 2000, 1988, 1976, 1964, 1952, 1940, 1928 Avoid overconfidence The Dragons can expect a year of both challenges and opportunities. Career prospects may bring new ventures and advancements, but it is important to stay grounded and avoid overconfidence. Relationships might face some turbulence, requiring patience and compromise. Health should be prioritized, and stress management techniques should be adopted. By embracing flexibility and adaptability, Dragons can navigate through the years ups and downs with resilience. By maintaining a balanced approach and focusing on personal growth, Dragons can overcome obstacles and achieve success in the Year Of The Wood Dragon 2024. LOVE WOR K MONEY HEALTH FAQ 1. Will 2024 be a Good Year For Dragon? Yes, 2024 will be a goodyear for Dragons. 2. What kind of Dragon is in 2024? The Year 2024 will be the year Of The Wood Dragon. 3. What are the zodiac signs compatible For Dragons to marry? The Zodiac signs compatible with Dragons are Rooster, rat, and Monkey. 4. Is Dragon the Luckiest among Chinese Zodiacs? Yes, Dragon is the luckiest among the Chinese Zodiacs. SNAKE Year of Birth 2025, 2013, 2001, 1989, 1977, 1965, 1953, 1941, 1929 Harmony in romance In 2024,Snakes can expect a year of transformation and growth. Career prospects may bring new opportunities and recognition, but it is important to maintain a cautious and strategic approach. Relationships will thrive with increased harmony and understanding. Health should be prioritized, with a focus on self-care and stress management. It is advisable to stay adaptable and flexible in the face of challenges. By embracing change and utilizing their intuitive nature, Snakes can navigate through the Year Of The Wood Dragon 2024 with resilience and make significant progress toward their goals. LOVE WOR K MONEY HEALTH FAQ 1. Will Snake natives enjoy good luck in 2024? The Snake natives can expect a good year in 2024. 2. When is the Chinese New Year starting in 2024? The Chinese New Year starts from the 10th Of February in 2024. 3. Is the Snake zodiac favored by the Dragon? Yes, The Dragons favor Snake natives and both are compatible. 4. What are the Characteristics Of Snakes? Snake natives are wise, intellectual, and self-caring. HORSE Year of Birth 2026, 2014, 2002, 1990, 1978, 1966, 1954, 1942, 1930 Dynamic energy In 2024, Horses can expect a year of dynamic energy and progress. Career prospects may bring new opportunities for growth and advancement. It is important to stay focused and determined, avoid distractions and maintain a strong work ethic. Relationships will flourish with increased understanding and harmony. Health should be prioritized, with a focus on maintaining balance and managing stress. By embracing their natural enthusiasm and adaptability, Horses can navigate through the year with resilience and make significant strides towards their goals, enjoying both personal and professional fulfillment. LOVE WOR K MONEY HEALTH FAQ 1.Is Year Of the Dragon 2024 lucky For horse natives? Yes, The Year 2024 is overall lucky for Horse natives especially for earth Horse. 2. What is the starting date of the Year of The Dragon 2024? The Dragon Year 2024 is starting from 10th February 2024 to 28th January 2025. 3. How many Zodiac Signs are there in Chinese Horoscopes? There are 12 Zodiac Signs in the Chinese Horoscope. 4. Which Chinese Zodiac is considered the richest? The Chinese Zodiac Pig is considered the richest among the 12. SHEEP Year of Birth 2027, 2015, 2003, 1991, 1979, 1967, 1955, 1943, 1931 Relationships will thrive Sheep natives can expect a year of stability and personal growth. Career prospects may bring steady progress and success, but it is important to remain diligent and focused. Relationships will thrive with increased harmony and emotional connection. Health should be prioritized, with self-care practices and stress management techniques adopted. It is advisable to embrace patience and perseverance, as challenges may arise. By maintaining a balanced approach and nurturing their creative and compassionate nature, Sheep can experience a fulfilling and rewarding year in 2024. LOVE WOR K MONEY HEALTH FAQ 1. Which is the next Year of the Sheep in Chinese Horoscopes? The Year 2027 will be the year of the Chinese Sheep. 2. Do Sheeps and Dragons complement Each other? The Wood element of the Dragon supports the Earth element of the Sheep. It brings new opportunities and growth for the Sheep natives. 3. Are the Sheep natives emotional or practical? The Sheep natives are honest, simple, and emotional. 4. Do Sheep natives find success in Love in 2024? Yes, the year 2024 is highly successful and exciting for the Sheep natives with respect to Love and relationship. MONKEY Year of Birth 2028, 2016, 2004, 1992, 1980, 1968, 1956, 1944, 1932 Remain focused Monkey individuals can anticipate a year of dynamic opportunities and challenges. Career prospects may bring exciting ventures and advancements, but it is crucial to remain focused and avoid distractions. Relationships might require patience and open communication to maintain harmony. Health should be prioritized, with a focus on maintaining a balanced lifestyle. It is advisable to embrace flexibility and adaptability to overcome obstacles. By utilizing their resourcefulness and wit, Monkeys can navigate through the year with resilience and make significant progress toward their goals in the Year Of The Wood Dragon 2024. LOVE WOR K MONEY HEALTH FAQ 1. Which signs are the most compatible for love For Monkey natives? The Zodiacs Ox, Dragon, and Rabbit are the most suitable partners for the Monkeys. 2. Is Monkey Husband and Dragon Wife compatible? Yes, this is an excellent match. 3. What are the lucky directions for Monkey natives in 2024? The Lucky directions for Monkey natives are East, SouthEast, and South. 4. Which is the next Monkey Year? The next Monkey Year is 2028 (Earth Monkey). ROOSTER Year of Birth 2029, 2017, 2005, 1993, 1981, 1969, 1957, 1945, 1933 Success and recognition Rooster natives can expect a year of growth and opportunities. Career prospects may bring new avenues for success and recognition, but it is important to maintain a balanced approach and avoid becoming overly critical. Relationships will thrive with improved communication and understanding. Health should be prioritized, with a focus on self-care and stress management. It is advisable to embrace teamwork and collaboration to overcome challenges. By utilizing their organizational skills and determination, Roosters can navigate through the year with resilience and achieve their goals in the Year Of The Wood Dragon 2024. LOVE WOR K MONEY HEALTH FAQ 1. Which signs are most compatible with love for Roosters? The signs Pig and Snake are the moist compatible For Roosters to love and Marry. 2. What are the Personality traits of the Year Of The Rooster? The Rooster natives are observant, hard working, diligent, resourceful, and brave. 3. Which signs are least compatible with Rooster? The rooster is least compatible with the Rabbit , Horse, and Dog. 4. Which is the next Rooster Year? The next rooster Year will be 2029. DOG Year of Birth 2030, 2018, 2006, 1994, 1982, 1970, 1958, 1946, 1934 Expect loyalty in friendship According to the Chinese Horoscope 2024, Dog individuals can expect a year of stability and growth. Career prospects may bring steady progress and new opportunities for advancement. It is important to stay focused and dedicated to achieve success. Relationships will thrive with increased loyalty and trust. Health should be prioritized, with a focus on maintaining a balanced lifestyle and managing stress. It is advisable to embrace teamwork and collaboration to overcome challenges. By utilizing their honesty and integrity, Dogs can navigate through the year with resilience and experience personal and professional fulfillment in 2024. LOVE WOR K MONEY HEALTH FAQ 1. Which signs are most compatible with love for Dog natives? The signs Monkey, Rabbit, Tiger, and Horse are most compatiblewith love for Dogs. 2. What is the enemy of the Dog Chinese Zodiac sign? Dog natives are least compatible with Dragon, goat, and Rooster. 3. What are the flaws of the Chinese Dog Zodiac ? Chinese Dogs have drawbacks like high sensitivity, orthodox, too emotional, and stubborn. 4. Which is the next Dog Year? The next Dog Year is 2023 according to the Chinese calendar. PIG Year of Birth 2031, 2019, 2007, 1995, 1983, 1971, 1959, 1947, 1935 Embrace creativity Pigs can anticipate a year of positive transformations and abundant opportunities. Career prospects may bring new ventures and advancements, with success within reach. Relationships will thrive with increased harmony and deeper connections. Health should be prioritized, with a focus on self-care and maintaining a balanced lifestyle. It is advisable to embrace creativity and adaptability to navigate through challenges. By utilizing their kindness and generosity, Pigs can make significant strides toward their goals and experience a fulfilling and prosperous year in the Year Of The Wood Dragon 2024. LOVE WOR K MONEY HEALTH FAQ 1. Which zodiac Year is the luckiest? The Rat Zodiac year is the luckiest. 2. Which Zodiac signs are least friendly with Pigs? The Chinese Pigs is least compatible with Snakes, Monkeys, and Roosters. 3. Which are the most compatible signs of love with a Chinese Pig? The most compatible signs for Chinese Pig for love are Rabbit, Tiger, and Sheep. 4. Which is the next Pig year? The next Pig Year is 2031. Lawmaker Ron Lam has expressed doubts about the local radio taxis ability to cater to foreign visitors, due to its unreliable location platform and outdated means of communication. In an exclusive interview with the Times, Lan commented on reports of the latest radio taxi app allegedly excluding non-mainland and non-Hong Kong visitors. The MassPlus app only allows registration using cell phone numbers from Macau, Hong Kong or mainland China, potentially hindering visitors not from these regions from using the app to prebook a ride before arriving in Macau. Despite being named MassPlus, the app cannot be found when searching with that name on the Apple App Store. However, a search using the Chinese name yielded better results. Additionally, using Macau taxi as the keywords led to the radio taxi app. After the resumption of normal activities in Macau, the government has been seeking to attract foreign tourists to diversify Macaus source market and alleviate the tourism industrys overreliance on the mainland market. When asked about the lack of options for non-Hong Kong and non-mainland visitors, Lam pointed out that this is not unusual for apps developed in Macau. Lam noted the need for improvements in apps developed for public services, especially as the government aims to attract more foreign visitors. He questioned the ability of foreign visitors to hail a taxi through the app, given the highly unreliable location pinpointing function. In Macau, a taxi driver often needs to call the rider to confirm the pick-up location, Lam said, noting that in other places, the location service is much more reliable. He hinted that local taxi drivers may be unable to communicate over the phone with their foreign customers, who may not speak Cantonese or Putonghua. He expressed disappointment that the app falls short of the general publics expectations for a ride-hailing app. The apps faults indicate a lack of thorough planning, particularly in infrastructure, to realize the governments vision of attracting foreign visitors. Regarding the reliability of location services, Lam suggested that the government release the rights to use a digital map developed in-house. The map is very accurate, with all roads, alleys, buildings and other constructions presented in the correct locations, which will be useful for scenarios such as ride hailing, Lam said. The lawmaker also pointed out that however many taxi licenses the government is willing to issue, there will still be a service gap between peak and off-peak hours, resulting in insufficient taxis in peak times and excessively long lines of empty vehicles at taxi stands during off-peak hours. As such, the lawmaker again called for licensed ride hailing options. Objecting to the governments comment that these cars are unlicensed, the lawmaker suggested the government monitor their operations using the licensing system. Lam commented that these drivers were likely to work on a freelance basis and only operate during the high hours to complement the shortage of taxi services. Yesterday, local taxi fares were raised from MOP19 to MOP21 at the commencement of a ride. Chinese shares rose yesterday as investors appeared to welcome Beijings choice of an industry veteran to head its securities watchdog, in its latest effort to boost confidence in ailing markets. Wu Qing, a former chair of the Shanghai Stock Exchange with a reputation for being tough on market misbehavior, was named chairman and Communist Party chief of the China Securities Regulatory Commission late Wednesday. He replaced Yi Huiman, who presided over months of turmoil as share markets slumped, losing trillions of dollars of value. Chinese stocks still had been trading near five-year lows despite those measures, making buying shares feel like catching a falling knife, Ipek Ozkardeskaya of Swissquote said in a commentary. Investors registered their enthusiasm in online comments, with some saying they expected Wu, whose full name is a homophone for characters meaning ruthless in Chinese, to live up to his nickname of Broker Butcher. Markets in Shanghai and Shenzhen have languished, partly because of heavy selling of property shares following a crackdown on excessive borrowing by developers as defaults among dozens of developers undermined confidence in the governments efforts to revive the economy following the pandemic. Authorities recently have sought to relieve some of the pressure on the real estate market by freeing up financing that might enable developers to finish projects imperiled by their financial woes. Chinas CCTV state television network reported that banks were extending nearly $2.5 billion in loans to 83 real estate projects chosen for support as part of measures to rescue the industry. The shakeup at the CSRC came during a week that has seen wild swings in share prices and despair among investors who have seen their investments evaporate. Chinas leaders may be hoping to turn a new page: markets are due to be closed for a week beginning Friday for the Lunar New Year holiday, allowing the dust to settle. The effort to calm the markets has gained urgency as top officials prepare to gather in Beijing in early March for the annual meeting of the national congress, a time when the Communist Party showcases its accomplishments and sets new financial targets. The ruling party has been exhorting state media and others with influence to promote confidence in the markets and the economy, which is forecast to slow further this year from the 5.2% official growth rate reported for 2023, one of the lowest in decades apart from the years of the pandemic. In further evidence of weakness, the government reported yesterday that consumer prices fell 0.8% in January from a year earlier, the lowest level since September 2009 amid the global financial crisis. In a New Years address yesterday, President Xi Jinping urged fellow leaders to effectively strengthen economic vitality, prevent and resolve risks, improve social expectations, consolidate and enhance the upward trend of economic recovery, continue to improve peoples well-being, and maintain harmony and stability in the overall social situation. Economists say that restoring strong and sustained growth will hinge on reforms needed to make China less reliant on investments in construction and export manufacturing. Prolonged weakness in the property market and share prices has dented consumer confidence, hindering that transition. ELAINE KURTENBACH, BANGKOK, MDT/AP Over the first eight days of the Spring Festival Golden Week, Macau is expected to receive some 120,000 visitors per day on average, the director of the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO), Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes said yesterday. Speaking with the media on the sidelines of the float parade blessing ceremony that will be part of the Lunar New Year celebrations, the MGTO director provided estimates of the anticipated visitor numbers, which represent a drop of around 30% compared to 2019s daily average of 171,702 people per day across the seven-day period. The MGTOs conservative outlook is consistent with previous statements and projections by both MGTO and the Public Security Police Force (PSP). The MGTO previously stated that Macau has been receiving over 100,000 visitors per day on weekends since the start of this year, with the festive season likely to account for a higher number of visitors. Earlier this week, the PSP also said it expected the volume of passengers at border posts to be similar or up by 3% compared to 2019 levels, potentially reaching up to 6 million border crossings (from both locals and tourists) over the ten-day period from February 9 to February 18. Senna Fernandes also noted that the hotel occupancy rate in Macau is likely to exceed 90%, with some hotel room rates potentially higher due to increased demand. Nonetheless, she assured that MGTO is in close contact with industry to prevent excessive price hikes. The MGTO director also called on the owners of commercial establishments to keep stores operating during the Golden Week to benefit from the influx of tourists. This would also prevent tourist disappointment by ensuring that traditional stores remain open. The float parade will continue on the streets on the third day of the new year (February 12) at the Central District and downtown, and in the Northern District area on the eighth day of the new year (February 17). Senna Fernandes also said that the night float is also intended to incentivize tourists to stay longer, promote community tourism, and provide an economic boost. Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape yesterday become the first Pacific leader to address Australias parliament, vowing nothing will come in between our two countries. The nations announced that Australia will spend AU $100 million (US $65.3 million) on Papua New Guineas internal security, including the development of a police recruiting and investigation training facility and a police barracks. The speech, Marapes meeting with Australian counterpart, Anthony Albanese, and the neighbors release of details of a security pact signed in December, come as Pacific nations deal with Chinas growing ambitions. Resource-rich Papua New Guinea has rebuffed overtures from China, which struck a security pact with Solomon Islands in 2022 that caused worry among some in the region. Papua New Guinea, which is in a strategically important part of the South Pacific, struggles with tribal violence and civil unrest and wants to increase its police numbers from 6,000 officers to 26,000. Anger over high unemployment and cost of living led to rioting and looting last month in its two biggest cities. Papua New Guinea and Australia reaffirmed their commitment to the regions existing security architecture as a key driver of security cooperation, a joint statement between Marape and Albanese said. Papua New Guinea is a nation of mostly subsistence farmers where some 800 languages are spoken. With 10 million people, it is the most populous South Pacific nation after Australia, which is home to 26 million. Australia Foreign Minister Penny Wong said Marapes historic speech elevated Australias relationship with the Pacific. We know that China is a great power asserting its interests, she told reporters. What we are doing is reemphasizing our part in the Pacific family and the importance of that engagement. After last months civil unrest, a number of Papua New Guinea ministers resigned and an under-pressure Marape may soon face a vote of no confidence. We must become a strong country standing on our own two feet, economically independent and strong so we too can help Australia maintain democracy, preserve peace and ensure stability. in our Pacific, he said in his speech. MDT/AP Warships from the United States, Australia and Japan have held joint drills in the South China Sea in defiance of Beijing, which claims sovereignty over virtually the entire strategic waterway. The U.S. 7th Fleet that oversees most U.S. Navy operations in the region said the guided-missile destroyer USS John Finn and combat ship USS Gabrielle Giffords carried out operations with navy ships from Japan and Australia over the last two days. There was no word on whether the exercises were conducted close to islands and shoals claimed by Beijing, which has built military bases on at least seven islands by piling concrete and sand on top of coral atolls. Beijing objects strongly to foreign naval operations in the area, saying historical records prove it belongs to China. Each year, an estimated $5 trillion in international commerce passes through the South China Sea, which also holds vital fish stocks and underwater mineral resources. The U.S. takes no formal stand on sovereignty in the area but rejects Chinas claims, partly based on a 2016 ruling by a United Nations-backed court in The Hague. There was no immediate reaction to the exercises from Chinas Defense Ministry. This multinational sail fortifies our relationship between the U.S., Japan and Australian allies, Cmdr. Earvin Taylor, John Finns commanding officer, said in a statement from the 7th Fleet. We promote transparency, rule of law, freedom of navigation and all principles that underscore security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. Australian Commodore Jonathan Ley said in the statement that such deployments are crucial for enhancing mutual understanding and our ability to operate together. The U.S., Australia and Japan also operate together in a strategic alliance known as the Quad that also includes India, a Chinese rival in Asia. The Quad has frequently accused China of flexing its military muscles in the South China Sea and aggressively pushing its maritime territorial claims. Beijing maintains that its military is purely defensive and protects its sovereign rights, and calls the Quad an attempt to contain its economic growth and influence. The navies of the four countries regularly hold drills seen as part of an initiative to counter Chinas growing assertiveness in the Pacific and Indian oceans and waters surrounding Taiwan. China and Japan also claim exclusive ownership over an uninhabited island group in the East China Sea controlled by Tokyo, with China routinely dispatching ships and planes to the area. Beijing applies similar tactics with Taiwan, a self-governing island of 23 million that is part of Chinas territory. A Taiwans ministry said yesterday it had detected four Chinese ships operating in the area and that it had, as usual, upgraded security ahead of the Lunar New Year holiday starting at the end of the week. CHRISTOPHER BODEEN, TAIPEI, MDT/AP Kelvin Harrison Jr. and Aaron Pierre can name the actors who have played Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X on screen. They also suspect those actors felt the same way they did when they began Genius: MLK/X, a limited series about the two Civil Rights leaders. Im sure they were insecure and scared and wondering if they could do it as well, Harrison says. But I dont think they regretted it. When I took it, I was like, as hard as this may be, I dont know what Im inviting into my life, but I know when I come out of it, Im going to be a better person and my character is going to be stronger. Harrison, cast as Martin Luther King Jr., says the series taught him plenty, particularly about the way the two behaved in their early days. We wanted to reflect the actual ages of Dr. King and Malcolm X when they were achieving these things, says Executive Producer Gina Prince-Bythewood. Dr. King was 26 when he led the Montgomery bus boycott. When you portray them at that age, young people can see, I can achieve that, too. We needed young actors who had the courage to take on these roles and the consciousness to know you have to get this right: Find your own Malcolm and Martin inside yourself and bring that forth. Malcolm X Malcolm X, played by Aaron Pierre, preaches in "Genius: MLK/X." Not so close encounters Harrison and Prince, whos cast as Malcolm X, were part of an extensive search. Although the two had started working on a new version of The Lion King, they didnt know each other. The first time we actually met was on the set of MLK/X," Harrison says. Surprisingly, Martin and Malcolm didnt have many encounters, either. They were on parallel tracks, but in different parts of the country with different supporters. For Prince-Bythewood and her husband, Reggie Rock Bythewood, it was important to tell a different story than most had seen or read. We need to dispel the idea that you have to choose between Malcolm and Martin, Rock Bythewood says. Perhaps they are opposite sides of the same coin. If we embrace the messaging of both we feel theres a contemporary solution to a lot of things were seeing right now. While the two easily could have written and directed the eight-part series, they put it in the hands of others. It was a different challenge, a different way to use our creative muscle, to allow them to have a space to bring forward what they wanted to bring, Rock Bythewood says. A different approach Damione Macedon and Raphael Jackson Jr., the two charged with telling the story, say they wanted to show how they men were as parents, husbands and sons. We are humbled in what we thought we knew when we started this project and what we learned throughout, Macedon says. We felt our audience would have the same reaction, which is, I did not know that. Harrison and Pierre studied plenty before they even started filming. You question your abilitywhether you have the endurance or the durability and you feel exposed and vulnerable, Pierre says. We feel very privileged to have had the opportunity to serve these great men. Because theres enough material on each, It was like there were two shows, Harrison says. We would see each other in passing and wed get whispers (about the other). It would fuel me even harder. Id hear how Aaron was approaching it and that helped mirror the experience. Both get big preaching scenes in MLK/X, which gave them a sense of what it might have been like to be religious leaders. Its very immersive, Pierre says. We were fortunate to have phenomenal background artists join us and love on us and support us during these days. That helped the two navigate other parts of the story, Harrison says. It also helped them understand why the two did what they did. Malcolm Malcolm X, played by Aaron Pierre, is escorted from Temple in "Genius:MLK/X." Real objectives We wanted to elevate both and show the importance of both, Prince-Bythewood says. So often in history Malcolm has been villainizedbut they followed what each other was doing. They pushed each other as they neared the end of their lives. They were actually moving closer and closer to each in the way they wanted to go about achieving the same goal. Today, Rock Bythewood says, young Black adults have nudged Malcolm X to the forefront. So much of what Malcolm was talking about was really the dignity of self, Prince-Bythewood says. His Pan-Africanism was a big part of his messagewe need to hear that message more than ever, particularly since some of his writings have been banned in several parts of the country. Martin and Malcolms storylines never touched, Macedon says. We also filmed it in a way that our actors werent on set at the same time purposely so we could savor the moment they meet. It was a challenge. Thankfully, producers had input from family members to make sure they werent missing details. I dont know if you can truly please everyone but you do the best you possibly can and, hopefully, you do it with honor and integrity. "Genius: MLK/X" airs throughout February on the National Geographic channel. A Dane County judge on Thursday found a man guilty of fatally shooting another man over a dice game in Penn Park 2 years ago. Von E. Johnson, 28, faces a mandatory life sentence for first-degree intentional homicide after rejecting a deal with prosecutors that would have had him plead guilty to first-degree reckless homicide, which carries a sentence of up to 40 years in prison and 20 years of extended supervision. On Labor Day 2021, Johnson gunned down 63-year-old David Neeley in the parks bathroom after losing about $1,600 to Neeley playing dice. Johnsons DNA was found on Neeleys pocket and Snapchat location data put him in the area of Penn Park the day of the shooting, Assistant District Attorney William Brown said. Right after the killing, Johnson ran into the nearby home of two people he vaguely knew presumably to temporarily hide the firearm used to kill Neeley, which has never been found, Brown said. The DNA puts him touching the victim, his pants, Brown said. The motive is clearly established that he was trying to get his money back from gambling losses. Johnson opted for a bench trial instead of facing a jury. Judge Mario White ruled that Johnson was guilty Thursday afternoon after closing arguments in the morning. Key testimony against Johnson came Tuesday from Elden Davis, a close friend of Neeley and pastor of the Church of the Narrow Way in Madison, which Neeley attended. Davis was by Neeleys side at UW hospital, where he survived for 13 days after the shooting. He just let me know he knew who did it, Davis testified. David said it was someone named Von. During closing arguments, Johnsons attorney Glenn Jazwiec relied on inconsistencies in the testimony of Davis and some other witnesses in the case. Neeleys surgeon, Dr. Charles Patrick Shahan, testified Wednesday that Neeley was unconscious the first two days after the shooting and could only communicate in his final days by shaking or nodding his head and could not speak because of a breathing tube in his throat. Detective Pedro Ortega-Mendoza, and later Detective Joseph Buccellato, both testified later that they were able to speak with Neeley, not easily, but Neeley could get some words out despite the breathing tube and could mouth words, in addition to making head gestures. Another witness, Kevin Offett, identified Johnson as the shooter to police, but in court said he didnt think Johnson looked like the shooter he saw at Penn Park that day. Offett also testified that someone called him telling him not to testify at Johnsons trial. He made a screenshot of the phone number, which Ortega-Mendoza testified was found to belong to someone associated with Johnson. Brown acknowledged the sometimes conflicting testimonies but pinned the prosecutions case against Johnson on other witness IDs of him as the shooter, DNA evidence, surveillance footage and location data. How many people had the motive to kill Mr. Neeley? Brown said. While each piece of evidence might have a hint of flaw, every single piece of evidence points to Von Johnson. Johnson will be sentenced at a later date. A 63-year-old Reedsburg man died in a rural Sauk County crash on Monday afternoon, authorities reported. Ronald Sersland died at the scene of a head-on collision with a semi on Highway 23 in the town of Excelsior on Monday, according to an initial investigation by the Sauk County Sheriff's Office. Deputies were dispatched to the scene around 3 p.m. and saw Sersland with life-threatening injuries in his Ford Ranger pickup truck. Responders removed Sersland from the truck and attempted lifesaving measures with help from bystanders. Sersland was traveling southbound on Highway 23 near Shady Lane Road when he crossed the center line and hit the semi-tractor trailer. The female driving the semi-tractor trailer was transported to Reedsburg Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Sauk County Sheriff's Office is currently investigating the crash further. Reedsburg first responders, the Wisconsin State Patrol and Lake Delton Police Department, UW Med-Flight, and Sauk County Highway Department all assisted at the scene. EVANSVILLE There were two tornadoes that hit southern Wisconsin Thursday night, including one near Evansville that could be classified as an EF3, according to investigators. Tim Halbach, warning coordination meteorologist with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, said Friday that a tornado near Albany is being classified as a high EF1 but it will take further investigation to determine if the Evansville-area tornado would be classified higher than a high EF2. An EF 5 tornado is considered the most severe. The tornado had winds of 135 mph north and northeast of Evansville and was throwing debris east of Evansville 10,000 to 15,000 feet into the air. The tornado was on the ground for 36 minutes, traveling 24.5 miles with a maximum width of 500 yards. The EFI tornado had peak winds of 110 mph and was on the ground for 14 minutes, covering 8.35 miles with a maximum width of 50 yards, the weather service said. Were not considering it a 3 at this point, Halbach said during a press briefing at the Ace hardware store on Evansvilles east side, just a block from a command post set up by the Rock County Sheriffs Office. We want to look at some aerial footage and talk with some other experts on the damage we saw. That damage included large farm equipment, which is not a typical indicator when assessing the severity of a storm, said Helbach, who is based in Dousman. The storm knocked out power, downed utility lines, damaged homes and farm buildings and closed roads. Storms started popping up in northeast Iowa Thursday, but Helbach said they werent tornadic until the storms started to enter Green County. No deaths, but devastation for some as unprecedented tornadoes hit southern Wisconsin A tornado, or even a tornado warning, had not occurred in Wisconsin in February since at least 1950, when the weather service started keeping records on them. They started to show more signs of rotation and thats when we started to issue tornado warnings, Helbach said. The first tornado warnings for the unusual storm were issued at 5:04 p.m. in the Albany area with the tornado going through that area between 5:15 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., Helbach said. In the Evansville area a tornado warning was issued at 5:32 p.m. with the tornado hitting around 5:45 p.m. to 5:50 p.m. For tornado warnings, thats a pretty good lead time, Helbach said. Our standards are normally 10 to 15 minutes ahead of when a tornado like that happens. Obviously, when it happens in February like this, a lot of time people wont think those warnings are legit. But from the people we talked to, a lot of people heard the warnings and were in their shelters and were safe from the tornadoes. Only one person was taken to a hospital. The victim was in a car that had been moved by the tornado but Rock County Sheriff Curtis Fell said he had no further details on the incident. He said maybe a half dozen other people suffered minor bruises and cuts but declined treatment. Im really amazed more people werent hurt, Fell said. Weve had a number of people that have suffered significant loss to their homes and some of their livelihood, right now. State transportation officials say theyve seen a sharp rise in the number of out-of-state used-car wholesalers that are violating state law, including by falsifying vehicle title information and rolling back odometers. Wisconsin is one of the few states that licenses vehicle wholesale companies that sell large numbers of used vehicles to traditional auto dealers, auction companies, metal salvage companies and other wholesalers. They buy most of their vehicles at auctions. State law forbids them from selling to the general public, and they must have a physical presence in the state. The state Department of Transportation said in a statement Thursday that while wholesalers offer a valuable service to the motor vehicle industry, it has seen a dramatic increase in the number of wholesale dealer licenses and consumer complaints. Thirty-two wholesale dealer licenses have been revoked in the past two months because the dealers failed to maintain business facilities in the state, the DOT said. The state also has revoked licenses because wholesalers were making sales to the public, rolling back vehicle odometers including two wholesalers that rolled back more than 6 million miles on 64 vehicles, an average of more than 93,000 per vehicle and altering vehicle titles to show those lower, fake odometer readings. Fraudsters can roll back odometers on modern vehicles in several ways, according to the DOT, including replacing the instrument cluster that includes the odometer with instruments that show a lower mileage and tampering with the vehicles on-board computer to lower the odometers readout. Investigators use vehicle history reports, records from vehicle-titling agencies and service records, among other documentation, to verify that the odometer has been tampered with. Between July 2019 and January 2024, the DOT said, investigators found wholesalers rolled back more than 161 million odometer miles on vehicles, which correlates to approximately $9.7 million in consumer damage. Since 2019, it has identified at least 1,873 vehicles whose odometers were rolled back by wholesalers, sold by wholesalers to retail customers, or both. At least 15 states have seen such illegal retail sales. Wisconsin DMVs Dealer and Agent Section is committed to protecting consumers by investigating complaints, verifying business practices and taking corrective action, Wisconsin Department of Motor Vehicles Administrator Tommy Winkler said in the statement. However, the tremendous growth in the number wholesale dealers, many of whom are out-of-state dealer owners, puts consumers at risk from unscrupulous businesses who abuse their wholesale license. Not only are consumers hurt, Wisconsin dealers who do business the right way are getting a bad name from those who abuse their wholesale license. The DOT said key to such fraud are large warehouse-like facilities known as centralized dealer operations, or CDOs, that may house several hundred licensed wholesale dealers at one time within a shared space. The facilities are often empty and only used as a business front, the DOT said in the news release. It provided photos of the inside of one such facility showing rows of empty cubicles. CDOs first appeared in Wisconsin in 2018, the DOT said, and since then, the number of wholesale licenses has grown exponentially increasing by 1,194%, and more than 90% of those dealers are from out of state. The DMV has an online portal to report complaints at wisconsindmv.gov/dealercomplaint. Local election officials will be able to accept absentee ballot envelopes with partial witness address information under new guidance issued Thursday by the Wisconsin Elections Commission. The agencys decision comes after a Dane County judges Jan. 30 order that the commission implement the new rules. Under the new guidelines, clerks can accept absentee ballots whose envelopes contain partial witness addresses as long as the witnesses addresses are discernable. The topic has garnered considerable interest on both sides of the aisle, as allowing clerks to accept ballots with partial witness addresses could allow more votes to be counted in a state where the upcoming elections for president and one of the states two U.S. Senate seats could be decided by narrow margins. Under previous guidance, clerks were required to reach out to voters to correct absentee ballot envelopes that had incomplete or insufficient witness address information before those ballots could be accepted. The commission voted 5-1 Thursday, with Republican Commissioner Bob Spindell opposed, to adopt new guidance to apply that requirement to absentee ballot envelopes with a missing address. Spindell proposed amending the new rule to require a witness to provide a photo ID before corrections are made, but the motion failed on a 3-3 vote, with all Democratic members opposed. A Waukesha County judge in September 2022 ruled that clerks cannot correct address errors on absentee ballot certificates, leaving some clerks to reject ballots missing witnesses ZIP codes or municipality. That led Rise Inc., a liberal group that mobilizes young voters, and the League of Women Voters of Wisconsin to file separate lawsuits arguing voters shouldnt be disenfranchised because of immaterial errors on ballot envelopes that clerks can no longer fix. The two lawsuits were later combined into a single case. Dane County Judge Ryan Nilsestuen ruled last month that clerks can accept absentee ballots whose envelopes contain partial witness addresses as long as the witnesses addresses are discernable. In that ruling, Nilsestuen rejected the Wisconsin Elections Commissions proposed definition of an address as including a street number, street name and the name of the municipality. Instead, he ruled, a witness address can omit municipalities and ZIP codes, or simply say same or ditto if the witness lives with the voter as long as clerks can figure out where the witness lives. In his ruling, Nilsestuen said the issue could be resolved by legislation clearly defining an address. He noted that, in the absence of such a law, the court has to make sense of an undefined word used in a variety of different contexts in a convoluted and poorly written statute. GOP measure Legislative Republicans earlier this month introduced a bill that would bar local election officials from counting a returned absentee ballot unless it includes a witness signature and the witnesss printed first and last name, house or apartment number, street name, municipality, state and ZIP code. The bill would prohibit anyone other than the voter or witness from correcting any defects on the ballot certificate. Violation of the statute would result in a fine of up to $500 and a 30-day jail sentence, according to a Legislative Reference Bureau analysis of the proposal. Assembly Bill 1037 is similar to a measure Gov. Tony Evers vetoed almost two years ago. The Democratic governor has struck down several GOP-authored proposals over the last five years aimed at changing election administration in Wisconsin. Attorneys for the Legislature have appealed Nilsestuens ruling. The nonpartisan Legislative Audit Bureau in 2021 reviewed 14,710 absentee ballot certificates received during the 2020 election in 29 counties and municipalities, some of which were won by Democrat Joe Biden and others by Republican Donald Trump. It found that 1,022 certificates, or 6.9%, were missing parts of witness addresses; 15, or 0.1%, did not have any witness address at all; eight, or less than 0.1%, did not have a witness signature; and three, or less than 0.1%, did not have a voter signature. Clerks corrected 66, or about 0.4%, of those certificates. Elections 101: Video series explains how elections are carried out in Wisconsin The Wisconsin Elections Commission put together the following series of instructional videos and accompanying lesson plans for use in high school civics classes and the general public. Elections overview An overview of elections administration in Wisconsin. Voting Security Let's take a look at how we maintain security and integrity with all of our elections. Nuts and bolts The ins-and-outs of voter processes like registering to vote and requesting a ballot to vote absentee. A Day at the Polls See what it is like to go to the polls and vote. A way toward two states? For more than half a century, Israel has controlled the borders of the West Bank and Gaza. Home to 5 million Palestinians, these areas exist in a kind of netherworld between being part of Israel and being separate, sovereign entities. Israel controls their territory, but Palestinians who live in the West Bank and Gaza cannot vote in Israel and do not have basic rights or freedom of movement. It is a situation that many analysts have long understood is unsustainable, because it has repeatedly given way to extreme fighting between Israelis and Palestinians. Yet with the U.S. and other powers firmly backing Israel as a strategic ally, few could see realistic possibilities for change. The shocking scale of violence in the war is changing that. About 1,200 people were killed and 240 were kidnapped in Hamas Oct. 7 attack. In Gaza, Israels war has killed more than 27,000 residents, mostly civilians. This violence, along with the threat of a wider war breaking out, is upending the once-remote idea of significant change in the region. Nearly the entire population of 2 million people in Gaza have been displaced from their homes and face dire humanitarian emergencies due to food, water and power shortages, foreign aid blockages and the destruction of Gazas hospitals. With Houthi militants in Yemen entering the conflict and threats from Hezbollah militants in Lebanon, the U.S. is wary of being pulled into another war in the Middle East. Pressure is growing internationally for a cease-fire -- and a two-state solution. The U.S., the European Union and China all voice support for a two-state solution, and Saudi Arabia has made the possibility of a historic accord with Israel contingent on it. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said that a two-state solution is the only path to peace. Pressure is mounting in Israel as well, as people continue to protest for the Israeli government to make a deal and bring 130 hostages still captive home alive. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus approval ratings are tanking. Israels economy is shrinking. And the Israeli government is increasingly divided over the war effort, with Netanyahu losing support in his own far-right party. A two-state solution still faces large obstacles. But international consensus is growing that a two-state solution is the only acceptable outcome of the current violence. The conditions unfolding in Israel and Gaza are beginning to reach a breaking point, similar to the conditions in South Africa that formed prior to apartheids defeat. One can understand why President Joe Biden, after sticking his political neck out for Israel for months, is reportedly frustrated with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Rockets were still falling on Tel Aviv when Biden visited Israel to show support. He sent U.S. armed forces to the region to deter Hezbollah and, more recently, beat back Houthi piracy. He pushed for billions of dollars in additional military aid and backed Israels war in Gaza even as it became increasingly unpopular. In exchange, Biden has asked Netanyahu to commit to a Palestinian state once the Israel-Hamas war ends. And Netanyahu publicly said no. The United States is now reported to be engaging with other leaders and parties in Israel about the future of Gaza and the Palestinians at large. The problem is that opposition to a Palestinian state stretches well beyond the prime ministers office. Netanyahu undeniably has his own reasons for rejecting Palestinian statehood. His government relies on the support of ultra-right-wing parties that advocate expelling Gazans from the strip en masse. If he backed Palestinian statehood, the coalition would shatter and his government would collapse. And polls suggest that if new elections are held, Netanyahu will be out of a job. Then there are the broader practicalities of implementing a two-state solution, demarcating everything from water rights to airspace and carving out the geography from the river to the sea without bisecting Israel in the process. The most daunting political problems would be relocating the 700,000 Israeli settlers in the West Bank and the eternal challenge of dealing with Jerusalem. But something deeper is behind Netanyahus opposition: a fundamentally different conception of the root cause of the Oct. 7 massacre and the war. In the American narrative, the context of Oct. 7 is the failure of the 1990s-era Israeli-Palestinian peace process. In this telling, Israels mowing the grass approach killing militants without simultaneously providing Palestinians with real political or economic opportunities was bound to fail. So peace begins with providing those opportunities and a path to a two-state solution. In Israels version of events, the error was Israels 2005 withdrawal from Gaza, which gave Hamas a sanctuary to plan, train for and ultimately launch a relatively unimpeded attack on Israel. Israel notes that it not only allowed but encouraged Qatar to funnel money to Gaza to improve living conditions, some of which was probably spent on weapons. Israel also contends that work permits allowing thousands of Gazans to earn higher wages in Israel became a means for Hamas to gather intelligence. In Israels view, a two-state solution would only compound this problem. The Palestinian Authority is widely viewed as weak and corrupt. Nearly 9 in 10 Palestinians want its president, Mahmoud Abbas, to resign. Meanwhile, 57% of Gazans and 82% of West Bank Palestinians approved of Hamas October attack. So, Israel asks, what would prevent Hamas or a similar group from usurping control of a Palestinian state much as they did in Gaza? This is not just Netanyahus view but Israelis view. Support for a two-state solution among Israelis has been declining for a decade, according to the Pew Research Center. In a survey conducted several months before the Hamas attack, a mere 35% of Israelis thought two states could coexist peacefully. Even if Netanyahu were to depart from the political scene, such Israeli opposition may remain. This leaves the United States with few levers to pull. It can offer plans for redrawing the map, but that wont get to the heart of the matter. It can promise incentives such as normalization of relations with Saudi Arabia, but the fear of another Oct. 7 will trump any potential benefits. Conditions can be attached to U.S. military aid, but thats liable to exacerbate Israeli insecurities and, as a consequence, intransigence. Perhaps the path forward is to start smaller. As Israeli President Isaac Herzog noted, the average Israeli wants to know: Can we be promised real safety in the future? After the trauma of Oct. 7, it will take time to build such confidence. But his framing hints at where to start. Israels military leaders have argued that its security requires planning for the wars end and rebuilding Gaza. Netanyahu has resisted any such discussion, but American pressure might change his calculus. Done right, reconstruction could foster the mutual trust necessary for a more lasting political settlement. Such incrementalism is bound to frustrate everyone certainly Palestinians who yearn for statehood as well as right-wing Israelis who resist any thought of rebuilding Gaza, but also the Biden administration, which would prefer a big win in this election year. But like any number of previous presidents, Biden is learning that while the dynamics of the Middle East may change, frustration is a constant. - Advertisement - Harm reduction experts who are keenly watching the developments in the 10th Conference of the Parties (COP) in Panama asked the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) to disclose full and accurate information about smoke-free products. The experts raised their voices as delegates from 183 countries, including the Philippines, gathered for the COP 10 of the WHO FCTC this past week in Panama. The future of emerging and novel tobacco was one of the topics discussed. Martin Cullip, an international fellow at the UK-based Taxpayers Protection Alliances Consumer Center, said the WHO FCTC showed despotism in their refusal to allow consumers to join the event. They wont let us speak directly with delegations. Delegations almost all ignore messages sent to their governments on harm reduction, he said. Cullip said the WHO FCTC attempted to redefine smoke in violation of its scientific integrity. The science overwhelmingly supports tobacco harm reduction, so advocacy should be unnecessary. However, when they disregard science, we are compelled to speak out, only to be ignored, said Cullip. Clive D. Bates, director of advocacy group Counterfactual, lamented the WHO FCTCs unscientific stance, which deprives 1.3 billion smokers of alternatives. Counterfactual is a consulting and advocate group focused on a pragmatic approach to sustainability and public health. - Advertisement - WHO and tobacco control activists have been instrumental in denying millions of smokers access to life-saving, low-risk alternatives to cigarettes this has occurred through prohibition, regulation and misinformation for which there is no scientific or ethical basis, Bates said. He particularly denounced two WHO FCTC papers for excluding scientific evidence and consumer input, and for misclassifying heated aerosol as smoke. In summary, the primary aim of these two papers is to argue that heated tobacco products are smoking products that do not offer harm reduction benefits and therefore should be regulated similarly to cigarettes. However, this narrative is false and dangerous. These products are, beyond any reasonable doubt, far less harmful than cigarettes and, in some countries, have triggered a dramatic decline in smoking, he said, referring to Sweden, the UK and Japan. Bates said heated tobacco products (HTPs) do not involve combustion and are chemically distinct from tobacco smoke. He highlighted their significantly reduced emission of harmful chemicals compared to tobacco smoke, citing research findings. In general, HTP emissions contain far fewer compounds than tobacco smoke and exhibit, on average, a 90-percent reduction in HPHCs (harmful and potentially harmful chemicals). The TPM (tobacco particular matter) of HTPs is dominated by water and has a high volatile content, whereas the TPM of tobacco smoke is mostly composed of low-volatile droplets and solid particles, he said. Bates also referred to court cases in Germany and Sweden where heated tobacco products were not classified as smoking products due to the absence of combustion. He criticized the WHO FCTC Secretariat paper for failing to acknowledge these rulings and the rationale behind them. The court explained that the distinction between a smoking tobacco product and a smokeless tobacco product is based solely on whether a tobacco product is consumed with or without a combustion process; and it is irrelevant whether smoke occurs when the tobacco product is consumed. Bates said the WHO FCTC Secretariat paper does not mention these cases and the technical and legal reasoning behind the rulings. The paper also aims to suggest a false and misleading equivalence between HTP aerosol and tobacco smoke, presumably to bolster its argument against tobacco harm reduction and to support regulation of these products as if they were as dangerous as cigarettes, which is far from the case, he said. He said that toxic exposures with heated tobacco products are significantly lower, likely reducing health risks for smokers who switch to these products, as recognized by no less than the US Food and Drug Administration. WHO fails to mention the 2-million-page application and in-depth analysis by the FDA in reaching its authorizing decisions, he said. He said WHO FCTCs recommended extreme bans on communications related to tobacco and alternative nicotine products without sufficient justification. WHO has never provided a justification or evidence for this policy (banning a much safer product while allowing cigarettes to be available everywhere). Given ENDS [electronic nicotine delivery systems) are substitutes for cigarettes, we would expect this measure to increase smoking, promote illicit trade in ENDS, and increase harm to health and welfare, he said. Regarding claims by the WHO that there is insufficient evidence showing that these products displace smoking at the population level, Bates said there is ample evidence from various sources indicating the opposite. There is a wide range of evidence from randomized controlled trials, observational studies, population trend data, quasi-experimental economic studies, market observers and user testimony, all showing that ENDS use displaces smoking. Also, we would expect that innovation with new, safer products should displace incumbent dangerous products, he said. Tobacco harm reduction advocates also warned that banning smoke-free alternatives would only exacerbate the underground market for these products. India decided two or three years ago to ban cigarettes. What was the outcome of that? From a very small market which was at that time unregulated but not illegal, they illegalized the product and they ended up with a huge 100-percent black market of illicit electronic cigarette products that are available virtually in every corner in all major cities in India with no quality criteria, no quality control, no regulation, no oversight from the government, no rules on marketing and promotion, no one knows where they come from, said Dr. Konstantinos Farsalinos, a cardiologist and research fellow at the Onassis Cardiac Surgery Center in Athens, Greece. The government now pretends that e-cigarettes dont exist because they banned them. Its a perfect example showing that regulation can sometimes be much worse than just leaving everything alone and applying no regulation at all. Hopefully one would expect countries to learn from these mistakes. They dont because first of all they dont admit the mistakes despite the obvious and well understood outcome, he said. - Advertisement - The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) signed a two-year agreement with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to improve cybersecurity in the Philippines. The DICT said the technical cooperation is timely, imperative and aligned with National Cybersecurity Plan (NCSP) 2024-28 approved by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Feb. 6 which sets the direction of the Philippine government in responding to cyber threats and network intrusions. It is crucial in the age of digitization as it will help enhance security of the Philippines critical information structures, the agency said. Based on statistics, the Philippines is the fourth most-attacked country in the world, with over 50 million web threat attempts in 2021. The Philippines also ranked 61st of 194 countries worldwide (13th of 38 countries in Asia Pacific) in the 2020 Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI), placing below major ASEAN countries. - Advertisement - The DICT underscored the need to beef up the countrys cybersecurity position to enhance the protection of government agencies, critical information infrastructures, businesses and supply chains and every Filipino in cyberspace. Currently, digitization, digitalization and digital transformation are the solid priority policies for a prosperous future, and at the same time, cybersecurity is becoming a major concern which requires immediate response. We aim to assist the Philippines in achieving trusted, secure and reliable cyberspace for every Filipino in the digital age. Through this cooperation, Japanese experts will help develop modules and support activities that will complement the NCS, said JICA chef representative Sakamoto Takema. This is also an opportunity to help build convergence of different stakeholders in the Philippines and come up with measures to make digital systems trusted, secure and reliable, Takema said. As part of the JICA-DICT cooperation, training modules will be developed and implemented to boost technical capability of cybersecurity personnel. - Advertisement - The Customs -Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) reiterated a public warning recently about a money-making scheme involving fake social media accounts created using the names and photos of Bureau of Customs (BOC) employees. The bogus accounts charge fees to their victims, which they pay using online payment, money remittance, or personal bank transfer to those pretending to be Customs workers. The Port of NAIA clarifies that the payment of Customs fees can only be done at the BOC Cashier or accredited banks. If you have experienced this kind of fraud, you can call the BOC hotline number (02) 8705-6000 or report to the following official BOC social media accounts: Facebook: @BureauOfCustomsPH, Instagram: @customs.ph, X (Twitter): @customs.ph, Viber: @Bureau of Customs PH, and Email: boc.cares@customs.gov.ph, it said. Last year, the bureau also warned about a separate group of individuals operating a new love scam at NAIA. The perpetrators modify their tactics and pretend to be foreigners, who are being detained upon arrival at the airport for bringing a large amount of money. The scammer will first befriend and court the victim online, send gifts to earn their trust, and then arrange for them to fly to the Philippines, where they will eventually get in trouble with the BOC. - Advertisement - Upon the supposed arrival, the victim will receive a call from someone pretending to be a Customs employee, explaining that his or her foreign friend is in trouble and demanding that money be sent right away. After sending the amount, the victim loses contact with the foreigner. - Advertisement - The Cement Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (CeMAP) has complained of cement imports from Vietnam flooding the local market despite excess capacities. Citing data from Global Cement News, CeMAP said Vietnam has a total cement production capacity of 120 million tons, as twice the countrys local demand of 57 million metric tons (MT) in 2023. CeMAP said Vietnam dumps its excess output to the Philippines as its domestic demand further declined by 16 percent in 2023, with PH imports hitting almost the same volume as in 2022. In recent data collected by CeMAP from the Bureau of Customs (BOC), the anti-dumping duties imposed beginning March 2023 were only levied on 20 percent of total cement exports to the Philippines. As it stands, the Philippine cement industry has a total expected capacity this 2024 of 53 million tons (MT) while demand is projected to hover at 34.5 MT for this year. - Advertisement - With the government accounting for an estimated 40 percent of total cement demand, CeMAP said there is enough locally manufactured cement to provide for government and private infrastructure projects. Based on a previous release from CeMAP, local manufacturers continue investing in additional capacity totaling 13 million tons per annum (MTPA) over the last five years. Capacity expansion introduces more innovative cement solutions to Filipinos, leading to significant reductions in CO2 emissions, increasing use of low-carbon blended cements, and lessening the dependency on fossil fuels with the use of alternative fuels across the industry. CeMAP emphasized that members continue to invest in their communities through their social development programs that benefit the development and competitiveness of the countrys construction industry contrary to cement importers and traders who merely import and sell. With the erosion of the domestic cement market by imports, these investments are put at risk and, along with it, thousands of Filipino jobs, the group said. CeMAP highlighted that imports further diminish the countrys attractiveness for new capital to invest in new and innovative domestic manufacturing capacities vital industries like cement, as well as the potential reduction of taxes coming from local manufacturers. The group blamed the premature ending of the safeguard measures in 2022 that has led to problematic imports threatening the domestic cement industry. CeMAP believes that the safeguards measures should have been extended given the circumstances. - Advertisement - WASHINGTON, DCPresident Vladimir Putin said in an interview released Thursday with controversial right-wing US talk show host Tucker Carlson that the West should understand it is impossible to defeat Russia in Ukraine.In a two-hour interview with the former Fox News hostcoming just ahead of the two-year anniversary of Russias invasion of UkrainePutin also said a deal can be reached on imprisoned Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich.There are certain terms being discussed via special services channels, he said, while insisting the reporter is a spysomething the Journal and US government vehemently deny.It was the first one-on-one interview of Putin by someone from the Western media since 2019.However Carlson, who is close to White House candidate and former president Donald Trump, asked few tough questions and largely listened while the Kremlin leader lectured him on his views of Russian history, portraying the country as a victim of Western betrayals.Putin defended his decision to invade Ukraine in February 2022.And he said the West now realizes that Russia will not be defeated, despite US, European and NATO help to Ukraine.Up until now, there has been the uproar and screaming about inflicting a strategic defeat to Russia on the battlefield. But now they are apparently coming to realize that it is difficult to achieve, if possible, at all. In my opinion, it is impossible by definition, he said.He also aimed a message at the US Congress, where Trump-dominated Republicans are increasingly reluctant to keep backing Ukraine with weapons and other military aid.I will tell you what we are saying on this matter and what we are conveying to the US leadership. If you really want to stop fighting, you need to stop supplying weapons, he said. When asked if Moscow would consider invading other countries in the region NATO members Poland and Latvia or generally across the European continent, Putin said that was out of the question.We have no interest in Poland, Latvia or anywhere else. Why would we do that? We simply dont have any interest. Its just threat mongering, Putin said.A war with Poland, he said, would happen only in one case: if Poland attacks Russia.Asked about a possible change in leadership after the US election, where Biden is expected to face off against Trump in a rematch of their 2020 contest, Putin indicated he would see little change.You just asked me if another leader comes and changes something? It is not about the leader. It is not about the personality of a particular person.Facing Putin in matching white chairs with a small table between them, Carlson rarely pushed back in his interview in an ornate room at the Kremlin recorded Tuesday and posted on Carlsons own website and did not challenge Putin over his relationship with Trump.While president and since being defeated by Biden, Trump has repeatedly praised Putin and failed to condemn the invasion of Ukraine saying if he was reelected he would be able to solve the war in 24 hours, though not saying how.By contrast, Biden has branded Putin a war criminal and has made backing for Ukraines elected, pro-Western government one of the key priorities of his presidency. AFP - Advertisement - Las Vegas, NevadaDonald Trump strolled to victory in the Nevada caucus on Thursday (Friday in Manila), adding more delegates in his seemingly unstoppable march to the Republican Partys presidential nomination. Trump was the only major candidate on the ballot when party members gathered in public buildings across the southwestern US state to cast their in-person votes. Early results showed the former president had massively out-polled his long-shot challenger, a businessman from Texas, and major US networks said Trump would scoop the states available delegates. It was the second go around in presidential preference voting for Nevada this week. State-organized primary polls were held on Tuesday in which Nikki Haley was beaten into second place on the Republican ballot by None of these candidateswidely seen as a proxy vote for Trump. - Advertisement - That result, however, was meaningless, with Nevadas GOP declaring months ago it would award its delegates from Thursdays rival caucus, a format that strongly favors Trump. Haley badly trails Trump in the overall race for the nomination, and is on course for another drubbing in her home state of South Carolina later this month. The former UN ambassador insisted Wednesday that she was not dropping out. Im in this for the long haul, she told supporters at a campaign event in California on Wednesday night, according to The New York Times. AFP This is going to be messy, and this going to hurt, and its going to leave some bruises, but at the end of the day, I dont mind taking them, if you will go right along with me. Trump on Thursday said he thought her continued candidacy was not a good idea, but it didnt bother him. I dont know why she continues but let her continue, he said. I dont really care. I think its bad for the party. I think its actually bad for her. Republicans in the US Virgin Islands were also caucusing on Thursday. Although it is not a state and will not get a say in Novembers presidential election, the territory does play a part in deciding presidential nominees. Trump won the party vote by a margin of three-to-one over Haley, giving him all available delegates for the July 15-18 Republican National Convention in Wisconsin which will decide the nominee. AFP - Advertisement - Instead of a jail term, Senator Jinggoy Estrada wants just a fine to be imposed on any journalist found guilty of libel, thus removing the penalty of imprisonment. Saying civil damages are enough, Estrada filed Senate Bill No 2521, or an Act Abolishing the Penalty of Imprisonment in Libel cases Against Community Journalists, Publications or Broadcasters. The Philippines is perceived as one of the most dangerous pieces in the world for journalists, with numerous cases of killings against media practitioners in recent years Estrada said on Friday. Estrada first filed a similar bill during his first term in 2004 in the 13th Congress and refiled the same in 14th, 15th and 16th Congress but, in all instances, failed to pass. Based on the 2022 Global Impunity Index, which calculates the number of unsolved journalist murders as a percentage of each countrys population, the Philippines ranked seventh in the world with 14 unsolved killings. - Advertisement - According to the 2023 World Press Freedom Index, which evaluates the environment for journalism, the Philippines ranked 132nd among 180 countries, an improvement from last years 147th standing. The 1987 Constitution guarantees freedom of the press but, in practice, Philippine law does not protect the free exercise of journalism, Estrada said. It does not help that while journalists are under attack, the domestic legal framework poses another serious threat through imprisonment due to libel, which is currently a criminal offense, he added. Under the Revised Penal Code, libel is committed by means of writing, printing, lithography, engraving, radio, phonograph, painting, theatrical exhibition, cinematographic, exhibition, or any similar means. As amended by Republic Act 10951, it shall be punished by prison correctional (6 months and 1 day to 6 years) in its minimum and medium periods or a fine ranging from P40,000 to P1.2 million, or both. In a news release last year on its ruling to impose a fine on a cyber libel case, the Supreme Court ruled that the RPC recognizes that the penalty of fine may be imposed as a single or alternative penalty for libel, as evident in the RPCs plain use of the disjunctive word or between the term of imprisonment and fine, such word signaling disassociation or independence between the two words. Thus, for traditional libel, a fine can be imposed in lieu of imprisonment, the SC said. - Advertisement - The Department of Migrant Workers announced that another batch of overseas Filipino workers will receive payment for their unpaid wages and other benefits from Saudi Arabian construction companies that went bankrupt between 2015 and 2016. Officer-in-Charge Hans Leo J. Cacdac made the disclosure after President Marcos earlier announced that some 1,104 OFWs who were displaced by the closure of construction companies in the Middle Eastern kingdom started in late January. According to the President in a video posted on his Facebook account, around 843 OFWs who received checks from Saudi-based Alinma Bank some 843 have been able to encash these. The DMW said they are expecting another tranche of 400 checks to be distributed within the next month. This will bring the number of Saudi OFW claimants checks distributed for payout and encashment to about 1,500. The claimants were assisted by the Overseas Filipino Bank and Land Bank of the Philippines by allowing them to open accounts where they could deposit the claims checks and receive their cash payouts. - Advertisement - Cacdac said the remaining 300 or so checks from the first group of checks distributed are due to clear in the next few weeks. The DMW in the third quarter of 2023 submitted to Saudi authorities a list of 10,554 displaced Saudi OFW claimants with verified iqamas, the official government permit required of foreign nationals to live and work in Saudi Arabia. This is just the start of what we see as a deliberate process of distribution of claimants checks and encashment resulting into the full payout of each of our displaced OFWs unpaid claims and other benefits, Cacdac explains. However, the DMW chief said a lot of things have yet to be done, among them allowing the heirs of claimants who have passed away to receive the payouts, as well as addressing minor discrepancies in terms of the claimants real names and the names written on the checks. He assured OFWs that the Landbank and Overseas Filipinos Bank are helping the DMW on these issues and concerns. We will continue working with our Saudi counterparts to resolve these issues and we will continue assisting our OFWs and their families through this final stage in receiving their long overdue wages and benefits, Cacdac said. - Advertisement - THE Czech Republic eyes more interactions with the Department of National Defense (DND), saying it supports the ongoing modernization program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong, in a statement Thursday night, said this was the highlight of a meeting between a Czech delegation headed by Ambassador to Manila Karel Hejc and DND Undersecretary Irineo Espino at the DND headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. The Czech delegations courtesy call served as a follow-up to Ambassador Hejcs introductory call on Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. in December 2023, Andolong said. Andolong said both countries discussed common security challenges, upholding international law, especially focusing on international maritime law, and prospects for long-term defense cooperation under the 2017 agreement on defense cooperation and 2021 memorandum of understanding concerning cooperation in the area of defense industry and logistics between the DND and the Czech Defense Ministry. The Czech delegation reiterated their countrys support to the modernization of the AFP, highlighting their defense products, ranging from small arms to various defense platforms. Ambassador Hejc also expressed keenness to pursue government-to-government cooperation, explore joint manufacturing arrangements, and offer financing options for potential projects, Andolong added. He noted that both sides were looking forward to the 5th Asia Defense and Security, Crisis & Disaster Management Exhibition and Conference (ADAS) in September and the DNDs hosting of the 2nd Joint Defense Committee (JDC) Meeting on a mutually acceptable date this year. - Advertisement - Ambassador Lauro L. Baja Jr., the countrys former permanent representative to the United Nations, has died, his nephew and Philippine Ambassador to Morocco Leslie Baja confirmed on his Facebook account on Friday. The elder Baja was 86. Leslie Baja posted a photo of him being held as a baby by his uncle,who in another photo was seen presiding over the UN Security Council beside then-UN Secretary General Kofi Annan, on his social media page. The images followed the words Ambassador Lauro L. Baja, Jr., Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador & Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York, Ambassador to Brazil & Italy, 1937-2024. Other sources confirmed to the Standard the passing of Baja without giving any details. The Department of Foreign Affairs had yet to issue a statement on his death as of press time. Born May 2, 1937, Baja presented his credentials to the UN Secretary-General on May 21, 2003, replacing former Ambassador Alfonso T. Yuchengco. - Advertisement - Baja was replaced by former Chief Justice Hilario Davide in 2006. At the UN, Baja led the Philippine delegation in a two-year membership in the Security Council. He was president of the Security Council, first in June 2004 and again in September 2005. Between 2003 and 2004, Baja was Chairman of the United Nations General Assembly Sixth Committee (Legal). In 2003, Baja was conferred by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo the Order of Sikatuna with the rank of Datu, the highest award a member of the Philippine Foreign Service could receive. In 1999, he received the Gawad Mabini Award with the rank of Dakilang Kamanong. The Philippine Jaycees Senate named Ambassador Baja the Outstanding Filipino (TOFIL) Awardee for his outstanding work in the field of bilateral and multilateral diplomacy. - Advertisement - President Marcos wished King Charles III of the United Kingdom a swift and full recovery after the latter was diagnosed with cancer earlier this week. In a short message on his X (formerly Twitter), President Marcos expressed solidarity with the UK in praying for the hasty recuperation of their king. Sending my heartfelt best wishes to King Charles and Queen Camilla, President Marcos said. The Philippines is with the United Kingdom in praying for the Kings swift and full recovery, he added. Buckingham Palace on Monday announced King Charles diagnosis with cancer. - Advertisement - During The Kings recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted, Buckingham Palace said in a statement. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer, the statement read. - Advertisement - Former President Rodrigo Duterte insisted there was nothing illegal with his proposal for Mindanao to secede from the Philippines, adding that to secede doesnt mean going to war. [My proposal] is a legal process that will be brought to the United Nations [akin to that of] Timor Leste, Duterte said in an interview with lawyer Salvador Panelo, the former presidential legal counsel and Justice secretary, aired late Thursday over DZRJ TV. They thought if you want to secede, its going to be a war. No. We are going to do it the legal way, the former Chief Executive added. Former House speaker Pantaleon Alvarez also said the Mindanao independence campaign advocacy will be pursued in a peaceful and orderly manner. Alvarez, who represents Davao del Nortes first district in the House of Representatives, made the statement to debunk allegations that the movement is seditious and contrary to law. - Advertisement - Told that secession was against the 1987 Constitution, Duterte said: It is not against the Constitution. It is outside the Constitution. Mag-secede ka nga e. It is based on the right of a free will of determination of the people. He also said he was not calling for the ouster of Mr. Marcos, indicating that his only issue with the President was his moves towards Charter change. On Thursday, Mr. Marcos said the call to separate Mindanao was doomedto fail, for it is anchored on false premise not to mention a sheer constitutional travesty. I strongly appeal to all concerned to stop this call for a separate Mindanao. This is a grave violation of the constitution, the President said at the observation of Constitution Day 2024 in Makati City. Meanwhile, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri opposed the plan of the former President and Alvarez. With due respect to the former President, the last thing that we want is for the country to be divided, said Zubiri, a native of Mindanao himself. Another Mindanaoan, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III said the insistence of Duterte and Alvarez to push for the separation of the island region from the Philippines needs more study. Pimentel admitted that he is against any suggestion of secession or separation of part of the Philippine territory. We have to work tirelessly on making this nation function as a working effective state, he added, while acknowledging that Mindanao has been suffering from historical injustice. Senator Imee Marcos, the Presidents older sister, categorically stated she will not support Mindanaos secession. Senator Francis Escudero pointed out this is not constitutionally possible. Senator Ronald Dela Rosa, a close ally of the former president, also opposed the separation of Mindanao. On my part, personally, right now I dont want to because I dont want to get a visa if I go visit my grandchildren here in Batangas, Dela Rosa said. In a statement sent to the media, Alvarez reasserted the movements commitment to peaceful, democratic, and lawful means to advocate for the welfare and rights of the people of Mindanao, particularly the right to self-determination. I salute the soldiers and policemen. During the time of former president Duterte, they were given a pay increase as an expression of gratitude for their services. But the statement of their leaders is wrong. They can use force if what we are doing is a crime. But it is not so, no weapons are involved here. I hope they will not scare the people, Alvarez said. What we intend to do is resort to reason and tap the peaceful and common aspirations of the Mindanaoan people, he stressed. Under the Revised Penal Code, rebellion requires taking up arms while sedition is committed by those rising publicly and tumultuously to prevent, in a forceful, intimidating or illegal way, the execution of a law, administrative order, or a popular election; to obstruct the government or any public officer from freely performing his functions; or to inflict act of hate or revenge against a public officer or employee or their property. He added: Our aim is for Mindanao to finally be allowed to prioritize itself. On Tuesday, the Marion City Council heard the audit report regarding the citys finances for fiscal year 2022-23. The City Council held the first regular meeting for February on Tuesday at the Marion Community Building. Mayor Pro Tem Woody Ayers presided over the meeting because Mayor Steve Little was not able to attend. Local governments in North Carolina are required by law to have an annual audit of their finances and Dan Mullinix with Gould Killian CPA Group in Asheville presented the audit report. His report said his firm issued an unmodified (clean) opinions and the report shows reasonable assurance that the financial statements are free from material misstatement. This means the citys finances are in good shape. We reported no material weaknesses in internal control, he said. We reported no material weaknesses in internal control. We reported no material noncompliance with laws and regulations. During fiscal year 2022-23, the city of Marion had to make some major transactions. The city spent $94,207 on City Hall renovations, $46,117 on City Hall heating and air upgrades, $102,780 on constriction at the new City Hall (former Fifth-Third Bank building), $26,416 on the Lincoln Avenue culvert, $26,637 to buy a vehicle for the Planning Department, $129,787 for purchase of three police vehicles, $70,499 for purchase of a fire vehicle, $27,557 for a Public Works Department building, $66,623 for buying a Street Department roller, $119,882 for buying a backhoe and loader, $129,456 for buying a dump truck, $81,701 for buying two Street Department vehicles and $38,413 for a sanitation vehicle. The city also had to spend money for replacing a culvert, upgrading street lines and manholes, purchase of additional vehicles and construction on the Clinchfield Basin. The City Council also heard the audit report for Marions ABC stores. Net ABC sales at the two stores has gone up. In addition, the local ABC stores now pay the employees a living wage in order to keep staff, said Harriett Thomas, who is the former finance director with the city and now is the finance director for the ABC stores. After hearing these reports, council agreed to accept the audit reports. In other business, the Marion City Council: Did not recognize the Citizen of the Month, even though it was originally scheduled. This will be done at a future meeting. Did not hear the report from the Marion Business Association, even though it was originally scheduled. This will be done at a future meeting. Approved the contract for engineering services for lead and copper rule revision compliance program. Agreed to advertise the citys unpaid 2023 real property taxes on March 21 in The McDowell News. Agreed to hold a planning session meeting on Monday, Feb. 19, at the new City Hall, which is the former Fifth-Third Bank building. City Manager Bob Boyette said the staff members who will work there have fully moved into the historic building. The building on North Main Street previously known as the City Hall will now be known as the City Hall Annex. Foreign ministers from West Africa are convening urgent discussions on Thursday in Abuja, Nigerias capital, to address the political turmoil in Senegal and conflicts with military leaders in three additional member nations. The extraordinary session of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) follows President Macky Salls sudden decision to postpone elections in Senegal, just a week after Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger declared they were quitting the bloc. ECOWAS has urged Senegal one of its most stable member states to return to its election timetable, but critics have already raised concerns about the organizations influence over member states that are becoming increasingly resistant. Last month, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, already suspended from ECOWAS, announced their joint withdrawal, worsening a diplomatic headache for the West African bloc. ECOWAS was formed in May 1975 in Lagos. The only other member to withdraw before now was Mauritania in 2000. 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 Black women in the U.S. were, on average, six times more likely to be murdered than their white peers over the past 20 years, according to a new analysis published in The Lancet. The study is the first to analyze homicide trends spanning two decades among women aged 25 to 44the ages when women are most likely to be murdered. It also indicates that Black women are more likely than white women to be killed by guns. It is well known that homicide rates among Black women in the U.S. are disproportionately high compared to white women and that Black women tend to be murdered at younger ages and at higher rates than other women of color in the U.S., including Native American and Alaska Native women. Despite this, data on the disparities remains limited. "As a scholar whose research examines intimate partner violence, I have long known that there were disparities in homicide rates between Black and white women." "To uncover the fact that Black women are murdered at rates as high as 20 to 1 in some states is heart-breaking and underscores the urgent need to make substantive structural shifts," says Dr. Bernadine Waller, lead author of the paper and a National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) postdoctoral research fellow in the Psychiatry Department at Columbia University Irving Medical Center with a dual appointment at New York State Psychiatric Institute. Recent evidence suggests a strong link exists between higher homicide rates and the effects of deeply entrenched racial inequitieswhich manifest through factors such as educational attainment, unemployment, and wealth distributionacross the U.S. This suggests that measures to reduce structural racism in the U.S. could help prevent elevated rates of homicide among Black women. Understanding how disparities in homicide rates change over time at state and regional levels may help identify areas where intervention is needed most. To address this gap in knowledge, the authors used CDC WONDER public health data to carry out a cross-sectional analysis of homicide death rates for Black and white women in the U.S. between 1999 and 2020. The analysis focused on women aged 25-44 years in the 30 states with enough homicides (more than nine in any year) for analysis. Results were produced for five time periods: 1999-2003, 2004-2008, 2009-2013, 2014-2018, and 2019-2020. The method of homicide was analyzed for four US regions: South, Midwest, West, and Northeast. The findings indicate that Black women in the U.S. overall had higher homicide rates compared to white women between 1999 and 2020. The overall homicide rate among Black women in 2020 was 11.6 per 100,000 population, compared with 3 per 100,000 among white women. This was virtually unchanged from 1999 when the rate among Black women was 11.6 per 100,000 compared to 2.9 per 100,000 in white women. While disparities in homicide rates fell between 1999 and 2013due to a decrease in homicide rates in Black womenthey increased from 2013 to 2020. At the state level, there were also differences in how disparities in homicide rates decreased or increased between 1999 and 2020. Homicide rates among Black women were higher than their white peers during all periods in every state analyzed. Overall, the greatest disparities were in the Midwest, where Black women in 2020 were over seven times more likely to be murdered than white women. The greatest inequities in homicide rates were in Wisconsin in 2019-2020, when Black women were 20 times more likely to be murdered than white women. Notably, states with the greatest disparities in homicide rates were in parts of the country with a high proportion of people of low socioeconomic status living close together. These areas also tend to have histories of slavery and lynching and are places where especially tense Black Lives Matter protests took place at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there are also many underlying factors involved, such as gendermales are more often responsible for intimate partner violence and shootingsbut these were not investigated in the study. "Our findings indicate that the greatest inequities are in the areas of the country where concentrated disadvantage is pronounced. Thus, focusing on historical structural racism's long-lasting legacy in the U.S. is imperative." "Efforts aimed at reducing disproportionate homicide deaths among Black women can be implemented through addressing the role of structural racism when it comes to policies and practices that increase Black women's risk and lessen Black women's access to much-needed resources," said Victoria A. Joseph, a co-author of the paper and Data Analyst at Mailman School of Public Health Epidemiology, Columbia University. Gun deaths among Black and white women in the U.S. increased, with women in general more than twice as likely (odds of 2.44) to be killed by firearms in 2019-2020 compared to 1999-2003. However, Black women were more likely than white women to be killed by a firearm (odds of 1.38). The odds of gun deaths among Black women increased over time compared to white women. In 2020, Black women in the Northeast were three times more likely than white women (odds of 3.30) to be killed by a firearm, while firearm homicides among Black women in the Midwest were more than seven times higher (odds of 7.22) than among white women. In the South, Black women were around one and a half times (odds of 1.51) more likely to be killed by a firearm. The West's sample size was too small to be included in this part of the analysis. "Available data indicate that homicides in the U.S. continued to escalate in many areas of the country during the COVID-19 pandemic, which also intersected with widespread national protests after the murder of George Floyd." "These trends reflect systems that have long disservice communities of color and underscore that sustained investment and vision to support underserved communities are critical to reverse racial injustices that impact health and well-being," said Katherine Keyes, senior author of the paper and Professor of Epidemiology at Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University. The authors acknowledge some limitations to their study. Data was not available for all 50 US states as the number of homicides in some states was too low for analysis. Therefore, the findings apply only to the states analyzed. Homicides are reported to have increased substantially between 2019 and 2020, particularly among Black populations. However, the study may underestimate current disparities in homicide rates as data for 2019 and 2020 were combined for reporting purposes. Evidence from previous studies indicates that violence caused by a current or former partnerespecially against womenincreased during the COVID-19 pandemic, but data beyond 2020 was not available in this study. Black women are a diverse group, including African American women, African, Afro Caribbean, Black Hispanic, and Black European women, but reporting methods did not allow for analysis of disparities within subgroups. Writing in a linked comment, Rebecca F Wilson and Janet M Blair of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), who were not involved in the study, said, "All homicides, including those of women, are preventable. The findings from Waller and colleagues' study provide the visibility needed to address the public health crisis of homicides of women and the inequities in homicide experienced by Black women." They highlight the importance of enacting state-level legislation to tackle the disparities in homicide rates among Black women, saying, "These legislative efforts offer a beacon of hope that the disproportionate homicide of Black women will be addressed as a crisis of epidemic scale alongside the already recognized epidemic of homicides among Black men and boys." More information: Bernadine Waller et al, Racial inequities in homicide rates and homicide methods among Black and White women aged 2544 years in the USA, 19992020: a cross-sectional time series study, The Lancet (2024). DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(23)02279-1. www.thelancet.com/journals/lan (23)02279-1/fulltext Journal information: The Lancet 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 A research paper published today in The Lancet Oncology demonstrates that the drug enobosarm, a selective androgen receptor modulator that stimulates the male sex hormone receptor, has anti-tumor effects in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer patients. Lead author Professor Carlo Palmieri from the University of Liverpool and The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre NHS Foundation Trust, said, "These results are very encouragingwe have shown that in advanced/metastatic breast cancer the use of enobosarm can result in clinical benefit, and is the first clinical proof that a non-estrogen receptor approach with a selective androgen receptor modulator can result in clinical benefit. This builds on the pre-clinical evidence that we published in Nature Medicine." For at least 40 years, treatment of this type of breast cancer has focused on directly targeting and inhibiting the activity of the estrogen receptor. This new study, therefore, tested a completely different approach. The orally administered drug enobosarm is a selective androgen receptor modulator, which can stimulate androgen receptor activity in breast cancers. The androgen receptor is a tumor suppressor in estrogen receptor positive breast cancer. The multi-site international study led by Dr. Beth Overmoyer of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute of Boston U.S. evaluated the efficacy and safety of enobosarm in 136 postmenopausal women with locally advanced or metastatic ER-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer (HER2 is a protein called human epidermal growth factor receptor 2, which promotes the growth of cancer cells). Enobosarm was found to have anti-tumor effects, as well as being well tolerated with no significant impact on quality of life. "These data support further development and assessment of the efficacy of enobosarm and other agents which stimulate the androgen receptor for the treatment of AR-positive, ER-positive, HER2-negative advanced breast cancer," according to the research. More information: A Phase 2 open label randomized study of enobosarm, a novel oral, 1 selective androgen receptor modulator, in androgen receptor-positive, oestrogen receptor-positive, and HER2-negative advanced breast cancer, The Lancet Oncology (2024). doi.org/10.1016/S1470-2045(24)00004-4 Journal information: Nature Medicine , Lancet Oncology 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: Identification of drug repurposing candidates. A Screening and validation procedure. B HEp-2 cells were infected with rHRSV-A-GFP29 in presence of 5 M compound. 48 hours later, infection and cell viability were quantified via GFP and MTT readouts. Dotted lines indicate primary hit criteria, and dots represent means of two technical replicates. C HEp-2 cells were infected with HRSV-A-Luc29 at MOI 0.01 and treated with the indicated compound concentrations. 24 hours later, supernatant was transferred onto new cells for a second round of infection. Luminescence was quantified 24 hours post-inoculation of both infection rounds. Cell viability was measured via MTT readout in treated but uninfected cells. Mean SD of three independent experiments. Known RSV inhibitors (F protein: presatovir; N protein: RSV604, IMPDH inhibitors (AVN944, mycophenolic acid), HSP90 inhibitors (radiciol, HSP990). 4-Sulfocalix[6]arene Hydrate (4SC6AH, unknown target). Source data are provided as a Source Data file. Credit: Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45241-y Every year in the winter months, there are waves of infection with RSV. In healthy adults and adolescents, the infection is usually harmless. Not so with small children: Around 1% of them who are exposed to the pathogen for the first time become so seriously ill that they have to be hospitalized. It can also cause serious illness in adults over the age of 65 due to pre-existing heart or lung conditions. Vaccines have been authorized for older people and pregnant women since 2023, but there is currently no direct antiviral therapy against the RS virus. In order to discover new active substances against certain pathogens, researchers search through large collections of already known and clinically tested substances. This process is known as a "drug repurposing screen" and examines additional application areas for already-known pharmaceuticals. A team from the Institute of Experimental Virology at TWINCORE, Center for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, in Hanover, led by Thomas Pietschmann, used this method to search the ReFRAME Library of the Scripps Research Institute (U.S.) for potential new RSV drugs. This substance bank contains around 12,000 active substances that are in clinical development or have already been approved. "To screen the library, we used a so-called reporter virus that is labeled with the fluorescent protein GFP," says Pietschmann. "A lack of fluorescence reaction in this test indicates an antiviral effect." At the same time, all substances were also analyzed for their toxicity. Only those that do not have a cell-damaging effect are shortlisted. The tests were carried out automatically using a pipetting robot in collaboration with the Institute of Virology at Hannover Medical School. "Otherwise, it is almost impossible to sift through a collection of several thousand substances," says Sibylle Haid, a scientist at the Institute of Experimental Virology and co-corresponding author of the study. From an initial 21 remaining candidates, the scientists focused on the active substance lonafarnib, which is approved for treating Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome. People affected by this rare genetic disease age prematurely and die earlier, on average, at 14.5 years of age. "Lonafarnib inhibits a specific maturation step of proteins in the cell," says Haid. In order to characterize the mechanism of action against the RS virus more precisely, the researchers tested another farnesylation inhibitor called tipifarnib and compared the results. "Tipifarnib does not work against RSV," says Haid. "From this, we were able to conclude that the antiviral effect of lonafarnib is probably not based on the inhibition of farnesylation." With the help of cooperation partners Anna Hirsch from the Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS) and Thomas Krey from the University of Lubeck, the team was able to elucidate the molecular structure of the virus-drug complex. Lonafarnib binds to the fusion protein of RSV and thus prevents the virus from fusing with the membrane of the target cell. As a result, no new cells can be infected. In cooperation with colleagues in France, a reduction in viral load has already been demonstrated in the mouse model. "However, the dose of lonafarnib required for oral administration is very high, so we have also observed side effects," says Pietschmann. "It is conceivable that local application, for example, by inhalation, could improve the ratio between effect and side effect. This must be carefully examined in follow-up studies." "With lonafarnib, we have identified an interesting candidate for the treatment of RSV," says Svenja Sake, first author of the study. "Because the drug has already undergone all clinical trials, approval for the new indication would be much easier, cheaper, and faster than for a completely new active substance," she says. "This study is also another great example of teamwork, as is usual in science," says study leader Pietschmann. "We are networked with many of the cooperation partners in the RESIST Cluster of Excellence, for example." The work is published in the journal Nature Communications. More information: Svenja M. Sake et al, Drug repurposing screen identifies lonafarnib as respiratory syncytial virus fusion protein inhibitor, Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45241-y Provided by Zentrum fur Experimentelle und Klinische Infektionsforschung This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: CC0 Public Domain Children who experience eating difficulties, including undereating, overeating, and fussy eating are more likely to experience picaan eating disorder characterized by eating non-food items such as paper or soapfinds new research by Cardiff University. In collaboration with the Center of Excellence for Eating Disorders at the University of North Carolina and the Eating Disorders Research Unit at the Capital Region of Denmark Mental Health Services, a new study has improved the understanding of the prevalence of pica across different stages of childhood and gained insights into other conditions that occur alongside pica. The study is published in the International Journal of Eating Disorders. Dr. Samuel Chawner, Cardiff University's School of Medicine, said, "Pica is a feeding disorder in which someone eats non-food substances that have no nutritional value, such as paper, soap, paint, chalk, or ice. It's a serious feeding and eating disorder, but research into pica is very limited. In order to improve support for those who experience pica, we need to better the understanding of its prevalence in the population." The researchers used data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children, an ongoing population-based birth cohort study that started in the 1990s to investigate various factors influencing the health and development of children. The Cardiff researchers analyzed data from over 10,000 caregivers in the Avon study, to investigate the prevalence of pica in the population. The study showed that pica was most common in children at 36 months, with 2.29% of caregivers reporting pica for their child, and pica was seen to decrease as children aged. It was found that those with autism and developmental delays were more likely to experience pica than those without. Additionally, the researchers found that pica behaviors may be associated with broader eating difficulties. "We found that the presence of pica was not related to the child's BMI, and therefore clinicians should screen for pica behaviors in children of all weights and sizes. "Our findings also showed that children who exhibit undereating, overeating, and food fussiness were more likely to experience pica, and this may represent a group to focus on to monitor potential pica behavior. Children with developmental delays or autism may also benefit from pica screening and diagnosis. "Our research has enriched our understanding of the prevalence of pica across different stages of childhood in the general population. It also gives us clearer insights into other conditions that co-occur with pica. This will help clinicians to provide better support to children who experience pica, and their caregivers, in the future," added Dr. Samuel Chawner. "I think this research helps us get one step closer to developing more tailored treatment options for children with pica since we have a better idea of how these behaviors present and persist throughout early childhood," added Dr. Natalie Papini, University of North Carolina. "While our research has shed light on some of the causes of pica, it's important to stress that not all children who are fussy eaters, overeat or undereat, will develop the conditiona number of factors could be behind eating practices. Any parent who has concerns about their child and their eating should contact their health care provider." More information: Natalie M. Papini et al, Prevalence and recurrence of pica behaviors in early childhood within the ALSPAC birth cohort, International Journal of Eating Disorders (2023). DOI: 10.1002/eat.24111 This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: CC0 Public Domain The largest ever study of autistic people's priorities has revealed a desire to focus research on mental health, post-diagnosis support and social stigma. The majority of funding for autism research is currently spent on biological studies and on the search for treatments and a cure. New research by the University of Stirling has found that autistic people's priorities for research lie elsewhere. More than 200 autistic people in Scotland were surveyed by psychology researchers based in the University's Faculty of Natural Sciences. Quality of life Dr. Monique Botha, a co-author of the study, said, "Most research tends to treat autistic people as a homogenous group, but it is important not to treat all autistic people as the same, and to acknowledge the other factors influencing autistic people's lives. "The aim of this study was to work with autistic people, who live in Scotland, to understand what they want from autism research. "We found that autistic people want applied research into diagnosis, mental health, and topics which can enable a good quality of life. "Autistic people who participated also highlighted a deep desire for the research that is done to either be led by autistic people, or be conducted in participatory ways alongside autistic people, because it's something that affects their lives." Prior to this study, only one autistic person for every 11 non-autistic people in priority settings studies were asked about how they would like funding spent in autism research. Roadmap toward change Lead researcher Dr. Eilidh Cage said, "Autistic people face diagnostic disparities and a lack of service the whole way through the diagnostic process. They are more likely to have mental illness and are more likely to die by suicide. "They often do not qualify for services in the community, face higher rates of unemployment and underemployment, are more likely to be victimizedincluding by caregivers, peers, and romantic partnersand are more likely to drop out of or be excluded from education. "This piece of research outlines a roadmap towards change which could be meaningful, but its impact is not limited to Scotland. As the single largest study of autistic people's priorities for autism research, it has the ability to influence research agendas across the U.K., and globally." The Scottish Government is currently consulting on proposals for a Learning Disabilities, Autism and Neurodivergence Bill. Dr. Botha added, "This research has the potential to influence the priorities that the Scottish Government sets for the next decade." The paper, "What are the autism research priorities of autistic adults in Scotland?" was published in Autism. Cross-sectional survey The research was conducted by the Striving to Transform Autism Research Together, Scotland (STARTS) group, a collaborative of researchers and autistic people from across Scotland, led by Dr. Eilidh Cage, Dr. Monique Botha and Dr. Catherine Crompton (University of Edinburgh). Together, they created a cross-sectional survey. A total of 225 autistic people from almost all council areas in Scotland participated during May and June 2022. The survey, which also included 50 autistic caregivers of autistic children, involved ranking and rating the importance of 25 different research topics. The survey also asked participants to elaborate in open text boxes about any other topics that should be studied, and what questions should be studied based on their top three highest ranked topics. More information: Eilidh Cage et al, What are the autism research priorities of autistic adults in Scotland?, Autism (2024). DOI: 10.1177/13623613231222656 Journal information: Autism 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: Spatial distribution of the estimated percentage of (a) strains included in D12 clusters and (b) strains included in D5 clusters. Blue dots illustrate the spatial location of each strain and red dots illustrate the location of strains linked to current or prior history of imprisonment. Credit: The Lancet Regional Health - Americas (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.lana.2024.100674 Tuberculosis, the main cause of death due to a single pathogen globally, causes more than 1.5 million deaths each year. New research from the University of Cincinnati finds that being in prison or being a former prisoner is responsible for high rates of multidrug-resistant (MDR) TB. The study was published in The Lancet Regional HealthAmericas. "Tuberculosis is a huge public health problem globally, and there are about a half million people who are diagnosed with MDR-TB every year," says Moises Huaman, MD, of the Division of Infectious Diseases at the UC College of Medicine. "MDR-TB is difficult to treat; these patients may require longer treatments, and the risk of treatment failure and death are higher." MDR-TB is tuberculosis that is caused by a strain of bacteria that is resistant to isoniazid and rifampicin, the two core antibiotics of first-line TB treatment. The research is a collaboration between UC, the Center for Technological, Biomedical, and Environmental Research (CITBM) in Peru, the Research Center Borstel in Germany, and researchers in Brazil, Spain, and Italy. The investigators sought to identify resistant patterns and key drivers of recent MDR-TB transmission in a TB-prevalent area of Peru. "We were interested in understanding how MDR-TB is transmitted in hot spots in Lima/Callao, Peru," says Huaman, who is also the medical director of the Hamilton County TB Control Clinic. "We studied 171 TB strains from 2017 to 2019 that were processed in Callao. All those strains were coming from patients diagnosed with MDR-TB. Some of those strains were coming from individuals who were in prison. We found that transmission of MDR-TB is very common in the area. One of the main factors associated with transmission of MDR-TB is either being in prison or having been in prison before." The researchers identified molecular resistance patterns and defined recent transmissions. "TB is a disease where if an individual is exposed to the bacteria in prison, this person may not get sick until once they are back out in the community," says Huaman. "That shows that even though the transmission may happen in prisons, MDR-TB and the potential for further spread goes beyond the prison borders and expands into the community. "Our research identifies prisons as a main driver of the MDR-TB epidemic, and that's important because then you can intervene. You can plan TB screening and control strategies that are focused on prison. Furthermore, having systems through which you can also do screening after people are released from prison is important." Huaman says a second important finding from the research is that it contradicts traditional thought that the MDR-TB epidemic was primarily driven by patients not taking the medications as prescribed. He says that most of the cases included in the study resulted from the primary transmission of MDR-TB strains, and a main source of that transmission was prisons. Hopefully, says Huaman, this will lead to more focused interventions. "There are ongoing efforts to control TB, and I think our data will help the global community get a step further on how important it is to control the MDR-TB epidemic in prisons," he says. "Our group and others are looking into what are the most cost-effective interventions for TB control and elimination. [For] a disease that links lower socioeconomic conditions and disadvantaged populations, [it's critical] to be able to put together interventions that are sustainable for these vulnerable populations." More information: Christian Utpatel et al, Prison as a driver of recent transmissions of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis in Callao, Peru: a cross-sectional study, The Lancet Regional HealthAmericas (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.lana.2024.100674 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: Caio from Pexels While marriage can be hard work, a new survey suggests it can also be a powerful elixir for happiness. Adults who are married report being more satisfied with their lives than those in any other type of relationship, the Gallup poll showed. "Any way you analyze those data, we see a fairly large and notable advantage to being married in terms of how people evaluate their life," poll author Jonathan Rothwell, principal economist at Gallup, told CNN. In the survey, which included data spanning from 2009 to 2023, more than 2.5 million American adults were asked how they would rate their life, with zero being the worst rating and 10, the highest. Then, respondents were asked what they thought their happiness level would be in five years. To be considered thriving, people had to rank their present life as a seven or higher and their future life as an eight or higher. Over the survey period, married people consistently reported higher happiness levels, ranging from 12% to 24% higher depending on the year. The gap remained even when researchers adjusted for age, race, ethnicity, gender and education. Experts offered up a few reasons why marriage might be integral to happiness. "At its bare minimum, the concept of commitment implies the experience of being bonded with another. At its very best, it means being bonded with someone who is a consistent, safe and secure home base that will be there for you in the face of any adversities," Boston psychologist Monica O'Neal told CNN. Things like race, age, gender and education matter, Bradford Wilcox, director of the National Marriage Project at the University of Virginia, told CNN. "But marriage seems to matter more than those things when it comes to something like this measure of kind of living your best life," he added. "We're social animals," Wilcox said. "And as Aristotle said, we are hard-wired to connect." Ian Kerner, a licensed marriage and family therapist, told CNN that happiness in marriage might stem from what people expect of it. "In my practice over the last decade I've noticed a gradual shift from the 'romantic marriage' to the 'companionate marriage,' meaning that people are increasingly choosing spouses at the outset who are more like best friends than passion-partners," Kerner said. That means many people are choosing partners based on qualities that promote stability and satisfaction, he added. But Rothwell noted that it is hard to say whether marriage is the actual reason for higher levels of happiness. It could be that people who have qualities that lead to more happiness are also those who seek out marriage, the survey noted. And O'Neal doubts that being in an unhappy marriage would deliver the same benefit. "I still believe that those who have unhappy marriages are probably less happy than those who are single," she said. More information: Harvard Health has more on marriage and health. Copyright 2024 HealthDay. All rights reserved. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Primary Care in New Jersey: Findings and Recommendations to Support Advanced Primary Care (2024) A shortage of primary-care doctors endangers United States residents in general and New Jerseyans in particular, according to a report co-authored by Alfred Tallia, chair of the Department of Family Medicine and Community Health at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. "Anyone who has tried to schedule a nonemergency visit understands the problem," Tallia said. "Existing patients often wait months; others struggle to find a doctor who's even taking new patients. Lots of people get no care until small problems grow into emergencies." "Most of this problem stems from money," added Tallia. "Primary-care doctors make way less than specialists across the U.S., so we have too few primary-care doctors relative to the number of specialists. Primary-care doctors make even less in New Jersey than in other states, so the ones we train here tend to move elsewhere, and the shortage is worse in New Jersey than in other states." Primary care has been proven to reduce mortality, serious health conditions, population health disparities, and health care costs, Tallia said, yet it remains underfunded, particularly in New Jersey. According to the report"Primary Care in New Jersey: Findings and Recommendations to Support Advanced Primary Care"slightly less than a third of practicing physicians in the U.S. provide primary care, compared with more than half of physicians in the 38 countries that make up the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). The share of U.S. health care spending devoted to primary care declined from 6.5 percent of total health spending in 2002 to 5.4 percent in 2016 to 4.6 percent in 2020, while such spending remains at 7.8 percent or more in other OECD countries. New Jersey, in turn, underspends on primary care compared with other states. New Jersey Medicaid pays primary-care doctors half of what Medicare pays. Commercial insurerswho pay primary-care providers an average of 120 percent of Medicare rates nationwidepay an average of 93 percent of Medicare rates in New Jersey. Some small New Jersey practices with little leverage to negotiate higher reimbursement with insurance companies receive 75 percent of Medicare rates. In fact, New Jersey ranks 48th out of the 50 states in primary care spending. Lower pay leads many primary-care doctors who train in New Jersey to leave the state. New Jersey ranks 10th nationally in primary-care residents and fellows but is 32nd nationally in retaining those people after they complete their training. According to 2023 survey data from the state Board of Medical Examiners, New Jersey has about 5,300 doctors in the primary-care fields of family medicine, general internal medicine, and geriatrics. But half of them work full-time. The report, compiled for the New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute by representatives from health care providers and insurers, recommends three major steps to end the shortage and help New Jersey residents gain easy access to primary care that should help them live longer and healthier lives. The state should: Raise Medicaid reimbursement rates for primary care to Medicare levels and direct Medicaid Managed Care Organizations to do likewise. Use its regulatory power to begin shifting doctor compensation from the historical fee-for-service model and toward an advanced primary-care model, where doctors get money to keep patients well rather than simply treating them when they are sick. Better track caregiver numbers and medical expenditures and use the data to track improvements. Tallia said the effort to move from fee-for-service to advanced primary care echoes a major national report authored by a group that included Rutgers Health Vice Chancellor Shawna Hudson that aims to extend U.S. lives "by bringing our primary care practices into line with those in countries where people are much healthier than they are here." "The other recommendations are New Jersey specific, and they can ease the worst of the problems here in New Jersey," Tallia added. "We've seen several other states, including Oregon, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, work to ease major primary care shortages by adjusting rates." Avalanche danger has eased across much of western Montana, but triggering a potentially deadly slide remained possible Friday and into the weekend and danger remained high south of Bozeman. After warm temperatures and rain across the area significantly reduced snowpack stability two weeks ago, a return to more seasonable temps and moderate snowfall the past week brought some stability to western Montana's mountains. But avalanche danger remained elevated Friday in places that received the most new snow, such as around Seeley Lake and the Swan Range. And in south-central Montana, an avalanche warning was in effect in the southern Madison and Gallatin mountains, and around West Yellowstone and Idaho's Centennial Range. There, new snow in recent days combined with a few feet of new snow in recent weeks was overloading an exceptionally weak snowpack, making large, deadly avalanches almost certain. Avalanches were also likely in the northern Madisons and Gallatins, in the Bridgers and around Cooke City. "Weve been warning you about the remarkably weak snow lower in the snowpack all season and it is now being put through its biggest test yet. Its not handling it well," the center wrote in Friday's forecast. "On Wednesday, snowmobilers in Tepee Basin triggered an avalanche from a distance that broke 4 feet deep and a mile wide. This is a huge avalanche, the biggest weve seen all season. Carefully ponder what it would mean to trigger a similar slide before even approaching the runout zone beneath a steep slope today." Danger was lower in the western part of the state. Around Missoula, the West Central Montana Avalanche Center, which covers an area from Lost Trail Pass to around Seeley Lake, stated Friday that storm-slab avalanches of new snow were possible, particularly in areas where wind caused snow to accumulate deeper, such as the downwind side of ridges or saddles. Avalanches of loose new snow were also possible in steep terrain. The center's forecast area received 2-7 inches of new snow Thursday, with snowfall favoring the Rattlesnake and Seeley areas. About 1-3 inches were expected Friday before drier conditions over the weekend. Beneath the potentially touchy storm slab at the surface, the center warned, could be a persistent weak layer near the base of the snowpack. It's unlikely a backcountry traveler could trigger a slab avalanche on the weak layer, but such an avalanche would be large with significant consequences if it happened. Persistent slab avalanches were most likely above 6,500 feet elevation and on northerly aspects where old, unstable snow lurks near the ground, according to the forecast. But previous warm temps and rain also left some wet, unstable snow near the ground on southerly aspects, too. "The sensitivity of this problem has decreased, but the consequences of any avalanche triggered remain high," forecaster Arden Feldman wrote. "You aren't likely to experience signs of instability like collapsing or whumpfing as you travel through the mountains. Tracks on a slope are not indicators of stability avalanches may be triggered after many riders have crossed a slope. "The best way to identify the problem is to dig in the snowpack and look for poor structure with a firm slab on top of weak, unconsolidated snow. If you find this, individual risk tolerance will dictate how steep of a slope you are willing to expose yourself to. However, if you want to avoid the problem, we recommend sticking to slopes less than 30 degrees in steepness. Short of that, you can reduce your risk by avoiding large avalanche paths and those with ugly consequences if you are caught in a slide." Avalanches are possible on any slope 30 degrees or steeper, and can be triggered remotely and without warning from above, below or adjacent to a slope that steep. Avalanches are most likely to begin on slopes between 35 and 45 degrees. Avalanche problems associated with wintertime snowpack generally involve dense layers of snow with weak layers of crusts or sugary snow crystals between the slabs. The weak layers, often of angular, faceted crystals that don't hold together, can act like dominoes: If a trigger such as a backcountry traveler impacts the layer, the resultant collapsing of the weak layer can propagate outward from the trigger point. That propagation allows for a slide to be triggered from above, below or to the side of a slope 30 degrees or steeper. Once an avalanche is triggered, the weak layer can act more like marbles, allowing a potentially massive amount of snow to accelerate downslope with significant destructive force. On Wednesday a backcountry skier triggered and was caught in a slab avalanche while descending a couloir southwest of Lake Como in the southern Bitterroot Mountains. According to a public observation the skier submitted to the avalanche center, they were able to ski out of the tumult of snow as it slid about 700 vertical feet down the mountainside. In addition to their own staff forecasters, avalanche centers rely on public observations of snowpack conditions or avalanches to help inform their understanding and forecasting of avalanche danger across broad and diverse areas. Observations are anonymous and can be submitted via the centers' websites. Farther west of Missoula, around Idaho's Silver Valley and in the mountains of far-northwest Montana and the Idaho Panhandle, wind slabs were the main concern Friday. The Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center cautioned that such avalanches were possible at high elevations, particularly on southern, eastern and northern slopes that were downwind in recent days, but that such slides would likely be small. "These instabilities in the snowpack surface are likely to be fairly small and unlikely to bury you," Forecaster Ben Bernall wrote, "but the potential consequences of taking a ride in steep terrain should be in the forefront of your mind." New snow was a greater concern in the Swan Range, according to the Flathead Avalanche Center. While avalanches were unlikely or possible across the rest of the center's forecast area in the Whitefish Range and around Glacier National Park potentially large storm slab avalanches were likely in the Swan Range. Dry-loose slides of new snow were also likely. "Heavy snowfall and wind have developed dangerous avalanche conditions in the Swan Range," Forecaster Mark Dundas wrote. "Riders may encounter slabs reactive to their weight in both wind-affected and sheltered areas. Expect to trigger loose snow slides on many steep slopes. Enjoy today's powder on lower-angle terrain so you can do the same tomorrow." There are 263 tourist home short-term rentals operating in Missoula that are not registered and not in compliance with Missoulas Tourist Home Ordinance, according to Eran Pehan, the citys director of Community Planning, Development and Innovation. Thats to go along with about 125 more that are in compliance and another 50 that are a room in a housing unit thats lived in, meaning theyre not required to register. She said there may be others that the city hasn't accounted for. There are 14 that are out of compliance yet are still operating. That insight was just one nugget of interesting information that came out of a recent Missoula City Council debate over tourist homes. For several years, the city council has been looking at ways to deal with the rising number of tourist homes and study how big a role they play in the citys drastically escalating rent and housing prices, but they havent been able to agree on the best path forward other than creating an ordinance that, among other provisions, requires people to pay a fee to get their rental registered and inspected for safety. On Monday, the city council voted 10-2 to shoot down a proposal from council member Daniel Carlino to ban tourist homes in residentially zoned neighborhoods. The existing ones would have been grandfathered in, and tourist homes would still have been allowed in commercially zoned business districts. Pehan said about 54% of the 125 registered tourist homes in Missoula are in residential neighborhoods. "Missoulas rental and home prices have skyrocketed over the past few years, in part because of our lack of housing supply, Carlino told the council. Simultaneously, Missoulas supply of tourist homes has increased at unprecedented rates, which has changed the use of hundreds of residential properties in Missoula from homes for Missoulians to tourist homes for people on vacation. In 2022, a city study identified 445 short-term rental units in the city, which accounted for less than 2% of the citys housing stock. But the number of short-term rentals had risen 25% since the start of the pandemic in early 2020. The Missoula Organization of Realtors issued a statement regarding the matter to the council saying that short-term rentals allow property owners flexibility in changing circumstances and that the ability for a property owner to offer a short-term rental also actively contributes to community growth, vibrancy and fosters economic development. The organization said that as of October 2023, its data showed that there are about 587 short-term rentals in Missoula, which is around 1.5% of the total housing stock in the city. It is noteworthy that this percentage has remained relatively stable since the initial tracking began in 2021, wrote Brint Wahlberg, the organizations board president. A percentage of less than 2% of housing stock seems to be very insignificant in contrast to some other Montana communities. A more impactful data point is the changes that have occurred in the rental vacancy rate. Measured at 4.4% in Q3 of 2023 compared with 1% in Q3 of 2022, this higher rate could directly be attributed to the number of multi-family projects permitted in 2021 and 2022, resulting in approximately 1,750 new units beginning to enter the market. Carlino only got one other city council member, Kristen Jordan, to vote for his proposal. The rest of the city council members were lukewarm to the idea, with many saying that the citys ongoing code-reform process is the best way to address the issue. Were doing comprehensive code reform right now, which offers a lot and we need to spend time and intention on it, said city council member Gwen Jones. And we have a limited runway with our consultants, so I really dont agree with bringing one-off items when youre in the middle of a holistic process. And I hope that we dont see anymore (one-off items) because the focus is on code reform and doing that well to get the intended results of more housing accepted by the community as inexpensively as possible. So Im not in support of what this referral wants. Pehan said her staff are turning their attention to getting all those non-compliant tourist homes permitted. As our compliance team has gained back not a lot but a little bit of capacity dedicated to addressing the impacts of urban camping that we were expending through the summer and fall, theyve been working to assess the landscape and identify barriers to compliance with our tourist home ordinance, she said. Carlino said he hopes the council moves fast to allow more housing to be built in Missoula. If were not going to regulate the number of short-term rentals in Missoula we must be changing our zoning and land use codes to allow housing to be built right now, he said. You can build a short-term rental in Missoula more places than you can build a duplex, more places than almost any other type of business. Right now our land use codes are blocking housing all over town so if you all want to leave this up to the free market, then we must allow more housing to be built by changing our zoning map and land use codes exponentially. Missoula fire crews responded to a residential fire in Upper Pattee Canyon on Thursday morning. A Missoula County Sheriff's Office deputy was dispatched to the 2400 block of Larch Camp Road around 9:38 a.m. for a report of a burglar alarm, but instead found an empty home emitting smoke, according to a press release. Missoula Rural Fire District and Missoula Fire Department responded at 10:20 a.m. and upon further investigation, crews discovered smoke on the second and third floors of the structure. Firefighting efforts were inhibited due to snow and ice covering the roadway and driveway leading to the home, the release said. Crews eventually located the fire source within the residence and extinguished the flames. Crews were on scene into the afternoon working to ventilate smoke from the home, and the cause of the blaze remains under investigation. MRFD, MFD and Missoula Emergency Services responded with two engines, one four-wheel drive type 5 engine, one ladder truck, four water tenders, one ambulance and two support vehicles. A judge accepted a plea agreement Thursday and gave a Butte man accused of starving two dogs to death a two-year deferred sentence. District Judge Kurt Krueger said as a condition of the sentence for two felony convictions of aggravated animal cruelty, 31-year-old Kurtis Frank Podgorski cannot own animals for the rest of his life. Prosecutor Mike Clague recommended the deferred sentence and animal ban and Podgorski and a public defender agreed to the terms. If Podgorsk abides by all other requirements over the next two years, including lawful behavior and completing 80 hours of community service, he can have the convictions expunged from his record. Clague said the offenses were pretty egregious conduct but there were mitigating factors. They werent reasons or excuses for the offenses, Clague said, but should be considered in sentencing. We know that what led to his conduct and his abuse of animals is that he had severe emotional distress in his life and that led to where we are here today, Clague said. He said that since the animals were found, Podgorskis conduct has been exemplary. He surrendered other animals to animal control, paid all necessary fees, admitted what he did and had a previous clean record, Clague said. Hes lived his 31 years without contact with law enforcement, Clague said. We do believe he can be a law-abiding citizen. And we know that through the investigation he was extremely remorseful with the officers, he was straight-forward with the officers and took full responsibility for his actions. Prosecutors initially charged Podgorski with three felony counts of aggravated animal cruelty after two dogs were found dead in his house in March 2023 and a third was near death from malnourishment and starvation. That dog, named Noggin, received medical attention and ultimately recovered. Podgorski later pleaded guilty to two counts and as part of the plea deal, the third was dropped. Each count was punishable by up to two years in prison and fine up to $2,500. On March 29 last year, police and animal control were dispatched to the Podgorski residence in the 300 block of Granite Mountain Road. They were called after a male family member reportedly opened a back bedroom door and found two dead adult dogs, one brown and the other black-and-white, and a young German Shepherd near death, lying atop one of the dead canines. The relative left quickly, went to a neighbor, and the neighbor went and saw the dogs and called police, according to charging documents. The relative told police he had been staying with Podgorksi for about 10 days and was told not to enter the back bedroom because it was messy and Podgorski didnt want anyone in there. He said he opened the door on March 29 because he heard a sound coming from the room. In an initial interview, Podgorski told police he had locked the dogs in the back bedroom three weeks before because he was having a hard time with life lately and just couldnt handle the dogs anymore. He also said he bought dog food every couple of weeks but admitted that it had been over a month since he had had any interaction with the animals. During that time, said he thought other people were feeding the trio and providing water. Prosecutors alleged that Podgorski had purposefully or knowingly killed or inflicted injury on the dogs with the purpose to torture or mutilate them. The surviving dog, Noggin, was severely emaciated when brought to a local veterinarian. The vet said Noggin would have passed away within two days to a week if he had not received medical intervention. During Thursdays sentencing hearing, Podgorski stood next to his public defender, Eleanor Maloney, but never spoke. He has relinquished his animals, she said. He does not intend to adopt any new animals, care for any animals, from this point forward. Podgorski has also taken steps to address all issues that led to this unfortunate series of events, she said. Kreuger said in reviewing the matter, he had to consider the nature of the offense as well as prior criminal record. As part of the sentence, Podgorski must pay $1,754 in restitution for veterinary services for Noggin. Phyllis Hargrave, a longtime animal advocate who lives in Butte, said she sent Judge Krueger a letter recently asking him to impose something harsher than a deferred sentence. She said Thursday it is good that Podgorski cant own animals anymore but she is disappointed he can get his record expunged in two years. I think that man had plenty of opportunity to find homes for his dogs or to even turn them over to a shelter. He could have walked them to the shelter, said Hargrave, who has served with the Humane Society and now volunteers at Pintler Pets. Im not buying his excuses, that he was having a hard time in life, she said. We all have hard times in our lives. Those were his dogs and he betrayed them. The collared cow stands ready to help its ungulate cousin, the Rocky Mountain elk, by doing what it does best: graze and excrete. Thats according to an analysis by the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks. FWP believes a strategic plan for cattle grazing on the Spotted Dog Wildlife Management Area northeast of Deer Lodge could benefit ranchers, the elk herd that winters there and other critters great and small. The ultimate goal is to spread livestock and elk grazing pressure more evenly across the larger landscape to benefit both wildlife and neighboring landowners, FWP said. The Montana Wildlife Federation isnt convinced. Not yet, anyway. The nonprofit says the proposed action alternative is seen as adding unnecessary risk and cost. Last month, FWP released a draft Environmental Assessment for a Grazing and Water Development Plan for the Spotted Dog WMA. The agency has allowed only limited grazing in the area in recent years. Biologists say Spotted Dog provides key habitat for elk and more than 180 other wildlife species, ranging from raptors to west-slope cutthroat trout. The Spotted Dog WMA, wedged between Deer Lodge, Garrison and Avon, covers nearly 38,000 acres. Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks bought the area in 2010 from the Rock Creek Cattle Company. Money from the states Natural Resource Damage Program funded the purchase, which was seen as a boon for wildlife and recreationists. At the time, many ranchers in the vicinity were wary. They had used the grasslands within what became Spotted Dog for grazing cattle and sheep. By agreement, Rock Creek Cattle continued grazing the lands during the 2013 grazing season. Starting in 2014, FWP rested Spotted Dog from livestock grazing. But during severe winters the elk moved onto private lands, including the McQueary Ranch. In 2019, FWP established an exchange of use grazing lease agreement, known as an EOU, with the McQueary Ranch. Under the agreement, FWP allows cattle grazing on about 2,800 acres of Spotted Dog and, in exchange, the ranch provides growing season grazing rest in one pasture and yearlong rest from cattle grazing in two pastures. As a result, forage on rested private land is available to elk during winter. The Spotted Dog Work Group, formed in 2013, observed, The primary purpose of the Spotted Dog WMA is to benefit wildlife and fish habitats and natural resources on behalf of the public. The Work Group also valued being a good neighbor with landowners and residents of Powell County. FWP reported that the Spotted Dog WMA provides most of the winter resources needed by resident elk herds, but critical winter range also exists on adjacent private lands managed for livestock production. The agency added, During severe winters, elk congregate on these private lands, conflicts occur and producers suffer significant losses. The need to mitigate these losses yet still provide critical resources for elk is evident. FWP determined that electric fencing did not provide a reliable restraint for cattle. Ultimately, the agency adopted e-collar technology, which contains collared cattle within virtual pastures via audio and electric stimuli delivered by the collars. The audio alerts the animal if it is venturing out of designated pasture and warns that it will receive an electric pulse, described by the manufacturer as safe and humane, if it doesnt retreat. The agency said the collars also will help exclude cattle from riparian areas, aspen stands and other sensitive habitat. Cows can be hell on streambanks. As envisioned, the plan for Spotted Dog also would add water sources for livestock to help keep grazing to desired locales. FWP proposes using scheduled cattle grazing treatments followed by three or four-year periods of grazing rest to accomplish what the agency describes as wildlife habitat enhancement on Spotted Dog. The grazing treatments would include cattle foraging on grass and forb plant species, trampling vegetation and depositing manure. Such disturbances can improve wildlife forage, FWP says. The goal of reintroducing managed cattle grazing to specific areas of Spotted Dog Wildlife Management Area is to attract elk away from private lands and to Spotted Dog WMA during spring green-up to benefit rangeland health on both the wildlife management area and on private lands, FWP says. The Spotted Dog Work Group recommended that cattle grazing avoid core winter range for elk. The Montana Wildlife Federation noted that the Spotted Dog WMA was placed in the public trust, ensuring quality wildlife habitat and increasing hunter activity in an area where access is shrinking. The organization observed that FWPs draft Environmental Assessment presents only two options: grazing or no grazing. We would like to see more alternatives, such as prescribed burning, considered for managing vegetation, the federation said. The Spotted Dog WMA is currently in a vegetative recovery phase after a century of heavy cattle use. The area is functioning well without cattle grazing, providing habitat for a large number of elk and other wildlife at minimal management costs. The federation also described concerns that the proposed grazing system could establish and spread invasive species, particularly cheatgrass. The Montana Stockgrowers Association did not respond to a request for comment. To review the draft EA and comment, go to fwp.mt.gov under News and Public Notices. Comment by phoning (406) 542-5500 or by emailing fwprg22@mt.gov. Comments must be received by Feb. 12 at 5 p.m. Montana Republican U.S. Rep. Matt Rosendale officially announced his run for one of the most coveted U.S. Senate seats in the nation at the state Capitol building Friday. Supporters gathered outside the Secretary of State's office with signs and stickers touting his run for Senate after months of anticipation. The group included members of the Legislature's Freedom Caucus, which last year issued a letter backing his run. Lawmakers are in town for a party convention Friday and Saturday. We are now going to kick this campaign off, Rosendale told reporters after filing his paperwork. I was able to spend some quality time with my family over the Christmas holiday to really have a deep discussion with them, to consider it under prayer. Rosendale's entrance cements what was already shaping up to be a hotly contested Republican primary as first-time candidate Tim Sheehy has garnered support since he announced his bid for the same seat last summer. The victor will take on incumbent Democratic U.S. Sen. Jon Tester in the general election. Montana's 2024 Senate race is one of the most pivotal contests in the current election cycle because the GOP is fighting to take back control of the U.S. Senate, and they see putting a Republican in Tester's seat as critical to their success. Sheehy, a former Navy SEAL and CEO of a Belgrade-based aerial firefighting company, has never run for elected office, but endorsements and fundraising numbers demonstrate that he's a formidable challenger. Sheehy is the favorite for the Republican nomination among U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke, Gov. Greg Gianforte, U.S. Sen. Steve Daines and the National Republican Senatorial Committee. The NRSC is one of the main bodies tasked with bringing a Republican majority back to the U.S. Senate. Hours after Rosendale filed, former president Donald Trump issued an endorsement of Sheehy. Rosendale's entrance into the race shakes up what the party was hoping it could have kept a simple primary. Former Secretary of State and Public Service Commission Chair Brad Johnson is also running. "Any time a major party goes from having a coronation to a street fight, thats good (for Tester)," said Lee Banville, a political analyst and professor at the University of Montana. "It means money, it means that theyre going to get beat up. So far Tim Sheehys main criticism has come from Democratic campaign ads. Now those criticisms are going to come from a Republican and that is nothing but good for (Tester)." Plus theres the idea of Tester running against someone hes already beat if Rosendale wins the primary, Banville said. A lot of the opposition research is already done against Rosendale compared to Sheehy, a political unknown before last year. If youre Jon Tester, this is all good news for you, Banville said. While Friday's announcement marks Rosendale's formal entrance to the contest, he has been involving himself in the race for months by teasing a bid while also making repeated jabs at Sheehy and his backers. Rosendale has accused the NRSC and its chairman, Daines, of unfairly coalescing around Sheehy and trying to keep Rosendale out of the race. The congressman from eastern Montana even went as far as to accuse the NRSC and Daines of sending people to bribe him out of the race. Rosendale's official entrance Friday prompted a biting statement from Daines. "Its unfortunate that rather than building seniority for our great state in the House, Matt is choosing to abandon his seat and create a divisive primary. Tim Sheehy has my full support because he is the best candidate to take on Jon Tester," Daines said in a statement through the NRSC. "Whichever party wins the Montana Senate seat will control the U.S. Senate in 2024, and Republicans cannot risk nominating a candidate who gave Jon Tester the biggest victory of his career." When the NRSC was asked how and if they will pivot if Rosendale prevails in the primary, the group declined to comment. This is Rosendale's second attempt at representing Montana in the U.S. Senate. He previously ran for the seat in 2018 when he lost to Tester by 3.5 points. I've won two elections since then," Rosendale said when asked Friday about his previous loss to Tester. "And the most important thing is my name ID and my trust factor is elevated dramatically. People know who I am, they know that I serve the way that I campaign and that has a huge factor. Rosendale has cruised to victory in his previous two House races, sometimes garnering more votes cast for him than other Republican candidates on the same ballot. Before that, he served in both chambers of the Montana Legislature and later as state auditor. Originally from Baltimore, Maryland, Rosendale has experience working in sales, as a rancher and as a real estate developer. He has historically been a hardline Republican and outwardly pro-Donald Trump, and sometimes dabbles in conspiracy theories popular among the far-right. He recently visited the former president at Mar-a-Lago and shortly after endorsed him for president in 2024. While Trump traveled to Montana four times in 2018 to support Rosendale's Senate bid, the former president has not weighed in this cycle. Rosendale, in the high-profile debate over picking a Speaker of the House a year ago, declined a phone call from President Trump trying to sway Rosendale to back Kevin McCarthy. Meanwhile, Sheehy has moved to brand himself as a "pro-Trump" conservative in recent ads and has continually sought to align himself with the former president. As a political outsider, Tim Sheehy has led men and women in war and business, winning Americas toughest battles and creating hundreds of Montana jobs. He knows what it means to have service, sacrifice, and accountability at the center of his mission, and hes humbled by the support hes received from patriots across our state who are committed to defeating Jon Tester," a Sheehy for Montana spokesperson said in a statement following Rosendale's announcement. "When others hesitated and showed disloyalty, Tim Sheehy proudly endorsed President Donald J. Trump early on and was honored to speak in support of him during his historic Iowa Caucus victory. Both successful businessmen and political outsiders, President Trump and Tim Sheehy cannot be bought and are the conservative warriors we need to put the people of Montana first, drain the swamp, and save our country from the mess Joe Biden and Jon Tester created. In his speech Friday night at the state GOP convention in Helena, Sheehy did not reference his Trump endorsement but did give a nod to party unity despite the looming primary. "We're now competitors but you've been in my home," Sheehy said. "I'll support you all the way. We're on the same team and we'll have a spirited race and whoever wins, we'll get to the finish line and we'll save this country." Rosendale was set to speak Saturday morning. Despite the in-fighting among Montana Republicans, state party Chair Don Kaltschmidt touted unity as a winning strategy at the Capitol on Friday. "Sen. Tester is a three-term winner and will be tough to beat, but I believe if we stay united and we do our job, I think we'll get the job done," he said. The Montana Democratic Party also issued a statement following the announcement. Buckle up for the battle of the out-of-staters, because Mitch McConnell and the NRSCs greatest nightmare in Montana came true. Over the coming months, Montanans are going to see how out of touch Maryland Matt and Transplant Tim are with our state, said Hannah Rehm, senior communications advisor for the Montana Democratic Party. Photos: Montana GOP converges on Helena with eyes on 2024 election cycle Former President Donald Trump endorsed Republican U.S. Senate candidate Tim Sheehy on Friday, only hours after Sheehy officially got a challenger in the primary. U.S. Rep. Matt Rosendale jumped into Montana's Senate primary earlier in the morning, after many months of teasing a bid. "I LOVE MONTANA! Tim Sheehy is an American Hero and highly successful Businessman from the Great State of Montana. He is strongly supported by our incredible Chairman of the NRSC, Steve Daines, and many other patriotic Senators and Republicans who have endorsed our Campaign to MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN," Trump said in a statement on Truth Social. "I also respect Matt Rosendale, and was very happy to Endorse him in the past - and will Endorse him again in the future should he decide to change course and run for his Congressional Seat. But in this instance, Tim is the candidate who is currently best-positioned to DEFEAT Lazy Jon Tester, and Regain the Republican Majority in the United States Senate." Sheehy and Rosendale are vying for the Republican nomination to take down incumbent Democratic U.S. Sen. Jon Tester. The GOP sees flipping Montana's Senate seat as a vital part of taking back control of the chamber in November. Former Secretary of State and past chair of the Public Service Commission Brad Johnson is also running in the primary. Jessi Bennion, a political science professor at Montana State University, said she does not think Rosendale is "toast" after Trump weighed in, but called Trump's support "huge." I still think this can be a close primary but the Trump endorsement is huge no doubt," she said. Trump won Montana by 16 points in 2020 and more than 20 points in 2016. Rosendale quickly responded to Trump's announcement. "I love President Trump. But he needs actual fighters in the U.S. Senate to enact his Agenda 47 - and thats me and not Mitch McConnells hand pick, Tim Sheehy," he wrote in a post on X. "Im going to win this primary, defeat Jon Tester in November and together we will Make America Great Again!" Sheehy, a former Navy SEAL and CEO of a Belgrade-based aerial firefighting company, has never run for elected office, but has a number of key endorsements in addition to the former president. U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke, Gov. Greg Gianforte, U.S. Sen. Steve Daines and the National Republican Senatorial Committee are all backing Sheehy. The NRSC is one of the main bodies tasked with bringing a Republican majority back to the U.S. Senate. "Tim is a Political Outsider, Strong on the Border, the Military/Vets, and our constantly under siege Second Amendment. He will stand tall in the fight against the Radical Left Democrats, who are Destroying our Country," Trump continued. "Also, he is far more likely to Defeat Lazy Jon. America First Patriot Tim Sheehy has my Complete and Total Endorsement!" This will be Rosendale's second attempt at unseating Tester; he challenged him in 2018 but lost by 3.5 points. In that race, Trump visited Montana four times to hold rallies in support of Rosendale. Shortly after filing to run at the Montana State Capitol building, Rosendale was asked about the prospect of a Trump endorsement but declined to comment, saying, "I will never discuss my conversations with President Trump with the media." Rosendale has also visited Mar-a-Lago, Trump's Florida home, multiple times in recent months. In a written statement, Sheehy said he was "incredibly proud and honored" to have Trump's support. Before and after Trump's statement, Rosendale was announcing a slew of his own endorsements, including from Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Florida; Montana Senate President Jason Ellsworth, R-Hamilton; Sen. Rand Paul, R-Kentucky; the group Gun Owners of America and more. Particularly for those on the national level, this race is about more than one candidate versus another, it's about taking back control of the U.S. Senate. When the NRSC was asked how it will respond if Rosendale prevails in the primary, the group declined to comment. Bennion said it'll be necessary for the organization to find a way to back whoever emerges. "They will absolutely have to pivot and you will see a shoring up of support around who the nominee is," Bennion said. The GOP primary election is on June 4. Photos: Montana GOP converges on Helena with eyes on 2024 election cycle Burke County Public Schools has received a $42 million grant from the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction to build a new school. NC State Superintendent Catherine Truitt announced the grant during a special joint presentation Friday held at the Olive Hill Resource Center in Morganton. Truitt said the money, which comes from the North Carolina Education Lottery, will be completely tax free. Its hard to wrap my head around that kind of money, said BCPS Superintendent Mike Swan. He said school system officials are still working to determine where exactly the new school will be constructed, but are planning for it to be built in the eastern end of the county. He said about six years ago when Mountain View Elementary School was built, it cost around $25 million. Today, though, the same school would cost about $55-60 million. With this grant and capital reserves, Swan said BCPS could be looking at a debt-free new school. It was very exciting, Swan said. We're fortunate for State Superintendent Truitt, the support that we have from our local county commissioners and our county manager, and especially the support from the school board in order to move this project forward. This is a developing story. More information will be published soon. Thursday marked the 100th day of school for students at Burke County Public Schools. Schools around the county had special themes to help celebrate the milestone and encourage learning for their students. At Valdese, Icard and Drexel elementary schools, students dressed like they were 100 years old. Ray Childers and Valdese elementary students also got to search their schools for 100 hidden pirates and tigers, respectively. Valdese Elementary School teachers have been challenged to make 100 positive calls home this month. History influences the behavior of patients and the treatment by their doctors. However, changing the ways Black men and women interact with health care professionals may save their lives. (Canva) Cancer is still one of the leading causes of death in the United States, and Black men and women have the highest mortality rate of any racial and ethnic group for all cancers combined, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Minority Health. While cancer deaths have fallen since 1991, a new analysis by researchers at Duke University has found that substantial racial and ethnic disparities persisted for many common and preventable cancers. These high rates of cancer contribute, in part, to a lower life expectancy for Black men and women. Researchers Tomi Akinyemiju and Anjali Gupta report that white Americans had a cancer death rate of about 149 per 100,000 by 2020, while Black Americans rate was 167 per 100,000. For Black men, the odds of dying from prostate cancer was twice as high as white men. For breast cancer, the racial gap widened with Black women being 31% more likely than white women to die in 2000 and 37% more likely to die from the disease in 2020. One issue is that women of color get diagnosed with breast cancer later, said Dr. Tesia McKenzie, a breast surgical oncologist at Hackensack Meridian Healths Bayshore Medical Center. There are multiple trials and studies going on to investigate why the difference exists, she said. Throughout various historical periods, numerous renowned doctors, philosophers, and scientists contributed to the development and continuation of myths and stereotypes regarding racial inferiority. Physicians like Samuel A. Cartwright wrote extensively and disparagingly about the mental health of enslaved Black people in his books, using what he saw as the mental health deficiencies of Black people to support slavery and the mistreatment of the enslaved. In Linda Villarosas chapter in The 1619 Project, she documents racism in health care to a founding father, Thomas Jefferson, who wrote in Notes on the State of Virginia, that there were distinctions between the races that nature has made. They secrete less by the kidneys and more by the glands of the skin they seem to require less sleep. Even today, some white doctors still believe Black people do not feel pain the way white people do. History influences the behavior of patients and treatment by their doctors. However, changing the ways Black men and women interact with health care professionals may save their lives, physicians said. Strong communication with health care providers, keeping a log of visits and discussions about medications are all part of the remedy to ensure all patients receive the best care possible. Dont miss an issue of our FREE Mosaic newsletter! Get it delivered each Tuesday right into your inbox Get screenings McKenzie says some women dont know the importance of getting a screening, so they dont know that if they feel something they need to tell their doctor. Even with early detection, McKenzie says Black women have these higher risk breast cancers like the triple negative breast cancers or HER2-Positive and researchers are still trying to figure out why. A patients environment and their income which is attached to health insurance and a patients ability to pay for screenings play a significant part in health care opportunities and outcomes. McKenzie says its important for women to do research and talk to their doctors because some places offer vouchers for screenings like Riverview and Bayshore Hospitals, where McKenzie has her practice. Ask questions She says women dont know what to ask, so they dont know where to start. But she said being armed with knowledge about every detail makes everything less frightening and the patient has more reference points and autonomy. The unknown is scary, but thats why were here, she said. You know, its simpler if you go in and ask, how is this going to work? If your doctor says you need to go for this specific test, ask what is that test like? Going to either your primary care doctor or your OB GYN every year is where you start. She says someone is making sure that youre staying on track. Keep a journal She also recommends keeping a medical journal no matter your age, but especially as we get older. People see more doctors and need more tests and keeping it all straight is important. Its easier if you have your doctors appointment book, she said. Just write down, I saw my OB GYN on this day, I had my mammogram and they say that I need to go for x, y and z. And then you go for those things. McKenzie says doctors offices are not perfect. She encourages patients to keep that control for themselves appointments, prescriptions, changes to drugs or dosages. Part of a patients history is not just when their last exam was, it also includes health information about a patients relatives. Knowing your family history is key, she said. Maybe someone you know passed away from this rare cancer which means you should probably get tested, McKenzie said. Volunteer for trials McKenzie recommends that Black women participate in medical trials. A lot of more emphasis has been put on having more African American women or women of color enroll in trials so that were able to figure out answers to those questions and the disparity between groups and so that we can see how certain drugs are affecting Black patients, she said. Medical oncologists and breast surgeons would be able to provide the most information and possibly help get a patient enrolled. McKenzie said patients can also look up trials online and enroll online and they are trying to get more people of color. While Black people historically have mistrusted medical trials but McKenzie said trials are now vigorously tested before patients are enrolled. Theyve done a lot better in making sure these research trials are ethical, she said. We are suffering, we see the disparities and its catching up to us, McKenzie said. And what I like to say is weve overcome so much as a people and there are many things that go on in the world that we cant control. But, in regard to what happens to us, this is something that we can take control of which is our health going to the doctor and being aware and then doing something about it. Read more health stories on Mosaic Is your Zip Code dangerous to your health? Inside N.J.s search for health care equity Discover why a doula should be a part of your health plan Legislator: My nurse bolted because she feared my gardeners | Opinion Ande Richards wants to hear from New Jerseys communities of color, people with disabilities, the LGBTQ+ communities, and those who feel underserved by traditional media. She may be reached at arichards@njadvancemedia.com. Welcome to Mosaic. Follow us on Instagram at @MosaicNJcom and on Facebook at MosaicNJcom. Although more than seven months have passed, authorities have not yet identified the deceased person whose remains were found in a remote area just outside of Elk Park. Recreationists in the area made the late-night discovery on June 26, 2023. Early on in the investigation, the Jefferson County Sheriffs Office turned over the case to the Montana Department of Justice, Division of Criminal Investigation. The state office, with the help of the Montana State Crime Lab in Missoula, has been working to determine the cause and manner of death. According to Emilee Cantrell, a spokesperson with the Montana Dept. of Justice, the crime lab is continuing to process DNA and it may be a few weeks or more before they get the results. This is a process that can take some time, Cantrell said in an email. Just like with every case, we want to make sure we get it right. As part of a 99 county tour, Iowa Attorney General Breanna stopped in Muscatine and held a roundtable discussion. Bird stop in Muscatine Friday, Feb. 2 to hold a law enforcement discussion with community leaders on how her office can help fight crime and keep Iowans safe. The meeting brought together representatives from the Muscatine County Attorneys office, Muscatine Sheriffs Office, Muscatine Police Department and other community leaders. Discussions focused on building a united front against the fentanyl crisis, ensuring justice for victims and holding criminals accountable. The group also discussed two of Birds bills aimed at strengthening public safety. The bills increase penalties for assaults on law enforcement members and heighten penalties for criminal traffickers. Crime doesnt stop at a county line, Bird said. It takes all of us working together each day to keep Iowa families safe, defend victims and lock up criminals. By working side-by-side with law enforcement heroes, I know that we are poised for better days ahead. Bird is travelling the state each week as part of her commitment to work with all 99 counties each year. The visits focus on building relationships with law enforcement officers, county attorneys and other local leaders to best serve Iowans across the state. Muscatine County was the seventh county she traveled to in 2024. WILTON A local food truck owner has taken his tacos to from hitting the road to hitting the booth. Erasmo Espinoza, owner of QuickE's, is opening a restaurant located at 1211 W 5th Street in Wilton. While the location may be new, Espinozas goal of providing his community with delicious and unique Mexican-inspired dishes remains the same. Looking back on his journey with QuickEs, Espinoza recalled how he was first given his food truck in January 2017. Although he had originally planned on traveling around to different festivals around Colorado, as his family continued to grow, it was eventually decided that they would settle down in Iowa, taking their food truck with them. Settling in Iowa lead to plenty of new QuickEs fans as well as a first place win at the 2021 Muscatine Food Truck Fight. After being here a while, we realized that a brick and mortar shop would be a lot easier and more beneficial to us, Espinoza said. He also said the new restaurant location feels like a blessing, as while it was still a long-term goal he had. A restaurant location wasnt something he was actively pursuing, Espinoza said. When the W 5th Street location became available, it was other local residents who had reached out to the spots landlord, asking that they reach out to QuickEs in the hopes of finally having a permanent location for their favorite tacos. It was an opportunity we couldnt pass up on, so in a way I think it was meant to be, Espinoza said. It was also pretty persuasive, just knowing that the community here wanted a brick and mortar location from us. When asked what some of his biggest goals were, Espinoza said that he hoped to offer a fun sit-down counter-service environment at his new location. He also plans to expand his current menu, which consists of fresh ingredients and homemade taco flavors inspired by the mix of Mexican and American flavors that he grew up on. I have a lot of ideas that Ive come up with throughout the years that Ive wanted to implement, it was just really hard to do out of an 8x16 trailer. So now we have plenty of room to prep for the week, Espinoza said. Some of the ideas he shared included the adding of different tortas to his menu, such as steak Milanese or pork loin tortas. He also hopes to eventually can his salsa and distribute it with local retailers. The possibilities are endless, and thats what Im looking forward to," he said. "Im excited to play around with the food in the kitchen and just bring a different pallet to the area. Unfortunately, with this new restaurant also comes the retiring of the current QuickEs food truck. Because moving into the restaurant location happened so suddenly, Espinoza explained, he had to take most of the kitchen and cooking equipment that he needed for it out of his food truck. The food truck also in need of a lot of maintenance that they are unable to do at this time and has gotten pretty beat up over the past few years, he said. QuickEs fans outside of Wilton shouldnt be too worried though. Last year, Espinoza said that he was able to put together a new QuickEs push-cart, which he plans to take this to events and catering jobs this year with top-selling appetizers and tacos. We have such a good following all around the Quad Cities and the Iowa City area," he said. "Im hoping that now that we have this restaurant location, well still have people stopping by on their way to work or on their way home." Espinoza also expressed his gratitude for the support hes received from the community. A lot of times when you do something for such a long time, you may start to question if youre still doing a good job. But doing a soft opening of the restaurant just the other day and seeing all the support from people who are such big fans of the food, it just kind of reminds me not to give up. QuickEs is open for lunch Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. as well as for dinner on Monday and Friday only from 4 to 8 p.m. For more information on QuickEs and its menu, residents can visit its Facebook page. Nairobi authorities had closed at least ten gas refilling premises in residential areas by Wednesday following Governor Johnson Sakajas Tuesday directive for the closure of such premises within 24 hours. Heeding Sakajas order, City Hall Askaris happily launched a crackdown in several parts of the Capital targeting gas-refilling stations operating within a 200-meter radius of residential areas. Governor Sakaja confirmed the closures on Wednesday, directing the county secretary to proceed with shutting down at least 100 more plants situated within Nairobis residential areas. Although the county government does not issue licenses to these establishments, Governor Sakaja insisted that their operation within residential estates will not be permitted. He said the closure of these premises is aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of Nairobi residents. There must be order in the city, and so far, we have closed ten gas refilling premises operating within Nairobi estates. Even If it is not the duty of the county to issue licenses to such premises, we shall not allow them within the residential estates, Sakaja said. Even if they have a NEMA and EPRA license, Nairobi County will not condone operations risking peoples lives, he added. Also Read Embakasi Gas Explosion: Raila Attributes Tragedy to Inadequate Planning and Negligence Sakaja cited an instance of a resident offering gas refill services within their house as an example, urging citizens to contribute by reporting any illicit businesses operating in proximity to their homes. Today I received a message informing me about someone refilling gas cylinders inside his house in an estate in the Buruburu area. If something went wrong and an explosion happened, how many would die? the county boss posed. In justifying the crackdown, Sakaja criticized individuals supporting the gas refilling plants and advised them to relocate these stations to industrial or other commercial areas. You know the population residing along Kinyanjui Road and Kabwagi. People are refilling gases in there, very wrong. There are many ways of making money, however, in situations where human lives are in question, we cant second-guess our decisions, Sakaja stated during the groundbreaking ceremony of Mutuini market. This comes after Interior CS Kithure Kindiki on February 2, announced a nationwide crackdown on all illegal gas refilling sites, including the demolition of those operating without a license. In a ruling that captivated the nation, the High Court delivered its verdict on the high-profile murder case of Monica Kimani, with Joseph Irungu, alias Jowie, found guilty of her murder. The case, which unfolded over several years, drew significant public attention for its shocking details and the personalities involved. Jacque Maribe, a former television presenter and Jowies ex-fiance, was acquitted of the murder charge, highlighting complexities within the legal proceedings. The ruling, delivered by Judge Grace Nzioka, cited a lack of direct evidence tying Maribe to the crime scene, instead pointing to prosecutorial missteps in charging her. Justice Nziokas ruling was anchored in a detailed analysis of the evidence presented, underscoring the gruesome nature of Monica Kimanis murder on the night of September 19, 2018. The court found that Jowie Irungu was the last person seen with the victim, placing him squarely at the scene of the crime. The judge pointed out the expert manner in which the murder was executed, noting Monicas body was discovered in a chilling state, with her throat slit and her apartment left in a disarray designed to mislead investigators. The court meticulously went through the evidence, which included the use of a stolen identity card by Irungu to access Monicas residence, his attire that matched witness descriptions from the night of the murder, and his undeniable presence at the scene. Despite these condemning pieces of evidence, the court also acknowledged the imperfections within the identification process presented by the defense, highlighting the complexities of relying solely on circumstantial evidence. While Maribe was absolved of the murder itself, the court criticized her for providing false information to law enforcement officials, an act for which she was not formally charged. This aspect of the judgment underscored the nuanced considerations the court had to navigate in determining her involvement. The directive to the Director of Public Prosecutions to reevaluate the charges against Maribe suggests potential future legal challenges and emphasizes the ongoing legal ramifications of the case. The narrative of Monica Kimanis murder, her life cut tragically short upon her return from South Sudan, where she was involved in a family business, and the subsequent legal battle involving Jowie and Maribe, has been a saga of intrigue, sorrow, and legal intricacies. The case shed light on the lives of those involved, from Monicas ambitions and her sudden, brutal murder to the tumultuous relationship between Jowie and Maribe, entwined with allegations, evidence, and legal arguments that captivated public and judicial attention alike. As the verdict was read, the evidence against Jowie painted a damning picture: his attempted destruction of evidence, the suspicious circumstances of his arrest following a self-inflicted gunshot wound, and his and Maribes inconsistent accounts of the events surrounding the murder. The prosecutions argument, built on a foundation of circumstantial evidence, sought to firmly establish Jowies guilt, while defense strategies aimed to disentangle him from the web of accusations. The ruling, while providing some closure to the tragic loss of Monica Kimani, also leaves open questions about the implications for all those involved and the Kenyan justice systems ability to navigate complex, high-profile cases. Kenya has started the process of converting the Kenya Meteorological Department into a semi-autonomous government agency. In a Thursday announcement, Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry, Soipan Tuya stated that the objective is to improve the incorporation of early warning weather and climate information technology within the institution. The directive is also anticipated to generate new revenue streams for the government. CS Tuya stated, We are in discussions with private sector partners to execute a public-private partnership that will transform the meteorology department into a semi-autonomous government agency. The CS spoke at a media briefing hosted at the Serena Hotel in Nairobi on Thursday. The announcement preceded the sixth session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-6), scheduled for 26th February to 6th March at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) headquarters in Gigiri, Nairobi. Kenya is considered a trailblazer in climate action. The Nairobi Declaration which resulted from the Africa Climate Summit and Africa Climate Week that we hosted last year are now key reference documents in multilateral policy discussions, noted CS Tuya. United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-6) At the 2023 Africa Climate Summit, African leaders identified climate change as the single greatest challenge facing humanity. They advocated for climate-positive investments as an adaptive mechanism to protect the lives, livelihoods, and assets of the continents 1.2 billion inhabitants. The CS outlined the four main priority areas that the government will concentrate on during the upcoming global summit this month. These areas encompass renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, critical minerals, and the blue economy. She also reiterated the governments commitment to adopting carbon market regulations through parliament and collaborating with county governments, private sector organizations, and waste collection associations to formalize a circular economy framework. President William Ruto is set to inaugurate UNEA-6, where more than 70 Cabinet Ministers and 5,000 delegates from around the world are anticipated to attend. The forum serves as a platform for environment experts, policymakers, civil society, private sector representatives, and community leaders to participate in high-level discussions and negotiations that influence global environmental policy. CS Tuya extended an invitation to participants to experience Kenyas cultural offerings on display at the Kenya House within the conference venue and explore the diverse tourism attractions that the country has to offer. Huawei Kenya has equipped 100 women, selected from different table banking groups in Nairobi, with digital and entrepreneurship skills to enable them to leverage the digital opportunities present in the economy. These women will, in turn, disseminate their acquired skills and information to other women within their table banking groups, enhancing digital skills across their respective groups. Huawei Kenya conducted the training in collaboration with Computers for Schools Kenya and the First Ladys Mama Doing Good women-empowerment programme. The pilot digital skills training for women, held on February 6th and 7th, 2024, not only provided the women with digital skills but also imparted entrepreneurial skills to support the growth of their businesses and enhance their incomes. The training delivered highly practical skills, focusing on demonstrating the operation of various digital social media platforms for marketing business products and services. It also emphasized ensuring safe online operations to minimize the risks of fraud. Maureen Mwaniki, the Director of Public Affairs for Huawei Kenya, affirmed Huawei Kenyas dedication as a technology leader to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to receive fundamental digital skills training, thereby enhancing their day-to-day operations. The digital training is in harmony with the continuous initiatives to digitize government services and payments via the e-citizen platform. The government has set an ambitious goal of imparting digital skills to 20 million Kenyans in the next ten years. Achieving this target necessitates the collaboration of multiple stakeholders and the implementation of highly targeted programs to address the specific needs of the Kenyan population. Should Parliament approve the 2023 Bribery (Amendment) Bill, Kenyan motorists will soon be relieved of the need to drive around with a Kes.50 note for bribery purposes, as the Bill seeks to introduce CCTVs for nationwide road monitoring. The primary goal of the Bill is to implement anti-bribery measures for the National Police Service, ultimately eliminating the presence of traffic cops on Kenyas roads. Sponsored by Bomachoge Borabu MP Barango Obadiah, the Bill proposes the installation of Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras in all areas where traffic police are stationed, aiming to eradicate the physical presence of law enforcers. The objective of the Bill is to amend the Bribery Act, 2016 by inserting a new section 10(A) which highlights anti-bribery measures for the National Police Service, Mr Barango told the Budget and Appropriations Committee during the scrutiny of the Bill. These measures include coordination of CCTV cameras in all areas where traffic police are situated, taking action against an officer accepting a bribe in the designated area, commissioning police uniforms that have no pockets, and ensuring the CCTV cameras at designated traffic areas are maintained. 8 IPOA-manned Command Centres The Bill sets up eight multi-agency command centers responsible for storing CCTV footage from designated areas. These command centers will be staffed by officers nominated by both the National Police Service and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority. The Bribery Act also establishes a framework for preventing, investigating, and penalizing bribery. It mandates both public and private entities to implement measures for preventing corruption. We need to remove the human interaction with motorists on our roads which has resulted in open bribery. The CCTVs will replace police officers in the designated traffic areas, Mr Barango told the committee. Police officers who will be stationed in the designated areas to man the CCTV command centres in eight regions of the country will not be allowed to move outside of the designated area. The scrutiny of the Bill by the committee chaired by Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro continues. More than 700 widows gathered at the Christian Foundation Fellowship church hall in Kangaru, Embu County, marking the initiation of the Widows and Orphans Program under the auspices of the Office of the Spouse of the Deputy President (OSDP) in the region. The meeting at the Christian Foundation Fellowship church hall saw the attendance of both young and elderly widows. On January 16, 2024, Pastor Dorcas Rigathi, the spouse of the Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, interacted with widows in Embu during her three-day visit to the county. Accompanying her was Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, who committed to initiating empowerment initiatives for the widows. During the gathering, Pastor Dorcas and Governor Mbarire assured the widows of upcoming programs aimed at their upliftment. Pauline Gichovi, the Director of Social Development in Embu County, addressed the assembly, outlining plans for the widows to form groups, fostering self-improvement and family well-being. RELATED Pastor Dorcas Saddened by Widows Engaging in Sex for Fish in Kisumu A delegation from the OSDP, led by Esther Waiganjo, the Director of the Widows and Orphans Program, actively participated, providing insights into OSDPs dedication to assisting widows and orphans. Waiganjo played a key role in establishing groups across different parts of the county, scheduled to engage in seminars and empowerment initiatives. We shall facilitate sessions on capacity building, social development, and economic empowerment, she said. The OSDP widows programs are not limited to Embu County; they also reach Nairobi, Nakuru, and Narok Counties. Noteworthy examples include widows in Nairobi establishing a tree nursery with around 300,000 trees. In Kajiado, they have successfully launched a tree nursery and have recently generated revenue from the sale of seedlings. Pastor Dorcas, whose upbringing was influenced by a widow, holds a profound passion for assisting widowsa commitment she has maintained since her university days. The vision of her office centers around A Dignified Future for Vulnerable Populations, with a particular emphasis on the boy child, widows, orphans, and individuals with disabilities. This vision rests on the pillars of Chaplaincy, Outreach, and Family Values, embodying a holistic approach to societal well-being. This week, many Kenyans took to social media to complain about not receiving Mpesa messages. It later emerged that the messages were going straight to spam, often without even notifying the recipient. Although the issue did not affect all Safaricom users, a substantial enough number was affected that Safaricom has now issued a solution. Apparently, this problem is only affecting phones where 3rd party messaging apps are set as the default. Which explains why only a small section of Kenyans are affected. While it is unclear which specific third-party apps are affected, the telco has released a statement offering a work-around. In a statement released Friday morning, Safaricom stated, We have noted that some of our customers are not receiving messages from Safaricom and/or M-Pesa. This issue is affecting customers with Android phones who are using third party SMS apps. This is the solution given by Safaricom. 1. Open your SMS app and check the Spam & Blocked folder. 2. Find a Safaricom and M-PESA message and unblock it. 3. All subsequent messages will go to the main inbox. Safaricom is further recommending that Android users dump these third-party apps, and instead opt for the default one as it does not have a spam folder. Thats an oversight however, as even the default app has a spam folder. Updated at 11:53 a.m. Friday Benjamin Casas was convicted on 22 counts of felony child sex abuse Thursday afternoon in Napa County Superior Court. A jury of seven men and five women found the 34-year-old Casas, who formerly worked for the Pope Valley Elementary School in rural Napa County, guilty on all charges of lewd acts and other crimes against minors younger than 14. Jurors also agreed on four enhancements to the charges that he targeted multiple victims, that the accusers were especially vulnerable, that he committed the crimes with extensive planning, and that he abused a position of trust. Casas, wearing dark pants, a dark blue shirt and black-rimmed glasses, faced forward in his chair, showing no outward emotion as the foreperson read out the guilty verdicts over 20 minutes. The jury had reached its decisions after only 2 hours of discussion. Sentencing is scheduled for March 11. Individual charges carry state prison terms of one to 10 years, but prosecutors said criminal enhancements could result in a sentence of 25 years to life. In an email Friday, Casas' public defender Andy Rubinger said he would file an appeal of the convictions after the sentencing. Casas, who has been held in the Napa County jail since his arrest Oct. 1, 2022 at his Pope Valley home, was accused of abusing three girls and two boys between 2013 and 2017, when the victims were younger than 14. One of the female accusers testified Casas had intercourse with her both in a school closet in Pope Valley and in a barn at her home, where he gave private music lessons to her and her brothers. One of the girls brothers also accused Casas of performing oral sex on him in Casas bedroom, also during a music lesson. A second male accuser said Casas hugged him against his will at the Pope Valley school in October 2015, then twice touched his leg, on one occasion saying I cant help it; youre just so smooth. Two other females accused Casas of fondling them. One, who was 9 at the time, said Casas kissed her and tried to touch her genitals during two separate incidents in 2013. Another alleged that Casas fondled her numerous times over about three years, during family gatherings at her grandparents house when he would pretend to tickle her. The 2 -week trial produced unsparing, often disturbing accounts of Casas actions over several years as a jack-of-all-trades at the Pope Valley school a K-8 academy of barely 50 students where he looked after computers, internet and sometimes groundskeeping and a spare-time guitar and music teacher. He was everybodys best friend at school; (he was) the tech guy, he hung out with the kids, Deputy District Attorney Kecia Lind told jurors during the prosecutions closing statement Wednesday afternoon. Parents trusted him; his family trusted him. He was the one everyone thought it was OK to leave their friends with. Casas' lawyer Rubinger called four witnesses, including three family members who described Casas as an honest and trustworthy person incapable of violating children. Casas cousin, Mindy Esparza, flatly denied all the allegations and declared that nothing short of video evidence could change her mind. Casas himself took the witness stand late Tuesday and then faced more than two hours of cross-examination from Lind, who asked him to account for explicit text messages and chats recovered from his cellphone and apparent web searches found on his computer for pornography involving boys. Casas admitted to cases of poor judgment about his boundaries with students at the Pope Valley school which placed him on paid leave in 2016 but denied all accusations of intercourse, molestation or other abuse. It really feels awkward when someone doesnt hug you back, he said about the hugging incident, which Casas said was an attempt to comfort the boy when he told him about being bullied for being gay. (That accuser, now in his 20s, testified he had not told Casas about his sexuality and was upset for having his phone confiscated at school.) Im not here to save my reputation my reputation is gone, Casas said at the end of the cross-examination. Im here to defend myself, to show my son I wont be pushed around by whatever this is. In addition to the five people whose accusations drove the 22 charges against Casas, prosecutors introduced four others who testified about his behavior including one who said Casas had sent him explicit text messages in 2010, when the boy was 13 and Casas 20. (The boys parents contacted Calistoga Police at the time, but declined to allow their son to be interviewed by detectives, according to a pretrial filing by prosecutors.) Casas worked at the Pope Valley school until at least April 2019, according to archived versions of the school website. Jurors found most of the evidence against Casas overwhelming, according to Juror No. 10, who served as the foreperson and spoke less than an hour after the verdict. The only charges that required in-depth discussion were two counts of lewd behavior involving the boy who said Casas hugged him and then touched his leg, because a hug in isolation would not have been objectionable, the foreperson said on condition of anonymity. Against the detailed testimony of accusers, the declarations of Casas innocence by three relatives were unconvincing, she said. To hear them say that no matter what, their minds wouldnt change, that was kind of shocking to hear, said the foreperson. I feel fine. I feel better know we have one less predator out there to protect our children from. I am happy to have given the victims some of the justice they deserved. The accusations against Casas prompted an outcry in the Pope Valley school community immediately after his 2022 arrest, as school parents demanded to know why school leaders had not shared the allegations with them earlier. At an emergency board meeting of the Pope Valley Union Elementary School District, parents attacked what they called sluggish oversight and lax treatment of Casas, who was allowed to visit the campus even after his employment ended. Shortly after Casas arrest, the Pope Valley schools former principal Ken Burkhart said the Napa County Sheriffs Office advised him to put Casas on leave in 2019 without telling him why, thus preventing him from giving parents useful information about the case. A sheriffs spokesperson pushed back on that claim, saying Burkhart himself reported suspicions about Casas to law enforcement and that the sheriffs office did not immediately have enough evidence to press charges. Casas behavior was investigated at least four times between 2010 and his arrest, prosecutors said in a pretrial filing. In a statement Thursday night, the Pope Valley school district pointed to steps it took last year, including mandatory anti-abuse and anti-harassment training for staff, mental health climate assessments for students and teachers, and starting an anonymous portal for reporting on-campus incidents. Today, we stand united in our commitment to safeguarding the well-being of every child entrusted to our care, Superintendent Kim Kern said in the news release. We remain resolute in our dedication to providing a safe and nurturing environment for our students. Our hearts go out to all those affected, and we will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that our school remains a place of trust, respect, and learning. Photos: Anger and questions after former Pope Valley school worker arrested Pope Valley Emergency School Board Meeting Pope Valley Emergency School Board Meeting Pope Valley Emergency School Board Meeting Pope Valley Emergency School Board Meeting Pope Valley Emergency School Board Meeting Pope Valley Emergency School Board Meeting Pope Valley Emergency School Board Meeting Pope Valley Emergency School Board Meeting Pope Valley Emergency School Board Meeting Pope Valley Emergency School Board Meeting Pope Valley Emergency School Board Meeting Pope Valley Emergency School Board Meeting Pope Valley Emergency School Board Meeting Pope Valley Emergency School Board Meeting Pope Valley Emergency School Board Meeting Pope Valley Emergency School Board Meeting Agartala: Six members of the banned National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) (PD group) laid down their arms and surrendered to the Tripura Police on Friday. The surrender took place at the Special Branch in Agartala, where the extremists handed over two Chinese rifles, a homemade Sten gun, six 70mm live rounds, two Chinese grenades, 15 live rounds of 7.62 caliber, two extortion notice books, and 1000 Bangladesh taka. The surrendered individuals were identified as Jatindra Tripura (36), Mokhiram Tripura (36), Romawia Reang (50), Johanjoy Reang (36) from the North District, and Pradip Tripura (27) and Mani Charan Tripura (38) from Dhalai District. They had crossed over from their hideout in Bangladesh to rejoin mainstream society. Krishnendu Chakravertty, DIGP (Intelligence), received the surrender at the Special Branch. The press release stated that the group, which had been actively operating in Bangladesh between 2017 and 2022, chose to renounce violence and embrace peace. The surrender is part of a broader trend since January 2022, with a significant number of NLFT cadres surrendering to security forces. In total, 36 active members have surrendered to Tripura Police and security forces, while eight others have been arrested during this period. With the recent surrender of six cadres, Tripura is making notable progress in becoming insurgency-free. Secretary General Stoltenberg's visit to Azerbaijan, Georgia, Armenia is historic NATO says Armenia opposition MP: PM told Tavush Province residents that 4 villages must be handed over to Azerbaijan immediately Videos of Armenia PM Pashinyan's meetings in Tavush Province to be publicized later, spokesperson says (PHOTOS) Young man throws stone at Armenia government building window Armenia premier meets with Kirants village residents of Tavush Province (PHOTOS) RFE/RL: Putin loses in Armenias Yerevan, wins in Gyumri in Russia presidential election High-tech minister on removing Russia TV channels from multiplex: Armenia's dignity is at core of decisions Kazakhstan FM considers it necessary to increase trade with Armenia Armenia, Kazakhstan FMs discuss new logistical opportunities Armenia 2041 Foundation launches Galvanizing Diaspora program Kazakhstan FM notes Armenias Crossroads of Peace projects importance for Middle Corridor Armenia, Kazakhstan FMs sign 2024/25 action plan Armenia PM is in Tavush Province, meeting with residents of Voskepar, Baghanis, neighboring villages Archaeologists find inscription of King Antiochus I of Armenian Yervanduni Dynasty, in Turkey Kazakhstan FM is in Armenia (PHOTOS) Rolls-Royce Ghost to be retired and replaced by new Alpina sedan Ardshinbank cardholders can now enjoy a 10% cashback! Withdrawal from lawsuits against Azerbaijan in international courts will cause irreparable damage to Armenia, Armenians EU Council to discuss assistance to Armenia, Armenian-Azerbaijani normalization 7,825 Karabakh residents who left Armenia since September 2023 have not returned, new data say Armenia to submit application for EU membership? Archaeologists discover where legendary British warship that disappeared in 17th century sank Large number of Russians came from Georgia to Armenia to vote in presidential election, envoy says Stoltenberg: NATO hopes to have stable peace between Azerbaijan, Armenia Belgorod attacked by two rockets during the day: there are dead and injured Media: Elon Musk's company is building a network of hundreds of spy satellites for US intelligence Shooting in Pennsylvania: at least three dead, gunman took hostages MEPs appeal to EU leadership to protect cultural heritage of Artsakh Armenians New talks between Israel and Hamas are scheduled in Qatar on Sunday India's national elections will be held from 19 April to 1 June Aliyev: Azerbaijan and Georgia have always supported each other's sovereignty Iran calls for formation of international coalition against Israel Biden told Aliyev of US commitment to peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan Stoltenberg will meet in Yerevan with the President and Prime-minister of Armenia Turkish Foreign Ministry issues anti-Russian statement on Crimea issue Zakharova: There is a historical answer to Armenia's doubts about sincerity of Russia's intentions Zakharova: Moscow discusses with Armenia dragging Yerevan into anti-Russian course Zakharova: Armenia's withdrawal from CSTO should be based on real needs of the country, not on "flirting" with West Amazon and Microsoft suspend their cloud products in Russia Dollar, euro lose value in Armenia Armenia deputy FM: There has been considerable regress regarding visa facilitation with EU Deputy FM: As landlocked country, Armenia recognizes vital importance of inclusive connectivity, open borders FM: Armenia made every effort to prevent de-Armenianization in Karabakh FM to reporters: You will be the first to know when Armenia intends to apply for EU membership Ararat Mirzoyan: All Armenia authorities have negotiated on territorial concessions to Azerbaijan FM: Deepening of Armenia's relations with the West, EU not directed against Russia Mirzoyan: Unprecedented number of senior French officials visited Armenia in 2023 Ararat Mirzoyan: Armenia, Azerbaijan are close to mutual understanding on recognition of 1991 borders Armenia made very active efforts to have minimal mutually acceptable wording with CSTO partners, FM assures FM: Georgia ready to contribute to process of establishing peace in South Caucasus Armenia FM: Events have occurred that have made it impossible to do certain things Armenia FM: Ultimate goal not materialized yet in relations with Turkey FM: There are international players interested in Armenia ceasing to exist Mirzoyan: No agreement between Armenia, Azerbaijan to withdraw international lawsuits against each other Armenia FM reiterates PM's arguments on handover of 4 villages in Tavush Province to Azerbaijan FM: Armenia still doesnt understand how CSTO partners present their area of responsibility in South Caucasus Mirzoyan: EU monitoring mission in Armenia has become factor of stability on Azerbaijan border Dennis Francis: UN hopes for signing of Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty FM: 23 Armenians still kept in custody in Azerbaijan Armenia FM: Still not many tangible results on fundamental issues, we are still negotiating with Azerbaijan European Commission official underscores provision of assistance to people affected by Karabakh conflict Peter Stano: Armenia can apply for EU membership MFA: Genocide prevention agenda is among Armenias priorities Russia holding presidential elections US intelligence warns of potentially devastating new pandemic Newspaper: Birth rate in Armenia 19% lower than last year Stoltenberg: NATO sought to maintain stronger relations with Armenia and Azerbaijan Georgian Prime Minister to visit Armenia Premier receives IMF Armenia mission chief Anne-Laurence Petel-led delegation to arrive in Armenia FM: Armenia looks into prospects of further deepening partnership with EU New technologies at the core of rural infrastructure development Russia is world leader in nuclear technology, Putin says Vardges Sureniants Salome painting returns to National Gallery of Armenia exhibition Dollar drops, euro rises in Armenia Sunak: There is historic opportunity to put an end to Azerbaijan-Armenia conflict Armenia authorities, who paid $6M for Snoop Dogg concert, still dont know when this postponed event will be held Deputy economy minister: Matter of opening India-Iran-Armenia trade corridor being discussed Armenia official: Trade with India amounted to $380M in 2023 ICC NCA head: India considers Armenia an important bridge to enter larger markets Anne-Laurence Petel welcomes resolution on EU-Armenia relations India ambassador: We are happy that our relations with Armenia are developing in defense sector also Indians are now 2nd largest community in Armenia after Russians, envoy says India-Armenia business forum kicks off in Yerevan Armenia parliament speaker on European Parliament resolution: We thank European partners for this important step PM: European Parliament resolution is another opportunity to discuss vision of Armenia's future Azerbaijans next target in Karabakh is Artsakh State University Russia deputy FM in Turkey, discusses process of normalizing Armenia-Azerbaijan relations 14-karat gold LEGO piece sells for over $18,000 Newspaper: Armenia to leave CSTO on Putin's reelection day? Young lords 1,200-year-old tomb with treasure discovered in Panama European Parliament resolution demands Azerbaijan troops withdrawal from Armenia territory European Parliament adopts resolution proposing to consider possibility of Armenia's candidacy for EU membership Russia MFA spox: We are concerned by Armenia leaderships sometimes offensive rhetoric on CSTO topics Armenia government plans to have Kapan city airport serve international flights as well Zakharova on Russian border guards removal from Yerevan airport: Hardly meets Armenia security interests Armenia defense minister, Austria envoy, military attache discuss enhancing cooperation (PHOTOS) Armenia official: Those 4 villages in Tavush Province are not in our administrative territorial division European Parliament passes resolution proposing to consider possibility of EU membership candidacy to Armenia The Kremlin comments on PM Pashinyan's statements about possibility of Armenia leaving CSTO Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyans official visit to Hungary was highly important for the bilateral relations between the two countries, according to Armenian Ambassador to Hungary Ashot Smbatyan, who summed up the results of the official visit of the President of Armenia to Budapest, Armenpress reported. Armenia and Hungary agreed to restore diplomatic relations in 2022, ten years after the ties were severed by then Armenian President Serzh Sargsyans administration after Budapest extradited Azerbaijani army officer Ramil Safarov, the convicted murderer of Armenian officer Gurgen Margaryan, to Baku. President Vahagn Khachaturyans official visit will play an important role and will be significant for the relations of the two countries. I believe that with the Armenian Presidents official visit, the Hungarian side signaled that the relations between the two countries should become stronger, the Ambassador said. Smbatyan said that two agreements in the sector of education and culture were signed during the visit. President Khachaturyan visited the Pazmany Peter Catholic University in Budapest. The Armenian State Pedagogical University and the Pazmany Peter Catholic University, which has a Department of Armenian Studies, signed an agreement on cooperation. Ambassador Smbatyan said that the Pazmany Peter Catholic University has plans on opening a Center of Hungarian Studies in the Armenian university, which was welcomed by the latter. The Ambassador highlighted President Khachaturyans meeting with members of the Armenian community in Hungary. The latter is one of the two countries in Europe where the Armenian community has a special role and status on a legislative level, the other being Romania. I think that historical commonalities are very deep, and the Armenians of Transylvania have a unique role in the history of Hungary, which Hungary values, the Ambassador said. Smbatyan noted that the Hungarian Wizz Air airline has a very active flight schedule in Armenia. The Armenian government is now working to achieve direct flights between Hungary and Armenia, furthermore not only from Budapest to Yerevan but also to Gyumri. The Armenian side is now working in this direction. But of course, this depends on what decision the airline will make. Direct flights between the two countries would boost tourism, he added. Hungarian President Katalin Novak said at a joint press conference with Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan that Hungary plans to open a consulate in Yerevan. The Armenian Ambassador commended the announcement and said, I think and I hope that there will be a corresponding step from the Armenian side as well. The Armenian Ambassador attached importance to Khachaturyans visit to Hungary also in terms of developing ties with the EU, given that Budapest will assume the EU presidency on July 1, 2024. President Khachaturyan, during the joint press conference, invited the President of Hungary to visit Armenia, and the Hungarian side accepted the invitation. I think that this year we will also see Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyans official visit to Hungary, the Ambassador said, adding that the Hungarian Speaker of Parliament has invited his Armenian counterpart to pay a visit. These bilateral, high-level visits will definitely have a significant role in deepening the relations between the two countries, Ambassador Smbatyan added. Congressman Michael Lawler (R-NY) joined with a bipartisan group of Armenian Caucus colleagues in introducing the Armenian Protection Act (H.R.7288)a bill aimed at stopping U.S. military aid to Azerbaijan. Its Senate counterpart (S.3000), spearheaded by Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), was adopted unanimously last year, reported the Armenian National Committee of America. Representative Lawler co-authored this legislation with Armenian Caucus Co-Chairs Frank Pallone (D-NJ) and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) and fellow first-term legislator Gabe Amo (D-RI). If and when adopted and enacted into law, the Lawler-Pallone-Bilirakis-Amo Bill will tighten the existing statute restricting U.S. aid to AzerbaijanSection 907 of the FREEDOM Support Actsubstantively limiting the authority of the U.S. President to waive its full enforcement. Rep. Lawler, who serves on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, was adamant about the need for clear Biden Administration action to stop bolstering Azerbaijans anti-Armenian attacks. Over 100,000 Armenians were targeted, abused, and displaced by the Government of Azerbaijan when they fled Nagorno-Karabakh in recent months, explained Rep. Lawler. There is no question of Azerbaijans aggression, yet President Biden continues to turn a blind eye. He continued to note that Its simply unacceptable for the U.S. to be funding Azerbaijans campaign against the Armenian people. The Armenian Protection Act will put a stop to the Biden Administrations funding of Azerbaijans authoritarian regime and desire for regional dominance. Rep. Pallone stressed the need for Azerbaijani accountability for the genocide against Artsakhs indigenous Armenian population. President Aliyev broke international law when he ordered his deadly assault of Artsakh last September and still has not faced any meaningful consequences from the international community. World leaders failed to stop his genocidal campaign that has displaced 120,000 Armenians from their historic homeland even though his belligerent rhetoric and troop movements made it clear an attack was imminent, stated Rep. Pallone. Its far past time for the United States and our allies to take serious actions that will prevent even more death and destruction at the hands of Aliyev and provide the safety and security in the region that Armenia needs to thrive as a democracy. The Armenian Protection Act will finally hold the Aliyev regime accountable, halt any further U.S. security assistance until they end their destabilizing actions in the region, and require proof that they can be a trustworthy party in peace negotiations moving forward. I call upon House leadership to take up this commonsense legislation and pass it immediately. Rep. Bilirakis stressed the importance of passing the measure. Given the political and humanitarian crisis that has resulted from Azerbaijans recent aggression toward neighboring Armenia, it is unconscionable that U.S. tax dollars are going to support this brutal regime. Those dollars could better be used here at home, said Rep. Bilirakis. We must send a clear message to the Government of Azerbaijan and our partners around the globe that the United States will not stand for unprovoked attacks on the Armenian people, said Congressman Amo, a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. We cannot allow the Government of Azerbaijan to get a free pass for their brutal military aggression and blockades against the ethnic Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh. I am proud to support this bipartisan legislation to show that the United States stands with the people of Armenia and will not accept Azerbaijans assault on Nagorno-Karabakh. SIUs Father Joseph Brown to present Glassman Lecture on Feb. 13 by Pete Rosenbery CARBONDALE, Ill. Father Joseph Brown, professor and director of Southern Illinois University Carbondales School of Africana and Multicultural Studies, is the keynote speaker for this springs Michael and Nancy Glassman Lecture on Tuesday, Feb. 13. Brown will present Sankofa: Let the songs of the ancestors teach us to fly. The free, public talk and reception will be from 5-7:30 p.m. in the Christian H. Moe Laboratory Theater in the Communications Building, Room 1045. The lecture will also be available via Zoom; registration is available. Presented by the University Honors Program, Browns talk will be interspersed with dances by Darryl K. Clark, associate professor in the School of Theater and Dance, and visiting artist Dominique Atwood, an instructor of dance in Loyola University Chicagos Department of Fine and Performing Arts. The program is presented in collaboration with SIU Carbondales College of Arts and Media and the College of Liberal Arts. Media advisory Reporters, photographers and news crews are welcome to cover the Michael and Nancy Glassman Distinguished Lecture. To arrange for interviews, contact Jyotsna Kapur at jkapur@siu.edu. Brown's presentation fits with the honors programs Cosmos and Culture theme, said Jyotsna Kapur, University Honors Program director. She explained that Sankofa (san-kofa) is an Akan word (part of the Ashanti tribe from West Africa) that means we must go back to retrieve the past to live in the present. It is symbolized as a bird. Brown will lead us to consider the profound meaning of and struggle to memorialize ancestors as a lesson we learn from the Black spiritual tradition and its imagination of the cosmos, Kapur said. Brown has been with SIU Carbondale since 1997, when he began as an associate professor and director of the then-Black American Studies Program before being promoted to professor in 2000. A native of East St. Louis, Brown was ordained into the priesthood in 1972. He earned a bachelors degree in philosophy from St. Louis University and a masters degree in creative writing from Johns Hopkins University. He also holds a masters degree in Afro-American studies and doctorate in American studies from Yale University. In 2023, Brown was one of two inaugural recipients of the Southern Illinois University Systems Anti-racism, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Lifetime Achievement Award. The SIU Board of Trustees recently renamed the award the Dr. Wesley G. Robinson-McNeese ADEI Lifetime Achievement Award. The award recognizes staff and faculty members whose careers include generally 20 years or more of documented service and advocacy in ADEI initiatives that result in greater justice and belonging for all in the SIU community. The Michael and Nancy Glassman Lecturer Series was established by Michael and Nancy Glassman. They met while they were students at SIU Carbondale and have continued their support of the university by establishing the lecture series. Saturday, March 2, 2024 3:00 p.m. 4:30 p.m. Music Center Recital Hall at UC Santa Cruz FREE and Open to the Public/no tickets required SANTA CRUZ, Calif. (February 9, 2024) On Saturday, March 2, 2024, the students of the UCSC Central Asian Ensemble will present folk and traditional music from Uzbekistan with special guest master-dutarist Rozibi Khodjaeva. This performance is culmination of a month-long residency that Khodjaeva is engaged in at the University of California, Santa Cruz, including rehearsals with the ensemble, meeting with graduate students, and lectures/demonstrations at UCLA and University of Colorado, Boulder, while she is in the United States. Tanya Merchant, an associate professor of music at UC Santa Cruz, started the Asian Ensemble (formerly the Eurasian Ensemble) in 2008 with the goal of educating students on music outside of the western canon. Her two-credit course teaches students about the dutar, a two stringed instrument that is traditional in Iranian and other Central Asian musical traditions. As the only dutar ensemble outside of Central Asia, Merchant is super proud of her students, especially the ten new members who spent the first four weeks of this quarter learning their first song. To see how far absolute non-musical beginners can go in 11 weeks is super exciting, says Merchant. The March performance will showcase music both from Merchants beginning students, followed by music majors who she has taught before. Finishing off with her and a special guest Rozibi Khodjaeva. Khodjaeva taught Merchant how to play dutar in the early 2000s. The two met when Merchant stayed in Uzbekistan while studying ethnomusicology at UCLA with a focus in Uzbek music. While there Merchant also worked as part of Khodjaevas wedding band, playing the drums, often for gender segregated wedding events which are common in Uzbek traditions. I have such fond memories of spending all this time on her balcony, says Merchant, drinking tea and learning the dutar and working together. Merchant and Khodjaeva had not seen each other for 15 years before joining together for this special residency. Although there was an attempt to bring Khodjaeva to the U.S. in March of 2020, that did not work out. Khodjaeva is currently here on a work visa and the pair are also playing shows in Denver, Boulder, and Los Angeles between flying back and working on lessons at UC Santa Cruz. Khodjaeva has been assisting with the Central Asia Ensemble despite not knowing any english. It is wonderful to see how people who don't share language can still share music, says Merchant. The concert will also feature Tara Pandeya, an internationally recognized dancer who has worked with Cirque du Soleil and is the first Westerner to dance with the Tajik State Ensemble. This upcoming performance showcases UC Santa Cruzs focus on diversity and promoting the voices of those who are underrepresented. Khodjaeva and Padeya, as international experts in the world of music and dance, encapsulate diversity around the world and on campus. This is the culmination of more than 20 years of collaboration between this master musician and I, says Merchant. I'm really excited that all of these wonderful people can come together and play music together. More Information: March 2, 2024 3 PM - 4:30 PM Music Recital Hall 402 McHenry Rd Santa Cruz, CA 95064 More Information Available Here VMPL New Delhi [India], February 9: Mumbai welcomed the 45 Art Galleries and 550 Artists for the 12th edition of the India Art Festival hosted at the Nehru Centre in Worli from February 8 to 11. The edition of the India Art Festival in Mumbai after the grand success of respective editions at Delhi and Bengaluru presents city art lovers with wide choices of over 5000+ artworks in various styles, different mediums, and myriad subjects. For art enthusiasts and collectors alike, the India Art Festival 2024 is a celebration of diversity, creativity, and the timeless allure of artistic expression. The programme was inaugurated by Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Guardian Minister of State, Maharashtra, Poetess- Philanthropist Manju Lodha, Atul Kulkarni, Kiiran Patel, Rupali Suri and Rozlyn Khan among others. This year India Art Festival is offering not only a visual feast but also a multitude of fusion shows, live music performances, mesmerizing live painting demonstrations, and captivating film screenings. A standout feature of the event is the enlightening film "The Eternal Canvas - 12,000 Years Journey through Indian Art," a cinematic exploration of India's rich artistic heritage spanning millennia. This cinematic journey provides a sweeping overview of the evolution of Indian art, from prehistoric times to contemporary expressions. Rajendra Patil, the founder and director of India Art Festival, who also serves as the President of the Bombay Art Society, one of the oldest Indian art institutions founded in 1888, and Editor & Publisher of the Indian Contemporary Art Journal, a quarterly art magazine, says, "The primary inspiration behind initiating the India Art Festival back in 2011 was to create a platform that showcases and promotes contemporary art in India, with a particular focus on young emerging artists and mid-level art galleries, as it is often challenging for them to access such platforms or enter the art fair circuit due to huge cost factor." This year there are quite a few galleries showcasing at the second floor along with many independent artists showcasing their creative genes while also becoming the platform for art collectors and buyers to directly initiate a dialogue with the emerging pool of artistic talents. Seascapes, landscapes, rural and urban scenarios, and abstracts are seen in abundance in the Artists Pavilion with names like Nandini Bajekal, Palak Doshi, Shankar Sharma, Ria Das, Suresh Gosavi, Deepika Shah, Sunandini Balan, Sumatilal Bagde, Kanchan Mahate, Neh Jhunjhuwala, Ridhi Parekh Sandhya Singh, Sapna Agarwal, Arti Bahndari, Ashwin Kumar, Yuvraj Patil Uma Krishnamoorthy, Anushika Dhoot, Pinky Bhatt, Saket Arbhi, Ishita Chowdhury, Asha Shetty, Rashmi Pote, Falguni Mehta, Sharu Anjirbag, Vidita Singh, Madhvi Bhaskar, Susmita Mandal, Geetu Kalani, most of whom are presenting their solo shows. The solo projects by more than 30 artists on the second floor is a revelation of artistic brilliance, hosting works by over 200 individual artists in group shows, providing them with a unique opportunity to get discovered alongside master artists. Shashwati Devsharma's abstract works, characterized by vivid colour swathes, and Swara Inamdar's art pieces that approach colour field paintings, are captivating highlights. A myriad of artistic expressions unfolds with Janhavi Bhide, Abhijit Bose, Anisha Kotibhaskar, and Hema Parekh delving into a semi-abstract idiom, offering multiple possible interpretations. Dipti Kadrekar, Nayana Das, and Neerja Kujur present animal-themed artworks, featuring bulls, dogs, stags, and symbolic bird paintings by Mukta Kulkarni. Exhibition: India Art Festival Venue : Nehru Centre, Worli, Mumbai Date: till 11 Feb 2024 Time: 11.00 to 8.00 pm daily (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) PRNewswire Solan (Himachal Pradesh) [India], February 9: Shoolini University, a 15-year-old institution, recently celebrated a significant milestone in scientific research. The university's own Dr Lokender Kumar, an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology and an alumnus of the institution, authored a groundbreaking research paper that has been published in the prestigious Nature Journal. This milestone not only highlights Dr Kumar's exceptional contribution to the field but also showcases Shoolini University's dedication to fostering research and innovation. Nature, a leading multidisciplinary scientific journal known for its stringent peer-review process, boasts an impact factor of 64.8 and a SCImago Journal Rank of 20.957. This journal's reputation for excellence makes being published in it a clear indicator of the research's quality and importance. Over the past five years, Nature has published 14,900 papers globally, with only 140 contributions from Indian authors. Dr Kumar's paper stands out as one of these select publications, highlighting the remarkable nature of this achievement within the Indian scientific community. Dr Kumar's research focuses on the role of 7-dehydrocolesterol (7-DHC) as a regulator of cell death, which is of significance in many cellular processes and diseases. This discovery is particularly significant as it sheds light on the adaptive mechanisms of cells to regulate ferroptosis, highlighting the key role of 7-DHC in cellular processes. By understanding how cells utilise 7-DHC, researchers in future can explore new therapeutic strategies aimed at targeting this molecular mechanism. This research opens new avenues for targeted therapies, also offering potential insights into neuroprotection, cancer, ageing, cardiovascular health, and metabolic disorders and treatments. Chancellor Prof PK Khosla congratulated Dr Kumar, expressing pride in his dual role as an alumnus and faculty member. He announced a cash award of Rs 5 lakh for Dr Kumar, to be presented during the upcoming Prerna Diwas on the Shoolini campus. He further declared that any faculty member who publishes a paper in Nature would receive an award of Rs 5 lakh. Highlighting the university's commitment to research, he stated, "Our mission is to advance knowledge and make meaningful contributions to society through research. By rewarding high-quality research outputs, we underscore our dedication to this mission and establish a standard for academic excellence." Vice Chancellor Prof Atul Khosla expressed immense pride in Dr Kumar's accomplishment, commending him for bringing honour to both the university and the country. He stated that the university is committed to fostering research excellence and will continue to encourage other researchers to aspire to the high standards established by Dr Kumar. Founder President and Trustee of the Foundation for Life Sciences and Business Management, Mrs Saroj Khosla, expressed pride in Dr Lokender Kumar's background as a student of Shoolini Institute of Life Sciences and Business Management (SILB) and as one of the first batch of gold medalists from Himachal Pradesh University. She commended his achievements, stating her immense pride in his accomplishments. Before joining Shoolini University, Dr Kumar underwent multidisciplinary training at the Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado, USA, and earned his Ph.D. in Microbiology from Panjab University, India. His academic excellence and research prowess have been recognised through prestigious awards, including the DST-Inspire Fellowship and the CSIR-UGC junior research fellowship. Dr Lokinder did his Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Microbiology (Gold Medalist) from SILB affiliated to Himachal Pradesh University. With his multidisciplinary training, Dr. Kumar is engaged in research understanding cellular signaling pathways in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Dr Kumar, with roots in the serene town of Manali, Himachal Pradesh, stands at the forefront of pioneering scientific exploration of the region. For more information about Dr Kumar's research, please refer to the full article published in Nature. (https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-023-06878-9) Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2337861/Lokender_Kumar_with_Chancellor_Prof_PK_Khosla.jpgLogo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/792680/4538720/Shoolini_University_Logo.jpg (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) NewsVoir Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], February 9: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bengaluru, the esteemed off-campus of MAHE, Manipal, welcomes aspiring students to embark on a transformative academic journey. Proudly announcing the commencement of admissions for the academic year 2024-2025, MAHE Bengaluru offers a diverse array of undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) programs across Law, Liberal Arts, Commerce, Public Policy, Management, Engineering, Design, Regenerative Medicines, and Allied Health Sciences. In the Commerce domain, a 4-year B. Com (Hons.) program awaits students, offering specializations in Corporate Accounting, Business Analytics, Banking and Finance, and Financial Technology. The program offers ACCA collaboration for global certifications in accounting, diverse internship opportunities, and optional international study abroad/exchange programs. For aspiring legal professionals, Manipal Law School presents a 5-year program, offering BA LLB (Hons.) and BBA LLB (Hons.) degrees with various specializations and a three-year LLB program at the undergraduate level. The school also offers multiple LLM programs in Construction Law & Arbitration, Data privacy Law and Cyber Law, Information Technology Law, and International Investment & Commercial Arbitration. The programs have expert faculty members and adjunct/visiting faculty members from Kings College London, UK, New York Law School, USA, etc., along with regular guest lectures, workshops, and conferences by industry experts. Manipal Institute of Technology provides a 4-year program for B. Tech enthusiasts, with specializations including Computer Science & Engineering, Cyber Security, Artificial Intelligence, Data Sciences, Information Technology, and Electronics and Communication Engineering. In the field of Liberal Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences, a 4-year BA (Hons.) program is offered, providing specializations in Journalism and Mass Communication, Psychology, English, and Double Major programs in History, Political Science, Economics, and Sociology. The courses will provide international recognition and support from renowned scholars. In the field of Management, T.A. Pai Management Institute (TAPMI) provides a 4-year old BBA (Hons) program. The Srishti Manipal Institute of Art Design and Technology offers various BVoC, BDes and BFA programs. For those who would like to pursue post-graduation studies, MAHE Bengaluru offers a 2-year M. Com program with specializations in Finance & Accounting. The Department of Liberal Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences offers MA in Multimedia & Communication and English Language & Literature and also offers MSc in Applied Psychology. The Department of Public Policy offers MA in the Public Policy program. Manipal Law School offers LLM programs specializing in Construction Law & Arbitration Law, Data Privacy Law & Cyber Law, Information Technology Law, International Investment & Commercial Arbitration in regular and blended modes. The campus also offers MSs program under Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine in research in translational immunology, research in translational neuroscience, stem cell technology, and regenerative biology. In the Allied Health Sciences, the campus provides a 2-year MPT program with specializations in Musculoskeletal Sciences, Neurosciences, Pediatrics, and Cardio-pulmonary Sciences. Additionally, there is a 2-year M.Sc. program with diverse specializations such as Cardiovascular Technology, Clinical Psychology, and Laboratory Technology. Also various PG diploma, MFA, MA, MPlan and MDes programs are offered under the Srishti Manipal Institute of Art Design and Technology offers various BVoC, BDes and BFA programs. Speaking about the programs, Prof. Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro VC, MAHE Bengaluru Campus expressed his thoughts, "MAHE Bengaluru stands as a beacon for aspiring students, providing a unique blend of academic excellence and holistic development. Our UG and PG programs are designed to empower students, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their chosen fields and make meaningful contributions to academia and industries. Through innovative teaching methods and a focus on interdisciplinary learning, we aim to nurture critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills that are essential for addressing the challenges of a rapidly evolving world." Please click on this link to know more about the courses. Established in 1953, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence and a Deemed to be University. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In October 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, honoured MAHE with the prestigious designation of Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University. Currently ranked sixth in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience. MAHE Bengaluru, an off campus of MAHE, excels in delivering comprehensive education to students, supported by highly qualified faculty, and dedicated mentors. The MAHE Bengaluru campus has an inspiring, future relevant learning ecosystem, on a new age tech enabled living campus. Here, the students immerse themselves, transform and discover multiple choices and opportunities. At MAHE Bengaluru, the potential for growth and the opportunities available are boundless. (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) PRNewswire Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], February 9: Rainmaker, India's leading culture and compliance learning solutions company, recently hosted an insightful Rainmaker All-Inclusive webinar on whether menstrual leave should be included in an organization's leave policies. Titled "The New Era of Leave Policies: Do We Need the Period Leave?", the webinar provided a platform for a spirited discussion aimed to dissect the discourse around menstrual leave and its relevance within organizational leave policies. The webinar recognized menstruation as a natural biological process impacting various aspects of life, including at the workplace. Joining Rainmaker CEO, Antony J Alex, for the discussion were leading HR executive Kapil Vardhan, Head of People at Mensa Brands, legal expert Mirul Bhavsar, Head of Legal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, and DEI specialist, Supriya Rehill, Head of Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Accessibility, Mahindra Logistics. Together, the panelists addressed the necessity of identifying and accommodating menstruating employees' specific requirements. Expressing his perspective on the matter, Antony J. Alex, Founder & CEO of Rainmaker, said, "The aim of this webinar was to draw attention to the difficulties that menstruating women endure, as well as the influence menstruation has on their emotional well-being and professional lives. It is important to create an environment that encourages open dialogue concerning menstruation, standardizing discussions about menstrual health, and enacting inclusive policies that assist employees amid the challenging menstrual cycle. It is also imperative to recognize and address these requirements within organizational frameworks to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment. Kapil, Mirul and Supriya offered insightful perspectives that ignited discussions on this relevant topic and I'm grateful for their time and expertise." The event also addressed concerns raised about potential implications for gender equality and workplace dynamics, with some suggesting that it may inadvertently reinforce stereotypes or create divisions. Kapil Vardhan, Head of People at Mensa Brands, said, "Empowering organizations to embrace progressive leave policies is not just about fostering inclusivity; it's about recognizing the diverse needs of employees and championing their well-being. The dialogue sparked during the Rainmaker All-Inclusive Webinar exemplifies our collective commitment to shaping a workplace culture that prioritizes empathy and understanding. I'm honored to have been a part of this conversation." Advocates further underscored the importance of acknowledging and accommodating these needs within organizational frameworks to create a more inclusive and supportive environment. Mirul Bhavsar, Head of Legal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, shared her thoughts, saying, "In today's rapidly evolving workplace landscape, redefining leave policies isn't merely about implementing another good-to-have policy; it's about adapting to change, and fostering a culture of support and understanding, while offering an all-inclusive and conducive work environment. The Rainmaker All-Inclusive Webinar served as a testament to our shared dedication to crafting environments where every individual's needs are identified, valued and respected. I'm grateful that Team Rainmaker invited me to be a part of this exceptionally important discussion. Conversations like these provide a platform and encourage open dialogue on this crucial topic, prioritizing empathy and the normalization of challenges associated with menstruation, before we go for any formal policy or law on this." Rainmaker is a pioneering force in culture and compliance learning solutions, and is passionately committed to training individuals and organizations in ethical conduct. The company has a wide variety of offerings, such as workshops, e-modules and policy development, in the space of Prevention of Sexual Harassment, Anti-Bribery & Anti-Corruption, Data Protection & Privacy, Code of Conduct, Leadership Development, among others. About Rainmaker: Founded in 2016, Rainmaker is India's leading culture and compliance learning solutions company. Our vision is to transform learning in organizations, thereby enabling high performance in teams that choose our learning solutions. We do this by crafting entertaining, dramatized and impactful solutions in the form of short films based on real-life scenarios across areas of learning that lead to an organization's excellence in culture and compliance. Our areas of expertise include PoSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment), DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion), DPP (Data Protection and Privacy), ABAC (Anti Bribery Anti-Corruption), CoC (Code of Conduct), PIT (Prevention of Insider Trading), Leadership Training and other areas of compliance and culture that an organization may require. Website: https://rainmaker.co.in/ (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) PRNewswire Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], February 9: Fibe (formerly EarlySalary), India's leading Fintech, has significantly enhanced customer experience and has reduced the response time by 99%. Through its association with Locobuzz, a CX management platform, Fibe has improved the efficiency and effectiveness of its customer interactions, thereby boosting brand loyalty. With over 5 lakh active customers, Fibe handles over 10,000 monthly conversations. With an aim to efficiently manage the influx of customer interactions, Fibe sought the services of Locobuzz' unified CX platform. The primary objective of the association was to proactively engage with inquiries, requests, and feedback across various digital channels, while effectively tracking untagged mentions, managing multi-channel conversations, and gaining competitive insights. The platform empowered Fibe with a comprehensive suite of tools including: - Social Listening: Enabled tracking of 100% mentions, including untagged and viral content, ensuring no query went unnoticed. - Sentiment Analysis: Enhanced understanding of customer emotions, allowing for prompt and effective response. - Competitor Tracking: Provided valuable insights into competitor strategies and campaign effectiveness, allowing Fibe to refine its own approach and stay ahead of the curve. - SSRE (Social Service Response Engine): Automated social media response management, ensuring swift and consistent customer service. - DIY Dashboards: Empowered data-driven decisions with customised reports and key metric monitoring. Fibe leveraged Locobuzz's solutions to significantly improve its response time across various digital touchpoints. The robust tools contributed to Fibe successfully reducing its customer service turnaround time from 96 hours to an impressive 45 minutes. The SSRE further heightened the efficiency, ensuring SLA (Service Level Agreement) closure within just 1 hour and 9 minutes. These improvements, coupled with effective social media engagement, significantly elevated Fibe's Social Reputation Score, thereby strengthening the brand advocacy. Mr. Sudesh Shetty, F ounding Member and Head of Marketing of Fibe said, "Fibe has always remained committed to provide a superior and seamless experience to its customers. The Locobuzz platform has further propelled our customer-first approach and enabled us to authentically engage with our audience, gain a competitive edge, and make data-driven decisions. We will continue to enhance our monitoring tools and response time to take our brand to newer heights." Shubhi Agarwal, Co-Founder & COO of Locobuzz explained, "Fintech service providers are at a pivotal juncture, where the surge in internet services aligns seamlessly with the escalating need for digital customer support." "It's a privilege for us to partner with Fibe in crafting unparalleled customer experiences across digital channels. By leveraging the power of automation and AI within the Locobuzz unified platform, Fibe can adeptly handle extensive customer inquiries and reviews, paving the way for long-term service enhancements based on deep insights." Fibe's partnership with Locobuzz has been instrumental in their success on social media. Locobuzz has provided them with the tools and insights to engage with their audience effectively, analyse competitor activity, and make data-driven decisions for their social media strategy and marketing campaigns. Fibe is solidifying its position as a leader in the FinTech space by forging lasting connections with its young, tech-savvy customer base. About Fibe: Fibe (previously EarlySalary) is one of India's leading consumer lending apps focused on young, aspirational, and tech-savvy Indian consumers. It is building a financial ecosystem that enables the mid-income group to fulfil their aspirations. It is an industry leader in the salary advance segment with the fastest processing time. It has launched a host of financial products like Cash Loans, long-term Personal Loans and Buy Now Pay Later plans. It offers a 100% digital loan application process that takes just seconds to complete. Its technology arm - Social Worth Technologies Pvt. Ltd. has partnered with Axis Bank to launch the Fibe Axis Bank Credit Card. Fibe has grown multifold over the years and emerged as a market leader in providing financial assistance to young middle-income groups in India. Due to its highly scalable business model, Fibe recently has been upgraded to BBB+ by CARE Ratings and has been certified with ISO/IEC 2001 for its Information Security Management System (ISMS). Today, Fibe has access to debt lines to leading PSUs & Private Banks, Large Notable NBFCs and NDCs. The company has already disbursed more than 5.7 million+ loans worth Rs. 18,300 Cr+. - Featured in Economic Times Best Brand Award at the Best Brands Conclave 2022 - Winner of the BFSI Leadership Award at the 5th NBFC100 Tech Summit - Winner of Young Indians Delhi Youth Conclave Award - Dream Company to Work for in Fintech by HRM Asia Pacific Congress - Winner of G20 Digital Innovation Alliance - Best Startup in Fintech About Locobuzz: Locobuzz is a global enterprise software company that specialises in digital customer experience management. Its unified CX management platform enables brands to automate the entire customer experience journey, delivering delightful and humane experiences to customers across all customer-facing functions. This helps brands forge stronger relationships with their customers and increase their lifetime value. Using advanced AI, ML, Big Data, and Analytics, the platform empowers brands with real-time data analytics, automation, consumer insights, and end-to-end social media management that includes publishing, listening, analytics and engagement. Trusted by Fortune 500 companies and marquee brands across various industries, Locobuzz operates in seven countries, including India, the USA, the UK, Sri Lanka, and the Middle East and South-East Asia. Learn more at https://locobuzz.com/ Media Contact:Abhishek KumarPublic Relation ManagerEmail: abhishek.kumar@locobuzz.comPhone: +91 9873370935 Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2337869/Locobuzz_Fibe.jpgLogo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2337873/Locobuzz_Logo.jpg (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari said here on Friday that at the end of 2024 our national highway road network will be equivalent to the road network of the USA. Gadkari was addressing the ET NOW Global Business Summit 2024, outlining a vision for revolutionizing India's infrastructure landscape. In his address, Gadkari emphasized the pivotal role of robust infrastructure in driving economic growth and development across various sectors. "If we need capital investment, development in the industry, we should have good infrastructure. Water, Power, Transport and Communication. Without infrastructure we cannot develop our agriculture, service industry, tourism and there is the most important thing that after 2014 when Modiji became the Prime Minister of this country, he has decided to give highest priority to the development of infrastructure in the country", Gadkari asserted. He underscored the significant strides made in infrastructure development since 2014, underlining Prime Minister Modi's unwavering commitment to this crucial sector. Gadkari revealed ambitious plans to expand the National Highway road network, aiming to match the scale of the road network in the USA by the end of 2024. Gadkari said, "At the end of 2024 our National Highway Road network will be equivalent to the road network of USA". Highlighting specific projects, he announced plans to significantly reduce the distance between Delhi and Chennai by 320 km. "From Delhi to Chennai we are going to reduce the distance by 320 km. After express highway going to Surat, there will be connectivity to Nasik, Nasik to Ahmednagar, Ahmednagar to Solapur, Solapur to Kurnool, and Kurnool to Trivandrum, Kochin, Kanyakumari, Hyderabad and Chennai. For Chennai you don't need to go to Mumbai and Pune", said Gadkari. The proposed express highway from Surat will enhance connectivity to key cities like Nasik, Ahmednagar, Solapur, Kurnool, Trivandrum, Kochi, Kanyakumari, Hyderabad, and Chennai, streamlining transportation routes and fostering regional development. "When we decided to make India as a developed country, we are the fastest growing economy in the world and the dream of the Prime minister to make Indian economy the third largest economy in the world, for that we need to develop world standard infrastructure in the country and we are trying our level best", Gadkari emphasized. Addressing the critical issue of fossil fuel imports, Gadkari outlined innovative initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable practices in energy production. He elaborated on efforts to produce biofuels from agricultural residues such as rice straw, highlighting the establishment of a facility in Panipat in collaboration with Indian Oil for the production of sustainable aviation fuel from rice straw. "We are making bitumen from Rice straw (parali). The sustainable aviation fuel, we have already started the project in Panipat with Indian Oil and they are using Parali (Rice straw) having capacity of 1 lac liter of ethanol per day, 150 ton of Bio Bitumen per day and 76,000 ton per year bio aviation fuel that is sustainable aviation fuel. Now we are making ethanol from sugarcane juice, B Molasses, C Molasses, from corn and rice and all the food grains," Gadkari explained. He also highlighted the establishment of a factory in Nomaligarh, Assam, focused on producing ethanol from bamboo, further illustrating the government's commitment to sustainability and innovation. "In Nomaligarh, Assam we have started a factory where they are making ethanol from bamboo", said Gadkari. Gadkari's address at the summit underscored the government's determination to propel India's infrastructure development to unprecedented heights. With ambitious projects and innovative strategies in place, India is poised to emerge as a global leader in infrastructure excellence, driving economic growth and prosperity for its citizens. (ANI) In Harbin's icy embrace, tourists flock to offer condolences, cherish memories 08:53, February 09, 2024 By Bai Xu, Gui Tao, Li Jianping, Sun Xiaoyu, Yang Siqi ( Xinhua * Amid the joyous festivities at popular spots like the Ice-Snow World theme park, tens of thousands have also flocked to a memorial outside the city center. * The notorious Unit 731 was a top-secret biological and chemical warfare research base established in Harbin as the nerve center for Japanese biological warfare in China and Southeast Asia during World War II. * More and more young people are braving the wind and snow to come here and learn about history, demonstrating the strength and responsibility of the younger generation in China. HARBIN, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- Since the beginning of the year, Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, has emerged as a top winter destination. But, amid the joyous festivities at popular spots like the Ice-Snow World theme park, tens of thousands have also flocked to a memorial outside the city center. On a frigid weekday morning, with the temperature in the city dropping to minus 26 degrees Celsius, the spirits of those visiting the Exhibition Hall of Evidence of Crimes Committed by Unit 731 of the Japanese Imperial Army remained undeterred. Braving the freezing weather, people queued up at the public square outside the exhibition hall. Among the visitors were many young people, some accompanied by their children. Despite the harsh weather, they patiently waited for one or two hours, with volunteers distributing hot water and warming pads to alleviate the cold. This photo taken on Jan. 25, 2024 shows a view outside the Exhibition Hall of Evidence of Crimes Committed by Unit 731 of the Japanese Imperial Army in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) The notorious Unit 731 was a top-secret biological and chemical warfare research base established in Harbin as the nerve center for Japanese biological warfare in China and Southeast Asia during World War II. At least 3,000 people were used for human experiments by Unit 731, and more than 300,000 people in China were killed by Japan's biological weapons. This winter the exhibition hall has been ranked third among all other tourist attractions in Harbin by the world's leading travel platform TripAdvisor. This exhibition hall showcases documents, experimental utensils and tools used by the Japanese, along with videos that record the accounts of former Unit 731 soldiers. Xu Xiaomeng and her two friends patiently waited for nearly 30 minutes before gaining entry to the hall. "It is worthwhile because this history should be remembered by every Chinese," said the 32-year-old Xu, who works as a middle school English teacher in central China's Hubei Province. They planned their trip based on recommendations from social media, and the exhibition hall was on their "must-visit" list. According to Xu, the frozen experiment performed on Chinese victims was the most unsettling aspect of the exhibition. She acknowledged that the curators might have omitted certain graphic details, but the exhibits still startled her. Her friend Huang Guangjing, who is a Chinese literature teacher, said that she was profoundly dismayed to learn about the germ warfare conducted by Unit 731. "I will share everything with my students to ensure that they carry forward the memory." Qian Xiaomin, a 36-year-old resident of Hangzhou, capital city of east China's Zhejiang Province, said that she and her 12-year-old son had planned to spend a week in Harbin, with the exhibition hall being their first stop. Following their visit, her son Qian Yanchu decided to document his impressions of the exhibition in his diary. "If I could turn back in time, I would join the army to protect my fellow countrymen," the boy said, adding that for now he wants to work hard and contribute to the building of a stronger nation. Numerous children and teenagers, just like Qian, were visiting the exhibition hall. Most of them quietly looked at the exhibits and attentively listened to the descriptions, occasionally posing questions to their parents. People visit the Exhibition Hall of Evidence of Crimes Committed by Unit 731 of the Japanese Imperial Army in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 25, 2024. (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) Lin Yanlu, accompanied by her six-year-old son and septuagenarian parents, was among the visitors. She said that her son tried to read the descriptions himself and was petrified by the vivid accounts of vivisection. "Our country has grown stronger, but this transformation came at the cost of many martyrs," she told her son. In addition to the exhibition hall, people also flocked to the Northeast China Revolutionary Martyrs' Memorial Hall, which has welcomed over 65,000 visitors this year, excluding those who joined virtual tours online. Of all the visitors a large percentage are young people, including more than 30,000 from 270 student groups. Guide Gao Peng, 30, has been working at the Unit 731 exhibition hall for six years. "I always encounter visitors with various questions," he said. "Through our conversations, my aim is for them to gain a deeper understanding of the historical events from those years, fostering not hatred but rather the courage and motivation to move forward." To cope with the surge in visitors, the exhibition hall changed the opening time from 9 a.m. to 8 a.m. starting from late December in 2023, and extended opening hours. People visit the Exhibition Hall of Evidence of Crimes Committed by Unit 731 of the Japanese Imperial Army in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 25, 2024. (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) Since the beginning of this year, the daily average number of visitors has continued to surpass 17,000. As of the end of January, the exhibition has welcomed over 500,000 visitors, with approximately 90 percent coming from outside Heilongjiang, and 60 percent being young people. Meanwhile, discussions about visits to the exhibition hall continued to gain widespread attention on Chinese social media. On Sina Weibo, searches related to these topics surpassed 360 million, and posts tagged with "731" were viewed around 2.6 billion times on Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok. "More and more young people are braving the wind and snow to come here and learn about history, demonstrating the strength and responsibility of the younger generation in China," said Jin Chengmin, head of the exhibition hall. People visit the Exhibition Hall of Evidence of Crimes Committed by Unit 731 of the Japanese Imperial Army in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 25, 2024. (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei) In the final room, an electronic screen displays the names of the victims, accompanied by bouquets placed there by the visitors. At the exhibition hall exit, visitors pass through a lengthy, dimly lit tunnel with a glimmer of light at its end. Staff members gently prompt them as they attempt to turn back, advising, "Keep moving forward, don't look back." (Web editor: Cai Hairuo, Zhong Wenxing) On a day when the BJP bristled at a statement by Rahul Gandhi, claiming that Prime Minister Narendra Modi wasn't born an OBC, Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday said crores of people across the country were still struggling to be included in the Other Backward Classes category. Taking to his official handle on social media platform X, the Congress national president also took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his alleged opposition to a nationwide caste census, claiming that it would deprive many from the backward classes of being enlisted as OBCs. He claimed further that PM Modi's 'silence' on a nationwide caste census, which the Congress claimed earlier will be conducted if it were to be elected in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, threatens to deprive crores of fellow natives of 'social justice'. "Nowadays Modi ji is teaching the lesson of social justice to the entire country. His caste got OBC status. He has also started calling himself the "biggest OBC". Modi ji got the status of OBC category without protesting on the streets, but crores of people in the country are continuously struggling to get themselves included in the OBC list," the Congress national president posted from his X handle on Thursday. "There are many such backward castes in the country who will not be able to get OBC status due to Modi ji's opposition to the caste census," the Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha added. Reiterating his party's position on the subject, Kharge vowed to have a caste census conducted across the country if the Congress comes to power at centre. "Lakhs of people in Maharashtra, Haryana and Gujarat have taken to the streets for many years to get OBC status for their caste. Modi ji has become the Vishwa Guru among OBC! But they are not telling when the Caste Census will be held? The caste census is most important to implementing social justice. The Congress Party has promised that we will definitely get the caste census done," Kharge added in his post. Earlier, on Thursday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi claimed Prime Minister Narendra Modi is not an OBC as he was born into the general category. Addressing a public rally during the Odisha leg of his ongoing 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' here, the Wayanad MP said, "Whenever BJP workers come to you, tell them, 'Our Prime Minister lied to the country that he belongs to the backward class. He wasn't born into a backward class, he belongs to the general caste'. Do say this to every BJP worker." Addressing the Parliament earlier, during the ongoing 'Budget Session', Prime Minister Modi called himself 'sabse bada OBC' (the biggest OBC) while accusing the Congress of indulging in hypocrisy and adopting double standards while dealing with leaders from backward communities. "Congress party and UPA government did not deliver justice to the OBCs. A few days ago, Karpoori Thakur ji was conferred with Bharat Ratna. In 1970, when he became Bihar CM, what was not done to destabilise his government? Congress can't tolerate OBCs. They keep counting how many OBCs are there in government. Can't you (Congress) see the biggest OBC here (pointing towards himself)?" PM Modi said in his reply to the 'Motion of Thanks' on the President's Address in Lok Sabha on Monday. Responding to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's denial of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's OBC status, BJP's Amit Malviya accused him of spreading a 'blatant lie.' Malviya shared an official document listing OBC categories from Gujarat dated October 27, 1999, asserting that Modi's caste was officially recognized as OBC two years before he took over as the Chief Minister of Gujarat. Malviya also claimed that the Nehru-Gandhi family, right from Jawaharlal Nehru to Rahul Gandhi, has consistently been opposed to OBCs. (ANI) In its 'White Paper' on the state of the economy during the UPA years, the Centre on Thursday came down heavily on the previous Congress-led regime at the Centre over its 'lack of leadership' from 2004 to 2014 under the leadership of then Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh. Supporting its claim on the leadership question, the Centre invoked the tearing of an Ordinance by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in the presence of then-PM Singh. The government, in its 'White Paper', added that the 'lack of leadership' in 10 years of the UPA "came out in full public glare, in shameful public tearing-up of an Ordinance". Point 41 of the White Paper, which was tabled by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in the Lok Sabha on Thursday, read, "Time and again, there was a crisis of leadership in the UPA government. It came out in full public glare in the shameful public tearing up of an ordinance issued by the government." The reference was to the 2013 incident when Rahul tore up a copy of the Ordinance passed by then-PM Singh, overturning a rule that disqualified convicted MPs and MLAs as members of legislative bodies. The Congress government at the time had to eventually scrap the Ordinance. The Congress-led UPA had brought the Ordinance to get around a Supreme Court judgement, barring elected representatives from being members of legislative bodies upon conviction in criminal cases. However, they were forced to roll back the Ordinance after a public remonstration from the Congress MP, who shredded the piece of paper in the presence of then-PM Singh, saying that it deserved to be dumped into the bin. During a hearing in the Lily Thomas vs Union of India case, the Supreme Court ruled that "any MP, MLA or MLC who is convicted of a crime and given a minimum of 2 years' jail loses membership of the House with immediate effect". The UPA government tried to bypass this judgement and retain section 8 (4) of the Representation of the People's Act that allowed lawmakers to not be disqualified for three months even if they are convicted. Two months later, the UPA government passed an Ordinance negating the apex court order. It was seen widely as a move to protect RJD supremo and UPA ally Lalu Prasad Yadav from disqualification if proved guilty in the 'fodder scam' case. On September 27, Rahul made a surprise entry at a press event of the Congress in Delhi, days after the Ordinance was passed. Tearing up the copy of the Ordinance in full public view, Rahul called it 'complete nonsense', adding that it should be "torn and thrown out". Further, in its 'White Paper', the NDA held the the previous Congress-led regime as being responsible for transforming the 'healthy' economy it inherited from the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led government into a 'non-performing' one. The paper had repeated references to the words 'weak leadership' during the UPA years. The paper, however, did not mention Manmohan Singh by name, merely laying the blame on the 'UPA government' led by him. (ANI) BJP workers took out a candlelight march at Srinagar's iconic Lal Chowk on Thursday to protest against the killing of two civilians from Punjab's Amritsar on Wednesday. The two civilians were killed after suspected terrorists opened fire at the Shaheed Gunj area in Srinagar on Wednesday evening. One of the victims, identified as Amritpal Singh, died at the spot while the other, identified as Rohit, was critically injured. However, the latter succumbed to his injuries on Thursday. A BJP worker, who marched alongside fellow protesters, holding candles, told ANI, "The terrorists can't digest the return of peace and the restoration of nomality in Jammu and Kashmir. They can't take it that the locals here are thriving in the spirit of brotherhood. They are also struggling to come to terms with the fact that Jammu Kashmir is receiving funds from the Centre." Earlier, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha condemned Wednesday's terror attack in Srinagar. In a post on X, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha stated, "I am deeply shocked and saddened by the heinous terror attack in Srinagar on Amritpal and Rohit from Amritsar. I condemn in strongest terms this brutal act, which has snuffed out an innocent life. In this hour of grief, I convey my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family." Condemning the attack in that claimed the lives of two non-natives, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and National Conference (NC) leader, Omar Abdullah, on Thursday said the incident served to demonstrate that the prevailing situation in the Union Territory isn't what the administration claims it to be. Speaking to ANI on Thursday, the National Conference leader said, "We deeply regret that two of our guests (non-residents) fell victim to this firing incident in Srinagar. One person died in the attack yesterday itself, while the other succumbed to his injuries at a hospital today." (ANI) Invest India's Ayush Strategic Policy and Facilitation Bureau, under the guidance of the Ministry of Ayush, organised a round table conference here at Vigyan Bhawan on Thursday. At the conference, the stakeholders in Ayush stated that Ayush is uniquely positioned to be India's soft power for the world. Speaking on the occasion, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, secretary of the Ministry of Ayush, expressed optimism about the Ayush sector's growth, crediting the increasing number of entrepreneurs entering the field. He highlighted the importance of Ayush expanding beyond wellness to therapeutic wellness. He underscored the need for pharmacovigilance systems to ensure Ayush product safety. Emphasising India's substantial domestic market, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha advocated for a focus on medical value travel and mentioned the formulation of Ayush policies in specific states. He highlighted the abundance of skill sets, infrastructure, and teams within the Ayush sector, discussing various schemes and initiatives propelling the sector forward. He also emphasised the roundtable's role in uniting industry leaders from Ayush drug manufacturing companies and sub-sectors like nutraceuticals and cosmeceuticals. Addressing the vast research and development opportunities in Ayush, the Secretary urged the simplification of intellectual property rights (IPR) processes. Tanuja Nesari, Director of AIIA, emphasised the global presence achieved through the establishment of GCTM and the transformative potential of technology in traditional medicine practices. The roundtable convened key figures in the Ayush sector, including Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush; Nivruti Rai, MD & CEO of Invest India; Tanuja Nesari, Director of AIIA, and Rabinarayan Acharya, DG of CCRAS. Their expert insights enriched discussions on Ayush's growth and global impact. The event facilitated a dynamic audience discussion, fostering diverse perspectives. Suruchi Mittar, Vice President of Invest India, delivered impactful closing remarks, summarising key takeaways and reaffirming a commitment to advancing the Ayush sector. Together, these key figures played pivotal roles in exploring investable opportunities and reinforcing the sector's strategic importance. Nivruti Rai, MD and CEO of Invest India, spoke on 'glocal': sourcing local, thinking global, and selling global. She underscored the need for India to align with the vision of 'Make in India' and 'Vocal for Local' initiatives, highlighting Invest India's pride in championing these initiatives for the Ayush sector. The event was facilitated by Invest India's Ayush Strategic Policy and Facilitation Bureau under the guidance of the Ministry of Ayush. The Roundtable saw the presence of CXOs and leaders from key Ayush sub-sectors such as drug manufacturing, extracts and derivatives, nutraceuticals, cosmeceuticals, wellness and services, etc. Companies with the largest expansion plans, global supply chains, and the highest promise of domestic or global leadership graced the event, showcasing India and Ayush as the faces of global health. The value chain was well represented in the event, with top players, right from the raw material stage to B2C players in attendance. During the event, dignitaries representing the Ayush industry received insights and guidance on future opportunities across sub-sectors, Ayush's global importance, and, most importantly, the urge to work closely with the Ministry of Ayush and Invest India to deepen and expand their investment projects in the sector. The emphasis was on investing in localised, high-quality supply chains, collaborating with global partners to cater to international demand, and seeking global investment in the sector's infrastructure & manpower to make it future-ready. In alignment with the Hon'ble Prime Minister's vision to 'Make in India' and be 'Vocal for Local,' Ayush was uniquely positioned to be India's soft power for the world. The Roundtable explored various investable opportunities and themes, domestic and global regulations, awareness, trust, and evidence acceptability, as well as better global market amplification and access. The event facilitated meaningful discussions, shared best practices, and matched global demand-side themes with Indian supply-side strengths to strengthen and grow Ayush in India for the world, paving the way for global investments. (ANI) Jharkhand Chief Minister Champai Soren informed on Thursday that the state's annual budget will presented by the end of February. During a brief interaction with the media on Thursday, Soren, to a question about the state budget, said, "It will be presented by the end of February." "I have reviewed everything related to the (Finance) department," he added. Earlier, on Tuesday, CM Soren said that his government will carry forward the policies and programmes championed by the former. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, CM Soren said the people of Jharkhand had elected his predecessor, handing him a decisive five-year mandate. "We had secured a five-year mandate to govern the state under the leadership of Hemant Soren. However, there was a plot to topple our government and stop us short of completing our full five-year term. We said earlier that there is no case against Hemant Soren. There may have been a change of guard at the helm but we are determined to carry forward his plans and vision for the state," Champai Soren said. On cabinet expansion, the CM said, "It will happen soon; have no worries about it." After an anxious wait during which the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) and its allies in the ruling coalition shipped its MLAs off to a hotel in Hyderabad amid fears of poaching attempts by the BJP, Champai Soren won the trust vote on Monday with a 47:29 majority. With 47 votes in its favour, the ruling combine led by the JMM sailed past the halfway mark of 41 in the 81-member Assembly. The Morcha, with 29 seats, and its ally Congress, with 17 seats, were confident of clearing the floor test. (ANI) Congress MP Manish Tewari has moved an adjournment motion in the Lok Sabha seeking a discussion on the border situation with China in the Lower House on Friday. The MP from Sri Anandpur Sahib constituency sought suspension of Zero Hour, Question Hour, and other businesses of the day. "Since 2019, there have been constant border clashes between India and China. The Government has stonewalled every attempt made by the Opposition to have a discussion regarding this urgent issue. Since this Budget Session is the final session of the 17th Lok Sabha prior to the General Elections, I request that this House be adjourned to discuss the India-China border situation," Tewari wrote in a letter to the Lok Sabha Secretary General. Earlier last week, Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi gave an adjournment motion notice in the Lok Sabha and sought a discussion on the border situation. The Congress MP said that a video had emerged showing Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) soldiers confronting Indian shepherds in Taklung Chorok Valley, blowing sirens to scare away livestock, and engaging in heated arguments. "This incident is deeply concerning as it highlights the ongoing border tensions between India and China, which have persisted since May 2020. While disengagement has occurred in some areas, tens of thousands of troops remain deployed on both sides, posing a significant threat to regional stability. Despite the government's assurances, the situation continues to be tense," he said. "The PLA's actions constitute a clear violation of Indian sovereignty and territorial integrity. The video evidence leaves no doubt that the soldiers trespassed onto Indian land, attempting to intimidate and coerce the local population," Gogoi added in his notice. The Congress MP added that the House cannot remain silent in the face of such blatant aggression. It must act decisively to uphold the nation's sovereignty and ensure the safety and security of the citizens. Meanwhile, as the Parliament will reconvene at 11 am today, members in Lok Sabha will participate in a discussion on the 'White Paper', tabled by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman comparing the economic management during 10 years of the Congress-led UPA government with that of 10 years of the Bharatiya Janata Party-ruled dispensation. In Rajya Sabha, the Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai will move the Jammu and Kashmir Local Bodies Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024, today for consideration and passage. The Bill provides amendment in the Jammu and Kashmir Panchayati Raj Act, 1989 (IX of 1989), the Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Act, 2000 (XX of 2000) and Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Corporation Act, 2000 (XXI of 2000), as passed by Lok Sabha, be taken into consideration. Union Minister Jitendra Singh will move the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024 in the Upper House for consideration and passage. The Bill aims to prevent unfair means in the public examinations and to provide for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto, as passed by Lok Sabha. Earlier on Wednesday, the Lower House passed the Finance Bill, 2024, marking the end of the Interim Budget exercise in the House. Union Finance Minister presented the Interim Budget on February 1, the second day of the ongoing Budget Session. The session, which started with the address by President Droupadi Murmu to the joint sitting of two Houses on January 31, has been extended by a day till Saturday. It was earlier to be concluded today. (ANI) Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt General KT Parnaik (Retd.) said that the state has 40 per cent of India's hydropower potential, which can spearhead the nation's aim for green energy, and also generate huge revenues for the state. While addressing the 13th session of the seventh Legislative Assembly in the state Legislative Assembly Hall, Itanagar on Thursday, the governor said, "Arunachal Pradesh includes 40 per cent of India's hydropower potential. This can spearhead the nation's aim for green energy, and also generate huge revenues for the state." "In the last 8 years, the state government has successfully commissioned the Payu Micro Hydel Station (MHS) at Pinchi with a total capacity of 500 Killo-Watt (kW), commissioned the 600 MW Kameng Hydro Power Project which Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and dedicated to the nation," he said. It has also commissioned a total of 17 projects to date under the Golden Jubilee Border Village Illumination programme and signed agreements with 3 central PSUs for kick-starting 13 stalled Mega Hydro Projects of 12,523 Mega-Watt (MW) capacity, he added. These projects entail a cumulative investment of close to Rs 1.4 lakh crore and will generate an annual revenue of Rs 10,000 crore when completed. Overall, the state government has invested a total of Rs 1,013.8 crore in the Hydropower sector in the last 7 years, with the singular impact of - a 213 per cent increase in our installed hydropower capacity from 405 MW in 2015-16 to 1,270 MW in 2022-23, making Arunachal the second power surplus State in the North-East. "The construction of the Subansiri Lower Hydro electrical Project with a capacity of 2,000 MW is nearing completion, making it the Largest Hydropower Dam in the country at present, which will only be surpassed by the 2,880 MW Dibang Multipurpose Project, when completed," the Arunachal Pradesh Governor said. The Governor also said that the Vibrant Village Programme (VVP) is a shining example of synergy and convergence to create infrastructure in the remotest areas of the State. "With the motto 'connectivity to activity to vibrancy' in our border areas - 1,452 villages have been systematically mapped, 455 priority villages have been identified for development, and 252 border habitations have been connected through the construction of 2,506 km of roads, to improve ease of living of remote rural communities," the Governor said. "As a result of these interventions, we have started witnessing the welcome reverse migration in many border area localities. I am confident that sustained focus of the Government on the VVP will further promote activity and vibrancy in these areas," he added. In his speech, the Governor said that, over the past eight years, Arunachal Pradesh has witnessed a remarkable surge in road infrastructure. "In this timeframe, despite challenges of terrain and weather, Chief Minister Pema Khandu and his team have constructed an extensive 19,863 km road network and successfully developed 2,482 km of national highways. As a result of focused investment in the road sector, in the last 8 years, there has been a 91per cent increase in the length of highways from 1,042 km in 2015-16 to 1,992 km in 2022-2023 and a 64 per cent increase in overall road length. The road density has increased from 36.65 Km/Sq.Km to 65.99 Km/Sq.Km since 2015-16 and 195 bridges have been built to connect the previously unconnected areas, he said. "We can look ahead to an additional 2,857 km of national highways, which are slated for construction, with a union government allocation of Rs 44,000 crore. 105 roads, covering 1,022 km and connecting 125 habitations, with an estimated cost of Rs 2,205 crore have been sanctioned under the Vibrant Village Programme," the Governor said. He also said that, in a historical development, seen only after 75 years of independence, the State now has its first full-fledged Donyi-Polo Airport at Hollongi, Itanagar, which has recently obtained an all-weather license. "Arunachal now boasts 4 airports at Hollongi, Pasighat, Tezu, and Ziro - all developed within the last 8 years," he said adding that the state had witnessed the transformational development and rapid progress of the country under the visionary and globally acknowledged leadership of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "We have made progress in leaps and bounds in all sectors under the dynamic and energetic leadership of Chief Minister Pema Khandu in the state. The 'Mantra' of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas', 'Sabka Vishwas' aur 'Sabka Prayas' of the Prime Minister has inspired my Government, very ably led by Pema Khandu, to toil and strive towards contributing to the vision of 'Viksit Bharat'," the Governor said. (ANI) Chairman of the High-Level Committee (HLC), Ram Nath Kovind and its members Dr N. K. Singh and Sanjay Kothari held personal interactions with the Members of the Republican Party of India-Athawale ( RPI) and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in regards to holding simultaneous elections in the country. Ramdas Athawale, MoS Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and President of the Republican Party of India (Athawale) presented his party's views on holding simultaneous elections in the country before the committee. Continuing the consultations, the HLC also had interactions with Pankaj Kumar Gupta, National Secretary and Jasmine Shah, senior leader of Aam Aadmi Party. They submitted their party's views before the Committee. On Wednesday, the Committee held personal interactions with D. Raja, General Secretary, of the Communist Party of India, as part of the consultations with political parties. D Raja submitted his views orally and in writing before the Committee. On Tuesday, the Committee held interactions with representatives of three political parties namely Trinamool Congress, Samajwadi Party and Communist Party of India (Marxist) on holding simultaneous elections in the country. Earlier, on January 27, Ram Nath Kovind held consultations with Justice U. U. Lalit, former Chief Justice of India and Justice Sanjib Banerjee, former Chief Justice of Madras High Court and Manan Kumar Mishra, Chairman of the Bar Council of India, who gave their considered opinion on the subject. Continuing his discussions with political parties, Ram Nath Kovind also held interactions with Deepak 'Pandurang' Dhavalikar, President, of Maharastrawadi Gomantak Party, Goa. The party has offered its strong support to the concept of One Nation One Election, inter alia because it will strengthen grassroots democracy. Recently, the Committee had also met a delegation of Lok Jan Shakti Party, comprising members including Pashupati Kumar Paras, Union Minister for Food Processing Industries, President Rashtriya Lok Janshakti Party (RLJP), Prince Raj (Member of Parliament, Samastipur, Lok Sabha), Sanjay Sarraf, Spokesperson, Rashtriya Lok Janshakti Party (RLJP), and Ramji Singh, General Secretary, Rashtriya Lok Janshakti Party (RLJP). The committee had also held consultations with eminent jurists Justice Dilip Bhosale, former Chief Justice of Allahabad High Court, and Justice Rajendra Menon, former Chief Justice of Delhi High Court, who gave their considered opinion on the subject. Initiating discussions with financial and economic experts, Ram Nath Kovind also held interactions with Ajay Singh, President of ASSOCHAM, and Chairman and Managing Director of Spicejet Airlines, who was also accompanied by the Secretary-General and Assistant Secretary-General of ASSOCHAM. Ajay Singh put forth his views in detail on the economic advantages of holding simultaneous elections for the nation. The High-Level Committee relating to the holding of simultaneous elections in the country has initiated a consultation process under the chairmanship of Ram Nath Kovind, former President of India. The High-Level Committee recently also sought public opinion regarding the one nation, one election issue. The public notice issued stated, "Notice for inviting suggestions from members of the general public for making appropriate changes in the existing legal administrative framework to enable simultaneous elections in the country." (ANI) The Rouse Avenue Court here on Friday granted interim bail to former Bihar Chief Minister Rabri Devi and her daughters Misa Bharti and Hema Yadav in connection with the Land-for-Jobs scam case till the next date of hearing. The matter has been listed for consideration on bail on February 28. A PMLA court had earlier issued notices against Amit Katyal, Rabri Devi, Misha Bharti, Hema Yadav, and Hridyanand Chaudhary to be present on February 9, 2024, for further trial in the alleged 'land for job scam', the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) stated in a release. While, Rabri, Misa, Hema appeared before the court, Amit Katyal appeared through video conferencing. The ED had filed a prosecution complaint (PC) on January 1, 2024, under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, against Amit Katyal, Rabri Devi, Misha Bharti, Hema Yadav, Hridyanand Chaudhary and two companies--A K Infosystems Private Limited, A B Exports Pvt. Ltd.--before the Special Court (PMLA), New Delhi, in the alleged scam. The premier agency initiated investigations based on an FIR registered by CBI related to land for job scam alleging that Lalu Yadav, the then Railway Minister, indulged in corruption for the appointment of Group D substitutes in Indian Railways during the period 2004-2009. The candidates were told to transfer land as a bribe in return for jobs in Indian Railways as per FIR. The CBI has also filed a charge sheet. The ED alleged that Lalu's kin--Rabri Devi, Misha Bharti, Hema Yadav--who are accused in the prosecution complaint--received the land parcel(s) from family of candidates (who were selected as Group D substitutes in the Indian Railways) for nominal amounts. While taking cognizance of the charge sheet, the court said that there is sufficient ground to take cognizance. ED had submitted that in 2006-07, AK Infosystem was formed by Amit Katyal and its business was IT data analysis. No real business was done. Instead, several land parcels were bought by the company. One land parcel pertains to the main predicate offence, which is land for a job. This company was transferred in the name of Rabri Devi and Tejaswi Yadav in 2014 for the consideration of Rs one lakh, ED submitted. On January 9, the ED filed a prosecution complaint (charge sheet) in Land for a job scam money laundering case. ED has named Bihar's ex-CM Rabri Devi, her daughters Misa Bharti and Hema Yadav, Hridyanand Chaudhary, and Amit Katyal. Two firms, AB Export and AK Infosystems, have also been accused. (ANI) Amid the opposition's fury over the murder of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Abhishek Ghosalkar, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Friday said that a detailed investigation will be conducted. Former corporater and Shivsena UBT leader Abhishek Ghosalkar succumbed in hospital to bullet injuries on Thursday after being shot during a social media live session in Mumbai's Dahisar allegedly by a lone assailant whom the police identified as Mauris Noronha also known as Morris Bhai. Later, Noronha, too, shot himself dead, according to the police. An investigation has been taken over by the Mumbai Crime Branch. Talking to reporters here today, Ajit Pawar said, "Such an incident should not have happened in Maharashtra. It is clearly visible in the video that the two shared cordial relations. Despite this, if such a thing happens, then the entire matter should be investigated." "I do not deny that the opposition has found an issue to defame the government and demand the resignation of the Home Minister, but the background of this entire matter should also be seen. The Chief Minister and the Deputy Chief Minister also held a meeting yesterday, and the matter is being investigated," he added. Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis also described the killing of Ghosalkar as "serious and saddening" and said that no one should politicise the incident. "The entire incident of Abhishek Ghosalkar being shot dead and the accused killing himself is serious and saddening. No one should politicise this incident. The investigation is underway," Fadnavis said.Meanwhile, the mortal remains of the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader have been brought to his residence in Mumbai's Borivali. Earlier, Mumbai Police said that one person, identified as Mehul, was detained in connection with the matter on Friday. The police also informed that after investigation of the incident spot, which continued for seven hours, the police recovered a pistol, a live cartridge, and CCTV footage. The police said that a case has also been registered against deceased Noronha under section 302 of the IPC, Sections 3 and 25 of the Arms Act, Section 37 (1) (A), and Section 135 of the Maharashtra Police Act.Meanwhile, the Crime Branch on Friday alleged there was a rivalry between the victim and his assailant in connection to the Dahisar firing incident. Speaking to ANI, DCP (Crime Branch) Raj Tilak Roushan said, "There was an incident of firing in the jurisdiction of MHB police station in which two persons died. Further investigation by the Crime Branch is underway. We are also in the process of registering an FIR in the matter. We will also probe if the assailant had a valid licence for the firearm (used for the crime). The matter is being probed from all angles." "The officers from the Crime Branch are carrying out the probe. Prima facie, it seems there was some kind of a rivalry between these two and the killing may have been a fallout of the same," the DCP (Crime Branch) added. Mumbai Police informed earlier that the Dahisar firing case had been handed over to the Crime Branch."We received information about firing and immediately reached the spot. Both the injured persons (the victim and the assailant) were rushed to a hospital. However, both succumbed to their injuries. A detailed investigation is underway into the incident. (Forensic) Samples are being collected and the matter is being investigated from all angles. An FIR is being registered and the case has been handed over to the Crime Branch," DCP Datta Nalawade told reporters earlier. The incident evoked fury from several opposition leaders in the state, with Sena (UBT) leader and MP Sanjay Raut demanding the resignation of CM Shinde and his deputy Devendra Fadnavis. Taking to his official X handle, Raut posted, "There is a reign of goons in Maharashtra! Mauris Noronha, who shot Abhishek Ghosalkar four days ago, was at the (CM's) bungalow. The chief minister met him." "Mauris was invited to join the Shinde Sena. (Devendra) Fadnavis has proved to be a complete failure as Home Minister. He must resign," Raut claimed in his post. (ANI) Former Prime Minister and veteran leader of Congress, Late P V Narsimha Rao will be conferred with the country's highest civilian award Bharat Ratna, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Friday. Taking to X, PM Modi said that as a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao served India extensively in various capacities. "Delighted to share that our former Prime Minister, PV Narasimha Rao Garu, will be honoured with the Bharat Ratna. As a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao Garu served India extensively in various capacities. He is equally remembered for the work he did as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Union Minister, and as a Member of Parliament and Legislative Assembly for many years. His visionary leadership was instrumental in making India economically advanced, laying a solid foundation for the country's prosperity and growth," the PM said. "Narasimha Rao Garu's tenure as Prime Minister was marked by significant measures that opened India to global markets, fostering a new era of economic development. Furthermore, his contributions to India's foreign policy, language and education sectors underscore his multifaceted legacy as a leader who not only steered India through critical transformations but also enriched its cultural and intellectual heritage," he added. Born on June 28, 1921, in Karimnagar, Telangana, being an agriculturist and an advocate, Narsimha Rao joined politics and held some important portfolios. He was the Minister of Law and Information, 1962-64; Law and Endowments, 1964-67; Health and Medicine, 1967 and Education, 1968-71, Government of Andhra Pradesh. He was the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh from 1971-73 and General Secretary of the All India Congress Committee from 1975-76. A man of many interests, his special interest was in Indian philosophy and culture, writing fiction and political commentary, learning languages, writing poems in Telugu and Hindi and keeping abreast of literature in general. He successfully published 'SahasraPhan', a Hindi translation of late Shri Viswanatha Satyanarayana's famous Telegu Novel 'Veyi Padagalu'; 'Abala Jeevitam', Telugu translation of late Shri Hari Narayan Apte's famous Marathi Novel, "Pan Lakshat Kon gheto". He translated other famous works from Marathi to Telugu and from Telugu to Hindi, and published many articles in different magazines. He lectured at Universities in the U.S.A. and West Germany on political matters and allied subjects. During the period when he was Minister of External Affairs, Rao successfully brought to bear his scholarly background and rich political and administrative experience in the field of international diplomacy. He chaired the III Conference of UNIDO at New Delhi in January 1980, within a few days of assuming charge. He also chaired a meeting of the Group of 77 in New York in March 1980. Narsimha Rao was also the Leader of the Special Non-aligned Mission that visited countries in West Asia in November 1983, to resolve the Palestinian Liberation Organisation. He was associated actively with the Commonwealth Heads of Government in New Delhi and with the Action Group set up by the meeting on the question of Cyprus. He is credited with bringing many economic reforms in the country, particularly for dismantling the License Raj in the country. It was during Rao's term that he appointed Manmohan Singh as the Finance Minister, who ushered in a series of economic reforms to lift the country from a worsening economic crisis. Rao was a six-time MP and died at the age of 83 in 2004. (ANI) The Rouse Avenue court on Friday granted interim bail to former Bihar Chief Minister Rabri Devi, her daughters -- Misa Bharti and Hema Yadav -- and other accused persons in the Land-for-Jobs money laundering case. They were summoned by the court after taking cognizance of the charge sheet filed by the Directorate of Enforcement (ED). Special Judge Vishal Gogne granted interim bail to Rabri Devi her daughters and Hridyanand Chaudhary on furnishing bail bond of Rs one lakh and surety bond in the like amount. Accuse Amit Katyal is already on interim bail on medical grounds. The ED said that they will file a reply on the bail application. "They may be granted interim bail till the reply is filed. The interim bail is granted till the reply is filed," the court noted. The next date of hearing for consideration on bail is February 28, 2024. Special public prosecutor Manish Jain for ED sought time for filing the reply. Meanwhile, they may be granted interim till the reply is filed, he submitted. Senior advocate Maninder Singh counsel for the accused argued that they are entitled to bail in view of the Supreme Court judgement as they were not arrested during the investigation. After hearing submissions, the court said that during the investigation ED did not find it necessary to arrest the accused. "There is no reason for committing the accused to custody," the Court said. The court granted interim bail to Rabri Devi, Misa Bharti and Hema Yadav till the next date of hearing. The court directed ED to file a reply on the bail application. The court directed to supply the charge sheet and documents to the accused persons filed by the ED. Rabri Devi, Misa Bharti, Hema Yadav and others reached Rouse Avenue Court to appear in the Land-For-Jobs money laundering case. They were summoned by the court after taking Cognizance of the charge sheet filed by the Enforcement Directorate. Rabri Devi, Misa Bharti and Hema Yadav and Hridyanand Chaudhary appeared physically. Amit Katyal appeared through video conferencing The Rouse Avenue court on January 27, issued summons to former Bihar CM Rabri Devi, Misa Bharti, Hema Yadav, Hridyanand Chaudhary and other accused in Land for Job money laundering case. Special Judge Vishal Gogne had issued summons to accused persons after taking Cognizance of Charge sheet filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The court issued production warrant to produce Amit Katyal on the next date of hearing. Two firms namely A K Infosystem and A B Export have also been made accused in this case. Cognizance has been taken against these firms. While taking Cognizance of the charge sheet the court said that there is sufficient material to take cognizance. ED had submitted that In 2006-07 A K infosystem was formed by Amit Katyal and its business was IT data analysis. No real business was done. Instead, several land parcels were bought by the company. One land parcel pertains to the main predicate offence that is land for job. This company was transferred in the name of Rabri Devi and Tejaswi Yadav in 2014 for the consideration of one lakh Rupees, ED submitted. ED had submitted that Amit Katyal is the only arrested accused. Other accused are Rabri Devi, Misa Bharti, Hema Yadav, A K infosystem, A B export and Hridyanand Chaudhary. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on January 9, 2024, filed a Prosecution Complaint (Charge sheet) in Land for job scam money laundering case. ED has named Bihar's Ex-CM Rabri Devi, her daughters Misa Bharti and Hema Yadav, Hridyanand Chaudhary along with Amit Katyal. Two firms AB Export and AK Infosystems have also been made accused. SPP Jain submitted that Amit Katyal was the director of AK infosystem. "As far as Rabri Devi is also an accused in predicate offence in CBI case..Misa Bharti is an accused in the predicate offence. Hridyanand Chaudhary is also an accused in predicate offence and was arrested," he said. Advocate Manish Jain and Ishan Baisla also submitted that A B Export was supposed to be in the business of export. It was incorporated in 1996. In 2007, Rs five crore came through five companies and a property in New Friends colony was purchased. In this case, seven land parcels are involved. Out of these Rabri, Hema Yadav, and Misa Bharti got land parcels. Later on They sold out their land parcels. ED's Special Public Prosecutors Manish Jain and advocate Ishan Baisla had apprised the court that the Yadav Family members are beneficiaries of proceeds of crime. Katyal has been arrested and is in custody. The other accused persons have charge sheeted without arrest. Katyal's firm was charge-sheeted in the CBI case also. The Rouse Avenue Court on November 23, 2023, had sent Businessman Amit Katyal, promoter of AK Infosystems to Judicial Custody. He was arrested by ED in an alleged land-for-jobs scam case. Katyal is said to be a close aide of former railways minister Lalu Prasad Yadav. The Delhi High Court had refused to quash Enforcement Directorate (ED) proceedings against Amit Katyal, who is accused of engaging in transactions with the family members of former railways minister Lalu Prasad Yadav. Earlier the lawyers for Katyal had submitted that the original FIR was registered on May, 18, 2022 by CBI and period of transaction is 2004-09. ED registered ECIR on 16.8.22 in relation to this. CBI has concluded the investigation and I am cited as a protected witness. My arrest is illegal and is contrary to Section 19, Lawyer argued for Katyal. According to the ED in March month, based on the specific intelligence inputs, searches were conducted at 24 locations at various places in Delhi NCR, Patna, Mumbai and Ranchi in the Railways Land for Job Scam, which resulted in recovery of unaccounted cash of Rs 1 Crore, foreign currency including USD 1900, 540 gms gold bullion and more than 1.5 kg of gold jewellery (worth Rs 1.25 Crores approximately), several other incriminating documents including various property documents, sale deeds etc held in the names of family members and benamidaars indicating illegal accretion of huge land bank and electronic devices. Searches resulted in detection of Proceeds of Crime amounting to Rs 600 Crore approximately at this point of time which is in the form of immovable properties of Rs 350 Crore and transactions of Rs 250 Crore routed through various benamidaars, ED stated. According to the ED PMLA investigation conducted so far has revealed that several pieces of land at prominent locations in Patna and other areas were illegally acquired by the family of the then Rail Mantri, Lalu Prasad Yadav in lieu of jobs provided in Railways. The current market value of these land parcels is more than Rs 200 Crore. In this regard, several benamidars, shell entities and beneficial owners for these lands have been identified. Further, investigation under PMLA revealed that the property situated at New Friends Colony, Delhi (independent four-storied bungalow, registered in the name of M/s A B Exports Private Limited, a company owned and controlled by Tejashwi Prasad Yadav and family) was shown to have been acquired at a value of mere Rs 4 Lakhs, the present market value of which is approximately Rs 150 crore. It is suspected that huge amount of cash/Proceeds of Crime has been infused in purchasing this property and few Mumbai based entities, dealing in the gems and jewellery sector were used to channel ill-gotten proceeds of crime in this regard. The property has been though, on paper declared as office of M/s A B Exports Private Limited and M/s AK Infosystems Pvt ltd, it is being exclusively used as residential premises by Tejasvi Prasad Yadav, son of Lalu Prasad Yadav. During the searches, Tejasvi Prasad Yadav was found to be staying at this house and was found to be using this house as his residential property. ED investigation has found that 4 parcels of lands acquired by the family of Lalu Yadav in just Rs 7.5 lakhs from poor Group-D applicants were sold to Syed Abu Dojana, Ex-RJD MLA by Mrs Rabri Devi with huge gains at Rs 3.5 crore in a collusive deal. ED investigation further revealed that a major portion of the amount thus received, was transferred to the account of Sh. Tejashwi Prasad Yadav.Investigations revealed that in the similar fashion, lands were taken from several poor parents and candidates in lieu of Group D jobs in the Railways. It has been revealed during the investigation that in many Railways Zones, more than 50% of recruited candidates were from Lalu Yadav families' constituencies, stated ED. (ANI) Stressing that the global financial crisis in 2008 wasn't as serious as the COVID-19 pandemic, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday said that the then Congress-led UPA government should have handled it with sincerity and transparency. The White Paper compares the alleged economic management during 10 years of the Congress-led UPA government with the what the government says are the positive outcomes of 10 years of the BJP-ruled dispensation. NK Premachandran of Congress and Saugata Roy of TMC moved substitute motions under rule 342 of the rules of procedure and conduct of business, saying the House disapproves the contents of the White Paper. During her speech, Sitharaman said, "(The) 10 years of one government with some crises and 10 years of a different government with a different crisis, the comparison shown in this paper clearly says how if the government handles it with true sincerity, transparency and putting the nation first, the results are there for everybody to see." She said, "Equally when you don't put the nation first, when you put your first family first and when you have other considerations, then the results are there for you to see." "Two examples should be taken. The global financial crisis after 2008 wasn't as serious as COVID-19. Still, I would want to say that it was a crisis and the government should have handled it with sincerity and transparency," Sitharaman said. She said during the global financial crisis, whatever should have been done to protect India's interest, was not done. "But even after that, scandals continued, leaving the country in such a critical state. God only knows, if the government had continued, what would have been the condition of this country today," the Finance Minister said. While the sloganeering continued from the Opposition Benches, Sitharaman, in a response to it, said, "This is a serious document, I am reiterating that it has serious topics. It must be taken seriously." The nearly 60-page White Paper was tabled in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha by Sitharaman on Thursday. The White Paper alleged that the UPA government abandoned reforms after coming to power in 2004 and that it failed to build on the strong foundation laid by the previous BJP-led NDA government. The White Paper said that there were scandals in defence which compromised defence preparedness and the government delayed the acquisition of weapons. "In the UPA government, decision-making came to a standstill due to corruption and scandals in defence, compromising defence preparedness. The government delayed the acquisition of artillery and anti-aircraft guns, fighters, submarines, night fighting gear and a host of equipment upgrades," the report said. It also referred to the "coal scam", saying allocation of coal blocks was done on "arbitrary basis". "The coal scam shook the conscience of the nation in 2014. Before 2014, the allocation of coal blocks was done on an arbitrary basis without following a transparent process to allocate the blocks. The coal sector was excluded from competition and transparency and the sector lacked investments and efficiencies. These actions were scrutinised by investigation agencies, and in 2014, the Supreme Court of India cancelled the allocation of 204 coal mines/blocks allocated since 1993," the paper said. It said controversies such as 2G spectrum scam, coal gate scam and the Common Wealth Games (CWG) reflected poorly on India's image as an investment destination. (ANI) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for conferring Bharat Ratna to former PM PV Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh. Taking to the social media platform X, the Union Home Minister said the Bharat Ratna is a tribute to Narasimha Rao, who shaped the history of the nation with an iconoclastic vision, intellect, and statesmanship. "Bharat Ratna to former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao Garu is a befitting tribute to the legendary statesman who shaped the history of our nation with an iconoclastic vision, intellect, and statesmanship. The contributions of PV Narasimha Rao Ji in navigating our economy safely through one of the most turbulent times to an era of inclusive progress will always be remembered. As we celebrate the versatile leadership of PV Narasimha Rao Ji, I also express my heartfelt gratitude to PM Narendra Modi Ji for the decision to honour the political and intellectual giant with the most prestigious award," Shah wrote on X. In another post, the Home Minister hailed the contribution of Chaudhary Charan Singh and said that the latter remained dedicated to preserving democratic values throughout his life and he fought the Emergency boldly. "Extremely happy with the announcement of former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh being honoured with 'Bharat Ratna'. Chaudhary Saheb, who was dedicated to farmers throughout his life, did many works for the welfare of farmers. Chaudhary Saheb remained dedicated to preserving democratic values throughout his life and he fought the Emergency boldly. Through his decisions, he told the entire country that a farmer's son can take policy decisions ranging from the country's livelihood. I express my gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji for honouring crores of farmers and hardworking people of the country through the honour of Chaudhary Saheb," Shah posted on X. Former Prime Minister PV Narsimha Rao, Chaudhary Charan Singh and MS Swaminathan will be given the Bharat Ratna, PM Modi announced on Friday. Taking to X, PM Modi said that as a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao served India extensively in various capacities. "Delighted to share that our former Prime Minister, PV Narasimha Rao Garu, will be honoured with the Bharat Ratna. As a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao Garu served India extensively in various capacities. He is equally remembered for the work he did as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Union Minister, and as a Member of Parliament and Legislative Assembly for many years. His visionary leadership was instrumental in making India economically advanced, laying a solid foundation for the country's prosperity and growth," the PM said. Remembering Chaudhary Charan Singh, PM Modi said "It is the good fortune of our government that former Prime Minister of the country Chaudhary Charan Singh is being honoured with Bharat Ratna. This honour is dedicated to his incomparable contribution to the country. He had dedicated his entire life to the rights and welfare of farmers. Be it the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh or the Home Minister of the country, even as an MLA, he always gave impetus to nation-building. He also stood firm against the Emergency. His dedication to our farmer brothers and sisters and his commitment to democracy during the Emergency are inspiring to the entire nation." (ANI) The nodal agency for implementing the Bengaluru Suburban Rail Project, Rail Infrastructure Development Company (Karnataka), K-RIDE, and Luxemburg-based KFW Development Bank inked an MoU on Friday for accommodating funds of Rs. 4561 crore for the Bengaluru Suburban Rail Project (BSRP). N. Manjula, Managing Director, K-RIDE, and Wolf Muth, Country Director, KFW Development Bank, signed and exchanged the documents in the presence of Infrastructure Development Minister MB Patil. As per the agreement, KFW would provide Rs 4,561 crore at 4% interest for 20 years. This is the supplementary agreement between Germany's KfW and KRIDE (Rail Infrastructure Development Company-Karnataka), followed by the primary agreement between the Department of Economic Affairs, Govt. of India and KfW for the disbursal of Rs 4561 crore, which took place on December 15, 2023. Speaking on the occasion, Infrastructure Development Minister MB Patil said that the agreement highlights how the project is going to be executed under the loan. He added that it mentions the terms and conditions of the loan towards the project, its repayment schedule, and its obligations. This loan of Rs 4561 crore aimed at addressing critical infrastructure needs would be utilised for the works of Corridor-3 (Kengeri to Whitefield) Station & Viaduct, Corridor-4 (Heelalige to Rajanukunte) Station work, Depot-1 (Devanahalli), S&T Signal & Telecom), PSD Platform Screen Door), AFC (Automatic Fare Collection), Solar Panel and Security Equipment, MMI (Man Machine Interface), Patil explained. "The government is committed to ensuring transparency and accountability in the utilisation of loan proceeds. Robust monitoring mechanisms will be in place to track expenditure and ensure that funds are used efficiently to maximize socio-economic benefits for our citizens" the Minister remarked. Savings, the target has been set to complete work in all four corridors by December 2027. He opined that the implementation of BSRP funded by the loan will contribute to better mobility for citizens, reduced vehicular pollution, and the creation of a better environment, resulting in improved quality of life in the city of Bengaluru. BSRP, sanctioned through the Ministry of Railways for a project cost of Rs 15,767 crore, aims to develop a suburban railway network of 148 km with 58 stations along 4 corridors. The project is funded through the equity contribution of Gok, the Ministry of Railways and external borrowing in the ratio of 20:20:60. Along with N Manjula and Wolf Muth, Urban Development Department Secretary Rakesh Singh, Ms Swati Khanna, Senior Specialist, KFW, Urban & Mobility and other dignitaries were also present. (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced that former PMs Chaudhary Charan Singh and PV Narasimha Rao will be conferred the Bharat Ratna. Along with them, MS Swaminathan also known as the father of the green revolution will also be awarded the country''s highest civilian award. In a line-up post on X, PM Modi said that as a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao served India extensively in various capacities. "Delighted to share that our former Prime Minister, PV Narasimha Rao Garu, will be honoured with the Bharat Ratna. As a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao Garu served India extensively in various capacities. He is equally remembered for the work he did as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Union Minister, and as a Member of Parliament and Legislative Assembly for many years. His visionary leadership was instrumental in making India economically advanced, laying a solid foundation for the country''s prosperity and growth," the PM said. "Narasimha Rao Garu''s tenure as Prime Minister was marked by significant measures that opened India to global markets, fostering a new era of economic development. Furthermore, his contributions to India''s foreign policy, language and education sectors underscore his multifaceted legacy as a leader who not only steered India through critical transformations but also enriched its cultural and intellectual heritage," he added. Born on June 28, 1921, in Karimnagar, Telangana, being an agriculturist and an advocate, Narsimha Rao joined politics and held some important portfolios. He was the Minister of Law and Information, 1962-64; Law and Endowments, 1964-67; Health and Medicine, 1967 and Education, 1968-71, Government of Andhra Pradesh. He was the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh from 1971-73 and General Secretary of the All India Congress Committee from 1975-76. Taking to the social media platform, PM Modi said this honour is dedicated to the former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh''s incomparable contribution to the country. "It is the good fortune of our government that former Prime Minister of the country Chaudhary Charan Singh is being honoured with Bharat Ratna. This honour is dedicated to his incomparable contribution to the country. He had dedicated his entire life to the rights and welfare of farmers. Be it the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh or the Home Minister of the country, even as an MLA, he always gave impetus to nation-building. He also stood firm against the Emergency. His dedication to our farmer brothers and sisters and his commitment to democracy during the Emergency are inspiring to the entire nation," PM posted on X. Swaminathan, a prominent figure in Indian agriculture famed for his leading role in India''s ''Green Revolution'', will be conferred the honour posthumously, the Prime Minister said. On September 28, last year Swaminathan passed away at the age of 98 at his residence in Chennai. Taking to ''X'' PM Modi, said Swaminathan''s visionary leadership has not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured the nation''s food security and prosperity. "It is a matter of immense joy that the Government of India is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dr MS Swaminathan, in recognition of his monumental contributions to our nation in agriculture and farmers'' welfare. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture during challenging times and made outstanding efforts towards modernizing Indian agriculture. We also recognise his invaluable work as an innovator and mentor and encouraging learning and research among several students. Dr. Swaminathan''s visionary leadership has not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured the nation''s food security and prosperity. He was someone I knew closely and l always valued his insights and inputs," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a post on ''X''. Trained as a plant geneticist, Swaminathan''s significant contributions to India''s agricultural sector have earned him a reputation as the scientific leader of India''s green revolution movement. His work has been instrumental in the agricultural renaissance of India. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that our government under the leadership of PM Modi ji has taken cognizance of this for the first time. We make such decisions only after rising above politics. BJP National President JP Nadda also extended his wishes and said that the work done by Chaudhary Charan Singh for farmers is unforgettable. (ANI) The Supreme Court on Friday came down heavily on the Uttar Pradesh government for its lackadaisical attitude for not providing counselling to the Muslim student who was slapped by classmates on the instruction of a teacher in Muzaffarnagar for not doing his homework. A bench of Justices Abhay S Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan observed that there has been a complete breach of its directions by the Uttar Pradesh government. Irked with the State government for non-compliance of its direction, the apex court noted that its directions to provide counselling to all the children who were made perpetrators of the offence has not been complied with. "See the State's affidavit. There has been a complete breach of our directions. None of the kids have been given counselling. We had even given names of organisations. This has to be done in letter and spirit," said the bench. It directed the counsel appearing for the government to counsel the children who witnessed the incident and file a compliance affidavit in two weeks. "We have perused the latest TISS report which calls for counselling of all the students who had taken part in corporal punishment as participants and witnesses. Nothing has been done by the State, it is too late in the day. We direct the State to immediately implement the directions, especially for the witness children," the bench stated in its order. It asked the State government to file an affidavit by February 28 and posted the matter for hearing on March 1. Earlier, while noting that no counselling had been conducted for any of the children involved in the incident, it had asked Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai to suggest the mode and manner of counselling. The apex court was hearing a plea filed by Tushar Gandhi, the great-grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, seeking a speedy investigation in the case. A case was registered against a teacher in Muzaffarnagar who allegedly encouraged her students to slap a classmate. The purported video of the incident created an outrage on social media. The teacher, Tripta Tyagi, was booked after a video showed her asking her students to slap the Class 2 boy in Khubbapur village and also making a communal remark. The teacher was accused of making communal comments and ordering her students to slap a Muslim classmate for not doing his homework. The State Education Department had also served notice to the private school. The FIR was registered against the school teacher under Section 323 (punishment for causing voluntarily hurt), and Section 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of peace) of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 (IPC). The petition sought direction for a time-bound and independent investigation by the Police, and prescription of preventive and remedial measures within the school systems in relation to violence against children, including those belonging to religious minorities. (ANI) Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) provides health coverage up to Rs 5 lakh per family per year to poor and vulnerable families, said the Union government in a statement. It also said that 55 crore Ayushman Bharat Health Accounts (ABHA) have been created so far. Grants to the tune of Rs 70,051 crores recommended by the Fifteenth Finance Commission have been disbursed to local governments for five years. To address the healthcare challenges, particularly in rural areas, the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) was launched in 2005 to supplement the efforts of the State/UT governments to provide accessible, affordable and quality healthcare to all those who access public health facilities. NHM support is provided to all States/UTs including Maharashtra, for the setting up of new facilities as per norms and the upgrading of existing facilities to bridge the infrastructure gaps based on the requirements posed by them. The government has launched four mission mode projects, namely PM-Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM), Ayushman Arogya Mandir, Ayushman Bharat Health & Wellness Centres (AB-HWCs), Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) and Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM). The measures under the PM-ABHIM focus on developing the capacities of health systems and institutions across the continuum of care at all levels, primary, secondary and tertiary, to prepare health systems to respond effectively to current and future pandemics/disasters. Through the 1.64 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandir, comprehensive primary healthcare is provided by strengthening Sub Health Centres (SHCs) and Primary Health Centres (PHCs). These Ayushman Arogya Mandir (AAM) provide preventive, promotive, rehabilitative and curative care for an expanded range of services encompassing reproductive and child healthcare services, Communicable diseases, Non-communicable diseases and other health issues. Ayushman Bharat, Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) provides health coverage up to Rs. 5.00 lakh per family per year to poor and vulnerable families. The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) aims to develop the backbone necessary to support the integrated digital health infrastructure of the country. It will bridge the existing gap among different stakeholders in the healthcare ecosystem through digital highways. As of 08.02.2024, 55 crore Ayushman Bharat Health Accounts (ABHA) have been created. The Fifteenth Finance Commission (FC-XV) has recommended grants through local governments for specific components of the health sector to the tune of Rs 70,051 crores and the same has been accepted by the Union Government. These grants for health through local governments will be spread over a five-year period from FY 2021-22 to FY 2025-26 and will facilitate the strengthening of the health system at the grassroots level. The Union Health Ministry provides technical and financial support to the States/UTs to strengthen the public healthcare system based on the proposals received in the form of Programme Implementation Plans (PIPs) under the National Health Mission. The government of India provides approval for the proposals in the form of Record of Proceedings (RoPs) as per norms & available resources. (ANI) The Rajya Sabha on Friday passed three legislations relating to Jammu and Kashmir including the bill to provide reservation to Other Backward Classes in local bodies to bring consistency in the local bodies' laws of the Union territory with the provisions of the Constitution. Rajya Sabha passed the Jammu and Kashmir Local Bodies Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024, Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Castes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2024 and Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2024. The three bills have been passed by Lok Sabha. Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai replied to the debate on the Jammu and Kashmir Local Bodies Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024. Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Virendra Kumar answered the debate on the bill relating to Scheduled Castes Order and Union Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda to the bill relating to Scheduled Tribes Order. Munda said that the three bills brought after the abrogation of Article 370 were aimed at giving justice to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He said the people of Jammu and Kashmir will get "political reservation for the first time". The Jammu and Kashmir Local Bodies Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024 seeks to provide reservation to Other Backward Classes in the panchayats and the municipalities in Jammu and Kashmir and to bring consistency in the local bodies laws of the Union territory with the provisions of the Constitution. It seeks to amend the Jammu and Kashmir Panchayati Raj Act, 1989, the Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Act, 2000 and the Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Corporation Act, 2000. Officials said that provisions pertaining to state Election Commissioner in the Jammu and Kashmir Panchayati Raj Act "are at variance" with the provisions of the Constitution. They said said Jammu and Kashmir administration had recommended the inclusion of the Valmiki community as a synonym of Chura, Bhangi, Balmiki, Mehtar at serial number 5 in the list of Scheduled Castes of Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Castes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2023 proposes to amend the Schedule of the Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Castes Order, 1956 for inclusion of 'Valmiki'. The officials said that the Jammu and Kashmir administration has requested for inclusion of the "Gadda Brahmin", "Koli", "Paddari Tribe" communities and "Pahari Ethnic Group" in the list of Scheduled Tribes. The Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2023 proposes to amend the Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order, 1989. (ANI) The Supreme Court on Friday asked the Delhi Government to file a reply to a plea whether raising the issue as to whether the specification of 'life sentence' would mean the whole life or can it be commuted or remitted by way of remission. A bench of justices Hrishikesh Roy and Prashant Kumar Mishra issued notice on the plea filed by alleged serial killer Chanderkant Jha. Jha in his plea filed through advocate Rishi Malhotra has urged the top court to allow his petition which raised the issue of whether the petitioner can be awarded a -fixed period of sentence keeping in view of the ratio in the Swamy Shraddanand case. Advocate Rishi Malhotra has raised the issue as to whether the specification of 'life sentence' would mean the whole life or can be commuted or remitted by way of remission powers under Section 432 of CrPC. Jha has been convicted of murder and tampering of evidence charges have been sentenced to life imprisonment until natural life. Delhi High Court has upheld a trial court order convicting him under the murder charges. Advocate Malhotra mentioned that Section 302 of IPC expressly mentioned two punishments i.e. one is punishment of death and the second is imprisonment for life and does not mention any other punishment apart from these two. He submitted that the legislature has not intended consciously to amend Section 302 of IPC and add the till natural life instead of only life. Therefore, the law does not contemplate that life means natural only. "It is pertinent to mention here that if imprisonment for life is construed as natural life then it violates the fundamental right of a convicted person. Therefore, it is submitted that imposition of such imprisonment till natural life for the offence under Section 302 of IPC is unconstitutional, interalia for the reason that it completely snatches the chance of reformation of an individual and violates remission policy and rules prescribed by the State Governments," the petition said. "Reformation is one of the most important aspects of jurisprudence of theory of punishment. Larger numbers of judgments have shown that even in case of heinous crime there is a chance of reformation of a convict. This Court has commuted sentences in many cases and directed various State Governments to consider the case of a convict for remission in most cases provides for a minimum sentence of 20/25/30 years of sentence," the petition said. Chandra Kant Jha, who was convicted in three different FIRs for an offence punishable under Section 302 (murder) IPC, was awarded the punishment of life imprisonment with a direction that he would not be released on remission for the remainder of his natural life. Jha, who hails from Bihar, had allegedly killed six people from 2003 to 2007. After killing, Jha dumped the headless body outside the Tihar jail with notes to Delhi Police, challenging them to catch him. (ANI) Stressing the need for a compulsory training for every lawyer, the Supreme court on Friday said if judges attend National Judicial Academy for training why can't lawyers be trained. A bench of Justices Bela M. Trivedi and Pankaj Mithal made these remarks while hearing the bail plea of Souvik Bhattacharya, son of Trinamool Congress leader Manik Bhattacharya. The remark came when the court was apprised of the fact by the senior advocate Sidharth Luthra for Bhattacharya that despite the absence of a summoning order, a bail application was filed by one of the lawyers in the trial court. The court commented that if judges can go to the National Judicial Academy, why not lawyers. The court also said that lawyers must have a certificate from a recognised law university; otherwise, they must not be permitted to practice. The court also observed that there is a law academy for judges and asked why is it not for lawyers. The court also noted that no action is being taken against erring lawyers by the Bar Council. The court stressed the need for proper education and compulsory training for every lawyer, including the senior advocates. Senior Advocate Luthra said that it is a good suggestion and he will ask BCI chairman Mishra to develop such a practice. Meanwhile, the top court while deffering the matter asked Additional Solicitor General S V Raju, appearing for the Enforcement Directorate, to verify if there was any summoning order passed by the court. Manik and Souvik Bhattacharya are facing probes in matter connecting to alleged irregularities in teacher recruitment in West Bengal. (ANI) Following the announcement of the 'Bharat Ratna' for former Prime Ministers Chaudhary Charan Singh and PV Narsimha Rao and agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan, Samajwadi Party leader Shivpal Singh said on Friday that the party had put forward the same demand several times. Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the country's highest civilian award--Bharat Ratna--would be conferred on former PMs Chaudhary Charan Singh and PV Narsimha Rao, and agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan. "I had put forward this demand several times. Now, congratulations on the fulfilment of the demand," Yadav told ANI. Earlier today, in a line-up post on X, PM Modi said that as a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao served India extensively in various capacities. "Delighted to share that our former Prime Minister, PV Narasimha Rao Garu, will be honoured with the Bharat Ratna. As a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao Garu served India extensively in various capacities. He is equally remembered for the work he did as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Union Minister, and as a Member of Parliament and Legislative Assembly for many years. His visionary leadership was instrumental in making India economically advanced, laying a solid foundation for the country's prosperity and growth," the PM said. "Narasimha Rao Garu's tenure as Prime Minister was marked by significant measures that opened India to global markets, fostering a new era of economic development. Furthermore, his contributions to India's foreign policy, language and education sectors underscore his multifaceted legacy as a leader who not only steered India through critical transformations but also enriched its cultural and intellectual heritage," he added. Born on June 28, 1921, in Karimnagar, Telangana, being an agriculturist and an advocate, Narsimha Rao joined politics and held some important portfolios. He was the Minister of Law and Information, 1962-64; Law and Endowments, 1964-67; Health and Medicine, 1967 and Education, 1968-71, Government of Andhra Pradesh. He was the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh from 1971-73 and General Secretary of the All India Congress Committee from 1975-76. Taking to the social media platform, PM Modi said this honour is dedicated to the former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh's incomparable contribution to the country. "It is the good fortune of our government that former Prime Minister of the country Chaudhary Charan Singh is being honoured with Bharat Ratna. This honour is dedicated to his incomparable contribution to the country. He had dedicated his entire life to the rights and welfare of farmers. Be it the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh or the Home Minister of the country, even as an MLA, he always gave impetus to nation-building. He also stood firm against the Emergency. His dedication to our farmer brothers and sisters and his commitment to democracy during the Emergency are inspiring to the entire nation," PM posted on X. Swaminathan, a prominent figure in Indian agriculture famed for his leading role in India's 'Green Revolution', will be conferred the honour posthumously, the Prime Minister said. On September 28, last year Swaminathan passed away at the age of 98 at his residence in Chennai. Taking to 'X' PM Modi, said Swaminathan's visionary leadership has not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured the nation's food security and prosperity. "It is a matter of immense joy that the Government of India is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dr MS Swaminathan, in recognition of his monumental contributions to our nation in agriculture and farmers' welfare. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture during challenging times and made outstanding efforts towards modernizing Indian agriculture. We also recognise his invaluable work as an innovator and mentor and encouraging learning and research among several students. Dr. Swaminathan's visionary leadership has not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured the nation's food security and prosperity. He was someone I knew closely and l always valued his insights and inputs," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a post on 'X'. Trained as a plant geneticist, Swaminathan's significant contributions to India's agricultural sector have earned him a reputation as the scientific leader of India's green revolution movement. His work has been instrumental in the agricultural renaissance of India. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that our government under the leadership of PM Modi ji has taken cognizance of this for the first time. We make such decisions only after rising above politics. BJP National President JP Nadda also extended his wishes and said that the work done by Chaudhary Charan Singh for farmers is unforgettable. (ANI) Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said that contribution by former Prime Ministers PV Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh as well as agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan was unprecedented but Modi government is maintianing silence on the legal status of providing minimum support price to farmers based on Swaminathan formula. He further said that "providing farmers with legal guarantee of giving minimum support price based on the Swaminathan formula will be a true tribute to former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh ji and Swaminathan ji". Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced that former PM Chaudhary Charan Singh will be conferred with India's highest civilian honour 'Bharat Ratna'. Besides Singh, ex-PM PV Narasimha Rao and agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan will also be conferred with the top honour for their contribution for nation-building, democracy. In a post on X, Congress Congress General Secretary in-charge Communications Jairam Ramesh said that due to the stubbornness of Prime Minister Modi, 700 farmers were martyred during the movement, but the government broke its promise to the farmers. "PV Narasimha Rao, Chaudhary Charan Singh and MS Swaminathan were, are and will always be the gems of India. Their contribution was unprecedented, which every Indian respects. Modi government is silent on giving the legal status of minimum support price to farmers based on the Swaminathan formula. Due to the stubbornness of Prime Minister Modi, 700 farmers were martyred during the movement, but the government broke its promise to the farmers. Even today the farmers are ready to march to Delhi, but the government is not listening," he said. "Providing justice to farmers is one of the main objectives of the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. Our demand for 'Kisan Nyay' is that farmers should be given a legal guarantee of giving minimum support price based on the Swaminathan formula. This will be a true tribute to former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh ji and Swaminathan ji," he added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced that Congress Veteran PV Narasimha Rao, former PM Chaudhary Charan Singh and economist MS Swaminathan will be conferred Bharat Ratna. NV Subhash, PV Narasimha Rao's grandson, said that he feels emotional at this point because they have been expecting that the Bharat Ratna will be delayed. Blaming the UPA government for making Narasimha Rao a scapegoat for the failures of the Congress party, Subhash said, "PM Modi has conferred PV Narasimha Rao, though he belongs to the Congress party. Now, I blame the UPA government, especially the Gandhi family, from 2004 to 2014, when the UPA government was in power in the centre, leave alone Bharat Ratna or any awards, the Gandhi family was very, very instrumental in making Narasimha Rao a scapegoat for the failures of the Congress party." "It's a matter of pride and an honour for us that at this point, at this crucial juncture where Narendra Modi has become the national leader and as the leader of the whole world, he has been constantly recognising whether it is Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, or including the Bharat Ratna, it is. I feel very, very emotional at this point because we have been expecting that the Bharat Ratna would be delayed. As a family member, I also thank the BJP Telangana for their efforts and making this a grand success and the dream come true," he added. (ANI) Calling the announcement of Bharat Ratna to be conferred upon former PM PV Narasimha Rao "fantastic", author and daughter of former President Pranab Mukherjee, Sharmistha Mukherjee on Friday said that former Prime Minister who ushered economic reforms in India was "never acknowledged by Gandhi-Nehru family." "This is fantastic news... The way PV Narasimha Rao was ignored and sidelined by his own party... He was the person who ushered economic reforms in India but this Gandhi-Nehru family never acknowledged it and didn't even allow his mortal remains to enter the AICC after his death," Mukherjee told ANI on Friday. She further said that the announcement taken by Narendra Modi's government is "absolute magnanimity and graciousness". "I think it's the absolute magnanimity and graciousness of Narendra Modi's government to confer and recognize the greatness and contribution of the Prime minister who belongs to Congress," she added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced that former PMs Chaudhary Charan Singh and PV Narasimha Rao will be conferred the Bharat Ratna. Along with them, MS Swaminathan also known as the father of the green revolution will also be awarded the country's highest civilian award. In a line-up post on X, PM Modi said that as a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao served India extensively in various capacities. "Delighted to share that our former Prime Minister, PV Narasimha Rao Garu, will be honoured with the Bharat Ratna. As a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao Garu served India extensively in various capacities. He is equally remembered for the work he did as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Union Minister, and as a Member of Parliament and Legislative Assembly for many years. His visionary leadership was instrumental in making India economically advanced, laying a solid foundation for the country's prosperity and growth," the PM said. "Narasimha Rao Garu's tenure as Prime Minister was marked by significant measures that opened India to global markets, fostering a new era of economic development. Furthermore, his contributions to India's foreign policy, language and education sectors underscore his multifaceted legacy as a leader who not only steered India through critical transformations but also enriched its cultural and intellectual heritage," he added. Born on June 28, 1921, in Karimnagar, Telangana, being an agriculturist and an advocate, Narasimha Rao joined politics and held some important portfolios. He was the Minister of Law and Information, 1962-64; Law and Endowments, 1964-67; Health and Medicine, 1967 and Education, 1968-71, Government of Andhra Pradesh. He was the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh from 1971-73 and General Secretary of the All India Congress Committee from 1975-76. (ANI) The Supreme Court dismissed on Friday a petition seeking contempt action against the Election Commission of India for not changing the forms that insist on furnishing Aadhaar numbers to enroll new voters. A bench of Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and Justices Manoj Misra and Satish Chandra Sharma declined to initiate contempt proceedings against the poll panel while taking into note the ECI's statement that it was addressing the issue. The petitioner said that despite the poll panel's assurance in 2023 that Aadhaar numbers were not obligatory for new voter registration, the forms remained unchanged. The Election Commission on September 21, 2023, had given an undertaking to the apex court that it would make appropriate clarificatory changes in Forms 6 and 6B, which sought Aadhaar details for electoral roll authentication for new voters. The Election Commission had said that the submission of Aadhaar numbers was not mandatory as per Rule 26-B of the Registration of Electors (Amendment) Rules 2022. The response of the poll panel came on a plea filed by G Niranjan, senior vice president of the Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee, who highlighted issues with Forms 6 and 6B. The Congress leader's plea had questioned the validity of the requirement of furnishing the Aadhaar details with Form 6 (application form for new voters) and Form 6B (Letter of Information of Aadhaar number for the purpose of electoral roll authentication) of the ECI forms for registration in e-roll. Form 6B facilitated voters in informing their Aadhaar numbers for electoral roll authentication. However, the Aadhaar-voter card linkage is strictly voluntary, as per the new law. (ANI) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Friday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for conferring Bharat Ratna, the country's highest civilian honour, on former PMs Chaudhary Charan Singh and PV Narasimha Rao and agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan. "I would like to thank the Prime Minister under whose leadership Bharat Ratna will be conferred to Chaudhary Charan Singh who bravely opposed the Emergency and fought for farmers...PM Modi showed generosity and awarded Bharat Ratna to Janata Dal leader too...It is PM Modi's vision...PV Narasimha Rao's life was dedicated to the Congress. He also opened new doors to development, for the Government of India...His grandson has tweeted that Congress forgot his contribution. I would like to thank PM Modi that he remembered Naraimha Rao," CM Yadav said. "A tall personality of the Green Revolution, who contributed towards the agriculture sector - Dr MS Swaminathan has been awarded the Bharat Ratna too. This is a matter of joy for the farmers and agriculture sector," he further added. Earlier in the day, PM Modi announced to confer Bharat Ratna to former PMs Chaudhary Charan Singh and PV Narasimha Rao. Along with them, MS Swaminathan, also known as the father of the green revolution, will also be awarded the country's highest civilian award. Taking to the social media platform, PM Modi said this honour is dedicated to the former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh's incomparable contribution to the country. "It is the good fortune of our government that the former Prime Minister of the country Chaudhary Charan Singh is being honoured with Bharat Ratna. This honour is dedicated to his incomparable contribution to the country. He had dedicated his entire life to the rights and welfare of farmers. Be it the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh or the Home Minister of the country, even as an MLA, he always gave impetus to nation-building. He also stood firm against the Emergency. His dedication to our farmer brothers and sisters and his commitment to democracy during the Emergency are inspiring to the entire nation," PM posted on X. Similarly, PM posted also for PV Narasimha Rao on X, "Delighted to share that our former Prime Minister, Shri PV Narasimha Rao Garu, will be honoured with the Bharat Ratna. As a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao Garu served India extensively in various capacities. He is equally remembered for the work he did as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Union Minister, and as a Member of Parliament and Legislative Assembly for many years. His visionary leadership was instrumental in making India economically advanced, laying a solid foundation for the country's prosperity and growth." Narasimha Rao Garu's tenure as Prime Minister was marked by significant measures that opened India to global markets, fostering a new era of economic development. Furthermore, his contributions to India's foreign policy, language and education sectors underscore his multifaceted legacy as a leader who not only steered India through critical transformations but also enriched its cultural and intellectual heritage, the prime minister further wrote. Expressing joy over conferring the Bharat Ratna to MS Swaminathan, the PM wrote on X, "It is a matter of immense joy that the Government of India is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dr MS Swaminathan, in recognition of his monumental contributions to our nation in agriculture and farmers' welfare. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture during challenging times and made outstanding efforts towards modernising Indian agriculture. We also recognise his invaluable work as an innovator and mentor and encouraging learning and research among several students. Swaminathan's visionary leadership has not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured the nation's food security and prosperity. He was someone I knew closely and I always valued his insights and inputs." (ANI) Sharmistha Mukherjee, daughter of former President Pranab Mukherjee on Friday said that she has been "viciously trolled by Congress supporters on social media" for her recent criticism of the party and its leadership. "Ever since the book on my father came out. I had taken a lot from his diaries and certain observations about Rahul Gandhi, he (Pranab) said that he (Rahul) is yet to mature politically and he doesn't seem to be seriously frequently absent. There is a lot of praise about Congress, but everything was ignored and Congress social media and some of the Congress leaders also had been speaking against ... Congress social media had been viciously trolling me," Mukherjee told ANI. Mukherjee had expressed concern over the state of affairs in Congress saying, she is worried about the party. "A few days back, on the sidelines of the Jaipur Literature Festival, I made a statement in an interview and I was asked about my views about the Congress. I made it very clear that I am a Congressperson, and Congress still has a lot of importance to play in national politics. But the Congress should look beyond the leadership of the Gandhi-Nehru family," she added. Sharmistha Mukherjee said that the Congress should think about whom to project as its face, as the party had lost badly in the last two Lok Sabha elections when Rahul Gandhi was the party's face. "The face of Congress in the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha elections led to a drastic defeat and again another defeat is around the corner and everyone knows about this. Does this happen in any political party or BJP? I gave my views as a free citizen of a free country and as a concerned Congress supporter but, since then all hell broke loose. All kinds of abuses had been heaped upon me. Not only that, dragging my father, the whole contention of that argument as if Congress is like a zamindari of the Gandhi-Nehru family," Mukherjee claimed. She said all kinds of abuses were heaped on her by party supporters, and even her father's name was dragged into it. "Yesterday, there has been one Congress supporter...he is followed by very senior leaders of Congress...He went berserk, saying all kinds of nasty things...nasty things having sexual connotations," she said. Mukherjee said she tried to raise the social media attacks that she has been facing with party leaders Jairam Ramesh, Supriya Shrinate, and Rahul Gandhi by tagging them, but she did not receive any response. "So, then I decided to write this open letter to Congress, to Rahul Gandhi and tweeted it...I also tagged Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Congress leaders as I am not going to take this kind of sexual harassment and abuse against me and my father," she added. Sharmishtha Mukherjee also wrote to Rahul Gandhi on Friday to flag "vicious and continuous trolling by your supporters" following the release of her new book and comments last week about his ability to lead the party into the Lok Sabha election. In a two-page letter posted on X, Mukherjee said she had been subject to trolling, "sometimes using the nastiest language", and identified one social media user in particular - "Naveen Shahi, having an X handle of @Naveen_Kr_Shahi, who is followed by several senior Congress leaders..." She further wrote that Shahi, "abused my father, Pranab Mukherjee and me in such vile language I feel nausea even to repeat it". "You are talking about nyay (a reference to Mr Gandhi's 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra'). As an ordinary citizen of India, I demand nyay from you as these vile abuses seem to have originated with someone having a formal, or informal, association with your organisation. I demand nyay as a woman, and whose father, has been subject (to) the most vile abuses having sexual connotations," she stated in a letter. "To show you are serious about nyay, please take action against this person, Naveen Shahi, (and) all the others who reacted positively to his abuses, against your social media head, and your communication head, for allowing this kind of language and abuse," Mukherjee appealed. "Show that your promise of nyay is not just an empty election slogan," she added. (ANI) Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Friday hailed the Central Government over its decision to confer the Bharat Ratna to Former Prime Ministers PV Narasimha Rao and Choudhary Charan Singh as well as Green Revolution pioneer MS Swaminathan and expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu. Addressing the press conference here on Friday, lauded the services of the former Prime Ministers- Narasimha Rao and Choudhary Charan Singh and the agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan and said that all three made their contribution to the country, to its society and to take it forward. "...I thank the PM, Central Government and President. Be it the farmers of the country, agricultural scientists or those who follow a democratic system in politics - I congratulate all of them. PV Narasimha Rao was one such PM who gave a respectable position to the then LoP Atal Bihari Vajpayee and sent him to the UN. Former PM Chaudhary Charan Singh always fought for farmers and was their messiah. Similarly, agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan made agriculture beneficial for the farmers...So, all of them made their contribution to the country, to its society and to take it forward. I thank the PM once again," he said. Former Prime Ministers PV Narasimha Rao and Choudhary Charan Singh as well as Green Revolution pioneer MS Swaminathan will be conferred the Bharat Ratna adding to the two -- socialist leader Karpoori Thakur and former Deputy Prime Minister LK Advani, already announced for this year. A Rashtrapati Bhawan communique made the announcement with Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauding PM Narasimha Rao's liberalisation policies, and late Prime Minister Charan Singh's championing of the cause of farmers and agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan's services in the field. Born on June 28, 1921, in Karimnagar, Telangana, being an agriculturist and an advocate, Narsimha Rao joined politics and held some important portfolios. He was the Minister of Law and Information, 1962-64; Law and Endowments, 1964-67; Health and Medicine, 1967 and Education, 1968-71, Government of Andhra Pradesh. He was the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh from 1971-73 and General Secretary of the All India Congress Committee from 1975-76. Swaminathan, a prominent figure in Indian agriculture famed for his leading role in India's 'Green Revolution', will be conferred the honour posthumously, the Prime Minister said. On September 28, last year Swaminathan passed away at the age of 98 at his residence in Chennai. Born on December 23, 1903 in a peasant family in Noorpur village near Hapur, Charan Singh entered politics during the national movement. He was elected to the then United Provinces Assembly from Chhaprauli in 1937 on a Congress ticket. Charan Singh was also a minister in the government led by UP's second CM Dr Sampurnanand, and the third CM Chandra Bhanu Gupta, under whom he served as Home Minister. (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Friday that former PMs Chaudhary Charan Singh and PV Narasimha Rao will be conferred the Bharat Ratna and, along with them, MS Swaminathan, also known as the father of the green revolution, will also be awarded the country's highest civilian award. In a line-up post on X, PM Modi said that, as a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao served India extensively in various capacities. "Delighted to share that our former Prime Minister, PV Narasimha Rao Garu, will be honoured with the Bharat Ratna. As a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao Garu served India extensively in various capacities. He is equally remembered for the work he did as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Union Minister, and as a Member of Parliament and Legislative Assembly for many years. His visionary leadership was instrumental in making India economically advanced, laying a solid foundation for the country's prosperity and growth," the PM said. "Narasimha Rao Garu's tenure as Prime Minister was marked by significant measures that opened India to global markets, fostering a new era of economic development. Furthermore, his contributions to India's foreign policy, language and education sectors underscore his multifaceted legacy as a leader who not only steered India through critical transformations but also enriched its cultural and intellectual heritage," he added. Taking to the social media platform, PM Modi said this honour is dedicated to the former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh's incomparable contribution to the country. "It is the good fortune of our government that former Prime Minister of the country Chaudhary Charan Singh is being honoured with Bharat Ratna. This honour is dedicated to his incomparable contribution to the country. He had dedicated his entire life to the rights and welfare of farmers. Be it as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh or the Home Minister of the country, even as an MLA, he always gave impetus to nation-building. He also stood firm against the Emergency. His dedication to our farmer brothers and sisters and his commitment to democracy during the Emergency are inspiring to the entire nation," PM posted on X. Swaminathan, a prominent figure in Indian agriculture famed for his leading role in India's 'Green Revolution', will be conferred the honour posthumously, the Prime Minister said. Taking to 'X', PM Modi said that Swaminathan's visionary leadership has not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured the nation's food security and prosperity. "It is a matter of immense joy that the Government of India is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dr MS Swaminathan in recognition of his monumental contributions to our nation's agriculture and farmers' welfare. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture during challenging times and made outstanding efforts towards modernising Indian agriculture. We also recognise his invaluable work as an innovator and mentor, encouraging learning and research among several students. Dr. Swaminathan's visionary leadership has not only transformed Indian agriculture but has also ensured the nation's food security and prosperity. He was someone I knew closely, and l always valued his insights and inputs," the Prime Minister said in a post on 'X'. Several leaders across the country extended greetings upon the grand announcement. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar said that he is honoured to inform the Rajya Sabha that Chaudhary Charan Singh, who has been a symbol of honesty and worked for the welfare of farmers, has been awarded the Bharat Ratna. "Chaudhary Charan Singh has been a symbol of honesty and has been dedicated to the farmers. Honorable Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar expressed happiness in the Rajya Sabha on the decision to honor Chaudhary Charan Singh ji with Bharat Ratna," the Vice President's office said in a post 'X'. Haryana Chief Minister and BJP leader Manohar Lal Khattar lauded the services of the former Prime Ministers Narasimha Rao and Choudhary Charan Singh and the agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan and said that all three made their contribution to the country, to society and to take it forward. "I thank the PM, Central Government, and President. Be it the farmers of the country, agricultural scientists, or those who follow a democratic system in politics - I congratulate all of them. PV Narasimha Rao was one such PM who gave a respectable position to the then-LoP Atal Bihari Vajpayee and sent him to the UN. Former PM Chaudhary Charan Singh always fought for farmers and was their messiah. Similarly, agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan made agriculture beneficial for the farmers...So, all of them made their contribution to the country, to its society and to take it forward. I thank the PM once again," he said. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath paid tribute to the three personalities and expressed happiness over this decision on his social media account, calling it 'praiseworthy'. Welcoming the announcement of conferring the Bharat Ratna upon Chaudhary Charan Singh, the Chief Minister wrote on social media platform X, "The decision to confer the 'Bharat Ratna' upon former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh, a mass leader and messiah of farmers, who dedicated his life for the uplift of villages, farmers, oppressed, and deprived, is commendable. He was a seeker of democracy in a true sense. This honour is a recognition of his unparalleled contributions to nation-building." Addressing the media, the Chief Minister expressed that conferring the Bharat Ratna upon the 'farmer's messiah', Chaudhary Charan Singh, is an honour for crores of farmers of the country. "This recognition holds particular significance for Uttar Pradesh, given Chaudhary Sahab's tenure as Chief Minister, during which the state witnessed significant progress and transformation," he said.CM Yogi further wrote about the announcement of Bharat Ratna for former PM P.V. Narasimha Rao on X; he stated that "the decision to honour former Prime Minister Narasimha Rao with 'Bharat Ratna' is highly commendable. His visionary leadership played a pivotal role in driving the country's economic development forward. His contributions to India's progress will always be remembered." While speaking to the media, CM Yogi highlighted how PV Narasimha Rao steered the country through challenging times and implemented crucial economic reforms during his tenure. Furthermore, the Chief Minister welcomed the announcement of conferring the Bharat Ratna upon the esteemed agricultural scientist and pioneer of the Green Revolution, Dr. MS Swaminathan, stating, "The decision to honour the eminent agricultural scientist and father of the Green Revolution, Dr. MS Swaminathan, with the 'Bharat Ratna' is commendable. His remarkable contributions to agriculture and farmers' welfare are widely respected. This honour is a true tribute to his unparalleled contribution in transforming agriculture." Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Friday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for conferring Bharat Ratna, the country's highest civilian honour, to three personalities. "I would like to thank the Prime Minister under whose leadership Bharat Ratna will be conferred to Chaudhary Charan Singh, who bravely opposed the emergency and fought for farmers...PM Modi showed generosity and awarded Bharat Ratna to the Janata Dal leader too. It is PM Modi's vision...PV Narasimha Rao's life was dedicated to the Congress. He also opened new doors to development for the Government of India. His grandson has tweeted that Congress forgot about his contribution. I would like to thank PM Modi for remembering NaraSimha Rao," CM Yadav said. After the announcement of Bharat Ratna to his grandfather and former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh, RLD chief Jayant Chaudhary expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, indicating an alliance with the BJP for the Lok Sabha polls. There have been speculations about Jayant Chaudhary jumping ship to the BJP, giving a jolt to the INDIA bloc. Meanwhile, Congress leader and former Finance Minister P Chidambaram said that it is of no consequence to him that the recognition has come on the 'eve of general elections'. While Chidambaram welcomed the decision of the central government, he also said, "Happy that secular, socialist leaders have been awarded Bharat Ratna It is gratifying that the BJP is discovering the contribution of the three eminent men. It is of no consequence to me that the recognition has come on the eve of general elections. Homage to the memory of the three Bharat Ratna Awardees." Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said that the contributions of former Prime Ministers PV Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh, as well as agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan, were unprecedented, but the Modi government is maintaining silence on the legal status of providing minimum support prices to farmers based on the Swaminathan formula. He further said that "Providing farmers with a legal guarantee of a minimum support price based on the Swaminathan formula will be a true tribute to former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh ji and Swaminathan ji". In a post on X, Congress General Secretary in-charge Communications Jairam Ramesh said that due to the stubbornness of Prime Minister Modi, 700 farmers were martyred during the movement, but the government broke its promise to the farmers. "PV Narasimha Rao, Chaudhary Charan Singh, and MS Swaminathan were, are, and will always be the gems of India. Their contribution was unprecedented, which every Indian respects. The Modi government is silent on giving the legal status of minimum support price to farmers based on the Swaminathan formula. Due to the stubbornness of Prime Minister Modi, 700 farmers were martyred during the movement, but the government broke its promise to the farmers. Even today, the farmers are ready to march to Delhi, but the government is not listening," he said. "Providing justice to farmers is one of the main objectives of the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. Our demand for 'Kisan Nyay' is that farmers should be given a legal guarantee of a minimum support price based on the Swaminathan formula. This will be a true tribute to former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh ji and Swaminathan ji," he added. Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Dola Sen questioned why these personalities are being honoured after 10 years. "It is a good thing that they are giving senior personalities Bharat Ratna posthumously. But why did they remember them after 10 years? This question will arise," Sen said while speaking to ANI on Friday. On Friday, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray demanded Bharat Ratna for the founder of Shiv Sena Bal Thackeray who passed away in 2012. Born on June 28, 1921, in Karimnagar, Telangana, being an agriculturist and an advocate, Narasimha Rao joined politics and held some important portfolios. He was the Minister of Law and Information, 1962-64; Law and Endowments, 1964-67; Health and Medicine, 1967 and Education, 1968-71, Government of Andhra Pradesh. He was the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh from 1971-73 and General Secretary of the All India Congress Committee from 1975-76. Chaudhary Charan Singh was born in 1902 at Noorpur in Meerut district of Uttar Pradesh, in a middle class peasant family. He graduated in science in 1923 and did his post-graduation at Agra University in 1925. Also trained in law, he set up practice in Ghaziabad. He shifted to Meerut in 1929 and later joined the Congress. He was first elected to the UP Legislative Assembly in 1937 from Chhaprauli, and represented the constituency in 1946, 1952, 1962 and 1967. He became Parliamentary Secretary in Pandit Govind Ballabh Pant's Government in 1946 and worked in various departments such as Revenue, Medical and Public Health, Justice, Information etc. In June 1951, he was appointed Cabinet Minister in the State and given charge of the Departments of Justice and Information. Later, he took over as the Minister for Revenue and Agriculture in the Cabinet of Sampurnanand in 1952. When he resigned in April 1959, he was holding charge of the Department of Revenue and Transport. Trained as a plant geneticist, Swaminathan's significant contributions to India's agricultural sector have earned him a reputation as the scientific leader of India's green revolution movement. His work has been instrumental in the agricultural renaissance of India. This prestigious award recognises his pivotal role in achieving self-reliance in agriculture and modernising it during challenging times. Since assuming office in 2014, the Modi government has announced Bharat Ratna for Lal Krishna Advani, Karpoori Thakur, Madan Mohan Malviya, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Pranab Mukherjee, Bhupen Hazarika, and Nanaji Deshmukh. (ANI) All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) Chief and Lok Sabha MP Badruddin Ajmal on Friday said that, the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) is anti-Quran, anti-Islam and his party will oppose it. "We will oppose UCC. UCC is anti-Quran, anti-Hadees, anti-Islam, anti-Religion, anti-Hindu, anti-Christian and it is against all religions, communities. We will oppose it. Whatever the government has to do they will do and whatever we have to do we will do," Badruddin Ajmal said. The AIUDF MP on Friday attended a programme held at Balapara area near Jogighopa in Bongaigaon district. Talking about the INDI alliance, the AIUDF MP said that, where is the INDI alliance now? "I told about it one year ago that this will no longer. The alliance has finished in Assam and in Delhi also. Mamata Banerjee has sidelined herself and even AAP. Soon you will see Akhilesh Yadav will also sideline from INDI alliance. There is no opposition unity in Assam, all are finished," Badruddin Ajmal said. Earlier, Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill was passed in the Uttarakhand assembly with a comfortable majority during a special session. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, during the debate on the Uniform Civil Code, said on Wednesday that the state legislature is going to create history with the passing of the Uniform Civil Code and that every citizen of the state is filled with pride. The bill contains the laws relating to marriage, divorce, succession, live-in relationships, and related matters. Among the many proposals, the Uniform Civil Code Bill makes it compulsory for live-in relationships to be registered under the law. Once the proposed UCC Bill is in place, "live-in relationships" will have to get registered under the law within 1 month from the "date of entering into the relationship." (ANI) Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray on Friday demanded Bharat Ratna for the founder of Shiv Sena Bal Thackeray who passed away in 2012. "Former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao, Chaudhary Charan Singh, and S Swaminathan, father of the Indian Green Revolution, were posthumously awarded Bharat Ratna. S Swaminathan passed away just a few months ago. A scientist who achieved so much should have received this honour during his lifetime. Anyway," Raj Thackeray posted on X. "Now that the Bharatiya Janata Party-led government at the Center has shown political generosity by honouring PV Narasimha Rao, Chaudhary Charan Singh, and Pranab Mukherjee a few years ago, they must show the same generosity and declare Balasaheb Thackeray 'Bharat Ratna' as well," he said. "A prominent cartoonist of this country and a unique leader who kindled the pride of all Hindus across the country deserves this honour. It will be a moment of jubilation for me, and others like me who have inherited Balasaheb's thoughts," he added. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut demands Bharat Ratna for Balasaheb Thackeray. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that former PMs Chaudhary Charan Singh and PV Narasimha Rao will be conferred the Bharat Ratna. Along with them, MS Swaminathan also known as the father of the green revolution will also be awarded the country's highest civilian award. In a line-up post on X, PM Modi said that as a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao served India extensively in various capacities. "Delighted to share that our former Prime Minister, PV Narasimha Rao Garu, will be honoured with the Bharat Ratna. As a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao Garu served India extensively in various capacities. He is equally remembered for the work he did as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Union Minister, and as a Member of Parliament and Legislative Assembly for many years. His visionary leadership was instrumental in making India economically advanced, laying a solid foundation for the country's prosperity and growth," the PM said. "Narasimha Rao Garu's tenure as Prime Minister was marked by significant measures that opened India to global markets, fostering a new era of economic development. Furthermore, his contributions to India's foreign policy, language and education sectors underscore his multifaceted legacy as a leader who not only steered India through critical transformations but also enriched its cultural and intellectual heritage," he added. Born on June 28, 1921, in Karimnagar, Telangana, being an agriculturist and an advocate, Narsimha Rao joined politics and held some important portfolios. He was the Minister of Law and Information, 1962-64; Law and Endowments, 1964-67; Health and Medicine, 1967 and Education, 1968-71, Government of Andhra Pradesh. He was the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh from 1971-73 and General Secretary of the All India Congress Committee from 1975-76. Taking to the social media platform, PM Modi said this honour is dedicated to the former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh's incomparable contribution to the country. "It is the good fortune of our government that former Prime Minister of the country Chaudhary Charan Singh is being honoured with Bharat Ratna. This honour is dedicated to his incomparable contribution to the country. He had dedicated his entire life to the rights and welfare of farmers. Be it the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh or the Home Minister of the country, even as an MLA, he always gave impetus to nation-building. He also stood firm against the Emergency. His dedication to our farmer brothers and sisters and his commitment to democracy during the Emergency are inspiring to the entire nation," PM posted on X. Swaminathan, a prominent figure in Indian agriculture famed for his leading role in India's 'Green Revolution', will be conferred the honour posthumously, the Prime Minister said. On September 28, last year Swaminathan passed away at the age of 98 at his residence in Chennai. (ANI) Congress leader Manish Tewari, in his reply to the debate on the 'White Paper' in the Lok Sabha on Friday, highlighted the achievements of the previous Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government and termed it as a 'political manifesto' of the ruling party. "This is a political manifesto. This is not a white paper. During the UPA regime, we worked on the basics and we strengthened the economic, social and political base of the country. The first one is the Right to Information. We gave 130 crore Indians the right to be informed. Now, I am saying this with utter regret that the same was highly misused between 2014 and 2024," Tewari said in the Lower House. The Congress MP further said that this is not a 'White Paper', this is a 'black wash'. "This is not the white paper. This is a black wash. And the excitement of the honourable Finance Minister proves this. The history of India did not begin in 2014, rather it is a decades-old one," he said. "The second one is MGNREGA. In 2005, we ensured 100-day work for people. I want to ask them why they did not increase the number of days. Rather, they kept criticising the law. The third is free education for children aged from 6 to 14 years. We reserved 25% of seats in schools for the Economic Weaker Sections, keeping aside caste and religion," Manish Tewari said. Tewari further mentioned the National Food Security Act, implemented inn 2013, and said that through the act, more than 77 pc of the population was procured with free grains. "The next one is Aadhar. By the time the UPA government was out of power, there had been more than 80 crores of Aadhar cards made. I want to ask them about their achievements in the past 10 years," Manish Tewari said. "If you consider demonetization your achievement, I leave it to your wisdom. If you see the GST act as your achievement, which destroyed small industries, I leave it to your wisdom. I hope that the Finance Minister list out five of their achievements during the past 10 years," he added. Highlighting the achievements of the Congress government, the MP further stated, "In 2004, when we assumed the reins of the government, the fiscal deficit was 5.4%. In 2007-08, it reduced to 2.8%. In 2003-04, the revenue deficit was 3.6%. In 2007-08, it reduced to 1.2%. In 2003-04, the savings-to-GDP ratio was 29.8% which stood at 34% in 2007-08." "The investment-to-GDP ratio was 28.2% in 2003-04, which increased to 35.9% in 2006-07. During the BJP government during 1998-2004, the Minimum Support Price was merely increased by Rs 30. Between 2004 and 2008, the same rose by Rs 300," he added. The Congress MP further said that in 2013-14, the saving-to-GDP ratio was 34%, which fell to 30% in 2022. "The Private Financial Consumption Expenditure stood at 60% in 2013-14 and decreased to 56.9%. The investment-to-GDP ratio, which stood at 33.8% in 2013-14, fell to 20.20% in 2023. The gross capital formation, in 2013-14, was 33.8%. It decreased to 31.4% in 2023," he added. Citing a report on the unemployment rate in the country, Manish Tiwari said, "The unemployment rate in 2013-14 was 4.9%, which stood at 8.9% in 2023." The White Paper compares the alleged economic management during 10 years of the Congress-led UPA government with what the government says are the positive outcomes of 10 years of the BJP-ruled dispensation. Amid the ongoing Budget Session of Parliament, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday presented a 'White Paper' on the state of the national economy during the UPA years in the Lok Sabha. This is the last session of the current Lok Sabha before the general elections, which are likely to be held in April-May this year. The Budget Session was scheduled to conclude on February 9 and has been extended by a day. (ANI) In his first ever interview with a Western journalist after Russia launched an armed offensive on Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed that he was ready to negotiate with Ukraine and end the war, adding that the Ukrainian side made a mistake by rejecting his negotiations. "We prepared a huge document in Istanbul that was initialled by the head of the Ukrainian delegation. He (Ukraine President) affixed his signature to some of the provisions, not to all of it. He put his signature and then he himself said we were ready to sign it and the war would have been over long ago. However, Prime Minister Johnson came, talked us out of it. And we missed that chance," Putin said. In an interview with the American news anchor Tucker Carlson released on Friday, President Putin said Ukraine made a mistake, adding. "Why do we have to bother ourselves and correct somebody else's mistakes?" "Well, you missed it. You made a mistake. Let them get back to that. That is all. Why do we have to bother ourselves and correct somebody else's mistakes? I know one can say it is our mistake. It was us who intensified the situation and decided to put an end to the war that started in 2014 in Donbass. As I have already said, by means of weapons," he added. President Putin also referred to the expansion of NATO and declaration of Ukraine as a sovereign state saying that US and NATO bases began to appear in its neighbouring region and posing a for Russia. "Let me get back to furthering history. I already told you this. We were just discussing. Let us go back to 1991, when we were promised that NATO would not expand to 2008, when the doors to NATO opened to the declaration of state sovereignty of Ukraine, declaring Ukraine a neutral state," he said. "Let us go back to the fact that NATO and US military bases started to appear on the territory of Ukraine, creating threats to us. Let us go back to coup d'eta in Ukraine in 2014. It is pointless, though, isn't it? We may go back and forth endlessly, but they stop negotiations. Is it a mistake? Yes. Correct it. We are ready," he added. Ukrainian forces have, in recent weeks, been on the defensive after Russia launched fierce assaults along the front lines. Kyiv did receive a boost to its war effort last week when the European Union approved a USD 54 billion aid package that will help avert a near-term Ukrainian financial crisis. However, US lawmakers this week were unable to forge an agreement that would provide another USD 60 billion in aid to Ukraine, assistance that Ukrainian officials and military analysts deem critical to Kyiv's war effort. Zelensky's frustration with his top general burst into the public eye in early November, after General Zaluzhny published his essay calling the war a "stalemate." In a strong rebuke, the Ukrainian president said that the comment was helpful to the Russians. (ANI) The Indian Ocean Conference is a flagship consultative forum for countries in the Indian Ocean Region, organized annually by the Ministry of External Affairs, in association with the India Foundation. The conference will be held in association with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Government of Australia, along with the S Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Singapore and the Perth-US Asia Centre in Australia. According to Ministry of External Affairs press release, "The theme of this edition of the conference is Towards a Stable and Sustainable Indian Ocean," This significant gathering, organized annually by the Ministry of External Affairs in association with the India Foundation, marks a collaborative effort with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Government of Australia, the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Singapore, and the Perth-US Asia Centre in Australia. The 7th Indian Ocean Conference brings together distinguished leaders and delegates to deliberate on crucial regional issues. The event will witness participation from delegations led by Ministers from over 22 countries and senior officials from 16 countries and 6 multilateral organizations. Furthermore, over 400 social and corporate leaders, policy practitioners, scholars, professionals, and media personnel from about 40 countries actively engaged in the Conference. Since its inception in 2016 in Singapore, the Indian Ocean Conference has been instrumental in fostering collaboration among nations and principal maritime partners in the region. Through its platform, the Conference endeavors to facilitate discourse on the prospects of regional cooperation for Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR). The 7th Indian Ocean Conference stands as a testament to the collective commitment towards enhancing stability and sustainability across the Indian Ocean Region. (ANI) Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, estranged leader of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), has emphasized that the "people of Pakistan have spoken," as results begin to come out for general elections 2024." He warned that any attempt to "manipulate their mandate will result in unsustainable chaos". "The heat of the electoral process has passed; it is time to allow the country to heal. Furthermore, Abbasi urged political leaders, including Mian Nawaz Sharif, Asif Ali Zardari, Imran Khan, Maulana Fazlur Rehman, and others- must rise above petty politics and work together to confront the immense challenges our country is facing; they need to recognise that history is not kind to selfish politicians." The remarks by Shahid Khaqan Abbasi underscore the need for collective action and cooperation among political leaders to steer Pakistan through its current challenges. Meanwhile, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf have alleged mass rigging. A video released on X from PTI official account states, "The worst rigging in history in NA 126 Lahore! Malik Tawqir Abbas Khokhar has a lead of 50 thousand votes and to defeat PTI in a clearly winnable seat, the administration actively and systematically rigged, threw out all the workers, including the PTI candidate, from the RO's office. Excluded and results withheld," Moreover, PTI alleged that there are reports of the polling agents getting abducted and forced to sign fake Form 45s. Imran Khan's party said that it has video evidence of rigging. It said that the people of Pakistan would not accept the "rigged elections." PTI posted several videos of its workers and candidates claiming that returning officers were indulging in wide scaled rigging despite independent candidates backed by PTI securing wings Additionally PTI shared visuals of a polling station and mentioned that Returning Officer's Office rangers and army are deployed outside while presiding officer form 45 is being thrown.(ANI) Local traders in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir's Gilgit city staged a protest against repeated incidents of burglary and unlawfulness in the area. The protest was held on Thursday, the day when general elections were being conducted in Pakistan. These traders complained about the unlawful activities that were happening due to security lapse and irresponsible behaviour of the security agencies. A local businessman from Gilgit City said, "We are demanding justice from the security forces or the administration. They need to present the culprit before us. If I am paying taxes regularly, then me and my property must be protected, then why are these events happening?". Describing a recent incident, when his shop was robbed, the businessman said, "I have been doing business in this area from at least last six years, and within a matter of 20 minutes the robbers were able to enter my shop and leave after looting everything." "Regarding the incident, we had contacted defence agencies, we thought that they will help us but most of them did nothing. No one who holds a significant position has met with us regarding the matter. This is not the first time any such incident is happened. At least 12 incidents like this have occurred previously," he added. Another trader from the area said, "The incident that happened with our fellow trader is not the first one, and even after 24 hours of it, no one has visited here to listen to our demands. No one has asked our friend about the losses, he has suffered". Stating the unified demand of all traders, the businessman said, "We are asked to pay money to officials under the name of protection money. Then why are we not being provided adequate security? And if they cannot protect us from these incidents, then they must compensate us for our losses. We must be assured, that we will be protected or compensated, but nothing like this has happened till now. Hence, we are forced to put our demands forward by protesting". A shoe trader from the area stated, "We are forced to pay security money on time, if we delay it by even five days, they seal our shops, and this is what happens despite our timely payments. If they cannot give us security, it's better that they stop taking money from us, we will hire private security. The administration has kept, old aged guards for our security, most of them are above 75 years of age and do not even have guns to protect us. I believe that this is a mere wastage of our time, money and resources". (ANI) Bangladesh Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud on Friday held a meeting with Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal. During the meeting, Mahmud requested India's support in ensuring supply of essential commodities and further improving trade and commerce ties with India. In a post on X, Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, "Hon'ble Foreign Minister of Bangladesh Dr. Hasan Mahmud, MP met Minister of Commerce and Industry of India Mr. Piyush Goyal. He requested India's support in ensuring supply of essential commodities and further improving trade and Commerce relations with India." Hasan Mahmud also met National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and discussed ways and means of regional cooperation for ensuring regional security and maintaining greater stability in the region and beyond. In a post on X, Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, "Hon'ble Foreign Minister Dr. Hasan Mahmud, MP met Shri. Ajit Doval, KC, National Security Adviser of India today in New Delhi. They discussed ways and means of regional cooperation for ensuring regional security and maintaining greater stability in the region and beyond." Mahmud, who is on a visit to India from February 7-9, arrived in the national capital in the early hours of Wednesday. The Bangladesh Foreign Minister thanked External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and the Indian government for inviting him. Notably, this is Mahmud's first foreign visit after assuming office. On Thursday, Hasan Mahmud lauded the robust and diversified relationship between Bangladesh and India, attributing the success to the strong leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Mahmud emphasised the substantial growth in bilateral ties, citing the collaborative efforts under the visionary leadership of PM Hasina and PM Modi. "Under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Prime Minister Modi, the relationship between Bangladesh and India has strengthened, diversified, bringing economic and social benefits for the people of our region," he said, addressing a presser on Bangladesh-India ties. Highlighting the progression of the relationship, Mahmud noted, "Our relationship has gone to new heights. The concepts of 10-15 years ago are the realities today, and political issues of the debate are the reality today."The Bangladeshi Foreign Minister expressed gratitude for India's support in the democratic process, stating, "Immediately after the elections, we were congratulated by PM of India Narendra Modi. We must remain thankful to the people of India, Indian civil society, and the government of India for standing beside us to continue the democratic process in Bangladesh and foiling the ploy to disrupt democracy. India was beside us for the continuation of democracy." On February 7, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held discussions with his Bangladesh counterpart Hasan Mahmud on wide-ranging areas of bilateral relations, including defence and economic cooperation, as well as people-to-people exchanges. EAM S Jaishankar held delegation-level talks with Mahmud and hosted a dinner in his honour on Wednesday. "During their interaction, the two Ministers reviewed the progress in wide-ranging areas of bilateral relations, including cross-border connectivity, economic and development partnership, cooperation in defence and security, power, energy, water resources and people-to-people exchanges. They also discussed areas of future engagement in line with the national development goals of the two countries, including the visions of "Viksit Bharat 2047" and "Smart Bangladesh 2041"," the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement. The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and multilateral issues of common interest. They expressed commitment to further enhance their collaboration to promote sub-regional cooperation within the framework of BIMSTEC, IORA and BBIN, the statement added. In a post shared on X, Jaishankar said that the two leaders discussed steps to forge ahead in the vibrant and people-centric partnership between New Delhi and Dhaka. "Pleased to welcome Bangladesh Foreign Minister @DrHasanMahmud62 on his first official visit to India. Discussed steps to forge ahead in our vibrant and people-centric partnership. Also exchanged views on regional and international developments," the EAM posted on X. (ANI) Sheikh Nahyan extended a warm welcome to the Iraqi Minister and discussed with her regional and international issues of mutual concern. Discussions centred on enhancing the robust strategic relations between the United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Iraq, aiming to advance shared interests. In his remarks, Sheikh Nahyan underscored the UAE's steadfast commitment to fortifying ties with nations worldwide, rooted in principles of coexistence, dialogue, peace, and human solidarity across societies and peoples. Such efforts, he stressed, are pivotal in fostering global stability and prosperity. Sheikh Nahyan highlighted the strong fraternal relations between the UAE and Iraq, reinforced by collaborative endeavours across various domains, thereby achieving prosperity and development aspirations for both nations. Minister Ivan reiterated Iraq's commitment to deepening cooperation with the UAE for mutual benefit. She lauded the UAE's initiatives in advancing peace, tolerance, and global coexistence, which serve to advance principle of human fraternity. (ANI/WAM) On the sidelines of the 7th Indian Ocean Conference, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his Australian counterpart, Senator Penny Wong, held discussions in Perth today on a spectrum of global issues, including the Indo-Pacific and the situation in West Asia. The meeting commenced with a warm exchange between EAM Jaishankar and FM Wong. Both leaders expressed delight at the opportunity to strengthen the bilateral relationship. The talks primarily centered around the comprehensive strategic partnership between India and Australia. Both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation in various domains, with a particular focus on matters related to the Indian Ocean region. EAM Jaishankar and Senator Wong discussed the Indo-Pacific region, acknowledging the strategic importance it holds. The leaders explored avenues for collaborative efforts to address shared challenges and promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. The situation in West Asia also featured prominently in the discussions. "Delighted to meet FM @SenatorWong of Australia in Perth today as we gather for the 7th Indian Ocean Conference. Good exchange on our comprehensive strategic partnership and convergence on matters related to the Indian Ocean. Also discussed the Indo-Pacific, situation in West Asia and other regional and global topics," said EAM Jaishankar in a post on X. Notably, Jaishankar will address the two-day 7th Indian Ocean Conference in Perth that gets underway today with the theme "Towards a Stable and Sustainable Indian Ocean." The Indian Ocean Conference is a flagship consultative forum for countries in the Indian Ocean Region, organised annually by the Ministry of External Affairs, in association with the India Foundation. The conference will be held in association with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Government of Australia, along with the S Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Singapore, and the Perth-US Asia Centre in Australia. According to a Ministry of External Affairs press release, "The theme of this edition of the conference is Towards a Stable and Sustainable Indian Ocean." This significant gathering, organised annually by the Ministry of External Affairs in association with the India Foundation, marks a collaborative effort with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Government of Australia, the S Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Singapore, and the Perth-US Asia Centre in Australia. The 7th Indian Ocean Conference brings together distinguished leaders and delegates to deliberate on crucial regional issues. The event will witness participation from delegations led by ministers from over 22 countries, senior officials from 16 countries, and six multilateral organisations. Furthermore, over 400 social and corporate leaders, policy practitioners, scholars, professionals, and media personnel from about 40 countries actively engaged in the Conference. Since its inception in 2016 in Singapore, the Indian Ocean Conference has been instrumental in fostering collaboration among nations and principal maritime partners in the region. Through its platform, the Conference endeavours to facilitate discourse on the prospects of regional cooperation for Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR). The 7th Indian Ocean Conference stands as a testament to the collective commitment towards enhancing stability and sustainability across the Indian Ocean Region. (ANI) The Consul General of Israel, Kobbi Shoshani, commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi's decision to confer the Bharat Ratna award upon former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao, acknowledging his pivotal role in establishing full diplomatic relations between Israel and India. Shoshani expressed the gratitude of the Israeli people, emphasising the significance of this long-awaited recognition. https://twitter.com/KobbiShoshani/status/1755854822090195441 Kobbi Shoshani posted on X, "Great move by PM. Government to declare the Bharat Ratna award to fmr Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao, who established full diplomatic relations between Israel and India. People of Israel remember him for this long overdue step." Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter to express his elation over the Government of India's decision to honor Dr MS Swaminathan with the Bharat Ratna. Modi lauded Dr Swaminathan's monumental contributions to Indian agriculture and farmers' welfare, highlighting his role in achieving agricultural self-reliance and modernization. PM Modi emphasised Swaminathan's visionary leadership, which ensured India's food security and prosperity. The Prime Minister reminisced about his close association with Swaminathan, valuing his insights and mentorship. https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1755851895409644027 Taking to 'X' PM Modi said, "It is a matter of immense joy that the Government of India is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dr MS Swaminathan, in recognition of his monumental contributions to our nation in agriculture and farmers' welfare. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture during challenging times and made outstanding efforts towards modernizing Indian agriculture. We also recognise his invaluable work as an innovator and mentor and encouraging learning and research among several students. Dr Swaminathan's visionary leadership has not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured the nation's food security and prosperity. He was someone I knew closely and l always valued his insights and inputs." The announcements underscore the profound impact of both PV Narasimha Rao and Dr MS Swaminathan on India's diplomatic relations and agricultural advancements, respectively. (ANI) BEIJING, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- As the Chinese New Year of the Dragon is approaching, foreign leaders and heads of international organizations have sent their festive blessings to Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, and the Chinese people, voicing their expectations for stronger bilateral relations and win-win cooperation with China. Noting his belief that relations between Indonesia and China will be stronger, Indonesian President Joko Widodo said the two countries will continue to build a mutually beneficial and win-win partnership. Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko said that China is playing an increasingly important role in safeguarding international fairness and justice. Expressing his expectations for bilateral cooperation to reach new heights, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said that he is looking forward to forging the next "golden 30 years" of Kazakhstan-China relations. Tajik President Emomali Rahmon said he is glad to see China making steady progress on the path of sustainable development and enhancing its international status and influence. The ancient Silk Road connecting Syria and China showcases China's splendid culture and long history, said Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, adding that Syria stands ready to jointly open up broad prospects for Syria-China cooperation for the benefit of the two peoples. Wishing the Chinese people happiness and good health, Senegalese President Macky Sall said Senegal will as always firmly adhere to the one-China principle. President of the Central African Republic Faustin-Archange Touadera said the new great achievements of Chinese-style modernization will bring new opportunities to the world and new hope to the vast number of developing countries, as well as provide strong assistance for the Central African people to realize their dreams. The Central African Republic is willing to work with China to build a community of shared future with high quality. President of Seychelles Wavel Ramkalawan said China has achieved unprecedented development achievements, noting that Seychelles highly values its traditional friendship with China, unswervingly pursues the one-China policy, and supports China's peaceful reunification. Noting the Serbia-China comprehensive strategic partnership is unbreakable, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said he believes China in the Year of the Dragon will continue to forge ahead in all respects with strength, wisdom, and innovation, and realize the Chinese Dream at an early date. Hungary will continue to actively participate in Belt and Road cooperation and the cooperation between China and Central and Eastern European countries to promote the development of Europe-China relations, said Hungarian President Katalin Novak. President of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides said Cyprus reiterates its adherence to the one-China policy and always firmly supports the development of Europe-China relations. Noting that for the first time, the Lunar New Year is part of the UN holiday calendar, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his thanks to China and the Chinese people for their unwavering support to the United Nations, to multilateralism and global progress. As results of the Pakistan's elections began trickling in on Friday, defence expert Qamar Agha said that the lead for independent candidates backed by former Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party reflected the distrust of the people towards the country's army. He noted that the Pakistani army's main supporters, like Jamaat-e-Islami and Jamaat-ul-Ilema Islam had lost support among the people. PTI has managed to win so many seats despite its leaders, including PTI founder Imran Khan, being in prison. Speaking to ANI, Agha said that despite Imran Khan being in jail, , candidates backed by his party had managed to win so many seats, as per projections reported by local media. Agha said, "It's very surprising because the impression which was coming in and the realization in the army that they have managed to suppress the Imran Khan supporters and those forces, but that has not happened. They continue to dominate Pakistan's politics, you know. Despite of arrest of all these important leaders not even important leader, but ....several of them were arrested, despite of that, you know, they managed to get so many seats, it shows, you know, there is a hatred towards the army." "And the problem with the army is not only the army is unpopular, but also its main supporters like Jamaat-e-Islami and Jamaat-ul-Ilema Islam has also lost a lot of support, following among the people because these are the organizations which provide legitimacy to the army and these are the organizations which have a very strong network among the villages and towns. They have also failed to mobilize support for their own parties and as well as for the Nawaz Sharif and others who were contesting election," he said Polling for general elections in Pakistan concluded on February 8, amid allegations of rigging and the shutdown of cellular and internet services, Pakistan-based Dawn reported. Pakistan's caretaker government had assured Pakistanis that network connectivity would not be affected during the election day. However, just before the beginning of voting on Thursday, mobile internet services were 'temporarily' shut down. Agha called Pakistan "leaderless" as country's only leader Imran Khan is in jail and stressed that it will be very difficult for the Pakistan army to manage the situation as the country is facing serious economic crisis. Qamar Agha said, "The foreign reserves is only USD 12 billion. And if the situation deteriorates further, I don't think any investment would come to Pakistan. Agriculture condition has improved a little bit, but not enough to sustain the economy." Highlighting the financial problems faced by Pakistan, Agha said, "Thirdly, the foreign remittances have also come down to the previous levels. So, serious crisis is there. The country needs a leader. Only a political party can solve these problems, otherwise Pakistan may enter into a period of bigger instability, because already the militant groups are operating in a number of areas, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa or in Balochistan, they control, and plus they are very strong in these areas." "Now let's wait and see, how the Army or this caretaker government backed by Army behaves. I hope they allow the government formation, they allow the elected people to form the government and withdraw, I mean at least for some time they should give a chance to these people," he said Amid reports of clashes and delays in general elections, Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf claimed that they were leading in 150 seats. A video shared on social media platform X from Imran khan's account of PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar he claims that PTI is leading at 150 votes and definitely, they will form a government in all over Pakistan whether it is Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Citing data received in Form 45s, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) said that candidates nominated by the party have won polls. PTI has claimed that it has won over 150 seats and will form government in centre, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with a clear majority. \ In a post shared on X, PTI stated, "Thread highlighting the National Assembly constituencies won by PTI's nominated candidates, as per the data received in Form 45s. Form 45s are the primary source of election results at the lowest level. The votes for each candidate are tabulated at each polling station on the Form 45. Copies of these forms have been collected by PTI candidates' polling agents, which show them winning by a large majority." "According to independent reports, PTI has won well over 150 National Assembly seats & is in a solid position to form government in Federal, Punjab & KP, with a clear majority. However, manipulation of the results in the late hours of the night is an utter disgrace & a brazen theft of the nation's mandate. The people of Pakistan vehemently reject the rigged results. The world is watching," it added. The party shared statistics regarding number of votes secured by the candidates at various national assembly constituencies. https://twitter.com/PTIofficial/status/1755793831159554274 Earlier in the day, PTI leader Barrister Gohar Ali claimed that PTI is leading at 150 seats and will form government in Pakistan. While sharing the video of Gohar Ali Khan, the post on Imran Khan's official X handle reads, "InshAllah PTI will form governments in Punjab, KP and Federal. Any attempt to change the results overnight will be thwarted and not accepted at any cost by the people of Pakistan or the local and international observers and media - Chairman PTI Barrister Gohar" Earlier, PTI alleged that the mandate of people of Pakistan is being stolen. Imran Khan's party said that every independent result showed PTI winning by a landslide despite pre-poll rigging and oppression. PTI stated that the votes of each candidate are tabulated at each polling station on the Form 45. Imran Khan's party mentioned that copies of these forms have been collected by PTI candidate's polling agents, which show them winning by large majority. However, returning officers are now manipulating the results using Form 47. (ANI) Israeli Ambassador to India, Naor Gilon, congratulated former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao on being conferred with India's highest civilian honour, 'Bharat Ratna' on Friday. He recalled that under Rao's leadership in 1992, India and Israel had established diplomatic relations. "Congratulations to Shri PV Narasimha Rao on this recognition. In 1992, during his tenure as PM, diplomatic relations between India and Israel were established. 32 years later, these relationships flourish like very few do," Gilon posted on X. https://x.com/NaorGilon/status/1755883012188000611?s=20 Israeli Consul General to Midwest India, Kobbi Shoshani also commended the move, acknowledging his pivotal role in establishing full diplomatic relations between Israel and India. "Great move by the PM. Government to declare the Bharat Ratna award to fmr Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao, who established full diplomatic relations between Israel and India. People of Israel remember him for this long overdue step," Shoshani stated. Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his elation on former PM Narsimha Rao being honoured with Bharat Ratna acknowledging his extensive work in various capacities, including the economic reforms and contributions in foreign policy. "Delighted to share that our former Prime Minister, Shri PV Narasimha Rao Garu, will be honoured with the Bharat Ratna. As a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao Garu served India extensively in various capacities. He is equally remembered for the work he did as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Union Minister, and as a Member of Parliament and Legislative Assembly for many years," PM Modi posted on X. He added, "His visionary leadership was instrumental in making India economically advanced, laying a solid foundation for the country's prosperity and growth. Narasimha Rao Garu's tenure as Prime Minister was marked by significant measures that opened India to global markets, fostering a new era of economic development. Furthermore, his contributions to India's foreign policy, language and education sectors underscore his multifaceted legacy as a leader who not only steered India through critical transformations but also enriched its cultural and intellectual heritage." Meanwhile, other than Rao, the Modi government has also conferred Bharat Ratna awards for former PM Chaudhary Charan Singh and pioneer of the Green Revolution, MS Swaminathan. Swaminathan, a prominent figure in Indian agriculture famed for his leading role in India's 'Green Revolution', will be conferred the honour posthumously, the Prime Minister said. Trained as a plant geneticist, Swaminathan's significant contributions to India's agricultural sector have earned him a reputation as the scientific leader of India's green revolution movement. His work has been instrumental in the agricultural renaissance of India. Chaudhary Charan Singh served as the Prime Minister of the country from July 1979 to January 1980. He was also a big farmer leader who worked for the rights of the farmers. (ANI) Russian President Vladimir Putin accused the United States and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) of the explosions of the Nord Stream pipelines, which cut off a major route for Russian gas exports to Europe, fueling geopolitical tensions. He said that such a blast can only be done by someone who is "interested" and who is "capable" of pulling off an attack like this. In an interview with ex-Fox News journalist, Tucker Carlson, Putin said, "I won't get into details, but people always say in such cases: 'Look for someone who is interested'. But in this case, we should not only look for someone who is interested but also for someone who has capabilities." Nord Stream gas pipelines were attacked in the Baltic Sea in September 2022, cutting off a major route for Russian gas exports to Europe and fuelling geopolitical tensions. "Because there may be many people interested, but not all of them are capable of sinking to the bottom of the Baltic Sea and carrying out this explosion. These two components should be connected: who is interested and who is capable of doing it," he said, as quoted by the transcript by the Russian Presidency. On being asked why Germany -- which sustained huge economic impact from the incident, is not responding much to it, the Russian President said that today's German leadership is guided by "collective West" rather than its own 'national interests.' He also suggested that Russia is ready to supply gas to Europe through the Nord Stream-2, but Germany has not opened it. "After all, it is not only about Nord Stream-1, which was blown up, and Nord Stream-2, which was damaged, but one pipe is safe and sound, and gas can be supplied to Europe through it, but Germany does not open it. We are ready, please," Putin said. On September 27, 2022, Nord Stream AG reported "unprecedented damage" that took place on three lines of Nord Stream and Nord Stream 2 gas pipelines. Swedish seismologists registered two explosions that occurred on September 26 near the pipeline route, TASS reported. Notably, Russia has accused the US of staging the explosions, which they have described as a "terror attack." However, the US has denied any involvement. In March 2023, German media claimed that a pro-Ukraine group had sabotaged the pipelines using a vessel that set out from the port of Rostock. Ukraine rejected suggestions it might have ordered the attack, and German officials voiced caution over the report, Al Jazeera reported. Recently, Sweden said it had closed an investigation into the 2022 explosions that crippled Russia's Nord Stream pipelines. The Swedish authorities, who have previously said that they suspect an unknown state actor of responsibility, said that they are halting the probe after verifying that the case does not fall under its jurisdiction, as reported by Al Jazeera. (ANI) In a testament to collaborative global efforts on climate action, US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti expressed pride in joining hands with India, saying that he is very "proud" of not telling India what to do but listening to New Delhi's leadership in this regard. Garcetti was delivering an address at the 2024 World Sustainable Development Summit. Commending India's leadership, he emphasised the significance of local commitments, citing the impactful LiFE initiative. Garcetti highlighted the global commitment made by the hundred largest cities, responsible for one-fifth of the world's economy. "Similarly, the LiFE initiative of this country. Initially, I think there were some skeptics in the international community saying, we need big commitments on things like power grids. We need to see national commitments. And I argued, within the United States government, the LiFE initiative was exactly what the world needed. The hundred largest cities in the world," he said. Notably, Indian cities pledged to achieve net-zero emissions, underscoring the role of local communities in combating climate change. "To give you an idea, we're responsible for about one fifth of the entire global economy. These cities, including Indian cities, made a commitment to net zero," the US envoy added. The ambassador stressed the importance of working at the grassroots level, praising India's rapid implementation of renewable energy. He acknowledged the need for national leaders to set ambitious goals but emphasised that real change occurs at the local level. "To look at the ways that we're managing forests together and biodiversity, where you're pushing us and challenging us to do more at the same time, we're bringing resources to help you reach the goals that you have here," the US Ambassador said, adding, "And I learn from India as much as I bring some of our experiences when asked to Indians." Garcetti outlined collaborative initiatives between the US and India, focusing on shared goals such as zero-carbon railway transportation. He underscored the importance of supporting India's efforts through funds, technical assistance, and resources for sustainable practices. "The United States and India have never been closer with our hearts. I think we've never been closer in our thinking. But now the question is, can we put our feet together and walk together towards where we need to be?" Garcetti said. Expressing mutual learning, Garcetti acknowledged the close ties between the US and India, emphasizing the need to walk together towards a sustainable future. He referenced the recent G20 leadership as a model for overcoming conflicts and addressing the impact of climate change on vulnerable communities. "The G20 leadership, which was magnificent here, showed that countries, even in moments of conflict, can see past the conflict of today to solve the problems of tomorrow. And if we do that and look at the impact, how women and children are 14 times more likely to be killed by climate change and to be affected by that, the vulnerable communities that live because of their poverty, right on the cutting edge, those are the folks that we must centre, not just in our actions, but in the leadership that they have as well," Garcetti added. As the ambassador concluded, he left with inspiration and energy, highlighting the shared responsibility of nations to centre vulnerable communities in climate action and leadership. "So I leave here inspired today. I leave here energised," said the UN envoy. The collaborative spirit between the US and India in addressing global challenges was evident throughout Garcetti's remarks. (ANI) Braving the winter chill, the devotees, observing the month-long arduous 'Swasthani Brata' (fast), performed rituals at the embankments of the Bagmati River as part of their first 'Pardes Yatra' on Friday. The chants of 'Madhav Narayan' echoed on the embankments of the Bagmati River from early Friday morning as women donned in maroon red outfits stood in line to perform rituals. The devotees travelled around 13.5 kilometres on foot to visit Pashupatinath Temple as a part of their first "Pardes Yatra" which is a part of a ritual performed while undergoing a month-long fast. As per tradition, women undertaking the month-long 'Swasthani Brata' travel to temples of Lord Narayan and Lord Shiva in and around Kathmandu. "The Madhav Narayan Brata, which is observed for a month, is one of the most arduous fasts. For a month, the devotees only had one meal a day. The devotees start the Pardes Yatra on the 15th day of the fast. We have reached Pashupatinath from Salinadi on foot without wearing slippers or shoes," Jag Nath Shrestha, member of the Madhav Narayan Brata Managing Committee, told ANI. The devotees holding fast reached bare-footed at Bajrayogini, Pashupatinath, Shesha Narayan of Pharping, Panauti and Changunarayan to perform rituals. As per the age-old tradition, the devotees who perform the fast for a month don't eat foods cooked by others, which also exclude salt and other spices. They only eat rice, beaten rice, sugar, ghee, sugar candy, molasses, spinach from patan, and peas, among other items considered sacred. The annual ritual of Swasthani Brata Katha starts on the full moon day of Poush (the ninth month of the Lunar Calendar) and starts with the recitation of religious sermons. The book of Swasthani mainly tells the story of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, which is described in 'Skandha Purana' belonging to the Hindu Secondary Scripture. It also has directives that describe the do's and don'ts to be followed while undertaking a month-long fast that have been followed in the long run. Goddess Swasthani is worshipped throughout the month. Priests and devotees perform fast, those not taking fast recite tales of Swosthani Devi, Lord Shiva and other gods. "The Bramha, Vishnu and Maheshwar- the creator, saviour, and destroyer of the universe--one of them is Narayan (Vishnu); in the earlier ages, Goddess Parvati had undertaken Swasthani Brata with wish to get married to Lord Shiva. Lord Madhav Narayan had taught her all the rituals to be followed and performed at the time of Swasthani Brata which she followed, as per the legends. Lord Madhav Narayan narrated the details about Swasthani Brata to Parvati, helping her to get Lord Shiva as her husband," Raju Bhai Manandhar, former chairman of the Madhav Narayan Brata Managing Committee told ANI. The Hindus in Nepal read one chapter a day out of 31 chaptered religious books, which comprise stories including tales about the creation of the world, Hindu deities, and demons. The scripture also has a section that states about the start of the fast, which brought in prosperity and happiness, and mentions 'Salinadi', which is also the reason for people to flock to a particular place to take part in the fast. A religious sermon recited for a month also mentions that Goddess Parbati prayed to Goddess Swasthani to become Lord Shiva's wife, because of which unmarried females also take on the fast praying to get a suitable groom. The married one, on the other hand, prays for the well-being and progress of their spouse and children. A significant fact about the ritual is that in case of illness or injury during the fast, the devotees are not subjected to medical assistance, and it should be cured by natural processes, considered one of the toughest rituals. It is believed that this hard penance by the devotees results in the fulfilment of their wishes and desires. The month-long ritual ends with immersing all the offerings made to the goddess into the river. (ANI) Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, will be on an official visit to India from February 11 to 15, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a press release. This will be the first official visit by Kao to India since assuming charge in January 2023. During the visit, Secretary-General of ASEAN is scheduled to have meetings with the External Affairs Minister and other dignitaries in Delhi. He will deliver the Sapru House Lecture organised by the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) on the theme "The ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in the Evolving Regional Architecture," MEA also said. At the invitation of the Government of India, Secretary-General of ASEAN will visit the Mahabodhi Temple Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, in Gaya. He is scheduled to deliver an address on "The Future of ASEAN: ASEAN's Relevance and Resilience in the Evolving Strategic Environment" at the Nalanda University in Rajgir. Students from ASEAN Member States pursue higher education at the University under ASEAN-India cooperation projects. The Nalanda University also leads the ASEAN-India Network of Universities (AINU), it added. Engagement with ASEAN is an important pillar of India's Act East Policy, which has entered into its 10th year in 2024, as well as its vision for the wider Indo-Pacific. In 2022, the ASEAN-India relations were elevated to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. India firmly supports ASEAN centrality and the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP). India also supports the priorities set by Lao PDR in its ASEAN Chairmanship for the year 2024 under the theme "ASEAN: Enhancing Conectivity and Resilience," the MEA release concluded. (ANI) A Chinese company in the southern city of Shenzhen has allegedly been assisting at least 123 websites in pushing the "pro-Beijing" agenda, Radio Free Asia reported, citing a recent research. As per the report, the websites were operating in China but posing as local media outlets in 30 countries across Europe, Asia and Latin America to disseminate disinformation. The RFA report quoted a recent study conducted by the University of Toronto, which claimed that Shenzhen Haimaiyunxiang Media Co. (Haimai), was involved in pushing China-supporting propaganda in the fields of business and politics. The firm was also found responsible for vilifying reports from the meeting between former United States House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen in 2022. The relations between China and the US were highly sensitive at that time. The researchers of the University of Toronto used a technique named Domain Name System to track down suspected websites under a campaign named Paperwall intended to gather information on Haimai, the Chinese firm, which has a commercial registration in Shenzhen city, the RFA report stated. The report further quoted Victor Ho, the former editor-in-chief of the British Columbia version of Sing Tao Daily. According to Ho, "Beijing has a long history of fighting public opinion wars overseas. There are many seemingly neutral Chinese-language media in Canada that promote Beijing's 'big foreign propaganda,' but it is difficult for ordinary people to discern". Ho added that pro-Chinese Communist Party (CCP) media houses like Ming Pao, Sing Tao Daily, Today Commercial News, Chinese Canadian Times, Dawa News, Health Times, and New Star Times have been operating in Canada, seemingly having no relation to CCP. "These are all localised names in Canada. There are 20 to 30 CCP's foreign propaganda media outlets in Canada, shaping the impressions of the Chinese community and many overseas Chinese, or Chinese Canadians, of the CCP," said Ho. Further, he also states that "if you are new here and undiscerning, you could be watching the CCP's 'big foreign propaganda' all the time, but thinking you are watching Canadian Chinese media. This is quite scary and shocking." According to the RFA, the Paperwall also found that around 100 domains were backlinked by the Times Newswire. And the fake news network found in the Paperwall is huge; 32 of these target the readers of South Korea and Japan, 11 target the British media, and 30 cover the readers of the rest of the world. Most of the "fake news" comes from Times Newswire, which RFA noticed dispatches press releases and news reports written in multiple languages, such as Korean, Japanese, and French, covering politics, economy, culture, current affairs, and sports. The report also stated that Roma Journal, a website that targets Italians, is not legally registered as a news outlet in Italy. It often publishes information about U.S. President Joe Biden's foreign visits. The same website has also reposted a large number of news stories from Chinese mouthpiece CGTN before and after Pelosi's visit to Taiwan in August 2022. Several of these articles have demeaning headlines like "Pelosi is shortsighted and selfish, endangering Sino-US relations." Taking the example of another website, the RFA report claimed that Conan Finance News, targeting British audiences, reprinted articles about Hong Kong, including those promoting "one country, two systems." (ANI) The programme was organised at the Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service January 22 to February 9. The three-week fellowship programme featured talks, presentations and simulation exercises by leading experts on a range of subjects, such as the global security environment, weapons of mass destruction, certain conventional weapons, space security, security of cyberspace, export controls, and emerging technologies, the MEA said in the release. It included field visits to the facilities of the Department of Atomic Energy of India and Indian Space Research Organization so that fellows could have exposure to India's civil nuclear and civil space programmes. The participants also visited other institutions such as Election Commission of India, National Institute of Solar Energy, the International Solar Alliance Secretariat, and Information Fusion Centre - Indian Ocean Region. According to the MEA, the fellowship programme aims at equipping participants with knowledge and perspectives on issues related to contemporary disarmament, non-proliferation, arms control and international security affairs, and familiarizing them with India and aspects of India's foreign policy. It also fulfils the mandate of UN General Assembly resolution "United Nations study on disarmament and non-proliferation education". Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra addressed the young diplomats from 24 countries from across the world who participated in the fellowship programme at the valedictory ceremony held on Friday. UN Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Ms. Izumi Nakamitsu delivered inaugural remarks via a recorded video message during inauguration ceremony on January 22. On February 5, the participants called on External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, the statement added. Meanwhile, the first, second and third editions of the programme were held in January 2019, 2020 and 2023 respectively. (ANI) The Iranian ambassador to India, Iraj Elahi, on Friday said the cooperation and collaboration between the two countries in the development of the Chabahar port and the International North-South Transport Corridor is a testament to the growing bilateral ties. Speaking to ANI at the Iranian embassy in the national capital on Friday, the envoy said, "Economic relations between Iran and India are developing across sectors. The cooperation between the two countries in the development of Chabahar port, as the golden gateway connecting nations along the Indian Ocean to Central Asia and the Caucasus, and the cooperation in the International North-South Transport Corridor are important examples of the growing cooperation and bilateral ties." The Chabahar port in Iran is seen as a key component of India's connectivity initiatives, holding immense significance as it provides a viable and shorter route for trade between India, Iran, Afghanistan, and Central Asia. INSTC is a multi-modal transportation route linking the Indian Ocean and the Persian Gulf to the Caspian Sea via Iran and onward to northern Europe via St Petersburg in Russia. The INSTC envisages the movement of goods from Mumbai (India) to Shahid Beheshti Port - Chabahar (Iran) by sea, from Chabahar to Bandar-e- Anzali (an Iranian port on the Caspian Sea) by road, and then from Bandar-e- Anzali to Astrakhan (a Caspian port in the Russian Federation) by ship across the Caspian Sea, and after that from Astrakhan to other regions of the Russian Federation and further into Europe by Russian railways. Addressing the gathering on the occasion of the 45th anniversary of the Islamic Republic of Iran in New Delhi on Friday, the envoy added, "The relations between Iran and India have a long history. Beautiful Persian poems are still read in every corner of India. India, like a kind nanny, has preserved the Persian language in its heart throughout the centuries, and the Persian poets of India have made a great contribution to the elevation of our poetry. The valuable action of the esteemed Indian government in recognising the Persian language as one of the nine official languages in the educational policy of India deserves appreciation and respect." He also underscored the importance of India-Iran coordination at multiple regional and global levels, saying that the interaction between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in South Africa opened doors for a new phase or chapter in cooperation between the two nations. "Iran and India have important coordination and cooperation at the regional and international levels. The presence of Iran and India in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS shows the cooperation of the two countries at the international level," the envoy stated. "The recent cordial meeting of His Excellency President Raisi and the Honorable Prime Minister Modi on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in South Africa, has paved way for the new phase in the good cooperation between Iran and India at mutual and international level," he added. At the event, the Iranian envoy also raised the challenge of 'terrorism' faced by Tehran and underlined its war against the menace in past decades. "In the last four decades, Iran's people and government have stood against many fierce storms such as imposed war, terror, economic sanctions or economic terrorism and maximum pressure, and are moving towards the heights of victory," the Iranian ambassador said. "The Islamic Republic as a victim of terrorism has had a non-stop fight against terrorism. In this field, Iran has prevented ISIS from dominating the West Asian region. The Islamic Republic of Iran is proud to have lost one of its national heroes in the fight against terrorism, and the world will never forget the assassination of General Soleimani by terrorist forces in Iraq," the envoy added. Union Minister of State for Culture and Tourism, Shripad Y. Naik, also presided over the event held at the Iranian embassy in the national capital. Taking to his official handle on X, the Union Minister posted, "Delighted to meet and extend my warm wishes to Hon'ble Ambassador of Islamic Republic of Iran to India His Excellency Dr. Iraj Elahi and Mrs. Elahi on the occasion of 45th Anniversary of Islamic Revolution." (ANI) UNITED NATIONS, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- UN humanitarians on Friday highlighted a harrowing statistic: 700,000 children in Sudan are now facing the most severe form of malnutrition due to the ongoing conflict. James Elder, a spokesperson for the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF), described the situation in Sudan as "the world's largest displacement of children," with 4 million children displaced. "That's 13,000 children every single day for 300 days," Elder said. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs recently called for 2.7 billion U.S. dollars to address the urgent needs within Sudan, but the appeal remains drastically underfunded at just four percent. This comes amid a brutal conflict that began last April, with rival factions showing no signs of compliance with peace efforts. Elder's recent visit to Sudan's Darfur revealed a distressing reality: out of over 700,000 children suffering from severe acute malnutrition, UNICEF may only be able to treat less than half without increased support and access. Looking west from Teaneck to Hackensack, the outer lanes of the East Anderson Street/Cedar Lane bridge were closed to traffic in 2012, and a 15-ton weight limiit was imposed. New Jersey has nearly 7,000 bridges across thousands of miles of local, county and state roads. And nearly 20% of those bridges are in need of repair. Hundreds are rated in poor condition by the U.S. Department of Transportation, and hundreds more as "structurally deficient." In Bergen County, nearly 1 out of 4 bridges rates as in need of repair among the highest rates in New Jersey. To see a detailed listing of all the bridges in New Jersey and those in your neighborhood visit NorthJersey's DataDive page of bridge inspections. The bridge inspection data has complete listings, a clickable map and ratings and locations for each bridge in New Jersey. Bergen County: Replacement of bridge connecting Hackensack and Teaneck advances. What you should know Portal Bridge: Lawsuit by fired head of NJ Transit's Portal Bridge project warns about key design flaws And check out our complete data sets, which include everything from mortgage rates to weather data to community crime statistics to hospital statistics and much, much more. There is easy access to more than 50 data sets at data.northjersey.com Just be careful, it's addictive. This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Hundreds of New Jersey bridges rated 'structurally deficient' by DOT A shed fire in Mesa early Friday morning resulted in one man being killed and another injured, according to the Maricopa County Sheriff's Department. It was 12.33 a.m. when Maricopa County deputies responded to a fire in the area of E. 1st Avenue and S. 82nd Way in Mesa. Deputies said the small shed fire, located at the rear of a residence, was likely caused by the space heaters plugged into the house via extension cord. According to MCSO, one adult male was pulled from the shed by a resident and flown to a hospital where he was pronounced dead. The resident, who pulled out the man from the shed, sustained non-life-threatening burns. Rural Metro Fire responded and extinguished the fire before it spread to the main house. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: One dead and one injured after a shed fire in Mesa LIMESTONE, Tenn. (WJHL) One person is dead after a fire in Limestone Thursday afternoon, firefighters report. The Tusculum Volunteer Fire Department told News Channel 11 that it was called to assist at a fire in the 2000 block of Milburnton Road Thursday. Deputy killed in Blount County shooting, search for suspect continues The department was called at 4:27 p.m. alongside the Limestone and Newmansville volunteer fire departments. According to the Tusculum VFD, one fatality was confirmed at the fire. The Limestone VFD told News Channel 11 that the Greene County Sheriffs Department and Tennessee Bureau of Investigation are the leading agencies in the fatal fire investigation. News Channel 11 has reached out to the Greene County Sheriffs Department for more details. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather. A manhunt is underway in the mountains of southeast Tennessee for a man accused of killing one deputy and wounding another during a routine traffic stop, state officials say. Its not yet clear why 42-year-old Kenneth Wayne DeHart Jr. fired shots at the two Blount County deputies, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation said in a news release. Investigators say it happened around 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 8, when DeHart was stopped on a rural road in Maryville, about 40 miles west of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Deputy Greg McCowan was killed and Deputy Shelby Eggers was shot in the leg, the sheriffs office said. Dehart is considered armed and dangerous, the Blount County Sheriffs Office said in a release. If you see Dehart, do not approach him. Call 865-981-7125 immediately if you encounter him or know of his whereabouts. State investigators have not revealed why he was stopped, but said DeHart would not cooperate with deputies and refused to get out of the vehicle. A taser was deployed with no effect. At some point during the encounter, DeHart produced a gun and fired shots, striking both deputies, TBI officials said. Deputy Greg McCowan (left) was killed and Deputy Shelby Eggers was shot in the leg, the sheriffs office said. At least one of the deputies returned fire. ... DeHart drove away from the scene. Both deputies were taken to a hospital, where Deputy McCowan was pronounced dead, officials said. Deputy Eggers was treated and released, and she is recovering at home, the sheriffs office said. Eggers is the officer who returned fire, but investigators have not said if the shots struck the suspect. Warrants have been issued charging DeHart with one count of first degree murder, one count of attempted first degree murder, and one count of felon in possession of a weapon, the TBI said. Deputy McCowan, 43, was a father of two who began working full-time for the sheriffs office in 2020, after serving as a reserve officer, officials said. He was awarded a lifesaving commendation in 2021 for saving the life of a man trapped in a burning vehicle, the sheriffs office said. Deputy Eggers, 22, joined the sheriffs office in 2019 as a corrections deputy before transferring to patrol duty in 2022, officials said. Watch as police dodge gunfire during dramatic shootout in Nashville liquor store Watch as chair flies from pickup, directly into windshield of a Vermont State Trooper Deputy kills man trying to burn possessed 9-year-old boy in fire, Florida cops say VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) One person has been injured following what police said is a serious crash between a motorcycle and a vehicle on Salem Road in Virginia Beach Thursday, police said. The call for the crash came in around 5:27 p.m. for a crash involving a motorcycle and vehicle in the 1900 block of Salem Road. Police said a motorcyclist was taken to the hospital in critical condition. Virginia Beach Polices Traffic Safety Unit is on the scene investigating. Police said the 1900 block of Salem Road between Salem Lakes Boulevard, just past Salem Elementary School, and Rock Lake Loop, is currently closed. Police ask drivers to follow detours that have been put in place. Stay with WAVY.com for updates. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Breaking News For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com. Black History Months observance was founded on the need to acknowledge the turmoil Black Americans have had to face throughout history, but also the necessity to celebrate Black accomplishments. Learning about these famous Black history speeches is a great way to do both of these things. These speeches show the range of what Black Americans have had to advocate for, from the abolition of slavery, to the Civil Rights Movement to modern conversations about race and injustice. The words of these speakers empowered the Black community and impacted it in ways that are still relevant today. Here are 10 Black history speeches that changed history to acknowledge and celebrate this Black History Month. The Ballot or the Bullet (1964) Malcolm X The Ballot or the Bullet is a powerful and influential speech delivered by Malcolm X on April 12, 1964, in Detroit. In this address, Malcolm X emphasized the urgency for political empowerment and self-defense within the African American community. He argued that if the government failed to address the concerns of black citizens and provide them with their constitutional rights, they should use their voting power strategically or, if necessary, resort to more forceful means to secure their rights. Malcolm X called for unity among African Americans and rejected the notion of relying solely on nonviolent resistance, advocating for a more assertive stance in the face of systemic racism and inequality. The speech highlighted Malcolm Xs evolving ideology, moving away from the teachings of the Nation of Islam towards a broader, more inclusive perspective on the struggle for civil rights and justice. Aint I a Woman? (1851) Sojourner Truth Aint I a Woman? is a historic speech delivered by Sojourner Truth at the Womens Convention in Akron, Ohio, in 1851. Born into slavery as Isabella Baumfree, Truth emerged as a passionate abolitionist and womens rights advocate. Truth challenged prevailing stereotypes and gender-based discrimination faced by African American women in her poignant address. She eloquently questioned the prevailing notions of femininity and argued for the equal rights of black women in the suffrage and abolitionist movements. Though there are variations in the accounts of her exact words, the essence of Truths speech remains a powerful testament to her resilience, determination, and commitment to dismantling the intersecting barriers of racism and sexism. Aint I a Woman? continues to resonate as a pivotal moment in the history of both the abolitionist and womens rights movements. What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July? (1852) Frederick Douglass What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July? is one of the many powerful and searing Black history speeches delivered by Frederick Douglass. It was delivered on July 5, 1852, in Rochester, New York. Douglass was a former enslaved person turned prominent abolitionist and used this occasion to address the glaring hypocrisy of celebrating American independence while millions of African Americans remained enslaved. In his speech, Douglass articulated the stark contrast between the ideals of freedom and equality espoused in the Declaration of Independence and the harsh reality of slavery. He questioned the moral integrity of a nation that denied basic rights to a significant portion of its population and highlighted the stark irony of celebrating freedom while denying it to others. Douglass speech remains a poignant critique of the contradictions embedded in American society during the era of slavery and stands as a timeless condemnation of systemic injustice. A More Perfect Union (2008) Barack Obama A More Perfect Union is a landmark speech delivered by Barack Obama on March 18, 2008, during his presidential campaign. Obama sought to confront issues of race in America head-on while addressing the nation in the wake of controversy surrounding his association with Reverend Jeremiah Wright. In the speech, Obama acknowledged the complexities of race relations, emphasizing the need for an honest and open dialogue about the nations racial history. He spoke about his own biracial background and the evolving American identity, urging the country to move beyond racial divisions and work towards a more inclusive and united future. The speech is notable for its eloquence, thoughtfulness, and Obamas commitment to fostering understanding and unity in a diverse and complex nation. It played a significant role in shaping the narrative of his campaign and addressing the broader issues of race in American society. Black Power (1966) Stokely Carmichael Black Power is a pivotal speech delivered by Stokely Carmichael (later Kwame Ture) during the March Against Fear in Mississippi on June 16, 1966. It is one of the Black history speeches that played such a pivotal role in mobilizing Black Americans, but many do not know much about it today. As a leader of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), Carmichael popularized the term Black Power, encapsulating a call for empowerment, self-determination, and pride within the African American community. In his speech, Carmichael emphasized the need for black people to define and assert their political and social agenda, urging them to move away from reliance on white allies and institutions. Black Power marked a shift in the civil rights movement, emphasizing a more assertive and militant approach to address systemic racism. The term became a rallying cry for a generation of activists advocating for black identity, pride, and autonomy in the face of ongoing racial injustice and inequality. I Have a Dream (1963) Martin Luther King Jr. I Have a Dream is one of the most iconic and influential speeches in American history, not just amongst Black history speeches. It was delivered by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom on August 28, 1963. In this powerful address, King passionately articulated his dream of a nation where individuals are judged by their character rather than the color of their skin. He called for an end to racial segregation and discrimination, advocating for civil and economic rights for African Americans. Kings eloquent and inspiring words resonated far beyond the crowds gathered on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, contributing to the momentum that led to the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The I Have a Dream speech remains a symbol of the ongoing struggle for racial equality and justice, embodying Kings vision of a more inclusive and harmonious society. James Baldwins 1965 Debate With William F. Buckley Jr. The debate between James Baldwin and William F. Buckley Jr. took place on February 18, 1965, at the Cambridge University Union in England. The discussion centered on the motion The American Dream is at the Expense of the American Negro. Baldwin passionately argued that systemic racism in the United States fundamentally contradicted the ideals of the American Dream. He eloquently articulated the harsh realities faced by African Americans, emphasizing the deep-rooted racial inequalities that persisted despite the nations espoused principles of freedom and equality. Baldwins argument challenged the audience to confront the pervasive racism ingrained in American society. On the other hand, Buckley defended the motion, contending that progress was being made and that individual responsibility played a significant role. The debate remains a powerful moment in the history of civil rights discourse, showcasing Baldwins insightful critique of racial injustice in America. Fannie Lou Hamers Testimony at the 1964 Democratic National Convention Fannie Lou Hamer delivered a historic and powerful testimony at the 1964 Democratic National Convention. Hamer, a sharecropper and civil rights activist from Mississippi, passionately recounted the brutal and unjust treatment she endured for attempting to register to vote. Speaking before the credentials committee, she vividly described the physical abuse she suffered in jail, including beatings that left her with permanent injuries. Hamers testimony was a poignant and unfiltered indictment of the systemic racism and violence faced by African Americans seeking to exercise their right to vote in the deeply segregated South. Her fearless and compelling words, ending with her famous declaration, Im sick and tired of being sick and tired, resonated deeply and brought national attention to the plight of Black voters in the face of disenfranchisement. Hamers courageous testimony, significantly contributed to the eventual passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, a landmark achievement in the fight for civil rights. W.E.B. Dubois 1905 Niagara Movement Speech W.E.B. Du Bois delivered a pivotal speech at the founding meeting of the Niagara Movement on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls in 1905. The Niagara Movement was a civil rights group that sought to address racial inequality and advocate for civil rights for African Americans. In his speech, Du Bois emphasized the urgency of addressing systemic racism, discrimination, and disenfranchisement faced by African Americans. He called for an end to racial segregation, the protection of civil rights, and the promotion of higher education for African Americans. Du Boiss Niagara Movement speech laid the foundation for his lifelong dedication to civil rights activism and marked a significant moment in the early 20th-century struggle for racial equality in the United States. Making the Struggle Everyday (1974) Ella Baker In her influential speech at the 1974n Puerto Rico solidarity rally, civil rights icon Ella Baker outlined her philosophy that the struggle for racial justice and liberation had to be an ongoing, grassroots effort embedded in daily life, not just periodic moments of activism. Baker called on listeners to make the fight against oppression and inequality a consistent part of their communities through civic engagement, leadership development, cooperative economics, and sustained political participation. She argued real change comes from the bottom up through ordinary people taking an active role, not just relying on leaders or national movements. The speech reflected her pragmatic vision centered on community empowerment and self-determination beyond just legislative change. Baker emphasized building a group-centered movement through organizing, education and mobilization at the neighborhood level to make the struggle an everyday practice, not just a periodic campaign. Her speech provided a powerful blueprint for institutionalizing the fight for justice and freedom through consistent local action. JUBA, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- At least 75 people, including three children, have been killed and 2,200 displaced in two weeks of violence between communities in the Abyei Special Administrative Area, the global charity Save the Children said on Friday. The charity said the actual number of people killed in the fighting between armed youths of Ngok Dinka of Abyei and the Twic community of neighboring Warrap State could be much higher. Abyei is a contested area between South Sudan and Sudan, which has been mired in conflict since April 15. "It's been a very difficult time for children and their families in Abyei. No child should ever be attacked or killed. For those that have survived but have been wounded, they will live with the physical and psychological scars for the rest of their lives," Jib Pornpun Rabiltossaporn, Save the Children country director in South Sudan, said in a statement issued in Juba, the capital of South Sudan. The two communities have been contesting for years the ownership of a strip of land in the Aneet border area, which separates the two communities. Save the Children said the violence has not only hindered the aid agency's ability to reach those in need, but has also created an environment of fear and uncertainty, making it even more difficult for families to access essential services. The charity said its teams are seeing a dangerous spike in violence, which is leading to widespread displacement and compromising the safety and well-being of innocent children and women. Rabiltossaporn said the volatile situation requires collective action to ensure the safety and protection of the impacted communities, especially the vulnerable children who suffer the brunt of the violence and displacement. "We appeal to the government, the United Nations Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA), and all key actors to act promptly and collectively to protect civilians and restore peace," she added. The first major attack took place on Jan. 27 and led to 52 deaths and dozens of injuries, in addition to kidnappings, the burning of villages and theft of cattle, according to a United Nations report. The latest attack, on Feb. 4, killed at least 23 civilians, including three children and four women, and injured 18 others, including two children, according to the government of Abyei Special Administrative Area and UN reports. According to Save the Children, the sporadic attacks have since slowed down or cut off affected communities from humanitarian aid, with incidents of looting of health and nutrition supplies reported, including lifesaving nutrition supplies for children in Rumamer health facility. The Supreme Court heard arguments in a lawsuit that could see former President Donald Trump removed from the ballot in Colorado Thursday. The case centers around the ability of the state to enforce the disqualification clause of the 14th Amendment. Colorado District Court Judge Sarah B. Wallace found that Trump had committed insurrection, but the provision in the 14th Amendment that would disqualify a candidate did not apply to presidents. The Colorado State Supreme Court later reversed the ruling and banned Trump from the ballot, leading to the appeal to the Supreme Court heard. "The Court further concludes that the events on and around January 6, 2021, easily satisfy this definition of 'insurrection,'" Judge Wallace wrote in her November decision. Section three of the post-Civil War amendment says, "No person shall...hold any office, civil or military, under the United States, or under any State, who, having previously taken an oath, as a member of Congress, or as an officer of the United States...to support the Constitution of the United States, shall have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same, or given aid or comfort to the enemies thereof. The case could serve as precedent for similar rulings, including the decision of the Maine Secretary of State that Trump is ineligible to run. The justices could rule quickly to avoid conflict on Super Tuesday, March 5, when Colorado, Maine and 13 other states hold primaries, the Associated Press reported. Here are some of the key exchanges from Thursday's oral arguments: Disqualification, remedy causes contention "We don't know whether President Trump will be excused before he's sworn in, if he wins the election, on January 20th, 2025. And a -- and a court that is saying that President Trump has to show now, today, that he would qualify under Section 3 is accelerating the deadline that the Constitution provides for him to obtain a waiver from Congress," Jonathan Mitchell, lawyer for Donald Trump Should the court disqualify Trump from holding office, a vote by two thirds of both chambers of Congress would be able to override the decision. The text of the amendment does not establish a deadline for Congress to take such a vote. "This disability (disqualification) can be removed, right, under Section 3. That's what's different about it. So, thoughts on that?" Justice Neil Gorsuch "Well, the fact that there's an extraordinary provision for removing the disability does not negate the fact that the disability exists today and it's existed since January 6th, 2021 when President Trump engaged in insurrection against the Constitution," Jason Murray, lawyer for the respondents "The Constitution doesnt require that he (Trump) be given another chance," Murray Constitutional, judicial history haunt proceedings "Is there anything in the original drafting, history, discussion that you think illuminates why that distinction (between office and officer) would carry such profound weight?" Justice Gorsuch. "Not of which we're aware," Mitchell One of the arguments representatives for Trump have made is that the President holds an office but is not an officer of the United States and therefore is not covered under the 14th Amendment. Justice Gorsuch has branded himself as "textualist," a judicial philosophy that interprets law using the plain meaning of the statue without considering history or intent. "The whole point of the 14th Amendment was to restrict state power, right? ... So wouldn't that be the last place that you'd look for authorization for the states, including Confederate states, to enforce -- implicitly authorized to enforce the presidential election process? That -- that seems to be a position that is at -- at war with the whole thrust of the 14th Amendment," Chief Justice Roberts The Chief Justice has previously devolved election authority to the states in overturning portions of the Voting Rights Act in Shelby Counter v. Holder in 2013. The decision ended the "pre-clearance" provision of the act, which required nine states to submit to the federal government any laws that changed election procedures before implementing them. North Carolina implemented voter identification laws in the wake of the decision. National effects rooted in state decision "Federalism creates redundancy. And here the fact that states have the ability to enforce it as well, absent federal preemption, provides an additional layer of safeguards around what really Section 3 supports," Murray A question that appeared multiple times in the arguments was the ability for states to enforce the disqualification provision of the 14th Amendment. "The fact that someone's complaining not about the bottom-line conclusion but about the very processes that were used in the state would seem to -- and that that would be permitted, seems to underscore the concerns that have been raised about state power," Justice Brett Kavanaugh "If we affirmed and we said he was ineligible to be president, yes, maybe some states would say well, you know, we're going to keep him on the ballot anyway but, I mean, really it's going to have, as Justice Kagan said, the effect of Colorado deciding," Justice Amy Coney Barrett "Colorado is not deciding who other states get to vote for president. It's deciding how to assign its own electors under its Article II power. And the Constitution grants them that broad power," Murray The Constitution grants states the ability to appoint electors to the Electoral Congress to select the President. "I guess in my view of the history, I'm wondering, really, whether presidential elections were such a circumstance, that the Framers actually envisioned states enforcing Section 3 with respect to presidential elections as opposed to senatorial elections, representatives, the sort of more local concerns," Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Quotes from Trump Supreme Court arguments on Colorado ballot issue Attorneys general from 10 states and Washington, D.C., are calling on the Biden administration to issue emergency protections for workers from extreme heat this summer. In a petition on Friday, the Democratic top prosecutors, led by New Yorks Letitia James, said the Biden administration should issue a temporary emergency heat standard for this summer to protect workers. In 2021, the Biden administration said it planned to develop rules aimed at protecting workers from heat exposure. However, actually developing and finalizing regulations could take years. In light of that, the attorneys general are calling for an interim rule to apply this summer. We urge [the Occupational Safety and Health Administration] to issue an emergency temporary standard for occupational heat exposure that applies when the heat index reaches 80Fa temperature associated with increased rates of serious heat-related illnessesand requires employers to take the necessary and readily implementable steps to prevent harm to their workers, such as providing water, rest breaks, and access to cool or shaded areas, they wrote. In addition, they wrote to the White House asking for support. Currently, there are no national rules protecting workers from heat exposure. Between 1979 and 2018, more than 11,000 Americans have died from heat-related conditions. Last year was the hottest year on record, and large parts of the U.S. saw intense heat waves, leaving outdoor workers vulnerable. The White House did not respond to The Hills request for comment. A spokesperson for the Labor Department, which houses OSHA, did not address The Hills questions about whether it would consider an interim standard. Instead, the spokesperson directed The Hill to information about its ongoing efforts. The attorneys general who petitioned the administration are from New York, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A Russian and Ukrainian prisoner swap resulted in the return of 100 Ukrainians from captivity Thursday, authorities said. The Russian Ministry of Defense said in a Telegram post Thursday that in exchange for 100 Russian service members, 100 Ukrainian prisoners of war were given to the Ukrainian military, according to a translation. Ukraines Ministry of Defense celebrated the return of the prisoners of war in a post on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. 100 Ukrainian warriors returned home from the [R]ussian captivity, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense wrote. Most of them are the defenders of Mariupol. We will return all of our people. Russian President Vladimir Putin said in an interview that aired Thursday with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson that he is open to negotiations on the war with Ukraine with the U.S. He said Russia has never refused negotiations and would be receptive to efforts by the U.S. for discussions on a peace agreement in Ukraine. We hear all the time, Is Russia ready? Yes, Putin said. We have not refused. It was them who publicly refused. The Russian president also reiterated a claim that his country was ready to sign an agreement with Ukraine shortly after the current conflict began. Putin said that Great Britains prime minister at the time, Boris Johnson, stopped the deal because of Ukraines success, which Johnson has denied. On the same day of the prisoner exchange, the Senate voted to advance a $95 billion foreign aid package that has $60 billion for support in the war in Ukraine in the wake of a notable bipartisan deal failing a day before that combined foreign aid and border security reforms. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Flirting turned potentially deadly at one Florida middle school, when a jealous girl hatched a plot to kidnap and kill her romantic rival, according to investigators. The suspect who is only 11 years old faces felony charges after a search revealed a 5-inch knife, the Charlotte County Sheriffs Office said in a news release. She was arrested Wednesday, Feb. 7, at Murdock Middle School in Port Charlotte, the sheriffs office said. Port Charlotte is about 100 miles southeast of Tampa. A School Resource Officer ... was alerted to a notebook a student left behind in class, which detailed a plan to harm another student, the sheriffs office said. As the deputy was questioning (the owner), she confessed to the notebook being hers and stated that she planned on killing another female student due to that female flirting with (her) boyfriend. A 5-inch steak knife was discovered when the officer searched the girls backpack, officials said. Charlotte County criminal investigators were then summoned to the school, and they learned the revenge plot had been shared with at least one other student on Jan. 29, officials said. A witness provided a sworn recorded statement, saying (the suspect) showed her the notes saying how she wanted to kidnap somebody and kill them and their family, the sheriffs office said. The witness stated (the intended victim) is flirting with everybodys boyfriend and is causing a lot of trouble in school. The suspect confronted the intended victim at the school on Feb. 2, and a witness reported having to physically restrain the suspect, officials said. Deputies arrested the girl and charged her with felony counts of bringing a weapon on school grounds and written threat to kill, officials said. Murdock Middle School has about 650 students in grades six through eight, according to USNews.com. Students carpooled to showdown where teen was repeatedly stabbed, Florida cops say 11-year-old girl presses box cutter to boys neck and whispers threat, Florida cops say Agitated mom tries to run down high school staffer in parking lot, Florida cops say A 13-year-old found a 5-million-year-old fossil, and now there's a new species of walrus named in his honor A 13-year-old fossil enthusiast found a walrus skull in a boulder in northern California in 2011. Eleven years later, a paleontologist has named the formerly unknown extinct species after him. The toothless walrus probably lived near temperate bays in California about 5 million years ago. In 2011, a 13-year-old fossil hunter on a beach near bluffs in Santa Cruz, California, happened across the find of a lifetime: the complete skull of an unknown 5-million-year-old walrus species encased in a giant boulder. His discovery has now led to the identification of that ancient species of walrus, which scientists named after the 13-year-old in his honor in a recent paper published in the peer-reviewed Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology. Finding fossils An enthusiast since the age of 9, Forrest Sheperd would go hunting two to three times a week, finding shells, shark teeth, and whale bones. "I was just absolutely on fire and ecstatic about finding fossils," he told Business Insider. "I had been fossil hunting enough to know what fossilized bone looks like," he said. So when he came across the boulder, he recognized from the shape that it was probably encasing a skull, and he, with the help of a friend, hauled the 70-pound rock back to his parents' car. Sheperd, who's in medical school now, credits the paleontologist at the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History with identifying many of his fossil finds and connecting him with Robert Boessenecker, an expert in marine mammal fossils. The paper's coauthors Robert Boessenecker and Sarah Boessenecker holding the Valenictus walrus skull. Robert Boessenecker Eleven years after Sheperd found it, Boessenecker named the newly identified walrus species Valenictus sheperdi after Sheperd's last name. "This fossil was found by a 13-year-old kid," Boessenecker told BI. "I think that's really remarkable." Ironically, Boessenecker used to comb the same beach looking for fossils. "I've been going there since I was 15, so Forrest got luckier than I did," he said. Toothless not tuskless Between graduate school and earning his doctorate, Boessenecker took more than a decade to free the skull, but as he finally started to remove the hard sandstone surrounding it, he realized there were no sockets in its jaw for teeth, just a place for its upper tusks. The lack of teeth was a clear sign the skull didn't belong to modern walruses since modern species have teeth, which they use to communicate by clacking together but not to eat with. Boessenecker determined the skull belonged to the genus Valenictus the closest extinct relative to living walruses. But because the new skull was older and larger than other Valenictus species and had some physiological differences, Boessenecker suspected it was an unknown species. He promised to name it after Sheperd. The smooth surface is part of the walrus skull emerging from the rock. Forrest Sheperd "That's obviously such a huge accomplishment for any fossil collector to be able to not just find a cool fossil, but to be able to find a fossil that really contributes to our understanding in a big new way," Sheperd said. The walruses of California Millions of years ago, more than a dozen walrus species roamed the planet. Today, only two subspecies are left, "which tells us something weird has happened with walruses in the past couple million years," Boessenecker said. Ancient walruses used to live in California, which probably had a similar climate 5 million years ago to what it has now, Boessenecker said. That's wildly different from the frigid Arctic temperatures today's walruses prefer. Between 2 million and 7 million years ago, something happened to the west coast that caused a lot of species to disappear. Boessenecker created a piece of artwork showing Valenictus swimming in a kelp forest. Robert Boessenecker "There's all sorts of weirdos that you find in rocks" in California from that time, Boessenecker said. In addition to walruses, there were odd-looking marine mammals, unusual extinct birds, and strange fish. "We had giant bony-toothed birds flying around up until about 2 million years ago or so," he said. A lot of Valenictus' bizarre companions started disappearing around the same time. "So what happened on the west coast?" Boessenecker posed. "Why did we have this incredible species or faunal turnover?" He said scientists thought it had to do with a dramatic change in the geography of the California coastline that occurred about 3 or 4 million years ago. Before the change, the Los Angeles Basin and southern San Joaquin Valley were shallow marine bays that made perfect foraging grounds for walruses and other marine mammals. But changes in climate and the emergence of the Sierra Mountains both contributed to the loss of those marine bays and the walruses' food supply, Boessenecker said. "I like to focus on these sorts of young fossils because it gives us a little bit of perspective on what we still have on the California coastline," Boessenecker said. "It's an incredible ecosystem, and it's changed quite a bit in the past few million years." Read the original article on Business Insider Sixteen people from across the state were arrested for child sex crime charges after an online sting, authorities said on Friday. Some of them were arrested in Gaston County. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation reported the arrests as part of Operation Winter Guardian, which took place in January. Authorities say investigators would work undercover and participate in chats with people seeking to meet juveniles for sexual activity. After that, the SBI said some of those individuals then traveled to a location in Gaston County to meet the person they believed to be a child to engage in those sex acts. ALSO READ: Fugitive Finders: US Marshals team with local officers to catch wanted criminals in the Carolinas Investigators were also able to find distribution points where child sexual exploitation images were shared, and they got search warrants for those locations. In total, 16 people were charged, including the following. Gabriel John Yager of Apex - 2nd degree sexual exploitation of a minor (seven counts) Hunter Ray Fesperman of Hertford - 2nd degree sexual exploitation of a minor (four counts) Larry Ray Haskins of Lenoir -2nd degree sexual exploitation of a minor (one count) Jubonte Stevenson of New Bern -1st degree statutory sex offense (one count) Jonathan Paul Swiney of Asheboro - 2nd degree child sexual exploitation of a minor (one count) Scott Thomas Wallace of Wilmington - 3rd degree sexual exploitation of a minor (three counts) Johnathan Cody McCall of Swansboro -2nd degree sexual exploitation of a minor (10 counts), 3rd degree sexual exploitation of a minor (10 counts) Jamie Tucker of Louisburg - 2nd degree sexual exploitation of a minor (six counts), Secret peeping (two counts), Manufacture schedule VI (one count), PWISD marijuana (one count), Maintaining/Vehicle/Dwelling/Place (one count) Nicholas Tyler Banks of Burnsville - 2nd degree sexual exploitation of a minor (one count), Failure to inform of new online identifier (one count), 3rd degree sexual exploitation of a minor (one count) Darryl Edwin Foley of Garner - 1st degree sexual exploitation of a minor (7 counts), 2nd degree sexual exploitation of a minor (10 counts), Statutory sex offense with a child by an adult (3 counts), 1st degree statutory rape (2 counts) Carmen Delia Foley of Garner - 1st degree sexual exploitation of a minor (13 counts), Statutory sexual offense with a child by an adult (2 counts), Aid and Abetting 1st degree statutory rape (2 counts) Lance Skipper of Zebulon - 2nd degree sexual exploitation of a minor (one count) Barry Glenn Swinson of Randleman - Indecent liberties (one count), Solicitation of a child by computer for sex act (one count) David Anthony Roux of Charlotte - Indecent liberties (one count) Neal David Wilfong of Cleveland - Indecent liberties (two counts) Zachary Dean Williams of Wadesboro - Indecent liberties (one count), Solicitation of a child by computer for sex act (one count) Police said at least five children were identified and safeguarded from ongoing sexual abuse. The SBI said the task force utilized the help of numerous police departments, in addition to the U.S. Marshals Service to make the arrests. (WATCH: Burke County man charged with three counts of exploitation of a minor, deputies say) KYLE, Texas (KXAN) An 18-year-old was arrested earlier this week and faces four felony charges following a string of robberies in Kyle and Hays County. Rudy Joe Luis Romero of Kyle was arrested and charged with two counts of aggravated robbery, robbery, engaging in organized criminal activity and evading arrest, according to a press release from the City of Kyle. An attorney was not listed online for Romero at the time of publishing this article, but if that information becomes available, KXAN will reach out for a statement. According to the release, the robberies happened between Thursday, January 25 and Saturday, February 3 at the below locations and dates: Rudy Joe Luis Romero, 18 (Photo: Kyle Police Department) 7-11 on Hill Street/I-35 Northbound Frontage Rd. on 1/25/24 7-11 on South Loop 4/I-35 Southbound Frontage Rd. on 2/1/24 Speed-In Shell Station on Creekside Trl. at FM 150 on 2/3/24 During the first two, Romero reportedly entered the stores and demanded money while holding his hand under his jacket, as though to indicate he had a gun, according to the release. In the third one, he displayed what appeared to be a firearm in his waistband, the release said. Police said similar robberies were committed in San Marcos, Buda, and Hays County over the last two weeks. Kyle Police detectives, with the help of other agencies, identified Romero as the suspect and obtained a warrant of arrest. Hays County Sheriffs Deputies arrested Romero following a short foot pursuit on Monday, February 5. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. Left: Restored images of papyrus scrolls from Mount Vesuvius. Over 2,000 characters composing 15 lines of an ancient Greek scroll is now legible thanks to machine learning. Right: The scroll read by the winners. Damaged ancient papyrus scrolls dating back to the 1st century CE are finally being deciphered by the Vesuvius Challenge contest winners using computer vision and AI machine learning programs. The scrolls were carbonized during the eruption of Italys Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE and have been all-but-inaccessible using normal restoration methods, as they have been reduced to a fragile, charred log. Three winnersLuke Farritor (US), Youssef Nader (Egypt), and Julian Schilliger (Switzerland)will split the $700,000 grand prize after deciphering roughly 2,000 characters making up 15 columns of never-before-seen Greek texts. [Related: AI revealed the colorful first word of an ancient scroll torched by Mount Vesuvius .] In October 2023, Farritor, a 21-year-old Nebraska native and former SpaceX intern won the challenges First Word contest after developing a machine learning model to parse out the first few characters and form the word cor porphyras, ancient Greek for purple. He then teamed up with Nader and Schlinder to tackle the remaining fragments using their own innovative AI programs. The newly revealed text is an ancient philosophers meditation on lifes pleasuresand a dig on people who don't appreciate them. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3xKZaJRjnDs A 1,700 year journey The scrolls once resided within a villa library believed to belong to Julius Caesars father-in-law, south of Pompeii in the town of Herculaneum . Upon its eruption, Mount Vesuvius historic volcanic blast near-instantly torched the library before subsequently burying it in ash and pumice. The carbonized scrolls remained lost for centuries until rediscovered by a farmer in 1752. Over the next few decades, a Vatican scholar utilized an original, ingenious weighted string method to carefully unroll much of the collection. Even then, the monks process produced thousands of small, crumbled fragments which he then needed to laboriously piece back together. Fast forward to 2019, and around 270 Villa of the Papyri scrolls still remained inaccessiblea lingering mystery prompting a team at the University of Kentucky to 3D scan the archive and launch the Vesuvius Challenge in 2023. After releasing open-source software alongside thousands of 3D X-ray scans made from three papyrus fragments and two scrolls, challenge sponsors offered over $1 million in various prizes to help develop new, high-tech methods for accessing the unknown contents. What do the scrolls say? According to a February 5 post on X from competition sponsor Nat Friedman, the first scrolls final 15 columns were likely penned by Epicurean philosopher Philodemus, and discuss music, food, and how to enjoy lifes pleasures. According to the Vesuvius Challenge announcement, two columns of the scroll, for example, center on whether or not the amount of available food influences the level of pleasure diners will feel from their meals. In this case, the scrolls author argues it doesnt: [A]s too in the case of food, we do not right away believe things that are scarce to be absolutely more pleasant than those which are abundant. In the closing section, he throws shade at unnamed ideological adversariesperhaps the stoics?who 'have nothing to say about pleasure, either in general or in particular,'" Friedman also said on X. Although much more remains to be uncovered, challenge organizers have previously hypothesized the scrolls could include long-lost works including the poems of Sappho. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zpflT8XuSyg But despite the grand prize announcement, the Vesuvius Challenge is far from finishedthe newly translated text makes up just 5 percent of a single scroll, after all. In the same X announcement , Friedman revealed the competitions next phase: a new, $100,000 prize to the first team to retrieve at least 90 percent of the four currently scanned scrolls. At this point, learning the ancient scrolls contents is more a when than an if for researchers. Once thats done, well, huge sections of the Villa of the Papyri remain unexcavated. And within those ruins? According to experts, potentially thousands more scrolls await eager eyes. Pakistani President Arif Alvi speaks during an interview with Chinese media in Islamabad, Pakistan, Feb. 7, 2024. Pakistan-China friendship is rooted in the people, and the spirit of peace and cooperation demonstrated by the iron-clad bilateral relations provides a stabilizing force in the changing world, Pakistani President Arif Alvi has said.(Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal) by Deng Kaiyin, Jiang Chao, Wang Huan ISLAMABAD, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Pakistan-China friendship is rooted in the people, and the spirit of peace and cooperation demonstrated by the iron-clad bilateral relations provides a stabilizing force in the changing world, Pakistani President Arif Alvi has said. The two countries always support each other's efforts to safeguard their respective core interests, and their deepening bond serves as a good example for the world, said the president in a recent interview with Chinese media. "If there are issues, we solve the problems, we help each other in times of crisis." Noting that the world is in flux, the president said that many areas are still troubled by conflicts and some Western countries attempt to deter the growth of emerging economies. The new world order should be a multipolar world, allowing people to progress and allow people to continue with trade, he said, adding that the world order should "not base on the victors' rules, but base on the fact that it should be an emancipation of people." The president said that both Pakistan and China love peace, highlighting the initiatives put forward by China such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) that focuses on people's development so that people can live a stable and healthy life. "This (BRI) has shown to the world a way of cooperating and a way of mutual developments, whereby movements of goods and people is made easier," said the president, adding that the initiative benefits international trade and sustainable development. Regarding the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Alvi said that the infrastructure, human resources, energy, and industry sectors in the country are being improved with the help of the CPEC. He also expressed appreciation that the loans from China did not come with strings. As the construction of the CPEC has now entered a new phase of high-quality development, the president envisioned enhanced cooperation with China in the sectors of information technology (IT), agriculture, vehicle manufacturing, etc. China's agricultural yield per hectare is much higher than in many parts of the world, and Pakistan boasts abundant agricultural resources, so "our agriculture cooperation would yield tremendous results," said the president, noting that China is the frontrunner in areas including Artificial intelligence and supercomputers, and Pakistan wants to be a part of that. Concluding the interview, Alvi, on behalf of the Pakistani people and government, extended greetings and best wishes to the Chinese people for the upcoming Chinese New Year. "Happy Spring Festival, and an auspicious Year of the Dragon," he said in Chinese. Two Georgia men have been arrested for their participation in a phone scam where they asked victims to send them money, or face arrest, the Auburn Police Department said. On Tuesday, an arrest warrant was issued for 33-year-old Kieth Alexander McClymont of Atlanta and 29-year-old Davida Samantha Perry of Cedartown for theft of property in the first degree. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Auburn Police say the arrests are due to them receiving a theft report surrounding a phone scam in December. The victim said they received multiple phone calls from McClymont and Perry who falsely identified themselves as law enforcement. Both suspects told the victim they needed to make payments to clear fake court penalties to avoid arrest. Police identified the men as those involved in the phone scam and warrants for theft of property in the first degree in January. McClymont was arrested by the City of South Fulton Police Department last week. He waived extradition and was taken to the Auburn Police Department on Tuesday. TRENDING STORIES: Perry was arrested by the Polk County Police Department on Tuesday and waived extradition and was taken by the Auburn Police Department. Both men were taken to the Lee County Jail and held on $5,000 bond. Police caution the public to be aware of anyone who calls and demands payment, specifically using an electronic method to solicit funds from you. If you receive a call like this, law enforcement officials say you should terminate the call. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: TULARE, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) Two 17-year-olds have been arrested on suspicion of a connection with a shooting that appeared to be gang-related, the Tulare Police Department said. Police say on Feb. 8, detectives, SWAT, and crisis negotiators served multiple search warrants in connection with the shooting that occurred on Jan. 25 at approximately 4:10 p.m. An 18-year-old male was injured. The Tulare Police Department The Tulare Police Department According to police, through the course of the investigation, detectives were able to identify the suspects. Police say they arrested on Thursday two 17-year-olds in connection to the shooting. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Detective Barrios at 559-685-2300 extension 2152. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47. Police in the Bahamas this week arrested two people on sexual assault charges after two American woman on a Carnival cruise said they were drugged and raped while in the Caribbean country. The report comes on the heels of the United States Department of State issuing a travel advisory for the Bahamas a popular destinations for cruises as well as for spring-break vacations. "Quick response," by officers in Grand Bahama, the northernmost island of the Bahamas in the Atlantic Ocean, resulted in the arrest of a 54-year-old man of Eight Mile Rock and a 40-year-old man of South Bahamia after they allegedly sexually assaulted two women on Sunday, the Royal Bahamas Police Force reported. According to a preliminary report from the department, the attacks took place shortly after noon on Sunday while two females visited a beach in Central Grand Bahama. The women, two mothers from Kentucky who identified themselves as Amber Shearer and Dongayla Dobson, told News Nation's Chris Cuomo they were "relaxing on a Grand Bahama beach" when a resort employee allegedly gave them drinks spiked with a cocktail of drugs including benzodiazepines. "They were given drinks - a coconut and pineapple drink spiked with a series of drug and narcotics," the women's Miami-based attorney, Nicholas Gerson told USA TODAY Thursday. "They became inebriated and were both taken away and raped." At the time of the reported attacks, Gerson said his clients, both 31, were unaware of the recent travel warning and "not aware of any warnings given by Carnival." Lucayan National Park on Grand Bahama Island. Two Kentucky women said they were raped on February 4, 2024 after their drinks were spiked while on the island during a cruise. Police in the county said they arrested two men in connection to the assault and the case remains under investiation. When reached by phone on Thursday, Dobson's husband told USA TODAY he and his wife live in Lancaster, Kentucky, a small city about 35-miles south of Lexington. He also said his wife and Shearer are childhood friends who both grew up in Danville, Kentucky, a town about 10 miles west of Lancaster and deferred additional questions to his wife's lawyer. 'A two-for-one drink deal' Gerson said on the day of the alleged assaults, his clients went on an excursion called "Pirate's Cove Beach Getaway" and were taken to the island by a shuttle arranged by Carnival. There, the attorney said, a resort staffer offered them a two-for-one drink deal, and after taking just a few sips, they realized something was off with the beverage. Dobson told Cuomo the friends went to look for seashells for their children with "a male resort employee" and the next thing she remembered "was waking up while she was being assaulted by a uniformed male resort staffer." I came to in the process of my rape, Dobson told Cuomo. I want people to be safe... Twos not enough." She said they "thought as best friends that we could protect each other and to be safe." That wasn't enough, she said. Shortly after the reported rapes, both women told Cuomo, local authorities and other staff at the resort were able to identify the men accused of sexually assaulting the women through video surveillance. The women took toxicology tests when they returned to the ship and reported the rapes, Gerson said Toxicology results, he said, found little if no alcohol in his clients' systems, but the women tested positive for benzos and other drugs including cocaine. Rape settlement: Teen worker raped by McDonald's manager receives $4.4 million 'Support for the two guests' Carnival released the following statement to USA TODAY on Thursday: "While ashore in Freeport, Bahamas on an independent shore excursion, two guests on Carnival Elation reported to Bahamian police that they were sexually assaulted at a local beach. Our onboard Care Team provided support for the two guests as they sailed back to Jacksonville. Bahamian police are investigating the matter and Carnival is providing our full cooperation." As of Thursdays police had not released the names of the men they arrested. The department's daily crime report log posted online showed the case remained open and under investigation. A spokesperson for Pirate's Cove shared a statement with USA TODAY late Thursday afternoon that said managers took swift action as soon as the incident was reported and the business is cooperating with investigators. "We regret that our guests experienced this incident, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to aid police in the collection of evidence in response to these allegations, including providing Police access to video from the sixteen cameras around the beach facility where the assault of the two guests allegedly occurred," the statement read. "Accusations of any kind are always thoroughly investigated by Pirates Cove management and, when warranted, the organization calls in local authorities. Level 2 travel advisory Last month, the USDS issued a Level 2 travel advisory for the Bahamas. The advisory, posted on Jan. 26, warns travelers to "exercise increased caution" because of crime on the islands of New Providence including Grand Bahama, Nassau, and Freeport. A security alert posted by the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas on Jan. 24 also reported 18 murders have taken place in Nassau since the start of the year. The alert warns that murders have occurred at all hours including in broad daylight on the streets. "Retaliatory gang violence has been the primary motive in 2024 murders," the embassy wrote. Gerson said Carnival did not warn his clients about the travel advisory. "The cruise line has a legal obligation to warn their passengers about danger they may know about and it applies to places passengers are visiting or expected to visit," Gerson said. Contributing: Gabe Hauari 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: Amber Shearer, Dongayla Dobson said they were raped in the Bahamas LUFKIN, Texas (KETK) The Lufkin Police Department headed a multiagency string operation on Thursday at a massage parlor for suspected prostitution leading to the arrest of an unidentified woman. Corrigan-Camden ISD teacher arrested for solicitation of minor According to the City of Lufkin, detectives launched the investigation into the supposed illicit activities at two parlors following complaints from citizens. The unidentified woman was charged with prostitution. Assistant City Manager Gerald Williamson said that in addition to the illicit operations there were employees reportedly living at the establishment. Officials on the scene of the sting in Lufkin, courtesy of the City of Lufkin Officials on the scene of the sting in Lufkin, courtesy of the City of Lufkin Officials on the scene of the sting in Lufkin, courtesy of the City of Lufkin Blue Water Spa and Lufkin Massage in Lufkin have been closed following the arrest. The City of Lufkin said that Code Enforcement shuttered the businesses citing ordinance violations. We will be having conversations with the property owners to make sure theyre fully aware of how sinister these places are and the tragic effects they have on people who are trafficked, said Williamson. We in Lufkin watch for this type of activity and we never intend to allow it in our community. We will take strong enforcement action any time we see it. Tyler authorities investigate after man found dead with gunshot wound The City of Lufkin, Lufkin PD, Angelina County Sheriffs Office, Texas Department of Public Safety, Nacogdoches County Sheriffs Office, Unbound Now and Family Crisis Center all participated in the operation. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com. All three Colombian Nationals who are suspects in Bettendorf residential burglaries are in custody in Scott County Jail, according to court records and Bettendorf Police Chief Keith Kimball. Luis Panameno-Rodallega, 30, was booked into Scott County Jail at 2:30 p.m. Thursday, while Luis Angulo-Garces, 32, was booked into the jail at 2:41 p.m., court records show. Jhon Hurtado-Advincula, 22, was booked into Scott County Jail earlier at 2:51 p.m. Feb. 2. It is likely they are responsible for other burglaries similar in nature in other parts unknown in the U.S., Police Chief Keith Kimball told Our Quad Cities News on Thursday. The three were apprehended in Altoona, Iowa last week after police discovered they were staying at a hotel there, Kimball said. Bettendorf Police worked with Altoona Police to apprehend the suspects while Bettendorf Police drove to Altoona. Earlier, Kimball said the investigation is ongoing, with a lot of evidence to sift through. (Clockwise from upper left) Luis Angulo-Garces (Polk County Jail), Jhon Hurtado-Advincula (Scott County Jail) and Luis Panameno-Rodallega (Polk County Jail) Each suspect faces felony charges of second-degree burglary, two charges of first-degree theft, a charge of third-degree burglary, two charges of conspiracy to commit a non-forcible felony, and two serious misdemeanor charges of fourth-degree criminal mischief, court records show. Two residential burglaries in Bettendorf At 6 p.m. Jan. 24, on Star View Drive in Bettendorf, the three conspired to commit and did commit an unoccupied residential burglary, Bettendorf Police say in affidavits. They were traveling in a black 2019 Ford Escape with Georgia license plates, affidavits show. The three forced entry by smashing out the glass of a basement sliding door. The master bedroom was ransacked and a safe was missing, according to affidavits. Police say the defendants were searching for high value items and took: $100,000 cash 1 kilo of gold (value: $65,000) 50 gold necklaces of unknown value A black 9 mm pistol Personal documents including passports, birth certificates, citizenship papers, etc. The cost to replace the rear sliding glass door was estimated at $500. At 8 p.m. Jan. 31 on Waveland Drive in Bettendorf, the three conspired to commit and did commit an unoccupied residential burglary, again traveling in the same SUV, police say in affidavits. Two of the defendants got out of the car, walked to the rear of the victims residence, and gained entry after breaking the rear sliding glass door. Once inside the residence they ransacked the master bedroom, police say in affidavits, and the suspects took: Jewelry including necklaces, earrings, and rings valued at over $100,000 Three Louis Vuitton handbags, valued at $7,000 Between $200 and $1,000 cash Checkbooks from the victims accounts. The cost to replace the rear sliding glass door was estimated at $500. Affidavits say search warrants were executed on the suspects persons, hotel room, and SUV. Located on their persons and in the suspect SUV were the items reported stolen from the Waveland Drive address as well as the suspects clothing, shoes, face masks, gloves, and flashlights they were seen wearing or using in the victims home security video during the burglary. Also located in the suspect vehicle was a piece of paper with numerous Quad City area addresses and Chinese restaurant names written on it, including a victims residential and business addresses, affidavits show. Suspect footwear impressions collected at the scene of both burglaries were found to be consistent with the shoes seized from the suspects via the search warrants, affidavits say. Traffic and surveillance cameras show the SUV going to and leaving both burglaries. All three of the defendants are Colombian Nationals in the United States unlawfully, arrest affidavits allege. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) Two Rutherford County men are in jail for their involvement in a so-called Wet & Wild street racing event held in August 2023 in Antioch. The Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD) said the incident happened on Aug. 5, 2023, at the intersection of Bell Road and Murfreesboro Pike. Metro police arrest man driving stolen SUV Hasan Al-Ghanem, 19, and Javier Quiroz, 18, both of La Vergne, are believed to be leaders of a group of street racers known as the Sideways Boyz. Both were arrested Thursday, Feb. 8 by the Rutherford County Sheriffs Office at the request of the MNPD, according to investigators. Hasan Al-Ghanem (Source: Metro Nashville Police Department) Javier Quiroz (Source: Metro Nashville Police Department) Al-Ghanem is charged with critical infrastructure vandalism, a felony, after police said he opened a Nashville fire hydrant and allowed water to flow freely into the intersection. He is also charged with engaging in a riot and is being held in lieu of a $30,000 bond. Quiroz is charged with felony reckless endangerment and engaging in a riot after he was seen drifting and whipping his car around during the Aug. 5 incident. He was identified as a slider, also known as a driver who performs dangerous stunts as pedestrians watch, according to investigators. He is being held in lieu of a $10,000 bond. CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime news from Middle Tennessee Police said Al-Ghanem and Quiroz are among the more than 20 people arrested over the past year for street racing/street takeovers in Nashville. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. Two Smyrna Police Department officers were sent to the hospital after they touched some paperwork with a mysterious substance on it. Little Stone is in jail charged with two felony counts of aggravated assault against an officer. According to court documents obtained by Channel 2 Cobb County Bureau Chief Michele Newell, Stone walked into the Smyrna Police Department with documents intended for the police chief. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Investigators say Stone was talking to the desk clerk when he handed paperwork to the officers. Minutes later, the officers started feeling extremely fatigued, chest pain, chest tightness, dizziness and difficult breathing. Both officers were taken to the hospital and are currently recovering. The FBI is assisting the Smyrna Police Department with the case, testing the paperwork to determine what kind of substance was on it. TRENDING STORIES: Stone is facing two felony counts of aggravated assault against an officer. In 2021, he was charged with making terroristic threats after he showed up to Puckett EMS and threatened to blow up employees. He was sentenced to 12 months of probation. Police say Stone was also on probation at the time of this incident. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: A student wears a mask to protect against the spread of COVID-19 as she worked on her laptop outside at Boston University, on Sept. 23, 2020. Credit - Jessica RinaldiThe Boston Globe/Getty Images In January, 2020, Luis was 21 and beginning the second semester of his junior year at a public university in New York City. He lived with family in Queens, and everyone pitched in to make ends meet. His father was retired. His mother collected disability insurance. His older sister, with whom he shared a bedroom, was a veterinary technician. Luis worked at a law firm. The apartment was crowded, loud, and sometimes crazy. But in New York City, what isnt? Luis was usually out in the world, anyway, because when youre in your twenties, the world is yours. When COVID hit, Luiss universe suddenly narrowed. No school. No job. No parties. No friends. He went grocery shopping and was stunned to find the shelves nearly empty. People were just hoarding, he recalled. There was nothing. A few days later, he lost his sense of smell. Soon, his whole family had the virus. It was scary, because by then Queens was one of the most dangerous places on the planet. Ambulance sirens blared around the clock. Local hospitals were filled to capacity, with so many dead bodies that they needed refrigerated trucks to store the remains. Luis experienced all this as a shock to his system. A few weeks earlier, he was looking at graduate schools and thinking about a new life in a new city. Now his main goal was to survive. In February, I was teaching an undergraduate course on the sociology of climate change at NYU, lecturing about how crises can spark major transformations in states, societies, and individual lives, too. My example was the Great Depression, which not only contributed to the rise of fascism in Europe and the New Deal in the U.S., but alsoas all of us with penny-pinching grandparents who insisted we save up instead of buying that shiny new thing remembershaped the habits and beliefs of a generation. When I used the phrase, depression era mentality, everyone knew what I meant. Back then, in the Before Times, the class was focused on the prospect of an ecological catastrophe; only one student was concerned about the new coronavirus, and he had just arrived from China. By March the US was plunging into a pandemic emergency. Campuses closed everywhere. Classrooms went remote. Jobs disappeared. NYU undergraduates, like those at most residential colleges, were forced out of their dorms and sent home. In the years that followed, millions of young adults who had planned to spend their twenties immersed in social life, searching for new opportunities, and prying the world open, found themselves, instead, hunkering down. How the sustained disruptions of the pandemic years changed Americas twenty-somethings is a question weve failed to answer. Its not even one weve seriously examined. In recent years, scientists and policy makers have been consumed with the problems of other cohorts: children suffering from learning loss; overworked parents; old people with elevated risks of COVID death and disease. But this year, as young adults who came of age in 2020 have become swing voters in the presidential electionwith pollsters noting their surprisingly high levels of disengagement and an unexpected surge of support for Donald Trumptheres an urgent need to understand how the pandemic shaped them. Our future may be in their hands. Luis was one of the 33 college students and recent graduates whom Isabelle Caraluzzi (an NYU doctoral student) and I interviewed for a book about the year 2020. They were a diverse group, from dramatically different universities, with a wide range of interests and ambitions, so it was striking to find so many commonalities in their pandemic experience: Stress, anxiety, and a generalized insecurity from which they have yet to be relieved. Deep uncertainty about the nature of the post-pandemic world. Feeling obligated to make enormous sacrifices for the good of others, despite no one in power ever naming, recognizing, honoring, or compensating them for their losses. Being disillusioned. Losing faithnot only in the core institutions that anchor society, but in the idea of society itself. By summer, 2020, Luis had fully recovered his sense of smell and taste. But I lost everything, he reported. His family, once stable, was now impoverished. They relied on food pantries, which helped with the basics but satisfied no one. It was just repetitive, the basic food you get. Eating crackers and cheese every day. Luis looked for government programs that could help them with rent, food, jobs, dignity. There wasnt much on offer. So I ended up just going into stores to shoplift. I used to do it when I was younger, because I had no source of income. I was kind of going back to those days. Luis lied to his parents, making up stories about odd jobs or gift cards hed picked up. It was harrowing, he recalled, and not great for his pride or dignity, either. But I didn't get caught. As the year dragged on, Luis found himself feeling trapped by the pandemic and its many burdens. The apartment was confining. The food insecurity, the problem of paying rent, the joblessness, the small businesses closing, the desperation that was suddenly visible across the city, the anxiety that lingered everywhereall of it weighed on Luis. There were also bright spots. In the absence of reliable public assistance, New Yorkers started mutual aid networks and neighbors helped each other like they had never done before. He got a job as a COVID-19 contact tracer, though that also involved getting bombarded with sad stories from people whod gotten sick and were afraid of what would happen next. In May, after the Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin killed George Floyd, Luis joined thousands of New Yorkers in protests that lasted through the summer. It was connected to the pandemic, Luis said. It was boiling over at that point, this kind of mistreatment. And the reason I went was because it kind of showed that, yeah, we've lost our jobs, we lost all our money. People are gonna do what they need to survive. Read More: Pandemics Don't End. They Echo Some things, though, got lost or put on hold. Luis gave up on graduate school, for fear of condemning himself to years of online classes. His social life remained nonexistent not for lack of events and parties, but because I worry about my family and not getting really sick. Like millions of his contemporaries, Luis distanced myself from hanging out this year, haven't really socialized at all. The toll of this deprivation was unmistakable. In some ways, the pandemic had stalled his development; in others, it aged him. I grew up like ten years in the pandemic, he told us. A remarkable number of the twenty-somethings we interviewed expressed this same sentiment. So much happened while no one did anything and time stood still. Inevitably, young adults came out in a different place. Active, dynamic, and, occasionally, experimental or boundary-crossing social relationships are key features of what social scientists call the extended adolescence stage of character development. During ordinary times, most young American adults enjoy an open, freewheeling, permissive cultural environment, one that encourages and rewards the formation of social ties.The psychologist Jeffrey Arnett emphasizes the optimism and emergent sense of possibility that people in their twenties often feel during this period. Young people use this life stage to build up their personal and professional networks, setting up support systems and friendship groups that will nourish them even if they put off marriage. The pandemic produced a social famine, and its after effects persist. During 2020, young adults who had always been relatively carefree in their social lives quickly became circumspect and judgmental. Everyones behavior was loaded with new significance: wearing masks, attending parties, taking risky jobs, or eating indoors became emblems of politics and personal values. Everyone became a judge. Some became angry and disappointed by friends who violated health guidelines, or at those who followed the rules too closely, or at those who just didnt seem to be paying attention. Others discovered that they were now outcasts, sanctioned and estranged from friends who deemed them irresponsible or untrustworthy about COVID. According to a 2023 Gallup poll, Americans between 12 and 26 express strikingly low levels of trust in our political and social institutions, and those 18-26 are considerably more cynical than their slightly younger peers. The distrust extends from civic life into their social networks, making everyone a bit more defensive, lest another toxic personality piece their friend group. I definitely have categories of friends now that I didnt have before, said Jamie, a 25-year-old actor. Most of my close friends are [behaving] how I am behaving, trying to be a good person I guess. But some, he said, I might never hang out with again because they behaved so poorly. The young adults we spoke with saw their friend groups fracture due to sharp differences in values or the sense that seemingly good people were, in fact, selfish or dishonest. People revealed themselves in 2020. Society did, too. For most of the young adults we spoke with, the ugly things were hard to put out of sight. The coronavirus arrived in America just as local universities were beginning the winter semester. When campuses closed, the disruption was both acute and long-lasting, and the consequences included mental health problems, food and housing insecurity, and problems keeping up with school work. At first, the shift required adjusting to a new way of learning: distanced, digital, impersonal, and individual. There were no more office hours with professors, no more study sessions in libraries or dorms; no impromptu get-togethers after class discussions or debates at cafeterias and coffee shops. California Institute of Technology students Carolyn Lu, 19, left, and Teresa Huang, 19, on the campus of the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) on Friday, Jan. 7, 2022 in Los Angeles, CA. University California officials announce extension of remote instruction on five campuses, say high COVID-19 positivity rates call for extra precautions. Gary Coronado-Los Angeles Times/Getty Images Some never made the transition to remote education; they stopped attending or missed assignments and wound up failing classes.Others simply lost interest and motivation. Subjects that had always fascinated them seemed irrelevant as the pandemic set in and their social worlds collapsed. Their performance slipped. When the semester concluded, a second set of problems emerged, and these had more durable significance. Was college really worth it? Should they change their course of study and do something to increase their odds of financial success? Drop out and help support their family instead? Its not surprising that the pandemic altered and, in some cases, prematurely terminated the educational paths of young adults. The COVID-19 pandemic created the largest disruption of education systems in human history, affecting nearly 1.6 billion learners in more than 200 countries, write Sumitra Pokhrel and Roshan Chhetti. Young adults in the U.S. higher education system faced a specific set of challenges, including the steep cost of tuition, the burden of substantial student debt, and the expectation of graduating into a tight labor market without a strong safety net. Read More: Why Do I Keep COVID-19 When Those Around Me Don't Fear, disorientation, and self-doubt were common themes in our conversations. So, too, was uncertaintynot simply about how to get through the pandemic, but about whether a good life would be possible in the new, climate-changed, virus-stricken world we were spiraling into at breakneck speed. Sharice, a 25-year-old public university graduate, said she lost her sense of direction during 2020. I don't know what I want to do anymore, she acknowledged. I met with a career advisor and they asked what I was interested in. I went blank. I told my therapist, she asked me what I was interested in, I went blank. Before this whole pandemic happened, I had an answer for that. I don't even know any more, I really don't know. Craig, a 23-year-old private university graduate, had elaborate plans and aspirations before the pandemic started. I'm like, a theater dude. I like to be in plays and make them, and that's just been wiped off the face of the earth for the foreseeable future. He got a job at one of those Instagram museums so that he could make ends meet. I've basically given up on any kind of planning for the future, he conceded. Ambitions are just dangerous right now. I don't even know that the world's going to be here! If, for some young Americans, profound uncertainty fostered nihilism or stasis, for others it gave rise to new commitments, of various forms. Angelica, a 21-year-old Latina student, had a job as a paralegal before the pandemic hit, and she used her income to pay for things like clothes and nights out at restaurants and bars. She lost her position, and the promise of a full-time job in the firm after graduation, soon after the economy contracted in March of 2020. It was painful and challenging, as was her decision, a few weeks later, to file for unemployment. Going on welfare just didnt seem like the kind of thing she would ever do. The experience made Angelica realize how important financial stability was to her sense of identity. As an economics major, she felt some shame at not being economically independent. By summer, Angelica had found a new job, but she told us that she no longer feels entitled to the luxury of spending money on things like drinking with friends. The shock of insecurity she experienced led her to invest in her future. She paid down her maxed-out credit card, chipped away at her student loans, and made sure she sent in her rent check on time. My name is on this lease, she explained, and I have to pay my bills. She also got fixated on improving her credit score, using the number as a marker of her accomplishment, a sign and symbol that she was back on her feet. It's so funny, being a finance and economics major and finally understanding the value of a dollar in my last year because of a personal experience through Covid, she remarked. She viewed the crisis as a hard but important life lesson, one that would ultimately take her to a better place. Yasmina, a 21-year-old who attended a Jesuit college, said 2020 convinced her to look for a different kind of security. She gave up on fleeting friendships, and focused on the people whose values, interests, and goals align with hers. I kind of see who's in my life permanently, and I see who is in my life temporarily I find it a lot harder to maintain more of those surface level connections with people. Leticia, whos also 21, said, Im more picky with who I relate to. I started to hang out only with specific people that were my really close friends. I try to avoid socializing with people that are not going to form long-lasting relationships with me. Both Yasmina and Leticia are spending more time with their romantic partners. Yasmina believes that going through the pandemic together made her relationship stronger. It was their hardest year ever, she acknowledged, but they survived. For Leticia, her close bond with her boyfriend, whom she had been casually seeing before the pandemic, is in part a result of the months when they were unable to do anything other than text and video call. I liked the fact that we were just talking for like three months, she explained. When they finally were able to go on actual dates (mostly getting takeout and sitting in his car!), she was comforted knowing they had cultivated trust and friendship first. We were just there for each other, Leticia said. Thats all I needed. People fill Sheep Meadow in Central Park as the city continues Phase 4 of re-opening following restrictions imposed to slow the spread of coronavirus on September 26, 2020 in New York City. The fourth phase allows outdoor arts and entertainment, sporting events without fans and media production. Noam Galai-Getty Images In some cases, young peoples need for intimacy in the pandemic intensified and accelerated their relationships. Some couples made big leaps at the outset of the crisis, deciding to quarantine together even though they had never cohabitated. Others jumped into a serious relationship during the peak pandemic months. Many said they reconnected with people they had casually dated but not given much thought to before the lockdowns, or rekindled romances that they thought had flamed out. The biggest opportunities during 2020 transcended personal relationships, and involved more political concerns. Studies show that some 15 to 26 million Americans participated in Black Lives Matter protests that year, with young adults, aged 18-34, expressing by far the most support. Twenty-somethings across the country came out, en masse, not only because they were outraged by police violence against Black people. In my interviews, I learned that they were also incensed by the glaring governmental failures and other forms of injustice that had become so apparent in the pandemic. That summer millions of young Americans were beginning to believe that a better world was possible. They marched. They organized. And then they did something seemingly routine but massively consequential: they registered to vote. The civic reawakening of young Americans pushed participation among 18-29 year-old Americans to record levels in 2020, with fifty percent voting in the presidential election, compared to 39 percent in 2016. Joe Biden needed all of the twenty-point margin that he won among these voters to reach the White House. If he doesnt get something like that this year, the U.S. will likely take another sharp turn to the extreme right. Theres reason to believe that young Americans are pushing us in that direction. The passion for social change that inspired so many to protest and vote was nearly rewarded with policies that promised to transform the lives of twenty-somethings, from student debt relief to climate change mitigation. But conservatives in Washington, from Senator Joe Manchin, who killed Bidens signature social and environmental bill, Build Back Better, to the Supreme Court, which deemed Bidens student debt forgiveness program illegal, largely blocked the presidents plans. As the 2024 primary elections get started, most 18-29 year-olds remain skeptical of Trump and incensed by the GOPs assault on reproductive rights. But theyre also disappointed with President Biden for not fully delivering the post-pandemic boost he promised. His mixed record on core generational issues, including student debt forgiveness and climate change, has tampered their enthusiasm, as has his refusal or inability to curb Israels massively deadly counter-attacks on Gaza. During 2020, young Americans came out for Biden because they believed he would transform things. Instead, the country has stagnated. Nothing has restored their faith in the future, no national candidate has earned their trust. By now, weve had years to reckon with the cascading crises of 2020. But instead of processing what we went through, weve largely repressed our collective traumas and neglected to recognize what it took to survive. The coronavirus, we know, was far less dangerous for most young people than it was for older generations. It may well have been reasonable to demand that they give up things they hold sacred, from social and educational opportunities to jobs and careers, for the common good and the health of more vulnerable people. But surely we owe them something in return. At minimum, Americas twenty-somethings deserve recognition for their sacrifices. But something more substantial seems more appropriate, given how much we asked from them when everything was on the line. Respect. Debt relief. College scholarships. Compensation, perhaps. Today, none of these are on either partys platform. Everyone wants to win over young people, but no one has offered meaningful support. We havent even given thanks. * All names here are pseudonyms, because the young adults in my sociological study were promised anonymity. Adapted from Eric Klinenberg's 2020: One City, Seven People, and the Year That Everything Changed, published by Knopf. Contact us at letters@time.com. TOKYO, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- The Japanese government on Friday approved plans to scrap the country's controversial training program for foreigners and replace it with a new system that will improve rights protection. Under the new system, which will replace the Technical Intern Training Program, certain restrictions on workplace transfers will be relaxed, according to local media. The government has decided to set a maximum limit of two years for job transfers of the trainees, depending on the field, Kyodo News reported. Previously, transfers were largely prohibited, leading to instances of trainees disappearing amid harsh working conditions. The new system will also allow trainees to shift to a specified skilled worker system, introduced in 2019, that makes it possible for stays of up to five years with the potential for obtaining permanent residency. The existing Technical Intern Training Program is a government scheme introduced in 1993 to provide training opportunities for foreigners in various industries in Japan. But it has faced criticism and scrutiny over the years due to reports of labor exploitation, human rights abuses, and inadequate working conditions experienced by some participants. Concerns have been raised about the program being used as a means to secure cheap labor rather than as a genuine training opportunity. Friday's approval at a ministerial meeting paves the way for the government to submit bills to parliament as early as March to introduce the new system, according to Kyodo News. Citing lax government response to Islamic extremist attacks on a Christian community last August, an advocacy group on Wednesday (Feb. 7) filed another plea for justice with the Supreme Court of Pakistan. Implementation of Minority Rights Forum (IMRF) Chairman Samuel Makson filed the application with a request for a hearing as early as possible on redress for the attack on Christians homes and shops on Aug. 16 in Jaranwala, Faisalabad District, Punjab Province. Makson had filed a similar plea in the Supreme Court on Dec. 8, seeking an early hearing of the suo motu notice taken by the Supreme Court after Muslim mobs in Jaranwala ransacked and burned at least 20 church buildings and more than 100 homes of Christians over allegations of desecration of the Quran and blasphemous writings. Maksons latest petition states that soon after the incident, both the caretaker chief minister of Punjab and caretaker prime minister had separately visited Jaranwala and pledged compensation of 2 million rupees (USD7,145) to each victim family. The two officials also promised restoration of the damaged church buildings within three days, it added. The latest petition notes that the governments assessment of Christians losses was flawed, stating that 146 houses were damaged while the government report cited only 80 affected homes. Of these 80 households, the government has compensated 76 families, while the remaining four havent received the promised amount, the petition states. It adds that despite repeated efforts by Christian groups to rectify the assessment, officials remain indifferent. Another matter of grave concern was the abrupt halt of reconstruction activities at various churches, with a noticeable lack of responsiveness from the government authorities, the petition states. This cessation has left affected churches incomplete and vulnerable, demanding immediate attention and action. Maksons petition also questions the bail granted to a most of the suspects. The arrest of 283 individuals in connection with the incident raises concerns about the investigative process, but shockingly about 223 accused have been granted bail, and 14 discharged, underscoring potential flaws in the police investigation and highlighting the urgency for a thorough review, it states. The petition points out that despite proper identification by Christian complainants, police failed to recover the items used for destruction of church buildings from the arrested suspects. Additionally, the existence of videos collected from different sources has not resulted in action against the perpetrators, further underscoring the need for a robust and just response, it states. The petition notes that 25 Christians filed 25 First Information Reports (FIRs) regarding theft of their belongings. The polices lackluster response and absence of investigations or a Joint Investigation Team (JIT), however, have left victims in despair, it adds. The application mentioned the Sept. 8 hearing of the case in which the Supreme Court planned to re-list the case after two weeks. Thus far, however, no date for hearing of the case has been set. Hence, keeping in view the agony of the affectees and the sensitivity of the matter, the present case needs to be fixed at an early date, the petitioner stresses. At the last hearing, the Supreme Court ordered the Advocate General Punjab to file a report about absence of a security plan, which the provincial government was to develop to ensure protection of the Christian community as well as safeguard churches and residences. The special plan had envisaged establishing a quick response unit to prevent any violent attack on the Christian community. Little Hope for Justice Most of the suspects in the Jaranwala attacks have been released on bail or discharged due to defective investigation by police, unsubstantiated naming of them by some Christian complainants and lax attitudes of senior Christian leaders, sources said. Police harassment of complainants and witnesses, officers deliberately arresting innocent bystanders instead of known assailants, and Christian leaders failure to ensure proper investigation and legal cases were responsible for most suspects walking free on bail, according to Shakeel Bhatti, a former councillor in Jaranwala. The police deliberately picked up several people whose presence on the scene could not be corroborated with evidence, he recently told Christian Daily International-Morning Star News. We identified several suspects who were actively involved in the attacks, and there was video evidence against them too, but they havent been arrested yet despite repeated requests. Bhatti added that most suspects in five cases registered by the government had been granted bail due to ineffective police investigation. Those bails also benefitted the suspects in the 17 privately filed cases as the same Joint Investigative Teams probed all the FIRs, he added. Though 600-800 unidentified suspects were implicated in 22 terrorism cases five registered by the state and 17 by local Christians church sources said only 283 suspects were arrested. The government registered five FIRs under sections against terrorism, blasphemy, attempted murder, arson, hate speech and others on the day of the attacks, while 17 Christians filed private FIRs on similar charges on Aug. 21. Pakistan ranked seventh on Open Doors 2024 World Watch List of the most difficult places to be a Christian, as it was the previous year. A grand jury indicted seven people linked to an attack last month on two police officers in New Yorks Times Square that was captured on video, Manhattans top prosecutor announced Thursday. Five of the defendants indicted, whose names have been released, face felony charges. Four of them face charges of second-degree assault, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg said at an afternoon news conference. The names of two defendants who were indicted were not released because they have not been arrested, Bragg said. This assault sickened me and outraged me, Bragg said. As a lifelong New Yorker, I do not tolerate attacks on police officers, and certainly I do not as Manhattan district attorney. The melee occurred the night of Jan. 27 as police were trying to disperse a crowd when a fight broke out. The officers who were assaulted sustained minor injuries, police said. The five suspects who were previously arrested and were indicted are Yorman Reveron, 24; Darwin Andres Gomez-Izquiel, 19; Kelvin Servita Arocha, 19; Wilson Juarez, 21; and Yohenry Brito, 24. Bragg called the investigation by prosecutors and police meticulous and detailed some of the defendants' alleged crimes. Gomez-Izquiel allegedly grabbed one officer and kicked another, and Reveron allegedly grabbed and pulled two officers to the ground. Both men are charged with two counts of second-degree assault and obstructing governmental administration, Bragg said. Assault on two police officers in Times Square on Jan. 27, 2024. (NYPD Crime Stoppers) Two of the men Juarez and Servita Arocha did not assault police, Bragg said. Juarez gave a suspect a jacket and then put a jacket on before he discarded it to avoid an arrest, Bragg said. He is charged with tampering with physical evidence and third-degree hindering prosecution, prosecutors said. Servita Arocha is charged with second-degree assault and obstructing governmental administration after he allegedly kicked a police radio. Brito, who authorities said was at the center of the melee when he refused to follow police orders to move because he and a group were blocking the street, was charged with two counts of second-degree assault, obstructing governmental administration, tampering with physical evidence and third-degree hindering prosecution, Bragg said. Brito has been held on bail since Feb. 1, Bragg said. Reveron, Gomez-Izquiel, Servita Arocha and Juarez were released on their own recognizance after their arraignments. On Jan. 31, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul criticized the decision to allow the suspects to be released. Im not satisfied with that at all, she said. These are law enforcement officers, who should never, under any circumstances, be subjected to physical assault. Its wrong on all accounts, and Im looking to judges and prosecutors to do the right thing. We have changed bail laws. We have different laws now as a result of what we did in 2022, in the 2023 budgets, and were seeing a decline in repeat offenders. We have all sorts of data that shows its working, but that situation is abhorrent to me. Police have said some of the suspects who were released were believed to have taken a bus out of New York City. The men were not required to stay in New York based on the terms of their release. Bragg announced Thursday that authorities are seeking four more people suspected of assaulting the officers. Up to 13 people may have been involved in the attack, prosecutors said. Officials with Immigration and Customs Enforcement said this week that the agency had apprehended four people believed to be involved in the attack. However, three senior law enforcement officials told NBC News the people in ICE custody do not match the identities or names of those involved in the New York attack. A police spokesperson had previously said seven people arrested in connection with last month's incident are migrants. NBC News has not been able to confirm that or how long they have been in the U.S. At least two defendants provided addresses that have been used as shelters for recently arrived migrants. New York Mayor Eric Adams, who also spoke to reporters Thursday, said that authorities do not care whether the defendants were migrants or asylum- seekers and that the majority within those groups are law-abiding citizens. But, he said that if the indicted defendants are convicted, the federal government should do its job in deporting them from our city. Authorities did not speak Thursday about the whereabouts of the defendants who may have absconded. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com NEW YORK Seven people have been indicted in connection to the Times Square melee between a group of migrants and NYPD officers, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg said at a joint press conference Thursday with the mayor and police officials. The felony indictment unsealed in Manhattan Supreme Court, handed up by a grand jury on Wednesday, charged four asylum-seekers arrested in the wake of the Jan. 27 brawl Darwin Andres Gomez-Izquiel, Kelvin Servita Arocha, Yorman Reveron and Yoherny Brito with second-degree assault and obstructing governmental administration. A fifth migrant, Wilson Juarez, was charged with tampering with physical evidence and two counts of third-degree hindering prosecution. Brito, 24, whos being held on Rikers Island, was additionally charged with tampering with physical evidence and one count of hindering prosecution. Before the indictments were announced Thursday, Brito had been the only suspect charged by a grand jury in the case. Two of the suspects included in the indictment were not identified by name. Bragg says the seven people under indictment are among 11 people involved in caught-on-video confrontation outside a migrant shelter in Times Square, on W. 42nd St. near Seventh Avenue. That number is down from earlier law enforcement statements that 14 people were believed involved in the incident. One of the 11 people allegedly involved is 22-year-old Jhoan Boada, who has been charged by prosecutors but has not been indicted by a grand jury. Several of the 11 people involved are at large, their whereabouts unknown, authorities say. Among those are two men in the indictment announced Thursday whose names are under seal and three who are unidentified and unindicted. One of the two men involved in the fight not identified in the indictment was taken into custody after the melee and later released. That suspect allegedly kicked and grabbed one of the officers legs. The other unnamed man in the indictment, who is accused of grabbing an officer, was seen in surveillance footage wearing a jacket Juarez had on when police arrested him later that night, according to court docs. Bragg said the indictments came after a painstaking joint investigation between his office and the NYPD. Prosecutors allege that several suspects changed their clothes after the altercation, making them harder to track down. Citing a flood of misinformation spreading about the case, Bragg walked reporters through surveillance footage frame-by-frame and refuted claims that federal authorities had arrested four suspects out of state. Bragg said the Department of Homeland Security notified his office on Tuesday that the people mentioned in news reports as having been arrested in the case in fact had nothing to do with the Times Square incident, and there is otherwise no indication the feds have intercepted anyone involved. The level of review was meticulous because it must be, Bragg said. The only thing worse than failing to bring perpetrators to justice would be to ensnare innocent people in the criminal justice system. The DA and NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said the Jan. 27 fracas came about when two cops told the group to move away from the shelter. The officers grabbed Brito when he refused their instructions and pushed him against the building. Brito allegedly put up a fight when he was knocked to the sidewalk. Authorities are yet to release police-worn body camera footage of the dust-up and declined to answer questions at the press conference about when they would. Gomez-Izquiel allegedly then grabbed one of the cops and kicked another one time; Reveron allegedly grabbed, pulled and threw the two officers to the ground. Juarez and Arocha didnt assault either officer, according to court documents Arocha is accused of kicking one of the cops radios, and Juarez allegedly watched from the sidelines and gave Brito his FILA jacket as a disguise. Neither of the officers assaulted was seriously injured. Cops arrested Gomez-Izquiel, Reveron, Juarez and Arocha the night of the incident, and all were released under supervision after their arraignments. Brito fled and was arrested by cops on Jan. 31 and has been held at Rikers since Feb. 1 on $15,000 bail. Prosecutors dropped charges against a 21-year-old initially charged with felony assault, saying they no longer believed he was involved. The DA came under fire from police unions and right-wing groups when his assistant prosecutors declined to seek bail for all of the initial suspects charged except Brito. Some Republicans and right-leaning elected officials called on Gov. Kathy Hochul to remove Bragg from office and for the suspects to be deported. As Bragg announced the new indictments Wednesday afternoon, a small group of protesters gathered outside waving Trump flags and signs with messages like Bragg is putting our NYPD in danger and All Globalist Puppets have to go. Mayor Eric Adams praised Bragg and the Police Departments sophisticated handling of the case. He urged New Yorkers to respect the process and be pleased that authorities dont endorse vigilantism like Curtis Sliwa but proper investigation. Throughout the weekend and week, the district attorney kept the NYPD up to date, we communicated several times, and he was clear on the complexity of apprehending the individuals involved, and he wanted to get it right, the mayor said. We are going to pursue anyone that commits a crime if they are longstanding New Yorkers or if they are new arrivals and thats what were doing, but in no way should we give any indicator that the overwhelming number of migrants and asylum seekers are (not) law-abiding and pursuing the American Dream. _____ LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) Seven more people have been charged in the alleged hazing death of Phat Nguyen, 21, in Nov. 2021. A spokesman for Ingham County Prosecutor John Dewane says, The additional charges are based on further investigation by East Lansing Police. Since Jan. 31, Courtney Thang, 22; Ali Ghazi, 23, David Shim, 23, Hanna Lee, 24, Sumin Yoo, 22, Nicholas Phraxayavong, 23, and Hoang John Pham, 24 have all been arrested on felony charges of hazing causing a death, as well as three counts each of misdemeanor hazing causing injury charges. Two others were charged in 2022 Ethan Cao, 24, and Andrew Nguyen, 25 and their cases are still pending. A third person was charged in 2022, but those charges were dismissed. Police say Nguyen was found in a room in a basement in the 400 block of Stoddard Ave. on Nov. 21, 2021. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Three others were transported to a local hospital with high blood alcohol levels. 6 News media partner MLive reports seized cellphone records containing videos of the crossover event to celebrate new members of the Pi Alpha Phi fraternity. Those videos showed excessive alcohol consumption, requiring physically demanding or demeaning actions of pledges and forcing the pledges to don womens t-shirts with the words Im Gay written on them. The fraternity was suspended. The MSU chapter of the fraternity was closed, MLive reports. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News. Seven people have been indicted in connection with an assault last month on two New York City police officers near Times Square, and authorities still are working to identify three other people they say were involved, the Manhattan district attorney announced Thursday. The indictments come in a case thats drawn attention in part because of the immigration status of at least some of the defendants, and because four of those named in the indictment were released last week without bail a move that state and city officials have criticized. Yorman Reveron, Darwin Andres Gomez-Izquiel, Kelvin Servita Arocha and Yohenry Brito are charged with two counts of second-degree assault and one count of second-degree obstructing governmental administration in connection with the January 27 incident, in which authorities say a group of people pushed, struggled with, grabbed or kicked two officers as the officers tried to arrest someone. Brito and a fifth man, Wilson Juarez, are each charged with one count of tampering with physical evidence. Brito also is charged with a count of hindering prosecution in the third degree, and Juarez faces two counts of that charge. A sixth and a seventh person also have been indicted, but their names are under seal because they have not been arrested and arraigned, the office of Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg said. The two officers sustained minor injuries and were treated at the scene, police said. CNN has sought comment from attorneys for the named suspects. Gomez-Izquiels attorney declined to comment. A spokesperson for The Legal Aid Society, a nonprofit law firm, said Reveron has no prior criminal convictions and urged the public to reserve judgement while we conduct our investigation into this case. An attorney for Juarez, Adrienne Doreen Edward, told CNN her client was originally charged with assault but prosecutors downgraded his charges after determining he did not, in fact, assault a police officer. Edward expects Juarez to appear in court next week, she said. Investigators are looking for three other people who have not been identified but are seen in images from the scene, Bragg said in a news conference Thursday. Police have used surveillance video of the incident publicly released last week as well as body camera video, other images and interviews to help identify suspects, Bragg said. District Attorney Alvin Bragg shows images of three people he said officials are working to identify. The first three people seen from the left have not been identified, he said. - NYC Mayor's Office This assault, as it did to many of you, sickened me and outraged me. We all rely on members of the NYPD every day to keep us safe and keep this the safest big city in America, Bragg said in Thursday afternoons news conference. Six people initially were arraigned on charges last week after they were arrested. Of them, only Brito has been held in jail since his arrest. The other five Reveron, Gomez-Izquiel, Arocha, Juarez, and a man who has not been indicted were released without bail. The fifth man, who initially was arraigned on assault charges, has not been indicted as the (prosecutors) office continues to investigate, Braggs office said Thursday. The release of suspects without bail was criticized by officials including New Yorks governor and the citys mayor. But Bragg has defended his offices decision not to request bail, saying there was no evidence the men would flee. Of the five men who were released without bail after being arraigned last week, four subsequently took a bus to a California town near the border with Mexico, a senior law enforcement official said. The district attorney last week said his office was investigating that report. At least some of the people arrested in connection with the assault are migrants, a police source told CNN last week. On Thursday, Bragg said that there has been misinformation about the suspects but said there has been no evidence of flight. One of the suspects appeared in Manhattan court on Wednesday for a separate matter, Bragg added. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul told MSNBC on Tuesday the alleged assault was an abhorrent act and said the suspects should have been held in custody, adding anyone who thinks they should have been let loose, I have a big disagreement with. At Thursdays news conference, New York City Mayor Eric Adams said that the overwhelming number of migrants and asylum seekers coming to the city are law-abiding and just want to finish the next leg of their journey of pursuing the American dream. How officials say the attack unfolded The incident began just after 8:30 p.m. on January 27, officials said Thursday. Authorities have released surveillance video of the confrontation. A large group of men, including Brito, were standing in front of the shelter and blocking a street, forcing people to walk around them, NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph E. Kenny said at Thursdays news conference. Officers responded and directed the crowd to disperse because they were blocking the sidewalk. Everyone dispersed except for Brito, who became confrontational with police, Kenny said. He refused a lawful order. They attempted to place him under arrest, and the melee begins with the officers trying to take Mr. Brito into custody, Kenny said. When an officer grasped Brito and pushed him against a building, Brito attempted to escape and struggled against the officers while he was held on the ground, Braggs office said. And the next thing you know, theyre being attacked by 13 other people, Kenny said. Brito was at the center of this assault and was the person who was wrestling with and doing other things with the officers on the ground, Bragg said. During the confrontation, Gomez-Izquiel grabbed an officer and kicked another officer, Bragg said. Reveron is accused of grabbing, pulling and throwing two officers to the ground, according to the district attorney, who showed still pictures taken from video footage of the scene. Neither Juarez nor Arocha touched any officers, but Arocha is accused of kicking an officers radio, Braggs office said. Juarez, who prosecutors say watched the assault from a distance, gave his jacket to Brito and took another persons jacket, Bragg said. Officials believe the suspects changed clothes on purpose to make it harder for authorities to identify them, Bragg said. Of the three people who have yet to be identified and arrested, one of them kicked an officers head multiple times and grabbed and pulled the collar of another officer, while another kicked an officer in the head, Bragg said. A third unidentified person kicked an officer, Bragg said. This was a despicable act, Adams, the mayor, said Thursday. It was not only an attack on the individuals who wore the police uniform, but it was an attack on our symbol of justice. CNNs Rob Frehse contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com You know what you did, Antoni. You know what you did, Antoni. If you want to start a war, mess with someones guacamole. You can upset friends and loved ones just by adding any of the following ingredients to their favorite guacamole recipe: diced tomatoes, cilantro, onion, garlic (or heaven forbid, onion powder or garlic powder) or lemon juice. But those are the least of the offenders ... The next-level crimes against guacamole are adding ingredients like pomegranate seeds, bacon, red pepper or parsley. But it gets worse. Weve identified eight of recent historys worst blasphemes against guacamole, starting with the most recent and working our way back. If you decide to commit any of these sins in your own kitchen, youre on your own. 1. That time Antoni Porowski from Queer Eye added Greek yogurt to guacamole Implying theres anything imperfect about Porowski feels like harming a bunny, so this one is difficult to talk about. But on Episode 1 of the Queer Eye reboot, so-called food expert Porowski did such an injustice to guacamole that it launched a thousand theories about whether hes ever actually stepped foot in a kitchen. His mistake involved Greek yogurt. Im gonna teach you how to make a guac from scratch, Porowski said to his student. Fair enough: He used avocado, salt, lime juice and cilantro. This is pretty much all that you need for a guacamole. Correct. He should have stopped there. But he continued, One thing I like to add my guac? I like things to be super creamy. Im like, a dairy freak. So this is tangy Greek yogurt. It has so much less fat than sour cream, and it has a lot of flavor. I like to put a little spoon in there. But theres one problem. Sour cream has no business being in guacamole in the first place, much less a sour cream replacement. Need proof? Sandra Lee puts sour cream in hers.Case closed. But Porowski has scored a cookbook deal since then, so this fiasco didnt set him too far back. 2. That time Hellmanns told us to put mayo in guacamole In 2016, someone at Hellmanns lost their mind when the @HellmannsUK Twitter account tweeted, Mayo in guac, its better. Trust us. #Grilltopia. Surveys have revealed that mayonnaise is the overall preferred condiment of Brits, but that didnt make things OK for those on the internet. People freaked out. 3. That time The New York Times suggested adding green peas to guacamole, and President Barack Obama immediately shut it down The following 2015 Twitter exchange explains everything you need to know. Add green peas to your guacamole. Trust us. http://t.co/7imMY9c2phpic.twitter.com/oeOMt2qgmh The New York Times (@nytimes) July 1, 2015 respect the nyt, but not buying peas in guac. onions, garlic, hot peppers. classic. https://t.co/MEEI8QHH1V President Obama (@POTUS44) July 1, 2015 4. That time Marks & Spencer presented the world with Brusselmole The British retailer released a very special version of guacamole for its holiday menu in 2015, and it was made with ... Brussels sprouts. It was perhaps its worst holiday gift to the world of all time. Here: have some Brussel Mole... M&S take on guac for the holiday season #christmasinjulypic.twitter.com/1ukSHXBqYS Sasha Wilkins (@LibertyLndnGirl) June 30, 2015 5. That time Bon Appetit put celery in its guac Keep Your Teeth Happy With A Crunchy Little Guac, a Bon Appetit headline declared in 2014. Go home, youve had too much to drink, said the rest of the world. 6, 7 and 8. Let us not forget the sins of many food bloggers who are to blame for a host of terrifying guacamole recipes While not all bloggers guacamole crimes have gone viral, there are some that should. Quartz pointed out a few of the biggest offenders. We wont share photos, for the sake of your well-being. Here are the worst: We are done here. Related Coverage SAN DIEGO (Border Report) About 80 percent of asylum-seekers who come to the United States are being rejected and sent back home, according to Luis Miranda, Assistant Secretary for Communications with the Department of Homeland Security. In general, most of the people who arrived in the United States during the last three years have been deported, expelled or returned to Mexico, Miranda said during a video news conference on Wednesday afternoon. He stated those who could not be immediately sent back face removal proceedings that can take years. Asylum-seekers are allowed to remain in the U.S. during the legal process but cannot obtain work permits, he said. Miranda also stressed that asylum is for those who have been persecuted, belong to vulnerable populations, or are discriminated against for their sexual orientation or preference, and religious or political beliefs. It has to be a direct persecution, he said. Asylum doesnt exist for those fleeing or traveling for economic reasons or due to general violence where they live. Asylum is determined by the courts, and it varies depending on the case. Miranda said although work permits arent necessarily granted, people whose case are making their way through the courts can request one. But they cant get any government aid, he said. The CBP One app will continue to function as the way to set up appointments for initial interviews and screenings. These appointments allow migrants to enter the U.S. at ports of entry to begin their asylum claims. Visit the BorderReport.com homepage for the latest exclusive stories and breaking news about issues along the U.S.-Mexico border If they can prove they have a credible case, they are allowed to stay north of the border and given court dates to start the legal case. Miranda said unless a judge grants asylum, those who unlawfully cross the border between ports of entry will not qualify for work permits and will not receive government assistance or access to public-help programs. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. Over the past day, 91 combat clashes occurred at the front, with the Russians launching 49 airstrikes and 52 attacks from multiple-launch rocket systems. Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook; information as of 18:00 on 9 February Quote: "During the day, the Air Force of Ukraines Armed Forces targeted five clusters of enemy personnel, weapons, and military equipment. Units of Rocket Forces hit two clusters of personnel, weapons, and military equipment, as well as two command points and two enemy ammunition storage points." Details: On the Kupiansk front, Ukraines forces repelled 10 attacks near Synkivka and Ivanivka in Kharkiv Oblast, where the Russians attempted in vain to break through Ukrainian defences. On the Lyman front, Ukrainian troops repelled eight attacks near the settlements of Bilohorivka in Luhansk Oblast, as well as Terny and Yampolivka in Donetsk Oblast, where the Russian forces attempted to break through Ukraines defences with the help of aviation. On the Bakhmut front, the Armed Forces of Ukraine repelled 18 attacks on the settlements of Bohdanivka, Ivanivske, and Klischiivka, Donetsk Oblast, where the Russian army failed to improve their tactical situation. On the Avdiivka front, Ukrainian defenders repelled 17 attacks in and around Novobakhmutivka and Avdiivka, as well as 10 more attacks near Pervomaiske and Nevelske, Donetsk Oblast, where the Russians attempted to break through Ukrainian defences. On the Marinka front, Ukraines forces continue to hold back the Russians in the vicinity of Novomykhailivka, Donetsk Oblast, where the Russian troops attempted 12 times to improve the tactical situation with air support. On the Shakhtarsk front, Ukrainian units repelled two Russian attacks south of the Zolota Nyva in Donetsk Oblast, as well as north of Pryiutne, Zaporizhzhia Oblast. On the Zaporizhzhia front, the Armed Forces of Ukraine repelled two attacks west of Novopokrovka and in the area of Robotyne, Zaporizhzhia Oblast, where the Russians attempted to break through the defences of Ukrainian troops with the assistance of aviation. The Russians remain determined to dislodge Ukrainian units from the established bridgeheads on the left bank of Dnipro in the area of responsibility of the Odesa Operational Strategic Group on the Kherson front. Throughout the day, four unsuccessful attempts were made to storm Ukrainian troops' positions. Support UP or become our patron! Cubas north coast is dealing with flooded streets, high winds, and power outages after a strong cold front hit the country. Whats happening? Temperatures dropped to 55 degrees Fahrenheit (12 degrees Celsius) in Cuba on Tuesday, significantly cooler than the average daytime temperature of 71 F (28 C) in February, according to Weather and Climate. With that cold weather came wind gusts up to 62 mph, according to Reuters, and Havanas streets were submerged by seawater as massive waves struck the coastline. At dawn, the water flowed through some city streets like coastal rivers, moving jellyfish, seaweed and flotsam several blocks landward, Reuters reported. Why is this concerning? The city is vulnerable to the effects of intense storms, with fears that it and other low-lying areas could soon disappear if sea levels continue to rise as a result of global heating. Reuters cited the U.N. Development Programme, which said 2.2 million inhabitants are at risk from rising water levels. Jaqueline Dalardes, who lives in Havana, issued a stark observation to Reuters while braving the weather. This really is something new, she said. The climate has changed and nature has changed due to human beings aggression against nature. This is the answer to what were experiencing today, not only in Cuba but in all countries. Were not used to this kind of cold. Global heating is leading to longer and more intense storms, and Cuba is likely to experience more of these deadly weather events if temperatures worldwide continue to rise. What can be done about the risks Cuba is facing? The island nation is at serious risk, not only from rising water but also from an increase in temperature and a decrease in precipitation. According to the World Banks Climate Change Knowledge Portal, agriculture, forestry, and tourism could be hit hard, and those areas are essential for the countrys economy. Meanwhile, the availability of freshwater is also a concern. With help from UNESCO, the Cuban government is looking to mitigate the impact of drought and flooding that affects these supplies. As part of this strategy, the country is set to use electric cars in the nationwide water resources management system because dirty-fuel-powered cars are a notable producer of planet-warming pollution. It might seem counterintuitive to highlight the cold in Cuba when talking about global heating, but the latter phenomenon doesnt always mean hotter weather. A warming Arctic could be responsible for cold-weather events elsewhere, a study in Journal Science, summarized by the World Economic Forum, detailed. Thats why, no matter where in the world you are, reducing the production of pollution that traps heat in the atmosphere is essential. Driving an electric car is one way to help, but eating more plant-based meals can reduce the pollution caused by agricultural meat production, while embracing sustainable power sources, such as wind and solar, can significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Join our free newsletter for cool news and cool tips that make it easy to help yourself while helping the planet. Jana May was at a barbecue dinner for a local politician in Lubbock, Texas, in 2020 when she first heard about the wave of ironclad abortion laws being pushed in the state. At the time, May, then president of the High Plains Republican women, had no idea what a sanctuary city was until a fellow dinner guest explained to her that movement was afoot to get one established in Lubbock. "When he did, I mean, the hairs on the back of my neck stood up," May, 67, said. Abortion expansion or abolition: What 51 years of Roe v. Wade means today Across the country, 67 cities and seven counties have passed so-called "sanctuary cities for the unborn" ordinances local laws that seek to ban abortions in the area. The means vary by community, with some blocking the shipment of drugs used to perform an abortion and others making it punishable to perform or aid in an abortion on their residents. Lubbock, a town in northwest Texas of about 260,000 people, passed their own ordinance by citywide vote in 2021, a year after Mays dinner conversation. The Lone Star State has been the testing ground for conservative efforts to scale back abortion access nationwide. And in the aftermath of the Supreme Courts decision nearly two years ago reversing the federal right to an abortion, these ordinances have spread beyond Texas, into neighboring states like New Mexico and even liberal strongholds like Illinois. The debate over abortion rights stands to be a key issue in this years elections, whether on the ballot or the top of voters minds. As local and legal challenges mount, the battles have already begun in cities and towns across America. May returned home that evening back in 2020 to Amarillo, Texas, about 120 miles straight north of Lubbock. She remembers crying the whole way. I knew that God was telling me that I needed to bring it to Amarillo, May said. She started the push for an ordinance in the town that had been her home since 1976 by gathering community support. May also got in touch with east Texas pastor and prominent anti-abortion activist Mark Lee Dickson, inviting him to Amarillo. Anti-abortion activist Mark Lee Dickson stands in front of the prohibit abortion trafficking billboard, Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024, in Amarillo, Texas. (Via OlyDrop) As a leader of the sanctuary city movement, Dickson has traveled to areas across Texas and the country since 2019, after he helped push through the first of these ordinances in Waskom, Texas, a small town of 2,000 sitting on the Louisiana border. The end goal, he said: abolishing abortion in all 50 states. From the beginning, I have said that this is not going away. And it's just apparent that this is all coming to a head, he said. Coming to a head in Amarillo May and Dickson's fight to pass an ordinance in Amarillo has been years in the making and is still ongoing. After multiple city council meetings that failed to produce any concrete legislation, a group of Amarillo citizens started a petition to force a council vote or get the ordinance on the ballot for voters to decide. The group has until April to gather just over 5,500 signatures. With the help of several churches in the area, Dickson and May say they are confident they have the community's support. Opponents say the ordinance has no place in Amarillo. This is a policy that not only no one needs, but no one asked for, and that's being astroturfed from out of town extremists," said Rachel O'Leary Carmona, executive director of Women's March and an Amarillo resident since 2021. Pro-abortion activist Rachel O'Leary Carmona stands in downtown Amarillo, Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024, in Amarillo, Texas. (Via OlyDrop) Carmona and other local activists like Lindsay London, one of six Amarillo Reproductive Freedom Alliance leaders, have led the response against the ordinance, meeting with the city leaders and speaking at public meetings. "This represents a small percentage of a very extreme set of viewpoints. And it's not what the public truly wants," London said of the initiative. 'Litmus test' Amarillo stands to be a "litmus test" for the sanctuary city movement, said Mary Ziegler, professor at the University of California, Davis School of Law. A conservative city of about 200,000 at the center of the rural Texas Panhandle, Amarillo might appear an easy target for anti-abortion efforts. In the most simple terms possible, you could say that Amarillo is in the reddest part of the reddest state in the country," O'Leary Carmona said. "And if you didn't scratch any further than that, I think that's just where the matter would lie." Abortion as an issue has crossed party lines, including in Ohio, where voters turned out last November in favor of a ballot measure to enshrine abortion access in the red state's constitution. Texas has some of the country's strictest abortion laws on the books, banning the procedure from the moment of conception with few exceptions for the life of the mother. Still, the sanctuary city ordinance in Amarillo which Dickson and May say would close remaining "loopholes" in state laws risks rubbing locals the wrong way, London said. Amarillo is very much a place that's kind of like the cornerstone Texas mentality: We don't like being told what to do," she said. "We don't want outsiders coming in trying to meddle in our business. And (Dickson) very much has his eyes set on Amarillo as a trophy. Pro-abortion activist Lindsay London stands in downtown Amarillo, Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024, in Amarillo, Texas. (Via OlyDrop) Dickson, 38, has made Amarillo his current home base and told USA TODAY he plans to be in the city until the ordinance passes. But he said the panhandle town is just "part of the puzzle" and that he's already looking to future places, in Texas as well as other states, from California to Virginia. We see abortion as an evil ... And we want to see it abolished from coast to coast," Dickson said. Getting abortion back in front of the Supreme Court Dicksons local law movement relies on the backing of federal statutes. This includes the 1873 Comstock Act, which prohibits mailing "lewd or lascivious" material, including abortion drugs and equipment. Activists like Dickson argue the nineteenth century obscenity law is a de facto federal abortion ban that just needs enforcing. And referring to it and other federal acts in the local ordinances, Ziegler said, creates the opportunity for the Supreme Court to potentially weigh in. Basically, they want to lob as many balls toward the Court in that effort as possible," Ziegler said. Each ordinance they pass, they think is an opportunity for the Court to draw that conclusion. Anti-abortion activist Mark Lee Dickson sits in his car in front of the prohibit abortion trafficking billboard, Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024, in Amarillo, Texas. (Via OlyDrop) Ziegler says the ordinances are a "win, win" for Dickson and other anti-abortion advocates. While the laws generally serve to deter people from seeking an abortion in the first place, if someone were to go through with the procedure in violation of the ordinance, they create the possibility for an escalating legal battle. "Now that there is no federal right to choose abortion, the ordinances have become places where you're seeing experiments toward the recognition of a nationwide ban on abortion," Ziegler said. In June, 2022, the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, the landmark 1973 case that guaranteed the right to an abortion. Dickson called it inevitable that the abortion debate wind up back in front of the nations highest court, where a conservative majority sits. Or by Trump The anti-abortion movement also has eyes on the White House and former Republican President Donald Trump. The Heritage Foundation a conservative think tank that includes the Trump administrations Office of Civil Rights Director Roger Severino has proposed the former president, if reelected this November, force the issue through executive order. Fellow Trump ally Gene Hamilton has made similar suggestions, calling for the next conservative administration to use the Comstock Act to enforce a federal ban. It's Trump proxies from Trump World saying this stuff, Ziegler said. I think that tells you a lot, right. It's not just random, anti-abortion groups that are not close to Trump. These are people who have had Trump's ear, who are really close to him, saying that this is what he should do." Someone else who has Trump's ear, Jonathan Mitchell has worked closely with Dickson to craft the local ordinances. More recently, he represented the former president before the Supreme Court in Trump's challenge to stay on the Colorado ballot. Whether by the Supreme Court or presidency, proponents for a federal ban see their routes to bypass Congress and state governments, Ziegler said. You don't need voters to agree with you, Ziegler said. They're essentially looking to win in places where they have the home field advantage. Fight spreads beyond Texas Dickson has found that home field advantage outside the Lone Star State, too. A thousand miles from the Texas Panhandle, in the blue state of Illinois, residents of Danville gathered last May for what turned into an hours-long city council meeting and debate over their own sanctuary city ordinance. Austin Lazzell was one of many speakers that night. A 29-year-old HVAC technician and lifelong Danville resident, Lazzell spoke in favor of the ordinance, which came as a response to a new abortion clinic moving into town. Lazzell told the story of the birth of his third daughter, during which he said he and his wife drove 45 minutes through a blizzard in the early morning hours to reach a hospital in Champaign, Illinois, since there was nowhere in Danville to deliver a baby. My critique on having the abortion clinic brought to our area: We're a border city in the state ... anybody in Indiana that can't have that in that state would be rushing over here purely just to kill their unborn child in a city in which we at the time weren't even able to have a child born, said Lazzell. Clinic owner, LaDonna Prince, said when she was looking for a location for her second abortion clinic, Affirmative Care Solutions, Danvilles proximity to the Indiana border was exactly what drew her to the town. LaDonna Prince is the owner of an abortion clinic that is currently in a state of rebuild after a man drove his car into the building, damaging the side and rear. Photo taken, Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2024, in Danville, Ill. Intending to serve women in both states, Prince said she made the move to Danville anticipating that her first operation, Clinic for Women in Indianapolis, might be forced to close. The thought process behind this, when it started, was knowing that Indiana's a red state and that things probably were not going to go our way, Prince said. And as it turned out, we were correct. Indiana enacted a near-total abortion ban in August. 'Unenforceable': Debate continues past ordinance passage Back in Danville, Lazzell said he felt like residents opinions on the ordinance split right down the middle which is exactly how the council's vote fell last May. The measure, which prohibits the shipment of abortion drugs and tools in the city, eventually passed 8-7, with Mayor Rickey Williams Jr. casting the tiebreak vote. With that, Danville became the most recent city to pass a sanctuary city ordinance. But the city faced pushback from entities, including the ACLU of Illinois, who say the move clearly violates state law. Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker made abortion legal in the state by signing the 2019 Reproductive Health Act. Meanwhile, Prince's clinic the legislation's original target is not operational yet, after an Illinois man drove his car into the building, causing extensive structural damage. The assailant, Philip Buyno, was sentenced Tuesday to five years in prison for the attack. LaDonna Prince is the owner of an abortion clinic that is currently in a state of rebuild after a man drove his car into the building, damaging the side and rear. Photo taken, Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2024, in Danville, Ill. Prince said they still don't have an expected start date but hope to open as soon as possible. And when they do, she said they won't be deterred by the city councils decision. "The ordinance is on the books, it's unenforceable, Prince said. And I have no problem with them having an unenforceable law on their books indefinitely, if that's what they want to do." This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Cities targeted with local abortion bans in post-Roe movement China's Xinjiang immersed in festive atmosphere of Spring Festival Xinhua) 09:03, February 09, 2024 This photo shows a night view of the ancient city of Kashgar, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Feb. 4, 2024. With red lanterns decorated on streets, people can feel the festive atmosphere of the Spring Festival, or the Chinese Lunar New Year, in the ancient city of Kashgar. (Photo by Cai Zengle/Xinhua) People visit the ancient city of Kashgar, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Feb. 5, 2024. With red lanterns decorated on streets, people can feel the festive atmosphere of the Spring Festival, or the Chinese Lunar New Year, in the ancient city of Kashgar. (Photo by Cai Zengle/Xinhua) People pose for photos in the ancient city of Kashgar, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Feb. 4, 2024. With red lanterns decorated on streets, people can feel the festive atmosphere of the Spring Festival, or the Chinese Lunar New Year, in the ancient city of Kashgar. (Photo by Cai Zengle/Xinhua) People visit a night market in the ancient city of Kashgar, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Feb. 4, 2024. With red lanterns decorated on streets, people can feel the festive atmosphere of the Spring Festival, or the Chinese Lunar New Year, in the ancient city of Kashgar. (Photo by Cai Zengle/Xinhua) Children eat snacks at a night market in the ancient city of Kashgar, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Feb. 4, 2024. With red lanterns decorated on streets, people can feel the festive atmosphere of the Spring Festival, or the Chinese Lunar New Year, in the ancient city of Kashgar. (Photo by Cai Zengle/Xinhua) People visit a night market in the ancient city of Kashgar, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Feb. 5, 2024. With red lanterns decorated on streets, people can feel the festive atmosphere of the Spring Festival, or the Chinese Lunar New Year, in the ancient city of Kashgar. (Photo by Cai Zengle/Xinhua) A child eats cotton candy at a night market in the ancient city of Kashgar, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Feb. 4, 2024. With red lanterns decorated on streets, people can feel the festive atmosphere of the Spring Festival, or the Chinese Lunar New Year, in the ancient city of Kashgar. (Photo by Cai Zengle/Xinhua) Children play in the ancient city of Kashgar, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Feb. 5, 2024. With red lanterns decorated on streets, people can feel the festive atmosphere of the Spring Festival, or the Chinese Lunar New Year, in the ancient city of Kashgar. (Photo by Cai Zengle/Xinhua) Children eat snacks at a night market in the ancient city of Kashgar, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Feb. 4, 2024. With red lanterns decorated on streets, people can feel the festive atmosphere of the Spring Festival, or the Chinese Lunar New Year, in the ancient city of Kashgar. (Photo by Cai Zengle/Xinhua) (Web editor: Cai Hairuo, Zhong Wenxing) The Church of Pakistan has announced its commitment to take action on climate change in line with the Lambeth Declaration, reiterating that the climate emergency was not just a physical crisis, but also a spiritual one. The Church of Pakistan fully agrees with the Lambeth Call that humanity needs a spiritual and cultural transformation to protect our environment. There is still a chance to turn the tide, but all nations and communities need to act together now to save our planet, which is our common home, said Church of Pakistans Moderator/President Bishop Dr Azad Marshall. Bishop Marshall was addressing a partners meeting on climate action at the Church of Pakistans Diocese of Raiwand on Sunday. Archbishop Ian Ernest, the Archbishop of Canterburys Special Representative to the Holy See and Director of the Anglican Center Rome, who was in Pakistan on a three-day visit from Feb 2-4 also participated in the moot. The moderator bishop emphasized the importance of instilling a spirit of stewardship, as embodied by the wisdom of the Christian tradition, to change the mindset towards the natural world. Bishop Marshall noted with concern that though Pakistan was one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world, it was unfortunate that it was also the least funded to effectively combat the crisis. Changing seasonal weather patterns, rising temperatures, variability of monsoons, and melting of glaciers in the north compounded with recurrent extreme weather events and natural disasters are just some of the effects of climate change that Pakistan has been forced to contend with in recent years. Their impact has also been felt among the socially marginalized Christian community, creating an increasing sense of urgency among churches. Pakistan produces less than 1 percent of the worlds carbon footprint yet is among the countries suffering the biggest consequences of climate change. According to the Global Climate Risk Index, Pakistan is currently the fifth most climate-vulnerable country in the world, reportedly having lost nearly ten thousand lives and suffering economic losses worth billions of dollars due to climate change throughout the years 1999 to 2022. We need to act together to protect, restore, and safeguard the environment for ourselves and our future generations, he said. The Church of Pakistan, comprising eight dioceses and a network of over 400 churches, has pledged to make efforts to reduce its carbon footprint, promote environmental education and awareness, support climate-resilient development and disaster risk reduction, and advocate for solidarity with the most vulnerable communities. It is the first Protestant denomination in Pakistan to do so, with other church groups expected to follow in the near future. Bishop Marshall said that Idaara Ibadat Trust, a faith-based institution working on adult literacy under his patronage, was also poised to take on the new challenge. Idaara Ibadat runs over 500 literacy centres across Pakistan and we have trained more than half a million people in literacy skills over the last 40 years. The vast networks we have created in communities across Pakistan will give impetus to the Church of Pakistans endeavours on raising awareness on the environmental challenges, he said. Lauding the Church of Pakistans initiative on climate action, Archbishop Ian Ernest said he was deeply impressed by the realisation in the church for collaborating with church partners and faith-based institutions to bring about the much-needed change by raising awareness and collective action. He commended the Church of Pakistans moderator bishop for taking the Lambeth Calls seriously and for enabling partnerships so that people could be informed not only to be aware of these problems but to act, to reflect about our responsibility because we share a common task of bringing about the values of the Kingdom. I havent heard about the problems in Pakistan, so I think its good for you to raise your voices and to let the world know about it, he said. The archbishop said that the environment of crisis was not something that comes only as an issue to deal with. I think its a God-given opportunity for us to be able to change the mentality of our people and to bring about the values of the Kingdom where respect for Gods creation and respect for the other are of crucial importance. Without respecting what God has given us so freely, it would be difficult for us to be instruments of grace in the world, he concluded. Earlier, representatives of Church of Pakistans development partner organisations Pak Mission Society (PMS) and Idaara Ibadat Trust shared an overview of the distressing environmental situation in Pakistan and called for cohesive action to meet the climate challenges. Adeel Rehmat, the chief executive officer of PMS, said that they supported Bishop Marshalls vision to see the church at the forefront of the climate action campaign. We believe that the church is a major influencer and it has a pivotal role in raising awareness on climate justice. Together with the Church of Pakistan, PMS is envisioning a Green Ecumenical Movement in Pakistan which will focus on all four components of the Lambeth Call: Awareness, Attitude, Action and Advocacy, said Rehmat. The development expert said that PMS was looking to collaborate with the CoP in various projects, including regenerative farming, capacity building of the youth, establishing model clean areas, introducing climate curriculum developed by technical experts in schools and other institutions administered by the CoP, and establishing green church models, etc. We are also aiming to jointly advocate for Pakistan at COP-29 and all other relevant forums, he said. The Church of Pakistans initiative is part of a wider movement of faith-based organisations and leaders who are taking a stand on climate change, as they see the earth as a beautiful gift and a sacred trust from God. Other faith groups, such as Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus, Sikhs, Jews, and Bahais, have also issued statements and launched campaigns on climate change. The new Oscar will be part of the 98th Academy Awards, with 2025 films the first eligible for the honor. The board of governors of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has established a new award for the 2026 Oscars. The academy announced on Thursday that it has created the Academy Award for achievement in casting, which will first be awarded at the 98th Oscars in 2026, with films from 2025 eligible. The award will recognize casting directors, whose contributions to film have often been overlooked during award season. Oscar statuettes are lined up backstage at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has created an award for casting, to be presented in 2026. (Photo: Matt Sayles/Invision/AP, File) Casting directors play an essential role in filmmaking, and as the Academy evolves, we are proud to add casting to the disciplines that we recognize and celebrate, the academys CEO, Bill Kramer, and its president, Janet Yang, said in a press release. We congratulate our Casting Directors Branch members on this exciting milestone and for their commitment and diligence throughout this process. Casting Directors Branch governors Richard Hicks, Kim Taylor-Coleman and Debra Zane also released a statement, expressing their gratitude and excitement at an award being created for their division. There are currently 160 members of the casting branch, which was created in July 2013. On behalf of the members of the Casting Directors Branch, wed like to thank the Board of Governors, the Awards Committee and Academy leadership for their support, the governors said in press release. This award is a deserved acknowledgment of our casting directors exceptional talents and a testament to the dedicated efforts of our branch. The academy will announce category rules for eligibility and voting for the inaugural award in April 2025, when the organization releases the complete 98th Academy Awards rules. It is not yet known how the award will be presented, but the academy shared that the presentation will be determined by its board of governors and administrative leadership. Over 10,500 film industry artists and leaders are members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. The academy implemented several new rules in 2024 to increase diversity among its nominations, including requiring films to meet two of four diversity standards to be eligible for a best-picture nomination, according to The New York Times. Never miss a beat: Get our daily stories straight to your inbox with theGrios newsletter. The post Academy of Motion Pictures announces new casting award for 2026 Oscars appeared first on TheGrio. Could interest in what happened to the Washington Bridge be a catalyst for changes to state open-records law that make it easier for the public to find out what state and local governments are doing? Press-freedom and good-government groups hope so, and on Thursday unveiled a new bill aimed at freeing public documents from transparency-shy officials. "As we have seen with the Washington Bridge closure, access to public documents is crucial for the public to stay informed about how our state is run and managed," said Rep. Patricia Serpa, D-West Warwick, the House sponsor of the bill. "Times change, and so must our laws that grant the public the ability to find out what is going on in Rhode Island." How old is RI's public-access law, and how would it change? The bill would make dozens of changes to Rhode Island's Access to Public Records Act, much of which dates back to its enactment in 1978. The changes include making public a broad range of records: correspondence to elected officials, footage captured on police body cameras, some 911 calls, the owners of low-numbered license plates, and street traffic crash data. It would also have Rhode Island join other states where the final reports of police-misconduct investigations are public. In addition to expanding the types of documents the public can access, the bill would also reduce the price that government bodies routinely charge for members of the press and public to get records. Copying charges would be sliced from 15 cents to 5 cents per page under the bill, and officials would have to double the amount of free search time requesters would get to two hours. Free redaction time would be similarly doubled. What are the chances the public-records access reforms will pass? Public-records reform is a perennial issue, and it is unclear whether the bill has any chance of overcoming opposition from the government officials who have to comply with the Access to Public Records Act. Gov. Dan McKee's office and the state Police Chief's Association were among those who opposed last year's version, arguing that the changes would impose a costly burden that would ultimately be borne by taxpayers. To try to soften some of that opposition, members of AccessRI, a coalition of groups pushing for records reform, met with representatives of state agencies and police chiefs to hear their concerns. Steve Brown, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Rhode Island, said of the 47 changes made to last year's version of the bill, 21 were based on suggestions from those who had found the bill burdensome. How did the Washington Bridge make records access an issue? Public-records law jumped into the news last week when the state Department of Transportation charged some media organizations for emails documenting how structural problems with the Washington Bridge were discovered in December. "It's a perfect example of something that is in the public interest," John Marion Jr., executive director of Common Cause Rhode Island, said Thursday about the Washington Bridge emails. The bill would allow someone to request that search charges be waived directly to the agency with the records instead of having to go to Superior Court. The Providence Streets Coalition joined the effort to expand access to public records in response to the DOT withholding traffic crash information provided in other states. "It goes back to, the public can only trust government when they know what's going on," said Sen. Louis DiPalma, longtime Senate sponsor of records-reform bills. McKee spokeswoman Andrea Palagi said the "governors office looks forward to reviewing the details of this legislation." This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Will Washington Bridge shutdown make the case for public-records reform? ZANESVILLE Hes doing what he always wanted to do. Starting when I was probably 12 or 13, recalled Patrick Pugh, I would walk to my dads jewelry store every day after school and sweep walks and do odd jobs. I always wanted to do what my dad did. I wasnt sure what path to take at the time, but eventually I found myself going that direction. In my teens I would watch my dad and brothers work in the family business, he continued. They would let me play with old watches and I eventually learned to repair jewelry. Gemstones fascinated me at the time as well. Patrick Pugh is owner and gemologist at the longstanding family business, Pugh's Diamond Jewelers. Today, Pugh is owner and gemologist at the longstanding family business, Pugh's Diamond Jewelers. My father, he said, started Pugh Jewelers in 1949 with my mother and $500 in his pocket, and a little help from his former employer. Eventually my two brothers and sister-in-law came into the business, and we expanded and moved twice and renamed the jewelry store Pughs Diamond Jewelers to emphasize our specialty diamonds. Pughs Diamond Jewelers is one of the largest family-owned jewelry stores in Ohio, he added. Our 75th anniversary is in October. Our success is attributed to our commitment to education, our values, great staff and treating everyone with fairness and respect and fair pricing. Pugh, 60, grew up in Zanesville, graduated from Bishop Rosecrans High School in 1981, attended Ashland University, then in 1985 he earned the title graduate gemologist from the Gemological Institute of America, and in 1990 certified gemologist appraiser from the American Gem Society. He started working at the family business in 1988. Angie Jordan has been a customer and business associate since 2009. Patricks love and commitment to what his father birthed 75 years ago is commendable, assessed Jordan. Im just one of those fortunate individuals whos doing what he always wanted to do, Pugh responded. Im blessed to really enjoy coming to the office and taking on new challenges. Ive had my ups and downs in life and business, but I wouldnt change anything for the world. Pughs Diamond Jewelers is located at 1202 Brandywine Blvd. For more information, call 740-452-8464 or log on www.pughsdiamonds.com. 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 trnews@zanesvilletimesrecorder.com. This article originally appeared on Zanesville Times Recorder: Patrick Pugh is current owner of Pugh's Diamond Jewelers in Zanesville SAN DIEGO (Border Report) Angela Meraz Leon owned and operated a hair salon in the border city of Tecate about 30 miles east of Tijuana, she was also an activist and the head of a citizens group that searched for missing people. On Thursday afternoon, a man walked into her business and shot her at close range. Witnesses told police the gunman shot Meraz Leon several times and then left in a black Audi that was parked outside. The vehicle was found later a short distance away, it had been set on fire. Those who knew her say she was threatened several weeks ago on a social media site by a cartel, accusing Meraz Leon of passing on misinformation about it. Police say they have a few leads in the case and are looking into several theories surrounding the murder. Investigators told reporters Thursday night they are not ruling out anything including previous relationships, her known associates with organized crime and her work searching for missing people. They also said her ex-partner, father to her son, is in prison for murder and connections to the Cartel Jalisco Nueva Generacion, a bitter rival of the Sinaloa cartel. Family members say she became an activist for missing people when her brother and sister-in-law went missing in June 2018. Their whereabouts remain a mystery. Meraz Leon had publicly accused the Sinaloa cartel for their disappearance. Other public groups who also search for missing people are demanding that Baja Californias Attorney General find the people responsible. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. GENEVA (Reuters) - Any Israeli military advance into southern Gaza's Rafah area could cause mass deaths among the more than a million Palestinians trapped there, with humanitarian aid in danger of collapse, aid workers said on Friday. Israel has threatened to advance from Khan Younis, Gaza's main southern city, to Rafah, where the population has increased five-fold as people have fled bombardment, often under evacuation orders, since Israel began its assault on Gaza's ruling Hamas movement. Some 1.5 million people are now jammed into filthy, overcrowded shelters or on the street in a patch of land hemmed in by Egyptian and Israeli border fences and the Mediterranean Sea as well as Israeli forces. Doctors and aid workers are struggling to supply even basic aid and stop the spread of disease. "No war can be allowed in a gigantic refugee camp," said Jan Egeland, Secretary-General of the Norwegian Refugee Council, warning of a "bloodbath" if Israeli operations expand there. "Expanded hostilities in Rafah could collapse the humanitarian response," NRC added in a statement. Reuters has in recent days filmed the funerals of civilians killed in recent days by Israeli strikes. Israel says it takes steps to avoid harming civilians and accuses Hamas militants of hiding among them, even in shelters - something Hamas denies. Some 28,000 Palestinians have been confirmed killed, according to the Gaza health ministry, in a war triggered on Oct. 7 when Hamas militants killed 1,200 people and seized 253 hostages in Israel, according to Israeli tallies. A doctor who left Gaza last week described Rafah as a "closed jail" with faecal matter running through streets so crowded that there is barely space for medics' vehicles to pass. "If the same bombs used in Khan Younis were used in Rafah, it would be at least a doubling or tripling of the toll because it's so densely populated," said Dr Santosh Kumar. The development charity ActionAid said some people were resorting to eating grass. "Every single person in Gaza is now hungry, and people have just 1.5 to 2 litres of unsafe water per day to meet all their needs," its statement said. Humanitarian agencies say they cannot move people to safer areas because Israeli troops are positioned to the north, and that the aid that is allowed into the enclave is not nearly enough to go around. "All our shelters are overflowing and cannot take any more people," said Juliette Touma, spokesperson for the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees. (Reporting by Emma Farge; Editing by Kevin Liffey) Photo: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook The Russians have attacked Ukraine with 16 Shahed-136/131 UAVs on the night of 8-9 February. Ukrainian air defence has managed to destroy 10 of them. Source: Ukraines Air Force on Telegram Quote: "As a result of the combat work, 10 Shahed drones were destroyed within Mykolaiv, Kherson and Kharkiv oblasts." Details: The Russians launched drones from Cape Chauda (temporarily occupied Crimea) and Kursk Oblast (Russia). Anti-aircraft units and mobile fire groups of the Air Force and the rest of Defence Forces were involved in repelling the air attack. Background: Russian forces attacked Kharkiv Oblast with Shahed kamikaze drones on the night of 8-9 February. Civilian infrastructure facilities in Zmiiv hromada were on fire and one person was injured (an administrative unit designating a village, several villages, or a town, and their adjacent territories ed.). Support UP or become our patron! Six years ago, Greg and Teresa Almond were left destitute and living in a utility shed after sheriff's deputies in Randolph County, Alabama, illegally raided their house and seized their savings over a misdemeanor drug crime. Now the Almonds will be made partly whole, at least financially. Last month, a jury in their federal civil rights lawsuit awarded the couple $1 million in punitive and compensatory damages after trial testimony showed the deputies never got a warrant to search the Almonds' property. The Randolph County Sheriff's Department's 2018 raid on the Almonds' house, first reported by the Alabama Appleseed Center for Law and Justice, exemplified the worst aspects of the war on drugs and civil asset forfeiturea practice that allows police to seize property when it's suspected of being connected to criminal activity. On January 31, 2018, a Randolph County sheriff's deputy showed up at Greg and Teresa Almond's house in Woodland, Alabama, to serve Greg court papers in a civil matter. The deputy reported that he smelled marijuana. A county drug task force returned two hours later, busted down the Almonds' front door, threw a flash-bang grenade at Greg Almond's feet, detained the couple at gunpoint, and ransacked their house. The search only turned up $50 or less of marijuana, which the Almonds' adult son tried in vain to claim as his, and a single sleeping pill outside of a prescription bottle with Greg's name on it. Using the paltry amount of narcotics as justification, deputies seized roughly $8,000 in cash, along with dozens of firearms and other valuables, under Alabama's civil asset forfeiture laws. The deputies took the money right out of his wallet, Greg Almond told Reason in 2019. More than a year after the initial raid, the Almonds were indicted on two misdemeanor charges: unlawful possession of marijuana for personal use and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, thus violating "the peace and dignity of Alabama." However, prosecutors dropped the charges, and a judge ordered their property to be returned. The Almonds filed a federal civil rights lawsuit in 2019 alleging that the Randolph County Sheriff's Department used excessive force; stole, lost, or failed to inventory their missing property; and violated their constitutional protections against unreasonable searches and seizures, as well as their right to due process. That was in addition to the other injuries they suffered. As a result of the raid and arrest, the Almonds' missed a crucial deadline to refinance loans on their farm and lost their house. Their reputation was tarnished, and their ability to earn a living was practically destroyed. What's more, depositions and trial testimony showed that the deputies never obtained an official search warrant from a judge for the raid. U.S. District Judge R. Austin Huffaker, a Trump appointee, wrote that because of the undisputed testimony, there was no question whether the Almonds' Fourth Amendment rights were violated. They had been, and no reasonable jury could find otherwise. Nor did the deputies' assertions that they had acted in good faith hold any weight. "There was no warrant, telephonic or written, and thus there was nothing upon which Walker could rely in good faith," Huffaker wrote. "In other words, because Defendant Walker knew that he did not have a warrant at the time of the incident, the good faith exception does not apply." "And secondly, as a matter of law," Huffaker continued, "given the undisputed facts concerning the non-existence of a warrant, it was objectively unreasonable for an experienced law enforcement officer to believe that he could search an occupied home when no warrant existed, when no judge told him that he had a warrant, when he was merely told that he had enough for a warrant, and when none of the formalities or requirements associated with a telephonic or written warrant were followed." A 2018 report by the Southern Poverty Law Center and the Alabama Appleseed Center for Law and Justice found that Alabama law enforcement raked in roughly $2.2 million through civil asset forfeiture in 2015. In a quarter of those cases, no criminal charges were filed. In half of all asset forfeiture cases that year, the amount of cash was $1,372 or lesstoo little for most people to bother hiring a lawyer to recover. Cases like these led Alabama lawmakers to add transparency requirements in 2019 to the state's asset forfeiture laws, which ranked among the most aggressive and unchecked in the U.S. But the Almonds will never look at law enforcement the same way. "It's made me distrust law enforcement on every level," Greg Almond told Reason in 2019. "Going down the road I can see a police or state trooper, not that I'm doing anything wrong, and it's kind of like my adrenaline goes up. My heart just pounds seeing them." The Randolph County Sheriff's Office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The post An Alabama Couple's Lives Were Upended by an Unconstitutional Police Raid. A Jury Awarded Them $1 Million. appeared first on Reason.com. A Christian in the United Kingdom vowed to be jailed rather than pay costs after a judge on Feb. 2 found him guilty of breaching a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) for holding up a Bible verse sign near an abortion clinic. District Judge Kathryn Verghis found 72-year-old Stephen Green of South Wales guilty in Uxbridge Magistrates Court in West London, according to the Christian Legal Centre. She gave him a one-year conditional discharge and ordered him to pay costs of 2,400 pounds (USD3,029) and a victim surcharge of 26 pounds (USD33). Green on Feb. 6, 2023 held up a sign outside the MSI Reproductive Choices Clinic in Mattock Lane PSBO Zone in Ealing, West London, quoting Psalm 139:13: For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mothers womb. The King James Versions reigns is translated in the English Standard Version as inward parts. The Christian Legal Centre quoted the judge in her ruling as saying, The extract of the Psalm mentioning my mothers womb was an act of protest of abortion. There were less controversial verses you could have chosen to display. I can come to no other conclusion [than] that [the verse] was an act of disapproval [of abortion services]an act prohibited [by the PSPO]. The Christian Legal Centre noted that the judge acknowledged the PSPO interfered with Greens free speech rights under the European Convention, but that the rights of those wanting an abortion outweighed those rights. Greens actions were peaceful, the judge said, according to the Christian Legal Centre, but your actions were not proportionate. I find you guilty as summoned. After the hearing, Green said he would not pay the fine and vowed to appeal to the Supreme Court with the help of the Christian Legal Centre. I have been ordered to pay costs, Green said after the hearing. Frankly, I would rather go to prison than pay this to the state that has banned the Bible. National director of campaign group Christian Voice, Green said the verdict left him no choice but to continue fighting for free speech rights. This verdict is a blow against our God-given freedom of speech and our Lords express instruction to preach the gospel, he said. It upholds a local law which prohibits words found in hundreds of verses of the very Bible presented to King Charles at his coronation on 6th May last year. It leaves the Bible in chains. People are right to be concerned about buffer zone legislation, he said. Buffer zones and this conviction mean that what we can say and what we can display from the Holy Bible are being licensed by the state, he said. To bar Christian witness and to control what people can say is deeply draconian and particularly discriminatory against Christians, while it appears Muslim protesters can say what they like. The guilty verdict was a direct attack on the Bible and free speech, he said. There are serious implications for everyones freedom to express their religion, our freedom of speech and our freedom of assembly, Green said. Andrea Williams, chief executive of the Christian Legal Centre, said the judge terming Psalm 139 an act of protest and meting out punishment was devastating. The effect of the PSPO is to create an area where Bible verses and prayer are outlawed, she said. We will stand with Mr. Green as he seeks justice in this case. When he was charged, police stated that that the incident of him holding the sign lasted an hour. An abortion clinic staff member reported that Green read aloud from a Bible in his hand, and police sent a text message to acknowledge it as an emergency, according to the Christian Legal Centre. Green left the area before officers arrived, but they took statements from staff members, the group stated. Green received a subsequent prosecution notice from Ealing Council stating, On 6th February 2023, you did something you were prohibited from doing in an area which is within the Mattock Lane Safe Zone Public Spaces Protection Order outside the MSI Reproductive Choices Clinic in that you: Protested by engaging in an act of disapproval or attempted act of disapproval with respect to issues related to abortion services, by written means in that you were holding a large sign displaying the text, Psalm 139:13 For thou hast possessed me [sic] reins: thou hast covered me in my mothers womb. The notice continued, Had text displayed on a large sign namely, Psalm 139:13 For thou hast possessed me [sic] reins: thou hast covered me in my mothers womb relating directly or indirectly to the termination of pregnancy. Contrary to Section 67 (1) (a) Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. The councils original legal order of April 10, 2018, under the Act implemented the PSPO following concerns raised that those attending the clinic faced harassment and intimidation from groups positioned outside of it. In the order, the council stated that it had regard to the rights and freedoms set out in the European Convention on Human Rights, i.e., Article 10 relating to right of freedom of expression and Article 11 regarding right of freedom of assembly. The council concluded, however, that the restrictions on such rights and freedoms imposed by this order are lawful, necessary and proportionate. AUSTIN (KXAN) A man died in the hospital after he was hit by a vehicle a few days prior in north Austin last week, the Austin Police Department said in a news release Friday. Around 7:06 a.m., Feb. 1, officers responded to a crash between a pickup truck and a pedestrian, who was identified as Jesse Duer, 39, in the 700 block of West Howard Lane. This embedded content is not available in your region. Duer was taken to the hospital, where he later died Feb. 5, according to police. The driver of the pickup truck remained on the scene when it happened, and police said they were not impaired and cooperating with the investigation. MAP: Where have Austins fatal crashes occurred in 2024? The crash is now being investigated as Austins fifth fatal crash of 2024, which has resulted in five fatalities for the year, APD said. Anyone with any information should contact APDs Vehicular Homicide Unit at (512) 974-8111. You may submit your tip anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program by visiting austincrimestoppers.org or calling (512) 472-8477. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. The first global database to track cases of anti-religion violence became available to the general public in January, providing rights advocates, ministries and others a plethora of information to defend religious freedom and belief. The Violent Incidents Database (VID) tracks types of perpetrators, religion of victims and both non-physical and physical violence, from forcible marriage to killings. Run by the International Institute for Religious Freedom (IIRF) and funded by Global Christian Relief (GCR), it is the first worldwide database of incidents of anti-religion violence, said IIRF International Director Dennis Petri. Its not expert-opinion based, its just recording incidents as they appear in public sources in the media, and thats really the added value of the instrument, because it fills a gap, Petri told Christian Daily International. And of course, its useful for research but also for ministries that work in that space to inform their strategic planning, and also for advocacy and awareness raising, because it really gives you a sense of the scope and the magnitude of different phenomena. Providing searches by country, religion and perpetrator, the database also includes data on arrests, vandalism, sexual harassment, abductions, attacks on houses, attacks on shops, closures of worship venues, attacks on religious buildings and cases of people forced from their homes or countries. Kinds of perpetrators listed are religious groups, organized crime, political parties, religious leaders, ethnic leaders, family, government officials, ideological pressure groups, ordinary civilians, revolutionaries or paramilitary groups and multilateral organizations. Research on religious freedom violations has developed greatly in the past few decades, Petri said, and several Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) data sets have emerged. They all have their value, and theyre getting better, and so thats very helpful, but there was not an event-based database just yet, an instrument that records incidents of religious freedom violations whether violence or non-physical violence, and so thats what we do, Petri said. The IIRF has had a database of religious violence cases in Latin America going back to 2002, but the group launched it as a global database available to the public starting in January. Reception has been very good, Petri told Christian Daily International at the Jan. 30-31 International Religious Freedom in Washinton, D.C. In academia, its already seen as a complement. Unlike some instruments that focus on one religious group, the VID catalogs incidents of violence against eight categories of people, including animists and atheists. There are entire religious traditions that just dont collect data, Petri said. Its very difficult to get together information. And even within Christianity, which does the best job, its still very uneven. So, some countries and some denominations will have more reports than others. About 95 percent of the data is based on public sources, Petri said, and by clicking on the Actions column of a given report, a user can access the URL for the incident source. Its a database that at least, we hope, gives an expression to whats known out there, and of course what we know is not everything that happens, Petri said. It can serve journalists, clearly, to raise awareness, to write context for stories, and it can give access to individual incidents, but mainly it provides the quantification just to give a sense of the scope of these things. The data base is a complement, not a substitute, for more targeted research, filling in the gaps of other efforts, he said. Of course, its very helpful for policymakers, especially people in the human rights fields, because in human rights whats required is a way to prove that what youre talking about is not just isolated incidents or exceptions but part of a pattern, that its structural. And the VID gives that framework, Petri said. Some Arab American leaders signaled clear discontent with what they heard from Biden administration officials in Michigan Thursday after meetings meant to address a key constituencys frustration with US policy around the Israel-Hamas war. Administration officials met with the Michigan leaders in an attempt to quell uproar from key parts of the presidents coalition over his support for Israel in its war against Hamas and his continued reticence to publicly call for a ceasefire. In statements after the meeting, which lasted about two hours, some of those involved vented their frustration with what they heard. A spokesperson for one group said it was met with yet another failure from the Biden administration to call for an immediate ceasefire that saves lives. We asked how Biden can demand our votes when he provides unconditional weapons funding to an Israeli government that pursues a policy of collective punishment against Palestinians, Listen to Michigan spokesperson Abbas Alawieh said in a statement.Bidens funding of [Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahus extreme, far-right government makes a mockery of his claim to fight against the bigotry and authoritarianism of Trump and the MAGA movement. The growing discontent with Bidens Israel policy has led to more than 30 Michigan officials pledging to vote uncommitted in their states Democratic presidential primary on February 27 as part of the Listen to Michigan campaign. Michigan, which Biden narrowly won in his 2020 matchup against then-President Donald Trump, will be a crucial battleground again this November. The Muslim American vote could be especially critical. At least 146,620 of the 200,000 Muslim American voters in Michigan cast a ballot in the 2020 election cycle, according to an analysis by Emgage, an organization aimed at boosting the Muslim American vote. Nearly 28,000 people have been killed during Israeli military operations in Gaza as of Thursday, the territorys Health Ministry reported, and more than 67,317 have been injured since the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel. The meeting was attended by some of Bidens most trusted advisers and policymakers, as well as Michigan leaders including Dearborn Mayor Abdullah Hammoud and deputy Wayne County executive Assad Turfe. Arab American leaders spurned a previous meeting that had been scheduled with Biden campaign officials, not with administration policymakers. Turfe said in a statement that any further meetings would be conditional upon real action. The developments in Gaza will serve as the benchmark for evaluating the effectiveness of the administrations actions, Turfe said. The Biden administration must act swiftly and decisively to end this violence, honoring the principles of justice and human rights. Hammoud said on X that the group remains uncompromising in our values and our demands, including a call for a permanent ceasefire and the end of unrestricted military support for Israel by the United States. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com LITTLE ROCK, Ark. Teams from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission are testing the carcass of a mountain lion found recently by a U.S. Forest Service employee. The employee found a dead mountain lion recently in the Sylamore Wildlife Management Area in Stone County. The animal was moderately decomposed, weighing 118 pounds and approximately 85 inches long, Arkansas Game and Fish officials said. Arkansas Game and Fishing Commission gives progress update on Lake Conway renovations Officials said an examination was performed on the animal at the AGFC Calico Rock office on Thursday. No bullet wound was found, nor was there evidence of it being hit by a car. AGFC State Wildlife Veterinarian Jenn Ballard said the animal had severely worn, broken, and missing teeth and its stomach was empty. AGFC officials said further examination will involve testing for viruses and toxins. Tissue from the animal will also be sent to the Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study at the University of Georgia and the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory at the University of California Davis. Mountain lion sighting confirmed near Amity in southwest Arkansas According to AGFC, this is the second mountain lion carcass found in the state in the past 10 years after a deer hunter shot and killed a male mountain lion in 2014. Officials said that the 148-pound animals DNA showed it had likely originated in the Black Hills breeding population of Wyoming and South Dakota. The 2014 event was the first time a mountain lion had been killed in Arkansas since 1975, according to AGFC records. A mountain lion was spotted on a game camera in Amity last November, one of 23 confirmed mountain lion sightings in the Natural State since 2010. Mountain lion sighting confirmed near Amity in southwest Arkansas Mountain lions are shy and reclusive and have learned to avoid people, officials said, adding that they tend to run away if they see or hear humans and attack only rarely. AGFC asks if anyone has verifiable evidence of a mountain lion sighting to contact their nearest AGFC office. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK. LITTLE ROCK, Ark. Arkansas State Police said they located a child after the father was accused of illegally taking him from Michigan earlier this month. Authorities said that the Oakland County Michigan Sheriffs Office notified Arkansas state troopers that they were tracking a vehicle stolen from their jurisdiction on Saturday, Feb. 3. Sherwood police arrest man accused of attempting to kidnap child at Walmart Special agents said Michigan authorities told them that 40-year-old Daniel Onoh took the vehicle and his son without permission from the childs mother, who has legal custody. ASP officials said they located the vehicle on Interstate 530 near Sweet Home. Troopers said they were aware that the child was in the vehicle so they boxed in the vehicle on Interstate 30 just west of Geyer Springs Road. State troopers said the child was safely removed from the vehicle and reunited with mother. Sherwood community shocked after police arrest man accused of attempting to kidnap child at Walmart Authorities said that Onoh is being held at the Pulaski County Detention on a $150,000 bond. He is facing a charge of felony theft by receiving. Police officials also noted that Onoh has a misdemeanor warrant out of Texas. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK. LITTLE ROCK, Ark. Arkansas State Police troopers were able to prevent two suicide attempts on Tuesday night. ASP officials said troopers interacted with people contemplating suicide in two separate incidents. In both cases, they were able to establish rapport with the suicidal person and persuade them to abandon their attempt and seek counseling, they said. Troopers confiscate marijuana, pills, meth and more during trio of traffic stops The first incident was in Lawrence County. According to ASP officials, the county sheriffs office had contacted the state police for assistance after a person ran away from officers before jumping a bridge railing on Highway 412 and threatening to jump into the Black River. Officials said two off-duty ASP troopers arrived and persuaded the person to climb down from the bridge. Later that night, officials said troopers were called to where a man was threatening to jump off the Interstate 40 East bridge into the Mississippi River. A spokesperson said troopers coordinated a response with the Memphis Crisis Intervention Team and one ASP trooper was able to establish rapport with the man, then other troopers pulled the man to safety. Arkansas State Police troopers locate child taken from Michigan, arrest father ASP Col. Mike Hagar attributed the troopers work to the mental health training the officers receive, including encountering and dealing with the mentally impaired, behavioral health and crisis intervention for law enforcement and de-escalation. I am extremely proud of how our Troopers use compassion and professionalism to help men and women grappling with mental health challenges, Hagar said. Making sure citizens in need know they are not alone is sometimes the most important part of a Troopers job. North Little Rock police identify suspect in 2017 homicide investigation The national suicide and crisis hotline can be reached by dialing 988. It is available 24 hours a day in either English or Spanish. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK. Large-scale Lake Okeechobee releases are likely a few weeks away as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers continues to monitor a high lake during an El Nino winter season that's been tainted by heavy rains. "It's important to be able to accept water into the lake during the summer without the lake getting too high," said Major Cory Bell, second in command at the Army Corps' Jacksonville office. "We must consider higher releases before the onset of the hurricane and rainy seasons." Bell spoke during a media call Friday held by the Army Corps, which hosts these types of calls every week during summer and early fall, the months with the most rain and tropical systems. A manatee munches on water plants on the east side of the lock at the Franklin Locks on Monday, Oct. 9, 2023. Large-scale Lake Okeechobee releases down the Caloosahatchee are likely a few weeks away as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers continues to deal with high lake levels in dry season. The surface of Lake Okeechobee was at 16.3 feet Friday, which is too deep for the aquatic vegetation in the lake. Lake vegetation like eel grass is down to just 1 acre, said Clewiston fishing guide and captain Scott Martin. "Weve got to take our medicine and take the water out of the lake," Martin said. "Theres no way around it. The lake is going to gain 3 feet of water during the rainy season, and thats not far away." Recent flows at the W.P. Franklin Lock and Dam in Alva have hovered around 2,000 cubic feet per second, and that rate is expected to stay steady for a few weeks depending on how much rain falls within the Caloosahatchee River's watershed. Those flows will go higher if the Army Corps decides to release more lake water. Corps: water will go east, west and south The surface of the lake has typically been kept between 12.5 feet and 15.5 feet above sea level, which can be a healthy range for aquatic plants in the lake. But the lake was high for most of 2023, and more El Nino rains could force the Army Corps to ramp up releases. More: Iconic 10-year-old male panther joins list of Florida's famous big cats Bell said any releases would be made to the Caloosahatchee and St. Lucie rivers as well as south to Everglades National Park. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, is calling for above-average rain across the Sunshine State between now and the rainy season, a trend that could make managing the lake even more difficult. "EL Nino brings above average amounts (of rainfall), and we take that into the calculus of what releases we're going to make. we continue to look at the forecast," Bell said. Summer rains are only a few months away Bell said releasing water before the summer would also help avoid the spread of blue-green algae as outbreaks are less frequent during cooler months. "Its' very hard to balance the estuaries on the east and west coast and beneficial releases to the south," Bell said. "I think within the next few weeks if it continues to be wet, we're going to have to make releases. But if we make releases, it will be across the board: east, west and south." More: Reporter finds flamingo haven on recent 11-day Everglades canoe trip "We're trying to set ourselves up for summer, and it's hard to predict what the weather is going to be like," Bell said. Newton Cook, with United Waterfowlers Florida, is a regular critic of the Army Corps, and he says the agency should have started releases months ago. "They should have been making releases back in December, and thats why theyre in trouble," Cook said. "And they are in trouble. (South Florida Water Management District engineers) said maybe we'd get it to 13.5 feet, and thats 3 feet off the lake in three months. Theyre not going to get that much water off the lake without releases." Calusa Waterkeeper Codty Pierce said there should be balance in the Everglades system, which stretches from just south of Orlando to Florida Bay. "The last week we are in decent flow levels from (Franklin Lock), but I am most thankful for no reported cyanobacteria in the river for this past week," Pierce said. "Still a highlight of data is that we are receiving 77% of lake discharges out our side." Connect with this reporter: Chad Gillis on Facebook. This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Lake Okeechobee still high, Army Corps expected to start releases soon ATLANTA For Capt. Chris Aliperti, Januarys hackathon an annual innovation collaboration between the 3rd Infantry Division and Georgia Tech felt like coming home. The young infantry officer, whose Ranger tab and Expert Infantry Badge are supplemented by his former NASA internship and biomedical engineering masters degree from Johns Hopkins, came up in the Georgia-based division. After leading an infantry platoon, Aliperti was tapped to co-found the divisions Marne Innovation Center and serve as a deputy innovation officer in 2022. In that role, he spearheaded the development of the Mold Conditions Awareness Tool, which used sensors and 3D-printed parts to monitor a brigades worth of barracks in hopes of catching mold before it begins to grow. He loved collaborating with soldiers across the division to solve their everyday problems, he said. But as Aliperti neared the end of his assignment at Fort Stewart, Georgia, he realized there wasnt a next step for him to take as an innovation officer. He faced a dilemma: leave the Army in order to keep working in emerging tech, or attend his next phase of professional military education and check the infantry officer boxes until he could apply for other opportunities within the Army? He isnt alone. The Armys talent development and management bureaucracy is struggling to meet the needs of soldiers valued for their ability to break the system, creating an innovation paradox. Aliperti, to his relief, was spared the choice a senior official at Human Resources Command intervened to place him as a mechanical engineering instructor and associate director of an engineering innovation center at West Point. Recognizing how unusual the Armys intervention in his case was, Aliperti teamed up with Capt. Chris Flournoy (currently the Marne Divisions innovation director) and other soldiers in similar roles to concoct a talent management strategy proposal for the services innovation community. We want to formalize innovation enough to create a lasting impact on the Army, said Flournoy. But [it must] still be flexible enough to allow operational units to tailor the innovation cells to meet their immediate needs. Now-Capt. Chris Aliperti, left, and Capt. Chris Flournoy, right, spoke with Army Times about the future of innovation talent management in the Army. (Army) According to Col. Kris Saling, who led Human Resources Commands innovation efforts before joining Recruiting Command last month, the Army is well-aware of the task it faces, and creative individual talent management wont be enough forever. She said an Army-level planning team is exploring ways to track soldiers with such experience and create permanent dedicated roles for them. Aliperti and Flournoy are supporting that process, and they spoke with Army Times to explain their work. Part of the bind, Aliperti argued, is that it doesnt seem that theres a great model of identifying what makes a good innovation officer. Currently, selections are informal and decentralized, which contrasts with the formal board process adopted by centralized organizations like the Army Software Factory. Other services, such as the Air Force, have developed personnel management tags known as additional skill identifiers in the Army that track troops who have served in innovation roles. Army skill identifiers frequently require a formal education curriculum as well; the captains see that as an opportunity to ensure all formally labeled innovation officers have tech and data literacy, in addition to other relevant skills. Saling said an effort is underway to create a skill identifier, but Aliperti cautioned it could be years from completion. Although developing a skill code is the Army way to solve the talent tracking problem, Aliperti and Flournoy also want to create an organized consortium of innovation professionals that trains, tracks and helps leaders employ such soldiers. Then comes the challenge of finding ways to use such talent that dont require the Army to manage innovators by exceptions, as Aliperti was. The captains had mixed feelings about the Army codifying tactical innovation jobs in unit organizational tables (as Saling indicated the service is exploring), which runs the risk of prescribing a one-size-fits-all solution that may not work for every unit. And not all such soldiers need to spend their entire careers in specialized jobs, they said. Flournoy, for example, is set to lead an infantry company after he departs from his current assignment. He changed his mind about leaving the Army because he sees potential benefits to the service using his expertise at the company level. Because of my experience with human-machine integration, I would be a great company [commander] to be tagged to go to Project Convergence and test out things, he said. I have that background knowledge of why this is important, but the [Armys talent management system] has no way of knowing that Id be a good candidate for that. How innovation may help a Georgia-based armor brigade Although the Armys tactical innovation movement has drawn criticism from those who believe such organizations insulation from the services traditional procurement pathways undercuts their value, officials attending the Jan. 7 event at Georgia Tech emphasized the real-world results theyve seen from such efforts. Col. Molly Solsbury is the commander of the 513th Military Intelligence Brigade, which provides intelligence support to U.S. Central Command from Fort Eisenhower, Georgia. Before her current assignment, Solsbury completed a Massachusetts Institute of Technology fellowship and worked in data and innovation-oriented roles with the 18th Airborne Corps and Joint Special Operations Command. Her soldiers participated in the hackathon event, where she spoke with Army Times. Col. Molly Solsbury, commander of the 513th Military Intelligence Brigade, addresses participants at the 3rd Infantry Division and Georgia Tech's annual innovation I know that it is possible to use the talent that we have in our universities and our research institutes to create a laboratory that we then can take to the battlefield for results, she said. Ive seen some instances where its worked. Solsbury (as well as Aliperti and Flournoy) emphasized the importance of maintaining a cadre of specialized innovation personnel as catalysts who empower line soldiers to design and implement solutions to their problems by providing them the tools, space, expertise and resources they need. The running partnership between the 3rd Infantry Division and the Georgia Tech Research Institute provides participants with just that: time, tools and technical expertise. At the Jan. 7 event, teams presented proposals for cheap, vehicle-mounted electromagnetic spectrum sensors; rapid-hardening foam to help vehicles quickly cross anti-tank ditches; portable cooling tools for battlefield computer servers; and portable high-frequency signal emitters. According to Flournoy, the commander of the divisions 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team tasked his units with identifying and submitting project proposals ahead of the units summer National Training Center rotation. One of the soldiers working on the foam bridge project was Staff Sgt. Nicholas Harris, a platoon sergeant from A Company, 10th Brigade Engineer Battalion. Having the scientists here expedited the things that we were trying to figure out, Harris said. The engineer explained that testing his teams ideas at the unit level without external support such as the innovation event wouldve absolutely been a drawn-out, labor intensive process. He thinks putting soldiers and scientists in the same room also ensured everyone was on the same page about the stakes. On a day-to-day basis, scientists or professors who try to deal with problems like this dont really get to understand [them] to the lowest end user a soldier actually employing it, Harris said. A diorama model depicts a proposed technique for crossing anti-tank ditches foam bridges developed at the 3rd Infantry Division and Georgia Tech's joint innovation The foam-based bridge concept, inspired by reports of Israeli troops testing sponge bombs for use against tunnels, aims to speed up hasty obstacle belt breaches under fire, which Harris identified as the most hazardous task in the combat engineers playbook. Harris, gesturing toward himself as he spoke, said Army doctrine estimates units will sustain approximately 50% casualties for combined arms breaches. We lose time; we lose people, he said. Thats the problem. Next comes field testing to see whether any foam concoctions can dry (and support a tanks weight) quicker than the 10-minute benchmark set by current bridging tactics. But even if follow-up experiments dont succeed, argued Solsbury, the workshop wasnt in vain. The seed that were planting is that we have sergeants, we have lieutenants and we have young warrant officers that were in there, she said. Theyre going to take that design thinking approach back, and theyre going to teach all of their soldiers part of the magic that happens at these [events] is getting young soldiers involved at the ground level. Andrew students partner for Pickleball Paddle Project Woodworking students at Victor J. Andrew High School in Tinley Park partnered with students in the schools Ultima Program for students with specialized learning needs on a Pickleball Paddle Project, an effort that helped build connections between the students and allowing them to teach and learn from each other, according to a news release from District 230. Students were paired up to create pickleball gear that will be auctioned off to raise funds for future projects. Woodworking teacher Jeff Cassidy said the project also was a way to invite Ultima students into the woodshop at Andrew. I want everyone to have access to it, as well as have my kids be good mentors, he said. Seeing them pair up makes me so happy and proud of these kids. Schools unite for Black History Month Showcase Students from six area school districts came together Tuesday to celebrate Black History Month with a showcase of talent at the Performing Arts Center at Governors State University in University Park. It was the fifth year for the event, which united students from Elementary School District 159, Matteson School District 162, Park Forest-Chicago Heights School District 163, Rich Township High School District 227 and Southland College Prep Charter High School. The showcase featured the district choirs, jazz bands and dance performances. Rich Township District 227 Superintendent Johnnie Thomas called the event a profound expression of our communitys talent, resilience, and heritage. It is events like these that remind us of the strength found in our diversity and the importance of honoring our history, not just during Black History Month but every day, he said in a news release. Lunar New Year marked in forest preserves The Forest Preserves of Cook County hosted a Lunar New Year event Sunday at Little Red Schoolhouse in the Palos Preserves. The event featured activities including calligraphy, dragon scavenger hunts, lion dances, and crafting dragons, rattle drums, and lanterns with help from the Chinese Storytellers of Naperville and the Chinese Neighborhood Parents Association Another event celebrating the Year of the Dragon is scheduled from 10 a.m. to noon Feb. 17 at Dan Ryan Woods Pavilion, Western Avenue and 87th Street in Chicago. More information is at https://fpdcc.com/events/. Paczki, program on Fr. Tolton at Calumet City Historical Society The Calumet City Historical Society will meet at 2 p.m. Feb. 11 for its first general membership meeting of the year, which will feature servings of paczki, as well as a program at 3 p.m. program. The program, Fr. August Tolton, will be presented by The Rev. Joseph Perry, who has led the cause for sainthood for Father Augustus Tolton, deemed Venerable in 2019, the first African-American Catholic priest in the U.S. and Chicago. The meeting and program are at Calumet City Historical Society Center & Museum, 760 Wentworth Ave. Calumet City. Information is at www.calumetcityhistoricalsociety.org. Murder mystery night for adults at Midlothian library Murder in Margaritaland: A Night of Mystery will be presented from 6 to 9 p.m. Feb. 23 at the Midlothian Public Library, 14701 S. Kenton Ave. While vacationing at the Margaritaland resort, one unfortunate guest will meet the end of their travels altogether. The rest of the guests will be left to find the killer. No acting talent is required, but interactive participation according to instructions on a cue card is what creates the fun. Light refreshments and soft drinks are provided but the cocktails are BYOB. The event is free, but registration is due by February 16. More information is at midlothianlibrary.org or 708-535-2027. Police vest breakfast fundraiser returns The 10th Annual Get Behind the Vest Pancake Breakfast will be from 8 a.m. to noon Feb. 25 at St. John Fisher School, 10200 S. Washtenaw Ave., Chicago. The event will be preceded Feb. 24 by a Vest-A-Thon featuring WGN Radios David Hochberg. Admission to the Pancake Breakfast is $5 per person or $25 for families, which includes all you can eat pancakes and sausage. The WGN Radio Vest-A-Thon will be aired live on WGN-AM/720 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday and will feature stories of officers whose lives have been impacted by bulletproof vests. Information, volunteer and donation information are at 773.238.8766 or www.the19thward.com. Send news to communitynews@southtownstar.com. Nga mihi ki te hunga e whai ana i to ratou whainga (Greetings to everyone who is pursuing their purpose), The text for this month is Matthew 11:12 (NLT), from the time John the Baptist began preaching until now, the Kingdom of Heaven has been forcefully advancing, and violent people are attacking it. In light of the context of John the baptizers imprisonment (and eventual martyrdom), this translation is a lot clearer than the KJV, which leaves some wiggle room to interpret that the violent are those working for the Kingdom: the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force. The latter interpretation was popular in the Pentecostal circles I frequented as a young person. It was used to energize us to go out onto the streets or outdoor markets to witness. By that I mean, to sing and preach what we understood to be the good news (which was usually thinly veiled judgementalism). The aggressive style of evangelism in my past was brought back to me as I read my friend Harvey Kwiyamis January. Harvey is from Malawi and resides in the UK. Until late last year he was the director of(a missions association similar to Missions Interlink). Heres some of what Harvey experienced... At a recent mission conference in Africa, I sat through a sermon (disguised as a seminar paper) that sought to mobilise Africans to be drafted into Gods army, to join the missions force, and to let God deploy them to the trenches on the frontline where they can make a surprise attack on the enemy. The entire sermon sounded like an Army General was speaking to his cadets about an ongoing war somewhere within the 10/40 Window. When I tried to raise a concern, I was forcefully informed that mission is warfare, and that as missionaries, we pull down strongholds for God. As a matter of fact, I was rebuked for forgetting that the kingdom of God suffers violence, and the violent take it by force. I was told they were planning to send a battalion of young men and women as missionaries to occupylike an occupying forcea city near me (in the UK). We have a motivational problem. In an X (Twitter) conversation related to Harveys post, I commented There is NO PLACE for aggression in missions. Period., knowing full well that that is not a popular opinion. I think missions influencers resort to militaristic tropes because, when it comes to the sharing of our faith, whether local or cross-cultural, we have a motivational problem. To get more believers committed to evangelism, ministry, and missions, influencers too easily twist Scripture to promote a militant activism, casting the great unwashed, pagan, or heathen as ignorant slaves of our enemy (sin, the powers of darkness, and the Devil) needing to be rescued (by force, if necessary, e.g. the burning building analogy). Drawing on Old Testament narratives, Christians are cast as commandos who go out into enemy territory to take it for God. In todays world, such territory are our societies otherwise dominated by secularism, communism, or a dominant religion different to ours (curiously, capitalism is rarely cast negativelysecularism is mentioned in its stead). But, I hear you say, Scripture DOES speak of spiritual slaves, sin, lostness and darkness. Indeed, it does. Predominantly its with reference to what WE once were, in contrast to the light and liberty we now enjoy in Christ. It is also used of influential people who claim to be teachers but whose lifestyle of abhorrent ungodly behaviour testifies against them. There is also an occasion where it refers to Gentiles in general (Ephesians 4:17-19) but that is said more with pity than animosity. In the epistles, the behaviour and lifestyle of the unregenerate (a state of being, not a derogatory term) serves as a contrast, reminding the regenerate person/community that they need no longer feel constrained by Sin to live that way, the way of the flesh or world. The New Testament lists of unrighteous behaviour are not there to be weaponised. The New Testament lists of unrighteous behaviour are not there to be weaponised. They are a warning to uswe who are empowered by the Spirit to live in righteousness, in alignment with Gods good ways, with the expectation that we will live according to Gods holy standard. The deeds common to people who will not inherit the Kingdom of Christ (cf. Ephesians 5:3-5) are listed, therefore, not to condemn unbelievers but to correct the believers. It is not for us to preach against the sins of unbelievers, condemning their lifestyles. We are not commissioned to be judges. That is Gods prerogative alone. Their lifestyle choices cast them upon Gods merciful judgement and that is enough. Like those of us in-Christ, who have received grace to avoid such judgement, unbelievers can at any time avail themselves of redemption by pledging allegiance to Jesus, receiving the Spirit, and following Him thereafter. Our responsibility as witnesses, according to Scripture, is to live as a community of Christ followers in such a way that our Spirit-enabled mutually loving, reciprocal, perpetually reconciling, communal lifestyles present a compellingly attractive alternative to the patterns of this world. THAT demonstration of Gods power is witnessing. Not the imposition of our theological opinion upon unsuspecting passers-by. It is entirely unacceptable for anyone to appropriate violence in the cause of co-creating New Creation. With reference to the introductory text, it is entirely unacceptable for anyone to appropriate violence in the cause of co-creating New Creation (or building the Kingdom if you prefer). To do so is a thoroughly colonialistic heresy. Like other fruit of anger, aggression has no place in the life of a righteous person. James notes that we, must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. So get rid of all the filth and evil in your lives (James 1:19-21a). He associates anger with filth and evil. Aggression is similar. It can be a by-product of anger but also of undue stress, fear, feeling threatened, frustration, jealousy, unhealthy competitiveness, etc. None of those attributes relate to a gospel of peace, let alone a healthy community of faith. We may frequently feel them, but we no longer need to respond with aggression (or outright violence). Furthermore, in the absence of the negative stimulus, it makes no sense to artificially generate aggression in order to participate in the purposes of God, regardless of how warrior-influenced ones culture is or used to be. Whoever Harveys missions motivator was, he (and its probably safe to assume they were male) is way out of alignment with Gods right ways. This example of misaligned motivation is but one of a number of ways Scripture has been misused to promote missions and evangelism in the recent past. Such use is rooted in the kind of arrogant confidence that comes from an attitude of superiority, arguably a hangover from Western Christendoms intent to colonise and civilise anyone who lived and thought differently. It is astonishing how sticky misinterpreted missions myths and metaphors can be. For those of us trying to promote a more exegetically faithful interpretation, we can be accused of going soft on missions and evangelismwhat some might call missions drift. In response, Id ask how an aggressive/impositional attitude to sharing the gospel is working out for us on the whole? The overall statistics reveal that its not so good. Every metric of the Christian faith is in decline, in the West at least, but also in established churches elsewhere. Where the local church is exploding and sustaining growth is in new expressions that read Scripture more indigenously and live out their transformed lives communally as the New Testament encourages. Their witness, often in hostile contexts, is powerfully attractive. These new expressions are predominantly from more collectivist cultures, often converting out of another majority religion. For those of us living at the end of a civilisation, our primary investment should be to creat(e) fertile ruins over which new worlds can emerge. It will take some time for new missions concepts to take hold as the old models fade and new innovations start to normalise. I am talking generations not years. Thought leaders with a prophetic sense in positions of influence at this end of the previous missions era may not live to see the impact of their critique and recommendations. Nevertheless, as the young Italian philosopher, Fredrico Campagna encourages at the end of his book, Prophetic Culture: Recreation for Adolescents, for those of us living at the end of a civilisation, our primary investment should be to creat(e) fertile ruins over which new worlds can emerge. Whether you are fully committed to the former ways of doing things or imagining how we can better participate in the purposes of God to co-create New Creation into the future, may we all shed aggression and make it our aim to live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity (1 Timothy 2:2ff) and thereby please God as we #stayonmission. Arohanui ki a koutou e haere ana ki te ao (love to you all as you go into the world). Dr Jay Matenga is a Maori theologian of missions practice. He leads Missions Interlink NZ, the missionary alliance of Aotearoa New Zealand, from which he is seconded for half his time to lead the World Evangelical Alliances Mission Commission. Prior to his 2015 appointment with Missions Interlink, Jay served for 15 years as the Director of Pioneers and 5 years before that with WEC International, sending and caring for missionaries from New Zealand. His MA studies (All Nations Christian College) investigated relationships of power within missions structures and his doctoral research (Fuller Seminary) led to his development of an Industrial and Indigenous values spectrum as a way of understanding intercultural interactions, which can provide a pathway to maturity through transformative tensions. Christians should avoid language that dehumanises or caricatures Russians when talking about the Ukraine war, the Church of England has said. During a time of escalating tensions between Russia and the West, church officials have warned Christians to be mindful that everyone is human, and that even in times of war, we must remember their humanity. In a written submission in papers to the General Synod, the Church of Englands legislative body, which will convene later this month, Mark Sheard, chair of the Mission and Public Affairs Council, warned against jingoism and exhilaration when referring to the war in Ukraine and for Christians to refrain from allowing religious fervour to fan the flames of war. He said that Christians should avoid actions or words that dehumanise Russia or Russians and dehumanising caricatures, adding: Whilst relationships at the highest level between the Church of England and the Russian Orthodox Church are inevitably difficult, there are many friendships with Russian Christians both in Russia and in the Russian diaspora, not least in the UK that are to be treasured, especially with a view to rebuilding relationships after the war. His comments come as the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Rev Justin Welby, is currently in Ukraine where he has been meeting churches, politicians, charities and citizens. Tucker Carlson, former Fox News presenter and conservative US media personality, published his highly anticipated interview with Vladimir Putin, Russian president, online on Thursday night. It was the first time the Russian leader had agreed to an interview with a Western media outlet since he launched his full-scale invasion of Ukraine almost two years ago and comes as fighting in the country has reached a stalemate. The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Rev Justin Welby, is currently in Ukraine where he has been meeting churches, politicians, charities and citizens - Getty/Dimitar Dilkoff During the interview, Putin threatened a third world war if the US deployed troops to Ukraine, insisted he was fulfilling his mission to de-Nazify Ukraine and repeated his argument that Ukraine was not a real country and that it was shaped by the will of Joseph Stalin, the former leader of the Soviet Union. Asked how the Church of England could encourage Christians not to dehumanise Russians, William Nye, secretary general of the Archbishops Council and secretary general of the General Synod of the Church of England, said that it was up to leaders to lead by example. He said: We clearly enforce it, Im not sure the ecclesiastical courts have that ability. What we can do is encourage it by the way in which bishops and others speak into public affairs, by the way in which we can remember that everyone is human, is made in the image of Christ, and that even in times of war, we must remember their humanity, the way in which we can show that we while support Ukrainian refugees, we also need to recognise that all people on all sides of conflicts are our brothers and sisters. On Thursday night, the Archbishop of Canterbury released a statement while travelling in Ukraine, drawing from the legacy of Sir Winston Churchill in the Second World War, warning of the risks for wider security if Ukraine does not succeed. He said that Ukraine is fighting for the survival of a people, like Britain in the Second World War, as he called for renewed support from people in Western countries. The Archbishop of Canterbury added: True victory must include a secure, just and lasting peace, freely agreed by Ukraine and Russia. The long-term vision must be for stability and security, justice, healing, and reconciliation. That also was Churchills vision after the Second World War. It is in that sense of winning the peace that we say the first step must be to win the war. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. A departing astronaut crew left behind a peanut butter surprise in space. Ax-3, a four-astronaut mission leaving the International Space Station (ISS) aboard Crew Dragon "Freedom" from SpaceX, made a special call-out in the minutes after undocking at 9:20 a.m. EST (1320 GMT) earlier today (Feb. 7), on their way to returning to Earth two days later. "There's some peanut butter waiting for you in the airlock entrance, on the forward side, enjoy" Ax-3 commander and retired NASA astronaut Michael Lopez-Alegria told the Expedition 70 astronauts while backing away from the ISS, during a NASA Television broadcast. (The spacecraft was docked at the Harmony module's space-facing port side for a little over two weeks.) While no full menu for Ax-3 is available, peanut butter has been a staple of astronaut preparation for decades. In fact, the Axiom Space private crew got to spend National Peanut Butter Day in space; that's an event each Jan. 24 marked by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Peanut Board, among other institutions. Related: Live updates from the Ax-3 private astronaut mission Ax-3 is the third crewed mission to the ISS organized by Houston-based Axiom, after two previous excursions in April 2022 and May 2023. For meal items, the company typically uses a food scientist to take "various commercial off-the-shelf food products" that will fare well in a floating environment with limited galley space, like "nutrition bars, candies, snacks and shelf-stable entrees", Axiom officials wrote in 2023. But Axiom is far from the first to fly peanuts in space, as NASA astronauts at the least have snacked on them for generations. Cubes of peanuts are listed in the typical Gemini program menu, in the 1967 book "Lectures in Aerospace Medicine." And it appears that varieties of these cubes also flew to the moon with the Apollo 11 landing crew in 1969, per this picture from the Smithsonian Institution's National Air and Space Museum. NASA space food specialist Paul Lachance spoke about these astronaut-friendly peanut cubes in a 1966 television program for the Massachusetts Institute for Technology, as Gemini was giving way to Apollo. "The bites we'd have are like the beef sandwich, which could also be a chicken sandwich, a cheese sandwich; compressed items, such as a peanut cube, which could also be a cereal cube of some sort; and even a fruit cake," he said. RELATED STORIES: Live updates from the Ax-3 private astronaut mission International Space Station Everything you need to know Meet the 4 astronauts of SpaceX's Ax-3 launch for Axiom Space Peanut butter, which may or may not be separate from these peanut cubes, apparently flew to the moon with Apollo astronauts in the 1960s and 1970s. It's mentioned both in the NASA 1999 document "Space Food and Nutrition", and a 2023 peer-reviewed study in the journal Life Sciences in Space Research. But food preparation was limited in these little capsules, requiring astronauts to either eat it out of tubes or packets or to use a few squirts of water for preparation. The easiest varieties of travel food back then were powders or puddings, Lachance said in an oral history for NASA in 1996. (He died at age 83 in 2017.) "You could really take them off the shelf, and then just find a way to add the water and shake them up and make a pudding and then squeeze it out," he said. Peanut butter was a staple of the shuttle program, which used a small galley for food preparation. It was in fact on board the very first mission, STS-1, in 1981 as this Smithsonian picture demonstrates. The savory spread continues to fly on ISS missions and sometimes shows up in astronaut videos, such as in Canadian Chris Hadfield's space cooking clips of 2012-2013 and NASA's Shane Kimbrough 2017 demonstration of peanut-butter-and-tortilla sandwich preparation in space. The four crew of the Axiom Space Ax-3 mission that launched from Kennedy Space Center last month made a safe return to Earth with a splashdown off the coast of Daytona Beach on Friday but not before sending a sonic boom across Central Florida. The SpaceX Crew Dragon Freedom that departed from the International Space Station on Wednesday morning landed at 8:30 a.m. off the Florida coast after a 47-hour trip home carrying the Ax-3 crew of Axiom chief astronaut and mission commander Michael Lopez-Alegria along with Italian Air Force Col. Walter Villadei, Alper Gezeravc of Turkey and European Space Agency project astronaut Marcus Wandt of Sweden. The Dragon also brought back 550 pounds of science research and cargo from the ISS. The path brought Dragon across Florida with a window-rattling sonic boom before its two drogue parachutes slowed the spacecraft down, followed by the successful deployment of its four main parachutes for an on-time landing amid calm seas. On behalf of SpaceX welcome home, thanks for flying SpaceX, mission command said in a more business-as-usual back-and-forth with Lopez-Alegria, who replied, It was our pleasure. All four crew members are feeling well, he added as teams raced toward the floating Dragon to prepare it for its lift onto the companys recovery ship named Shannon. The crew was up and out of the spacecraft less than an hour after splashdown, set for medical checks before a helicopter ride back to land. The quartet launched atop a Falcon 9 rocket from KSC on Jan. 18 marking the first of six potential human spaceflight missions on the calendar this year planned from the Space Coast, with SpaceX responsible for five of them. Their return marks the completion of the 12th human spaceflight by SpaceX, which launched its first Crew Dragon in May 2020. It has since taken up 46 passengers to space across its fleet of four spacecraft. Lopez-Alegria takes up two of those 46 slots as he became the first repeat flyer having also flown on the first mission for Axiom Space. Most of SpaceX flights are part of NASAs Commercial Crew Program to rotate four astronauts to the ISS every six months. After the first test flight Demo-2, it has since flown up seven of those missions. Axiom Space flights are private missions to the ISS for which SpaceX acts like an Uber. Axiom pays SpaceX for launch service and NASA for the stay on the ISS. The Ax-3 crew is the first all-European private crew as Lopez-Alegria has both U.S. and Spanish citizenship. They spent more than 18 days on board the ISS having been delayed from their originally planned departure last weekend because of bad weather over Florida. The crew spent more than 21 days total in space. Lopez-Alegria completes his sixth trip in space having flown four missions for NASA and now two with Axiom Space. For the three customers, it was their first orbital trip in space although Villadei also flew a short suborbital flight with Virgin Galactic last year. Gezeravc became the first astronaut for Turkey. SpaceXs next human spaceflight is coming up as early as Feb. 22 with the launch from KSC of the Crew-8 mission to relieve Crew-7, which has been on board the ISS since August. SpaceX has another crew rotation mission as early as August and another Axiom Space mission in October as well as the private Polaris Dawn mission that wont visit the ISS but send up billionaire Jared Issacman and three others on an orbital mission that will feature the first commercial tethered spacewalk. That flight is targeted for this summer. The other human spaceflight planned this year not from SpaceX will be the first test flight with passengers on board for Boeings CST-100 Starliner, part of Boeings efforts to catch up to SpaceX and be able to take part in the Commercial Crew Program rotational missions. That flight is slated for April. --------- Despite society labeling masculinity "toxic" in what many call a "war on men," California Pastor Jack Hibbs told his congregation that what Christian men need to reflect, especially for their sons, is "biblical masculinity." Hibbs, who leads Calvary Chapel Chino Hills, recently preached the second part of a sermon series titled "The War of 2024," in which he examines the issues Christians will metaphorically fight over with the culture this year. "There's a war on men," Hibbs said during the sermon, saying that "one of the biggest battles raging in our culture" involves Satan directly attacking men. "The lie that is advancing today against men is something of this nature: men cannot be strong. That's rude, ugly and toxic," Hibbs lamented. "If you're the man, you can't be the leader anymore. Men can't lead." "Men are not allowed to be strong; men are not allowed to be the leader, and men cannot have an opinion anymore, not allowed. Whatever we say, it's the wrong thing. It's sexist; it's chauvinistic; it's racist." At one point, Hibbs directed his congregation to watch a PragerU video featuring conservative commentator Allie Beth Stuckey recommending that, to combat toxic male traits, men should be more masculine, not less. "When you try to make men more like women, you don't get less 'toxic masculinity,' you get more," she said. "Why? Because bad men don't become good when they stop being men; they become good when they stop being bad." "Aggression, violence, and unbridled ambition can't be eliminated from the male psyche; they can only be harnessed. And when they are harnessed, they are tools for good, not for harm." Stuckey further suggested that "the same masculine traits that bring destruction also defeat tyranny," "the traits that foster greed also build economies," and "the traits that drive men to take foolish risks also drive men to take heroic risks." "The growing problem in today's society isn't that men are too masculine; it's that they're not masculine enough. When men embrace their masculinity in a way that is healthy and productive, they are leaders, warriors and heroes," she added. Returning to his sermon, Hibbs said, "Kids must see biblical masculinity and biblical femininity while they're growing up," adding, "God created the family for a reason, and that's why Satan hates it. Children are the target in all the areas of life." Hibbs told the parents in attendance that if they have a 4-year-old boy who "accidentally puts on his mom's high heels," they should say to him, "Put your dad's boots on" instead. Hibbs added, "If you've got a little girl that's walking around wearing her dad's boots," she should instead be encouraged to try on her mother's high heels and walk around in them. "God says to the parent, 'train up the child in the way that they should go,'" said Hibbs, quoting from Proverbs 22:6. "You have a boy or do you have a girl? Then, in that direction, place these tools or these items or these things in their hands." "Groom them in the direction that they should go based upon God's Word because the enemy of your children is out to groom them their way. Someone's going to win this battle, ... and God would have it to be us." Originally published by The Christian Post The US conducted retaliatory strikes against Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria last week. The strikes involved B-1B bombers from the US and fighter jets from the Middle East region. A retired US Air Force colonel said the B-1Bs sent a powerful message to America's adversaries. It's a long way to go from Texas to the airspace above Iraq and back to base, but it's a mission the B-1B Lancer can handle. And last week, the supersonic bomber did just that. The B-1Bs joined fighter jets from US Central Command to conduct the widespread strikes against Iranian-backed targets on February 2. The choice to include them in the strikes was likely based on their massive payload capacity and the drive to reduce the munitions used by jets and warships in the theater, which have carried out strikes. "I'm not surprised that the B-1s were chosen," Mark Gunzinger, a former command pilot who logged over 3,000 hours in the B-52 Stratofortress, told Business Insider. "The B-1 force is highly experienced at conducting attacks against those kinds of targets." The B-1B aircraft and their crews hail from Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota, but an investigation into a crash that happened there earlier this year forced their relocation to Dyess Air Force Base in Texas the staging area for last week's operation. A B-1B Lancer before takeoff at Dyess Air Force Base on February 1. US Air Force photo by Senior Airman Leon Redfern The bombers took off from Dyess and flew nonstop to the Middle East. There, alongside CENTCOM's fighter jets, they dropped more than 125 precision-guided munitions over a 30-minute period and struck more than 85 Iran-linked targets across multiple facilities in Iraq and Syria before returning to the US. The strikes came in retaliation to a drone attack last month that killed three American troops in Jordan. Lt. Gen. Douglas Sims, the director of the Joint Staff, told reporters after the military action that the B-1Bs enabled the US to hit back against the Iran-backed forces at a time of its choosing and with a "significant" number of munitions. The aircraft demonstrated that the Pentagon didn't need to bring extra capabilities to the Middle East when it could just carry out strikes from US-based aircraft, he added. B-1B Lancers at Dyess Air Force Base on February 1. US Air Force photo by Senior Airman Leon Redfern Considered the "backbone" of the US military's long-range-bomber force, the B-1B can carry the largest conventional payload 75,000 pounds of guided and unguided weapons in the Air Force's inventory, the service says in a fact sheet. Armaments include 2,000-pound general-purpose bombs, Joint Direct Attack Munitions and Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles. The aircraft can travel over 900 mph and reach a ceiling of more than 30,000 feet during intercontinental missions. Gunzinger, now the director of future concepts and capability assessments at the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies, said the B-1B's payload capacity and robust arsenal of weaponry made it the ideal choice for last week's strikes. There's also the capacity angle, he said; it would take multiple fighter jets to strike the same number of targets that a single bomber could hit. An airman prepares Joint Direct Attack Munitions at Dyess Air Force Base on January 31. US Air Force photo by Senior Airman Leon Redfern Targets hit in Iraq and Syria last week included command and control centers, intelligence buildings, weapons-storage locations, and ammunition-supply-chain facilities. If the B-1Bs have the right weapons to go after these targets, the aircraft are the optimal choice for the mission and can help conserve US munitions stockpiles already in the Middle East region. But there's a messaging element to it as well: The B-1Bs demonstrate that the US can strike any adversary on the planet that doesn't have advanced air defenses, in defense of its personnel or allies, right from the homeland. However, the B-1B lacks the stealth needed to go up against rivals such as Iran with surface-to-air missile batteries. By using the B-1B, the Pentagon doesn't have to generate sorties from overseas bases, Gunzinger said. "We can do it from the United States and we can do it, if necessary, within hours because of what bombers bring to the mix," he said, adding that the aircraft was a "powerful deterrent" showing America's enemies they could be hit hard without warning. "We don't have to deploy our forces abroad and bed them down, and that information leaks out," Gunzinger said. "We can generate sorties in the middle of Texas and literally, within half a day, it'll be over targets." Read the original article on Business Insider Ten African penguin chicks have hatched in just over a year at a San Francisco science museum as scientists strive to save the endangered bird. The bird is native to the South African coast and up west to Namibia, a region that Holly Rosenblum, senior biologist at the California Academy of Sciences, said was reminiscent of the California coast and its diverse kelp forests. Only 9,000 breeding pairs remain in the wild, a sharp decline from an estimated 1 million pairs a century ago, Rosenblum told USA TODAY. Before the recent baby boom started in November 2022, the California Academy of Sciences, a nonprofit science museum and research institute in San Francisco, said it went four years without any new chicks. Sparks Perkins, a biologist at the academy's Steinhart Aquarium, said the last 10 chicks hatched over a span of 10 years. The youngest chick hatched on Jan. 12, and its sex has not yet been determined. African penguins can live to be 27 years old in the wild, and longer in captivity. Baby African penguins at the California Academy of Sciences. 'Every chick we welcome strengthens the genetics' Threats such as overfishing, habitat degradation, and oil spills have reduced colonies of the charismatic black-and-white birds, said Brenda Melton, director of animal care and well-being at the museum's Steinhart Aquarium. "Every chick we welcome strengthens the genetics and overall population of the species in human care," she said. In the wild, African penguins make nests by burrowing and lining their nest with leaves, sticks and rocks. In the California Academy, each penguin pair is given a nest box, which they can line with nesting material. Chicks spend the first three weeks in a nest box with their parents, then move to "fish school," where they learn to swim and eat fish provided by biologists, the academy said. Biologists also set up activities to keep the baby penguins engaged such as painting, bubbles, laser pointers and ice cakes. After about three months, the academy said penguins are introduced to the colony, currently of 21 birds, where they can spend four months up to several years. Over 1,300 endangered or threatened species in the U.S. More than 44,000 species are threatened with extinction, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature. In the United States, over 1,300 species are listed as either endangered or threatened under the Endangered Species Act, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Rosenblum warned of extinct species ripple effect, noting losing even one species can be devastating to an environment. When we mess with those webs, the whole thing can eventually topple, she said. Contributing: The Associated Press This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Boom of endangered African penguin chicks hatch at California museum Star of the Great British Bake Off Dame Prue Leith has responded to former host Sandy Toksvigs claim about leaving the Channel 4 show due to boredom. In an interview with Radio Times last month, Toksvig revealed that she decided to quit the show in 2020 after three years as she "stopped having fun". She also said that she felt her brain was "atrophying" while "watching meringues dry". The comedian hosted alongside Noel Fielding on the popular series from 2017 to 2020. Speaking to Times Radio on Tuesday, Bake Off judge Leith responded by saying that she did not think Toksvig was really bored, adding: I dont think Sandi was so bored because she and I shared a wonderful green room in this posh house, which was where we filmed Bake Off and which was in the library. "And so we had this wonderful selection of books and she would knit little figures and dress them beautifully. Did you know shes a knitter? She sells [them] for charity. "So she made lots of those. She wrote a few scripts. She did a lot of other things. I mean, I can see that for some people as clever as Sandi, watching meringue dry is perhaps a bit heavy, but I think she just liked the joke. I dont think she was really bored." Toksvig and Leith joined Bake Off in 2017 (PA) Leith also joined the show at the same time as Toksvig in 2017 and to this day, she absolutely loves it, she said. "I do still absolutely love it," she told the outlet. "I dont want to stay so long that I fall over; I just dont want to make a fool of myself. And I dont want to be there beyond when Im really enjoying it and the public like me." During her interview with Radio Times in January, Toksvig, who hosts BBCs QI, said she was already growing tired of the show before her departure. She said: So after three years, I thought, Thatll do, go and do something else!. Im in love enough with the business to think, OK, thats a nice pay cheque, but it doesnt work for me. Ill move on and do something else. In the same interview, the 65-year-old presenter also revealed that she hasnt been in touch with the Bake Off team since she left, and doesnt watch the show. I dont like cake, she admitted. But if somebody makes The Great British Cheese Off, Im in. Bake Off concluded its 14th season in November 2023, with Matty Edgell from Cambridgeshire, taking the crown after presenting a tiered celebration cake. The town of Baldwin made national headlines in 2019 when it opened its own grocery store after the only for-profit grocer in town closed and residents lost what many take for granted a convenient spot to roll a shopping cart down aisles and return home with bags of fresh food. A Baldwin resident enthused at the time that the Baldwin Town Council's willingness to fill the void "can be said to be 'only in Baldwin.' I am hometown proud." The town-run store, called Baldwin Market, has struggled for years, however, to reach the break-even point. Now, it's on a path to close next month. Baldwin Mayor Sean Lynch talks with a shopper on Sept. 20, 2019 when the Baldwin Market opened as a town-owned and town-run grocery store. After private grocers came and went from Baldwin, the town decided to open the store so residents wouldn't have to travel miles for grocery shopping. "I'm very sad to see it," said Baldwin Mayor Sean Lynch. The last day is scheduled to be March 18 for shoppers to pick up fresh produce, homemade pies, assorted meats in sizes ranging from a serving to a caseload, and all the other staples that end up in pantries. Pandemic relief: Baldwins government-run grocery kept town well stocked Urban food desert: New Town residents can be miles from a grocery store. With a population of about 1,400 in a rural part of southwest Duval County, Baldwin lacked the customer base to sustain a for-profit grocer business in recent years. Closing the town-owned grocery store will require residents to hit Interstate 10 for miles-long drives to Macclenny in neighboring Baker County or to the Jacksonville suburbs for grocery shopping. Giving residents a closer-to-home choice was the driving force behind Baldwin getting into the grocery business in September 2019, a year after IGA pulled out of a 10,000 square foot building in the middle of Baldwin on Lima Street. It was an unusual strategy. Other cities such as Jacksonville have used tax incentives to bring grocery stores into food deserts, the name for areas that lack access to affordable, healthy food. The city of Jacksonville provided an $850,000 grant for Winn-Dixie to open a supermarket in Gateway Town Center in northwest Jacksonville in 2020. The city also worked with the Jacksonville Transportation Authority on a "door to store" program for people to book transportation to supermarkets outside their neighborhoods. Baldwin was one of the few cities anywhere in the country that took that goal a step farther and actually ran its own grocery store. The employees of Baldwin Market are on the city's payroll and the town covers the store's day-to-day expenses. Shoppers leave the newly opened Baldwin Market during its soft opening on Sept. 20, 2019. The 10,000 square foot building was too small for big grocery retailers so the town, which already owned the building, decided to staff and stock it for the convenience of residents. The concept drew national media attention with coverage in The Washington Post and on Fox Business. But making it financially sustainable proved to be a high hurdle. Lynch said the Baldwin Town Council decided it wasn't possible to keep running losses in what he calls a very tough business. The town had owned the Lima Street building for years, having built it with the aid of an economic development grant. Baldwin leased it to businesses for grocery stores, but those struggled to make it work financially. After IGA closed its Baldwin store in 2018, town leaders found that big retailers considered the building too small and mom-and-pop merchants saw it as too big. That left residents in the lurch, particularly senior citizens who had a hard time getting access to supermarkets located miles away. "The whole thing I wanted from the start, talking to the seniors, was to keep them in town so they didn't have to do all the driving and give them fresh produce, give them fresh meat and all the little items like frozen peas and stuff," Lynch said. So the town decided to step in by investing $150,000 from a reserve account to get Baldwin Market up and running by hiring staff, stocking the shelves, and rehabbing the refrigeration system. "It was a lot of work to get it going and to see that the idea is great, but the biggest problem we've had is our buying power," Lynch said. He said chain stores that buy in bigger volumes could stock their inventory at far lower costs could, and that gap "has skyrocketed" since the 2021. That means Baldwin has to charge noticeably higher prices to recoup its cost on items like a box of macaroni than grocery chains do for the same products. The town's bottom-line goal was never to generate extra income for the city, but it did want to at least break-even on Baldwin Market. In the first full fiscal year of operation through the end of September 2020, the town's retail development fund, which covers Baldwin Market, took in about $1.04 million in revenue compared to $1.1 million in expenses, resulting in a $61,000 operating loss, according to the city's financial statements. The arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 helped generate sales that year because people were staying close to home in Baldwin and everywhere else. "With lockdowns in place, the residents were very glad to have a local grocery store and this, in part, contributed to very robust sales," the audit firm that does the city's annual financial statement wrote in its report. Those robust sales didn't last. In the next fiscal year through September 2021, revenue from sales dropped to about $826,000 while the city's cost of running the store came in at just over $1 million, resulting in a $178,000 shortfall, according to the financial statement. For the year ending in September 2022, revenue dropped slightly to about $814,000 and the city trimmed costs to $985,000, but that still was a $171,000 shortfall. The fresh produce at Baldwin Market, shown in 2019 during the store's opening, is an important part of keeping areas from being food deserts that lack access to fresh fruits, vegetables and meats. Lynch said the gap between what it costs the town to run the store compared to the sales revenue has persisted. "Once it starts costing the town more and more, the writing was on the wall with that," Lynch said. "You couldn't just keep going that way." To tackle such food deserts, he said the federal government can help by providing subsidies for grocery stores in those areas. That would offset the disadvantage that standalone stores like Baldwin Market have in terms of buying power, Lynch said. The growth of housing in the western side of Duval County will eventually create a market for new grocery stores in the Baldwin and Bryceville areas, but "the rooftops are not there yet," he said. The store attracted a loyal following from inside and outside of Baldwin because of the quality and prices of its meats. "Best prices in town!" one shopper raved in a comment on the store's Facebook page about its cases of meat. Lynch said Baldwin Market's meats was a product where the store could compete with national chains. "We've been getting a good value on our meats, and the butcher we have is phenomenal," he said. He hinted that even with the grocery store closing in March, there might be some food that remains available for purchase in the town. "I'm working on something," he said. "Let's put it that way." This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Town-owned grocery store in Baldwin, Florida, will close in March Semafor Signals Insights from The New York Times, NPR, and the Financial Times The News Barclays has pledged to stop directly financing new oil and gas projects and move capital toward supporting companies engaged in decarbonization, it said in a statement Friday. The move is part of the British banks updated climate strategy and follows intense criticism from climate experts and activist investors over its involvement in fossil-fuel programs. Barclays was previously the largest funder of the oil and gas industry in Europe and is currently Britains biggest lender to the sector. Still, critics including the nonprofits ShareAction and ActionAid said the moves did not go far enough. SIGNALS Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories. A similar move from Bank of America faced backlash from Republicans Sources: The New York Times, NPR, Bloomberg Law Barclays announcement followed similar moves by other lenders like HSBC, BNP Paribas, and Bank of America. The American firm, however, appeared recently to backtrack on its commitment to stop financing new coal mines a pledge it made two years ago. The banks updated environmental policy in December said that the projects will now be subject to enhanced due diligence after it was criticized by Republican lawmakers, who labeled its climate pledges woke capitalism. In the U.S., conservative states like Texas and West Virginia have passed laws that would limit officials from doing business with organizations that divest from fossil fuels, NPR reported, while in New Hampshire, lawmakers recently rejected a bill proposed by Republicans who wanted to criminalize ESG investing, whereby money is allocated in part on environmental, social, and governance standards, on the part of state funds. A major pension fund cuts ties with oil and gas groups Sources: Financial Times, Semafor One of Europes largest pension funds, PFZW, said Thursday that it had sold over $3 billion of its holdings in oil and gas groups like Shell and BP, the Financial Times reported saying that they did not introduce adequate plans for decarbonization. The intensive shareholder dialogue over the past two years with the oil and gas sector on climate has made it clear to us that most fossil fuel companies are not prepared to adapt their business models, to meet the Paris climate agreement, the Dutch funds chair Joanne Kellermann told the FT. The pension funds decision came after the European Unions climate agency said that average global temperatures were 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels the threshold targeted by the Paris Agreement to contain climate change for 12 consecutive months. For the second time in less than a decade, Barnstable is in the market for a new police chief. Town Manager Mark Ells recently announced the town will soon begin its search for a chief to lead the Barnstable Police Department after former Chief Matthew Sonnabend retired without fanfare on Jan. 29. In the meantime, Ells has appointed Deputy Chief Jean Challies, who's marking 22 years with the department this year, as the provisional chief. "Until the position is filled permanently, Provisional Chief Challies has the full authority to act as Barnstable Chief of Police," wrote Lynne Poyant, the town's director of communications, in a Thursday email responding to an inquiry about Sonnabend's retirement and the impending chief search. Barnstable Police Chief Matthew Sonnabend, who retired Jan. 29, left, chats with Barnstable Town Manager Mark Ells at Barnstable Police Station in 2018. The former chief's retirement came as the culmination of an extended medical leave that began sometime last year. News of his leave was reported last September, but town administration declined to indicate when the leave started. No further details have been released at this time. Sonnabend, who tallied 26 years on the Barnstable force, was promoted to chief in spring of 2018. He succeeded former Chief Paul MacDonald after he retired in April 2018 at the end of a 12-year tenure as chief and almost four decades with the department. Sonnabend was one of three finalists for the top police job after a search that considered only internal candidates. Challies was also a finalist, and in 2020 was the first woman in the Barnstable Police Department to reach the rank of deputy chief. As of press time, she had not yet responded to an inquiry from the Times about whether she will seek the chief's position permanently. Will Barnstable opt out of Massachusetts Civil Service? The timeline for naming a new chief is not yet known. Presently, the hiring process in the department is governed by provisions of the Massachusetts Civil Service program and can be lengthy. But that could change for the next police chief search, as the town is looking at opting out of the program. At its Feb. 15 meeting, the Town Council will consider an agenda item under "new business" introducing a $35,000 supplemental appropriation order "to fund consulting services and overtime costs for the purpose of exploring the removal of the Barnstable Police Department from Civil Service." A public hearing on the matter is scheduled for March 7. According to a memo drafted by Ells and included in the Feb. 15 agenda packet, this proposal to exit Civil Service follows "lengthy discussions" with the police department and two police unions. The funding, according to Ells, "will cover the costs associated with the internal police department working groups that will be formed to work with their union representatives and the outside consulting/legal services that will be needed to assist with the process." The funding is a one-time request and would come from the town's general fund reserves, which presently have a balance of $29,148,778. "It is anticipated that upon completion of this process, an item will be brought before the Town Council to request removal of the sworn members of the Barnstable Police Department from the Civil Service," Ells wrote. What is the Massachusetts Civil Service? Among other functions, Civil Service provides hiring and promotional exams, both for internal and external searches, and ranks candidates for consideration; town hiring officers or panels must follow certain protocols throughout. According to the Massachusetts Municipal Association, critics of the system find it too cumbersome and restrictive, making it difficult to attract candidates. The Massachusetts Legislature enacted the Civil Service system in 1884 as a means of combating corruption, cronyism, and political interference in hiring and discipline within certain services, such as police and fire all issues that are now avoided through collective bargaining. Barnstable adopted the provisions of Civil Service in 1937. The MMA last month reported that a special legislative commission is studying the Civil Service Law and considering proposals to modernize the system. Heather McCarron writes about climate change, environment, energy, science and the natural world, in addition to news and features in Barnstable and Brewster. Reach her at hmccarron@capecodonline.com, or follow her on X @HMcCarron_CCT 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: Barnstable Police Chief Matthew Sonnabend retired. What happens next? Across Kyivs sandbagged government compound, officials will have a lot more time on their hands. Since it became clear, in October 2023, that the Ukrainian Army would not achieve its counter-offensive aims, debates about General Zaluzhnys tenure have raged through Kyivs corridors of power. The peripatetic drama culminated in the Ukrainian Presidents announcement on Thursday that General Zaluzhny had been relieved from the post of Commander in Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The media storm concerning political and military divisions had become an untenable distraction from what President Zelensky insists are the urgent changes needed to revitalise the nations battle-stricken forces. In the event, Zaluzhnys dismissal, and replacement by Oleksandr Syrsky, commander of the Ukrainian ground forces, was rather anti-climatic. General Zaluzhnys decision to remain in the Presidents team, while perhaps difficult on a personal level, is a mark of true patriotism one that stands in stark contrast to some anti-Zelensky politicians efforts to exploit divisions at the top for their own personal political gain. Ultimately, war cannot be reduced to personalities alone. President Zelenskys personnel changes are rooted in the failures of the counter-offensive and the need to find a new strategy for a new stage of the war. As General Zaluzhny acknowledged in his characteristically dignified announcement: The challenges we faced in 2022 are not the same challenges we face in 2024. All of us must change and adapt to these new realities. Like all of Ukraines highest commanders, Zaluzhny had a chance to put his adapted war strategy before the President during a recent meeting of the Ukrainian High Command. General Syrsky and General Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukraines Military Intelligence, made the strongest impression on the President. It is strongly rumoured that Zelensky had hoped to appoint General Budanov as Commander-in-Chief, with General Syrsky as the head of the General Staff. In the end, it was evidently felt that Budanov is better suited to his current role, although his charisma would have made him a politically-convenient choice. General Zaluzhnys popularity among the population and the troops make him a hard man to replace. General Syrsky is less charismatic and less politically visible, having spent much of his time at the front in the east. But he has worked closely with Zaluzhny throughout the full-scale war and before and he has a string of military achievements to commend him. Syrsky oversaw the defence of Kyiv during the brutal early days of the full-scale invasion which he received the Hero of Ukraine. What is more, he assumed responsibility for this role at a time when others, in the Territorial Defence, balked at the magnitude of the task. General Syrsky was also the commander of the remarkably successful 2022 Kharkiv counteroffensive. Schooled in the Soviet system, Syrsky is a disciplined man who is not afraid to rise to the challenge and demands the same of his troops. The attritive battles for Bakhmut and Avdiivka have led to a characterisation of him as a man who does not spare soldiers lives. However, it is unclear what could reasonably be expected of any commander in his position. Russias offensives in the east have been brutal, with waves upon waves of men launched against Ukrainian positions in meat storms. In recent months, Ukraines allies have repeatedly failed to deliver on promised equipment and ammunition, further exacerbating the imbalance between the warring armies. In this light, Syrskys approach of extracting as many Russian men and equipment as possible for every inch of ground ceded is understandable. It is not only Ukrainian troops that are battle-stricken. Despite having Avdiivka three-quarters surrounded since last autumn, the Russians have yet to fully take the city. These are weaknesses for Ukraine to exploit alongside the challenges it must meet during the build year of 2024. Eventual Ukrainian victory will depend on whether the country can batten down the hatches against Russias meat storms and Western especially Washingtons political turbulence. The goal for the President and Army alike is to see the Ukrainian people through into a more hopeful 2025. Before then, there will be a number of politically-unpopular changes, including expanded mobilisation and changes to staffing and rotation within the army. Wars of survival rarely fit into neat, uplifting narratives. Russias war on Ukraine is no exception and it will continue to take a heavy grave toll on Ukrainian soldiers and civilians. But while some of Ukraines allies offer promises they cannot keep, General Syrsky may just be the tough man needed for the very tough times to come. Dr Jade McGlynn is a Research Fellow at The Department of War Studies at Kings College, London. She is the author of Memory Makers: The Politics of the Past in Russia and Russias War . Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) Senate Republicans are accusing President Joe Biden of waging a war against their natural gas producing states after he ordered a freeze on new liquid natural gas exports. The group of GOP lawmakers argues the move delivers a win to Russia while cutting jobs back home. However, the Biden administration said the U.S. needs to reassess its exports for economic and environmental reasons. President Biden is trying to commit energy suicide, said U.S. Sen. John Kennedy, (R-La.) Its going to hurt the economy, its going to hurt the American people, and its going to hurt our friends, particularly in Europe. Biden pauses approvals of natural gas exports LNG exports had skyrocketed as the U.S. urged European allies of Ukraine to stop buying Russian natural gas and buy American. But now, U.S. Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, (R-Miss.), said that money will go right back to our adversaries. I mean, its like, Youre welcome, Russia,' Hyde-Smith said. The Biden administration argues the U.S. will remain the worlds top gas exporter while it studies the impacts on the economy, climate change and national security. Frankly, I think it would be irresponsible if we werent taking a step back, said David Turk, the U.S. Energy Departments deputy secretary. Big Pharma CEOs in the hot seat on Capitol Hill During a Senate Energy Committee hearing Thursday, Turk told lawmakers the U.S. is already on track to double these exports because of projects already approved and under construction. These kinds of numbers give me great confidence that we are taking care of our allies, he said. Turk stresses American workers also wont lose out since the temporary pause only impacts construction years down the line. Those jobs are not at stake here, he said. Those projects continue. However, the issue is even dividing lawmakers who typically side with the Biden administration. You really leaped before you looked, said U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin, (D-W.Va.). Thats all were saying. I think its just the opposite, Mr. Chairman, said U.S. Sen. Angus King, (I-Maine.). Theyre doing their job. Their job is to see that these projects are in the public interest. Republicans are now working on legislation to reverse President Bidens freeze. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. Tom Holland is back in the spotlight as he leads the upcoming West End revival of Shakespeare's "Romeo & Juliet" under "Sunset Boulevard" director Jamie Lloyd and his production company, The Jamie Lloyd Company, which recently declared as independent. The director gave the announcement in a statement quoted by Playbill last Tuesday, Jan. 6, where he said: "Tom Holland is one of the greatest, most exciting young actors in the world. It is an honor to welcome him back to the West End" Opening night is yet to be formally announced, that said, the production's run is set at the Duke of York's Theatre in London from May 11 through August 3. Priority booking will open on Feb. 13 at 8 AM GMT, while the general sale will go online at noon. Tom Holland's West End Return, Following Break Holland is fresh off of an 8-month-long break, announcing his mental health reprieve in June of last year during an interview with Extra. The actor will take on the Shakespearean role as his first acting gig since returning. The young actor is perhaps most known as the current masked superhero icon that is "Spiderman," alongside his appearances as an action star in other franchises like "Uncharted." Despite his inclination to lead in action-packed projects in Hollywood, Holland has an established history with theatre, especially after his West End debut performance in "Billy Elliot The Musical" where he played the titular character's friend Michael. Later in the run of that particular production, Holland also starred as Billy. The upcoming stint as Romeo will be the actor's second appearance in the famed London theatre strip. He will take after many high-profile stars who have starred as Romeo, including Sir Ian McKellen, Sean Bean, "Harry Potter" actor Alfred Enoch, and "Bodyguard" star Richard Madden. Alongside Lloyd's company, David Binder Productions will also produce the forthcoming stage revival. Read Also: 'The Who's Tommy' Broadway Revival's Complete Casting Has Been Announced, Rehearsals to Start 2024 Classicalite All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. KINGSPORT, Tenn. (WJHL) Bays Mountain Park will partner with a local yoga instructor to host a Valentines Day Partner Yoga class on Wednesday, Feb. 14. The event will take place from 5-6 p.m. at the Farmstead Museum in Bays Mountain Park, located at 853 Bays Mountain Park Road. The cost of attendance is $6 per person, with a limited class size of 12 people. Participants are encouraged to bring their spouse, child, significant other or friend. Valentines Day events and happenings in the Tri-Cities It is recommended that all attendees wear exercise clothing and bring their own yoga mat and sealable water bottle. All levels of experience are welcome. For more information on registering for this event, visit here. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather. A village in Brandeburg, north-eastern Germany, made up of a crossroad and 80 residents, became a microcosm of the country last week. As darkness pressed in on Freienthal, protesters whistled and brandished soccer-style red cards at cars heading toward the local village hall. Outside the hall, people grabbed a beer and a bratwurst before taking their seats inside, ignoring calls from the protesters down the road to come and talk. They came for an evening of conversation with the Alternative fur Deutschland (AfD), Germanys leading far-right party. To one camp, this meeting represented a call for political change; to the other, a risk to German democracy. That vehement disagreement is one being played out across the nation as it heads towards regional elections in September. After far-right gains in several European countries, most notably in the Netherlands and Italy, Germany may follow suit. The organizer of the anti-AfD protests in Freienthal, Adam Sevens, told CNN that the AfD plans only reveal the xenophobia, hatred and bigotry that exists in this country. Now is the time for us to stand up. That sentiment may not be unfounded. One attendee, a nurse who refused to give her name, told us she was happy someone was speaking up for her, adding: Im glad that someone is taking care of all this scum that has spread here in our country, in our beautiful Germany it really is a state. Members of the audience at the AfD meeting in Freienthal. - Chris Stern/CNN Inside the hall, three prominent AfD lawmakers from the region, Brigit Bessin, Lars Hunich and Marlon Deter, took turns to address the 50-strong crowd, each emphatic message met with applause and banging of fists on tables. Littered around the room was propaganda: leaflets pointing to left-wing extremism across Germany and posters with Trumpian undertones, one reading our country first. Warped message Part of the AfDs strategy to win votes is to claim they are more transparent than Germanys main political parties. The AfD says it is giving a voice to the people who are not being heard in Berlin. In the hall in Freienthal, the speakers were happier to latch on to populist debates and conspiracy. Among the topics covered were QAnon, the Covid pandemic and whether climate change is real. A teacher who refused to give her name told CNN as she left that she was voting for the AfD because they were finally standing up for the citizens and are slowly doing what we want, and we want to be part of the government. Being part of the federal government is not likely for the party any time soon, but regionally they are an expanding force. Berndt the extremist Dr Hans-Christoph Berndt, is the head of the AfD in the Brandenburg region. He has been branded as a right-wing extremist by German intelligence. Recently hes been outspoken about a secret meeting of right-wing extremists, that took place in Potsdam, Brandenburgs regional capital, and the subsequent nationwide protests. The secret meeting allegedly discussed the deportation of asylum seekers and German nationals of foreign origin under the guise of remigration. Members of the AfD and even Berndts own press officer attended. The AfD has officially tried to distance itself from the reports, saying it was not an official party meeting. But the issue of immigration for the party is front and center. Berndt said recently remigration is not a secret but a promise,, a message he reiterated in an interview with CNN. We have to do this because a country that does not protect its borders, and a country that is open to anyone who comes, whether they have a reason or not, cannot exist, he said, adding that the federal government is not putting the interests of the indigenous population first, but rather putting others first. A sign in the sleepy town of Frienthal advertises the AfD meeting. - Chris Stern/CNN Coalition of the discontented Germans may not agree on the policy of immigration or the rhetoric around it, but one thing even the government admits is that it is not helping itself. The coalition built by Chancellor Olaf Scholz is creaking, with infighting, disagreements about policy and accusations that elected officials no longer represent the values they were initially elected for. Scholz himself is polling at one the lowest figures for a German chancellor ever. Omid Nouripour is the head of the Green party, one of the coalition partners. He told CNN, We have to improve a lot of things, especially the performance of our coalition. We are delivering a lot of solutions but the public debates we have on it are far too loud. Current polling data puts the coalition on course for a sizeable national election defeat with the AfD coming in second place if a vote were held tomorrow. AfD fill the void The polls in the regions, particularly three of the states that made up the former East Germany Brandenburg, Thuringia and Saxony are a reflection of a sense of abandonment and that the government is not listening. The AfD is stepping into the void. In those three states the AfD is leading in the polls ahead of Septembers regional elections. That, in turn, is fueling the partys confidence. Dr Berndt says that the government is obviously unable or unwilling to change its policies. And this policy is driving sympathy and voters to the AfD. He insists victory is on the horizon in the regional votes. The dissatisfaction is growing dramatically, and the economic data is abysmal the problems are growing and the AfD is the only relevant opposition party in Germany. Protesters against the AfD demonstrate down the road from the meeting. The signs say: 'How many more Hitler documentaries do you need?' And: 'If the AfD is the answer, then how stupid was the question?' - Chris Stern/CNN Dr Conspiracy As the partys support grows, however, so does the backlash against it. The AfD and Berndt are trying to spin that angst as a government-controlled conspiracy. This is not about people getting up and making some kind of demand against a government, but the government and pro-government media and pro-government organizations calling on people to demonstrate against the opposition, he said. I am 100 percent certain that without the government campaign, people wouldnt be out on the street. But the AfD knows it has a struggle on its hands, as opponents of the party vow to keep protesting. Sevens, the organizer in Freienthal, said the demonstration there encapsulated the mood of many: It signals that a large community in Germany is now standing together, standing up and clearly positioning itself in favour of the fact that we dont want this. Not in Germany. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Lukashenko signs decree exempting military from accountability for using firearms against civilians. Ukraine's former ambassador to Belarus becomes ambassador-at-large to exiled Belarusian Democratic Movement in major shift in Kyivs official position on Belarus. Belarus and Russia plan to unify their lists of extremist individuals and organizations, allowing more joint political targeting and coordinated repression of opposition. UK Intelligence reports less than 1,000 Wagner mercenaries now remain in Belarus. Crackdown on relatives of regime's political opponents intensifies as Belarusian courts hand down first sentences for alleged "use of foreign aid to carry out extremist activities. Subscribe to the Newsletter Belarus Weekly Join us Lukashenko waives responsibility of military for using firearms against civilians Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko has signed a decree amending the general military regulations of Belarus Armed Forces, lifting their responsibility for injuring or killing civilians. An updated clause, published on Feb. 3, eliminates the requirement to fire warning shots and removes any servicemans responsibility for using a weapon against the countrys citizens. However, in the case of injury or death, the army must notify the prosecutor and the preliminary investigation body. In the vaguely worded amendments to the regulations, the evolving situation, the nature of the crime (or) administrative offense, and the personality of the offender are now introduced as factors in a servicemans decision to use firearms. Earlier amendments to counter-terrorism legislation approved by the Belarusian Parliament on Dec. 7, 2023, allowed officers from the notorious Belarusian KGB secret service to use firearms on crowds. Belarusian opposition leader Pavel Latushka said the legislative updates are a purposeful campaign to normalize killings, to normalize the use of firearms against those who disagree with the regime, and Belarusians in general. Read also: National Resistance Center: Belarusian secret police ramps up pressure on Ukrainians in Belarus Ukraine appoints ambassador-at-large to Belarus democratic opposition Former Ukrainian Ambassador to Belarus Ihor Kyzym has been appointed ambassador at large to the exiled democratic movement of Belarus, headed by opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya. Kyzym announced the Foreign Ministrys decision on Feb. 2 on his Facebook page. Obviously, any issue related to Belarus is currently of a special nature, Kyzym said. Based on this, my responsibilities include, among other things, issues related to the democratic forces of Belarus as a part of the Belarusian society that opposes the policy of the current leadership of Belarus. While the regime of Lukashenko sided with the Kremlin in its war of aggression and provided its territory for an assault on Kyiv in the early days of Russias full-scale invasion, Ukraine did not immediately sever its diplomatic relations with Minsk. Ukraines ambassador to Belarus of five years, Kyzym, remained in Minsk until April 18, 2023, when Belarusian dictator Lukashenko met with Denis Pushilin, a Russian proxy leader in a Russian-occupied part of Ukraines Donetsk Oblast. After being recalled for consultations, the Ukrainian ambassador was withdrawn on June 22, 2023. Currently, diplomatic relations between Kyiv and Minsk remain at their lowest ever point. Belarusian people and their supporters, many with historical Belarusian flags, take part in a march in Vilnius on Aug. 9, 2023. (Petras Malukas/AFP via Getty Images) The move also marks a departure by Kyiv from its earlier strategy of maintaining a distance from the Belarusian opposition in exile: Zelensky is yet to officially meet Tsikhanouskaya, who is generally regarded by Western leaders as a legitimate representative of Belarusians. With the appointment of an ambassador-at-large, Kyiv is following the footsteps of other European nations, such as Lithuania, Poland, and Sweden, all of which now have special envoys to Belarusian opposition rather than the Lukashenko regime. Belarus, Russia to create joint list of extremist organizations and individuals Belarus and Russia are to unify their lists of extremists and extremist organizations, Belarusian Ambassador to Russia Dzmitry Krutoy told the press on Feb. 6. As reported by Belarusian state-owned news agency BelTA, Krutoy said that the interior ministries of both states have been in talks regarding the issue and are working to produce a combined list of extremists in actual fact, political opponents of the respective regimes in Minsk and Moscow is underway. Of course, there is a need for more coordination among the security agencies here, (but) I think this will be resolved in the near future, Krutoy added. Belarus and Russia both use their anti-extremism laws to target political opponents. The Belarusian Information Ministry oversees the list of extremist materials, which features almost all independent media, hundreds of Telegram channels, and chats. Meanwhile, the Belarusian Interior Ministry maintains a list of individuals involved in extremist activities, which currently has 3,753 entries. Critics of the regimes in Russia and Belarus say unifying the respective countries lists of extremists would allow for more politically motivated cases. Read also: Short-lived rise of Boris Nadezhdin, Putins anti-war opponent UK Intelligence reckons under 1,000 Wagner mercenaries remain in Belarus Fewer than one thousand Russian Wagner Group mercenaries remain in Belarus, likely continuing training for Belarusian military and security forces, U.K. Defense Intelligence stated on Feb. 4. Wagner mercenaries arrived in Belarus after Wagner Chief Yevgeny Prigozhins armed insurrection launched on June 23, 2023, abruptly came to an end. Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko allegedly helped broker a deal to relocate the mutinous Wagner troops to Belarus. Lukashenko and his officials suggested that the Wagner troops could help train the Belarusian military. The first six convoys of Wagner mercenaries arrived in Belarus on July 18, the Belarusian monitoring group Belarusian Hajun reported at the time. At its peak, the reported number of Wagner mercenaries in the country reached 8,000 people. European Union and NATO members Poland, Latvia, and Lithuania called for the bolstering of the Western allies eastern defenses following reports of Wagners deployment in Belarus and threatened to completely shut their borders with Belarus should a critical incident involving the Wagner Group occur. The number of mercenaries stationed in Belarus declined after Prigozhin was killed in a plane crash on Aug. 23 in Russias Tver Oblast. In late January 2023, Alexei Bergovin, a Wagner mercenary and currently an instructor for the Belarusian security forces, claimed that more than 300 Wagner instructors in several training centers currently remain in Belarus. Read also: Opinion: Why the Russia sanctions are failing Viasna: Belarusian courts started sentencing detainees for using foreign aid to carry out extremist activities Belarusian courts have, for the first time, handed down sentences for the gratuitous use of foreign aid to carry out terrorist and other extremist activities or other actions prohibited by law, the Viasna Human Rights Center reported on Feb. 5. The Viasna human rights activists said they believe the authorities were targeting the families of political prisoners who received financial aid from solidarity initiatives. This is the arbitrary persecution of people who have not violated any legal rules, () Viasna human rights advocate Pavel Sapelka said. Sapelka suggests the provision of aid to families is becoming an excuse to launch prosecutions. The Belarusian KGB secret service on families of political prisoners and former detainees on Jan. 23-24, with over 200 people across the country being detained. The activists linked the mass raids to an emergency food assistance project called INeedHelpBY, which was supporting those who have lost their income due to political repression in Belarus. The Belarusian KGB earlier designated the project an extremist formation. The United States has condemned the raids and reiterated the need for sanctions to hold the regime of Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko accountable. Polands Foreign Affairs Ministry has also called for a new sanctions package in response to the intensified crackdown. European Parliament members Juozas Olekas, the chair of the Delegation for Relations with Belarus, and the European Parliaments Standing Rapporteur on Belarus, Petras Austrevicius, issued a joint statement urging Belarus to cease repression and release all political prisoners. Since the fraudulent presidential elections of 2020, Lukashenko has tightened his grip on power through wielding brute force. Currently, his regime is holding hostage nearly 1,500 political prisoners, with hundreds of new detentions every month. Supporting a convicted prisoner can cost families over $2,000 a year, while the officially reported average salary in Belarus is roughly $582 a month, human rights activists say. After jailing political opponents, the Lukashenko regime is now harassing the families of political prisoners if they receive virtually any form of support. Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The city of Belleville was already planning to demolish a derelict building when a homeless man was found dead in the garage last month. Officials had worked for a year to secure the property on North Illinois Street and get permission from a St. Clair County judge to tear it down, according to Scott Tyler, the citys director of health, housing and building. The owner failed to respond to legal notices, resulting in a default judgment. On Jan. 24, the city requested bids for demolition work. That was five days after police found the frozen body of Trent Tuttle, 41, in the garage, which had been gutted by fire on Jan. 9. (Demolition plans were) all in play before the fire, Tyler said. It was just a coincidence that it happened around the same time. County parcel records date the two-story brick structure at 520 N. Illinois St., just north of Belleville Farmers Market, back to 1877. It has been used for both residential and commercial purposes. In recent years, the building went down the same path as dozens of others that have been bought by anonymous, out-of-state investment companies, allowed to deteriorate and eventually abandoned, making way for squatters to move in and fill them with trash, drug paraphernalia and human waste. The city spends hundreds of thousands of dollars a year to demolish condemned buildings, prioritizing those with safety issues. (These investment companies are) destroying whole neighborhoods by buying homes at county tax auctions, Tyler said. They dont do anything with them, except let them fall apart. The phenomenon has caused not only headaches for neighbors and city officials but also heartache for residents working to preserve Bellevilles 200-year-plus history. Many of the destroyed and deteriorating structures are considered architecturally significant. A notice on the front window of a building at 520 N. Illinois St. in Belleville deems it unfit for human occupancy or use. In back, squatters have strewn trash and debris inside and outside and painted graffiti on walls. Teri Maddox/tmaddox@bnd.com Once a vacuum cleaner store Bob Brunkow, historian for Belleville Historical Society, describes 520 N. Illinois St. as a brick townhouse with cornice dentils reminiscent of details on German American folk houses. Brunkow believes it was built between the 1870s and 1890s by German immigrant Johann Mueller, a cooper who manufactured barrels, and his wife, Elizabeth, or their daughter and son-in-law, Elizabeth and Henry Jungbluth. He hasnt been able to find early deeds or mortgages. The house gave shelter to four generations of an extended family, Brunkow said, noting they also took in lodgers at times. In 1941, the family sold the building, which continued to serve as a residence. From 1969 to 1991, the lower level housed a Kirby vacuum cleaner store with living quarters upstairs. Occupancy of the building (since 2005) seems spotty, Brunkow said. County records show the property was sold for $32,000 in 2005 and $47,500 in 2011, although the latter included three other parcels. In both cases, owners were publicly named individuals. Dave Buttig, who lives next door with his wife, Kathy Buttig, said a father and son planned to open a business in the building at one point, but that fell through. Owner Randel Keller stopped paying property taxes in 2017, according to Whitney Strohmeyer, president of Joseph E. Meyer & Associates, St. Clair Countys trustee and delinquent-tax agent. Three years later, the county foreclosed and listed the property for sale at auction. We checked with the city, but they didnt want to buy the building and condemn it at that point because (housing officials determined) it was still in fairly good shape, Strohmeyer said. Bars over windows on the first floor of a building at 520 N. Illinois St. in Belleville were keeping squatters from entering, but a stairway allowed them to reach the second floor, above. The city removed the stairway. City of Belleville/Teri Maddox Sold at auction for $5,950 St. Clair County sold the North Illinois Street property in 2020 for $5,950, the highest of five bids, to Topstone Inv CAH 1, a limited-liability company organized in Missouri with a post office box in Blue Springs, a Kansas City suburb. LLCs in that state dont have to reveal names of their principals. Topstone paid property taxes for the years 2021 and 2022, Strohmeyer said. Tax bills for 2023 havent yet been sent. Squatters took over the building and garage about a year and a half ago, according to neighbors. The yard became an eyesore with trash and debris, tall grass and overgrown trees. Dave Buttig, 71, said he and his wife worried that someone might break into their house or start a fire that could spread. Its so close, he said. The propertys deteriorating condition also negated the pride the couple took in their own historic home and landscaping. They occasionally called police, who would come out to investigate, but even if squatters were chased away, they returned in a day or two, Buttig said. The situation also made life uncomfortable for neighbor Lanita Lyles, 44, her husband and three children. Its one thing for the property to be vacant, Lyles said. There are vacant properties everywhere. But this kind of thing brings down the community. This is a very quiet community. Everybody really keeps to themselves. Its safe and secure. But ever since we started seeing people over there, Ive never let my children play in the back yard without me being there. Lyles said she and her husband noticed an increased city presence last fall and that made them feel better. Tuttles family knew he sometimes stayed at 520 N. Illinois St., and it was their tip that prompted police to return to the scene of a Jan. 9 fire and find his body on Jan. 19. Fire Chief Stephanie Mills said he was between two walls on the unstable upper level of the garage. County Coroner Calvin Dye Sr. declined to comment on whether Tuttle was burned or if he died of smoke inhalation. Were waiting on the autopsy results, Dye said. These satellite images show Belleville homes at 217 N. Jackson St., top row, and 221 N. Sixth St. in 2013 and 2023. Both were owned by Topstone Inv CAH 1 as of 2022, the most recent year for online county parcel searches. Goggle Maps Failed search for absentee owner In the past year, Belleville officials have sent code-violation notices and other legal correspondence to Topstone but received no replies, according to Tyler. In May, they filed their petition in St. Clair County court. As required by state law, Topstone has a registered agent in Illinois. Its a branch of the national company Registered Agents Inc. with an office in the Chicago area. RAI representative Erica Martin confirmed that the identify of the LLCs principal or principals is private. If you want to send a communication (to the owners), you can send it to our Illinois office and well upload it and notify them, she said. Tyler estimates that he has gone to the North Illinois Street building a dozen times to try and secure it. Iron bars on windows and doors largely kept people from entering the first floor, he said, but people repeatedly broke into the second floor, removing boards over entrances. After the court case ended in November, the housing department sawed off the exterior staircase to a second-floor balcony. That has worked pretty well, Tyler said. The North Illinois Street property isnt a one-off for Topstone Inv CAH 1 and affiliated companies, which include Topstone Investment, Topstone Inv STL 1 and Topstone Bayflip CAH 1. As of 2022, the most recent year for online parcel searches, the four limited-liability companies owned 143 properties in the county, including nine in Belleville and the rest in East St. Louis and Cahokia. In 2022, Belleville School District 118 bought a boarded-up home at 1326 E. Main St. from Topstone Inv CAH 1 for $2,500 and demolished it. The two-story frame home was built in 1907, according to parcel records. It took awhile for us to get ahold of the owner, and we worked with the city on it, said Assistant Superintendent John Hart. (The home) looked horrible next to our school. The district plans to convert the vacant lot into additional parking for Douglas Elementary School and Belleville Head Start. Belleville School District 118 bought the boarded-up, two-story home at 1326 E. Main St., right, from the limited-liability company Topstone Inv CAH 1 two years ago and demolished it. At left is the districts Head Start center. Google Maps $400,000 for demolitions last year The remaining seven Belleville properties that Topstone Inv CAH 1 and its affiliates owned in 2022 include homes and vacant lots at 315 N. 39th St. and 221 N. Sixth St. and homes at 507 N. Jackson St., 217 N. Jackson St. and 2106 E. Main St. Only one is occupied. The rest are boarded up or condemned. The city has started the court process to get permission to demolish two of the homes, according to City Clerk Jenny Meyer. Theyre not very good property owners, Tyler said. The Illinois secretary of states office maintains an online list of business entities that operate in Illinois. It includes a physical address for Topstone Inv CAH 1 at a Blue Springs strip mall and gives the name but no contact information for Andrew Chiu, designated as manager. Last year, Meyer said the city was spending $9,000 to $20,000 each on demolitions of derelict structures. Tyler predicts the cost will be much higher for 520 N. Illinois St. and an apartment building on South Third Street thats part of the same bid package. Bids are due Feb. 15. The city spent about $400,000 on demolitions last year, Tyler said. Officials recently approved a contract to tear down 13 more structures this spring at a cost of nearly $230,000. We file liens on the properties for those costs, and if nobody pays that, like the bank or the owners, then we foreclose on the liens, maybe six months later, Meyer said. Thats how weve acquired a lot of our vacant lots. When told that the North Illinois Street building would be demolished this year, neighbors expressed relief. Dave Buttig said he and his wifes bizarre experiences associated with the property culminated on Jan. 19, when they were at home watching TV and looked out the window to see authorities carrying a body out of the garage, which had burned 10 days earlier. I want to have empathy and compassion for (homeless people), Dave Buttig said. But ... Its just all so hard to figure out. The garage shed behind a condemned two-story building at 520 N. Illinois St. in Belleville burned on Jan. 9. Ten days later, authorities found the body of a homeless man in a cubby hole on the upper level. Joshua Carter/jcarter@bnd.com These images show subtle changes in the condition of a vacant two-story brick building at 520 N. Illinois St. in Belleville. They start in 2007 (left to right, top to bottom) and continue in 2013, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022 and 2023. Google Maps An angry and animated President Joe Biden on Thursday hit back at a Republican prosecutors claim that his memory is faulty in last-minute remarks to reporters on Thursday. Earlier in the day, the Department of Justice released a report by Special Counsel Robert Hur, the former Maryland US Attorney who Attorney General Merrick Garland charged with probing how classified documents ended up at Mr Bidens home in Delaware and former office in Washington. Mr Hur did not recommend that Mr Biden face criminal charges, citing what he described as significant mitigating factors which led him to state that charges were not warranted and would not have been warranted even if Mr Biden were not president and barred from being prosecuted by Department of Justice policy. The Republican prosecutor also noted that Mr Bidens memory about the documents was significantly limited during his interviews with investigators, and included details in the report about Mr Bidens presentation during interviews which appeared tailor-made to fit claims by former president Donald Trump and his allies that the president is not mentally competent. At one point, he claimed that Mr Biden did not remember what year his late son, Beau Biden, had died from brain cancer, and he described part of an interview in which the president, in his telling, had trouble keeping track of the years during which he served as vice president. Mr Bidens took umbrage at the suggestion, raising his voice in anger. Theres even referenced that I dont remember when my son died how the hell dare he raise that? he said. Frankly, when I was asked the question, I thought to myself, it wasnt any of their damn business! The president pointed out that he still wears a rosary which belonged to his late son on his wrist, and attends a yearly memorial service to mark the anniversary of his death. I dont need anyone to remind me when he passed away, he added. Mr Biden explained that hed taken time to sit for interviews with prosecutors and investigators just days after the 7 October terrorist attacks on Israel by Hamas militants, and criticised Mr Hur for going beyond his brief in the report. Their task was to make a decision about whether to move forward with charges in this case ... and they decided not to move forward, he said. As for what he described as Mr Hurs extraneous commentary, Mr Biden said the former Trump appointee did not know what he was talking about, adding that such things had no place the report. Asked about Mr Hurs description of him as a well meaning elderly man with a poor memory, the 81-year-old president conceded that he is, in fact, elderly. Continuing, he added: I know what the hell Im doing. However, elsewhere in his comments he mixed up Mexico and Egypt while talking about the situation in the Middle East. President Joe Biden issued an executive memorandum Thursday night stipulating human rights conditions on all U.S. military aid after weeks of pressure from Senate Democrats concerned about Israels reported violations in Gaza. But the White House said Friday it does not expect Bidens executive action to result in the suspension of military aid to Israel. The executive action reiterates existing U.S. human rights laws governing arms transfers. There are no new standards in this memo, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said at a Friday press conference. Instead, we are spelling out publicly the existing standards by the international law, including the law of armed conflict. The executive memorandum requires any military aid recipient, including Israel and Ukraine, to submit written assurances it will comply with human rights laws or lose U.S. assistance. All countries that receive U.S. military aid are already required to adhere to these standards under existing human rights laws. These include the Foreign Assistance Act and the Leahy laws, named after their author, former Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt. The Leahy laws cut off security aid to specific units of foreign militaries if the Pentagon and the State Department determine a country has committed a gross violation of human rights, such as shooting civilians or summarily executing prisoners. We did brief the Israelis on this, said Jean-Pierre. They reiterated their willingness to provide these types of assurances. Leahy, former administration officials and some lawmakers and congressional staffers say the arms transfers laws referenced in the memorandum have not been applied to Israel across multiple administrations, despite credible reports of human rights abuses. A spokesperson for the White House National Security Council told Defense News we have not seen any violations of the standards so have no plans to restrict assistance at this time. Sarah Harrison, who was the Pentagons lead attorney for Leahy law human rights vetting between 2017 and 2021 and now is a senior analyst at the International Crisis Group think tank, said the memorandum appears to be another performative measure by the Biden administration to kind of stave off critics because they were getting a lot of heat from the Senate on this. Israel and Ukraine signed similar agreements in December 2021 pursuant to the Leahy laws stating they will not transfer U.S.-provided security assistance to an ineligible military unit if the State Department determines its responsible for a gross human rights violation. The State Department has given Kyiv a list of Ukrainian units that have committed human rights violations, rendering them ineligible for U.S. security assistance, but has not done the same for Israel. Jean-Pierre noted the White House memorandum emerged in part with our discussions with members of Congress as lawmakers struggle to pass Bidens $95 billion foreign aid request that includes $14 billion in additional military aid to Israel and $60 billion in more support for Ukraine. Sens. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., and 18 members of the Democratic caucus have introduced an amendment to the spending bill that would reinforce existing law under the Foreign Assistance Act. The provision bans military aid to countries that obstruct the delivery of U.S. humanitarian assistance. A December Human Rights Watch report found Israel is using starvation as a weapon of war in Gaza, amounting to a war crime. Bidens executive memorandum largely mirrors language in Van Hollens amendment. Van Hollen and his allies first started discussing the language with the White House in December. The Senate is expected to vote on final passage of the $95 billion foreign aid bill over the next few days, but senators may not have opportunities to offer amendments. The bills fate in the House is also unclear amid substantial Republican opposition to additional Ukraine aid. Thrust into an election year that had already been defined in part by voters concerns over the presidents age and fitness for office, special counsel Robert Hurs report amounted to a legal victory but a political landmine for President Joe Biden. The presidents outrage on Thursday night made that obvious. Bidens aides know there is no topic more likely to draw their boss fury than a slight against his family. So it was hardly a surprise to many inside the White House when an indignant Biden emerged Thursday to forcefully rebut, among other things, a claim in Hurs report that he had forgotten the date of his sons death. How in the hell dare he raise that? Biden seethed in the Diplomatic Reception Room, where reporters had been hastily gathered for a presidential statement. His visceral anger among the brightest public flashes to date of what aides say is a mostly private hot temper reflected a sentiment that had been boiling inside the White House for several days, since the presidents lawyers first received a copy of the report Hur prepared following his investigation into Bidens handling of classified documents. Behind the scenes, Bidens aides fumed at a portrait they said was wholly unfair and, more importantly, nothing close to the person they say they interact with every day. Nearly to a person, Bidens aides use words like sharp and tireless when describing their boss, particularly when he is dealing with foreign conflicts or world leaders. They recount lengthy meetings in the middle of the night, whirlwind round-the-world foreign travel and hour-long rope-lines to illustrate a man they claim hasnt lost a beat. Democratic Rep. Daniel Goldman of New York, who spoke by phone with Biden a day ahead of his October 8 interview with Hur, said the president was sharper than anyone Ive spoken to about the situation in the Middle East, which at the time was unraveling. His mastery and command of a complicated geopolitical situation was just impeccable, Goldman said, adding he couldnt know what occurred in Bidens interview with Hur. I dont know what happened in there. Bidens anger bursts into public view As details of the public report were emerging, Biden grew livid at some of the details included in the final version about his recollection of date and details. In a private meeting with Democrats in Virginia on Thursday afternoon, Biden cursed when venting his anger. In the meeting, Biden asked how anyone could believe he would forget the day his son died, using profanity to punctuate his fury, according to people familiar with his comments. How would I f****** forget that, Biden said, according to one of the people. People in the room interpreted the forceful response as a sign of just how upset the report had made the president. Bidens outrage exploded into public view Thursday evening, as the president derided the allegations about his memory as extraneous commentary and claimed Hur and his team dont know what theyre talking about. It has no place in this report, Biden said before batting away questions from reporters about his fitness for office. My memory is fine, he insisted. Moments later, as he was responding to a question about the crisis in Gaza, Biden mistakenly referenced Mexico when he meant Egypt precisely the type of slip-up his rivals seize upon to question his mental acuity, and a clear indication that the concerns about Bidens fitness wont be dispelled by a single, fiery news conference. Hur a former Trump Justice Department official declined to bring charges and made a point of saying Bidens handling of classified documents compared favorably to Donald Trumps. Yet the words Bidens lawyers used when describing Hurs document were scathing: inappropriate, inaccurate, wrong, extraneous, unfounded and irrelevant. The source of their ire: Multiple depictions of Biden as forgetful, unable to remember some of the most important dates of his life or the contours of a decade-old policy debate. In a phrase that appears destined to factor heavily in the coming campaign, Hur said Biden presented himself in an interview as a well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory. Bidens defenders leapt to defend him, saying the depictions were inaccurate, over the top and even ageist. And the president said Hur got at least some of that description right. I am well-meaning. And Im an elderly man, he said. And I know what the hell Im doing. Ive been president I put this country back on its feet. I dont need his recommendation. Still, if Hurs claims about Bidens memory had occurred in a vacuum, separated from what Americans were already seeing and hearing, they would perhaps have appeared less credible. But because they arrived at a moment when American voters were already reckoning with the presidents age and mental fitness and, in polls, expressing deep concerns about both the words only buttressed what will be Bidens biggest political challenge over the coming nine months. On Thursday, however, Biden summarily dismissed concerns about his age even those shown in public polling ascribing instead the worries to the media. That is your judgment. That is your judgment, he told CNNs MJ Lee, raising his voice. A persistent annoyance for Bidenworld In public, however, Biden can at moments appear forgetful, as he did this week when he verbally transposed the names of former (and deceased) foreign leaders with present-day ones. In those episodes, Biden was describing an international summit in 2021 when he recalled speaking with German Chancellor Helmut Kohl, who died in 2017, and French President Francois Mitterrand, who died in 1996. There are other signs of his age as well. He has slowed noticeably, with a stiff gait his doctor has ascribed to previous injuries. And he clears his throat so often a symptom of reflux, according to the physician that he sometimes has to explain himself, as he did at a fundraiser this week when he said he had swallowed a cough drop. Only about 45 minutes before Hurs report was released publicly, the White House was working to downplay the verbal slip-ups, saying its common for people to misspeak. Many people, elected officials they can misspeak sometimes, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said, citing recent examples from House Speaker Mike Johnson and TV host Sean Hannity. She said in meetings shes attended with Biden, she had never witnessed him confuse peoples names. There is little that irritates Biden or White House officials more than public questioning of the presidents age and acuity, making Thursdays report a wellspring for frustrations and forceful pushback. One official told CNN that they viewed some of the criticism outlined in the lengthy report as way out of line and just wrong. White House officials were particularly aggrieved by allegations in the report about Biden having memory and recall problems during his multi-hour sit-down with Hur in October, including about Beau Bidens death. This official said that as the multi-hour interview got underway in the fall, Hurt acknowledged to the president that he would be asking about some things from a long time ago and prompted Biden to recall things to the best of his ability and thanked Biden for doing the interview in the middle of a serious international crisis. Of course, he was understandably distracted and managing a crisis in Israel and the Middle East, the official said. To now retrospectively go back and suggest it is indicative of some bigger issue with memory is wrong. Its just wrong. Perhaps the biggest objection among White House officials was a reference in the report that says Biden did not remember, even within several years, when his son Beau died. He remembers the day Beau died every day of his life, this official said. To suggest otherwise is insulting. A strategy unfolds As the Biden campaign pivots to general election mode, senior campaign officials insist that the best remedy for concerns related to the presidents age is for voters to see him out and about and campaigning as much as possible. There has already been a notable uptick in traditional retail politics stops for Biden in the new year drop-bys at diners and small businesses where he is meeting voters and working the room. Ahead of the reports release, the biggest concern among Bidens aides was that Republicans would seize on its findings about documents found in the presidents home and conflate them with the far more significant legal risks facing Trump for his own handling of classified material. As it turned out, the report delineated clearly between the two cases, pointing to several material distinctions between Mr. Trumps case and Mr. Bidens. Instead, it was the questions of mental acuity that were immediately glaring to Biden aides and lawyers who viewed the report ahead of its public release. A strategy of embracing the legal findings while forcefully challenging the irrelevant critical commentary had been taking shape in private for several days. The White House and Bidens outside lawyers had been engaging with the special counsels office on the report since at least Monday, when they strongly rebutted the claims about Bidens memory as gratuitous and not supported by the facts in a letter. The report was released anyway, with the objections of Bidens lawyers included but only toward the end of the nearly 400-page report. Bidens team pointed to the timing of his interview in the two days following the October 7 terror attacks in Israel to demonstrate a leader preoccupied with world events rather than instant historical recall. I was in the middle of handling an international crisis, Biden said Thursday about an hour after the report was released. CNNs MJ Lee contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com By Jeff Mason and Andreas Rinke WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. President Joe Biden said Congress would be guilty of "close to criminal neglect" if it failed to pass funding for Ukraine and thanked German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Friday for his leadership in securing German military aid for Kyiv. Scholz, who was making a whirlwind stop in Washington to lend his support to Biden's efforts to obtain funding for Ukraine, met with the president at the White House to discuss Russia's war with its smaller neighbor as well as the crisis in the Middle East. Speaking to reporters before the meeting, Scholz said he had been encouraged by the U.S. Senate's move on Thursday to advance a $95.34 billion bill that includes aid for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan after Republicans blocked compromise legislation that had included reforms to immigration policy. The White House has sounded warnings for months that a failure by lawmakers to provide aid to Kyiv would hurt its ability to fight Russia two years after Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. "The failure of the United States Congress, if it occurs, not to support Ukraine is close to criminal neglect. It is outrageous," Biden said in the Oval Office, in front of a blazing fire, with Scholz seated next to him. "I'm very happy that in Europe we made now decisions to get the necessary financial support to the budget," said Scholz, speaking in English. "Also that Germany was ready to increase its support with weapon delivery." He added: "And hopefully Congress, the House, will follow you and make a decision on giving the necessary support." Scholz met with U.S. business executives to talk about investment opportunities in Germany before joining Biden at the White House for talks about the two crises that are dominating world politics. Germany had made decisive contributions lately in support of Ukraine repelling a full-scale Russian invasion, he said. "Now, the same must happen in the rest of Europe and also the United States," he said, noting that Russian President Vladimir Putin was counting on support for Ukraine withering. He said his meeting with U.S. senators on both sides of the aisle on Thursday evening reassured him that foreign policy and security experts in the U.S. Congress understood the need for sustained support for Ukraine. Scholz said Putin had recounted "a completely absurd story about the origins of this war" in his interview with conservative U.S. talk-show host Tucker Carlson that aired on Thursday. "There is a clear cause and that is the will of the Russian president to annex part of Ukraine," he said. Asked about Putin's suggestion of a prisoner swap - U.S. journalist Evan Gershkovich of the Wall Street Journal, who has been detained in Russia for nearly a year, in exchange for Vadim Krasikov, who was convicted of the 2019 murder of a Chechen dissident in Berlin - Scholz said such issues should be discussed confidentially. The European Union approved a four-year, 50 billion-euro ($54 billion) facility for Ukraine last week. Ukraine, which aspires to join the NATO military alliance, relies on Western nations for military support and financial backing. White House spokesperson John Kirby said on Thursday that Biden and Scholz also were likely to discuss the situation in Gaza and "what together we can do as ... strong allies to continue to make sure that Israel has what it needs to defend itself and humanitarian assistance gets into the people that need it." They were also likely to discuss the threats by Houthi rebels to international shipping in the Red Sea, he said. (Reporting by Jeff Mason and Andreas Rinke in WashingtonAdditional reporting by Steve Holland in WashingtonWriting by Jeff Mason and Sarah MarshEditing by Matthew Lewis) Southwest Research Institute scientist and former NASA associate administrator Alan Stern greets friends and family upon landing from space after completing the Galactic05 space mission by Virgin Galactic at Spaceport America on Nov. 2, 2023, in Truth of Consequences, N.M. Ivan Pierre Aguirre/Ivan Pierre Aguirre/Contributor Southwest Research Institute develops small satellites. Courtesy of Ian McKinney An artists rendering depicts Southwest Research Institutes spacecraft for NASAs PUNCH or Polarimeter to UNify the Corona and Heliosphere mission to study solar winds. The mission, which is scheduled for a 2025 launch, recently passed its NASA design review. Courtesy SwRI A self-driving hybrid car navigates a course at Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio in 2017. Billy Calzada, Staff / San Antonio Express-News Research engineers David Spielman, left, and Tyler Marr work together to program a robot for a demonstration project at Southwest Research Institute. Sam Owens, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer Kelly Smith, an engineer at Southwest Research Institute, stands inside SwRIs new aerospace acoustic testing chamber and explains how it works on Oct. 27, 2023. The sound chamber room can reach up to 150 decibels to simulate acoustic energy from a rocket launch, which is used to test weaknesses in equipment. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News Research engineer Ty Templin throws a pitch captured by the Engine for Automatic Biomechanical Evaluation, a markerless biomechanics system, at Southwest Research Institute in June 2023. With current software, biomechanical images are captured by placing markers on the participants body. With this system, the software facilitates the capture of movement without markers and in greater detail using artificial intelligence and can be used in real life settings. Applications for the system are wide ranging, from military to athletics. Jerry Lara/San Antonio Express-News Southwest Research Institute the San Antonio-based nonprofit that touts its work as ranging from deep sea to deep space built on its wide portfolio to generate a record high $844 million in revenue in 2023. That was up 5.8% from its previous record of $798 million a year earlier as SwRI grew its net assets by 8.1% to $765 million from $708 million. Advertisement Article continues below this ad It also invested more than $9.3 million in internal research and development, launching 103 new projects last year. SwRI drives science and technology into new territory with bold exploration, inspiring ideas and novel discoveries, President and CEO Adam Hamilton wrote in the institutes annual report. SwRI is a research and development leader, forging ahead through the unknown to uncover creative solutions to the worlds most challenging technical problems. Anyone who breathes, flips a light switch, drives an auto, rides on trains or airplanes, uses a computer or looks to the heavens has probably benefited from SwRIs work. Its new report provides several highlights for 2023 while offering a glimpse toward the future. An engineer works beside a mock-up of a Southwest Research Institute satellite called the Cyclone Global Navigation Satellite System satellite as he works on another satellite for a future mission called Polarimeter to UNify the Corona and Heliosphere, which will track and measure solar winds that emanate from the sun. Kin Man Hui, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer Power, transportation SwRI which, as its motto suggests, has simulated some of the harshest environments from the oceans depths to distant space completed construction last year of a 30-inch-diameter deep sea simulation chamber to evaluate the quality and operation of components for oil producers, underwater parts manufacturers and the U.S. Navy, Hamilton said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad One of SwRIs biggest accomplishments in 2023 was opening a $155 million supercritical transformational electric power plant with help from GTI Energy, GE Vernova and the U.S. Department of Energy. Its a long-term project for developing new technology that uses carbon dioxide at supercritical fluid conditions extreme temperature and pressure instead of water in a compressor to create power. SwRI said the method is more efficient, sustainable and cheaper than other methods and could revolutionize power generation. Its also looking at blending hydrogen into natural gas streams to reduce carbon emissions from conventional natural gas power generation, and it helped develop a process for converting wood pulp into a refinery feed. And SwRI recently invested in a 17,000-gallon liquid hydrogen tank to facilitate its carbon-free energy research, and its an adviser to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission on radioactive waste storage, transportation and disposal. SwRI also contributes to the transportation industry by making smart highway systems, creating autonomous cars, and optimizing the fluids and fuels in vehicles. In 2023, it continued its focus on sustainable mobility and transportation to lower greenhouse gas emissions as it looks at technologies such as electrified power trains and alternative fuels with an eye on creating low- or zero-emission and energy-efficient vehicles. The nonprofit capped a 10-year project to reduce air polluting nitrogen oxides in future heavy-duty diesel trucks by 90%, and it continued its study of fuels from across the country, performing 200,000 analyses on almost 43,000 gas nozzles. Advertisement Article continues below this ad SwRIs automated driving systems can travel on and off road, with some even meant to operate in combat conditions. And beside automations, SwRI is connecting vehicles to a network that continually assesses conditions and adjusts to ensure the timeliest and most energy-efficient trips. According to its annual report, a quarter of the U.S. population use roads supported by the SwRIs Intelligent Transportation Systems. Texas is among 16 states that use the SwRI system to manage their roads. In addition to promoting clean vehicles, SwRI is working with freight rail companies to analyze the impacts of transitioning locomotives away from petroleum-based fuels. The High Reliability Systems Laboratory at Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio develops computing and network solutions for spacecraft operations and satellite communications. SwRI recently developed a micropatching algorithm to remotely update and repair spacecraft software using less time and data than conventional techniques. Courtesy of SwRI Data, disease, defense SwRIs work includes computer science, such as advanced artificial intelligence and neuromorphic engineering thats helping computers learn more like a human, as well as cybersecurity work thats helping enhance zero-trust architecture that verifies every network interaction. Advertisement Article continues below this ad And with respect to actual humans health, it has developed a platform to manufacture biopharmaceuticals, including a new method in partnership with the University of Texas at San Antonio to synthesize an antimalarial drug that could save thousands of lives. Its also developed antivirals targeting hemorrhagic fevers, including the Ebola, Marburg and Sudan strains. 'A STEP TOWARD THE FUTURE': SwRI advances self-driving technology as VIA eyes possible applications Its Rhodium 3D modeling software that uses artificial intelligence is helping SwRI close in on an effective treatment for these deadly diseases. SwRIs work also helps manufacturers with automation via its Robot Operating System-Industrial, an open-source project to help integrate robots into industrial applications. And the nonprofit operates the Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center that helps with automation and process improvement. SwRI also has a defense and security business thats heavily focused on electronic warfare the ability to combat enemy electromagnetic signals. Its working with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, whose projects are largely classified, on small gadgets to monitor high-frequency radio signals. Advertisement Article continues below this ad And theres a backpack reminiscent of something from a Bond film or Inspector Gadget cartoon that sprays a slippery anti-traction material that makes surfaces impossible for people or vehicles to traverse. Robert Tucker, a principal engineering technologist at Southwest Research Institute, runs a demonstration test on SwRIs new Aerospace Acoustic Test Chamber on Oct. 27, 2023. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News Air and space The sky is hardly the limit for SwRI scientists whose work in aerospace is helping keep old military planes flying and unlocking new secrets of the cosmos. Theyve redesigned the Air Forces B-1B bombers fuel system and the A-10s mission computer. And theyre working on extending the life of aging aircraft such as A-10s and T-38 trainers. T-38s currently fly at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph and other training bases. Boeings T-7A Red Hawk is slated to replace the T-38 by 2034. SwRI is looking at hypersonics technology and materials with a range of ballistic launch facilities and flight ranges that provide extreme hypersonic flight environments. A leader in space research, SwRI scientists and engineers not only study the universes phenomena, but they also build instruments and spacecraft and lead five NASA space missions. Those missions include Juno, which continues its exploration of Jupiter and its moons; New Horizons, a craft journeying through the Kuiper Belt beyond Neptunes orbit; four magnetospheric multiscale, or MMS, satellites that are looking at the Earths magnetosphere; the 12-year-old Lucy mission to study Jupiters Trojan asteroids, which explored an asteroid called Dinkinesh in early 2023; and the Polarimeter to UNify the Corona and Heliosphere, or PUNCH, mission scheduled for a 2025 launch to study the solar corona and winds. Also in 2023, SwRI delivered the three instruments that it built for NASAs Europa Clipper spacecraft thats scheduled to begin its journey to Jupiters icy moon Europa in October. Closer to Earth, NASA selected SwRI to lead the Center for Lunar Origin, which will further research about the moon. Its also leading the development of instruments for a future lunar lander/rover. And SwRI is working on other projects for NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, including an interstellar mapping and acceleration probe, a solar wind plasma sensor, a quicksounder weather satellite, and a micrometeorioid and orbital debris detector. It enhanced its capabilities by building out its space integration facility that now includes an acoustic test chamber with speakers that can generate sound at 150 decibels to simulate the rigors of a rocket launch on sensitive equipment. It created a space robotics center. Semafor Signals Insights from Semafor, the BBC, and The Atlantic The News U.S. President Joe Biden strongly hit back at the findings of a special counsel report, denying that he improperly shared classified documents or forgot when his son died. My memory is fine, he said during a surprise news briefing Thursday. I know what the hell Im doing. I put this country back on its feet. The report comes days after Biden publicly misremembered the names of multiple world leaders, confusing both former German chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron with their dead predecessors, and referring to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi as the president of Mexico when discussing the Israel-Hamas war. SIGNALS Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories. Report will fuel opponents attacks as voters worry about Bidens age Sources: Semafor, The Associated Press A poll last year found that more than three quarters of Americans thought Biden, 81, was too old to run for a second term as president: That number includes 69% of Democrats. Bidens advanced age has been a frequent sticking point as the president enters his reelection campaign, and Special Counsel Robert Hurs report will fuel political opponents, who have attacked Biden about his memory, Semafors Shelby Talcott noted. Hurs observations about Bidens apparent memory problems are a gift to [former President Donald] Trump in an election where the leading candidates age and competency are at the forefront of conversations, she wrote. Reports findings are a political grenade, confirming Democrats concerns about Bidens weakness Sources: BBC, The New York Times Questions about Bidens age and mental faculties have swirled for the majority of his term in office, and were raised during his 2020 run for president, the BBCs Anthony Zurcher noted. Hurs findings were a political grenade in the form of a 345-page report, he wrote, and prompted Bidens camp to launch a campaign to fiercely deny them. But that denial could open him up to further scrutiny: Every attempt comes with the risk of actions or evidence that feed existing concerns, Zurcher said. The report confirmed veteran Democrats longtime concerns that something would come along to remind voters about the age issue, The New York Times Micheal D. Shear wrote, which many feel is Bidens biggest weakness. Presidents age becoming an unavoidable topic in lead up to election Source: The Atlantic Its no longer possible to avoid conversations about Bidens age, The Atlantics Helen Lewis wrote. Conversations about the age and health of presidential candidates have proliferated in past elections, and Biden has been largely protected from hard questions about his mental faculties by his party. The result is that conversations about the presidents age have stalled out, she noted. Voters should watch recent speeches by Biden and ask themselves honestly if you believe that the man you see has another four years of presidential decision-making ahead of him, Lewis wrote. If not, then reconcile yourself to the fact that you are really voting for Kamala Harris. Media coverage of Bidens age is overblown and feeds into ageism Sources: Journalist Michael Hobbes, Time The media is putting the Biden memory story through the Hillary Emails wringer, journalist and podcaster Michael Hobbes wrote on Bluesky, in which outlets devote breathless coverage to how a meaningless gaffe raises questions and highlights concerns. The media, he argued, both creates and amplifies those concerns, and then reports on how theyre getting worse. The debate over Bidens age has descended into ageism, Mauro Guillen, Vice Dean at The Wharton School, wrote for Time last year. Bidens experience and abilities should counterbalance his age, Guillen argued. Americans now live longer than ever before, so instead of debating whether an aging person can hold office, we should be celebrating the fact that a second term would reflect the increasing diversity of American society in terms of age. President Biden on Thursday admonished Israel in some of his strongest terms yet over its response to the Hamas attacks last October. Im of the view, as you know, that the conduct of the response in Gaza Strip has been over the top, Biden said in remarks from the White House. He noted that he had pressed Egypt President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi whom he mistakenly called the president of Mexico to open the gates to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza, and had done the same with Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Ive been pushing really hard, really hard to get humanitarian assistance into Gaza, Biden said. There are a lot of innocent people who are starving, lot of innocent people who are in trouble and dying. And its got to stop. Bidens criticism of Israel comes as his administration is making a concerted push to achieve a temporary cease-fire between Israel and Hamas to allow for the release of Israeli hostages held in the Gaza Strip, the scale-up of humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza, reconstruction and space for diplomacy to discuss an end to the war. Some Democrats, and many members of the Arab American community, have been critical of Biden given his initial staunch support for Israel following the Oct. 7 attacks that left more than 1,000 Israelis dead. More than 25,000 Palestinians have been killed in the subsequent strikes in Gaza, which is controlled by Hamas. Biden has in recent months shifted his language, however, pushing Israel to be more targeted in its military campaign and urging officials in the region to allow humanitarian supplies into Gaza. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. President Joe Biden on Thursday described Israels war against Hamas in Gaza as over the top" in a news conference at the White House. In response to reporters' shouted questions, the president expounded on his push for aid in Gaza and said the ongoing violence has to stop. There are a lot of innocent people who are starving. A lot of innocent people in trouble and dying. And it has to stop, Biden said. Biden has taken flak from the Democratic Party's left flank over his support for Israel's recent actions in the Gaza strip. His Thursday remarks were some of his sharpest criticism yet of the U.S.'s Middle Eastern ally. The president further said that Egypt's president Abdel Fattah el-Sisi "initially ... did not want to open up the gate to allow humanitarian material to get in. I talked to him. I convinced him to open the gate. Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), a critic of Israel's conduct as it retaliates against Hamas, said of Biden's comment, "A just war still needs to be weighed justly." The president's main focus in the news conference was addressing the special counsel report released Thursday supporting the Justice Department's decision not to charge Biden for mishandling classified documents. Many of us had suspected it, but now we appear to have proof: Joe Bidens presidency is an irresponsible con, perpetrated against the free world. Concerns about the US presidents suitability for office have been raised ever since he ran for the White House back in 2020. You didnt need to be a doctor to read the signs. He could be unsteady on his feet; he often didnt seem to remember things clearly; he kept on fluffing his words. He was an old 77. Anyone who pointed this out at the time, however, was accused of politically-motivated ageism. Because much of the criticism was coming from his political opponents, the notion that he wasnt up to being president was dismissed as a smear campaign. The US establishment media largely turned a blind eye to Bidens obvious deficiencies because they didnt want Donald Trump to occupy the Oval Office for another four years. They glossed over Bidens occasional incoherence and ineptitude because no one could be worse than the orange neanderthal who had pledged to Make America Great Again. Big tech was accused of joining in the effort to back Biden at all costs by burying a New York Post story about his son Hunters laptop, a story which contained serious allegations against Hunter. The virtual censorship was so effective that very few journalists followed up the exclusive. During the last presidential campaign, Bidens team sought to shield him from too much exposure, made easier by the fact a pandemic was on. And following his entry into the White House in January 2021, he has spent much of his presidency bungling through occasional press conferences with very little pushback from the anyone-but-Trump reporters who had conspired to propel him to power. Drunk on the vindication of the January 6 Capitol riots, they appeared to take the insurrection as evidence not only of Trumps unfitness for office but also Bidens supposed suitability. Yet time and again, he has proved them wrong, not just with hapless public appearances but actual policy. Remember July 2021, when Biden assured the nation and indeed the world that, following the withdrawal of American troops there would be absolutely no collapse of the Afghan army or government? He even made a reference to Vietnam, insisting that there would be no Saigon-like airlifting from the roof of the US embassy. Look at how that turned out. Such was the presidents belligerence, built on years of being falsely lauded as the saviour of civilised society, that he refused to take any questions after everything went pear-shaped in Kabul. Yet at 81, and seemingly more confused than ever, there is now no hiding Bidens obvious lack of mental acuity by either the press or public. Last May, a Washington Post-ABC News poll found that only 32 per cent of respondents believed Biden had the mental sharpness to be effective in the White House. Fast forward to this week, and a NBC News poll found that three-quarters of voters (76 per cent), including half of Democrats, say they now have concerns about Bidens mental and physical health. It is perhaps worth noting that this survey was conducted before America was privy to a report by special counsel Robert Hur, who investigated Bidens storage of classified documents. Hur said that he did not think Biden should be prosecuted over secret papers that were discovered in his garage but questioned significant limitations in his memory. In interviews with Hurs office, Biden did not remember when he was vice president, asking in two separate and alarming instances if it was 2013 when did I stop being vice president? and in 2009, am I still vice president? He did not remember, even within several years, when his son Beau died. And his memory appeared hazy when describing the Afghanistan debate that was once so important to him, noted Hur. Concluding that jurors could have been persuaded that Biden didnt return those materials because he forgot he had them in his house, Hur wrote: [At] trial, Mr Biden would likely present himself to a jury, as he did during our interview of him, as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory. But if Biden is too elderly and forgetful to stand trial, what makes him fit to be president, either now or in the future? This unvarnished truth has been spelt out by a neutral arbiter not by someone politically partisan. Yet still the attempted cover-up continues. Hur has now been accused of trashing the subject of an investigation with extraneous, unfounded and irrelevant critical commentary. Clearly Bidens people did not want this information to be made public. But the truth of the matter is that just as it was irresponsible to put Biden into office, so too is it irresponsible to keep him there. Not just irresponsible, but irrational. Asked on Thursday why he was running again, Biden arrogantly replied: Im the most qualified person in this country to be President of the United States and finish the job I started. These do not seem to be the words of a man in touch with reality. At the same press conference, we had to endure the spectacle of the leader of the free world defending himself against claims his memory isnt what it once was, while going on to refer to Egyptian leader Abdel Fattah el-Sisi as the president of Mexico. It came after he also apparently forgot the name of Hamas and confused French president Emmanuel Macron and former German chancellor Angela Merkel for their dead predecessors. It would be fine if this were an episode of Veep, the US equivalent of The Thick of It, but this is a real-life president whose actions and decisions have real-life consequences. Moreover, this is arguably the most precarious period in world affairs since the end of the Cold War. The main takeaway from Tucker Carlsons interview with Vladimir Putin this week is that the Russian leader is completely unhinged. The Middle East could yet boil over into a much more serious conflict. And China continues to threaten Taiwan. Meanwhile, Western economies are facing a fragile future, with growth forecasts looking depressingly weak. Is Biden fit for a second term? Almost certainly not. Is he fit to be president now? Perhaps not. If the Democrats had any sense, they would gently encourage him not to run again and start immediate work on finding a more credible replacement than Kamala Harris, which, lets face it, really shouldnt be that difficult. Indeed, if they hadnt spent so much of the past few years finding ways to stop Trump being re-elected, they might actually have come up with a viable Democratic alternative. Instead, theyve allowed Biden to so demean and diminish himself that Trump looks positively competent by comparison. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. The No. 2 official at the Energy Department defended the Biden administrations move to pause new permits for some natural gas export projects as tensions among lawmakers flared at a Senate hearing Thursday. Deputy Energy Secretary David Turk, testifying before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, fielded questions from a number of lawmakers, especially Republicans, who opposed the pause. Russia continues its brutal war in Ukraine Irans proxies are waging a terrorist campaign against Israel, Sen. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) said. In times of war, is it wise to give our allies and partners and neutral parties across the world an excuse to do business with our enemies? Weve already tripled just over the last five to six years in terms of our export, Turk responded. You look at that huge growth, and then you compare that with what our allies need. The Biden official said the climate portion of the federal governments review would focus on both leaks of potent plant-warming gas methane from existing operations as well as the long-term impacts of exporting the fuel. A scenario consistent with achieving our net-zero goals says we need 75 percent less liquified natural gas exports around the world by 2050, so those are stark numbers, and weve got to take that very much into account, he said. The administrations pause, which applies to not-yet-approved projects that would ship gas abroad, has been met by significant pushback, with Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) joining Republicans in criticizing it Thursday. If we were talking about considering a pause, this is a great, great panel for this. You have an executive order doing a pause, Manchin said. They put the cart before the horse You really leaped before you looked. Sen. Angus King (I-Maine), who caucuses with Democrats, proceeded to defend the administrations move during a heated exchange with Manchin. I think its just the opposite, King shot back. Their job is to see that these projects are in the public interest, theres no way to do that without the data. You cant do the pause first though, Manchin said. So theyre supposed to continue approving projects? Continue approving projects when you find out five years from now it was a disaster I dont think thats a very good plan, King responded. Manchin later added that the pause was ill-advised because its sending out to the world right now that we might not be in the market. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. (Bloomberg) -- US President Joe Biden criticized the extent of Israels military campaign in Gaza, as tension builds over Israeli plans to push into Rafah, where more than one million people have sought refuge. Most Read from Bloomberg The conduct of the response in the Gaza Strip has been over the top, Biden said Thursday at the White House. There are a lot of innocent people who are starving. A lot of innocent people who are in trouble and dying. And its got to stop. The presidents comments marked an escalation in his criticism of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus prosecution of the war against Hamas. They came after the Israeli leader previewed plans for ground forces to enter the city of Rafah, which lies to the south of Gaza and near the Palestinian territorys border with Egypt. Israel launched airstrikes in the area overnight, killing at least eight Palestinians, the Associated Press reported. The White House has expressed concern about the fate of refugees gathered in and around Rafah, saying it would not support an offensive that did not account for the impact on civilians. A military operation there right now would be a disaster for those people and its not something that we would support, US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said on Thursday. Rafah is the main point of entry for aid coming from Egypt. The south of the strip is were around half of Gazas 2.3 million people fled to in the early part of the war as Israel concentrated its assault on Gaza City in the north. At the White House, Biden said hes pressured the Israeli government to allow more humanitarian aid into Gaza. His administration is working toward a sustained pause in military operations to allow for the release of hostages taken by Hamas, designated a terrorist group by the US and European Union. The Iran-backed group killed 1,200 people when its militants broke out of Gaza and rampaged through southern Israel on Oct. 7. Israels retaliatory air and ground offensive has killed more than 27,000 people in Gaza, according to health officials in the Hamas-run territory. Im pushing very hard now to deal with this hostage cease-fire, the president said. If we could get that initial delay, I think that we would be able to extend that so that we can increase the prospect that this fighting in Gaza changes. Hamas fighters abducted about 250 people during their incursion. Roughly 100 hostages were freed during an earlier, week-long truce that ended on Dec. 1. The fate of the remaining captives is dominating political discussion in Israel. The Israeli military has said that of the 136 still in Gaza, 31 are dead. The death toll in Gaza has raised international pressure on Israel, a key US ally, to bring the fighting to an end. It has also caused political complications for Biden ahead of the November presidential election, in which he is seeking a second term. In some swing states such as Michigan, Bidens losing support among Arab- and Muslim-Americans for not doing more to stop the war. --With assistance from Josh Wingrove and Hadriana Lowenkron. (Updates with Israeli operations in Rafah.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Mojo Nixon attends the world premiere of "The Mojo Manifesto: The Life and Times of Mojo Nixon" during the 2022 SXSW Conference and Festival at Stateside Theater on March 16, 2022 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Rick Kern/Getty Images for The Mojo Manifesto) Rick Kern/Getty Images for The Mojo Manife Portrait of Mojo Nixon of Mojo Nixon and Skid Roper at the Poplar Creek Music Theater in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, July 25, 1989. (Photo by Paul Natkin/Getty Images) Paul Natkin/Getty Images Mojo Nixon circa 1997. Needletime Records Mojo Nixon, the psychobilly legend, roots rock wild man, nemesis of Don Henley, enthusiast of Elvis Presley, the Loon in the Afternoon radio host, actor and all-around uncategorizable entertainer has died. He was 66. The artist formerly known as Neill Kirby McMillan died on the Outlaw Country Cruise, which departed Feb. 4 from Miami. He was a featured performer on the cruise with his band the Toadliquors, which includes Houston musician keyboardist Pete Gordon. He suffered a cardiac event the day after he performed, according to a post on his official Facebook page. A statement on his Facebook page read: Advertisement Article continues below this ad Passing after a blazing show, a raging night, closing the bar, taking no prisoners+ a good breakfast with bandmates and friends.A cardiac event on the Outlaw Country Cruise is about right & thats just how he did it. A North Carolina native, Nixon drew notice in the 1980s with a series of brash, comically uncategorizable songs like Elvis Is Everywhere, Debbie Gibson Is Pregnant With My Two-Headed Love Child and Don Henley Must Die. His first album with musician Skid Roper yielded the single Jesus at McDonalds. While humorous songs dont always enjoy long runs, Elvis Is Everywhere was comically reverent, while also acknowledging a cultural phenomenon that surrounded the late, great King of Rock n Roll. Mojo Nixon Credit: Bullethead Bullethead When I look out into your eyes out there, Nixon sang, When I look out into your faces, you know what I see? A little bit of Elvis. The song solved the mystery of disappearing vessels in the Bermuda triangle: Elvis needs boats. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Nixons personality permeated his recordings, but was best appreciated on stages before a crowd. On the stage of Austins Hole in the Wall in 1992 he memorably played Don Henley Must Die with an impromptu guest appearance by Henley himself. He was too big to be contained by just music. Nixon also appeared in film, including a role in the Jerry Lee Lewis biopic Great Balls of Fire. He was referenced in songs by the Dead Milkmen and Todd Snider. Nixon found his way to radio. And last year he was the subject of The Mojo Manifesto: The Life and Times of Mojo Nixon, a documentary film a decade in the making. Poster for Mojo Nixon shows including at the Continental Clubs in Houston and Austin. Art by Carlos Hernandez. Carlos Hernandez Nixon was a staple at both the Austin and the Houston Continental Clubs. He was the inaugural performer at the latter, when it opened in 2000. So a local tribute in the coming months seems likely. President Joe Biden issued one of his harshest responses to Israels assault in Gaza on Thursday, saying the countrys retaliation for Hamas Oct. 7 attack has been over the top. Biden was speaking to reporters Thursday night following the special counsel report about his handling of classified documents, and when asked about his efforts to see the remaining Israeli hostages held by Hamas released, the president said his administration has been pushing very hard to broker a temporary cease-fire. The conduct of the response in the Gaza Strip has been over the top, Biden said from the White House. There are a lot of innocent people who are starving, there are a lot of innocent people who are in trouble and dying, and its gotta stop. Thats why were pushing. Im pushing very hard right now to deal with this hostage cease-fire. Biden's full answer on Gaza. He calls the response from Israel "over the top," says he got humanitarian aid into Gaza adding "there are a lot of innocent people are starving. Lot innocent people or in trouble and dying. And it's got to stop" pic.twitter.com/EZM01RP9HX Andy Kaczynski (@KFILE) February 9, 2024 The president went on to say he had spoken directly with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi to bolster humanitarian aid to Gaza, saying the U.S. had been working really, really hard to support Palestinians. (He incorrectly referred to el-Sisi as the president of Mexico in his off-the-cuff remarks.) The White House did not immediately respond to a request for clarification. Biden hinted that the U.S. was actively involved in cease-fire negotiations, at one point stopping himself so he didnt reveal too much about any potential deal. He added the White House was pushing for a hostage cease-fire that could lead to a sustained pause in the fighting in the actions taking place in the Gaza Strip. I think if we can get the [cease-fire] I think that we would be able to extend that so that we could increase the prospect that this fighting in Gaza changes, the president said. Related... Aftermath of Israeli strikes, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip Aftermath of Israeli strikes, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip By Nidal al-Mughrabi and Emily Rose DOHA/JERUSALEM (Reuters) -Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered Israel's military on Friday to draw up a dual plan to evacuate Palestinian civilians from the crowded southern Gazan city of Rafah and defeat the last Hamas fighters there. His office announced the move as pressure mounted on Israel over its threat to launch a ground assault on Rafah, the last refuge for hundreds of thousands of Palestinians who are trapped in the city after fleeing fighting elsewhere. U.S. President Joe Biden said on Thursday Israel's response to the Oct. 7 attacks by Hamas militants was "over the top" and Washington said it would not support any military operation launched in Rafah without due consideration for civilians. Aid groups said there would be a high Palestinian death toll if Israeli forces stormed Rafah, and warned of the growing humanitarian crisis in the city, on the border with Egypt. "It is impossible to achieve the goal of the war without eliminating Hamas, and by leaving four Hamas battalions in Rafah. On the contrary, it is clear that intense activity in Rafah requires that civilians evacuate the areas of combat," Netanyahu's office said in a statement. "Therefore, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the IDF (Israel Defence Forces) and the security establishment to submit to the Cabinet a combined plan for evacuating the population and destroying the battalions." The statement, issued two days after Netanyahu rejected a Hamas ceasefire proposal that also envisaged the release of hostages held by the Palestinian militant group, gave no further details. Rafah has increasingly become the focus of Israel's military campaign in Gaza as its forces shift their offensive southwards in response to the Oct. 7 rampage by Hamas gunmen. More than half Gaza's 2.3 million people are now sheltering there, many of them penned up against the border fence and living in makeshift tents. Doctors and aid workers in Rafah are struggling to supply even basic aid and stop the spread of disease. "No war can be allowed in a gigantic refugee camp," said Jan Egeland, Secretary-General of the Norwegian Refugee Council, warning of a "bloodbath" if Israeli operations expand there. GAZAN CHILDREN ACUTELY MALNOURISHED In a further sign of the war's impact, almost one in 10 of Gazans under five are now acutely malnourished, according to initial U.N. data from arm measurements that show physical wasting. The charity ActionAid said some Gazans were eating grass. "Every single person in Gaza is now hungry, and people have just 1.5 to 2 litres of unsafe water per day to meet all their needs," it said. Gaza's health ministry said at least 27,947 Palestinians had been confirmed killed in the conflict, 107 of them in the previous 24 hours, and 67,459 injured. It has said many more could be buried under rubble from Israeli attacks since Hamas militants killed 1,200 people and took 253 hostages in Israel on Oct. 7, according to Israeli tallies. Hours before Netanyahu's statement, Israeli warplanes carried out new sorties in which Palestinian health officials said at least 15 people had been killed, eight of them in the Rafah area. "We were sleeping inside and, when the strike hit, were thrown outside. After that, another rocket hit," said Mohammed al-Nahal, an elderly Palestinian standing beside the rubble of a building that had been hit. "It destroyed the entire home. My daughter was killed. My daughter, her husband, her son, all were martyred." Israel's military said its forces had been in action in the area of Khan Younis and in northern and central Gaza to eliminate militant cells and destroy militant infrastructure. It says it takes steps to avoid civilian casualties and accuses Hamas militants of hiding among civilians, including at schools, shelters and hospitals. Hamas has denied doing so. BIDEN SAYS ISRAEL GOING 'OVER THE TOP' The U.S., Israel's main ally, has this week stepped up efforts to secure a ceasefire in Hamas-ruled Gaza, and also publicly criticised Netanyahu's government. "I'm of the view, as you know, that the conduct of the response in the Gaza Strip has been over the top," Biden told reporters at the White House on Thursday. Biden said he had been pushing for a deal to pause fighting to allow the release of hostages, increase the amount of humanitarian aid reaching Palestinian civilians, and normalise relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Hamas this week proposed a ceasefire of 4-1/2 months, during which remaining hostages would go free, Israel would withdraw its troops and an agreement would be reached on an end to the war. Netanyahu said on Wednesday that Hamas' terms, offered in response to a proposal drawn up by U.S. and Israeli spy chiefs with Qatar and Egypt, were "delusional" and vowed to fight on. Hamas says it will not agree to any deal that does not include an end to the war and an Israeli withdrawal. Israel says it will not withdraw or stop fighting until Hamas is eradicated. Hoping to spur peace moves, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited the Middle East this week, and a Hamas delegation arrived in Cairo on Thursday for talks with mediators Egypt and Qatar. Foreign ministers of several Arab states discussed Gaza on Friday at talks in Riyadh at which the United Arab Emirates called for more efforts to prevent the conflict expanding across the Middle East. (Additional reporting by Emma Farge in Geneva, Maya Gebeily in Beirut, Henriette Chacar in Jerusalem, Ahmed Eliman in Cairo, Steve Holland in Washington and Michelle Nichols in New York; Writing by Timothy Heritage; Editing by Miral Fahmy and Kevin Liffey) President Joe Biden responded forcefully Thursday night to claims about his poor memory leveled by Special Counsel Robert Hur, who cleared the commander-in-chief Thursday after an investigation into his handling of classified documentsbut landed several parting shots calling into question Bidens mental capacity. In the report, which some conservatives have already had a field day with, Hur wrote that Biden did not remember, even within several years, when his son Beau died. During live remarks from the White House just hours later, Biden took particular umbrage at that passage. How in the hell dare he raise that? Frankly, when I was asked the question, I thought to myself: It wasnt any of their damn business, Biden said. I wearsince the day he died, every single daythe rosary he got from Our Lady of he added, trailing off. Beau Biden died in May 2015 from brain cancer. Every Memorial Day we hold a service remembering him, attended by friends and family and the people who loved him. I dont need anyoneI dont need anyone to remind me when he passed away, Biden continued. Bidens Too Old and Forgetful to Be Prosecuted The simple truth is, I sat for a five-hour interview over two days, of events going back 40 years. At the same time, I was managing an international crisis, he said, referring to the Israel-Hamas conflict that flared up substantially last October after a brutal assault carried out by Palestinian militant group. The report concluded that the evidence does not establish Mr. Bidens guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, and that no charges were warranted. The report also made a clear distinction between how Biden cooperated with the investigation and how former President Donald Trump acted regarding the investigation into his own hoarding of classified documents. Trump ultimately was indicted on 40 felony counts in that case, including several related to obstruction. Their task was to make a decision about whether to move forward with charges in this case. That was their decision to make. Thats a counsels decision to make. Thats his job. They decided not to move forward, Biden said. For any extraneous commentary, they dont know what theyre talking about. It has no place in this report, Biden went on to say. The bottom line is the matter is now closed, and we can continue what Ive always focused on: my job of being president of the United States of America. The special counsel, however, weighed in on the significant limitations to Bidens memoryportraying it as one reason that he opted not to recommend charges in the case. At trial, Mr. Biden would likely present himself to a jury, as he did during our interview of him, as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory, Hur wrote. When asked about that passage, Biden quipped: Im well meaning, and Im an elderly man, and I know what the hell Im doing. After attempting to walk away from the podium, Biden was called back to answer questions about the conflict between Israel and Hamas, as well as the brutal campaign being waged in the Gaza Strip that has already killed tens of thousands of Palestinians. After mistakenly calling Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi the president of Mexicoa line that is sure to inflame critics concerns about his memoryBiden leveled some of his most substantial pushback to his counterpart in Israel since the conflict began. Im of the view, as you know, that the conduct of the response in the Gaza Strip has been over the top, Biden said. Im pushing very hard now to deal with this hostage ceasefire. There are a lot of innocent people who are starving, a lot of innocent people who are in trouble and dying, and its gotta stop. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. President Joe Biden blasts special counsel's assertion that he presents as an ''elderly man with a poor memory.'' A new study sheds light on teen drug use. And a student survives being shot in the head through her bedroom wall. Heres what to know today. Biden blasts special counsels mental fitness assessment Hours after special counsel Robert Hur released a report in Joe Biden's classified documents case, the president delivered an unexpected speech at the White House to address charges that he suffers from memory loss. How in the hell dare he raise that? Biden said, referring to Hurs assertion that he didnt remember when his son Beau died. In the report, Hur concluded that Biden willfully retained classified materials after his vice presidency, and his actions presented serious risks to national security for his handling of classified documents. But Hur declined to prosecute him. Part of the reason why was that the president could portray himself as an elderly man with a poor memory who would be sympathetic to a jury. The report refers to several moments during interviews with the president when he appeared to have difficulty remembering important details about his life. He did not remember when he was vice president, the report said, in addition to the timing of his sons death and a debate about Afghanistan. This is Morning Rundown, a weekday newsletter to start your morning. Sign up here to get it in your inbox. Biden, who is 81, first responded to Hurs report earlier in the afternoon, expressing satisfaction that no charges were brought. However, White House officials concluded Thursday evening that Biden needed to address the special counsels most damning allegations head-on and express his anger directly, two people familiar with the decision said. In his speech, Biden said, I dont need anyone to remind me when he passed away, referring to Beau. He later declared, My memorys fine, in response to a reporters post-speech question. When addressing another reporters question about the Israel-Hamas war, Biden mistakenly referred to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi as the president of Mexico, the third time he has mixed up world leaders this week. Read the full story here. Former President Donald Trump basked in his fourth victory on the road to a Republican presidential nomination, claiming all 26 of Nevadas delegates in the states GOP-run caucuses last night. Trump faced no major competition after most of his opponents dropped out of the race. Nikki Haley competed in the state-run GOP primaries earlier this week but lost by at least 30 points to none of these candidates. Ahead of yesterdays contest, Trump held rallies in Las Vegas, where he told voters the primary doesnt mean anything and instead urged them to vote in the caucuses. Trump also picked up a caucus victory in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The next stop for the Republican primaries is Haleys home state of South Carolina. Supreme Court dodges the insurrection question During yesterdays oral arguments in the Supreme Court over Colorado voters efforts to kick Trump off the Republican primary ballot, justices asked little about a key question: Was Jan. 6 an insurrection? Instead, the court looks likely to rule in favor of Trump on other grounds Based on the two-hour argument, it appears that a majority of the justices would find states do not have the authority to enforce Section 3 of the U.S. Constitutions 14th Amendment, which bars people who previously held government positions and engaged in insurrection from holding federal office. In dodging the insurrection question, justices asked about who gets to decide whether an insurrection took place, with several suggesting states should not have that power. The only justice to directly press the insurrection question was liberal Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson. Biden calls Israels Gaza offensive over the top Biden said Israels military offensive in Gaza has been over the top, offering what appeared to be his most pointed criticism yet of the U.S. allys response to the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks. He added that he was working to secure a sustained pause in the fighting, with a Hamas delegation in Egypt for new hostage talks after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed the militant groups counterproposal and vowed to push for total victory. The U.S has joined aid groups and United Nations officials voicing mounting fears about an Israeli incursion into Rafah, the Palestinian enclaves southernmost city where more than a million civilians are sheltering in dire conditions. Deadly new airstrikes hit the overcrowded border city overnight, after the U.S. warned that a ground offensive into the city without proper planning would be a disaster. Follow live updates here. What the CDC learned about teen drug use Many teenagers are using drugs and alcohol to cope with anxiety or depression, to relax or to stop worrying about a problem or forget bad memories, according to a first-of-its-kind study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released this week. The research set out to understand young peoples motivation for using drugs and looked at self-assessments from nearly 16,000 people ages 13 to 18. Among the biggest findings: 73% of teens used drugs as a way to feel mellow, calm or relaxed; 44% used them as sleep aids or to forget a problem or bad memories; and 40% used to cope with depression or anxiety. Experts say the findings are consistent with previous research but fear the deadly risks of teens using drugs alone, especially considering the spread of counterfeit prescription pills laced with illegal drugs. Ukraines dramatic military leadership shakeup Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy replaced his top general, army Cmdr. Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, after days of speculation and months of reported tension. Its not clear whether Zaluzhnyi was fired or resigned only that the shift came after a discussion of urgent changes needed in the army, according to a Telegram post from Zelenskyy. Now leading the countrys military through a faltering counteroffensive is Col. Gen Oleksandr Syrskyi, commander of Ukraines ground forces. Zelenskyys decision could raise questions from Western allies and fuel backlash at home, where his popularity is slipping. More on the Russia-Ukraine war: Vladimir Putin sat down with Tucker Carlson in his first interview with Western media since his troops invaded Ukraine in 2022. The Russian president covered a variety of topics but broke little new ground. Heres a recap. Aging infrastructure and a wave of accidents have left Russians freezing, revealing anger and frustration in a country where public criticism has been increasingly quashed. Police close case of two friends slain in Georgia Family members of two women and close friends who were gunned down in front of their home office are furious at Georgia authorities decision to close an investigation into a mysterious pair of shootings, which also left a third person dead. They didnt have enough decency to let the families know the case was closed, one womans niece said. She also claimed the investigation was riddled with issues and inconsistencies and a lack of attention. Besides a brief statement on Facebook, the Columbus Police Department has said little else about the case publicly. Last March, Ronisha Nikki Anderson and Juantonja Richmond were found fatally shot. Two days later, Solomon Adams, a convicted sex offender who lived next door, was found dead in his home. Todays Talker: The theft of a 200-foot radio tower... Telecommunication Tower (maumapho / Getty Images) forced a Jasper, Alabama, radio station to go silent and left the stations manager in disbelief. WJLX general manager Brett Elmore first learned about the crime from a cleaning crew this week. His initial reaction was What do you mean the tower is gone, interlaced with a few colorful words, he said. While authorities investigate, WJLX is hoping for a quick return to the airwaves. Politics in Brief NBC News poll: More people are rating Trumps presidency as better than expected in hindsight and Bidens presidency as worse than expected, according to a survey of voters. Prescription drug prices: Bipartisan lawmakers sharply criticized the CEOs of Johnson & Johnson, Merck and Bristol Myers Squibb at a Senate committee hearing yesterday as the Biden administration tries to bring down the price of the 10 costliest medications for Medicare recipients. RNCs future: The Trump campaign has openly signaled the person it would want to lead the Republican National Convention if Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel steps down: Michael Whatley, a North Carolinian with GOP establishment ties that some conservatives find concerning. Foreign aid: The Senate voted to proceed with a stripped-down $95 billion package that would provide aid to Israel, Ukraine and Taiwan after the chamber rejected a larger bill that included border security. Trump investigations: A federal investigation was launched after a potential witness against Trump in the Mar-a-Lago classified documents case received threats on social media, special counsel Jack Smiths office said in a new filing. Staff Pick: Its the Year of the Dragon Santiago Mejia / San Francisco Chronicle via AP file This year, expect a lot of good fortune but only if youre harnessing the animals most important quality: compassion. Lunar New Year which includes Chinese New Year, Seollal in Korea, Tet in Vietnam and more begins tomorrow. The dragon sign is perhaps the most popular zodiac creature, associated with a host of positive qualities such as nobility, wealth and wisdom. Long-term, it could also be the year in which major conflict can be resolved, if people can focus on empathy, one expert said. Jessi Prois, NBC Asian America editorial director News. Culture. The stories were talking about across our communities. Sign up for our newsletter from NBC Asian America. In Case You Missed It A college student in San Diego survived being shot in the head by an errant bullet that came through her bedroom wall. According to a police report, the bullet was fired by a Marine Corps Cpl. who was arrested on suspicion of negligently discharging a firearm. Buried in ash after Mount Vesuvius eruption in A.D. 79, hundreds of papyrus scrolls have kept their secrets hidden for centuries. Now, archeologists have deciphered some of the ancient text with the help of artificial intelligence. Vesivuis scrolls dating back 2000 years have been decoded. (Vesuvius Challenge) Select: Online Shopping, Simplified From Apples new Vision Pro Headset to algae cooking oil and Owalas latest water bottle, February has seen some notable releases. Heres what to shop this month. Sign up to The Selection newsletter for exclusive reviews and shopping content from NBC Select. Thanks for reading todays Morning Rundown. Todays newsletter was curated for you by Elizabeth Robinson. If youre a fan, please send a link to your family and friends. They can sign-up here. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Elijah Wood as Frodo and Sean Astin as Sam in "The Lord of The Rings: The Two Towers." The two stars will journey to San Antonio later this year for Big Texas Comicon, which runs Oct. 11-13 at the Convention Center. New Line Cinema One does not simply walk into one of San Antonios biggest comic book conventions unless youre two of the most beloved Hobbits on earth, Middle- or otherwise. The Lord of the Rings stars Elijah Wood and Sean Astin will join the fellowship of television and movie stars headed to this years Big Texas Comicon, which runs Oct. 11-13 at the Convention Center. Wood and Astin are famous for portraying the brave Hobbits Frodo and Sam, respectively, in the critically-acclaimed Peter Jackson films. Woods other roles include Walter Tattersall on the Showtime thriller series Yellowjackets, while Astin also has starred on Stranger Things. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Now in its fifth year, Big Texas has steadily stepped up its geek game with more stars and more fun at its annual pop culture fest. Other celebs on the Comicon roster include Daredevil title star Charlie Cox, actress Bonnie Wright (Ginny Weasley from the Harry Potter films) and Rebel Moon lead Sofia Boutella from the Zach Snyder sci-fi series on Netflix. GRAPHIC NOVEL TALENT: San Antonio area author shines with 'Amulet' graphic novel series Joining the Big Texas gang will be original Blues Clues host Steve Burns, plus fellow Blues hosts Josh Dela Cruz and Donovan Patton. And the Force will be strong with Star Wars animation fans with the appearance of Ashley Eckstein, the voice actress famous for portraying the original animated version of the character of Ahsoka Tano that led to the live-action series. (FOX40.COM) The city of Sacramento is inviting residents to enjoy some food, music and potentially go home with some exclusive merchandise as a part of Saturdays Black Heritage Festival. The event, which is a part of the Florin Road Community Beautification Project, will be hosted by the Sojourner Truth African Heritage Museum and will take place at the Florin Square Plaza from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday. April Breis, the citys Office of Arts and Culture Art program coordinator, said, This event will showcase the fantastic work which has been completed on behalf of the project and provide information on future projects planned for Florin Road. Manteca teenage cancer survivor gets surprised with Super Bowl tickets Activities such as mural painting and printing of branded T-shirts will be available for children and adults. Local bands, educational workshops, film screenings, and art exhibits will also be on display at the Black Heritage Festival. Participants will also enjoy food highlighting the African diaspora, cultural performances and exhibits, and giveaways, the city of Sacramento said. The Florin Road Community Beautification Project aims to improve the stretch of Florin Road from Tamoshanter Way to Franklin Boulevard through public art, public outreach and youth engagement. The project was funded by a $1.2 million grant from the California Department of Transportation (CalTrans). For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40. The bill [created] huge hurdles for minorities trying to seek protection in this country, said Azadeh Erfani, senior policy analyst with the National Immigrant Justice Center. Black immigration advocates are pleased that a highly-contested bipartisan border deal failed in the U.S. Senate. On Wednesday, the U.S. Senate tanked the Border Security and Combatting Fentanyl Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024, in a 49-50 vote, coming short of the 60 votes needed to pass the legislation. Amy Fischer, advocacy director for the Americas with Amnesty International, told theGrio that she is happy that the cruel policies included in the deal are not moving forward. I think it is disappointing that the reason it failed was more as a result of political dysfunction rather than a stand against the inhumane policies in the bill, she said. Maribel Hernandez Rivera, director of policy and government affairs for border and immigration at the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), told theGrio she felt a sigh of relief that the immigration deal did not go through. Rivera called the deal cruel and argued that it wouldve hurt the most vulnerable people in a way that is unprecedented. Earlier this week, some Senate Republicans said they would vote against the bill, contending that it was not the answer to regulating the U.S. border. Even if the statute passed in the U.S. Senate, House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., called the deal dead on arrival. Johnson issued a statement on social media Monday, stating, We will not pass immigration legislation that further incentivizes illegal immigration, does not reform asylum and parole in a meaningful way. YUMA, ARIZONA DECEMBER 07: An immigrant family from Haiti is taken into custody by a U.S. Border Patrol agent at the U.S.-Mexico border on December 07, 2021 in Yuma, Arizona.(Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) Fischer of Amnesty International said Senate Republicans voted against the border legislation because it wasnt extreme enough and were engaging in political posturing ahead of the election. She said, on the contrary, Senate Democrats did not oppose the legislation because they felt pressured to stand with the Biden-Harris administration. The vote was less about substance and more about politics, Fischer added. But the results are the same, and we are happy that this bill is dead. This defeat comes just days after a bipartisan group of senators, along with the Biden-Harris administration, released the Border Act text to the public, which aimed to ramp up border enforcement, curtail asylum rights for migrants, and grant the Department of Homeland Security authority to partially shut down the border if the daily average of illegal crossings exceeds 5,000 daily, over the course of a week. Azadeh Erfani, senior policy analyst at the National Immigrant Justice Center, told theGrio that the border deal was gut-wrenching and would have greatly impacted Black and brown migrants. The bill [created] huge hurdles for minorities trying to seek protection in this country, she said. Fischer of Amnesty International said the bill was not an effective tool for managing immigration at the U.S. border. It will not do anything to stop the chaos or return human rights to migrants at the border, she argued. Border policies disproportionately impact black and brown migrants, and Fischer believes this bill would have only exacerbated existing barriers. It will force people who are trying to seek safety in the U.S. to be expelled and sent back to dangerous circumstances in their home countries or dangerous conditions in Mexico, she said. We know that racialized groups, particularly Black people [and] indigenous people, are very much at risk in Mexico. In a statement last month, President Joe Biden said that if the border bill is passed, it would be the toughest and fairest set of reforms to secure the border that the U.S. has ever seen. Biden called this deal a win for America. U.S. President Joe Biden speaks during a campaign event at Montgomery County Community College January 5, 2024 in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania. In his first campaign event of the 2024 election season, Biden stated that democracy and fundamental freedoms are under threat if former U.S. President Donald Trump returns to the White House. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images) Vicki Gaubeca, associate director of U.S. immigration and border policy at Human Rights Watch, told theGrio that President Biden is leaning into far-right philosophy by limiting asylum rights for immigrants. Rivera of the ACLU said, Theres nothing fair about sending people back to danger without giving them the opportunity to present their case. She said the bill wouldve stripped migrants of their due process rights and have their day in court if they are denied asylum. They [would] no longer go to a court and say my case was wrongly decided, said Rivera. We know for a fact that there have been many cases where once the case makes it to court, a judge makes a different determination from what the asylum officer made, she added. Many critics argue that the border legislation would have made it harder for some migrants to obtain asylum because immigrants are given a shorter window to meet a higher standard of proof that shows the U.S. is their safest option to escape catastrophic conditions. Gaubeca of Human Rights Watch said the border bill would have made it a lot harder for people seeking asylum. Migrants [wouldve had] less time to present or obtain evidence, she said. Rivera of the ACLU said this policy would have disproportionately impacted Black and brown migrants. A lot of people who are coming here are Black and brown migrants who are fleeing from danger and have no other choice, she said. However, she believes the bill wouldve placed them in even more danger if they were unable to prove that they were in dire need of refuge. Additionally, the legislation wouldve increased enforcement at the border by granting the Department of Homeland Security the authority to hire more personnel. Last month, Biden requested an additional 1,300 border patrol agents, 1,600 asylum officers, and 375 immigration judges. The president also wanted to place more than 100 inspection machines at the border to prevent fentanyl from being smuggled into the U.S. FILE Migrants wait for U.S. authorities, between a barbed-wire barrier and the border fence at the US-Mexico border, as seen from Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, Wednesday, May 10, 2023. The U.S. on May 11 began to deny asylum to migrants who show up at the U.S.-Mexico border without first applying online or seeking protection in a country they passed through, according to a new rule released May 10. (AP Photo/Christian Chavez, File) The bill would have also provided billions of dollars to immigration agencies, including $6.8 billion to Customs and Border Protection, $7.6 billion to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and nearly $4 billion to Citizenship and Immigration Services. Fischer of Amnesty International said that when detained by U.S. immigration agencies, Black and brown migrants face a higher risk of experiencing cruel and unusual conditions. The detention system has been very deadly to racialized people, and under this bill, it will expand beyond what we even saw in the Trump years, she said. Erfani of the National Immigrant Justice Center said the bill would have been a gift to private prison companies. It would really enable ICE to round up people and to put them in detention at a historical level, she said. We should be going forward globally to not incarcerate people on the basis of their nationality. Gaubeca of Human Rights Watch said the now-failed legislation did not address the problems at the border and would not stop immigrants from seeking refuge in the U.S. Its like the definition of insanity. The U.S. has been using deterrence tactics at the border for three decades, and its not working, she said. Gaubeca added, Its time that the U.S. government and Congress change course. Never miss a beat: Get our daily stories straight to your inbox with theGrios newsletter. The post Black immigration advocates have sigh of relief after border bill fails in Senate appeared first on TheGrio. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's latest round of Middle East diplomacy ended on Thursday with a meeting with Israel's war Cabinet, but he leaves the region deprived of a deal for a truce in Gaza that would have allowed for the return of hostages. The top US diplomat, who was on his fifth trip to the Middle East since the war between Israel and Hamas erupted, said at the meeting with Cabinet officials that the focus was on the hostages and "the strong desire" both the US and Israel have "to see them returned to their families." Blinken also informed war Cabinet members Benny Gantz and Gabi Eisenkot - both of whom have held top military posts - about his talks in the region over the past several days, the Israeli broadcaster Kan said in its report on the meeting. His shuttle diplomacy included stops in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar, Israel and the West Bank. But his efforts to secure an agreement between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas were unsuccessful. The tensions between the US and Israeli government were on full display on Wednesday, when Blinken called on Israel to moderate its ground and air campaign against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. He said the massacre Israel suffered at the hands of Hamas and other extremists on October 7 should not be used as a "licence to dehumanize others." But Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed his government's hard line, saying the only way to get the hostages released was to keep up the major military pressure on Hamas. Netanyahu, snubbing any truce-for-hostage deal with Hamas, said he was convinced that a "total victory" over the terrorist organization is possible within a few months. Of around 136 hostages still held by Hamas, the military's public estimate is that at most just over 100 are still alive. But the New York Times and others, citing confidential intelligence assessments, have reported the number of hostages killed is probably higher. A large number of people demonstrated in Israel on Thursday evening, both in favour of and against a possible hostage agreement with the Palestinian Islamist organization Hamas. In Jerusalem, thousands protested against negotiations with Israel's enemies and in favour of a continuation of the Gaza war, Israeli media reported on Thursday evening. At the same time, hundreds of people protested in Tel Aviv in favour of a deal to secure the release of the hostages still being held in the Gaza Strip. According to the media, the demonstrators also blocked roads in Israel's coastal metropolis. In recent weeks, thousands have repeatedly demonstrated in Israel to put pressure on the government to do more to secure the release of people abducted from Israel by Hamas. Demonstrators also accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of prioritizing his political survival over the fate of the hostages. Fighting continues to rage in the Gaza Strip, where the Hamas-controlled health authority said on Thursday another 130 Palestinians were killed in Israeli attacks within 24 hours. Since the beginning of the war on October 7, the number of people killed in the coastal strip has risen to at least 27,840, with another 67,300 injured. The Israeli army reported fresh heavy fighting in the west of the city of Khan Younis in the south of Gaza. It said dozens of terror suspects were in the fighting and dozens more were taken into custody. According to the Gaza health authorities, 14 people were killed in Israeli airstrikes overnight in Rafah, at the southernmost tip of the strip. The UN says more than 1 million people are now living in dire conditions in the city directly on the border with Egypt. The Palestinian Red Crescent ambulance service said on Thursday that one paramedic had been killed and two others injured by Israeli fire. The war was triggered by the worst massacre in Israel's history, in which more than 1,200 people were killed on October 7 at the hands of militants from Gaza. Israel says 228 servicemen and women have been killed since the start of the Israeli ground offensive in Gaza at the end of October. There were renewed rocket alerts in the Israeli border towns with the Gaza Strip on Thursday. Despite the Israeli ground offensive, extremist Palestinians have fired more than 14,500 projectiles at Israel in the past four months, with many of them intercepted. The Israeli army said on Thursday it targeted a commander from Hezbollah's elite al-Radwan Brigade in southern Lebanon. The Israeli army said an Israeli aircraft struck the Commander of the Khiam Region in southern Lebanon in response to a missile launch. The army added that the commander was involved in a number of launches toward the areas of Kiryat Shmona and Metula in northern Israel. The Hezbollah press office told dpa that the strike wounded two of its members without giving their titles, and that one of them is in "serious condition." A Lebanese security source confirmed to dpa that an Israeli drone has directly struck a car in the southern town of Nabatieh which had two people inside it. Tensions have been high along the border since war erupted months ago between Israel and the Palestinian militant organization Hamas in Gaza. According to Hezbollah, which is allied with Hamas, 185 of its fighters have been killed since October 7. Meanwhile, Norway said it will provide financial support to the embattled United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). The relief organization is the backbone of all humanitarian efforts in the Gaza Strip, Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide said Norway is therefore transferring 275 million Norwegian kroner ($25.8 million) for the organization's work for Palestinian refugees. Spain announced at the beginning of the week that it would support the aid organization with a special payment of 3.5 million. Eide, however, made it clear in a statement from his ministry that they were shocked by the accusations against UNRWA employees and expected full transparency. But he said it was wrong to penalize millions of people collectively for the alleged actions of 12 employees. UNRWA had recently warned that it might have to stop all its work within four weeks if promised funds were not paid. More than a dozen countries, including the largest donors, the US and Germany, have suspended payments over allegations that a dozen of the aid organization's approximately 13,000 employees in Gaza were involved in the October 7 attacks on Israel. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was forced to abandon a visit to Gazas border to oversee aid deliveries because Israeli protesters were blocking shipments of food into the territory, according to the Israeli newspaper Haaretz. Mr Blinken has faced fierce criticism from humanitarian groups and European allies in recent days after the US froze funding for UNRWA, the largest aid agency on the ground in Gaza, at a time when hundreds of thousands of Palestinians are facing an escalating hunger crisis and risk of famine . It comes amid reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered his military to prepare for an invasion of Rafah, the last refuge in Gaza, where hundreds of thousands fled to at the orders of the invading army. The secretary of states trip to the Kerem Shalom crossing was reportedly planned so that he could evaluate the passage of much-needed aid into Gaza. But it was abandoned due to the presence of protesters linked to extremist settler groups who have been disrupting aid shipments into the beleaguered territory for several weeks. The protesters have demanded that no food enter Gaza until hostages kidnapped by Hamas during the 7 October attacks are released. Deliveries have also been blocked by the Israeli army, which inspects all aid trucks going into Gaza. A preparatory tour of the crossing by Israeli police, army, foreign ministry representatives and members of Mr Blinkens security detail had taken place ahead of the planned visit, according to Haaretz, which cited several people familiar with the planning. On the day of the tour, however, protesters managed to block nine trucks from entering. When Israeli police couldnt guarantee that they would be able to stop the protesters doing the same during Mr Blinkens visit, the trip was abandoned to avoid embarrassing the secretary of state, according to the report. At a press conference on Wednesday at the US embassy in Jerusalem, Mr Blinken denied that there was a visit planned, telling reporters that there was no planned visit to Kerem Shalom so there was nothing to cancel. The alleged cancellation of the trip further highlights a contradiction in US policy towards the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Mr Blinken has spoken often about the delivery of aid to Palestinians as a top priority, but his administration has been accused by aid groups of worsening the crisis. Hundreds of thousands of people in Gaza are starving as a result of Israels war against Hamas, according to aid agencies on the ground . But an even greater number of Palestinian lives may soon be at risk due to a decision by the US and its allies to freeze funding to UNRWA the United Nations agency responsible for Palestinian refugees following reports that a small number of employees were involved in those attacks. 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)) UNRWA has warned it may run out of money as early as this month, a worst-case scenario that aid groups have warned could cause widespread famine and death . Michael Fakhri, the UN special rapporteur on the right to food, said of the decision: Famine was imminent. Famine is now inevitable. The move also drew condemnation from US allies. The European Unions foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, called the freezing of UNRWA funds disproportionate and dangerous. The wrongdoing of individuals should never lead to the collective punishment of an entire population, he wrote in a blog post . The UNRWA was already struggling to operate effectively in Gaza before the freeze. It received just half of the funds it needed to meet the scale of the humanitarian catastrophe caused by the war. Israeli restrictions on aid deliveries and widespread bombing across the strip have made delivering aid almost impossible, and at least 152 of its staffers have been killed in the bombardment, according to the agency. Other aid agencies have warned that they do not possess the capability to fill the gap left by UNRWA should it halt operations. Today, UNRWA says more than 500,000 people in Gaza are facing catastrophic hunger, and the risk of famine increases every day. That risk has been increased by the decision by Israel to block a significant number of aid trucks from entering Gaza. The UN said that 80 per cent of aid deliveries destined for northern Gaza were blocked by the Israeli army in January . More than 27,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israels offensive in the densely populated territory, most of them women and children, according to the health ministry in Gaza. The war was launched in response to a surprise attack by Hamas militants on 7 October that killed 1,200 people in Israel. Some 250 people were also kidnapped and taken back to Gaza. The Independent has requested comment from the US State Department and the Israeli army. A statewide Blue Alert has been issued for a 42-year-old man suspected of shooting two Blount County sheriff's deputies Thursday night, killing one. And in the hours since, about $80,000 in reward money has been offered for information leading to his arrest. Kenneth Wayne DeHart, of Alcoa, is wanted by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and the Blount County Sheriff's Office on charges of one count of first degree murder, one count of attempted first degree murder and one count of felon in possession of a weapon. During a Friday evening press conference, officials announced that DeHart's brother had been arrested as an accessory after the fact and was being held on a $1 million bond, with a court appearance scheduled for Feb. 12. Police were still searching for Kenneth DeHart at that point. Just before 8:30 p.m. Feb. 8, Deputy Greg McCowan and Deputy Shelby Eggers initiated a traffic stop on an SUV in the 4900 block of Sevierville Road in Maryville, a release from TBI said. The driver, identified as DeHart, would not cooperate and refused to get out of the vehicle. A Taser was deployed with no effect, the release said. At some point during the encounter, DeHart produced a gun and fired shots, striking both deputies. McCowan was fatally wounded; Eggers was shot in the leg and returned fire, Blount County Sheriff James Lee Berrong said in an early-morning press conference Feb. 9. Posted by Blount County Sheriff's Office on Thursday, February 8, 2024 McCowan was transported to an area hospital, where he later died. Eggers was also taken to the hospital, treated and released. Blount County Sheriff's Deputy Greg McCowan, who was shot and killed earlier this evening during a traffic stop, was escorted from Blount Memorial Hospital to the University of Tennessee Forensics Center in Knoxville early this morning by his fellow brothers and sisters in blue. We stand with Deputy McCowans family, friends and colleagues during this absolutely tragic time. Posted by Knoxville Police Department - TN on Friday, February 9, 2024 DeHart drove away from the scene, the release said. Multiple law enforcement agencies are actively searching for DeHart, who was last seen in the 4900 block of Sevierville Road in Maryville. Multiple agencies collaborate to offer rewards By early afternoon Friday, Berrong announced that the reward money being offered is at $80,000 thanks to several pledges from businesses and individuals, including $10,000 from the U.S. Marshals Service, up to $2,500 by TBI and $2,000 by East Tennessee Valley Crime Stoppers. Smith & Wesson CEO Mark Smith is offering a $40,000 reward, Berrong added. Eggers sang the National Anthem at the company's grand opening in Maryville last year. "We are beyond heartbroken by the events of last night in our new hometown community," Smith & Wesson posted on Facebook. "A manhunt is underway, and Smith & Wesson is adding $40,000 to reward money being offered. ... These men and women are the backbone of our community, tirelessly working to ensure our safety and well-being. This is a stark reminder of why we call them heroes, and why they deserve our unwavering support and respect. " Anyone with information concerning DeHart's whereabouts is asked to call the Blount County Sheriff's Office at 865-981-7125 or the TBI at 1-800-TBI-FIND. Liz Kellar is a Tennessee Connect reporter. Email liz.kellar@knoxnews.com. Support strong local journalism by subscribing at knoxnews.com/subscribe. This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Blount County deputy killed, TBI Blue Alert issued for suspect in shooting More than a week after a hangar collapse killed three people and injured nine near the Boise Airport, details have started to emerge on the victims. The investigation continues into what caused the collapse of the partially constructed building, which was set to be a standalone hangar for Jackson Jet Center. Three people were pronounced dead at the scene, with the cause of death for all three listed by the Ada County coroner as traumatic blunt force injuries. Five other people were listed in critical condition following the accident. Authorities have declined to provide additional updates on the status of the victims. Heres what we know about the three people who were killed, as well as information the Idaho Statesman has learned about those who were injured. GoFundMe accounts have been set up for some survivors, and those listed here were verified by the crowdfunding platform as legitimate fundraisers for the collapse victims. The steel structure at the hangar site collapsed. Big D Builders, the Meridian-based contractor working to build the hangar, sent an emailed statement Thursday expressing thanks to the community and also its sympathy. This came a day after a law firm retained by the families of two victims criticized Big D and pledged that justice will be served. We are grateful for doctors, nurses, and associated staff, all clergy, individuals and families around the world that are ministering to the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of each member of our team, the company said in its statement. Big D Builders said it plans to continue to work closely with every individual and their family who have been impacted in this tragic accident to ensure all of their needs are met, including working with funeral homes and government agencies to ensure each individual will be reunited with their family and their community. Three people died in the collapse Mario Sontay Tzi and Mariano Alex Coc Och Coc Och, 24, and Sontay Tzi, 32, both natives of Carcha, Guatemala, were living in Nampa when the project accident occurred. Serna & Associates, a law firm representing their families, said the two men died horribly, knowing they were about to die at such a young age, crushed by tons of metal. The law firm said it will seek to obtain the findings of local, state and federal authorities and also hopes to bring its own experts and engineers to the scene to make determinations about the cause of the collapse, according to a release from Serna on Wednesday. We will hold every single entity who contributed to this horrific accident responsible for their actions and will seek justice on behalf of all of those who grieve today, Serna said in the release. Craig Durrant Durrant, 59, of Boise, was one of the co-founders of Big D Builders. Durrant incorporated Big D Builders in Idaho in 1996 alongside his brothers Russell, Dennis and Kevin Durrant. The Durrant family has started multiple businesses in Idaho, including Big D Ranch in Meridian. The family has deep roots in the Treasure Valley, according to the Big D Builders website. Clarence Henry Durrant moved the family from Provo, Utah, to Meridian in 1946 and kicked off the Big D brand in 1954 when he entered the egg producing business by purchasing 800 chicks. Words cannot describe our pain and sorrow since Wednesday evening, an emailed statement written on behalf of Big D Builders read. We have lost family members and valued employees who were close personal friends. We have also had colleagues experience significant injuries. Behind our company name is a small, Idaho-grown, family-owned business, and we are grieving deeply with our community. Nine people were injured Four of the names of the nine survivors have been at least partially made public through fundraising efforts. Pedro Lopez Jr. Lopez was among those critically injured in the hangar collapse, according to a verified GoFundMe page created by his wife, Alyssa Joyner. Joyner said the funds raised would go toward meeting the many needs arising for him and his family during this time. Lopez successfully underwent one surgery and was scheduled for a second one, Joyner posted on Facebook. She told the Idaho Statesman in a message that her husband was not ready to talk publicly about the collapse, saying it was still hard for him at the moment. Pedro Lopez Jr. was among those injured in the Boise hangar collapse. Jose A verified GoFundMe fundraiser said a man named Jose, whose last name was not included, was another of the critically injured victims. The fundraising page, set up by Joses niece, said Jose is a husband and father of three children between the ages of 15 and 18. He is a very hardworking blue-collar man and cherished by all his family and friends, according to the GoFundMe. Jose is such an amazing soul, and we cannot be more devastated by unfortunate circumstances. The fundraiser is intended to give his wife and children some peace of mind while they deal with this unfortunate tragedy, the page said. Joses family members are hopeful he can pull through but also aware that his condition could take a turn for the worst at any moment, the page said. The family plans to put all donations toward food, gas and any unexpected expenses that arise from his hospitalization, according to the page. The GoFundMe page said Jose has a wife and three children. Alejandro Lopez Lopez, of Nampa, created a GoFundMe account for himself, saying he was another collapse victim. This fund is being organized to contribute to the many needs arising for me and my family during this time, Lopez posted on the page. Alejandro Lopez was injured in the Boise hangar collapse. Brian Lopez Garcia A GoFundMe was set up for Lopez Garcia by a friend, Brayan Sanchez Maaz. This fund is being organized to raise money to contribute to the many needs arising for him and his family during this time, according to the GoFundMe description. Bryan Lopez Garcia was injured in the Boise hangar collapse. Ukrainian border guards have detained a group of 40 individuals attempting to illegally cross the border with Hungary, the State Border Guard Service reported on Feb. 8. According to the message, officers stopped two minibuses near the border with Hungary. The vehicles were carrying 38 people, not including the drivers themselves. Military-aged male Ukrainian citizens are prohibited from leaving the country under martial law. Read also: President Biden says Trump threatened Republicans if they supported border bill containing Ukraine aid This is the largest group of border violators detained during the full-scale [Russian] invasion, the report said. Read also: Ukraine and Israel aid caught in crossfire of U.S. border dispute The group included men from 11 Ukrainian oblasts. Read also: Nepal arrests ten individuals involved in illegal recruitment for Russian army The organizers of this illegal scheme were planning to charge their clients between $4,500 and $8,500 for the crossing. The investigation into the details of the scheme is ongoing, border officials added. 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 Texas Republican state House ads touting the border as a central election issue. Clockwise, from top left: Mark LaHood, challenger for House District 121; Joanne Shofner, challenger for House District 11; Chris Spencer, challenger for House District 1; and Gary VanDeaver, House District 1 incumbent. Credit: Campaign videos Turn on the TV in northeast Texas, and it would be hard to guess it has become a battleground in the GOP war over school vouchers. State Rep. Gary VanDeaver of New Boston one of nine Republicans that Gov. Greg Abbott is trying to unseat over their opposition to vouchers is running an ad bragging about boosting border security funding as a House budget writer. His Abbott-backed challenger, Chris Spencer, is airing a spot promising to work with former President Donald Trump to make our Texas border secure again. And another Abbott-endorsed challenger in the region, Joanne Shofner, is running a commercial that pitches her as a true border hawk. Those ads, exclusively about the border, are underscoring a key dynamic in Texas extraordinary primary season: Despite all the hubbub about vouchers and Ken Paxtons impeachment its still about the border, stupid. Immigration is dominating the primaries far more than anything else, overshadowing the issues that initially set the stage last year for a high-octane primary. Abbott is endeavoring to unseat the House Republicans who joined Democrats to kill his school voucher plan, while Attorney General Ken Paxton set out to defeat the House Republicans who voted to impeach him last May. In a recognition of the dominance of border concerns, some vulnerable House Republicans are now trying to tap into those concerns to explain their opposition to school vouchers. Last year I stopped a bill that would have handed out school vouchers your tax dollars to illegal immigrants, VanDeaver says to the camera in a new commercial. Rep. Glenn Rogers, R-Graford, is also running a TV ad that accuses his opponent, Mike Olcott, of supporting a voucher program that gives taxpayer dollars to illegal immigrants. It is an apparent reference to the lack of citizenship requirements for the recipients of the proposed initiative last year. Pro-voucher groups say the argument reeks of desperation. Abbotts chief strategist, Dave Carney, said Friday on X, formerly known as Twitter, that the talking point was nonsense and suggested his side already has a counterargument. With less than a month until the primary, Abbott has kept the border center stage, visiting Eagle Pass on Thursday with nearly two dozen House Republicans who he has endorsed for reelection. While his office promised a border security announcement, they had no such announcement and Abbott said he was there to applaud the lawmakers for their help in passing his border agenda. The wire that you see preventing illegal entry the soldiers that you see, the Texas Department of Public Safety that you see none of that would be here but for the people who stand with me today, Abbott said. Abbott has been battling the Biden administration in court to install razor wire at a park in Eagle Pass along the border. Abbott has spent the past month crisscrossing the state to stump for House incumbents and challengers he has endorsed in the wake of the defeat of his school voucher plan. And while he mentions the plan briefly in his stump speeches, it is often his national-headline-making efforts on the border that get more words and crowd reaction. The House GOP does not have many political vulnerabilities on the border given that they virtually all backed Abbotts proposals. But pro-voucher groups are still seizing on the issue as a means to an end. The Family Empowerment Coalition PAC recently co-opted the issue in a wave of digital ads against anti-voucher House Republicans. In the spots, a narrator introduces the incumbent and says they brag he helped close the border, even though he didnt. Thats why Greg Abbott didnt endorse him, the narrator says. One of the ads targets, Rep. DeWayne Burns of Cleburne, recently expressed frustration with the tactic in a Facebook post, saying these FECPAC characters created an attack ad against me using an A.I. generated voice without any sources or citations. Leo Linbeck, one of the PACs leaders, said the strategy is simple: They are playing to win, and that means messaging against incumbents beyond just one issue. For people who oppose us on school choice, we will use the issues that are most important to voters to communicate our preference, Linbeck said. Another pro-voucher group a national PAC, the School Freedom Fund is leveraging multiple issues beyond education. It has even launched a TV ad against House Speaker Dade Phelan, R-Beaumont, touting his primary challengers endorsement from former President Donald Trump. Phelan declined to stake out a personal position throughout the voucher fight last year. The polling was clear going into primary season: For Republican primary voters, school vouchers may be popular but not nearly as popular or top of mind as securing the border. The border regularly ranks as primary voters top concern often by a wide margin and they overwhelmingly back specific proposals. A University of Houston poll released Tuesday found that Republican primary voters support tax-funded school vouchers to all parents 64% to 29%. But when it came to empowering state authorities to arrest undocumented immigrants a new Texas law the support widened to a gaping 89% to 9%. With a Republican primary voter, you cant go wrong with stressing the border, said Mark Jones, a political science professor at UH involved in the polling. They literally all support the same position. The ads in northeast Texas are not an outlier. In Central Texas, the first House Republican who got an Abbott-backed challenger, Rep. Hugh Shine of Temple, is also running a TV ad solely about the border, boasting about how he passed the strongest border security bill in the nation. That is a reference to Senate Bill 4, which Abbott signed into law last month. It allows Texas law enforcement authorities to arrest undocumented immigrants anywhere in the state and has already drawn a constitutional challenge from the Biden administration. Every House Republican voted for it, as well as for bills to ramp up state funding for a border wall and to increase penalties for smuggling immigrants or operating a stash house. It all underscores a great irony for Abbott: As he kept lawmakers in Austin last year for five sessions trying to pass school vouchers, he also tasked them with tough border measures that they are arming themselves with in their reelection campaigns. To be sure, school vouchers and Paxtons impeachment are still coming up in primaries at forums, in mailers and even some TV ads. The most striking example came earlier this week, when Phelanreleased a commercial addressing Paxtons impeachment head-on, saying Vengeful Paxton is the only reason Trump has endorsed Phelans primary challenger. But Phelan has been airing TV ads in his southeast Texas district for over two months, and the earliest ones were exclusively about the Houses border efforts. For other TV ads, if they even mention school vouchers, the reference is glancing. Backed by Greg Abbott and Ted Cruz, LaHood is running to close down our border, a narrator says, and protect our kids from woke indoctrination. Disclosure: Facebook and University of Houston have been financial supporters of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune's journalism. Find a complete list of them here. We cant wait to welcome you to downtown Austin Sept. 5-7 for the 2024 Texas Tribune Festival! Join us at Texas breakout politics and policy event as we dig into the 2024 elections, state and national politics, the state of democracy, and so much more. 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